https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-01-05.pdf 29e5fae67e485b52088f8e0141af45f4 PDF Text Text Adult drug court fights rising trends Resolutions should include decisive action TK girls win battle of winless teams See Story on Page 3 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 13 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 1 NEWS BRIEFS Sweet Grass in showcase tonight Sweet Grass will headline the first Music Showcase of 2012 from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 5, at Thomas Jefferson Hall, 328 S. Jefferson St., Hastings. Sweet Grass is a new band but its members are not new to the Hastings music scene. Jim Metzger of Hastings plays banjo. Orville Harrington of Hastings plays mandolin, Dobro and provides lead vocals. Ken Moore of Middleville plays guitar and Dobro, and provides lead vocals. Doug Smith of Hastings plays guitar and sings lead vocals. Tom Freridge of Hastings plays bass guitar and sings. Sweet Grass mixes a traditional uptempo bluegrass sound with gospel, country and folk music. Steve Reid hosts the Music Showcase on the first and third Thursday of each month. Admission is free but donations will be taken. Elks Hoop Shoot returns Saturday Hastings Elks Lodge 1965 will host its annual youth basketball Hoop Shoot Saturday, Jan. 7, at the Hastings Middle School main gym. Registration begins at 12:45, and the free throw shooting will begin at 1 p.m. The event is open to the public. All boys and girls ages 8 to 13 are eligible. Contestants must be 8 years old by April 1, and must not turn 14 by same date. Trophies will be awarded to all first, second and third place winners in each age group. The Elks will be serving free hot dogs and drinks to all contestants. Call Mike McLean with any questions at 269-948-9561. Freeport Over 50 group to meet Wednesday Anyone 50 or more years old is invited to meet for a noon potluck at the community building in Freeport Wednesday, Jan. 11. The community building is at the west end of Main Street, behind the fire barn. Entertainment will be provided by the musical group Brush Ridge, which includes Bill Barcroft, Lori Barcroft, Ken Moore and Tom Freridge. “There are no charges, dues or fees — just a group of seniors getting together for a good time and good food,” said Marge Barcroft, one of the organizers. “So bring your friends and join us. People come from a 15-mile-plus radius of Freeport. The more, the merrier. Guests should bring a dish to pass, serving spoon and their own table service. Tea and coffee will be furnished. Gerry and Lou Allen will be hosts for the day. Keep your friends and relatives INFORMED! Send them The BANNER To subscribe, call us at... 269-945-9554 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, January 5, 2012 County leadership remains same ... so do challenges for 2012 by Doug VanderLaan Editor Though it elected to maintain its leadership team for 2012 at its organizational meeting on Tuesday, the Barry County Board of Commissioners will be unable to change the one issue that has challenged its management and dominated its direction in the year just past: financial crisis. “If last year was considered a tropical storm, this year could be a hurricane,” observed newly re-elected Vice Chair Ben Geiger following the organizational meeting and first committee of the whole meeting of the new year. “We made $700,000 in cuts to cover last year’s budget deficit, and this year we’re looking at a deficit that could be as high as $1.2 million.” Commissioners chose the 24-year-old Geiger, who was elected in 2010 to replace Mike Callton, by unanimous vote to back up Craig Stolsonburg, who was also provided another one-year term as commission chair by unanimous consent. Stolsonburg, who is beginning his fourth year on the commission, also considers the financial challenge to be a focal point of the new year. “I think it’s important that we continue to be fiscally responsible and conservative, especially during these tough economic times,” said Stolsonburg, following the organizational meeting. “I’d like to help keep a county where jobs can easily be created and people can work freely and not be worried about government holding them back.” Finances led the agenda of the subsequent committee of the whole meeting when the commission considered a recommendation to amend its 2012 budget in order to transfer $5,880 from an extradition fund to the budget of the prosecuting attorney’s office. County Prosecutor Tom Evans asked the commission to amend its approved budget for extraditions to zero and to transfer the full $5,880 to his office in order to meet operating budget items not addressed in the 2012 budget. In response to Geiger’s request that Evans elaborate on his proposal to eliminate funds allocated to extraditions, Evans pointed out that in the years previous to his becoming prosecutor there had been no extraditions, but, since they were instituted, his office is reducing their expense by working with Craig Stolsonburg is elected by his fellow commissioners Tuesday to another term as chair of the Barry County Board of Commissioners. police departments who transport. “I can’t say that extraditions won’t go down, but if we get in a pinch, we do have just a little bit in our drug forfeiture funds that we might use.” Evans stated that the prosecution of some offenses may not be pursued because of his request to eliminate the extradition budget but that, in the case of major crimes, the drug forfeiture fund would be tapped. “If you have a life offense or a major crime, you have an obligation to the people,” challenged Commissioner Don Nevins. “Absolutely,” responded Evans, “I think we could drag a little out of the drug forfeiture fund if we have a big [case], but we won’t be doing that, most likely, as frequently.” Evans’ request Tuesday followed his Dec. 20 appearance before the commission when he contested cuts made in the 2012 budget and received a stern response and pointed remarks from commissioners. Tuesday’s encounter was very different. “I don’t know if I was always the most courteous during our negotiations, and I apologize for that,” said Evans in opening his budget adjustment remarks Tuesday. “I can’t say that I didn’t disagree with some decisions, but I have to say that generally the board does a great job, and, even when I do disagree with you, I know you try your best and you’re all good people. “I hope to work with you in the next year and do good things like we have in the past. You’ll always see the statesmanship and diplomacy that you’ve come to expect from our office.” The commission recommended by unanimous consent to move Evans’ proposal to the Jan. 10 board meeting for approval. During its organization meeting, the board also approved: • Rules and procedures for board meetings, including the appointment of individual commissioners to 45 standing committees and related boards. • The board meeting schedule that continues to be the second and fourth Tuesday of each month beginning at 9 a.m. The board will meet on Wednesday, Dec. 26, to accommodate the observance of Christmas. In action taken during the subsequent committee of the whole meeting, the board recommended for action at the Jan. 10 meeting the following: • Approval of the 2012 Barry County Emergency Action Guidelines, a document to be used and referenced by emergency representatives during large-scale disasters. • Approval to authorize an administrative agreement with Van Buren County for the payment of money issued through the Homeland Security grant. Emergency Management Districts in Michigan include multiple counties, with one being assigned fiduciary agent for the distribution of grant money. Barry County is expected to receive grant funding for exercises, drills and training. • Approval of Commissioner Joe Lyons as the board’s representative to the six-member County Tax Allocation Board. The board annually determines the allocation of seven mills between townships, the Barry Intermediate School District and Barry County. New court program expected to have ‘swift and sure’ results by David DeDecker Staff Writer Barry County has received a $263,000 grant to launch the Swift and Sure Sanctions Pilot Program, which works similar to the Barry County Drug Court. The program is completely state funded. The Barry County Board of Commissioners approved the program and will front the money, then be reimbursed by the state. The grant is renewable on an annual basis. Money will also come into the county through the diverted felons fund for every person kept in community-based incarceration programs. Under the program, violations of courtmandated conditions are dealt with in a “swift and sure” manner. The violator is brought into court immediately and given a sanction, typically jail time. For three months, participants will be randomly drug-screened three times a week and are required to meet with a case worker once a week, and meet weekly with Barry County Circuit Court Judge Amy McDowell. Over time, the number of meetings and screenings is expected to diminish with compliance. The grant funding includes two new job positions — an administrative assistant and a case worker. These job positions have already been posted. “What we are doing with this program is essentially keeping some people out of prison who would ordinarily be going there,” said McDowell. “Much like what we do with drug court, but these are other types of offenses. We don’t have a lot of the serious, serious offenses in Barry County. We are a relatively safe community, of which we should be very proud. We will be looking at Tier 2 offenders more than the Tier 1s.” Tier 1 offenders include the crimes of homicide, robbery, criminal sexual conduct, arson, assault, burglary and weapons offenses. Tier 2 includes larceny, fraud, forgery, embezzlement, malicious destruction of property and drunk- or drugged-driving offenses. “What we are doing with this program is essentially keeping some people out of prison who would ordinarily be going there. Much like what we do with drug court, but these are other types of offenses. We don’t have a lot of the serious, serious offenses in Barry County. We are a relatively safe community, of which we should be very proud.” Barry County Circuit Court Judge Amy McDowell. Another group eligible for the program includes people unsuccessful on probation and needing more intensive supervision. According to McDowell, the program and judge will be looking at sentencing guidelines and will make a decision whether to keep the defendant here or send them to prison. The goal is to treat violators here versus putting them in a place surrounded by hardened criminals, so they come back into the community a predictably worse criminal and commit more crimes. “That’s what we are looking to stop,” said See COURT PROGRAM, pg. 3 Barry County’s official first born of 2012 is Kyron Eli Richardson, pictured here with parents Brianna Wescott and Andrew Richardson. New Year’s baby arrives 1-2-12 The first baby of 2012 born at Pennock Hospital is Kyron Eli Richardson. Kyron, who arrived Monday, Jan. 2, at 9:55 a.m., is the official Banner Baby Contest winner and will receive gifts from area merchants. Born to Brianna Wescott and Andrew Richardson, Kyron weighed in at eight pounds, one ounce and measured 20 inches long. He was delivered by Dr. Laura Kota. “We heard the name on television or something and really liked it,” said Wescott. “Contractions started the night before, and we went to the hospital around 2:30 in the morning. The baby was born after about 30 to 40 minutes of pushing.” The family is doing well and returned home the following afternoon. Wescott is a 2003 graduate of Hastings High School, and Richardson a 2004 graduate. Contest gifts include a $100 gift certificate from Women’s Health First, PC; a vaporizer from Bosley Pharmacy; gift certificates from Barlow Florist, Penn-Nook Gift Shop and McDonald’s of Hastings; and a photo package from Printing Plus. �Page 2 — Thursday, January 5, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Estimated 1,500 celebrate New Year’s Eve downtown New Year’s Eve celebrants keep their eyes on the ball as they count down to the new year. The success of the annual New Year’s Eve ball drop and family festival in downtown Hastings brought even more attention this year as the front page of the Detroit Free Press highlighted the event in its review of New Year’s Eve traditions around the state. “We had 1,500 people, by some estimates, throughout the evening,” reported Carl Schoessel, event committee member, “and it seemed like everything went well. “The ball came down on time, the fireworks went up on time and everybody ‘oohed’ and ‘aahed.’” In addition to the headline ball drop which ushered in 2012 at midnight, the third annual event also included live and recorded music, dancing, ice sculptures, party favors, face painting and hot chocolate. The celebration was sponsored by the City of Hastings and its Downtown Development Authority as well as major sponsors Bosley Pharmacy, Flexfab International, Hastings City Bank and Hastings Fiberglass. “It was all bigger and better,” summed up Schoessel. The Thornapple Jazz Orchestra plays “Auld Lang Syne.” This mother and daughter duo, Ellie ( left) and Stacy Youngs, sport festive glasses. Students from Step ‘n Time dance studio in Nashville and members of the Hastings High School Dance Team perform New Year’s Eve. This swan is just one of the ice sculptures lending a festive, wintery atmosphere to the New Year celebration in downtown Hastings. A huge crowd fills the street near the intersection of State and Jefferson in downtown Hastings to watch the ball drop and usher in 2012. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 5, 2012 — Page 3 COURT PROGRAM, continued from page 1 Barry County Circuit Court Judge Amy McDowell and Jeff Westra, program director for the adult circuit and district drug courts, will start a new community-based program. McDowell. A steering committee will be developed to set the criteria and parameters for the program. The committee will include the trial court administrator, deputy court administrator, sheriff’s representative, representative defense attorney, a community corrections representative and a local department of corrections representative. McDowell will not serve on a committee, she said, remaining separate and objective when participants come before the bench. An eligibility committee, to recommend the program’s participants, will also be formed. The committee will screen applicants for the program. Many of the steering committee members will serve on the eligibility committee, as well. The committee will look at the person’s background and attitude before determining eligibility. “I would want to know about their history, No. 1,” said Jeff Westra, program director for the adult circuit and district drug courts. “I would want to know what their motivations are at this particular phase. I will look at the lengths of clean time they have had in the past, if they had a drug offense. We will review criminal histories such as assaults and any criminal sexual conduct in their background. I would need to get a feel for where they are with any sense of remorse or penitence for what they have done.” “Many have significant trauma issues,” added McDowell. “A lot of times that drives the other ongoing issues. Substance abuse is underlying many of the offenses we are seeing. “If they had something in their past which prohibited them from being in drug court, then we may take a drinking/drug driving offense into this new program.” Violators can participate in either drug court or the new Swift and Sure program, but can not both. “A lot of the treatment will still be the same,” said McDowell. “The community resources we already have available in Barry County are a big advantage. The county will not be spending extra funds. We have an anger management group, individual counseling, AA and NA, cognitive behavioral therapy, a thinking matters group and a commitment to change group, plus a dual diagnosis group. So, we do have quite a few programs in place right now to address the issues.” Dual diagnosis identifies people who have a mental health diagnosis and a substance abuse issue. “Historically, there were not a lot of places which would treat someone with a dual diagnosis,” said McDowell. “The person needed a diagnosis for one or the other, or they could not get help.” “I will look at the lengths of clean time they have had in the past, if they had a drug offense. We will review criminal histories such as assaults and any criminal sexual conduct in their background. I would need to get a feel for where they are with any sense of remorse or penitence for what they have done.” Jeff Westra, program director for the adult circuit and district drug courts Part of the program will be to build a healthy support system around the participants, she said. The program will encourage a social network different from the past — an environment that got them into trouble. The real goal, McDowell said, is to supply appropriate treatment, assistance with education and employment and put all the components together to help people be successful and stay out of jail. “I was excited to see other programs coming up like the new GED program, which we can make a condition of probation,” said McDowell. “That should help with employment. A lot of this makes people feel positive and gives them some self-esteem. There is also the KCC welding program of which we could take advantage. Some people want to find a skill or trade and are not interested in traditional education. I think the new programs fit really well with what we are trying to do here.” Harden named Kiwanis Student of the Month Adult drug court continues success despite rising trends by David DeDecker Staff Writer A recent internal statistical review of Barry County Adult Drug Court shows the program has enrolled 409 individuals and discharged 344 over the past 10 years. The community-based program was started by the Barry County Unified Trial Courts as a method to reduce recidivism with substanceabuse-related crimes. Started as a pilot for the state, the Barry County program has established itself as one of the most successful drug courts in Michigan for both process and outcome. Currently, 65 active participants are in the program. Sixty-six percent, or 218 people, have successfully completed the program. Of the 344 discharged, 257 were men and 87 women; 118 participants were terminated from the program due to violations of some sort. According to the report, individuals are typically released from incarceration into the same “using” environment, and most are not changing their “people, places, and things.” Drug Court encourages clients to make choice changes and assists in maintaining a sober lifestyle. Over the past 10 years, according to the report, the Barry County Drug Court has seen an average of two meth addicts per year. Currently, 17 meth-addicted individuals are enrolled in drug court. Drug court recommends taking several steps to help individuals be successful in their recovery, reducing the burden on taxpayers and community. Those steps include being placed into services at the highest assessment level possible, early referrals to residential treatment, incentives to reach the first 30 days of sobriety, encouragement to change their “using” environment, conducting more home calls and increasing random testing. In Barry County, as well as nationwide, methamphetamine abuse has increased considerably. Methamphetamine, commonly referred to as meth, has presented many difficulties due to its devastating nature, the burden it places on society and the problems it creates within the court system. Reportedly, gains were made in combating meth addiction, for a brief time, due to controls placed on the purchase of components used in the chemical process of cooking the drug. But, new methods of creating the drug have contributed to the recent rise in addiction rates. Addicts are cooking meth in suitcases, car trunks and in motel rooms. The 2011 report showed that even though there are electronic tracking systems for the purchase of meth components, it only helps deter the more brazen offenders. Many meth addicts have families and friends buying components on a regular basis, such as pseudoephedrine-containing medications. A lucrative market for components also exists, and addicts pay numerous at-large people to buy ingredients for them. According to the report, if a person has 10 people who will buy three boxes each, that addict now has 30 boxes of medication per month to convert to meth. The report recommended that pseudoephedrine become a Schedule 2 medication, in order for the rise of meth abuse to stop. Meth offenses also carry higher penalties and often mean presumed prison sentences. In 2008 to 2009, Barry County saw seven presumptive prison offenders, one of whom did not receive prison time. In 2009 and 2010, the number of offenders with presumptive guidelines rose to 26, a 400 percent increase. Since the inception of the Barry County Office of Community Corrections and Adult Drug Court, local prison commitment rates have fallen from 21 percent to 14 percent. The current Michigan average is 23 percent. Each person diverted from prison represents a savings of $34,600 to the State of Michigan. Through the local courts and programs, 19 people who were presumed to go to prison were diverted and saved the state $646,000 in incarceration costs (not including cost of courts, police, health department and treatment). Reportedly, if only three high-risk cases are diverted from prison by Barry County to community sentences, the adult drug court is paid for itself. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency has called prescription pain relievers (opiates) the “gateway drug to heroin addiction, especially among the young.” Heroin has been rated by the British Medical Journal as the most addictive and harmful drug. Heroin is being used in Barry County. The 2011 report showed that even though there are electronic tracking systems for the purchase of meth components, it only helps deter the more brazen offenders. Many meth addicts have families and friends buying components on a regular basis, such as pseudoephedrine-containing medications. A lucrative market for components also exists, and addicts pay numerous at-large people to buy ingredients for them. According to the report, if a person has 10 people who will buy three boxes each, that addict now has 30 boxes of medication per month to convert to meth. With a majority of drugs, the drug court sees a success rate of 60 to 70 percent. Heroin has a 20 percent success rate and opiates (in a pill form) a 50 percent rate. The report shows most opiate users are relapsing within 30 days of being released from jail, with an average of 12 days post-jail time. Whether a long or short jail term, the percentage of relapse remains the same. The report states addicts are also tested for drugs after release, and despite knowing they would be caught using, they used anyway. One hundred percent of the people tested blamed test inaccuracy for the positive indication or tried to tamper or dilute their urine samples. Each person diverted from prison represents a savings of $34,600 to the State of Michigan. Through the local courts and programs, 19 people who were presumed to go to prison were diverted and saved the state $646,000 in incarceration costs (not including cost of courts, police, health department and treatment). Reportedly, if only three high-risk cases are diverted from prison by Barry County to community sentences, the adult drug court is paid for itself. Female drug court participants are 7 percent less likely to be successful, compared to male participants. Contributing to the rate of success is the drug of choice for females; women have a higher rate of methamphetamine, cocaine, opiate and heroin addictions, compared to men. More men in the drug court program are addicted to alcohol and marijuana. In the overall population, women are less likely to be involved in illicit drug use, but those who are tend to be involved in higherrisk addictions. The lower success rate of women in the drug court program, according to the analysis, may be due to higher-risk drugs used by females, depression, traumatic issues such as sexual abuse and domestic violence, limited availability of female resources while incarcerated and lack of female-specific programs. To address the need for more female-specific programming, a coordinated effort between the office of community correction and Barry County Community Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services will begin in the next year. Group and individual cognitive services will be available in jail, contingent on a grant from the Michigan Office of Community Alternatives. In its conclusion, the 2011 analysis states, “All trends and key indicators show that the higher-risk SGL [sentencing guidelines] are on the rise ... Barry County needs to stand ready to address these problems with ‘evidence-based practices’ designed to keep the community safe and keep the costs of taxpayers low. Additionally, measures to intercede in the criminal process, specifically when it relates to controlled substances, to assist individuals early on should be developed and maintained. In other words, stop the offender from abusing substances early on and, in theory, the courts won’t have to deal with them at the high SGL ranges.” Snow Dough 24 Month Loan 3.99% Interest 8.00% APR* Kelsey Harden (right) is the November student of the month for Hastings Kiwanis. Harden is shown with her mother Kim Harden. Kelsey Harden, a junior at Hastings High School, has been named Kiwanis Student of the Month for November. A member of Kiwanis affiliate, the HHS Key Club, Harden said one of her favorite Key Club activities is spending time packing backpack meals for low-income children to take home over the weekends. “The backpack meals make a direct impact on kids lives,” said Harden. “Seeing the excitement in people’s eyes makes me want to serve in more positive ways to help improve people’s lives.” Harden donated her $50 award for being named Kiwanis Student of the Month to Green Gables Haven in Hastings. *Annual percentage rate. Subject to credit review and approval. Rates subject to change. A Hastings City Bank checking account with direct deposit and automatic loan payment is required to obtain this rate. Offer is available only on new Hastings City Bank loans. This is a personal unsecured loan. Processing fee is $200. Example: a $5,000 loan at 8.00% APR for 24 months would have a monthly payment of $217.09. Other rates and terms available. 77564993 1-888-422-2280 �Page 4 — Thursday, January 5, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Resolutions should include decisive action Someone once said that snow brings the magic closer to the surface, and last week did bring the magic of the new season to Barry County. This pond setting reflects the tranquility of an early county morning last week when one of our staff members began his workday. Do you have a photo to share? We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by our readers or our staff members that represents the beauty of Barry County. We’ll select a photograph for publication each week. Send a photo to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Do you know? The milk bottles in this photo appear to read “Highland’s Dairy.” Can you tell us anything about the photo — who is pictured? Why the photo was taken? When? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that were separated from the original story (if a story actually ran) that have no dates, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in these photos and provide a little more information about the events. If you can help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@j-adgraphics.com, or call 269-945-9554. Last week’s photo of two people handling a mail bag was identified by Gerald Sifton of Woodland. The woman pictured was his mother, Norma Sifton, then-postmaster in Woodland. The man was Dale Kloss, a driver for the Woodland and Lake Odessa post offices. Gerald Sifton’s infor- Have you mation helped direct staff to the original 1950 story, part of which is printed on page 5 of this issue. Continued on next page met? My name: My niece couldn’t pronounce it as a child. My brother’s “Silly Aunt Marilyn” became “Sam.” It took me two months after I got married to learn how to spell my last name. If I won the lottery: I’d share. My favorite teacher: My high school teacher, Miss Kimball because she tried so hard to teach me proper English. She believed in me. Best advice I ever received: Be true to yourself. When I grow up I want to be: Me. Because I can look in the mirror and see a fat old broad and say, ‘I still like you!’ The person I admire the most: My husband, Ronald, for the way he fought back from his health problems. The book I’d recommend: The Bible, tops, but then anything written by Nora Roberts, Fern Michaels or Debbie McComber. Greatest gift I ever received: My kids. If I could change one thing: I’d give the president and Congress some sense, I’d make them live on a budget like I have to do. Favorite cartoon character: Hagar the Horrible because he seems like such an old reprobate. And, then, Maxine. Greatest song ever written: I could give you 50. ‘Amazing Grace,’ ‘O, Holy Night’ and ‘In the Garden’ would be the top three. The greatest thing about Barry County: My friends at the senior center and at the little restaurant I go to. People are so friendly. Best job I never had: Truckdriver. I think most people are glad to see 2011 come to an end and are looking forward to better things for the new year. Every year, most of us talk about, or at least think about, setting some goals or resolutions for the coming year. Rather than making a long list that you have no intention of fulfilling, why not set one or two goals that you might be able to live up to over the next 12 months? The most popular resolutions seem to be about losing weight or taking more time off or visiting a friend or relative. But many of us fall short of our achievements. Experts say the first step should be to write down your goals and review them regularly so you can monitor progress. Most of us probably could stand to lose a few pounds, but simply looking for a diet to solve the problem won’t get the job done. To really lose weight and keep it off, you have to adopt, to some extent, a new lifestyle of eating habits and get some regular exercise. That takes dedication and follow-through all year long — not just next week or until the end of the month. Health care professionals say Michigan residents grew fatter than ever during the past year. The obesity rate for the state widened to 31.7 percent in 2011, from 30.3 percent in 2010 and 26.2 five years ago, according to the annual America’s Health Rankings report. More than twice the number of the state’s adults, 1.6 million, are obese, compared to the 745,000 a decade ago. The report went on to say that more than one in 10 of the state’s citizens have diabetes, a chronic condition directly liked to obesity. That’s about 761,000 people, which is considered around twice the rate of 1996 results, also contributing to asthma, high blood pressure, cancer, kidney and heart disease. The Michigan Department of Community Health is preparing a statewide campaign to raise the awareness of this health crisis. So, for anyone thinking about getting his or her health back on track, good luck — living healthier is in your best interest. For the new year, my concern will be focusing on our economic health. According to George Erickcek, senior analyst at the W.E. Upjohn Institute, West Michigan added more jobs than expected in 2011, and further gains are expected in 2012. Erickcek estimates that goods-producing jobs will grow 1.4 percent in 2012. Government employment will continue to decline, but overall growth will result in a 1.1 percent employment gain. That’s good news for West Michigan. In Barry County, local employers continue to show steady growth and continued What do you employment gains. In Michigan, Gov. Rick Snyder pushed through a new state tax code that reduces the tax burden on corporations by roughly $1.5 billion, making the state more competitive. According to the Michigan Economic Development Council, 2011 was the first year since 2000 that Michigan showed any substantial job growth. So, to continue this growth, the state has resolved to change the business climate so that Michigan will continue to lead the nation in job growth in the future. Whether its personal health or the state’s economic stability, we should be prepared to do whatever is necessary to keep ourselves and our state on track so that by the end of the year, we can look back on 2012 as one of the best in recent memory. As a nation, if we expect to see any real gains in the coming years, we must resolve to deal with the real issues that plague our country’s economic well being with a plan to pay it forward by leaving our communities at least as well off as we remembered them. Based on recent Gallup polls, more Americans disapprove with President Barack Obama’s job performance than approve. Gallup reports President Obama’s 43 percent average job approval rating last month ranks as one of the lowest for an elected president in November of his third year in office. Only Jimmy Carter had a lower rating, at 40 percent. But Carter’s rating surged in late November 1979 because of a rally in support after the onset of the Iranian Hostage Crisis, and he averaged above 50 percent in December. All recently elected presidents were at or above 50 percent in December of their third year in office. Yet, both parties remain obsessed with issues that, according to Gallup polls, don’t rank as high, such as the environment, immigration, abortion, same-sex marriage these are issues that have become “wedge” issues used by both parties to distract our attention rather than to provide focus on things that really matter to most Americans. We should add to our list of resolutions a way of finding common ground on issues so that both parties can focus in a unified fashion on areas that concern most Americans — the national debt, jobs and the economy. These issues will determine what kind of nation we will pass on to future generations. Fred Jacobs, vice president, J-Ad Graphics think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website, www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. Last week’s question: New Year’s Day is known as the day to make resolutions for the coming year. What are your intentions. Will you make a New Year’s resolution? Yes 26% No 32% For this week: Of the 35 football bowl games televised this season, only four were available to network television viewers, forcing fans to purchase cable television packages to enjoy major sporting events in their homes. Should more games — including major games like the Rose Bowl and the national championship game — be deemed public property and be shown on network television? QUESTION Do you believe you’ll be able to keep your resolution? Yes 32% No 11% The Hastings q q YES NO Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Marilyn “Sam” Jarczynski lights up Barry County and puts a smile on the faces of guests at the Commission on Aging in Hastings with her magic at the organ each Wednesday and Friday from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Sam took piano lessons and sang in the church choir as a youngster in Clio, but got her big break after her grandfather left her a small inheritance with which she purchased an organ. A retired waitress of 40 years, Sam, 75, makes sure she play songs special to her audience, “Beautiful Dreamer” for one lady, “Amazing Grace” for another, and even a Johnny Cash medley for one gentleman. Sam has three children, eight grandchildren and six great grandchildren. She has been widowed since 1995 and considers her musical talent as a gift from God. Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Casey Cheney Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Helen Mudry • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 5, 2012 — Page 5 BBB names top 10 scams of 2011 The Better Business Bureau investigates thousands of scams every year, from the latest gimmicks to schemes much older than the schemers. A new scam source, available at www.bbb.org/scam, is a comprehensive resource on scam investigations from BBB offices around the country, with tips from BBB, law enforcement and others. Residents can sign up to receive scam alerts by email, and be scam detectives by reporting scams they’ve discovered. The top scams of the past year have been divided into nine major categories, with the top pick from each category, plus the scam of the year. Top job scam BBB sees lots of secret shopper schemes, work-from-home scams and other phony job offers, but the worst job-related scam can dash hopes and steal identity. These emails, websites and online applications all look professional, and the candidate is even interviewed for the job (usually over the phone) and then receives an offer. In order to start the job, however, the candidate has to fill out a so-called credit report or provide bank information for direct deposit of their “paychecks.” The online forms are nothing more than a way to capture sensitive personal data — Social Security number, bank accounts and the like — that can easily be used for identity theft. And, there is no job, either. Top sweepstakes and lottery scam Sweepstakes and lottery scams come in all shapes and sizes, but the bottom line is almost always this: The consumer is told he has won a whole lot of money, and in order to claim it, he has to send a smaller amount of money. “Oh, and keep this confidential until we’re ready to announce your big winnings,” he’s told. This year’s top sweepstakes scam was undoubtedly the email claiming to be from Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg announcing that the recipient was the winner of $1 million from the popular social networking site. These kinds of scams often use celebrities or other famous names to make their offers seem more genuine. “Don’t click on the link, but instead go directly to the home page of the company mentioned,” advised Phil Catlett, president of the Better Business Bureau of West Michigan. “If they are really giving away $1 million, there will be some kind of announcement on their website. But don’t waste too much time looking.” Top social media/online dating scam On the Internet, it’s easy to pretend to be someone else. “Are you really friends with all of your ‘friends’ on Facebook? Do you have a lot of personal information on a dating site? With so much information about us online, a scammer can sound like they know you,” warned Catlett. There are countless ways to use social media for scams, but one this year really stands out because it appeals to natural curiosity — and it sounds like it’s coming from a friend, said Catlett. Viral videos claiming to show everything from grisly footage of Osama bin Laden’s death to the latest celebrity hijinx have shown up on social media sites, often looking as if they have been shared by a friend. “When you click on the link, you are prompted to ‘upgrade your Flash player,’ but the file you end up downloading contains a worm that logs into your social media account, sends similar messages to your friends, and searches for your personal data. The next time you see a sensational headline for the latest viral video, resist the urge to peek,” said Catlett. Top home improvement scam Always near the top of BBB complaint data are home improvement contractors who often leave homes worse than they found them. “They usually knock on a door with a story or a deal — the roofer who can spot some missing shingles on your roof, the paver with some leftover asphalt who can give you a great deal on driveway resealing,” he explained. Itinerant contractors move around, keeping a step ahead of the law, and angry consumers, said Catlett. The worst, he said, are those who move in after natural disasters, taking advantage of desperate homeowners who need immediate help and may not be as suspicious as they would be under normal circumstances. A large percentage of BBB’s accredited businesses are home contractors who want to make sure consumers know they are legitimate, trustworthy and dependable, he said. Top check-cashing scam Two legitimate companies — Craig’s List and Western Union — are used for an inordinate amount of scamming these days, especially check-cashing scams. Catlett gave an example of how the scam might work: “Someone contacts you via a Craig’s List posting, maybe for a legitimate reason like buying your old couch or perhaps through a scam like hiring you as a secret shopper. Either way, they send you a check for more than the amount they owe you, and they ask you to deposit it into your bank account and then send them the difference via Western Union. A deposited check takes a couple of days to clear, whereas wired money is gone instantly. When the original check bounces, you are out whatever money you wired, and you’re still stuck with the old couch.” Top phishing scam “Phishing,” a term coined for the illicit act of fishing for information, often results when a person receives a suspicious phone call asking for personal information or an email that puts a virus on a computer to hunt for the user’s data. “It’s almost impossible to avoid them if you have a telephone or an email account,” he noted. But the most pernicious phishing scam this year disguised itself as official communication from NACHA — the National Automated Clearing House Association — which facilitates the secure transfer of billions of electronic transactions every year. The email claims that a transaction did not go through, and the sender urges the recipient to react quickly and click on the link before thinking it through. It may take the recipient to a fake banking site to “verify” account information or it may download malware to infiltrate the computer. Top identity-theft scam There are a million ways to steal someone’s identity, but one targeting hotel guests has become so prevalent that many hotels are posting warnings in their lobbies. “You get a call in your hotel room in the middle of the night,” explained Catlett. “It’s the front desk clerk, very apologetic, saying their computer has crashed and they need to get your credit card number again, or they must have gotten the number wrong because the transaction won’t go through, and could you please read the number back so they can fix the problem? Scammers are counting on you being too sleepy to catch on that the call isn’t from the hotel at all, but from someone outside who knows the direct-dial numbers for the guest rooms. By the time morning rolls around and you are clear-headed, your credit card has been on a major shopping spree.” Top financial scam DID YOU KNOW, continued from previous page The Banner received only one response to last week’s photo of two people handling a mail bag, but it was an informed response. Gerald Sifton of Woodland called to tell us that was his mother in the photo, Postmaster Norma Sifton, along with Dale Kloss, and that they were standing in the doorway of the old Woodland Post Office, which is now Manna’s Market. A new post office opened in Woodland in 1956, he said. That information helped direct staff to the original story that ran with the photo in the March 23, 1950, Banner, excerpted here: New star route now serving Woodland “Saturday [March 18, 1950] ended a 15year unbroken record of daily mail service between Lake Odessa and Woodland. Monday, a new star route service was inaugurated between Grand Rapids and the village on the east side of Barry County. [Star routes are special delivery services independently contracted by the U.S. Postal Service, accord- IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV Opinions are being censored by newspaper To the editor: In my opinion, what’s wrong when someone who owns a paper that refuses to print certain people’s letter to the editor. It’s called censorship. When does it depend on who you are, or whether you think it is important or not the public has a right to know, other people can write racist and slanderous remarks and they are printed because they are outstanding in the community and it will be printed. You the paper wonder why your subscriptions have fallen and I personally been told by people because of the refusal to print Letters to the Editor because you didn’t agree with them so you didn’t print them. Maybe you need to listen to the people who get your paper. This probably won’t get printed because you don’t agree with it but it needed to be said and told. Thank you Elden Shellenbarger Hastings Editor’s note: Eldon Shellenbarger’s letter offers an opportunity to inform all of our readers — and letter writers — of the guidelines that the paper follows in making decisions on possible publication. Our guidelines are published when space permits on this page. Those that apply most directly to Shellenbarger’s comments and to two additional letters we received this week that are not being published are highlighted as follows: • We will not accept letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses due to the possible positive or negative effects that such attention might provide to the prod- ucts a business sells or the services it provides. One of the Shellenbarger’s communications mentioned in today’s letter did breach that guideline. • We will not publish letters that contain attacks of a personal nature. An additional letter written by Shellenbarger — and not published — contained unfounded accusations about a candidate for public office. • We will not publish letters which contain statements that could be considered libelous or slanderous. In the two letters received this week regarding a criminal and civil case currently before the Barry County courts, statements were made regarding an issue that has not been published by this newspaper. Because they referenced an individual not yet identified by this newspaper as involved with the case, we have chosen to err on the side of caution rather than to cause a possibly innocent person irreparable harm. Stories we publish have been researched and the information used has been verfied by our staff of reporters. When a letter writer makes allegations that we do not have the time or resources to research, we delay publication — even though a letter writer may be willing to stand behind statements made. The newspaper is still subject to government oversight that will open the paper to legal action if it publishes such statements — even though the opinions are made by an individual. We welcome letters to the editor. We celebrate the diversity of opinion in our community. We ask that writers observe reasonable and fair guidelines. The guidelines are periodically published in this paper, as space allows. ing to the USPS website, which also stated that “Star routes declined in the 1950s as unnecessary and duplicate service was eliminated.] “The new service will provide direct, more rapid service between Grand Rapids, Alto, Clarksville, lake Odessa and Woodland — and incidentally to those communities from Hastings. “In the picture above, Dale Kloss, 38, is seen taking the last sack of mail from Postmaster Norma E. Sifton last Saturday afternoon for his final trip over the route he has traveled for nearly 15 years. Kloss had carried the mail from Lake Odessa to Woodland and return twice daily, at 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m., since July 1935. “And he had never missed a day — Sundays excluded. This record includes a trip on all holidays during that period until last Thanksgiving when the government no longer required holiday trips to the Woodland office. “While Kloss never missed a day, he did miss three trips due to weather conditions which made travel between the two towns impossible. “Kloss started out with a one-year contract, intending only to carry the route one year because of his health. But as his health improved, he kept on to establish the enviable record. “When he hauled his first mail, he had a 1928 Chevrolet truck, and through the years has driven seven different cars. He recently put into service a 1950 model. “Not only has Kloss been steady on his job in all kinds of weather, but he has also been accommodating. Many hundreds of people have received help [from Kloss] between the two towns when stranded for one reason or another. “In addition to carrying the mail, Kloss has also met all mail trains going into Lake Odessa during that period — sometimes as many as five a day between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. “Woodland Village President Lawrence Bird praised Kloss’ record of long service: ‘His record of dependable and devoted service in the delivery of mail to and from Woodland during the past 15 years is most outstanding and praiseworthy. His efforts have been deeply appreciated by the residents of the entire community.’” Kloss, died July 25, 1994, at 82. According to his obituary, he was a self-employed mail carrier between Lake Odessa and Woodland and janitor of the Lake Odessa Post Office for several years. He also owned and operated a boat rental and fishing equipment business in Lake Odessa. Norma Sifton worked for the postal service for 19 years, 11 of those as postmaster in Woodland, until her retirement in 1963. In financially challenging times, many people are looking for help getting out of debt or hanging on to their homes, and almost as many scammers appear to take advantage of desperate situations. Because the federal government announced or expanded several mortgage-relief programs this year, all kinds of sound-alike websites have popped up to try to fool consumers into parting with their money, warned Catlett. Some sound like a government agency, or even part of BBB or other nonprofit consumer organization. “Most ask for an up-front fee to help you deal with your mortgage company or the government (services you could easily do yourself for free), and almost all leave you in more debt than when you started,” he said. Top sales scam Sales scams are as old as humanity, but the Internet has introduced a whole new way to rip people off. Penny auctions are very popular because it seems like shoppers can get something useful, such as cameras or computers, for far below retail. The bidders pay a small fee for each bid (usually 50 cents to $1) and if they aren’t the winners, they lose that bid money. Winners often are not even the top bidder, just the last bidder when time runs out. Although not all penny auction sites are scams, Catlett said, some are being investigated as online gambling. “BBB recommends you treat them the same way you would legal gambling in a casino — know exactly how the bidding works, set a limit for yourself and be prepared to walk away before you go over that limit,” Catlett advised. Scam of the year The BBB put itself at the top of a phishing scam. Hundreds of thousands, perhaps millions, of people have gotten emails that very much look like an official notice from BBB. The subject line says something like “Complaint Against Your Business,” and the instructions tell the recipient to either click on a link or open an attachment to get the details. If the recipient does either, a malicious virus is launched on the computer, a virus that can steal banking information, passwords and other critical pieces of information needed for cyber-theft. Better Business Bureau staff is working with security consultants and federal law enforcement to track down the source of these emails, and has already shut down dozens of hijacked websites. Anyone who has opened an attachment or clicked on a link should run a complete system scan using reputable antivirus software. If a computer is networked with others, all machines on the network should be scanned, as well, he said. For more information on these and other scams or to sign up for alerts, go to BBB Scam Source www.bbb.org/scam. Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. Rick Tormela, regional representative. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. “Caring for your family as if it were our own” • Evening appointments available • Sedation offered for highly anxious patients • Please check out our website to learn more about services we offer! 730 Durkee, Nashville, MI 49073 Ph: (517)852-9150 • Fax: (517)852-9977 77564983 www.mynashvilledds.com �Page 6 — Thursday, January 5, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Call for Classifieds Phone 269-945-9554 24 Hours a Day - 7 Days a Week for Hastings Banner ACTION-Ads! Worship Together… Area Obituaries Jean Arden Rogers Earl Robert Thompson, Jr. 77564838 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Paul Osborn, Minister of Music; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service, Jr. & Sr. High Groups. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. HASTINGS SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH 904 Terry Lane, Hastings (or on the corner of Starr School Road and Terry Lane.) Phone: (269) 9452170. Pastor Michael Wise. www.hastingssda.com Sabbath (Saturday) School 9:30 a.m.; worship service 10:50 a.m. Mid-week meetings informal study and prayer service, Wednesdays 7 p.m. Youth ministry clubs, Adventurers for pre-school to 4th grade students and Pathfinders for 5th grade students through high school, meet on the first and third Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. and first and third Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. respectively. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:304:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. CHURCH OF THE LIVING GOD A full gospel church. 1240 W. State Rd., Hastings. Pastor Doug Davis. 269-948-9740. Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study 6 p.m. Sunday School and Youth Group for all ages. Come and worship the Lord with us! . QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. ORANGEVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH 6921 Marsh Rd., 2 miles south of Gun Lake, Plainwell. Phone 269664-4377. OrangevilleBaptist. org. Pastors Dan Bowman and Adam Parmenter. Sunday - 9:45 a.m. Adult Classes Offered: 1) Book of James; 2) Book of Jude; 3) Young Adult Class. Children, teen and adult Sunday School classes; 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Worship; 5:30 p.m. Junior and Senior High Word of Life Clubs. Tuesday - 9 a.m. Men’s Prayer and Bible Study. Wednesday - 6:30 p.m. Pre-school through 6th grade Word of Life Gophers & Olympians. Prayer & Bible Study - 7 p.m. 6 p.m. Teen Word of Life. Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University - 13 weeks - January-March. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Phone 269-721-8077. Minister Ryan Wieland 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Praise Worship Service; Noon alternate weekends Youth Group Tuesday. Covenant Prayer Group, Wednes-day 6:30 p.m., Choir Practice. Thursday 7 p.m. Praise Band Practice. 2nd and 4th Thursdays at 7 p.m. Christ’s Quilters. Friday 6:30 p.m., CPRChrist’s Plan for Recovery (meal served). For more information small groups, special evnts or if you have a prayer requst, call the church office and see postings on WEB site: www.countrychapel. umc.org. SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-795-2370 and the rectory number is 269-948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/ andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616-731-5194 or -517-8521806. HASTINGS REFORMED CHURCH “A Historic Reformed Community.” Sunday morning services begin at 10 a.m. Meeting at the Barry County Commission on Aging building, 320 W. Woodlawn Ave., Hastings. Pastor: Peter Adams. 616690-8609 padams@juno.com. Jean Arden Rogers passed away December 31, 2011 at Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo. She was born December 4, 1933. Jean is survived by her husband of 18 years, Dan Rogers; five children; 14 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren; one great great grandchild. She loved the outdoors. She loved to fish and paint and loved lakes and oceans. Dorothy “Pam” Pamela Smith HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 9:15 Contempor-ary Worship, 10:30 a.m. Refreshments, 11 a.m. Traditional Worship. Sunday School for PreK-2nd and 3rd-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. The Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-9482673 for additional information. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Pastor of Senior Adults and Visitation, Don Brail. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. for children, youths and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Senior High Youth Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesday MidWeek: 6:30-7:45 p.m. Pioneer Clubs, age 4th to 5th grade, and Junior High Youth Group, 6th-8th grade. Thursday: 10 a.m. Senior Adult Discussion and 11:30 a.m., lunch at Wendy’s. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH January 8 - 8:00 & 10:45. 9:30 Sunday School. Noisy Offering for Love, Inc. Constitution meeting after second service. Men’s Alcoholics Anonymous 7:00. 1239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-9459414 or 945-2645, fax 269-9452698. Pastor Amy Luckey http://www.discover-grace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 9 a.m. Worship Service Traditional; 10 a.m. Sunday School for All Ages; 11 a.m. Worship Service - Contemporary; 6:00 Youth Group. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot .com. Thursday - 5:30 p.m. Walk Away Winter; 6:30 p.m. Choir Rehearsal. Friday - 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday - 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday - 5 p.m. Pickleball; 5:30 p.m. Walk Away Winter; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 5 p.m. Pickleball. HASTINGS, MI - Dorothy Pamela Smith “Pam” of Hastings passed away after a courageous 4 1/2 year battle with cancer on Thursday, December 29, 2011 at the age of 79. She was born on December 16, 1932, the daughter of Stephen Pratt and Dorothy May (Seely) Goddard. She graduated from school in Pakenham, England and moved to the States in 1952. She met her “Valentine” Donald E. Smith on Valentine’s Day in 1951 and was married on January 19, 1952. Pam enjoyed gardening and birds, and loved spending time with her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Her working career included working for Buehler Chiropractic, Hooks Drug Store and assisting Don to coach the Hastings High School Cross Country teams, where she was known as “Mrs. Coach”. Pam was preceded in death by her parents and husband, Donald. Surviving are her sons, Forest Smith of Indiana and Daniel Smith of Grand Rapids; daughters, Linda (Alan) Conrad of Hastings and Felicity (Tim) Laurie of Hastings; grandchildren, Jennifer (Chris) Stafford, Jill (D.J.) Lajoye, Donny (Nicole) Smith, Silas Smith, Stephanie (Robbie Lee) Conrad, Nate Smith, Jake Smith, Scott Conrad, Trenton (Erin) Smith, Teresa (Patrick) Healey, Craig Laurie, Ryan Smith, Eric (Ida Botten) Laurie and Zach Smith; great grandchildren, Ben, Nick, Carter, Cohen, Colten, Donnie, Logan, Abella, Riley, Brayden, Konner, Gabe, Abbie and Parker; sisters, Betty Stutters, Vivian (Bahram) Jolly; brother, John (Ann) Goddard all of England; and her puppy dog, Lilly. Funeral services were held on Monday, January 2, 2012 at Lauer Family Funeral Home – Wren Chapel, 1401 N. Broadway, in Hastings with Chaplin Joyce Zaagman officiating. Interment followed in Woodland Memorial Park. For those who wish, memorial contributions may be directed to Pennock Foundation Hospice Fund, 1230 W. State St., Hastings, MI 49058 or Lack’s Cancer Center at St. Mary's, 250 Cherry Dr. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506 . Please share a memory with Pam’s family at www.lauerfh.com. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Fiberglass Products Lauer Family Funeral Homes 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 FAMILY FUNERAL HOMES HASTINGS, MI - Earl Robert Thompson Jr., age 68, of Hastings passed away unexpectedly, due to a heart attack, Saturday, December 31, 2011. He was born November 2, 1943 in Kalamazoo, the son of Earl Robert Thompson Sr. and Billie (Downey) Jensen. Earl attended Richland High School, graduating in 1962. He honorably served in the US Army National Guard out of Kalamazoo, from 1965 to 1968. Earl married Linda Warner on August 20, 1966. He was currently employed as a Hastings school bus driver and at J-Ad Graphics in Hastings. Earl was previously employed at McCormicks Tractor Supply, where he retired from in 2006. He enjoyed farming, International tractors, Star Trek, the Statler Brothers music, John Wayne movies, playing cards and spending time with family. Earl was preceded in death by his parents, Earl Thompson, Sr. and Billie (Downey/ Thompson) Jensen. Earl is survived by his wife, Linda Thompson of Hastings; sons, Earl (Debbie) Thompson of Byron Center and James (Melissa) Thompson of Sunfield; daughters, Sara (Brian) Schaefer of Middleville and Vicky (Steve) Howlett of Hastings; nine grandchildren; sisters, Linda (Duane) Ritsema, Becki (Al) Ahlrich; and brother, James (Karen) Thompson. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family at: FirstBank, C/O Linda Thompson, 1500 W. M-43 Hwy., Hastings, MI 49058. Visitation will be held Thursday, January 5, 2012 from 11 a.m. until noon at Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. Funeral services will follow the visitation beginning at noon. Kip Hasselbring will be officiating the service. A private family burial will take place at Prairie Home Cemetery in Richland Township. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message to the family. Susan June Twigg HASTINGS, MI - Susan June Twigg, age 65, of Hastings, went to be with her Lord on December 27, 2011. She was preceded in death by her mother, Ruth Shellenbarger; aunt, Judy Cummings; brother-in-law, Harold (Gene) Sinclair; niece, Tara Ann Shellenbarger; nephew, Moses Allen Sinclair; niece, Jessica Shellenbarger; and many additional aunts and uncles. She will be lovingly remembered and missed by her son, Khris Twigg (Colleen Weaver); grandchildren, Austin and Mikaela Twigg who were the light of her life; aunt, Patricia (Edd) Buell; uncle, Dick (Joanne) Taggart; sister, Debi (Leon “Squeak”) Krebs; brother, Michael (Cathy) Shellenbarger; sister, Bettie (Jerry) Morris; sister, Helen Sinclair; and sister Gloria Shellenbarger; nephews, Gene (Cheryl) Sinclair, Rick (Michelle) Krebs, Joe Krebs, Marty Shellenbarger, Steven White, and Billy Wilson; nieces, Julie (Gene) Haas, Amie (Chris) Patten, Heather Krebs, Carrie Wilson, Colleen Shellenbarger, Nicole (Bob) Stinnett, Kimberly (Brooks) Creech, and Robyn Hines; in addition to many cousins and anyone that has ever been touched by her love. Sue worked at Lescoa in Middleville, she was the manager at the Citgo station on North Broadway for many years, and finished her employment career at the BP station on State St. Sue touched many lives while she was with us either by a friendly smile in the morning at the gas station or a pair of crocheted gloves for our winter jackets. She had a passion for making crocheted blankets, something everyone in her family received as a gift from her throughout her life. Her grandchildren, Austin and Mikaela, were her pride and joy. They were the best gift that was ever given to her. They made her very proud with how they have handled her prolonged illness. Her cowbell may be silenced at the rest of Austin’s football games, however she will be ringing a hundred of them from heaven for him and his team. A memorial service was held at Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings on Tuesday, January 3, 2012. Contributions in her memory may be made to the family to help cover funeral expenses or they can be made to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society at www.lls.org. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message for the family. Workshop offered for people considering running for office The Barry Community Foundation is suggesting that anyone thinking of running for public office should reserve time in March to attend a two-part workshop. Both sessions will be from 6 to 9 p.m. in the community room of Hastings City Bank, 150 W. Court St. Session 1, Tuesday, March 20, will include such topics as “Would You Consider Running for Public Office,” how to conduct a selfanalysis to consider what being a candidate involves, working with the media and researching ballot issues. Topics during Session 2 Thursday, March 22, will include an introduction to the Open Meetings and Freedom of Information acts and Robert’s Rules of Order; ethical conduct for public officials; and a review of city, village, county and township issues. The cost is $30 for both workshops and includes the booklet “Public Officials, Roles and Responsibilities.” For more information, call Linda Fisher at Barry County MSU Extension, 269-945-1388. State traffic crashes up over holidays Preliminary reports from the Michigan State Police Criminal Justice Information Center indicate 15 people died in traffic crashes over the Christmas and New Year’s holidays, with four of those deaths involving alcohol. This is an increase over the 2010 holiday periods when 11 people died in traffic crashes. Four of those deaths were alcoholrelated. Three of the people killed were pedestrians, and one was a 48-year-old snowmobiler in Antrim County. Six deaths occurred Dec. 24 to 26, two of which involved alcohol. In three cases, drivers or passengers were not buckled at the time of the crash. Two of the fatal crashes occurred in Wayne County; the others happened in Jackson, Ingham, Washtenaw and Macomb counties. The other nine fatalities occurred between Dec. 31 and Jan. 1, two of which were alcohol-related. The fatal crashes occurred in Antrim, Calhoun, Clare, Genesee, Gratiot, Kalamazoo, Lapeer, Mason and St. Clair counties. More than 165 law enforcement agencies in 26 counties conducted drunk driving enforcement with extra patrols funded by the Office of Highway Safety Planning through federal traffic safety funds, Dec. 16 to Jan. 2. Enforcement results will be available in the coming weeks. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 5, 2012 — Page 7 SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN Specialist answers Social Security questions If both my spouse and I are entitled to Social Security benefits, is there any reduction in our payments because we are married? No. We calculate lifetime earnings independently to determine each spouse’s Social Security benefit amount. When each member of a married couple meets all other eligibility requirements to receive Social Security retirement benefits, each spouse receives a monthly benefit amount based on his or her own earnings. Couples are not penalized simply because they are married. If one member of the couple earned low wages or failed to earn enough Social Security credits (40) to be Newborn Babies Jackson Robert Storrs, born December 14, 2011 in Grand Rapids to Danielle and Jeff Storrs of Hastings. He weighed 7 lbs. 4 ozs. and was 21 inches long. ***** Maxwell Charles, born at Pennock Hospital on December 20, 2011 at 2:25 a.m. to Jacki and Brian Schneider of Middleville. Weighing 7 lbs. 5 ozs. and 19 1/2 inches long. ***** Owen Patrick, born at Pennock Hospital on December 22, 2011 at 4:33 a.m. to Bryan and Amanda Theisen of Vermontville. Weighing 8 lbs. 7 ozs. and 20 inches long. Is there a time limit on Social Security disability benefits? Your disability benefits will continue as long as your medical condition has not improved and you cannot work. We will review your case at regular intervals to make sure you are still disabled. Learn more by reading the publication, ‘Disability Benefits’ at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10029.html. Is it true that a person can own a home and still be eligible for Supplemental Security Income benefits? Yes, a person who owns a home and lives in that home can be eligible for SSI benefits. SSI is for people who are disabled, aged or blind and who have limited income and resources. However, there are some items we do not count as resources, such as the home you live in. For more information, read ‘Supplemental Security Income’ at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/11000.html. I know you need to have limited resources to receive Supplemental Security Income but what is considered a resource? Resources are things you own that you can use for support. They include cash, real estate, personal belongings, bank accounts, stocks and bonds. To be eligible for SSI, a person must have no more than $2,000 in countable resources. A married couple must have no more than $3,000 in countable resources. If you own resources over the SSI limit, you may be able to get SSI benefits while trying to sell the resources. Not all of your resources count toward the SSI resource limit. For example: • The home you live in and the land it’s on do not count. • Your personal effects and household goods do not count. • Life insurance policies may not count, depending on their value. • Your car usually does not count. • Burial plots for you and members of your immediate family do not count. • Up to $1,500 in burial funds for you and up to $1,500 in burial funds for your spouse may not count. • If you are blind or have a disability, some items may not count if you plan to use them to work or earn extra income. You may also wish to read more about resources in the booklet, ‘Understanding SSI’ at www.socialsecurity.gov/ssi/text-understanding-ssi.htm. If I call 800-772-1213, can a Social Marriage Licenses Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email at vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. about “mousing and more,” 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 10 — toddler story time has fun with colors, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30; open chess club, 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 11 — Terrific Tweens have fun with popcorn, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.; Friends of the Library meet from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Call the Hastings Public Library for more information, 269-945-4263. Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads GREEN’S ® Medical Marijuana Clinic The 109 N. Main St., Nashville MI 49073 517-852-1767 Mobile/Home Come and be part of the clinical study $40 office fee Certification/Renew All medication is free Under MMMA Delivery Available www.greensmedical.com BARRY COUNTY Area TEA PARTY MEETING 7:00 pm • Tuesday, January 10th U.S. Senate Candidates: Clark Durant & Gary Glenn Middle Villa Inn 77564841 Can I get an estimate of my retirement benefit at several different possible ages? Yes. We suggest you use the Retirement Estimator at www.socialsecurity.gov/estimator to test different retirement scenarios. This online tool will give you retirement benefit estimates based on current law and real time access to your earnings record. The Retirement Estimator also lets you create additional “what if” retirement scenarios. You can test even more alternatives at www.socialsecurity.gov/planners/calculators.htm. I am receiving Social Security disability benefits. Will my benefits be affected if I work and earn money? It can, depending on your work income. We have special rules called “work incentives” that help you keep your cash benefits and Medicare while you test your ability to work. For example, there is a trial work period during which you can receive full benefits regardless of how much you earn, as long as you report your work activity and continue to have a disabling impairment. For more information about work incentives, read the leaflet, ‘Working While Disabled – How We Can Help,’ at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10095.html. Security representative take my application for Medicare prescription drug help over the phone? If an interviewer is available when you call the 800 number, he or she can take your application over the phone. If an interviewer is not immediately available, we can schedule a telephone appointment for you. For the fastest and most convenient way to apply for Medicare prescription drug help, go online to www.socialsecurity.gov/prescriptionhelp. Thursday, Jan. 5 — Movie Memories celebrates British authors, with “David Copperfield” (1935), 5 to 8 p.m.; no library book club this month. Friday, Jan. 6 — preschool story time finds out that “chickens aren’t the only ones,” 10:30 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 7 — Lego Club recreates “Hitting the Slopes – a Skiing Scene,” 1 to 3 p.m. Monday, Jan. 9 — computer classes learn 07588939 I lost my Social Security card. Should I get a new one? You may not need to get a replacement card. Knowing your Social Security number is what is important. However, you can replace your Social Security card for free if it is lost or stolen. Remember, you are limited to three replacement cards in a year and 10 during your lifetime. Learn more at www.socialsecurity.gov. insured for retirement benefits, he or she may be eligible to receive benefits as a spouse. Learn more about Social Security at www.socialsecurity.gov. 77564901 When a person who has worked and paid Social Security taxes dies, are benefits payable on that person’s record? Social Security survivors benefits can be paid to: • A widow or widower — unreduced benefits at full retirement age, or reduced benefits as early as age 60. • A disabled widow or widower — as early as age 50. • A widow or widower at any age if he or she takes care of the deceased person’s child who is under age 16 or disabled and receiving Social Security benefits. • Unmarried children under 18, or up to age 19 if they are attending high school full time. Under certain circumstances, benefits can be paid to stepchildren, grandchildren or adopted children. • Children at any age who were disabled before age 22 and remain disabled. • Dependent parents age 62 or older. Even if you are divorced, you still may qualify for survivors benefits. For more information, go to www.socialsecurity.gov. HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE 4611 North M-37, Middleville Gary L. Munson 269-623-8464 BIG Banners for your Special Event! Free Home of the Brave e Thanks to th OME H E M O C L E W MICHAEL! OUR OWN MVP • Birthdays • Anniversaries • Graduations • Weddings • Reunions Congratulations Aaron Banners can be output in full color on bond stock, photo paper, heavy cover stock, canvas or plastic materials! 2x6 ft. Banner $ 19 2x8 ft. Banner $ 95 24 95 as low as as low as SAME DAY SERVICE ON MOST BANNERS! LOST LABRADOODLE Joshua Lee Boulter, Hastings and Lacy Renae Pittelkow, Hastings. Nicholas James Freeman, Middleville and Isabel Duran Garcia, Idar-Oberstein, Germany. Need wedding invitations? Cream/white female labradoodle missing since the morning of January 3, 2012. Answers to the name of Zoey. Her family misses her so much. Any information is appreciated. PLEASE CALL (269) 948-9818 Stop by and check out the large selection at J-Ad Graphics Printing Plus North of Hastings on M-43 Highway in the grey barn DESIGN YOUR OWN CUSTOM 2012 Calendar $ as low as 19 95 FREE DOUBLE PRINTS Now thru January 27, 2012 1351 N.Broadway (M-43) Hastings 269.945.9105 OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:00 - 5:30 �Page 8 — Thursday, January 5, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of by Elaine Garlock Thursday, Jan. 12, the Lake Odessa Area Historical Society will meet at 7 p.m. at the Freight House. There will be a program, refreshments and times for sharing. Visitors and guests are always welcome. Saturday, Jan. 14, the Ionia County Genealogical Society will meet at 1 p.m. at the Freight House. The society has new decks of playing cards for sale. Each is imprinted with a photo of some historic spot of personage from the county. There will be a program Saturday and refreshments. The society often gets requests from far and near for data on ancestors. Other requests for people wanting to know about the home or farm of an ancestor. The schedule for free movies at the Ionia Theater includes today’s showing on Yosemite park. Next week’s movie is on California – Bakersfield to Mojave. The Jan. 19 film will be the Atlantic coast. The final January showing will feature Alaska, with the scenery from Anchorage to Seward. The list of parcels up for tax sale has been published in local papers. Odessa Township has 22, of which 12 are in the village. Sebewa Township and Woodland Township have six each. A recent issue of the Grand Rapids Press had a front-page story on volunteers sharing holiday cheer with hospice patients. Pictured on page 1 was Lakewood educator Shirley Dodde-Brown reading from Shakespeare to a patient who is 103 years old. Dodde-Brown makes weekly visits and tries to read literature, play music or just have good conversation. Union Bank has now spread its use of the building on M-50. The investment counselor has moved from an inner office to the space in the center section of the building with its own entrance, where Chad Hickey for recent years has had his Viking Chiropractic offices from which he moved in late fall to his building on M-50, formerly housing a veterinary service near Eaton Highway. The family of the late Orville and Virginia Decker met for their annual post-Christmas meal and festivities New Year’s Day at the fellowship hall with four generations present. Dec. 30, Jenny Decker was the guest of honor at a surprise birthday party hosted by her husband, Brian, with assists from other family members Chelsea Zook, Terri and Kathy Decker, plus others. Jenny’s mother and brother came from Ohio rather than to make a Christmas visit. Jenny was surprised, although she knew her mother and brother were coming for a visit. Ule and Elizabeth Baecker of Milwaukee came to spend Christmas with her mother Elaine VanLannen and the Mark Ericksen family. Local scholarship deadline is March 15 The application deadline for post-high school scholarships being offered through the Barry Community Foundation and its geographic affiliate, the Thornapple Area Enrichment Foundation, has moved to an earlier date, March 15, to ensure students complete the process before spring break begins. Online scholarship applications are currently available at www.barrycf.org where potential applicants can also receive a map detailing scholarships for which they may be eligible, as well as specific scholarship requirements. Students need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid in order to complete the foundation’s online application. Further information is available from Laurie Black at the BCF, 269-945-0526. See us for color copies, one-hour photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED ZONING AMENDMENTS Notice is hereby given that the Barry County Planning/Zoning Commission will conduct a public hearing on, January 23, 2012 at 7:00 PM in the Community Room of the Courts & Law Building located at 206 West Court St, in Hastings, Michigan. The subject of the public hearing will be the consideration of the following amendment to the Barry County Zoning Ordinance of 2008: MAP CHANGE A-1-2012 Request to rezone property in Section 5, Orangeville Township (see attached map). From RL (Residential Lake) to MU (Mixed Use) - (Shaded Area) All of the above mentioned property is located in Barry County, Michigan. What does investment landscape look like in 2012? As an investor, you know that 2011 was a somewhat “choppy” year, with the financial markets going through many ups and downs. So what can you expect in 2012? As baseball Hall of Famer Yogi Berra is quoted as saying: “It’s hard to make predictions - especially about the future.” And these words are certainly applicable for anyone who would like an accurate forecast of the investment climate. Yet we do know of some factors that may affect your portfolio in the months ahead. Here are a few of them: • Strong business fundamentals - This past year, all the noise about the debt ceiling debate, the size of the U.S. deficit and the European financial situation tended to drown out some fairly good news: U.S. businesses’ balance sheets were strong for the most part, borrowing costs remained low, and corporate profits were good - and corporate profitability remains a key driver of stock prices. Heading into 2012, these fundamentals continue to look positive, which may bode well for investors. • Europe’s debt crisis - Greece’s economic problems made a lot of news in 2011, but they weren’t the end of the story in Europe, as major financial difficulties also face Italy, Spain, Portugal and Ireland. It’s by no means clear how these problems will be resolved, so don’t be surprised to see them lead to intermittent, if short-lived, shocks to the markets. • Election-year patterns - As you’re well aware, we’re voting for president in 2012. But you might be surprised to learn that the S&P 500 index has shown negative returns in only three of the last 21 presidential election years. Coincidence? No one can say for sure - and at this point, no one can say if this pattern of positive returns will continue during this election year. Still, it’s an interesting phenomenon. So there you have it: the good, the bad and STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 28.56 -1.16 AT&T 30.38 +.34 BP PLC 44.14 +1.00 CMS Energy Corp 21.82 -.40 Coca-Cola Co 70.14 +.26 Eaton 45.49 +1.03 Family Dollar Stores 57.41 -1.20 Fifth Third Bancorp 13.08 +.33 Flowserve CP 101.93 +1.08 Ford Motor Co. 11.13 +.32 General Mills 40.30 -.31 General Motors 21.05 +.96 Intel Corp. 24.54 -.02 Kellogg Co. 50.46 -.29 McDonald’s Corp 98.84 -1.71 Pfizer Inc. 21.97 +.20 Ralcorp 85.26 -.43 Sears Holding 31.43 -1.95 Spartan Motors 5.04 -.02 Spartan Stores 18.87 unch Stryker 51.07 +1.22 Walmart Stores 60.33 +.50 Gold $1604.75 +11.22 Silver $29.64 +.94 Dow Jones Average 12,397 +106 Volume on NYSE 807M +350 Keep your friends and relatives INFORMED! Send them The BANNER To subscribe, call us at... the quirky. Take them all together, and you still may not be able to foresee what will happen with the markets this year, but you’ll have a lot to think about. But instead of trying to predict what will happen in 2012, you may be better off following these tried-and-true investment strategies: • Diversify your holdings. By spreading your money among a wide range of investments, you can reduce the effects of volatility on your portfolio. Keep in mind, though, that diversification, by itself, can’t guarantee profits or protect against loss. • Don’t ignore your risk tolerance. If you worry excessively about market fluctuations, you may have too much risk in your portfolio, which means you may need to make some changes. • Always look at the “big picture.” Financial markets will always fluctuate. But if you can keep your focus on your long-term objectives, and make decisions accordingly, you can avoid overreacting to short-term events. Like other years, 2012 will bring with it periods of both turbulence and smooth sailing. But by making the right investment moves, you can still chart a course that can allow you to move ever closer to your future goals. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Hitting below the belt by Dr. E. Kirsten Peters If you’ve made a New Year’s resolution to eat right and trim down, be forewarned that medical science shows your brain has it in for you and will actively promote your failure on two different fronts. That’s not good news, of course, but you should know about it so you can strengthen your resolve as best you can. Here’s the scoop. It’s relatively easy — particularly if you are significantly overweight — to lose a few pounds by reducing the number of calories you consume each day. The problem is that your initial success will trigger a couple of responses in your body. First, as you lose weight, a hormone called leptin, which is produced by your fat cells, will start to drop in concentration. That change tells your brain that your stores of fat are decreasing. The brain responds to that report as if famine is on the way. The body makes changes to conserve its energies, and your metabolism will drop. Metabolism — the rate at which we burn energy — is a major key to what our weight tends to be. Your metabolism may differ from that of John or Jane. But it also will change compared to what it was before you lost weight. The lower your metabolism, the easier it is to consume more calories than you burn in a day — triggering weight gain. Here’s how that works in practice. Imagine you weighed 175 pounds for a number of years, but then your weight creeps up to 200 pounds. You go on a diet and successfully get back to 175. Congratulations. But your metabolism is now likely to be slower at 175 pounds than it would have been if you’d always weighed in at that one amount. In other words, science has shown you have to eat fewer calories to maintain yourself at 175 pounds than you would have if you had always weighed that amount. What this means is that, depending on your weight loss, you may face a 300- to 500-calorie “handicap.” To beat that handicap, you’ll have to eat that many fewer calories each day to maintain yourself at your new weight, compared to someone who had never been overweight. 269-945-9554 Legal Description: Lots 1, 2 & 3 of Chateau Park Plat and also Commencing 238.5 ft East of the West 1/4 post, Section 5-210, th S 39°54’ E 403.6 ft to POB, which is one traverse line of Gun Lake; th S 39°54’ E 60 ft., th S 49°44’ E 131 ft, th S 57°42’ E 200 ft, th S 71°24’ E 200 ft, to end of traverse line, th S 01°06’ W 425.4 ft, th N 68°23’ W 225 ft, th N 65°55’ W 173.3 ft, th S 04°10’38” E 172.89 ft, th N 59°10’ W 274.5 ft, th N 54°12’ W 328.5 ft, th E 50 ft, th N 28°11’ E 50 ft, th N 28°11’ E 129 ft, th N 19°44’ E 159.6 ft, th N 53°36’ E 254.5 ft to traverse line on Gun Lake and point of beginning. Intending to extend to from the traverse line to the shore of Gun Lake. Orangeville Township Interested persons desiring to present their views on the proposed amendments, either verbally or in writing will be given the opportunity to be heard at the above mentioned time and place. Any written response may be mailed to the address listed below, faxed to (269) 948-4820 or e-mail to: jmcmanus@barrycounty.org. The proposed amendment of the Barry County Zoning Ordinance is available for public inspection at the Barry County Planning Office, 220 W State St, in Hastings, MI, between the hours of 8 AM to 5 PM (closed between 12-1 PM) Monday thru Friday. Please call the Barry County Planning Office at (269) 945-1290 for further information. The County of Barry will provide necessary auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/ hearing upon ten (10) days notice to the County of Barry. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the County of Barry by writing or call the following: Michael Brown, County Administrator, 220 W State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 - (269) 945-1284. ___________________________________________ Pamela A. Jarvis, Barry County Clerk 77564907 EDWARD JONES NOTICE RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP 2012 PLANNING COMMISSION MEETINGS PLEASE TAKE NOTICE: The Rutland Charter Township Planning Commission will meet the third Wednesday of each month at 7:30 p.m., unless otherwise posted. Robin Hawthorne, Clerk Rutland Charter Township 2461 Heath Road, Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 948-2194 77564952 But the scientific news gets worse. At your post-diet weight of 175, there’s a double whammy. Simply put, you’ll likely feel plenty hungry after your weight loss. The reason is that some other brain chemicals will be triggered that tell you that you feel peckish. In short, your appetite will be stimulated by the fact that you’ve lost weight. So on the one hand, you’ll need fewer calories than someone of your weight who has never dieted, but at the same time, you’ll feel more hungry than someone who has always been slim and trim. What’s a poor person sincerely trying to be faithful to a New Year’s resolution to do? For one thing, the experts agree it’s pointless to try fad diets, such as eating only dill pickles. The best chance of success is to modify your diet toward eating right in a way you can do for the rest of your natural life. “Dieting” shouldn’t be about short-term weight loss based on serious deprivation — you need to find what works for you that you can sustain over the long term. Another key to success is exercise, and yet more exercise after that. General medical advice is to get 30 minutes per day of moderate exercise. But to maintain weight loss, you’ll likely have to do better. Many advisors in medical science say a person needs to get an hour of exercise each day to keep off pounds shed through dieting. Nothing about weight management is easy, and scientists are learning more and more about how and why it’s so difficult to lose weight and keep it off. But if you’re like me, January is a good time to make some changes — changes you can stick with throughout all the weeks and months of this bright and shiny new year. Others have done it successfully in the past, so let’s encourage one another to take on the serious but rewarding work of helping our health through diet and exercise. Dr. E. Kirsten Peters, a native of the rural Northwest, was trained as a geologist at Princeton and Harvard universities. Follow her online at rockdoc.wsu.edu and on Twitter at RockDocWSU. This column is a service of the College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences at Washington State University. NOTICE TO RESIDENTS RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP 2461 HEATH ROAD, HASTINGS TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING DATES FOR 2012 2ND WEDNESDAY OF EACH MONTH AT 7:30 P.M., UNLESS OTHERWISE POSTED JANUARY 11 MARCH 14 MAY 19 JULY 11 SEPTEMBER 12 NOVEMBER 14 FEBRUARY 8 APRIL 11 JUNE 13 AUGUST 8 OCTOBER 10 DECEMBER 12 77564950 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 5, 2012 — Page 9 Most buildings on State Street are recognizable today. This photo, from the 1890s, was taken ner the Jefferson Street interesection, looking west. News from 1895, part I This recap of the year 1895, was published in the Feb. 9, 1953, Hastings Banner. ***** by M. L. Cook I have before me now a bulky book of 420 pages, each 18 by 24 inches, six columns to the page, which I must look over carefully to get my story for 1895. With much impaired eyesight, it is no easy job. What will we find? In the first issue that year, the death of Charles G. Holbrook is announced. He was for many years a leader of the Barry County bar. His age was only 61. He was born in New York state and had a fine education. He came to Hastings in 1853 and studied law in the office of his brother, Isaac N. Holbrook. He passed the required examination and gained his right to practice law soon after he was 21. He was a successful lawyer and had a large practice. He had a fine sense of humor and was a master of sarcastic speech. That made him many enemies, but he never returned their bitter feelings against him. Mr. Holbrook could appreciate and enjoy a good joke when he was the victim. One morning he bought a large, dressed hog. He soon saw Lou Bennett, a noted character, on the street, and told him: “Lou, I have just bought a large, dressed hog. It is up at the house. I want you to cut it up and pack the pork in the barrel I use for that purpose. Your pay will be the hog’s head and neck.” Lou was adept at almost any kind of a job. Mr. Holbrook started home earlier than usual for dinner that day. He noticed Bennett coming toward him. The lawyer’s explosive laugh could be heard for blocks. Astride Lou’s neck were the front legs of the porker. His body was bent forward under the weight of more than a third of the big hog. Lou had not anticipated meeting the lawyer. He started his own homeward journey also, for very obvious reasons. Early enough to avoid that possibility, he thought. Now he was facing Holbrook. Did that disturb Lou? It did not. He was equal to what the situation brought to him, and he had no idea of apologizing nor of surrendering his own winter supply of meat. He never stopped or batted an eye but kept on going. Just before he passed the lawyer he said, “Charley, that hog had the d--dest, longest neck on him of any hog I ever saw.” So Lou kept his meat. And Charley had many a laugh about this joke on himself as he related the story to others. Two men, living not 1,000 miles from Coats Grove, came here Saturday, promptly filled themselves with bug juice and added more as time went on. When they started home that night, the roads tangled up; but the pair didn’t mind a little thing like that. About midnight, a farmer south of town in Baltimore, heard strange noises in front of his house in the roadway. He went out to investigate. He found a span of horses hitched to an overturned wagon, and two men nearly frozen, for it was bitter cold. He cared for men and team, taking the two into his house, thawed them up and sobered them. They went on their way back to town and on to Coats Grove. Did this experience teach them anything? Judging from their past performances, that is doubtful. The other supervisors are guying Supervisor France of Prairieville a lot these days. He claimed to have lost his overcoat, hunted high and low around the courthouse, but it wasn’t there. But it was discovered hanging up in plain sight in the clerk’s office. He claimed to have lost it again, a day or two later; but a member of the board told him he was wearing the missing garment, and that was true. – Banner Jan. 10. Saturday, Supervisor Chauncey L. Briggs, of Assyria, received word that his barn, a span of horses, hay and grain and some farm tools were destroyed by fire the night before. He figured his loss at $2,000, with $1,300 insurance. – Banner Jan. 17. The 48 members of our fire department, probably remembering how easily they had their pay doubled last year by resigning, recently asked another increase. The council could not see how they could pay 50 percent more, so they declined. The firemen all resigned. The Banner of March 31 announced that Ed Powers had been named postmaster of Hastings by President Cleveland, and the nomination was confirmed by the U.S. senate. The first page of the Banner of April 4 was devoted to rejoicing over the fact that the Republican state ticket had a majority of over 60,000 in Michigan at the spring election. In Barry County, the Republicans elected 14 of the 18 supervisors. In this city, they elected mayor, justice, three aldermen and all four members of the school board. For the first time since Hastings became a city, the mayor and a majority of the council were Republicans. For school commissioner of the county Miss Flora Beadle defeated Enoch Andrus, the Republican nominee, by over 800 majority. Evidently citizens of Hastings were liberal users of city water for the Banner of June 13 said: “Hereafter, when you hear three toots of the water works whistle, you must cease sprinkling lawns, for the water is getting low in the big well.” Thieves broke into the Hastings House [hotel] Saturday night and stole $120 from the cash drawer. No clues. The city council, says the Banner of April 4, entered into a contract with Henry Newton to furnish the city with street lighting at a reduction from prices now charged by the Hastings Electric Light Co. Mr. Newton agreed to put a dam on Fall Creek, which he said would give him 31 horsepower. Henry is a dreamer. He means well, but his plans have a habit of not working out as he thinks they will. The council gave him until July 1 to fulfill his part of the agreement. The Banner of May 9 states that Will Chase, of Woodland, playing first base for the Nashville team in a game at Eaton Rapids, had his leg broken. He had his foot braced against the peg beneath the sack, when an Eaton Rapids player was running to first. He ran into Will in such a way as to fracture his leg. He’s a fine young chap and has many friends who hope for his speedy recovery. The City Bank statement, in the Banner of May 16, shows capital $75,000, surplus $15,000 and deposits of $113,700.30. Two young chaps of this city decided that they would get to a pool on West Creek before anyone else, on the opening day of trout season. They got up at two o’clock and made quick time for Haney’s woods. When they reached the desired spot, they found County Clerk John Nagler was there, and had already caught a speckled beauty. The Banner of May 23 contains a long account of the meeting in this city of the Republican editors of the state, Thursday and The Hastings Fire Department had a rocky start, first forming in 1873, disbanding, reorganizing in 1876, disbanding in 1894 and reorganizing in 1895. Friday of the previous week. Hon. Daniel Striker and wife opened their beautiful home for a largely attended reception of the visiting pen pushers. In the receiving line were Chase S. Osborn, later governor of this state, Perry F. Powers, of Cadillac, and Mr. F. Clark, of the Lansing Republican. At the Hastings House banquet for the visitors there were 175. P.T. Colgrove presided. Judge Smith warmly welcomed the editors. Chase S. Osborn responded, stating that this was the best meeting the association ever held and praised Hastings for its fine hospitality. Congressman James O’Donnell, of Jackson, Sen. Palton, of Grand Rapids and Gov. John F. Rich gave fine responses to the topics assigned them and congratulated Hastings for doing so much to make the meeting helpful and successful. The entire first page of the Banner of May 30 and several columns on another page, were taken up with copies of editorials appearing in papers whose editors attended the meeting of the Republican Press Association in Hastings. The visiting editors all gave praise to this city and its people. The Banner gave, in its issues of June 6 and 13, a brief but very interesting history of Barry County. It gave the names of the Indian tribes who lived here before the white settlers came, and told of the naming of the townships and other matters pertaining to the development of this county. It was prepared by John G. Nagler. Evidently citizens of Hastings were liberal users of city water for the Banner of June 13 said: “Hereafter, when you hear three toots of the water works whistle, you must cease sprinkling lawns, for the water is getting low in the big well.” Judge Smith and P.T. Colgrove spent a good share of last week in Grand Rapids, in the trial of a law suit. They were attorneys for Mr. Brown, who sued Bowne Township, in Kent County, for damages. Three years ago the case was first tried, and the jury gave Brown a verdict of $2,700. The township appealed and a new trial was ordered. It came up for action last week. The result this time was a verdict of $7,000 for the plaintiff. The testimony showed that Mr. Brown drove his team onto a wooden bridge over a small creek in that township. The boards on the floor of the bridge were so rotten that the team broke through and one of the horses was injured. The wagon was overturned and Mr. Brown was so seriously injured that he has been unable to do any work since then and suffers much pain in his limbs. Two graduates of Hastings High School, both of them teachers, Charles Gordon and Albert Eycleshymer, have recently received Ph.D. degrees from Chicago University. Both are now on college faculties; Mr. Eycleshymer on the staff of Chicago University and Mr. Gordon is with the University of Mississippi. We are proud of them. Business men and others became interested and organized a new volunteer [fire] department. So our homes and stores will be protected, possibly not so well for a time, because of inexperience. Some of the old members have joined the new organization. Monday while Orin Rorabeck was standing on the back porch of his home, he was suddenly stricken with apoplexy [stroke]. He is in a very critical condition. – Banner Feb. 7. The same Banner says the thermometer registered 15 below zero that morning. A fire in the home of W.S. Shriner, in the second ward, gave the new department a good test. They responded very well. The Banner of Feb. 14 says: “Fire was discovered Monday in one of the old frame rookeries on the north side of State Street. The new fire department responded quickly and – shall we say fortunately or unfortunately – subdued the flames with very little loss.” The same issue states that the Republican county convention held here last week passed a resolution favoring the use of both gold and silver as money. Several editorials appeared in this paper in 1895, strongly urging bimetalism. That returned to plague the members of that party in 1896, when the free coinage of silver, at the heaven-born ratio of 16-to-1 was the issue, and the Republicans favored the single gold standard. Our numerous heavy snow storms, reports the Banner of Feb. 14, are bearing fruit in delays of trains and the blockading of highways and constant use of snow plows. The CK&S fared badly. Saturday, both the passenger and freight trains were stuck in huge drifts near Milo. Fifty men worked all day Sunday shoveling snow and making a side track so the stalled trains could get started the following day. Friends of D.W. Rogers are congratulating him on his election to another three-year term as secretary of the Barry and Eaton Fire Insurance Co. The Albion Recorder says that Prof. Samuel Dickie, well known in Hastings, now head of Albion College, returned from a trip to Baltimore. Returning, his train was stalled for 46 hours in huge snow drifts in New York state. He had to wade through snow, breast deep on the level, to get to a farm house to obtain provisions for hungry passengers on his train. He says it was the worst storm he had ever seen. Our Prairieville correspondent this week has an interesting account of the school bell that is used by the village school to call the children. It was originally purchased by the government for the Indian reservation, near Cressey, surrounding the Leonard Slater Indian Mission school. When that was abandoned in 1856, the bell was given to Prairieville village school. (It was in use there until the old frame school building was destroyed many years later. The flames were so hot that the bell was melted and completely destroyed. - M.L.C.) Monday evening, Miss Olive Heath gave a very enjoyable musicale at the home of Mr. and Mrs. J.T. Lombard. The program reflected much credit to Miss Heath and her pupils. The Banner of March 7 contained a long interview with H. J. Potter, general passenger and freight agent of the CK&S, relative to the extension of that line to Saginaw. Mr. Potter’s statements proved conclusively that the offi- cers of that road are doing their best to secure the funds needed for that purpose. They have made three surveys from Woodbury to Saginaw. [The Chicago Kalamazoo and Saginaw Railroad had served Hastings since 1888.] The Banner of Feb. 7 stated that the Furniture Co. plant, which had been closed for a year, would be taken over by a new corporation, the Hastings School Furniture Co., which had been organized by outside capitalists for that purpose, with $100,000 capital stock. But it failed to materialize. The Banner of March 10 records the death of a pioneer, Mrs. Nancy Boltwood, 81. Mr. and Mrs. Oliver N. Boltwood located in Hastings in 1850. He was a prominent business man here in the early days. Their home still stands at the corner of Market and Grand streets. He was interested in flour milling here. He died several years before the passing of his widow. Boltwood Street was named in his honor. Mr. and Mrs. Boltwood made their journey from New York state to Michigan in a covered wagon. (To be continued) LEGAL NOTICE FORECLOSURE NOTICE THIS IS A N ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE Default has occurred in a Mortgage made on October 28, 2008 by Madison D. Howell and Linda L. Howell, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, to Hastings City Bank, a Michigan banking corporation, as Mortgagee. The Mortgage was recorded on November 3, 2008 in the Office ofthe Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan in Instrument No. 20081103-0010644. At the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due and unpaid on the Mortgage the sum of One Hundred Thirty Five Thousand Four Hundred Thirty Six and 33/100 Dollars ($135,436.33), including interest at 2.5% per annum. No suit or proceedings have been instituted to recover any part of the debt secured by the Mortgage, and the power of sale contained in the Mortgage has become operative by reason of such default. On Thursday, January 19, 2012, at one o'clock in the afternoon at the east steps ofthe Barry County Courthouse, 220 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan, which is the place for holding mortgage sales for Barry County, Michigan, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder, at public sale, for the purpose of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid upon the Mortgage, together with the legal costs and charges of sale, including attorneys' fees allowed by law, the property located in the Township of Rutland, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and described in the Mortgage as follows: Parcel 1: Beginning at a point on the East line of Section 15, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, Rutland Township, Barry County, Michigan distant South 00 degrees 24 minutes 29 seconds East 199.0 feet from the Northeast corner of said section thence south 00 degrees 24 minutes 29 second East 513.83 feet along said East line, thence North 86 degrees 04 minutes 29 seconds West 220.88 feet, thence North 03 degrees 48 minutes 51 seconds East 17.00 feet, thence North 01 degrees 21 minutes 31 seconds West 482.24 feet; thence South 89 degrees 54 minutes 26 seconds East 227.01 feet to the point of beginning. Together with and subject to a private easement for ingress, egress and public utilities purposes appurtenant thereto for Madilin Lane, subject to a private easement for ingress, egress and public utilities purposes appurtenant thereto for Howell Trail. Howell Trail Easement: A private easement for ingress, egress and public utilities purposes, 66 feet in width, 33 feet each side of a centerline described as: Beginning at a point on the North line of Section 15, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, Rutland Township, Barry County, Michigan, distant North 89 degrees 54 minutes 26 seconds West, 1047.01 feet from the Northeast corner of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 18 minutes 14 second East, 391.89 feet along said centerline, thence South 24 degrees 24 minutes 29 seconds east 70.21 feet along said centerline; thence South 00 degrees 18 minutes 14 seconds East 204.22 feet to the end of said centerline. Madilin Lane Easement: A private easement for ingress, egress and public utilities purposes, 66 feet in width, 33 feet each side of a centerline described as Commencing at the Northeast corner of Section 15, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, Rutland Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence North 89 degrees 54 minutes 26 seconds West 1047.01 feet along the North line of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 18 minutes 14 seconds East 391.89 feet along the centerline of Howell Trail; thence South 24 degrees 24 minutes 29 seconds East 70.21 feet along said centerline; thence South 00 degrees 18 minutes 14 seconds East 171.22 feet along said centerline to the point of beginning of the centerline of Madilin Trail; thence South 89 degrees 54 minutes 26 seconds East 384.45 feet along said centerline; thence South 65 degrees 14 minutes 47 seconds East 122.97 feet along said centerline; thence South 86 degrees 11 minutes 09 seconds East 304.27 feet along said centerline; thence North 03 degrees 48 minutes 51 seconds East 17.00 feet to the end of said centerline and a point hereinafter referred to as reference point "A". Also a circular extension of said easement, a radius of 50 feet centered on aforementioned reference point "A". Parcel 2: Beginning at a point on the East line of Section 15 Town 3 North, Range 9 West, Rutland Township, Barry County, Michigan, distant South 00 degrees 24 minutes 29 seconds East 712.83 feet from the Northeast corner of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 24 minutes 29 seconds East 605.71 feet along said East line; thence North 50 degrees 34 minutes 10 seconds West, 1038.84 feet; thence North 89 degrees 54 minutes 26 seconds West 221.83 feet; thence North 00 degrees 18 minutes 14 seconds West 204.22 feet along the centerline of Howell Lane; thence North 24 degrees 24 minutes 29 seconds West 70.21 feet along said centerline; thence North 00 degrees 18 minutes 14 seconds West 154.27 feet along said centerline; thence South 89 degrees 54 minutes 26 seconds East 241.42 feet; thence North 00 degrees 24 minutes 29 seconds West 38.62 feet; thence South 89 degrees 54 minutes 26 seconds East 78.49 feet; thence South 00 degrees 24 minutes 29 seconds East 428.01 feet to the centerline of Madilin Lane; thence South 89 degrees 54 minutes 26 seconds East 92.50 feet; along said centerline; thence South 65 degrees 14 minutes 47 seconds East 122.97 feet along said centerline; thence South 86 degrees 11 minutes 09 seconds East, 304.27 feet along said centerline; thence South 86 degrees 04 minutes 29 seconds East 220.88 feet to the point of beginning. Together with and subject to a private easement for ingress egress and public utilities purposes appurtenant thereto for Madilin Lane and for Howell Trail. Howell Trail Easement: A private easement for ingress, egress and public utilities purposes, 66 feet in width, 33 feet each side of a centerline described as: Beginning at a point on the North line of Section 15, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, Rutland Township, Barry County, Michigan, distant North 89 degrees 54 minutes 26 seconds West, 1047.01 feet from the Northeast corner of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 18 minutes 14 second East, 391.89 feet along said centerline, thence South 24 degrees 24 minutes 29 seconds east 70.21 feet along said centerline; thence South 00 degrees 18 minutes 14 seconds East 204.22 feet to the end of said centerline. Madilin Lane Easement: A private easement for ingress, egress and public utilities purposes, 66 feet in width, 33 feet each side of a centerline described as Commencing at the Northeast corner of Section 15, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, Rutland Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence North 89 degrees 54 minutes 26 seconds West 1047.01 feet along the North line of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 18 minutes 14 seconds East 391.89 feet along the centerline of Howell Trail; thence South 24 degrees 24 minutes 29 seconds East 70.21 feet along said centerline; thence South 00 degrees 18 minutes 14 seconds East 171.22 feet along said centerline to the point of beginning of the centerline of Madilin Trail; thence South 89 degrees 54 minutes 26 seconds East 384.45 feet along said centerline; thence South 65 degrees 14 minutes 47 seconds East 122.97 feet along said centerline; thence South 86 degrees 11 minutes 09 seconds East 304.27 feet along said centerline; thence North 03 degrees 48 minutes 51 seconds East 17.00 feet to the end of said centerline and a point hereinafter referred to as reference point "A". Also a circular extension of said easement, a radius of 50 feet centered on aforementioned reference point "A". Parcel 3: Commencing at the North VA post of Section 14, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, Rutland Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence North 88 degrees 47 minutes 39 seconds West 425.00 feet along the North line of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 29 minutes 34 seconds West 507.59 feet to the point of beginning; thence South 88 degrees 47 minutes 39 seconds East 24.49 feet to the centerline of a gravel driveway; thence South 29 degrees 45 minutes 48 seconds West 103.85 feet along said centerline; thence continuing Southwesterly along said centerline 159.50 feet along the arc of a curve to the right the radius of which is 924.56 feet and the chord of which bears South 34 degrees 42 minutes 31 seconds West 159.40 feet; thence continuing along said centerline of a gravel driveway South 39 degrees 39 minutes 14 seconds West 183.23 feet to the centerline of Highway M-37; thence North 38 degrees 01 minutes 41 seconds West 647.48 feet along said centerline of Highway M-37; thence North 18 degrees 57 minutes 47 seconds East 59.65 feet to the northeasterly right of way line of Highway M-37; thence South 71 degrees 39 minutes 23 seconds East 647.13 feet to the point of beginning. Together with and subject to an easement of undetermined width to be used in common with others over said gravel driveway. The redemption period shall be one year from the date of the sale unless the property is deemed abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a in which case the redemption period shall be thirty days after the foreclosure sale or when the time to provide the notice required by subdivision MCL 600.324 la(c) expires, whichever is later. MILLER JOHNSON Attorneys for Hastings City Bank Isl Rachel J. Foster Dated: December 12, 2011 By: Rachel J. Foster 303 North Rose Street, Suite 600 Kalamazoo, Michigan 49007 269-226-2982 KZ_DOCS 272179vl 36177.098 77562717 �Page 10 — Thursday, January 5, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE TO CREDITORS Trust In the matter of: Eva I. Payne TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Eva I. Payne who lived at 6699 E. State Road, died December 26, 2011, leaving a certain trust under the name of Eva I. Payne and dated May 13, 2003, wherein the decedent was the Settlor and Michael C. Payne was named as the Trustee serving at the time of or as a result of the decedent’s death. Creditors of the decedent and of the trust are notified that all claims against the decedent or against the trust will be forever barred unless presented to Michael C. Payne, the named Trustee at 5300 N. Shaytown Road, Vermontville, MI 49096 within four months after the date of publication of this notice. Dated: December 28, 2011 Timothy L. Tromp P41571 Attorney at Law 501 West State Street Hastings, MI 49058 269/948-9400 Michael C. Payne Trustee 5300 N. Shaytown Road Vermontville, MI 49096 77564898 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 11-25997-DE Estate of JoAnne Rummins. Date of birth: 08/06/1932. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, JoAnne Rummins, who lived at 1611 Ottawa Trail, Hastings, Michigan died 07/30/2011. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Christine Wood, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West Court St., Suite 302, Hastings and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. 01/04/2012 Julie A. Nakfoor Pratt P41242 202 S. Broadway Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 945-4200 Christine Wood 823 N. East St. Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 948-9309 77564981 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Linda Anaya and David Anaya, wife and husband, original mortgagor(s), to ABN AMRO Mortgage Group, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 1, 2003, and recorded on July 8, 2003 in instrument 1108054, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Three Thousand Four Hundred FortySeven and 90/100 Dollars ($73,447.90), including interest at 5.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on January 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North 1/2 of the following described premises: Beginning 30 rods South of the Northeast corner of the Northwest quarter of Section 17, Town 2 North, Range 10 West, Orangeville Township, Barry County, Michigan, for place of beginning, thence West 80 rods, thence South 10 rods, thence East 80 rods, thence North to the place of beginning. Subject to restrictions, reservations, easements, covenants, oil, gas or mineral rights of record, if any. The redemption period shall be 12 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: December 22, 2011 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #234484F06 77562828 (12-22)(01-12) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE The Mortgage described below is in default: Mortgage (the “Mortgage”) made by Joseph E. Dempsey and Margaret M. Dempsey, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, to United Bank Mortgage Corporation, a Michigan banking corporation, with its address at 900 East Paris Avenue SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49546, as Mortgagee, dated August 30, 2005 and recorded on September 7, 2005, Instrument No.: 1152315, Barry County Records, Barry County, Michigan. The balance owing on the Mortgage is $92,952.34 at the time of this Notice. The Mortgage contains a power of sale and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage, or any part of the Mortgage. TAKE NOTICE that on January 26, 2012, at 1:00 p.m., local time, or any adjourned date thereafter, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, (which is the building where the Circuit Court for Barry County is held). The Mortgagee will apply the sale proceeds to the debt secured by the Mortgage as stated above, plus interest on the amount due at the rate of 4.5% per annum; all legal costs and expenses, including attorneys fees allowed by law; and also any amount paid by the Mortgagee to protect its interest in the property. The property to be sold at foreclosure is all of that real estate situated in the County of Barry, State of Michigan, described as: COMMENCING AT THE CENTER QUARTER POST OF SECTION 18, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, HOPE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN; THENCE SOUTH 660 FEET ALONG THE NORTH-SOUTH QUARTER LINE OF SECTION 18; THENCE EAST 250 FEET PARALLEL WITH THE EAST-WEST QUARTER LINE OF SECTION 18, FOR THE TRUE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE CONTINUING EAST 250 FEET ALONG SAME COURSE; THENCE NORTH 760 FEET MORE OR LESS PARALLEL WITH SAID NORTH-SOUTH QUARTER LINE, TO THE CENTERLINE OF KELLER ROAD; THENCE WESTERLY 260 FEET MORE OR LESS ALONG SAID CENTERLINE; THENCE SOUTH 685 FEET MORE OR LESS, PARALLEL WITH SAID NORTH-SOUTH QUARTER LINE TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. Tax Identification Number: 08-07-018-007-12 The redemption period shall be one (1) year from the date of sale pursuant to MCLA 600.3240(12), unless deemed abandoned and then thirty (30) days pursuant to MCLA 600.3240(11). December 19, 2011 UNITED BANK MORTGAGE CORPORATION, Mortgagee PLUNKETT COONEY KELLI L. BAKER (P49960) Attorney for Mortgagee 333 Bridge Street NW, Suite 530 Grand Rapids, Michigan 49504 (616) 752-4624 (12-22)(01-19) STATE OF MICHIGAN JUDICIAL CIRCUIT - FAMILY DIVISION BARRY COUNTY PUBLICATION OF HEARING CASE NO. 1008169-NA PETITION NO. 10007889 TO: Carmen Newland, whose address to unknown and whose interest in the matter may be barred or affected by the following: IN THE MATTER OF: Michael Keith Moore. A hearing regarding Termination of Parental Rights will be conducted by the court on Friday, January 27, 2012 at 8:30 am EST in Barry County Trial Court, Family Division, 206 W. Court St., 3rd Floor, Hastings, MI 49058 before Honorable William M. Doherty. IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED that Carmen Newland personally appear before the court at the time and place stated above. This hearing may result in the termination of Carmen Newland’s parental rights. 77564989 SYNOPSIS RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP REGULAR BOARD MEETING DECEMBER 14, 2011 - 7:30 P.M. Regular meeting called to order and Pledge of Allegiance. Present: Greenfield, Bellmore, Hawthorne, Carr, Lee, Hanshaw, Flint. Approved the Agenda as presented. Approved the Consent Agenda as presented. Appointed Tracy Baker to the Planning Commission, eff. 1/1/2012. Appointed Stacey Graham to the Joint Planning Alliance, eff. 1/1/2012. Approved Resolution #2011-147, Approval of a small wine maker license to Glass Creek Winery. Approved the prepayment to PLM for Algonquin Lake Weed Control. Denied the Assyria Township request for assessor assistance. Meeting Adjourned at 8:16 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Robin Hawthorne, Clerk Attested to by: Jim Carr, Supervisor www.rutlandtownship.org 77564954 VARNUM LLP Attorneys P.O. Box 352 Grand Rapids, Michigan 49501-0352 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. THIS IS AN OPPORTUNITY TO SAVE YOUR HOME To: Mark J. Doctor and Shannon D. Doctor 3615 Doctor Drive Hastings, MI 49058 County Barry State law requires that you receive the following notice: You have the right to request a meeting with your mortgage holder or mortgage servicer. The person to contact and that has the authority to make agreements for a loan modification with you is: Orlans Associates, P.C Loss Mitigation Department, P.O. Box 5041, Troy, MI 48007-5041, (248) 502-1331. You may contact a housing counselor by visiting the Michigan State Housing Development Authority ("MSHDA") website or by calling MSHDA. The website address and telephone number of MSHDA is: (www.mshda.info/counseling_search/), telephone (517) 373-8370, TTY# 1-800-382-4568. If you request a meeting with the servicer's designate within 14 days after the Notice required under MCL 600.3205a(1) is mailed, then foreclosure proceedings will not start until 90 days after the date the Notice was mailed to you. If you and the servicer's Designate reach an agreement to modify the mortgage loan, the mortgage will not be foreclosed if you abide by the terms of the agreement. You have the right to contact an attorney. You may contact attorney of your choice. If you do not have an attorney, the telephone number for the Michigan State Bar Association's Lawyer Referral Service is 1-800-968-0738. Dated: January 5, 2012 Orlans Associates P.C Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File Number: 393.0702 77564975 (01-05) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE AND SALE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Wyatt Holes, a single man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated June 22, 2007 and recorded July 2, 2007 in Instrument Number 1182465, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Bank of America, N.A., Successor by Merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP FKA Countrywide Home Loans Servicing LP by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety Thousand Eight Hundred Ninety-Eight and 70/100 Dollars ($90,898.70) including interest at 7.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on JANUARY 19, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Village of Freeport, County of Barry Lot 8, Block 2, Village of Freeport, according to the recorded plat thereof in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 22. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: December 22, 2011 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 708.0481 77562833 (12-22)(01-12) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Philip F. Brewer, A Single Man, original mortgagor(s), to Credit Union Mortgage Company, Mortgagee, dated November 10, 2005, and recorded on November 30, 2005 in instrument 1156946, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Member First Family of Companies, LLC as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Nine Thousand Five Hundred Forty-Two and 05/100 Dollars ($89,542.05), including interest at 6.75% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on January 12, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 8 and 9 of Country Acres, according to the Recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats on Page 64. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: December 15, 2011 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #384802F01 77562682 (12-15)(01-05) THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage (the "Mortgage") made by Dean D. Hunt and Amy S. Hunt, husband and wife, mortgagor, to Macatawa Bank, a Michigan banking corporation, having its principal offices at 10753 Macatawa Drive, Holland, Michigan 49424, mortgagee, dated August 2, 2007 and recorded August 15, 2007 at Instrument No. 20070815-0000940. Because of the default, the undersigned has elected to declare the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage immediately due and payable. At the date of this notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of One Hundred Fifty Six Thousand Sixty Six and 25/100 Dollars ($156,066.25). No suit or proceedings at law have been instituted to recover any part of the debt secured by the Mortgage. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay said amount with interest as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including attorney fees allowed by law, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the main entrance of the Courthouse at 220 West State Street in Hastings, Michigan, the place of holding the Circuit Court within Barry County, Michigan, on Thursday, February 2, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. local time. Pursuant to Section 3240(8) of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, as amended, (MCLA 600.3240(8); MSA 27A.3240(8)), the redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of the foreclosure sale, unless the premises are determined to be abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a; MSA 27A.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be thirty (30) days from the date of the sale. The premises covered by said mortgage is commonly known as 394 Riverwood Drive, and is situated in the Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, described as follows: Lot 42, Bryanwood Estates, Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats, Page 14. Dated: December 29, 2011 Macatawa Bank, a Michigan banking corporation, Mortgagee Varnum LLP Donald A. Snide, Esq. Attorneys for Mortgagee P.O. Box 352 Grand Rapids, Michigan 49501-0352 (616) 336-6000 77564757 #4825064_1.DOC THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Leslie Depriester, a single woman, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Wilmington Finance, Inc., Mortgagee, dated November 16, 2006 and recorded November 29, 2006 in Instrument Number 1173241, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by The Bank of New York Mellon, as Trustee for CIT Mortgage Loan Trust 2007-1 by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Nine Thousand Five Hundred Four and 34/100 Dollars ($89,504.34) including interest at 4% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on JANUARY 26, 2012. Said premises are located in the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing 20 rods South of the Southwest corner of Lot 1331, City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan; thence East 10 rods; thence South 4 rods; thence West 10 rods; thence North 4 rods to beginning. City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, being in the Northeast corner of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 19, Town 3 North, Range 8 West. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: December 29, 2011 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 676.0953 77564771 (12-29)(01-19) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Douglas R Macleod, a married man and Kathleen A Macleod a married woman, original mortgagor(s), to ABN AMRO Mortgage Group, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 22, 2005, and recorded on June 6, 2005 in instrument 1147693, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Five Thousand Nine Hundred Eighty-Nine and 57/100 Dollars ($105,989.57), including interest at 3.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on January 12, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Part of Lot 5 of Assessor's Plat No. 4 of Middleville, Subdivision of Parts of the Southeast 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 23, and the Northeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 26, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, according to the recorded plat thereof as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 10, and part of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 23, described as: Beginning at a point which is 73.5 feet East of the Northwest corner of said Lot 5, said point also being 271.5 feet East of the East line of Block 26 of Keeler Addition to the Village of Middleville, according to the recorded plat thereof, said point also being on the South line of Fremont Street; thence East 165 feet, more or less, to a point which is 162 feet West of the West line of Old Fellows Cemetary; thence South 126.0 feet; thence West 170 feet more or less to a point which is 264.0 feet East of the East line of said Block 26; thence North 126.0 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: December 15, 2011 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #259798F03 77562733 (12-15)(01-05) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Steven M. Onderlinde, Cindy K. Onderlinde, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to First Indiana Bank, N.A., Mortgagee, dated June 25, 2002, and recorded on July 9, 2002 in instrument 1083452, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Five Thousand Five Hundred Ninety-Eight and 98/100 Dollars ($95,598.98), including interest at 4.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on February 2, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Delton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 39 of Lakewood Estates, according to the recorded Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 4 of Plats, Page 19. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #393539F01 77564963 (01-05)(01-26) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Tony Waldren and Teresa Waldren, Husband and Wife to Ameriquest Mortgage Company, Mortgagee, dated February 1, 2005 and recorded February 17, 2005 in Instrument # 1141580 and modified by Agreement dated February 1, 2005 and recorded October 12, 2006 in Instrument # 1171313 Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage was assigned to: Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for ABFC 2005-AQ1 Trust, Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2005-AQ1, by assignment dated December 1, 2011 and recorded on December 9, 2011 in Instrument # 201112090011604 Barry County Records on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fourteen Thousand Seventy-Four Dollars and Ten Cents ($114,074.10) including interest 2% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on January 19, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land in the West one-seventh of the Southeast onequarter of Section 16, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, described as commencing at the South one-quarter post of the Southeast one-quarter, thence North 2 rods thence West 2 rods for place of beginning, thence North 10 rods, thence West 11 rods, thence South 10 rods, thence East 8 rods to place of beginning. Commonly known as 1258 Woodruff Rd, Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later. Dated: 12/22/2011 Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for ABFC 2005-AQ1 Trust, Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2005-AQ1, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File 77562866 No: 11-49457 (12-22)(01-12) NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. Notwithstanding, if the debt secured by this property was discharged in a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy proceeding, this notice is NOT an attempt to collect that debt. You are presently in default under your Mortgage Security Agreement, and the Mortgage Holder may be contemplating the commencement of foreclosure proceedings under the terms of that Agreement and Michigan law. You have no legal obligation to pay amounts due under the discharged note. A loan modification may not serve to revive that obligation. However, in the event you wish to explore options that may avert foreclosure, please contact our office at the number listed below. Attention: The following notice shall apply only if the property encumbered by the mortgage described below is claimed as a principal residence exempt from tax under section 7cc of the general property tax act, 1893 PA 206, MCL 211.7cc. Attention Lisa Jocis, regarding the property at 6359 N Noffke Dr Caledonia, MI 49316. The following notice does not apply if you have previously agreed to modify the mortgage loan under section 3205b. 3205a, 3205b and 3205c do not apply unless the terms of the modified mortgage loan entered into were complied with for one year after the date of the modification. You have the right to request a meeting with your mortgage holder or mortgage servicer. Potestivo & Associates, P.C. is the designee with authority to make agreements under MCL 600.3205b and MCL 600.3205c, and can be contacted at: 811 South Blvd., Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123. You may also contact a housing counselor. For more information, contact the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) by visiting www.michigan.gov/mshda or calling (866) 946-7432. If you request a meeting with Potestivo & Associates, P.C. within 14 days after the notice required under MCL 600.3205a(1) is mailed, then foreclosure proceedings will not commence until at least 90 days after the date said notice was mailed. If an agreement to modify the mortgage loan is reached and you abide by the terms of the agreement, the mortgage will not be foreclosed. You have the right to contact an attorney and can obtain contact information through the State Bar of Michigan’s Lawyer Referral Service at (800) 968-0738. Dated: January 5, 2012. Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 information may be faxed to (248)267-3004, Attention: Loss Mitigation Our File No: 11-54746 (01-05) 77564979 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 5, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Daniel A. Rademacher, a married man, and Michelle L. Rademacher, his wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns., Mortgagee, dated September 23, 2005 and recorded October 3, 2005 in Instrument Number 1153753, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Bank of America, N.A., as successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. FKA Countrywide Home Loans Servicing L.P by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Forty-Two Thousand One Hundred Sixty-Two and 48/100 Dollars ($242,162.48) including interest at 6.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on FEBRUARY 2, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the Township of Irving, County of Barry, State of Michigan: The Northwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4, Section 1, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, Excepting therefrom the North 965 Also Except: Commencing at the Southwest corner of Section 1, Town 4 North, Range 9 West; thence North 00 degrees 28 minutes 41 seconds East, 1319.95 feet along the West line of said Section 1; thence South 89 degrees 37 minutes 50 seconds East, 467.00 feet along the North line of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of said Section 1 to the point of beginning; thence North 79 degrees 46 minutes 56 seconds East, 115.13 feet, thence North 00 degrees 07 minutes 50 seconds West, 26.00 feet; thence North 89 degrees 52 mintues 09 seconds, East, 729.23 feet; thence South 00 degrees 31 minutes 24 seconds West, 53.52 feet along the East line of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of said Section 1; Thence North 89 degrees 37 minutes 50 seconds West, 842.00 feet along the North line of the Southwest 1/4 of the southwest 1/4 of said section 1 to the point of beginning The redemption period shall be 12 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: January 5, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 617.9998 77564968 (01-05)(01-26) THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Robert Wynsma, an unmarried man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated May 28, 2003 and recorded June 4, 2003 in Instrument Number 1105795, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Mortgage Center LLC by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Eight Thousand One Hundred Seventy-Seven and 22/100 Dollars ($78,177.22) including interest at 5.75% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on JANUARY 12, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The land referred to in this Commitment, situated in the County of Barry, Township of Thornapple, State of Michigan, is described as follows: Commencing at the South 1/4 post of Section 3, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, Thornapple Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence East on the South Section line 11 rods to the point of beginning; thence North 440 feet, more or less, to former railroad Right-of-Way; thence Southeasterly along former railroad Right-of-Way to section line; thence West on said South line 330 feet, more or less, to the point of beginning, EXCEPT that part described as commencing at the South 1/4 corner of said Section 3; thence East 27 rods and 20 links along the South Section line; thence North 7 rods and 6 links to the Southwesterly line of the MCRR, and the true point of beginning; thence South 7 rods and 6 links to Section line; thence West 6 rods and 1 link along Section line; thence North 14 rods and 19 links to the Southwesterly line of the MCRR; thence Southeasterly along said Southwesterly line of MCRR to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: December 15, 2011 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 393.0684 77562693 (12-15)(01-05) THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Frederic J. Saint Amour, II, a married man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated October 4, 2005 and recorded October 10, 2005 in Instrument Number 1154234, and Affidavit to Expunge Sheriff's Deed recorded on 04/09/2010 Instrument Number 201004090003783, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, National Association, as Trustee, fka The Bank of New York Trust Company, N.A., as Trustee, as successor to JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A. as Trustee for RAMP 2006RS1 by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twelve Thousand Two Hundred Three and 41/100 Dollars ($112,203.41) including interest at 4.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on JANUARY 26, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Real property in the Township of Rutland, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and is described as follows: Commencing at the Northwest corner of CraigGarwood Plat, thence North 1 degree, 44 minutes East 150 feet to the point of beginning; thence South 88 degrees 16 minutes East 83 feet; thence 48 degrees, 14 minutes East 125 feet; thence North 1 degree, 44 minutes East 207.3 feet; thence North 40 degrees, 16 minutes West 33 feet to a point in the center of Hammond Road; thence in a South and West direction to the point of beginning; being the Southeast 1/4 of Section 1, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, Rutland Township, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: December 29, 2011 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 530.1286 77564752 (12-29)(01-19) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: James E. Richard and Tammy A. Richard, Husband and Wife to Mortagge Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Flagstar Bank, FSB, a Federally Chartered Savings Bank, its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated April 30, 2008 and recorded May 8, 2008 in Instrument # 20080508-0004963 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: Flagstar Bank, FSB., by assignment dated September 30, 2011 and recorded October 13, 2011in Instrument # 201110130009587 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty Thousand Five Hundred Four Dollars and Seventy-Three Cents ($120,504.73) including interest 5.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on January 26, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Part of Lots 11 and 24 of Culbert's Plat No. 3, and land adjacent to Culbert's Plat No. 3 in Section 33, T4N R8W, Carlton Township, Barry County, Michigan, Commencing at the North one-quarter post of said Section 33, Thence South 00 degrees 51 minutes West 501.87 feet (501.87 measured) Thence North 88 degrees 51 minutes West 440 feet (North 88 degrees 55 minutes West 439.91 measured) thence South 00 degrees 51 minutes West 312.50 feet (312.72 measured) The South line of said Lot 24, Thence North 88 degrees 51 minutes West 96.21 feet (96.40 measured) to the Southwest corner of said Lot 24, Thence North 12 degrees 21 minutes West 238.55 feet (238.23 measured) to the Northwest corner of said Lot 24, Thence North 24 degrees 40 minutes West 50.24 feet (North 24 degrees 38 minutes West 50.34 measured) along the Easterly line of said Lot 11, Thence South 80 degrees 42 minutes West 185.65 feet (185.70 measured) to the Westerly line of said Lot 11, Thence North 24 degrees 40 minutes West (North 24 degrees 36 minutes West measured) 71.79 feet to the Northwest corner of Lot 11, Thence North 65 degrees 20 minutes East (North 65 degrees 16 minutes East measured) 9.90 feet thence South 88 degrees 51 minutes East (South 88 degrees 55 minutes East measured) 377.18 feet to the place of beginning, Barry County Records. Commonly known as 39 Culbert Dr, Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later. Dated: 12/29/2011 Flagstar Bank, FSB. Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our 77564779 File No: 11-48201 (12-29)(01-19) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Joseph A Lively, a married man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registrations Systems, Inc., as nominee for Centennial Mortgage and Funding, Inc. its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated December 14, 2007, and recorded on December 20, 2007 in instrument 20071220-0005400, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eighty Thousand Four Hundred Sixty-Seven and 66/100 Dollars ($180,467.66), including interest at 5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on January 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel 1: A parcel of land in the Southeast 1/4 of Section 18, Town 1 North, Range 9 West, described as: beginning at a point on the East and West 1/4 Line of said Section 18, which lies 1955 feet due West of the East 1/4 post of said Section 18, Thence South 225 feet; thence West 175 feet; thence North 225 feet; thence 175 feet to the place of beginning. Parcel 2: Commencing at a point on the East and West 1/4 line of Section 18, Town 1 North, Range 9 West, which lies 1825 feet West of the East 1/4 post of said Section 18; thence South at right angels to said East and West 1/4 line 225 feet; thence West parallel with said East and West 1/4 line 130 feet; thence North 225 feet to said East and West 1/4; thence East 130 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: December 22, 2011 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #379217F01 77562771 (12-22)(01-12) THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Vincent J. Ramirez and Rhea R. Ramirez, husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated May 28, 2003 and recorded June 13, 2003 in Instrument Number 1106422, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP FKA Countrywide Home Loans Servicing LP by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Eight Thousand Two Hundred Sixty-Eight and 7/100 Dollars ($208,268.07) including interest at 5.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on JANUARY 19, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the Township of Johnstown, in the County of Barry, State of Michigan A parcel of land in the Northwest 1/4 of Section 30, Town 1 North, Range 8 West, Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, described as follows: Commencing at the Northwest corner of Section 30, Town 1 North, Range 8 West, Johnstown Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence South 00 degrees 27 minutes 09 seconds East, along the West line of said Section 30, a distance of 460.24 feet; thence North 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East, along the South line of West Beach Drive as shown on the plat of "West Beach" and recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, on Page 67, in the Office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, a distance of 700.00 feet to the true point of beginning; thence continuing North 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East, along said South line of West Beach Drive, 605.05 feet; thence South 55 degrees 50 minutes 00 seconds East, along said South line of West Beach Drive 223.88 feet to the intersection of said South line of West Beach Drive with the West line of Eleanor Avenue as shown on said plat of "West Beach", thence South 34 degrees 10 minutes 00 seconds West, along said West line of Eleanor Avenue 243.27 feet to the North line of the South 418.00 feet of the North 52 acres (so called) off the North side of the Northwest fractional 1/4; thence North 87 degrees 50 minutes 37 seconds West, along said North line, 654.14 feet; thence North 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West, 302.40 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 12 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: December 22, 2011 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 708.0514 77562842 (12-22)(01-12) THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by James F Rix, husband and, and Karen K Rix, wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for USAA Federal Savings Bank its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated November 17, 2006 and recorded November 27, 2006 in Instrument Number 1173160, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by GMAC Mortgage, LLC by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eighty-Seven Thousand Four Hundred Thirty-Four and 59/100 Dollars ($187,434.59) including interest at 6.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on JANUARY 26, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land located in the Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, State of Michigan, and described as follows: Unit 8 of Bay Meadow Condominium, a condominium according to the Master Deed recorded in document Number 1052228, and amendments thereto, if any, in Barry County Register of Deeds and designated as Condominium Subdivision Plan Number 19. Together with rights in the limited common elements and general common elements, as set forth in said Master Deed and described in Act 59 of The Public Acts of Michigan of 1978, as amended. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: December 29, 2011 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 703.1158 77564766 (12-29)(01-19) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by BRIAN M. SCHAEFER and SARA M. SCHAEFER, husband and wife (collectively, "Mortgagor"), to GREENSTONE FARM CREDIT SERVICES, FLCA, a federally chartered corporation, having an office at 3515 West Road, East Lansing, Michigan 48823 (the "Mortgagee"), dated March 29, 2006, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on March 30, 2006, as Instrument No. 1161954, as amended by an affidavit of correction dated March 1, 2007, recorded March 30, 2007, as Instrument No. 1178100, Barry County Records (the "Mortgage"). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgage Electronic Registration System (MERS) is not the sole foreclosing party. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Forty Two Thousand Seven Hundred Twenty Six and 01/100 Dollars ($42,726.01). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public venue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 19th day of January, 2012, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the Township of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: parcel of land in the Northwest 1/4 of Section 13, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, described as: Beginning at the North 1/4 corner of said Section 13; thence South 00°00'00" West, 544.50 feet along the North and South 1/4 line of said Section 13; thence North 89°24'35" West, 400.00 feet parallel with the North line of said Northwest 1/4 of Section 13; thence North 00°00'00" East, 544.50 feet to said North Section line; thence South 89°24'35" East, 400.00 feet along said Section line to the point of beginning. Subject to an easement for public highway purposes over the Northerly 33 feet thereof for East State Road. Together with all fixtures, tenements, hereditaments, and appurtenances belonging or in any way appertaining to the premises. Commonly known as: 4406 E. State Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058 P.P. #08-06-013-010-10 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be one (1) year from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. Dated: December 22, 2011 G R E E N S T O N E FARM CREDIT SERVICES, FLCA Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2489 (616) 752-2000 77562847 5724104-1 NOTICE PURSUANT TO MCL 600.3205a(4) NOTICE is hereby provided to Richard Stafford and Kathy Stafford, the borrowers and/or mortgagors (hereinafter "Borrower") regarding the property located at: 11607 Fair Lake Dr, Delton, MI 49046-9539. The Borrower has the right to request a meeting with the mortgage holder or mortgage servicer. The agent designated by the Mortgage Servicer and/or Mortgage Holder to contact and that has authority to make agreements under MCL sections 600.3205b and 600.3205c is: Trott & Trott, P.C., 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200, Farmington Hills, MI 48334-2525 at (248) 593-1311 The Borrower may contact a housing counselor by visiting the Michigan State Housing Development Authority's website or by calling the Michigan State Housing Development Authority at http:// www.michigan.gov/mshda or at (866) 946-7432. If the Borrower requests a meeting with the agent designated above by contacting an approved housing counselor within 14 days from December 30, 2011, foreclosure proceedings will not be commenced until 90 days after December 30, 2011. If the Borrower and the agent designated above reach an agreement to modify the mortgage loan, the mortgage will not be foreclosed if the Borrower abides by the terms of the agreement. The Borrower has the right to contact an attorney. The telephone number of the State Bar of Michigan's Lawyer Referral Service is (800) 9680738. THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. Date: January 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer and/or Mortgage Holder 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334-2525 File # 393307F01 77564910 (01-05) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Barbara A. Dykstra and D. David Dykstra, wife and husband, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated September 2, 2009, and recorded on September 8, 2009 in instrument 200909080009019, and assigned by said Mortgagee to U.S. Bank National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Three Hundred Sixty-Five Thousand Four Hundred Ninety-One and 02/100 Dollars ($365,491.02), including interest at 5.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on January 12, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 73, Boulder creek Estates, Thornapple Township, Barry County, Michigan, as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats, on Pages 23 through 31, inclusive Barry County Records. Also: Parcel A: Part of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 16, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, Thornapple Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Commencing at the East 1/4 corner of said Section 16; thence South 00 degrees 12 minutes 58 seconds West 1319.53 feet along the East line of said Southeast 1/4; thence South 89 degrees 51 minutes 43 seconds West 282.00 feet along the South line of the Northwest 1/4 of said Southeast 1/4 to the place of beginning of this description; thence South 89 degrees 51 minutes 43 seconds West 385.53 feet along said South line; thence North 00 degrees 18 minutes 00 seconds East 1137.65 feet along the West line of the East 1/2 of the Northeast 1/4 of said Southeast 1/4 and the East line of Boulder creek Estates, according to the recorded plat thereof in Liber 6 of Plats, on Page 23 through 31, inclusive; thence North 89 degrees 48 minutes 31 seconds East 383.86 feet parallel with the North line of said Southeast 1/4; thence South 00 degrees 12 minutes 58 seconds West 1138.00 feet along the West line of the East 282.00 feet of the Northeast 1/4 of said Southeast 1/4 to the place of beginning. Parcel B: Part of the Southeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4, Section 16, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, Thornapple Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Beginning at the East 1/4 corner of said Section 16; thence South 00 degrees 12 minutes 58 seconds West 1319.53 feet along the East line of said Southeast 1/4; thence South 89 degrees 51 minutes 43 seconds West 282.00 feet along the South line of the Northeast 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4; thence North 00 degrees 12 minutes 58 seconds East 1138.00 feet; thence South 89 degrees 48 minutes 31 seconds West 383.86 feet parallel with the North line of said Southeast 1/4; thence North 00 degrees 18 minutes 00 seconds East 181.27 feet along the West line of the East 1/2 of the Northeast 1/4 of said Southeast 1/4 and the East line of Boulder Creek Estates according to the recorded plat thereof in Liber 6 of Plats, on Page 23 throught 31, inclusive; ; thence North 00 degrees 16 minutes 32 seconds East 1311.94 feet along the West line of the East 1/2 of the Southeast 1/4 of said Northeast 1/4 and the East line of Boulder Creek Estates; thence North 89 degrees 55 minutes 50 seconds East 663.46 feet along the North line of the Southeast 1/4 of said Northeast 1/4; thence South 00 degrees 10 minutes 58 seconds West 1310.51 feet along the East line of said Northeast 1/4 to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 12 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: December 15, 2011 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #383861F03 77562703 (12-15)(01-05) �Page 12 — Thursday, January 5, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Daniel Dykstra and Barbara Dykstra, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to ABN AMRO Mortgage Group, Inc., Mortgagee, dated November 14, 2003, and recorded on April 23, 2004 in instrument 1126298, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Nine Thousand Three Hundred Twenty-Nine and 17/100 Dollars ($109,329.17), including interest at 3% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on January 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 19, Hidden Hollow No. 1, as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats, Page 19. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: December 22, 2011 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #165387F03 77562765 (12-22)(01-12) Call anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads 269-945-9554 NOTICE PURSUANT TO MCL 600.3205a(4) NOTICE is hereby provided to Nathanael J McNabb, the borrowers and/or mortgagors (hereinafter "Borrower") regarding the property located at: 125 W Bond St, Hastings, MI 49058-2202. The Borrower has the right to request a meeting with the mortgage holder or mortgage servicer. The agent designated by the Mortgage Servicer and/or Mortgage Holder to contact and that has authority to make agreements under MCL sections 600.3205b and 600.3205c is: Trott & Trott, P.C., 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200, Farmington Hills, MI 48334-2525 at (248) 593-1301 The Borrower may contact a housing counselor by visiting the Michigan State Housing Development Authority's website or by calling the Michigan State Housing Development Authority at http:// www.michigan.gov/mshda or at (866) 946-7432. If the Borrower requests a meeting with the agent designated above by contacting an approved housing counselor within 14 days from December 30, 2011, foreclosure proceedings will not be commenced until 90 days after December 30, 2011. If the Borrower and the agent designated above reach an agreement to modify the mortgage loan, the mortgage will not be foreclosed if the Borrower abides by the terms of the agreement. The Borrower has the right to contact an attorney. The telephone number of the State Bar of Michigan's Lawyer Referral Service is (800) 9680738. THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. Date: January 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer and/or Mortgage Holder 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334-2525 File # 385144F02 77564895 (01-05) NOTICE PURSUANT TO MCL 600.3205a(4) NOTICE is hereby provided to Daniel Vandecar, the borrowers and/or mortgagors (hereinafter "Borrower") regarding the property located at: 173 S Main St, Woodland, MI 48897-9701. The Borrower has the right to request a meeting with the mortgage holder or mortgage servicer. The agent designated by the Mortgage Servicer and/or Mortgage Holder to contact and that has authority to make agreements under MCL sections 600.3205b and 600.3205c is: Trott & Trott, P.C., 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200, Farmington Hills, MI 48334-2525 at (248) 593-1311 The Borrower may contact a housing counselor by visiting the Michigan State Housing Development Authority's website or by calling the Michigan State Housing Development Authority at http:// www.michigan.gov/mshda or at (866) 946-7432. If the Borrower requests a meeting with the agent designated above by contacting an approved housing counselor within 14 days from December 30, 2011, foreclosure proceedings will not be commenced until 90 days after December 30, 2011. If the Borrower and the agent designated above reach an agreement to modify the mortgage loan, the mortgage will not be foreclosed if the Borrower abides by the terms of the agreement. The Borrower has the right to contact an attorney. The telephone number of the State Bar of Michigan's Lawyer Referral Service is (800) 9680738. THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. Date: January 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer and/or Mortgage Holder 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334-2525 File # 392701F01 77564973 (01-05) Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 For Sale National Ads Help Wanted AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is deceptive, fraudulent or might otherwise violate law or accepted standards of taste. However, this publication does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the quality of goods or services advertised. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made in any advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you ask for money in advance of delivery of goods or services advertised. Automotive Card of Thanks WANTED: Member Service Rep/Loan Officer. immediate opening for a full-time MSR/Loan Officer for a local credit union. Ideal applicant will process over the counter teller transactions, cross-sell products, interview, process and close consumer loans. Prior teller and loan officer experience required. Applicant must have the ability to multi-task in a fast paced environment and have proven track record of loan officer authority. Application forms may be obtained at Grand Valley CoOp Credit union, 329 N. Michigan, Hastings, MI or emailed to: cmccombs@gvccu.org. EOE RICK TAYLOR’S DETAIL WORKS. Auto cleaning service. Hours: 8am-5pm. (269)948-0958. THANK YOU Dear friends and neighbors, many thanks for making my 98th birthday so special with your cards and loving wishes. You are dear to my heart, God bless you! Ruth Lechleitner CENTRAL BOILER ECLASSIC- Outdoor Wood Furnace. Less time, less mess. Fewer emissions. EPA qualified. 97% efficient. Sale SOS your “Stocking Dealer” Dutton. MI (616)554-8669 or (6126)915-5061. Estate Sale Business Services BOOKKEEPING SERVICES Personal * Self-Employed * Small Business Payroll * Billing Accounts Receivable * Accounts Payable General Ledger Weekly * Monthly * Quarterly * Annually Call today! (269)420-5714 Pets FOUND BLUETICK HOUND, M66/79, (269)9453333. DO YOU WANT QUALITY PRINTING at affordable prices? Call J-Ad Graphics at (269)945-9554. PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 Recreation WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are interested in leasing acreage for this years deer season. Call (269)795-3049 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Robert E. Thomas, Jr. and Pamela L. Thomas, Husband and Wife as Joint Tenants, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 19, 2005, and recorded on September 19, 2005 in instrument 1153031, and assigned by said Mortgagee to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eighteen Thousand Three Hundred Fifty-Nine and 17/100 Dollars ($118,359.17), including interest at 6.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on February 2, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 44 of the plat of melody acres, according to the recorded plat thereof as recorded in liber 5 of plats on page 21, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #354739F02 77564958 (01-05)(01-26) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Mark G. Pennock and Leigh E. Pennock, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated November 26, 2002, and recorded on December 2, 2002 in instrument 1092770, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Midfirst Bank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thousand Seven Hundred Fifty-Four and 02/100 Dollars ($100,754.02), including interest at 5.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on January 12, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Freeport, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 3 of Block 1 of Samuel Roush's Addition to the Village of Freeport, according to the recorded plat thereof as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, on Page 23. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: December 15, 2011 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #344833F02 77562698 (12-15)(01-05) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Andrew D. Roush and Kristina E. Roush, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Sand Ridge Bank, Mortgagee, dated March 29, 2005, and recorded on April 4, 2005 in instrument 1144269, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Seven Thousand Eight Hundred Forty-Four and 74/100 Dollars ($87,844.74), including interest at 5.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on January 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 29, Orsemus A. Philips addition, to the Village of Nashville, according to the recorded Plat therof as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats on Page 19, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: December 22, 2011 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #389797F01 77562777 (12-22)(01-12) POLICE BEAT Woman ‘cries wolf’ during argument Trail cameras don’t lead to thieves Hastings Police were called to the scene of a loud argument Dec. 28 in the 700 block of East Grand Street. Upon arrival, officers observed broken glass next to a door that also was broken. A woman inside the home was heard yelling “Quit hitting me” and “Get off of me” and “Let me go.” Officers knocked loudly, but got no response, except for lights being turned off. The screaming continued, so officers forced their way into the home. The investigation revealed that the woman had yelled what she had because she knew that anyone hearing it would call police or that officers would simply walk in. According to both parties in the home only a verbal disagreement had been taking place. There were no signs of an assault by either individual. The female was cautioned about crying wolf, along with the safety reasons involved. She said she understood. A man reported the theft of six trail cameras from his Lawrence Road property near Nashville. He told deputies Dec. 27 he has had trail cameras stolen in the past but did not report them. When three more, with a value of approximately $600, were taken, he chose to report the theft. The man said he had already checked with pawn shops in Battle Creek and Hastings, with no success. The caller said his neighbor had seen a suspicious red vehicle in the area about the time the cameras went missing. The witness said three older teens parked a vehicle and were walking on the property near the complainant’s property. The case is inactive. Suspect caught after damaging vehicle Hastings officers received a complaint of a malicious destruction of property to a car at the BP Gas Station located North Broadway and Woodlawn Avenue Jan. 2 just after noon. According to the caller, a customer had witnessed someone damaging the station owner’s car. The owner found several scratches on the vehicle. The officer was given a good description of the individual responsible, shown video of the incident, and told the registration plate number that the witness had obtained from the suspect’s car. The suspect was tracked down and interviewed. The report will be forwarded to the prosecutors office for review of any formal charges. Homeowner catches B&E trio in the act Hastings Officers were called Dec. 28 to an alleged illegal entering of a garage on the 500 block of East South Street. The homeowner said he had came out of his home and apparently interrupted three individuals while they were attempting to break into his garage. Upon seeing the homeowner, all three subjects fled the scene. Police arriving in the area saw two individuals, one of them meeting the clothing description of the fleeing suspects. As officers approached the subjects, one fled, the other was stopped by police. The homeowner identified the captured suspect as one of the invaders. Further investigation at the home and garage revealed the garage had been entered and a screen on the home had been cut. The remaining suspects were found at a nearby house. The two other suspects were questioned, one being arrested on an outstanding warrant. The remaining intruder confessed the three had attempted the break in. Formal arrest warrants for breaking and entering were approved for two of the suspects. Charges for the third suspect are pending. Jewelry stolen from Nashville home Barry County Deputies were dispatched Dec. 15 to a residence on M-66 in Nashville on a reported breaking and entering. The homeowner said he found a door open when he got home. Deputies said the door was not damaged and forced entry was not evident. The man and his wife found jewelry on the floor and noticed two jewelry boxes missing, along with a watch and some cash from bedrooms. There are no suspects and the case remains open. Daughter’s friend goes on shopping spree Hastings Police were dispatched Dec. 28 on a report of a stolen credit card used at an automated teller machine in Hastings. The caller, who resides in Hastings, told officers he had given his credit card to his daughter to purchase gifts, adding that he had told her the personal identification number while his daughter’s friend was present. Several days later, the card was missing. After reporting the missing card, the man learned transactions had been made. An interview revealed the daughter’s friend had used the card on purchases totaling about $1,000. The 17year-old friend admitted the money had been used for Christmas gifts, food and gasoline. The report was sent to the prosecutor’s office for review. Local debit card used to send gifts to NYC A Bellevue woman reported eight unauthorized online purchases to her Fifth Third debit card. When reporting the fraudulent use Dec. 14, she told deputies she had contacted the bank canceled the card after finding $955 in strange charges. One charge from Pottery Barn shows a delivery to New York City. Other charges were to L.L. Bean and Ourtime.com. There are no suspects, but the case remains open. Boyfriend gets catty over comment Deputies were called to a Middleville area home Dec. 24 on a reported domestic assault. A woman said she was working at home on the computer when one of her boyfriend’s cats jumped on the computer and she said something. The woman said her boyfriend is protective of his cats and became angry about her comment. She told deputies he started screaming and telling her she had to move out of the home. While the woman was lying on the couch, the man allegedly flipped the couch over. She then grabbed her purse and keys and went outside. The boyfriend followed and told her if she called the police he would kill her. She did call and waited for deputies. When asked about weapons in the house, the woman told deputies there were rifles and ammunition in the garage and a handgun near the bed’s headboard. The man would not respond to deputies when they knocked on the door. Deputies returned to the residence Dec. 25. The house was dark, but they saw lights and heard noise from the garage. The 41-year-old man was talking on the phone about the previous night’s incident. When deputies asked to speak with him, the subject closed and locked the garage door. He would not go to the door and deputies left a business card and a request for the man to contact them. As of the report, the man had not contacted deputies. The case has been turned over to the prosecutor’s office and remains open. Husband may have double standard A woman contacted deputies Christmas Eve to report being attacked by her husband. The couple have been separated for two months, but still live in the same Loop Drive residence near Middleville. The woman said she had spent the evening at her sister’s. Arriving back home, she said her husband was there and had been drinking. She told deputies that later that night, she was sleeping in her bedroom and her husband came in and started yelling at her, asking if she was having an affair. She said the man had searched her clothes and found her phone. The woman said she got out of bed and went downstairs, then outside, and her husband continued to follow her to the driveway. Allegedly, the man pushed her to the ground twice before she was able to go back inside and call 911. She said her husband has been seeing another woman for the past seven months. The case remains open and has been forwarded to the prosecutor’s office. Middleville woman dishes it out Deputies responded to a call Jan. 1 from a man who said he had been attacked by his wife in their Middleville home. When deputies arrived, the man said he impulsively called 911 when his allegedly intoxicated wife broke several dishes and slapped him. He said they had an argument, but everything was fine. A blood-alcohol test on the man registered .04 percent, and the woman’s was .167 percent. The 39-year-old woman admitted she has been drinking more since her mother died last year. The case remains open and is pending prosecutor review. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 5, 2012 — Page 13 TK holds Hastings to 31 points for Gold victory by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Hastings has won every game it’s played outside the O-K Gold Conference this winter. Inside the league though, the Saxons are off to an 1-2 start. Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity boys’ basketball team scored a 40-31 win over the host Saxons Tuesday, holding the Saxons to just two points in the final five and a half minutes. “They played better than we did. Simple as that,” said Hastings head coach Don Schils. The Trojans led by as many as 11 points in the first half, as they did a good job of finding senior center Caden Francisco in the paint. He finished with a game-high 13 points. “He showed up,” TK head coach Mike Rynearson said of Francisco. “Obviously, they were keying on Greg (Hamilton) and more teams are going to do that. We’ve got to have people like Caden step up. We’ve got to have some of our guards make some shots from the outside and take a little pressure off Greg. But, when you hold a team to 31 you’ve got a pretty good chance of winning.” Hamilton chipped in ten points for TK and Nolff finished with six. Francisco scored eight of his team’s first 15 points, and the TK lead was as large as 20-9 midway through the second quarter as the Saxons struggled to put the ball in the basket. “We were very tentative at the beginning of The Saxons’ Maxwell Clark flips up a shot in between Trojan defenders Greg Hamilton (12) and Brendon Hudson. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Saxon guard Danny Buehler knocks down Thornapple Kellogg’s Grant Allison on his way to the basket for two points in the second quarter Tuesday night. (Photo by Brett Bremer) the game. I think a lot of that had to do with nerves, especially when a few of our easier shots didn’t go in it seemed like we got a little more uptight,” Schils said. “I think Middleville played extremely well. They run their stuff very well. They got the ball to the people they wanted to at the right times. They ran their stuff better than we ran ours.” Hastings slowly whittled down the lead in the second half until back-to-back buckets by Keith Garber finally tied the game at 29-29. Garber and Danny Buehler tied for the Saxon scoring lead with ten points each, doing most of their damage by attacking the basket with the dribble. A long outlet pass from TK’s DJ Nolff to teammate Brendan Hudson turned into a TK lay-up with 4:10 left to play, giving the Trojans the lead back and they never let it go. TK stretched its lead back to 37-29 before Garber scored the final points for the Saxons with just over a minute and a half left to play. The Trojans were 5-of-8 at the foul-line in the fourth quarter to close out the win. “Coming over here to Hastings you know they play physical,” Rynearson said. “They play real physical, so we worked on over Christmas break trying to be physical ourselves.” “We did a great job of keeping our man in front. They did miss a lot of shots, six feet in, but I think our defense always had a hand up altering that shot. I thought we did a pretty good job on the boards. Then we hit some free throws down the stretch that kind of sealed the deal.” TK improves to 6-1 overall this season and 3-0 in the O-K Gold Conference with the win. The Trojans will travel to Forest Hills Eastern for another league contest Friday. Hastings is now 4-2 overall. The Saxons handled both their foes to win last week’s holiday tournament hosted by Cedar Springs High School. Hastings knocked off Newaygo 70-64 in the tournament championship Friday, getting 25 points from guard Maxwell Clark. Clark hit four consecutive threes in the fourth quarter to wipe away the four-point lead Newaygo had heading into the fourth. “(Clark) got some great screens from teammates and he had four different players find him, so it was a team effort to get him the ball when he was hot,” Schils said. “Those are the things we’re trying to build upon and make a big deal of.” The Saxons outscored Newaygo 30-20 in the fourth quarter of that contest. Newaygo had built a 30-18 half-time lead in the game. Garber chipped in 12 points for the Saxons and Buehler ten. Alex Cherry added eight and Luke Heide nine. Newaygo got 20 points from Conor Bradley, 12 from Kyle Wright and ten from Brad Wright. They and their teammates combined for ten threes in the loss. The Saxons knocked off Kent City 65-52 the opening round of the tournament Thursday. Michael Eastman led the way to that win with 16 points. Heide had 13 points and Clark 12. Hastings built a 43-36 lead through three quarters then held off Kent City by knocking down 16-of-18 free throws in the fourth quarter. The Saxons were 24-of-30 from the line Hastings’ Luke Heidi fires up a shot over Thornapple Kellogg’s Caden Francisco as time expires in the first half Tuesday night at Hastings High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) for the night. Kent City got 12 points from Justin Kruithoff and 11 from Austin Thompson. The Saxons will be back in action in the OK Gold Conference Friday night when they host South Christian. Tuesday, Hastings’ boys host Charlotte. Saxons go 5-0 at West Catholic ranked tenth in the state in Division 2 at the time. The Saxons also knocked off Newaygo 4830, Vicksburg 65-10, Kent City 52-25 and West Catholic 59-15. Aaron Williams at 103 pounds was 5-0 on the day for Hastings. Saxons winning four matches were Zach Wilcox (112 pounds), Jason Slaughter (140), Chase Huisman (145), Kenny Cross (160), Nate Pewoski (215) and Mike Pewoski (285). “Aaron Williams and Zach Wilcox have looked great in the lower weights this week,” Goggins said. “We hope to keep this up as we start the league portion of the season.” The Saxons were slated to start O-K Gold Conference duals Wednesday at Caledonia. Hastings will then host the LH Lamb Invitational Saturday and host Grand Rapids Catholic Central for a league dual Wednesday (Jan. 11). The Hastings ‘B’ team also won a dual tournament over the break, going 5-0 at the Athens Duals. The team knocked off Hartford 52-19, Menden 54-30, Athens 39-29, Marcellus 54-16 and Lawrence 48-30. Winning three or more matches for the Saxons were Jeremia Shaffer (112), Josh Ehredt (119), David Case (130), Mike Mansfield (152), Travis Hoffman (189), and Ryan Johnston (215). Pewamo rallies in third to top Vikes The Vikings showed some energy early, but then seemed drained. Lakewood’s varsity girls’ basketball team suffered a disappointing 43-31 loss at Pewamo-Westphalia Tuesday. The Vikings built a 24-18 lead in the first half. The lead could have been more if the Vikings’ had adjusted to the officials who were calling a tight ball game. The Pirates were in the double bonus in the first quarter, and hit seven of ten free throws in the first quarter. The Pirates then went on an 11-0 run in the third quarter to take control of the ball game. “We still were up at half, but came out with little energy and allowed them to beat us to every loose ball and rebound,” said Viking head coach Denny Frost. “I’m not sure if it was because of the long layoff or being on the road. We just didn’t have the energy needed to win this game. You have to give Pewamo credit for their effort.” Madison Smith and Brooke Lewis led Pewamo with nine points each. Smith also had a game-high eight rebounds. The Vikings struggled shooting the basketball, hitting on just 11 of 34 field goal attempts. “We had some opportunities, but just couldn’t make the shot to get us going,” Frost said. Emily Kutch led the Vikings with 15 points. Madi King chipped in eight points, as well as four rebounds and four steals. Lakewood is now 1-7 on the season. The Vikings are 0-2 in the Capital Area Activities Conference White Division. They’ll return to league action when they host Corunna Friday. Ybema and Dan Dykstra were all 3-1. Grand Haven had also been 3-0 in pool matches, topping the TK ‘B’ team 56-21, Whitehall 46-30 and Wyoming Park 54-15. Whitehall knocked off Eaton Rapids in the match for third place, 46-24. Fennville topped Wyoming Park 46-27 to finish fifth. TK’s ‘B’ team placed seventh thanks to a 36-21 win over Bellevue. TK was scheduled to open up the O-K Gold Conference season at Catholic Central Wednesday, and Saturday will head to a tournament at Forest Hills Central. The Trojans are home again Wednesday, Jan. 11, when they host Wayland for a league dual. The YMCA Hastings Karate Club is proud to announce its latest students to promote in rank: (from left to right-back row) Heidi Kolp (back from left), Jesse Ray, Timothy Ray, Laura MacLeod and Stevie Fuhr, (middle row) Aiden Makled and Joseph Kalmink have all been promoted to 8th kup-1st stripe. Andrew Maurer (middle row right) was double promoted to 7th kup-2 stripes. Joshua Brown (front from left), Collin Hawthorne and Eric Rosser were all promoted to 6th kup yellow belt. For more information on Karate classes through the YMCA call Nancy Hammond at (269) 948-8245. Bring your special event photos to us for quality, professional processing. J-Ad Graphics PRINTING PLUS North of Hastings on M-43 SAXON WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE Complete online schedule at: www.hassk12.org THURSDAY, JANUARY 5 Delton will honor 1987 TK has no trouble winning TK Duals football team Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity wrestling team gave up just 43 points in four duals Friday at its own TK Duals in Middleville. The Trojans took the day’s title with a perfect 4-0 record, knocking off Grand Haven 48-17 in the championship match. On the way to the final, the Trojans topped Fennville 76-0, Eaton Rapids 49-15 and Bellevue 72-9 in pool play. The Trojan team had six wrestlers who were undefeated on the day, and another five who lost only once. The 4-0 Trojans were Nick Flynn, Paul Haney, Oscar Cardosa, Cole Gahan, Austin Koehl and Adrian Foster. Ryan Flynn, Nick Iveson, Austin Sensiba, Cody YMCA Hastings Karate Club announces recent promotions This year’s inductee into the Delton Kellogg Athletic Hall of Fame is the 1987 varsity football team. The induction ceremony will take place between the varsity boys’ and girls’ basketball games against Galesburg-Augusta, at approximately 7:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 13. That Panther team finished the regular season undefeated and was the first team in school history to make the football playoffs. Head coach Rob Heethuis was named AP Coach of the Year and two players (Rich Blesch and Tim Leto) were selected FirstTeam All-State. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the team. 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:30 PM 4:30 PM 5:30 PM 5:30 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM Boys Boys Boys Girls Boys Boys Boys Girls Girls Boys 7th B 8th B Fresh. Fresh. 8th 7th A JV JV MS Varsity Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Cheer Swimming WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 11 Duncan Lake Middle Duncan Lake Middle South Christian HS South Christian HS Duncan Lake Middle Duncan Lake Middle South Christian HS South Christian Hs Wayland Jam West Catholic H A H A A H H A A A FRIDAY, JANUARY 6 6:00 PM Girls Varsity Basketball South Christian HS 7:30 PM Boys Varsity Basketball South Christian HS 7:30 PM Boys Varsity Ice Hockey Northview HS H H H SATURDAY, JANUARY 7 9:00 AM Boys Varsity Wrestling 9:00 AM Boys B Team Wrestling 10:00 AM Girls Varsity Cheer 10:00 AM Girls JV Cheer 10:00 AM Girls MS Cheer Boys Boys Boys Boys 8th A 7th A 7th B 8th B Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Boys Girls Boys Girls Girls Boys Girls Fresh. Fresh. JV JV MS Varsity Varsity Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Cheer Basketball Basketball 7th B 8th B 8th A 7th A Varsity JV JV B Team Varsity Varsity Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Cheer Cheer Wrestling Wrestling Wrestling Ice Hockey Newhall Middle Newhall Middle Newhall Middle Newhall Middle OK Gold Jam @ Cal OK Gold Jam @ Cal GR Catholic Central GR Catholic Central GR Catholic Central Lowell HS A H H A A A H H H H Ottawa Hills HS Ottawa Hills HS Ottawa Hills HS Ottawa Hills HS Wayland Union HS A H A H H THURSDAY, JANUARY 12 4:30 PM 4:30 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM Boys Girls Boys Girls Boys Fresh. Fresh. JV JV Varsity Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Swimming H A Wayland MS Wayland MS Wayland MS Wayland MS A H H A 840 Cook Rd. Hastings, MI 49058 Phone: 269-945-9520 Toll Free: 800-596-1005 Charlotte HS Charlotte HS Charlotte HS Charlotte HS Caledonia Jam Charlotte HS Charlotte HS H A H A A H A Contact us on the web @ www.hoc-mi.com Times and dates subject to change A A A Thanks to This Week’s Sponsor: Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, P.C. “Quality Care with Compassion” TUESDAY, JANUARY 10 4:00 PM 4:00 PM 5:30 PM 5:30 PM 6:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM Boys Boys Boys Boys Girls Girls Boys Boys Boys Boys L.H. Lamb Invitational Climax-Scotts Panther Individual Invitational Byron Center HS Byron Center HS Byron Center HS MONDAY, JANUARY 9 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 5:30 PM 5:30 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 5:30 PM 5:30 PM 5:30 PM 5:30 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:30 PM 7:45 PM HASTINGS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS Contact Nancy 945-2742 or hastingsathleticboosters@gmail.com to sponsor the schedule 77564956 Hastings tacked five more victories onto its record this holiday season. The Saxon varsity wrestling team improved to 11-1 in duals this season with a 5-0 record at Wednesday’s West Catholic Duals. “This is the first time in a long time we have wrestled over the Christmas break,” said Hastings coach Mike Goggins. “We are pleased with the boys’ efforts. Sometimes its hard to stay focused with all the distractions of the holidays, but we continue to be impressed with the wrestlers’ work ethic and dedication.” The big win for the Saxons was a 44-19 victory over a Northview team which was �Page 14 — Thursday, January 5, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Thornapple Kellogg girls top Hastings for first win Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity girls’ basketball team scored the win in a battle of two previously winless teams in Middleville Tuesday night. The Trojans knocked off visiting Hastings 46-36. The Trojans built a 10-point lead in the first half, leading 20-10 at the break. The Saxons, led by Taylor Carter, rallied in the third quarter. Carter scored all of her team-high 12 points in the period as her team pulled within 28-26 heading into the fourth quarter. Thornapple Kellogg responded to the Saxon run early in the fourth, scoring the first few baskets of the period. TK then knocked down 4-of-5 free throws in the fourth to hold on for the victory. Shelby Tedrow led Thornapple Kellogg with 19 points. “Middleville was more physical than us underneath,” said Saxon head coach Steve Laubaugh. “We aren’t very big, and their size on the bottom of their zone defense bothered us.” Grace Meade and Dani Meredith chipped in eight points each for the Saxons. At right: Hastings’ Grace Meade fires a short shot up over Thornapple Kellogg’s Shelby Tedrow Tuesday night. (Photo by Perry Hardin) The Saxons’ Nichole Redman drives around Thornapple Kellogg’s Holley Tripp during Tuesday night’s contest in Middleville. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Hastings’ Rachel Quillen (left) reaches in to try and get the ball away from Thornapple Kellogg’s Erin Ellinger during Tuesday night’s O-K Gold Conference contest in Middleville. (Photo by Perry Hardin) “Overall, we didn’t make very good offensive decisions,” said Laubaugh. “It was an ugly game - as is usually the case when we play each other. We created a ton of turnovers from them, but we didn’t make good stuff happen with very many of them.” The Saxons are now 0-7 on the season, while the Trojans improve to 1-6. Hastings fell in both its contests a the Parma Western Holiday Tournament last week. In the consolation game Wednesday, host Parma Western topped the Saxons 52-40. Parma Western went on a 23-6 run in the third quarter to erase the Saxons’ 17-12 halftime lead. Parma Western hit five threes in that run, and limited the Saxon offense with a trapping 1-3-1 zone defense. The Saxons made a bit of a comeback in the fourth quarter, as Parma Western went 0-7 at the free throw line. Hastings didn’t help itself much at the foul line though, hitting on 14-of-28 attempts. Rachel Quillen led Hastings with 12 points, while Carter had nine and Meredith seven. Concord topped the Saxons 44-22 in the tournament opener Dec. 27. Once again, a 1-3-1 zone stymied the Saxons in the second half. Concord led by just four at the half, but held the Saxons to just five points in the entire second half. Carter finished with nine points for Hastings and Laken Meade with six. The Saxons return to action at home Friday against South Christian, then Tuesday will travel to Charlotte for a non-conference contest. Maple Valley wrestlers third at Jesse Snow tournament Maple Valley’s varsity wrestling team finished third at its annual Jesse Snow Memorial Tournament Thursday. The Lion varsity team was 3-2, scoring wins over Concord, Hopkins and Team Ex which was made up of extra wrestlers from the four schools at the tournament. The Lions knocked off Concord 60-18, beat Hopkins 42-36 and beat Team EX 40-33. Maple Valley’s two losses were to Battle Creek Lakeview ‘B’ 48-36 and to Lakewood 57-16. Lakewood took the day’s championship with a 5-0 record. Lakeview was second at 41. Team EX was fourth, knocking off a Concord team with eight voids in its line-up. Maple Valley had three wrestlers who finished the day with perfect 5-0 records, Austin Davis at 112 pounds, Jake Milbauer at 130 pounds, and Andrew Zank at 135. Kodee Crouch at 103 pounds, Cash Flower at 152 and Travis Franks at 189 pounds were each 4-1. The Lions got three wins from Sam Bonney at 119 pounds. The Lions are off now until a trip to a tournament at Edwardsburg Jan. 7. BOWLING SCORES 77564935 Monday Mixerettes NBT 42.5-25.5; Dean’s Dolls 40.5-27.5; Kent Oil 36-32; Dewey’s Auto Body 33-35; Nashville Chiropractic 30-38; James Process Service 22-46. Good Games and Series - E. Ulrich 172504; L. Elliston 218-515; V. Carr 185-494; S. Dunham 166; N. Potter 155; N. Goggins 172465; T. Redman 143-405; D. James 194; C. Hurless 152; D. Snyder 202-571. Senior Citizens Butterfingers 45-23; Just Having Fun 40.527.5; Kuempel 40-28; Usedtobe #1 39-29; M&M’s 34-34; Early Risers 32-36; Three Gals & a Guy 32-36; King Pins 32-36; Sun Risers 28.5-39.5; Ward’s Friends 17-51. Women’s Good Games and Series - A. Tasker 141; M. Wieland 180-509; Y. Markley 184-449; R. Murphy 164-455; R. Maker 173; S. Patch 188-535; R. Pitts 156-390. Men’s Good Games and Series - P. Gasper 260-713; H. Gibson 179-456; B. Akers 214; K. Schantz 168; L. Brandt 199; R. McDonald 225; G. Forbey 161. Wednesday PM Mills Landing 48-20; Eye & ENT 41-27; The River 38-30; Hair Care 37.5-26.5*; Four Pals 30.5-37.5. Good Games and Series - S. Beebe 169476; A. Tasker 141; P. Shellington 152; Y. Cheeseman 186-501; J. Shurlow 162-435; R. Pitts 151-398 *Games to be made up. Tuesday Trios Rollarama 52-20; CB’s 51-21; Look Insurance 42-30; Shirlee’s Team 41-31; Lu’s Team 39-33; Twisted Sisters 38-34; Blair Landscaping 36-36; Coleman Agency 33-39; Team Turkey 27-45; Trouble 25-47; Classic 3 24-48; Ghost Team 17-55. High Game and Series - B. Stacy 149; B. Innes 167; L. Wiltshire 154; T. Daniels 227585; M. Heath; C. Allwardt 175; L. Scurlock 164; D. McKee 160; S. Vandenbuerg 179; S. McKee 195-550; K. Carpenter 178; L. Potter 174; J. Greenfield 175; M. Sears 173. Tuesday Night Mixed Boyce Milk Haulers 44-28; Hometown Lumber 43.5-28.5; Hurless Machine Shop 42.5-29.5; Barry County Red Cross 40-32; JBar Antique Tractors 32-40; Dirt Broke 14-58. Men’s Good Games and Series - D. Benner 193; G. Hause 183; S. Hause 181-508; D. Blakely 179; K. Beebe 176; A. Mirr 173; A. Dundas 153-393. Women’s Good Games and Series - B. Wilkins 207; S. Beebe 200; D. Ware 184; M. Majava 158-381; B. Smith 145; D. Service 135; A. Nicholson 135. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-01-12.pdf 6b83e6d54a0c2a44a991b16be9e3be07 PDF Text Text Weekend in jail may force drivers to rethink Grow jobs by preparing students Toss hurts Saxons in conference dual See Story on Page 3 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 11 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 2 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, January 12, 2012 NEWS County Tea Party hosts Durant and Glenn BRIEFS Rotary pancake supper is Tuesday The Hastings Rotary Club annual pancake supper will be held Tuesday, Jan. 17, from 4:30 to 7 p.m. at the Hastings High School cafeteria. Down the hall in the gymnasium, that Hastings boys basketball teams will take on Lakewood. Fans from both schools are invited to the pancake supper. The cost is $4 per person, and proceeds go to youth projects in Barry County. Monday is a day of service; collection underway For the first time, the Barry County United Way and Volunteer Center will be completing a Martin Luther King Day of Service to benefit local residents in need. “As a community, let’s join together to show the rest of Michigan that Barry County sees MLK Day as a day on, not a day off,” said Barry County United Way Volunteer Center coordinator Morgan Johnson. United Way is will be completing a MLK Day of Service in Barry County for the first time this year. The project has two parts. The first is a personal care products drive. A community-wide drive is taking place now through Monday, Jan. 16. Bins are available for drop-off at Buckland Insurance locations in Hastings and Delton, Barry Community Foundation, and Barry County United Way. Products sought include travel-size and full-size shampoo, conditioner, lotion, bars of soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes and similar items. The second part is the MLK Day of Service. From 10 a.m. to noon, Barry County United Way will host volunteers at the Barry Community Enrichment Center, 231 S. Broadway, Hastings. Volunteers will be completing a variety of projects, including makting fleece scarves, putting personal care items into clear plastic bags and decorating the plastic bags to look like snowmen. Johnson said the United Way are looking for 30 to 35 volunteers to help with this project. Volunteers of all ages are invited to participate — families, co-workers, youth groups, friends and more. The goal is to complete 100 care packs to be distributed to Barry County organizations. Individuals who are interested in volunteering may call the Barry County United Way office, 269-945-4010 to get more information on volunteering, local events in need of volunteers, or to get connected through its website, bcunitedway.org. Local businesses focus of historical society meeting Hastings businessman Richard Groos will be the featured speaker during the Feb. 7 monthly meeting of the Barry County Historical Society. Groos will share his personal knowledge about the history of a number of the major industrial businesses that were founded in Hastings and were major employers and economic forces in the growth in Barry County, including the Tyden Lock and Seal Company, Viking Corporation, Hastings Manufacturing and E.W. Bliss Company. The meeting will begin at 7 p.m. in the community room of the Barry County Courts and Law Building at 206 W. Court St. in Hastings. by Fran Faverman Staff Writer An enthusiastic audience of some 50 supporters greeted Republican U.S. Senate candidates Gary Glenn and Clark Durant during a meeting hosted by the Barry County Tea party on Tuesday at the Middle Villa Inn in Middleville. Durant and Glenn, among a field of four candidates vying to challenge Sen. Debbie Stabenow in the Nov. 12 general election, spent 90 minutes expressing similar and disparate views supporting their individual cases for being the choice of Republicans when the party votes in the Republican primary Aug. 7. Glenn spoke first, stressing his commitment to family values with a recitation of his accomplishments as president for 12 years of the American Family Association, his success in getting right-to-work legislation passed in Idaho, his leadership role in remodeling health care benefits for county employees in Midland, his role in drafting and his leadership in the fight for the 2004 protection of marriage amendment to the Michigan Constitution, which defines marriage as between one man and one woman and which was overwhelmingly passed in the 2004 presidential election. Glenn also sharply criticized the current state of affairs in Washington, concentrating his criticism primarily on Peter Hoekstra, the leading candidate for the Republican nomination. Glenn views a Superintendent at TK to step down in June Gary Rider by Casey Cheney Staff Writer Thornapple Kellogg Board of Education members opened envelopes Superintendent Gary Rider handed them at their meeting Monday evening, already knowing the contents – a letter announcing that he would retire in June. “It’s with huge amounts of mixed emotions that I tell you this,” said Rider, superintendent of five years in the district. “I am going to work very hard in the next six months in helping the administration with this transition in leadership.” He added his confidence in the ability of the board to find a suitable candidate to take the job when he leaves. “The board of education, the staff and community all have made learning a priority, and that will not change with new leadership,” he wrote in the letter. “I am very encouraged when I consider what lies ahead for the district. Through the hard work of many, the direction and vision for where TK is headed has been set. There is a road map in place and a process for monitoring progress for years to come.” The board will meet Saturday to discuss the search and selection processes, as well as the characteristics they will be looking for. See RETIREMENT, pg. 3 Republican U.S. Senate candidate Clark Durant Republican U.S. Senate candidate Gary Glenn vote for Hoekstra as being essentially the same as a vote for incumbent Democrat Debbie Stabenow. He used the example of five votes to draw the difference between himself and Hoekstra: Glenn would have voted yes on the national right to work law and No on forcing local governments to unionize employees, the Wall Street bailout, raising the debt ceiling, the Bridge to Nowhere, and the Brady gun control bill. His race “is against the Republican establishment,” Glenn said, comparing it to the Biblical story of David-and Goliath. Glenn stated that he is running because “the lord put a love of liberty in my heart.” He also referred to his father who was a Marine stationed in Honolulu in 1941 and is a Pearl Harbor survivor. In one of his few references to Stabenow, Glenn said her reelection would mean the establishment of the United Socialist States of America. On a national right to work law, Glenn said that the right to a job without being required to join a union is as much a civil right as the right not to be discriminated against because of color, race, or religion. According to Glenn, states that have right to work laws have seen much greater job growth compared to states that have not passed such laws. “When was a new auto plant built in Michigan?” Glenn asked. Glenn also staked positions on the recent federal health care law (he’d repeal), on taxes (he’d eliminate the current system and replace it with a sales tax and flat tax), on energy reserves (he favors fracking and the abolishment of the Environmental Protection Agency), on social issues (protection of the marriage amendment), and on greater state and local control —in addition to the IRS and EPA, Glenn would also eliminate the Federal Reserve Bank, the National Labor Relations Board, the Department of Energy, and the Department of Education. Glenn concluded his remarks by saying that Hoekstra cannot beat Stabenow without the active support of Tea Party activists. The current election offers “one last shot at returning to the principles of the Constitution.” Clark Durant stressed his experience in business and education. He is a cofounder of Cornerstone Schools in Detroit, a system that operates both schools and charter academies. His business experience is See SENATE CANDIDATES, pg. 8 Hastings City Council nixes raise for frugal city clerk/treasurer Newly and re-elected Hastings City officials take their oaths of office at the beginning of the regular meeting of the Hastings City Council Monday evening. Pictured are (standing, from left) re-elected Mayor Bob May, and newly council members Waylon Black and Bill Redman, (seated) city attorney Stephanie Fekkes, council members Brenda McNabb-Stange and Don Bowers. by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer His efforts may have saved the City of Hastings more money than those of other city employees, but the Hastings City Council still rejected a 1 percent raise for Hastings City Clerk and Treasurer Tom Emery by a 6-3 vote Monday, with Mayor Bob May, newly appointed Mayor Pro-Tem Brenda McNabbStange and newly seated council member Waylon Black voting in favor of the motion. The raise was proposed by Hastings City Manager Jeff Mansfield as a token of appreciation for Emery’s efforts to save the municipality money. Mansfield said Emery had been instrumental in preparing the budget, negotiating union contracts, applying for grants and more. “In the past ... one of the members of the city council indicated that they would like to see us recognize employees who are particularly instrumental in achieving savings in the city or performing additional tasks ... Mr. Emery certainly did that this last year,” Mansfield told the council. “I feel bad that we can’t grant everyone a raise based on just the cost of living, if nothing else ... we don’t have a lot of resource ... but, Mr. Emery was instrumental in saving the city a lot of money this past year ... implementing health care and insurance programs that have made a big dif- ference.” Council member Barry Wood said that while he agreed with Mansfield regarding Emery’s work, he was not in favor of granting the raise. “I would like to give everybody a pay raise, also, but I am not in favor of doing this for one person,” Wood said. “I’m not saying anything against Tom. I just don’t want to recognize one person above and beyond ... the rest of the staff is doing an outstanding job too.” Council member Dave Tossava agreed with Wood. “If we’ve asked everybody to tighten their belts — the union people, the nonunion people, all the way down to the retirees, I don’t think this is a good time to do this,” he said. “I think we need to at least make an effort to recognize people who go above and beyond,’ said McNabb-Stange. “That is not to say that no one else did an outstanding job ... but, considering Tom’s work on saving us money and earning us money ... I think this is merely a token...” Newly sworn-in council member Bill Redman said he agreed with Wood and Tossava., “I don’t think that right now is a time to add to the budget,” he said. “Tom has done a fantastic job; I don’t disagree with that at all ... But, I’m not going to take my first night on the council and vote a raise for anybody.” In other business, the council approved the following: • The salary schedule for city officials as recommended by the May, who noted that there were no increases: Mayor, $7,800 per year; mayor pro-tem, $2,500 per year; council members, $2,300 per year, and board of review $115 per meeting. • The following annual reappointments: Hastings City Manager Jeff Mansfield; city attorney, Stephanie Fekkes; deputy city manager, police chief, emergency management coordinator, Jerry Sarver; fire chief, fire marshal, Americans with Disabilities Act coordinator, Roger Caris; director of public services, Tim Girrbach; city assessor, Jackie Timmerman; city clerk/treasurer, finance director, Freedom of Information Act coordinator, Tom Emery; community development director, John Hart; and zoning administrator, Jeff Mansfield. • A motion that regular meetings of the Hastings City Council begin at 7 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, except Tuesday, May 29, in place of Memorial Day, Monday, May 28; Tuesday, Nov. 13, in place of Veterans Day, Monday, Nov. 12 (observed); and Wednesday, Dec. 26, in place of Christmas Eve, Monday, Dec. 24, and Christmas Day, Tuesday, Dec. 25. �Page 2 — Thursday, January 12, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Barry County Commissioners fight routine in 2012 rollout by Doug VanderLaan Editor Working through typical business to begin a new calendar year, the Barry County Board of Commissioners provided approvals and oversight confirmations at its first official meeting of the new year Tuesday, but mildly pushed against the procedural nature of items on its first official 2012 meeting agenda. “I don’t understand why we’re being asked to approve these appointments,” pointed out Commissioner Joe Lyons of approval being requested of four appointments made by other entities of individuals to committees and advisory boards. “If we didn’t make the appointments, why are we being asked to approve?” The appointments in question — which the board eventually approved by unanimous consent — were as follows: • Frank Fiala to the Solid Waste Oversight Committee, an appointment made by the Barry County Road Commission. • Marcie Tepper to the Animal Control/Shelter Advisory Board, an appointment made by the Barry County Sheriff. • Kay Doyle to the Animal Control/Sheriff Committee, an appointment made by the Barry County Humane Society. • David Jasperse as the City of Hastings’ representative to the Barry County Tax Allocation Board, an appointment made by Chief Judge William M. Doherty. County Administrator Michael Brown explained that the four designations presented were appointments allowed by the entities that made them. The Board of Commissioners also makes appointments to the committees and advisory boards mentioned. The presentation of the four appointments in question on Tuesday’s agenda was for informational purposes and the requested approval of the appointments by the county board would be a courtesy acknowledgment. “I don’t understand why we’re being asked to approve these appointments. If we didn’t make the appointments, why are we being asked to approve?” Commissioner Joe Lyons The board provided that acknowledgment and also gave final approval to the following recommendations made at the Jan. 3 meeting of its committee of the whole: • An amendment to the 2012 prosecuting attorney’s budget allowing a transfer of $5,880 from its extradition allocation to its operating budget. • The adoption of the 2012 Barry County Emergency Action Guidelines to be used to respond to and mitigate large-scale disasters. • The appointment of Commissioner Lyons as the board’s representative to the County Tax Allocation Board. • Authorization of the 2010 Homeland Security Grant Program’s Intergovernmental Funding Agreement appointing Van Buren County as the fiduciary representative as source of grant money for the Emergency Management District to which Barry County is assigned. Two additional items placed before the board Tuesday concerned county recycling efforts and a request for follow-up on an address change concern. Hastings Charter Township Supervisor Jim Brown used the public-comment portion of the meeting to inform commissioners of efforts to gauge support for a countywide recycling program. Questionnaires have been sent to residents of three townships, and Brown reported on preliminary data being received. Commissioner Dan Parker inquired about how the board or its administration has responded to a letter sent to all commissioners by Orangeville Township Trustee Linda Ribble on behalf of a resident whose request for resolution of an address change and zoning issue was delayed. Commission Chair Craig Stolsonburg responded that administration and board leadership will be meeting with the relevant departments next week. The board will hold two meetings next week, its committee of the whole meeting Tuesday, Jan. 17, at 9 a.m. and a special strategic planning session on Jan. 19 at 10 a.m. Community foundation meets national standards for quality, accountability Barry Community Foundation recently received notification that it has met the nation’s highest philanthropic standards for operational quality, integrity and accountability. The notice comes from the Council on Foundations, a national professional association based in Washington, D.C. “This is similar to the Good Housekeeping Seal for community foundations,” said Steve Gunderson, Council on Foundations president and chief executive officer. “It says that Barry Community Foundation has demonstrated a commitment to operational quality, integrity and accountability.” The National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations Program requires community foundations to document their policies for donor services, investments, grantmaking and administration. With more than 200 community foundations already confirmed in compliance nationwide, the program is designed to provide quality assurance to donors, as well as to their legal and financial advisors. “This is critically important to our donors,” said Bonnie Hildreth, Barry Community Foundation president. “When people make a charitable bequest, establish a fund or set up an annuity, they are putting their trust in us. They are counting on us to manage the investment wisely, honor their charitable wishes and, in some cases, provide lifetime income to a loved one. The National Standards confirmation says our house is in order.” National Standards guide the policies and practices that help community foundations achieve results and impact. The 41 National Standards address six key areas of community foundation operations: • Mission, structure and governance. • Resource development. • Stewardship and accountability. • Grantmaking and community leadership. • Donor relations. • Communications. “Under each of the 41 standards that address the six key areas of operation, our foundation submitted documentation to prove that we in fact do adhere to and comply with the standards set by the National Standards board,” Hildreth said. The National Standards board oversight is provided by the Council of Foundations and is a peer review of community foundations executives that have been trained to voluntary review new and recompliance applications, she added. Barry Community Foundation offers a range of charitable funds, allowing donors to advance a cause such as education or the environment, support an individual organization, provide flexible support for community needs or recommend individual grants. In addition to affirming the organization’s philanthropic services, the confirmation validates Barry Community Foundation’s grantmaking practices for the nonprofit community. “Some say it’s easier to create wealth than to give money away wisely,” said James Toburen, Barry Community Foundation board chair. “There’s some truth in that. Grantmaking is a lot like investing … we need to assess risks, weigh potential gains, diversify assets, monitor performance and operate fairly. When you see the National Standards Seal, you can be assured that we’re committed to meeting the highest standards for grantmaking as well.” The National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations program is the first of its kind for charitable foundations in the United States. To learn more about National Standards for community foundations, call the Barry Community Foundation office at 269-9450526, email info@barrycf.org or through the website at www.barrycf.org. Through philanthropic services, strategic investments and community leadership, Barry Community Foundation helps people support the causes they care about, now and for generations to come. The Council on Foundations is a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit membership association of more than 2,000 grantmaking foundations and corporations, with assets totaling more than $280 billion. The Council provides the opportunity, leadership and tools needed by philanthropic organizations to expand, enhance and sustain their ability to advance the common good. For more information on the Council, visit its website at www.cof.org. 211 service arrives in Barry County The Barry County Resource Network and Barry County United Way recently announced that after working for 12 years to make it a reality, 211 is now available to all Barry County residents. This new service provides residents with the ability to make one call 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to receive information on services they are in need of such as utility, housing or food assistance, volunteer opportunities, senior services, youth programming and more. Local, state and national programs are all a part of the resources that can be accessed. 211 — so named because users need only dial 2-1-1 for information — is also available on the Internet through the Barry County United Way website at www.bcunitedway.org. Many local governmental entities are also placing links on their websites; the City of Hastings and the Village of Freeport are the first to do so. HandsOn Battle Creek is the regional answering point serving Barry, Branch, Calhoun, Ionia, Montcalm and St. Joseph counties. They were the first call center to receive the 211 designation in the state of Michigan in March of 2001. It was launched in August of 2002 by the Volunteer Center of Battle Creek, in partnership with LifeCare ambulance and United Way of Greater Battle Creek and start up funds from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation and the Battle Creek Foundation. The service expanded into St. Joseph County in 2008 and Branch County in 2009 with Barry, Ionia and Montcalm counties at the very end of last year. Jamie Rugg is the 211 coordinator at HandsOn Battle Creek. “Jamie has been instrumental in getting Barry County 211 up in running in a short amount of time,” said Barry County United Way Executive Director Lani Forbes. The program was made possible through a Consumers Energy Foundation grant, first offered in May of 2009, which was part of a $300,000 grant toward expanding 211 services to all of the state of Michigan. Baffled bloomer Humans aren’t the only living things addled by the current above-normal temperatures and lack of snow. For the season, West Michigan has a snowfall deficit of more than two feet, according to Fox 17 News. This dandelion was found blooming in a Hastings garden Sunday, Jan. 8, without a flake in sight. Local broadband group researching access options The Barry County broadband committee met Jan. 11 with existing service providers in the county as part of the committee’s research on expanding broadband services. Valerie Byrnes, president of the Barry County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Alliance, said highspeed Internet is crucial for economic development. “The Alliance is eager to continue our work with local stakeholders to evaluate our needs and look to expand our broadband infrastructure countywide,” she said. In September 2010, Irving Township, under the direction of Treasurer Lynette Wingeier, reached out to other townships with a survey on needs to expand service. More than 1,175 surveys were returned from residents in Irving, Carlton, Maple Grove, Thornapple, Yankee Springs, Woodland, Hastings Charter townships and patrons of Putnam District Library. The Barry County Economic Development Alliance is leading the process to develop a multi-faceted approach to address the Internet needs within Barry County. There is now a partnership between ConnectMI and Barry County. Dan Manning of ConnectMI attended the Jan. 11 meeting to update how that group is working with the Michigan Public Service Commission to ensure that rural and urban communities have access to the unlimited benefits of broadband. All Internet service providers having a stake in Barry County were invited to participate in the Jan. 11 meeting. At the meeting, the representatives from those organizations were asked what information they need in order to possibly expand services within Barry County. Several committees of the Barry County Broadband Expansion Team are beginning to assess local needs and service gaps, in order to work more closely with service providers to enhance broadband access and implementation. The Broadband Expansion Team will be meeting Feb. 15 at 9 a.m. at the Barry County Enrichment Center on Center Street in Hastings. Anyone with questions about expansion of broadband services in Barry County may call Byrnes, 269-945-2454, or email valerie@mibarry.com. Participating 211 agencies The Barry County Resource Center and the Barry County United Way have announced 211 service is now available to all residents of Barry County. Participating agencies specific to Barry County include: • Child Abuse Prevention Council of Barry County. • YMCA of Barry County. • Pennock Healthcare System. • Barry Community Hospice. • Barry Intermediate School District. • Barry County Trial Court Family Division. • Barry County Community Mental Health Authority. • Delton Kellogg Schools. • Love Inc. of Barry County. • Freeport District Library. • Hastings Public Library. • Putnam District Library. • George W. Spindler Memorial Library. • Thornapple Kellogg School and Community Library. • Barry County Substance Abuse Services. • Soldiers and Sailors Relief Commission Barry County. • Barry Community Foundation. • Habitat for Humanity - Barry County. • CASA for Kids Barry and Eaton County. • Barry County Commission on Aging. • Hastings Area School System. • Thornapple Kellogg Schools. • Michigan Works — at Barry Intermediate School District. • Barry County Transit. • Barry Conservation District. • Delton District Library. • Dowling Public Library. • MSU Extension Barry County. • Lighthouse on the Lake Center Inc. • Barry County Wraparound. • Circle Pines Center. • Zion Lutheran Church. • Manna’s Market. • Kellogg Biological Station. • Barry County United Way and Volunteer Center. • Country Chapel United Methodist Church. • Spiritual Care Consultants of West Michigan. • Green Gables. • 5th Judicial Circuit Court. • 56th District Court. • City of Hastings. • Hastings First United Methodist Church. Representatives from organizations that would like to be listed within the 211 system, should call Lani Forbes, 269-945-4010, for further information. Quilt raffle part of Green Gables Haven charity auction Green Gables Haven Executive Director Janie Bergeron (left) and quilt maker Cheryl Guernsey display Guernsey’s hand-stitched step quilt. The quilt, which took more than six months to make, will be raffled off to benefit the shelter. Green Gables’ 10th annual charity auction will be Saturday, Feb. 11, at EverAfter Banquet Hall in Hastings. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 12, 2012 — Page 3 Hastings BPA students win 30 awards at regional conference Taking part in the regional BPA competition are Hastings High School students (front row, from left) Victoria Fueri, Cindy Tebo, Katie Endsley, Megan Miller, Lindy Kloosterman, (second row) Ethan Haywood, Brandon Secord, Haley Perkins-Craven, Shelby Price, Kim Smith, Cherie Kosbar, Lucas Johnson, Katelynn Horvat, (third row) Shelby Kubek, Cassidee Martin, Christian Dawson, Allysa Larson, Hannah Alspaugh, Hannah Smith, Amber Pickard, Tanner Roderick, (back) Stefan Horvat, Sarah Alspaugh, Joe Smith, Christine Maurer, Damon Cove, Taylor Horton Twenty-seven members of the Hastings High School Business Professionals of America chapter put their business skills to the test at the Region 1 leadership conference at Davenport University in Caledonia Friday, Jan. 6. Hastings students walked away with 30 awards, and 17 students qualified to compete at the state level. More than 400 students competed in individual and team events, ranging from accounting to graphic design to public speaking. The Workplace Skills Assessment Program is designed to prepare students to succeed and assesses real-world business skills and problem-solving abilities in finance, management, information technology and computer applications at the regional, state, and national levels. The 17 students who qualified to attend the state conference by placing in the top five in an individual event, the top two in a team event, or earning a Torch Award included: Hannah Alspaugh (second in graphic design promotion and Diplomat Torch Award), Sarah Alspaugh (third in fundamental accounting and Diplomat Torch Award), Damon Cove (first in parliamentary procedure team and third in parliamentary procedure concepts), Victoria Fueri (first in parliamentary procedure team), Ethan Haywood (first in prepared speech), Taylor Horton (third in keyboarding production), Lindy Kloosterman (first in parliamentary procedure team and Diplomat Torch Award), Shelby Kubek (second in fundamental accounting), Alyssa Larson (first in parliamentary procedure team, fourth in parliamentary procedure concepts, and fourth in management, marketing and HR concepts), Christine Maurer (first in banking and finance, third in payroll accounting, and Diplomat Torch Award), Megan Miller (first in parliamentary procedure team), Amber Pickard (third in administrative support research project, fourth in insurance concepts, and Diplomat Torch Award), Shelby Price (first in parliamentary procedure team), Tanner Roderick (Diplomat Torch Award), Hannah Smith (first in advanced accounting and second in payroll accounting), Kimberly Smith (fourth in banking and finance and Diplomat Torch Award) and Cindy Tebo (first in parliamentary procedure team and fifth in parliamentary procedure concepts). The Torch Awards frame and guide BPA members’ leadership and service to their chapters and communities. Students complete activities in seven categories — leadership; service; cooperation; knowledge; friendship; love, hope, faith; and patriotism — then log their activities in an online Torch Resume. Each activity is worth five, 10, 15 or 20 points. When student achieve a certain number of points for each category, their advisors submit the resume online to be reviewed for recognition. The BPA State Leadership Conference will be March 22 to 25 at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel in Grand Rapids. Hastings High School BPA Advisors are Andrew Mains and Tracy George, assisted by business paraprofessional Kourtney Meredith. BPA is a leading career technical student organization for students pursuing careers in accounting, business management, information technology and other related career fields. BPA has more than 43,000 members in over 2,300 chapters in 23 states. RETIREMENT, continued from page 1 Board President Dave Smith said this process, as it has in the past, will include input from parents, community and staff. “With that input, we’re confident we can define the right characteristics for our new leader to enable us to continue the great direction of our district, and to continue to provide the best education possible for the students of Thornapple Kellogg Schools.” Smith added that there would be no decisions made at Saturday’s meeting, only discussion. Rider didn’t elaborate at the meeting on his reasons for leaving. In a later interview, he said, “There’s no voodoo or genie-in-the-bottle thing on this. It’s time.” At 58, he was eligible for retirement three years ago, and retirement is something Rider said he’s mulled over the last couple years. “[Also,] it’s not really a calm time in education, but we’re at a somewhat stable time now with our district,” he said, adding with a laugh, “My daughter told me I’m officially old.” “We’ve got the vision and direction for the district in place. That’s not going to change with new leadership.” – TK Superintendent Gary Rider As for what challenges will face the next superintendent, Rider said, “It’s trying to do more with less. It’s a difficult thing right now. I’m just very pleased our district is as stable financially [as it is]. We’re in a very good position with our staff and our direction. Every superintendent is going to have challenges. But, whoever does become the [Thornapple Kellogg] superintendent is going to be going into a very good situation.” This brought up another reason for the timing of his retirement. The district has a shared vision that has been mapped out with the strategic planning process. “We’ve got that in place now,” he said. “We’ve got the vision and direction for the district in place. That’s not going to change with new leadership. And we have a method for keeping track of [the process and vision].” Rider revealed what his plans would be after he retires: family time and consulting. In his letter, he said, “As for my retirement, I hope it will allow me to have more time with Sandy, our children and grandchildren, and possibly an occasional round of golf. I also look forward to continuing to stay active and engaged in the field of education, working with school districts as a consultant.” Rider has served in public education for 36 years, He left his readers with these remarks: “I have absolute faith in you, the TK Board; as well as the staff and community to continue to move forward, building on the quality work you’ve done over the past several years. You have all been a vital part of establishing TK’s outstanding reputation, and I am confident that will continue to be the case for many, many years to come. I am a better professional and person because of our time together and what I have learned from you over the past five years.” Keith Ferris appointed to state trucking post Keith Ferris, former township and county official and director of Historic Charlton Park, has been appointed to the Michigan Trust Safety Commission by Gov. Rick Snyder for a term expiring Aug. 4, 2013. The MTSC is the only organization in the nation dedicated to commercial truck driver education and training supported by the industry and not by tax dollars. It has grown to become a renowned safety advocate for the state’s trucking industry and is committed to enhancing truck and truck driver safety by providing driver education and training, heightening all drivers’ awareness of the characteristics and limitations of trucks, initiating data collections and research, and supporting enforcement of motor carrier safety laws. “This was something I was asked to get involved in and I come from a background that will be helpful,” says Ferris. “The challenge today is to educate the public — both truck drivers and automobile drivers — on the importance of truck safety.” Ferris is a Rutland Township resident and served as a commissioner on that township’s planning and zoning board. He was a member of the Barry County Board of Commissioners and served as the director of Historical Charlton Park. He currently is a member of the BIRCH Fire Association Board. Ferris worked for Ryder Transportation Services for 28 years and is currently corporate asset manager and operations team leader for Apache Logistics of Holland. “I look at things in a practical sense,” says Barry County District Court Judge Michael Schipper speaks to Hastings Kiwanis Club members about substance abuse trends. A weekend in jail may force drivers to rethink by David DeDecker Staff Writer Being forced to take a ‘time out’ in jail is one way of dealing with people who drive drunk, and education is key to preventing it. That was one of the messages from Barry County District Court Judge Michael Schipper, guest speaker, during the Jan. 4 Hastings Kiwanis Club luncheon. “The number has been consistent over the last couple of years, and it’s fairly significant,” said Schipper. “We end up with almost one drunk driving case a day — 250 a year. That’s too much. It is estimated that every time someone is stopped for drunk driving, there are probably 10 to 15 times they were drunk driving and didn’t get stopped. So, with a multiplier of 10, we have 2,500 times a year there is [someone] drunk driving in Barry County. That’s dangerous, and it’s not acceptable. We have to try and find ways to educate people and stop them from drinking and driving.” He said one of the most memorable and effective sentences for first-time drunk drivers is a weekend in jail. The jail, he said, is now a busier place on the weekends. “I started a couple months ago sending them to jail,” Schipper said of some of the people who’ve come before him, accused of operating under the influence. “I’ve gotten some push back, but I have to do what I think is right. If you’re a young person at a bonfire party and you’re drinking, you’re going to think twice or call somebody before driving. The last thing a person wants to do is spend Friday through Sunday in jail, when they could be with friends at a basketball game or something.” Schipper also talked about cases concerning medical marijuana. He said a large number of people in Barry County have medical marijuana cards because the cards are so easy to obtain. “The problem is unethical doctors. First of all, I am not a fan of the law. I’m not against medical marijuana if there is a legitimate medical use. But, why should marijuana be treated any different than a prescription medication? We don’t let you create morphine in your home and dispense it, or Motrin. They are all regulated, and why should marijuana be any different? “I think we trusted doctors would honestly evaluate before signing off on a marijuana card application. I ask [people the reason] all the time when people come into court, because I am interested why they have a marijuana card. Over 90 percent of the time, the reason is bogus. There are key words people can use, like ‘chronic pain,’ and unethical doctors can sign off on a card. For $150 to $200, mention the magic words, you get a medical marijuana card.” He mentioned a case he bound over to Judge Amy McDowell in circuit court last week, involving what he called first impression. If a law enforcement officer sees a driver with a long-neck brown bottle in his or her hand, is that enough to stop the driver? “We are also seeing more prescription drug abuse in schools, such as Adderall. Kids take it because they think it helps them focus for tests, or do better in sports. “We are also seeing things like ‘spice’ and ‘bath salts,’ and they are so dangerous,” he said. “The chemicals they are made from cause brain damage and addiction so quickly. It’s scary because it is fairly inexpensive and kills your brain.” Schipper compared some of the drug- and alcohol-related laws to other laws on the books. He mentioned a wildlife case in which a person was charged with shooting a duck several minutes after shooting hours closed. That law calls for a mandatory minimum sentence of five days in jail. “There is no minimum sentence for drunk driving,” said Schipper. “It just doesn’t make sense. I’m not for poaching, but shooting a duck after dark doesn’t seem as bad as driving with a [blood alcohol] of .30 percent.” Schipper concluded his talk by telling Kiwanis members the best way to curb the use of alcohol and drugs is through education. The education needs to start young, in middle school or earlier, he said, to let young people know how drugs and alcohol can hinder their dreams and harm their lives. Reporting History for the Future in 6 Barry County Area Newspapers • Lakewood News • Maple Valley News • Middleville-Caledonia Sun & News • Reminder • Hastings Banner Keith Ferris will bring 28 years of experience in transportation services to his new post as a member of the Michigan Truck Safety Commission. Ferris of his appointment. “It just takes work to make things better.” Established by public Act 51 of 1951, the commission is made up of 11 members, with seven members appointed by the governor, and meets bimonthly. Over 64,000 Papers Distributed Every Week! 1351 N. M-43 Highway • P.O. Box 188 Hastings, MI 49058 Phone (269) 945-9554 • Fax (269) 945-5192 �Page 4 — Thursday, January 12, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Grow jobs by preparing students for world of work Trio of trumpeters Trumpeter swans have made a comeback in West Michigan and are a familiar site on many lakes and waterways in Barry County. Amateur photographer Glen Guernsey took this photo on one of his outdoor adventures. Do you have a photo to share? We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Do you know? Material possessions Do you recognize these ladies or remember why they were displaying what seems to be the latest designs in the material world? When and where was this photo taken? Is it in the basement of a building? Unlike many of the unidentified photos in the Banner archives, this one has a little bit more information. Someone, likely the late local historian Esther Walton, attached a note to the back of the photo that reads, “Marjorey Dryer and Co. Extension Agent Social Services.” Which one is Marjorey? What was the Extension agent’s name? How are social services tied to these pieces of fabric? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@j-adgraphics.com, or call 269-945-9554. Last week’s photo was from inside Highland’s Dairy, which was on West Green Street near Cook Road, next to Patten Monument. Tom Gibson called to say that was his dad, Ray Gibson, in a white hat in the center of the photo. He thought the other man in a white hat was Stanley Stauffer, and Stauffer’s niece Jan and daughter Nancy called to say it was indeed Stanley. Still, no one recognized the other people in the photo or knew why the photo had been taken in the first place. One caller remembered that the dairy had begun processing milk in halfpints, the size still available to school chil- Have you dren. Tom Gibson was certain of the taste and quality of the ice cream the dairy made — rich and creamy. He recalled going with his mom to pick up his dad after work, and having the enviable task of “cleaning” the scoops. “Good memories,” he said. met? From the time she married Carl and moved to his hometown of Freeport in 1947, Marge Barcroft has always had a place in her heart for the village — even after she and Carl bought a farm in Carlton Center and then, in later years, moved to Hastings. She’s back in Freeport — along with others who’s hearts never left — on the second Wednesday of every month as part of the Freeport Over 50 group’s potluck lunches. The group will meet again Feb. 8 with Hosea Humphrey providing entertainment. It’s the contacts she’s made at every stop that help make the group so successful, she said, sometimes numbering some 50 people who come back for lunch, for entertainment and for the warm friendship for which Freeport has always been known. For that love, Marge is a Barry County “bright light.” If you know of other lights who make Barry County shine, call us at 269-945-9554. Best advice I ever received: Don’t get angry — it’s not worth it. Best book I ever read: The Bible, especially the book of Jeremiah. When I grow I want to be: A wife and a Marge Barcroft mother again. (Marge and Carl had two children, Debby and Tony). If I could change one thing: I’d bring peace to the world — between every group, too, including Islams and Christians. Best gift I ever received: I’ve had so many, but as a child, I had polio and I remember a meaningful gift from my aunt, a stuffed kitten called ‘Kitty Cuddles.’ I just burned it three or four years ago — its fur was all worn. The greatest thing about Barry County: Our lakes and scenery. The person I most admire: Leora Smith, my third and fourth grade teacher. She wanted us all to use our talents. She encouraged us. If I won the lottery: I give most of it away. I’d save enough to live on, of course. Greatest song ever written: ‘God Bless America.’ I was the state soloist for the Oddfellows and Rebekahs and sang that song over and over. If I were president: I’d do a whole lot of different things with jobs. I’d use tariffs so products made so cheaply couldn’t compete with products made here. Favorite cartoon character: Oh, Mickey Mouse, for sure. But Bugs Bunny runs a close second. Age: 86, but my spirit is far less than that. According to a poll released by the Associated Press, most high school students feel that they aren’t fully prepared and equipped for college. Students say they lack guidance toward a college education and preparation for the work force, especially due to the economic crisis impacting recent college graduates. The poll, which surveyed 18- to 24year-olds, found that the majority gave their high school low grades in helping identify a path of college. Many said they felt their school didn’t help in choosing a field of study in finding the right college or trade program, or suggesting a program of study. A report recently released by ACT said students should start career planning as early as middle school and should evaluate their interests along with their academic strengths and weaknesses as they begin to consider post-secondary and career options. The report went on to say that for students to be successful, middle school counselors should be talking to them about their academic abilities, as well as identifying broad career fields consistent with their interests. By working with students to better understand the relationship between academic coursework and future careers, we — teachers, parents and society in general — can better prepare our young people for the world of work. I was fortunate to have grown up in a family business, offering numerous opportunities to learn various trades. In fact, my dad pushed my siblings and me to learn all the facets of producing a newspaper with the understanding that any area could provide employment for a lifetime. For several years now, Michigan educational institutions have been forced to focus on preparing students for college, discounting the need of any ‘job training.’ Yet recently, there’s been a renewed emphasis on career-focused education, for both college and for going to work. Leaders from business and industry have found it harder to find young people with adequate job-ready skills. Over the years, most high schools have reduced or done away with many career training curriculums, due to state-mandated collegebound curriculums. The problem, however, is that not everyone is going, or should go, on to college. In fact, in Barry County upwards of 50 percent of high school students won’t go to college, so offering career training is imperative if we expect half of our graduates to enter the job market right after high school. In today’s highly technical and specialized economy, it’s crucial that high school graduates receive some career training during high school or following graduation. Without it, their ability to find a good job will become more difficult as the number of jobs available to people without a high school diploma or some specialized training decreases. Business experts proclaim that access to talent is one of the most important factors for business expansion. Michigan was just named No. 1 in the nation for research and development of facility project announcements, beating out Ohio, Pennsylvania, Indiana and North Carolina. According to Site Selection magazine, Michigan’s solid base of engineering talent and the strength of its research universities were cited as the biggest reasons for the strong research and development activity. What do you If Michigan’s middle and high school curriculums once again offered career preparation, then not only would the state receive recognition for its highly skilled talent, it would offer companies a trained and ready workforce with the necessary skills needed to compete in a global marketplace. Local high schools are fortunate to have programs that provide hands-on learning, often in the form of a competition, that not only force the students to learn job skills outside of class, but also expose them to a variety of careers. Some of these programs include Business Professionals of America, FFA, Science Olympiad and the Michigan Industrial and Technology Education Society. Business experts proclaim that access to talent is one of the most important factors for business expansion. Michigan was just named No. 1 in the nation for research and development of facility project announcements, beating out Ohio, Pennsylvania, Indiana and North Carolina. Beginning next month, Hastings High School, in cooperation with Kellogg Community College, will offer industrial welding training. The program will be for high school students seeking a trade skill, and for adult worker referred by their local company and for continuing education. The focus for all the participants will be training in several areas of industrial arts and ready-to-work programs. Students completing the training could receive more than 25 college credits and increase their employment potential. The program will operate two nights a week, Monday and Wednesday from 4 to 9 p.m. Kellogg Community College will provide the expert training while Hastings schools provide the location. The class will give high school students the opportunity to learn a trade and increase their employability while still in school. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, more than 1.5 million students leave high school each year inadequately trained for many entry-levels jobs. This new training program makes it possible for local industrial employers to take advantage of an ongoing group of candidates with specialized training and readyto-work skills. It’s time to re-tool our high schools in preparing our students for college or some post-secondary training, but most importantly to prepare graduates to enter the workforce with basic skills necessary to contend in a highly competitive workplace. To think that our young people lack some technical skills is absurd. Most elementary students have a good grasp of technology, yet we continue to accept the fact that graduating seniors have little or no ready-to-work skills. The state’s blueprint for education must include translating educational success in the classroom to jobs offered in business and industry – only then will Michigan once again become an industrial giant. Fred Jacobs, vice president J-Ad Graphics think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website, www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question . . . and don’t forget to use our new feature, leave us a comment. Last week’s question: Of the 35 football bowl games televised this season, only four were available to network television viewers, forcing fans to purchase cable television packages to enjoy major sporting events in their homes. Should more games — including major games like the Rose Bowl and the national championship game — be deemed public property and be shown on network television? For this week: Friday, at the semi-annual State Revenue Estimating Conference in Lansing, state leaders will be discussing how to allocate a projected state tax surplus of some $400 million. If that surplus is realized, should it be designated to restore cuts made due to past shortfalls or saved toward a projected $1.8 billion budget shortfall for the next fiscal year? q Spend on program restorations 73% — Yes q 27% — No Save for next fiscal year �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 12, 2012 — Page 5 Hastings Exchange Club announces January Young Citizens Hastings Middle School Young Citizens for January are (from left) Caitlin Hyland, Katherine Weinbrecht, Caitlin Morris, Macey Shotts and Principal Chris Cooley. Central Elementary School’s Young Citizens for January are Owen Witt (left) and Ellena Keener, with teacher Jill Smith. Jared Burger (left) and Victoria Byykkonen, pictured here with teacher Trisha Kietzman, are the Young Citizens for January at Southeastern Elementary School. St. Rose Young Citizen for the month of January is sixth grader Emma Beemer. She is joined by teacher Amy Murphy. Libby Jensen (left) and Shelby Bolen are Northeastern’s Young Citizens for January. They are joined by teacher Don Schils. A compilation of late-breaking state news that carries relevance to Barry County and all state residents wishing to stay informed on latest trends. Legalize marijuana petition drive begins The official petition drive to legalize marijuana in Michigan started Wednesday and needs 322,000 signatures to put the proposal on the November ballot to make pot legal for people ages 21 and older. The petition filing deadline will be July 9. In the meantime, some Lansing lawmakers want to go in the opposite direction. The 2012 legislative session also began on Wednesday and will consider proposals to put new restrictions on Michigan’s voter-approved medical marijuana law. Any changes will require a three-quarter ‘super majority’ vote since the law was voter-approved. In Hastings Wednesday, Jan. 24, State Rep. Mike Callton will conduct a town hall meeting on the medical marijuana issue with Judge Amy McDowell as guest speaker. That meeting will begin at 7 p.m. at the Commission on Aging, 320 W. Woodlawn. Michigan No. 1 for R&D Named Young Citizens for January at Star Elementary School are Whitney Carlson (left) and Connor Parmenter, joined here by teacher Julie Carlson. The Hastings Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Casey Cheney Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Helen Mudry • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 Good news for Michigan: Site Selection magazine has named Michigan the top state in the nation for research and development facility project announcements — beating out Ohio, Pennsylvania, Indiana and North Carolina, among others. Michigan was also in the top 10 for the reported investment and job creation plans associated with the announced projects. Michigan’s strong base of engineering talent and the strength of its research universities are cited as the biggest reasons for the R&D activity. The state is also ranked No. 5 of 12 top states for bachelor’s degrees conferred in the field of engineering. In Barry County, Kellogg Community College’s Regional Manufacturing Technology Center is launching a welding training program that will help strengthen those engineering and job skills ties that are attracting R&D projects to Michigan. Power of state emergency managers being tested A group wanting to end the expanded powers given to state emergency financial managers needs just over 161,000 valid signatures to temporarily suspend the expanded powers given to emergency financial managers appointed to turn around troubled municipalities an schools in the state. Stand Up For Democracy would use the petition drive for the temporary suspension of the law and for a placement on the November ballot. Supporters of the new law say it’s needed to help fix financially troubled schools and cities. Emergency managers are now in charge of finances in the cities of Benton Harbor, Ecorse, Flint, and Pontiac as well as Detroit Public Schools. The City of Detroit is under a state financial review that could result in the governor appointing an emergency manager. Auto show season underway The North American International Auto show began Monday at Cobo Center in Detroit with press previews of future models and concept vehicles for nearly 5,000 journalists from around the world. This year’s annual show is significant in that American manufacturers General Motors, Ford and Chrysler are again operating at a profit. Nissan, Toyota and Honda are expected to be stronger after rebuilding following last year’s earthquake in Japan. Hybrids and electric cars will be more commonplace. Absent this year will be a presence by Chinese automakers. This year’s show opens to the public Saturday and runs through Jan. 22. Our area will get its own preview when the annual Michigan International Auto Show comes to DeVos Place in Grand Rapids Jan. 24 to 29. Barry County will again be represented by a collection of classic cars from the Gilmore Car Museum in Hickory Corners, including the iconic Tucker and more. Local high school students enrolled in the Gilmore Garage Works program will be representing the museum and their schools. Three Michigan USDA offices on list of closures In a move U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack called a Blueprint for Stronger Service to increase efficiency in operations, 259 USDA offices will be closed, including three in Michigan. “The USDA, like families and businesses across the country, cannot continue to operate like we did 50 years ago,” Vilsack said in a press release Monday. “We must innovate, modernize and be better stewards of the taxpayers’ dollars.” The three offices to be shuttered in Michigan are in Marquette, Grand Rapids and Portage. All three provide a different USDA function. The Marquette office serves the Natural Resource Conservation Service, the Grand Rapids office works with the Food and Nutrition Service, and the Portage site is a Farm Service Agency Office. Vilsack said some of the 259 offices are no longer staffed or have a staff of one or two people; many are within 20 miles of other USDA offices. In other cases, technology improvements, advanced service centers and broadband service have reduced some need for brick-andmortar facilities. The cuts do not come without controversy. An Associated Press Tuesday story cited concerns about food safety, increased workloads among USDA staff, and the distances between offices limiting access to the people the programs were designed to benefit. Among the other USDA cuts: consolidatation of more than 700 cell phone plans into about 10. �Page 6 — Thursday, January 12, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads Area Obituaries Lyle A. Carey 24 Hours a Day - 7 Days a Week Worship Together… Patricia June Greenfield John Hudson Crane, Jr. HASTINGS, MI - Patricia June Greenfield passed away Wednesday, January 11, 2012 at Thornapple Manor in Hastings. Arrangements are pending at Girrbach Funeral Home, please visit the website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net for the arrangements as they become available. 77565003 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Paul Osborn, Minister of Music; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service, Jr. & Sr. High Groups. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. HASTINGS SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH 904 Terry Lane, Hastings (or on the corner of Starr School Road and Terry Lane.) Phone: (269) 9452170. Pastor Michael Wise. www.hastingssda.com Sabbath (Saturday) School 9:30 a.m.; worship service 10:50 a.m. Mid-week meetings informal study and prayer service, Wednesdays 7 p.m. Youth ministry clubs, Adventurers for pre-school to 4th grade students and Pathfinders for 5th grade students through high school, meet on the first and third Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. and first and third Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. respectively. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:304:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. CHURCH OF THE LIVING GOD A full gospel church. 1240 W. State Rd., Hastings. Pastor Doug Davis. 269-948-9740. Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study 6 p.m. Sunday School and Youth Group for all ages. Come and worship the Lord with us! . QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. ORANGEVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH 6921 Marsh Rd., 2 miles south of Gun Lake, Plainwell. Phone 269664-4377. OrangevilleBaptist. org. Pastors Dan Bowman and Adam Parmenter. Sunday - 9:45 a.m. Adult Classes Offered: 1) Book of James; 2) Book of Jude; 3) Young Adult Class. Children, teen and adult Sunday School classes; 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Worship; 5:30 p.m. Junior and Senior High Word of Life Clubs. Tuesday - 9 a.m. Men’s Prayer and Bible Study. Wednesday - 6:30 p.m. Pre-school through 6th grade Word of Life Gophers & Olympians. Prayer & Bible Study - 7 p.m. 6 p.m. Teen Word of Life. Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University - 13 weeks - January-March. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Phone 269-721-8077. Minister Ryan Wieland 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Praise Worship Service; Noon alternate weekends Youth Group Tuesday. Covenant Prayer Group, Wednes-day 6:30 p.m., Choir Practice. Thursday 7 p.m. Praise Band Practice. 2nd and 4th Thursdays at 7 p.m. Christ’s Quilters. Friday 6:30 p.m., CPRChrist’s Plan for Recovery (meal served). For more information small groups, special evnts or if you have a prayer requst, call the church office and see postings on WEB site: www.countrychapel. umc.org. SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-795-2370 and the rectory number is 269-948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/ andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616-731-5194 or -517-8521806. HASTINGS REFORMED CHURCH “A Historic Reformed Community.” Sunday morning services begin at 10 a.m. Meeting at the Barry County Commission on Aging building, 320 W. Woodlawn Ave., Hastings. Pastor: Peter Adams. 616690-8609 padams@juno.com. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 9:15 Contempor-ary Worship, 10:30 a.m. Refreshments, 11 a.m. Traditional Worship. Sunday School for PreK-2nd and 3rd-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. The Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-9482673 for additional information. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! January 15 -Worship at 8 & 10:45 a.m. Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. Holy Communion Every Sunday! Jan. 15 - Men’s AA 7 p.m. Jan. 16 Adventurers Bible Study 7 p.m. Jan. 18 - Wordwatchers Bible Study 10 a.m. 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 945-2645, fax 269-945-2698. Pastor Amy Luckey http://www.discover-grace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 9 a.m. Worship Service Traditional; 10 a.m. Sunday School for All Ages; 11 a.m. Worship Service - Contemporary; 6:00 Youth Group. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot .com. Thursday - 9 a.m. Men’s Bible Study; 11:30 Women’s Brown Bag Bible Study; 5:30 p.m. Walk Away Winter; 6:30 p.m. Choir Rehearsal. Friday - 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday - 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday - 5 p.m. Pickleball; 5:30 p.m. Walk Away Winter; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball. Fiberglass Products 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 HASTINGS, MI - Lyle A. Carey, of Hastings, formerly of Mulliken, age 83, died January 8, 2012. Mr. Carey was born November 28, 1928 in Chester Township, a son of Clare and Josephine Carey. He was a navy veteran of World War II and the Korean Conflict. A retired G.M. employee, he was a former Boy Scout leader, pilot, musician and a member of the Mulliken F. & A.M. #412. Lyle was preceded in death by his wife, Doris; granddaughter, Danielle Kristine Carey; parents; two sisters and two brothers. Surviving are his daughter, Ann Carey Hall of Lansing; two sons, Daniel (Cynthia) Carey of Portland and Robert (Cathy) Carey of Coldwater; six grandchildren and six greatgrandchildren. Services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday (today), January 12, 2012 at Barker-Leik Funeral Home, Mulliken, with Pastor Don Woolum officiating. Interment will be in Meadowbrook Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Barry County Commission on Aging (Hastings). Charles “Darrell” Mauk HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Pastor of Senior Adults and Visitation, Don Brail. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. for children, youths and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Senior High Youth Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesday MidWeek: 6:30-7:45 p.m. Pioneer Clubs, age 4th to 5th grade, and Junior High Youth Group, 6th-8th grade. Thursday: 10 a.m. Senior Adult Discussion and 11:30 a.m., lunch at Wendy’s. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Lauer Family Funeral Homes Lorena May Friend 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 DELTON, MI - Charles “Darrell” Mauk (also known as, Poppy), age 66, of Delton passed away Monday, January 9, 2012 at his home. He was born and raised in Battle Creek, the son of Charles and Esther (Rosbrough) Mauk. Darrell attended Springfield High School, graduating in 1963. He then attained his Millwright Apprenticeship, local 2252/1102. Darrell worked as a millwright with local 2252/1102 from age 18 until he retired at age 52. He worked in many areas in Michigan, Ohio and Indiana. Darrell married Deborah J. Poyer of Battle Creek on July 3, 1999. He was a proud member of local 2252/1102 for 47 years. Darrell enjoyed Harley riding, cooking, hunting, fishing and spending time with family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Esther (Rosbrough) Mauk. Darrell is survived by his wife, Debbie (Poyer) Mauk; sons, Brett (Joanie) Mauk and Bart Mauk; stepson, Randee Poyer; grandchildren, Charles Mauk, Josh Mauk, Hunter Mauk, Alex Mauk, Audrey Feltner-Poyer and James Poyer; sisters, Cecil (Robert) Tatro of Battle Creek and Annette Wolf of Westminister, SC. Memorial contributions may be made to Hickory Corners Bible Church, P.O. Box 187, Hickory Corners, MI 49060. Respecting Darrell’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held in late April. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc. in Hastings, MI, please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message to the family. HASTINGS, MI - Lorena May Friend, age 97, of Hastings, passed away on January 10, 2012 at Pennock Health Services. She was born May 29, 1914 in Battle Creek, the daughter of Gabriel D. and Addie M. (Holcomb) Rau. Lorena graduated from Battle Creek High School in 1933. She married Ross O. Fruin in 1936. After 50 years of marriage, Ross passed away from cancer. May 1990, Lorena married Wesley C. Friend. Lorena worked for Barry County Friend of the Court for 20 years. She was a member of the Nashville United Methodist Church. She enjoyed quilting, crocheting, bowling and taking lots of trips to Texas. Lorena was preceded in death by her parents; husbands, Ross in 1986 and Wesley in 1996. Lorena is survived by the three children, Phillip O. (Carolyn) Fruin of San Antonio, TX, Paul R. (Marian Sue) Fruin and Phyllis L. (George) Lietz of Hastings; sister, Loretta M. (Bernard) Hammond of Banfield; stepdaughter, Dorothy (Russel) Kelly; stepson, Wesley (Kaye) Friend; nine grandchildren, Barbara (Rick) Dyke, Betty Fruin of Texas, Terese (Benjamin) Woodward of Belize, Mark (Laura) Purchis, Martin (Pamela) Purchis of Texas, Ross Fruin, Steven Fruin, Terry Fruin, Angela (John) Palacios of Michigan; 10 great grandchildren; 14 step grandchildren, four great great grandchildren and eight great great stepgrandchildren. Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 12, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Lauer Family Funeral Homes – Wren Chapel located at 1401 N. Broadway in Hastings. Services will be held on Friday, January 13, 2012 at 11 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in Nashville located at 210 Washington in Nashville with a short visitation held prior to the services from 10 to 11 a.m. Burial will take place at Union Cemetery. Please share a memory with Lorena’s family at www. lauerfh.com John Hudson Crane, Jr., age 67, passed away gracefully at his home on January 4, 2012. He was born on January 23, 1944 in Houston, TX. He grew up in Youngstown, OH, then attended high school in Park Forest, IL and New Buffalo, MI, graduating from New Buffalo in 1962. He attended Western Michigan University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in earth science and psychology and a master’s degree in earth science. Teaching was his avocation and passion. He planned to be a teacher when he was in fifth grade. He began his career at Orchard View, teaching there one year. The next 28 years were spent teaching middle school science and physical education at Lakewood Public Schools, Lake Odessa. He continued on at Lakewood as a para professional for 14 years after retiring from full-time teaching. During his entire career he also taught many after school enrichment classes, particularly chess, which was another passion. He never tired of the students and considered his career in education and the ability to help his students learn and grow to be his greatest achievements in life. He retired from Lakewood in February of 2011. John had many interests and hobbies, including water skiing, in which he excelled, bicycling, body building, canoeing, camping, cross country skiing, and hiking. In high school he participated in football and track. His sprinting ability earned him the nickname “Rocket” at New Buffalo High School. His other hobbies included astronomy, birding, photography, and celestial navigation. In June of 1971, he married his wife of 40 years, Kathleen (Dorman) Crane. They shared many of the same interests and pursuits and were a complement to each other. He is survived by his wife, Kathleen; sister, Judith Koontz; brother, Randall (Cindy) Crane; stepmother, Madeline Crane; stepsisters, Lyn (Chuck) Zilch and Judy (Dick) Weir; nieces, Suzanne Dorman, Kristine (Dorman) McCombs, Madeline and Morgan Crane; nephews, John Koontz, William Crane, and Michael (Shannan) and Lewis Dorman. He was preceded in death by his mother, Edwinna Jarrard Crane; father, John H. Crane, Sr.; and stepmother, Joan Owens Crane. Memorial contributions can be made to the John H. Crane Memorial Chess Fund at the Hastings Public Library, 227 E. State St., Hastings, MI 49058. According to his wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 21, 2012 at Girrbach Funeral Home, 328 South Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Visitation will be from 2 to 3 p.m. Services will take place at 3 p.m. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a message or memory for the family. FAMILY FUNERAL HOMES James Richard Lingholm NASHVILLE, MI - James Richard Lingholm, age 56, of Nashville, died suddenly Saturday morning, January 7, 2012. He was born in Joliet, IL on October 27, 1955, the son of Eugene and Winifred (Hutchinson) Lingholm. Jim enjoyed taking part in outdoor activities, but took special pleasure in reading about the Great Lakes shipwrecks, watching NASCAR, (Dale Jr.), collecting firearms, and listening to music. He was employed for 25 years at the Charlotte Chair company before working and retiring from Magna International in Lowell. Jim is survived by his wife, Diane (Downing) Lingholm; son, Matthew James Lingholm; sisters, Patty (Bruce) Vincent, Anita (Gary) Henline, Pam (Richard) Hargus; brother, Larry Lingholm; many nieces and nephews; mother and father-in-law, Howard and Pat Downing; and special friends, Robert and Naomi Taylor. Jim’s infectious laughter and great sense of humor will be greatly missed but always remembered. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association, Grand Rapids MI Office, 2940 Broadmoor Ave., SE, Suite 100, Grand Rapids, MI 49512. A funeral service was held Wednesday, January 11, 2012, at Girrbach Funeral Home, 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Reverend Robert Taylor, officiating. Burial followed the funeral service at Hosmer Cemetery in Castelton Township. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a message or memory to the family. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 12, 2012 — Page 7 More apartments finished in downtown Hastings Hastings Area Schools boast ‘Points of Pride’ by David DeDecker Staff Writer Two apartments were recently completed on the second floor of Emmanuel House at 220 S. Broadway in Hastings. The units were completely rehabilitated with the assistance of a Michigan State Housing Development Authority grant in the amount of $70,000 and matching funds invested by the property owner. The building is owned by Emmanuel Episcopal Church, which is next door, and was originally the church’s rectory. The first floor is office space. Apartments include a stove, microwave, dishwasher, washer and dryer, air conditioning, ceiling fans and is cable ready. A bathroom, living room, bedroom and kitchen We have so many great things happening in our schools. These are definitely just a few points of pride, and in no specific order, we wanted you to know the program improvements being implemented: • Hastings Middle School partners with Pennock Hospital for diabetes education. • Credit recovery offered all school year at Hastings High School. • Parent mentoring program at Southeastern. • Partnership with Kellogg Community College and Hastings High School for a welding program. • HHS English department creates student library. • Secondary language arts teachers increase focus on reading. • Elementary teachers piloting reading and writing curriculum. • Aligning grading practices at the secondary level. • Faculty and staff members of the month recognized. • Evaluation system created in collaboration with teachers and administration. • Continuation of award-winning Business Professionals of America program. • Elementary swimming program enhanced. • Title I program redesigned. • Immediate communication with instant alert phone system. • Hastings Education Enrichment Foundation continues to support our schools with supplementary educational opportunities. • Hastings Kiwanis Club donates dictionaries to all third graders. • Schools benefit from enhanced technology in classrooms as result of school bond. • HHS forms a Big Brothers Big Sisters program involving 21 students. • Schools support the needy during holiday season. The community supports the district’s mission in educating our students; it is a vital component of our success. Our continued collaboration brightens the future for the community. Social News Modern appliances and cabinets make the new apartments at Emmanuel House make homemaking convenient at an affordable price. The former Episcopal rectory on South Broadway in Hastings now houses two newly refurbished apartments on the second floor. The apartments are designed to enliven downtown and provide modern affordable housing. Marriage Licenses BIG Banners Cody Michael Johnson, Hastings and Nicole Ann Quada, Hastings. Jacob Douglas Wede, Middleville and Toni Michelle Madden, Brant. for your Special Event! Free Home of the Brave e Thanks to th Correction Redmans to celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary Willard (Bill) and Virginia (Ginny) Redman of Hastings will celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary January 12, 2012. Willard and Virginia (Pillars) were married January 12, 1962. They have three children, Dennis (Tammy), Kenny (Sandy), Rob (Erin). They have eight grandchildren, Scott, Jeremy, Nikki, Breen, Brandon, Kenny Ray, Cody and Cailin and one great-grandchild, Carsyn. The Dec. 15, 2011, Banner article “Legal saga not quite over for Gun Lake Tribe” incorrectly stated that the case being heard in the Supreme Court could result in the closing of Gun Lake Casino. Tribal spokesperson James Nye said this case will not decide whether the land was taken into trust properly. Thus, the land will not be taken from the tribe, nor will it lose its Class III gaming capabilities. HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, Jan. 12 — Movie Memories celebrates British authors with “Wuthering Heights” (1939), 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 13 — preschool story time has fun with colors, 10:30 to 11 a.m. Monday, Jan. 16 — library closed for inservice, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; library board meets, 4 to 6 p.m.; computer class learns make the space livable for a single renter. Rent is based on income, one or two occupants, and will not exceed $487 per month. Residents moved into the apartments after the Jan. 6 open house. Only Barry County contractors and vendors were used to complete the rehabilitation, including Ace Hardware, Barry County Lumber, Bob Archambeau Tile, Brown’s Carpeting, Burkey Sales and Service, Chris Hall Drywall, D&P Painters, Dave Rausch Carpet Installers, Emmanuel Church Cleaners, Hammond Construction, Kevin’s Draperies, King’s Appliances, Kinney Plumbing, Morgan Electrical, Security Lock and Safe and Thompson Flooring. Additional units are in the final stages of construction at 149 W. State St. above Miller Real Estate and another unit in pre-construction at 118 W. State Street above FKA Back Door Deli. The units will be completed with remaining grant funds. Upon the completion, the City of Hastings will have successfully added nine units of quality housing within the downtown shopping district on the second floor of the properties. Each of the units are rented when completed. “How do I turn this darn thing on and other computer basics,” 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 17 — winter reading club for adults begins; toddler story time about winter, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.; open chess club, 6 to 8 p.m. Call Hastings Public Library for more information about, 269-945-4263. OME WELCOME H MICHAEL! OUR OWN MVP • Birthdays • Anniversaries • Graduations • Weddings • Reunions Congratulations Aaron Banners can be output in full color on bond stock, photo paper, heavy cover stock, canvas or plastic materials! 2x6 ft. Banner $ as low as 2x8 ft. Banner as low as SAME DAY SERVICE ON MOST BANNERS! DESIGN YOUR OWN CUSTOM 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 19 2012 Calendar $ as low as Call anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads 1995 $ 2495 95 FREE DOUBLE PRINTS Now thru January 27, 2012 1351 N.Broadway (M-43) Hastings 269.945.9105 OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:00 - 5:30 �Page 8 — Thursday, January 12, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of by Elaine Garlock The Lake Odessa Area Historical Society meets tonight at the Freight House at 7 p.m. The topic will be saloons of Lake Odessa. Saloon-keeping was one of the first occupations in the new village begun in 1887. Guests may bring memories of owners past and present and the location of the business. John Waite will make the initial presentation and invite additional information from the audience. Refreshments will be served. Visitors are welcome. The Ionia County Genealogical Society will meet Saturday, Jan. 14, at 1 p.m. at the Freight House. There will be a speaker, refreshments and open library time until 5 p.m. The society has lost two loyal members in recent weeks. Latest is Larry Cahoon of rural Clarksville. Larry was descended from Campbell Township pioneer Timothy White. Weeks earlier member Seymour VanDerske died near Portland. The Tri-River Museum group will meet at Bowne Center in the township hall Tuesday, Jan. 17. John Crane, 67, of Hastings died last week. He was a Lakewood Middle School teacher for 28 years and followed this career with 14 years as a para-professional. Few people have spent 42 years in the local school system. The lot north of First Congregational CHurch has been totally redone to be a flat surface with no traces of there ever having been a house and garage on the property. The double garage was removed to a rural location for continued use as a garage. The lot in time will be used as a parking lot for churchgoers. This will add to the safety of church attenders who had been parking on Fourth Avenue with its risk of being struck by passing cars. The weather has been newsworthy with its higher-than-normal temperatures and the lack of snow. There has been measurable snowfall a few times but far less than in a normal year. NOTICE OF MEETING DATES FOR THE FOLLOWING GROUPS Barry County Planning Commission will meet on the following dates or at the call of the chair. The meetings start at 7:00 PM. February 27, 2012 March 26, 2012 April 23, 2012 July 23, 2012 August 27, 2012 September 24, 2012 October 22, 2012 November 26, 2012 Barry County Zoning Board of Appeals will meet on the following dates or at the call of the chair. The meetings start at 7:00 PM. January 9, 2012 February 13, 2012 March 12, 2012 April 9, 2012 June 11, 2012 August 13, 2012 September 10, 2012 October 8, 2012 November 12, 2012 The meeting room for both groups is in the Community Room at the Courts & Law Building located at 206 West Court Street, Hastings, Michigan. The County of Barry will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/hearing upon ten (10) days notice to the County of Barry. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the County of Barry by writing or call the following: MICHAEL BROWN COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR 220 WEST STATE STREET HASTINGS, MI 49058 (269) 945-1284 77565051 When should you start taking Social Security? If you’re of a certain age, the new year means you’re that much closer to a day you may have anticipated with a combination of humor and resignation — specifically, the day you’re eligible for Social Security. But just because you can take Social Security, it doesn’t mean you must take it. So, should you? Before we get to that question, let’s review the basic rules governing Social Security payments. You can typically start collecting benefits at age 62, but you’ll get only about 75% of what you’d receive if you waited until your “full” retirement age, which varies according to your birth year but is most likely 66. You’ll get even bigger monthly checks if you delay collecting them until you’re past 66, and you’ll “max out” on your payments once you reach 70. So, the question boils down to this: Should you start collecting Social Security early — thereby receiving smaller, but more numerous, checks — or later, when your checks will be bigger but fewer? If you really need the money once you reach 62, you’ve already got your answer. But if you could potentially afford to wait, we recommend you view your decision through a LENS: • L: Your projected lifespan —You can’t see into the future, but given your family history and general health, you can make an educated guess about your projected longevity. If you’re fairly confident that, once you reach 66, you’ve still got another two or more decades in front of you, you may want to consider delaying taking Social Security past age 62. • E: Your employment status — If you’re under full retirement age — between 62 and 66 — then for every two dollars you earn over $14,640 (in 2012), you’ll lose one dollar in Social Security benefits. In the months before you reach your full retirement age, for every three dollars you earn over $38,880 (again, for 2012), you’ll lose one dollar in benefits. But starting in the month you reach your full retirement age, you can earn as much as you want without losing any benefits. • N: Your need, including your other sources of retirement income — If you have a pension, or you’ve built substantial resources in your IRA, your 401(k) or other employersponsored retirement plan, and you can support your income needs with modest withdrawals from these accounts, you might decide it’s worthwhile to delay taking Social Security to maximize your benefits. Remember that regardless of your Social Security decision, you typically would have to pay a 10% early withdrawal penalty if you started taking withdrawals from these accounts before you reach age 591/2. • S: Your spouse/marital status — If you’re single, you basically just need to think of yourself when making this decision. But it’s a different story if you’re married. If you die first, your spouse can keep receiving his or her own Social Security benefit or receive yours — whichever is larger. Consequently, you and your spouse will want to coordinate when you take Social Security benefits so that you can maximize the benefit for the spouse likeliest to live longer. The choice of when to start taking Social Security can affect your lifestyle throughout your retirement years — so weigh all the fac- tors and make the choice that’s right for you. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 28.91 +.35 AT&T 29.76 -.62 BP PLC 44.39 +.25 CMS Energy Corp 21.75 -.07 Coca-Cola Co 69.34 -.80 Eaton 47.74 +2.25 Family Dollar Stores 53.80 -3.61 Fifth Third Bancorp 13.85 +.77 Flowserve CP 105.27 +3.34 Ford Motor Co. 11.80 +.67 General Mills 40.33 +.03 General Motors 23.24 +2.19 Intel Corp. 25.59 +1.05 Kellogg Co. 51.40 +.94 McDonald’s Corp 99.70 +.86 Pfizer Inc. 21.94 -.03 Ralcorp 86.79 +1.53 Sears Holding 30.46 -.97 Spartan Motors 5.05 +.01 Spartan Stores 17.17 -1.70 Stryker 52.26 +1.19 TCF Financial 11.26 +.60 Walmart Stores 59.04 -1.29 Gold $1,631.48 +26.73 Silver $29.87 +.23 Dow Jones Average 12,462 +65 Volume on NYSE 790M -17M SENATE CANDIDATES, continued from page 1 derived from a post as the federal bankruptcy trustee for the state-owned and funded Ann Arbor railroad which he took from being $100 million in debt and on the verge of liquidation to solvency and private ownership, a process which generated jobs and tax revenue. Durant held a second federal post as chairman of the board of the Legal Services Agency, a public agency devoted to providing legal assistance to poor people. The post was most notable for him because as he said, “I realized the greatest obstacle to justice is the legal profession,” a statement that put him significantly at odds with his own profession. Durant’s career in education has included a stop at Hillsdale College as vice president, where he founded a publication called Imprimus. After becoming a member of the Michigan bar, he practiced law with his father in Detroit. He has been a candidate for the Michigan Supreme Court City of Hastings COUNTY OF BARRY, STATE OF MICHIGAN PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given of the regular meetings scheduled for calendar year 2012 for the City Council and other Boards and Commissions of the City of Hastings. The City of Hastings will provide necessary reasonable aids and services for individuals with disabilities upon five days notice to the City Clerk. Individuals requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the City Clerk of the City of Hastings at (269) 945-2468 or by visiting City Hall at 201 East State Street, Hastings. The HASTINGS CITY COUNCIL will meet on the Second and Fourth Monday of each month at 7:00 PM in the City Council Chambers located on the 2nd Floor of City Hall. When any of these meetings would fall on a recognized holiday, Council will meet on the following business day. Council may also meet in properly called and noticed special sessions. For 2012, the dates of regular Council meetings are: January 9 and 23 May 14 and 29 (Tuesday) September 10 and 24 February 13 and 27 June 11 and 25 October 8 and 22 March 12 and 26 July 9 and 23 November 13 (Tuesday) and 26 April 9 and 23 August 13 and 27 December 10 and 26 (Wednesday) The PLANNING COMMISSION for the City of Hastings will meet on the First Monday of each month at 7:00 PM in the City Council Chambers on the 2nd Floor of City Hall. Exceptions for 2012 are: January’s meeting will be Tuesday, January 3, 2012 and September’s meeting will be Tuesday, September 4, 2012. The ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS for the City of Hastings will meet on the Third Tuesday of each month at 7:00 PM in the City Council Chambers on the 2nd Floor of City Hall. The DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY for the City of Hastings will meet on the Third Thursday of each month at 8:00 AM in the Conference Room on the 2nd Floor of City Hall. The LOCAL DEVELOPMENT FINANCE AUTHORITY/BROWNFIELD REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY for the City of Hastings will meet on the Third Wednesday of each month at 8:00 AM in the Conference Room on the 2nd Floor of City Hall. The HASTINGS CITY/BARRY COUNTY AIRPORT COMMISSION will meet on the Fourth Wednesday of each month at 4:30 PM at the Airport located at 2505 Murphy Drive. The HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD will meet on the Third Monday of each month at 4:00 PM at the Library, 227 E. State Street, Hastings. The CABLE ACCESS COMMITTEE for the City of Hastings will meet on the Third Monday of each month at 7:00 PM in the Conference Room on the 2nd Floor of City Hall. The HASTINGS OUTDOOR NATURE AREA BOARD for the City of Hastings will meet quarterly in January, April, July and October on the Second Wednesday of the month at 7:00 PM in the Conference Room on the 2nd Floor of City Hall. Thomas E. Emery City Clerk 77565088 EDWARD JONES and the state board of education and has served as president of the state board of education. He has supported the establishment of charter schools. His relationship with Cornerstone Schools spans more than 20 years, first as a cofounder and later as chief executive officer. Durant pointed out that he has direct roots to the Tea Party, being a “direct descendant of two who responded to Lexington in 1775.” Durant related that “The U.S. is the only country founded on an idea: All men are created equal; and are endowed by their creator with certain inalienable rights. A gift from a living God.” He followed that statement with the question, “Are we using them?” Durant related that question to the very sobering experience of having his son look at him and tell him that it was Durant’s generation that made the mess; the message was to fix it. In one of his few direct disagreements with Glenn, Durant established a distinctive position. “If Stabenow was the issue, I would not have run,” he stated. “The country is in the middle of a generational debate. The way it goes will affect us for the next 50 or 60 years.” Durant went on to explain that there have been other such elections in our history, and cited 1800, 1860, 1932, and 1980. The peaceful transition of power to an opposing party occurs in 1800; in 1861, the Republican party is founded because the Whig party cannot find an answer to the question of half-slave, half-free; in 1932 Roosevelt espouses a series of decisions which have ramifications for today; and 1980 is the beginning of the Reagan era, which Durant said was a period of greatness. Now it is 2012, Durant stated, a year which has the opportunity to be the second shot heard round the world. [The first shot at Lexington and Concord is often described as “the shot heard round the world.] A brief question and answer period followed the candidate presentations. Responding to a question about the National Defense Authorization Act recently signed by the president, both Durant and Glenn agreed that a provision authorizing the detention of American citizens without cause was unconstitutional. Glenn would repeal the act because it has a very vague hate crimes provision. Responding to a question about judicial appointments, Durant said he would not accept any judicial candidate who did not have a paper trail. There would be no secretive judicial appointments on his watch. Perhaps the most relevant question of the evening judging from the audience reaction to it was, “What guarantees do I have that you won’t become part of the Washington culture?” Glenn responded, “Only one of ten remembers they are representing the people. You need a senator who will fight Mitch McConnell (R-Kentucky, Senate Minority Leader) as vigorously as Harry Reid (D-Nevada, Senate Majority Leader). His remark was greeted with lots of applause. Responding to the same question, Durant said, “Look at the last 40 years of my life. Have stood up to all of this.” He noted that he had also organized kids to stand up for deafness. A related question was would the loser in the primary support the winner in the general election. Each man unequivocally answered he would. Both men received a standing ovation. Barry County Tea Party Chairman Gary Munson thanked the audience for coming and adjourned the meeting. Ray L. Girrbach Owner/Director 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 • 269-945-3252 Serving Hastings, Barry County and Surrounding Communities for 45 years •Traditional and Cremation Services •Pre-Planning Services •Large Parking Lot - Handicap Accessible •Serving All Faiths •Pre-arrangement Transfers Accepted Family Owned and Operated www.girrbachfuneralhome.net �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 12, 2012 — Page 9 William W. Potter opened a law office in Hastings in 1895. He went on to become a judge and authored the 1912 History of Barry County. News from 1895, part 2 This continuation of the recap of the year 1895, was published in the Feb. 9, 1953, Hastings Banner. ***** by M. L. Cook March 10 - A very novel case, says the same Banner, will come before Justice Kenaston tomorrow. At the annual school meeting in the Pratt district, Hastings Township, J.W. Cutler presided. There were two candidates for director – Mr. Cutler and Henry Miller. After the vote was taken, Mr. Cutler announced it as follows: “Eight votes have been cast for Henry Miller, and 12 votes for “‘your humble servant.’” Mr. Miller’s term as director ended with that meeting, but he could, under the law, serve until his successor was elected and qualified. When Cutler asked Miller for the director’s books and records, Miller refused to surrender them. He claimed that his successor was never named by the presiding officer of the school meeting. That officer merely said “your humble servant” received 12 votes, but never designated the choice. The writer was unable to find in subsequent issues how this case was decided. On June 20, at the Episcopal church, occurred the wedding of Dr. C.P. Lathrop and Miss Arloa McOmber. The best wishes of a host of friends are theirs. There were 22 members in the graduating class this year. The 13th annual reunion and banquet of Hastings High School alumni was held at the Episcopal parish house. Banner July 4 - In the same issue is a lengthy article about the Wool Boot Co. It has had to add a night crew for the entire summer, and is employing over 100 hands. The Banner of July 11 states that R.I. Sprague of Coats Grove was so badly injured on July 4 that he died. He was in a crowd in front of the blacksmith shop there watching the firing of a couple of anvils, placed one on top of the other, and bound by a strip of iron. The explosion shattered that strip, a piece striking and penetrating his side. R.M. Lambie of Grand Ledge has joined E.W. Morrill in the clothing business and will move to this city. The small son of Levant McIntyre of Hastings Township, came with his parents to spend the 4th with Mr. and Mrs. J.T. Lombard and family. He and the Lombard girls went shooting small firecrackers in the yard. It occurred to him to climb up on a ladder on the back porch, and fire the crackers from that. In going up the ladder, some of the “fire” he was taking with him dropped into a large basket filled with skyrocket, Roman candles and giant firecrackers. In very short order, the rockets and candles were spouting flames and the big crackers were roaring. Luckily, no one was hurt and the only damage was a big black spot on the porch. John L. Petrie, mail carrier on the HastingsBanfield route, was so badly injured in Battle Creek Tuesday that he died later that week in Nichols Hospital in that city. He rode his wheel to that city to attend a gathering of cyclists. As he approached the Michigan Central [railroad] crossing, the gate started down. He thought he could get across the tracks before the other gate descended, so he was caught on the track by the train, and so badly hurt that his death resulted. Saturday, Stephen Yeckley was driving to his home in Rutland. With him on the wagon seat was E. Reynolds. In descending a hill, a tug became unhitched. It struck the horse’s leg, and it kicked lustily. Then both horses ran away, throwing the two men into the roadway. Reynolds escaped with three broken ribs and several bruises. Mr. Yeckley was not so fortunate. His skull was fractured. He was unconscious when picked up and has remained in that condition. It is feared that he cannot recover. Friday night and Saturday the prolonged drouth ended and copious rains fell. And folks are happier. A young man in a neighboring town was arrested for kissing a young woman against her will. His defense was that she wore bloomers and he mistook her for his long lost brother. He was acquitted. William W. Potter, son of Capt. E.B. Potter, of Maple Grove, will open a law office in Hastings. He graduated from Nashville High School, also the State Normal College. He was superintendent of the Harrison schools for four years, and graduated from the law department of out state university in June. – Banner August 22. A lot of excitement in town over the disappearance of attorney William O. Lowden, says the Banner of Sept. 12. Robert Bryan was instantly killed and Mrs. Henry Ragla, it is feared, was fatally injured in a dynamite explosion in Carlton. Mr. Bryan was driving a pipe for a new well. The pipe struck a big rock. Mr. Bryan decided to break the rock by dropping dynamite into the pipe. He was pounding dynamite into a small lead pipe for that purpose when it exploded with fatal results to him and serious injury to Mrs. Ragla, who stood near the house watching Bryan. – Banner Sept. 17. Banner Oct. 3 - Several hundred people were at the CK&S depot when the afternoon train from Kalamazoo arrived. They came to see the officers bring W.O. Lowden back to this city. He was brought here from Carrington, N.D., by Deputy Sheriff William McKevitt. His drawn face evidenced the severe strain he had been under in his attempts to escape punishment for forgery. The Misses Effa Simpson, Bertha Rider and Marv McElwain and Miss Harriet Beadle will ® give one of the popular entertainments in the instrumental music, also recitations by Miss Beadle. – Banner Oct. 10. Tuesday evening a largely attended farewell reception was given by Dr. and Mrs. Sherman Fowler, who will soon move to Battle Creek. The Banner of Oct. 24 speaks of the reunion of the 4th Michigan Cavalry, which was held here on Thursday. Citizens opened their homes to the visitors and made the gathering one to be long- and pleasantly remembered. About five o’clock this morning, states the Banner of Oct. 31, a distinct earthquake shock was felt in this city. No damage was done, but dishes rattled and hanging lamps swayed, and there was a rumbling noise. The agitation for good roads is growing. Among those who are doing something about it is Hon. P.T. Colgrove. He interested farmers along the way to contribute work, and some help from businessmen here. As a result, there is a nice gravelled road to his farm. Mr. Colgrove gave liberally of his time and money, and his farm manager helped with team in hauling gravel. (Later, the Michigan Good Roads Association made him its president, and put him in charge of the successful campaign to have the state sell $50,000 worth of bonds, and use the proceeds to “pull Michigan Out of the Mud.” He and Good Roads Earle gave this state a fine start toward its present system of modern highways.) Attorney Wm. O. Lowden, says the Banner of Nov. 21, was tried in circuit court for forgery, and was convicted. Later, he was sentenced by Judge Smith to six years in Jackson. The city has added six artesian wells near the water works plant. The supply of clear, clean, wholesome water for all purposes now seems ample. The Banner of Nov. 28 states that a letter was received here the other day addressed to “Grandmother, Hastings, Mich.” It was postmarked at Colorado Springs, Colo. The postmaster and clerks were puzzled about the delivery. There was nothing on the envelope to give any idea as to the person who sent the missive. Someone told them that John Russ and family lived in Colorado Springs, so they tried “Grandma” Hitchcock (Mrs. William Hitchcock). It was a good guess, for it was her little granddaughter who wrote the letter and mailed it herself. The little girl thought everyone ought to know the nice person who is her grandmother. Here is the Banner’s market report, given in its issue of Dec. 5: Wheat 60 cents; corn 30 cents; oats 20 cents; butter 16 cents; eggs 18 to 20 cents; lard 8 cents; beans 75 cents to $1; potatoes 18 to 20 cents bushel; beef, live weight 3 cents per pound; dressed 5 cents to 6 cents per pound; pork, dressed 4 cents per pound; chickens, dressed 8 cents per pound. Tuesday night of last week two men robbed an old man named Jackson, who lived alone in his Maple Grove farm home. They took his Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads The 77564841 77565077 GET MORE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. Judge P.T. Colgrove was an advocate for good roads. He helped improve local byways in 1895 and later served as president of the Michigan Good Roads Association. purse, containing nearly $600 in bills, and left him bound, lying on the floor, with no covering to protect him from the cold. Fortunately, a friend called early the next morning, released Mr. Jackson and made him comfortable then reported the crime to Sheriff McKevitt and Undersheriff Philip Burgess. With no clues, the two officers began their work, and, a week later, arrested a Nashville man and another party from Battle Creek. They also accumulated evidence that established the guilt of the two men. A good job of detective work. Banner of Dec. 12, 1895. The Banner of Dec. 26 reports that the wedding of Mr. Frank Horton to Miss Edna Hall took place at the home of the bride on Christmas day. The same Banner reported that Levi M. Dewey, of Johnstown, that week paid his 41st year subscription to the Banner. He began with the first issue, May 1, 1856, and always paid a year in advance. Mrs. Harry Anderson, whose home is in the First Ward, fell on the slippery sidewalk Tuesday morning, causing a double fracture of her leg, one above and the other below the knee, also fracturing the hip joint. She works in the Wool Boot Factory, and had just started for that factory when she slipped and fell. Her injuries are painful and may keep her in bed for a long time. Mr. Anderson has been in such poor health that he is unable to work. So this accident will be a hardship to both of them. From the number of boys in their teens reported as being charged with serious offenses, it is evident that there was a youth problem in 1895. Of course my readers will realize that in such a review as this, I could mention only a few of the many happenings reported in the Banner during the year 1895. NOTICE The Barry County Board of Commissioners is seeking applications to serve on the following Boards/Commissions: Agricultural Preservation Board: Natural Resource Conservation representation (2 positions) Animal Control/Shelter Advisory Board: Citizen at Large (1 position), Kennel opertor preferred. Building Authority: (1 position) Solid Waste Oversight Committee: Health Association/Environmental Professional (1 position) Central Dispatch: Citizen at Large (1 position): Applicants cannot be affiliated with any organization already involved with Barry County Central Dispatch. Applicants must be a resident of Barry County. A letter of intent along with some background information and the willingness to commit to this position must be along with the application. Tax Allocation Board (1 citizen at large position) Zoning Board of Appeals (1 position, must not live in a city or village) Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services Board (3 positions; one may be a citizen at large, one must be a primary consumer, and one must be secondary consumer (family member of a consumer) Charlton Park Village and Museum Board (4 citizen at large positions) Applications may be obtained at the County Administration Office, 3rd floor of the Courthouse, 220 W. State St., Hastings; or www.barrycounty.org; and must be returned no later than 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 1, 2012. Contact 269-9451284 for more information. 77565025 January 12, 2012 COMBINED NOTICE: NOTICE OF INTENT TO REQUEST RELEASE OF FUNDS AND NOTICE OF FINDING NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT (FONSI) TO ALL INTERESTED AGENCIES, GROUPS AND PERSONS: Barry County 220 West State Street Hastings, Mi 49058 (269) 945-1245 These notices shall satisfy two separate but related procedural requirements for activities to be undertaken by BARRY COUNTY. NOTICE OF INTENT TO REQUEST RELEASE OF FUNDS On or about January 28, 2012, BARRY COUNTY will submit a request to Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) for the release of the following program funds: q CDBG under Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 q HOME (HOME Investment Partnership Act) under Title II of the CranstonGonzalez National Affordable Housing Act of 1990 q NSP under Title III of Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 q Other: Program funds will be used to undertake a project known as BARRY COUNTY HOME IMPROVEMENT for the purpose of assisting in the rehabilitation of approximately fifteen single-family, owner-occupied homes in Barry County. The assistance will be limited to families with low to moderate incomes (not exceeding 80 percent of median income for Barry County). The rehabilitation will bring these homes into compliance with HUD’S Housing Quality Standards, as well as addressing emergency local code items. Assistance to homeowners will be at a maximum 100% deferred loan, with most repayment due upon sale or transfer of title of the property. In addition, $20,000 will be used to assist Habitat in the acquisition of land for construction of two homes for residents with incomes not exceeding 50% of median income for Barry County. NOTICE OF FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT No serious environmental adverse impacts or hazards were identified in the course of the environmental review. Therefore, it has been determined that the project will have no significant impact on the human environment and an Environmental Impact Statement under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969 is not required. For a tiered review, additional environmental analyses will be addressed on project sites as they are identified, specifically: SHPO (State Historic Preservation) and Site Hazardous Materials (i.e. fuel oil tanks). Additional project information is contained in the Environmental Review Record (ERR) on file at the address above which may be examined or copied weekdays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. PUBLIC COMMENTS Any individual, group, or agency may submit written comments to BARRY COUNTY at the address listed above on or before January 27, 2012. All comments will be considered by BARRY COUNTY prior to requesting a request for release of funds from MSHDA. Comments should specify which Notice is being addressed. RELEASE OF FUNDS BARRY COUNTY certifies to MSHDA that BARRY COUNTY and Michael C. Brown, in his capacity as County Administrator and Certifying Officer, consent to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal Courts if an action is brought to enforce responsibilities in relation to the environmental review process and that these responsibilities have been satisfied. MSHDA’s approval of the certification satisfies its responsibilities under NEPA and related laws and authorities, and allows BARRY COUNTY to use Program funds. OBJECTIONS TO RELEASE OF FUNDS MSHDA will accept objections to the release of funds and certification for a period of fifteen days following the anticipated submission date only if they are based on one of the following: (a) the certification was not executed by the Certifying Officer; (b) the environmental review record indicates an omission of a required step, decision or finding required by HUD regulations at 24 CFR Part 58; (c) the grant recipient has committed funds or uncured costs not authorized by 24 CFR Part 58 before approval of a release of funds by MSHDA; or (d) another Federal agency acting pursuant to 40 CFR Part 1504 has submitted written finding that the project is unsatisfactory from the standpoint of environmental quality. Objections must be prepared and submitted in accordance with required procedures (24 CFR Part 58) and shall be addressed to Office of Community Development, MSHDA, 735 E. Michigan Avenue, Lansing, MI 48933, 517-355-4661. Objections to the release of funds on bases other than those stated above will not be considered by MSHDA. No objections received after February 13, 2012, will be considered by MSHDA. Michael C. Brown, County Administrator 77565086 �Page 10 — Thursday, January 12, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE PURSUANT TO MCL 600.3205a(4) NOTICE is hereby provided to John L. Buffinga, the borrowers and/or mortgagors (hereinafter "Borrower") regarding the property located at: 14266 S Jones Rd, Battle Creek, MI 49017-8727. The Borrower has the right to request a meeting with the mortgage holder or mortgage servicer. The agent designated by the Mortgage Servicer and/or Mortgage Holder to contact and that has authority to make agreements under MCL sections 600.3205b and 600.3205c is: Trott & Trott, P.C., 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200, Farmington Hills, MI 48334-2525 at (248) 593-1309 The Borrower may contact a housing counselor by visiting the Michigan State Housing Development Authority's website or by calling the Michigan State Housing Development Authority at http://www.michigan.gov/mshda or at (866) 946-7432. If the Borrower requests a meeting with the agent designated above by contacting an approved housing counselor within 14 days from January 6, 2012, foreclosure proceedings will not be commenced until 90 days after January 6, 2012. If the Borrower and the agent designated above reach an agreement to modify the mortgage loan, the mortgage will not be foreclosed if the Borrower abides by the terms of the agreement. The Borrower has the right to contact an attorney. The telephone number of the State Bar of Michigan's Lawyer Referral Service is (800) 9680738. THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. Date: January 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer and/or Mortgage Holder 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334-2525 File # 392761F01 (01-12) 77564997 NOTICE PURSUANT TO MCL 600.3205a(4) NOTICE is hereby provided to Danney Joel Ellard, the borrowers and/or mortgagors (hereinafter "Borrower") regarding the property located at: 1349 E Pifer Rd, Dowling, MI 49050-9704. The Borrower has the right to request a meeting with the mortgage holder or mortgage servicer. The agent designated by the Mortgage Servicer and/or Mortgage Holder to contact and that has authority to make agreements under MCL sections 600.3205b and 600.3205c is: Trott & Trott, P.C., 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200, Farmington Hills, MI 48334-2525 at (248) 593-1313 The Borrower may contact a housing counselor by visiting the Michigan State Housing Development Authority's website or by calling the Michigan State Housing Development Authority at http://www.michigan.gov/mshda or at (866) 946-7432. If the Borrower requests a meeting with the agent designated above by contacting an approved housing counselor within 14 days from January 9, 2012, foreclosure proceedings will not be commenced until 90 days after January 9, 2012. If the Borrower and the agent designated above reach an agreement to modify the mortgage loan, the mortgage will not be foreclosed if the Borrower abides by the terms of the agreement. The Borrower has the right to contact an attorney. The telephone number of the State Bar of Michigan's Lawyer Referral Service is (800) 9680738. THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. Date: January 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer and/or Mortgage Holder 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334-2525 File # 379423F02 (01-12) 77565066 NOTICE PURSUANT TO MCL 600.3205a(4) NOTICE is hereby provided to Eric Johnson and Mary Johnson, the borrowers and/or mortgagors (hereinafter "Borrower") regarding the property located at: 1252 Coville Rd, Woodland, MI 48897-9747. The Borrower has the right to request a meeting with the mortgage holder or mortgage servicer. The agent designated by the Mortgage Servicer and/or Mortgage Holder to contact and that has authority to make agreements under MCL sections 600.3205b and 600.3205c is: Trott & Trott, P.C., 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200, Farmington Hills, MI 48334-2525 at (248) 593-1302 The Borrower may contact a housing counselor by visiting the Michigan State Housing Development Authority's website or by calling the Michigan State Housing Development Authority at http://www.michigan.gov/mshda or at (866) 946-7432. If the Borrower requests a meeting with the agent designated above by contacting an approved housing counselor within 14 days from January 6, 2012, foreclosure proceedings will not be commenced until 90 days after January 6, 2012. If the Borrower and the agent designated above reach an agreement to modify the mortgage loan, the mortgage will not be foreclosed if the Borrower abides by the terms of the agreement. The Borrower has the right to contact an attorney. The telephone number of the State Bar of Michigan's Lawyer Referral Service is (800) 968-0738. THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. Date: January 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer and/or Mortgage Holder 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334-2525 File # 191965F04 (01-12) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Robert E. Thomas, Jr. and Pamela L. Thomas, Husband and Wife as Joint Tenants, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 19, 2005, and recorded on September 19, 2005 in instrument 1153031, and assigned by said Mortgagee to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eighteen Thousand Three Hundred Fifty-Nine and 17/100 Dollars ($118,359.17), including interest at 6.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on February 2, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 44 of the plat of melody acres, according to the recorded plat thereof as recorded in liber 5 of plats on page 21, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #354739F02 77564958 (01-05)(01-26) 77565048 VARNUM LLP Attorneys P.O. Box 352 Grand Rapids, Michigan 49501-0352 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE AND SALE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage (the "Mortgage") made by Dean D. Hunt and Amy S. Hunt, husband and wife, mortgagor, to Macatawa Bank, a Michigan banking corporation, having its principal offices at 10753 Macatawa Drive, Holland, Michigan 49424, mortgagee, dated August 2, 2007 and recorded August 15, 2007 at Instrument No. 20070815-0000940. Because of the default, the undersigned has elected to declare the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage immediately due and payable. At the date of this notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of One Hundred Fifty Six Thousand Sixty Six and 25/100 Dollars ($156,066.25). No suit or proceedings at law have been instituted to recover any part of the debt secured by the Mortgage. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay said amount with interest as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including attorney fees allowed by law, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the main entrance of the Courthouse at 220 West State Street in Hastings, Michigan, the place of holding the Circuit Court within Barry County, Michigan, on Thursday, February 2, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. local time. Pursuant to Section 3240(8) of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, as amended, (MCLA 600.3240(8); MSA 27A.3240(8)), the redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of the foreclosure sale, unless the premises are determined to be abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a; MSA 27A.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be thirty (30) days from the date of the sale. The premises covered by said mortgage is commonly known as 394 Riverwood Drive, and is situated in the Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, described as follows: Lot 42, Bryanwood Estates, Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats, Page 14. Dated: December 29, 2011 Macatawa Bank, a Michigan banking corporation, Mortgagee Varnum LLP Donald A. Snide, Esq. Attorneys for Mortgagee P.O. Box 352 Grand Rapids, Michigan 49501-0352 (616) 336-6000 77564757 #4825064_1.DOC Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Linda Anaya and David Anaya, wife and husband, original mortgagor(s), to ABN AMRO Mortgage Group, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 1, 2003, and recorded on July 8, 2003 in instrument 1108054, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Three Thousand Four Hundred FortySeven and 90/100 Dollars ($73,447.90), including interest at 5.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on January 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North 1/2 of the following described premises: Beginning 30 rods South of the Northeast corner of the Northwest quarter of Section 17, Town 2 North, Range 10 West, Orangeville Township, Barry County, Michigan, for place of beginning, thence West 80 rods, thence South 10 rods, thence East 80 rods, thence North to the place of beginning. Subject to restrictions, reservations, easements, covenants, oil, gas or mineral rights of record, if any. The redemption period shall be 12 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: December 22, 2011 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #234484F06 77562828 (12-22)(01-12) SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT 248-539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. INITIAL FORECLOSURE NOTICE AS REQUIRED BY MICHIGAN PUBLIC ACT 30 OF 2009. Notice is hereby provided to Brandon Vandermeer and Michelle Vandermeer, the borrowers and/or mortgagors (hereinafter “Borrower”) regarding the property known as 121 DEARBORN STREET, MIDDLEVILLE, MI 49333 that the mortgage is in default. The Borrower has the right to request a meeting with the mortgage holder or mortgage servicer through its designated agent, Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. (“Designated Agent”), 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300, Farmington Hills, Michigan 48335, 248-539-7400 (Tel), 248-539-7401 (Fax), email: designatedagent@sspclegal.com. Brandon Vandermeer and Michelle Vandermeer also has/have the right to contact the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (“MSHDA”) at its website www.michigan.gov/mshda or by calling MSHDA at (866) 9467432 (Tel). If Borrower(s) requests a meeting, no foreclosure proceeding will be commenced until the expiration of 90 days from the date Notice was mailed to the Borrower(s) pursuant to Section 3205(a) of HB 4454, Public Act 30 of 2009. If Designated Agent and Borrower(s) agree to modify the mortgage, the mortgage will not be foreclosed if the Borrower(s) abide by the terms of the modified mortgage. Borrower(s) have the right to contact an attorney or the State Bar of Michigan Lawyer Referral Service at (800) 968-0738 (Tel). Pub Date: January 12, 2012 SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48335 LBPS.001573 (01-12) 77565073 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Joseph W. Erwine and Jennifer Armintrout AKA Jennifer Armitrout husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated December 3, 2008, and recorded on December 15, 2008 in instrument 200812150011806, and assigned by said Mortgagee to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Four Thousand Seven Hundred One and 35/100 Dollars ($124,701.35), including interest at 7% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on February 9, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The West 60 Feet of Lot 12 and the East 40 Feet of Lot 13 of the Plat of Smith's Acres, according to the recorded Plat thereof in Liber 4 of Plats, Page 10. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #391358F01 77565006 (01-12)(02-02) NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. Notwithstanding, if the debt secured by this property was discharged in a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy proceeding, this notice is NOT an attempt to collect that debt. You are presently in default under your Mortgage Security Agreement, and the Mortgage Holder may be contemplating the commencement of foreclosure proceedings under the terms of that Agreement and Michigan law. You have no legal obligation to pay amounts due under the discharged note. A loan modification may not serve to revive that obligation. However, in the event you wish to explore options that may avert foreclosure, please contact our office at the number listed below. Attention: The following notice shall apply only if the property encumbered by the mortgage described below is claimed as a principal residence exempt from tax under section 7cc of the general property tax act, 1893 PA 206, MCL 211.7cc. Attention Mark Michael Boles and Melinda Dawn Boles, regarding the property at 14311 North Ave., Bellevue, MI 49021. The following notice does not apply if you have previously agreed to modify the mortgage loan under section 3205b. 3205a, 3205b and 3205c do not apply unless the terms of the modified mortgage loan entered into were complied with for one year after the date of the modification. You have the right to request a meeting with your mortgage holder or mortgage servicer. Potestivo & Associates, P.C. is the designee with authority to make agreements under MCL 600.3205b and MCL 600.3205c, and can be contacted at: 811 South Blvd., Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123. You may also contact a housing counselor. For more information, contact the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) by visiting www.michigan.gov/mshda or calling (866) 9467432. If you request a meeting with Potestivo & Associates, P.C. within 14 days after the notice required under MCL 600.3205a(1) is mailed, then foreclosure proceedings will not commence until at least 90 days after the date said notice was mailed. If an agreement to modify the mortgage loan is reached and you abide by the terms of the agreement, the mortgage will not be foreclosed. You have the right to contact an attorney and can obtain contact information through the State Bar of Michigan’s Lawyer Referral Service at (800) 968-0738. Dated: January 12, 2012. Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 information may be faxed to (248)267-3004, Attention: Loss Mitigation Our File 77565107 No: 12-55144 (01-12) NOTICE TO CREDITORS Trust In the matter of Donald W. Johnson, Trust dated June 25, 1999. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Donald Wayne Johnson, born August 14, 1923, who lived at 2450 Solomon Road, Middleville, Michigan died 11/8/2011 leaving a certain trust under the name of Donald W. Johnson, and dated June 25, 1999, wherein the decedent was the Settlor and Donald W. Johnson, Jr. was named as the trustee serving at the time of or as a result of the decedents death. Creditors of the decedent and of the trust are notified that all claims against the decedent or against the trust will be forever barred unless presented to Donald W. Johnson, Jr. the named trustee at 4707 W. State Rd., Middleville, Michigan within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 1/4/2012 Robert L. Byington 222 West Apple Street, P.O. Box 248 Hastings, Michigan 49058 269-945-9557 Donald W. Johnson, Jr. 4707 W. State Road Middleville, Michigan 49333 77564075 THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Wade Kriekaard and Christina Kriekaard, husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Arbor Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated March 9, 2007 and recorded March 16, 2007 in Instrument Number 1177568, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by CitiMortgage, Inc. by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Three Hundred Twenty-Nine Thousand Five Hundred Seventeen and 40/100 Dollars ($329,517.40) including interest at 9.65% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on FEBRUARY 9, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Unit 8 of Romeyn Woods Condominium, a Condominium according to the Master Deed recorded in Liber 679 on Page 4 , and amendments thereto, and designated as Barry County Condominium Subdivision Plan Number 9, together with rights in general common elements and limited common elements as set forth in said Master Deed and as described in Act 59 of Public Acts of 1978, as amended. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: January 12, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 77565096 241.6275 (01-12)(02-02) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTENTION PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain Mortgage made between JACK L. REFFETT, a single man, whose address is 120 Delaware, Westville, Illinois 61883, as Mortgagor, and ICNB MORTGAGE COMPANY, L.L.C., a Michigan limited liability company, whose address is 302 West Main Street, Ionia, Michigan 48846, as Mortgagee, dated January 8, 2007, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on January 12, 2007, in Document No. 1174919, upon which Mortgage is claimed to be due at the date of this notice the sum of SEVENTYSIX THOUSAND SEVEN HUNDRED FORTY-TWO 12/100 ($76,742.12) DOLLARS, and no suit or proceedings at law or equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said Mortgage, or any part thereof; NOW, THEREFORE, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said Mortgage, and pursuant to the statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on February 16, 2012, at 1:00 p.m., said Mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction to the Barry County Courthouse, 220 West State Street, Hastings, County of Barry, Michigan (that being the building where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held) of the premises described in said Mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due of said Mortgage, with interest thereon at 6.5% per annum, and all legal costs, expenses and charges, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sums which may be paid by the undersigned to protect its interest in the premises, which said premises are described as follows: Land situated in the City of Hastings, County of Barry and State of Michigan, to-wit: The South 1/2 of Lots 19 and 20, Block 13, of Kenfield’s 2nd Addition to the City of Hastings, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats on Page 37, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be thirty (30) days from the date of such sale. ICNB MORTGAGE COMPANY, L.L.C. Mortgagee Dated this 12th day of January, 2012. TIMOTHY L. CURTISS, Esq. Braun Kendrick Finkbeiner P.L.C. 304 East Broadway, Suite 206 Mt. Pleasant, Michigan 48858 989/775-7404 77565090 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate Estate of Helen E. Near, Deceased. Date of birth: 11/21/1923. TO ALL CREDITORS: of Helen E. Near, individually or as the Trustee of the Helen E. Near Trust uad December 3, 1999. NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Helen E. Near, Deceased, who lived at 690 W. Main St., Middleville, MI 49333 died 12/26/2011. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Mary Weaver, Successor Trustee, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at attorney for Successor Trustee and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 1/9/2012 James K. Schepers P42465 6617 Crossings Drive, SE Grand Rapids, MI 49508-7358 (616) 554-2900 Mary Weaver, Successor Trustee 12864 Sunrise Ct. Wayland, MI 49348-9218 (269) 792-0499 77565079 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Andrew D. Roush and Kristina E. Roush, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Sand Ridge Bank, Mortgagee, dated March 29, 2005, and recorded on April 4, 2005 in instrument 1144269, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Seven Thousand Eight Hundred Forty-Four and 74/100 Dollars ($87,844.74), including interest at 5.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on January 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 29, Orsemus A. Philips addition, to the Village of Nashville, according to the recorded Plat therof as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats on Page 19, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: December 22, 2011 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #389797F01 77562777 (12-22)(01-12) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Joseph A Lively, a married man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registrations Systems, Inc., as nominee for Centennial Mortgage and Funding, Inc. its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated December 14, 2007, and recorded on December 20, 2007 in instrument 20071220-0005400, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eighty Thousand Four Hundred Sixty-Seven and 66/100 Dollars ($180,467.66), including interest at 5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on January 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel 1: A parcel of land in the Southeast 1/4 of Section 18, Town 1 North, Range 9 West, described as: beginning at a point on the East and West 1/4 Line of said Section 18, which lies 1955 feet due West of the East 1/4 post of said Section 18, Thence South 225 feet; thence West 175 feet; thence North 225 feet; thence 175 feet to the place of beginning. Parcel 2: Commencing at a point on the East and West 1/4 line of Section 18, Town 1 North, Range 9 West, which lies 1825 feet West of the East 1/4 post of said Section 18; thence South at right angels to said East and West 1/4 line 225 feet; thence West parallel with said East and West 1/4 line 130 feet; thence North 225 feet to said East and West 1/4; thence East 130 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: December 22, 2011 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #379217F01 77562771 (12-22)(01-12) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 12, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by RICHARD LINSEMAN, A MARRIED MAN and BARBARA LINSEMAN, A MARRIED WOMAN, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated July 21, 2005, and recorded on August 9, 2005, in Document No. 1150758, and assigned by said mortgagee to FLAGSTAR BANK, FSB, as assigned,Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Eight Thousand Six Hundred Dollars and Forty-Seven Cents ($98,600.47), including interest at 6.000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on February 9, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: COMMENCING AT THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF SECTION 32, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST; THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES 37 MINUTES 24 SECONDS WEST, 1912.69 FEET ALONG THE SOUTH LINE OF SAID SECTION 32 TO THE CENTERLINE OF LINDSEY ROAD AS NOW LOCATED; THENCE NORTH 07 DEGREES 55 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST 1441.82 FEET ALONG SAID CENTERLINE OF LINDSEY ROAD TO THE CENTERLINE OF BOULTER ROAD AS NOW LOCATED AND THE POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE NORTH 62 DEGREES 00 MINUTES EAST 281.09 FEET ALONG SAID CENTERLINE OF BOULTER ROAD; THENCE SOUTH 07 DEGREES 55 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST 165.00 FEET PARALLEL WITH SAID CENTERLINE OF LINDSEY ROAD; THENCE SOUTH 62 DEGREES 00 MINUTES WEST 281.09 FEET PARALLEL WITH SAID CENTERLINE OF BOULTER ROAD TO SAID CENTERLINE OF LINDSEY ROAD; THENCE NORTH 07 DEGREES 55 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST 165.00 FEET ALONG SAID CENTERLINE OF LINDSEY ROAD TO POINT OF BEGINNING. RESERVING THE NORTHERLY 33.0 FEET AND THE WESTERLY 33.0 FEET FOR HIGHWAY PURPOSES. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. FLAGSTAR BANK, FSB Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 FSB.004345 (01-12)(02-02) 77565109 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by BRIAN M. SCHAEFER and SARA M. SCHAEFER, husband and wife (collectively, "Mortgagor"), to GREENSTONE FARM CREDIT SERVICES, FLCA, a federally chartered corporation, having an office at 3515 West Road, East Lansing, Michigan 48823 (the "Mortgagee"), dated March 29, 2006, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on March 30, 2006, as Instrument No. 1161954, as amended by an affidavit of correction dated March 1, 2007, recorded March 30, 2007, as Instrument No. 1178100, Barry County Records (the "Mortgage"). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgage Electronic Registration System (MERS) is not the sole foreclosing party. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Forty Two Thousand Seven Hundred Twenty Six and 01/100 Dollars ($42,726.01). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public venue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 19th day of January, 2012, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the Township of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: parcel of land in the Northwest 1/4 of Section 13, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, described as: Beginning at the North 1/4 corner of said Section 13; thence South 00°00'00" West, 544.50 feet along the North and South 1/4 line of said Section 13; thence North 89°24'35" West, 400.00 feet parallel with the North line of said Northwest 1/4 of Section 13; thence North 00°00'00" East, 544.50 feet to said North Section line; thence South 89°24'35" East, 400.00 feet along said Section line to the point of beginning. Subject to an easement for public highway purposes over the Northerly 33 feet thereof for East State Road. Together with all fixtures, tenements, hereditaments, and appurtenances belonging or in any way appertaining to the premises. Commonly known as: 4406 E. State Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058 P.P. #08-06-013-010-10 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be one (1) year from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. Dated: December 22, 2011 G R E E N S T O N E FARM CREDIT SERVICES, FLCA Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2489 (616) 752-2000 77562847 5724104-1 THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Leslie Depriester, a single woman, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Wilmington Finance, Inc., Mortgagee, dated November 16, 2006 and recorded November 29, 2006 in Instrument Number 1173241, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by The Bank of New York Mellon, as Trustee for CIT Mortgage Loan Trust 2007-1 by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Nine Thousand Five Hundred Four and 34/100 Dollars ($89,504.34) including interest at 4% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on JANUARY 26, 2012. Said premises are located in the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing 20 rods South of the Southwest corner of Lot 1331, City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan; thence East 10 rods; thence South 4 rods; thence West 10 rods; thence North 4 rods to beginning. City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, being in the Northeast corner of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 19, Town 3 North, Range 8 West. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: December 29, 2011 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 676.0953 77564771 (12-29)(01-19) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by BRIAN M. SCHAEFER and SARA M. SCHAEFER, husband and wife (collectively, "Mortgagor"), to GREENSTONE FARM CREDIT SERVICES, FLCA, a federally chartered corporation, having an office at 3515 West Road, East Lansing, Michigan 48823 (the "Mortgagee"), dated March 29, 2006, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on March 30, 2006, as Instrument No. 1161954, as amended by an affidavit of correction dated March 1, 2007, recorded March 30, 2007, as Instrument No. 1178100, Barry County Records (the "Mortgage"). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgage Electronic Registration System (MERS) is not the sole foreclosing party. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Forty Four Thousand Thirty Six and 35/100 Dollars ($44,036.35). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public venue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 9th day of February, 2012, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the Township of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: A parcel of land in the Northwest 1/4 of Section 13, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, described as: Beginning at the North 1/4 corner of said Section 13; thence South 00°00'00" West, 544.50 feet along the North and South 1/4 line of said Section 13; thence North 89°24'35" West, 400.00 feet parallel with the North line of said Northwest 1/4 of Section 13; thence North 00°00'00" East, 544.50 feet to said North Section line; thence South 89°24'35" East, 400.00 feet along said Section line to the point of beginning. Subject to an easement for public highway purposes over the Northerly 33 feet thereof for East State Road. Together with all fixtures, tenements, hereditaments, and appurtenances belonging or in any way appertaining to the premises. Commonly known as: 4406 E. State Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058 P.P. #08-06-013-010-10 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. Dated: January 12, 2012 GREENSTONE FARM CREDIT SERVICES, FLCA Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2489 (616) 752-2000 5724104-1 77565061 STATE OF MICHIGAN JUDICIAL CIRCUIT - FAMILY DIVISION BARRY COUNTY PUBLICATION OF HEARING CASE NO. 1008169-NA PETITION NO. 10007889 TO: Carmen Newland, whose address to unknown and whose interest in the matter may be barred or affected by the following: IN THE MATTER OF: Michael Keith Moore. A hearing regarding Termination of Parental Rights will be conducted by the court on Friday, January 27, 2012 at 8:30 am EST in Barry County Trial Court, Family Division, 206 W. Court St., 3rd Floor, Hastings, MI 49058 before Honorable William M. Doherty. IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED that Carmen Newland personally appear before the court at the time and place stated above. This hearing may result in the termination of 77564989 Carmen Newland’s parental rights. THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Wyatt Holes, a single man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated June 22, 2007 and recorded July 2, 2007 in Instrument Number 1182465, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Bank of America, N.A., Successor by Merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP FKA Countrywide Home Loans Servicing LP by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety Thousand Eight Hundred Ninety-Eight and 70/100 Dollars ($90,898.70) including interest at 7.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on JANUARY 19, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Village of Freeport, County of Barry Lot 8, Block 2, Village of Freeport, according to the recorded plat thereof in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 22. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: December 22, 2011 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 708.0481 77562833 (12-22)(01-12) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Jeffrey C. Milan and Jodie L. Milan Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 27, 2007, and recorded on May 3, 2007 in instrument 1180066, in Barry county records, Michigan, and assigned by said Mortgagee to PNMAC Mortgage Co., LLC as assignee, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Sixty-Six Thousand Nine Hundred Fifty-Five and 07/100 Dollars ($266,955.07), including interest at 8.9% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on February 9, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel C: A parcel of land located in the Northwest 1/4 of Section 35, Town 1 North, Range 10 West, and being more particularly described as follows: Commencing at the North 1/4 post of Section 35, Town 1 North, Range 10 West; thence South 00 degrees 50 minutes 29 seconds West along the North and South 1/4 line of said section 320.78 feet for the point of beginning of the parcel hereinafter described; thence continuing South 00 degrees 50 minutes 29 seconds West along the North and South 1/4 line of said section 333.94 feet; thence North 89 degrees 09 minutes 03 seconds West parallel with the South line of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of said Section 1317.49 feet; thence North 00 degrees 54 minutes 49 seconds East along the West line of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of said section (formerly referred to as "Norris Road") 333.94 feet; thence South 89 degrees 09 minutes 03 seconds East parallel with said South line 1317.07 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #360092F01 (01-12)(02-02) 77565055 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Daniel Dykstra and Barbara Dykstra, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to ABN AMRO Mortgage Group, Inc., Mortgagee, dated November 14, 2003, and recorded on April 23, 2004 in instrument 1126298, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Nine Thousand Three Hundred Twenty-Nine and 17/100 Dollars ($109,329.17), including interest at 3% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on January 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 19, Hidden Hollow No. 1, as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats, Page 19. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: December 22, 2011 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #165387F03 77562765 (12-22)(01-12) FORECLOSURE NOTICE THIS IS A N ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE Default has occurred in a Mortgage made on October 28, 2008 by Madison D. Howell and Linda L. Howell, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, to Hastings City Bank, a Michigan banking corporation, as Mortgagee. The Mortgage was recorded on November 3, 2008 in the Office ofthe Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan in Instrument No. 20081103-0010644. At the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due and unpaid on the Mortgage the sum of One Hundred Thirty Five Thousand Four Hundred Thirty Six and 33/100 Dollars ($135,436.33), including interest at 2.5% per annum. No suit or proceedings have been instituted to recover any part of the debt secured by the Mortgage, and the power of sale contained in the Mortgage has become operative by reason of such default. On Thursday, January 19, 2012, at one o'clock in the afternoon at the east steps ofthe Barry County Courthouse, 220 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan, which is the place for holding mortgage sales for Barry County, Michigan, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder, at public sale, for the purpose of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid upon the Mortgage, together with the legal costs and charges of sale, including attorneys' fees allowed by law, the property located in the Township of Rutland, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and described in the Mortgage as follows: Parcel 1: Beginning at a point on the East line of Section 15, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, Rutland Township, Barry County, Michigan distant South 00 degrees 24 minutes 29 seconds East 199.0 feet from the Northeast corner of said section thence south 00 degrees 24 minutes 29 second East 513.83 feet along said East line, thence North 86 degrees 04 minutes 29 seconds West 220.88 feet, thence North 03 degrees 48 minutes 51 seconds East 17.00 feet, thence North 01 degrees 21 minutes 31 seconds West 482.24 feet; thence South 89 degrees 54 minutes 26 seconds East 227.01 feet to the point of beginning. Together with and subject to a private easement for ingress, egress and public utilities purposes appurtenant thereto for Madilin Lane, subject to a private easement for ingress, egress and public utilities purposes appurtenant thereto for Howell Trail. Howell Trail Easement: A private easement for ingress, egress and public utilities purposes, 66 feet in width, 33 feet each side of a centerline described as: Beginning at a point on the North line of Section 15, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, Rutland Township, Barry County, Michigan, distant North 89 degrees 54 minutes 26 seconds West, 1047.01 feet from the Northeast corner of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 18 minutes 14 second East, 391.89 feet along said centerline, thence South 24 degrees 24 minutes 29 seconds east 70.21 feet along said centerline; thence South 00 degrees 18 minutes 14 seconds East 204.22 feet to the end of said centerline. Madilin Lane Easement: A private easement for ingress, egress and public utilities purposes, 66 feet in width, 33 feet each side of a centerline described as Commencing at the Northeast corner of Section 15, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, Rutland Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence North 89 degrees 54 minutes 26 seconds West 1047.01 feet along the North line of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 18 minutes 14 seconds East 391.89 feet along the centerline of Howell Trail; thence South 24 degrees 24 minutes 29 seconds East 70.21 feet along said centerline; thence South 00 degrees 18 minutes 14 seconds East 171.22 feet along said centerline to the point of beginning of the centerline of Madilin Trail; thence South 89 degrees 54 minutes 26 seconds East 384.45 feet along said centerline; thence South 65 degrees 14 minutes 47 seconds East 122.97 feet along said centerline; thence South 86 degrees 11 minutes 09 seconds East 304.27 feet along said centerline; thence North 03 degrees 48 minutes 51 seconds East 17.00 feet to the end of said centerline and a point hereinafter referred to as reference point "A". Also a circular extension of said easement, a radius of 50 feet centered on aforementioned reference point "A". Parcel 2: Beginning at a point on the East line of Section 15 Town 3 North, Range 9 West, Rutland Township, Barry County, Michigan, distant South 00 degrees 24 minutes 29 seconds East 712.83 feet from the Northeast corner of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 24 minutes 29 seconds East 605.71 feet along said East line; thence North 50 degrees 34 minutes 10 seconds West, 1038.84 feet; thence North 89 degrees 54 minutes 26 seconds West 221.83 feet; thence North 00 degrees 18 minutes 14 seconds West 204.22 feet along the centerline of Howell Lane; thence North 24 degrees 24 minutes 29 seconds West 70.21 feet along said Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Steven M. Onderlinde, Cindy K. Onderlinde, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to First Indiana Bank, N.A., Mortgagee, dated June 25, 2002, and recorded on July 9, 2002 in instrument 1083452, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Five Thousand Five Hundred Ninety-Eight and 98/100 Dollars ($95,598.98), including interest at 4.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on February 2, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Delton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 39 of Lakewood Estates, according to the recorded Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 4 of Plats, Page 19. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #393539F01 77564963 (01-05)(01-26) centerline; thence North 00 degrees 18 minutes 14 seconds West 154.27 feet along said centerline; thence South 89 degrees 54 minutes 26 seconds East 241.42 feet; thence North 00 degrees 24 minutes 29 seconds West 38.62 feet; thence South 89 degrees 54 minutes 26 seconds East 78.49 feet; thence South 00 degrees 24 minutes 29 seconds East 428.01 feet to the centerline of Madilin Lane; thence South 89 degrees 54 minutes 26 seconds East 92.50 feet; along said centerline; thence South 65 degrees 14 minutes 47 seconds East 122.97 feet along said centerline; thence South 86 degrees 11 minutes 09 seconds East, 304.27 feet along said centerline; thence South 86 degrees 04 minutes 29 seconds East 220.88 feet to the point of beginning. Together with and subject to a private easement for ingress egress and public utilities purposes appurtenant thereto for Madilin Lane and for Howell Trail. Howell Trail Easement: A private easement for ingress, egress and public utilities purposes, 66 feet in width, 33 feet each side of a centerline described as: Beginning at a point on the North line of Section 15, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, Rutland Township, Barry County, Michigan, distant North 89 degrees 54 minutes 26 seconds West, 1047.01 feet from the Northeast corner of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 18 minutes 14 second East, 391.89 feet along said centerline, thence South 24 degrees 24 minutes 29 seconds east 70.21 feet along said centerline; thence South 00 degrees 18 minutes 14 seconds East 204.22 feet to the end of said centerline. Madilin Lane Easement: A private easement for ingress, egress and public utilities purposes, 66 feet in width, 33 feet each side of a centerline described as Commencing at the Northeast corner of Section 15, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, Rutland Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence North 89 degrees 54 minutes 26 seconds West 1047.01 feet along the North line of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 18 minutes 14 seconds East 391.89 feet along the centerline of Howell Trail; thence South 24 degrees 24 minutes 29 seconds East 70.21 feet along said centerline; thence South 00 degrees 18 minutes 14 seconds East 171.22 feet along said centerline to the point of beginning of the centerline of Madilin Trail; thence South 89 degrees 54 minutes 26 seconds East 384.45 feet along said centerline; thence South 65 degrees 14 minutes 47 seconds East 122.97 feet along said centerline; thence South 86 degrees 11 minutes 09 seconds East 304.27 feet along said centerline; thence North 03 degrees 48 minutes 51 seconds East 17.00 feet to the end of said centerline and a point hereinafter referred to as reference point "A". Also a circular extension of said easement, a radius of 50 feet centered on aforementioned reference point "A". Parcel 3: Commencing at the North VA post of Section 14, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, Rutland Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence North 88 degrees 47 minutes 39 seconds West 425.00 feet along the North line of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 29 minutes 34 seconds West 507.59 feet to the point of beginning; thence South 88 degrees 47 minutes 39 seconds East 24.49 feet to the centerline of a gravel driveway; thence South 29 degrees 45 minutes 48 seconds West 103.85 feet along said centerline; thence continuing Southwesterly along said centerline 159.50 feet along the arc of a curve to the right the radius of which is 924.56 feet and the chord of which bears South 34 degrees 42 minutes 31 seconds West 159.40 feet; thence continuing along said centerline of a gravel driveway South 39 degrees 39 minutes 14 seconds West 183.23 feet to the centerline of Highway M-37; thence North 38 degrees 01 minutes 41 seconds West 647.48 feet along said centerline of Highway M-37; thence North 18 degrees 57 minutes 47 seconds East 59.65 feet to the northeasterly right of way line of Highway M-37; thence South 71 degrees 39 minutes 23 seconds East 647.13 feet to the point of beginning. Together with and subject to an easement of undetermined width to be used in common with others over said gravel driveway. The redemption period shall be one year from the date of the sale unless the property is deemed abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a in which case the redemption period shall be thirty days after the foreclosure sale or when the time to provide the notice required by subdivision MCL 600.324 la(c) expires, whichever is later. MILLER JOHNSON Attorneys for Hastings City Bank Isl Rachel J. Foster Dated: December 12, 2011 By: Rachel J. Foster 303 North Rose Street, Suite 600 Kalamazoo, Michigan 49007 269-226-2982 KZ_DOCS 272179vl 36177.098 77562717 �Page 12 — Thursday, January 12, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Tony Waldren and Teresa Waldren, Husband and Wife to Ameriquest Mortgage Company, Mortgagee, dated February 1, 2005 and recorded February 17, 2005 in Instrument # 1141580 and modified by Agreement dated February 1, 2005 and recorded October 12, 2006 in Instrument # 1171313 Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage was assigned to: Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for ABFC 2005-AQ1 Trust, Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2005-AQ1, by assignment dated December 1, 2011 and recorded on December 9, 2011 in Instrument # 201112090011604 Barry County Records on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fourteen Thousand Seventy-Four Dollars and Ten Cents ($114,074.10) including interest 2% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on January 19, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land in the West one-seventh of the Southeast onequarter of Section 16, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, described as commencing at the South one-quarter post of the Southeast one-quarter, thence North 2 rods thence West 2 rods for place of beginning, thence North 10 rods, thence West 11 rods, thence South 10 rods, thence East 8 rods to place of beginning. Commonly known as 1258 Woodruff Rd, Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later. Dated: 12/22/2011 Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for ABFC 2005-AQ1 Trust, Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2005-AQ1, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File 77562866 No: 11-49457 (12-22)(01-12) THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Daniel A. Rademacher, a married man, and Michelle L. Rademacher, his wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns., Mortgagee, dated September 23, 2005 and recorded October 3, 2005 in Instrument Number 1153753, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Bank of America, N.A., as successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. FKA Countrywide Home Loans Servicing L.P by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Forty-Two Thousand One Hundred Sixty-Two and 48/100 Dollars ($242,162.48) including interest at 6.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on FEBRUARY 2, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the Township of Irving, County of Barry, State of Michigan: The Northwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4, Section 1, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, Excepting therefrom the North 965 Also Except: Commencing at the Southwest corner of Section 1, Town 4 North, Range 9 West; thence North 00 degrees 28 minutes 41 seconds East, 1319.95 feet along the West line of said Section 1; thence South 89 degrees 37 minutes 50 seconds East, 467.00 feet along the North line of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of said Section 1 to the point of beginning; thence North 79 degrees 46 minutes 56 seconds East, 115.13 feet, thence North 00 degrees 07 minutes 50 seconds West, 26.00 feet; thence North 89 degrees 52 mintues 09 seconds, East, 729.23 feet; thence South 00 degrees 31 minutes 24 seconds West, 53.52 feet along the East line of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of said Section 1; Thence North 89 degrees 37 minutes 50 seconds West, 842.00 feet along the North line of the Southwest 1/4 of the southwest 1/4 of said section 1 to the point of beginning The redemption period shall be 12 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: January 5, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 617.9998 77564968 (01-05)(01-26) THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by James F Rix, husband and, and Karen K Rix, wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for USAA Federal Savings Bank its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated November 17, 2006 and recorded November 27, 2006 in Instrument Number 1173160, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by GMAC Mortgage, LLC by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eighty-Seven Thousand Four Hundred Thirty-Four and 59/100 Dollars ($187,434.59) including interest at 6.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on JANUARY 26, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land located in the Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, State of Michigan, and described as follows: Unit 8 of Bay Meadow Condominium, a condominium according to the Master Deed recorded in document Number 1052228, and amendments thereto, if any, in Barry County Register of Deeds and designated as Condominium Subdivision Plan Number 19. Together with rights in the limited common elements and general common elements, as set forth in said Master Deed and described in Act 59 of The Public Acts of Michigan of 1978, as amended. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: December 29, 2011 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 703.1158 77564766 (12-29)(01-19) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. THIS IS AN OPPORTUNITY TO SAVE YOUR HOME To: Gary McMillian and Darla McMillian 632 West Marshall Street Hastings, MI 49058 County Barry State law requires that you receive the following notice: You have the right to request a meeting with your mortgage holder or mortgage servicer. The person to contact and that has the authority to make agreements for a loan modification with you is: Orlans Associates, P.C Loss Mitigation Department, P.O. Box 5041, Troy, MI 48007-5041, (248) 502-1331. You may contact a housing counselor by visiting the Michigan State Housing Development Authority ("MSHDA") website or by calling MSHDA. The website address and telephone number of MSHDA is: (www.mshda.info/counseling_search/), telephone (517) 373-8370, TTY# 1-800-382-4568. If you request a meeting with the servicer's designate within 14 days after the Notice required under MCL 600.3205a(1) is mailed, then foreclosure proceedings will not start until 90 days after the date the Notice was mailed to you. If you and the servicer's Designate reach an agreement to modify the mortgage loan, the mortgage will not be foreclosed if you abide by the terms of the agreement. You have the right to contact an attorney. You may contact attorney of your choice. If you do not have an attorney, the telephone number for the Michigan State Bar Association's Lawyer Referral Service is 1-800-968-0738. Dated: January 12, 2012 Orlans Associates P.C Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File Number: 200.8914 77565105 (01-12) SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE The Mortgage described below is in default: Mortgage (the “Mortgage”) made by Joseph E. Dempsey and Margaret M. Dempsey, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, to United Bank Mortgage Corporation, a Michigan banking corporation, with its address at 900 East Paris Avenue SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49546, as Mortgagee, dated August 30, 2005 and recorded on September 7, 2005, Instrument No.: 1152315, Barry County Records, Barry County, Michigan. The balance owing on the Mortgage is $92,952.34 at the time of this Notice. The Mortgage contains a power of sale and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage, or any part of the Mortgage. TAKE NOTICE that on January 26, 2012, at 1:00 p.m., local time, or any adjourned date thereafter, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, (which is the building where the Circuit Court for Barry County is held). The Mortgagee will apply the sale proceeds to the debt secured by the Mortgage as stated above, plus interest on the amount due at the rate of 4.5% per annum; all legal costs and expenses, including attorneys fees allowed by law; and also any amount paid by the Mortgagee to protect its interest in the property. The property to be sold at foreclosure is all of that real estate situated in the County of Barry, State of Michigan, described as: COMMENCING AT THE CENTER QUARTER POST OF SECTION 18, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, HOPE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN; THENCE SOUTH 660 FEET ALONG THE NORTH-SOUTH QUARTER LINE OF SECTION 18; THENCE EAST 250 FEET PARALLEL WITH THE EAST-WEST QUARTER LINE OF SECTION 18, FOR THE TRUE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE CONTINUING EAST 250 FEET ALONG SAME COURSE; THENCE NORTH 760 FEET MORE OR LESS PARALLEL WITH SAID NORTH-SOUTH QUARTER LINE, TO THE CENTERLINE OF KELLER ROAD; THENCE WESTERLY 260 FEET MORE OR LESS ALONG SAID CENTERLINE; THENCE SOUTH 685 FEET MORE OR LESS, PARALLEL WITH SAID NORTH-SOUTH QUARTER LINE TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. Tax Identification Number: 08-07-018-007-12 The redemption period shall be one (1) year from the date of sale pursuant to MCLA 600.3240(12), unless deemed abandoned and then thirty (30) days pursuant to MCLA 600.3240(11). December 19, 2011 UNITED BANK MORTGAGE CORPORATION, Mortgagee PLUNKETT COONEY KELLI L. BAKER (P49960) Attorney for Mortgagee 333 Bridge Street NW, Suite 530 Grand Rapids, Michigan 49504 (616) 752-4624 (12-22)(01-19) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Mark R Nelson and Amy J Nelson, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated February 10, 2004, and recorded on February 13, 2004 in instrument 1122208, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Central Mortgage Company as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Seven Thousand Seventy-Nine and 26/100 Dollars ($87,079.26), including interest at 3.625% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on February 9, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Woodland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at a point 96 feet 8 inches West of the Northeast corner of Section 21, Town 4 North, Range 7 West, for the place of beginning; thence running South 58 feet 9 inches; thence East 7 feet 8 inches; thence running North 1 foot; thence running East 11 feet; thence running South 10 and 1/2 Rods; thence West 9 and 1/2 feet ; thence South 4 Rods and 8 and 1/2 feet; thence West 7 Rods and 11 feet; thence North 18 Rods and 8 and 1/2 feet; thence East 7 Rods and 2 feet and 4 inches to the place of beginning. Except a parcel of land in the Northeast 1/4 of Section 21, Town 4 North, Range 7 West, described as: Commencing 96 feet 8 inches West of the Northeast corner of Section 21; thence South 58 feet 9 inches; thence East 7 feet 8 inches thence North 1 foot; thence East 11 feet; thence South 141 feet 1 inch for the place of beginning; thence South 32 feet 2 inch; thence West 9 feet 6 inches; thence South 74 feet 6 inches; thence West 126 feet 6 inches; thence North 106 feet 8 inches; thence East 136 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #355709F02 (01-12)(02-02) 77565068 GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Kelly H. Howard and Pamela J. Howard, husband and wife, to Fifth Third Mortgage Company, Mortgagee, dated October 4, 2001 and recorded October 8, 2001 in Instrument Number 1067730, Barry County Records, Michigan. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ninety-Six Thousand Nine Hundred Nine and 44/100 Dollars ($196,909.44) including interest at 6.625% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on FEBRUARY 9, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the Township of Barry, Barry County, State of Michigan, described as follows: Beginning at the Southwest corner of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 17, Town 1 North, Range 9 West, Barry Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence East 25 rods; thence North 32 rods; thence West 25 rods; thence South 32 rods to the beginning, except one square acre in the Southeast corner. The redemption period shall be 12 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: January 12, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 200.8904 (01-12)(02-02) 77565081 THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Vincent J. Ramirez and Rhea R. Ramirez, husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated May 28, 2003 and recorded June 13, 2003 in Instrument Number 1106422, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP FKA Countrywide Home Loans Servicing LP by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Eight Thousand Two Hundred Sixty-Eight and 7/100 Dollars ($208,268.07) including interest at 5.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on JANUARY 19, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the Township of Johnstown, in the County of Barry, State of Michigan A parcel of land in the Northwest 1/4 of Section 30, Town 1 North, Range 8 West, Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, described as follows: Commencing at the Northwest corner of Section 30, Town 1 North, Range 8 West, Johnstown Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence South 00 degrees 27 minutes 09 seconds East, along the West line of said Section 30, a distance of 460.24 feet; thence North 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East, along the South line of West Beach Drive as shown on the plat of "West Beach" and recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, on Page 67, in the Office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, a distance of 700.00 feet to the true point of beginning; thence continuing North 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East, along said South line of West Beach Drive, 605.05 feet; thence South 55 degrees 50 minutes 00 seconds East, along said South line of West Beach Drive 223.88 feet to the intersection of said South line of West Beach Drive with the West line of Eleanor Avenue as shown on said plat of "West Beach", thence South 34 degrees 10 minutes 00 seconds West, along said West line of Eleanor Avenue 243.27 feet to the North line of the South 418.00 feet of the North 52 acres (so called) off the North side of the Northwest fractional 1/4; thence North 87 degrees 50 minutes 37 seconds West, along said North line, 654.14 feet; thence North 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West, 302.40 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 12 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: December 22, 2011 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 708.0514 77562842 (12-22)(01-12) NOTICE The minutes of the meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners held January 10, 2012, are available in the County Clerk’s Office at 220 W. State St., Hastings, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or www.barrycounty.org. 77565006 Help someone during day of service by Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Monday, Jan. 16 is Martin Luther King, Jr. Day — a national holiday. To some, the day means more than an observance of the birthday of the civil rights leader. It is also a day to be of service to others. The MLK Day of Service is a part of United We Serve, the president’s national call to service initiative. It calls for Americans from all walks of life to work together to provide solutions to our most pressing national problems. A great way to be of service to others is to help someone you know who may need assistance applying for Social Security, Medicare or Extra Help with Medicare prescription drug costs. Each of these is easy to do online at www.socialsecurity.gov. Some people who need these benefits may not be comfortable with computers or may not even know applying online is an option. Now it is easier than ever to apply for such benefits from the convenience of a home computer. For example, it’s easy to apply for retirement benefits at www.socialsecurity.gov/applyonline. It can take as little as 15 minutes from start to finish, and once the application is electronically submitted, in most cases, there is nothing more to do. It’s even easier to apply for Medicare, for people who do not plan to begin their Social Security retirement payments yet but who do want Medicare coverage. The application takes about 10 minutes and can be found at www.socialsecurity.gov/medicareonly. People who already have Medicare coverage but who have trouble meeting prescription drug costs may apply for Extra Help online at www.socialsecurity.gov/extrahelp. Make Martin Luther King Day a day of service to someone who can use your help. Lead them to www.socialsecurity.gov. It may be easy for you, but it may be a dream come true for the person you help. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You can write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email at vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. LEGAL NOTICES THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Frederic J. Saint Amour, II, a married man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated October 4, 2005 and recorded October 10, 2005 in Instrument Number 1154234, and Affidavit to Expunge Sheriff's Deed recorded on 04/09/2010 Instrument Number 201004090003783, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, National Association, as Trustee, fka The Bank of New York Trust Company, N.A., as Trustee, as successor to JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A. as Trustee for RAMP 2006RS1 by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twelve Thousand Two Hundred Three and 41/100 Dollars ($112,203.41) including interest at 4.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on JANUARY 26, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Real property in the Township of Rutland, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and is described as follows: Commencing at the Northwest corner of CraigGarwood Plat, thence North 1 degree, 44 minutes East 150 feet to the point of beginning; thence South 88 degrees 16 minutes East 83 feet; thence 48 degrees, 14 minutes East 125 feet; thence North 1 degree, 44 minutes East 207.3 feet; thence North 40 degrees, 16 minutes West 33 feet to a point in the center of Hammond Road; thence in a South and West direction to the point of beginning; being the Southeast 1/4 of Section 1, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, Rutland Township, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: December 29, 2011 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 530.1286 77564752 (12-29)(01-19) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 12, 2012 — Page 13 Two more counts brought POLICE BEAT BEA against youth home director Driver leaves behind car, purse and bottle of beer A Michigan State Police trooper was dispatched to a vehicle accident on Airport Road Jan. 7 after the caller reported an intoxicated female driver. The trooper found a 2004 Pontiac Vibe empty, and the owner’s purse and wallet on the floor, along with an opened bottle of beer. The driver was located after checking a couple of possible addresses for the registered owner. The 29-year-old Hastings woman was determined to have been under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash and was arrested. Woman provides nightcap for teen An anonymous caller reported two subjects sitting in a car parked in a lot of a closed business on West Colfax Street in Hastings Jan. 6. The caller said the occupants were playing loud music around 11:50 p.m., as well as taking things out of the car in which they were sitting. Hastings officers arrived to find a 16-year-old male and a 21-year-old female in the vehicle. Reportedly, officers noted the odor of intoxicants coming from the car and observed cleaning products around the outside of the car. After questioning the two, both said they had been consuming intoxicants and had removed cleaning products from the back seat of the vehicle for future use. The female allegedly supplied intoxicants to the minor. The male was cited for minor in possession and was then turned over to another adult. The female was released and told that a report would be forwarded to the prosecutor’s office with a warrant request for furnishing intoxicants to a minor. They took the last train going anywhere Hastings Police were contacted Jan. 5 by a resident reporting that a debit card had been used by someone else to purchase two train tickets. The caller said the transaction had been completed using an online banking procedure Dec. 27, 2011, and the cardholder knew nothing of the purchase. The individual had told the bank of the purchase discrepancy and was advised to contact police. The account has been closed and an investigation is ongoing. Shopper uses cloak of invisibility Hastings Police were called to the Hastings Family Fare Jan. 3 for a reported shoplifting incident. Store personnel had seen a 40-year-old Hastings woman walk through the store and place items in her grocery cart. According to store personnel, the woman covered items in the cart with a coat and put other items below the cart. Store staff reported seeing the suspect pass through the self-checkout lane, paying for only the visible items in her cart, cash in a bottle return slip, and then attempt to leave the store. The woman was taken into custody for retail fraud. Nashville man arrested on five warrants While deputies were investigating another situation Jan. 1, they identified and arrested a 23-year-old Hastings man on five outstanding warrants. The subject was arrested near the intersection of Nashville and River roads in Hastings and transported to Nashville where he was turned over to the Eaton County Sheriff’s Department. The man’s warrants stemmed from failures to appear in Eaton County court on vehicle insurance, plates and speeding charges. Man resists, spits and denies While responding to a reported domestic altercation on Maplewood in Delton Jan. 1, sheriff deputies were told one of the subjects had an outstanding warrant from Bangor. Dispatchers also told deputies that someone at the scene mentioned getting a shotgun. Multiple officers then responded from Barry Township Police, Barry County Sheriff’s Department and sheriff’s posse. The female caller told officers her boyfriend was highly intoxicated and had been roaming the neighborhood, yelling. Reportedly, officers determined no person ever retrieved a shotgun or was there evi- dence of a domestic assault. The man with an outstanding warrant, a 28-year-old Hastings resident, was found hiding near a fence on the property. According to the report, the man said he would not go to jail, then verbally and physically resisted arrest. A deputy was injured during the arrest when he was hit in the jaw by the subject. The man also started spitting at officers and was put in a “spit hood.” He was transported by patrol car to Pennock Hospital and evaluated. He continued to verbally abuse the hospital staff and deputies. The man denied having a warrant out of Bangor, but admitted to having an outstanding warrant from South Haven. The warrant was for failure to appear on a traffic violation. The case is pending prosecutor review. Boyfriend released and needs to know A woman called from her East Day Road residence near Bellevue to complain about harassing phone calls she was receiving from an ex-boyfriend. The woman told deputies Dec. 18 that the man had just been released from jail and had called her eight times in the past hour. She told deputies the 24-year-old Springfield resident was not supposed to call her at all because of a nocontact order. When she had answered the first call, she told him not to call her, but he wanted to know if there was another man in her house. The woman did not answer seven subsequent calls. Another call from the suspect came while deputies were with the complainant and deputies listened to the call via speaker phone. The woman said she had been contacted, previous to the harassing calls, by the prosecutor’s office of the man’s release. The call report was forwarded to the prosecutor for review. Discipline of boy in question A man reported bruises on his 6-year-old son’s back after picking the boy up from his mother’s home in Caledonia Jan. 6. The man told deputies, he did not notice the bruising until they were back at his own residence north of Grand Rapids. The father explained he has parenting time every other weekend. The boy had told his father he had been spanked by his stepfather, which the mother confirmed. Deputies asked the father him to take photos of the bruising and to print off five reported postings on the mother’s Facebook page, in reference to the spanking. After speaking with the father, deputies made contact with Child Protective Services staff, who recommended that the child be taken to a medical facility for evaluation. Kent County CPS was also contacted to conduct a forensic interview with the child. The mother told deputies the child had been acting out after school, and his Nintendo DS had been taken away as punishment. The child attempted to hit and kick his mother during the incident. At that time, the 29-year-old stepfather walked in and spanked the child a few times, according to the mother. The stepfather reported spanking the boy only two times and sent him to his room. The boy then, reportedly, went upstairs to his bedroom and was very quiet. When his mother went to the bedroom to check on him, the window was open and the boy was out on the roof. The boy came back inside and the window was nailed shut. Later that evening, according to mother, she brought ice to soothe the boy’s backside and noticed redness and faint bruising. On Jan. 7, deputies received an email from the stepfather’s lawyer requesting there be no more contact with the couple pertaining a criminal investigation. The case is open and has been forwarded to the prosecutor’s office. Coffee pot may now be a weapon Barry County Deputies were dispatched Jan. 7 to a home on West Cloverdale Road in reference to a domestic assault. The female complainant said her 19-year-old son had head-butted her. When deputies arrived, the son had left the residence, but was reportedly intoxicated and possibly under the influence of prescription medication. According to the woman, her son was found on the floor of the kitchen with several pills spilled around him, possibly Xanax or Norco, she said. When the son woke, he reportedly started lashing out and acted as if he was going to hit his stepfather with a coffee pot, then allegedly headbutted his mother. After wrestling the son to the floor several times, and being unable to calm the subject down, the stepfather locked the son outside the house. The teen then knocked a pane of glass out of the entry door and fled the residence. Deputies located him at a neighbor’s house and he was transported to Pennock by Thornapple Township EMS for evaluation. The case remains open and has been forwarded to the prosecutor. Bellevue resident Michael Terpening, 32, will appear in Barry County District Court for preliminary examination Jan. 13 on two additional counts of criminal sexual conduct, first degree. These new charges stem from a complaint involving a boy under 13 years of age. Terpening is facing more than a dozen previous counts involving multiple teen victims housed at the Education Animal Rescue and Teen Haven in Bellevue. The earlier charges, made since late August, include sexual penetration; criminal sexual conduct, fourth degree; criminal sexual conduct, third degree; and aggravated indecent exposure. Terpening also faces an unrelated insurance fraud charge involving one of the youths and a vehicle accident. Bond was set at $100,000 cash or surety by Judge Michael Schipper. Severe weather preparedness is theme of statewide poster contest To draw attention to the need for being prepared in the event of severe weather, the Michigan Committee for Severe Weather Awareness is sponsoring a severe weather awareness poster contest, open to all students currently enrolled in fourth or fifth grades. The deadline to enter is Feb. 15. Posters must illustrate what individuals and families should do to prepare for Michigan severe weather, such as tornadoes, floods, snowstorms, severe cold, lightning and thunderstorms, according to contest sponsors. The first place winner will receive a $200 U.S. Savings Bond; second place will be awarded a $100 U.S. Savings Bond; third place will receive a $75 U.S. Savings Bond; and honorable mention will be awarded a $50 U.S. Savings Bond. Posters must be approximately 15 by 20 inches and submitted on quality poster or illustration board. The work must be original and may be in any media, with the exception of pencil, chalk, charcoal or glitter. All posters will become the property of the sponsoring organization. The artist’s name, grade and telephone number, along with the name, address and telephone number of the student’s school, and art instructor (if any), must be on the back of the poster. Entries must be postmarked no later than midnight Feb. 15. To enter, send posters wrapped flat to National Weather Service, 9200 White Lake Road, White Lake, MI 48386. For further information, call Lori Conarton at the Insurance Institute of Michigan 517-3712880 or Rich Pollman 248- 625-3309, ext. 726. Hastings City Bank earns highest five-star rating BauerFinancial, Inc., a national bank rating and research firm, has recognized Hastings City Bank as a 5-Star rated bank. A 5-Star rating denotes that Hastings City Bank is one of the best in the nation in terms of its overall financial performance. Hastings City Bank has earned this rating for the past nine consecutive quarters. “The recent uproar against big banks has shed a whole new light on community banks, and for good reason,” said Karen L. Dorway, president of BauerFinancial. “While the primary focus of the big banks is dividend payments, smaller banks tend to be locals and therefore more in tune with the communities they serve. This community focus has paid off as Hastings City Bank has earned Bauer’s highest 5-Star rating for strength and stability. Established in 1886, Hastings City Bank has served its local communities for 125 years. It currently operates through offices in Bellevue, Caledonia, Hastings, Middleville, Nashville and Wayland and can be found on the internet at www.hastingscitybank.com. Delton will honor 1987 football team This year’s inductee into the Delton Kellogg Athletic Hall of Fame is the 1987 varsity football team. The induction ceremony will take place between the varsity boys’ and girls’ basketball games against Galesburg-Augusta, at approximately 7:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 13. That Panther team finished the regular season undefeated and was the first team in school history to make the football playoffs. Head coach Rob Heethuis was named AP Coach of the Year and two players (Rich Blesch and Tim Leto) were selected FirstTeam All-State. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the team. Accident closes Broadway Wednesday afternoon A gray Chevrolet Tahoe traveling east on Apple Street collided with a blue Saturn Vue traveling north on Broadway in Hastings at approximately 4:30 p.m. Wednesday. Witnesses say the Tahoe ran a red light, and “she didn’t even see him coming.” One lane of traffic was closed off as the Saturn was towed. Neither party was injured. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 Automotive For Rent Estate Sale BUYING JUNK VEHICLES, paying cash. Call for quite, 269-830-4842. FOR RENT: 3 Blocks from Central and High School. 3 bedroom, 1 3/4 bathroom, living room/dinning room, kitchen, full basement with half remodeled for more living space. Stove, refrigerator, washer and dryer. Central air, and 2 stall garage wit door opener. Fenced in back yard. $850 month plus deposit. Location: 629 W. Grand St. Call for application and showing. (269)9482809 or (269)953-7904 ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. RICK TAYLOR’S DETAIL WORKS. Auto cleaning service. Hours: 8am-5pm. (269)948-0958. For Sale 100% WOOD HEAT- No worries. Keep your family safe & warm with a Classic Outdoor Wood Furnace from Central Boiler. Call SOS your “Stocking Dealer” Dutton, MI (616)554-8669 or (6+1+6)915-5606+51. AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 DO YOU WANT QUALITY PRINTING at affordable prices? Call J-Ad Graphics at (269)945-9554. National Ads THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is deceptive, fraudulent or might otherwise violate law or accepted standards of taste. However, this publication does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the quality of goods or services advertised. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made in any advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you ask for money in advance of delivery of goods or services advertised. Business Services BOOKKEEPING SERVICES Personal * Self-Employed * Small Business Payroll * Billing Accounts Receivable * Accounts Payable General Ledger Weekly * Monthly * Quarterly * Annually Call today! (269)420-5714 Recreation WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are interested in leasing acreage for this years deer season. Call (269)795-3049 PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 �Page 14 — Thursday, January 12, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Winery possible in vacant Vermontville factory by Shari Carney Staff Writer Gift baskets containing bottles of wine, glasses and chocolates awaited members of the Vermontville Village Council as they met Jan. 5. A start-up winery expects to open in April in the former Michigan Magnetics building, which is zoned industrial. During the meeting, council members discussed possible rezoning from industrial to commercial. Blair Miller, a resident in the audience, spoke of knowledge he had acquired as an affiliate of the start of the Country Mill winery in Potterville. According to Miller, zoning for a winery with only a sampling bar would be considered industrial. The zoning would need to be changed if tables were set up and glasses of wine were served. Trustee Garry Patrick said it was his understanding that the former Michigan Magnetics property was classified as brownfield site. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the term brownfield applies to “real property, the expansion, redevelopment, or reuse of which may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant or contaminant.” Miller said the owners will have to comply with the guidelines set by the health department at the state level. On another matter, Miller updated council on signs, built by the skilled trades class students at Maple Valley High School, that are available to position at points along the Paul Henry Thornapple Trail. The signs are the same size as the one on Mason Road. Council recommended that Department of Public Works Supervisor Monte O’Dell meet with Miller to finalize placement of the signage. “Volunteers are willing to do the work,” said Miller. He then gave an overview of grants that have been procured so far, totaling $250,000 for the trail development and future plans, mentioning a $15,000 deposit toward the purchase of property along the back of the high school. An additional $35,000 is needed to complete the sale. The Michigander Tour is planning an excursion entitled the “Thornapple Trail Expedition.” The trip is slated for the last week of July or first week in August. It will be a six-day canoe/kayak trip. The first day and night will be spent in Vermontville. “We certainly appreciate your efforts with the trail,” Council President Ruth Wineman told Miller. In other business, council members also approved cost of living increases of 3.6 percent for village employees, including the treasurer and clerk. Village employees have not had an increase in two years. During public comment, Ben Page informed council members that he has purchased two properties in the village — 314 S. Main St. and 208 E. Main St. Page said he plans to take the multi-family dwellings and revert them to single family. He asked the council to reduce the five billings for water to two. Council approved and will prorate, if necessary. Trustee Jason Sheridan addressed a complaint received regarding trash at a foreclosed property on East Main. Village Clerk Shirley Harmon had received information from a Mr. Hicks, at Eaton Federal that it would be taken care of within five days. Jeanette Schultz read from the minutes of the Vermontville Township Fire and Ambulance Board meeting Dec. 22, 2011. Fire had a total of 10 runs: three medical assists, two fire, one mutual aid, two personal injury, one odor investigation and one CO2 call. EMS had a total of 18 runs. Wineman proposed a change in how deductions for insurance of village employees, a 20/80 split, are taken. The original arrangement was to have the 20 percent taken over the first two pay periods. “Its very clear that it significantly impacts the employees’ paychecks,” said Wineman. The council approved spreading the deduc- Looking For a PRINTER? 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He based his requests upon missing budget information not available until into January. “We don’t get figures until the first of the year, for example the cost of insurance going up 4 percent, “said Patrick. Wineman said, according to information she had received from the village’s attorney, any change would require permission from the treasury department with the State of Michigan. She will contact that office. Patrick also proposed an additional monthly meeting for council as a whole, to look at the budget and what amounts are available for each area. He said he is concerned that apportionments of funds are being made by individual committees without knowing how much is available overall. Wineman asked Village Treasurer Kelly Williams and Trustee Amy Jo Kinyon to meet and list priorities before involving the entire council. O’Dell recommended, and council approved, Ayles Tree Service bid of $1,100 be accepted over C&H’s bid of $1,200 for the removal of two dead trees. Two are on East Main Street, one on East First and Maple and one on South Main and Second. The trees are in the village right of way and are leaning over the road. Ayles’ bid included stump grinding, C&H’s did not. O’Dell talked about the department’s need for a new pickup truck, assuring the council that funds are available for the purchase, since money has been set aside for years for repairs or replacement. The truck currently in use will be revamped and continue to be part of the fleet. Mention was made that David Spencer’s three-year appointment to the zoning board has expired. Williams asked to attend a training on tax foundation at a cost of $79. The training will be later this month in Lansing. Council passed the request and will fund it from money set aside for training. Sheridan asked for a four-month extension of the moratorium on medical marijuana dated to expire Feb. 1. Council agreed to the request. Harmon informed the council of Broadstripe Cable being sold to Martel Cable based in Nashville. Wineman recommended the acquisition of a credit/debit card (the card does not offer a line of credit) for ease in making purchases, especially over the Internet. Council approved the card and set the limit at $2,000 with signature, $500 as debit. Orioles and Sailors top the Hastings varsity girls’ team Charlotte scored more points in the third quarter Tuesday than Hastings did all night long. The host Orioles topped the Saxons 66-26 in non-conference action. “We were totally flat,” said Saxon head coach Steve Laubaugh. “Things just started snowballing and it peaked in the third when we gave up 30 points in that quarter alone.” Charlotte got 15 points from Hannah Smith and ten from Lucy Sare. Laubaugh said his team was led by Kelsi Harden’s inspired play in the loss. She finished with six points. Taylor Carter had eight points and Erin Gray and Nichole Redman had four each for Hastings. “We’re trying to get better,” said Laubaugh. “The girls are working in practice, but it just hasn’t translated yet.” Hastings is now 0-9 overall this season. It was a tough night for the Saxons Friday too, as they fell 57-17 to league foe South Christian in Hastings. The Sailors won the rebound battle 43-13, and had more offensive rebounds in the first half than the 13 total the Saxons had for the whole game. “We just couldn’t keep them off the boards,” Laubaugh said. “We took 32 shots, they got 56. Our offense is really struggling right now to take care of the ball and find good flow.” Dani Meredith had six points for the Saxons and Carter five. Hastings heads to Ottawa Hills Friday, then Tuesday will be at Lakewood. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 12, 2012 — Page 15 Rams’ zone slows down Lions Delton Kellogg’s Andrea Polley (right) looks to dribble by Parchment’s Kendyl Hinton during Friday night’s KVA contest at Delton Kellogg High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Delton Kellogg girls win two more to stay atop KVA The Delton Kellogg girls hung onto a share of first place in the Kalamazoo Valley Association by beating the team that beat the team that beat them Friday. Delton Kellogg knocked off Parchment 5035 in KVA action Friday, and followed that up with a win over Kalamazoo Christian Tuesday to improve to 5-1 in the league. That leaves the Panthers tied with Olivet atop the league standings. Delton Kellogg fell to Olivet in the first conference contest of the season, but Parchment knocked off the Eagles later in December to hand them their only league loss. Delton’s defense led it to the win over Parchment in Delton Friday. Delton head coach Mike Mohn was happy his team was able to hold Parchment’s top scores Lizzie Tecca and Kendyl Hinton to 13 Parchment’s Rebecca Renema (right) can only look on as Delton Kellogg’s Adrianna Culbert goes up with a shot in the paint Friday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) and 8 points respectively. “Rachel Parker did a great job defensively, and that helps,” said Mohn. “Andrea Polley also did a nice job defensively.” The whole team did a nice job defensively at the get-go. Delton ran out to a 16-4 lead in the opening quarter. “We really came out of the shoot in that first quarter,” said Mohn. “We pressed them and they turned it over a bunch and we got some easy buckets. It really was a nice win for us at home. We’re trying to protect our home court this year and they’re a tough squad Parchment is.” Adrianna Culbert led Delton with 13 points. Mallory Sewell had 12 and Brooke Martin ten. Martin had four big free throws in the fourth quarter to help her team hold off Parchment. Culbert added 12 rebounds. Polley had eight boards as well as three assists. Parker added three assists and three steals. The Panthers are now 7-1 overall. “Sitting up top (of the KVA standings) and I hope we stay there,” Mohn said. “If we keep playing defense like we have been that’s only going to help us, because offensively we’ve been up and down and all over the place.” A big offensive night from Polley helped the Panthers knock off Kalamazoo Christian in Kalamazoo Tuesday 43-29. Polley pumped in 17 points. “She hit a couple threes, had seven rebounds, three steals, two assists and only three turnovers,” said Mohn. “She just had her most complete game of the season so far.” Culbert had ten points and ten rebounds. Sewell, coming back off an illness, added six points and one rebound for Delton. The Panthers moved the ball well on the offensive end to create some easy shots. Mohn was happy with the offensive effort overall and the defensive effort as well. Delton Kellogg limited the Comets to just 11 points in the first half, and 19 through the first three quarters. The Panthers led 25-11 at the half. “Defensively we just have come out, and hopefully that will be our moniker and it will be something we accept,” said Mohn. “It’s fun to watch when we do it right. They just make teams work really, really hard.” The Panthers will try to make GalesburgAugusta work hard Friday night, as the Rams come to Delton for a league contest. Tuesday Delton’s girls will be at home against Schoolcraft. by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Lions couldn’t get around, over or through the Rams’ 2-3 zone Tuesday night. Galesburg-Augusta scored a 53-44 Kalamazoo Valley Association victory over the host Maple Valley varsity boys’ basketball team, in a game in which the Lions led with three and a half minutes to play. “Tough, tough loss,” said Maple Valley head coach Chris Ewing. With some full-court pressure and some offensive rebounds the Lions raced out to a 16-5 lead in the opening quarter of the contest. The Rams though eventually settled down and settled into a 2-3 zone that the Lions never really figured out. “It’s patience. It’s a lot of patience,” said Ewing. “To beat a zone it takes patience, which they had at times and then it kind of got away from them. Patience to get it inside, get it down low, kick it back out, rotate it and use skip passes. Our threes aren’t there right now. Threes are killing us. That’s what we depend on.” The Lions didn’t get the ball inside the Ram zone and they weren’t hitting shots over it. They hit just two threes in the ball game. “They’re not there right now,” Ewing said. “At practice we can go right around the whole gym, every one of the guys can. In a game we’re not doing it.” Two of the Lions’ three field goals in the second quarter came off offensive rebounds. Garrett Reid put one back up and in to put his team up 26-17 with just under four minutes to play in the second quarter. That’s when the Rams’ got going. Galesburg-Augusta scored the last seven points of the first half and then the first five in the second half to take a 29-26 lead. The two teams were back and forth from there until the Rams’ Jordan Born took over in the final minutes. Reid finished off a three-point play at the foul line with 3:30 left in the game to put the Lions ahead 41-39, but the Rams got behind the Lion press and tied the game right back up on a bucket by Eric Ranes. A three by Maple Valley’s Garrett Miller accounted for the Lions’ only points the rest of the way as the Rams ended the game on a 12-3 run. Born had nine points in that run, and led the Rams with 15 for the night. He was 9-of-11 at the free throw line in the contest, and 5-of-6 in the fourth quarter alone. The Rams also got eight points from Jacob Lambert, 11 from Andy Gregg, and seven from Ranes. Reid led the Lions with 15 points as well as ten rebounds, five assists and three steals. Garret Mater chipped in eight points and 12 rebounds. The Lions also got eight points from Miller and seven from Austin Tobias. The Lions didn’t hit shots from behind the three-point line and didn’t get the ball worked into the middle of the Rams’ 2-3 zone. “Reid played a great game,” said Ewing. “He hustled really well. Our sophomores are finally stepping up.” The Lions are now 2-6 overall this season and 1-5 in the Kalamazoo Valley Association. “We’ve got to start playing with determination, play hard, play more physical,” Ewing Maple Valley’s Kyle Spencer has a shot turned aside by GalesburgAugusta’s Austin Pierce (24) and Eric Ranes (22) during the second quarter Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Maple Valley guard Garrett Reid is called for a charge as he crashes into Galesburg-Augusta’s Jordan Born during the third quarter Tuesday at Maple Valley High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Delton Kellogg boys defeat Comets to improve to 6-0 Delton Kellogg’s varsity boys’ basketball team will be looking to improve to 7-0 overall and 6-0 in the Kalamazoo Valley Association when it plays host to GalesburgAugusta Friday. Ryan Watson led the Panthers to win number six on the season Tuesday, pouring in 23 points in his team’s 68-62 KVA victory over visiting Kalamazoo Christian. Delton Kellogg raced out to a 26-10 lead in the opening quarter, then held off the Comets’ second-half charge. Delton Kellogg also got 16 points from Mitchell Wandell, ten from Adam May and six from Zach Leinaar. Nate Niewoonder led the way for Kalamazoo Christian with 18 points. Eric Jones added 14 for the Comets and Brennan Heidema 13. In its first game back from the holiday break the Delton Kellogg team knocked off visiting Parchment Friday 50-36. Delton Kellogg built a 24-19 lead in the first half, then extended the advantage late. Delton would have been able to breathe a little easier with a better night at the free throw line. The host Panthers were just 9-of16. Wandell did go 4-for-4 at the stripe, and lead Delton with 12 points. Norm O’Meara added eight points for Delton, Adam May seven and Zach Meyers six. Watson and Nick Brindley had five each. Brady VanderWeele did most of the damage for Parchment, finishing with 22 points. He knocked down three threes in the ballgame. Jalen Boyd added eight points. After Friday’s meeting with GalesburgAugusta the Delton boys will be on the road Thornapple Kellogg boys fall for the first time in O-K Gold Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity boys’ basketball team suffered its first loss of the O-K Gold Conference season Friday, falling 56-43 at Forest Hills Eastern. The Trojans struggled to put the ball in the basket, shooting just 34-percent from inside the three-point line and just 19-percent from behind it. TK fired up 21 threes, but connected on just four of them. Greg Hamilton did knock down three and finish with a game-high 26 points for TK. Alex Harrison led the Hawks with 19 points. FHE also got eight points each from Cody Reinke and Quinton Marrow. Marrow had four assists and Reinke had ten rebounds. said. “Galesburg outhustled us on the boards. First quarter we did really well. The intensity was up, then the rest of the game the intensity went down. Hopefully they bring it all to Schoolcraft on Friday, because if not it’ll be kind of a scary game.” Kalamazoo Christian ran out to a 17-6 first quarter lead and cruised to a 65-39 win over the Maple Valley boys Friday night in Kalamazoo. The Comets got 21 points from Eric Jones, and another 11 from Josh Feddema as they improved to 4-3 overall this season. The Comets stretched their lead to 34-16 by the end of the first half. Maple Valley got ten points on the night from Gonser, who knocked down a pair of three-pointers. Miller also hit two threes and finished with six points for the Lions. Reid chipped in six points as well for Maple Valley, and Tobias five. for their next four games starting with a trip to Schoolcraft Tuesday. Delton Kellogg’s Mitchell Wandell flies past Parchment’s Tristan Jehnsen on his way to the basket Friday evening at Delton Kellogg High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) JoJo Stankowski chipped in seven points and ten rebounds for the Hawks. A 16-9 run in the second quarter allowed the hosts to pull out to a 24-20 half-time lead. The Hawks didn’t extend their advantage until the fourth quarter, when they outscored the Trojans 17-10. DJ Nolff added seven points for TK. Caden Francisco had seven rebounds, but just three points for TK. The Trojans were outrebounded 40 to 30 on the night. The Trojans had won first three O-K Gold Conference games, and their previous five overall. The Trojans were off Tuesday and they return to action at Caledonia Friday. GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Delton Kellogg’s Norm O’Meara bumps into Parchment’s Tristan Jehnsen as he makes his way towards the basket Friday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. �Page 16 — Thursday, January 12, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Toss helps Scots top Saxons in conference dual by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Fighting Scots had a plan for the 125and 130-pound matches in their O-K Gold Conference dual with Hastings Wednesday night. Things were a little extra exciting because they had to wait until the end of the dual to implement that plan. Caledonia’s varsity wrestling team took its first step towards defending the conference championship it won last winter by knocking off visiting Hastings 30-23. Hastings built a 23-13 lead through the night’s first ten matches beginning at 135 pounds. Freshman Ethan Young and senior Bobby Montney capped off the Caledonia comeback, with Young scoring a 16-0 technical fall over Ethan Haywood at 125 pounds and Montney knocking off Davey Case 5-2 at 130 pounds. “When we set our line-up up, (125 pounds) was the match we wanted to control,” said Fighting Scot head coach Shawn Veitch. “Now, I didn’t really want to start at 135 so it came down to that, but that was the match that we wanted - that match-up. It seemed to be the right one too.” The Scots chose the even matches after winning the toss before the match, meaning Hastings would have to send its wrestler to the table first for the 125-pound bout. “I don’t know if Haywood or Case is any better. I just know Case’s name. He’s been around the program a little bit longer. He’s a senior,” said Veitch. “Haywood I think is only a sophomore. So, you know Bobby Montney is my senior. I wanted a senior to go against Case, a senior. I felt like Ethan Young’s style would give Haywood troubles. I knew Haywood would come at the head and we could stay low.” Veitch said he thinks that’s something his Hastings’ Davey Case lifts Caledonia’s Bobby Montney off the mat during the first period of their 130-pound bout Wednesday at Caledonia High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) coaching staff does as well, or better, than any coaching staff in the state - scout opponents and come up with detailed plans. Hastings does an okay job of that too. TK and Hastings finish 1-2 at first Gold cheer jamboree More than 20 points separated the defending O-K Gold Conference champion Trojans from the runner-up Saxons Wednesday. Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity competitive cheer team won all three rounds and took the day’s title with 708.4660 points at the first OK Gold Jamboree of the season. Host Hastings was second with a score of 686.6040, followed by Wayland 665.1420, Grand Rapids Catholic Central 643.4190 and Caledonia 638.4352. The Trojans built much of their final lead with a round three score of 289.8, which was just over ten points better than the Saxons’ 279 in that round. TK also scored a 213.2 in round one and a 205.4660 in round two. The Saxons scored a 206.8 in round one and a 200.8040 in round two. Hastings had the second-best score of the day in rounds two and three, while Wayland earned that honor in round one with a score of 209.6. Hastings did edge Thornapple Kellogg in the day’s JV competition, with the Saxons scoring a 580.4544 to take first place while the Trojans were second out of four teams with a 536.2160. The league was slated to get together again Wednesday in Caledonia and will head to Wayland for another league jamboree Jan. 18. Hastings will be at the West Ottawa invitational Saturday. TK/Hastings boys swim well in loss to GR West Catholic The Thornapple Kellogg/Hastings varsity boys’ swimming and diving team opened up action in its revamped conference with a 10976 to West Catholic at Union High School in Grand Rapids Thursday. The Trojan team won just three events, but had swimmers set 14 different personal records on the evening. Craig Gagnon had his best times ever in winning the 200-yard freestyle and the 100-yard breaststroke for TK/Hastings. He won the freestyle in 2 minutes 2.01 seconds and the breaststroke in 1:14.01. TK/Hastings’ other winner was Levi Ryfiak, who won the 100-meter butterfly in 1:06.64. TK/Hastings head coach Tyler Bultema said that Gagnon had three other teammates also set personal records in two events, Fredrik Isgard, Chad Singleterry and Carl Franson. One of the most impressive PRs of the day for the Trojans was earned by Ronnie Collins, who cut 43 seconds off his previous best time in the 500-yard freestyle. The meet was the first for the Trojans since the Dec. 10 Raider Sprints at Grand Rapids Community College. “I wasn’t really expecting it. It was kind of a surprise,” Bultema said of all the PR’s in the first meet back after the break. He said he changed things up a bit this holiday season for his team. Rather than cramming in lots of yards swimming over the break the team spent more time than usual working on strokes and technique. There is still a ways to go though. “Overall they swam well (Thursday),” Bultema said, “but we still found stuff to work on - technique, turns and exchanges.” The Trojans have had a week to do that, preparing for their second O-K Rainbow dual of the season, which will be in Hastings Thursday against Wayland. That will be the first of four consecutive Thursday evening duals for the TK/Hastings boys in their home pool. SAXON WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE Complete online schedule at: www.hassk12.org THURSDAY, JANUARY 12 Boys Girls Boys Girls Boys Fresh. Fresh. JV JV Varsity Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Swimming WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 18 Ottawa Hills HS Ottawa Hills HS Ottawa Hills HS Ottawa Hills HS Wayland Union HS A H A H H FRIDAY, JANUARY 13 A A TBA Girls MS Cheer 9:00 AM Boys Varsity Wrestling A A 9:00 AM 9:00 AM 1:00 PM 1:00 PM 3:00 PM H H A A H Middleville Lowell Rivers Memorial Tournament JV Wrestling Hastings “B” Duals B Team Wrestling Saxon B Team Duals Varsity Cheer West Ottawa Invite JV Cheer West Ottawa Invite Varsity Ice Hockey Bishop Foley HS TUESDAY, JANYARY 17 Boys Girls Boys Girls Girls Boys Girls Fresh. Fresh. JV JV MS Varsity Varsity Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Cheer Basketball Basketball Varsity JV JV B Team Varsity Cheer Cheer Wrestling Wrestling Wrestling OK Gold Jam @ Wayland OK Gold Jam @ Wayland Wayland Union HS Wayland Union HS Wayland Union HS A A H H H 6:00 PM Boys Varsity Swimming Unity Christian HS H Times and dates subject to change SATURDAY, JANUARY 14 4:00 PM 4:00 PM 5:30 PM 5:30 PM 6:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM Girls Girls Boys Boys Boys THURSDAY, JANUARY 19 6:00 PM Girls Varsity Basketball Ottawa Hills HS 7:30 PM Boys Varsity Basketball Ottawa Hills HS Boys Boys Girls Girls Boys 5:30 PM 5:30 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:30 PM Pennfield HS Lakewood HS Lakewood HS Lakewood HS All Conference @ HMS Lakewood HS Lakewood HS H A H A H H A Thanks to This Week’s Sponsor: Gregory T. Randall D.D.S., P.C. Hastings Family Dental Care 212 W. State Road, Hastings, MI 49058 Office: (269) 94-TOOTH (269) 94 (86684) GOOD LUCK SAXONS HASTINGS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS Contact Nancy 945-2742 or hastingsathleticboosters@gmail.com to sponsor the schedule 77565029 4:30 PM 4:30 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM “You put our less experienced kid against their less experienced kid and they won, and you put their more experienced against our more experienced and they won,” Hastings head coach Mike Goggins said. “The toss was difficult, but we got some great matches out of a couple kids.” Who wrestled who at 125 pounds wouldn’t have mattered without John Leark at 112 pounds and Spencer Plattner at 119 starting the rally by the Scots. Leark needed three takedowns in the third period, including a final one with just 12 seconds left, to top the Saxons’ Zach Wilcox 8-7. Each team had just one pin in the dual, Plattner earned the one for the Scots’ by sticking Shane Tossava 4 minutes and 56 seconds into the 119-pound match. That pulled the Scots within a point at 23-22 heading into the 125-pound match. “This one was a flip of a coin,” Goggins said. “You don’t have that very often. We win that and maybe it’s different. Not for sure, but maybe it’s different. We get the flip of the coin we win one more match there and we win at 112, a match we gave away with seconds to go there. Those are two key matches. I hope we learned something from it.” Joey Montney won the first match of the night for the Scots, topping Joey Siska 8-0 in the 135-pound match. Hastings though won the next four bouts, starting with what might have been the only upset of the night as Jason Slaughter topped The Saxons’ Ethan Haywood (top) tries to fight his way off of his back during the first period of his 125-pound match with Caledonia’s Ethan Young Wednesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Brad Orszula 5-3 at 140 pounds. The Saxons then had Chase Huisman top Garrett Hubbell 8-6 at 145 pounds, Kenny Cross score a 23-8 technical fall against Jon Hubbell at 152 pounds, and Stephen Kendall knocked off Austin Simmons 8-4 at 160. Caledonia followed up that run with three straight wins of its own. Travis Pitsch scored an 11-6 win over Cody Newton at 171 pounds, Kyle Schutt topped Joe Krebbs 4-0 at 189, and Joel Wenk beat Nate Pewoski at 215 pounds 7-2. Hastings also had Mike Pewoski top Jake VanderVeen 6-2 in the 285-pound match, and Aaron Williams score his team’s only pin in the 103-pound match. He stuck Noah Williams in 2:26. Saxons pull away from Orioles in 4th by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Saxons are tough to beat when things are clicking on both ends of the floor for them. Playing three quarters of solid basketball on both ends of the floor wasn’t enough to get the Saxons past South Christian in O-K Gold Conference action Friday night, but one quarter of that solid play at both ends was enough to get the Saxons past Charlotte in non-conference action Tuesday. Hastings topped the visiting Orioles 47-35 Tuesday, pulling away with a 21-15 run in the fourth quarter. The Saxons led 26-20 after three quarters, despite struggling with the Orioles’ 2-3 zone defense in the third quarter and having to deal with an extreme height disadvantage. Hastings had 21 turnovers in the contest. But in the fourth quarter, the Saxons got the ball moving on the offensive end of the floor. Five different Hastings players scored in the period, including Luke Heide and Maxwell Clark who both knocked down a pair of threepointers in the fourth quarter to help the Saxons extend their lead. Heide and Clark wound up tying for the team lead in scoring with 12 points each. “We were getting what I call rhythm jump shots,” said Hastings head coach Don Schils. Center Eric Hart finished with ten points and also did a good job defensively against the Orioles’ two big centers. Charlotte was led by point guard Aubrey Parrish, who finished with 13 points. “We’re a young team trying to figure out who we are still,” Schils said. “We’re on a roller coaster right now. We’re working on becoming more consistent.” The roller coaster has taken the Saxons to a 5-3 record so far this season, but they are just 1-3 in O-K Gold Conference play. South Christian topped the Saxons 61-50 in Hastings Friday night, in a game in which the Saxons led 34-33 with a minute to play in the third quarter. “For three quarters I thought we played the best, balanced basketball we’ve played in terms of offense and defense. We played very well on both ends of the floor,” Schils said, “which has been a struggle this year.” The Sailors drilled a three-pointer in the final minute of the third quarter, then got another bucket in the fourth to go up 38-34 heading into the final period. Schils said his team made some basic fundamental mistakes on defense in the fourth quarter and didn’t move the ball around as well offensively. South Christian also used a stellar performance at the free throw line to hold off the Saxons. The Sailors were 19-of-22 for the night at the line, and 11-of-12 in the fourth quarter. Jordan Mulder led South Christian with 14 points on the night. The game had been close throughout. The Sailors led 26-23 at the half. Keith Garber led Hastings with 14 points and seven rebounds. Danny Buehler scored 11 points, and also did a great job of distributing the basketball to open teammates early on. “He can score,” Schils said of Buehler, “and when he also distributes the basketball we’re a much better team.” The Saxons also got nine points each out of Heide and Clark. The Saxons return to league play Friday, at Ottawa Hills, then will be home for a contest with non-conference rival Lakewood Tuesday. FHE girls rally to top Trojans The Thornapple Kellogg varsity girls’ basketball team fell to 1-7 with a 41-35 loss at Forest Hills Eastern Friday. The host Hawks outscored the Trojans 195 in the final quarter, after the Trojans exited the third period with a 30-22 advantage. FHE’s Lexi Reninger led all scorers with 16 points. The Hawks also got eight points from Jesse Fatum, six from Taylor Winchester and five each from Rachel Harvey and Alyssa Vandenberge. Shelby Tedrow led the Trojans with 12 points while Kelli Graham chipped in ten, Sydney Krol five and Erin Ellinger four. TK was off Tuesday night and will return to action Friday at Caledonia. LHS girls hold Corunna to 28 points by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Vikings stressed two things in the build up to their league contest with Corunna Friday night - their defensive game plan and being more patient on offense. The practice time paid off as Lakewood’s varsity girls’ basketball team scored its first Capital Area Activities Conference White Division win of the season Friday, topping the visiting Cavaliers 44-28. Lakewood built a double-digit lead in the first half, and held the lead in double figures for nearly all of the second half. The Lakewood defense held the Cavaliers to just six points in the opening quarter, eight in the second, and seven each in the third and fourth. The Vikings limited the Cavaliers ability to move cutters from the outside into the post and get them the basketball. Point guard Brooke Wieland’s ball pressure at the top of the key slowed down the Cavaliers’ attack as well. “Brooke set the tone with her defense outside,” said Lakewood head coach Denny Frost. “She doesn’t score a point and is probably the most valuable player in the game, and that’s what we need out of her from that aspect.” Wieland also did a nice job on the other end, playing the point guard position. Moving Wieland to the point freed up teammate Madi King on the offensive end a bit. “She bought into it, which is huge because she’s been our point guard for two years, our most valuable player,” Frost said of King. “It’s just an adjustment where you kind of hesitate because you don’t know how she’s going to feel. She bought into it. She’s a better rebounder from that side. She can shoot it. She can penetrate. It gives her more options offensively.” King had 11 points, six rebounds and three assists while also adding six steals on the other end of the floor. Emily Kutch led the Vikings with 12 points and nine rebounds. She also had three assists Lakewood teammates Kristin Hilley (left) and Brooke Wieland (right) team up to force a jump ball after Corunna’s Madison Turner comes down with a defensive rebound in the second half Friday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) and five steals. Kristin Hilley chipped in ten points for the Vikings and Hannah DeJong had eight. “Hannah DeJong was huge. She rebounded, she played great defense. I’m really happy for that kid,” Frost said. “She’s a senior that has been here two years. It’s her third year on varsity and she hasn’t played a lot. She gave us some great minutes inside.” “Another one that stepped up big tonight was Ellie Reynolds. Ellie came in and gave me four or five minutes in that first half, hit a big three, played solid defense.” Payton Birchmeier had 11 points and 11 rebounds to lead Corunna. The Cavaliers also got five points each from Cheyenne Kersjes and Morgan Cnudde. “That’s the first solid four quarters we played this year,” Frost said. The Vikings are now 2-7 overall and 1-2 in the CAAC-White. The Vikings return to action in a league contest at Perry Friday. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 12, 2012 — Page 17 Viking boys get their first victory of the season by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Vikings needed that one. Lakewood’s varsity boys’ basketball team snapped a six-game losing streak to open the season by scoring a 57-43 Capital Area Activities Conference White Division win over visiting Corunna Friday. The Vikings went on a 10-0 run over the final five minutes of the first half to take a 2213 lead into the break, and led the rest of the evening. A flurry by senior forward Jordan Cooper sparked the run and had the Wacky Woodies cheering his name. Cooper drove to the basket for the two points that put his team up for good at 14-13, made a couple of diving deflections on the defensive end, and then drilled a three-pointer that extended his team’s lead. Cooper finished the night with ten points, as well as a team highs in rebounds (6) and steals (4). David Parks paced a balanced Viking offensive attack with 14 points, while Dylan Durkee and Adam Barker contributed eight points each, Spencer Palmer had seven and Jacob Buehler six. All six of Buehler’s points came from a 6for-6 performance at the free throw line. It was a great night for the Vikings at the stripe. They hit their first 20 free throws, and finished 27-of-31 overall at the line. “I know we can shoot like that, but Wednesday night we were five for ten,” said Lakewood head coach Mark Farrell. “I think every game we’ve shot close to 70-percent until that Wednesday night game (a loss at Pewamo-Westphalia).” The Vikings spent most of the first hour and a half of their Thursday practice focused on defense, and it paid off Friday. “I go guys, we’re not doing the little things right now like communicating that there’s a cutter coming to the middle, and we’re not bumping when they dribble at you and you’re supposed to bump and switch,” Farrell said. “We’re not doing those things and we’re not communicating. In the first half (Friday) I heard them talking better. We communicated better. We recognized those bumps better.” “I told them at half-time I don’t know how you could play any better defense.” Montgomery Myles led Corunna with 19 points on the night, and Mikhail Myles chipped in ten. They key for the Vikings offensively was dealing with the Cavaliers’ full-court pressure. “I was very happy with the way we dealt with the pressure,” Farrell said. “I know we turned it over a few times and had some fumbles here and there, but the kids made the next pass. They saw the next pass instead of just putting their head down and going somewhere. They took it to the basket when it was open, and t the end they brought it out when it wasn’t.” Corunna did cut the Viking lead to six points a couple of times in the fourth quarter, but the Vikings got rebounds when they needed to and hit the free throws they had to to seal the win. Lakewood is now 1-6 overall this season and 1-2 in the CAAC-White. The Vikings return to league action at Perry Friday. Pewamo-Westphalia topped the Vikings in non-conference action Wednesday 54-29, after running out to a 17-2 lead in the opening quarter. “They came out the first quarter and just pressured and pressured and pressured,” Farrell said. “It wasn’t that they stole the ball on the press, but we got down to the other end and we couldn’t run our offense. So, either they got a deflection, or we threw it out of bounds, or there was a deflection off of us, or we took a real quick shot and then whoop the other way. “That was an eye-opener for us.” Pewamo-Westphalia got 12 points from Ty Simon and 11 from Justin Thelen. Kalib McKinney led the Vikings with six points and four steals. Lakewood forward David Parks is whistled for a charge as he collides with Corunna’s Mitchell Poirer during the fourth quarter Friday night at Lakewood High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) TK team handles Catholic Central Lakewood’s Jordan Cooper (30) is challenged by Corunna’s Mitchell Poirer during the third quarter Friday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Delton Kellogg girls place second at their own tourney Delton Kellogg’s varsity competitive cheer team had the best round two score of the day, and the second best score in each of the other two rounds, to finish second at its own DK Invitational Saturday. Hanover-Horton took the day’s title with a team score of 613.1150 points. Delton Kellogg was second with a 577.2180. Hanover-Horton had the best scores in the first and third rounds, scoring a 191.5 to start the day and then adding a 268.0 at the end of the competition. In between, Hanover-Horton scored a 153.6150 in round two. Delton Kellogg scored a 162.2180 in round two, adding that to a 186.3 in round one and a 236.7 in round three. “We did okay, not great, but we are looking to improve for our first conference meet,” said Delton Kellogg head coach Zoe Reynolds. Pennfield was third with a 573.7660 overall, followed by White Pigeon 570.7600, Zeeland West 549.5504, Bangor 534.7418, Hopkins 518.1760 and Schoolcraft 516.8800. The first conference meet for the Panthers included a handful of the teams from Saturday’s competition. White Pigeon was scheduled to host the first Southern Michigan Competitive Cheer Conference jamboree of the season Wednesday. Paw Paw won the day’s JV competition Saturday, finishing with a score of 576.1100. Delton Kellogg’s JV girls were second with a three-round total of 534.7932. Grand Rapids Catholic Central is a program on the rise in the O-K Gold Conference, but the Cougars aren’t ready to contend with the league’s best yet. Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity wrestling team opened conference action with a 47-16 win over the host Cougars Wednesday. The heavyweights got the Trojans rolling, as the match started at 160 pounds. TK won five of the first six matches highlighted by first period pins from Austin Koehl at 215 pounds and Adrian Foster at 285. Those were two of four pins by the Trojans, who also got six points from Ryan Flynn at 119 pounds and Nick Iveson at 130. While the Trojans earned bonus points in those matches and in major decisions by Cole Gahan at 152 pounds and Oscar Cardosa at 145, TK head coach Scott Szczepanek said that his team showed depth and toughness in allowing the Cougars to score bonus points in only two matches. TK also had Nick Flynn get six points for the team as Catholic Central forfeited the 125-pound bout. Cody Ybema (160) and Dan Dykstra (171) started the night off by winning decisions for the Trojans. Ryan Gorton at 103 pounds followed up the back-to-back pins by Koehl and Foster by winning a back and forth match with the BOWLING SCORES Monday Mixerettes NBT 43.5-28.5; Dean’s Dolls 40.5-31.5; Dewey’s Auto Body 37-35; Kent Oil 37-35; Nashville Chiropractic 33-39; James Process Service 25-47. Good Games and Series - K. Eberly 199; D. Snyder 178; J. Rice 177-489; D. James 188; T. Shaeffer 183; C. Hurless 177-444; S. Dunham 178; V. Carr 179; S. Nash 151-431. Senior Citizens Butterfingers 48-24; Just Having Fun 43.528.5; Kuempel 42-30; Usedtobe #1 40-32; M&M’s 35-37; Three Gals & a Guy 35-37; King Pins 35-37; Early Risers 33-39; Sun Risers 30.5-41.5; Ward’s Friends 18-54. Women’s Good Games and Series - Y. Cheeseman 188; G. Scobey 170-453; E. Ulrich 173; M. Kingsley 108-241. Men’s Good Games and Series - C. Atkinson 212-527; K. Schantz 180-467; B. Terry 193; R. Walker 194-499; W. Talsma 186-477; R. McDonald 219; D. Murphy 147. Wednesday PM Mills Landing 50-22; Eye & ENT 42-30; The River 40-32; Hair Care 38.5-29.5*; Four Pals 33.5-38.5. Good Games and Series - A. Tasker 137; P. Shellington 153-423; S. Daniel 159; S. Beebe 171; N. Potter 212-441; L. Elliston 187-526; K. Moore 143-358; J. Shurlow 184457; R. Pitts 138. *Games to be made up. Tuesday Trios Rollarama 52-24; CB’s 51-25; Look Insurance 45-31; Lu’s Team 43-33; Twisted Sisters2 43-33; Shirlee’s Team 41-35; Blair Landscaping 40-36; Coleman Agency 36-40; Team Turkey 32-44; Trouble 28-48; Classic 3 28-48; Ghost Team 7-69. High Game and Series - A. Trumble 152- 342; L. Scurlock 196-487; M. Heath 192-484; H. Reischner 182-508; R. Brummel 195-550; S. Burd 158; G. Breitner 173-413; D. Clark 145-368; K. Carpenter 170; T. Daniels 207534. Tuesday Night Mixed Boyce Milk Haulers 48-28; Hurless Machine Shop 46.5-29.5; Barry County Red Cross 44-32; Hometown Lumber 43.5-32.5; JBar Antique Tractors 32-44; Dirt Broke 14-62. Men’s Good Games and Series - A. Mirr 233; D. Benner 225-631; G. Hause 215; K. Beebe 191; D. Kiersey 175. Women’s Good Games and Series - R. Ulrich 189-513; M. Majava 189-378; S. Beebe 184; B. Wilkins 182; B. Smith 176. Thurs. Bowling Miller Farm Repair 43.5-24.5; Rock-NBowlers 39.5-28.5; Moore’s Apts. 39-29; Hastings Bowl 39-29; Riverfront Fin. Ser. 3830; Cathy’s Cut & Curl 33-35; Varney’s Const. 32-36. High Game and Series - J. Wyant 192-506; S. Butler 169; R. Argo 136; R. Cheeseman 170; J. Wood 130; C. Cooper 194; P. McDiarmid 187; C. Hurless 177-494; K. Burch 133; N. Newton 145; C. Purdum 187507; B. Noteboom 170; J. Zaagman 211; M. Moore 166; B. Cuddahee 201. Sat. Majors (Youth League) Strikers 31-13; Leones 28-16; Whatever 21.5-22.5; Zombies 19-25; Hastings Bowl 17.5-26.5; Great Balls of Fire 15-29. Good Games and Series Girls - C. Roush 166. Good Games and Series Boys - J. Clous 133; J. Thompson 150-408; J. Wright 156; S. Stout 131-300; M. Brown 154; W. Arnold 184; J. Elliott 98-264. 07590389 Cougars’ Dominic Ciucci 16-9. Szczepanek said he was also pleased with the way Paul Haney and Austin Sensiba battled in their losses at 135 pounds and 140 pounds respectively. They were each bumped up a weight class because teammate Nate Iveson was off over the holidays doing mission work in Mexico. The Cougars’ Ryan Nelson topped Haney 10-7 at 135 pounds, while Sensiba was downed 14-6 by the Cougars’ Joe English at 140. The Cougars’ other winners on the night were Dan Drummond who won a 5-2 decision over Pete Westra at 189 pounds and Dan Sayfie who won by pin at 112. Lakewood girls will host ‘Hoops for Hope’ on Jan. 17 Lakewood High School girls’ basketball’s 4th annual Hoops for Hope games will take place Tuesday, Jan. 17, at Lakewood High School. All 3 levels of the program will be playing against Hastings that evening with the freshman team beginning at 4 p.m., the junior varsity at 5:30 and the varsity at 7. The Hoops for Hope games are played to raise awareness and money for the fight against cancer. All money raised this year will be donated to the American Cancer Society’s Coaches vs. Cancer program. Money will be raised through T-shirt sales, a bake sale, a memory and honor wall and donations. Cancer survivors will be honored before the start of the varsity contests, and there will be a Miracle Minute at half-time of the varsity game. Anyone who would like to purchase a Tshirt in advance can contact varsity coach Denny Frost at Lakewood High School or any Lakewood High School girls’ basketball player. �Page 18 — Thursday, January 12, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Full line-up helps Pine River win L.H. Lamb title The Saxons’ Aaron Williams (top) turns Petoskey’s Robert Kibbe towards his shoulders during the first period of their 103-pound championship Saturday at the LH Lamb Tournament. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Hastings’ varsity wrestling team gets together to celebrate its runner-up finish at Saturday’s LH Lamb Tournament in Hastings. (Photo by Brett Bremer) by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The kids that showed up were tough to beat. Things were a little different at the L.H. Lamb Tournament in Hastings Saturday. Hastings’ Zach Wilcox needed to win just one match, toping Bronson’s Jake Littlefield 9-7, to win the tournament championship at 112 pounds. There were only three wrestlers in his weight class. Lakewood only brought nine wrestlers. Delton Kellogg only brought eight. “Yeah, it was kind of a different tournament this year because Lakewood had a few holes in their line-up,” said Hastings head coach Mike Goggins. “I had a couple of starters out. Pine River, they were kind of a dark horse nobody paid much attention to them, but their kids were tough. I was pleased. Some of my younger kids kind of found out what it’s like when you get some tougher competition in there.” Pine River, with a full line-up for 14 Delton Kellogg’s Tyler Dempsey (top) works towards a take down of Pine River’s Abel Langworthy during the first period of their 130-pound championship match Saturday at Hastings High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) wrestlers, took the day’s championship with 156 points. The host Saxons were second with 142, just half a point ahead of the Lakewood team which finished with 141.5 points. Bronson was fourth with 135 points, followed by Petoskey 63, Ionia 62.5, Holland 56.5 and Delton Kellogg 39. Pine River and Hastings both had three individual champions, while five of the nine Lakewood wrestlers took titles. Pine River clinched the win by putting eight wrestlers in the championship finals. “With only nine guys we definitely did really well, only out of second-place by half a point. That was good,” said Lakewood 215pounder Lars Pyrzinski, who was one of the five Lakewood champions. The 189-pound, 215-pound and 285-pound champions were all from Lakewood. “We just work hard,” Pyrzinski said of the Viking heavyweights. “(Bob) Veitch is a great heavyweight coach.” Pyrzinski pinned Ionia’s Chase Arrell 3 minutes and 46 seconds into the 215-pound final. Jack Tromp won the 189-pound title for Lakewood with an 8-4 decision over Pine River’s Tom miller in the final, and Garrett Hyatt won at 285 pounds for Lakewood by pinning Pine River’s Kyle Charles 59 seconds in to their championship bout. “It definitely helps (having talented wrestlers of similar size),” Pyrzinski said. “It helps with experience, and getting mat time in. It just helps having their experience that they can teach you and everything.” “Me and Garrett have great matches in practice, and it helps when (285-pound state champion Ryan) Steverson comes back and helps us.” Lakewood also had Jordon Bennett win the 140-pound weight class with a 12-3 major decision of Ionia’s Brandon Piggott in the final, and Nick Briggs win the 152-pound title with a 5-2 win over Pine River’s Cason Rawson. While Lakewood dominated the heavyweight divisions, Hastings controlled the lightweights. Wilcox took the 112-pound title and Aaron Williams scored three pins to win the 103-pound championship. Williams stuck Petoskey’s Robert Kibbe 57 seconds into the championship match. Kenny Cross won a major decision and had two pins on his way tot he 160-pound title for Hastings, but got a good fight from Holland’s Matt Ortiz in the championship match - a match Cross won by fall in 5:32. 2012 Long Term Care Nursing Home Update The 160-pound medalists are honored at the end of the 2012 L.H. Lamb Tournament in Hastings. Medal winners (from left) are Hastings’ Kenny Cross, Holland’s Matt Ortiz, Lakewood’s Garrett Phelps and Delton Kellogg’s Evan Curtice. (Photo by Brett Bremer) “That was a good match,” Goggins said. “That’s good for him. He needs to have some matches that challenge him right now and kind of push him a little bit. That kid certainly was not intimidated. He was throwing him like crazy, in fact he tossed him twice.” Holland’s lone champion was Nikolas Leal, a returning state champion won the 135pound weight class Saturday by topping Pine River’s Mitch Kelsey 13-4 in the finals. Leal was named the tournament’s Most Outstanding Wrestler. Pine River’s champions included Kyle Nixon at 125 pounds, Abel Langworthy at 130 and Larry Kissinger at 145. Langworthy and Kissinger topped local wrestlers in tough matches for their titles. Kissinger got a reversal and two near-fall points late in the third period to top Hastings’ Chase Huisman 6-5. Langworthy eked out a 15-10 win over Delton Kellogg’s lone finalist, Tyler Dempsey. “He was a lot bigger than I was . Adjusting to that match and that pace was really tough,” Dempsey said. “I have not had a whole lot of tough matches (this season) honestly, but every time I get one of those tough matches you just get better from it. When you lose you can always find something you can get better at.” He thought all his teammates that partici- pated in the tournament should be able to find ways to get better from the experience. Half of the eight Delton wrestlers medaled, with Devin Kallee third at 215 pounds and Kenmark Maligat (135 pounds) and Evan Curtice (160) both placing fourth. “We brought eight guys to the tournament,” said Delton Kellogg head coach Dan Phillips. “The rest of the guys I sent to a JV tournament (Friday), because we are so young. I mean so young, young doesn’t even begin to describe it. So, I sent a lot of them to a JV tournament to get some success. They did really well there. All the boys I brought today I thought they wrestled hard. They battled . Most of them battled all three periods. They showed me some stuff. They showed me some heart and some stuff that I haven’t seen before this year. That’s a real promising sign, especially going into our KVA schedule.” Hastings had Joe Krebs (171) and Mike Pewoski (285) place third, and Shane Tossava (119), Stephen Kendall (152) and Nate Pewoski (215) fourth. Lakewood also had Dylan Shoup (119) second, Garrett Phelps (160) third and Austin Kietzman (125) fourth. Bronson had the day’s only two other champions. Leo Mora won the 171-pound title and Hunter Machus took the title at 119 pounds. State Implements “Estate Recovery” Program On July 1, 2011, Michigan began its long anticipated “Estate Recovery” program. Estate Recovery is the concept that people over the age of 55 who receive Medicaid assistance with long term care expenses face the possibility that when they die the state can seek recovery of the expenses paid for their medical care from assets they own at their death. Estate Recovery was first mandated by the federal government in 1993. Michigan became the last state of the union to adopt an estate recovery law, which occurred with the passage of MCL 400.11g 400.112(j) in 2007 along with the modification of MCL 700.3805. Despite the passage of the 2007 law, implementation of an estate recovery program was delayed until July 1, 2011. In late July, early August, clients who had family members who received Medicaid benefits and have since died, began receiving notices that estate recovery claims would be made against the estates of these deceased family members. It is important to understand that the existence of an estate recovery program does not alter the fact that for eligibility purposes a homestead remains an exempt asset. In fact estate recovery has nothing to do with eligibility. Estate recovery only comes into play when a person who was eligible for Medicaid assistance and who received long term care Medicaid benefits, dies. Michigan’s estate recovery law is new, unclear in several respects, and may change. With that in mind, here is what is known about Michigan’s program: 1. Michigan’s estate recovery law began operating July 1, 2011. 2. It will seek recovery for care costs for allowable Medicaid expenses going back to July 1, 2010. 3. Estate recovery claims will be asserted for all expenses paid to a Medicaid beneficiary receiving assistance for nursing home expenses, or benefits provided though the MI Choice Waiver Program, the Home Help program, Medicaid covered hospital expenses, Medicaid covered prescription drugs and/or PACE programs. HMS Estate Recovery Documents Generated at Death When a long term care Medicaid beneficiary dies, HMS generates various documents, including: The Notice of Intent to File Claim Against Estate and the Michigan Estate Recovery Questionnaire. These two documents are mailed to an individual, or law firm, identified by HMS as the “primary contact” for the decedent within 30 days of the death of the Medicaid beneficiary. This Notice of Intent to File claim Against Estate asserts that the Michigan Estate Recovery Questionnaire must be completed and returned within 14 days, and further asserts that the state is a “known creditor” under Michigan’s probate law. The Notice of Intent to File Claim Against Estate offers the recipient the opportunity to receive an Application for Hardship Waiver. The Application for Hardship Waiver is not provided unless requested, and according to the Notice of Intent, once requested and sent, the Application for Hardship Waiver must be completed and returned within 60 days in order to avoid denial of the requested hardship exemption(s). Attorney Longstreet is encouraging clients who receive a Notice of Intent to File Claim Against Estate to contact his office immediately upon receipt and to direct us as to whether they wish to have our office work with them on the response. Gee & Longstreet, LLP has specialized in Medicaid and nursing home issues for over 16 years. Contact our office to see what options are available if you or a loved one is facing a nursing home/ long term care issue. MR. LONGSTREET CAN BE REACHED AT 269-945-3495 OR rlongstreet@geelongstreetlaw.com GEE & LONGSTREET, LLP 77565101 607 N. BROADWAY • HASTINGS, MICHIGAN Delton Kellogg’s Kenmark Maligat (right) and Bronson’s Taylor Williams battle for control during the first period of their 135-pound consolation final at Hastings High School Saturday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-01-19.pdf d04e972ea18ec54780e0e5df37512790 PDF Text Text Prosecutor’s filing practice questioned Snyder’s leadership working for Michigan Hastings girls get their first victory See Story on Page 5 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 17 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 3 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, January 19, 2012 NEWS Hastings Area Schools to pursue recreational millage BRIEFS Tonight’s Showcase is going gold Gold River Band, a country group from Hastings and Battle Creek, will be featured at the Community Music Showcase Thursday, Jan. 19, beginning at 6:45 p.m. The bi-weekly concerts are at the Thomas Jefferson Hall, 328 S. Jefferson St., Hastiness. Members of Gold River Band include Sonny Moore, vocals; Dusty Rodriguez, drums; Woody Grover, bass guitar; Bill Cummings, lead guitar; and Tom Freridge, rhythm steel guitar. The concerts are free. ‘Annie’ opens this weekend The ever-popular musical “Annie” opens the 17th season for The Revue, the community theater group in Nashville. Performances begin Friday, Jan. 20, and will continue through next weekend. Sold-out matinees have been reported for Saturday, Jan. 21, and Sunday, Jan. 22. Organizers said tickets are available for the weekend of Jan. 27, 28 and 29. Patrons are encouraged to call to make reservations. (Any unclaimed reserved tickets will be sold 10 minutes before curtain.) Under the direction of Bill Reynolds, Annie (played by Maggie Doherty of Hastings) and her orphan friends, will warm the audience’s collective hearts with the familiar songs, such as “Hard Knock Life,” “Tomorrow,” “NYC” and “I Don’t Need Anything But You.” The cast numbers more than 60 people from several surrounding communities. Orphans range in age from 7 to 15. And the show boasts an 18-piece orchestra of local musicians. Show times are: Saturday, Jan. 21 at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 22 at 3 p.m.; Friday, Jan. 27 at 7 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 28 at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., final show Sunday Jan. 29 at 3 p.m. Ticket prices are, adults $10, seniors or students $8, children 12 and under $5. Main Street Theater House is located upstairs at 301 N. Main St., Nashville, across the street from Hastings City Bank. Plenty of free parking is available. Doors will open 30 minutes before each show, and concessions are available. Nominations sought for alumni of the year The board of directors of the Hastings High School Alumni Association is accepting nominations until March 15 for the 2012 Hastings High School Distinguished Alumnus of the Year Award. The award will be presented at the annual alumni banquet, Saturday, June 2, in the high school cafeteria. Nominations must be in printed form and should contain biographical information and reasons why the individual is being nominated. Reasons may include accomplishments, vocations, honors and awards received, community service, organization memberships, personal character and other helpful information. The nominee can be residing anywhere, but must be an alumnus of Hastings High School. The alumni board would like to continue to consider previously submitted nominations, as well as new nominations. The board is asking anyone who has submitted nominations in the past to resubmit again with up-to-date information for the board’s consideration. Send alumnus of the year nomination letters to Donna Brown, president, Hastings High School Alumni Association, 810 Indian Hills Drive, Hastings, MI 49058 or email donnabreown21@sbcglobal.net. by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Hastings Board of Education President Kevin Beck has announced the board plans to ask voters in the Hastings Area Schools district for a 10-year 1.6 mill recreational levy which would generate $750,000 per year. “Hastings has a strong history of co-curricular programs, such as music, athletics, school clubs, community clubs and theater, just to name a few,” said Beck during Monday’s regular meeting of the board of education, which was held at Star Elementary. “Currently, the cost of maintaining the community use of fields (AYSO and HYAA and others) is paid directly from the district’s general education budget. This millage would allow us to return about $750,000 a year to the general fund to continue to fund academic and co-curricular programs.” The board began discussing the possibility of a recreational millage in October 2011. Beck said that since the topic was introduced, there has been a groundswell of support for the district to go forward with the millage request. According to Beck, 1.6 mills would equate to $80 per year or 22 cents per day for the owner of a home with a taxable value of $100,000. Funds generated from the millage could be used to support a variety of non-academic recreational opportunities in the district, such as athletics, fall play, spring musical and more. Beck said that while the money could be used to support the community education and recreation center, which costs the district approximately $86,000 to $100,000 per year, that is not the focus of the millage. “CERC has a $1 million endowment from Pierce Cedar Creek, however; with the cur- rent economic climate, it hasn’t been generating a lot right now,” he said. “But, a committee is being formed to look at ways to make the CERC self-sustaining by increasing its use with other groups and organizations.” “This is one of the few ways ... with the use of what they call a recreational millage, we have the opportunity to increase our revenues so that we can continue to sustain what we have and potentially grow some programs so our school becomes consistently more attractive to individuals who are looking for a school system where they can send their kids.” Board trustee Gene Haas Hastings Area Schools are currently looking at rebuilding its budget. Beck said that while the district would still need to make cuts, the cuts wouldn’t be as deep if voters approve the recreational millage. Board trustee Gene Haas said the State of Michigan has severely limited the ways school districts can increase revenues. “This is one of the few ways ... with the use of what they call a recreational millage, we have the opportunity to increase our revenues so that we can continue to sustain what we have and potentially grow some programs so our school becomes consistently more attrac- tive to individuals who are looking for a school system where they can send their kids,” Haas said. The board will hold a special meeting at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 30, in the multi-purpose room of Hastings Middle School, 232 W. Grand St., to approve ballot language for the recreational millage. The proposed millage would be on the ballot during the Tuesday, May 8, election. “I’m excited that we are going forward with this proposal,” said Beck. “You will hear a lot more about it in the future ... It’s a real positive opportunity for the district.” “We really are excited to hopefully capitalize on some long-term certainty in this time of uncertainty with state funding,” said Hastings Area Schools Interim Superintendent of Schools Michelle Falcon. Anyone interested in assisting with the millage campaign is asked to contact Falcon at the district administration office 269-9484400, or mfalcon@hassk12.org. In other business, the board: • Heard an update from board secretary and personnel committee chair Donna Garrison about the superintendent search being conducted by Barry Intermediate School District Superintendent Jeff Jennette. She said applications are currently being accepted with a closing date of Jan. 30. Garrison said the board is tentatively scheduled to review the applications then, and interviews are tentatively scheduled to be conducted Wednesday, Feb., 17, Thursday, Feb. 16 and Friday, Feb. 17. As of Tuesday, Jan. 17, Jennette said he had received only two applications but had four or five calls in recent days from potential applicants and expected to receive more applications before the deadline. • Gave final approval for the proposed curriculum-related travel study trip by the Hastings High School Science Olympiad team to the Clio Invitational in Clio Jan. 27 through 28; and the high school Youth in Government group to travel to Lansing for the spring conference March 14 through 18. • Accepted the personnel report which contained the following: Recalls — Kellen Deau, part-time high school art teacher; Rebecca Harris, Star Elementary health care I paraprofessional; Nancy Hammond, Southeastern Elementary general paraprofessional; Kerry Nickel, Star Elementary part-time special education teacher; Lisa Pohl, high school English teacher. Retirements — Frederick Hayes, bus driver; Robert Kruko, grounds and maintenance; Lucy Miller, bus driver. Appointments — Darrell Slaughter, middle school head wrestling coach; Kelli Slocum, curriculum council elementary representative; Brad Thayer, middle school assistant wrestling coach. Transfers and reassignments — Brenda Dennie, high school general food service II; Lisa Iberle, high school general food service II; Amy Piper, high school food service assistant cook; Laura Wallace, Southeastern Elementary, general food service I. Return from leave of absence — Michelle Auten, Southeastern Elementary first grade teacher. Leave of absence, Carrie Roe, high school English teacher. Falcon said that because of Roe’s leave of absence, Pohl was being recalled full-time and a long-term sub would be hired at 60 percent time. • Approved the Best Practices Incentive resolution so the district could receive an additional $100 per pupil in state funds. By doing so, the board certified that the school system had complied with the following requirements: employees contribute at least 10 percent of health care costs; the district is See MILLAGE, page 14 Baltimore votes to not report taxes owed High school teacher by David DeDecker Staff Writer Baltimore Township Board of Trustees voted at its Jan. 10 meeting not to notify Eaton County that the township failed to pay 2010 taxes. Township Treasurer Jennifer McKeever said 15 property parcels are in the Maple Valley School District and Eaton County Intermediate School District. In 2010, a special education tax was assessed on those 15 parcels. Eleven of those parcels were mistakenly not charged, amounting to roughly $2,000. McKeever spoke with an attorney from the Michigan Townships Association to see if Baltimore Township could go back and charge the parcel owners for the 2010 special education tax. She was advised the township may only, through the board of review, legally make corrections to a tax bill for the current year and previous year. Since the Baltimore Township Board of Review is currently working on 2012, the previous year is 2011, and 2010 is too late for revision and collec- tion. “At this point we cannot rebill for it,” said McKeever. “To be honest, I made a motion [at January’s meeting] we contact Eaton ISD and see if we can work it out with them. We would send a letter of notification [to Eaton County] and see where it goes from there. I did have one other vote of support [Trustee Chad McKeever], but three other members voted to leave it alone for now. They didn’t want to do anything.” Supervisor Ron Miller, Clerk Penelope Ypma and Trustee Jeremy Miller all voted not to act on the matter. When contacted by the Banner, Miller said he would not talk about the issue, and said to contact the township treasurer for the story. According to Jennifer McKeever, the board’s majority point of view was, “Eaton ISD missed the collection on their end and a letter of notification should not be sent to Eaton County.” McKeever said she did not agree with the vote, and was in the minority who voted to send a letter of notification and work out the legitimate tax owed to Eaton County. douses fight with tea A female Hastings High School teacher used a cup of tea to break up fight that broke out between two male students whose “trash talk” texting escalated into a face-to-face argument which turned into a physical altercation. At approximately 4:16 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 17, Hastings police received a complaint from a parent of a 15-year old student concerning an incident that had occurred a short time earlier at the school. According to the parent, the student had allegedly been assaulted by an 18-year old male student at the school. After interviewing the subjects, officers learned that the combatants had been texting trash talk back and forth until the 18-year-old had confronted the younger student at the school. The two said they had a brief discussion before the fight. During the fight, a teacher who had hap- pened to be in the area allegedly threatened to pour hot tea on the two if they didn’t stop fighting. It is then alleged that the teacher poured hot liquid on the two, resulting in alleged minor burns to the 15-year old. The pair ceased fighting. “We take student and staff safety very seriously and are currently investigating the situation,” said Hastings Area Schools Interim Superintendent Michelle Falcon. The incident is being investigated as two separate incidents — the first being the assault that allegedly occurred between the students, and the second being the alleged pouring of hot liquid on the students. Once the investigation has been completed, it will be forwarded to the Barry County prosecutor’s office for review. The investigation is still active at this time. DeCamp named Executive of the Year by trade publication Douglas DeCamp Douglas A. DeCamp, chairman and CEO of Flexfab Horizons International has been named Rubber Industry Executive of the Year by the international trade journal Rubber & Plastics News, according to a press released issued by Flexfab Wednesday morning. The magazine cited the entrepreneurial management style which permitted DeCamp to start the Hastings-based business and grow it to $117 million in sales and 800 employees in the span of the past 50 years. The citation by RPN reads: “For being such an ethical, down-to-earth man — as well as running a highly successful manufacturer of elastomeric products serving the aerospace, automotive, heavy truck, food, marine, military and other markets — DeCamp has been named Rubber & Plastics News’ 2011 Rubber Executive of the Year.” In July 2011, Flexfab celebrated its 50th anniversary with an open house attended by more than 4,000 employees, family members and the public. DeCamp, who co-founded Flexfab along with his partner, the late Willard Pierce; started in an abandoned furniture store with 7,000 square feet of floor space. Flexfab’s main manufacturing facility in Hastings now has over 150,000 square feet; and has additional manufacturing locations in Nottingham, United Kingdom; Sao Paulo, Brazil; and Dongguan, China. In 2011, a new facility was opened in Grand Rapids. Flexfab’s global presence has made it possible for the company to remain price competitive in today’s global marketplace. Not only is DeCamp an industry leader, he is also involved in his community, having served on the board of directors for several local companies, along with founding and serving on the board of the Barry Community Foundation, a charitable organization that supports scientific, literary and educational programs in Hastings and the surrounding Barry County area. Flexfab and its associates live by the company’s creed which stresses four main points: “Value for customers, quality of life for employees, service for community and benefit for shareholders.” This community-minded organization reaches out to achieve each of these goals and has found continued success in doing so. Flexfab is a multi-national elastomeric engineering company that specializes in the manufacture of products using silicone rubber and other elastomers. Flexfab produces highperformance hose, lightweight ducts, flexible connectors, boots, bellows, sleeves, special shaped aerospace products and more; serving the automotive, heavy duty truck, aerospace, rail, military and broad industrial sectors; as well as the food and dairy industries. �Page 2 — Thursday, January 19, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Falcon speaks of school district challenges and projected deficit Barry County Attorney Magistrate Frank Hillary speaks to Hastings Kiwanis about an efficient court system and savings for the people. Hillary tells Kiwanis members courts are quick and successful by David DeDecker Staff Writer The Barry County Unified Trial Court has gone through many personnel changes over the past year. One of those changes included the hiring of local attorney Frank Hillary as a new attorney magistrate. Hillary, speaking to the Hastings Kiwanis Club Jan. 11, said the hiring of an attorney as magistrate allows several new things to happen in Barry County Courts. He said an attorney magistrate can hear neglect and delinquency cases, which the previous non-lawyer magistrate could not. As an attorney magistrate, Hillary can also oversee small claims. With the help of an attorney magistrate, procedural steps through the justice system are the same, but have proven to be quicker. Waiting to go before a judge can sometimes take an extended period. An attorney magistrate can see smaller, straightforward cases, and free a judge’s docket to concentrate on larger cases, he said. A recommended order is ruled by the attorney magistrate after listening to a case. If the recommendation is not appealed or objected to within seven days on some, and 14 days on others, it becomes the order of the court. Hillary said a majority of the court dockets across the state have a huge backup with an extremely long waiting time. He said the new system in Barry County Courts allows cases to move along very quickly. “The new duties of the attorney magistrate allow the process to be more streamlined,” he said. “They did not need to hire a probate register because one of my other hats is as deputy probate register. Some of the paperwork can now move forward without needing to go before the judge. Certain orders the magistrate can sign.” “Along with the new court system, came a number of updates, including the PolyCom system, which allows arraignments all over the state of Michigan,” said Hillary. An advantage to the new communications system is that defendants do not need to be transported from other areas of the state and can be arraigned on camera from their point of incarceration. The procedure saves money for both the department of corrections and local law enforcement. On a local level, defendants can be arraigned from the Barry County Jail without the need for expensive transport by deputies. “We now have a very manageable system which gets the best representation for the people, with the least amount of delay, and the least amount of money,” said Hillary. “The idea is to make the court as successful as possible, and as fast as possible for the public.” by David DeDecker Staff Writer Michelle Falcon, Hastings Area Schools interim superintendent, mentioned many accomplishments, but said the challenges faced by today’s school district were more prominent, when she addressed the Hastings Rotary Club Jan. 16. “We have had a lot of uphill battles with finances and morale issues,” said Falcon. “But, we really have a lot of great things going on at Hastings schools. We have a very committed community and truly a dedicated staff. These are two points of pride I like to use as an umbrella when we look at any goal setting and meeting the needs of our students.” While speaking of district accomplishments, Falcon first outlined student successes. The Business Professionals of America chapter from Hastings High School took 27 students to regional competition. They brought home 30 medals, and 17 students qualified for the state finals. The elementary swimming program flourished with young students learning to swim and about water safety at the recreation center’s pool. Hastings has redesigned the At-Risk Student program to help, one-on-one, with literacy and mathematics. There are also 21 high school students mentoring elementary students through a new Big Brother Big Sister program twice a month. “I am humbled every time I see how much money and time the community donates to the school system,” said Falcon. The community supported needy students during the holiday season. Hastings schools has 82 homeless students, she said. The number has doubled since Falcon came to Hastings 18 months ago. The schools partner with Pennock Health Services at the middle school level to educate students about diabetes and other childhood health trends. Falcon said the textbooks cannot keep up with current information on health issues. The district has many parents who need help on how to parent. Hastings is starting a mentoring pilot program at Southeastern to help parents know about what to expect, from homework, hygiene and budgeting. “Grading is also a huge issue for grades six through 12,” noted Falcon. “We did not have an aligned or progressive type of grading [system]. We are looking hard at that and how to communicate changes with parents on how it will affect students in the next couple of years.” The schools have written another grant for the successful summer food program. In the summer of 2011, any student up to age 21 could get a free lunch during the week at Southeastern. The program served over 100 students per day. The new grant is written to provide two lunch locations for the upcoming summer. Falcon said the focuses for improvement this year include communication, evaluation, transparency, curriculum, instruction, assessments, data and the building of processes and procedures. “The biggest things on my plate right now, Surprise Your Valentine with ... Valentine Love Lines Hastings Interim School Superintendent Michelle Falcon speaks to Hastings Rotary about the successes of and challenges facing the schools in the near future. and with other schools, are financial concerns,” she said. “We have less that 1 percent fund balance in our account. We have some brutal facts to face. We have a declined enrollment over the past 15 years. Since 2005, we have lost almost 500 students. We have a decline in state aid. And, we know the cost of health and retirement benefits will go up every year.” There are 550 school districts in the state of Michigan, and 40 districts which are under 3 percent in their fund balance, she said. “There is no golden goose,” said Falcon. “We need to tear apart our budget and analyze how we can cut. We face a probable mandated all-day kindergarten. An elimination of the personal property tax. We are looking at a decline of 64 students for next year. We need to replace five school buses. We are looking at at least a $2.3 million deficit.” Falcon said to raise revenue, the district needs to recruit students and she is working on bringing home-schooled students in for a class or two. The other aspect Falcon is work- in The Hastings Banner Give Cupid a helping hand with a love line in The Hastings Banner. Compose your own message on the coupon provided, and mail to The Hastings Banner, P.O. Box B, Hastings, MI 49058. A special column will appear in the February 9th issue. 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Falcon theorized it may also have something to do with being far enough away from metropolitan areas, like Grand Rapids, that the increase in gas prices may have something to do with enrollment decline for Hastings. Parents may have moved closer to their jobs and put children in other districts. Programming is also a factor in students leaving, and Falcon is working on creating more attractive programs in the schools. Currently, the school board is in the middle of a budget re-building process and dissecting where money is spent throughout the district. Falcon said with the help and support of the school board, she will bring in a retired business manager and consultant to look at finances. Calhoun Intermediate School District has offered its finance director to look at the budget and how the school spends its money. “Another set of eyes is critical. To get some outside perspective is very important. We also need to do some projected planning for two to three years out,” she said, noting the previously, only the coming year was considered. Falcon wants to continue building community partnerships, implement the national core curriculum, create and maintain financial stability, increase expectations of how students and teachers treat each other and learn, and give back to the community. On Monday, Jan. 23, Falcon and the Hastings Board of Education will meet the Delton Kellogg Schools and Barry ISD boards to look at a consolidation/collaboration model, and look at the sharing of multiple services for more cost savings. “Everything is on the table,” said Falcon. Need wedding invitations? Check out the large selection at Printing Plus 1351 N. M-43 Hwy., Hastings just north of city limits �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 19, 2012 — Page 3 Chamber of commerce honors 2012 award winners Celebration of the third annual Athena Awards, the presentation of community business honors and the first public event in the new Automotive Heritage Center at the Gilmore Car Museum highlighted Saturday’s annual Barry County Chamber of Commerce dinner. Well over 100 Chamber supporters filled the main meeting hall in the recently completed facility for dinner, presentations and an evening of dancing to the big band sounds of Thornapple Jazz Orchestra, a 17-piece ensemble under the direction of Hastings’ Joe LaJoye that kept toes tapping. “What a great opportunity to celebrate on behalf of the Gilmore Car Museum’s $5 million-plus renovation and expansion of this facility,” said Valerie Byrnes, president of the Barry County Chamber and of the Barry County Economic Alliance. “The significance of this facility is that it brings the Gilmore Car Museum to a year-round operation and provides Barry County a day-in and day-out resource for visiting and for an education, as well.” Byrnes’ remarks preceded the annual presentation of the event’s signature Athena Award to Jan Hartough, recently retired and longtime director with Michigan State University Extension. Receiving the inaugural Athena Young Professional Leadership Award was Megan Lavell, executive director of the Thornapple Arts Council. The Athena Award is intended to honor a Barry County woman who exemplifies leadership and whose own efforts create opportunities in leadership for women in Barry County. Neil Gardner accepts a Chamber Customer Service Award on behalf of Hastings City Bank with the lighthearted reminder that one of the area’s longestserving institutions has been “working on customer service for 125 years.” Megan Lavell winner of the inaugural Athena Young Professional Leadership Award. Jan Hartough is named the third winner of the chamber of commerce’s annual Athena Award. “When I think of the leadership principles embodied in this award, like fostering collaboration, building relationship, giving back to the community and celebrating what’s been accomplished, I think of Jan,” said Carla Wilson-Neil, the 2010 Athena Award winner, in her presentation remarks. “We have such richness amongst the talents and the gifts of the women in this community.” Hartough, who moved to Hastings to take the Extension job in 1987, referred to her Barry County roots in her acceptance speech. “When I started my career here, I never thought I’d be here all these years,” stated the woman who, amongst her many gifts to the community, has been a founder of Leadership Barry County, a development program that has trained nearly 400 leaders in Barry County. “But, whenever I was drawn to opportunities to go away, I would weigh them and would always decide that I wanted to stay because, when you think of leadership, the essence of it is having a vision — and that is what distinguishes Barry County from others.” Lavell, who came to Barry County in 2006 as a reporter for J-Ad Graphics following college graduation, also referred to the quality of community leadership as a reason she has stayed. Accepting a Brick Award, marking the Gun Lake Casino’s opening and its dramatic impact on Barry County business, are Gun Lake Casino CEO John Shagonaby (left) and marketing director Carter Pavey from Chamber President Valerie Byrnes. Three other annual Chamber awards were presented during the evening. Exemplary Customer Service Awards were presented to Norm and Carol Barlow of Barlow Florists, Hastings City Bank, and Pennock Health Services. Receiving the Chamber’s Brick Award in recognition of significant facility development activities were the Gilmore Car Museum, Commercial Bank, and the Gun Lake Casino. Nick Barlow received the firstever Chamber Champion Award for community promotion and active involvement in the community. Sheryl Lewis-Blake (left) CEO of Pennock Health Services, receives a Customer Service Award on behalf of the hospital from Chamber President Valerie Byrnes. Pennock, along with Hastings City Bank, has been a longtime signature sponsor of the annual chamber of commerce dinner. Scott Ommen of J-Ad Graphics is honored for his years of service as a member of the chamber’s board of directors. Scott Ommen, who has been active with the chamber for more than 20 years, was honored for service as a member of the chamber’s board of directors. Byrnes also provided an uplifting report on the Barry Bucks program, the nonprofit gift certificate program in which shoppers redeem Barry Buck coupons at participating merchants. The program also encourages patrons to shop locally. In its inception year in 2008, the chamber recorded the sale or redemption of $13,000 in Barry Bucks. The number grew to $24,000 in 2009, to $38,000 in 2010, and, in the year just completed, to $73,262. “Its purpose is to ensure that equitable commerce is happening in Barry County,” Byrnes told Saturday’s audience. Another reason, as Byrnes noted earlier, for the group to celebrate the evening. Photos by Fred Jacobs New Car Shopping? 2.99% INTEREST 3.363% APR* APR* The Gilmore Car Museum is recipient of the chamber’s annual Brick Award, an honor presented to Barry County businesses that have furthered significant facility development. Accepting on behalf of the museum are (from left) David Hatfield, Michael Spezia and Larry Baum. *Annual percentage rate. Car loan is subject to credit review and approval. Rates are subject to change. A Hastings City Bank checking account with direct deposit and automatic loan payment is required to obtain this rate. Maximum term is 66 months for new (untitled) vehicles only. Contact any Hastings City Bank lender for other rates available. Processing fee is $200. Example: a $20,000 loan at 3.363% APR would have 66 monthly payments of $329.02. Gangsters-for-a-night Nick Barlow (left) and Norm Barlow pose with Valerie Byrnes, chamber of commerce president and emcee of Saturday’s annual dinner. Nick is honored with the chamber’s first Champion Award. Norm and his wife, Carol, are presented with an Exemplary Customer Service Award. 1-888-422-2280 07591048 �Page 4 — Thursday, January 19, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Snyder’s leadership working for Michigan The eagle has landed and is taking off again, but not before McMahon of Freeport is able to run home and grab his camera and take several photos. McMahon said he was driving on Hastings Road just north of M-43 when he saw the eagle. He took the chance of quickly going home to get his camera and was pleased to see that the eagle had not left when he McMahon returned. We’re dedicating this space to a recent photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. We’ll select a photograph for publication each week. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Do you know? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@j-adgraphics.com, or call 269-945-9554. Last week’s photo featured two women looking at fabric. Mary Dawson of Hastings wrote in to say that the lady on the left is Martha Kuhn, her mother, who was the Barry County Home Economics Extension Agent from 1955 to 1974. The other woman is Marjorey Dryer, with Barry County Social Services. “They are looking over fabric that was used to make curtains for the ‘new’ medical facility (now Thornapple Manor) that was constructed in the mid-1950s,” wrote Dawson. “ The many women of the Barry County Extension groups undertook the project to make the curtains for the new facility. I recall my mother remarking many times about the generosity of the women in the county Extension groups and about the many projects they undertook to better their communities. I’m not sure where the picture Have you Do you recognize this room or any of the people? Is this inside a school, church or other building that has since been remodeled? What can you tell us about this photo? may have been taken. However, my mother and Ms. Dryer did have offices in the court- house, so it may possibly have been in one of the areas of the courthouse basement.” met? As a 12-year veteran driver with the Barry County Transit System, Marshall “Marsh” Pierson always looks forward to the two runs each week that renew his soul: the Tuesday and Thursday trips with local high school students to the Gilmore Garage Works program at the Gilmore Car Museum in Hickory Corners. The program is designed to provide adult mentorship and beginning automotive restoration and preservation skills to teens, some of whom find school challenging. But Pierson sees something far beyond and far deeper in the young people he has come to befriend, to counsel and to mentor. “I am them,” smiles Pierson, 68, who dropped out of high school at age 17 to join the U.S. Marine Corps. “On the bus, they are not the young people they’re supposed to be to get into the Garage Works program. They just have fun with each other, and, when I have my regular passengers on the bus, the regular passengers joke with them, too.” Marsh has been helping people and communities since he left the Marines in 1967. After obtaining his GED through the American Embassy in Lisbon, Portugal, he earned a criminal justice degree at Kellogg Community College, graduated from the Police Academy in Lansing, and then worked security positions in area schools and with Barry Township, as chief of police. He retired as a bus driver for the Veterans Administration. For that dedication to others, Marsh is a Barry County “bright light.” If you know of other lights who make Barry County shine, call us at 269-945-9554. My first car: A 1959 Austin Healy Sprite Car I’d like to own: A 1952 MG TD Person I most admire: The person who influenced me the most was my mother. She taught me faith, color-blindness (racial equality), compassion and patience. There’s only one color: Marine Corps Green. Advice I’d give to a young person: Be honest. Best advice I ever got: It comes from an old Ricky Nelson song, ‘You can’t please everyone, so you got to please yourself.’ Sounds a little egotistical, but it’s meant to mean that you can’t worry about the people you can’t please. Greatest gift received: When we first got married (38 years ago), my wife (Laura) got me a set of hand power tools. I learned a lot with them. If I were president: I would try my darndest to get the two political parties to work together. I’m really upset by electing people to go to Washington and having them just get corrupted. The greatest thing about Barry County: Its natural resources. We’re the only northern county in southern Michigan. If I won the lottery: If it was large enough, I’d start an educational foundation primarily for the descendents of my maternal and paternal grandparents and for the descendents of my wife’s maternal and paternal grandparents. When I grow up, I want to be: Well remembered. Just a year ago, our newly elected governor, Rick Snyder, was preparing to give his first state of the state message to Michigan residents. I attended the event last year to hear firsthand the governor’s plan to reinvent Michigan. Snyder said then, that he wouldn’t kick the can down the road, but would put together a plan to build a better Michigan. Snyder warned, “that all 10 million of us have a role to play in the reinvention of Michigan.” Making Michigan the best state to live, work, do business, play and prosper depends just as much, Snyder said, on what each citizen, business or community does as what the governor or his team and the legislature does. Wednesday, in his second state of the state address, Snyder outlined his plans for 2012 and reviewed his initiatives during his first year in office. Snyder was frank with an accounting of his first year, but also reflected his optimistic approach to governing. The governor articulated his approach to customer service, along with an analysis of his sweeping changes to the state tax code and education. The former businessman focused more on implementing policies along with managing the executive branch, while focusing on making Michigan more business-friendly. Monday, the Rev. Al Sharpton and others held a demonstration at the governor’s home in Superior Township, near Ann Arbor. Sharpton and other ministers and civil rights activists held a protest over Michigan’s new law making it easier for the state to take over financially struggling communities and school districts. Organizers maintain that the new law seems to target black communities. Snyder said the law isn’t racially motivated. The measure was put into place to make it easier for state government to review and determine what actions are necessary when a school or community’s financial situation is in jeopardy. Already in his first year in office, Snyder managed to make the state more business friendly by signing the elimination of Michigan’s Business Tax which will reduce the tax on corporations by as much as $1.5 billion. To fill the gap, the state passed legislation that will reduce the earned income tax credit and homestead property tax, along with adding a small tax on public worker pensions and lowered the tax-exempt threshold for private-sector pensions. Michigan officials project the state could take in $457 million more in revenue this year than was expected by state lawmakers as they and the governor finalize plans for the 2012 budget. According to the state’s revenue estimating experts, the state had roughly $1.2 billion left over at the end of the fiscal year Sept. 30, 2011, nearly a half-billion of that was expected. “This is good news,” said John Nixon, the state’s budget director. “This is the first time in many, many years where we’ve run a surplus.” Is it good business for state officials to start battling where the money should be spent, or should they follow a more conservative approach by saving the money for a rainy day fund to fall back on? The governor will unveil his plans when he makes his budget proposal available next month. Already, some people in the Democratic Party are calling on state leadership to make the additional funds available for school districts, college tuition and other programs where cuts were made to solve last year’s budget woes, along with making Michigan more competitive. The Michigan Municipal League, which represents local governments, wants the state to restore funding for police, fire, libraries and other programs that got the ax due to the state’s revenue reductions. Michigan lawmakers should avoid the temptation to spend any savings by taking a wait-and-see attitude as the budget unfolds in the coming months. Recently, Lt. Gov. Brian Calley was in Hastings to discuss his administration’s strategy for the coming year. During his speech, Calley reminded local citizens of the growing long-term debt that Michigan taxpayers are responsible for — something that elected officials like to forget because paying down old obligations isn’t connected to a constituency of voters — yet paying old debts makes sense for an organization looking for long-term outcomes. Regardless how you look at it, Snyder took on a troubled economic situation and, as a former CEO, has transitioned Michigan government with a focus on the future and sound economic planning, ending up with a balanced budget and some leftover savings – not bad for the first year. Chamber holds annual meeting at Gilmore museum’s new Heritage Center Over the weekend, more than 100 Chamber members and their guests attended the organization’s annual dinner. The event is held to celebrate the organization’s accomplishments during the past year, while at the same time to recognize community members, as well as chamber members for a job well done. The event was held at the Gilmore Car Museum’s new Heritage Center, modeled after a historic factory, blending a modern amenities with nostalgia. The new structure will allow the museum to expand its season to a year-round facility, connecting two former show barns offering museum-goers the opportunity to view a large selection of historic vehicles. What began nearly 50 years ago as a place for the Gilmore family to enjoy its historic cars has become one of the largest displays of automotive collections in the nation — and with continued growth, could become the largest automotive museum in the world, right here in Barry County. Museum representatives were honored with the Barry County Chamber of Commerce’s special Brick Award for the outstanding expansion project. Look in this week’s Banner for a complete story on the annual dinner and award recipients Fred Jacobs, vice president, J-Ad Graphics Write Us A Letter: Marsh Pierson The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of for-profit businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 19, 2012 — Page 5 Prosecutor’s filing practice in question by David DeDecker Staff Writer A motion was made by defense attorney David Gilbert in Barry County Circuit Court Jan. 11 to strike the witness list and dismiss the James Kohn case due to late filings of paperwork by the office of Barry County Prosecutor Tom Evans. Judge Amy McDowell heard the motion and ruled. Former Hastings Area Schools bus driver, Kohn, 47, was bound over in September on four counts of criminal sexual conduct. Kohn allegedly engaged in sexual activity on numerous occasions with a girl under 13 years old. The incidents did not involve students on his bus route. “Basically, your honor, we are asking for one of three things in this matter,” said Gilbert. “First, we are asking the court to strike the list of witnesses filed by the prosecution in this matter. Secondly, we ask the court to dismiss the case. The third thing we ask is for the court to dismiss this case with prejudice.” Gilbert went on to state the reason for the three motions was the lack of proper conduct on the part of the prosecutor’s office. “My client is faced with numerous life offenses in this matter,” said Gilbert. “Going through the history of this case, the original information was filed with the court sometime in October, but was not served on the defense until December. When it was served, there were defects in the information itself. The information failed to comply, or at least the prosecution failed to comply. “We served our demands for discovery on Nov. 28 and still have not received all the information. They have given us a notice of witnesses, but did not give us the addresses. I am assuming the prosecution will argue the addresses are in the police reports and we can get them from the reports. “He [Evans] did give us a list of proposed exhibits he plans to introduce. As far as this case is concerned, he had a duty, No. 1, to comply within 21 days. He did not do that.” McDowell asked Gilbert whether he received copies of the exhibits, or just an exhibit list. “Just an exhibit list,” replied Gilbert. “This is a child sexual abuse activity, and I don’t believe they want to release the pictures. I do believe Mr. Evans was making them available for me to look at his office.” Gilbert said he found it hard to believe the prosecution was not aware they were not complying on time. In one of Gilbert’s legal briefs, he said fairness requires that to convict someone of breaking the law, the law should be followed by those enforcing it. The brief goes on to read “In this case, failure to comply with the statute appears to be endemic, if not intentional.” “It was clear, your honor, that when they filed, they knew they weren’t filing within 30 days,” said Gilbert. “Then you look at their pre-trial statement that is also attached. At the bottom, it says ‘the prosecution has submitted Hastings Area Schools staff development next week Monday, Jan. 23, Hastings Area School System instructional staff will be trained in many instructional strategies. These sessions will include technology training, data analysis, curriculum review, department collaboration and inter-level transitions. We are also very concerned about safety. Our teachers will be instructed on the location of automatic external defibrillator machines in our buildings. Athletic Director Mike Goggins and athletic trainer Lisa Gebhardt will be instructing staff members on the use of these devices. In the past few years, much attention has been brought to our schools about the need for automatic external defibrillator devices in all buildings. Recently, at a high school volleyball tournament in Northport, the mother of one of the girls competing collapsed amongst the crowd of spectators. A paramedic in attendance immediately recognized this as a cardiac arrest, and according to prin- What do you cipal Patrick Lamb, sprinted outside and up the hill to the nearby health center, and returned with an automatic defibrillator and shocked the woman’s heart back to life. In the opinion of health professionals involved, this mother would have died if an automatic external defibrillator hadn’t been close to the school. Also, in Fennville last winter, tragedy struck a young basketball player as he died as a result of a heart attack during a game. As a result, many schools have purchased this equipment and trained staff in the event of such an emergency. Also, legislators have discussed the creation of laws requiring AED’s in public buildings. While these incidents are rare, our staff will be instructed where and how to use this equipment. If you have further questions you may visit the American Heart Association website www.heart.org for information. think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website, www.hastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question ... and don’t forget to use our new feature, leave us a comment. For this week: Gov. Rick Snyder delivered his second state of the state message to the Legislature and the electorate last night in Lansing. After his first year office, do you think Gov. Snyder doing a good job? q q Last week’s question: Friday, at the semi-annual state revenue estimating conference in Lansing, state leaders will be discussing how to allocate a projected state tax surplus of some $400 million. If that surplus is realized, should it be designated to restore cuts made due to past shortfalls or saved toward a projected $1.8 million budget shortfall for the next fiscal year? 50% Spend on program restorations 50% Save for next fiscal year Yes No The Hastings Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Casey Cheney Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Helen Mudry • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 a list of witnesses they propose to offer at trial — see notice of which is attached to the information.’ There is nothing attached to the information. Then underneath that, ‘counsel will file a copy of this statement with the court and defense counsel prior to pre-trial hearing.’ This is dated Dec. 27, 2011. The pre-trial was October of 2011. “Out of all these cases, 19 percent of them are done correctly, that’s just not right.” David Gilbert, Attorney “In their demand of me, they demand that we comply within 14 days. We [legally] have 21 days to comply. But, perhaps they want 14 days because 21 days may not give them enough time prior to trial.” Gilbert told the court the issue in this case is whether prosecution failed to comply with established filing laws, and he asked what should to be done about it. “If they want to amend information, they are supposed to go to court and request a leave to amend,” said Gilbert. “In this case, they have not done that; they just filed their notice of witnesses. We are asking that notice to be stricken because they have not done it properly. “Then we get down to ‘good cause.’ The prosecutor says there is good cause for not filing. The prosecutor argues it was a bad weekend; that he had a lot of things going on the week before. That belays the fact that they knew it was supposed to be attached information when it was filed with the court back in October.” Gilbert said he reviewed all of the cases that have been filed in Barry County over the course of the past year. “This is not something that happens occasionally,” he said. “There were 276 felony cases on file for 2011. I could not find around seven of them. That leaves 269. Out of the remaining cases, I actually looked at 186 cases which were pled out. That left about 83 cases to go. Out of 83 cases, you have five prosecutors. Saying that somehow they don’t have the time to handle 83 cases just isn’t right.” Although Gilbert’s statistics were not confirmed by the Banner, staff from the county clerk’s office informally confirmed Gilbert’s contention that the prosecutor’s office habitually files documents late. Gilbert told the court one of the four felony cases the prosecutor’s office has tried since 2009 was that of Justin Malik. Malik was found guilty of killing an off-duty Barry County sheriff’s deputy with his car. Gilbert told the judge the notice of witnesses was filed late in that case, and the prosecution failed to comply with the law. He said the case was originally set for trial June 15, and the prosecution filed a notice of witnesses on May 19 — less than the 30-day rule. “Currently, we have Christopher Tomczyk set for trial for Feb. 6,” said Gilbert. “As of yesterday [Jan. 10] no notice of witnesses has been filed in that case. Robert Harris, had been set for trial on Sept. 12, and notices were filed in that case on Aug. 25. That still was not within 30 days of the first trial date. “The attorney general who appears in Barry County had four cases in this county. On each and every one of them, she complied with the mandates of the statute. She has 100 percent compliance.” Gilbert said the statistics he supplied to the court show that the prosecutor has not complied in 276 cases. In the other 79 cases, according to Gilbert’s statistics, the prosecution complied with filing requirements 19 percent of the time. “To say somehow they had good cause — no,” said Gilbert. “I am asking the court to at least strike the witnesses. If the prosecution has no witnesses, they can decide whether or not they want to dismiss the case and reissue. We are asking this court to dismiss the case with prejudice. “I realize this is a capital case, and it is a rather extreme penalty to the people for failure to comply with the law, but this is something that is endemic in this prosecutor’s office. Out of all these cases, 19 percent of them are done correctly, that’s just not right. “What is the prejudice? How many defendants are faced with this same circumstance? Luckily, most of the people in Barry County plead out and they only go to trial once or twice a year on a felony case. But, of those cases, do all these people need to file a motion to get the prosecutor to comply? My client is paying me to represent him. Why should he be paying me to file a motion to make sure the prosecution is doing his job?” Judge McDowell said, “As the defense attorney, you could face a grievance or a malpractice issue [for not filing on time] which the prosecutor does not as they sit there and enjoy governmental immunity.” Gilbert added, “The bottom line is this is a total lack of following the law. It is a total lack of following court rules. Every time the court rules are not followed, somebody has to file a motion. It is causing the same issue for every defendant that comes into Barry County.” Evans then stood and said, “Your honor ... certainly in a world where many of the things plead at pre-trial, it became a customary practice, in this court, to not always attach a list.” “You mean you made it a practice not to attach a list?” questioned McDowell. “Your honor, I’ve never, in the 10 years I have been here ...” said Evans. “I am asking because I thought you said the court made it a practice, but that wouldn’t be correct,” McDowell explained. “Your honor, we have a modified trial bench; things move quickly,” said Evans. “There is no arraignment day, per se. But, there still is the statute of 30 days. “I believe I have shown, No. 1, good cause. As the court is aware, that was a very hectic period, and I was doing motions and things on that very case,” he said. “Also, I was sick before that. Also, [the rule] says ‘timely filed.’ The date it was due was a holiday. This was due on Christmas, and it was filed the first day after Christmas. “So, I guess I would say the rule has not been broken, but if it has, anything we can do to remedy that is fine,” added Evans. “I don’t know if the court wants to hear about other cases, but it is not endemic. There were numbers thrown around. “Generally people know when there is a plea, and they don’t file unnecessary documents,” Evans concluded. Gilbert empathized that the prosecutor had been ill and the holidays can be a busy time of year. “If they were going to comply, they would have complied with something, but they didn’t comply with anything,” Gilbert said. “Not just in this case, but all the other cases that have been there too ... that’s over 80 cases.” McDowell directed her comments to the prosecution, “Well, I know what my order said, and it was not complied with. It’s unfair to Mr. Gilbert, [for your office] not to comply with the rules that are laid out for discovery and the timing for discovery.” Gilbert then asked Evans, “How do I prepare for a case when you wait until the last minute to give me things that should have been given to me months before?” After defense and prosecution had presented their arguments to the court, Judge McDowell said the question is whether there was good cause and whether the defendant is prejudiced by that. “Like I said, it is completely unfair to the defendant and Mr. Gilbert, or any other attorney, not to have the information within the given time frame. He has got a job to do,” said McDowell. “He can be grieved. He can be sued. That doesn’t apply to you [Evans]; you have governmental immunity. Nobody can sue you or grieve you. Mr. Gilbert is the one trying to do a job here, and to do a proper job for his client, he needs these rules to be complied with. “The only saving grace for you [Evans] is these witnesses are listed in the police reports. I agree with Mr. Gilbert’s point that does he need to assume every single thing in the report and every single witness, including witnesses from 1999, are going to be called and does he have to contact all those witnesses because you had not given him a list of witnesses you intend to call until Dec. 27? As he has pointed out, there are no [witness] addresses listed either.” McDowell said, looking at the documents, the defense’s request for a response to his motion also was not received within the proper time. “That was not complied with either,” she said. “It certainly seems like there is a history. That was not complied with and neither were several other things here. However, striking the list of witnesses is a very severe sanction. And, there is a long list [of witnesses] here. “I don’t find there is good cause, I can tell you that,” continued McDowell. “Lack of planning is not good cause. As to not providing the information you are supposed to provide, I need to decide if it is overly prejudicial to the defendant. That’s why I am interested in what witnesses you knew about Mr. Gilbert. What witnesses were listed in the police report? But, certainly you shouldn’t have to sift through those. “You have four assistants, Mr. Evans, to help you. This seems to be a chronic problem,” she said. “You have to understand the position Mr. Gilbert is in. I understand you were ill and the Christmas holiday, but you do have four people to help you. That’s why they are there, so you don’t have to take it all on yourself. But, that’s your decision. “Mr. Gilbert, because it is a very heavy sanction to have a witness list stricken and because it was not overly prejudicial to your client, the court is denying your motion to strike the witness list as well as dismissing the case.” The Banner was informed Tuesday that Kohn pleaded guilty on two counts of criminal sexual conduct, with two counts being dismissed. Sentencing is scheduled for Feb. 23 before Judge McDowell. County commissioners look for right road to future by Doug VanderLaan Editor Barry County Commissioners could have used a crystal ball and a bit of stardust Tuesday as they wrestled at their committee of the whole meeting with two issues poised to dramatically shape Barry County’s future. Lengthy discussion on a revision to its farmland preservation ordinance and on a wireless antenna request that could enhance county broadband service produced only a motion to table both discussions until further information and data could be gathered. “This may not seem important now, but it sure will be in 15 to 20 years,” said Commissioner Jeff VanNortwick of additions and proposed amendments to the county’s farmland preservation ordinance adopted in 2002 and amended in 2005. “When this is in place, perhaps it will slow down the speculation — and land speculation, in particular, is the enemy.” Proposed revisions to the ordinance were presented to commissioners for review and approval by Paul Wing and Chuck Reid of the county’s agriculture preservation board. Primary to the changes is the addition of open space preservation to the original document, allowing the county to acquire development rights and the placement of an agricultural conservation easement on farmland or of a conservation easement on open space. Commissioners pushed Wing and Reid on the timing of the open space addition to the ordinance, questioning whether 2012 market circumstances apply to a document originally adopted in 2002. “I’m a Realtor,” acknowledged Commission Chair Craig Stolsonburg, “and there hasn’t been any development in 10 to 20 years. Houses are not being built, so why would a developer be interested in filling open space now?” Proponents, however, reminded Stolsonburg that times change. Larry Neil, who chairs the agriculture preservation board, spoke from the audience. “We’re asking you to look down the road,” said Neil, “when it might be 2000 again. The year 2012 might not be important now, but, See ROADS, page 11 ✯ ESTATE AUCTION ✯ SATURDAY, JANUARY 21ST @ 10:00AM LOCATION: From Hastings, take M-37 south 1 mile to M-79, east 2 miles to Barry County Christian School (2999 McKeown Rd.). Seating and heat. ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES: Library table; Drop leaf table w/chairs; Robbins dining room table; Bedroom suite; Oak serpentine dresser w/mirror; Toys; Singer treadle sewing machine; Oak children’s chairs; Child’s table; Doll house; Cast iron bank; 2 jugs - #2 & #5; High chairs; Framed prints; Variety of dishes; 3 panel mirror; Stands; Records; Books; Games; Glass bells inc. Fenton & Limoge; Figurines; Planters; Last Supper tapestry; Coins; Fishing baits (some in original boxes); Knives; Post cards; Jewelry; Watches; Pins; 1940’s comics; 2 Union Pacific RR calendars; Archway Cookie wall clock; 4 swords; Paper items; Clay marbles & 1 Victorian; 2 barn pulleys (1 marked 1879); Key Wind Luck Strike wall clock; Lobster advertising wall plaque & more! HOUSEHOLD: Dressers; Elec. stove; Washer; Nice sofa; Dishes; Tables & chairs; End tables; Lamps; TV; Entertainment center; Tools; Books; Weathervane. Estate of Elmer & Ruth Collar of Alto & 2 Smaller Estates. EXPECT SURPRISES!! Go to www.auctionzip.come #23371 for pictures. Kendall Tobias, Auctioneer 1-269-945-5016 �Page 6 — Thursday, January 19, 2012 — The Hastings Banner HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, Jan. 19 — Pizza and Pages meets to discuss Scorch Trial by James Dashner, 3:45 to 5 p.m.; Movie Memories celebrates British authors with “Pride and Prejudice” (1940), 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 20 — preschool story time has fun with winter, 10:30 to 11 a.m. Monday, Jan. 23 — ‘Fancy Nancy’ Tea Party, 6 to 7:30 p.m. (call library for reserva- tions) Tuesday, Jan. 24 — winter reading club for adults continues; toddler story time enjoys music, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.; open chess club, 6 to 8 p.m. Call the Hastings Public Library for more information, 269-945-4263. Worship Together… Area Obituaries Rosella (Rosie) Margaret Fountain Mabel L. Williams Patricia June (Calkins) Greenfield 77565154 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Paul Osborn, Minister of Music; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service, Jr. & Sr. High Groups. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. HASTINGS SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH 904 Terry Lane, Hastings (or on the corner of Starr School Road and Terry Lane.) Phone: (269) 9452170. Pastor Michael Wise. www.hastingssda.com Sabbath (Saturday) School 9:30 a.m.; worship service 10:50 a.m. Mid-week meetings informal study and prayer service, Wednesdays 7 p.m. Youth ministry clubs, Adventurers for pre-school to 4th grade students and Pathfinders for 5th grade students through high school, meet on the first and third Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. and first and third Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. respectively. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:304:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. CHURCH OF THE LIVING GOD A full gospel church. 1240 W. State Rd., Hastings. Pastor Doug Davis. 269-948-9740. Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study 6 p.m. Sunday School and Youth Group for all ages. Come and worship the Lord with us! . QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. ORANGEVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH 6921 Marsh Rd., 2 miles south of Gun Lake, Plainwell. Phone 269664-4377. OrangevilleBaptist. org. Pastors Dan Bowman and Adam Parmenter. Sunday - 9:45 a.m. Adult Classes Offered: 1) Book of James; 2) Book of Jude; 3) Young Adult Class. Children, teen and adult Sunday School classes; 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Worship; 5:30 p.m. Junior and Senior High Word of Life Clubs. Tuesday - 9 a.m. Men’s Prayer and Bible Study. Wednesday - 6:30 p.m. Pre-school through 6th grade Word of Life Gophers & Olympians. Prayer & Bible Study - 7 p.m. 6 p.m. Teen Word of Life. Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University - 13 weeks - January-March. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Phone 269-721-8077. Minister Ryan Wieland 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Praise Worship Service; Noon alternate weekends Youth Group Tuesday. Covenant Prayer Group, Wednes-day 6:30 p.m., Choir Practice. Thursday 7 p.m. Praise Band Practice. 2nd and 4th Thursdays at 7 p.m. Christ’s Quilters. Friday 6:30 p.m., CPRChrist’s Plan for Recovery (meal served). For more information small groups, special evnts or if you have a prayer requst, call the church office and see postings on WEB site: www.countrychapel. umc.org. SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-795-2370 and the rectory number is 269-948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/ andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616-731-5194 or -517-8521806. HASTINGS REFORMED CHURCH “A Historic Reformed Community.” Sunday morning services begin at 10 a.m. Meeting at the Barry County Commission on Aging building, 320 W. Woodlawn Ave., Hastings. Pastor: Peter Adams. 616690-8609 padams@juno.com. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 9:15 Contempor-ary Worship, 10:30 a.m. Refreshments, 11 a.m. Traditional Worship. Sunday School for PreK-2nd and 3rd-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. The Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-9482673 for additional information. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Pastor of Senior Adults and Visitation, Don Brail. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. for children, youths and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Senior High Youth Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesday MidWeek: 6:30-7:45 p.m. Pioneer Clubs, age 4th to 5th grade, and Junior High Youth Group, 6th-8th grade. Thursday: 10 a.m. Senior Adult Discussion and 11:30 a.m., lunch at Wendy’s. FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 9 a.m. Worship Service - Traditional; 10 a.m. Sunday School for All Ages; 11 a.m. Worship Service Contemporary; 6:00 Youth Group. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot.com. Thursday - 9 a.m. Men’s Bible Study; 11:30 Women’s Brown Bag Bible Study; 6:30 p.m. Choir Rehearsal. Friday 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday - 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday - 5 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 5 p.m. Pickleball; 6 p.m. NAPS Kindergarten Meeting. Fiberglass Products 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 HASTINGS, MI - Patricia June (Calkins) Greenfield, age 89, of Hastings, died Wednesday, January 11, 2012 at Thornapple Manor in Hastings. She was born in Maple Grove Township, Barry County, on October 11, 1922. She was the daughter of Kenneth B. and Cecil (Wilson) Calkins. Pat graduated from Hastings High School in 1940 and attended Davis Business College in Toledo, Ohio. Patricia Married Maurice Greenfield on September 26, 1942 in Hastings. She was employed at the Livingston County Press in Howell, Barry-Eaton District Health Department, and also drove school bus for Hastings Area Schools. Pat was a member of the Hastings Baptist Church since 1955. She sang in the choir, was a Sunday school teacher and a leader in the Girls Club at the church. Patricia was preceded in death by her husband, Maurice and a sister, Gloria Cantrell. Pat and Mauri had three children, Kenneth Maurice (Linda) Greenfield, Gene Lawrence (Sandra) Greenfield, and Jody Sue (Stan) Stockham all of Hastings; her grandchildren, Brandon (Tiffany) Greenfield, Angela Greenfield, Nicole (Brad) Haight, twins, Tara Stockham and Patti (Nick) DeLine, Theodore Greenfield, and Tracy Stockham; eight greatgrandchildren, Lucas and Cole, Maddox, Elsie, Susie and Claire, Lilly and Lincoln; a sister, Susan (Ned) Wernick of Pensacola, FL. Memorial contributions may be made to Thornapple Manor, 2700 Nashville Rd., Hastings, MI 49058 or Love, Inc., 305 S. Michigan Ave., Hastings, MI 49058. A memorial service and visition was held Saturday January 14, 2012 at the Hastings Baptist Church, 309 E. Woodlawn Ave., Hastings. Pastor Dan Currie will be officiating the service. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc. Please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message to the family. Lori S. Raber Wallace R. Barton GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Sunday, January 22 - Worship at 8:00 & 10:45. 9:30 Sunday School. Holy Communion Every Sunday! Jan. 22 - Men’s AA @ 7:00. Jan. 23 - Adventurers Bible Study @ u:00. Jan. 25 - Wordwatchers Bible Study @ 10 a.m. 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 9452645, fax 269-945-2698. Pastor Amy Luckey http://www.discovergrace.org This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Lauer Family Funeral Homes Rosella (Rosie) Margaret Fountain was taken into the arms of the Lord on January 16, 2012. She was born April 30, 1914 in Massillon, OH to John and Elizabeth Schwartz. Rosie moved when she was young to Jackson, MI where she graduated from St. John's High School in 1931. She married the love of her life, Clifford Fountain in Jackson. Rosie and Cliff never gave birth to any children of their own, but they enjoyed being active in raising three generations of her sister Rita's children. She was a dedicated hospital laundry employee of Mercy Hospital in Jackson until they closed and transferred to WA Foote Memorial Hospital until her retirement after 35 years of service. Rosie spent her final decade of her life in Hastings where she enjoyed cheering for Notre Dame Football, playing bingo, with her niece Becky (Brisboe) Snider, and attending family parties. Her favorite activity was to watch her nephews Trent and Mitchell Brisboe participate in Saxon football, wrestling, and baseball. She was welcomed into the Hastings community and became known as everybody's "Aunt Rosie". Rosie was preceded in death by her parents John and Elizabeth Schwartz; all of her brothers, sister, and their spouses Paul (Vivian) Schwartz, Rita (Vincent) Lodise, and Roy (Bea) Schwartz. She is survived by multiple nieces and nephews that were all touched by her caring. She became a integral part of the Mark and Laura Brisboe family especially during her years in Hastings. Special thanks to River Ridge Assisted Care Home, Razor's Edge Hair Salon, and Hasting Saxon Athletics for their acts of kindness and care. Memorial contributions can be made to St. Rose of Lima Church, 805 South Jefferson, Hastings, MI 49058 or Hastings Athletic Boosters, PO Box 344, Hastings, MI 49058. Funeral mass will be 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 21, 2012 at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Hastings, with visitation at the church from 10-11 a.m. Arrangements by Desnoyer Funeral Home in Jackson. 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 DUTTON, MI - Wallace R. Barton, age 81, of Dutton, passed away at his home on Sunday, January 15, 2012. He served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. Surviving are his wife of 53 years, Peggy; children, Robert (Deborah) Barton of Middleville, George Barton of Hastings, Karen Hiller of Kentwood, Christine Schut of Kent City, Elaine Smith of Dutton, Michael Barton of Dutton, Kenneth (Tina) Barton of Lowell; 14 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; brothers, Walter (Mary) Barton of Wyoming, William Barton of North Carolina; and sister, Martha (James) VanEllen. Because of allergies, the family requests that in lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Wallace be made to Spectrum Health Hospice. The family will greet friends on Saturday, January 21, from 2 to 5 p.m. at Stroo Funeral Home, 1095 68th St. SE., Grand Rapids. www.stroofuneralhome.com. A memorial service for Lori S. Raber will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 21, 2012 at Thornapple Valley Church. A luncheon will be served following the service. GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. CELINA, OH - Mabel L. Williams, age 92, of 125 S. Lake St. in Celina, OH, passed away at 10:55 p.m. on Monday, January 9, 2012 at Miami Valley Hospital Dayton, OH. She was born on September 20, 1919 in Piqua, OH to the late Charles and Mary (Murphy) Chaney. On October 22, 1938 she married Lewis Williams, who died January 30, 1987. Mabel is survived by sons and daughtersin-law, Mike and Nancy Williams of New Bremen, Pat and Mary Williams of St. Marys; daughters and sons-in-law, Sonnie and Rev. Gerald Gallaway of Delton, Sharon and Mike McKirnan of Celina, Susan and Robert Sullivan of St. Marys; 17 grandchildren; 36 great grandchildren; four greatgreat grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband; brothers, Virgil Chaney, Robert Chaney and Ralph Chaney; and her sister Reva Sanders. Mabel attended the Hillsdale United Brethren Church in St. Marys. Funeral services were held on Friday, January 13, 2012 at the LehmanHogenkamp-Dzendzel Funeral Home in Celina, OH with Rev. Gerald Gallaway officiating. Burial followed in Mercer Memory Gardens in Celina. Condolences may be made at LHDfuneralhome.com. Memorial contributions may be made to the Call Food Pantry of Celina, OH. SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN All about retirement by Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Social Security is as American as baseball and apple pie. Not everyone likes apples or baseball games, but almost every American who reaches retirement age will receive Social Security retirement benefits. In fact, 96 percent of Americans are covered by Social Security. When you work and pay Social Security taxes, you earn “credits” toward Social Security benefits. If you were born in 1929 or later, you need 40 credits (10 years of work) to qualify for retirement benefits. However, the amount of your benefit is determined by how long you work and how much you earn. Higher lifetime earnings result in higher benefits. In addition, your age when you retire makes a difference in your benefit amount. At full retirement age, you receive the full benefit which is then reduced if you file early. Just as you can choose an early retirement and get a reduced payment, you also can choose to keep working beyond your full retirement age to take advantage of a larger payment. The decision of when to retire is an individual one and depends on a number of personal factors. To help you weigh the factors, we suggest you check out the online Retirement Planner at www.socialsecurity.gov/retire2. You may want to consider your options by using our Retirement Estimator to get instant, personalized estimates of future benefits. You can plug in different retirement ages and scenarios to help you make a more informed retirement decision. Try it out at www.socialsecurity.gov/estimator. When you decide to retire, the easiest and most convenient way to do it is right from the comfort of your home or office computer. Go to www.socialsecurity.gov where you can apply for retirement benefits in as little as 15 minutes. In most cases, there are no forms to sign or documents to send; once you submit your electronic application, that’s it. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You can write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email at vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 19, 2012 — Page 7 Retired teacher switches subjects to bridge building by Doug VanderLaan Editor As a 35-year teacher of English and language arts at Thornapple Kellogg Public Schools in Middleville, Gerald Stein grew accustomed to turning the pages of compositions and book reports. Today, in the freedom of retirement, Stein has found renewal — and some ability — in turning playing cards. “I learned how to play bridge in high school and then got hooked up with the game through a graduate student during my years at Central Michigan University,” says Stein, 65. “Professor West, a chemistry teacher, was the coach of our team, and I remember going to places as far as Bowling Green University for games.” Unlike many bridge aficionados who drift- ed away from the game after learning it at an early age, Stein and his wife, Regina, looked at bridge as a way to introduce themselves to the new community of Middleville when they arrived in 1969 — and then nearly collapsed from their exposure to the game. “I found out that Hastings was a really big bridge-playing town, and I told Regina that we should join a group at St. Rose Church as a way to get to know people,” Stein chuckles today. “Well, we had also already joined the Middleville Reading Club which was doing the same thing. “The St. Rose club had a big tournament that lasted from September to May and you played 10 matches — five of which you had to host in your home and five in the homes of other people. It was a great way to meet new couples, but we found out that a lot of couples were older and went to Florida for the winter. “They would all come home at the end of April and, in order to get the 10 matches played in one year, we had to play seven nights of bridge in seven nights.” Overexposure never waned the enthusiasm of the Steins — it fueled it. Today Gerald is an accredited bridge teacher, certified through the American Contract Bridge League. He’s taught the game privately, to community education classes in the area, and this week begins a stint as a bridge columnist for the Hastings Banner. He’ll also be leading a nine-week introductory class to held at the Regional Manufacturing Training Center in Battle Bridge in Barry County: A New Year’s resolution by Gerald Stein How are your 2012 New Year’s Resolution’s going two or three weeks into the New Year? If you are like most folks, your New Year’s Resolutions went out with the Christmas wrap. The problem with New Year’s Resolutions, as I see it, is that they are not fun. Who wants to diet? Who wants to exercise? Of course, we all know that we should do these things, but come on, do we ever make it past the third week of the New Year with those same old resolutions we have made the past ten years? New Year’s Resolutions then should be fun, and I have a fun resolution for you to consider for this year. It is not too late to start this resolution. You are just in time, in fact. This 2012 is the year that you should consider learning how to play bridge, as fun an activity and a New Year’s Resolution as you will ever find. Bridge, you say? Isn’t that a complex and difficult-to-learn card game? Let me share with you some ideas before you dismiss what could be your best learning activity for 2012. Do you know what a deck of cards is? Do you know that there are four suits in a deck of 52 cards? Do you know that there are 13 cards in each suit of Clubs, Diamonds, Hearts, and Spades? See how much you already know. I will bet that you answered all three questions with a resounding “Yes, of course!” Do you know how to play a number of card games? Do you know how to play Euchre? Pinochle? Old Maid? Hearts? If you are still saying yes to even one of these, then you are a candidate to become a new bridge player in Barry County. Let’s look at Euchre for a minute. Now Euchre is a relatively simple card game consisting of two parts: a bidding part with a partner, and the play of the hand. It moves along rapidly with each hand probably taking no more than a minute or two from start to finish. Five cards are used in a shortened deck, and there are a few eccentricities with Right Bowers and Left Bowers, but that is just one of the fun aspects of the game. Now if you play Euchre or other bidding and playing card games, then you have the basic notion of playing a bridge hand. Instead of using a shortened deck of 24 cards as in Euchre, bridge players use all 52 cards for each hand. A partner is essential for playing bridge, so four people are needed for each hand of bridge. Bridge also has a bidding part and a playing part. Because there are 52 cards instead of the shortened deck as in a Euchre deck, each hand takes slightly longer to bid and play the hand. Eight or nine minutes are about average for most bridge hands. The bottom line is if you play cards, then learning bridge will be just an extension of what you already know. What about the complex part of bidding that you have heard so much about? Like any card game, there is a learning curve that begins with the basics and moves to higher levels as you gain experience. The fun thing about playing bridge is that you are always learning something new about the game or about yourself. Am I too old or too young to learn how to play bridge? This may be another question that has you stumped. Fear not! Snowbirds in Florida in their 60s, 70s, and 80s have enjoyed learning new tricks about playing bridge. High school students in our area have learned how to play bridge; students in middle schools have learned how to play bridge. My six-year old grandson knows how to play the basics of bridge. He loves it. A group of ladies play together in Kalamazoo at the Kalamazoo Bridge Club. Their claim to fame? All of them are in their 90s. They feel playing bridge keeps them young, mentally sharp, and gets them out socially as often as they wish. So, age is no hindrance to learning how to play bridge. Where do I start my 2012 fun New Year’s Resolution? I am glad you asked that one as I have a number of answers for you to consider. First, beginning bridge classes are offered in surrounding areas much of the year. It so happens that a “Beginning Bridge in the 21st Century,” a basic beginning bridge class, begins soon in Battle Creek through the Institute for Learning in Retirement’s Winter Program. This class will be an introduction to playing bridge through a nine-week course every Monday morning from 10 a.m. to noon. While specifically for beginners who have never played bridge before, the class also serves as a place to refresh your bridge memory if you played long ago in another time and want to get back into playing bridge. Making new friends, getting out each Monday for a trip to Battle Creek, fun playing cards: Now that is the ideal New Year’s Resolution! Resolve to make it happen in 2012. Next week’s column: We’ll explore a Blackwood Convention hand and provide you some opening bidding tips as we introduce the game whose history can be traced back to the 16th century. Retired Thornapple Kellogg teacher Gerald Stein fell in love with bridge as a high school student and is passing his passion on to players through classes and a special column debuting today in the Hastings Banner. Creek on Sundays from 10 a.m. to noon, beginning Jan. 29. Reservations are still being taken at 269-948-9500 ext. 2804 or by calling Stein at 269-795-3713. Stein’s passion is to help build the game to the high level it once enjoyed in nearly every community in America. “It’s a game that is always evolving,” marvels Stein of the one card game that combines intellect with good fortune. “It’s still played with 52 cards, and you still have hearts, diamonds, clubs, and spades — but there are always new conventions and new ways of doing things.” Stein concedes that bridge, like many table games, may be fading from the radar screens of younger people, but he’s quick to point out the game’s advantages and the ACBL’s response to the challenge. “The ACBL has 165,000 members and [the continued popular of the game] is a worry of theirs. If you want new players, you have to teach them; you have to welcome them. Today, there are a lot of bridge software packages and there’s even an app for the smartphone. “We want to encourage kids to play. We want them to have choices rather than just texting all day — and there’s not much violence in bridge.” Stein points out the game has perhaps the greatest ambassadors who play as bridge partners and who have targeted interesting younger people in the game: Bill Gates and Warren Buffet. Though the Steins have yet to meet or to match wits against that stellar duo, they have met many people throughout the country in their loving pursuit of the game. Each week, the couple drives 40 miles to a bridge club in Kalamazoo and recently participated in a masters point tournament in Louisville, Ky., that attracted 10,000 players for a 10-day event. They stay apprised of table talk, technical tips and national news from 3,200 bridge clubs and 1,110 tournaments held in North America through Bridge Bulletin magazine. “Frank Stewart (a leading bridge expert) says that, of the 165,000 ACBL members, only 1 percent of them are interested in playing competitively,” says Stein. “My interest is in sharing something I like to do with others.” Vicki L. Shumaker MA, LMSW, CAADC Clinical Social Worker vickishumaker@att.net Meadow Run Holistic Counseling Holistic Therapies for body, mind and spirit, for all ages PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Weight Issues, Domestic Violence, Individuals, Families, Couples Massage/Body Work Yoga for Adults & Children Gettysburg to the end of the war, is scheduled to go on exhibit in 2015. The “Plowshares into Swords” exhibit comes to life Saturday, Jan. 21, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., as members of several re-enactment groups will be stationed in the galleries to talk about the lives of Civil War soldiers. The exhibit — which opened in April 2011 and is on display through Feb. 5 — is a major project by staff at the Michigan Historical Museum to honor the sesquicentennial of the U.S. Civil War. The display focuses on the fact that Michigan was young, comparatively unpopulated and largely agricultural when the War Between the States broke out in April 1861. The soldiers from Michigan had far more experience with guns as tools than as weapons. One part of the display to note is a drum that belonged to Wilber F. Dickerson, a member of the 8th Infantry, who was from Hastings. The Michigan Historical Museum is located inside the Michigan Library and Historical Center, 702 W, Kalamazoo St., Lansing. For more information, call 517- 373-3559 or visit www.michigan.gov/museum. The second part of Michigan’s tribute to the Civil War era, covering the period after CONCRETE STOP LEAK AFFORDABLE Epoxy Pressure Injection Stop Leaking Basements from the INSIDE Tim, a local company 77565308 No Digging - No Excavating - Lifetime Guarantee Over 7 Years Epoxy Experience • Res. & Com. 269-758-3312 INCOME TAX TIME IS HERE AGAIN! 77565291 Medical Marijuana Town Hall A Panel Discussion Tuesday, January 24th • 7-9 pm Utility companies asked to defend smart meters The Michigan Public Service Commission has launched an investigation into the deployment of smart meters by electric utilities. Regulators say the probe follows concerns raised by electric customers and several municiplaities about the use of these devices that can provide communication about eletric use to utilities in real time, such as when power goes out. The commission is requiring regulated electric utilities to submit by March 16 information including their plans for deploying smart meters and the cost of doing so and the potential savings by using the meters. It also wants to know what kinds of information they plan to gather, how they plan to protect customers and whether they will allow customers to opt out of the program. Interested customers have until April 16 to file comments. The commission will make recommedntaions by June 29 Licensed & Insured References Available Over 24 Yrs. of Basement Construction & Waterproofing Time to visit... K.A. Mueller Accounting • Professional, Economical & Personal TAX & Accounting Services 77565312 221 South Jefferson, Hastings, MI Phone: (269) 945-3547 www.kamuelleraccounting.com ® The Barry County Commission on Aging 320 W. Woodlawn Ave. Hastings Amy McDowell Mike Callton Ken Beyer 5th Circuit Court Judge State Representative Medical Marijuana Advocate Michigan Testing Authority Paid for by the TCB Fund, P.O. Box 676, Nashville, MI 49073 77564841 Civil War exhibit comes to life FREE Consultation & Estimates! ALSO EGRESS WINDOWS / MOLD REMEDIATION 77565328 The bill before the Republican-controlled Indiana General Assembly would make it illegal for labor contracts to require employees to pay union dues. The measure, backed by Gov. Mitch Daniels, has prompted mass protests by union workers and a walkout by Democratic lawmakers. Proponents of right-to-work legislation say freeing industry from cumbersome labor rules and negotiations would help attract and keep employers. But with labor drawing its lifeblood from membership fees, union officials see right-to-work as a direct attack on organized labor. No wide-ranging right-to-work bills have been introduced in Michigan yet, but there is a growing expectation that could change soon, despite the reluctance of Gov. Rick Snyder to address the issue. The Michigan Department of Transportation last week awarded federal Transportation Enhancement grants to eight projects in seven Michigan counties. Among the recipients is the Ceity of Plainwell, which will partner with MDOT to make streetscape improvements along M-89 from the Mill Race Bridge through the downtown area to the M-89 bridge over the eastern branch of the Kalamazoo River. Streetscape improvements also will be made on South Main Street and North Main Street, through downtown, from Chart Street to the North Main Street bridge over the Kalamazoo River. Amenities include decorative streetlights, trees, landscaping, planters, decorative sidewalks and crosswalks, benches and trash receptacles. The streetscape work will be paired with road reconstruction and bridge replacement projects. The project budget is $518,148, including $374,519 in federal TE funds, $93,629 from MDOT, and $50,000 from the city. Licensed / Insured / Local Call Scott 517-290-5556 • 877-448-1548 77565302 Right-to-work battle being eyed in Indiana Plainwell to get Supporters and opponents of making Michigan a right-to-work state are closely streetscape watching Indiana’s lawmakers debate the issue and gearing up for a possible battle in improvements Lansing this year. 269-945-8806 450 Meadow Run Suite 400 Hastings, Michigan 49058 �Page 8 — Thursday, January 19, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of by Elaine Garlock After at least three weeks with no funerals, the Koops Funeral Chapel has multiple funerals this week with the death of Harold Gillette Jr. of Ionia and Barbara Myers of Woodland. The local historical society met last Thursday with a larger than anticipated attendance. The unlikely topic of early saloons drew much interest. By the end of the evening, there was a long list of former bar and tavern and saloon owners and the names of their establishments compiled. This was likely the first time in the town’s history that such information had been collected. There was very little available when the town’s history was written in anticipation of the nation’s bicentennial or the town centennial. Stories abounded Thursday with lots of laughter about some of the extreme conditions related. There were also several stories of the prohibition years and the home breweries and stills maintained by lawbreakers attempting to assuage their thirst for alcoholic beverages. The first beer garden after the repeal of prohibition belonged to a wellknown lady who ran a restaurant. The organization most vehement in opposition to use of alcohol was the Women’s Christian Temperance Union. The county genealogy society met Saturday with at least 30 present. Some of the visitors came especially to hear attorney William Davis of Portland relate stories of the railroads in Ionia County. He quizzed his audi- ence about each of them, their entry points into the county and their exit with the many stops as the lines crossed the county. One such rail line never had a stake driven nor a rail laid. It would have come from Sunfield, crossed Sebewa Township, to service Hubbardston and Matherton and would have ended at Elm Hall on the Montcalm-Gratiot County line. The road bed was prepared as far as Carson City. Part of the old rail bed is still seen at Grape Street in Portland. There were many books available for perusing, along with patches, posters and maps. Miniature rail cars were on the display. The crowd lingered to ask questions of Davis. Refreshments were served and provided by Patricia Blood, Lori Fox and Doris Feasel. Next month’s speaker will be Saranac’s Bruce Chadwick with the story of a Civil War prisoner who survived the horrors of the infamous Andersonville Prison run by the Confederates. The society’s book on Korean War veterans will soon be going to the printers. The Lake Odessa Area Historical Society Board of Directors met Monday. They voted to purchase several hundred brochures to be placed in welcome corners ran by the Michigan Department of Transportation. The society has been given many household items, including furniture from a nearby family estate and also many items. Another gift was a pair of photographs of the Jordan family reunion of 1924 and a county GAR monument with its members pictured. Read The BANNER every week! Copies conveniently available on newsstands throughout the Barry County area. EDWARD JONES Don’t play politics with your investment decisions While the election season heats up, you will hear more and more promises, claims and counter-claims from the candidates. As a citizen, you may or may not enjoy this “political theater,” but as an investor, you might be concerned over all the talk about taxes, Social Security, Medicare and other financial topics. Will you need to adjust your savings and investment strategies? If so, how? Before you think about adjusting your investment strategy in anticipation of any actions coming from Washington, keep a couple of facts in mind. First, few campaign promises become reality. And second, due to our system of government, radical shifts in direction are difficult to implement — which is why so few of them occur. Still, we may see some smaller-scale — yet not insignificant — changes in the near future. In light of this possibility, what investment decisions should you make? Here are a few suggestions: • Consider owning investments that are taxed in different ways. No one can predict what will happen with income tax rates or the tax rates that are applied to capital gains and dividends. Consequently, it may be a good idea to seek “tax diversification” by owning investments that are taxed in different ways. For example, when you sell appreciated stocks, you pay capital gains taxes, whereas interest payments from bonds will be taxed at your individual tax rate. And it’s always a good idea to take advantage of tax-advantaged vehicles, such as an IRA and your 401(k) or other employer-sponsored retirement plan. • Stick with quality. It’s a good idea, when owning stocks, to invest in quality companies with diversified businesses. These companies are usually less dependent on a particular government program, and they typically have a global reach, so they may be better able to handle any changes implemented in Washington. • Stay focused on your long-term goals. Politicians come and go, and our political parties seem to take turns holding the reins of power. Yet your long-term goals — such as college for your children, a comfortable retirement and the ability to leave a legacy to your family — don’t really change. By realizing that you are largely responsible for achieving your goals, and by following an investment strategy that’s suitable for your individual risk tolerance and time horizon, you can make gradual, but still meaningful, progress toward those goals — no matter what’s happening in Washington. • Review your strategy regularly. With the possible approach of changes in tax policies and in government programs that can affect your retirement security, you’ll want to review your investment strategy regularly to make sure it’s still on track toward helping you meet your objectives. As part of this review, you may want to seek out more “taxsmart” investment opportunities, while always looking for ways to supply the asset growth you’ll need to enjoy the retirement lifestyle you’ve envisioned. Aside from voting for the candidates who best represent your interests, you may not have much influence over what goes on in Washington. But by “electing” the right moves to help meet your goals, you can have plenty of control over your investment strategy. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 28.90 -.01 AT&T 30.25 +.49 BP PLC 44.24 -.15 CMS Energy Corp 21.75 unchanged Coca-Cola Co 67.35 -1.99 Eaton 48.94 +1.20 Family Dollar Stores 53.83 +.03 Fifth Third Bancorp 13.74 -.11 Flowserve CP 105.79 +.52 Ford Motor Co. 12.02 +.22 General Mills 40.77 +.44 General Motors 24.20 +.96 Intel Corp. 25.04 -.55 Kellogg Co. 50.09 -.51 McDonald’s Corp 100.55 +.85 Pfizer Inc. 21.95 +.01 Ralcorp 86.36 -.43 Sears Holding 36.75 +6.29 Spartan Motors 5.12 +.07 Spartan Stores 17.80 +.63 Stryker 52.01 -.25 TCF Financial 11.07 -.19 Walmart Stores 59.85 +.81 Gold $1652.00 +20.52 Silver $30.96 +.19 Dow Jones Average 12,482 +20 Volume on NYSE 754M -36M • NOTICE • REGISTRATION NOTICE TO THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF THE COUNTY OF BARRY COUNTY DELTON KELLOGG SCHOOLS Notice is hereby given that any person who qualifies to register to vote who is living in the following Townships and is not already registered to vote may register with their respective Clerk no later than January 30, 2012 THE LAST DAY TO REGISTER, to be eligible to vote in the Regular Election to be held on February 28, 2012. Hours for January 30, 2012 are listed below. REGISTRATION WILL BE ACCEPTED OTHER TIMES BY APPOINTMENT BY CALLING YOUR CLERK PENNY YPMA BALTIMORE TOWNSHIP CLERK 3100 E. Dowling Rd, Hastings MI 49058 Phone: 269-721-3502 Hours: 9:00 am -4:00 pm JENNIFER GOY ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP CLERK 7350 Lindsey Rd, Plainwell MI 49080 Phone: 269-664-4522 Hours: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm DEBRA KNIGHT BARRY TOWNSHIP CLERK 155 E. Orchard St, Delton MI 49046 Phone: 269-623-5171 Hours: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm JILL OWENS PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP CLERK 10115 S. Norris Rd, Delton MI 49046 Phone: 269-623-2664 Hours: 9:00 am–12:00 noon & 1:00–5:00 pm LINDA EDDY-HOUGH HOPE TOWNSHIP CLERK 5463 S M43 Hwy, Hastings MI 49058 Phone: 269-948-2464 Hours: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm JANICE C. LIPPERT YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP CLERK 284 N. Briggs Rd, Middleville MI 49333 Phone: 269-795-9091 Hours: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm JUNE P. DOSTER JOHNSTOWN TOWNSHIP CLERK 1815 Lacey Rd, Dowling MI 49050 Phone: 269-721-9905 Hours: 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm I, Susan VandeCar, Treasurer of Barry County, Michigan, hereby certify that as of December 28, 2011 the record of this office indicate that the total of all voted increases over and above the tax limitation established by the Constitution of Michigan, in any local units of government affecting the taxable property located in County of Barry is as follows: By Barry County: Comm On Aging Thornapple Manor Transit Park 911 .5000 mills .2100 mills .2500 mills .2259 mills .9816 mills 2011-2014 2011-2025 2011-2014 2011-2016 2011-2014 By Baltimore Township: Library .3000 mills 2011-2012 By Barry Township: Fire Police 2.0000 mills 2.0000 mills 2011 2011 By Hope Township: Road Fire/Cemetery 1.0000 mills 1.0000 mills 2011 2011 By Johnstown Township: Library Fire Road .3000 mills 1.0000 mills .5000 mills 2011-2012 2011-2013 2011-2013 By Orangeville Township: Road 1.5000 mills 2011-2012 By Prairieville Township: Road Police Fire Added Fire .9087 mills .8174 mills .8174 mills .5000 mills 2011-2012 2011-2012 2011-2012 2011-2012 By Yankee Springs Twp: Fire .5000 mills 2011-2014 By Allegan RESA By Barry ISD By Kalamazoo RESA By Kalamazoo Valley CC Enhanced/Op/Debt Enhanced/Op/Debt Op/Debt 4.1217 mills 1.9522 mills 3.3316 mills 2.8135 mills continuous continuous continuous continuous Date: December 28, 2011 77565179 Susan VandeCar, Treasurer, Barry County PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the following will appear on the ballots: Presidential Candidates for the Republican Party Presidential Candidate for the Democratic Party Voters must request either a Democratic or a Republican Ballot. For the Delton Kellogg School District Only, voters may request a ballot without presidential primary so they may vote on the millage proposal only. THE FOLLOWING PROPOSAL will appear on all ballots the Delton Kellogg School District: DELTON KELLOGG SCHOOLS OPERATING MILLAGE RENEWAL PROPOSAL EXEMPTING PRINCIPAL RESIDENCE AND OTHER PROPERTY EXEMPTED BY LAW 18 MILLS FOR THE YEAR 2012 Full text of the ballot proposal may be obtained at the administrative offices of Delton Kellogg Schools, 327 North Grove Street, Delton, Michigan 49046, telephone: 269-6239246. An application for an absent voter ballot may be applied for any time before 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 25, 2012. Please contact your Township or City Clerk for further information. NOTICE OF PUBLIC ACCURACY TEST Notice is hereby given that a Public Accuracy Test for the February 28, 2012 Election will be conducted by the clerks of the above name townships on the voting equipment pursuant to MCL 168.798 at the addresses noted above on the following dates: JANUARY 31, 2012 AT 9:00 A.M. AT HOPE TOWNSHIP HALL 5463 M-43 HWY, HASTINGS MI 49058 Townships participating in the January 31, 2012 date: Baltimore Township, Barry Township, Hope Township, Johnstown Township and Prairieville Township. FEBRUARY 2, 2012 AT 8:30 A.M. AT THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP HALL 200 E MAIN ST, MIDDLEVILLE MI 49333 Townships participating in the February 2, 2012 date: Orangeville Township and Yankee Springs Township. The Public Accuracy Test is conducted to demonstrate that the program and the computer that will be used to tabulate the results for the election have been prepared in accordance with law. QUALIFICATIONS TO VOTE Citizen of the United States At least 18 years of age on or before February 28, 2012 Resident of Michigan and the township/city where you are applying to vote. *************************************** Persons with special needs, as defined in the Americans with Disabilities Act, should contact the Township Clerk. Persons who are deaf, hard of hearing or speech impaired may place a call through the Michigan Relay Center TDD#1800-649-3777. YOU MUST BE REGISTERED TO QUALIFY AS A VOTER! Pamela A. Jarvis, Barry County Clerk And a little child shall lead them – with soap by Dr. E. Kirsten Peters Little kids are amenable to learning new habits — generally much more so than those of us who are set in our ways because this isn’t our first rodeo. That’s why it’s sometimes more effective to teach children health science information rather than to do outreach aimed directly at their parents. That’s part of the background to the Global Soap Project. It’s a project that rests on some simple science long ago worked out by biologists and medical researchers. The basic fact is that many types of infections are spread through contaminated water and dirty hands. Microbes can flourish in such spots, particularly in places like crowded refugee camps or in poor nations. The Global Soap Project is a program with two basic components. The first is to collect “gently used” bars of soap from hotels — soap that otherwise would be discarded. The pieces of soap are reprocessed in Georgia and shipped to nations like Haiti and Uganda where poverty is rife and health and sanitation facilities are few. The second prong of the program is to teach children in developing nations to use the soap to wash their hands before eating and after using the toilet. Children accept the lessons — as trusting little kids the world around do — and if they establish hand-washing as a personal habit, it likely influences others in their households. Hand-washing is a simple yet key approach to combating a lot of water-borne illness, such as cholera. For a variety of different reasons, in some places around the world hand washing is just not a pattern of conduct for many people. In many places, it’s a difficult habit to establish in part because a bar of soap can cost a day’s wages. Simple but basic hand-washing habits are one of the best ways to combat diseases that flourish where sanitation is poor — conditions that affect a staggering 2.4 billion people, according to the World Health Organization. As I read about the Global Soap Project the other day, I thought about how much I take for granted in my life. A bar of soap beside the bathroom sink, warm water to wash with, anti-bacterial soap in the shower, and so on. When I travel, I also take for granted the little bars of soap the hotel provides me. According to a news report from CNN, a hotel maid named Fatoma Dia is one person involved collecting scrap soap. She works at a Hilton hotel where she simply tosses little-used bars of soap into a collection bucket as she cleans rooms. Her hotel in total accounts for several hundred pounds of soap collected each month. The soap redistribution project has included work in Haiti. Especially after the earthquake of January 2010, many Haitians have been living without what we’d recognize as adequate sanitation facilities, both at home and in refugee camps. Cholera has often dogged the people of Haiti. A total of more than 400,000 cases have been reported since the disease reared its head in October of 2010. Basic hygiene — like washing hands with soap and water — can make all the difference in terms of limiting transmission of disease in crowded places. CNN reported on one project in Haiti that’s been aimed at changing kids’ habits. A Port-au-Prince school teaches its children to wash their hands with soap and water using a jingle with these words: “Good morning, water! Good morning soap! Good-bye microbes!” Obviously some punchiness has been lost in translation, but the simple yet useful idea gets through to me as I sit here in a nation that takes pure water and soap for granted. I wish Dia and her co-workers the best in collecting soap that would otherwise be thrown out. Sometimes simple things matter the most of all — like giving little kids (and their parents) in the developing world a chance to avoid water-borne diseases. Dr. E. Kirsten Peters, a native of the rural Northwest, was trained as a geologist at Princeton and Harvard universities. Follow her online at rockdoc.wsu.edu and on Twitter @RockDocWSU. This column is a service of the College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences at Washington State University. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 19, 2012 — Page 9 History of Barry Township recalled, part I The Dec. 22, 2011, Banner included an account of a pioneer Christmas by William Willison Hampton. The following week, featured in this column was an obituary, of sorts, on Hampton’s wife, Laura Rosila Colton. A relative of the Hampton’s, genealogist Gordon Mitchell then brought to the Banner staff’s attention the following piece, which appeared in the Aug. 29, 1968, Banner as part of Harold D. Burpee’s ‘Fresh Out of the Attic’ column. ***** by H.D. Burpee In one of the Banner scrapbooks I found this most interesting write-up on my own township, Barry. I found out a lot of things I never knew before, and I presume a lot of you folks familiar with Barry Township will also be enlightened. History of Barry Township and personal recollections Written for the annual meeting of the Barry County Pioneer Society, June 5, 1897, by the late W.W. Hampton. Mr. President, old pioneers, ladies and gentlemen: In presenting this paper of the early settlement of the township of Barry, I am satisfied that it is deficient in many things. Time has so far elapsed since Barry was settled, that a very few of the original settlers are left, and as I did not have their assistance, they being so far away, I have written this paper entirely from personal recollections. I became a resident of Barry June 28, 1837, coming from Allegany County, N.Y., with Uncle Sam Willison, who located on sections 23 and 24. His family consisted of himself, Aunt Eliza, Elias, Samuel R. and myself. S.R. Willison still lives on the old farm; Elias owns a farm in Barry, but lives in Augusta, Kalamazoo County. We left York State the 16th day of May, 1837, for Michigan. Our outfit consisted of covered wagon, two yoke of oxen, one cow, what clothing, bedding and other articles for family use we could stow away in the wagon and still leave room for the family. Out outfit would not have been complete without the tin oven lashed to the back of the wagon, always ready for use as soon as camp was pitched. A fire built, the oven was brought forward. Aunt had her kneading board and soon had a shortcake the size of the drippin pan made and ready for the oven. We had plenty of milk from our cow; our churn was handy to strain the milk in night and morning, and the motion of the wagon through the day would gather the butter so we would do our churning as we journeyed along, and had good rich milk for our short-cake, as well. We had a very pleasant time coming to Michigan, except three days in the Maumee’s swamp: if it had any bottom we really found it. In the three days we only went 31 miles. With us came the Widow Bowker and family consisting of her son Asa, a young man, her mother, who was 84 years old and seemed to enjoy the trip just as much as a girl would; a nephew and a niece, both young people, came with her. She settled in Oshtemo, Kalamazoo County, but afterwards became the wife of Elder Moses Lawrence, of Barry. We arrived in Barry June 28, 1837. [Michigan was accepted into the Union Jan. 26, 1837, just five months and two days prior.] Our nearest neighbor was Ambrose Mills who lived in a log shanty with his wife on Section 28, some two and a half miles from us. Uncle James Willison came in October of the same year, 1837, from Ohio and located on Section 24 near us. He had a large family, two of the boys are still living in Barry, the only daughter, Libbie, is living in Castleton Township, the wife of John Gutchess. In 1837, there wasn’t a road in the township of Barry. We made the roads as we came to need them, and did not pay much attention to lines. All followed Indian trails as much as possible. There was an Indian trail running from the Indian settlement of Gull Prairie, which we found ran across uncle’s land. So we found we were on a much traveled road. It ran past us to the north around Fair Lake, through Baltimore and on to the Thornapple River. As late as 1846 there wasn’t a road from Cedar Creek or a house, or as much as blazed trees through to Hastings. Aaron Fargo was the first settler in the township of Barry, coming in the spring of 1835. Elder Moses Lawrence and his brother- in-law, Aaron Fargo located their land on Section 27 and 28, stopping at Yorkville, Gull Mills then, while building their house, Fargo came a day or two ahead of the Lawrences, thus being the first settler in the township. Zephney Barnes came the same summer, locating on Section 21, L. Ellison on Section 20 in 1836, John Marshall, a single man, located on Section 21, doing some work on the place but was taken sick and died before he came into possession. Robert Marshall now owns the place. While John Marshall worked on his land the summer of 1837, he boarded with Samuel Willison. Samuel Case located on Section 19, and Daniel Cross on Section 30, in 1836. From 1836 to 1939 the following settled in Barry: Silas, David, Warren and Elijah Bowker, brothers, located on Section 1; John Bunnell on Section 1; William Willison on Section 22; Wells Byington on Section 28; george Jones on Section 28; J. Barber on Section 28; S.C. Hall on Section 28 in 1836. Mr. Huff came in 1835 and settled a little south of Elder Lawrence, located a good farm on Sections 33 and 34. His family consisted of himself, wife, daughter and two sons. They all died of the fatal and terrible sickness that visited the little settlement in 1838, excepting Mrs. Huff. [*Jerusha Lawrence, listed as the wife of Moses Lawrence, is buried at the East Hickory Corners Cemetery. She was born Aug. 18, 1786, and died Sept. 7, 1838, age 52. Source: Barry County genweb.] The first death in the township was Mr. Cook on Section 22, in the spring of 1837. He had just commenced to cut timber for a barn, lodging his first tree and, in getting it down, was caught and killed. Rev. Calvin Clark conducted the funeral services. The summer of 1838 was a sad time for the little settlement in the vicinity of Hickory Corners, on account of the terrible scourge that visited them. Out of the little community there were, in a very short time, 16 deaths, from eight families. Elder Lawrence lost his wife, also Aaron Fargo. There were four deaths in the Huff family, the oldest son died first, the father died on Friday, the other son on Saturday. Sunday friends gathered at the house; Isaac Otis, myself and others put them in their coffins, and they were taken to Gull Corners for burial, Rev. Calvin Clark conducting the funeral. The daughter died a few days later, leaving the mother alone, and she soon returned to the East. Supervisor Ambrose Mills died about the same time. These deaths were all grown people, the fatality among the children was sad indeed. So many were sick that it was impossible to get help; almost every one had the argue or chill fever, and some that could help were afraid to go near the sick or dead. When Mr. Mills died, four of us went to his house and helped to put him in his coffin and buried him under an oak tree near the house. Otis and I went five miles to reach Mills’ place. He was only sick 48 hours. I became a member of Mr. Otis’ family in October 1837, and the summer of 1938 they were all sick but myself, with argue or chill fever, Mrs. Otis being sick for a long time. I escaped until the 20th day of August when the argue caught me, and I vowed that I would leave Michigan as soon as I could get away, as soon as my contract with Mr. Otis had expired. During the sickness of 1837 and 1838, Dr. Uriah Upjohn was our physician, and it seemed as if he must be sustained by some supernatural power, for he was called upon day and night to attend the sick. He came to Michigan in 1835, locating first in Ross Township, then in Richland, Kalamazoo County. He brought with him a rugged English constitution which lasted him through to old age, he having passed away last fall [1896] at the age of 88 years. During the sickness I have mentioned, Dr. Upjohn attended all whom he could, but many were taken, and so suddenly and violently, that they were beyond help when he came. The fatal disease was called “black tongue.” I suppose now it would be called diphtheria. Dr. Upjohn was nine miles away, and in many cases there was no one to go for him, and the victim would pass away without seeing a doctor. The doctor’s ride was so extended that he could not attend all calls, it was said, strike a circuit 30 miles around from his residence, and it would only cover his ride. Samuel Case came in 1836, locating on Section 19. Mrs. Case died in the fall of 1838 with congestive chills. Rev. Slater, of the Indian Agency of Gull Prairie, conducted the funeral services. Captain John Brown came in 1836 and located on Section 6 near the present site of Delton on the farm now owned by Mr. Gwin. The first township meeting was held in the spring of 1836 at the house of C.W. Spaulding. C.G. Hill was elected supervisor and Orville Barnes, clerk. At that time, Barry Township included the whole county in one assessment district. In the fall of 1836, three commissioners were appointed to do the county business: C.G. HIll, Capt. Brown and W.P. Bristol. Their principal business, I believe, was issuing wolf bounty certificates and transacting such other business as is now done by the board of supervisors. In the winter, the commissioners divided the county into four voting precincts or townships: Barry, Hope, Orangeville and Spaulding (now Prairieville), constituting one township. In the spring of 1837, Ambrose Mills was elected supervisor, and re-elected in 1838. He died in that year, and at a special election to fill the vacancy caused by his death, Salmon C. Hall was elected. His opponent was Capt. Brown. The whole number of votes was 15, of which Brown received 7, Hall 8. Our nearest post office was on Gull Prairie, one mile north of Gull Corners. It was called Geloster; the postmaster was Colonel Barnes. The office was eight miles from our settlement, and it was quite a little walk to go for mail, the round trip being 16 miles, rather more than a Sabbath’s days journey, for these trips were usually made on Sunday. Then we paid 25 cents for a letter. I remember sending a letter home to New York State. I wanted to send $25 and took the letter out to the post office so the postmaster would see it mailed with the money, but the little transaction cost me 50 cents extra. I had two bills, $20 and $5; the letters when were rated by the piece, and since I had two bills and a letter, I was charged 75 cents. If I had used an envelope, it would have cost me another 25 cents. Envelopes then were not used, and the older [people] present will remember how we used to wafer our letters together. (To be continued) Give the gift of NEWS! Send friends and family a gift subscription to The Hastings BANNER! To subscribe, call us at...269-945-9554 HOPE TOWNSHIP BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF HOPE, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the following is a summary of an Ordinance, being Ordinance No. 79, which was adopted by the Township Board of Hope Township at its meeting held on January 9, 2012. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 2.1. This section amends Section 2.1 of the Hope Township SECTION I. Zoning Ordinance entitled “Definitions” by the addition of a definition of “ACCESSORY DWELLING” and the amendment of the existing definitions “DWELLING, SINGLE-FAMILY” and “DWELLING, TWO-FAMILY”. SECTION II. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 8.2. This section amends Subsection B of Section 8.2 of the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to minimum side and rear yard requirements for non-conforming lots of record. SECTION III. AMENDMENT OF ARTICLE XIV. This section amends Article XIV of the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance by the addition of a new Section 14.8 to allow accessory dwellings (i.e., a secondary dwelling unit intended and used for limited or seasonable occupancy established in conjunction with and clearly subordinate to a single-family dwelling located on the same parcel) as a special exception use in the “AR” Agriculture and Rural Residential, “RR” Rural Residential and “RL” Single Family Residential Lake zoning districts, subject to various standards and regulations contained in this section. SECTION IV. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 17.2. This section amends subsection “L” of Section 17.2 of the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance so as to list accessory dwellings as a special exception use in the “AR” Agriculture and Rural Residential zoning district classification. SECTION V. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 18.2. This section amends subsection “E” of Section 18.2 of the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance so as to allow accessory dwellings as a special exception use in the “RR” Rural Residential zoning district. SECTION VI. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 19.2. This section amends subsection “F” of Section 19.2 of the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance so as to allow accessory dwellings as a special exception use in the “RL” Single Family Residential Lake zoning district. SECTION VII. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 19.3. This section amends Section 19.3 of the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to the “RL” Single Family Residential Lake District by the amendment of Subsection A thereof so as to impose a minimum front yard setback requirement of 50 ft. for a lakefront lot and 35 feet for a non-lakefront lot. SECTION VIII. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 21.1. This section amends Section 21.1 of the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance so as to redesignate the existing subsections 1, 2, 3, 4, A, B and 7 to, respectively, A, B, C, D, E, F and G. SECTION IX. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 21.2. This section amends Section 21.2 of the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance so as to redesignate the existing subsections 1, 2, 3 and 4 to, respectively, A, B, C and D. SECTION X. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 21.3. This section amends Section 21.3 of the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance by the elimination of the letter designation “A” and by the redesignation of subsections 1 and 2 to, respectively, A and B. SECTION XI. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 22.1. This section amends Section 22.1 of the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance by the redesignation of subsections 1 through 15 to, respectively, A through O. SECTION XII. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 22.2. This section amends Section 22.2 of the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance by the redesignation of subsections 1 through 9 to, respectively, A through I. SECTION XIII. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 23.1. This section amends Section 23.1 of the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance by the redesignation of subsections 1 through 9 to, respectively, A through I. SECTION XIV. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 23.2. This section amends Section 23.2 of the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance by the redesignation of subsections 1 through 8 to, respectively, A through H. SECTION XV. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 24.1. This section amends Section 24.1 of the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance by the redesignation of subsections 1 through 7 to, respectively, A through G. SECTION XVI. REPEAL OF SECTIONS 19.2.I, 21.2.5, 22.2.10, 23.2.9, 24.2 AND 27.2.K. This section repeals Sections 19.2.I, 21.2.5, 22.2.10, 23.2.9, 24.2 and 27.2.K of the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance. SECTION XVII. SEVERABILITY. The provisions of this Ordinance are severable. SECTION XVIII. EFFECTIVE DATE AND REPEAL OF CONFLICTING ORDINANCES. This Ordinance shall take effect eight (8) days following publication of this notice. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with this Ordinance are repealed. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the full text of this Ordinance has been posted in the office of the Hope Township Clerk at the address set forth below and that copies of this Ordinance may be purchased or inspected at the office of the Hope Township Clerk during regular business hours of regular working days following the date of this publication. Linda Eddy-Hough, Clerk HOPE TOWNSHIP 5463 South M-43 highway Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 948-2464 77565173 �Page 10 — Thursday, January 19, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE PURSUANT TO MCL 600.3205a(4) NOTICE is hereby provided to Randy Kill and Jennifer Wooliever, the borrowers and/or mortgagors (hereinafter "Borrower") regarding the property located at: 4846 S M 37 Hwy, Hastings, MI 49058-7810. The Borrower has the right to request a meeting with the mortgage holder or mortgage servicer. The agent designated by the Mortgage Servicer and/or Mortgage Holder to contact and that has authority to make agreements under MCL sections 600.3205b and 600.3205c is: Trott & Trott, P.C., 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200, Farmington Hills, MI 48334-2525 at (248) 593-1300 The Borrower may contact a housing counselor by visiting the Michigan State Housing Development Authority's website or by calling the Michigan State Housing Development Authority at http:// www.michigan.gov/mshda or at (866) 946-7432. If the Borrower requests a meeting with the agent designated above by contacting an approved housing counselor within 14 days from January 13, 2012, foreclosure proceedings will not be commenced until 90 days after January 13, 2012. If the Borrower and the agent designated above reach an agreement to modify the mortgage loan, the mortgage will not be foreclosed if the Borrower abides by the terms of the agreement. The Borrower has the right to contact an attorney. The telephone number of the State Bar of Michigan's Lawyer Referral Service is (800) 9680738. THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. Date: January 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer and/or Mortgage Holder 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334-2525 File # 394097F01 77565230 (01-19) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTENTION PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain Mortgage made between JACK L. REFFETT, a single man, whose address is 120 Delaware, Westville, Illinois 61883, as Mortgagor, and ICNB MORTGAGE COMPANY, L.L.C., a Michigan limited liability company, whose address is 302 West Main Street, Ionia, Michigan 48846, as Mortgagee, dated January 8, 2007, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on January 12, 2007, in Document No. 1174919, upon which Mortgage is claimed to be due at the date of this notice the sum of SEVENTYSIX THOUSAND SEVEN HUNDRED FORTY-TWO 12/100 ($76,742.12) DOLLARS, and no suit or proceedings at law or equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said Mortgage, or any part thereof; NOW, THEREFORE, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said Mortgage, and pursuant to the statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on February 16, 2012, at 1:00 p.m., said Mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction to the highest bidder at the Barry County Courthouse, 220 West State Street, Hastings, County of Barry, Michigan (that being the building where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held) of the premises described in said Mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due of said Mortgage, with interest thereon at 6.5% per annum, and all legal costs, expenses and charges, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sums which may be paid by the undersigned to protect its interest in the premises, which said premises are described as follows: Land situated in the City of Hastings, County of Barry and State of Michigan, to-wit: The South 1/2 of Lots 19 and 20, Block 13, of Kenfield’s 2nd Addition to the City of Hastings, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats on Page 37, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be thirty (30) days from the date of such sale. ICNB MORTGAGE COMPANY, L.L.C. Mortgagee Dated this 12th day of January, 2012. TIMOTHY L. CURTISS, Esq. Braun Kendrick Finkbeiner P.L.C. 304 East Broadway, Suite 206 Mt. Pleasant, Michigan 48858 77565295 989/775-7404 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Joan Patricia Leos, a Single Woman, original mortgagor(s), to Lansing Automakers Federal CU, Mortgagee, dated August 27, 2002, and recorded on September 6, 2002 in instrument 1086940, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Four Thousand Four Hundred Seventy-Four and 97/100 Dollars ($84,474.97), including interest at 6.99% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on February 16, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Woodland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 7 and 8 of Block 9 of the Village of Woodland, according to the recorded Plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #383088F01 77565235 (01-19)(02-09) VARNUM LLP Attorneys P.O. Box 352 Grand Rapids, Michigan 49501-0352 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE AND SALE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage (the "Mortgage") made by Dean D. Hunt and Amy S. Hunt, husband and wife, mortgagor, to Macatawa Bank, a Michigan banking corporation, having its principal offices at 10753 Macatawa Drive, Holland, Michigan 49424, mortgagee, dated August 2, 2007 and recorded August 15, 2007 at Instrument No. 20070815-0000940. Because of the default, the undersigned has elected to declare the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage immediately due and payable. At the date of this notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of One Hundred Fifty Six Thousand Sixty Six and 25/100 Dollars ($156,066.25). No suit or proceedings at law have been instituted to recover any part of the debt secured by the Mortgage. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay said amount with interest as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including attorney fees allowed by law, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the main entrance of the Courthouse at 220 West State Street in Hastings, Michigan, the place of holding the Circuit Court within Barry County, Michigan, on Thursday, February 2, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. local time. Pursuant to Section 3240(8) of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, as amended, (MCLA 600.3240(8); MSA 27A.3240(8)), the redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of the foreclosure sale, unless the premises are determined to be abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a; MSA 27A.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be thirty (30) days from the date of the sale. The premises covered by said mortgage is commonly known as 394 Riverwood Drive, and is situated in the Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, described as follows: Lot 42, Bryanwood Estates, Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats, Page 14. Dated: December 29, 2011 Macatawa Bank, a Michigan banking corporation, Mortgagee Varnum LLP Donald A. Snide, Esq. Attorneys for Mortgagee P.O. Box 352 Grand Rapids, Michigan 49501-0352 (616) 336-6000 77564757 #4825064_1.DOC SOUTHWEST BARRY COUNTY SEWER AND WATER AUTHORITY COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED 2012-2013 BUDGET PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Commission of the Southwest Barry County Sewer and Water Authority will conduct a public hearing on the Authority’s 2012-2013 fiscal year on January 30, 2012 at 1:00 at the Barry Township Hall, 155 E. Orchard St., Delton, Michigan 49046. A copy of the proposed budget is available for public inspection at the office of the Authority located at 11191 South M-43 Highway, Delton, Michigan 49046 during regular Authority business hours. In addition to other business which may properly come before the meeting, the Commission will consider any comments made by the public at the public hearing on the Authority budget and, further, will consider whether to adopt, and may adopt, the annual Authority budget for the 2012-2013 fiscal year. If adopted, the budget may be adopted in the form in which originally presented, or in such amended form as the Commission in its discretion may determine. All interested persons may attend the public hearing. The address of the Southwest Barry County Sewer and Water Authority is 11191 South M-43 Highway, Delton, Michigan 49046. The telephone number of the Authority office is (269) 623-3401. Dated: January 11, 2012 SOUTHWEST BARRY COUNTY SEWER AND WATER AUTHORITY 77565169 SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT 248-539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. INITIAL FORECLOSURE NOTICE AS REQUIRED BY MICHIGAN PUBLIC ACT 30 OF 2009. Notice is hereby provided to Ryan J. Vanzandt and Amy Devon Clark, the borrowers and/or mortgagors (hereinafter “Borrower”) regarding the property known as 5004 THORNAPPLE LAKE ROAD, NASHVILLE, MI 49073 that the mortgage is in default. The Borrower has the right to request a meeting with the mortgage holder or mortgage servicer through its designated agent, Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. (“Designated Agent”), 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300, Farmington Hills, Michigan 48335, 248-539-7400 (Tel), 248-539-7401 (Fax), email: designatedagent@sspclegal.com. Ryan J. Vanzandt and Amy Devon Clark also has/have the right to contact the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (“MSHDA”) at its website www.michigan.gov/mshda or by calling MSHDA at (866) 946-7432 (Tel). If Borrower(s) requests a meeting, no foreclosure proceeding will be commenced until the expiration of 90 days from the date Notice was mailed to the Borrower(s) pursuant to Section 3205(a) of HB 4454, Public Act 30 of 2009. If Designated Agent and Borrower(s) agree to modify the mortgage, the mortgage will not be foreclosed if the Borrower(s) abide by the terms of the modified mortgage. Borrower(s) have the right to contact an attorney or the State Bar of Michigan Lawyer Referral Service at (800) 968-0738 (Tel). Pub Date: January 19, 2012 SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, 77565332 Michigan 48335 JPMC.000094 (01-19) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Joseph W. Erwine and Jennifer Armintrout AKA Jennifer Armitrout husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated December 3, 2008, and recorded on December 15, 2008 in instrument 200812150011806, and assigned by said Mortgagee to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Four Thousand Seven Hundred One and 35/100 Dollars ($124,701.35), including interest at 7% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on February 9, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The West 60 Feet of Lot 12 and the East 40 Feet of Lot 13 of the Plat of Smith's Acres, according to the recorded Plat thereof in Liber 4 of Plats, Page 10. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #391358F01 77565345 77565006 (01-12)(02-02) THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Elaina M. Garrison, an unmarried woman, to Fifth Third Mortgage - MI, LLC, Mortgagee, dated August 1, 2006 and recorded August 7, 2006 in Instrument Number 1168236, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Fifth Third Mortgage Company by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Two Thousand Nine Hundred Sixty-Four and 98/100 Dollars ($82,964.98) including interest at 7.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on FEBRUARY 16, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The land referred to in this instrument, situated in the Village of Middleville, County of Barry, State of Michigan, is described as: Unit 6, East Town Homes, a Condominium according to the Master Deed recorded in Document Number 1074113, Barry County Records, as amended, and designated as Barry County Condominium Subdivision Plan Number 23, together with rights in the general common elements and the limited common elements as shown on the Master Deed and as described in Act 59 of the Public Acts of 1978, as amended. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: January 19, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 2683 File No. 200.8865 77565266 (01-19)(02-09) NOTICE PURSUANT TO MCL 600.3205a(4) NOTICE is hereby provided to John R. Haynes and Theresa L. Haynes, the borrowers and/or mortgagors (hereinafter "Borrower") regarding the property located at: 3654 Andrus Rd, Hastings, MI 49058-8415. The Borrower has the right to request a meeting with the mortgage holder or mortgage servicer. The agent designated by the Mortgage Servicer and/or Mortgage Holder to contact and that has authority to make agreements under MCL sections 600.3205b and 600.3205c is: Trott & Trott, P.C., 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200, Farmington Hills, MI 48334-2525 at (248) 593-1313 The Borrower may contact a housing counselor by visiting the Michigan State Housing Development Authority's website or by calling the Michigan State Housing Development Authority at http://www. michigan.gov/mshda or at (866) 946-7432. If the Borrower requests a meeting with the agent designated above by contacting an approved housing counselor within 14 days from January 13, 2012, foreclosure proceedings will not be commenced until 90 days after January 13, 2012. If the Borrower and the agent designated above reach an agreement to modify the mortgage loan, the mortgage will not be foreclosed if the Borrower abides by the terms of the agreement. The Borrower has the right to contact an attorney. The telephone number of the State Bar of Michigan's Lawyer Referral Service is (800) 9680738. THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. Date: January 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer and/or Mortgage Holder 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334-2525 File # 390507F01 77565233 (01-19) NOTICE PURSUANT TO MCL 600.3205a(4) NOTICE is hereby provided to Steven Vanduine and Susan Vanduine, the borrowers and/or mortgagors (hereinafter "Borrower") regarding the property located at: 6021 McKibbin Rd, Delton, MI 49046-8792. The Borrower has the right to request a meeting with the mortgage holder or mortgage servicer. The agent designated by the Mortgage Servicer and/or Mortgage Holder to contact and that has authority to make agreements under MCL sections 600.3205b and 600.3205c is: Trott & Trott, P.C., 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200, Farmington Hills, MI 48334-2525 at (248) 593-1302 The Borrower may contact a housing counselor by visiting the Michigan State Housing Development Authority's website or by calling the Michigan State Housing Development Authority at http:// www.michigan.gov/mshda or at (866) 946-7432. If the Borrower requests a meeting with the agent designated above by contacting an approved housing counselor within 14 days from January 13, 2012, foreclosure proceedings will not be commenced until 90 days after January 13, 2012. If the Borrower and the agent designated above reach an agreement to modify the mortgage loan, the mortgage will not be foreclosed if the Borrower abides by the terms of the agreement. The Borrower has the right to contact an attorney. The telephone number of the State Bar of Michigan's Lawyer Referral Service is (800) 9680738. THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. Date: January 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer and/or Mortgage Holder 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334-2525 File # 380005F02 77565213 (01-19) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Bryon Janousek and Tracy Janousek, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Wells Fargo Bank, NA, Mortgagee, dated September 21, 2005, and recorded on September 27, 2005 in instrument 1153440, and assigned by said Mortgagee to USBank National Association, as Trustee for MASTR Asset Backed Securities Trust 2006-AB1 as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Three Thousand One Hundred TwentyTwo and 01/100 Dollars ($73,122.01), including interest at 6.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on February 16, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 40 of O.A. Phillips Second Addition, to the Village of Nashville, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats on Page 23. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #391759F01 77565216 (01-19)(02-09) THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. MORTGAGE SALE -Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Virginia R. Grenz, and William H. Leforce, joint tenants, a single woman, a single man, Mortgagors, to Conseco Finance Servicing Corp., Mortgagee, dated July 26, 2000, and recorded on August 03, 2000, in Instrument No. 1047678, Barry County Records, and assigned by assignment to Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Trustee for Green Tree 2008-MH1, recorded in Barry County Records, Michigan, on which said mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, the sum of One Hundred Ninety-Two Thousand Seven Hundred Seventy-Nine 43/100 ($192,779.43) Dollars, including interest at 9.00% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at the place of holding the Circuit Court sales in Barry County, Michigan, on Thursday, February 23, 2012, at 1:00 p.m. Said premises are situated in the Township of Castleton, County of Barry and State of Michigan and are described as: The West 24 acres of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 18, Town 3 North, Range 7 West, subject to easements, reservations, restrictions and limitations of record, if any. C/k/a 5058 E. State Rd., Hastings, MI 49058. Parcel ID: 05-018-010-00. The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 16, 2012 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Trustee for Green Tree 2008MH1 Assignee of Mortgagee Keith A. Sotiroff, Esq. SOTIROFF & Bobrin, P.C. 30400 Telegraph Road, Ste. 444 Bingham Farms, MI 48025-4541 (248) 642-6000 (01-19)(02-09) NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. Notwithstanding, if the debt secured by this property was discharged in a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy proceeding, this notice is NOT an attempt to collect that debt. You are presently in default under your Mortgage Security Agreement, and the Mortgage Holder may be contemplating the commencement of foreclosure proceedings under the terms of that Agreement and Michigan law. You have no legal obligation to pay amounts due under the discharged note. A loan modification may not serve to revive that obligation. However, in the event you wish to explore options that may avert foreclosure, please contact our office at the number listed below. Attention: The following notice shall apply only if the property encumbered by the mortgage described below is claimed as a principal residence exempt from tax under section 7cc of the general property tax act, 1893 PA 206, MCL 211.7cc. Attention Casey S Wolfe and Shelley L Hendrick, regarding the property at 413 S East Street Hastings, MI 49058. The following notice does not apply if you have previously agreed to modify the mortgage loan under section 3205b. 3205a, 3205b and 3205c do not apply unless the terms of the modified mortgage loan entered into were complied with for one year after the date of the modification. You have the right to request a meeting with your mortgage holder or mortgage servicer. Potestivo & Associates, P.C. is the designee with authority to make agreements under MCL 600.3205b and MCL 600.3205c, and can be contacted at: 811 South Blvd., Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123. You may also contact a housing counselor. For more information, contact the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) by visiting www.michigan.gov/mshda or calling (866) 9467432. If you request a meeting with Potestivo & Associates, P.C.within 14 days after the notice required under MCL 600.3205a(1) is mailed, then foreclosure proceedings will not commence until at least 90 days after the date said notice was mailed. If an agreement to modify the mortgage loan is reached and you abide by the terms of the agreement, the mortgage will not be foreclosed. You have the right to contact an attorney and can obtain contact information through the State Bar of Michigan’s Lawyer Referral Service at (800) 968-0738. Dated: January 19, 2012. Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 information may be faxed to (248)267-3004, Attention: Loss Mitigation Our File 77565326 No: 12-55888 (01-19) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE The Mortgage described below is in default: Mortgage (the “Mortgage”) made by Joseph E. Dempsey and Margaret M. Dempsey, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, to United Bank Mortgage Corporation, a Michigan banking corporation, with its address at 900 East Paris Avenue SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49546, as Mortgagee, dated August 30, 2005 and recorded on September 7, 2005, Instrument No.: 1152315, Barry County Records, Barry County, Michigan. The balance owing on the Mortgage is $92,952.34 at the time of this Notice. The Mortgage contains a power of sale and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage, or any part of the Mortgage. TAKE NOTICE that on January 26, 2012, at 1:00 p.m., local time, or any adjourned date thereafter, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, (which is the building where the Circuit Court for Barry County is held). The Mortgagee will apply the sale proceeds to the debt secured by the Mortgage as stated above, plus interest on the amount due at the rate of 4.5% per annum; all legal costs and expenses, including attorneys fees allowed by law; and also any amount paid by the Mortgagee to protect its interest in the property. The property to be sold at foreclosure is all of that real estate situated in the County of Barry, State of Michigan, described as: COMMENCING AT THE CENTER QUARTER POST OF SECTION 18, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, HOPE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN; THENCE SOUTH 660 FEET ALONG THE NORTH-SOUTH QUARTER LINE OF SECTION 18; THENCE EAST 250 FEET PARALLEL WITH THE EAST-WEST QUARTER LINE OF SECTION 18, FOR THE TRUE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE CONTINUING EAST 250 FEET ALONG SAME COURSE; THENCE NORTH 760 FEET MORE OR LESS PARALLEL WITH SAID NORTH-SOUTH QUARTER LINE, TO THE CENTERLINE OF KELLER ROAD; THENCE WESTERLY 260 FEET MORE OR LESS ALONG SAID CENTERLINE; THENCE SOUTH 685 FEET MORE OR LESS, PARALLEL WITH SAID NORTH-SOUTH QUARTER LINE TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. Tax Identification Number: 08-07-018-007-12 The redemption period shall be one (1) year from the date of sale pursuant to MCLA 600.3240(12), unless deemed abandoned and then thirty (30) days pursuant to MCLA 600.3240(11). December 19, 2011 UNITED BANK MORTGAGE CORPORATION, Mortgagee PLUNKETT COONEY KELLI L. BAKER (P49960) Attorney for Mortgagee 333 Bridge Street NW, Suite 530 Grand Rapids, Michigan 49504 (616) 752-4624 (12-22)(01-19) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 19, 2012 — Page 11 ROADS, continued from page 5 down the road when we get housing pressure again, this will be important. We’re asking you to be visionaries.” Other commissioners had concerns about the extensiveness of public opinion solicited by the agriculture preservation board prior to drawing up the proposed amendments. Commissioner Robert Houtman delivered pointed remarks to Wing regarding an April 26, 2010, letter he had addressed to Wing. Houtman reminded Wing that the 2010 letter carried a specific suggestion that the board request each of 16 township supervisors in the county to review a suggested draft before submitting it to the Barry County Planning Commission for further review and suggestions. “How many of the 16 townships did you talk to?” challenged Houtman. Wing responded and Planning and Zoning Director Jim McManus confirmed that letters and a copy of the amended document went to all townships and that only one responded. Assyria Township Supervisor Mike Timmons attended Tuesday’s meeting. Houtman contended that officials in Prairieville and Barry townships told him that they had never seen the amended document. Stolsonburg reported similar reports from officials in Yankee Springs and Thornapple townships. “So, you have four townships that never heard of this document and you’ve got one that has provided feedback,” said Houtman. “You’ve heard nothing from 15 of 16 townships on something that could have huge ramifications on them. I find that very odd.” Timmons broke the semi-impasse by suggesting that the agriculture preservation board bring it before the upcoming quarterly meeting of all township supervisors. “Bob’s letter helps solidify the discussion,” commented Commissioner Dan Parker. “When you get the public to comment, you end up with a better document.” The commission agreed to table discussion until more public input could be gathered. Even after presentation to the 16 townships, the proposed amended agreement would still require a public hearing, a scenario that presented ground for consensus. Commissioners also deliberated the future in a second issue presented as a request by Message Express Internet, or MEI, to locate a wireless antenna on the existing radio tower at the sheriff’s department. The county currently contracts for six megabytes of high-speed bandwidth to cover Internet and data needs from TelNet Services. The MEI offer would provide an additional six megabytes at no cost to the county, in exchange for use of the antenna for a 10-year contract period. David Shinavier, information services manager for the county, listed two primary advantages in the MEI offer. “What we get is six megabytes of broadband Internet service for the sheriff, which doubles our capacity,” pointed out Shinavier. “But it also provides us a redundancy of service — we have two providers, so, if one goes down, we have another to fall back on.” Commissioners warmed to the idea, but wondered about future scenarios, pushing Shinavier to define if 12 megabytes of service would be enough for the future. “I understand there are some locations that can get 24 megabytes,” said Parker. “I’d hate to limit our capacity by agreeing to six megabytes for 10 years. Mark Graf, of MEI, assured Parker that the company could deliver more bandwidth, but it would come at a high price. “But how do we get beyond six megabytes if we’re locked in to a 10-year contract?” asked Houtman. Commissioner VanNortwick questioned the appropriateness of MEI as a private company using the public space of a countyowned tower to enhance its business offerings. “If AT&T built a tower, that would be taxable,” noted VanNortwick. “If [MEI] uses our tower, does it have an unfair advantage? I’m very concerned about transparency — what would that space [on the county-owned tower at the sheriff’s department] rent for? We don’t know. Is it $100 a month? Is the six megabytes we’re receiving worth $300 month? “I’m just saying, show me the numbers.” On the suggestion of Parker, the matter was tabled until numbers and additional research can provide further data. In other business, the commission recommended for approval at its Jan. 24 official meeting: • The appointment of Robert Taylor to serve a three-year term on the solid waste oversight committee • A resolution of intent to authorize Barry County Transit to apply for state and federal assistance grants for public transportation operating and capital funds • Changes to the Joint Workforce Development Agreement from a biennial agreement to one that annually renews automatically with a 60-day termination option • A 2012 budget amendment reflecting revenue and expenditure changes resulting from final determination of earlier estimated budget item figures • Amendment to the Barry County Animal Control Shelter Advisory Board bylaws to establish one-year terms for appointed Animal Control Board members The next meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners will be a strategic planning session to begin at 10 a.m. Thursday, Jan 19, at the commission meeting room in the Barry County Courthouse. LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE OF RIGHT TO NEGOTIATE MORTGAGE LOAN MODIFICATION This Notice is given to Walter & Stephanie Church, husband and wife (“Borrower”), whose address is, 547 Meadow Lane, Hastings, Michigan and concerns a real estate mortgage (“Mortgage”) granted by the Borrower to FIRSTBANK-WEST MICHIGAN (ICNB MTG. CO), a Michigan banking corporation (“Mortgage Holder”), whose address is 302 W. Main St., Ionia, Michigan 48846. The Mortgage covers property commonly known as 547 Meadow Ln., Hastings, Michigan, which is legally described as follows: LOT 28 OF THE PLAT OF FAIRHAVEN, HASTINGS TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT AS RECORDED IN LIBER 5 OF PLATS, PAGE 45, BARRY COUNTY RECORDS; EXCEPTING THEREFROM, THE FOLLOWING DESCRIBED PREMISES; THE WEST 311 FEET OF THE NORTH 294.75 FEET OF LOT 28 OF THE PLAT OF FAIRHAVEN, HASTINGS TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF, AS RECORDED IN LIBER 5, PAGE 45, BARRY COUNTY RECORDS; TOGETHER WITH INGRESS AND EGRESS OVER CERTAIN PROPERTY DESCIBED IN THE DEED RECORDED IN LIBER 372, PAGE 522, AS MODIFIED BY QUIT CLAIM DEED RECORDED IN LIBER 641, PAGE 673, BARRY COUNTY RECORDS. ALSO: THE EAST 20 FEET OF THE WEST 311 FEET OF THE NORTH 294.75 FEET OF LOT 28 OF THE PLAT OF FAIRHAVEN, HASTINGS TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AS RECORDED IN LIBER 5 OF PLATS, PAGE 45, BARRY COUNTY RECORDS Certain defaults have occurred under the Mortgage and the Mortgage Holder has or concurrently is mailing a Notice to Borrower (the “Notice by Mail”) pursuant to MCL 600.3205a(3) notifying Borrower of rights Borrower may have to request a meeting with the Mortgage Holder to negotiate certain types of modifications to the mortgage loan documents. Mortgage Holder gives further notice hereby in accordance with MCL 600.3205a(4). THE BORROWER IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT: (a) Borrower has the right to request a meeting with Mortgage Holder. (b) Mortgage Holder has designated CHERI HALL as the person (“Contact Person”) that the Borrower may contact about the Mortgage and the matters that are described in this Notice. The Contact Person has authority to make the agreements described in this Notice on behalf of Mortgage Holder. The Contact Person’s contact information is as follows: Website: www.firstbankmi.com <http://www.firstbankmi.com> Telephone: (989) 773-8339 (c) Borrower may contact a housing counselor (“Housing Counselor”) by visiting the Michigan State Housing Development Authority’s website or by calling the Michigan State Housing Development Authority. The website address and telephone number of the Michigan State Housing Development Authority is: Website: www.michigan.gov/mshda <http://www.michigan.gov/mshda> Telephone: 1-517-373-6840 (d) If the Borrower wishes to participate in an attempt to work out a modification of the mortgage loan, the Borrower must contact a Housing Counselor within 14 days. (e) If the Borrower requests a meeting (using a Housing Counselor) with the Contact Person within the time period provided in the Notice by Mail, Mortgage Holder will not start foreclosure proceedings until 90 days after the date of the Notice by Mail was sent to the Borrower. (f) If the Borrower and the Contact Person reach a written agreement to modify the mortgage loan, the Mortgage will not be foreclosed so long as the Borrower abides by the terms of modification agreement. (g) The Borrower has the right to contact an attorney. The telephone number of the State Bar of Michigan’s Lawyer Referral Service is: 1-800-9680738. Dated: January 13, 2012 FIRSTBANK-WEST MICHIGAN By: Kelley Scott Its: Collections Clerk 77565242 NMLS ID#: 799707 Call anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads 269-945-9554 NOTICE PURSUANT TO MCL 600.3205a(4) NOTICE is hereby provided to Mark Edger and Brenda Edger, the borrowers and/or mortgagors (hereinafter "Borrower") regarding the property located at: 412 W Clinton St, Hastings, MI 490582103. The Borrower has the right to request a meeting with the mortgage holder or mortgage servicer. The agent designated by the Mortgage Servicer and/or Mortgage Holder to contact and that has authority to make agreements under MCL sections 600.3205b and 600.3205c is: Trott & Trott, P.C., 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200, Farmington Hills, MI 48334-2525 at (248) 593-1309 The Borrower may contact a housing counselor by visiting the Michigan State Housing Development Authority's website or by calling the Michigan State Housing Development Authority at http:// www.michigan.gov/mshda or at (866) 946-7432. If the Borrower requests a meeting with the agent designated above by contacting an approved housing counselor within 14 days from January 17, 2012, foreclosure proceedings will not be commenced until 90 days after January 17, 2012. If the Borrower and the agent designated above reach an agreement to modify the mortgage loan, the mortgage will not be foreclosed if the Borrower abides by the terms of the agreement. The Borrower has the right to contact an attorney. The telephone number of the State Bar of Michigan's Lawyer Referral Service is (800) 9680738. THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. Date: January 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer and/or Mortgage Holder 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334-2525 File # 290575F02 77565240 (01-19) NOTICE PURSUANT TO MCL 600.3205a(4) NOTICE is hereby provided to Shanon Adams, the borrowers and/or mortgagors (hereinafter "Borrower") regarding the property located at: 309 W Main St, Middleville, MI 49333-9201. The Borrower has the right to request a meeting with the mortgage holder or mortgage servicer. The agent designated by the Mortgage Servicer and/or Mortgage Holder to contact and that has authority to make agreements under MCL sections 600.3205b and 600.3205c is: Trott & Trott, P.C., 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200, Farmington Hills, MI 48334-2525 at (248) 593-1302 The Borrower may contact a housing counselor by visiting the Michigan State Housing Development Authority's website or by calling the Michigan State Housing Development Authority at http:// www.michigan.gov/mshda or at (866) 946-7432. If the Borrower requests a meeting with the agent designated above by contacting an approved housing counselor within 14 days from January 13, 2012, foreclosure proceedings will not be commenced until 90 days after January 13, 2012. If the Borrower and the agent designated above reach an agreement to modify the mortgage loan, the mortgage will not be foreclosed if the Borrower abides by the terms of the agreement. The Borrower has the right to contact an attorney. The telephone number of the State Bar of Michigan's Lawyer Referral Service is (800) 9680738. THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. Date: January 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer and/or Mortgage Holder 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334-2525 File # 392400F01 77565223 (01-19) NOTICE PURSUANT TO MCL 600.3205a(4) NOTICE is hereby provided to Marcie L. Tepper, the borrowers and/or mortgagors (hereinafter "Borrower") regarding the property located at: 10225 Finkbeiner Rd, Middleville, MI 49333-9748. The Borrower has the right to request a meeting with the mortgage holder or mortgage servicer. The agent designated by the Mortgage Servicer and/or Mortgage Holder to contact and that has authority to make agreements under MCL sections 600.3205b and 600.3205c is: Trott & Trott, P.C., 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200, Farmington Hills, MI 48334-2525 at (248) 593-1311 The Borrower may contact a housing counselor by visiting the Michigan State Housing Development Authority's website or by calling the Michigan State Housing Development Authority at http:// www.michigan.gov/mshda or at (866) 946-7432. If the Borrower requests a meeting with the agent designated above by contacting an approved housing counselor within 14 days from January 17, 2012, foreclosure proceedings will not be commenced until 90 days after January 17, 2012. If the Borrower and the agent designated above reach an agreement to modify the mortgage loan, the mortgage will not be foreclosed if the Borrower abides by the terms of the agreement. The Borrower has the right to contact an attorney. The telephone number of the State Bar of Michigan's Lawyer Referral Service is (800) 9680738. THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. Date: January 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer and/or Mortgage Holder 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334-2525 File # 259898F03 77565244 (01-19) THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Daniel A. Rademacher, a married man, and Michelle L. Rademacher, his wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns., Mortgagee, dated September 23, 2005 and recorded October 3, 2005 in Instrument Number 1153753, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Bank of America, N.A., as successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. FKA Countrywide Home Loans Servicing L.P by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Forty-Two Thousand One Hundred Sixty-Two and 48/100 Dollars ($242,162.48) including interest at 6.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on FEBRUARY 2, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the Township of Irving, County of Barry, State of Michigan: The Northwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4, Section 1, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, Excepting therefrom the North 965 Also Except: Commencing at the Southwest corner of Section 1, Town 4 North, Range 9 West; thence North 00 degrees 28 minutes 41 seconds East, 1319.95 feet along the West line of said Section 1; thence South 89 degrees 37 minutes 50 seconds East, 467.00 feet along the North line of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of said Section 1 to the point of beginning; thence North 79 degrees 46 minutes 56 seconds East, 115.13 feet, thence North 00 degrees 07 minutes 50 seconds West, 26.00 feet; thence North 89 degrees 52 mintues 09 seconds, East, 729.23 feet; thence South 00 degrees 31 minutes 24 seconds West, 53.52 feet along the East line of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of said Section 1; Thence North 89 degrees 37 minutes 50 seconds West, 842.00 feet along the North line of the Southwest 1/4 of the southwest 1/4 of said section 1 to the point of beginning The redemption period shall be 12 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: January 5, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 617.9998 77564968 (01-05)(01-26) -SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by JOHN E. TRUMAN and KATHLIN J. TRUMAN, HUSBAND AND WIFE, to MORTGAGE PLUS OF AMERICA CORPORATION, Mortgagee, dated April 10, 2003, and recorded on April 17, 2003, in Document No. 1102257, and re-recorded on December 6, 2011 in Document No. 201112060011488 and assigned by said mortgagee to U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, as assigned,Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Eight Thousand Four Hundred Fifty-Two Dollars and Thirty Cents ($88,452.30), including interest at 6.000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on February 16, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: COMMENCING AT THE SOUTH 1 / 4 POST OF SECTION 28, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, HOPE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN; THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES 55 MINUTES 28 SECONDS WEST, 35.45 FEET TO THE EASTERLY LINE OF CORDES DRIVE, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT OF ROY K. CORDES SUBDIVISION AND ROY K. CORDES SUBDIVISION NO. 1 AS RECORDED IN LIBER 4 OF PLATS ON PAGE 14, AND LIBER 4 OF PLATS ON PAGE 49 RESPECTIVELY; THENCE THE FOLLOWING COURSES ALONG SAID EASTERLY LINE OF CORDES DRIVE TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING; NORTH 18 DEGREES 19 MINUTES 42 SECONDS WEST, 170.03 FEET; THENCE NORTH 01 DEGREES 05 MINUTES 03 SECONDS WEST, 432.77 FEET TO THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF SAID ROY K. CORDES SUBDIVISION NO. 1 AND THE POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE NORTH 01 DEGREES 05 MINUTES 34 SECONDS WEST, 124.92 FEET ALONG SAID EASTERLY LINE OF CORDES DRIVE; THENCE SOUTH 88 DEGREES 04 MINUTES 09 SECONDS EAST, 250.35 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 01 DEGREES 05 MINUTES 03 SECONDS EAST, 124.92 FEET; THENCE NORTH 88 DEGREES 04 MINUTES 09 SECONDS WEST, 250.35, FEET ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SAID ROY K. CORDES SUBDIVISION NO. 1 TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 USB.002476 (0177565334 19)(02-09) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Mark R Nelson and Amy J Nelson, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated February 10, 2004, and recorded on February 13, 2004 in instrument 1122208, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Central Mortgage Company as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Seven Thousand Seventy-Nine and 26/100 Dollars ($87,079.26), including interest at 3.625% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on February 9, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Woodland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at a point 96 feet 8 inches West of the Northeast corner of Section 21, Town 4 North, Range 7 West, for the place of beginning; thence running South 58 feet 9 inches; thence East 7 feet 8 inches; thence running North 1 foot; thence running East 11 feet; thence running South 10 and 1/2 Rods; thence West 9 and 1/2 feet ; thence South 4 Rods and 8 and 1/2 feet; thence West 7 Rods and 11 feet; thence North 18 Rods and 8 and 1/2 feet; thence East 7 Rods and 2 feet and 4 inches to the place of beginning. Except a parcel of land in the Northeast 1/4 of Section 21, Town 4 North, Range 7 West, described as: Commencing 96 feet 8 inches West of the Northeast corner of Section 21; thence South 58 feet 9 inches; thence East 7 feet 8 inches thence North 1 foot; thence East 11 feet; thence South 141 feet 1 inch for the place of beginning; thence South 32 feet 2 inch; thence West 9 feet 6 inches; thence South 74 feet 6 inches; thence West 126 feet 6 inches; thence North 106 feet 8 inches; thence East 136 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #355709F02 (01-12)(02-02) 77565068 LEGAL NOTICES THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Leslie Depriester, a single woman, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Wilmington Finance, Inc., Mortgagee, dated November 16, 2006 and recorded November 29, 2006 in Instrument Number 1173241, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by The Bank of New York Mellon, as Trustee for CIT Mortgage Loan Trust 2007-1 by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Nine Thousand Five Hundred Four and 34/100 Dollars ($89,504.34) including interest at 4% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on JANUARY 26, 2012. Said premises are located in the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing 20 rods South of the Southwest corner of Lot 1331, City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan; thence East 10 rods; thence South 4 rods; thence West 10 rods; thence North 4 rods to beginning. City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, being in the Northeast corner of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 19, Town 3 North, Range 8 West. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: December 29, 2011 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 676.0953 77564771 (12-29)(01-19) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by BRIAN M. SCHAEFER and SARA M. SCHAEFER, husband and wife (collectively, "Mortgagor"), to GREENSTONE FARM CREDIT SERVICES, FLCA, a federally chartered corporation, having an office at 3515 West Road, East Lansing, Michigan 48823 (the "Mortgagee"), dated March 29, 2006, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on March 30, 2006, as Instrument No. 1161954, as amended by an affidavit of correction dated March 1, 2007, recorded March 30, 2007, as Instrument No. 1178100, Barry County Records (the "Mortgage"). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgage Electronic Registration System (MERS) is not the sole foreclosing party. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Forty Four Thousand Thirty Six and 35/100 Dollars ($44,036.35). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public venue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 9th day of February, 2012, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the Township of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: A parcel of land in the Northwest 1/4 of Section 13, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, described as: Beginning at the North 1/4 corner of said Section 13; thence South 00°00'00" West, 544.50 feet along the North and South 1/4 line of said Section 13; thence North 89°24'35" West, 400.00 feet parallel with the North line of said Northwest 1/4 of Section 13; thence North 00°00'00" East, 544.50 feet to said North Section line; thence South 89°24'35" East, 400.00 feet along said Section line to the point of beginning. Subject to an easement for public highway purposes over the Northerly 33 feet thereof for East State Road. Together with all fixtures, tenements, hereditaments, and appurtenances belonging or in any way appertaining to the premises. Commonly known as: 4406 E. State Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058 P.P. #08-06-013-010-10 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. Dated: January 12, 2012 GREENSTONE FARM CREDIT SERVICES, FLCA Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2489 (616) 752-2000 5724104-1 77565353 �Page 12 — Thursday, January 19, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 11-25948 DE Estate of ARNOLD J. CLARE, Deceased. Date of birth: 04/08/1917. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, ARNOLD J. CLARE, died 03/18/2011. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to DENNIS CLARE, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court Street, Hastings and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 01/12/2012 Kenneth R. Struble, PLC by: Kenneth R. Struble (P43398) 500 Country Pine Lane, Suite #2 Battle Creek, MI 49015 (269) 979-7525 DENNIS CLARE 5717 Guernsey Lake Road Delton, MI 49046 77565300 (269) 623-3340 NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. Notwithstanding, if the debt secured by this property was discharged in a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy proceeding, this notice is NOT an attempt to collect that debt. You are presently in default under your Mortgage Security Agreement, and the Mortgage Holder may be contemplating the commencement of foreclosure proceedings under the terms of that Agreement and Michigan law. You have no legal obligation to pay amounts due under the discharged note. A loan modification may not serve to revive that obligation. However, in the event you wish to explore options that may avert foreclosure, please contact our office at the number listed below. Attention: The following notice shall apply only if the property encumbered by the mortgage described below is claimed as a principal residence exempt from tax under section 7cc of the general property tax act, 1893 PA 206, MCL 211.7cc. Attention Cindy K. Hess and Gordon C. Hess, regarding the property at 4057 Farrell Rd Hastings, MI 49058. The following notice does not apply if you have previously agreed to modify the mortgage loan under section 3205b. 3205a, 3205b and 3205c do not apply unless the terms of the modified mortgage loan entered into were complied with for one year after the date of the modification. You have the right to request a meeting with your mortgage holder or mortgage servicer. Potestivo & Associates, P.C. is the designee with authority to make agreements under MCL 600.3205b and MCL 600.3205c, and can be contacted at: 811 South Blvd., Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123. You may also contact a housing counselor. For more information, contact the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) by visiting www.michigan.gov/mshda or calling (866) 9467432. If you request a meeting with Potestivo & Associates, P.C. within 14 days after the notice required under MCL 600.3205a(1) is mailed, then foreclosure proceedings will not commence until at least 90 days after the date said notice was mailed. If an agreement to modify the mortgage loan is reached and you abide by the terms of the agreement, the mortgage will not be foreclosed. You have the right to contact an attorney and can obtain contact information through the State Bar of Michigan’s Lawyer Referral Service at (800) 968-0738. Dated: January 19, 2012. Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 information may be faxed to (248)267-3004, Attention: Loss Mitigation Our File 77565258 No: 12-55566 (01-19) THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by James F Rix, husband and, and Karen K Rix, wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for USAA Federal Savings Bank its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated November 17, 2006 and recorded November 27, 2006 in Instrument Number 1173160, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by GMAC Mortgage, LLC by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eighty-Seven Thousand Four Hundred Thirty-Four and 59/100 Dollars ($187,434.59) including interest at 6.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on JANUARY 26, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land located in the Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, State of Michigan, and described as follows: Unit 8 of Bay Meadow Condominium, a condominium according to the Master Deed recorded in document Number 1052228, and amendments thereto, if any, in Barry County Register of Deeds and designated as Condominium Subdivision Plan Number 19. Together with rights in the limited common elements and general common elements, as set forth in said Master Deed and described in Act 59 of The Public Acts of Michigan of 1978, as amended. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: December 29, 2011 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 703.1158 77564766 (12-29)(01-19) Synopsis Hastings Charter Township Regular Meeting January 10, 2012 Meeting called to order at 7:00 pm Pledge and roll call All board members present, 5 guests Presentation by BCRC Public comment none Approved December minutes & various dept. reports Commissioner’s report rec’d Treasurer’s report approved Clerk’s quarterly financial report Election Comm Board for Feb 28, 2012 Pres. Primary Approved submission of EPB Grant Poverty Guidelines for 2012 Mileage reimbursement rate 2012 Approval of Investment Policy and Approved Financial Institution List for 2012 Approved payment of warrants Board member comments Approved motion to adjourn 8:27 pm Read full minutes on twp. website Respectfully submitted, Anita S Mennell – Clerk Attested to by 77565319 Jim Brown – Supervisor THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Kelly H. Howard and Pamela J. Howard, husband and wife, to Fifth Third Mortgage Company, Mortgagee, dated October 4, 2001 and recorded October 8, 2001 in Instrument Number 1067730, Barry County Records, Michigan. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ninety-Six Thousand Nine Hundred Nine and 44/100 Dollars ($196,909.44) including interest at 6.625% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on FEBRUARY 9, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the Township of Barry, Barry County, State of Michigan, described as follows: Beginning at the Southwest corner of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 17, Town 1 North, Range 9 West, Barry Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence East 25 rods; thence North 32 rods; thence West 25 rods; thence South 32 rods to the beginning, except one square acre in the Southeast corner. The redemption period shall be 12 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: January 12, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 200.8904 (01-12)(02-02) 77565357 77565081 SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by RICHARD LINSEMAN, A MARRIED MAN and BARBARA LINSEMAN, A MARRIED WOMAN, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated July 21, 2005, and recorded on August 9, 2005, in Document No. 1150758, and assigned by said mortgagee to FLAGSTAR BANK, FSB, as assigned,Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Eight Thousand Six Hundred Dollars and Forty-Seven Cents ($98,600.47), including interest at 6.000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on February 9, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: COMMENCING AT THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF SECTION 32, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST; THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES 37 MINUTES 24 SECONDS WEST, 1912.69 FEET ALONG THE SOUTH LINE OF SAID SECTION 32 TO THE CENTERLINE OF LINDSEY ROAD AS NOW LOCATED; THENCE NORTH 07 DEGREES 55 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST 1441.82 FEET ALONG SAID CENTERLINE OF LINDSEY ROAD TO THE CENTERLINE OF BOULTER ROAD AS NOW LOCATED AND THE POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE NORTH 62 DEGREES 00 MINUTES EAST 281.09 FEET ALONG SAID CENTERLINE OF BOULTER ROAD; THENCE SOUTH 07 DEGREES 55 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST 165.00 FEET PARALLEL WITH SAID CENTERLINE OF LINDSEY ROAD; THENCE SOUTH 62 DEGREES 00 MINUTES WEST 281.09 FEET PARALLEL WITH SAID CENTERLINE OF BOULTER ROAD TO SAID CENTERLINE OF LINDSEY ROAD; THENCE NORTH 07 DEGREES 55 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST 165.00 FEET ALONG SAID CENTERLINE OF LINDSEY ROAD TO POINT OF BEGINNING. RESERVING THE NORTHERLY 33.0 FEET AND THE WESTERLY 33.0 FEET FOR HIGHWAY PURPOSES. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. FLAGSTAR BANK, FSB Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 FSB.004345 (01-12)(02-02) 77565109 77565109 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-26024-DE Estate of Sandra Kay Miller, deceased. Date of birth: 10/11/1956. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Sandra Kay Miller, died 1/24/2011. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Matthew C. Miller, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at Suite 302, 206 W. Court St., Hastings, MI 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. William M. Wright P23110 7077 N. Noffke Dr. Caledonia, MI 49316 (269) 945-6325 Matthew C. Miller 3392 Elmwood Beach Rd. Middleville, MI 49333 77565264 (269) 795-5310 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Robert E. Thomas, Jr. and Pamela L. Thomas, Husband and Wife as Joint Tenants, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 19, 2005, and recorded on September 19, 2005 in instrument 1153031, and assigned by said Mortgagee to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eighteen Thousand Three Hundred Fifty-Nine and 17/100 Dollars ($118,359.17), including interest at 6.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on February 2, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 44 of the plat of melody acres, according to the recorded plat thereof as recorded in liber 5 of plats on page 21, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #354739F02 77564958 (01-05)(01-26) THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Frederic J. Saint Amour, II, a married man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated October 4, 2005 and recorded October 10, 2005 in Instrument Number 1154234, and Affidavit to Expunge Sheriff's Deed recorded on 04/09/2010 Instrument Number 201004090003783, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, National Association, as Trustee, fka The Bank of New York Trust Company, N.A., as Trustee, as successor to JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A. as Trustee for RAMP 2006RS1 by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twelve Thousand Two Hundred Three and 41/100 Dollars ($112,203.41) including interest at 4.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on JANUARY 26, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Real property in the Township of Rutland, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and is described as follows: Commencing at the Northwest corner of CraigGarwood Plat, thence North 1 degree, 44 minutes East 150 feet to the point of beginning; thence South 88 degrees 16 minutes East 83 feet; thence 48 degrees, 14 minutes East 125 feet; thence North 1 degree, 44 minutes East 207.3 feet; thence North 40 degrees, 16 minutes West 33 feet to a point in the center of Hammond Road; thence in a South and West direction to the point of beginning; being the Southeast 1/4 of Section 1, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, Rutland Township, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: December 29, 2011 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 530.1286 77564752 (12-29)(01-19) SYNOPSIS Hope Township Regular Board Meeting Jan. 9, 2012 All Board members present 3 guests Approved: Previous Minutes Standing Reports Bills Zoning Ordinance #79 - Amendments Further Researching Zoning & Bldg. Fees Purchasing back of Lot 151 at CC Cemetery Adjourned 7:40 p.m. Linda Eddy-Hough, Clerk Attested to by Patricia Albert, Supervisor 77565289 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Steven M. Onderlinde, Cindy K. Onderlinde, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to First Indiana Bank, N.A., Mortgagee, dated June 25, 2002, and recorded on July 9, 2002 in instrument 1083452, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Five Thousand Five Hundred Ninety-Eight and 98/100 Dollars ($95,598.98), including interest at 4.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on February 2, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Delton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 39 of Lakewood Estates, according to the recorded Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 4 of Plats, Page 19. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #393539F01 77564963 (01-05)(01-26) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Jeffrey C. Milan and Jodie L. Milan Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 27, 2007, and recorded on May 3, 2007 in instrument 1180066, in Barry county records, Michigan, and assigned by said Mortgagee to PNMAC Mortgage Co., LLC as assignee, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Sixty-Six Thousand Nine Hundred Fifty-Five and 07/100 Dollars ($266,955.07), including interest at 8.9% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on February 9, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel C: A parcel of land located in the Northwest 1/4 of Section 35, Town 1 North, Range 10 West, and being more particularly described as follows: Commencing at the North 1/4 post of Section 35, Town 1 North, Range 10 West; thence South 00 degrees 50 minutes 29 seconds West along the North and South 1/4 line of said section 320.78 feet for the point of beginning of the parcel hereinafter described; thence continuing South 00 degrees 50 minutes 29 seconds West along the North and South 1/4 line of said section 333.94 feet; thence North 89 degrees 09 minutes 03 seconds West parallel with the South line of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of said Section 1317.49 feet; thence North 00 degrees 54 minutes 49 seconds East along the West line of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of said section (formerly referred to as "Norris Road") 333.94 feet; thence South 89 degrees 09 minutes 03 seconds East parallel with said South line 1317.07 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #360092F01 (01-12)(02-02) 77565391 77565055 THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Wade Kriekaard and Christina Kriekaard, husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Arbor Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated March 9, 2007 and recorded March 16, 2007 in Instrument Number 1177568, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by CitiMortgage, Inc. by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Three Hundred Twenty-Nine Thousand Five Hundred Seventeen and 40/100 Dollars ($329,517.40) including interest at 9.65% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on FEBRUARY 9, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Unit 8 of Romeyn Woods Condominium, a Condominium according to the Master Deed recorded in Liber 679 on Page 4 , and amendments thereto, and designated as Barry County Condominium Subdivision Plan Number 9, together with rights in general common elements and limited common elements as set forth in said Master Deed and as described in Act 59 of Public Acts of 1978, as amended. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: January 12, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 77565096 241.6275 (01-12)(02-02) THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Scott D. Carrigan, a single man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for GMAC Mortgage Corporation its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated March 1, 2004 and recorded February 23, 2005 in Instrument Number 1141851, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by GMAC Mortgage, LLC by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Two Thousand Three Hundred Forty-Seven and 15/100 Dollars ($72,347.15) including interest at 5.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on FEBRUARY 16, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: All that parcel of land in Barry County, State of Michigan, as more fully described in Deed Instrument Number 1007094, Identification Number 08-03-028-061-00, being known and designated as: A parcel of land being on the East 1/2 of the Southwest one-quarter of Section 28, Town 1 North, Range 9 West, described as commencing at a point in the center of the highway 9 rods South of the center of Section 28; Running thence West 10 rods; Thence South 2 rods; Thence West 4 rods; Thence South 4 rods; Thence East 14 rods to the center of the highway; Thence North 6 rods along the center of the highway to the place of beginning, and containing 76 square rods of land. Also: A parcel of land commencing at a point 15 rods South of the center of Section 28, Town 1 North, Range 9 West ; Thence South 1 rod; Thence West 10 rods; Thence North 1 rod; Thence East 10 rods to the place of beginning. Also: a parcel of land commencing at a point 9 rods South and 10 rods West of the center of Section 28, Town 1 North, Range 9 West; Thence West 4 rods; Thence South 2 rods; Thence East 4 rods; Thence North 2 rods to the place of beginning. All being located on Section 28, Town 1 North, Range 9 West. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: January 19, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 2683 File No. 618.9889 77565253 (01-19)(02-09) PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 19, 2012 — Page 13 Wooded areas near park, hospital cleaned out In a collaboration between the Barry County Jail, Pennock Health Services and the City of Hastings, the wooded areas between Pennock Hospital and Fish Hatchery Park have been groomed into a park-like setting over the previous weeks. A crew from the jail has worked every day for a month to get the job done. More than 100 truckloads of fire- At left: This view of Fish Hatchery from the Pennock Hospital parking lot shows where trees have been thinned. Below: The work crew includes (front, from left) Zack Rankin, Curtis Dome, Brandon Hammond, Jeff Gurd, Aaron Mead, crew leaders (back) Steve Pelikan and Rex Jarman III. wood have been donated to the community and churches for people in need. Steve Pelikan, head of the work crew, said the grounds between the Pennock parking lot and the Fish Hatchery Park drive have changed from an overgrown mess into a space with plenty of visibility. Insect-infested trees, underbrush and wind-fall trees were removed from the area, yielding close to 100 truckloads of firewood. This view of Green Street and the Fish Hatchery drive entrance is from the Pennock parking lot. Callton posts perfect voting record for 2011 As the Michigan Legislature begins a new year in Lansing, State Rep. Mike Callton is among a group of lawmakers with a perfect voting record. Official vote counts taken by the House clerk confirm that Callton, R-Nashville, did not miss any of the 619 roll call votes taken by the Michigan House during 2011. “Representing this community in Lansing is what the job is all about,” Callton said. Among the accomplishments of the House this year are early passage of a balanced state budget, reforming Michigan’s tax code to encourage job growth and the elimination of lifetime health benefits for state lawmakers. Callton said he was most proud to support measures that encourage local job providers to expand, as well as a budget that was completed without deficit spending. “In addition to maintaining a solid voting record, I’ve also dedicated myself to being a constant presence in the district. From the Barry County Fair to donkey racing at the Portland rodeo, I go to as many events as my schedule allows,” Callton said. Residents may contact Callton’s office at 517-373-0842 or by email at mikecallton@house.mi.gov. City of Hastings Is it a law that you have to use turn signals if you are just changing lanes? I think it’s optional, but my friend told me that I can get a ticket if I don’t signal. Anytime a driver of a motor vehicle or bicycle turns from a direct line of travel upon a highway, the driver must indicate this by hand signal or electric turn signal to warn other highway traffic. This means that you do have to signal your intent to change lanes. Taking the time to check your mirrors, do a head check, then using a signal may prevent a collision. Remember, too, whenever you are changing lanes or turning onto another roadway, look twice for oncoming traffic since you may be pulling into the path of a vehicle traveling at a much greater speed than you expect. By looking twice, you will be able to better gauge the closing speed and perhaps wait for that vehicle to pass before you turn into the lane. I inherited an old firearm, but I’m not sure if it is considered an antique. Can you tell me what qualifies as an antique? Fans of the History Channel’s show “Pawn Stars” will know the answer to this question. For anyone else, the answer can be found in the Michigan Penal Code or on the ATF website under the Gun Control Act of 1968. The short answer is anything manufactured during or before 1898. Here is the more detailed response: “A firearm not designed or redesigned for using rimfire or conventional center fire ignition with fixed ammunition and manufactured in or before 1898, including a matchlock, flint- lock, percussion cap or similar type of ignition system or replica of such a firearm, whether actually manufactured before or after 1898. “A firearm using fixed ammunition manufactured in or before 1898, for which ammunition is no longer manufactured in the United States and is not readily available in the ordinary channels of commercial trade.” A good resource for any questions one may have pertaining to firearms is the Michigan State Police website. Go to www.michigan.gov/msp and click on the “Firearms” link along the left side of the page. How many points can you have on your driver’s license, and how long do they stay there? The secretary of state is responsible for the licensing point system. Points will remain on your record for two years from the date of the conviction. When you accumulate 12 points on your driving record, you will be requested to appear for a driver reexamination and may face a suspension of your driving privileges. It shouldn’t come as a surprise since the secretary of state office will send you warning letters after you reach four points in a twoyear period and again when you have eight points. Just be sure to keep your address current with secretary of state to ensure you receive any correspondence. To get answers to other questions, send questions to waylandpost@gmail.com or write to Trooper Kellie Summerhays, 544 N. Main St., Wayland MI 49348. HASTINGS AREA SCHOOL SYSTEM is accepting BIDS for the sale of PLEASANTVIEW SCHOOL (BUILDING, CONTENTS AND PROPERTY) (Property located north of Battle Creek: 3754 Lacey Rd., Bellevue, MI 49021) Details about submitting bid proposals can be obtained from: Barbara Hunt, Director of Finance Hastings Area School System 232 West Grand Street Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 948-4400 bhunt@hassk12.org BID DUE DATE: 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 15, 2012 at the above address. NOTE: Interested parties are encouraged to contact the Barry County Planning & Zoning Office about zoning issues and the Barry-Eaton Health Department about water well and septic system issues related to the intend07590992 ed use of the property. City of Hastings NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that the Planning Commission of the City of Hastings will hold a Public Hearing on Monday, February 6, 2012 at 7:00 PM in the City Hall Council Chambers, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. The purpose of the Public Hearing is for the Planning Commission to hear comments and make a determination on an amendment to the B-1 Central Business District, B-2 General Business District, proposed B-3 Downtown Edge District, and D-2 Industrial District to allow buildings to exceed the height limitations of these zoning districts if permitted as a Special Land Use by the Planning Commission. Written comments will be received on the above request at Hastings City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. Requests for information and/or minutes of said hearing should be directed to the Hastings City Clerk at the same address. The City will provide necessary reasonable aids and services upon five days notice to Hastings City Clerk (telephone number 269-945-2468) or TDD call relay services 1-800649-3777. Thomas E. Emery City Clerk 77565271 Notice is hereby given that the Planning Commission of the City of Hastings will hold a Public Hearing on Monday, February 6, 2012 at 7:00 PM in the City Hall Council Chambers, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. The purpose of the Public Hearing is for the Planning Commission to hear comments and make a determination on an amendment to rezone the following properties from A-O (Apartment/Office District) to B-1 (Central Business District): Parcel Number Address 08-55-201-009-00 209 W. Mill St. 08-55-201-016-00 101 W. Mill St. Written comments will be received on the above request at Hastings City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. Requests for information and/or minutes of said hearing should be directed to the Hastings City Clerk at the same address. The City will provide necessary reasonable aids and services upon five days notice to Hastings City Clerk (telephone number 269-945-2468) or TDD call relay services 1-800-649-3777. Thomas E. Emery City Clerk 77565251 City of Hastings City of Hastings NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that the Planning Commission of the City of Hastings will hold a Public Hearing on Monday, February 6, 2012 at 7:00 PM in the City Hall Council Chambers, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. The purpose of the Public Hearing is for the Planning Commission to hear comments and make a determination on an amendment to Section 90-473 (5) of the Zoning Ordinance to add a reference to Section 90-1084 regarding vehicle service and gas stations. Written comments will be received on the above request at Hastings City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. Requests for information and/or minutes of said hearing should be directed to the Hastings City Clerk at the same address. The City will provide necessary reasonable aids and services upon five days notice to Hastings City Clerk (telephone number 269-945-2468) or TDD call relay services 1-800-649-3777. Thomas E. Emery City Clerk 77565273 Notice is hereby given that the Planning Commission of the City of Hastings will hold a Public Hearing on Monday, February 6, 2012 at 7:00 PM in the City Hall Council Chambers, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. The purpose of the Public Hearing is for the Planning Commission to hear comments and make a determination on an amendment to Section 90-1084 of the Ordinance to modify the setback requirements for vehicle service and gasoline stations in the B-1 Central Business Zoning District. Written comments will be received on the above request at Hastings City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. Requests for information and/or minutes of said hearing should be directed to the Hastings City Clerk at the same address. The City will provide necessary reasonable aids and services upon five days notice to Hastings City Clerk (telephone number 269-945-2468) or TDD call relay services 1-800-649-3777. Thomas E. Emery City Clerk 77565275 �Page 14 — Thursday, January 19, 2012 — The Hastings Banner MILLAGE, continued from page 1 the designated policy holder for medical benefit plans; the district will develop or continue to implement a service consolidation plan with neighboring schools; the school system has obtained a competitive bid on noninstructional services; and the district will provide a link on its home page to the Michigan School Data Portal which will contain the required dashboard indicators. While districts are required to comply with only four of the five to qualify for the additional perpupil funding, Hastings Area Schools met all five criteria. • Approved board policies as revised by Neola, a service that provides school districts with information to update board bylaws and policies, administrative guidelines and procedures and more. • Accepted the following donations: A Canon Rebel EOS camera body and accessories valued at $875 from Nancy Hammond, to be used by the high school yearbook class; Three vehicles collide in weekend accident Orangeville A three-vehicle accident occurred Saturday, Jan. 14, on M-37 south of Hastings near Campground Road. One vehicle was headed south, waiting to turn left into the BP gas station, when it was struck from behind and propelled into oncoming traffic. A third vehicle was struck as the first car entered the northbound lane. couple dies in apparent double suicide Barry County Deputies responded Jan. 16 on a report of a suicide at a home on 9 Mile Road, around 3 p.m. Deputies found a 27year-old male who apparently died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, and a 21-yearold female who appeared to have died from a drug overdose. The incident remains under investigation. COURT NEWS Two suspects are wanted in the breaking and entering of the Hastings BP gas station on North Broadway at Woodlawn Avenue. Broadway BP station vandalized, robbed Hastings Police responded to an alarm at the BP gas station at North Broadway and Woodlawn Avenue Tuesday, Jan. 17, at around 2:51 a.m. Officers reported that a large window on the north side of the building was smashed. Several items from inside the station were strewn on the ground outside the building. A police tracking dog revealed additional evidence east of the station. Video surveillance showed two subjects with their faces covered, one wearing a white and dark plaid jacket, the other wearing a dark jacket with a dark hooded sweatshirt. According to the station’s owner, several smaller items were taken from the store immediately inside the broken window. Although the dog track was lost about a block east of the station, the investigation is continuing. Anyone having information concerning the robbery is asked to call Silent Observer at 800-310-9031 or the Hastings Police at 269945-5744. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 Automotive Recreation 2000 FORD EXCURSION: WANTED HUNTING Excellent condition, $8,400. LAND: (2) Families are in(269)838-9189 terested in leasing acreage for this years deer season. BUYING JUNK VEHICLES, Call (269)795-3049 paying cash. Call for quite, 269-830-4842. Help Wanted RICK TAYLOR’S DETAIL WORKS. Auto cleaning service. Hours: 8am-5pm. (269)948-0958. Business Services BOOKKEEPING SERVICES Personal * Self-Employed * Small Business Payroll * Billing Accounts Receivable * Accounts Payable General Ledger Weekly * Monthly * Quarterly * Annually Call today! (269)420-5714 DRIVER TRAINEES NEEDED NOW! Become a driver for Werner Enterprises! Earn $750 per week! No experience needed! Local CDL Training! Job ready in 15 days! 1-877-649-2697. For Rent FOR RENT: 3 Blocks from Central and High School. 3 bedroom, 1 3/4 bathroom, living room/dinning room, kitchen, full basement with half remodeled for more living space. Stove, refrigerator, washer and dryer. Central air, and 2 stall garage wit door opener. Fenced in back yard. $850 month plus deposit. Location: 629 W. Grand St. Call for application and showing. (269)9482809 or (269)953-7904 National Ads Estate Sale THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is deceptive, fraudulent or might otherwise violate law or accepted standards of taste. However, this publication does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the quality of goods or services advertised. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made in any advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you ask for money in advance of delivery of goods or services advertised. ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. For Sale ACHIEVE ENERGY INDEPENDENCE- With a Classic Outdoor Wood Furnace from Central Boiler. 25 year warranty. Call SOS your “Stocking Dealer” Dutton, MI (616)554-8669 or (616)915-5061 AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 Kendra Ann Shannon, 28, of Middleville was sentenced Jan. 11 for assaulting, resisting or obstructing a police officer. Shannon was ordered to serve three months in jail, with credit for 19 days served. She must pay $1,698 in costs and serve 24 months on probation. The last 60 days of her jail sentence will be suspended on successful completion of probation. She must complete a domestic violence program, cognitive behavior therapy, attend a relapse prevention class and attend Alcoholics Anonymous three times a week. She must also have a substance abuse assessment. Charges of domestic violence and habitual offender, second offense, were dropped. On Jan. 11, Michael Edward Grundy of Hastings was sentenced for operating under the influence with an occupant less than 16 years old, and a second or subsequent offense for the same. Grundy, 26, was ordered to serve 10 months in jail, with credit for two days served. He must pay $1,948 in costs by March 1, and serve 36 months on probation. Grundy will spend the first seven days in jail with the remainder of his sentence served on weekends. The last nine months of his sentence will be suspended upon successful completion of probation. His vehicle has been immobilized. A charge of dangerous weapon and habitual offender, fourth offense, has been dropped. Chad Michael Zickus, 22, of Bellevue was sentenced for interfering with electronics and for domestic violence. Zickus was ordered to serve eight months in jail on the electronics charge and 93 days for the domestic violence charge. He was given credit for 121 days served. Zickus must pay $1,266 in costs and serve 24 months on probation. He must complete an anger management class and have no contact with the victim. Zickus was also ordered to show no harassing, intimidating, threatening or assaultive behavior toward his parents. Charges dropped include interfering with electronic communications; malicious destruction of property $200 to $1,000; and two domestic violence charges. On Jan. 12, Katie Jean Harvath was sentenced for operating under the influence of liquor, third offense, and fleeing a police officer, fourth degree. Harvath, 22, of Hastings, was ordered to serve 30 days in jail, with credit for eight days served. She must pay $2,001 in costs and serve 36 months on probation. Harvath’s driver’s license was suspended. She must complete drug court and obtain her GED and pay $125 a month toward assessed costs. Charges dropped included fleeing a police officer in a vehicle, third degree; operating on a suspended, revoked or denied license; and having an alcohol open container in vehicle. Timothy Glen Leach, 31, of Nashville was sentenced for larceny of a building and stolen property less than $200. Leach was ordered to serve six months in jail on the first charge and seven months for the second. He was granted credit for seven days served. Leach must pay $2,251 in costs and serve 36 months on probation. Charges dropped included two breaking and entering with intent and possession of marijuana. a Lowepro Rezon 170A W camera bag valued at $50, from Ann Davis, to be used by the high school yearbook class; $700 from Target to be used to cover transportation costs for all fifth grade students in the district to participate in the Star Base program in Battle Creek; donations totaling $4,191 from the Hastings Education Enrichment Foundation to be used to defray the cost of several projects, activities, trips and materials for students, including $800 for indoor fitness trails at all elementary schools, $808 for transportation and lifeguards for middle school aquatic instruction; $200 for mentor reading books at Northeastern Elementary; $1,360 for transportation and entry fees for the middle school Science Olympiad; $201 for transportation to Pennock Hospital for all second grade stu- dents; $102 for Scholastic magazine subscription for Southeastern Elementary second graders; $350 for supplemental math games and activities for Young Fives through fifth grade at Star Elementary; and $370 to cover the high school Youth in Government advisor fee for the spring conference. • Announced the following meetings: A joint meeting with the Delton Kellogg Board of Education and the Barry Intermediate School District at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 23, at the BISD, 535 W. Woodlawn Ave., Hastings; the next regular work session of the board 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 21, in the multi-purpose room of Hastings Middle School; and, the next regular board meeting at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 27, in the multi-purpose room of Hastings Middle School. POLICE BEAT Man hides in deer blind after taking metal Michigan State Troopers responded Jan. 11 to an address on Heath Road in Rutland Township. The caller said he lives in Kent County and returned home from an out-ofstate trip to learn from his girlfriend that a 56-year-old Hastings man had stolen several items belonging to him, mostly scrap metal. The caller went to the Heath Road residence to confront the man and reclaim his items. As the Grand Rapids man arrived, he observed the Hastings man trying to leave in a pickup truck containing the stolen scrap. The suspect refused to return the items and instead drove back onto his 20 acres of property to avoid the complainant. Troopers arrived, located the truck, and found several of the items hidden in the surrounding woods, but could not locate the suspect. A trooper and service dog, Manny, were requested from the Coldwater Post to track the suspect. Manny located the suspect hiding in a deer blind on the property, and the alleged scrap thief was taken into custody without incident. The man was lodged at the Barry County Jail on an outstanding child support warrant and for receiving and concealing stolen property. Woodland suspect charged with assault, child abuse State troopers were dispatched to possible domestic assault Jan. 14 at approximately 1:30 a.m. The alleged victim fled her house on South Main Street in Woodland prior to the troopers arrival. The woman was able to escape the residence with her baby daughter and went to a neighbor’s house. She told troopers the 26year-old Hastings man is her fiancé, and that he did not live at the residence. She had told Barry County dispatchers that her 2year-old son had been assaulted by the suspect, and she did not know his current condition or where he was in the house. Troopers entered the residence and found the boy and suspect in a bedroom, noting signs of a struggle and damage to numerous pieces of property inside the residence. The woman told troopers the suspect had been drinking vodka. He became upset and began calling her names, broke the bedroom door and began damaging items in the home. At one point, the man sat in a chair in the kitchen with little boy, who said something to the effect of “Stop being mean,” and the suspect allegedly struck his son in the face, causing him to fall to the floor. The suspect also threw a dry erase board at woman and the children, causing part of the board to lodge in the wood paneling wall. The victim said she then began getting the children ready to leave the house. She said she was bending down near the door putting shoes on one of the children when the suspect threw the table, which landed about two feet away from her and the baby. As she was attempting to leave the residence, she said the man grabbed a knife and said he was going to cut her throat. As she was leaving, carrying the baby, the suspect threw what she originally thought was a knife at the door. (The investigation revealed that scissors matching the knife set were most likely thrown). The woman said she tripped in the front yard, and after suspect took their son, he began to run toward her. She said she was able to get to the neighbor’s house with the baby girl. The suspect was arrested on multiple charges of domestic violence, felonious assault and child abuse. Erratic driving leads troopers to meth lab A traffic stop on US-131 near Shelbyville led to the discovery of a meth lab and stolen items in a Yankee Springs Township home Wednesday, Jan. 11, shortly before 6 p.m. A Michigan State Police trooper from the Wayland post stopped a pickup truck being driven erratically on US-131 near 124th Avenue in Allegan County, after getting a call from a motorist that the truck nearly struck a semi trailer. The driver and sole occupant of the pickup was found to be under the influence of a controlled substance and admitted to having recently smoked methamphetamine. A search of his vehicle yielded additional meth, paraphernalia and components used in manufacturing methamphetamines. The man, 47, further admitted that he had additional components at his residence for manufacturing meth and agreed to allow the trooper and members of the West Michigan Enforcement Team to search his Wayland home in Yankee Springs Township. More components were located, along with suspected stolen items. The man was arrested on charges of operating while under the influence of a controlled substance, possession of methamphetamine, and possession of meth components. Teen arrested for taking small device Hastings Police were called to the Hastings Kmart on West State Street Jan. 11 for a shoplifting incident. Store personnel told officers a 19-year-old Hastings man had entered the store, opened a package and taken a small electronics device. The man attempted to leave the store with two other individuals. Store personnel detained the suspect until police arrived. The Hastings man was arrested for retail fraud. Tip leads to possible meth lab Barry County Deputies responded to an anonymous tip Jan. 6, concerning a possible methamphetamine operation on Thornapple Lake Road near Nashville. When the 30year-old Nashville resident was approached about the meth lab, he denied the accusation, but would not let deputies search the residence. Deputies found evidence of meth manufacturing on the outside of the residence. Since three children were residing at the house, Child Protection Services was contacted. Three Nashville adults are under investigation, and the case remains open. Man caned by mother Deputies were dispatched Jan. 11 to a Middleville residence for a reported domestic assault. The complainant said his 80year-old mother had struck him several times with her aluminum cane. The man said his mother was upset because he had brought a poinsettia flower into her home. The man said he had seized the cane from his mother and bent it in response to being struck. Reportedly, the woman then pointed at her son with a box cutter. The man took the box cutter from his mother and called 911. The elderly woman said she was very upset her son was on the phone with a woman, and that the woman calls all the time and she doesn’t like it. The son did not want to pursue charges. ‘Something stupid’ yields 911 call Barry County deputies were dispatched Jan. 8 to a Hutchinson Road address regarding a possible domestic situation. The 28year-old man said he was checking to see if his 26-year-old girlfriend had just called 911. He told dispatch there was no need to respond anymore, but deputies continued to the address in southern Barry County. The girlfriend told deputies the couple had been arguing about “something stupid.” During the argument, she had picked up the phone and dialed three random numbers, and the boyfriend assumed it was 911. Deputies determined the dispute was verbal and not physical. The case is closed. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 19, 2012 — Page 15 Wildcats and Trojans each win six events in pool by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Trojans won half the events, but Wayland piled up plenty of second-, third-, fourth- and fifth-place points to win its O-K Rainbow dual in Hastings Thursday. Wayland’s varsity boys’ swimming and diving team topped the Thornapple Kellogg/Hastings boys 108-77 in the Community Education and Recreation Center pool. TK/Hastings boys won three of the first four events, and the two teams were tied heading into the diving competition. Wayland though had the top three scorers in the diving, and soon after had the top three finishers in the 500-yard freestyle to pull away from the Trojans. “We’re still lacking in our depth,” said TK/Hastings head coach Tyler Bultema. “It’s a matter of our seconds and thirds, or Bs and Cs, aren’t as fast as other teams’ Bs and Cs right now. That could change in a couple weeks, but against the better teams that’s the case.” The only even in which TK/Hastings had two of the top three scorers was the 200-yard individual medley, an even with Wayland’s Ian Carter won in 2 minutes 22.83 seconds. TK/Hastings had Levi Ryfiak second in 2:27.05 and Dexx VanHouten third in 2:30.50. That 200 IM was the first event of the night that the TK/Hastings boys didn’t win. The team of Zack Zwiernikowski, Craig Gagnon, Ryfiak and Daegen Mix won the 200-yard medley relay in 1:53.65 to start the night. Gagnon followed that up by winning the 200- yard freestyle in a personal record time of 2:00.81. Gagnon’s performance in the 200 freestyle was one of 22 personal records set by the TK/Hastings boys. Zwiernikowski put up a new PR in winning the 100-yard backstroke in 1:04.25, and Ryfiak had a new PR with his winning time of 1:02.58 in the 100-yard butterfly. The TK/Hastings team also had Mix win the 50-yard freestyle in 24.98 seconds, and the team of Mix, Jared Bailey, Zwiernikowski and Gagnon win the 400-yard freestyle relay in 3:49.65. Carter won two individual races for the Wildcats, the 200 IM and the 100-yard backstroke which he took in 1:12.75. Carter also teamed with Taylor Euwema, Ron Freeze and Thornapple Kellogg/Hastings’ Craig Gagnon races towards a second-place finish in the 100-yard breaststroke during Thursday night’s league dual with Wayland in Hastings. (Photo by Brett Bremer) TK/Hastings’ Ronnie Collins works his way through the water during the 500-yard freestyle Thursday against Wayland. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Cole Ackerman to win the 200-yard freestyle relay in 1:42.39. Wayland had the top two relay teams in that event. Other winners for the Wildcats included Trenton Bouma who had a score of 192.35 in the diving competition, Scott Freiberg who won the 100-yard freestyle in 55.75 and Ackerman who won the 500-yard freestyle in 5:54.56. The Trojans felt as though the night was a success though. “I tell them every week, we’re here to beat the clock. Beat the clock,” said Bultema. “They did that again this week.” The Trojans return to action at home against Unity Christian Thursday. Trojan girls lose to rebounding Scots by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Trojans got the honor of being Caledonia’s first foe after a disappointing defeat at O-K Gold Conference leading Grand Rapids Catholic Central. Caledonia’s varsity girls’ basketball team scored a 60-24 O-K Gold Conference victory over visiting Thornapple Kellogg Friday. The Fighting Scots ran out to an 11-0 lead in the first quarter, and outscored the Trojans 53-15 through the first three quarters. A three by reserve guard Heather Jozwik at the end of the third quarter, and another bucket by her in the first minute of the second half put the Scots up by 40 and started the running clock. “I was really happy that we came out and we took a lead early and we didn’t look back,” said Caledonia head coach Joe Harvey. “This group has had a tendency to sometimes overlook people and to struggle for the first quarter or whatever. We were up 11-0. I felt like we started strong, and we continued with it. We didn’t look back.” Caledonia improved to 8-2 overall with the win and 4-1 in the O-K Gold Conference, a game back Catholic Central who improved to 5-0 in the league with a 48-13 win over Forest Hills Eastern Friday night. “I felt like these kids were very disappointed after Friday and didn’t have a game on Tuesday and so this was the first one after that,” Harvey said. “We still have sights on winning the conference. We talk about, as long as we take care of our end of the bargain Thornapple Kellogg point guard Molly Lark dribbles past Caledonia’s Asia Slagter during the first half Friday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) we will have a shot at that at the end. They still have that in mind. Kudos to them that they still know that’s a possibility if they do what they’re supposed to do. BOWLING SCORES Monday Mixerettes NBT 46.5.29.5; Kent Oil 41-35; Dean’s Dolls 40.5-35.5; Dewey’s Auto Body 37-39; Nashville Chiropractic 37-39; James Process Service 26-50. Good Games and Series - S. Dunham 168465; N. Potter 156; K. Fowler 182; J. Alflen 179; L. Elliston 208-525; M. Rodgers 207541; C. Wilcox 168-473; B. Hathaway 189; N. Goggins 167; D. Worm 167-454. Senior Citizens Butterfingers 51-25; Just Having Fun 46.529.5; Kuempel 43-33; Usedtobe #1 41-35; M&M’s 38-38; Three Gals & a Guy 38-38; Early Risers 37-39; King Pins 36-40; Sun Risers 30.5-45.5; Ward’s Friends 19-57. Women’s Good Games and Series - Y. Markley 159-434; P. Shellington 175-418; B. Benedict 154; D. Larsen 164; C. Stuart 158438; M. Wieland 168; N. Boniface 172-473; J. Gasper 208. Men’s Good Games and Series - R. Hart 179-483; C. Atkinson 181; B. Akers 198; R. McDonald 245-618; R. Boniface 181; C. Purdum Sr. 197; L. Dunn 168-471; G. Forbey 154-429; P. Gasper 256. Wednesday PM Mills Landing 53-23; The River 44-32; Eye & ENT 43-33; Hair Care 38.5-33.5*; Four Pals 37.5-38.5. Good Games and Series - A. Tasker 170420; P. Shellington 153; E. Ulrich 164-465; S. Beebe 179; K. Moore 120; R. Pitts 157-379; L. Elliston 190. *Games to be made up. Tuesday Trios Rollarama 55-25; CB’s 52-28; Lu’s Team 46-34; Look Insurance 46-34; Shirlee S. Team 44-36; Twisted Sisters 44-36; Blair Landscaping 41-39; Coleman Agency 39-41; Trouble 33-47; Team Turkey 32-48; Classic 3 31-49; Team 12 7-73. Tuesday Night Mixed Boyce Milk Haulers 52-28; Hurless Machine Shop 50.5-29.5; Hometown Lumber 47.5-32.5; Barry County Red Cross 4-436; JBar Antique Tractors 32-48; Dirt Broke 14-66. Men’s Good Games and Series - D. Benner 198-568; D. Kiersey 190-504; C. Featherly 188; G. Hause 181; K. Beebe 179. Women’s Good Games and Series - D. Service 228-492; B. Wilkins 208-596; S. Beebe 177; D. Ware 170; B. Ramey 162-472; R. Gross 156-409; R. Ulrich 142-396. Thurs. Angels Miller Farm Repair 45.5-26.5; Rock-NBowlers 42.5-29.5; Moore’s Apts. 42-30; Rivrfront Fin. Ser. 42-30; Hastings Bowl 4131; Cathy’s Cut & Curl 34-38; Varney’s Const 33-39. High Game and Series - L. Watson 179; M. Moore 182; R. White 175; Colleen S. 173; J. Zaagman 201; T. Dickinson 160; M. Weiler 154; J. Wood 138; C. Purdum picked up 3-710 split. Sat. Majors (Youth League) Strikers 32-16; Leones 31-17; Whatever 22.5-25.5; Zombies 21.5-26.5; Hastings Bowl 20.5-27.5; Great Balls of Fire 16.5-31.5. Good Games and Series Girls - C. Wallace 177; C. Roush 130. Good Games and Series Boys - K. Kavanagh 130-374; W. Arnold 174-503; J. Elliott 114-300; J. Johnson 141; J. Ulrich 134348; J. Clous 124; K. Kenyon 121; J. Thompson 165-449; T. Cheeseman 105. Thornapple Kellogg’s Shelby Tedrow powers her way through the lane as Caledonia’s Asia Slagter (left) swats at the ball during the first half Friday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) “And that’s not to take anything away from Wayland, but until somebody else beats us that’s what we’re looking at.” That and getting ready for districts are the long-term goals for the Scots. They met a number of their short-term goals Friday, holding TK under 25 points, outrebounding the Trojans 35-23, committing just 12 turnovers and earning 24 free throws in the game. They were 17-of-24 at the foul line. Lexi Miller led the Scots with 18 points and three assists. The Scots also got eight points from Jozwik, seven each from McKayla Gehrls, Emily DeVries and Reyni Harvey, and six from Hanna Lahiff. Harvey had a team-high five rebounds. Asia Slagter and Shelby O’Brien had five steals each. Thornapple Kellogg’s girls are now 2-8 overall and 1-4 in the O-K Gold. The Trojans kept hustling and kept working. They did outscore the Scots 9-7 in the fourth quarter. Shelby Tedrow led TK with ten points. TK also got four points from Kelli Graham. Sydney Krol had three points and a team-high five rebounds for TK. TK bounced back Tuesday night, scoring a 41-23 non-conference victory over visiting Kelloggsville. TK raced out to a 14-4 lead and didn’t look back, pushing its advantage to 23-12 at the half. Tedrow had ten points, Graham eight, Molly Lark seven and Crystal Smith (who missed the Caledonia contest) had six points. The Trojans will host Hamilton Friday, then return to league action at Ottawa Hills Tuesday. DK girls win two more KVA games Delton Kellogg’s varsity girls’ basketball team finishes off the first half of the Kalamazoo Valley Association season at Pennfield Friday night. The Delton Panthers are off to a 7-1 start in the league thanks to a couple more league victories in the last week. Delton topped visiting Schoolcraft 48-35 Tuesday evening. Panther head coach Mike Mohn said that junior guard Brooke Martin played the best game he’d ever seen her play as she pumped in 14 points to lead the way for Delton. Martin stepped up with Adrianna Culbert in foul trouble much of the game and Andrea Polley battling an illness. Those two still helped out though, with Culbert finishing with eight points and Polley ten. Mohn said his team also got a great defensive effort out of Alea Hammond. “She didn’t score much, she had four points, but she just was dynamite on the defensive end today,” said Mohn. Delton started slow, but then a six-point run by Polley at the end of the first quarter helped her team build a 14-9 advantage. The Panthers pulled away from the Eagles in the second half in part because of an improved free throw shooting performance. Delton was 10-of-15 at the foul line. “It was just a nice win,” Mohn said. “We’ve been kind of playing a little sluggish. We started sluggish, but we finished really strong. Real big one for us tonight. I’m real, real pleased.” The 10-of-15 performance at the free throw line wasn’t great, but it was better than what the Panthers had been shooting at the line coming into the game. They were just 11-of21 on Saturday against Galesburg-Augusta, but managed to hold on for a 47-44 win over the visiting Rams. “It wasn’t the prettiest defensive game,” Mohn said. “I was a little disappointed with our closing out. That’s been a strength of ours so far this year and we just didn’t do it tonight. Typical scrappy G-A Rams bunch, who make it very difficult. They shot the ball pretty well tonight. I don’t know what their percentage was, but it was a lot better than ours.” Culbert had a big night for Delton in the win, finishing with 14 points, 12 rebounds, three steals and five deflected passes. Polley poured in 12 points, to go along with three assists. Rachel Parker also had three assists for Delton. The Panthers didn’t shoot very well, but they did take care of the basketball. They had just nine turnovers all night. Delton is now 9-1 overall this season. After Friday’s trip to Pennfield, the Delton girls will try and avenge their only loss of the season so far when they host Olivet Tuesday. Chad Curtis named the next LHS varsity football coach Chad Curtis has been all around Lakewood athletics for the past few years. He’s got an official varsity position now. Lakewood High School named Curtis its next varsity football coach Friday. Interviews were completed Tuesday evening at the high school Tuesday, and the hiring committee recommended Curtis to the administration. Lakewood athletic director Bill Barker said that the committee interviewed four strong candidates, and that the Lakewood community should be thankful to have such quality people apply. “Coach Curtis has been working with Lakewood athletes for the past two and years, and has been very involved in the Lakewood Youth Football program and a mainstay in the weight room,” said Barker in a statement Friday. “The dedication, commitment and respect for Lakewood athletes shown over the past few years demonstrated his passion for Lakewood,” added Barker. “We are excited about Chad Curtis being our new football coach.” Curtis previous coached varsity football at NorthPointe Christian High School in Grand Rapids, where he also served as athletic director. He also had a stint as the Caledonia varsity baseball coach, and has coached high school equestrian teams including the Lakewood team which won the Division D state title this fall. He is also a former Major League Baseball outfielder. He was drafted by the California Angels in 1989, and spent time with the Angles, New York Yankees, Detroit Tigers, Toronto Blue Jays, Texas Rangers and Los Angeles Dodgers in a Major League career that lasted from 1992 until 2001. �Page 16 — Thursday, January 19, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Big second-half rally gets Scots by the Trojans by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Caledonia varsity boys’ basketball head coach Todd Bloemers hopes his boys learned a lesson Friday night. “We’re trying to get our guys to understand that playing smart is just as important as playing hard, and activity doesn’t equal achievement,” said Bloemers after his team’s 59-47 O-K Gold Conference victory over Thornapple Kellogg. The Fighting Scots trailed the Trojans by 11 points at the half, 31-20, and rallied finally pulling even with and then past the Trojans early in the fourth quarter. Caledonia put full-court pressure on the Trojans all evening long, but switched from a zone press to a man-to-man look in the second half. They also stopped reaching and bumping in the process. “The first half they pressed us and we were able to get the ball up the floor and get some easy looks,” said TK head coach Mike Rynearson. “They didn’t change much, but they adjusted it so they played a little bit more man pressure. The same look, and they were looking to trap if it was available. Mainly the just pressured the ball, hounded it and zigzagged it up the floor and we couldn’t handle the pressure.” On the offensive end of the floor, the Scots stopped passing the ball around the perimeter of the Trojans’ 2-3 zone and settling for threes. They got the ball inside and eventually forced the Trojans to a man-to-man look where the Scots could be more effective at getting to the basket with their quickness. “We made a little bit of an adjustment defensively and tried to stick to our man instead of our zone principles, which proved effective, but at the same time the offensive adjustment was we needed to be on the attack more. Our goal was to shoot more than 20 free throws and take fewer than 12 threes and we did both of those things tonight.” The Scots didn’t look to be on pace to reach those goals in the first half. They were 2-of-9 from behind the three-point line in the first half, and attempted just three free throws. Caledonia finished the night 23-of-33 at the free throw line, a number which was helped a little by the Trojans’ late efforts to extend the game by fouling, and did attempt just three more threes in the second half. Caledonia started the second half on a 14-2 run, pulling ahead 34-33 with just over two and a half minutes to play on a couple of free Thornapple Kellogg’s Greg Hamilton looks to dribble by Caledonia’s Thacker Hisey during the second half Friday night. (Photo by Brett Bremer) throws by Stephen Spencer. The Trojans got back in front with a couple of drives to the basket by Greg Hamilton that resulted in a couple of buckets. TK led 39-35 in the first minute of the fourth quarter, but the Scots took the lead for good with a13-0 run over the next four and a half minutes. Caledonia got 15 points and five rebounds from Myles Martin, 14 points, seven rebounds and three steals from Spencer, and 12 points and six rebounds from Michael Ruddock. Kail Venema chipped in seven points and six rebounds and Thacker Hisey had six points and four boards. Spencer was 8-of-11 at the free throw line, and Miller was 8-of-12. TK was 10-of-17 at the free throw line in the first half, but earned just one free throw attempt in the second half. “It was a total reversal in the second half,” Rynearson said. “They made some adjustments. We played a 2-3 zone pretty much the entire first half. Then they started getting the ball in the paint and attacking that way, where in the first half they were just kind of passing the ball around the perimeter and looking for the three. “They made some adjustments and as soon as they did we came out of it and went man, and they’re quick. One of the reasons we went 2-3 was to try and keep them in front of us. You know they just executed in the second half and we didn’t. You’ve got to play 32 minutes of basketball and we pretty much played 16.” Hamilton had 27 points for TK. Brendon Hudson finished with five, and no one else had more than four points. DJ Nolff finished with three points and a team-high seven rebounds. Both teams are now 7-3 overall and 3-2 in the O-K Gold Conference, as both won non- Thornapple Kellogg’s Brendon Hudson tries to push the ball up past Caledonia’s Myles Miller during the fourth quarter Friday at Caledonia High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) conference contests Tuesday. The Scots topped visiting Otsego 57-48. TK scored a 65-54 win over Kelloggsville in Wyoming. The Trojans jumped out to a 20-10 lead in the opening quarter and never looked back, as Caden Francisco and Hamilton poured in 18 points each. TK also got 12 points from Nolff and six from Jordan Timm. Kelloggsville got 22 points from Alston Ferrell and nine from Cody Williams. TK will host Hamilton for a non-conference contest Friday, then returns to O-K Gold Conference action at home against Ottawa Hills Tuesday. Saxons hold slim lead all night against Lakewood by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Vikings were right there, nipping at the Saxons’ heels all evening. They were never able to catch them though. Hastings’ varsity boys’ basketball team built a 10-5 lead in the first quarter Tuesday in its non-conference contest with visiting Lakewood, and then held a lead between two and about five points for the rest of the evening. “It was a typical Lakewood/Hastings game. A very physical game,” said Hastings head coach Don Schils. “We played Lakewood last year and I was pretty impressed with the improvements they’ve made since last year. They did a much better job of running their offensive and defensive systems. Mark Farrell knows what he’s doing and he’s getting them back into shape.” Both teams struggled to score points. Keith Garber kept the Saxons in front, scoring all ten of his points in the second half. He had eight in the third quarter alone as the Saxons extended a 21-18 half-time lead to 32-27 by the end of three. “Keith kind of got us going by driving to the basket,” Schils said. “He was able to get by. That’s definitely one of Keith’s strengths. He gets to the basket pretty well and finishes pretty high for his size.” Hastings also got nine points from Maxwell Clark and eight each from Danny Buehler and Eric Hart. Clark had four steals as well. David Parks led Lakewood with 16 points. He knocked down five threes. In the end, the Saxons held off Lakewood Lion wrestlers win one of two duals at Galesburg-Augusta Maple Valley’s varsity wrestling team managed to split its two duals at GalesburgAugusta on the first night of the Kalamazoo Valley Association wrestling season Wednesday. The Lions eat the host Rams 58-18 while falling 70-10 to Constantine. The only winners in the dual with the Falcons for Maple Valley were Austin Davis and Andrew Zank. Davis pinned Cody Scarberry 56 seconds into their 112-pound match. At 140 pounds, Zank defeated Cody Hartwick 12-1. The Lions won seven matches by forfeit against Galesburg-Augusta, and added a win from Kodee Crouch at 103 pounds and pins by Jake Milbauer at 130 and Darius France at 171 pounds. “We didn’t wrestle as well tonight as we did this weekend,” Lion coach Tony Wawiernia said. “We were very flat and didn’t finish moves like we did in Edwardsburg.” The Lions were scheduled to return to action in the league Wednesday when they headed to Schoolcraft to take on Pennfield and the host Eagles. They’ll be back at it Saturday at the Bellevue Tournament, then face Delton Kellogg and Olivet in league action at Pennfield High School Jan. 25. by knocking down five of their last six free throw attempts. Buehler hit three of those, and Luke Heide hit two. Hastings is now 6-4 overall. All four of those losses have come in O-K Gold Conference action. Ottawa Hills topped the Saxons 50-35 in league action in Grand Rapids Friday. The Bengals ran out to a 9-0 lead in the first quarter and led the entire contest. “We got off to a slow start,” Schils said. “We just started out very tentative. Their manto-man pressure is second to none in our league, and we gave up some easy baskets by turning the ball over.” The Bengals pushed their lead to double digits in the second quarter, and led 25-12 at the half. The Saxons’ poor offensive execution led points for the Bengals, but Schils was happy with his team’s defensive effort - especially the work Clark and Ian Beck slowing down the Bengals’ leading scorer Shakur Sanders. Sanders, averaging about 18 points per game this season, finished with just eight points. Daryl White led the Bengals with 13 points and Antoine Wilson scored ten. Hastings got 14 points from Eric Hart and six points and six assists from Buehler. Buehler was able to penetrate and get the ball to Hart in good scoring position a number of times, and only turned the ball over twice himself. Hastings as a team though turned the ball over 22 times. The Saxons have Friday night off, then will be back in action at Wayland Tuesday. The Saxons’ Michael Eastman (right) and Danny Buehler (back) team up to try and prevent Lakewood’s Dylan Durkee from going up with a shot in the lane Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The Saxons’ Keith Garber (24) rises above Lakewood’s Spencer Palmer for two points during Tuesday night’s non-conference contest in Hastings. (Photo by Perry Hardin) After slow start Viking girls Delton cheer has no trouble get going to get past Perry winning first SMCCC meet Round three was the only one that was even close. Delton Kellogg’s varsity competitive cheer team won the first Southern Michigan Competitive Cheer Conference jamboree of the season at White Pigeon Wednesday. The Panthers finished more than 26 points ahead of runner-up White Pigeon. Round three was the only one the Panthers didn’t win by double digits. Delton finished the day with a total score of 655.9150. White Pigeon scored a 629.2, followed by Bronson 603.4080, Pennfield 591.9150, Maple Valley 575.1823 and Schoolcraft 557.4500. The Maple Valley Lions scored a 179.7 in round one, a 159.1823 in round two and a 236.6 in round three. Schoolcraft led the Lions heading into the third round, but the Lions outscored the Eagles by 28.2 points in round three. Delton Kellogg and White Pigeon were much closer than that in the third round, with Delton scoring a 272.3 and White Pigeon a 271.3. Delton also scored a 202 in round one and a 181.6150 in round two. White Pigeon scored a 191.1 in round one and a 166.8 in round two. Delton Kellogg followed up that performance with a trip to the Blue Devil Invitational at Gull Lake High School Saturday, where the Panthers were first among the Division 3 teams at the event, and 11th among the 20 varsity teams overall. The Panthers scored a 195.6 in round one, a 177.3212 in round two and a 242.7 in round three for a final total of 615.9212 points. With great round one and two performances, Gobles was the overall champion on the day. Gobles finished with a score of 710.4800, scoring a 215.6 in round one a 206.3800 in round two and a 288.5 in round three. Those were the best round one and two scores of the event. Portage Central had the top round three score, a 291.0. Plainwell was second in the overall standings with a 695.9424, followed by Portage Central 686.4486, Napoleon 681.8000 and Byron Center 680.1292 in the top five. by Brett Bremer Sports Editor It can be a little tough to shake off the rust after long bus rides in the Capital Area Activities Conference White Division. It took much of the first half for the Lakewood varsity girls’ basketball team to get going at Perry Friday night, but the Vikings eventually got the kinks out and scored a 48-34 league win over the host Ramblers. “You have to give some of the credit to Perry, they came out and played hard,” said Lakewood head coach Denny Frost, who saw his team fall behind 12-5 in the opening quarter. “We settled down and started to work a little harder on the defensive end and that led to some easy baskets.” The Vikings outscored the Ramblers 16-7 in the second quarter to take a 21-19 lead into the break, then added a 15-5 run in the third quarter to take control of the game. “We really discussed playing with a purpose at the defensive end and taking our time at the offensive end,” said Frost. “Emily Kutch was big in the second and third quarters.” Kutch finished the night with a game-high 16 points, as well as four rebounds and three assists. Frost said that Madi King and Brooke Wieland did their usual good work on the defensive end, making it hard for Perry to get into its offensive sets. Hannah DeJong had another good all-around game as well. King finished with nine points and a gamehigh ten rebounds, as well as three assists and five steals. DeJong had ten points, and Wieland finished with six points, seven rebounds and five steals. Kristin Hilley added five points. When the starters’ work was done the Viking reserves got to take over. Liz Campeau scored her first varsity point in the contest. “It was nice to get a few other girls in at the end off the game. They have worked so hard and deserve more playing time,” Frost said. “Our bench came in and did a nice job of executing things at the end. They broke the press and finished the game in a good fashion.” Perry was led by Michelle Billington, who finished with 12 points. Lakewood’s Tuesday night Hoops for Hope contest with Hastings was postponed due to a power outage. No make-up date has been set yet. Friday Lakewood will return to conference action at home against Lansing Catholic. The Vikings are now 3-7 overall this season, having won three of their last four ball games, and 2-2 in the CAAC-White. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 19, 2012 — Page 17 Hastings girls second to TK again, but win round 2 The Saxon stunt groups come together during their round three performance at Caledonia High School Wednesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Lowell/Caledonia team tops Unity Knights in league action The Unity Knights’ Taylor Klotz races ahead with the puck during Saturday’s contest with Bishop Foley at the Edge. (Photo by Perry Hardin) A good start, and then a rough patch. That could describe the Unity Knight’s OK Conference Tier III season, as well as Wednesday evening’s 11-1 league loss to Lowell/Caledonia. Unity opened its season with back-to-back league wins over the Grand Rapids Public Schools team, and has since gone without a win in its last five league contests. Unity scored on the first shift of the game, 26 seconds in, against Lowell/Caledonia at the Grand Rapids Edge ice arena. “I am not sure any of our players expected that kind of start,” said Lowell/Caledonia head coach Tim Beurer. After that, Lowell/Caledonia took control of the game and scored the next six goals of the first period to take a 6-1 lead. Collin Finkhouse had two of the six goals in the first period for Lowell/Caledonia, then scored two more in the second period as the game ended early. Lowell/Caledonia is currently 5-0 in the league, and 12-1 overall. The Unity Knights followed up that contest with a 5-2 loss to Bishop Foley in nonconference action at the Edge Saturday. The entire O-K Conference Tier III will be playing Saturday at the Edge. The Unity Knights play in the day’s final contest, against South Christian, at 7 p.m. Unity will follow up that contest with a home game against West Ottawa Wednesday evening. LHS girls win first league jamboree It wasn’t a smooth performance, but a big round two helped the Lakewood varsity girls’ competitive cheer team win the first Capital Area Activities Conference Blue/White Division Jamboree of the season Wednesday at Portland. The Vikings edged runner-up Lansing Catholic by just over three points, despite the Cougars besting the Vikings in the first round and in the third. Lakewood finished with day with a total score of 691.5932. Lansing Catholic scored a 688.2488, followed by Corunna 662.0166, Grand Ledge 650.6560, Portland 621.4416 and Williamston 585.5384. Lakewood scored a 201.9932 in round two, which was good enough to get it in front of the Cougars. Viking head coach Kim Martin said her team had a lot of motion mistakes in a round one performance which netted it a score of 214.1 and a rough round three in which it scored a total of 275.5 points. The Vikings were third in round three, behind Lansing Catholic and Corunna. Lansing Catholic scored a 214.4 in round one, a 192.5488 in round two and a 281.3 in round three. “We have to come back on the 25th with a lot more focus than we had Wednesday if we are going to take meet number two, which is at Lansing Catholic,” Martin said. “The girls are capable of much better.” Grand Ledge was in third-place heading into round three, a round in which Corunna passed the Comets by outscoring them 279.1 to 260.1. Saturday Lakewood will host 26 middle school, JV and varsity teams at the Lakewood Invitational. The middle school and junior varsity competitions begin at 9 a.m., with the varsity teams set to begin performing at 1 p.m. The Trojans were very happy with their round one performance, a 219.2. They had an 11.1-point lead over Hastings after a round one in which the Saxons scored a 208.1. “I’m excited that I’m already at a 696 and it’s the beginning of the season,” said Hastings head coach Amy Hubbell. “Still shooting for that 700, but I’m excited. They’re doing well. My kids are doing well. We make little improvements at every practice. They’re fighting for it. They want it and they’re fighting for it.” The Saxons were second in the two rounds they didn’t win. TK outscored Hastings 292 to 281.9 in round three. Kanitz was happy with the way her team bounced back from the rough round two in round three. “They’re always good,” Hubbell said of the Trojans. “(Kanitz) is amazing at putting together such a clean round three. It’s amazing. They do a great job. “It’s nice to have them to compete against because my kids watch them and it inspires them to get better. It’s nice to have that. If you have that level to shoot for, that’s a good thing. It gives you somebody to chase.” The Saxons were ahead of the Trojans in round two because of their energy. “They worked hard,” Hubbell said. “The energy level, that’s the thing for me. That’s the one thing everybody else beats us on is the energy level, that confidence. They need that confidence that yes they can win.” The league was scheduled to get together again at Wayland Wednesday. Hastings is back in action Saturday at the Lakewood Cheerfest. The Hastings girls work through their round three routine Wednesday at Caledonia High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Saxons play their game to win in G.R. Hastings accomplished nearly all of its goals Friday, including the big one. The Saxon varsity girls’ basketball team knocked off Ottawa Hills 40-34 in Grand Rapids, earning its first win of the season. The Saxons played some of their best offense of the season, and tightened up their defense in the second half to pull past the Bengals. “We know going into Ottawa Hills’ gymnasium that we had to set some specific goals,” said Hastings head coach Steve Laubaugh. “Those were to play with discipline and control the tempo, because they love to play at a helter-skelter pace that we aren’t very good at; and then to match them on the boards, because they are bigger than us, and their center is a load to handle.” The Bengals won the rebounding battle, but Laubaugh said his team did well enough to say them “held their own.” The key was the Saxons’ ability to control the tempo. “Dani Meredith, who is our tallest girl, became our point guard tonight,” said Laubaugh. “Their pressure is a man-to-man nature, so we just let her bring it up against their big girl - who was usually falling back. Then we ran a deliberate offense and focused on finding good shots - making them play defense for an extended period of time.” The Bengals clung to a 20-17 lead at the half, then went into a zone defense against the Saxons in the second half. Hastings expected that, and it was Taylor Carter who was the zone-buster. She hit a back-to-back threepointers in the third period to turn a five-point Bengal lead into a one-point Saxon advantage. She finished the night with 14 points. Grace Meade chipped in 11 points and five rebounds for the Saxons. Hastings also got six rebounds from Meredith, three assists each from Nichole Redman and Laken Meade, and four steals from Redman. “Ottawa took a time-out (after Carter’s two threes) and only played zone for one more possession, which we drew a good foul on, and then they switched back to a man the rest of the night,” Laubaugh said. “From there it was just about making good decisions, and limiting them to one shot.” The Saxons led 30-26 heading into the fourth quarter. “The girls felt great to get this one out of the way,” said Laubaugh. “We’ve got a pretty tough conference, so we have to take advantage of the match-ups that are favorable. This was a good win in a place that we historically have struggled in.” Hastings is now 1-9 overall this season, and 1-4 in the O-K Gold Conference. The Saxons’ contest at Lakewood was postponed Tuesday because of a power outage. Hastings will return to action at home against Wayland Tuesday. Delton boys’ basketball team falls for the first time The Kalamazoo Valley Association is down to one undefeated varsity boys’ basketball team after Schoolcraft’s 72-50 victory over visiting Delton Kellogg Tuesday. The host Eagles, ranked second in the state in Class C, raced out to a 21-9 lead. Delton cut into that a bit early in the second quarter, but then saw the Eagles respond to go into the half up 34-24. The Panthers are now 6-1 in the KVA this season. Schoolcraft is 5-1. Olivet, the only team to beat Schoolcraft this year, is currently 7-0 in the league. Ryan Watson led Delton Kellogg in the loss with 19 points. He knocked down a pair of threes and went 7-of-8 at the free throw line. Mitchell Wandell added ten points for Delton, and Nick Brindley and Norm O’Meara scored six points each. Schoolcraft had four players in double figures, led by Luke Ryskamp’s 23-point performance. He also had 13 rebounds. The Eagles also got 12 points from Benny Clark and ten each from Bryan Jones and Cam Schwartz. Delton scored its sixth win of the conference season Saturday, topping visiting Galesburg-Augusta 70-50. This time it was the Panthers jumping to an early lead. They doubled up the Rams 14-7 int he opening quarter, then outscored them 26-10 in the second to take a 40-17 lead into the half. Wandell had 18 points to lead Delton, while Adam May chipped in 15, and O’Meara and Watson had 11 each. Jordan Born paced the Rams with 18 points. Delton Kellogg has two tough road contests ahead, at Pennfield Friday and then at Olivet Tuesday. Delton is now 7-1 overall this season. Hastings eighth grade ‘A’ team undefeated once again The Hastings eighth grade boys’ basketball ‘A’ team was undefeated for the second season in a row this winter, finishing with a 23-0 record. Team members include (front from left) Austin Haywood, Aaron Denny, Justin Carlson, Clay Coltson, Scott Garber, manager Jon Shepler, (back) Alex McMahon, Lee Stowe, Owen Post, Taylor Harding, Tyler Youngs and coach Rich Long. SAXON WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE Complete online schedule at: www.hassk12.org THURSDAY, JANUARY 19 WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 25 6:00 PM Boys Varsity Swimming 6:00 PM Girls MS Cheer 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:30 PM 7:45 PM Unity Christian HS H All Conference @ HMS H SATURDAY, JANUARY 21 9:00 AM 9:00 AM 9:00 AM 9:00 AM 7:00 PM Boys Boys Girls Girls Boys Varsity JV Varsity JV Varsity Wrestling Wrestling Cheer Cheer Ice Hockey Tecumseh Duals Fowlerville Lakewood Cheer Fest Lakewood Cheer Fest South Christian HS A A A A H TUESDAY, JANUARY 24 4:00 PM 4:00 PM 5:30 PM 5:30 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM Boys Girls Boys Girls Boys Girls Fresh. Fresh. JV JV Varsity Varsity Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Wayland Union HS Wayland Union HS Wayland Union HS Wayland Union HS Wayland Union HS Wayland Union HS A H A H A H Times and dates subject to change HASTINGS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS Contact Nancy 945-2742 or hastingsathleticboosters@gmail.com to sponsor the schedule Boys Boys Boys Bys JV B Team Varsity Varsity Wrestling Wrestling Wrestling Ice Hockey Thornapple-Kellogg HS Thornapple-Kellogg HS Thornapple-Kellogg HS West Ottawa HS A A A H THURSDAY, JANUARY 26 4:30 PM 4:30 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM Boys Girls Boys Boys Boys Girls Fresh. Fresh. Varsity Varsity JV JV Basketball Basketball Swimming Swimming Basketball Basketball Forest Hills Eastern HS Forest Hills Eastern HS Grand Rapids Union Grand Rapids Union Forest Hills Eastern HS Forest Hills Eastern HS A H H H A H Thanks to This Week’s Sponsor: Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, P.C. “Quality Care with Compassion” 840 Cook Rd. Hastings, MI 49058 Phone: 269-945-9520 Toll Free: 800-596-1005 Contact us on the web @ www.hoc-mi.com 77565157 by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Thornapple Kellogg head coach Abby Kanitz said she didn’t need to bring up her team’s rough round two performance with her athletes Wednesday evening. The Trojans finished second to Hastings in the round with a score of 198.2078 at Caledonia High School in the second O-K Gold Conference jamboree of the season. “I don’t need to tell them,” Kanitz said. “Every team operates their own way. We have our own operating system and it works for us. They knew. I don’t need to tell them. They know. They’re hard on themselves. That’s a good thing. They push themselves.” Hastings scored a 206.342 in the round, marking the only round the Trojans haven’t won during the league season thus far. TK won for the second time in two league jamborees this season, finishing with a threeround score of 709.8078 Wednesday. Hastings was second for the second time in the league this season, with a score of 696.342. Wayland was third at 668.219, followed by Catholic Central 654.489 and Caledonia 623.3668. “A win is a win I guess,” Kanitz said. “It wasn’t the pretties win, but it was a win.” “There were obvious drops in (round) three, but (round) two was by far our biggest downfall this evening. We don’t want to peak yet. We’ll keep working. I don’t think there’s anything major. It’s all there, it’s just putting it together. They have before, so I know that they can and they will.” �Page 18 — Thursday, January 19, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Volunteers will spend weekend in County has numerous cardboard homes to raise funds, awareness homeless students by David DeDecker Staff Writer From Jan. 20 to Jan. 23, Helping Hands Ministry will be hosting a fundraiser and raising awareness of homelessness in Barry County. Organizers Steve Jordan, John Nash and Keara Hilton hope to raise enough money to purchase a house to convert into Barry County’s first homeless shelter. Jordan and many others will live in primitive conditions, no matter what weather the weekend brings. The group will live in boxes, eat symbolically from a garbage can, and have a single barrel fire to gather around for warmth. Proceeds from the fundraiser will be split between the Barry County United Way, Love Inc. and Helping Hands Ministry in an effort to help local homeless families. “Right now in the homeless system, there are gaps,” said Jordan. “If you’re a single female that’s homeless, there is nothing for you in Barry County. If you’re a man with children and you’re homeless, there’s nothing in the area. If you’re a woman with children, but not battered, and you’re homeless, there’s nothing for you. “Green Gables is the closest thing we have to a homeless shelter in Barry County.” Barry County United Way estimates that in 2011, the county had 234 homeless people. The rally at Tires-N-Such, on the corner of Heath Road and M-37 west of Hastings, begins at noon Friday. The public is encouraged to visit and participate. “We are asking the community to come out an support us financially and bring some food, because if they don’t, we don’t eat,” said Jordan. For the rest of the meals, participants will be eating from a garbage can. Unlike actual Dumpster scavenging, which some homeless people are forced to do for nourishment, rally participants will take individually wrapped portions from the can. At 6 p.m. Friday, the group will have a can- Many people are only one paycheck away from being homeless. From Jan. 20 to Jan. 23, Helping Hands Ministry will be hosting a fundraiser to raise awareness of homelessness in Barry County. (Photo courtesy of Maggie Smith) dlelight service for the homeless in Barry Helping Hands Ministry is part of Thornapple County. Candles will be provided. Valley Church, and the church is carrying lia“If anyone has been homeless, or knows bility insurance for the event. someone who is or was homeless, they can “Every penny that comes into Helping grab a candle and be part of the ceremony, as Hands Ministry goes out to the public,” said well,” Jordan said. “We will be doing a bless- Jordan. ing for safety over the weekend. “Our goal is $100,000. However, God is Saturday will feature homeless-style live control of all of it, so if He brings us $500 music around the fire. The public is welcome that’s awesome. If He brings me $500,000 to bring instruments and join in. that’s also awesome. God’s in the miracle As of Jan. 13, five adults were signed up to business. I don’t see why it can’t happen. spend the weekend in cardboard shelters with “We would like to purchase a building on only the barrel fire for warmth. The TVC preferrably two to three acres for a garden and youth groups of sixth through 12th graders playground. are invited to participate with parents or “Next year, when we do this, we will be guardians. looking for businesses to jump on board and “I am expecting 20-plus participants,” said sponsor us monthly to keep the shelter Jordan. going.” Saturday and Sunday mornings, Mercy For more information on the event, call Ambulance will arrive to check all overnight Jordan at 269-908-1210. participants for hypothermia and exposure. by David DeDecker Staff Writer Barry County has a growing number of individuals and families who qualify as homeless. The Barry County United Way served 90 homeless families in 2011, and their records show 234 homeless individuals in the county last year. Currently, Delton Kellogg Schools have 160 students who are considered homeless under the McKinney-Vento Act. Maple Valley Schools have 41 students; Lakewood, 34; Thornapple Kellogg, 60; and Hastings has 81 students who qualify. The goal of the McKinney-Vento Act is to ensure homeless students have equal or same access to education as the non-homeless students. “They are the children living in homes meant to house one family but instead houses multiple families, the teenager sleeping on a friend’s couch night after night, or the single dad temporarily living in his parent’s basement,” said Maple Valley School Superintendent Ronna Steel. Homelessness is defined by U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development as an individual or family who lacks a fixed, regular and adequate nighttime residence and an individual or family who has a primary nighttime residence that is a supervised publicly or privately operated shelter designed to provide temporary living accommodations, including welfare hotels, congregate shelters, and transitional housing for the mentally ill. Students are classified as homeless under seven possible categories: Living in a shelter, transitional housing, awaiting foster care placement, doubled-up, hotel or motel, unsheltered or unaccompanied youth. Each school has special homeless student liaison who helps identify students and pro- vide resources the students need to be successful. A majority of students qualify under the McKinney-Vento Act categories of doubled up — living with another family — and unaccompanied youths, students who are not living with a parent or guardian. Many schools offer immediate enrollment and free breakfast and lunch for homeless students. Some schools wave the pay-toplay sports fee for qualifying students. Many students are provided backpacks, school supplies, hygiene products, clothing and transportation to school. In extreme circumstances, districts may also help students with school trips, uniforms and athletic shoes. Costs not covered by the intermediate school district consortium grants or other programs may need to come out of the school’s general fund, if mandated by law. The root cause of homelessness, according to HUD is prolonged poverty. Homelessness is usually the result of a complex set of personal and structural circumstances that push people into poverty and force impossible choices between food, shelter, medical expenses and other basic needs. Often, housing (which absorbs a high proportion of income) must be dropped. Being poor is defined as being only an illness, an accident or a paycheck away from living on the streets. Other contributors to homelessness include housing inequality and unavailability, poor work opportunities, a decline in available public assistance, failure of the health care system, domestic violence, mental illness or substance abuse. For more information on homeless resources, call the Barry County United Way at 269-945-4010. Parents may call their students’ school to talk with the designated homeless student liaison. TK wrestlers 2-0 in league Hastings wrestlers win half after victory over Wayland their duals Saturday at Lowell Hastings faced its toughest day of wrestling so far this season on Saturday at the Lowell Duals. The Saxon varsity team was 2-2 on the day, bumping its overall record to 14-4 so far this season. Hastings beat Sturgis 50-21 and White Lake-Lakeland 61-13, while also falling 40-19 to Grand Haven and 42-28 to Byron Center. “Top to bottom this was the toughest tournament we have been in so far,” said Hastings coach Mike Goggins. “There were 16 teams there and they were all ready to wrestle. We wrestled well, but our inexperience showed when we went against a polished team like Grand Have or Byron Center. In the long run, testing ourselves against teams like these will make us better.” Hastings had two wrestlers, Jason Slaughter at 140 pounds and Kenny Cross at 160, who were 4-0 on the day. Aaron Williams at 103 pounds, Shane Tossava at 119, Nate Pewoski at 215 and Mike Pewoski at 285 all won three matches. The Saxons got their first O-K Gold Conference win of the season Wednesday, topping Grand Rapids Catholic Central 4218. Williams at 103 pounds, Zach Wilcox 112, Shane Tossava 119, Joey Siska 135, Chase Huisman 145, Stephen Kendall 152, Cross 160, Pewoski 215 and Mike Pewoski at 285 all won their matches. Goggins said that big wins from Tossava and Kendall really sealed the victory for the Saxon team over the much improved Cougars. The victory was the 300th varsity win for Goggins. David Born added a win in a JV match for Hastings on the night. The Saxons, who are now 1-1 in the league, were scheduled to face Wayland in conference action Wednesday night. They’ll be at the Tecumseh Invitational Saturday, then return to league action at Thornapple Kellogg Wednesday evening. The Saxon varsity team wasn’t the only one in action Saturday. The Hastings ‘B’ team won its own dual tournament, knocking off Hudsonville ‘B’, Grandville ‘B’ and Godwin Heights. The Trojan’s Nick Flynn controls Wayland’s Chaz VanDrunen on the mat during their 125-pound match Wednesday evening in Middleville. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Thornapple Kellogg’s Peter Westra closes in on a pin of Wayland’s RJ Molette during the first period of their 189-pound bout Wednesday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) 07590389 Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity wrestling team improved to 2-0 in the O-K Gold Conference with a 51-16 victory over Wayland Wednesday in Middleville. The Trojans won every weight class from 145 pounds on up. Those wins included pins by Oscar Cardosa at 145 pounds, Cole Gahan at 152, Cody Ybema at 160, Dan Dykstra at 171 and Peter Westra at 189 pounds. That stretch also featured a 7-1 decision by Austin Koehl over Travis Teague at 215 pounds and a forfeit win for Adrian Foster at 285. TK also had three major decisions from its lightweights. Chris Poland beat Gavin Shanley 10-0 at 103 pounds. Nick Flynn topped Chaz VanDrunen 16-6 at 125. Paul Haney defeated Zach Longhurst 16-5 at 130 pounds. Wayland got a major decision from Jovy Bileth at 112 pounds, a pin from Derek Fifelski at 135 and a win by Zach Corey at 140. The Trojans were scheduled to be at home Wednesday, taking on league foes Forest Hills Eastern and Ottawa Hills. They’ll face Hastings in a conference dual Jan. 25 in Middleville. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-01-26.pdf 3e55728a86a470671b66dd90b133b1c8 PDF Text Text Local school boards discuss collaboration Media overreacts to teacher’s response Olivet leads KVA after beating DK girls again See Story on Page 5 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 15 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 4 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, January 26, 2012 Hastings teacher returns to classroom NEWS Tempest in a teapot BRIEFS Amateur radio buffs hosting winter field day Members of the Barry County Radio Association, who will be taking part in the sixth annual Winter Field Day this weekend, are extending an invitation to anyone interested in amateur radio to visit them at the Barry Emergency Operations 911 Dispatch Center adjacent to Thornapple Manor on Nashville Road. Winter Field Day is a nationwide test of the emergency amateur radio system and will he held from noon Saturday until noon Sunday. Members of the local association, which also conducts a similar field day each June, will be demonstrating communications equipment that uses Morse code, digital signals, telephone and satellites to provide an emergency response network. The object of the event is to set up emergency-style communications and make as many contacts as possible during the 24-hour period. The rules encourage as many contacts on as many bands and modes as possible, simulating a real emergency in which the most important factor is the ability to communicate, regardless of band, mode or distance. The local club was formed in 1955. For more information, visit www.barryamateurradioassociation.com or call Association President Tim Brauer at 269721-8312. Special Hastings school board meeting set The Hastings Board of Education will meet at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 30, to take action to hold a millage election Tuesday, May 8, and review applications for the superintendent position. The meeting will be in the multi-purpose room of Hastings Middle School, 233 W. Grand St. ‘Understanding Islam’ topic of ILR class “Understanding Islam” will be the topic of an Institute for Learning in Retirement class Wednesdays, Feb. 1 to March 7. Instructor Michael Anton will provide an overview of the history, teaching and growth of the Muslim faith. The class will also include a visit to an Islamic mosque. The six-session class will meet from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Kellogg Community College Fehsenfeld Center on West Gun Lake Road in Hastings. Fee information may be obtained or registration made by visiting the office at the KCC Fehsenfeld Center or by calling the ILR Coordinator Connie Dawe at 269-948-9500, ext. 2803. simmers down by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Tuesday, Jan. 17, Hastings High School French and Spanish teacher Vickie Sleevi set off a local and national media maelstrom when she used a cup of tea to stop a fight between two male students. As second semester started a week later Sleevi, who was placed on administrative leave Jan. 18, returned to the classroom amid a groundswell of support from students, community members and the Hastings Area Schools administration. “As a district, we support our staff. We encourage staff to maintain order in our schools,” said Hastings Area Schools Interim Superintendent Michelle Falcon. “I appreciate Mrs. Sleevi’s attempt to handle the situation, however, the method was not a good choice. This incident was unfortunate. Mrs. Sleevi is an effective teacher and is held in high regard.” Falcon said the Michigan School Code Vickie Sleevi allows school personnel to use reasonable force to maintain order and safety. “There is a board policy on student discipline, but it does not outline staff handling physical altercations,” said Falcon. “We will be reviewing policies in reference to student and staff safety.” The fight occurred at the school after the students, Dillon Anderson, 18, and Skyler Henion, 15, exchanged “trash talk” texting on their cell phones which escalated into a faceto-face verbal, then physical, altercation. Sleevi said she told the boys, in a clear, loud voice, to stop fighting. When the students didn’t stop, she asked nearby students to get the assistant principal. When those students didn’t respond, it was then that she threatened to pour the tea on the boys if they did not stop fighting. Once again, the students didn’t respond, and Sleevi poured the tea on the students to get their attention. The pair stopped fighting and appropriate disciplinary action was taken. “I had my book bag, purse and lunch in my arms and the tea had been out of the microwave for 45 minutes,” said Sleevi. “Arguably, it wasn’t the best thing to do; but, I had asked them to stop fighting and when they didn’t, my main thought was to prevent them from hurting each other.” Henion’s mother reported the incident to the Hastings City Police Department around 4:16 p.m. Officers interviewed the two students. Hastings Police Chief Jerry Sarver said a portion of Henion’s face was reddened but there was no blistering burn. A police report was filed and sent on to Barry County Prosecutor Tom Evans. However, Evans said that because the students involved in the fight, their parents, the police, and school officials did not wish to press charges, his office would not pursue the case. Sleevi, who has taught in Hastings Area Schools for 14 1/2 years, said she appreciated the outpouring of support she received from students, the community and administration. Students went to school Thursday sporting “Team Sleevi” T-shirts to show their support and a Team Sleevi Facebook page set up by a former Hastings High School student had more than 1,200 “likes” by the time she returned to the classroom earlier this week. Sleevi said when she returned to the classroom Tuesday, everything was back to normal. “I assigned homework on the first day of class, and everybody groaned,” she said. County board likes economic report by Doug VanderLaan Editor The financial image in the rear-view mirror might not be what the Barry County Board would prefer, but commissioners liked what they saw through the windshield and down the road during an economic update presentation during Tuesday’s regular monthly meeting. On hand to provide a quarterly update was Valerie Byrnes, president of the Barry County Economic and Development Alliance and of the Barry County Chamber of Commerce. Byrnes shared a wide range of 2011 economic highlights in the county, ranging from strategic partnerships and job-producing proj- ects to broadband computer development and tourism ventures. “Among our key economic development projects was the opening of the Finkbeiner/Crane Road bridge [in Middleville],” reported Byrnes. “Since the bridge has opened, we’ve already had a company relocate to the industrial park that will bring 25 jobs to the community over the next five years.” Other job developments highlighted were the relocation of H&L Manufacturing to Barry County, which brought 54 jobs, and the opening of the Bradford White Training Facility that will create 20 new jobs. Byrnes mentioned that, though a major milk processing operator had recently chosen a location nearer the Indiana border over Barry County, the area is still highly considered because of its proximity to dairy farms and producers. Negotiations continue with a hotel developer who has also been drawn to the economic potential of Barry County. Another indication of economic interest in the county is the continuing effort to bring broadband Internet service to the area. Byrnes cited a three-phased focus on which a broadband initiative committee with countywide representation has been working on during regular meetings throughout the county. “We’ve continued to look at the access to broadband that we have available, how we use and implement it, and what other resources we have available to support that effort,” she said. “We had five Internet providers attend our last meeting. Some of them were bigger companies, so that was very positive. They’re paying attention to the work that we’re doing. Since that time, I’ve had two more companies that weren’t on my list call and ask,, ‘How about us?’” Other regions are also asking that same question in regard to the county’s efforts to promote tourism. Byrnes reminded commissioners of the popularity of the Arts and Eats Tour last fall, and said expansion planning has See REPORT, page 5 Medical marijuana discussion draws hundreds to meeting by David DeDecker Staff Writer The room was packed at the Barry County Commission on Aging, on Jan. 24, for a twohour discussion about the Michigan Medical Marijuana Act (MMMA). Barry County’s State Representative Mike Callton, 5th Circuit Court Judge Amy McDowell and Medical Marijuana Advocate Ken Beyer made initial statements and then fielded questions from a crowd well-educated on the subject. Fred Jacobs, vice president of J-Ad Graphics, moderated the evening’s event. “Today, I want to get some understanding,” said Callton to a group of well over 200 in number. “I know there are some people here tonight to maybe K.O. me because I am involved in some Bills to put some controls on medical marijuana. I am not against medical marijuana. That’s the first thing I want understood. The voters passed a law back in 2008 and it was designed basically for compassionate care of certain classes of people in which medical marijuana has been shown to be effective -- glaucoma, appetite and chronic debilitating pain. “I am a chiropractor and have actually seen how this can help people. A cancer patient came to our office, with pancreatic cancer, he was in a lot of pain and in the long term was probably not going to make it. He was having trouble keeping his weight up. He said the Panelists field question about the Michigan Medical Marijuana Act (from left) State Representative Mike Callton, Judge Amy McDowell, and Medical Marijuana Advocate Ken Beyer. medical marijuana gave him an appetite, it helped him to eat and have strength. I saw that and it made a big impression on me. “I have had other patients with chronic debilitating pain. I want to differentiate between chronic debilitating pain and pain. Maybe it’s because I am a chiropractor, but I think everybody has some degree of pain. I might have a headache or bump my elbow, but that’s not what medical marijuana is designed for, it’s something for people with more serious conditions. I have talked with people with Crohn’s Disease and medical marijuana has really helped them manage See FORUM, page 2 Over 200 people packed the Commission on Aging for a “town-forum” on the Michigan Medical Marijuana Act. �Page 2 — Thursday, January 26, 2012 — The Hastings Banner FORUM, continued from page 1 Helping to sort clothing donated to the Hastings High School BPA chapter are (from left) Hannah Smith, Joe Smith, Tanner Roderick, Amber Pickard, Christine Maurer and Lindy Kloosterman. Hastings BPA collects more than $10,000 worth of clothing for Salvation Army Hastings High School Business Professionals of America chapter members, with the help of the Hastings community, have gathered more than 600 pounds of clothing for the Salvation Army clothing drive. The goal for the entire state of Michigan was 500 pounds. The Hastings BPA chapter reached this benchmark within the first two months of the competition. Donation boxes were placed at every school building in the district in early October. Since then, members have collected the clothing every week and brought it to the high school to be sorted. Earlier this month, some members of Hastings BPA finished sorting the clothes. They counted each piece of clothing, assessing a value according to state BPA guidelines. After all the sorting and counting, the collection showed more than 600 pounds of clothing, totaling $10,113. The chapter that gathers the most clothes, spends the most time and collects the most donations will receive a scholarship of $800; second place will receive a $400 scholarship. Hastings students are continuing to collect clothing until the end of February. Local residents wanting to contribute may place clothing in collection boxes located near or around the office of all Hastings schools. Business Professionals of America provides leadership and business opportunities for high school students to prepare them as they make decisions on their future careers. Hastings High School BPA Advisors are Andrew Mains and Tracy George, assisted by business paraprofessional Kourtney Meredith. Income eligibility guidelines changed for emergency food assistance program February is distribution month for The Emergency Food Assistance Program. The quarterly TEFAP distribution includes a box of food designed for low-income households. Each box has a variety of food such as fruit juice, canned meat, canned vegetables and canned fruit. As if Jan. 1, the income eligibility guidelines for the Emergency Food Assistance Program in Michigan changed significantly, allowing more households to receive assistance. Eligible individuals or households of any age must now have income at or below 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines. Community Action encourages eligible families to participate in these programs. Income-eligible households not currently signed up may complete a one-time declaration of eligibility to receive a food box. Households interested in receiving this food box quarterly should contact the Community Action office at 877-422-2726 to complete an application. For more information about TEFAP times and distribution locations, please call the Community Action office at 877-422-2726 or visit us online at www.caascm.org. 77565483 A full service accounting firm with a name you can trust! Hastings - Ionia 269-945-9452 Surprise Your Valentine with ... Valentine Love Lines 616-522-0792 their pain where other drugs did not help. I have a friend with Glaucoma, and medical marijuana helps him manage it without some of the side effects of the other drugs. “So, I am not against medical marijuana. My concern, with some of the Bills I have sponsored or have been involved, is that I want to make medical marijuana better. I want to elevate medical marijuana to the level of other drugs... Do you want to elevate medical marijuana or do you really want it to be seen as a recreational drug that’s pretending to be a medical drug? “The other concern I have is with doctors on the internet. I know it’s kind of Norman Rockwellian with the old-time doctor and patient who know each other, the doctor examines and diagnoses, and then a prescription is written. To me, that’s how things are done. Not where it is immediately assumed you are getting medical marijuana from a doctor who only does that, or does it on the internet. “So, I am involved with some Bills like that, not to eradicate medical marijuana. That’s not where I am coming from, but to elevate medical marijuana to where it will eventually need to be if it is to survive in the long term,” concluded Callton. Judge Amy McDowell stepped to the podium to make her initial statement. “I do agree with a lot of what Representative Callton said,” said McDowell. “I will tell you right up front, before the question is asked, I did vote for the Medical Marijuana Act. However, I did not envision at the time some of the consequences. I was recently at a meeting with the Attorney General and Representative Callton. The meeting was regarding the Medical Marijuana Act. There were some qualifying patients there and I listened to their stories and to the situations they were in, and to the concerns they had about finding themselves without alternative means - alternative medications which they felt worked best for them. They also had concerns because their primary physicians were not willing to write for [medical marijuana] due to federal law. Marijuana is still illegal under federal law and the physicians were afraid there would be a sanction against their [medical] license. People were forced to go to physicians they did not have a relationship with, and the physician was not interested in building a relationship. It was typically a situation that I have seen [advertised] in the paper where it’s ‘no records, no problem’ come and get your marijuana, it’s $90 for certification or renewal. “I don’t agree with that. I believe there should be a doctor-patient relationship, that it should truly be a chronic debilitating disease. The law as written had unintended consequences which people are finding out now. Part of what we are finding out is in the legal system.” McDowell explained cases that involved delivery or possession of marijuana before the person was certified or recommended by a physician to use medical marijuana. A second case involved there being no provision in the Act for sale of marijuana from one certified patient to another. A case in which McDowell recently ruled, and she expects to be appealed, found the Act protected patientto-patient transfers of medical marijuana without the exchange of money. “My decisions are no reflection on my personal opinions,” said McDowell. “My decisions are based strictly on the law and what I in The Hastings Banner Give Cupid a helping hand with a love line in The Hastings Banner. Compose your own message on the coupon provided, and mail to The Hastings Banner, P.O. Box B, Hastings, MI 49058. A special column will appear in the February 9th issue. Deadline is noon Tuesday, February 7th. Express your feelings to your wife, husband, parents, grandparents, grandchildren, relatives, teachers, best friend or anyone whom you would like to say thanks to for being so nice. The cost is “lovingly low,” just $5.15 for 16 words (additional words 15¢ each). Payment must accompany your message or be paid prior to publication. Enclosed please find my special prepaid Valentine Love Lines Compose Your Own Message Below Compose your own Valentine message—it’s easy to do!! Here are a couple of examples: KES HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY Sweet Beans! that You are the best thing DEAREST BABY CA ever happened to me! Love, Big Bear Our love is here Forever yours, H to stay. oney Bunny Deadline is Noon, Tues., February 7 77565182 NAME ADDRESS CITY TOTAL WORDS IN MESSAGE PHONE STATE ZIP TOTAL AMOUNT ENCLOSED At 16 words $5.15 plus 15¢ each additional word • Message to be published on February 9, 2012 interpret the law to be. That’s my job as a representative of all the citizens of Barry County, and that’s what I do.” Ken Beyer is with the Michigan Testing Authority and a Medical Marijuana Advocate. Beyer is involved with testing medical marijuana to make sure it is clean of pesticides, molds and other contaminants which may be harmful to patients, especially immune-compromised patients. Beyer uses a “Z-nose” testing device which is also used by Homeland Security to identify suspicious compounds. “Do you want to elevate medical marijuana or do you really want it to be seen as a recreational drug that’s pretending to be a medical drug?” - State Representative Mike Callton Beyer said he was on the panel to represent the medical marijuana community and asked people to raise their hand if they were a card holder. A large percentage of the attendants raised their hand. “We use our equipment to prove there are medical compounds in this amazing plant, which helps people,” said Beyer. “There are 160 different compounds which medical marijuana has. Ironically, our brain produces 160 chemicals just like that. It is a perfect synergistic fit. We can show with our testing that it is medicine. According to Beyer, before the Act was passed two and a half percent of the present medical marijuana user market was already using marijuana for medicinal purposes. Thirteen percent came into the market as early adapters of the Act. “What needs to happen, is there needs to be credibility,” said Beyer. “We need to bring credibility to this ourselves before somebody takes it away. Right now you have a bunch of responsible people looking for safe access to medical marijuana. The only way to get safe access is to actually test the marijuana.” Beyer said his equipment tests different strains of marijuana to see what characteristics the particular strain has, and then matches the plant’s compounds to the specific ailment it may relieve. His group has entered into an agreement with Wayne State University to study medical marijuana and seeks to make the plant prescribable and legitimate as a medication. Participants were then asked to submit questions in writing to the panel, and then were presented by moderator Jacobs. Questions such as: What can be done to protect the patients from caregivers who seem to be drug dealers? There is a petition circulating, what do you think will happen if voters approve the use of marijuana for people over the age of 21? How can we make sure cannabis is safe and easily available to people with no caregiver? What can be done for a person with no insurance to secure a long term relationship with a doctor? What do caregivers who grow medical marijuana do with the excess plant material? McDowell was confronted with grumbling and shouts of disapproval from the crowd when she said, “We do have an issue with marijuana here in Barry County. My concern is that with a lot of people, it is a segue to other drugs. There has to be some education.” Jacobs worked to keep the gathering under control and said nothing would be accomplished by shouting and insulting the panelists. McDowell continued, “I have been with the Drug Court for six months. The program has been in existence for seven years. That is what I have been told, it’s what the research shows. I do not want to have any issues, or have anyone relying on marijuana if they do not have a medical marijuana card. They have a card that was issued by someone [physician] they have a relationship with, who has truly determined they have a chronic debilitating disease. That’s what I voted for... valid care and monitoring of medication to make sure it is having its desired effect.” Callton said there are two competing issues which confuse the elevation of medical marijuana to legitimacy. He said legitimate medical use of the plant and the move to legalize marijuana for everyone are two separate issues. McDowell commented that one of the consequences of a poorly written act is there was no provision for dealing with operating a vehicle under the influence of marijuana, whether the driver possesses a card or not. The level of impairment has not been determined like with alcohol. Any amount of marijuana in the body’s system is considered illegal. Beyer spoke of a man suffering from congestive heart failure who had applied for medical marijuana card to help ease the disease, but it took so long to get the card approved the man had been dead one month when the card came in the mail. Many questions were asked and many questions remain. Participants agreed the discussion needs to continue on a public level to educate legislators, physicians and patients alike. The forum showed the Barry County community is concerned about the Michigan Medical Marijuana Act, and are willing to openly discuss legislation which serves the people. Most agreed the meeting was informative and educational, but more discussions and forums are wanted and needed. For more information on the MMMA, contact Representative Callton at 517-373-0842. For a list of resource links and scientific studies on medical marijuana, Ken Beyer recommends Googling “granny stormcrow.” �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 26, 2012 — Page 3 Local law enforcement officers take part in assault training The Barry County Sheriff SWAT team and Kellogg Community College counterterrorism adjunct instructor Jared Hall (left) debrief after the training exercise. Shooting for the future by Corinne Kellogg J-Ad News Services Local police officers and sheriff deputies stood side by side Tuesday in an effort to prepare for future defensives with an advanced vehicle and tubular, or linear, assault training at Kellogg Community College’s Aircraft Rescue Firefighter hangar at W.K. Kellogg Regional Airport. Approximately 60 local law enforcement officers gathered Jan. 17 from the Barry County Sheriff SWAT team, Battle Creek Police Department Emergency Response Team and the St. Joseph County Sheriff SWAT team to focus on operations surrounding critical incidents for bus, rail and aircraft. “There is a very real need to enhance readiness and preparedness on board mass transits,” said KCC counterterrorism adjunct instructor Jared Hall. The Battle Creek Police Department held a similar training in August 2011 at KCC’s main campus, but this is the first time they have trained collaboratively on this equipment with other law enforcement units. “We will keep pushing for this type of training the best we can,” said Battle Creek Police Department Emergency Response Team leader, Sgt. Jeff Case. “Joint training and helping other teams who are wanting to train is important to our department.” The instructors for this training are Hall, who has more than 10 years of experience in the Marine Corps and Army in special forces and was a contractor who ran the emergency response tactical team for the U.S. Embassy in Kabul, Afghanistan. Hall was joined by Andrew Fyfe, an emergency care practitioner from the Royal College of Surgeons in Edinburgh, Scotland. Fyfe has a background in counterterrorism operations similar to Hall’s. “Should they [any of the teams that trained] be called to an operation to act, they will be just as professional and will have the abilities to get the job done,” Fyfe said. Instruction included setting up an attack plan for each apparatus and neutralizing the threat within seconds. The main goal was for the officers to kill the aggressors while protecting hostages and their fellow teammates. Each team had two hours on each apparatus — a bus, a car and an airplane. “It’s important that each agency is provided the chance to pick the brain of the other agency,” Hall said. “They then can take that knowledge and incorporate it into their own plans to find what will best work for their team. Having worked and trained together also will make them more comfortable calling each other if a [natural] or man-made disaster were to occur.” Barry County law enforcement members ran their first assault plan on an aircraft. Hall explained the scenario to the department that they had a four-second timeframe to neutralize the enemy aboard the plane. He gave them little information, saying that there were at least four “hostiles” aboard and that they had taken hostages. The team then had 15 minutes to come up with an attack strategy and execute it. “If there is an outside-of-the-box idea you have, try it today,” Hall said. “That way you’ll know if it doesn’t work.” Barry County personnel tried two different attack strategies during their training session on the airplane to determine which was a better plan. “For never having been exposed to this before, I think the team did a good job,” said Barry County Sgt. Nick Seifert. “They came here with the right attitude — to learn.” After all deputies had a chance to run both scenarios, they moved on to the bus and car scenarios. Each team was given two hours with each apparatus to run its attack plans and debrief their strategies. “We are hoping to continue to do these types of trainings,” Hall said. Seifert said he would like to see the department do more such training, as well, because it prepares them for several different types of The Barry County Sheriff SWAT team rushes to aid "hostages" of a terrorist attack aboard a plane as one of three training simulations Jan. 17 at Kellogg Community College’s Aircraft Rescue Firefighter hangar. More than 60 local law enforcement officers from three jurisdictions gathered for a training seminar Jan. 17 hosted by Kellogg Community College. vehicle-assault scenarios. “We started a special response team in the county within the last year, so when Battle Creek invited us, we said ‘Yes,’” Seifert said. “We’re in infant steps right now. Any training we can get, we’re happy to be invited to.” Although the 24-member team has not had to use this type of training, due to the fact that most of their operations involve search warrants or drug raids, Seifert said having the Photos by Corinne Kellogg training could be beneficial in the future. “[The need] hasn’t come up yet for vehicle assaults, but the interaction with the other agencies — learning to work together with them is beneficial to our department,” Seifert said. “No one agency can do it themselves.” Planning session allows county board future focus by Doug VanderLaan Editor Though their meeting room sits on the lofty top floor of the courthouse building in Hastings, Barry County commissioners were encouraged to view their strategic planning meeting Thursday, Jan. 19, as an airliner ride at a far greater altitude. “Right now, we’re at the 10,000-foot level and we’re working our way down,” commented County Administrator Michael Brown during an infrequent board opportunity to consider longer-term issues apart from the day-to-day matters of running county government. Brown was referring specifically to the former library building on South Church Street that came under county ownership in a property swap with the City of Hastings. The structure has been vacant while the county works to identify a use strategy that would likely include long-term planning for the adjacent courts and law building on Church Street and for the county courthouse itself. “The original intent of the courts and law building was to have the courts all in one place,” pointed out Commissioner Ben Geiger, who noted that the circuit court still maintains its home in the courthouse. Brown countered that the current configuration of the courts and law building allows only for the district court and the probate court and no room — given the presence of an 80-person community room and offices of Barry County MSU Extension — for a third court. He reminded commissioners also of an historical directive. “Before Judge [Richard] Shuster retired, he was adamant that the circuit court not move [from the courthouse] so that we could keep its historical perspective. But, times have changed. With the unification of the courts, maybe we might want to look at something else.” Commissioner Robert Houtman raised the issue of personal security and that the cost of such devices as video surveillance would not need to be duplicated if the circuit court were moved and all Barry County courts operated from one building. Brown suggested, and the commission agreed, that Brown should seek the thoughts of court personnel, providing the commission’s broad parameters and then submitting to the county board a proposed space usage plan for all three buildings in question. Parameters suggested by Brown included concerns regarding security, efficiency of service delivery, efficient use of space and buildings, possible replacement or renovation costs and low-cost solutions. Commissioners provided their unanimous approval to move forward with one non-negotiable item: that circuit court maintain its current home in the courthouse building. On a second planning issue, Brown’s earlier airline analogy was appropriate in a discussion of strategies to avoid possible turbulence in the county’s pension liability position. “Our pension program is currently 71 to 72 percent funded, and that, historically, has been a good, recommended number,” suggested Brown. “As long as new members [employees] come in they meet the [retirement] costs of those leaving. “But changes have begun to occur and, as we look to the next 20, 30 to 40 years, I think we should look at getting 100 percent funded. To the degree that we can get to 100 percent of being fully funded, it would be more fiscally prudent — and we have an opportunity now to address that.” The changes to which Brown referred and to which he said commissioners — and all municipalities — should be concerned revolve around the market fluctuation of investments, the move from defined benefit (pension) to defined contribution (401(k)) plans, and the reduction in work force numbers being experienced throughout the country. Brown pointed out that under traditional defined benefit retirement plans, employers and employees contributed to the state’s Municipal Employees Retirement System, which promises a fixed rate of payment upon retirement. Today, in many municipalities — and even private business — retirement contributions are made to an employee’s individual 401(k) investment portfolio, allowing greater individual management of the investment and reducing a municipality’s or a company’s liability to provide a stated retirement payment. In Barry County, recent labor contracts have included a “hybrid” plan, splitting employee pension contributions between the defined benefit and the defined contribution plans. The county’s advantage is the reduction in unfunded liability — or the amount it is liable for paying an employee upon retirement. The difficulty becomes the corresponding reduction in employee retirement contributions being made to the pension system that must sustain the pension benefits of current retirees. With fewer dollars being directed to the MERS defined benefit plan — and instead going to private 401(k) investment plans — there is less money to meet the county’s commitment to pay current retirees, or the unfunded liability. “Right now, from our general fund, 17 percent of our payroll goes to the pension requirement,” stated Brown. “Ten percent of that is the normal cost of funding our employee’s pensions, but the other 7 percent is what we need to cover our unfunded accrued liability. When we get that 7 percent paid off, our costs go down to the normal 10 percent of payroll and would allow us funds with which to do something else with.” Brown suggested that Commissioners consider begin an annual paydown of the accrued liability from the 100 percent tax payment fund, a pool established for used with nonrecurring money issues, such as capital debt. With the payoff of existing bond issues for projects at Kellogg Community College, the Southwest Barry County Sewer and Water Authority, Fair Lake, and Thornapple Manor, Brown said the county board has room to consider an annual paydown of the unfunded pension liability. Brown said he was uncertain how long it would take to pay off the unfunded pension liability debt, which stands currently at $450,000, but had an aside for commissioners. “As we look forward in coming years to living on less, this will help the process,” said Brown. “It may take seven years or 10 years [to pay off the unfunded pension liability debt], but each year it will begin to have an effect and will reduce our expenses.” Commissioners directed Brown to draw up a plan for consideration. Other issues presented at the strategic planning session included: • An update on the Smart County Initiative. Commissioner Geiger reported that development is on schedule for an April 20 launch of the new county website upgrades. A Jan. 24 meeting was scheduled to meet with all county department liaisons to begin the planning for a county computer “dashboard” listing among other information agendas, minutes and abbreviated spending data for every county board and committee. Efforts are also being extended to townships to share in the technology and design. • Discussion of the composition and the need for county board presence on more than 50 committee county and township boards and committees. As commissioners fill assignments to the posts listed in 2012, board direction was provided that all committee responsibilities be carefully evaluated. Hastings City Council approves application grant for Bliss landfill by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer The Hastings Downtown Development Authority and the Hastings Local Development Finance Authority got the nod from the Hastings City Council Monday night to apply for a $400,000 United States Environmental Protection Agency Assessment and Cleanup Grant to prepare for redevelopment the three sites surrounding the old industrial incubator and former Bliss landfill on the 1000 block of East State Street. In a communication to the council, Hastings Community Development Director John Hart said the city has very little vacant industrial property left for development, and assistance from governmental agencies is necessary due to environmental concerns and conditions at those sites. Local governments and nonprofits with previous or existing grant awards since 2003 and in ownership of a brownfield site are eligible to apply for the grant — $200,000 for assessment and $200,000 for cleanup. The grant application, which is due Friday, Feb. 10, requires a 20 percent match. The LDFA has pledged $40,000, $10,000 of which is proposed to come from in-kind staff hours. If awarded the grant, the project to begin the cleanup of the site would begin in the fall. In other business, the council: • Approved the following depositories for city funds for the 2012-13 fiscal year: Chemical Bank, Midland; Comerica Bank, Detroit; Commercial Bank, Hastings; Fifth Third Bank, Grand Rapids; Firstbank West Michigan, Hastings; Flagstar Bank, Troy; Hastings City Bank, Hastings; Huntington National Bank, Grand Rapids; Macatawa Bank, Holland; Mercantile Bank, Grand Rapids; The Private Bank, Bloomfield Hills; Talmer Bank and Trust, Troy; Union Bank, Hastings; Wolverine Bank, Midland. • Authorized Hastings Mayor Bob May and Clerk Tom Emery to sign a building exterior improvement program development agreement and a rental rehabilitation loan agreement and commitment with Shirley Besteman for property located at 118 W. State St. �Page 4 — Thursday, January 26, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Local teacher’s response turn into television news overreaction A different kind of snow angel Hastings resident Freddy Kietzmann sent this photo taken at her Christmas tree farm. She was cross-country skiing when she came upon the imprint. She said she didn’t see the raptor that used its wings to make this snow angel, but added that red-tailed hawks soar overhead throughout the year. She didn’t see any tracks for a four-footed critter that might have lured the bird to earth, but that didn’t keep her from wondering. “I saw no prey, but have seen tracks of mice, voles, rabbits, birds, turkeys, raccoons, fox, coyotes and some I can’t identify,” said Kietzmann. “It’s fun to try to decipher a story from the activity of the tracks. ~~~ We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. If you have a recent photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. know? Do you Heated exchange Do you recognize these two men or the building they are in? They are looking at what appears to be a hole in the floor. Was it put there intentionally? Did embers from the stove burn a section of the floor? Are they replacing the floor to hold a better stove? What can you tell us about this photo? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’ve received great response from readers who have helped us identify the people in the photos and provided a little more information about the event. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@j-adgraphics.com, or call 269-9459554. Last week’s photo featured a crowd gathered in a brick-lined room near a bay window. Barb Case, who taught at Central School for 23 years, said she is certain the photo was taken in the library at the school. The kindergarten room was directly below the library. In the 1950s, when this photo likely was taken, she said, it was an all-pur- Have you pose room, used as the gym and lunchroom. Case, a student at Central in the 1960s, said she didn’t recognize people in the photo, however. She suggested that maybe they were gathered for a school board or PTA meeting. met? Marilee Osterink serves as a preschool teacher at Hope United Methodist Church in Hastings. She previously ran Barry County’s GED program for inmates and parolees also formerly taught at Hastings Middle School, Hastings High School and with the high school tutoring program. Marilee also volunteers with the Pioneer program for youths at Hope United Methodist Church. She is now studying to renew her secondary education certification and get an elementary endorsement so she will be certified to teach kindergarten through 12th grade in the public school system. Marilee and her husband, Brian, have lived in Hastings for 23 years. The couple have three children: Kevin, a freshman at Olivet Nazarene University; Corrie, a junior at Hastings High School, and Christy, who is in seventh grade at Hastings Middle School. Best advice I ever received: “It came from Brain’s mom, Sarah Osterink. She told me, ‘Life is too short to stay angry with each other.’” Favorite movie: “Secondhand Lions.” If I were president: “I’d put smart people in charge.” Greatest song ever written: “Jesus Loves Me.” Favorite vacation destination: “The Grand Canyon, it was really amazing. Out she did, she got it right.” Biggest challenge: “Trying to be a good mom.” Favorite teacher: “My high school science teacher, Marilyn Fedrew — she was fun, yet she had high expectations, and she believed in me.” Person I would most like to meet: “My grandmother, she died when I was 2, so I didn’t really know her. I’d like to meet her.” Book I’d recommend: “The Bible.” Favorite childhood memory: “Family vacations. We had great family vacations. We went camping or skiing ... My dad was away from the phone ... and there was so much laughter.” If I could change one thing: “I’d want people to understand the responsibility we have for each other and not be so selfish and power hungry.” Marilee Osterink West is just so amazing.” What I am most proud of: “My family, especially my kids.” Person I’d most like to meet: “I’d like to meet the mother of the evangelist, Timothy — he was the young man mentored by Paul. He was raised by his mom, who was a single mother, and his grandmother. Whatever Each week, The Banner will profile a person from the community who works behinds the scenes, whose efforts may not make headlines, but whose dedication makes Barry County shine. We’ll provide a quick peek each week at some of Barry County’s stars. Know of someone who makes Barry County shine? Drop us a note at Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058-0188 or send an email to news@j-adgraphics.com. Every day in schools all over the country, kids get into fights for all kinds of reasons. Last week, however, a couple of Hastings High School students who had been ‘trash talking’ each other on their cell phones took the conversation to another level in the halls of school. As in most situations, when a teacher hears or sees a couple of students beating on each other, a passing teacher accepted the responsibility to intervene before someone got hurt. From what I was told, the teacher yelled at the two to stop fighting before they hurt themselves. Her order was no match for the two students who had escalated their text-message differences to a bare-fisted hallway brawl. After ordering the two to stop and getting no response, the teacher told the students that she was going to pour her tea on them if they didn’t break it up. And that’s what she did. Responding to her instincts as a mother and as a teacher, she poured the nearly hour-old tea on the students, successfully getting their attention and compliance. What happened in the hours following the incident is troubling to me as it should be to anyone reading about the incident. Normally, you would think that following a fight, the offending students would be taken to the office where the school administrator would begin asking what the two were fighting about. I think a normal response would be to confiscate their cell phones and call their parents to come and get the students for least the rest of the day — spelling out to the students what is considered acceptable behavior by the school. According to Michigan School Code, school personnel have the right to impose reasonable force to maintain order and promote safety. In my opinion, that was the response of Vickie Sleevi — pouring water that she knew wet, but not hot, on two boys who didn’t respond to repeated shouts to break up a fight. The official response from the Hastings Schools Interim Superintendent Michelle Falcon was, “As a district, we support our staff. We encourage staff to maintain order in our schools. I appreciate Mrs. Sleevi’s attempt to handle the situation, however, the method was not a good choice. This incident was unfortunate. Mrs. Sleevi is an effective teacher that is held in high regard. After this incident, it has given us cause to re-evaluate our policies and procedures.” The response was predictable; I knew what the school was going to say even before our staff received the statement. But, it was the kids who were wrong. Mrs. Sleevi was acting as she should – and should be applauded for her actions, not sent home on unpaid leave. And the idea that she used bad judgment in pouring a cup of tea on two boys fighting is the hall is outrageous. Yet, the story should have been more than a response to a couple of kids fighting in the hall. The bigger story is what’s going on in our community and how parents respond today to incidents concerning their kids. When I was growing up, if I got into trouble at school, it was just the beginning. I had to answer to my parents, who believed that the school was always right. Convincing them otherwise was never easy. But this story didn’t begin to get out of control until one of the students told his mother about the incident which was followed by a phone call to the local police. What do you It didn’t take long for the TV people to hear about the issue as they frantically moved to be first on the scene with instant information keeping the public informed on the big event of the day. I believe, due to moving so quickly on a story that in the end was merely two boys fighting over some trash talk and a teacher pouring a simple cup of at-best warm tea over them to get their attention, grew into a nationwide exaggeration — a story that spun from a teacher responding to stop a fight by pouring tea on two students, to warm tea to hot and later scalding tea. Was a teacher using tea to stop two boys fighting in the hallway worthy of the story? I think not — at least what happened at school. The issue here is how a simple event grew to receive statewide and even national news attention. I believe the area television stations should have taken the time to find out what really happened before spreading the news across the network. Was the teacher acting properly as most parents would think they should under the circumstances? Are we are putting teachers like Sleevi in a no-win situation. As a parent, I would expect any teacher to break up a fight using whatever reasonable action necessary. Had she ignored the incident or gone for help, one of the boys could have hit the other seriously enough to do grave harm or to even cause death. Then how would are community respond? The media overplayed the story to where it could tarnish a valued teacher’s reputation, along with casting a bad light on our community. In a recent release from a large newspaper group in our state, the publisher told his reporters that they should consider themselves as a media company not a newspaper, while issuing them flip video cameras and Android cell phones. The focus is on the speed of the information and nothing — if anything — to do with quality by putting the story on the street with little or no research, risking harming individuals’ character or even entire communities under the determination to be “First,” “Live” and “On the scene.” Our newspaper accepts the fact that we might not be immediate, but you can count on us to do our best to research and understand each story before we commit it to print. In a recent article published in the Columbia Journalism Review, media critic Dean Starkman stated, “The cruel truth of the emerging networked news environment is that reporters are as disempowered as they have ever been, writing more often, under more pressure, with less autonomy, about more trivial things than under the previous monopolistic regime.” We accept the fact that we may not be first, but it will always be our determination to be factual as we report about our community and the people that live here. I hope that Mrs. Sleevi can look back on this incident as a learning moment while school officials should review not only procedures on how school personnel should intervene in these situations, but how they are going to deal with kids and the use of cell phones during the school day. And for the media, take a chill pill. It’s not just about being first – it’s more about being right! Fred Jacobs, vice president, J-Ad Graphics think? The governor — and the Prince Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website, www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question ... and don’t forget to use our new feature, leave us an opinion or comment. Last week’s question: Gov. Rick Snyder delivered his second state of the state message to the Legislature and the electorate last night in Lansing. After his first year in office, do you think Gov. Snyder is doing a good job? 50% 50% Yes No For this week: The Detroit Tigers dramatically improved their odds of winning next year’s World Series with Tuesday’s signing of superstar Prince Fielder. Is the nine-year, $214 million contract the Tigers guaranteed Fielder a good investment? q Yes q No �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 26, 2012 — Page 5 Local school boards discuss collaboration Hastings Mayor Bob May delivers his state of the city address to the Hastings Rotary Club. 2012 looks promising for city, despite challenges by David DeDecker Staff Writer Hastings Mayor Bob May delivered a 10minute state of the city address to the Hastings Rotary Club Jan. 23. May said this was the ninth time he has addressed the club. Jeff Mansfield, Hastings City manager, introduced the mayor. May said he and Mansfield both started working for the City of Hastings in 1992. “I don’t know of a community that I can go to and find the kind of staff Jeff has put together,” said May. “We have a tremendous staff.” A member of the Hastings Kiwanis Club, May said Hastings is also fortunate to have both Kiwanis and Rotary clubs because of the things they have done for the area. “Hastings remains the strong, vibrant, wonderful community we have all come to enjoy,” he said, May said 2012 will continue to present challenges, due primarily to the economy. The successes for the past year include a phase completion of the Hastings Riverwalk trail, business owners improving downtown streetscapes and utilizing grants to bring new affordable apartments to the downtown area above retail and office space, along with a second year of new downtown sculptures. “You cannot drive into any community our size anyplace in Michigan and find the successes we have been able to accomplish right here in our own hometown,” said May. The mayor said $17,000 was invested in the new skate park near Hastings Manufacturing Co. “Drive up there and look,” said May. “You know, you think you’ll see them doing something wrong, but you’ll be amazed when you find the older kids helping the younger kids. You will see them on their BMX bikes and skateboards or anything else on wheels. They are great.” The mayor said the city has completed two water main projects with another project slated for spring. The Riverside Cemetery Board will continue to look for options to improve maintenance and operations of the cemetery. The city will continue to support efforts to create a new veterans memorial. The city also works with the Grand Valley Metro Council to share services and save taxpayers money. City staff also will attend free and low-cost training sessions to stay up-to-date. “The only way we can serve our citizens is to be well informed,” said May. “Internally, we are doing a lot more with a lot less. We are sharing resources and responsibilities. Our staff members take on more roles each day as the demand for service grows, but the financial support is so much less. We must join together to make the best use of the resources that remain available. “In closing, we look forward to the future and what it may bring. We will look for ideas and funding for projects such as a bandshell, a new fire barn and the next phase of the Riverwalk. The historical society has also taken on a project for the old jail [courthouse annex]. “We have so many wonderful and concerned citizens ready to step up and make our community better in every way. Who can question why Hastings is one of the ‘Best 100 cities’?” Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. Rick Tormela, regional representative. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. The Hastings Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Helen Mudry Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 cussing the next steps. Vic Hass, Delton Kellogg board trustee, said that everyone at the meeting needed to remember the discussion before making purchases or hiring employees in the future. “Before we vote on an issue, we should ask what BISD, Hastings and other districts are doing, and ‘is this something that we could collaborate on?” said Hass. Individuals also expressed interest in creating a collaboration committee with board members from each district meeting on a regular basis to discuss these issues. A pact among the districts concerning collaboration was also discussed and will be researched before being taken to the boards in the future. “All in all, I thought that the meeting went well,” concluded Jeff Jennette, BISD superintendent. “There was some good discussion by the board members, and it sounds like they are interested in pursuing collaboration in the future.” IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV Fielder is choice pick for Tigers, Michigan To the editor: In a year when anybody who has a lot of money for themselves is told that is bad, Mike Ilitch and his management team made a huge statement with their commitment to get the Detroit Tigers in the World Series by signing free agent Prince Fielder to a nine-year, $214 million contract. Mike Ilitch has been a true promoter of the state of Michigan and the city of Detroit by being at the forefront of any cause that has promoted his home area. When he purchased the Detroit Red Wings, Ilitch committed his resources to making the Red Wings the best hockey team around. Then Mike and his wife took on the challenge of making the Detroit Tigers a solid contender — even though it took a lot of time and money. Always, the Ilitch family got the best management team in place and slowly did the job. Now, with the Tigers getting to the playoffs last year but not getting the job done and with the recent injury to Victor Martinez, the call to shake up the system again came from Mike. Who is the best possible team unit puzzle piece to pick up? Okay, go get Prince Fielder, and General Manager Dave Dombrowski did just that. Now, I only wish the Ford family would put its money and commitment where its mouth is and challenge its Detroit Lions management team to bring Ford Field better than a no-show playoff squad. It’s time for all sports fans to show their thanks to Mike and his wife, Marian, for their commitment to the dedicated fans in Michigan. Stephen Jacobs, Hastings REPORT, contd. from page 1 begun that will include cooperation with neighboring Allegan County. Commissioner Jeff VanNortwick added his assent to the popularity of the event and asked about related efforts to promote agricultural activities, including the summer farm market held on the courthouse lawn. “The farm market has been extremely vibrant. We had over 72 vendors last year, and that number was up,” reported Byrnes. “We’re working now on a collaboration with the Middleville market and the addition of electronic payment equipment so that goods and produce can be purchased with Bridge cards and WIC cards.” In response to VanNortwick’s question about a permanent location for the farm market, Byrnes responded that, though the subject has not been raised in ongoing discussions, the possibility is an important one to the City of Hastings. “Agriculture is a growth area,” commented Van Nortwick. “Food processing is big on our list, and it would certainly benefit younger entrepreneurs.” In addition to the planning for an expanded Arts and Eats Tour is a Gus Macker 3-on3 basketball tournament expected to draw approximately 200 teams and thousands of visitors to the county for a two-day event this summer. Byrnes also provided an update on chamber of commerce progress, reporting that the chamber now has 353 members, up approximately 45 members in 2011. Contractual work continues with Thornapple Township and the Village of Middleville, and a new dues structure which combines a chamber membership with a contribution to the Economic Development Alliance will be a big assistance. “One is membership based (chamber of commerce) and the other is contribution only,” pointed out Byrnes. “Combining them allows us to not have to solicit a business twice.” Responding to a compliment from Commissioner Joe Lyons regarding the work accomplished in 2011, Byrnes referred to the value of both the chamber and the Economic Development Alliance. “For me, it’s added value,” said Byrnes. “It was a hard couple of years to convince businesses, but I believe it’s about doing the right things for the right reasons. It’s not about selling a membership, but about showing the value of the chamber.” In other business, the commission approved the following recommendations proposed at last week’s committee of the whole meeting: • The appointment of Robert Taylor to a three-year term on the Barry County Solid Waste Oversight Committee. • Various budget amendments, transfers, and disbursements to more closely align with earlier projected budget estimates. • An amendment to the Barry County Animal Control Shelter Board bylaws to establish one-year terms for appointed Animal Control Board members. • A resolution of intent to apply for financial assistance for state and federal operating and capital funds for public transportation for the 2013 fiscal year. Hastings High School students join Big Brothers Big Sisters by Tim Johnston Hastings High School Principal Children need the guidance and inspiration. However, some children do not have that person for guidance; but Hastings High School is working to alter that situation. Hastings High Schools’ Big Brothers Big Sisters program is established to present children with a mentor who many are missing in their lives. More than a dozen students are participating in this cause, and they all seem to enjoy it as much as the children. “I never had a little brother before, and I thought it would be fun,” said senior Jennifer Jarman. “Most of the time we play board games, toss a football — really anything to make them feel more comfortable,” said junior Joey Siska. “I plan on doing this also for my senior year.” “I became interested in the program because I had a friend in elementary [school] that had a Big Sister, and she loved it; so, I did it to make a little kid happy,” said junior Jill Etts. “I find it rewarding because every time we go to the child’s class and get them, they have a smile on their face.” This is Hastings High School’s first year of implementing this type of program, and plans to keep it running long-term. Hastings High School and all the students who are participating are making a great effort to help these children have someone as a friend, for inspiration or for guidance. The Thornapple Players wish to thank our patrons and advertisers, and the following individuals, businesses, and organizations for their support in 2011. We hope you will continue to support us in our new home in the Barry Community Enrichment Center located at 231 S. Broadway for our 2012 season. John and Pati Czinder, Progressive Graphics, WBCH, the Barry Community Foundation Staff and extended famly, our building partners, J-Ad Graphics, Maple Valley Leadership students, the youth theatre workshop volunteers, Rick Hemerling, Hastings Elks Lodge #1965 and the Messer Trust. Advertisers 2011 Patrons 2011 Basic Tax Service Bosley Pharmacy County Seat Christopher A. Tomczyk, DDS Dig a Tree Dr. Scott Bloom, O.D. Edward Jones (Bob Knapp) Farmers Insurance -Troy Dalman Gilmore Jewelers Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc. Gole Dental Hastings Orthopedic Mill's Landing Reynolds Surveying SecondHand Corners Stacey Garrison, DDS State Farm - Tal Gearhart Step 'N Time Dance Studio Doug & Norma Jean Acker Tim & Colleen Acker & Family in honor of Doug Acker Anonymous The Kniaz Anger Family Michael & Charlotte Anton Jim & Mary Atkinson Lyle & Ruth Burch Mark & Margaret Christensen John & Tish Cohoon David & Maggie Coleman Dick, Linda & Kelly Curtis Dick & Alice Dean Doug & Margaret DeCamp Marleah & Terry Dennison Ed & Panda Englerth Tom & Lisa Evans Kearney & Lynne Fisher Emma J Freeland Dave & Luana Furrow Virginia Gies Linc & MaryJo Gorsuch Richard Groos Hastings City Bank Rick & Peggy Hemerling Evelyn Holzwarth Joan Kasinsky Mike & Janine Kasinsky Jo & Bud Keller Fred & Jeanette Kogge Joe & Patti LaJoye Hugh & Carleen Overholt Carol Satterly Terri Schray Patricia Scott-Snoor Walton Corey, Angela Seeber & Family Dale & Carol Svihl Carol Swanson Frank & Jane White David & Judy Wills Jim & Jill Wiswell 77565466 Brett Bremer Casey Cheney Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • School board members from Barry Intermediate School District, Delton Kellogg and Hastings schools met at the BISD offices Monday, Jan. 23, to discuss different ways to collaborate. BISD Board President Tim McMahon began the meeting explaining that BISD has collaboration as a goal each year, and the intent of Monday’s meeting was to get the boards together to discuss ideas that could increase efficiency and decrease expenses. Marsha Bassett, Delton Kellogg board secretary, stressed that maintaining autonomy in the districts is critical because both districts want to maintain their own identities but should be able to save money by working together in a variety of areas. Michelle Falcon, interim Hastings superintendent, said, “When looking at collaborative opportunities, we have to do what is best for kids, make sure that it is cost effective and ensure that the Panthers and Saxons maintain their identities.” The group started listing possibilities for collaboration, which included common school calendars, software and supply purchases, staffing and including the county, city and other entities with purchasing. “A common calendar for professional development makes a lot of sense,” said Delton Kellogg Superintendent Paul Blacken. “It doesn’t cost anything, both districts have similar school improvement goals, and it can get us started on the path to more collaboration.” Discussion also centered on departments that all of the districts have — such as athletics, business, technology and transportation — as possible areas of collaboration. When discussing potential challenges, Jennifer Bever, Delton Kellogg board treasurer, said she liked some of the ideas, but didn’t want to lose familiarity within the districts. She said it is important for board members to know the people in their districts. The two districts are part of different athletic conferences, use different software, have different employee contracts and school schedules, but the group didn’t seem to think that these issues couldn’t be rectified. The meeting concluded with the group dis- �Page 6 — Thursday, January 26, 2012 — The Hastings Banner HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, Jan. 26 — So Many Books Book Club meets to discuss Double Cross by James Patterson, 1 to 2 p.m.; Movie Memories celebrates British Authors with Jane Eyre (1943), 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 27 — preschool story time enjoys music, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; teen video game tournament begins, Round 1, 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 28 — Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) counseling, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, Jan. 30 — computer class tackles “Where’s My Stuff?” 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 31 — winter reading club for adults continues; toddler story time enjoys squirrels, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.; open chess club, 6 to 8 p.m.; genealogy club, 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 1 — 1st to 3rd Club flies with the birds, 4:15 to 5:15 p.m. Call the Hastings Public Library for more information about any of the above, 269-9454263. Worship Together… 77565339 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Paul Osborn, Minister of Music; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service, Jr. & Sr. High Groups. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. HASTINGS SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH 904 Terry Lane, Hastings (or on the corner of Starr School Road and Terry Lane.) Phone: (269) 9452170. Pastor Michael Wise. Sabbath www.hastingssda.com (Saturday) School 9:30 a.m.; worship service 10:50 a.m. Mid-week meetings informal study and prayer service, Wednesdays 7 p.m. Youth ministry clubs, Adventurers for preschool to 4th grade students and Pathfinders for 5th grade students through high school, meet on the first and third Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. and first and third Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. respectively. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. CHURCH OF THE LIVING GOD A full gospel church. 1240 W. State Rd., Hastings. Pastor Doug Davis. 269-948-9740. Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study 6 p.m. Sunday School and Youth Group for all ages. Come and worship the Lord with us! . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. ORANGEVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH 6921 Marsh Rd., 2 miles south of Gun Lake, Plainwell. Phone 269664-4377. OrangevilleBaptist. org. Pastors Dan Bowman and Adam Parmenter. Sunday - 9:45 a.m. Adult Classes Offered: 1) Book of James; 2) Book of Jude; 3) Young Adult Class. Children, teen and adult Sunday School classes; 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Worship; 5:30 p.m. Junior and Senior High Word of Life Clubs. Tuesday - 9 a.m. Men’s Prayer and Bible Study. Wednesday - 6:30 p.m. Pre-school through 6th grade Word of Life Gophers & Olympians. Prayer & Bible Study 7 p.m. 6 p.m. Teen Word of Life. Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University - 13 weeks - JanuaryMarch. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Phone 269-721-8077. Minister Ryan Wieland 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Praise Worship Service; Noon alternate weekends Youth Group Tuesday. Covenant Prayer Group, Wednes-day 6:30 p.m., Choir Practice. Thursday 7 p.m. Praise Band Practice. 2nd and 4th Thursdays at 7 p.m. Christ’s Quilters. Friday 6:30 p.m., CPRChrist’s Plan for Recovery (meal served). For more information small groups, special evnts or if you have a prayer requst, call the church office and see postings on WEB site: www.countrychapel.umc.org. SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North Amer-ica and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Cronk cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 2 p.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 7 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-797-8618; Children’s Director 269-830-1664; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-9453327. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nash-ville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 or -517-852-1806. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS REFORMED CHURCH “A Historic Reformed Commun-ity.” Sunday morning services begin at 10 a.m. Meeting at the Barry County Commission on Aging building, 320 W. Woodlawn Ave., Hastings. Pastor: Peter Adams. 616-690-8609 padams@juno.com. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 9:15 Contemporary Worship, 10:30 a.m. Refreshments, 11 a.m. Traditional Worship. Sunday School for PreK2nd and 3rd-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. The Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Pastor of Senior Adults and Visitation, Don Brail. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. for children, youths and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Senior High Youth Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Mid-Week: 6:30-7:45 p.m. Pioneer Clubs, age 4th to 5th grade, and Junior High Youth Group, 6th-8th grade. Thursday: 10 a.m. Senior Adult Discussion and 11:30 a.m., lunch at Wendy’s. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Sunday, January 29 - Worship at 10 a.m. 8:45 a.m. Sunday School. Potluck following worship. Holy Communion Every Sunday! Jan. 29 - Men’s AA @ 7:00. Jan. 30 Adventurers Bible Study @ 7:00. Feb. 1 - Wordwatchers Bible Study @ 10 a.m. 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 9452645, fax 269-945-2698. Pastor Amy Luckey http://www.discovergrace. org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 9 a.m. Worship Service - Traditional; 10 a.m. Sunday School for All Ages; 11 a.m. Worship Service Contemporary; 6:00 Youth Group. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blog spot.com. Thursday - 9 a.m. Men’s Bible Study; 11:30 Women’s Brown Bag Bible Study; 6:30 p.m. Choir Rehearsal. Friday - 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday - 8 a.m. Men’s Breakfast; 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday - 3 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Fiberglass Products Lauer Family Funeral Homes 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 Area Obituaries Hazel Jeanette “Jean” (Reneau) Whitney DOWLING, MI - Hazel Jeanette “Jean” (Reneau) Whitney was taken into the arms of the Lord on Tuesday, January 24, 2012. Jean was born September 28, 1938 to William E. and Dolly B. (King) Reneau in Lacey. Jean resided in Dowling for the majority of her life. Jean married her childhood sweetheart, Lynwood “Skeeter” Whitney on April 26, 1957. The two were inseparable. Lyn and Jean have two children, Dennis L. Whitney and Debbie (Scott) Daniels both of Middleville. They raised the two of them in the family home in Dowling where they have lived for 48 years. Jean was a loving wife and mother. She taught her children important life values and morals. Jean was a mother of two and a mom to many. She enjoyed gardening, golfing, bowling, cooking family meals, snowmobiling, spending time camping in Dublin and at the Thornapple River. Most of all she enjoyed spending time with her family and loved unconditionally. She was a beautiful, vibrant woman with a spunky personality. Jean truly had a servant’s heart. Aside from being a housewife and mother, Jean also worked at Barney’s Bar in Bedford, as manager for many years. She was the bar manager at the Hastings Moose Lodge and at Mr. Thirsty’s (now The Legends) in Delton and was a real estate agent for Weller Real Estate in Battle Creek. Jean was preceded in death by her parents,William E. and Dolly B. (King) Reneau; her sister, Edith (Dave) Hricovsky; and brothers, William Reneau and Samuel (Bernice) Reneau. She is survived by her loving husband, Lynwood of 54 years; son, Dennis Whitney; daughter, Debbie (Scott) Daniels; eight grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. The family would like to give special thanks to the staff of Barry Community Hospice for the excellent and compassionate care they gave to Jean. Jean’s wishes were to be cremated. A memorial service to celebrate Jean’s life will be held on Tuesday, January 31, 2012 at Country Chapel United Methodist Church, 9275 S. M37 Highway, Dowling, MI 49050 at 11 a.m. followed by a luncheon. A private family burial will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers the family ask that you make a donation to Barry Community Hospice in memory of Hazel Whitney. Donations can be made at the memorial service or directly to Barry Community Hospice, 450 Meadow Run Drive, Suite 200, Hastings, MI 49058. Myles E. Fisher Karen Lynne Pearson DELTON, MI - Myles E. Fisher, of Delton, passed away January 21, 2012, in Battle Creek. Myles was born January 5, 1931, in Monroe County, the son of Harry W. and Irene E. (Collier) Fisher. A veteran of the Korean War, Myles proudly served his country in the US Army. Myles was listed as MIA, and was a POW, earning a Purple Heart, a Silver Star, and the Combat Infantry Badge. Myles enjoyed fishing and hunting, most of all he loved planting trees, and farming. Myles was a self-employed logger and operated a dredging business. For many years he worked at the Battle Creek Veterans Administration where he was a groundskeeper, a job he enjoyed. On July 15, 1958, he married Patricia “Dee” Corbiere, who preceded him in death of August 10, 1995. Myles is survived by sons, Daniel (Pat) Fisher, Dennis Fisher, and Douglas (Lorrie) Fisher; daughters, Patricia (George) Gomez, Liz Soliz, Debra Fisher, and Kimberlie (Steve) Skidmore; a sister, Luretha Cousino; 14 grandchildren; five great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews. Myles was also preceded in death by his parents and six brothers and two sisters. A funeral service will be conducted at Williams-Gores Funeral Home, Delton, on Thursday, January 26, 2012, 11 a.m., with Pastor Steve Olmstead, officiating. Burial will full military honors will be in Oak Hill Cemetery, Orangeville. Memorial contributions to the Wounded Warrior Project will be appreciated. Please visit www.williams-goresfuneral.com to view and sign Myles’ online guest book. KENTWOOD, MI – Karen Lynne Pearson of Kentwood passed away Sunday evening, January 15, 2012 in her home with her children by her side. Karen was born December 18, 1947 in Lansing. She was preceded in death by her parents, Elmer Clemens Pearson and Aileen Naone King, and by her sister, Delyn Naone Pearson. She is survived by her children, David John Michnal of Washington, DC, Dawn Marie Williams of Seattle, WA, Andrew Pearson Van Koevering of Grand Rapids, and by her granddaughter, Olivia Grace Hanson. Karen’s passion for life and devotion to all she loved was evident in her pride as a loving daughter, sister, mother, and grandmother, as well as reflected by dedication to her geriatric nursing career and to her hobbies. Karen delighted in spinning wool and knitting, reading, doll making with her granddaughter, collecting antiques, crafting quilts, and much more. A memorial celebration of Karen’s life will be held at her home in Kentwood on Saturday, January 21, 2012 from 1-3 p.m. The family wishes to thank the many friends and family who helped care for and comfort Karen during her fight with cancer, and the staff at the Lacks Cancer Center in Grand Rapids for their wonderful care and compassion. Memorial contributions can be made in her name to the American Cancer Society at https://www.cancer.org/involved/donate/don ateonlinenow/index.rol Arrangements by Zaagman Memorial Chapel, 2800 Burton St. S.E., Grand Rapids, MI 49546. Margaret Jean (Fisher) VanAman HASTINGS, MI - Margaret Jean (Fisher) VanAman, age 77, of Hastings passed away Friday, January 20, 2012. She was born August 28, 1934 in Grand Rapids, the daughter of Harold and Elsie (Charon) Fisher. Jean attended Freeport High School, graduating in 1952. She worked for Cappon Oil and Walters-Demmick Petroleum from 1985 through 1999. Jean married Cloyd A. VanAman on April 7, 1954. She enjoyed reading. Jean was a member of the Cedar Creek Bible Church. She was preceded in death by her husband, Cloyd A. VanAman; parents, Harold and Elsie Fisher; granddaughter, Amy Lynn VanAman; and sister, Beverley Garrison. Jean is survived by her sons, Jeffery (Judy) VanAman of Hastings, Brian (Janice) VanAman of Hastings; daughters, Tina (Matt) Houchlei of Vermontville, Toni VanAman of Hastings; brother, Floyd (Norma) Fisher of Hastings; nine grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Memorial contributions may be made to Barry Community Hospice, 450 Meadowrun Dr., Hastings, MI 49058 or Eaton County Palliative Residence, 2675 S. Cochran, Charlotte, MI 48813. A memorial visitation and service will be held Monday, January 30, 2012 at Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. The visitation will be held from 11 a.m. until 12 p.m. with the memorial service beginning at 12 p.m. Brian and BJ VanAman will be officiating the service. Interment at Freeport Cemetery at a later date. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a message or memory to the family. GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. Patty Jo Warren Patty Jo Warren, age 78, went to be with the Lord on January 21, 2012, after a courageous battle with breast cancer while at her daughter’s home in Georgia. Patty was born August 30, 1933 in Delton, to Lewis and Ruth (Bamfield) Babcock. Patty’s family was always her first priority. She loved camping, playing cards and cooking wonderful meals. Patty had been employed for many years as a cook for Community Hospital, Thornapple Manor and Riverside Manor. She is survived by her husband of 62 years Jack Warren; children, Ronald Warren of Battle Creek, Donald and LouAnn of Lacey, Kathy and Charles Bogg of Florida, Sherry and David Louiselle of Missouri, Marvin (Sue Smith) Warren of Lacey and Wendy and Larry Duke of Georgia; sisters, Rose Mary and Ralph Kurburski of Battle Creek, Sarah Pillars of Kalamazoo and Marilyn and James Curtis of Florida; 21 grandchildren and 32 great grandchildren. Patty was preceded in death by her parents, an infant sister Julia and a brother Stanley Babcock. The family will receive friends Friday, January 27, from 6-8 p.m. at the Bachman Hebble Funeral Service, 223 N. Bedford Rd., Battle Creek. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, January 28, 2012 at the Country Chapel United Methodist Church, 9275 S. M37 Hwy., Dowling. Memorials may be given to the Country Chapel. Please visit www.bachmanhebble. com. Kerwin Dean Paige PORTLAND, MI - Kerwin Dean Paige, age 85, of Portland, passed away January 19, 2012. Funeral arrangements pending with Lake Funeral Home in Ionia. Ray L. Girrbach Owner/Director 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 • 269-945-3252 Serving Hastings, Barry County and Surrounding Communities for 45 years •Traditional and Cremation Services •Pre-Planning Services •Large Parking Lot - Handicap Accessible •Serving All Faiths •Pre-arrangement Transfers Accepted Family Owned and Operated www.girrbachfuneralhome.net �Donald David Bloomer, Wayland and Nicole Danielle Feley, Allegan. Mathew Lee Brown, Battle Creek and Megan Margarette McPherson. Mark Richard Guthrie, Delton and Delores May Brown, Delton. Christopher John Kelley, Middleville and Migen May Kruse-Glaser, Middleville. Patrick Ryan Morris, Sunfield and Lacey Elizabeth Chase, Hastings. Benjamin Jacob Swafford, Hastings and Jessica Maria Martinez, Wyoming. Reardons to celebrate 60th wedding anniversary Leo and Ada (Salton) Reardon will be celebrating 60 years of marriage on January 25, 2012. They were married in 1952 and have always resided in Hastings, Mich. They have two sons, two daughters-inlaw, five grandchildren and one greatgrandchild. If you see Leo and Ada, please congratulate them on this milestone!” 60th Anniversary – Budd and Pat Randall Budd and Pat Randall, married November 16, 1951, recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary by taking a cruise in the Baja Peninsula, California. They married while Budd was serving in the army and spent their first year stationed at Sault Ste. Marie. They live in Hastings, but winter in Coolidge, Arizona. Budd and Pat have two sons, Gary and Rod, a daughter-in-law, three grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Newborn Babies Nellie Elizabeth, born at Pennock Hospital on Jan. 3, 2012 at 8:28 p.m. to Ed and Leah Solomon of Freeport. Weighing 9 lbs. 9 ozs. and 21 inches long. ***** Blake Alan, born at Pennock Hospital on Jan. 8, 2012 at 12:56 p.m. to Melissa and Brady Carter of Lake Odessa. Weighing 7 lbs. 1 oz. and 20 inches long. ***** Grady Liam, born at Pennock Hospital on Jan. 9, 2012 at 10:08 p.m. to Kyle and Stephanie Erickson of Lake Odessa. Weighing 7 lbs. 0 ozs. and 19 inches long. ***** Aubrey Jo, born at Pennock Hospital on Jan. 10, 2012 at 7:50 a.m. to Staci Wolcott and Kyle Davidson of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 13 ozs. and 19.5 inches long. ***** Rose Marie, born at Pennock Hospital on Jan. 10, 2012 at 7:13 p.m. to Josh and Whitney Eldridge of Middleville. Weighing 7 lbs. 15 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Carlee Michell Spears - Wyatt Carmi would like to announce the arrival of his sister. She was born on Sept. 11, 2011, she weighed 6 lbs. 11 ozs. and was 19 inches long. Proud parents are Chad and Mandy. Grandma’s and Grandpa’s are Penny and Mike Doolittle and Kathy and Fred Spears. ***** Carter Myles, born at Pennock Hospital on Jan. 17, 2012 at 8:01 a.m. to Valerie Goodwin of Ionia. Weighing 8 lbs., 11.5 ozs. and 22 inches long. ***** Jace Allen, born at Pennock Hospital on Jan. 14, 2012 at 2:16 p.m. to Jennifer Newton and Richard Daman of Hastings. Weighing 8 lbs., 2 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Cayll Ellis, born at Pennock Hospital on Jan. 13, 2012 at 1:21 p.m. to Gregory and Katherine Rathburn of Vermontville. Weighing 7 lbs., 12 ozs. and 20 inches long. HHS Alumni Banquet representatives needed The board of directors of the Hastings High School Alumni Association is in need of class representatives for the every-fifth-year anniversary classes who would like to participate in the annual June alumni banquet. The special anniversary classes for 2012 are 2007 (five years), 2002 (10 years), 1997 (15 years), 1992 (20 years), 1987 (25 years), 1982 (30 years), 1977 (35 years), 1972 (40 years), 1967 (45 years), 1962 (50 years), 1957 (55 years), 1952 (60 years), 1947 (65 years), 1942 (70 years), 1937 (75 years) and 1932 (80 years). “Each year, the every-fifth-year classes are honored, with special recognition provided to the 50th-year anniversary class,” says Alumni Board President Donna Brown. “The classmates attending from those classes, along with their class responders, are a major part of the banquet and program.” However, Brown points out, it is imperative that anniversary class representatives work with the alumni board in advance to plan for food, seating, program composition and the use of classrooms during the afternoon prior to the banquet for special anniversary class gatherings and celebrations. The responsibilities of class representatives include contacting classmates and coordinating banquet and specific afternoon class activities with the alumni board. The alumni board will assist with the cost of one mailing to classmates regarding the reunion and banquet details. The board will also coordinate classroom reservations adjacent to the HHS cafeteria where the alumni banquet will be held. Anniversary class representatives are also requested to attend planning sessions conducted by the alumni board. The next planning meeting is set for Sunday, Feb. 26, at 2 p.m. with additional meetings scheduled for the fourth Sundays of March, April and May. The planning sessions are vital because they will help determine attendance numbers in advance and proper program recognition. Advance planning will also ensure reservation of pre-banquet classrooms and tables at the alumni banquet. Though the fifth-year anniversary classes mentioned will be honored, all Hastings High School alumni are invited to attend. “Every fifth-year anniversary class can have its own reunion, but the alumni banquet is truly unique with all alumni gathering together,” says Brown. “The alumni banquet is a great place to meet old friends and to enjoy camaraderie between all classes. The alumni banquet is scheduled for Saturday, June 2, at the HHS cafeteria, with a punch bowl reception at 4:30 p.m., dinner at 5:30 p.m., and the evening’s program to follow. More details will be published later. Class representatives, individuals from the anniversary classes or any interested parties should contact Donna Brown by email, donnabrown21@sbcglobal.net, or by telephone at 269-948-2790 for more information and to make arrangements for attending the monthly board planning meetings. by David DeDecker Staff Writer Judge William Doherty attended to the Hastings Kiwanis Club meeting Jan. 18 to explain the reorganization of the Barry County courts. Doherty is the Barry County probate judge and oversees the administration of district, circuit and probate courts as chief judge. He went through the organization charts for court administration and explained the cost savings realized through reorganizing. “We have one court administrator for the entire court system, which is unique,” said Doherty. “I don’t know of another court system that has one trial court administrator that administers circuit, district, probate and Friend of the Court.” The courts were able to reorganize to one administrator upon the retirement of Kathy Holman, who was the civil criminal division court administrator. Doherty said the plan began with judges James Fisher, Gary Holman and Richard Shaw in the late 1990s. “We replaced Kathy Holman’s position with a deputy court administrator,” said Doherty. Bob Nida is now administrator for the entire system. Frank Hillary was also hired as an attorney magistrate, which replaced two previous positions. “I have a business degree, and believe government should have a business model to efficiently and effectively deliver its services, not just court services,” he said. “We consider all aspects of providing those services. It’s not always easy to identify those aspects, but we do have to constantly monitor them. “This year, our budget was cut, but we were able to avoid pink slips or lay people off. We did not fill any positions left by retirements. “The probate court and juvenile court budget is very complex,” he said. “There are three different funding sources — county, state and federal — and they all have strings attached.” Doherty talked about the different costs for placing juveniles in programs. He said placing a child in a federal program may cost $100,000, which includes costs for guards and counselors, supervisors and other governmental mandates. Other available options may cost the county nothing, or the county may be reimbursed for half the cost. However, it takes time to find and utilize the most cost-effective options, he noted. According to Doherty, by applying for grants and through proper administration of available programs, costs can be kept lower. He said in Marquette County, which is similar in population to Barry County, the Child Care Fund is $2.5 million, and Barry County has a $600,000 Child Care Fund. Without the many community-based programs available to the local courts, Doherty said that Barry County number would be about four times as much, or about $2.5 million. Doherty said another issue is retaining key employees. “I think any business that does well strives to keep its good workers,” he said. “Employee morale is tough in hard times. Restructuring did save people’s jobs. There are people saying others have gotten raises and that they should have gotten raises, but if we didn’t do the restructuring, at least three people would no longer be employed. “We eliminated a court administrator position which would be paid approximately Chief Judge William Doherty speaks to the Hastings Kiwanis Club about cost savings through proper administration and community-based programs. $90,000 a year, plus benefits, and replaced that position with a $45,000-a-year job. There was an increase [in salary] for the attorney The Barry County Substance Abuse Task Force and its Youth Leadership Workgroup will host the third annual Youth Leadership Summit Friday, Jan. 27. Kellogg Community College Fehsenfeld Center in Hastings will welcome more than 140 students from five Barry County high schools to the day-long event. The leadership event is youth-planned and youth-driven, and will focus on promoting positive actions to prevent risk behaviors, such as underage drinking and substance abuse. Organizers have chosen the theme of this year’s summit, ‘Above the Influence.’ “This year’s Youth Leadership Summit has been planned by an awesome group of youth volunteers,” said Liz Lenz, SATF coordinator. “They have put in hours of time to make YLS 2012 a reality.” During the summit, students will interact with other Barry County youths while attending a number of workshops to learn how to find positive methods of staying above the influence and inspire their peers to do the same. “The Youth Leadership Summit allows teens to spread the message that we are above the influence. We really enjoy working with INCOME TAX TIME IS HERE AGAIN! our peers to help change stereotypes about our generation,” said Marissa Kurr, senior at Thornapple Kellogg High School. “Our hope is to raise awareness of the need for change while focusing on the positive,” added Marc Zimmerman, school-based preventionist with Barry County Community Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. “I love the Youth Leadership Summit and meeting new people, eating great food and discussing topics vital to teens in our community,” said Sara Densberger, TKHS senior. The theme of the 2012 Youth Leadership Summit will continue throughout the school year as participants return to their respective schools and work with their peers to create messages promoting positive decisions. Leadership teams will receive funding support from the SATF for their projects. The Barry County Substance Abuse Task Force is coordinated through Substance Abuse Prevention Services, Barry County Community Mental Health Authority. BCCMHA is a licensed and accredited behavioral health agency providing treatment and prevention services to all Barry County residents. For more information, call 269-9484200 or e-mail llenz@bccmha.org. NOTICE Time to visit... K.A. Mueller Accounting The minutes of the meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners held January 24, 2012, are available in the County Clerk’s Office at 220 W. State St., Hastings, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or www.barrycounty.org. • Professional, Economical & Personal TAX & Accounting Services 77565462 magistrate position. But, I would point out the numbers were not just pulled out of the air. We went through the county system. The county has a system of classifying employees. The positions were reclassified and assigned a number, and salary ranges were based on that number. We saved about $41,000 by replacing a magistrate and a probate register with one attorney magistrate.” Doherty said by doing this and other measures, the courts were able to cut about 9 percent out of the budget when other departments were asked to cut about 3 percent. “The county is looking to cut again this year,” he said. “With the reclassification issue, the push from the employee association was to have across-the-board raises. The county board have to manage a budget. We will certainly look at reclassification of every individual. But, I guess what we’re saying to the employees is ‘Be careful what you ask for because you may get it. You may be reclassified at a lower number.’” Doherty also talked about the courts’ investment in technology. A new video conferencing system lets judges, attorneys, expert witnesses and defendants communicate via a communication system that is projected to save time and money. Instead of involved parties traveling and defendants being transported and guarded at tremendous cost, arraignments and testimonies can be accomplished by a direct video link. Doherty said he believes the $135,000 system has paid for itself already in cost savings. “We are always looking for ways to improve,” he said. “We are never going to arrive at a spot or a time when we say ‘We’re done.’ We have got to be able to change with the times.” Annual youth leadership summit convenes Friday 221 South Jefferson, Hastings, MI Phone: (269) 945-3547 www.kamuelleraccounting.com 77565399 ® STUDENT DRIVER EDUCATION The GREEN LIGHT DRIVING SCHOOL LLC 517-852-0000 greenlightdriving@att.net SEGMENT 2 - $40 HASTINGS CLASSROOM (114 E. State, Suite 3) January 30 - February 1 • 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. March 5 - 7 • 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. April 4 - 6 • 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. | May 21 - 23 • 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. NASHVILLE CLASSROOM (208 N. Main) February 13 - 15 • 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. April 2 - 4 • 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. | May 21 - 23 • 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. SEGMENT 1 - $299 77565489 Marriage Licenses Judge Doherty speaks of efficiency and effectiveness 77564841 Social News The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 26, 2012 — Page 7 HASTINGS CLASSROOM (114 E. State, Suite 3) January 30 - February 16 • 6:45 p.m. - 8:45 p.m. March 12 - 29 • 6:45 p.m. - 8:45 p.m. April 16 - May 3 • 6:45 p.m. - 8:45 p.m. May 29 - June 13 • 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. (Hastings High School) NASHVILLE CLASSROOM (208 N. Main) February 20 - March 8 • 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. March 26 - April 12 • 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. May 7 - 24 • 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. | June 11 - 26 • 7:00-9:00 p.m. Classes normally fill so please register early! �Page 8 — Thursday, January 26, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of by Elaine Garlock Saturday, the West Berlin Wesleyan Church is having its annual chili supper and sleigh ride. This is a fun experience to ride over hill and dale, barring bitter weather which would be harmful to the horses. This begins at 4:30 p.m. The Lakewood Lions Club is having its annual pancake supper Saturday at St. Edwards Family Center. Advance tickets are available from any local Lions member. This is one of the club’s chief fundraisers. Much of their funding goes to support the summer swim program. They support many other community causes. This weekend the Depot Complex will be busy with the annual quilt show taking place Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, from 2 to 5 p.m. Lunch will be served Saturday with soup and sandwiches. Quilts are coming from many members of the genealogy society in addition to Lake Odessa area. Anyone with a quilt old or new, to exhibit, should bring it Thursday or Friday. Other textiles are welcome besides quilts. The schedule is planned for all the 2012 exhibitors at the Depot Museum. Each week- end at the end of the month is planned. The local historical society welcomes new members who then can become part of the sponsors of all these events which bring many visitors to Lake Odessa where they may patronize our restaurants, craft shops, antique stores and more. Next week brings Groundhog Day Feb. 2. Will he see his shadow? Death came this week to Neil Bedore of Grand Ledge. He had several nieces and nephews here. His wife was the former Phyllis Tasker. Did you ever marvel at the power and strength in a bulb? After months of languishing in a cool, dark basement room, an amaryllis bulb was brought upstairs and left on a kitchen counter. The only change was added warmth and some light, but it was not put near a window. Even with no moisture or sunlight, it began growth with a green tip showing within just a few days. At that point the owner saturated the peat moss in which it was planted more than a year ago. Now it is more than three inches high and had to be placed in a narrow, deep container to hold the big leaf upright. How amazing. EDWARD JONES Delay in investing could prove costly WEST NORTH EAST SOUTH: You’ve no doubt heard that “time is money.” While this expression may be applicable in many areas of life, it’s especially relevant for investors — because the more time you spend not investing, the less money you are likely to have when you really need it, such as during your retirement. That’s why it’s essential that you don’t wait to start saving for your days as a retiree. Many people think it won’t make much difference if they delay investing for a few years. As you know, time flies, and before you know it, “a few years” turns into a decade — and a decade’s postponement in saving for retirement can make an enormous difference in your life. How big a difference? Suppose you plan to retire at age 65. If at age 25, you began putting $200 a month into a tax-deferred vehicle, such as a traditional Individual Retirement Account (IRA), and your investments inside that IRA hypothetically earned on average 7% a year, you would accumulate about $512,000 after 40 years. However, if you had waited until you were age 30 to start saving for retirement, with all else being equal, you’d end up with only about $355,000 when you reached 65 — $157,000 less — due to that five-year delay. And if you waited 10 years, until you were 35, you’d end up with about $243,000 — far less than half of what you would have accumulated had you started saving at 25. (Keep in mind that you will eventually have to pay taxes on these accumulations, and the actual figures don’t reflect fees, commissions or expenses.) N: 5, 2 M: 10 L: A, J, 10, 9, 8, 7 K: 8. 7, 4, 2 N: A, Q, J, 8, 7 M: K, 9, 8, 6 L: K, Q K: Q, J N: 10, 9, 6 M: Q, 4 L: 6, 5, 4, 3, 2 K: K, 6, 5 N: K, 4, 3 M: A, J, 7, 5, 3, 2 L: K: A, 10. 9, 3 GED testing now available in Hastings BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY by Gerald Stein Take a look at this hand of bridge and decide where you want to play. As I see it, you have at least three final choices, perhaps more. Where do you want to be? North is the dealer; both sides are vulnerable. Here is the bidding through the first two rounds: West North IS East Pass South 2H Pass ? ? ? North has a blockbuster hand to open the bidding at 1 Spade; South has a strong hand as well with a void in Diamonds and six Hearts. There is a trump fit in two suits although North does not know that yet. The trump suit must be Hearts, then. North bids 4 Hearts, content to play at game. “Not so fast, partner,” says South silently to herself. “Let’s do some exploring. If Hearts are our trump suit as you suggest, let’s see what an invitation to slam will produce.” South uses the Blackwood convention of 4NT to ask for aces. It looks like we have skipped by our first choice: 4 Hearts is gone for a game try. Are there actually three more choices to go? Five Hearts? Six Hearts? Or ...? What is North’s response to the Blackwood Convention asking for aces? Showing just one ace, North uses the Convention response of 5 Diamonds. South silently ponders a second. “My partner probably has the Ace of Spades for his opening bid, and with my void in Diamonds and plenty of trump (at least 10 between us!) we should make a try for slam.” Gone then is the second of the remaining three choices, with South choosing to skip 5 Hearts and go to Small Slam at 6 Hearts, or go for all the marbles with a gutsy 7 Hearts Grand Slam bid. What would you do? As it turns out, the bidding ended up in 6 Hearts at one table, and the same hand played at another table bid the 7 Hearts. West led the 2 of Clubs (?) as the opening lead, and South surveyed the Dummy with glee. Poor East is stuck when she sees the QJ of Clubs on the board and properly covers the J with her King of Clubs. Declarer South takes the Ace of Clubs, draws two rounds of trump, runs all of the Spades and pitches the losing Diamonds on the good Clubs, making seven easily. How did you do? Were you content to play 4 Hearts, 5 Hearts, 6 Hearts, or the incredible 7 Hearts? Would you have led the Ace of Diamonds as the opening lead? Would it have made any difference? The biggest difference in this hand is the final score: one North-South Vulnerable, making 7 for a score of 1460 while the other North-South team bid 7 Hearts Vulnerable, making 7 for a score of 2210. While the Grand Slams do not come along very often in the wonderful world of Contract Bridge, when they do, you will be sure to remember them with deep satisfaction. Happy Bridge in 2012! (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs) TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PARTIES PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a Public Hearing will be held by the Prairieville Township Zoning Board of Appeals on February 13, 2012 at 7:00 P.M. at the Prairieville Township Hall, 10115 S. Norris Road, within the Township. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the item(s) to be considered at this Public Hearing include, in brief, the following: 1. A request for Zoning Board of Appeals interpretation of Section 6.19, Zoning Ordinance - ‘Not withstanding the foregoing, the expansion of a nonconforming use or structure to the maximum extent of 30% of the original nonconforming use or structure may be permitted as a special land use under the procedures, standards, limitations and conditions provided in Article VII of this Ordinance . . .’ regarding the calculation of the area of the ‘original nonconforming use or structure’. 2. A request by Jeff Harper for Variance Approval from the 30% limitation on the expansion of a nonconforming use or structure set forth in Section 6.19, Zoning Ordinance. The subject property is located at 11393 Lakeshore Drive, Plainwell MI 49080 and is within the R-2 Residence District. 3.Such other and further matters as may properly come before the Planning & Zoning Commission for this meeting. All interested persons are invited to be present or submit written comments on this matter(s) to the below Township office address. Prairieville Township will provide necessary auxiliary aids and services such as signers for the hearing impaired and audiotapes of printed materials being considered at the hearing upon five (5) days notice to the Prairieville Township Clerk. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Prairieville Township Clerk at the address or telephone number set forth below. Jim Stoneburner, Township Supervisor Prairieville Township Hall 10115 S. Norris Rd Delton, MI 49046 (269) 623-2664 77565476 Starting in February, individuals seeking a General Educational Development credential who are 18 years or older will be able to take the tests at Barry Intermediate School District on Woodlawn Avenue. Testing is expected to begin Thursday, Feb. 9, and tests will be given the second Thursday of every month. “This is a great opportunity for individuals to increase their employability skills,” said Val Eavey, director of the BISD MichiganWorks program. “Many employers use the GED as the minimum education level for positions, and without the GED credential, it is difficult for individuals to find a job.” The only other testing site in Barry County is located at Michigan Career and Technical Institute at Pine Lake. Bringing the GED testing to Hastings was a collaborative effort between the Office of Community Corrections and BISD. Both groups know obtaining GED credentials is Clearly, the cost of delay can be considerable — which is why you should consider taking these steps: • Develop a strategy with your financial advisor. It’s easier to stick to a strategy if you know where you’re going. Your financial advisor can help you determine how much you need to save to reach the type of retirement you’ve envisioned. • If you haven’t started saving, begin now. If you wait until you feel more financially comfortable before you invest for retirement, you may never begin. Even if you can put away only a small amount, such as $50 per month, you’ll have made a start. To make it easier on yourself, set up your accounts to automatically move a set amount each month into your IRA. As the above examples show, the best way to build substantial savings is to start early, but even if you’re in your 30s or 40s, you can catch up — although you’ll need to save more to potentially get to the same level. • Increase your investments when your income rises. Every time you get a salary increase, boost your contributions to your IRA and your 401(k) or other employer-sponsored retirement plan. • Don’t take a “timeout” from investing. Keep on investing, whether the “news of the day” is positive or negative. The best investors are those who follow a consistent strategy and continue investing, year in and year out. In short, save early, save often — and keep investing. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 28.28 -.62 AT&T 30.09 -.16 BP PLC 44.70 +.46 CMS Energy Corp 21.61 -.14 Coca-Cola Co 67.90 +.55 Eaton 48.81 -.13 Family Dollar Stores 56.29 +2.46 Fifth Third Bancorp 13.43 -.31 Flowserve CP 107.71 +1.92 Ford Motor Co. 12.82 +.80 General Mills 40.10 -.67 General Motors 24.79 +.59 Intel Corp. 26.90 +1.86 Kellogg Co. 50.50 -.39 McDonald’s Corp 98.75 -1.80 Pfizer Inc. 21.66 -.29 Ralcorp 85.82 -.54 Sears Holding 45.78 +9.03 Spartan Motors 5.67 +.55 Spartan Stores 18.30 +.50 Stryker 52.94 +.93 TCF Financial 10.57 -.50 Walmart Stores 61.39 +1.54 Gold $1664.85 +12.85 Silver $30.01 +1.95 Dow Jones Average 12,675 +193 Volume on NYSE 696M -58M important for the people they serve, so offiThe GED test consists of five sections, cials applied for grants. The Office of including math, language arts, science, social Corrections awarded Barry County a grant to studies and reading. Each section will be provide tutoring for GED preparation and administered at different times on test days. supplies, and the Michigan Department of “We tried to create a testing schedule that Education awarded the Barry County Jail a will help students take the tests at their congrant to provide GED testing services to venience,” said Amy Graham of the local inmates of the jail. MichiganWorks office. “We know that this is a need in Barry Graham noted that all tests must be comCounty, and it is nice to see it become reality. pleted by January 2014 when the testing We believe it will be very successful,” said becomes computer-based. Jeff Westra, office of community corrections For more information on the GED prep or administrator. testing, call the MichiganWorks office, 269Westra also said there has been a very pos- 945-9545 ext. 144. itive response from the business community with donations of computers, supplies and cash to BARRY COUNTY ROAD COMMISSION; 31p6.8; 4"; get the program up Black; -; 77565497 and running. STANDING TIMBER SALE NOTICE BARRY COUNTY ROAD COMMISSION CITY OF HASTINGS REQUEST FOR BIDS 2012 TREE TRIMMING AND REMOVAL PROGRAM The City of Hastings, Michigan is soliciting bids for its annual tree trimming and removal program. Bid proposal forms and specifications are available at the address listed below. The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in the bid proposals, and to award the bid as deemed to be in the City’s best interest, price and other factors considered. Sealed bids will be received at the Office of the City Clerk/Treasurer, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 until 9:00 AM on Monday, February 6, 2012 at which time they shall be opened and publicly read aloud. All bids must be clearly marked on the outside of the submittal package “Sealed Bid – 2012 Tree Trimming and Removal”. Tim Girrbach Director of Public Services 77565460 CITY OF HASTINGS REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS – ENGINEERING SERVICES PHASE 2 – RIVERWALK TRAIL The City of Hastings is seeking proposals for professional engineering services for design and construction engineering services related to Phase 2 of the Riverwalk Trail. The Request for Proposals document is on file and may be examined at Hastings City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. Each person or firm who obtains proposal documents must supply a name, address, and phone number of a person or firm to whom addenda, if any, may be sent. Questions regarding the project should be directed to Tim Girrbach, Director of Public Services, City of Hastings, 201 E. State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, 269-945-2468 or by facsimile at 269-948-9544. The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any or all proposals or any parts of the same, to waive any irregularities, and to award the proposal as deemed to be in its best interest, price and other factors considered. Sealed proposals will be received at the Office of the City Clerk/Treasurer, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 until 9:00 AM on Friday, February 17, 2012. All proposals must be clearly marked on the outside of the submittal package “Request for Proposals – Engineering Services for Riverwalk Trail”. Tim Girrbach Director of Public Services 77565472 Notice is hereby given that sealed bids will be received at the Barry County Road Commission for standing timber on one parcel owned by the Commission. For detailed information on the site location and specifications, contact the Barry County Road Commission, 1725 W. M-43 Hwy., P.O. Box 158, Hastings, MI 49058; 269-945-3449. Bids must be received by 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 21, 2012. The right to reject any or all bids is reserved. 77565497 City of Hastings ANNOUNCEMENT OF U.S. EPA GRANT APPLICATION The City of Hastings is applying for a FY 2012 U.S. EPA MultiPurpose Pilot Grant. The grant would provide funding to support environmental investigation and remediation of the approximately 28-acre brownfield site located between East State Street and the Thornapple River within the 1000 Block of East State Street. The City acquired the Property in 2000. Redevelopment of the Property has been complicated by the unknown extent of environmental contamination resulting from historical landfill operations. The City desires to redevelop the southernmost portion of the Property with advanced manufacturing facilities, while preserving the remainder of the site for public recreation along the Thornapple River. The grant-funded investigation and remediation activities will assist in implementing the City’s redevelopment plans for the Property. The City will discuss this grant application at the regular Planning Commission meeting on Monday, February 6, 2012 at 7:00 PM in the City Council Chambers on the second floor at City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan. The public is invited to attend and provide input on the grant application. A draft copy of the grant application is available for public review and comment at the Community Development Department at City Hall. 77565474 John Hart Community Development Director �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 26, 2012 — Page 9 History of Barry Township recalled, part II by William W. Hampton Written for the annual meeting of the Barry County Pioneer Society June 5, 1897. To show some of the experiences and hardships encountered by the early pioneers, I will relate an incident or two. Soon after we got to keeping house, we commenced to cut the grass on the marsh, and had not cut but a swath or two before we found a Massasauga [snake]. We captured him, but there was no more mowing that day, for we were all afraid of the rattlers. I had on no shoes, so my feet were not protected against such customers. The next morning Uncle and I started for Kalamazoo to get some supplies. We started about sunrise going on foot, of course. We had walked the 21 miles, made our purchases, and were ready for home by 11 o’clock. I had a scythe and snath, an axe and handle, a pair of heavy stogie boots (snake proof); uncle had 40 pounds of pork in one end of a bag, and a jug of molasses, (or something else) in the other end, and several other articles of groceries besides. We were home before sundown, having made a trip of 42 miles. The ladies showed a great amount of pluck as well as the men. During the sickness I have mentioned before, Zephney Barnes’ people were very sick; one little girl dying. Mrs. Barnes was very sick, and my Aunt Eliza, after doing her own work, would go to the Barnes’ house three miles away and take care of the sick. She did that for several days. Mrs. Eben Pennock found it necessary to get some medicine for Mr. Pennock who was prostrated with the ague, and walked to Gull Corners, nine miles, and got a box of Sappington’s Pills, and was back before noon, having made a trip of 18 miles that morning. I might tell of many more incidents of the hardships endured by the early settlers of Barry. Shaking with the ague, burning with fevers, or freezing with chills, had it not been for quinine and Sappington’s Pills, I don’t know as that part of the country would have been settled. [Sappington’s pills, developed by a Missouri physician, continued quinine, which some people favored for the treatment of malaria.] Our house was made of rough logs, covered with elm bark, split rails on slabs for a floor. Our window was a hole cut out of the logs and a sheet of foolscap paper greased and pasted over the hole. We had but one board in the makeup of our house; it was used for a door, and was some 15 inches wide, 14 feet long, and we carried it by hand from Mr. Ellison’s some four miles. Men came from the Cooley neighborhood five miles distant to help us lay up our house, bringing their dinners with them, for our supplies were three miles away. We cleared the spot, built the house, and moved in within a week. The religious interests of Barry were early looked after by elders Moses Lawrence, Dabney and Knappen. Elder Lawrence organized a Methodist Protestant class in 1836 at his own house, one mile east of Hickory Corners, and held services there and at Nicholas Campbell’s, west of Hickory. A Sunday school was organized about the same time, with Mr. Huff, superintendent. The methodists have kept up their organization ever since and have a good meeting house, with regular services. The Wesleyan Methodists formed a class, I think in the winter of 1848 or 1849. They built a church one mile north of Hickory Corners; after worshipping there for term of years, they sold it and built a very fine edifice at Hickory Corners. The society is in prospering condition, holding regular services and has a good Sunday sffchool. The Congregational church was organized in 1845, under the direction of Dr. Milton Bradley, of Richland, but for lack of means and their limited membership, did not accomplish much for a time but reorganized a few years ago, and with a few members from Johnstown, built a church on Section 24, a site donated to the society by S.R. Willison, thus occupying land of the first settler of East Barry. They have a very nice church. The Baptists organized a church in the 1850s at Hickory Corners, held services in the Methodist Protestant church for a time until they built a fine church for themselves. They have sustained preaching and all the other church services up to the present time. In the winter of 1845 and 1846, Brother Shaw of the M.E. church, and of Hastings circuit, formed a class at Hickory Corners with a membership of nine. Burton Barnes was elected steward and W.W. Hampton leader. The class lived and prospered under the administration of Dr. Shaw, but when his successor came to the circuit, he only made us one visit and that was to take up his appointment. Brother Shaw was another example of what the early pioneers could do and endure. He preached at Pine Lake in the morning, at the Otis schoolhouse at 1 p.m., at Hickory Corners at 3:30; and at Johnstown in the evening, making some 25 or 30 miles travel, and preaching four times. I do not remember of his ever missing an appointment during his stay on the circuit. The class finally separated, some going to the Protestant and Wesleyan churches, others moved away, but the seed sown took root, and sprung up in the form of a class organized at the Polley schoolhouse [corner of Herbert and Hallock roads], under the direction of Brother E.H. Day, of Richland circuit, another class was formed at the Blackman schoolhouse. These classes were formed in 1862, or 1863, I think. They have consolidated and built a fine church at Delton, thus making five church edifices in the township. The first school district formed in the township was fractional with Barry and Spaulding [Prairieville Township] in 1836. The first school taught was in C.W. Spaulding’s chamber by Miss Theoda Spaulding. This school was the first school in Barry County and Miss Spaulding the first teacher. Miss Spaulding, now Mrs. Henry Knappen, is still living at Richland, Kalamazoo County. In the spring of 1837, Mr. Isaac Otis built a frame barn, and the school was kept in the granary, it being taught by Miss Hannah Mills. A Sabbath school was held in the Otis granary that summer, 1837, Mr. Tittelson, superintendent. One of the pupils of that Sunday school now resides in Hastings Township – Mrs. Larkin, then Miss Jennete Cross. The summer of 1837 the district built a schoolhouse on land donated by Mr. Isaac Otis, Mr. Seymour Tittelson doing the work. (Burpee note: I believe this name to be Tillotson instead of Tittelson. Barry County history speaks of Seymour Tillotson. Whether he is the same man was the superintendent of the Sabbath school in the granary, I do not know, but probably was. H.D.B.) Mr. Knappen held services in the schoolhouse in 1838 and a good school was kept there that summer. Barry Township has furnished the following men who have represented us joined the state NOTICE The Barry County Board of Commissioners is seeking applications from volunteers to serve on the following Boards/Commissions: 77565207 Agricultural Preservation Board: Resource Conservation representation (2 positions) Animal Control/Shelter Advisory Board: Citizen at Large (1 position), Kennel operator preferred. Building Authority: (1 position) Solid Waste Oversight Committee: Health Association/Environmental Professional (1 position) Central Dispatch: Citizen at Large (1 position): Applicants cannot be affiliated with any organization already involved with Barry County Central Dispatch. Applicants must be resident of Barry County. A letter of intent along with some background information and the willingness to commit to this position must be along with the application. Tax Allocation Board: (1 citizen at large position) Zoning Board of Appeals: (1 position, must not live in a city or village) Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services Board: (3 positions) one may be a citizen at large, one must be a primary consumer, and one must be secondary consumer (family member of a consumer) Charlton Park Village and Museum Board: (4 citizen at large positions) Applications may be obtained at the County Administration Office, 3rd floor of the Courthouse, 220 W. State St., Hastings; or www.barrycounty.org; and must be returned no later than 5:00 pm on Wednesday, February 1, 2012. Contact 269-945-1284 for more information. senate at Lansing; John Brown, E. W. Huett; as representatives: Salmon C. Hall, Adam Hall, Elliot and Myron Wing; county officers, clerk James Cadwallader; registers, Salmon C. Hall, W. P. Sidman; treasurers, Salmon C. Hall and J.G. Hughes. The first crop raised in northeast Barry was on Section 24, by Uncle Sam Willison. The seed wheat was bought of Isaac Otis and paid for in harvest work in 1837. Otis having a barn, his horses tread the grain out and when we got ready for the seed, Uncle Elias and myself went after it afoot and carried enough back to seed three and one-fourth acres of land. Some might ask why we didn’t take the oxen – well, they had just made the journey of 500 miles and were footsore and had to do the farming, so we favored them as much as possible. Besides, there was no road, and we had no time to make one. Our first crop of wheat came out splendidly, considering the primitive mode of seeding. Our drag was a tree crotch, with wooden pins for teeth. We didn’t plow the land, and it was so late in the season when we got the timber cut that we did not get a good barn up, but with our drag, hoe and fire, we did a pretty good job. As soon as we had planted our seed, the pioneers of the forest began to visit our field – squirrels, quail, turkeys and deer visited us. But with all the waste of threshing on a floor outdoors and cleaning up with the wind, there was over 80 bushels of very fine wheat off the three and one-quarter acres. Mrs. Walter Barnes is the oldest continuous settler now living in the township of Barry, having lived there since the spring of 1835, coming with her father, Elder Moses Lawrence. Warner Barnes came the same fall. They own a good farm north of Hickory Corners, both having lived contentedly in Barry since 1835. The first couple married in the township and county was A. M. Pickney and Hannah Mills in the fall of 1837. Barry has been on the board of supervisor such men as Salmon C. Hall, James Willison, Samuel Willison, Captain John Brown, E.W. Huett, Lucas Polley, Charles Polley, Adam Elliott, Orin Rorabeck, Robert Marshall, Eph. Manley, J.G. Hughes and Elmer Clark. In closing this paper, I would like to refer again briefly to D.r Uriah Upjohn. He was so closely connected with the early history and settlement of Barry, and although living in an adjoining county, he was Barry County’s first doctor. He located in the township of Ross, Kalamazoo County, in 1835. After a year or two, he settled on Gull Prairie, but still continued to doctor in Barry County for a long time. He died last fall at the advanced age of 88 years. His kindly and sympathetic nature endeared him to all, and his memory will live as long as anyone is alive who ever knew him. SOUTHWEST BARRY COUNTY SEWER AND WATER AUTHORITY COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED 2012-2013 BUDGET PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Commission of the Southwest Barry County Sewer and Water Authority will conduct a public hearing on the Authority’s 2012-2013 fiscal year on January 30, 2012 at 1:00 at the Barry Township Hall, 155 E. Orchard St., Delton, Michigan 49046. A copy of the proposed budget is available for public inspection at the office of the Authority located at 11191 South M-43 Highway, Delton, Michigan 49046 during regular Authority business hours. In addition to other business which may properly come before the meeting, the Commission will consider any comments made by the public at the public hearing on the Authority budget and, further, will consider whether to adopt, and may adopt, the annual Authority budget for the 2012-2013 fiscal year. If adopted, the budget may be adopted in the form in which originally presented, or in such amended form as the Commission in its discretion may determine. All interested persons may attend the public hearing. The address of the Southwest Barry County Sewer and Water Authority is 11191 South M-43 Highway, Delton, Michigan 49046. The telephone number of the Authority office is (269) 623-3401. Dated: January 11, 2012 SOUTHWEST BARRY COUNTY SEWER AND WATER AUTHORITY 77565169 PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a public hearing concerning proposed amendments to the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance will be held on Wednesday, February 15, 2012, commencing at 7:00 p.m. at the Prairieville Township Hall, 10115 South Norris Road, within the Township. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the items to be considered at this public hearing include, in brief, the following: 1. The proposed amendment of the Table of Contents of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance so as to change the names of the “R-1”, “R-2”, “R-4” and “R-5” zoning districts and to add reference to a new “AP” Agricultural Preservation District. 2. The proposed amendment of Section 3.1 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance so as to add definitions of “Agricultural production” and “Foster care (small group) facility”; to change the definitions of “Family day care home” and “group day care home” to refer to “Family child care home” and “Group child care home”; and to amend the definitions of “Agricultural” and “Farm”. 3. The proposed amendment of Section 4.2 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to lot-building relationships so as add reference to the “AP” zoning district. 4. The proposed amendment of Section 4.13 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to site plan review including, but not limited to, amendments pertaining to the types of developments requiring site plan review, application procedure and the standards for site plan review approval. 5. The proposed amendment of subsection A of Section 4.17 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to parking and loading spaces so as to change subpart 29 to refer to “group child care homes”. 6. The proposed amendment of subsection M of Section 4.18 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to signs so as to add references to the “AP” zoning district. 7. The proposed amendment of Section 4.19 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to home occupations so as to, among other changes, reference home occupations as a permitted use and modify the provisions for approval and revocation of approval for home occupations. 8. The proposed amendment of subsection B of Section 4.20 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to residential accessory buildings so as to change the reference to “Section 6.0.B.3.b” to “Sections 6.0.C and 6.1.C.1”. 9. The proposed amendment of subpart 3 of subsection D of Section 4.20 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to residential accessory buildings on otherwise vacant lots so as to add reference to the “AP” zoning district. 10. The proposed amendment of subsection B of Section 4.25 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to the keeping of animals so as to add provision for the keeping of non-household type animals in unplatted areas in the “AP” Agricultural Preservation District. 11. The proposed amendment of Section 4.33 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance so as to establish new standards for private roads. 12. The proposed amendment of Section 4.34 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to divisions of land so as to eliminate the reference to Section 4.33 and add in its place the phrase “except where otherwise permitted by this Ordinance”. 13. The proposed amendment of Section 4.39 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to child care facilities so as to change the references therein to “family day care homes” and group day care home” to, respectively, “family child care homes” and “group child care home”. 14. The proposed amendment of the “Schedule of Lot, Yard, and Area Requirements” in Section 4.41 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance with respect to the “AP” and “R-4” zoning districts. 15. The proposed amendment of Section 5.0 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance so as to modify the names of some of the zoning districts referenced therein and to add reference to the “AP” Agricultural Preservation District. 16. The proposed amendment of Section 5.1 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance so as to modify the names of some of the zoning districts referenced therein. 17. The proposed amendment of Section 6.0 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance so as to change the name of the “R-1” zoning district to the “R-1” Low Density Residential District and to change the various permitted uses and special land uses allowed in this zoning district. These changes include, but are not limited to, adding provisions for home occupations and foster care (small group) facilities as permitted uses and for cluster land developments as a special land use. 18. The proposed amendment of Section 6.1 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance so as to change the name of the “R-2” zoning district to the “R-2” Low Density Residential District and to change the various permitted uses and special land uses allowed in this zoning classification. These changes include, but are not limited to, adding provisions for home occupations and foster care (small group) facilities as permitted uses and for publicly owned and operated buildings and uses as a special land use. These proposed amendments also include changes pertaining to guest houses and bed and breakfast operations. 19. The proposed amendment of Section 6.2 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance so as to change the name of the “R-4” zoning district to the “R-4” Medium Density Residential District and to change the various permitted uses and special land uses allowed in this zoning district. These changes include, but are not limited to, adding provisions for single family dwellings, two family dwellings, home occupations and foster care (small group) facilities as permitted uses and for cluster land developments, churches and publicly owned and operated buildings and uses as special land uses. 20. The proposed amendment of Section 6.3 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to the “R-5” Mobile Home Parks Residential District so as to change the various permitted uses allowed in this zoning district. These changes include, but are not limited to, adding provisions for home occupations, foster care (small group) facilities and accessory uses or buildings as permitted uses. It is also proposed to amend the provision for group child care homes allowed as a special land use in the “R-5” zoning district. 21. The proposed amendment of Section 6.6 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to the “A” Agricultural District so as to change the various permitted uses and special land uses allowed in this zoning classification. These changes include, but are not limited to, adding provisions for greenhouses and nurseries (without retail sales), farm markets and roadside stands, home occupations and foster care (small group) facilities as permitted uses and for cluster land developments, greenhouses and nurseries (with retail sales), hunt clubs and gun clubs, the processing of agricultural products and publicly owned and operated buildings as special land uses. 22. The proposed amendment of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance by the establishment of a new Section 6.6-1 establishing the “AP” Agricultural Preservation District. This section sets forth the purpose, permitted uses and special land uses allowed in the “AP” District, as well as various area regulations pertaining to the same. 23. The proposed amendment of Section 8.1 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to Open Space Preservation Developments so as to add reference to the “AP” district. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Township Zoning Ordinance and the proposed amendments thereto may be examined at the Prairieville Township Hall located at 10115 South Norris Road within the Township at any reasonable time from and after the first publication of this Notice until and including the time of public hearing and may be further examined at the public hearing. The Prairieville Township Planning Commission and Township Board reserve the right to make changes in the above-mentioned proposed amendments at or following the public hearing. All interested parties are invited to be present to participate in discussion on the matter. Prairieville Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed material being considered at the hearing, to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon five (5) days’ notice to the Prairieville Township Clerk. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Prairieville Township Clerk at the address or telephone number listed below. PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION Jill Owens, Clerk Prairieville Township Hall 10115 South Norris Road Delton, MI 49046 (269) 623-2664 77565402 �Page 10 — Thursday, January 26, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES SYNOPSIS RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP REGULAR BOARD MEETING JANUARY 11, 2012 -7:30 P.M. Regular meeting called to order and Pledge of Allegiance. Present: Greenfield, Bellmore, Hawthorne, Carr, Lee, Hanshaw, Flint Approved the Agenda as presented. Approved the Consent Agenda as presented. Approved Resolution #2012-148, approving a "Class C" liquor license application for San Marcos, by roll call vote. Appointed Seigfried & Crandall as the Township's auditors of record. Meeting Adjourned at 8:34p.m. Respectfully submitted, Robin Hawthorne, Clerk Attested to by, Jim Carr, Supervisor www.rutlandtownship.org 77565458 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Joseph W. Erwine and Jennifer Armintrout AKA Jennifer Armitrout husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated December 3, 2008, and recorded on December 15, 2008 in instrument 200812150011806, and assigned by said Mortgagee to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Four Thousand Seven Hundred One and 35/100 Dollars ($124,701.35), including interest at 7% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on February 9, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The West 60 Feet of Lot 12 and the East 40 Feet of Lot 13 of the Plat of Smith's Acres, according to the recorded Plat thereof in Liber 4 of Plats, Page 10. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #391358F01 77565345 77565006 (01-12)(02-02) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTENTION PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain Mortgage made between JACK L. REFFETT, a single man, whose address is 120 Delaware, Westville, Illinois 61883, as Mortgagor, and ICNB MORTGAGE COMPANY, L.L.C., a Michigan limited liability company, whose address is 302 West Main Street, Ionia, Michigan 48846, as Mortgagee, dated January 8, 2007, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on January 12, 2007, in Document No. 1174919, upon which Mortgage is claimed to be due at the date of this notice the sum of SEVENTYSIX THOUSAND SEVEN HUNDRED FORTY-TWO 12/100 ($76,742.12) DOLLARS, and no suit or proceedings at law or equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said Mortgage, or any part thereof; NOW, THEREFORE, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said Mortgage, and pursuant to the statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on February 16, 2012, at 1:00 p.m., said Mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction to the highest bidder at the Barry County Courthouse, 220 West State Street, Hastings, County of Barry, Michigan (that being the building where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held) of the premises described in said Mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due of said Mortgage, with interest thereon at 6.5% per annum, and all legal costs, expenses and charges, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sums which may be paid by the undersigned to protect its interest in the premises, which said premises are described as follows: Land situated in the City of Hastings, County of Barry and State of Michigan, to-wit: The South 1/2 of Lots 19 and 20, Block 13, of Kenfield’s 2nd Addition to the City of Hastings, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats on Page 37, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be thirty (30) days from the date of such sale. ICNB MORTGAGE COMPANY, L.L.C. Mortgagee Dated this 12th day of January, 2012. TIMOTHY L. CURTISS, Esq. Braun Kendrick Finkbeiner P.L.C. 304 East Broadway, Suite 206 Mt. Pleasant, Michigan 48858 77565295 989/775-7404 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate Estate of Dorothy P. Smith. Date of birth: 12/19/1932. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Dorothy P. Smith, died 12/29/2011. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Felicity Laurie, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West Court Street, Suite 302, Hastings and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. 1/18/12 Timothy L. Tromp (P41571) 501 West State Street Hastings, Michigan 49058 (269) 948-9400 Felicity Laurie 900 Welcome Road Hastings, Michigan 49058 (269) 948-9362 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate File No. 12026016-DE Estate of Paula W. Grooters, Deceased. Date of birth: 08/10/1968. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Paula W. Grooters, died 10/11/2011. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Jeffrey D. Grooters, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court Street, Hastings and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. 01/18/2012 Howard T. Linden (P25438) 3000 Town Center, Ste. 2200 Southfield, MI 48075 (248) 358-4545 Jeffrey D. Grooters 211 S. Main Street Woodland, MI 48897 (269) 838-8713 77565423 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 11-025936-DE Estate of Miriam Gail Hess. Date of birth: 06/23/1926. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Miriam Gail Hess, died 06/27/2011. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Gordon C. Hess, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West Court Street, Suite 302, Hastings and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. 01/18/2012 Timothy L. Tromp (P41571) 501 West State Street Hastings, Michigan 49058 (269) 948-9400 Gordon C. Hess 4057 Farrell Road Hastings, Michigan 49058 (269) 945-3862 77565442 77565440 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-26025-DE Estate of JOHN E. JOHNSON, Deceased. Date of birth: 10/30/1950. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, John E. Johnson, who lived at 4521 Waldorff Road, Delton, Michigan died December 14, 2011. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Stephen K. Johnson, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 4521 Waldorff Road, Delton, MI 49046 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. January 20, 2012. Mark E. Kreter (P35475) One West Michigan Avenue Battle Creek, MI 49017 (269) 966-3000 Stephen K. Johnson 4521 Waldorff Road Delton, MI 49046 (269) 591-4304 77565449 THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Wade Kriekaard and Christina Kriekaard, husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Arbor Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated March 9, 2007 and recorded March 16, 2007 in Instrument Number 1177568, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by CitiMortgage, Inc. by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Three Hundred Twenty-Nine Thousand Five Hundred Seventeen and 40/100 Dollars ($329,517.40) including interest at 9.65% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on FEBRUARY 9, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Unit 8 of Romeyn Woods Condominium, a Condominium according to the Master Deed recorded in Liber 679 on Page 4 , and amendments thereto, and designated as Barry County Condominium Subdivision Plan Number 9, together with rights in general common elements and limited common elements as set forth in said Master Deed and as described in Act 59 of Public Acts of 1978, as amended. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: January 12, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 77565096 241.6275 (01-12)(02-02) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Michael J Dehaan, A Single Man, original mortgagor(s), to Broadmoor Financial Services, Inc., Mortgagee, dated October 10, 2003, and recorded on October 16, 2003 in instrument 1115720, and assigned by mesne assignments to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Forty Thousand Five Hundred Twenty-Six and 38/100 Dollars ($140,526.38), including interest at 5.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on February 23, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Northeast corner of the Northwest 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 22, Town 3 North, Range 10 West, Yankee Sprints Township, Barry County, Michigan: Thence West 710 feet along the North line of Section 22; thence South 00 degrees 11 minutes East 495 feet parallel with the West 1/8 line of said Section 22 for the place of beginning; thence East 710 feet parallel with the North line of said Section 22; thence South 00 degrees 11 East 325 feet along said West 1/8 line of Section 22; thence West 710 feet; thence North 00 degrees 11 minutes West 325 feet to the place of beginning. Together with a shared easement 33 feet in width for ingress and egress, the East line of which is described as; Beginning at the Southwest corner of above described parcel and running thence North 00 degrees 11 minutes West 820 feet to the North line of said Section 22 and the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #389055F01 77565430 (01-26)(02-16) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF A MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on December 16, 2004, by Justin D. Schultz and Heather B. Schultz, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, given by them to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on December 20, 2004, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 1138981, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of Ninety-Seven Thousand Fifty-One and 41/100 Dollars ($97,051.41); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, March 1, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE CITY OF HASTINGS, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: Lot 2 of Block 17 of Lincoln Park Addition to the City, formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 55. Commonly Known As: 636 W. Madison Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 Tax Parcel Number: 08-55-090-110-00 The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: January 18, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933 (517) 3718253 (01-26)(02-16) (01-26)(02-16) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Robert E. Thomas, Jr. and Pamela L. Thomas, Husband and Wife as Joint Tenants, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 19, 2005, and recorded on September 19, 2005 in instrument 1153031, and assigned by said Mortgagee to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eighteen Thousand Three Hundred Fifty-Nine and 17/100 Dollars ($118,359.17), including interest at 6.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on February 2, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 44 of the plat of melody acres, according to the recorded plat thereof as recorded in liber 5 of plats on page 21, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #354739F02 77564958 (01-05)(01-26) 77565418 THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Elaina M. Garrison, an unmarried woman, to Fifth Third Mortgage - MI, LLC, Mortgagee, dated August 1, 2006 and recorded August 7, 2006 in Instrument Number 1168236, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Fifth Third Mortgage Company by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Two Thousand Nine Hundred Sixty-Four and 98/100 Dollars ($82,964.98) including interest at 7.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on FEBRUARY 16, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The land referred to in this instrument, situated in the Village of Middleville, County of Barry, State of Michigan, is described as: Unit 6, East Town Homes, a Condominium according to the Master Deed recorded in Document Number 1074113, Barry County Records, as amended, and designated as Barry County Condominium Subdivision Plan Number 23, together with rights in the general common elements and the limited common elements as shown on the Master Deed and as described in Act 59 of the Public Acts of 1978, as amended. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: January 19, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 2683 File No. 200.8865 77565266 (01-19)(02-09) SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by RICHARD LINSEMAN, A MARRIED MAN and BARBARA LINSEMAN, A MARRIED WOMAN, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated July 21, 2005, and recorded on August 9, 2005, in Document No. 1150758, and assigned by said mortgagee to FLAGSTAR BANK, FSB, as assigned,Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Eight Thousand Six Hundred Dollars and Forty-Seven Cents ($98,600.47), including interest at 6.000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on February 9, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: COMMENCING AT THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF SECTION 32, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST; THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES 37 MINUTES 24 SECONDS WEST, 1912.69 FEET ALONG THE SOUTH LINE OF SAID SECTION 32 TO THE CENTERLINE OF LINDSEY ROAD AS NOW LOCATED; THENCE NORTH 07 DEGREES 55 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST 1441.82 FEET ALONG SAID CENTERLINE OF LINDSEY ROAD TO THE CENTERLINE OF BOULTER ROAD AS NOW LOCATED AND THE POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE NORTH 62 DEGREES 00 MINUTES EAST 281.09 FEET ALONG SAID CENTERLINE OF BOULTER ROAD; THENCE SOUTH 07 DEGREES 55 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST 165.00 FEET PARALLEL WITH SAID CENTERLINE OF LINDSEY ROAD; THENCE SOUTH 62 DEGREES 00 MINUTES WEST 281.09 FEET PARALLEL WITH SAID CENTERLINE OF BOULTER ROAD TO SAID CENTERLINE OF LINDSEY ROAD; THENCE NORTH 07 DEGREES 55 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST 165.00 FEET ALONG SAID CENTERLINE OF LINDSEY ROAD TO POINT OF BEGINNING. RESERVING THE NORTHERLY 33.0 FEET AND THE WESTERLY 33.0 FEET FOR HIGHWAY PURPOSES. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. FLAGSTAR BANK, FSB Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 FSB.004345 (01-12)(02-02) 77565395 77565109 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Kelley Lynn Carpenter and Douglas Edward Carpenter, Wife and Husband, original mortgagor(s), to Charter One Bank, N.A., Mortgagee, dated December 13, 2005, and recorded on January 17, 2006 in instrument 1158984, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eighty-Four Thousand Five Hundred Ninety-Six and 14/100 Dollars ($184,596.14), including interest at 7.33% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on February 23, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land in the Northeast 1/4 of Section 18, Town 4 North, Range 8 West, described as: Beginning at the Northwest corner of the Northeast 1/4 of said Section; thence East 46 2/3 rods; thence South 28 rods; thence West 20 rods; thence South 64 rods; thence West 26 2/3 rods; thence North 90 rods to beginning, except therefrom a parcel in the Northwest corner thereof that is 7 rods East and West by 30 rods North and South. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #370384F03 (01-26)(02-16) 77565451 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Bryon Janousek and Tracy Janousek, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Wells Fargo Bank, NA, Mortgagee, dated September 21, 2005, and recorded on September 27, 2005 in instrument 1153440, and assigned by said Mortgagee to USBank National Association, as Trustee for MASTR Asset Backed Securities Trust 2006-AB1 as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Three Thousand One Hundred TwentyTwo and 01/100 Dollars ($73,122.01), including interest at 6.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on February 16, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 40 of O.A. Phillips Second Addition, to the Village of Nashville, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats on Page 23. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #391759F01 77565216 (01-19)(02-09) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 26, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Daniel A. Rademacher, a married man, and Michelle L. Rademacher, his wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns., Mortgagee, dated September 23, 2005 and recorded October 3, 2005 in Instrument Number 1153753, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Bank of America, N.A., as successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. FKA Countrywide Home Loans Servicing L.P by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Forty-Two Thousand One Hundred Sixty-Two and 48/100 Dollars ($242,162.48) including interest at 6.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on FEBRUARY 2, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the Township of Irving, County of Barry, State of Michigan: The Northwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4, Section 1, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, Excepting therefrom the North 965 Also Except: Commencing at the Southwest corner of Section 1, Town 4 North, Range 9 West; thence North 00 degrees 28 minutes 41 seconds East, 1319.95 feet along the West line of said Section 1; thence South 89 degrees 37 minutes 50 seconds East, 467.00 feet along the North line of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of said Section 1 to the point of beginning; thence North 79 degrees 46 minutes 56 seconds East, 115.13 feet, thence North 00 degrees 07 minutes 50 seconds West, 26.00 feet; thence North 89 degrees 52 mintues 09 seconds, East, 729.23 feet; thence South 00 degrees 31 minutes 24 seconds West, 53.52 feet along the East line of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of said Section 1; Thence North 89 degrees 37 minutes 50 seconds West, 842.00 feet along the North line of the Southwest 1/4 of the southwest 1/4 of said section 1 to the point of beginning The redemption period shall be 12 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: January 5, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 617.9998 77564968 (01-05)(01-26) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Jeffrey C. Milan and Jodie L. Milan Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 27, 2007, and recorded on May 3, 2007 in instrument 1180066, in Barry county records, Michigan, and assigned by said Mortgagee to PNMAC Mortgage Co., LLC as assignee, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Sixty-Six Thousand Nine Hundred Fifty-Five and 07/100 Dollars ($266,955.07), including interest at 8.9% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on February 9, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel C: A parcel of land located in the Northwest 1/4 of Section 35, Town 1 North, Range 10 West, and being more particularly described as follows: Commencing at the North 1/4 post of Section 35, Town 1 North, Range 10 West; thence South 00 degrees 50 minutes 29 seconds West along the North and South 1/4 line of said section 320.78 feet for the point of beginning of the parcel hereinafter described; thence continuing South 00 degrees 50 minutes 29 seconds West along the North and South 1/4 line of said section 333.94 feet; thence North 89 degrees 09 minutes 03 seconds West parallel with the South line of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of said Section 1317.49 feet; thence North 00 degrees 54 minutes 49 seconds East along the West line of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of said section (formerly referred to as "Norris Road") 333.94 feet; thence South 89 degrees 09 minutes 03 seconds East parallel with said South line 1317.07 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #360092F01 (01-12)(02-02) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Mark R Nelson and Amy J Nelson, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated February 10, 2004, and recorded on February 13, 2004 in instrument 1122208, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Central Mortgage Company as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Seven Thousand Seventy-Nine and 26/100 Dollars ($87,079.26), including interest at 3.625% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on February 9, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Woodland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at a point 96 feet 8 inches West of the Northeast corner of Section 21, Town 4 North, Range 7 West, for the place of beginning; thence running South 58 feet 9 inches; thence East 7 feet 8 inches; thence running North 1 foot; thence running East 11 feet; thence running South 10 and 1/2 Rods; thence West 9 and 1/2 feet ; thence South 4 Rods and 8 and 1/2 feet; thence West 7 Rods and 11 feet; thence North 18 Rods and 8 and 1/2 feet; thence East 7 Rods and 2 feet and 4 inches to the place of beginning. Except a parcel of land in the Northeast 1/4 of Section 21, Town 4 North, Range 7 West, described as: Commencing 96 feet 8 inches West of the Northeast corner of Section 21; thence South 58 feet 9 inches; thence East 7 feet 8 inches thence North 1 foot; thence East 11 feet; thence South 141 feet 1 inch for the place of beginning; thence South 32 feet 2 inch; thence West 9 feet 6 inches; thence South 74 feet 6 inches; thence West 126 feet 6 inches; thence North 106 feet 8 inches; thence East 136 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #355709F02 (01-12)(02-02) -SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by JOHN E. TRUMAN and KATHLIN J. TRUMAN, HUSBAND AND WIFE, to MORTGAGE PLUS OF AMERICA CORPORATION, Mortgagee, dated April 10, 2003, and recorded on April 17, 2003, in Document No. 1102257, and re-recorded on December 6, 2011 in Document No. 201112060011488 and assigned by said mortgagee to U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, as assigned,Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Eight Thousand Four Hundred Fifty-Two Dollars and Thirty Cents ($88,452.30), including interest at 6.000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on February 16, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: COMMENCING AT THE SOUTH 1 / 4 POST OF SECTION 28, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, HOPE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN; THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES 55 MINUTES 28 SECONDS WEST, 35.45 FEET TO THE EASTERLY LINE OF CORDES DRIVE, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT OF ROY K. CORDES SUBDIVISION AND ROY K. CORDES SUBDIVISION NO. 1 AS RECORDED IN LIBER 4 OF PLATS ON PAGE 14, AND LIBER 4 OF PLATS ON PAGE 49 RESPECTIVELY; THENCE THE FOLLOWING COURSES ALONG SAID EASTERLY LINE OF CORDES DRIVE TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING; NORTH 18 DEGREES 19 MINUTES 42 SECONDS WEST, 170.03 FEET; THENCE NORTH 01 DEGREES 05 MINUTES 03 SECONDS WEST, 432.77 FEET TO THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF SAID ROY K. CORDES SUBDIVISION NO. 1 AND THE POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE NORTH 01 DEGREES 05 MINUTES 34 SECONDS WEST, 124.92 FEET ALONG SAID EASTERLY LINE OF CORDES DRIVE; THENCE SOUTH 88 DEGREES 04 MINUTES 09 SECONDS EAST, 250.35 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 01 DEGREES 05 MINUTES 03 SECONDS EAST, 124.92 FEET; THENCE NORTH 88 DEGREES 04 MINUTES 09 SECONDS WEST, 250.35, FEET ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SAID ROY K. CORDES SUBDIVISION NO. 1 TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 USB.002476 (0177565334 19)(02-09) THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Melissa Hasty and Donald K. Hasty, Jr., husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Taylor, Bean and Whitaker Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated July 23, 2009 and recorded July 30, 2009 in Instrument Number 200907300007875, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by FDIC as Receiver for Colonial Bank by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Twenty-Eight Thousand Six Hundred Ninety-Six and 31/100 Dollars ($228,696.31) including interest at 5.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on FEBRUARY 23, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the Township of Hope, County of Barry, State of Michigan, is described as follows: That Part of the East 1/2, Northeast fractional 1/4, Section 4, Town 2 North, Range 9 West; described as: Beginning at the East 1/4 corner of said Section; thence North 88 degrees 59 minutes 27 seconds West 242.38 feet along the South line of said Northeast 1/4; thence North 00 degrees 21 minutes 32 seconds East 815.00 feet along the East line of the West 1075 feet of said East 1/2, Northeast 1/4; thence North 88 degrees 59 minutes 27 seconds West 250.00 feet; thence North 00 degrees 21 minutes 32 seconds East 492.53 feet; thence South 88 degrees 50 minutes 56 seconds East 493.30 feet, along the North line of the Southeast fractional 1/4 of said Northeast fractional 1/4; thence South 00 degrees 23 minutes 54 seconds West 1306.30 feet along the East line of said Section to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 12 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: January 26, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 426.3360 77565478 (01-26)(02-16) THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Scott D. Carrigan, a single man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for GMAC Mortgage Corporation its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated March 1, 2004 and recorded February 23, 2005 in Instrument Number 1141851, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by GMAC Mortgage, LLC by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Two Thousand Three Hundred Forty-Seven and 15/100 Dollars ($72,347.15) including interest at 5.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on FEBRUARY 16, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: All that parcel of land in Barry County, State of Michigan, as more fully described in Deed Instrument Number 1007094, Identification Number 08-03-028-061-00, being known and designated as: A parcel of land being on the East 1/2 of the Southwest one-quarter of Section 28, Town 1 North, Range 9 West, described as commencing at a point in the center of the highway 9 rods South of the center of Section 28; Running thence West 10 rods; Thence South 2 rods; Thence West 4 rods; Thence South 4 rods; Thence East 14 rods to the center of the highway; Thence North 6 rods along the center of the highway to the place of beginning, and containing 76 square rods of land. Also: A parcel of land commencing at a point 15 rods South of the center of Section 28, Town 1 North, Range 9 West ; Thence South 1 rod; Thence West 10 rods; Thence North 1 rod; Thence East 10 rods to the place of beginning. Also: a parcel of land commencing at a point 9 rods South and 10 rods West of the center of Section 28, Town 1 North, Range 9 West; Thence West 4 rods; Thence South 2 rods; Thence East 4 rods; Thence North 2 rods to the place of beginning. All being located on Section 28, Town 1 North, Range 9 West. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: January 19, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 2683 File No. 618.9889 77565253 (01-19)(02-09) 77565391 77565055 77564349 77565068 THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. MORTGAGE SALE -Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Virginia R. Grenz, and William H. Leforce, joint tenants, a single woman, a single man, Mortgagors, to Conseco Finance Servicing Corp., Mortgagee, dated July 26, 2000, and recorded on August 03, 2000, in Instrument No. 1047678, Barry County Records, and assigned by assignment to Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Trustee for Green Tree 2008-MH1, recorded in Barry County Records, Michigan, on which said mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, the sum of One Hundred Ninety-Two Thousand Seven Hundred Seventy-Nine 43/100 ($192,779.43) Dollars, including interest at 9.00% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at the place of holding the Circuit Court sales in Barry County, Michigan, on Thursday, February 23, 2012, at 1:00 p.m. Said premises are situated in the Township of Castleton, County of Barry and State of Michigan and are described as: The West 24 acres of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 18, Town 3 North, Range 7 West, subject to easements, reservations, restrictions and limitations of record, if any. C/k/a 5058 E. State Rd., Hastings, MI 49058. Parcel ID: 05-018-010-00. The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 16, 2012 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Trustee for Green Tree 2008MH1 Assignee of Mortgagee Keith A. Sotiroff, Esq. SOTIROFF & Bobrin, P.C. 30400 Telegraph Road, Ste. 444 Bingham Farms, MI 48025-4541 (248) 642-6000 (01-19)(02-09) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by BRIAN M. SCHAEFER and SARA M. SCHAEFER, husband and wife (collectively, "Mortgagor"), to GREENSTONE FARM CREDIT SERVICES, FLCA, a federally chartered corporation, having an office at 3515 West Road, East Lansing, Michigan 48823 (the "Mortgagee"), dated March 29, 2006, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on March 30, 2006, as Instrument No. 1161954, as amended by an affidavit of correction dated March 1, 2007, recorded March 30, 2007, as Instrument No. 1178100, Barry County Records (the "Mortgage"). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgage Electronic Registration System (MERS) is not the sole foreclosing party. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Forty Four Thousand Thirty Six and 35/100 Dollars ($44,036.35). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public venue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 9th day of February, 2012, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the Township of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: A parcel of land in the Northwest 1/4 of Section 13, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, described as: Beginning at the North 1/4 corner of said Section 13; thence South 00°00'00" West, 544.50 feet along the North and South 1/4 line of said Section 13; thence North 89°24'35" West, 400.00 feet parallel with the North line of said Northwest 1/4 of Section 13; thence North 00°00'00" East, 544.50 feet to said North Section line; thence South 89°24'35" East, 400.00 feet along said Section line to the point of beginning. Subject to an easement for public highway purposes over the Northerly 33 feet thereof for East State Road. Together with all fixtures, tenements, hereditaments, and appurtenances belonging or in any way appertaining to the premises. Commonly known as: 4406 E. State Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058 P.P. #08-06-013-010-10 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. Dated: January 12, 2012 GREENSTONE FARM CREDIT SERVICES, FLCA Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2489 (616) 752-2000 5724104-1 77565353 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Steven M. Onderlinde, Cindy K. Onderlinde, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to First Indiana Bank, N.A., Mortgagee, dated June 25, 2002, and recorded on July 9, 2002 in instrument 1083452, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Five Thousand Five Hundred Ninety-Eight and 98/100 Dollars ($95,598.98), including interest at 4.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on February 2, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Delton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 39 of Lakewood Estates, according to the recorded Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 4 of Plats, Page 19. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #393539F01 77564963 (01-05)(01-26) NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT; ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY SERVICE PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW. ATTENTION POTENTIAL PURCHASERS AT FORECLOSURE SALE: In the case of resolution prior to or simultaneously with the aforementioned foreclosure sale, U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate Trust 19992, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents, may rescind this sale at any time prior to the end of the redemption period. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited to the return of your bid amount tendered at the sale, plus interest. Default having occurred in the conditions of a Mortgage made by Stephen A. Elliott, Jr., an unmarried man ("Debtors") to Green Tree Servicing LLC (f/k/a Green Tree Financial Servicing Corporation), dated October 9, 1998, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry in the State of Michigan on October 9, 1998, in Document Number 1019205, et. seq., said Mortgage being last assigned to U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate Trust 1999-2, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents, ("Green Tree"), by Mortgage Assignment dated December 28, 2011, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry in the State of Michigan on January 9, 2012, in Document Number 201201090000311, et. seq., on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due as of the date of this Notice the sum of $104,661.55, which amount may or may not be the entire indebtedness owed by Debtors to Green Tree together with interest at 6.75 percent per annum. NOW THEREFORE, Notice is hereby given that the power of sale contained in said Mortgage has become operative and that pursuant to that power of sale and MCL 600.3201 et. seq., on March 1, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., on the East steps of the Circuit Court Building in Hastings, Michigan, that being the place for holding the Circuit Court and/or for conducting such foreclosure sales for the County of Barry, there will be offered at public sale, the premises, or some part thereof, described in said Mortgage as follows, to-wit: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF BARRY, COUNTY OF BARRY, STATE OF MICHIGAN, IS DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: PARCEL A: THAT PART OF THE SOUTHWEST 1/4 OF THE SOUTHWEST 1/4 OF SECTION 8, TOWN 1 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, DESCRIBED AS: COMMENCING AT THE WEST 1/8 POST OF THE SOUTHWEST 1/4; THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES 57' 37" EAST ON THE EAST AND WEST 1/8 LINE OF THE SOUTHWEST 1/4, 54.21 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING OF THIS DESCRIPTION; THENCE CONTINUING NORTH 89 DEGREES 57' 37" EAST, 729.09 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 26 DEGREES 37' 35" WEST, 361.52 FEET TO THE CENTERLINE OF FLORIA ROAD; THENCE NORTH 66 DEGREES 16' 54" WEST ON SAID CENTERLINE, 407.60 FEET; THENCE CONTINUING ON SAID CENTERLINE NORTH 62 DEGREES 31' 00" WEST, 163.68 FEET; THENCE CONTINUING ON SAID CENTERLINE NORTH 32 DEGREES 07' 43" WEST 67.90 FEET; THENCE CONTINUING ON SAID CENTERLINE NORTH 26 DEGREES 05' 11" WEST, 28.60 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. which also includes any interest Green Tree may have in the 1998 Fleetwood Mobile Home, Serial Number NFLW22AB05526BJ13. The redemption period shall be one (1) year from the date of sale unless the property is established to be abandoned pursuant to MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of sale or fifteen (15) days from the date the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(b) was posted and mailed. Dated: January 20, 2012 U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate Trust 1999-2, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents, By: DONALD A. BRANDT (P30183) BRANDT, FISHER, ALWARD & PEZZETTI, P.C. Attorneys for Green Tree 1241 E. Eighth Street, P.O. Box 5817 Traverse City, Michigan 49696-5817 (231) 941-9660 File No.: 6140.1060 Ad #19601 01/26, 02/02, 02/09, 02/16/2012 77565444 �Page 12 — Thursday, January 26, 2012 — The Hastings Banner UM poll: Incentives working, but local officials lukewarm about state funding reforms Only a small minority of local officials in Michigan believe that major reforms in the way they receive state funding that require adoption of “dashboard” reports will be effective in improving the overall performance of their governments, according to the latest Michigan Public Policy Survey at the University of Michigan. The sweeping policy changes began last year and require local governments that are eligible for funding to create dashboards — scorecards that measure their performance in key areas, such as fiscal stability, public safety and economic strength. State policymakers believe these dashboards will help improve the accountability and transparency of local governments. Eligible local governments must produce the dashboards to show that they are meeting the state’s standards and qualify to receive their share of state funds available in the new system, the Economic Vitality Incentive Program, which replaced the former statutory revenue-sharing program. So far, the policy changes have received a lukewarm reception from most local officials, according to the survey from the University of Michigan’s Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy. Only 10 percent of all local leaders think a dashboard would be very effective at improving their jurisdiction’s accountability and transparency, the poll said. The survey also found that only 8 percent think a dashboard would be very effective at improving their local government’s overall performance. Officials from the smallest jurisdictions eligible for the dashboard-incentive program said they know very little, if anything, about it. Local officials expressed a number of common concerns about dashboards, including that they sometimes measure factors beyond the control of local government, and that measures can be ambiguous, resulting in flawed understanding and inappropriate comparisons between jurisdictions. Another finding that should concern the state is that 24 percent of the officials from COURT NEWS Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Mark Andrew Meier, 51, of Kalamazoo was sentenced Jan. 18 for operating under the influence of liquor, third offense. He was ordered to serve 90 days in jail, with credit for two days served. He must pay $150 a month toward $1,698 in costs and serve 24 months on probation. The balance of his jail time will be suspended upon successful completion of probation. Meier’s driver’s license was suspended. A charge of operating a vehicle with license suspended, revoked or denied was dropped. Call 945-9554 for more information. Leroy Hill of Hastings was sentenced Jan. 18 for failing to register as a sex offender. Hill, 30, was ordered to serve nine months in GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! the smallest jurisdictions eligible for the dashboard-incentive program said they know very little, if anything, about it. Officials in large jurisdictions were quite familiar with the program, the poll found. Despite the doubts about the value of dashboards, the state’s incentive program appears to be working; 90 percent of the local governments that are eligible for funds in the program say they have created a dashboard or will do so in the next 12 months. By comparison, only 26 percent of local governments that are not eligible for funds are creating dashboards. The survey was done by the Ford School’s Center for Local, State and Urban Policy. The poll, conducted from Oct. 3 to Nov. 23, involved online and hardcopy surveys sent to the top elected and appointed officials in all of the counties, cities, villages and townships in Michigan. A total of 1,330 jurisdictions returned valid surveys, resulting in a 72 percent response rate. The margin of error for the survey as a whole was 1.43 percentage points. The report is available online at http://closup.umich.edu jail, with credit for 55 days served. He must pay $198 in costs. A charge of habitual offender, third offense, was dropped. Marlaina Rae-Eunice Beard, 28, of Delton was sentenced for operating a vehicle under the influence with an occupant under 16 years old and a second offense. Beard was ordered to serve six months in jail. She must pay $1,198 in costs, $65 a month. She must attend Alcoholics Anonymous, cognitive behavior therapy, substance abuse assessment and treatment. Her vehicle was immobilized. A charge of operating with license suspended, revoked or denied was dropped. LEGAL NOTICES SYNOPSIS Barry Township Board Regular Meeting January 3, 2012 Regular meeting opened @ 7:00 p.m. ROLL CALL: 4 board members and 7 guests. Motion approved minutes and Treasurers reports for January 2012. Motion approved agenda as presented. Motion approved Labor and MFR billing for BPH and HCFD. Motion approved to adopt the Fair Lake Sewer Funding Shortfall agreement, also send a letter to the SWBCSWA to request the agreement be placed on the January agenda. Motion approved a base water increase of 12%. Motion approved to request a sustainable water meter replacement plan included in the resolution for the 12% base water increase. Motion approved bills and check register for January 2012. Adjourned @ 8:22 p.m. Respectfully, Attested to by: Debra J. Knight Wesley Kahler Barry Township Clerk Barry Township Supervisor 77565342 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Joan Patricia Leos, a Single Woman, original mortgagor(s), to Lansing Automakers Federal CU, Mortgagee, dated August 27, 2002, and recorded on September 6, 2002 in instrument 1086940, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Four Thousand Four Hundred Seventy-Four and 97/100 Dollars ($84,474.97), including interest at 6.99% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on February 16, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Woodland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 7 and 8 of Block 9 of the Village of Woodland, according to the recorded Plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #383088F01 77565235 (01-19)(02-09) NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. Notwithstanding, if the debt secured by this property was discharged in a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy proceeding, this notice is NOT an attempt to collect that debt. You are presently in default under your Mortgage Security Agreement, and the Mortgage Holder may be contemplating the commencement of foreclosure proceedings under the terms of that Agreement and Michigan law. You have no legal obligation to pay amounts due under the discharged note. A loan modification may not serve to revive that obligation. However, in the event you wish to explore options that may avert foreclosure, please contact our office at the number listed below. Attention: The following notice shall apply only if the property encumbered by the mortgage described below is claimed as a principal residence exempt from tax under section 7cc of the general property tax act, 1893 PA 206, MCL 211.7cc. Attention Joseph D. Kruger and Jennifer S. Kruger, regarding the property at 3888 River Rd., Hastings, MI 49058. The following notice does not apply if you have previously agreed to modify the mortgage loan under section 3205b. 3205a, 3205b and 3205c do not apply unless the terms of the modified mortgage loan entered into were complied with for one year after the date of the modification. You have the right to request a meeting with your mortgage holder or mortgage servicer. Potestivo & Associates, P.C. is the designee with authority to make agreements under MCL 600.3205b and MCL 600.3205c, and can be contacted at: 811 South Blvd., Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123. You may also contact a housing counselor. For more information, contact the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) by visiting www.michigan.gov/mshda or calling (866) 9467432. If you request a meeting with Potestivo & Associates, P.C. within 14 days after the notice required under MCL 600.3205a(1) is mailed, then foreclosure proceedings will not commence until at least 90 days after the date said notice was mailed. If an agreement to modify the mortgage loan is reached and you abide by the terms of the agreement, the mortgage will not be foreclosed. You have the right to contact an attorney and can obtain contact information through the State Bar of Michigan’s Lawyer Referral Service at (800) 968-0738. Dated: January 26, 2012. Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 information may be faxed to (248)267-3004, Attention: Loss Mitigation Our File 77565500 No: 12-56331 (01-26) STATE OF MICHIGAN JUDICIAL CIRCUIT- FAMILY DIVISION Barry COUNTY PUBLICATION OF HEARING CASE NO. 11- 8208- NA PETITION NO. TO: Samantha Straley, whose address is unkown and whose interest in the matter may be barred or affected by the following: IN THE MATTER OF: Bailey and Payton Leach A hearing regarding a bench trial regarding termination of parental rights will be conducted by the court on Friday, February 17, 2012 at 8:30am in Barry County Trial Court-Family Division, 206 W. Court St., 3rd floor, Hastings, MI 49058 before Judge William M. Doherty IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED that Samantha Straley personally appear before the court at the time and place stated above. This hearing may result in the termination of your 77565507 parental rights. FORECLOSURE NOTICE RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES, P.C. MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. Mortgage Sale - Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by Katherine J Niles, and Jeremiah A Niles, wife and husband to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. acting solely as a nominee for Countrywide Home Loans Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 19, 2004, and recorded on May 3, 2004, as Document Number: 1126789, Barry County Records, said mortgage was assigned to Bank of America, N.A. successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing L.P FKA COUNTRYWIDE HOME LOANS SERVICING LP by an Assignment of Mortgage dated October 05, 2011 and recorded October 17, 2011 by Document Number: 201110170009725, , on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Four Thousand Nine Hundred Eighty-One and 31/100 ($134,981.31) including interest at the rate of 5.75000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the Circuit Court in said Barry County, where the premises to be sold or some part of them are situated, at 01:00 PM on February 23, 2012 Said premises are situated in the Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: COMMENCING AT A POINT ON THE NORTH LINE OF SECTION 2, TOWN 3 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST, ON THE WESTERLY LINE OF HIGHWAY M-37 FOR POINT OF BEGINNING, THENCE WEST 1042.5 FEET ON SAID SECTION LINE, THENCE SOUTH 175 FEET, THENCE EAST PARALLEL WITH THE NORTH LINE OF SECTION 2, TO THE WESTERLY LINE OF HIGHWAY M-37, THENCE NORTHWESTERLY ALONG WESTERLY HIGHWAY LINE OF M-37 TO PLACE OF BEGINNING. Commonly known as: 1993 N M37 HWY The redemption period shall be 12.00 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or 15 days after statutory notice, whichever is later. Dated: January 26, 2012 Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Bank of America, N.A. successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing L.P FKA COUNTRYWIDE HOME LOANS SERVICING LP 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 (248) 335-9200 Case No. 11MI02070-1 (01-26)(02-16) POLICE BEAT Driver fish-tails into trouble Hastings Police stopped a motorist for fish-tailing on Woodlawn Avenue Jan. 21. The officer stopped the driver, and discovered the 29-year-old Dutton man’s license had been suspended for not paying previous fines and for failing to appear in court. Police also learned the driver had two outstanding arrest warrants for contempt of court in Kent County with a $1,000 bond, and a warrant in Wexford County for alleged destruction of property. The driver was arrested. His vehicle was impounded and towed from the scene. Resident’s Social Security number being used in Illinois A Hastings woman reported to deputies Jan. 12 that when she called the unemployment office to start a claim benefits, she was told her Social Security number was being used in Illinois. She was told by the official to call local police and file a report. A deputy took the report, supplied a report number, and told the woman to contact the Social Security Administration which would start an investigation. The case is closed. Man quickly forgets what argument Child wants to live was about with grandfather A Hastings police officer traveling North Michigan Avenue Jan. 20 noticed three men arguing. One individual removed his jacket and threw it into the middle of the roadway, put up his hands and walked toward the other two, seemingly challenging them to fight. A yelling match followed between the three individuals. The subject who had been challenging the others to fight was taken aside and interviewed. He said all three were arguing, but he did not recall what the argument was about. He told police the other two men had forced him from the home and assaulted him. The other two subjects said the first man had been removed from the home after he had become unruly. The 21-year-old fight instigator was arrested for being disorderly person. Alcohol is believed to be a contributing factor, according to police. Man needs space for new business Nashville Police and Barry County Deputies were dispatched to a residence on East M-79 Jan. 17 on a report of an unwanted subject at the house. The complainant told officers an unknown man rang the doorbell around 7:30 p.m. She said her husband opened the door, and the subject entered the home without being invited. The woman said the man started talking about the barns on her property and whether he could use them to manufacture dog food. The subject identified himself. According to the woman, when she mentioned her landlord, the 45-yearold Woodland man left. A witness was able to provide officers with license plate information, which confirmed the man’s identification. When contacted, the man denied entering without permission, but was told the report would be forwarded to the prosecutor’s office. He was advised not to return to the complainant’s home. Big plans yield pop cans Deputies were dispatched to an Orangeville Township home Jan. 14 on a suspected breaking and entering. The caller reported footprints around his home and said several bags of returnable cans were missing. Someone had entered the garage and taken the cans. Upon investigation, deputies found fresh pry marks around the home’s entry door inside the garage. No entry was gained into the residence. The complainant acknowledged he had left the garage entry doors unlocked. An investigation showed a vehicle had been driven into the driveway, and a subject walked around to the back door of the garage. After trying to pry the home’s entry door, the subject took the cans from the garage and left by the front garage door. Deputies asked the complainant to check his vehicles for missing garage door openers. There are no suspects at this time. Deputies were dispatched to a reported assault of a child in Bellevue. The grandfather, the legal guardian, said the boy’s father had assaulted the boy and then left in an unknown make of car. The grandfather said his son had a substance abuse problem and was on probation. The boy told deputies he was stacking firewood when his father approached, yelling at him. When the boy walked away, the subject grabbed his son by his coat and hair, pushed him up against a post and began choking the boy. The man then pushed the boy into a chair and punched him in the head. The grandfather found the two and chased the subject off, threatening to call the police. Reportedly, the boy had red marks on his neck and head, but did not seek treatment. The 36-year-old Bellevue man was reported to Child Protective Services and his probation officer. The case was turned over to the prosecutor’s office for review. Thieves target sign, cement blocks A man called deputies Jan. 7 to report the theft of six cement blocks and a “No Trespassing” sign from a business near M43 and M-37 in Hastings. He told deputies the same thing also happened last month. There are no suspects at this time. Pipes stolen from under vacant house A deputy was dispatched to a vacant residence on Brook Drive near Thornapple Lake for breaking and entering. The homeowner said a new tenant was going to move into the residence and found all the copper pipe missing from the home. The man said someone had crawled under the house and cut away all the pipes. The plumbing was valued at $1,000. The case remains open. Stepfather beat up after stepson ‘snaps’ Deputies were dispatched to a Doster Road residence Jan. 16 after getting a report of a verbal altercation. The individuals involved were not hurt and refused to press charges. Deputies left, only to be redispatched, along with a state trooper, to the same home 1 1/2 hours later on a domestic assault report. A 41-year-old Plainwell man had allegedly beaten his stepfather. When deputies arrived, the stepfather was bleeding from both ears and had many bumps and swollen areas on his head, back, shoulders and arms. According to the victim, the subject had “just snapped.” The victim was allegedly hit with a step stool several times. According to the subject, his stepfather threw the first punch and that was all he had to say. The man refused to take a Breathalyzer test. He was arrested for domestic violence. 77565502 See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 26, 2012 — Page 13 Knights fall 7-1 in their ‘Blood Match’ with South by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Off the ice it was a very good day for the Unity Knight hockey team which hosted the O-K Conference Tier III showcase at Grand Rapids Edge ice arena in Byron Center Saturday. Not only was it the Tier III showcase, but the Knights hosted a “Blood Match” day, in which they wore special red jerseys and raised funds for the Be The Match Foundation. “Team Be The Match is a nationwide community committed to helping patients in need of a marrow transplant by raising funds to add more potential marrow donors to Be The Match Registry,” according to the foundation’s website. There were 15 new donors signed up throughout the course of the day. The Knights had some other fun as well. “Real good team camaraderie,” said Unity head coach Tom Elliott. “We had the ugliest sweater contest today, which was fun.” Goalkeeper Brandon Johnson was the winner of that competition. “The guys seem to be having a pretty good time, other than the wins and losses. This team is really tight as a group, which is really good. That helps when you’re having a tough year like we are.” The Knights’ tough year on the ice contin- Unity Knight forward Taylor Klotz carries the puck into the offensive zone late in the first period Saturday against South Christian. (Photo by Brett Bremer) At right: Unity Knight forward Chase Judkins races towards the South Christian end as the Sailors’ Sam Bouman gives chase during the third period Saturday night at the Edge in Byron Center. (Photo by Brett Bremer) ued Saturday. They played in the only nonconference contest of the showcase, falling 71 to South Christian. “Tough game,” said Elliott. “We played well for the first two periods, then we decided in the third period, as we have a habit of doing, we just implode. Young mistakes I guess. It was tough for the boys, especially against that team.” South Christian had just a 1-0 lead after one period, on a goal by Josh Riemersma. Penalties hurt the Knights in the second period, as the Sailors’ Jacob Meekhof scored two power play goals in the first three and a half minutes of the period. “That really hurt. The two power play goals were tough. Then, three of our guys got injured, that even made things worse. The two power play goals were tough, which changed the momentum,” Elliott said. The Knights got a little momentum back as Taylor Klotz scored his team’s lone goal at the 15:29 mark of the second period. Joe Smith did his best all night to be a presence in front of Sailor goalkeeper Dennis Hoekzema, and did so on the Knights’ scoring play. Smith earned an assist, as did teammate Jeremy Van deRoovart. “Joe is a pretty tough kid. He gets out in front of the net. He’s a young kid too, a sophomore. Our first line plays really well,” said Elliott. The Knights hoped the goal was a good sign for things to come, but it wasn’t. “We scored that goal at the end of the second and I thought really we were catching fire and I thought maybe the third period would be good, and we came out and let them score right away,” Elliott said. The Sailors’ Jeff Oostydk carried the puck behind the Knight net in the first minute of the third period, and tapped a pass in front to teammate Blake DeVries who one-timed it past Unity keeper Johnson to put their team back in front by three goals. The Sailors then extended their lead with goals by Luke VanLaar, Riemersma and a third goal by Meekhof. South Christian had 41 shots on goal in the contest. The Unity Knights were scheduled to take on West Ottawa Wednesday, and they’ll be back in action at Jenison Friday. Feb. 1, the Knights host Grand Rapids Christian. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 Automotive For Rent Estate Sale 2000 FORD EXCURSION: Excellent condition, $8,400. (269)838-9189 ALGONQUIN LAKE 1BD on the lake. $500/month, 1st months rent + security deposit. Call Michelle, 616-2933104. ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. Business Services Help Wanted BOOKKEEPING SERVICES Personal * Self-Employed * Small Business Payroll * Billing Accounts Receivable * Accounts Payable General Ledger Weekly * Monthly * Quarterly * Annually Call today! (269)420-5714 DRIVER TRAINEES NEEDED NOW! Become a driver for Werner Enterprises! Earn $750 per week! No experience needed! Local CDL Training! Job ready in 15 days! 1-877-649-2697. RICK TAYLOR’S DETAIL WORKS. Auto cleaning service. Hours: 8am-5pm. (269)948-0958. For Sale AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 BEAT THE RUSH!! Order a memory quilt for your graduate today! Call Marcie (269)303-3051 FIREWOOD FOR SALE. $160 for a full cord, free delivery. Call (616)835-1795 GET THE SMOKE, ash, and wood mess outside - Central Boiler Classic Outdoor Wood Furnace with a 25 year warranty. Call SOS you “Stocking Dealer” Dutton, MI (616)554-8669 or (616)915-5061 PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: 77564784 DO YOU WANT QUALITY PRINTING at affordable prices? Call J-Ad Graphics at (269)945-9554. National Ads THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is deceptive, fraudulent or might otherwise violate law or accepted standards of taste. However, this publication does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the quality of goods or services advertised. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made in any advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you ask for money in advance of delivery of goods or services advertised. HASTINGS BANNER SUBSCRIPTIONS: Phone (269)945-9554. AUCTION : FEBRUARY 8th, 10am at Go Go Auto Parts, 7709 Kingsbury Rd., Delton. 2000 Jeep Cherokee, 4.0, 4x4. Minimum bid must cover towing, storage and additional fees, vehicle on site. Questions call- Go Go Auto Parts, (269)623-2775 Recreation WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are interested in leasing acreage for this years deer season. Call (269)795-3049 structed entirely by Michigan-based companies, with most of the suppliers being from Michigan, as well. The solar panels have a 25-year warranty. Saturday, Jan. 28, the Michigan Historical Center will present “The Invention and Reinvention of Michigan,” a day filled with activities celebrating the 175th anniversary of Michigan Statehood. The center will kick off the celebration at 11 a.m. with a free slice of birthday cake for the first 100 people through the door. In celebration of Michigan’s first political invention — statehood — Saturday activities will include quilters, surveyors, the spice trade and cornhusk dolls in the museum galleries. Michigan’s first constitution will be on display along with a digital copy that visitors can page through on an iPad. Succeeding inventions will be celebrated with a self-guided gallery tour highlighting inventions and reinventions throughout Michigan’s history, from birchbark canoes to Vernors soda and the 1963 Constitution. An interactive game will demonstrate the valuable contributions Michigan has made since statehood. “Michigan’s people have been pioneers of change, in the way we think, in the physical work we do, and the methods in which we do it. Along the way we have built a state we can be proud of; a state that perseveres,” said Michigan Historical Center Director Sandra Clark. Modern technology and concepts for future inventions will be represented by unique displays from local technology developers including the Lansing Hacker Space. The festivities will conclude at 4 p.m. Visit www.michigan.gov/museum for details. Michigan was accepted into the Union on Jan. 26, 1837. Already an independent-thinking state, it had been operating under its first constitution and governed by its first elected governor, Stevens T. Mason since 1835. The delay was caused by a disagreement with Ohio over a piece of territory called the Toledo Strip. In the end, Ohio, already a state, won Toledo, but Michigan got the iron, copper and scenic beauty of the western Upper Peninsula. Holiday sales better for most Michigan retailers MDOT’s first alternative energy project is just up the road a piece The Michigan Department of Transportation, in partnership with the Pure Michigan Energy Office, is using a $650,000 U.S. Department of Energy grant to install alternative energy technology in the city of Grand Rapids at the I-96/East Beltline Avenue interchange. This technology will be the first of its kind installed in Michigan. The innovative project, underway and anticipated to be operational this spring, involves placing solar panels above selected parking spaces in an existing MDOT carpool lot. These solar arrays will feed power directly into the electrical grid during the day and offset the power needed for the freeway interchange lights at night. A process called net metering will eliminate the need to purchase and maintain batteries for the system since the power meter will essentially spin backward during the day. The elevated photovoltaic arrays also will provide approximately 45 covered and LED-illuminated parking spaces. “The goal of this green project is to demonstrate how alternative energy technology can reduce MDOT’s future operating costs and greenhouse gas emissions,” said State Transportation Director Kirk T. Steudle. “Solar-powered lighting will help keep this lot and interchange lit and improve safety for motorists.” Real-time data will be posted online showing current and historical energy generation information. The system is expected to produce approximately 106,000 kilowatt-hours per year, resulting in an estimated annual energy savings of $13,500. In addition, revenue from Solar Renewable Energy Credits will help to further offset the cost of the system. The project is being designed and con- Two-thirds of Michigan retailers rang up better holiday sales, with most retailers boosting sales by more than 5 percent, according to the latest Michigan Retail Index, a joint project of Michigan Retailers Association and the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago. “It was a good holiday season, and the second consecutive year of positive holiday results,” said MRA President and CEO James P. Hallan. “Sales were strongest early in the season and remained positive throughout — we would have been surprised if the final numbers had been different than they turned out.” Michigan retailers went into the season more bullish than national forecasts. On average, the state’s retailers projected a 6 percent gain over the previous year. While the final average was a 4 percent gain, 53 percent of retailers improved sales by more than 5 percent, and 13 percent by 0.1 to 5 percent. Nationally, the U.S. Commerce Department said sales rose by 0.4 percent in November and 0.1 in December. The National Retail Federation said a narrower category it defined as “holiday sales” grew by 4.1 percent. The Michigan Retail Index for December found that 43 percent of retailers increased sales over the same month last year, while 35 percent recorded declines and 22 percent saw no change. The results create a seasonally adjusted performance index of 59.1, down from 63.2 in November but up from 58.3 in October. The index gauges the performance of the state’s overall retail industry, based on monthly surveys conducted by MRA and the Federal Reserve. Index values above 50 gen- erally indicate positive activity; the higher the number, the stronger the activity. Dr. Light to be enshrined in Michigan Aviation Hall of Fame The Michigan Aviation Hall of Fame has announced its class of 2012 enshrinees. Among the honorees is a former Barry County resident, Dr. Richard Upjohn Light, aviation explorer, surgeon and geographer. Dr. Richard Upjohn Light was born in 1902 in Kalamazoo. In 1934, he flew around the world in a Balance Skyrocket mounted on pontoons. In 1937, he piloted an exploration flight over Peru, South Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Kenya and the Egyptian pyramids in a Bellanca monoplane. Since many parts of the world hadn’t been photographed yet, Light took photos for the American Geographical Society in order to build an archive of aerial views. He served as the society’s president and was the first chairman of Kalamazoo’s Airport Advisory Commission. The MAHF will enshrine the Class of 2012 on May 19 at the Air Zoo. For more information, call 269-350-2813. Light, who also was a retired neurosurgeon and former director of the Upjohn Company in Kalamazoo, and his wife, Irmgard, are perhaps best known in Barry County for the more than 1,300 acres of property they donated to MSU’s Kellogg Biological Station. The property, known as Lux Arbor Reserve, is just south of Prairieville and includes rolling meadows, Christmas tree plantations, wetlands, lakes and hardwood forests. The Lights lived on the property for more than 25 years before donating the land to KBS in 1991. The land is used for research and, according to the Lights’ request, will not be sold or developed. S A LT S A L E FRIDAY, JAN. 27TH 8 AM-5 PM SATURDAY, JAN. 28TH 9 AM-12 NOON SALT Cash & Carry 40-lb 50-lb. Cube $ 49 SALT....... 5 + Tax Rustbuster $ 54 Cube ........... 5 + Tax High Purity Water Softener Salt 1-800-852-3098 269-945-5102 141 E. Woodlawn Ave. Hastings OPEN DAILY 8-5; SAT. 9-12 Denker Family Owned & Operated ~ Rick Denker, Owner 07561810 All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. ROY HALL’S AUTO DETAILING: 25 years serving Barry County, (269)948-8377. Community Notices At 175, state is still a beauty �Page 14 — Thursday, January 26, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Delton wrestlers even up their conference record by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Constantine gets to make two trips to Delton Kellogg for duals this season. The Falcons sat on the far side of the gym scoring two victories as the Panthers did the same on their side during their Kalamazoo Valley Association Quad at Delton Kellogg High School Wednesday. Both the Falcons and Panthers took on Olivet and Galesburg-Augusta in league duals. Things will be a bit more interesting with Constantine and Delton Kellogg actually meet up Feb. 1. Delton Kellogg’s varsity wrestling team improved to 2-2 in the KVA by topping Olivet 54-24 and Galesburg-Augusta 58-19. Constantine topped the Rams 78-4 and then the Eagles 77-3. Neither Olivet or Galesburg-Augusta had even half a line-up to throw at its opponents. “Nothing changes,” said Delton Kellogg head coach Dan Phillips. “We practice the same whether we’re going to wrestle Constantine, which has three or four kids at every weight class, or Galesburg which has five kids in their starting line-up. We’re going to practice hard every week, every day. We don’t have the good fortune to be able to rest on our laurels. We are a work in progress, therefore we have to get better every day.” The Panthers won two of the six matches they actually wrestled with the Eagles. The Panthers’ Evan Curtice pinned Alex Herlein 1 minute and 2 seconds into their 160-pound match. That was the only win in the first four bouts of the dual for Delton, as Olivet scored pins at 152 pounds, 171 and 189. Delton Kellogg tied the match at 18-18 with Devin Kallee pinning Shawn Schumaker in the 215-pound match and Logan Montes pinning Jarred Calkins at 285 pounds. Neither team had a wrestler at 112 pounds, that they actually wrestled. “I thought we had a great week of practice this week, with a lot of focus. We focused on that. We focused on fundamentals. I think it showed.” Delton won two of the five matches it wrestled with Galesburg-Augusta. Hunter Chilton pinned Brian Noel 57 seconds into the 171-pound match, and the Panthers also Galesburg-Augusta 119-pounder Michael Underwood (left) fights off a shot from Delton Kellogg’s Bobby Bottom during the first period of their match Wednesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) and Delton won by forfeit at 103, 119, 125, 130, 135 and 140 pounds. Winning by pin for the Eagles were Cam Murphy at 145 pounds, Jordan Smith at 152, Derek Parsons at 171 and Correy Huffman at 189. “We set out sights on Olivet this week,” said Phillips. “They’re a quality team. They might not fill all the weight classes, but the guys they have are quality guys. They’re tough. We saw them wrestle at Parchment, and Parchment only won one of the matches The Panthers’ Devin Kallee closes in on his third-period pin of Olivet’s Shawn Schumaker during the 215-pound match in their teams’ KVA dual Wednesday at Delton Kellogg High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Delton Kellogg’s Logan Montes (back) and Olivet’s Jarred Calkins battle for control during the first period of their 285pound bout Wednesday night. (Photo by Brett Bremer) had Austin Ketola win a 13-1 major decision over Devan Underwood at 130 pounds. The winners for Galesburg-Augusta included Michael Underwood, who topped Delton’s Bobby Bottom 7-6 at 119 pounds; Justin Johnson who earned a major decision at 125 pounds, and Jesse Ring who won by pin at 152 pounds. The Rams forfeited the 160-, 189-, 215-, 112-, 135-, 140- and 145-pound weight classes. Delton forfeited at 103 pounds. “As a team I saw progress. We are getting better,” said Phillips. “Every day we talk about getting better. We have really, I hesitate to say turned the corner, but it’s starting to feel like we’ve turned the corner a little bit. We wrestled really well. I was proud of the way they wrestled on Saturday at Bangor, and then we followed that up with a good performance tonight against a quality Olivet team and Galesburg has got some quality individuals too.” Delton Kellogg was scheduled to take on Pennfield and Maple Valley in league action yesterday at Pennfield High School. Delton returns to action Feb. 1 when it hots Constantine, as well as non-conference foes Paw Paw and Gull Lake, for a quad. DK boys third in KVA after high-scoring loss at Olivet Olivet remains undefeated in the Kalamazoo Valley Association at 9-0 thanks to a 79-74 victory over Delton Kellogg’s varsity boys’ basketball team Tuesday. Delton Kellogg built a 31-29 lead in the first half, but the Eagles rallied with 30 points in the third quarter to get in front. The two teams combined to score 93 points in the second half. The Panthers knocked down nine threepointers in the game, including four by Norm O’Meara. He led Delton Kellogg with 24 points in the loss. Delton Kellogg is now 7-2 in the league, behind the Eagles and 8-1 Schoolcraft. Delton also got 13 points from Ryan Watson and ten from Mitchell Wandell. Zach Meyers chipped in nine, Ryan Hook eight and Zach Leinaar seven. Tanner McCarn had 19 points for the Eagles. He hit three threes himself. Olivet also got 18 points from Quintan Harris, ten from Jeremiah Woodworth, nine from Nick Coolidge and eight from Zach Flemming. Delton Kellogg is 8-2 overall this season. Delton scored its eighth win of the year Friday at Pennfield, topping the KVA’s green and gold Panthers 54-50. Pennfield built an 11-point first-half lead, but the Delton boys rallied with a 17-7 run in the third quarter. Watson had a big night at the free throw line, going 8-of-10. He led Delton with 15 points. Wandell finished with 12 points and Adam May had ten. Pennfield got 15 points from Jon Everett and 11 from Jake Grimes. Nathan Wallace chipped in nine points in the loss. Delton Kellogg starts the second half of the conference season Friday, at Maple Valley. Tuesday the Panthers will be at home against Hackett Catholic Central. BOWLING SCORES Monday Mixerettes NBT 49.5-30.5; Kent Oil 43-37; Dean’s Dolls 42.5-37.5; Nashville Chiropractic 3941; Dewey’s Auto Body 38-42; James Process Service 28-52. Good Games and Series - S. Nash 152; D. James 178; S. Dunham 164-484; N. Potter 159; K. Fowler 184; M. Rodgers 187-513; D. Snyder 193-538; T. Christopher 187; E. Ulrich 172; J. Rice 179; L. Elliston 206-573. Delton Kellogg’s Zach Leinaar attacks the basket as Pennfield’s Jon Everett swats at the ball from behind Friday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Delton Kellogg’s Adam May tries to power his way past Pennfield’s Jon Everett in the post Friday night. (Photo by Perry Hardin) DeWitt and Lansing Catholic top Vikes by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Vikings were never really out of it, but they were never really all the way into it either Friday. Lakewood’s varsity girls’ basketball team fell to 2-3 in the Capital Area Activities Conference White Division with a 53-33 loss to Lansing Catholic at Lakewood High School. “We didn’t respond to their pressure,” said Lakewood head coach Denny Frost. “We had too many turnovers and didn’t get into an offensive flow.” The Vikings didn’t play well in the first half, but still only trailed the Cougars 27-19 at the half, and 31-22 heading into the fourth quarter. The Vikings had the ball with a chance to cut the Lansing Catholic lead to four with about four and a half minutes remaining, but missed on the opportunity. The Cougars made their free throws down the stretch to extend their lead from there. Kelly McKeon led the Cougars with 12 points on the night. She was 8-of-8 at the foul line, hitting six of those in the fourth quarter. Lansing Catholic also got 11 points from Alyssa Albright, who hit three threes. Kristin Hilley paced the Vikings with nine points. Emily Kutch chipped in eight points and ten rebounds. Brooke Wieland had five points and three assists, and Madi King chipped in four points, six rebounds and four steals. “Not sure if it was the long layoff in between games, but we didn’t come with the same intensity that we normally have,” Frost said. “We took a few steps back tonight, which was a little disappointing. “We need to do a better job of keeping the game at a pace we can have some success at. LCC is a very good team that plays up tempo. The Viking coach was pleased with the efforts of some of his girls off the bench, including Ellie Reynolds and Liz Campeau. Lakewood is now 3-9 overall. The Vikings fell in non-conference action, 56-32 at DeWitt High School. “We are back to playing two quarters not four,” said Frost. “DeWitt had something to do with that, but we are better then the score showed tonight. It is ultimately up to me to get them to play better, so we will go back to work and see what we can get done.” DeWitt led 29-21 at the half, and the Vikings felt like it could have been even closer if they’d made a few more easy shots they’d earned in the first half. DeWitt then went on a 16-3 run in the third quarter to take control of the basketball game. “We came out flat the second half and they took it to us pretty good,” said Frost. He was pleased with the play of Hannah DeJong, as well as the performance of Liz Campeau and Lexi Fetterman off the bench. DeJong led Lakewood with nine points. Campeau played just 11 minutes and led the Vikings in rebounds with five. The Vikings also got six points each from King and Kutch. Erica Goodenough had 11 points for the Panthers, and Hanna Stoll had ten. Lakewood returns to league action at home against Williamston Friday, then will be at home Wednesday to make up its contest with Hastings at 5 p.m. Lakewood is now 3-9 overall Senior Citizens Butterfingers 52-28; Just Having Fun 46.533.5; Kuempel 44-36; Ustedtobe #1 42-38; Three Gals and a Guy 41-39; Early Risers 4040; King Pins 40-40; M&M’s 39-41; Sun Risers 33.5-46.5; Ward’s Friends 22-58. Women’s Good Games and Series - Y. Cheeseman 180-460; G. Scobey 175-473; P. Shellington 162-464; N. Boniface 191-498; M. Kingsley 103-302; S. Patch 228-608; B. Benedict 185-456; D. Larsen 157-456; M. Wieland 178-480. Men’s Good Games and Series - M. Saldivar 202-532; R. McDonald 257; R. Boniface 182; C. Purdum Sr. 190; L. Brandt 255-592; W. Mallekoote 171-458; H. Gibson 158. Wednesday PM Mills Landing 52-23; The River 44-32; Eye & ENT 44-33; Hair Care 38.5-33.5*; Four Pals 37.5-38.5. Good Games and Series - S. Beebe 172; P. Fowler 165-454; N. Potter 182-451; L. Elliston 203-532; T. Christopher 187-520; Y. Cheeseman 166; R. Pitts 151-419; P. Freeman 168-435. *Games to be made up. Tuesday Trios Rollarama 56-28; CB’s 54-30; Lu’s Team 49-35; Shirlee’s Team 47-37; Look Insurance 47-37; Twisted Sisters 46-38; Blair Landscaping 44-40; Coleman Agency 41-44; Team Turkey 38-46; Classic 3 34-50; Trouble 33-51; Trouble 33-51; Ghost Team 8-67. High Games and Series - P. Ramey 186; S. McKee 213-574; C. Hayward 171; S. Faught 158; D. Hunt 193; L. Wiltshire 171405; T. Daniels 208-517; A. Trumble 65-423; L. Trumble 152; L. Scurlock 188. Tuesday Night Mixed Boyce Milk Haulers 56-28; Hurless Machine Shop 50.5-33.5; Hometown Lumber 49.5-34.5; Barry County Red Cross 46-38; JBar Antique Tractors 34-50; Dirt Broke 1668. Men’s Good Games and Series - M. Yost 194-464; S. Hause 192-529; G. Hause 189; D. Keirsey 181; K. Beebe 170. Women’s Good Games and Series - B. Wilkins 199-557; S. Beebe 168; F. Smith 155; A. Nicholson 152-388; R. Gross 144-414. Thurs. Angels Miller Farm Repair 46.5-29.5; Rock-NBowlers 46.5-29.5; Hastings Bowl 44-32; Moore’s Apts. 43-33; Riverfront Fin. Ser. 4234; Cathy’s Cut & Curl 38-38; Varney’s Const. 36-40. High Game and Series - K. Burch 129; C. Cooper 180; C. Kuhlman 168; S. Butler 151; M. Moore 172; B. Cuddahee 192; J. Moore 146; C. Purdum 162; B. Noteboom 173; D. Curtis 201-547; W. Barker 139; C. Hurless 185; A. Castelein 203; K. Shumway 218; C. Hooper 155; C. Doornbos 193; J. Zaagman 213. Sat. Majors (Youth League) Strikers 35-17; Leones 32-20; Hastings Bowl 23.5-28.5; Whatever 23.5-28.5; Zombies 22.5-29.5; Great Balls of Fire 19.532.5. Good Games and Series Boys - M. Brown 168-411; J. Thompson 159-412; W. Arnold 223-488; C. Stout 167-428; S. Stout 147-308. Sunday Night Mixed You’re Up N Shit 43; Sandbaggers 41 1/2; Street Bowlers 41; Eastsiders 40; Straightliners 38; Rollin Olins 34; Sunday Snoozers 30 1/2. Women’s Good Games and Series - D. Gray 197-543; B. Rice 172-463; S. Vandenburg 201; A. Hubbell 182; J. Rice 177; F. Ames 167; M. Olin 158; K. Plett 129; C. Demott 125. Men’s Good Games and Series - T. Demott 169-469; E. Rice 147-431; S. Jewell 149-402; R. Snyder 179; M. Strong 159; D. Healy 134. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 26, 2012 — Page 15 Olivet takes KVA lead with second win over DK by Brett Bremer Sports Editor There were long looks up at the scoreboard and some looks that were just off into the distance as the Panthers headed for their locker room. Delton Kellogg’s varsity girls’ basketball team is now 0-2 against Olivet and 10-0 against everybody else. Olivet scored its second win of the season over the Panthers Tuesday, 49-43 in overtime at Delton Kellogg High School. The Eagles wiped out a five-point Panther lead in the final minute of regulation, and then got a clutch three-pointer from Maggie Fisk that started a 6-1 run for her team in the extra period. Fisk finished with a team-high 13 points. Olivet takes over sole possession of first place in the Kalamazoo Valley Association with a 9-1 league mark. The Panthers are now 8-2 in the KVA. “I told the girls we’ve got to learn. We’ve got to learn from it,” said Delton Kellogg head coach Mike Mohn. “If we take this loss on the chin and pout about it and don’t learn from it then it’s a waste of time. If we learn from it and take care of the ball when we need to in those crucial situations then it’s a tough loss, but it’s a loss that we can grow from.” A long three-pointer by Alea Hammond as the horn sounded to end the third quarter put Delton Kellogg in front 32-30, and the Panthers slowly stretched that lead to 40-35 through the first seven minutes of the fourth quarter. Olivet’s Taylor Hisler scored a bucket in the paint with just under a minute to play. Delton Kellogg’s Brooke Martin then missed the front end of a one-and-one at the free throw line on the other end. The Eagles answered that scoreless possession by the Panthers with a three-point bucket by Emma Peterson that tied the game at 40-40 with 37 seconds left in regulation. The Eagles then stole the ensuing inbounds pass, and Fisk laid the ball up and in for a 42-40 Olivet lead. It was then Delton that had to force the Delton Kellogg forward Adrianna Culbert collides with Olivet’s Kiley Ploehn as she goes up for two points in the second quarter Tuesday night. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Delton Kellogg center Mallory Sewell is pressured by Olivet’s Hayley Walkowski (left) and Aleena Janousek during the fourth quarter Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Lansing Catholic puts enough runs together to get by Vikes by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Lakewood’s varsity boys’ basketball team is 2-3 in the Capital Area Activities Conference White Division after a 62-38 loss to visiting Lansing Catholic Friday. The Cougars ran out to an 18-6 lead in the opening quarter as Stevie Repichowski scored 11 of his game-high 27 points in the period. He hit three threes in the first quarter and finished the night with five. He was also 4-of-4 at the free throw line. Jacob Bullock chipped in 12 points for Lansing Catholic, going 7-of-8 at the free throw line, and Rush Cooper finished with 11 points. “We lacked ball pressure outside and gave up too many dribble penetration opportunities,” said Lakewood head coach Mark Farrell. “We played well in spurts, but gave up too many scoring runs to them.” Repichowski wasn’t the only one knocking down threes. The Vikings hit seven themselves. Jacob Buehler hit three in the fourth quarter to lead the Vikings with nine points. David Parks and Jordan Cooper both hit two, and finished with eight points each. Parks also had a team-high seven rebounds, while Spencer Palmer pulled down seven. “When we moved the ball inside and out we created and had some good shot opportunities,” said Farrell. The Vikings are 2-9 overall after a 78-44 non-conference loss against visiting Olivet Tuesday. “We were so flat tonight from the start that we never got comfortable on the floor,” Farrell said. The Panthers built a 20-4 lead in the opening quarter. Ryan Anderson had ten of his team-leading 17 points in the opening quarter. He hit three threes, including two in the first quarter. DeWitt also got 14 points from Austin Rusnell, 13 from Nick Igcobellis and 12 from Josh Borta. Lakewood was led by Michael Carr’s 14 points and seven rebounds. Cooper added eight points, Jacob Buehler seven and Dylan Durkee and Parks had five each. The Vikings will just try to forget it. “Their pressure caused us to play at a tempo we didn’t adjust to. This is a game you let go of and look forward to the next,” Farrell said. Lakewood returns to action at home against Williamston Friday. TK wrestlers win their first four O-K Gold competitions The Trojans have saved the best for last. Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity wrestling team improved to 4-0 in the O-K Gold Conference with victories over Forest Hills Eastern and Ottawa Hills in Middleville Wednesday. The Trojans were scheduled to close out the season of league duals with matches against its top two competitors in the conference. They were home against Hastings last night, and will head to Caledonia High School to take on the Fighting Scots Feb. 1. The Trojans topped Forest Hills Eastern 60-18 and Ottawa Hills 72-6. TK didn’t have a wrestler at 145 pounds, but the Hawks and Bengals had far more holes in their line-ups than that. TK took four forfeit victories in the win over the Hawks and twice that many in the win over the Bengals. On the mat, TK got pins from Kaleb Leonard (285 pounds), Ronaldo Zambrano (112), Nick Flynn (125), Paul Haney (130), Austin Sensiba (135), Nate Iveson (140) and Dan Dykstra (171) in the match with Forest Hills Eastern. TK forfeited the 145-pound weight class as well as the 119-pound weight class, to the Hawks’ star Tim Lambert. TK won every match from 103 pounds to 140 by forfeit in the dual with Ottawa Hills, and gave up the 145-pound bout. In the remaining matches TK got pins from Cole Gahan (152), Cody Ybema (160), Austin Koehl (215) and Adrian Foster (285) as well as a 13-5 major decision from Pete Westra at 189 pounds. overtime period, with Andrea Polley driving to the hoop and dishing the ball across the lane to teammate Adrianna Culbert. Culbert’s basket with eight seconds remaining in regulation tied the game at 42-42. “We came down and ran the play at the end exactly like we needed to,” said Mohn. “Dri knocks down that one to tie it and put it into OT. That’s the kind of basketball team we should be, not the kind that’s throwing it all over the gym when they put pressure on us.” Culbert led Delton with 15 points on the night. Mallory Sewell finished with 11 points, while Brooke Martin had eight and Polley six. Fisk’s three with 2:03 left in the overtime period put the Panthers in a hole. Neither team got another field goal. The Eagles were 4-of-4 at the free throw line the rest of the way. Delton hit its first nine free throws of the second half, then was just 1-of-5 in the final minute of regulation and overtime. It might not have been such a pressure packed finish if things had been different at the start. Olivet raced out to a 14-4 lead in the opening quarter. The Panthers did respond in the second quarter, with a 10-0 run to start the Delton Kellogg guard Brooke Martin (right) flies by a Pennfield defender on her way to the basket during the fourth quarter Friday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) quarter that tied the game at 14-14. The Eagles went into the half up 16-14. “You can’t come out slow, for starters. We’ve been dealing with that all year long,” Mohn said. “We’re slow starters and you can’t be if you’re going to be a championship caliber team. You’ve got to play all four quarters. We fought ourselves back into it, which was a plus, which is something that’s good.” Behind Fisk for Olivet, Hayley Walkowski and Taylor Hisler had ten points each, and Petersen and Allison Kirk both finished with six. Delton Kellogg’s girls will be at Maple Valley Friday night. The Panthers scored their tenth win of the season Friday, winning 59-40 at Pennfield. After a slow start, which saw Pennfield leading 21-20 at the half, the Delton girls outscored the green and gold Panthers 39-19 in the second half. The 23 points Delton scored in the fourth quarter are the most they’ve scored in any quarter this season. Culbert and Polley led the way for Delton. Culbert pumped in 23 points, to go along with 12 rebounds and four steals. “They’ve kind of been concentrating on her the last few,” said Mohn. “She really got after it this game and was active like the Dri that we know.” Polley had ten points, six rebounds and six assists. “When this girl plays under control, not 100 miles per hour, but 55 miles an hour. When she plays 55 or 60, she’s just an unbelievable basketball player,” Mohn said. “She just plays within herself and does some really great things and it just showed. She had a stretch when we really blew it open there in the fourth quarter when she came down on the defensive end and stole it, got a loose ball and took it the length of the floor, and made unbelievable passes - four in a row for lay-ups.” Hastings boys win at Wayland by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Hastings’ varsity boys’ basketball team got its first victory in the O-K Gold Conference since Dec. 16 by knocking off the Wildcats in Wayland 49-45 Tuesday. The Saxons built their lead with defense, limiting the Wildcats to just two points in the second quarter. They went into the half-time break with a 26-13 lead, and still led 31-23 heading into the fourth quarter when the Wildcats made a little run. “Our defense was phenomenal,” said Saxon head coach Don Schils. “It was good as it has been with this group. This group, I’ve said all along, is a pretty good defensive team and they’re starting to become a very good defensive team.” The Saxons wanted to take away Wayland’s three-point shot opportunities, and did a great job of that in the first half. Wayland was just 1of-7 from behind the three-point line in the first two quarters. The Wildcats did manage to hit five threes in the second half though. With the Wildcats being forced to look for other options offensively, the Saxon trio of Eric Hart, Michael Eastman and Travis Sixberry did a fine job of limiting Wayland when it did get the ball inside and did a good job of rebounding the basketball as well. Hastings has been working on staying focused for four quarters. When the offense started to sputter a bit in the second half, the defensive focus waned a little. The Wildcats cut the Saxon lead, which was as many as 18 points in the third quarter, down to as few as three points in the fourth. Keith Garber only had one basket in the fourth quarter for Hastings, but it was a big one, that pushed the Saxon lead up to six points at the moment. Maxwell Clark soon followed with a three-pointer, then helped the Saxons seal the deal by going 6-for-6 at the free throw line down the stretch. Clark led the Saxons with 18 points on the night, and also had five rebounds and three steals. Garber finished with 11 points and four steals. Danny Buehler added ten points for Hastings. Wayland got eight points each from Dilon Aten and Zach Hindenach in the loss. “Any time you can win in our league, on the road, we were very happy,” said Schils. “I think our players are now starting to understand the effort and focus it takes to win in our league. I’m excited. We can still get a lot better offensively, and we will.” The Saxons get their next chance Friday when they travel to Forest Hills Eastern. Tuesday, Hastings hosts Caledonia. Local students are finalists in 2011-12 Scholar-Athlete Awards The 120 finalists for the Michigan High School Athletic Association’s Scholar-Athlete Award for the 2011-12 school year have been announced, and the list includes students from Delton Kellogg, Hastings and Thornapple Kellogg high schools. Every MHSAA member high school could submit as many applications as there are scholarships available in its classification and could have more than one finalist. Delton Kellogg was among 20 schools having two finalists. Ryan Hook and Ryan Watson of DKHS are among the 12 named to the Boys Class C list. Among the 16 students qualifying for the Boys Class B list are Nathaniel Iveson of Thornapple Kellogg and Joseph Longstreet of Hastings High School. To be eligible for the award, students must have a cumulative grade point average of 3.50 and previously have won a varsity letter in at least one sport in which the MHSAA sponsors a postseason tournament. Students also were asked to respond to a series of short essay questions, submit two letters of recommendation and submit a 500-word essay on the importance of sportsmanship in educational athletics. The 120 finalists will now be considered for 32 scholarships. The program, which has been recognizing student athletes since the 1989-90 school year, will honor 32 individuals from MHSAA member schools who participate in at least one qualifying sport. Farm Bureau Insurance underwrites the Scholar-Athlete Award and will present a $1,000 scholarship to each of the qualifying recipients. Scholarships will be presented proportionately by school classification, with 12 scholarships to be awarded to Class A student athletes, six female and six male; eight scholarships will be awarded to Class B student athletes, four female and four male; six scholarships will be awarded to Class C student athletes, three female and three male; and four scholarships will be awarded to Class D student athletes, two female and two male. In addition, there also will be two at-large honorees which also are part of the general judging process, may come from any classification, and are designated by their school at the time of entry. Multiple-sport participation remains the norm among applicants. The average sport participation rate of the finalists is 2.58, while the average of the application pool was 2.13. Among the 120 finalists are 66 three-plus sport participants in the finalist field, and all but three of the 28 sports in which the MHSAA sponsors postseason tournaments are represented. This year, 1,636 applications were received. All will be presented with certificates commemorating their achievement. Additional ScholarAthlete information, including a complete list of scholarship nominees, can be found on the MHSAA website www.mhsaa.com/Schools/Students/MHSAASc holarAthleteAwardApplicants.aspx. The applications were judged by a 62member committee of school coaches, counselors, faculty members, administrators and board members from MHSAA member schools. Selection of the 32 scholarship recipients will take place in early February. Class C and D scholarship recipients will be announced Feb. 7; Class B scholarship recipients will be announced Feb. 14, and Class A scholarship recipients will be announced Feb. 21. All announcements will be made on the MHSAA website. To honor the 32 Scholar-Athlete Award recipients, a ceremony will take place during halftime of the Class C Boys Basketball Final, March 24 at the Breslin Student Events Center in East Lansing. Since the beginning of the program, 544 scholarships have been awarded. �Page 16 — Thursday, January 26, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Maple Valley’s boys play with confidence in loss by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Lions suffered a couple off losses to a couple of the best varsity boys’ basketball teams in the Kalamazoo Valley Association last week, but head coach Chris Ewing was sure that his team took a big step forward. Schoolcraft, ranked second in the state in Class C, scored a 71-38 win over the Lions at Maple Valley High School Wednesday. Ewing though said his team gained a lot of confidence in the loss, and carried that into Friday’s contest at home with rival Olivet. The Eagles put together a 22-7 run in the second quarter, but the two teams were even in the other three periods as Olivet scored a 77-62 victory. “Olivet couldn’t keep up with our speed. We broke the press without a problem. It helped playing Schoolcraft first, because they’re basically the same team,” said Ewing. It helped that the Lions’ three-point shots started falling too. The Lions were 8-of-17 from behind the three-point line in the loss to the Eagles. Garrett Miller knocked down six of those himself and led the Lions with 25 points. Maple Valley also got 11 points, six rebounds, five steals and six assists from Garrett Reid and 11 points and six rebounds from Garret Mater. The two teams were tied 15-15 at the end of one quarter, but the Eagles held the Lions to just three field goals in the second quarter to go into the half up 37-22. Both teams scored 40 points in the second half, with Miller hitting three threes and scoring 14 points in the third quarter alone. He added two more threes and eight total points in the fourth. “It was just confidence that they could Maple Valley’s Anthony Mahler flips up a shot in the lane during the second half of his team’s loss to Schoolcraft Wednesday evening. (Photo by Perry Hardin) actually shoot the ball,” Ewing said of the three-point barrage. “It was one of the things I’ve been preaching to them since the Galesburg game (Jan. 10). Confidence is one of the biggest and scariest things any team can have.” The Lions were confident with the basketball too, only turning it over nine times. Zach Flemming led the Eagles to the win, finishing with 19 points. Grant Zaremba added 13 points, Tanner McCarn 12, and Clinton Harris and Damien Loveless had ten each for the Eagles. Ewing said he was very happy with the defensive effort by Tyler Hickey, who battled with the Eagles’ big center Harris in the post all evening long. Harris had just two points in the second half. The Lions didn’t hang with the Schoolcraft Eagles quite as well. Schoolcraft jumped out to a 36-11 lead in the first half Wednesday. Luke Ryskamp led Schoolcraft with 16 points, scoring nine in the fourth quarter to help his team seal the win. Schoolcraft also got ten points from Cam Schwartz, 12 from Bryan Jones and nine from Mitch Watson. Reid led the Lions with 11 points, while Mater chipped in six and Austin Tobias five. The Lions are now 1-8 overall this season, and 0-8 in the KVA. They fell again in league action Tuesday at home against Hackett Catholic Central, 7055. The Irish pulled out to a 34-23 half-time lead thanks to a 19-8 run in the second quarter. The two teams were fairly even for the rest of the evening. Miller knocked down three threes and finished with 16 points for the Lions. Mater led Maple Valley with 19 points and eight rebounds. The Lions also got seven points from Austin Gonser and six from Reid. Ted Rider had 16 points to lead the Irish, while Bryan Bradley chipped in 12 and Jason Neuhouser ten. The Lions return to action at home against Delton Kellogg Friday, then will be home Tuesday against Constantine. The Lions’ Garrett Reid fights to get a shot up over Schoolcraft’s Parker Leighton during Wednesday’s KVA contest at Maple Valley High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) HHS cheer has Thornapple Kellogg’s girls its best day ever win another league jamboree Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity competitive cheer team cleaned up its round two performance a bit and added a third O-K Gold Conference victory Wednesday at Wayland Union High School. The Trojan varsity competitive cheer team won for the third time in three jamborees, finishing with a final score of 716.1338. Team team’s round two performance, which earned a score of 214.6338, was nearly 16 points bet- ter than it had been at the previous league jamboree. TK added a 215.6 in round one and a 285.9 in round three. The first two round scores were the best of the day, while Wayland had the top round three-performance with a score of 286.1. Hastings finished second in the overall standings with a a score of 693.8098, followed by Wayland 693.4834, Catholic Central 672.5590 and Caledonia 652.4960. Hastings scored a 210.0 in round one, a 204.1098 in round two and a 279.7 in round three. Caledonia was fifth in all three rounds, scoring a 199.7 in round one, a 188.4960 in round two and a 264.3 in round three. The TK Invitational, which was planned for Monday, was postponed until Feb. 13. Two teams of Eagles top the Lions The Hastings varsity competitive cheer team’s motto for the season is “Hard Work Beats Talent Every Time.” The Saxons’ hard work paid off Saturday as they set a new school-record for high total score with a 751.6982 in winning the 9th Annual Lakewood Viking CheerFest Saturday. Hastings and Lakewood both took titles at Saturday’s 9th Annual Lakewood Viking CheerFest. The Saxons took the Division 1-2 championship with a score of 751.6982, which is a new record high for the Hastings program. The Lakewood varsity competitive cheer team won the Division 3 title with a score of 730.0916, which was the third best score among the 12 varsity teams that competed. The second best score went to the Division 4 champions from Pewamo-Westphalia who scored a 744.2012. Hastings scored a 225.0 in round one, then added the highest scores of the day in the final two rounds. The Saxons tallied a 209.8982 in round two and a 316.8 in round three. Mason was second in the Division 1-2 standings, outscoring the Saxons with a 226.6 in round one, but then falling behind with scores of 195.0676 in round two and 288.7 in round three for a final total of 710.3676. Grand Ledge was third in the Division 12 standings with a score of 650.4920, followed by Plainwell 637.8206 and Lowell There’s a reason Olivet is atop the Kalamazoo Valley Association standings. The Eagles’ varsity girls’ basketball team improved to 8-1 in the league with a 58-22 win over host Maple Valley Friday, and have since improved to 9-1 with a win at Delton Kellogg Tuesday. 592.9312. Lakewood beat runner-up Ovid-Elsie by nearly 65 points in the Division 3 competition, scoring a 221.5 in round one, a 204.0196 in round two and a 305.0 in round three. Those were the Vikings’ highest scores of the season in each round. “We made some personnel changes to our rounds one and three this week and then dealt with the flu bug going around,” said Lakewood head coach Kim Martin. “The girls really stepped up this weekend and did a great job with everything they faced this week. I was very proud of them.” Ovid-Elsie finished with a score of 665.7328 in Division 3, ahead of Williamston 584.2814 and Belding 576.6400. Behind P-W in the Division 4 competition, Maple Valley scored a 525.6800 and Bath a 503.0234. Maple Valley scored a 162.9 in round one, a 145.1800 in round two and a 217.6 in round three. A total of 28 teams competed at the daylong tournament, in middle school, junior varsity and varsity competitions. Wayland hits more than half its shots in win at Hastings Maple Valley forward Kaitlyn Petersen fires up a shot in the lane Wednesday against Schoolcraft. (Photo by Perry Hardin) by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Hastings’ varsity girls’ basketball team fell to 1-10 overall with a 61-21 loss to visiting Wayland Tuesday in O-K Gold Conference action. The Wildcats built a 16-3 lead in the opening quarter, and pushed their lead to 36-11 at the half. Wayland had 21 defensive rebounds to the Saxons ten. That was in part because of the Wildcats’ size advantage, and because of their shooting ability on the other end. “This is a difficult match-up for us,” said Hastings head coach Steve Laubaugh. “They have such size, and we aren’t a very good rebounding team anyway. They shot really well - but they pass so well to their interior players that they are always taking great The Maple Valley Lions are now 1-8 in the league. Olivet outscored the Lions 38-8 in the first half. “Too many turnovers in the first half,” said Lion head coach Landon Wilkes. “That’s what it came down to.” “They contributed to that, but we didn’t help our own cause so to say.” “We turned the ball over a lot on our own, dribbling too deep into pressure and not making straight line attacks to the basket.” The Eagles didn’t have any trouble attacking the basket. They shot 27 free throws to the Lions 13 in the game. Olivet spread out its scoring, with seven girls with at least five points. Taylor Hisler led the Eagles with nine points. Emily Wilson shots.” The Wildcats shot 51 percent from the floor. Wayland got 18 points from Molly Lameyer and 14 from Jenna Jamieson. Hastings got five points from Taylor Carter and four from Dani Meredith. Laubaugh also said that his team got solid minutes from Katie Coenen on the defensive end of the floor. “We're focused on competing and getting better,” Laubaugh said. “This Friday we play a team that we can focus on winning as well, so we’ll take some lessons and apply those later this week.” The Saxons visit Forest Hills Eastern Friday, then Tuesday they’ll be on the road at Caledonia. and Hayley Walkowski had eight each while Maggie Fisk chipped in seven points. Mikaela Bromley led the Lions with 14 points. Timara Burd added five points. “The girls know what it takes to win ball games. We just have to learn to put it on the floor,” said Wilkes. “I’ll never question their effort, but we’ve got to get better at taking the things we do at practice and putting them into games.” Things did go a little better Wednesday in a 51-37 loss to visiting Schoolcraft. The Lions just struggled to knock down jump shots in the second half as Schoolcraft pulled away. Schoolcraft led just 28-20 at the half. Schoolcraft’s Cody Herr nearly matched the Lions herself, pouring in 32 points. “She’s their two guard. She attacked the basket well and got to the line 15 times,” said Wilkes. “We got to the line four times.” Kara Craig added seven points for the Eagles. Maple Valley got 13 points from Bromley and six apiece from Zoanne Siple and Burd. Hackett Catholic Central topped Maple Valley in KVA action Tuesday, 68-47. The Irish ran out to a 21-8 lead, then later tacked another ten points onto their advantage with a 16-6 run in the third quarter. Hackett had three girls in double figures, with Samantha Emery leading the way with 18 points. She knocked down a pair of threes in the contest, as did teammate Maggie Wenzel who finished with 17 points. Andrea Leeuw added 13 points for the Irish. Maple Valley got 17 points from Bromley and ten from Kaitlyn Petersen. Alicia Ramsey chipped in seven points. The Lions will be at home Friday against Delton Kellogg, then Tuesday return to action against the only team in the KVA they’ve beaten this season - at Constantine. The Lions are currently 2-9 overall. Maple Valley guard Timara Burd has her shot altered in the lane by Schoolcraft’s Cassandra Welch Wednesday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 26, 2012 — Page 17 Hamilton girls rally in fourth, win in OT at TKHS by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Hamilton sophomore Ashley Overbeek scored the last two of her game-high 20 points with 1 minute and 6 seconds left in overtime, and those proved to be the final two points as the visiting Hawkeyes scored a 50-49 win over Thornapple Kellogg Friday. She had eight points and a handful of assists in the fourth quarter and overtime to lead Hamilton to the non-conference victory in a game that the Trojans led by seven points with just over a minute to play. Hamilton closed regulation on a 6-0 run, turning a 45-39 TK lead into a 45-45 tie. Overbeek dished an assist to teammate Rachael Tolsma with half a minute left to pull her team within two, then tied the contest by attacking the basket for two points with just over ten seconds left. Tolsma took advantage of Overbeek’s penetration and finished with 13 points, including nine in the fourth quarter and overtime. “That’s why I had to come up with something different for them in this game,” said TK head coach Jesse Bays. “We played a lot of junk defenses on them in this game. “We did a diamond-and-one where we always wanted to make sure that we kept somebody with (Overbeek). We did a triangle-and-two. We inverted our triangle. We did just about everything possible. And not only that, we didn’t have practice yesterday and it looked pretty darn good for me putting it in 45 minutes before game time.” Overbeek probably shouldn’t have had a chance to lead her team past TK. TK led 2317 at the half, and had its lead up to as many as nine points in the third quarter and eight in the fourth. The Trojan offense sputtered in fourth quarter, as the team tried to spread the floor and work the clock a little. “We’re just hurrying. Not getting to our right spots. When you’re in a game you’re not supposed to be in sometimes you just lose it,” Bays said. “I think a couple of times when we tried to spread them out, our guards weren’t Thornapple Kellogg guard Kelli Graham rises above Hamilton’s Kate Kooiker for two points in overtime Friday in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) understanding that you can’t be by each other. We were trying to spread them out when the opportunities were there, but we were just too close to each other.” When the Trojan offense was clicking in the game they were getting the ball inside to Shelby Tedrow and Sydney Krol. Tedrow got in some foul trouble and finished with seven points. Krol stepped up big with her on the bench, finishing with eight points. TK was led by Crystal Smith’s 11-point performance and the Trojans also got nine points from Kelli Graham. “I think I saw something in my two sophomores as well, and the heart of the rest of the team,” said Bays. “We’ve got some fight left in us. I’m glad to see that. Syd Krol and Kelli Graham, they played a heck of a game. The seniors played a heck of a game. Tedrow was in foul trouble. That hurts too, when you get her out.” Overall, he was pleased with the effort. “That’s why I love these girls,” said Bays. “They’re not going to quite fighting. We’ve got nine games left in the regular season, getting ready for districts. If this is how we play in the district I’m looking forward to it.” The Trojans are now 3-9 overall this season. They bounced back from the tough loss by improving to 2-4 in the O-K Gold Conference with a 51-44 victory at Ottawa Hills Tuesday. Graham poured in 22 points as the Trojans pushed past the Bengals in the second half. She was 11-of-14 from the free throw line on the night. TK also got 12 points from Tedrow, six from Smith and five from Lauren Bailey. Cachareal Hodges led the Bengals with 20 points and Aliyah Willis chipped in eight. Thornapple Kellogg’s Crystal Smith looks for some space in a crowd of Hamilton defenders during the third quarter Friday in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The Trojans visit South Christian Friday, then will be home against league leading Grand Rapids Catholic Central Tuesday. Vikings 10 points Maple Valley wrestlers split better than Hornets another pair of league duals Lakewood’s varsity wrestling team improved to 3-0 in the Capital Area Activities Conference White Division with a 40-30 victory over visiting Williamston Wednesday evening. The Vikings were scheduled to close out the conference duals at home against Perry last night. The Vikings improved to 16-3 overall in duals this season with the win over the Hornets. “We wrestled fairly well,” said Lakewood head coach Bob Veitch after his team’s victory over the Hornets. “We are getting better and things are coming together. We’re moving people around to keep going.” Both teams had four pins in the match. Lakewood got six points each from Austin Gostnell at 103 pounds, Austin Kietzman at 119, Dylan Shoup at 125, and Jordan Bennett at 140. Those pins didn’t come easy. It took Gostnell more than two and a half periods to stick Brett Monk in the 103-pound bout. Kietzman, Bennett and Tromp all earned their pins in the second period of their matches. The Vikings added a 14-5 major decision by Lars Pyrzinski over TJ Davis in the 215pound match, a 9-8 win by Nick Briggs over Ryan Duncan at 145, and a 2-1 win by Markus Temple over Jake Brandon at 171 pounds. Lakewood also got a forfeit victory from David Bibbler in the 135-pound match. Williamston got a couple of big wins in the 189- and 285-pound matches, where Devin Smyth and Mitch Maki earned pins. Spencer Demand and Mitch Dimond had the other pins for the Hornets in the dual. The Vikings will host their own tournament at Lakewood High School Saturday. Maple Valley’s varsity wrestling team is 2-2 in the Kalamazoo Valley Association after splitting league duals with Pennfield and Schoolcraft at Schoolcraft High School Wednesday. The Lions knocked off the Panthers 4236, but fell to the host Eagles 52-23. Austin Davis at 112 pounds, Andrew Zank at 140, Cash Flower at 152 and Alex Reid at 215 each won two matches for the Maple Valley team on the evening. “Overall we wrestled quite well,” said Lion coach Tony Wawiernia. “We are starting to put together things that we have been working on in practice, and applying them on the mat without thinking so much about them.” The Lions got four pins in the win over Pennfield. Jake Milbauer stuck Nathan Antes 2 minutes and 31 seconds into their 130-pound match. Zank pinned Joseph Antes in 1:27 at 140 pounds. Darius France put Tyler Lahusky on his back 1:34 in to the 171-pound bout. At 215 pounds, Reid pinned Konner Damerow in 49 seconds. Davis and Mathew Reid both won by forfeit for the Lions, while Flower took a 12-4 major decision over Austin Clements at 152 pounds and Travis Franks beat Pennfield’s Justin Parker 6-4 at 189 pounds. Davis, Zank, Flower and Alex Reid had four of the five wins for the Lions in the dual with Schoolcraft. The fifth was a 10-1 major decision by Zack Pixley over Tyler Bush at 145 pounds. The Lions followed that up with a sixthplace finish at the 20-team Bellevue Tournament. Flower took the 152-pound championship at the event with a 4-0 day. He topped Constantine’s Ben Mallo 5-3 in the championship match. Flower was one of seven Lion wrestlers to finish in the top eight in their weight class. Davis had a runner-up finish at 112 pounds, pinning Bath’s Bonnie Baker and Concord’s Jacob Hall in his first two matches. Alex Reid, at 215 pounds, won four matches and placed third. He also beat a Constantine wrestler in his final match, topping Seth Stears 7-1 in the consolation final. Kodee Crouch was sixth at 103 pounds. Pixley (140) and Franks (189) were both seventh. Sam Bonney was eighth at 119 pounds. TK boys win another contest outside of the Gold Thornapple Kellogg center Caden Francisco rises above Hamilton’s Elijah Walker for two points during the first half Friday night. (Photo by Brett Bremer) teams outside our conference that are tough. No disrespect to Hamilton or to Kelloggsville, but neither one of them are the kind of competition we’ll see in our league,” said TK head coach Mike Rynearson. “That’s just the Trojan guard Greg Hamilton pulls up in the lane to fire a shot over Hamilton’s Elijah Walker Friday night at TKHS. (Photo by Brett Bremer) way it is. These are the ones you’ve got to win. These are the ones you’ve got to get. Next week you’ve got Ottawa (Hills) on Tuesday and South (Christian) on Friday. That’s about as tough as you can get right there.” TK showed that it’s a team that’s becoming tougher to beat on Friday night, topping the visiting Hawkeyes 68-54. TK’s lead hit double digits for the first time midway through the second quarter and seven points was as close as the Hawkeyes ever got in the second half. Senior guard Greg Hamilton led TK with 26 points, and senior center Caden Francisco finished with 16. “We got the ball up the floor. Greg did a nice job of passing ahead and getting it to the wings so we could get into things,” Rynearson said. “I think the big factor is that we’ve started to get Caden Francisco the ball a little bit and started dumping it down into him.” That’s something the Trojans have been focusing on recently. “Anybody that knows anything about the game of basketball knows that when you start getting some presence down low that will start taking some of the pressure off the guards up on top. Early in the season we weren’t even getting him touches.” Rynearson said the improvement in that aspect of the game has been a combination of work by the guards and by Francisco himself. “(Francisco) needs to work harder, and he’s doing a good job of sealing his guy and the guards are doing a nice job of swinging the basketball and getting him in position to pin down. It’s a combination, and he and the guards are working well together right now.” A few big shots by Chris Scholten kept Hamilton in the game early. He finished with a team-high 16 points. “We talked about him. He’s just a pure shooter. He shoots it from up over the top of his head. If you give him a step, he’ll shoot it anyway. He kept them in the game a couple of times.” TK ran out to an 8-2 lead in the first four and a half minutes of the game, but back-toback threes by Scholten tied things up and Hamilton led 12-10 at the end of the first quarter. The Trojans though went on a 9-2 run to start the second quarter, taking the lead back, and they never trailed again. Scholten though only hit two more threes the rest of the night. Hamilton also got ten points from Nick Kronemeyer and nine from Ethan Buresh. Behind the top two for TK, Grant Allison and Zac Comeau had six points each. The O-K Gold did prove tougher Tuesday, as the Trojans fell to visiting Ottawa Hills 660-43. The Bengals outscored the Trojans 37-18 in the second half, including a 21-9 fourth-quarter run. Dewayne Gordon led Ottawa Hills with 18 points. The Bengals also got 12 points from Daryl White and ten from Shakur Sanders. DJ Nolff had 12 points for TK, and Francisco chipped in ten points and seven rebounds. Brendon Hudson had eight points and Hamilton seven. The Trojans visit South Christian Friday, then will be at home against Grand Rapids Catholic Central Tuesday. They are now 8-4 overall, and 3-3 in the O-K Gold. SAXON WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE Complete online schedule at: www.hassk12.org THURSDAY, JANUARY 26 4:30 PM 4:30 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM Boys Girls Boys Boys Boys Girls Fresh. Fresh. Varsity Varsity JV JV Basketball Basketball Swimming Swimming Basketball Basketball Forest Hills Eastern HS Forest Hills Eastern HS Grand Rapids Union Grand Rapids Union Forest Hills Eastern HS Forest Hills Eastern HS WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1 A H H H A H FRIDAY, JANUARY 27 6:00 PM Girls Varsity Basketball Forest Hills Eastern HS A 6:30 PM Boys Varsity Ice Hockey Jenison HS A 7:30 PM Boys Varsity Basketball Forest Hills Eastern HS A SATURDAY, JANUARY 28 9:00 AM 9:00 AM 9:00 AM 9:00 AM Boys Boys Girls Girls Varsity B Team Varsity JV Wrestling Wrestling Cheer Cheer Jenison C.J. Crowe Invit. Rockford “B” Invit. Otsego Invite Otsego Invite A A A A Boys Girls Boys Girls Boys Girls Fresh. Fresh. JV JV Varsity Varsity Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Caledonia HS Caledonia HS Caledonia HS Caledonia HS Caledonia HS Caledonia HS Boys Girls Girls Girls Boys Boys Boys B Team Varsity Varsity JV JV Varsity Varsity Wrestling Basketball Cheer Cheer Wrestling Wrestling Ice Hockey Godwin Quad Lakewood HS OK Gold Jam @ MTK OK Gold Jam @ MTK FHE OH @ FHE Tri @ FHE Grand Rapids Christian A A A A A A H THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2 4:30 PM 4:30 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM Boys Girls Boys Boys Boys Girls Fresh. Fresh. Varsity Varsity JV JV Basketball Basketball Swimming Swimming Basketball Basketball GR Catholic Central GR Catholic Central Grand Rapids Creston Grand Rapids Creston GR Catholic Central GR Catholic Central A H A A A H Times and dates subject to change Thanks to This Week’s Sponsor: TUESDAY, JANUARY 31 4:00 PM 4:00 PM 5:30 PM 5:30 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM TBA 5:00 PM 5:30 PM 5:30 PM 6:00 PM 6:30 PM 7:45 PM H A H A H A HASTINGS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS Contact Nancy 945-2742 or hastingsathleticboosters@gmail.com to sponsor the schedule Good Luck Saxons! 77565277 by Brett Bremer Sports Editor After tough back-to-back O-K Gold Conference losses, the Trojans first back-toback losses of the season, Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity boys’ basketball team didn’t mind stepping outside the conference last week. Thornapple Kellogg scored its seventh and eighth wins of the season by knocking off Kelloggsville in Wyoming last week Tuesday and then topping Hamilton in Middleville Friday. “Our conference is so tough. There are �Page 18 — Thursday, January 26, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Pennock health center celebrates grand re-opening Since opening in 1989, Pennock Health and Wellness Center has been working to inspire and motivate Barry County residents to change their poor behaviors into healthy ones. In 2011, the center welcomed 85,000 visits or check-ins and had over 1,450 members. Tuesday the center held a grand re-opening to celebrate completion of renovations to the facility on West Green Street, Hastings. Health and Wellness Specialty Programming Coordinator Jenna VanEck (right) hands out information on membership. Pennock Health and Wellness member Alvina Griswold enjoys some snacks at the grand re-opening. Griswold received a membership as a gift from her daughter and enjoys the pool. The state-of-the-art 10,000-squarefoot facility has recently been renovated with new carpeting, wall coverings and paint. The pool, locker rooms and showers also have been renovated. Walking away the calories on a treadmill is a favorite activity at the Pennock Health and Wellness Center. Swimmers enjoy the free-swim period at Pennock’s Health and Wellness Center. The area around the three-lane, 25-yard lap pool has been completely resurfaced and sealed. ~ Tenth Annual ~ BARRY HOME SHOW Friday, January 27 • 10am to 8 pm Saturday, January 28 • 10 am to 8 pm A member enjoys a PowerLift class at Pennock Health and Wellness Center. (Photo courtesy of Pennock Health Services) BARRY EXPO CENTER 1350 N. M-37 Hwy., Hastings Promoted by draperies & fine furniture For information Call (269) 945-4177 A PowerLift class at Pennock Health and Wellness Center gets members moving. (Photo courtesy of Pennock Health Services) Sponsored by Hastings City Bank FREE 20 ITEM Cabinets Plus Murray’s Asphalt Sun Space of West Michigan Amish Oak Warehouse Girschle’s Flag Poles Vanloozenoord Construction & Remodeling Rendi-Custom Photo Frames & Signs Just Jewelry by Diane Warner Kitchen Tune UP Rebath/Darrell Burke Construction Radio Shack/Verizon of Hastings At Home Real Estate Hobes Flooring Home Town Lumber First Bank West Michigan Kevin’s Draperies & Fine Furniture Honey Doo Construction Snyder Monuments Everdry Waterproofing Paint Bob.com Terry & Dan McKinney Poured Walls Jiles Concrete Pumping BAR-B-Q BUFFET WITH ADMISSION $5 ADULTS/$10 ENTIRE FAMILY ALL STUDENTS FREE Two Brothers & A Tent New Horizon Heating & Cooling Hastings City Bank Thornapple Real Estate Affordable Metal Roofing Energy Smart Remodeling Bleam Eavestroughing Ever After Banquet Hall Carpenter Plumbing Monavie & Snyderzeeff Team Masonry Repair Service Kings Electronics & Appliances Schondelmayer Skull Works Chemical Bank J & M Distributing Fillmore Equipment South East Heating & Cooling Rustic Touch Landscaping Infinity Home Improvement Bath Fitter Message Express Internet Woods & Homes Diamond Propane Interior Woodworking & Design Carl’s Soft Water An’D Signs Fifelski Construction Granite Transformations J & B Landscaping & Lawn Care Michigan Gutter Cap Lake Trust Credit Union Kitchens By Katie Midwest Fire Safety IV ADT Security Services All Weather Seal Next Coatings Feighner Boat Lifts & Docks Burkey Glass Jim Dull Excavating & Contracting Barry Eaton Health Department WBCH Am Fm C. Mally Concessions BailTek Cleaning & Restoration Miracle Ear 77565470 A variety of free weights complements more than 48 exercise machines at the Pennock Health and Wellness Center. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-02-02.pdf f507a5168e732ababae40cdf7e740ca0 PDF Text Text Leadership class urged ‘to make impact’ Forum raises issues about legislation Saxons beat Scots on buzzer-beater See Story on Page 2 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 14 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 5 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, February 2, 2012 Murder case not dismissed, despite filing issues NEWS BRIEFS Food pantry looking for volunteers; meeting planned The Love Inc. pantry continues to reap the benefits of the Fish Headz holiday benefit concert and community support. Organizers are still going through the stock of food donations generated by the concert and have very few needs at this time, said Marcia Szumowski. The number of daily visitors to the pantry continues to increase, so organizers anticipate the storage area again being empty soon. “Often times we have three or more families visiting the pantry in one day,” Szumowski said. “This means that we need more volunteers to keep the one-on-one time with our guests and get away from the production-line feel it is becoming.” Volunteers are also needed to help keep the pantry organized and shelves stocked. These volunteer positions are once a month, or more if the volunteers want. Anyone interested in learning more should attend a community volunteer information meeting Monday, Feb. 13, at 7 p.m. at Hastings First United Methodist Church on Green Street. “Join us to find out what opportunities are available,” she added. For more information, call Szumowski, 269-948-2169. Business history focus of next historical society meeting Hastings businessman Richard Groos will be the featured speaker during the Feb. 7 monthly meeting of the Barry County Historical Society. Groos will share his wealth of personal knowledge about the history of a number of the major industrial busineeses that were founded in Hastings and that were major employers and economic forces in the growth of Barry County, including the Tyden Lock and Seal Company, Viking Corporation, Hastings Manufacturing, and the E.W. Bliss Company. The meeting will begin at 7 p.m. in the community room of the Barry County Courts and Law Building at 206 W. Court St. in Hastings. Hastings seeking alumni of the year nominations The board of directors of the Hastings High School Alumni Association is accepting nominations until March 15 for the 2012 Hastings High School Distinguished Alumnus of the Year Award. The award will be presented at the annual alumni banquet, Saturday, June 2, in the high school cafeteria. Nominations must be in printed form and should contain biographical information and reasons why the individual is being nominated. Reasons may include accomplishments, vocations, honors and awards received, community service, organization memberships, personal character and other helpful information. The nominee can be residing anywhere, but must be an alumnus of Hastings High School. In addition to new nominations, the board is asking anyone who has submitted nominations in the past to resubmit again with up-to-date information for the board’s consideration. Send alumnus of the year nomination letters to Donna Brown, president, Hastings High School Alumni Association, 810 Indian Hills Drive, Hastings, MI 49058 or email donnabreown21@sbcglobal.net. by David DeDecker Staff Writer Jason Lee Keiper is due to stand trial on open murder charges for allegedly killing his step-grandfather with a hammer. Keiper’s attorney, David Gilbert, filed motions to dismiss the murder trial on the grounds the Barry County Prosecutor’s Office is filing required information late or not at all. “I introduce information concerning the prosecutor’s inability, or ability, to follow court rules ... as far as discovery is concerned,” said Gilbert in Barry County Circuit Court Jan. 31. “We are asking the case be dismissed.” Gilbert went on to detail documents which were filed late or incomplete. He told Circuit Court Judge Amy McDowell that the prosecutor’s office had not supplied the witness and evidence information required by law. Gilbert said the prosecution still has not complied with providing what evidence he plans to call for the trial. “It’s the same situation as before, your honor, in the Kohn case,” said Gilbert. Gilbert had argued motions in the James Kohn criminal sexual conduct case to strike the witness list and dismiss the case due to late filings by the prosecutor’s office. During that motion hearing in mid-January, McDowell said she found the sanctions too severe, all things considered, and denied Gilbert’s motions. Tuesday, McDowell asked Gilbert if he objected to any of the prosecution’s exhibits. “I object to any of them that I haven’t been given notice [the prosecutor] will use,” said Gilbert. “I imagine there will be an autopsy report, but since he hasn’t told me he plans on using it as an exhibit ... he hasn’t filed his intent to use the autopsy report. My client is accused of killing his grandfather with hammers. I don’t see a notice saying [the prosecutor] is planning on using hammers as evi- dence. My understanding is they took pictures. They haven’t even sent pictures.” Gilbert explained his concerns over what he sees as a continued lack of disclosure of information. In response, Prosecutor Tom Evans listed several documents and when they were filed, contesting information was given to the defense on time. He told the court the pre-trial statement, filed Jan. 13, lists hammers and an autopsy report. “You don’t wait until a week before or two or three weeks before a homicide trial to prepare for it ... this is serious. Somebody died. My client is charged with murder.” David Gilbert Defense Attorney Gilbert told the court he had not received the pre-trial statement. McDowell looked through her court file to find the statement dated Jan. 13, but proof of service was Jan. 17, which she pointed out did not comply with the law. Evans said he emailed the information to Gilbert Jan. 13, and has an electronic proof of service. “Do you always serve things by email?” McDowell asked Evans. “Unless there is an objection,” said Evans. “Is this a local practice between the prosecutor and local defense attorneys?” the judge asked. Gilbert said he would prefer to receive only police reports by email. He said if there was any miscommunication on that point, he would take responsibility. Gilbert also said he would return to office and check his email spam for the missing information. “This is intentional conduct,” said Gilbert. “It really doesn’t look like he cares about this case too much. You don’t wait until a week before or two or three weeks before a homicide trial to prepare for it ... this is serious. Somebody died. My client is charged with murder.” McDowell replied, “I do understand your frustration Mr. Gilbert. I do think it is more than negligent, but don’t think it is necessarily intentional. I think it is an oversight, which is unfortunate for you [the defense]. “But for the email issue, I would have struck the list of exhibits. Mr. Evans, I suggest you contact each attorney to see if they would like to receive things other than police reports by email, so you don’t have these problems again. “I deny the motion to strike the [witness list], strike the exhibits and to dismiss the case,” continued McDowell. “I will consider other sanctions, but that will be determined at a later date.” McDowell also said she wondered why the prosecutor’s office could not comply with the 30-day rule. “I know it is a little late on some of these cases Mr. Evans,” said McDowell. “But, I would highly suggest you get back to filing within the required time period. It looks like you’re going to be getting more of these [motions] at this point.” Keiper is scheduled for trial beginning Feb. 13 in circuit court. Hope Township Clerk to resign Banner staff was informed Wednesday, Feb. 1, of Linda Eddy-Hough’s intention to resign as Hope Township Clerk. Barry County Clerk Pam Jarvis confirmed the report, having talked with Eddy-Hough the same day. Attempts to reach Eddy-Hough or the township were made by the Banner for specifics on her resignation. The township hall phone was busy all Wednesday afternoon. A special Hope Township meeting is scheduled for Thursday night (time unconfirmed) to discuss Eddy-Hough’s resignation. Eddy-Hough most recently ran in the 2008 election, in which she was uncontested. For more information, call the Hope Township Hall, 269-948-2464. Falcon among candidates for superintendent’s post by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Hastings Area School Interim Superintendent Michelle Falcon is among the five applicants chosen by the Hastings Board of Education to interview for the Hastings Area School superintendent post in the coming weeks. Other candidates include Tim Allard, superintendent of Galien Township Schools; Todd Geerlings, assistant superintendent of Mona Shores Public Schools; Sean McNatt, superintendent of Breckinridge Community Schools; and Terry Urguhart, the principal of Forest Hills Central High School. “I feel very happy with these five candidates; I feel they are very strong,” said board president Kevin Beck. Barry Intermediate School District Superintendent Jeff Jennette, who is conducting the search on behalf Hastings Area Schools, said he received 21 applications, although one was later withdrawn, leaving a pool of 20 applicants, eight of whom had superintendent experience. Jennette noted that while trustees Jon Hart and Rob Longstreet were absent from the special board of education meeting Monday evening, they had an opportunity to review all the applications prior to the meeting and give their opinion as to which candidates should be interviewed. Beck and fellow board members Gene Haas, Donna Garrison, Patricia Endsley and Dan Patton were at the meeting Monday evening to review the applications one more time and cast their votes for which candidates to interview. Jennette said that since he is donating his time to conduct the superintendent search, Hastings Area Schools has incurred a total expense of $751, the bulk of which — $345 — was for printing of the brochure. He said superintendent searches typically cost $5,000 or more. “I think we did a good search for Hastings Area Schools,” Jennette said. The board of education will interview three of the five candidates from 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 15, and two candidates from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 16. The new superintendent would be expected to assume the post July 31. Medical marijuana hot topic in Nashville by Shari Carney Staff Writer Nashville Village Council members met a sudden and unexpected storm of resistance to a proposed medical marijuana ordinance during their regular meeting Thursday, Jan. 26. Shortly after the 7 p.m. meeting began, a parade of 19 residents, led by Tony Green, marched into the meeting and dominated the public comment portion of the agenda by voicing their opposition to the ordinance that, they said, would vastly limit their rights under the Michigan Medical Marijuana Act passed by Michigan voters in November 2008. Because of vagaries in the law, several municipalities have discussed and adopted ordinances similar to the proposed ordinance before the Nashville Village Council that would establish strict regulations for medical marijuana and related uses and activities. Green, who owns the marijuana clinic at 109 N Main St. in Nashville, announced that he had won a case in Barry County Circuit Court before Judge Amy McDowell on Jan. 16, that would put him in direct conflict — See MARIJUANA, page 5 Specialty crop coming to Hickory Corners Jeff Steinman stands in a field where he will plant 15 acres of trellised hops this summer near Hickory Corners, with more acreage to be planted over the next two years. See story on page 18. �Page 2 — Thursday, February 2, 2012 — The Hastings Banner New Leadership Barry County class Hastings Area Schools proceed with millage request encouraged to ‘make an impact’ The Hastings Area Schools Board of Education is asking voters in the district to approve a 10-year recreation millage during the school election Tuesday, May 8. The 10year 1.6-mill levy would return $799,000 to the district’s general fund in the first year, 2012-13. During a special meeting Monday evening, the board unanimously approved a motion to proceed with the millage request. Trustees Jon Hart and Rob Longstreet were absent. Interim Superintendent Michelle Falcon said that although the millage proposal is for 1.6 mills from 2012 through 2021, and is called a recreational millage, the proposal really will help preserve important school programs for the district’s students. “A recreational millage is one of only a couple of ways that Michigan school districts can get additional funds,” she said, “and the way that this millage will help our students is by covering expenses for the public’s use of our school recreational facilities that are already coming out of the school’s general fund, thus retaining those monies for instructional programs. Despite the many cuts in our budget that have been made in the past, we’re looking at even more cuts for the future because of inadequate state aid, so this millage will help us preserve programs for our students.” School officials have said that over the past decade, Hastings Area Schools has cut its budget by approximately $4 million. With the continued decline in enrollment and state aid, additional cuts are expected to continue to have a negative impact on curricular and co-curricular programs, such as art, athletics, band, choir, drama and more. Proposed program cuts for the 2012-13 school year include reduction of teaching staff; reduction of co-curricular activities, including band, choir, art, drama, vocational programs and athletics, teacher training and development; and reduction in special education staff and curriculum resources. If approved, the millage would mean $1.60 on each $1,000 of taxable value for property in the Hastings Area School system in Barry and Calhoun counties for 10 years. The levy would mean a cost of $40 annually, or $3.33 monthly, for a property with a market value of $50,000 ($25,000 taxable value) and $80 annually, or $6.66 monthly, for property with a market value of $100,000 ($50,000 taxable value), for the duration of the levy. Funds generated by the millage would be used for operating a system of recreation and playgrounds in the district. During the public comment portion of Monday’s meeting, Michelle Skedgell from the Barry County Parks and Recreation Board, asked the board of education why the district had not informed or discussed the proposed millage with the parks and recreation board, or asked for the county’s support. “Barry County Parks and Rec. Board is a coordinated effort to support recreation in county parks in Barry County,” she said. “Although it is called a recreational millage, it is not necessarily for additional facilities ... It’s for supporting what the schools already do in their efforts for community services, and it’s to offset those costs,” said Board of Education President Kevin Beck. “Really, it’s for the schools’ academic programs and its for the programs already supported by the schools ... I think that is the difficulty — getting the message out that it is not for additional programs.” While some have questioned why the district doesn’t close the Community Education and Recreation Center, the board said it supports keeping the facility open because it houses more than 60 alternative education students, it provides low-cost child care for the community, provides gymnasium and weight room facilities, is used for senior citizen and student swim classes, provides community education opportunities and is available for community rentals. Beck said the board would not be fulfilling its obligation to provide quality instructional programs for students if it didn’t explore ways to minimize budget cuts that are projected for the future. “Asking taxpayers to pay this millage is critically important for our students and the future of our community,” said Beck. Other school districts that have passed recreational millages include Forest Hills, East Grand Rapids, Northview, Rockford, Williamston, Zeeland, Bridgman and Dexter. Members of the Hastings Area Schools millage steering committee include Troy Carlson and Mark Kolanowski, co-chairs; Val Slaughter, treasurer; and Kristen Cove, data coordinator. Informational presentations on the proposed millage will begin at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 9, and Thursday, March 1, in the Hastings High School lecture hall. The Leadership Barry County Class of 2012 represents the 22nd year of inviting up-and-coming area leaders to enhance their leadership skills for individual growth, organizational improvement and increased community effectiveness. This year’s class includes (front row, from left) Emily Mater, Jodi Borowicz, Claire Johnston, Austin Wines, Molly Egelkraut, Lori Jackson, Julie Conger, Vicki Shumaker, Emily Bond, (back row) Liz Witt, Tracy Solmes, Katie Dixon, Carley Dole, Joe Chamberlain, Josh Cole, James Borton, Larry Lewis, Bob Davis and John Zink. (Photo by Fred Jacobs) Miller College to host year’s first after hours networking event The 2012 class of Leadership Barry County began its eight-session, three-month training program with a weekend retreat at Pierce Cedar Creek Institute. Following a keynote address and opening program Friday, the group visited over refreshments before a day-long seminar Saturday. (Photo by Fred Jacobs) On hand for the Feb. 9 Business After Hours event to celebrate Miller College’s collaboration with Kellogg Community College will be (from left) Valerie Byrnes, Barry County Chamber; Chad Danielson, Miller College; Tim Sleevi, KCC; and David Hatfield, Miller College instructor. The Barry County Chamber of Commerce will hold its first Business After Hours event of 2012 Thursday, Feb. 9, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at Seasonal Grille in Hastings. Battle Creek’s Miller College, which has recently expanded its service area to offer courses in Barry County at Kellogg Community College’s Fehsenfeld Center, has partnered with Seasonal Grille to host the business networking program and encourages business, community leaders and chamber members to participate. “The partnership with KCC’s Hastings campus allows Miller College to continue to serve Barry County students and further expands our ability to serve a broader base of students through higher education,” said Chad Danielson, vice president of student services. The Robert B. Miller College is a private, independent, nonprofit, degree-granting institution whose mission is to graduate students who exhibit a high level of competence in Call anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads 269-945-9554 their area of study and who demonstrate service to the community. “Miller College is excited about expanding its partnerships with KCC-Fehsenfeld and Barry County,” said Miller College President Dave Harris, “and we look forward to increasing our programs and services to provide opportunities for students residing in Barry County communities.” “Our goal is to make our students’ transition from their community college into our advanced degree program as seamless as possible and prepare them for advancement with their current employer, successfully find the employment they seek or further their education at the graduate level,” added David Fisher, dean of the School of Business. “The Barry County Chamber of Commerce finds value in bringing connectivity between the chamber community and Miller College,” said Valerie Byrnes, chamber president. “Our businesses need prepared and educated workers in order to grow, and Miller College provides valuable educational programs that we hope will thrive here in Hastings. It is a great opportunity for all.” The Business After Hours Event is free of charge for all members of the Barry County Chamber of Commerce and $10 for prospective members. RSVP notices are requested by Feb. 6 to Stacy Anderson at stacy@mibarry.com or by calling the chamber, 269-945-2454. When he was visiting the impoverished Caribbean island of Dominica on a mission trip with a group of eye specialists a couple of years ago, Bob Nida met an old woman with a cane struggling to speak to him over the din of a makeshift clinic. “I leaned over to hear her and she said, ‘Bob, I want to thank you and the others for all you have done; you have helped my people. But, Bob, I have some talents, too. I have been a teacher, a mother, a grandmother. I have helped kids in the neighborhood. It seems to me that if we took your talents and mine and combined them, we could do great things.’” Nida used the story of the Dominican woman Friday night as part of his keynote address to the 19 members of this year’s Leadership Barry County class, which kicked off its eight-session professional development series with a weekend retreat at Pierce Cedar Creek Institute. “She understood the concept of leadership,” pointed out Nida, a member of the very first Leadership Barry County class in 1990. “Just from a little idea, something can grow and grow and have life. That’s what’s very exciting ... whether you’re at home, at work, at school, on an athletic team, you can have huge impact. “That’s your responsibility. That’s what leadership is all about.” Though the encounter with the old woman occurred some time ago, Nida has been part of the Dominica mission trip sponsored by the Volunteer Optometrists Serving Humanity for seven of the 18 consecutive years the organization has visited. Nida, who is not an optometrist, has taken time from his position as a Barry County court administrator to assist in the effort to bring eyeglasses, visual services and financial aid for corrective procedures to the people of the island. The effort began, Nida explained, with the little idea of Eaton Rapids optometrist Dr. Daniel Wrubel. Wrubel used his connections and contacts, his passion and influence to build an annual trip that involves 26 to 34 volunteers who spend $2,000 each to make a two-day trip to the deprived but beautiful island located midway between Trinidad and San Juan. Nida described for the Leadership Barry Barry County Court Administrator Bob Nida provides the kickoff address for the 2012 Leadership Barry County Class and used the words of Henry Kissinger to urge his audience to use leadership “to get people from where they are to where they’ve never been.” (Photo by Fred Jacobs) County class how Wrubel solicited Lions Clubs — whose mission is dedicated to vision issues — all over the state for eyeglasses. Wrubel then took thousands of pairs of eyeglasses to his alma mater, Ferris State University, where he still teaches, for students to recondition, determine their prescriptions, and then categorize for distribution in Dominica. Wrubel, a longtime member of his local Rotary Club, then used contacts and connections there to build funds to staff visual clinics and to purchase medical equipment. Rotarians also assisted with government clearance issues and the location of temperature-controlled storage facilities for all the supplies gathered. During the latest visit from which Nida and the team returned just two weeks ago, the group saw 1,760 patients, referred 50 of them to ophthalmologists who, with the group’s connections through the government, took care of those costs, gave out more than 4,000 pairs of eyeglasses, and presented the island’s Ministry of Health with medical equipment for use in the future. For Nida and the others, the payoffs have been immense. “We accomplished some wonderful things,” he summed up. “We saw young people, infants, handicapped people, challenged people, old people. There were people from prisons who couldn’t see well enough to read a book or thread a needle or read their Bible. They couldn’t see different shades of green on the island or the blues in the seas before they came to the clinic. “As I watched doctors putting glasses on people, all of a sudden they could see and they felt so good. For us, it was gratifying to bring some focus to people who didn’t have a lot of hope.” Nida’s message to his Barry County audience was one of encouragement to use leadership to replicate similar good works. “I think you can do the same thing that Dan [Wrubel] did,” exhorted Nida. “Remember, it was an idea from one person that, basically, came to fruition because people came together, got involved and made something happen.” That’s been the idea behind Leadership Barry County since it was formed 22 years ago with a grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation to help further leadership and local government education. With more than 250 graduates, Leadership Barry County has become a vital tool for training tomorrow’s leaders for Barry County and beyond. “I am thrilled that I get to work with a group of such dynamic people from all over the county,” said Leadership Barry County Executive Director Jennifer Richards following the weekend kickoff. “Leadership Barry County gives residents the chance to experience all kinds of different venues that they wouldn’t otherwise get to be a part of.” Planned for the Class of 2012 is a mixture of workshops, home assignments and travel exercises to be led by a variety of resource people. Traveling seminars will supplement the workshop programs and will provide firsthand observation of different community and leadership situations. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 2, 2012 — Page 3 Barry Area Home Show casts eyes of visitors toward spring At left: Affordable Metal Roofing of Hastings is one of 72 vendors staffing this year’s Barry Area Home Show. From foundations to roofing, patrons are able to evaluate the latest in home design. Justin Shaw, hearing instrument specialist with Miracle Ear of 28th Street in Grand Rapids, stays busy with consultations and demonstrations at last weekend’s Barry Area Home Show. Schondelmayer Bar-B-Q is a popular attraction, again offering a 20-item buffet for the price of a $5 home show ticket. Patrons enjoy more than 800 hot dogs and brats, as well as Sandy Schondelmayer’s signature pork, beef and chicken. Kathy Carpenter (left) and daughter Nicole Linker are on hand for the weekend Barry Area Home Show to promote their Ever After Banquet Hall in Hastings. Helping staff the display booth are Nicole’s children Brody (left), 11 months, and Gabby, 4. Though a Saturday snowstorm made travel difficult, the two-day Barry Area Home Show still comes close to last year’s attendance numbers. The tenth annual Barry Area Home Show provides confirming evidence of the area’s resilience in a tough economy and challenging housing industry. Vendor reservations are already being taken for next year’s show. Surprise Your Valentine with ... Valentine Love Lines Like the first robin signaling the coming spring, the Barry Area Home Show successfully warmed the hearts — and eyes — of visitors last weekend at the Barry Expo Center north of Hastings. “Our attendance was down slightly, but that was likely driven by the weather on Saturday,” says Sandy Schondelmayer, who, with Kevin and Cheryl Allerding of Kevin’s Draperies and Fine Furniture, has spearheaded the effort now for 10 consecutive years. “The public was enthusiastic, and our vendors told us that people bought more products and services than in the past.” Especially encouraging for the trio of organizers was the 10-year milestone mark for the event. “This has been a tough economy in a housing-driven environment,” says Schondelmayer. “The fact that we’ve survived and that our vendors have stayed in business says a lot. It definitely was a success.” The show again welcomed more than 70 vendors who crowded every spare space in the approximately 15,000-square-foot Expo Center building. Perhaps the greatest signal of economic health is already being received: Vendor reservations are already being made for next year’s show traditionally scheduled for the final weekend in January. Stay informed on local events. Subscribe to... The Hastings BANNER! Call 945-9554 today! in The Hastings Banner Give Cupid a helping hand with a love line in The Hastings Banner. Compose your own message on the coupon provided, and mail to The Hastings Banner, P.O. Box B, Hastings, MI 49058. A special column will appear in the February 9th issue. Deadline is noon Tuesday, February 7th. Express your feelings to your wife, husband, parents, grandparents, grandchildren, relatives, teachers, best friend or anyone whom you would like to say thanks to for being so nice. The cost is “lovingly low,” just $5.15 for 16 words (additional words 15¢ each). Payment must accompany your message or be paid prior to publication. Enclosed please find my special prepaid Valentine Love Lines Compose Your Own Message Below Compose your own Valentine message—it’s easy to do!! Here are a couple of examples: KES HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY Sweet Beans! that You are the best thing DEAREST BABY CA ever happened to me! Love, Big Bear Our love is here Forever yours, H to stay. oney Bunny Deadline is Noon, Tues., February 7 77565182 NAME ADDRESS CITY TOTAL WORDS IN MESSAGE PHONE STATE ZIP TOTAL AMOUNT ENCLOSED At 16 words $5.15 plus 15¢ each additional word • Message to be published on February 9, 2012 �Page 4 — Thursday, February 2, 2012 — The Hastings Banner see? Did you Sunday coating Forum raises issues with medical marijuana legislation Jacqueline Muma of Hastings snapped this photo Sunday morning as she was returning from Florida. She called the photo — taken along M-37 near Dowling — “Gentle Winter.” Winter has been so gentle, in fact, most of the snow in this photo was gone by Wednesday. Temperatures in the mid50s Tuesday melted away much of the snow that fell over the weekend. The National Weather Service reports that the area received 23 inches of snow in January, but each time it snowed, the weather warmed and the snow disappeared. Interested citizens packed the Commission on Aging Tuesday evening, Jan. 24, to discuss the Michigan Medical Marijuana Act and any potential changes the state may take up in the current legislative session. The Michigan Medical Marijuana Act was passed by 63 percent of Michigan voters in November 2008 and became law Dec. 4, 2008, making it necessary for 75 percent of the House and Senate to amend the law. Seventeen states, including Michigan, have enacted legislation, 14 others states have legislation pending, while two more have petition drive ballot initiatives underway. Throughout the state, governmental units have been slow to adopt ordinances over the regulation of production, sale and consumption of the substance because the law failed to spell out specifics that local governments were expected to follow, leaving them to struggle with the protection, health and welfare of their communities, while still allowing the regulated growth, distribution and use of medical marijuana. The Jan. 24 meeting began with comments from Barry County’s state representative, Michael Callton, followed by 5th Circuit Court Judge Amy McDowell and medical marijuana advocate Ken Beyer. I was asked to moderate the forum to keep the discussion flowing with questions offered from the more than 200 people in attendance. The conversation ranged widely, from statements on the drug’s benefits to distribution and legalizing and taxing the substance. According to Callton, medical marijuana has been a hot topic that few legislators have wanted to tackle. In fact, Callton told me that there was a great deal of interest on how our local forum went. Not only were several legislators surprised with the attendance, they were interested in the range of questions covered during the two-hour event. I don’t know much about the subject, so I found it difficult to participate in any of the discussions other than keeping the peace when some in the audience took the liberty to shout out because they didn’t like a certain response. For the most part, though, attendees were passionate about the benefits they derive from the plants and were there to voice their concerns over any meddling legislators might do with the act. At a recent conference in Detroit, former Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox said he is not ready to endorse full legalization of marijuana, but is offended by efforts “that get in the way of the law.” He went on to say that passing the referendum conferred “a personal right given to patients by Michigan voters, and we ought to be honoring that right.” Yet, current Attorney General Bill Schuette spoke out against the medical marijuana act and is working to narrow its interpretation. In a recent poll by Epic MRA, Michigan voters indicated they would reject the general legalization, possession and use of marijuana by a 50-45 percent margin (with 5 percent undecided or refusing to answer). However, advocates for legalizing marijuana continue to work on a petition drive they would like to put before voters. According to Webster’s, medical cannabis refers to the use of part of the herb cannabis or medical marijuana, as a physician-recommended medicine for herbal therapy. The medicinal value of the cannabis remains controversial. A large majority of national governments don’t recognize the use of the plant, yet the drug has a history of medicinal use, with evidence dating back to 2737 B.C. According to Kevin Sabet, former advisor to the national Office of Drug Control Policy and presently a researcher at the We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@jadgraphics.com. Do you know? Keep refrigerated Do you recognize these people or know why they are posing in front of a Fridgidaire refrigerator? The paper the man on the left is handing to the woman reads “five-year warranty.” Did they win the appliance? Was it a new store? In the background stands a grandfather clock, the walls have floral wallpaper and the floor is carpeted. Was this photo taken in the couple’s home or at a store? What can you tell us? We did not receive any response to last week’s photo of two men in front of a furnace or stove. If you know who the men are, what they are doing, why or where the photo was taken, please let us know. The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event. If you have information on these photos, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@j-adgraphics.com, or call 269-945-9554. Have you met? Still teaching at 94 Since she was a student at the old Sunfield High School, Kathryn Mix has been a piano teacher. In nearly 80 years of teaching, which continues today with her current 25 students, Mix, 94, won’t even speculate on how many learners she’s had share the piano bench with her — though, if she were able to put them all together, “we could have quite a reunion.” Kathryn and her husband, Joe, who died in 1995, made beautiful music together as he built and prospered with his piano-tuning business. Today, Kathryn divides her teaching time between the Community Music School in Hastings and her home studio with a teaching roster that ranges from students age 5 to “adults who are all getting their Social Security now.” Retirement never enters Kathryn’s mind because she hopes never to give up something she loves. Though she says she gets tired, but never tired of what she’s doing, Kathryn’s shingle still hangs with an “open for new students” declaration. She’s a member of the National Music Teachers Association as well as its state affiliate and maintains her certification as one of the best teachers to have graced the profession. For the contributions she’s made — and is still making — Kathryn Mix is a Barry County “bright light.” How I met my husband: I went down through the Reminder until I found a piano tuner. Great pianist ever: I’d have to name 10. Favorite music genre: They’re all very good, but I’d probably say the Romantic era: Rachmaninoff, Chopin, Schubert and Brahms. The book I’d recommend: An American Virtuoso on the World Stage: Olga Samaroff Stokowski. She was one of the first teachers at the Juilliard School. But I University of Florida’s College of Medicine, “a growing body of scientific research shows the marijuana plant does have legitimate medical uses.” But, he believes those uses should be channeled through FDA-approved pharmaceuticals. Sabet said he opposes state efforts to legalize marijuana for any reasons because it could result in millions of Americans being addicted. He’s worked for both Republican and Democratic presidents and says that the position has been a constant across presidential administrations, including the Obama Administration. I found the forum to be very educational and a wonderful example of citizens expressing their viewpoints in an open setting with legislators, law officials and medical experts. I didn’t have strong feelings over the use of medical marijuana, but, like many citizens, I do have serious concerns over making marijuana’s general use legal. It didn’t take long for the panelists to realize a host of concerns facing users and growers of medical marijuana. Growers had many concerns with how many plants they are allowed and what to do with any excess. There were also a number of questions concerning the delivery of the substance to their patients. Although patients using the drug voiced high praise for its benefits, they felt they were often made to feel like criminals with complications brought on by the undefined areas created by the weak legislation. Our state legislators took the path of least resistance by forcing the pro-marijuana group to a referendum vote back in 2008, circumventing the legislative process. Now that the law has been put in place for a few years, the legislative weaknesses are showing up as more people use the substance. It’s not clear what changes state legislators will propose in the coming months, yet, it’s crystal clear that a majority of proponents of the act will fight to keep the legal use of medical-marijuana in place. The Revue sparkles in popular musical A cast of more than 60 people from surrounding communities performed the popular musical “Annie” to sold-out crowds in The Revue’s Main Street Theatre in downtown Nashville. My wife and I were in attendance Saturday evening, among a sold-out crowd that clearly enjoyed The Revue’s presentation when 30 orphans took the stage and blew us away with their abilities to sing and act as it they were headlining on Broadway. Annie, played by Maggie Doherty was a big hit as she belted out her songs and appeared comfortable with her lead part. And, Miss Hannigan, played by Lori McNeill, took over the part as if she were a seasoned actress. According to the program, this was her first time on stage, but her performance showed that she is a natural “character” actor. And, Jeremy Schneider, no stranger to the stage, this time portraying Oliver Warbucks, maintained a hard-nosed business approach that weakened as he became attached to his special Annie. From beginning to end, and from servants to schemers to the White House staff, the cast of The Revue pulled off another great production, showing their high standards and professionalism by drawing sell-out crowds to one of America’s most popular musicals in downtown Nashville. Fred Jacobs, vice president of J-Ad Graphics Kathryn Mix love westerns, too. When I grow up I want to be ... just what I’ve been all my life. I like people and music. I feel like I’ve given my students a background. If I were president ... I’d figure out how to give everybody a job. Favorite cartoon character: Charlie Brown, but Dagwood Bumstead was a favorite, too. If I won the lottery ... I’d look for someplace to hide the money. Greatest regret: I have none. Greatest song ever written: Put a dumbdumb sign next to that one — but I’d go hear Rachmanioff’s Second Symphony anytime, anyplace. Best teacher I ever had: Mr. Samuel Robinson of Olivet College. I started the music program at Olivet then quit to get married — see what fools people were back then? But, after I raised my family, Mr. Robinson took me back as a private student and taught me the things I needed to be a teacher. Advice I’d give a young person: Get educated and learn how to work with all kinds of people and nationalities. The television program I enjoy the most: Sometimes I sit and watch and don’t enjoy it all. Give me “Bonanza,” “Gunsmoke” or any good western with John Wayne. Best thing about Barry County: The lakes and the people. I’m beginning to like the general population better than when I first came — probably because I know most of them by now. Each week, The Banner profiles a person from the community working behind the scenes, whose efforts may not make headlines, but whose dedication makes Barry County shine. We’ll provide a quick peek each week at some of Barry County’s stars. Do you know someone who should be featured? Send information to Newsroom, Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. What do you think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website, www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question . . . and don’t forget to use our new feature, leave us an opinion or comment. Last week’s question: The Detroit Tigers dramatically improved their odds of winning next year’s World Series with Tuesday’s signing of superstar Prince Fielder. Is the nine-year, $214 million contract the Tigers guaranteed Fielder a good investment? 53% 47% Yes No Ban cell phones from schools? For this week: Cell phone use in high schools has created distractions and, in one of our area high schools, contributed to a serious disturbance. Should cell phones be banned from Michigan public schools? q Yes q No �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 2, 2012 — Page 5 MARIJUANA, continued from page 5 Schools seeking recreational millage On Jan. 30, the Hastings Area School System Board of Education approved a millage ballot proposal to present to the voters on May 8. The millage proposal is for 1.6 mills from 2012-2021, and is a public recreational millage, which is one of only a couple ways for Michigan schools to get additional funding. A question being asked frequently is why the district is presenting a recreational millage when there are so many critical instructional needs in the schools. The answer is that the funds from this proposal passing will help preserve important school programs for our students as a result of the public’s extensive use of the schools’ recreational facilities. The way this will work is that currently the cost of maintaining the public’s use of fields, gyms, pool, and other school facilities (more than $800,000) is taken from the district’s general fund budget. This millage will defray these costs by providing $779,000, and that money then can be used for instructional programs, and future cuts will not be as deep because of the millage revenue. Therefore, a law passed in 1917 enables the district to request this 1.6 mills, returning over $779,000 to the general fund that will be used for academic programming. Two community forums about the millage proposal will provide additional information, and voters are invited to attend the forums. The first forum is scheduled for 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 9, in the Hastings High School lecture hall. The time and location for the second forum is the same, but it will be conducted Thursday, March 1. Please attend these forums to learn the importance of this millage proposal to the future of our students and community. The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of for-profit businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators: U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. Rick Tormela, regional representative. U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Casey Cheney Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Helen Mudry • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 Barry County officials are embracing the power of social media in seeking community input for an effort to overhaul its current website, www.barrycounty.org. The county launched facebook.com/smartcounty Jan. 24 as a new marketplace for ideas to be shared between county officials, residents and business owners who may be able to share helpful past experiences and ideas for the future. “Expanding online service is essential to the future,” said County Commissioner Ben Geiger, who is leading the effort to revamp the county’s online presence. “Barry County taxpayers deserve a first-class website, built specifically for their needs and with their own ideas.” The Facebook presence is designed to enhance the Smart County Initiative, a yearlong project that Barry County recently launched in an effort to enhance customer service through simplified instructions and new technology. “The county’s presence on Facebook offers a new mechanism to interact with local government,” said David Shinavier, Barry County IT coordinator. Expanded online payment systems, “how to” guides, faster downloads, and simplified navigation were labeled as priorities when the Barry County Board of Commissioners green-lighted the website overhaul in December. County leaders will research the Facebook comments in planning the new website, tentatively scheduled for launch this summer. Correction The Hastings Board of Education story in the Jan. 19 edition of the Banner included a misspelled name. Nancy Hamann donated a Canon Rebel EOS camera body and accessories valued at $875 to be used by the Hastings High School yearbook class. Write Us A Letter: The Hastings but in clear legal limits — with the proposed ordinance. “I’m transferring patient to patient,” Green told the council. “It has been determined that I am not a caregiver — I am totally legal by the law. You can pass this ordinance, but I am not shutting down.” Another resident addressed a requirement in the proposed village ordinance to register vehicles used in the transporting of medical marijuana, saying, “It is none of your business. I’m telling you, I’m not going to do it.” One person claimed that half of the residents in Nashville have medical marijuana cards. The cards must be issued by an attending physician for the legal use of medical marijuana. “I’ve got Graves’ disease,” said another. “If I don’t smoke, I don’t eat. The proposed ordinance states that a qualifying patient may not be present at the residence of the primary caregiver to purchase, smoke, consume, obtain or receive possession of any marijuana. “What if a caregiver and patient are married? Are they to split up?” asked James Brown. The council voted to table the ordinance and resubmit it to the appropriate committee and village attorney for further considerations and revision. In other business, council approved a recommendation to increase cell phone reimbursements from $12.50 to $15 per month for part-time employees of the village. County launches Facebook site in quest for new ideas HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, Feb. 2 — Movie Memories celebrates the Oscars with “It Happened One Night,” 5 to 8 p.m.; library book club discusses Please Look After Mom by KyungSook Shin, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3 — preschool story time learns about squirrels, 10:30 to 11 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4 — Lego Club creates a scene from the wild, wild West, 1 to 3 p.m. Monday, Feb. 6 — winter reading club for adults continues; computer class tackles “blogs, Wikis, social networking and more, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7 — toddler story time enjoys Valentine’s Day, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.; open chess club, 6 to 8 p.m.; genealogy club, 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 8 — Terrific Tweens have “A Minute to Win It,” 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Call the Hastings Public Library for more information about any of the above, 269-9454263. Reinvention progressing Last month, Gov. Rick Snyder delivered his second state of the state address. The speech took almost an hour due to the multiple interruptions for applause. Much like last year, Gov. Snyder painted a clear picture of the current well-being of the state of Michigan and laid out a clear and concise plan for 2012. While the governor covered a wide range of subjects, his overall message was clear: Michigan made great progress last year but there is still much work to do. Last year, Michigan began to reinvent itself as a state. We are currently in the midst of this reinvention, and many long-overdue reforms were signed into law last year. However, many of the reforms have not had enough time to take effect. This year, it will be critical to measure the results of these reforms and compare the results with intended goals. In order for more progress to continue, Michigan must become as effective and efficient as possible. This means removing laws and regulations that are outdated or impede progress. Last year, the governor eliminated more than 400 regulations that were no longer necessary, such as requiring toilet seats to be put down in outhouses and requiring child care workers to smile. These laws both serve as prime examples of the progress that still needs to be made. The unemployment rate dropped last year, but there are still far too many Michiganders who are underemployed or do not have jobs at all. In order for our economy to flourish, more regulations must be eliminated and government must be streamlined. I have every confidence that the reforms enacted last year will help create a positive job environment in Michigan and set the stage for a stronger, brighter Michigan. I will continue to work to ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent wisely, and I will do everything in my power to improve the economic climate of Michigan. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Senate as well as with the Gov. Snyder and the House to move Michigan forward. Read The BANNER every week! Copies conveniently available on newsstands throughout the Barry County area. �Page 6 — Thursday, February 2, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Local college students offering free tax filing assistance Many low- and middle- income families qualify for free e-filing Student and faculty volunteers from local colleges are trained and ready to kick off free income tax preparation sessions, available to low- and middle-income (less than $50,000 in total family income) tax filers at locations across West Michigan. Worship Together… 77565512 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. ORANGEVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH 6921 Marsh Rd., 2 miles south of Gun Lake, Plainwell. Phone 269664-4377. OrangevilleBaptist. org. Pastors Dan Bowman and Adam Parmenter. Sunday - 9:45 a.m. Adult Classes Offered: 1) Book of James; 2) Book of Jude; 3) Young Adult Class. Children, teen and adult Sunday School classes; 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Worship; 5:30 p.m. Junior and Senior High Word of Life Clubs. Tuesday - 9 a.m. Men’s Prayer and Bible Study. Wednesday - 6:30 p.m. Pre-school through 6th grade Word of Life Gophers & Olympians. Prayer & Bible Study 7 p.m. 6 p.m. Teen Word of Life. Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University - 13 weeks - JanuaryMarch. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Paul Osborn, Minister of Music; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service, Jr. & Sr. High Groups. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. HASTINGS SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH 904 Terry Lane, Hastings (or on the corner of Starr School Road and Terry Lane.) Phone: (269) 9452170. Pastor Michael Wise. Sabbath www.hastingssda.com (Saturday) School 9:30 a.m.; worship service 10:50 a.m. Mid-week meetings informal study and prayer service, Wednesdays 7 p.m. Youth ministry clubs, Adventurers for preschool to 4th grade students and Pathfinders for 5th grade students through high school, meet on the first and third Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. and first and third Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. respectively. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. CHURCH OF THE LIVING GOD A full gospel church. 1240 W. State Rd., Hastings. Pastor Doug Davis. 269-948-9740. Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study 6 p.m. Sunday School and Youth Group for all ages. Come and worship the Lord with us! . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Phone 269-721-8077. Minister Ryan Wieland 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Praise Worship Service; Noon alternate weekends Youth Group Tuesday. Covenant Prayer Group, Wednes-day 6:30 p.m., Choir Practice. Thursday 7 p.m. Praise Band Practice. 2nd and 4th Thursdays at 7 p.m. Christ’s Quilters. Friday 6:30 p.m., CPRChrist’s Plan for Recovery (meal served). For more information small groups, special evnts or if you have a prayer requst, call the church office and see postings on WEB site: www.countrychapel.umc.org. SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North Amer-ica and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Cronk cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 2 p.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-797-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nash-ville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 or -517-852-1806. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS REFORMED CHURCH “A Historic Reformed Commun-ity.” Sunday morning services begin at 10 a.m. Meeting at the Barry County Commission on Aging building, 320 W. Woodlawn Ave., Hastings. Pastor: Peter Adams. 616-690-8609 padams@juno.com. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 9:15 Contemporary Worship, 10:30 a.m. Refreshments, 11 a.m. Traditional Worship. Sunday School for PreK2nd and 3rd-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. The Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Pastor of Senior Adults and Visitation, Don Brail. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. for children, youths and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Senior High Youth Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Mid-Week: 6:30-7:45 p.m. Pioneer Clubs, age 4th to 5th grade, and Junior High Youth Group, 6th-8th grade. Thursday: 10 a.m. Senior Adult Discussion and 11:30 a.m., lunch at Wendy’s. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Sunday, February 5 - Worship at 8 & 10:45 a.m. 9:30 a.m. Sunday School. Holy Communion Every Sunday! Men’s AA @ 7:00. Feb. 6 Women of Faith Bible Study @ 7:00; Feb. 7 Congregation Shepherds Meeting @ 2:00; Worship Committee @ 7:00; Brothers of Grace Men’s Group @ 7:00. Feb. 8 Changing Behavior to prevent falls program @ 9:00 a.m.; Wordwatchers Bible Study @ 10 a.m.; Education Committee @ 6:30. Feb. 9 - Clapper Kids Bell Choir. Feb. 11 - Worship Committee Workshop @ 9:00-12:00. 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-9459414 or 945-2645, fax 269-9452698. Pastor Amy Luckey http://www.discovergrace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 9 a.m. Worship Service - Traditional; 10 a.m. Sunday School for All Ages; 11 a.m. Worship Service Contemporary; 6:00 Youth Group. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blog spot.com. Thursday - 9 a.m. Men’s Bible Study; 11:30 Women’s Brown Bag Bible Study; 6:30 p.m. Choir Rehearsal. Friday - 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday - 8 a.m. Men’s Breakfast; 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday - 3 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Fiberglass Products Lauer Family Funeral Homes 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 Volunteers are providing assistance in conjunction with the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, a cooperative effort of the Internal Revenue Service and nonprofit groups that train volunteers to prepare basic tax returns in communities across the country. As volunteers, accounting students have been certified by the IRS to participate. The participating students are enrolled at Aquinas College, Cornerstone University, Hope College and Davenport University. “This volunteer effort gives students a chance to gain some real-world work experience with actual clients while also benefiting those who need assistance completing their tax returns,” said Deb Kiss, department chair for accounting and finance at Davenport University. The free tax preparation service will be available at 11 different sites across West Michigan. These free services are available at various locations, including: • Hastings Public Library, 227 E. State St. Hastings; Saturdays, Feb. 11 and April 7, from 9 a.m. to noon; and Feb. 25, March 10 and March 24, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. • Davenport University, W.A. Lettinga Campus, Room 222, 6191 Kraft Ave. SE, Caledonia; Fridays 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. and Saturdays 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Jan. 27 to April 14. Tax assistance is offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Those wishing to take advantage of the free program should bring the following paperwork with them: photo identification and Social Security card for filer, Social Security numbers for spouse and dependents; birth dates for primary, secondary and dependents on the tax return; wage and earning statements Form W-2, W-2G, 1099-R from all employers; interest and dividend statements from banks (Forms 1099); a copy of last year’s federal and state returns, if available; bank routing numbers and account numbers for direct deposit; everything labeled “important tax document;” and rent information and landlord’s name or 2010 taxable value of home and property taxes. The program will also be offering a new alternative method to e-file for free. Called the FAST or FreeFile program, clients can come to designated FAST sites (Caledonia campus is a FAST site) and prepare their own taxes with the assistance of a tax coach. Clients may choose from three tax software options, including TaxSlayer, H&R Block TaxCut and Intuit’s Turbotax. With this new feature, people can electronically file state taxes for free, and the income limits are higher. People whose income is $57,000 or less can take advantage of this method. To schedule an appointment, call 616-8716147 or visit http://taxhelp.davenport.edu, which also includes a complete list of locations and times for VITA assistance, Space heaters still need monitoring Regardless of Punxsutawney Phil’s spring prediction today, Consumers Energy encourages safe and “well-grounded” use of supplemental electric heating devices. The chill of February may encourage resi- dents to use supplemental methods of heating their homes. In doing so, never use the cooking stove as the main heat source as it may be a safety hazard or cause a fire. Also, do not use gas-fired space heaters in small, enclosed Area Obituaries Victor Niles Braendle HASTINGS, MI - Victor Niles Braendle, age 53, of Hastings, passed away Thursday, January 26, 2012, unexpectedly. He was born January 9, 1959 in Havana, IL the son of Neil and Joan (Ashurst) Braendle. In his early years in Illinois, Victor loved to visit with his doting Grandpa and Grandma Ashurst. Victor went to Cardinal games in St. Louis and became a Chicago Bears fan. When the family moved to Michigan he instantly became a Tigers fan. He also enjoyed watching the Red Wings and was a Spartan fan, as well. Victor attended Hastings High School, graduating in 1977. He trained and worked for a year as a medical assistant following graduation from Hastings High School, was an associate in two family businesses. He spent his last 10 years working in his favorite vocation as a truck driver. Victor and his dad enjoyed many trips to Battle Creek to see the Cats and they were present to see the team win a championship in 2000. He took his sons, Nelson and Nick to many hockey games in Kalamazoo and they enjoyed so many great times together, and he could spend hours with his grandchildren. Victor had a work ethic like no other and enjoyed people. He was a good and kind man with a caring heart and loved his family. He had many friends, with special mention to best buddies: Darrell Grinnell, Marty VanHouten and Chris Patrick, Tracy Symonds, and during his lifetime many comforting pets: Nipsy, Squiggles, Maggie, Zipper, Peaches and Jackie. Victor loved and was loved. Victor was preceded in death by his grandparents. Victor is survived by his wife, Debbie; sons, Nelson (Bobbi) Braendle of Austin, TX and Nicholas Braendle of Nashville; three grandchildren, Vivian Parker, Dezmund Braendle and Dexter Braendle, all of Austin, TX; sister, Maria Diane Braendle of Charlotte and several nieces and nephews. Respecting Victor’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be scheduled at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to: American Diabetes Association, Grand Rapids MI Office, 3940 Broadmoor Ave., SE, Suite 100, Grand Rapids, MI 49512 or Meijer Heart Center c/o Spectrum Health Foundation, 100 Michigan St. NE MC004, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a message or memory to the family. Germaine Faith Hansen Germaine Faith Hansen entered into Heaven on January 29, 2012. She was born January 12, 1925 in Menominee and spent her entire life there until June 2012 when she moved to her son's home in Middleville. She was married to her loving husband Bjarne I. Hansen for 67 years. He proceeded her in death, March 2011. She is survived by her son, Timothy (Deb) Hansen, Middleville and her daughter, Cynthia (Rick) Westman, Okatos, Alberta, Canada; two granddaughters, two grandsons and four great grandchildren. A gathering of remembrance will be held at Whitneyville Bible Church, Whitneyville Rd, Caledonia, Friday, February 3, 2012 from 6 to 8 p.m. Please visit www.beelergoresfuneral.com to view and sign Germaine's online guest book. areas due to the potential of carbon monoxide poisoning. It is most economical to use a home’s furnace to heat large areas and multiple rooms. An electric space heater can be a good way to heat a small area. If using an electric space heater, Consumers Energy offers the following safety tips: • When purchasing an electric space heater, make sure it has an Underwriters Laboratories (UL) label. • If the appliance has a three-prong plug, plug it directly into the wall outlet. The third prong grounds the appliance and prevents shocks. Some extension cords may not be able to handle the amount of electricity required to operate the appliance safely and could cause a fire. • Keep heater away from curtains, drapes, and bedspreads or anything flammable. • Keep the heater away from water and never touch the heater when wet. • Always unplug the heater before leaving or going to bed. • Do not use the space heater if the cord is frayed or damaged. • Never use a space heater in place of a home heating system. • Heating ducts and water pipes in unheated areas should be wrapped with insulation. • If water pipes become frozen, never use electric appliances (such as hair dryers) to remedy the situation. To maximize the warmth of a home, open the curtains on sunny days and replace furnace filters often to help the furnace operate efficiently. For more information, access the Consumers Energy website at www.consumersenergy.com. Need wedding invitations? Check out the large selection at Printing Plus 1351 N. M-43 Hwy., Hastings just north of city limits Lake Odessa by Elaine Garlock The Lake Odessa Area Historical Society will meet Thursday, Feb. 9, at 7 p.m. at the Freight House. The society held a successful quilt show last weekend except for the snow Sunday afternoon. The Ionia County Genealogical Society will meet Saturday, Feb. 11, at 1 p.m. at the Depot Complex. Bruce Chadwick of Saranac will be the speaker with his topic the life of an ancestor who survived the horrors of Andersonville Prison. The library will be open until 5 p.m. Visitors are always welcome. A chili supper is returning to the museum next weekend with a supper being served from 5 to 7 p.m. The varieties are venison, Cincinnati style and a regular variety. Proceeds will benefit the funding for a new roof on the depot. This is sponsored by the local historical society. Lakewood High School grounds now include a disc golf course. The project was funded by local businesses and by the building bond funds. The course is laid out through the woods on the west end of the campus. When not in use by the school, the course will be open to the public. The Lake Odessa Community Library is having a shadow show at 4:05 today. This mystery program is for students ages 5 through 11. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 2, 2012 — Page 7 BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY by Gerald Stein NORTH N: 7 4 3 M: A 8 6 2 L: A Q J 7 2 K: 8 WEST EAST N: A Q J 10 9 M: J L: K: A J 10 6 4 3 2 N: K 6 2 M: 4 4 L: 9 8 6 K: K Q 9 7 5 SOUTH: Hastings High School students who competed in the Clio Science Olympiad tournament Saturday include (front row, from left) Braxton Prill, Ryan Thornburgh, (second row) Sarah Thornburgh, Taylor Carter, Cassie Glumm, Tammy VanStee, Avery Lomas, Sidney Dudley, Rachael Kingsbury, Allie Porter, (third row) Megan Denny, Jenna Nedbalek, (fourth row) Ashley Weinbrecht, Hannah Barnard, Maria Palacio, Jaelynn Purdum, Abby Campbell, Corrie Osterink, Kelsi Harden, Naomi VanDien, Kaitlan Allan, Dakota Gaskill, (back) coach Marty Buehler, John Dinges, Tom Peurach, Peter Beck, Marshall Cherry, Ian Beck, Eddy Kosta, Joey Longstreet, Dexx VanHouten and Alex Cherry. Hastings Science Olympiad team competes in Clio Strong finishes were scored by Hastings competitors in many of the 23 science-related events, said coach Marty Buehler. Tom Peurach engineered the best tower and best helicopter in the field. He was aided by Braxton Prill. Joey Longstreet and Megan Denny finished strong in technical problem solving. Other award winners in their events were Megan Denny and Jenna Nedbalek in Disease Detectives, Kaitlan Allan and Abby Campbell in Dynamic Planet, Sarah Thornburgh and Furry weatherman resting in nearby burrows In honor of Groundhog Day, Banner staff dug up some information on the dual-identity rodent to share with readers, courtesy of Cornell University. Groundhog, woodchuck — what’s the difference? Woodchuck and groundhog are common terms for the same animal, the rodent with the scientific name of Marmota monax. Most closely related to squirrels, woodchucks actually can climb trees and also swim. What’s so special about Feb. 2? Celestially speaking, Groundhog Day on Feb. 2 is a “cross-quarter” day, about halfway between the winter solstice in December and the vernal equinox in March, and is celebrated in some cultures as the midpoint of winter. It’s not far from the time many groundhogs end their hibernation anyway, around the second week of February. What’s going on in that burrow? In the winter, not much. Groundhogs go into profound hibernation, greatly reducing their metabolic rate, and their body temperature drops to just a few degrees above ambient temperature. Because their hibernaculum, the deepest portion of the burrow where they hibernate, is below frost line, that produces a body temperature as low as 39 or 40 degrees Fahrenheit. What’s the wake-up call? The groundhog’s internal clock is believed to be affected by annual changes in the amount of daylight. Hormonal responses to cyclic changes in production of melatonin, a sleep-related hormone, are thought by some to be the signal to wake up. Why did groundhog fur coats go out of fashion? Groundhog fur never was in vogue, partly because it is not particularly thick and warm, and because the fur’s grizzled gray-brown appearance is more appealing to others of their species than to people. Groundhog hairs are used for tying trout flies, such as the ‘Chuck Caddis, and early American Indians once used sturdy woodchuck hides for soles of moccasins. What’s for dinner? Groundhogs in the wild eat succulent green plants, such as dandelion greens, clover, plantain and grasses. They also are tempted by nearby garden vegetables. At Cornell University, they dine on Agway Woodchuck Chow, a similar formulation to rabbit feed but in larger-sized pellets. Woodchucks binge and purposefully put on weight in the summer, reaching their maximum mass in late August. They become lethargic and prepare for hibernation in October. By February, hibernating woodchucks have lost as much as half their body weight. How much wood could a woodchuck chuck if a woodchuck could chuck wood? About 700 pounds. Compared to beavers, groundhogs or woodchucks are not adept at moving timber, although some will chew wood. (At Cornell, woodchucks that gnaw their wooden nest boxes are given scraps of two-by-four lumber.) A wildlife biologist once measured the inside volume of a typical woodchuck burrow and estimated that — if wood filled the hole instead of dirt — the industrious animal would have chucked about 700 pounds’ worth. Sources: Cornell Chronicle; College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University; New York State Department of Environmental Conservation; Mammals of the Eastern United States, second edition, William J. Hamilton Jr. and John O. Whitaker Jr. SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN Jenna Nedbalek in Microbe Mission, Joey Longstreet, Sarah Thornburgh and Jenna Nedbalek in protein modeling, Naomi VanDien and Avery Lomas in rocks and minerals, and Marshall Cherry and Rachael Kingsbury in Sounds of Music. The Saxons will be back in action Feb. 11 at the Thornapple Kellogg invitational. The Science Olympiad program is made possible by support from the Hastings Educational Enrichment Foundation. Newborn Babies Isabella Adele, born at Pennock Hospital on January 18, 2012 at 3:34 a.m. to Jeff and Loralee Bourgeois of Clarksville. Weighing 6 lbs. 11 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Adelyn Grace, born at Pennock Hospital on January 15, 2012 at 7:52 p.m. to Ashley Morton and Derrick Pepper of Lake Odessa. Weighing 9 lbs. 14 ozs. and 21 inches long. ***** Payton Mackenzie, born at Pennock Hospital on January 20, 2012 at 6:42 p.m. to Faye and Matt Estep of Sunfield. Weighing 9 lbs. 15 ozs. and 19 1/2 inches long. ***** Charlee Alyse, born at Pennock Hospital on January 18, 2012 at 2:34 p.m. to Shar-Lee and Randy Wiers of Lake Odessa. Weighing 11 lbs. and 21 inches long. ***** Michael Jacob, born at Pennock Hospital on January 21, 2012 at 1:29 a.m. to Meredith and Louis DeLorenza of Hastings. Weighing 2 lbs. ***** Tessa Rose Spidle, born at Metro Health Hospital on December 29, 2011 at 11:13 p.m. to Kami Sager and Jeffery Spidle of Middleville. Weighing 8 lbs. 11 ozs. and 22 inches long. Welcomed home by big brother Hunter. West North Pass Pass Pass 1S 4S East Pass 2S Pass South Pass Pass Pass While the West team arrived at a nice 4 Spade Contract, and they make it easily with two overtricks with a poor lead, did you notice what they failed to mention in their bidding? What about those wonderful Clubs in the West hand? Shouldn’t West have mentioned them to East who also has a wonderful Club hand as well as support for partner’s opening spade bid? Did they miss a small slam in spades as well as in clubs? As it turns out, trump for East-West in both spades and clubs can make 12 tricks if the lead is wrong. Six spades goes down one trick if the lead from North is the singleton 8 of Clubs, a good lead for sure. With no Clubs, South is sure to pounce on the Club lead with a small spade trump, and if she returns a Heart to the Ace that North has, the North-South team sets the Spade small slam one trick. With an East-West 6 Clubs small slam, they lose one heart trick to the Ace of Hearts held by North, and the East-West team easily makes the small slam. What happened, then, to the East-West team to miss the Club slam? Interestingly enough, there is no interference from the North-South team. What happens to the bidding when the North-South team becomes competitive and throws in some “get-in-your-face” bidding? How does that change the outcome of the hand? Let’s look at Table Two as an extreme contrast. The same cards are held by four other players in another spot. Notice the difference in bidding and results. West North East South Pass Pass 2H 3H Pass 3NT Pass Pass Pass What just happened here? This is as close to a disaster in bridge as you would never want. What was South’s bid and how did it disrupt the easy road to a 4 Spade game as bid at the first table? The North-South team, in partnership agreement, plays weak two-bids, and in third seat, South has no problem throwing in a disruptive weak two-heart bid, a preemptive bid. South is promising between 5 and 11 high-card points, at least six hearts headed by three of the top five honors, and she hopes to create some havoc with the East-West partnership’s bidding. In this hand, South did exactly that. West uses a cue bid of three hearts to let his partner know that he has a good hand and he asks East to bid. East complies by bidding 3 No Trump, a most awful contract in the entire bridge world for this hand. South passes smoothly; west huddles for a bit and then finally passes; North passes smoothly, and it is all over for the EastWest team. It is time for the North-South team to run all of the heart tricks, and all of the diamond tricks to set the East-West team seven tricks, vulnerable, for down 700 points. The question comes up immediately then: Why did West allow such a travesty to happen? He has at least two places to go with 7 nice Clubs and 5 strong spades. With a void in Diamonds and a singleton in Hearts, the last place on earth in this bridge hand seems to be 3 NT. Bidding Spades or Clubs would have sent the East-West team on its way to a makeable game in Spades or possibly a Small Slam in Clubs. By the way, did you notice that the North-South team can make 4 Hearts or 5 Diamonds if they bid on? Happy Bridge in 2012. (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs.) Marriage Licenses Certified Financial Planning Randy Teegardin, CFP.® Hastings City Bank Trust and Investment Group Patrick Joseph Prus, Howard City and Loraine Beth Jenkins, Wayland. 269-945-2401 150 W. Court St. Hastings, MI 49058 Investment opportunities include non deposit investments which are: Not FDIC Insured Not Bank Guaranteed May Lose Value ® The 77565651 spouse’s or disability benefits at www.socialsecurity.gov/applyonline. • Apply for Medicare at www.socialsecurity.gov/medicareonly. • Request a replacement Medicare card at www.socialsecurity.gov/medicarecard/. • Learn about extra help with Medicare prescription drug costs at www.socialsecurity.gov/prescriptionhelp, where you can find a link to apply. Punxsutawney Phil has called for six more weeks of winter 87 percent of the time. We suspect that’s because he just likes to stay in his comfortable home. You can too, on Groundhog Day or any day, by going online. Whatever the weather, learn all about the things you can do online at www.socialsecurity.gov/onlineservices. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email at vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. The bidding at Table One went as follows: 77565659 Don’t wait six weeks by Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Today, the world’s most famous groundhog is getting a lot of attention. On Groundhog Day, the world’s furriest weather reporter, Punxsutawney Phil, will pop out of his home to forecast one of two possibilities: an early spring or six more weeks of winter. Regardless of what Punxsutawney Phil predicts, there’s no reason to wait six weeks to do business with Social Security. Whatever the weather, you can visit the online office from the convenience and comfort of your warm and cozy home or office. Just go to ww.socialsecurity.gov. You can do so many things online. And it’s so easy, even a groundhog could do it ... if eligible. Below are a few of the things that can be done at www.socialsecurity.gov. • Get an instant, personalized estimate of future retirement benefits with the Retirement Estimator at www.socialsecurity.gov/estimator. • Apply for Social Security retirement, With both sides vulnerable and North the dealer, two very different results happened recently at two bridge tables. What happened and why? What would have been your contract on today’s hand? 77564841 The Hastings High School Science Olympiad team traveled to the 14th annual Clio Science Olympiad Tournament Saturday, Jan. 28. The Saxons split their talent, placing most of their upperclassmen on one team and a majority of underclassmen on a second team. The tournament drew 34 teams; Hastings was the only team from the west side of the state. The Saxon upperclassmen team finished 10th while the mostly underclassmen team had a 29th place finish. N: 8 5 M: K Q 10 9 7 5 L: K 10 5 4 3 K: �Page 8 — Thursday, February 2, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of EDWARD JONES Investors can learn much from Super Bowl teams Ceaseless change dominates dynamic planet by Dr. E. Kirsten Peters Nothing about Earth history is static or unchanging. That’s particularly true of climate, and thereon hangs more than one interesting tale including recent news of a scientific advance in understanding how past climate has changed. It wasn’t too long ago — about the 1830s — that naturalists started to seriously think the globe has undergone revolutions in climate. The evidence for that came from Europe, where glacially polished and transported rocks dot the landscape. By going high up into the Alps, men like Louis Agassiz studied glaciers, how they slowly flow downhill and how they shape the land around them. Then, looking at the rocks and landscapes of Germany, Scotland and other such places, many naturalists started to become convinced climate had once been radically colder and glaciers had covered essentially all of northern Europe. That was disquieting news for people who had always assumed that climate was an unchanging part of the world. As the 1800s unfolded further, American geologists got into the act. They mapped out glacial debris in New England, the Upper Midwest, and then parts of the mountainous West. One geologist had the wit to reason that when thick glaciers covered much of the land, they must have locked up a great deal of water, so sea level must have been lower. Later investigations showed that to be true. The oceans control many aspects of climate, but when conditions are cold enough to produce worldwide glaciation, sea level is strongly affected by climate. It was during the 1800s that scientists clearly recognized how different animal species had been during the last ice age. Famous and exotic animals like the woolly mammoth and the saber-tooth tiger roamed the land. There were also many other lesserknown mammals of the time, such as a beaver as large as a black bear. There were a few animals we still know today, such as the musk ox, but the different climate appears to have been linked to the flourishing of a number of species we simply don’t have around us today. Early geologists couldn’t see clear reasons for climate to change — becoming bitter during the Ice Age and then warmer during our own epoch. We didn’t doubt the rad- ical evolution of climate change, but at first it just wasn’t clear what could be driving the alterations that clearly had important effects for Earth history. In a step-by-step process, science came to recognize two factors that probably control most climate change. One is minor but important variations in Earth’s orbit around the sun. The other is the composition of the atmosphere. A dramatic step forward in climate studies was made around 1900. Using ice cores drilled first in Greenland and then in Antarctica, scientists were able to study snow deposited in annual layers on the ice sheets, going back in time one by one like growth rings of a tree. And the news from those studies was shocking: the evidence was clear that climate can lurch from warmer to colder times in just one human generation. Some new research takes up the tale of climate change with reference to what likely caused the extensive ice sheet in Antarctica to form. That enormous repository of ice came into being about 34 million years ago and has been influencing climate ever since. New evidence from researchers at Yale and Purdue universities published in Science magazine suggests that a 40 percent drop in carbon dioxide concentrations in the ancient atmosphere was the driving force that led to the formation of the Antarctic ice sheet. In a span of 100,000 years, the whole region around the South Pole was transformed. At this point, science can’t tell us what made the carbon dioxide levels drop. That’s the next question that needs to be investigated. But it’s crystal clear that climate is a dicey business, one from which we should expect change in both specific regions and all over the globe. We may not like how fragile Earth’s climate looks. But the more we know about even natural climate evolutions, the more it seems clear change is in the cards. Dr. E. Kirsten Peters, a native of the rural Northwest, was trained as a geologist at Princeton and Harvard universities. Follow her online at rockdoc.wsu.edu and on Twitter @RockDocWSU. This column is a service of the College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences at Washington State University. ACCEPTING BIDS Delton Kellogg Schools is accepting bids for HARDWOOD FLOORS in the 2010-2012 building trades house. Bids must be received by 2:30 p.m. on Friday, February 10, 2012. Send written proposal to Paul Blacken, Superintendent, Delton Kellogg Schools, 327 N. Grove Street, Delton, MI 49046. Visit our website: www.dkschools.org for the required forms to place your bid. Contact Rollie Ferris by phone at 269-998-1664 or rferris@dkschools.org for more information. 07592119 City of Hastings REQUEST FOR BIDS Sale of 1995 Ford F-800 Dump Truck The City of Hastings will accept bids for the sale of one (1) 1995 Ford F-800 Dump Truck. This vehicle will be sold as is, without warranty of any kind, and has approximately 70,800 miles on it. Arrangements to view this vehicle can be made by calling 945-2468 weekdays between the hours of 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM. The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in any bid, and to award the bid in a manner that the City deems to be in its best interest, price and other factors considered. Bids will be received at the office of the Hastings City Clerk/Treasurer, 201 East State Street, Hastings, MI 49058 until 9:30 AM on Tuesday, February 21, 2012 at which time they shall be opened and read aloud. The winning bid, if any, will be approved at the City Council meeting on February 27, 2012. Winning bidder must be prepared to take possession with certified funds between February 29 and March 6, 2012. No formal bidding forms or documents are required, but all bids must be in writing and sealed. All sealed bids must be clearly marked on the outside of the bid package as follows: “SEALED BID – 1995 Ford F-800 Dump Truck”. Thomas E. Emery City Clerk/Treasurer 77565645 It’s Super Bowl time again. And whether you’re a sports fan or not, you can probably learn something from the Super Bowl teams that you can apply to other endeavors — such as investing. What might these lessons be? Take a look: • Pick players carefully. Super Bowl teams don’t usually get there out of luck; they’ve made it in part because they have carefully chosen their players. And to potentially achieve success as an investor, you, too, need carefully chosen “players” — investments that are chosen for your individual situation. • Choose a diversified mix of players. Not only do Super Bowl teams have good players, but they have good ones at many different positions — and these players tend to play well together. As an investor, you should own a variety of investments with different capabilities — such as stocks for growth and bonds for income — and your various investments should complement, rather than duplicate, one another. Strive to build a diversified portfolio containing investments appropriate for you situation, such as stocks, bonds, government securities, certificates of deposit (CDs) and other vehicles. Diversifying your holdings may help reduce the effects of market volatility. (Keep in mind, though, that diversification, by itself, can’t guarantee a profit or protect against loss.) • Follow a “game plan.” Super Bowl teams are skilled at creating game plans designed to maximize their own strengths and exploit their opponents’ weaknesses. When you invest, you also can benefit from a game plan — a strategy to help you work toward your goals. This strategy may incorporate several elements, such as taking full advantage of your Individual Retirement Account (IRA) take a few tips from the teams that have made it to the Big Game. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 28.40 +.12 AT&T 29.41 -.68 BP PLC 45.91 +1.21 CMS Energy Corp 21.83 +.22 Coca-Cola Co 67.53 -.37 Eaton 49.03 +.22 Family Dollar Stores 55.80 -.49 Fifth Third Bancorp 13.01 -.40 Flowserve CP 110.17 +2.46 Ford Motor Co. 12.42 -.40 General Mills 39.83 -.27 General Motors 24.02 -.77 Intel Corp. 26.42 -.48 Kellogg Co. 49.52 -.98 McDonald’s Corp 99.05 +.30 Pfizer Inc. 21.40 -.26 Ralcorp 87.45 +1.63 Sears Holding 42.14 -3.64 Spartan Motors 6.07 +.40 Spartan Stores 18.74 +.44 Stryker 55.43 +2.49 TCF Financial 10.04 -.53 Walmart Stores 61.36 -.03 Gold $1739.48 +74.63 Silver $33.16 +1.15 Dow Jones Average 12,632 -43 Volume on NYSE 976M +280M Benefit concert Saturday will feature local performers by Doug VanderLaan Editor After attending a musical revue in their favorite destination of Chicago, Steve Youngs remembers well his late wife Mary’s suggestion that they try to do something similar in their hometown of Hastings. A year later, with the help of some talented musical friends and their own gift for music, the Youngses pulled off a musical night to remember as a benefit for the Community Music School in Hastings, for which Steve served as coordinator. GROUNDS MAINTENANCE BIDS The Township of Prairieville is currently accepting bids for Prairieville Township Hall, Prairieville Cemetery, and Cressey Cemeteries Ground Maintenance. Those interested, please inquire at the Prairieville Township Hall, 10115 S. Norris Road, Delton, MI 49046. Contact Jill Owens, Township Clerk, (269) 623-2664. 77565639 Deadline: 2/16/12 SEXTON BIDS The Township of Prairieville is currently accepting bids for Prairieville and Cressey Cemeteries’ Sexton. Those interested, please inquire at the Prairieville Township Hall, 10115 S. Norris Road, Delton, MI 49046. Contact Jill Owens, Township Clerk, (269) 77565641 623-2664. Deadline: 2/16/12 STANDING TIMBER SALE NOTICE BARRY COUNTY ROAD COMMISSION Notice is hereby given that sealed bids will be received at the Barry County Road Commission for standing timber on one parcel owned by the Commission. For detailed information on the site location and specifications, contact the Barry County Road Commission, 1725 W. M-43 Hwy., P.O. Box 158, Hastings, MI 49058; 269-945-3449. Bids must be received by 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 21, 2012. The right to reject any or all bids is reserved. 77565497 and your 401(k) or other employer-sponsored retirement plan, pursuing new investment opportunities as they arise and reviewing your portfolio regularly to make sure it’s still appropriate for your needs. • Stay dedicated to your goals. Virtually all Super Bowl teams have had to overcome obstacles, such as injuries, bad weather and a tough schedule. But through persistence and a constant devotion to their ultimate goal, they persevere. As an investor, you’ll face some challenges, too, such as political and economic turmoil that can upset the financial markets. But if you own a diversified mix of quality investments and follow a long-term strategy that’s tailored to your objectives, time horizon and risk tolerance, you can keep moving forward, despite the “bumps in the road” that all investors face. • Get good coaching. Super Bowl teams typically are well-coached, with disciplined head coaches and innovative offensive and defensive coordinators. When you’re trying to achieve many financial goals — such as a comfortable retirement, control over your investment taxes and a legacy to leave to your family — you, too, can benefit from strong “coaching.” As your “head coach,” you might choose a financial professional — someone who can help you identify your goals and recommend an appropriate investment strategy to help you work toward them. And your financial professional can coordinate activities with your other “coaches,” such as your tax and legal advisors. Unless you’re a professional football player, you won’t ever experience what it’s like to play in the Super Bowl. However, achieving your financial goals can be a fairly big event in your life — and to help work toward that point, you can Six years later, the revue has attained some considerable notoriety, though Steve still prefers to think of it as a get-together of people who just love music and though the benefit focus has changed after Mary’s death at 56 from a premature heart attack following that first concert in 2006. This year’s annual revue Saturday, Feb. 4, at Hastings First United Methodist Church will celebrate the music of California and Mary’s memory by using funds raised through a freewill offering to benefit the Mary Youngs Scholarship Fund. “Chicago ain’t got nothin’ on Barry County,” quips Steve as he finishes production on this year’s show. His assessment is spot on in accuracy, according to those who have attended past shows. “The only complaint we ever get,” says Youngs, “is from people who say later that they wished they had attended the show.” Anyone with an eye toward the spring season will be happy to be in this year’s audience, for the concert will feature West Coast songs performed by nearly 20 local musicians and a couple of noted musical groups. Among the expected contingent will be Michigan Lt. Gov. Brian Calley who’ll be using his voice and the piano keyboard on Neil Diamond’s rendition of “Sweet Caroline,” Matt Nathanson’s “Faster” and “Desperado” by The Eagles. Calley, a former high school chorus and musical singer, joined the cast while serving as state representative of the 87th District. His successor, Mike Callton, is following the musical footsteps laid down in the legislative district with his hot riffs on the harmonica. Callton will headline Ritchie Valens’ “La Bamba” and will be backed up by Beth Lepak’s violin on “Surfer Girl” by the Beach Boys. Among the other entertainers will be: • Doug Acker singing “People are Strange” and “Somebody to Love.” • Maggie Doherty performing “You Light Up My Life.” • The Fish Headz doing “Wipe Out” and “California Sun.” • Jenny Gidley singing “Blue Bayou.” • Larry Gidley on “San Francisco.” • Gene Greenfield performing “Da Doo Ron Ron,” “I’m Gonna Be Strong” and “Hotel California” • Fred Jacobs singing “Donna.” • Maiden Voyage performing “Turn, Turn, Turn” and “You’re No Good.” • Steven Maurer and Patricia Garber singing “I Got You Babe.” • Erin Merritt on “California Dreaming,” “The River,” and, with Jim James, “Feels Like Rain.” • Chase Youngs performing “Dock of the Bay.” • Steve Youngs singing “Act Naturally.” The entire cast will kick off the evening with “Barbara Ann” and put on the finishing touch with “Surfin’ USA.” This year’s event as always, will have no admission charge but a freewill offering to benefit the Mary Youngs Scholarship Fund will be taken. The scholarship fund, which awards college tuition money to students who have excelled academically, athletically, and musically in high school, has reached the $11,000 funding level. Its goal is to reach a level from which it can fund two annual scholarships of $2,000. Cash gifts are welcome, though checks made out to the Barry Community Foundation or to First United Methodist Church of Hastings will also be accepted. Keep your friends and relatives INFORMED! Send them The BANNER To subscribe, call us at... 269-945-9554 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 2, 2012 — Page 9 News from Banner 1921 by M.L. Cook And now comes Earl McKibbin of Carlton, and he has something to tell us, according to the Banner of July 7, 1921. Up to the day of the occurrence of the story we will now tell, Earl had laughed whenever Carter’s Snake was mentioned. He didn’t believe there was any such animal. He doesn’t say that now. For one day last week he saw a 12-foot snake in the hayfield on his father’s Carlton farm, near Middle Lake. The story he tells is this: He was in cutting hay in a lot back of the barn. He had worked several hours cutting hay with a mowing machine, drawn by a span of horses. He had turned the corner, and was cutting the grass on the side of the field when his horses snorted and suddenly started to turn in the opposite direction. He jumped from the mower seat and grabbed the two horses by the bits and stopped them. Then he looked in the direction he had been going to see what frightened the animals. He saw, just a few rods away, lying on the cut grass, apparently sunning himself, for he was stretched out at full length and motionless, the largest snake he had ever seen. The largest snake Earl had previously seen was about six feet long. The one he saw sunning himself was twice that long, and black in color. Earl tied his team near the barn, hurried to the house, got a shotgun and plenty of loaded shells, then returned to the field to shoot the snake. His wife followed him to the field. When he returned, the snake was moving through the uncut grass. They both saw the snake raise its head about two feet about the uncut hay, as if to see what was going on. The snake was too far away to shoot at. Earl hurried to the spot where he had seen it, but it had vanished. Earl is not prepared to say that the huge snake he saw was the Carter serpent. But he says he was a “whopper,” and must be the descendant or a relative of the Carter Lake Snake. He said he had been asked why he did not go after the reptile with a club or with stones. He says no one who saw that snake would dare to depend on such weapons. He would need a shotgun and plenty of shells to feel safe in attacking it. The original Carter’s Lake Snake was occasionally seen on the cemetery road, which the reptile would cross on its way from Carter Lake to the river, or in the Riverside or McElwain Cemetery. Or it would be on or near North Broadway, not far from the stream that flows from Middle Lake Leach, and the Twin Lakes into Carter Lake. The McKibbin farm is near Middle Lake, which the big snake could easily reach, since it is connected with Carter Lake by a small stream. Hale Kenyon last year demonstrated, while driving north of town, that it was possible to tip over his car and smash it and hurt the driver. As chairman of the Barry County Road Commission, he has to do a lot of driving over our roads. So he felt he ought to demonstrate that is is possible to tip over the his car, without harm to the car or driver. He did it, too, on the new gravel road near Carlton Center one day last week. His car struck loose gravel. Over it went, and he was in it. But car and Hale were not harmed this time. – Banner July 14, 1921. Says the Banner of July 21: Dr. Keller wished to see someone at Hastings Point, Gun Lake. He left his car just outside the grounds without setting the brakes. He did not anticipate the severe windstorm that came up, blew his car several feet from where he left it, and slammed it into a tree, making costly repairs necessary. We can hardly realize now what the Banner of July 21, 1921, mentions about Gypsies. Then these thieving marauders drove in highpriced, speedy automobiles and could raid rural areas and get away in a hurry. That Banner tells of a gang of 20 or 30 of these vagabonds, in five fine Packard cars. They stopped first in Hickory Corners. The merchants locked their stores and would not let them enter, so they went on to Delton. The women stole from the stores there, until an officer appeared. Then they drove on to Cloverdale. The leader in his car went beyond that village and drove to the home of Mr. Gibson. He paid Gibson 50 cents for the privilege of driving his car into a field. Then he got word to the other four cars, whose drivers also entered the Gibson field. They created a great volume of noise. Gibson protested, but they kept on. Finally Gibson phoned to Sheriff Burd, and he came and drove them out of the county. Why these thieving, abominable creatures were allowed to come into this state is beyond us. Later, ways were found to keep them out of Michigan. Dr. Albert Eychleshymer, who grew up in this locality and graduated from our city schools, says the Banner of July 28, 1921, is now the dean of the Medical College of the Illinois University. That institution is located in Champaign, Ill., but its Medical Schools is in Chicago. Doctor Eycleshymer’s many friends here are pleased with the fine progress he has made in his profession. The body of Harry Robinson was found in a pond on the farm of Charlie Moore in Rutland Township on Tuesday. It had been in the water for some time. It was positively identified at the coroner’s inquest. Indications pointed to murder as the cause of death. The officers soon became satisfied that Frank Soules was guilty of the crime. He stoutly denied it until Sheriff Burd revealed to him the evidence, the officers had found, Soules admitted his guilt, and signed a confession. Robinson was a porter at the Parker House. Soules had no steady job. The two seemed to be very good friends, often going fishing, riding to some lake or stream in Robinson’s Ford car. Soules admitted that he slew Robinson to obtain his car, which was found where Soules had concealed it. Particulars of this crime were given in the Banner of Aug. 4, 1921. The Hastings Table Co. and the Bookcase Co. both report good sales of their products at the Grand Rapids Furniture Exhibition, which is now closing, according to the Aug. 4 issue of the Banner. The Banner of Aug. 28, 1921, tells of the visit to this city of the New York Central’s first train – the DeWitt Clinton train. It stopped in Hastings for nearly an hour. The little wood-burning engine and very small cars comprised that famous train, which ran on the New York Central line between Buffalo and New York in 1831. There has been a big improvement in passenger trains in the past 90 years. There was a large crowd at the depot to see and inspect the train. The Banner of Aug. 28 that year announces that the state utilities commission had granted the Citizens Telephone Co. increased rates. The increase will not apply to Hastings, because rates here were increased when automatic phones were installed here. Hastings is getting the same rates as other West Michigan cities. Says the Banner of Sept. 1, 1921: Most everyone in Hastings knows Charley Brown, who worked in the Banner office for many years. He is now living in Chicago, and has become a successful salesman for printing presses. He has been given a fine promotion, which carries a splendid salary. He has been chosen as head of the Chicago office of the Duplex Printing Press Co., the largest makers of printing presses in the west, and one of the largest in the world. The Banner of Sept. 1, 1921, says that the people of this city and county do not appreciate as they should what a beautiful stream is available for scenic canoe rides which the Thornapple River affords them. The Banner of Sept. 1, 1921, contains a letter, written to Henry Crockford, of Carlton, Sept. 16, 1881, by his brother John, describing a struggle John had with a grizzly bear while hunting in Montana, near the source of the Missouri River. I am certain Banner readers will say it is interesting. When John first went west, he located in Nebraska, but later moved to Montana, because he loved to hunt. He went out one day and suddenly came upon the big bear and shot him. But the shot was not immediately fatal and the bear rushed at him, clawed and bit him so severely that he later died. John’s letter reads as follows: Jefferson River, Montana September 16, 1881 Dear brother and sister: I am propped up in bed, and take my pen in hand to write you a few lines. Julia and the baby are well. I am not. I was tackled night before last by a big grizzly bar, and badly torn up. I am crippled in my left thigh, the leg being nearly torn off. My face and one hand are also badly torn. I tackled him first. I was hunting grizzlies, and tracked one into a thicket. All at once, a big one rose up on his haunches, not more than 10 feet away. He sat up and looked at me, but did not offer to hunt me until I shot him. I finally tore away from him and crawled into the river, and he did not follow. I was two miles from my wagon, and had an awful time to get back. Two men are going to hunt for the dead bear. I am sure I killed him, or I never would have gotten away. I was no more in his paws than a mouse is when a cat gets one in its paws. He was so weak that he reeled when he was on top of me. O Henry! What place I was in. I prayed and fought awful hard. I am in such awful pain. I can’t tell you where to write, for I don’t know. I am on the way to the Yellowstone River to hunt buffalo, but I guess that is played out now. If you will direct it to Butte City, Montana I will get it, for I am going to send there for my mail. Good Bye, John Crockford Three days after, Henry received the above letter, a second one came from John. He was still in bed, and said the two men found the dead grizzly, and brought it to the place where his camp wagon was stationed. It was an enormous bear, weighing over 700 pounds. John never reached the Yellowstone River. Blood poisoning set in, and he died not long after the second letter was written. The Banner of Sept. 22, 1921, has a twocolumn picture of Chester Messer. It was part of the announcement of his death, which occurred on the previous Saturday. He was past 79. The people of Hastings will never realize, probably, how much this city owes to Chester Messer and his brother Richard. The two brothers and Dan W. Reynolds were engaged in the business of selling agricultural implements here. They were the two wealthiest men in this city, and could have continued in the same business, for both, and added to their assets, for both were good salesmen, and men of sound business judgement. [The people of the city and county did learn how much the Messers meant to the area after a change in IRS tax law revealed that more than $300,000 from Richard Messer’s trust fund be distributed to Barry County nonprofit agencies. Richard Messer died Dec. 29, 1926. He left a trust fund “to aid and assist in the care, maintenance, and education of such needy children... and residents of Barry County, as may be recommended to them by the probate judge of said county.” Banner July 9, 2009] Walk for Warmth returns Feb. 25 In one of the longest-running traditions of its type, the 27th annual Walk for Warmth will return to Barry County on Sat., Feb. 25 when walkers committed to helping needy families move toward a warm and secure future will use their efforts to raise awareness and financial support for programs sponsored by the Community Action Agency. With the help of generous donors, Community Action’s Annual Walk for Warmth makes it possible for low income, elderly, and disabled families and individuals to stay warm during the cold winter months through its emergency utility assistance program. For every $3,000 raised, Community Action will be able to help ten local families stay safe in their homes. Participants can help by forming a team, recruiting friends and coworkers, collecting pledges, and walking in the Hastings Walk for Warmth on February 25. Businesses can sponsor the Walk for Warmth in one of two ways: through a monetary donation, or donating goods or services towards participant door prizes. Participants will find Walk for Warmth to be a fun, safe, and festive occasion. There will be opportunities for walkers to win door prizes, eat healthy snacks, and socialize with other community members – all while helping their family, friends, and neighbors in need. Community Action is a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) human service organization that serves low- to moderate- income, elderly, and disabled residents of Barry, Branch, Calhoun and St. Joseph counties. Community Action is Community Action Agency Board members eagerly planning for the Feb. 25 Walk for Warmth are (from left) Angena Morris, Nancy Percival, Jeff VanNortwick, Terry Langston, Rick Shaffer and Jerry Hubbard. dedicated to promoting economic and social opportunities that help people achieve greater independence, dignity and self-sufficiency. Community Action has worked tirelessly since its beginning in 1966 to break the cycle of poverty and move toward a future where families aren’t faced with difficult living decisions. Walk for Warmth is a key part of that effort. For more information, please visit the Community Action website at www.caascm.org or contact the Community Action office at 1-877-422-2726. Say Happy Valentine’s Day with personalized photo cards! Stop in and look over our selection of sizes, designs and formats... or let us create something special for YOU! ❤ Order Prints ❤ Stylize Photos ❤ Create Gifts ❤ ...all from the convenience of your home with our powerful editing, cropping, framing, customizing software. IT’S EASY! Go to: www.hastingsreminder.com Click the Printing Plus icon and you’re ready to go! – Size 4”x 6” – CUSTOM VALENTINE CARDS! 25 Cards ......................$9.75 50 Cards ....................$14.50 Extra Cards: ...........25¢ each Call us for all your printing needs! 1351 N.Broadway (M-43) Hastings 269.945.9105 OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:00 - 5:30 Create Your Own 8.5x11 CUSTOM CALENDARS A gift to enjoy all year long as low as 19 $ 95 Check out all our Special Services: • Business Cards • Color Copies • Photo Books • BIG Prints & Posters • Folding & Laminating • Custom Rubber Stamps • Plastic Binding and much more! each �Page 10 — Thursday, February 2, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES SYNOPSIS PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP Budget Workshop Meeting January 17, 2012 Supervisor J. Stoneburner called the meeting to order at 2:00 p.m. Members present: Supervisor Stoneburner, Clerk Owens, Treasurer McGuire, Supervisor Stoneburner, Trustee Goebel, and Trustee Grundy. Members absent: none There were 2 public present. Pledge of allegiance and a moment of silence for our troops. Agenda was approved. Minutes was approved. Public Comments: None. Police budget discussed. Fire budget discussed. Approved to increase Election Budget by 101262-702.000 $1200.00,101-262-730.000 $ 200.00, 101-262-740.000 $ 200.00, 101-262-811.000 $ 790.00, 101-262-814.000 $ 200.00, 101-262860.000 $ 120.00, 101-262-900.000 $ 82.00, 101-262-956.000 $ 125.00 for a total of $2917.00 to bring balance of Election Department to $5970.00. Board comments were received. Public comments: None Meeting adjourned at 4:10 p.m. Submitted by: Jill Owens, Clerk Attested to by: 77565633 Jim Stoneburner, Supervisor SYNOPSIS PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP Budget Workshop Meeting January 23, 2012 Supervisor J. Stoneburner called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m. Members present: Township Board/Clerk Owens, Treasurer McGuire, Supervisor Stoneburner, Trustee Goebel, and Trustee Grundy. Parks Board/Kathryn Goebel and Gerald Labrecque. Also present was Tyler Brownell, Parks Manager Members absent: Jennifer Vanoverloop, Becky Kahler and Emily Wilke There were approximate 0 public present. Pledge of allegiance and a moment of silence for our troops. Agenda was approved. Minutes was approved. Public Comments: None. Becky Kahler and Emily Wilke arrived at 6:05 pm Discussion of Parks Budget Board comments were received. Public comments: None Meeting adjourned at 6:55 p.m. Submitted by: Jill Owens, Clerk Attested to by: 77565637 Jim Stoneburner, Supervisor NOTICE PURSUANT TO MCL 600.3205a(4) NOTICE is hereby provided to Brian Hannan, the borrowers and/or mortgagors (hereinafter "Borrower") regarding the property located at: 714 S Hanover St, Hastings, MI 49058-2315. The Borrower has the right to request a meeting with the mortgage holder or mortgage servicer. The agent designated by the Mortgage Servicer and/or Mortgage Holder to contact and that has authority to make agreements under MCL sections 600.3205b and 600.3205c is: Trott & Trott, P.C., 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200, Farmington Hills, MI 48334-2525 at (248) 593-1301 The Borrower may contact a housing counselor by visiting the Michigan State Housing Development Authority's website or by calling the Michigan State Housing Development Authority at http:// www.michigan.gov/mshda or at (866) 946-7432. If the Borrower requests a meeting with the agent designated above by contacting an approved housing counselor within 14 days from January 31, 2012, foreclosure proceedings will not be commenced until 90 days after January 31, 2012. If the Borrower and the agent designated above reach an agreement to modify the mortgage loan, the mortgage will not be foreclosed if the Borrower abides by the terms of the agreement. The Borrower has the right to contact an attorney. The telephone number of the State Bar of Michigan's Lawyer Referral Service is (800) 9680738. THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. Date: February 2, 2012 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer and/or Mortgage Holder 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334-2525 File # 372178F01 77565649 (02-02) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Joan Patricia Leos, a Single Woman, original mortgagor(s), to Lansing Automakers Federal CU, Mortgagee, dated August 27, 2002, and recorded on September 6, 2002 in instrument 1086940, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Four Thousand Four Hundred Seventy-Four and 97/100 Dollars ($84,474.97), including interest at 6.99% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on February 16, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Woodland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 7 and 8 of Block 9 of the Village of Woodland, according to the recorded Plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #383088F01 77565235 (01-19)(02-09) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Mark R Nelson and Amy J Nelson, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated February 10, 2004, and recorded on February 13, 2004 in instrument 1122208, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Central Mortgage Company as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Seven Thousand Seventy-Nine and 26/100 Dollars ($87,079.26), including interest at 3.625% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on February 9, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Woodland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at a point 96 feet 8 inches West of the Northeast corner of Section 21, Town 4 North, Range 7 West, for the place of beginning; thence running South 58 feet 9 inches; thence East 7 feet 8 inches; thence running North 1 foot; thence running East 11 feet; thence running South 10 and 1/2 Rods; thence West 9 and 1/2 feet ; thence South 4 Rods and 8 and 1/2 feet; thence West 7 Rods and 11 feet; thence North 18 Rods and 8 and 1/2 feet; thence East 7 Rods and 2 feet and 4 inches to the place of beginning. Except a parcel of land in the Northeast 1/4 of Section 21, Town 4 North, Range 7 West, described as: Commencing 96 feet 8 inches West of the Northeast corner of Section 21; thence South 58 feet 9 inches; thence East 7 feet 8 inches thence North 1 foot; thence East 11 feet; thence South 141 feet 1 inch for the place of beginning; thence South 32 feet 2 inch; thence West 9 feet 6 inches; thence South 74 feet 6 inches; thence West 126 feet 6 inches; thence North 106 feet 8 inches; thence East 136 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #355709F02 (01-12)(02-02) 77564349 77565068 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTENTION PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain Mortgage made between JACK L. REFFETT, a single man, whose address is 120 Delaware, Westville, Illinois 61883, as Mortgagor, and ICNB MORTGAGE COMPANY, L.L.C., a Michigan limited liability company, whose address is 302 West Main Street, Ionia, Michigan 48846, as Mortgagee, dated January 8, 2007, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on January 12, 2007, in Document No. 1174919, upon which Mortgage is claimed to be due at the date of this notice the sum of SEVENTYSIX THOUSAND SEVEN HUNDRED FORTY-TWO 12/100 ($76,742.12) DOLLARS, and no suit or proceedings at law or equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said Mortgage, or any part thereof; NOW, THEREFORE, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said Mortgage, and pursuant to the statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on February 16, 2012, at 1:00 p.m., said Mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction to the highest bidder at the Barry County Courthouse, 220 West State Street, Hastings, County of Barry, Michigan (that being the building where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held) of the premises described in said Mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due of said Mortgage, with interest thereon at 6.5% per annum, and all legal costs, expenses and charges, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sums which may be paid by the undersigned to protect its interest in the premises, which said premises are described as follows: Land situated in the City of Hastings, County of Barry and State of Michigan, to-wit: The South 1/2 of Lots 19 and 20, Block 13, of Kenfield’s 2nd Addition to the City of Hastings, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats on Page 37, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be thirty (30) days from the date of such sale. ICNB MORTGAGE COMPANY, L.L.C. Mortgagee Dated this 12th day of January, 2012. TIMOTHY L. CURTISS, Esq. Braun Kendrick Finkbeiner P.L.C. 304 East Broadway, Suite 206 Mt. Pleasant, Michigan 48858 77565295 989/775-7404 SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT 248-539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. INITIAL FORECLOSURE NOTICE AS REQUIRED BY MICHIGAN PUBLIC ACT 30 OF 2009. Notice is hereby provided to James W. Sutherland, the borrowers and/or mortgagors (hereinafter “Borrower”) regarding the property known as 3311 EAST M-43 HIGHWAY, HASTINGS, MI 49058 that the mortgage is in default. The Borrower has the right to request a meeting with the mortgage holder or mortgage servicer through its designated agent, Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. (“Designated Agent”), 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300, Farmington Hills, Michigan 48335, 248-5397400 (Tel), 248-539-7401 (Fax), email: designatedagent@sspclegal.com. James W. Sutherland also has/have the right to contact the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (“MSHDA”) at its website www.michigan.gov/mshda or by calling MSHDA at (866) 946-7432 (Tel). If Borrower(s) requests a meeting, no foreclosure proceeding will be commenced until the expiration of 90 days from the date Notice was mailed to the Borrower(s) pursuant to Section 3205(a) of HB 4454, Public Act 30 of 2009. If Designated Agent and Borrower(s) agree to modify the mortgage, the mortgage will not be foreclosed if the Borrower(s) abide by the terms of the modified mortgage. Borrower(s) have the right to contact an attorney or the State Bar of Michigan Lawyer Referral Service at (800) 968-0738 (Tel). Pub Date: February 2, 2012 SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48335 GMAC.008493 77565559 (02-02) SYNOPSIS PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP Regular Meeting January 11, 2012 Supervisor J. Stoneburner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Present: Supervisor J. Stoneburner, Clerk J. Owens, Treasurer K. McGuire, Trustee R. Goebel, and Trustee J. Grundy. Absent: None Also present were 8 guests. Pledge of allegiance and a moment of silence for our troops. Agenda was approved. Minutes were presented to the Board and approved. Correspondence: None Commissioners’ report was submitted and reviewed. No Public Comments. Fire Departments report was placed on file. Police Department report was placed on file. Supervisor Report was received. Treasurer Report was received. Clerks Report was received. Approved to pay Barry Township $1,858.00 and Hickory Corners $2,238.00 for a total of $4,096.00 for fire department labor. Approve to pay Township bills for $40,572.34. Moved that Prairieville Township Board does not want the South West Barry County Sewer Authority to fund the Barry Township Fair Lake money shortfall. Approved to close the office on January 26, 2012 so the staff can attend the MTA conference. Ted DeVries donated a stove to the township. The TOPS ladies donated 6 chairs to the township; the board thanks DeVries and the TOPS ladies for their donation and greatly appreciates their donation. Budget Meetings: 1/17/2012 2:00 PM - Police & Fire;1/19/2012 2:00 PM – Road;1/23/2012 6:00 PM – Parks Joint Meeting;1/24/2012 2:00 PM – General Info Public comments were received. Board comments were received. Meeting adjourned at 7:58 p.m. Submitted by: Jill Owens, Clerk Attested to by: 77565631 Jim Stoneburner, Supervisor FORECLOSURE NOTICE RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES, P.C. MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. Mortgage Sale - Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by Katherine J Niles, and Jeremiah A Niles, wife and husband to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. acting solely as a nominee for Countrywide Home Loans Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 19, 2004, and recorded on May 3, 2004, as Document Number: 1126789, Barry County Records, said mortgage was assigned to Bank of America, N.A. successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing L.P FKA COUNTRYWIDE HOME LOANS SERVICING LP by an Assignment of Mortgage dated October 05, 2011 and recorded October 17, 2011 by Document Number: 201110170009725, , on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Four Thousand Nine Hundred Eighty-One and 31/100 ($134,981.31) including interest at the rate of 5.75000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the Circuit Court in said Barry County, where the premises to be sold or some part of them are situated, at 01:00 PM on February 23, 2012 Said premises are situated in the Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: COMMENCING AT A POINT ON THE NORTH LINE OF SECTION 2, TOWN 3 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST, ON THE WESTERLY LINE OF HIGHWAY M-37 FOR POINT OF BEGINNING, THENCE WEST 1042.5 FEET ON SAID SECTION LINE, THENCE SOUTH 175 FEET, THENCE EAST PARALLEL WITH THE NORTH LINE OF SECTION 2, TO THE WESTERLY LINE OF HIGHWAY M-37, THENCE NORTHWESTERLY ALONG WESTERLY HIGHWAY LINE OF M-37 TO PLACE OF BEGINNING. Commonly known as: 1993 N M37 HWY The redemption period shall be 12.00 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or 15 days after statutory notice, whichever is later. Dated: January 26, 2012 Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Bank of America, N.A. successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing L.P FKA COUNTRYWIDE HOME LOANS SERVICING LP 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 (248) 335-9200 Case No. 11MI02070-1 (01-26)(02-16) 77565502 SYNOPSIS PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP Budget Workshop Meeting January 19, 2012 Supervisor J. Stoneburner called the meeting to order at 2:00 p.m. Members present: Clerk Owens, Treasurer McGuire, Supervisor Stoneburner, Trustee Goebel, and Trustee Grundy. Members absent: Supervisor Stoneburner (arrived at 2:20PM) There were 0 public present. Pledge of allegiance and a moment of silence for our troops. Agenda was approved. Minutes was approved. Public Comments: None. Road Funds budget discussed. General fund income was discussed. Approved to extend the appointment of Chuck Sage to Planning Commission to 1/1/15. Approved to extend the appointment of Ken Eddy to Planning Commission 1/1/15. Approved to waive the ZBA fees for the Harpers at a special ZBA meeting that will be announced at a later date. Millages that end 2012 were discussed. The contract for Hickory Corner Fire Department was discussed. Board comments were received. Public comments: None Meeting adjourned at 3:55 p.m. Submitted by: Jill Owens, Clerk Attested to by: Jim Stoneburner, Supervisor 77565635 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 11-26013-DE Estate of KARTER POST. Date of birth: September 26, 2003. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, KARTER POST, died DECEMBER 1, 2010. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to MARY ROBINSON, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 WEST COURT, SUITE 302, HASTINGS, MI 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 1/24/12 NATHAN E. TAGG P68994 206 SOUTH BROADWAY HASTINGS, MI 49058 (269) 948-2900 MARY ROBINSON 10451 KELLER ROAD DELTON, MI 49046 77565550 (269) 623-8175 NOTICE PURSUANT TO MCL 600.3205a(4) NOTICE is hereby provided to Matthew Bourdo and Lucy Bourdo, the borrowers and/or mortgagors (hereinafter "Borrower") regarding the property located at: 11503 9 Mile Rd, Plainwell, MI 490809236. The Borrower has the right to request a meeting with the mortgage holder or mortgage servicer. The agent designated by the Mortgage Servicer and/or Mortgage Holder to contact and that has authority to make agreements under MCL sections 600.3205b and 600.3205c is: Trott & Trott, P.C., 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200, Farmington Hills, MI 48334-2525 at (248) 593-1302 The Borrower may contact a housing counselor by visiting the Michigan State Housing Development Authority's website or by calling the Michigan State Housing Development Authority at http://www.michigan.gov/mshda or at (866) 9467432. If the Borrower requests a meeting with the agent designated above by contacting an approved housing counselor within 14 days from January 30, 2012, foreclosure proceedings will not be commenced until 90 days after January 30, 2012. If the Borrower and the agent designated above reach an agreement to modify the mortgage loan, the mortgage will not be foreclosed if the Borrower abides by the terms of the agreement. The Borrower has the right to contact an attorney. The telephone number of the State Bar of Michigan's Lawyer Referral Service is (800) 9680738. THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. Date: February 2, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer and/or Mortgage Holder 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334-2525 File # 241719F03 77565561 (02-02) THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Wade Kriekaard and Christina Kriekaard, husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Arbor Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated March 9, 2007 and recorded March 16, 2007 in Instrument Number 1177568, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by CitiMortgage, Inc. by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Three Hundred Twenty-Nine Thousand Five Hundred Seventeen and 40/100 Dollars ($329,517.40) including interest at 9.65% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on FEBRUARY 9, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Unit 8 of Romeyn Woods Condominium, a Condominium according to the Master Deed recorded in Liber 679 on Page 4 , and amendments thereto, and designated as Barry County Condominium Subdivision Plan Number 9, together with rights in general common elements and limited common elements as set forth in said Master Deed and as described in Act 59 of Public Acts of 1978, as amended. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: January 12, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 77565096 241.6275 (01-12)(02-02) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Michael J Dehaan, A Single Man, original mortgagor(s), to Broadmoor Financial Services, Inc., Mortgagee, dated October 10, 2003, and recorded on October 16, 2003 in instrument 1115720, and assigned by mesne assignments to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Forty Thousand Five Hundred Twenty-Six and 38/100 Dollars ($140,526.38), including interest at 5.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on February 23, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Northeast corner of the Northwest 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 22, Town 3 North, Range 10 West, Yankee Sprints Township, Barry County, Michigan: Thence West 710 feet along the North line of Section 22; thence South 00 degrees 11 minutes East 495 feet parallel with the West 1/8 line of said Section 22 for the place of beginning; thence East 710 feet parallel with the North line of said Section 22; thence South 00 degrees 11 East 325 feet along said West 1/8 line of Section 22; thence West 710 feet; thence North 00 degrees 11 minutes West 325 feet to the place of beginning. Together with a shared easement 33 feet in width for ingress and egress, the East line of which is described as; Beginning at the Southwest corner of above described parcel and running thence North 00 degrees 11 minutes West 820 feet to the North line of said Section 22 and the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #389055F01 (01-26)(02-16) 77565430 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Nathan McNabb, A Single Man, original mortgagor(s), to Cornerstone Home Loans, Mortgagee, dated December 6, 2007, and recorded on January 7, 2008 in instrument 20080107-0000195, and assigned by said Mortgagee to ABN AMRO Mortgage Group, Inc. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Six Thousand Five Hundred Sixty-Four and 94/100 Dollars ($76,564.94), including interest at 7% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 1, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The South 1/2 of Lots 1043 and 1044, except the West 3 feet of said Lot 1044 of the City, formerly Village of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded Plat therof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 2, 2012 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #385144F02 77565573 (02-02)(02-23) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 2, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES -SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by JOHN E. TRUMAN and KATHLIN J. TRUMAN, HUSBAND AND WIFE, to MORTGAGE PLUS OF AMERICA CORPORATION, Mortgagee, dated April 10, 2003, and recorded on April 17, 2003, in Document No. 1102257, and re-recorded on December 6, 2011 in Document No. 201112060011488 and assigned by said mortgagee to U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, as assigned,Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Eight Thousand Four Hundred Fifty-Two Dollars and Thirty Cents ($88,452.30), including interest at 6.000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on February 16, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: COMMENCING AT THE SOUTH 1 / 4 POST OF SECTION 28, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, HOPE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN; THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES 55 MINUTES 28 SECONDS WEST, 35.45 FEET TO THE EASTERLY LINE OF CORDES DRIVE, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT OF ROY K. CORDES SUBDIVISION AND ROY K. CORDES SUBDIVISION NO. 1 AS RECORDED IN LIBER 4 OF PLATS ON PAGE 14, AND LIBER 4 OF PLATS ON PAGE 49 RESPECTIVELY; THENCE THE FOLLOWING COURSES ALONG SAID EASTERLY LINE OF CORDES DRIVE TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING; NORTH 18 DEGREES 19 MINUTES 42 SECONDS WEST, 170.03 FEET; THENCE NORTH 01 DEGREES 05 MINUTES 03 SECONDS WEST, 432.77 FEET TO THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF SAID ROY K. CORDES SUBDIVISION NO. 1 AND THE POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE NORTH 01 DEGREES 05 MINUTES 34 SECONDS WEST, 124.92 FEET ALONG SAID EASTERLY LINE OF CORDES DRIVE; THENCE SOUTH 88 DEGREES 04 MINUTES 09 SECONDS EAST, 250.35 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 01 DEGREES 05 MINUTES 03 SECONDS EAST, 124.92 FEET; THENCE NORTH 88 DEGREES 04 MINUTES 09 SECONDS WEST, 250.35, FEET ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SAID ROY K. CORDES SUBDIVISION NO. 1 TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 USB.002476 (0177565334 19)(02-09) THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Melissa Hasty and Donald K. Hasty, Jr., husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Taylor, Bean and Whitaker Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated July 23, 2009 and recorded July 30, 2009 in Instrument Number 200907300007875, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by FDIC as Receiver for Colonial Bank by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Twenty-Eight Thousand Six Hundred Ninety-Six and 31/100 Dollars ($228,696.31) including interest at 5.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on FEBRUARY 23, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the Township of Hope, County of Barry, State of Michigan, is described as follows: That Part of the East 1/2, Northeast fractional 1/4, Section 4, Town 2 North, Range 9 West; described as: Beginning at the East 1/4 corner of said Section; thence North 88 degrees 59 minutes 27 seconds West 242.38 feet along the South line of said Northeast 1/4; thence North 00 degrees 21 minutes 32 seconds East 815.00 feet along the East line of the West 1075 feet of said East 1/2, Northeast 1/4; thence North 88 degrees 59 minutes 27 seconds West 250.00 feet; thence North 00 degrees 21 minutes 32 seconds East 492.53 feet; thence South 88 degrees 50 minutes 56 seconds East 493.30 feet, along the North line of the Southeast fractional 1/4 of said Northeast fractional 1/4; thence South 00 degrees 23 minutes 54 seconds West 1306.30 feet along the East line of said Section to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 12 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: January 26, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 426.3360 77565478 (01-26)(02-16) THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Scott D. Carrigan, a single man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for GMAC Mortgage Corporation its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated March 1, 2004 and recorded February 23, 2005 in Instrument Number 1141851, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by GMAC Mortgage, LLC by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Two Thousand Three Hundred Forty-Seven and 15/100 Dollars ($72,347.15) including interest at 5.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on FEBRUARY 16, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: All that parcel of land in Barry County, State of Michigan, as more fully described in Deed Instrument Number 1007094, Identification Number 08-03-028-061-00, being known and designated as: A parcel of land being on the East 1/2 of the Southwest one-quarter of Section 28, Town 1 North, Range 9 West, described as commencing at a point in the center of the highway 9 rods South of the center of Section 28; Running thence West 10 rods; Thence South 2 rods; Thence West 4 rods; Thence South 4 rods; Thence East 14 rods to the center of the highway; Thence North 6 rods along the center of the highway to the place of beginning, and containing 76 square rods of land. Also: A parcel of land commencing at a point 15 rods South of the center of Section 28, Town 1 North, Range 9 West ; Thence South 1 rod; Thence West 10 rods; Thence North 1 rod; Thence East 10 rods to the place of beginning. Also: a parcel of land commencing at a point 9 rods South and 10 rods West of the center of Section 28, Town 1 North, Range 9 West; Thence West 4 rods; Thence South 2 rods; Thence East 4 rods; Thence North 2 rods to the place of beginning. All being located on Section 28, Town 1 North, Range 9 West. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: January 19, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 2683 File No. 618.9889 77565253 (01-19)(02-09) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Jeffrey C. Milan and Jodie L. Milan Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 27, 2007, and recorded on May 3, 2007 in instrument 1180066, in Barry county records, Michigan, and assigned by said Mortgagee to PNMAC Mortgage Co., LLC as assignee, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Sixty-Six Thousand Nine Hundred Fifty-Five and 07/100 Dollars ($266,955.07), including interest at 8.9% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on February 9, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel C: A parcel of land located in the Northwest 1/4 of Section 35, Town 1 North, Range 10 West, and being more particularly described as follows: Commencing at the North 1/4 post of Section 35, Town 1 North, Range 10 West; thence South 00 degrees 50 minutes 29 seconds West along the North and South 1/4 line of said section 320.78 feet for the point of beginning of the parcel hereinafter described; thence continuing South 00 degrees 50 minutes 29 seconds West along the North and South 1/4 line of said section 333.94 feet; thence North 89 degrees 09 minutes 03 seconds West parallel with the South line of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of said Section 1317.49 feet; thence North 00 degrees 54 minutes 49 seconds East along the West line of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of said section (formerly referred to as "Norris Road") 333.94 feet; thence South 89 degrees 09 minutes 03 seconds East parallel with said South line 1317.07 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #360092F01 (01-12)(02-02) Case No. 11-466-CH Notice of Judicial Foreclosure Sale on a Default Judgment and Judgment of Foreclosure Against Defendants Teresa J. Lindsey, f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker and Shana Ciampa NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to the terms of a Default Judgment and Judgment of Foreclosure of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan signed and filed on January 17, 2012, in the case of Eaton Federal Savings Bank, Plaintiff v Teresa J. Lindsey, f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker and Shana Ciampa, Defendants, Case No. 11-466-CH, wherein, among other things, the Court allowed the foreclosure of a mortgage granted by Teresa J. Lindsey f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker (Mortgagor) to Eaton Federal Savings Bank on September 27, 2007 and recorded October 4, 2007 at Instrument No. 200710040002745, pages 1 through 10, Barry County Records, against the Mortgagor. Pursuant to the Default Judgment and Judgment for Foreclosure, the mortgaged premises shall be sold at a public auction by or under the direction of Clerk/Sheriff for the County of Barry to the highest bidder at the main entrance to the Barry County Courthouse, 220 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 on Thursday, March 22, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., local time. The following described “Mortgaged Premises”: Parcel 1: Lot 13 of Standley’s First Addition to Fine Lake Park, Johnstown Township, Barry County, Michigan, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, on Page 31, Also, beginning at the Southeast corner of Lot 13 of Standley’s First Addition to Fine Lake Park, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, on Page 31; thence North 26 degrees East along the Easterly line of Lots 13 and 14 of said Plat, 100.00 feet, thence South 82 degrees 54 minutes East 50.00 feet; thence South 26 degrees West, 100.00 feet; thence North 82 degrees 54 minutes West 50.00 feet to the point of beginning. Parcel 2: Beginning at the Southwest corner of Lot 8 of Fine Lake Park, Johnstown Township, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof; thence Northeasterly along the East Shore of Fine Lake to a point 10 feet from said place of beginning; thence Easterly to a point on the Easterly line of said Lot which is 3 feet North of the Southeast corner of said Lot; thence Southerly along the East line of said Lot to the Southeast corner thereof; thence Westerly along the South line of said Lot to the place of beginning. The Mortgaged Premises, whose address is 823 East Shore Drive, Battle Creek, Michigan, 49017, also include all right, title and interests held by Teresa J. Lindsey f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker as of September 27, 2007, in the Mortgaged Premises. The Premises may be redeemed during the six (6) months following the date of sale. BODMAN PLC By: Sandra L. Jasinski (P37430) Attorneys for Eaton Federal Savings Bank MORTGAGE SALE This is an attempt to collect a debt, and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by THOMAS H. CHASE, a single man, and SHIRLEY A. CHASE, a married woman, Mortgagors, to INDEPENDENT MORTGAGE CO. SOUTH MICHIGAN, Mortgagee, dated February 18, 2005 and recorded February 22, 2005 in Instrument #1141705 which was assigned to INDEPENDENT BANK of 4200 East Beltline, Grand Rapids, Michigan, by Assignment dated April 18, 2011 and recorded on April 20, 2011 in Instrument No. 201104200004350. By reason of such default the undersigned elects to declare the entire unpaid amount of said mortgage due and payable forthwith. At the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on said mortgage the sum of FIFTY THOUSAND EIGHT HUNDRED SIXTY SIX AND 48/100 ($50,866.48) dollars including interest at the rate of 4.125% per annum. No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided and to pay said amount with interest as provided in said mortgage, and all legal costs, charges, and expenses, including attorney fees allowed by law, said mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the east door of the Barry County Courthouse, the place of holding the Circuit Court within the County of Barry, City of Hastings, Michigan, on March 15, 2012, at 1:00 p.m., local time. Pursuant to Public Act No. 104, Public Acts of 1971 [MCLA 600.3240(8), MSA 27A.3240(8)] the redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of the foreclosure sale, unless the property is determined to be abandoned under MCLA 600.3241a; MSA 27A.3241(1), in which case the property may be redeemed during the 30 days immediately following the sale or expiration of statutory notice period. The premises covered by said mortgage are situated in the Township of Maple Grove, County of Barry, State of Michigan, described as follows, to wit: Commencing at the West 1/4 post of Section 23, Town 2 North, Range 7 West, Maple Grove Township, Barry County Michigan; thence South 40 rods for a place of beginning; thence North 130 feet; thence East 600 feet; thence South 130 feet; thence West 600 feet to the place of beginning. Together with an easement in common that is appurtenant thereto for purposes of ingress and egress thereto over premises described as: Commencing at the West 1/4 post of Section 23, Town 2 North, Range 7 West; thence South 40 rods; thence North 130 feet for a place of beginning; thence East 600 feet; thence North 33 feet; thence West 600 feet; thence South 33 feet to the place of beginning. The default and foreclosure proceedings include a 1992 Fairmont mobile home, serial #MY9385449A8, permanently affixed thereto, as evidenced by the Certificate of Mobile Home Title and recorded in Instrument #1141704. INDEPENDENT BANK, Assignee SCHENK, BONCHER & RYPMA Curtis D. Rypma P44421 601 Three Mile Road, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49544-1601 77565568 (616) 647-8277 77565391 77565055 229 Court Street, P.O. Box 405 Cheboygan, Michigan 49721 (231) 627-8000 Date: February 2, 2012 Dates of publication: February 2, 9, 16, 23, March 1, 8 and 15, 2012. 77565541 THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Elaina M. Garrison, an unmarried woman, to Fifth Third Mortgage - MI, LLC, Mortgagee, dated August 1, 2006 and recorded August 7, 2006 in Instrument Number 1168236, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Fifth Third Mortgage Company by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Two Thousand Nine Hundred Sixty-Four and 98/100 Dollars ($82,964.98) including interest at 7.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on FEBRUARY 16, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The land referred to in this instrument, situated in the Village of Middleville, County of Barry, State of Michigan, is described as: Unit 6, East Town Homes, a Condominium according to the Master Deed recorded in Document Number 1074113, Barry County Records, as amended, and designated as Barry County Condominium Subdivision Plan Number 23, together with rights in the general common elements and the limited common elements as shown on the Master Deed and as described in Act 59 of the Public Acts of 1978, as amended. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: January 19, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 2683 File No. 200.8865 77565266 (01-19)(02-09) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by BRIAN M. SCHAEFER and SARA M. SCHAEFER, husband and wife (collectively, "Mortgagor"), to GREENSTONE FARM CREDIT SERVICES, FLCA, a federally chartered corporation, having an office at 3515 West Road, East Lansing, Michigan 48823 (the "Mortgagee"), dated March 29, 2006, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on March 30, 2006, as Instrument No. 1161954, as amended by an affidavit of correction dated March 1, 2007, recorded March 30, 2007, as Instrument No. 1178100, Barry County Records (the "Mortgage"). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgage Electronic Registration System (MERS) is not the sole foreclosing party. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Forty Four Thousand Thirty Six and 35/100 Dollars ($44,036.35). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public venue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 9th day of February, 2012, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the Township of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: A parcel of land in the Northwest 1/4 of Section 13, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, described as: Beginning at the North 1/4 corner of said Section 13; thence South 00°00'00" West, 544.50 feet along the North and South 1/4 line of said Section 13; thence North 89°24'35" West, 400.00 feet parallel with the North line of said Northwest 1/4 of Section 13; thence North 00°00'00" East, 544.50 feet to said North Section line; thence South 89°24'35" East, 400.00 feet along said Section line to the point of beginning. Subject to an easement for public highway purposes over the Northerly 33 feet thereof for East State Road. Together with all fixtures, tenements, hereditaments, and appurtenances belonging or in any way appertaining to the premises. Commonly known as: 4406 E. State Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058 P.P. #08-06-013-010-10 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. Dated: January 12, 2012 GREENSTONE FARM CREDIT SERVICES, FLCA Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2489 (616) 752-2000 5724104-1 77565353 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF A MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on December 16, 2004, by Justin D. Schultz and Heather B. Schultz, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, given by them to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on December 20, 2004, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 1138981, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of Ninety-Seven Thousand Fifty-One and 41/100 Dollars ($97,051.41); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, March 1, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE CITY OF HASTINGS, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: Lot 2 of Block 17 of Lincoln Park Addition to the City, formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 55. Commonly Known As: 636 W. Madison Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 Tax Parcel Number: 08-55-090-110-00 The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: January 18, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933 (517) 3718253 (01-26)(02-16) (01-26)(02-16) 77565418 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT; ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY SERVICE PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW. ATTENTION POTENTIAL PURCHASERS AT FORECLOSURE SALE: In the case of resolution prior to or simultaneously with the aforementioned foreclosure sale, U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate Trust 19992, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents, may rescind this sale at any time prior to the end of the redemption period. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited to the return of your bid amount tendered at the sale, plus interest. Default having occurred in the conditions of a Mortgage made by Stephen A. Elliott, Jr., an unmarried man ("Debtors") to Green Tree Servicing LLC (f/k/a Green Tree Financial Servicing Corporation), dated October 9, 1998, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry in the State of Michigan on October 9, 1998, in Document Number 1019205, et. seq., said Mortgage being last assigned to U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate Trust 1999-2, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents, ("Green Tree"), by Mortgage Assignment dated December 28, 2011, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry in the State of Michigan on January 9, 2012, in Document Number 201201090000311, et. seq., on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due as of the date of this Notice the sum of $104,661.55, which amount may or may not be the entire indebtedness owed by Debtors to Green Tree together with interest at 6.75 percent per annum. NOW THEREFORE, Notice is hereby given that the power of sale contained in said Mortgage has become operative and that pursuant to that power of sale and MCL 600.3201 et. seq., on March 1, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., on the East steps of the Circuit Court Building in Hastings, Michigan, that being the place for holding the Circuit Court and/or for conducting such foreclosure sales for the County of Barry, there will be offered at public sale, the premises, or some part thereof, described in said Mortgage as follows, to-wit: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF BARRY, COUNTY OF BARRY, STATE OF MICHIGAN, IS DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: PARCEL A: THAT PART OF THE SOUTHWEST 1/4 OF THE SOUTHWEST 1/4 OF SECTION 8, TOWN 1 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, DESCRIBED AS: COMMENCING AT THE WEST 1/8 POST OF THE SOUTHWEST 1/4; THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES 57' 37" EAST ON THE EAST AND WEST 1/8 LINE OF THE SOUTHWEST 1/4, 54.21 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING OF THIS DESCRIPTION; THENCE CONTINUING NORTH 89 DEGREES 57' 37" EAST, 729.09 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 26 DEGREES 37' 35" WEST, 361.52 FEET TO THE CENTERLINE OF FLORIA ROAD; THENCE NORTH 66 DEGREES 16' 54" WEST ON SAID CENTERLINE, 407.60 FEET; THENCE CONTINUING ON SAID CENTERLINE NORTH 62 DEGREES 31' 00" WEST, 163.68 FEET; THENCE CONTINUING ON SAID CENTERLINE NORTH 32 DEGREES 07' 43" WEST 67.90 FEET; THENCE CONTINUING ON SAID CENTERLINE NORTH 26 DEGREES 05' 11" WEST, 28.60 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. which also includes any interest Green Tree may have in the 1998 Fleetwood Mobile Home, Serial Number NFLW22AB05526BJ13. The redemption period shall be one (1) year from the date of sale unless the property is established to be abandoned pursuant to MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of sale or fifteen (15) days from the date the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(b) was posted and mailed. Dated: January 20, 2012 U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate Trust 1999-2, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents, By: DONALD A. BRANDT (P30183) BRANDT, FISHER, ALWARD & PEZZETTI, P.C. Attorneys for Green Tree 1241 E. Eighth Street, P.O. Box 5817 Traverse City, Michigan 49696-5817 (231) 941-9660 File No.: 6140.1060 Ad #19601 01/26, 02/02, 02/09, 02/16/2012 77565444 �Page 12 — Thursday, February 2, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: William Ellis and Judy Ellis, Husband and Wife to Ameriquest Mortgage Company, Mortgagee, dated August 28, 2003 and recorded September 9, 2003 in Instrument # 1112845 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Ameriquest Mortgage Securities Inc., Asset-backed Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2003-10, by assignment dated January 20, 2012 and subsequently recorded in Barry County Records on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Nine Thousand One Hundred Eighty-Six Dollars and Forty-Two Cents ($139,186.42) including interest 8.6% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00pm on March 1, 2012 Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land in the Northwest fractional one quarter of section 33, Town 4 North, Range 8 West described as: Commencing at the North one quarter post of said Section 33, thence South 2647.5 feet; thence South 89 degrees 57 minutes West 1273.18 feet to the place of beginning; thence North 54 degrees 5 minutes West 220 feet; thence North 35 degrees 22 minutes 15 seconds West 134 feet; thence South 15 degrees 5 minutes West 247.7 feet; thence North 89 degrees 57 minutes East 320 feet to the place of beginning. Commonly known as 522 Gaskill Rd, Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 2/2/2012 Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Ameriquest Mortgage Securities Inc., Asset-backed Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2003-10, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 11-53820 (0202)(02-23) 77565671 SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by RICHARD LINSEMAN, A MARRIED MAN and BARBARA LINSEMAN, A MARRIED WOMAN, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated July 21, 2005, and recorded on August 9, 2005, in Document No. 1150758, and assigned by said mortgagee to FLAGSTAR BANK, FSB, as assigned,Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Eight Thousand Six Hundred Dollars and Forty-Seven Cents ($98,600.47), including interest at 6.000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on February 9, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: COMMENCING AT THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF SECTION 32, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST; THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES 37 MINUTES 24 SECONDS WEST, 1912.69 FEET ALONG THE SOUTH LINE OF SAID SECTION 32 TO THE CENTERLINE OF LINDSEY ROAD AS NOW LOCATED; THENCE NORTH 07 DEGREES 55 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST 1441.82 FEET ALONG SAID CENTERLINE OF LINDSEY ROAD TO THE CENTERLINE OF BOULTER ROAD AS NOW LOCATED AND THE POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE NORTH 62 DEGREES 00 MINUTES EAST 281.09 FEET ALONG SAID CENTERLINE OF BOULTER ROAD; THENCE SOUTH 07 DEGREES 55 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST 165.00 FEET PARALLEL WITH SAID CENTERLINE OF LINDSEY ROAD; THENCE SOUTH 62 DEGREES 00 MINUTES WEST 281.09 FEET PARALLEL WITH SAID CENTERLINE OF BOULTER ROAD TO SAID CENTERLINE OF LINDSEY ROAD; THENCE NORTH 07 DEGREES 55 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST 165.00 FEET ALONG SAID CENTERLINE OF LINDSEY ROAD TO POINT OF BEGINNING. RESERVING THE NORTHERLY 33.0 FEET AND THE WESTERLY 33.0 FEET FOR HIGHWAY PURPOSES. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. FLAGSTAR BANK, FSB Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 FSB.004345 (01-12)(02-02) THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. MORTGAGE SALE -Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Virginia R. Grenz, and William H. Leforce, joint tenants, a single woman, a single man, Mortgagors, to Conseco Finance Servicing Corp., Mortgagee, dated July 26, 2000, and recorded on August 03, 2000, in Instrument No. 1047678, Barry County Records, and assigned by assignment to Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Trustee for Green Tree 2008-MH1, recorded in Barry County Records, Michigan, on which said mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, the sum of One Hundred Ninety-Two Thousand Seven Hundred Seventy-Nine 43/100 ($192,779.43) Dollars, including interest at 9.00% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at the place of holding the Circuit Court sales in Barry County, Michigan, on Thursday, February 23, 2012, at 1:00 p.m. Said premises are situated in the Township of Castleton, County of Barry and State of Michigan and are described as: The West 24 acres of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 18, Town 3 North, Range 7 West, subject to easements, reservations, restrictions and limitations of record, if any. C/k/a 5058 E. State Rd., Hastings, MI 49058. Parcel ID: 05-018-010-00. The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 16, 2012 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Trustee for Green Tree 2008MH1 Assignee of Mortgagee Keith A. Sotiroff, Esq. SOTIROFF & Bobrin, P.C. 30400 Telegraph Road, Ste. 444 Bingham Farms, MI 48025-4541 (248) 642-6000 (01-19)(02-09) THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Ronald D. Catrell, Ragene Catrell, husband and wife, to Fifth Third Mortgage - MI, LLC, Mortgagee, dated May 20, 2005 and recorded May 24, 2005 in Instrument Number 1147007, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Fifth Third Mortgage Company by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Seventy Thousand Seventy-Eight and 39/100 Dollars ($270,078.39) including interest at 3% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on MARCH 1, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 22 of Pennasee Park, according to the recorded plat thereof, Also Commencing Northwest corner said Lot 21; thence North 17 degrees 38 minutes 07 seconds West 10.00 feet along Northerly EXT of West line of said lot to North line platted alley; thence North 69 degrees 41 minutes 77 seconds East 52.52 to the point of beginning; thence North 01 degrees 06 minutes 28 seconds West 80.28 to centerline Gun Lake Road; thence Southeasterly along said centerline to a point lying 64.75 feet North 71 degrees 39 minutes 48 seconds West from intersection of centerline Gun Lake Road and platted alley of Pennassee Park; thence South 13 degrees 54 minutes 32 seconds West 39.91 to North line said platted alley; thence Northwesterly along North line said platted alley to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: February 2, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 200.8678 77565563 (02-02)(02-23) 77565395 77565109 Use the Hastings Banner classifieds to sell, rent, buy, hire, find work, etc. Call 269-945-9554 any time to place an ad with your credit card or stop in to J-Ad Graphics 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings State News Roundup Auto thefts decline — but lock the truck The Michigan Automobile Theft Prevention Authority recently announced that auto thefts in Michigan are down 9.35 percent from 2009 to 2010. Since the inception of the ATPA in 1986, auto thefts in Michigan have fallen by 62 percent. But the news isn’t so good for truck own- LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-26017-DE Estate of NELLIE L. CHURCH. Date of birth: 02/09/1938. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, NELLIE L. CHURCH, died 10/20/2011. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to VICKEY ANN ASHBY, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. COURT STREET, HASTINGS, MI 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 01/25/2012 ROBERT J. LONGSTREET P53546 607 N. BROADWAY HASTINGS, MI 49058 (269) 945-3495 VICKEY ANN ASHBY 8560 S. 36TH STREET SCOTTS, MI 49088 77565556 (269) 626-0201 NOTICE PURSUANT TO MCL 600.3205a(4) NOTICE is hereby provided to Lynne M Ramirez, the borrowers and/or mortgagors (hereinafter "Borrower") regarding the property located at: 183 N M 37 Hwy, Hastings, MI 49058-9740. The Borrower has the right to request a meeting with the mortgage holder or mortgage servicer. The agent designated by the Mortgage Servicer and/or Mortgage Holder to contact and that has authority to make agreements under MCL sections 600.3205b and 600.3205c is: Trott & Trott, P.C., 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200, Farmington Hills, MI 48334-2525 at (248) 593-1304 The Borrower may contact a housing counselor by visiting the Michigan State Housing Development Authority's website or by calling the Michigan State Housing Development Authority at http:// www.michigan.gov/mshda or at (866) 946-7432. If the Borrower requests a meeting with the agent designated above by contacting an approved housing counselor within 14 days from January 31, 2012, foreclosure proceedings will not be commenced until 90 days after January 31, 2012. If the Borrower and the agent designated above reach an agreement to modify the mortgage loan, the mortgage will not be foreclosed if the Borrower abides by the terms of the agreement. The Borrower has the right to contact an attorney. The telephone number of the State Bar of Michigan's Lawyer Referral Service is (800) 9680738. THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. Date: February 2, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer and/or Mortgage Holder 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334-2525 File # 384552F01 77565647 (02-02) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Kelley Lynn Carpenter and Douglas Edward Carpenter, Wife and Husband, original mortgagor(s), to Charter One Bank, N.A., Mortgagee, dated December 13, 2005, and recorded on January 17, 2006 in instrument 1158984, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eighty-Four Thousand Five Hundred Ninety-Six and 14/100 Dollars ($184,596.14), including interest at 7.33% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on February 23, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land in the Northeast 1/4 of Section 18, Town 4 North, Range 8 West, described as: Beginning at the Northwest corner of the Northeast 1/4 of said Section; thence East 46 2/3 rods; thence South 28 rods; thence West 20 rods; thence South 64 rods; thence West 26 2/3 rods; thence North 90 rods to beginning, except therefrom a parcel in the Northwest corner thereof that is 7 rods East and West by 30 rods North and South. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #370384F03 77565451 (01-26)(02-16) ers. Of the top 10 most frequently stolen vehicles in Michigan in 2011, six were Dodge Ram trucks (varying, by year, in popularity among thieves), two are Ford pickups and two are Chevrolet trucks. No cars, mini-vans or SUVs made the top 10. The Michigan Automobile Theft Prevention Authority also listed thefts by color, month and days of the week. The most common colors among stolen vehicles, in order, are black, white, red, blue, silver and green. The final four months on the calendar see the most vehicle thefts, followed by summer months, then spring. And, according to ATPA statistics, Tuesdays and Mondays saw the most vehicle thefts in 2011. Statewide rail plan available online The Michigan Department of Transportation has finalized a state rail plan to guide the future development of Michigan’s rail system for both passenger and freight rail over the next 20 years. The plan identifies current and future needs and makes recommendations to encourage ongoing rail investments. The plan, which was developed with public comments during two rounds of public meetings, is now available on the MDOT website, www.michigan.gov/mirailplan. “There are huge rail needs in the state of Michigan, and this is a great start in identifying those needs,” said Larry Karnes, MDOT’s freight policy expert who headed the team that prepared the plan. “The plan takes a con- servative view of future funding, while addressing the importance of freight and passenger rail to our economy and environment.” The total cost of these projects is approximately $7.2 billion. During the public meetings, most of the public comments focused on passenger rail topics, with strong interest expressed in developing passenger rail service. Outreach efforts included meetings with railroads, manufacturers, shippers, passenger rail supporters and agencies involved in rail services. Included in the package is a feasibility studies of service for connecting Traverse City and Petoskey to Chicago (via Grand Rapids) and/or Detroit. Karnes said projects could be moved between packages in future years depending on ridership demand, feasibility, cost, benefits, public support and funding availability. Refusing Fido leads to criminal charges The Kent County Sheriff Department arrested a 21-year-old female from Kentwood who has been charged with refusing accommodations to persons with disabilities accompanied by dogs. The charge stems from an incident Nov. 4, 2011, at Don Julio’s Restaurant on 28th St., SE, in Cascade Township. The woman’s name is not being released; she is scheduled for arraignment Feb. 8 in the 63rd District Court. The charge, a misdemeanor, carries a 90day jail sentence. LEGAL NOTICES SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT 248-539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. INITIAL FORECLOSURE NOTICE AS REQUIRED BY MICHIGAN PUBLIC ACT 30 OF 2009. Notice is hereby provided to Charles C. Flanagan Jr and Jennifer C. Flanagan, the borrowers and/or mortgagors (hereinafter “Borrower”) regarding the property known as 6331 ROOK ROAD, PLAINWELL, MI 49080 that the mortgage is in default. The Borrower has the right to request a meeting with the mortgage holder or mortgage servicer through its designated agent, Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. (“Designated Agent”), 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300, Farmington Hills, Michigan 48335, 248-539-7400 (Tel), 248-539-7401 (Fax), email: designatedagent@sspclegal.com. Charles C. Flanagan Jr and Jennifer C. Flanagan also has/have the right to contact the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (“MSHDA”) at its website www.michigan.gov/mshda or by calling MSHDA at (866) 946-7432 (Tel). If Borrower(s) requests a meeting, no foreclosure proceeding will be commenced until the expiration of 90 days from the date Notice was mailed to the Borrower(s) pursuant to Section 3205(a) of HB 4454, Public Act 30 of 2009. If Designated Agent and Borrower(s) agree to modify the mortgage, the mortgage will not be foreclosed if the Borrower(s) abide by the terms of the modified mortgage. Borrower(s) have the right to contact an attorney or the State Bar of Michigan Lawyer Referral Service at (800) 968-0738 (Tel). Pub Date: February 2, 2012 SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48335 LBPS.001747 (02-02) 77565676 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Joseph W. Erwine and Jennifer Armintrout AKA Jennifer Armitrout husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated December 3, 2008, and recorded on December 15, 2008 in instrument 200812150011806, and assigned by said Mortgagee to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Four Thousand Seven Hundred One and 35/100 Dollars ($124,701.35), including interest at 7% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on February 9, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The West 60 Feet of Lot 12 and the East 40 Feet of Lot 13 of the Plat of Smith's Acres, according to the recorded Plat thereof in Liber 4 of Plats, Page 10. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #391358F01 77565345 77565006 (01-12)(02-02) NOTICE OF MODIFICATION OPPORTUNITY Borrower(s): JACK RIDER Property Address: 708 EAST WALNUT STREET, HASTINGS, MI 490580000 County: Barry Pursuant to MCLA 600.3205a please be advised of the following: You have a right to request a meeting with the mortgage holder or mortgage servicer. The name of the firm designated as the representative of the mortgage servicer is: Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. and designee can be contacted at the address and phone number below. You may contact a housing counselor by visiting the Michigan State Housing Development Authority's website at http://www.michigan.gov/mshda or by calling 1-800A-SHELTER, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, year-round. If a meeting is requested with the designee shown above, foreclosure proceedings will NOT be commenced until 90 days after the date the notice mailed to you on 01/31/2012. If an agreement is reached to modify your mortgage loan the mortgage will NOT be foreclosed if you abide by the terms of the agreement. You have the right to contact an attorney. The website for the Michigan State Bar Lawyer Referral Service is http://www.michbar.org/programs/lawyerreferral.cfm and the toll free number is 800-968-0738. You may bring an action in circuit court if you are required by law to be served notice and foreclosure proceedings are commenced, without such notice having been served upon you. If you have previously agreed to modify your mortgage loan within the past twelve (12) months under the terms of the above statute, you are not eligible to participate in this program unless you have complied with the terms of the mortgage loan, as modified. Notice given by: Randall S. Miller Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 248-883-0157 (Loan Modification Dept.) loanmods@rsmalaw.com Case No. 12MI00227-1 Dated: February 2, 2012 PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT THIS OFFICE MAY BE ACTING AS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PUR77565663 POSE. (02-02) FORECLOSURE NOTICE (ALL COUNTIES) AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTIFY (248) 362-6100 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by Lucy Tobias, unmarried woman of Barry County, Michigan, Mortgagor to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Mortgage Investors Corporation it’s successors and assigns dated the 19th day of April, 2011, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, for the County of Barry and State of Michigan, on the 27th day of April, 2011, in Instrument No. 201104270004556 of Barry Records, which said mortgage was assigned to GMAC Mortgage, LLC , thru mesne assignments, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, for principal of $87,905.85 (eighty-seven thousand nine hundred five and 85/100) plus accrued interest at 3.00% (three point zero zero) percent per annum. And no suit proceedings at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to the statue of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on, the 1st day of March, 2012, at 1:00:00 PM said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI, Barry County, Michigan, of the premises described in said mortgage. Which said premises are described as follows: All that certain piece or parcel of land situate in the Township of Rutland, in the County of Barry and State of Michigan and described as follows to wit: Situated in the Township of Rutland, County of Barry and State of Michigan: Lot 19 and 20 of Pine Haven Estates, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats on Page 95. Commonly known as: 1589 Pinedale Dr Tax Parcel No.: 13-195-001-20 The redemption period shall be six months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: February 2, 2012 By: Foreclosing Attorneys Attorney for Plaintiff Weltman, Weinberg & Reis Co., L.P.A. 2155 Butterfield Drive Suite 200-S Troy, MI 48084 WWR# 10086435 (02-02)(02-23) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 2, 2012 — Page 13 POLICE BEAT BEA Driver’s story is not quite true During general patrol near M-66 and Jordan Road Jan. 29, a Michigan State trooper came upon a 1990 Oldsmobile in the ditch. The vehicle apparently failed to stop at the four-way stop sign, crossed the intersection and went into the ditch where it became stuck. The trooper reported that occupants appeared to be intoxicated, and one man claimed his wife had been driving but left on foot for help. The trooper checked the occupant’s story and was able to get statements from two witnesses, including the other passenger, revealing the man was not telling the truth about the accident. After further investigation, the 51-year-old Woodland man was arrested for operating while intoxicated, third offense, and driving while his license revoked. Suspicious driving prompts call A Michigan State trooper stopped a vehicle Jan. 30 in the area of Michigan Avenue and Walnut Street in Hastings. During the traffic stop, a witness called Barry Central Dispatch to report that as the trooper stopped the vehicle, another vehicle was quickly pulled into a parking lot and the driver fled on foot. A short time later, the driver returned to his vehicle and drove from the area while the trooper was concluding the traffic stop. An hour later, the trooper located the suspected vehicle on State Road. After speaking with the driver, the trooper was given permission to search the vehicle and located crack cocaine. The 50-year-old Portland man was arrested and lodged in Barry County Jail. Knife wielder unknown Hastings Police were dispatched Jan. 27 to a North Michigan Avenue address regarding an assault. The caller said he had been assaulted by a subject holding a knife. Officers spoke with the caller who said he had been walking down the sidewalk when he heard someone behind him yell. As he turned, a white male subject approached him with one hand in his coat pocket. A second male was farther behind the subject. The subject asked if the caller knew a certain individual. Before the caller could answer, the suspect allegedly pulled a folding knife from his pocket. After the victim threatened to call the police, the suspect opened the knife and threatened the victim. After the victim dialed 911, the two individuals ran off and around a nearby house. The suspect with the knife was reportedly 16 to 18 years old and about six feet tall. Subsequent investigation by Hastings Police revealed the name of one of the two suspects. The investigation continues. Man warns officer he’ll need more men Barry County Sheriff deputies were sent to a traffic accident south of Orangeville Jan 22. Upon arrival, deputies found the driver standing next to his overturned F250 truck near the intersection of Enzian and Bever roads. The driver, a 45-year-old Plainwell man, said a mechanical failure with the axle caused him to crash. When the driver attempted to smoke near the vehicle, a deputy asked him not to smoke. According to the report, the subject became very aggressive, swearing at the deputy and yelling the deputy would need to call for back up. After calming down the driver, the deputy learned the man had no driver’s license, identification or vehicle insurance and that he had three outstanding warrants. He told deputies after the accident he went to a bar and had several beers and shots, but continued to say he was not going to jail. The man admitted to drinking eight double shots of whiskey and eight beers after the crash. Deputies later were told by the bartender the subject had two shots and two beers. The man refused to take a Breathalyzer test. He told the deputy more men would be needed to arrest him. He reportedly said he had been in prison for 17 years and frequently fought with police officers. When the deputy tried to arrest the man, he resisted, and two other officers assisted, unsuccessfully. Deputies pulled their Tasers, warning the man, but he ran. One Taser hit the man’s back as he entered the woods. He became snagged on a fencepost and continued into the woods, at which time another Taser was deployed. Deputies were finally able to apprehend the man. A search warrant was issued to take a sample of his blood for alcohol content. He was charged with operating while intoxicated, driving with a suspended license, resisting and obstructing, leaving the scene of an accident, refusing a preliminary breath test and having no proof of insurance. His vehicle was impounded. Boyfriend’s jealousy turns violent Central Dispatch received a report of a domestic assault Jan. 26. Deputies were dispatched to a Banfield Road residence and found a woman with two black eyes and a swollen forehead. She told the deputy the injuries were from a previous assault by her live-in boyfriend. That night’s assault resulted from an argument about the victim’s job. The boyfriend was concerned about men at the woman’s place of employment. Reportedly, the suspect stood up and hit the victim with a beer bottle, then punched her in the face several times. He then allegedly bit her right wrist and told her to quit her job. He later tried to knee her in the face, according to the victim, then spit in her hair and started pulling it. The woman said she ran upstairs to get assistance from her sleeping roommate. The 23-year-old Battle Creek man was arrested, and the report was forwarded to the prosecutor’s office for review. The man’s Breathalyzer test registered .16 percent. Refunds for hot items unveil fraud Deputies were called to the Hastings Walmart Jan. 25 to investigate an incident of retail fraud. A 56-year-old Nashville man was seen on video returning a damaged lantern, which had not bee paid for, asking for a refund. Another video showed the man returning a cell phone that had been taken from a Battle Creek Walmart. He was seeking a refund from the Hastings store. The man also was seen receiving a refund for a camp stove which was not purchased. When confronted with the allegations, the man admitted to fraud and offered to pay back Walmart for the items. A deputy told the man he was no longer allowed in the Hastings Walmart. The report was forwarded to the prosecutor’s office for review. ‘Shopper’ should have saved receipt Deputies received a report of an alleged shoplifter at the Hastings Save-A-Lot store Jan. 26. When confronted by store employees, the 42-year-old Hastings woman left the building. She was found walking along M43 near Tanner Lake Road. The store clerk told deputies the woman had returned some pop cans for cash and went to the checkout to pay for sodas. The clerk said she also noticed items beneath the suspect’s coat in the bottom of the shopping cart. The woman started to walk out of the store with the cart. When confronted, the woman said she had bought the $15 worth of groceries at Walmart but did not have a receipt. She walked away from the store without the groceries. The store manager provided video of the incident. The woman was arrested and released on $100 bond. The report has been sent to the prosecutor for review. Ice shanty slides away to neighbor’s A Cloverdale Lake resident called the sheriff department Jan. 25 to report that his ice fishing shanty had been stolen from his property. The man said he had tied the shanty to a tree the night before and he was able to follow drag marks from the scene to find his shanty seven houses away. That house was unoccupied, and the complainant said he did not believe the homeowner had anything to do with the theft. The case is closed until further information is obtained. ‘Bloody Banner CLASSIFIEDS mattress’ case CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 remains under investigation According to a press release issued Jan 26, the Barry County Sheriff’s Department received DNA testing results from a bloody mattress found in the back of a pickup truck in Allegan County Sept. 2, 2011. The Michigan State Police Crime Lab conducted the DNA testing on blood found on the mattress, as well as on a rifle found in the truck and clothing belonging to Harold James Ordway. DNA testing was also conducted on a hat belonging to Hastings resident Paul Frederick Atchley, 53, who has been missing since September. The DNA testing confirms a match between items belonging to the suspect and the victim’s. The case remains under investigation. The investigation began following a traffic accident in early September at the intersection of M-89 and 8th Street in Plainwell. A bloody mattress was found in the back of Ordway’s truck. Ordway, 41, was arrested on the charge of a felon in possession of a firearm. Need wedding invitations? Stop by and check out the large selection at J-Ad Graphics Printing Plus North of Hastings on M-43 Highway in the grey barn Estate Sale Recreation Help Wanted ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are interested in leasing acreage for this years deer season. Call (269)795-3049 For Rent In Memoriam DRIVER TRAINEES NEEDED NOW! Become a driver for Werner Enterprises! Earn $750 per week! No experience needed! Local CDL Training! Job ready in 15 days! 1-877-649-2697. ALGONQUIN LAKE 1BD on the lake. $500/month, 1st months rent + security deposit. Call Michelle, 616-2933104. IN MEMORY OF Douglas B. Woodard 6/25/1958 to 2/2/2008 Memories are treasures no one can steal, death is a heartache nothing can heal. The tears in our eyes we can wipe away, but the love in our hearts will forever stay. All our love, Strut & Family For Sale AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 Card of Thanks 77564784 2000 FORD EXCURSION: Excellent condition, $8,400. (269)838-9189 RICK TAYLOR’S DETAIL WORKS. Auto cleaning service. Hours: 8am-5pm. (269)948-0958. Business Services ELIMINATE RISING FUEL THANK YOU COST- Clean, safe & effiThe Family of Myles Fisher cient wood heat. Central would like to thank boiler Classic Outdoor everyone so much for their Wood Furnace. Heats multisupport during the loss of ple buildings. Call SOS your our dear father. To Pastor “Stocking Dealer” Dutton, Steve Olmstead, thank you MI (616)554-8669 or for the beautiful service. (616)915-5061. God bless all of you. ~Dan, Pat, Denny, Liz, Deb, YOU WANT QUALITY at Doug, & Kim. affordable prices when you buy printing? Call J-Ad National Ads Graphics for everything from business cards and bro- THIS PUBLICATION chures to newspapers and DOES NOT KNOWINGLY catalogs. Phone (269)945- accept advertising which is 9554 or stop in at 1351 N. M- deceptive, fraudulent or 43 Hwy., Hastings. might otherwise violate law or accepted standards of taste. However, this publicaPUBLISHER’S NOTICE: tion does not warrant or All real estate advertising in this newsguarantee the accuracy of paper is subject to the Fair Housing Act any advertisement, nor the and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to quality of goods or services advertise “any preference, limitation or advertised. Readers are caudiscrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, tioned to thoroughly investinational origin, age or martial status, or gate all claims made in any an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” advertisements, and to use Familial status includes children under good judgment and reasonathe age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people ble care, particularly when securing custody of children under 18. dealing with persons unThis newspaper will not knowingly known to you ask for money accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our in advance of delivery of readers are hereby informed that all goods or services advertised. dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. Automotive BOOKKEEPING SERVICES Personal * Self-Employed * Small Business Payroll * Billing Accounts Receivable * Accounts Payable General Ledger Weekly * Monthly * Quarterly * Annually Call today! (269)420-5714 ROY HALL’S AUTO DETAILING: 25 years serving Barry County, (269)948-8377. GET EASY CASH with extra household goods and tools. Advertise with classifieds in the Reminder and Hastings Banner. Phone (269)945-9554. GET RID OF YOUR UNWANTED ITEMS! Place a garage sale ad in the Hastings Reminder. (269)945-9554 City of Hastings PUBLIC NOTICE The Township of Prairieville is currently accepting bids for Cleaning the Prairieville Township Hall and Offices. Those interested, please inquire at the Prairieville Township Hall, 10115 S. Norris Road, Delton, MI 49046. Contact Jill Owens, Township Clerk, (269) 62377565643 2664. Deadline: 2/16/12 Notice is hereby given that a public Accuracy Test will be conducted on Friday, February 10, 2012 at 9:00 AM in the office of the Hastings City Clerk, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan, for the purpose of testing the tabulating equipment and programs, which will be used to tabulate the voted ballots for the February 28, 2012, Presidential Primary Election. Voter assist terminals used to help voters mark their ballots will also be tested. The City will provide necessary reasonable aids and services upon five days notice to the Clerk of the City of Hastings (telephone number 269-945-2468 or TDD call relay services 1-800-649-3777). Thomas Emery City Clerk CITY OF HASTINGS CITY OF HASTINGS REQUEST FOR BIDS STREET LIGHT POLE PAINTING REQUEST FOR BIDS STREET LIGHTING REPAIRS The Downtown Development Authority (DDA) of Hastings is accepting sealed bids from qualified contractors for street light pole painting at various locations throughout the downtown area. Specifications are available at City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings. Sealed bids will be received at the Office of the City Clerk/Treasurer at the above address until 9:15 AM on Thursday, February 23, 2012 at which time they will be opened and read aloud. The DDA reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularity in any bid, and to award the bid in a manner it believes to be in its own best interest, price and other factors considered. Contractors will be required to provide proof of insurance in the amounts included in the bid package. All bids shall be clearly marked on the outside of the submittal package “Sealed Bid – Street Light Pole Painting”. The City of Hastings Department of Public Services is accepting sealed bids for the replacement of the existing street light cabling on both sides of West State Street from Church Street to Broadway. Specifications are available at City Hall at 201 East State Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Sealed bids will be received at the Office of the City Clerk/Treasurer at the above address until 9:00 AM on Thursday, February 23, 2012 at which time they will be opened and read aloud. The City reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularity in any bid, and to award the bid in a manner it believes to be in its own best interest, price and other factors considered. Contractors will be required to provide proof of insurance in the amounts included in the bid package. All bids shall be clearly marked on the outside of the submittal package “Sealed Bid – Street Lighting Repairs”. CLEANING SERVICE BID 77565580 Tim Girrbach Director of Public Services 77565578 Tim Girrbach Director of Public Services KEEP YOUR FRIENDS AND RELATIVES INFORMED! Send them a gift subscription to The Hastings BANNER To order your subscription, call... 269-945-9554 �Page 14 — Thursday, February 2, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lion wrestlers score their 3rd and 4th KVA wins Maple Valley assured itself of a winning record in Kalamazoo Valley Association duals this season by topping Delton Kellogg and Olivet at Pennfield High School Wednesday. The Lion team was the only one of the three in the two duals which was able to field a full line-up. That helped in a 42-37 victory over Delton Kellogg. Five pins helped too. Both Maple Valley and Delton Kellogg won seven matches in their dual, with the Lions scoring six points in all seven victories thanks to forfeits by Delton Kellogg at 112 pounds and 119 pounds and the five pins. The Lions’ Kodee Crouch needed just 24 seconds to pin Delton’s Crystal Peake in the 103 pound match, and it took Alex Reid just 40 seconds to pin Hunter Veshoof at 215 pounds. Reid’s pin was one of three by Lion heavyweights. Darius France stuck Hunter Chilton in 5 minutes 26 seconds at 171 pounds and Travis Franks pinned Blake Mast in 2:54 at 189 pounds. In the only match to last six minutes, Delton’s Wyatt Case topped Zack Pixley 7-2 at 145 pounds. Delton also had Tyler Dempsey earn a technical fall at 130 pounds, and got pins from Cameron Hudson at 125 pounds, Austin Ketola at 135, Jon Bechtel at 140, Austin Storm at 160 and Devin Kallee at 285 pounds. “We continue to improve each week,” said Lion coach Tony Wawiernia. “The kids are starting to walk like they are winners and its starting to show on the mat.” Sam Bonney had the only six-minute match in the Lions’ 65-18 win over Olivet. He topped Tyler Houck 9-6 in the 119-pound match. The Panthers’ Tyler Dempsey (right) fights to turn Maple Valley’s Jake Milbauer onto his back during their 130-pound match Wednesday at Pennfield High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Delton Kellogg’s Austin Ketola (left) tries to escape the grasp of Maple Valley’s Andy Zank during their 135pound match Wednesday at Pennfield High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Olivet forfeited eight weight classes to the Lions, and the other five matches all ended in pins. Franks at 189 pounds and Reid at 215 won for Maple Valley, while Scott Cook at 160 pounds, Derek Parsons at 171 and Jared Calkins at 285 all won by pin for the Eagles. In the night’s other duals, Pennfield topped Delton Kellogg 48-36 and Olivet 58-18. The Lions are currently in third place in the league standings with a 4-2 mark. Constantine is first at 6-0 and Parchment is second at 5-1. The Lions were scheduled Parchment Wednesday. “It will be a tough one, as they have beat everyone in the league except Constantine,” Wawiernia said. Constantine will host the KVA Meet Saturday. Delton Kellogg fell to 2-4 in the league with the two losses. They were slated to face league-leading Constantine Wednesday. Garber’s buzzer-beater sinks the Fighting Scots by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The pass was perfect. The timing was on. The shot went in. Hastings’ varsity boys’ basketball team knocked off Caledonia 46-45 in O-K Gold Conference action at Hastings High School as senior forward Keith Garber sank the gamewinning basket as time expired. Saxon guard Danny Buehler inbounded the ball from underneath the basket with 1.3 seconds left to play, lobbing a pass to the far corner of the free throw line. Garber hauled it in over the head of Caledonia’s Michael Miller and fired up his shot before coming back down to the floor and being swarmed by his teammates. “Ironically, five or six years ago we beat Caledonia with that play,” said Saxon head coach Don Schils. “I hate saying that. It’s a play that we’ve had. I think this is the second time we’ve run it this year, but never in a situation like that... Danny threw a very good pass and Keith did what he was supposed to do.” Caledonia took a 45-40 lead in the game with just over three minutes to play, and was spreading the floor with its guards on the offensive end to run some clock and try and create some one-on-one opportunities in the final couple minutes. The Saxons pulled within 45-42 on a bucket by Eric Hart with just over a minute and a half to play. “We’re all going to remember the last shot, but that never happens if Luke (Heide) doesn’t do his job like he did. He sank and stole that last pass that takes a lay-up from them and then gives us a chance on the offensive end,” Schils said. Heide’s steal with 46 seconds left eventually led to Garber pulling his team within 45-44 with just over 17 seconds left. Caledonia’s Michael Miller then missed the front end of a one-and-one at the other end, with Garber pulling down the defensive rebound. “We had three turnovers and a missed oneand-one, so our failure to execute sure did make things easier on Hastings,” said Caledonia head coach Todd Bloemers. “We have excelled in the past in end of game, close situations. Every opportunity is a Hastings guard Danny Buehler flies past Caledonia’s Brandon Martin on his way to the hoop during the second quarter Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) learning experience and we have to take this as a learning lesson and try to get better for the next time, because it’s not the last close game we’re going to play.” Garber finished with 11 points for Hastings. Heide led the way for the Saxons with 13 points, and Maxwell Clark had 12. Heide and Clark were both 4-of-4 at the free SAXON WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE Complete online schedule at: www.hassk12.org THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2 Boys Girls Boys Boys Boys Girls Fresh. Fresh. Varsity Varsity JV JV Basketball Basketball Swimming Swimming Basketball Basketball GR Catholic Central GR Catholic Central GR Creston GR Creston GR Catholic Central GR Catholic Central WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 8 A H A A A H Boys Girls Boys Boys Varsity Varsity Varsity Varsity Wrestling Basketball Basketball Ice Hockey Conf. Tourn. @ FHE GR Catholic Central GR Catholic Central vs. K-Zoo Blades A A A H SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 4 8:30 AM 9:00 AM 9:00 AM 11:00 AM 11:00 AM Boys Boys Boys Girls Girls Varsity JV B Team Varsity JV Swimming Wrestling Wrestling Cheer Cheer Ottawa Hills Invit. Saxon JV Invit. Saxon JV Invit. Sparta HS Sparta HS A H H A A Basketball Comstock Park HS Basketball Comstock Park HS Basketball Comstock Park HS H H H TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 7 4:00 PM 4:00 PM 5:30 PM 5:30 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM Boys Girls Boys Girls Boys Girls Fresh. Fresh. JV JV Varsity Varsity Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Thornapple-Kellogg HS Thornapple-Kellogg HS Thornapple-Kellogg HS Thornapple-Kellogg HS Thornapple-Kellogg HS Thornapple-Kellogg HS 7th B 8th B Varsity JV 8th A 7th A Basketball Basketball Cheer Cheer Basketball Basketball Newhall Middle Newhall Middle OK Gold Jam @ GRCC OK Gold Jam @ GRCC Newhall Middle Newhall Middle H A A A A H 4:15 PM 4:30 PM 4:30 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM Boys Boys Girls Boys Boys Boys Girls Middle Fresh. Fresh. Varsity Varsity JV JV Wrestling Basketball Basketball Wrestling Swimming Basketball Basketball Quad South Christian HS South Christian HS Team Dist. @ Byron Ctr. Ottawa Hills HS South Christian HS South Christian HS H A H A H A H Times and dates subject to change Thanks to This Week’s Sponsor: Certified Financial Planning MONDAY, FEBRUARY 6 4:00 PM Girls 7th B 5:00 PM Girls 7th A 6:00 PM Girls 8th A Girls Girls Girls Girls Girls Girls THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 7:30 PM 7:30 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 5:30 PM 5:30 PM 5:30 PM 5:30 PM A H A H A H Randy Teegardin, CFP.® Hastings City Bank Trust and Investment Group 269-945-2401 150 W. Court St. Hastings, MI 49058 Investment opportunities include non deposit investments which are: Not FDIC Insured Not Bank Guaranteed May Lose Value HASTINGS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS Contact Nancy 945-2742 or hastingsathleticboosters@gmail.com to sponsor the schedule 77565515 4:30 PM 4:30 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM throw line. Clark hit two threes in the game and Heide hit three. Clark scored the first seven points for the Saxons in the game, helping his team to an early 7-2 lead. The biggest lead for either team all game was seven points, with the Saxons building that advantage midway through the second quarter. The Scots tied the game at 22-22 late in the second period though, and Hastings would go into the half up 25-22. Caledonia wiped out a small Saxon lead late in the third quarter as well, with Michael Miller scoring six straight points as part of a 7-0 Scot run to end the third. The Scots led 36-35 after three quarters, then pushed their lead to five points midway though the fourth quarter. Michael Miller had three steals to spark the Scots’ second half surge. He led his team with 11 points. The Scots also got nine points from Brandon Martin and eight from Michael Ruddock. “We’ve been knocking on the door for a long time, and even despite some of our rough moments there in the fourth quarter it was our best marriage of our offense and defense that we’ve played this year,” said Schils. “I thought at times we even controlled it offensively. We were a lot more patient with Caledonia’s athleticism. It just caused more of a half-court game than getting up and down. When it went up and down they definitely had the advantage.” The Saxons are now 8-5 overall this season, and 3-5 in the O-K Gold Conference. “The biggest thing this will do for us is that we’ve just lacked that confidence that we can do it,” Schils said. “When you have a younger team, you need something like this to happen. Caledonia is a very good team. It’s a great win for us. Their kids played very hard, and hopefully there will be some momentum and it build our confidence. I think it will.” The Saxons worked hard on improving their offense after a 46-37 loss at Forest Hills Saxon guard Keith Garber rises above Caledonia’s Michael Miller to get off the game-winning shot in the final seconds Tuesday as Brandon Martin (15) and Luke Heide (14) look on. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Eastern Friday. The Hawks went on a 14-4 fourth-quarter run to secure the win. “We gave up too many offensive rebounds in the first half, and we had way too many turnovers. We had 20 turnovers,” said Schils. Schils added that his team didn’t do a good enough job of moving the basketball. Clark had nine points, and Buehler and Hart added eight each in the loss. Hastings will be at Grand Rapids Catholic Central Friday, then will be on the road Tuesday at Thornapple Kellogg. Trojans use inside presence to knock off Cougars in Gold Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity boys’ basketball team improved to 4-4 in the O-K Gold Conference with a 58-55 win over visiting Grand Rapids Catholic Central Tuesday. The Cougars couldn’t keep pace with the Trojans’ big bodies inside as Caden Francisco pumped in 20 points and had 13 rebounds to lead the Trojans and DJ Nolff added 12 points and eight boards. The Trojans had a 32-19 rebounding edge in the contest. The Trojans took control of the game in the third quarter with an 18-10 run, after trailing 32-29 at the half. TK also got nine points and six assists from Greg Hamilton, eight points from Zac Comeau and seven points from Brendon Hudsdon. Cobey Bussey led the Cougars with 15 points, while Jon Marosi added 13 and Deven Scot-Stith had ten. TK is now 9-5 overall this season. South Christian outscored the Trojans 17-7 in the fourth quarter Friday night in Grand Rapids, coming from six-points down at the start of the fourth to earn a 49-45 victory. Brandon Haan led the way for the Sailors with 12 points and Jordan Mulder chipped in 11. South Christian also got eight points each from Jordan Vanderwall and David Hossink. The two teams were tied 20-20 at the half, and the Trojans built a 38-32 lead heading into the fourth quarter. TK got 18 points from Hamilton, who hit four threes, and ten points from Francisco. Hudson added eight points. The Trojans at Wayland Friday, and Tuesday will be at home against Hastings. TKHS girls place seventh in Division 2 at LMCCOA meet Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity competitive cheer team placed seventh out of 11 Division 2 teams at Saturday’s Lake Michigan Competitive Cheer Officials Association Scholarship Meet hosted by East Kentwood High School. The Trojans dropped a couple of spots in the standings with an uncharacteristic rough round three performance, which ended with a score of 274 after an eight-point deduction. Kenowa Hills took the day’s Division 2 championship with an overall score of 740.2162. The Knights were in third place, but a solid round three score of 295.6 propelled them past Portage Northern and DeWitt. Portage Northern was second with a score of 734.8698, followed by DeWitt 733.9144, Byron Center 732.4270, Holland Christian 728.3724, Cedar Springs 709.8424, Thornapple Kellogg 702.3440, Reeths-Puffer 691.8766, Grand Rapids Christian 690.1480, Sparta 689.0692 and Mattawan 662.0920. DeWitt had the best Division 2 score of the day in round one, a 226.6, and led after two rounds after adding a 226.4144 in round two. Portage Northern scored a 223.4 in round one, then had the best round two score of the competition - a 227.2698. Portage Northern added a 284.2 in round three and DeWitt a 280.9 in round three. Thornapple Kellogg started the day with a 218.5 in round one and a 209.8440 in round two. Hudsonville won the day’s Division 1 championship with a score of 810.0744, and Comstock Park took the Division 3 title with a score of 699.8920. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 2, 2012 — Page 15 LHS unbeaten in conference duals The Vikings finished off their sweep of the Capital Area Activities Conference White Division duals Wednesday, knocking off visiting Perry 51-27. The Lakewood varsity wrestling team went 4-0 in league duals this season, and is now 173 overall. The conference’s championship tournament will be held Feb. 4 at Perry High School. Lakewood senior Dylan Shoup earned his 100th career victory in the win over the Ramblers, topping Ian Nemeth 7-5 in their 125-pound bout. That win by Shoup was one of just two sixminute matches in the bout. Lakewood recorded four pins in the dual. Austin Kietzman pinned Chris Strachan 1 minute and 7 seconds into their 119-pound match. Garrett Phelps stuck Cody Proudfoot 1:57 into the 160-pound match. Lakewood’s two heavyweights also won by pin, with Lars Pyrzinski putting Ben Seymor on his shoulders 51 seconds into the 215-pound match and Garrett Hyatt pinning Gary Nemeth 38 seconds in at 285 pounds. Lakewood won four matches by forfeit, with Austin Gostnell (103 pounds), Jeremy Innes (135), David Bibbler (140) and Nick Briggs (152) taking those victories. Perry had four pins in the dual, one each for Kyle Smith at 112 pounds, Tyler Vaver at 130, Luke Tallert at 145 and Eric Mortimore at 171. In the 189-pound match, the Ramblers’ Lakewood senior 125-pounder Dylan Shoup closes in on his 100th career victory as he hold Perry’s Ian Nemeth on his back during their match Wednesday. Alex Proudfoot pulled out a 3-2 decision against Lakewood’s Jack Tromp. “We’re rocking and rolling,” said Viking head coach Bob Veitch. “The kids didn’t wrestle real well (Wednesday) night. We need to increase our conditioning better to get it ready for this next level, which we are doing now.” The Vikings continued to roll Saturday, winning their 10-team Lakewood Invitational with a 5-0 record. Lakewood topped Central Montcalm 4822, Weberville 66-18, Stockbridge 68-12, Jackson Northwest 40-31 and Sturgis 39-29. Shoup, Phelps, Tromp, Pyrzinski and Hyatt were all undefeated on the day as well. Vikings shut out Williamston in third by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The second half of the Capital Area Activities Conference White Division season started on a high note for the Vikings as they avenged their early season loss to Williamston at Lakewood High School Friday. Lakewood’s varsity girls’ basketball team took control of the ball game by shutting out the Hornets in the third quarter, turning a 3432 half-time lead into a 53-32 advantage after three quarters and eventually into a 62-43 victory. “We got rid of a few demons tonight,” said Lakewood head coach Denny Frost. “We haven’t been playing well, and whenever that happens things get questioned. Bottom line was, we needed to play with more intensity. We challenged a couple of our better players and they really stepped up their game.” Emily Kutch led the way for the Vikings with 20 points, three assists and four rebounds. Madi King poured in 14 points and had four steals. “Madi and Emily were really clutch tonight,” Frost said. “When they play with this kind of energy we can be pretty good.” “I am really proud how the kids responded tonight. We came out with great energy and executed really well.” Lakewood led 19-7 after one quarter, but then saw the Hornets rally in the second. Williamston outscored the Vikings 25-15 in the second quarter. “Williamston did a nice job of getting back in the game by hitting some threes to cut the lead to two at the half,” Frost said. “We stressed the fact that they could make a run, but we had to stay poised at the defensive end and continue to attack. We came out and executed at the defensive end as well as we could, and held them scoreless in the third.” Kutch did a great job of getting to the free throw line, she was 9-of-11 from the stripe for the night. She wasn’t the only Viking shooting well. As a team the Vikings were 20-of-26 at the free throw line, hit nearly 42 percent of their shots from the field, and buried half of their 12 three-point tries. Ashley Jemison came off the bench and found her shooting touch, pouring in ten points. “Everyone came to play, and I’m really happy for Ashley Jemison,” said Frost. “She came off the bench and contributed 10 big points. Her shot has been off and her time has dropped. She could have pouted, but she stepped up big tonight.” Jemison and the rest of the girls off the bench did a nice job, when called upon, of working the ball against the Hornets’ pressure and continuing the starters’ solid defensive play. Williamston was led by Tara Harris, who had nine points. Laura Rosekrans chipped in seven. Lakewood is now 4-9 overall, and 3-3 in the CAAC-White. Lakewood was at home Wednesday to make up its contest with Hastings, and returns to league action Friday at home against Portland. LHS cheer scores second league win The Lakewood varsity competitive cheer team scored its second win in two tries in the Capital Area Activities Conference Blue/White Division Wednesday at Lansing Catholic. Viking head coach Kim Martin was much happier with her team’s performance Wednesday than she was with it at the first league competition of the year. The Vikings topped second-place Lansing Catholic by more than 29 points. “We had a great round one and three performance last night,” Martin said, “probably our best round one and three of the season.” The Vikings scored a 219.9 in the first round and a 288.2 in round three. Those two scores helped them reach a final total of 718.8688. Martin added that her team’s round two performance looked improved, but there were still some motion mistakes. The Vikings scored a 210.7688 in round two. “These were not our best scores this season, but different judges see different things,” Martin said. “Overall I was very pleased with the girls performance. Each meet we step up a little more.” Lansing Catholic was second with a score of 689.7360, followed by Corunna 678.7148, Grand Ledge 649.7528, Portland 629.5220 and Williamston 620.8952. Lansing Catholic had the day’s highest round one score, a 221.3. Lakewood was tops in rounds two and three. TK/Hastings boys score league win over Union, but not Unity Three teams hit the water in Hastings Thursday. The Thornapple Kellogg/Hastings varsity boys’ swimming and diving team split a pair of league duals at the Community Education and Recreation Center pool, topping Grand Rapids Union in their scheduled O-K Rainbow Conference dual 99-71, but fell in a make-up of its league contest with Unity Christian 123-60. The Trojan team won two events on the night overall, with Craig Gagnon taking the 50-yard freestyle in 24.17 seconds and Nate Ryfiak finishing first in the diving competition with a score of 142.0. In the match-up with Unity Christian the Trojans also won the 100-yard backstroke, a race which Zack Zwiernikowski took in 1 minute 4.48 seconds. Drew Besselen was a part of four wins for the Crusaders, individually taking the 100yard breaststroke in 1:07.53, the 200-yard individual medley in 2:04.54. He teamed with Matthew Bryant, Jake Huisman and Jimmy Wallinga to win the 200-yard medley relay in 1:53.55 and with Wallinga, Jordan Herd and Ben Woldyk to win the 200-yard freestyle relay in 1:37.93. Woldyk also won the 200-yard freestyle in 1:58.22 and the 100-yard freestyle in 53.07. The Crusaders’ other winners were Andrew Plaisier who took the 500-yard freestyle in 6:09.71, Eric Hoskins who won the 100-yard butterfly in 1:01.88, and the 400-yard freestyle relay team of Herd, Paul Vestrate, Huisman and Wallinga which finished in 3:47.19. Union’s Lorenzo Wesche had the day’s fastest time in the 100-yard backstroke, finishing that race in 1:03.62. That was one of just four events Union swimmers topped the Trojans team in. TK/Hastings had the team of Zwiernikowski, Gagnon, Levi Ryfiak and Daegen Mix win the 200-yard medley relay in that competition with a time of 1:53.78. Mix, Zwiernikowski, Gagnon and Jared Bailey took the 400-yard freestyle relay for TK/Hastings in 3:50.65. Gagnon contributed to the two relay wins, won the 50-yard freestyle, and won the 100yard breaststroke in 1:11.68 Levi Ryfiak added a win in the 200-yard individual medley with his time of 2:24.89, and Mix won the 100-yard freestyle in 55.38. Fredrik Isgard chipped in a win in the 500yard freestyle relay for TK/Hastings with his time of 6:26.55. Union had Wesche win the 100-yard backstroke and the 200-yard freestyle in 2:02.87, and Desmond Smith win the 100-yard butterfly in 1:05.55. Smith and Wesche also teamed with Walt Schaub and Tyler Partanon to win the 200-yard freestyle relay in 1:43.51. The Lakewood JV team was second to the Cougars on the night. The Viking varsity followed that up by winning Saturday’s Waverly Invitational in Lansing. Lakewood had its highest round one score of the season, a 225.4, and finished the day with a total of 713.6466. Waverly was second with a 694.7248, followed by Owosso 668.1038, Eaton Rapids 561.6348, Haslett 512.6240 and Grand Ledge 371.6282. The Vikings added a 199.0466 in round two and a 289.2 in round three. “Round two and three were a little rough for us, but we pulled out enough to stay ahead of Waverly,” Martin said. “We need to get rid of the mental mistakes that we are having before we head into the league finals and tournament play. We have to have better focus on the mat. We also need to work very hard the next few weeks on cleaning up our tumbling skills. We know the girls can nail each round we just have to perform it that way on the mat.” Lakewood is now off until the final CAAC Blue/White meet of the season at Lakewood High School Feb. 8. Elks Lodge 1965 announces winners of annual Hoop Shoot The annual Hoop Shoot, hosted by Hastings Elks Lodge 1965, was held Jan. 7 at Hastings Middle School. Place winners included (front from left) Collin Hawthorne (second place, 10-11-year-old boys), Braden Vertalka (second, 8-9 boys), Joey McLean (third, 8-9 boys), Allie Horning (first, 10-11 girls), (second row) Kirby Beck (first, 8-9 boys), Carter Cappon (first, 10-11 boys), Gabe Flood (third, 10-11 boys), (back row) Hoop Shoot director Mike McLean, Jackson Long (first, 12-13 boys), Brenagan Murphy (third, 12-13 girls), Brianna Arens (second, 12-13 girls), Lizzy Heide (first, 12-13 girls), Jimmy McDermott (third, 12-13 boys). Missing from photo is photo Sam Johnson (second 12-13 boys). Lakewood has ups and downs in loss to visiting Williamston There are things to work on and things to be happy about for Lakewood’s varsity boys’ basketball team after Friday night. Lakewood fell 62-48 against visiting Williamston in Capital Area Activities Conference White Division action Friday. The loss drops the Vikings to 2-10 overall and 2-4 in the league. “Well, we played with much better intensity tonight,” said Viking head coach Mark Farrell. The Hornets scored 22 points in the third quarter to push their lead to 42-27 heading into the fourth quarter, but the Vikings kept battling. They outscored the Hornets 21-20 in the fourth quarter as Jacob Buehler poured in 12 of his team-high 17 points in the period. He also led the Vikings in rebounds with four. “We played the last four minutes of the game with hustle and a desire to want it,” said Farrell. It was some of what happened in those other minutes that hurt the Vikings. They shot just 21 percent from the field, making just five of 24 field goal attempts from two-point range. They also had just 14 rebounds all game. Williamston raced out to a 15-4 first quarter. Three threes in the second helped the Vikings close that gap to 20-17 at the half, but Williamston took off with their 22-10 run in the third. David Parks had two of the threes in the Vikings’ second quarter rally, and hit three for the game. He finished with 11 points. Lakewood did shoot well at the foul-line, hitting 17-of-24 attempts. Dylan Durkee was 5-of-6 and finished with five points. Williamston had a huge night at the free throw line, hitting 29 of its 38 tries at the stripe. Thomas Barrett was 7-of-7 at the line, and tied for the team lead with 11 points. Justin Cain also had 11 points for the Hornets. He knocked down three threes. Jimmy Kodet added ten points. Lakewood returns to action Friday at home against Portland. Hastings cheer team earns first place at Bulldog Classic The Saxons’ outstanding season continued Saturday. Hastings’ varsity competitive cheer team won Otsego’s 19-team Bulldog Classic, with not only the best Division 1-2 score of the day but the best score of any of the 19 teams. The Saxons’ performance included the best round two and three scores of the competition. They finished with a total score of 721.3826. Kalamazoo Central was second in the Division 1-2 competition with a score of 704.7440. Paw Paw, competing in Division 3, was second overall with a total of 712.9880 points. Hastings scored a 205.8 in round one, then added a 210.6826 in round two and a 304.9 in round three. Kalamazoo Central had a nearly ten-point lead after a round one score of 215.1, but then tallied a 199.7440 in round two and a 289.9 in round three. Wayland was third in the Division 1-2 standings with a 690.5212, followed by Portage Central 684.8596, Plainwell 671.3992 and Marquette 627.6430. Shelby took the day’s Division 4 championship with a score of 670.2764. Hastings also had the best JV score of the day, a 629.8784, with scores of 183.3 in round one, 164.7784 in round two and 281.3 in round three. The O-K Gold Conference was scheduled to get together for its fourth jamboree of the season yesterday at Thornapple Kellogg High School. The Saxons return to action at Sparta Saturday, then will take part in the final league jamboree of the season at Grand Rapids Catholic Central Wednesday. Keep your friends and relatives INFORMED! Send them The Hastings BANNER To subscribe, call us at... 269-945-9554 �Page 16 — Thursday, February 2, 2012 — The Hastings Banner TK wrestlers hand Hastings a second Gold defeat by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Trojans won the big one with Hastings, setting up an even bigger dual. Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity wrestling team knocked off rival Hastings 37-25 in their O-K Gold Conference dual in Middleville Wednesday to improve to 5-0 in league duals. That set up a showdown between the Trojans and Caledoina Fighting Scots at Caledonia High School Wednesday between the league’s two undefeated teams. The winner of that dual will take the league lead into the Friday night’s conference tournament at Forest Hills Eastern High School. “It’s crazy,” said Trojan senior Nate Iveson Wednesday. “Everybody gets into it. We’ll have half the stands filled on one side one time, and then Hastings we’ve got both sides filled like a basketball game. It’s just crazy. It’s always good to beat the cross-town rivals.” Thornapple Kellogg head coach Scott Szczepanek got his varsity wrestlers out of the wild gym in Middleville quickly following his team’s win over the Saxons, and had a good talk with them. “(Coach) congratulated us first, and then he just told us that we’re one step closer to that conference championship goal,” said Iveson. “We’ve got to go out and complete what we started at the beginning of the season.” Iveson completed the Trojans’ victory over the Saxons, sealing the victory with a 12-9 win over Jason Slaughter in the 140-pound match. “It’s awesome. It’s undescribealbe,” said Iveson of clinching the dual. “My head was in the match, and I was just thinking about going out there and getting at least three (team points).” His win put TK up 33-25 with one match to go. Oscar Cardosa won that one for TK too, topping Stephen Kendall 13-4 at 145 pounds. Hastings won the night’s first two matches, with Chase Huisman topping Cole Gahan 2-0 thanks to two nearfall points in the third peri- The Saxons’ Joe Siska (right) holds Thornapple Kellogg’s Austin Sensiba on his back during the second period of their 135-pound match Wednesday in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) od at 152 pounds and Kenny Cross scoring an 18-10 major decision over Alex Roy. Roy was injured in the match and just narrowly missed holding Cross to a three-point decision. TK pulled in front with wins in the five bouts, but it was Hastings wrestlers taking moral victories for not giving up too many points in a few of those. Dan Dykstra tried to rally for a few late takedowns, but only managed an 8-3 win over Cody Newton at 171 pounds. Peter Westra pulled out a 3-0 win at 189. Austin Koehl started fast, but had to work for an 8-4 win at 215 pounds over Nate Pewoski. “I think we kind of allowed ourselves to be caught up into the atmosphere of everything,” Szczepanek said. “Not to take anything away from coach (Mike) Goggins and what Hastings did. They wrestled a great match. They knew where maybe our line-up was stronger, and they kept themsleves from giving up bonus points especially at the matches up top. “Their heavyweight (Mike Pewoski) did a wonderful job. Not a lot of people have gone with Adrian (Foster) the full time. Adrian is a The Saxons’ Davey Case (top) was 5-0 Saturday as his team won its way to a runner-up finish at the Jenison Duals. Hastings’ Mike Pewoski (left) and Thornapple Kellogg’s Adrian Foster battle for control during the second-period of their 285-pound match Wednesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) very talented wrestler. Their coach told me that (Mike) hasn’t been out since 8th grade. To ask him to step out in that position, he did a wonderful job.” Foster did eventually earn the first pin of the night, sticking Saxon 285-pounder Mike Pewoski in 4 minutes 42 seconds. He had to survive a wild second period first though, one in which both wrestlers earned back points. Trojan 103-pounder followed up Foster’s performance with a pin of his own, sticking Aaron Williams in 3:16. That pin put TK up 21-7, and alternating victories the rest of the way wasn’t enough for the Saxons. “That’s the best they’ve been coached in five years,” Saxon head coach Mike Goggins said of the Trojans. “They’re a well-prepared team. They’ve got more experience than we do. We wrestled hard. I have no complaints. It was a good match. That’s what wrestling matches are supposed to be like. That was fun. It would have been more fun if it had gone the other way, but it was fun.” TK had Ryan Flynn score a 5-1 decision at 119 pounds over Shane Tossava and Paul Haney at 130 pounds pin Brody Madden in 24 seconds. Hastings other winners included Zach Wilcox at 112 pounds, David Case at 125, and Joe Siska at 135 who all won by fall. The Saxons were 2-2 in league duals heading into contests with Ottawa Hills and Forest Hills Eastern at FHE Wednesday. Hastings bounced back from its loss to the Trojans by improving its overall record in duals to 22-8 with a second-place finish at the Jenison Duals Saturday. The Saxon team defeated Birmingham Brother Rice 55-11, Jenison 46-21, Plainwell 82-0, and Dewitt 55-21, and lost to Allendale 43-18. Case at 125 pounds won all five of his matches for the Saxons, while Williams at 103, Tossava 112, Kendall 152, Cross 160, Nate Pewoski 215, and Mike Pewoski 285 were all 4-1. “Its great to see seniors, David Case and Shane Tossava really wrestling well lately,” goggins said. “Being their senior year, it really helps us to have them peaking at just the right time.” The Saxon ‘B’ Team went 2-2 on Saturday placing fourth at the Rockford ‘B’ Duals. Panthers surge past the Lions after first quarter by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Lions did a lot of things right Friday. Maple Valley’s varsity boys’ basketball team held Delton Kellogg’s top two scorers, Ryan Watson and Mitchell Wandell who are two of the top scorers in the Kalamazoo Valley Association, to 19 points combined. The Panthers’ Nick Brindley (right) reaches in to rip a rebound away from Maple Valley’s Tommy Mudge during the first half Friday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) They both average over 16 points per game. The Lions cut their number of turnovers from 24 in the first meeting with Delton Kellogg to 13. Garrett Miller drilled four three-pointers. The Lions also had some things they didn’t do so well though in their 61-42 loss to the visiting Panthers. The Panthers, led by Nick Brindley in the paint, had a 32-22 rebounding edge and had a whopping 20 offensive rebounds. The Lions also struggled to score in the second quarter, thanks in no small part to the Panthers’ defensive effort. The two teams were tied 18-18 after one quarter, but the Panthers limited Maple Valley to just three points in the second quarter as they built a 3121 half-time lead. “We played a great first quarter, as we have every game this year,” said Lion head coach Chris Ewing. “We sort of died out in the second quarter. We’re just trying to get a 32 minutes of a full game in and we’ll see what happens in the end.” Miller hit three of his four threes in the first quarter. After that Delton Kellogg head coach Mike Murray had Connor Wolschleger pay him special attention and that limited his opportunities some the rest of the way. An 8-0 run by the Panthers to close out the first half was sparked by some transition buckets. Norm O’Meara hit a three to put his team up 29-21, and on the Panthers’ next possession O’Meara faked a three and hit Brindley in the lane for an easy two to push the lead to double digits. Brindley led Delton Kellogg with 15 points off the bench. He also had a team-high six rebounds. “That’s the key for us, running and then the defensive stops,” said Delton Kellogg head coach Mike Murray. “That’s what we try to make our name on, and Maple Valley played really well in that first quarter. They played Delton Kellogg’s Zach Leinaar attacks the basket during the first quarter Friday night at Maple Valley High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) hard all game, but they really shot it well and did some things really good against us in that first quarter.” Delton also got 11 points from Watson, who was 6-for-6 at the free throw line, and eight points from Wandell. Adam May finished with ten points for DK too. “Our guys really had that business-like state of mind,” Murray said. “Even when (Maple Valley was) playing well in the first quarter, my guys didn’t get rattled. My guys played hard. Once we got that lead you could see there was no let-down. We try to get them play at that same level all the time.” Ewing was the happy with the defensive effort of sophomore Micah Bromley on Watson, who had just two field goals in the contest. The Lions were led by Miller’s 14 points. Garret Mater chipped in six points and Bromley had five. Maple Valley was just 13-of-24 at the free throw line, while the Panthers were 15-of-18. “They played us hard,” Ewing said. “They look like a team that’s part of the top of the KVA. You expect them to play us hard all game. Our team is coming along. They’re getting better.” Delton Kellogg is now 9-2 in the KVA aftera a 71-59 win over visiting Hackett Catholic Central Tuesday. The Irish pulled out to a 16-12 lead in the opening quarter, but saw the Panthers outscore them 39-22 over the course of the next two quaters to take control of the game. Watson drilled four three-pointers and finished the evening with 20 points. Brindley finshed with 13 points, Zach Meyers 12 and Adam May had ten points. Hackett was led by Joe Pelak, who had 15 points. The Lions are now 1-9 overall this season, and 0-9 in the KVA. Constantine edged the Lions 40-38 Tuesday. Garrett Reid had 14 points for the Lions in the loss, while Miller and Mater chipped in eight each. The Falcons got 16 points from Scott Sehy and ten from Chase Niblock. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 2, 2012 — Page 17 Parchment helps DK get back atop KVA standings by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Delton Kellogg’s girls might need to send Parchment’s girls a thank you card. Either that, or they can just tell them next Friday night. Delton Kellogg’s varsity girls’ basketball team is back in a first-place tie with Olivet in the Kalamazoo Valley Association standings. Both teams are 10-2 in league play after Tuesday night’s action, a night in which Parchment topped the Eagles for the second time, 41-37. Delton Kellogg earned its tenth league win by topping Hackett Catholic Central in Kalamazoo 41-18. “We’ve got to take care of our own business,” said Delton Kellogg head coach Mike Mohn. “We got the help we were looking for. Now, like it wasn’t before, it’s very important that we take care of our own business - then it isn’t going to matter what anybody else does, and that’s how it should be.” The upcoming business for the Panthers is a Winter Fest contest at home against Constantine Friday, and then a trip to Parchment on Friday Feb. 10. The final outcomes weren’t the only reason for Delton Kellogg to celebrate Tuesday. Panther senior forward Adrianna Culbert broke her sister Alex Culbert’s school record for career rebounds in the first game of the season and Tuesday she became Delton Kellogg’s leading scorer ever. Culbert had 16 points and 14 more rebounds in her team’s win over Hackett Catholic Central. She went into the game five points shy of Kortni Matteson on the all-time scoring list, and is now up to 918 points for Delton Kellogg’s Rachel Parker tries to slow down Maple Valley’s Timara Burd as she dribbles around the top of the key Friday night. (Photo by Brett Bremer) her varsity career. Delton Kellogg also got six points and eight rebounds from Mallory Sewell in the win, and 11 points from Andrea Polley. The Panthers led Hackett 20-7 at the half. “Defensively we did a nice job, but Hackett just missed a lot of shots,” Mohn said. “I felt bad for them. It was just one of those nights where they could hit nothing. They got some wide-open looks but still just could not knock them down.” Things were lopsided in the Panthers’ favor Friday too, but they did get a bit more of a battle in a 62-40 KVA win at Maple Valley High School “I thought our intensity was better tonight than it has been in a long time,” said Maple Valley head coach Landon Wilkes. “One of the things that we talked about prior to the game was to show up and compete. No matter the score, no matter what’s going on, come out and compete.” The Lions did that. They tried out a new 31-1 press, which was effective at times and also had it moments where it looked as though it had just been put in during the last couple practices - which it was. The Panthers wanted to start a basketball game with a sense of urgency, and they did that, after a tough overtime loss to Olivet in the previous game. The Panthers built a 15-6 lead in the opening quarter, and then extended that lead to 3721 at the half. “That’s been kind of our little issue. We worked on it in practice Wednesday and Thursday, set up some drills early in the practice to just kind of simulate getting out of the shoot,” said Mohn. “I couldn’t have been more pleased with how we started, effort-wise and attacking-wise and all the little coaching nuances. I was most pleased with that.” Culbert led Delton Kellogg with 20 points, ten rebounds and four steals in the contest. Polley added 12 points, as well as seven assists. Mohn said his team’s 15 assists was a season high. Brooke Martin chipped in 11 points and Rachel Parker had eight for Delton Kellogg, while Sewell had six points and eight rebounds. The Lions are now 2-9 in the league after topping Constantine on the road Tuesday. Mohn had high praise for the Lions effort though Friday, a sentiment he shared with Wilkes after the contest. “They’re like the little, in a positive way, they’re that little gnat that just won’t go Sailors and Cougars hit TK with two more league losses Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity girls’ basketball team is now 2-6 in the O-K Gold Conference and 3-11 overall after falling in a couple of contests in Grand Rapids in the past week. The Trojans fell 61-25 to South Christian Friday. The Sailors jumped out to a 15-3 lead, and extended their advantage to 32-11 by the end of the first half. South Christian had three girls in double figures, led by Mycah Hulst who finished with 12 points. Jayne Kessel added 11 and Cassidy Vredevoogd ten. Thornapple Kellogg got nine points from Crystal Smith, five from Kelli Graham and four from Nicole Schondelmayer. The contest was South Christian was the second of five straight road games for the Trojans, who also fell 45-27 at league-leading Grand Rapids Catholic Central Tuesday. Courtney Zenner had 15 points, and Jessica Weaver nine in the win for the Cougars. TK got eight points from Graham and five each from Smith and Shelby Tedrow. The Trojans have another tough road game Friday, at Wayland, then Tuesday will be in Hastings to take on the Saxons. Saxons shoot poorly at FHE The Saxons couldn’t put the ball in the basket Friday. Hastings varsity girls’ basketball team did nearly everything else right in a 31-25 O-K Gold Conference loss at Forest Hills Eastern. “The stats for this game are just so frustrating,” said Hastings head coach Steve Laubaugh. “We had more shots in the first quarter than they had halfway through the third quarter. We did a pretty good job rebounding, we did a pretty good job taking care of the ball. We just missed everything. And for the most part, they were good looks at the basket. When we missed, we had a great total on offensive boards and then we missed the putbacks.” The Saxons hit just 7 of their 50 field goal attempts, 14 percent. The Hawks led throughout, building a 13-7 lead in the opening quarter, and pushing the edge to 21-14 at the half. Taylor Carter managed ten points for the Saxons, and Grace Meade had five. The Saxons also got eight rebounds from Rachel Quillen, and seven each from Dani Meredith and Nichole Redman. Delton Kellogg cheer wins a second SMCCC Jamboree The Southern Michigan Competitive Cheer Conference will meet for its final two league competitions next week, with a jamboree at Pennfield Tuesday and the league championship at Schoolcraft Saturday Feb. 11. Delton Kellogg won each of the first two league jamborees, topping runner-up Schoolcraft by more than a dozen points Wednesday at Maple Valley High School. Delton Kellogg had a final total of 612.1728. The Panthers had the top score in each of the first two rounds, a 193.2 in round one and a 164.8728 in round two. They added a 254.1 in round three. Schoolcraft had the top round three score, a 260.6, but that wasn’t enough for the Eagles to catch the Panthers. Schoolcraft finished with a three-round total of 599.6 Pennfield was third with a 597.0764, fol- lowed by White Pigeon 590.4540, Bronson 582.8740 and Maple Valley 520.8740. The Lions scored a 171.6 in round one, then added a 144.9740 in round two and a 204.3 in round three which included 16 points worth of deductions. The Lions were back in action Saturday at the Pewamo-Westphalia Competitive Cheer Invitational, where they finished fourth. Charlotte took the day’s championship with a score of 740.8440. The host Pirates were second with a 733.6832, followed by St. Johns 670.9312 and Maple Valley 516.1180. P-W had the day’s highest round one score, a 220.7, then Charlotte won the final two rounds with scores of 213.544 and 309.9. The Lions tallied a 168.2 in round one, a 141.318 in round two and a 206.6 in round three. Meade also had four steals, while Redman chipped in three steals and a blocked shot. Quillen had two steals and also took a charge. “Our defense was good,” Laubaugh said. “We still struggle with understanding close games. I mean, we make so many silly mistakes, and in a close game each possession matters so much. We’re getting better, there’s no doubt about it. That’s why losing this game is frustrating.” The Saxons returned to action Tuesday and fell 37-31 at Caledonia. The Fighting Scots built a 27-12 lead in the first half, and pushed their edge up to as many as 17 points in the second half. Alexis Miller led the Scots with ten points and five assists. Reyni Harvey had six points. The Scots outrebounded the Saxons 37-23 in the win. Hastings got 15 points from Carter, who knocked down a pair of threes. Meredith added six points. Hastings has another tough one Friday, at Grand Rapids Catholic Central, then will be home Tuesday against Thornapple Kellogg. The Saxons are now 1-12 overall this season and 1-7 in the O-K Gold. Delton Kellogg’s Andrea Polley drives past Maple Valley’s Kaitlyn Petersen during Friday night’s KVA contest at Maple Valley High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) away,” said Mohn. “You’re swatting, and Dri (Culbert) has four or six in a row underneath and you look and you’re up 14 or 16, and you think you should be up by 30. You just can’t get there because they just don’t ever stop.” The Panthers focused on trying to shut down Mikaela Bromley, but she still got hers finishing with 15 points. The Lions also got seven points each from Kaitlyn Petersen and Timara Burd. “I thought tonight I saw some good basketball plays,” said Wilkes. “Somebody dribbled into the corner one time, kicked it back out, made a basket cut, made a lay-up. I saw a couple penetrations, draw, kick and we knock down a jump shot. Those are the little things that we’re trying to build upon every single day at practice. “I was happy to see basketball plays tonight.” The Lions were happy to get a win Tuesday. Kaitlyn Petersen had 15 points to lead her team to the victory, while Timara Burd chipped in 13 points and Bromley nine. Maple Valley led the Falcons 24-19 at the half. Makayla Parsons led Constantine with nine points and Kristia Krueger had seven. The Lions are currently 3-10 overall. BOWLING SCORES Monday Mixerettes NBT 50.5-33.5; Kent Oil 46-38; Dean’s Dolls 45.5-38.5; Nashville Chiropractic 4044; Dewey’s Auto Body 39-45; James Process Service 31-53. Good Games and Series - D. James 194513; V. Carr 168; B. Anders 149-431; S. Nash 158-422; J. Alflen 191-523; J. Rice 220-540; L. Elliston 187; B. Hathaway 172-456; T. Redman 146; P. Fowler 158; 188-527. Senior Citizens Butterfingers 53-31; Just Having Fun 49.534.5; Kuempel 45-39; Three Gals & a Guy 44-40; King Pins 43-41; Ustedtobe #1 42-42; Early Risers 41-43; M&M’s 41-43; Sun Risers 35.5-48.5; Ward’s Friends 26-58. Women’s Good Games and Series - K. Kingsley 102-266; B. Benedict 154; M. Wieland 186-474; P. Freeman 162; G. Scobey 179-464. Men’s Good Games and Series - L. Brandt 223-600; B. Akers 188; D. Dimmers 204; L. Dunn1 72-476; G. Forbey 161-451; D. Murphy 159-401; M. Saldivar 215-547; R. Hart 189-483; W. Talsma 170-493; J. Kleinbrink 162; B. Terry 189-553; R. Boniface 193-497. Wednesday PM Mills Landing 61-23; The River 49-35; Eye & ENT 46-38; Four Pals 44.5-39.5; Hair Care 39.5-40.5*. Good Games and Series - K. Moore 143331; B. Smith 180-491; S. Beebe 179; L. Elliston 191-505; T. Christopher 179; P. Shellington 159-412; G. Scobey 162. *Games to be made up. Tuesday Night Mixed Boyce Milk Haulers 60-28; Hurless Machine Shop 53.5-34.5; Hometown Lumber 49.5-38.5; Barry County Red Cross 46-38; JBar Antique Tractors 35-53; Dirt Broke 16-68. Men’s Good Games and Series - G. Hause 223-554; D. Benner 212-543; C. Winkler 150- 417; M. Burd 150-412; S. Hause 183. Women’s Good Games and Series - B. Wilkins 187; B. Smith 170; D. Service 168433; R. Gross 159; M. Wilcox 137. Thurs. Angels Miller Farm Repair 50.5-29.5; Rock-NBowlers 50.5-29.5; Hastings Bowl 48-32; Moore’s Apts. 48-32; Riverfront Fin. Ser. 4238; Cathy’s Cut and Curl 41-39; Varney’s Const. 36-44. High Game and Series - W. Barker 138; J. Gasper 224-563; A. Castelein 222-564; C. Hooper 162; C. Doornbos 189; J. Zaagman 211-570; D. McCollum 182; L. Watson 175; M. Moore 179-493; N. Taylor 130; A. Cross 126; Cathy S. 154; K. Burch 147; N. Newton 141; L. Jackson 145; S. Butler 165; J. Wood 157; C. Cooper 193-537. Sat. Majors (Youth League) Strikers 39-17; Leones 32-24; Hastings Bowl 27.5-28.5; Whatever 26.5-29.5; Zombies 23.5-32.5; Great Balls of Fire 19.536.5. Good Games and Series Girls - S. Roush 250-395; L. Wallace 111-256; C. Wallace 134-349. Good Games and Series Boys - W. Arnold 199-468; J. Clous 143-371; T. Cheeseman 108-294; C. Stout 145; S. Stout 131-310; K. Kavanagh 130. Sunday Night Mixed You’re Up N Shit 44; Stree Bowlers 44; Eastsiders 43; Sandbaggers 42 1/1; Straightliners 42; Rollin Olins 35 1/2; Sunday Snoozers 33. Women’s Good Games and Series - J. Rice 191-524; M. Simpson 197-486; F. Ames 188-459; K. Plett 130-365; C. Larsen 168; A. Hubbell 165; M. Olin 149. Men’s Good Games and Series - B. Allen 212-534; B. Heath 234-482; J. Shoebridge 219; C. Posner 215; B. Hubbell 203; M. Strong 158. 77565653 �Page 18 — Thursday, February 2, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Specialty crop is hopping ahead by David DeDecker Staff Writer Jeff Steinman stands in an old, wet field amid decaying corn stalks and speaks of his family’s dream to farm and make Barry County the hops mecca of the Midwest. Steinman and his wife, Bonnie, have purchased 39 acres in Hickory Corners and will start installing trellises for their crop this spring, followed by planting the perennial vine in mid-May. Hop Head Farms will begin their operation by installing 20-foot poles with cable, similar to grape trellises, on 15 acres of the farm. “This started back in 2007 as an investigation by my wife and I, whether or not we could successfully grow hops in Michigan,” said Hops cones are the end product of a successful growing season. (Photo courtesy of Jeff Steinman) The abandoned telephone building in Hickory Corners is base camp for the new hops growing operation, Hop Head Farms. Hops plants grow skyward on trellises. (Photo courtesy of Jeff Steinman) 77565509 A Hickory Corners farm will install trellises similar to these at Old Mission Hops Exchange near Traverse City. Trellising is needed for the cultivation of hops. (Photo courtesy of Jeff Steinman) Steinman. “I have a horticultural degree from Michigan State University, and my wife has worked with plants and gardening her whole life. She started at Frank’s Nursery and then worked at Kalamazoo Specialty Plants. She then began training the new growers there, and that’s where I met her in 1995. I worked there a couple a years and started at Battle Creek’s Post Gardens in 1998.” Steinman said the combination of many years in the growing and greenhouse industry and the couple’s appreciation for the craft beer industry heightened their curiosity about the cultivation of hops. “There are some world-class brewers here in Michigan,” said Steinman. “We wanted to find something we could do in addition to what we were doing at the time. We wanted to bring in some extra money by doing something we love.” Small breweries have a hard time getting contracts with large growers and processors, he said, and availability is a problem for smaller breweries. “There was an issue where certain varieties [of hops] were unobtainable, and if they were available, they were very expensive. So, we reacted to that need, as did many growers in the Traverse City area and Wisconsin. People started experimenting in small plots with what might work here. “We have been doing that out on a friend’s farm in Delton,” he said. “He has a fallow farm so it is considered ‘organic’ and everything we have grown out there is organic, with minimum input. We have put out numerous varieties to see what does well and what doesn’t. Now, we have made determinations on what performs well in our climate and soils.” Hops are being grown in Michigan, but it is not yet recognized as an agricultural crop. Steinman said he is having success with a combination high alpha and aroma hops that brewers around Michigan. The five varieties he will plant on the Hickory Corners farm are Cascade, Centennial, Chinook, Magnum and Nugget. According to him, three of the five varieties are most often not available, so if successful, they will have an ample demand. “That’s what we are starting with, but when the market expands, we will add other varieties,” he said. Fifty percent of this year’s harvest will be sold for harvest ales, the rest will be dried whole or pelletized. Hop Head Farms plan to have a small pelletizer this year, and go with a full-scale set up in 2013. While discussing the start-up of the farm, Steinman said the average cost for a beginning hops farmer is $8,000 to $15,000 per acre. Hop vines takes three years to mature. In a good year, after the plants are mature, Steinman expects to harvest more than 10 tons of hops from his 15 acres. “It’s costly, so many people are starting with an acre or less,” he said. “Out West, the farmer doesn’t get much for his crop; the processor gets more. We are trying to work the middle ground by both growing and processing.” According to Steinman, big brewers can purchase hops from Western growers for about $8 to $9 a pound. That price, he said, is not really sustainable in Michigan, and hops grown here would need to bring a higher price, probably $10 to $14 a pound. Craft brewers use an average of one pound of hops to brew 30 gallons of beer. The Steinmans have been talker to Michigan brewers in anticipation of their yields. The couple will be constructing a storage building this year for a new harvester and vacuum packing operation. In 2013, another building will be constructed which will be climate controlled and have freezer units for storage. He explained that when a hop cone is pelletized, it becomes a food product, which entails many more codes and requirements. “This year we will have a brand new [hops] picker from Germany ...” said Steinman. “The harvester will pick a half-acre of hops every hour. When it arrives, it will be in two pieces, and we will need to put the top half on the bottom. “We plan on using the equipment to harvest for 40 to 50 acres for other farmers. We are building the equipment with the intention of supporting other growers in the region. We want to make Barry County important to the Midwest hop industry. “We like where we live, and we are in the brewing mecca of Michigan. We want to be able to provide local ingredients for local beers,” he added. The Steinmans started their investigation by developing a survey with some simple questions and then visited 20 micro-breweries. They asked questions such as, ‘If you could purchase Michigan hops, would you?’ The brewers all said yes. ‘Would it matter if they were organic or sustainably grown?’ The brewers said the product didn’t need to be organic, just grown responsibly. Brewers also told the Steinmans they were set up for hops in pellet form, but some could use the whole cone. But, they also told him they need consistently high-quality hops. “The equipment we are purchasing and the scientific methodology we use will ensure quality and consistency,” said Steinman. “We are going to install drip irrigation to deliver the right amount of water and nutrients and will conduct periodic soil and tissue sampling to make sure the crop is getting exactly what it needs. “We won’t be pursuing certified organic status, but we will use organic methods wherever possible. Even on our small experimental plot, weed control was very difficult. The weeds compete for nutrients and space, so you are constantly spending time on mowing and weed control. We will use the combination of minimal pesticide application — soft pesticides like soaps and oils where possible — and biological controls. Last year, the Steinmans received a grant that allowed them to triple the experimental yard from one-fifth to three-fifths of an acre to study biological disease and insect controls in an organic system. Hop Head Farms is also seeking Michigan Agricultural Environmental Assurance Program certification. This involves setting up the farm with the least potential for environmental problems, such as not storing pesticides next to wells and other common-sense steps to make sure the farmer is being environmentally responsible. “We want to be a good neighbor,” concluded Steinman. For more information on Hop Head Farms go to www.hopheadfarms.com. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-02-09.pdf d8dccd0d3947c951bacc1d4c0abfe006 PDF Text Text Groos tells of early industries in Hastings Sounds of California showcases local talent Trojans finish perfect season of Gold duals See Story on Page 5 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 16 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 6 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, February 9, 2012 County board goes another round over land planning changes NEWS BRIEFS Millage information session is tonight The Hastings Board of Education will conduct an informational session on a proposed 10-year 1.6-mill recreational levy this evening, Thursday, Feb. 9, at 7 p.m. in the Hastings High School lecture hall, 520 W. South St. If approved by voters during the Tuesday, May 8, school election, the millage would return $799,00 to the district’s general fund for the 2012-13 school year. Bands join for concert tomorrow The Thornapple Wind Band invites the public to its winter band concert Friday, Feb. 10, at 7:30 p.m. in the Hastings High School Lecture Hall. The band will be joined by Second Chance, a small combo that performs music from the 1930s through the 1960s. This group is made up of Jim Frazier and Jill Van Zyl, singers; Celia Demond, piano; Larry Wait and Troy Macqueen, trumpets; Mona Thomas, drums; and Dave Macqueen, bass. Macqueen also is the director for this performance by the Thornapple Wind Band. The Thornapple Wind Band consists of more than 40 musicians from area communities, including Delton, Freeport, Lake Odessa, Woodland, Clarksville, Middleville and more. For more information on joining, call Bill Johnson, 269795-3729, or email johnsonbill1971@sbcglobal.net. MVHS hosting College Goal Sunday by Doug VanderLaan Editor In their own version of Groundhog Day, Barry County Board of Commissioners Tuesday chased shadows from the past, then scratched their whiskers wondering where it all got started. After nearly 60 minutes of discussion regarding revisions to the Barry County Farmland Preservation Ordinance of 2002 and a deadlocked vote on the first of two different motions, Commissioner Dan Parker was led to comment, “we’re right back to where we started.” Even after reaching resolution with the second vote, Commissioner Ben Geiger, like most everyone present, was still scratching his head and trying to explain his vote to representatives of the Barry County Agricultural Preservation Board who had placed a proposal revision before the commission. “My supporting vote is not a yes vote for what sits in front of me,” clarified Geiger. Barry Conservation District Executive Director Joanne Barnard, who was part of the agricultural preservation board presentation, was left to ask of the second vote, approved by a 4-2 vote, “What is your direction?” Terpening case receives gag order Assistant Prosecutor Jessica Payne filed motions in two cases involving the People vs. Michael Terpening. Judge Amy McDowell heard the motions in Circuit Court Feb. 2. “I want to make it clear to the court, the People are not requesting a gag order limiting access to court proceedings by the media in this case,” said Payne. “[We are] not requesting the court to preclude the media from recording any information which has come out in open court or as a matter of public record. “There is substantial probability of clear and present danger in both cases, that statements will be continued to be made in this case that affect the rights of both parties to a fair trial.” Payne told the court as soon as the case was charged, statements started to be made about the victims in the criminal sexual conduct cases. She said other statements made were absolutely not true such as police reports being sent out by the prosecutor’s office. Payne said the police report had not been released by the prosecutor. The same day the report was released by the prosecutor’s office, it appeared on television news and the vic- tim’s name could be seen on television. “Why would any victim come forward, especially in a case with two counts of CSC first [first degree criminal sexual conduct]?” asked Payne. “Why would any victim or witness who has any information come forward when they will see their name and police report on the news monitor? Immediately there were messages posted on the Internet attacking this victim.” Payne also asked the court to continue the district court’s gag order on a computer CD containing the victim’s phone number. She stated there have been a tremendous amount of things said about the cases and the victims attacked. The television news media has interviewed the defendant, victims and witnesses. She explained a victim recanted his testimony on television. Payne contended there have been numerous YouTube videos made and posted online. She stated Terpening gave an interview to a reporter from the Village Thinker and said things which are inaccurate, and said evidence has been discussed on the Internet. See GAG ORDER, page 13 Legislative coffee is in Hastings Monday See NEWS BRIEFS continued on page 2 interests and biases. Tuesday’s latest round was during the county board’s committee of the whole meeting. “To say that I haven’t educated myself or that I’m only speaking on behalf of my industry is completely untrue,” said Commission Chair Craig Stolsonburg in response to remarks made by Commissioner Jeff VanNortwick. “I’ve been working with them, with planning and zoning for three years, Jeff, and the feedback I get from the community is that these are two separate issues and should See COUNTY, page 9 Prosecutor responds to motions in recent cases by David DeDecker Staff Writer Over the past several weeks, the Hastings Banner reported on two prominent court cases in Barry County Circuit Court, People vs. James Andrew Kohn (alleged criminal sexual conduct) and People vs. Jason Lee Keiper (alleged murder). In both cases, defense attorney David Gilbert has made motions to strike witness lists and exhibits and to dismiss the cases on the basis of late or incomplete document filings by the prosecutor’s office. In a document received from the Prosecutor Tom Evans, he defends the filing practices by stating, “I have reviewed the 276 criminal cases that were filed in circuit court in 2011. Of those that were set for trial, two had witness lists served less than 30 days before trial. One was because the defendant’s attorney had informed the office of the prosecuting attorney that the defendant was going to plead at the next court date. The second was the Kohn case. In the Kohn case, the court ruled that the 30-day rule had been violated. Our office respects that ruling. As food for thought, it should be added that the 30-day period expired on Dec. 25, 2011, and the notice was filed on the 27th — the next business day for the county clerk’s office.” The prosecutor goes on to state, “The other cases set for trial had witness lists served in advance of the 30-day notice requirement, and on average 109 days before trial.” Gilbert also made reference to the Justin Malik case in which Malik was convicted of killing a sheriff’s deputy, stating the prosecutor’s office again had filing difficulties. The prosecutor addressed Gilbert’s reference by saying, “After reviewing the file and consulting with Mr. Malik’s attorney, both parties agree that all discovery requirements were complied with, a witness list was filed by this office with the court and served on the defense over two years before trial.” In conclusion, Evans wrote, “In the Kohn case, although we felt we had good reason, the court ruled that the witness list in Kohn was not filed properly. We can accept that. But, to pretend that such a case is part of an endemic or habitual problem, to pretend that the office does not scrupulously adhere to the rights of defendants is just not true.” Payment deadline approaches, Barry Township scrambles Feb. 12 from 2 to 4 p.m., Maple Valley High School will again host College Goal Sunday, a nationwide program to help current and prospective college students and their parents complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Putnam District Library in Nashville is a co-sponsor of this event, the second year at Maple Valley. The FAFSA is a requirement for federal aid programs such as Pell grants, subsidized and unsubsidized loans. Financial aid experts from Olivet College and trained volunteers will be available to answer questions. Students who attend the free program are eligible to enter a prize drawing. For more information, visit Putnam District Library or the counseling office at Maple Valley High School, or online sources, such as www.micollegegoal.org, www.knowhow2go.org or www.michigan.gov/mistudentaid. The Barry County Chamber of Commerce will host a legislative coffee beginning at 8 a.m. Monday, Feb. 13, at the County Seat Lounge at 128 S. Jefferson St. Hastings. The event provides an opportunity to hear legislative updates from local, state and federal officials on issues that affect the area. Speakers will give updates from their offices and open the floor for questions. The legislative coffees, which are free and open to the public, are hosted the second Monday of every month from October through May at rotating locations. For more information on these events, call the chamber of commerce 269-9452454 or go online to www.mibarry.com. Commissioners Donald Nevins and Robert Houtman were absent. Tuesday’s exasperating discussion was the latest attempt by the commission to deal with not only updates to the 2002 ordinance, but a proposal to add open space preservation to the original ordinance that deals only with farmland preservation issues. Because some would like to deal with open space preservation as a separate ordinance — apart from farmland preservation that has its own planning and zoning tools — the discussion has become a lengthy and frustrating exercise fraught, some say, with personal Delton Kellogg High names its 2012 Winterfest royalty Seniors Mitchell Wandell and Kami McCowan were named the Delton Kellogg High School Winterfest Duke and Duchess during half-time of the varsity boys’ basketball game against Constantine Friday night. This year’s Winterfest theme was Heroes and Villains. The student council sponsored activities and dress-up days throughout the week. (Photo by Perry Hardin) by Doug VanderLaan Editor Troubling issues surrounding the Southwest Barry County Sewer and Water Authority nearly claimed the term of a second area public official during a meeting of the Barry Township Board of Trustees Tuesday evening “If you vote that you want me to resign, I will resign,” Trustee Roger Turner Jr. told his four colleagues who had raised the prospect of replacing Turner as their representative on the sewer and water authority board, “but I will also resign from this board because I know that this board is no longer functional.” Turner, whose four-year appointment as representative to the sewer and water authority expires March 31, was directly called into question by Trustee Carol Price and Treasurer Judith Wooer. Both Wooer and Price attended a special meeting of the sewer and water authority held a day earlier to discuss how Barry Township might meet an April 1 bond payment deadline that made possible an extension of the system to residents at Fair Lake. A proposal to address an approximate $22,000 bond payment shortfall was forwarded at the Monday meeting by Turner and, from their remarks made at Tuesday’s meeting, neither Price or Wooer felt Turner had represented Barry Township properly. Last week, Linda Eddy-Hough abruptly resigned from her positions as Hope Township clerk and that entity’s representative to the sewer and water authority board amid speculation that it had to do with sewer and water authority issues. Eddy-Hough is said to be out of town on an extended vacation and was unwilling previously to provide any reasons for her resignations. In his remarks at the Barry Township board Tuesday, Turner stated that EddyHough’s action was a “wrench thrown in right at the end when she resigned because of a conflict.” Conflict has characterized the water and sewer authority since its formation in 1993 and which now operates on funding from its four constituent townships: Barry, Hope, Johnstown and Prairieville. Lawsuits and mismanagement, construction cost overuns and mis-estimated growth projections have plagued the system though, in recent years, it has moved toward viability. The latest controversy, however, involves the system’s use of a 1998 bond issue that extended water and sewer service to residents of Fair Lake, in northeast Barry Township. Growth projections in a time of economic exuberance far exceeded the present 99 homeowners hooked up to a system that is not producing the revenue needed to service bond payments. Barry Township’s share of that bond service will be slightly above $350,000 through the year 2017. However, meeting even this year’s payment of $62,097 with available user revenues will leave the township short by just under $22,000. Over the remaining life of the bond, the shortfall for Barry Township is estimated to total $134,000. In a Dec. 7, 2011, letter to sewer and water authority chairman James Stoneburner, the Barry Township Board requested a meeting with the sewer and water authority to “resolve the ‘Anticipated Fair Lake Revenue Shortfall’ Agreement.” On Monday, Turner and Barry Township Supervisor Wes Kahler presented the township’s case as voting members of the fivemember sewer and water authority board. See SEWER & WATER, pg. 6 �Page 2 — Thursday, February 9, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Welding program underway; shop gets facelift by David DeDecker Staff Writer A new vocational training program is up and running in Hastings. Hastings High School and Kellogg Community College have joined forces to offer what many hope is the first of several instructional courses to prepare potential workers for job openings at local manufacturers and businesses. The Hastings Rotary Club welcomed Barry Intermediate School District Superintendent Jeff Jennette and Hastings High School instructor Ed Domke Feb. 6 to speak about the program. Before the guest speakers stepped to the podium, Rotarian Fred Jacobs shared some history and reason for bringing vocational training back to high schools. Jacobs said it all began when the Barry County Futuring Committee was formed in the 1980s. “We studied, through support from MSU, some of the things that were going to impact us in the future,” said Jacobs. “One of the things MSU kept telling us is, ‘If you want Barry County to be a great place, if you want Barry County to have a bright future, you have to plan for it and make it happen.’ One of the things that came out of our research was vocational training. For 30 years now, we have been thinking about vocational training. In recent years, state government has put a great deal of emphasis on going to college. Yet, Barry County has lagged in sending students on to college. I maintain, personally, that 50 percent of the average students don’t go beyond high school. “According to a recent report from National Center for Public Policy and Higher Education, they claim there is too much leakage in Michigan’s educational pipeline. According to the report, of every 100 ninth grade students only 70 graduate from high school four years later. Only 41 students immediately enter college, with only 29 of those still enrolled for a second year. An average of only 18 students graduate with an associate’s or bachelor’s degree. So, here we are in the state of Michigan spending all this money to send all these kids to college, and only 18 percent are graduating. “People are unprepared to go to work when they come out of high school. When I gradu- An unused shop classroom at Hastings High School is being refurbished to house state-of-the-art welding equipment and computers. ated from high school in the late 60s, if kids didn’t go to college, they got jobs with the local manufacturers, and they made good money. They had skills. Kids coming out of high school in those days had a lot of basic skills, and that is what we are missing today. “I talked to the human resources person at Bradford White a few weeks ago and he said he had 25 applications. He picked one, and that one didn’t last three weeks. That’s the problem today. That’s the big deal about attracting industry.” Jacobs said politicians talk about attracting jobs, but industries are attracted by a viable work force. “ If Michigan concentrated on high school aptitude, to turn out kids ready to go to work, you would have no problems attracting industry,” he said. “They would move here, because that’s what they can’t find. “By partnering with local businesses like Gilmore [Car Museum], Pennock [Health Services] and now Hastings High School, we Shelby Vandermel helps turn a frown upside down by painting the dirty white classroom walls a shiny gray. Chad Reedy will be taking the new welding course. Here, Reedy helps paint the new welding classroom. can teach best practices by engaging community members to help us support and guide our youths. By working together with our educational system, we can turn out employable youths with the skills they need to enter the world of work.” Continuing the same line of thinking, Jeff Jennette spoke of a projection that claims in the next five years, local manufacturers and businesses will have a huge need for certified welders. He said with retirements in the next five years, industry officials know they will need more welders. “We have a small vocational committee which meets monthly with representatives from Kellogg Community College, Michigan Career and Technical Institute, Michigan Works, Fred Jacobs and Gene Haas, which is basically a pretty good group of people,” said Jennette. “We have really accomplished a lot in the last couple of years.” Jennette said the collaboration between Hastings High School and Kellogg Community College will use facilities already Barry Intermediate School District Superintendent Jeff Jennette speaks to Hastings Rotary Club members about community collaborations that resulted in a new vocational training course. This shop classroom at Hastings High School is the new home of a dual-enrollment class that will train 20 students at a time in the fundamentals of welding. High school students can earn college credits and become certified welders. available in the community. One such resource is the empty shop classrooms at Hastings High School. “One of the greatest things is that the president of Kellogg Community College started out as a welder, was a welding instructor, now he’s the president of the college,” said Jennette. “When he looks into that old machine shop classroom at Hastings High School, he sees more than welding. We have welding now, but what will we have next? He’s got that vision. It’s going to be a huge program in the next five to 10 years, which will be great for our community. “The reason this welding program is going to be dynamite is because it is located here,” Jennette said. “If you wanted a welding certificate, you needed to go to Grand Rapids [Community College] or to Battle Creek. Some people who want the certificate just don’t have the transportation.” Jennette and Jacobs agreed that one of the most successful educational collaborations in Barry County is the Gilmore Car Museum Garage Works program. “We have 25 kids working on five different vehicles,” said Jennette. “One of the vehicles is Charlton Park’s 1909 Buick, and they are taking it right down to the bare bones to fix it for Charlton Park. That program is meant for at-risk kids. “My definition of an at-risk is every kid in school is only one peer away from being atrisk. It could be a girlfriend, boyfriend, locker mate, chemistry mate — that sort of thing. “Last year there were eight Garage Works kids who graduated from high school. Four of them joined the military. One of them is a girl from Comstock who is in the Navy fixing airplane fuselages. The other four kids from the program are attending college. One is in the auto tech program at [Kalamazoo Valley Community College]. One is in the nursing program at KCC.” The third speaker at the luncheon was Ed Domke. Domke is a long-time agriscience and trades instructor at Hastings High School. Several of his students have already signed up for the certified welder course. “I am very excited we can offer another opportunity for students,” said Domke. “I think it is really important we keep our educational system diversified. I think with this welding program, we are going to allow another segment of our population to find a passionate niche in their life. Jeff and I know a young man who was in high school and he was struggling and struggling. The Garage Works program came along and that was the kid’s niche. He got involved with the program, and everything else fell in place. “It doesn’t matter if you want to be a doctor or a welder. These programs are set up to take you to whatever level you want to go,” added Domke. “A lot of the programs we talk about are the hands-on skilled trades, but they really allow people to move way beyond that. We may be talking construction trades, but that person may end up running a multi-million dollar construction company. Some of the students in the welding class are looking to be engineers.” Domke said the welding program started out as a brainstorm, talking to the community, to KCC and Hastings school district staff. He said the dialogue showed businesses are losing their welders, and young students are interested in welding. “We saw we had a win-win situation,” said Domke. “The students were on fire; they were ready to go and were asking me when it would start. They received the green light from KCC and Hastings and were scheduled to begin the program yesterday, Feb. 8. Classes now meet Monday and Wednesday evenings. Students will be learning arc, MIG and TIG welding. “I think the community is a really big factor in this. If there is a need for something, this community pulls together and makes it happen. When our school systems are hurting financially, the community has stepped up to the plate and provided an opportunity for students.” Jennette and Domke said the program takes on lots of faces and serves many youths in different capacities. Future vocational training programs may include a certified nursing assistant program and a food service or culinary program. For more information on the welding program and others, contact Jeff Jennette at 269945-9545 ext. 111. Student Joe Krebs will be taking the new welding class. Krebs is one of the many volunteers to paint the course’s new home. Hastings High School instructor Ed Domke speaks to the Hastings Rotary Club about student enthusiasm for the new welding program. 77565705 Brett Thomas pitches in to paint the old machine shop classroom at Hastings High School. Thomas will be one of the participants in a welding class, and gain college credit from Kellogg Community College. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 9, 2012 — Page 3 Classes, testing available for new GED program Continued from front page Breakfast will have smoke-free focus The Community Breakfast Tuesday, Feb. 14, will provide solutions for quitting smoking. Guest speakers will be Anne Barna, health analyst for the Barry-Eaton District Health Department, and Heather Sanders, certified tobacco-cessation counselor and a member of Tobacco Free Michigan. They will present the Barry County Tobacco Use Data and how to help families prepare to quit or make a commitment to quit using prevention strategies and initiatives available in the community. The free breakfast will be at the First United Methodist Church, 209 W. Green St. in Hastings, from 8 to 9 a.m. Those who plan to attend are asked to call 269-945-6190. Public can learn about natural features inventory Brad Slaughter of the Michigan Natural ❤ YOU ARE MY MORNING CUTIE FACE Oh how I love you. Happy Valentine’s Day to my Georgia Brown. Lovin’ you always and forever ... Grandma, Papa Office of Community Corrections Administrator Jeff Westra and GED instructor Debi Kruse are ready to get the new program underway. by David DeDecker Staff Writer The Barry County Office of Community Corrections announced Feb. 1 that General Education Development preparatory classes are now being offered to the community on a limited basis. The class provides individualized group instruction intended to help individuals interested in taking the GED tests. The first testing date is Feb. 9, and testing will be offered once a month. The tests consist of five sections, including math, language arts, science, social studies and reading. Each section is administered at different times on test days. “I am very excited about the program,” said Barry County Circuit Court Judge Amy McDowell. “We can use this in our court programs. There will also be a class and testing site in the jail. People who are incarcerated can start the program while in jail and continue to pursue their GED when they are on probation. They will be ordered to get there GEDs as part of probation. I am hoping it will help people be successful in finding employment.” Classes are primarily held at the Office of Community Correction in the Barry County Courts and Law Building in Hastings. Community class times run from 9 to 11 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays. Residents interested in taking classes must call the Barry Intermediate School District MichiganWorks office to receive a referral for program participation. “A lot of people come into the program with poor opinions of education because they have not been successful,” said Debi Kruse, who has been hired as the instructor. “I am excited because I have an education background, but I have also been doing an internship at [Barry] Community Mental Health. I am doing some social work and cognitive behavior therapy and am able to change some negative thinking into positive thinking. “Early in my teaching career, I taught GED courses for about six months in Toledo, before moving up here. Then I taught eighth grade English and career education for seven years. Primarily, people come into the course with deficiencies in math, writing and language arts, she said, adding that fractions, decimals and percentages are the areas where most people need refresher instructions. Punctuation and homonyms, such as there, their, and they’re, are also areas to work on, she added. To obtain a GED, students need to pass at a level of 60 percent of national high school graduate proficiency. Bringing the GED testing to Hastings was a collaborative effort between the Barry County Office of Community Corrections and BISD. Officials from both groups knew that getting a GED program in Hastings was important to the people they serve, so they applied for grants. “We know this is a need in Barry County and it is nice to see it become a reality. We believe it will be very successful,” said OCC Administrator Jeff Westra. The Michigan Office of Corrections awarded Barry County a grant to provide tutoring for GED preparation and supplies; the Michigan Department of Education awarded the Barry County Jail a grant to provide GED testing services to inmates of the jail. “This program will also help with some of our state priorities,” said Westra. “We need to keep our prison commitment rate down. We need to keep our jail empty, and this program will help do that. Each inmate can earn time off from their sentence based on their involvement with this program. “Obviously, individuals getting their education will be a huge, key piece in this,” he continued. “We are looking at around an 85 percent success rate. When you look at individuals at risk and in need, oftentimes education is a high need, because they aren’t going to be able to go out in the community and get a decent job. They may be able to bounce around and do menial labor jobs. This program will help them better themselves and put them in a better position to be more productive in society.” The GED program is funded through a three-year grant from the Michigan Office of Community Atlternatives, and funding is limited. The local OCC is reaching out to the community for any assistance that may be provided — in the form of office equipment, school supplies, or a financial endowment. Donations already have been received from Flexfab, Michigan Fiberglass, Walmart, and Spartan Stores. “The donations we have received to date are greatly appreciated and will go directly to helping students earn their GED,” said Westra. “It has been encouraging to see the outpouring of help from individuals and local businesses. We have a community that cares about the education of its citizens. [Barry County] Transit was willing to offer our students reduced rates to help accommodate the program.” To learn more about the program, call BISD, 269-945-9545, ext. 114. For more information on donating to the GED program call Westra, 269-945-1431. Emergency funding available to local groups Deadline to apply is Feb. 17 Barry County has been awarded federal funds under the Emergency Food and Shelter National Board Program. The county will receive $7,749 to supplement emergency food and shelter programs in the area. The selection was made by a national board that is chaired by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and consists of representatives from the Salvation Army, American Red Cross, Council of Jewish Federations, Catholic Charities USA, National Council of Churches of Christ in the USA and United Way of America that will provide the administrative staff and function as a fiscal agent. The board was charged to distribute funds appropriated by Congress to help expand the capacity of food and shelter programs in high-need areas around the country. A local board made up of representatives of the Salvation Army, Barry County Commissioners, Hastings Area Ministerial Association, Continuum of Care, Commission on Aging and Barry County United Way will determine how the funds awarded to Barry County are to be distributed among the emergency food and shelter programs run by local service organizations in the area. The local board is responsible for recommending funds available under this phase of the program. Under the terms of the grant from the national board, local governmental or private voluntary organizations chosen to receive funds must be a nonprofit; have an accounting system and conduct an annual audit; practice non-discrimination; have demonstrated the capability to deliver emergency food or shelter programs; and, if it is a private voluntary organization, it must have a voluntary board; have a DUNS number and a federal employer identification number. Qualifying organizations are urged to apply. Barry County has previously distributed emergency food and shelter funds with Maple Valley Community Center of Hope, Living Waters Church of Hastings, Our Lady of Great Oaks Food Bank, Middleville United Methodist Church, St. Ambrose Church, Barry County United Way, Green Gables Haven, Manna’s Market and Freeport United Methodist Church. Barry County United Way must receive the request for funding no later than Friday, Feb. 17. Prospective recipients should mail or fax the request to Barry County United Way, Attention Morgan Johnson, PO Box 644, Hastings, MI 49058; or send it by fax, 269945-4536. Further information on the program is available by calling Johnson at Barry County United Way, 269-945-4010. ❤ ❤ ❤ MARK, B’TROY, LYLE, KAILA, JESS, TROY, DEZ, JAKE, HAILY, JAY, AMBER, ANDI, “BLAKE”, ASHLY My favorite Valentines forever. I am so proud always. Granny Teri THE BARNEY ADAMS CLAN or Happy Birthday to our Dad & Mom, Barney (Feb. 27, 1923, passed Aug. 27, 1988) & Glenna Adams (Dec. 5, 1924, passed Dec. 22, 2011). Married Dec. 24, 1942, Ill. Moved to Wayland, Mich. 1945. Oldest daughter Janice Kaye Adams, age 2, now 68 & Sherree Statler are residents of Hastings, Mich. since Nov. 17, 1907. Down by the creek one Easter day we did go – Just to get our picture took for Mother’s & Father’s day. What a bunch of cutups, why we didn’t get wet, I’ll never take a guess. We weren’t really dressed. Just a unplanned Hanky Pank like some of the rest of our stunts. Known in Wayland since we were a whole bunch of little runts - Off Comerce St. - Red town - Cowbell USA With our beginning. What Kind of stink did you think we’d make? All eight of the town Cop Barneys Bunch! Never late for lunch. Those Adams boys got a little bigger and taller than some - not to mess with, just like their dad the cop - You better behave or else he may hang you on a coat hook, by your suspenders, til’ you decide not to give any more black eyes or to get drunk. As girls go we got the short end of the stick! The boys never gave us a chance - Except for our strawberry blonde. She’s a right pretty thing and her birthday is Feb. 26, just near her daddy’s Feb. 27. Who’s already gone home. Author of Song & Info Janice Kaye Adams Statler Oldest of 8 Children HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY “TO LIMPING LENA” How about a lunch date? Old Friend, F.M. HAPPY VALENTINE’S TO OUR SPECIAL GRANDKIDS – Zack, Austin, Sammy Jo, Alex, Ashton, Alexis, J.T. Love ... Papa, Nancy HAPPY VALENTINE’S SILVER FOX Your Loving Wife FRANK Miss you every day. Feb. 10th was our day. Would have been 52 years. Love ... Mae JEFFREY BYKERK HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY Love you so very much. Love ... Laura HAPPY VALENTINE’S TO MY PEACHY TRUCKER You are the best to me. Love ... Me Mo ❤ S — Thanks for always being there when I need you. Love you more ... B AZARIA RYLEI Love you bunches! Happy Valentine’s Day to the most precious granddaughter. Love ... Grandma Cuddahee ❤ BARNEY It’s not that I can’t live without you ... It’s just that I don’t even want to try. My love always for you, Lori JASON I love you like crazy, son. ‘Cuz I’d go crazy without you. I’ll always love you ... Mom LIFE IS SO MUCH SWEETER WITH OUR CHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN IN IT – Adam and Kady (Halsey) Brauer, Derek and Kim (Halsey) Ripley, Shelby Lynn, Bradley Ryan and Ryleigh Rose Ripley. Happy Valentine’s Day! We love you ... Dad and Mom, Papa and Nana JODY, KERI, AUSTON, LOGAN Love puts the fun in together, the sad in apart, and the joy in a heart. Love to you always ... Mom JACOB, STACEY, MORGAN, BLAKE A hundred hearts would be too few to carry all my love for you. Love always ... Mom TO OUR DEAR DAUGHTER KATIE BUG We love you very much... ❤ Mom and Dad HON ... HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY! Only 6 months to go! I love you ... ATWTTWTAB HAPPY VALENTINE’S AND BIRTHDAY POOH! You are an amazing wife and mother and we love you with all our hearts. Love ... Justin, Bear, Little J and Pookie WE LOVE YOU AUNT NANCY (COUNT) BROWNE You are truly special. Ronda and “older” sister Pat HAPPY 84TH MOM (CAROLYN THOMAS) We love you ... Marty, Joyce, Tina, Jay, Jen, Chris, Ceara, Chris, Cody, Rylee, Kylir DREW AND ALEX Happy Valentine’s Day! Love you ... Mom (BG) ❤ ❤ HONEY Roses are red, violets are blue. I miss your arms around me and those sweet kisses, too. ❤ DEAREST ONE HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY Michael, Minika, Aubrey Anna, Douglas, Tracy, Sophia, Summer, Megan, T.J., Sarah, Tucker. We love you very much. Love ... Mom and Dad and Bobo SWEETIE PIE MOM HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY! We love you! Richard, Ricky, Trixie, Amanda, Stephanie and Heidi TO MY SWEET MISS MEYA Happy Valentine’s Day. I cherish every minute I get to spend with you! Love always .... Mema TO MY BRAVE TROY I love you and miss you. Happy Valentine’s Day. Can’t wait to see what God will bring. Love always ... Mom ❤ ❤ TO TIM & JESSIE Happy Valentine’s Day, I’m so happy for you both. Love always ... Mom ❤ TO LAURA SZCZEPANEK You are my strength, the loving spirit that lights the path in my life. Happy Valentine’s! Jeff Bykerk I LOVE YOU AARON Mom JP You are my dream, my love, my future. I love you and will wait for you. Love ... Sweet Pea ❤ AMANDA / MOM You are the love of our lives. We are family. We all have a past and look forward to the future. Please be our Valentine always and forever. Love, your family ... Kaylee, Georgia, Riley, Mom HEY GOMER Give Goober a look fer! COLE, JJ, ANNA We love you big as the sky. ❤ Mom and Dad DEANA I’ve seen many things beautiful in my life, but nothing comes close to the way I feel when I’m in your arms. Love you ... Scrunchy ROSES ARE RED, VIOLETS ARE BLUE You know you’re our Kaylee Bug thru and thru. Happy Valentine’s Day. Lovin’ you always and forever Kaylee Brown. Love ... Grandma, Papa ❤ BABYDOO I love you so much. You mean everything to me. You’re my best friend, my one and only. 8.4.11 ROSES ARE RED, VIOLETS ARE BLUE You are my big buddy and grandson, too. Happy Valentine’s Day Riley Barton. Love always and forever ... Grandma, Papa Features Inventory will provide a virtual tour of Michigan’s unusual and rare environmental communities at Pierce Cedar Creek Institute Saturday, Feb. 11, beginning at 12:15 p.m. During this free program, Slaughter will show why the systems are rare and their conservation important. The public is invited to the program, which is the same day as the institute’s Sunday brunch; however, participants do not need to attend brunch to enjoy the free program. Seatings for brunch will be at 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Pre-registration and payment are required for brunch. Call 269-721-4190 for reservations, or go online, www.cedarcreekinstitute.org. ❤ JEREMY, KAILEE, CLARISSA, HOPE, LAUREN To love and win is the best. I won when you came into my life. Love to you always ... Mom ERIC All you need is love. All I need is you. Love always ... Mom CORY You make my heart glow. I love you ... Grandma Lori ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ Dad what a legacy of love and laughter you left - No one anywhere from South to Far North will forget you - your jokes all the B.S. Big fish and hunting stories. You always got the biggest and best. Now dear dad, I’ve found someone like you - surely sent from heaven! Free, at a time I needed him most. I know as you look down from above. What a fine job you’ve done for this Barney Adams Clan even though you’re not here yet. You can just bet, we all still remember how you always showed your love and made us tow the rope- and to paddle our own boat. Happy 72 birthday. I’ll know you can still hear me singing. Love ... Kayelea Janice K. Statler Nickname & Book & Songwriter’s Name ❤ ❤ �Page 4 — Thursday, February 9, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? The unseasonably warm temperatures and views like this one of Wanadoga Creek in Assyria Township could kick off an early case of spring fever. Thanks to Charlene Cheney who spotted this Barry County gem east of M-66 on Huff Road where you could sit on a bank and feel like the days of summer are just around the corner. Sounds of California were big hit in Hastings We’re dedicating this space to photographs that represent the beauty of Barry County taken by readers like Charlene and by members of our own staff. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email us at news@j-adgraphics.com. Do you know? Do you recognize these people or know why their photo was taken? Is the woman in the middle the daughter of the couple? Was the photo taken because of some achievement of the daughter or were the older two celebrating a milestone anniversary? Or is the younger woman not related at all — say, a former exchange student who made a return visit? Do you recognize the home? The curtains, furniture, carpeting and wallpaper are all floral designs, and the fireplace appears to be art deco in style. What can you tell us about this photo? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@j-adgraphics.com, or call 269-945-9554. Last week’s photo mystery was solved by Gene and Margie Haas of Hastings. The photo, which includes an unknown salesman (far left) and Eugene “Ernie” Haas Sr. and Genevieve (Fisher) Haas, was taken in September 1946. Genevieve was the winner of a contest for which she had to write in 50 Have you words or less why she liked using Robin Hood Flour. For her winning entry, the Haases received a Frigidaire refrigerator. The couple lived in Mendon at the time, and Margie said she wasn’t sure where the photo of her in-laws was taken. Just over a year prior to that, Ernie had returned from serving in the U.S. Army in World War II. They were married in October 1945 and moved to Hastings in June 1949, where Ernie worked as a postman. In the photo, Genevieve is barely showing that she was seven months pregnant with their oldest child, Gene, now a member of the Hastings school board. met? Life enrichment coordinator is more than a title for Betty Raber, it’s a way of life. Betty has coordinated all sorts of events and projects for residents of Woodlawn Meadows Retirement Village in Hastings for 10 years. But in a way, she says they are enriching her life. “I love learning from the residents,” she says, “history comes alive through them.” Betty tells the story of two ladies reminiscing while playing cards. “They started laughing, talking about chasing ice wagons and breaking off chunks of ice. They became teenagers again as I listened to them.” Betty has been married to her high school sweetheart, Mike, for 41 years. They are graduates of Creston High School in Grand Rapids who relocated to Middleville where they have lived for 25 years. Betty has two grandchildren, and a third one is due Valentine’s Day. “I think grandchildren are the best,” she laughed. “Mine are the best of course. Everyone should be a grandparent.” When the day comes to retire, Betty plans to volunteer . . . but where? “My husband and I will volunteer at nursing homes. My mom is in a facility in Grand Rapids. I call out the bingo when I’m there.” For her playful spirit and admiration of seniors, Betty is a Barry County “bright light.” Favorite movie: I have several. “Walk in the Clouds,” “The King’s Speech,” “War Horse,” and “The Notebook” — I always cry, but I love it. My favorite teacher: Mr. Forwood and Mr. Dow, my junior high math and science teachers. They worked really hard to help us and made the classes interesting. They were just nice men. In high school, Mrs. Ward, my typing teacher, wrote in my yearbook, “Remember, silence is golden.” I always talked through her typing class. Books I would recommend: I love Francine Rivers. “Redeeming Love,” is probably my favorite book. It is based on the For the sixth consecutive year, a group of local musicians filled the area below the dome at the First United Methodist Church in Hastings with a crowd of more than 500 who enjoyed an evening of “Songs of California.” The concert is in its fifth year as a memorial to the beloved Hastings teacher and principal Mary Youngs, who died Feb. 19, 2006, following the group’s first concert. Shortly after Youngs’ death, her husband Steve Youngs, who directs and performs in the show, along with members of his family, decided to start a special educational scholarship in Mary’s honor, using donations from the show to help fund the scholarship, which is administered by the Barry Community Foundation. So for the past five years, the event had continued produce great shows in memory of a special person while providing a great opportunity for local musicians to share their talents. Mary is remembered as a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, educator, friend and inspiration to so many who knew her. She enjoyed music and live concerts, which challenges the group to produce a special event year after year. The concert is based on a theme selected by Steve Youngs who also chooses most the music to be performed. The first year’s theme was a Ticket to Broadway, followed by a Ticket to Hollywood and then a Road to Nashville. This year’s theme was Songs of California, featuring songs such as “Surfer Girl,” “Wipe Out,” “California Sun,” “Act Naturally,” “I Left My Heart in San Francisco” and “California Dreamin’” just to name a few. You’ve probably heard many people say there’s a lot of talent in Barry County. Well, it’s true. Throughout the county, there are numerous groups — from church choirs, barber-shoppers, vocalists, high school groups and musicians of all kinds willing to use their talents at a minute’s notice. There are performing groups such as The Revue in Nashville, the Thornapple Players in Hastings and the Village Players of Middleville. And, if you’re looking for a Big Band sound, the Thornapple Jazz Orchestra, formerly Les Jazz, will fill the bill, or the Thornapple Wind Band for traditional music. If you want a large choir – the Lakewood Choral Society tops the list. The local gospel, folk and bluegrass groups are hard to keep up with since many individuals belong to more than one group. At least three local churches have handbell choirs. Several residents perform with opera and symphony groups in the bigger surrounding cities. And this is just a partial list of the wealth of talent we have among Barry County residents. The “Under The Dome” musicians work hard each year to feature songs people love to hear. Since a special scholarship was set up in Mary’s honor, the event also features What do you Old West and mirrors the story of Hosea the prophet who married a prostitute. What do you like best about working with the elderly: The vast array of talents and personalities show in their paintings, quilts and collections. My biggest challenge: Our oldest son, who passed away at 8 years old of a brain aneurysm. He was here and then he was gone. He was the first helicopter transport out of Pennock Hospital. The Lord got me through. Favorite childhood memory: There were six of us, and my parents. On Sunday nights we would have ice cream. Mom would slice it into eight servings, and we would all watch the Wonderful World of Disney. Favorite ‘girl’ trip: My daughter and I never liked to shop, so we would take trips to a museum or the capitol in Lansing. We would get a hotel room, swim in the pool and order room service to bring us breakfast in bed. Unforgettable childhood memory: My older brother Bob tied me up in a cemetery near where we lived in Grand Rapids because he wanted my allowance. He told me he would leave me there and at night spiders would come out and climb all over me. (Pause) I still like that brother today. Each week, The Banner profiles a person from the community working behind the scenes, whose efforts may not make headlines, but whose dedication makes Barry County shine. We’ll provide a quick peek each week at some of Barry County’s stars. Do you know someone who should be featured? Send information to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@jadgraphics.com. Fred Jacobs, vice president, J-Ad Graphics think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. And don’t forget to use our new feature, leave us an opinion or comment. Betty Raber the student scholarship winners to be a part of the concert. This year’s scholarship recipients were 2011 Hastings High School graduates Steven Maurer and Patricia Garber, who showed off their talents with the Sonny and Cher song, “I Got You, Babe.” And, since 2008, former state representative and now Lt. Gov. Brian Calley has been on hand to add his keyboard and singing talents to the group. This year, Calley brought his brother John along to accompany him on the guitar. It was a great event, made possible by a number of dedicated supporters who continue to take part in the annual event by offering their time and talents. The Methodist church and its beautiful domed sanctuary make a perfect venue for the event. The congregation provides tremendous support. Church member Steve Steward also handles the sound and lighting system and performs in the show with the church’s praise band, Fish Headz. Without Steward’s expertise and special equipment, it would be hard to produce the level of professionalism they are able to achieve each year. From beginning to end, it wouldn’t be possible without the dedicated community members willing to give of their talents to make the annual event something to look forward to. Other performers included Chase Youngs, Maggie Doherty, Gene Greenfield, Larry Gidley, Jenny Stafford, Doug Acker, Erin Merritt and myself. And, Maiden Voyage was also on hand again this year to perform a couple of songs. The Fish Headz band also includes Kyle Steward, Brandon Johnson, Jill VanZyl, Ellyn Main, Jim James and Margaret Hollenbeck. Additional musicians included Beth Lepak on violin, Tom Alderson on drums, State Rep. Michael Callton on the harmonica and Holly Bolthouse, piano. Again this year, John Merritt was on hand to introduce the songs. As you read through our publications each week, you will find stories and advertisements for local groups of musicians, individuals or a choral groups performing somewhere in the county. Why do you think we have so many talented people? I think it has a lot to do with the area schools and their music, band and drama programs giving our young people the start they need, along with an appreciation of music that can last a lifetime. In the words of Daniel Romano, a Canadian visual artist and musician, “Music is the hardest kind of art. It doesn’t hang on the wall and wait to be stared at and enjoyed by passersby. It’s communication. It’s hours and hours being put into a work of art that may only last, in reality, for a few moments ... but if done well, and truly appreciated, it lasts in our hearts forever. That’s art! Speaking with your heart to the hearts of others.” Last week’s question: Cell phone use in high schools has created distractions and, in one of our area high schools, contributed to a serious disturbance. Should cell phones be banned from Michigan public schools? 76% Yes 24% No FOR THIS WEEK: The Michigan state legislature is struggling to find revenue for road repair and improvements. Though it will still require a referendum vote, the legislature is proposing a 1 percent sales tax increase to be dedicated to road improvements. Would you vote for a 1 percent sales tax to be used exclusively for roads? q q YES NO Give the gift of NEWS! Send friends and family a gift subscription to The BANNER! To subscribe, call us at... 269-945-9554 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 9, 2012 — Page 5 IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV Shopping local helps many bottom lines To the editor: We’re all familiar with the expression “use it or lose it.” To avoid another vacant store front in Hastings, let’s make a concerted effort to shop locally. Beside the convenience, there are many other benefits to the area. Property taxes on the store, as well as taxes on inventory, add to local and state revenue. Many employees of local stores live in Barry County, pay taxes and shop in locally; left without a job, they would qualify for unemployment. Let’s all think about this as we pick up our shopping list and head out the door. Ray and Kate Fitch, Hastings Pratt announces candidacy for Barry County prosecutor Hastings attorney Julie Nakfoor Pratt announced Feb. 7 her intention to run for the position of Barry County prosecutor in the Aug. 7 election. Pratt has been an attorney for 24 years, 20 of them as an assistant prosecutor, chief assistant prosecutor or the appointed Barry County prosecutor in 2005. She also served as assis- tant prosecutor in Allegan County. According to Pratt’s press release, she has years of trial experience, including cases involving homicide, criminal sexual conduct, home invasion, controlled substances, drunk driving, domestic violence and neglect and abuse cases. Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. The Hastings Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Casey Cheney Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Helen Mudry • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 Groos tells about industry that helped build Hastings by Fran Faverman Staff Writer Guest speaker Richard Groos, retired Hastings businessman, charmed a large audience at the Tuesday evening meeting of the Barry County Historical Society in the courts and law building. Following introductory remarks by Michael Snyder, president of the society, Groos began his presentation with a sketch of his grandfather Emil Tyden, who came to this country in 1880 as an émigré from Sweden. Tyden worked for the railroad and moved steadily west from Chicago to Idaho by 1890. Here, Groos provided some history of the shipping of freight, which was transported in boxcars with large sliding doors on each of the 40-foot long sides. After loading, the boxcars were sealed; the receiver could check at the destination to see if the seals were intact. This method of shipping resulted in a number of issues. Seals were not uniform. Seals did not have serial numbers, and in fact, there was no guarantee that the seals on the doors at the destination were the same as those installed at the point of origin. Tyden began to think there must be a better way, said Groos. Tyden attributed this insight to the task of sealing 50 boxcars in a rainstorm. He began thinking about the problem, and several years later had an idea. It was while visiting a friend in Denver that Tyden met a person from Hastings, who expressed an interest in the idea and said, “Come to Hastings and we will help you start a business.” Tyden came here and not only did he have an idea for a much improved sealing mechanism, he also designed the machinery for manufacturing the seals. According to Groos, it was characteristic of Tyden to design the machinery for the manufacture of the product and to control the process from beginning to end. Becoming a successful manufacturing business was not without its travails; the first building, an old wooden structure was destroyed by fire and was replaced by a brick building on Mill Street. The company limped along until 1900 when Tyden made a trip to Chicago, which was the rail hub of the United States. It was a very successful sales trip; by 1920, Tyden Lock and Seal was making 100 million of the devices a year. The entry of the United States into World War I also provided an impetus to the business. By the end of the war, Tyden was getting bored. And again, he had the good fortune to meet a man who had an idea for an improved dry valve sprinkler system. [There are two kinds of sprinkler systems: the wet valve, which is used in heated buildings, and the dry valve used in unheated buildings. The cost of heating unused buildings during the Depression years made dry valve systems popular; unfortunately they were expensive and prone to failure.] ... It was characteristic of Tyden to design the machinery for the manufacture of the product and to control the process from beginning to end. Richard Groos – Richard Groos Tyden, who had an unused plant, liked the idea. Again he was intrigued by the challenge of making the machinery to make the product. Viking Sprinklers was founded, and as in the process of making the seals, Tyden recognized the opportunities for profit in the control of the manufacturing process. As the economy improved, the nation saw many opportunities for building new facilities and renovating existing facilities which required sprinkling systems. Tyden’s companies did significant amounts of work during World War II, as did the entire industrial complex. The post-war period saw a building boom. Groos returned home from the Korean War in 1955. “I needed a job, so I went to work for Viking,” he said. “I was appalled at the state of the machinery. With some difficulty, we upgraded the machinery and the plant.” In the 1960s, the company began to explore opportunities in Europe; the postwar recovery was far more extensive in Europe and was much slower. Unlike the United States, which had no destruction on the mainland, Europe had large-scale infrastructure needs that were still being addressed. A plant was opened in Luxembourg in the 1980s. He noted that 40 percent of the equipment made in Hastings was exported. His career with the company ended in the 1996 when he retired. During the question and answer period, Groos dealt with some of the issues that he had not commented on in his presentation, namely the presence of an unusually strong local entrepreneurial spirit in Hastings. With the help of fellow businessman Fred Jacobs, who shares Groos’ admiration for early entrepreneurs in Hastings, they talked about early industrialists here. Two brothers, Richard and Chester Messer, were especially noted for the variety of enterprises they supported. They owned Hastings City Bank and were responsible for Tyden becoming the owner of the Hastings City Bank. Groos said his grandfather did not like the fact that Hastings was a one-bank town; “Hastings National Bank became the common man’s bank,” he observed. Among the questions fielded by Groos was one about a foundry. The answer was that Viking had operated a small foundry until the 1970s when environmental regulations and changing technologies such as the development of ductile iron made small foundries economically obsolete. Tyden Seals, it turns out, are still being used by the military and by the U.S. Postal Service. Bryan Reynolds, vice-president of the historical society, thanked Groos, saying, “Since I moved here in 1986, I have learned that anything good happening in Barry County happens because Dick Groos makes it happen.” Groos received a standing ovation from the audience. State News Roundup Former Hastings trooper receives Meritorious Service Award At a special ceremony in Lansing Feb. 3, Michigan State Police Director Col. Kriste Kibbey Etue presented Trooper Aaron Steensma of the of the Niles Post with the MSP Meritorious Service Award for his professionalism and diligence and for going beyond what is typically expected of most law enforcement officers. Steensma was recognized for his role in the investigation of the abduction and murder of Venus Stewart. His initial crime scene response, briefing of responding officers and observations in this case proved to be critical in the successful prosecution of Doug Stewart for the murder of Venus Stewart. In presenting Steensma with the Meritorious Service Award, the MSP Board of Awards recognized that not for his sharp judgment and investigative techniques, the case may not have been solved. Steensma enlisted with the department in 1998, graduating as a member of the 117th Trooper Recruit School. He then served for 18 months with the Hastings post and has served in White Pigeon and Coldwater posts, as well. Weather cancels northern festivals; not so here The Traverse City Record Eagle reports that two major winter events in northern Michigan have been canceled due to the lack of, well, winter. Mild temperatures and absence of snow led to the cancellation of the White Pine Stampede cross-country ski race in Antrim County which usually draws 500 to 600 competitors. The Mackinaw Mush dog sled race at the tip of the mitten has been scrapped, as well. That won’t be the case here for the largest winter event in Barry County: Gun Lake Winterfest. Regardless of the thermometer reading or the snow depth, Winterfest will be next weekend, Feb. 17, 18 and 19. A few events may have to be modified (see related story), but most activities will not be impacted by winter conditions, say organizers. Those same organizers, of course, wouldn’t mind if snow and temperatures fall between now and then, giving a more suitable backdrop to Winterfest. For more information on Gun Lake Winterfest, call the Barry County Chamber of Commerce 269-945-2454, or check the Feb. 11 Reminder. Air Zoo to host program on Tuskegee Airmen In honor of Black History Month, the Air Zoo will host a special presentation about the Tuskegee Airmen, Sunday, Feb. 19, at 2 p.m. Paul Love, an official torchbearer of the Tuskegee Airmen, will give a multimedia presentation about the history and significance of the Tuskegee Airmen, the first African-American airmen in the U.S. military. The Tuskegee Airmen were a part of the Tuskegee Experiment, the Army Air Corps’ program to train African-Americans to fly and maintain combat aircraft during World War II. They included pilots, navigators, bombardiers, maintenance and support staff, instructors, and all of the personnel who kept the planes in the air. This special presentation is included in the price of general admission. For more information about the Air Zoo, located at 6151 Portage Road in Portage, visit www.airzoo.org or call 269-382-6555. Optometrists may now volunteer Gov. Rick Snyder Tuesday signed legislation that allows retired optometrists to obtain a volunteer license, enabling them to provide eye care for uninsured or underinsured Michiganders. Other volunteer licenses already exist for retired medical doctors, osteopathic physicians, podiatrists and dentists. The bill was sponsored by State Rep. Mike Callton. Mechanics can take test at auto expo Saturday Visitors to the Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper Tech Expo in Grand Rapids can take advantage of a testing option for mechanics Saturday, Feb. 11. Secretary of State personnel will offer the automotive and heavy-duty truck mechanic exams at the expo, which draws auto dealers, repair shop technicians and others from across the state to DeVos Place. The department has offered the exams at the expo for the past 12 years, administering more than 4,200 individual mechanic exams during those visits. Between 250 and 350 attendees are expected to take exams at the expo, and will get results sooner Certification testing costs $6 and is open to those attending the expo. Exams will be given as space permits from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Preregistration prior to the expo is required and can be done online at www.avtechexpo.com. In addition to the testing offered, Secretary of State personnel will offer a two-hour training session for repair shop owners, technicians and managers about how to best comply with motor vehicle service and repair laws. Keep your friends and relatives INFORMED! Send them The BANNER To subscribe, call us at... 269-945-9554 �Page 6 — Thursday, February 9, 2012 — The Hastings Banner SEWER & WATER, continued from page 1 Price and Wooer were among the approximate crowd of 15 attendees. After discussing funding options — including an additional special assessment on Fair Lake residents or a tax on all system users — Turner proposed that the sewer and water authority consider use of fees from septage accepted by the system from outside sources. That idea had originated with Eddy-Hough, said Turner, and carried value because the use of septage fees would not involve an additional tax on water and sewer authority users or using general funds to cover losses. Annual septage fees are estimated to be between $200,000 to $300,000. “If the (water and sewer authority) board Worship Together… 77565678 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. ORANGEVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH 6921 Marsh Rd., 2 miles south of Gun Lake, Plainwell. Phone 269664-4377. OrangevilleBaptist. org. Pastors Dan Bowman and Adam Parmenter. Sunday - 9:45 a.m. Adult Classes Offered: 1) Book of James; 2) Book of Jude; 3) Young Adult Class. Children, teen and adult Sunday School classes; 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Worship; 5:30 p.m. Junior and Senior High Word of Life Clubs. Tuesday - 9 a.m. Men’s Prayer and Bible Study. Wednesday - 6:30 p.m. Pre-school through 6th grade Word of Life Gophers & Olympians. Prayer & Bible Study 7 p.m. 6 p.m. Teen Word of Life. Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University - 13 weeks - JanuaryMarch. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Paul Osborn, Minister of Music; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service, Jr. & Sr. High Groups. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. HASTINGS SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH 904 Terry Lane, Hastings (or on the corner of Starr School Road and Terry Lane.) Phone: (269) 9452170. Pastor Michael Wise. Sabbath www.hastingssda.com (Saturday) School 9:30 a.m.; worship service 10:50 a.m. Mid-week meetings informal study and prayer service, Wednesdays 7 p.m. Youth ministry clubs, Adventurers for preschool to 4th grade students and Pathfinders for 5th grade students through high school, meet on the first and third Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. and first and third Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. respectively. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. CHURCH OF THE LIVING GOD A full gospel church. 1240 W. State Rd., Hastings. Pastor Doug Davis. 269-948-9740. Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study 6 p.m. Sunday School and Youth Group for all ages. Come and worship the Lord with us! . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Phone 269-721-8077. Minister Ryan Wieland 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Praise Worship Service; Noon alternate weekends Youth Group Tuesday. Covenant Prayer Group, Wednes-day 6:30 p.m., Choir Practice. Thursday 7 p.m. Praise Band Practice. 2nd and 4th Thursdays at 7 p.m. Christ’s Quilters. Friday 6:30 p.m., CPRChrist’s Plan for Recovery (meal served). For more information small groups, special evnts or if you have a prayer requst, call the church office and see postings on WEB site: www.countrychapel.umc.org. SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North Amer-ica and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Cronk cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 2 p.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-797-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nash-ville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 or -517-852-1806. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS REFORMED CHURCH “A Historic Reformed Commun-ity.” Sunday morning services begin at 10 a.m. Meeting at the Barry County Commission on Aging building, 320 W. Woodlawn Ave., Hastings. Pastor: Peter Adams. 616-690-8609 padams@juno.com. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 9:15 Contemporary Worship, 10:30 a.m. Refreshments, 11 a.m. Traditional Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Pastor of Senior Adults and Visitation, Don Brail. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. for children, youths and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Senior High Youth Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Mid-Week: 6:30-7:45 p.m. Pioneer Clubs, age 4th to 5th grade, and Junior High Youth Group, 6th-8th grade. Thursday: 10 a.m. Senior Adult Discussion and 11:30 a.m., lunch at Wendy’s. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Sunday, February 12 - Worship at 8 & 10:45 a.m. 9:30 a.m. Sunday School. Holy Communion Every Sunday! Men’s AA @ 7:00. Feb. 13 Adventurers Faith Bible Study @ 7:00. Feb. 14 - Staff Meeting @ 2:00; Stewardship COmmittee @ 6:00. Feb. 15 - Wordwatchers Bible Study @ 10 a.m.; Vision Team Book Review @ 7:00. Feb. 16 - Clapper Kids Bell Choir; Hare Raisers @ 7:00. Feb. 17 - Rock Group 6:00 to 10:00. 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 945-2645, fax 269945-2698. Pastor Amy Luckey http://www.discovergrace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 10 a.m. Sunday School for All Ages; 11 a.m. Combined Worship Service 12 p.m. Annual Meeting Luncheon; 1 p.m. Annual Meeting of the Congregation; 6 p.m. Youth Group. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blog spot.com. Thursday - 9 a.m. Men’s Bible Study; 11:30 Women’s Brown Bag Bible Study; 6:30 p.m. Choir Rehearsal. Friday - 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday - 8:30 a.m. Men’s Breakfast; 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday - 3 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball; 6 p.m. NAPS Valentines Program. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Fiberglass Products Lauer Family Funeral Homes 1401 N. Broadway Hastings 945-2471 but I think it does.” Price, who introduced the discussion to replace Turner by stating that “because of all the years and all the effort he’s put in to the sewer and water authority, it’s become tough for him to represent Barry Township,” suggested as the meeting was concluding that “we just move on.” – Roger Turner Jr. Though they never did arrive at a figure with which they’d be comfortable to address the annual bond payment shortfall, the board did approve directing township attorney Ken Sparks to draw up a draft agreement that could be forwarded to the sewer and water authority in time to make the April 1 payment. “I was really disappointed for how they treated Roger,” said Stoneburner, who attended Tuesday’s meeting in hopes of hearing a positive response to Monday’s opening agreement. “Roger brings a lot to the table and he represents Barry Township very well.” Stoneburner explained his negative vote at Monday’s Monday as coming from a concern that residents and authority users not be burdened with the additional financial responsibility of making up the bond payment shortfall. “What would have been fair would have been to do nothing,” he pointed out; “it’s Barry Township’s responsibility. To offer our help was generous, and I hope that they come up with something.” Settlement reached in case of faulty mortgage foreclosures The Michigan State Attorney General Bill Schuette recently announced Michigan will join at least 40 other states in a multi-billion dollar nationwide settlement with five of the nation’s largest banks and mortgage servicers. A national settlement administrator will distribute cash payments to borrowers in Michigan who went through foreclosures from 2008 to 2011. More information will be released later detailing who will be eligible for benefits and how to apply. For a complete report from the state attorney general’s office, visit the Barry County website, www.barrycounty.org, or click on the link to the Michigan Attorney General website. For copies of documents related to mortgages or foreclosures, contact the Barry County Register of Deeds office, 220 W. State St., Hastings, or call 269-945-1289. The Register of Deeds office can be reached by email at bcrod@barrycounty.org. County clerk testifies before legislature Barry County Clerk Pam Jarvis appeared before the Michigan House Judiciary Committee chaired by State Rep. John Walsh regarding a bill that will specify when an application to renew a permit to carry a concealed pistol may be filed. Currently, there is no limited time, and it’s conceivable that a person could apply any time after the current license is issued. “The bill also defines ‘effective date,’” said Jarvis. “The effective date is the date the current license expires or the date the renewal is approved, whichever is later. Currently, the law refers to issue date, which is generally accepted as the date of the gun board meeting. Changing the law to an effective date will allow the renewed license to be effective upon the expiration of the current license or it will be effective on the issue date if the licensee is late in requesting the renewal. “Realistically, no one is going to apply within a year or two of the issuance of an active license. Now, you could have a person in the military apply, be issued a license, get notice they were going to be deployed and apply early to avoid having an expired license. Or, if someone was temporarily going to be relocated to another state, but wasn’t going to make a permanent change of address, they could apply.” The bill was voted out of committee and will appear before the legislature next week. It will be forwarded to the governor for signature following the House vote. Jarvis also 945-4700 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 Vernie Lee Smethers HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, Feb. 9 — Movie Memories celebrates the Oscars with “Rebecca,” 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 10 — preschool story time enjoys Valentine’s Day, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; Teens Lovin’ Chocolate event, 4 to 5:30 p.m.; Nights in White Chocolate (just for adults), 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 11 — VITA tax counseling (by appointment), 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, Feb. 13 — winter reading club for adults continues; computer class tackles online genealogy, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 14 — toddler story time enjoys the stories of Frank Asch, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.; open chess club, 6 to 8 p.m. Call the Hastings Public Library for more information, 269-945-4263. Benefit Dinner for Becky Wheeler Feb. 10th • 4PM to 7PM At the … VFW Hall - Nashville 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 DELTON, MI - James L. Bower, age 68, of Delton, passed away Sunday, February 5, 2012 at his residence. He was born June 25, 1943 in Kalamazoo, the son of Max L. and Opal I. (Sager) Bower. Jim attended Delton High School. He later attended a Sheet Metal Trade School and became a sheet metal journeyman. He worked for Local Union #7, Zone 1. Jim retired as a sheet metal journeyman in 1999. He also worked part time for BJ Hydraulics. Jim married Nancy (Ralph) E. Higgins on January 25, 1964. He was a member of the Thornapple Valley Church. Jim was very active in the Bible study and celebrate recovery programs. He was also a member of Local Union #7, Zone 1. Jim loved the outdoors and spending time with his grandchildren. He enjoyed stock car racing, hunting and fishing. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Max and Opal Bower. He is survived by his wife, Nancy (Ralph) Bower of Delton; three children, Jacqua (Rodney) Dye of Delton, Jim (Kathy) Bower of Hastings, Rebecca (Robert) Kiser of Kalamazoo; seven grandchildren, Wesley Thompson, Rodney Dye, Mandy Dye, Dennis Maynard, Robert, Seth and Mina Kiser; one great-grandson, Austyn Thompson; three brothers, Ronald (Karen) Bower of Kalamazoo, Jack (Maria) Bower of California, Barry (Cheryl) Bower of Delton; and several nieces and nephews. Memorial contributions may be made to Barry Community Hospice, 450 Meadowrun Dr., Hastings, MI 49058 or Thornapple Valley Church, Celebrate Recovery Program, 2750 S. M-43 Hwy., Hastings, MI 49058. A memorial service will be held at Thornapple Valley Church, Thursday, February 9, 2012 at 3 p.m. Pastor Jeff Arnett will be officiating the service. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guestbook or to leave a memory or message for the family. testified before the senate committee chaired by Sen. Rick Jones this past fall. on … Fri., 102 Cook Hastings Area Obituaries James L. Bower “If I was on that board from Prairieville Township or Hope Township or Johnstown Township, I’d be mad as hell right now. I think they did something they didn’t have to do.” BAKE SALE • SILENT AUCTION • 50/50 DRAWING DINNER PROVIDED BY: AMISH WOMEN OF OUR COMMUNITY 77565782 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 decided it would like to contribute,” Stoneburner queried, “there are two questions: How much, and where would the money come from?” Also important to Turner was an affirmation that the sewer and water authority would be willing to assist and then identify a funding level that Turner could take back to his board and that would pinpoint the amount of the remaining shortfall that Barry Township would be required to cover. Sewer and water authority administrator Mark Doster suggested the discussion’s logic about shared cost could be reversed. “This board [sewer and water authority] needs to know what Barry Township is willing to do, too,” said Doster. Stoneburner requested a suggested number, and Kahler responded with a $15,000 bid. It was approved as an annual contribution for a six-year period with Kahler, Turner and Hope Township Supervisor Patricia Albert voting yes. Stoneburner and Johnstown Township Supervisor Barbara Earl cast ‘no’ votes, with Earl noting that two votes came from Barry Township representatives and that “all you needed was one vote.” That was exactly the point Turner made to the Barry Township Board Tuesday in defending his presentation of the township’s need to the sewer and water authority and in imploring his board to get the agreement into a contract. “Judy, you got $15,000 — what do you want?” asked Turner of Wooer Tuesday. “My full goal in that meeting was to get a contribution out of that sewer and water authority. I thought we might get $10,000 but, when Wes made that motion at $15,000, we got more. “If I was on that board from Prairieville Township or Hope Township or Johnstown Township, I’d be mad as hell right now. I think they did something they didn’t have to do,” Turner noted. “We got one vote, and that’s all we needed. If there hadn’t been two Barry Township representatives on that board, it would have gone to a tie or been defeated. So I’m sorry if that doesn’t represent Barry Township and getting this thing [the sewer and water authority] to the point where it can work and is no longer a burden to the townships, but is an asset. I’m sorry if that doesn’t represent Barry Township, Vernie Lee Smethers lost his battle with cancer Monday, Feb. 2, 2012. He was born March 11, 1958. He leaves behind the love of his life, Jennifer Reid of Nashville; son, Vernie Lee Smethers Jr. of Nashville; sisters, Melony Anne Smethers of Texas and Paula Jo McCarthy of Texas; brother, Billy Don (Roxanne) Smethers of Texas; and many nieces and nephews. He enjoyed woodworking, leather crafting, carpentry, and he was a very hard working and loving friend. He will be greatly missed. Call anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads 269-945-9554 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 9, 2012 — Page 7 BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY by Gerald Stein NORTH N: Q 10 4 M: 9 8 6 2 L: 10 9 4 K: A 9 2 WEST All-day, every-day kindergarten planned for the 2012-13 school year We are excited to announce that the Hastings Area School System will have fullday kindergarten for students next year at all elementary buildings in the district. One of the main reasons for this change is the increase number of curricular changes that have taken place over the past few years. Kindergarten students need to know all of their letters in the alphabet and letter sounds by late November. With the schedule we have in place, that goal is not easily accomplished by most of our students. Then by midyear, students need to have books in their hands and need to be reading. Increasing time that they attend will allow us to move them forward toward this goal. What is means is an additional cost of approximately $420,000 for six additional teachers. However, this is an investment compared with the cost of over $800,000 in state aid we would lose by not offering this program. Students need to be identified sooner if they have learning issues, and we can provide them strong, intensive interventions. Research indicates that if a student can’t read by third grade, it is much more difficult for them to catch up. Students who are academically behind their peers need interventions between kindergarten and third grade. Having students attend school every day also allows them to get in the habit of coming to school on a regular basis. Under the schedule we have in place this year, if we have a student ill one day and then a snow day thrown in they might not attend for over a week. More and more data is being collected on students, and this data as compared with other districts that have an all-day, every-day program shows us the need to make this change. We are excited about the prospect and planning for the upcoming year and working hard to bring quality education you have always expected and received at the Hastings Area Schools. Social News N: A 2 M: K 3 L: A K Q J 7 K: J 10 7 3 Ruth Newton will turn 90 on Feb. 20th. Best wishes can be mailed to 266 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897. Corinne Drake celebrates 90th birthday Corinne Drake will be celebrating her 90th birthday. If you would like to send Corinne a birthday wish, you may mail them to 713 S. Church St., Hastings, MI 49058. A family “Detroit Tiger baseball themed” birthday party is taking place for her on Sunday, February 19th at 1 p.m. at Hastings Elks Lodge. SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN Valentine tip for newlyweds by Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, making this a popular time of year for proclamations of love. Such displays of affection can be as simple and sweet as a heart with a “be mine” message, or as life altering as a vow before the altar. If you happen to be a newlywed who is head over heels in love, you may not be focused on things such as taxes or Social Security, but you should be. If you plan to exchange your maiden name for a married name — including hyphenated names such as Smith-Jones — be sure you let the Social Security Administration know. Telling us about your name change shortly after your marriage will help us accurately keep track of your earnings and will ensure that you and your family get the Social Security retirement, disability and survivors coverage you’re entitled to. Also, if the Internal Revenue Service and Social Security records do not show the same name and Social Security number, your federal income tax refund could be delayed. If you continue to use your maiden name consistently throughout your working years, you do not need to contact us. However, if you decide to change your name at a later time, you should let us know so that we can update your Social Security record and send you a Social Security card with your new name. There’s no need to pay someone else to mail in the information for you. Changing your name with Social Security is a quick, easy and free service. Just go online to www.socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber, learn what documents you need, and click on “Fill Out and Print an application (Form SS-5).” You also may call 800-772-1213 to obtain the form. We will need the completed application along with a marriage certificate or divorce decree verifying your old and new names. If you were born outside the United States, you also need proof of your U.S. citizenship or proof that you are lawfully living in the U.S. You may bring or mail these documents to us. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. N: K 7 M: 10 5 L: 8 5 3 2 K: K Q 8 6 5 SOUTH: N: J 9 8 6 5 3 M: A Q J 7 4 L: 6 K: 4 Osborne-Lovequist Larry and Val Osborne of Delton wish to announce the engagement of their daughter, Maureen to George Lovequist, the son of George and JoAnn Lovequist of West Bloomfield. The bride-elect is a graduate of Gull Lake High School, Kalamazoo Area Math and Science Center, and Western Michigan University. She is currently employed with Lakeview Middle School as a Spanish teacher. The groom-elect is a graduate of West Bloomfield High School, Grand Valley State University and Michigan State University. He is currently employed with Amway as a global trade/global transportation administrator. A July 7, 2012 wedding is being planned at the First Presbyterian Church of Richland. Szczepanek-Bykerk Michael Calabrese of Middleville, Douglas Calabrese of Lake Odessa and Megan Calabrese of Delton along with Corwin Bykerk of San Diego, California and Tera Bykerk of Muir, Mich. wish to announce the engagement of their parents, Laura Szczepanek to Sgt. Jeffrey Bykerk. The bride-elect is a graduate of Comstock Park High School and is currently employed with A.F.M. & M.E.S. Petroleum. The groom-elect is a graduate of Comstock Park High School and is retired military policeman. A June 9, 2012 wedding is being planned. Marriage Licenses Ruth Newton turns 90 EAST Asim Altaf, Dubai, United Arab Emirates and Shanna Rae Tietz, Hastings. John Richard DeLeeuw Jr., Middleville and Kathy Downing Matison, Middleville. Troy Allen Finholm, Wayland and Charlene Marie Cline, Wayland. Joshua David Rance, Plainwell and Kassandra Elizabeth Wilson, Grand Haven. Blake Patrick Rankin, Charlotte and Rachel Michelle Ayers, Nashville. Jason William Rose, Middleville and Elizabeth Jane Krestakos, Middleville. Newborn Babies Tehya Tala, born at Pennock Hospital on Jan. 24, 2012 at 1:23 a.m. to Ryan and Kara Boyer of Hastings. Weighing 6 lbs. 10 ozs. and 18 inches long. ***** Nala Marie, born at Pennock Hospital on Jan. 24, 2012 at 3:55 p.m. to Alan and Katrina Smith of Potterville. Weighing 7 lbs. 11 ozs. and 19 1/2 inches long. ***** Shelby Diane, born at Pennock Hospital on Jan. 24, 2012 at 4:59 a.m. to Meagan Chaffee and Houston Malone of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 7 ozs. and 20 inches long. Keep your friends and relatives INFORMED! Send them The BANNER To subscribe, call us at... 269-945-9554 In William Shakespeare’s masterpiece The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark, young Prince Hamlet is confronted with his Uncle Claudius’s wrongful deeds. “The play’s the thing Wherein I’ll catch the conscience of the King,” Hamlet says to himself (Act III< Lines 633634). In today’s bridge hand, Princess South says to herself much the same: “The lead’s the thing Wherein I’ll catch the bidding of the West.” The bidding with South the dealer, North-South vulnerable, went as follows in both played hands: South Pass Pass Pass West 1D 2NT 3NT North Pass Pass Pass East 1NT 3C Pass The contract is 3NT played by East but pushed to the limits by West. Let’s see the Play of the Hand. Princess South looks at her hand carefully and deliberates about the opening lead. Longschooled in playing bridge and especially playing in No Trump hands, she first considers the standard lead of the 4th card down in her longest and strongest suit. That would be, of course, the spade suit with the 6 of spades as her potential lead. But the Princess South knows her Shakespeare, and she knows that the “lead” is the thing a defender must always keep in mind. She looks at her strong heart suit, and she considers the interior sequence of the QJ of Hearts as a potential game-killing lead. Which lead should the Princess South choose? The standard lead or the judgment lead? Let’s look at both scenes in this mini-drama. At Table One, Princess South chooses the usual lead of the Queen of Hearts. East is in trouble immediately. He knows that “Something is rotten in the State of Denmark.” He has no choice but to look at the dummy with all of those diamonds and clubs and know that he is in bridge trouble with that lead. What happens is, of course, a great defensive lead for the NorthSouth team. East covers the Queen of Hearts with the King from the dummy, and North and East both play a heart. A small club from the dummy is led by East in hopes of knocking out the Ace of Clubs allowing him to run the clubs, diamonds, and two spade tricks. North appreciates his partner Princess South’s lead and immediately takes his Ace of Clubs and returns a heart to his partner. The North-South team has won the applause from the groundlings and takes four heart tricks and the ace of Clubs to set the East-West team down one trick for minus 50 points. Happiness reigns in the North-South Kingdom. At Table Two, another South player forgets that she ever head of Shakespeare and relies on the old standby of 4th down from the longest and strongest suit. She leads the six of spades, the East sits back with a huge inner smile. He has escaped the wrath of the North-South team; he takes the Ace of Spades from the dummy, and he immediately leads a small club from the dummy driving out North’s Ace of Clubs. North has already been done. North leads a space back, and East grabs the King in his hand, runs all of the diamonds and all of the clubs and ends up making two overtricks instead of being set. This time the East-West Kingdom is the one who is rejoicing. While one team was rejoicing and one was crying in both scenes from our little drama, the best contract for the East-West team is 5 Clubs making five for a good safe game. Five diamonds goes down one with another spectacular lead of the Ace of Clubs, a club ruff by South, and the Ace of Hearts. “The lead’s the thing!” (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs.) Please note our Special Hours Hastings City Bank Thursday, February 16 we will close at 5:00 p.m. so our staff may attend our annual employee meeting. The Hastings and Middleville drive thrus will be open until 6:00 p.m. Hastings • Caledonia • Middleville Wayland • Nashville • Bellevue Member FDIC 77565790 Ray L. Girrbach Owner/Director 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 • 269-945-3252 Serving Hastings, Barry County and Surrounding Communities for 45 years •Traditional and Cremation Services •Pre-Planning Services •Large Parking Lot - Handicap Accessible •Serving All Faiths •Pre-arrangement Transfers Accepted Family Owned and Operated www.girrbachfuneralhome.net �Page 8 — Thursday, February 9, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of by Elaine Garlock Tonight the Lake Odessa Area Historical Society will meet at 7 p.m. at the Freight House. The program will be a video of the Centennial Style Show. Anyone with a garment shown or worn then is welcome to bring it along or better yet, wear it. There will be refreshments. Visitors are welcome at this and other meetings. The county genealogical society will meet Saturday at 1 p.m. at the Freight House. The Christmas Memory trees are still in place, along with the rather permanent museum items. Posters are in place in store windows advertising the bi-monthly blood mobile which will be in town on Monday, Feb. 27. At the end of the month, the attraction at the Depot Complex will be a return of the annual art show, Feb. 25 and 26. The exhibit will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday and from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday. It is time to bring out any pieces of art, be it painting, chalkwork, water color, carvings, or any other vari- ety of art. Items may be brought on Friday to arrange for display. Also drawings will be included. Works by young children even. Printing is another form of art. Architectural drawings are welcome. A coming event for the county is the annual adult spelling bee, March 20, a project of the Ionia County Literacy Council. Funds raised go to promote literacy. Last year’s winners were Clarksville residents, the Huyhn family composed of parents Judy (Linebaugh), Han Huyhn and adult son Erick. They were sponsored by Michigan One Credit Union. Free movies at the Ionia Theater include “Somewhere in Time”, Feb. 9; “Visit to Mount Vernon” Feb. 16 and “Blue Mountains of Oregon” Feb. 23. The Bonanza Bugle will reach members of the local historical society yet this week. This issue features the memories of Audra Jordan. The front page has a long-ago photo of Lakeside Cemetery when the trees were yet young. Winterfest still happening Feb. 17-19, with few changes by Casey Cheney Staff Writer Weather will not stop Gun Lake Winterfest the weekend of Feb. 17 through 19, said Linda Boyce, who serves on the planning committee. Though the weather has complicated preparations for the annual festival, the committee has determined to proceed, with just a few alterations. The Ice Tee golf competition, for example, will no longer be held at the Bay Pointe Inn. Tom Wilt, executive director at the YMCA of Barry County, said, “We haven’t pushed the Ice Tee due to weather, but have 40 players to date, and I know others waiting for the weather.” Steve VanderKam, owner of Gun Lake Miniature Golf and Driving Range, agreed to provide his facilities for the event. Wilt said this version of Ice Tee could look something like nine holes of putting and nine holes of “creative chipping” on the driving range. Each team is then assigned to a hole, which they would play out like a typical round of18 holes. “On the chipping range, we would need to be creative,” Wilt said. “We could use the same distance as ice tee, but chip in to a canoe, tire, paint can, hula hoop.” The venue has plenty of parking, a little hut to register and restrooms. Wilt said VanderKam sees this as a community project but also exposure for his business. EDWARD JONES Here’s how to insure a great Valentine’s Day Valentine’s Day is almost upon us. To celebrate, you may want to present your loved ones with chocolates, flowers or any number of other traditional gifts. But if your valentine also happens to be your spouse or your life partner, you also might want to show your love in another way — by making sure you have adequate insurance. Just consider some of the things that life insurance can do for you and your family: • Pay off your mortgage — With sufficient life insurance, your family can remain in their home should anything happen to you. • Educate your children — College is expensive, and it seems to get more costly every year. If you were to die prematurely, your life insurance proceeds could help pay for your children’s education. • Help fund retirement — Term insurance consists of just a death benefit. But “permanent” insurance policies, such as whole life or universal life, a tax-advantaged savings component that could help pay for your retirement and help keep you financially independent — which means you won’t have to worry about being a “burden” to your grown children. Furthermore, proceeds from your life insurance policy could help your surviving spouse retire more comfortably. • Help protect your business — If you’re involved in a family-owned business enterprise, you can structure a life insurance policy to help preserve the business or transfer it to the next generation. • Pay for estate taxes — If your estate is sizable, it could generate estate taxes. Life insurance proceeds can help your heirs pay these taxes. Clearly, life insurance offers a variety of benefits. But how much do you need? And what type do you need? You might hear that your coverage should be worth around seven or eight times your annual salary. But there’s really no one-size-fits-all formula. In determining how much life insurance you require, you should consider your age, your income, the size of your family, the amount of your mortgage, whether your spouse has a retirement account, your financial goals and other factors. Your financial advisor can help you assess these variables to determine the appropriate level of coverage. One final word on life insurance: Don’t wait too long before purchasing a policy or upgrading your existing one. Your life insurance premium is based, in part, on your age, so the sooner you act, the better. Also, the time to buy life insurance is while you are healthy, because poor health could prevent you from obtaining coverage. As important as it is, life insurance isn’t the only protection you and your loved ones may need. During your working years, you are actually more likely to become temporarily disabled, due to injury or illness, than you are to die. If you weren’t able to work for a while, you could help your family maintain its lifestyle if you had an adequate disability income insurance policy. Your employer might offer you some coverage as a benefit, but it might not be sufficient, either in terms of income or the length of the disability covered. Consequently, you may want to explore an individual disability insurance policy. When you think of romantic Valentine’s Day presents, “insurance” probably doesn’t pop up right away. Yet, by making sure you’ve got all the coverage you need, you may actually be giving your loved ones the greatest gift they’ll ever receive. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 28.82 +.42 AT&T 30.04 +.63 BP PLC 46.60 +.69 CMS Energy Corp 21.91 +.08 Coca-Cola Co 68.55 +1.02 Eaton 51.29 +2.26 Family Dollar Stores 57.08 +1.28 Fifth Third Bancorp 13.53 +.52 Flowserve CP 114.61 +4.44 Ford Motor Co. 12.88 +.46 General Mills 39.39 -.44 General Motors 26.22 +2.20 Intel Corp. 26.64 +.22 Kellogg Co. 50.82 +1.30 McDonald’s Corp 100.91 +1.86 Pfizer Inc. 21.05 -.35 Ralcorp 75.00 -12.45 Sears Holding 47.30 +5.16 Spartan Motors 6.21 +.14 Spartan Stores 18.57 -.17 Stryker 55.18 -.25 TCF Financial 10.47 +.43 Walmart Stores 61.69 +.33 Gold $1746.55 +7.07 Silver $34.22 +1.06 Dow Jones Average 12,878 +246 Volume on NYSE 682M -294M BARRY COUNTY 77565758 Area TEA PARTY MEETING 7:00 pm • Tuesday, February 14th 77565684 Candidate Vetting Caucus Middle Villa Inn 4611 North M-37, Middleville Gary L. Munson 269-623-8464 Powerful pressures and special waters City of Hastings REQUEST FOR BIDS Sale of 1995 Ford F-800 Dump Truck ® The 77564841 The City of Hastings will accept bids for the sale of one (1) 1995 Ford F-800 Dump Truck. This vehicle will be sold as is, without warranty of any kind, and has approximately 70,800 miles on it. Arrangements to view this vehicle can be made by calling 945-2468 weekdays between the hours of 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM. The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in any bid, and to award the bid in a manner that the City deems to be in its best interest, price and other factors considered. Bids will be received at the office of the Hastings City Clerk/Treasurer, 201 East State Street, Hastings, MI 49058 until 9:30 AM on Tuesday, February 21, 2012 at which time they shall be opened and read aloud. The winning bid, if any, will be approved at the City Council meeting on February 27, 2012. Winning bidder must be prepared to take possession with certified funds between February 29 and March 6, 2012. No formal bidding forms or documents are required, but all bids must be in writing and sealed. All sealed bids must be clearly marked on the outside of the bid package as follows: “SEALED BID – 1995 Ford F-800 Dump Truck”. Thomas E. Emery City Clerk/Treasurer 77565645 See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits by Dr. E. Kirsten Peters It does seem like there’s something magical about artesian wells. Digging down to a level in the Earth from which water then spurts unaided is like a dream come true for some. And, after all, why pay the electric company for power to run a pump if Mother Nature will do all the work herself? From times immemorial, people have thought that water gushing from artesian wells must have different medicinal or even spiritual properties from plain old water in a creek or a typical well. And since artesian water can be “mineral water” with a distinctive taste, that early point of view was easy to hold — the water tasted different, might even be fizzy with bubbles, and rose out of the solid Earth of its own accord. Artesian water must be special stuff, right? Don’t get me wrong. I like to drink artesian mineral water, but not because it’s artesian. I simply like the unusual taste of various mineral waters — and many commercial mineral waters come from artesian sources. Still, with a glass of good artesian mineral water in hand, it’s easy for me to reflect on the pressures within the Earth that can make water flow upward. One clue about the pressure that normally holds artesian water down is the bubbles found in some artesian wells. The bubbles are in the water in your glass because you have depressurized — lowered the pressure — of the water by opening the bottle. That’s the same thing you do when you pour cola out of a closed container. Bubbles immediately form in the soda because the gasses that were dissolved in the sweetened water at higher pressures come out of solution and make the tiny bubbles — which then float upward to join the atmosphere. We know of the pressures within the Earth from a couple of different angles beyond artesian waters. One is from the evidence of certain rocks. There are three great classes of rocks, one of which is metamorphic rock, like marble, and high-grade coal, which is called anthracite or “hard coal.” Metamorphic rocks are created when other pre-existing materials are exposed to high pressures through long periods of time. For example, limestone that’s shaped by high pressures becomes marble. Normal, or soft coal, that is exposed to high pressures becomes anthracite — and that material, if exposed to more heat and pressure can even become graphite (the material in the center of pencils). Pressure in the Earth surely isn’t anything to sneeze at. That’s perhaps one of the lessons of the oil spill caused by the Deepwater Horizon in the Gulf of Mexico in April 2010. Unlike the Exxon Valdez spill in Alaska, where oil poured out from a ship, in the Gulf of Mexico, the spill came from where we were drilling for oil deep under the seas where it is held at high pressure. Normally, if all had gone according to plan, the drilling rig searching for oil would have intercepted petroleum and natural gas at high pressure — and been able to control that pressure in several ways. First, Deepwater Horizon was pumping mud at high pressure down the drill hole as it went. That high-pressure mud, in itself, is normally able to hold down the oil and gas that the drill bit cuts through. Beyond that, the blow-out preventer is meant to cut off flow from the well, either automatically or manually, if needed. A surge in natural gas concentrations likely contributed to the failure of all the mechanisms meant to hold the gas and petroleum mixture in the Earth. The lightweight natural gas rocketed up the drill hole, hit the drilling rig itself, and created the explosion and fire that took the lives of the 11 workers on the Deepwater Horizon. The Earth’s pressurized zones gives us both blessings and curses — from artesian waters and minerals like graphite to the greatest oil spill in U.S. history. Dr. E. Kirsten Peters, a native of the rural Northwest, was trained as a geologist at Princeton and Harvard universities. This column is a service of the College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences at Washington State University. Peters can be reached at epeters@wsu.edu. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 9, 2012 — Page 9 New Idea Club had rich history The following article written by Joyce F. Weinbrecht was published in the Aug. 22, 1991, Banner. A novel by Helen Hooven Santmyer, published in 1982, ...And the Ladies of the Club, is the story of a women’s club in Waynesboro, Ohio, which spanned the years from 1868 through 1932. The novel traces the lives of the members over the years, Hastings once had its very own “Ladies of the Club.” It was organized Nov. 16, 1925, and the meetings continued until 1980. Ida Fitzsimmons McCoy visited with relatives in Ohio and saw such a club in operation. She returned to Hastings and organized The New Idea Club. Charter members were McCoy, Cora Lee Boyes, Agnes Sage and Ella Wolfe. Bylaws were written and officers chosen. The first president was McCoy and the first secretarytreasurer was Boyes. Ida McCoy, wife of Archie McCoy, a prominent Hastings businessman, was a talented musician and made a significant impact on the musical culture of the city of Hastings. She had studied five years at the Chicago College of Music, graduating in 1890. She also attended and graduated from the New School of Methods in Chicago in 1898 and from the Thomas Normal Training School of Detroit in 1903. After she came to Hastings, she conducted a school of musical and dramatic art. The school was organized in 1897 and was called the Hastings Music Club. She was responsible for getting music classes into the curriculum of Hastings City Schools. She taught music to many individual students in Barry County. She had an important impact on the lives of the people of Hastings in her own right, as well as in her role of the wife of Archie McCoy. The New Idea Club was organized to serve the community. Membership, like the Ohio club, could only include 12 active members at any one time. For a new member to be added to the roster, an old member had to move away from the area, become physically impaired or die. There were three categories of membership: Active, honorary and in memory. After 1958, another category was added, medical facility. Virginia Willison Stevens remembered that she was invited to join in place of her mother, Myrtle Willison. The club motto was “Do Good Deeds” and they did just that. In a recent [1991] interview, Margret Barnett, with a twinkle in her eyes, told about learning to sew carpet rags, which she had never done before. She remembered sewing miles and miles and miles of carpet rags by hand. The rolls of carpet rags were then sent to be woven into rugs, which were sold at the club’s annual auction, along with other handmade crafts and baked goods to raise money for their projects. Minnie Silsbee made and donated a quilt each year to be sold at the auction, which was often held at the home of Myrtle Willison, 206 W. Green St. The club met at the homes of members for social events and work sessions. No gossip was allowed. Margret said Ms. McCoy was very strict about the no-gossip rule and would put a stop to it immediately. Gladys Yarger emphatically confirmed this memory. The rule was spelled out in the bylaws of the club: Members of the New Idea Club, (from left) Ida F. McCoy, Dorothy Sumner, and Emma Evans, 1939. “The ideals of the New Idea Club stand for a benefit to its members and the community, abounding in cheer, true friendship and equality with purity of mind and thought, thus eliminating gossip, vulgarity, envy and strife. “The ideals and object of the New Idea Club are ever to be kept high, and while hilarity, innocent fun and freedom, a real relaxation from everyday cares is an object, yet it is required that we keep our minds, thoughts and lips clean, that our high ideals may be fulfilled – thus carrying out the high standards which are the true goals of pure womanhood.” Yarger recalled the white elephant auctions frequently held at regular meetings throughout the year to earn extra money, and they resulted in a change of knickknacks for the members. She told about a time in the later years (1950s) when each club member was to earn some money with individual projects. Cressie Stedge earned the most by baking and selling homemade bread. The money earned by the projects was used to help with community projects and to aid various organizations and individuals in need . Each Christmas they selected a needy family and provided them “Christmas in a basket.” Some of their projects included furnishing the kitchen at Pennock Hospital and the Ida F. McCoy room at the hospital. They hemmed towels and pillowcases for the Thornapple Valley Home (now Thornapple Manor) and furnished one of the day rooms at the cost of $1,000. They made many donations to the Retarded Children’s Fund and to the Retarded Children’s School, including $25 toward a new piano for the school. The Red Cross and Red Feather groups received donations to aid their work. The Rotary Foundation was given gifts of money to be used in their scholarship project. The Hastings Public Library was remembered, as well as the Helping Hand Organization. Members of the club made many, many bandages for the American NOTICE TO BIDDERS BARRY COUNTY ROAD COMMISSION Sealed proposals will be received at the office of the Barry County Road Commission, 1725 West M-43 Highway, P.O. Box 158, Hastings, MI 49058, until 10:00 A.M., Tuesday, April 10, 2012, for the following items. Specifications and additional information may be obtained at the Road Commission Office at the above address or at our web site at barrycrc.org Asphalt Paving Scraper Blades Roadside Mowing Bituminous Mixtures Traffic Control Signs Brush Spraying Grass Seed Dust Control Crack Seal Blocks Culverts Cleaning Supplies Pavement Marking Nuts & Bolts Erosion Control Slag The Board reserves the right to reject any or all proposals or to waive irregularities in the best interest of the Commission. 77565779 BOARD OF COUNTY ROAD COMMISSIONERS OF THE COUNTY OF BARRY Frank M. Fiala Chairman D. David Dykstra Member David D. Solmes Member Cancer Society for distribution to their patients. Along with other sewing projects, the club took on mending tasks for the residents at Thornapple Valley Home and did this task for many years. They also held a style show for the benefit of the Retarded Children’s Fund. The club gave aid to many individuals over the years. One example of this was polio victim Lawson Craven. The club sent him money with which to buy much-needed crutches and other medical supplies over a period of a couple of years. He wrote to them thanking them and telling them that he now was able to get along all right and wanted them to help another person in need. The funds of the New Idea Club were handled very carefully. In the early days, except for a small operating fund, the money was invested in government bonds. These were cashed in to take care of the expenses of their larger projects. In 1960, they decided to change their manner of investment and deposited their money in an interest-earning account with Hastings Savings and Loan. In 1943 the club developed its own song. The lyrics were as follows: Our Club – oh! how we love it, we love it, we love it. Our Club – oh! how we love it for friendly are we. For the good we can do, for the friendship we share Oh, dear Club, our New Idea, most loyal we’ll be. Teas, luncheons and dinners were held in each others’ homes for fellowship. The minutes reflected the good times and good food they enjoyed together. Food was most important. Various members had dishes that were their specialties. Detailed descriptions of these dishes were part of the minutes of the meetings. In later years, as the group grew smaller, they often went out for meals. Virtues of local restaurants in the area became part of the minutes. In the minutes of Dec. 18, 1973, secretary Margret Barnett recorded “... This is a most unusual story of three members of the New Idea Club who did something a little out of the ordinary, and I don’t believe Ida (McCoy) would approve. With only three of us, we decided we didn’t care to get a meal, so we went to Middleville Hotel and had our Christmas dinner in the bar. We really had a good meal of swiss steak, corn, rolls and a very good salad.” These three members were Margret Barnett, Flossie Hinman and Dorothy Tudor. Table decorations and table settings were described in detail, as well as descriptions of how the homes were decorated for the holidays and meetings were given. The weather also received its share of comments in the minutes. Descriptions of snow Ida F. McCoy storms (none so bad as to cancel the meeting) hot June days, rainy days, and pretty spring days flowed through the minutes, regardless of which secretary was recording. The minutes for Feb. 20, 1962, recorded by Margret Barnett, told about John Glenn’s space flight. The club gathered in front of the television set to watch as he circled the globe three times. She writes, “... the minutes were not read nor a treasurer’s report given ... the cancer pads went unfolded – no plans were made for the next meeting. This was a day to remember, and as I write these notes, I wonder if in the years to come, when others read this, if they will smile to themselves and say, ‘That wasn’t so much,’ as we do now over the Orville Wright flights.” The minutes of June 20, 1967, stated “... a short business meeting was held without minutes of the previous meeting, as they were carried away in the car by the secretary’s daughter. (The secretary was Dorothy Sumner, the daughter Suzanne Blemler.)” The club didn’t meet in July and August since the members were involved with their families when school was not in session. We note this from the dues payment records. Dues were $1 initally, dropping to 50 cents during the Great Depression years, then again increasing to $1 as the economy improved. The fees appeared to have been due on the birthday of each member. They also had a flower fund, which was used to honor birthdays, anniversaries and family deaths. The New Idea Club celebrated its silver anniversary Nov. 16, 1950, with an accounting of its many achievements. Ida Fitzsimmons McCoy died on Aug. 22, 1951, having enjoyed seeing the club prosper for 25 years. (The marker on her grave at Riverside Cemetery is very unusual. It is a meteorite which sat in her yard over the years and then was placed on her grave to mark it.) For the 50th anniversary in November 1975, minutes from the past meetings were read and memories revived about past members and past deeds. The club served several purposes during its 55 years of existence. It gave its members an opportunity to serve the community in unique and special ways. It gave the members a support group where each was recognized for her own special talents. It allowed them to demonstrate skills they already had and to learn new skills. It was an opportunity to show others their most prized possessions in a safe environment. As secretary Dorothy Sumner wrote in the minutes of April 16, 1974, “...we marvel at the projects accomplished by the four members in the beginning, growing to 12 members who were active for many years. Rags were sewn at meetings to be made into rugs to sell to raise funds at various auctions for the hospital projects. Birthdays were always celebrated with the honored guest receiving a gift from the club. Births and deaths were noted, holiday times observed. As your secretary reflects, it seems this has been a club with love and respect for each other, and may we carry on as long as possible.” Membership in the New Idea Club over the years included: Ida F. McCoy, Cora L. Boyes, Agnes Sage, Ella Wolfe, Ella Johnson, Catherine Thompson, Julia McLaughlin, Mary McCreery Willson, Mary I. Crookston, Lena Norris, Alice Olney, Sadi Palmer Brower, Ina Ritchie, Mabel Roush, Dorothy Sumner, Minnie Silsbee, Dorothy Tudor, Myrtle Willison, Maude Smith Cole, Emma Evans, Alma Fingleton, Luana Townsend, Minnie Phillips Ballou, Stella Dibble, Martha Gies, Gladys Radford Yarger, Margret Barnett, Flossie Hinman, Mabel Hathaway, Cressie Stedge, Ida Lake and Virginia Stevens. The members did seem to care about each other and to look after each other. This caring was recorded over and over in the club minutes. The last minutes we have were written in January 1980. Dorothy Sumner was secretary. The meeting was held at the Tick Tock Restaurant in Hastings at lunch time. Recorded as attending his last meeting were Margaret Barnett, Dorothy Sumner, Dorothy Tudor and Virginia Stevens. In 1991, four members still were living. Margret Barnett, Dorothy Sumner, Gladys Yarger and Virginia Stevens. The work of the New Idea Club has gone down in history. Their contributions to the community will be long remembered and appreciated. Sources: New Idea Club minutes, interviews with Margaret Barnett, Gladys Yarger and Virginia Stevens; The Hastings Banner July 18, 1940, Dec. 16, 1942, Nov. 2, 1944, Nov. 16, 1950, and May 1, 1958. COUNTY, continued from page 1 be separated. “To take a slap at me and say I’m working on behalf of the real estate community offends you.” VanNortwick responded by saying he “was a little taken aback” by some of Stolsonburg’s behavior in earlier instances and challenged Stolsonburg to “flush it all out.” “Let’s flush it out,” said Stolsonburg. “I’ve worked with the prosecutor separately on different issues, and I’ve worked with the sheriff on different issues. The only difference between this and other department heads or board chairs that I’ve worked with is that this isn’t the result you like.” The subsequent 4-2 vote directing the agricultural preservation board to continue formulating a revised ordinance — that would combine both farmland and open space preservation considerations — left most commissioners with a result in which they weren’t fully pleased. “I want to get this done,” said Parker, “and I don’t think it will get done if it is together.” Commissioner Joe Lyons requested history on how the agricultural preservation board began to institute open space planning into the original Farmland Preservation Ordinance. Barnard responded that the 2002 Board of Commissioners established the agricultural preservation board and, at the same time, established a county development committee that provided a “green light” to address open space preservation. “I would like to see the minutes of back then because this is where it gets all out of whack; people aren’t on the same page,” said Lyons. “I think what happened was the ag preservation board was established, then the open space ordinance came in later without direction from the board — this is what I’m taking from it.” Stolsonburg had opened Tuesday’s discussion by informing commissioners that he had met privately with Paul Wing, a member of the agricultural preservation board, to clarify issues, one of them being that the agricultural preservation board had never been directed to consider open space preservation in the current revision process. “They were asked to update the current ordinance, and they took it upon themselves to create a conservation ordinance out of this,” contended Stolsonburg. Wing stated that the go-ahead for such consideration was given by the earlier county development committee which, among many reasons, was interested in providing local control for preservation efforts. Local control, Wing pointed out, was always considered preferable to standing by while state and federal preservation programs take action and, in many cases, the grant money that comes with the effort. Stolsonburg, who likened the differences between farmland and open space preservation to apples and oranges, was clear he was not opposed to the agricultural preservation board’s efforts. “If we just update the Farmland Preservation now, I’m not opposed to bringing back an open space ordinance as a separate ordinance.” That was the first motion proposed by Parker and seconded by VanNortwick so that discussion could continue “for conversation” purposes. When the vote gridlocked between approving votes from Geiger, Parker and Stolsonburg with VanNortwick, Howard Gibson, and Lyons opposed, it may have been the earlier direct address from Barnard that helped break the deadlock. “Somebody needs to make the decision on if open space is on or off the table,” pointed out Barnard, “but, in making that decision, it would be nice for these folks to have a forum where they can discuss ‘why open space’ and try to answer those questions.” In response to Barnard’s request for direction, Stolsonburg said as the meeting ended, “We will have to have a separate meeting in the near future.” In other business, commissioners approved the following: • An authorization for issuance of requests for proposals for repair work to the entrance of the old library building. • A recommendation that the board of commissioners approve two planning and zoning requests at its next meeting Feb. 14: the first a rezoning of property in Orangeville Township from residential lake to mixed use and the second, approval of four property parcels owned by Frederic and Mark Halbert in Johnstown and Baltimore townships for transfer under Public Act 116 to the Farmland and Open Space Preservation Program. • A recommendation that the board approve an easement agreement between the county and Message Express Internet allowing MEI to locate an antenna on the existing radio tower at the sheriff’s department. • A recommendation for board approval of Jim Carr to serve as a township official for a one-year term beginning April 1 on the tax allocation board. • A recommendation that the board approve health and safety guidelines and programs in accordance with the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s suggestions and directives coming from a recent visit by MIOSHA inspectors to county facilities. The next meeting of the board of commissioners will be Tuesday, Feb. 14, in the county meeting chambers at the courthouse beginning at 9 a.m. NOTICE OF PLANNING COMMISSION SPECIAL MEETING AND PUBLIC HEARING Please be advised the Village of Middleville Planning Commission will hold a special meeting and public hearing on Saturday, February 25, 2012 at 10:30 AM or as soon thereafter as possible on the matter noted below. This hearing will be held in the Council Chambers Village Hall, 100 E Main Street, Middleville, MI 49333. The petition is to rezone Parcel 08-41-023-011-016, 904 Grand Rapids Street, from R-1 (Low Density Single Family District) to I-1 (Light Industrial District). Any interested person may attend the public hearing to obtain information about the proposed zoning district map amendment and offer comments to the Planning Commission. A copy of the petition to rezone is available for inspection at the Village offices, 100 E. Main St., during regular business hours, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday. Persons with special needs who wish to attend should contact the Village Clerk no less than 72 hours prior to the public hearings. Respectfully submitted, Elaine Denton Village Clerk 77565794 �Page 10 — Thursday, February 9, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Memorial scholarship fund reaches BUSINESS NEWS out to Delton alternative ed students Taylor Chey Baumgart Boulter of Delton died unexpectedly Nov. 14, 2011. In his memory, a new scholarship will be presented to a graduating senior from the Delton Kellogg Alternative Education program beginning this year. Boulter was born June 13, 1991, in Bremerton, Wash., and spent his first two years in and around the Navy submarine base in Bangor, Wash. He moved to Delton with his parents, Dale and Lisa Boulter, in June 1993. According to Dale and Lisa, Taylor enjoyed the country living in the Delton community. As he grew up, he was involved in Boy Scout Troop 3050 in Banfield, He was on baseball, football and wrestling teams. He was a big brother to many, including his special little sister Megan and several cousins. He attended Delton Kellogg Schools and graduated in 2009. Before his death, he worked for his grandparents at Boulters Adult Foster Care Home for more than two years. Boulter enjoyed his music, friends, camping and fishing trips to Klotz Lake Camp in Ontario, Canada, with his family. Dale and Lisa say the reasons the family decided to make the memorial scholarship available to the Delton alternative education students is quite simple. “Taylor loved the people in the program, and most of his friends attended the program,” said Lisa. “And his teacher Mary Braska was his favorite” “Taylor knew most of the people in the program did not have the same opportunity in life as others,” Dale added. “He was always talking about the program and the people in it. He would spend the last dime in his pocket for gas money to give them rides to and from the program. “He was always going to the school to visit with the students in the program and say ‘hello’ to his teacher,” said Lisa. “Taylor also made it known that had it not been for the pro- gram, he would not have graduated at all.” The family decided that he would be honored by a scholarship in his name given yearly to a person wanting to better themselves. “Taylor’s life ended way too soon, and hopefully this small donation each year will help keep Taylor’s name and memory alive in one of the programs he cared for the most, Delton Kellogg Alternative Education.” The scholarship was funded by donations and gifts following his death. The $1,000 scholarship will be awarded to one graduate in the Delton Kellogg Alternative Education program and will be administered by the Barry Community Foundation. Information about making contributions to the Taylor Chey Baumgart Boulter scholarship fund is available by calling the foundation, 269-945-0526, or via email to info@barrycf.org. More information regarding the Barry Community Foundation may also be found online, www.barrycf.org. Viking launches ‘Sprinkler Saves’ blog, Twitter feed Viking Group, a global leader in fire protection and life safety systems, has announced its new ‘Sprinkler Saves’ blog. Every day, fire sprinklers, like those made at the Hastings facility, are working to save lives and property from the devastating effects of fire. The purpose of the new blog is to keep a running documentation of successful fire sprinkler system activations as reported in the media. Select sprinkler successes from throughout North America are posted daily to the blog. To follow the blog, visit http://sprinklersaves.blogspot.com/. The blog includes the location of the save and a brief one- or two- line description. Readers can click through to the media coverage for additional details. The sprinkler success stories published to the blog are also tweeted from Viking’s Twitter page, @Vikinggroup (https://twitter.com/#!/vikinggroup). Smartphone users can download any umber of free apps for scanning the company’s quick response codes. For more than 90 years, the company’s products and services have protected lives and property worldwide. For more information, visit www.vikinggroupinc.com or call 800-968-9501. LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE OF JUDICIAL FORECLOSURE SALE Andrew J. Thomas TROTT & TROTT, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy., Ste. 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE IF YOU ARE A BORROWER ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTENTION PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the circuit court at the request of the plaintiff. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest, as determined by the court. Barry County Circuit Court Case No. 10-618-CH NOTICE OF JUDICIAL SALE JUDICIAL SALE IN PURSUANCE and by virtue of a Judgment of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on the12th day of January, 2012, in a certain cause therein pending, wherein HSBC Mortgage Services, Inc., was the Plaintiff and Jeff Schantz was the defendant. The aforementioned judgment established a debt owing to plaintiff in the amount of $127,979.10, plus post-judgment interest at an annual rate of 8.125 % and other amounts recoverable pursuant to said judgment. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that in order to satisfy said judgment, in whole or in part, the property described below shall be sold at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, located at 220 W. State St., Hastings, Michigan (that being the building in which the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held) on Thursday the 29th of March, 2012 at 1 pm, local time. On said day at said time, the following described property located in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, shall be sold: The West 1/2 of Lots 1302 and 1303 of the City, Formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof. Tax Parcel ID: 08-55-201447-00 More commonly known as: 227 W South Street REDEMPTION PERIOD IS SIX MONTHS. Dated: February 9, 2012 Mark Sheldon Deputy Sheriff For more information please call 248-6422515. Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys for Plaintiff 31440 Northwestern Hwy., Ste. 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 File No. 329389L02 (02-09)(03-22) THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Scott D. Carrigan, a single man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for GMAC Mortgage Corporation its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated March 1, 2004 and recorded February 23, 2005 in Instrument Number 1141851, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by GMAC Mortgage, LLC by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Two Thousand Three Hundred Forty-Seven and 15/100 Dollars ($72,347.15) including interest at 5.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on FEBRUARY 16, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: All that parcel of land in Barry County, State of Michigan, as more fully described in Deed Instrument Number 1007094, Identification Number 08-03-028-061-00, being known and designated as: A parcel of land being on the East 1/2 of the Southwest one-quarter of Section 28, Town 1 North, Range 9 West, described as commencing at a point in the center of the highway 9 rods South of the center of Section 28; Running thence West 10 rods; Thence South 2 rods; Thence West 4 rods; Thence South 4 rods; Thence East 14 rods to the center of the highway; Thence North 6 rods along the center of the highway to the place of beginning, and containing 76 square rods of land. Also: A parcel of land commencing at a point 15 rods South of the center of Section 28, Town 1 North, Range 9 West ; Thence South 1 rod; Thence West 10 rods; Thence North 1 rod; Thence East 10 rods to the place of beginning. Also: a parcel of land commencing at a point 9 rods South and 10 rods West of the center of Section 28, Town 1 North, Range 9 West; Thence West 4 rods; Thence South 2 rods; Thence East 4 rods; Thence North 2 rods to the place of beginning. All being located on Section 28, Town 1 North, Range 9 West. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: January 19, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 2683 File No. 618.9889 77565253 (01-19)(02-09) FORECLOSURE NOTICE (ALL COUNTIES) AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTIFY (248) 362-6100 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by Lucy Tobias, unmarried woman of Barry County, Michigan, Mortgagor to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Mortgage Investors Corporation it’s successors and assigns dated the 19th day of April, 2011, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, for the County of Barry and State of Michigan, on the 27th day of April, 2011, in Instrument No. 201104270004556 of Barry Records, which said mortgage was assigned to GMAC Mortgage, LLC , thru mesne assignments, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, for principal of $87,905.85 (eighty-seven thousand nine hundred five and 85/100) plus accrued interest at 3.00% (three point zero zero) percent per annum. And no suit proceedings at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to the statue of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on, the 1st day of March, 2012, at 1:00:00 PM said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI, Barry County, Michigan, of the premises described in said mortgage. Which said premises are described as follows: All that certain piece or parcel of land situate in the Township of Rutland, in the County of Barry and State of Michigan and described as follows to wit: Situated in the Township of Rutland, County of Barry and State of Michigan: Lot 19 and 20 of Pine Haven Estates, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats on Page 95. Commonly known as: 1589 Pinedale Dr Tax Parcel No.: 13-195-001-20 The redemption period shall be six months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: February 2, 2012 By: Foreclosing Attorneys Attorney for Plaintiff Weltman, Weinberg & Reis Co., L.P.A. 2155 Butterfield Drive Suite 200-S Troy, MI 48084 WWR# 10086435 (02-02)(02-23) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Michael J Dehaan, A Single Man, original mortgagor(s), to Broadmoor Financial Services, Inc., Mortgagee, dated October 10, 2003, and recorded on October 16, 2003 in instrument 1115720, and assigned by mesne assignments to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Forty Thousand Five Hundred Twenty-Six and 38/100 Dollars ($140,526.38), including interest at 5.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on February 23, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Northeast corner of the Northwest 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 22, Town 3 North, Range 10 West, Yankee Sprints Township, Barry County, Michigan: Thence West 710 feet along the North line of Section 22; thence South 00 degrees 11 minutes East 495 feet parallel with the West 1/8 line of said Section 22 for the place of beginning; thence East 710 feet parallel with the North line of said Section 22; thence South 00 degrees 11 East 325 feet along said West 1/8 line of Section 22; thence West 710 feet; thence North 00 degrees 11 minutes West 325 feet to the place of beginning. Together with a shared easement 33 feet in width for ingress and egress, the East line of which is described as; Beginning at the Southwest corner of above described parcel and running thence North 00 degrees 11 minutes West 820 feet to the North line of said Section 22 and the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #389055F01 77565430 (01-26)(02-16) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Kelley Lynn Carpenter and Douglas Edward Carpenter, Wife and Husband, original mortgagor(s), to Charter One Bank, N.A., Mortgagee, dated December 13, 2005, and recorded on January 17, 2006 in instrument 1158984, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eighty-Four Thousand Five Hundred Ninety-Six and 14/100 Dollars ($184,596.14), including interest at 7.33% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on February 23, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land in the Northeast 1/4 of Section 18, Town 4 North, Range 8 West, described as: Beginning at the Northwest corner of the Northeast 1/4 of said Section; thence East 46 2/3 rods; thence South 28 rods; thence West 20 rods; thence South 64 rods; thence West 26 2/3 rods; thence North 90 rods to beginning, except therefrom a parcel in the Northwest corner thereof that is 7 rods East and West by 30 rods North and South. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #370384F03 77565451 (01-26)(02-16) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by James Orns, an unmarried man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated October 29, 2008, and recorded on November 5, 2008 in instrument 200811050010765, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Flagstar Bank, FSB as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-One Thousand Five Hundred Ten and 49/100 Dollars ($121,510.49), including interest at 6.99% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 8, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Beginning at the South 1/4 post of Section 9, Town 1 North, Range 8 West; thence East parallel with the centerline of East Bristol Road, a distance of 179 feet; thence North at right angles for East Bristol Road 395 feet; thence West parallel with the centerline of East Bristol Road 220 feet; thence South to a point 41 feet West of the South 1/4 post of said Section 9, 395 feet; thence East 41 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #385076F01 77565749 (02-09)(03-01) NOTICE TO BORROWER PURSUANT TO MCL 600.3205a(4) THIS FIRM MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. NOTICE is hereby provided to the Borrower(s) regarding the property located at 679 BARBER ROAD, HASTINGS, MI 49058. State law requires that you receive the following notice: You have the right to request a meeting with the mortgage holder or mortgage servicer. Pursuant to MCL 600.3205a(1)(c), BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP has designated the Loan Modification Department of Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 at (248) 883-0157 as its agent to serve as the contact under MCL sections 600.3205a-3205c and has the authority to make agreements for a loan modification pursuant to MCL sections 600.3205b and 600.3205c. You may contact a housing counselor by visiting the Michigan State Housing Development Authority's website at http://www.michigan.gov/mshda or by calling 1-800-A-SHELTER, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, year-round. If you request a meeting with the designated agent, foreclosure proceedings will not start until 90 days after the notice required by MCL 600.3205a was mailed to your last known address, subject to the provisions of MCL 600.3205b. If an agreement to modify the mortgage is reached and you abide by the terms of the agreement, the mortgage will not be foreclosed. You have the right to contact an attorney. If you do not have an attorney, the telephone number for the Michigan State Bar Lawyer Referral Service is (800) 9680738. Notice given by: Randall S. Miller Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 248-883-0157 (Loan Modification Dept.) loanmods@rsmalaw.com Case No. 12MI00304-1 Dated: February 11, 2012 77565784 (02-09) -SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by JOHN E. TRUMAN and KATHLIN J. TRUMAN, HUSBAND AND WIFE, to MORTGAGE PLUS OF AMERICA CORPORATION, Mortgagee, dated April 10, 2003, and recorded on April 17, 2003, in Document No. 1102257, and re-recorded on December 6, 2011 in Document No. 201112060011488 and assigned by said mortgagee to U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, as assigned,Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Eight Thousand Four Hundred Fifty-Two Dollars and Thirty Cents ($88,452.30), including interest at 6.000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on February 16, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: COMMENCING AT THE SOUTH 1 / 4 POST OF SECTION 28, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, HOPE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN; THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES 55 MINUTES 28 SECONDS WEST, 35.45 FEET TO THE EASTERLY LINE OF CORDES DRIVE, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT OF ROY K. CORDES SUBDIVISION AND ROY K. CORDES SUBDIVISION NO. 1 AS RECORDED IN LIBER 4 OF PLATS ON PAGE 14, AND LIBER 4 OF PLATS ON PAGE 49 RESPECTIVELY; THENCE THE FOLLOWING COURSES ALONG SAID EASTERLY LINE OF CORDES DRIVE TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING; NORTH 18 DEGREES 19 MINUTES 42 SECONDS WEST, 170.03 FEET; THENCE NORTH 01 DEGREES 05 MINUTES 03 SECONDS WEST, 432.77 FEET TO THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF SAID ROY K. CORDES SUBDIVISION NO. 1 AND THE POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE NORTH 01 DEGREES 05 MINUTES 34 SECONDS WEST, 124.92 FEET ALONG SAID EASTERLY LINE OF CORDES DRIVE; THENCE SOUTH 88 DEGREES 04 MINUTES 09 SECONDS EAST, 250.35 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 01 DEGREES 05 MINUTES 03 SECONDS EAST, 124.92 FEET; THENCE NORTH 88 DEGREES 04 MINUTES 09 SECONDS WEST, 250.35, FEET ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SAID ROY K. CORDES SUBDIVISION NO. 1 TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 USB.002476 (0177565334 19)(02-09) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Joan Patricia Leos, a Single Woman, original mortgagor(s), to Lansing Automakers Federal CU, Mortgagee, dated August 27, 2002, and recorded on September 6, 2002 in instrument 1086940, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Four Thousand Four Hundred Seventy-Four and 97/100 Dollars ($84,474.97), including interest at 6.99% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on February 16, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Woodland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 7 and 8 of Block 9 of the Village of Woodland, according to the recorded Plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #383088F01 77565235 (01-19)(02-09) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTENTION PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain Mortgage made between JACK L. REFFETT, a single man, whose address is 120 Delaware, Westville, Illinois 61883, as Mortgagor, and ICNB MORTGAGE COMPANY, L.L.C., a Michigan limited liability company, whose address is 302 West Main Street, Ionia, Michigan 48846, as Mortgagee, dated January 8, 2007, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on January 12, 2007, in Document No. 1174919, upon which Mortgage is claimed to be due at the date of this notice the sum of SEVENTYSIX THOUSAND SEVEN HUNDRED FORTY-TWO 12/100 ($76,742.12) DOLLARS, and no suit or proceedings at law or equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said Mortgage, or any part thereof; NOW, THEREFORE, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said Mortgage, and pursuant to the statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on February 16, 2012, at 1:00 p.m., said Mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction to the highest bidder at the Barry County Courthouse, 220 West State Street, Hastings, County of Barry, Michigan (that being the building where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held) of the premises described in said Mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due of said Mortgage, with interest thereon at 6.5% per annum, and all legal costs, expenses and charges, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sums which may be paid by the undersigned to protect its interest in the premises, which said premises are described as follows: Land situated in the City of Hastings, County of Barry and State of Michigan, to-wit: The South 1/2 of Lots 19 and 20, Block 13, of Kenfield’s 2nd Addition to the City of Hastings, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats on Page 37, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be thirty (30) days from the date of such sale. ICNB MORTGAGE COMPANY, L.L.C. Mortgagee Dated this 12th day of January, 2012. TIMOTHY L. CURTISS, Esq. Braun Kendrick Finkbeiner P.L.C. 304 East Broadway, Suite 206 Mt. Pleasant, Michigan 48858 77565295 989/775-7404 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 9, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Melissa Hasty and Donald K. Hasty, Jr., husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Taylor, Bean and Whitaker Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated July 23, 2009 and recorded July 30, 2009 in Instrument Number 200907300007875, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by FDIC as Receiver for Colonial Bank by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Twenty-Eight Thousand Six Hundred Ninety-Six and 31/100 Dollars ($228,696.31) including interest at 5.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on FEBRUARY 23, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the Township of Hope, County of Barry, State of Michigan, is described as follows: That Part of the East 1/2, Northeast fractional 1/4, Section 4, Town 2 North, Range 9 West; described as: Beginning at the East 1/4 corner of said Section; thence North 88 degrees 59 minutes 27 seconds West 242.38 feet along the South line of said Northeast 1/4; thence North 00 degrees 21 minutes 32 seconds East 815.00 feet along the East line of the West 1075 feet of said East 1/2, Northeast 1/4; thence North 88 degrees 59 minutes 27 seconds West 250.00 feet; thence North 00 degrees 21 minutes 32 seconds East 492.53 feet; thence South 88 degrees 50 minutes 56 seconds East 493.30 feet, along the North line of the Southeast fractional 1/4 of said Northeast fractional 1/4; thence South 00 degrees 23 minutes 54 seconds West 1306.30 feet along the East line of said Section to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 12 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: January 26, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 426.3360 77565478 (01-26)(02-16) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Richard L. Singer, a single man and Nicole J. Edwards, a single woman, as joint tenants in common, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated January 4, 2006 and recorded January 9, 2006 in Instrument Number 1158704, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Morgan Stanley ABS Capital I Inc. Trust 2006-HE3 by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Six Thousand One Hundred Ninety-One and 97/100 Dollars ($106,191.97) including interest at 7.39% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on MARCH 8, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Baltimore, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Township of Baltimore, County of Barry and State of Michigan: Beginning at the South 1/4 corner of Section 35, Town 2 North, Range 8 West; thence West 335 feet along the South line of said Section 35; thence North 163 feet parallel with the North and South 1/4 line of said Section 35; thence East, 252 feet, thence North 90 feet; thence East, 83 feet to said North and South 1/4 line; thence South 253 feet along said 1/4 line to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: February 9, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 306.4472 77565744 (02-09)(03-01) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF A MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on December 16, 2004, by Justin D. Schultz and Heather B. Schultz, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, given by them to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on December 20, 2004, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 1138981, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of Ninety-Seven Thousand Fifty-One and 41/100 Dollars ($97,051.41); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, March 1, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE CITY OF HASTINGS, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: Lot 2 of Block 17 of Lincoln Park Addition to the City, formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 55. Commonly Known As: 636 W. Madison Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 Tax Parcel Number: 08-55-090-110-00 The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: January 18, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933 (517) 3718253 (01-26)(02-16) (01-26)(02-16) 77565418 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT; ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY SERVICE PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW. ATTENTION POTENTIAL PURCHASERS AT FORECLOSURE SALE: In the case of resolution prior to or simultaneously with the aforementioned foreclosure sale, U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate Trust 19992, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents, may rescind this sale at any time prior to the end of the redemption period. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited to the return of your bid amount tendered at the sale, plus interest. Default having occurred in the conditions of a Mortgage made by Stephen A. Elliott, Jr., an unmarried man ("Debtors") to Green Tree Servicing LLC (f/k/a Green Tree Financial Servicing Corporation), dated October 9, 1998, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry in the State of Michigan on October 9, 1998, in Document Number 1019205, et. seq., said Mortgage being last assigned to U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate Trust 1999-2, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents, ("Green Tree"), by Mortgage Assignment dated December 28, 2011, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry in the State of Michigan on January 9, 2012, in Document Number 201201090000311, et. seq., on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due as of the date of this Notice the sum of $104,661.55, which amount may or may not be the entire indebtedness owed by Debtors to Green Tree together with interest at 6.75 percent per annum. NOW THEREFORE, Notice is hereby given that the power of sale contained in said Mortgage has become operative and that pursuant to that power of sale and MCL 600.3201 et. seq., on March 1, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., on the East steps of the Circuit Court Building in Hastings, Michigan, that being the place for holding the Circuit Court and/or for conducting such foreclosure sales for the County of Barry, there will be offered at public sale, the premises, or some part thereof, described in said Mortgage as follows, to-wit: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF BARRY, COUNTY OF BARRY, STATE OF MICHIGAN, IS DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: PARCEL A: THAT PART OF THE SOUTHWEST 1/4 OF THE SOUTHWEST 1/4 OF SECTION 8, TOWN 1 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, DESCRIBED AS: COMMENCING AT THE WEST 1/8 POST OF THE SOUTHWEST 1/4; THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES 57' 37" EAST ON THE EAST AND WEST 1/8 LINE OF THE SOUTHWEST 1/4, 54.21 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING OF THIS DESCRIPTION; THENCE CONTINUING NORTH 89 DEGREES 57' 37" EAST, 729.09 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 26 DEGREES 37' 35" WEST, 361.52 FEET TO THE CENTERLINE OF FLORIA ROAD; THENCE NORTH 66 DEGREES 16' 54" WEST ON SAID CENTERLINE, 407.60 FEET; THENCE CONTINUING ON SAID CENTERLINE NORTH 62 DEGREES 31' 00" WEST, 163.68 FEET; THENCE CONTINUING ON SAID CENTERLINE NORTH 32 DEGREES 07' 43" WEST 67.90 FEET; THENCE CONTINUING ON SAID CENTERLINE NORTH 26 DEGREES 05' 11" WEST, 28.60 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. which also includes any interest Green Tree may have in the 1998 Fleetwood Mobile Home, Serial Number NFLW22AB05526BJ13. The redemption period shall be one (1) year from the date of sale unless the property is established to be abandoned pursuant to MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of sale or fifteen (15) days from the date the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(b) was posted and mailed. Dated: January 20, 2012 U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate Trust 1999-2, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents, By: DONALD A. BRANDT (P30183) BRANDT, FISHER, ALWARD & PEZZETTI, P.C. Attorneys for Green Tree 1241 E. Eighth Street, P.O. Box 5817 Traverse City, Michigan 49696-5817 (231) 941-9660 File No.: 6140.1060 Ad #19601 01/26, 02/02, 02/09, 02/16/2012 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Rebecca E. Duff, a single woman, to Mainstreet Savings Bank, FSB, Mortgagee, dated January 3, 2003 and recorded January 9, 2003 in Instrument Number 1095136, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Three Thousand Six Hundred SeventyNine and 26/100 Dollars ($73,679.26) including interest at 6.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on MARCH 8, 2012. Said premises are located in the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 960 of the City, formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded Plat thereof in Liber A of Plats, on Page 1. City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: February 9, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 2683 File No. 362.8839 77565796 (02-09)(03-01) MORTGAGE SALE This is an attempt to collect a debt, and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by THOMAS H. CHASE, a single man, and SHIRLEY A. CHASE, a married woman, Mortgagors, to INDEPENDENT MORTGAGE CO. SOUTH MICHIGAN, Mortgagee, dated February 18, 2005 and recorded February 22, 2005 in Instrument #1141705 which was assigned to INDEPENDENT BANK of 4200 East Beltline, Grand Rapids, Michigan, by Assignment dated April 18, 2011 and recorded on April 20, 2011 in Instrument No. 201104200004350. By reason of such default the undersigned elects to declare the entire unpaid amount of said mortgage due and payable forthwith. At the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on said mortgage the sum of FIFTY THOUSAND EIGHT HUNDRED SIXTY SIX AND 48/100 ($50,866.48) dollars including interest at the rate of 4.125% per annum. No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided and to pay said amount with interest as provided in said mortgage, and all legal costs, charges, and expenses, including attorney fees allowed by law, said mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the east door of the Barry County Courthouse, the place of holding the Circuit Court within the County of Barry, City of Hastings, Michigan, on March 15, 2012, at 1:00 p.m., local time. Pursuant to Public Act No. 104, Public Acts of 1971 [MCLA 600.3240(8), MSA 27A.3240(8)] the redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of the foreclosure sale, unless the property is determined to be abandoned under MCLA 600.3241a; MSA 27A.3241(1), in which case the property may be redeemed during the 30 days immediately following the sale or expiration of statutory notice period. The premises covered by said mortgage are situated in the Township of Maple Grove, County of Barry, State of Michigan, described as follows, to wit: Commencing at the West 1/4 post of Section 23, Town 2 North, Range 7 West, Maple Grove Township, Barry County Michigan; thence South 40 rods for a place of beginning; thence North 130 feet; thence East 600 feet; thence South 130 feet; thence West 600 feet to the place of beginning. Together with an easement in common that is appurtenant thereto for purposes of ingress and egress thereto over premises described as: Commencing at the West 1/4 post of Section 23, Town 2 North, Range 7 West; thence South 40 rods; thence North 130 feet for a place of beginning; thence East 600 feet; thence North 33 feet; thence West 600 feet; thence South 33 feet to the place of beginning. The default and foreclosure proceedings include a 1992 Fairmont mobile home, serial #MY9385449A8, permanently affixed thereto, as evidenced by the Certificate of Mobile Home Title and recorded in Instrument #1141704. INDEPENDENT BANK, Assignee SCHENK, BONCHER & RYPMA Curtis D. Rypma P44421 601 Three Mile Road, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49544-1601 77565568 (616) 647-8277 Synopsis HOPE TOWNSHIP SPECIAL BOARD MEETING February 2, 2012 Board members present: Albert, Peake, Messelink, Tonkin. Member absent: Eddy-Hough. 5 guests present. Approved: Agenda Appointing Tonkin Clerk Pro Tem Previous Minutes Accepting Linda Eddy-Hough resignation Accepting Rodger Hough resignation Appointing Albert to SWBCSWA Appointing Tonkin to BH Fire Committee Hourly pay for voter clerical assistance Adjourned 7:15 p.m. Arlene Tonkin, Clerk Pro Tem Attested to by 77565756 Patricia Albert, Supervisor SYNOPSIS PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP Budget Workshop Meeting February 24, 2012 Supervisor J. Stoneburner called the meeting to order at 2:00 p.m. Members present: Supervisor Stoneburner, Clerk Owens, Treasurer McGuire, Supervisor Stoneburner, Trustee Goebel, and Trustee Grundy. Members absent: none Public present: None Pledge of allegiance and a moment of silence for our troops. Agenda was approved. Minutes was approved. Public Comments: None. Discussion on General Township Budget. Fire Department Discussion. Board Project Discussion Board comments were received. Public comments: None Meeting adjourned at 4:00 p.m. Submitted by: Jill Owens, Clerk Attested to by: 77565742 Jim Stoneburner, Supervisor STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-260-030-DE Estate of Daniel Lee Jousma II, Deceased. Date of birth: July 19, 1977. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Daniel Lee Jousma II, died September 7, 2009. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Dayna M. Jousma, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at Suite 302, 220 W. Court St., Hastings, MI 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: February 6, 2012 Neil L. Kimball (P36653) 900 Monroe Ave., N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503 (616) 632-8000 Dayna M. Jousma 4920 Grange Rd. Middleville, MI 49333-9433 77565775 (616) 893-5085 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-26026-DE Estate of MABEL MARVEL QUIGLEY. Date of birth: April 19, 1925. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, MABEL MARVEL QUIGLEY, died December 5, 2011. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to CONNIE MCMILLIAN, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 WEST COURT, SUITE 302, HASTINGS, MI 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 2/3/12 NATHAN E.TAGG P68994 206 SOUTH BROADWAY HASTINGS, MI 49058 (269) 948-2900 CONNIE MCMILLIAN 191 EAST BROADWAY WOODLAND, MI 48897 77565773 (616) 367-4653 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Eric Johnson and Mary Johnson, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 28, 2006, and recorded on November 29, 2006 in instrument 1173221, and assigned by said Mortgagee to U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE TRUMAN FHA TRUST 2008-1 as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixteen Thousand Two Hundred Five and 18/100 Dollars ($116,205.18), including interest at 7% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 8, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Castleton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 4 Town 3 North, Range 7 West, Township of Castleton, Barry County, Michigan, thence South 176 feet for point of beginning, thence South 220 feet, thence East 1320 feet to the North-South 1/8 line of the Southeast 1/4; thence North 220 feet, thence West 1320 feet to the point of beginning. Except the East 610 feet The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #191965F04 77565736 (02-09)(03-01) Case No. 11-466-CH Notice of Judicial Foreclosure Sale on a Default Judgment and Judgment of Foreclosure Against Defendants Teresa J. Lindsey, f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker and Shana Ciampa NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to the terms of a Default Judgment and Judgment of Foreclosure of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan signed and filed on January 17, 2012, in the case of Eaton Federal Savings Bank, Plaintiff v Teresa J. Lindsey, f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker and Shana Ciampa, Defendants, Case No. 11-466-CH, wherein, among other things, the Court allowed the foreclosure of a mortgage granted by Teresa J. Lindsey f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker (Mortgagor) to Eaton Federal Savings Bank on September 27, 2007 and recorded October 4, 2007 at Instrument No. 200710040002745, pages 1 through 10, Barry County Records, against the Mortgagor. Pursuant to the Default Judgment and Judgment for Foreclosure, the mortgaged premises shall be sold at a public auction by or under the direction of Clerk/Sheriff for the County of Barry to the highest bidder at the main entrance to the Barry County Courthouse, 220 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 on Thursday, March 22, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., local time. The following described “Mortgaged Premises”: Parcel 1: Lot 13 of Standley’s First Addition to Fine Lake Park, Johnstown Township, Barry County, Michigan, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, on Page 31, Also, beginning at the Southeast corner of Lot 13 of Standley’s First Addition to Fine Lake Park, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, on Page 31; thence North 26 degrees East along the Easterly line of Lots 13 and 14 of said Plat, 100.00 feet, thence South 82 degrees 54 minutes East 50.00 feet; thence South 26 degrees West, 100.00 feet; thence North 82 degrees 54 minutes West 50.00 feet to the point of beginning. Parcel 2: Beginning at the Southwest corner of Lot 8 of Fine Lake Park, Johnstown Township, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof; thence Northeasterly along the East Shore of Fine Lake to a point 10 feet from said place of beginning; thence Easterly to a point on the Easterly line of said Lot which is 3 feet North of the Southeast corner of said Lot; thence Southerly along the East line of said Lot to the Southeast corner thereof; thence Westerly along the South line of said Lot to the place of beginning. The Mortgaged Premises, whose address is 823 East Shore Drive, Battle Creek, Michigan, 49017, also include all right, title and interests held by Teresa J. Lindsey f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker as of September 27, 2007, in the Mortgaged Premises. The Premises may be redeemed during the six (6) months following the date of sale. BODMAN PLC By: Sandra L. Jasinski (P37430) Attorneys for Eaton Federal Savings Bank 229 Court Street, P.O. Box 405 Cheboygan, Michigan 49721 (231) 627-8000 Date: February 2, 2012 Dates of publication: February 2, 9, 16, 23, March 1, 8 and 15, 2012. 77565541 KEEP YOUR FRIENDS AND RELATIVES INFORMED! Send them a gift subscription to The Hastings BANNER To order your subscription, call... 269-945-9554 �Page 12 — Thursday, February 9, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Tomczyk pleads no contest on charge of bringing pills into jail LEGAL Hastings dentist Christopher Tomczyk pleaded no contest Jan. 3 to possession of a controlled substance, use of a controlled substance and violating his probation on two counts of prohibited use of a chemical agent. In Barry County Circuit Court before Judge Amy McDowell, charges of possessing contraband in a jail by a prisoner and bringing contraband into jail by prisoner were dropped. The plea was entered with the approval of the Barry County Jail corrections sergeant. Tomczyk was accused last year of allegedly bringing contraband into the Barry County Jail and consuming the contraband while serving weekend time for two previous misdemeanor convictions. Reportedly, Tomczyk had pills hidden in his sock. According to “My suspicion is that whether it’s today or next year, he [Tomczyk] will be practicing dentistry some day. So, I made a plea that would allow him to participate in drug court, our most intensively therapeutic program. I want to do everything in my power to make sure Mr. Tomczyk has the best chance of not re-offending, especially to the detriment of a patient. The plea also allows for significant punishment, as well.” – Tom Evans, Barry County Prosecutor Barry County Prosecutor Tom Evans, the penalty is up to five years in prison and/or a $1,000 fine. Tomczyk pleaded no contest Jan. 25, 2011, and was convicted of the misdemeanor charge of prohibited use of a chemical agent (nitrous oxide). In exchange for pleading to those misdemeanor charges, the two felony charges for intentional or willful directing of another per- son (an employee) to place false information on a medical record were dismissed. Tomczyk was put on probation for 24 months and ordered to serve 90 days in jail, 80 days to be suspended upon successful completion of probation. The remaining 10 days were to be served over five weekends. “My suspicion is that whether it’s today or next year, he [Tomczyk] will be practicing dentistry some day,” Barry County Prosecutor Tom Evans said Feb. 7. “So, I made a plea that would allow him to participate in drug court, our most intensively therapeutic program. I want to do everything in my power to make sure Mr. Tomczyk has the best chance of not re-offending, especially to the detriment of a patient. The plea also allows for significant punishment, as well.” The possession of a controlled substance conviction is a possible two-year-prison and/or $2,000 felony. Use of a controlled substance is a misdemeanor with a sentence of possible one year in jail and $1,000 fine. Prohibited use of a chemical agent carries a 93-day jail sentence and/or $100 fine. Tomczyk’s is scheduled to be sentenced by McDowell in circuit court March 1. LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Nathan McNabb, A Single Man, original mortgagor(s), to Cornerstone Home Loans, Mortgagee, dated December 6, 2007, and recorded on January 7, 2008 in instrument 20080107-0000195, and assigned by said Mortgagee to ABN AMRO Mortgage Group, Inc. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Six Thousand Five Hundred Sixty-Four and 94/100 Dollars ($76,564.94), including interest at 7% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 1, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The South 1/2 of Lots 1043 and 1044, except the West 3 feet of said Lot 1044 of the City, formerly Village of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded Plat therof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 2, 2012 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #385144F02 77565573 (02-02)(02-23) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Brian M. Schaefer, a Married Man and Sara M. Schaefer, His Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Independent Mortgage Co. Central MI, Mortgagee, dated March 15, 2004, and recorded on March 22, 2004 in instrument 1123968, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Independent Bank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety Thousand One Hundred Sixty-Eight and 07/100 Dollars ($90,168.07), including interest at 5.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 8, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 70 of Aben Johnsons Addition Number 2 to the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 4 of Plats, Page 2, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #385630F03 77565760 (02-09)(03-01) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by John L. Buffinga, an unmarried man, original mortgagor(s), to Comerica Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated August 18, 1992, and recorded on August 24, 1992 in Liber 552 on Page 607, and assigned by mesne assignments to Wells Fargo Bank, NA as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Twenty-Four Thousand Six Hundred FiftyThree and 47/100 Dollars ($24,653.47), including interest at 8.75% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 8, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at a point 1364.82 feet South of North 1/4 Post, Section 28, Town 1 North, Range 8 West, thence South 224.46 feet, thence West 400 feet, thence North 224.46 feet, thence East 400 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #392761F01 77565724 (02-09)(03-01) FORECLOSURE NOTICE RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES, P.C. MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. Mortgage Sale - Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by Katherine J Niles, and Jeremiah A Niles, wife and husband to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. acting solely as a nominee for Countrywide Home Loans Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 19, 2004, and recorded on May 3, 2004, as Document Number: 1126789, Barry County Records, said mortgage was assigned to Bank of America, N.A. successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing L.P FKA COUNTRYWIDE HOME LOANS SERVICING LP by an Assignment of Mortgage dated October 05, 2011 and recorded October 17, 2011 by Document Number: 201110170009725, , on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Four Thousand Nine Hundred Eighty-One and 31/100 ($134,981.31) including interest at the rate of 5.75000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the Circuit Court in said Barry County, where the premises to be sold or some part of them are situated, at 01:00 PM on February 23, 2012 Said premises are situated in the Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: COMMENCING AT A POINT ON THE NORTH LINE OF SECTION 2, TOWN 3 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST, ON THE WESTERLY LINE OF HIGHWAY M-37 FOR POINT OF BEGINNING, THENCE WEST 1042.5 FEET ON SAID SECTION LINE, THENCE SOUTH 175 FEET, THENCE EAST PARALLEL WITH THE NORTH LINE OF SECTION 2, TO THE WESTERLY LINE OF HIGHWAY M-37, THENCE NORTHWESTERLY ALONG WESTERLY HIGHWAY LINE OF M-37 TO PLACE OF BEGINNING. Commonly known as: 1993 N M37 HWY The redemption period shall be 12.00 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or 15 days after statutory notice, whichever is later. Dated: January 26, 2012 Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Bank of America, N.A. successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing L.P FKA COUNTRYWIDE HOME LOANS SERVICING LP 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 (248) 335-9200 Case No. 11MI02070-1 (01-26)(02-16) 77565502 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Robert L. Wood, a married man Sylvia J. Wood, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Independent Mortgage Company, Mortgagee, dated November 10, 2010, and recorded on November 22, 2010 in instrument 201011220010916, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Independent Bank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-Seven Thousand Eighty-Eight and 78/100 Dollars ($167,088.78), including interest at 4.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 8, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Assyria, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The East 1/2 of the West 1/2 of the West 1/2 of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 3, Town 1 North, Range 7 West, Assyria Township, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #395895F01 77565730 (02-09)(03-01) THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Ronald D. Catrell, Ragene Catrell, husband and wife, to Fifth Third Mortgage - MI, LLC, Mortgagee, dated May 20, 2005 and recorded May 24, 2005 in Instrument Number 1147007, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Fifth Third Mortgage Company by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Seventy Thousand Seventy-Eight and 39/100 Dollars ($270,078.39) including interest at 3% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on MARCH 1, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 22 of Pennasee Park, according to the recorded plat thereof, Also Commencing Northwest corner said Lot 21; thence North 17 degrees 38 minutes 07 seconds West 10.00 feet along Northerly EXT of West line of said lot to North line platted alley; thence North 69 degrees 41 minutes 77 seconds East 52.52 to the point of beginning; thence North 01 degrees 06 minutes 28 seconds West 80.28 to centerline Gun Lake Road; thence Southeasterly along said centerline to a point lying 64.75 feet North 71 degrees 39 minutes 48 seconds West from intersection of centerline Gun Lake Road and platted alley of Pennassee Park; thence South 13 degrees 54 minutes 32 seconds West 39.91 to North line said platted alley; thence Northwesterly along North line said platted alley to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: February 2, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 200.8678 77565563 (02-02)(02-23) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Richard Stafford and Kathy Stafford, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Kellogg Community Federal Credit Union, Mortgagee, dated January 15, 2010, and recorded on January 26, 2010 in instrument 201001260000759, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Four Thousand Two Hundred Nine and 77/100 Dollars ($124,209.77), including interest at 5.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 8, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 45, Fair Lake Park, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats, Page 77, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #393307F01 77565689 (02-09)(03-01) THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Elaina M. Garrison, an unmarried woman, to Fifth Third Mortgage - MI, LLC, Mortgagee, dated August 1, 2006 and recorded August 7, 2006 in Instrument Number 1168236, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Fifth Third Mortgage Company by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Two Thousand Nine Hundred Sixty-Four and 98/100 Dollars ($82,964.98) including interest at 7.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on FEBRUARY 16, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The land referred to in this instrument, situated in the Village of Middleville, County of Barry, State of Michigan, is described as: Unit 6, East Town Homes, a Condominium according to the Master Deed recorded in Document Number 1074113, Barry County Records, as amended, and designated as Barry County Condominium Subdivision Plan Number 23, together with rights in the general common elements and the limited common elements as shown on the Master Deed and as described in Act 59 of the Public Acts of 1978, as amended. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: January 19, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 2683 File No. 200.8865 77565266 (01-19)(02-09) NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 11-025987-DE Estate of RUBY M. BALL Date of birth: 05/13/1922. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, RUBY M. BALL, 116 S. State St., Nashville, MI, died 09/20/2011. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to ROBERT BALL, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. COURT, STE. 302, HASTINGS, MI 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 02/06/2012 Robert J. Longstreet P53546 607 N. Broadway Hastings, MI (269) 945-3495 ROBERT BALL 116 S. State St. Nashville, MI 49073 77565777 (517) 852-0759 THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. MORTGAGE SALE -Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Virginia R. Grenz, and William H. Leforce, joint tenants, a single woman, a single man, Mortgagors, to Conseco Finance Servicing Corp., Mortgagee, dated July 26, 2000, and recorded on August 03, 2000, in Instrument No. 1047678, Barry County Records, and assigned by assignment to Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Trustee for Green Tree 2008-MH1, recorded in Barry County Records, Michigan, on which said mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, the sum of One Hundred Ninety-Two Thousand Seven Hundred Seventy-Nine 43/100 ($192,779.43) Dollars, including interest at 9.00% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at the place of holding the Circuit Court sales in Barry County, Michigan, on Thursday, February 23, 2012, at 1:00 p.m. Said premises are situated in the Township of Castleton, County of Barry and State of Michigan and are described as: The West 24 acres of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 18, Town 3 North, Range 7 West, subject to easements, reservations, restrictions and limitations of record, if any. C/k/a 5058 E. State Rd., Hastings, MI 49058. Parcel ID: 05-018-010-00. The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 16, 2012 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Trustee for Green Tree 2008MH1 Assignee of Mortgagee Keith A. Sotiroff, Esq. SOTIROFF & Bobrin, P.C. 30400 Telegraph Road, Ste. 444 Bingham Farms, MI 48025-4541 (248) 642-6000 (01-19)(02-09) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: William Ellis and Judy Ellis, Husband and Wife to Ameriquest Mortgage Company, Mortgagee, dated August 28, 2003 and recorded September 9, 2003 in Instrument # 1112845 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Ameriquest Mortgage Securities Inc., Asset-backed Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2003-10, by assignment dated January 20, 2012 and subsequently recorded in Barry County Records on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Nine Thousand One Hundred Eighty-Six Dollars and Forty-Two Cents ($139,186.42) including interest 8.6% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00pm on March 1, 2012 Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land in the Northwest fractional one quarter of section 33, Town 4 North, Range 8 West described as: Commencing at the North one quarter post of said Section 33, thence South 2647.5 feet; thence South 89 degrees 57 minutes West 1273.18 feet to the place of beginning; thence North 54 degrees 5 minutes West 220 feet; thence North 35 degrees 22 minutes 15 seconds West 134 feet; thence South 15 degrees 5 minutes West 247.7 feet; thence North 89 degrees 57 minutes East 320 feet to the place of beginning. Commonly known as 522 Gaskill Rd, Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 2/2/2012 Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Ameriquest Mortgage Securities Inc., Asset-backed Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2003-10, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 11-53820 (0202)(02-23) 77565671 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 9, 2012 — Page 13 POLICE BEAT Items stolen from Hastings yard Hastings Police responded to a reported larceny complaint Feb. 1 in the 600 block of East Bond Street. The owner said several items taken from the yard, including a generator, a heater, air conditioner and a 30-gallon container of scrap metal. Anyone having information on these missing items is asked to call the Hastings Police, 269-945-5744. Feb. 1 to ask questions about his responsibility to register under the sex offender registration law. Not only was man in violation of the registration requirements, he also had an outstanding arrest warrant for not properly registering last fall. The man said he had gone to the sheriff’s department with a question during the first 15 days of January and thought he had complied, even though he was instructed to go the Hastings Police to register. The man was arrested and taken to jail. Resident finds fraud Someone takes Nook, places orders in airline tickets A Middleville woman called 911 Feb. 4 to Hastings Police were contacted last week by a Hastings resident who received notice from U.S. Airlines that he had won two tickets to anywhere in the world. Since the communication was sent to his late wife, the resident suspected that the information was fraudulent and reported it to authorities. After the resident contacted a local travel agency, he learned, indeed, that the offer was not legitimate. Woeful man gets no sympathy with hostility Hastings Police received a complaint Feb. 2 of an unwanted male on West Green Street. The caller said his brother was intoxicated and causing problems. When officers were allowed in to the residence in the 700 block of West Green Street, they found a 27-yearold Woodland man sitting on the floor incoherently talking about personal issues. The man became confrontational toward the officers and continued to be hostile toward family members. He was taken into custody for being a disorderly person. The man’s breath test registered .21 percent blood-alcohol level. Pipes stolen from Pleasantview School Over $1,000 in copper pipe was reported stolen from Pleasantview School on Lacey Road in Dowling, which has been vacant since 2008. According to the building’s maintenance man, he checks the school’s boiler every other day, and when he arrived Feb. 3, he noticed asbestos insulation all over the floor. The insulation had covered half-inch copper water pipes, and the pipes in the boiler room were missing. Some of the pipes in a storage room also had been cut away. Deputies found the rear entry door’s window was broken out. The door knob to the boiler room was lying in the hallway. Photographs were taken of the scene, including footprints in the white powdery residue left on floors. The case is closed. report that her Nook tablet had been stolen and someone was using the device to place orders in her name. The wireless laptop computer is used primarily to download electronic books, but can be used conventionally as a laptop. The woman said she suspected her landlord’s son. Orders had been placed over the previous few days for a free trial of Showtime Network, a subscription to PC Gamer e-magazine, and a subscription to Maxim magazine. The woman spoke to a Barnes and Noble representative who agreed to block any further orders from her Nook. Deputies followed up with the Barnes and Noble legal department in New York City. The case remains open. Parts stolen, gasoline siphoned from farm On Feb. 3, a Hastings man reported items stolen from a parts truck on his property, in addition to 100 gallons of gasoline siphoned from farm equipment. The man said a truck battery and radiator from an F350 were taken from his South Charlton Park Road property, probably in the previous four days. He said he thought the thieves had tried to cut the cables of the battery to remove it, but then simply lifted the battery out of the truck. He did not know when the gasoline had been siphoned. Deputies took photographs of two separate boot prints which did not belong to the property owner, one a size 10 and the other size 12 to 13. The case is inactive with no suspects. Jealous boyfriend says ‘get out’ A deputy requested the assistance of police service dog Kyro for a school search of hall and gym lockers and bathrooms at Delton Kellogg Middle School Feb. 3. Kyro gave a positive alert on one of the hall lockers, and school officials conducted a search of the locker. Kyro had given a similar alert on the same locker the previous day. No narcotics were found in the locker, however, the deputy reported smelling the distinct odor of fresh marijuana emanating from the locker. Later in the school search, Kyro gave a positive alert on a locker in the girls’ locker room and on a locker in the boys’ locker room. A marijuana pipe was found in the boys’ locker room, but no other narcotics were found. The case has been turned over to school officials. A woman called Barry County Central Dispatch Feb. 6 to report she had been pushed and choked by her 21-year-old boyfriend. The Bellevue woman said that after a Super Bowl party, she went to bed and was awakened by her boyfriend who wanted to see her cell phone. She told deputies he appeared to be intoxicated and was accusing her of cheating on him. Reportedly, he was upset and demolishing his apartment. The woman said she unlocked her phone and let the subject look, but he remained upset. According to the report, the boyfriend knocked the woman down and pinned her to the bed. After he let her up and she tried to leave, the man grabbed her by the neck, pushed her against a wall and started choking her. The woman said she was standing on her tip-toes, could barely breathe and almost blacked out. The woman then lashed out and punched the man in the face, making him let go. He told the victim to leave and never come back. He said if she contacted the police, his sister and her friends would go after the woman’s family. Deputies photographed bruises on the victim’s neck. Attempts to contact the man were unsuccessful. The case remains open and has been forwarded to the prosecutor’s office for review. Parking complaint goes to pot Woman released from jail goes right back A Barry County deputy made contact with a 32-year-old Delton woman at her residence on South Shore Drive for a parking complaint. After being invited into the house, the deputy noticed the strong odor of burnt marijuana. The woman denied smoking or having marijuana in the house. She agreed to let the deputy search her home. Police service dog Kyro assisted in the search and alerted to a small table in the master bedroom where the deputy found a small amount of suspected marijuana, an unlabeled prescription bottle and a silver grinder. The woman entered the bedroom saying she had contacted her boyfriend and he did not want deputies searching the house further without a warrant. A field test confirmed the presence of marijuana. A report was forwarded to the prosecutor’s office requesting charges on the woman and her 33-year-old boyfriend. Hastings officers were dispatched to the 600 block of South Hanover Street Feb. 7 to a residence with a reportedly intoxicated unwanted female. According to sources at the scene, the woman was asking for a ride to Dansville and was offering to pay cash for the transportation. While en route, officers were told the woman had left the residence and got into a vehicle parked on the street. Police were then informed she had left the vehicle and was on the front porch of a nearby residence. When officers arrived, they located 48-year-old Hastings woman who appeared to be hiding. Officers attempted to communicate with the woman, whom they believed to be highly intoxicated, barefoot and carrying a purse holding an unsealed bottle of liquor. She became loud and the homeowner requested that they move away from his window since his children were trying to sleep. The woman was placed under arrest for possessing open liquor in public and for being a disorderly person. Further investigation revealed she had started the car she had sat in, and had just been released from jail just three hours earlier. The woman registered a .218 percent blood-alcohol level. Police dog sniffs around Delton school Confused sex offender arrested A 47-year-old man claiming to be homeless went to the Hastings Police Department GAG ORDER, continued from page 1 “Just recently, three more videos were made,” said Payne. “One of the persons listed on the defense witness list ... Judith Faye, stated ‘We need to get this out there as much as possible in case the court puts a gag order on us.’ “Evidence should be discussed in the courtroom your honor, not in the media. I would ask you grant the People a gag order in both cases.” Terpening’s defense attorney, Thomas Schaeffer, said this was an interesting motion since the prosecutor himself had been interviewed by the media. Schaeffer contended the motion was a restraint on the First Amendment. “When the court is asked to prohibit people from making statements to the public, it is frowned upon,” he said. Schaeffer asked the court who the Prosecutor wanted to restrain with the motion. “Is it the attorneys, the defendant, the police, the prosecutor?” he asked. “Is it the 200 witnesses that have been listed?” One of the upcoming motions in the case, filed by Schaeffer, is a change of venue for the trial. “Which is normal motion when you have a high [amount of] publicity going on,” said Schaeffer. Schaeffer said he thinks it is inappropriate for any court to restrain a person’s First Amendment rights. “I think it is ill-advised to have a gag order in this particular matter.” Payne then stated, “I wanted to clearly state, in my motion, what I am requesting. I am requesting the court order that no witness in this case, law enforcement officer, court employee, prosecuting attorney, defense attorney, defendant, investigators, and representatives of the defendant make or authorize for public dissemination any recorded statement of the defendant. Release or authorize release of any documents, exhibits or other evidence connected with this case. Make a statement for public dissemination concern- New guidelines aimed to make school lunches healthier The Barry-Eaton District Health Department shares in the excitement with the American Heart Association about the recent news of changes to the USDA Nutrition Standards for school meals. Changes to the school meal plans are expected to take place over the next three years, starting in 2012-13. The standards will make some practical changes that many parents are already promoting at home, such as making sure kids are offered both fruits and vegetables each day, adding more whole grains, and portion sizes and calorie counts designed to maintain a healthy weight. Late in January, American Heart Association CEO Nancy Brown issued the following statement on the release of the final nutrition standards for school meals announced Feb. 6 by First Lady Michelle Obama and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack: “For the first time in a generation, America’s children will have better choices when they get in line at their school cafeterias,” said Vilsack. “The new U.S. Department of Agriculture nutrition standards are a huge win for kids’ health that will greatly improve the selection of foods and beverages sold in schools. When put into place across the country, these guidelines will play a critical role in helping young Americans maintain a healthy weight, and ensure their lives are free of heart disease and stroke.” School nutrition and food options continue to be priorities of the Barry-Eaton District Health Department’s Culture of Health and Wellness Committee, said Heather Sanders. The committee looks forward to working with local school districts to apply — and improve — school nutrition standards. For more information about this committee’s work and meetings, call Shelli Wolfe, 517541-2644. GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. ing the existence or possible existence of any documents, exhibits or other evidence connected with this case. Express for public dissemination, or make any comment outside court proceedings concerning ... ” Judge McDowell cut Payne off stating she had read the motion. She said there is clearly First Amendment protection for freedom of speech and a blanket gag order to keep everyone from speaking about the case is impractical and quite possibly unenforceable. “There are certain people I can order not to discuss the case, but I have to balance that against the rights of free speech,” said McDowell. “You [the Prosecution] have to show clear and present danger which is a very high burden. That is to ensure the integrity of the judicial process, and ensure Mr. Terpening and the People to have a fair and impartial trial. I am balancing out the parties rights to free speech with the victims’ rights to maintain their privacy and dignity.” McDowell placed the gag order on all parties and agents of the parties. She ordered there is not to be any identification of the victims, and their names are not released. There will not be a release of any images or photos of the victims consistent with the Freedom of Information Act. There will be no release of any mental or psychological records of the victims. The victim CD will remain under seal as ordered by the district court. Any future evidence will be presented to the court for review and may be subject to the gag “There are certain people I can order not to discuss the case, but I have to balance that against the rights of free speech. You [the Prosecution] have to show clear and present danger which is a very high burden. That is to ensure the integrity of the judicial process, and ensure Mr. Terpening and the People to have a fair and impartial trial. I am balancing out the parties rights to free speech with the victims’ rights to maintain their privacy and dignity.” – Judge Amy McDowell order. “Mr. Terpening is not going to take something having to do with the witness, discuss it with Judith Faye for example, and have her go out and talk about it,” said McDowell. “That is what I am trying to prevent. It will not be at the direction of your client [Terpening] or someone else. Does that make it clearer. I am focusing on the victims at this point. He is not to discuss anything to do with the victims, or any of the things I have stated.” Friday, Feb. 10, McDowell will hear another 12 motions in the Michael Terpening case. COURT NEWS Timothy Arthur Whitney, 31, of Middleville was sentenced for welfare fraud by failure to report income. Whitney was ordered Feb. 1 to serve six months in jail, with credit for two days served. He must pay $23,035 in costs and restitution. Whitney was also ordered to serve 36 months on probation. The balance of his jail sentence was to be suspended upon payment of $10,000 by 5 p.m. Feb. 1. Probation will be terminated upon payment in full. A second charge of welfare fraud was dropped. John Peter Vandermeer was sentenced Feb. 1 for operating under the influence of liquor, third offense. Vandermeer, 34, of Hastings was ordered to serve six months in jail, with credit for two days served. He must serve 36 months on probation and pay $1,698 in costs. Restitution is yet to be determined. The last four months of jail time will be suspended upon successful completion of probation. Vandermeer must pay $100 a month toward costs after being released from jail. A charge of operating with license suspended, revoked or denied was dropped. Brian Patrick Griffith of Alto was sentenced Feb. 1 for operating under the influence of liquor, third offense, and for possession of marijuana. Griffith, 30, was ordered to serve 10 months in jail for the OUIL conviction and 90 days in jail for the possession charge. He received credit for 45 days served and must serve 36 months on probation, plus pay $1,751 in costs. Griffith was ordered to attend cognitive behavior therapy while in jail and pay $100 per month toward costs after being released from jail. Charges of having an open container of alcohol in his vehicle and operating with a suspended license were dropped. Bradley Raymond Leonard, 32, of Delton, was sentenced for failure to comply with reporting duties as a sex offender. Leonard was ordered Feb. 2 to serve eight months in jail, with credit for 22 days served. He must pay $448 in costs. Charges of failure to register as a sex offender and failure to comply were dropped. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 For Sale Recreation Help Wanted AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are interested in leasing acreage for this years deer season. Call (269)795-3049 FIREWOOD FOR SALE. $160 for a full cord, free delivery. Call (616)835-1795 National Ads 35 DRIVER TRAINEES NEEDED NOW! Become a driver for Werner Enterprises! Earn $750 per week?! No experience needed! Local CDL Training! 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Business Services BOOKKEEPING SERVICES Personal * Self-Employed * Small Business Payroll * Billing Accounts Receivable * Accounts Payable General Ledger Weekly * Monthly * Quarterly * Annually Call today! (269)420-5714 ROY HALL’S AUTO DETAILING: 25 years serving Barry County, (269)948-8377. Help Wanted LOOKING FOR OCCASIONAL weekend help. Friday thru Sunday evening care for mother in her home. Call (269)838-3449 and leave message. GREEN LEAF TREE SERVICE is now accepting applications. Must be 18 to apply. Valid Michigan drivers license. Random drug test. New applicants only. Call 269-506-8322. MEDICAL INSURANCE BILLING ASSISTANT Full time position. Experience required with CPT, ICD-9, charge entry, insurance payment posting, EDI transmission and reports, denied claims follow up, insurance eligibility/verification, patient billing and collections. Experience with Misys Tiger/Allscripts Pro helpful. Email cover letter and resume to Karen@deltonmedicalcenter.com or fax to (269)623-5527. Please only qualified persons apply. PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 �Page 14 — Thursday, February 9, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lakewood a little short against Portland, again by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Vikings might get a third shot at the number two team in the state. Portland’s varsity girls’ basketball team scored its second Capital Area Activities Conference White Division contest of the season over the Lakewood girls Friday, topping the Vikings 47-35 at Lakewood High School. Lakewood led the Raiders at the half when the two teams met in Portland earlier in the season, and Friday’s contest was more like a five-point game throughout until the Raiders extended their advantage in the second half of the fourth quarter. The Vikings drew a bye for the first round of the Class B District Tournament, which starts the final week of February at Thornapple Kellogg High School, and will face the winner of the opening round matchup between the Raiders and Hastings Saxons in the semifinals in Middleville. “Looking around in the locker room, these kids truly believe we can beat them,” said Lakewood head coach Denny Frost. “Whether we can or not I don’t know, but we believe that we can. They’re not going to go away. They’re going to show up.” “That’s what I want out of them.” The Vikings trailed 20-16 at the half and picked up the pace offensively in the third quarter, but just couldn’t get the stops it needed to whittle away at the Raider lead. Portland did a great job of moving the ball around offensively and extended its lead to 36-27 by the end of the quarter. “We had some defensive breakdowns. We were looking to double when (6-4 center Sarah) Trierweiler had it, and we didn’t get the back-side guard dropping. They did a nice job of recognition. And (coach) Ray (Kimball) did a nice adjustment, and they got Lakewood guard Madi King gets past Portland’s Sarah Trierweiler on her way in for two points during the third quarter Friday at Lakewood High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) some lay-ups off of that,” Frost said. “That was their good offense, but we definitely broke down defensively. The girls know it. You don’t play 6-4 every game, and we adjusted our defense and some old habits don’t change in one night’s practice.” Trierweiler and Alexandra Grys tied for game-high scoring honors with ten points each. Portland also got eight points from Nicole Green and seven from Taylor Roe. Kristin Hilley led Lakewood with eight points, before leaving early with an injury in the fourth quarter. Emily Kutch had seven points, eight rebounds for the Vikings, and Madi King added seven points, seven rebounds, four steals and two assists. “Emily Kutch, the last two minutes, she was the best player on the floor,” Frost said. “She didn’t get a break, but she was the best player on the floor. She got every rebound, putbacks, and got beat to heck and didn’t quit. I told her that. That’s what we need. She’s starting to realize how good she can be, and when she finds out other teams are going to pay the price.” The Vikings are now 6-10 overall this sea- The Vikings’ Emily Kutch drives to the basket during the fourth quarter of her team’s loss to visiting Portland Friday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Lakewood head coach Denny Frost talks things over with his team during its nonconference victory over visiting Ionia Tuesday night. (Photo by Perry Hardin) son and 3-4 in the CAAC-White. They scored a 50-21 non-conference win over visiting Hastings Wednesday. Kutch and Hilley had 14 points each to lead the way, but everyone got into the action for the Vikings. All 11 girls on the roster scored. Kutch attacked the rim offensively, added six rebounds and three steals. Hilley knocked down four threes. “Our reserves got some good minutes in the second half, and I was really pleased with their offensive patience and they worked hard at the defensive end,” said Frost. “Maddie McLean and Hannah Morris made their first varsity points and had a solid overall game. It was a nice fundamental sound win.” The Vikings jumped out to a 13-5 lead in the opening quarter, and pushed their advantage to 30-9 by the half. “We caught Hastings a little tired and shorthanded tonight,” said Frost. “They had to play a tough league game Tuesday, and came back with a good player out sick. We came out and shot the ball well early and were pretty solid at the defensive end.” Hastings was led by Taylor Carter, who had five points and four rebounds. Ashley Jemison chipped in six points and four steals for the Vikings, while Elizabeth Campeau had a team-high seven rebounds. The Vikings also scored a non-conference win Tuesday, topping visiting Ionia 49-33. Lakewood knocked down eight threepointers in the contest, including two in the first quarter by Brooke Wieland that helped her team to an early 18-6 lead. Wieland hit four threes in the contest and finished with a game-high 14 points. “When you shoot 61 percent from behind the arc, usually good things happen,” Frost said. “We got off to a good start and Brooke Wieland was on fire early to give a big jump start. Brooke hasn’t scored much because we usually have her defending the best player on the other team. Tonight we were missing Kristin (Hilley) and told them that some other people really had to step up their game and she did.” Lakewood also got 13 points from Kutch and 11 from King. Kutch had ten rebounds as well, while King contributed six rebounds, six steals, three assists and two blocks. Hannah DeJong added eight rebounds. “I was really pleased with our effort coming off the Portland loss, especially with one of our starters out,” Frost said. “We were really solid with our execution at both ends of the court, and we caught Ionia on a bad shooting night. They have a couple of very good players, and we did a nice job of containing them for the most part.” The Bulldogs shot just 27.7 percent from the floor, and hit just 2 of 15 three-point tries. Ionia got ten points each from Shelby Atkinson, Taylor Bovee and Sarah Swartz. “Everyone contributed to a solid defensive effort,” Frost said. Lakewood returns to league action at Corunna Friday, and Tuesday will head to Belding. Slow start hurts Hastings at Thornapple Kellogg by Brett Bremer Sports Editor If you give him an inch, he’ll take a mile. Thornapple Kellogg senior guard Greg Hamilton poured in 27 points as his Trojans scored a 50-46 O-K Gold Conference victory over visiting Hastings Tuesday night. Hamilton also had six rebounds and five assists. “Once he gets inside the paint, if you don’t get to him, he just causes havoc,” said Hastings head coach Don Schils. “I think he had an assist on every other point they scored. He’s an outstanding player.” “He’s definitely the toughest player in our league to guard.” Hamilton and the Trojans raced out to a 2212 lead in the opening quarter, and still led 25-14 at the half after five total points were scored in the second quarter. “We didn’t match up with a couple of their shooters like we had planned,” Schils said. “They hit a couple of threes early on us. It seemed to get them going and put us on our heels.” Hastings put together a charge in the second half, cutting the TK lead to six heading into the fourth quarter. The Saxons were as close as three points a couple of times in the second half. Danny Buehler led the way for the Saxons, finishing with 18 points. He was 8-for-8 at the free throw line and also had six steals. Luke Heide was 4-of-4 at the free throw line and finished with 14 points. “The kids played better, the fourth quarter especially,” said Schils. “We got it down to three a few times. We just didn’t play with that sense of urgency in the first quarter.” TK also got 11 points and five rebounds from center Caden Francisco. Keith Garber led the Saxons on the boards with seven. Hastings is now 8-7 overall and 3-7 in the O-K Gold Conference. The Trojans improved to 10-6 overall and 5-5 in the league. Grand Rapids Catholic Central topped the Saxons 42-36 in Grand Rapids Friday. The Saxons battled from behind to build a 25-20 lead in the third quarter, but a couple of turnovers sparked the Cougars to a 4-0 run to close out the third. Catholic Central then outscored the Saxons 18-11 in the fourth quarter to secure the win. Catholic Central led 10-6 in the opening quarter, and pushed its lead to 16-11 at the half. “The whole game we could not put the ball in the basket,” Schils said. “I think we shot 28 percent, and we had very good looks. When you’re not scoring, as a coach you look at what you need to do system-wise. Even after looking at the tape, we were getting good shots.” The Saxons could have attacked the basket more. They settled for 21 three-point attempts in the game, and managed to earn just seven free throws. Maxwell Clark led the Saxons with 15 points in the loss. Buehler and Heide had six points each. Buehler also had a team-high five assists. Garber chipped in seven rebounds. Catholic Central got 14 points each from Peter Firlik and Jon Marosi. Hastings returns to action at South Christian Friday, then will be off until Feb. 17 when it plays host to Ottawa Hills. TK will be at home against Forest Hills Eastern Friday, then will also have Tuesday night off. Friday, the Trojans and Wayland Wildcats played their second two-point game of the season, with each team taking a turn winning on its home court. This time that honor went to the Wildcats, who pulled out a 56-54 overtime win over the visiting Trojans. TK rallied from six points down at the start of the fourth quarter to force a 50-50 tie and the extra four-minute period. All six Wayland points in the overtime Let us process your digital photos and 35 mm color film quickly! PRINTING PLUS at J-Ad Graphics North of Hastings on M-43 period came at the free throw line. The Wildcats were 14-of-22 as a team at the free throw line in the contest. Craig Velting led the way for the Wildcats with 13 points. Zach Hindenach added 11 points, while Dylan Greiner and Dilon Aten had nine points each. Momentum swung back and forth in the contest. TK built a 15-8 first quarter lead, but saw that lead cut to two at the half. Wayland outscored the Trojans 14-6 in the third quarter to take a six-point lead into the final eight minutes of regulation, only to see the Trojans rally with a 17-11 run in the fourth. Hamilton led TK with 19 points, while Francisco chipped in 15. TK also got six points each from DJ Nolff and Brendon Hudson. Lions get first league victory by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Lions got their first Kalamazoo Valley Association victory of the season Friday. Maple Valley’s varsity boys’ basketball team scored a 60-52 win at Parchment. Austin Tobias “played like a senior,” according to Lion head coach Chris Ewing. Tobias led the Lions with 15 points and also had a team-high seven rebounds to go along with three steals and four assists. He shot 65 percent from the field to get those 15 points. It was far from a one-man show for the Lions though. Austin Gonser pumped in 14 points. Garret Mater had ten points as well as six rebounds and six assists. The Lions had 15 assists, which helped the team shoot over 45 percent from the floor on the night. Kyle Spencer and Garrett Reid chipped in seven points each. “We played 32 minutes of basketball,” said Ewing. “We finally did all the small things really well. That made a big difference. We rebounded really well. We broke their press. The entire team played their hearts out all throughout the game.” Parchment jumped out to a 14-9 lead in the first quarter, but the Lions turned things up from then on. They came back to take a 25-22 lead by the half. Switching to a half-court press in the second half helped the Lions create some turnovers and push their lead to 42-35 at the end of three quarters, and that lead grew to as many as 15 points in the fourth quarter. The only reason the lead didn’t stay in double-figures was Parchment’s Jalen Boyd. Boyd led all scorers with 25 points on the night. He hit five three-pointers, including two in a row in the fourth quarter to help keep his Panthers within striking distance. Mater knocked down 3-of-4 free throws in the final 30 seconds to help keep the Lions a comfortable distance ahead though. Bo Britigan added in ten points for the Panthers. The Lions’ Garret Mater collides with Pennfield’s Evan Bish under the basket during Monday’s make-up game between the two KVA rivals at Pennfield High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) The Lions outrebounded the Panthers 3017 in the contest, and only turned the ball over ten times. That was 22 fewer turnovers than the Lions had in the first meeting between the two teams. “The guys are finally figuring out what it’s like to be in close basketball games,” said Ewing. The Lions are now 2-11 overall and 1-11 in the KVA. Pennfield topped the visiting Lions 66-49. The Panthers came out in the second half on fire, pushing a 30-27 half-time lead to 54- The Lions’ Micah Bromley fires a shot up over Pennfield’s Tyler Grimes Monday night. (Photo by Perry Hardin) 39 by the end of the third quarter. Nathan Wallace led the way for Pennfield with 13 points, while Evan Bish chipped in ten points. Seven players had at least six points for the Panthers. Maple Valley was led by Mater’s 14-point night. The Lions also got 11 points from Tobias. That pair had six rebounds each. Garrett Miller added nine points. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 9, 2012 — Page 15 Parchment pins the Lions in final league contest by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The final outcome wouldn’t have changed much. The Lions still would have fallen to Parchment. They’d still be entrenched in fourth place in the Kalamazoo Valley Association standings. But, Maple Valley varsity wrestling coach Chris Ricketts would have liked to have seen some of his boys wrestle a little better against visiting Parchment Wednesday evening. The Lions’ Alejandro Reid (top) puts Parchment’s Tyler Birmingham on his back during the first period of their 215-pound match Wednesday at Maple Valley High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) “I think we threw away at least two matches,” said Ricketts. “Some of our kids that we depend upon aren’t wrestling well all of a sudden. Although Parchment was going to beat us, we’re not going to beat Parchment this year. We just had a couple of kids we thought would wrestle better, but they didn’t.” Maple Valley finishes off the season of KVA duals with a 4-3 record after falling to the Panthers 57-24. The league tournament was at Constantine High School. Parchment finishes the league duals with a 6-1 record, having fallen only to league-leading Constantine. The Lions weren’t looking for any miracles at the league tournament. “We hope the kids we beat we can beat again, and we hope we can beat some of the kids that beat us. Pretty simple,” said Ricketts. The Lions were certainly be hoping to avenge a couple of losses from Wednesday. Lion 135-pounder Andrew Zank had a 5-2 lead over the Panthers’ Wyatt Polmateer going into the third period, but was caught and pinned midway through the third period. Maple Valley also had Travis Franks lose a tough 11-9 decision to Parchment’s Alex Bosma. “The kids really do care,” Ricketts said. “That’s something. When they don’t wrestle well it bothers them.” “I appreciate that. They don’t make excuses. They know they didn’t wrestle well. Whether they win or lose, they’re willing to take responsibility.” The Lions got their first win in the second bout of the dual Wednesday, as Cash Flower pinned Troy Williams in 5 minutes 22 seconds at 152 pounds. That tied the match at 66 after a pin by Parchment’s Greg Bosma in the 145-pound match. Lakewood second at league tournament, must share title The Vikings never got in a rhythm Saturday. That helped Corunna edge the Lakewood varsity wrestling team at the Capital Area Activities Conference White Division Tournament at Williamston High School, leaving the Cavaliers and Vikings to share the conference title. Lakewood won the league dual between the two teams by a single point. The Cavaliers didn’t win by much more than that Saturday, topping the Vikings 186 to 182.5 at the top of the standings. Portland was third with 163 points, followed by Williamston 130.5 and Perry 44. “We wrestled bad to start, then picked it up and wrestled a good round and beat a couple of number one seeds, then we kind of came out flat again,” said Lakewood head coach Bob Veitch. Part of that had to do with a choppy fiveteam tournament, where some weight classes had five wrestlers, some had four, and the 140-pound weight class had just three wrestlers. The Vikings’ Jordan Bennett won the 140-pound title by beating Corunna’s Matt Krembs 11-0 in his only match of the day. JV wrestlers also got in on the action during the day. Bennett was one of four Lakewood champions. Lars Pyrzinski won the 215-pound weight class by pinning Williamston’s Thomas Davis and then Portland’s Ryan Rock. Garrett Hyatt also won the 285-pound weight class with two pins, sticking Portland’s Patrick Burnham and then Williamston’s Mitch Maki. Dylan Shoup won the Vikings’ other title, taking the 125-pound weight class with a 6-0 win over Corunna’s Devin Cunningham in the finals. Lakewood had more wrestlers in the finals than Corunna, 8-7, but the Cavaliers won five championships and had three third-place fin- ishes while the Vikings had just one. Lakewood’s Jeremy Innes fell to Williamston’s Mitch Diamond 10-4 in the 130-pound championship. The Vikings’ Austin Gosnell fell to Portland’s Tony Savage 13-9 in the 103-pound final. Garrett Phelps was Lakewood’s other runner-up. He was pinned by Corunna’s Alex Benoit 4:46 into their 160-pound championship. Nick Briggs at 152 pounds was the Viking’s lone third-place finisher. The other four champions for Corunna were Dylan Cunningham at 135 pounds, Jordan Thomas at 152, Matt Pickler at 189 and Dylan Wibert at 112 pounds. The Vikings head to Pennfield Thursday for their Division 3 Team District Tournament, where they’ll face Olivet in the opening round. Pennfield takes on Delton Kellogg in the other semifinal there Thursday. Saturday, Lakewood will be hosting a Division 3 Individual District Tournament. Maple Valley’s Cash Flower (right) and Parchment’s Troy Williams battle for control during the second period of their 152-pound match Wednesday at Maple Valley High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Parchment took the lead back with Caleb Gurd pinning Brady Halliwell 3:09 into their 160-pound bout, then added a forfeit victory at 171. Franks’ match at 189 pounds was the only one that went the full six minutes. The Lions got pins from Alejandro Reid at 215 pounds and Jake Milbauer at 130, both coming in the first period of their matches. The Lions’Austin Davis also won by forfeit at 112 pounds. Parchment got pins the rest of the way from Scott Geringer at 285 pounds, Lino Gonzales at 103, Andy Cafferey at 119, Brandon Blankenship at 125 and Steven Rantz at 140. The Lions hosted a Division 4 Team District Tournament Wednesday. Maple Valley heads to Galesburg-Augusta for its Division 4 Individual District Tournament Saturday. BOWLING SCORES Tuesday Night Mixed Boyce Milk Haulers 61-31; Hurless Machine Shop 57.5-34.5; Hometown Lumber 53.5-38.5; Barry County Red Cross 49-39; JBar Antique Tractors 35-57; Dirt Broke 16-72. Men’s Good Games and Series - K. Beebe 216-550; G. Hause 205-557; C. Winkler 191534; D. Benner 191-519; S. Hause 177. Women’s Good Games and Series - D. Service- 177-416; D. Ware 184-462; S. Beebe 167-432; B. Ramey 163-441; M. Majava 158373. You’re Up N Shit 51; Eastsiders 46; Straightliners 45; Street Bowlers 45; Sandbaggers 43 1/2; Sunday Snoozers 37; Rollin Olins 36 1/2. Women’s Good Games and Series - F. Ames 214-513; A. Hubbell 173-511; M. Olin 168-476; C. Larsen 149-415; J. Healy 140395; C. Demott 125-343; M. Simpson 199; J. Rice 171; K. Plett 135. Men’s Good Games and Series - T. Heath 208-577; D. McKee 199-534; B. Allen 203518; M. Snyder 213. Thurs. Angels Miller Farm Repair 53.5-30.5; Rock-NBowlers 51.5-32.5; Hastings Bowl 51-33; Moore’s Apts. 48-36; Riverfront Fin. Ser. 4440; Cathy’s Cut & Curl 42-42; Varney’s Const. 38-46. High Game and Series - M. Miller 181; J. Wyant 170; C. Gdula 179-465; Cathy S. 150; K. Burch 135; N. Newton 141; L. Jackson 146; Colleen S. 178; M. Moore 188; L. Kendall 186; M. Weiler 148; R. Cheeseman 200-488; D. Curtis 195-558; A. Castelein 213; K. Shumway 209-505; J. Zaagman 209; J. Moore 154; C. Purdum 168; L. Brandt 185. Tuesday Trios Rollarama 64-28; CB’s 58-34; Look Insurance 53-39; Lu’s Team 52-40; Shirlee’s Team 51-41; Blair Landscaping** 47-41; Twisted Sisters 46-46; Team Turkey 43-49; Coleman Agency** 42-47; Classic 3 39-53; Trouble 34-58; Ghost Team 12-80. Blair Landscaping and Coleman Agency need to make up a game. High game and series - A. Trumble 117; C. Allwardt 149-409; S. Burd 129-362; G. Breitner 131-348; T. Thompson 162-438; R. Brummel 202; P. Ramey 178; L. Wiltshire 154; S. Vandenburg 257-563; D. Clark 144; K. Carpenter 196-495; L. Potter 179-505; S. Cross 123-335. Sunday Night Mixed Second quarter spurt powers Portland past Vikes by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Vikings need to play smarter, not hard- Ionia topped the Vikings 48-43 in non-conference action in Ionia Tuesday. The two teams were tied 29-29 heading into the fourth quarter, where the Bulldogs outscored the Vikings 19-14. Lakewood rallied in the second half to tighten up the ballgame, after the Bulldogs built a 23-16 lead in the first half with a 15-7 run in the second quarter. er. No coach could ask for a team to play harder. SAXON WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE Complete online schedule at: www.hassk12.org THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9 4:15 PM 4:30 PM 4:30 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM Boys Boys Girls Boys Boys Girls Middle Fresh. Fresh. Varsity JV JV Wrestling Basketball Basketball Swimming Basketball Basketball Quad South Christian HS South Christian HS Ottawa Hills HS South Christian HS South Christian HS WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 15 H A H H A H TBA Girls Varsity Cheer TBA Girls JV A A A 5:30 PM Girls 8th A 5:30 PM Girls 7th A Cheer 4:15 PM Girls 7th B Basketball 4:15 PM Girls 8th B Basketball 5:30 PM Boys Varsity Wrestling FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10 6:00 PM Girls Varsity Basketball South Christian HS 7:30 PM Boys Varsity Basketball South Christian HS 8:30 PM Boys Varsity Ice Hockey Lowell High School Lakewood’s Adam Barker fires up a shot during the first half Friday against Portland. (Photo by Brett Bremer) second half, and didn’t help itself by sending Krausz to the free throw line. He was 5-of-6 at the foul line. As a team the Raiders were 17-of-25. The Vikings didn’t help themselves at the line, hitting 7-of-16 attempts there. Jordan Cooper led Lakewood with 12 points. Kalib McKinney finished with seven The Vikings’ Mike Carr gets by Portland’s Logan Seal on his way to the basket during the first half Friday night. (Photo by Brett Bremer) points and Jacob Buehler had six. Buehler and McKinney both knocked down two threes each. David Parks had four rebounds for the Vikings. Adam Barker and Dylan Durkee had four assists each. The Vikings did only turn the ball over nine times in the ball game. Lakewood is now 2-12 overall this season and 2-5 in the CAAC-White. Individual Districts @ Hamilton 9:00 AM Boys Varsity Swimming Wayland Invitational 9:30 AM Boys MS Wrestling Ionia MS A A A Girls Girls Girls Girls 8th A 7th A 7th B 8th B Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Wayland MS Wayland MS Wayland MS Wayland MS H A A H TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 14 4:15 PM Boys MS 6:00 PM Girls Fresh. A H A A A H 4:30 PM 4:30 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM Boys Girls Boys Girls Fresh. Fresh. JV JV Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Ottawa Hills HS Ottawa Hills HS Ottawa Hills HS Ottawa Hills HS H A H A Times and dates subject to change MONDAY, FEBRUARY 13 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 5:30 PM 5:30 PM A THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16 SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11 9:00 AM Boys Varsity Wrestling Basketball Basketball Vicksburg HS Vicksburg Invitational Vicksburg HS Vicksburg Invitational Thornapple-Kellogg MS Thornapple-Kellogg MS Team Regionals @ Allegan Thornapple-Kellogg MS Thornapple-Kellogg MS Wrestling Caledonia HS A Basketball Lkwd. HS (Fresh. Only) H HASTINGS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS Contact Nancy 945-2742 or hastingsathleticboosters@gmail.com to sponsor the schedule Thanks to This Week’s Sponsor: Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, P.C. “Quality Care with Compassion” 840 Cook Rd. Hastings, MI 49058 Phone: 269-945-9520 Toll Free: 800-596-1005 Contact us on the web @ www.hoc-mi.com 77565699 “We play hard and we hustle, but we don’t do it in the correct ways,” said Lakewood head coach Mark Farrell after his team’s 5443 loss to visiting Portland Friday. “In other words, we run hard on the floor, we get after things, and we’re hustling. It’s not like we’re standing, but we don’t do it in the correct ways. We don’t take the correct angles, we aren’t boxing out.” The Vikings left Portland’s best perimeter player, Jared Krausz, alone too often Friday, and didn’t always get enough help on the Raiders’ best interior player, Dylan Carroll. The game was tied 10-10 early in the second quarter. A three-pointer by Krausz broke that tie and was the start of an 18-3 run in the final six minutes of the first half that put the Raiders in control of the game. Krausz hit three threes in the first half, including two in that run, and led all scorers with 19 points. Carroll, the Raiders’ 6-4 forward, dominated inside. He had nine points in the final 4:20 of the first half and finished with 15. “At half-time I go ‘guys, we practice this all the time. Where’s my back-side help?’” said Farrell. “They were just looking at me. There isn’t any back-side help. The big guy is not coming over. Then, in the second half the back-side help came over and we tipped it away or knocked it loose or whatever.” The Vikings outscored the Raiders in the first, third and fourth quarter combined, but the second half effort was too little too late. The Raiders led 28-13 at the half, and 11 points was as close as Lakewood would get the rest of the way. Lakewood got into foul trouble early in the McKinney led the Vikings with 13 points and Cooper added 12. The Bulldogs got 11 points from Austin Gregory, ten from Thomas White and seven each from Jacob Heppe and Alexander Conner-Wellman. The Vikings make the trip to Corunna for a league contest Friday, then will be home against Belding Tuesday. �Page 16 — Thursday, February 9, 2012 — The Hastings Banner TK closes out undefeated run through O-K Gold by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The last time Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity wrestling team won a conference championship, 112-pounder Ronaldo Sambrano wasn’t a wrestler. He wasn’t even in this country. And that was only three years ago. Thornapple Kellogg finished off a perfect season of O-K Gold Conference duals, 6-0, with a 35-23 victory over the Fighting Scots at Caledonia High School Wednesday. Caledonia ends the league duals with a 5-1 mark. The Trojans on the side of the mat leapt up and down, shouted, and waited, and waited and waited for the official to smack his hand to the mat as Sambrano held Caledonia’s Noah Williams on his back for much of the first and second periods. Finally with 50 seconds left in the second period he did, giving the Trojans a 32-18 lead and clinching the dual with two flights left. “How do you not love a kid who’s been in Middleville since January (2011). I can’t begin to explain how he came to Middleville (from a foster home in Honduras),” said TK head coach Scott Szczepanek. “Last January he was adopted by a family in Middleville, doesn’t know a lick of English, hasn’t been in a real school since probably sixth grade and gets thrown into high school and decides this year I’ll come out for wrestling.” TK clinched the outright conference title, its first conference title since 2009, by winning Friday night’s conference tournament at Forest Hills Eastern High School. Hastings and Caledonia shared the league title in 2010, and the Fighting Scots won it outright last year. “(Sambrano) hasn’t been wrestling in Middleville since he was in second grade, and he hasn’t been looking at Caledonia and Thornapple Kellogg 125-pounder Nick Flynn (top) tries to get control of Caledonia’s Bobby Montney during the first period of their match Wednesday at Caledonia High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Battle Creek & Climax Stores Winter/Think Spring SALE! 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Safety Salt • Peladow Mr. Magic In-Store Specials for Lawn & Garden, Pet, Wildlife & Bird LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED FOR OVER 90 YEARS. Hamblin Battle Creek FARM BUREAU Battle Creek FARM BUREAU Dickman Rd OP Ave Washington Jackson MN Ave Kendall FARM BUREAU I-94 44th St Battle Creek 42nd St 2 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU! 14325 OP Ave. Climax Hours: 8-5 Mon-Fri.; 8-Noon Sat. 269-746-4286 295 Hamblin Ave. Battle Creek Hours: 8:30-5 Mon-Fri.; 8:30-Noon Sat. 269-962-4025 No sales to retailers or wholesalers. Good while supplies last. We reserve the right to limit quantities. Hastings and those other teams that we need to beat,” said Szczepanek. “He showed up this year and said, ‘yeah coach I can learn,’ and you know that’s what he’s done every day. He’s worked and he’s learned.” The rest of the Trojans have been working too. “It’s the culmination of what we do Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday up in our balcony in the high school,” said Szczepanek. “We’ve been preaching all week ... we didn’t want to wait for a Wednesday night and try to be special one night. We needed a special effort every day. And the kids, I’m kind of speechless about what they’ve done. They’ve done so much since the end of October, to start themselves conditioning and start themselves thinking about the goals they wanted to have for the season.” While TK got itself off to a good start to the season, it was the Scots who got off to a good start in the dual, taking a 12-0 lead in the first three matches. Joey Montney and Garrett Hubbell won two-point decisions at 130- and 140-pounds respectively for the Scots, and Brad Orszula won by injury default at 135 pounds when Austin Sensiba couldn’t continue on for TK. TK though won the next four to go up 1712, and never trailed the rest of the way. That Trojan run started with Oscar Cardosa topping Paul Williams 16-6 in the 145-pound match. Cole Gahan added another major decision for TK at 152, topping Jon Hubbell 12-4. Both Trojans had to rally for six points in the third period to turn their decision into majors. TK then got a 12-7 win from Cody Ybema over Travis Pitsch at 160, and Dan Dykstra scored the first pin of the evening by sticking Austin Simmons 2:48 into the 171-pound match. “We got the lead. Everything went exactly how we had anticipated, except for 215,” said Caledonia head coach Shawn Veitch. “We thought we could get a win there. Our other job was to stay off our backs, but they got a few more pins. That was where we needed to make up our points.” Caledonia pulled within 17-15 thanks to Thornapple Kellogg’s Cole Gahan (left) and Cody Ybema (right) greet teammate Ronaldo Sambrano after his pin of Caledonia’s Noah Williams in their 112-pound bout Tuesday night sealed the victory for the Trojans in their O-K Gold Conference dual with the Scots. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Kyle Schutt’s 3-2 win over Pete Westra in the 189-pound match. Austin Koehl though kept TK in front in the dual by pulling out a 4-3 win over the Scots’ Joel Wenk. “99 our of 100 high school kids pout about it, but (Wenk) was a leader,” Veitch said. “He didn’t pout. He came right back and encouraged the team all night long. We had a script. He knew he was supposed to win that match, for us to win the dual. I’m really happy with him, more as a man than as a wrestler.” TK then added six more points to its lead with Adrian Foster’s pin of Jake VanderVeen 3:18 into the 285-pound match. John Leark kept Caledonia alive in the dual, scoring a 4-1 win over Chris Poland at 103-pounds, but Sambrano’s pin sealed the win for TK. Spencer Plattner took the 119-pound match when TK’s Ryan Flynn had to stop in the third period with an injury, and then TK’s Nick Flynn closed out the dual by topping the Scots’ Bobby Montney 2-1. “Just a classy program, and I love the fact how their past wrestlers come back in the room,” Veitch said of Thornapple Kellogg. “All their old coaches are still around. It’s just a great heritage of wrestling. I just think that’s really cool for this sport. They don’t care who’s the head coach. Scotty has done a great job, but it’s just great to see everybody still there supporting.” The Trojans gave their supporters lots to be happy about Friday, winning six championships and 12 total medals at the conference tournament. DK cheer sets school record by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Panthers have never been better. Delton Kellogg’s varsity competitive cheer team set a school-record Saturday, scoring a 677.2930 at its own DK Invitational. That’s about 20 points better than the previous record, set two seasons ago. “Definitely felt like the hard work and dedication they’ve been putting in the last couple weeks really paid off,” said Delton Kellogg head coach Zoe Reynolds. “Our new saying is ‘I believe in myself, I believe in my team.’ I think they are taking that to heart and actually believing in themselves and believing in the team.” The Panthers were second Saturday, to Gull Lake which had the highest score in each of the three rounds and a final total of 701.4916. Pennfield was third with a 625.7316, followed by Coloma 615.6400, Allegan 610.0954, Bangor 601.2572 and Maple Valley 575.2400. The Blue Devils won with a 214.5 in round one, a 199.2916 in round two and a 287.7 in round three. “We may have lost to Gull Lake today, but it was a good loss in a sense,” said Reynolds. “We did well and we gave everything we had to give. Now we just have a little more to work at.” Delton scored a 207.8 in round one, a 189.4930 in round two and a 280.0 in round three. The round two performance earned the Panthers’ their highest score ever in that round, as the girls hit on all their skills including two jumps, a heel stretch, a backwalkover and the splits. “We had a very clean round three today, which is nice. They hit all of their skills in round two. Round one was normal for us I Delton Kellogg’s varsity competitive cheer team set a new school record with its score of 677.2930 Saturday at the DK Invitational. That score put the Panthers in second place behind Gull Lake on the day. (Photo by Brett Bremer) guess. I mean it was a little bit higher score, but it was normal,” Reynolds said. Maple Valley scored a 178.5 in round one, a 151.9400 in round two and a 244.8 in round three. “They’re improving,” Lion head coach Donna Nisse said. “Their round one and two were better. Round three was a little rough because we had to rewrite the whole thing this week.” Injuries brought about the changes to round three for the Lions. “We’re getting our tumbling down,” said Nisse. “We have some walkovers and we’re improving on that. Their stunting skills are a lot better. We have our OLE (one legged extension). We have twist cradles, and that’s something we didn’t have last year.” Both the Lions and Panthers will head to Schoolcraft Saturday for the Southern Michigan Competitive Cheer Conference Championship, where the Delton Kellogg girls will be chasing their second SMCCC title in the past three years. KEEP YOUR FRIENDS AND RELATIVES INFORMED! Send them a gift subscription to The Hastings BANNER To order your subscription, call... 269-945-9554 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 9, 2012 — Page 17 Hastings shares second place with Fighting Scots Hastings jumped up into second place in the final O-K Gold Conference standings with its runner-up finish at the conference tournament at Forest Hills Eastern High School Friday. Thornapple Kellogg had six champions and 12 medalists to win its first conference title since 2009, after an undefeated season of league duals. Hastings had just one champion, Kenny Cross at 160 pounds, but had six wrestlers finish in second place. The Saxons had 13 total medalists, more than any other team. “We needed to wrestle well on Friday and have a little luck,” said Saxon coach Mike Goggins. “The wrestling happened, but the luck did not. With 13 medalist we placed more than either Middleville or Caledonia. But a few unlucky breaks in the finals cost us the upset against Middleville.” TK finished the evening of wrestling with 213 points. Hastings scored 189.5 points, to earn a share the league’s runner-up spot with Caledonia, which was third Friday with 163.5 points. Catholic Central was fourth in the tournament standings, despite having more conference champions than any team but TK. The Saxon 112-pounder Zach Wilcox (top) tries to turn Wayland’s Jovy Bileth during their semifinal match at the O-K Gold Conference Tournament Friday at Forest Hills Eastern High School. Cougars had three champs, and finished with 134 points. Wayland was fifth with 99 points, followed by Forest Hills Eastern 49.5 and Ottawa Hills 6. The Saxons and Trojans met up in six championship matches. TK won five of those, with Chris Poland topping Aaron Williams 74 in the 103-pound final; Oscar Cardosa beating Stephen Kendall 15-5 at 145 pounds; Cole Gahan pinning Chase Huisman 5:55 into their 152-pound final; Austin Koehl pinning Nate Pewoski 50 seconds into the 215-pound championship; and Adrian Foster pinning Mike Pewoski in 4:16 in the 285-pound title bout. It was a tough loss for Huisman, who led Gahan 10-3 when he was caught on his back and pinned in the final minute of the match. The only Saxon to win a match-up with a Trojan in the finals was Cross, who topped Cody Ybema 4-2 in the 160-pound championship. TK and Hastings wrestlers also met up in three consolation finals, with TK winning all three. Pete Westra was third for TK at 189 pounds, winning by injury default against Cody Newton. TK’s Nate Iveson pinned Jason Slaughter 4:28 into their 140-pound consolation final. In the 125-pound consolation final, TK’s Nick Flynn topped the Saxons’ Davey Case who was disqualified from their match. Case had never lost to Flynn before. “Sometimes you have to be good and lucky,” Goggins said. “Luck was on a Middleville’s side on Friday, and they wrestled well. Still, we feel good about our results as we try to get past Middleville one more time.” The Saxons and Trojans were set to meet in the Division 2 District Semifinals at Byron Center High School Wednesday. The host Bulldogs and Wayland Wildcats made up the The Saxons’ Jason Slaughter (right) works to take down Forest Hills Eastern’s Anthony Castillo during their consolation semifinal Friday at the O-K Gold Tournament. other half of the district bracket. TK also had Paul Haney top Joey Montney 5-2 in the 130-pound championship match Friday. The Trojans’ other runner-up was Dan Dykstra, who fell 9-8 to Catholic Central’s Andre Cargill in the 171-pound championship. The TK team also had Ronaldo Sambrano finish fourth at 112 pounds. Caledonia’s lone champion was John Leark at 112 pounds. He topped Hastings’ Zach Wilcox 11-4 in the finals. Other medal winning performances for Hastings were a third-place finishes by Shane Tossava at 119 pounds and Joey Siska at 135, and a fourth-place finish for Joe Krebs at 171 pounds. Runners-up for Caledonia were Spencer Plattner who fell 22-4 to FHE’s Tim Lambert in the 125 pound final; Ethan Young who was pinned by Wayland’s Zane Corey 45 seconds into their 125-pound championship; Brad Orszula who was downed 5-1 by Wayland’s Derek Fifelski at 135 pounds; and Kyle Schutt who fell 6-4 to Catholic Central’s Dan Drummond at 189 pounds; and Montney at 130. Catholic Central’s third champion was Joe English at 140 pounds, he topped Wayland’s Zack Corey 6-4 in their championship match. TK girls top Saxons by a single point in Hastings by Brett Bremer Sports Editor More than half of the games the Hastings varsity girls’ basketball team will play this winter, barring a long postseason run, will be against teams that are either among the top ten teams in their class in the state or the honorable mention ranks. The Saxons are playing 11 for their 21 scheduled games against the likes of Grand Rapids Catholic Central, Wayland, Caledonia, South Christian, Delton Kellogg, Concord and Portland That’s what makes nights like Tuesday so tough - nights when a close one gets away. Thornapple Kellogg scored a 41-40 win in O-K Gold Conference action at Hastings High School. Taylor Carter hit the second of two free throws with 10.7 seconds remaining to pull the Saxons within one. The Trojans turned the ball right over to the Saxons following a timeout, and Hastings got one great look at the basket in the lane and a couple of other attempts off as the final seconds ticked down but couldn’t convert on the game-winner. “I got multiple shots throughout the night that we wanted,” said Hastings head coach Steve Laubaugh. “We got shots, free throws, lay-ups. I mean, we are good enough to win this ballgame and we had the plan to do it. I don’t know what you can do other than to shoot the shots there. They didn’t go in.” Shots were falling in the opening quarter. Hastings started the game on a 9-0 run, led 13-2 after one quarter, then opened the second quarter with a three-pointer by Taylor Carter that pushed the lead to 16-2. That lead didn’t last until the half though. TK went on an 18-2 run the rest of the half that was spurred by its defense, taking a 20-18 lead with 11 seconds left before the break on a three by Lauren Bailey. “The press got us back into the game,” said TK head coach Jesse Bays. “When you’re down 13-2 and you’re struggling to score a bucket, and if you can’t score you can’t press. We didn’t have a chance to press. Once they got calmed down and we got a chance to press, it ended up being a life-saver. It actually turned out to be part of our offense as well.” The Saxons were able to figure out the Trojan press some in the second half, attacking the edges rather than trying to pass it through the middle of the defense. TK held a slim lead throughout the third quarter, then the two teams were back and forth throughout the fourth quarter. “We lost in the second quarter,” said Laubaugh. “The end of the first quarter was 14-2 or something. It was gigantic. We let the gym tilt in their direction. We didn’t get the ball across half-court. After half-time, we played 100 times better than we did in the second quarter and we made zero X and O adjustments. We just said, your attitude has to go from afraid to fearless. They did that. Just Saxon forward Erin Gray flips a shot up over Thornapple Kellogg’s Molly Lark during the first quarter Tuesday at Hastings High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Saxon guard Grace Meade fires up a short jumper as part of her team’s 9-0 run to start Tuesday’s contest with Thornapple Kellogg. (Photo by Brett Bremer) missed the shots we needed to make.” The Saxons were 11-of-15 at the free throw line, but three of those misses came in the fourth quarter. Kelli Graham led TK with 14 points and Crystal Smith chipped in 11. Laubaugh said his team was happy with the effort on the Trojans’ only true post-player, Shelby Tedrow. Tedrow had been in doublefigures in all three of the Trojans’ previous victories, but the Saxons were able to limit her to four points. Hastings got 18 points from Carter, who hit three threes, nine points from Grace Meade and six from Dani Meredith. “Both teams scrapped,” Bays said. “I thought it was a hard fought game by both teams. I think it would be a lot better for both of us, me and Steve, if our girls played like this against everybody.” The Saxons head to South Christian Friday, while the Trojans will be at Forest Hills Eastern. Hastings is now 1-15 overall this season and 1-9 in the O-K Gold. TK improves to 4-12 overall and 3-7 in the league. Catholic Central topped the Saxons in league play in Grand Rapids Friday, 53-15. Carter had seven points for Hastings. Catholic Central got eight each from Shellis Hampton and Anna Faber, and seven points from Tiesha Stokes. Wayland raced out to a 24-9 first quarter advantage, and went on to a 69-37 win over the visiting Trojans Friday night. Smith had a big night for TK. She knocked down three three-pointers and finished with a game-high 24 points. Smith was the only Trojan with more than four points though, while Wayland had five girls with at least eight. Nina DiCesare and Autumn Anderson had 14 points each for the Wildcats, combining for three threes between the two of them. Wayland also got ten points from Jenna Jamieson, nine from Presley Hudson and eight from Molly Lameyer. Hastings is first team to finish ahead of TK in O-K Gold meet Hastings guard Taylor Carter drives past Thornapple Kellogg’s Erin Ellinger during the first half of Tuesday night’s O-K Gold Conference contest at Hastings High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The Saxons made sure there was no homemat advantage for the Trojans Wednesday. Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity competitive cheer team was topped for the first time in OK Gold Conference action this season, finishing just over 17 points behind Hastings at the O-K Gold Conference jamboree it hosted in Middleville. The Saxons trailed by nearly six points heading into the third round, where they outscored the Trojans 301.7 to 278.1. Hastings finished the day with a threeround score of 731.3068. TK was second with a score of 713.4923, a total that included an eight-point deduction in the third round. TK led by 8.4 points after round one, a round in which they outscored the Saxons 224 to 215.6. Hastings edged closer in round two, outscoring TK 214.0068 to 211.4923. Wayland was third with a 691.0007, followed by Grand Rapids Catholic Central 676.9020 and Caledonia 652.0835. Caledonia scored a 200.8 in round one, a 192.1335 in round two and a 259.2 in round three. The Scots had a lead on Catholic Central heading into the third round, but the Cougars scored the second-best score of the evening in round number three - 289.3. The league was scheduled to get together one more time, Wednesday at Grand Rapids Catholic Central where a champion was to be crowned. TKHS baseball holds second mattress sale fundraiser on Sunday The Thornapple Kellogg High School baseball program will hold its 2nd Annual Mattress Sale Fundraiser Sunday at Thornapple Kellogg High School. Mattresses will be on display from noon to 5 p.m. Name brand mattress sets will be sold at 30 to 60 percent below retail prices. The mattresses, in all sizes and price ranges, come will full factory warranties. Prices start at $199. There will be 15 to 20 to chose from. Delivery is available, or mattresses can be picked up at the company’s warehouse about two weeks after the sale. Profits go directly to the TKHS baseball program. �Page 18 — Thursday, February 9, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Tyler Dempsey wins Delton’s lone title at KVA Tournament Delton Kellogg held on to sixth place in the final Kalamazoo Valley Association standings with its seventh-place finish at the conference tournament Friday in Constantine. The host Falcons had no trouble holding onto first place. After a 7-0 season of league duals, Constantine won Saturday’s KVA Tournament by 57 points over runner-up Parchment. The Falcons finished the day with 204 points. Parchment was second with 147, followed by Schoolcraft 134.5, Maple Valley 110, Pennfield 87, Olivet 53, Delton Kellogg 52 and Galesburg-Augusta 24. Delton Kellogg had three medalists, including 130-pound champion Tyler Dempsey. Dempsey never even made it into the second period of a match. He pinned Parchment’s Andrew Chapa 1 minute and 50 seconds into their semifinal round match, then stuck Maple Valley’s Jake Milbauer 1:49 into the championship. Evan Curtice reached the finals as well for Delton Kellogg, at 160 pounds. He pinned Pennfield’s Nick Schwartz and Parchment’s Caleb Gurd, before falling to Constantine’s Jeremiah Waterman 17-1 in the finals. The Delton team’s other medalist was Devin Kallee, who fell 7-3 to Constantine’s Seth Stears in the consolation final at 215 pounds. Alejandro Reid, one of seven Maple Valley medalists, won the 215-pound weight class. He scored a 10-2 win over Kallee in the semifinals, then topped Schoolcraft’s Jack Bensley 4-1 in the championship round. The Lion team also had Austin Davis win the 112-pound title. He didn’t have a match last a minute, pinning Galesburg-Augusta’s Tyler Pawlawski in 51 seconds in the semi’s and then Schoolcraft’s Connor Briggs in 52 seconds in the championship match. Three Maple Valley wrestlers reached the finals, but did not win titles, Milbauer at 130, Andy Zank at 135 and Cash Flower at 152. Zank was pinned by Constantine’s Andreas Montoya 5:28 in to their championship match. Flower fell to Constantine’s Ben Mallo in 1:25 in the 152-pound championship. Kodee Crouch at 103 pounds and Darius France at 171 earned fourth-place medals for Maple Valley. Other conference champions included Parchment’s Lino Gonzales at 103 pounds, Andy Caffrey at 119 and Steven Rantz at 140, Pennfield’s Roy Herpin at 145, Schoolcraft’s Nathan Ebersberger at 125 pounds and Charles Edick at 285, and Constantine’s Dominick Rogers at 171 pounds and Martin Montoya at 189. Delton Kellogg heads to Pennfield today for its Division 3 Team District Tournament, where it will face the host Panthers in the opening round. Lakewood and Olivet meet in the other district semifinal there. Lakewood will then host a Division 3 Individual District Tournament Saturday, which includes the Panthers. Delton Kellogg varsity girls’ basketball coach Mike Mohn discusses things with his team during its 20-point win over visiting Constantine Friday night. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Delton Kellogg’s girls score 20-point win over Constantine Constantine’s Makayla Parsons scored ten of her 13 points in the third quarter. That was about all there was for the Delton Kellogg varsity girls’ basketball team to be unhappy about on Winterfest night at Delton Kellogg High School Friday. Delton Kellogg center Mallory Sewell fires up a short jump shot Friday night against Constantine. (Photo by Perry Hardin) The Panthers improved to 13-2 overall and 11-2 in the Kalamazoo Valley Association with a 50-30 win over the visiting Falcons. “We got out to a big lead to start with, then I think we kind of sat back and watched things happen in the third quarter,” said Delton Kellogg head coach Mike Mohn. The Falcons outscored the Panthers 12-9 in that third quarter, but the rest of the night was dominated by Delton. The Panthers outscored the Falcons 18-3 in the opening quarter, and pushed their lead to 32-9 at the half. For the night, the Panthers had 12 assists and only eight turnovers. Delton had 12 steals, in the first half, and 15 in the game. The Panthers outrebounded Constantine 30 to 8. Delton forward Adrianna Culbert had twice as many rebounds as the whole Falcon teams. She finished with 14 points and 16 rebounds. A few of those rebounds were off her own misses as she hit just 6-of-19 shots from the floor. “She couldn’t buy a hoop for nothing, but she kept battling and that’s what was cool,” said Mohn. Mohn also said that Alea Hammond played her best game of the season . She finished with 11 points. Delton also got 12 points from Taylor Sewell. “It is what it is, a 20-point win. We’ll take it,” said Mohn. “It’s Winterfest, so everybody is happy and we’ll move on down the highway.” The upcoming stretch of “highway” includes a trip to Parchment Friday. Parchment is 10-3 in the KVA, and has helped out Delton Kellogg by handing Olivet its only two league losses of the season this year. Delton and Olivet are still tied atop the league standings at 11-2. Delton Kellogg boys score their 10th conference win Delton Kellogg’s varsity boys’ basketball team improved to 11-2 overall and 10-2 in the Kalamazoo Valley Association with a 5337 win over visiting Constantine Friday. The Panthers got some breathing room in the second quarter, outscoring the Falcons 13-8 to go into the half with a 28-21 lead. Delton then shut the door on the Falcons in the fourth quarter, limiting them to just four points in the final eight minutes as the Panthers pulled away. Ryan Watson hit five threes in the contest and finished with 23 points. The entire Delton Kellogg team combined for eight threes in the contest. Watson also had a teamhigh five assists. Mitchell Wandell chipped in 17 points for the Panthers, while Connor Wolschleger had six and Norm O’Meara five. Adam May led Delton with nine rebounds. The Panthers’ Norm O’Meara fires a shot up over Constantine’s Chase Niblock Friday night. (Photo by Perry Hardin) 77565702 Constantine got 13 points from Payton White, and nine from Scott Sehy. Delton Kellogg is now on the road for its next three ballgames, starting with a trip to Parchment Friday night. Next week, the Panthers visit Kalamazoo Christian Tuesday and Galesburg-Augusta Friday. Delton Kellogg’s Ryan Watson flips up a shot during his team’s 53-37 win over visiting Constantine Friday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads! � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-02-16.pdf 37f2550ae8ab31fa1023dd1feeef0720 PDF Text Text County readies for land preservation discussion Funding for state’s roads gets attention Vikings dominate at district tourney See Story on Page 2 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 18 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 7 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, February 16, 2012 Council gets update on Michigan Ave. bridge work NEWS BRIEFS Superintendent interviews continue tonight The Hastings Board of Education will continue interviewing candidates for the district’s superintendent’s post this evening, Thursday, Feb. 16, from 6 to 8 p.m. in the multi-purpose room of Hastings Middle School, 232 W. Grand St. Wednesday, Feb. 15, the board interviewed three candidates: Sean McNatt, superintendent of Breckenridge Public Schools; Terry Urquhart, principal of Forest Hills Central High School; and Todd Geerlings, assistant superintendent of Mona Shores Public Schools. Interviews continue tonight, with Timothy Allard, superintendent and principal of Galien Public Schools; and Hastings Area Schools Interim Superintendent Michelle Falcon at 7 p.m. Love Inc. benefit concert planned in Delton Friday A benefit concert to support Love Inc. of Barry County will be from 6:15 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 17, at the Delton Kellogg High School auditorium, 10425 Panther Pride, Delton. The purpose of the concert is to raise awareness of needs in Barry County communities and to help replenish nonperishable food and clothing items for Love Inc. A variety of local performers will play at the event, and suggested admission is a non-perishable canned good or article of clothing. The concert is an Eagle Scout service project being coordinated by Mason Calhoun, a Life Scout from Boy Scout Troop 108 in Banfield. For additional information, visit Facebook the page Love Inc. Benefit Concert. Several blood drives planned The American Red Cross has scheduled local blood drives in the coming weeks: Delton — Monday, Feb. 20, St. Ambrose Church, 11149 Floria Road, 1 to 6:45 p.m. Hastings — Thursday, Feb. 23, First Presbyterian Church, 405 N. M37 Highway, 1 to 6:45 p.m. Lake Odessa — Monday, Feb. 27, Central United Methodist Church, 912 Fourth Ave., noon to 5:45 p.m. Nashville — Thursday, March 1, Grace Community Church, 8950 East M-79, 1 to 6:45 p.m. For more information on blood and platelet donation or to schedule a donation time, visit www.redcrossblood.org or call 800-RED-CROSS (800-733-2767). Anyone who is at least 17, weighs a minimum of 110 pounds, is in reasonably good health and has not donated for 56 days is eligible. Call 945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Portions of North Michigan Avenue and East Mill Street will be closed during the Michigan Avenue bridge reconstruction, which is slated to begin Monday, March 5, and be completed by Aug. 30. Hastings City Manager Jeff Mansfield and Hastings Director of Public Services Tim Girrbach both gave updates to the Hastings City Council Monday, during its first regular meeting for the month of February. Mansfield and Girrbach reported that the Michigan Department of Transportation awarded the contract for the $2.3 million project Feb. 6 to Davis Construction Company of Lansing, which submitted the lowest qualifying bid for the project. While the bridge will be closed to all traffic beginning March 5, a portion of East Mill Street is already closed to through traffic, but will remain open for emergency vehicles only. Mill Street east of Michigan Avenue will be closed to through traffic from Boltwood Street to Michigan Avenue but will remain open for local traffic only. The street closures will last for the duration of the bridge replacement project and are scheduled to reopen in mid-August. Traffic will be detoured to Woodlawn Avenue, North Broadway and Apple Street during the project. Detailed detour signs will be in place for the duration of the construction. Mansfield said access will be provided for businesses and other facilities in the project areas to the fullest extent possible. “Before and during construction, we fully intend to keep the business owners in the area informed of the proposed schedule for the work, date for closure of the existing bridge, detour routes, etc.,” said Girrbach. According to Mansfield, initial work on the bridge project includes installation of temporary utilities for use during construction; demolition and removal of the bridge deck, rail, superstructure and center pier; and demolition and removal of one of the bridge abutments. Demolition is scheduled to be completed by Saturday, March 31. “The new bridge will provide a clear span of the Thornapple River,” he said. “The existing center pier will not be replaced.” “We are very much excited to finally get this project off the ground and under con- struction,” said Girrbach. “It is the culmination of almost 20 years of effort, relentlessly pursuing grants for this $2.3 million project.” “North Broadway will also serve as a detour route for the Michigan Avenue bridge project during the time it is under reconstruction ... It’s going to be a busy summer.” Hastings City Manager Jeff Mansfield In addition to the Michigan Avenue bridge replacement, MDOT has three other projects planned within the city of Hastings during the summer of 2012. Projects include reconstruction of M-37 from the South Hanover and Green Street intersection to the intersection of Broadway and State streets; reconstruction of M-43 from the Broadway and State Street intersection north to the city limits; and, redecking of the M-43 (North Broadway) bridge over the Thornapple River. MDOT officials have said they will let bids for those three projects in April and anticipate construction on those projects to begin on or around Monday, April 16. The work is scheduled to be completed by the end of the 2012 construction season. MDOT intends to keep two lanes of traffic (one in each direction) open along the entire length of the project throughout the duration of the work. “Please note that North Broadway will also serve as a detour route for the Michigan Avenue bridge project during the time it is under reconstruction,” said Mansfield. “It’s going to be a busy summer.” In related action Monday, city council approved a motion to change its street lighting contract with Consumers Energy to reflect the removal of the existing center-mountcable-supported streetlight at the intersection A taste of things to come: Signs, barriers and traffic barrels are brought in Friday to close off Mill Street from North Jefferson Street to Michigan Avenue for the Michigan Avenue bridge replacement project. of Green Street and South Broadway, and the installation of two pole-mounted streetlights at the intersection. The MDOT resurfacing project will include the installation of a new traffic and pedestrian signal system at the intersection and would no longer allow center-mounted streetlights to be located with traffic signals due to the possibility of visual conflicts between the signal and the street light. The city will not incur any cost for the actual work involved in removing the existing streetlight or installing the new ones, according to Mansfield. However, he said, under the contract amendment, the city would pay for the maintenance and energy costs of the two streetlights at the intersection instead of one. “MDOT and Consumers may well agree to install only one light at this intersection should the city request that,” he said, “but this is an extremely busy intersection for both motorists and pedestrians located very near Central Elementary and the middle school, so adequate lighting is very important.” In other business, the council: • Held a first reading on a package of ordi- nances that, if approved, would amend zoning in and around the downtown and other areas zoned for commercial use, as well as amending the boundaries of certain zoning districts in those areas. The Hastings Planning Commission has held public hearings since the package was presented in draft form during a city council workshop in August 2011. The draft ordinances are either specifically recommended in the city’s master plan or are consistent with the findings or recommendations of the master plan. • Denied a request from Odd Jobs Taxi to have the city’s insurance requirements waived. • Approved a request from the South Jefferson Street Parade Committee to hold its annual St. Patrick’s Day parade at 4 p.m. Friday, March 16. • Approved a request from Valerie Byrnes on behalf of the Hastings Farmers Market to use parking spaces adjacent to the market for unloading and loading by vendors. The market will set up along State Street on Wednesdays, and Church Street on Saturdays, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. June through October. Keiper found guilty of first degree murder by David DeDecker Staff Writer The Jason Lee Keiper trial started in Barry County Circuit Court on Feb. 13 before Judge Amy McDowell. Keiper was charged with open murder charges for allegedly killing his step-grandfather with a hammer(s). Keiper has been lodged in the Barry County Jail since his arrest last March. On Feb. 15, Keiper was found guilty of first degree murder by a jury of his peers. The attorney for the defense, David Gilbert, will file a motion for a mistrial due to certain testimony in the trial. Syrup festival queen, court selected Meghann Zank (left) is the 2012 Vermontville Maple Syrup Festival Queen. She is joined here by her court (from left) Gretchen Hakenjos, Yulanda Sheridan and Shennondoah Fighter. Judging for this year’s syrup festival queen took place Tuesday, Feb. 14, in Vermontville. The festival will take place April 27 to 29. (Photo by Jim Miller) After a jury was selected on the morning of Feb. 13, Barry County Prosecutor Tom Evans presented his opening statement and asked the jury to find Keiper guilty of first degree murder. Gilbert, for the defense, then gave his opening remarks stating his client had killed Ralph Edwards, but being molested as a child and knowing his aunt was also molested had a dramatic effect on him, and the jury should not find him guilty of anything more than voluntary manslaughter. The prosecution called Chief Victor Pierce of the Barry Township Police to testify about finding the body of Ralph Edwards at his Cedar Creek Road home. Pierce turned the case over to Michigan State Police because of the severity of the crime. He also contacted the Battle Creek Police to advise them of the possible whereabouts of Jason Keiper. Keiper was later found by the Battle Creek Police and arrested after shouting at them to shoot him and then stabbing himself in the throat with a knife several times. Battle Creek Officer James Bailey Jr. testified to Keiper’s actions when confronted by the police. He told the court Keiper would not drop the knife, wanted to be shot, and needed to be tasered twice before submitting to arrest. MSP Trooper Kelly Linebaugh testified to arriving on scene in Battle Creek to take custody of Keiper and ride with the suspect in an ambulance to a Kalamazoo hospital. Linebaugh said the ambulance was rerouted by the closer Battle Creek hospital to the Kalamazoo hospital. The trooper stated he didn’t know why the reroute happened. Dr. John Bechinski, a forensic pathologist from Sparrow Hospital, testified to performing the autopsy, the injuries sustained by Ralph Edwards and the severe head trauma inflicted by a blunt instrument. Two autopsy photos were shown to the jury and entered into evidence. Michigan State Police Detective Terry Klotz and Trooper Kevin Keto also testified about the crime scene and how the body and weapons were found. They stated blood was found all over the bed in which the victim was found, on the floor, a lampshade and the wooden paneling behind the bed. A claw hammer and ball pean hammer were found under Edwards’ bed and sent to the MSP crime lab. Keiper’s mother, Teresa Keiper, took the stand, identifying Ralph Edwards as her step father and Jason as her son. She told Gilbert her son had called around 4:37 p.m. the day of the killing, March 9. “When I answered the phone he said ‘Mom, you know I love you? Mom, don’t ever forget that I love you.’ I said, ‘Well Jason, I know you love me. What’s the matter? Something is the matter.’ He said, ‘I am not proud of what I did Mom. You’re not going to be proud of me, either. But, I love you.’ He reiterated that over and over. I said, ‘What did you do? Mom can’t help if you don’t tell me.’ He said, ‘I had a fight with Ralph. I grabbed a hammer and hit him in the head.’ I said, ‘Ahh, what were you fighting about?’ He said, ‘Michelle.’” Keiper’s mother asked him where he was and he told her it didn’t matter. “I am not going to see you again,” Keiper told his mother. “Because I have a gun and you are not going to see me again.” Gilbert asked her if she knew what the argument between Keiper and Edwards was about. She said he didn’t mention it. She said the two had an argument three days earlier about Edwards molesting her younger sister (Michelle Creek) when she was young and that Keiper blamed Edwards for ruining her life. Gilbert asked, “Was that common knowledge?” See KEIPER, page 15 �Page 2 — Thursday, February 16, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Hastings schools administration holds State attorney general first millage information session takes Terpening cases by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Hastings Area Schools Interim Superintendent Michelle Falcon last week held the first of two scheduled community information sessions about the proposed recreational millage which will be on the ballot Tuesday, May 8. Approximately 35 people attended the meeting which was in the Hastings High School lecture hall Thursday, Feb. 9. The proposed 1.6 mill 10-year levy is expected to generate $779,000 in revenue per year, which will be used to defray the cost of providing community recreational facilities students and residents, while returning a like amount to the district’s general fund budget for instructional programs. The millage would partially offset reductions in state funding and decrease the number of program reductions that will need to be made during the 2012-13 school year. “As a school district that provides for the use of athletic fields, gymnasiums, playgrounds, pool and other facilities for community events, we are allowed to ask the community for financial support through a millage campaign to cover many of the costs resulting from the community use of school facilities,” said Falcon in her presentation. “Legally, it is called a recreational millage and is one of only two ways schools can collect operational funds through a millage.” Falcon said the district currently uses money from its general fund to cover the cost of recreational facilities used by the public. She said funds generated from the recreational millage could be used to repair a ballfield one year and to repair a gymnasium floor or replace equipment the next year. Current expenses, totaling $815,000, that would be partially offset by the proposed millage include building operations, $230,000; maintenance and supervisor costs, $165,000; supplies and equipment, $40,000; after-school custodial services, $180,000; after-school utility costs, $200,000. Residents in the Hastings Area School district can calculate how much the millage will cost by multiplying the taxable value of their homes by .0016. For example, a home with an estimated market value of $50,000 and a taxable value of $25,000 would cost $40 per year or 11 cents per day. A home with an estimated market value of $100,000 and a taxable value of $50,000 would cost $80 per year, or 22 cents per day. Falcon said the district is currently working on its budget for the 2012-13 school year, and many variables will impact it. “It is very difficult to specify exactly what cuts will be made,” said Falcon. “Revenue from this millage will help offset costs and assist us in preserving academic programs.” Proposed reductions for the 2012-13 school year include teaching staff; financial support for co-curricular activities, including band, choir, art, drama, vocational programs and athletics; teacher training and development; special education staff; support staff; and curriculum resources. The district has scheduled its next commu- nity information meeting on the millage for 7 p.m. Thursday, March 1, in the high school lecture hall. The last day to register to vote in the May 8 school election is Monday, April 9. Application for absentee ballots will be available March 24 and are due by Saturday, May 5. Citizens who wish to volunteer to help promote the proposed millage or would like more information are encouraged to log on to the district website, www.hassk12.org, or contact the Falcon, mfalcon@hassk12.org; Hastings Board of Education president Kevin Beck, kbeck@hassk12.org; board trustee Rob Longstreet, rlongstreet@hassk12.org; or contact the following members of the Citizens for Education Committee: Mark Kolanowski, Troy Carlson, Kristen Cove or Val Slaughter. Citizens for Education group forms During a millage community information meeting Thursday, Feb. 9, Hastings Area Schools Interim Superintendent Michelle Falcon introduced members of Citizens for Education, a group formed to support and promote education and Hastings Area Schools. In a later interview, Mark Kolanowski, who co-chairs the organization along with Troy Carlson, said that while the group supports and will work to promote the proposed recreational millage, its members a larger purpose and will continue beyond the May 8 millage election. “We are a new grassroots organization of parents, grandparents and citizens at large who hope to have a long-term positive influence as we help move Hastings education in the right direction,” he said. “We hope to have a life well beyond the millage. We have a relationship with the district and have asked them to be accountable and transparent with us, and they have been.” The goal of Citizens for Education is to support and promote Hastings Area Schools for the benefit of its students. In addition to Carlson and Kolanowski, Citizens for Education members include Kristen Cove, data coordinator; Val Slaughter, treasurer; and members Tom Wilt, Bill Wallace, Mike Bosma, Fred Jacobs and Louis Wierenga Jr. “We felt it was time for us to step forward and do what is right for the district, and right now that is the supporting the millage through our “Say, ‘Yes,’ to the Future” campaign,” said Kolanowski. “I applaud the Hastings Board of Education for having the courage to bring forward this opportunity to increase its revenues,” said Carlson. The campaign is still in the planning stages but is expected to include meetings and a rally prior to the election in May. Anyone interested in volunteering or who would like more information about Citizens for Education and its “Say, ‘Yes,’ to the Future” campaign may visit www.sayyestothefuture.com. Gun Lake residents ask for more marine patrols from sheriff’s dept. by Fran Faverman Staff Writer Among the items drawing discussion at the Yankee Springs Township Board of Trustees meeting Feb. 9 was an informal request from Jim Riehl, president of the Gun Lake Protective Association, seeking the township’s assistance in getting additional marine patrols on the lake this coming summer. Township Supervisor Al McCrumb said Riehl wants the township to enter into a contract with the Barry County Sheriff’s Department for the additional patrols because the association, which is a private, nonprofit entity, cannot enter into a contract with the department, a public, taxpayer-funded agency. The GLPA would pay the costs of the patrols; the township would have no liability for the proposed contract. Riehl was not present at the meeting due to a scheduling conflict. Vivian Connor, a resident on Blue Lagoon, questioned the need for more patrols on Gun Lake and why the lake association is involved. Trustee Al Schwennesen wanted to know if the sheriff’s department is planning to reduce patrols on the lake because of budget issues. A copy of a report written by Sgt. Julie Jones, commanding officer of the Barry County Marine Patrol Division, estimated the costs per hour at $27.50; included are wages, workers’ compensation, fringe benefits, Social Security and Medicare deductions, administrative expenses and patrol vehicle costs. The department’s liability insurance would provide coverage for the patrols. Clerk Janice Lippert said the proposal will be on the agenda for the March 8 meeting. In other business, while signs have been added at the intersection of Patterson and Bowens Mill roads, the board is also considering adding a light at the intersection to help alert motorists. A preliminary estimate of about $800 from Great Lakes Energy was deemed too vague; the board directed that a formal proposal for the installation of a sodium-vapor light be sought. McCrumb said he had received a proposal from a company offering to buy the rights to locate cellular antennas on the township water tower for $126,000. Any additional locators on the tower would be negotiated with the company; the township would have no further interest in collocators. Board members, mindful of the $18,000 a year in income received from collocators, decided the proposal did not make financial sense for the township and took no action. He closed his report, saying that the township had not received any applications for an opening for an alternate on the board of review; the deadline has been extended, and he urged interested parties to apply quickly by letter to the township offices at 284 N. Briggs Road. Dave Middleton, director of Thornapple Township Emergency Services, reported that his department had responded to 28 fires, 18 combined fire and EMS incidents, and 171 requests for medical services in the township in 2011. He noted that the department continues to be very busy providing services to the four communities it serves. Among the concerns to be negotiated in the contract for services for 2012-13 is the stationing of an ambulance on weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day at the Payne Lake Road fire station. Craig Stolsonburg, chair of the Barry County Board of Commissioners and commissioner for Yankee Springs, said plans were proceeding to move the circuit court from the county courthouse building to the adjacent courts and law building. The circuit court room would be left as is and possibly used by the commissioners as their meeting chamber. He said the revised farmland preservation ordinance had included an open-space preservation provision; he said he is opposed to the inclusion because he believes open-space provisions do not belong in a farmland preser- vation ordinance. He would support a separate open-space ordinance. Lippert reported that preparations for the Feb. 28 election were continuing. The township has purchased an electronic poll book; voters will be able to swipe their driver’s licenses or state ID cards to comply with the identification requirement. The board approved the purchase of two new printers for precincts 1 and 2 at a cost of $500. Treasurer John Jerkatis reported that the general fund currently stands at $838,000; the fire equipment purchase fund stands at $575,000. Budget workshops are being held to prepare the budget for the fiscal year, which begins July 1. Deputy Supervisor Alice Jansma reported that she and Greg and Ginnie Purcell will be meeting with Norman Taylor, superintendent of the Wayland Union School District, to try to work out a solution to allow district students who are residents of Yankee Springs Township to be able to use the Henika Library in Wayland. Robert Lippert, township zoning administrator, reported that the planning commission was going to reconsider the signage ordinance, and members of the commission has attended a Michigan Townships Association workshop on the new technology applied to signs. Although not discussed at the meeting, the board approved the minutes of two special meetings held with Brad Lamberg, managing director of the Barry County Road Commission. A concern of the township board is the condition of some of the roads within subdivisions of Yankee Springs. He stressed the need for decisions about road repairs since materials need to be ordered in March and April. Robert Lippert said property owners will be notified by mail of meetings regarding their roads. The next meeting of the board of trustees will be Thursday, March 8, at 7 p.m. at the township hall, 284 N. Briggs Road. 06773534 by David DeDecker Staff Writer Friday morning in Barry County Circuit Court, a representative from the Michigan Attorney General’s office stepped in to take over the criminal cases involving Michael Terpening. Judge Amy McDowell said the Barry County Prosecutor’s office disqualified itself from the cases, having shown cause not to have further involvement with the case. Terpening, the former director of a Bellevue-based animal rescue and youth home, is charged with multiple counts of criminal sexual conduct and insurance fraud. Banner news staff submitted a Freedom of Information Act request to the Barry County Prosecutor’s office into matters concerning the disqualifying of its office from the Michael Terpening cases. The Banner received a copy of a petition for appointment of special prosecuting attorney. Prosecutor Tom Evans, who submitted the petition, requested a special prosecutor in the three cases in which Terpening is charged with two counts of criminal sexual conduct, first degree; two counts of CSC, second degree; three counts of CSC, third degree; five counts of CSC; fourth degree; three counts of aggravated indecent exposure; and one count of insurance fraud. Item four of the petition reads, “It appears that the defense in the above referenced matters will admit witness(es) to testify that the prosecuting attorney, chief assistant prosecuting attorney and an assistant prosecuting attorney have attempted to improperly influence a witness or witnesses into giving false testimony. Such claims are false. The members of the office of prosecuting attorney are prepared to rebut these claims in court and to submit to polygraph testing if requested. Michigan Rule of Professional Conduct 3.6(a) generally precludes a lawyer from advocation in a trial in which the lawyer is likely to be a necessary witness.” In Barry County Circuit Court Feb. 10, Michigan Assistant Attorney General Donna Pendergast told McDowell, “It has been brought to our attention there are circum- stances that, at this point in time, appear to show some sort of conflict of interest for the Barry County Prosecutor’s office to carry on in this matter. The attorney general has agreed to substitute on this matter, with the understanding that we obviously will need sufficient time to bring ourselves up to speed.” Terpening’s defense attorney, Thomas Schaeffer, who was scheduled to make several motions in the case, said he was caught unaware of the action. “This procedure this morning was a surprise to me,” Schaeffer told the court. “I did not receive the petition as alleged in the motion to adjourn ... the prosecutor had filed a motion for a special prosecutor. To date, I have not received a copy of that ... I was informed this morning around 8:15.” McDowell clarified that because of the disqualification, the assistant attorney general would be taking all files for the Terpening cases. “There will be no further involvement by the prosecutor’s office,” said McDowell. Pendergast and Schaeffer then approached the bench to discuss a timeframe for future motions and reschedule a two-week trial for Terpening. After a brief discussion, the attorneys stepped back and Pendergast asked to add four people to a list of witnesses with whom Terpening is not to make contact. Schaeffer asked the request be put in writing in order to investigate and interview the four people. “I don’t know who these people are in relation to him [Terpening], because I haven’t seen a motion,” said Schaeffer. “All I am asking is if they want the four added, put it in a written motion and give me a chance to respond.” The court recessed to arrange new court dates. Motions were rescheduled to May 4 and the two-week trial was rescheduled to begin June 11. After speaking to both parties, McDowell ruled that Terpening is not to contact the four new (non-attorney) witnesses, although Schaeffer and his investigators may make contact. County board readies for land preservation discussion by Doug VanderLaan Editor After putting its stamp of approval on items recommended for passage at last week’s committee of the whole meeting, the Barry County Board of Commissioners at its regular meeting Tuesday began lining up how to address a pending pesky issue with which the Commission has wrestled for many months. “I have been wracking my brain trying to figure out how the wheels came off on this thing,” said Commissioner Ben Geiger regarding a discussion at last week’s meeting of proposed revisions to the Farmland Preservation Ordinance of 2002. “We never got to debate drafting this [revised] ordinance. We are debating an ordinance we did not ask for.” Key to the revisions proposed by the Barry County Agricultural Preservation Board is an expansion of the original 2002 ordinance to now include open space preservation guidelines and rules. Some commissioners, however, expressed their interest last week in a separate open space preservation ordinance with its own, specific zoning and planning tools. On the second of two votes last week, the commission opted by a 4-2 margin last to keep farmland and open space preservation issues combined in one ordinance, and Commission Chair Craig Stolsonburg committed to holding a future meeting dedicated to that issue alone. “I haven’t decided on a date,” said Stolsonburg Tuesday. “I’m playing around with the idea of having a neutral expert talk to us first and then have a big meeting. In my view, everybody is confused on the differences between open space and farmland and whether they should be together or separate. “I think we need to decide on that first before we give direction to the [Barry County] Agricultural Preservation Board.” Commissioner Dan Parker added his assent and suggested Lynn Harvey, an associate director of operations for Michigan State University Extension who was instrumental many years ago in helping draft a future plan- ning guide for the county, as a resource. “This needs to be decided before December 31,” said Geiger, noting the upcoming changes to take place with redistricting and the November election. “We need to talk more about issues before we talk about the technicalities of the ordinance. We can’t leave the new board with the same mess we’re dealing with now.” In other action Tuesday, the board: • Approved the appointment of Jim Carr to a one-year term on the Barry County Tax Allocation Board. • Approved two planning and zoning recommendations: a rezoning map change transferring a portion of land in Orangeville Township from residential lake zoning to mixed use to correct an inappropriate zoning classification, and the transfer of property in Johnstown and Baltimore townships owned by Frederic and Mark Halbert in the Farmland and Open Space Preservation Program, more commonly known as a PA 116 request. • Approved an update of safety and health guidelines to bring them into compliance with Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration directives. • Approved a hazard communication program for Charlton Park, also in accordance with MIOSHA directives. • Heard an announcement from Kermit Jon Smelker of Freeport stating his intention to run as a candidate for the board of commissioners in the 4th District. • Received a presentation from Jean Lamoreaux, event coordinator for the village of Middleville, in which she updated the board on the Graham Woodhouse Intergovernmental Effort Award, presented to Barry County for its cooperation with other local units of government in advancing the Southwest Michigan Non-Motorized Transportation Plan and Map. Through Lamoreaux’s lobbying efforts and the assistance from her team, the Paul Henry Thornapple Trail is now prominently noted in the Southwest Michigan Road and Trail Bicycle Guide. Call anytime to place your ad in the Hastings Banner 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 16, 2012 — Page 3 Local contractor removing trees from city parks Ash trees throughout the 55-acre Tyden Park are being removed, including a few near the entrance. It’s a win-win situation, according to City of Hastings Director of Public Services Tim Girrbach — the local contractor cuts down the trees keeps some of the wood for his own purposes and gives the rest to local churches for distribution to those in need, and the city gets rid of diseased and dead trees at no cost. Trees, primarily ash trees that fell victim to emerald ash borers, were marked for removal last year by the city in Tyden, Bob King and Fish Hatchery parks. “Larry Bennett offered to take down the trees in the park, and do the clean-up at no charge to the city, in exchange for the wood,” said Girrbach. “It has been a tremendous help and benefit to the city and the community as a whole for him to do that for us.” Girrbach said that with the decrease in revenues, the city would have had to wait for funds to become available to remove the dead trees from the city parks. He said so far, Bennett has removed 42 trees from Tyden Park, approximately a dozen in Fish Hatchery Park and 10 in Bob King Park. “We’ll probably do some replanting in the park but we will probably have to do it slowly as funds become available,” said Girrbach. He added that the program for planting trees in the city right of way, which is funded by a grants, now plants a variety of trees to discourage the spread of disease. For the past three years, Hastings has been replacing dead or blighted trees in the right of way with littleleaf Lindens, red spine pear, honey locust and red sunset maples. At right: Emerald ash borer larvae feed beneath the bark of the tree. In the process, they destroy the tissues that conduct water and nutrients to the tree, leaving behind trails of their demise. See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits 77565913 More than 42 trees, like these dying ash trees, have been or will be cut down at Tyden Park in Hastings. While some trees have yet to bear evidence of their demise, others like this ash tree in Tyden Park, show the damage wrought by emerald ash borers. �Page 4 — Thursday, February 16, 2012 — The Hastings Banner see? Did you On tap Funding for Michigan roads draws attention Hearts and presidential portraits may be a sign of February across the country, but sap buckets can be added to the list of February icons in this area. Maple syrup producers may follow different philosophies or processes. Some favor old-fashioned buckets and others use modern tubing. And each has a different rationale for when to start tapping. But the signs of tapping generally appear in February, as they did in this photo, taken on State Road west of Hastings. Gov. Rick Snyder has been talking about increased funding for the state’s transportation system. His proposal, if passed, would increase vehicle registration fees by $120, or $10 per month, along with a nine-cent per gallon increase in the gas tax. According to Snyder, the state is suffering from a $1.4 billion shortfall in transportation funding. Snyder also discussed the formula used by the state in determining how transportation funds are allocated to various governments responsible for roads and bridges. Presently, the state keeps 39.1 percent, passing on 39.1 percent to the county road commissions and 21.8 percent to cities and villages. Snyder suggested a new way of funding based on traffic, so roads and bridges that get the most traffic would get the additional funding. Snyder is concerned that roads impacting Michigan’s economic growth should get the higher priority, which makes sense. Most would agree that the high traffic roadways and interstates are vital to the state’s solvency. But at the same time, due to declining revenues in recent years, we need to find a more equitable way to fund the maintenance of our state’s roadways. Given the economic struggles of the state’s taxpayers, I don’t agree that additional tax on gasoline is a good idea. With gas prices averaging between $3.15 and $3.50 per gallon, adding an additional nine-cent per-gallon tax would add an unnecessary hardship on most working families. And even though the $10 per month in additional registration fees doesn’t sound like much, there are better ways to fund the aging road system. Snyder also suggested a proposal to add 1 percent to our current 6 percent sales tax. Another of his proposals — which would require a referendum vote — is to base the fuel tax on the cost wholesale price distributors pay, but Snyder concluded that there would have to be controls put on the tax to guard against price spikes. I think a better way to fund our transportation system would be to add the sales tax to all online purchases. The National Conference of State Legislatures estimates that uncollected sales taxes from online purchases cost states $23 billion. More than a dozen states have already enacted legislation to force online retailers to collect the taxes, and similar legislation is pending in 10 other states. Taxing online purchases would do two things. One, it would allow the state to gain additional income to cover the short- We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. We’ll select one photograph for publication each week. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Do you know? Cold draft Do you recognize the man in this photograph, which was by Barth Studio, Hastings? The photo was taken in the winter, and the horse was led with a rope to the galvanized steel bucket, but the picture has few other clues. Did this man receive some special honor as a farmer? Was he known for his work with draft horses? Where was the farm? What can you tell us about this photo? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that either were unused or have been separated from the published clipping. These photos have no dates, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information. Sometimes just a name leads to connecting the photo with the original clipping. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@j-adgraphics.com, or call 269-9459554. Last week’s photo was identified by readers who recognized the young woman in the photo as Myrtle M. Wilson, who taught in Barry County schools for 42 years. She is pictured with her parents Reuben and Addie (Barnum) Wilson in their home at 221 Apple St., Hastings, which is now the office of Dr. Steven Challa, podiatrist. This identity of the Wilsons led to a story in the Jan. 9, 1947, Hastings Banner of the couple recently marking 63 years of marriage, which began Dec. 8, 1883, in Woodland. Reuben died in October 1947 at age 91; Addie survived him by five years, passing away in 1952 at age 83. The 1947 article said that as a hobby, Mrs. Wilson pieced quilts by hand and kept Have you What do you met? Age: 50-ish. Favorite movie: I don’t have a favorite m ovie, song or book. They all take me on a jo urney or transport me to someplace else, wh think? Last week’s question: The Michigan Legislature is struggling to find revenue for road repair and improvements. Though it will still require a referendum vote, the legislature is proposing a 1 percent sales tax increase to be dedicated to road improvements. Would you vote for a 1 percent sales tax to be used exclusively for roads? 78% 22% en nothing else can ... I love the choir and ba nd [rooms] to be close [down the hall]. The person you’d most like to meet: Ch ancellor [Angela] Merkel of Germany. I thin k they’re doing a better job with their educational system, more in tune with assisting students with their abilities and skills.” The one thing you would change if you were president: Our educational system. Best advice ever received: “Nothing eve r gets done by itself. Here’s the pitchfork, ge t to work.” I’m not sure, but I think that’s fr om my dad. Best thing about Barry County: The pe ople. We have awesome people in Barry Co unty who are generous and give of their time , resources and talents. Ed Domke has been an instructor with the Hastings Area School System for more than 20 years. He is the computer-aided drafting instructor, agri-science teacher, FFA adv isor, as well as the technical education director for Hastings Schools. The director position administrates funding for the school’s te chnical programs and funding from the federal and state government for the most up-to -date vocational software. Domke is also instrumental in starting the new welding program based at Hastings Hi gh School in collaboration with Kellogg Co mmunity College and Barry ISD. Do MEAP scores reflect disctricts? For this week: Wednesday, Michigan Educational Assessment Program scores were released for every Michigan school district. Because the state raised minimum passing scores, most schools expect results to be down dramatically. Do MEAP scores accurately reflect the education quality of your local school? Yes No Yes No The Hastings q q Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Ed Domke Fred Jacobs, vice president, J-Ad Graphics Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. And don’t forget to leave an opinion or comment. a diary that dated back to 1899. Mr. Wilson, it said, still maintained a fine garden, and in later years had taken up the hobby of making toy furniture, gift boxes and other items. Myrtle, a twin, was the youngest of the Wilson’s 11 children and was the last survivor of her immediate family when she died in May 2001. A couple of Banner readers remembered that Myrtle enjoyed taking photographs, so perhaps the book in her lap is a photo album. Mixing pitchforks and computers ages necessary to fix our infrastructure; and, two, it would make online sales companies more competitive with brick-andmortar businesses. It’s not fair that companies without a physical presence in our state — maybe not even in our country — have a competitive advantage over retailers maintaining businesses with employees on site. I’m not sure what impact the additional tax would generate, but I believe it would go a long way in solving our immediate crisis. As part of the change to our transportation funding, Snyder announced his proposal for counties across the state to take over the responsibility of our road systems by doing away with county road commissions. Snyder called county road commissions — which operate independent of county governments — a relic. “They’ve provided a great function, but the world has changed,” said Snyder. “Michigan has too many independent road agencies (617) and can no longer afford to spread limited funding so thinly across so many small agencies.” Yet, I would argue that road commissions have a better understanding of the local needs and are better equipped than county commissioners to oversee our roadways. Snyder went on to outline some criteria to better measure the state’s agencies, such as asset management, competitive bidding and consolidation of services, as part of his dashboard to measure performance. There’s nothing wrong with the state and county governments looking into the way road commissions operate, with the understanding that a new set of eyes can bring awareness to the process. Requiring state and county agencies to become better managers is in the best interest of all taxpayers. Yet, moving the responsibility to county commissions would add another job about which they have little or no knowledge. Achieving a positive outcome would be doubtful. Throughout state and local government at all levels, looking for operational best practices is in everyone’s best interest, but in the end, the only way to solve Michigan’s financial difficulties will be to get our economic engines fired up and operating at peak capacity once again. We’re on the road to recovery – but success will only come with patience and cooperation at all levels of government. Brett Bremer Casey Cheney Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Helen Mudry • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 16, 2012 — Page 5 IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV STATE NEWS ROUNDUP Air Guard official has major issues with Sewer authority decision should be reversed proposed cuts To the editor: I don’t personally know Barry Township Supervisor Wesley Kahler or Trustee Roger Turner. But those who do described them both as dedicated public servants. These are honorable men who have served the people they were elected to represent very well over a long period of time. I know even less about the politics of the Southwest Barry County Sewer and Water Authority and its governing board. But I do know that the action taken by several members of this board at its last meeting appears to a naive observer like me to be not only ill conceived, but unexplainably out of character. Extending sewer service to the residents of Fail Lake was a goal worthy of support. The protection of this environmentally sensitive and critical area is in everyone’s best interests. The good people who were elected to represent the residents of Barry Township recognized this need. Unfortunately, they badly overestimated future growth projections and now have a system that is not producing enough revenue to make annual bond payments. Dollars are generated by the authority, which charges fees for processing septage. Lots of dollars. And so, with a little help from a sympathic friend, the two Barry Township board members used the two votes they temporarily held and adopted a motion to reserve $90,000 of the authority’s money over the next six years. I don’t understand how any of those who supported this motion reached the conclusion that those funds belonged only to the resi- dents of Barry Township when, in fact, they obviously belong to the resident users of all four townships. And, I really don’t get why two of our most trusted officials would deliberately tarnish their otherwise exemplary reputations by so obviously stacking the deck. And I really don’t get why Turner then publicly stated that his fellow colleagues on the Prairieville, Johnstown and Hope township boards should rightly be “mad as hell” about the action he orchestrated. And, I don’t know why he failed to include all of us who pay our usage fees every three months. Those fees are paid by us. And, those funds earned by charging septage processing fees belong to all of us too. They are not exclusively his dollars. Turner should include us in the “mad as hell” category, too. I also don’t know about how sewer authority dollars can legally be used. Could they be loaned to the residents of Barry Township to be repaid at low cost or not cost over an extended period of time! Was an alternative such as this ever considered? Regardless of one’s political persuasion, isn’t a repayable “bail out” in some situations (and this appears to be one of them) a fiscally responsible option that could be offered to our Barry Township friends and neighbors? I do know this. Motions can be undone. I trust Kahler and Turner will rethink this matter and put a corrective motion on the table at the next sewer authority meeting. It’s the right thing to do. And these are two individuals who are well known in this community for doing the right thing. Tom Domeier Delton GOP, Tea Party inadvertently give-up name of the game To the editor: Throughout the three years, that the President’s held office, we’ve heard (countless) Tea Party members and GOP officeholders claim the only goal they’d work toward is Obama’s defeat. They’ve worked hard to delay or derail every effort he’s made to help the poor, the homeless, the middle class, the auto and manufacturing industries; while stopping or hindering every effort to rein in the (mostly big-shot Republican) thieves in banking, investment, and defense industries who’ve brought us to the mess we’re in today. Both remaining front-runners in the GOP primary race have proven they’ll tell any lie, take money from any source, know little (or nothing) about military and/or foreign policy, and less about American (and world) history. Some of their gaffes would be hilarious if we weren’t so deeply involved with an open war in Afghanistan, and who knows how many clandestine wars – Iran, Somalia, Yemen to name but three. (Our current President has killed or captured more top al Queda and Taliban leaders in three years than Bush, Cheny and Rumsfeld in eight.) The funniest was Rick Perry who (boldly) opened his mouth then withdrew ignominiously, and with a whimper, from an undisclosed location in the state of fools. Nearly as pathetic in the spotlight was Congresswoman Bachman confusing John Quincy Adams (our sixth President) with his father, John Adams (our second), and placing him in a debate during the constitutional convention. I’d bet she doesn’t even know John Q was an advocate of a strong national government. Bachman’s bad moment came about the same time John McCain’s running mate of 2008 claimed (publicly), that Paul Revere rode to warn the British not to march on Lexington and Concord “because the patriots knew they were coming,” and would slaughter them. Now this may seem funny, but it’s definite- ly not humorous. These are people who claim to have “the right stuff” to lead us in what could be, may be, and most likely is, the most dangerous period in our history. Seven billion people inhabit this earth. About six billion of them detest us, and everything we stand for. The only Republican candidate who’s made any sense at all is Ron Paul in reference to parts of our foreign policy. But if he thinks we can survive alone in a world of jackals, he’s totally unfit for modern times. Adding to the clamorous uproar in the GOP are a large mass of conservative religious crackpots who’d like nothing better than to tell you exactly how to run every aspect of your life from bedroom, to doctor’s office, to how you spend the sabbath. These people claim God’s name appears in every article of the constitution, though in fact the word “God” doesn’t appear one time in the document. Religion itself, in fact, is addressed only twice, and then in a negative sense: ‘There shall be no religious test to hold public office;’ and, ‘There shall be no state religion.’ Among these bird-brains are a claque who pocket soldier’s funerals with signs and posters claiming these men and women died – no, that God killed them, because the nation doesn’t imprison or kill gays, lesbians, others they deem ‘ungodly.’ The rest of them are at least as unlikeable for myriad reasons. Too often in the past few months I’ve heard or read Republican leaders in the House of Representatives and Senate, as well as representatives of the candidates, and the GOP candidates themselves, claim, “our party’s base is the ‘old South.’” That, my friends and neighbors, is as much as to say their base lies in the old paranoid, xenophobic, racist, and secessionist places whose butts we kicked 147 years ago. Some folks never grow, never learn. Larry Hamp, Hastings Election year has strange effect To the editor: Are the American people stupid or is it that our elected leaders hope we are? Maybe we just don’t care and they are exploiting that. The reason I ask is because I just heard that there has been a surplus found at the state capital when last week the lawmakers were claiming a shortfall. What happened? Isn’t it funny... a surplus found, gas prices going down, employment going up, the wars ending. Can anyone say election year? If I could ask questions of our leaders, I would like to ask Mr. Obama, how can you justify to the American public spending a billion dollars to run for a $00,000 job? Does anyone have a visual concept of a billion dollars? Nobody I know. Mr. Snyder “how do you justify a new b ridge to Canada when you haven’t fixed the first one?” And if the new one does get built it will only affect Detroit not the rest of the state. But those questions are never asked, I don’t know why they should be but they are not. People seem to be more concerned about triv- ial matters and the lawmakers know it and are glad about it. Steve Toman, Nashville Prosecutor hasn’t been doing his job To the editor: Recently I read in the Banner how Prosecutor Evans has not been doing his job correctly. My guess is that he is so obsessed with the Mike Terpening case that he does not have time to anything else. It looks like he doesn’t have a case, he keeps digging to make up a case. It’s strange that he believed the boys when they said what he wanted to hear, but when one changed his story he is not credible. It would be to his credit to drop all charges. Betty Wilson, Assyria Last week, U.S. Air Force officials announced proposed force structure changes that would retire 286 aircraft and their accompanying missions over the next five years, including 227 in fiscal year 2013. A significant number of these retirements would include A-10s stationed at Selfridge and C27s from Battle Creek, wreaking havoc on a struggling Michigan economy, said Maj. Gen. Gregory Vadnais. To emphasize the critical importance of maintaining Air Guard strength, he and otheres will hold press conferences Friday, Feb. 17, at 10 a.m. in Battle Creek, and 1 p.m. Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Detroit. “I will not rest until Washington understands the reality of what is being proposed,” said Vadnais. “The Air National Guard runs missions much more efficiently than the active Air Force. The Air National Guard operates at less than two cents of every dollar of active component counterparts, the average reserve component member’s pay is a mere 28 percent of active duty members, and the National Guard and Reserve components are the literal foundation of our country’s militia.” During the press conferences, Gen. Vadnais will present materials and discussion aids that explain the realistic impact of the proposed changes. $430,000 from the Federal Voting Assistance Program to make improvements that will benefit those who vote absentee, especially military and overseas voters, Secretary of State Ruth Johnson announced Monday. The $431,514 Electronic Absentee Systems for Elections grant awarded to the state is for software development that will allow election officials to electronically create, process and track ballots for all absentee voters. It will also pay for communications to raise awareness of Michigan’s voter registration and absentee ballot options among military and overseas voters. Improvements are expected to be in place in time for November’s presidential election. The grant money will allow the Bureau of Elections to assist between 600 and 800 smaller jurisdictions in moving to an electronic absentee ballot tracking system, Johnson said. Those jurisdictions will be able to do away with time-consuming manual processes and enter absentee voter information directly into the state’s Qualified Voter File by computer, which previously was not an option. Voters registered in those jurisdictions will now be able to check the progress of their absentee ballot applications and the Bureau of Elections will receive absentee ballot data from all local election officials instantly and accurately. Michigan’s corporate tax rating upgraded to 7th in nation Michigan’s reinvention continues to gain momentum with an update from the Tax Foundation that improves the state’s corporate tax ranking in the State Business Tax Climate Index from 49th to 7th in the nation, Gov. Rick Snyder announced Monday at the Detroit Economic Club. The Tax Foundation, a nonpartisan tax research group based in Washington, D.C., also upgraded Michigan’s overall tax rank from 18th to 12th. “Once again, the nation is taking notice of the bold reforms that are driving Michigan forward,” Snyder said. “The bold reforms we made in 2011 dramatically improved the state’s tax ranking and are further proof that the best way to boost Michigan’s economy and improve the quality of life for all is to create an environment that encourages job growth and innovation.” The Tax Foundation’s State Business Tax Climate Index measures which states have the most neutral, simple and business-friendly tax structures. In its evaluation, the Tax Foundation said it is clear that these reforms are a “major improvement for Michigan’s business tax system.” Read the entire article, http://taxfoundation.org/blog/show/27965.html, on the Tax Foundation’s policy blog. State designates cattle testing areas in Northeast Lower DNR celebrates 125 Michigan Michigan Housing The Michigan Department of Agriculture Rural Development Wednesday years of conservation and announced the establishment of a potential Index shows high-risk area around three different Presque law enforcement Isle County deer taken during the 2011 hunt- increased momentum The Department of Natural Resources is ing season. The free-ranging white-tailed deer celebrating 125 years of law enforcement, marking the anniversary of the appointment of William Alden Smith as Michigan’s first game warden. “Conservation officers have a rich and proud heritage protecting Michigan’s natural resources,” said Gary Hagler, chief of the DNR’s Law Enforcement Division. “These men and women take great pride in their service to the people of Michigan. I am proud of every one of them.” Michigan’s conservation officers are fully empowered peace officers who not only enforce fish and game regulations, but are often support other law enforcement functions. Though the scope of their main mission has broadened widely since Smith’s appointment, conservation officers are often involved in everything from assisting at accident scenes to searching for lost children and performing rescues on the Great Lakes and inland waterways. The DNR Law Enforcement Division will sponsor a number of events commemorating the anniversary during 2012, including a service for fallen conservation officers – 12 of whom have been killed in the line of duty – on May 15 at the Ralph A. MacMullan conference center in Roscommon. The ceremony will be held during National Police Officer Memorial Week, which honors all fallen peace officers. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr. Grant expected to improve absentee voting process Michigan has received a grant of more than HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, Feb. 16 — Teens’ Pizza & Pages discuss Tomorrow Code by Brian Faulkner, 3:45 to 5 p.m.; Movie Memories celebrates the Oscars with “How Green Was My Valley,” 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 17 — preschool story time enjoys the stories of Frank Asch, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; house concert with Drew Nelson, 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 18 — “Fun with Chocolate” for kids, 10 a.m. to noon Monday, Feb. 20 — winter reading club for adults continues; library board of directors meet, 4 to 6 p.m.; computer class tackles “To Sell or Not To Sell,” 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 21 — toddler story time enjoys mice, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.; open chess club, 6 to 8 p.m. Call the library for more information about any of the above, 269-945-4263. were recently confirmed by the Michigan departments of Natural Resources and Community Health to be bovine tuberculosis positive. As a result, any cattle and bison farms within a 10-mile radius around where the deer were harvested must complete testing for bovine TB in the next six months. “The U.S. Department of Agriculture awarded Modified Accredited Advanced status to Presque Isle County in 2011 because the cattle industry has controlled the spread of disease by testing, using electronic ID and risk mitigation practices. These are all important components of keeping that status,” said MDARD’s State Veterinarian Dr. Steven Halstead. “By designating a potential highrisk area, we are saying we want to make sure, through testing, that the disease has not spread from deer to cattle.” MDARD will be contacting producers to schedule whole-herd bovine TB tests before calving starts or after calving is over, whichever time is least stressful for the animals. Two town hall meetings will take place to discuss the circle testing. A statewide survey of homebuilders and remodelers shows increased momentum for Michigan’s homebuilding industry. The Michigan Housing Index, covering the fourth quarter of 2011, showed a 30 percent improvement in current homebuilding and projected future activity as compared to the same period in 2010, according to a press release issued Monday. The same survey showed residential remodeling ahead of 2010 by 24 percent.. The latest Michigan Housing Index covers the time period of October through December 2011. Though trends have been encouraging for Michigan builders and remodelers in recent months, there is still considerable economic uncertainty that looms over a potential recovery for the housing industry. MAHB recently issued its annual forecast for building permits, which projects a slight downturn in the first half of 2012. The forecast does predict an up tick in the second half of the year with permits increasing by 3 percent overall, or roughly 8,200 new single-family building permits for the year. Award-winning program to be available at middle school Hastings Middle School is proud to announce the addition of award-winning program Study Island. Study Island offers subscription-based online products that provide instruction, practice, assessment and productivity tools for teachers and students. Each of Study Island’s products is specifically built from the requirements for a subject area in a grade level in a particular state, provides real-time reporting on student achievement and offers students immediate feedback and explanations, and when required, remediation content. A team of regular education and special education teachers have been working on scheduling and training of the Study Island program. Students will be introduced to it soon and then we will begin monitoring progress. Initially, students will be introduced to Study Island at school and be assigned a user name and password. A pre-test will be provided for each core area. After becoming familiar with the program, students will be able to access Study Island from any computer that has the capacity to access the Internet, whether at school, home, the library or elsewhere. Teachers can identify students’ needs and will create assignments specifically designed for the students. Progress will be monitored within the programs, and a variety of reports can be created for informing teachers and parents of student progress. Initially, Study Island will be used for remediation of students demonstrating that need. Hastings Middle School will be allowed to assign up to 125 student accounts per grade level throughout the school year. The program will also be a significant part of the summer school program. The program covers the four core areas: English language arts, math, science and social studies. Study Island was paid for out of At-Risk grant money and a cost of $10,000 for three years. Hastings Middle School will be able to use the current product through the 2013-14 school year. By engaging students and providing them with the tools they need to succeed, Study Island enables them to take control of their own learning, boost their confidence and keep them interested while creating a culture of academic success. Study Island was recognized as a classroom winner in the 2009 Annual Teachers’ Choice Awards from Learning Magazine, as well as being honored in 2010 by Tech & Learning magazine with an Award of Excellence. �Page 6 — Thursday, February 16, 2012 — The Hastings Banner See us for color copies, one-hour photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. Area Obituaries J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits Worship Together… Jeanne Eloise Crittenden Lucy Anne Jacoby HASTINGS, MI - Jeanne Eloise Crittenden, age 77, of Hastings passed away on February 10, 2012 at home after a prolonged illness. She was born September 17, 1934 in Denton, TX, daughter of Dr. H. B. and Eloise Masters. Much of her youth was spent traveling with her father throughout the United States, helping him develop and implement youth camps all around the country while working for the United Nations. Jeanne attended Battle Creek Central High School and graduated at the age of 16 to attend Michigan State University. Always an exceptional student, Jeanne spoke several languages, including French, Latin and five dialects of Chinese, while studying to be an interpreter. She left the university to care for her terminally ill mother. Jeanne’s hobbies included reading and doing crossword puzzles. With her husband, Bud, Jeanne enjoyed flying and together they shared the job of delivering Reminders weekly for many years. She enjoyed going to church and had a great time framing and matting pictures for craft shows with daughter, Julie. With daughter, Dianne, Jeanne spent many relaxing hours at Barns and Noble Book Store perusing books and music. She loved traveling with her companion, Ken Miller, to exotic places like Alaska and Niagara Falls and both shared time watching and rooting for the Detroit Tigers and her grandson, Cory, a freshman catcher at Aquinas College in Grand Rapids. She very much enjoyed reading and writing poetry. One of her poems has been enshrined in the Library of Congress. She also enjoyed spending time with her favorite pet, Little Kitty. Jeanne was preceded in death by her husband, Bud; her parents; and her older brother, Burt Masters. She is survived by her oldest daughter, Julie (Jon Gambee) Crittenden of Hastings; daughter, Dianne Crittenden of Hastings; sister, Susan (Larry) Phillips of Big Canoe, GA; grandson, Cory Bunge at Aquinas College and her very special friend, Kenneth Miller of Hastings. At her request, there will be no memorial service. Memorial contributions may be made to Barry Community Hospice, 450 Meadow Run Dr., Hastings, MI 49058 or Barry County Animal Shelter, 540 N. Industrial Park Dr., Hastings, MI 49058. Arrangements are by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc. please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guestbook or to leave a memory or message to the family. HASTINGS, MI - Lucy Anne Jacoby, age 98, of Hastings, passed away on Thursday, February 9, 2012 at Carveth Village in Middleville. She was born October 24, 1913 in Putney, GA, the daughter of George Christian and Beatrice Cenci (George) Schempp. Lucy graduated from Ithaca, New York Public School and then Cornell University in 1925, she then received a Master’s degree from Western Michigan University in 1970. Lucy was married to Ernest H. Jacoby on July 5, 1941 at Sage Chapel Cornell University in New York. Lucy taught grade school at Middleville, Delton and Maple Valley in Nashville. She retired in June of 1981 after 40 years of teaching in public schools. During WWII Lucy packed artillery shells for Allied Forces at Winchester Arms in New Haven, CT. She was a member of Daughters of the American Revolution (DeGarmo), Pilgrims Daughters of American Colonist, Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Hastings, St. Andrews & Mathias Anglican Church of Middleville. Lucy’s interest were genealogy, flowers, gardening, knitting, crocheting, dancing to big band music, and traveling. She enjoyed wintering in Florida and the summers in Michigan, and keeping up with many of her former students and peers. Lucy was preceded in death by her husband, Ernest in 2003; her parents; two brothers, John Schempp and George Schempp; and a sister, Beatrice (Schempp) Reddick. Lucy is survived by her children, Lucerne Anne (Ken) Simeone of Port Charlotte, FL; Jenneane Helen (Bruce) Pelon of Clearwater FL; Ernest Christian (Joy) Jacoby of Port Orange, FL; Stephen Alfred Jacoby of Coconut Creek, FL; five grandchildren, Scott (Greta) Cook, Brian Cook of Florida, Elizabeth Cook of Ionia, Jill (David) Daniels of Hastings, Holly (Peter) Martin of Hudsonville; six great grandchildren, Brandon and Justin Daniels, Luke, Abby and Kelsey Martin and Ernest Cook. Memorial contributions may be made to Barry Community Hospice, 450 Meadow Run Dr., Hastings, MI 49058 or a charity of ones choice in memory of Lucy. A memorial service will be scheduled at a later date. Interment will take place at Cedar Creek Cemetery in Hope Township Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guestbook or leave a memory or message to the family. Donald L. Schrader 77565803 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. ORANGEVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH 6921 Marsh Rd., 2 miles south of Gun Lake, Plainwell. Phone 269664-4377. OrangevilleBaptist. org. Pastors Dan Bowman and Adam Parmenter. Sunday - 9:45 a.m. Adult Classes Offered: 1) Book of James; 2) Book of Jude; 3) Young Adult Class. Children, teen and adult Sunday School classes; 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Worship; 5:30 p.m. Junior and Senior High Word of Life Clubs. Tuesday - 9 a.m. Men’s Prayer and Bible Study. Wednesday - 6:30 p.m. Pre-school through 6th grade Word of Life Gophers & Olympians. Prayer & Bible Study 7 p.m. 6 p.m. Teen Word of Life. Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University - 13 weeks - JanuaryMarch. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Paul Osborn, Minister of Music; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service, Jr. & Sr. High Groups. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. HASTINGS SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH 904 Terry Lane, Hastings (or on the corner of Starr School Road and Terry Lane.) Phone: (269) 9452170. Pastor Michael Wise. Sabbath www.hastingssda.com (Saturday) School 9:30 a.m.; worship service 10:50 a.m. Mid-week meetings informal study and prayer service, Wednesdays 7 p.m. Youth ministry clubs, Adventurers for preschool to 4th grade students and Pathfinders for 5th grade students through high school, meet on the first and third Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. and first and third Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. respectively. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. CHURCH OF THE LIVING GOD A full gospel church. 1240 W. State Rd., Hastings. Pastor Doug Davis. 269-948-9740. Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study 6 p.m. Sunday School and Youth Group for all ages. Come and worship the Lord with us! . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Phone 269-721-8077. Minister Ryan Wieland 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Praise Worship Service; Noon alternate weekends Youth Group Tuesday. Covenant Prayer Group, Wednes-day 6:30 p.m., Choir Practice. Thursday 7 p.m. Praise Band Practice. 2nd and 4th Thursdays at 7 p.m. Christ’s Quilters. Friday 6:30 p.m., CPRChrist’s Plan for Recovery (meal served). For more information small groups, special evnts or if you have a prayer requst, call the church office and see postings on WEB site: www.countrychapel.umc.org. SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North Amer-ica and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Cronk cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 2 p.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-797-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nash-ville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 or -517-852-1806. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS REFORMED CHURCH “A Historic Reformed Commun-ity.” Sunday morning services begin at 10 a.m. Meeting at the Barry County Commission on Aging building, 320 W. Woodlawn Ave., Hastings. Pastor: Peter Adams. 616-690-8609 padams@juno.com. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 9:15 Contemporary Worship, 10:30 a.m. Refreshments, 11 a.m. Traditional Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Pastor of Senior Adults and Visitation, Don Brail. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. for children, youths and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Senior High Youth Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Mid-Week: 6:30-7:45 p.m. Pioneer Clubs, age 4th to 5th grade, and Junior High Youth Group, 6th-8th grade. Thursday: 10 a.m. Senior Adult Discussion and 11:30 a.m., lunch at Wendy’s. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Sunday, Feb. 19 - Worship at 8 & 10:45 a.m. 9:30 a.m. Sunday School. Holy Communion Every Sunday! Men’s AA @ 7:00. Feb. 20 Adventurers Faith Bible Study @ 7:00. Feb. 21 - Congregation Council @ 7:00. Feb. 22 Wordwatchers Bible Study @ 10 a.m.; Vision Team Book Review @ 7:00. Feb. 23 - Clapper Kids Bell Choir @ 3:45. Feb. 24 - CPR/First Aid 6:30 to 9:00. Feb. 25 - CPR/First Aid 8:30 to 12:00. 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 9452645, fax 269-945-2698. Pastor Amy Luckey http://www.discovergrace. org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 9 a.m. Worship Service - Traditional; 10 a.m. Sunday School for All Ages; 11 a.m. Worship Service Contemporary; 6 p.m. Youth Group. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blog spot.com. Thursday - 9 a.m. Men’s Bible Study; 11:30 Women’s Brown Bag Bible Study; 6:30 p.m. Choir Rehearsal. Friday - 9 a.m. Pickleball; 6 p.m. Menders. Saturday - 8:30 a.m. Men’s Breakfast; 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday - 3 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Fiberglass Products Lauer Family Funeral Homes 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 Vernie Lee Smethers Byrle L. Hudson MONROE, MI - Byrle L. Hudson, age 93, of Monroe, died Thursday, February 8, 2012 at Mercy-Memorial Hospital. Funeral services were held Saturday, February 11, 2012 from the Allore ChapelMartenson Family of Funeral Homes, Monroe. Born July 28, 1918 in Hastings, Byrle was the daughter of Lyle and Mabel (Carter) Brady. She married William E. Hudson on November 12, 1938. A dedicated homemaker, Byrle also had been a secretary for Monroe Catholic Central High School at one time. Her hobbies included reading, but her greatest joy was her grandchildren. Byrle leaves to cherish her memory her children, Lorraine Hudson of Monroe, Larry (Karen) Hudson of Monroe, James (Drusilla) Hudson of Monroe, Janet Weaver of Carmel, IN and Thomas (Paula) Hudson of Monroe. She will also be missed by 13 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren and two great great grandchildren. Sadly Byrle was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers and three sisters. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society-Relay for Life or The Salvation Army of Monroe County. For more information or to leave an online condolence, please visit our website at www.allore.com . Vernie Lee Smethers lost his battle with cancer Monday, Feb. 6, 2012. He was born March 11, 1958. He leaves behind the love of his life, Jennifer Reid of Nashville; son, Vernie Lee Smethers Jr. of Nashville; sisters, Melony Anne Smethers of Texas and Paula Jo McCarthy of Texas; brother, Billy Don (Roxanne) Smethers of Texas; and many nieces and nephews. He enjoyed woodworking, leather crafting, carpentry, and he was a very hard working and loving friend. He will be greatly missed. LAKE ODESSA, MI Donald L. Schrader, age 74, of Lake Odessa, passed away Saturday, February 11, 2012 at his residence. He was born May 28, 1937 in Muskegon Heights, Michigan the son of Luther and Florence (Smith) Schrader. He was married to Marion Gibson in December 1962 in Sparta. In 1964 they moved to Lake Odessa where they have resided ever since. Don was preceded in death by his parents; son, Todd; sister, Barbara. Surviving is his loving wife of 49 years, Marion; children, Tracie (Brian) Fisher, Trevor (Ramell) Schrader, Troy Schrader, Roxanne (Bobby) Beckwith and Robin Ramberg; 11 grandchildren and one great granddaughter. And his constant companion Bubba. Don was employed for over 20 years in management with Hastings Manufacturing. He had a great love for his family and his dogs, very much enjoyed spending time with family and friends, helped anyone he could whenever he could, was an avid outdoorsman enjoying hunting and fishing, told great stories and jokes that were always sure to bring a smile or belly laugh to his listeners. When talking of family and friends there was no mistaking the size of his heart or the caring within. At Don’s request, no services will be held. If you wish to make a contribution, the family request they be made to Spectrum Health Hospice and Paliative Care / MC164 / 4500 Breton Road SE / Grand Rapids, MI 49508. To place a memory of Don, please visit www.koopsfc.com. Arrangements entrusted to Koops Funeral Chapel Lake Odessa. Glenn O. Thornburgh HASTINGS, MI - Glenn O. Thornburgh of Hastings passed away on Saturday, February 11, 2012 at the age of 81. He was born on February 26, 1930 in Three Rivers to Roy L. and Elva E. (Youngman) Thornburgh. He graduated from Schoolcraft High School and immediately went into the Army where he served in Labrador during the Korean Conflict. After leaving the service, he spent several years working at a paper mill in Three Rivers. He then met and married Barbara Anne Cairns in 1957 and began a lifelong career with General Motors where he worked at the Kalamazoo Plant. As a stopping point to and from work he became well known at Arlene’s Truck Stop. He loved driving his car and playing Uno. He was a member of Quimby Church where he was very active and his faith was a very important part of his life. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Barbara; children, Mary Ellen Guy of Hastings, Robert Glenn (Angela) Thornburgh of Hastings and Lisa Marie (Joe) Hunter of Senica, SC; grandchildren, Adam Guy, Sarah and Ryan Thornburgh, Joseph “Seph” and Morgan Hunter; sister, Marian Erwin of Colorado Springs, CO, brother, Morse Thornburgh of Marcellus, MI; several nieces and nephews. Glenn is preceded in death by his parents, sisters, Grace Westfall, Violet Peake, Vivian Nussell and Ruth Northrup. Glenn’s family will receive friends on Thursday February 16 from 6 until 8 p.m. at Lauer Family Funeral Homes – Wren Chapel, 1401 N. Broadway in Hastings. Funeral services will be held on Friday, February 17, 2012 at the funeral home at 2 p.m. with Rev. Bryce Feighner officiating. According to his wishes, cremation will follow. For those who wish, the family would appreciate contributions to Quimby Church Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058 or the charity of your choice. Please share a memory with Glenn's family at www.lauerfh.com. FAMILY FUNERAL HOMES �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 16, 2012 — Page 7 COA to host fiddlers Newborn Babies jamboree Feb. 25 The floor will be open for round, square and couples dancing. The Commission on Aging will be offering a hearty dinner of chicken and biscuit casserole, fruited gelatin, cupcakes and beverages. Dinner will be available from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at a cost of $6 for adults. All proceeds from dinner will go toward COA services for homebound seniors. Admission to the jamboree is free of charge, but freewill offerings are appreciated. Proceeds at the door are split evenly by the fiddlers association and the COA. The Commission on Aging is located at 320 W. Woodlawn Ave. in Hastings. For more information, call Nellie, 517-628-2108, or Bob, 269-945-2500. The COA is a Barry County United Way member agency. Area Obituaries Nancy Lee Cheeseman Thomas Winn Thompson VERMONTVILLE, MI Nancy Lee Cheeseman, age 75, of Vermontville, died Tuesday, February 7, 2012. Mrs. Cheeseman was born July 10, 1936, in Lansing, the daughter of J.D. and Hazel C. (Kimmel) Blackburn. Nancy was an accomplished musician playing steel guitar in her musical group for 15 years at events such as Governor Williams’ ball and in places including Soldiers’ Field in Chicago. Nancy also played guitar and electric bass plus vocals for her husband’s band for 20 years. Nancy was involved in various activities as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses for over 55 years, remaining faithful in service up to the present time. She married Vance R Cheeseman in October of 1956 and they enjoyed over 55 years of marriage. She is survived by her husband Vance; daughter, Penny (Ronald) Carrero; and granddaughter Lyndi Carrero, all of Charlotte. A memorial service will be held at the Charlotte Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses located at 40 N. Chester Rd. (corner of M-79), Charlotte, on Saturday, February 18, at 2 p.m. with Elder Jeff Teachout officiating. Interment will be at Hillside Cemetery in Kalamo Township. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Eaton Community Hospice or Charlotte Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses. Online condolences may be made at www.prayfuneral.com. Arrangements by Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte. HASTINGS, MI - Thomas Winn Thompson, age 63, lifelong resident of Freeport and currently residing in Hastings, passed away Friday, February 10, 2012 at his home. He was born June 10, 1948 in Hastings the son of Frank and Pauline (Moore) Thompson. Tom attended Thornapple Kellogg High School, graduating in 1966. He honorably served in the US Army, during the Vietnam War. Tom was also in the National Guard. He married Gloria “Jean” Brock on August 5, 1972. Tom worked at Bradford-White in Middleville for 10 years and Ferrellgas of Lowell for 23 years. Tom was a NASCAR fan. He enjoyed watching the races on TV and at the track, whenever he got the chance. Tom enjoyed helping his son work on his race cars and watching him race them at the I-96 Speedway. Tom was a Detroit Lions fan. He enjoyed fishing, playing cards, shooting pool and especially loved spending time with his grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister-in-law, Jean Thompson of Goshen, IN and grandparents, Arthur and Amelia Moore of Freeport and Henry and Clara Thompson. Tom is survived by his wife, Gloria (Jean) of Hastings; sons, Frank (Sequoyah Rabbers) Thompson of Hastings, Jason (J’Amy) Thompson of Middleville; daughter, Shelly (JC) Keeler of Hastings; granddaughters, Ashley, Chelsea, Katie, Maycee and Briana; grandsons, Timothie, Kodee and Draven; brother, Dennis Thompson of Goshen, IN; sisters, Ellen (Keith) Near of Hastings, Karen (Rick) Pennington of Freeport; several nieces and nephews; several great nieces and nephews and many special friends. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family to help cover final expenses. A funeral service with full military honors was held on Wednesday, February 15, 2012 at Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. Pastor Susan Olson officiated the service. Military honors were provided by American Legion Post #45 of Hastings and the Active Army Military. Interment took place at Freeport Cemetery in Freeport. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc. Please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guestbook or to leave a message or memory to the family. James Oscar (Jimmy) Christie LANDER, WY - James Oscar (Jimmy) Christie, died in Lander, WY, on January 25, 2012. He was 76 years old. Jim was born on July 8, 1935, in Chattanooga, TN. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jennie Lou Gothard Christie and James Wallace Christie. Jimmy lived with his family in New York and Tennessee, and in Michigan and Wyoming near his sister, Jane, and brotherin-law, Richard Vander Weyden. He is survived by the Vander Weydens of Dubois, WY and Delton; sisters, Charlotte Broyles of Murfreesboro, TN and Margaret Schumacher of Murfreesboro, TN and Atlanta, GA; five nieces and a nephew. Jimmy was a member of First Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Murfreesboro, TN. Cremation has taken place. The cremains will be interred in Chattanooga, TN at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the Wyoming Life Resource Center, 8204 State Hwy. 789, Lander, WY 82520, where Jim lived the last years of his life. Call 945-9554 any time for Hastings Banner ads My granddaughter has been corresponding over the Internet with a young man who lives in another state. They have been doing this for about a year and occasionally speak on the phone, as well. He recently invited her to visit him, and she plans go. They are both adults, so that isn’t an issue, but I still worry about her leaving the state to meet with him. He seems like a good person from what she says, but I would feel better knowing more about him. I know about the Michigan Sex Offender Registry, but is there a way to check lists in other states? Yes. Some states have Internet sites listing registered sex offenders within their state. A list of websites by state can be found at www.fbi.gov/hq/cid/cac/registry.htm. In addition, the U.S. Department of Justice established the National Sex Offender Public Registry website at www.nsopr.gov. This site allows citizens to search the sex offender registries of participating states. Although the sex offender registry is a good database to search, keep in mind that names are only added when someone is caught and convicted. Generally speaking, people don’t get identified and convicted every time they commit a crime. Also, if someone has a violent history or other criminal background not involving a sexual offense, you won’t find his or her name on this list. As you realize, traveling out of state to meet someone for the first time can be risky. Perhaps it would be better to invite him to Michigan and make sure her family members are there to welcome him and get a feel for his character. If he has questionable intentions with your granddaughter, it would be more difficult to do so if he’s on her home turf with her friends and family around. If she insists on making this trip, encourage her to give you as many details of her plans as possible. You should know her itinerary and all contact numbers where she will be staying, as well as all identifying information on him such as his full name, address, telephone numbers, place of employment, email address, and anything else you can ascertain. You should have a plan for her to check in with you on a regular basis, and make sure he is aware these checks will occur. If you suspect something isn’t right during her trip, 77565819 contact the local law enforcement agency to check on her welfare. My teen will soon be learning to drive. Can you explain the process for licensing? With crashes being the leading cause of death for teens, and the likelihood of a licensed 16-year-old being involved in a crash as 1 in 5, Michigan adopted the graduated driver licensing laws. These are meant to gradually allow young drivers to develop their driving skills. To receive a Level 1 Learner’s License, a teen must be at least 14 years and 9 months in age, meet visual, physical and mental standards for drivers as outlined on the www.michigan.gov website, and complete Segment 1 of an approved driver education program. The teen must then present the certificate of completion signed by his or her legal guardian to the Michigan Secretary of State. The next step is to complete Segment 2 of an approved driver education program after having the Level 1 Learner’s License for six months. Your young driver must also pass a driving skills test and have no convictions, civil infractions or at-fault crashes for the 90 days prior to applying for Level 2. The parent or legal guardian must sign the application to certify that the teen had 50 hours behind-thewheel driving experience, including 10 hours of nighttime driving. To receive the Level 3 license, the teen must be 17 or older, have driven on the Level 2 License for at least six months, and have completed 12 consecutive months without a moving violation, at-fault crash, license suspension, or violation of the GDL restrictions. Provided the teen has met all requirements and has parental authorization, this will automatically happen when he or she reaches 17 years of age, and the Level 3 license will be mailed from Lansing. GDL ends for all teens when they reach age 18. A good resource for parents of driving teens is www.saferdrivingforteens.org. Visit this website to learn about the Michigan Checkpoints Program and create a parentteen driving agreement. If you have any questions, email them to waylandpost@gmail.com or write to Trooper Kellie Summerhays at Michigan State Police, 544 N. Main St., Wayland, MI 49348. Marriage Licenses NOTICE The minutes of the meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners held February 14, 2012, are available in the County Clerk’s Office at 220 W. State St., Hastings, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or www.barrycounty.org. Douglas Sterling Campbell, Delton and Crystal Christine Hughes, Dowling. JOHNSTOWN TOWNSHIP BOARD OF REVIEW INCOME TAX TIME IS HERE AGAIN! The Johnstown Township Board of Review will be held on the following dates and times. Time to visit... 9AM to Noon and 2PM to 5PM Monday, March 12, 2012 K.A. Mueller Accounting Tuesday, March 13, 2012 • Professional, Economical & Personal TAX & Accounting Services Thursday, March 15, 2012 77565904 6PM to 9PM and 6PM to 9PM If you require an appointment call 269-721-8443. The statutory requirements of dates and time have been fulfilled by publication in the Battle Creek Enquirer. 77565890 221 South Jefferson, Hastings, MI Phone: (269) 945-3547 www.kamuelleraccounting.com ® The INTERPRETER POSITIONS Historic Charlton Park in Hastings is looking for history enthusiasts to fill two part-time paid interpreter positions for our Spring 2012 education season. We are seeking fun and energetic people who enjoy history and working with children. Must be available April 9 - June 8, 2012, three mornings per week. 18+ years of age and the ability to stand more than two hours. Wage is $7.40 per hour. For the full position description and application procedure, please visit www.charltonpark.org. Applications due by March 1, 2012. Village, Museum & Recreation Area 77564841 The Michigan Fiddlers Association will be returning to the Barry County Commission on Aging Saturday, Feb. 25, for a day of music, food and dancing. “We’ve got a great program lined up,” said association representative and Hastings resident Bob Burghdoff. “It’s as much fun for the audience as it is for the musicians. Folks can join us for an hour or two, or for the whole day.” Musicians come in from all over Barry County and West Michigan, he said. Fiddlers will be showing their stuff from 2 to 5 p.m. A sign-up sheet will be available for openmicrophone performances, which will be from 5 to 6 p.m. From 6 to 9 p.m., the event will be plenty of music, including fiddles, guitars, dulcimers, bass fiddles, piano and more. Gavin Joseph Myers, born at Pennock Hospital on Feb. 5, 2012 at 12:50 a.m. to Katelynn Kellogg and Dylan Myers of Nashville. Weighing 6 lbs. 7 oz. and 20 inches long. ***** Kylee Rae, born at Pennock Hospital on Feb. 2, 2012 at 9:45 p.m. to Christina Anderson of Hastings. Weighing 6 lbs. 13 ozs. and 18 1/2 inches long. ***** Marley Helena, born at Pennock Hospital on Feb. 2, 2012 and 2:59 p.m. to Jeri Linette Hendershot and Jamie Seeber of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 15 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Chanze Lee, born at Pennock Hospital on Feb. 1, 2012 at 3:02 a.m. to Billie Jo and Doug Gonsalves Jr. of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 5 ozs. and 18 inches long. ***** Arianna Aleece, born at Pennock Hospital on Jan. 31, 2012 at 10:32 p.m. to Danielle Clemens and Don Brubaker of Hastings/Grand Rapids. Weighing 8 lbs. 5 ozs. and 21 inches long. ***** Zaida Alexxis Ann, born at Pennock Hospital to Amber and Chad Rayner of Middleville. ***** Maisyn Grace, born at Pennock Hospital on Feb. 1, 2012 at 5:16 a.m. to Holly Bidinger and Darin Card of Cloverdale. Weighing 5 lbs. 7 ozs. and 18 inches long. ***** Zoey Elizabeth, born at Pennock Hospital on Jan. 30, 2012 at 5:10 p.m. to Luke and Stacia Storm of Dowling. Weighing 7 lbs. 9 ozs. and 21 1/4 inches long. ***** Patrick Matthew, born at Pennock Hospital on Jan. 31, 2012 at 2:13 a.m. to Heather and Neil Wermer of Battle Creek. Weighing 8 lbs. 12 ozs. and 19 1/2 inches long. ***** Ella Marie, born at Pennock Hospital on Jan. 27, 2012 at 7:57 to Shanna Eckley and Asa Potter of Hastings. Weighing 8 lbs. 3 ozs. and 19.25 inches long. ***** Sophia Mae, born at Pennock Hospital on Jan. 26, 2012 at 7:10 p.m. to Toscha and Gordon Tait of Hastings. Weighing 6 lbs. 14 ozs. and 19 inches long. ***** Toryn Nazareth, born at Pennock Hospital on Jan. 29, 2012 at 12:01 a.m. to Cami Earl and Shane Hills of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 15 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Alan James, born at Pennock Hospital on Jan. 26, 2012 at 2:30 p.m. to Joseph and Elizabeth Norton of Woodland. Weighing 8 lbs. 10 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Jacelyn Noelle, born at Pennock Hospital on Dec. 15, 2011 at 5:26 a.m. to Ashley and Alex Goodroe (Maurer) of Hastings. Weighing 8 lbs. 14 ozs. and 21 inches long. 2545 S. Charlton Park Rd., Hastings, MI 49058-8102 Ph: 269-945-3775 Fax: 269-945-0390 www.charltonpark.org 77565885 �Page 8 — Thursday, February 16, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa by Elaine Garlock The Ionia County Chapter of Retired School Personnel meets today at the Heartland Center within Ionia High School. Vice president Karen Merchant, wife of retired Lakewood instructor Ben Merchant, will preside. The speaker will have as her topic a health concern. Author Jeffrey Zastrow died in an auto accident near Empire while returning from a book signing to promote one of his recent books. His new book “The Magic Room” highlights the town of Fowler and its famous bridal shop, Beckers’ and the four generation of Becker ladies who have run this shop located in a former bank building. He had also recently written a book on Gabbie Giffords who has since resigned her seat in Congress to concentrate on her recovery from a gunshot wound in her head. Ash Wednesday services will be conducted in several local churches next week to commemorate the solemn day which precedes the Lenten season by one day. Tri-River Museum group will meet Tuesday in Cedar Springs at 10 a.m. Monday afternoon, after graveside services for Virginia Behler, her family and their guests were served lunch at Central United Methodist Church’s fellowship hall. At the same time in the lounge, the United Methodist Women were meeting for the Call to Prayer and Self-Denial service. Preston Ayres is the new son born to J.J. and Jennifer Elliott, formerly of the area in early February. The family now lives in Olivet where both parents are physicians assistants. Saturday, Feb. 25 marks 110 years since the birth of Alice Brower Hoffs of Kalamazoo. She lived many years in Lake Odessa where her husband, the late Dr. M.A. Hoffs practiced medicine for 40 years, mostly in his office here, and then concluding his career as medical director of Barry County Medical Facility, now Thornapple Manor. She resides at Friendship Village in Kalamazoo where her address is 1400 N. Drake Road, Kalamazoo, MI 49007. A sidewalk sign outside Walker Pharmacy announces that daughter Abbie and husband Kyle Riffle are parents of a baby girl born on Feb. 11, named Veda. Bill and Tina Walker are the new grandparent. Daughter Abbie is a dentist. The Lake Odessa Area Historical Society met last Thursday with more than 20 present. Vice president Thelma Curtis presided. The audience enjoyed seeing a video of the 1987 Centennial Style show. The showing refreshed many memories of people who saw the original event and was a revelation to those who had not been there. A few lady members wore the same garments for this meeting they had worn in the film. Linda Cobb and Thelma provided refreshments, and the serving tables were decorated with a Valentine’s theme. The next event for the society is the art show Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 25 and 26. Local citizens are invited to bring for showing any type of artwork, be it oil painting, water colors, chalk work or drawings, carving, or metal works. The Ionia County Genealogical Society met Saturday with more than 20 present. Vice president Bonnie Mattson presided. Bruce and Margaret Chadwick of Saranac were present to relate the story of Sheldon Curtiss who served in the Civil War and spent months in the infamous Andersonville prison. They had prepared charts that showed their family lines which have many local citizens in the Tanner, Potter and Curtiss families. Members enjoyed the strawberry shortcake which followed, served by Rosie Hickey, Maureen Cross and Bernadine Cary. TOWNSHIP OF BALTIMORE 2012 NOTICE OF BOARD OF REVIEW PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Review will meet at the Township Hall, 3100 E. Dowling Rd., Hastings, MI 49058, to examine and review the 2012 Assessment roll. The board will convene on the following dates for the hearing of appeals of assessments or taxable values, poverty exemptions, parcel classification appeals and/or current year qualified agricultural denials: Tuesday, March 6, 2012, 8:00 am Organizational Meeting Monday, March 12, 2012, 9:00 am to noon and 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm Tuesday, March 13, 2012, noon to 3:00 pm and 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm Wrap up meeting (advertised if not on scheduled day already) And on such additional days as required to hear all persons who have given notice of the desire to be heard until assessment rolls have been revised, corrected and approved. Letter appeals will be accepted and must be received no later than 5:00 pm March 13, 2012. Tentative ratios and estimated multipliers for 2012 are as follows: Agricultural 52.42% 0.95383 Commercial 51.08% 0.97885 Industrial 47.53% 1.05196 Residential 46.00% 1.08695 Personal Property 50.00% 1.00000 Tentative equalization factor of 1.0000 for all classes is expected after completion of Board of Review. Ron Miller, Supervisor Baltimore Township Scott Anderson, Assessor Baltimore Township Baltimore Township Board Meetings are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, sex or disability. American with Disabilities (ADA) Notice The township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/hearing upon seven (7) days notice to Baltimore Township. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact Baltimore Township by writing or calling. Baltimore Township Clerk Penelope Ypma 3100 E. Dowling Rd. Hastings, MI 49058 77565854 269.721.3502 TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PARTIES PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a Public Hearing will be held by the Prairieville Township Zoning Board of Appeals on March 7, 2012 at 7:00 P.M. at the Prairieville Township Hall, 10115 S. Norris Road, within the Township. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the item(s) to be considered at this Public Hearing include, in brief, the following: 1. A request by Jollie and Ann Allen for Variance Approval from the 6 ft setback requirement applicable to accessory buildings as set forth in Section 4.20 D.4., Zoning Ordinance. The subject property is located at 15710 Rich Lane, Hickory Corners, MI 49060 and is within the R-1 Residence District. 2. A request by Beth, Chad, and Ann Holland for Variance Approval from the 35 ft front setback requirement applicable to waterfront lots as set forth in Section 4.24, Zoning Ordinance. The subject property is located at 7027 Division Avenue, Delton, MI 49046 and is within the R-2 Residence District. 3. Such other and further matters as may properly come before the Planning & Zoning Commission for this meeting. All interested persons are invited to be present or submit written comments on this matter(s) to the below Township office address. Prairieville Township will provide necessary auxiliary aids and services such as signers for the hearing impaired and audiotapes of printed materials being considered at the hearing upon five (5) days notice to the Prairieville Township Clerk. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Prairieville Township Clerk at the address or telephone number set forth below. Jim Stoneburner, Township Supervisor Prairieville Township Hall 10115 S. Norris Rd Delton, MI 49046 (269) 623-2664 77565872 BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY by Gerald Stein As Captain M. North glanced over the dining room of his ship, he smiled. All had gone well on the maiden voyage of the USS: BCBB. Leaving Port Nashville earlier in the day, the 36 passengers had embarked with high expectations. They were looking forward to a scenic river cruise, crossing the mighty Thornapple Lake, gliding silently past the quiet Quimby, and call at Port Hastings for a brief respite, before reaching their final stop of the day at Port Irving on the Thornapple. Yes, the voyage of the first ever USS: Barry County Bridge Barge had gone flawlessly on his part. No rocks, no snags, no hidden logs to hinder their way. NORTH N: 9 7 5 4 M: A Q 8 7 5 L: A K: 9 8 5 WEST N: A 3 M: K J 4 3 L: Q 10 8 6 2 K: Q J N: K J 8 6 2 M: _ L: J 5 4 K: K 10 7 3 2 SOUTH: But there was a decided unhappiness about the nine tables of bridge players. One of the hands that all had played sometime throughout the voyage had caused a lot of commotion and admitted failure at eight of the nine tables. Was it poor bidding, bad luck, poor playing or a combination of all three of these that had caused a ripple in the bridge world for these bridge-playing passengers? As the passengers were finishing their dinner on board the USS: BCBB, Captain M. North sought to find out just what had happened for only one table on the trip to make the proper contract. He approached the smiling pair at their table and asked them, “How did you do it?” “The bidding went like this,” interjected Sir Eager East. “North was the dealer... Here let me show you the bidding as I remember it.” He scribbled down the following bidding notations on a napkin. North West 1T 2L 2T EAST East South Pass 1NT (forcing for one round) 3L! All pass “Yes,” spoke up Ms. Winsome West, Sir Eager East’s partner. “I was surprised to see that we had won the contract. When I saw my partner’s hand, I knew that he expected me to make a good plan and win the day for our team. With neither team vulnerable, it was up to me to do my best.” “The lead was the K9,” continued Sir Eager East. “It looked to be the top of nothing.” He smiled. Ms. Winsome West continued, “Before I dared make a play, I had to look carefully at both of our hands to see what my plan would be. This is what I discovered by stopping for a full minute to see how many losers I had in my hand. I needed nine tricks of the 13 to make our contract of 3L. Here Ms. Winsome West sat back recalling her hand: “I had no losers in spades with the NA and NK; I had 4T losers in my hand; I had 2L losers, the LK and the LA; and I had one club loser, the KA. I had a total of seven losers. How was I going to make some of those losers go away? She munched daintily on a radish. “Here was my Plan, and I formulated it silently in these words: I will not draw trumps immediately. I will N: Q 10 M: 10 9 6 2 L: K 9 7 3 K: A 6 4 use the three trumps that my partner provided for me to trump three heart tricks from my hand, and I will try to use a long suit to dispose of one other loser.” “And that is just what she did,” interjected Sir Eager East. “After the lead of the K9, she called for a small club from the dummy. South put up her KA, and Ms. Winsome selected the KJ. South huddled for a bit, but then resolutely returned her partner’s lead, much to the delight of my partner who took the second trick with the KQ in her hand. She immediately began to follow her plan by leading the T3 from her hand, and she trumped it with the L4. For the next trick, she led the good KK, and she pitched another heart loser from her hand. She next led a small space from the dummy and took the NA in her hand. She led another heard and trumped it with the L5, making three of her hearts go away. “Yes,” continued the Ms. Winsome West. “Everything was going according to my plan. I next led the NK, and I noticed that the south defender had played the NQ while I played my last spade, the N3. I led the NJ next expecting her to trump. She did with the L3; I overtrumped with the L6, and I was back in my hand, right where I wanted to be. I led the TK, my last losing heart, and I trumped it with the LJ. I was on the board with eight tricks for our side, and I still had four trumps left in my hand. I led a small space and when South followed with a heart discard, I trumped it with the L2 and North had to follow suit with his last spade. I led the L8 to North’s LA, a club discard from the dummy, and South’s lowest diamond. North then led the T8 ; I pitched the N8 from the board, and South played the LK while I played my L10. The last trick was mine with the LQ. We made our contract with 3L with an overtrick.” She finished with a flourish and a huge smile. Captain M. North walked away slowly, “Playing bridge like that,” he thought, “is a lot like navigating the Mighty Thornapple. Watch out for snags; follow your compass, and you will make it to a safe port.” He smiled too. It had been a good day. (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs.) Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of EDWARD JONES Explore the world of international investments You’re probably accustomed to measuring the progress of your investments, and the overall condition of the investment world, by checking on indexes such as the Dow Jones Industrial Average and the S&P 500. And since these types of benchmarks focus almost exclusively on American companies, you might get the idea that the best investments are located right here in the United States. But that impression would be false — because there are, literally, a world of investment opportunities beyond the U.S. borders. In fact, as of the end of 2010, U.S. stock markets constituted less than a third of the total global stock market value, according to the World Bank. And you can probably just look around at the products you use in your daily life to identify many successful foreign companies. Why invest a portion of your portfolio internationally? Here are a couple of reasons to consider: • Growth potential — The United States is a mature, highly developed economy. That doesn’t mean, of course, that we have no “upside” here. However, you can also find considerable growth potential in emerging markets — countries such as China, India, Brazil and Mexico that are characterized by younger, less mature economies. • Diversification — The world’s financial markets are somewhat dependent on one another, but that doesn’t mean they constantly move in unison. In any given year, the U.S. markets may be down, but international markets might be doing better. Consequently, if during that year, you had invested only in U.S. companies, your portfolio may have taken a hit. It’s important to diversify your portfolio by investing in many different vehicles, but you can also boost your diversification through geography. (Keep in mind, though, that diversification can’t guarantee a profit or protect against loss.) While international investing can be beneficial, it does not come without risks. For one thing, when you invest overseas, you may encounter political instability, which could threaten the financial markets of a country or region. Conversely, financial problems, such as the European debt crisis, can result in loss of confidence in individual governments. Also, you might experience currency risk, which means that changes in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to foreign currencies could harm the value of your investments. And in any given year, any market, foreign or domestic, may be down. Ultimately, you should probably limit your exposure to international investments to no more than 20% to 25% of your overall portfolio, with the exact amount, if any, depending on your situation — your goals, risk tolerance, time horizon, financial situation and other factors. You may also want add an international flavor to your portfolio by investing in quality U.S. companies that do a considerable amount of business abroad. In any case, given the more complex nature of international investing, you’ll want to consult with a financial professional before writing a check. Still, consider the international investment world. With a little exploring, you may discover some good possibilities out there. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 29.27 +.45 AT&T 30.07 +.03 BP PLC 46.47 -.13 CMS Energy Corp 21.61 -.30 Coca-Cola Co 68.90 +.35 Eaton 51.74 +.45 Family Dollar Stores 57.09 +.01 Fifth Third Bancorp 13.30 -.23 Flowserve CP 117.16 +2.55 Ford Motor Co. 12.48 -.40 General Mills 39.80 +.41 General Motors 25.40 -.82 Intel Corp. 26.78 +.14 Kellogg Co. 50.30 -.52 McDonald’s Corp 99.55 -1.36 Pfizer Inc. 21.33 +.28 Ralcorp 74.55 -.45 Sears Holding 48.77 +1.47 Spartan Motors 5.87 -.34 Spartan Stores 17.41 -1.16 Stryker 53.52 -1.66 TCF Financial 11.02 +.55 Walmart Stores 62.22 +.53 Gold $1720.88 -25.67 Silver $33.58 +.64 Dow Jones Average 12,878 unchanged Volume on NYSE 693M +11M BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN February 16, 2012 Given under Public Act 165 of the Public Acts of Michigan, 1971 EQUALIZATION RATIOS AND MULTIPLIERS BY CLASSIFICATION Assessment Jurisdiction TOWNSHIP Agricultural Ratio Mult Assyria Baltimore Barry Carlton Castleton Hastings Hope Irving Johnstown Maple Grove Orangeville Prairieville Rutland Thornapple Woodland Yankee Springs 53.00% 52.42% 48.11% 56.45% 49.63% 55.08% 56.18% 50.69% 49.61% 51.44% 63.48% 40.61% 45.10% 48.07% 59.52% 50.23% 0.9434 0.9538 1.0393 0.8857 1.0075 0.9078 0.8900 0.9864 1.0079 0.9720 0.7876 1.2312 1.1086 1.0401 0.8401 0.9954 City of Hastings N/C Commercial Ratio Mult Industrial Residential Timber/Cutover Ratio Mult Ratio Mult 52.81% 0.9468 51.08% 0.9789 50.71% 0.9860 49.54% 1.0093 47.59% 1.0506 53.60% 0.9328 50.32% 0.9936 57.94% 0.8630 49.76% 1.0048 49.62% 1.0077 49.44% 1.0113 52.72% 0.9484 61.14% 0.8178 56.15% 0.8905 62.13% 0.8048 48.23% 1.0367% 48.50% 47.53% 59.02% 43.22% 68.10% 54.10% 56.20% 59.47% 51.72% 52.50% 55.53% 40.55% 67.74% 50.93% 58.00% 49.48% 1.0309 1.0520 0.8472 1.1569 0.7342 0.9242 0.8897 0.8408 0.9667 0.9524 0.9004 1.2330 0.7381 0.9817 0.8621 1.0105 50.89% 52.82% 54.80% 55.62% 54.92% 50.37% 48.19% 49.80% 51.93% 53.08% 50.07% 49.65% 55.18% 51.86% 56.65% 54.15% 0.9825 0.9464 0.9124 0.8990 0.9104 0.9927 1.0376 1.0040 0.9628 0.9420 0.9986 1.0070 0.9061 0.9641 0.8826 0.9234 N/C N/C N/C N/C N/C N/C N/C N/C N/C N/C N/C N/C N/C N/C N/C N/C 52.42% 49.09% 1.0185 54.15% 0.9234 N/C 0.9538 Ratio Mult Developmental Ratio Mult Personal Ratio N/C 50.00% N/C 50.00% N/C 50.00% N/C 50.00% N/C 50.00$ N/C 50.00% N/C 50.00% N/C 50.00% N/C 50.00% N/C 50.00% N/C 50.00% N/C 50.00% N/C 50.00% 81.60% 0.6127 50.00% N/C 50.00% 51.65% 0.9681 50.00% N./C 50.00% Mult 1.0000 1.0000 1.0000 1.0000 1.0000 1.0000 1.0000 1.0000 1.0000 1.0000 1.0000 1.0000 1.0000 1.0000 1.0000 1.0000 1.0000 Pursuant to Section 211.34A of the Michigan General Property Tax Law, the following statement is published showing equalization ratios and multipliers necessary to compute individual state equalized valuation for real and personal property for 2012 assessments. Karen J. Scarbrough, Equalization Director 77565816 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 16, 2012 — Page 9 Broadway and Michigan at Jefferson Street just after the Civil War. It was used for 20 years until 1884, when it was condemned for not having a handrail. A handrail was provided, and the wooden bridge was used until 1900. In 1902, repairs were being made to the bridge when a man and his team of horses tried to cross and they fell into the river. It later was decided that the bridge was again unsafe and it was removed from the river and Hastings went back to having just two bridges. Once the decision was made to build the new Michigan Avenue bridge, plans had to be made to remove the old bridge. In May of 1949, north-south traffic through Hastings was rerouted on the North Broadway Bridge. A temporary foot bridge was built to accommodate the foot traffic, and the first Michigan Avenue bridge abutment was started in June. The bridge was completed the following November. Over 1,000 people came out to watch and hear Mayor Leonard tell how the council had Herman Frost and his grandson, Donald Frost, are the first to cross the newly opened Michigan Avenue bridge in 1949. The elder Frost was one of the first to cross the iron truss bridge when it opened in 1886. History of the Michigan Avenue Bridge This column by the late Esther Walton first appeared in the Dec. 1, 1988, Banner. Construction of the third major Michigan Avenue Bridge is about to begin. Towns, cities and thoroughfares depend on their bridges to connect them to the rest of the world. Bridges were one of the first road construction done in a new community. Generally, bridges were built before the stumps were removed from the road. Most communities settled near water so they could use the water to power their mills. Bridges were needed to access the commerce on the opposite side of the road. The first Michigan Avenue wooden bridge was built from trees and manpower provided by the citizens of Hastings who wanted to provide a northern access to town. It was a simple affair, with cross beams and floor boards. Because it was wooden, it needed constant repair. Farmers with heavy wagon loads always approached wooden bridges with care. The invention and subsequent use of the “iron horse,” as the steam engine was called, proved the end of most wooden bridges. They just were not strong enough to hold steam engines and their equipment. On most main thoroughfares, wooden bridges were replaced with iron structures. The second Michigan Avenue Bridge, called the iron bridge, was built in 1886. The iron bridge served for almost 20 years before it needed repair. A 1905 Banner article reported that this bridge “was found to be in unsafe condition and is being repaired.” After the repair, the bridge again served the north-south traffic on the east side of Hastings. The iron bridge accommodated traffic for 60 years when it became too small to serve the motorized vehicles. It possibly would have been replaced sooner, but the second World War intervened. After World War II, thoughts could be turned to the replacement and building of new roads and bridges. A 1944 act provided for financial aid in planning projects, and Hastings became the first town to make application for planning funds under that act. The Hastings City Council met at the end of December 1948 to consider proposals to finance what it had decided was their most important project: replacement of Michigan Avenue bridge. The newspaper account tells the story: “Hastings may have a new Michigan Avenue bridge over the Thornapple next year. “A special meeting of the city council has been set for Tuesday night to consider proposals to finance the project and other details. “At the regular council session Monday night, Mayor Charles Leonard reported on the conference held last Thursday in Lansing with the Michigan Municipal Finance, at which he and other city officials were informed that Hastings may borrow on anticipated tax revenues for the construction of the new span, which would replace the one now marked ‘travel at your own risk.’ “Also attending Thursday’s conference were City Attorney Paul Siegel, City Clerk Franklin Beckwith and Alderman Dave Christian, Third Ward, chairman of the street committee. “Mayor Leonard reported that finance commission officials said that the city might borrow $15,000 to help finance the proposed four-lane span. “He explained that while the city must pay its share of their location on M-43 on North Broadway to the north city limits, that could be done in four annual installments totaling less than $20,000 ...” The plan for the bridge was for a structure 102 feet long with an overall width of 54 feet. It replaced the iron bridge. The iron bridge had replaced an old wooden structure built in 1839 or 1840. Herman Frost, a prominent Hastings resident, was one of the first people in 1886 to cross the iron bridge, along with his father. He was able to repeat that feat by being the first to cross the new concrete bridge when it was finished in 1949. Hastings, from the early 1840s, had at least two main north-south general purpose bridges over the Thornapple River. Michigan Avenue was the first and Broadway was the second. A third, lesser-known bridge was built between The new Michigan Avenue bridge was dedicated in Hastings in 1949, and more than 1,000 people attended the event. taken advantage of the state’s offer to pay half of the planning costs for the anticipated project. The mayor related “that one evening at a meeting he sat next to Aben Johnson, founder and president of the Hastings Manufacturing Company, who informed the city’s titular [titled] head that his company was ready to do something in a monetary way for the betterment of the town and asked if the mayor had any suggestions. Leonard immediately told of the need for the new Michigan Avenue bridge. The next morning, he was called to the Hastings Manufacturing Company office and was told by Johnson that the company directors and stockholders agreed that the bridge project was vital and handed him a $25,000 check as a nucleus fund. Mayor Leonard told him other money had gradually built up in the fund until 1949, when the council members saw their way free to erect the new bridge. The new span had a 40-foot clear roadway, compared to the former structure’s 18-foot roadway. The new bridge had two six-foot sidewalks, had two 51-foot spans, and 83 tons of structural steel had been used in its construction, plus 35 tons of reinforcement steel. This “new” bridge will be 40 years old this next spring [1989]. • NOTICE • To the Qualified Electors of BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN DELTON KELLOGG SCHOOLS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT A REGULAR ELECTION WILL BE HELD IN THE COUNTY OF BARRY, STATE OF MICHIGAN ON TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2012 The polls will be open from 7:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. Voting Precincts – Barry County, MI BALTIMORE TWP. 3100 E. Dowling Rd, Hastings Baltimore Township Hall JOHNSTOWN TWP 13641 S M37 Hwy, Dowling Johnstown Township Hall RUTLAND CHARTER TWP. PRECINCT 1 AND 2 2461 Heath Rd., Hastings Rutland Charter Twp. Hall BARRY TWP PRECINCT 1 Kellogg School Rd, Hickory Corners - Fire Station ORANGEVILLE TWP 7350 Lindsey Rd, Plainwell Orangeville Township Hall BARRY TWP PRECINCT 2 155 E Orchard St, Delton Barry Township Hall PRAIRIEVILLE TWP PRECINCT 1 10155 S Norris Rd, Delton Prairieville Township Hall HOPE TWP 5463 S M43 Hwy, Hastings Hope Township Hall PRAIRIEVILLE TWP PRECINCT 2 11351 Lindsay Rd, Plainwell Pine Lake Fire Department YANKEE SPRINGS TWP PRECINCT 1 284 N Briggs Rd, Middleville Yankee Springs Twp Hall YANKEE SPRINGS TWP PRECINCT 2 1425 S Payne Lake Rd Wayland MI 49348 Electors who wish to receive an Absentee Voter ballot for the election by mail may submit an AV application by 2:00 p.m. on February 25, 2012. Electors qualified to obtain an Absentee Voter Ballot for the election may vote in person in the Township/City Clerk’s office up to 4:00 p.m. on February 27, 2012. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the following will PENNY YPMA SUSAN K. BUTLER appear on the ballots: BALTIMORE TOWNSHIP CLERK MAPLE GROVE TOWNSHIP CLERK An iron truss bridge over the Thornapple River at Michigan Avenue served the city for 60 years. Shown here looking to the south, the iron truss bridge on Michigan Avenue, was replaced in 1949. It was deemed too small to accommodate motor vehicles. 3100 E. Dowling Rd, Hastings MI 49058 Phone: 269-721-3402 Office • 269-945-3228 Home 9752 Evart Rd., Nashville, MI 49073 Phone: 517-852-1859 DEBRA KNIGHT BARRY TOWNSHIP CLERK 155 E. Orchard St, PO Box 705, Delton MI 49046 Phone: 269-623-5171 JENNIFER GOY ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP CLERK 7350 Lindsey Rd, Plainwell MI 49080 Phone: 269-664-4522 DEBBY JACKSON HOPE TOWNSHIP CLERK 5463 S M43 Hwy, Hastings MI 49058 Phone: 269-948-2464 JILL OWENS PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP CLERK 10115 S. Norris Rd, Delton MI 49046 Phone: 269-623-2664 JUNE P. DOSTER JOHNSTOWN TOWNSHIP CLERK 1815 Lacey Rd, Dowling MI 49050 Phone: 269-721-9905 JANICE C. LIPPERT YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP CLERK 284 N. Briggs Rd, Middleville MI 49333 Phone: 269-795-9091 TREASURER’S CERTIFICATE I, Susan VandeCar, Treasurer of Barry County, Michigan, hereby certify that as of December 28, 2011 the record of this office indicate that the total of all voted increases over and above the tax limitation established by the Constitution of Michigan, in any local units of government affecting the taxable property located in County of Barry is as follows: By Barry County: Comm On Aging Thornapple Manor Transit Park 911 .5000 mills .2100 mills .2500 mills 2259 mills .9816 mills 2011-2014 2011-2025 2011-2014 2011-2016 2011-2014 By Baltimore Township: Library .3000 mills 2011-2012 By Barry Township: Fire Police 2.0000 mills 2.0000 mills 2011 2011 By Hope Township: Road Fire/Cemetery 1.0000 mills 1.0000 mills 2011 2011 By Johnstown Township: Library Fire Road .3000 mills 1.0000 mills .5000 mills 2011-2012 2011-2013 2011-2013 By Orangeville Township: Road 1.5000 mills 2011-2012 By Prairieville Township: Road Police Fire Added Fire .9087 mills .8174 mills .8174 mills .5000 mills 2011-2012 2011-2012 2011-2012 2011-2012 By Yankee Springs Twp: Fire .5000 mills 2011-2014 By Allegan RESA By Barry ISD By Kalamazoo RESA By Kalamazoo Valley CC Enhanced/Op/Debt Enhanced/Op/Debt Op/Debt 4.1217 mills 1.9522 mills 3.3316 mills 2.8135 mills continuous continuous continuous continuous Date: December 28, 2011 77565858 Susan VandeCar, Treasurer, Barry County Presidential Candidates for the Republican Party Presidential Candidate for the Democratic Party Voters must request either a Democratic or a Republican Ballot. For the Delton Kellogg School District Only, voters may request a ballot without presidential primary so they may vote on the millage proposal only. THE FOLLOWING PROPOSAL will appear on all ballots the Delton Kellogg School District: DELTON KELLOGG SCHOOLS OPERATING MILLAGE RENEWAL PROPOSAL EXEMPTING PRINCIPAL RESIDENCE AND OTHER PROPERTY EXEMPTED BY LAW 18 MILLS FOR THE YEAR 2012 Full text of the ballot proposal may be obtained at the administrative offices of Delton Kellogg Schools, 327 North Grove Street, Delton, Michigan 49046, telephone: 269-623-9246. An application for an absent voter ballot may be applied for any time before 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 25, 2012. Please contact your Township or City Clerk for further information. QUALIFICATIONS TO VOTE Citizen of the United States At least 18 years of age on or before February 28, 2012 Resident of Michigan and the township/city where you are registered to vote. ************************************* Persons with special needs, as defined in the Americans with Disabilities Act, should contact the Township Clerk. Persons who are deaf, hard of hearing or speech impaired may place a call through the Michigan Relay Center TDD#1-800-649-3777. YOU MUST BE REGISTERED TO QUALIFY AS A VOTER! Pamela A. Jarvis, Barry County Clerk �Page 10 — Thursday, February 16, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by RYAN J. VANZANDT, A SINGLE MAN and AMY DEVON CLARK, A SINGLE WOMAN, to JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., Mortgagee, dated August 22, 2008, and recorded on August 27, 2008, in Document No. 20080827-0008608, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety Thousand Three Hundred Eighteen Dollars and Twenty-Five Cents ($90,318.25), including interest at 6.750% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on March 15, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: Commencing at the intersection of Thornapple Lake Highway and the East line of Section 25, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, for place of beginning, thence Southwesterly along the center of said highway 76 feet, thence Southeasterly at right angles to said highway 177 feet, thence Northeasterly at right angle 119 feet, thence Northwesterly 177 feet, more or less, to a point in the traveled center line of Thornapple Lake Highway 33 feet Northeasterly from the intersection of said section line with the West Section line of Section 30 of Castleton Township and being the East line of Section 25 of Hastings Township, thence Southwesterly along said traveled center line of Thornapple Lake Highway 33 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A. Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 JPMC.000094 (0277565955 16)(03-08) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Allen R Childers and Felisha J Childers, his wife to Gehrke Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated July 23, 1998 and recorded August 13, 1998 in Instrument # 1016462 , and rerecorded on October 15, 1998 in Instrument # 1019485 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned through mesne assignments to: CitiMortgage, Inc, by assignment dated November 13, 2009 and recorded November 20, 2009 in Instrument # 200911200011349 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Eight Thousand Eight Hundred Ninety-Five Dollars and Ten Cents ($78,895.10) including interest 4% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on March 15, 2012 Said premises are situated in City of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Part of the Northwest one quarter, section 36, Town 3 North Range 7 West, village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, described as: beginning at a point on the North section line South 89 degrees 30 minutes 01 second West 758.00 Feet from the North one quarter corner of section 36, thence South 00 degrees 45 minutes 01 second West 199.11 Feet; thence North 89 degrees 10 minutes 54 seconds West 252.39 Feet to the centerline of Kellogg road; thence along the centerline of Kellogg road North 34 degrees 21 minutes 55 seconds East 235.53 Feet to the North line of section 36; thence along said section line North 89 degrees 30 minutes 01 second East 122.02 Feet to the point of beginning Commonly known as 424 Kellogg, Nashville MI 49073 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 2/16/2012 CitiMortgage, Inc, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-55765 (02-16)(03-08) NOTICE TO BIDDERS BARRY COUNTY ROAD COMMISSION Sealed proposals will be received at the office of the Barry County Road Commission, 1725 West M-43 Highway, P.O. Box 158, Hastings, MI 49058, until 10:00 A.M., Tuesday, April 10, 2012, for the following items. Specifications and additional information may be obtained at the Road Commission Office at the above address or at our web site at barrycrc.org Asphalt Paving Scraper Blades Roadside Mowing Bituminous Mixtures Traffic Control Signs Brush Spraying Grass Seed Dust Control Crack Seal Blocks Culverts Cleaning Supplies Pavement Marking Erosion Control Slag Nuts & Bolts The Board reserves the right to reject any or all proposals or to waive irregularities in the best interest of the Commission. TOWNSHIP OF PRAIRIEVILLE 2012 NOTICE OF BOARD OF REVIEW PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Review will meet at the Township Hall, 10115 S. Norris Rd. Delton, Michigan 49046, to examine and review the 2012 assessment roll. The board will convene on the following dates for the hearing of appeals of assessments or taxable values, poverty exemptions, parcel classification appeals and/or current year qualified agricultural denials: Tuesday, March 6, 2012, 1:00 pm Organizational Meeting Monday, March 12, 2012, 1:00 to 4:00 pm and 6:00 to 9:00 pm Tuesday, March 13, 2012, 9:00 am to Noon and 1:00 to 4:00 pm And on such additional days as required to hear all persons who have given notice of the desire to be heard until assessment rolls have been revised, corrected and approved. APPOINTMENTS ARE SUGGESTED; letter appeals will be accepted and must be received no later than 5:00 pm March 12, 2012 Tentative ratios and estimated multipliers for 2012 are as follows: Agricultural 40.61% 1.2312 Commercial 52.72% 0.9484 Industrial 40.55% 1.2330 Residential 49.65% 1.0070 Personal Property 50.00% 1.0000 Tentative equalization factor of 1.0000 for all classes is expected after completion of Board of Review. 77565779 BOARD OF COUNTY ROAD COMMISSIONERS OF THE COUNTY OF BARRY Frank M. Fiala Chairman D. David Dykstra Member David D. Solmes Member FORECLOSURE NOTICE RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES, P.C. MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. Mortgage Sale - Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by Katherine J Niles, and Jeremiah A Niles, wife and husband to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. acting solely as a nominee for Countrywide Home Loans Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 19, 2004, and recorded on May 3, 2004, as Document Number: 1126789, Barry County Records, said mortgage was assigned to Bank of America, N.A. successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing L.P FKA COUNTRYWIDE HOME LOANS SERVICING LP by an Assignment of Mortgage dated October 05, 2011 and recorded October 17, 2011 by Document Number: 201110170009725, , on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Four Thousand Nine Hundred Eighty-One and 31/100 ($134,981.31) including interest at the rate of 5.75000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the Circuit Court in said Barry County, where the premises to be sold or some part of them are situated, at 01:00 PM on February 23, 2012 Said premises are situated in the Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: COMMENCING AT A POINT ON THE NORTH LINE OF SECTION 2, TOWN 3 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST, ON THE WESTERLY LINE OF HIGHWAY M-37 FOR POINT OF BEGINNING, THENCE WEST 1042.5 FEET ON SAID SECTION LINE, THENCE SOUTH 175 FEET, THENCE EAST PARALLEL WITH THE NORTH LINE OF SECTION 2, TO THE WESTERLY LINE OF HIGHWAY M-37, THENCE NORTHWESTERLY ALONG WESTERLY HIGHWAY LINE OF M-37 TO PLACE OF BEGINNING. Commonly known as: 1993 N M37 HWY The redemption period shall be 12.00 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or 15 days after statutory notice, whichever is later. Dated: January 26, 2012 Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Bank of America, N.A. successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing L.P FKA COUNTRYWIDE HOME LOANS SERVICING LP 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 (248) 335-9200 Case No. 11MI02070-1 (01-26)(02-16) 77565502 THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Melissa Hasty and Donald K. Hasty, Jr., husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Taylor, Bean and Whitaker Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated July 23, 2009 and recorded July 30, 2009 in Instrument Number 200907300007875, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by FDIC as Receiver for Colonial Bank by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Twenty-Eight Thousand Six Hundred Ninety-Six and 31/100 Dollars ($228,696.31) including interest at 5.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on FEBRUARY 23, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the Township of Hope, County of Barry, State of Michigan, is described as follows: That Part of the East 1/2, Northeast fractional 1/4, Section 4, Town 2 North, Range 9 West; described as: Beginning at the East 1/4 corner of said Section; thence North 88 degrees 59 minutes 27 seconds West 242.38 feet along the South line of said Northeast 1/4; thence North 00 degrees 21 minutes 32 seconds East 815.00 feet along the East line of the West 1075 feet of said East 1/2, Northeast 1/4; thence North 88 degrees 59 minutes 27 seconds West 250.00 feet; thence North 00 degrees 21 minutes 32 seconds East 492.53 feet; thence South 88 degrees 50 minutes 56 seconds East 493.30 feet, along the North line of the Southeast fractional 1/4 of said Northeast fractional 1/4; thence South 00 degrees 23 minutes 54 seconds West 1306.30 feet along the East line of said Section to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 12 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: January 26, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 426.3360 77565478 (01-26)(02-16) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by John L. Buffinga, an unmarried man, original mortgagor(s), to Comerica Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated August 18, 1992, and recorded on August 24, 1992 in Liber 552 on Page 607, and assigned by mesne assignments to Wells Fargo Bank, NA as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Twenty-Four Thousand Six Hundred FiftyThree and 47/100 Dollars ($24,653.47), including interest at 8.75% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 8, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at a point 1364.82 feet South of North 1/4 Post, Section 28, Town 1 North, Range 8 West, thence South 224.46 feet, thence West 400 feet, thence North 224.46 feet, thence East 400 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #392761F01 77565724 (02-09)(03-01) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Eric Johnson and Mary Johnson, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 28, 2006, and recorded on November 29, 2006 in instrument 1173221, and assigned by said Mortgagee to U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE TRUMAN FHA TRUST 2008-1 as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixteen Thousand Two Hundred Five and 18/100 Dollars ($116,205.18), including interest at 7% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 8, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Castleton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 4 Town 3 North, Range 7 West, Township of Castleton, Barry County, Michigan, thence South 176 feet for point of beginning, thence South 220 feet, thence East 1320 feet to the North-South 1/8 line of the Southeast 1/4; thence North 220 feet, thence West 1320 feet to the point of beginning. Except the East 610 feet The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #191965F04 77565736 (02-09)(03-01) Jim Stoneburner, Supervisor Prairieville Township Kevin Harris, Assessor Prairieville Township Prairieville Township Board Meetings are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, sex or disability. American with Disabilities (ADA) Notice The township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/hearing upon seven-(7) days notice to Prairieville Township. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact Prairieville Township by writing or calling. Jill Owens Prairieville Township Clerk 10115 S. Norris Rd. Delton, MI 49046 269-623-2726 Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads Reach thousands of area readers! 77565832 Case No. 10-274-CH CIRCUIT COURT SALE In pursuance and by virtue of a Judgment of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on September 16, 2011, U.S. Bank National Association ND in a certain cause therein pending, wherein U.S. Bank National Association ND was the Plaintiff and Robert J. Stauffer and Shannon J. Stauffer, husband and wife were the Defendants. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that I shall sell at public auction to the highest bidder, at public venue, at the at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI, that being the place of holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, on the 5th day of April, A.D., 2012, at 1:00:00 PM o’clock in the forenoon, Eastern Standard Time, the following described property, towit: All certain piece or parcel of land situated in the Village of Middleville, County of Barry and State of Michigan, described as follows: Situated in the Village of Middleville, County of Barry and State of Michigan: Lots 6, 7 and 8 of Block 59 of the Village of Middleville, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats on Page 27, City of Middleville, County of Barry, Michigan as recorded in Liber 1, Page 27 of Plats, Barry County Records and that parcel of land commencing at the Northwest corner of Lot 8, Block 59 in the plat of Village of Middleville, thence South 65.98 feet along the West line of said Lot 8; thence West 5.0 feet along the North line of Lot 11, Block 59; thence North 65.98 feet parallel to the West line of Lot 8; thence East 5 feet to the point of beginning. Commonly known as: 302 Cherry Street This property may be redeemed during the six months following the sale. Dated: February 16, 2012 Mark Sheldon Deputy Sheriff WELTMAN, WEINBERG & REIS CO., L.P.A. Stuart A. Best (P-40744) Attorney for Plaintiff 2155 Butterfield Drive Suite 200-S Troy, MI 48084/WWR#10032301 (02-16)(03-29) 77565846 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Kelley Lynn Carpenter and Douglas Edward Carpenter, Wife and Husband, original mortgagor(s), to Charter One Bank, N.A., Mortgagee, dated December 13, 2005, and recorded on January 17, 2006 in instrument 1158984, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eighty-Four Thousand Five Hundred Ninety-Six and 14/100 Dollars ($184,596.14), including interest at 7.33% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on February 23, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land in the Northeast 1/4 of Section 18, Town 4 North, Range 8 West, described as: Beginning at the Northwest corner of the Northeast 1/4 of said Section; thence East 46 2/3 rods; thence South 28 rods; thence West 20 rods; thence South 64 rods; thence West 26 2/3 rods; thence North 90 rods to beginning, except therefrom a parcel in the Northwest corner thereof that is 7 rods East and West by 30 rods North and South. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #370384F03 77565451 (01-26)(02-16) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Shanon Adams, A/K/A Shanon M. Adams, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated June 18, 2003, and recorded on July 23, 2003 in instrument 1109187, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Three Thousand Fifty-One and 66/100 Dollars ($63,051.66), including interest at 5.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 15, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Being Lot Number 6, Block 49, in Village of Middleville, as shown in the recorded plat/map thereof in Liber 1 of plats on Page 27 of Barry County records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 16, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #392400F01 77565826 (02-16)(03-08) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 16, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES Case No. 11-466-CH Notice of Judicial Foreclosure Sale on a Default Judgment and Judgment of Foreclosure Against Defendants Teresa J. Lindsey, f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker and Shana Ciampa NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to the terms of a Default Judgment and Judgment of Foreclosure of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan signed and filed on January 17, 2012, in the case of Eaton Federal Savings Bank, Plaintiff v Teresa J. Lindsey, f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker and Shana Ciampa, Defendants, Case No. 11-466-CH, wherein, among other things, the Court allowed the foreclosure of a mortgage granted by Teresa J. Lindsey f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker (Mortgagor) to Eaton Federal Savings Bank on September 27, 2007 and recorded October 4, 2007 at Instrument No. 200710040002745, pages 1 through 10, Barry County Records, against the Mortgagor. Pursuant to the Default Judgment and Judgment for Foreclosure, the mortgaged premises shall be sold at a public auction by or under the direction of Clerk/Sheriff for the County of Barry to the highest bidder at the main entrance to the Barry County Courthouse, 220 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 on Thursday, March 22, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., local time. The following described “Mortgaged Premises”: Parcel 1: Lot 13 of Standley’s First Addition to Fine Lake Park, Johnstown Township, Barry County, Michigan, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, on Page 31, Also, beginning at the Southeast corner of Lot 13 of Standley’s First Addition to Fine Lake Park, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, on Page 31; thence North 26 degrees East along the Easterly line of Lots 13 and 14 of said Plat, 100.00 feet, thence South 82 degrees 54 minutes East 50.00 feet; thence South 26 degrees West, 100.00 feet; thence North 82 degrees 54 minutes West 50.00 feet to the point of beginning. Parcel 2: Beginning at the Southwest corner of Lot 8 of Fine Lake Park, Johnstown Township, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof; thence Northeasterly along the East Shore of Fine Lake to a point 10 feet from said place of beginning; thence Easterly to a point on the Easterly line of said Lot which is 3 feet North of the Southeast corner of said Lot; thence Southerly along the East line of said Lot to the Southeast corner thereof; thence Westerly along the South line of said Lot to the place of beginning. The Mortgaged Premises, whose address is 823 East Shore Drive, Battle Creek, Michigan, 49017, also include all right, title and interests held by Teresa J. Lindsey f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker as of September 27, 2007, in the Mortgaged Premises. The Premises may be redeemed during the six (6) months following the date of sale. BODMAN PLC By: Sandra L. Jasinski (P37430) Attorneys for Eaton Federal Savings Bank 229 Court Street, P.O. Box 405 Cheboygan, Michigan 49721 (231) 627-8000 Date: February 2, 2012 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Rebecca E. Duff, a single woman, to Mainstreet Savings Bank, FSB, Mortgagee, dated January 3, 2003 and recorded January 9, 2003 in Instrument Number 1095136, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Three Thousand Six Hundred SeventyNine and 26/100 Dollars ($73,679.26) including interest at 6.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on MARCH 8, 2012. Said premises are located in the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 960 of the City, formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded Plat thereof in Liber A of Plats, on Page 1. City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: February 9, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 2683 File No. 362.8839 77565796 (02-09)(03-01) Dates of publication: February 2, 9, 16, 23, March 1, 8 and 15, 2012. 77565541 MORTGAGE SALE This is an attempt to collect a debt, and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by THOMAS H. CHASE, a single man, and SHIRLEY A. CHASE, a married woman, Mortgagors, to INDEPENDENT MORTGAGE CO. SOUTH MICHIGAN, Mortgagee, dated February 18, 2005 and recorded February 22, 2005 in Instrument #1141705 which was assigned to INDEPENDENT BANK of 4200 East Beltline, Grand Rapids, Michigan, by Assignment dated April 18, 2011 and recorded on April 20, 2011 in Instrument No. 201104200004350. By reason of such default the undersigned elects to declare the entire unpaid amount of said mortgage due and payable forthwith. At the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on said mortgage the sum of FIFTY THOUSAND EIGHT HUNDRED SIXTY SIX AND 48/100 ($50,866.48) dollars including interest at the rate of 4.125% per annum. No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided and to pay said amount with interest as provided in said mortgage, and all legal costs, charges, and expenses, including attorney fees allowed by law, said mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the east door of the Barry County Courthouse, the place of holding the Circuit Court within the County of Barry, City of Hastings, Michigan, on March 15, 2012, at 1:00 p.m., local time. Pursuant to Public Act No. 104, Public Acts of 1971 [MCLA 600.3240(8), MSA 27A.3240(8)] the redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of the foreclosure sale, unless the property is determined to be abandoned under MCLA 600.3241a; MSA 27A.3241(1), in which case the property may be redeemed during the 30 days immediately following the sale or expiration of statutory notice period. The premises covered by said mortgage are situated in the Township of Maple Grove, County of Barry, State of Michigan, described as follows, to wit: Commencing at the West 1/4 post of Section 23, Town 2 North, Range 7 West, Maple Grove Township, Barry County Michigan; thence South 40 rods for a place of beginning; thence North 130 feet; thence East 600 feet; thence South 130 feet; thence West 600 feet to the place of beginning. Together with an easement in common that is appurtenant thereto for purposes of ingress and egress thereto over premises described as: Commencing at the West 1/4 post of Section 23, Town 2 North, Range 7 West; thence South 40 rods; thence North 130 feet for a place of beginning; thence East 600 feet; thence North 33 feet; thence West 600 feet; thence South 33 feet to the place of beginning. The default and foreclosure proceedings include a 1992 Fairmont mobile home, serial #MY9385449A8, permanently affixed thereto, as evidenced by the Certificate of Mobile Home Title and recorded in Instrument #1141704. INDEPENDENT BANK, Assignee SCHENK, BONCHER & RYPMA Curtis D. Rypma P44421 601 Three Mile Road, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49544-1601 77565568 (616) 647-8277 THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE Default having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made by RONALD L. VESTER and SHIRLEY M. VESTER, Husband and Wife, 441 E. Shore Drive, Battle Creek, Michigan 49017 to SMB MORTGAGE COMPANY n/k/a SOUTHERN MICHIGAN BANK & TRUST, 2 West Chicago Street, Coldwater, Michigan 49036 dated January 24, 2008 and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry and State of Michigan, on February 4, 2008 in Instrument No. 2008-204-0001017 of Mortgages, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date of this notice, for principal and interest the sum of Eighty-Six Thousand Three Hundred Fifty-Two and 87/100 ($86,352.87) Dollars and no proceedings having been instituted to recover the debt now remaining secured by said Mortgage, or any part thereof, where by the power of sale contained in said Mortgage has become operative; Now Therefore, Notice is Hereby Given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in said Mortgage and in pursuance of the statute in such case made and provided, the said Mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the premises therein described or so much thereof as may be necessary, at public auction, to the highest bidder, at Courthouse Bldg, Barry County Courthouse in the City of Hastings, and County of Barry, Michigan, that being the place of holding Circuit Court in and for said County, on March 15, 2012, at 1:00 p.m. in the afternoon of said day, and said premises will be sold to pay the amount as aforesaid then due on said Mortgage together with 6.6250% percent interest on the Mortgage, legal costs, Attorneys’ fees and also any taxes and insurance that said Mortgagee does pay on or prior to the date of said sale; which said premises are described as follows, to-wit: County of Barry, Township of Johnstown, State of Michigan, is described as follows: Lot 13 of Oak Park, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats on page 22. ALSO, beginning at a point on the East line of Cottage Road directly East of the Northeast corner of Lot 13 in the Plat of Oak Park; running thence Easterly 100 feet; thence Southerly parallel with said East line of said Cottage Road 50 feet; thence Westerly to a point in the East line of said Cottage Road 50 feet south of the Place of Beginning; thence Northerly on the East line of said Cottage Road to the place of beginning. Pursuant to MCL 600.3240, the last day to redeem the Sheriff's Deed will be September 15, 2012, however, if an Affidavit of Abandonment is filed with the Register of Deeds, the last day to redeem will be April 15, 2012, or until the time to provide the notice was required by MCL 600.3241a(c) expires, whichever is later. If said property is in fact sold at the above described foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the above listed Mortgagor will be responsible to the person who buys the property at the foreclosure sale or to Southern Michigan Bank & Trust Company for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 16, 2012 SOUTHERN MICHIGAN BANK & TRUST Mortgagee. DRESSER, DRESSER, HAAS & CAYWOOD, P.C. By: P. Joseph Haas, Jr. Attorney for SOUTHERN MICHIGAN BANK & TRUST Business Address 112 South Monroe Street 77565915 Sturgis, MI 49091 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Michael J Dehaan, A Single Man, original mortgagor(s), to Broadmoor Financial Services, Inc., Mortgagee, dated October 10, 2003, and recorded on October 16, 2003 in instrument 1115720, and assigned by mesne assignments to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Forty Thousand Five Hundred Twenty-Six and 38/100 Dollars ($140,526.38), including interest at 5.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on February 23, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Northeast corner of the Northwest 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 22, Town 3 North, Range 10 West, Yankee Sprints Township, Barry County, Michigan: Thence West 710 feet along the North line of Section 22; thence South 00 degrees 11 minutes East 495 feet parallel with the West 1/8 line of said Section 22 for the place of beginning; thence East 710 feet parallel with the North line of said Section 22; thence South 00 degrees 11 East 325 feet along said West 1/8 line of Section 22; thence West 710 feet; thence North 00 degrees 11 minutes West 325 feet to the place of beginning. Together with a shared easement 33 feet in width for ingress and egress, the East line of which is described as; Beginning at the Southwest corner of above described parcel and running thence North 00 degrees 11 minutes West 820 feet to the North line of said Section 22 and the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: January 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #389055F01 77565430 (01-26)(02-16) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Richard L. Singer, a single man and Nicole J. Edwards, a single woman, as joint tenants in common, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated January 4, 2006 and recorded January 9, 2006 in Instrument Number 1158704, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Morgan Stanley ABS Capital I Inc. Trust 2006-HE3 by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Six Thousand One Hundred Ninety-One and 97/100 Dollars ($106,191.97) including interest at 7.39% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on MARCH 8, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Baltimore, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Township of Baltimore, County of Barry and State of Michigan: Beginning at the South 1/4 corner of Section 35, Town 2 North, Range 8 West; thence West 335 feet along the South line of said Section 35; thence North 163 feet parallel with the North and South 1/4 line of said Section 35; thence East, 252 feet, thence North 90 feet; thence East, 83 feet to said North and South 1/4 line; thence South 253 feet along said 1/4 line to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: February 9, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 306.4472 77565744 (02-09)(03-01) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: William Ellis and Judy Ellis, Husband and Wife to Ameriquest Mortgage Company, Mortgagee, dated August 28, 2003 and recorded September 9, 2003 in Instrument # 1112845 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Ameriquest Mortgage Securities Inc., Asset-backed Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2003-10, by assignment dated January 20, 2012 and subsequently recorded in Barry County Records on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Nine Thousand One Hundred Eighty-Six Dollars and Forty-Two Cents ($139,186.42) including interest 8.6% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00pm on March 1, 2012 Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land in the Northwest fractional one quarter of section 33, Town 4 North, Range 8 West described as: Commencing at the North one quarter post of said Section 33, thence South 2647.5 feet; thence South 89 degrees 57 minutes West 1273.18 feet to the place of beginning; thence North 54 degrees 5 minutes West 220 feet; thence North 35 degrees 22 minutes 15 seconds West 134 feet; thence South 15 degrees 5 minutes West 247.7 feet; thence North 89 degrees 57 minutes East 320 feet to the place of beginning. Commonly known as 522 Gaskill Rd, Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 2/2/2012 Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Ameriquest Mortgage Securities Inc., Asset-backed Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2003-10, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 11-53820 (0202)(02-23) 77565671 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by David Killgore and Karen Killgore, husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated June 1, 2007 and recorded June 4, 2007 in Instrument Number 1181301, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Federal National Mortgage Association ("FNMA") by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Three Thousand Ninety-Two and 83/100 Dollars ($93,092.83) including interest at 7% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on MARCH 15, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Rutland Charter, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the Township of Rutland, County of Barry, State of Michigan, is described as follows: A parcel of land located in the Northeast 1/4 of Section 11, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, described as follows: Beginning at a point on the center line of old M-37 which lies South 00 degrees 06 minutes 20 seconds East 433.26 feet and South 50 degrees 33 minutes 20 seconds East 1056.01 feet from the North 1/4 post of said Section 11; Thence South 39 degrees 26 minutes 40 seconds West 189.0 feet; Thence North 50 degrees 33 minutes 20 seconds West 217.69 feet; Thence North 32 degrees 19 minutes 08 seconds East 190.47 feet to the center of said highway; Thence South 50 degrees 33 minutes 20 seconds East 241.32 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: February 16, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 650.2340 77565840 (02-16)(03-08) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF A MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on December 16, 2004, by Justin D. Schultz and Heather B. Schultz, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, given by them to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on December 20, 2004, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 1138981, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of Ninety-Seven Thousand Fifty-One and 41/100 Dollars ($97,051.41); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, March 1, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE CITY OF HASTINGS, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: Lot 2 of Block 17 of Lincoln Park Addition to the City, formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 55. Commonly Known As: 636 W. Madison Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 Tax Parcel Number: 08-55-090-110-00 The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: January 18, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933 (517) 3718253 (01-26)(02-16) (01-26)(02-16) 77565418 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT; ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY SERVICE PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW. ATTENTION POTENTIAL PURCHASERS AT FORECLOSURE SALE: In the case of resolution prior to or simultaneously with the aforementioned foreclosure sale, U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate Trust 19992, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents, may rescind this sale at any time prior to the end of the redemption period. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited to the return of your bid amount tendered at the sale, plus interest. Default having occurred in the conditions of a Mortgage made by Stephen A. Elliott, Jr., an unmarried man ("Debtors") to Green Tree Servicing LLC (f/k/a Green Tree Financial Servicing Corporation), dated October 9, 1998, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry in the State of Michigan on October 9, 1998, in Document Number 1019205, et. seq., said Mortgage being last assigned to U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate Trust 1999-2, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents, ("Green Tree"), by Mortgage Assignment dated December 28, 2011, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry in the State of Michigan on January 9, 2012, in Document Number 201201090000311, et. seq., on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due as of the date of this Notice the sum of $104,661.55, which amount may or may not be the entire indebtedness owed by Debtors to Green Tree together with interest at 6.75 percent per annum. NOW THEREFORE, Notice is hereby given that the power of sale contained in said Mortgage has become operative and that pursuant to that power of sale and MCL 600.3201 et. seq., on March 1, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., on the East steps of the Circuit Court Building in Hastings, Michigan, that being the place for holding the Circuit Court and/or for conducting such foreclosure sales for the County of Barry, there will be offered at public sale, the premises, or some part thereof, described in said Mortgage as follows, to-wit: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF BARRY, COUNTY OF BARRY, STATE OF MICHIGAN, IS DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: PARCEL A: THAT PART OF THE SOUTHWEST 1/4 OF THE SOUTHWEST 1/4 OF SECTION 8, TOWN 1 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, DESCRIBED AS: COMMENCING AT THE WEST 1/8 POST OF THE SOUTHWEST 1/4; THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES 57' 37" EAST ON THE EAST AND WEST 1/8 LINE OF THE SOUTHWEST 1/4, 54.21 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING OF THIS DESCRIPTION; THENCE CONTINUING NORTH 89 DEGREES 57' 37" EAST, 729.09 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 26 DEGREES 37' 35" WEST, 361.52 FEET TO THE CENTERLINE OF FLORIA ROAD; THENCE NORTH 66 DEGREES 16' 54" WEST ON SAID CENTERLINE, 407.60 FEET; THENCE CONTINUING ON SAID CENTERLINE NORTH 62 DEGREES 31' 00" WEST, 163.68 FEET; THENCE CONTINUING ON SAID CENTERLINE NORTH 32 DEGREES 07' 43" WEST 67.90 FEET; THENCE CONTINUING ON SAID CENTERLINE NORTH 26 DEGREES 05' 11" WEST, 28.60 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. which also includes any interest Green Tree may have in the 1998 Fleetwood Mobile Home, Serial Number NFLW22AB05526BJ13. The redemption period shall be one (1) year from the date of sale unless the property is established to be abandoned pursuant to MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of sale or fifteen (15) days from the date the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(b) was posted and mailed. Dated: January 20, 2012 U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate Trust 1999-2, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents, By: DONALD A. BRANDT (P30183) BRANDT, FISHER, ALWARD & PEZZETTI, P.C. Attorneys for Green Tree 1241 E. Eighth Street, P.O. Box 5817 Traverse City, Michigan 49696-5817 (231) 941-9660 File No.: 6140.1060 Ad #19601 01/26, 02/02, 02/09, 02/16/2012 �Page 12 — Thursday, February 16, 2012 — The Hastings Banner SHORT FORECLOSURE NOTICE (BARRY COUNTY) MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the terms and conditions of a certain Mortgage made by Frances L. Gross (deceased), dated April 14, 2010, and recorded on June 9, 2010, in Instrument Number 201006090005525, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said Mortgage is held by Generation Mortgage Company. The sum claimed to be due and owing on said Mortgage as of the date of this Notice is $67,887.13, interest accruing at 5.56% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage shall be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the Barry County Courthouse, 220 West State Street, Hastings, MI 49058, at 1:00pm on Thursday, March 15, 2012. The Mortgagee will apply the sales proceeds to the debt secured by the Mortgage as stated above, plus interest on the amount due at a rate of interest equal to 5.56% per annum; all legal costs and expenses, including attorneys fees allowed by law; and also any amount paid by the Mortgagee to protect its interest in the property. The properties to be sold at foreclosure are all that real estate situated in the Township of Irving, County of Barry, State of Michigan, described as follows: Tax Parcel ID No.: 08-08-023-006-30 Commonly known as: 4708 Buehler Rd., Hastings, MI 49058-9535 The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of sale pursuant to M.C.L. § 600.3240(7). February 13, 2012 GENERATION MORTGAGE COMPANY Kilpatrick & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Generation Mortgage Company 903 N. Opdyke Rd., Suite C Auburn Hills, MI 48326 (248) 377-0700 77565908 (02-16)(03-08) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Richard Stafford and Kathy Stafford, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Kellogg Community Federal Credit Union, Mortgagee, dated January 15, 2010, and recorded on January 26, 2010 in instrument 201001260000759, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Four Thousand Two Hundred Nine and 77/100 Dollars ($124,209.77), including interest at 5.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 8, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 45, Fair Lake Park, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats, Page 77, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #393307F01 77565689 (02-09)(03-01) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Nathan McNabb, A Single Man, original mortgagor(s), to Cornerstone Home Loans, Mortgagee, dated December 6, 2007, and recorded on January 7, 2008 in instrument 20080107-0000195, and assigned by said Mortgagee to ABN AMRO Mortgage Group, Inc. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Six Thousand Five Hundred Sixty-Four and 94/100 Dollars ($76,564.94), including interest at 7% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 1, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The South 1/2 of Lots 1043 and 1044, except the West 3 feet of said Lot 1044 of the City, formerly Village of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded Plat therof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 2, 2012 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #385144F02 77565573 (02-02)(02-23) LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE TO CREDITORS Revocable Inter Vivos Trust THE VIRGINIA J. MAXWELL LIVING TRUST DATED NOVEMBER 14, 1997. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: Virginia J. Maxwell, the Settlor of the Virginia J. Maxwell Living Trust dated November 14, 1997 (the “Trust”), whose date of birth was November 12, 1919, and who lived at 12950 Hutchinson Road, Dowling, Michigan 49050, died November 20, 2011. Creditors of the Settlor are notified that all claims against the Trust will be forever barred unless presented to Eldon Main and Thea Main, the Successor Co-Trustees of the Trust at 12895 S. Hutchinson Road, Dowling, Michigan 49050 within 4 months of the date of publication of this notice. Date: February 10, 2012 Stephen L. Simons P33047 One West Michigan Avenue Battle Creek, MI 49017 (269) 966-3000 Eldon Main and Thea Main 12895 S. Hutchinson Road Dowling, MI 49050 77565863 (269) 758-3409 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Robert L. Wood, a married man Sylvia J. Wood, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Independent Mortgage Company, Mortgagee, dated November 10, 2010, and recorded on November 22, 2010 in instrument 201011220010916, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Independent Bank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-Seven Thousand Eighty-Eight and 78/100 Dollars ($167,088.78), including interest at 4.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 8, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Assyria, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The East 1/2 of the West 1/2 of the West 1/2 of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 3, Town 1 North, Range 7 West, Assyria Township, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #395895F01 77565730 (02-09)(03-01) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Brian M. Schaefer, a Married Man and Sara M. Schaefer, His Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Independent Mortgage Co. Central MI, Mortgagee, dated March 15, 2004, and recorded on March 22, 2004 in instrument 1123968, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Independent Bank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety Thousand One Hundred Sixty-Eight and 07/100 Dollars ($90,168.07), including interest at 5.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 8, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 70 of Aben Johnsons Addition Number 2 to the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 4 of Plats, Page 2, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #385630F03 77565760 (02-09)(03-01) FORECLOSURE NOTICE (ALL COUNTIES) AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTIFY (248) 362-6100 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by Lucy Tobias, unmarried woman of Barry County, Michigan, Mortgagor to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Mortgage Investors Corporation it’s successors and assigns dated the 19th day of April, 2011, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, for the County of Barry and State of Michigan, on the 27th day of April, 2011, in Instrument No. 201104270004556 of Barry Records, which said mortgage was assigned to GMAC Mortgage, LLC , thru mesne assignments, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, for principal of $87,905.85 (eighty-seven thousand nine hundred five and 85/100) plus accrued interest at 3.00% (three point zero zero) percent per annum. And no suit proceedings at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to the statue of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on, the 1st day of March, 2012, at 1:00:00 PM said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI, Barry County, Michigan, of the premises described in said mortgage. Which said premises are described as follows: All that certain piece or parcel of land situate in the Township of Rutland, in the County of Barry and State of Michigan and described as follows to wit: Situated in the Township of Rutland, County of Barry and State of Michigan: Lot 19 and 20 of Pine Haven Estates, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats on Page 95. Commonly known as: 1589 Pinedale Dr Tax Parcel No.: 13-195-001-20 The redemption period shall be six months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: February 2, 2012 By: Foreclosing Attorneys Attorney for Plaintiff Weltman, Weinberg & Reis Co., L.P.A. 2155 Butterfield Drive Suite 200-S Troy, MI 48084 WWR# 10086435 (02-02)(02-23) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Casey S Wolfe, A Single Man and Shelley L Hendrick, A Single Woman to First Security Savings Bank FSB, Mortgagee, dated December 14, 1995 and recorded December 18, 1995 in Liber 647 Page 619 Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage was assigned through mesne assignments to: CitiMortgage, Inc., by assignment dated December 2, 2008 and recorded December 8, 2008 in Instrument # 200812080011636 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Forty-Four Thousand Eight Hundred Twenty-Seven Dollars and Eight Cents ($44,827.08) including interest 8.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on March 15, 2012 Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: North one half of Lots 4, 5, 6, Block 8 Eastern Addition; also South 10 feet Lot 3 and South 10 feet of West one half of Lot 2 Block 8 Eastern Addition City of Hastings. Commonly known as 413 S East Street, Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 2/16/2012 CitiMortgage, Inc., Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-55888 (0277565950 16)(03-08) NOTICE OF JUDICIAL FORECLOSURE SALE Andrew J. Thomas TROTT & TROTT, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy., Ste. 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE IF YOU ARE A BORROWER ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTENTION PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the circuit court at the request of the plaintiff. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest, as determined by the court. Barry County Circuit Court Case No. 10-618-CH NOTICE OF JUDICIAL SALE JUDICIAL SALE IN PURSUANCE and by virtue of a Judgment of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on the12th day of January, 2012, in a certain cause therein pending, wherein HSBC Mortgage Services, Inc., was the Plaintiff and Jeff Schantz was the defendant. The aforementioned judgment established a debt owing to plaintiff in the amount of $127,979.10, plus post-judgment interest at an annual rate of 8.125 % and other amounts recoverable pursuant to said judgment. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that in order to satisfy said judgment, in whole or in part, the property described below shall be sold at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, located at 220 W. State St., Hastings, Michigan (that being the building in which the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held) on Thursday the 29th of March, 2012 at 1 pm, local time. On said day at said time, the following described property located in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, shall be sold: The West 1/2 of Lots 1302 and 1303 of the City, Formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof. Tax Parcel ID: 08-55-201447-00 More commonly known as: 227 W South Street REDEMPTION PERIOD IS SIX MONTHS. Dated: February 9, 2012 Mark Sheldon Deputy Sheriff For more information please call 248-6422515. Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys for Plaintiff 31440 Northwestern Hwy., Ste. 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 File No. 329389L02 (02-09)(03-22) Synopsis HOPE TOWNSHIP Special Board Meeting February 7, 2012 Board members present: Albert, Peake, Messelink, Tonkin. Approved: Agenda Appointing Clerk Pro Tem Previous minutes Appointing Deborah Jackson to Clerk Vacancy Expenses for Clerk support & training Hourly pay policy Adjourned 9:14 p.m. Arlene Tonkin, Clerk Pro Tem Attested to by Patricia Albert, Supervisor 77565870 SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by AMON D. SMITH and KAYSIE SMITH, HUSBAND AND WIFE, to FIRST PLACE BANK, Mortgagee, dated December 21, 2006, and recorded on December 27, 2006, in Document No. 1174400, and assigned by said mortgagee to GMAC Mortgage, LLC successor by merger to GMAC Mortgage Corporation, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Forty-One Thousand Twenty-Seven Dollars and Fifty-Eight Cents ($141,027.58), including interest at 6.500% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on March 15, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: COMMENCING AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF SECTION 7, TOWN 1 NORTH, RANGE 7 WEST, ASSYRIA TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN; THENCE SOUTH 00 DEGREES 36 MINUTES 31 SECONDS EAST ALONG THE EAST LINE OF SAID SECTION 2386.71 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE CONTINUING SOUTH 00 DEGREES 36 MINUTES 31 SECONDS EAST ALONG SAID EAST LINE 220.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES 53 MINUTES 50 SECONDS WEST 777.71 FEET TO THE CENTERLINE OF CASE ROAD; THENCE 221.29 FEET ALONG SAID CENTERLINE AND THE ARC OF A CURVE TO THE RIGHT WHOSE RADIUS MEASURES 2000.00 FEET AND WHOSE CHORD BEARS NORTH 01 DEGREES 15 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST 220.05 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 89 DEGREES 53 MINUTES 50 SECONDS EAST 780.37 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. GMAC Mortgage, LLC successor by merger to GMAC Mortgage Corporation Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 GMAC.004320 (0277565960 16)(03-08) THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Ronald D. Catrell, Ragene Catrell, husband and wife, to Fifth Third Mortgage - MI, LLC, Mortgagee, dated May 20, 2005 and recorded May 24, 2005 in Instrument Number 1147007, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Fifth Third Mortgage Company by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Seventy Thousand Seventy-Eight and 39/100 Dollars ($270,078.39) including interest at 3% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on MARCH 1, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 22 of Pennasee Park, according to the recorded plat thereof, Also Commencing Northwest corner said Lot 21; thence North 17 degrees 38 minutes 07 seconds West 10.00 feet along Northerly EXT of West line of said lot to North line platted alley; thence North 69 degrees 41 minutes 77 seconds East 52.52 to the point of beginning; thence North 01 degrees 06 minutes 28 seconds West 80.28 to centerline Gun Lake Road; thence Southeasterly along said centerline to a point lying 64.75 feet North 71 degrees 39 minutes 48 seconds West from intersection of centerline Gun Lake Road and platted alley of Pennassee Park; thence South 13 degrees 54 minutes 32 seconds West 39.91 to North line said platted alley; thence Northwesterly along North line said platted alley to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: February 2, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 200.8678 77565563 (02-02)(02-23) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by James Orns, an unmarried man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated October 29, 2008, and recorded on November 5, 2008 in instrument 200811050010765, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Flagstar Bank, FSB as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-One Thousand Five Hundred Ten and 49/100 Dollars ($121,510.49), including interest at 6.99% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 8, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Beginning at the South 1/4 post of Section 9, Town 1 North, Range 8 West; thence East parallel with the centerline of East Bristol Road, a distance of 179 feet; thence North at right angles for East Bristol Road 395 feet; thence West parallel with the centerline of East Bristol Road 220 feet; thence South to a point 41 feet West of the South 1/4 post of said Section 9, 395 feet; thence East 41 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #385076F01 77565749 (02-09)(03-01) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Randy Kill, a single man and Jennifer Wooliever, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 19, 2003, and recorded on August 21, 2003 in instrument 1111566, and assigned by said Mortgagee to EverBank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Seven Thousand Nine Hundred Seventeen and 69/100 Dollars ($97,917.69), including interest at 5.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 15, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Baltimore, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Southwest corner of Section 4, Town 2 North, Range 8 West, Baltimore Township, Barry County, Michigan; running thence North 744 feet along the West line of Section 4; thence East 455.2 feet for the true place of beginning; thence North 176 feet parallel with said West line of Section 4,; thence East 344.4 feet, more or less, to the center of South Bedford Road (M-37); thence South 09 degrees 19 minutes East 178.35 feet along the center of Highway; thence West 372 feet, more or less, to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 16, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #394097F01 77565865 (02-16)(03-08) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 16, 2012 — Page 13 Hastings Exchange Club announces February Young Citizens Hastings Middle School Young Citizens for February are (from left) Tyler Cheeseman, Assistant Principal Mark Martin, Justice Lamance, Adam Shaeffer, Abagail Czinder and Nathan Meyers. WOODLAND TOWNSHIP BOARD OF REVIEW Ellie Youngs (left) and Cameron Ertner, pictured here with teacher Alice Gergen, are the Young Citizens for February at Northeastern Elementary School. Named Young Citizen for February at Central Elementary School is Kassaundra Warner, joined here by teacher Michele Benningfield. SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN 77565806 NOTICE OF ZONING ORDINANCE ADOPTION 77565856 Cody Dunn (left) and Brea Madden are Southeastern’s Young Citizens for February. They are joined by teacher Trisha Kietzman. Woodland Township Board of Review will meet at the Woodland Township Hall, 156 S. Main St., Woodland, Michigan on March 6, 2012 to receive and review the assessment roll. Public meetings to hear assessment appeals will be held Monday, March 12, 2012 from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon and 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm; also on Tuesday, March 13, 2012 from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm and from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Appointments are not necessary but will be taken and given preference. For appointments call 269-367-4915 (office) or 269-367-4214 (home). Answering machine messages returned ASAP. The tentative ratios and the estimated multipliers for each class of real property for 2012 are as follows: Ratio Multiplier Agricultural 59.42 .8415 Commercial 62.55 .7994 Industrial 58.64 .8527 Residential 56.01 .8927 Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Supervisor 7 days prior to the meeting by writing or calling Dave Bursley, 156 S. Main St., Woodland, Michigan 48897; 269-367-4915 (office) or 269-367-4214 (home). Pursuant to the provisions of Public Act 110 of 2006, as amended, notice is hereby given that the Barry County Board of Commissioners has adopted the following Ordinance which amends the Barry County Zoning Ordinance of 2008 in the following manner: The Zoning District Map has been amended as follows: Be in the know before you go Star Elementary School’s Young Citizens for February are Blake Walther (left) and Kaleb Micklatcher with teacher Julie Carlson. St. Rose sixth graders Joel Shinavier and Emma Shea are the Young Citizens for the month of February at St. Rose School. They are joined by teacher Amy Murphy. by Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist We’re in the dead of winter. When severe weather strikes, parents of young children are well aware that they need to check for school closings as they prepare for the day. But sometimes inclement weather can be severe enough to close down government buildings and offices as well — including Social Security. If the weather outside is frightful, you should check our website before making a trip to a Social Security office. The place to go to find out about emergency office closings is www.socialsecurity.gov/emergency. Social Security’s office closings and emergency page provides information on specific offices that are closed due to weather and emergencies, as well as reminders about upcoming federal holidays during which government offices are closed. The website also offers a link to a comprehensive list of federal holidays throughout the year. To the right side of the page, you’ll find resources from other government agencies, such as the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the National Weather Service. They can help you to prepare for weather emergencies before they happen. If you’d like to be alerted to office closings, that’s easy to do. Just visit www.socialsecurity.gov/emergency and subscribe to the page by selecting the “Get email updates” link next to the red envelope. Then you’ll get an email alert any time there is a change, such as an office closing. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. ORDINANCE NO: A-1-2012 From RL (Residential Lake) to MU (Mixed Use) - (Shaded Area) This map is a portion of the Official Zoning Map of Orangeville in Barry County, Michigan. Legal Description: Lots 1, 2 & 3 of Chateau Park Plat and also Commencing 238.5 ft East of the West _ post, Section 5-2-10, th S 39°54’ E 403.6 ft to POB, which is one traverse line of Gun Lake; th S 39°54’ E 60 ft., th S 49°44’ E 131 ft, th S 57°42’ E 200 ft, th S 71°24’ E 200 ft, to end of traverse line, th S 01°06’ W 425.4 ft, th N 68°23’ W 225 ft, th N 65°55’ W 173.3 ft, th S 04°10’38” E 172.89 ft, th N 59°10’ W 274.5 ft, th N 54°12’ W 328.5 ft, th E 50 ft, th N 28°11’ E 50 ft, th N 28°11’ E 129 ft, th N 19°44’ E 159.6 ft, th N 53°36’ E 254.5 ft to traverse line on Gun Lake and point of beginning. Intending to extend to from the traverse line to the shore of Gun Lake. Orangeville Township Date February 14, 2012 Craig Stolsonburg, Chairperson Barry County Board of Commissioners Pamela A. Jarvis, Clerk Barry County Published Date: February 16, 2012 The above named ordinance becomes effective February 23, 2012. Copy of this ordinance is available for purchase or inspection in the Barry County Planning Office at 220 W. State St., Hastings, Michigan between the hours 8:00 A.M. - 5 P.M. (closed between 12-1 p.m.), Monday thru Friday. Please call (269)945-1290 for further information. �Page 14 — Thursday, February 16, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Gun Lake Winterfest events begin tomorrow by Casey Cheney Staff Writer Weather will not stop Gun Lake Winterfest which returns Friday, Feb. 17, through Sunday, Feb. 19. Unseasonable warmth and below-average snowfall have complicated a few preparations for the annual festival, but the organizing committee has determined to proceed, with just a few alterations. “Mother Nature isn’t cooperating, but we’re going to do our best to make it a fun event,” said Tom Wilt, executive director at the YMCA of Barry County, which sponsors the Ice Tee golf, one of the events that is being altered this year. Though there may be no ice in which to carve an area for the popular polar dip, the icy cold water temperature will remain, and so will the event. If the ice is determined unsafe, those brave enough to make the dive can get a running start on shore and make a splash into the refreshing ice water. To register for the polar dip, which is Saturday, call 269-945-2454 or sign up at the Allegan County Park, between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. A limited number of T-shirts will be available. The ice fishing event faces a similar dilemma. Rather than trying to replicate the age-old miracle of walking on water, children will be ferried to the ideal fishing spots by boat. The fishing contest began Saturday, Feb. 11. To register, call Rosie, 269-672-5371. The schedule for these events has not changed. The Ice Tee golf competition will go on, but will instead be on land, with a few twists. Wilt said they haven’t publicized the event, which, in previous years has taken place right on the lake, but still they have had more than 40 people sign up. And he doesn’t want to let them down. Steve VanderKam, owner of Gun Lake Miniature Golf and Driving Range, agreed to provide his facilities for the event, which starts at 10 a.m. at the intersection of M-179 and Payne Lake Road. Wilt said this version of Ice Tee will look something like nine holes of putting and nine holes of “creative chipping” on the driving range. Two teams — each consisting of two members — are then assigned to a hole, which they would play out like a typical round of 18 holes. People may register by calling 269-945-4574. Linda Boyce, co-chair of the Winterfest committee, said a limited number of tickets for the comedy show Friday night at the Orchard Hills Golf Course will be sold at the Gearing up for Gun Lake Winterfest are (from left) Linda Boyce and Matt Ribble, Winterfest committee co-chairs; Bob McKenzie participant; Alex Liceaga, broomball competition chair; and Mike Swift, participant. (Photo by Teia Wagenshutz) door on a first-come, first-served basis. Doors for the show open at 8 p.m., with it starting at 9 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, The Bib restaurant will host a wine-tasting event. Admission is $15 per person. The Sand Bar and Grill will host a hot wings eating contest Friday. The challenge: To eat as many wings as possible in 30 minutes. Bay Pointe Inn will have its Create Your Own Pasta Night Friday, featuring all-youcan-eat pasta served from 4 to 9 p.m. The drink special will be sangria. From 5 p.m. Friday to 2 a.m. Saturday, Daisy Mae’s will have a Mardi Gras party opener, complete with gumbo and party favors. Saturday’s events will be ushered in with a pancake breakfast at the Orangeville Township Hall from 7 to 10 a.m. Baked goods also will be offered for sale during breakfast, provided by the GFWC Gun Lake Women’s Club. If folks are too full to walk, the trolley will be running, starting at 10 a.m., providing free rides between venues until 5 p.m. It will be stopping at the Sand Bar and Grill, Capone’s Chicago Pizza Cafe, Gun Lake Miniature Golf and Driving Range, Daisy Mae’s, The Bib, Allegan County Park, the Store at South Shore and Bay Pointe Inn. Anyone who wants to begin the day with a more physical challenge is invited to join in the Snow Stomp, a four-mile trail race that takes place on the Deep Lake Trail in the Yankee Springs Recreation Area. Call 616808-7800 for more information. The broomball tournament begins at 9 a.m. Saturday. Call 269-672-5886 to register. Registration for co-ed volleyball begins at 9:30, with games set to begin at 10 a.m. Call 269-366-6402 to register. The Gun Lake Tribe will conduct the opening ceremony on stage at 10 a.m. to officially kick off the festivities. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., visitors can put a friend or family member in “jail” for $1. Those not sure who their true friends are may purchase a $5 button that will keep them out of jail all day. Games and activities for children run from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. inside the Leaders Marine building next to the Allegan County Park parking lot. Games will include prizes. A petting zoo will be set up from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Vendors will be selling a variety of fare, including pizza by the slice and pork sandwiches, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. A chicken drop — which involves a bingo- type board and chicken droppings, not dropping a chicken — will occur at noon, 1, 2 and 3 p.m. Tickets may be purchased at the ticket booths. The Previously Pink Swimsuit Fashion Show will be on stage at 1 p.m. Call 269-9459605 for more information. The Little Miss Snowflake contest will begin at 2 p.m. Call 616-485-7982 to register. Blocks of ice will be formed into sculptures beginning at 2 and 4:30 p.m. Capone’s Chicago Pizza pizza-eating contest will begin at 3 p.m., with $50 gift certificates for the winners. Call 269-795-2535 to register. A main attraction each year is the polar dip, which, though modified, will have plenty of excitement, starting at 4 p.m. A chili cook-off, a family karaoke contest and the 12th annual swimsuit contest will all be Saturday, courtesy of Daisy Mae’s. More information is available at 269-792-9426. Gun Lake businesses will be running specials throughout the weekend and help sponsor many events. Those interested in the barbecue sauce contest and pig roast may call 269-205-2525 for more information. Bay Pointe Inn will feature a prime rib dinner and mystery beer Saturday. Saturday, Capone’s Chicago Pizza Cafe will have a scavenger hunt from 5 to 7 p.m. Folks can meet at the cafe to pick up their lists. Also, the cafe will host a free euchre tournament, limited to 20 couples, from 8 to 10 p.m. Teams wishing to participate should call 269-795-2535 and leave their name and phone number. Sunday, Daisy Mae’s will have its third annual pool tournament at 1 p.m. The Bib will have a music trivia competition starting at 4:30 p.m. Anyone interested may call 269-792-8181 to register. Winners will receive prizes. Not only does Gun Lake Winterfest provide family-fun activities in the middle of winter, it generates revenue for area businesses and raises funds to support the community. Money remaining after expenses for the current and upcoming year have been paid is given to area nonprofit organizations. Boyce said the committee has $1,000 to $1,500 to work with, and distributes donations generally between $300 and $500, depending on that year’s profits and the number of organizations selected. Previous recipients have included Barry County United Way, Red Cross program in Barry County, Lighthouse on the Lake adult drop-in center, the Barry County heating assistance program, Barry County Relay for Life, Orangeville Community Outreach, the Orangeville food pantry Delton Partners in Education, the Karter Post Scholarship and the Gun Lake Women’s Club scholarship program. Each year after Gun Lake Winterfest winds down and numbers are totaled, the committee chooses the recipients and the amount to be distributed. Money is raised through events such as the jail, chicken drop, broomball, volleyball and polar dip. For more information on Gun Lake Winterfest activities, call the Barry County Chamber of Commerce, 269-945-2454. Birds will be counted this weekend Thornapple Players’ musical is this weekend The tufted titmouse is a frequent backyard bird in Michigan in the winter. (Photo by Joey Lounsbury, Connecticut; courtesy Cornell Lab of Ornithology ) The cast of “County Seat — The Musical” includes (kneeling in foreground) Steve Youngs, (first row, from left) Lori Beduhn, Kathy Conklin, Carol Swanson, Susan Van Horn, Shawn Winters, Carol Satterly, (second row) John Texter, Connie Vaughn, Janine Kasinsky, Mike Kasinsky, Peg Hemerling, Dawn Furrow, Norma Jean Acker and Doug Acker. (Absent from photo are Carol Svihl and Laura Gould.) Thornapple Players will perform “County Seat — The Musical” Friday, Feb. 17, and Saturday, Feb. 18. The show will feature Ethel Merman, Judge Judy, witchcraft, murder, Girls’ Night Out and a chili contest to boot. It’s the County Seat meets Broadway. Doors will open at 6 p.m., with appetizers and cash bar available, and the dinner show will begin at 7 p.m. The cost is $30 per person, non-refundable paid reservations only, and seating is limited. Included in the ticket are an appetizer, salad, entree, dessert, coffee, ice tea or soft drink, sales tax, gratuity and the show. “This will be an evening of great food, great entertainment and guaranteed laughs,” said Norma Jean Acker. “This is our sixth year at the County Seat and it has been a wonderful partnership.” Call 269-948-4042 for reservations. See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits As movie-goers watch the stars of the comedy film “The Big Year” in their quest to count birds, some may be motivated to try the hobby for the first time. The annual Great Backyard Bird Count is the perfect opportunity. The event is hosted by Audubon, the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and Canadian partner Bird Studies Canada. The results provide a snapshot of the whereabouts of more than 600 bird species. Anyone can participate in this free event, and no registration is needed. Participants simply watch and count birds for at least 15 minutes on any day of the count — Friday, Feb. 17, to Monday, Feb. 20 — and report the results online at www.birdcount.org, where they can watch as the tallies grow across the continent. To get a more accurate count, participants are asked to report the greatest number of bird species they see at any one time, rather than a cumulative number. For instance, if five blue jays are seen Saturday morning, two in the afternoon and one in the evening, the correct number to report would be five, since it was the most of that species reported at one time. The four-day count typically records more than 10 million observations. “When thousands of people all tell us what they’re seeing, we can detect patterns in how birds are faring from year to year,” said Janis Dickinson, director of Citizen Science at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. “ “The Great Backyard Bird Count is a perfect example of citizen science,” says Audubon Chief Scientist Gary Langham. “Like Audubon’s Christmas Bird Count, volunteers help us with data year after year, providing scientific support that is the envy of many institutions. It’s also a lot of fun.” “We’re finding that more people are taking part in our bird count programs every year — and the more that take part, the better it is for the birds,” says Richard Cannings, senior projects officer for Bird Studies Canada. The 2011 GBBC brought in more than 92,000 bird checklists submitted by participants from across the United States and Canada. Two Barry County ZIP codes — Hastings and Delton — were among the top 20 localities in Michigan for the most checklists sub- mitted. Hastings had 27 participants submit checklists, and Delton, 26. Middleville and Hickory Corners rounded out the top 100 Michigan localities among the 436 reporting. The most common species reported in Hastings were Canada goose, common merganser and dark-eyed junco. Delton participants reported the dark-eyed junco, American goldfinch and black-capped chickadee in the most abundant numbers. The three most reported species in Middleville were the American goldfinch, northern cardinal and black-capped chickadee. The three species most frequently reported in Hickory Corners were the house sparrow, dark-eyed junco and American goldfinch. Other species reported in large numbers in this area in the 2011 count were mourning doves, blue jays, American crow, tufted titmouse, mallard, downy woodpecker, whitebreasted nuthatch, American tree sparrow and mute swan. Species that were more rare but reported included bald eagle, red-tailed hawk, kingfisher, northern flicker, wild turkey, barred owl, pileated woodpecker, cedar waxwing, eastern bluebird and Carolina wren. Participants in Delton reported 46 species, while those in Hastings reported 33 different kinds of birds. One person in Lake Odessa submitted a checklist with just one species: bald eagle. The number reported? One. Altogether, bird watchers across the country identified 596 species with 11.4 million bird observations. Although it’s called the Great Backyard Bird Count, the count extends well beyond backyards. Lots of participants choose to head for national parks, nature centers, urban parks, nature trails or nearby sanctuaries. For more information, including bird-identification tips, instructions, and past results, visit the website www.birdcount.org. Participants can type in a ZIP code and get a checklist of the species that The count also includes a photo contest and a prize drawing for participants who enter their bird checklists online. The Great Backyard Bird Count is made possible in part by sponsor Wild Birds Unlimited. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 16, 2012 — Page 15 POLICE BEAT BEA Kalamazoo man shot in Orangeville Township Barry County Sheriff deputies were dispatched to a reported shooting in Orangeville Township Feb. 13 around 6:48 a.m. According to a press release from the sheriff’s department, a 24-yearold Kalamazoo man was shot in the stomach with a small-caliber weapon. He was transported to Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo where he treated at for nonlife threatening injuries. The incident remains under investigation, and no further information is available. said her friend had kept her from leaving the residence by sitting on her and at one point the friend had placed hands around her throat. She said when she escaped her friend’s grip, she went to her vehicle where her friend climbed into the car so she could not drive. The two woman reportedly wrestled and then went inside, at which time officers arrived. The friend denied assaulting the woman, and said she was trying to keep her intoxicated friend from driving. Both women’s blood-alcohol tests registered .15 percent. Due to the high level of intoxication, the woman wishing to leave was driven home by deputies. The case is open and turned over to the prosecutor’s office. Windows are Teens’ legal lesson broken, but nothing taken begins at library Hastings Police received a complaint of destruction of property at the Hastings Public Library Feb. 9. According to the library administrator, two young males had been to the second floor of the library. After the teens left, staff noted that a sign valued at about $200 had been damaged. The sign had been located in the same area the two subjects. Video tape from the area showed the two, 13- and 14-year-old boys from Hastings, attempting to kick the sign. One teen has admitted to the damage with the second yet to be interviewed. Restitution is expected to be made as part of any formal agreement. Both are expected to be formally charged with malicious destruction of public property. An attempted breaking and entering was reported on Wolf Road in Bellevue. Sheriff deputies talked to a man Feb. 5, who said that when he was cutting wood next to his mother’s house, which is currently vacant, he noticed a light on in the garage. Upon investigation, he also found a garage window was broken. Deputies found another broken window on a separate out building. Both the complainant and his sister looked over the property and noticed nothing missing. The case is closed. Man admits to violence and weed A woman went to the sheriff’s department Feb. 10 to report a handgun missing at her Stimpson Road residence. She said when she went to retrieve the .22 caliber six shooter for practice, the gun was missing. The woman said there was no sign of break-in and nothing else was missing from the home. The gun was entered into Law Enforcement Information Network as stolen. The case is inactive. Hastings officers were called to East Colfax Street Feb. 9 where officers spoke with an alleged victim of domestic violence. Officers learned that two occupants of the home had quarreled, and the victim had allegedly been assaulted two separate times. The victim’s phone was allegedly thrown against a wall and broken. Both said the argument was about one of them getting home late with the family vehicle. While officers interviewed the suspect, an officer noticed what appeared to be a used glass pipe with contents inside. The suspect admitted the pipe was his, and he also possessed a small amount of additional marijuana. The 27-year-old Hastings man was arrested for possession of marijuana and domestic violence. Relative wants more pay for work Hastings Police were dispatched Feb. 12 on a complaint about an assault with a knife. As the officer arrived, he met with a sheriff deputy who was already at the Railroad Street address. The deputy gave a preliminary report on two subjects, one allegedly pulling a knife on the other. The deputy had taken the knife from the suspect and gave it to the Hastings officer. The Hastings officer learned the two suspects were related and one party was dissatisfied with the amount of pay he had received for labor performed for the other. A verbal argument had ensued concerning the work and some tools, when allegedly a knife was pulled from its sheath, accompanied by a verbal threat. The report has been forwarded to the prosecutor’s office for review. Idle snowmobile taken from friend’s house A man reported his Ski-doo snowmobile and trailer missing Feb. 3 to the Middleville office of the Barry County Sheriff’s Department. The man said he had stored several pieces of equipment at a friend’s house on Coburn Road, and only a few people knew about it. He also told deputies the snowmobile was not in running condition, and the vehicle’s hood was still in the yard. He suspected a 30year-old Nashville man. The case is open pending more information. The snowmobile and trailer have an estimated value of $1,200. Woman’s good deed may be punished Someone has expensive taste in scrap Two rowboats, two car engines, a motorcycle, an arc welder and a boat trailer were all reported missing from a Loop Road residence near Middleville. The complainant went the sheriff’s department Feb. 2 to report the more than $11,000 in equipment missing from his garage. He said he suspected no one, but speculated it may have been for scrap metal. No evidence was available at the scene. The case remains open. Door pried, guns stolen from safe A burglary of firearms was reported to sheriff deputies Feb. 7 at a home on North Avenue, south of Hastings. The homeowner reported returning home to find smashed glass and the door open. Deputies checked the scene and found no one inside the home. The knob was missing from the open door, and deputies speculated that a pry bar had been used to gain entrance. A deputy found the pry bar next to an opened gun safe. All guns in the safe were missing, including two rifles and three shotguns valued at $1,000. No prints were found. Other than the pry bar, no other evidence was found. Neighbors saw a mini-van in the driveway around the same time the homeowner was gone. The case is inactive pending additional information. Neighbor borrows and later takes Hastings officers were called to a home on South Hanover Street Feb. 13 on a report of an intoxicated woman allegedly entering a home and taking money from the owner’s purse. The 66-year-old victim said her neighbor had been to her home earlier and borrowed $5. The neighbor returned in the afternoon and pushed her way into the victim’s home, taking money from the victim’s purse taking the victim’s wallet. Officers located the intoxicated woman minutes later hiding in a nearby garage. The woman, 48, was taken into custody for home invasion and assault. The victim’s wallet was located in the area, minus the same amount of cash that was found in the suspect’s hand. Alcohol is believed to be a factor in this incident. The same woman was arrested the previous week for an alcohol-related event several hours after she was released from the Barry County Jail. She is now back in jail. “We all knew about the molestations, but we as siblings didn’t sit around talking about it to one another,” said Teresa, Keiper’s mother. The defense’s next witness was Michelle Creek, Keiper’s aunt. Creek testified that Keiper was more like a brother to her with only five year’s separating them. Ralph Edwards was Creek’s step father. She testified that Edwards had molested her as a child and as a result she suffers from alcoholism. Creek said she and Keiper had discussed the molestations before, and he blamed Edwards for ruining their lives. She said they had spoken about CPS taking her children in January and Keiper was very upset about the situation. Jason Keiper then took the stand as the final witness. Gilbert asked Keiper if he killed Ralph Edwards and Keiper replied, “Yes, I did.” He told Gilbert he had killed Edwards because of the molestations of him and his aunt. Keiper said this happened when he was between the ages of five and six years old. He told the court Edwards took him out in a fishing boat, or in the woods, would start to him and made him perform oral sex and other sex acts, on 10 separate occasions. “It made my feel horrible,” said Keiper. “I was enraged over it.” Gilbert asked about the argument Keiper and Edwards had several days prior to the killing. “I called him a f_____ child molester,” said Keiper. Keiper told Gilbert he was enraged at the time, so enraged he blacked out. He said Edwards was always drunk and disrespectful. Edwards was always making negative comments about Keiper and his family. After all the witnesses had testified, McDowell excused the jury for the evening stating the trial would continue the following morning at 8:15 with closing arguments. On Feb. 14, the prosecution started their closing argument by quoting what Keiper said to police, “I don’t need no f____ lawyer. I hit him up the side of the head with a hammer. I woke him up and asked him where the hammer was, he rolled back over and I hit him in the head.” Evans went on to say the victim was found, by police, in his bed with his head smashed in, with the hammers under the bed exactly where Keiper told the police they would be found. He told the jury that Keiper knew what he did was wrong because he fled the scene to Battle Creek and call his mother to say he was not proud of what he had done. Evans said Keiper, after being found by police, stabbed himself in the neck several times and tried to get police to shoot him. Evans told the jury Keiper stabbed himself in the neck not out of remorse, but because he didn’t want to go to prison. “Number one, Mr. Keiper caused the death of Ralph Edwards, that’s obvious,” said Evans. “He admitted to it to his mother and to you all. “Second, the defendant intended to kill Ralph Edwards. If there is any doubt about that, he hit him in the head with a metal hammer, or hammers, multiple times... he was trying to kill him. “The intent to kill was premeditated...according to his confession, he asked Mr. Edwards where the hammers were before hitting him, and returned to hit him.” “The killing was deliberate, which means he considered the pro and cons of killing.” Evans said there was a lot of time between the time he found out about his aunt’s children being taken away and three days between the argument and the killing. The Prosecutor said Keiper had ample time to think twice about killing Edwards. Then got out of town because, Evans said, he knew what he had done was wrong. The Prosecutor asked the jury to apply common sense to the evidence when deciding a verdict. Evans said Keiper was rational enough to serve his own interests in getting out of town and call his mother. He asked the jury to find the defendant guilty of first degree murder. Gilbert stated in his closing argument “My client killed Ralph Edwards. That’s the bottom line. Jason Keiper killed him.” The defense went on to tell the jury that the Prosecution has the burden of proving every single element of the charge. The defense does not have the burden of proof. A person is innocent until proven guilty. The defense doesn’t have to prove just cause, the prosecutor has to prove there is no just cause. “The Prosecutor seems to think that when you have been raped, when you have been molested, eventually it just goes out of your mind,” said Gilbert. “That’s not a very good view to have as far as rape and child molestation is concerned, when you know the facts. Why do we have sex offender registration?...This stuff stews in you for years. Your innocence has been taken. He was five years old...People you trust are raping you - molesting you.” Gilbert asked if when Edwards made the five-year-old Keiper perform oral sex, did that five year old know it was wrong? “What happens when you are five years old and that happens?” asked Gilbert. “When you get older, people show you how wrong it is, and tell you how wrong it is, you hear about how wrong it is. Think of the humiliation, the shock, the disappointment you have in yourself as you are growing up...My client was destroyed by Ralph Edwards when he was five years old.” The defense talked about the agitated state Keiper was in because of the past molestations of himself and his aunt by Edwards, and the fact that his aunt’s kids were taken away by Child Protected Services. Gilbert spoke about the rerouting of the ambulance from the hospital just miles away in Battle Creek to the hospital in Kalamazoo. An estimated 50-minute trip which gave the Michigan State Police to question Keiper in the ambulance. “Long enough to get a confession,” said Gilbert. “They got him to make numerous statements, numerous statements. “He did snap, and he did kill him. That’s the bottom line, but first degree murder? No. second degree? No. At best, they have voluntary manslaughter... When you wake up in extreme anger because of what happened to you in the past...The guy is an emotional wreck...what must be going through his mind to make him so angry to make him explode like that? At what point would any of us reach that point?” Before McDowell sent jurists to deliberate she instructed them on the law, what constitutes evidence in the case, and their duty to the law. The jury left the court room to discuss the admitted evidence at 9:30 a.m. At 10:50 a.m. the jury came back from deliberation to ask for a copy of the police reports. McDowell told jurists the reports had not been entered into evidence and therefore a copy of the reports could not be provided to them during deliberation. “You have to rely on the testimony of the officers,” said McDowell. The jury came into the court room, around 4:20 p.m., to request a copy of the trial’s transcripts be provided for review. McDowell said there were no transcripts available yet, but could let them listen to select testimony recordings. McDowell allowed the jury to leave at approximately 4:30 p.m. Tuesday afternoon, to return at 8:15 a.m. to listen to recorded testimony. The jury began listening to the recorded testimony of officers and Teresa Keiper on Wednesday morning, Feb. 15. The jury returned to their second day of deliberations at 9:45 a.m. McDowell told Keiper his attorney made a motion for a mistrial and that she would take the motion under advisement until the jury reached a verdict, and address the matter at that time. The jury returned from deliberation, at 10:34 a.m., to find Jason Lee Keiper guilty of the First Degree Murder of his step grandfather Ralph Edwards. McDowell asked if either party would like the jury to be polled. See KEIPER, page 16 COURT NEWS Anthony Raymond Horn, 22, of Hastings was sentenced for larceny $1,000 to $20,000 Feb. 8. Horn was ordered to serve 135 days in jail, with credit for 72 days. He must pay $3,880 in costs and restitution and must serve 36 months on probation. Upon release from jail, he must pay $175 per month toward costs and restitution. He also must obtain employment by July 1. A second charge of larceny $1,000 to $20,000 was dropped. Matthew Mark Hofacker of Delton was sentenced for operating or maintaining a laboratory involving methamphetamines, second or subsequent charge. Hofacker, 33, was ordered Feb. 8 to serve 12 months in jail, with credit for one day served. He must pay $3,198 in costs and serve 36 months of probation; the last six months will be suspended upon successful completion of probation. Hofacker must pay $150 per month after his release from jail, and participate in drug court. A work release was granted. Hofacker must attend Alcoholics Anonymous and cognitive behavior therapy while in jail. He also must complete inpatient treatment upon release and continue AA three times a week. Ronald Todd Young of Plainwell was sentenced Feb. 8 for operating while intoxicated, third offense. Young, 50, was ordered to serve 30 days in jail, with credit for two days served. He must pay $1,688 in costs. His vehicle was immobilized, and a work release was granted; or he can serve time on weekends. A charge of driving recklessly was dropped. Robert Alan Mazei of Kalamazoo was sentenced for operating impaired under the influence of liquor, third offense. Mazei was ordered Feb. 8 to serve 30 days in jail, with credit for one day served. He must serve 15 days of straight time with the remaining 15 days served on weekends. Mazei was ordered to pay $2,698 in costs and serve 24 months on probation. He must pay $150 per month toward costs and continue counseling and Alcoholics Anonymous three times a week. A charge of operating while intoxicated, third offense, was dropped. Brandon Tony Bont of Hastings was sentenced for possession of marijuana, second offense. Bont, 26, was ordered Feb. 8 to serve two days in jail, with credit for two days served. He was ordered to pay $1,448 in costs and serve 18 months on probation. Bont must pay $150 a month toward court assessments. Probation will be terminated upon full payment of assessments. Charges of operating with his license suspended, revoked or denied and unlawful use of a license plate registration or title were dropped. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 For Sale National Ads Business Services AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 ROY HALL’S AUTO DETAILING: 25 years serving Barry County, (269)948-8377. ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is deceptive, fraudulent or might otherwise violate law or accepted standards of taste. However, this publication does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the quality of goods or services advertised. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made in any advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you ask for money in advance of delivery of goods or services advertised. Automotive Business Services RICK TAYLOR’S DETAIL WORKS. Auto cleaning service. Hours: 8am-5pm. (269)948-0958. BOOKKEEPING SERVICES Personal * Self-Employed * Small Business Payroll * Billing Accounts Receivable * Accounts Payable General Ledger Weekly * Monthly * Quarterly * Annually Call today! (269)420-5714 MAXIMUM EFFICIENCYLower emissions. EPA qualified. 97% efficient. Central Boiler Outdoor Wood Furnace. Sale. Call SOS your “Stocking Dealer:, Dutton, MI 616-554-8669 or (616)9155061. Estate Sale HASTINGS BANNER SUBSCRIPTIONS are available for $35 per year in Barry County. Call (269) 9459554. Help Wanted 35 DRIVER TRAINEES NEEDED NOW! Become a driver for Werner Enterprises! Earn $750 per week?! No experience needed! Local CDL Training! Job Ready in 15 days 1-877-649-2697 GREEN LEAF TREE SERVICE is now accepting applications. Must be 18 to apply. Valid Michigan drivers license. Random drug test. New applicants only. Call 269-506-8322. Recreation WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are interested in leasing acreage for this years deer season. Call (269)795-3049 PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 www.mtd-inc.com Coil Technician 3rd Shift Required Experience: Handling steel, setting coils to automatic feeders, unloading (receiving) steel, overhead crane and inventory accuracy. Rigging exp. a plus! Send resume, cover letter & salary history to: Middleville Tool and Die Co. ATTN: Jeffrey Lord - CHRS 1900 Patterson Rd. Middleville, MI 49333 Email: jeffreyl@mtd-inc.com 77565892 Deputies were dispatched Feb. 4 to a Cook Road residence in reference on a report of a domestic assault. A 28-year-old woman had tried to stop her friend from driving home after the two had been drinking. The woman wishing to go home Handgun reported missing KEIPER, continued from page 1 �Page 16 — Thursday, February 16, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Teens Against Tobacco Use leaders Lowell/Caledonia fires 52 make the rounds in Hastings shots at Knights’ net in win Four specially trained Teens Against Tobacco Use teams from Hastings High School completed another year of TATU presentations for Hastings elementary students Friday, Feb. 10. High school leaders gave presentations in the fourth grade classrooms of Northeastern, Central, St. Rose, Southeastern and Star elementary schools. The presentations were designed to be fun, interactive and educational and focused on making the healthy decision to be “tobacco-free.” Fourth graders learned about the harmful chemicals in cigarette smoke, health problems associated with tobacco use, the cost of smoking, and the impact of nicotine on blood vessels. TATU is a program of Barry County Substance Abuse Prevention Services and is funded in part by the Barry Community Foundation, Tobacco Settlement Funds. The TATU teams are members of the Hastings High School Students Against Destructive Decisions Club led by HHS teacher and advisor Kelli Newberry. TATU has been active in Hastings since 2001. In December of 2011, 84 high school leaders from across Barry County participated in a county-wide TATU training. Giving the pig lung demonstration in Amy Oster’s fourth grade class at Central are TATU leaders (from left) Jennifer Feldpausch, Sarah Bannister, Callan Lenz and Oster. FHE boys pull out overtime win over TK TATU leader Tessa Johnson shows some Southeastern fourth grade students a pig lung. Delton Kellogg boys jump Olivet in league standings Delton Kellogg has won five in a row. Olivet has lost three in a row. During that swing the Delton Kellogg varsity boys’ basketball team has passed the Eagles for the top spot in the Kalamazoo Valley Association standings. The Panthers improved to 12-2 in the league with a 59-50 win at Kalamazoo Christian Tuesday. Norm O’Meara drilled four threes and finished with 22 points in the win over the Comets. Delton Kellogg also got 17 points from Ryan Watson and 12 from Mitchell Wandell. O’Meara and Watson had six rebounds each, while Wandell finished with five. Zach Leinaar chipped in six points and three rebounds. Eric Jones led Kalamazoo Christian with 18 points. Lorenzo Hoskin added ten and Brennan Heidema nine. Joshua Feddema had eight points and ten rebounds. Delton started on a 12-4 run at Parchment Friday, and finished with a 55-46 league win. Parchment clawed its way back into the game, tying the contest at 39-39 heading into the fourth quarter. Delton held off Parchment with a 16-7 run in the fourth quarter. O’Meara had three threes in that ballgame, leading Delton with 21 points. Connor Wolschleger added 14 points and Wandell nine. Parchment got 24 points from Brady VanderWeele and 11 from Jalen Boyd. There are four games left on the conference slate for the Delton Kellogg boys, including big match-ups at home against Schoolcraft (Feb. 21) and Olivet (March 1). Delton heads to Galesburg-Augusta this Friday. Olivet is currently 11-3 in the league, a game ahead of Schoolcraft and Kalamazoo Christian. The Unity Knights’ Derek Fredenburg (left) races in to fire a shot in front of Lowell/Caledonia’s Kyle Jansens Friday at Kentwood Ice Arena. (Photo by Perry Hardin) One more victory will secure the Thornapple Kellogg varsity boys’ basketball team a winning regular season. The Trojans are now 10-7 overall and 5-6 in the O-K Gold Conference. They had Tuesday night off, and will return to action at home against Caledonia Friday. Forest Hills Eastern edged the Trojans 6155 in overtime Friday night in Ada. The Trojans moved out to a 15-9 edge in the first quarter, but the Hawks pulled in front in the third and took a 38-36 lead into the fourth quarter. The two teams were tied 49-49 at the end of regulation. Greg Hamilton led TK with 15 points. Brendon Hudson added 11 points for TK, Zac Comeau had ten, and Ben Francisco and Grant Allison chipped in eight each. The Hawks got 18 points from Nick Hopkins, who hit three threes, and 11 points from JoJo Stankowski. KEIPER, continued from page 15 Gilbert requested the poll. Each jury member was asked if the verdict was their true verdict and each agreed it was. Gilbert will argue a motion, scheduled for March 23, for a mistrial based on a partial statement by Trooper Linebaugh. The trooper started to make a statement about the defendant being in prison for 10 years, but was stopped by the prosecution. Any mention of Keiper’s past offenses was not to be mentioned during the trial. Gilbert stated the trooper’s testimony was heard twice, once during live testimony and again during the jury’s review of recorded testimony. A sentencing date will be set after Gilbert’s motion has been heard. Keiper returned to the Barry County Jail. Unity goalkeeper Connor von der Hoff looks to smother the puck during Friday night’s O-K Conference Tier III contest with Lowell/Caledonia at Kentwood Ice Arena. (Photo by Perry Hardin) The Unity Knights got off to a good start Friday. Goalkeeper Connor von der Hoff stopped all 18 shots fired at him by the Lowell/Caledonia boys in the first period of their O-K Conference Tier III contest at Kentwood Ice Arena. Joe Smith netted the only goal of the period to put the Knights in front 1-0. It went downhill from there. von der Hoff saw another 34 shots fly his way over the course of the next two periods. Lowell/Caledonia put seven shots into the net in the second period, to take command of the contest. Lowell/Caledonia got a power play goal from Cam Steger in the first minute of the second period. Jake Rossman would score twice in the second period for Lowell/Caledonia, and his team also got goals from Trevor McCoy, Justin Pinto, Tage Green and Collin Finkhouse. Lowell/Caledonia then ended the game early with goals by Green and Rossman in the third period. von der Hoff finished the game with 43 saves. Ben Smith stopped 13 of the 14 shots that flew his way at the other end for Lowell/Caledonia The victory moved the Lowell/Caledonia team’s conference record to 8-1, and Lowell/Caledonia added a ninth league win Saturday when it topped Jenison 8-6. The Unity Knights fall to 2-10 in the league with the loss. They’re return to action with two non-conference games at the Grand Rapids Edge Ice Arena this weekend. They take on Manistee Friday at 7:45 p.m. and Holt Saturday at 7:00. LHS ladies have won three in a row Lakewood evened its Capital Area Activities Conference White Division record at 4-4 with a 53-46 win Friday at Corunna. The Cavaliers had won seven straight ballgames. It’s the Vikings who are on a threegame winning streak now. Kristin Hilley returned to the line-up Friday, and hit a couple of free throws and a big three of her own in the fourth quarter to help the Vikings hold on for the win. She hit two threes in the game and finished with eight points. The Vikings hit eight threes for the second game in a row. Brooke Wieland remained an offensive threat even with Hilley back. She knocked down three threes and finished with 11 points. Ashley Jemison buried two and finished with ten points, coming up big with King in foul-trouble in the first half. Emily Kutch led the way for the Vikings with 13 points, while Madi King added nine points as well as five rebounds, four assists and three steals. Hannah DeJong didn’t score, but pulled down a team-high nine rebounds. The Vikings also got a big bucket late from Ellie Reynolds that helped secure the win. “The kids really stepped up to the challenge,” said Viking head coach Denny Frost. “We have no business staying with a team with that size and talent, but the toughness of the girls showed tonight. They just wouldn’t be denied. I was really proud of the way they competed.” The Cavaliers start three players over sixfeet tall. Frost was pleased with the defensive effort against them, especially from DeJong, and also with the entire team’s work on the glass. Corunna finished up the game with just a 30-27 rebounding edge. Peyton Birchmeier had a huge night for the Cavaliers, with 19 points and 11 rebounds. Corunna also got 11 points from Morgan Cnudde. Lakewood had ten assists in the game and only eight turnovers. The Vikings are now 8-10 overall this season and 4-4 in the CAAC-White. They knocked off Belding 56-47 in nonconference action on the road Tuesday. Lakewood started the game on a 10-0 run, and led 19-8 after one quarter, but the Redskins never stopped battling. “We lost some of our defensive intensity and got sloppy with the ball and allowed them back in the game,” Frost said. “We gave up too many clean looks and didn’t get to the help side, which hurt us. Belding pulled within 48-44 by the end of the third quarter. Lakewood though limited the Redskins to just one field goal in the fourth quarter to secure the win. “Belding has a young team that doesn’t quit, and we were lucky to get our focus back to hold them off.” King stepped up big for the Vikings, hitting a couple of early threes. She finished the night with 25 points, six steals, two blocked shots and four rebounds. Foul trouble even limited her a bit in the first half. DeJong had ten points and nine rebounds. Kutch also had nine boards, to go with her 13 points. “We played in spurts tonight,” Frost said. “It was one of those games when things don’t always go your way. This would have been a loss early in the season. I told them after the game it is better to win when we play bad. We are getting different people stepping up each game, which has been a key to our success. “I’m really happy for Madi King. She is a tireless worker and it paid dividends tonight.” The Vikings return to action at home Friday against Perry. They’ll close their regular season at Lansing Catholic Feb. 24. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 16, 2012 — Page 17 LHS competitive cheer wins third straight conference title Lakewood got off to a great start Wednesday. The Viking varsity competitive cheer team had its highest score ever in round one at the final Capital Area Activities Conference Blue/White Division Jamboree of the season. The Vikings were just about 13 points better than Corunna in that opening round with a score of 233.1. The Cavaliers scored a 220.4. “We nailed that round. The girls performed it extremely well and the scores showed,” said Lakewood head coach Kim Martin. That turned out to be the difference as the Vikings finished off a sweep of the three league jamborees to clinch their third conference championship in a row. Lakewood finished the night with a score of 732.0786. Corunna was second with a total score of 719.3800, followed by Lansing Catholic 716.3144, Portland 672.5842, Williamston 648.8520 and Grand Ledge 645.9952. The Vikings also had the highest round two score of the evening, a 208.2786, then added a 290.7 in round three. Corunna finished off the night with a 203.7800 in round two and a 295.2 in round three. Lansing Catholic was in second place after the first two rounds, outscoring Corunna with a 221.9 in round one and a 204.1144 in round two. The Cougars then added a 290.3 in round three. “We need to work on cleaning up our rounds two and three before districts at Allegan next weekend, but the team is very confident and working extremely hard.” The Vikings’ Division 3 District Tournament will be held at Allegan High School Saturday, beginning at 5 p.m. Lakewood will be one of three teams ranked in the top ten in the state in Division 3 which will be a part of the tournament at Allegan. The Vikings are currently ranked tenth. They’ll be joined by No. 9 Otsego and No. 5 Paw Paw. The top four teams at the district advance to the regional round of the state tournament. Lakewood boys score their first non-conference victory Lakewood’s varsity boys’ basketball team scored win number three Tuesday, knocking off visiting Belding in non-conference action 53-48. The Vikings trailed by four points heading into the fourth quarter, 41-37. “We kept fighting and working defensively,” said Lakewood head coach Mark Farrell. “We executed our set plays in the fourth and hit our free throws down the stretch.” The Vikings are now 3-13 this season. Jordan Cooper led the way for the Vikings, with 21 points, five rebounds and three steals. Lakewood also got 11 points from David Parks and ten from Jacob Buehler. Adam Barker had five points, as well as a team-high six assists. The Vikings only turned the ball over six times all game. Belding, which built its lead with a 17-12 run in the opening quarter, got 16 points from Andrew Leppink, 14 from Ronald VanDyke and 13 from Brendan Zuver. It was the first non-conference win of the season for the Vikings. Lakewood is 2-6 in the CAAC-White. Corunna topped the Lakewood boys in Corunna Friday night, 59-51. The Vikings got in a little bit of a hole early again, and had to try and dig their way out in the second half. The Cavaliers put up 19 points in the opening quarter, and eventually built a 31-20 halftime lead. MJ Myles had 16 points to lead the way for the Cavaliers, while Mikhail Myles added 13 points and Mitchell Poirier had 12. Lakewood got 21 points from Cooper, who hit two threes and seven free throws in the contest. Spencer Palmer added 12 points and Barker eight for Lakewood. The Vikings will be at home against Perry for another league contest Friday. Hastings record even at 8-8 with loss at South Christian South Christian broke a 40-40 tie with a 19-10 run in the fourth quarter to top the Hastings’ varsity boys’ basketball team in Grand Rapids Friday. The teams were back and forth throughout the evening, with the Sailors building a 10-6 lead in the opening quarter, then the Saxons pulling within one at 24-23 by the half. Maxwell Clark had a big night for the Saxons, hitting four threes and finishing with 20 points. The Saxons also got eight points from Eric Hart and six each from Danny Buehler, Luke Heide and Travis Sixberry. South Christian’s Jordan Mulder matched Clark’s performance, hitting four threes of his own and also finishing with 20 points. The Sailors also got nine points from Jordan Vanderwall and seven each from Kyle Kwaske, Brandon Haan and Seth VanEngen. Hastings is now 8-8 overall and 3-8 in the O-K Gold Conference. The Saxons will be home for their next three ballgames, against Ottawa Hills Friday and Wayland Tuesday. Feb. 28, the Saxons will be home against Forest Hills Eastern. The Hastings Middle School ‘Gold’ wrestling team went 4-0 to win this weekend’s tournament in Ionia. The Saxons defeated Greenville in the championship match, with Hastings winning on criteria after a 54-54 tie. HMS Gold team wins Ionia tourney The Hastings Middle School Gold wrestling team won this weekend’s Ionia Tournament with a perfect 4-0 record. The Saxons knocked off Greenville in the finals in a dual that came down to the criteria after a 54-54 tie. Hastings Gold also defeated Portland 87-16, Williamston 70-31 and Fowlerville 78-30. Danny Hooten, Chase Reaser, Kenny Redman, Drew Westworth, Tony Tompson and Tyler Youngs from the Gold team were all 4-0 on the day. Wrestlers from the Gold team finishing with three wins were Austin Healy, Mitchell Sarhatt, Justice Lamance, John Hasty, and Sam Cappon. Jon Cook, Tommy Patterson, George Murphy and Colton Dillon had two wins each, and Will Green, Sam Johnson and Ray Johnson had one win The Saxon Blue team was 2-2, losing a 5454 match on criteria to Thornapple Kellogg and a 75-27 match with Greenville to start the day. The Blue team then defeated Ionia 66-42 and Fowlerville 54-47. The Blue team finished fifth in the final DK girls suffer a third KVA defeat The Panthers’ KVA destiny isn’t in their own hands anymore. A five-point loss at Parchment Friday dropped Delton Kellogg’s varsity girls’ basketball team into a tie with the Parchment Panthers for second place in the league standings behind Olivet. Delton Kellogg’s girls rebounded with a win Tuesday, topping Kalamazoo Christian in Delton 38-34, but it wasn’t a pretty win. “Ugly, ugly, ugly, ugly, ugly for us, largely in part of because of what Kalamazoo Christian did to us,” said Delton Kellogg head coach Mike Mohn. Delton Kellogg jumped out to a 13-4 start against the Comets, but then saw Kalamazoo Christian rally over the next two quarters. The Comets led 30-27 heading into the fourth quarter. “The fourth quarter, we came out and things got a little settled and we started to move the ball like we should,” said Mohn. “We outscored them 11-4. We were behind the whole second half. We took the lead with 1:50 left. We went up 35-34, then we ran off four straight points. “Frustrating, but still a win.” Adrianna Culbert led Delton with 11 points and seven rebounds. Mohn said she played with unbelievable passion in the Panthers’ fourth-quarter rally. Mallory Sewell added eight points and eight rebounds. “Alea Hammond did not score, but she was probably as involved in a basketball game as I’ve seen a kid who didn’t score,” Mohn said. “She took some good shots, didn’t fall, which was unfortunate for her. It was probably one of the best games I’ve seen her play. Hammond provided the spark for the Panthers in the comeback, along with Culbert and Rachel Parker. Brooke Martin added nine points and Andrea Polley seven. “It was dire straights right up until that last couple minutes,” Mohn said. “We pressed and got back into it, got some steals and got some free throws.” Kalamazoo Christian got eight points from Steph VanderLugt and seven each from Colleen Snyder and Ashley Balkema. The Delton girls tried to rally in the fourth quarter Friday too, but it was too late in a 5045 loss to Parchment. Parchment went on a 12-6 run in the second quarter to build a 25-16 half-time lead, then added to the lead to make it 37-25 heading into the fourth quarter. The Delton girls outscored Parchment 2013 in the third quarter. Culbert had 17 points and Polley ten in the BOWLING SCORES TK/Hastings swimmers edge Tuesday Night Mixed Boyce Milk Haulers 65-31; Hurless Machine Shop 59.5-36.5; Hometown Lumber 57.5-28.5; Barry County Red Cross 51-41; JBar Antique Tractors 35-61; Dirt Broke 16-76. Men’s Good Games and Series - G. Hause 208-555; M. Burd 181; D. Kiersey 178; D. Blakely 177. Women’s Good Games and Series - B. Wilkins 166; M. Majava 164-416; B. Ramey 154; D. Service 153. Sunday Night Mixed You’re Up N Shit 55; Eastsiders 50; Straightliners 46; Sandbaggers 45 1/2; Street Bowlers 45; Rollin Olins 42 1/2; Sunday Snoozers 40. Women’s Good Games and Series - J. Rice 187-494; M. Olin 158-426; C. Larsen 159-416; J. Healy 168-386; A. Hubbel 167; C. Demott 133. Men’s Good Games and Series - S. Olin 214-598; B. Allen 190-534; R. Snyder 242; M. Snyder 205; B. Hubbell 201; E. Rice 184; B. Heath 168; T. Demott 146. Tuesday Trios Rollarama 67-26; CB’s 60-36; Lu’s Team 55-41; Look Insurance 55-41; Shirlee’s Team 54.5-41.5; Blair Landscaping* 48-44; Twisted Sisters 47-49; Team Turkey 44-52; Classic 3 43-53; Coleman Agency* 42-51; Trouble 3759; Ghost Team 12.5-83.5. Blair Landscaping and Coleman Agency need to make up a game. High game and series - N. Shaw 168; S. Cross 118-321; D. Hunt 166-480; S. McKey 214-579; P. Ramey 187-506; D. Clark 152340; L. Potter 203-547; S. Burd 142-358; B. Breightner 174; C. Etts 131-362; T. Thompson 189-503; A. Trumble 136-365; L. Scurlock 156. Monday Mixerettes NBT 52.5-39.5; Dean’s Dolls 51.5-40.5; Kent Oil 51.5-40.5; Nashville Chiropractic 42.5-49.5; Dewey’s Auto Body 42-46; James Process Service 32-56. Good games and series - T. Shaeffer 188; S. Dunham 169; P. Fowler 160-450; K. Fowler 181; B. Anders 169; S. Nash 151; E. Ulrich 168; J. Alflen 183; J. Rice 171-484; K. Eberly 190-534; D. Snyder 187. Senior Citizens Butterfingers 155-37; Just Having Fun 53.5-38.5; Kuempel 51-41; Three Gals and a Guy 47-45; M&M’s 46-46; Usedtobe #1 4646; Early Risers 45-47; King Pins 43-49; Sun Risers 42.5-49.5; Ward’s Friends 31-61. Women’s good games and series - G. Scobey 172; J. Gasper 209-563; Y. Markley 167-439; R. Pitts 156-379; N. Boniface 164; G. Meaney 203-507; B. Maker 203-551; P. Shellington 163; B. Benedict 159-420; M. Wieland 167. Men’s good games and series - L. Markley 155-448; W. Talsma 196-496; C. Purdum Sr. 190-546; W. Mallekoote 171; G. Forbey 171451; K. Schantz 167; M. Saldivar 181; C. Atkinson 184; H. Gibson 182. Wednesday PM Mills Landing 61-31; Four Pals 52.5-39.5; The River 52-40; Eye & ENT 51-41; Hair Care* 47.5-40.5. * games to be made up Good games and series - G. Scobey 158453; P. Fowler 152; L. Elliston 183; T. Christopher 179; S. Beebe 175; B. Hathaway 181-466; G. Maney 176-420. Saturday Majors (Youth League) Strikers 41-23; Leones 40-24; Zombies 30.5-33.5; Hastings Bowl 30.5-33.5; Whatever 26.5-33.5; Great Balls of Fire 20.543.5. Girls good games and series - S. Gross 104-238. Boys good games and series - T. Cheeseman 121; K. Kenyon 129; J. Thompson 156; J. Elliott 104-293; M. Brown 150; J. Johnson 151-381; J. Ulrich 146-358. standings. Derek High, Quentin Wigg and Luke Leinaar from the Blue team were all 4-0. Wrestlers with three wins each were Cal Cappon, Lindsey Kuhlman and Dakota Briggs. Finishing the day with two wins were Olivia Barrett, Brandon Frederick, Billy Smith, Noah Lumbert, Devin Planck, Jacob Dunn and John Branham. Jacob Baldry, Trevor Ryan and Austin Haywood had one win each.. Ottawa Hills by seven points The Thornapple Kellogg/Hastings varsity boys’ swimming and diving team pulled out a 93-86 O-K Rainbow victory over Ottawa Hills in Hastings Thursday. Both teams won six events in the dual, with the Trojan relay team of Zack Zwiernikowski, Craig Gagnon, Levi Ryfiak and Daegen Mix taking the 200-yard medley relay to start the evening in 1 minutes 51.92 seconds. That was the only relay the TK/Hastings team would win though. Levi Ryfiak would add two individual wins for TK/Hastings, winning the 200-yard individual medley in 2:21.86 and the 100-yard butterfly in 1:01.11. TK/Hastings also had Nate Ryfiak win the diving competition with a score of 155.75. The Bengals won the three events after the diving competition, a string that was broken by the Trojans winning the final two individual events of the night. Zwiernikowski won the 100-yard backstroke in 1:07.12 and Gagnon took the 100-yard breaststroke in 1:12.29. Gerrit Beltman and Robert Pall won two individual events each for Ottawa Hills. Beltman took the 500-yard freestyle in 5:43.66 and the 200-yard freestyle in 2:07.12 Pall won the 50-yard freestyle in 23.81 seconds and the 100-yard freestyle in 53.30. Those two also led the Bengals to wins in the two freestyle relays. They teamed with Andrew Lowe and Nathan Sherman to win the 200-yard freestyle relay in 1:41.30 and with Lowe and Isaac Lagrand to win the 400yard freestyle relay in 3:47.96. Trojans win conference cheer title for third time in four years Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity competitive cheer team cleaned up its third round and that helped the Trojans to a nearly 20-point victory at the O-K Gold Conference finale. The Trojans won their second straight conference title, and third in the last four years, by scoring a 744.4240 at Grand Rapids Catholic Central High School Wednesday. Hastings, which won the only league jamboree the Trojans didn’t this season, finished second with a score of 724.8754, followed by Wayland 718.6824, Catholic Central 705.8584 and Caledonia 659.3930. The Trojans led the Saxons by less than three points heading into the final round, but outscored them 309.1 to 292.1 in that third round. Hastings was actually fourth in that final round, as Wayland scored a 306.3 and Catholic Central a 301.6. TK started the evening with a 220.5 in round one and a 214.8240 in round two. Hastings had a 214.9 in round one and a 217.8754 in round two, which was the top score in round two. Caledonia’s girls scored a 209.5 in round one, a 192.6930 in round two and a 257.2 in round three. loss. Parchment got 24 points from Lizzie Tecca and ten from Kendyl Hinton. Delton Kellogg’s girls are now 14-3 overall this season, and 12-3 in the KVA. The Panthers are on the road for their next two ballgames, at Galesburg-Augusta Friday and Schoolcraft Tuesday. Saxon girls go for second win over Bengals Friday The Hastings varsity girls’ basketball team fell to 1-16 overall and 1-10 in the O-K Gold Conference with a 64-24 loss at South Christian Friday night. The Sailors ran out to a 38-14 lead in the first half, holding the Saxons to just four points in the opening quarter. Angelique Gaddy and Jayne Kessel had 13 points each for the Sailors, and McKenzie Diemer added ten points. Hastings got eight points from Taylor Carter and four each from Laken Meade and Kelsi Harden. The Saxons are home Friday against Ottawa Hills. Hastings earned its lone win of the season when it took on the Bengals in Grand Rapids in mid-January. The Saxons follow up that contest with a trip to Wayland Tuesday. TK girls drop close one at Forest Hills The Thornapple Kellogg varsity girls’ basketball team played another close O-K Gold Conference contest Friday, but came out on the losing end of an overtime contest at Forest Hills Eastern, 52-45. TK had to play from behind early, as the Hawks moved out to a 15-9 lead in the opening quarter. The Trojans battled back to force overtime by outscoring FHE 21-15 in the second half. Kelli Graham and Crystal Smith had 15 points each for the Trojans, while Shelby Tedrow chipped in eight points and Erin Ellinger four. Graham did a good job of getting to the free throw line, and knocked down eight of 14 free throw attempts. Smith was 5-of-6 at the line. The Hawks got 16 points each from Taylor Winchester and Rachel Harvey. Winchester had a great night at the free throw line, going 8-of-9. Harvey was 3-of-4 and added three three-pointers. The Hawks also got eight points from Lexi Reninger and five from Abby Winchester. The Trojans were off Tuesday and will return to action at home against Caledonia Friday. TK is now 4-13 overall and 3-8 in the league. �Page 18 — Thursday, February 16, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lakewood wrestlers dominate district tourney by Brett Bremer Sports Editor 146 to 13. That was the combined score of Lakewood’s two victories at the Division 3 District Tournament hosted by Pennfield High School Thursday. The Viking varsity wrestling team clinched the district championship with a 62-13 win over host Pennfield in the finals, after topping a short-handed Olivet team 84-0 in the district semifinals. Pennfield reached the finals with a 45-28 win over KVA rival Delton Kellogg. The young Viking team, which had four freshmen and six sophomores in the line-up Thursday, is still getting better. “I think they’re just picking up movement from the bottom makes things happen,” said Viking head coach Bob Veitch. “We’ve been working stuff and working stuff that they haven’t hit all year long, and all of a sudden they’re hitting granbies that they haven’t hit all year, they’re keeping hand control that they haven’t done all year. “I’m not impressed yet with our takedowns, but we’ve kind of neglected that area honestly right now. We spent a lot more time on mat stuff with tilts and stuff that we’re starting to hit. They were hitting bundles tonight which we practice a lot to set up our cradle. “It’s just somebody sees something, it works and they’re starting to put things together.” Lakewood had six pins and won two matches by forfeit in the dual with Pennfield. In only two of the 12 matches that were wrestled did the Vikings fail to put their opponent on their back at least once. Hyatt got the Vikings off to a good start in the final, pinning Wade Willavize in one minute in the 285-pound match. The Vikings would also get pins from Dylan Shoup at 119 pounds, Austin Kietzman at 125, Dakota Lakewood’s varsity wrestling team celebrates its Division 3 district championship following a 62-13 win over host Pennfield in the district finals Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Greig-Berends at 130, Jordan Bennett at 140, pound bout. Garrett Phelps at 160 and Markus Temple at Lakewood’s Jeremy Innes turned 171. Pennfield’s Zach Burr in each of the three Lars Pyrzinski at 215 pounds and Brandon periods on his way to a 15-0 technical fall at Doran at 112 won by forfeit for the Vikings. 135 pounds. Nick Briggs was the only Viking who wresEven in defeat the Vikings got good matchtled a six minute match and won all evening, es from Austin Gostnell at 103 pounds and topping Austin Clements 7-3 in the 152- Alex Everts at 145. Gostnell was able to fight off giving up a major decision in an 8-1 loss, while Everts avoid giving up a technical fall in a 21-7 loss to Roy Herpin. “Alex Everts, he had their best kid that Herpin kid, and he went a good match where I think a week ago or two weeks ago he would Delton Kellogg’s Matt Durham is wrapped up by Pennfield’s Austin Clements during the first period of their 152-pound match Thursday in the Division 3 District Semifinals at Pennfield High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) have just surrendered and given up on it,” Veitch said. “The attitude change I’ve seen in him and Markus Temple and Phelps has been just a plus for us.” The Panthers’ other winner was Justin Parker, who pinned Ethan Binkowski in the 189-pound match. Delton Kellogg head coach Dan Phillips wasn’t displeased with the way his wrestlers competed in their district semifinal loss to host Pennfield. “We’ve learned how to wrestle as a team,” said Phillips. “At the beginning of the year, coming from middle school, the team concept isn’t as important as it is up here. They’ve learned, we’ve stressed all year long, wrestle as a team, wrestle as a team, wrestle as a team. I think they’ve finally learned to do that. They’re buying in, they’re cheering for their teammates where as before it was the individual mentality. They’re cheering for their teammates. They want each other to do well.” Things didn’t start to well for Delton. Pennfield built a 21-6 lead in the dual with Delton’s only points in the first six weight classes coming from a void at 215 pounds. That run included three Pennfield pins and a 3-0 win for Pennfield’s Wade Willavize over Logan Montes at 285 pounds. Delton got back in the match with pins from Tyler Dempsey and Austin Ketola in the 130 and 135-pound matches, but the Delton kids couldn’t stay off their backs. Pennfield won eight flights in all, seven by pin. “That’s our youth showing,” Phillips said. “The young kids are inconsistent. They’re doing well one minute and the next minute they’re making rookie mistakes. That’s one thing we need to keep working on - eliminating those rookie mistakes. We eliminate those rookie mistakes and we’re going to do some great stuff in the future.” Delton had three pins of its own, tacking on one from Hunter Chilton in the 171-pound match. Delton also had Evan Curtice score a 15-3 major decision in his 160-pound match with Nick Schwarz. The Vikings put together a perfect score, six points in each of the 14 bouts, in the open- er against Olivet. That included seven forfeit wins and two six-point wins where the Eagles were forced to default due to injury. Bennett (140 pounds), Briggs (152), Phelps (160), Pyrzinski (215) and Hyatt (285) won by pin for the Vikings in the match with the Eagles. Temple at 171 pounds and Binkowski at 189 both won matches they were leading when their opponents had to default in the second period. Lakewood is now 24-4 in duals this season. The Vikings were scheduled to face Buchanan in one regional semifinal at Delton Kellogg last night, while Otsego and South Haven made up the other half of the regional bracket. Lakewood and Delton were together again Saturday at their Division 3 Individual District Tournament at Lakewood High School. Tyler Dempsey was the lone Panther to advance to the Division 3 Individual Regional Tournament, which will be held at Otsego High School Saturday. He finished second in the 130-pound weight class, falling 11-5 to Otsego’s Alberto Lopez in the championship match. Dempsey had an opening round bye, then topped Lakewood’s Jeremy Innes 10-2 and Fennville’s Luis Mendoza 7-5 to reach the championship final. Lakewood has six wrestlers moving on, including district champions Hyatt and Bennett. Bennett won the 135-pound weight class, improving to 31-0 on the season, by scoring a 4-2 win over Buchanan’s Jeff Mucha in the final. Bennett pinned each of his first three opponents. Hyatt only had three matches, and scored pins in less than a minute in each match. He stuck Buchanan’s Jimmy DeVlaminck 55 seconds into the 285-pound championship. The Vikings also had 215-pounder Pyrzinski reach the finals. He was second, as he was pinned by Buchanan’s Gage Hutchison 1:12 into their final round match. Lakewood’s Nick Briggs (152 pounds) and Jack Tromp (189) both placed third, and Austin Kietzman (125) was fourth. Delton Kellogg’s Evan Curtice (top) stretches out Pennfield 160-pounder Nick Schwarz during the first period of their match Thursday at Pennfield High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Lions fall apart in second half against Galesburg by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Maple Valley has had little trouble putting together two strong quarters in a basketball game this season. The Lion varsity girls’ basketball team’s has had trouble putting together four though. That’s exactly what happened Tuesday as the Lions built a 21-20 lead in the first half against visiting Galesburg-Augusta. Maple Valley’s Timara Burd fires a shot over Galesburg-Augusta’s Kari Thompson during the second quarter Tuesday night. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The Lions pushed their lead to three with the first bucket of the second half, but were outscored 43-15 in the final 14 minutes of basketball in a 63-38 Kalamazoo Valley Association loss to the Rams. “Give Galesburg credit,” said Lion head coach Landon Wilkes. “They jumped out on us in the third quarter and once they got the tidal wave rolling they just continued to build on top of it.” The Rams took the lead for good on a steal and bucket by Kati Thompson with just under five and a half minutes to play in the third quarter. That basket was a part of a 20-0 run by the Rams. And like on that basket, much of the Rams’ offense started with their defense. “We came out looking to attack,” Wilkes said. “The third quarter, you turn the ball over at half-court you’re going to give up wide open lay-ups. We have to learn to get over the panic of when someone runs at us we have to do the things we’re capable of doing - flashing the middle, flashing hard to the basketball, making basket cuts, doing the things that we were to be successful in the first half.” The Lions attacked the Rams’ press better in the first half. That helped the defense too. Rather than racing back to stop a lay-up, the Lions were able to settle into their zone. With the Rams’ best penetrator, Allie Patterson, on the bench with foul trouble, Maple Valley played right with Galesburg-Augusta. Patterson wasn’t the only girl in foul trouble. The Lions’ Kaitlyn Petersen played much of the second half with four fouls. The teams combined to shoot 74 free throws. The Lions were 21-of-37 at the line, and the Rams 20-of37. Galesburg-Augusta had everyone on its roster score at least one point. Kari Thompson was 5-of-7 at the free throw line and led her team with 17 points. Holly DeLeon chipped in 13 points for the Rams and Julie Repke had six. The Lions fell to visiting Kalamazoo Christian 34-18 Friday. The Comets shut out the Lions in the second quarter, and limited them to just seven points in the first three quarters combined. “We struggled to put the ball in the basket. We struggled to get shots, and when we did they were rushed,” Wilkes said. “Christian plays a zone, an extended zone, and we struggled with that.” He said his team did a lot of passing the ball around the perimeter and not enough attacking the basket. The offensive struggles meant that the Lions couldn’t get their press set up very often, and that didn’t allow them to push the tempo to their liking. The Lions’ own defensive effort wasn’t bad. They limited the Comets to just 13 points in the first half. Kalamazoo Christian led 135 at the break. The Comets got eight points from Brittany Engbers and seven from Ashley Balkema. Petersen led the Lions with four points, and Alivia Johncock and Alicia Ramsey had three each. The Lions did have a good night at the free throw line, going 8-for-8. Maple Valley will make the trip to Schoolcraft Friday. Delton Kellogg cheer team captures conference title Maple Valley guard Alicia Ramsey pushes the ball ahead during the second quarter of her team’s KVA contest with Galesburg-Augusta Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Maple Valley got 12 points from Timara Burd, who was 6-of-11 at the free throw line. Petersen added ten points, going 6-for-6 at the line. Zoanne Siple chipped in six points for the Lions. The Lions had just eight field goals in the game, and only three in the second half. Maple Valley is now 4-13 overall and 3-12 in the KVA this season. Schoolcraft caught the Delton Kellogg girls in round three, but nobody was catching the Panthers in the standings. Delton Kellogg’s varsity competitive cheer team won its second Southern Michigan Competitive Cheer Conference championship in three years by winning the league championship meet at Schoolcraft Saturday. The Panthers finished the day with a score of 659.5320, more than 25 points ahead of the runner-up Eagles who finished with a score of 634.3000. Bronson was third with a score of 615.5950, followed by White Pigeon 606.8860 and Maple Valley 582.4096. Delton dominated the competition until round three, when Schoolcraft outscored the Panthers 277.1 to 273.6. The Panthers added that score to a 201.6 from round one and a 184.3320 from round two. Schoolcraft had the second-best score in each of the first two rounds, a 188.4 in round one and a 168.8000 in round two. Maple Valley’s girls scored a 182.7 in round one, a 150.7096 in round two and a 249.0 in round three. Delton Kellogg’s girls will try to extend their season Saturday when they take part in the Division 3 District Tournament at Allegan. The top four teams from the district tournament advance to next week’s regional round. Cheering is set to begin at 5 p.m. Maple Valley heads to Michigan Center for its Division 4 District Tournament Saturday morning at 10. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 16, 2012 — Page 19 Bulldogs beat Trojans by winning the close ones by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Normally, beating Hastings is the culmination of a lot of time and effort for the Thornapple Kellogg varsity wrestling team. Wednesday though, there was more work to be done and the Trojans came up just short. Byron Center topped the Trojans 40-17 in the Division 2 District Championship match at Byron Center High School, after two very different semifinal round matches. The Trojans battled their league-rivals from Hastings for a 33-30 win to start the night, in a match that lasted long after the Bulldogs had dispatched Wayland from the state tournament with a 71-10 win in their semifinal match. “We’ve had three very emotional weeks, going back to when we wrestled Hastings, and followed that up with a rivalry against Caledonia, then everything that went on at the conference tournament,” said TK head coach Scott Szczepanek. “It’s been really emotional and really up and down. I thought we lost a little bit of steam here at the end of the season, but our guys are going to get refocused for Saturday.” With a little more steam, maybe the Trojans pull out a few more close matches against the Bulldogs. Half of the 14 weight classes were decided by three points or less, and Byron Center won six of those seven tight matches. Those wins included a 12-11 win by Bao Chao over Ronaldo Sambrano in the 112pound bout that opened the district final; Mike Huiser’s 9-6 win over Nick Flynn at 125 pounds; Tom Riemersma’s 6-4 win over Nate Iveson at 140; Jake Fuller’s 7-4 win over Oscar Cardosa at 145; Tyler Ritsema’s 4-2 win over Cody Ybema at 160; and Zack Gnass’ 8-6 win over Dan Dykstra at 171. “I think we wrestled well,” Szczepanek. “We needed to get fortunate in some situations. I don’t want to take anything away from Byron Center. They’re a very good team. They wrestled very well. We needed some fortune to smile on us tonight a little bit and it kind of seemed at every turn it didn’t, from having guys dinged up and our starting 103pounder out with the flu tonight even right down to what weight class we started at. Nothing seemed to line up for us. Our kids went out and they wrestled well. “Look at all the decisions in that match. The three-point decisions. Every one of those kids is a quality wrestler. I thought we went right with them. We just couldn’t pull out the two- and three-point decisions.” The only match like that the Trojans did win was at 119 pounds, where Ryan Flynn topped Nolan Waddell 6-3. Cole Gahan won by more, five points, at 152 pounds for TK, but that was a close match too. He took down the Bulldogs’ Ryan Ashbaugh with about 40 seconds left and put him on his back to earn a 6-1 win. TK’s only other wins against the Bulldogs were lopsided ones. Adrian Foster pinned Nick Lay five seconds into the 285 pound match, and Peter Westra scored a 15-0 technical fall against Luke Debormer in less than two full periods of action. Byron Center also had Collin Tompkins scored a 17-4 win over Nick Iveson at 130 pounds, and the Bulldogs got pins from Zach Baumer at 135 pounds, Austin Stedman at Thornapple Kellogg 285-pounder Adrian Foster pins Byron Center’s Nick Lay 5 seconds into their District Finals match Wednesday at Byron Center High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Hastings’ Cody Newton (left) tries to fight off a shot by Thornapple Kellogg’s Dan Dykstra during the first period of their 171-pound match Wednesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) 215 pounds, and Jake Busing at 103 pounds. The district final was closer than the final score indicated, while the district semifinal the Trojans wrestled with Hastings wasn’t quite as close as the final score showed. When the Trojans wrapped up the win, they forfeited the 285-pound weight class to the Saxons. Austin Koehl clinched the semifinal win for TK with his 9-5 win over Nate Pewoski in the 215-pound match. “This match is always this match,” said Hastings head coach Mike Goggins. “Even when one team is clearly better than the other it seems like they’re always close. We’re used to this one. When it’s Middleville it’s always going to be that way. Next year it’ll be just like this again. Somebody will win by a few. There will be questionable calls. That’s just the way it is. That’s the nature of the beast. They wrestled well tonight.” Hastings led the dual with the Trojans 21-9 after six matches, but the Trojan rally started when Nate Iveson pinned Jason Slaughter 4:46 into the 140-pound bout. TK pushed its way into the lead with Cardosa topping Stephen Kendall 17-6 at 145 pounds and Gahan pulling out a 6-0 win over Chase Huisman in the 152-pound match. The Saxons took their final lead when Kenny Cross scored a 10-3 win over Ybema in the 160-pound match. TK followed that up with three straight wins, starting with Dan Dykstra’s 22-9 major decision of Cody Newton. Westra then scored an 8-0 major decision of Joe Krebs at 189. Hastings’ Davey Case (left) moves Thornapple Kellogg’s Nick Flynn around the mat during the first period of their 125-pound match at Byron Center High School Wednesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Ryan Flynn had the only other Trojan pin in the dual. He got TK its first points when he stuck Shane Tossava 3:41 into the 119-pound match. TK also got a 9-6 win from Nick Iveson, who topped Brody Madden in the 130-pound match. The Saxons got three pins in the match, with Aaron Williams sticking Ryan Gorton in the 103-pound match, Davey Case topping Nick Flynn at 125 pounds, and Joey Siska pinning Paul Haney at 135 pounds. The Saxons’ other points came from Zach Wilcox who topped Sambrano 7-1 at 112 pounds. “They wrestled fine,” said Goggins. “No worries, no complaints. We’ll be competitive for the next two years easily, so I fell good about it.” The Saxon line-up included just four seniors this season, Tossava, Case, Krebs and Mike Pewoski. Pewoski was a first-year varsity wrestler. He was one of eight new starters for the Saxons this winter. Hastings has two wrestlers still alive in the Individual State Tournament, Cross and Wilcox. The Saxons and the Trojans both took part in the Division 2 Individual District Tournament at Hamilton High School Saturday. Cross was third in the 160-pound weight class, scoring a 19-3 technical fall against Zeeland East’s Jon Uitvlugt in the consolation finals. Cross was bumped from the top half of the bracket by Lansing Waverly’s Thomas Houston in the semifinals, then earned a spot in the consolation final by scoring a 6-0 win over TK’s Ybema. Wilcox was fourth at 112 pounds. He also reached the championship semifinals, falling to Zeeland East’s Brandon Tresmer there 7-3. Wilcox topped TK’s Sambrano 7-4 in the consolation semifinals, before falling 7-0 to DeWitt’s Rachel McFarland in the consolation final. While Cross and Wilcox both ended the tournament run of a Trojan in the blood-round (consolation semifinal) matches Saturday, eight Trojans made it through to the Division 2 Individual Regional Tournament which will be held in Middleville Saturday. That group of eight Trojans included four wrestlers who made it to the district final. Foster was TK’s lone champion, he improved to 41-0 on the season by pinning all three of his competitors. He stuck Hamilton’s Will Braschler 1:33 into the 285-pound championship match. Ryan Flynn at 119 pounds, Nick Flynn at 125 and Cardosa at 152 were the Trojans’ three runners-up. TK also had Cole Gahan fourth at 152 pounds, Nate Iveson fourth at 140, Dan Dykstra fourth at 171, and Chris Poland third at 103 pounds. Martin six points better than Lions in district final by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Martin raced out to an 18-0 lead then held off a Lion rally to win the Division 4 Team District Tournament at Maple Valley High School Wednesday. The Clippers topped the Maple Valley varsity wrestling team 39-33 in the district final, which came down to the final match of the night. Deven Veldhuis sealed the victory for the Clippers by pinning the Lions’ Hunter Sebastian 1 minute and 16 seconds into the 125-pound match. The two teams were tied 33-33 heading into that bout. “Martin came to wrestle and wrestled well,” said Lion coach Tony Wawiernia. Martin won the night’s first four bouts, with Logan Curry (130 pounds) and Ryan Hunt (135) scoring pins and Sam Smith (140) and Jacob Morrell (145) pulling out tight wins in high-scoring matches. Smith edged Seth Feasel 15-14, while Morrell pulled out a 13-11 win over Zack Pixley. There were three matches that were decided by two points or less, and the Clippers won all three. They also had McKinnon Elkins pull out a 5-3 win over Alejandro Reid in the 215-pound match. “Our young kids wrestled well,” Wawiernia said. “Our seniors didn’t have a good night.” Lions’ Sam Bonney scored a 9-3 win over Sara Holden at 125 pounds. The Lions advanced to the district final with an opening round win over Bellevue by the score of 60-24. Maple Valley got pins from Andrew Zank (135) and Reid (215) in that dual with the Broncos, while Crouch (103), Davis (112), Sebastian (119), Jake Milbauer (130), Seth Feasel (140), Pixley (145), Flower (152) and Rodney Bement (171) won by forfeit. There are still four Lion wrestlers alive in the individual state tournament. Flower, Reid, Davis and Zank all finished in the top four in their weight classes at Saturday’s Division 4 Individual District at Galesburg-Augusta High School. Flower had the best finish of any of the four, placing second in the 152-pound weight class. He pinned Quincy’s Tyler Smith and then scored a 20-6 win over GalesburgAugusta’s Jesse Ring to earn a spot in the championship match where he was edged by Constantine’s Ben Mallo 4-3. Davis was third at 112 pounds. He pinned Schoolcraft’s Connor Briggs 4:50 into their consolation final. Zank had to win two consolation bracket matches to secure his spot in the individual regional. In the consolation final he fell 9-2 to Bronson’s Taylor Williams, the same wrestle who topped him in the second round of the tournament. Reid had a bye in the opening round, then pinned White Pigeon’s Devin Hoover 3:23 into their championship quarterfinal. Reid though was edged by Schoolcraft’s Charles Edick in the semifinals 10-8. Reid then pinned Schoolcraft’s Jack Bensley in the consolation semifinals to earn a spot in the regional. In the match for third place, Constantine’s Seth Stears edged him 2-1. Constantine will host this Saturday’s Division 4 Regional Tournament, which will also include the best wrestlers from the Watervliet District Tournament. SAXON WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE Complete online schedule at: www.hassk12.org THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16 Maple Valley Travis Franks looks to throw down Martin’s Isaac Hopkins during the first period of their 189-pound match Wednesday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Lion 215-pounder Alejandro Reid tries to escape the grasp of Martin’s McKinnon Elkins during their District Finals match Wednesday at Maple Valley High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) The Lions made up the early deficit with Cash Flower at 152 pounds and Darius France at 171 scoring first-period pins, and Travis Franks adding another one in the 189-pound match. Martin though added a pin from Rass Pederson at 160 pounds and one from Tanner Spencer in the 285-pound match. It was the lightweights who finally tied up the match for Maple Valley. Kodee Crouch pinned Martin’s Zack Tant 1:12 into the 103pound match, then Austin Davis won by forfeit at 112 pounds for Maple Valley, and the Boys Girls Boys Girls Fresh. Fresh. JV JV Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Ottawa Hills HS Ottawa Hills HS Ottawa Hills HS Ottawa Hills HS WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 22 H A H A FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17 6:00 PM Girls Varsity Basketball Ottawa Hills HS 7:30 PM Boys Varsity Basketball Ottawa Hills HS 7:45 PM Boys Varsity Ice Hockey Manistee HS A H H TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 21 4:00 PM 4:00 PM 5:30 PM 5:30 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM Boys Girls Boys Girls Boys Girls Fresh. Fresh. JV JV Varsity Varsity Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Wayland Union HS Wayland Union HS Wayland Union HS Wayland Union HS Wayland Union HS Wayland Union HS Girls Girls Girls Girls 7th B 8th B 8th A 7th A Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Kraft Meadow Kraft Meadow Kraft Meadow Kraft Meadow A H H A THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23 H H H SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18 9:00 AM Boys Varsity Wrestling Ind. Regionals @ MTK 9:00 AM Boys MS Wrestling Saxon Invite 7:00 PM Boys Varsity Ice Hockey Holt HS 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 5:30 PM 5:30 PM H A H A H A HASTINGS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS Contact Nancy 945-2742 or hastingsathleticboosters@gmail.com to sponsor the schedule 4:15 PM 4:30 PM 4:30 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM Boys Boys Girls Boys Girls MS Fresh. Fresh. JV JV Wrestling Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Lowell MS Forest Hills Eastern HS Forest Hills Eastern HS Forest Hills Eastern HS Forest Hills Eastern HS H H A H A Times and dates subject to change Thanks to This Week’s Sponsor In Memory of Mary Youngs 77565837 4:30 PM 4:30 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM �Page 20 — Thursday, February 16, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Hastings individuals, teams moving on to FFA regionals The Hastings FFA Chapter hosted Maple Valley, Charlotte and Olivet teams for the Region 1 district leadership contests Feb. 2 at Hastings High School. Several Hastings students from both the high school and middle school FFA programs competed and will advance to regional competition tonight, Feb. 16, at Maple Valley Junior/Senior High School. Representing Hastings in the prepared public speaking competition was Ethan Haywood, who took a first place gold award and will advance to regional competition. In the job interview contest, Amber Pickard placed first with a gold award and will represent Hastings at regionals, and Tanner Roderick placed third with a gold award and will be an alternate to regional competition. Competing in the parliamentary procedure contest, the Hastings gold team took first place and a gold award. Members are Cassey Glumm, Steven Endsley, Jake Norris, Cindy Hastings High School Parliamentary Procedure Gold Team, taking a first place, gold award, includes (front row, from left) Alyssa Larsen, Cindy Tebo, Ashley Stanton, Cassey Glumm, (back) Steven Endsley, Jake Norris and Russell Ellinger. Tebo, Alyssa Larsen, Russell Ellinger and Ashley Stanton. The Hastings blue team, which includes Allie Porter, Andy Slocum, Katie Endsley, Katy Kesler, Kraig Morris, Mitchell Philley and Hannah Tebo, took second place and received a gold award. Both parliamentary procedure teams will advance to regional competition. The Greenhand Conduct of Meetings team, which consisted of Zach Pennington, James Senard, Atricia Johnson, Carter Bennett, Sarah Sixberry, Derika Koch, Kaitlyn Bancroft and Tillery Larsen, won a first place gold award and will advance to regional competition. From Hastings Middle School, qualifying for regional competition was Becky Maurer, who took second place in the creed speaking contest with a gold award; and Austin Some of the individual winners from Hastings are (from left) Tanner Roderick, job interview, third place, gold; Austin Haywood, junior high public speaking, first place, gold; Ethan Haywood, prepared public speaking, first place, gold; and Amber Pickard, job interview, first place, gold. LIMITED QUANTITY Haier 42" LCD TV Samsung 46” LED TV L42C1180 Was $599.99 UN46C7000 Wifi The Hastings Middle School Conduct of Meetings Blue Team took first place and received a gold award. Pictured are team members (front row, from left) Ashley Glumm, Sarah Porter, Megan Slagel, Mikayla Warner, Kylie Pickard, (back) Kristen Gillespie and Caleb Keech; and Becky Maurer, who took second place and received a gold award in creed speaking. Haywood, who took a first place in the junior high public speaking contest with a gold award. Also advancing to regionals was the junior high conduct of meetings blue team, which earned first place and a gold award. Members of that team include Sarah Porter, Ashley Glumm, Kylie Pickard, Mikayla Warner, Megan Slagel, Kristen Gillespie and Caleb Keech. Qualifying as an alternate to regionals was the Hastings gold team, which received a third place and gold award. Team members are Claire Harris, Katy Weinbrecht, Sammy Mitchell, Matthew Maurer, Sam Pennington, Liberty Larsen and Matt Endsley. The Hastings Middle School Conduct of Meetings Gold Team, taking third place and receiving a gold award, is comprised of (front row, from left) Sam Pennington, Sammy Mitchell, Matthew Maurer, (back) Katy Weinbrecht, Matt Endsley, Liberty Larsen and Claire Harris. 1 ONLY! Originally $1999.99 447 $ Sale … 99 1199 $ Close-Out … Samsung 46" LCD Sony 46" LED LN46C750 1080p, 240 Hz Originally $1799.99 LN46C750 1080p, 240 Hz 2 ONLY! 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(Missing from photo are Atricia Johnson and Carter Bennett) � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-02-23.pdf 6b6ed6f3b86f50ece30d4ccebf38acff PDF Text Text School board conducts Superintendent interviews Hastings schools to choose new leader KVA title still within DK boys’ reach See Story on Page 6 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 16 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 8 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, February 23, 2012 NEWS Hastings board considers $10,000 bid for Pleasantview BRIEFS COA to host fiddlers jamboree Feb. Saturday The Michigan Fiddlers Association will be returning to the Barry County Commission on Aging Saturday, Feb. 25, for a day of music, food and dancing. Musicians come in from all over Barry County and West Michigan. Fiddlers will be showing their stuff from 2 to 5 p.m. A sign-up sheet will be available for openmicrophone performances, which will be from 5 to 6 p.m. From 6 to 9 p.m., the event will be plenty of music, including fiddles, guitars, dulcimers, bass fiddles, piano and more. The floor will be open for round, square and couples dancing. The Commission on Aging will be offering a hearty dinner of chicken and biscuit casserole, fruited gelatin, cupcakes and beverages. Dinner will be available from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at a cost of $6 for adults. All proceeds from dinner will go toward COA services for homebound seniors. Admission to the jamboree is free of charge, but freewill offerings are appreciated. Proceeds at the door are split evenly by the fiddlers association and the COA. The Commission on Aging is located at 320 W. Woodlawn Ave. in Hastings. For more information, call Nellie, 517-6282108, or Bob, 269-945-2500. Thornapple Players holding auditions Monday by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Monday, Feb. 27, the Hastings Board of Education is expected to decide whether to accept a bid of $10,000 for Pleasantview Elementary in Lacey, which has stood vacant and been subjected to repeated vandalism since it was closed by the district as a costcutting measure in June 2008. “People are probably going to be upset when they see the amount — $10,000 — but the reality is, it would probably cost us four times that just to fix the septic.” Dan Patton, vice president “Right before the bid deadline we had some vandalism,” said Hastings Area Schools Interim Superintendent Michelle Falcon. “[Pleasantview] was broken into; some copper pipes were stolen.” Plesantview Elementary (file photo) Falcon told the board, during its monthly work session Tuesday evening, that the district had received no bids on the 10-acre property by the Feb. 15 deadline. However, after the deadline, Goldsworthy Real Estate put a bid on the property. She said that, according to the district’s attorney, since no other bids were received during the bidding process, the district is allowed to negotiate with the bidder. Falcon said Robert Goldsworthy had been by Doug VanderLaan Editor Hoping to devise a strategy as sound and precise as that of a chessmaster, the Barry County Board of Commissioners spent a good portion of Tuesday’s committee of the whole meeting contemplating relevant issues to the formulation of a long-range building-use plan. Dennis MacDonell, a trial court security specialist with the Michigan Supreme Court, provided commissioners with an overview of how to improve the safety of the Barry County Courthouse. Security at the courthouse is part of a larger plan whose impetus came from questions on the fate of the former library building on South Church Street. The vacant library building, which came under county ownership in a land swap deal with the City of Hastings in June of 2009, prompted the larger building-use issue during the board’s strategic planning session last month. At that meeting, commissioners directed County Administrator Michael See PLEASANTVIEW, pg. 2 Brown to construct a proposed space-usage plan for not just the library building, but for the courthouse and the adjacent courts and law building, as well. Tuesday’s presentation by MacDonell was a first step to formulating that plan as an overview of concerns regarding security, efficiency and cost. “To have effective court security, we take a look at the architectural elements in public buildings,” pointed out MacDonell a 30-year retired law enforcement officer. “This is a beautiful courthouse with a beautiful courtroom downstairs, but is it really that safe and secure? “Just like a lot of our historic courthouses, they’re not very safe and secure. They’re beautiful buildings, they’re well maintained — and this one they did a great job on, but making it secure with all the entrances here is very difficult.” See BUILDINGS, pg. 8 Braced for lower MEAP scores, local school officials see improvements Spay Day certificates available See NEWS BRIEFS, continued on page 2 Patton, who has been working with Falcon on the sale of the school, said the property doesn’t have a lot of market value. “To the west [of the school] part of the property is swamp. There is a little bit of timber — maybe an acre worth of timber back there, if that much; it’s pretty small,” said Patton. “It’s not tillable property, so it’s not agricultural. Commissioners review security concerns in building-use plan The Thornapple Players will hold auditions for their spring production of “Guys and Dolls,” Monday, Feb. 27, from 7 to 9 p.m. at Leason Sharpe Hall in the Barry Community Enrichment Center (former Hastings Presbyterian church). “We are excited to be producing ‘Guys and Dolls’ in our new at the Barry Enrichment Center,” said Norma Jean Acker. “The show has great music and an entertaining story. We are looking for young singers and dancers, which is why we are encouraging those 17 and over to audition. We are also looking for men and women of all ages for the other roles.” The center is located at 231 S. Broadway, Hastings. Auditions are open to anyone age 17 or older. No preparation is necessary. Callbacks will be Feb. 28. If unable to attend the audition, call 269948-9828 or 269-945-2332 by Feb. 25. Once again, the Barry County Humane Society is participating in Spay Day, Tuesday, Feb. 28, a day set aside internationally to help with the ongoing problem of pet over-population. The purpose of this event is to encourage all pet owners to have their dogs and cats spayed or neutered. That day, pet owners may call the Barry County Humane Society or stop by the office on the second floor of the Masonic Building, 106-B E. State St., Hastings, between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m., and receive one or more of these discount certificates. The Humane Society is also offering these $20 discount certificates to anyone who adopts a new pet from the Barry County Animal Control/Shelter (located at the end of Industrial Park Drive in Hastings) during the week of Feb. 27 through March 3. out to Dowling to look at the building which would be sold “as is.” However, Falcon said the district’s attorney is preparing an addendum to the sale contract to document the steps the district has taken to remedy any damage to the building as the result of vandalism, which will be submitted along with the bid for the board’s approval Monday evening. When other board members commented that the bid seemed low, Vice President Dan Slice of Winterfest John Merucci of Marshall begins to shape a sculpture with a chainsaw as a crowd gathers during Gun Lake Winterfest Saturday afternoon. Merucci gave two ice sculpting demonstrations at the Allegan County Park, taking about an hour for each piece. The Barry County Transit trolley (background) was brought in to transport festivalgoers between venues. For more photos from Winterfest, see page 3. (Photo by Perry Hardin) J-Ad Graphics News Service Wednesday, Feb. 15, the State of Michigan released the fall 2011 Michigan Education Assessment Program scores for public schools, grades three through nine. Beginning this year, the state increased the cut-off point — more commonly called cut scores — at which students are deemed proficient in a subject area. After having a week to examine building scores, district results and averages and compare them to state averages, previous years’ scores and take into account the new cut scores which were raised last year, district administrators respond to their results: Delton Kellogg “We will be poring over them very carefully and plan on a thorough presentation at the March board meeting,” said Paul Blacken, superintendent of Delton Kellogg Schools of his district’s MEAP results. “As you know, the state produced new and higher cut scores [in order] for students to be deemed proficient. Some areas look good and show improvement, and some areas need continued attention and more improvement. Since 2008, we have showed steady improvement.” Blacken said, in general, scores in reading and writing, which the district has been focusing on, have improved and the district is holding its own on math. Hastings As in Delton Kellogg, reading and writing have been a focus during the past two academic years for Hastings Area Schools. Based on adjusted cut scores, Hastings students show an upward trend in those areas, except for middle school writing. However, Hastings’ MEAP scores show an overall decrease in proficiency in math, even while Central and Northeastern elementary schools showed improvement. “Since I came here in August 2010, based on the results of the literacy audit, we have been working on improving our reading and writing scores,” said Hastings Area Schools Interim Superintendent Michelle Falcon. “Next year we will be looking at math and with good reason; that is the one area where we did not show an increase in student achievement. “Each year the curriculum committee concentrates on one core content area,” she said. “We will be looking at our scores and trying to determine where we go from here.” Falcon said Star Elementary scores were higher than both district and state scores in all areas, she said difference may or may not be attributed in part to looping for the fourth and fifth grade teachers and students at Star, where the teachers move up a grade so they have the same students for two years. “The new cut scores represent a significantly higher standard for student achievement and are intended to more accurately reflect a student’s progress toward college and career readiness. On some tests, students previously could have answered as few as 40 percent of the questions correctly to be considered proficient. Under the new scoring system, students will have to correctly answer a much higher percentage of questions.” Lakewood curriculum director Tim McMillen “Our English language arts curriculum is more aligned [between buildings] than ever before,” said Falcon, “and, we will be looking at the common core curriculum that we will be expected to have in place for the 2012-13 school year.” Lakewood Lakewood’s fall MEAP 2011 scores showed both improvements and declines in number of students meeting or exceeding the standards. For example, in math scores, third grade students improved with 36.10 percent passing in 2008 compared to 57.60 percent passing in 2011. Reading scores had 70.40 percent meeting standards in 2008 and 74 percent meeting standards in 2011. Fourth grade math scores declined from 41 percent in 2008 to 29 percent in 2011. Reading scores See MEAP, page 5 �Page 2 — Thursday, February 23, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Delton board urges district residents NEWS BRIEFS to approve millage renewal continued from front page The Barry County Humane Society is not the Barry County Animal Control/Shelter and is not at the shelter location. For more information, call the Barry County Humane Society, 269-945-0602 or 269-945-3169. Pheasants Forever banquet planned Barry County Pheasants Forever 15th annual fundraising banquet will be Saturday, March 3, at the Middle Villa Inn. Doors will open at 5 and dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m. All funds raised are used locally for wildlife habitat improvement and conservation programs. For more information, call Dan, 269- 838-8994, or Jim, 269-838-3210. Millage information session is next week The Hastings Board of Education will conduct an informational session on a proposed 10-year 1.6-mill recreational levy beginning at 7 p.m., Thursday, March 1, in the Hastings High School lecture hall, 520 W. South St. If approved by voters during the Tuesday, May 8, school election, the millage would return $799,000 to the district’s general fund for the 2012-13 school year. Presidential primary election is Tuesday Michigan citizens to vote in the presidential primary election on Tuesday, Feb. 28. “I would urge all citizens who wish to do so to celebrate their freedom and make sure their voice is heard, their vote counts,” Secretary of State Ruth Johnson, Michigan’s chief elections officer. This election, like all elections, is open to all registered voters. However, because this is a closed primary, voters will be required to indicate which party’s primary they wish to vote in, and they will then receive that party’s ballot. Voters do not need to be a registered member of a political party in order to cast a ballot. Communities in more than 50 counties are also holding special elections that day, including Delton Kellogg, which is seeking annual renewal of its non-homestead tax proposal (see related story). Voters who wish to vote in only those elections may request a ballot that does not include presidential candidates. “When you go to the polls on Election Day or apply for an absentee ballot, however, you must request either a Republican Party or a Democratic Party ballot which will include only the candidates of the party you select,” according to Barry County Clerk’s website. “If a special election is conducted in conjunc- tion with the presidential primary, the special election information will appear on both the Republican and Democratic ballots. You will also have the option of selecting a ballot that excludes presidential primary information and includes only special election information.” The official ballot may have a slightly different format but the selections should include for the Republican Party: Michele Bachmann, Herman Cain, Newt Gingrich, Jon Huntsman, Gary Johnson, Fred Karger, Ron Paul, Rick Perry, Buddy Roemer, Mitt Romney, Rick Santorum and “Uncommitted.” The Democratic party section will include Barack Obama and “Uncommitted.” Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Voters will be asked to present photo ID at the polls, such as a Michigan driver’s license or identification card. A specially equipped voting station called the AutoMARK Voter Assist Terminal is also available at each polling location for use by voters with disabilities. For more information about office locations and additional services, visit www.Michigan.gov/sos. Customers also may call the Department of State Information Center to speak to a customer service representative at 888-SOS-MICH (767-6424). PLEASANTVIEW, continued from page 1 You’re paying $1,000 an acre because the building, quite frankly, I don’t know what else you could do with the building because of the health department side of it.” Patton said that because the property and building are being purchased for the purpose of cold storage, the Barry-Eaton Health Department said the Time of Sale or Transfer regulation would not be a factor. “For us, the school board, that is the biggest issue,” Patton said. “If we keep it; we’re going to run into the same problems we ran into last week, which is vandalism, or theft in this case. We don’t have the resources to spend the amount of money it would take to bring the septic system and water system up to code under health department regulations. “People are probably going to be upset when they see the amount — $10,000 — but the reality is, it would probably cost us four times that just to fix the septic,” said Patton. “I hate that Pleasantview was ever closed, but that’s a completely separate issue. At this point in time, it is costing the district a lot of money — money that we don’t have quite frankly — and it’s going to cost us a whole lot more if we continue to hold on to that building.” Barb Hunt, director of finance, estimated that since the district dropped full coverage insurance on the building, which totaled approximately $20,000 per year, it costs the district, “a couple thousand” each year for heating and for liability insurance on the building. Treasurer Rob Longstreet asked that the contract include the stipulation that Goldsworthy Real Estate pay the closing costs for the sale of the property. He also said that before the board makes a decision, he would like to have an appraisal of the property’s market value. “I think the answer is that there is no market value when there are no buyers for it,” said Longstreet. “... People are going to be upset; unfortunately, I don’t think we can take that into consideration right now. I think we have a fiduciary duty to do whatever is cost effective ... You have to make tough decisions; but if somebody calls you on it, you have to have a reason why you made that decision. I’d like to have back-up reasoning why we made that decision.” Falcon said she would get an appraisal. Trustee Gene Haas said he had concerns that assets in the building weren’t considered in the bid for the building. “While I honor Dan’s opinion that it is costing us money to keep it [Pleasantview], I’m not sure we’re doing the right thing by lit- erally giving it away,” he said. “Have you seen the state of that facility?” Patton asked Haas. “I haven’t been out there since it closed,” said Haas. “Go out and take a look, Gene,” said Patton. “If you drive by it ... it looks awful. It’s not kept up ...” Falcon said she has talked with Goldsworthy and he is not interested in the building for its remaining kitchen equipment or the boiler because he only wants the building for cold storage. “All of the big furniture items are out of there,” she said. “There’s some old books but we’ve hauled the books that we could ... maybe some office supplies; but, it really is junk.” Falcon said she has been advised to talk with Goldsworthy about the district retaining the kitchen equipment and the boiler since they will not be needed for his intended use of the building. “Basically, the value of the building is the boiler,” said Patton. “Basically they [Goldsworthy Real Estate] got some brick and mortar and a roof.” Patton said the boiler was fairly new and worked well until the thieves cut and removed the copper pipes. Hastings resident Becky Deal asked if anyone else, including the district, had considered using the building for cold storage. Falcon replied that because the district is down to seven maintenance employees, it is not cost-effective because of the expense of travel and manpower. “Couldn’t we just rent it out?” asked Deal. “Rent it to who?” asked Beck. Beck later noted that the district had requested bids twice, and despite working with potential buyers, had received only one bid. Deal asked if demolishing the building would increase the property’s value. “The problem with demo[lition] is we’d have to do an asbestos abatement,” said Patton. “So, now our prices would have just skyrocketed.” Haas asked if Johnstown Township had been approached about purchasing the property for use as a community center. Patton replied that there had been some discussion, but it fell to the wayside after the township built its new fire barn. “There is an emotional part of it. But, the reality is, it’s worthless, and we’re just spending money on it,” said Longstreet. The regular meeting of the board is slated for 7:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 27, in the multipurpose room of Hastings Middle School, 232 W. Grand St. by David DeDecker Staff Writer One of the prime announcements at the Delton Kellogg Schools Board of Education meeting Feb. 20. concerned the upcoming millage vote that will be on the ballot in the presidential primary Tuesday, Feb. 28. “At the same time, our school district will be placing on the ballot our annual renewal of the non-homestead 18 mill vote,” said Delton Kellogg Superintendent Paul Blacken. “This renewal means about $2.4 million to our annual budget. This only applies to secondhomeowners and business property mainly. It does not apply to our regular homes, and it is very important to us. Nobody’s taxes go up, as it is purely a renewal, which we vote on each year. A lot of people are confused about it. We use it every year. Because of the change in property values, we can end up not getting the full amount. A couple schools in Southwest Michigan have not done a decent job talking about it and have not passed it. Then, they needed to scurry around and get it on the ballot again until it passed.” Blacken then spoke about the Michigan Education Assessment Program scores for Delton Kellogg Schools. He said the scores would be analyzed and discussed in depth at the March board meeting, and the school website and upcoming newsletter will have information about the district’s progress. The evening’s action items included approval of employee resignations, new hires and spring coaches. Board member Ben Tobias was absent for all votes. Resignations approved included Rhonda Sturgeon, a special education teacher; William VanDenberg, bus driver; Amanda Jones, network technician; and Mary Heckman, paraprofessional. New hires approved were Katie LeBeck, special education teacher; Jamie Collier, middle school Title 1 paraprofessional; and Lori Dudley, bus driver. Coaches who were approved for spring sports included Bill Humphrey, varsity baseball; Rod Aukerman, junior varsity baseball; Kelly Yoder, varsity softball; Mark Keim, junior varsity softball; Rick Williams, assistant varsity girls track; Dale Grimes, varsity boys track; Jim Hogoboom, assistant varsity boys track; Tracy Webster, varsity girls soccer, Kent Enyart, varsity boys golf; Jim Sprague, junior varsity boys golf; Mark Nabozny, head middle school track; Ryan Bates, assistant middle school track; and Karmin Bourdo, varsity girls track and field. In other news, Blacken mentioned the regional Odyssey of the Mind competition will be in Delton March 17. He said this is the first time the regionals will be held at Delton Kellogg Schools. Board member Jennifer Bever gave the facilities report. Bever said the committee met on Jan. 26 to tour the school’s building trades house, which is nearing completion. They also discussed potential sites for next year’s house. Jim McManus summarized the policies committee report. He said the committee is reviewing new NEOLA updates to the bullying policy. Bassett said the finance committee discussed with parents a possible bus run to the Battle Creek Math and Science Center. She said the committee also discussed long-term substitute teachers and health insurance options. Elementary principal Steve Scoville made a presentation about the Healthy Communities program. A year ago, he said, elementary school staff applied for the Health Communities schools grant through Blue Cross Blue Shield. Part of that the program is a Mileage Club, which the school has been running a every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Scoville said 241 students in the elementary grades have walked more than five miles, which is 45 percent of the student population. “So, we are pretty proud of that number, he said. “As a school, we have gone almost 2,000 miles in our walking and running efforts, and it was October before we even got started.” Three students were present at the board meeting who have logged more than 50 miles: Alan Rogers, Erin Kapteyn and Owen Wolfe. Scoville said classes participated in a Run for the Heart competition in February with Stephanie Diller’s class winning with 558 laps, or 140 miles for the class. Another health-conscious competition taking place is The Biggest Loser contest with 39 Panthers participating. Ten of the competitors are community members and 29 are school staff members, with 85 percent of the elementary staff participating. In five weeks a total of 350 pounds have been shed by the 39 Panthers. Yet another piece of the Health Communities program is Hop Sports. Scoville said it is a video-based exercise program projected on a screen in the gym. The activities focus on stretching and aerobics. Board member Marsha Bassett said the school was able to get $36,000 in free equipment for program participation. “As part of this grant, we got an invite to a Healthy Habits competition,” said Scoville. “The prize is Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford comes to DK for an assembly. We need to submit a video for the contest. We have started putting that video together.” Amber Mabie, a fourth grader in Ryan Bates’ class, assembled a team of students and is directing and shooting the video project. A roughly edited partial version of the video was played for the board. The video showed students running, walking and doing Hop Sports. “It’s an excellent job and a lot of hard work,” said Scoville. “A lot of folks have done some great things, so we’re very excited.” The next meeting of the Delton Kellogg Board of Education will be Monday, March 19, in the elementary school. DK millage renewal is sole issue in primary here In addition to voting in a presidential primary, residents in the Delton Kellogg school district will see on the Feb. 28 ballot the proposal to renew the non-homestead tax, which is sought annually. The school district receives approximately $2.4 million in revenue from this renewal, which is not a tax on people living in primary residences. It is paid only by local businesses, owners of second homes and commercial and industrial properties. Since principal residences are not affected by the non-homestead taxes, their tax bills will not increase with a “yes” vote, said Delton Kellogg Superintendent Paul Blacken. “If this renewal is rejected, the effect on the school district will be devastating and would mean drastic cuts to programs and staffing,” said Blacken. The state per-pupil foundation grant of $6,846 is based on the assumption that the local district levies 18 mills. If the district does not levy the full 18 mills, it will not have the $6,846 per-pupil, before considering any reductions the state might make to funding after the school year starts. “Our current tax levy for the non-homestead property tax expired in 2011,” said Blacken. Delton Kellogg Schools receives the full funding promised by Proposal A only if voters approve the renewal of 18 mills on nonhomestead properties. “This is very important to all public school districts, particularly as our state has cut back their funding to public schools the last several years,” said Blacken. The Delton Kellogg school district includes portions of Baltimore, Barry, Hope, Johnstown, Orangeville, Prairieville and Yankee Springs townships in Barry County and Plainwell Township in Allegan County. Green Gables Auction a big success by David DeDecker Staff Writer The Green Gables Haven 10th annual charity auction and dinner packed Ever After Banquet Hall in Hastings Feb. 11. The community gathered to celebrate and support the local woman’s shelter with dinner and a live and silent auction. “It was a record-breaking year, both in attendance and funds raised,” said Green Gables Haven Executive Director Janie Bergeron. “I am thrilled with the incredible response to our 10th annual event. Funds raised through the auction are used for operating expenses. Preliminary numbers show the community rallied and allowed Green Gables Haven to receive a record $43,000 before expenses for The main raffle item is this hand-stitched quilt made by Cheryl Guernsey (right) and won by long-time Green Gables supporter Laura Miller. Lt. Gov. Brian Calley attends the Green Gables fundraiser and offered a day with him as a live auction item raising $575 for the shelter. this year’s event. The auction attracted 245 guests, as well as support through sponsorships from local businesses, organizations and individuals. Bergeron said that United Way support and fundraisers like the auction allow Green Gables Haven to keep its doors open to serve individuals in domestic-violence situations. The fundraiser supports the shelter’s mission to provide a temporary and secure environment that enables victims in Barry County to make changes to improve their lives. “The support from the community of Barry County, sports teams, organizations around the country and the people are what makes all of this possible,” said Bergeron. “The auction committee truly make this event happen. They are hard at work for months soliciting businesses for donations and sponsorships, calling in favors and asking friends for help.” Cheryl Guernsey donated a handmade step quilt for this year’s main raffle. She named the quilt “Steps to Recovery.” Guernsey worked on the queen-sized quilt for six months with a $250 donation in fabrics and materials from Glen’s Gases and Welding Supplies. Laura Miller, a longtime supporter of the shelter, was drawn as the quilt’s winner. Michigan Lt. Gov. Brian Calley and his wife, Julie, attended and have been supporters of the auction. The live auction item of accompanying Calley throughout a work day, “Lieutenant Governor for the Day” raised $575 for the shelter. Since inception in April 2004, Green Gables Haven has provided sanctuary, food, clothing, personal needs items, emergency transportation, direct services, case management and referrals. The organization also provides access to legal services, medical care and social advocacy, if needed. Green Gables is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including holidays, and has served more than 1,166 individuals, including 545 children in crisis. For more information about Green Gables Haven call Bergeron, 269-804-6021. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 23, 2012 — Page 3 Even without snow, Gun Lake Winterfest draws crowds Adam Pelicki is declared winner of the men’s pizza-eating competition Saturday afternoon. Ava Liceaga waves to the crowd after being named Little Miss Snowflake Saturday afternoon during Gun Lake Winterfest. Photos by Perry Hardin For more photos and information on Gun Lake Winterfest, see the Feb. 25 Reminder. A local hen is the center of attention during the Gun Lake Winterfest Chicken Drop. The event brought in $239. In the women’s division of the pizza-eating contest, Sabrina Kuhtic celebrates a win, taking home a $50 gift certificate. A group of models from Previously Pink display the latest in swimwear during a fashion show Saturday. New environmental education and research fund already growing About 100 people paid $10 each to run into icy water during Gun Lake Winterfest. The polar dip, which usually takes place around a hole cut into the ice, offered a more gradual entry into the water this year. Confirmation that environmental education will grow to be as strong as the majestic trees that help make up much of the Pierce Cedar Creek Institute’s 661 acres has come with the contents of a letter from Executive Director Michelle Skedgell to the founding donors of the organization’s environmental education and research fund. “For years to come, we will work to build this fund into a mighty oak, but today we are bringing the little acorn to life,” stated Skedgell in a letter announcing that, as of December 2011, donors had contributed more than $37,000 to the cause. The environmental education and research Fund was Established to build a broad and solid foundation to support environmental education at Pierce Cedar Creek. Skedgell pointed out that the institute has incredible facilities and property which have allowed it to build collaborative learning with the larger community. The endowed fund, overseen by the Barry Community Foundation, will also assure that resources are preserved and benefit students, families and everyone who wants to connect with and learn from nature. Pierce Cedar Creek Institute provides visitors with a exposure to an blend of diverse habitats including wetlands, forests, marshes, streams, lakes and prairies. It is open to the public, year-round, free of charge. Visitors may explore over seven miles of nature trails. The institute, a mix between a nature center and biological field station, offers programs to serve the community while also building partnerships with area colleges and universities to serve their faculty and students. The fund development council at Pierce Cedar Creek is working on strategic planning for the future, and the new environmental education and research fund is part of that planning. “The institute has always enjoyed all of the ways we have partnered with the community,” says Skedgell. “BCF President Bonnie Hildreth has always been very supportive of our efforts. We have enjoyed being one of the Leadership Barry County sites, as well.” Anyone wishing to contribute to the environmental education and research fund may send a donation to the Barry Community Foundation, 231 S. Broadway, Hastings 49058. For more information on the Barry Community Foundation or any of the funds held, call 269-945-0526, email info@barrycf.org, or visit the website, www.barrycf.org. 06774156 Due to lack of ice on Gun Lake, the YMCA Ice Tee Golf Scramble was moved to firm ground at Gun Lake Miniature Golf and Driving Range. Twenty-one two-person teams bundled up for the scramble that included putting challenges and chipping and driving into targets brought from the Y camp, such as a canoe, fire pit, buckets and more. �Page 4 — Thursday, February 23, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Hastings schools to choose new leader, again Designs by Jack Did you see the designs left behind by Jack Frost in recent days, like in this photo taken from inside a parked car in Hastings? The Farmers’ Almanac gives a simple, scientific explanation for why frost crystals form. When the temperature on surfaces – such as windows – drops below freezing, it causes water vapor on the surface to freeze. This happens most often on clear, cold nights, when there are no clouds to hold warmth in. Fern frost, pictured above, appears on windows when there is very cold air on one side and moist air on the other, causing tiny water droplets to form on the cold glass and freeze into patterns that resemble leaves or ferns. Or, it may be the doings of a mirthful sprite who cavorts around on cold nights painting elaborate designs on our windowpanes. We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. We’ll select a photograph for publication each week and post the others to our website for all to enjoy. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Do you know? Triple treat Do you recognize this woman lucky enough to be surrounding by three (for the moment) content babies? The man is said to be Dr. Wes Logan, who practiced medicine in Hastings for more than 25 years. The Hall triplets were born on New Year’s Eve in 1947, and one of them recently confirmed that this is not them (they had no hair, she said) or their mother. So are these babies triplets? If so, who are they? When were they born? Do they still live in the area? What can you tell us about this photo? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no dates, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about why the photo was taken. Sometimes, the identity of just one person can help connect a photo with the original clipping. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to Have you hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@j-adgraphics.com, or call 269-9459554. Last week’s photo of an older farmer and a horse drew no response. If you know who the man is, where the photo was taken or why, please contact us by email, mail or phone, above. met? Laura Bosworth admits she’s an optimist with a love of life and a fun-loving spirit. Residents at Lincoln Meadow Apartments in Middleville smile when she walks in the room wearing her oversized pink sunglasses. Born in Spain, Bosworth was the daughter of a career Air Force father and moved throughout the country. She settled in Michigan in 2001 and since 2010 has been executive director of Lincoln Meadow Apartments. When she’s not at work, Laura makes window decals that say “Adopt Yet?” to help promote forever homes for shelter animals. She donates the decals to the Barry County Animal Control office where anyone can pick one up for free. Laura says she loves her job, having fun with residents and helping them any way she can. “Every day is different, and I really feel like I’m making a difference,” Laura says. “This is a place for me to share my sense of humor to promote a positive atmosphere.” Age: I never act it, so I’m not telling. If I were president what would I change: The list is way too long for this article. Favorite cartoon character: Peter Puma (he cracks me up). If I could change one thing: Laughter For several weeks now, the Hastings Board of Education has been working to fill the district’s superintendent position. Not many school board members have the opportunity to be part of a board’s most important work, the selection of a new superintendent. For more than 80 years — from 1922 to 2006 — only four men held the top job at Hastings Schools: David A. VanBuskirk, Lee H. Lamb, Richard Guenther and Carl Schoessel. Was that a phenomenon of longevity seen only in Hastings, or has the lack of continuous superintendent service become the trend in modern educational circles? Today, across the state, the turnover in K-12 leadership appears to have become a revolving door. In just the past six years in Hastings, we’ve had two superintendents and an interim superintendent, Michelle Falcon, is presently serving us. For two nights last week, the Hastings Board of Education interviewed five candidates out of a pool of 20 applicants before narrowing the selection to three. Out of the five, only one candidate showed potential to measure up to the four men who held the position for more than eight decades. Each of the candidates commented on Hastings’ long-standing traditions and each is eager to take on the task of restoring the district’s admirable reputation. Yet, after listening to all of the candidates, I felt only one exhibited the credentials required to turn around our troubled system. I think, without a doubt, this is the most important administrative selection in our district’s history — so we must get it right. Terry Urquhart, from Forest Hills, is the best of the five to get the job done; yet I think the board is apprehensive regarding his candidacy because he doesn’t have central office experience. But Urquhart has been a building principal with a $20 million budget and has years of administrative experience — some in the parochial system which is laudable because Catholic schools all over the state operate with tight budgets while maintaining a reputation of turning out quality students year after year. As for Interim Superintendent Michelle Falcon, she never really had a chance for the superintendent’s position because the board appears to be divided on her selection. It’s almost impossible to be in her position and come out a winner. I think the board and our community owes Falcon a great deal of gratitude for her efforts in taking the job under difficult circumstances. Falcon could bring considerable knowledge and valued experience based on her interim superintendent tenure and on her experience as curriculum coordinator. As for the rest of the candidates, they could all do the job, but they don’t rise to the level of competence to do the job Hastings needs today. We don’t have the time for on-the-job-training — we need to hit the ground with a person exhibiting professional confidence. So where do we go from here? Name Urquhart as the next superintendent with Falcon as his assistant or go back to the drawing board and repost the position. Urquhart has the administrative knowledge and years of experience to deal with the complicated issues facing the district. He submitted a plan for his first 90 days, if selected, and set goals and objectives for the district and the board, as well. His plan was about being truthful, honest and upfront with the public by using his proven techniques, which made a difference in the Forest Hills district. With Urquhart’s leadership skills and Falcon’s passion for creating a curriculum with a focus on student achievement, together they could put our district on the path to a better, stronger and more competitive district in short order. I wrote about the administrative problem just six years ago, when former superintendent Chris Cooley stepped down after less than three years on the job. What do you The pattern is obvious. Superintendents, up until 15 to 20 years ago, generally stayed in the same position for more than 15 years. More recently, however, it’s rare for a school chief to stick around more than five years. And sometimes these superintendents and their school districts have had a parting of the ways that has been less than amicable. So what’s the problem? The issue I identified six years ago has become even more evident in recent years. Politicians want to reinvent the system — making it more measurable — whether it works or not. They are determined to measure students as they progress through the system, whether they achieve at grade level or not. Education isn’t easy, and it shouldn’t be. Yet, it’s become even more serious as government has become fixated on measuring rather than concentrating on individual outcomes. If we expect our school district to be successful, we must promote a climate of dedication at all levels. Students, teachers, staff and parents alike must all focus on educating our young students to their greatest abilities. For the district to return to the high standards we once enjoyed, we must find a leader who understands the importance of setting high expectations and accountability to get our students prepared for the world of work, the military or going on to college. The Schools of Choice program has pitted districts throughout the area against one another to recruit students to their schools. Hastings has suffered losses in recent years, adding to its financial woes. And, due to our state’s sluggish economy, we shouldn’t expect state government to solve our problems anytime soon. So, choosing the right candidate is imperative. As Urquhart said in his interview, “you need someone that will take you where you want to go. It took years to get into this mess, so it’s going to take some time to find a way out. Yet, it’s necessary that we — the school board, administrators, teachers, staff and community — work together to make it happen as soon as possible. When, Carl Schoessel interviewed for the superintendent’s position here in January 1983, Hastings’ interim superintendent Robert Miller outlined serious issues facing the district in the coming months. Miller warned of “payless paydays, cash flow shortages” and an overall grim financial picture for the district.” At the time, the district was making a pitch for an increase in the operational millage to keep programs going for students. Now, nearly 30 years later, we are again looking for new leadership while considering a special millage to keep the system afloat. State education experts are also monitoring struggling school districts that are dealing with out-of-control deficits. The number of school districts in the red has soared in recent years, causing the state to pass Public Act 4, or what is commonly known as the emergency manager law, to assist struggling districts. To some, the problems might seem impossible, but if we expect success, then we must find the right person to lead the charge of returning the district to the legacy of the past — by creating a strong foundation to build on as we did when Schoessel was named to the superintendent’s post by a unanimous board vote nearly 30 years ago. Former Interim Superintendent Robert Miller warned the community of our obligation to educate the leaders of tomorrow, by providing them with a quality education that will last a lifetime. Those words shouldn’t be considered a campaign slogan. They must become our community’s dedication to our students as they pass through our local school system. Fred Jacobs, vice president, J-Ad Graphics think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. Don’t forget to leave an opinion or comment. Laura Bosworth would fix everything. When I grow up: I want to own a disco roller rink. Person I most admire: My mom. She loves unconditionally. Favorite things: Singing in my car, funny videos, riding quads and roller skating. Best advice: Life is short — have no regrets. Last week’s question: On Wednesday, Michigan Educational Assessment Program were released for every Michigan school district. Because the state raised minimum passing scores, most schools expected results to be down dramatically. Do you think MEAP scores accurately reflect the educational quality of your local school? 14 percent 86 percent Yes No For this week: Do you plan to vote in Tuesday’s presidential primary? q q Yes No �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 23, 2012 — Page 5 Board of education contracts for budgeting assistance MEAP, continued from page 1 improved from 70.5 percent in 2008 to 77.90 percent in 2011. In a message on the school’s website, curriculum director Tim McMillen wrote, “The new cut scores represent a significantly higher standard for student achievement and are intended to more accurately reflect a student’s progress toward college and career readiness. On some tests, students previously could have answered as few as 40 percent of the questions correctly to be considered proficient. Under the new scoring system, students will have to correctly answer a much higher percentage of questions. “If a student is reported as ‘not proficient,’ it does not mean that he or she isn’t gaining academic skills or knowledge expected for his or her grade level,” he wrote. “It means that on the day of the test, this student was not yet proficient on the material being tested. Many students may require additional help and/or time to master these skills. Actually, by the time parents and the school receive the MEAP/MME results from the state, many students identified as ‘not proficient’ will have closed the gap.” “The MEAP scores present a new challenge for Lakewood that we will deal with. We are encouraged that we have more scores above the state’s [average] than below. But we want to improve in all areas so our children are college and career ready,” concluded McMillen. Maple Valley “Maple Valley Schools are very proud of the hard work demonstrated by our students on the fall MEAP assessments,” said Maple Valley Superintendent Ronna Steel. “Our teachers continue to work on aligning their daily work with the state standards to provide a strong comprehensive and cohesive curriculum. “We were very excited to see significant gains in fifth through seventh grade reading and third and fifth grade math,” she said. “We also saw gains in fourth grade writing and eighth grade science. We are heading in the right direction and are looking forward to better scores next year.” Thornapple Kellogg Assistant Superintendent Tom Enslen said for the most part, Thornapple Kellogg MEAP scores are about what district officials expected. “We’re not unlike any other school district. There is a bit of a shock factor when you first see the scores, and it appears to be lower than in the past,” said Enslen, noting the main reason being the state’s adjustment of the cut scores. Most importantly, Enslen said, is to remember that the MEAP is one report, but not the whole story. “We have other assessment tools we look at to determine more accurately where our students are at,” he said. Enslen said the district is working hard to review the MEAP scores, identify areas of weakness and work on ways to improve in those areas while still maintaining strengths in others. In comparison with past years, Enslen said overall the district remains strong with scores still well above the state average and in the upper third of the Kent Intermediate School District average. “There are always areas for improvement, and that’s what we’re always looking for,” he said. The Hastings school districts, at the state level, has changed that much in five years. Are there one-time gimmicks that they didn’t have five, 10 years ago? Yeah. But, when you look at per-pupil funding, it’s been in place; that has not changed. How the board handles it may have changed, but, per-pupil funding has not changed ... The amount has certainly changed. But, if the source of revenue has not changed, I struggle with us suddenly to come up with a new methodology to make it work for the system when we know, next year, [perpupil funding] is going to look the same as it does this year, or less ... The way we are funded has not changed. “I know Don and he does great work,” added Patton. “It’s just a struggle for me to spend $22,000, $23,000 when there are very comparable options within our district, that work here.” Beck said, with multiple changes in administration that have occurred in recent years, district director of finance Barb Hunt has been pulled in different directions as to how to prepare a budget. He also said that the central office has less staff since Falcon stepped into the interim superintendent role, and her previous post as assistant superintendent has remained open. “It hasn’t been consistent,” Beck said. “The board, we labor though it and we understand it, and we look at it more than anyone. We need a system that anyone can understand and is going to be consistent, year to year, and looks ... at the future plus is going to be able to save us money ... We looked at this and think it’s the way to go.” “Basically, he’s coming in and providing us with a new methodology, setting it up, training the staff, so that after he departs, they are able to carry on and follow up and continue that so that we do have consistency in the budgeting process,” said Trustee and finance committee member Gene Haas. “Even though I am loathe to spend any money, whatsoever, I think this is going to pay for itself,” said Beck. Falcon said Savoy has an outstanding reputation among his peers, and during his 34 years in Charlotte Public Schools, the district maintained a fund balance of over 10 percent. “He has passed 24 bond issues during his career,’ she said. “He retired last year and started his own business. He not only consults with schools. He also consults with municipalities on millages and also in budget processing ... His work speaks for itself.” Savoy is a certified public accountant, chief financial officer and emergency manager. He earned a bachelor of arts degree in accounting from Michigan State University. His professional experience includes working as a CPA for Lyle D. Hepfer and Company; an associate superintendent for business, interim superintendent, and director of business affairs for Charlotte Public Schools; and business and financial manager for PCMI West in CORNBEEF & CABBAGE DINNER GREEN’S Medical Marijuana Clinic Saturday, March 10 109 N. 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Call 269-963-8737 for more info. www.greensmedical.com • Professional, Economical & Personal TAX & Accounting Services 77566049 Banner The to the NCCAA All-American National Champions on their win in the 4x200 relay from Spring Arbor University Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Casey Cheney Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Helen Mudry • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 77564841 Frederic Jacobs 221 South Jefferson, Hastings, MI Phone: (269) 945-3547 www.kamuelleraccounting.com ® A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 President INCOME TAX TIME IS HERE AGAIN! K.A. Mueller Accounting Hastings Banner, Inc. John Jacobs 77566037 Time to visit... Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Portland. “This would tie in very well with what Michelle has started with the budget-rebuilding process,” said Beck. “He was highly recommended by the Michigan Association of School Boards.” In other business, the board: • Heard a report from Falcon that the budget-rebuilding process is continuing and she and Hunt were working on a couple of budgeting scenarios based on whether the governor’s funding proposal — tying state aid to student achievement — passes and its implications for Hastings Area Schools. • Received a policy committee report regarding the possible adoption of a new bullying policy for the district. Falcon said the board would need to hold a public hearing, which could be held in conjunction with the first reading of the proposed policy. The new policy would address bullying through social media and more. The policy needs to be adopted by June 6 to meet the state deadline for districts to adopt bullying policies. • Heard a presentation from Don Spachman, pastor of Hastings First United Methodist Church regarding a proposal to bring Group Cares, a Christian youth ministry, to Hastings during the summer of 2013. Group Cares would bring teens from around the Midwest to Hastings for one week to do work, such as painting, roofing, drywall and carpentry, for elderly and the disabled residents in and around the city of Hastings. Group Cares would work with the Barry County United Way and other local churches and agencies to identify 50 to 70 individuals and families in need. Spachman said that because of the number of teens expected to participate, Group Cares would like to partner with Hastings Area Schools to house the students. He said the district would be reimbursed for staffing, food, utilities, custodial services and any other expenses incurred during the teens’ stay. Falcon was directed work with Spachman, looking into the program and what it would mean for Hastings Area Schools and the community and report whether action by the board would be required. • Was informed that the next scheduled public information session for the proposed recreational millage is scheduled for 7 p.m. Thursday, March 1, in the Hastings High School lecture hall, 520 W. South St. • Heard a report from Falcon on the ad hoc committee that is being formed to discuss possible collaboration between schools in the Barry Intermediate School District. Board Secretary Donna Garrison and Trustee Patricia Endsley volunteered to serve on the committee as representatives of the Hastings Board of Education. • Went into closed session to discuss information regarding negotiations. No action was taken after the board returned to open session. Bedford Order of Eastern Star #471 77565947 by Mark Martin Hastings Middle School Assistant Principal Studies show that the most important component of a student’s success is the home environment. It is common knowledge that the first five years of a child’s life are the most crucial time in his or her life. That is the time when a child’s physical, mental, social and emotional functioning is developing at the most dramatic rate. Early childhood is the period of life when humans are most dependent on secure, responsive relationships with others (adults, siblings and peers), not just to ensure their survival, but also their emotional security, social integration and cognitive and cultural competencies. Early childhood is a natural focus of parents and teachers alike because of the shared transition that takes place in a child’s life. Parents are, for the first time, entrusting their child to someone other than the primary caregiver, for several hours a day. The transition that occurs when a child starts school is difficult, but is much smoother when a child has a solid base of support from home. In fact, this is true for every stage of change a child goes through in his or her life, whether in or out of school. Children will undergo major changes in their educational environments as they move from elementary to middle school, middle school to high school and high school to the work place, military or college setting. Parents or parent figures who are involved and supportive can offer advice, or just a listening ear make all the difference. Many things have changed over the years in the homes and schools. Probably the most notable changes have been in the area of technology. The first revolutions that I recall from my middle school years were when teachers went from showing reel-to-reel movies to showing VHS movies. Students went from eight-track tapes to cassette tapes in our cars. I took a class in 10th grade called Typing and, by the time I was a senior, I took a new class called Computer Science. By the time I was out of college, it was normal for people to have cable television, CD players, personal computers and video game consoles. A few years later, the Internet became available and, eventually, PSPs, MP3s, iPods and cell phones. Teachers began replacing their chalkboards, first with whiteboards and laser projectors, then with Smart boards and Elms. Several great innovations in technology have enhanced our lives at home and at school. One thing, however, has not changed over the years: the importance of a supportive home. While it is true that the family structure is different than what it was 25 years ago, it does not mean that it is still the most important part of a kid’s life and of a student’s education. No one is perfect and, therefore, no home is perfect. Nonetheless, what kids need most is someone in their lives who: show them love and compassion; who cares about them while they are at home and at school; will keep track of how they are doing in school; knows who the child’s friends are and what they are like; will make changes in their schedules to meet with teachers, if necessary; is not afraid to say ‘no;’ and has the strength to follow through with consequences, good or bad. Many families in Hastings are raising great kids, and for that I am thankful. I am also thankful for the opportunity I have to assist those who want to reach the same goals but may be in need of a little help. Parents really do make all of the difference. 77566062 The parent factor – a constant among the variables by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer As the Hastings Board of Education is reopening its teacher contracts, asking voters to approve a 10-year 1.6 mill recreational levy during the May 8 election and beginning its budget-rebuilding process, it has approved an agreement with an independent contractor to help with its budgeting process. Tuesday, during its regular work session for February, the Hastings Board of Education approved the contract by a 6-1 vote with board Vice President Dan Patton, dissenting. The contract is with Don Savoy of Charlotte, owner of School and Municipal Advisory Services, at $135 an hour for an estimated 168 hours of services; an approximate total cost to the district of $22,680. Hastings Area Schools Interim Superintendent Michelle Falcon said that while the board tries to avoid voting on action items during its work sessions, it was necessary to do so in this instance because of the timeline involved. Savoy began work with the district Thursday, Feb. 23. In his proposal, Savoy said he will create a transparent and collaborative need-based, or zero-based budget system, including staff training and review. “This proposal is intended to work with the board of education, central office personnel and administrative staff to establish a system of budgeting that will effectively serve the district well for years to come,” he wrote. “The system is designed to best meet the needs of students in concert with board vision, goals and objectives. “This project includes working with district personnel on the construction of a longterm budget forecasting model, as well as the development of an interactive Excel spreadsheet for use in cost determination of contract negotiations.” Falcon said the proposal had the approval of the district’s finance committee. Board President and finance committee member Kevin Beck concurred. “We’re at the point, with the latest budget amendment, which is coming out Monday [during the regular monthly meeting of the Hastings board of education], that we have no money whatsoever,” he said. “To have a consultant that is not going to more than pay for itself is not something that I think we’re interested in. We’ve come to the conclusion that is not the case here ... This will pay for itself. And in our long-range planning we’ve had difficulties ... with both in the budgeting process and being transparent. It’s hard for people to know exactly what is in the budget and also, having an inconsistent system ... in the last few years ...” “What I am struggling with is ... What has changed with school financing over the last five years that we would have to pay an individual $25,000 to come in and tell us what to do,” said Patton. “I don’t think financing for From left, Tamera Bean, a senior from Swartz Creek, MI; Jessica Czinder, a sophomore from Hastings, MI; Jessica Lee, a sophomore from Hastings, MI; and Kayla Finkbeiner, also a sophomore from Freeland, MI. 77566060 �Page 6 — Thursday, February 23, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Hastings school board waits to announce results of first-round interviews by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer The Hastings Board of Education has announced that Monday, Feb. 27, during its regular February meeting, it will name the superintendent candidates invited to partici- pate in a second round of interviews. “After the interviews ... we said we would announce the second round of interviews tonight. We are not going to do that,” said board of education president Kevin Beck, at the start the board’s of education work session Worship Together… 77565925 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. ORANGEVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH 6921 Marsh Rd., 2 miles south of Gun Lake, Plainwell. Phone 269664-4377. OrangevilleBaptist. org. Pastors Dan Bowman and Adam Parmenter. Sunday - 9:45 a.m. Adult Classes Offered: 1) Book of James; 2) Book of Jude; 3) Young Adult Class. Children, teen and adult Sunday School classes; 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Worship; 5:30 p.m. Junior and Senior High Word of Life Clubs. Tuesday - 9 a.m. Men’s Prayer and Bible Study. Wednesday - 6:30 p.m. Pre-school through 6th grade Word of Life Gophers & Olympians. Prayer & Bible Study 7 p.m. 6 p.m. Teen Word of Life. Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University - 13 weeks - JanuaryMarch. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Paul Osborn, Minister of Music; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service, Jr. & Sr. High Groups. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. HASTINGS SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH 904 Terry Lane, Hastings (or on the corner of Starr School Road and Terry Lane.) Phone: (269) 9452170. Pastor Michael Wise. Sabbath www.hastingssda.com (Saturday) School 9:30 a.m.; worship service 10:50 a.m. Mid-week meetings informal study and prayer service, Wednesdays 7 p.m. Youth ministry clubs, Adventurers for preschool to 4th grade students and Pathfinders for 5th grade students through high school, meet on the first and third Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. and first and third Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. respectively. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. CHURCH OF THE LIVING GOD A full gospel church. 1240 W. State Rd., Hastings. Pastor Doug Davis. 269-948-9740. Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study 6 p.m. Sunday School and Youth Group for all ages. Come and worship the Lord with us! . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Phone 269-721-8077. Minister Ryan Wieland 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Praise Worship Service; Noon alternate weekends Youth Group Tuesday. Covenant Prayer Group, Wednes-day 6:30 p.m., Choir Practice. Thursday 7 p.m. Praise Band Practice. 2nd and 4th Thursdays at 7 p.m. Christ’s Quilters. Friday 6:30 p.m., CPRChrist’s Plan for Recovery (meal served). For more information small groups, special evnts or if you have a prayer requst, call the church office and see postings on WEB site: www.countrychapel.umc.org. SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North Amer-ica and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Cronk cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 2 p.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-797-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS REFORMED CHURCH “A Historic Reformed Community.” Sunday morning services begin at 10 a.m. Meeting at the Barry County Commission on Aging building, 320 W. Woodlawn Ave., Hastings. Pastor: Peter Adams. 616-690-8609 padams@juno.com. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 9:15 Contemporary Worship, 10:30 a.m. Refreshments, 11 a.m. Traditional Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Pastor of Senior Adults and Visitation, Don Brail. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. for children, youths and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Senior High Youth Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Mid-Week: 6:30-7:45 p.m. Pioneer Clubs, age 4th to 5th grade, and Junior High Youth Group, 6th-8th grade. Thursday: 10 a.m. Senior Adult Discussion and 11:30 a.m., lunch at Wendy’s. FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 10 a.m. Youth Worship Service; 6 p.m. No Youth Group. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot.com. Thursday - 9 a.m. Men’s Bible Study; 11:30 Women’s Brown Bag Bible Study; 1-7 p.m. Blood Drive; 6:30 p.m. Choir Rehearsal. Monday - 4 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 5 p.m. Pickleball. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Fiberglass Products 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 Todd Geerlings Tuesday evening. “We are still running down a few references and chasing down a couple rumors and just trying to make sure we have our ducks in a row ... I’ve been reminded several times, it is probably one of, or the, most important decision that we make, and I don’t want any of the board members to feel rushed.” The Hastings Board of Education started with a 20 applicants for the superintendent post and selected five candidates for the first round of interviews, which were conducted Wednesday, Feb. 15, and Thursday, Feb. 16: Timothy Allard, assistant superintendent and elementary school principal for Galien Public Schools; Hastings Area Schools Interim Superintendent Michelle Falcon; Mona Shores Public Schools Assistant Superintendent Todd Geerlings; Sean McNatt, the superintendent of Breckenridge Community Schools; and Forest Hills Central High School Principal Terry Urquhart. During the interviews, each candidate was allotted one hour to answer a series of 22 questions prepared by Barry Intermediate School Board Superintendent Jeff Jennette, who volunteered his time to spearhead the search. The questions were compiled based on discussions with board members, business leaders in the community and input from the public during two community forums. Each candidate was asked as many of the questions as time allowed. Allard earned a bachelor of science degree in language arts from Western Michigan University and a master of arts degree in education and education leadership from Grand Valley State University. Prior to assuming his present post with Galien Public Schools, he served as the West Campus administrator and At-Risk coordinator for Otsego’s West Campus High School from 2010 to 2011. While at Otsego, he started a new alternative education program at the middle school, developed curriculum, evaluated students and served as the district’s 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 Michelle Falcon homeless liaison coordinator. Allard’s other professional experience includes principal of Dix Street Elementary in Otsego, 2003 through 2010; Otsego Middle School principal 1998 through 2003; Otsego Middle School assistant principal and athletic director, 1997 through 1998; student services coordinator for Martin Public Schools, 1996 through 1997; language arts teacher at Martin Public Schools, 1989 through 1996. In addition, Allard served as Martin’s varsity softball coach for seven years, eighth grade basketball coach for four years, junior varsity football assistant coach for two years and eighth grade girls basketball coach for two years. When asked where he thought the Hastings district is going, and what he could do to help it get there, Allard replied, “I know that finances are an issue in any district, and I know Hastings wants to build a fund balance and that is going to take some partnerships and collaborations with the community ... I see this as a school that has an excellent tradition and that tradition, in these tough economic times has to continue and grow and that student achievement should always be at the forefront of what happens, and we need to get the most bang for the buck in these difficult financial times.” Allard said as one person, he would not be able to get the district where it needs to go. “It takes collaboration,” he said. “Our constituents, our students are always in the forefront ... we need a strong administrative team, that we have the same vision and are open and transparent with the board of education, and the goals that they would have as a board, and the goals they would have for me as your superintendent, and the direction they would want to move this district. I think it would involve a lot of collaboration, a lot of discussion about where we are at, where we want to go and how we are going to get there ... It would be a team effort.” Allard said the main person, the person he Area Obituaries Phyllis (Slater) Powell GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Sunday, Feb. 26 - Worship at 8 & 10:45 a.m. 9:30 a.m. Sunday School. Holy Communion Every Sunday! Men’s AA @ 7:00. Feb. 27 Adventurers Faith Bible Study @ 7:00. Feb. 29 - Wordwatchers Bible Study @ 10 a.m. March 1 - Clapper Kids Bell Choir @ 3:45; Hare Raisers @ 7:00; Adult Choir @ 7:00. 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-9459414 or 945-2645, fax 269-9452698. Pastor Amy Luckey http://www.discovergrace.org ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nash-ville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 or -517-852-1806. Lauer Family Funeral Homes Timothy Allard HASTINGS, MI - Phyllis (Slater) Powell, age 84, of Hastings, went to be with her loved ones in Heaven and to join her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, February 22, 2012. She was preceded in death by her husband, Orville; her grandson, Mark Shriver II; her parents, Richard and Edna Slater, Sr.; and brother, Richard Slater, Jr. Surviving are her children, Susan Alexander, Mark (Loretta) Shriver, Grant Shriver, Carolyn Powell; her grandchildren, Marty Allerding, Victoria (Bey) Hudson, Jeremy Shriver; four great-grandchildren; many great-great-grandchildren; a sister-inlaw, Lois Slater; many nieces and nephews; and good friends whom she enjoyed, including Darla Heckman, and the nurses and staff of MagnumCare of Hastings, where she resided the last five years. The funeral service will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, February 25, 2012 at Stroo Funeral Chapel, with Rev. Mark Bergsma officiating. Interment in Langston Cemetery. Contributions in memory of Phyllis may be given to the American Cancer Society. The family will greet visitors on Friday February 24, from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. at Stroo Funeral Home, 1095 68th St. SE. www.stroofuneralhome.com. Helen M. [Goodson] Belson GLENDALE, AZ - Helen M. [Goodson] Belson, age 94, went to be with the Lord on Monday, February 6, 2012, after a short illness. She passed away at Sunrise Nursing Home in Glendale, AZ. She was born on February 9, 1917, near Portland, IN. She was the daughter of Leland H. and Elva M. [Gagle] Goodson. Helen married Maurice D. Belson on November 20, 1937, in Maple Grove Township. She resided in Hastings and then later Nashville until her husband’s death in 1995 when she moved to her daughter’s home in Glendale, AZ. Helen was a loving wife and mother. She loved caring for her plants, crocheting, crafts, reading and working crossword puzzles. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 58 years, Maurice D. Belson; her sister, Lucile [Gaylord] Gray; and two brothers, Marvin Goodson and Thomas Goodson. Surviving are her daughter, Dawn M. [Belson] Brown; her son-in-law, Daniel H. Brown; brother, Melvin [Virginia] Goodson; sisters, Marjorie [Paul] Guy and Ruby Peyton; and many nieces and nephews. A gathering of remembrance will be held later on a date to be announced. Sean McNatt Terry Urquhart would work closest with when developing a budget, would be the district’s business manager. “I also think that, obviously, I would have open communication with the board of education, and I would want to partner with the teacher and any collective-bargaining units that exist,” he said. “It has to be a bipartisan effort. “As far as my experience with budgets, as a building principal at the middle school and the elementary level, I had the responsibility of overseeing budgets in those buildings that were over a million dollars apiece,” said Allard. “A way that we could help grow a fund balance was to be fiscally responsible ... This year as a superintendent, I have had the most experience in developing budgets and looking very closely, line item by line item ... We were able to, this year, make significant cuts and pull ourselves out of a deficit ... Galien will continue to have some deficits because of financial situations that they created in the years prior to me getting there ... but, as far as this particular year, we will finish the year reducing that deficit. Again, that has been a collaborative effort.” Allard said he is planing to attend the Michigan Negotiations Association conference in March. “I am doing that to better myself in negotiations,” he said. “Our collective bargaining agreement this year is up, so I will have the opportunity to have to negotiate a contract with our teachers. Mid-year this year we had to talk about opening the contract as a possible cost-saving measure because of the deficit elimination plan ... I have the experience of working with the union and their representative, and I’ve done it from the other side as well, as a teacher ... I’ve had some experience.” When asked about his experience with strategic planning, Allard said the best example would be his work in Otsego. “Our administrative team would meet on a regular basis, at least monthly, sometimes bimonthly,” he said. “At those meetings, the strategic plans was always at the forefront of our decision making ... At the end of every school year we would always looked at the goals the board had— the goals for the district, and we would break up in small teams and look at what we had accomplished, what were our points of pride for the school, what do we still need to work on. “I think a strategic plan ... starts with the end in mind but it has to be a team effort,” said Allard. “A team plan comes from involving all the constituents ... it involves parents, students, board members, administration, and the strategic plan is built from there ... I think I have some great resources of people I can network with, as well.” When asked to describe any outside revenue he had achieved outside of normal state funding, Allard said he said his district had qualified for special state fund through the Best Practices incentive program, and Otsego passed a successful bond issue while he was there. “I know what it takes a successful bond issue, and I’ve had a lot of experience with that,” he said. Allard said he also worked with the community foundations, PTOs and boosters. “There are groups that are organized with the school that raise funds that generate revenue that can offset the general fund cost,” he said. “Sinking funds are a way of doing that ... ” When asked how he would handle a potentially explosive situation, Allard said, “I think it’s about taking your time and listening and not always feeling like you have to everything in detail.” Allard said his most creative idea for education to date, has been the budgeting process Continued next page Ray L. Girrbach Owner/Director 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 • 269-945-3252 Serving Hastings, Barry County and Surrounding Communities for 45 years •Traditional and Cremation Services •Pre-Planning Services •Large Parking Lot - Handicap Accessible •Serving All Faiths •Pre-arrangement Transfers Accepted Family Owned and Operated www.girrbachfuneralhome.net �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 23, 2012 — Page 7 BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY by Gerald Stein NORTH N: 2 M: 10 8 4 L: A K 10 6 5 4 K: 8 7 6 WEST N: J 8 6 5 3 M: Q 5 L: Q 8 3 K: J 10 5 EAST N: 9 7 4 M: A K 9 3 L: J 9 2 K: Q 4 2 SOUTH: N: A K Q 10 M: J 7 6 2 L: 7 K: A K 9 3 Lead: N5 As Captain M. North finished the last of his Créme brulee and started to sip his after-dinner coffee, he thought back over the afternoon bridge game on board the USS: Barry County Bridge Barge. Most bridge players were quietly finishing their dinner and enjoying the evening coolness on the river. This was the post mortem deal that he as Captain and Bridge Director of the ship was now mulling over. How had 50% of the teams missed this contract while the other 50% had made it with ease? Had there been no plan, no compass to guide them? The bidding had been routine on all of the hands: North had been the dealer, and bid according to their convention, using a weak two bid, promising six diamond cards, five to eleven points, and not much more. It was a most effective preemptive bid unless it caused problems for the partnership. Is that what happened this time? The bidding went as follows: North 2L 3L East Pass Pass South 2NT 3NT West Pass All Pass The opening lead: 5N (Standard lead of fourth down from longest and strongest suit). As South saw the dummy go down, he stopped to make his plan, using a full minute to look over his options. With the spade lead, South saw four spade tricks, two club tricks, and two diamond tricks for a total of eight tricks. He needed nine tricks to make the contract of 3NT. The ninth trick, then must come from the heart suit. South formulated his plan: I will win four spade tricks, cutting off communication with the defenders. I will then lead a heart from my hand toward the M10, planning to eventually set up my JM as my ninth Trick. South then began his plan, calling for N2 from the dummy and winning trick number one in his hand with the N10. He next lead the NA, discarding a diamond from the board. Trick number two was in their pocket. On the third play, South confidently played the NK, knowing that East would now be out of spades. South then led the NQ collecting the four spade tricks as planned. South then led the M2, putting West in a predicament. With only two hearts, West could not afford to duck the trick, and she put up the MQ, winning the trick for the East-West pair. A lead of the good NJ was returned, and the East-West team had won two tricks for its side. West next played her M5, South put up the M10 and East took the trick with the MA. Now East was in a predicament. He surveyed the dummy, and he knew that he must not lead a diamond to the solid diamonds on the board. He could take the MK, or he could lead a small club. It really did not matter which lead he chose as South had done his homework. The plan was almost complete. If East took his MK, then South’s MJ was now his winning heart trick. If East tried a sly lead of the K4, South would take the KA and the KK setting up the K9 as a winner. East and West were both being end-played at this point, not wanting to throw anything away. East finally led the MK. South had finally set up the hearts with the MJ in his hand. He had entries left in his hand with the KA and KK and the good heart trick. All the pressure was on East because he did not know who had the LQ although if South had it, he would have claimed a long time ago with three diamond tricks. But who thinks of those things under intense pressure? He did know that South had the MJ so he knew not to lead his last heart. He finally succumbed to the pressure and led the K4. South took the KK, the MJ, the KA and led the L7 to the LA and LK on the board, making his contract. Captain M. North reflected on this hand as he wiped the last traces of dessert from his lips. “If East had only led the LJ, his partner would have taken eventually the LQ and if she had saved her NJ, the contract would have been set with three heart tricks, one diamond trick, and one spade trick. If... if... if.” Captain M. North stood up from his dessert. “So... a great dessert and a great plan,” he mused. “That combination seems to be a recipe for 100% success.” He smiled as he strolled down the deck toward the galley. (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs.) Newborn Babies Isabella Breanna, born at Pennock Hospital on Feb. 12, 2012 at 4:19 p.m. to Natasha Olin and Shawn Bodell of Nashville. Weighing 8 lbs. 4 ozs. and 21 inches long. ***** Zane Thomas, born at Pennock Hospital on Feb. 7, 2012 at 10:31 p.m. to Kate and Al Weatherwax of Middleville. Weighing 8 lbs. 3 ozs. and 20 1/2 inches long. ***** Maylee Jean, born at Pennock Hospital on Feb. 9, 2012 at 10:11 to Ashley Boyd of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 10 ozs. and 19 inches long. ***** Chloe Elizabeth, born at Pennock Hospital on Feb. 10, 2012 at 9:13 a.m. to Katie Kopka and Jason Kopka of Battle Creek. Weighing 8 lbs. 11 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** TWINS, Kayla Yareli and Abel Antonio, born at Pennock Hospital on Feb. 9, 2012 to Patricia and Francisco Sanchez of Delton. Kayla was born at 1:29 p.m. and weighed 8 lbs. 4 ozs. and 21 inches long. Abel was born at 1:30 p.m. and weighed 8 lbs. 2 ozs. and 21 inches long. ***** Jerica Dai, born at Pennock Hospital on Feb. 9, 2012 at 8:32 p.m. to Jessica Clark of Nashville. Weighing 5 lbs. 12 oz. and 18 1/2 inches long. ***** Tieler AnnMori, born at Pennock Hospital on Feb. 11, 2012 at 3:21 a.m. to Joel and Elly Ibbotson of Hastings. Weighing 8 lbs. 12 ozs. and 21 inches long. Grandparents are Robert and JoAnn Kruko of Hastings and Don and Ruth Ibbotson of Hastings ***** Madeline Ann, born at Pennock Hospital on Feb. 7, 2012 at 7:37 p.m. to Matt and Sami Curtis of Hastings. Weighing 8 lbs. 14 ozs. and 23 inches long. was and where it was going, Falcon said she thinks the district is in the process of reinventing itself. “I think that is where we are; we are reinventing Hastings Area Schools to be great and to be marketable and to be comparable to other districts,” she said. “We strive to be a model ... We want to be competitive. We want to be the school of choice and I am proud to say that I think that is direction is headed.” Falcon said some of the things that the district has done as a staff and a board to help the district move in that direction include improving the school improvement processes and planning and making sure that they remain student- centered, rather than adult-centered. “I think that paradigm shift is happening,” she said. “I think my experience with different federal and state mandates, my connections and experience with curriculum, instruction and assessment and different types of audits ... when it comes to school improvement with federal and state programs, with that knowledge, with my team of leaders and teacher leaders, that we will be able to work together.” Falcon said she does not have a background in finance and her strengths are in curriculum and assessment and leadership. “However, we have proven together — along with the board and the finance committee — that we are trying to endeavor to create a process that is more proactive and looking forward to not just budgeting right now but budgeting for the future,” she said. “We created this together, and I think the stakeholders are represented here at Hastings.” She said in her previous posts she has been responsible for developing both building and curriculum budgets and overseeing state and federal grant funds. She said the budget process should not only involve the superintendent, board and building principals but also union leadership and a cross-section of other stockholders in order to ensure transparency on how the budget is created and the state of the district’s finances. “Hopefully, we are going in that direction,” said Falcon. “I do believe we are. We have our next budget rebuilding meeting next week and we have lots of community input as well as our staff stakeholders.” Regarding her approach to labor negotiations, Falcon said she believes in a collaborative negotiating process, like what was used at Pewamo-Westphalia. “Not a lot of caucasus — it’s always out in the open and together,” she said. “Even the table setup, it’s not one side versus the other ... “I would say my approach is always to be as forthcoming and straightforward and honest as possible when it comes to finances. I don’t know any other way to be but transparent when it comes to that,” said Falcon. “I think you all realize we have been very fortu- See SEARCH, pg. 13 Social News Steps forward — and back — for the world’s nukes by Dr. E. Kirsten Peters My household has no less than three nightlights that give good service to me and mine. Perhaps you have a nightlight or two yourself. And beyond those useful little devices, of course, there are the regular lights that a person may switch on in the middle of a windless night. Those basic facts highlight the idea that we all have need for electrical power in the grid at times that solar and wind can’t help us. The kind of electricity we need at all times is what utilities call baseload power. We get baseload power from burning coal and natural gas, from running generators at hydroelectric dams — and from nuclear power plants. About one-fifth of the total electricity we use in this country comes from nuclear plants. Recently the Nuclear Regulatory Commission gave the nod to plans to build new nuclear plants. What’s at issue is building two reactors at a site that already has nukes, the Vogtle power plant in Georgia. The move got some headlines because it’s the first time in years such a step has been taken here in the U.S. That long drought for the nuclear industry in this country can best be explained in terms of unfortunate turning points in the history of nuclear power, both here and abroad. Our nuclear history got a jolt back in 1979 due to an accident that occurred at the Three Mile Island plant in Pennsylvania. Although no one was injured at Three Mile Island, the politics of where and how we generate electricity changed markedly after the incident. The much more serious Chernobyl disaster in the old Soviet Union stirred up even greater public fears of all things nuclear. But the facts of the matter are that we are going to keep our power grid up and running, including on calm, dark nights. We can’t get much more energy out of dams in the West, so we either are going to burn more fossil fuels to meet our electricity needs or we will make room for at least some new nuclear plants. I recently saw a news piece about a nuclear plant in the Philippines that was built but never used. The Bataan Nuclear Power Plant was finished in 1984. It was planned to be the first operating nuclear facility in Southeast Asia. Electricity in the Philippines is quite high-priced, and it was hoped that nuclear power could help make more abundant and cheaper electricity available for a growing Philippine economy. Uranium to power the plant in the Philippines was flown in from our shores. Workers at the plant worked toward making the facility fully operational. Things looked good to go. But the Chernobyl disaster in 1986 led the authorities in the Philippines to freeze progress at the plant. Still, the pro-nuke faction within the Philippines remained active, and over time made headway. But about the time that it might have won the day, the mega-earthquake and tsunami hit Japan, leading to the disastrous meltdown at the Fukushima power station. Once again, the cards were played out in a way that led the authorities in the Philippines to hold off from making the plant operational. Although the whole nuclear story in the Philippines took place over decades, it now appears to be over. The owners of the plant have turned it into a tourist attraction. The utility in charge says that tours are booked months in advance. In the long story of nuclear power around the globe, it seems the Philippines are taking a step away from nukes while we are taking a step toward them. Obviously, a lot of politics are involved in all such decisions. But when we decide against a power source — whether its nuclear reactors or coal-fired generators — we of necessity are deciding to pursue other options. Because we all want our nightlights to work. Dr. E. Kirsten Peters, a native of the rural Northwest, was trained as a geologist at Princeton and Harvard universities. Follow her online at rockdoc.wsu.edu and on Twitter @RockDocWSU. This column is a service of the College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences at Washington State University. Auditions, Auditions, Auditions “Guys & Dolls” – Spring Musical AUDITION DATE: MON., FEB. 27 - 7-9 PM (CALL-BACKS FEB. 28) Leason Sharpe Hall at the Barry Community Enrichment Center (BCEC) formerly the First Presbyterian Church of Hastings Located at: 231 S. Broadway, Hastings 07593595 in Galien. “I don’t think cutting busing was the most creative decision, nor was it popular, but it was necessary,” he said. “I can tell you, not many districts in the state of Michigan have cut busing; it’s never a popular decision.” He said he also instituted a student of the month program in Galien. “I think kids need to be recognized for the positive things that they do,” said Allard. Falcon has earned a bachelor of science degree in secondary math education, a master of the arts degree in education administration and supervision and is currently working on a doctoral degree in education administration. Before coming to Hastings as the assistant superintendent in August 2010, a post which she held until being named interim superintendent in August 2011, Falcon held the following professional positions: Director of curriculum and instructional technology and Woodland Elementary Principal for Lakewood Public Schools, 2006 through 2010; principal of Pewamo-Westphali Jr./Sr. High School 2002 to 2006; assistant principal of Christian County Middle School in Hopkinsville, Ky., 2000 to 2002; and math teacher and dance team coach and instructor, Hopkinsville, Ky., 1996 to 2002. Falcon started her interview by saying that, as much as possible, she would be referring to her experience prior to coming to Hastings when answering interview questions because the board is already aware of what she has been doing for Hastings Area Schools. When asked where she thought the district If you are unable to audition on the 27th call 269 948 9828 or 269 945 2332 by Feb. 25, 2012 Auditions are open to anyone age 17 or older. No preparation is necessary. Carol Satterly is directing, Laura Soule is music director, Norma Jean Acker is producing. “Guys & Dolls” Performance dates … April 26, 27, 28, May 4, 5 at 7:00pm. Sunday matinee April 29 & May 6 at 2:00 pm. April 26 is dress rehearsal. Rehearsals and performances are at Leason Sharpe Hall at the Barry Community Enrichment Center of Hastings, 231 S. Broadway, Hastings Beduhns to celebrate 65th wedding anniversary Sixty-five years of wedded life will be celebrated on February 20, 2012 by Richard and Kathleen Beduhn. Children of the couple are: Valerie (Lance) Bush, Adam (Bonnie) Beduhn, Rand (Lori) Beduhn, Renée (Chuck) Collins, Shéree (David) Beduhn Newell and Scott Beduhn. They have eight grandchildren and five greatgrandchildren. Please help them celebrate by sending them a card to their home in Arizona: 3725 North Minnesota Avenue, Florence, AZ 85132. Marriage Licenses David Randall Archer, Hickory Corners and Rebecca Lynn Griffioen, Hickory Corners. Vincent Samuel Battiata, Middleville and Samantha Jo Wanamaker, Hermitage, TN. Bennie Bernard Butgereit, Hastings and Tory Nicole Rohrbacher, Hastings. Brett James Leonard, Nashville and Mika Nagai, Otsu, Japan. 77566043 SEARCH, from previous page �Page 8 — Thursday, February 23, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of by Elaine Garlock This weekend is the annual time for the art show at the Depot Complex. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 25, and 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 26. The Freight House will be open Friday for entries to be brought in. This is open to drawings, paintings, oils, water colors, carving or any other form of art. This is the third year for this exhibit. Next weekend, March 2, the Lake Odessa Area Historical Society will host its annual soup supper with a variety of homemade soups. Serving will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Visitors can enjoy food, fellowship and whatever will be on exhibit. Central United Methodist Church will hold a series of Lenten services Thursday evenings for the next five weeks. The service will run from 6:45 to 7:30 p.m. Communion will be served. The Lansing Center hosted a weekend seminar on deer habitat, hunting and judging of antlers from the 2011 hunt. Bruce Garlock of Big Rapids is a certified measurer for Commemorative Bucks. He worked Saturday evening and Sunday morning. The program continued Sunday afternoon, with speakers. He spent Saturday overnight with his local family. More than 30 people attended the MARSP meeting at Ionia High School last Thursday. The speaker was from the Ionia County Commission on Aging, with healthy nutrition as her topic. She stressed the importance of reading labels to ascertain sodium, potassium and other elements, when making choices. The winter monthly supper was at First Congregational Church Feb. 15. The assembled group enjoyed a variety of hot soups with an icy treat for dessert. A larger group than usual attended the Sunday musical event at the cloggers’ barn on Johnson Street. A new group composed of Bill Gonyou and others performed. The Tri-River Museum group met at the Cedar Springs Museum Tuesday morning this week with 30 present. The colorful flyers for the spring tour were distributed. The Morris maple sugar bush had a very early very short season. Depending on weather conditions, there may be another run of sap. Barry Township 2012/2013 Budget Public Hearing Notice The Barry Township Board will hold a Public Hearing on the proposed budget for fiscal year 2012-2013 at the Barry Township Hall on Tuesday, March 6, 2012 @ 6:30 p.m. The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget will be the subject of this hearing. A copy of the budget is available for public inspection at the Township office. The Barry Township Board will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting upon 7 days notice to the Barry Township Board. Note: individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Barry Township Board by writing or calling the following: Barry Township Board Phone: 269-623-5171 P.O. Box #705 Fax: 269-623-8171 Delton, MI 49046 email@ barrytownship@mei.net Respectfully, Debra J. Knight, Clerk 07593526 THE ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP BOARD OF REVIEW will be held at the Orangeville Township Hall, 7350 Lindsey Road, Plainwell, MI 49080 on the following dates. Tuesday, March 6, Organizational Meeting – 4:00 pm Monday, March 12, Appeal Hearing – 9:00 am to 12:00 noon and 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm Tuesday, March 13, Appeal Hearing – 1:30 pm to 4:30 pm and 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm The Board of Review will meet as many more days as deemed necessary to hear questions, protests and to equalize the 2012 assessments. By Board resolution, residents are able to protest by letter, provided protest letter is received by March 12, 2012. Written protests should be mailed to: BOARD OF REVIEW 7350 LINDSEY RD. PLAINWELL, MI 49080 The tentative ratios and the estimated multipliers for each class of real property and personal property for 2012 are as follows: 77566016 Agricultural . . . . . . . . . . . . 63.48% . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.7876 Commercial . . . . . . . . . . . 49.44% . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.0113 Industrial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55.53% . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.9004 Residential . . . . . . . . . . . . 50.07% . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.9986 Personal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50.00% . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.0000 (ADA) Americans with Disabilities Notice: Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Clerk at least seven (7) days in advance of hearing. This notice posted in Compliance with PA 267 of 1976 as amended (Open Meetings Act) MCLA41.72a (2)(3) and with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contacts – Clerk, Jennifer Goy, 269-664-4522; Supervisor, Thomas Rook, 616-299-6019 The Hastings Charter Township Board of Review for 2012 will be held at the Township Hall at 885 River Road, Hastings, MI 49058 on the following dates: Tuesday, March 6 Organization Meeting 1 pm Wednesday, March 14 Appeal Hearing 9-12 Noon & 6-9 pm Thursday, March 15 Appeal Hearing 9-12 Noon & 1-4 pm The Board of Review will meet as many more days as deemed necessary to hear questions, protests, and to equalize the 2012 assessments. Written protests may be sent to the above address by Tuesday, March 13, 2012. The tentative ratios and the estimated multiplier for each class of real property for 2012 are as follows: CLASS RATIO MULTIPLIER Agricultural 55.08% 0.9078 Commercial 53.60% 0.9328 Industrial 54.10% 0.9242 Residential 50.37% 0.9927 Developmental None in class Timber Cutover None in class Jim Brown, Supervisor Hastings Charter Township Ph. 269.948.9690 Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the township clerk at least seven (7) days in advance of the hearing. This notice posted in compliance with PA 267 of 1976 as amended (Open Meetings Act) MCLA41.72a(2)(3) and with the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA). 77565937 Put power of tax deferral to work As an investor, you may sometimes feel frustrated. After all, your portfolio seems to be at the mercy of the financial markets, whose volatility is beyond anyone’s control. Yet you can control the quality of the investments you own and the diversification of those investments to improve your chances of attaining your long-term financial goals. One way in which to do so is to put as much as you can afford, year after year, into tax-deferred investments. When you contribute to a tax-deferred account, your money has the potential to grow faster than it would if you placed it in a fully taxable investment — that is, an investment on which you paid taxes every year. Over time, this accelerated growth can add up to a big difference in your accumulated savings. For example, if you put $200 each month into a taxable investment that earned a hypothetical 7 percent a year, you’d end up with about $325,000 after 40 years, assuming you were in the 25 percent federal tax bracket. If you put that same $200 per month into a tax-deferred investment that earned the same hypothetical 7 percent a year, you’d accumulate about $515,000 — or nearly $200,000 more than you’d have with the taxable investment.* Of course, you will eventually have to pay taxes on the tax-deferred investment, but by the time you’re retired, you might be in a lower tax bracket. Furthermore, depending on how much you choose to withdraw each year from your tax-deferred account, you can have some control over the amount of taxes you’ll pay. Clearly, tax deferral can be a smart choice, but what sort of tax-deferred vehicles are available? One of your most attractive choices will be your employer-sponsored retirement plan, such as a 401(k). Your earnings have the potential to grow on a tax-deferred basis, and since you typically fund your plan with pretax dollars, the more you put in, the lower your annual taxable income. If you’re lucky, your employer will even match some of your contributions. Consequently, it’s almost always a good idea to put in as much as you can afford into your 401(k), up to the contribution limits, and to boost your contributions every time your salary increases. In 2012, you can contribute up to $17,000 to your 401(k), plus an additional $5,500 if you’re 50 or older. Even if you participate in a 401(k) plan, you can probably also contribute to a traditional IRA. Your earnings have the potential to grow tax-deferred and your contributions may be tax deductible, depending on your income level. In 2012, you can put in up to $5,000 to a traditional IRA, or $6,000 if you’re 50 or older. (If you meet certain income guidelines, you might be eligible to contribute to a Roth IRA, which offers taxfree earnings, provided you don’t start taking withdrawals until you’re 59-1/2 and you’ve had your account at least five years.) Finally, if you’ve “maxed out” on both your 401(k) and your IRA, you may want to consider a fixed annuity. Your earnings grow taxdeferred, contribution limits are high, and you can structure your annuity to provide you with an income stream you can’t outlive. The more years in which you invest in taxdeferred vehicles, the better. So start putting the power of tax deferral to work soon. *This hypothetical example is for illustrative purposes only and does not represent a specific investment or investment strategy. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 29.62 +.35 AT&T 30.34 +.27 BP PLC 47.16 +.69 CMS Energy Corp 21.55 -.06 Coca-Cola Co 68.82 -.08 Eaton 51.94 +.20 Family Dollar Stores 54.20 -2.89 Fifth Third Bancorp 13.91 +.61 Flowserve CP 117.86 +.70 Ford Motor Co. 12.53 +.05 General Mills 38.23 -1.57 General Motors 27.06 +1.66 Intel Corp. 27.16 +.38 Kellogg Co. 51.96 +1.66 McDonald’s Corp 100.49 +.94 Pfizer Inc. 21.22 -.11 Ralcorp 74.41 -.14 Sears Holding 50.94 +2.17 Spartan Motors 5.91 +.04 Spartan Stores 17.95 +.44 Stryker 53.33 -.19 TCF Financial 11.21 +.19 Walmart Stores 60.07 -2.15 Gold $1,759.33 +38.45 Silver $34.38 -.80 +87 Dow Jones Average 12,965 Volume on NYSE 760M +67M BUILDINGS, continued from page 1 BOARD OF REVIEW MEETING SCHEDULE HASTINGS CHARTER TOWNSHIP BOARD OF REVIEW MEETING SCHEDULE EDWARD JONES A single point of building entry was one of 10 items MacDonell presented to commissioners as they consider the security aspects of a larger building-use plan. The others: • Establish a permanent security committee with representative from all levels of county staffing. MacDonell said a recent survey indicated that 65 percent of all Michigan counties have no active security committee. • Develop a comprehensive security manual covering policies and procedures for every possibility, including extreme weather events, as well as crisis situations. • Relocate all courtrooms into one building in which comprehensive security is used. At its Jan. 19 strategic planning meeting, the county board listed as a non-negotiable item the retention of the Barry County Circuit Court in its present historic home in the courthouse. • Establish weapon screening at the single point of entry to a building. • Install a video surveillance system that will track all entrance and exit points of a building. • Institute electronic card readers for building access. An electronic card system can eliminate total building access to all employees and will provide a record of time and use by specific card users. • Install alarms that are tested monthly and on which all employees receive training. • Establish separate parking for judges and prisoner transport vans. Parking signage for judges should not indicate their titles, but rather a more non-descript designation such as “Reserved.” Need wedding invitations? Check out the large selection at Printing Plus 1351 N. M-43 Hwy., Hastings just north of city limits • Redesign all windows and counters currently allowing physical access to county employees and records. Commissioner Ben Geiger asked MacDonell for a timeline for implementation of the outlined recommendations, citing the example of Ionia County’s similarly-styled courthouse and the security upgrades made there. “One of the things that took them a little bit was getting everyone on board, and the second part was getting all the signs posted,” replied MacDonell. “You could do that in this building in a day but then trying to get everybody acclimated to it is going to take some time. It would take 30 days to two months to get it to where it’s an accepted practice.” No decisions were made regarding MacDonell’s presentation. Also appearing before the commission Tuesday was Jim Dull, who announced his candidacy for a Board of Commission seat serving District 7. In other business, the commission recommended for approval at its Feb. 28 official meeting: • A $20,000 budget amendment to its solid waste fund allowing for the hiring of a consultant to assist with recycling planning. “What we’re looking for is an assessment of what is happening in recycling right now in Barry County,” said Solid Waste Oversight Committee Chair Joanne Barnard. “We’re trying to get a baseline of what percent of our public is using recycling so that any program we implement in the future we need to know if it’s better than [the baseline].” • The re-appointment of Doug Hartough to a one-year term as a citizen-at-large representative on the tax allocation board. • The appointment of Christine Hiar to a three-year term and to Commissioner Ben Geiger to the remainder of a three-year term on the Southwest Michigan Substance Abuse Advisory Council. • The appointment of Geoffrey Stevens to the remainder of a four-year term on the central dispatch board. • The appointments of Regina Young, L. Michael Snyder, Keith Murphy and Anne Bush to three-year terms on the Charlton Park Village and Museum Board, and the appointment of Rick Moore to fill the remaining term following the resignation of Keith Leathers. • The appointment of Rebecca Neal to a one-year term on the Animal Control/Shelter Advisory Board. • The appointment of Pamela Strode to a three-year term on the zoning board of appeals. The next meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners will be in the commission meeting room in the Barry County Courthouse Tuesday, Feb. 28, at 9 a.m. 77566003 RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP NOTICE OF BOARD OF REVIEW The Board of Review will meet on Tuesday, March 6, 2012, at 9:00 AM, in the office of the Assessor at Rutland Charter Township Hall, 2461 Heath Road, Hastings, Michigan, to organize and review the Assessment Roll. NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING to hear Assessment APPEALS will be held at the RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP HALL, 2461 Heath Road, Hastings, Michigan on: MONDAY, MARCH 12, 2012 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012 9:00 AM to NOON 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM Also, any other days deemed necessary to equalize the Assessment Roll. CLASS Agriculture PROPERTY ASSESSMENT RATIOS & FACTORS FOR 2011 RATIO MULTIPLIER 45.10% 1.1086 Commercial 61.14% .6114 Industrial 67.74% .7381 Residential 55.18% .9061 Developmental -0- -0- Personal -0- -0– The above ratios and multipliers do not mean that every parcel will receive the same. If you have purchased property, it will be assessed at 50% of market value. If you have improved your property such as additions, new buildings, driveways, etc., this will also reflect in the value of your property. Upon request of any person who is assessed on said roll, or his agent, and upon sufficient cause being shown, the Board of Review will correct the assessment of such property and will, in their judgment, make the valuation thereof relatively just and equal. Dennis McKelvey, Assessor RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP 2461 Heath Road Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 948-2194 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 23, 2012 — Page 9 State News Roundup Delton has first driver training class New law could dissolve county road commissions order, were Indiana, Wisconsin, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Maryland, Connecticut, Florida, Massachusetts, South Carolina and New Hampshire, the latter three totaling less than 100 cubic yards. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/deq or call 517-241-7741. Gov. Rick Snyder Tuesday signed legislation allowing counties to absorb their county road commissions, bringing greater accountability and efficiency to local government. The new law allows county boards of commissioners to dissolve appointed road commissions or to ask voters for dissolution of elected road commissions. The method of dissolution depends on whether the road commission originally was created by a resolution or a public vote. The county boards then would assume the road agency duties. According to a press release from the governor’s office, Michigan is the only state that has county road commissions. Created more than 100 years ago, when the state’s roads were unpaved and automobiles were in their infancy, the commission system has outlived its usefulness. Michigan has 81 county road commissions and nearly half of them are not accountable to the rest of county government, stated the press release. Currently, only the largest counties are allowed to incorporate their county road commissions into their general government. Macomb and Wayne counties already have done so. Detailed information on the bills is available at www.legislature.mi.gov. Pure Michigan’s flavor: caramel apple Southwest Michigan to see $84.7 million in road, bridge work FIRST IN BARRY - The first driver-training car used in Barry County’s schools was recently delivered to the Delton school. In the photo above, instructor Donald Moody is preparing to give actual experience behind the wheel to one of the members of his class of 15 girls and two boys. Students pictured above include Margaret Finkey, Garland McLeod, Dawn Fisher, Jackie Nelson and Moody. The following story was published in the Dec. 16, 1948, Hastings Banner. Students at the Delton High School are now attending the first driver-training classes to be conducted in Barry County schools with the use of a dual-control car. The course, being taught by Donald Moody, started late, but with the aid of the “Indian summer” weather, progress was made almost according to schedule, according to AAA representatives who help sponsor the course. The car being used was obtained through Smith and Doster, Ford dealers in Delton, and is on loan to the school. The school provides full maintenance of the car, which will be driven from 8,000 to 10,000 miles before being turned into the dealer for a new model. The dual controls and instructional material and the training manual are supplied by the Automobile Club of Michigan and the AAA. While Delton is the first to install the Call 945-9554 any time for Hastings Banner classified ads course in Barry County schools, the Kellogg Agricultural School at Hickory Corners – attended by many Barry County youngsters – has had a similar program for a year and it was so successful there that a second instructor was added this year. Seventeen students are enrolled in the Delton class, including two boys. Instructor Moody reported that, at first, many boys considered it a “sissy” course until the two fellows enrolled brought back a few facts concerning starting and stopping smoothly. For the next semester, Moody has received requests from almost 25 boys for the training course. The Delton instructor has been using a good stretch of gravel road, about one mile in length, as the training area, plus the school grounds after school hours. Moody uses two periods during school hours for driver training, and alternates the students in the car and classroom. Each has the same amount of driving and bookwork per week. After school hours, Moody spends one to 1 1/2 hours with four students living close to the school who cannot find time during regular school periods for practical training. Each student receives an average of 20 minutes per day behind the wheel and 40 minutes of observation. One full hour a week is spent in the classroom going over the various training materials. Moody reported that this is certainly, one course that is easy to teach since interest in the material is always prevalent and the desire for improvement keen. WOODLAND TOWNSHIP BOARD OF REVIEW Woodland Township Board of Review will meet at the Woodland Township Hall, 156 S. Main St., Woodland, Michigan on March 6, 2012 to receive and review the assessment roll. Public meetings to hear assessment appeals will be held Monday, March 12, 2012 from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon and 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm; also on Tuesday, March 13, 2012 from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm and from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Appointments are not necessary but will be taken and given preference. For appointments call 269-367-4915 (office) or 269-367-4214 (home). Answering machine messages returned ASAP. The tentative ratios and the estimated multipliers for each class of real property for 2012 are as follows: Ratio Multiplier Agricultural 59.42 .8415 Commercial 62.55 .7994 Industrial 58.64 .8527 Residential 56.01 .8927 Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Supervisor 7 days prior to the meeting by writing or calling Dave Bursley, 156 S. Main St., Woodland, Michigan 48897; 269-367-4915 (office) or 269-367-4214 (home). 77565806 The Michigan Department of Transportation will be investing $84.7 million to improve 162 miles of roadway and 33 bridges in the MDOT Southwest Region in 2012. The Southwest Region is composed of nine counties; Calhoun, Cass, St. Joseph and Van Buren counties will have no “highimpact” projects this year. The Southwest Region 2012 program will provide approximately $66.7 million for pavement repair and roughly $18 million to repair bridges. The following high-impact projects are scheduled for 2012 in the Southwest Region. Allegan County — M-89: An $11 million investment to rebuild more than two miles of M-89 from 12th Street to Hicks Avenue in Plainwell, including rebuilding and repairing bridges over the Kalamazoo River mill race and US-131; I-196: A $13 million investment to rebuild more than nine miles of northbound I-196 from 130th Avenue to US-31 near Saugatuck and Holland. Barry County — M-43 and M-37: A $5 million investment to repave and rebuild almost two miles of M-43 and M-37 from Hanover Street to the north city limits in Hastings, including repairing the bridge over the Thornapple River. Berrien County — M-63: A $1 million investment to repair the M-63 bridge over I94 in St. Joseph Township. Branch County — I-69: An $882,000 investment to repair the Jonesville Road bridge over I-69 in Coldwater. Kalamazoo County — M-331: A $1.3 million project replacing the M-331 (Park Street) bridge over Axtel Creek in Kalamazoo. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/drive. Landfill report: State up, imports decrease The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality Wednesday released its annual report on solid waste going to landfills in the state, noting an overall .9 percent decrease in the volume of solid waste sent to Michigan facilities. Waste disposed of by Michigan residents and businesses increased approximately 3 percent, and waste imported from other states and Canada decreased approximately 12.8 percent. Ontario’s commitment to phase out by December 2010 its exports of municipallymanaged solid waste to Michigan is seen in fiscal year 2011’s decreased waste volumes from Canada. DEQ officials expect the Canadian waste volumes will continue to decrease during the next year, but Canada remains the largest source of waste imports into Michigan, accounting for 15.3 percent of all waste disposed of in Michigan landfills. Based on the capacity used during fiscal year 2011, the reduction of waste disposed, and additional permitted landfill capacity, officials estimate Michigan landfills have approximately 24 years of remaining disposal capacity. The data appears in the 16th annual report prepared by the DEQ. Submittal of this information to the DEQ is required of all Michigan landfills. In all, Michigan residents accounted for more than 35.8 million cubic yards of waste volume in fiscal year 2011, followed by Canada at 6.98 million and Ohio, 1.3 million. Other waste generation origins, in descending In the Pure Michigan contest to create an official flavor of the Michigan state parks, Dawn Dummer of Houghton Lake was chosen Tuesday, Feb. 21, for submitting the winning nomination: Pure Michigan Caramel Apple. The DNR joined with Hudsonville Ice Cream and Pure Michigan to launch the Create a Flavor contest in January, and interest was immediate. Officials said more than 3,000 flavor suggestions were submitted, ranging from Tahquamenon Falls Root Beer Sundae to Hex Hatch Jubilee, each evoking the sights, sounds and nostalgia of getting away from it all in Michigan’s great outdoors. The entries were narrowed down to a field of four finalists: Michigan Chocolate Covered Cherries, submitted by Heather Klaver of Grand Rapids; Pure Michigan Jubilee, submitted by Gary Kesler of Grandville; Shiver MI Timbers, submitted by Carla Reczek of Oak Park; and Dummer’s Pure Michigan Caramel Apple. Representatives from the DNR, Hudsonville Ice Cream, Pure Michigan, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and Meijer gathered with friends and family of the judges for the event, which took place at the Livonia Meijer store. For submitting the winning flavor combination, Dummer has earned bragging rights, along with free Hudsonville ice cream for a year, a one-week stay at a Michigan state park or harbor of her choice, a $1,000 Meijer gift card and Pure Michigan merchandise. Sweet. HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, Feb. 23 — So Many Books Book Club discusses Breaker’s Reef by Terri Blackstock, 1 to 2 p.m.; Movie Memories celebrates the Oscars with “Mrs. Miniver,” 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 24 — preschool story time learns about mice, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; teen video game tournament, Round 2, 4 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 25 — VITA tax counseling by appointment, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, Feb. 27 — winter reading club for adults continues. Tuesday, Feb. 28 — toddler story time reads about going shopping, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.; open chess club, 6 to 8 p.m.; genealogy club, 6 to 8 p.m. Call the Hastings Public Library for more information, 269-945-4263. BALTIMORE TOWNSHIP BUDGET PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Baltimore Township Board will hold a public hearing on the proposed township budget for the fiscal year 2012-2013 at the Baltimore Township hall located at 3100 E. Dowling Rd., Hastings, MI on Tuesday, March 13, 2012 at 6:30 p.m. THE PROPERTY TAX MILLAGE RATE PROPOSED TO BE LEVIED TO SUPPORT THE PROPOSED BUDGET WILL BE A SUBJECT OF THE HEARING. A copy of the budget is available for public inspection by calling the Township Supervisor, Ron Miller, @ 269-945-5678. This notice is posted in compliance with Public Act 267 of the 1976 amended MCL 41.72a (2) (3) and the Americans with Disabilities Act. The Baltimore Township board will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audiotapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting upon Ten (10) days notice to the Baltimore Township Board. NOTE: Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or service should contact the Baltimore Township Clerk by writing or calling Penelope Ypma, 6200 Henry Rd., Hastings, MI 49058. Telephone 269-945-3228. Penelope Ypma Baltimore Township Clerk 77565970 TOWNSHIP OF PRAIRIEVILLE 2012 NOTICE OF BOARD OF REVIEW PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Review will meet at the Township Hall, 10115 S. Norris Rd. Delton, Michigan 49046, to examine and review the 2012 assessment roll. The board will convene on the following dates for the hearing of appeals of assessments or taxable values, poverty exemptions, parcel classification appeals and/or current year qualified agricultural denials: Tuesday, March 6, 2012, 1:00 pm Organizational Meeting Monday, March 12, 2012, 1:00 to 4:00 pm and 6:00 to 9:00 pm Tuesday, March 13, 2012, 9:00 am to Noon and 1:00 to 4:00 pm And on such additional days as required to hear all persons who have given notice of the desire to be heard until assessment rolls have been revised, corrected and approved. APPOINTMENTS ARE SUGGESTED; letter appeals will be accepted and must be received no later than 5:00 pm March 12, 2012 Tentative ratios and estimated multipliers for 2012 are as follows: Agricultural 40.61% 1.2312 Commercial 52.72% 0.9484 Industrial 40.55% 1.2330 Residential 49.65% 1.0070 Personal Property 50.00% 1.0000 Tentative equalization factor of 1.0000 for all classes is expected after completion of Board of Review. Jim Stoneburner, Supervisor Prairieville Township Kevin Harris, Assessor Prairieville Township Prairieville Township Board Meetings are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, sex or disability. American with Disabilities (ADA) Notice The township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/hearing upon seven-(7) days notice to Prairieville Township. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact Prairieville Township by writing or calling. Jill Owens Prairieville Township Clerk 10115 S. Norris Rd. Delton, MI 49046 269-623-2726 77565832 �Page 10 — Thursday, February 23, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Richard Stafford and Kathy Stafford, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Kellogg Community Federal Credit Union, Mortgagee, dated January 15, 2010, and recorded on January 26, 2010 in instrument 201001260000759, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Four Thousand Two Hundred Nine and 77/100 Dollars ($124,209.77), including interest at 5.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 8, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 45, Fair Lake Park, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats, Page 77, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #393307F01 77565689 (02-09)(03-01) SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by AMON D. SMITH and KAYSIE SMITH, HUSBAND AND WIFE, to FIRST PLACE BANK, Mortgagee, dated December 21, 2006, and recorded on December 27, 2006, in Document No. 1174400, and assigned by said mortgagee to GMAC Mortgage, LLC successor by merger to GMAC Mortgage Corporation, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Forty-One Thousand Twenty-Seven Dollars and Fifty-Eight Cents ($141,027.58), including interest at 6.500% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on March 15, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: COMMENCING AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF SECTION 7, TOWN 1 NORTH, RANGE 7 WEST, ASSYRIA TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN; THENCE SOUTH 00 DEGREES 36 MINUTES 31 SECONDS EAST ALONG THE EAST LINE OF SAID SECTION 2386.71 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE CONTINUING SOUTH 00 DEGREES 36 MINUTES 31 SECONDS EAST ALONG SAID EAST LINE 220.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES 53 MINUTES 50 SECONDS WEST 777.71 FEET TO THE CENTERLINE OF CASE ROAD; THENCE 221.29 FEET ALONG SAID CENTERLINE AND THE ARC OF A CURVE TO THE RIGHT WHOSE RADIUS MEASURES 2000.00 FEET AND WHOSE CHORD BEARS NORTH 01 DEGREES 15 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST 220.05 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 89 DEGREES 53 MINUTES 50 SECONDS EAST 780.37 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. GMAC Mortgage, LLC successor by merger to GMAC Mortgage Corporation Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 GMAC.004320 (0277565960 16)(03-08) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Casey S Wolfe, A Single Man and Shelley L Hendrick, A Single Woman to First Security Savings Bank FSB, Mortgagee, dated December 14, 1995 and recorded December 18, 1995 in Liber 647 Page 619 Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage was assigned through mesne assignments to: CitiMortgage, Inc., by assignment dated December 2, 2008 and recorded December 8, 2008 in Instrument # 200812080011636 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Forty-Four Thousand Eight Hundred Twenty-Seven Dollars and Eight Cents ($44,827.08) including interest 8.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on March 15, 2012 Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: North one half of Lots 4, 5, 6, Block 8 Eastern Addition; also South 10 feet Lot 3 and South 10 feet of West one half of Lot 2 Block 8 Eastern Addition City of Hastings. Commonly known as 413 S East Street, Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 2/16/2012 CitiMortgage, Inc., Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-55888 (0277565950 16)(03-08) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by James Orns, an unmarried man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated October 29, 2008, and recorded on November 5, 2008 in instrument 200811050010765, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Flagstar Bank, FSB as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-One Thousand Five Hundred Ten and 49/100 Dollars ($121,510.49), including interest at 6.99% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 8, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Beginning at the South 1/4 post of Section 9, Town 1 North, Range 8 West; thence East parallel with the centerline of East Bristol Road, a distance of 179 feet; thence North at right angles for East Bristol Road 395 feet; thence West parallel with the centerline of East Bristol Road 220 feet; thence South to a point 41 feet West of the South 1/4 post of said Section 9, 395 feet; thence East 41 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #385076F01 77565749 (02-09)(03-01) PROPOSED WATER RATE INCREASE HEARING The Barry Township Board will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, March 6th, 2012 at 6:45 p.m. at the Barry Township Hall, located at 155 E. Orchard, Delton, MI, to consider the following proposed water base rate increases for the water system in Delton, Michigan. 1. That the Water Base Charge be increased for a 5/8” meter from $16.00 per month per Unit to $18.00 per month per Unit, effective April 1, 2012. 2. That the Water Base Charge be increased for a 1” meter from $25.50 per month per Unit to $28.50 per month per Unit, effective April 1, 2012. 3. That the Water Base Charge be increased for a 2” meter from $83.00 per month per Unit to $93.00 per month per Unit, effective April 1, 2012. 4. That the Water Base Charge be increased for a 4” meter from $260.00 per month per Unit to $291.20 per month per Unit, effective April 1, 2012. American with Disabilities (ADA) Notice The Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/hearing upon seven (7) days notice to Barry Township. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact Barry Township by writing or calling 623-5171. 77566057 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12026044-DE Estate of JOHN J. REGIS. Date of birth: 4/18/1944. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, JOHN J. REGIS SSN: XXX-XX-7518, who lived at 14702 Mann Rd., Hickory Corners, Michigan died January 1, 2011. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Jacklyn Regis, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 220 W. Court Street, Suite 302, Hastings, MI 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 02/16/2012 Terri S. Macklin P38785 4433 Byron Center SW Wyoming, MI 49519 (616) 531-7722 Jacklyn Regis 14702 Mann Rd. Hickory Corners, MI 49060 77566025 (269) 671-4555 SYNOPSIS PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP Regular Meeting February 8, 2012 Supervisor J. Stoneburner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Present: Supervisor J. Stoneburner, Clerk J. Owens, Treasurer K. McGuire and Trustee R. Goebel Absent: Trustee Grundy Also present were 15 guests. Pledge of allegiance and a moment of silence for our troops. Agenda was approved with changes. Minutes were presented to the Board and approved. Correspondence: None Vivian Conner as Barry County Commissioner Candidate introduced herself. Nicholas Wake gave a brief overview of Representative Callton’s first year in office. Public Comments were received. Fire Departments report was placed on file. Approved to remove Rick Garrison from medical leave and put him back on active status. Approved the bid from Rodney Vaughn to epoxy the floor at the Fire Department building; use 10% from the elections budget and 90% from the fire department budget. Police Department report was placed on file. Supervisor’s Report was received. Treasurer’s Report was received. Clerk’s Report was received. Approve to pay Township bills for $27,041.04. Approved resolution to establish township officers’ salary. By-Law change for Prairieville Township Fire Department was discussed. Authorized Supervisor Stoneburner and Trustee Goebel to continue with Barry Township and Hickory Corners Fire Department to continue on a month to month basis. Budget Meetings: 3/6/12 @ 2pm – discussion of bids, budget, fire department budget and 3/8/12 @ 2pm – attending will be Attorney Ken Sparks, and discussion will be any misc. Public comments were received. Board comments were received. Meeting adjourned at 8:26 p.m. Submitted by: Jill Owens, Clerk Attested to by: 77566053 Jim Stoneburner, Supervisor Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Brian M. Schaefer, a Married Man and Sara M. Schaefer, His Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Independent Mortgage Co. Central MI, Mortgagee, dated March 15, 2004, and recorded on March 22, 2004 in instrument 1123968, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Independent Bank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety Thousand One Hundred Sixty-Eight and 07/100 Dollars ($90,168.07), including interest at 5.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 8, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 70 of Aben Johnsons Addition Number 2 to the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 4 of Plats, Page 2, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #385630F03 77565760 (02-09)(03-01) MORTGAGE SALE This is an attempt to collect a debt, and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by THOMAS H. CHASE, a single man, and SHIRLEY A. CHASE, a married woman, Mortgagors, to INDEPENDENT MORTGAGE CO. SOUTH MICHIGAN, Mortgagee, dated February 18, 2005 and recorded February 22, 2005 in Instrument #1141705 which was assigned to INDEPENDENT BANK of 4200 East Beltline, Grand Rapids, Michigan, by Assignment dated April 18, 2011 and recorded on April 20, 2011 in Instrument No. 201104200004350. By reason of such default the undersigned elects to declare the entire unpaid amount of said mortgage due and payable forthwith. At the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on said mortgage the sum of FIFTY THOUSAND EIGHT HUNDRED SIXTY SIX AND 48/100 ($50,866.48) dollars including interest at the rate of 4.125% per annum. No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided and to pay said amount with interest as provided in said mortgage, and all legal costs, charges, and expenses, including attorney fees allowed by law, said mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the east door of the Barry County Courthouse, the place of holding the Circuit Court within the County of Barry, City of Hastings, Michigan, on March 15, 2012, at 1:00 p.m., local time. Pursuant to Public Act No. 104, Public Acts of 1971 [MCLA 600.3240(8), MSA 27A.3240(8)] the redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of the foreclosure sale, unless the property is determined to be abandoned under MCLA 600.3241a; MSA 27A.3241(1), in which case the property may be redeemed during the 30 days immediately following the sale or expiration of statutory notice period. The premises covered by said mortgage are situated in the Township of Maple Grove, County of Barry, State of Michigan, described as follows, to wit: Commencing at the West 1/4 post of Section 23, Town 2 North, Range 7 West, Maple Grove Township, Barry County Michigan; thence South 40 rods for a place of beginning; thence North 130 feet; thence East 600 feet; thence South 130 feet; thence West 600 feet to the place of beginning. Together with an easement in common that is appurtenant thereto for purposes of ingress and egress thereto over premises described as: Commencing at the West 1/4 post of Section 23, Town 2 North, Range 7 West; thence South 40 rods; thence North 130 feet for a place of beginning; thence East 600 feet; thence North 33 feet; thence West 600 feet; thence South 33 feet to the place of beginning. The default and foreclosure proceedings include a 1992 Fairmont mobile home, serial #MY9385449A8, permanently affixed thereto, as evidenced by the Certificate of Mobile Home Title and recorded in Instrument #1141704. INDEPENDENT BANK, Assignee SCHENK, BONCHER & RYPMA Curtis D. Rypma P44421 601 Three Mile Road, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49544-1601 77565568 (616) 647-8277 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Curtis H. Conrad and LoQuisha M. Conrad, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Countrywide Home Loans, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 23, 2002, and recorded on August 28, 2002 in instrument 1086428, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fifty-Three Thousand Seven Hundred Fifty-Three and 58/100 Dollars ($153,753.58), including interest at 6.75% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 22, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 14, Town 4 North, Range 10 West; thence East 12 rods; thence South 16 rods; thence West 12 rods; thence North 16 rods to the point of beginning. excepting therefrom the South 5 feet thereof. Also a parcel of land commencing 12 rods East of the Northwest corner of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 14, Town 4 North, Range 10 West for the place of beginning; Thence East 8 rods; thence South 10 rods; thence West 8 rods; thence North 10 rods to the place of the beginning. Also a parcel of land commencing 54 rods West of the Northeast corner of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 14, Town 4 North, Range 10 West; thence South 10 rods; thence West 6 rods; thence North 10 rods; thence East 6 rods to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 23, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #379291F01 77566020 (02-23)(03-15) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Eric Johnson and Mary Johnson, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 28, 2006, and recorded on November 29, 2006 in instrument 1173221, and assigned by said Mortgagee to U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE TRUMAN FHA TRUST 2008-1 as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixteen Thousand Two Hundred Five and 18/100 Dollars ($116,205.18), including interest at 7% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 8, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Castleton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 4 Town 3 North, Range 7 West, Township of Castleton, Barry County, Michigan, thence South 176 feet for point of beginning, thence South 220 feet, thence East 1320 feet to the North-South 1/8 line of the Southeast 1/4; thence North 220 feet, thence West 1320 feet to the point of beginning. Except the East 610 feet The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #191965F04 77565736 (02-09)(03-01) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Rebecca E. Duff, a single woman, to Mainstreet Savings Bank, FSB, Mortgagee, dated January 3, 2003 and recorded January 9, 2003 in Instrument Number 1095136, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Three Thousand Six Hundred SeventyNine and 26/100 Dollars ($73,679.26) including interest at 6.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on MARCH 8, 2012. Said premises are located in the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 960 of the City, formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded Plat thereof in Liber A of Plats, on Page 1. City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: February 9, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 2683 File No. 362.8839 77565796 (02-09)(03-01) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 23, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES Case No. 11-466-CH Notice of Judicial Foreclosure Sale on a Default Judgment and Judgment of Foreclosure Against Defendants Teresa J. Lindsey, f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker and Shana Ciampa NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to the terms of a Default Judgment and Judgment of Foreclosure of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan signed and filed on January 17, 2012, in the case of Eaton Federal Savings Bank, Plaintiff v Teresa J. Lindsey, f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker and Shana Ciampa, Defendants, Case No. 11-466-CH, wherein, among other things, the Court allowed the foreclosure of a mortgage granted by Teresa J. Lindsey f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker (Mortgagor) to Eaton Federal Savings Bank on September 27, 2007 and recorded October 4, 2007 at Instrument No. 200710040002745, pages 1 through 10, Barry County Records, against the Mortgagor. Pursuant to the Default Judgment and Judgment for Foreclosure, the mortgaged premises shall be sold at a public auction by or under the direction of Clerk/Sheriff for the County of Barry to the highest bidder at the main entrance to the Barry County Courthouse, 220 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 on Thursday, March 22, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., local time. The following described “Mortgaged Premises”: Parcel 1: Lot 13 of Standley’s First Addition to Fine Lake Park, Johnstown Township, Barry County, Michigan, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, on Page 31, Also, beginning at the Southeast corner of Lot 13 of Standley’s First Addition to Fine Lake Park, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, on Page 31; thence North 26 degrees East along the Easterly line of Lots 13 and 14 of said Plat, 100.00 feet, thence South 82 degrees 54 minutes East 50.00 feet; thence South 26 degrees West, 100.00 feet; thence North 82 degrees 54 minutes West 50.00 feet to the point of beginning. Parcel 2: Beginning at the Southwest corner of Lot 8 of Fine Lake Park, Johnstown Township, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof; thence Northeasterly along the East Shore of Fine Lake to a point 10 feet from said place of beginning; thence Easterly to a point on the Easterly line of said Lot which is 3 feet North of the Southeast corner of said Lot; thence Southerly along the East line of said Lot to the Southeast corner thereof; thence Westerly along the South line of said Lot to the place of beginning. The Mortgaged Premises, whose address is 823 East Shore Drive, Battle Creek, Michigan, 49017, also include all right, title and interests held by Teresa J. Lindsey f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker as of September 27, 2007, in the Mortgaged Premises. The Premises may be redeemed during the six (6) months following the date of sale. BODMAN PLC By: Sandra L. Jasinski (P37430) Attorneys for Eaton Federal Savings Bank 229 Court Street, P.O. Box 405 Cheboygan, Michigan 49721 (231) 627-8000 Date: February 2, 2012 Dates of publication: February 2, 9, 16, 23, March 1, 8 and 15, 2012. 77565541 THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE Default having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made by RONALD L. VESTER and SHIRLEY M. VESTER, Husband and Wife, 441 E. Shore Drive, Battle Creek, Michigan 49017 to SMB MORTGAGE COMPANY n/k/a SOUTHERN MICHIGAN BANK & TRUST, 2 West Chicago Street, Coldwater, Michigan 49036 dated January 24, 2008 and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry and State of Michigan, on February 4, 2008 in Instrument No. 2008-204-0001017 of Mortgages, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date of this notice, for principal and interest the sum of Eighty-Six Thousand Three Hundred Fifty-Two and 87/100 ($86,352.87) Dollars and no proceedings having been instituted to recover the debt now remaining secured by said Mortgage, or any part thereof, where by the power of sale contained in said Mortgage has become operative; Now Therefore, Notice is Hereby Given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in said Mortgage and in pursuance of the statute in such case made and provided, the said Mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the premises therein described or so much thereof as may be necessary, at public auction, to the highest bidder, at Courthouse Bldg, Barry County Courthouse in the City of Hastings, and County of Barry, Michigan, that being the place of holding Circuit Court in and for said County, on March 15, 2012, at 1:00 p.m. in the afternoon of said day, and said premises will be sold to pay the amount as aforesaid then due on said Mortgage together with 6.6250% percent interest on the Mortgage, legal costs, Attorneys’ fees and also any taxes and insurance that said Mortgagee does pay on or prior to the date of said sale; which said premises are described as follows, to-wit: County of Barry, Township of Johnstown, State of Michigan, is described as follows: Lot 13 of Oak Park, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats on page 22. ALSO, beginning at a point on the East line of Cottage Road directly East of the Northeast corner of Lot 13 in the Plat of Oak Park; running thence Easterly 100 feet; thence Southerly parallel with said East line of said Cottage Road 50 feet; thence Westerly to a point in the East line of said Cottage Road 50 feet south of the Place of Beginning; thence Northerly on the East line of said Cottage Road to the place of beginning. Pursuant to MCL 600.3240, the last day to redeem the Sheriff's Deed will be September 15, 2012, however, if an Affidavit of Abandonment is filed with the Register of Deeds, the last day to redeem will be April 15, 2012, or until the time to provide the notice was required by MCL 600.3241a(c) expires, whichever is later. If said property is in fact sold at the above described foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the above listed Mortgagor will be responsible to the person who buys the property at the foreclosure sale or to Southern Michigan Bank & Trust Company for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 16, 2012 SOUTHERN MICHIGAN BANK & TRUST Mortgagee. DRESSER, DRESSER, HAAS & CAYWOOD, P.C. By: P. Joseph Haas, Jr. Attorney for SOUTHERN MICHIGAN BANK & TRUST Business Address 112 South Monroe Street 77565915 Sturgis, MI 49091 THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR IF YOU ARE IN BANKRUPTCY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Ronald D. Catrell, Ragene Catrell, husband and wife, to Fifth Third Mortgage - MI, LLC, Mortgagee, dated May 20, 2005 and recorded May 24, 2005 in Instrument Number 1147007, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Fifth Third Mortgage Company by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Seventy Thousand Seventy-Eight and 39/100 Dollars ($270,078.39) including interest at 3% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on MARCH 1, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 22 of Pennasee Park, according to the recorded plat thereof, Also Commencing Northwest corner said Lot 21; thence North 17 degrees 38 minutes 07 seconds West 10.00 feet along Northerly EXT of West line of said lot to North line platted alley; thence North 69 degrees 41 minutes 77 seconds East 52.52 to the point of beginning; thence North 01 degrees 06 minutes 28 seconds West 80.28 to centerline Gun Lake Road; thence Southeasterly along said centerline to a point lying 64.75 feet North 71 degrees 39 minutes 48 seconds West from intersection of centerline Gun Lake Road and platted alley of Pennassee Park; thence South 13 degrees 54 minutes 32 seconds West 39.91 to North line said platted alley; thence Northwesterly along North line said platted alley to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: February 2, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 200.8678 77565563 (02-02)(02-23) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Allen R Childers and Felisha J Childers, his wife to Gehrke Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated July 23, 1998 and recorded August 13, 1998 in Instrument # 1016462 , and rerecorded on October 15, 1998 in Instrument # 1019485 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned through mesne assignments to: CitiMortgage, Inc, by assignment dated November 13, 2009 and recorded November 20, 2009 in Instrument # 200911200011349 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Eight Thousand Eight Hundred Ninety-Five Dollars and Ten Cents ($78,895.10) including interest 4% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on March 15, 2012 Said premises are situated in City of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Part of the Northwest one quarter, section 36, Town 3 North Range 7 West, village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, described as: beginning at a point on the North section line South 89 degrees 30 minutes 01 second West 758.00 Feet from the North one quarter corner of section 36, thence South 00 degrees 45 minutes 01 second West 199.11 Feet; thence North 89 degrees 10 minutes 54 seconds West 252.39 Feet to the centerline of Kellogg road; thence along the centerline of Kellogg road North 34 degrees 21 minutes 55 seconds East 235.53 Feet to the North line of section 36; thence along said section line North 89 degrees 30 minutes 01 second East 122.02 Feet to the point of beginning Commonly known as 424 Kellogg, Nashville MI 49073 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 2/16/2012 CitiMortgage, Inc, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-55765 (02-16)(03-08) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Richard L. Singer, a single man and Nicole J. Edwards, a single woman, as joint tenants in common, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated January 4, 2006 and recorded January 9, 2006 in Instrument Number 1158704, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Morgan Stanley ABS Capital I Inc. Trust 2006-HE3 by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Six Thousand One Hundred Ninety-One and 97/100 Dollars ($106,191.97) including interest at 7.39% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on MARCH 8, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Baltimore, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Township of Baltimore, County of Barry and State of Michigan: Beginning at the South 1/4 corner of Section 35, Town 2 North, Range 8 West; thence West 335 feet along the South line of said Section 35; thence North 163 feet parallel with the North and South 1/4 line of said Section 35; thence East, 252 feet, thence North 90 feet; thence East, 83 feet to said North and South 1/4 line; thence South 253 feet along said 1/4 line to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: February 9, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 306.4472 77565744 (02-09)(03-01) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by David Killgore and Karen Killgore, husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated June 1, 2007 and recorded June 4, 2007 in Instrument Number 1181301, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Federal National Mortgage Association ("FNMA") by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Three Thousand Ninety-Two and 83/100 Dollars ($93,092.83) including interest at 7% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on MARCH 15, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Rutland Charter, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the Township of Rutland, County of Barry, State of Michigan, is described as follows: A parcel of land located in the Northeast 1/4 of Section 11, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, described as follows: Beginning at a point on the center line of old M-37 which lies South 00 degrees 06 minutes 20 seconds East 433.26 feet and South 50 degrees 33 minutes 20 seconds East 1056.01 feet from the North 1/4 post of said Section 11; Thence South 39 degrees 26 minutes 40 seconds West 189.0 feet; Thence North 50 degrees 33 minutes 20 seconds West 217.69 feet; Thence North 32 degrees 19 minutes 08 seconds East 190.47 feet to the center of said highway; Thence South 50 degrees 33 minutes 20 seconds East 241.32 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: February 16, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 650.2340 77565840 (02-16)(03-08) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Robert L. Wood, a married man Sylvia J. Wood, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Independent Mortgage Company, Mortgagee, dated November 10, 2010, and recorded on November 22, 2010 in instrument 201011220010916, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Independent Bank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-Seven Thousand Eighty-Eight and 78/100 Dollars ($167,088.78), including interest at 4.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 8, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Assyria, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The East 1/2 of the West 1/2 of the West 1/2 of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 3, Town 1 North, Range 7 West, Assyria Township, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #395895F01 77565730 (02-09)(03-01) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Marcie L. Tepper, A Single Woman, original mortgagor(s), to Argent Mortgage Company, LLC, Mortgagee, dated February 24, 2006, and recorded on March 2, 2006 in instrument 1160761, and assigned by mesne assignments to Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Argent Securities Inc., Asset-Backed Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2006-W4 as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Seven Thousand Three Hundred Fifty-Five and 56/100 Dollars ($107,355.56), including interest at 10.95% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 22, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel 1: Part of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 21, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, Thornapple Township, Barry County, Michigan described as: Commencing at the Northeast corner of said section, thence North 89 Degrees 47 Minutes 15 Seconds West 869.48 Feet along the North line of said section to the point of beginning, thence South 00 Degrees 16 Minutes 10 seconds West 920.00 Feet parallel with the West line of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of said section, thence North 89 Degrees 47 Minutes 15 Seconds West 234.74 Feet, thence North 00 Degrees 16 Minutes 10 Seconds East 920.00 Feet, thence South 89 Degrees 47 Minutes 15 Seconds East 234.74 Feet along the North line of said section to the point of beginning. Subject to Highway Right-of-Way for Finkbeiner Road over the North 33.0 Feet thereof. Parcel 2: Part of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of section 21, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, Thornapple Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Commencing at the Northeast coner of said section, thence North 89 Degrees 47 Minutes 15 Seconds West 1104.22 Feet along the North line of said Section to the point of beginning, thence South 00 Degrees 16 Minutes 20 Seconds West 920.00 Feet parallel with the West line of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of said section, thence North 89 Degrees 47 Minutes 15 Seconds West 234.74 Feet, thence North 00 Degrees 16 Minutes 10 Seconds East 920.00 Feet along the West line of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of said section, thence South 89 Degrees 47 Minutes 15 Seconds East 234.74 Feet along the North line of said section to the point of beginning. Subject to Highway Right-ofWay for Finkbeiner Road over the North 33.0 Feet thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 23, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #259898F03 77565931 (02-23)(03-15) FORECLOSURE NOTICE (ALL COUNTIES) AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTIFY (248) 362-6100 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by Lucy Tobias, unmarried woman of Barry County, Michigan, Mortgagor to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Mortgage Investors Corporation it’s successors and assigns dated the 19th day of April, 2011, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, for the County of Barry and State of Michigan, on the 27th day of April, 2011, in Instrument No. 201104270004556 of Barry Records, which said mortgage was assigned to GMAC Mortgage, LLC , thru mesne assignments, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, for principal of $87,905.85 (eighty-seven thousand nine hundred five and 85/100) plus accrued interest at 3.00% (three point zero zero) percent per annum. And no suit proceedings at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to the statue of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on, the 1st day of March, 2012, at 1:00:00 PM said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI, Barry County, Michigan, of the premises described in said mortgage. Which said premises are described as follows: All that certain piece or parcel of land situate in the Township of Rutland, in the County of Barry and State of Michigan and described as follows to wit: Situated in the Township of Rutland, County of Barry and State of Michigan: Lot 19 and 20 of Pine Haven Estates, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats on Page 95. Commonly known as: 1589 Pinedale Dr Tax Parcel No.: 13-195-001-20 The redemption period shall be six months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: February 2, 2012 By: Foreclosing Attorneys Attorney for Plaintiff Weltman, Weinberg & Reis Co., L.P.A. 2155 Butterfield Drive Suite 200-S Troy, MI 48084 WWR# 10086435 (02-02)(02-23) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Richard Frank and Abigail B. Frank, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Lend America, Mortgagee, dated July 31, 2009, and recorded on August 26, 2009 in instrument 200908260008726, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Loan Care, a division of FNF Servicing, Inc. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Two Thousand One Hundred Fifty-Three and 36/100 Dollars ($102,153.36), including interest at 5.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 22, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 7, Town 2 North, Range 10 West, described as: Commencing at the East 1/4 corner of said Section 7; thence North 89 degrees 18 minutes 00 seconds West 1320.51 feet, along the South line of the Northeast 1/4; thence North 00 degrees 15 minutes 08 seconds West 695.99 feet, along the East line of the West 1/2 of the Northeast 1/4, to the point of beginning; thence North 00 degrees 15 minutes 08 seconds West 370.00 feet; thence North 89 degrees 28 minutes 40 seconds West 269.45 feet; thence Southeasterly 81.56 feet, along a 151.83 foot radius curve to the right, the chord of which bears South 15 degrees 34 minutes 38 seconds East 80.56 feet; thence South 00 degrees 19 minutes 57 seconds East 292.53 feet; thence South 89 degrees 28 minutes 40 seconds East 247.75 feet, to the point of beginning. Subject to an together with an easement for ingress, egress and utilities as described below Description of a 66 foot wide Easement for Ingress, Egress and Utilities: that part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 7, Town 2 North, Range 10 West, described as: Commencing at the East 1/4 corner of said Section 7; thence North 89 degrees 18 minutes 00 seconds West 1320.51 feet, along the South line of the Northeast 1/4; thence North 00 degrees 15 minutes 08 seconds West 1318.97 feet, along the East line of the West 1/2 of the Northeast 1/4; thence North 89 degrees 28 minutes 40 seconds West 464.30 feet, along the North line of the Southwest 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of said Section to the point of beginning, and the centerline of said 56 foot wide strip of land; thence South 00 degrees 19 minutes 58 seconds East 24.45 feet; thence Southeasterly 141.58 feet, along a 150.0 foot radius curve to the left, the chord of which bears South 27 degrees 45 minutes 38 seconds East 135.38 feet; thence South 54 degrees 24 minutes 49 seconds East 111.13 feet; thence Southerly 143.31 feet, along a 151.83 foot radius curve to the right, the chord of which bears South 27 degrees 23 minutes 53 seconds East 138.05 feet; thence South 00 degrees 19 minutes 57 seconds East 404.65 feet, to reference point A and the point of ending of said 66 foot wide strip of land, also subject to and together with an easement for ingress, egress and utilities over a 60.0 foot radius turnaround, the radius point of which is the aforesaid reference point A The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 23, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #357226F02 77566030 (02-23)(03-15) �Page 12 — Thursday, February 23, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES 77565928 SYNOPSIS Barry Township Board Regular Meeting February 7, 2012 Regular meeting opened @ 7:00 p.m. ROLL CALL: 5 board members and 11 guests. Motion approved minutes and Treasurers reports for February 2012. Motion approved agenda as presented. Motion approved to change Rule #10 Charge for disinterment. Motion approved to adopt resolution 12-1. Motion approved to contact Attorney Ken Sparks about preparing an agreement for Fair Lake and direction as to whether we need to state in the agreement where the funds will be taken for the Fair Lake bond. Motion approved the purchase of (2) HP All in One printers for use at the election precincts. Motion approved bills and check register for February 2012. Adjourned @ 9:00 p.m. Respectfully, Attested to by: Debra J. Knight Wesley Kahler Barry Township Clerk Barry Township Supervisor Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Randy Kill, a single man and Jennifer Wooliever, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 19, 2003, and recorded on August 21, 2003 in instrument 1111566, and assigned by said Mortgagee to EverBank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Seven Thousand Nine Hundred Seventeen and 69/100 Dollars ($97,917.69), including interest at 5.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 15, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Baltimore, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Southwest corner of Section 4, Town 2 North, Range 8 West, Baltimore Township, Barry County, Michigan; running thence North 744 feet along the West line of Section 4; thence East 455.2 feet for the true place of beginning; thence North 176 feet parallel with said West line of Section 4,; thence East 344.4 feet, more or less, to the center of South Bedford Road (M-37); thence South 09 degrees 19 minutes East 178.35 feet along the center of Highway; thence West 372 feet, more or less, to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 16, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #394097F01 77565865 (02-16)(03-08) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Nathan McNabb, A Single Man, original mortgagor(s), to Cornerstone Home Loans, Mortgagee, dated December 6, 2007, and recorded on January 7, 2008 in instrument 20080107-0000195, and assigned by said Mortgagee to ABN AMRO Mortgage Group, Inc. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Six Thousand Five Hundred Sixty-Four and 94/100 Dollars ($76,564.94), including interest at 7% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 1, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The South 1/2 of Lots 1043 and 1044, except the West 3 feet of said Lot 1044 of the City, formerly Village of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded Plat therof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 2, 2012 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #385144F02 77565573 (02-02)(02-23) SYNOPSIS PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP Workshop Meeting February 13, 2012 Supervisor J. Stoneburner called the meeting to order at 10:31 p.m. Members present: Supervisor Stoneburner, Clerk Owens, Treasurer McGuire, Supervisor Stoneburner, and Trustee Goebel Members absent: Trustee Grundy. Public present: None Pledge of allegiance and a moment of silence for our troops. Agenda was approved. Minutes was approved. Public Comments: None. Approved paying JB Printing $945.00 for mailing assessing notices. Approved reappoint Jim Fish to Board of Review until January 1, 2014. Approved reappoint Ken Craft to Board of Review until January 1, 2014. Board comments were received. Public comments: None Meeting adjourned at 10:45 a.m. Submitted by: Jill Owens, Clerk Attested to by: 77566055 Jim Stoneburner, Supervisor NOTICE TO THE RESIDENTS OF BARRY COUNTY Notice is hereby given that the Barry County Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing for the following: Case Number V-1-2012 Ricky Joe Hall Location: 11877 Lewis Rd., in Section 29 of Orangeville Twp. Purpose: Requesting three variances: 1) Requesting a variance to place a single wide mobile home (HUD approved) 14x70 ft (the required minimum core area of living space is (24x24 ft) per Section 1150 (6.); 2) Requesting a variance for an extension of a nonconforming use per Section 403(B.); and 3) Requesting a variance for more than one dwelling on a parcel per Section 522 in the RR zoning district. MEETING DATE: March 12, 2012. TIME: 7:00 PM PLACE: Community Room, Courts & Law Building at 206 West Court St, Hastings MI Site inspections of the above described property will be completed by the Zoning Board of Appeals members before the hearing. Interested persons desiring to present their views upon an appeal either verbally or in writing will be given the opportunity to be heard at the above mentioned time and place. Any written response may be mailed to the address listed below or faxed to (269) 948-4820. The variance application is available for public inspection at the Barry County Planning Office, 220 West State Street, Hastings Michigan 49058 during the hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed between 12-1 p.m.); Monday thru Friday. Please call the Planning Office at (269) 945-1290 for further information. The County of Barry will provide necessary auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/hearing upon ten (10) days notice to the County of Barry. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the County of Barry by writing or calling the following: Michael Brown, County Administrator, 220 West State Street, Hastings MI 49058, (269) 945-1284. 77566041 Pamela A. Jarvis, Barry County Clerk Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Shanon Adams, A/K/A Shanon M. Adams, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated June 18, 2003, and recorded on July 23, 2003 in instrument 1109187, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Three Thousand Fifty-One and 66/100 Dollars ($63,051.66), including interest at 5.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 15, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Being Lot Number 6, Block 49, in Village of Middleville, as shown in the recorded plat/map thereof in Liber 1 of plats on Page 27 of Barry County records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 16, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #392400F01 77565826 (02-16)(03-08) STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-26039-DE Estate of Sandra Rose Reed, Deceased. Date of birth: 11/08/1949. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Sandra Rose Reed, died 12/26/2011. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Christopher L. Reed, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West Court Street, Suite 302, Hastings, MI 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 02/15/2012 Thomas R. Blaising P24868 2861 Capital Avenue SW, Suite B Battle Creek, MI 49015 (269) 962-9058 Christopher L. Reed 2630 Ranchwood Court Melbourne, FL 32901 77566013 (321) 917-6290 SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by JAMES W. SUTHERLAND, A SINGLE MAN, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns,, Mortgagee, dated April 12, 2005, and recorded on April 19, 2005, in Document No. 1145092, and assigned by said mortgagee to GMAC MORTGAGE, LLC SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO GMAC MORTGAGE CORPORATION, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ninety-Four Thousand Five Hundred Forty-Five Dollars and Forty-Six Cents ($194,545.46), including interest at 6.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on March 22, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: THE SOUTH 1320 FEET OF THE WEST 1 /2 OF THE EAST 1 /2 OF THE SOUTHWEST 1 /4 OF SECTION 14, TOWN 4 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST, EXCEPT THE WEST 230 FEET THEREOF. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. GMAC MORTGAGE, LLC SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO GMAC MORTGAGE CORPORATION Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 GMAC.008493 (0277566066 23)(03-15) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: William Ellis and Judy Ellis, Husband and Wife to Ameriquest Mortgage Company, Mortgagee, dated August 28, 2003 and recorded September 9, 2003 in Instrument # 1112845 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Ameriquest Mortgage Securities Inc., Asset-backed Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2003-10, by assignment dated January 20, 2012 and subsequently recorded in Barry County Records on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Nine Thousand One Hundred Eighty-Six Dollars and Forty-Two Cents ($139,186.42) including interest 8.6% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00pm on March 1, 2012 Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land in the Northwest fractional one quarter of section 33, Town 4 North, Range 8 West described as: Commencing at the North one quarter post of said Section 33, thence South 2647.5 feet; thence South 89 degrees 57 minutes West 1273.18 feet to the place of beginning; thence North 54 degrees 5 minutes West 220 feet; thence North 35 degrees 22 minutes 15 seconds West 134 feet; thence South 15 degrees 5 minutes West 247.7 feet; thence North 89 degrees 57 minutes East 320 feet to the place of beginning. Commonly known as 522 Gaskill Rd, Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 2/2/2012 Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Ameriquest Mortgage Securities Inc., Asset-backed Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2003-10, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 11-53820 (0202)(02-23) 77565671 Case No. 10-274-CH CIRCUIT COURT SALE In pursuance and by virtue of a Judgment of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on September 16, 2011, U.S. Bank National Association ND in a certain cause therein pending, wherein U.S. Bank National Association ND was the Plaintiff and Robert J. Stauffer and Shannon J. Stauffer, husband and wife were the Defendants. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that I shall sell at public auction to the highest bidder, at public venue, at the at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI, that being the place of holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, on the 5th day of April, A.D., 2012, at 1:00:00 PM o’clock in the forenoon, Eastern Standard Time, the following described property, towit: All certain piece or parcel of land situated in the Village of Middleville, County of Barry and State of Michigan, described as follows: Situated in the Village of Middleville, County of Barry and State of Michigan: Lots 6, 7 and 8 of Block 59 of the Village of Middleville, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats on Page 27, City of Middleville, County of Barry, Michigan as recorded in Liber 1, Page 27 of Plats, Barry County Records and that parcel of land commencing at the Northwest corner of Lot 8, Block 59 in the plat of Village of Middleville, thence South 65.98 feet along the West line of said Lot 8; thence West 5.0 feet along the North line of Lot 11, Block 59; thence North 65.98 feet parallel to the West line of Lot 8; thence East 5 feet to the point of beginning. Commonly known as: 302 Cherry Street This property may be redeemed during the six months following the sale. Dated: February 16, 2012 Mark Sheldon Deputy Sheriff WELTMAN, WEINBERG & REIS CO., L.P.A. Stuart A. Best (P-40744) Attorney for Plaintiff 2155 Butterfield Drive Suite 200-S Troy, MI 48084/WWR#10032301 (02-16)(03-29) 77565846 NOTICE OF JUDICIAL FORECLOSURE SALE Andrew J. Thomas TROTT & TROTT, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy., Ste. 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE IF YOU ARE A BORROWER ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTENTION PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the circuit court at the request of the plaintiff. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest, as determined by the court. Barry County Circuit Court Case No. 10-618-CH NOTICE OF JUDICIAL SALE JUDICIAL SALE IN PURSUANCE and by virtue of a Judgment of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on the12th day of January, 2012, in a certain cause therein pending, wherein HSBC Mortgage Services, Inc., was the Plaintiff and Jeff Schantz was the defendant. The aforementioned judgment established a debt owing to plaintiff in the amount of $127,979.10, plus post-judgment interest at an annual rate of 8.125 % and other amounts recoverable pursuant to said judgment. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that in order to satisfy said judgment, in whole or in part, the property described below shall be sold at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, located at 220 W. State St., Hastings, Michigan (that being the building in which the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held) on Thursday the 29th of March, 2012 at 1 pm, local time. On said day at said time, the following described property located in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, shall be sold: The West 1/2 of Lots 1302 and 1303 of the City, Formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof. Tax Parcel ID: 08-55-201447-00 More commonly known as: 227 W South Street REDEMPTION PERIOD IS SIX MONTHS. Dated: February 9, 2012 Mark Sheldon Deputy Sheriff For more information please call 248-6422515. Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys for Plaintiff 31440 Northwestern Hwy., Ste. 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 File No. 329389L02 (02-09)(03-22) SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by RYAN J. VANZANDT, A SINGLE MAN and AMY DEVON CLARK, A SINGLE WOMAN, to JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., Mortgagee, dated August 22, 2008, and recorded on August 27, 2008, in Document No. 20080827-0008608, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety Thousand Three Hundred Eighteen Dollars and Twenty-Five Cents ($90,318.25), including interest at 6.750% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on March 15, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: Commencing at the intersection of Thornapple Lake Highway and the East line of Section 25, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, for place of beginning, thence Southwesterly along the center of said highway 76 feet, thence Southeasterly at right angles to said highway 177 feet, thence Northeasterly at right angle 119 feet, thence Northwesterly 177 feet, more or less, to a point in the traveled center line of Thornapple Lake Highway 33 feet Northeasterly from the intersection of said section line with the West Section line of Section 30 of Castleton Township and being the East line of Section 25 of Hastings Township, thence Southwesterly along said traveled center line of Thornapple Lake Highway 33 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A. Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 JPMC.000094 (0277565955 16)(03-08) SHORT FORECLOSURE NOTICE (BARRY COUNTY) MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the terms and conditions of a certain Mortgage made by Frances L. Gross (deceased), dated April 14, 2010, and recorded on June 9, 2010, in Instrument Number 201006090005525, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said Mortgage is held by Generation Mortgage Company. The sum claimed to be due and owing on said Mortgage as of the date of this Notice is $67,887.13, interest accruing at 5.56% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage shall be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the Barry County Courthouse, 220 West State Street, Hastings, MI 49058, at 1:00pm on Thursday, March 15, 2012. The Mortgagee will apply the sales proceeds to the debt secured by the Mortgage as stated above, plus interest on the amount due at a rate of interest equal to 5.56% per annum; all legal costs and expenses, including attorneys fees allowed by law; and also any amount paid by the Mortgagee to protect its interest in the property. The properties to be sold at foreclosure are all that real estate situated in the Township of Irving, County of Barry, State of Michigan, described as follows: Tax Parcel ID No.: 08-08-023-006-30 Commonly known as: 4708 Buehler Rd., Hastings, MI 49058-9535 The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of sale pursuant to M.C.L. § 600.3240(7). February 13, 2012 GENERATION MORTGAGE COMPANY Kilpatrick & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Generation Mortgage Company 903 N. Opdyke Rd., Suite C Auburn Hills, MI 48326 (248) 377-0700 77565908 (02-16)(03-08) NOTICE TO BORROWER PURSUANT TO MCL 600.3205a(4) THIS FIRM MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. NOTICE is hereby provided to the Borrower(s) regarding the property located at 239 ORCHARD ST, DELTON, MI 49046. State law requires that you receive the following notice: You have the right to request a meeting with the mortgage holder or mortgage servicer. Pursuant to MCL 600.3205a(1)(c), BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP has designated the Loan Modification Department of Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 at (248) 883-0157 as its agent to serve as the contact under MCL sections 600.3205a-3205c and has the authority to make agreements for a loan modification pursuant to MCL sections 600.3205b and 600.3205c. You may contact a housing counselor by visiting the Michigan State Housing Development Authority's website at http://www.michigan.gov/mshda or by calling 1-800A-SHELTER, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, year-round. If you request a meeting with the designated agent, foreclosure proceedings will not start until 90 days after the notice required by MCL 600.3205a was mailed to your last known address, subject to the provisions of MCL 600.3205b. If an agreement to modify the mortgage is reached and you abide by the terms of the agreement, the mortgage will not be foreclosed. You have the right to contact an attorney. If you do not have an attorney, the telephone number for the Michigan State Bar Lawyer Referral Service is (800) 968-0738. Notice given by: Randall S. Miller Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 248-883-0157 (Loan Modification Dept.) loanmods@rsmalaw.com Case No. 12MI00471-1 Dated: February 23, 2012 (02-23) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by John L. Buffinga, an unmarried man, original mortgagor(s), to Comerica Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated August 18, 1992, and recorded on August 24, 1992 in Liber 552 on Page 607, and assigned by mesne assignments to Wells Fargo Bank, NA as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Twenty-Four Thousand Six Hundred FiftyThree and 47/100 Dollars ($24,653.47), including interest at 8.75% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 8, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at a point 1364.82 feet South of North 1/4 Post, Section 28, Town 1 North, Range 8 West, thence South 224.46 feet, thence West 400 feet, thence North 224.46 feet, thence East 400 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #392761F01 77565724 (02-09)(03-01) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 23, 2012 — Page 13 Barry County Tea Party supports Glenn by Fran Faverman Staff Writer Barry County Tea Party chairman Gary Munson announced in an email to J-Ad Graphics that Gary Glenn had received overwhelmingly the party’s nod in a straw poll vote for the Republican nomination for the U.S. Senate seat on the ballot in November. He said only conservative candidates were considered: Glenn, Clark Durant, and Peter Konetchy. Glenn received 81.5 percent of the vote, Durant received 11.1 percent, and Konetchy received 7.4 percent. According to Munson the Barry County LEGAL NOTICES SYNOPSIS Hope Township Regular Board Meeting Feb. 13, 2012 All Board members present 7 guests Approved: Agenda Previous Minutes Standing Reports Bills Road Commission Projects Cemetery; 2 lots refunded 2012 Audit Salary resolutions Trash Days Adjourned at 8:27 p.m. Deborah Jackson, Clerk Attested to by Patricia Albert, Supervisor 77566035 Synopsis Hastings Charter Township Regular Meeting February 14, 2012 Meeting called to order at 7:00 pm Pledge and roll call All board members present, 6 guests Public comment- B Geiger intro. Presentation Judge McDowell Approved January minutes & Various dept. reports Commissioner’s report rec’d Treasurer’s report approved Clerk’s election workers Recycling survey BIRCH contract Replacing door hardware Approved payment of warrants Board member comments Approved motion to adjourn 8:43 pm Read full minutes on twp. website Respectfully submitted, Anita S Mennell – Clerk Attested to by Jim Brown – Supervisor 77566064 Call 945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads Tea Party delegates to the Michigan 4 Conservative Senate convention in Mount Pleasant Saturday, Feb. 25, will reflect the results of the poll. The statewide group will decide which candidate to endorse for the nomination to run against Sen. Debbie Stabenow, D-Michigan, in the November election. LEGAL NOTICES FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Joseph D. Kurger and Jennifer S. Kruger, Husband and Wife to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Flagstar Bnak, FSB, its successors and assigns , Mortgagee, dated August 17, 2006 and recorded August 28, 2006 in Instrument # 1169177 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: Flagstar Bank, FSB, by assignment dated February 1, 2012 and recorded February 10, 2012in Instrument # 201202100001456 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Twenty-Six Thousand Six Hundred Thirty-Three Dollars and Fifteen Cents ($226,633.15) including interest 2.625% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on March 22, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land in the Northeast one-quarter of Section 26, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, described as follows: Beginning at a point on the North line of Section 26, distant South 89 degrees 31 minutes 41 seconds West 457.19 feet from the Northeast corner thereof; thence South 00 degrees 15 minutes 18 seconds West 991.60; thence South 89 degrees 31 minutes 59 seconds West 248.00 feet along the North line of the South 10 acres of the Northeast one-quarter of the Northeast one-quarter of Section 26; thence North 00 degrees 15 minutes 18 seconds East 991.58 feet to the North line of said Section 26; thence North 89 degrees 31 minutes 41 seconds East 248.00 feet to the place of beginning, Hasting Township, Barry County, Michigan. Commonly known as 3888 River Rd, Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 2/23/2012 Flagstar Bank, FSB, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-56331 (02-23)(03-15) NOTICE The Barry County Board of Commissioners is seeking applications from volunteers to serve on the following Boards/Commissions: Agricultural Preservation Board: Natural Resource Conservation representation (2 positions) Building Authority: (1 position) Oversight Committee: Health Solid Waste Association/Environmental Professional (1 position) Planning Commission: (2 positions) Applications may be obtained at the County Administration Office, 3rd floor of the Courthouse, 220 W. State St., Hastings; or www.barrycounty.org; and must be returned no later than 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 14, 2012. Contact 269-945-1284 for more information. 77565879 CITY OF HASTINGS NOTICE OF BOARD OF REVIEW Notice is hereby given that the 2012 March Board of Review of the City of Hastings will meet in the Second Floor Conference Room at City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, for the purpose of reviewing, correcting, and equalizing the 2012 Assessment Roll. Taxpayers wishing to appeal the value assigned their property may appeal to the Board of Review in person (by appointment) or by letter. Taxpayers wishing to appeal in person, please telephone 945-6002 for an appointment. Letter appeals must be received no later than 5:00 PM, March 12, 2012. Organizational Meeting: Tuesday, March 6th • 9:00 AM Hearing Dates: Tuesday, March 13th • 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM Wednesday, March 14th • 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM Tentative factors for property assessments in the City of Hastings will be as follows: RATIO : FACTOR COMMERCIAL . . . . . . . 52.42 . . . . 0.9538 INDUSTRIAL. . . . . . . . . 49.09 . . . . 1.0185 RESIDENTIAL. . . . . . . . 54.15 . . . . 0.9234 PERSONAL . . . . . . . . . . 50.00 . . . . 1.0000 The City of Hastings will provide necessary reasonable aids and services for individuals with disabilities upon five days’ notice to the City Clerk. Individuals requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the City Clerk of the City of Hastings at (269) 945-2468 or by visiting City Hall at 201 East State Street, Hastings. Jackie Timmerman, City Assessor 77566027 SEARCH, continued from page 7 nate this year to negotiate three contracts and settle all three of those.” When it comes to strategic planning, Falcon said it is important to prioritize and evaluate. “This has been a very unique school year in regard to things we need to do and things we have to prioritize,” she said. “As you know, we don’t have a strategic plan in place right now. My experience in developing a strategic plan, specifically at Lakewood ... we went through a process, the board, the leadership team, and we had representation from each of the bargaining units, parents and a couple of students ... We went through the process where we developed our vision and mission statement ... and created ... goals. We did this during summer retreats and then we revisited it in the fall.” Falcon said at the end of each year there was an evaluation to determine if and how much progress had been made toward achieving the goals of the strategic plan. In Hastings, Falcon said she has used the vision and mission statement created by the board prior to her employment with the district to create guiding principals and some goals in four major areas: Administration and financial leadership; student performance and achievement; communication, collaboration and recognition; and, technology education and integration. Based on those goals, Falcon said the district would then create an action plan for he next three years to achieve the goals. She said the superintendent should be evaluated on the success of reaching those goals and milestones. Falcon said she has been able to obtain revenue outside of normal state funding or increase it though partnerships with parochial schools and home-school families to obtain more full-time equivalent funding, three bond issues, and by meeting the criteria for the Best Practices incentive program. Falcon said in order to diffuse a potentially explosive situation, it is necessary to draw on conflict-resolution skills. She said while she was in Kentucky, she worked at a school where there were a lot of gangs and fighting. When the students who were suspended for fighting we readmitted to the school, she said the staff would sit down with the students involved and model and teach them how to talk to each other with respect. “I think I sit before you very humble, and proud of a lot of initiative that the staff have been willing to work with me during the past 18 months,” said Falcon when asked what she feels has been her most creative idea in her current position and whether it has left a mark on education. “I feel very strongly that there are so many great things that we have been able to work on together. The things that I am most proud about is they are still going; it wasn’t a flash in the pan.” Falcon said one of the things of which she is most proud of the district’s new teacher evaluation tool she created with the tenure committee. “I think that this is going to help facilitate the improvement of instruction,” she said. “I am proud of the grading changes we are making six through 12. I am proud of the literacy audits ... in 18 months we’ve made a significant amount of change.” Todd Geerlings earned a bachelor of arts degree with a major in psychology and a minor in math from Hope College and a master of arts degree in education management from Central Michigan University. He earned certification for superintendent, secondary principal and elementary principal certification from the State of Michigan. Prior to being named assistant superintendent of Mona Shores Public Schools, Geerlings held the following posts: Director of special education and personnel, Kentwood Public Schools 2004 to 2005; principal of Pinewood Middle School, Kentwood Public Schools 2000 to 2004; principal of Endeavor Elementary School, Kentwood Public Schools 1996 to 2005; summer school principal at East Kentwood High School 1999 to 2005; assistant principal and athletic director at Pinewood Elementary, 1993; assistant principal and athletic director 1993 to 1996, Fruitport Middle School 1990 to 1993; teacher and coach West Ottawa High School 1987 to 1990; teacher and coach, Grant High School 1984 to 1897; teacher and coach, Muskegon Catholic Central High School, 1982 to 1984; and summer school teacher at Muskegon High School, 1984 to 1990, 1997 and 1998. Geerlings said he can sympathize with the difficult times Hastings Area Schools has been experiencing. “I also, know Hastings is a good community,” he said, “I have sensed the sense of community and also the pride in the co-curricular and extracurricular is involved in and also the academic achievements of the Hastings district. Where you are financially, you are in difficult straits, as are many of the districts in the state.” Geerlings said the financial difficulties mean the district has to make tough decisions about the budget. “What schools need to focus on is how these decisions are going to impact student achievement and how it will impact learning” he said. “There are lots of people involved in making those decisions ... I think that during difficult times people work together ... It will take difficult decisions.. I have made those. I have been part of those, and I’m sure you as a board have ... also.” Geerlings said he has been part of the budget-building process in Mona Shores for the past six years. He said last year the superintendent and the budget director resigned just as the budget process was beginning. “I hired a new finance director and togeth- er we ran the budget together,” he said. “In that process we cut $2 million ... fortunately. we didn’t have to lay off any teaching staff but we did have some lay-offs ... “The process started with a community forum,” said Geerlings. “We involved board members ... We also had each building select key parents ... and we looked at what things we want to maintain as we move forward and what are some things we want to see improved upon ... From there we prioritized ... We did what we thought was best for kids.” With regard to labor relations and negotiations Geerlings said it is important to be transparent — no surprises for either party. “Treat people the way you like to be treated,” he said. “You usually get back what you treat people.” Geerlings said it is important to have a goal and a mission when creating a strategic plan. “Part of strategic planning is what do you do when it doesn’t work,” he added. Because of the length of some of his answers, Geerlings was not able to answer all of the questions, including his experience obtaining revenue outside of normal state funding, describing an explosive situation and what he did to diffuse it, and his most creative idea implemented during his current position and the impact it has had on education. Sean McNatt earned a bachelor of arts degree in general education, business administration and history from Aquinas College, a bachelor of arts degree in business administration from Davenport College, and a master of the arts degree in education leadership from CMU. He is currently working on a degree in educational leadership at CMU. Prior to his employment in Breckenridge, McNatt’s professional experience included: Principal of Bronson Jr./Sr. High School 2003 to 2008; kindergarten through 12 principal at Arenac Eastern High School; teaching business education and social studies at Perry High School 1998 to 2002; and teacher and head administrator at Lakewood Christian School 1997 to 1998. He also served as the girls varsity and boys junior varsity soccer head coach at Lakewood High School 1993 to 1998. McNatt said Hastings Area Schools currently needs to work on relieving its financial strains, and he feels one way to do so is to get the proposed recreational millage passed. He said the district also needs to create a strategic plan. He said he has a strong financial background he can use to help the district improve its financial situation, and he has experience with strategic planning. McNatt said he likes to look at the budgeting process from the standpoint of what is needed and what needs to be preserved, establishing what revenues the district has and share the information with district administrators before talking to the heads of each department, food service, transportation, maintenance, as well as community members. “A lot of those things we implemented,” he said. “Some of them were too costly; they would have had an impact on academics ... and we built the budget from there ... and took it to the board for approval.” Transparency and openness are key to labor relations and negotiations, according to McNatt. He said his district is just beginning the process of creating a strategic plan. “We had one that was a very simple, one page one at one time,” he said. “We’re starting all over again with that process.” He said the superintendent and administrators’ goals should reflect the goals and vision set forth by the board of education. “The philosophy is everyone is on one page and has their own one-page sheet to reach those goals ... for the betterment of the organization.” McNatt said his district’s efforts to reduce energy consumption have paved the way for it to apply for grants and other sources of funds besides normal state funding; he said the district also qualified for additional funds through the state’s Best Practices incentive program. McNatt said he had parents upset about a board member bringing a gun into the school. He told the Hastings board it is best to meet with the concerned parties face to face. “When they understand that you care and you have as much passion for their kids as they do, you develop a mutual understanding that you can build a relationship from,” he said. McNatt said his most creative idea has been taking an empty room in the pressbox at the football field which was turned into a suite that is rented for $125 for each varsity football game, generating a little extra revenue. “That’s just one of the creative things with finances,” he said. Terry Urquhart earned a bachelor of arts degree in archaeology from Western Michigan University, a master of arts degree in education and sports administration from Wayne State University and earned specialist in education and education administration from CMU. In addition to Forest Hills Central, Urquhart’s professional experience includes: Adjunct professor at Concordia University in Ann Arbor 2007 to present; principal of Loy Norrix High School in Kalamazoo 1997 to 2004; principal of Carrollton High School 1990 to 1997; principal of Baldwin High School 1986 to 1990; assistant principal of Bloomingdale High School 1985 to 1986; principal of St. Mary’s High School, Royal Oak, 1978 to 1984. Urquhart said Hastings Area Schools is a district that has had lofty standards and has reached a plateau and has stalled. “It is currently having problems with financing; those are some issues that need to be corrected,” he said. “We need to work together as a board, as a superintendent, ... to make sure we are doing the very best job we can to promote student learning in this district.” Urquhart said he has worked on 29 high school budgets but has never been in the red. “I think budgeting is all about planning and preparation,” he said. “You have to be sure it is based on sound solutions and sound philosophies ... I believe that you have to be open and honest with that budget.” He said openness and honesty are also important components of labor relations and negotiations. “One of my problems is I am too honest,” he said. “... But, I think that is the way to move forward.” Urquhart said strategic planning, to him, means putting together goals and objects for the future; he recommends a five-year strategic plan. He said it is an important tool to ensure quality education for all students in a district. With regard to revenues outside of normal state funding, Urquhart said he has done what he could to ensure the schools where he was administrator received Title I funds and AtRisk funds they qualified to receive. Urquhart did not have time to answer questions regarding revenue sources outside of normal state funding, diffusing a potentially explosive situation, or his most creative idea implemented at his current position. BOWLING SCORES Tuesday Night Mixed Boyce Milk Haulers 68-32; Hurless Machine Shop 60.5-39.5; Hometown Lumber 60.5-39.5; Barry County Red Cross 53-43; JBar Antique Tractors 37-53; Dirt Broke 17-79. Men’s Good Games and Series - C. Winkler 226-457; D. Benner 220-641; S. Hause 200-515; K. Beebe 199-552; G. Hause 190; M. Yost 183. Women’s Good Games and Series - B. Wilkins 204; D. Service 192-420; S. Beebe 183; B. Smith 166; F. Smith 165; A. Nicholson 158. Thurs. Angels Rock-N-Bowlers 57.5-34.5; Miller Farm Repair 56.5-35.5; Moore’s Apts. 54-38; Hastings Bowl 52-36; Riverfront Fin. Ser. 4943; Cathy’s Cut & Curl 44-48; Varney’s Const. 44-48. High Game and Series - J. Zaagman 221597; J. Wyant 168; C. Kuhlman 190; J. Moore 145; L. Watson 161; B. Noteboom 201; L. Brandt 173; Ca. Shellenbarger 150; N. Newton 127. Tuesday Trios Rollarama 68-32; CB’s 63-37; Look Insurance 58-42; Shirlee’s Team 57.5-42.5; Lu’s Team 57-43; Blair Landscaping** 52-44; Team Turkey 48-52; Twisted Sisters 48-52; Classic 3 44-56; Coleman Agency** 42-55; Trouble 39-61; Ghost Team 12.5-87.5 Blair Landscaping and Coleman Agency need to make up a game. High game and series - A. Trumble 124330; S. Faught 175-366; S. Croaa 119-346; D. Hunt 173-493; S. McKee 209-555; C. Allwardt 160-423. Monday Mixerettes Kent Oil 53.5-42.5; Dean’s Dolls 52.5-43.5; NBT 52.5-43.5; Nashville Chiropractic 46.549.5; Dewey’s Auto Body 45-47; James Process Service 34-58. Good games and series - B. Hathaway 190-454; T. Redman 147-393; M. Rodgers 159; C. Wilcox 171; D. Snyder 179; T. Christopher 178; Dunham 174-482; N. Potter 159; K. Fowler 186; V. Carr 209-500; B. Anders 150; D. Anders 164. Senior Citizens Butterfingers 59-37; Just Having Fun 57.5.38.5; Kuempel 51-45; Three Gals and a Guy 48-48; M&M’s 47-49; Usedtobe #1 46-50; King Pins 46-50; Sun Risers 45.5-50.5; Early Risers 45-51; Ward’s Friends 35-61. Good games and series women - A. Tasker 142-381; Y. Markley 162; R. Pitts 143; B. Maker 181-485; G. Scobey 171; J. Gasper 187; C. Stuart 173-460; M. Wieland 177; E. Ulrich 174; P. Freeman 164-455. Good games and series men - R. Boniface 168; L. Brandt 190-489; L. Markley 152; W. Talsma 224-573; B. Terry 203; R. Walker 182497; D. Kiersey 177; R. Hart 179; L. Dunn 211-512; G. Forbey 155. Wednesday P.M. Mills Landing 64-32; Four Pals 56.5-39.5; The River 53-43; Eye & ENT 51-45; Hair Care 50.5-41.5*. * Games to be made up. Good games and series - N. Potter 160; N. Boniface 172; J. Pettengill 124; G. Meaney 178; P. Shellington 167-442; Y. Cheeseman 166. Saturday Majors (Youth League) Strikers 44-24; Leones 42-26; Hastings Bowl 33.5-34.5; Zombies 32.5-35.5; Whatever 30.5-37.5; Great Balls of Fire 21.546.5. Girls good games and series - S. Routh 138-354. Boys good games and series - J. Johnson 178-461; W. Arnold 183; J. Elliott 110-306; J. Clous 145-370; K. Kenyon 155-351; J. Thompson 169-421; T. Cheeseman 103. �Page 14 — Thursday, February 23, 2012 — The Hastings Banner POLICE BEAT Traveling meth operation halted A Michigan State Trooper who stopped a vehicle on traffic violations Feb. 15 in Orangeville Township learned the driver had an expired license. The driver, a 29-year-old Middleville man, became uncooperative and was taken into custody for resisting and obstructing an officer. Suspected methamphetamine was found in his pocket, and items used in the manufacture of meth were found in his vehicle. He was cited and taken to the Barry County Jail on charges of operating on an expired license, resisting a police officer, possession of methamphetamine and possession of methamphetamine components. Credit card attracts daughter Hastings Officers took a complaint at the office Feb. 15, from an alleged victim of credit card fraud. The victim, a 64-year-old Hastings woman, reported she had received her credit card statement for a card which had not been used recently. Someone had charged $331 on the card. After posting a Facebook notice about her willingness to report the incident to the police, the victim’s daughter admitted to the use of the card. Further investigation revealed that the card was allegedly taken and used during the time that the victim had allowed the suspect to stay at her home in Hastings. The suspect, a 44-yearold Hastings woman, was contacted and arrested for larceny and credit card fraud. Troopers tipped off after illicit purchase Michigan State Troopers responded to a tip Feb. 15 that a subject with known history of methamphetamine use had just purchased methamphetamine components at the Hastings Kmart. Troopers made contact with the suspect in the Kmart parking lot. When the trooper returned to his patrol car to check the suspect's ID, the suspect fled in his vehicle. As troopers followed, the suspect threw several items out of his driver's window, which were later recovered by a Barry County Deputy and identified as components used in the manufacture of methamphetamine. The pursuit continued for approximately 10 minutes until the Trooper was able to terminate the chase. Both vehicles sustained minor damage, with no injuries. The 38-yearold Middleville man was arrested and lodged at Barry County Jail on driving on suspended license, resisting police, third degree fleeing police, and operating/maintaining a methamphetamine laboratory. Six teens not practicing softball Hastings officers were called to the Hastings Area Schools softball practice field Feb. 16, for the reported breaking and entering of the press box. As officers arrived they discovered six individuals, four males and two females inside the building. Officers took all six into custody at that time. An additional subject had managed to escape as officers arrived. A jacket and cell phone belonging to the escapee had been left at the scene. All those under 18 years old were released to their parents. They are facing formal charges in Juvenile Court for illegal entry, in addition to being suspended from school. Stolen headphones recovered Hastings Police took a complaint Feb. 15 regarding stolen headphones valued at $200. The victim, a 17-year-old Hastings High School student, reported the headphones had been stolen from his school locker. A suspect was identified by school officials after the missing headphones were located in a locker. The suspect, a 17-year-old student, admitted to the theft. Formal charges have been authorized for larceny in a building. in the bar. Witnesses said the man had been escorted from the bar and he had struck one of the bar staff. After failing a Breathalyzer test he was arrested. During a search, a quantity of suspected marijuana was located in the man’s jacket. He denied the marijuana was his, and the jacket he was wearing also was not his. Car payment remains liquid Hastings Police were called to South Hanover Street Feb. 17 after the caller reported he was about to repossess a car from one of the residents and that he needed a police presence. Officers stood ready while the two discussed money owed on the car. At one point it was determined that the two occupants of the home may have liquor in the home and were less than 21 years old. After being questioned, both residents admitted to the alcohol. Officers then seized the alcohol and cited the two for being minors in possession. Delton man rolls, confesses, flees, goes to jail Deputies responded Feb. 18, to a rollover accident on South M-37 near Battle Creek. Upon arrival, emergency personnel were attending to the driver, who was on backboard and being loaded into an ambulance. The 31-year-old Delton man admitted to deputies he had been drinking and had consumed a pint of whiskey before the crash. Because of the man’s injuries, no sobriety tests were performed and he refused to take a Breathalyzer test. He also said his driver’s license was suspended. Then he told deputies he believed he had warrants. The man was transported to Bronson Hospital in Kalamazoo. Battle Creek Police were alerted and asked to check on the man’s status and confirmed he had outstanding warrants. Deputies were later informed the man attempted to flee the hospital and was in the custody of Battle Creek Police. Deputies met with Battle Creek Police for a transfer of the subject who was then lodged at the Barry County Jail. Warrants include a failure to appear for operating while intoxicated in Barry County; probation violation for larceny out of Kalamazoo; contempt of court for retail fraud out of Kalamazoo. Secluded park is not enough Hastings officers were on patrol Feb. 18 when they came across a parked vehicle at the Zhigaawin Recreation Trail, located on Hammond Road. The vehicle was observed in the dark with two occupants. An Officer made contact with the male occupants. During questioning the officer smelled burnt marijuana and determined that both had been using marijuana at the site. The passenger, a 19-year-old Delton man, admitted the small amount of suspected marijuana located in the car was his. He was arrested. The driver, a 20-year-old Middleville man, admitted to smoking marijuana, was released and ordered not to drive from the scene. The report was forwarded to the Prosecutors office for review. Possible charges against the driver are pending. Regulator removed from propane tank A propane regulator was removed from a tank on Scotts Drive in Delton and reported to sheriff’s deputies Feb. 9. When the homeowners noticed the heat was not working, they investigated and saw that the regulator was missing from their propane tank. They told deputies they had recently had their propane filled and did not feel the propane company would take the regulator. No other items or components were taken. No one was suspected. The propane tank was checked for damage and safety. The homeowners said they would contact the propane vendor the following day for a replacement and would use an electric heater for the evening. The case is inactive pending more information. Man denies ownership of pot and Candy cutoff leads jacket to fight On Feb. 19, Hastings Officers responded to a bar fight outside the Old Towne Tavern, on South Jefferson Street. While en route, officers were advised that the subject causing the problem was now kicking and punching a vehicle and possibly starting another fight in a nearby parking lot. Officers were also advised that the subject in question had just recently been removed from the bar. As Officers arrived, a pick up truck was pointed out leaving the lot. The truck was stopped. Officers noticed the man’s knuckles were bleeding. The 21-year-old Middleville man said he had been punching his “turn signal”, but that he was not the one causing problems Nashville Police Chief Schray and a Barry County Deputy were dispatched Feb. 9 to an East Brown Road residence, Lake Odessa, for a possible domestic disturbance. The caller said she and her 67-year-old husband were driving home, when the stopped at the pharmacy to get a prescription filled. When they continued on the drive home, the woman reportedly asked her husband to stop at the store for some candy. The wife said her husband got upset and punched her in the arm while he was driving. When the couple got home they continued to argue and she called 911. Deputies observed the woman’s arm and did not find any marks. The woman said she did not want to press charges. The report was turned over to the prosecutor’s office. Friends don’t let friends hold the contraband On Feb. 8, Deputies were informed of possible marijuana found in the Lakewood Middle School girl’s bathroom. A 14-year-old suspect admitted her high school boyfriend had asked her to dispose of the marijuana bag. With her mother present, deputies asked the girl who her boyfriend was and how they got the marijuana. She said they sometimes smoke at the bus stop, and one of the boy’s friends gets it from an adult who may have a medical marijuana card. Two glass smoking pipes were also found in the girl’s locker, but were claimed by a friend who had switched lockers with her. A request for charges of possession of marijuana on both girls were requested from the Prosecutor’s office. In connection with the middle school discovery, an investigation was also conducted at Lakewood High School. Two more containers of marijuana were found in the possession of the first suspect’s 15-year-old boyfriend. The boy was interviewed by a deputy in the presence of his parents. He admitted one of the containers was his, the other was his friend’s. The 15-year-old friend was then interviewed in the presence of his stepfather. The boy denied the marijuana was his. The stepfather said his wife has a card, but she keeps her marijuana hidden and locked away. Charges are being sought against the two boys. Drifting driver draws attention Hastings officers stopped a suspected drunk driver Feb. 18 on West State Road for crossing the centerline several times and wandering within the lane. The driver, identified as a 23-year-old Middleville man, was given roadside sobriety tests to determine if he was intoxicated. After performing the tests and registering a .218 percent blood-alcohol level, he was taken into custody. Cholesterol meds in high demand Deputies were dispatched Feb. 15, to a Nashville home on M-79 for the reported theft of prescription medications. The woman caller said her mail-order cholesterol medication was never delivered. When she contacted the post office they confirmed it had been delivered with date and time of delivery. Her medication company requested a police report in order to replace the medication. The medication is suspected stolen from the complainant’s mailbox and the case remains open pending further information. Man cooperates after stressing out Two deputies and a posse member responded to a reported domestic situation Feb. 19, at a Green Meadows Drive residence in Middleville. Deputies were informed a man and wife were having a dispute and the man was intoxicated. Further, the 28-year-old Middleville man was wearing a military grade flak jacket and had removed a handgun from its case. With one deputy on the scene, the garage door opened halfway and closed again. Central Dispatch informed the deputy the man was now mad because law enforcement had arrived. When the second deputy arrived, the man opened the garage door and walked out in the camouflage flak jacket and a motorcycle helmet. Deputies shouted orders to the man while covering the subject with patrol rifle and service pistols. The man obeyed by laying on the ground on his stomach with arms out to his side. Deputies approached, hand-cuffed the subject and patted him down for weapons. He was unarmed and told deputies his .40 caliber Springfield handgun was on a shelf in the garage. Deputies found the weapon, which was not loaded, and confiscated the weapon. The man said he was a police officer with the military police, knew the deputies had a job to do, and would cooperate. He admitted to having post-traumatic stress disorder and is on disability. His Breathalyzer registered .118 percent. A deputy made contact with the man’s wife inside the residence. She said they had been bowling that night and had stopped at the local bar for a few drinks. He had gone home first and she followed later. The woman said her husband was acting weird and was upset it took her so long to come home from the bar. She told deputies she then locked him out of the house and locked herself in the bedroom, calling 911, because she didn’t know what he would do. The man was able to get back into the house, and the locked bedroom. Reportedly, he walked into the bedroom and took the handgun from the closet, then walked out. The subject was transported to Pennock Hospital for evaluation where he provided blood and urine samples and agreed to speak with a mental health professional. He was transported to Forest View Hospital in Grand Rapids. The report was forwarded to the prosecutor’s office and the case remains open. HMS Gold team wins invite The Saxon Gold team won the 37th Annual Hastings Invitational Saturday, finishing with 234 points. Delton was second with 198 points, followed by Crestwood 174.5 and Byron Center 169 in the top four. The Saxon Gold team had 16 wrestlers place, while the Saxon Blue team had four placers. Hastings wrestlers who finished in first place were Olivia Barrett, Mitchell Sarhatt, Danny Hooten, Luke Leinaar, Tommy Patterson and Sam Cappon. Placing second for the Saxons were Chase Reaser and Ray Johnson. John Hasty and Devin Planck finished in third place. Wrestlers bringing home fourth place medals were Jon Cook, Sam Johnson, Brandon Frederick, Billy Smith, Kenny Redman, Justice Lamance, Quentin Wigg, Dakota Briggs, Tyler Youngs and Colton Dillon. Maple Valley will send pair to state finals at the Palace Six of the eight wrestlers in the 215-pound weight class at Saturday’s Division 4 Individual Regional Tournament in Constantine had won more matches than Maple Valley senior Alejandro Reid had even wrestled this season. That didn’t slow Reid down much though. He advanced to the 215-pound championship match, where he fell 10-0 to Martin’s McKinnon Elkins. That runner-up finish earned him a spot in the March 1-3 Individual State Finals at the Palace of Auburn Hills, and improved his season record to 16-6. He’ll be joined there by junior teammate Cash Flower, who was third in the 152-pound weight class Saturday. Flower, who is 36-11 this winter, was the Lions’ lone regional qualifier a year ago and Maple Valley didn’t have anyone advance to the state finals. Reid started the day Saturday by besting Hartford’s Adan Barajas 8-4, then he scored a 4-1 win over Covert’s Mario Aburto in the championship semifinals. Flower opened the tournament with a pin of Lawrence’s James Reeder, but he was then pinned himself by Lawton’s Colton Callaway in the championship semifinals. Flower earned a spot at the Palace by winning his blood round (consolation semifinal) match, 9-5 in overtime, against Lawton’s Brody Conner. He then finished his day with a 19-9 win over Galesburg-Augusta’s Jesse Ring in the match for third place. There were two other Lions in action at Constantine Saturday. Andrew Zank won his first consolation match by default, but was then downed in the blood round, 3-0, by Bangor’s Corless Parker. Maple Valley 112-pounder Austin Davis was 0-2 on the day. Lion cheer finishes in 12th place at tourney The Maple Valley varsity competitive cheer team’s season came to an end Saturday at the Division 4 District Tournament hosted by Michigan Center. The Lions were 12th in the 13-team meet with a final score of 566.6720. The top four teams at the district advance to this Saturday’s regional round of the state tournament. Michigan Center took the top honors Saturday, finishing with a score of 748.2276. Pewamo-Westphalia was second with a score of 739.6482, followed by Laingsburg 704.4600 and Springport 668.4600. Laingsburg edged Vandercook Lake for the final regional qualifying spot by just over a a point. Maple Valley scored a 174.9 in round one, a 144.8720 in round two and a 246.9 in round three. A different team had the highest score in each of the three rounds. Pewamo-Westphalia scored a 224.5 to lead after round one. Michigan Center had the top round two score, a 221.7276. In round three, Laingsburg had the top score, a 304.6. Michigan Center also added a 222.0 in round one and a 304.5 in round three to earn the day’s championship. Banner CLASSIFIEDS For Sale National Ads Help Wanted AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is deceptive, fraudulent or might otherwise violate law or accepted standards of taste. However, this publication does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the quality of goods or services advertised. 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The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 23, 2012 — Page 15 Buchanan five points better than Vikes at regional by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Throughout most of this season, the Vikings holding a one-point lead with just the four heaviest weight classes to go would have meant a win for the Lakewood varsity wrestling team. Not on Wednesday. Buchanan topped the Vikings 34-29 in the Division 3 Regional Semifinals at Delton Kellogg High School, getting two pins in those final four matches. Lakewood 215-pounder Lars Pyrzinski (bottom) tries to shake off Buchanan’s Gage Hutchinson during their match in Wednesday’s Division 3 Regional Semifinal at Delton Kellogg High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Gage Hutchison secured the win for the Bucks, pinning Lars Pyrzinski in the 215pound match. Hutchison improved to 49-0 on the season with the win. He also pinned Pyrzinski when the two met in the 215-pound finals at the Division 3 Individual District Tournament at Lakewood High School last Saturday. Buchanan also got a pin at 171 pounds, and limited the Vikings to three-point decisions in the 189-pound and 285-pound matches. “They’re our scorers,” Lakewood head coach Bob Veitch said of his heavyweights. “When they’re strong and can limit us up top, we’re in a little bit of trouble.” Jack Tromp scored a 7-0- win for the Vikings at 189, while Garrett Hyatt edged Buchanan’s Jim DeVlaminck 7-6 in the final bout of the night at 285 pounds. Lakewood led the dual 23-22 after Garrett Phelps’ 16-7 major decision in the 160-pound match. “We just didn’t get the rally going,” said Veitch. “It was the first time there for some of our young kids. They just haven’t quite figured out what’s got to happen at the level we’re at. Hopefully, it was a learning experience for us.” The Vikings started the night with a 16-6 lead, thanks in part to forfeits at 103 pounds and 119 pounds. Austin Gostnell and Austin Kietzman scored those wins for the Vikings, while the Bucks got a pin in the 112-pound match. At 125 pounds, Dylan Shoup scored a major decision for Lakewood. The Vikings still had their ten-point lead two matches later, with the Bucks scoring a decision at 130 pounds and Lakewood getting a 2-1 win from Jordan Bennett in the 135- Lakewood’s Markus Temple works on top of his opponent from Buchanan during their 171-pound match at Delton Kellogg High School Wednesday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) pound match. Buchanan took a 22-19 lead in the dual with a major decision at 140, a pin at 145, and a decision at 152 pounds. Buchanan went on to fall to Otsego in the regional championship match. Lakewood’s team season ends with a 24-5 record. “At the beginning of the year, I thought the most we’d win was ten duals,” said Veitch. “We exceeded what we expected. I thought ten wins would be tops, and I never thought we’d win the league. Never thought we’d win 24 duals either. As a whole I thought we did very well for ourselves. It gives us something to look forward to for next year.” Young and old Trojans team up to top the Scots by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Thornapple Kellogg senior guard Greg Hamilton fired a pass to his younger brother, freshman Tommy Hamilton, who knocked down a three-pointer with just under a minute remaining for the final points of the third quarter Friday against Caledonia. Those were Tommy’s first varsity points, in his first varsity contest. He returned the favor, assisting Greg for a three for the first bucket of the fourth quarter. Greg’s three pushed the Trojan varsity boys’ basketball team’s lead to more than 20 points for the first time, and TK went on to a 60-33 win over visiting Caledonia in O-K Gold Conference action. “He was nervous, but he played well. It was fun,” said Greg. He said the two played together with other Trojan players some this summer, but they really hadn’t played on the same team much since he was in fifth grade. Tommy and sophomore Louis Koepke both got their first varsity minutes for TK Friday. The Trojan varsity needed the reinforcements with a few guys out with injury and illness. “We were going to bring them up for the postseason, at district time, but seeing as how we didn’t have a game on Tuesday it seemed like a pretty good time to bring them up and get them in the swing of things,” said TK head coach Mike Rynearson. “I told my team, they’re going to play. They’re not going to come up and sit. They’re going to play. Otherwise, we’d leave them (on the JV) and let them play. We’re going to bring them up, let them play a little bit and see what they give us. Tommy Hamilton takes care of the ball, he hit that big triple.” Greg led TK to the big win with 20 points, five assists and five rebounds. That three Thornapple Kellogg’s Dylan VanPutten goes in for a lay-up during the second quarter Friday against Caledonia. (Photo by Brett Bremer) accounted for all of Tommy’s points, but he added two assists and didn’t turn the ball over. The Trojans also got ten points and nine rebounds from Caden Francisco, and 13 points from Brendon Hudson. DJ Nolff chipped in four points, four assists and five rebounds. Caledonia scored the game’s first point, but three by Greg Hamilton capped off a 11-0 Trojan run over the next six minutes. The Scots fought back to tie the game at 17-17 in the second quarter, but another three by Greg put TK back in front with a minute and a half before the half and TK led the rest of the way. The Trojans led 25-19 at the half, then went on a 12-0 run to start the second half. “To me it really looked like we came out and we wanted it more than they did,” Rynearson said. “It’s not that they didn’t try. They didn’t look like themselves. There was something not clicking there.” “What it comes down to is we were hungrier than they were. We wanted it more. You know, I constantly tell my guys that is what it comes down to: who wants to fight the hardest, who’s the toughest. The team that’s tougher is going to win nine times out of ten.” Caledonia got eight points from Stephen Spencer in the loss, and seven from Brandon Martin. “We’re improving. We’re still looking to get better,” said Greg Hamilton. “We had some mistakes in the first half, but in the second half we worked harder defensively. I think we had a really good defensive game.” TK is now 11-8 overall and 6-7 in the Gold. The Trojans fell to the league champions from Ottawa Hills in Grand Rapids Tuesday, as the Bengals improved to 15-4 overall and 12-1 in the league with a 61-40 win. The Trojans led 13-10 after one quarter, but were outscored 13-2 in the second to go into the half down 23-15. The Bengals extended their lead late with a 24-15 fourth-quarter run. Greg Hamilton had ten points for TK, while Francisco added eight and Tommy Hamilton seven. Ottawa Hills got 22 points from Dewayne Gordon and eight each from Shakur Sanders and Abraham Dock. The Trojans will be at home to take on South Christian Friday. TK doesn’t have a game on the schedule during the final week of the regular season. Thornapple Kellogg guard Grand Allison is chased by Caledonia’s Brandon Martin as he dribbles around the top of the key Friday night. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Lakewood cheer team wins its first district title by Brett Bremer Sports Editor It was a long wait between round two and round three performances for the Vikings Saturday. Lakewood’s varsity competitive cheer team had to wait through eight round two performances and then all 12 of its competitors’ round three performances before taking the mat for the final time. During that stretch the Vikings did learn that they were leading the Division 3 District Tournament at Allegan High School heading into the third and final round. “For me, (it was) awful,” Lakewood head coach Kim Martin said of the wait. “It’s one thing to go in to your round three knowing you’re going to be second, or third, or fourth and knowing you’re still going to get out of here and go to regionals, but knowing that you’re in the top spot going into that round it just makes for that much more pressure. I mean, I knew the girls had it in them, but we’ve had a rough round three the last couple times. So, it was just kind of which team is Lakewood’s varsity competitive cheer team celebrates as its announced as the district champion Saturday at Allegan High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) going to show up on the mat?” Her girls took a different approach to the wait. “We were actually just being really weird and jumping around and dancing to try to get pumped up and go, because we usually get really, overly nervous to go out for round three,” said Viking senior captain Kathryn Kutas. “It kind of bites us in the butt, being nervous.” Shaking out the nerves worked. Lakewood won its first ever district championship, scoring a 299.0 in round three for a three-round total score of 715.3858. Runnerup Otsego, which trailed by just under five points after the first two rounds, scored a 293.3 in round three for a final score of 704.3712. “This is their best round three yet,” said Martin, “not the best scores they’ve had, but the best round three they’ve had. I’m very proud of them. Very proud of them.” Paw Paw was third in the overall standings with a score of 685.9720. The Redskins were hurt by a 22-point deduction in round one, which was taken off of their total of 200.5 in the round. The Redskins then added a 207.1720 in round two and a 300.3 in round three. Those were the highest scores in each of those final two rounds. Otsego had the best round one score, a 214.2. Lakewood opened the action with a 213.9 in round one, then added a 202.4858 in round two. “We didn’t want to be known as falling short,” said Viking senior captain Tiffani Ackerson. “We wanted to come out and prove everyone wrong, that we can do this. We came in under the radar and took everyone by surprise.” Lakewood’s league-mates from Portland earned the fourth and final regional qualifying spot with a score of 641.1212. Delton Kellogg was fifth heading into round three, and finished sixth with a total score of 637.3008. Coloma edged the Panthers for fifth with a score of 639.8160. Delton Kellogg scored a 195.4 in round one and a 176.2008 in round two. The Panthers then tacked on a 265.7 in round three. After having the fifth best round one score, and the fourth best score in round two, that third round score was just tenth among the 13 teams. Comstock was seventh in the final standings with a score of 630.7456, followed by Berrien Springs 629.8452, Pennfield 614.6404, Allegan 611.1592, Three Rivers 608.6250, Hopkins 563.1040 and Buchanan 453.4870. Lakewood will head to Otsego Saturday for its Division 3 Regional Tournament, which is scheduled to begin at 4 p.m. A Delton Kellogg stunt group performs during round three at Saturday’s Division 3 District Tournament hosted by Allegan High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) �Page 16 — Thursday, February 23, 2012 — The Hastings Banner DK suffers third KVA loss, but title still in reach by Brett Bremer Sports Editor “1984” and “1981”. Those are the only two numbers the Delton Kellogg varsity boys’ basketball program has added to the banner on the wall in the Delton Kellogg High School gymnasium in the last 30 years. The Panthers won a district championship in 1984, while their last conference title came at the end of the 1980-81 season. The Panthers are two wins away from changing that. “Win two games. Win two conference games,” said Delton Kellogg head coach Mike Murray. “We’ve talked about it for two years. We’ve talked about changing the banner. That’s been the mantra.” The Panthers close out the league season with home games against Pennfield Friday and Olivet next Thursday. Delton Kellogg and Olivet are currently tied for the Kalamazoo Valley Association lead at 13-3 after Tuesday night’s action. Delton has only lost to Eagles this season, falling in its first meeting with Schoolcraft’s Benny Clark beats Delton Kellogg’s Norm O’Meara to a loose ball in the back-court as the Panthers press during the second half Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Olivet and dropping both of its KVA contests with Schoolcraft. Schoolcraft scored a 68-60 win over the Panthers at Delton Kellogg High School Tuesday, somehow weathering a couple of impressive second half rallies by the Delton boys. Schoolcraft is in third place in the league standings at 12-4. “You’ve got to give a lot of credit to them for how hard they’ve played. It was the same thing down there at their place, the only difference was we played hard tonight too,” Murray said. “We didn’t play our game down there. Tonight looked a lot more like us and how we want to play. We had a lay-up with a minute left to go to tie it and it didn’t drop, but we were right there and we’re going to keep fighting.” Trailing in the second half Delton Kellogg was forced to press Schoolcraft, something the Panthers do little of in practice and even less of in games. Zach Meyers managed a steal in the corner and broke towards the basket, but his lay-up attempt rimmed out, and Schoolcraft hit six free throws the rest of the way to extend its lead from 62-60. Meyers was beating himself up a little bit after the game, but the Panthers may not have even been in that positions without a couple of big offense rebounds he’d snatched away from the Eagles earlier. The Panthers certainly wouldn’t have been in that position without a stellar offensive second half from Ryan Watson and Norm O’Meara. Schoolcraft snapped a 20-20 tie with a 153 run to close out the first half, and pushed its lead to as large as 37-23 in the opening minute of the third quarter. Mitchell Wandell attacked the rim for a couple of buckets to cut the Eagle lead down to ten, then a Watson steal led to a bucket for Connor Wolschleger. That run was followed by a game of canyou-top-this which had the teams trading the lead back and forth until Schoolcraft came away with a 48-46 lead at the end of the third quarter. The stretch included three threes by Watson and two by O’Meara, as well as the Eagles drilling a couple triples at the other end. Despite a cold start to the game, Watson hits five threes and was a perfect 7-for-7 from the free throw line to lead Delton with 24 points. O’Meara hit four threes to finish with 12 points. Wandell also added 12 points for the Panthers. Delton’s last lead came at 46-45, on a three taken it all day every day. The kids are a little hurt right now. They’re always hurt when they lay it on the line like that and we don’t get the result that we want, but you can’t say enough about how hard our kids are playing.” Delton is 14-3 overall this season. The Panthers scored win number 14 Friday, topping Galesburg-Augusta 59-44 on the road. After falling behind 12-7 in the opening quarter, Delton rallied to take a 25-20 lead at the half, then extended the advantage throughout the second half. Wandell led the way for Delton with 22 points. Watson chipped in 12 and Wolschleger ten. O’Meara finished with eight points. The Rams got 12 points from Austin Pierce and seven from Tyler Woodard. In between the final two league games, Delton will travel to Allegan for a non-conference contest Tuesday. Delton Kellogg guard Ryan Watson dribbles around Schoolcraft’s Benny Clark during the first half Tuesday night. (Photo by Brett Bremer) by O’Meara with just over two and a half minutes to play in the third quarter. Schoolcraft quickly took the lead back though with guard Cam Schwartz attacking the basket for two points. That was a problem for Delton all evening. Schwartz finished with 22 points. “We missed a couple defensive assignments overall on Schwartz, who’s a heck of a ball player,” Murray said. “We had him scouted pretty well, but he got to do what he does best which is get downhill on us and finish with his right hand, which for us we were trying not to let him do.” The Eagles also got 18 points from Luke Ryskamp and 14 from Bryan Jones. Jones was 6-of-7 at the free throw line, and Ryskamp went 6-of-8 at the stripe. “We’re still in first, no matter what happened tonight we’re still in first,” Murray said. “If you told me and my kids with two conference games to go that we had a chance to beat Olivet for first place, we would have Delton Kellogg’s Mitchell Wandell rises above Schoolcraft’s Luke Ryskamp to put a shot up during the second half Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) DK 8-0 against teams in its Trio of Trojans and a Saxon advance in D2 district tournament this year Wins over Schoolcraft and GalesburgAugusta, on Tuesday and Friday, improved the Delton Kellogg varsity girls’ basketball team’s overall record to 16-3 on the season. That’s the most victories by a Delton Kellogg varsity girls’ basketball team since 1988, and moves the Panthers’ record in the Kalamazoo Valley Association to 14-3. The Panthers would need a miracle to earn a share of the league title this year. With one game left the Panthers are one game back of Olivet. The Eagles take on Maple Valley to close out the regular season Friday while the Delton girls host Pennfield. Maybe more important than the conference wins at this point is the fact that the Panthers are now 8-0 against teams they could possibly face in their district tournament next week. That includes two wins over Schoolcraft, Galesburg-Augusta, Hackett Catholic Central and Kalamazoo Christian. The Panthers will open district play Wednesday at Galesburg-Augusta High School, against the winner of the opening round game between Hackett and Schoolcraft which will be played Monday. Delton hasn’t faced Lawton, who will take on Kalamazoo Christian in the other opening round game Monday. The Delton Kellogg girls scored a 44-28 win at Schoolcraft Tuesday, jumping out to a 31-13 lead in the first half. Rachel Parker led the Panthers with ten points. Adrianna Culbert added nine points, Andrea Polley seven and Kristen Mohn had six. Kari Feddema led the Eagles with seven points. A good start turned into nearly as lopsided a final score Friday, as the Panthers topped Galesburg-Augusta 51-35 on the road. Delton led 13-7 after one quarter, then pushed its lead to 32-19 at the half. Polley had 14 points in the win over the Rams and Culbert added 13. The Panthers also got eight points from Mallory Sewell and six from Brooke Martin. Galesburg-Augusta got seven points each from Kari Thompson and Holly DeLeon. Schoolcraft pulls away from Maple Valley boys in fourth Schoolcraft went on a 16-4 run in the fourth quarter to eliminate any chance of a Lion comeback Friday The Eagles broke a 35-35 tie with that fourth quarter run, scoring a 51-39 KVA win. “They went to a 3-2 zone against us, and that kind of frustrated our guys a little bit,” said Maple Valley head coach Chris Ewing. The Lions had knocked down a couple of threes before the Eagles switched up their defense in the fourth quarter, and had been getting some good penetration from guard Garrett Reid. Despite being slowed down in the fourth quarter, Reid still finished with 18 points. The Lions also got seven points from Garret Mater and five from Anthony Mahler. Austin Gonser had four points and nine rebounds, while Garrett Miller chipped in seven boards and three points. Ewing was pleased with the play of Mahler, Gonser and all his sophomores. “They’re playing, not like sophomores anymore, but like second year juniors. They’ve gained confidence that they can play at the varsity level. It’s going to be exciting the rest of the year with these guys.” Schoolcraft was excited by the 14 points from Evan Pratt Friday, and 13 more from Cam Schwartz. The Lions are now 2-15 overall this season, and 1-15 in the KVA. Maple Valley hosted its final home game of the season Tuesday, a 61-41 loss to Pennfield. The Panthers jumped out on the Lions in the first half, building a 26-16 lead by the break. Jake Grimes led the way for Pennfield with 14 points, while Evan Bish and Jonathan Everett added 12 points each and Garrett Scharns ten. Maple Valley got 15 points from Reid and six from Micah Bomley. The Lions would have had an easier time staying in the ballgame if they’d knocked down a few more free throws. They shot 34 in the contest, but made just 15. The Lions go on the road Friday to take on Olivet. Trojan senior heavyweight Adrian Foster still hasn’t wrestled a whole period. Foster improved to 44-0 on the season in winning the 285-pound weight class at Saturday’s Division 2 Individual Regional Tournament at Thornapple Kellogg High School. He’s one of four members of the Thornapple Kellogg varsity wrestling team who qualified for the Division 2 State Finals which will be held March 1-3 at the Palace of Auburn Hills, by finishing in the top four in his weight class Saturday. Nate Iveson at 130 pounds and Dan Dykstra at 171 were both third in their respective weight classes, while Chris Poland at 103 placed fourth. They’ll be Viking girls’ team stretches win-streak to four games There were plenty of distractions for the Vikings Friday. Senior Night. Parents Night. Winterfest. “You always worry as a coach that the kids will get distracted with all of the outside activities,” said Lakewood varsity girls’ basketball coach Denny Frost. “We challenged our seniors to go out on a good note, and they really responded.” Lakewood improved to 5-4 in the Capital Area Activities Conference White Division with a 51-36 win over visiting Perry. “I was really happy for our seniors Hannah (DeJong), Kritin (Hilley) and Ashley (Jemison),” said Frost. “They are great kids that work extremely hard. They are such good people that we will really miss next year.” The Vikings will have some solid juniors back next year though. Juniors were the Vikings two leading scorers Friday. Madi King poured in 22 points, while Emily Kutch finished with 13. “We made some adjustments at half to get the ball inside more, and Hannah did a nice job at the high post to free up Kutch. We were more patient and rotated the ball better, which opened up some driving lanes for Madi.” King also had five rebounds, three assists and six steals. Lakewood led 22-17 at the half, and improved on that with a 22-6 run in the third quarter. “We were as solid on defense as we have been all year,” said Frost. “We struggled with Perry’s zone in the first half. We were a little too excited and didn’t really get the best shots.” Liz Campeau led the Vikings on the boards with seven. Hilley had six points and four steals. Jemison finished with five points and three steals, as well as two assists. Michelle Billington led Perry with ten points, and her teammate Liz Speaks added nine. The Vikings are now 9-10 overall this season, they’ll close out conference play Friday at Lansing Catholic. Ramblers score CAAC-White win over the Lakewood boys Perry topped the Lakewood varsity boys’ basketball team 63-56 at Lakewood High School Friday. The Ramblers built a 28-22 lead in the first half, which the Vikings erased in the third quarter. The two teams were tied at 40-40 heading into the final eight minutes. Gabe Woodworth scored all ten of his points in the second half, including seven in the fourth quarter to help power Perry to the win. He was one of four Ramblers in double figures. Larry Bogner and Andy Price also had ten points each, and Austin Dunn led the way with 13. As a team, the Ramblers were 8-of-11 at the free throw line in the fourth quarter to close out the Vikings. Lakewood had a solid night at the free throw line too, going 17-of-22. Jordan Cooper was a perfect 7-of-7 and finished with 11 points for Lakewood. David Parks had a huge night at the threepoint line, knocking down five. He finished with 17 points. The Vikings also got ten points from Spencer Palmer and eight from Jacob Buehler. Dylan Durkee had six points, all at the free throw line. Lakewood returns to action Friday at Lansing Catholic. joined at the Palace by Hastings’ Kenny Cross, who was fourth at 160 pounds Saturday. Foster pinned Hamilton’s Will Braschler 1 minute and 34 seconds into their 285-pound championship match Saturday. That was one second longer than it took him to pin Braschler in the championship match at the individual district tournament. So far in the individual tournament Foster has wrestled six matches. He has six pins. The 1:34 it took him to pin Braschler Saturday was the longest its taken him to pin any of his opponents. Foster stared the day by pinning Reeths Puffer’s Stephen Hanson in 47 seconds, then he stuck Zeeland East’s Paul Baker 20 seconds into their semifinal match. It took his teammates more work Saturday to get to the Palace. Poland was the only other one to win his first round match. He pinned Fruitport’s Cameron Butler in 3:20, but then was downed 7-4 in the championship semifinals by Hamilton’s Collin Welcher. Poland won his blood round (consolation semifinal) match with Kenowa Hills’ Devin Bisard 11-0 to secure his spot at the Palace, then fell to Lowell’s Derek Krajewski 6-4 in the match for third place. Iveson, Dykstra and Cross all had to work their way all the way through the consolation bracket after falling in the opening round of the regional tournament. Iveson bested Allegan’s Ryan Pinnell 9-7 in his blood round match, then earned the third-place finish by besting Hamilton’s Harley Compagner 6-2. Dykstra also had a two-point win in the blood round, topping Rogers’ Jack Rozema 5-3. In the match for third at 171 pounds, Dykstra pinned Hamilton’s Cameron Stoel in 1:49. Cross defeated Lowell’s Jake Stehley 8-1 in the blood round, then fell 9-7 to Coopersville’s Jordan Sullivan in the match for third. It was the second two-point win of the day for Sullivan over Cross. Sullivan also beat Cross 10-8 in their opening round match. TK’s Oscar Cardosa eliminated teammate Cole Gahan from the 152-pound bracket in the first round of consolation, but then fell in his blood round match, as did teammates Ryan Flynn at 119 pounds and Nick Flynn at 125. Hastings’ other regional qualifier, Zach Wilcox, also fell in the blood round at 112 pounds. Call for Hastings Banner classified ads 269-945-9554 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 23, 2012 — Page 17 Saxons even their record at 9-9 with win over Wayland Hastings varsity boys’ basketball team will play its final home game of the regular season Friday, against Forest Hills Eastern in the O-K Gold Conference finale for both teams. The Saxons are currently 9-9 overall and 4-9 in the league after scoring a 49-43 win over visiting Wayland Tuesday night. Hastings pulled ahead of the Wildcats in Hastings girls turn to trap to top the Bengals a second time the second quarter, outscoring them 19-11 to lead 30-20 at the break. The Saxons then led throughout the second half. Maxwell Clark led Hastings with 18 points. He knocked down four threes and was 4-of-6 at the free throw line. The Saxons also got 11 points from Eric Hart and seven from Danny Buehler. Hart and Michael Eastman had six Hastings’ Danny Buehler collides with Ottawa Hills’ Diquan Brown as he tries to get a shot up during the second half Friday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) The Saxons’ Keith Garber tries to drive past Ottawa Hills’ Antoine Wilson Friday night. (Photo by Perry Hardin) rebounds each for the Saxons. Wayland got 12 points from Mason Kiry and six from Jack Phillips Ottawa Hills clinched the outright O-K Gold Conference championship with its win over the Saxons in Hastings Friday. Hastings did a good job of playing at its pace, slowing down the Bengal attack. Ottawa Hills led 17-12 at the half, and 27-20 heading into the fourth quarter. Shakur Sanders led Ottawa Hills with 17 points, while Antione Wilson chipped in ten. Keith Garber led the Saxons with 13 points, while Clark, Luke Heide, Buehler and Ian Beck finished with five each. The Saxons will close the regular season on the road Tuesday at Covenant Christian. All Scots involved in win at TK by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The biggest strides made by the Caledonia varsity girls’ basketball team this season haven’t all been about X’s and O’s. Fighting Scot head coach Joe Harvey said he feels like his team is more of a “team” now than it has been at any point in the season. “I thought everybody contributed and did nice things,” he said after his girls’ scored a 67-36 win at Thornapple Kellogg High School Friday. “I just love it when our bench players are on the floor and our starters are cheering them on when they’re playing well and they’re making plays. “That says a lot of good things about where we’re at right now, because I’m not sure we did that in the first dozen games. I think we’re doing it well right now.” In the final four minutes bench players scored all the Fighting Scots’ points, Abby Andrusiak, Nikki Kwekel and Leigha Muller adding to their team’s lead over the host Trojans. The Caledonia reserves got their wellearned playing time thanks in part to a wellplayed fourth quarter by the Scots’ regular stars. The Scots pushed a 43-28 lead at the start of the fourth quarter to 59-32 with a 164 run over the first four minutes of the final period. “In the first half we missed some puppies. I thought we were rebounding the ball, we just had to finish. We could have had a much Hastings’ Kelsi Harden drives towards the basket during Friday night’s O-K Gold Conference contest with Ottawa Hills. (Photo by Perry Hardin) The Saxons started to find themselves a bit in the second half against Ottawa Hills Friday. Hastings varsity girls’ basketball team scored its second win of the second, and second win over the Bengals, topping their guests 44-37 in O-K Gold Conference action. The Saxons had to rally in the second half after what head coach Steve Laubaugh called a “dismal” first half. The Bengals outscored the Saxons 17-11 in the first two quarters. “Our first half was another frustrating example of our season. Slow ball movement, tentative decision making, and poor reaction to our defensive game plan,” Laubaugh said. “It was just a lack of passion for playing bas- The Saxons’ Grace Meade flips up a shot in front of Ottawa Hills’ Cacharael Hodges during the second half Friday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) ketball. But the second half was like a different team.” The Saxons exploded for 33 points in the second half, setting a season high for points in a half and in a game. The team also had a season high field goal percentage of 40, and set a season high with 11 assists. “In the second half we decided to dictate tempo and play with some abandon,” Laubaugh said. “They really got after it defensively. We switched to more of a trapping defense, and while we gave up a few scores, it seemed to swing the momentum for us. We moved the ball and attacked better, and we still got the shots in the places we wanted. Laubaugh was very proud of his team’s 11 assists on 14 field goals. Saxon guards Taylor Carter and Grace Meade pushed the ball for Hastings, while looking for teammates, and that led to girls running the floor better than they had all season long. “This attitude towards playing will pay dividends down the road,” Laubaugh said. Meade and Rachel Quillen had ten points each for the Saxons, while Dani Meredith and Carter added eight each. Carter also had a team-high four assists. Meredith had seven rebounds and Quillen had five. The Saxons are now 2-17 overall and 2-11 in the league. They didn’t get a win Tuesday, falling 6435 at Wayland, but the Saxons did carry some momentum from Friday night’s contest. “Wayland is one of the top teams in the area, but we gave them a battle for a while,” Laubaugh said. “Our goal was to take the attitude that we finished with on Friday versus Ottawa Hills and to keep it moving forward. In that sense, we were successful because we played hard and we continued to attack.” The 35 points was one of the team’s best outputs of the season against a top O-K Gold Conference foe. Carter led the Saxons with 11 points and Meredith had eight. Wayland led just 11-8 after one quarter, but stretched its lead to 27-15 by the half. Hastings closes out its regular season at home Friday against Forest Hills Eastern. The Saxons then open play in the Class B District Tournament at Thornapple Kellogg High School Monday, taking on Portland. The winner of that game will face Lakewood in the district semifinals Wednesday. Caledonia’s McKayla Gehrls pulls a rebound away from Thornapple Kellogg’s Shelby Tedrow during the first half Friday night. (Photo by Brett Bremer) but she got there in a little different manner than her teammate. “We do a lot of high ball screening for her, and for all of our guards, but when she turns that corner and she goes to the basket she can not only finish with contact, but I mean she draws in defenders and she forces help so it gives our wings open shots. She’s going to be a tough player,” Bays said of Graham. TK also got seven points from Molly Lark in the contest. The Trojans followed up that loss by scoring their second win of the season over Ottawa Hills in Middleville Tuesday, 62-43. TK outscored the Bengals 36-14 in the middle two quarters to take control of the game. Ten different Trojans scored in the win, led by Graham who finished with 21 points. Crystal Smith returned to the line-up andd added 12 points for TK, and Erin Ellinger added 11 points. Ellinger also had five steals and 17 rebounds. The Bengals got 12 points from Brianna Gordon and ten points from Cachareal Hodges. The Trojans, who are now 5-14 overall this season and 4-9 in the O-K Gold, will host South Christian to close out the regular season Friday. SAXON WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE Complete online schedule at: www.hassk12.org THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23 4:15 PM 4:30 PM 4:30 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM Boys Boys Girls Boys Girls MS Fresh. Fresh. JV JV Wrestling Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Lowell MS Forest Hills Eastern HS Forest Hills Eastern HS Forest Hills Eastern HS Forest Hills Eastern HS TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 28 H H A H A H H H H H 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 5:30 PM 5:30 PM Boys Varsity Ice Hockey 2/27-3/2 Regionals @ Kalamazoo Girls 8th A Basketball Kraft Meadow Girls 7th A Basketball Kraft Meadow Girls 7th B Basketball Kraft Meadow Girls 8th B Basketball Kraft Meadow Basketball Wrestling Basketball Basketball Covenant Christian HS Quad Covenant Christian HS Covenant Christian HS A H A A 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 5:30 PM 5:30 PM Girls Girls Girls Girls 7th B 8th B 8th A 7th A Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Duncan Lake Middle Duncan Lake Middle Duncan Lake Middle Duncan Lake Middle A H H A Times and dates subject to change Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, P.C. “Quality Care with Compassion” A H A MONDAY, FEBRUARY 27 TBA Fresh. MS JV Varsity Thanks to This Week’s Sponsor: SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25 TBA Boys MS Wrestling BC Lakeview 1:00 PM Boys Varsity Swimming Conference Tourn. – Finals 7:00 PM Boys Varsity Ice Hockey GR Christian Boys Boys Boys Boys WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 29 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24 12:30 PM Boys Varsity Swimming Conference Tourn. – Diving Preliminaries 4:00 PM Boys Varsity Swimming Conference Tourn. – Swimming Preliminaries 6:00 PM Girls Varsity Basketball Forest Hills Eastern HS 7:30 PM Boys Varsity Basketball Forest Hills Eastern HS 7:30 PM Boys Varsity Ice Hockey Jenison High School Senior Night 4:00 PM 4:15 PM 5:30 PM 7:00 PM H A H H A 840 Cook Rd. Hastings, MI 49058 Phone: 269-945-9520 Toll Free: 800-596-1005 Contact us on the web @ www.hoc-mi.com 77565973 Thornapple Kellogg guard Kelli Graham gets by Caledonia’s Hanna Lahiff to get into the lane during Friday night’s O-K Gold Conference contest in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) bigger lead in the first half if we’d just finished some of those plays, but we did a better job of that in the second half,” coach Harvey said. “I also thought we did a better job of playing in transition in the second half, which is going to lend itself to us having success.” Emily DeVries had a big night for the Scots, finishing with 16 points and seven rebounds off the bench. Caledonia also got 12 points from Reyni Harvey, and 11 points and eight assists from Lexi Miller. The Scots had 11 assists as a team. “When we share the basketball, we do some really good things. I was happy with what we came in here and did,” coach Harvey said. Asia Slagter added nine points for Caledonia and McKayla Gehrls had eight. The Trojan attack wasn’t quite as balanced as the Scots’. Shelby Tedrow and Kelli Graham had 12 points each to lead TK. TK head coach Jesse Bays was pleased to see them lead the way. “She played tough down low,” he said of Tedrow. “How I judge toughness, if you’re forcing them to foul you down low that means you’re playing tough. I was happy to see her get back to scoring a little bit.” Tedrow was 6-of-8 at the free throw line. Graham was also 6-of-8 at the free throw line, HASTINGS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS Contact Nancy 945-2742 or hastingsathleticboosters@gmail.com to sponsor the schedule �Page 18 — Thursday, February 23, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Delton senior survives the blood round this time Pair of Vikes also qualify for D3 State Finals by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Tyler Dempsey was one victory shy of joining four of his teammates at the Individual State Finals in 2011 when he was pinned by Onsted’s Jake Martin 3 minutes and 33 seconds into their blood round (consolation semifinal) match at Williamston High School. That moment dominated Dempsey’s thoughts through the remainder of his junior year and through his senior year until Saturday. Dempsey won an 11-6 decision over West Catholic’s Mitch Norder in their blood round match at the Division 3 Individual Regional Tournament in Otsego, earning him a spot in the State Finals Match 1-3 at the Palace of Auburn Hills. He pointed upward with each hand as the final second ticked off the clock, and after the traditional handshakes with his opponents, jumped into the arms of Delton Kellogg varsity wrestling coach Dan Phillips. “Last year I lost in the blood round at regionals,” said Dempsey. “It just eats at you. That’s all you think about the next year. If you don’t make it through regionals, that’s all you think about at practice every day. At our school we have pictures of the Palace in our wrestling room and I look at that thing every day. Finally I made it. It’s such a relief. All the stress is taken off and everything.” Dempsey added a 12-8 win over Whitehall’s Josh Couturier in the consolation finals to finish third in the 130-pound weight Lakewood’s Jordan Bennett (left) works to control Newaygo’s Larry Bulson during the first period of their 135-pound championship match at Saturday’s Division 3 Individual Regional Tournament in Otsego. (Photo by Brett Bremer) class. He’ll be joined at the individual state finals by a pair of Lakewood wrestlers, 285pound senior Garrett Hyatt who finished third and 135-pound freshman Jordan Bennett who won his weight class. Dempsey was 3-1 on the day, winning his Lakewood’s Garrett Hyatt (top) holds down Buchanan’s Jimmy DeVlaminck during the first period of their 285-pound consolation semifinal at Otsego High School Saturday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Delton Kellogg senior Tyler Dempsey (top) moves Whitehall senior Josh Couturier around the mat during their match for third place in the 130-pound weight class at Saturday’s Division 3 Individual Regional in Otsego. (Photo by Brett Bremer) opening round match but then falling 11-1 to Fremont’s Theron Blake in the championship quarterfinals. Otsego’s Alberto Lopez won the weight class, topping Blake 6-5 in the championship match. Dempsey was the lone Delton Kellogg wrestler who qualified for the individual regional, and he said it was a bit strange having it just be him and his three coaches at the tournament. He did get lots of support from his Kalamazoo Valley Association leaguemates from Pennfield and Parchment though. Dempsey spent time Tuesday and Thursday practicing with wrestlers from Pennfield who were still alive in the state tournament – and also got help from a handful of ex-Delton wrestlers who came back to help him train. “My family is going to take me out to dinner,” said Dempsey. “I’m excited. I’m just really happy. A lot of kids work their whole lives to get here. I started in 7th grade. It just goes to show you with hard work if you have a goal you can go and get it. That’s exactly how it happens.” Few wrestlers have worked harder than Bennett. The Viking freshman improved to 35-0 on the season by winning the 135-pound weight class. He scored a pin and a technical fall in his first two matches, before besting Newaygo’s Larry Bulson 9-2 in the championship match. “He’s got 900 matches in him right now through his career,” Lakewood head coach Bob Veitch. “He’s been able to go with the best kids in the state of Michigan to tournaments and stuff so that enhances the mental part of it, because when you wrestle those kids whether you are good or not you start believing you’re good. When you start believing you’re good then things start happening. New Car Shopping? 2.99% Nicholas Daily in his championship semifinal match at 285 pounds, but had no trouble winning his two consolation round matches. He scored a 14-3 win over Buchanan’s Jimmy DeVlaminck in the blood round, then pinned West Catholic’s Tony Brechting 1:51 into the match for third place. Jack Tromp, a 189-pound junior, was the only other Viking to reach the blood round. He was pinned there though by Whitehall’s Logan Potter. Viking senior Nick Briggs at 152 pounds and junior Lars Pyrzinski at 215 were both 0-2. Pyrzsinski struggled in part because of a sore shoulder, which was injured during the Vikings’ Division 3 Team Regional Semifinal Wednesday. “A lot of it comes back to the room,” Veitch said. “When you don’t stay with technique stuff and then you come out here and have to work 100 percent perfect technique, it don’t come that easy so. Jack and Lars understand and they both agree that technique-wise they were successful and satisfied. They understand they need to put a little extra time in this next year going from now until wrestling if they want to be at the state (finals) next year. HHS dance team wraps up season Friday INTEREST 3.363% APR* APR* *Annual percentage rate. Car loan is subject to credit review and approval. Rates are subject to change. A Hastings City Bank checking account with direct deposit and automatic loan payment is required to obtain this rate. Maximum term is 66 months for new (untitled) vehicles only. Contact any Hastings City Bank lender for other rates available. Processing fee is $200. Example: a $20,000 loan at 3.363% APR would have 66 monthly payments of $329.02. 1-888-422-2280 Yeah, he’s impressive.” Bennett knows he’s good, but it’s his desire to learn that makes him so impressive. He also doesn’t mind trying to teach his teammates a thing or two. Austin Kietzman, the Vikings’ freshman 125-pounder, actually had more wins on the year than Bennett coming into the regional tournament. His season ended with a 33-10 record though with a 0-2 day Saturday. “He wants to know the angles, where the pressure is and why it works,” Veitch said of Bennett. “He showed Kietzman a move the other day and I told Kietzman, I said ‘Kietz that will maybe happen to you once in your entire career where a guy actually does that. Don’t get me wrong Jordan, you’re 100-percent correct on that, but I haven’t seen anybody hit that in 20 years.’ But he’s right. Jordan hit it today. When you hook the ankle, you grab his foot and pivot right back and you dump him right to his back. Well, nobody does that and he did it twice today to kids. That’s because he was taught it, a college coach showed him and it sunk in.” Hyatt fell 12-3 to Berrien Springs’ 77566071 The 2011-12 Hastings High School Dance Team, Coached by Jenny Johnston, will wrap up their season with their final performances Friday, Feb. 24, during half-time of the girls and the boys varsity basketball games against Forest Hills Eastern. Pictured are (front row, from left) Stacey Baker, Tori Cybulski, Erika Thornton, Katy Garber, Olivia Rose, Hannah Tebo, (middle row) Amanda Curtiss, Kim Smith, Bri Sheldon, Kara Cuncannan, Karlee Vaughan, Madi Trumball, Kali Straube, Nicole ArensKetchum, Sam Crittendon, (back) Baylee Crittendon, Vickie Smith, Autumn Demott, Tessa Johnson, Katie Beauchamp, Chelsey Culp, Audrey Bush and Mikayla Calvert. (Missing are Kourtney Dobbin and Jessi O’Keefe) Hastings cheer in top four at districts for the first time The Saxons had to not only worry about passing Stevensville-Lakeshore, they had to worry about holding off Holland Christian and Mattawan too. They did it. Hastings’ varsity competitive cheer team will take part in Saturday’s Division 2 Regional Tournament at Grand Rapids Christian High School after a fourth-place finish at Saturday’s District Tournament at Portage Northern High School. They’ll be joined in Grand Rapids by the other top four teams from Saturday, district champion Portage Northern, and Thornapple Kellogg and St. Joseph. The Saxons scored a 210.0 in round one and a 208.8392 in round two. That put the Saxons in fifth place behind the other three regional qualifying teams and StevensvilleLakeshore. The Lancers were about five and a half points ahead of the Saxons at that point, having scored a 209.1 in round one and a 215.2800 in round two. Hastings was also less than three points ahead of Holland Christian and Mattawan heading into round three. The Lancers scored just a 293.0 in round three through, allowing the Saxons to jump in front of them with a round three score of 303.9. Holland Christian did outscore the Saxons in round three, with a 304.8, but the Maroons finished just over nine tenths of a point behind the Saxons in fifth place. This is the Saxons first regional qualifying performance since the MHSAA switched to the districts/regionals/finals format for competitive cheer in 2009. Portage Northern built a big lead in the first two rounds then held on to win with a final score of 763.7436. Thornapple Kellogg was second with a 744.3560, followed by St. Joseph 728.1752, Hastings 722.7392, Holland Christian 721.8202, Mattawan 718.3980, Lakeshore 717.3800, Gull Lake 699.6420, Wayland 695.0298, Plainwell 693.9600, Vicksburg 665.2416, Sturgis 609.9320, Hamilton 590.7280 and Harper Creek 566.7156. Thornapple Kellogg was in second place all day, scoring a 218.4 in round one, a 212.2560 in round two and a 313.7 in round three. That was by far the best round three score of the day. Portage Northern had the second best score in round three, a 306.7. The Huskies did have the top score in each of the first two rounds, a 226.1 in round one and a 230.9436 in round two. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-03-01.pdf b9b7e90505d7d0ac0b491a20642d3d6c PDF Text Text Michigan Ave. bridge work begins Monday Demand accountability from your government Trojan cheer team earns spot in Finals See Story on Page 2 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 20 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 9 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, March 1, 2012 Hastings announces second-round superintendent candidates NEWS Falcon withdraws BRIEFS Bluegrass band featured in showcase tonight The Rangers, a bluegrass and country music band from Grand Rapids, will be featured in concert beginning at 6:45 p.m., Thursday, March 1, during the Community Music Showcase at Thomas Jefferson Hall, 328 S. Jefferson St., Hastings. The foursome has played in Barry County many times and at many venues, including Hastings Summerfest and Arby’s Musicians’ Thursdays. Members of the group are Joe, Dan and Jim Hooker and Mark Smith. There is no admission for the Community Music Showcase; however, a freewill offering will be accepted. Showcases are held on the first and third Thursday of each month. Historical society to meet Tuesday The Barry County Historical Society will meet Tuesday, March 6, at 7 p.m. at the Barry County Commission on Aging. This month’s meeting will have a show-andtell format. Members and guests are encouraged to bring old photos, post cards, portable antiques or other items with a story to tell. A scanner and computer will be available. The public is invited to the meeting at 320 W. Woodlawn Ave., Hastings. For more information, call 269-948-9810. ‘Money Smart’ series being offered at Delton church All interested people are being invited to attend a series of three free programs, entitled “Money Smart,” at Faith United Methodist Church in Delton. Preregistration is required, and the deadline to register is Thursday, March 8. A light dinner and child care will be provided without charge. The sessions will be from 5:30 to 8 p.m. on three consecutive Thursdays: March 15, 22 and 29. Speaker for the series will be Mona J. Ellard, a retired educator for Eaton County Michigan State University Extension. She is the daughter of Charles and Donna Monica of Delton. During the Money Smart series, Ellard will help participants learn, techniques for managing cash flow, how to use credit as an advantage, information about the new credit laws of 2010 and how they affect an individual’s use of money, tips to get debt-free with proven spending and saving techniques and many more money-saving ideas, including how to save money at the grocery store. To register for the series, call the church 269-623-5400 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays. The church is located at the corner of M-43 Highway (Grove Street) and Bush Street. by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Monday, Hastings Area Schools Interim Superintendent Michelle Falcon announced that she has withdrawn her application for the superintendent’s post. “This was a difficult conclusion to come to; however, for my family it is the best one,” she wrote in an email to district administrators, staff and board members. “I believe in all of you and in this district. I plan to continue the wonderful initiatives and plans we have made together. Again, I have the utmost respect for each and every one of you. Thank you so much for understanding.” In an interview Tuesday morning, Falcon said if asked, she would be happy to stay on as assistant superintendent of Hastings Area Schools, the position she held for one year before being named as the interim superintendent in August 2011, following the termination of the district’s contract with previous superintendent Rich Satterlee. Board President Kevin Beck said in an interview Tuesday afternoon that the board is looking to have both a superintendent and an assistant superintendent when the 2012-13 school year starts. “I have been very, very impressed with what she has accomplished in a very difficult situation, and I am thankful she was willing to step up,” he said of Falcon. “She has done a fantastic job. She has accomplished a lot in a short while; I can’t say enough about her.” Monday evening, during its regular February meeting, the Hastings Board of Education unanimously approved a motion to Timothy Allard conduct site visits and second interviews for three candidates: Timothy Allard, assistant superintendent and elementary school principal for Galien Public Schools; Mona Shores Public schools Assistant Superintendent Todd Geerlings, and Forest Hills Central High School Terry Urquhart. Sean McNatt, superintendent of Breckenridge Community Schools, is not being considered for a second interview at this time. See CANDIDATES, page 7 Nearly 20 percent of county voters turn out for primary A school millage proposal and the excitement of a presidential primary brought more than 8,000 Barry County voters to the polls Tuesday. Countywide, voters opted for Rich Santorum in the Republican race for president by a 46 percent to 34 percent margin over front runner Mitt Romney. In the Delton Kellogg School District, an 18-mill non-homestead renewal request was approved by 69 percent of the 1,769 voters who cast ballots. “It’s a yearly renewal, and we are happy to have it passed and be over,” said Delton Kellogg Superintendent Paul Blacken. “The millage is important to us because it generates about $2.4 million for this year’s budget. “We’re happy and now we can concentrate on what the state is going to do as we get ready for our budget process this spring.” In the presidential primary vote, Santorum was the favorite of 3,479 Barry County voters. Romney finished second with 2,589 votes followed by Ron Paul, 784 votes, and Newt Gingrich with 569. Votes were also cast for Michele Bachmann, Herman Cain, Jon Huntsman, Gary Johnson, Fred Karger, Rick Perry, Buddy Roemer. Uncommitted votes totaled 141 and seven write-in votes were recorded. On the Democratic side, President Barack Obama was the only candidate on the ballot. He received 579 Barry County votes, representing 86 percent of those cast. There were 141 uncommitted and two write-in votes cast on the Democratic side. The 19.47 percent voter turnout rate was as expected and comparable to past primary votes, according to Barry County Clerk Pam Jarvis. Todd Geerlings Hastings mourns beloved teacher When Hastings Area Schools hired Carrie Roe more than 17 years ago, no one could have anticipated the impact one teacher could have on the district. Being an English teacher, Roe was a woman whose career was based on words. However, many in the Hastings community — especially staff, students and alumni of Hastings High School — are at a loss for words regarding the recent death of a teacher who was an inspiration to the community. Social studies teacher Judy Way said she could tell during a 1994 interview with the district that Roe was a very intelligent, strong young woman who would be a great asset to not only the department but to the district as a whole. “For every day after that initial interview, Carrie did not disappoint,” Way said. “She was dedicated to her family, faith, friends and the Saxons.” It didn’t take long for people in Hastings to notice her dependability, loyalty and passion for the profession of teaching. According to Don Phillips, retired English teacher and former Hastings Education Association president, Roe was always thorough in her preparation and follow-through with students, especially when checking for understanding. This genuine passion for learning led one former student, Brooke Sheldon, to sign up for two semesters worth of independent study in literature with Roe as her teacher. Carrie Roe “I never really understood my power as a human being before that first course, and I wanted to learn all I could from her, so I asked her to take a second one,” Sheldon said. “I read so many important works … and took away so many lessons from our dis- See TEACHER, page 14 Sewer authority abruptly changes course St. Patrick’s parade moved to March 16 The South Jefferson Street St. Patrick’s parade will step off at 4 p.m. Friday, March 16. Everyone is invited to watch or participate. The purpose of the parade, now in its eighth year, is to have fun and build community spirit. The parade is sponsored by the Merry Merchants of South Jefferson Street, who have purchased hats, beads, wristbands, stickers and other items for distribution over that holiday weekend. Many nearby restaurants are planning Irish menus Friday and Saturday nights, and the American Legion restaurant on South M-37 will serve traditional St. Patrick’s Day food and drink all weekend. For more information, call WBCH, 269945-3414. Terry Urquhart ‘Anything Goes’ opens tonight at Central Auditorium The cast of the Hastings High School production performs a number from the classic musical “Anything Goes. ” The show opens tonight, Thursday, March 1, at 7 p.m. in Central Auditorium, with additional shows at 7 p.m. Friday, March 2, and Saturday, March 3, and closing with a 3 p.m. performance Sunday, March 4. Tickets for “Anything Goes” are available at Bosley Pharmacy, King’s Appliances, Hastings Family Fare, and all Hastings Area Schools. Prices are $10 for adults and $8 for students and senior citizens. by Doug VanderLaan Editor Not so fast. After having approved a commitment last month by a controversial 3-2 vote to assist Barry Township in meeting its portion of an April 1 bond payment deadline, the Southwest Barry County Sewer and Water Authority reversed its course Monday by the same vote count — and riled the long-raging waters of discontent even more. “This entire concept was ill-conceived and sets a very bad precedent,” said David Messelink, just recently appointed by Hope Township to be its representative on the SBCSWA board. “I’m also very concerned that this [action] tells folks who hook up to the system that they don’t have to worry about costs because the Sewer Authority will be there to bail them out.” See SEWER, page 8 �Page 2 — Thursday, March 1, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Road closures, bridge work to begin Monday Pleasantview Elementary School has stood vacant since its doors were closed at the end of the 2007-08 school year. The Hastings Board of Education voted Monday to sell the building and the 10 acres on which it sits, for $10,000. Sold! For $10,000 Board of education approves sale of Pleasantview Elementary by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer “A bird in the hand is worth more than a potential two down the road,” said Hastings Board of Education Treasurer Rob Longstreet as the board discussed a motion to accept a $10,000 bid on Pleasantview Elementary School and its 10-acre parcel from Robert Goldsworthy. “I think if it was one-sided and we could wait until Friday for a higher bid, I would be all for it. But if we wait until Friday, the current bid could be withdrawn, and then we could have zero on Friday,” he said. “Based on what I’ve heard, the possibility of receiving a substantially higher bid is quite low.” “I don’t think waiting until Friday is a bad option,” said Board President Kevin Beck. “You’re right; it is a risk. I’d hate to have him unhappy and have him withdraw the bid. Then we’d really look like fools up here [at the board table].” However, while Beck and Trustee Gene Haas were the dissenters when the motion to sell the school passed by a 5-2 vote, he said that while the district had received many calls from people expressing interest in bidding on the property. Only Goldsworthy actually filed an official bid at the district’s administration office. Todd Thunder, who owns a farm a few miles from the former school, was one of those who had expressed an interest in bidding on the property. He said he was interested in the property for livestock or possibly greenhouses and thought he could salvage materials from the building if he choose not to use it for storage or other agricultural purposes. In an interview Tuesday morning, Thunder said he had contacted the district and talked to Interim Superintendent Michelle Falcon. “I said was willing to pay $22,500 for it,” he said Tuesday. However, Thunder said he had not filed an This map shows the preferred detour by motorists after replacement of the Michigan Avenue bridge in Hastings begins Monday. Old folding chairs are stacked at the end of the hall at Pleasantview Elementary. official bid. Falcon said that after the story about the potential sale of Pleasantview School was published in the Feb. 23 edition of the Hastings Banner, the district received several additional offers for the property, and she was therefore recommending the district wait before accepting the $10,000 bid from Goldsworthy. Mark Hewitt, an associate broker with Miller Real Estate, was at the meeting Monday night. He provided the board with a multiple-offer procedure form it could use if the board was interested in seeking other bids. He provided information about the sale prices of four comparable parcels of vacant land in southeast Barry County. He said most have sold for around $2,000 to $2,500 per acre. However, the existing school building actually has a negative impact on the mar- Students to represent Hastings in state FFA contests The Hastings FFA Chapter participated in regional leadership contests Feb. 16 at Maple Valley High School, where individuals and teams from Hastings qualified to compete at the state level. From Hastings Middle School, Becky Maurer took first place in the creed speaking contest, receiving a gold award and advancing to state competition. Austin Haywood took third place in the junior high public speaking contest, earning a gold award. He is an alternate to state. Representing Hastings High School in the prepared public speaking competition was Ethan Haywood, who brought home a first place gold award and will advance to the state level. The Hastings High School Blue team took second place in parliamentary procedure, with a gold award. Members are Allie Porter, Andy Slocum, Katie Endsley, Katy Kesler, Kraig Morris, Mitchell Philley and Hannah Tebo, and they advance to state competition. Competing in the parliamentary procedure contest, the Hastings High School Gold team took third place and a gold award and is an alternate team for state competition with members Cassey Glumm, Steven Endsley, Jake Norris, Cindy Tebo, Alyssa Larsen, Russell Ellinger and Ashley Stanton. The greenhand conduct of meetings team, which consisted of Zach Pennington, James Senard, Atricia Johnson, Carter Bennett, Sarah Sixberry, Derika Koch, Kaitlyn Bancroft and Tillery Larsen, took third place with a gold award and are alternates to state competition. Also competing at regionals was the junior high conduct of meetings blue team with a fourth place, gold award, earned by members Sarah Porter, Ashley Glumm, Kylie Pickard, Mikayla Warner, Megan Slagel, Kristen Gillespie and Caleb Keech. In the job interview contest among high school students, Amber Pickard placed fourth with a silver award. State FFA Leadership Contests will be at Michigan State University March 7 to 9, at the 84th Michigan State FFA Convention. Schools in attendance at the Region 1 competition were Allegan, Cassopolis, Country Side, Hopkins, Van Buren Tech Center, Calhoun Area Tech Center, Hastings, Maple Valley, Charlotte, Olivet, Branch Area Career Center, Bronson, Centerville, Homer, Marshall and Vicksburg. ketability of the property. “Of course, you have to get rid of the building to have vacant land to sell,” he said. “I’d assume you’d have $30,000 to $40,000 [to demolish and remove the building]. I drove by there today. I would assume that is on the low side if you were to tear down the building ... So, you are going to spend $30,000 to $40,000 to get rid of a building then you can turn around and sell the land for $20,000 to $25,000, provided it’s a building site.” “... It’s a white elephant at best,” said Hewitt who said he went to the Barry-Eaton District Health Department and looked up records on the Lacey Road property and verified that it had failed a time-of-sale-transfer inspection in May 2011. “There was sewage that was being disposed at the ground surface level,” he said. “You can’t just go in there, buy the property and set up shop. The seller is responsible to get it to a minimum health department standard, which the soils down there are marginal, at best. You would have to do some sort of engineered system, that would be my guess ... for a residence you’re looking at $15,000 to $20,000 ... for the existing building, I don’t know...” Hewitt said ultimately, the value of a piece of property is determined by what people are willing to pay for it. “You’ve opened it for bids twice, and you got one bid,” he said. “That might be your value. It might not be what you want; but, believe me, there aren’t any values at what we want right now.” Trustee Dan Patton, who has been working with Falcon on the sale of the property, said that from Jan. 12 to Feb. 24, the district has spent over $7,119 on electric, gas and other routine costs. “This is not including maintenance. This is not including maintenance time. It’s not including the abatement on the asbestos that was the result of the theft [of copper pipes for the boiler in January]. It doesn’t cover repairs from the break-in and the theft,” he said. Patton said if he thought waiting five more days would net the district and additional $10,000, he would wait. “But, at the current rate, we are having expenditures against that building, we’re losing 10 grand in that building every 30 to 45 days,” he said. “We won’t make up, in a bid next month, $7,000. It’s just not a reality...” 06774635 by Julie Makarewicz Staff Writer Road construction projects are the first sure sign that spring can’t be far. Work is scheduled to begin March 5 on the Michigan Avenue bridge replacement project and continue through mid-August. Jeff Mansfield, Hastings City manager, said Michigan Avenue will likely be closed to traffic on the north and south sides of the bridge over the Thornapple River beginning March 5. The first part of the project by Davis Construction will be to install a temporary sanitary sewer crossing over the river to replace the main that currently runs below the bridge. The company also will begin preparing for demolition of the bridge, which is expected to start the week of March 12. Motorists are encouraged to use Woodlawn Avenue and Apple Street as the east-west detour routes so that access to North Broadway occurs at signalized intersections. In addition, reconstruction of the Broadway Bridge by the Michigan Department of Transportation is scheduled to being in April, so gaining access to Broadway at signalized locations will be even more important to helping reduce accidents, he added. Mansfield said he anticipates businesses in the bridge project area will remain open throughout construction. Full access to the businesses will be provided to the greatest extent possible, he said. City officials said they have contacted major employers in the area and along the detour routes to make sure they area aware of the upcoming work and the detour routes that will be needed. John Hart, community development director, told council members the Downtown Development Authority will fund proactive advertising on the radio and in newspapers to remind people the businesses will be open and accessible even during the construction period. Deadline is March 15 for women’s club scholarships Two scholarships that have traditionally helped make a difference for female students seeking to continue their education are again being offered by the GFWC-Hastings Women’s Club. The Hastings High School General Scholarship is awarded to a graduating female student who is in financial need and who is pursuing further education at an accredited vocation or technical school, community college or university. The non-traditional nursing school scholarship is awarded to a female Barry County resident who is in financial need and who has already been accepted into a nursing school program at an accredited community college, private college or university. Applicants must complete the Barry Community Foundation’s online scholarship application using listed criteria for both the foundation and the Hastings Women’s Club. The online applications are available at www.barrycf.org by accessing ‘scholarship,’ followed by ‘requirements,’ and then ‘online application.’ Completed applications must be submitted online no later than March 15. “The Hastings Women’s Club is pleased that our scholarships can help make a difference for women in our community who wish to continue their education,” says Scholarship Chair Alvina Griswold, “both right after high school graduation and for women who, after time, are continuing with higher education.” The scholarship committee of the GFWCHastings Women’s Club will select the recipients of each scholarship. The general scholarship recipient will be announced May 4 at the Hastings High School Senior Girls Tea. The women’s club will also take part in the announcement made during the Hastings High School awards assembly. The non-traditional nursing school scholarship recipient will be notified by both the Barry Community Foundation and the scholarship committee following the selection. Questions regarding the online application process can be directed to Erin Welker or Laurie Black at the Barry Community Foundation online at scholarship@barrycf.org or by calling 269945-0526. The GFWC-Hastings Women’s Club is part of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs and GFWC-Michigan. GFWC is an international women’s organization dedicated to community improvement by enhancing the lives of others through volunteer service. Hastings Women’s Club information is available through Membership Chair Marlene Lawrence at 269-945-9214. Keep your friends and relatives INFORMED! Send them The BANNER To subscribe, call us at... 269-945-9554 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 1, 2012 — Page 3 Snow brings brief population spike A march of the February snowmen graces the village of Freeport, where in one yard a family of eight snow people takes up temporary residence. (Photo courtesy of Glen Guernsey) Hastings High School juniors took advantage of a snow day combined with great packing snow and built this 15-foot snowman in a yard at Algonquin Lake. Pictured are (from left) Jon French, Chris Feldpausch, David Pierce and eighth grade student Danny Hooten (top). Missing from the photo are Chase Huisman and Chad Reedy. Construction of the top-hatted snowfellow took strength, engineering — and most of the day. Dumbo is the creation of Michael Reid of Nashville. At right: A blanket of white intensifies the red of this barn near Nashville. Large snowflakes began to fall across the region late Thursday, leaving about six inches of heavy snow in its wake. Most area schools were closed Friday. This snowman and his faithful companion are the result of a snow day put to good use by Kaylea Hughes, 11, (left) and Klyne Hughes, 10, of Nashville. Others may have branches . . . we have roots. As the only local bank that calls Hastings home, we add value to the communities we serve by supporting our local non profit organizations with both our time and funding. We are proud to have supported the following in 2011: Algonquin Lake Community Association Allegan County Firefighters American Cancer Society Barry Community Foundation Barry Community Free Clinic Barry County 4-H Barry County Chamber of Commerce Barry County Christian School Barry County Commission on Aging Barry County Community Mental Health Barry County Economic Development Alliance Barry County Fair Barry County March of Dimes Barry County Parks and Recreation Barry County Substance Abuse Barry County United Way Bellevue Lions Club Big Brothers Big Sisters, Barry County Caledonia Area Chamber of Commerce Caledonia Elementary School PTO Caledonia High School Caledonia High School Art Program Caledonia Kiwanis Club Calhoun County 4-H CASA for Kids Chloe's Wings of Hope Delton Kellogg Elementary School Art Program Visibility is down to about one tree Friday morning, after about six inches of snow fell overnight, closing area schools. 1-888-422-2280 Duncan Lake Middle School Art Program Eaton County Fair Food Bank of Southwest Michigan Freeport District Library Green Gables Haven Gun Lake Women's Club Habitat for Humanity Hastings Area Public Schools Hastings Athletic Boosters Hastings Band Boosters Hastings Educational Enrichment Foundation Hastings Exchange Club Hastings High School Art Program Hastings High School Musical Hastings High School Senior Class Party Hastings Kiwanis Club Hastings Lions Club Hastings Rotary Club Kellogg Community College Kent County Youth Fair Kettle Lake Elementary School Lakewood Area Choral Society Lakewood Public Schools Maple Valley Athletic Boosters Maple Valley Little League Maple Valley Memorial Scholarship Fund Maple Valley Schools Michigan College Foundation Middleville Lions Club Middleville Turkey Trot Music Center of Southwest Michigan Nashville Car Club National Wild Turkey Federation Pennock Foundation Pierce Cedar Creek Institute South Jefferson Street Merchants Southern Michigan Street Rod Association St. Rose of Lima School Summerfest 5K Run The Friends of Putnam District Library Thornapple Area Enrichment Foundation Thornapple Area Parks and Recreation Thornapple Arts Council Thornapple Kellogg High School Thornapple Kellogg Senior Class Party Thornapple Players Thornapple Valley Ducks Unlimited TK Stars Dance Team Wayland Area Chamber of Commerce Wayland Downtown Development Authority Wayland Expo Wayland High School Graduation Party Wayland Hockey Boosters Wayland Kiwanis Club Wayland Union Schools Wayland Youth Baseball West Michigan Baseball YMCA of Barry County �Page 4 — Thursday, March 1, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Sideswept Take back your government by demanding accountability With rising temperatures after a late February snowfall, snow and icicles inch slowly off the metal roof of a home near Freeport, curling gently until an avalanche of white thundered to the ground below. We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. We’ll select a photograph for publication each week and post the others to our website for all to enjoy. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Do you know? Bundles and bundles Do you recognize these women or know what they are doing? A box in the background has a shipping address of Orchard Industries, West State Street, Hastings. Orchard Industries, a predecessor to Flexfab, Hastings Fiberglass Products and others, made fishing rods. Do you know why or when this photo was taken, or can you tell us more about it? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information to reconnect the photo with the original clipping. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@j-adgraphics.com, or call 269945-9554. Neva Kenyon of Middleville helped us solve last week’s photo mystery. She said her mother, Bernice Bryans, kept a scrapbook of articles from the Hastings Banner, and Neva sent a copy of this clipping from the June 19, 1952 Banner. The photo of Dr. Wes Logan standing beside a mother with three babies was identified as a set of triplets, born to Alice (Belsito) Jackson. The clipping reads, in part, “The nearly 15 pounds of triplets made their appearance Have you Saturday within 15 minutes of each other. Michele Joanne, 4 pounds, 2 ounces, being born at 1:20; Marcia Jean, 5 pounds, 2 ounces, at 1:25; and Michael Joe, 5 pounds, 3 ounces, at 1:34 p.m. The consternation of the Mediterranean fleet can be imagined when their father, Electrician’s Mate 1st Class Billy Jackson, a Texan, was notified by special radio out of Washington that he was the father of three — they thought perhaps they might have twins. Mrs. Jackson is residing with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Al Belsito, 1030 S. Jefferson, while her husband is at sea.” met? Theater is his passion Hastings resident Terry Dennison has been performing since he was 3 years old and is still (at an undisclosed age) performing and supporting the arts in Barry County. He started performing at church and by the age of 8 danced for the first time on the Central Auditorium stage. Dennison had the late Herb Moyer as a choir teacher for six years at Hastings and was in four operettas. He attended the University of Michigan and was in the 300-person University Choral Union, which performed in the 5,000-seat Hill Auditorium. Dennison performed in “The Messiah” several times and also with the Philadelphia Symphony Orchestra in the spring. He was able to work with many famous singers while in the university choir. After a 30-year world geography teaching career in Niles, he returned to Hastings and now performs with the Thornapple Players and The Revue. Dennison said his classroom was like being on stage. To him, teaching was like acting,and every time the bell rang it was another “take.” Dennison is an expert on the history of show business, movie stars, television and theatrical productions. He is also an avid collector of movie memorabilia and a world traveler. Favorite movie: “Sunset Boulevard” with Gloria Swanson and William Holden. Favorite song: Any Broadway show tunes. I love Broadway shows. I am always interested in songs that I can dance to because I do my own choreography.” Favorite book: As a youngster my favorite books were the Little House on the Prairie series. When I was in fourth grade our teacher said if we behaved, she would read us a chapter a day, and she got through the entire series. We were so good because we wanted to hear the stories. [Another book] would be this one which I helped to write, about Vera-Ellen. The person I would most like to meet: Anybody who knows me, for even a short time, knows that Vera-Ellen has always been my favorite since I was a little boy. If I were president, I would change: Three things. Make mass transportation a priority — fast railroads and monorails everywhere. Make sure everyone has access to good health care coverage just like the rest of the industrial world. Finally, campaign reform. Get rid of all super PACs and limit campaigning to about three months like they do in other places, like England.” Best advice ever received: Probably from my Sunday school Terry Dennison teachers at the Pilgrim Holiness Church. I lot of my friends have told me never lose my youthful enthusiasm. The best thing about Barry County is: I like its uniqueness. We’re the only northern county in southern Michigan. It’s the place where everybody knows your name. With 327 lakes in the county, that’s really unique. We have beautiful vistas when you drive around the county. But, the main thing is the small-town values. We have so many groups who help other people.” Dennison wants to remind everybody that classic films are shown every Thursday evening at the Hastings Public Library. According to the Michigan Department of Transportation, the agency saved $55 million in 2011 and $71 million in recent years through one-time savings efforts realized through efficiencies and innovations to existing programs. The report released Monday by MDOT officials cited a 15 percent staff cut that saved $48.1 million alone. Another $8 million in savings came from reduced staff time as a result of process improvements. The use of electronic and energy-efficient technology saved an additional $4 million per year. Most of the savings came as a result of a reorganization of the department last summer. MDOT says one-time savings also included a bond restructuring of the comprehensive transportation fund for a $41 million savings and the use of Build America bonds instead of traditional bonds, which saved an additional $22 million. This is good news for Michigan taxpayers, but it also indicates that savings are possible at all levels of government if officials adopt a more business-like approach to running government. That includes government in Barry County. At a recent meeting of the Nashville Village Council, for example, the council followed the recommendation of its finance committee and approved wage increases of 5 percent for its clerk, DPW supervisor and police chief. Additional raises of 3 percent went to four other village employees. One resident questioned the soundness of approving the raises especially given that citizens would appear to not be receiving anything in return for the raises given employees. According to that resident, the raises were taken from surplus funds in several village accounts. Citing a sound fund balance to justify the raises, Village President Frank Dunham responded that the fund balance is also in place to finance future projects, such as water and sewer, where the funds are needed for matches of larger grants. If that is the case, then why did the council approve the increases when, throughout the area, local governments are being forced to cut and to reduce operational costs while tax revenues are declining and infrastructure maintenance costs are rising? Was it prudent for Nashville village officials to provide raises for employees, rather than looking for ways to improve services or reduce tax burdens on village taxpayers? The Southwest Barry County Sewer and Water Authority provides yet another local example of questionable financial judgment. Monday, the SWBCSWA approved a 3 percent wage increase for all employees, justifying its action on the fact that, according to Trustee Roger Turner Jr., Barry Township has raised property taxes by 3 percent and SWBCSWA employees went without a pay raise last year. The village of Vermontville and the township of Yankee Springs could speak to the soundness — or lack — of prudent financial management in difficult economic times. In Vermontville, the village announced that it would be cutting public library service in an effort to balance its budget. In Yankee Springs Township, a newly formed facilities committee met to discuss a long-running battle over deficiencies in the township hall. The group cited structural problems with the basement under the office and a lack of security and mold building up on interior walls. There are also problems with the heating and air-conditioning system, with the roof and ventilation system and with a lack of proper insulation. The committee’s Phase 1 expansion could cost residents of that township an estimated $282,000 to renovate the current space. Why were these problems not addressed earlier instead of waiting until a time that the bill has grown exponentially and comes due at a time when township residents are in a much less advantageous position to address them? In Hastings, the local school district hired an independent contractor to help with its budgeting process. The contractor will be paid $135 per hour for an estimated 168 hours of service which could cost the district as much as $22,680. Yet, the district admitted Monday that it has no money. According to School Board President Kevin Beck, the district’s finance director had been pulled in several directions in recent years in preparing the district’s budget, so an expert is needed to implement a system of budgeting that will “serve the district for years to come.” Yet, not one of the board members questioned the current budget director’s ability to do her job. Why does an appar- ent long-standing problem come to the community’s attention now when it will cost $22,000 that the district says it does not have? What makes Nashville any different? Part of the responsibility of sound management is saving for the future. If you want to see real waste in government, here’s a short list of examples from national reporting firms: • According to one report, Washington spent $92 billion on corporate welfare, excluding TARP, versus $71 billion on Homeland Security. Last year, the Congressional Budget Office published a report identifying more than $100 billion in potential spending cuts. • A Government Accounting Office audit found that 95 Pentagon weapons systems suffered from a combined $295 billion in cost overruns. More than $13 billion in Iraq has been classified as wasted or stolen, and another $7.8 billion cannot be accounted for. • Government auditors discovered that 900,000 of the 2.5 million recipients of emergency assistance after Hurricane Katrina struck provided false names, addresses or Social Security numbers or submitted multiple applications. • Nationally, health care fraud is estimated to cost taxpayers more than $60 billion, while the Department of Defense wasted over $100 million on unused flight tickets and never bothered to collect refunds even though the tickets were refundable. • Members of Congress authorized more than $90 million of additional franking privileges for the 2010 election year. These are just a few examples of government waste, yet the country’s national deficit has grown to well over $15 trillion. According to a recent poll, “70 percent of Americans agree that when something is run by government, it is usually wasteful and inefficient.” How is it that so many Americans have lost confidence in their government? You only have to look at the growing deficit to understand what’s happening. Government leaders and much of our national media want taxpayers to get caught up in issues such as health care, immigration and religion, taking their attention off the real issue plaguing our nation and its growth. We need to get our economic house in order — and that means sacrifice at all levels of government, along with many of the programs that so many Americans have come to enjoy. In fact, today more than 44 million citizens are on food stamps, and one out of every four American children are impacted by food stamps. A whopping 59 percent of all Americans receive money from the federal government in one form or another. So, where do we go from here? Citizens must be watchdogs of government at all levels. We’ve become complacent to the point that we’ve allowed amateurs to slip into leadership positions with little or no knowledge of the level of responsibility we’ve entrusted to them. So, in many cases, mistakes were made. We’ve allowed our public officials to operate with little or no oversight and accountability, which leads to wasteful or overspending; spending that drives up the cost of government from the local village council, township or school district to state and federal governments and us the taxpayers being sent the bill. Each of us needs to get involved by understanding the issues, attending meetings and contacting elected or appointed representatives, when necessary. They are doing our business, yet in the end, we will be responsible for all of their mistakes. In 1996, then-presidential candidate Ross Perot wrote: “In the 1960s, our standard of living doubled every generation and a half. Parents who worked on a farm could send a child to college and live to see their grandchildren build successful businesses. At our present low rate of growth, it will take 12 generations for our standard of living to double. The children of a child born this year will be dead before our standard of living doubles again. We have broken the faith we owe to our children. The politicians can’t restore it. Only the people can. Only the people, the owners of this country, can make America strong again.” What Ross Perot said more than 16 years ago today is proof of what can happen when we rely on government alone to determine the road we travel. The problems we face are serious and deserve our utmost attention if we expect to see a brighter outcome any time soon. Fred Jacobs, vice president, J-Ad Graphics Inc. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 1, 2012 — Page 5 Hastings school board looks to avoid deficit spending by end of school year Cyberbullying in schools and society by Michelle Falcon Interim Superintendent Recent legislation requires school districts to analyze and review bullying policies and procedures. Hastings Area School System is in the process of reviewing our systems. The board of education’s policy committee is reviewing recommendations from the State of Michigan, Thrun Law Firm and NEOLA Inc. to ensure compliance and implementation. This policy will cover bullying in the traditional sense, but in particular, answer much-needed guidelines in the arena of cyberbullying. Cyberbullying involves the use of information and communication technologies, such as email, cell phone, text messaging, instant messaging, defamatory personal websites, and defamatory online personal polling websites to support deliberate, repeated and hostile behavior by an individual or group that is intended to harm others. It seems to be even worse than live bullying because the perpetrators are not bound by time or space, and the audience can be much, much bigger. With the power of technology, the offenses can be much more cruel since they can incorporate a rich array of media (sounds, altered graphics, text, video, slide shows and photos) to deliver the attacks. Consider the following real situations among cyberbullying victims as reported in one national newspaper: When Joanne had a row with a longtime friend last year, she had no idea it would spill into cyberspace. But what started as a spat at a teenage sleepover swiftly escalated into a three-month harangue of threatening emails and defacement of her weblog. “It was a nonstop nightmare,” said Joanne, 14, a freshman at a private high school in Southern California. “I dreaded going on my computer.” Ashlee, a former elementary school teacher in Birmingham, Ala., said she was sickened by the manner girls manipulated one another with instant messages. “I grew to hate that,” she said. “If I find you, I will beat you up,” one message read. Frightened, Michael blocked their instant message addresses but didn’t tell his parents for two weeks. “It scared me,” he said. “It was the first time I was bullied.” At one elementary school in Fairfax, Va., last year, sixth grade students conducted an online poll to determine the ugliest classmate, school officials say. Cyberbullying is so pervasive in one New York county that officials held a half-day conference last month for students, parents, teachers and law enforcement officials; 600 people attended. The following websites are recommended for additional information: www.cyberbullying.ca/pdf/Cyberbullying_Information, www.cyberbullying.ca/pdf/Cyberbullying_In formation.pdf, www.guardingkids.com and www.guardingkids.comand http://iSafe.org. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Hastings Area Schools started its 2011-12 fiscal year with a fund balance of $340,780, or 1.5 percent. The current projected fund balance by June 30 is $67,096, or just .29 percent. Last week, the board unanimously approved a motion for an approximate $22,680 contract for budgeting assistance with Dan Savoy, owner of School and Municipal Advisory Service of Charlotte, who helped prepare the mid-year budget amendment approved unanimously by the board Monday indicates that the district will be deficit spending by the end of the 2011-12 school year. “Let’s be honest here, $67,000 fund balance out of a $20 million budget is a problem” said Trustee Dan Patton. “There are 48 school districts that are deficit spending and we’re going to be there — it is a reality that we’re going to be there ... We’re doing this amendment now; we’re going to be doing another in three months. That probably shows us deficit spending. “I hate the fact that that is going to happen on my watch,” he said. “We’re basically at a fund balance of zero, give or take,” said Board President Kevin Beck, who asked if the district could institute a spending freeze. Interim Superintendent Michelle Falcon said the district’s largest expense is personnel. “We are not doing anything different with personnel,” she said. “We’ve done what we can do when it comes down to those types of things. “We are looking at a new way of budgeting, of processing, and we have already done a lot of work ...” said Falcon. “But, as you can see, with the margin of error, $60,000 makes it pretty tight.” “This didn’t happen overnight,” said Falcon. Board Trustee Gene Haas agreed with Falcon and Patton. “In defense of the staff,” he said, “over the past five or six years, we have cut and cut, and I think there is a mentality in our staff that recognizes we are in deep trouble ... You are right, Dan; we could very well be the next deficit district. It doesn’t take much to blow $67,000. If you have a repair or something that comes up that requires a major overhaul or rebuild, we are in serious, serious trouble. “If there is a silver lining to this whole thing,” he added, “it is that everybody understands — we’re broke and we need to start rethinking how we do business, because the way we’ve done business isn’t going to cut it.” The amended budget shows revenues increased by $103,614 mainly due to increases in grant funding. However, expenses increased $136,861, due mainly to expenses associated with the grant funding increases. There were also increases to the cost of the Hastings Education Association insurance, additional sub costs, workbooks, May’s election costs and legal fees. These increases were somewhat offset by savings from the bus drivers and Hastings Education Support Personnel Association contracts. The board unanimously approved a contract with HESPA the union that represents the district’s secretarial, maintenance, paraprofessional and food service staff. The two-year contract includes a step freeze in wages and no increase for the first year (July 1, 2011, to June 30, 2012), and a reopener on salary and benefits only for the second year, (July 1, 2012, to June 30, 2013); employee insurance contributions increased 10 percent, which will result in a $25,000 savings for the district over the next three months. Plus, state caps on the district’s contributions for health insurance costs is the same as for the Hastings Education Association, which represents the district’s teachers. Language changes include revised job descriptions, aligned equal paid snow days and imposed Public Employees Retirement Association language regarding overtime. In other business, the board: • Heard prepared public speaking presentations from Hastings FFA members Austin Haywood and Ethan Haywood, and presentation of the FFA creed by Becky Maurer. That latter two qualified to compete at the state FFA convention next week. • Heard public comment from Luke Haywood and Mary Macqueen regarding the high school curriculum that requires all students, starting with the class of 2016, to take one semester of career exploration and preparation. Both Haywood and Macqueen said the new requirement, in addition to the expanded core curriculum, would limit students’ participation in co-curricular classes such as band, choir and more. Another parent expressed similar concerns about the one year of physical education requirement. • Gave final approval for the following travel study requests: Hastings High School Business Professionals of America to the state leadership conference in Grand Rapids, March 22 to 25; the annual eighth grade trip to Washington, D.C., and Gettysburg battlefields June 6 through 10; high school Youth in Government club to attend the spring Michigan Youth in Government Conference in Lansing March 14 to 18; Hastings High School Varsity Singers to the Heritage Music Festival in Chicago April 12 and 13; and Hastings Ski Club to Crystal Mountain in Thompsonville, March 3. It also approved, in principle, the annual eighth grade trip to Chicago May 24. • Approved the personnel report which included the following appointments: Ann Beemer, middle school Science Olympiad advisor; Patrick Coltson, eighth grade girls basketball coach; Victoria Cybulski, Community Education and Recreation Center front desk substitute; Kaylee DeMink, CERC front desk substitute; Elyse Fox, Northeastern and Star elementary Title I instructional assistant; Teresa Heide, seventh grade girls basketball coach; Larry Hurt, substitute bus driver; Erica Krause, CERC front desk substitute; James Murphy, seventh grade girls basketball coach; Nancy Smith, substitute bus driver; Deborah Storm, Central and Southeastern elementary Title I instructional assistant; William VanDenberg, substitute bus driver; and Richard Ziegler, substitute bus driver. • Approved the use of high school facilities for one week during the summer of 2013 for the Group Cares youth mission project. • Accepted donations of $2,400 from the Barry Community Foundation to provide a fifth grade fishing program for all elementary schools; $5,500 from the Hastings Athletic Boosters for equipment for the 2011-12 winter athletic season; and $250 in donated labor from Brad Warner for the installation of carpeting in the young adult library at Hastings High School. • Announced that the board’s next monthly work session will begin at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 13, in the multi-purpose room of Hastings Middle School, 232 W, Grand St.; and, the next regular meeting of the Hastings Board of Education will be at 7:30 p.m. Monday, March 19, in the lecture hall of Hastings High School, 520 W. South St. Tonight’s millage information session canceled The information meeting scheduled for tonight, Thursday, March 1, in the Hastings High School lecture hall to discuss the upcoming proposed recreational millage has been canceled due to the funeral visitation schedule for faculty member Carrie Roe. HASTINGS AUTOMATIC H EATING & PLUMBING 2165 W. M-43 HWY. HASTINGS, MI 49058 945-5769 269- Last week’s question: Do you plan to vote in Tuesday’s presidential primary? 75% 25% Yes No The Hastings q Yes q No Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Helen Mudry Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 SERVING BARRY COUNTY OVER 50+ YEARS LICENSED & INSURED Area Locations to purchase the Hastings Banner! Hastings: One Stop Shop (BP) (M-43 North) Tom’s Market Superette Family Fare One Stop Food (BP) (M-37 South) Hastings Speedy Mart (Shell) Bosley Admiral Penn-Nook Gift Shop P.B. Gas Station (W. State St.) BP Gas Station (M-37 West) Xpress Mart Family Fare Gas Station Middleville: Speedway Middleville Marketplace Greg’s Get-It-N-Go Shell Gun Lake: Sam’s Gourmet Foods Gun Lake Amoco Gun Lake Shell Orangeville: Orangeville Fast Stop Pine Lake: Pine Lake Grocery Prairieville: Prairieville Fast Stop Cloverdale: Cloverdale General Brown’s Cedar Creek Grocery Delton: Felpausch Michigan Short Stop Shell Fine Lake: Fine Lake Party Store Banfield: Banfield General Store Lacey: Clyde’s Sportsman Post Dowling: Goldsworthys Dowling General Store Woodland: Woodland Express Nashville: Trading Post Little’s Country Store Shell MV Pharmacy Nashville C Store Carl’s Lake Odessa: Lake-O-Express Lake-O-Mart Shell Carl’s Freeport: L & J’s Freeport Milling Shelbyville: Weick’s Food Town The Store at Southshore 77566089 Brett Bremer Casey Cheney Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • All Your Heating & Plumbing Needs 77566160 Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website, www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. Don’t forget to leave an opinion or comment. For this week: Leading Republican candidates in Tuesday’s presidential primary accused the others of encouraging Democratic voters to cross primary lines to vote Republican. Did you cross party lines with your vote? New Furnaces, A.C. Units, Boilers, Water Heaters, In-Floor Heating, Repairs. 77566043 think? What do you Primary accusations Residential & Commercial �Page 6 — Thursday, March 1, 2012 — The Hastings Banner GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. Worship Together… Area Obituaries Arthur E. Stauffer Jerrie Ann McKeown Harriet (Micki) Mae Gillum HASTINGS, MI - Arthur E. Stauffer, age 89, died Wednesday, February 22, 2012. He was born in Clarksville, the son of Alcid Stauffer and Lotta (Fairchild) Stauffer. He married Beulah B. (Bush) on May 31, 1949 in Hastings. He is survived by three children, David A. Stauffer of Hastings, Carol C. (Stauffer) and Veryl Fees of Des Moines, Iowa, and Paul A. Stauffer of Hastings; one brother, Robert F. Stauffer; three grandchildren, Philip, Elizabeth and Hope, all of Des Moines, Iowa; six great-grandchildren, Zachery and Ryan Fees, Malie and Libby Anderson, and Eric and Grace Ruelle, all of Des Moines, Iowa; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Beulah B. (Bush) Stauffer (2005); brothers, Emerson R., Albert C., and Stanley A. Stauffer; his sisters, Ruth M. (Stauffer) McPharlin, Hazel M. (Stauffer) Brown and Nettie Mae (Stauffer) Newland. Art moved to Hastings in 1929, where he lived his entire life. He graduated from Hastings High School in 1942. Art was a herdsman at the Cook Dairy Farm until drafted into the Army in 1944. He served in the Pacific, stationed in the Philippines and Japan until discharged in 1946. Art worked 19 years at Highland Dairy and 19 years for the City of Hastings Street Department, retiring in 1984. He then delivered flowers for Hastings Flower Shop for two years, Floral Designs of Hastings for two years and also worked for Felpausch of Hastings for seven years. Art was head usher and sang at the First United Methodist Church, was a volunteer at Pennock Hospital and a Boy Scout leader for Troop 73. He enjoyed traveling and went to Hawaii, Switzerland, Alaska and many states in the United States and Canada. Art enjoyed all sports, watching the Tigers baseball team the most. He loved flowers, grandchildren, playing card games, square and round dancing, line dancing, cooking and gardening. Memorial contributions may be made to MagnumCare, 240 E. North St., Hastings, MI 49058. Funeral services were held Tuesday, February 28, 2012, at the First United Methodist Church, 209 W. Green St., Hastings. Pastor Don Spachman, officiating. Burial took place at Riverside Cemetery. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message to the family. MIDDLEVILLE, MI - Jerrie Ann McKeown, of Middleville, passed away, February 25, 2012, at her son's home. Jerrie Ann was born December 3, 1920, the daughter of the late John and Wilma (Allgeo) Bolhuis. Jerrie Ann married Andrew McKeown May 15, 1941 at her parents home in Grand Rapids, a friend, Rev. Louis Rigelman performed the ceremony. Jerrie Ann was a loyal employee of SavMor Market as a cashier for 25 years, and she also worked as a waitress. A member of the Middleville United Methodist Church, United Methodist Women and Jubilee, Jerrie Ann worked on election boards, was a volunteer for the American Red Cross Blood Bank and was a speaker for the Alzheimer's Association. She enjoyed crocheting and feeding the wild birds, but most of all her pride and joy was found in her five grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband Andrew McKeown and a brother Jack A. Bolhuis. She is survived by her son: James (Colleen) McKeown of Middleville; grandchildren, James A. (Linda Aldrich) McKeown II of Middleville, Patti Ann McKeown of Sellersville, PA, John (Jacque) McKeown of North Pole, AK, Jason McKeown of Middleville and Kristin McKeown Koshar of Watervliet; eight great grandchildren (Meghan, Elaine, David, Lydia, Sam, Lilly, Alexis and Jack); two step great grandchildren, (Brandon and Brock); sister, Patricia (Chet) Jatal of Grand Rapids. A funeral service for Jerrie Ann was conducted Tuesday, February 28, 2012 at the Middleville United Methodist Church, Dr. Michael T. Conklin officiating. Interment was in Mt. Hope Cemetery, Middleville. Those who wish to make a memorial contribution are asked to consider the Thornapple Area Foundation, United Methodist Church, or the Alzheimer's Association. Please visit www.beelergoresfuneral.com to view and sign Jerrie's guestbook. Arrangements made by Beeler-Gores Funeral Home, Middleville. NASHVILLE, MI - Harriet (Micki) Mae Gillum, age 76, of Nashville, passed away February 18, 2012. She was born April 10, 1935 in Rimansburg, PA, the daughter of Lawson O. McCaskey and Molly Emily Swyers. Micki married Hank Gillum on August 13, 1981. She was a Tupperware sales manager for 15 years. Micki enjoyed driving semi cross country with Hank. She was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary. Micki was preceded in death by her parents; four brothers and one sister. She is survived by her husband, Henry (Hank) Gillum of Nashville; children, Joe (Carla) Bauwkamp of Tennessee, Robin (Dan) Spicer of Grand Haven, Kim (Steve) Norman of Grand Rapids, Jackie (Marshell) Clark of Portland, Brian Gillum of Constantine, Joey Gillum and Sean Gillum of Nashville; 12 grandchildren; 21 great grandchildren; three great-great grandchildren; sisters, Louise Killeen of Rochester, PA, Pat Eikis of Beechgrove, IN; special niece, Patty Archer of Columbus, OH and in-laws, Kathy (Larry) Hayes. Memorial contributions may be made to: South Harbor Church, 1951 64th St. SW, Byron Center, MI 49315 or Senior Sing-ALong, 2967 Byron Ct. Rd., Wyoming, MI 49519. A memorial visitation and service was held Wednesday, February 22, 2012 at the South Harbor Church in Byron Center, Pastor Tom Elenbaas officiated the service. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guestbook or to leave a memory or message to the family. 77566080 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. ORANGEVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH 6921 Marsh Rd., 2 miles south of Gun Lake, Plainwell. Phone 269664-4377. OrangevilleBaptist. org. Pastors Dan Bowman and Adam Parmenter. Sundays - 9:45--10:45 a.m. “Dealing With Your Past” March through May. March 25 - 6 p.m. “Messiah in the Passover’ Seder Meal. March 31 - 7 p.m. Orangeville Cafe. April 8 - 7:30 & 11 a.m. Easter Celebration. April 22-27 - Evangelist Will Rice. Children, teen and adult Sunday School classes; 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Worship; 5:30 p.m. Junior and Senior High Word of Life Clubs. Tuesday - 9 a.m. Men’s Prayer and Bible Study. Wednesday - 6:30 p.m. Pre-school through 6th grade Word of Life Gophers & Olympians. Prayer & Bible Study - 7 p.m. 6 p.m. Teen Word of Life. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Paul Osborn, Minister of Music; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service, Jr. & Sr. High Groups. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. HASTINGS SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH 904 Terry Lane, Hastings (or on the corner of Starr School Road and Terry Lane.) Phone: (269) 9452170. Pastor Michael Wise. Sabbath www.hastingssda.com (Saturday) School 9:30 a.m.; worship service 10:50 a.m. Mid-week meetings informal study and prayer service, Wednesdays 7 p.m. Youth ministry clubs, Adventurers for preschool to 4th grade students and Pathfinders for 5th grade students through high school, meet on the first and third Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. and first and third Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. respectively. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. CHURCH OF THE LIVING GOD A full gospel church. 1240 W. State Rd., Hastings. Pastor Doug Davis. 269-948-9740. Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study 6 p.m. Sunday School and Youth Group for all ages. Come and worship the Lord with us! . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Phone 269-721-8077. Minister Ryan Wieland 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Praise Worship Service; Noon alternate weekends Youth Group Tuesday. Covenant Prayer Group, Wednes-day 6:30 p.m., Choir Practice. Thursday 7 p.m. Praise Band Practice. 2nd and 4th Thursdays at 7 p.m. Christ’s Quilters. Friday 6:30 p.m., CPRChrist’s Plan for Recovery (meal served). For more information small groups, special evnts or if you have a prayer requst, call the church office and see postings on WEB site: www.countrychapel.umc.org. SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Cronk cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 2 p.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-797-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nash-ville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 or -517-852-1806. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS REFORMED CHURCH “A Historic Reformed Community.” Sunday morning services begin at 10 a.m. Meeting at the Barry County Commission on Aging building, 320 W. Woodlawn Ave., Hastings. Pastor: Peter Adams. 616-690-8609 padams@juno.com. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 9:15 Contemporary Worship, 10:30 a.m. Refreshments, 11 a.m. Traditional Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Pastor of Senior Adults and Visitation, Don Brail. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. for children, youths and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Senior High Youth Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Mid-Week: 6:30-7:45 p.m. Pioneer Clubs, age 4th to 5th grade, and Junior High Youth Group, 6th-8th grade. Thursday: 10 a.m. Senior Adult Discussion and 11:30 a.m., lunch at Wendy’s. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Sunday, March 4 - Worship at 8 & 10:45 a.m. Sunday School at 9:30 a.m.. Holy Communion Every Sunday! March 4 - Constitution Work Group after 2nd Service, Men’s AA at 7 p.m. March 5 Women of Faith Bible Study at 7 p.m. March 6 - Brothers of Grace at 7 p.m. March 7 - Wordwatchers Bible Study at 10 a.m.; Lenten Supper 6 p.m.; Taize Lenten Worship 7 p.m.; Sarah Circle at 8 p.m. March 8 - Clapper Kids Bell Choir at 3:45 p.m.; Adult Choir at 7 p.m. March 9 - High School Lock In 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269945-9414 or 945-2645, fax 269-9452698. Pastor Amy Luckey http://www.discovergrace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 10 a.m. Sunday School for All Ages; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service; 6 p.m. YOuth Group; 6 p.m. Small Group Study. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blog spot.com. Thursday - 9 a.m. Men’s Bible Study; 11:30 Women’s Brown Bag Bible Study. Friday - 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday - 8:30 a.m. Men’s Breakfast Series; 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday - 4 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Tuesday - 1 p.m. Lenten Bible Study; 6:30 p.m. Women’s Bible Study. Wednesday - 5 p.m. Pickleball. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Fiberglass Products Lauer Family Funeral Homes 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, March 1 — Movie Memories are on pins and needles waiting for Laura to decide, 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, March 2 — preschool story time reads about going shopping, ” 10:30 to 11 a.m. Saturday, March 3 — Lego Club is creating Famous Landmarks, 1 to 3 p.m. Monday, March 5 — winter reading club for adults continues; computer class is taking on Microsoft Word, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 6 — toddler story time reads about picky eaters, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30; open chess club, 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, March 7 — 1st to 3rd Club has a grand time with St. Patrick’s Day; library book club discusses Caleb’s Crossing by Geraldine Brooks, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Call the Hastings Public Library for more information, 269-945-4263. Duane Bruce Windes Josephine A. (Markowski) Tomczyk Josephine A. (Markowski) Tomczyk, formerly of Jackson, passed away on Saturday, February 25, 2012 age 89 years. Survived by two children; Marsha (Stuart) Bassett of Delton, Michigan and Michael Tomczyk of Newport Beach, California. Three grandchildren; Michael, Sarah and Anna Bassett. Preceded in death by her husband of 52 years Steve; daughter, Pat McMillan and brothers, LaVerne, Clarence and Leonard Markowski. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Queen of the Miraculous Medal Catholic Church in Jackson on Friday, March 2, 2012 at 11 a.m. with grave side services at St. John’s Catholic Cemetery at 2 p.m. Father Timothy MacDonald will officiate at the Funeral Mass. Contributions to the Alzheimer Association or to St. Ambrose Catholic Church in Delton would be appreciated. The family will receive friends at the Desnoyer Funeral Home in Jackson on Thursday from 4:30 to 7 p.m. The family will also receive friends at Queen’s Church on Friday from 10:30 to 11 a.m. To send condolences to the family go to www.desnoyerfuneralhome.com or www.mlive.com. HASTINGS, MI - Duane Bruce Windes, of Hastings, passed away, February 23, 2012, at his home. Duane was born May 15, 1930, the son of the late Bruce and Marie (Wagner) Windes. Duane was a loyal employee of the Barry County Road Commission for many years. Duane enjoyed John Deere tractors, old cars and motorcycles, and spending time outdoors enjoying the deer, birds, and flowers. Most of all Duane enjoyed spending time with his family. Duane is survived by his wife, Sandra (Hinckley) Windes; children, Katy (Randy) Loughry, Kimberly (Chris) Joles, Matthew (Amy Hamilton) Windes, Duane (Rikki McMellen) Windes, Tracy (David) Krebs, Ken (Halina) Windes, Koleen (Mark) Noteboom, Keith (Tracey) Windes, Kathy Dexter, and Marilyn (Sigmund) Reckline; a sister, Maurene (John) Robinson; several grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. A funeral service for Duane was conducted, Monday, February 27, 2012 at the Thornapple Valley Church, Hastings. Private burial took place in Irving Township Cemetery. Those who wish to make a memorial contribution are asked to consider the needs of the family. Please visit www.beelergores funeral.com to view and sign Duane's online guest book. �Social News The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 1, 2012 — Page 7 Newborn Babies Romney wins Michigan primary vote GOP presidential hopeful Mitt Romney clinched the Michigan primary Tuesday, edging out Rick Santorum, with Ron Paul coming in third and New Gingrich last. Romney also took the Arizona caucus. Romney campaigned in Calhoun County Monday when he visited Castor Concepts in Albion. Here, he shows a campaign poster for his father's 1968 campaign. (Shopper News photo by John Hendler) CANDIDATES, continued from page 1 “I have faith in this process. I think the rest of the board does, and I hope the public does as well... We are being deliberate in doing this... I believe we do have a very nice slate of people we are going to do site visits and second interviews with.” Marriage Licenses Nicholas Ryan Glasgow, Hastings and Kayla Ann Smith, Woodland. Need wedding invitations? its are tentatively scheduled to take place Thursday, March 1, and Friday, March 2, with second-round interviews tentatively scheduled for 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, March 8, in the multi-purpose room of Hastings Middle School, 232 W. Grand St., Hastings. BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY Freda Morgan to celebrate 85th birthday Freda G. Morgan is blessed to be 85 years old March 8, 2012. She currently volunteers at Pennock Hospital, helps with decorations at COA, bakes for neighbors and friends, and regularly visits the ill and elderly. Printing Plus North of Hastings on M-43 Highway Bedford Order of Eastern Star #471 CORNBEEF & CABBAGE DINNER Saturday, March 10 Bedford Masonic Center Serving from 5 pm - 7 pm Adults $9 / Children 10 & under $4 Call 269-963-8737 for more info. by Gerald Stein HELP WANTED NORTH WEST Stop by and check out the large selection at J-Ad Graphics Board President Kevin Beck 77566157 Beck said public evaluations collected during the first round of interviews was factored into the board’s decision-making process. “I have faith in this process. I think the rest of the board does, and I hope the public does as well...” he said. “We are being deliberate in doing this... I believe we do have a very nice slate of people we are going to do site visits and second interviews with.” Board Trustee Gene Haas said that with the Thornapple Kellogg School District also looking for a new superintendent, Hastings Area Schools are at a competitive disadvantage. “They have money, and we don’t,” he said. “That should not color our decision, but it certainly makes our chances for success diminished.” According to board secretary and personnel committee chair Donna Garrison, site vis- Hannah Marie, born at Pennock Hospital on Jan. 20, 2012 at 10:35 a.m. to Timothy and Allison Stuart of Lake Odessa. Weighing 8 lbs. 0 ozs. and 19 inches long. ***** Adrian Lee, born at Pennock Hospital on Feb. 6, 2012 at 7:50 a.m. to Corinne McLaughlin and Andrew Adams of Lake Odessa. Weighing 7 lbs. 3 ozs. and 19 inches long. ***** Jeremy Michael, born at Pennock Hospital on Feb. 17, 2012 at 7:54 p.m. to Melissa and Mike Lee of Lake Odessa. Weighing 8 lbs. 7 ozs. and 21 1/2 inches long. ***** Nellie Jane, born at Pennock Hospital on Feb. 19, 2012 at 8:51 p.m. to Lesley and Lesleigh Hale of Clarksville. Weighing 7 lbs. 5 ozs. and 19 1/2 inches long. ***** Ava Elise, born at Pennock Hospital on Feb. 21, 2012 at 10:06 a.m. to Ryan and Amy Adams of Lowell. Weighing 8 lbs. 9 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Lillian Rose, born at Pennock Hospital on Feb. 21, 2012 at 6:30 a.m. to Joshua and Kara Haas of Delton. Weighing 9 lbs. 1 oz. and 19.5 inches long. ***** Gage David, born at Pennock Hospital on Feb. 21, 2012 at 3:13 p.m. to Andrew and Sandra Beach of Lowell. Weighing 7 lbs. 2 ozs. and 19.5 inches long. N: K 10 M: A Q J 10 9 6 4 L: K 7 2 K: 3 N: A J 9 M: K 5 3 L: 10 8 K: A K Q 4 2 SOUTH: Please send resume to: recruiter@optimalstaffing.com ® The LLC 301 East Broadway Woodland, MI 48897 Attention: Randy Hart 77566177 N: Q 5 M: 8 7 2 L:Q 9 4 3 K: 10 7 6 5 Mail Your Resume to: Diamond Propane Nashville, Marshall, Springport, Jackson Various Shifts Available Trach and Vent Experience Preferred Must have reliable transportation 77566173 N: 8 7 6 4 3 2 M:--L: A J 6 5 K: J 9 8 EAST Diamond Propane, located in Woodland is looking for a parttime Customer Service Representative. Flexible hours – 4 hours average per day, $9.00 per hour. • Knowledge of social media platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, etc • Strong business acumen with a documented history of success • Demonstrated technical skills in online commerce and development • Superior communication skills with strong attention to detail RN/LPN Private Duty Immediate Openings No phone calls please. Lead: M2 Anything Goes to be presented March 1, 2, 3, at 7:00 pm March 4 at 3:00 pm at Central Auditorium & 07594003 Thomas M. Hoffman, M.D. www.mtd-inc.com EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Innovative Tooling & Manufacturing Company Seeks Qualified Candidates EXPERIENCED R.N. 2ND SHIFT JOURNEYMAN TOOL & DIE MAKER Candidates Must Be Experienced with Progressive/Transfer Dies NEW Die Build - Die Try Outs - In Press Repair needed for Care Manager position with focus on patient education, and management of chronic disease conditions. Training Provided. Flexible hours. If interested, send resume to: 1005 West Green Street Hastings, MI 49058 07594059 3RD SHIFT JOURNEYMAN TOOL & DIE MAKER / DIE REPAIR Candidates Must Be Experienced with Progressive/Transfer Die and Press Knowledge PURCHASING AGENT Candidates Must Have Experience Purchasing/Negotiating within a Metal Stamping Environment (ALL BOM components & Outside Processes), a Proven Record with Supplier Development, exp. w/ Tool & Die Components, and various orders based on department demands. 3RD SHIFT MAINTENANCE REPAIR Requires Specific Skills with FANUC Robot Programming, Allen Bradley PLC Controls, Stamping Punch Press Repairs, Industrial Wiring & Electronics Send Resume to: Jeffrey Lord - Human Resources 1900 Patterson Rd, Middleville, 49333 Email: jeffreyl@mtd-inc.com 06774665 North has a solid opening bid with strong hearts, a singleton club, and two kings. North has big plans for his team, envisioning a marriage of four hearts if his partner has some support. This is all supposition, however, barring interference from the opponents. East has other plans for his team, and he bids a solid 1NT overcall, promising between 15 and 18 high card points. He has them too with a heart stopper behind North’s opening bid. Poor South is poor indeed and reluctantly passes. Four points is too little to help out his partner North even with three helping hearts in his hand. Enter West with six spades, but what miserable-looking spades, he thinks. However, per their partnership agreement, West bids a transfer bid of 4M, often called a Texas Transfer or a Super Transfer because it is a big jump, promising enough for game in the next suit, in this case, spades. Also he has just re-evaluated his hand upwards with the void in hearts. North sees his promising 4M bid evaporate before his eyes. It is his “twenty minutes to nine” moment, and the best he can do is to double for a lead-directing message to his partner South. West completes the bidding by answering the transfer bid from his partner to 4N. All pass and East has an easy time taking his ten tricks, making a non-vulnerable game. North-South are able to take only the three tricks that come their way, and not one of them is a heart trick. North is indeed heart-broken. He ponders the thought of sacrificing by bidding 5M, but he realizes that even then, the best that the North-South team could do would be to take eight tricks, down three tricks, no doubt doubled by East, for a loss of 500 points. That would be a worse score than allowing the East-West team to make their 4N contract. All in all, sometimes even with an outstanding hand that North holds and is hoping for a good contract, the nature of bridge bidding is an auction, and the highest bidder wins the contract. While broken-hearted on this hand, North will play again and will do well on another hand. That is the nature of the game, and a wonderful game it is. Finally, to honor the memory of Charles Dickens and his contributions to the world of literature and storytelling, it is most appropriate to bid a Happy 200th Birthday to a great author and great social critic: February 7, 1812-February 7, 2012. Happy Birthday, Charles Dickens. (An update from Institute for Learning in Retirement’s Beginning Bridge class going on currently in Battle Creek at Kellogg Community College: Students have learned to use the various numbers in bridge; they have learned to compare and contrast the Charles Goren way of the 1960’s and the modern Standard American way of playing bridge; they have learned the Stayman Convention, and they are playing hands of bridge and laughing. According to Mert, one of the students, “This is the fastest two hours of my week.”) (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs.) Directors Patti LaJoye and Todd Willard invite you to come out and see Hastings School’s production of the musical 77564841 “Do you know what I touch here?” Miss Havisham asked, laying her hands, one upon the other, on her left side. “Yes, ma’karen,” said Pip. “What do I touch?” “Your heart.” “Broken!” (from Great Expectations, Chapter VIII). In today’s bridge hand, North could feel much like Charles Dickens’ reclusive spinster Miss Havisham, jilted on her wedding day at twenty minutes to nine. Her world ended at that moment. North hopefully will shrug off the vagaries of bridge-playing and will look forward to the next hand. The bidding went as follows: Dealer West North East South Pass 1M 1NT Pass 4M Dbl 4N All Pass �Page 8 — Thursday, March 1, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of by Elaine Garlock Friday, from 5 to 7 p.m., the area historical society will host a soup and bread supper at the Freight House. This has become an annual event with a variety of soups being served, along with other good food. Funds raised will go toward a new roof. The current roof has been in place for 25 years. The south side has been affected by weather more than has the north side. The Ionia County Genealogical Society will meet Saturday, March 10, at 1 p.m. Always, there is a program, library time and refreshments. Visitors are welcome. The Lake Odessa Area Historical Society will meet Thursday, March 8, at 7 p.m. There will be a program and refreshments. Last Thursday, several members met to undecorate the eight trees that have been on display since November. More than 600 colorful ornaments hung on the evergreens. Using a printed list to be sure the ornaments were packed in the proper boxes, two people unloaded the trees, the wires were removed from each to avoid scratching, and the names were checked against the list. The ornaments were then packed in the proper boxes and labeled according to the year in which they Call anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads 269-945-9554 were first created. Back in November, it was necessary to hang more than one year’s worth on each tree. Also the trees were marked by year. This project required more than three hours, but next year’s should be easier. A Hastings obituary last week for Arthur Stauffer, 89, of Hastings reminded local people of his years as a route delivery man for Highland Dairy back when milkmen made house deliveries. Last year’s art show at the museum complex drew good crowds both days. The lobby was filled with the 30 pieces of artwork done by Phylis Armstrong of Sebewa Township. The large room with its museum pieces on constant display also had paintings, drawings, a restored doll, sketches and other pieces. Printed guide sheets were a help to those attending so they could read comments and explanation of the many pieces. Each exhibit was numbered to match the guide sheets. Works of sculpted metals created by Tony Jackson drew a lot of comments. Two of his “birds” featured tail feathers made from silver table knives and beaks made from long-blade shears. Other pieces of his creation have been in Grand Rapids ArtPrize. School was canceled Friday, Feb. 24, because of snow. The next exhibit at the Freight House will be March 24 and 25 when the show “Here Comes the Bride,” a first-time event, will be held. It is time to hunt for bridal fashions and accessories to exhibit. Hostesses will be Thelma Curtis and Lynda Cobb Saturday with Laurine Henry and Darla Forshey in the hostess role Sunday. Probably Monday political robo calls set a record. Several calls came during each hour of the day. Maybe residents will now get a respite until November. HASTINGS CHARTER TOWNSHIP BOARD OF REVIEW MEETING SCHEDULE The Hastings Charter Township Board of Review for 2012 will be held at the Township Hall at 885 River Road, Hastings, MI 49058 on the following dates: Tuesday, March 6 Organization Meeting 1 pm Wednesday, March 14 Appeal Hearing 9-12 Noon & 6-9 pm Thursday, March 15 Appeal Hearing 9-12 Noon & 1-4 pm The Board of Review will meet as many more days as deemed necessary to hear questions, protests, and to equalize the 2012 assessments. Written protests may be sent to the above address by Tuesday, March 13, 2012. The tentative ratios and the estimated multiplier for each class of real property for 2012 are as follows: CLASS RATIO MULTIPLIER Agricultural 55.08% 0.9078 Commercial 53.60% 0.9328 Industrial 54.10% 0.9242 Residential 50.37% 0.9927 Developmental None in class Timber Cutover None in class Jim Brown, Supervisor Hastings Charter Township Ph. 269.948.9690 Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the township clerk at least seven (7) days in advance of the hearing. This notice posted in compliance with PA 267 of 1976 as amended (Open Meetings Act) MCLA41.72a(2)(3) and with the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA). 77565937 TOWNSHIP OF PRAIRIEVILLE 2012 NOTICE OF BOARD OF REVIEW PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Review will meet at the Township Hall, 10115 S. Norris Rd. Delton, Michigan 49046, to examine and review the 2012 assessment roll. The board will convene on the following dates for the hearing of appeals of assessments or taxable values, poverty exemptions, parcel classification appeals and/or current year qualified agricultural denials: Tuesday, March 6, 2012, 1:00 pm Organizational Meeting Monday, March 12, 2012, 1:00 to 4:00 pm and 6:00 to 9:00 pm Tuesday, March 13, 2012, 9:00 am to Noon and 1:00 to 4:00 pm And on such additional days as required to hear all persons who have given notice of the desire to be heard until assessment rolls have been revised, corrected and approved. APPOINTMENTS ARE SUGGESTED; letter appeals will be accepted and must be received no later than 5:00 pm March 12, 2012 Tentative ratios and estimated multipliers for 2012 are as follows: Agricultural 40.61% 1.2312 Commercial 52.72% 0.9484 Industrial 40.55% 1.2330 Residential 49.65% 1.0070 Personal Property 50.00% 1.0000 Tentative equalization factor of 1.0000 for all classes is expected after completion of Board of Review. Jim Stoneburner, Supervisor Prairieville Township Kevin Harris, Assessor Prairieville Township Prairieville Township Board Meetings are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, sex or disability. American with Disabilities (ADA) Notice The township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/hearing upon seven-(7) days notice to Prairieville Township. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact Prairieville Township by writing or calling. Jill Owens Prairieville Township Clerk 10115 S. Norris Rd. Delton, MI 49046 269-623-2726 77565832 EDWARD JONES Sell investments for the right reasons It’s important to understand which investments to own, and when to buy them. But you should also know when it’s time to sell an investment — and why. Unfortunately, many people sell investments for the wrong reasons. Some people want the money to purchase so-called “hot” investments, even if these new investments aren’t appropriate for their needs. Others own investments that have lost value, and fearing further losses, they decide to sell — thereby violating the oldest rule of investing: “Buy low and sell high.” These types of behavior can lead to at least two major problems. First, if you’re constantly selling investments, you’ll likely incur fees, commissions and taxes that can erode any returns you did manage to achieve. And second, by frequently selling off your investments and buying new ones, you’ll find it difficult to follow the type of consistent, longterm financial strategy that’s essential to help you work toward your goals. If you shouldn’t sell investments to find quick gains or to avoid losses that may not even occur, when should you sell? You might want to sell: If your goals have changed — You bought certain investments because you thought they would help you make progress toward your objectives. But over time, your goals may change, so in response, you may need to sell some investments and use the money to purchase new ones that are more suitable for your new goals. For example, early in your career, you might have benefited from owning investments that offered high potential for growth, but as you near retirement, you may need to shift some — but certainly not all — of your growth-oriented vehicles to incomeproducing ones. If the investments themselves change — You might have bought a stock because you liked the company’s products, business plan or management team. If any of these factors change significantly, though, you might need to re-evaluate your ownership of this investment. If you need to rebalance your portfolio — You may have decided that your investment portfolio should be composed of specific percentages of stocks, bonds and “cash” instruments. But due to changes in the value of your investments, these percentages can shift somewhat, resulting in a portfolio that no longer reflects your goals and risk tolerance. If that happens, you’ll need to rebalance your holdings, which may require you to sell some of your investments. If an investment has chronically underperformed — Sometimes, an investment simply doesn’t perform as well as you had hoped. When this happens, you may be better off by selling the investment and using the money to pursue new opportunities. However, don’t rush to judgment. Before you sell an underperforming investment, try to determine why it hasn’t done well. Is it because the market as a whole has slumped? If so, your investment could rebound when the market does. Or are there separate factors, unique to this investment, that have caused its problems? If the investment’s fundamentals and prospects still look good, you might want to simply give it time to prove its worth. By knowing when you should hold an investment, and when you shouldn’t, you can avoid costly mistakes and help improve your chances for long-term investment success. So think carefully before putting up the “For Sale” sign on your investments. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 30.02 +.40 AT&T 30.53 +.19 BP PLC 47.84 +.68 CMS Energy Corp 21.45 -.10 Coca-Cola Co 68.85 +.03 Eaton 52.51 +.57 Family Dollar Stores 54.16 -.04 Fifth Third Bancorp 13.62 -.29 Flowserve CP 119.01 +1.15 Ford Motor Co. 12.25 -.28 General Mills 38.09 -.14 General Motors 26.14 -.92 Intel Corp. 27.24 +.08 Kellogg Co. 52.33 +.37 McDonald’s Corp 99.78 -.71 Pfizer Inc. 21.22 unchanged Ralcorp 75.02 +.61 Sears Holding 68.73 +17.79 Spartan Motors 5.63 -.28 Spartan Stores 18.18 +.23 Stryker 54.56 +1.23 TCF Financial 10.85 -.36 Walmart Stores 58.93 -1.14 Gold $1,785.93 +26.60 Silver $36.92 +2.54 Dow Jones Average 13,005 +40 Volume on NYSE 707M -53M Bradford White rezoning recommended despite many neighbors’ concerns by Julie Makarewicz Staff Writer Middleville Village Council members, in a special meeting last night, were to consider a planning commission recommendation to rezone property for Bradford White Corporation. The recommendation came after a special public hearing Saturday, Feb. 25, with planning commissioners saying the rezoning of the four-acre parcel at 904 Grand Rapids St. from residential to light industrial fits the village future land use plans. That future land use has been in place since at least 2006, according to Village Manger Rebecca Fleury. The unanimous recommendation comes in spite of many neighbors in the Bryanwood Estates subdivision and along Riverwood Drive expressing concerns about increased noise, lights and vibrations from trucks and activity so much closer to their homes. Planning commissioners said, while they acknowledge such concerns, most of them pertain to site plan issues and not rezoning issues. Commissioners assured residents their concerns will be addressed during site plan reviews by the planning commission if the property is rezoned. Those site plan reviews are also public meetings and residents can have input. Michael Gordon, senior vice president of engineering for Bradford White, said the need for change is real because of major changes made by the federal government. Those changes are forcing Bradford White to make what Gordon called significant changes throughout the company. “It’s absolutely necessary to change this facility, and it’s not a minor change,” he said. “Bradford White is committed to being good neighbors. We’ve heard concerns, and we are listening and will work with the neighbors.” Plans for the Grand Rapids Street property include leveling and paving to create an area for trailer parking. Construction could start this spring. Several residents also spoke on behalf of Bradford White being a good neighbor and a vital part of the community. SEWER, continued from page 1 At issue is payment on a 1998 bond that financed extension of sewer and water service to residents at Fair Lake in northeast Barry Township. Because projections of new hookups to support increased construction were overly optimistic ahead of the national economy’s downturn that began in 2008, revenue passing through Barry Township to support payments on the bond have been deficient. Barry Township’s share of that bond service will be slightly above $350,000 through 2017, and meeting this year’s payment of $62,097 is estimated to come up short by just under $22,000. At the SBCSWA’s regular monthly meeting Feb. 6, the board reviewed a proposal by Barry Township Trustee — and SBCSWA board member — Roger Turner Jr. to use a portion of the authority’s annual septage fees to assist Barry Township. The board agreed and passed, by the 3-2 vote, a commitment to provide $15,000 for each of the next six years to address Barry Township’s bond shortfall. Opposition votes were cast by SBCSWA Chair James Stoneburner, who said he was concerned that residents and the authority might be assessed by Barry Township to make up the remaining shortfall, and by Barb Earl of Johnstown Township, who protested that two of the favorable votes came from self-interest, having been cast by Barry Township Trustee Turner and Barry Township Supervisor Wes Kahler, also a member of the SBCSWA board. The third and clinching vote at the Feb. 6 meeting was cast by Hope Township Supervisor Patricia Albert, who was substituting for Hope Township Clerk Linda EddyHough, who had suddenly resigned from both her clerk’s position and her trustee position on the SBCSWA. Enter Messelink, who changed Albert’s vote — and the SBCSWA’s Feb. 6 commitment — to a negative one when Turner and Kahler of Barry Township presented a legal agreement this past Monday from township attorney Ken Sparks codifying the Feb. 6 agreement for official signature. “We did have some discussion,” said Messelink, following Monday’s meeting regarding Albert’s approving vote Feb. 6 and his negative one on Monday. “I don’t want to say we disagreed, but you would have to talk to Pat about that.” In a later email communication to the Banner, Messelink provided greater clarity. “The Hope Township Board of Trustees elected me by unanimous vote to serve as their representative on the sewer board,” he said, “and were fully aware of my objections to this bailout.” Though Turner and Kahler scrambled following Monday’s veto of the agreement to assess what could be changed to convince their SBCSWA colleagues to support an edited agreement, Messelink was resolute. “I’m not sure there’ll be language I can support, regardless,” Messelink told SBCSWA board members Monday. “This goes back to 1998 when the Barry Township supervisor knew there would be a shortfall. This could have been settled then and there. I do not see myself supporting any kind of agreement.” Messelink’s email communication included a May 8, 1998, document from the Grand Rapids law firm of Mika, Meyers, Beckett and Jones that indicated Dick Barnum, the Barry Township supervisor he reference, had attempted to address the shortfall at that time. “He [Barnum] was aware that estimated revenues would likely fall short as the numbers were based on very optimistic future residential construction growth,” said Messelink. “Mr. Barnum indicated he was not confident in these projections and would propose to the Barry Township Board that a $3 per month debt service fee be levied on the Fair Lake Extensions sewer customers. “Mr. Barnum intended to present this solution to the shortfall, according to the [Mika, Meyers] memo, at a special meeting of the Barry Township board on May 14, 1998. The Barry Township board apparently rejected this idea. “I say ‘apparently’ because we would not be dealing with this issue today had the Barry Township board accepted Mr. Barnum’s recommendation back in May of 1998.” During the public comments portion of the meeting, previous to board discussion, resident Barbara Cichy was even more contentious in her perspective of past history. “Don’t tell me that nobody knew there would be a shortfall,” said Cichy. “The only people in this room with clean hands are the Fair Lake residents.” Given her negative vote Feb. 6, her objections expressed at that time, and her stated support of Messelink’s position on Monday, Earl would appear to be a second negative vote if the issue is raised in the future. Given Turner’s and Kahler’s supporting position, the swing vote on the five-member board now appears to be Stoneburner. The five-member SBCSWA board is made up of one representative from its four constituent townships, Barry, Hope, Johnstown, and Prairieville with a rotating member from one of the townships. The rotating term of Turner, from Barry Township expires on March 31. He will be replaced by a representative from the Prairieville board, making the current matter of special urgency to the interests of Barry Township. “Barry Township meets in one week,” said Turner in suggesting that the agreement be revised for additional consideration, but Kahler seemed less optimistic. “This has got to be resolved sooner than that.” The Barry Township Board of Trustees meets on Tuesday, March 6. The next scheduled meeting of the SBCSWA board is Monday, March 26. Telephone calls requesting comments from Kahler and Stoneburner were not returned by press time. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 1, 2012 — Page 9 The following story was published in the May 8, 1913, Hastings Banner, labeled as “From our Irving correspondent.” Not long since while in the village of Parmelee, the writer called at the home of Daniel D. Brown to inquire after the health of the aged gentleman, who was sitting in an arm chair by the window in a calm and contented state of mind. For some time past, Mr. Brown has been unable to hear very distinctly but recently he sustained a fall in the house and could hear a little better than usual at the time of our call. The fact that Daniel Brown will be 95 years of age the fourth of July next sets him apart as being a man to whom long years of life have been granted. The last few years the old gentleman has lived in his present home and looked for maintenance from a pension from Uncle Sam, for services in the late Civil War. But this man has seen other days than these which were more stirring and filled with work, giving his attention to clearing up and getting new country ready for occupancy by future generations. Daniel D. Brown was born July 4, 1818, in the state of Vermont made famous by Ethan Allen and the Green Mountain Boys, who called upon the British to surrender their fort in the awe-inspiring summons. “In the name of Jehovah and the Continental Congress.” The birthplace of Mr. Brown was Bridgewater, Vt. He ran away from home at the age of 13, making his way across country to work on the Erie Canal, and served in the capacity of tow-boy along the canal for a period of three years. Leaving his work, he then pushed on west to Illinois and Iowa and we next find him at the age when most boys are in high school, carrying a long muzzle loading rifle as a hunter which was relieved from becoming monotonous by trapping. At the age of 22, he made his way back to the home of his father, whom he learned had remarried. Civilization soon palled upon this youth, and inducing his brother Nelson Brown to accompany him, he once more turned his attention to the west and they came to Michigan in the year 1840, three years after Michigan had become admitted as state into the union. He was again back in Vermont at the outbreak of the war with Mexico and enlisted at Clarendon, Vt., under Capt. Sobeski Parker in the 23rd Vermont militia. He saw fighting from Vera Cruz to the city of Old Mexico, where the war ended, and he claims he was left there without pay for his services. After the Mexican War, he resided in Michigan and enlisted with the 21st Michigan Volunteers and served until taken sick when he was given leave to return north and an honorable discharge. After he had recuperated and not having enough of the war as yet, he once more enlisted for service, this time in the 28th Michigan Volunteers, and saw service under Gen. Sherman in Georgia. In his campaign he received a broken shoulder, which caused him to receive a second honorable discharge. Brown remembers having seen Abraham Lincoln, also the fact that he had seen Brigham Young whom he thought had farm too many wives. He remembers having seen the head of the Mormons in Nauvoo, Ill. Brown said when he and his brother Nelson came to Michigan, his brother was immediately taken down with the fever and ague, but that it did not affect Brown until after he had been here for some time. It was not necessity that compelled him to leave the old farm house in the Green Mountain State, but a desire to see the west. He went to school but little and cared more for the free life out of doors than for books. His father was a well-to-do-farmer owning a section of land with a large number of horses, cattle and sheep. Mr. Brown says he had eight brothers and 10 sisters, so there was no danger of race suicide in those days especially in his father’s family. The present site of Parmelee was covered with forests of beech and maple trees when Mr. Brown first saw the country, with no paths but Indian trails to furnish means for NOTICE The minutes of the meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners held February 28, 2012, are available in the County Clerk’s Office at 220 W. State St., Hastings, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or www.barrycounty.org. 77566086 CITY OF HASTINGS NOTICE OF BOARD OF REVIEW 77566083 Notice is hereby given that the 2012 March Board of Review of the City of Hastings will meet in the Second Floor Conference Room at City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, for the purpose of reviewing, correcting, and equalizing the 2012 Assessment Roll. Taxpayers wishing to appeal the value assigned their property may appeal to the Board of Review in person (by appointment) or by letter. Taxpayers wishing to appeal in person, please telephone 945-6002 for an appointment. Letter appeals must be received no later than 5:00 PM, March 12, 2012. Organizational Meeting: Tuesday, March 6th • 9:00 AM Hearing Dates: Tuesday, March 13th • 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM Wednesday, March 14th • 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM Tentative factors for property assessments in the City of Hastings will be as follows: RATIO : FACTOR COMMERCIAL . . . . . . . 52.42 . . . . 0.9538 INDUSTRIAL. . . . . . . . . 49.09 . . . . 1.0185 RESIDENTIAL. . . . . . . . 54.15 . . . . 0.9234 PERSONAL . . . . . . . . . . 50.00 . . . . 1.0000 The City of Hastings will provide necessary reasonable aids and services for individuals with disabilities upon five days’ notice to the City Clerk. Individuals requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the City Clerk of the City of Hastings at (269) 945-2468 or by visiting City Hall at 201 East State Street, Hastings. Jackie Timmerman, City Assessor 77566027 CITY OF HASTINGS PUBLIC NOTICE ADOPTION OF MULTIPLE ORDINANCES The undersigned, being the duly qualified and acting Clerk of the City of Hastings, Michigan, does hereby certify that Ordinance Numbers: 468 469 470 471 472 473 474 475 476 477 478 479 480 481 482 Rezone Certain Parcels from AO to R2 Zoning District Rezone Certain Parcels from B2 to RS Zoning District Rezone Certain Parcels from AO to B1 Zoning District Allow Special Land Use for Building Height Exceptions Regulations for Vehicle Service and Gasoline Stations in the B1 Zoning District Amend Building Setback and Window Requirements in the B1 Zoning District Amend Section Numbers after Insertion of New Zoning Districts Amend A2 Zoning District and Eliminate the Neighborhood Edge Zoning District Add B3 (Downtown Edge) Zoning District Add B4 (West Business) Zoning District Add B5 (Mixed Use) Zoning District Rezone Certain Parcels from AO, B1, D1, and R2 to A2 Zoning District Rezone Certain Parcels from B1 and D1 to B3 Zoning District Rezone Certain Parcels from AO, R2, and B2 to B4 Zoning District Rezone Certain Parcels from AO to B5 Zoning District were adopted by the City Council of the City of Hastings at a regular meeting on the 27th of February 2012. A complete copy of these Ordinances is available for review at the office of the City Clerk at City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM until 5:00 PM. 77566149 Soldier, pioneer 94 years old lives in seclusion traveling. He says there were no roads or nothing but Indians and wild animals, to use his words. They lived principally upon venison and wild turkeys before the country was cleared up. In later days, they used to go clear to Kalamazoo to mill in order to have wheat ground up for flour. It was possible to draw a load of only 20 bushels over the poor roads of that day. He was once married to a young lady named Permina Covey to which union a daughter Lydia Elmira brown was born. She died and was buried at Ionia, at 22 years of age. He was married in the year of 1845, but only lived a few years with his wife before they separated. The aged man enjoys a friendly chat and is always glad to receive company in his little cottage at Parmelee situated just east of the Michigan Central Railroad right of way, and close to the depot. There was a feeling of sentiment in the mind of this aged gentleman, whose activities of life were performed in a time long since past. He used to, once in a while after talking upon things and scenes of other times thus getting his mind upon other days, invite his boy friend to come up into the garret, where he had an old leather-bound trunk stored away. The old man would find the key that locked upon this repository of cherished articles. As the old man would carefully take these relics out for inspection, he would tell the incident that related to each event in the years long ago. They were the things that he cherished since by their presence could be recalled what of romance and love he once knew. Not once but scores of times has he taken me up to the garret to muse over those old keepsakes. Among the collection was an old timepiece, some ladies brooches and locks of hair, all of which had their separate story and their own intrinsic value in his thoughts. He did not let everyone view this cherished collection. I never heard of anyone else who ever was permitted to view these mementoes of a past day. It used to be a pleasure for the writer to do errands for the old man and his way for repaying such favors was by a trip up to the secrets of the old leather-bound trunk. The hand of time has creased the countenance of this aged man, leaving many a furrow and wrinkle upon face and brow. His hair is snow white and hangs down in long locks that at the tips turn to a brown, just as old paper becomes colored with age. His eyes are sunken and lack the luster of former days. On shaking hands we notice the flesh is soft to the clasp as the hand of an infant. He can recall quite clearly things that transpired years and years ago, and several facts are stored away in his mind in sequence as to time and place; but he has no recollection of things of yesterday’s happenings. It is said that we are destined to be once a man and twice a child, which is here clearly shown. On making a call at the home of Daniel Brown recently in Parmelee, the old gentleman did not seem to recognize the guest. As soon as asked if he recollected the two maltese-cats that he once cared for and if he remembered of a boy who caused the cats to fight once upon a time which greatly incensed the old gentleman, he at once recognized the writer and loosed his thoughts in a happy recital of many things that happened years ago. (Brown died June 16, 1915, just weeks before he would have turned 96. He is buried at Parmelee Cemetery Thornapple Township.) Thomas E. Emery City Clerk WOODLAND TOWNSHIP BOARD OF REVIEW Woodland Township Board of Review will meet at the Woodland Township Hall, 156 S. Main St., Woodland, Michigan on March 6, 2012 to receive and review the assessment roll. Public meetings to hear assessment appeals will be held Monday, March 12, 2012 from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon and 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm; also on Tuesday, March 13, 2012 from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm and from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Appointments are not necessary but will be taken and given preference. For appointments call 269-367-4915 (office) or 269-367-4214 (home). Answering machine messages returned ASAP. The tentative ratios and the estimated multipliers for each class of real property for 2012 are as follows: Ratio Multiplier Agricultural 59.42 .8415 Commercial 62.55 .7994 Industrial 58.64 .8527 Residential 56.01 .8927 Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Supervisor 7 days prior to the meeting by writing or calling Dave Bursley, 156 S. Main St., Woodland, Michigan 48897; 269-367-4915 (office) or 269-367-4214 (home). 77565806 PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a public hearing concerning proposed amendments to the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance will be held on Wednesday, March 21, 2012, commencing at 7:00 p.m. at the Prairieville Township Hall, 10115 South Norris Road, within the Township. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the items to be considered at this public hearing include, in brief, the following: 1. The proposed amendment of Section 4.6 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to regulations governing intersection visibility and visibility from a driveway or other entrance or exit onto a public or private road. 2. The proposed amendment of Subsections B, C and D of Section 4.20 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to regulation of residential accessory buildings, including, but not limited to, regulations pertaining to front setback, rear setback and residential accessory buildings on an otherwise vacant lot or on a lot having only another accessory building. 3. The proposed amendment of Section 4.32 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to maximum height requirements for fences, walls, and other screening structures. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Township Zoning Ordinance and the proposed amendments thereto may be examined at the Prairieville Township Hall located at 10115 South Norris Road within the Township at any reasonable time from and after the first publication of this Notice until and including the time of public hearing and may be further examined at the public hearing. The Prairieville Township Planning Commission and Township Board reserve the right to make changes in the above-mentioned proposed amendments at or following the public hearing. All interested parties are invited to be present to participate in discussion on the matter. Prairieville Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed material being considered at the hearing, to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon five (5) days' notice to the Prairieville Township Clerk. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Prairieville Township Clerk at the address or telephone number listed below. PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION Jill Owens, Clerk Prairieville Township Hall 10115 South Norris Road Delton, MI 49046 (269) 623-2664 77566140 �Page 10 — Thursday, March 1, 2012 — The Hastings Banner County commission inks broadband contract by Doug VanderLaan Editor Barry County will soon be flying a bit higher after the county board dialed up a higher Internet bandwidth in an agreement approved Tuesday at the commission’s regular meeting. The contract signed with Lake Michigan Telephone Company of Delton, which does business under the more common name of Message Express Internet, or MEI, will primarily benefit the county sheriff’s department where MEI intends to locate a communications antenna on an existing radio tower. In exchange for the opportunity to expand its business, MEI will provide Barry County Call anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads 269-945-9554 with eight megabytes of high-speed Internet bandwidth during the first two years of the five-year agreement. During the final three years, MEI will increase the county’s service to 10 megabytes. Barry County currently contracts for six megabytes of high-speed bandwidth to cover Internet and data needs with TelNet Services. The additional eight megabytes will begin, according to Mark Graf of MEI, in approximately six to eight weeks. “The service area does not go very far,” said Graf, “because topography plays a big role, and we’re already in a low position.” In addition to servicing communications needs at the sheriff’s department, Graf indicated that some of the businesses running east along State Street to the courthouse also will be able to access the high-speed service. “We looked at all the items that were brought up at the [Jan. 17] committee of the whole meeting, and we believe we’ve addressed them all,” said County Administrator Michael Brown Tuesday. “We have a five-year contract and the opportunity to look at it again after four years.” The length of the contract had been one point of inquiry when the board met as a committee of the whole Jan. 17. Commissioner Dan Parker had raised questions about the Barry Township 2012/2013 Budget Public Hearing Notice The Barry Township Board will hold a Public Hearing on the proposed budget for fiscal year 2012-2013 at the Barry Township Hall on Tuesday, March 6, 2012 @ 6:30 p.m. The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget will be the subject of this hearing. A copy of the budget is available for public inspection at the Township office. The Barry Township Board will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting upon 7 days notice to the Barry Township Board. Note: individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Barry Township Board by writing or calling the following: Barry Township Board Phone: 269-623-5171 P.O. Box #705 Fax: 269-623-8171 Delton, MI 49046 email@ barrytownship@mei.net Respectfully, Debra J. Knight, Clerk 07593526 BOARD OF REVIEW MEETING SCHEDULE THE ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP BOARD OF REVIEW will be held at the Orangeville Township Hall, 7350 Lindsey Road, Plainwell, MI 49080 on the following dates. Tuesday, March 6, Organizational Meeting – 4:00 pm Monday, March 12, Appeal Hearing – 9:00 am to 12:00 noon and 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm Tuesday, March 13, Appeal Hearing – 1:30 pm to 4:30 pm and 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm The Board of Review will meet as many more days as deemed necessary to hear questions, protests and to equalize the 2012 assessments. By Board resolution, residents are able to protest by letter, provided protest letter is received by March 12, 2012. Written protests should be mailed to: BOARD OF REVIEW 7350 LINDSEY RD. PLAINWELL, MI 49080 The tentative ratios and the estimated multipliers for each class of real property and personal property for 2012 are as follows: 77566016 Agricultural . . . . . . . . . . . . 63.48% . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.7876 Commercial . . . . . . . . . . . 49.44% . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.0113 Industrial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55.53% . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.9004 Residential . . . . . . . . . . . . 50.07% . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.9986 Personal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50.00% . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.0000 (ADA) Americans with Disabilities Notice: Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Clerk at least seven (7) days in advance of hearing. This notice posted in Compliance with PA 267 of 1976 as amended (Open Meetings Act) MCLA41.72a (2)(3) and with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contacts – Clerk, Jennifer Goy, 269-664-4522; Supervisor, Thomas Rook, 616-299-6019 77566003 RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP NOTICE OF BOARD OF REVIEW The Board of Review will meet on Tuesday, March 6, 2012, at 9:00 AM, in the office of the Assessor at Rutland Charter Township Hall, 2461 Heath Road, Hastings, Michigan, to organize and review the Assessment Roll. NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING to hear Assessment APPEALS will be held at the RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP HALL, 2461 Heath Road, Hastings, Michigan on: MONDAY, MARCH 12, 2012 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012 9:00 AM to NOON 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM Also, any other days deemed necessary to equalize the Assessment Roll. CLASS Agriculture PROPERTY ASSESSMENT RATIOS & FACTORS FOR 2011 RATIO MULTIPLIER 45.10% 1.1086 Commercial 61.14% .6114 Industrial 67.74% .7381 Residential 55.18% .9061 Developmental -0- -0- Personal -0- -0– The above ratios and multipliers do not mean that every parcel will receive the same. If you have purchased property, it will be assessed at 50% of market value. If you have improved your property such as additions, new buildings, driveways, etc., this will also reflect in the value of your property. Upon request of any person who is assessed on said roll, or his agent, and upon sufficient cause being shown, the Board of Review will correct the assessment of such property and will, in their judgment, make the valuation thereof relatively just and equal. Dennis McKelvey, Assessor RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP 2461 Heath Road Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 948-2194 length of the originally proposed 10-year agreement, especially if additional bandwidth might become available or affordable in a shorter period of time. Commissioner Jeff VanNortwick had questioned the appropriateness of allowing MEI, a private company, the use of a publicly owned space, especially if the opportunity was not extended to other companies and the service had not been assigned a financial value. David Shinavier, information services manager for the county, had listed two primary advantages to the agreement: a doubling of existing broadband Internet services to the sheriff’s department and the opportunity to have in place two broadband service providers, TelNet and MEI. In the event that either provider has a lapse in service, Shinavier pointed out, the other provider could deliver backup protection. Commissioners approved the recommendation by an 8-0 vote Tuesday. In other business Tuesday, commissioners: • Received a report from Brown on legislation regarding the program previously known as revenue sharing. Now titled, economic vitality inclusion, the program will attach performance standards to a municipality’s efforts in three areas before awarding funds: accountability and transparency, employee compensation, and consolidation. Brown said the county exceeds current standards in the first two categories but will need to carefully address progress in the area of consolidation. Commissioners Parker and Robert Houtman urged that discussions begin soon on programs that have already received consolidation consideration, including the recently addressed program regarding facility use and the possibility of consolidating courts in the existing courts and law building. Commissioner Ben Geiger pointed out that the EVI program requires only that a plan to increase consolidation be submitted, that final decisions are not being required. • Approved a $20,000 amendment to its solid waste fund, allowing for the hiring of a consultant to assist with recycling planning. • Approved the appointment of Christine Hiar to a three-year term and Commissioner Ben Geiger to the remainder of a three-year term on the Southwest Michigan Substance Abuse Advisory Council. • Approved the appointment of Geoffrey Stevens to the remainder of a four-year term on the central dispatch board. • Approved the re-appointments of Rick Moore to the remainder of a three-year term and Regina Young and Anne Bush to new three-year terms and the appointments of L. Michael Snyder and Keith Murphy to threeyear terms on the Charlton Park Village and Museum Board. • Approved the appointment of Rebecca Neal to a one-year term on the Animal Control/Shelter Advisory Board. • Approved the appointment of Pamela Strode to a three-year term on the zoning board of appeals. • Heard an announcement from the Helping Hands Ministry of Barry County of a five-day bicycle touring event to be held June 29 to July 4 for the purpose of raising funds for and awareness of the intent to build a permanent shelter for the homeless. • Heard the announcement from Sheriff Dar Leaf of the annual spring shoot to be hosted by the Barry County Sheriff’s Posse April 14 at the Barry Conservation Club. The board meets next for a committee of the whole session Tuesday, March 6, in the commission meeting room of the Barry County Courthouse at 9 a.m. LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE TO BORROWER PURSUANT TO MCL 600.3205a(4) THIS FIRM MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. NOTICE is hereby provided to the Borrower(s) regarding the property located at 11280 Schreiner Road, Bellevue, MI 49021. State law requires that you receive the following notice: You have the right to request a meeting with the mortgage holder or mortgage servicer. Pursuant to MCL 600.3205a(1)(c), Ocwen Loan Servicing LLC has designated the Loan Modification Department of Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 at (248) 883-0157 as its agent to serve as the contact under MCL sections 600.3205a-3205c and has the authority to make agreements for a loan modification pursuant to MCL sections 600.3205b and 600.3205c. You may contact a housing counselor by visiting the Michigan State Housing Development Authority's website at http://www.michigan.gov/mshda or by calling 1-800A-SHELTER, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, year-round. If you request a meeting with the designated agent, foreclosure proceedings will not start until 90 days after the notice required by MCL 600.3205a was mailed to your last known address, subject to the provisions of MCL 600.3205b. If an agreement to modify the mortgage is reached and you abide by the terms of the agreement, the mortgage will not be foreclosed. You have the right to contact an attorney. If you do not have an attorney, the telephone number for the Michigan State Bar Lawyer Referral Service is (800) 968-0738. Notice given by: Randall S. Miller Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 248-883-0157 (Loan Modification Dept.) loanmods@rsmalaw.com Case No. 10OMI01328-3 Dated: March 1, 2012 (03-01) 77566188 Federal dollars need to stay here Last week, I introduced Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 28, which memorializes congress to fully fund the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams at Michigan State University. The fiscal year 2013 federal budget allocates $22 million to fund the FRIB. This amount is less than half of the agreed-upon $55 million needed to maintain this critically important scientific project on its schedule for completion of construction and the commencement the nation’s scientific research efforts. The FRIB will provide intense beams of rare isotopes – short-lived atomic nuclei not normally found on Earth – that will enable researchers to address leading-edge questions in nuclear structure and nuclear astrophysics. Such questions include: What is the origin of the elements we find in nature? Why do stars sometimes explode? How can we better model atomic nuclei and their interactions? What combinations of neutrons and protons can make an atomic nucleus? What are the new applications of isotopes that can better diagnose and cure disease? The facility is expected to bring $1 billion in economic activity and 400 jobs to Michigan, according to an analysis by the Anderson Economic Group. The current proposed federal budget also includes funding for an international thermonuclear experimental reactor. The U.S. Department of Energy is asking to send $150 million to the ITER fusion project in France for fiscal year 2013. This amount is nearly three times more than what is needed to maintain the FRIB. Clearly, American interests would be better served by fully funding projects within our borders, rather than sending money overseas. City council members question use of Tyden Park Several zoning ordinances changed by Julie Makarewicz Staff Writer Use of Tyden Park for community events raised considerable debate Monday evening at the Hastings City Council meeting, especially in light of road and bridge repair work that will likely impact access to the park. Three requests for use of Tyden Park were considered; two received approval. Barry County YMCA will be allowed to use Tyden Park soccer fields for adult co-ed soccer programs from April 24 through May 29 and the park volleyball courts for adult coed volleyball programs June 19 to July 31. The Stable Mates 4-H Club will be allowed to host a garage sale from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 21. The club has hosted fundraising events at the park the past two years. Their request was approved, after an initial vote to deny failed 5-4. A second vote to allow the fundraising event, passed 6-3. And the final request, one from Helping Hands Ministry of Barry County, was tabled to see if the organization could work with city staff and find a more suitable location for its event. Council member Brenda McNabb-Stange didn’t support either the 4-H sale or the Helping Hand ministry request. “I don’t think a garage sale in Tyden Park is an appropriate use. Charlton Park has garage sale days available, and it’s free to non-profit organizations. I think it would be more appropriate for the group to have their sale there instead,” said McNabb-Stange. “I view parks as a place for outdoor recreation, not garage sales,” she said. She added that with the bridge replacement on North Michigan Avenue and roadwork planned in other areas, she especially wants to be cautious about booking the park when it could be difficult getting in and out of the park entrance. Council members Don Bowers and David Jasperse agreed to limiting the park use and not allow the garage sale. Steve Jordan with Helping Hands Ministry of Barry County requested use of the park for a fundraising event June 30 to July 4. The event is a 91.5 bike-a-thon with the course traveling through Barry County and making stops at five different locations. At each location, bicyclists would stop and camp for one night. Tyden Park would be the starting and ending site. In addition, the park would be the site of a community-wide yard sale, craft vendors and live music. All events, Jordan said, are aimed at creating awareness of homelessness in the county and raising funds toward an eventual homeless or transitional center. Council members and city staff said there might be a better location for this event — either at Fish Hatchery Park or at the city park behind the incubator and next to the paved trail. In other business, the council approved several zoning ordinance recommendations that have been discussed and studied for more than 18 months by the city’s planning commission. “All this came about from the comprehen- sive planning,” said Jasperse. “The planning commission has been working hard on all this for a long time and I think the planning commission would like to thank you for your confidence in approving these.” Fifteen zoning-related ordinances were approved by the city council, including many zoning changes based on planning commission recommendations. Mayor Bob May said the changes really are a result of updating master planning and comprehensive planning. “It’s really a matter of house cleaning and updating our ordinances,” said May. Changes approved include: • Rezoning certain parcels from apartment/office zoning district to a residential zoning district. • Rezoning certain parcels from general business to suburban residential in the 300 block of North Broadway. • Rezoning certain parcels from apartment/office zoning to central business zoning on Broadway and West Mill streets. • Allowing special land use for building height exceptions in certain business and industrial zones. • Adding amendments to regulations for building and structure setback requirements for vehicle service and gas stations in the business zone. • Adding amendments to regulations regarding building setback requirements and window requirements in the business district. • Amending section numbers assigned to zoning regulations to provide for orderly progression of the code sequences. • Renaming the apartment zoning district as the apartment edge district and eliminate the neighborhood edge district. • Creating a downtown edge zoning district. • Creating a west business zoning district. • Creating a mixed-use zoning district. • Rezoning parcels from apartment/office, central business, industrial and residential to apartment edge district. • Rezoning parcels from central business district and industrial district to downtown edge district. • Rezoning parcels from apartment/office zoning district, residential zoning district and general business to west business zoning district. • Rezoning parcels from apartment/office to mixed use district. Council members learned that City Clerk Tom Emery has completed courses and exams to earn the designation of certified public finance officer. Since the inception of the Government Finance Officers Association’s certified public finance officer program, 478 individuals have earned the designation. Emery is currently one of only 15 public finance officers in Michigan to have these credentials. To earn the CPFO designation, candidates must demonstrate their knowledge of public finances by passing five examinations representing core functions, including governmental accounting, auditing and financial reporting; cash management and investments; debt management; operating and capital budgeting; pension and benefits, risk management and procurement. To maintain the designation, individuals must participate in 30 hours of continuing professional education each year. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 1, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Joseph D. Kurger and Jennifer S. Kruger, Husband and Wife to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Flagstar Bnak, FSB, its successors and assigns , Mortgagee, dated August 17, 2006 and recorded August 28, 2006 in Instrument # 1169177 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: Flagstar Bank, FSB, by assignment dated February 1, 2012 and recorded February 10, 2012in Instrument # 201202100001456 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Twenty-Six Thousand Six Hundred Thirty-Three Dollars and Fifteen Cents ($226,633.15) including interest 2.625% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on March 22, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land in the Northeast one-quarter of Section 26, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, described as follows: Beginning at a point on the North line of Section 26, distant South 89 degrees 31 minutes 41 seconds West 457.19 feet from the Northeast corner thereof; thence South 00 degrees 15 minutes 18 seconds West 991.60; thence South 89 degrees 31 minutes 59 seconds West 248.00 feet along the North line of the South 10 acres of the Northeast one-quarter of the Northeast one-quarter of Section 26; thence North 00 degrees 15 minutes 18 seconds East 991.58 feet to the North line of said Section 26; thence North 89 degrees 31 minutes 41 seconds East 248.00 feet to the place of beginning, Hasting Township, Barry County, Michigan. Commonly known as 3888 River Rd, Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 2/23/2012 Flagstar Bank, FSB, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-56331 (02-23)(03-15) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Richard L. Singer, a single man and Nicole J. Edwards, a single woman, as joint tenants in common, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated January 4, 2006 and recorded January 9, 2006 in Instrument Number 1158704, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Morgan Stanley ABS Capital I Inc. Trust 2006-HE3 by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Six Thousand One Hundred Ninety-One and 97/100 Dollars ($106,191.97) including interest at 7.39% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on MARCH 8, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Baltimore, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Township of Baltimore, County of Barry and State of Michigan: Beginning at the South 1/4 corner of Section 35, Town 2 North, Range 8 West; thence West 335 feet along the South line of said Section 35; thence North 163 feet parallel with the North and South 1/4 line of said Section 35; thence East, 252 feet, thence North 90 feet; thence East, 83 feet to said North and South 1/4 line; thence South 253 feet along said 1/4 line to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: February 9, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 306.4472 77565744 (02-09)(03-01) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by John L. Buffinga, an unmarried man, original mortgagor(s), to Comerica Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated August 18, 1992, and recorded on August 24, 1992 in Liber 552 on Page 607, and assigned by mesne assignments to Wells Fargo Bank, NA as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Twenty-Four Thousand Six Hundred FiftyThree and 47/100 Dollars ($24,653.47), including interest at 8.75% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 8, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at a point 1364.82 feet South of North 1/4 Post, Section 28, Town 1 North, Range 8 West, thence South 224.46 feet, thence West 400 feet, thence North 224.46 feet, thence East 400 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #392761F01 77565724 (02-09)(03-01) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by David Killgore and Karen Killgore, husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated June 1, 2007 and recorded June 4, 2007 in Instrument Number 1181301, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Federal National Mortgage Association ("FNMA") by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Three Thousand Ninety-Two and 83/100 Dollars ($93,092.83) including interest at 7% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on MARCH 15, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Rutland Charter, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the Township of Rutland, County of Barry, State of Michigan, is described as follows: A parcel of land located in the Northeast 1/4 of Section 11, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, described as follows: Beginning at a point on the center line of old M-37 which lies South 00 degrees 06 minutes 20 seconds East 433.26 feet and South 50 degrees 33 minutes 20 seconds East 1056.01 feet from the North 1/4 post of said Section 11; Thence South 39 degrees 26 minutes 40 seconds West 189.0 feet; Thence North 50 degrees 33 minutes 20 seconds West 217.69 feet; Thence North 32 degrees 19 minutes 08 seconds East 190.47 feet to the center of said highway; Thence South 50 degrees 33 minutes 20 seconds East 241.32 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: February 16, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 650.2340 77565840 (02-16)(03-08) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Brian Hannan, a single man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 18, 2005, and recorded on February 10, 2005 in instrument 1141308, and rerecorded on April 6, 2005 in instrument 1144424, and assigned by said Mortgagee to CitiMortgage, Inc. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Six Thousand Fifty-Seven and 51/100 Dollars ($86,057.51), including interest at 3.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 29, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The South of 1/2 of Lots 1 and 2, Block 19, Eastern Addition, according to the recorded plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 1, 2012 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #372178F01 77566130 (03-01)(03-22) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTENTION PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain Mortgage made between WALTER L. CHURCH and STEPHANIE S. CHURCH, husband and wife, whose address is 547 Meadow Lane, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagor, and ICNB MORTGAGE COMPANY LLC, a Michigan limited liability company, whose address is 302 West Main Street, Ionia, Michigan 48846, as Mortgagee, dated June 24, 2009, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on June 29, 2009, in Document No. 200906290006711, upon which Mortgage is claimed to be due at the date of this notice the sum of ONE HUNDRED THIRTY-FOUR THOUSAND FOUR HUNDRED EIGHTY-SIX AND 21/100 ($134,486.21) DOLLARS, and no suit or proceedings at law or equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said Mortgage, or any part thereof; NOW, THEREFORE, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said Mortgage, and pursuant to the statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on April 5, 2012, at 1:00 p.m., said Mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse, 220 West State Street in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, Michigan (that being the building where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held) of the premises described in said Mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due of said Mortgage, with interest thereon at 4.875% per annum, and all legal costs, expenses and charges, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sums which may be paid by the undersigned to protect its interest in the premises, which said premises are described as follows: Land situated in the Township of Hastings, County of Barry and State of Michigan, to-wit: Lot 28 of the Plat of Fairhaven, according to the Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 45, Barry County Records, EXCEPT the West 311 feet of the North 294.75 feet of Lot 28 of the Plat of Fairhaven; together with ingress and egress over certain property described in the deed recorded in Liber 372, Page 522, as modified by Quit Claim Deed recorded in Liber 641, Page 673; ALSO the East 20 feet of the West 311 feet of the North 294.75 feet of Lot 28 of the Plat of Fairhaven as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 45, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of such sale, unless Mortgagor provides notice that the property is agricultural in accordance with MCL 600.3240(17), in which case the redemption period shall be one (1) year, or unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be thirty (30) days from the date of such sale. If the property described in this Notice is sold at the foreclosure sale referred to above, the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the purchaser who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period in accordance with MCL 600.3278 or as otherwise provided by law. ICNB MORTGAGE COMPANY LLC Mortgagee Dated this 1st day of March, 2012. TIMOTHY L. CURTISS, Esq. Braun Kendrick Finkbeiner P.L.C. 304 East Broadway, Suite 206 Mt. Pleasant, Michigan 48858 77566151 989/775-7404 SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by JAMES W. SUTHERLAND, A SINGLE MAN, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns,, Mortgagee, dated April 12, 2005, and recorded on April 19, 2005, in Document No. 1145092, and assigned by said mortgagee to GMAC MORTGAGE, LLC SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO GMAC MORTGAGE CORPORATION, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ninety-Four Thousand Five Hundred Forty-Five Dollars and Forty-Six Cents ($194,545.46), including interest at 6.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on March 22, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: THE SOUTH 1320 FEET OF THE WEST 1 /2 OF THE EAST 1 /2 OF THE SOUTHWEST 1 /4 OF SECTION 14, TOWN 4 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST, EXCEPT THE WEST 230 FEET THEREOF. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. GMAC MORTGAGE, LLC SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO GMAC MORTGAGE CORPORATION Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 GMAC.008493 (0277566066 23)(03-15) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Marcie L. Tepper, A Single Woman, original mortgagor(s), to Argent Mortgage Company, LLC, Mortgagee, dated February 24, 2006, and recorded on March 2, 2006 in instrument 1160761, and assigned by mesne assignments to Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Argent Securities Inc., Asset-Backed Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2006-W4 as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Seven Thousand Three Hundred Fifty-Five and 56/100 Dollars ($107,355.56), including interest at 10.95% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 22, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel 1: Part of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 21, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, Thornapple Township, Barry County, Michigan described as: Commencing at the Northeast corner of said section, thence North 89 Degrees 47 Minutes 15 Seconds West 869.48 Feet along the North line of said section to the point of beginning, thence South 00 Degrees 16 Minutes 10 seconds West 920.00 Feet parallel with the West line of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of said section, thence North 89 Degrees 47 Minutes 15 Seconds West 234.74 Feet, thence North 00 Degrees 16 Minutes 10 Seconds East 920.00 Feet, thence South 89 Degrees 47 Minutes 15 Seconds East 234.74 Feet along the North line of said section to the point of beginning. Subject to Highway Right-of-Way for Finkbeiner Road over the North 33.0 Feet thereof. Parcel 2: Part of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of section 21, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, Thornapple Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Commencing at the Northeast coner of said section, thence North 89 Degrees 47 Minutes 15 Seconds West 1104.22 Feet along the North line of said Section to the point of beginning, thence South 00 Degrees 16 Minutes 20 Seconds West 920.00 Feet parallel with the West line of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of said section, thence North 89 Degrees 47 Minutes 15 Seconds West 234.74 Feet, thence North 00 Degrees 16 Minutes 10 Seconds East 920.00 Feet along the West line of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of said section, thence South 89 Degrees 47 Minutes 15 Seconds East 234.74 Feet along the North line of said section to the point of beginning. Subject to Highway Right-ofWay for Finkbeiner Road over the North 33.0 Feet thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 23, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #259898F03 77565931 (02-23)(03-15) NOTICE OF JUDICIAL FORECLOSURE SALE Andrew J. Thomas TROTT & TROTT, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy., Ste. 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE IF YOU ARE A BORROWER ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTENTION PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the circuit court at the request of the plaintiff. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest, as determined by the court. Barry County Circuit Court Case No. 10-618-CH NOTICE OF JUDICIAL SALE JUDICIAL SALE IN PURSUANCE and by virtue of a Judgment of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on the12th day of January, 2012, in a certain cause therein pending, wherein HSBC Mortgage Services, Inc., was the Plaintiff and Jeff Schantz was the defendant. The aforementioned judgment established a debt owing to plaintiff in the amount of $127,979.10, plus post-judgment interest at an annual rate of 8.125 % and other amounts recoverable pursuant to said judgment. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that in order to satisfy said judgment, in whole or in part, the property described below shall be sold at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, located at 220 W. State St., Hastings, Michigan (that being the building in which the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held) on Thursday the 29th of March, 2012 at 1 pm, local time. On said day at said time, the following described property located in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, shall be sold: The West 1/2 of Lots 1302 and 1303 of the City, Formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof. Tax Parcel ID: 08-55-201447-00 More commonly known as: 227 W South Street REDEMPTION PERIOD IS SIX MONTHS. Dated: February 9, 2012 Mark Sheldon Deputy Sheriff For more information please call 248-6422515. Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys for Plaintiff 31440 Northwestern Hwy., Ste. 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 File No. 329389L02 (02-09)(03-22) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Richard Frank and Abigail B. Frank, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Lend America, Mortgagee, dated July 31, 2009, and recorded on August 26, 2009 in instrument 200908260008726, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Loan Care, a division of FNF Servicing, Inc. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Two Thousand One Hundred Fifty-Three and 36/100 Dollars ($102,153.36), including interest at 5.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 22, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 7, Town 2 North, Range 10 West, described as: Commencing at the East 1/4 corner of said Section 7; thence North 89 degrees 18 minutes 00 seconds West 1320.51 feet, along the South line of the Northeast 1/4; thence North 00 degrees 15 minutes 08 seconds West 695.99 feet, along the East line of the West 1/2 of the Northeast 1/4, to the point of beginning; thence North 00 degrees 15 minutes 08 seconds West 370.00 feet; thence North 89 degrees 28 minutes 40 seconds West 269.45 feet; thence Southeasterly 81.56 feet, along a 151.83 foot radius curve to the right, the chord of which bears South 15 degrees 34 minutes 38 seconds East 80.56 feet; thence South 00 degrees 19 minutes 57 seconds East 292.53 feet; thence South 89 degrees 28 minutes 40 seconds East 247.75 feet, to the point of beginning. Subject to an together with an easement for ingress, egress and utilities as described below Description of a 66 foot wide Easement for Ingress, Egress and Utilities: that part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 7, Town 2 North, Range 10 West, described as: Commencing at the East 1/4 corner of said Section 7; thence North 89 degrees 18 minutes 00 seconds West 1320.51 feet, along the South line of the Northeast 1/4; thence North 00 degrees 15 minutes 08 seconds West 1318.97 feet, along the East line of the West 1/2 of the Northeast 1/4; thence North 89 degrees 28 minutes 40 seconds West 464.30 feet, along the North line of the Southwest 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of said Section to the point of beginning, and the centerline of said 56 foot wide strip of land; thence South 00 degrees 19 minutes 58 seconds East 24.45 feet; thence Southeasterly 141.58 feet, along a 150.0 foot radius curve to the left, the chord of which bears South 27 degrees 45 minutes 38 seconds East 135.38 feet; thence South 54 degrees 24 minutes 49 seconds East 111.13 feet; thence Southerly 143.31 feet, along a 151.83 foot radius curve to the right, the chord of which bears South 27 degrees 23 minutes 53 seconds East 138.05 feet; thence South 00 degrees 19 minutes 57 seconds East 404.65 feet, to reference point A and the point of ending of said 66 foot wide strip of land, also subject to and together with an easement for ingress, egress and utilities over a 60.0 foot radius turnaround, the radius point of which is the aforesaid reference point A The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 23, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #357226F02 77566030 (02-23)(03-15) �Page 12 — Thursday, March 1, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE TO CREDITORS Re: ELIZABETH REID BOEHM, LIVING TRUST. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent and settlor of the Elizabeth Reid Boehm Living Trust dated May 7, 1998, namely Elizabeth Reid Boehm, born January 16, 1932 who lived at 11275 Long Point Drive, Plainwell, Michigan 49080, died on April 23, 2011. There is no probate estate. Creditors of Elizabeth Reid Boehm are notified that all claims against her and/or the said Trust will be forever barred unless presented to Richard J. Boehm, Successor Trustee, of said Trust at 8989 Bever Road, Delton, Michigan 49046 within four months of the date of publication of this notice. Date: February 23, 2012 Richard J. Boehm Successor Trustee 8989 Bever Road Delton, MI 49046 Prepared by: George T. Perrett (P42751) Butler, Toweson & Payseno - PLLC 202 North Riverview Drive Parchment, MI 49004 77566120 269/349-7686 FORECLOSURE NOTICE RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES, P.C. MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. Mortgage Sale - Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by Jack E. Rider, A Single Man to Hamilton Mortgage Company, Mortgagee, dated October 27, 2004, and recorded on November 16, 2004, as Document Number: 1137301, Barry County Records, said mortgage was assigned to Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee, for Carrington Mortgage Loan Trust, Series 2005-NC1 Asset Backed Pass-Through Certificates by an Assignment of Mortgage which has been submitted to the Barry County Register of Deeds, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Seven Thousand Twenty and 57/100 ($77,020.57) including interest at the rate of 6.75000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the Circuit Court in said Barry County, where the premises to be sold or some part of them are situated, at 01:00 PM on March 29, 2012 Said premises are situated in the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 3, Block 6, H.J. Kenfield`s Addition to the City (formerly Village) of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 9. Commonly known as: 708 EAST WALNUT STREET If the property is eventually sold at foreclosure sale, the redemption period will be 6.00 months from the date of sale unless the property is abandoned or used for agricultural purposes. If the property is determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 and/or 600.3241a, the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of sale, or 15 days after statutory notice, whichever is later. If the property is presumed to be used for agricultural purposes prior to the date of the foreclosure sale pursuant to MCL 600.3240, the redemption period is 1 year. Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages are, if any, limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: March 1, 2012 Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee, for Carrington Mortgage Loan Trust, Series 2005-NC1 Asset Backed Pass-Through Certificates 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302, (248) 335-9200 Case No. 12MI00227-1 (0377566183 01)(03-22) SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by RYAN J. VANZANDT, A SINGLE MAN and AMY DEVON CLARK, A SINGLE WOMAN, to JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., Mortgagee, dated August 22, 2008, and recorded on August 27, 2008, in Document No. 20080827-0008608, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety Thousand Three Hundred Eighteen Dollars and Twenty-Five Cents ($90,318.25), including interest at 6.750% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on March 15, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: Commencing at the intersection of Thornapple Lake Highway and the East line of Section 25, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, for place of beginning, thence Southwesterly along the center of said highway 76 feet, thence Southeasterly at right angles to said highway 177 feet, thence Northeasterly at right angle 119 feet, thence Northwesterly 177 feet, more or less, to a point in the traveled center line of Thornapple Lake Highway 33 feet Northeasterly from the intersection of said section line with the West Section line of Section 30 of Castleton Township and being the East line of Section 25 of Hastings Township, thence Southwesterly along said traveled center line of Thornapple Lake Highway 33 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A. Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 JPMC.000094 (0277565955 16)(03-08) SHORT FORECLOSURE NOTICE (BARRY COUNTY) MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the terms and conditions of a certain Mortgage made by Frances L. Gross (deceased), dated April 14, 2010, and recorded on June 9, 2010, in Instrument Number 201006090005525, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said Mortgage is held by Generation Mortgage Company. The sum claimed to be due and owing on said Mortgage as of the date of this Notice is $67,887.13, interest accruing at 5.56% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage shall be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the Barry County Courthouse, 220 West State Street, Hastings, MI 49058, at 1:00pm on Thursday, March 15, 2012. The Mortgagee will apply the sales proceeds to the debt secured by the Mortgage as stated above, plus interest on the amount due at a rate of interest equal to 5.56% per annum; all legal costs and expenses, including attorneys fees allowed by law; and also any amount paid by the Mortgagee to protect its interest in the property. The properties to be sold at foreclosure are all that real estate situated in the Township of Irving, County of Barry, State of Michigan, described as follows: Tax Parcel ID No.: 08-08-023-006-30 Commonly known as: 4708 Buehler Rd., Hastings, MI 49058-9535 The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of sale pursuant to M.C.L. § 600.3240(7). February 13, 2012 GENERATION MORTGAGE COMPANY Kilpatrick & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Generation Mortgage Company 903 N. Opdyke Rd., Suite C Auburn Hills, MI 48326 (248) 377-0700 77565908 (02-16)(03-08) State News Roundup New state bill will streamline judgeships Gov. Rick Snyder has signed legislation to eliminate judgeships in certain areas to reflect changes in caseloads and population shifts. Following the recommendations put forward biennially by the State Court Administrative Office, the bills will eliminate judgeships in districts identified as having more judges than necessary. The judgeships will be eliminated only by attrition – when a current judge vacates office through retirement or death, voluntarily chooses not to seek re-election or is constitutionally ineligible for re-election due to age. The efficiencies are expected to save taxpayers more than $2 million annually. “We’re always working to make government as efficient and effective as possible,” Snyder said. “Realigning our judgeships to reflect factors such as population shifts ensures good customer service and fiscal accountability.” The bipartisan package includes eight bills impacting courts in Lansing and Flint, and in Shiawassee, Newaygo, Oceana, Van Buren, Alpena, Montmorency, Cheboygan, Lake, Mason, Kalamazoo, Presque Isle, Otsego, Menominee, Marquette and Midland counties. Visit www.legislature.mi.gov for more information on the bills. LEGAL NOTICES FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Casey S Wolfe, A Single Man and Shelley L Hendrick, A Single Woman to First Security Savings Bank FSB, Mortgagee, dated December 14, 1995 and recorded December 18, 1995 in Liber 647 Page 619 Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage was assigned through mesne assignments to: CitiMortgage, Inc., by assignment dated December 2, 2008 and recorded December 8, 2008 in Instrument # 200812080011636 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Forty-Four Thousand Eight Hundred Twenty-Seven Dollars and Eight Cents ($44,827.08) including interest 8.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on March 15, 2012 Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: North one half of Lots 4, 5, 6, Block 8 Eastern Addition; also South 10 feet Lot 3 and South 10 feet of West one half of Lot 2 Block 8 Eastern Addition City of Hastings. Commonly known as 413 S East Street, Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 2/16/2012 CitiMortgage, Inc., Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-55888 (0277565950 16)(03-08) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Richard Stafford and Kathy Stafford, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Kellogg Community Federal Credit Union, Mortgagee, dated January 15, 2010, and recorded on January 26, 2010 in instrument 201001260000759, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Four Thousand Two Hundred Nine and 77/100 Dollars ($124,209.77), including interest at 5.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 8, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 45, Fair Lake Park, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats, Page 77, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #393307F01 77565689 (02-09)(03-01) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by James Orns, an unmarried man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated October 29, 2008, and recorded on November 5, 2008 in instrument 200811050010765, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Flagstar Bank, FSB as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-One Thousand Five Hundred Ten and 49/100 Dollars ($121,510.49), including interest at 6.99% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 8, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Beginning at the South 1/4 post of Section 9, Town 1 North, Range 8 West; thence East parallel with the centerline of East Bristol Road, a distance of 179 feet; thence North at right angles for East Bristol Road 395 feet; thence West parallel with the centerline of East Bristol Road 220 feet; thence South to a point 41 feet West of the South 1/4 post of said Section 9, 395 feet; thence East 41 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #385076F01 77565749 (02-09)(03-01) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Allen R Childers and Felisha J Childers, his wife to Gehrke Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated July 23, 1998 and recorded August 13, 1998 in Instrument # 1016462 , and rerecorded on October 15, 1998 in Instrument # 1019485 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned through mesne assignments to: CitiMortgage, Inc, by assignment dated November 13, 2009 and recorded November 20, 2009 in Instrument # 200911200011349 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Eight Thousand Eight Hundred Ninety-Five Dollars and Ten Cents ($78,895.10) including interest 4% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on March 15, 2012 Said premises are situated in City of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Part of the Northwest one quarter, section 36, Town 3 North Range 7 West, village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, described as: beginning at a point on the North section line South 89 degrees 30 minutes 01 second West 758.00 Feet from the North one quarter corner of section 36, thence South 00 degrees 45 minutes 01 second West 199.11 Feet; thence North 89 degrees 10 minutes 54 seconds West 252.39 Feet to the centerline of Kellogg road; thence along the centerline of Kellogg road North 34 degrees 21 minutes 55 seconds East 235.53 Feet to the North line of section 36; thence along said section line North 89 degrees 30 minutes 01 second East 122.02 Feet to the point of beginning Commonly known as 424 Kellogg, Nashville MI 49073 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 2/16/2012 CitiMortgage, Inc, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-55765 (02-16)(03-08) Synopsis ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP BUDGET WORKSHOP February 20, 2012 Meeting called to order at 7:00. All board members present. Motion to allow price adjustment for transfer station. Motion to set next budget workshop for March 5, 2012. Motion to adjourn. Respectfully submitted, Jennifer Goy, Clerk 77566105 Attested to by Thomas Rook, Supervisor Case No. 10-274-CH CIRCUIT COURT SALE In pursuance and by virtue of a Judgment of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on September 16, 2011, U.S. Bank National Association ND in a certain cause therein pending, wherein U.S. Bank National Association ND was the Plaintiff and Robert J. Stauffer and Shannon J. Stauffer, husband and wife were the Defendants. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that I shall sell at public auction to the highest bidder, at public venue, at the at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI, that being the place of holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, on the 5th day of April, A.D., 2012, at 1:00:00 PM o’clock in the forenoon, Eastern Standard Time, the following described property, towit: All certain piece or parcel of land situated in the Village of Middleville, County of Barry and State of Michigan, described as follows: Situated in the Village of Middleville, County of Barry and State of Michigan: Lots 6, 7 and 8 of Block 59 of the Village of Middleville, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats on Page 27, City of Middleville, County of Barry, Michigan as recorded in Liber 1, Page 27 of Plats, Barry County Records and that parcel of land commencing at the Northwest corner of Lot 8, Block 59 in the plat of Village of Middleville, thence South 65.98 feet along the West line of said Lot 8; thence West 5.0 feet along the North line of Lot 11, Block 59; thence North 65.98 feet parallel to the West line of Lot 8; thence East 5 feet to the point of beginning. Commonly known as: 302 Cherry Street This property may be redeemed during the six months following the sale. Dated: February 16, 2012 Mark Sheldon Deputy Sheriff WELTMAN, WEINBERG & REIS CO., L.P.A. Stuart A. Best (P-40744) Attorney for Plaintiff 2155 Butterfield Drive Suite 200-S Troy, MI 48084/WWR#10032301 (02-16)(03-29) 77565846 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Robert L. Wood, a married man Sylvia J. Wood, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Independent Mortgage Company, Mortgagee, dated November 10, 2010, and recorded on November 22, 2010 in instrument 201011220010916, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Independent Bank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-Seven Thousand Eighty-Eight and 78/100 Dollars ($167,088.78), including interest at 4.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 8, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Assyria, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The East 1/2 of the West 1/2 of the West 1/2 of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 3, Town 1 North, Range 7 West, Assyria Township, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #395895F01 77565730 (02-09)(03-01) MDOT releases report on efficiencies and innovations The Michigan Department of Transportation Feb. 22 released a new report highlighting efficiencies and innovations, the latest in a series of performance measure documents the department has posted to a new “MDOT Performance” section of the MDOT website, www.michigan.gov/mdot. The new report details the $55 million in savings MDOT achieved in 2011 by undertaking actions to operate more efficiently and find every available dollar in a time when the department is challenged with limited financial resources to maintain the state’s aging transportation network. The report also details the $71 million in one-time cost-saving measures taken by MDOT in recent years, including $48.1 million saved by reducing staff by 15 percent and closing eight offices or facilities. Other steps taken to reduce operating costs, extend the life of projects or maximize efficiency include following best-value contracting methods, using pre-cast bridges for quicker construction, and incorporating carbon-fiber components to extend the life of bridges. Michigan retailers have solid expectations for 2012 sales Coming off a positive 2011 and good holiday season, Michigan retailers are looking for an even stronger 2012, according to a press release from Michigan Retailers Association President and CEO James P. Hallan. Ninety percent of retailers expect to increase annual sales, with most projecting increases of 5 percent or more, according to the latest Michigan Retail Index, a joint project of Michigan Retailers Association and the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago. “Michigan retailers are optimistic,” said Hallan. “They are looking at improvements in the economy and seeing that translate into better consumer spending and retail sales – a quarter of them believe their own sales will rise by double-digit percentages.” The industry’s overall sales performance increased in January, setting a course for what retailers hope will be continued improvement throughout the year. Nationally, the U.S. Commerce Department said sales rose by 0.4 percent in January, but 0.7 percent excluding autos — the largest gain since last March. LEGAL NOTICE SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by CHARLES C. FLANAGAN JR and JENNIFER C. FLANAGAN, HUSBAND AND WIFE, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated June 11, 2007, and recorded on June 26, 2007, in Document No. 1182207, and assigned by said mortgagee to FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eleven Thousand Eight Hundred Twenty-Five Dollars and Five Cents ($111,825.05), including interest at 5.250% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on March 29, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: THE NORTH 220 FEET OF THE SOUTH 880 FEET OF THE WEST 208 FEET OF THE NORTHEAST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 18, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 77566208 LBPS.001747 (03-01)(03-22) Call anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads 269-945-9554 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 1, 2012 — Page 13 LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Randy Kill, a single man and Jennifer Wooliever, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 19, 2003, and recorded on August 21, 2003 in instrument 1111566, and assigned by said Mortgagee to EverBank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Seven Thousand Nine Hundred Seventeen and 69/100 Dollars ($97,917.69), including interest at 5.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 15, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Baltimore, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Southwest corner of Section 4, Town 2 North, Range 8 West, Baltimore Township, Barry County, Michigan; running thence North 744 feet along the West line of Section 4; thence East 455.2 feet for the true place of beginning; thence North 176 feet parallel with said West line of Section 4,; thence East 344.4 feet, more or less, to the center of South Bedford Road (M-37); thence South 09 degrees 19 minutes East 178.35 feet along the center of Highway; thence West 372 feet, more or less, to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 16, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #394097F01 77565865 (02-16)(03-08) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Brian M. Schaefer, a Married Man and Sara M. Schaefer, His Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Independent Mortgage Co. Central MI, Mortgagee, dated March 15, 2004, and recorded on March 22, 2004 in instrument 1123968, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Independent Bank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety Thousand One Hundred Sixty-Eight and 07/100 Dollars ($90,168.07), including interest at 5.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 8, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 70 of Aben Johnsons Addition Number 2 to the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 4 of Plats, Page 2, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #385630F03 77565760 (02-09)(03-01) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Shanon Adams, A/K/A Shanon M. Adams, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated June 18, 2003, and recorded on July 23, 2003 in instrument 1109187, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Three Thousand Fifty-One and 66/100 Dollars ($63,051.66), including interest at 5.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 15, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Being Lot Number 6, Block 49, in Village of Middleville, as shown in the recorded plat/map thereof in Liber 1 of plats on Page 27 of Barry County records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 16, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #392400F01 77565826 (02-16)(03-08) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Rebecca E. Duff, a single woman, to Mainstreet Savings Bank, FSB, Mortgagee, dated January 3, 2003 and recorded January 9, 2003 in Instrument Number 1095136, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Three Thousand Six Hundred SeventyNine and 26/100 Dollars ($73,679.26) including interest at 6.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on MARCH 8, 2012. Said premises are located in the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 960 of the City, formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded Plat thereof in Liber A of Plats, on Page 1. City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: February 9, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 2683 File No. 362.8839 77565796 (02-09)(03-01) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Matthew Bourdo, a married man and Lucy Bourdo, as to her dower and homestead rights, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated March 14, 2005, and recorded on March 22, 2005 in instrument 1143017, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-Seven Thousand Eight Hundred Forty-One and 78/100 Dollars ($167,841.78), including interest at 5.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 29, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the North 1/4 Post of Section 20, Town 2 North, range 10 West, Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michgian, thence East 615.78; thence South 697.62 feet; thence North 60 degrees West 75.90 feet; thence North 59 degrees 06 minutes 53 seconds West 462.56 feet to the place of beginning of this description; thence South 29 degrees 53 minutes 44 seconds West 347.40 feet; thence North 58 degrees West 173.63 feet; thence North 35 degrees 25 minutes 19 seconds East 345.05 feet; thence South 59 degrees 06 minutes 53 seconds East 140.31 feet the placeof beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 1, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #241719F03 77566144 (03-01)(03-22) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Eric Johnson and Mary Johnson, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 28, 2006, and recorded on November 29, 2006 in instrument 1173221, and assigned by said Mortgagee to U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE TRUMAN FHA TRUST 2008-1 as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixteen Thousand Two Hundred Five and 18/100 Dollars ($116,205.18), including interest at 7% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 8, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Castleton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 4 Town 3 North, Range 7 West, Township of Castleton, Barry County, Michigan, thence South 176 feet for point of beginning, thence South 220 feet, thence East 1320 feet to the North-South 1/8 line of the Southeast 1/4; thence North 220 feet, thence West 1320 feet to the point of beginning. Except the East 610 feet The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #191965F04 77565736 (02-09)(03-01) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Matthew Bourdo, a married man and Lucy Bourdo, as to her dower and homestead rights, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated March 14, 2005, and recorded on March 22, 2005 in instrument 1143017, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-Seven Thousand Eight Hundred Forty-One and 78/100 Dollars ($167,841.78), including interest at 5.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 29, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the North 1/4 Post of Section 20, Town 2 North, range 10 West, Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michgian, thence East 615.78; thence South 697.62 feet; thence North 60 degrees West 75.90 feet; thence North 59 degrees 06 minutes 53 seconds West 462.56 feet to the place of beginning of this description; thence South 29 degrees 53 minutes 44 seconds West 347.40 feet; thence North 58 degrees West 173.63 feet; thence North 35 degrees 25 minutes 19 seconds East 345.05 feet; thence South 59 degrees 06 minutes 53 seconds East 140.31 feet the placeof beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 1, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #241719F03 77566135 (03-01)(03-22) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Curtis H. Conrad and LoQuisha M. Conrad, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Countrywide Home Loans, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 23, 2002, and recorded on August 28, 2002 in instrument 1086428, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fifty-Three Thousand Seven Hundred Fifty-Three and 58/100 Dollars ($153,753.58), including interest at 6.75% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 22, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 14, Town 4 North, Range 10 West; thence East 12 rods; thence South 16 rods; thence West 12 rods; thence North 16 rods to the point of beginning. excepting therefrom the South 5 feet thereof. Also a parcel of land commencing 12 rods East of the Northwest corner of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 14, Town 4 North, Range 10 West for the place of beginning; Thence East 8 rods; thence South 10 rods; thence West 8 rods; thence North 10 rods to the place of the beginning. Also a parcel of land commencing 54 rods West of the Northeast corner of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 14, Town 4 North, Range 10 West; thence South 10 rods; thence West 6 rods; thence North 10 rods; thence East 6 rods to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 23, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #379291F01 77566020 (02-23)(03-15) SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by AMON D. SMITH and KAYSIE SMITH, HUSBAND AND WIFE, to FIRST PLACE BANK, Mortgagee, dated December 21, 2006, and recorded on December 27, 2006, in Document No. 1174400, and assigned by said mortgagee to GMAC Mortgage, LLC successor by merger to GMAC Mortgage Corporation, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Forty-One Thousand Twenty-Seven Dollars and Fifty-Eight Cents ($141,027.58), including interest at 6.500% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on March 15, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: COMMENCING AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF SECTION 7, TOWN 1 NORTH, RANGE 7 WEST, ASSYRIA TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN; THENCE SOUTH 00 DEGREES 36 MINUTES 31 SECONDS EAST ALONG THE EAST LINE OF SAID SECTION 2386.71 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE CONTINUING SOUTH 00 DEGREES 36 MINUTES 31 SECONDS EAST ALONG SAID EAST LINE 220.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES 53 MINUTES 50 SECONDS WEST 777.71 FEET TO THE CENTERLINE OF CASE ROAD; THENCE 221.29 FEET ALONG SAID CENTERLINE AND THE ARC OF A CURVE TO THE RIGHT WHOSE RADIUS MEASURES 2000.00 FEET AND WHOSE CHORD BEARS NORTH 01 DEGREES 15 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST 220.05 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 89 DEGREES 53 MINUTES 50 SECONDS EAST 780.37 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. GMAC Mortgage, LLC successor by merger to GMAC Mortgage Corporation Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 GMAC.004320 (0277565960 16)(03-08) THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE Default having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made by RONALD L. VESTER and SHIRLEY M. VESTER, Husband and Wife, 441 E. Shore Drive, Battle Creek, Michigan 49017 to SMB MORTGAGE COMPANY n/k/a SOUTHERN MICHIGAN BANK & TRUST, 2 West Chicago Street, Coldwater, Michigan 49036 dated January 24, 2008 and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry and State of Michigan, on February 4, 2008 in Instrument No. 2008-204-0001017 of Mortgages, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date of this notice, for principal and interest the sum of Eighty-Six Thousand Three Hundred Fifty-Two and 87/100 ($86,352.87) Dollars and no proceedings having been instituted to recover the debt now remaining secured by said Mortgage, or any part thereof, where by the power of sale contained in said Mortgage has become operative; Now Therefore, Notice is Hereby Given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in said Mortgage and in pursuance of the statute in such case made and provided, the said Mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the premises therein described or so much thereof as may be necessary, at public auction, to the highest bidder, at Courthouse Bldg, Barry County Courthouse in the City of Hastings, and County of Barry, Michigan, that being the place of holding Circuit Court in and for said County, on March 15, 2012, at 1:00 p.m. in the afternoon of said day, and said premises will be sold to pay the amount as aforesaid then due on said Mortgage together with 6.6250% percent interest on the Mortgage, legal costs, Attorneys’ fees and also any taxes and insurance that said Mortgagee does pay on or prior to the date of said sale; which said premises are described as follows, to-wit: County of Barry, Township of Johnstown, State of Michigan, is described as follows: Lot 13 of Oak Park, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats on page 22. ALSO, beginning at a point on the East line of Cottage Road directly East of the Northeast corner of Lot 13 in the Plat of Oak Park; running thence Easterly 100 feet; thence Southerly parallel with said East line of said Cottage Road 50 feet; thence Westerly to a point in the East line of said Cottage Road 50 feet south of the Place of Beginning; thence Northerly on the East line of said Cottage Road to the place of beginning. Pursuant to MCL 600.3240, the last day to redeem the Sheriff's Deed will be September 15, 2012, however, if an Affidavit of Abandonment is filed with the Register of Deeds, the last day to redeem will be April 15, 2012, or until the time to provide the notice was required by MCL 600.3241a(c) expires, whichever is later. If said property is in fact sold at the above described foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the above listed Mortgagor will be responsible to the person who buys the property at the foreclosure sale or to Southern Michigan Bank & Trust Company for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 16, 2012 SOUTHERN MICHIGAN BANK & TRUST Mortgagee. DRESSER, DRESSER, HAAS & CAYWOOD, P.C. By: P. Joseph Haas, Jr. Attorney for SOUTHERN MICHIGAN BANK & TRUST Business Address 112 South Monroe Street 77565915 Sturgis, MI 49091 �Page 14 — Thursday, March 1, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lawmakers take plunge for Special Olympics Plunges, dips or jumps into icy water in the middle of winter are nothing new to some hardy Michigan residents, or to Michigan Special Olympics. Thursday, Feb. 23, the shivering shenanigans took a new twist when a pool was set up on the Capitol lawn and a challenge was issued to state lawmakers to brave the cold as a way to raise awareness and funds for Special Olympics. Some organizers decided the 37-degree air temperature wasn’t cold enough, so ice was added to the water before the public servants took the polar plunge. Barry County was well represented in the political pool. Lt. Gov. Brian Calley, who most recently represented Barry County before being tapped as the governor’s backup, sprung into the air and formed a cannonball before splashing into the water, clad in tennis shoes, sweatpants and a sleeveless T-shirt. State Sen. Rick Jones, R-Grand Ledge, who serves Barry, Eaton an Allegan counties, jumped in wearing his suit and tie. Jones is a board member of the Special Olympics Michigan Committee and has been a volunteer at the summer games for many years. A participant last year’s plunge for Special Olympics, he has spoken from experience over the past several weeks when urging fellow lawmakers join the local dive. State Rep. Michael Callton, R-Nashville, wearing shorts, ski goggles and a knit hat, played a tune on his harmonica as he landed in the icy liquid. Rep. Mike Callton participates in the first annual legislative Polar Plunge on the Capitol lawn. Callton, R-Nashville, plays a tune on the harmonica as he takes the plunge. The first-ever Legislative Polar Plunge on the Capitol lawn brought in $20,000. Lt. Gov. Brian Calley demonstrates perfect cannonball form as he jumps into a swimming pool in front of the state Capitol to help raise money for the Special Olympics. State Sen. Rick Jones, R-Grand Ledge, vaults into an ice-cold pool in front of the Capitol Thursday. PROPOSED WATER RATE INCREASE HEARING The Barry Township Board will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, March 6th, 2012 at 6:45 p.m. at the Barry Township Hall, located at 155 E. Orchard, Delton, MI, to consider the following proposed water base rate increases for the water system in Delton, Michigan. 1. That the Water Base Charge be increased for a 5/8” meter from $16.00 per month per Unit to $18.00 per month per Unit, effective April 1, 2012. 2. That the Water Base Charge be increased for a 1” meter from $25.50 per month per Unit to $28.50 per month per Unit, effective April 1, 2012. 3. That the Water Base Charge be increased for a 2” meter from $83.00 per month per Unit to $93.00 per month per Unit, effective April 1, 2012. 4. That the Water Base Charge be increased for a 4” meter from $260.00 per month per Unit to $291.20 per month per Unit, effective April 1, 2012. American with Disabilities (ADA) Notice The Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/hearing upon seven (7) days notice to Barry Township. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact Barry Township by writing or calling 623-5171. 77566057 TEACHER, continued from page 1 Teachers show their support for Carrie Roe, (center, holding daughter Lizzie) with lighted candles during the 2009 Hastings High School Winterfest. (File photo) cussions. They were truly two life-changing semesters.” The ways in which Roe went above and beyond her teaching role allowed her to impact the school community on an even greater scale. She was elected as an HEA association representative and vice president, she served as the English department chair, and was afforded the opportunity to indulge in some of her personal passions through her involvement in several musical theater productions. She was the assistant director from 1995 to 2001 and the director from 2002 to 2003, for such productions as “The Sound of Music,” “Crazy for You,” “Hello Dolly,” “Grease,” “Cinderella,” “Mame,” “Once Upon a Mattress” and “The King and I.” Staff and students alike recognized the high expectations she had not only for herself, but also for her colleagues and students. She encouraged everyone around her to be better people. When Roe was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer in 2007 while pregnant with her youngest child, Sylvia, Hastings High School showed their admiration for her. They honored her during their annual Winterfest celebration and chose Susan G. Komen for the Cure as the recipient of their charitable efforts. Roe and her family said they were grateful for the support they received in their time of need. Efforts made on behalf of the staff to continue that support over the remaining 4 1/2 years of Roe’s life made a significant impact on her ability to continue as an educator, a mother and a friend. “By letting us into her life that week, we learned to have hope and to not give up when things appear bleak,” said Hastings High School history teacher Mike Engle, who was the student council advisor that year. “Our Winterfest shirts from that year had the word ‘Hope’ on them with the following quote from Christopher Reeves: ‘When you choose hope, anything is possible.’ Since that year, anytime I see the shirt, I am reminded of her will, and it inspires me to press on. I have no doubt many of her former students still draw inspiration and strength from her every time they put on that shirt or are up against their own challenge ... she was a courageous woman and great educator who has left a long-lasting and meaningful footprint here at Hastings High School.” Roe continued to inspire everyone whose life she touched and because of it, throughout her battle against cancer, she received an outpouring of support from her students, co-workers, the Hastings community and beyond. Retired Hastings High School English language arts teacher Jeff Keller, who has coached Hastings football for many years, recalls just such an incident. “Carrie Roe’s courageous battle against breast cancer was widely known. As many know, Carrie was a strong supporter of Ohio State University athletics, especially the Buckeye football team,” he said. “A few years ago, Carrie received a hand-written note from then head coach, Jim Tressel, as well as other notes from his assistant football coaches. The notes recognized Carrie’s valiant, ongoing battle against cancer and the many different treatments Carrie endured. I remember seeing Carrie’s face when she received these notes of encouragement. Her smile was as big as the “O” on the Ohio State football field. These notes of hope became a treasured keepsake for Carrie during the last few years of her courageous battle.” “[Throughout it all, Carrie] remained positive and hopeful. Her attitude and spirit were an inspiration,” Hastings English and physical education teacher Wendi McCausey said. “She was a devoted friend and a good listener who was known for her quick wit and oneliners that made people laugh. This is the strong, confident woman I knew and the woman I will miss.” Hastings High School science teacher Marty Buehler said he appreciated Roe’s strength and humor. “I remember subbing for Carrie, and she surrounded her work station and classroom The Roe family is at the heart of the 2009 Hastings High School Winterfest. Each year, the school’s student council chooses an awareness issue and charitable organization to focus on during the week-long event. That year, Carrie Roe shared the story of her battle against breast cancer and helped the students raise awareness of the disease and funds for the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Pictured are (back row, from left) MIke, Sylvia, Carrie, (front) Lizzie and Alex Roe. (File photo) with inspirational quotes and sayings,” he said. “There was one on her computer that later I would always quote back to her at various times — like when she needed to be cheered up — and it would always make her laugh ... It was funny ... but it was also profound because that was how she lived her life. She was a strong person, no doubt about that. I respected her and I will miss her.” “Although she will be missed, the halls of Hastings High School will forever breathe her legacy. And painted on the walls of room B214 are reminders of not only her love of literature but the many lives she touched by being an inspirational teacher, a courageous warrior of cancer, a working mother of three children, a devoted wife and a faithful servant of God,” wrote friends and co-workers Greer Putnam and Jodi Darland. “One of the quotes painted in that room reads, ‘Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, ‘I will try again tomorrow.’ — Mary Anne Radmacher. “Carrie Roe taught Hastings High School to try again tomorrow, no matter how difficult that task may be. And forever they will embrace the impact that one teacher can have on an entire community,” they wrote. Monday, at the beginning of the regular February Hastings Board of Education meeting, Hastings High School Principal Tim Johnston asked the board, teachers, staff and members of the community present to observe a moment of silence in honor of Roe, who died early that day. “We lost a great educator and a true friend of education and Hastings Area Schools,” said Johnston. “She lived her life with dignity and fought her illness with dignity.” “We are grieving one of our own. Carrie Roe was a beloved teacher and colleague at Hastings High School and will be sorely missed,” said Hastings Area School interim superintendent Michelle Falcon. Carrie Beth (Smith) Roe was born Jan. 21, 1972. She graduated from Ludington High School and went on to Western Michigan University where she earned a bachelor of arts degree in social science and English, with a major in history and a minor in December 1994. She also graduated from Grand Valley State University in the summer of 2006 with a bachelor of arts, English emphasis and was awarded her master of education from GVSU in general education. Roe also received credit from Central Michigan University, and the University of Phoenix. Roe completed her pre-intern and intern teaching at Loy Norrix High School in Kalamazoo. Visitation for Roe will be from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, March 1, at the O’Brien Gerst Funeral Home, 3980 Cascade Road SE, Grand Rapids. The funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Friday, March 2, at St. Matthew Lutheran Church, 5125 Cascade Road, SE, Grand Rapids. Hastings High School will be closed Friday, March 2, to allow teachers, staff and students to attend the funeral. Hastings Middle School and all elementary schools will conduct classes as usual. Teachers Jodi Darland and Greer Putnam, contributed the majority of this tribute to their friend and colleague. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 1, 2012 — Page 15 Hastings Middle School students compete in Science Olympiad invitational The Coleman Agency in Hastings will host the Barry County Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours Thursday, March 8. Preparing for the event are (from left) Vicki Butler, Lindsey Wiltshire, Emily Bond, Valerie Byrnes, Michelle Duits and Tammy Daniels. Emily Pattok (left) and Riley Former win first place in Keep the Heat at the Allendale Middle School Science Olympiad Invitational Saturday. Noah Wilson and Riley Former make adjustments to their device before launching a ball in Storm the Castle. Coleman Agency to host next business after hours event The Barry County Chamber of Commerce will have its March business after hours event at the Coleman Agency in Hastings Thursday, March 8, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. The networking event offers an opportunity to learn more about the company and how their professional services can benefit a business or organization. The Coleman Insurance Agency services Barry County including the areas of Hastings, Middleville, Delton, Nashville, Woodland and surrounding areas, specializing in auto, home, farm, life and commercial insurance from its office at 312 E. Court St. “The chamber’s business after hours events continue to be the premier opportunity to network with local business owners and community leaders with an emphasis on making new business contacts and encouraging future business connectivity,” said Valerie Byrnes, chamber president. “Creating a social envi- BOWLING SCORES Caroline Garrison and Justin Carlson earn bronze medals in the meteorology competition. Saturday, 30 Hastings Middle School students participated in their first Science Olympiad Invitational of the year at Allendale Middle School. This event kicked of the 2012 season for the team. “All students did a fantastic job represent- Joel Shinavier and Becky Maurer test the strength of a lightweight tower. ing Hastings Middle School,” said coach Ann Beemer. “Several students came home with ASSYRIA TOWNSHIP RESIDENTS On Friday, March 30, 2012 at 7:30 pm, Assyria Township will be conducting the following meetings at the Assyria Township Hall on 8094 Tasker Road, Bellevue, MI Budget Hearing. A copy of the budget may be obtained by contacting the Clerk at 269-758-4003 and will also be available at the meeting. Annual Meeting for Assyria Township will be held immediately following the Budget Hearing Regular Meeting will be held following the Annual Meeting. This meeting will be held to approved the Fiscal Year 2013 budget and will be in lieu of the regularly scheduled meeting that would normally be held on April 2, 2012. There will be no meeting on April 2, 2012. Debbie Massimino 77566196 Assyria Township Clerk medals and ribbons.” Caroline Garrison and Justin Carlson brought home a third place medal in the meteorology event. The two had to answer various questions about meteorology in a written test format. Aaron Denny and Matthew Maurer won third place in optics. In this event, teams of two created a path of mirrors used to reflect a laser beam to a target. They also took a test answering questions about geometric and physical optics. Earning a first place gold medal were Riley Former and Emily Pattok in a contest called Keep the Heat. Riley and Emily constructed a box that helped retain heat in a beaker of water. They, too, had to answer questions about thermodynamics. The middle school team will compete in regional competition later this month at Western Michigan University. First and second place winners of that competition will be invited to the state competition at Michigan State University. Due to funding from the Hastings Education Enrichment Foundation, local middle school students are able to participate in Science Olympiad at no cost. “Science Olympiad is a great opportunity for students to further their understanding and appreciation for science,” said Beemer. Assyria Township Board of Review NOTICE OF MEETING The Assyria Township Board of Review will meet at the Township hall on the following dates to hear protests: 9am – 12pm and 2pm – 6pm 6pm – 9pm 6pm – 9pm The Board of Review will also meet Tuesday, March 20, 2012 at 6pm to complete Board of Review business. The tentative ratios and estimated multiplier sor each class of real property for 2012 are as follows: Ratio Multiplier Agricultural 53.00% .9433 Commercial 52.81% .9467 Industrial 48.50% 1.0309 Residential 50.89% .9825 Individuals with disabilities requesting assistance should place their request to Debbie Massimino, Assyria Township Clerk 269-758-4003. 77566199 Tuesday Night Mixed Boyce Milk Haulers 71-33; Hurless Machine Shop 64.5-39.5; Hometown Lumber 61.5-42.5; Barry County Red Cross 56.5-47.5; J-Bar Antique Tractors 37-67; Dirt Broke 21.5-82.5. Men’s Good Games and Series - D. Benner 232-618; D. Blakely 193-538; K. Beebe 189-536; G. Hause 182; S. Hause 172; A. Dundas 152-389. Women’s Good Games and Series - B. Wilkins 232-620; S. Beebe 182-474; A. Nicholson 174-452; F. Smith 173; D. Service 162; R. Gross 145-421. Tuesday Trios Rollarama 72-32; CB’s 66-38; Shirlee’s Team 60.5-43.5; Look Insurance 59-45; Blair Landscaping 54-46; Team Turkey 50-54; Twisted Sisters 48-52; Classic 3 45-59; Trouble 42-62; Coleman Agency 42-55; Ghost Team 13.5-90.5. High game and series - R. Brummel 177; P. Ramey 185; S. Vandenberg 201-514; K. Henney 160; S. Madry 145; A. Trumble 150; S. Smith 205-451; S. Cross 156; N. Shaw 159; B. Stacy 158; B. Innes 179-502; D. Clark 132; K. Carpenter 171; L. Potter 201-529. Monday Mixerettes Kent Oil 57.5-42.5; NBT 53.5-46.5; Dean’s Dolls 52.5-47.5; Nashville Chiropractic 50.549.5; Dewey’s Auto Body 45-51; James Process Service 37-59. Good games and series - P. Fowler 166; J. Alflen 222-563; J. Rice 189-535; L. Elliston 181-522; M. Rodgers 176-462; K. Eberly 191-536; D. Snyder 180; D. James 178-509; D. Worm 164; B. Hathaway 172. Senior Citizens Butterfingers 60-40; Just Having Fun 59.5-40.5; Kuempel 51-49; M&M’s 51-49; Three Gals and a Guy 50-50; Usedtobe #1 50-50; King Pins 49-51; Sun Risers 46.5-53.5; Early Risers 45-55; Ward’s Friends 38-62. Good games and series women - C. Stuart 182; R. Murphy 167-460; S. Patch 182; R. Pitts 165-445. The Assyria Township Board of Review will meet at the Township Hall, 8060 Tasker Road, Bellevue, Michigan on Tuesday, March 6, 2012 at 7pm to receive the Tax Rolls. Monday, March 12, 2012 Tuesday, March 13, 2012 Thursday, March 15, 2012 ronment in a business setting allows for an easy-going yet productive connectivity among businesses and community members.” Attendees of the Business After Hours Event at the Coleman Agency will be entered in a drawing for door prizes including $25 in Chamber Barry Bucks, which can be spent at any of more than 150 Chamber member businesses throughout the county. RSVP to Stacy Anderson at 269-945-2454 or email stacy@mibarry.com to attend the event at Coleman Agency March 8. The Barry County Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours Events are the second Thursday of every month from 4:30 to 6 p.m. The April event will be April 12 at Commercial Bank’s new facility in Hastings. For a schedule of future events, visit the Chamber’s website, www.mibarry.com/tourism/calendar. Justin Carlson (left), filling in for Aaron Denny, joins Matthew Maurer in accepting medals in the optics event. Denny and Maurer took third place. Call anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads 269-945-9554 Good games and series men - G. Forbey 164-458; B. Terry 213-565; H. Gibson 156; G. Waggoner 189; D. Dimmers 217-593; L. Markley 167; D. Murphy 147-383; W. Mallekoote 167-478; C. Purdu Sr. 215-578; J. Grassmyer 190; P. Gasper 217. Wednesday P.M. Mills Landing 68-32; Four Pals 60.5-39.5; The River 57-43; Eye & ENT 51-49; Hair Care 50.5-45.5*. * Games to be made up. Good games and series - A. Tasker 172422; P. Shellington 147-423; G. Scobey 182; S. Beebe 180-477; K. Moore 141-361; R. Pitts 147-400; P. Fowler 161-430; N. Potter 169475. Sunday Night Mixed You’re Up N Shit 62; Eastsiders 57; Street Bowlers 50; Sandbaggers 49 1/2; Straightliners 49; Sunday Snoozers 45; Rollin Olins 43 1/2. Womens good games and series - B. Rice 225-569; J. Rice 166-481; A. Hubbell 164469; K. Plett 130-364; S. Vandenburg 204; M. Olin 174; J. Healy 146. Mens good games and series - B. Rentz 217-621; D. McKee 201-555; T. Demott 202471; B. Heath 173-445; S. Jewell 145-420; M. Strong 154-412. Saturday Majors (Youth League) Strikers 46-26; Leones 44-28; Hastings Bowl 36.5-35.5; Zombies 35-37; Whatever 32-40; Great Balls of Fire 22.5-49.5. Girls good games and series - C. Wright 105; S. Roush 137. Boys good games and series - T. Cheeseman 125; J. Johnson 144; K. Kavanagh 146-366; K. Kenyon 134-372; W. Arnold 177. NOTICE OF INVITATION TO BID ASSYRIA TOWNSHIP SEXTON The Township of Assyria, Barry County Michigan has four cemeteries. Terms and conditions for this bid are available in the “Cemetery” section of the Assyria Township website www.assyriatwp.org Assyria Township invites interested parties to submit proposals to the Assyria Township Supervisor at 7415 Wolf Road, Bellevue, MI 49021. Proposals must be received by the Supervisor no later than 5pm Friday, April 27, 2012. 77566190 �Page 16 — Thursday, March 1, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Passenger fatally injured in traffic accident Michigan State troopers investigated a fatal accident involving a semi-truck and a sport utility vehicle Friday, Feb. 24, on South M37 near Hickory Road, in Johnstown Township. Troopers responded to the crash at approximately 4:28 a.m. Initial investigation revealed that the driver of the southbound SUV lost control of the vehicle on the snow-covered highway and crossed into the northbound lane. A northbound semi-truck then struck the SUV in the passenger side. As a result of the crash, the 22-year-old passenger, Kody Stalzer of Grand Rapids, was fatally injured and pronounced dead at the scene. Both drivers sustained minor injuries. The driver of the SUV was arrested on a charge of driving while his license was suspended, causing death. Troopers were assisted on the scene by personnel from the Johnstown Township Fire Department, Barry County Sheriff’s Department, Life Care Ambulance and the Michigan Department of Transportation. COURT NEWS James Arthur Dietzel, 33, of Nashville was sentenced for fleeing an officer, third degree. Dietzel was ordered Feb. 23 to serve 12 months in jail, with credit for 65 days served. He must pay $1,448 in costs and serve 36 months on probation. Dietzel must attend cognitive behavior therapy while in jail, attend Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, and participate in drug court. Two months of jail was suspended. Ronald Todd Young was sentenced Feb. 22 for operating under the influence of liquor. Young, 50, of Plainwell, was ordered to serve 90 days in jail, with credit for two days served. He must pay $1,198, serve 24 months of probation, provide 40 hours of community service and attend Alcoholics Anonymous meetings. Beginning April 1, he must pay $80 a week toward costs. Seventy days of his jail sentence was suspended, and a charge of reckless driving was dropped. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 For Sale National Ads Help Wanted AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is deceptive, fraudulent or might otherwise violate law or accepted standards of taste. However, this publication does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the quality of goods or services advertised. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made in any advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you ask for money in advance of delivery of goods or services advertised. 35 DRIVER TRAINEES NEEDED NOW! Become a driver for Werner Enterprises! Earn $750 per week?! No experience needed! Local CDL Training! Job Ready in 15 days 1-877-649-2697 CENTRAL CLASSIC OUTDOOR FURNACES- Buy NOW & save up to $1,145. Call SOS your “Stocking Dealer” Dutton, MI 616-5548669- or 616-915-5061 Estate Sale ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. Recreation Business Services WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are interested in leasing acreage for this years deer season. Call (269)795-3049 BOOKKEEPING SERVICES Personal * Self-Employed * Small Business Payroll * Billing Accounts Receivable * Accounts Payable General Ledger Weekly * Monthly * Quarterly * Annually Call today! (269)420-5714 I DO CHAIR caning and splining. (616)642-6582 Help Wanted PART-TIME POSITION: office/marketing assistant: Computer/software/keyboard/customer service skills and experience: Attention to detail: letter and resume to: mffestival@sbcglobel.net \ REACH THOUSANDS OF AREA HOMES with an ad in the Hastings Banner. Call (269) 945-9554 to place your ad. OFFICE CLEANING: GENERAL office cleaning needed for an industrial shop in Hastings. Approximately 3-4 hours one evening per week. Please send qualifications and pay requirements to Mick Suter, 1029 Enterprise Drive, Hastings, MI 49058 or email to: admin@jmjinc.org YOU WANT QUALITY at affordable prices when you buy printing. Call J-Ad Graphics for everything from business cards and brochures to newspapers and catalogs. Phone (269)945-9554 or stop in at 1351 N. M-43 Hwy., Hastings. PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 Reporting History for the Future in 6 Barry County Area Newspapers • Lakewood News • Maple Valley News • Middleville-Caledonia Sun & News • Reminder • Hastings Banner Over 64,000 Papers Distributed Every Week! 1351 N. M-43 Highway • P.O. Box 188 Hastings, MI 49058 Phone (269) 945-9554 • Fax (269) 945-5192 Continued from previous column POLICE BEAT Lotto scam hits Nashville A Nashville woman reported a suspicious situation to Barry County Deputies Feb. 27 regarding a letter and check she received by mail. The letter stated she was the winner of $560,000. She told deputies when she called the number in the letter, the person told her to deposit the check, totaling $4,850, wait until the check cleared and then call the person back. The letter was from Lotto Max with a gaming license No. 10730 and telephone numbers 778-858-5083 and 778-7070715 out of Toronto. The check was issued by the State Employees Credit Union of Lumberton, N.C. Deputies took the report and provided the woman with a government complaint website, www.IC3.gov. The case is closed due to the international nature of the complaint. Same story results in another ticket A Hastings Police Officer patrolling East Apple Street Feb. 21 stopped a vehicle for having an expired registration plate. The driver, a 20-year-old Hastings man, said he had obtained the truck from his father’s estate and he was aware the license plate had expired February of 2011. The officer determined the man’s driver’s license had been suspended due to not paying a citation received earlier. An arrest warrant had been issued for the same unpaid citation. The man was taken into custody without further incident. He was issued another citation for the expired registration plate. The truck was turned driven away by the passenger. Mother drops off her kids, and drinks Hastings officers were dispatched Feb. 21 regarding an assault in progress at Green Street and Michigan Avenue. The caller said he had been chased down the street by a male acquaintance and physically assaulted. Minutes prior to the assault, the two had argued about the suspect’s wife. According to the victim, the man’s wife had abruptly dropped off her children at his home, indicating her husband would pick them up later. When others at the home of the victim said they had never met the husband, the woman still left the children. Investigating officers took the alleged victim’s statement and spoke with the mother of the children via cell phone. After the mother refused to return to the home insisting that her husband would be picking up the children, officers became increasingly concerned about the children’s welfare. Child Protective Services was contacted. Minutes after CPS had been called, the mother returned. Officers said it was apparent that the mother had been consuming intoxicants. The investigation is continuing with the assistance of CPS. Car bought on eBay never pulls in A Hastings resident reported to police Feb. 24 that she had agreed to purchase a car on the Internet auction site eBay. The car price was reported to be $2,320 with additional shipping charges of $1,500 from Maryland to Michigan. The seller was reportedly shipping the vehicle from Fort Belvoir, Md., a military base. According to the complainant, the seller has not delivered any vehicle as promised. A phone call to the military base revealed they have received numerous similar inquiry calls. The military base informed callers it does not ship civilian vehicles. The investigation continues. Woman’s future is no longer bright Hastings officers were called Feb. 25 to the Rx Optical Store on West State Street. According to store staff, two young women entered the store around 2 p.m. After the women left, staff noticed a pair of $200 sunglasses missing. A check of the area revealed the tag from the glasses was in pieces throughout the store. An employee had recognized one of the women, who was contacted and said she had told her friend to return the glasses. Officers were told the suspect was on her way back to the store to return the glasses. She admitted to taking the glasses and apologized. A report has been sent to the prosecutor’s office for possible criminal charges. Hastings man lacks lights and license Deputies stopped a 28-year-old driver Jan. 29 at the intersection of M-43 and Tanner Lake Road in Hastings due to an unlighted license plate on his vehicle. The driver, who could produce no identification, was asked to exit the vehicle. After a search, three empty vials were found on the driver, which he identified has having once contained the chemical known as bath salts. The man told the deputy it had been several days since he had used the substance. He then told the deputy to take the vials since he didn’t want them anymore. The man was cited for not having a driver’s license with him or proof of insurance and was given a written warning regarding the unlighted license plate. The case is closed and the three vials were destroyed at the sheriff’s department. Caregiver learns medical marijuana permit has limits Sheriff deputies and Barry Township officers attempted to serve several outstanding warrants at a Delton residence Feb. 15. Arriving at the Bass Point Drive home, officers noticed lights on inside, but no one answered the door. Officers walked the perimeter of the residence and saw lights on the second floor and in the basement. They reported a strong odor of fresh marijuana coming from the home. A deputy noticed the silhouette of a marijuana plant in an upstairs window and numerous marijuana plants in basement windows. Medical marijuana certification could not be verified, and a search warrant was issued. While the search warrant was being processed, a neighbor provided officers with the name of the homeowner. The 43year-old owner was contacted and said the person officers were seeking in regard to the warrants had moved to Florida. The owner said he lived in the house alone, but was presently in Cadillac. The man told the deputy he is a medical marijuana caregiver and has four patients, plus himself. He faxed his caregiver cards to the deputy. He said one of his patients was taking care of the house, his dogs and the marijuana plants, which, according to the deputy, is a violation of the Michigan Medical Marijuana Law. Also, a patient can only have access to 12 live plants. The residence, according to the deputy, clearly had more than 60 plants, or 12 plants per person. The man was told a search warrant was being issued and asked how many plants were in the house. He said 60 plants or less. The search warrant was executed on the same day. Animal Control helped to secure two dogs on the property. After entering the residence, officers reported and seized 70 mature plants, six unweighed units of hash, 46 ounces of dried processed marijuana, 92 750-miligram hydrocodone pills, along with numerous growing materials and equipment. The report has been forwarded to the prosecutor. Driver delivers threats with a baseball bat A man reported being tailgated Feb. 18 while eastbound on Gun Lake Road near Otis Lake Road. The man told deputies he slowed down and the suspect vehicle, with its two occupants, passed his car and made an obscene gesture. The suspect vehicle stopped at M-179 and Gun Lake Road. As the complainant’s vehicle approached, a man exited the suspect vehicle and threatened the complainant with a baseball bat. Words were exchanged, but nobody was injured. The suspect, a white male with red hair, in his mid-20s, was driving a latemodel greenish Nissan pickup truck with metal tool box. No license plate information was available. Thief makes off with radiator Deputies were contacted Feb. 19 regarding theft of a radiator from a truck. The caller said he had a 1977 Loadstar dump truck parked about 200 yards off the road on his property. He said it was secluded spot on South Charlton Park Road. Driving past the vehicle, he said he noticed something shiny underneath the truck, and discovered that the radiator had reportedly been removed from the vehicle. He said the radiator was made completely of copper and could be scrapped for about $400. He did not know when the theft had occurred, and there is no suspect information. Domestic assault call uncovers outstanding warrant Hastings officers were dispatched to the 300 block of West Woodlawn Avenue Feb. 27 shortly after 6 p.m. for a reported domestic assault that had occurred minutes earlier. Officers made contact with the alleged vic- Continued in next column tim, a 21-year-old Hastings woman, who said she and her boyfriend, 22, had been arguing about who would watch their child, during a doctor appointment. The victim claimed to have been assaulted on at least two occasions during the argument. The boyfriend then left on foot. Another Hastings officer located the suspect, who was subsequently arrested on an outstanding warrant out of Kalamazoo for driving while his license was suspended. While at the jail, the suspect was questioned about the argument and alleged assault. The suspect said they had been arguing did not admit to assaulting the victim. Due to physical injuries observed on the woman, the boyfriend was also charged with domestic assault. The case has been sent to the prosecutors office for review. Dozens of cows die in barn blaze Lockshore Farms near Hickory Corners lost more than 60 of their 150 dairy cows and a barn in a fire Tuesday, Feb. 27. Firefighters from Prairieville, Delton, Orangeville, Hickory Corners, as well as four units from outside the county responded to the blaze. Reportedly, weather conditions made fighting the fire difficult, and most of the structure was lost as firefighters battled for hours to gain control. Heavy equipment was used to move barn contents such as hay and straw. The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Tobacco shop owner arrested on several warrants Kendall Leonard, owner of the Smokey Mountain Tobacco Shop in Hastings, was arrested earlier this month on several warrants out of the Hastings City Police Department. Leonard, 50, seemed disoriented when asked to produce a driver’s license after being pulled over by a Barry County Sheriff’s deputy on North Avenue near Woods Road Feb. 9. He was asked for insurance and registration, but, according to the sheriff’s department, was having difficulty producing those documents also. The deputy asked Leonard his name and birth date, and upon entering the driver’s information, learned the man was wanted on a four-count felony warrant and another two-count warrant. Leonard was asked to step out of his vehicle and was searched for weapons. None were found, but he was carrying two small blue plastic containers. Reportedly, Leonard was extremely nervous and emotional en route to the Barry County Jail. A third blue plastic container and three plastic crack pipes were found in the back of the patrol car after Leonard exited. The deputy asked Leonard if he had anything else on his person and told Leonard that once inside the jail, things would be taken to a higher level. Leonard denied having anything else on his person and was taken to the booking area. He was turned over to a corrections officer while the deputy left the room to photograph the rear of the patrol car and gather evidence. When the deputy returned to the booking area, he reported that Leonard’s shoes and socks were covered with a white powdery substance. More evidence was gathered. According to Hastings Police Chief Jerry Sarver, the prior warrants stemmed from a lengthy investigation after a traffic stop in October of 2011, including possession of cocaine; possession of MDPV, also known as bath salts; and delivery and manufacturing of controlled substance. Later that same month, Hastings officers initiated another traffic stop during which Leonard was again found to be in possession of suspected cocaine; JWH, also known as Spice; possession of marijuana; and possession of methamphetamine. Leonard is scheduled for pre-examination in Barry County District Court March 7. Keep your friends and relatives INFORMED! Send them The BANNER To subscribe, call us at... 269-945-9554 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 1, 2012 — Page 17 TK/Hastings boys fourth in Tier III The Thornapple Kellogg/Hastings varsity boys’ swimming and diving team closed out its regular season with a fourth-place finish at the O-K Rainbow Tier III Conference Meet, which it hosted Monday and Tuesday in Hastings. The Trojans got off to a great start, with the team of Zack Zwiernikowski, Craig Gagnon, Levi Ryfiak and Daegen Mix winning the first event, the 200-yard medley relay, in 1 minute 47.90 seconds. All four of them earned all-conference honors, but was the last win for any of the TK/Hastings boys on the day. Wayland took the championship with 503 points, followed by Unity Christian 418, West Catholic 297, Thornapple Kellogg/Hastings 269, Ottawa Hills 234, Union 149 and Creston 88. Ryfiak was also second in the 100-yard butterfly in 57.72 seconds and third in the 200-yard individual medley with a time of 2:17.55. Gagnon also had a third-place finish, in the 200-yard freestyle. He finished that race in 1:56.52. He was also fifth in the 100-yard breaststroke in 1:10.88. Zwiernikowski was sixth in the 100-yard butterfly in 1:01.72 and fifth in the 100-yard backstroke in 1:02.35. TK/Hastings also had Daegen Mix place sixth in the 50-yard freestyle (24.26), Dexx Van Houten seventh in the 100-yard backstroke (1:11.73), and Nate Ryfiak seventh in the diving competition with a score of 248.2. TK/Hastings had the team of Mix, Levi Ryfiak, Zwiernikowski and Gagnon place third in the 400-yard freestyle relay in 3:37.48 and the team of Chad Singleterry, Andrew Rinvelt, Carl Franson and Fredrick Isgard place seventh in the 200-yard freestyle relay in 1:45.65. Unity Christian won both the freestyle relays, as well as the final two individual events, but that wasn’t enough to catch Wayland. Raymond Antel took the 200-yard freestyle in 1:53.02 for the Wildcats, then won the 100yard butterfly in 55.76. His teammate Ian Carter won the 500-yard freestyle in 5:19.90, and Tony Ackerman won the 100-yard freestyle for Wayland in 51.06. Unity had Ben Woldyk win the 100-yard backstroke in 59.00, and the Crusaders’ Drew Besselsen won the 100-yard breaststroke in 1:04.36 and the 200-yard individual medley in 2:01.12. West Catholic took two individual titles, with the Falcons’ Hunter Nemmers winning the 50-yard freestyle in 22.86 and his teammate Ben Paxson winning the diving competition with 376.1 points. Driver trapped in vehicle HHS boys finish regular season 10-10 after accident on M-43 Hastings Police were dispatched Thursday, Feb. 23, at 9:39 a.m. to a traffic accident in the area of North Broadway and Woodlawn Avenue but were unable to locate the accident. The crash was two blocks north, and the involved vehicles were off of the highway in a front yard. Denise Mosher, 58, of Battle Creek and Jennifer Dailey, 40, were both southbound on North Broadway near Calgary Drive. Reportedly, the Dailey vehicle was behind the Mosher vehicle and in the inside lane; the Mosher vehicle in the lane nearest the curb. According to Dailey, the Mosher vehicle slowed and then veered rapidly to the left directly in front of her vehicle, causing a near-direct broadside impact. Both vehicles then crossed northbound lanes, ending up in a nearby lawn. Mosher was trapped in her vehicle for 30 minutes until she was extricated by Hastings Fire Department. She was transferred by Mercy Ambulance to Pennock Hospital for injuries that were not believed to be life-threatening. Kohn sentenced to 18-plus years by David DeDecker Staff Writer James Andrew Kohn, 48, was in Barry County Circuit Court Feb. 23 on four counts of criminal sexual conduct for engaging in sexual activity on numerous occasions with a child under 13 years old. Kohn pleaded to two counts of criminal sexual conduct, first degree. Two more charges CSC, first degree, were dismissed. Judge Amy McDowell, Defense Attorney David Gilbert and Barry County Prosecutor Tom Evans reviewed the sentencing guidelines and the scoring for each offense. The defense argued successfully to lower the scoring on several counts, and prosecution argued successfully to maintain higher scores on the remaining counts. April Kohn, the wife of James Kohn, read a letter in which she asked the court to help the defendant. According to her, he has a good heart and just needs help. “Not only did she not want the victim to testify, she did not want 25 years,” explained Prosecutor Tom Evans in follow-up correspondence. “She was hoping for just one year in jail with probation. Given all the parameters, 18 years, nine months to 50 years is an excellent legal result, although no legal consequences can repair the emotional scars the defendant caused.” Kohn was given the chance to make a statement before the court and he expressed his remorse for his crimes and said he wished he could take it all back. Judge McDowell addressed April Kohn. “Mrs. Kohn, I have a question for you. You understood the plea agreement that was made in this matter?” April Kohn seemed confused at the question and spoke in whispers to the prosecutor. “The plea agreement was if he pleaded guilty to the offense, he would be sentenced within the guidelines,” said McDowell. “Did you understand that? Did you understand it prior to the plea being taken? What I need to explain to you is if I go beyond those guidelines, then Mr. Kohn would be able to withdraw his plea, and he would be able to have a trial. Do you understand that? Because I am giving serious consideration to doing that [going beyond the sentencing guidelines]. It is a very serious offense, but I am also going to take your wishes into consideration.” McDowell then turned to James Kohn. “Well, Mr. Kohn, what you did is despicable and depraved behavior,” said McDowell. “After I read this pre-sentencing report, I felt like I needed to go home and take a shower. It’s disgusting. “The pictures that you had. The description of them in the pre-sentencing report of the child pornography you had is absolutely sickening. Over 2,000 images and videos of young children, both males and females, being raped by adult males. “Two-hundred and twenty-five months seems like hardly enough, and that was not my intention, to give you 225 months. I was going to give you substantially more that. Because it doesn’t seem to me that you understand the seriousness of what you have done, the magnitude of it. I know you are telling me you’re sorry, and you may have some remorse, but you don’t understand what you have done here. “However, I am taking into consideration the victim’s wishes and Mrs. Kohn’s wishes. I am sentencing you to the maximum possible sentence I can, which is 225 months in prison, 600 months under the [Michigan] Department of Corrections on counts 1 and 2. You have credit for 191 days.” In an offense eligible for a life sentence, if the judge does not impose a sentence of life, he or she must order a minimum and maximum sentence. Kohn was sentenced to 18 years and nine months in prison before becoming eligible for parole. The parole board will review Kohn’s case periodically, and if board members believe he is not rehabilitated, they may keep him in prison for up to 50 years. “I hope you can come to some appreciation about what you have done sitting there in prison thinking about it,” said McDowell. Kohn is still facing federal charges of possession of child pornography and Internet pornography. KEEP YOUR FRIENDS AND RELATIVES INFORMED! Send them a gift subscription to The Hastings BANNER To order your subscription, call... 269-945-9554 by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Hastings head coach Don Schils felt like he was watching a microcosm of the entire Saxon season Friday night. There were lows, highs, more lows and more highs, and in the end things didn’t turn out exactly the way the Saxons were hoping. Hastings varsity boys’ basketball team closed out the O-K Gold Conference season with a 54-49 loss to visiting Forest Hills Eastern. The Saxons trailed by as many as 16 points early in the fourth quarter, before battling back to within a point thanks to threes from Luke Heide and Maxwell Clark and a fullcourt press that caused a couple Hawk turnovers. The Hawks though were able to swat away the Saxons’ last couple attempts at taking a lead in the final minute, then sealed the win at the free throw line. Forest Hills Eastern started on the path to a win early, building a 32-15 lead before Hastings went on a 13-0 run to close out the first half and make it a ballgame again. “They pretty much dominated the first quarter and a half,” said Schils. “We got great looks at the basket. We just couldn’t hit the broad side of a barn.” Hastings switched to a zone defense to slow down the Hawks in the second quarter, then go the offense sparked with a couple of threes by Heide. Those threes gave everyone on the Saxons team a little bit of energy. Maxwell Clark led Hastings in the contest with 17 points. Heide hit the two secondquarter threes and the one in the fourth to finish with nine points. Hastings also got nine points from Keith Garber. Michael Eastman led the Saxons with six rebounds, and Danny Beuhler had team highs in assists with five and steals with four. The Hawks were led by Alex Harrison’s 14 points. The Saxons close out the O-K Gold season with a 4-10 league record. They were 6-0 in non-conference game this season though to finish the regular season at 10-10 overall. That tenth win came Tuesday night, as the Saxons topped Covenant Christian 49-46. “I think this was the most consistent game on both ends of the floor,” said Schils. “It’s kind of what we’ve been shooting for all year long.” The two teams went back and forth at each other in the first half. Schils was happy his offense was playing well enough to pour in 17 points. So did the Chargers’ offense though. The Chargers scored at least 80 points in at least five games this season, so the Saxons were happy the scoring pace slowed down a bit. “Our defense was outstanding,” said Schils. “They like to shoot the three. Our kids did a great job of getting to the three-point line and making sure they didn’t get quick looks.” The Saxon defense also limited the Chargers’ ability to penetrate, stopping kickout chances. The Chargers did manage seven threes in the game, including five in the fourth quarter which made the final score close. Hastings had led 39-28 heading into the fourth quarter. Heide led the Saxons with 15 points, while Clark finished with 11. Buehler added nine points as well as five rebounds, three steals and three assists. Eastman also had five rebounds. Offensively, Schils said it was the best his team has moved the ball around all season long. Eastman and Heide were both strong on the defensive end, as was reserve forward Alex Cherry who did a good job of chasing around the Chargers’ more athletic five-man when called upon. The Saxons open play in the Class B District Tournament at Lakewood High School on Monday, taking on Ionia in the tournament’s only first round match-up. The winner of that game takes on Portland in the first of two district semifinals Wednesday. Lakewood and Thornapple Kellogg meet in the other district semifinal there Wednesday. Young LHS cheer team 8th at its D 3 regional tourney The Vikings did some great things with a young team this year, but came up just short of the ultimate goal once again. Lakewood’s varsity competitive cheer team saw its season end at Saturday’s Division 3 Regional Tournament at Otsego High School with an eighth place finish. The top four teams from the regional, Comstock Park, Paw Paw, Midland Bullock Creek and Gladstone, qualified for this Saturday’s Division 3 State Finals which will be held at the DeltaPlex in Grand Rapids. “We had an outstanding season for the experience we had on the mat,” said Lakewood head coach Kim Martin. “I am very proud of this team and all they have accomplished this season. I am looking forward to continuing next year and building on what this team has done for Lakewood Cheer.” There will be lots of girls back. The Vikings team included nine juniors and four sophomores. Martin said she didn’t have any four-year varsity cheerleaders this year. The team had just four seniors, including two with two and a half years of varsity experience, one with two years and one who was compet- ing with the varsity for the first time. Those girls helped lead the Vikings to regionals once again, where they had their best round two of the season, scoring a 199.4248. That wasn’t the best score of the season for the Vikings in round two, but Martin said it was their best performance. Rounds one and three weren’t the Vikings’ bests though, they scored a 209.6 in the opening round, which had them in seventh place at the time. Lakewood closed out the day with a 287.6 in round three. Comstock Park had the top score in each of the first two rounds, a 218 in round one and a 222.6504 in round two, then added a 302.8 in round three to win the tournament with a total score of 743.4504. Paw Paw, which had the best round three of the tournament at 312.7, was second with a total score of 733.5740. Bullock Creek was third with a 722.1392, followed by Gladstone 720.83, Otsego 719.3656, Howard City Tri-County 718.8088, Houghton Lake 695.5060, Lakewood 694.6248, Grand Rapids Catholic Central 692.1316, Kingsford 675.5214, Allendale 675.2706 and Portland 641.1280. Lansing Catholic beats LHS in last game before tourney Lakewood’s varsity girls’ basketball team closed out the Capital Area Activities Conference White Division season with a 5-5 record, falling 54-47 at Lansing Catholic Friday. The Cougars jumped out to a 28-22 lead in the first half. “We started out a little sluggish,” said Lakewood head coach Denny Frost. “Either it was the week off, no school, or we just were not ready to play. We dug a hole early against a good team, and that usually means problems.” Lakewood whittled that edge down to 3837 heading into the fourth quarter though, and eventually took a small lead. “We did a nice job of getting back into the game and actually took a lead in the fourth, but couldn’t finish,” Frost said. “We couldn’t catch a break, and we missed some key free throws down the stretch. Kristin Hilley and Madi King led the way for the Vikings offensively, scoring 14 points each. Hilley drained four three-pointers. Brooke Wieland also had a good night for Lakewood behind the three-point line, she hit three threes and finished with nine points. King also added five rebounds, three assists and seven steals. Wieland had a teamhigh six assists, to go along with four rebounds. Emily Kutch finished with six rebounds as well as five points. A 3-of-11 performance at the free throw line hurt the Vikings. Kelley McKeon led the Cougars to the win with 20 points. Lansing Catholic also got 17 points from Alissa Albright. The Vikings end the regular season with a 9-11 record. “I was proud of the way the girls fought back to make it a game, but it is the time of year when you have to come ready to play from the start,” said Frost. “We talked about this being a good game to focus as a tournament game. You don’t get any second chances now so we will have to be ready to play Wednesday or the season will be done.” Lakewood was scheduled to open Class B District play in the semifinals against Portland at Thornapple Kellogg High School Wednesday. The winner of that game will play again in the district finals Friday at 7 p.m. against the winner of Wednesday’s other semifinal between the host Trojans and Ionia. TK has one boy, one girl, in top 10 at Gold bowling final Caledonia’s varsity boys’ bowling team capped off its run to an O-K Gold Conference championship by winning Saturday’s Post Conference Tournament in Middleville. The Fighting Scots were 147 pins better than Wayland to take Saturday’s tournament title. South Christian was home of the girls’ league champions, as the Sailors were 393 points better than runner-up Wayland. The Scots finished the boys’ tournament with a score of 3,786. Wayland was second with a score of 3,639, followed by South Christian 3,489, Catholic Central 3,311, Ottawa Hills 3,219, Thornapple Kellogg 3,061 and Forest Hills Eastern 2,678. The Caledonia boys had the top team game of the day, a 1,085. South Christian’s boys had the best baker game of the day, a 234. The top two individuals Saturday were Caledonia’s Trevor DeHaan and Taylor Colligan. Taking the top two out of three games DeHaan finished with a total score of 556. Colligan finished with a 465. The Scots’ also had Travis DeHaan place ninth with a 414. Thornapple Kellogg’s leader on the day was Jonathon Campbell, who was eighth with a 432. TK also had one girl crack the top ten, Anna Osterbaan. She was tenth with a 324. The girls’ top ten included five Sailors, led by individual champion Kari Potts who had a two-game total of 436. The Sailor team finished the day with a score of 3,261, finishing ahead of Wayland 2,868, Catholic Central 2,653, Thornapple Kellogg 2,647, Forest Hills Eastern 2,214, Caledonia 1,872 and Ottawa Hills 1,867. �Page 18 — Thursday, March 1, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lakewood struggles against the Comets’ pressure by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The scorebook made it look like Grand Ledge freshman Cassell Jones had a great offensive night Tuesday. He scored 22 points, 19 of them in the second half, to lead Grand Ledge’s varsity boys’ basketball team to a 54-34 win at Lakewood High School. The offensive skills he needed to amass those 22 points though didn’t extend much beyond dribbling the ball from halfcourt and laying it up and into the basket. Lakewood’s Jacob Buehler drilled a threepointer with 15 seconds left in the opening quarter to give the host Vikings a 20-8 lead on Senior Night. Grand Ledge came out with full-court press that threw traps at the Vikings here and there beginning in the second quarter though, and Lakewood couldn’t handle it. “In the first quarter, we played good defense, we rebounded their missed shots, and we went down the floor and executed our offense,” said Lakewood head coach Mark Farrell. “From then on, they picked up their pressure and we just melted down and couldn’t handle the pressure. As the pressure kept building up, we kept throwing the ball backwards instead of forwards. I took five timeouts to try and tell them to attack and run your press break and attack the basket and they kept throwing it backwards.” When the Vikings weren’t throwing it, the Comets were just taking it. Lakewood finished the night with 25 turnovers. Jones had four steals. Buehler’s three was the last field goal of the first half for Lakewood. The Comets went on a 14-4 run in the second quarter to get back in the ballgame, then took the lead by scoring the first two baskets of the second half. “In the first quarter we were the ones diving on the floor, we were the ones getting the loose balls,” Farrell said. “From the second quarter on they decided they wanted to get the loose balls. They wanted to be the physically aggressive team and we went right away from being aggressive.” Lakewood held its last lead of the ballgame at 30-28 with three minutes to go in the third quarter. The Vikings scored two buckets in the first three minutes of the second half, then didn’t tally another field goal until just 1:30 remained in the game. Grand Ledge led 52-34 at that point. The Comets outscored the Vikings 18-3 in the fourth quarter. Behind Jones, Jordan Loredo had ten points for Grand Ledge and Nathan Megge added eight. Lakewood got 14 points from Spencer Palmer, and seven each from Dylan Durkee and Jordan Cooper. Palmer also had a teamhigh nine rebounds. Durkee and Buehler had four boards each. Adam Barker had six assists, while Cooper had four steals. The Vikings close out the regular season at Mason Thursday, then open play in the Class B District Tournament they’re hosting next week with a semifinal contest against Thornapple Kellogg Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. The Vikings are now 3-16 overall this season. They were 2-8 in the Capital Area Activities Conference White Division. The message Farrell gave to his team during a time-out early in the second half Friday night was a simple one. He wanted his team to do its very best to not allow Lansing Catholic’s best scorer to be the one that beat them. The message sunk in, but it wasn’t quite DK girls close KVA play with victory over visiting Pennfield Lakewood point guard Adam Barker (right) is pressured by Grand Ledge’s Cassell Jones as he brings the ball up the court during the second quarter Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) enough to get the Vikings a win in Lansing. ketball and creating good shots in the first The host Cougars scored a 52-30 win over half against the Cougars’ man-to-man Lakewood in the CAAC-White finale for both defense. They just didn’t knock down enough teams. of those shots. Lansing Catholic’s Steve Repichowski The Vikings managed to create enough poured in 18 points to lead his team, but only good scoring opportunities though that the scored six of those points in the second half. Cougars switched up to a 2-3 match-up zone Lakewood trailed 35-20 at the half, but in the second half. That defense limited the only allowed the Cougars six points in the Vikings to just ten second-half points. third quarter and just 11 more in the fourth. Lakewood hung with the Cougars early, “Not allowing (Repichowski) to control the leading 8-4 midway through the opening tempo of the game was the difference defen- quarter. The Cougars eventually tied the game sively,” said Farrell. though, then stretched their lead to double While Repichowski was slowed down in digits in the second quarter. A little spurt at the second half, so were the Vikings. the end of the first half allowed Lansing Lakewood did a good job of moving the bas- Catholic to push its lead to 15 at the break. Lakewood’s Jordan Cooper fires a jump shot over Grand Ledge’s Tom Maurer late in the second quarter Tuesday night. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The Cougars also got 13 points from Jacob Bullock. Cooper led the Vikings with 15 points. David Parks had six points and three rebounds. Lakewood also got four assists from Buehler and three assists and five steals from Barker. DK clinches a share of KVA title Delton Kellogg senior Casandra Coplin addresses the crowd and her teammates as part of the Panthers’ Senior Night ceremony Friday at Delton Kellogg High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Senior Night went the way it was supposed to, with the seniors not needing to be the ones finishing things off in the final seconds. Delton Kellogg’s varsity girls’ basketball team closed out the 2011-12 regular season with a 61-50 win over visiting Pennfield Saturday night. Delton built a six-point half-time lead, then pushed its advantage to more than 20-points early in the third quarter. The Delton girls scored 24 points in the third quarter. The maroon and white Panthers end the regular season in second place in the Kalamazoo Valley Association with a 15-3 league record, one game-back of Olivet. Delton was 17-3 overall heading into its Class C District Semifinal at Galesburg-Augusta High School Wednesday. Adrianna Culbert led Delton Kellogg with 18 points and 12 rebounds in the win over Pennfield, scoring her 1,000th career point in the process. She was fouled on the play, and got to listen to the ovation from the Delton fans at the free throw line as she waited to try and turn her two points into three. “I don’t think we planned it that way, but the fans were really appreciative and congrats to her,” said Delton Kellogg head coach Mike Mohn. “She’s had a heck of a career, and hopefully we can add to that here.” Mallory Sewell also had a heck of a night for Delton, finishing with 16 points and ten rebounds. She was 6-of-6 at the free throw line. Pennfield did make a run at Delton in the second half. Shelby Miller scored 26 points to lead her team, including 13 points in the third quarter. “That part was disappointing, us coaches we’re always trying to make sure we finish stuff out so I was a little bummed out about that,” said Mohn, “but we held on long enough, they ran out of time and got the win.” Delton Kellogg closed out the night with its Senior Night ceremony. The seniors received plaques and got to thank the Delton fans. “They’re all great kids, good citizens, great students too, all of them,” said Mohn by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Panthers are changing their banner. Now their job is to make sure that Olivet doesn’t get to change its too. Delton Kellogg clinched a share of its first conference championship since 1981 by scoring a 75-72 Kalamazoo Valley Association win over Pennfield Saturday in the Delton Kellogg High School gymnasium. “It was really exciting for the kids and myself,” said Delton Kellogg head coach Mike Murray. “We sang the fight song out in the crowd in front of the stands, and got a nice ovation from the fans. That was nice to see.” Maple Valley knocked off Olivet Friday night, allowing Delton to take a one-game lead in the standings with Saturday’s win. Delton will host Olivet Thursday in the regular season finale, trying to win to avoid sharing the league title with Olivet. “We definitely want to clinch an outright title so no one else can hang a banner,” said Complete online schedule at: www.hassk12.org THURSDAY, MARCH 8 3:00 PM Boys Varsity Wrestling TBA State Finals@The Palace A FRIDAY, MARCH 2 State Finals@The Palace A SATURDAY, MARCH 3 3:00 PM Boys Varsity Wrestling State Finals@The Palace A 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 5:30 PM 5:30 PM 7:00 PM Boys Varsity Ice Hockey MHSAA Quarter Finals @ Big Rapids Girls 8th A Basketball Thornapple-Kellogg MS Girls 7th A Basketball Thornapple-Kellogg MS Girls 7th B Basketball Thornapple-Kellogg MS Girls 8th B Basketball Thornapple-Kellogg MS Boys Varsity Basketball Districts Lakewood vs Ionia A H A A H A Wrestling Thanks to This Week’s Sponsor: Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, P.C. 840 Cook Rd. Hastings, MI 49058 Phone: 269-945-9520 Toll Free: 800-596-1005 Contact us on the web @ www.hoc-mi.com HASTINGS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS TUESDAY, MARCH 6 4:15 PM Boys MS Times and dates subject to change “Quality Care with Compassion” MONDAY, MAY 5 TBA Boys Varsity Ice Hockey MHSAA Semi-Finals A @ Compuware 4:15 PM Boys MS Wrestling Forest Hills North Middle H Comstock Park HS H Contact Nancy 945-2742 or hastingsathleticboosters@gmail.com to sponsor the schedule 77566108 9:00 AM Boys Varsity Wrestling Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. Hackett and Delton Kellogg’s Zach Meyers fires up a shot during Saturday evening’s KVA contest with Pennfield. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Schoolcraft meet in the second of two opening round games at Schoolcraft High School Monday. Bath Bees beat Lion ladies in their tournament opener SAXON WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE THURSDAY, MARCH 1 Murray. “It’s going to be senior nights. We want those guys to go out with a win in their last game on their home floor. There are lots to reasons we want to win this game against a really good team.” Delton Kellogg started slow against Pennfield, falling behind 21-11 in the opening quarter, but came roaring back with a 25-18 run in the second quarter. The maroon and white Panthers took a 55-54 lead into the fourth quarter. Murray said the victory could be attributed to his team’s willingness and ability to work hard for 32 minutes. Mitchell Wandell led the Panthers with 21 points and Ryan Watson added 20. Delton also got 15 points from Norm O’Meara and seven from Connor Wolschleger. Tyler Grimes led Pennfield with 21 points, while Evan Bish added 15 and Jon Everett had 12. The win moved Delton’s KVA record to 14-3. Delton is 16-3 overall after scoring a 51-41 win over winless Allegan Tuesday. “It’s the classic trap game,” said Murray. “We did a good job of fighting through that with our defensive consistency” Delton led by just six heading into the fourth quarter, then closed out the Tigers with a perfect performance at the free throw line in the fourth. For the night Delton was 20-for-22 at the line. Wandell and Wolschleger were both 6-of-6 and Watson went 5-of-5. Watson led the way for Delton with 17 points. Wandell had ten points, and Ryan Hook added eight. Allegan got 15 points from Jesse DeBoer. Delton Kellogg heads to Schoolcraft for its Class C District Tournament next week. The Panthers have a first-round bye, and will take on either Hackett Catholic Central or Schoolcraft in the district semifinals Delton Kellogg head coach Mike Murray celebrates his team’s 75-72 victory over Pennfield which clinched a share of the Panthers’ first conference championship since 1981 Saturday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Maple Valley’s varsity girls’ basketball team picked up its pace offensively a little bit Monday, but it wasn’t enough to keep up with Bath. Bath topped the Lions 51-33 in the Class C District Opener at Laingsburg High School, starting the game with a 15-8 run, and then closing out the win by outscoring the Lions 13-3 in the fourth quarter. Sara Hawkins led the Bees with 13 points, while her teammates Ashley Haltom and Krista Kinsey added ten each. Maple Valley got 14 points from Timara Burd and eight from Zoanne Siple. The Lions end the season with a 4-17 overall record. They were 3-15 in the Kalamazoo Valley Association this season. Lion head coach Landon Wilkes said a lack of defensive intensity cost his team in its last two league contests, including a 61-17 loss at Olivet Friday night. Olivet got 15 points from Hayley Walkowski, 12 from Taylor Hisler and ten each from Maggie Fisk and Emily Wilson as they clinched the KVA championship with the victory. They end the league season with a 16-2 record. Kaitlyn Petersen led the Lions with ten points, while Alicia Ramsey added five. “I still believe in the girls,” Wilkes said. “I still think they’re a great group of kids. I still believe we have a lot of potential, we are just going to have to dig down and find it.” Bath was slated to take on Laingsburg in one district semifinal Wednesday at Laingsburg, while Saranac was set to meet Pewamo-Westphalia. P-W edged Potterville 33-32 in the other district opener Monday at Laingsburg High School. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 1, 2012 — Page 19 Lions hurt Olivet’s chances of KVA title with OT win Thornapple Kellogg’s Dylan VanPutten crashes into South Christian’s Brandon Haan as he attacks the basket during the first half Friday night in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Senior duo combines for 46 points to top South by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Trojans faced their biggest deficit of the night with four minutes left in the third quarter. That’s when Greg Hamilton took over. South Christian’s varsity boys’ basketball pushed its lead to 37-30 at Thornapple Kellogg High School Friday night, the biggest lead to that point in the night for either team. In less than five minutes, TK had its biggest lead of the night at 51-43, and the Trojans held on for a 58-52 win to close out the regular season. Hamilton had 17 of his game-high 26 points in the 12 minutes after South Christian built its seven-point lead. He hit four threes during what was left of the third quarter helping his team pull in front 46-43 at the end of three, then scored the first five points of the fourth quarter to put his team up eight. Hamilton also had a team-high four assists. “The wrap around passes, the dump downs, in that first half he was more of a distributor,” said TK head coach Mike Rynearson. “In the second half, he decided he was going to take the game into his own hands. “He caught fire from the three-point arc. That’s really what ignited our run. I don’t think we ever trailed after that.” Hamilton’s good passes often found teammate Caden Francisco in good position to score. He was 8-of-10 from the floor, and finished the night with 20 points and ten rebounds. Hamilton had seven rebounds himself as well. Those two seniors combined for 46 of TK’s 58 points on Senior Night. The Trojans also honored Brendon Hudson, DJ Nolff, Luke Manning, Zac Comeau, Dylan VanPutten and Jordan Timm as part of the Senior Night ceremonies, as well as the all the varsity players’ parents. TK led a tight game for much of the early going. The Trojans had to work hard against the Sailor defense, but did the work it took to get good looks at the basket. As a team TK shot 53 percent from the floor. “You know what it’s going to be when you play South, it’s going to be who can execute in the half-court,” said Rynearson. “We got in a stretch where they pushed the ball and got lay-ups on us. We called a time-out and made some adjustments and we started getting back to take those away. When you do that, it’s whoever executes in the half-court and I thought we outexecuted them.” Comeau matched Hamilton’s four assists. VanPutten and Tommy Hamilton had two each. South Christian took its first lead of the game with just under five minutes to play in the second quarter. The two teams went into the locker rooms at half-time tied at 26-26. The Sailors got 11 points and ten rebounds from Seth VanEngen, and nine points each from Jordan Mulder, Brandon Haan and David Hossink “We want to win every time we step on the floor, but every time you step on the floor against South Christian you want to win,” Rynearson said. “I have no idea how long it’s been since we beat this South team. These TK boys are gritty. They’re tough. They fight ‘til the end, that’s for sure. I couldn’t be more proud of them.” TK ends the regular season with a 12-8 record overall and a 7-7 O-K Gold Conference mark. The Trojans now have a week and a half off before opening district play March 7 at Lakewood High School against the host Vikings. by Brett Bremer Sports Editor What’s better than beating Olivet once? Beating Olivet twice. That’s what the Lions felt like they did Friday night. “When they told me it was a two, it was like my heart couldn’t stop racing,” said Maple Valley varsity boys’ basketball coach Chris Ewing. The Lions celebrated a 51-50 victory at Olivet High School after Garrett Reid knocked down a game-winning three-pointer at the end of the fourth quarter. Only, it wasn’t a three - at least not in the eyes of the officials. It was ruled a two, and there was more work to do. The Lions got that work done, outscoring Olivet 12-11 in overtime to earn a 62-61 Kalamazoo Valley Association victory over the Eagles who came into the night tied with Delton Kellogg for first place in the league. The Eagles are now 13-4 in the KVA, while the Lions improve to 2-15 in the league with the win. Olivet needs a win at Delton Kellogg High School Thursday to share the league championship with the Panthers. The Lions took a two-point lead on a layup by Austin Tobias, then fouled the Eagles Quintan Harris, knowing he struggles at the free throw line, with about 1:20 remaining. Harris missed, and the Lions held on for the win with a great performance at the foul line. Maple Valley missed two free throws in the extra session, its first and its last. In between, the Lions drilled ten in a row. The last Lion miss came with the team up four with just over seven seconds remaining. The Eagles hit one last three-pointer as the buzzer sounded to make it a one-point game in the end. “We were really amped up for the challenge of playing them,” Ewing said. “They were ready and used every ounce of energy they had. I had three guys whose legs were cramping up. It showed we were playing with everything we had to beat our rivals.” Reid led the Lions with 18 points, as well as five rebounds and five assists. Maple Valley also got 13 points from Tobias, 12 from Garret Mater and ten from Garrett Miller. Mater also had nine rebounds and six assists. Miller had a team-high ten rebounds. The game was close throughout. Olivet led 9-7 at the end of one quarter, but at the half it was the Lions up 22-21. Maple Valley led 3735 at the end of three. Olivet got 15 points from Tanner McCarn, and 12 from Quintan Harris. Ewing was very happy with the job his guys did on the Eagles’ 6-8 center Harris though. “I am very proud of Tobias, and (Tyler) Hickey, and Tommy Mudge and Kyle Spencer. They played very good defense on Harris and kind of really controlled him the whole game.” The defensive effort was focused as much on limiting his ability as a passer as his ability as a scorer. Things were just as exciting Tuesday, as Thornapple Kellogg seniors Shelby Tedrow (from left), Lauren Bailey and Erin Ellinger share a moment on the sideline late in their senior night loss to South Christian Friday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) regular season. The Trojans ended the regular season with a 5-15 overall record, and a 4-12 O-K Gold Conference mark. The Sailors got 14 points from Cassidy Vredevoogd, 12 from Morgan Leep and ten from McKenzie Diemer in the win. South Christian jumped out to a 26-8 lead in the opening quarter. “Our time will come as far as this league,” said TK head coach Jesse Bays. “We’ve just got to get better at doing the small things. We created a lot of turnovers tonight. I was shocked by how many turnovers. Man, when you create 20 and you give up 30 that’s going to be hard to overcome. That’s one of the things that we have to learn - that the ball is valuable. Yeah, we can cause turnovers, but if we’re turning it right back over it defeats the purpose of what we’re trying to do. They’re learning.” The Trojans got eight points from Molly Lark and Shelby Tedrow in the loss, as well as six from Erin Ellinger. Tedrow, Ellinger and Lauren Bailey are the three Trojan seniors who were honored Friday. Those three weren’t done playing on their home floor Friday though. The Trojans were scheduled to take on Ionia in the Class B District Semifinals which they’re hosting in Middleville Wednesday. Portland and Lakewood met in the other semifinal at TKHS Wednesday, and the two winners from Wednesday night will meet in the district finals Friday at 7 p.m. the Lions scored a 50-49 non-conferencewin at Bellevue , with Miller drilling a long threepointer at the buzzer to beat the Broncos. That was one of three threes by Miller in the contest. He finshed with nine points. Austin Gonser led Maple Valley with 16 points. Reid had 14 points, to go along with seven rebounds and seven assists. The Lions built an early lead, only to see the Broncos come storming back in the contest. The two teams were back and forth then the rest of the night, with the Broncos taking a 25-24 half-time lead. Travis Oberlin led Bellevue with 26 points. The Broncos also got 11 points from Mike Olmstead and six from Tyler Waterbury. The Lions close out the regular season with a trip to Hackett Catholic Central Thursday. District play beings for Maple Valley Monday at Laingsburg High School, with the Lions facing Saranac in the opening round of the Class C state tournament at 7 p.m. Pewamo-Westphalia and Bath meet in the first opening round game at Laingsburg Monday at 5:30 p.m. It takes a team effort to do a quality repair... Maple Valley’s Garrett Miller fires up a long three-pointer during his team’s onepoint win at Bellevue Tuesday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) South tops TK girls on Senior Night by Brett Bremer Sports Editor South Christian topped the Thornapple Kellogg varsity girls’ basketball team 70-33 on Senior Night/Parents’ Night at Thornapple Kellogg High School Friday to close out the Maple Valley’s Garrett Reid flies between Bellevue’s Tyler Waterbury (left) and Travis Oberlin to put up a shot Tuesday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) AND WE ARE YOUR TEAM We would like to “Welcome” Lee Bowman to our professional repair staff Lee comes to us from Berger Chevrolet in Grand Rapids with 18 years experience. 77566169 He is an ASE certified technician, I-Car platinum individual and a certified collision repair estimator. Please help us welcome Lee to our team with over 60 years combined on the job experience. Thornapple Kellogg’s Kelli Graham tries to get a shot over South Christian center Cassidy Vredevoogd during the third quarter Friday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) 819 Railroad Street Hastings, Michigan 269-948-9472 �Page 20 — Thursday, March 1, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Tears and cheers as Trojans earn spot in Finals by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The announcer at Grand Rapids Christian’s Quest Center Saturday might as well have been saying, “in ninth place, not TK!” “In eighth place, not TK!” “In seventh place …” “I think I started crying when they announced seventh place and I thought we’d have a chance,” said Thornapple Kellogg senior Shannon Whitney, “It’s so unreal. I didn’t know it was a possibility until …” Until the announcer came to fifth place, and that fifth-place team at the Division 2 Cheer Regional was announced as Grand Rapids Christian, meaning that the Thornapple Kellogg varsity competitive cheer team had clinched a spot in the top four at the regional tournament and thus a spot in this Saturday’s Division 2 State Finals at the Delta Plex in Grand Rapids. Whitney wasn’t the only one crying. “It’s like you have 22 kids, and all year they work so hard,” said TK head coach Abby Kanitz. “Everybody here works hard, but you want it more for your kids than for anybody else. Man, they’ve worked hard.” The tears and cheers continued to build until TK was finally announced as the thirdplace team, finishing behind only regional champion DeWitt and runner-up Byron Center at the 12-team event. Hastings also had a very good day, placing sixth. The Trojans don’t talk about scores during the competition, but anyone who was paying attention knew the Trojans were fifth after round one, and that’ they’d fallen to seventh heading into round three. The Trojans had to make up points in round three, which they know they’re capable of doing. “Our coach is really good at making a good clean round three,” said TK senior MacKenzie Borrink. “We work really hard on it at practice. We work really hard at making sure all the little things go good.” But once the round started one little thing went wrong. One of the Trojan stunt groups had a fall. “We had a fall, but they’re not falling without a fight. That’s what it’s all about. They get right back in it. It doesn’t ruin the rest of the The Saxons rise above the mat during their round three performance at Saturday’s Division 2 Regional Tournament at Grand Rapids Christian’s Quest Center. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity competitive cheer team breaks its huddle after placing third at Saturday’s Division 2 Regional Tournament hosted by Grand Rapids Christian. The Trojans earned a spot in Saturday’s Division 2 State Finals with their performance. (Photo by Brett Bremer) cheer for them. They know they still have a job to do,” said Kanitz. TK still managed the highest round three score of the day, a 315. That combined with a 219.8 in round one and a 217.6960 in round two gave the Trojans a total score of 752.4960. “We practiced really hard on all the little things, perfecting everything. We stay positive,” Whitney said. “We support each other, and we’re always positive together. If something goes wrong we just keep our heads in the game and we keep going.” DeWitt earned the regional trophy with a total score of 764.4076. The Panthers had the top round one and two scores, a 225.1 and a 234.9076, and then added a 304.4 in round three. Runner-up Byron Center finished with a score of 757.4080, while the other state qualifying team, Kenowa Hills, finished fourth with a score of 749.1648. Grand Rapids Christian scored a 747.3736 to finish in fifth, and Hastings earned the last spot in the top half of the standings with a 742.2752. The Trojans’ fall in round three wasn’t as bad as the one by the Portage Northern team, which scored just a 290.3 in round three. The Huskies were in second place after the first two rounds, but dropped all the way to seventh with a final score of 742.2094. “We came in with the lowest score from districts, so for us to get sixth is amazing,” said Hastings head coach Amy Hubbell. “We beat Portage Northern, who took first at our district. We beat St. Joe, who took third at our district. I think TK is the only one out of our district that beat us today, and we took fourth at our district so we beat two of those teams. That’s amazing. We just had an amazing season.” TK was one of just four teams that had a higher round three score than the Saxons’ 307.7. The strong Saxon showing though was due in large part to its improved performances in the first two rounds. Hastings scored a 216.8 in round one and a 217.8752 in round two. “That’s what we drilled all week, our round one and our round two, because we know our round three is solid,” Hubbell said. “We just really had to work on our round one and round two, and we did that. We still had a good time at practice. They like being together.” Hastings had never qualified for regionals before. TK has never been to the state finals before. “It’s crazy. It’s something that we’ve been working extremely hard for, and we’re very glad that we accomplished it,” said TK senior Tori Lindow. “It’s something that we’ve been working towards for a few years now, and we’re really happy that we got it.” The Division 2 State Finals are scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. Saturday. Behind the top seven teams at the regional, Charlotte was eighth with a score of 735.9088 followed by Cedar Springs 730.1842, St. Joseph 727.1844, Mount Pleasant 720.7480 and Mason 712.2404. The Saxons perform a jump during round two at Saturday’s Division 2 Regional Tournament hosted by Grand Rapids Christian. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Hastings girls played their best ball at the end by Brett Bremer Sports Editor There wasn’t any March Magic for the Saxons Monday. Hastings varsity girls’ basketball team was downed 55-21 by No. 2 ranked Portland in its Class B District Tournament Opener at Thornapple Kellogg High School. Portland improved to 21-0 on the season with the win, while the Saxons see their season end with a 3-18 mark overall. “They’re good,” said Hastings head coach Steve Laubaugh. “The thing about when you have that kind of talent and that kind of record, your expectations are you’re going to win. Basketball is so much of a mental game. Battle Creek Farm Bureau would like to invite you to attend the 2012 Improving Wildlife Habitat Meeting Thursday, March 8, 2012 • 6:00 p.m. at Battle Creek Farm Bureau, Battle Creek Speakers at the meeting will cover various aspects of seed selection, design and installation of your food plots. Featured Speakers from... Yeah, they had more talent than I did as well, but they never once ever thought they had to do anything special to win and we knew that something special had to happen for us to win.” “We just knew we had to shoot an incredible percentage in this game to win, and we didn’t. The only way we were going to win was to get hot and we weren’t hot.” Taylor Carter was just 1-of-6 from threepoint range for the Saxons, but the game plan was for her to keep firing them up because that’s what the team needed. That rough shooting percentage wasn’t anything special to Carter. The whole Saxon team was just 2of-17 from the floor in the first half. The Raiders led 23-5 at the break. “We got to half-time and I said, look I’m not upset with the way our defense is playing. If you would have told me we’d only have given up 23 at halftime I would have said I’ll take that. I’m actually not upset with the way we’re playing our offense right now,” Laubaugh said. The Saxon guards actually handled the Portland full-court pressure pretty well. Portland wiped away any thoughts of a Saxon come-back with a 23-9 run in the third quarter. Portland got nine points each from Taylor Roe, Sarah Trierweller and Alexandra Grys in Anyone interested in attending must register by calling 269-962-4025 or by stopping in at the Battle Creek Farm Bureau by March 5th. There will be a limited number of spaces available. “Over 20 Years of Producing Trophy Whitetails” LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED FOR OVER 90 YEARS. 77566175 MN Ave FARM BUREAU Dickman Rd 295 Hamblin Battle Creek, MI 49037 Phone: 269-962-4025 Email: bcfbbc@ctsmail.net 42nd St I-94 Hamblin Washington FARM BUREAU Jackson Battle Creek Kendall Battle Creek Battle Creek FARM BUREAU 44th St 2 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU! OP Ave 14325 O.P. Ave. Climax, MI 49034 Phone: 269-746-4286 Email: bcfbc@hotmail.com Hastings’ senior Laken Meade drives baseline against Portland’s Whitney Hoppes during the third quarter at Thornapple Kellogg High School Monday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) worked to our advantage. We just came out totally on fire. The first quarter we had a ton of energy, and our defense was working great. “Then the second quarter, unbelievable. It was even better.” The Saxons outscored the Hawks 20-4 in that second quarter. The Saxons weren’t used to playing with a second-half lead, and the Hawks made a little bit of a run in the third quarter, cutting the Saxons lead to 43-22. Carter led the Saxons with 19 points. Meredith added eight points and Rachel Quillen chipped in seven. Meredith matched her senior season high scoring total with those eight points. The whole Saxon team had its highest scoring output of the season, thanks in part to its highest shooting percentage of the season which was 43 percent for the game. Meredith wasn’t the only senior with a very good offensive game. Laubaugh said Laken Meade had her best offensive game of the year. Fellow senior Katie Coenen played some good defense early on for the Saxons as well. Saxon senior Dani Meredith begins to push the ball up the court during the fourth quarter for the Saxons Monday in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) the win. Allison Russell added eight points. Carter led the Saxons with ten points. Dani Meredith had three points. Portland advanced to Wednesday’s district semifinals with the win, where they were scheduled to meet their league rivals from Lakewood. The district championship game will be played Friday in Middleville. The host Trojans and Ionia Bulldogs were set to meet in the other district semifinal there Wednesday. “In the last two weeks, we really did play our best basketball,” Laubaugh said. “Back in the end of January the early part of February we kind of hit our rock bottom. We played much better from that win last Friday (Feb. 17) against Ottawa Hills, into the game against Wayland and then Saturday night against Forest Hills Eastern.” The Saxons closed out the regular season with a 51-33 win over visiting Forest Hills Eastern in O-K Gold Conference action. Hastings outscored the Hawks 31-8 in the first half. “This was a good way to end the season,” Laubaugh said. “We had to move the game for the weather on Friday, but it probably The Saxons’ Kaitlin Allan fires a short jumper for two points as Portland’s Kathryn Blake closes in during the third quarter Monday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-03-08.pdf 7019233cd56a1d156890b3e8fefa1af1 PDF Text Text Changes coming for county’s largest employer Super PACs subverting the political process DK girls win their first district title See Story on Page 2 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 18 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 10 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, March 8, 2012 Student artwork admired by teacher is gift to her family NEWS BRIEFS Superintendent interviews continue tonight Hastings Area Schools Board of Education will conduct second-round interviews for superintendent candidates tonight, Thursday, March 8. The interviews will start at 6 p.m. with Forest Hills Central Principal Terry Urquhart; followed by Timothy Allard, assistant superintendent and elementary school principal for Galien Public Schools, at 7:10 p.m.; and Todd Geerlings, assistant superintendent of Mona Shores Public Schools, at 8:20 p.m. The board is expected to decide to whom it will offer the position during its regular March work session, scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 13. Both the second-round interviews and the work session will be in the multi-purpose room of Hastings Middle School, 232 W. Grand St., Hastings. Respect, role modeling focus of family workshop The Family Workshop Series will welcome speaker Pat Lynn three evenings this month in three different locations. Presentations will be in Delton March 12 at Faith United Methodist Church; in Middleville March 19 at the First Baptist Church; and in Hastings March 26 at the First Presbyterian Church. Free pizza dinner begins at 5:30 p.m. with class and child care from 6 to 7:30 p.m. All participants receive a certificate of participation for 1 1/2 hours of training. In each presentation, Lynn will focus on three points: “Explore Respect — what it looks like, sounds like and why it’s important to model for your child;” “respectful discipline that focuses on keeping your child or teen safe;” and “how to use virtue of respect to minimize family conflict.” Participants should register by calling 269-945-6190. Deadline nears for Hastings alumni award; class reps sought The board of directors of the Hastings High School Alumni Association is accepting nominations until March 15 for the 2012 Hastings High School Distinguished Alumnus of the Year Award. The award will be presented at the annual alumni banquet Saturday, June 2, in the high school cafeteria. The board also is seeking class representatives for the alumni banquet. Nominations for the alumni award must be in printed form and should contain biographical information and reasons why the individual is being nominated. Reasons may include accomplishments, vocations, honors and awards received, community service, organization memberships, personal character and other helpful information. The nominee can be residing anywhere but must be an alumnus of Hastings High School. The alumni board would like to continue to consider previously submitted nominations, as well as new nominations. The board is asking anyone who has submitted nominations in the past to resubmit again with up-todate information for the board’s consideration. Send alumnus of the year nomination letters to Donna Brown, president, Hastings High School Alumni Association, 810 Indian Hills Drive, Hastings, MI 49058 or email donnabrown21@sbcglobal.net. Nashville Police conduct sobriety tests on Village President Frank Dunham. (Photo provided by Nashville Police) Nashville village president stopped for suspected OWI Nashville police officers conducted a traffic stop Feb. 18 after watching a Dodge pickup truck cross a double yellow line and almost hit the patrol vehicle, according to the report which was obtained through a Freedom of Information Act request. Officers reported the strong odor of intoxicants from the driver, identified as Frank T. Dunham, 62, who serves as the Nashville Village president. Dunham, stopped near South Main and Pearl streets, was asked to perform a series of sobriety tests, including standing on one leg and counting to 10. Officers said he tried many times to successfully perform the test, but was only able to reach the highest count of three while still on one leg. He also was asked to walk five steps heel-to-toe, but failed. Dunham’s Breathalyzer test at the time registered .184 percent, according to the report, entering the status of “super drunk.” He was arrested for operating while intoxicated, first offense, and taken to the Barry County Jail. Two chemical Breathalyzer tests were administered at the jail and registered .15 percent each. The Nashville officer informed his chief of the arrest and requested that a Barry County Sheriff Deputy witness the arrest. The arrest was recorded by the deputy’s patrol car camera. The case is closed and the report has been turned over to the prosecutor’s office. Dunham is scheduled to appear in Barry County District Court March 13. Fair Lake discussion on hold; Barry Township deals with other water issues by Doug VanderLaan Editor Tension over the April 1 payment on a bond issue that helped fund expansion of water and sewer services to residents of Fair Lake may have temporarily subsided, but issues surrounding water continued to seep through to the business agenda of Tuesday’s monthly Barry Township Board of Trustees meeting. “We’re losing 35,000 to 40,000 gallons of water,” said Trustee Roger Turner, Jr., of the township’s water usage through the Southwest Barry County Sewer and Water Authority system. “That’s a high water loss in the 15 percent range and the DEQ [Michigan Department of Environmental Quality] says water loss should be in the 5 percent to 7 percent range. A 15 percent loss in a small system like ours is a lot of water.” Turner’s remarks came as part of a discussion on a proposal made by Trustee Carol Price that water rates be increased 12 percent to not only cover a current funding shortfall, but to also include a sustainable water meter replacement program that would more carefully track water usage. Current water meters have not been replaced. Their age is suspected in the high water loss percentage and, according to Price, their replacement would produce increased revenue to allow a sustainable replacement program. “I figured out what it would take to replace water meters on a sustainable plan and it would take an 8.3 percent rate increase to do that,” explained Price. “They [ SWBCSWA] needed some additional funds so this is roughly a 12 percent total increase. The assumption is the water usage rate will also increase, making up the roughly 8 percent needed to sustain the water meter replacement program.” When challenged by a resident that the assumed water loss may mistakenly be attributed to the aging water meters, Turner responded that a 15 percent water loss would be showing up in puddles and visible water leakage if water meters were accurately track- ing usage. “The water is going somewhere and it’s conceivable that there’s a couple of meters causing the problem,” said Turner. “There are other potential things that are being assessed for causing the water loss — but the meters have never been replaced.” Turner’s suggestion was that the water meter replacement resolution be a separate one from the rate increase resolution, so as not to confuse future boards of the intent behind the bulk of the proposed increase. Both motions passed unanimously. Though water usage may have been a sidetrack from the larger Fair Lake shortfall, it still hung over Tuesday’s meeting. Supervisor Wes Kahler reported to the board that the SWBCSWA had on Feb. 27 rescinded a previous vote to provide $15,000 in assistance to Barry Township in helping meet an April 1 payment of an approximately $62,097 bond payment dedicated to the 1998 bond that extended water and sewer services to residents of Fair Lake. Kahler reported that he had met with SWBCSWA attorney Jim White who provided four possible options for the township to consider in making the April 1 payment and the eventual total bond service of $350,000. “Jim suggested an additional assessment, a debt service fee, a payment from the general fund, or any combination of the three,” reported Kahler, who proposed that the board meet in public session with its own legal counsel, Ken Sparks, to reach a final plan. Kahler committed to scheduling an evening meeting prior to April 17. One of the potential options became a point of interest subsequent to Kahler’s report when the board discussed adoption of its 2012-13 budget. “We have not resolved where the money for the Fair Lake project is coming from,” stated Price following the motion to approve. “I do not want it to come from the general fund so I will not support it [the motion to approve the 2012-13 budget].” The budget motion was approved by a 4-1 vote. Grace Meade stands beside the piece of handmade wallpaper that had been greatly admired by teacher Carrie Roe. The work is being given to Roe’s surviving husband and children as a special gift from the high school. Before she lost her four-year battle against breast cancer, Hastings High School English language arts teacher Carrie Roe often expressed to high school visual arts teacher Kellen Deau how much she appreciated the student artwork on display in the school’s showcases. Roe recently expressed a special interest in colorful handmade wallpaper created by freshman Grace Meade and asked if Grace would be willing to let her have the piece. “Grace was willing and excited to give her artwork to Carrie,” said Deau. “I wish that we could have gotten the artwork to Carrie sooner, but I hope that her family will appreciate the piece as a gift from our HHS family.” Deau placed the artwork in the counseling area in the back of the main office for the teachers and staff at the school to sign before it is given to the family. This is a close-up of the handmade wallpaper design created by Hastings High School freshman Grace Meade. Teachers and staff collected money to frame the piece, which was much admired by English language arts teacher Carrie Roe who died last week after a 4 1/2-year battle against cancer. �Page 2 — Thursday, March 8, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Northeastern students advance to Changes coming for Barry Michigan History Day state competition County’s largest employer Saturday, March 3, five students from Northeastern Elementary in Hastings competed in the District 6 Michigan History Day. Four students — Carter Smith, Abby Bremer, Claudia McLean and Lindsay Meeker — placed in the top three in their divisions and will advance to the state competition in April. The premise of the competition is to get students interested in history by encouraging them to select their own topics and produce a project. Students may choose from several categories in which to compete, including performance, documentary, website, exhibit and paper. They also may compete individually or in groups. Smith, a fourth grade student, entered in the youth individual performance category with his rendition of David Crockett, writing the frontiersman’s memoirs entitled “David Crockett, from the back woods of Tennessee to the Alamo.” Bremer, a fifth grader, also competed in the youth individual performance category with a project on one of her ancestors entitled “Mary Todd Lincoln - Girl of the Bluegrass.” Another fifth grade student, Sadie Maitland competed in the youth individual performance category with her portrayal of Mary Ludwig Hayes, entitled “Molly Pitcher — Northeastern Elementary Michigan History Day participants posing for a photo are (from left) Carter Smith, Abby Bremer, Sadie Maitland, Claudia McLean and Lindsay Meeker. Connected to the Pitcher,” she received an honorable mention. McLean, a fifth grade student, competed in the youth individual website category with a project entitled “Annie Oakley — Shooting Star.” Meeker, a fifth grader, also competed in the youth individual performance category with her presentation “Betsy Ross — the Fabric of Revolution.” She also received a stipend of $25 to cover the cost of her state application. Lindsay Meeker receives a $25 stipend from Tom Dietz, Michigan History Day District 6 Coordinator. Bonds prove good investments for county by Doug VanderLaan Editor Barry County Commissioners made good on two investments and recommended approval of another during Tuesday’s committee of the whole meeting. “I’m here on three different items, all relating to county bond issues,” said county attorney Jim White; “one new bond issue and two bond issues that have recently been paid off, which is always good.” Both payoffs involved bond issue money for improvement projects backed by the county board in 1996 and which, Tuesday, received a recommendation that the full board, at its regular meeting March 13, make formal transfer of title and property to the respective governing authorities. In November, Kellogg Community College repaid in full a nearly $3 million bond issue to construct and operate a satellite campus in Rutland Charter Township, the Fehsenfeld Center, which opened in 1996. After expected board approval next week, KCC will receive the official title to the property. Also in the fall, the Southwest Barry County Sewer and Water Authority repaid in full a $1.1 bond issue which funded an extension of the service to residents of Fair Lake in Barry Township. To take advantage of a decrease in interest rates, the issue was refinanced through Hastings City Bank, and Barry County was repaid for its initial bond issue. Current low-interest rates are expected to benefit the county in its issuance of $6 million of bonds recommended for approval to fund the proposed 23-bed skilled nursing facility at Thornapple Manor, the county’s medical care facility. “Municipal bond rates are at 30- to 40-year lows,” said White, who estimated that a 20year municipal bond earns 3.6 percent today, though he cautioned an exact level for Barry County will not be determined until contracting bids determine actual construction costs and commissioners approve the bond sale, hopefully in early April. Construction is scheduled to begin by May 1, according to White. In other business, the board approved the following recommendations to be considered Reporting History for the Future in 6 Barry County Area Newspapers • Lakewood News • Maple Valley News • Middleville-Caledonia Sun & News • Reminder • Hastings Banner Over 64,000 Papers Distributed Every Week! 1351 N. M-43 Highway • P.O. Box 188 Hastings, MI 49058 Phone (269) 945-9554 • Fax (269) 945-5192 at its meeting Tuesday: • Recommendations to the county’s mental health and substance abuse board. Commissioners interviewed candidates Pamela Jarvis, Karen Vedro, Gerald Pattok, Melissa Swientoniowski and Teresa Coenen for three positions on the board. Jarvis was recommended for appointment to fill a citizen-at-large appointment, Swientoniowski for a primary consumer position, and Pattok for secondary consumer position. • An extension of the monumentation surveyor agreement between Barry County and participating surveyors for a one-year period. The county participates in the survey of government property as part of a State of Michigan objective that is funded through an annual grant from the state. • An amendment of the parks and recreation board bylaws allowing an increase of the number of citizen-at-large positions on the board to five. The change will eliminate a position reserved for a “crossover” member from the Charlton Park board and the possibility that a representative from each board is not available. • An expenditure of $11,840 to complete the Dec. 31, 2010, actuarial valuation of the Barry County Retiree Health Care Plan required for compliance with a Governmental Accounting Standard Board regulation that state and local government agencies report in their annual audit the financial liability of other post-employment benefits (OPEB, excludes pension). According to County Administrator Michael Brown, Barry County has 288 current single subscribers in the plan which provides health coverage for county employees and retirees from age 60 to 65. Though as large in comparison to the county pension plan, OPEB does carry an unfunded liability which, if reduced by county budget changes, could significantly lower the $135,000 annual expenditure needed from the general fund to fund OPEB each year. • The designation of Thursday, April 12, at 9 a.m. for a special meeting in the commission chambers at the courthouse. Agenda items will be a continuation of the strategic planning discussion commenced at a Jan. 19 special meeting and consideration of issues related to land preservation issues and the Farmland Preservation Ordinance of 2002. The next meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners will be Tuesday, March 13, at 9 a.m. in the commission meeting chambers in the Barry County Courthouse. by Julie Makarewicz Staff Writer Bradford White Corporation must in the next three years undertake big changes. Eric Lannes, executive vice president and general manager of Bradford White, said the company has until April 2015 to meet new federal regulations governing how water heaters are made and distributed. “This is the largest single change we’ve ever done,” said Lannes after Wednesday night’s Middleville Village Council meeting. “And we’re in a short time crunch to get it done. “ One of the first steps in making changes involves expansion of the facility and relocating trailer storage and parking to a new site east of the existing plant. Bradford White requested rezoning a four-acre property at 904 Grand Rapids St.. from low-density single family residential uses to a light industrial zone. Village council members approved a recommendation from the planning commission to rezone the parcel, despite concerns expressed by several residents in the Bryanwood Estates subdivision. Council members said the village master plan since at least 2006 identifies the site as future light industrial zoning and is a logical expansion of the zoning in the area. Village Council President Charlie Pullen and council member Shannon Endsley abstained from the rezoning vote since they both work at Bradford White. Lannes said in order for Bradford White to comply with new federal regulations, the company must undergo a complete retooling of how projects are produced. Plans for the four-acre site are to level and pave the site, allowing trailer parking and storage to be relocated. Property now used for trailer parking can instead be used for facility expansion. “I’m not complaining about how things are now. But moving the operations any closer will significantly and severely impact us. This land was zoned residential. It was the village commitment to us as residents that it would be kept residential. Don’t betray us now. Keep your commitment.” Allison LeRoy “We will be up against a very tight timeline to meet these regulations,” said Lannes, who added that expects to have site plans ready for village review next week. Village Manager Rebecca Fleury said a site plan review committee will consider the plans and citizens will have opportunities for continued input. Several residents attended two public hearings before the planning commission to voice concerns about the rezoning request. Most of their concerns dealt with noise, lights and vibrations moving closer to their homes. Those issues are addressed in site plan reviews and are not considered in rezoning. More than 25 residents attended a special Saturday morning public hearing. Some neighbors said they felt Bradford White could explore other options and that they feel the company is using scare tactics threatening to move out of Middleville if they didn’t get the rezoning approved. “I’m surprised that you would ever threat- en to move out over a parking lot. No one here wants to see Bradford White leave or not be successful. But it’s like you’re throwing a temper tantrum and threatening to move out to get your way,” said Stacey Campos of Riverwood Drive. “This is the largest single change we’ve ever done. And we’re in a short time crunch to get it done. “ Eric Lannes, executive vice president and general manager of Bradford White Chad Brigham, also lives on Riverwood and echoed those concerns. “I think it is fear tactics. There are other options out there. This is probably the most convenient for Bradford White. We are also somewhat important as residents,” he said. Michael Gordon, senior vice president of engineering for Bradford White, denied any threats suggesting the company will leave if plans aren’t approved. But he acknowledged changes are critical to the company’s future. “Bradford White is committed to being good neighbors. We’ve heard concerns and we are listening. We are working on it and trying to minimize the footprint on this community,” said Gordon. Allison LeRoy said she accepted Bradford White’s presence when she moved into her home. “I’m not complaining about how things are now. But moving the operations any closer will significantly and severely impact us. This land was zoned residential. It was the village commitment to us as residents that it would be kept residential. Don’t betray us now. Keep your commitment,” she said. There were several Bradford White supporters as well. Valerie Byrnes with the Barry County Economic Development Alliance said Bradford White is looking at this expansion from a business standpoint and that keeping the company in Middleville is a very legitimate concern. She reminded residents and the planning commission that all over Michigan companies are moving out, finding new locations and leaving areas without workers, communities without great sources of income. She encouraged the planning commission to partner with the Bradford White and work on the site issues after the property is rezoned. Joe Miller has been a Grand Rapids Street neighbor to Bradford White for years. “Bradford White was there long before these people moved in,” he said. “They were there before the homes. Bradford White has gone above and beyond anytime I’ve had any issues as a neighbor and my property borders two sides of Bradford White.” Michelle Huisman, owner of Lovey’s across the street from Bradford White, said her business is booming because of Bradford White. “I do feel for the residents but we have to keep Bradford White here,” said Huisman. “They’re hiring employees and those people are moving in and filling homes here in Middleville and bringing money to our community. If they leave, I fear our town will become a ghost town.” Workshop aimed at individuals considering public office Two workshops for individuals considering running for public office will be offered Tuesday, March 20, and Thursday, March 22, at Hastings City Bank, 150 W. Court St., Hastings. Both sessions are from 6 to 9 p.m. At the first workshop, residents can get information and expertise on becoming a candidate, working with the media and how to research ballot issues. The second workshop will focus on the Open Meetings and Freedom of Information acts; Roberts Rules of Order; ethical conduct; and city, village, county and township issues. The cost is $30 for both sessions, including the booklet Public Officials, Roles and Responsibilities. Enrollment forms are available at the Barry County MSU Extension office at 206 W. Court St., Hastings. For more information, call Linda Fisher, 269-945-1388. The registration deadline is March 9. Sandi Drummond from the Leadership Pillar of the Hometown Partnership will introduce the speakers at both workshops. “We hope to encourage future leaders for the community,” said Drummond. “Running for office can be daunting, so we have set up the workshops into manageable focus to help those planning to run for office understand the requirements and begin planning.” Tuesday’s speakers will be Julie Pioch from the Van Buren County MSU Extension office on self analysis and where to find and how to research ballot issues; Barry County Clerk Pam Jarvis, who will talk about seats available and filing requirements; and Fred Jacobs from J-Ad Graphics, who will discuss working with the media. Jennifer Richards from the Leadership Pillar will close the first session. Thursday, Pioch will talk about the Open Meetings and Freedom of Information acts, Roberts Rules of Order, and public officials’ ethical conduct. These presentations will be followed by a panel discussion on city, village, school and township issues. Members of the panel will be Barry County Administrator Michael Brown, Hastings City Manager Jeff Mansfield and Barry Intermediate School District Superintendent Jeff Jennette. At the end of the panel discussion, Drummond will facilitate a question-andanswer session with the panel members and workshop participants. Before this workshop ends, Nancy Goodin from the Leadership Pillar will welcome final comments and have participants return evaluation forms. Leadership Pillar representatives said the workshops will allow participants to gain a working knowledge of the local political process, adding that it is not an exhaustive education of all relevant issues and campaign issues. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 8, 2012 — Page 3 Replacement of Michigan Avenue bridge begins Replacement of the 63-year-old Michigan Avenue bridge in Hastings is underway. Heavy equipment was hauled in and some barricades put in place in mid-February, closing off Mill Street just west of Michigan Avenue. As of Monday, Michigan Avenue and Mill Street east of the bridge have been closed. Detours direct motorists on the north side of the river up Michigan to Woodlawn Avenue, west to Broadway and then south again. Motorists south of the river follow a slight detour on to State Street. Davis Construction Company of Lansing submitted the lowest bid, $2.3 million for the project that is expected to be completed by Aug. 30. LARGE or small, We Ship It All! 1351 N.Broadway (M-43) Hastings 269.945.9105 OPEN MON.-FRI. 8:30 - 5:30 �Page 4 — Thursday, March 8, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Super PACs are subverting the political process advertisement, we are required to add a tagline with an organization or the person paying for the space. And yet, millions of dollars are spent each day to control the message by promoting a position or a candidate paid for by a special interest group under the banner of free speech. Is this free speech? I think not. The issue isn’t whether these organizations should be allowed to exercise freedom of speech to say anything they want. For many Americans, getting involved It’s about allowing them to taint the in campaigns and taking sides on a given process by saying what they want — issue is considered an American tradition. whether it’s truthful or not, often times Taking part in the political process is what knowing it’s inaccurate — without having we as Americans have accepted as our to sign their name to the message. If we expect to attract good people to the responsibility as good citizens. Listening to the political pundits, political process, then we must demand debates and news interviews is all part of accountability by requiring contributors to the political process. However, most polit- be listed on every commercial, or by ical campaigns have changed their focus directing citizens to a website with a list of lately because, due to a recent decision by contributors. Otherwise, we allow special the Supreme Court, unregulated money is interest groups and individuals to exaggerallowed to control the process. So, in the ate and distort the truth under the guise of future, organizations or special interest free speech. This doesn’t help the process. groups that can raise the most money will In fact, it turns voters off to the point that fewer and fewer will take part in the determine the winners. The problem isn’t just about the level of future. As we get closer to the Nov. 6 presidenspending — it’s more about where the money comes from. And, experts who fol- tial election, we will be bombarded by low the money are concerned with how political mail, television ads and, worst of organizations and funding foundations are all, robo calls, the pre-recorded phone calls working hard to design ways to protect the that automatically dial your phone, usually at dinner time, with a message about an anonymity of the donors. In the future, will voters listen to the issue or candidate. Most people hate them, candidates and their messages for the but it’s become a cheap way for candidates information they need to determine where to get out their messages or react immedia candidate stands on the issues? Or will ately to a change in the campaign. And, the power of the Super PACs (political worst of all, there are no rules regarding action committees) taking over the air- robo messages. The Campaign Finance waves by filling the spaces with negative Act doesn’t mention phone calls, so it ad sound bytes pasted together to form a allows special interest groups to run nomessage that questions another candidate’s holds-barred operations. “You can make up a credibility. completely fictitious The entire process “The harm in this is that committee name. You has become tainted can lie through your due to the limitless we have degenerated teeth in the message amount of money that to this new definition and report nothing. is driving the process. of democracy where, It’s a terrible scam. Leading up to It’s an outrage,” says Michigan’s presiden- ‘my billionaire can whoop Robinson. tial primary Feb. 28, your billionaire,’ and If you’re thinking, millions of dollars I’m not sure that’s ‘I don’t care, I don’t were spent from out- sitting well with the have a landline anyof-state PACs to more,’ consider that influence the state’s American public.” Congress is debating primary voters. No whether to allow longer can we count Rich Robinson, robo-calls to cell on political messages Michigan Campaign phones, even if the to be truthful repreFinance Network consumer ends up sentations of where a paying for the mincandidate stands. It utes. would take hours for This isn’t free most of us to sift through the rhetoric to determine if the speech. This is all about controlling the process to the point voters will no longer message has any validity. Far fewer voters are taking the time to trust anyone running for office. It damages do even the slightest amount of research on the process by allowing special interest candidates and the issues. According to groups and big money to control more of Rich Robinson of the watchdog group the outcomes. What can we do? Contact state and fedMichigan Campaign Finance Network, “The harm in this is that we have degener- eral representatives and tell them your ated to this new definition of democracy concerns over how big money is taking where, ‘my billionaire can whoop your bil- over the election process. In fact, you only lionaire,’ and I’m not sure that’s sitting have to look at what happened in Russia when Vladimir Putin won a third term as well with the American public.” Robinson says all of this money is a cor- president of Russia Sunday using what rupting influence on politics, especially many are saying were fraudulent techsince many of the contributors remain niques that would make a Mafia boss anonymous or are hidden until after finan- blush. If, as Americans, we value our freedoms cial disclosures are filed just late enough that voters don’t know who’s bankrolling and the benefits of our democratic system, some of the politicians. He is calling for then we must demand transparency of the more transparency with more limits on process by requiring accountability in all political messages. Only then will we fundraising. Prior to the recent Supreme Court deci- restore honesty and integrity to the sion, political campaigns were required to process. make available information on who paid Fred Jacobs, vice president, for the advertisement. In fact, even today, J-Ad Graphics Inc. when our newspaper runs a local political “We forget sometimes that Americans are descended from revolutionaries and rebels, people who dared to dissent from British rule. This nation was born when a small band of patriots got mad enough to sign the Declaration of Independence. Getting mad in a constructive way is an American tradition that is good for our souls, good for everyone.” — Author unknown Welcoming southern gusts Winds were strong here Tuesday and Wednesday, but few people complained since the gusts brought warm southerly air, reaching nearly/more than 60 degrees. Here, snowdrops — so named for their ability to hold their bloom even when snow is on the ground — sprung open to show some northern hospitality. We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. We’ll select a photograph for publication each week and post the others to our website for all to enjoy. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Do you know? Happy hoopers Now that the march toward basketball playoffs is upon us, Banner staff members thought it would be a good time to share this photo, taken by Boykin Photos, “Boykin Hill, Guernsey Lake, Cloverdale.” Do you recognize any of these basketball players? Can you tell where the photo was taken; do you recognize the gym? Do you know what school they attended? What grade or team level they were? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@jadgraphics.com, or call 269-945-9554. Helen Altoft recognized one of two women in the foreground of the mystery photo that ran in last week’s Banner. Her Have you sister Retha Green was pictured on the left, but Altoft said she didn’t know the name of the other woman. She did verify that the photo was taken at Orchard Industries, which was located on State Street, near where Wendy’s is today. met? Matt Funk Matt Funk knows the best and the worst roads in much of Barry County. It’s part of his job as transportation supervisor for Thornapple Kellogg Schools, a job he’s held for 21-plus years. His duties include establishing the most efficient routes throughout the district, checking roads in poor weather conditions, and he is at least partially responsible for days when it’s deemed roads are too treacherous for bus traffic to school. He also trains drivers and works on the fleet to keep the buses in good condition. Funk, 48, was born and raised in Barry County and is a 1981 graduate of Thornapple Kellogg High School. He married his high school sweetheart, Michele Stanton, and they have two grown children, Jill and Levi. Matt Funk Favorite song: Boston’s “Don’t Look Back.” Person you most admire: Jesus Christ who came to save the world Best advice you ever received: Listen more than talk. Favorite way to spend a day off: Bad day of fishing beats a good day of work. If you were a superhero, what power would you want: I would love to have wisdom — that would be a super power for me. Favorite things: golfing, basketball, softball, hiking in the Colorado Rockies Best thing about living in Barry County: We are still a rural place with rural people who are friendly. People you don’t know will talk to you and reach out to you when in need. Barry County has some great hunting and fishing areas too. What would you do if you won the lottery: I would help my family and friends. KEEP YOUR FRIENDS AND RELATIVES INFORMED! Send them a gift subscription to The Hastings BANNER To order your subscription, call... 269-945-9554 What do you think? Tournament frenzy Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website, www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. Don’t forget to leave an opinion or comment. Last week’s question: Leading Republican candidates in last Tuesday’s presidential primary accused the others of encouraging Democratic voters to cross primary lines to vote Republican. Did you cross party lines with your vote? 17% 83% Yes No For this week: The NCAA men’s basketball championship begins next week, and both the University of Michigan and Michigan State University are expected to receive bids. Who do you think will go farther in the tournament? q Michigan State q Michigan �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 8, 2012 — Page 5 Hastings citizens need to keep watchful eye on school board IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV Barry Township still faces large sewer payment To the editor: You may have heard recently, that the Fair Lake Sewer Bond is expected to be almost $134,000 short by March 2017. The Barry Township Board asked the Southwest Barry County Sewer and Water Authority board to help cover the shortage. I would like to explain why. In 1993, the townships of Barry, Hope, Johnstown and Prairieville created a sewer contract (original bond) for the building and installation of a sewer system to serve Fine, Wall, Crooked and Pine lakes and part of Delton. The contract was “secured primarily by the full faith and credit contractual obligation of the townships.” The contract also spelled out the percent for which each township was responsible — Barry, 16.6 percent, Hope, 22.1 percent, Johnstown, 18.1 percent and Prairieville, 43.2 percent. When it was apparent that the bond would come up short on funds, the sewer authority board did not go back to the four townships for the funds. Instead the board placed monthly debt service fees on all customers and eventually used funds from septage intake fees (fees paid from septic tank pumping companies to empty their tanks) to pay off the debt. Sewer customers on Fair Lake have paid the same debt service fees since 1998 as have all other sewer customers. Every dollar paid toward the debt service fees went toward paying off the shortage on the original bond. Fair Lake customers from 1998 to 2011 paid $160,839 to help pay off the original bond. Mark Doster, sewer authority administrator, estimated that 25 percent of those dollars would be their share of common pipe and plant. So, Fair Lake customers paid $120,629 more than their share to help pay for the shortage on the original bond. This helped pay for sewer installation to Fine, Wall, Crooked and Pine lakes and part of Delton. When the original bond was still coming up short, the sewer authority board used $381,525 from septage intake fees from 2005 to 2010 to help cover the deficit. I think this should have been spread proportionally over three lake debts that were in existence at the time. This would split into the original bond, which was $358,039; the Fair Lake bond, $18,786; and the Long/Cloverdale Lake bond, $4,700. Debt service fees of $120,629 plus septage intake fees of $18,786 equals $139,415. Fair Lake customers contributed (over the amount for common pipe and plant) almost $140,000 to help pay off the original bond. The Barry Township Board asked for the customers who were helped by Fair Lake money to help cover the Fair Lake bond shortage of less than $134,000. I believe there are 2,199 sewer customers in the SWBCSWA and there are 2,052 tax parcels in Barry Township. Of the parcels that pay taxes to Barry Township, approximately 85 percent have no sewer access. Fair Lake customers are paying all the assessments and did pay all the debt service fees that were in their contract. Barry Township’s request to the sewer authority board has been turned down. The Barry Township board now needs to decide where the $133,670 will come from. (I am representing myself in this letter, facts and opinions and not the Barry Township Board.) Carol Price, Barry Township Emergency, rehab and other workers make a difference To the editor: Two years ago this week, March 5, 2010, I was involved in a very serious automobile accident in the Kalamazoo/Portage area. I go back to that accident today because of my thanks for the many people who, in situations every day just like mine, are rarely recognized, appreciated, or thanked. I think back to the emergency and first responders who secure difficult accident scenes like mine and move the injured to area health centers as quickly and with as much safety as possible. I think back to the personnel at those health care centers who often do their best work without a lot of medical information until a person’s family or friends can be contacted. Even the tow truck operators who so efficiently clear a scene and restore traffic flow go unappreciated for the wonderful work they do. In many cases, accident injuries can be severe, and the time it takes to recover in a hospital and then to work one’s way back, often with the assistance of a rehabilitation center, can take a toll on accident victims and their families. The rehabilitation and therapy process can give rise to an entirely new set of problems. Major accidents of any kind — even nonlife threatening — can pose a tough period because your whole life changes. It’s very difficult to change your method of doing things, from getting up from a chair to walking around a large area without the use of a wheelchair or walker. I have never said ‘thank you’ so much as I have in these past two years. I have never been so devoted to my wife and family. My advice to anyone, from my under-thesteering-wheel perspective, is to take the time to watch out for bad situations if you can and to not forget to thank the people who help you out. Life is short, don’t make it quicker. Families naturally get anxious for their injured members to be active again and to be doing things. They’re a greater healing aid to the injured person through their listening ear. Others may recognize someone’s hurting and are quick to open doors or who extend small and common courtesies. While I was in rehabilitation, I was inspired by some amazing people making their way back. They handled their everyday activities by keeping the right spirit and the right focus. Yes, many experienced bad times, but somehow they made progress. This is a teachable moment for everyone. Stephen Jacobs, Hastings Bowling should be offered as a sport To the editor: I noticed that Thornapple Kellogg, Wayland and Caledonia have bowling as a sport. Hastings should. The athletic director needs to realize that. According to the NCAA, bowling is a competitive sport. Hastings should offer it – they need to realize it’s not all about baseball, football, basketball, etc. Hastings recognizes cheerleading as a sport. Deb James, Hastings The Hastings Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Helen Mudry • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 To the editor: Many citizens residing in Barry County may or may not know that recently, the Hastings Board of Education took it upon itself to sell and convey the Pleasantview Elementary property to Goldsworthy Real Estate, for the menial price of $10,000, without obtaining a real estate appraisal and properly placing the school for sale on the real estate market. Monday, Feb. 27, I took it upon myself to call members of the school board and email them, attempting to sway their decisions to not sell the property for this amount. I was told, “We placed the property for sealed bid, and there were no offers.” The offer accepted was submitted after bidding had closed, and no further type of offer acceptance was opened to the public. In earlier months, an offer was brought to the board through a real estate company offering nearly three times the accepted amount. I also offered a higher amount than the accepted offer and another member of the commu- nity, “a neighbor to the school,” offered 2.25 times the accepted offer. Hastings school board members clearly cheated taxpayers and our children out of greatly needed funds for further education needs. Taxpayers need to keep an open ear and eye, and now voice their opinions on this development. I believe this could be a clear-cut case of misappropriate use of government funds in the form of real estate. Is there one board member educated in property value or real estate transactions? A Hastings Realtor showed up at the board of education meeting and attempted to sway their decision by convincing them the property had a greater value. I am positive not one citizen of Barry County will be able to locate a parcel of land in the vicinity, consisting of 10 acres and a useable building, for a mere sum of $10,000. In fact, the former Dowling Post Office, consisting of a lot and a small office building is being sold at $14,000. I would not be the least bit surprised in the coming years and elections to see Hastings Area Schools propose a higher millage to build another elementary school. Current government statistics show Hastings elementary schools are pushing full capacity and over on the student/teacher ratio. It seems to me that Pleasantview School could have relieved some of the current stress on the school system by just being used for the purpose it was built rather than being sold for null. Citizens still have options to contact our Michigan Legislature and members of the Hastings school board. Let your voice be heard. Most importantly, rethink who you vote to place on the board of education during the re-election process, or consider removing them and replacing them entirely. The children and taxpayers of Hastings Area Schools cannot afford to take poor decisions like this. Bonnie Prater, Assyria Township State News Roundup website for a full agenda and options for year is definitely a good sign … and up douonline participation. Also, the website ble digits … about 15 percent from the low Communities www.news.msue.msu.edu has information on point of 2009,” he said. But as with all things real estate, ‘Location, encouraged to take fisheries management and the Great Lakes. location, location’ is what matters. Villacorta said Grand Rapids’ home sale prices are up steps against bullying Michigan National about 6 percent compared with a year ago, while home prices in Lansing and Flint conResearch suggests that bullying is not nectinue to decline. essarily on the increase, but instead that Guard takes awareness of the issue has grown. “It’s not a new issue. Our awareness and in Cheboygan Rochester home concern has grown, as well as our knowledge about different kinds of bullying behaviors and the impacts these behaviors can have,” area residents to new National said Janet Olsen, Michigan State University Following a weekend of full-force winter Extension program leader. Historic Landmark With the signing of Public Act 241 of 2011, weather that left many Northern Michigan Michigan requires all schools to develop and enforce policies to protect students from harassment, intimidation and physical violence. Communities are supporting the act and taking steps of their own. MSU Extension will be hosting five halfday workshops throughout Michigan, educating community members about the ABCs (Addressing Bullying in Community Settings) of bullying prevention as part of a new Be SAFE (Safe, Affirming and Fair Environments) initiative. The nearest workshops are in Coldwater March 23 (to register, email Suzanne Pish, pishs@anr.msu.edu) and in Grand Rapids March 29 (mail Holly Tiret at tiret@anr.msu.edu) For more information about MSU Extension programs, visit www.msue.msu.edu, or call 888-678-3464. residents without power and other basic necessities, the Cheboygan Michigan National Guard armory opened its doors to citizens in need of shelter. The armory opened to stranded local residents Saturday afternoon and called the American Red Cross for help providing food and other personal care items. “The situation in Northern Michigan is serious,” said Maj. Gen. Gregory Vadnais, adjutant general of the Michigan National Guard and director of the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs in a press release issued Monday. “Some people are unable to get to their homes because of the deep snow; others are stranded without electricity or heat. The Michigan Army National Guard armory staff in Cheboygan saw a need, followed protocol, and stepped in to help almost immediately.” The armory will remain open as long as shelter is needed, he said. Michigan National Guard Soldiers are providing limited security. Identification is required to enter the building, and guests must check in and out if departure or re-entry is necessary. Fisheries managers to discuss Lake Michigan stocking policy This past fishing season proved to be a Housing market good one for Lake Michigan with more and may be improving bigger fish than in the previous year. “The kings were bigger, the cohos were bigger, and there were plenty of fish to go around,” said Daniel O’Keefe, Michigan State University Extension educator. The Quantitative Fisheries Center at MSU is working to identify possible outcomes under several different stocking policies. Some possible stocking options for Lake Michigan trout and salmon will be addressed during a public meeting at Lake Michigan College in Benton Harbor April 14. Fisheries managers from Michigan, Indiana, Illinois and Wisconsin will speak about the risks associated with each stocking option and will ask for input. Visit the Michigan Sea Grant According to Michigan Public Radio, there’s some good news for people planning to sell their homes here. During the past four years, home sale prices in Michigan have been on a roller coaster, mainly going down. But Clear Capitol reported Tuesday that Michigan home prices may finally be stabilizing. Alex Villacorta, with Clear Capitol, said an improving job picture, stronger consumer confidence and more investors buying cheap homes are all contributing to a more stable real estate market. “Bringing it back to Michigan, the fact that prices are actually up 1.2 percent over the last Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar Tuesday announced the designation of 13 new National Historic Landmarks in nine different states, including a site in the Detroit suburb of Rochester. Meadow Brook Hall, the only Michigan site among the 13 new entries, is a large early 20th century country estate that includes a large mansion inspired by British architectural precedents along with smaller residential buildings constructed in the same style. “These new listings will join approximately 2,500 other sites in the National Historic Landmark Program,” said National Park Service Director Jonathan B. Jarvis. “These places not only showcase our rich and complex history — from prehistoric time right up to the modern era — but they help drive tourism and boost local economies.” Additional information on the designations can be found at www.nps.gov/nhl. War of 1812 lecture series underway Known by many as the “Forgotten War,” the War of 1812 is on the path to resurgence 200 years later and heading straight for three major Michigan cities this March. This time, however, the battle cries come in the form of lectures by War of 1812 scholar Don Hickey, a history professor at Wayne State College, Wayne, Neb. Hickey gave presentations March 6 at Grand Valley State University and March 7 in Detroit. His presentation tonight, March 8, “Forgotten Conflict: Why the War of 1812 Matters Today,” will be presented at 7 p.m., at the Michigan Historical Center in Lansing. Admission to the Lansing lecture is free. For more information on the lecture series, email Dr. Jim McConnell, jam1776@sbcglobal.net. More information can be found at www.michigan.gov/war1812. HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, March 8 — Movie Memories celebrates the little gem “First Love,” 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, March 9 — preschool story time reads about picky eaters, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; teen Minute to Win It, 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday, March 10 — VITA tax counseling, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, March 12 — winter reading club for adults continues; computer class is taking on Microsoft Excel, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 13 — toddler story time enjoys St. Patrick’s Day, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30; open chess club, 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, March 14 — Terrific Tweens have a grand time with leaping Leprechauns. Call the library for more information about any of the above, 269-945-4263. �Page 6 — Thursday, March 8, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Call 945-9554 any time for Hastings Banner classified ads Worship Together… Area Obituaries Warren J. Williams Nancy Homrich Donald Paul Werner HASTINGS, MI - Warren J. Williams, age 90, of Hastings, passed away Friday, March 2, 2012 at his residence. He was born October 21, 1921 in Emerson Township, the son of Walter and Sylvia (Welch) Williams. Warren attended Alma High School and later Central Michigan University, graduating in 1943. He was a member of the University Choir, track team and gymnastic team. Warren joined the Navy and was called to active duty September of 1943. He was commissioned in February of 1944. Warren served as a PT Boat squadron commander in the Panama Canal zone and was honorably discharged in 1946. Warren settled in Hastings after World War II. He taught vocal music at Hastings High School. Warren started several successful businesses in Hastings, which included insurance, real estate and floor covering. He was a past member of the Hastings Kiwanis Club, Elks and the American Legion. Warren was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Gilbert Williams. Warren is survived by his wife, Susanne K. Williams; and children, Sharon (Steve) Hobson of Greyslake, IL, David (Mary) Williams of Hastings; Jim (Mary) Williams of Hastings, Carol (Joe) Schnurr of Hastings and Bert (Deb) Torres of Caledonia; 17 grandchildren and 27 great grandchildren. Respecting Warren’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be announced and held at a later date. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a message or memory to the family. HASTINGS, MI - Nancy Homrich, age 59, of Hastings, passed away on Sunday, March 4, 2012 in Grand Rapids as a result of an automobile accident. She was born in Grand Rapids on October 30, 1952 to Alfred W. and Virginia (Wyatt) Hewitt. She received her Master’s Degree in Counseling from Western Michigan University. She met Michael Homrich in 1980 and they were married on August 7, 1982 in Grand Rapids at Fountain Street Church. He was her best friend and the love of her life. He preceded her in death on August 31, 2000. She loved gardening and nature. She also loved to spend her time with lifelong friends and her dogs, Kayla and Yoda. Nancy is survived by her children, Kristin Lundstrom, Michael Homrich II, Christopher Homrich, Angela (Mark) Kunze and Scott Homrich; mother, Virginia Hewitt; brothers, Jim (Louise) Hewitt, Steve Hewitt and Roger (Patti) Hewitt; grandchildren, Chris Koob, Olivia Homrich, Noah Kunze and Kaitlyn Homrich. She was also preceded in death by her father, Alfred Hewitt. According to her wishes cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, March 8, 2012 at 11 a.m. at Lauer Family Funeral Home - Wren Chapel, 1401 N. Broadway in Hastings with the Reverend Dr. Robert Livingston officiating. A reception will follow in the community room at the funeral home. Please share a memory with Nancy’s family at www.lauerfh.com. HASTINGS, MI - Donald Paul Werner, age 77, of Hastings passed away Thursday, March 1, 2012. He was born March 3, 1934 in Muskegon, the son of Leo Werner and Martha (Aberlate) Vanburgen. Don honorably served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War. He married Louise (Allard) Werner and later Hazel (Hilton) Werner, both marriages ending in divorce. He then married Barbara McDowell Werner and together, they were married over 20 years. Don worked in construction for many years, at Lear-Siegler and after retirement was a greeter at the Hastings Wal-Mart for 10 years. Don was a rocket football coach in his earlier years, he was an avid sports fan, loved gospel and country music and spending time with family and friends. He was a member of the Good Shepard Lutheran Church and the American Legion, Hastings Post #45. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Barbara Jean Werner in 2006; his parents; infant son, Donald P. Werner Jr. and half brother, Leo Werner. Don is survived by his loving children, Donna (Dave) Rogers, Kim (Jesse) Berg, Rick (Pamela) Werner, Tammy Werner and Jodi (Patrick) Plite; step-children, Jerry Raak, Gary (Carol) Raak and Ricky Raak; grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Melissa Rogers, Mandy Howard, David Rogers, Jesse Berg, Jamie Berg, Joe Shuker, Danielle (Erik) Garcia, Jessica Shuker, Andrew (Rachel) Mather, Jacob Plite, Taylor Werner, Sarah Ream, Brandi Plite, Eric Werner, Spencer Hallock, Dillon Berg, Connor Plite, Bradee McCoy, Kale Rogers and twins, Isaiah and Elijah Rogers; several loving step great-grandchildren and step grandchildren as well as nieces, nephews and many special friends. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, Great Lakes Division, Inc., Attn: Memorial and Tribute Gifts, 1755 Abbey Rd., East Lansing, MI 48823. Visitation and funeral services were held Thursday, March 8, 2012 at Girrbach Funeral Home. Pastor Jim Roemke officiated the service. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guestbook or to leave a message or memory to the family. 77566213 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. ORANGEVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH 6921 Marsh Rd., 2 miles south of Gun Lake, Plainwell. Phone 269664-4377. OrangevilleBaptist. org. Pastors Dan Bowman and Adam Parmenter. Sundays - 9:45--10:45 a.m. “Dealing With Your Past” March through May. March 25 - 6 p.m. “Messiah in the Passover’ Seder Meal. March 31 - 7 p.m. Orangeville Cafe. April 8 - 7:30 & 11 a.m. Easter Celebration. April 22-27 - Evangelist Will Rice. Children, teen and adult Sunday School classes; 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Worship; 5:30 p.m. Junior and Senior High Word of Life Clubs. Tuesday - 9 a.m. Men’s Prayer and Bible Study. Wednesday - 6:30 p.m. Pre-school through 6th grade Word of Life Gophers & Olympians. Prayer & Bible Study - 7 p.m. 6 p.m. Teen Word of Life. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Paul Osborn, Minister of Music; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service, Jr. & Sr. High Groups. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. HASTINGS SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH 904 Terry Lane, Hastings (or on the corner of Starr School Road and Terry Lane.) Phone: (269) 9452170. Pastor Michael Wise. Sabbath www.hastingssda.com (Saturday) School 9:30 a.m.; worship service 10:50 a.m. Mid-week meetings informal study and prayer service, Wednesdays 7 p.m. Youth ministry clubs, Adventurers for preschool to 4th grade students and Pathfinders for 5th grade students through high school, meet on the first and third Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. and first and third Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. respectively. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. CHURCH OF THE LIVING GOD A full gospel church. 1240 W. State Rd., Hastings. Pastor Doug Davis. 269-948-9740. Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study 6 p.m. Sunday School and Youth Group for all ages. Come and worship the Lord with us! . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Phone 269-721-8077. Minister Ryan Wieland 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Praise Worship Service; Noon alternate weekends Youth Group Tuesday. Covenant Prayer Group, Wednes-day 6:30 p.m., Choir Practice. Thursday 7 p.m. Praise Band Practice. 2nd and 4th Thursdays at 7 p.m. Christ’s Quilters. Friday 6:30 p.m., CPRChrist’s Plan for Recovery (meal served). For more information small groups, special evnts or if you have a prayer requst, call the church office and see postings on WEB site: www.countrychapel.umc.org. SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Cronk cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 2 p.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-797-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nash-ville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 or -517-852-1806. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS REFORMED CHURCH “A Historic Reformed Community.” Sunday morning services begin at 10 a.m. Meeting at the Barry County Commission on Aging building, 320 W. Woodlawn Ave., Hastings. Pastor: Peter Adams. 616-690-8609 padams@juno.com. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 9:15 Contemporary Worship, 10:30 a.m. Refreshments, 11 a.m. Traditional Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Pastor of Senior Adults and Visitation, Don Brail. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. for children, youths and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Senior High Youth Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Mid-Week: 6:30-7:45 p.m. Pioneer Clubs, age 4th to 5th grade, and Junior High Youth Group, 6th-8th grade. Thursday: 10 a.m. Senior Adult Discussion and 11:30 a.m., lunch at Wendy’s. FAMILY FUNERAL HOMES GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Sunday, March 11 - Worship at 8 & 10:45 a.m. Sunday School at 9:30 a.m.. Holy Communion Every Sunday! March 11 - Men’s AA at 7 p.m. March 12 - Adventurers Bible Study at 7 p.m. March 14 Wordwatchers Bible Study at 10 a.m.; Lenten Supper 6 p.m.; Taize Lenten Worship 7 p.m. March 15 Clapper Kids Bell Choir at 3:45 p.m.; Adult Choir at 7 p.m.; Hareraisers at 7 p.m. 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 9452645, fax 269-945-2698. Pastor Amy Luckeyhttp://www.discovergrace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 10 a.m. Sunday School for All Ages; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service; 6 p.m. Youth Group; 6 p.m. Small Group Study. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blog spot.com. Thursday - 9 a.m. Men’s Bible Study; 11:30 Women’s Brown Bag Bible Study; 6:30 p.m. Choir Rehearsal. Friday - 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday - 8:30 a.m. Men’s Breakfast Series; 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday - 4 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Tuesday - 1 p.m. Lenten Bible Study; 6:30 p.m. Women’s Bible Study. Wednesday - 5 p.m. Pickleball. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Fiberglass Products Lauer Family Funeral Homes 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 Marvin Dean Kantner Vernon E. Thalmann Marvin Dean Kantner, age 81, took the hands of an Angel on February 28, 2012, and joined Heaven's choir. Marvin was born on March 31, 1930 to Guy and Bernice Kantner. He lived most of his adult life on the family's Centennial Farm in Woodland. Marvin graduated from Woodland High School, and in 1951, married Ella Katherine Enness, his wife of 60 years. After serving in the Army, Marvin came home to work the family farm, and took a job with GenCorp, in Ionia, where he spent 36 years before retiring. Marvin was a member of the Brethren Church, where he was a soloist and sang in the church choir. He was a devoted member of the Lion's Club. Marvin and Ella wintered for 19 years in their home in Englewood, FL before moving there permanently in 2009. Marvin was preceeded in death by his parents; his sister, Jean Wellfare; and his beloved son, Michael. He is survived by his wife Ella; his daughter Tamera (Bill) Yates; his son Erik (Kellie) Kantner; seven grandchildren and three great grandchildren. A memorial service and interment into Woodland Cemetery will be held in the spring. Prior notification will be made available. The family requests that those who wish to make a memorial contribution, to please consider a hospice in your area. DELTON, MI - Vernon E. Thalmann, of Delton, passed away February 29, 2012, at Borgess Medical Center in Kalamazoo. Vern was born April 15, 1924, in Ottertail, MN, the son of Fritz and Emma (Cordes) Thalmann. A veteran of World War II, Vern proudly served his country in the US Navy. Vern taught for a year in the Gull Lake School District, and then was a dedicated employee of Kellogg's of Battle Creek. A member of V.F.W. Post 422 in Delton, Vern enjoyed gardening. He loved to watch high school sports and to play softball, as he played when he was in his eighties. On October 14, 1954, he married Betty J. Pidd, who survives. Other members of his family include children, Beth (Rick) Herington, Dan Thalmann, Betsy (Pat) Leavel, Don (Jina) Thalmann and Becky (Eric) Lapham, a brother, Verle (Roberta) Thalmann; sisters, Ruth Brenner, Judy (Robert) Pufall, and Eunice Rogien; 11 grandchildren and three great grandchildren. Vern was preceded in death by his parents; an infant grandson, Bradley Lapham and sisters, Marjorie Wagner and Marcella Rehbein. A funeral service was conducted, Monday, March 5, 2012, at Williams-Gores Funeral Home in Delton. Burial took place in East Hickory Corners Cemetery. Memorial contributions to the Delton Athletic Boosters will be appreciated. Please visit www.williamsgoresfuneral. com to view and sign Vern's online guest book. Sammie Massingill NASHVILLE, MI - Sammie Massingill, age 61, of Nashville, passed away at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 1, 2012 at Butterworth Hospital, Grand Rapids following a short illness. Sammie was born to the late Ray and Edith Brafford on November 14, 1950. She married Gary Massingill on April 2, 1985. Sammie is survived by her husband, Gary Massingill; her children, Cindy (Scott) Mills, Michael Mutchie, Steven (Sarah) Mutchie; three grandchildren, Brandon (Sara) Mills, Corey Mills, Annie Mutchie; three great grandchildren, Aessa Mills, Jolzan Mills and Coutana Mills; sisters, Jenny (Ray) Danilowicz, Laura (Dale) Bowen, Helen (Frank) Abbott; brothers, Stanley Brafford, and Michael (Shelly) Brafford; many nieces and nephews Sammie was preceded in death by her parents, her daughter Michelle Mutchie, and her nephew Robby DeBusk. In keeping with Sammie’s wishes, she was cremated. A memorial service was held on Tuesday, March 5, 2012, at 381 Jackson Street, Sunfield. Keep your friends and relatives informed! Send them a gift subscription to The Hastings BANNER To subscribe, call us at 269-945-9554 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 8, 2012 — Page 7 Richard D. Barnum HICKORY CORNERS, MI - Richard D. Barnum, of Hickory Corners, passed away March 3, 2012. Richard was born December 24, 1933 in Grand Rapids, the son of Harold and Frances (Butler) Barnum. A Deputy and Road Sergeant with the Barry County Sheriff's Department for 30 years, Richard was also a member of the Hickory Corners Fire Department with 45 years of service where he served in many positions including fire chief. A life member of Hickory Corners Masonic Lodge 345, where he was secretary for many years and former past master, Richard was also a life member of the Eastern Star, and a former Barry Township supervisor. Richard enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping and coaching baseball for his sons’ Little League teams. On September 12, 1970, Richard married the love of his life, the former Betty Gates who survives. He is also survived by his sons, Harold (Kathleen) Barnum and Dennis (Sue) Barnum; a daughter, Judy (Dan) Alkema; his special dog, Murphy; his mother-in-law, Alice Gates; a sister-in-law, Berna Barnum; six grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Richard was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Harold Barnum and a sister, Ruth DeVries. The family received friends Tuesday, March 6, at the Williams-Gores Funeral Home, Delton where a Masonic Service was conducted. A funeral service was conducted Wednesday, March 7, 2012, at Hickory Corners Bible Church, Pastor Jeff Worden officiating. Burial took place in East Hickory Corners Cemetery. Memorial contributions to Hickory Corners Fire Club will be appreciated. Please visit www.williamsgoresfuneral.com to view and sign Richard's online guest book. Vicki Jean Goodenough-Rutzebeck Veva Arlene (Hunt) McGeorge HASTINGS, MI - Veva Arlene (Hunt) McGeorge, of Hastings, formerly of Laingsburg, passed away March 6, 2012 at the age of 93. She was a resident of Woodlawn Meadows in Hastings. Veva was the second of five children born to Lewis and Alta (Baker) Hunt on December 28, 1918 in St. Louis. She grew up in the Lansing area and graduated from Eastern High School in 1937. During the 1940s she worked at Diamond Rio. In 1947 she met Vernon McGeorge and they married August of 1948. The marriage ended in divorce in 1969. She worked for Michigan State University until her retirement in 1994. Veva had a passion for dancing and travel her whole life. She was very health conscious and exercised before it was trendy. She lived in Germany for a year in 1955 and had visited most of the states at least once. She moved to Laingsburg in 1956 and lived there until moving to the Hastings area in 2005. She was preceded in death by son, James in 1993; daughter, Mary Lovell in 2002; sister, Emogene Frantz in 1980; brother, Leo in 1985; brother, Howard in 2003; sister, Vivian Leavitt in 2011; and former husband, Vernon in 1993. Veva is survived by sons, Roy (Cindy) McGeorge, and Thomas McGeorge both of Lansing; daughter, Joyce (Robert) Ridge of Lake Odessa; grandchildren, Andrea Clowes, Megan (Eric) Harrison, Michelle McGeorge, Corina Lovell, Greg (Maribelle) Lovell, Jack (Amanda) Lovell, Cally (Shawn) Carter, Charmain (Ed) Santana, Jolene (Todd) Kidder and Janelle Ridge; eight great grandsons; eight great granddaughters as well as a ninth great granddaughter arriving in July. A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, March 9, 2012 at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, 900 E. Michigan Ave., Lansing. The family will receive friends for a memorial visitation one hour prior to the service. Those desiring may make contributions to the charity of one’s choice in memory of Veva. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.grlansing.com. Mary Louise Brimmer Cheryl Mills HASTINGS, MI - Mary Louise Brimmer, of Hastings, passed away on Saturday, March 3, 2012 at Pennock Hospital. She was born to Howard R. and Dorothy M. (Robinson) Moffett in Seville Township. She was raised in the Alma area where she grew up on a farm. She attended Alma schools and graduated from Alma High School in 1955. She met Walter Brimmer in 1956 and they were married in August of 1958. They lived in Vermontville for two years until moving to Nashville, then finally settling at the farm in 1965 where they currently reside. She loved to read books and use the computer. She had several pen pals she enjoyed corresponding with. Mary enjoyed going to the Farm Days in Prairieville, going to plays at Cornwell’s Dinner Theater in Turkeyville and visiting Frankenmuth. She was also a Red Hat Lady. Mary is survived by her husband, Walter; daughter, Sandra; sister, Merna (Jim) Seaman of The Woodlands, TX; brother, Russell (Illa) Moffett of Big Rapids; many nieces and nephews; canine companions, Trevor and Dakota; feline companion, Spunky. She was preceded in death by her parents; son, Brent; daughter, Susan; and her service dog, Sybil. Visitation will be held on Friday, March 9, 2012 from 10 a.m. until time of service at 11 a.m. at Lauer Family Funeral Home – Wren Chapel, 1401 N. Broadway in Hastings. Interment will follow in Seville Center Cemetery. Please consider a donation to the Barry County Humane Society in Mary’s name. Please share a memory with Mary’s family at www.lauerfh.com. FAMILY FUNERAL HOMES Betty Louise (Smith) Brecheisen GUN LAKE, MI - Cheryl Mills, age 67, of Gun Lake, succumbed to pancreatic cancer on February 29, 2012. She was born in New London, WI and moved to Michigan where she spent the last several years, living on the lake she loved. Left behind to cherish her spirit are her husband, love of her life, Tom; her sister, Sandra Wilson; her children, Theron (Linda) Storey, Stephany Storey, Brandon Andersen, Kris (Christy) Andersen, Miggon (Brent) Wilson, Erin Mills, and Samantha Mills; and four grandchildren, Rikki Fox, Payton Wilson, Elexia and Tristan Andersen; and her father-in-law, Samuel Mills. Cheryl’s fervor for life and her drive for success allowed her to achieve goals both in business and family. She helped initiate Art in the Park in Lake Odessa, wrote federal and state grants for housing and community development in four counties, successfully bred and trained Arabs and Tennessee Walkers. Family, friends, and traditions were extremely important to her as well as living a healthy lifestyle. Travel was an integral part of life the past several years, visiting places in Mexico, Caribbean, and Costa Rica, experiencing the local culture. Every time she traveled she would take an extra suitcase of clothing to give to the people of that locale. Her love of gardening with attention to detail made her gardens majestic. Her zest for life was contagious, her uniqueness could not be ignored, and a passion for family and friends will never be forgotten. In lieu of flowers, a donation to Faith Hospice (www.faithhospice.org) or Pancreatic Cancer Research (www.pancan.org) would be appreciated. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message to the family. BELDING, MI - Betty Louise (Smith) Brecheisen, age 87, of Belding passed away March 7, 2012 at home. She was born in Hastings Township, Hastings, on January 23, 1925, the daughter of Orlo W. and Nettie (Faas) Smith. Betty received her teaching degree from Western Michigan University. She married Charles M. Brecheisen on July 14, 1946. They moved to Belding in 1957 where they owned Brecheisen Pharmacy until retirement in 1979. Betty is survived by her children, Barbara E. (Kenneth) Bankwitz of Dearborn, Alan C. (Lorna) Brecheisen of Lake Odessa and Jon T. (Julie) Brecheisen of Grand Rapids; grandchildren, Hans, Karl (Rebecca) and Peter Bankwitz, Katie, Matthew and Daniel Brecheisen; great grandchildren, Haley and Hayden Bankwitz; siblings, John J. Smith, James (Luella) Smith all of Woodland, Jack M. (Betty) Smith of Sunfield, Jacqueline M. (Keith) Dinda of Schoolcraft, Judy Y. (Douglas) MacKenzie of Woodland and a brother-in-law, Martin Hrebenar. Betty was preceded in death by her husband, Charles; parents; sister, Lynette M. Hrebenar. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 10, 2012 at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Belding with Pastor Robert Wagner officiating. Committal prayers will be 3 p.m. Saturday at Freeport Cemetery, Freeport. Visitation will be Friday, March 9, 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. at Johnson-Feuerstein Funeral Home, Belding. Memorial contributions may be given to the Belding Museum. To leave a message of condolence for the Brecheisen family, please visit the website of the funeral home, www.jffh.com. Bedford Order of Eastern Star #471 CORNBEEF & CABBAGE DINNER 77566344 Licensed / Insured / Local Bedford Masonic Center Call Scott 517-290-5556 • 877-448-1548 Certified Financial Planning Randy Teegardin, CFP.® Hastings City Bank Trust and Investment Group 77566275 FREE Consultation & Estimates! ALSO EGRESS WINDOWS / MOLD REMEDIATION HELP WANTED Diamond Propane, located in Woodland is looking for a parttime Customer Service Representative. Flexible hours – 4 hours average per day, $9.00 per hour. • Knowledge of social media platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, etc • Strong business acumen with a documented history of success • Demonstrated technical skills in online commerce and development • Superior communication skills with strong attention to detail Mail Your Resume to: Investment opportunities include non deposit investments which are: Not FDIC Insured Not Bank Guaranteed May Lose Value Diamond Propane LLC 301 East Broadway Woodland, MI 48897 Attention: Randy Hart 77566177 PLYMOUTH, MI - Frances L. Bauer, age 94, of Plymouth, passed away March 3, 2012. She was the beloved wife of the late George; loving mother of George-Ann Golem, Mary Frances (Frank) Sawyer, and David Taylor (Susan); proud grandmother of Suzanne Black, Patrick Golem, Robert Golem, Scott Golem, Michal Bauer and seven great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held Saturday, March 10, 2012 at 11 a.m. at Vermeulen Funeral Home, 46401 W. Ann Arbor Rd., (between Sheldon and Beck), Plymouth. Visitation Friday, March 9 from 4-9 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment at Riverside Cemetery in Hastings. Frances Lucile Sage was born on November 4, 1917 to Frank and Elsie of Hastings. She was actively involved in the education of the children. She served on the Girl Scout Council and was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, the Plymouth Womens Club and the Arts Council. Memorial contributions may be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Plymouth, 701 Church Street, Plymouth, MI 48170. To share memories, please visit vermeulenfuneralhome.com. 269-945-2401 150 W. Court St. Hastings, MI 49058 No phone calls please. HASTINGS AUTOMATIC H EATING & PLUMBING Ray L. Girrbach Owner/Director 2165 W. M-43 HWY. HASTINGS, MI 49058 945-5769 269- 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 Residential & Commercial • 269-945-3252 Serving Hastings, Barry County and Surrounding Communities for 45 years New Furnaces, A.C. Units, Boilers, Water Heaters, In-Floor Heating, Repairs. •Traditional and Cremation Services •Pre-Planning Services All Your Heating & Plumbing Needs •Large Parking Lot - Handicap Accessible •Serving All Faiths •Pre-arrangement Transfers Accepted SERVING BARRY COUNTY OVER 50+ YEARS LICENSED & INSURED 77566160 MONTICELLO, IA - Vicki Jean Goodenough-Rutzebeck of Monticello, IA and formerly of Hastings, MI, passed away unexpectedly on February 29, 2012 at her home. She rests in the hands of her loving savior. Vicki was born April 17, 1954 the daughter of Gail Ann Herbstreith-Wallace and Richard Harry Goodenough. Vicki’s biggest love was her family, especially her grandchildren. She enjoyed gardening, gambling and shopping. Vicki was preceded in death by her daughter, Danielle Masten; grandparents, Hal and Anna Herbstreith and stepfather, Robert Wallace. Vicki is survived by her husband, Herbert “Bud” Rutzebeck; daughters, Erica (Andrew) Naber and Tara (Larry) Blackburn; sons, Matt (Lisa) Rutzebeck, Ben Rutzebeck, Kris Rutzebeck, Andy Rutzebeck, and Phillip Masten; grandchildren, Ryan (Army Specialist), Gracie, Morgen, Memphis, Hunter and Shania; mother, Gail Wallace; father, Richard (Betty) Goodenough; siblings, Sandy (Mark) Bowen, Daniel (Cheryl) Goodenough, Tammy (Wes) Thompson, Dennis Goodenough, Steve Goodenough, Don Goodenough, Mike Goodenough; and many aunts, uncles, nieces nephews and cousins. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Girrbach Funeral Home to assist the family with funeral expenses. Visitation and funeral services were held Monday, March 5, 2012. Bill Storm officiated the service. Burial followed funeral services at Dowling Cemetery in Dowling. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc. in Hastings, please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a message or memory to the family. Saturday, March 10 Serving from 5 pm - 7 pm Adults $9 / Children 10 & under $4 Call 269-963-8737 for more info. 77566157 Frances L. Bauer Family Owned and Operated www.girrbachfuneralhome.net �Page 8 — Thursday, March 8, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of by Elaine Garlock Wednesday, March 14, the women’s Fellowship of First Congregational Church will meet at 1 p.m. in the church dining room. There will be a video presentation. Tonight, the Lake Odessa Area Historical Society will meet at the depot complex at 6:30 to car pool to the Welch Historical Museum in Sunfield to tour the new facility, complete with its own log cabin. For a fledgling group, they have made great strides in filling their building. Many of their activities are designed to appeal to children, so they are growing their own successors. The Souper Supper at Fellowship Hall of Central United Methodist Church each Thursday has increased to the point where last week, 95 meals were served or taken out. This serves people who stop in at noon for afternoon respite care and stay until 4:30 p.m. The dining room is then ready for the respite people and their caregivers to either eat on site or take meals home. Others join to eat on site and also take out meals. The menu is varied. Leona Raynor has a capable crew to help. They bake desserts and prepare the hot food. The railroad has had reasons to stop here for switching cars. One recent day, one could see five freight cars on the siding of Caledonia Elevator, four refrigerator cars on the siding of Twin City Foods, three cars of cotton seed on another elevator siding waiting to be delivered to dairy farms. Now two of the cars with open tops have been emptied and gone from the siding and a new car was just opened Tuesday. The genealogy society will meet at 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 10. The presenter will be someone from Manna’s Market in Woodland. West Elementary School is hosting a carnival at the West Gym Saturday, March 10, from noon to 4 p.m. with face painting, games, bounce house and candy guessing games. Can spring be far behind? Caledonia Farmers Elevator here in town and the Clarksville Feed store are advertising their chick days when customers can order baby chicks. Social News Marriage Licenses Dustin Lee Davis, Nashville and Nicole Marie Nevins, Nashville. Smiths to celebrate 40th wedding anniversary Robert and Kathleen Smith were united in marriage on March 11, 1972 at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Leo J. Oliver of Freeport. They have two sons, Joshua and Isaac and five grandchildren. Cards may be sent to 891 Hammond Rd., Hastings, MI 49058. Newborn Babies Elizabeth Grace, born at Pennock Hospital on Feb. 22, 2012 at 12:07 p.m. to Katie and Jason Shong of Lake Odessa. Weighing 8 lbs. 10 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Aaron Lee, born at Pennock Hospital on Feb. 27, 2012 at 7:33 p.m. to Taylor and Levi Byington of Ionia. Weighing 8 lbs. 2 ozs. and 19 3/4 inches long. ASSYRIA TOWNSHIP RESIDENTS On Friday, March 30, 2012 at 7:30 pm, Assyria Township will be conducting the following meetings at the Assyria Township Hall on 8094 Tasker Road, Bellevue, MI Budget Hearing. A copy of the budget may be obtained by contacting the Clerk at 269-758-4003 and will also be available at the meeting. Annual Meeting for Assyria Township will be held immediately following the Budget Hearing Regular Meeting will be held following the Annual Meeting. This meeting will be held to approved the Fiscal Year 2013 budget and will be in lieu of the regularly scheduled meeting that would normally be held on April 2, 2012. There will be no meeting on April 2, 2012. Debbie Massimino 77566196 Assyria Township Clerk Assyria Township Board of Review NOTICE OF MEETING Become familiar with these five key areas As an investor, what are your goals? You can probably think of quite a few — but over the course of your lifetime, your objectives typically will fall into five key categories. And once you’re familiar with these areas, you can start thinking of what they’ll mean to you in terms of your financial and investment strategies. So, let’s take a look at each of these areas and see what they might entail for you: • Preparing for retirement — With advances in health care and a greater awareness of healthy living practices, many of us can expect to live two or three decades in an active retirement. To pay for all those years, you’ll need to save and invest early and often. So, while you’re working, take full advantage of your 401(k) or other employer-sponsored Basic biology implicated in wild spending spree by Dr. E. Kirsten Peters It’s pretty common for us little peanuts to feel some envy about the wealthy and better-known citizens among us. Who, after all, wouldn’t want to be a millionaire? But recently the news carried a piece about Ed Bazinet, 68, a wealthy New Yorker who went on a wild spending spree that ran into the millions of dollars. His problem, it turns out, is the brain malady known as manic depression, or bipolar disorder. According to ABC News, Bazinet spent five days buying millions of dollars’ worth of furniture, art and knick-knacks before he realized his behavior was owing to mania and he checked himself in for treatment. Medical science has long recognized that wild spending is a classic sign of the manic phase of mood and energy that people with bipolar disorder must sometimes contend with. Such sprees can be disastrous to a person’s finances, obviously, and they can also be deeply embarrassing. While an American in more typical circumstances than Bazinet may go through a modest spending spree, say racking up thousands of dollars of bills on a credit card, the scale of Bazinet’s spending and his fame in New York meant that his personal problem became public news. Still, it could be that some good can flow from Bazinet’s difficult experience. As his publicist put it, “There is no shame with seeking help for this treatable illness, and we hope that this opens a dialog to educate others.” Manic depression is not a disease of just modern times. Going back all the way to ancient Greece, there are medical descriptions of people with strongly alternating periods of energy and moods. Early doctors noted that a person could be “high” and then “low” in quick succession, with alternating periods of tears and euphoria. Indeed, in what are now called mixed states, people can experience ups and downs that are strongly interlaced with each other. The bipolar brain, if you will, can run the upside as well as the downside chemistry at pretty much the same time. Like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder tends to show up in adolescents and young adults. It cuts down people — including some very able ones — just as they are really coming into their own. The good news is that doctors are now more likely to recognize bipolar symptoms earlier than they once did. And early treatment can lead to better outcomes for the individuals. But that’s hardly to say everything is rosy in the bipolar world. Some people with manic-depressive disorder experience more than just highs and lows. In extreme cases, patients can suffer psychotic symptoms, such as visual or auditory hallucinations. That fact makes the disease deeply scary, both for the person experiencing it and for friends and family members. Modern medical science is making progress in identifying fundamental genetic factors that influence who gets the disorder. The science indicates that bipolar disorder runs in families not because of poor parenting (nurture), but because of biological factors (nature) wrapped up in genes handed down from one generation to another. A wider appreciation of this basic fact is helping to combat some of the stigma that still clings to mental illness in our society. Lithium was the first medicine that helped many people with bipolar disorder. The next group of drugs doctors found useful were anti-seizure medications. In recent years, drugs with the challenging name atypical antipsychotics have been found to help many people. In one respect, Mr. Bazinet in New York is lucky. Because he is wealthy, he is able to get treatment for his condition, including medications that can cost a pretty penny. But even if a person can afford them, medicines prescribed for bipolar illness are often not easy to take. Side effects are real and can be debilitating. It takes time and work for doctors and patients alike to find the best medicines for a particular individual. That’s true for both Medicaid patients and millionaires. Pharmaceutical companies continue to create new medications that can treat bipolar disorder better and with fewer side effects. We can only hope they are increasingly successful. Dr. E. Kirsten Peters, a native of the rural Northwest, was trained as a geologist at Princeton and Harvard universities. Follow her online at rockdoc.wsu.edu. This column is a service of the College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences at Washington State University. The Assyria Township Board of Review will meet at the Township Hall, 8060 Tasker Road, Bellevue, Michigan on Tuesday, March 6, 2012 at 7pm to receive the Tax Rolls. The Assyria Township Board of Review will meet at the Township hall on the following dates to hear protests: Monday, March 12, 2012 Tuesday, March 13, 2012 Thursday, March 15, 2012 9am – 12pm and 2pm – 6pm 6pm – 9pm 6pm – 9pm The Board of Review will also meet Tuesday, March 20, 2012 at 6pm to complete Board of Review business. The tentative ratios and estimated multiplier sor each class of real property for 2012 are as follows: Ratio Multiplier Agricultural 53.00% .9433 Commercial 52.81% .9467 Industrial 48.50% 1.0309 Residential 50.89% .9825 Individuals with disabilities requesting assistance should place their request to Debbie Massimino, Assyria Township Clerk 269-758-4003. 77566199 EDWARD JONES NOTICE OF INVITATION TO BID ASSYRIA TOWNSHIP SEXTON The Township of Assyria, Barry County Michigan has four cemeteries. Terms and conditions for this bid are available in the “Cemetery” section of the Assyria Township website www.assyriatwp.org Assyria Township invites interested parties to submit proposals to the Assyria Township Supervisor at 7415 Wolf Road, Bellevue, MI 49021. Proposals must be received by the Supervisor no later than 5pm Friday, April 27, 2012. 77566190 retirement plan, as well as contribute to a traditional or Roth IRA. After understanding your desired retirement lifestyle, your financial advisor can help you determine how, and how much, to save to provide for your income in retirement. • Planning for the unexpected — You can’t see into the future, so you’ll need to prepare for anything that comes your way. By building an emergency fund containing six to 12 months’ worth of living expenses, you can possibly avoid dipping into your long-term investments to pay for things such as a new furnace or a major car repair. And planning for the unexpected also means having sufficient life insurance to provide for your family in case anything happens to you. • Educating your children — College is already expensive — and college expenses have been rising faster than the overall rate of inflation. If you want to help your children, or grandchildren, pay for school, you may want to invest in a college savings vehicle, such as the 529 plan. You can contribute large amounts to a 529 plan, and earnings have the opportunity to grow tax-free, provided withdrawals are used for higher education. (Withdrawals not used for education are subject to income taxes and a 10 percent penalty.) • Living in retirement — Once you reach retirement, your investment emphasis will shift somewhat, from accumulating resources to making them last. By working with a financial advisor, you can develop a withdrawal strategy that can help make sure you don’t outlive the income you receive from your 401(k), IRA and other sources. At the same time, given the possible length of your retirement, you can’t ignore the need to invest for growth, so you may need to consider some growth-oriented vehicles in your portfolio to help your income keep pace with inflation. • Transferring your wealth — When you’ve worked hard your whole life, you want to be able to leave a legacy — one that allows you to provide financial resources to the next generation and to those charitable organizations you may wish to support. So, when it’s time to think about transferring your wealth, you’ll want to consult with your financial and legal advisors to create an estate plan that’s appropriate for your needs. And because these plans can take significant time to create, you won’t want to wait too long to start. So, there you have them: five key financial areas on which to focus as you travel through life. By doing your homework, planning ahead and getting the help you need, you can make the journey a pleasant and productive one. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 30.08 +.06 AT&T 30.73 +.20 BP PLC 46.23 -1.61 CMS Energy Corp 21.41 -.04 Coca-Cola Co 68.76 -.09 Eaton 48.70 -3.81 Family Dollar Stores 55.42 +1.26 Fifth Third Bancorp 12.94 -.68 Flowserve CP 112.31 -6.70 Ford Motor Co. 12.09 -.14 General Mills 38.36 +.27 General Motors 24.58 -1.56 Intel Corp. 26.61 -.63 Kellogg Co. 51.84 -.49 McDonald’s Corp 99.89 +.11 Pfizer Inc. 21.25 +.04 Ralcorp 73.42 -1.60 Sears Holding 73.42 +4.69 Spartan Motors 5.32 -.31 Spartan Stores 17.68 -.50 Stryker 52.03 -2.53 TCF Financial 10.29 -.56 Walmart Stores 58.97 +.04 Gold $1,674.48 -$111.45 Silver $32.93 -$3.99 -246 Dow Jones Average 12,759 Volume on NYSE 821M +114M NOTICE The Barry County Board of Commissioners is seeking applications from volunteers to serve on the following Boards/Commissions: Agricultural Preservation Board: Natural Resource Conservation representation (2 positions) Building Authority: (1 position) Oversight Committee: Health Solid Waste Association/Environmental Professional (1 position) Planning Commission: (2 positions) Applications may be obtained at the County Administration Office, 3rd floor of the Courthouse, 220 W. State St., Hastings; or www.barrycounty.org; and must be returned no later than 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 14, 2012. Contact 269-945-1284 for more information. 77565879 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 8, 2012 — Page 9 Hastings man made flight in ‘Triangle of Death’ The following story was published in the Dec. 24, 1974, Hastings Banner. ***** An article published in the Newsweek issue of Dec. 16 proved of special interest to John Barnett, an officer of the Hastings City Bank, and a resident of Hastings. It repeated the story of the loss of six Navy torpedo bombers and 27 men Dec. 5, 1945, in what has been called “Graveyard of the Atlantic,” comprising a triangular area between the Florida coast to the Bermuda Islands and south to Puerto Rico. It is repeatedly referred to during the past 30 years as The Bermuda Triangle, The Triangle of Death, Limbo of the Lost and The Devil’s Triangle. (Newsweek of Dec. 16, 1974, page 72. The Devils’ Triangle by Richard Winer, paperback Bantam Books; as listed in Newsweek Article). Barnett is interested as a plane captain, who was stationed at Banana River, because he was flight engineer on one of the several Martin Mariner bombers that were sent out to search for the six Avenger bombers that had vanished. He clearly recalls the uncanny unbelief that bewildered the crew of his aircraft when not a trace, not one oil-slick, not a piece of floating wreckage or the body of one of 27 men was ever found. The five aircraft had left Ft. Lauderdale at 2 p.m. on a calm, sunny day for a routine training flight northward, not far off the Florida coast for a period of approximately two hours. About the time when the flight commander should have been calling for landing instructions, he radioed, “Cannot see land, we seem to be off course.” The base tower replied “What is your position?” After endless seconds, the commander replied “We are not sure where we are. Repeat: Cannot see land.” Ten minutes later the base tower heard pilots of the five planes talking with each other “in tones of ominous panic” and found that for no known reason, the patrol leader was giving up his position to another pilot. Then came the word Call anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads 269-945-9554 “Everything is -- can’t make out anything --.” Incoherent mumblings followed and then, “Looks like we are----” and then nothing. Within minutes a large Martin Mariner, similar to the one Mr. Barnett left on later, was dispatched to learn more of the puzzling confusion less than 200 miles distant. It carried 13 men aboard. Nothing was ever heard from it or from any member of its crew again. It was the sixth big aircraft that vanished on a calm sunny day in December of 1945. The following day, a patrol of 12 big Martin Mariners, Mr. Barnett relates, left the base to make an intensive search for the six missing planes and 27 men, with John along as flight engineer of Mariner No. 10. No oilslicks, no debris of any type, no trace whatever of the evaporation of these men and airships was found. There was no storm or hurricane. “We were aware that one or two places in a patrol can contact unexpected and destructive air conditions that destroy them, but here are five planes, conversing with each other and making no complaint of storm but only of confused location, and then disappearing from the face of the earth,” relates Barnett. A few hours later, a sixth plane vanishes the same way. Next, we go out and find nothing return with one of our planes missing and no trace of it ever found. A captain of a freighter reported that at about the hour and in the approximate location where our missing comrade-plane should have been, there was a brilliant flash in the sky, but nothing was seen falling into the sea.” “Cliff and his crew simply joined the unexplained absence of the other outfits. When ordered back to the base,we approached the coast in Georgia, considerably off our course and with surprisingly little fuel.” “As flight engineer, I am unable to explain the error in location, and I remember we decided that the unexpected use of fuel must have indicated a much stiffer headwind than we had realized. “I am aware that this, so-called ‘Bermuda Triangle’ is one of two places in the world where the compass registers “true” north instead of magnetic north, but even this does not explain the deflection to the Georgia coast.” The Newsweek article states that more than 1,000 human beings have vanished without a trace in this “Graveyard of the Atlantic.” It tells of the many vessels as well as airplanes that have dropped out of sight without trace. It mentions the case of the 500-foot coaling ship, S.S. Cyclops that vanished in 1918 with a crew of 309 men, without storm or message of distress or floating oil slick or life boat. A young man from Iron Mountain, well known to Mr. Barnett’s parents was one of the crew members. The article continues, “Stranger yet are the numerous ghost ships that been found floating crewless within the triangle. On one weird occasion in 1881, the cargo ship Ellen Austin discovered a schooner, sails luffing in the wind, a full cargo of mahogany intact, but no sign of human life. The captain of the Ellen Austin installed a new crew to sail it, but two days later during a rough storm, the two ships temporarily lost sight of each other. When the captain again boarded the schooner, he found his crew had disappeared. After a second crew was assigned, the ship was again lost in a fog bank. This time, no trace of the schooner or the crew was ever found.” Barnett comments: “At the base, we all had heard about these several ‘disappearances’ mentioned in the article, but as to this one about the ‘ghost’ ship loaded with mahogany, we understood that three different crews vanished from her decks without a single lifeboat being dislodged from its davits. I understand that the Newsweek article said that both the log of Christopher Columbus and the recent space astronauts spoke of the unexplained glowwhite streaks across this ‘Hoodoo Sea.’” When contacted by Banner staff recently, Barnett, now 95, said he still has no explanation for what happened to so many crew members more than 65 years ago. Local BBB releases fraud statistics The Better Business Bureau has participated with many other organizations to provide data for the Federal Trade Commission’s Consumer Sentinel Network. This is the most complete report and database available on consumer protection in the United States. Among the findings: • The Kalamazoo Metro Area ranks 17th in the country for fraud-related complaints. • Michigan ranks 38th in fraud complaints, and 13th in identity theft complaints. • Top identity theft complaints in Michigan are related to (in order of frequency) government documents or benefits; telephone or utilities; and credit cards. • Top fraud-related complaints of Michigan consumers are (in order of frequency) debt collection; shop-at-home or catalog sales; and prizes, sweepstakes or lotteries. • The highest percentage of identity thefts were committed against adults age 20 to 29. • The top three national complaint categories are identity theft; debt collection; and prizes, sweepstakes or lotteries. • Fifty percent of frauds get their money through wire transfers. • Forty-three percent of frauds were conducted through email contacts, and 29 percent through phone contacts. • The highest percentage of frauds were reported by adults 50 to 59, and the second highest, those 40 to 49. SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN Questions answered regarding adoption, benefits and more We adopted a baby girl overseas and brought her home with us to the United States. We need to get a Social Security number for her. What do we do? In general, to apply for a Social Security number for your child you must complete an Application for a Social Security Card (Form SS-5) for your child, which you can find online at www.socialsecurity.gov; show documents proving the child’s U.S. citizenship or immigration status, adoption, age and identity; show documentation proving your identity; and provide evidence that establishes your relationship to the child if your name is not listed as the parent on the child’s evidence of age. The adoption decree or the amended U.S. birth certificate will suffice. You can take your application and original documents to the nearest Social Security office or you can mail them to us. All documents must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. We cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents. If you do not yet have proof of your child’s citizenship, we can assign a number based on documentation issued by the Department of Homeland Security upon the child’s arrival in the United States. When you do receive documentation of your child’s citizenship, you can bring it to us, and we will update your child’s record. We will mail your child’s number and card as soon as we have verified your documents with the issuing offices. How long do I need to work to become eligible for retirement benefits? Everyone born in 1929 or later needs 40 Social Security credits to be eligible for retirement benefits. You can earn up to four credits per year, so you will need at least 10 years to become eligible for retirement benefits. During your working years, earnings covered by Social Security are posted to your Social Security record. You earn credits based on those earnings. If you become disabled or die before age 62, the number of credits needed depends on your age at the time you die or become disabled. Learn more at www.socialsecurity.gov. I have children at home and I plan to retire next fall. Will my children be eligible for monthly Social Security payments after I retire? A child (biological, legally adopted or dependent stepchild or grandchild) may potentially be eligible. Monthly Social Security payments may be made to your chil- dren if they are unmarried and under age 18, age 19 if still in high school or age 18 or over, who became severely disabled before age 22 and continue to be disabled. Is there a time limit on Social Security disability benefits? Your disability benefits will continue as long as your medical condition has not improved and you cannot work. Social Security will periodically review your case to determine whether you continue to be eligible. If you are still receiving disability benefits when you reach your full retirement age, your disability benefits will automatically be converted to retirement benefits. Learn more about disability benefits at www.socialsecurity.gov/disability. Why is there a five-month waiting period for Social Security disability benefits? The law states that Social Security disability benefits begin with the sixth full month after the date your disability began. You are not entitled to benefits for any month prior to that. Learn more at our website. My grandfather, who is receiving Supplemental Security Income, will be coming to live with me. Does he have to report the move to Social Security? Yes. An SSI beneficiary must report any change in living arrangements within 10 days after the month the change occurs. If the change is not reported, your grandfather could receive an incorrect payment and have to pay it back, or he may not receive all the money due. Just as importantly, your grandfather needs to report the new address to Social Security to receive mail from us. You can report the change by mail or in person at any Social Security office or call Social Security’s toll-free number at 800-772-1213. You can get more information by reading the booklet Understanding SSI, at www.socialsecurity.gov/ssi. I found out that my son submitted incorrect information about my resources when he completed my application for help with Medicare prescription drug plan costs. How can I get my application changed now to show the correct amount? You may call 800-772-1213 and let us know or you can visit your local Social Security office (find it by using our office locator at www.socialsecurity.gov/locator). Information on your application will be matched with data from other federal agencies. If there is a discrepancy that requires verification, we will contact you. HASTINGS CHARTER TOWNSHIP BOARD OF REVIEW MEETING SCHEDULE The Hastings Charter Township Board of Review for 2012 will be held at the Township Hall at 885 River Road, Hastings, MI 49058 on the following dates: Tuesday, March 6 Organization Meeting 1 pm Wednesday, March 14 Appeal Hearing 9-12 Noon & 6-9 pm Thursday, March 15 Appeal Hearing 9-12 Noon & 1-4 pm The Board of Review will meet as many more days as deemed necessary to hear questions, protests, and to equalize the 2012 assessments. Written protests may be sent to the above address by Tuesday, March 13, 2012. The tentative ratios and the estimated multiplier for each class of real property for 2012 are as follows: CLASS RATIO MULTIPLIER Agricultural 55.08% 0.9078 Commercial 53.60% 0.9328 Industrial 54.10% 0.9242 Residential 50.37% 0.9927 Developmental None in class Timber Cutover None in class Jim Brown, Supervisor Hastings Charter Township Ph. 269.948.9690 Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the township clerk at least seven (7) days in advance of the hearing. This notice posted in compliance with PA 267 of 1976 as amended (Open Meetings Act) MCLA41.72a(2)(3) and with the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA). 77565937 HOPE TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Hope Township Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing upon the following described matters on Thursday, March 22, 2012 at 7:00 PM at the Hope Township Offices at 5463 South M-43 Highway: 1. Mr. Norman Watson of TNR Machine has submitted a special exception use application to establish an equipment repair and service shop as permitted in Section 23.2, C of the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance, on property located at 8951 Cedar Creek Road and zoned C-2, Medium Commercial. Written comments will be received from any interested persons concerning the foregoing by the Hope Township Clerk at the Hope Township Offices at any time during regular business hours up to the date of the hearing and may further be received by the Planning Commission at the hearing. Anyone interested in reviewing the application submittal, the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance, or other information in connection with the request may do so at the Hope Township Offices during regular business hours and may further examine the same at the public hearing. The Township of Hope will provide necessary auxiliary aides and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed material being considered at the hearing, to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon four (4) days notice to the Hope Township Clerk. Hope Township 5463 South M-43 Highway Hastings, MI 49058 269.948.2464 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Hope Township Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing upon the following described matters on Thursday, March 22, 2012 at 7:00 PM at the Hope Township Offices at 5463 South M-43 Highway: 1. Ms. Amy Henney has submitted an application to amend a special exception use permit for a private camp located on Red Oak Trail, on land with the property tax ID number 07-009-006-55. The applicant is seeking to expand the private camp from 4 campers to 10 campers. Private camps are a permitted special exception use in the AR, Agricultural Residential District, per Section 17.2, C of the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance. Written comments will be received from any interested persons concerning the foregoing by the Hope Township Clerk at the Hope Township Offices at any time during regular business hours up to the date of the hearing and may further be received by the Planning Commission at the hearing. Anyone interested in reviewing the application submittal, the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance, or other information in connection with the request may do so at the Hope Township Offices during regular business hours and may further examine the same at the public hearing. The Township of Hope will provide necessary auxiliary aides and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed material being considered at the hearing, to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon four (4) days notice to the Hope Township Clerk. Hope Township 5463 South M-43 Highway Hastings, MI 49058 269.948.2464 77566222 77566332 HOPE TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION mifilmtodigital.com www. 77566237 �Page 10 — Thursday, March 8, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12026050-DE Estate of Janice Louise Higgins. Date of birth: 03/04/1951. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Janice Louise Higgins, who lived at 5459 Lammers Rd., Hope Township (City of Hastings), Michigan died 10/18/2011. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Jennifer Boniface, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West Court Street Suite 302, Hastings, MI 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 3/2/12 Kevin L. Tyrrell P61890 4780 Okemos Rd., Ste. 5 Okemos, MI 48864 (517) 853-9057 Jennifer Boniface 5459 Lammers Rd., Hope Township (City of Hastings) MI 49058 77566269 (269) 948-2646 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12026033 DE Estate of Steven Gordon Cutler. Date of birth: April 28, 1969. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Steven Gordon Cutler, who lived at 15458 South M43 Highway, Prairieville, Michigan died December 24, 2011. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Sandra Lee Roby, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West Court Street, #302, Hastings, Michigan 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Melder & Melder, P.C. Sanford J. Melder P23604 2304 East Eleven Mile Road Royal Oak, Michigan 48067 (248) 541-3400 Sandra Lee Roby 10698 SE 174th Loop Summerfield, Florida 34491 77566271 (352) 307-1888 FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Casey S Wolfe, A Single Man and Shelley L Hendrick, A Single Woman to First Security Savings Bank FSB, Mortgagee, dated December 14, 1995 and recorded December 18, 1995 in Liber 647 Page 619 Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage was assigned through mesne assignments to: CitiMortgage, Inc., by assignment dated December 2, 2008 and recorded December 8, 2008 in Instrument # 200812080011636 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Forty-Four Thousand Eight Hundred Twenty-Seven Dollars and Eight Cents ($44,827.08) including interest 8.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on March 15, 2012 Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: North one half of Lots 4, 5, 6, Block 8 Eastern Addition; also South 10 feet Lot 3 and South 10 feet of West one half of Lot 2 Block 8 Eastern Addition City of Hastings. Commonly known as 413 S East Street, Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 2/16/2012 CitiMortgage, Inc., Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-55888 (0277565950 16)(03-08) SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by JAMES W. SUTHERLAND, A SINGLE MAN, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns,, Mortgagee, dated April 12, 2005, and recorded on April 19, 2005, in Document No. 1145092, and assigned by said mortgagee to GMAC MORTGAGE, LLC SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO GMAC MORTGAGE CORPORATION, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ninety-Four Thousand Five Hundred Forty-Five Dollars and Forty-Six Cents ($194,545.46), including interest at 6.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on March 22, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: THE SOUTH 1320 FEET OF THE WEST 1 /2 OF THE EAST 1 /2 OF THE SOUTHWEST 1 /4 OF SECTION 14, TOWN 4 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST, EXCEPT THE WEST 230 FEET THEREOF. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. GMAC MORTGAGE, LLC SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO GMAC MORTGAGE CORPORATION Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 GMAC.008493 (0277566066 23)(03-15) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Curtis H. Conrad and LoQuisha M. Conrad, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Countrywide Home Loans, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 23, 2002, and recorded on August 28, 2002 in instrument 1086428, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fifty-Three Thousand Seven Hundred Fifty-Three and 58/100 Dollars ($153,753.58), including interest at 6.75% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 22, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 14, Town 4 North, Range 10 West; thence East 12 rods; thence South 16 rods; thence West 12 rods; thence North 16 rods to the point of beginning. excepting therefrom the South 5 feet thereof. Also a parcel of land commencing 12 rods East of the Northwest corner of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 14, Town 4 North, Range 10 West for the place of beginning; Thence East 8 rods; thence South 10 rods; thence West 8 rods; thence North 10 rods to the place of the beginning. Also a parcel of land commencing 54 rods West of the Northeast corner of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 14, Town 4 North, Range 10 West; thence South 10 rods; thence West 6 rods; thence North 10 rods; thence East 6 rods to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 23, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #379291F01 77566020 (02-23)(03-15) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by John R. Haynes, and Theresa L. Haynes, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated December 21, 2007, and recorded on January 8, 2008 in instrument 20080108-0000275, and assigned by said Mortgagee to SunTrust Mortgage, Inc. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Four Thousand Four Hundred Eighteen and 21/100 Dollars ($94,418.21), including interest at 6.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on April 5, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the West 1/4 corner of said Section; thence South 89 degrees 41 minutes 02 seconds East 1317.64 feet along the South line said Northwest 1/4; thence North 00 degrees 33 minutes 17 seconds East 735.00 feet along the West line of the East 1/2 of said Northwest 1/4 to the place of beginning; thence North 00 degrees 33 minutes 17 seconds East 220.00 feet along said West line; thence South 89 degrees 41 minutes 02 seconds East 325.00 feet; thence South 00 degrees 33 minutes 17 seconds West 220.00 feet; thence North 89 degrees 41 minutes 02 seconds West 325.00 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 8, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #390507F01 77566225 (03-08)(03-29) SYNOPSIS RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP REGULAR BOARD MEETING FEBRUARY 8, 2012 -7:30 P.M. Regular meeting called to order and Pledge of Allegiance. Present: Greenfield, Bellmore, Hawthorne, Carr, Lee, Hanshaw, Flint Approved the Agenda as presented. Approved the Consent Agenda as presented. Amended Resolution #2012-148 by roll call vote. Accepted Mr. Goddard's letter of resignation from the ZBA. Authorized Supervisor Carr to contract with bond attorney Jim White. Approved the Algonquin Lake Fireworks permit for 2012. Meeting Adjourned at 9:02p.m. Respectfully submitted, Robin Hawthorne, Clerk Attested to by, Jim Carr, Supervisor 77566273 www.rutlandtownship.org FORECLOSURE NOTICE RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES, P.C. MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. Mortgage Sale - Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by Jack E. Rider, A Single Man to Hamilton Mortgage Company, Mortgagee, dated October 27, 2004, and recorded on November 16, 2004, as Document Number: 1137301, Barry County Records, said mortgage was assigned to Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee, for Carrington Mortgage Loan Trust, Series 2005-NC1 Asset Backed Pass-Through Certificates by an Assignment of Mortgage which has been submitted to the Barry County Register of Deeds, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Seven Thousand Twenty and 57/100 ($77,020.57) including interest at the rate of 6.75000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the Circuit Court in said Barry County, where the premises to be sold or some part of them are situated, at 01:00 PM on March 29, 2012 Said premises are situated in the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 3, Block 6, H.J. Kenfield`s Addition to the City (formerly Village) of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 9. Commonly known as: 708 EAST WALNUT STREET If the property is eventually sold at foreclosure sale, the redemption period will be 6.00 months from the date of sale unless the property is abandoned or used for agricultural purposes. If the property is determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 and/or 600.3241a, the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of sale, or 15 days after statutory notice, whichever is later. If the property is presumed to be used for agricultural purposes prior to the date of the foreclosure sale pursuant to MCL 600.3240, the redemption period is 1 year. Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages are, if any, limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: March 1, 2012 Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee, for Carrington Mortgage Loan Trust, Series 2005-NC1 Asset Backed Pass-Through Certificates 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302, (248) 335-9200 Case No. 12MI00227-1 (0377566183 01)(03-22) SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by RYAN J. VANZANDT, A SINGLE MAN and AMY DEVON CLARK, A SINGLE WOMAN, to JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., Mortgagee, dated August 22, 2008, and recorded on August 27, 2008, in Document No. 20080827-0008608, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety Thousand Three Hundred Eighteen Dollars and Twenty-Five Cents ($90,318.25), including interest at 6.750% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on March 15, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: Commencing at the intersection of Thornapple Lake Highway and the East line of Section 25, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, for place of beginning, thence Southwesterly along the center of said highway 76 feet, thence Southeasterly at right angles to said highway 177 feet, thence Northeasterly at right angle 119 feet, thence Northwesterly 177 feet, more or less, to a point in the traveled center line of Thornapple Lake Highway 33 feet Northeasterly from the intersection of said section line with the West Section line of Section 30 of Castleton Township and being the East line of Section 25 of Hastings Township, thence Southwesterly along said traveled center line of Thornapple Lake Highway 33 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A. Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 JPMC.000094 (0277565955 16)(03-08) Case No. 10-274-CH CIRCUIT COURT SALE In pursuance and by virtue of a Judgment of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on September 16, 2011, U.S. Bank National Association ND in a certain cause therein pending, wherein U.S. Bank National Association ND was the Plaintiff and Robert J. Stauffer and Shannon J. Stauffer, husband and wife were the Defendants. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that I shall sell at public auction to the highest bidder, at public venue, at the at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI, that being the place of holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, on the 5th day of April, A.D., 2012, at 1:00:00 PM o’clock in the forenoon, Eastern Standard Time, the following described property, towit: All certain piece or parcel of land situated in the Village of Middleville, County of Barry and State of Michigan, described as follows: Situated in the Village of Middleville, County of Barry and State of Michigan: Lots 6, 7 and 8 of Block 59 of the Village of Middleville, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats on Page 27, City of Middleville, County of Barry, Michigan as recorded in Liber 1, Page 27 of Plats, Barry County Records and that parcel of land commencing at the Northwest corner of Lot 8, Block 59 in the plat of Village of Middleville, thence South 65.98 feet along the West line of said Lot 8; thence West 5.0 feet along the North line of Lot 11, Block 59; thence North 65.98 feet parallel to the West line of Lot 8; thence East 5 feet to the point of beginning. Commonly known as: 302 Cherry Street This property may be redeemed during the six months following the sale. Dated: February 16, 2012 Mark Sheldon Deputy Sheriff WELTMAN, WEINBERG & REIS CO., L.P.A. Stuart A. Best (P-40744) Attorney for Plaintiff 2155 Butterfield Drive Suite 200-S Troy, MI 48084/WWR#10032301 (02-16)(03-29) 77565846 SHORT FORECLOSURE NOTICE (BARRY COUNTY) MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the terms and conditions of a certain Mortgage made by Frances L. Gross (deceased), dated April 14, 2010, and recorded on June 9, 2010, in Instrument Number 201006090005525, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said Mortgage is held by Generation Mortgage Company. The sum claimed to be due and owing on said Mortgage as of the date of this Notice is $67,887.13, interest accruing at 5.56% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage shall be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the Barry County Courthouse, 220 West State Street, Hastings, MI 49058, at 1:00pm on Thursday, March 15, 2012. The Mortgagee will apply the sales proceeds to the debt secured by the Mortgage as stated above, plus interest on the amount due at a rate of interest equal to 5.56% per annum; all legal costs and expenses, including attorneys fees allowed by law; and also any amount paid by the Mortgagee to protect its interest in the property. The properties to be sold at foreclosure are all that real estate situated in the Township of Irving, County of Barry, State of Michigan, described as follows: Tax Parcel ID No.: 08-08-023-006-30 Commonly known as: 4708 Buehler Rd., Hastings, MI 49058-9535 The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of sale pursuant to M.C.L. § 600.3240(7). February 13, 2012 GENERATION MORTGAGE COMPANY Kilpatrick & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Generation Mortgage Company 903 N. Opdyke Rd., Suite C Auburn Hills, MI 48326 (248) 377-0700 (02-16)(03-08) 77565908 SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by CHARLES C. FLANAGAN JR and JENNIFER C. FLANAGAN, HUSBAND AND WIFE, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated June 11, 2007, and recorded on June 26, 2007, in Document No. 1182207, and assigned by said mortgagee to FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eleven Thousand Eight Hundred Twenty-Five Dollars and Five Cents ($111,825.05), including interest at 5.250% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on March 29, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: THE NORTH 220 FEET OF THE SOUTH 880 FEET OF THE WEST 208 FEET OF THE NORTHEAST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 18, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 77566208 LBPS.001747 (03-01)(03-22) NOTICE OF JUDICIAL FORECLOSURE SALE Andrew J. Thomas TROTT & TROTT, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy., Ste. 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE IF YOU ARE A BORROWER ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTENTION PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the circuit court at the request of the plaintiff. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest, as determined by the court. Barry County Circuit Court Case No. 10-618-CH NOTICE OF JUDICIAL SALE JUDICIAL SALE IN PURSUANCE and by virtue of a Judgment of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on the12th day of January, 2012, in a certain cause therein pending, wherein HSBC Mortgage Services, Inc., was the Plaintiff and Jeff Schantz was the defendant. The aforementioned judgment established a debt owing to plaintiff in the amount of $127,979.10, plus post-judgment interest at an annual rate of 8.125 % and other amounts recoverable pursuant to said judgment. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that in order to satisfy said judgment, in whole or in part, the property described below shall be sold at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, located at 220 W. State St., Hastings, Michigan (that being the building in which the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held) on Thursday the 29th of March, 2012 at 1 pm, local time. On said day at said time, the following described property located in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, shall be sold: The West 1/2 of Lots 1302 and 1303 of the City, Formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof. Tax Parcel ID: 08-55-201447-00 More commonly known as: 227 W South Street REDEMPTION PERIOD IS SIX MONTHS. Dated: February 9, 2012 Mark Sheldon Deputy Sheriff For more information please call 248-6422515. Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys for Plaintiff 31440 Northwestern Hwy., Ste. 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 File No. 329389L02 (02-09)(03-22) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Joseph D. Kurger and Jennifer S. Kruger, Husband and Wife to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Flagstar Bnak, FSB, its successors and assigns , Mortgagee, dated August 17, 2006 and recorded August 28, 2006 in Instrument # 1169177 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: Flagstar Bank, FSB, by assignment dated February 1, 2012 and recorded February 10, 2012in Instrument # 201202100001456 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Twenty-Six Thousand Six Hundred Thirty-Three Dollars and Fifteen Cents ($226,633.15) including interest 2.625% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on March 22, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land in the Northeast one-quarter of Section 26, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, described as follows: Beginning at a point on the North line of Section 26, distant South 89 degrees 31 minutes 41 seconds West 457.19 feet from the Northeast corner thereof; thence South 00 degrees 15 minutes 18 seconds West 991.60; thence South 89 degrees 31 minutes 59 seconds West 248.00 feet along the North line of the South 10 acres of the Northeast one-quarter of the Northeast one-quarter of Section 26; thence North 00 degrees 15 minutes 18 seconds East 991.58 feet to the North line of said Section 26; thence North 89 degrees 31 minutes 41 seconds East 248.00 feet to the place of beginning, Hasting Township, Barry County, Michigan. Commonly known as 3888 River Rd, Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 2/23/2012 Flagstar Bank, FSB, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-56331 (02-23)(03-15) SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by AMON D. SMITH and KAYSIE SMITH, HUSBAND AND WIFE, to FIRST PLACE BANK, Mortgagee, dated December 21, 2006, and recorded on December 27, 2006, in Document No. 1174400, and assigned by said mortgagee to GMAC Mortgage, LLC successor by merger to GMAC Mortgage Corporation, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Forty-One Thousand Twenty-Seven Dollars and Fifty-Eight Cents ($141,027.58), including interest at 6.500% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on March 15, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: COMMENCING AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF SECTION 7, TOWN 1 NORTH, RANGE 7 WEST, ASSYRIA TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN; THENCE SOUTH 00 DEGREES 36 MINUTES 31 SECONDS EAST ALONG THE EAST LINE OF SAID SECTION 2386.71 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE CONTINUING SOUTH 00 DEGREES 36 MINUTES 31 SECONDS EAST ALONG SAID EAST LINE 220.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES 53 MINUTES 50 SECONDS WEST 777.71 FEET TO THE CENTERLINE OF CASE ROAD; THENCE 221.29 FEET ALONG SAID CENTERLINE AND THE ARC OF A CURVE TO THE RIGHT WHOSE RADIUS MEASURES 2000.00 FEET AND WHOSE CHORD BEARS NORTH 01 DEGREES 15 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST 220.05 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 89 DEGREES 53 MINUTES 50 SECONDS EAST 780.37 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. GMAC Mortgage, LLC successor by merger to GMAC Mortgage Corporation Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 GMAC.004320 (0277565960 16)(03-08) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 8, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Matthew Bourdo, a married man and Lucy Bourdo, as to her dower and homestead rights, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated March 14, 2005, and recorded on March 22, 2005 in instrument 1143017, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-Seven Thousand Eight Hundred Forty-One and 78/100 Dollars ($167,841.78), including interest at 5.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 29, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the North 1/4 Post of Section 20, Town 2 North, range 10 West, Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michgian, thence East 615.78; thence South 697.62 feet; thence North 60 degrees West 75.90 feet; thence North 59 degrees 06 minutes 53 seconds West 462.56 feet to the place of beginning of this description; thence South 29 degrees 53 minutes 44 seconds West 347.40 feet; thence North 58 degrees West 173.63 feet; thence North 35 degrees 25 minutes 19 seconds East 345.05 feet; thence South 59 degrees 06 minutes 53 seconds East 140.31 feet the placeof beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 1, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #241719F03 77566135 (03-01)(03-22) THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE Default having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made by RONALD L. VESTER and SHIRLEY M. VESTER, Husband and Wife, 441 E. Shore Drive, Battle Creek, Michigan 49017 to SMB MORTGAGE COMPANY n/k/a SOUTHERN MICHIGAN BANK & TRUST, 2 West Chicago Street, Coldwater, Michigan 49036 dated January 24, 2008 and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry and State of Michigan, on February 4, 2008 in Instrument No. 2008-204-0001017 of Mortgages, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date of this notice, for principal and interest the sum of Eighty-Six Thousand Three Hundred Fifty-Two and 87/100 ($86,352.87) Dollars and no proceedings having been instituted to recover the debt now remaining secured by said Mortgage, or any part thereof, where by the power of sale contained in said Mortgage has become operative; Now Therefore, Notice is Hereby Given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in said Mortgage and in pursuance of the statute in such case made and provided, the said Mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the premises therein described or so much thereof as may be necessary, at public auction, to the highest bidder, at Courthouse Bldg, Barry County Courthouse in the City of Hastings, and County of Barry, Michigan, that being the place of holding Circuit Court in and for said County, on March 15, 2012, at 1:00 p.m. in the afternoon of said day, and said premises will be sold to pay the amount as aforesaid then due on said Mortgage together with 6.6250% percent interest on the Mortgage, legal costs, Attorneys’ fees and also any taxes and insurance that said Mortgagee does pay on or prior to the date of said sale; which said premises are described as follows, to-wit: County of Barry, Township of Johnstown, State of Michigan, is described as follows: Lot 13 of Oak Park, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats on page 22. ALSO, beginning at a point on the East line of Cottage Road directly East of the Northeast corner of Lot 13 in the Plat of Oak Park; running thence Easterly 100 feet; thence Southerly parallel with said East line of said Cottage Road 50 feet; thence Westerly to a point in the East line of said Cottage Road 50 feet south of the Place of Beginning; thence Northerly on the East line of said Cottage Road to the place of beginning. Pursuant to MCL 600.3240, the last day to redeem the Sheriff's Deed will be September 15, 2012, however, if an Affidavit of Abandonment is filed with the Register of Deeds, the last day to redeem will be April 15, 2012, or until the time to provide the notice was required by MCL 600.3241a(c) expires, whichever is later. If said property is in fact sold at the above described foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the above listed Mortgagor will be responsible to the person who buys the property at the foreclosure sale or to Southern Michigan Bank & Trust Company for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 16, 2012 SOUTHERN MICHIGAN BANK & TRUST Mortgagee. DRESSER, DRESSER, HAAS & CAYWOOD, P.C. By: P. Joseph Haas, Jr. Attorney for SOUTHERN MICHIGAN BANK & TRUST Business Address 112 South Monroe Street 77565915 Sturgis, MI 49091 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Randy Kill, a single man and Jennifer Wooliever, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 19, 2003, and recorded on August 21, 2003 in instrument 1111566, and assigned by said Mortgagee to EverBank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Seven Thousand Nine Hundred Seventeen and 69/100 Dollars ($97,917.69), including interest at 5.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 15, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Baltimore, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Southwest corner of Section 4, Town 2 North, Range 8 West, Baltimore Township, Barry County, Michigan; running thence North 744 feet along the West line of Section 4; thence East 455.2 feet for the true place of beginning; thence North 176 feet parallel with said West line of Section 4,; thence East 344.4 feet, more or less, to the center of South Bedford Road (M-37); thence South 09 degrees 19 minutes East 178.35 feet along the center of Highway; thence West 372 feet, more or less, to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 16, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #394097F01 77565865 (02-16)(03-08) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by David Killgore and Karen Killgore, husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated June 1, 2007 and recorded June 4, 2007 in Instrument Number 1181301, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Federal National Mortgage Association ("FNMA") by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Three Thousand Ninety-Two and 83/100 Dollars ($93,092.83) including interest at 7% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on MARCH 15, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Rutland Charter, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the Township of Rutland, County of Barry, State of Michigan, is described as follows: A parcel of land located in the Northeast 1/4 of Section 11, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, described as follows: Beginning at a point on the center line of old M-37 which lies South 00 degrees 06 minutes 20 seconds East 433.26 feet and South 50 degrees 33 minutes 20 seconds East 1056.01 feet from the North 1/4 post of said Section 11; Thence South 39 degrees 26 minutes 40 seconds West 189.0 feet; Thence North 50 degrees 33 minutes 20 seconds West 217.69 feet; Thence North 32 degrees 19 minutes 08 seconds East 190.47 feet to the center of said highway; Thence South 50 degrees 33 minutes 20 seconds East 241.32 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: February 16, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 650.2340 77565840 (02-16)(03-08) SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by KALEE N. HUFF, A SINGLE WOMAN and CHRISTOPHER J. TAYLOR, A SINGLE MAN, to WOLVERINE BANK, Mortgagee, dated October 27, 2008, and recorded on October 29, 2008, in Document No. 20081029-0010582, and assigned by said mortgagee to MICHIGAN STATE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eighteen Thousand Five Hundred Fifty-Eight Dollars and Twenty-Three Cents ($118,558.23), including interest at 5.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on April 5, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: LOT 6 AND THE SOUTH 3 FEET OF LOT 1, BLOCK 8, DANIEL STRIKER'S ADDITION TO THE CITY, FORMERLY VILLAGE OF HASTINGS, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF AS RECORDED IN LIBER 1 OF PLATS ON PAGE 11, BARRY COUNTY RECORDS. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. MICHIGAN STATE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY Mortgagee/ Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 USBW.001309 (03-08)(03-29) 77566321 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Marcie L. Tepper, A Single Woman, original mortgagor(s), to Argent Mortgage Company, LLC, Mortgagee, dated February 24, 2006, and recorded on March 2, 2006 in instrument 1160761, and assigned by mesne assignments to Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Argent Securities Inc., Asset-Backed Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2006-W4 as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Seven Thousand Three Hundred Fifty-Five and 56/100 Dollars ($107,355.56), including interest at 10.95% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 22, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel 1: Part of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 21, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, Thornapple Township, Barry County, Michigan described as: Commencing at the Northeast corner of said section, thence North 89 Degrees 47 Minutes 15 Seconds West 869.48 Feet along the North line of said section to the point of beginning, thence South 00 Degrees 16 Minutes 10 seconds West 920.00 Feet parallel with the West line of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of said section, thence North 89 Degrees 47 Minutes 15 Seconds West 234.74 Feet, thence North 00 Degrees 16 Minutes 10 Seconds East 920.00 Feet, thence South 89 Degrees 47 Minutes 15 Seconds East 234.74 Feet along the North line of said section to the point of beginning. Subject to Highway Right-of-Way for Finkbeiner Road over the North 33.0 Feet thereof. Parcel 2: Part of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of section 21, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, Thornapple Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Commencing at the Northeast coner of said section, thence North 89 Degrees 47 Minutes 15 Seconds West 1104.22 Feet along the North line of said Section to the point of beginning, thence South 00 Degrees 16 Minutes 20 Seconds West 920.00 Feet parallel with the West line of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of said section, thence North 89 Degrees 47 Minutes 15 Seconds West 234.74 Feet, thence North 00 Degrees 16 Minutes 10 Seconds East 920.00 Feet along the West line of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of said section, thence South 89 Degrees 47 Minutes 15 Seconds East 234.74 Feet along the North line of said section to the point of beginning. Subject to Highway Right-ofWay for Finkbeiner Road over the North 33.0 Feet thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 23, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #259898F03 77565931 (02-23)(03-15) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Brian Hannan, a single man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 18, 2005, and recorded on February 10, 2005 in instrument 1141308, and rerecorded on April 6, 2005 in instrument 1144424, and assigned by said Mortgagee to CitiMortgage, Inc. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Six Thousand Fifty-Seven and 51/100 Dollars ($86,057.51), including interest at 3.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 29, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The South of 1/2 of Lots 1 and 2, Block 19, Eastern Addition, according to the recorded plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 1, 2012 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #372178F01 77566130 (03-01)(03-22) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTENTION PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain Mortgage made between WALTER L. CHURCH and STEPHANIE S. CHURCH, husband and wife, whose address is 547 Meadow Lane, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagor, and ICNB MORTGAGE COMPANY LLC, a Michigan limited liability company, whose address is 302 West Main Street, Ionia, Michigan 48846, as Mortgagee, dated June 24, 2009, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on June 29, 2009, in Document No. 200906290006711, upon which Mortgage is claimed to be due at the date of this notice the sum of ONE HUNDRED THIRTY-FOUR THOUSAND FOUR HUNDRED EIGHTY-SIX AND 21/100 ($134,486.21) DOLLARS, and no suit or proceedings at law or equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said Mortgage, or any part thereof; NOW, THEREFORE, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said Mortgage, and pursuant to the statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on April 5, 2012, at 1:00 p.m., said Mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse, 220 West State Street in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, Michigan (that being the building where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held) of the premises described in said Mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due of said Mortgage, with interest thereon at 4.875% per annum, and all legal costs, expenses and charges, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sums which may be paid by the undersigned to protect its interest in the premises, which said premises are described as follows: Land situated in the Township of Hastings, County of Barry and State of Michigan, to-wit: Lot 28 of the Plat of Fairhaven, according to the Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 45, Barry County Records, EXCEPT the West 311 feet of the North 294.75 feet of Lot 28 of the Plat of Fairhaven; together with ingress and egress over certain property described in the deed recorded in Liber 372, Page 522, as modified by Quit Claim Deed recorded in Liber 641, Page 673; ALSO the East 20 feet of the West 311 feet of the North 294.75 feet of Lot 28 of the Plat of Fairhaven as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 45, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of such sale, unless Mortgagor provides notice that the property is agricultural in accordance with MCL 600.3240(17), in which case the redemption period shall be one (1) year, or unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be thirty (30) days from the date of such sale. If the property described in this Notice is sold at the foreclosure sale referred to above, the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the purchaser who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period in accordance with MCL 600.3278 or as otherwise provided by law. ICNB MORTGAGE COMPANY LLC Mortgagee Dated this 1st day of March, 2012. TIMOTHY L. CURTISS, Esq. Braun Kendrick Finkbeiner P.L.C. 304 East Broadway, Suite 206 Mt. Pleasant, Michigan 48858 77566151 989/775-7404 NOTICE TO BORROWER PURSUANT TO MCL 600.3205a(4) THIS FIRM MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. NOTICE is hereby provided to the Borrower(s) regarding the property located at 10944 S Norris Road, Delton, MI 49046. State law requires that you receive the following notice: You have the right to request a meeting with the mortgage holder or mortgage servicer. Pursuant to MCL 600.3205a(1)(c), United States Department of Agriculture has designated the Loan Modification Department of Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 at (248) 883-0157 as its agent to serve as the contact under MCL sections 600.3205a-3205c and has the authority to make agreements for a loan modification pursuant to MCL sections 600.3205b and 600.3205c. You may contact a housing counselor by visiting the Michigan State Housing Development Authority's website at http://www.michigan.gov/mshda or by calling 1-800-A-SHELTER, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, year-round. If you request a meeting with the designated agent, foreclosure proceedings will not start until 90 days after the notice required by MCL 600.3205a was mailed to your last known address, subject to the provisions of MCL 600.3205b. If an agreement to modify the mortgage is reached and you abide by the terms of the agreement, the mortgage will not be foreclosed. You have the right to contact an attorney. If you do not have an attorney, the telephone number for the Michigan State Bar Lawyer Referral Service is (800) 968-0738. Notice given by: Randall S. Miller Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 248-883-0157 (Loan Modification Dept.) loanmods@rsmalaw.com Case No. 12MI00596-1 77566319 Dated: March 10, 2012 (03-08) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Richard Frank and Abigail B. Frank, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Lend America, Mortgagee, dated July 31, 2009, and recorded on August 26, 2009 in instrument 200908260008726, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Loan Care, a division of FNF Servicing, Inc. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Two Thousand One Hundred Fifty-Three and 36/100 Dollars ($102,153.36), including interest at 5.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 22, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 7, Town 2 North, Range 10 West, described as: Commencing at the East 1/4 corner of said Section 7; thence North 89 degrees 18 minutes 00 seconds West 1320.51 feet, along the South line of the Northeast 1/4; thence North 00 degrees 15 minutes 08 seconds West 695.99 feet, along the East line of the West 1/2 of the Northeast 1/4, to the point of beginning; thence North 00 degrees 15 minutes 08 seconds West 370.00 feet; thence North 89 degrees 28 minutes 40 seconds West 269.45 feet; thence Southeasterly 81.56 feet, along a 151.83 foot radius curve to the right, the chord of which bears South 15 degrees 34 minutes 38 seconds East 80.56 feet; thence South 00 degrees 19 minutes 57 seconds East 292.53 feet; thence South 89 degrees 28 minutes 40 seconds East 247.75 feet, to the point of beginning. Subject to an together with an easement for ingress, egress and utilities as described below Description of a 66 foot wide Easement for Ingress, Egress and Utilities: that part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 7, Town 2 North, Range 10 West, described as: Commencing at the East 1/4 corner of said Section 7; thence North 89 degrees 18 minutes 00 seconds West 1320.51 feet, along the South line of the Northeast 1/4; thence North 00 degrees 15 minutes 08 seconds West 1318.97 feet, along the East line of the West 1/2 of the Northeast 1/4; thence North 89 degrees 28 minutes 40 seconds West 464.30 feet, along the North line of the Southwest 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of said Section to the point of beginning, and the centerline of said 56 foot wide strip of land; thence South 00 degrees 19 minutes 58 seconds East 24.45 feet; thence Southeasterly 141.58 feet, along a 150.0 foot radius curve to the left, the chord of which bears South 27 degrees 45 minutes 38 seconds East 135.38 feet; thence South 54 degrees 24 minutes 49 seconds East 111.13 feet; thence Southerly 143.31 feet, along a 151.83 foot radius curve to the right, the chord of which bears South 27 degrees 23 minutes 53 seconds East 138.05 feet; thence South 00 degrees 19 minutes 57 seconds East 404.65 feet, to reference point A and the point of ending of said 66 foot wide strip of land, also subject to and together with an easement for ingress, egress and utilities over a 60.0 foot radius turnaround, the radius point of which is the aforesaid reference point A The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 23, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #357226F02 77566030 (02-23)(03-15) �Page 12 — Thursday, March 8, 2012 — The Hastings Banner BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY by Gerald Stein N: 2 M: 9 L: A K J 10 5 4 2 K: A Q 9 8 N: A Q 9 8 7 M: 8 2 L: Q 7 K: K 7 5 4 Former Saxon sprinters win relay at NCCAA Championship Middleville Minnows, Hastings Hammerheads and high school swimmers will have the chance to improve their times in the coming weeks. A series of stroke clinics will be held Mondays and Wednesdays from April 9 through May 16 at the Community Education and Recreation Center pool in Hastings. “We always have a summer and winter competitive swim season for our swim club, but because we are limited to two practices a week I was looking for a way to spend more time working specifically on start, turn and stroke improvement,” said clinic organizer Mike Schipper. The cost to participate in the 12, two-hour clinics is $50. The clinics will run from 6:30p.m. until 8:30 p.m. each evening. Sign-up can be done at the CERC in Hastings prior to April 9, at the first clinic on April 9, or any time after the first session for those unable to attend. The clinics will be divided in to four age/ability groups, and each group will rotate through stations focusing on starts, turns, drill work and full stroke work. Each night will be devoted to only one stroke. For instance, April 9 will be all breaststroke for the full two hours. “This will allow the swimmers to really focus on that stroke,” said Schipper. “We will have hopefully as many as eight coaches so that each swimmer will get a lot of individual attention. We will also be video taping the swimmers to help them see their stroke and see what specific changes need to be made.” Contact Schipper for more information at (269) 795-2005 or Kim Kroells at (616) 4464747. LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Shanon Adams, A/K/A Shanon M. Adams, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated June 18, 2003, and recorded on July 23, 2003 in instrument 1109187, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Three Thousand Fifty-One and 66/100 Dollars ($63,051.66), including interest at 5.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 15, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Being Lot Number 6, Block 49, in Village of Middleville, as shown in the recorded plat/map thereof in Liber 1 of plats on Page 27 of Barry County records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 16, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #392400F01 77565826 (02-16)(03-08) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Norman H. Royston, unmarried, original mortgagor(s), to Bank of America, N.A., Mortgagee, dated June 25, 2008, and recorded on July 11, 2008 in instrument 20080711-0007102, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Forty-Three Thousand Four Hundred Ninety-Nine and 71/100 Dollars ($143,499.71), including interest at 6% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on April 5, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Northeast corner of the Southeast fractional 1/4 of Section 25, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, Hasting Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence South to the Northerly line of Michigan Central Railroad right-of-way; thence in a Southwesterly direction along said rightof-way 255 feet to the place of beginning; thence Southwesterly along said right-of-way 45 feet; thence Northwesterly at a 90 degree angle to said right-of-way to the lake; thence Northeasterly along the lake 45 feet; thence Southeasterly to the place of beginning. Also a strip of land being former raid road right-of-way situated in the County of Barry, Hasting Township being part of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 25, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, located over and across or adjacent to the property hereinbefore described The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 8, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #398120F01 77566231 (03-08)(03-29) E S N: K 5 4 3 M: A K J 10 6 5 4 L: --K: 6 2 Lead: K4 “He rose from the table and, advancing to the master, basin and spoon in hand, said, ‘Please, sir, I want some more.’ ‘What!’ said the master at length . . . ‘Please, sir,’ replied Oliver, ‘I want some more (gruel).’” from Oliver Twist, chapter II In last week’s column, North was “broken-hearted” because he did not get the contract with such a pretty heart hand. Will it happen two weeks in a row? This week, poor, starving Oliver Twist is desperate for more food, even if it is the thin gruel served up to the London orphans. In this week’s bridge hand, the North-South team is not as desperate for good cards as Oliver. Together, they have very good cards. They just need to reach the right contract. The bidding went as follows: Dealer North 1L 2L East Pass South 1M West 1N 2N 4M All Pass Last week, North was enjoying his solid heart hand but all for naught. This week, he looks at another solid hand with strong diamonds, strong clubs, and two singletons in spaces and hearts. He opens the bidding with the diamond bid and plans to rebid the suit with or without partner support. The singletons are the big help in this hand for the North hand. East has nothing to say with only four points, and she passes appropriately. South has almost the same hand in hearts that North had last week. What a switch, but bridge is a team game, and South bids the solid heart suit, also intending to rebid again with encouragement from his partner, North. West, with a five-card spade suit and two honors feels the need to throw in an overcall. Although he knows that the East-West team will probably not get the bid, it is a good lead-directing message to his partner, East. With 11 high card points, he feels that at the one level this is a safe bid. West bids 1N. North has listened to the bidding, and he knows that his singleton spade will be useful for a North-South contract. North confidently rebids the diamond suit, promising at least five or six diamonds and an interest in going on further. East chimes in with a rather meager bid. Perhaps she was desperate like Oliver (there is nothing in her hand), and she bids 2 N. South has heard enough. There appears to be enough points in the North-South hands to make a game, and the best game in town is 4 M. That is exactly what South bid, and all pass. The lead is the 4 K from West. North puts down the dummy and South, as a bridge courtesy, immediately thanks his partner for the cards. He then sets out to make his plan. South sees that he has ten tricks in both hands if all goes well: seven heart tricks, two diamond tricks, and one club trick. This is the plan that South comes up with: I will tak the A K immediately, and next lead the A L and King L pitching my last loser club and one loser spade. I can use the 9 M to finesse the Queen M if I need to. South begins as planned, taking the A K first, although some might have taken the chance that West was leading from the King K. The Ace L and King L are led next and South pitches his last club loser and one of his spade losers. When South sees that the Queen L falls on the third trick, South must reevaluate his plan. Should he finesse the Queen M by leading the 9 M or lead the top diamond, the Jack L, knowing that West will most likely trump it? Actually, South gives himself two advantages by taking the finesse first. If it wins, then he is still in the dummy hand, and then he can lead the Jack L, planning to pitch another losing spade. The finesse works as East has the Queen M, and South plays the Jack L, pitching another spade loser. the North-South team ends up with ten tricks as planned, losing the three as expected, making a vulnerable game. Although North did not play the hand, he had a lot to do with the success of it. The best contract for the North-South team is definitely in the major suit of hearts, avoiding the diamond suit and using it to discard losers from the South hand. No, the North-South team was not at all desperate, unlike our poor, starving, mistreated Oliver Twist, one of Charles Dickens’ most memorable characters in all of literature. (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs.) (An update from Kellogg Community College Institute for Learning in Retirement: For Intermediate and Advanced Beginner Bridge players, class number two The Play of the Hand will be offered in Battle Creek for nine weeks, beginning April 23, 2012. For more information, call the ILR office to reserve a spot at 269-948-9500, Extension 2804.) Nelda A. Newton March 15, 1914 ~ 2011 It’s been a year since our lives were forever changed when you were called to be with our Lord. That day your piano was quiet and the music stopped for us, your family and perhaps all of Freeport. Now, as you rejoice in the presence of Christ we are left with this certain sadness that your lovely smile is gone from us forever. Still, you will continue to be in our hearts leaving us with wonderful and lasting family memories. In our minds your sweet music will be forever with us. We miss you, Mom. Lovingly, your children, Jim Newton, Anne and Clark Blanchard, Rosada and George Mann, Leta Koon, Bill and Sharon Newton and families. 77566216 RN/LPN Private Duty Immediate Openings Nashville, Marshall, Springport, Jackson Various Shifts Available Trach and Vent Experience Preferred Must have reliable transportation Please send resume to: recruiter@optimalstaffing.com ® SUMMER EMPLOYMENT The Barry County Road Commission is hiring for temporary summer employment (May-September). Work will mostly be outside working the road maintenance crews. A job description will be provided at time of application. Hourly wage will be $7.50 per hour. Applicant must be at least 18 years of age and have a valid driver’s license. If interested, please stop by and fill out an application at the Road Commission located at 1725 W M-43 Highway, Hastings (behind FlexFab on M37/M-43). Accepting applications through March 15, 2012. 06775238 The 77564841 Stroke clinics coming to CERC pool beginning April 9 W 77566315 Hastings graduates Jessica Czinder (center left) and Jessica Lee (center right) teamed with Spring Arbor teammates Kayla Finkbeiner (right) and Tammera Bean (left) to win the 4x200-meter relay at the National Christian College Athletic Association’s Indoor Track and Field Championship Feb. 18 at Cedarville University in Cedarville, Ohio. The foursome finished the race in 1 minute 49.95 seconds. The Spring Arbor Women’s team was sixth overall at the event. N: K 10 6 M: Q 7 3 L: 9 8 6 3 K: J 10 3 N �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 8, 2012 — Page 13 Middleville council approves five-year recreation plan by Julie Makarewicz Staff Writer With a five-year community recreation plan, Thornapple Area Parks and Recreation will be positioned in the future to seek grants and other funding sources to support programs and facilities. The plan, approved by the village of Middleville this week, must also be approved by the Thornapple Kellogg Board of Education, Thornapple Township and Thornapple Area Parks and Recreation Commission. The plan is to serve as a guideline of possible projects and improvements the community might make in the future to enhance and expand recreational opportunities. Goals and ideas established in the plan were created after community visioning and planning sessions. Nothing in the plan is set in stone, and any projects will still have to fully be considered by the TAPRC before implementation, depending largely on funding available. Community focus groups looked at three general areas: trails, facilities and programs. Several needs and wants were identified in each area, and possible phasing of projects was determined. Village Manager Rebecca Fleury reminded village council members that none of these plans commit the village or the TAPRC to any projects or funding at this time. “All of these are conceptual ideas. It’s nice to have dreams at least identified, even if we never complete them. If funding comes along, at least we may be eligible,” said TAPRC program director Catherine Getty. “You are not committed to anything with this five-year plan. Each individual project would have to come back for consideration before we could spend any money,” Getty said. Council members Sue Reyff and Joyce Lutz voted against the plan. Lutz said she didn’t feel she had enough time to adequately review the multi-page plan. Reyff was concerned about funding any projects at this time. Some of the possible projects identified in the plan include: • Extension of the Paul Henry Thornapple Trail north to connect with Caledonia and south to connect with Hastings. • Improvements to Calvin Hill Park, including restrooms, skate park, outdoor lighting, play equipment, basketball court and parking. • Conducting an environmental study of the grounds at the Crane Road ball fields. Hastings City Bank to host small business workshop Hastings City Bank is partnering with the Barry County Economic Development Alliance and the City of Hastings to bring a free business development workshop to the community Wednesday, March 21, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. This workshop will be of interest to people who are considering new business startups, current business owners, and professionals working with small businesses. The workshop will take place in the community room of the Hastings branch of Hastings City Bank, 150 W. Court St. Many resources on how to plan and finance new and current business initiatives will be available. Valerie Byrnes, president of the Barry County Chamber of Commerce and Barry County Economic Development Alliance, will present information on resources available through those organizations, including Michigan Small Business and Technology Center, SCORE, Counselors to America’s Small Business, and The Biz, a resource cen- ter located at Hastings Public Library. John Hart, community development director for the City of Hastings, will have information on the Downtown Development Authority facade grant program, a revolving loan fund through the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and grants available from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority and Michigan Economic Development Corporation. Robert Ranes, senior vice president of lending, will provide information on Hastings City Bank lending programs, Michigan Certified Development Corporation and Small Business Administration programs. Attendees will be able to meet with presenters one on one and ask questions. The in workshop is offered at no charge to the community. Reservations are encouraged, and may be made by calling 269-948-5579. Refreshments will be served. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 For Sale National Ads Business Services AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is deceptive, fraudulent or might otherwise violate law or accepted standards of taste. However, this publication does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the quality of goods or services advertised. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made in any advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you ask for money in advance of delivery of goods or services advertised. BOOKKEEPING SERVICES Personal * Self-Employed * Small Business Payroll * Billing Accounts Receivable * Accounts Payable General Ledger Weekly * Monthly * Quarterly * Annually Call today! (269)420-5714 Estate Sale ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. Recreation WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are interested in leasing acreage for this years deer season. Call (269)795-3049 PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 Help Wanted 25 DRIVER TRAINEES Needed NOW! Become a driver for Werner Enterprises! Earn $750 per week! No experience needed! Local CDL Training! Job ready in 15 days! 1-877-649-2697. REACH THOUSANDS OF READERS with an ad in the Hastings Banner. Call (269) 945-9554 to place your ad. BARRY COUNTY Area TEA PARTY MEETING 7:00 pm • Tuesday, March 13th 77566263 CENTRAL BOILER CLASSIC OUTDOOR WOOD FURNACES- Buy NOW & save up to $1,145. Totally renewable energy heating alternative. Call SOS your “Stocking Dealer” Dutton, MI 616-554-8669- or 616-9155061 Speaker: U.S. Rep. Justin Amash Middle Villa Inn 4611 North M-37, Middleville Gary L. Munson • 269-623-8464 • Developing a new ball field complex with a site yet to be determined or make improvements to Crane Road fields. • Improving Riverside Park with a boat launch and paring and remove concrete river debris. • Developing River Tail loop and Mill Pond trail loop with fishing platforms and birding scopes. • Developing an ice skating facility possibly at Lions Sesquicentennial Park. • Developing Wildwood Trails Park with disc golf, cross-country skiing, paved walking trails, parking, restrooms, pavilion and additional facilities. • Developing designated non-motor routes through the community. • Adding lights to school tennis courts. • Improving Lions Spring Park, including restrooms, disc golf and nature trails. • Developing a trailhead staging area for the Paul Henry Thornapple Trail. Additionally, in visioning sessions, citizens suggested long-term consideration of a multi-use community center and coordinating programming with the YMCA and other agencies. COURT NEWS Christopher Alan Tomczyk, 47, of Hastings, was sentenced for use of a non-narcotic and possession of a non-narcotic. Tomczyk was ordered March 1 to spend 60 days in jail with 45 days suspended and the remaining 15 days served on weekends. He received credit for one day served. Tomczyk must complete drug court and perform 80 hours of community service. He must pay $3,751 in costs and serve 36 months on probation. He also was ordered to pay $300 per month toward costs. Charges of furnishing contraband to prisoners and possessing contraband in jail were dropped. Brenda Natalie Oseguera, 23, of Aurora, Ill., was sentenced March 1 for malicious destruction of a building, $1,000 to $20,000, and escaping custody. Oseguera was ordered to serve 12 months in jail, with credit for 73 days served. She must pay a combined $2,923 in costs and serve 24 months on probation. Oseguera must attend cognitive behavior therapy, substance abuse counseling, have a medical evaluation and complete her GED. Charges of escape while awaiting trial on a felony, two counts of malicious destruction of personal property of $1,000 to $20,000, and larceny of $200 to $1,000 were dropped. On Feb. 29, Helen Marie Cassada was sentenced for larceny of a building. Cassada, 57, of Richland, was ordered to serve five days in jail with credit for one day served. She must pay $948 in costs and serve 12 months on probation. Jail was suspended, and Cassada must pay $90 per month toward costs. A second charge of larceny from a building was dropped. James Henry Beard was sentenced Feb. 29 for possession of a Molotov cocktail. Beard, 59, of Nashville was ordered to serve 12 months in jail, with credit for 221 days served. He must pay $698 in costs and serve 36 months on probation. He must pay all costs by Aug. 1. A no-contact order was issued against him, and Beard must also participate in alcohol abuse assessment and treatment programs. Levi Kenneth Pinks, 24, of Hickory Corners was sentenced for explosives manufacturing and possession of Molotov cocktail; home invasion, second degree; and unlawful driving away of a motor vehicle. Pinks was ordered Feb. 29 to serve 12 months in jail, with credit for 231 days served. He must pay $2,921 and serve 36 months on probation. Pinks must enroll and successfully complete the Swift and Sure Sanctions Program, obtain his GED, attend cognitive behavior therapy, and wear a tether device upon release. Ninety days of jail will be suspended upon successful completion of SSSP. A charge of manufacture and possession of a Molotov cocktail explosive or incendiary device causing property damage was dropped. Todd Douglas Marsh, 41, of Sunfield, was sentenced for operating under the influence of liquor, third offense. Marsh was ordered Feb. 29 to serve six months in jail, with credit for two days served. He must pay $1,698 in costs by Aug. 1 and serve 36 months on probation. Four months of jail were suspended, and a work release was granted. Marsh must attend Alcoholics Anonymous three times a week beginning while in jail, attend substance abuse counseling, and his vehicle will be immobilized if applicable. Charges of operating with license suspended, revoked or denied, second or subsequent offense, and having an open container of alcohol in the vehicle were dropped. Hastings JV cheer finishes another outstanding season Hastings JV competitive cheer team had another great winter. The Saxons were unbeaten in the O-K Gold Conference for the second year in a row, and finished first at five of the six invitationals it competed in. The Saxons had their highest score to that point in the season in the one invitational they didn’t win, at West Ottawa. The rest of the teams were all Division 1 teams, and the Saxons managed to finish fourth (in the middle of the pack) with a score of 631. “I told them the story of David and Goliath and that it didn’t mater how big someone was if you had determination and will, anything could happen,” said Saxon head coach Diane Jager. Hastings had the theme of “Power Team” for round three, and it was by far the team’s strongest round. The Saxons’ best round three score, of 282.6, is believed to be the top round three score by any Division 2 JV team in the state this season. The team continually scored well in the third round and received bonus points for execution, which is a rarity on the JV level. The Saxons’ highest total score this season was a 641.6528. This year’s team consisted of sophomores Shayna Brooks, Paige Comp, Kinsey Elliot, Cassie Fischer, Tracy Norris, Haley Rein, Mara Speer and Becca Westbrook and freshmen Selinda Arechiga, Chey Childers, Laura Hause, Amy Hobert, Shy Kill, Haleigh Pool, Erica Redman, Dani Thompson, Alyssa Turashoff and Deanna Turashoff. “This was a really good experience and I could not have been prouder,” said Jager. She told her girls, “great season ladies. Be proud of your accomplishments and know that in the game of life nothing is impossible if you prepare to win, plan to win, and expect to win.” POLICE BEAT Purse removed from car overnight Dog gets a noseful; finds no narcotics Hastings Police were called to the 100 block of West Grant Street Feb. 29 for a reported larceny from a motor vehicle. The caller said she was certain the vehicle had been locked by using the key fob that night. The next morning she realized she had left her purse inside the vehicle, and the door was unlocked. The missing purse is described as being two handled, rectangular, and red and white in color. Along with the purse, $27 was missing. Police service dog Kyro was requested to assist the Barry Township Police with a search warrant at a South M-43 residence Feb. 29. According to the deputy, a search warrant had already been executed and a marijuana-growing operation was discovered with a significant amount of marijuana already seized. Kyro was requested to sniff for any hidden narcotics. The dog gave several alerts inside the residence, but no additional narcotics were located. Drinking man suspects wife Woman turns self in at jail Deputies responded to a Keller Road residence near Delton, in reference to a domestic situation March 3. The complainant said her 48-year-old husband had come home very intoxicated, and accused her of illicit behavior with people while he was out of the house. The man told his wife he was leaving for a while and when he returned she should be moved out. The woman told deputies she told the man not to drive and he pushed her and then hit her in the chest with his elbow. The man then left in his truck. The woman told deputies that all her relatives lived in Indiana, but she could stay in a hotel for the night. Reportedly, she started to pack but then changed her mind and wanted to stay. Deputies were unable to locate or contact the husband. The case remains open and a report forwarded to the prosecutor’s office. A 39-year-old Delton resident turned herself in to Barry County deputies March 2, telling deputies she was wanted on an outstanding warrant. On further investigation, deputies found the woman had an outstanding felony warrant for welfare fraud over $500. She was taken into custody and lodged at the Barry County Jail. Knife retrieved before anyone is hurt Hastings Police were called March 5 to a home in the 900 block of North Broadway. Central Dispatch reported a domestic violence situation involving a 14-year-old and threatened use of a knife. When officers arrived, they teen was in the backyard. The teen was taken into protective custody and the knife retrieved. The weapon was not used and no one was hurt. Debit card leads to warrant for meth lab Barry County Deputies arrested a 24year-old Shelbyville woman March 5, after investigating her as a suspect in a debit card theft. Deputies found the woman had a felony warrant out of Allegan County involving a methamphetamine laboratory. She was transported to the Allegan County border and handed over to Allegan deputies. Working lock may have prevented theft Hastings Police were called to the 700 block of South Jefferson Street Feb. 29 on a reported larceny. The victim said a purse had been taken from her apartment and when she came home, she found the purse contents dumped on the floor and the purse was missing. The Coach brand purse was lavender colored, medium-sized, with loopstyle handles, valued at $200. Several persons had reportedly been in and out of the home that day, with the home owner saying the door would not lock since “officers had kicked it in” previously. Traveling man has warrants in three counties Deputies arrested a 30-year-old Nashville man on outstanding warrants. According to the police report, the man had two warrants out of Barry County warrants one for failure to appear in court and another for failure to pay fees associated with a charge of driving with a suspended license. He also had a warrant out of Ionia County for failure to pay and failure to report to jail as ordered. A fourth warrant was out of Calhoun County for failure to appear on a speeding charge. Unlocked car makes easy pickings A woman reported to Barry County deputies Feb. 28 that her wallet was missing from her vehicle. She said her 2002 Grand Prix was left unlocked and in her Woodland driveway, and she had left her wallet in the car. The woman told deputies she had already canceled her ATM card and that she had no cash in the wallet. Diesel stolen from Freeport area farm A Freeport man told deputies Feb. 27 that his fuel storage tank had been emptied. The man said the tank is located between his barn and house on Jordan Road, and 275 gallons of diesel fuel were missing, valued at approximately $1,000. The man’s son said someone must have used an electric pump to empty the tank, since the handcrank pump requires nine turns per gallon. Weaving driver goes to jail A motorist was stopped March 3 in the 2100 block of North M-43 for suspected operating while intoxicated, after crossing traffic control lines on the highway numerous times around 4 a.m. The driver, a 33year-old Hastings resident was arrested for operating with high blood alcohol content and taken to jail. �Page 14 — Thursday, March 8, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Austin Service (left) and Shiann Molette, pictured here with teacher Dan Benningfield, are the Young Citizens for March at Southeastern Elementary School. Central Elementary School’s Young Citizens for March are (from left) Blair Anderson, Alexis McCracken and Kullan Morgan, with teacher Jill Smith. St. Rose sixth graders Bridget Woolf and Daniel Huver, named their school’s Young Citizens for the month of March, are joined by teacher Amy Murphy. Pennock Health Services joins initiative to improve hospital care Hastings Middle School Young Citizens for March are (from left) Mary Green, Justin Carlson, Tyler Brown, Pierson Tinkler and Shyanne Satterelli. Hastings Exchange Club announces March Young Citizens At right: Katey Solmes (left) and Lindsay Meeker are Northeastern’s Young Citizens for March. They are joined by teacher Don Schils. Below right: Named Young Citizens for March at Star Elementary School are (front, left) Meghan Borton and Emma Peck. They are joined here by teacher Dawn Secord and Matt Kingshott. The Pennock Health Services Leadership team confers with colleagues during a routine hospital walk-around to improve quality and safety initiatives. Pictured are (from left) Sheryl Lewis-Blake, Jim Wincek, Mae Wesolek and Carla Wilson-Neil. TK girls 7th out of eight at D2 finals In its first appearance ever in the state finals, Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity competitive cheer team earned a seventh place finish Saturday at the DeltaPlex in Grand Rapids. Gibraltar Carlson took the Division 2 state championship with a total score of 807.3944. Gibraltar Carlson had the highest score in each of the three rounds, tying runner-up Dearborn Divine Child at 319 in round three. The champs also scored a 234.1 in round one and a 254.2944 in round two. Divine Child finished with a score of 804.4592, followed by Ortonville Brandon 783.4576, Allen Park 777.3220, Kenowa Hills 754.1648, DeWitt 753.3884, Thornapple Kellogg 748.9080 and Byron Center 739.9488. Thornapple Kellogg’s girls scored a 223.6 in round one, a 218.8080 in round two and a 306.5 in round three. That round three score was good for fifth in that round. Pennock Health Services is partnering with the Michigan Health and Hospital Association Keystone Center for Patient Safety and Quality to help make health care safer and less costly by targeting and reducing preventable injuries and complications from hospital-acquired conditions. As a part of the Partnership for Patients, a nationwide collaboration to improve the quality, safety and affordability of health care, Pennock Health Services is participating in the MHA’s Hospital Engagement Network to implement proven best practices to reduce targeted hospital-acquired conditions by 40 percent and reduce preventable readmissions by 20 percent by the end of 2013. The MHA Keystone Center is one of 26 HEN contracts recently awarded by the federal government to coordinate the program throughout the country. The Partnership for Patients and HEN approach is patterned on patient safety initiatives pioneered by Michigan hospitals, beginning in 2003. “The MHA Keystone Center HEN builds on the quality and safety work of Michigan hospitals for nearly a decade that has proved successful and sustainable and is being emulated throughout the country,” said Pennock Health Services CEO Sheryl Lewis Blake. “Patient safety is and always will be the top priority at Pennock Health Services, where the voluntary efforts of our dedicated colleagues are designed to ensure the care our patients receive is among the safest, highest quality in the country.” As part of its efforts, Pennock Health Services is participating in the 2012 Patient Safety Awareness Week campaign, “Be Aware for Safe Care,” to raise awareness and encourage the engagement of patients, families, providers and the public. Patient Safety Awareness Week, which continues through March 10, is an annual education and awareness campaign for health care safety led by the National Patient Safety Foundation. This year, Michigan hospitals are emphasizing that patient safety impacts everyone and are recognizing efforts being made to improve the quality of care delivered to residents, such as the MHA Keystone Center HEN. Achieving the Partnership for Patients’ objectives would mean approximately 1.8 million fewer injuries to patients in hospitals, saving more than 60,000 lives over three years, and would mean more than 1.6 million patients recovering from illness without suffering a preventable complication requiring re-hospitalization. For more information, visit www.mhakeystonecenter.org, call Pennock Health Services at 269-945-3451 or visit the website www.pennockhealth.com. Call anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads 269-945-9554 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 8, 2012 — Page 15 Portland beats the Lakewood ladies a third time by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Lakewood’s Kristin Hilley and Madi King hit three-pointers in the first minute of the second half to cut a double-digit Portland lead down to 24-18 in the Class B District Semifinals Wednesday at Thornapple Kellogg High School. But that was as close as the Vikings would ever get to their league rivals from Portland as the Raiders earned a spot in Friday’s district championship game, against Ionia, with a 4626 win. “We come out of half and hit a couple of threes and had a chance, but we didn’t do a good enough job defensively to stop them,” said Lakewood head coach Denny Frost. “It’s a great bunch of kids. You get beat by a team like Portland, you can’t be too upset about it. They’re number two in the state for a reason.” Portland, which beat Lakewood in both Capital Area Activities Conference White Division match-ups this season, improved to 22-0 on the season with the win. Lakewood sees its year end with a 9-12 mark. The Vikings were hobbled a bit by injuries in the second half. King spent most of the fourth quarter on the bench with an ice bag on her left ankle, while Hilley battled leg cramps throughout the second half. Portland stared the fourth quarter on a 13-1 run to put the game out of reach. Chelsi Scott led Portland with 12 points, while Alexandra Goys added nine and Nicole Green had eight. The Raiders also got six points from Taylor Roe and five from Sarah Trierweller. “We needed them to blow the whistle tight and they didn’t,” said Frost. “Not anything about them. I’m not (complaining) about the officials.” “Our whole offense is predicates on attacking the basket and hopefully you get Trierweller and Scott in foul trouble, and they didn’t. Ray’s kids play great defense and just that constant pressure takes you out of your offense. We get a little bit helter-skelter and emotionally we were charged. The girls really were excited, then you play a little bit faster and you shoot a little bit quicker, you’re a little bit out of control.” The Vikings weren’t hurt too much by their emotions early. It was just 12-9 after one quarter, but the Raiders scored the first ten points of the second quarter. Lakewood didn’t get its first points of the second quarter until Hilley hit a three with 16.5 seconds left before the break. Emily Kutch led the Vikings with ten points. King finished with seven and Hilley six. Hilley was one of just three seniors for the Vikings this season, along with Hannah DeJong and Ashley Jemison. “They played a lot of extreme minutes for me,” Frost said. “The seniors are going to be tough to replace.” Overall, the Vikings were happy with the strides made throughout the season. After an 0-7 start, the Vikings went 9-5 through the rest of the regular season. Frost said during that stretch his team beat the teams it should have beaten, losing only to very good squads from Portland, Lansing Catholic, PewamoWestphalia and DeWitt. Lakewood’s Kristin Hilley flips a shot up over Portland’s Kelsey Spitzley during Wednesday’s Class B District Semifinal at Thornapple Kellogg High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Another Viking heavyweight wins by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Vikings preach patience to their heavyweights. They’ve got to take advantage of opportunities that present themselves though too. “He tried going around and I brought him the other way,” said Lakewood senior 285pounder Garrett Hyatt. He caught Dundee’s John Marogen in a head-and-arm and pinned him 1 minute and 48 seconds into their 285-pound championship match at the Division 3 Individual State Finals at the Palace of Auburn Hills Saturday evening, becoming the third Viking heavyweight to win a state championship in six years. “I told him before we came down here, ‘you’re not good enough to win it, but you’re not bad enough where you can’t,’ said Lakewood head coach Bob Veitch, “and I told him ‘you’re not one like a (Adam) Coon or a (Taylor) Massa who’s going to walk through destroying everybody. You’re going to have to go out and wrestle.’” St. Johns’ Massa finished off a 44-0 season with four pins at the Palace in Division 2’s 171-pound weight class over the weekend. Fowlerville’s Coon improved to 50-0 on the year in winning Division 2’s 285-pound title with three pins followed by a decision in the championship finals. Hyatt’s weekend didn’t look much different. He pulled out a 2-1 win over Highland Park’s Martaz Crutchfield in the opening round, then pinned his next three foes on the way to the title. He stuck Almont’s Tom Ray one minute into their championship quarterfinal, then pinned Gladwin’s Jake Roza 2:54 into their championship semifinal. “Basically, we talked to him. I told him we lose staying in good position. We don’t lose making a bad choice, with the referee saying you’re stalling and then taking a bad shot, we lose being in good position and being patient,” said Veitch. “He just stayed right on the game-plan right to a T. He was very patient and stayed square.” Hyatt threw both arms into the air after the referee signaled the pin in the championship match, then looking to his family in the stands threw an arm through the air in celebration. “Amazing, I never would have expected this,” Hyatt said. Hyatt ends his senior season with a 46-3 record. Lakewood had Cody Dupont win a 275pound Division 2 title in 2006, and Ryan Steverson win a Division 3 285-pound championship in 2010. “I wrestled with Steverson for a couple of years,” said Hyatt. “He was a good wrestler. You had to take whatever you could from him. He was a great teacher too.” Viking freshman Jordan Bennett had a learning experience of his own in his first trip to the Palace. He came into the finals with a 38-0 record, but went 1-2 on the weekend in Division 3’s 135-pound weight class. “It wasn’t his day. It wasn’t his weekend, and he’ll be the first to tell you that he just didn’t feel right and wrestle right,” Veitch said. “He’s a freshman and he’ll be back. He’s got to learn from that. We’ve got to go over some things to get him ready for next year. “Do I think he should have been in the top two? Yeah, I do. He’s that good, but he wasn’t this weekend. He’ll recover and be back.” All three of Bennett’s matches were decided by a point. He fell 5-4 to Alma’s Bruce Hubbard in the opening round. Bennett then topped Menomee’s Christopher Briar 4-3 in their first consolation match, before falling 43 to Buchanan’s Jeff Mucha 4-3 in the blood round. Lakewood point guard Brooke Wieland tries to shake Portland’s Taylor Roe during Wednesday’s Class B District Semifinal at Thornapple Kellogg High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Maple Valley’s Flower wins his first state medal in D4 Lakewood senior Garrett Hyatt accepts his state championship medal from head coach Bob Veitch after winning Division 3’s 285-pound weight class at the Palace of Auburn Hills Saturday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The area’s other Division 3 state qualifier, bounced back to tech Pinconning’s Nick Lock senior Tyler Dempsey from Delton Kellogg 16-0 in their first round consolation match. was also 1-2. Vassar’s Nick Baker ended Dempsey’s tourHe fell to Dundee’s Brandon Atchley 11-6 nament run by pinning him 4:51 into their in the opening round at 130 pounds, then blood round match. BOWLING SCORES Tuesday Night Mixed Boyce Milk Haulers 73-35; Hurless Machine Shop 66.5-41.5; Home Town Lumber 61.5-46.5; Barry County Red Cross 60.5-47.5; J-Bar Antique Tractors 40-68; Dirt Broke 22.5-85.5. Men’s Good Games and Series - D. Benner 213; G. Hause 183; M. Yost 153; M. Burd 141-403. Women’s Good Games and Series - B. Smith 150; B. Ramey 146; F. Smith 144; D. Service 144. Tuesday Trios Rollarama 75-33 CB’s 69-39; Shirlee’s Team 64.5-43.5; Look Insurance 63-48; Lu’s Team 60-52; Blair Landscaping 56-55; Team Turkey 53-55; Twisted Sisters 49-63; Classic 3 45-65; Trouble 43-62; Coleman Agency4365; Ghost Team 13.5-93.5. High game and series - K. Henney 153; L. Wiltshire 166; T. Daniels 196; L. Potter 194537; R. Brummel 196; S. Cross 127; C. Hayward 160; S. Vandenburg 191; S. McKee 248, 233-645. Monday Mixerettes Kent Oil 60.5-43.5; Dean’s Dolls 54.5-49.5; NBT 54.5-49.5; Nashville Chiropractic 52.551.5; Dewey’s Auto Body 46-54; James Process Service 40-60. Good games and series - B. Anders 160421; D. Anders 164; D. James 192-544; D. Worm 168-458; B. Hathaway 165; T. Redman 145; E. Ulrich 208-464; J. Rice 182-488; L. Elliston 192; S. Dunham 170. Senior Citizens Just Having Fun 62.5-41.5; Butterfingers 61-43; Kuempel 54-50; Ustedtobe@1 53-51; Three Gals and a Guy 53-51; M&M’s 52-52; King Pins 50-54; Sun Risers 47.5-56.5; Early Risers 46-58; Ward’s Friends 41-63. Good games and series women - B. Benedict 174-422; D. Larsen 167; M. Wieland 192; J. Gasper 211; E. Ulrich 181-509; E. Dunham 172; R. Murphy 169-482; M. Kingsley 102; S. Patch 199. Good games and series men - J. Grassmeyer 194-558; G. Forbey 158; R. McDonald 225-648; M. Saldivar 194-524; R. Boniface 169-471; H. Gibson 172; G. Waggoner 187-535; B. Akers 218-547; L. Markley 214-461; D. Murphy 144-398; W. Mallekoote 162-451; K. Schantz 163-457; B. Terry 215-573. Wednesday P.M. Mills Landing 70-34; Four Pals 62.5-41.5; The River 61-43; Eye & ENT 55-49; Hair Care 50.5-49.5&. * Games to be made up. Good games and series - B. Smith 179490; S. Beebe 169-481; L. Elliston 214-578; T. Christopher 198-530; G. Meaney 185; P. Shellington 158-435; Y. Cheeseman 180; R. Pitts 148. Sunday Night Mixed You’re Up N Shit 59; Eastsiders 53; Straightliners 49; Street Bowlers 46; Sandbaggers 45.5; Sunday Snoozers 44; Rollin Olins 43 1/2. Womens good games and series - K. Becker 211-521; M. Simpson 184-468; C. Larsen 158-430; M. Olin 154-420; K. Plett 138-377; C. Demott 128-329; D. Gray 188; J. Rice 185; J. Shoebridge 146; J. Healy 138. Mens good games and series - T. Heath 244-661; J. Shoebridge 193-501; S. Jewell 190-469; M. Strong 166-437; M. Bassett 202436; T. Demott 149; D. Healy 116. Maple Valley’s Cash Flower tries to escape the grasp of Reading’s Zach Dieterle during the first period of their match for seventh place in Division 4’s 152-pound weight class at the Individual State Finals Saturday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Maple Valley junior Cash Flower’s first appearance in the Individual State Finals began and ended with losses to Reading’s Zach Dieterle. In between though Flower did enough to earn himself his first state medal, placing eighth in Division 4’s 152-pound weight class at the Palace of Auburn Hills over the weekend. Dieterle topped Flower 8-6 in their opening round match Thursday, then pinned him 2: minuets and 28 seconds into their match for seventh place Saturday afternoon. Flower was pinned twice, also falling in 1:12 to Constantine’s Ben Mallo 1:12 into their consolation semifinal match Saturday morning. Flower secured his state medal with a pin of his own, pinning Shelby’s Forrest Courtright 4:46 into their blood round match. He opened consolation with an 8-1 win over New Lothrop’s Dakota Clark. Flower ends the season with a 38-14 record. His teammate Alejandro Reid didn’t last quite as long, falling in his first two matches in the 215-pound weight class. He fell to Fife Lake-Forest Area’s Tom hall 9-1 in the opening round, then was pinned by Elkton Pigeon Bay Port Laker’s Jeff Diebel in 3:41 in the first round of consolation. Maple Valley boys win their tournament opener by 23 Maple Valley’s varsity boys’ basketball was ready for the start of the state tournament Monday. The Lions raced out to a 21-7 first quarter lead in the Class C District Opener with Saranac at Laingsburg High School, and went on to a 71-48 victory over the Redskins. That win earned the Lions the right to take on the host Wolfpack in the district semifinals Wednesday at Laingsburg High School. Garrett Reid led the Lions to the opening round victory with 22 points, five rebounds, five assists and five steals. Maple Valley also got 13 points from Austin Gonser, eight from Garrett Miller and seven from Garret Mater. Micah Bromley had three points and seven assists. Miller and Gonser hit two threes each. Tyler Gorby led Saranac with ten points, while John Kinsman added nine and Cullen Tiemann eight. The Lions led 36-19 at the half, then put the game away with a 24-12 run in the third quarter. The Lions closed out the regular season with a 57-47 KVA loss at Hackett Catholic Central Thursday. The Irish pulled away with a 19-11 run in the third quarter, after leading 26-21 at the half. Hackett got 13 points from Jason Newhouser and 11 from Michael OgnarPettersson. Joe Pelak chipped in nine points, while Bryan Bradley and Brian Aldrich had eight each. Reid led the Lions with ten points. Six other Lions had at least six points, with Miller adding eight, Mater seven, and Bromley, Tommy Mudge and Gonser six each. The Lions ended KVA play with a 2-16 mark, and are now 5-16 overall this season after the win Monday. �Page 16 — Thursday, March 8, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Panthers pummel Eagles for outright KVA title by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Championship teams aren’t built between November and March. Senior Mitch Wandell and the Panthers took turns cutting down the net after clinching an outright KVA championship, their team’s first conference title since 1981, with a 95-68 win over Olivet Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) They aren’t built during four high school seasons. It takes more time. “I just wanted to win. I didn’t care if I scored 0 or 44,” said Delton Kellogg senior Ryan Watson after his 44 points helped the Panther varsity boys’ basketball team clinch an outright Kalamazoo Valley Association championship with a 95-68 win over visiting Olivet Thursday. “I just wanted to carry the team. I’ve been waiting for this for 17 years.” Watson and his fellow seniors have been playing together nearly that long, other than the sophomore campaign when he and classmate Mitch Wandell were bumped up to the varsity ahead of their class. “It’s amazing. It’s amazing,” said Wandell. “We’ve been working for this moment since first grade. As soon as I fouled out I started crying. I knew we had won.” It’s the first conference championship for the Delton boys since 1981. Watson’s 44point night was the first 40-point performance by a Panther since the 1971-72 season. The 95 points Delton scored, one shy of the school record, set during the 1970-71 season. “The kids, they have a belief in themselves and what we do,” said Delton Kellogg’s second-year head coach Mike Murray. “From the first day I was here I talked about family. There are going to be ups and downs in every family. We certainly have had them. We’ve gone through tragedy. We’ve had triumph. We’ve had our ups and downs in the locker room, which no one will ever know about except those guys in the locker room. Tonight, it was ten guys all single-minded in their pursuit of getting this.” That group of ten included seven seniors, Delton Kellogg’s Ryan Watson (right) pushes the ball ahead as he’s pressured by Olivet’s Colin Spencer during the second quarter Thursday night. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Delton Kellogg’s boys celebrated on the floor with their classmates for a moment, before heading into the locker room. Murray then quickly led his team back out to cut down the nets on the north end of the gymnasium. Everyone got their turn, with Murray finishing things off. He held up the number 40 jersey of Seth Ordway, who passed away unexpectedly early in the season, cut down a piece of netting and said “this one’s for 40.” Murray then cut down the remainder of the net, and twirled it above his head to the cheers of the crowd that remained. “We haven’t had a KVA championship in 31 years ,and every practice we look up at the banner, that’s what we want,” said Watson. “Since we were little we wanted this. This is what we wanted. We were determined.” Delton Kellogg’s Norm O’Meara fires a short jump shot over Olivet center Quintan Harris for the first two points in the Panthers win over the Eagles Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) five of whom combined for 90 of the Panthers’ 95 points. As a team Delton hit 13 three-pointers, seven of them by Watson. Wandell finished with 20 points, Norm O’Meara had 13 and Connor Wolschleger 11. Delton trailed 3-2 in the first minute, after a three by the Eagles’ Tanner McCarn. Wolschleger answered at the other end to put Delton up 4-3, and then O’Meara drilled a three a minute later to extend the lead to 7-3. The Panthers led the rest of the evening. The Delton lead hit double-digits for the first time on a three by Watson a minute and a half into the second quarter. Olivet clawed back to within four points on a bucket by center Quintan Harris with 17 seconds left in the first half. That was as close as the Eagles would be the rest of the way. “They had nine offensive rebounds in the first half, and we’re undersized. We know it. We can’t let our lack of size be a lack of aggression,” Murray said. “We just said we’ve got to stop them there. Our first shot defense is good. Our first shot defense is good enough, what we need to do is stop them on their second shots.” The Panthers scored 34 points in the third quarter to eliminate any chance of the Eagles earning a share of the league championship. Delton led 71-53 heading into the fourth quarter. McCarn led the way for the Eagles with 26 points. Harris finished with 17. The Eagles pressing style seemed to play right into the Panthers’ hands. “When you’ve got five ball-handlers on the floor, which we do pretty much 100 percent of the time, I say go. Go. It’s tough to defend when you’ve got five-ball handlers, and five guys who can shoot it. It’s been very exciting,” Murray said. Delton Kellogg’s Nick Brindley (23) and Connor Wolschleger celebrate clinching an outright Kalamazoo Valley Association championship at the end of their team’s 95-68 win over visiting Olivet Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Lakewood boys play well in their regular season finale by Brett Bremer Sports Editor It wasn’t a win, but it was a positive performance that the Vikings would like to carry into the Class B District Tournament they’re hosting this week. Lakewood’s varsity boys’ basketball team closed out the 2011-12 regular season with a 44-38 non-conference loss at Mason Thursday evening, ending the Vikings’ regular season with an overall record of 3-17. Lakewood opened tournament play in the district semifinals against Thornapple Kellogg Wednesday night, with the winner advancing to Friday’s district championship game. Thomas McNamara led the Bulldogs to the win Thursday with 21 points, including ten in the fourth quarter. Lakewood outscored Mason 16-12 in the fourth quarter to creep back into the ball game after trailing by ten at the end of three quarters. “A couple of made lay-ups and free throws down the stretch would have turned this game into a win,” said Lakewood head coach Mark Farrell. “We played so much better tonight.” The Vikings only turned the ball over ten times after coughing it up 25 times against Grand Ledge Tuesday. Spencer Palmer led Lakewood with 13 points and three rebounds. Kalib McKinney added nine points, Jordan Cooper six and Mike Carr five. Cooper also had three rebounds and three steals. Adam Barker chipped in a team-high eight assists as well as three steals of his own. “We responded to their physical approach to the game tonight,” Farrell said. “We stepped up our intensity and created positive opportunities for ourselves.” Jacob Sommerville had seven of his 11 points for the Bulldogs in the first quarter to help his team to an early 14-6 lead. McNamara then kept Mason in front in the second quarter by scoring his first nine points of the ball game in the period. Mason went into the half up 24-17. TK closes gap with Ionia, but not quite enough by Brett Bremer Sports Editor A couple of transition lay-ups by Ionia’s Sarah Swartz in the final minute of the first quarter gave Ionia’s varsity girls’ basketball team its first lead Wednesday at 8-6. The Bulldogs never trailed again. Ionia topped host Thornapple Kellogg 4431 in the Class B District Semifinals, earning a spot in Friday’s (March 2) District Final against No. 2 ranked Portland. Swartz led the way with 18 points. “The self-inflicted wounds are the ones that kill you the most,” said TK head coach Jesse Bays. “I can understand when a defender makes a good play on defense, but when we’re just throwing the ball away in critical times of the game, like when we were up 6-0 and you’ve got a chance to really put it to the other team and you turn the ball over and next thing you know they get three lay-ups. We look up and it’s 6-6. It seems like after that we SAXON WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE Complete online schedule at: www.hassk12.org THURSDAY, MARCH 8 TUESDAY, MARCH 13 4:15 PM Boys MS TBA 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 5:30 PM 5:30 PM Forest Hills North Middle H FRIDAY, MARCH 9 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 5:30 PM 5:30 PM Girls Girls Girls Girls 7th B 8th B 8th A 7th B Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Duncan Lake Middle Duncan Lake Middle Duncan Lake Middle Duncan Lake Middle H A A H SATURDAY, MARCH 10 9:30 AM Boys MS Wrestling Hastings Duals H Girls Girls Girls Girls 8th A 7th A 7th B 8th B Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball MS 7th B 8th B 8th A 7th A Wrestling Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Battle Creek Central HS Newhall Middle Newhall Middle Newhall Middle Newhall Middle A A H H A WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14 4:00 PM Girls 8th A 5:00 PM Girls 7th A 6:00 PM Girls 7th B Basketball Comstock Park HS Basketball Comstock Park HS Basketball Comstock Park HS A A A Thanks to This Week’s Sponsor: MONDAY, MARCH 12 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 5:30 PM 5:30 PM Boys Girls Girls Girls Girls Wayland MS Wayland MS Wayland MS Wayland MS A H H A Times and dates subject to change HASTINGS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS Contact Nancy 945-2742 or hastingsathleticboosters@gmail.com to sponsor the schedule Hastings Athletic Boosters We Need YOU to Support the Saxons Join the Hastings Athletic Boosters!! 77566251 Wrestling Thornapple Kellogg’s Lauren Bailey leaps up to save the ball from going out of bounds during the second half Wednesday against Ionia. (Photo by Brett Bremer) were chasing the rest of the night.” Ionia didn’t really start to pull away until the final three and a half minutes of the first half, when the Bulldogs went on an 11-4 run that pushed their lead from 18-14 to 29-18 at the half. “They scrapped. They scrapped,” Bays said of his girls. “Man, they played defense for a long time. We just couldn’t find our offense for nothing. We had girls wide open and for some reason we just didn’t hit them.” The Trojans didn’t stop battling when the Bulldog lead hit double digits. They held Ionia scoreless for the first five and a half minutes of the fourth quarter, cutting the Bulldog lead from 36-23 to 36-29 in the process. During that stretch though, Trojan seniors Shelby Tedrow and Erin Ellinger both fouled out. “It’s a bad feeling for our seniors, but they fought hard,” Bays said. “I’m proud of the three seniors. I’m glad Lauren Bailey came out this year, I’m proud of her. I’m proud of Shelby. I’m proud of Erin.” Junior Crystal Smith led TK with 12 points on the night. She hit four threes. TK also got six points each from sophomores Kelli Graham and Sydney Krol “It is what it is. I’m proud of them. They could have given up and it could have been a 30-point game again (like when the two teams met in December),” said Bays. “They fought back and got it down to six, and we had a chance to get it to within four, but you know turnovers and whatnot.” Behind Swartz for Ionia Shelby Atkinson had eight points and Taylor Bovee had nine. Thornapple Kellogg’s Kelli Graham races up for a lay-up in front of Ionia’s Sarah Swartz during Wednesday’s Class B District Semifinal in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 8, 2012 — Page 17 Two Trojans win state medals at Division 2 Finals Foster was also pinned by Stevensville Lakeshore’s Kyle Carlson 1:35 into their consolation semifinal, in a match where he had a 5-0 lead. “I was beating him and then the next thing I know I get caught in a lousy headlock,” said Foster. Foster closed out his high school career by pinning Escanaba’s Dalton Perron-Spear 1:47 into the match for fifth place. Poland was two minutes away from leaving the Palace without a medal. He trailed Greenville’s Mike Schmidt 8-1 at the start of the third period of their blood round match Friday afternoon. “All I remember is hitting a granby for a five-point move and looking at the scoreboard and realizing it was tied up,” said Poland. “I was like, oh my God I just worked my way all the way back in it. My season is still alive. Then the take down to win it was like the best feeling ever. I was going crazy. It was awesome.” He won it 11-9 in overtime. He’d also won a two-point match in the first round of consolation, besting Mattawan’s Blain Dempsey 7-5. Those were Poland’s only two wins. “Yesterday was the craziest wrestling day of my life,” Poland said. It’s been a life full of wrestling matches. He started wrestling when he was five. He started his run at the Palace with a 6-0 loss to Adrian’s Joe Garcia. After the two consolation wins, Poland fell 5-1 to Allen Park’s Jake Polenciewicz and then 11-3 to Flint Kearsley’s Jakob Chapman in the match for seventh place. Hastings’ Kenny Cross works on top of New Boston Huron’s Marcus Copley during their 160-pound opening round match at the Division 2 Individual State Finals Thursday. (Photo by Cindy Gatewood) by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The record shows Adrian Foster adding three more pins to his record at the Division 2 Individual State Finals over the weekend. If you ask him, he was responsible for five. “It’s just simple mistakes I should have worked on all year long,” said the Thornapple Kellogg senior, Foster, after going 3-2 during the weekend and finishing fifth in the 285pound weight class. “I pretty much pinned myself both times. I can’t get mad at anyone but myself. Today, in my last match I just thought go all out. It’s the last match of the year, my last match ever probably.” “I went out there and left it all on the mat and ended up coming out with a win.” His fifth-place finish is one place higher than he finished as a junior. He was one of two Trojan medalists. Freshman Chris Poland was eighth in the 103-pound weight class. The other are state qualifiers in Division 2, Hastings’ Kenny Cross and TK’s Nate Iveson and Dan Dykstra were all 1-2 on the weekend. Foster came to the Palace of Auburn Hills with a 44-0 record, and improved to 45-0 with a pin of Clio’s Tyler Eible 1 minute and 20 seconds into their opening round match. Then Foster pinned Madison Heights Lamphere’s Skip Conner 4:15 into their quarterfinal match.” Foster didn’t have a match last six minutes Hastings boys blow by the Bulldogs in fourth quarter Thornapple Kellogg senior Adrian Foster embraces coach Scott Szczepanek after winning the match for fifth place in Division 2’s 285-pound weight class at the Individual State Finals Saturday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) in the entire state tournament. “If the opportunity is there to pin the kid, I’m obviously going to pin the kid, but if he has the opportunity to pin me I’m obviously going to fight as much as I can.” There wasn’t much fight in Foster though when he was pinned by Mason’s Adam Robinson three minutes and six seconds into their championship semifinal Friday night. “I was up 4-1, and I kind of got antsy,” said Foster. “I was trying to throw in my legs and I went up and over and landed on my head. My whole body went just stiff. I couldn’t move at all. He popped up, looked at the ref and looked back at me and he did what any normal heavyweight would do. That’s understandable, just go and pin him. If you have the opportunity just go.” Thornapple Kellogg 103-pounder Chris Poland tries to stay on top of Flint Kearsley’s Jakob Chapman in the match for seventh place at the Division 2 Individual State Finals Saturday at the Palace of Auburn Hills. (Photo by Brett Bremer) LARGE or small, We Ship It All! Hastings’ Luke Heide flips up a shot in the lane during Monday’s Class B District Opener against Ionia at Lakewood High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Hastings shut down the bulldogs in the fourth quarter to stay alive in the state tournament. The Saxons’ Travis Sixberry fires a shot over Ionia’s Nick Wharry during the fourth quarter Monday at Lakewood High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) The Saxon varsity boys’ basketball team scored a 63-44 win over Ionia in the Class B District Opener at Lakewood High School Monday. The Bulldogs led the game 41-38 after three quarters, but were limited by the Saxons to just one field goal and only six points in the entire fourth quarter. Hastings had six different players score during its 22-6 fourth quarter run, and went 10-of-14 at the foul line to seal the win. Danny Buehler was 10-for-10 at the free throw line for the night, and led Hastings with 18 points. The Saxons also got 14 points from Maxwell Clark. He hit two threes in the opening quarter, then closed out the game by scoring seven points in the fourth quarter. Keith Garber chipped in 15 points. Eric Hart had seven and Travis Sixberry six. Ionia got 14 points from Jake Heppe, but he was held scoreless in the fourth quarter. The Bulldogs also got six points each from Austin Gregory and Joe Voet. Alex Conner Wellman scored the only field goal for Ionia in the fourth quarter. The Bulldogs didn’t help themselves at the free throw line in the final quarter either, going 4of-13. Hastings improved its overall record to 1110 with the win, and earned a spot in Wednesday’s district semifinal with Portland. TK and Lakewood were set to meet in the other semifinal at Lakewood High School Wednesday. The district championship game will tip-off at 7 p.m. Friday. Next Time, Ship Your Luggage! We make it simple, convenient & stress-free. 1351 N.Broadway (M-43) Hastings 269.945.9105 OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:30 - 5:30 �Page 18 — Thursday, March 8, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Delton Kellogg girls win their first district title by Brett Bremer Sports Editor A couple of the Panthers had been through celebrations like this before with the varsity volleyball program. But never before had a Delton Kellogg varsity girls’ basketball team had a postseason celebration like the one the Panthers had Friday. Delton won the first district championship in the history of its girls’ basketball program, topping Lawton 54-46 in the Class C District Final at Galesburg-Augusta High School. “A great win for the kids, the school and for us,” Mohn said.” Lawton was led by Jenna Maury with 21 points. Sewell did a great job of defending the Blue Devils’ top post player and keeping her off the glass. Cassandra Willis finished with just seven points. Delton advanced to its second district final in the last two seasons by topping Schoolcraft 49-37 in the district semifinals at GalesburgAugusta Wednesday. “We went into the half down two, and did not play real well. We talked about getting our defense cranked back up again,” said Mohn. Schoolcraft scored 17 points in the second quarter to take a 23-21 half-time lead, but was held to just 14 points in the whole second half. On the other end of the floor, the Panthers got a balanced scoring effort with five girls contributing eight points or more. Hammond was hot in the second half, scoring nine of her team-high 11 points in the second half. Polley did a little bit of everything again, finishing with ten points, eight rebounds, five steals, four assists and a blocked shot. Culbert had eight points and 19 rebounds. Sewell finished with ten points and Martin eight. Delton Kellogg’s varsity girls’ basketball team celebrates its first district championship after topping Lawton 54-46 in the Class C District Final at Galesburg-Augusta High School Friday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Delton Kellogg’s Adrianna Culbert rises above Lawton’s Erika Whittington during Friday’s Class C District Final at Galesburg-Augusta High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) the community,” said Delton Kellogg head coach Mike Mohn who took over the girls’ program two years ago. “The fans were outstanding and supported the kids throughout the tournament. It really was a great community event. The police escort out of town was a rush, and then the police and fire department welcome coming back into town after the win was second to none. Lights flashing, sirens blaring and singing the school’s fight song on the bus as we entered town, it just is what’s good about high school sports in a town like Delton.” With leading scorers/rebounders Adrianna Culbert and Mallory Sewell on the bench with two fouls for most of the second quarter, the Panthers turned to a group that included Andrea Polley, Alea Hammond, Brooke Martin, Rachel Parker and Kristin Mohn to hold down the fort. The Panthers led by one, 17-16 after an outstanding first quarter, and managed to go into the half-time locker room tied 26-26 despite missing its only two real post threats. “The effort these kids put together was huge in the overall outcome of the game,” said Mohn. “They kept Lawton off the glass, and Alea was throwing everything in that she put up. It was a great moment for her and the team.” Hammond would finish the night with a team-high 16 points. She had 14 of those in the first half. Delton built a 37-33 lead through three quarters, then converted at the free throw line and controlled the glass to seal the win over the Blue Devils. “Free throws in the last two minutes were huge, and Mallory Sewell and Dri Culbert grabbing every rebound in the gym in the last minute and a half finished the game off,” Mohn said. “We limited Lawton to one shot per possession the last few minutes and that gave us a chance to keep the lead.” Culbert finished the night with ten pints and 13 rebounds. Martin hit seven free throws down the stretch, and also tied for the team lead with five assists. Polley started slow, but finished with eight points, five rebounds, three steals, five assists, a block and three deflected passes, all while turning the basketball over only twice. “Once she settled down a bit, she was back to the old Andrea and really became a factor Delton Kellogg’s Mallory Sewell looks to get around Lawton’s Casandra Willis in the post during Friday’s Class C District Final. (Photo by Perry Hardin) DK girls fall in regional semi by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Brandywine had its best scorer. Delton didn’t. That didn’t mean the Panthers weren’t going to put up a fight. Niles Brandywine pulled away with a 14-0 run during the final minute of the third quarter and first couple minutes of the fourth, and went on to a 52-34 victory over Delton Kellogg’s varsity girls’ basketball team in the Class C Regional Semifinal at Delton Kellogg High School Tuesday. Spring Arbor-bound senior Carlie Newman led the Bobcats with 29 points, drilling seven three-pointers. Delton Kellogg was without its leading scorer, Adrianna Culbert, who severely sprained her right ankle Sunday. “That was tough,” said Delton Kellogg head coach Mike Mohn. “I still thought we had enough. That’s been the one thing this year that I’ve been most proud of with these gals is somebody goes down, somebody has a bad couple of games, somebody always steps up. That’s 16 points and 12 rebounds a game Got a larger lawn? Save even more – ask for a quote! MARK YOUR CALENDAR! LAST DAY FOR POULTRY ORDERS MARCH 24TH SATURDAY, APRIL 14TH 9 TO 1 • GARDEN SOIL TESTING SATURDAY, APRIL 28TH 9 TO 1 • LAWN SOIL TESTING Delton Kellogg sophomore Sarah Rendon looks for a path through the lane during the Class C Regional Semifinal against Niles Brandywine at Delton Kellogg High School Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Delton Kellogg’s Andrea Polley (left) chases after Niles Brandywine’s Carlie Newman at the top of the key during the second half Tuesday night. (Photo by Brett Bremer) sitting over there with a cast on her foot. We the post, with Sewell on the bench with four talked, hey this a team thing, let’s go find it.” fouls, with just over a minute in the third to The Panthers found it early. Brandywine start the 14-0 run. That run ended with a had just a 22-21 lead at the half. Mallory Newman’s seventh three with 5:52 to play Sewell was a force defensively inside and on and her team up 46-28. the boards for Delton Kellogg, Andrea Polley “They stepped it up and we didn’t answer attacked the basket, Alea Hammond knocked that initial step up and then you’re down down some jump shots, Brooke Martin was eight, ten, 12 and then you’re just digging, steady all-around, and Rachel Parker pestered digging, digging and it’s hard to come back the Bobcat guards. and when they’re making shots it’s even hardFoul trouble and fatigue wound up catching er,” Mohn said. “They needed to miss more up with Delton, as well as Newman’s long shots. I’ll have to talk to them about that. three-pointers. “It is what it is. We’ve had an unbelievable “She can light it up,” Mohn said. “We year. I can’t be prouder of these kids, first talked about it all week, you’ve got to close time ever winning a district championship in out. We didn’t do a very good job there for a the school’s history. They’ve accomplished a while, but they knocked down shots when lot. I know they’re disappointed because they they needed to to be successful. He’s got them wanted to accomplish more, but it is what it playing really well. That team has got some is.” postseason experience. They’ve been deep Hammond and Polley had nine points each the last couple of years and it shows. They are for Delton. Kristin Mohn and Sewell finished just a collective group of kids and hats off to with four each. Polley also had four rebounds, them. I hope they got deep. It makes us look three steals and five assists. Sewell had a better.” team-high eight rebounds. A couple of Newman threes stymied Behind Newman for Brandywine, Madison Panther bids to tie up the ballgame in the mid- Pellow had six points and Rachael Ort and dle of the third period. She took it to Parker in Brooke Smith had five each. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-03-15.pdf fb23ec8122e62b558f0abf9aecd60215 PDF Text Text County hopes credit rating will bring better bond KCC campus ‘pays off’ Saxons slip in regional semifinals See Story on Page 3 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 11 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 11 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, March 15, 2012 Geerlings named new Hastings superintendent NEWS BRIEFS Jacobs Journey to perform tonight Jacobs Journey will perform at the next Musicians Showcase Thursday, March 15, at the Thomas Jefferson Hall in Hastings, beginning at 7 p.m. Members of the gospel, bluegrass and country band come from across Barry County. Instrument support is provided by Bill Gonyou of Lake Odessa on lead and rhythm guitars; Larry Anderson of Dowling on banjo; Loren Lehman of the Vermontville and Nashville area on harmonica; Ken Moore on Dobro and rhythm guitar, as well as Judy Moore on doghouse bass, both from Middleville. The free showcase concerts are the first and third Thursdays of each month at the Thomas Jefferson Hall on the corner of Jefferson and Green streets. St. Patrick’s Day parade arriving early in Hastings Everyone is invited to “get their Irish on” a day early when the seventh annual South Jefferson Street St. Patrick’s Day parade steps off at 4 p.m. Friday, March 16, led by grand marshal Jeff VanAman, owner of Fall Creek Restaurant on South Jefferson Street. The parade will line up in the alley behind WBCH and proceed south on Jefferson Street, turn west on Center Street, north on Church Street and east back to the alley. The parade is supported by the merchants of South Jefferson Street who have purchased hats, beads, wrist bands, stickers and other items for distribution over the St. Patrick’s Day weekend. Many of the eating establishments are planning Irish menus for both Friday and Saturday nights. All weekend the American Legion restaurant on South M37 also will serve traditional St. Patrick’s Day food and drink. Businesses, organizations, families or individuals interested in participating in the parade may call WBCH, 269-9453414, for more information. HEEF sponsoring free swim night Friday at CERC The Hastings Educational Enrichment Foundation is inviting the community to a free swim night at the Hastings Community Education and Recreation Center Friday, March 16, from 6 to 9 p.m. Donations will be accepted in support of HEEF-sponsored enrichment programs for students. Pool activities will be provided by the Thornapple Kellogg/Hastings girls swim team. Children age 8 and under will be required to have an adult in the pool with them. by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer He got them with doughnuts. By a 6-1 vote, with Trustee Gene Haas dissenting, the Hastings Board of Education approved a motion authorizing board personnel committee to enter contract negotiations with superintendent candidate Todd Geerlings, the assistant superintendent and principal of Campbell Elementary in Mona Shores Public Schools. Geerlings was one of two candidates in the second round of interviews, along with Terry Urquhart, principal of Forest Hills Central High School in Grand Rapids. Board members had said they were impressed with Geerlings during the first round of interviews when he said he likes to let staff know they are appreciated by buying them doughnuts and giving them coffee mugs and birthday cards. Board Trustee Jon Hart mentioned the doughnuts and other gimmicks when he made a motion to enter into contract negotiations with Geerlings. “I didn’t enter into this decision lightly, although it was an extremely easy decision for me, personally,” said Hart. After mentioning that the public ranked Geerlings first after both rounds of interviews as well as by the site visit team, and that he had heard positive recommendations from community members and some provided by Geerlings himself, Hart listed his reasons for choosing Geerlings. “I found his profile match was the best fit. I’m heard some board members talking about the need for a promoter, a person out front, visible,” he said “Todd’s a people person, Hastings pulls plug on recreational millage proposal by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Hastings Area Schools Board of Education plans to ask voters to approve a 1.6-mill 10-year recreational millage May 8 have gone down the drain. During its regular monthly work session Tuesday evening, the board approved a motion pulling the plug on the proposed millage — for now. The millage was expected to generate $750,000 per year, which would be used to cover expenses related to recreational costs currently paid from the district’s general fund. According to Board President Kevin Beck, the millage would have allowed Hastings Area Schools to return the money to the general fund to continue funding academic and co-curricular programs. Tuesday, Hastings Area School Interim Superintendent Michelle Falcon made a recommendation to the board that the millage proposal be withdrawn from the ballot to allow the district time to step back and do more planning before moving forward. Beck paraphrased the recommendation prepared by Falcon. “It comes down to a combination of factors,” he said. “First, there is going to be new leadership that is implemented, led by a new superintendent for the Hastings Area Schools. Second, a very aggressive timeline was proposed and the time needed to properly develop the financial information and convey this information to the public has taken longer than initially planned. And third, new district level financial systems are being implemented that will make budgeting more transparent and will therefore, I believe, the need for the recreational millage will be more easily understood by the public. “In light of these factors, I think it is best to postpone the millage request, allowing our new leadership the opportunity to review the data and make appropriate decisions going forward,” he said. “The need for recreational millage and the millage dollars is stronger than ever. The board of education and I continue to believe that the recreational millage is one way that we can See MILLAGE, page 2 Superintendent candidate Todd Geerlings is greeted by Hastings Area School Director of Finance Barb Hunt and Hastings High School Principal Tim Johnston during the first boys’ varsity district basketball game at Lakewood High School March 5. team player, collaborative, enthusiasm, ener- gift mugs, elementary kids that cut his hair, gy positive, sense of humor, warmth, friendly, gives his associates birthday cards with free visibility, availability, communication, listen- dinners,” said Hart, “a guy that is going to be ing, approachable; that’s all from his profile a people person and promote a very positive match. environment.” “I found him to have empathy for his assoHart also said that Geerlings had attended ciates. He talked about doughnut diplomacy, four Hastings boys basketball games in the past eight days. “He even knew my son was on the team, I was impressed by that,” said Hart. “ ... He had the most positive recommendations by the board, administration and public during the site visit. He had an agenda with time frames. He had title hold cards for the site visit team. He had a cake and he actually had a blue and gold room set up for our site visit team.” The site visit team was comprised of board secretary Donna Garrison, middle school principal Chris Cooley, Southeastern elementary principal Judy Johnson, high school teacher Jeanette Pickard, and Star Elementary secretary Monica Todd. While board president Kevin Beck did not attend the site visit to candidate Tim Allard’s district, Galien Public Schools Thursday, March 1, but did participate in the site visits to Mona Shores and Forest Hills Central. After outlining Geerlings’ experience in education and with budget reduction and passing millages, Hart said Tuesday, “He is a Big [10] official and crew chief and they don’t pick just anybody to do that job, I can tell you that.” During the second round of interviews Thursday, March 8, board president Kevin Beck asked Geerlings if his second career as a Big 10 official would impact his ability to perform as superintendent and to elaborate on the time commitment of that job. “Uh, I am a better administrator, because I am an official than I would have been had I not been involved in this,” said Geerlings. “I make decisions in front of 100,000. I mean, I get See GEERLINGS, page 2 Controversy and surprise overshadow bright moments in Baltimore Township by Doug VanderLaan Editor Discussion of a controversial land deal, a sudden resignation and a surprise announcement from the audience of a canceled Hastings school millage election dominated an otherwise productive and celebratory meeting of the Baltimore Township Board of Trustees Tuesday evening. “I think it’s remarkable in this day and age to have a budget surplus,” said Supervisor Ron Miller, following an often-tempestuous meeting that eclipsed several highlights. “I want the headline of this article to be that we balanced this budget.” That could have happened if Miller and his board had not been forced to withstand the pressure of several vocal residents protesting the township’s handling of a .89-acre property parcel on M-37 near Mixer Road that was purchased last fall. The purchase, at the far northern end of the township, was made during a debate when township officials decided to build a fire pump station on the property as part of a deal to leave the Baltimore Irving Rutland Carlton and Hastings Rural Fire Service. When the township reversed course and chose to stay with BIRCH, the property — which has a small building and trailer and was purchased for $13,000 — became expendable. The current raging debate concerns the marketability of the property, particularly because of alleged environmental and health concerns that could place the township in a financially threatening position. “When we talked in September about sewer and water on the property, we were told that it was all in compliance,” said resident Bill Miller, who told the board he had in his possession an Aug. 26, 2011, Notice of Failure from the Barry-Eaton District Health Department citing a faulty septic tank that was never corrected. The form stated that the township had until March 1, 2012, to correct the problem and carried Ron Miller’s signature of an intent to replace a malfunctioning septic tank lid. “We didn’t carry on through because we weren’t going to use the property. We shut it down,” Ron Miller explained of not correcting the problem. “There’s no access to the septic tank because a trailer sits on top of it and will have to be taken out. It’s a non-issue now. “If we want to sell the property, the trailer will have to be removed and the septic tank will probably have to come out — but the [health department] approved the septic system, the system itself is in good shape.” That discussion brought out the invective of resident James Reid, who questioned how aggressively the property is being marketed to potential buyers, specifically because the present signs list incorrect phone numbers. Reid even offered to place his own ‘for sale’ signs on the property with his phone number to which Miller lightheartedly stated that Reid was “hurting my feelings.” “You don’t have any feelings,” spat back Reid. Residents Gordon and Glenda Case said that they had been interested in purchasing the property, but are unsure now of the reliability of records, saying they had requested a land base assessment document to determine if the property’s soil was clean, especially because it had once been the site of a gasoline service station. After filing a Freedom of Information Act request for the information, the Cases said Township Clerk Penelope Ypma had sent them a 1990 document. Ypma attempted to explain that the document was a letter sent to previous property owner Gloria Anderson, but was unable to speak above the raised voices of audience protest. Ron Miller said he had removed the gasoline tanks as part of his excavation business more than 20 years ago and that their soundness could likely still be inspected at the construction yard to which he delivered them. Vocal audience response demanded that Miller produce the paperwork to prove the tanks had been removed, to which Miller replied that he had been employed as a contractor on property that, at the time, was owned by someone else. Trustee Chad McKeever attempted a note of summation and reason which ultimately led to temporary resolution of Tuesday’s protestations. “The property just went through a legal See BALTIMORE, page 2 FFAer finishes first in state Hastings Middle School student Becky Maurer takes first place in the creed speaking competition during the 84th Michigan FFA State Convention. See story on page 3. �Page 2 — Thursday, March 15, 2012 — The Hastings Banner GEERLINGS, continued from page 1 nervous and my mouth gets dry here, I don’t get that nervous in front of a hundred, hopefully my speech patterns are much better when I turn that microphone on than I did here tonight. But, you’re thinking on your feet. You’re thinking in hostile environments. You’ve got coaches, and there was one that said it to me this year, ‘You’re costing my kids’ dad’s job,’ and two weeks later he was fired. And, there were a couple of calls that, they weren’t my calls fortunately, but there were some calls that were border-line. “It’s a people-skill kind of position, especially in my role. I’m the referee and the crew chief,” Geerlings said of his job as a football official. “So, I have to make sure the other six guys feel up to it, that we have proper training during the week during the summers etc., But, I, we, delegate many of the during-the-week kind of details as far as travel and where we’re going to stay etc. But, I am a much better administrator because I, and I’m also a better official because I’m an administrator; because you know when you discipline, when I was a middle school assistant principal, you know, for rest and relaxation after disciplining six, seventh and eight graders all week, I went and disciplined kids that weren’t following rules on the football field. And, so, you learn skills of being able to give bad news in a nice way ... “You need to know what you’re doing to be able to do a job, to be able to think through that, and those are the skills that you learn doing that help me when I have an irate parent coming in saying then, ‘Why is Johnny suspended for 10 days?’” he said. “Hopefully, you heard positive things from the staff at Mona Shores, that it [refereeing] has not negatively impacted my performance there,” he said. “In fact, I would say that it has, as I did a minute ago, that it has helped me. “Last year, I did 10 games,” said Geerlings. “One was at Michigan, one was at Michigan State. Northwestern is pretty close and one was at Purdue. I left five days, where I left at noon. And, on those days I, you can fly just about anyplace. If I leave Grand Rapids by noon, I can be wherever I need to be. Most of the time I do drive, though, and while I’m driving, my phone is on; I’ve got the ear plug so I’m not holding on to the phone although my wife will say that I don’t always do that. But, I am in constant communication while I’m, even when I’m not there. “But, five days I left at noon this year, there were two days I left. One day I left in the morning; I had a flight. I had to go to North Dakota, which was not a Big 10 assignment, and the check wasn’t as big either but I had to leave early that day,” he said. “So, one full day, five half days and a couple where I left right at three o’clock to get to a closer assignment. Other than that. It did not impact any of my duties. I was at every board meeting. I was at every staff meeting. I was at every parent teacher conference. I was at every skating party and all the other activities that were involved.” Geerlings said he believes his referee job will be beneficial for the district. “And I will tell you what, it is great advertising for the district,” he said. “If I had a dime, if I had a penny, for every time I had kids come up to me. Just the other day, every day, Monday, I work with some first graders, Tuesday, second graders, so on, had some fourth graders in the other day, and we were filling in things and so they needed a proper noun, or somebody’s name to put into the story — kind of a nonsense thing where they learn the parts of speech and so on — and they needed a first name and somebody said, ‘Mr. Geerlings what’s your first name?’ and four of the kids turned around and looked at him and said, ‘It’s Todd,’ ‘Well, how’d you know?’ Well on the Big 10 network it says ‘Todd Geerlings’ when we make an announcement and the kids, you know, the kids love it. And so do many of the parents. It’s great, that’s the most rewarding part of it for me is the feedback you get from parents and students about, ‘Hey, I saw you on TV,’ and they’re seeing part of their school district on TV, and so it’s nice, personally, to do that, but it’s also great, I think, for the district.” Trustee Dan Patton said several people from the community had approached him an expressed concerns that Geerlings’ second job might interfere with his duties as superintendent. Just the other day, every day, Monday, I work with some first graders, Tuesday, second graders, so on, had some fourth graders in the other day, and we were filling in things and so they needed a proper noun, or somebody’s name to put into the story — kind of a nonsense thing where they learn the parts of speech and so on — and they needed a first name, and somebody said, ‘Mr. Geerlings what’s your first name?’ and four of the kids turned around and looked at him and said, ‘It’s Todd,’ ‘Well, how’d you know?’ Well on the Big 10 network it says ‘Todd Geerlings’ when we make an announcement and the kids, you know, the kids love it. And so do many of the parents. Todd Geerlings “I think either candidate could do the job, quite frankly,” Patton said. “I think they would come at it from two very different perspectives; but, I guess the only underlying issue is the officiating. And, I’ll say it, I’ll say this now, is that ... I thought long and hard about that, but we have had other superintendents who hunt. We’ve had other superintendents that fish ... So I don’t know if I’m questioning it or justifying it. It is a little bit of a concern for me moving forward; but, ultimately, I think Jon summarized some of the qualities [Geerlings] does bring forward— his experience at different levels, elementary, middle school and high school, and certainly central office is something that struck me ... ” Beck said he went on the site visit to Mona Shores and asked employees there if they felt Geerlings’ officiating interests interfered with his duties as superintendent. “I alleviate my concern about that,” said Beck. “I know in the past, he has missed about two days then, this was in the last couple years, then there was four half-days or less. So, and, it was not a concern to me. I’m actually glad somebody has outside interests; uhm, I think that’s important, Everyone thought so. I think it’s great. It did not seem to be, a major, major impediment to their district. We asked from the superintendent to his secretary if they felt it was an issue, and they said it was not.” While Hart and other board members said they were impressed by Geerlings’ cake, name tags and decorating, and that he attended so many Hastings basketball games before MILLAGE, continued from page 1 support our students and staff in the best possible way.” Beck said the campaign should continue, but May 8 was not the time. Trustee Dan Patton asked Beck when the district would consider putting the proposal on the ballot. “August? November? 2013?” Patton asked. “What are we looking at? Any idea? Is the finance committee looking at it? Any timeline for us?” Beck said the finance committee was looking at the millage. “... May, August, November and February are the election dates,” he said. “When this was initially proposed, the May date was chosen, and it was a very aggressive timeline and, in doing so, everything had to stack up absolutely right to do it now. I think it has to be reevaluated. As I said, we are having new budgeting numbers moving forward, and we’re going to have the new superintendent. We have to give them time to look at it. I think it is fair to them. With that new information, I think that is the right thing to do.” Patton said, based on the numbers he saw during the board’s budget workshop earlier that evening, he felt the district needed to do everything it could to reduce costs and generate revenue. “I want to make sure, if it is a viable opportunity, that it stays on our radar screen,” he said. “I don’t want this to come off as if it’s being dismissed, that we’re not doing, that it didn’t have support, that we weren’t doing the right process,” said Beck. “I think, and look- he was offered the post, Haas expressed concern. He addressed the audience and his fellow board members in the work session Tuesday which immediately followed a special budget workshop presented by financial consultant Don Sovey. “I am very disappointed with the recommendation for Todd Geerlings from this perspective; actually, two perspectives,” Haas said. “We have, in my mind, an imbalance of priorities in this district, and I think this is an opportunity to try to correct that imbalance. “For those of you who were paying close attention to those numbers we were seeing in our budget workshop, we spend more on the subsidy for athletics than we do for alternative education,” said Haas. “We spend hardly anything on the arts — vocal and band, theater. Our vocational education program — had it not been for a vocational committee that’s outside the school district really making some efforts to make some opportunities available — is dying on the vine. And, I feel to have another jock come in as the principal administrator of this building just heightens ing, trying to gather the information, the financial information, anybody if I’m incorrect, we, it, it was a timing issue. We couldn’t get the right information to the millage committee so they could feel confident going forward to the voters, and I feel it is the right thing to pull this right now.” Beck thanked members of the Citizens for Education Committee which was formed to help promote and support Hastings Area Schools, starting with the millage proposal. Co-chair of the Citizens for Education Committee, Mark Kolanowski issued the following statement to the press Wednesday: “While we recognize the real need for generating revenue for our schools, the Citizens for Education Committee could not support the Hastings Area School District’s request for a recreational millage at this time. “The expenditures covered by this type of millage are specific community recreational expenses only. From the information provided to us by the district, it was our determination that more time is needed to properly measure and allocate these expenses before a meaningful proposal could be taken to the voters. “We believe our committee has served an important purpose in this process and we remain committed to the students of this district and the quality of their education. It is our intent to move forward and establish a positive working relationship with our new superintendent. We need to work collectively on the issues that the district will face in the future.” that imbalance, moving away from what is good for the majority of the kids. “The other thing that deeply concerns me about Mr. Geerlings is his affiliation with the Big 10 ... ” said Haas. “If we think back to the two superintendents that were here long-term, and I refer specifically to Mr. [Carl] Schoessel, it was very common for Carl to work 50 or more hours a week. It was not at all unusual for him to work 60 hours or more a week. And there are those of us in this room that have seen him work 70-plus hours a week. I think that is the kind of commitment to the students of this district, to the parents of this district, that this school district desperately needs right now. Somebody that is going to fly off, or drive off, to go referee football games, he’s not going to be paying attention to our needs. From that perspective, I am disappointed.” Haas said he would feel better if Geerlings agreed to give up his refereeing sideline and “We have, in my mind, an imbalance of priorities in this district, and I think this is an opportunity to try to correct that imbalance. “For those of you who were paying close attention to those numbers we were seeing in our budget workshop, we spend more on the subsidy for athletics than we do for alternative education,” said Haas. “We spend hardly anything on the arts — vocal and band, theater. Our vocational education program — had it not been for a vocational committee that’s outside the school district really making some efforts to make some opportunities available — is dying on the vine. And, I feel to have another jock come in as the principal administrator of this building just heightens that imbalance, moving away from what is good for the majority of the kids. Trustee Gene Haas focus on being the superintendent of Hastings Area Schools. Although Treasurer Rob Longstreet ultimately voted in favor of offering the position to Geerlings, saying he felt he needed to show support for the new superintendent, he also expressed concerns about Geerlings and said Urquhart was a better candidate for the post. “Like Jon, this was a very easy decision for me. Unfortunately, my decision was the opposite,” he said. “I went in to this process with something in my mind that was personal to me perhaps not consistent with what the rest of the board was looking for ... My goal, going into this situation, was to find the best candidate who could bring to this job the expectations and the proven track record of not just acceptable performance but excellence. That’s all I was looking for — excellence. That’s all I wanted.” Longstreet said he was thrilled with Urquhart’s history of excellence. “When you type in Terry’s name on the Internet his name shows up under ‘Nationally recognized high school,’ He shows up on every Realtors’ page in the Grand Rapids area. He is used as a reason to move to Grand Rapids. His school is promoted as a reason to move to Grand Rapids. That’s what I want for Hastings,” Longstreet said. “With all due respect, the doughnuts, shaving the head, that’s great, and I think that Todd appears to be an excellent man and an excellent candidate; but, what I want is a proven track record of excellence in schools.” During the meeting, Longstreet used his smartphone to show fellow board members stories online that said Forest Hills Central has led Michigan High Schools in scores on the Michigan Merit Exam for the past four years and has earned the by U.S. News and World Reports’ America’s Best High School Award over the past five years. Longstreet said the budget, student population and number of staff at Forest Hills Central High School is comparable to the entire Hastings school district, and Urquhart is leading the country in what he does. “He is applying to lead our school district, and we’re not taking advantage of that,” he said, “I frankly, don’t get it ... What I was looking for was someone to come to this district and give us a reason to believe that excellence was attainable and this is how excellence can be achieved — because he’s done it; he’s done it every year at his high school and it is nationally recognized.” “With all due respect, the doughnuts, shaving the head, that’s great, and I think that Todd appears to be an excellent man and an excellent candidate; but, what I want is a proven track record of excellence in schools.” Treasurer Rob Longstreet Longstreet said he is impressed that Urquhart is the principal of a school where excellence is demanded by students, parents, staff and administration and that demand is met. “That is exactly what we are craving here,” he said, “Someone that raises that bar to a level that we didn’t even know existed. Longstreet said that if Hastings Area Schools were already at the level of Forest Hills Central, Geerlings would be an ideal candidate. See GEERLINGS, pg. 14 BALTIMORE, continued from page 1 sale,” pointed out McKeever. “If somebody wanted to buy the property and invest in it, this could all be an issue. But we own the property, we can’t change that.” To the Cases request for written permission to access the property for a possible sale examination, McKeever suggested that the board draw up a permission agreement stating a specific expiration date. Ypma committed to providing that document with board signatures to the Cases by March 19. The suggestion was likely McKeever’s last as a board member. At the evening’s conclusion, he submitted his resignation, effective immediately, due to requirements of a new job forbidding any partisan community service. “I always felt that it wasn’t the best thing to have both a husband and wife serving on a board anyway,” said McKeever following the meeting in regard to the fact that his wife, Jennifer, holds the board’s treasurer position. “But, at the time I was appointed and then ran, I was concerned about who might occupy the position.” The McKeevers didn’t exhibit family loyalty Tuesday. On a vote to resolve a delinquent tax payment to the Eaton County Intermediate School District, Chad McKeever was the lone dissenting vote on a motion made by his wife that the board provide the $2,149 owed if the Eaton County board did not forgive the oversight at its own meeting Wednesday. “It’s not that I’m against the payment,” Chad McKeever told Tuesday’s audience of a mistaken failure to assess a special education property tax on 15 parcels, “it’s just that I feel the mistake made was not all our fault. I would rather have seen an attempt to share the payment with others who were also at fault.” Chad McKeever may have had the biggest surprise of the night, but it was not the only one — and it did not come from board members. As Ypma was outlining preparations being made for the May 8 recreational millage election for the Hastings Area School System, she was informed by a shout from the audience that the millage request had been canceled. “It is?” queried a puzzled Ypma. “The county’s already printed absentee ballots, and we’re working on our mailing list for them.” As Ypma was receiving the news, the Hastings school board was taking action to rescind the vote. (An accompanying article in the Banner provides the board’s explanation.) Ypma was also able to report that the Barry County Clerk had awarded her election day team a “gold star” for its stellar work during last month’s presidential primary. Dee DeFields, Mary Baker, Sandy Olmstead, Judy Schieffer and Jake Ypma have worked with Ypma for eight years and demonstrated another highlight at Tuesday’s meeting. Though informative, celebratory and at times raucous, Tuesday’s meeting did defer to County Commissioner Jeff VanNortwick, who was on hand to provide his county commission report, for comedic relief just previous to adjournment. After being introduced by Ron Miller, Van Nortwick was quick to respond. “Do you have them warmed up, Ron?” Van Nortwick asked. “I hope so because you’re sure a tough act to follow.” The next meeting of the Baltimore Township Board is Tuesday, April 10 at 7 p.m. in the township hall at 3100 E. Dowling Rd. Another street to be partially closed in Hastings, beginning today The Michigan Department of Transportation will have single-lane closure on M-37 between Broadway and Jefferson streets in Hastings, from 8 a.m. Thursday, March 15, through 5 p.m. Friday, March 30, for gas main relocation. Vehicles wider than eight feet, six inches, will be prohibited during the closure. For additional information on traffic conditions and construction projects, visit www.michigan.gov/drive. 06775736 Messer Road home destroyed in Sunday blaze A structure fire was reported at 5211 Messer Road near Freeport around 8:15 p.m. Sunday, March 12. Hastings and Woodland fire departments assisted the Freeport department, as well as, Mercy Ambulance and the Barry County Sheriff's Department. No one was injured. The fire was contained to the house and is considered a total loss. A neighbor reported that the fire rekindled at 8:05 a.m. the following morning. Woodland and Hastings again provided aid to Freeport. No one was home at the time of the rekindled fire. (Photo courtesy of Mark Sheldon) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 15, 2012 — Page 3 Hastings FFA has state winner, runner-up Hastings FFA members participated in the 84th Michigan FFA State Convention at Michigan State University March 7 to 9. More than 1,500 FFA members from over 100 different FFA chapters from all across the state of Michigan participated in numerous career development events. Several Hastings FFA students from both the high school and middle school FFA competed in leadership contests, band and choir. Becky Maurer from Hastings Middle School FFA was the state winner in the creed speaking contest. Ethan Haywood from the Hastings High School FFA was the state runner-up in the prepared public speaking contest. Competing in the parliamentary procedure contest was the Hastings FFA Blue team which took home a silver award. Members are Allie Porter, Andy Slocum, Katie Endsley, Katy Kesler, Kraig Morris, Mitchell Philley and Hannah Tebo. Representing Hastings in the parliamentary procedure competition at the state convention are FFA members (front row, from left) Katie Endsley, Allie Porter, Hannah Tebo, Katy Kesler, (back) Andy Slocum, Mitchell Philley and Kraig Morris Representing the Hastings FFA Chapter as delegates were Austin Haywood, Ethan Haywood and Ashley Stanton. They attended several business convention sessions, toured the state Capitol and voted on state FFA officer candidates. Brandon Miller and Rachael Senard performed with the State FFA Band and at the different convention sessions. Hannah LaJoye and Alicia Risk sang in the State FFA Choir, which was directed by Melissa Risk. The choirs also had several performances at vari- Rachel Senard and Brandon Miller, as members of the State FFA Band, played in several performances during the three-day convention. Alicia Risk (left) and Hannah LaJoye represent Hastings FFA as they perform with the State FFA Choir. (Photo courtesy of Laura Krhovsky) ous convention sessions with LaJoye and Risk featured as soloists. Advisors for the Hastings chapter are Ed Domke and Carrie Carl. Dennis Pennington, Boyd Endsley and Luke Haywood serve as coaches. The National FFA Organization is the largest youth organization in the world and makes a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. Ethan Haywood, a sophomore from Hastings High School, delivers his prepared speech in front of 1,500 FFA members and guests, in the finals of the event. He is a state runner-up and will be an alternate to the national FFA convention. (Photo courtesy of Laura Krhovsky) County hopes its credit rating will bring better bond by Doug VanderLaan Editor The script isn’t quite complete, and casting calls have yet to be made, but Barry County Administrator Michael Brown told county commissioners Tuesday that there is quite a narrative to be told about Barry County. “There’s passion to this story, and I’m going to be selling all the good things that this county does,” said Brown. Brown was specifically referring to an upcoming Monday conference call with bond rating agencies and, though it might not bring the millions of dollars of a Hollywood blockbuster, an improved rating from its alreadystellar AA designation could bring Barry County increased respect in the financial markets and a commensurate boost in the price of the bonds it issues. Discussion at Tuesday’s meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners concerned approval to authorize issuance of general obligation bonds to finance the estimated $6 million construction of a 23-bed skilled nursing facility at the county’s Thornapple Manor medical care facility. Because the bonds will be issued under the good faith and credit of the county, they will carry the county’s current AA designation as rated by the Standard and Poor’s rating agency. A higher rating — for which Brown will appeal on Monday — would ensure a higher price for the bonds and a proportional decrease in the rate of interest on which the county would repay bondholders. “Our last bond rating came in 2009,” Brown told commissioners, “and, though we don’t anticipate any changes, we’ve put our financial rating agency on notice that we intend to push for an improved rating because we’ve done some things to posture ourselves very well.” Tuesday’s approval to issue the bonds — which came by unanimous vote — provided an opportunity for Brown and the board to reflect on just how inspiring the story of its financial management in dire economic times plays in the larger world. Key to the that story, Brown pointed out, was the Michigan State University study of property values commissioned by the board and completed in late 2010. The forecast of declining property values proved accurate enough that Brown and the board were able to generate budgets that not only produced the belt-tightening needed but also provided justification for the sometimes-painful cuts that were fashioned. “It wasn’t real easy,” reflected Commissioner Don Nevins, to which Brown was able to reply that “we’ve made tough choices, but we drew up budgets that were based on facts.” Commissioner Robert Houtman pointed out that fully funding the county’s tax delinquency fund was another area to be highlighted. “We didn’t just adopt that policy,” contended Houtman, “we set a benchmark. No one ever had a policy before.” Since the policy has now been replicated by other boards, Nevins quipped that Barry County should have patented the idea and sold it. As Brown explained after the meeting, when member townships fail to collect delinquent taxes in a new year, the county is able to provide needed financial coverage until full restitution is made. Until it set aside between $9 and $10 million in a tax delinquency fund, Barry County — and most other counties in the state — borrowed money to reimburse townships, an interest cost that now Barry County no longer is forced to pay. “It sounds small,” said Brown, “but it doesn’t put us in a position to have to borrow. And then we can use the capital to address other needs.” Primarily, those needs have been in three areas: data processing, building rehabilitation and vehicle replacement. All three represent infrastructure areas that, because they are being regularly addressed, do not become major financial headaches at a later date. “There is a lot of pride in our culture,” summed up Brown to the board, “and it starts with you setting the tone and ends with our departments that build on that culture. “Standard and Poor’s job is to be sure that people who buy these bonds understand the Barry County story. It’s a lot about numbers, but it’s so much more than numbers, too.” In other business, the board: • Heard Commissioner Jeff VanNortwick address the negative effects that home and property foreclosures have on local units of government. VanNortwick read into the record a letter addressed to him by the Michigan State University Extension Service in which the agency urged local government officials to make residents aware of the many local resources available to avoid foreclosure. Board Chair Craig Stolsonburg, echoed VanNortwick’s concern and, speaking as a Realtor, said residents often wait until it is too late to request assistance. Even after a sher- iff’s sale, property owners don’t realize they still have six months to address their financial situation, pointed out Stolsonburg, adding that, in many cases, “they just need to ask for help.” • Approved the retention of Gabriel Roeder Smith and Company of Southfield to complete the Dec. 31, 2010, valuation of the Barry County Retiree Health Care Plan as required by the Governmental Accounting Standards Board. • Approved the extension of the monumentation surveyor agreement between the county and participating surveyors for one-year period. • Approved an amendment to the parks and recreation board bylaws, allowing the increase of the number of citizen-at-large positions on the board from four to five. • Approved the re-appointment of Pamela Jarvis and Gerald Pattok and the appointment of Melissa Swientoniowski to the Barry County Mental Health and Substance Abuse Board. • Received notice of a special planning meeting Thursday, April 12, at 9 a.m. Agenda items to be discussed include the agricultural and open space preservation ordinance to be led by consultant Rich Harlow; the road commission governance bill recently signed into law by Gov. Rick Snyder; the governor’s economic vitality incentive program; court security issues; board and committee assignments for commissioners; and the 2013 budget. • Heard a report from VanNortwick, who attended the 2012 National Farmers Union meeting in Omaha, Neb., last week. VanNortwick said the unemployment rate in the agribusiness-intense states of Nebraska and Iowa stands at 4.1 percent and that United States farmers generated a $40 billion export surplus in 2011, illustrating that “American farmers feed the world.” • Heard Hastings resident Frank Campbell announce his candidacy for a county commission seat from the newly formed District 1. Campbell pointed out that he had worked for the City of Hastings for nearly 40 years, as served it for 26 years as an elected official — eight as mayor, and has served as a vice president with the Michigan Municipal League. The next meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners is a committee of the whole meeting scheduled for Tuesday, March 20, in the commission’s meeting chambers at the county courthouse. Delegates for the Hastings FFA chapter are Austin Haywood (left), Ashley Stanton and Ethan Haywood. 77566466 �Page 4 — Thursday, March 15, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Kellogg Community College campus pays off In little more than a week, the look of the Michigan Avenue bridge has changed. As of Monday, March 13, temporary sewage pipes have been installed to bypass the bridge during demolition and construction. Concrete in the bridge has been cut into segments and is being removed from the site. Vibration-monitoring equipment has also been installed so bridge replacement activities will not damage nearby properties. All businesses in the area remain open. (Photo by Dave DeDecker) We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. We’ll select a photograph for publication each week and post the others to our website for all to enjoy. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Do you know? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@jadgraphics.com, or call 269-945-9554. Last week’s photo of a boys basketball team was recognized by several readers as Delton Kellogg’s varsity, or first team, in 1949. The team was victorious in the Eaton Barry Ionia County Tournament Feb. 8 to 11, 1949, and the second team, made up of freshmen and sophomores, also took first in their bracket. Then in March, the district tournament was in Lake Odessa and included Thornapple Kellogg, Caledonia and lake Odessa, beating the latter two to move on to regional play at Greenville. Pictured in the photo are (front row, from left) Norman Forshey, Frank Rector, Gene Bourdo, (back) Coach Jurgensen, Jim Gallagher, Emil Peterson, John Lawrence, Merle Schley and Keith Johncock. Do you recognize these three men who appear to be looking at documents regarding the Masons? Do you know why the photo was taken, or where? Follow-up on March 1 “Bundles” photo ... Madeline Zeigler of Hastings called to identify the woman on the right as Jessie Williams. Madeline worked at Orchard Industries, where the photo was taken, beginning in 1951. She said Williams was bundling sections of fishing rods, preparing to send them to the winding department where guides would then be applied. Retha Green, the woman on the left, was putting ferrules on the tips of the sections of fishing rods, she added. Have you What do you from the increased activity from the local facility. The Futuring Committee had completed a survey of the county’s voters, receiving strong support for the availability of a local campus for continuing education and community college classes. It just shows you what can happen when community members and local governments work together on projects that end up benefiting taxpayers. It’s a novel idea, but one that seems forgotten at times. In recent weeks, our reporters have uncovered a number of local stories where government leaders acted alone, or with little regard of the outcome for local taxpayers. From questionable contracts, land deals, to the spending of taxpayer dollars with little or no explanation, elected officials have been determined to do the people’s business behind closed doors. It’s easy for people to overlook what’s going on with local government. Most of us have busy schedules and plenty of our own problems, so we rely on our elected representatives to do just that, represent us. But, in reality that’s not always what happens. If the citizens of Barry County want transparent government, then they must attend the meetings when possible or at least read about them and keep up on the issues of the day. Good government doesn’t just happen – it starts by electing the best people for the jobs and with an active electorate demanding accountability at all levels of government. Public officials often divide news into two categories, one which garners good publicity and the other which doesn’t. The “doesn’t” category is usually is where you find the best news. Our representatives need to follow this simple rule: Keep the people informed on all the issues, the good, bad and the ugly. ~~~~ Weather plays a major role in our attitude. There’s nothing like a sunny 60-plus degree day in early March to bring everyone out of their homes to enjoy a beautiful weekend. For us in Barry County the winter’s been tolerable, but just the same, last weekend people were out walking through town enjoying the beautiful day. I drove through town and noticed people walking on the city’s new river walk, some with their pets. People were out in their yards, picking up debris left from the winter winds. It was also a great day to wash and vacuum vehicles or just to take a ride around town. I saw motorcycles, kids on bikes and golfers returning to the course. All the things you’d expect on one of the first warm weekends of spring. According to the National Weather Bureau, it was one of the mildest winters recorded since 1939. Looking back, it was pure living in mid-America – I just hope we don’t pay for it with dangerous storms usually brought on by unseasonably warm weather in early March. In the meantime, get out and enjoy one of Michigan’s best seasons – it’s spring! Fred Jacobs, vice president, J-Ad Graphics think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website, www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. Don’t forget to leave an opinion or comment. met? Roger Trowbridge is dedicated to helping young people achieve their fullest potential. Four years ago, he shared a vision to establish a tutoring program in the Maple Valley School District. Trowbridge estimates that 130 children have benefited from the extra help. In addition to tutoring, he has coached junior high track, baseball and football, led youth groups and after-school Christian education programs averaging 65 to 85 kids. Trowbridge is married to Sue and together they have raised a blended family of six children. He is a machinist at Feree’s Tools in Battle Creek, making tools to repair musical instruments. Favorite movie: “Facing the Giants,” about facing personal fears and barriers. Best advice: “No matter what you’re doing, when you get done, sit down and ask In the newspaper business, writing a weekly column adds to the responsibility of my weekly obligations. Most of the time, the pleasure I get from putting it together each week out weighs the amount of time it takes, in fact some times it almost writes itself. Each week there seems to be more than enough issues to write about. Yet, once in a while I find myself in the middle of an issue, where the details are sketchy or enough information hasn’t become public yet, so I don’t want to end up, as they say, jumping the gun. This was one of those weeks; due to the fact the subject I choose to write about remains up in the air, so I guess I’m going to have to wait until all the information becomes available for that column. So, instead, I decided to report on Kellogg Community Colleges decision to pay off the bonds for its facility nearly four years early. In November, Kellogg Community College paid in full its nearly $3 million dollar bond issue to construct and operate a satellite campus just west of Hastings in Rutland Township, which later became known as the Fehsenfeld Center. The 20,000-square-foot educational facility opened in the fall of 1996. Looking back to 1995, when KCC began to lay the groundwork for the new facility, the project became headline news as the college’s former President, Paul Ohm, went before the county commission with plans for the county to support the project by authorizing the county building authority to acquire and construct the project financing the cost by issuing bonds. The plan would allow the county’s building authority to lease the facility to the county which, in turn, would sublease the project to KCC. KCC officials said the college would repay the county for the principal and interest on the bonds and all related expenses over a maximum of 20 years which, in November 2011, it did by paying the county in full. As part of the its responsibility, the county pledged its full faith and credit behind the bond sale, which meant that if for any reason KCC should not be able to pay for the project, the site and building would go back to the county to recoup its investment. If the county wasn’t able to sell the property and facility, the county’s property taxpayers would be left with the bill. Yet, supporters of the project told county leaders that the chances of that happening weren’t likely. Up until that time, KCC had been holding classes at Hastings High School for evening and limited daytime schedules. The community overwhelmingly embraced the project, garnering support from the Barry Community Foundation, Hastings Mutual, Viking, E.W. Bliss, Flexfab and others along with the Barry County Futuring Committee, which was the group laying the groundwork for attracting KCC’s permanent facility to the county. The Futuring Committee worked with KCC leadership to build the campus without a countywide millage with the understanding that the county would issue bonds making it possible to finance the project. The bonds would then be paid back with proceeds from a business model yourself, ‘How could I do it better?” — from my father, Vernon Trowbridge. Person you most admire: Andrea and Mark Montgomery, they are just fantastic people. Cream rises to the top, and they sure are the cream. Book I would recommend: The Bible, the Book of Life is a book of instruction full of illustrations and situations. I learn from them. Favorite vacation destination: We have a rustic cabin back in the woods at Sunrise Lake in Leroy. That is my favorite vacation destination. Best thing about this area: The beautiful, rolling hills, lakes and forest areas. Roger Trowbridge Last week’s question: The NCAA basketball championship begins next week, and both the University of Michigan and Michigan State University are expected to receive bids. Who do you think will go farther in the tournament? 84% 16% For this week: Meteorologist Bill Steffen of WOOD-TV says next week will be warmer in Hastings than it will be in Phoenix, Ariz. Are you in favor of an early spring or do you miss winter? q I miss winter q Let’s heat ‘er up Michigan State Michigan Read The BANNER every week! Copies conveniently available on newsstands throughout the Barry County area. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 15, 2012 — Page 5 Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Two school groups joining Thornapple Wind Band in free concert Sunday For an afternoon of music and fun, head to the Hastings High School lecture hall at 3 p.m. Sunday, March 18. The Thornapple Wind Band will close out its season by performing “National Emblem March,” “Holst’s Second Suite for Military Band,” a medley of songs from “Les Miserables,” and will be joined by area high school seniors for “The Blue and the Gray” (a Civil War suite) by Clare Grundman. The Thornapple Wind Band is directed by Dave Macqueen, former Lakewood band director. Joining the Thornapple Wind Band will be Maple Syrup Day is Saturday at Kellogg Forest Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. The Hastings Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Helen Mudry • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere Local residents can celebrate the first agricultural crop to be harvested and the return of spring during Maple Syrup Day at MSU’s W.K. Kellogg Experimental Forest Saturday, March 17. Visitors can take the day to enjoy the forest’s transition to spring and explore the art of maple syrup production. Kellogg Forest and Kellogg Biological Station volunteers will host special activities from noon to 5 p.m. Events will include a wagon ride to the sugar bush, a tapping demonstration, Maple Manor and tasting a fresh syrup sample. Children’s activities will include face painting, creating “tree cookie” medallions and playing a traditional game. Admission is $1 per person (children 2 years old and younger are free). For more information, call 269-731-4597. Kellogg Forest is located at 7060 N. 42nd St., Augusta, south of Hickory Corners, Thursday, March 15 — Pizza and Pages discuss The House of Scorpion by Nancy Farmer, 3:45 to 5 p.m.; Movie Memories celebrates the little gem “The Red Shoes,” 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, March 16 — preschool story time enjoys St. Patrick’s Day, 10:30 to 11; second round of the teen video game tournament, 4 to 6 p.m. Monday, March 19 — winter reading club for adults continues; library board meets, 4 to 4 p.m.; computer class is taking on Microsoft Powerpoint, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 20 — toddler story time enjoys the stories of Aliki, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30; open chess club, 6 to 8 p.m. Call the Hastings Public Library for more information, 269-945-4263. 77566479 Owner Thinking of Retiring After 36 Years DOG LOVERS / RESCUE GROUPS / BEST FRIENDS / VETERINARIANS State of the Art Kennel Facility - Est. 1976- Excellent Reputation for 36 yrs. Check photo gallery at www.uncletedsfreestonekennels.com Licensed and approved to house 60 dogs. Two separate buildings to board dogs / cats / grooming. Lots of room to expand on improved building sites. Locate your Vet Clinic / Rescue / sanctuary on this 16.23 acre parcel 900 of frontage on M-37. Comes with owners or caretakers house, 2 kennel buildings, 2 out buildings. Latest expansion completed in 2008, 4,500 sq. ft. with radiant heat, state of the art grooming facility, office space, reception area. PURCHASE OPTIONS • ASKING PRICE: $400,000.00 FIRM 1. $ 75,000 minimum down payment. Work together. You make $1,000.00 or more per month payment till $200,000 is reached. Remaining 50% on a 20 year contract at 4% interest. 2. Get $200,000 – down take over completely. 3. Buy it now, Run it now. For $400,000 – Earn 50 – 100 – $200,000 a year. PARENTS AND GRAND PARENTS Wonder if your kids will ever find a job enabling them to earn more than $30 - $40,000 a year or more! Consider this an investment in their future - House, Business, room to expand, scenic acreage in the country. – Or – Two or three dog lovers could go in together, move a caretaker or manager into house. MAKE YOUR DREAMS COME TRUE! For Appointment, Please send letter of interest to: Freestone Kennels 15591 S. M-37 Hwy, Battle Creek, MI 49017 PLEASE NO PHONE CALLS! OR DROP-INS WITHOUT APPOINTMENTS. A modern method of collecting sap is used at the W.K. Kellogg Experimental Forest, but old-fashioned syrup and wagon rides will be available. (File photo) by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Due to scheduled road and bridge reconstruction on North Broadway this year, the annual Hastings Memorial Day Parade will take a different route than in previous years. Instead of ending with wreath-laying and a Memorial Day speech at Riverside Cemetery, a wreath-laying ceremony and brief speech will be given at the veterans memorials on the southeast corner of the Barry County Courthouse lawn. During its regular meeting Monday, the Hastings City Council unanimously approved the request for the alternate parade route suggested by Jim Atkinson, chairperson of the Hastings American Legion Post. The parade will step off at 9:30 a.m. Monday, May, 28 from the corner of East State Street and Boltwood and proceed west on State Street to the corner of Church, where the ceremony will be conducted. At the conclusion, the parade will proceed south on Church to Center, where it will turn east and conclude at the former Felpausch parking lot. In other business, the council: • Held a second reading and approved an ordinance that establishes regulations regarding the construction of handicap access ramps in the city. The ordinance was approved by a 6-3 vote with council trustees Brenda McNabb-Stange, Waylon Black and Dave Jasperse dissenting. Before the vote, McNabb-Stange expressed concern that the city could be held liable if a ramp that was inspected and approved later failed and caused injury. • Unanimously approved a five-year extension of its contract with Mercy Ambulance and authorized mayor Bob May and clerk HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 This 17-piece band has been directed by Dave Fair since the fall of 2011. He is currently working toward his bachelor of music education degree at Alma College and is co-chair of the Alma College/Hohner Institute of Percussion Summer Workshop. He’s played with the percussion ensemble at festivals such as the Detroit International Jazz Festival and won outstanding soloist at the Notre Dame Collegiate Jazz Festival. The public is invited to join the band for a reception following the concert. The Thornapple Wind Band was formed in 1996 to enrich the lives of its members and the surrounding community by offering concerts several times a year. The concerts are free, though donations to support the band’s costs are welcome. All adult musicians are encouraged to join. For more information, call Bill Johnson, 269-795-3729, or email johnsonbill1971@sbcglobal.net. Memorial Day Parade will have alternate route Know Your Legislators: U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. the Hastings High School Women’s Honors Choir and the Hastings High School Steel Drum Band. The women’s honors choir is directed by Hastings choir director Patti LaJoye, who will be assisted by intern teacher, James Stano. They will be performing “I Never Saw A Moor,” “Diu Diu Dang A” and “A Dream Within A Dream.” The 31-member choir recently performed at the district choral festival and received a first division rating. In addition to a full performance schedule, the group sings the national anthem at local sporting events and recently participated in the Southwest Michigan Vocal Festival where they performed in Miller Auditorium in Kalamazoo. The steel drum band will be playing the traditional island music such bands are known for, as well as classic jazz charts and popular music, including “Oye Como Va,” “Norwegian Wood” and “Margaritaville.” Call anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads 269-945-9554 77566459 Tom Emery to sign the contract. • Approved a contract with the Michigan Department of Transportation for completion of work on the city’s water and sewer infrastructure located within MDOT’s upcoming projects on Green Street and South Broadway (M-37) and North Broadway (M-43). The city has asked MDOT to have its contractors repair a number of the city’s sanitary sewer manholes located in the roadway on South M37 and fire hydrants on North M-43. The cost for the work was included in the city’s capital improvements plan. • Received a report from Hastings City Manager Jeff Mansfield that the city had recently entered a contract with Plummer’s Environmental Services to remove accumulated grit from the wet well for primary pumps and several process lines at the wastewater treatment plant. The grit had accumulated to the point where it was interfering with the controls for the primary wastewater pumps and needed to be removed. No action was needed from the council, but city employees are required to advise the council of any expenditures in excess of $5,000. The company’s initial bid for grit removal was $4,880 with an additional $3,252 for pumping the plant’s influent around the wet well during the process. • Heard a report Hastings Director of Public Services Tim Girrbach, who said his staff is still working with Mike Sertle from Ducks Unlimited to find funding sources to restore Sweezy’s Pond to its prior condition. The pond was drained after the road that dams the pond collapsed last spring. Girrbach said they have had no success in finding grants to cover the engineering and construction costs which are estimated at approximately $72,000. �Page 6 — Thursday, March 15, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Call 269-945-9554 any time for Hastings Banner classified ads Area Obituaries Paul Richard Holzmuller Worship Together… Arnold J. (Arnie) Wilson Iris Lucile (Baldwin) Clum 77566306 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. ORANGEVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH 6921 Marsh Rd., 2 miles south of Gun Lake, Plainwell. Phone 269664-4377. OrangevilleBaptist. org. Pastors Dan Bowman and Adam Parmenter. Sundays - 9:45--10:45 a.m. “Dealing With Your Past” March through May. March 25 - 6 p.m. “Messiah in the Passover’ Seder Meal. March 31 - 7 p.m. Orangeville Cafe. April 8 - 7:30 & 11 a.m. Easter Celebration. April 22-27 - Evangelist Will Rice. Children, teen and adult Sunday School classes; 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Worship; 5:30 p.m. Junior and Senior High Word of Life Clubs. Tuesday - 9 a.m. Men’s Prayer and Bible Study. Wednesday - 6:30 p.m. Pre-school through 6th grade Word of Life Gophers & Olympians. Prayer & Bible Study - 7 p.m. 6 p.m. Teen Word of Life. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Paul Osborn, Minister of Music; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service, Jr. & Sr. High Groups. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. HASTINGS SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH 904 Terry Lane, Hastings (or on the corner of Starr School Road and Terry Lane.) Phone: (269) 9452170. Pastor Michael Wise. Sabbath www.hastingssda.com (Saturday) School 9:30 a.m.; worship service 10:50 a.m. Mid-week meetings informal study and prayer service, Wednesdays 7 p.m. Youth ministry clubs, Adventurers for preschool to 4th grade students and Pathfinders for 5th grade students through high school, meet on the first and third Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. and first and third Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. respectively. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. CHURCH OF THE LIVING GOD A full gospel church. 1240 W. State Rd., Hastings. Pastor Doug Davis. 269-948-9740. Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study 6 p.m. Sunday School and Youth Group for all ages. Come and worship the Lord with us! . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Phone 269-721-8077. Minister Ryan Wieland 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Praise Worship Service; Noon alternate weekends Youth Group Tuesday. Covenant Prayer Group, Wednes-day 6:30 p.m., Choir Practice. Thursday 7 p.m. Praise Band Practice. 2nd and 4th Thursdays at 7 p.m. Christ’s Quilters. Friday 6:30 p.m., CPRChrist’s Plan for Recovery (meal served). For more information small groups, special evnts or if you have a prayer requst, call the church office and see postings on WEB site: www.countrychapel.umc.org. SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Cronk cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 2 p.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-797-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nash-ville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 or -517-852-1806. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS REFORMED CHURCH “A Historic Reformed Community.” Sunday morning services begin at 10 a.m. Meeting at the Barry County Commission on Aging building, 320 W. Woodlawn Ave., Hastings. Pastor: Peter Adams. 616-690-8609 padams@juno.com. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 9:15 Contemporary Worship, 10:30 a.m. Refreshments, 11 a.m. Traditional Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Pastor of Senior Adults and Visitation, Don Brail. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. for children, youths and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Senior High Youth Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Mid-Week: 6:30-7:45 p.m. Pioneer Clubs, age 4th to 5th grade, and Junior High Youth Group, 6th-8th grade. Thursday: 10 a.m. Senior Adult Discussion and 11:30 a.m., lunch at Wendy’s. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Sunday, March 18 - Worship at 8 & 10:45 a.m. Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. Holy Communion Every Sunday! March 19 - Adventurers Bible Study at 7 p.m. March 21 Wordwatchers Bible Study at 10 a.m.; Lenten Supper 6 p.m.; Taize Lenten Worship 7 p.m. March 23 Clapper Kids Bell Choir at 3:45 p.m.; Adult Choir at 7 p.m. 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 945-2645, fax 269-945-2698. Pastor Amy Luckeyhttp://www.discovergrace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 10 a.m. Sunday School for All Ages; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service; 6 p.m. Youth Group; 6 p.m. Small Group Study. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blog spot.com. Thursday - 9 a.m. Men’s Bible Study; 11:30 Women’s Brown Bag Bible Study; 6:30 p.m. Choir Rehearsal. Friday - 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday - 10 a.m. Mom 2 Mom Sale; 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday - 4 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Tuesday - 1 p.m. Lenten Bible Study; 6:30 p.m. Women’s Bible Study. Wednesday 5 p.m. Pickleball; 6:30 p.m. Church Info Class. Fiberglass Products 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 Kenneth Stevens DELTON, MI - Kenneth Stevens, of Delton, went to be with his Savior and his beloved wife Brenda (Hatfield) Stevens on March 5, 2012. Kenneth was born December 1, 1948, the son of Kenneth J. and Georgia (Hayse) Stevens. A veteran, Kenneth proudly served his country in the U.S. Army. He was the owner and operator of Stevens Saw Mill in Delton for several years. Kenneth was an active member of the Church of God Family Worship Center in Kalamazoo, where he enjoyed spending time with the youth of the church. Kenneth enjoyed horses, hunting, fishing and riding his wave runner. On April 11, 1970, he married Brenda Hatfield who preceded him in death on March 7, 2004. Kenneth is survived by a son and daughterin-law, Kenneth and Melinda Hatfield; his mother, Georgia Stevens; brothers, Jim (Marsha) Stevens and Richard (Jene) Stevens; a grandson, Luke Hatfield, and many nieces and nephews. Kenneth was also preceded in death by his father. A funeral service was conducted, Thursday, March 8, 2012, at Faith United Methodist Church, 503 S. Grove (M-43) Delton, Pastor Edward L. Davis, officiating. Burial took place in Prairieville Cemetery. Memorial contributions to Church of God Family Worship Center Building Fund will be appreciated. Please visit www.williamsgoresfuneral. com to view and sign Kenneth's online guest book. Arrangements made by Williams-Gores Funeral Home, Delton. Margaret E. Brasher HASTINGS, MI - Margaret E. Brasher, age 48, of Hastings, passed away Wednesday, March 7, 2012 at Grand Rapids Metro Health Hospital. She was born August 17, 1963 in Chicago, IL, the daughter of William J. and Marilyn F. (Dalton) Gleason. Margaret graduated from Hubbard High School, Chicago, IL, in 1981. She married Michael Brasher on May 28, 1988. Margaret worked as a waitress. She was a member of the St. Jude League. Margaret was preceded in death by her mother, Marilyn Gleason; and mother and father-in-law, Frances and William Brasher. She is survived by her husband, Michael Timothy Brasher; son, Timothy William Brasher; daughter, Sarah Elizabeth Brasher; daughter, Rosemary Lynn Brasher; granddaughter, Lainah Elizabeth Brasher; father, William J. Gleason; sisters, Gayle Greene, Mary (Gary) Altman, Lenora (Bruce Johnson) Gleason, Beverly (Kevin) Bull; brothers, Eugene Blomquist, William (AnnMarie) Gleason, Jr.; and many beloved nieces and nephews. A funeral mass will be held Saturday, March 17, 2012, 10 a.m. at the St. Rose of Lima Church. Fr. Richard Altine, celebrant. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the funeral mass, at the church. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a message or memory to the family. Give the gift of NEWS! This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Lauer Family Funeral Homes United States Marine Corps and Vietnam Veteran Paul Richard Holzmuller died March 2, 2012 at the A. Alfred Taubman Health Care Center in the University of Michigan Health System at Ann Arbor at the age of 66. After five months of fighting cancer and associated complications, he is finally at peace. Paul leaves behind his wife Luba (Hastings); son Richard (SD); and daughters from previous relationships, Susan (VT), Kathleen (NJ), and Loraine (NJ). Arnold J. (Arnie) Wilson, age 83, of Waterford, and formerly of Hastings, passed away March 10, 2012, at his home. He was born in Battle Creek, the son of Charles and Hazel (Malosh) Wilson. Arnold is survived by his wife of 62 years, Margaret (McKelvey) Wilson; their children, Linda Custer, Victoria (Steve) Widman, and Kevin (Susie Sutherland) Wilson; his grandchildren, Leeah (Steve) Roberts, Matthew Custer, Megan Wilson and Heather Wilson; and also several nieces and nephews. Arnold was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Marguriette Cox; brother, Richard Rasey and son-in-law, Gordon Custer. Arnie graduated from Hastings High School in 1947 and graduated from Central Michigan University in 1952. He also received advanced degrees from the University of Michigan. Arnold was well known for his coaching of baseball and football as well as his career as a teacher and school administrator in Millington, Pontiac and Flushing School systems. Arnie enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing, camping and traveling throughout the United States and Canada. A funeral to celebrate Arnold’s life was held Wednesday, March 14, 2012 at 1 p.m. at Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings, pastor Don Spachman officiating. Burial followed the funeral service at Wilcox Cemetery, near Maple Grove. For those who wish, memorial contributions to the Alzheimers Association are appreciated. To read more about Arnold's life, to share a memory or photos, or to sign the guest book, please visit the Girrbach Funeral Home website as www.girrbachfuneralhome.net. 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 Send friends and family a gift subscription to The Hastings BANNER! To subscribe, call us a 269-945-9554 HASTINGS, MI - Iris Lucile (Baldwin) Clum was born April 24, 1926, in Hastings, the fifth child of Annie (Peck) and Ira Baldwin. She passed away March 6, 2012, in Yuma, AZ. Iris graduated from Hastings High School. She married LaVerne Clum in 1944 in the Hastings Methodist Church. The couple lived their entire life in the HastingsWoodland-Lake Odessa area. In 1981 they bought a second home in Yuma, Arizona, where they spent the winter months. Iris sold real estate for many years – first at Transue Realty and later at Formula Realty, both in Hastings. She retired in late 1986. Active throughout life, Iris’s passion was traveling. She visited all 50 states and over 60 foreign countries. She enjoyed seeing the Magellanic penguins in Chile, the Great Migration of animals in Africa, the Australian Outback, the 100 year old giant tortoises in the Galapagos, and the polar bears in Churchill, Manitoba, Canada, among others. When her children were young, Iris was highly involved in the Barry County 4-H program. She was a 4-H leader, mentoring dozens of young members. In Yuma, she was a charter member of the Yuma East Country Club, participating in all their activities and organizing many herself. At her Yuma church, Iris spent Monday mornings helping make quilts for the homeless. She was a member of the Lake Odessa Central United Methodist Church and the Gila Mountain United Methodist Church in Yuma, AZ. Iris was preceded in death by her husband, LaVerne George Clum; her three brothers, Robert, Miles and Carl; and sister, Louise. She is survived by her three children, Terry (David) Fassburg, Nancy (Gary) Spencer, and Jack (Paula) Clum; seven grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and long-time companion Leslie Soli. A celebration of Iris’s life will be held at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to your favorite charity. Patricia Anne LaVere BATTLE CREEK, MI - Patricia Anne LaVere, age 64, of Battle Creek, went home to be with her Lord on Thursday, March 8, 2012. Patricia was born June 29, 1947 in Pittsfield, PA to Ronald and Gladys (Cady) Brown. Patricia loved anything to do with crafts, especially knitting and crocheting. She also enjoyed playing the piano. But above all, Patricia loved the Lord. Patricia is survived by her daughter, Tabitha (Ray) Morris; two brothers, Raymond (Janet) Brown and Ronald Brown, Jr.; a sister, Pamela Cole; a grandson, Landon Morris; and her special lifelong friends, Donah (Bernie) Stanton and Jacob (Katlyn) Stanton. She was preceded in death by her parents. As per Patricia’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a memorial service to celebrate her life will be held at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to the family. Arrangements by the Farley-Estes & Dowdle Funeral Home. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 15, 2012 — Page 7 Martha Peak Wilma Jean “Billie” Morgan Leinaar Devries State News Roundup 100th anniversary of Girl Scouts exhibit at state museum HASTINGS, MI - Martha Peak, of Hastings, passed away March 12, 2012. Martha was born February 7, 1944, in Detroit, the daughter of Raymond and Ellen (Webber) Haney. Martha was a very skilled softball pitcher. Martha had a very strong faith in the Lord no matter what church she was a part of, which was shown through her very energetic trumpet playing and dedication to the Salvation Army. The focus of her life was always God's work. For many years she was the Marcellus Village Clerk. Martha is survived by by her husband Marvin Peak; stepdaughters, Valerie (John) Bartimus, and Marcia (David) Leinaar; stepsons, Jonathan (Lisa) Westfall and Jason (Karen) Westfall; brothers, John (Betty) Haney, and Jerry Haney; close friend Vickey Hallifax; and several nieces and nephews. Martha was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband. Raymond Westfall; brother, Jimmie Haney; and dear friend Peggy Brooks. A memorial service will be conducted Friday, March 16, 2012, at 11 a.m., with visitation at 10 a.m., at McCullum United Brethren Church, 5500 Otis Lake Road, Delton, with Pastor Ron Watterly officiating. Burial will take place in Brush Ridge Cemetery. Those who wish to make memorial contributions are asked to consider the needs of the family. Please visit www.williams-gores funeral.com to view and sign Martha's online guest book. GOODLETTSVILLE, TN - Wilma Jean “Billie” Devries, age 82, of Goodlettsville, TN, formerly of Hastings, passed way peacefully on Wednesday, February 29, 2012 at the Ridgetop Haven Nursing Home. She was born in Hastings on May 27, 1929 to Robert Morgan and Ola Dale McCarty Morgan. She was an assembly worker at Flexfab Manufacturing for 28 years. She loved country music, dancing, rides in the country and her favorite dog “Sissy.” She was a friendly person who never met a stranger and was always smiling. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by husbands, Boyd Haynes Leinaar and Reinert J. Devries. She is survived by sons, Richard Leinaar, Baldwin, David (Loyann) Leinaar, Baldwin, Peter J. (Rhonda) Leinaar, Hastings, John B. (Mary) Leinaar, Cross Plains, TN; daughters, Marilyn Marie Middleton, Cottontown, TN and Joyce Leinaar, Cross Plains, TN; sisters, Roberta Seaman, Spring Lake and Gerry Galligaugh, Marshall; sister-in-law, Florine Morgan, Hastings; 17 grandchildren; 30 great grandchildren; four great great grandchildren. A celebration of her life will be planned at a later date in Michigan. Austin & Bell Funeral Home, Greenbrier Chapel, 2619 Hwy. 41 S., Greenbrier, TN 37073; phone 615-643-4000. The Michigan Historical Museum will opened a special exhibit “Follow the Girls: 100 Years of Girl Scouting” Saturday, March 10. This special exhibit is filled with personal stories and artifacts of Girl Scouts past and present. “This isn’t just an exhibit about the Girl Scouts; it is created in part by the girls themselves. They’ve been here at the museum getting involved in the exhibit and helping tell the story of what the Girl Scouts have accomplished over the past century,” said Michigan Historical Center Director Sandra Clark. “It’s exciting to see them taking such pride in their heritage.” The exhibit runs through Aug. 26, with special, Girl Scout-related events each weekend through the duration of the exhibit. March 17 will be Girl Scout Gallery Day, in which Girl Scouts will be stationed throughout the 20th-century museum galleries to give visitors a decade-by-decade look at Girl Scouting in Michigan History. March 24, children’s book author Janie Lynn Panagopoulos will share the story of Nellie Lytle, great-grandmother of Girl Scouts founder Juliette Gordon Low. The museum is open seven days a week. It is located inside the Michigan Library and Historical Center, 702 W. Kalamazoo St., Lansing. For more information, visit www.michigan.gov/museum or call 517-3733559. Grand Haven among best beaches on Earth It’s no secret to West Michigan residents that the beaches along Lake Michigan’s eastern shore are something to behold. But the gig is up. Travel and Leisure magazine named the Grand Haven beach one of the 16 “Best Secret Beaches on Earth” in the March 2012 issue. Joining the local secret beach were sites Delaware, Hawaii and California. Outside of the U.S., the list included beaches in Portugal, Brazil, Mexico, Australia and France. The summary of the beach at Grand Haven, by David A. Keeps, reads, “Trolley cars, a 2.5-mile harbor-front boardwalk and two 19th-century red lighthouses give a sweet, old-time feel to this Lake Michigan town. Boaters and fishermen flock here, and hikers like the short-but-strenuous climb to Rosy Mound that includes 1,000 feet of stairs up and down the sand dunes to the shore of Lake Michigan. There are warm shallows for swimming, and the soft sand of two public beaches squeaks when you walk on it. After sunset, the local restaurants, ice cream parlors, and shops come alive.” New bills require background checks of workers who care for elderly Gov. Rick Snyder Tuesday signed legislation ensuring thorough background checks of workers who care for the elderly. The bills, sponsored by State Sen. Mike Nofs, modify existing statute requiring certain individuals involved in elderly care to undergo a background check so the language meets FBI standards. Owners, operators, authorized representatives and certain other individuals involved in homes for the aged or adult foster care will be required to provide written consent for the Michigan State Police to conduct a criminal history check and a criminal records check through the FBI at the time of application, appointment or renewal. “We have a responsibility to ensure the best and safest care for Michigan’s elderly,” Snyder said. “A thorough background check of caregivers ensures only the most dedicated and scrupulous Michiganders work with our vulnerable citizens.” Visit www.legislature.mi.gov for more information on current bills. State prison guards protest changes State prison guards are upset over plans to end regular perimeter patrols outside 27 of Michigan’s 31 state prisons. Guards protested outside the corrections department’s Lansing headquarters Wednesday. The corrections department says changing to random patrols and adding cameras and motion sensors will save the state $13 million. Mel Grieshaber is the head of the Michigan Corrections Organization, the prison guards union. He says the decision to end perimeter patrols is just part of a pattern. “Right now we have a situation where the department [of Corrections[ is just unilaterally doing a lot of things and some of them we think are unsafe,” says Grieshaber. Grieshaber says regular perimeter patrols not only keep prisoners in, they also keep drugs and other contraband out of Michigan’s prisons. Need wedding invitations? Check out the large selection at Printing Plus 1351 N. M-43 Hwy., Hastings just north of city limits Leadership Barry County collecting garden tools Licensed / Insured / Local Call Scott 517-290-5556 • 877-448-1548 FREE Consultation & Estimates! ALSO EGRESS WINDOWS / MOLD REMEDIATION 77566275 77566404 INCOME TAX TIME IS HERE AGAIN! Newborn Babies K.A. Mueller Accounting 77566293 on March 2, 2012 at 7:54 p.m. to Keisha Jordan and Jason McDiarmid of Middleville. Weighing 7 lbs. 7 oz. and 21 inches long. ***** Molly Margaret McCaul, born at Sparrow Hospital on January 30, 2012 at 6:37 a.m. to Todd and Deb McCaul of Lake Odessa. Weighing 7 lbs. 4 ozs. and 20 inches long. Molly was welcomed home by siblings Morgan and Mason. Proud grandparents include Ben and Donna McCaul of Lake Odessa and Bill and Connie Zaidel of Grand Rapids. 221 South Jefferson, Hastings, MI Phone: (269) 945-3547 www.kamuelleraccounting.com ® The Marriage Licenses Patrick Royal Antolovich, Lake Odessa and Cortney Leigh Kilbourn, Delton. Ryan Michael Argo, Hastings and Kristin Lee Williams, Hastings. Robert John Ellis, Hickory Corners and Janet Lawave Ellis, Hickory Corners. Michael Thomas Erwin, Hastings and Melody Maud Rorabeck, Hastings. Daniel George Huey, Grandville and Kylee Ann Pawloski, Middleville. Timothy Allen Rowse, Hastings and Sheila Beth Gray, Olivet. • Professional, Economical & Personal TAX & Accounting Services 77566455 To The Community 07594804 Wyatt John, born at Pennock Hospital on Feb. 28, 2012 at 4:14 p.m. to Jim and Karen Bailey of Hastings. Weighing 9 lbs. 12 oz. and 22 inches long. ***** Asher James, born at Pennock Hospital on Feb. 29, 2012 at 11:29 a.m. to Ryan and Sarah Oosterhouse of Freeport. Weighing 7 lbs. 9 ozs. and 21 inches long. ***** Eliza Kay, born at Pennock Hospital on Feb. 27, 2012 at 3:03 p.m. to Amber Sules and Mike Fetterhoff of Nashville. Weighing 9 lbs. 4 ozs. and 22 1/2 inches long. ***** Lucas Scott, born at Pennock Hospital on Feb. 27, 2012 at 10:32 p.m. to Elizabeth Straley and Terry Prowoznik of Hastings. Weighing 6 lbs. 6 ozs. and 19 inches long. ***** Lydia Grace Lynn, born at Pennock Hospital on March 1, 2012 at 2:46 p.m. to Rachel and Bill Wilson III of Ionia. 17 inches long. ***** Braivon Jay, born at Pennock Hospital on March 1, 2012 at 9:22 a.m. to Hildie Adrianson of Hastings and Robert Stahlhood of Dowling. Weighing 7 lbs. 14 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Easton Landry, born at Pennock Hospital on March 2, 2012 at 1:33 a.m. to Brandon and Erin Carley of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 5 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Azariya Anna Lyn, born at Pennock Hospital Time to visit... We want to thank everyone in the Hastings area community for the overwhelming support following the loss of our son on January 26. Your flowers, cards, calls, prayers and expressions of sympathy in so many ways gave us faith and hope. We cannot find enough words to express our heartfelt appreciation for the outpouring of love and caring. God Bless this wonderful community. The family of Victor Braendle – Neil, Joan, Maria, Nelson and Nicholas 77564841 in Middleville will be at Above and Beyond Hair Salon, 3497 N. M-37 Highway, from 9 a.m. until noon. Sunday March 18, a collection box is at the new First Presbyterian Church at 405 N. M37 Highway, Hastings, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; and at Grove Street Café in Delton from 9 a.m. until noon. For more information about the community garden project, contact Emily Bond at 269945-3412 or by email, emily@choiceonemail.com; or Lori Jackson, 269-945-0526, or at ljackson@barrycf.org. 77566401 Members of the 2012 Leadership Barry County class are collecting new and used garden tools for community gardens in Delton, Hastings and Nashville. The class is collecting new or used tools in good condition, such as rakes, shovels, trowels and garden hoses. The first collection is Friday, March 16, at Barry County Lumber at 225 Industrial Park Drive in Hastings from 2 to 6 p.m. Saturday, March 17, drop boxes will be available from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Putnam District Library in Nashville, and the Upjohn House at Charlton Park. The drop-off location �Page 8 — Thursday, March 15, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of by Elaine Garlock Saturday, March 17, Sebewa Center United Methodist Church is having its monthly dinner with serving starting at 4:30 p.m. Next week the depot complex will feature a new theme, ‘Here Comes the Bride.’ The Freight House will be open Friday for people to bring in their items to exhibit – be it a bridal gown, accessories, groom’s suit and necktie, a flowergirl’s dress, or simply a dress that was worn by a member of a wedding party. Dates are March 24 and 25. The genealogy library will be open on the same dates. There is yet another week in March, but this is the last full weekend, so that date is a bit earlier. The Tri-River Museum group will meet Tuesday, March 20, in the Ada Museum at 10 a.m. Monday night’s storm passed us by. However, the warnings for tornados sounded ominous for those south and west of us. At times, the dark clouds were scudding swiftly to the northeast while patches of bright blue skies showed in the west and north. It gave one time to listen to the Hastings-Grand Rapids Christian basketball game and also keep track of the weather for more than an hour. Sorry, Saxons. Saturday’s meeting of the Ionia County Genealogy Society brought a group of mem- ber to hear Jayne Flanagan of WOodland give a presentation about Manna’s Market. This Woodland enterprise has a remarkable story about her and her husband pondering how to solve or alleviate some problems of poverty they witnessed. Knowing nothing about how to run a food pantry, they began one, nevertheless. They had remarkable success with the help and encouragement of others. They give much credit to prayer and inspiration and help from others, some of which came about by miraculous events. The numbers of families and individuals helped, meals provided are amazing and yet saddening because they indicate the degree of need in our community. Their building, the former Classic’s drug store, is well suited to serve the need. There is also a clothing bank and a referral service. There is a large volunteer staff. Nobody involved gets a salary or wage. The Ionia County Genealogy Society members had the opportunity to view many of the art entries left from the LOAHS art show two weeks earlier. Gayle Peacock was the registrar. The Gillilands and Garlocks provided refreshments. The library was a busy place for the next two hours since it was before the meeting. The First Families committee now meets at 10:30 a.m. each meeting date to save members a trip to Lake Odessa. Applications are in the works for the Sept. 1 deadline. Budget Public Hearing (Truth in Budgeting) Notice The Woodland Township Board will hold a public hearing on the proposed township budget for fiscal year 2012-2013 at the Woodland Township Hall on Thursday, March 22, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget will be a subject of this hearing. A copy of the budget is available for public inspection at the township offices. The Woodland Township Board will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting upon 7 days notice to the Woodland Township Board. Note: Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Woodland Township Board by writing or calling the following: Cheryl Allen, Clerk 156 S. Main Woodland, MI 48897 (269) 367-4915 77566300 TOWNSHIP OF PRAIRIEVILLE BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF PRAIRIEVILLE, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the following is a summary of Ordinance No. 142, which was adopted by the Prairieville Township Board at a special meeting held on March 7, 2012. AMENDMENT TO SECTION 6.6.B.5.r. This secSECTION I. tion amends Subsection 6 of Section 6.6.B.5.r of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to land gas recovery processing facilities so as to give the Township Planning Commission authority to grant a partial waiver reducing the dollar amount of the insurance requirement pertaining to such facilities. SECTION II. are severable. SEVERABILITY. The provisions of this Ordinance EFFECTIVE DATE AND REPEAL OF CONFLICTSECTION III. ING ORDINANCES. This Ordinance shall take effect eight (8) days following publication after adoption. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with this Ordinance are repealed. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the full text of this Ordinance has been posted in the Office of the Prairieville Township Clerk at the address set forth below and that a copy of the Ordinance may be purchased or inspected at the office of the Prairieville Township Clerk during regular business hours of regular working days following the date of this publication. PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP Jill Owens, Clerk 10115 S. Norris Road Delton, Michigan 49046 (269) 623-2664 77566433 EDWARD JONES Give your portfolio a ‘spring cleaning’ Springtime is almost here. If you’re like many people, the arrival of spring means it’s time to spruce up your home. But why stop there? This year, consider applying some of those same spring-cleaning techniques to your investment portfolio. Here are some ideas you may want to put to work: • Get rid of clutter. You probably don’t have to look too far around your home to find things that are broken or simply no longer useful to you. If you poke around your portfolio, you might make similar discoveries: an investment that has chronically underperformed, duplicates another investment or met your needs in the past but is less relevant to your current situation and goals. Once you identify these types of investments, you may decide to sell them and use the proceeds to take advantage of opportunities that may prove more valuable to you. • Consolidate. Over the years, you may have accumulated multiple versions of common household items — brooms, mops, hammers — which pop up mysteriously in various parts of your home. You might find it more efficient, and even less expensive, if you consolidated all these things in one centralized location. As an investor, you also might find that consolidation can offer you some benefits. Do you have one Individual Retirement Account (IRA) with one financial services provider and a second IRA with another? Do you have a couple of old 401(k) accounts with former employers? And have you scattered investments here, there and everywhere? By consolidating all these accounts in one place, you can cut down on paperwork, reduce fees and, most importantly, unite your investment dollars so that it’s easier for you to see what you have and then follow a single, coherent investment strategy. • Prepare for turbulent weather. As you know, springtime can bring heavy rains, hail, strong winds and other threats to your home. As part of your overall spring cleaning, you may want to check the condition of your roof, clear branches away from your house, clean LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Gloria A. Mann, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 26, 2005, and recorded on September 12, 2005 in instrument 1152639, and assigned by said Mortgagee to The Bank of New York Mellon f/k/a The Bank of New York as successor to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as trustee for the benefit of the Certificateholders of Popular ABS, Inc. Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates Series 2005-D as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Five Thousand Eight Hundred Eighty-Nine and 59/100 Dollars ($135,889.59), including interest at 7.65% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on April 12, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the West 1/4 post of section 16, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, Hastings Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence South 89 degrees 45 minutes 46 seconds East 1321.46 feet along the East-West 1/4 line of said section 16 to the Northwest corner of the East 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4 of said section 16 and the Place of Beginning; thence South 89 degrees 45 minutes 46 seconds East along said 1/4 line, 250.40 feet; thence South 14 degrees 52 minutes 57 seconds West 327.22 feet to the centerline of Mill Road; thence North 46 degrees 53 minutes 57 seconds West 228.20 feet along said centerline; thence North 00 degrees 05 minutes 43 seconds East along the West line of said East 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4, 161.35 feet to the Place of Beginning. Subject to an easement for public Highway Purposes over the Southwesterly 33 feet thereof For Mill Road. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 15, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #289357F03 77566484 (03-15)(04-05) your gutters and downspouts, and take other steps to protect your property from the ravages of Mother Nature. And just as you need to safeguard your home, you’ll want to protect the lifestyles of those who live in that home — namely, your family. You can help accomplish this by reviewing your life and disability insurance to make sure it’s still sufficient for your needs. • Get professional help. You may find that you can’t do all your spring cleaning by yourself. For example, if your carpets and rugs are heavily soiled, you may need to call in a professional cleaner. Or if your tree branches have grown out of control, you might need to bring in a tree trimmer. Similarly, when you decide to “tidy up” your portfolio, you’ll need some assistance from a financial professional — someone who can study your current mix of investments and recommend changes, as needed, to help ensure your holdings are suitable for your risk tolerance, time horizon and short- and long-term goals. Spring cleaning can reinvigorate your home and your overall outlook. And by tidying up your investment portfolio, you can help gain some of that same optimism — for your future. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 30.10 +.02 AT&T 31.63 +.90 BP PLC 47.33 +1.10 CMS Energy Corp 22.14 +.73 Coca-Cola Co 70.25 +1.49 Eaton 50.23 +1.53 Family Dollar Stores 57.47 +2.05 Fifth Third Bancorp 14.16 +1.22 Flowserve CP 117.32 +5.01 Ford Motor Co. 12.70 +.61 General Mills 38.59 +.23 General Motors 26.07 +1.49 Intel Corp. 27.49 +.88 Kellogg Co. 52.90 +1.06 McDonald’s Corp 96.78 -3.11 Pfizer Inc. 22.01 +.76 Ralcorp 74.27 +.85 Sears Holding 79.94 +6.52 Spartan Motors 5.66 +.34 Spartan Stores 18.50 +.82 Stryker 53.33 +1.30 TCF Financial 11.53 +1.24 Walmart Stores 61.00 +2.03 Gold $1,671.02 -3.46 Silver $33.26 +.33 Dow Jones Average 13,177 +418 Volume on NYSE 847M +26M Fracking waste found to cause Ohio earthquakes by Dr. E. Kirsten Peters The solid earth is riddled with faults. Each fault is a plane of weakness in the rocks that make up the outer rind of the Earth. Some of those faults have been mapped by geologists, but others are unknown to even the most advanced science we have today. And now, courtesy of officials in Ohio, at least one state of the union is going to have new regulations that could hold energy companies to account for some “side effects” caused by previously unknown faults. The tale hinges on fracking, the nickname given to injecting water, sand and chemicals at high pressure into the Earth to break up shale formations so that the natural gas inside them flows into wells. Fracking is an increasingly important part of how we are drilling for domestic energy resources. It’s controversial, with environmentalists concerned about unintended impacts of chemicals involved, while others support the economic opportunities the process yields. One of the features of fracking is that energy companies that use the technique often have significant quantities of wastewater they need to dispose of. In Ohio, wastewater was injected down deep wells near the city of Youngstown. In March of last year an energy company was given the go-ahead by the state to increase the pressure of wastewater injections. Then, from March to December of 2011, a dozen small earthquakes were recorded in the area. The Youngstown vicinity isn’t known for seismic activity, so the quakes got people’s attention. Ohio’s Department of Natural Resources set out to study the small quakes. As newspapers have reported, Ohio’s DNR has now issued a finding that wastewater injection related to fracking probably caused the quakes. It wasn’t the fracking itself they say caused the earthquakes, but the injection of wastewater into deep disposal wells in the Youngstown area. State officials found that fluids from disposal wells intersected a previously unknown fault. That fault was near the state of stress that could make it move, and the fluid promoted movement, creating the earthquakes. State officials have now issued tough new regulations about how energy companies can dispose of the briny wastewater fracking often produces. Rules prohibit wells in certain types of rock formations. They also require companies to report much more geologic data before they drill in Ohio. A lot is at stake with fracking and attempts to regulate it. Many Americans say they support efforts to increase our energy independence, and fracking does that. At the same time, environmental concern over fracking is growing, with the induction of earthquakes only the latest in a list of what alarms some citizens about the practice. Reuters reports that Ohio has 200 deep wells within its borders, with 177 of them related to the oil and gas industry. Injecting fluids down wells isn’t a new feature of life in the Buckeye State. Since 1983 more than 200 million barrels of fluids from oil fields — some of it from out of state — has been disposed of within Ohio. At the national level, more than 2 billion gallons of waste is disposed of each day. Those facts suggests that a great deal of fluids can be injected in at least many wells without major problems. But the matter has become a political hot-button in Ohio. National “Super PAC” groups have spent millions of dollars in ads in Ohio relating to fracking, according to Reuters. Political discussion is how we citizens of a democracy can formulate policy via our elected leaders. But the acrimony in today’s politics sometimes gets in the way of levelheaded discussion of our energy options. It’s a simple fact that if we don’t produce more oil and natural gas here at home, we are likely to use more from abroad. The question is how we weigh that against understandable environmental concerns. There are no perfect solutions to our energy needs. Tradeoffs in policies are the only way forward to help our energy-hungry society meet its short- and long-term demands. This rockhead isn’t sure that money from Super Pacs — on either side of the fracking issue — helps us find our way to the best policies we can craft. Dr. E. Kirsten Peters, a native of the rural Northwest, was trained as a geologist at Princeton and Harvard universities. Follow her online at rockdoc.wsu.edu and on Twitter @RockDocWSU. This column is a service of the College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences at Washington State University. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 15, 2012 — Page 9 How a double deserter was found and court martialed The following story was published in the Feb. 16, 1908, Hastings Banner. ***** A Civil War veteran of this city who does not desire publicity and so withholds his name, furnishes the Banner the following account of the fate that overtook a man who first deserted from the Rebel army, then joined the boys in blue, and later deserted the Union forces while on duty as a picket. This thrilling story as given by our friend is as follows: After the second battle of Corinth, which took place Oct. 1 and 2, 1862, our regiment and a part of the 5th Ohio Cavalry was sent six miles south of Corinth on the line of the Mobile and Ohio Railroad as an outpost for Cornith and also to guard the railroad against the roving bands of bushwhackers that infested that country at that time. We located our camp in an open field near a heavy body of timber. The men were set at work building barracks each large enough to hold a 100 men, although we only had about 80 men in a company at that time. After our barracks were completed, we were ordered to build a stockade around our camp of about three acres, which was done by digging a trench two feet deep and then cutting logs from timbers nearby. They were cut about 10 feet long and one end made sharp and then they were set in this trench close together, with the sharp end up, and every four feet was a port hole about as high as a man’s shoulder and just large enough to put our guns through. So we had a very good protection from any band of Rebels that might try to take us by surprise. Everything passed off very quietly during the winter, but when the warm weather came on, the bushwhackers, like all other reptiles, began to thaw out, and we had plenty of work for the next few months. Our regiment furnished all the men for the camp guard, but the Ohio cavalry did all the picket duty. They were placed out from one to two miles from camp on all the roads that the Johnnies could come in on. Sometime in May of 1863, a Johnny came into our camp claiming to be a deserter from Price’s army. He said he had all the fighting he wanted for Jeff Davis and now he wanted to put in the rest of the war in fighting for the stars and stripes. He was given his choice between our regiment and the cavalry, and since all the Southern men are in the habit of riding, he chose the cavalry. He gave his name as Johnson and was enrolled in the cav- alry and given a horse and cavalry outfit. Our officers watched him pretty close for a while, but saw nothing to arouse their suspicions. Soon they became convinced that he was a true Union man and he was therefore placed on picket with the rest of the boys. All went well for a while, but one day Johnson, with some others, were sent to one of the farthest outposts. It came Johnson’s turn to stand on post at 10 o’clock at night, and when the next guard went out to relieve him, at midnight, he found the picket post, but no Johnson. He had vanished with Uncle Sam’s horse, saddle, bridle and gun, and we supposed that was the last we would ever hear of him. A short time after Johnson deserted us, the bushwhackers became pretty troublesome, and had picked up some of our boys who had been outside of the guard line to trade tobacco and coffee with the citizens for milk and chickens. One day, a citizen came into camp and told us there was a band of bushwhackers down on the river bottom about 30 miles south of us and offered to guide us to the place. Our officers held a short council over the matter and finally decided to send a part of our regiment and some of the cavalry and try and capture them. The drum beat the call for dress parade, and we were soon in line and waiting for orders. The colonel stated the object of the raid and selected five companies of our regiment and two of the cavalry and placed us under command of our lieutenant colonel. Each man was ordered to have two days’ rations in his haversack and 40 rounds of ammunition and be ready to leave camp at 9 o’clock that evening since we did not wish to start out until the citizens had gone to bed and so prevent their carrying the news ahead of us. We left camp at just 9 o’clock and were expected to reach their camp about daylight and take them by surprise, we would have done, had it not been for a little accident that happened just as we came in sight of their campfire and were dividing our forces to surround them. But owing to the excitement of darkness, one of our boys made a misstep and fell down and fired his gun, and that gave them the alarm. We made a rush for their camp and succeeded in getting a few of them before they could get the saddles on their horses. We gave chase to the others, but they knew the country better than we did and soon got out of sight. One squad of our boys saw a house over on a cross road, and thought they would go over and investigate a little. Just before reaching the house, they came to an old log stable where they found a horse with saddle and bridle on, and since the horse was panting quite hard, we thought the rider must be nearby, so we went in the house and found two women fixing up some medicine for a sick man who was in another room in bed. One of our boys said he had studied medicine some before he went in the army and perhaps he could assist them, but they refused all offers of assistance, and the doctor’s orders were very strict that he should not be disturbed since a little excitement might prove fatal to him. But our medical student decided to make an examination of the patient for himself. So he went to the bed and requested the patient to run out his tongue, which he did, as a spasm of pain passed over his face. We found his tongue was not split, so decided that he was a human being. Then we pulled the bed clothes down to feel of his pulse and found that he was using a Rebel uniform for a nightshirt, and to still further guard against taking cold, he was wearing a pair of cavalry boots with spurs on. We ministered one dose of our medicine and it put him on his feet very quickly, and by the time we had finished searching the house, he was able to walk back to camp with us. In a few hours, our boys had all came back to the camp where we had left the prisoners under guard. It was now about 10 a.m. and we were all tired and hungry for we had no rest since 9 o’clock the night before and had eaten only a lunch that we carried in our haversacks as we marched along. So we decided to get some breakfast and take a little rest. After breakfast, we thought we would look over our prisoners and judge of our surprise to find our old friend Johnson, the double deserter, among them; also Uncle Sam’s horse, saddle, bridle and gun. After breakfast, we started back to our camp where we arrived at about 8 p.m. as tired a lot of boys as you would wish to look at. We had marched about 70 miles in 23 hours. Our prisoners were kept under guard until morning and then sent on to headquarters at Corinth, six miles distant. They were all treated as prisoners of war except Johnson. He had committed three crimes, any one of which was punishable by death. He deserted our army, acted as a Rebel spy, and deserted his post while on picket. So of course, his doom was sealed the moment he fell into our hands. He was tried by court martial for treason and desertion, was found guilty, and sentenced to be shot. The day set for the execution was a bright, pleasant day, strangely in contrast with the gloomy work we had before us. All of our boys who wished to witness the execution were given permission to do so. We arrived at headquarters just before the hour set for the execution. The troops were marched out in an open field and formed a hollow square all facing inward. Near one side of the square was a newly made grave and a rough pine box that was to serve as a coffin. About 10 a.m. the prisoner was brought in under guard and was marched around the inside of the square behind the fife and drum which were playing the dead march. He was marched around this square and then brought up to the grave and seated on the coffin, and nearly every step he took in going Call 945-9554 any time for Hastings Banner classified ads around the ring he was crying and begging for his life and continued to beg for it with his last breath. After seating him on the coffin they put a bandage over his eyes and a small piece of white paper was pinned on his coat over his heart, and 12 picked marksmen were marched in with loaded rifles. But one of the guns was loaded with a blank cartridge and no one ever knew who had the blank, so none of the 12 were sure that he had a loaded gun. When all was ready, the 12 executioners were marched up in front and about 20 paces from the prisoner. They were ordered to take aim and fire at the white patch over the heart, when the signal was given, which was the cap of the drum. Johnson was quiet while they put the band- age over his eyes, and then he commenced again to cry for mercy. His last works words were, “O Spare my life, for God’s sake, spare.” But he never finished the sentence, for just then the signal was given and 12 rifles cracked and the double deserter fell back on his coffin a corpse. Our boys returned to our camp a sad lot of boys. While we felt that according to all military laws he had received his just dues, one could not help feeling sad to see a fellow being shot down with no chance to defend himself. But it was a lesson we never forgot; and I think if any of our boys ever thought of deserting, the death of Johnson had a salutary affect on them. NOTICE OF LETTING OF DRAIN CONTRACT AND DAY OF REVIEW OF APPORTIONMENTS FOR THE ALGONQUIN LAKE DAM IMPROVEMENTS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, That I, Russ Yarger, County Drain Commissioner of the County of Barry, State of Michigan, at the office of the Barry County Drain Commissioner, 220 W. State St., Hastings, Michigan, will receive sealed bids until 10:00 a.m., local time on Wednesday, April 4, 2012, when bids will be publicly opened and read aloud for the improvements of a certain Dam known and designated as “Algonquin Lake Dam” located and established in the Township of Rutland, in said County. In improvements of said Dam, the following approximate quantities and type of pipe, along with appurtenances will be required and contracts let for same: Estimated Quanity Unit Description DAM IMPROVEMENTS 1 L.S. Remove Ex. Outlet Control Structure 60 Lin. Ft. Remove Ex. 36” SLCPP 25 Lin Ft. Remove Ex. 4’ x 12’ Concrete Box culvert 60 Lin. Ft. 36” RCP 25 Lin. Ft. 6’ x 12’ Precast Concrete Box culvert 190 Lin. Ft. Sheet Piling 1 L.S. Outlet Control Structure, complete 1 L.S. Precast Concrete Shed structure 220 Sq. Yd. Remove and Replace Concrete Pavement 60 Sq. Yd. Remove and Replace Bituminous Pavement Restoration 30 Sq. Yd. Plain Riprap 50 Lin. Ft. Remove and Replace Chain Link Fence BOAT RAMP IMPROVEMENTS 25 Sq. Yd. 8 Lin. Ft. 25 Lin Ft. 1 L.S. 20 Lin Ft. 48 Lin. Ft. 12 Cu. Yd. 1 L.S. Remove Existing Boat Launch Remove Ex. Guard Rail Remove Concrete Curb Remove Ex. Access Gate Concrete Curb 4’ x 14’ Precast Concrete Slabs MDOT Type 4AA Coarse Aggregate Access Gate MISCELLANEOUS 1 1 1 1 Erosion Control Measures Traffic Control Seeding Cleanup and Restoration L.S. L.S. L.S. L.S. The bidding documents required for bidding purposes may be obtained from Russ Yarger, the Barry County Drain Commissioner, 220 W. State St., Hastings, Michigan 49058, beginning Tuesday March 20th, 2012. NOTE TO CONTRACTORS A pre-bid meeting will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, the 28th day of March, 2012 at the Barry County Drain Commissioner’s Office, 220 W. State St., Hastings, Michigan 49058. The OWNER and ENGINEER will be present to discuss the project. Prospective bidders are encouraged to attend and participate in the meeting. All bidders must sign in by name of attendee and business represented. Contracts will be made with the lowest responsible bidder giving adequate security for the performance of the work, in the sum as specified in the bidding documents, reserving to myself the right to reject any and all bids, and to adjourn such letting to such time and place as I shall publicly announce. The date for the completion of such contract and the terms of payment are contained in the contract specifications. Any responsible person desiring to bid on the above-mentioned work will be required to deposit Bid Surety in the amount specified in the bidding documents as a guarantee that they will enter into contract and furnish the required bond as prescribed by the contract specifications and by applicable law. All bids shall remain open for one hundred twenty (120) days after the day of the bid opening, but I reserve the right at my sole discretion to release any bid and bid security before that date. NOTICE IS FURTHER HEREBY GIVEN, that on the 13th day of April, 2012, at the office of the Barry County Drain Commissioner, 220 W. State St., Hastings, Michigan 49058, or at such other time and place thereafter, to which I, the County Drain Commissioner aforesaid, may adjourn the same, the apportionment for benefits and the lands comprised within the “Algonquin Lake Dam District”, and the apportionments thereof will be subject to review for one day, from Eight o’clock in the forenoon until Five o’clock in the afternoon. At the meeting to review the apportionment of benefits, the Drain Commissioner will have available to review the tentative apportionments against the parcels and municipalities within the Algonquin Lake Dam District. The computation of costs of the construction of the Algonquin Lake Dam District will also be open for public inspection by any parties interested. The drain assessments against land in the Algonquin Lake Dam District will be collected in the same manner as property taxes. If the drain assessments against land are collected by installment, the landowner may pay the assessments in full with any interest to date at any time and thereby avoid further interest charges. Please contact the Office of the Barry County Drain Commissioner with any questions about payments of drain assessments. Pursuant to Section 155 of the Michigan Drain Code, any owner of land within the drainage district or any city, village, township, district or county feeling aggrieved by the apportionment of benefits made by the drain commissioner, may appeal the apportionment within ten (10) days after the day of review of apportionment by making an application to the Barry County Probate Court for the appointment of a Board of Review. FARM AUCTION City of Hastings To Benefit Kalamazoo County 4-H’ers • Fair Barn Rent Position Available: Accounts Receivable The following is a condensed description of the several tracts or parcels of land constituting the Algonquin Lake Dam District located in the Township of Rutland, County of Barry, State of Michigan and described as follows: This position serves the public and City staff by receiving and processing data from various sources to create and distribute invoices for utility services. The position requires analytical skills that enable the incumbent to consider conditions and information; prepare and evaluate courses of action; implement problem solving strategies; and monitor and report results. Superior computer skills, ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing, excellent interpersonal skills, high school graduate, and prior office experience are expected. Specific experience with computerized accounts receivable systems and other general accounting functions is very strongly preferred. Additional relevant education, such as an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in accounting, will be considered a significant plus This is a full-time position with a standard City of Hastings benefit package. An application for employment may be obtained at City Hall, 201 E. State St., Hastings, Michigan 49058, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday or by telephone request to Gina Maurer, Deputy Clerk, at 269.945.2468. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Review of applications will begin on March 21, 2012. Rutland Township, T3N R9W: Section 1 - All of the Southwest 1/4 except the Northeast 1/2 of the Northeast 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 and the Southwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 Section 2 -The South 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4, the Southwest 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4, all of the Southwest 1/4 except for the Southwest 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4, and all of the Southeast 1/4. Section 3 -The Southeast 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4. Section 12 -The north 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 and the Northwest 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4. NOW, THEREFORE, All unknown and non-resident persons, owners and persons interested in the above-described lands, and you: Barry County Clerk; Rutland Township Supervisor; Barry County Road Commissioner; are hereby notified that at the time and place aforesaid, or at such other time and place thereafter to which said letting may be adjourned, I shall proceed to receive bids for the construction of said “Algonquin Lake Dam District” in the manner hereinbefore stated; and, also, that at such time and place as stated above from eight o’clock in the forenoon until five o’clock in the afternoon, the apportionment for benefits and the lands comprised within the Algonquin Lake Dam District will be subject to review. AND YOU AND EACH OF YOU, Owners and persons interested in the aforesaid lands, are hereby cited to appear at the time and place of such reviewing of apportionments as aforesaid, and be heard with respect to such special assessments and your interests in relation thereto, if you so desire. Persons with disabilities needing accommodations for effective participation should contact Russ Yarger, the Barry County Drain Commissioner, at (269) 945-1385, or through the Michigan Relay Center at (800) 649-3777 (TDD) before each meeting to require mobility, visual, hearing or other assistance. This review of apportionments is consistent with Section 154 of the Michigan Drain Code of 1956, as amended. SAT., MARCH 17, 2012 AT 10AM LOCATED: BOB GIBSON’S FARM, 16187 EAST “S” AVE. FULTON, MI 49052 • 269-720-4323* OR PAUL HARRISON: 269-420-6153* 75% OF SALE PROCEEDS TO SELLER • 25% TO FUND 4-H’ERS BARN EXPENSE AT FAIR • 100% DONATIONS WELCOME EQUIPMENT: Ford straight truck w/dump; cultimulcher, Brillion used; Massey Ferguson 124 baler; Krause 30' disk used; feed wagon; 285 White field cultivator; antique grain drill w/wooden spokes; 1-row potato planter; JD rolling basket 32', 2 yrs. old; Farmall Cub tractor; (1) 1000 gal. poly tanks; tractor tires, ATV tires new, floater tires; more equipment being added daily. ANIMALS: Finished lamb; sev. finished hogs; Decan calves; milking goat. SEED CORN: Channel, Pioneer, Select, Agri-Gold. SEED BEANS: Channel ALFALFA SEED: 3 bags. ANIMAL FEED RELATED Round bales of straw; square bales of hay; hog huts; hog feeders; grain bins, (2) 5000 bu. w/full floor fan; (1) 3500 w/full floor Fan9must; take-down bins; animal feed from Voyces. LOTS OF MISC.: Saddles, horse equipment; firewood; fishing trip to South Haven; (1) 10 yard dumpster dump charges; irrigation fittings; gift certificates for many items; more small items arriving daily. VENDORS TABLES • CONCESSIONS TAKING CONSIGNMENTS NOW 77566461 *CALL FOR DETAILS. 77566447 Thomas Emery City Clerk/Treasurer Russ Yarger Barry County Drain Commissioner 77566463 �Page 10 — Thursday, March 15, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Pheasant cooperative meeting LEGAL planned in Dowling next week NOTICES A meeting to establish Barry County’s first pheasant cooperative is scheduled for Thursday, March 22, at 7 p.m. at the Baltimore Township Hall, 3100 E. Dowling Road. Landowners interested in starting or joining a pheasant cooperative in Barry County are encouraged to attend. Speakers will introduce the Michigan Pheasant Restoration Initiative, explain the purpose of pheasant cooperatives, discuss land management for pheasants and help formalize the county’s first pheasant cooperative, made up of neighbors in the Baltimore Township area. Those interested in forming a cooperative in their neighborhood will get the information and tools they need at the session. The Michigan Pheasant Restoration Initiative seeks to restore pheasant habitat in locations around the state that have the potential to support pheasant populations on a large landscape area. The MPRI program’s main goal is to encourage private landowners to work together to improve or restore grassland, food plots and nesting habitat within their communities. Through the development of pheasant cooperatives, the program hopes to create 10,000-acre habitat areas within which are provided 1,200 to 2,000 acres of pheasant habitat. These lands may be public or private, though most of the effort will focus on private property. Officials hope to establish 10 of these project areas in Michigan by 2013, said Joanne Barnard, executive director of the Barry Conservation District. Pheasant cooperatives are, at their heart, groups of neighbors who share the same goal of improving wildlife habitat, whether for hunting or wildlife viewing purposes. “Beginning with a core group of interested people, a cooperative can establish goals, such as neighborhood outreach to educate other landowners, assessing and improving habitat on their own lands and conducting wildlife surveys to understand the habitat value of the existing landscape,” said Barnard. “Cooperative meetings can be as formal or informal as organizers would like.” Conservation district staff will work with organizers of the pheasant cooperatives to help plan get-togethers and events to recruit members and improve habitat, she added. Local Pheasants Forever chapter members, local biologists and conservation district staff can provide assistance to cooperatives in evaluating habitat needs, making habitat recommendations and steering landowners toward federal, state and private organizations that can help fund or implement habitat projects. The cooperative being formed in the Baltimore Township area will be made up of landowners in and around the township who are managing wildlife habitat or are interested in beginning to do so. “The cooperative has not established a specific geographic boundary, so anyone in the general vicinity is invited to be a part of the group,” Barnard said. “Landowners need not be pheasant hunters to get involved. The grasslands, food sources and nesting habitats used by pheasants is equally attractive to other game and non-game birds and animals and will enhance any landscape’s potential for wildlife viewing or hunting.” For more information about the pheasant cooperative meeting March 22 or the Michigan Pheasant Restoration Initiative, call Barnard, 269-948-8056 or email joanne.barnard@mi.nacdnet.net. Read The BANNER every week! Copies conveniently available on newsstands throughout the Barry County area. CITY OF HASTINGS PUBLIC NOTICE ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 483 The undersigned, being the duly qualified and acting Clerk of the City of Hastings, Michigan, does hereby certify that Ordinance No. 483 TO ADD DIVISION 2 ENTITLED “HANDICAP ACCESS RAMPS” TO ARTICLE I OF CHAPTER 18 OF THE HASTINGS CITY CODE, AS AMENDED, ESTABLISHING REGULATIONS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION AND PLACEMENT OF HANDICAP ACCESS RAMPS FOR USE BY INDIVIDUALS WITH PHYSICAL DISABILITIES, AND RELATED USES AND ACTIVITIES. was adopted by the City Council of the City of Hastings at a regular meeting on the 12th of March 2012. A complete copy of this Ordinance is available for review at the office of the City Clerk at City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM until 5:00 PM. Thomas E. Emery City Clerk 77566470 TOWNSHIP OF HOPE Notice of Budget Public Hearing The Hope Township Board will hold a public hearing on the proposed township budget for fiscal year 2012-13 at 5463 South M-43 Hwy., Hastings, MI, on Monday, March 26, 2012, at 6:30 p.m., the regular Board meeting to follow. THE PROPERTY TAX MILLAGE RATE PROPOSED TO BE LEVIED TO SUPPORT THE PROPOSED BUDGET WILL BE A SUBJECT OF THIS HEARING. A copy of the budget is available for public inspection at the Township Hall. This notice is posted in compliance with PA267 of 1976 as amended (Open Meetings Act), MCLA 41.72a (2) (3) and the Americans with Disabilities Act. (ADA) The Hope Township Board will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting upon five days notice to the Hope Township Board. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Hope Township Board by writing or calling the following. Deborah Jackson Hope Township Clerk 5463 S M-43 Hwy. Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 948-2464 77566297 City of Hastings PUBLIC NOTICE Noxious Weeds and Vegetation Notice is hereby given that noxious weeds and vegetation as defined by Section 38-100 to Section 38-106, Division 4, Article II, Chapter 38 of the City of Hastings Code of Ordinances, as amended, not cut during the growing season of April 15, 2012 to October 15, 2012 may be cut by the City of Hastings or its designated representative, and the owner of the property shall be charged with the cost thereof. Noxious weeds and grasses more than eight (8) inches in height, dead bushes, and bushes infested with dangerous insects and infectious diseases must be cut and removed from the property. Any owner who refuses to destroy and remove such material may be subject to a Civil Infraction and fine, and the City or its designated representative may enter upon the land as many times as necessary, and destroy and remove such material and charge the cost to the property owner. Any expense incurred by the City shall be reimbursed by the owner of the land. Unrecovered costs shall be levied as a lien on the property and shall be collected against the property in the same manner as general taxes. The City, through its Code Enforcement Officer, shall have the right to enter upon such lands for the purpose of cutting down, destroying, or removing noxious weeds or vegetation and shall not be liable in any action of trespass. Thomas E. Emery City Clerk 77566450 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate Estate of Angela Frances Holm-Johnson. Date of birth: 06/18/1942. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Angela Frances Holm-Johnson, who lived at 13700 Lockshore Road, Delton, Michigan died 01/03/2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Brenda Louise Browne, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West State Street, Hastings, and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. C. Marcel Stoetzel, III (P61912) 207 East Mill Street Hastings, Michigan 49058 (269) 948-8321 Brenda Louise Browne 13700 Lockshore Road Delton, Michigan 49046 77566329 (269) 623-2633 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 11-25999-DE Estate of Charlotte E. Collier, Deceased. Date of Birth: 08/27/1921. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Charlotte E. Collier, who lived at Woodlawn Meadows, 1821 N. East St., Hastings, Michigan died 10/11/2011. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Walfrid Hakala, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court St., Suite 302, Hastings, MI 49058, and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: March 8, 2012 James L. Banks (P10405) Attorney at Law 1036 Jordan Lake Street P.O. Box 592 Lake Odessa, MI 48849 616/374-0844 Walfrid Hakala 13943 Jackson Rd. Lake Odessa, MI 48849 77566426 (616) 374-7580 Case No. 10-274-CH CIRCUIT COURT SALE In pursuance and by virtue of a Judgment of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on September 16, 2011, U.S. Bank National Association ND in a certain cause therein pending, wherein U.S. Bank National Association ND was the Plaintiff and Robert J. Stauffer and Shannon J. Stauffer, husband and wife were the Defendants. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that I shall sell at public auction to the highest bidder, at public venue, at the at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI, that being the place of holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, on the 5th day of April, A.D., 2012, at 1:00:00 PM o’clock in the forenoon, Eastern Standard Time, the following described property, towit: All certain piece or parcel of land situated in the Village of Middleville, County of Barry and State of Michigan, described as follows: Situated in the Village of Middleville, County of Barry and State of Michigan: Lots 6, 7 and 8 of Block 59 of the Village of Middleville, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats on Page 27, City of Middleville, County of Barry, Michigan as recorded in Liber 1, Page 27 of Plats, Barry County Records and that parcel of land commencing at the Northwest corner of Lot 8, Block 59 in the plat of Village of Middleville, thence South 65.98 feet along the West line of said Lot 8; thence West 5.0 feet along the North line of Lot 11, Block 59; thence North 65.98 feet parallel to the West line of Lot 8; thence East 5 feet to the point of beginning. Commonly known as: 302 Cherry Street This property may be redeemed during the six months following the sale. Dated: February 16, 2012 Mark Sheldon Deputy Sheriff WELTMAN, WEINBERG & REIS CO., L.P.A. Stuart A. Best (P-40744) Attorney for Plaintiff 2155 Butterfield Drive Suite 200-S Troy, MI 48084/WWR#10032301 (02-16)(03-29) 77565846 NOTICE OF JUDICIAL FORECLOSURE SALE Andrew J. Thomas TROTT & TROTT, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy., Ste. 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE IF YOU ARE A BORROWER ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTENTION PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the circuit court at the request of the plaintiff. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest, as determined by the court. Barry County Circuit Court Case No. 10-618-CH NOTICE OF JUDICIAL SALE JUDICIAL SALE IN PURSUANCE and by virtue of a Judgment of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on the12th day of January, 2012, in a certain cause therein pending, wherein HSBC Mortgage Services, Inc., was the Plaintiff and Jeff Schantz was the defendant. The aforementioned judgment established a debt owing to plaintiff in the amount of $127,979.10, plus post-judgment interest at an annual rate of 8.125 % and other amounts recoverable pursuant to said judgment. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that in order to satisfy said judgment, in whole or in part, the property described below shall be sold at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, located at 220 W. State St., Hastings, Michigan (that being the building in which the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held) on Thursday the 29th of March, 2012 at 1 pm, local time. On said day at said time, the following described property located in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, shall be sold: The West 1/2 of Lots 1302 and 1303 of the City, Formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof. Tax Parcel ID: 08-55-201447-00 More commonly known as: 227 W South Street REDEMPTION PERIOD IS SIX MONTHS. Dated: February 9, 2012 Mark Sheldon Deputy Sheriff For more information please call 248-6422515. Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys for Plaintiff 31440 Northwestern Hwy., Ste. 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 File No. 329389L02 (02-09)(03-22) BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY by Gerald Stein Title: Planning the Play of a Bridge Hand Authors: Barbara Seagram and David Bird Publisher: Master Point Press Toronto, Canada (2009) This week’s column will be devoted to reviewing a recent bridge book I had the good fortune to read and study during the last few weeks. Planning the Play of a Bridge Hand by well-known bridge teachers and writers, Barbara Seagram of Canada and David Bird of the United Kingdom really resonates with the beginning bridge player but also speaks loudly to the intermediate bridge player as well. Too often beginning bridge players hear these words from their bridge instructors: “Be sure to make a plan.” Good enough advice, but mostly this well-intended admonition falls on deaf ears, at least at the beginning of their bridge journey. Learning all that is expected of them in a few short weeks, learning how to make a plan falls somewhere near the bottom of the information pile. Seagram and Bird address this common weakness of many bridge players, and together they offer a plan on how to plan a bridge hand. With straightforward prose with easy-tounderstand bridge hands, both bridge authors guide the reader through 17 short chapters in 231 pages. In the Introduction, the authors claim the following: “One note: bidding can be complicated, but the focus of this book is on card-play. We have therefore elected to use only a few simple conventions in our example auctions, including old-fashioned Blackwood (not Roman Keycard), so as not to distract readers.” The first chapter explains their methodology of teaching bridge players how to make a plan. Of course, everyone has already heard that old adage to stop and look at the hand your partner has presented to you as dummy. The fact that Seagram and Bird have written this book is testimony to the fact that few beginners actually take the time to make a plan. Their eyes simply glass over, and they start to take tricks, hoping that somehow the technique will work and that they will come up with the needed number of tricks to make their contract. This can work, but usually there is a disaster, and the discussion that follows later is usually not a pretty thing to hear. “Why did you…” We have all heard that much too often. Authors Seagram and Bird break the technique down into two parts: the suit contract and the no trump contract. It sounds surprisingly simple, and the good news is that it is simple to hear, but not so simple to put into action. Here is what they say to do with a suit contract: begin counting the number of losing tricks that you have even before you ever take trick one. Stop and count the number of losers in a suit contract. If your contract is four hearts, and by counting the number of losers first, you may have discovered early enough that you have four losers. That is one too many. Your plan, then, for a trump suit is to make one or more of your losers go away. The ways and means of making those tricks go away is the gist of this book, and each chapter offers ways to make those losers disappear. You will make your contracts and smile more. The second part of the Seagram-Bird approach in this book is to look at no trump contracts, sometimes the more difficult of challenges for beginner and intermediate bridge players. In this approach, instead of counting the losers as in a trump suit, you merely make your plan by counting the number of winners in your hand and in your partner’s hand. This allows you to determine how many tricks that you have and how many tricks that you need. It is the opposite approach of the trump suit approach, and subsequent chapters offer ways for the reader to gain extra tricks in no trump contracts. Two ways of making a plan, one for suit contracts and one for no trump contracts, take a no-nonsense approach to making and playing better bridge. Short chapters of six to seven pages, practice quizzes at the ends of each chapter, and detailed answers on the quiz problems are all benefits of this must-read bridge book. To use Barbara Seagram and David Bird’s approach as demonstrated in this little bridge book, do what the authors suggest! Now that’s a plan! (Update on this column: One of the Snowbird readers of the Banner called me from sunny Florida to say that he was enjoying my column. He really wanted to know, however, where he could play bridge in Barry County. Hmmm…that sounds like a future column. Happy Bridge in 2012. ) ( Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs.) (An update from Kellogg Community College Institute for Learning in Retirement: For Intermediate and Advanced Beginner Bridge players, class number two The Play of the Hand will be offered in Battle Creek for nine weeks, beginning April 23, 2012. For more information, call the ILR office to reserve a spot at 269-948-9500, Extension 2804.) ATTENTION BARRY TOWNSHIP RESIDENTS REGULAR MEETING DATES 2012-2013 1ST TUESDAY OF EACH MONTH 7:00 P.M. Note: Dates with an *asterisk are for another weekday. *** APRIL 10, 2012 (2nd Tuesday) MAY 1, 2012 JUNE 5, 2012 JULY 3, 2012 AUGUST 6, 2012 (1st Monday) SEPTEMBER 4, 2012 OCTOBER 2, 2012 NOVEMBER 5, 2012 (1st Monday) *** DECEMBER 3, 2012 (1st Monday) *** JANUARY 8, 2013 (2nd Tuesday) FEBRUARY 5, 2013 MARCH 5, 2013 PUBLIC HEARING @ 6:30 p.m. All meetings are held at the Barry Township Hall at 7:00 p.m. unless noted otherwise. Business hours are Wednesdays only 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon and 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. Barry Township will provide reasonable auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed material being considered at any township meeting, to individuals with disabilities upon seven days notice to the clerk. 155 E. ORCHARD STREET P.O. Box 705 DELTON, MI 49046 PH 269-623-5171 OR FAX 269-623-8171 EMAIL: barrytownship@mei.net 77566326 Respectfully, Debra J. Knight, Barry Township Clerk PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY NOTICE OF BUDGET PUBLIC HEARING The Prairieville Township Board will hold a public hearing on the proposed township budget for the fiscal year 2012-2013 on March 28, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. at the Prairieville Township Hall, 10115 S. Norris Road, Delton Michigan THE PROPERTY TAX MILLAGE RATE PROPOSED TO BE LEVIED TO SUPPORT THE PROPOSED BUDGET WILL BE A SUBJECT OF THIS HEARING. A copy of the proposed budget is available for public inspection at the Prairieville Township Hall. The Prairieville Township Board will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting upon six (6) days notice to the Prairieville Township Board. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Prairieville Township Board by writing or calling the following: Jill Owens, Clerk Prairieville Township Hall 10115 South Norris Road Delton, MI 49046 (269) 623-2726 77566424 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 15, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Justin Lowell Morgan and Rebecca Lynn Morgan, Husband and Wife to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Homeland Mortgage Company, its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated September 9, 2005 and recorded September 28, 2005 in Instrument # 1153525 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: CitiMortgage, Inc., by assignment dated January 30, 2012 and recorded February 10, 2012 in Instrument # 201202100001458 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Five Thousand Nine Hundred Twenty Dollars and Sixty-Eight Cents ($85,920.68) including interest 6.89% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on April 12, 2012 Said premises are situated in Village of Freeport, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 4, Block 7, Samuel Roush's Addition, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 23, Barry County Records. Commonly known as 236 S East St, Freeport MI 49325 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 3/15/2012 CitiMortgage, Inc., Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-56979 (0377566472 15)(04-05) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTENTION PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain Mortgage made between WALTER L. CHURCH and STEPHANIE S. CHURCH, husband and wife, whose address is 547 Meadow Lane, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagor, and ICNB MORTGAGE COMPANY LLC, a Michigan limited liability company, whose address is 302 West Main Street, Ionia, Michigan 48846, as Mortgagee, dated June 24, 2009, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on June 29, 2009, in Document No. 200906290006711, upon which Mortgage is claimed to be due at the date of this notice the sum of ONE HUNDRED THIRTY-FOUR THOUSAND FOUR HUNDRED EIGHTY-SIX AND 21/100 ($134,486.21) DOLLARS, and no suit or proceedings at law or equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said Mortgage, or any part thereof; NOW, THEREFORE, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said Mortgage, and pursuant to the statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on April 5, 2012, at 1:00 p.m., said Mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse, 220 West State Street in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, Michigan (that being the building where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held) of the premises described in said Mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due of said Mortgage, with interest thereon at 4.875% per annum, and all legal costs, expenses and charges, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sums which may be paid by the undersigned to protect its interest in the premises, which said premises are described as follows: Land situated in the Township of Hastings, County of Barry and State of Michigan, to-wit: Lot 28 of the Plat of Fairhaven, according to the Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 45, Barry County Records, EXCEPT the West 311 feet of the North 294.75 feet of Lot 28 of the Plat of Fairhaven; together with ingress and egress over certain property described in the deed recorded in Liber 372, Page 522, as modified by Quit Claim Deed recorded in Liber 641, Page 673; ALSO the East 20 feet of the West 311 feet of the North 294.75 feet of Lot 28 of the Plat of Fairhaven as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 45, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of such sale, unless Mortgagor provides notice that the property is agricultural in accordance with MCL 600.3240(17), in which case the redemption period shall be one (1) year, or unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be thirty (30) days from the date of such sale. If the property described in this Notice is sold at the foreclosure sale referred to above, the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the purchaser who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period in accordance with MCL 600.3278 or as otherwise provided by law. ICNB MORTGAGE COMPANY LLC Mortgagee Dated this 1st day of March, 2012. TIMOTHY L. CURTISS, Esq. Braun Kendrick Finkbeiner P.L.C. 304 East Broadway, Suite 206 Mt. Pleasant, Michigan 48858 77566151 989/775-7404 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Brian Hannan, a single man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 18, 2005, and recorded on February 10, 2005 in instrument 1141308, and rerecorded on April 6, 2005 in instrument 1144424, and assigned by said Mortgagee to CitiMortgage, Inc. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Six Thousand Fifty-Seven and 51/100 Dollars ($86,057.51), including interest at 3.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 29, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The South of 1/2 of Lots 1 and 2, Block 19, Eastern Addition, according to the recorded plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 1, 2012 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #372178F01 77566130 (03-01)(03-22) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Wendell Armour, Jr. and Brenda Armour, husband and wife as joint tenants, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Alternative Lending Group, its successors or assigns, Mortgagee, dated May 1, 2001 and recorded August 3, 2001 in Instrument Number 1064146, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by GMAC Mortgage, LLC successor by merger to GMAC Mortgage Corporation by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Eight Thousand Nine Hundred Seventy-Three and 85/100 Dollars ($88,973.85) including interest at 7.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on APRIL 12, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The land referred to in this Commitment, situated in the County of Barry, Township of Rutland, State of Michigan, is described as follows: Beginning at a point on the North-South 1/4 line of Section 34, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, Rutland Township, Barry County, Michigan distant South 01 degree 17 minutes 42 seconds East, 1838.59 feet from the North 1/4 corner of said Section 34; thence South 01 degree 17 minutes 42 seconds East 255.00 feet along said North-South 1/4 line; thence South 89 degrees 54 minutes 46 seconds East 740.77 feet; thence North 01 degree 17 minutes 42 seconds West, 255.00 feet; thence North 88 degrees 54 minutes 46 seconds West, 740.77 feet to the point of beginning. Subject to an easement for public highway purposes. For highway M-43 as described in Liber 142 of Deeds on Page 49. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: March 15, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 618.8146 (03-15)(04-05) 77566428 SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by KALEE N. HUFF, A SINGLE WOMAN and CHRISTOPHER J. TAYLOR, A SINGLE MAN, to WOLVERINE BANK, Mortgagee, dated October 27, 2008, and recorded on October 29, 2008, in Document No. 20081029-0010582, and assigned by said mortgagee to MICHIGAN STATE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eighteen Thousand Five Hundred Fifty-Eight Dollars and Twenty-Three Cents ($118,558.23), including interest at 5.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on April 5, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: LOT 6 AND THE SOUTH 3 FEET OF LOT 1, BLOCK 8, DANIEL STRIKER'S ADDITION TO THE CITY, FORMERLY VILLAGE OF HASTINGS, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF AS RECORDED IN LIBER 1 OF PLATS ON PAGE 11, BARRY COUNTY RECORDS. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. MICHIGAN STATE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY Mortgagee/ Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 77566321 48335 USBW.001309 (03-08)(03-29) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Marcie L. Tepper, A Single Woman, original mortgagor(s), to Argent Mortgage Company, LLC, Mortgagee, dated February 24, 2006, and recorded on March 2, 2006 in instrument 1160761, and assigned by mesne assignments to Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Argent Securities Inc., Asset-Backed Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2006-W4 as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Seven Thousand Three Hundred Fifty-Five and 56/100 Dollars ($107,355.56), including interest at 10.95% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 22, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel 1: Part of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 21, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, Thornapple Township, Barry County, Michigan described as: Commencing at the Northeast corner of said section, thence North 89 Degrees 47 Minutes 15 Seconds West 869.48 Feet along the North line of said section to the point of beginning, thence South 00 Degrees 16 Minutes 10 seconds West 920.00 Feet parallel with the West line of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of said section, thence North 89 Degrees 47 Minutes 15 Seconds West 234.74 Feet, thence North 00 Degrees 16 Minutes 10 Seconds East 920.00 Feet, thence South 89 Degrees 47 Minutes 15 Seconds East 234.74 Feet along the North line of said section to the point of beginning. Subject to Highway Right-of-Way for Finkbeiner Road over the North 33.0 Feet thereof. Parcel 2: Part of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of section 21, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, Thornapple Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Commencing at the Northeast coner of said section, thence North 89 Degrees 47 Minutes 15 Seconds West 1104.22 Feet along the North line of said Section to the point of beginning, thence South 00 Degrees 16 Minutes 20 Seconds West 920.00 Feet parallel with the West line of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of said section, thence North 89 Degrees 47 Minutes 15 Seconds West 234.74 Feet, thence North 00 Degrees 16 Minutes 10 Seconds East 920.00 Feet along the West line of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of said section, thence South 89 Degrees 47 Minutes 15 Seconds East 234.74 Feet along the North line of said section to the point of beginning. Subject to Highway Right-ofWay for Finkbeiner Road over the North 33.0 Feet thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 23, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #259898F03 77565931 (02-23)(03-15) SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by JAMES W. SUTHERLAND, A SINGLE MAN, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns,, Mortgagee, dated April 12, 2005, and recorded on April 19, 2005, in Document No. 1145092, and assigned by said mortgagee to GMAC MORTGAGE, LLC SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO GMAC MORTGAGE CORPORATION, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ninety-Four Thousand Five Hundred Forty-Five Dollars and Forty-Six Cents ($194,545.46), including interest at 6.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on March 22, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: THE SOUTH 1320 FEET OF THE WEST 1 /2 OF THE EAST 1 /2 OF THE SOUTHWEST 1 /4 OF SECTION 14, TOWN 4 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST, EXCEPT THE WEST 230 FEET THEREOF. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. GMAC MORTGAGE, LLC SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO GMAC MORTGAGE CORPORATION Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 GMAC.008493 (0277566066 23)(03-15) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Richard Frank and Abigail B. Frank, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Lend America, Mortgagee, dated July 31, 2009, and recorded on August 26, 2009 in instrument 200908260008726, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Loan Care, a division of FNF Servicing, Inc. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Two Thousand One Hundred Fifty-Three and 36/100 Dollars ($102,153.36), including interest at 5.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 22, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 7, Town 2 North, Range 10 West, described as: Commencing at the East 1/4 corner of said Section 7; thence North 89 degrees 18 minutes 00 seconds West 1320.51 feet, along the South line of the Northeast 1/4; thence North 00 degrees 15 minutes 08 seconds West 695.99 feet, along the East line of the West 1/2 of the Northeast 1/4, to the point of beginning; thence North 00 degrees 15 minutes 08 seconds West 370.00 feet; thence North 89 degrees 28 minutes 40 seconds West 269.45 feet; thence Southeasterly 81.56 feet, along a 151.83 foot radius curve to the right, the chord of which bears South 15 degrees 34 minutes 38 seconds East 80.56 feet; thence South 00 degrees 19 minutes 57 seconds East 292.53 feet; thence South 89 degrees 28 minutes 40 seconds East 247.75 feet, to the point of beginning. Subject to an together with an easement for ingress, egress and utilities as described below Description of a 66 foot wide Easement for Ingress, Egress and Utilities: that part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 7, Town 2 North, Range 10 West, described as: Commencing at the East 1/4 corner of said Section 7; thence North 89 degrees 18 minutes 00 seconds West 1320.51 feet, along the South line of the Northeast 1/4; thence North 00 degrees 15 minutes 08 seconds West 1318.97 feet, along the East line of the West 1/2 of the Northeast 1/4; thence North 89 degrees 28 minutes 40 seconds West 464.30 feet, along the North line of the Southwest 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of said Section to the point of beginning, and the centerline of said 56 foot wide strip of land; thence South 00 degrees 19 minutes 58 seconds East 24.45 feet; thence Southeasterly 141.58 feet, along a 150.0 foot radius curve to the left, the chord of which bears South 27 degrees 45 minutes 38 seconds East 135.38 feet; thence South 54 degrees 24 minutes 49 seconds East 111.13 feet; thence Southerly 143.31 feet, along a 151.83 foot radius curve to the right, the chord of which bears South 27 degrees 23 minutes 53 seconds East 138.05 feet; thence South 00 degrees 19 minutes 57 seconds East 404.65 feet, to reference point A and the point of ending of said 66 foot wide strip of land, also subject to and together with an easement for ingress, egress and utilities over a 60.0 foot radius turnaround, the radius point of which is the aforesaid reference point A The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 23, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #357226F02 77566030 (02-23)(03-15) STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Trust In the Matter of KENNETH S. STEVENS TRUST u/t/a dated September 7, 2005. Date of Birth: December 1, 1948. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Kenneth S. Stevens, Trustee, who lived at 8998 Stevens Road, Delton, Michigan died March 5, 2012 leaving the above Trust entitled “Kenneth S. Stevens Trust” in full force and effect. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the decedent or against the Trust will be forever barred unless presented to Edward Lane Davis and Carol Lyn Davis within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: March 7, 2012 Stephanie S. Fekkes P43549 150 W. Court Street Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 945-1921 Edward Lane Davis and Carol Lyn Davis 6245 Meadowview Avenue 77566389 Kalamazoo, MI 49048 Notice of Foreclosure Sale THIS LAW FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. MORTGAGE SALE - Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by Richard L. Warner and Judy A. Warner of Barry County, Michigan, Mortgagors, unto Consumers Credit Union, Mortgagee, dated the 27th day of August, 2004, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deed for the County of Barry and State of Michigan on the 3rd day of September, 2004, in Liber 1133469 of Barry County Records, on Pages 1-9, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, at the date of this notice, for principal and interest, the sum of $206,684.32. And no suit or proceeding at law or in equity have been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to the statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on Thursday, April 19, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. local time, said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder or bidders, for cash at the Barry County Courthouse, Hastings, Michigan, that being the place where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held, of the premises described in said mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due, as aforesaid on said mortgage, with interest thereon at 8.99% per annum and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and also any sum or sums which may be paid by the undersigned, necessary to protect its interest in the premises, which said premises are situated in the Township of Barry, County of Barry, and described as follows: Commencing at the North 1/4 post of Section 8, Town 1 North, Range 9 West; Thence South 01 degree 21 minutes 00 seconds East along the North and South 1/4 line of said Section, 1320.96 feet; Thence South 89 degrees 50 minutes 00 seconds East along the North line of the South 1/2 of the Northeast 1/4 of said Section 8, a distance of 813.47 feet; Then South 37 degrees 13 minutes 48 seconds East, 95.34 feet; Thence South 34 degrees 25 minutes 30 seconds East, 112.31 feet; Thence South 39 degrees 29 minutes 34 seconds East, 62.81 feet; Thence South 40 degrees 47 minutes 17 seconds East, 20.46 feet; Then South 42 degrees 14 minutes 35 seconds East, 515.75 feet; Thence South 52 degrees 43 minutes 27 seconds East, 169.55 feet to the true place of beginning; Thence North 36 degrees 38 minutes 32 seconds East, 113.03 feet to a traverse line along the shore of Pleasant Lake; Thence South 63 degrees 42 minutes 41 seconds East, along said traverse line 54.00 feet to the end of said traverse line; Thence South 38 degrees 05 minutes 37 seconds West, 123.33 feet; Thence North 52 degrees 43 minutes 27 seconds West, 50.00 feet to the place of beginning. Intending to include all land between the above described traverse line and the waters edge of Pleasant Lake. Together with and subject to: Easement 1: An easement for ingress and egress over a strip of land 30 feet wide described as: commencing at the North 1/4 post of Section 8, Town 1 North, Range 9 West; Thence South 01 degree 21 minutes 00 seconds East along the North and South 1/4 line of said Section, 1320.96 feet to the place of beginning; Thence South 89 degrees 50 minutes 00 seconds East along the North line of the South 1/2 of the Northeast 1/4 of said Section 8, a distance of 813.47 feet; Thence South 37 degrees 13 minutes 48 seconds East, 37.76 feet; Thence North 89 degrees 50 minutes 00 seconds West, 835.61 feet to said North and South 1/4 line; Thence North 01 degree 21 minutes 00 seconds West along said 1/4 line, 30.01 feet to the place of beginning. Easement 2: An easement for ingress and egress over a strip of land 16.50 feet wide described as: commencing at the North 1/2 post of Section 8, Town 1 North, Range 9 West; Thence South 01 degree 21 minutes 00 seconds East along the North and South 1/4 line of said Section, 1320.96 feet; Thence South 89 degrees 50 minutes 00 seconds East along the North line of the South 1/2 of the Northeast 1/4 of said Section 8, a distance of 813.47 feet; Thence South 37 degrees 13 minutes 48 seconds East, 37.76 feet to the true place of beginning; Thence South 37 degrees 13 minutes 38 seconds East 57.57 feet; Thence South 34 degrees 25 minutes 30 seconds East, 112.31 feet; Thence South 39 degrees 29 minutes 34 seconds East, 62.81 feet; Thence South 40 degrees 47 minutes 17 seconds East, 176.21 feet; Thence South 42 degrees 14 minutes 35 seconds East, 360.00 feet; Thence South 52 degrees 43 minutes 26 seconds East, 269.55 feet; Thence South 59 degrees 00 minutes 18 seconds East, 200.00 feet; Thence South 43 degrees 36 minutes 32 seconds West, 16.91 feet; Thence North 59 degrees 00 minutes 18 seconds West, 197.21 feet; Thence North 52 degrees 43 minutes 26 seconds West, 271.97 feet; Thence North 42 degrees 14 minutes 35 seconds West, 361.65 feet; Thence North 40 degrees 47 minutes 17 seconds West, 176.67 feet; Thence North 39 degrees 29 minutes 34 seconds West, 63.37 feet; Thence North 34 degrees 25 minutes 30 seconds West, 112.64 feet; Thence North 37 degrees 13 minutes 48 seconds West, 69.78 feet; Thence South 89 degrees 50 minutes 00 seconds East, 20.76 feet to the place of beginning. Property address: 11389 S. West Shore Drive, Delton, MI 49046 The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241 a, in which case the redemption period shall be thirty days from the date of such sale. Dated: March 8, 2012 Tyren R. Cudney (P46638) Attorney for Mortgagee DRAFTED BY: Tyren R. Cudney Lennon, Miller, O’Connor & Bartosiewicz, PLC. 900 Comerica Building Kalamazoo, MI 49007/(269) 381-8844 77566392 �Page 12 — Thursday, March 15, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by CHARLES C. FLANAGAN JR and JENNIFER C. FLANAGAN, HUSBAND AND WIFE, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated June 11, 2007, and recorded on June 26, 2007, in Document No. 1182207, and assigned by said mortgagee to FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eleven Thousand Eight Hundred Twenty-Five Dollars and Five Cents ($111,825.05), including interest at 5.250% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on March 29, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: THE NORTH 220 FEET OF THE SOUTH 880 FEET OF THE WEST 208 FEET OF THE NORTHEAST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 18, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 77566208 LBPS.001747 (03-01)(03-22) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by ELMER HAAKSMA and ALICE HAAKSMA, husband and wife (collectively, "Mortgagor"), to BYRON BANK, now known as CHEMICAL BANK, a Michigan banking corporation, having an office at 333 E. Main Street, Midland, Michigan 48640-6511 (the "Mortgagee"), dated November 29, 2005, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on December 12, 2005, as Instrument No. 1157537 (the "Mortgage"). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgagee is the owner of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage. Mortgage Electronic Registration System (MERS) is not the sole foreclosing party. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Five Hundred Thirty-Two Thousand Three Hundred Eight and 43/100 Dollars ($532,308.43). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 12th day of April, 2012, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the Township of Yankee Springs, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: Lot(s) 95, Sunrise Shores No. 2, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 98. Together with all the improvements erected on the real estate, and all easements, appurtenances, and fixtures a part of the property, and all replacements and additions. Commonly known as: 12711 Sunrise Court, Wayland, Michigan 49348 P.P. #08-16-220-095-00 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys the premises at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee for damaging the premises during the redemption period. Dated: March 15, 2012 CHEMICAL BANK Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2487 (616) 752-2000 77566442 7656530-1 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Timothy B. Priemer, an unmarried man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 31, 2006, and recorded on September 6, 2006 in instrument 1169562, and assigned by said Mortgagee to PHH Mortgage Corporation as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Four Thousand Eight Hundred Eighty-Five and 48/100 Dollars ($104,885.48), including interest at 7.833% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on April 12, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 12 of Smith's Lakeview Estates No. 1 according to the recorded plat thereof as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats on Page 2, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 15, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #393109F01 77566437 (03-15)(04-05) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Nicholas D. Blakely, a married man and Tiffany C. Blakely, signing for sole purpose of waiving her dower and homestead rights, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated November 30, 2005, and recorded on December 13, 2005 in instrument 1157561, and assigned by said Mortgagee to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Two Thousand Two Hundred Fifty-Two and 59/100 Dollars ($102,252.59), including interest at 7.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on April 12, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 10 of R.B. Gregg Addition, Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan according to the recorded plat thereof as recorded in Liber 1 of plats, Page 13, Barry County Records The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 15, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #345976F02 77566309 (03-15)(04-05) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Joseph D. Kurger and Jennifer S. Kruger, Husband and Wife to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Flagstar Bnak, FSB, its successors and assigns , Mortgagee, dated August 17, 2006 and recorded August 28, 2006 in Instrument # 1169177 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: Flagstar Bank, FSB, by assignment dated February 1, 2012 and recorded February 10, 2012in Instrument # 201202100001456 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Twenty-Six Thousand Six Hundred Thirty-Three Dollars and Fifteen Cents ($226,633.15) including interest 2.625% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on March 22, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land in the Northeast one-quarter of Section 26, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, described as follows: Beginning at a point on the North line of Section 26, distant South 89 degrees 31 minutes 41 seconds West 457.19 feet from the Northeast corner thereof; thence South 00 degrees 15 minutes 18 seconds West 991.60; thence South 89 degrees 31 minutes 59 seconds West 248.00 feet along the North line of the South 10 acres of the Northeast one-quarter of the Northeast one-quarter of Section 26; thence North 00 degrees 15 minutes 18 seconds East 991.58 feet to the North line of said Section 26; thence North 89 degrees 31 minutes 41 seconds East 248.00 feet to the place of beginning, Hasting Township, Barry County, Michigan. Commonly known as 3888 River Rd, Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 2/23/2012 Flagstar Bank, FSB, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-56331 (02-23)(03-15) FORECLOSURE NOTICE RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES, P.C. MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. Mortgage Sale - Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by Jack E. Rider, A Single Man to Hamilton Mortgage Company, Mortgagee, dated October 27, 2004, and recorded on November 16, 2004, as Document Number: 1137301, Barry County Records, said mortgage was assigned to Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee, for Carrington Mortgage Loan Trust, Series 2005-NC1 Asset Backed Pass-Through Certificates by an Assignment of Mortgage which has been submitted to the Barry County Register of Deeds, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Seven Thousand Twenty and 57/100 ($77,020.57) including interest at the rate of 6.75000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the Circuit Court in said Barry County, where the premises to be sold or some part of them are situated, at 01:00 PM on March 29, 2012 Said premises are situated in the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 3, Block 6, H.J. Kenfield`s Addition to the City (formerly Village) of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 9. Commonly known as: 708 EAST WALNUT STREET If the property is eventually sold at foreclosure sale, the redemption period will be 6.00 months from the date of sale unless the property is abandoned or used for agricultural purposes. If the property is determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 and/or 600.3241a, the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of sale, or 15 days after statutory notice, whichever is later. If the property is presumed to be used for agricultural purposes prior to the date of the foreclosure sale pursuant to MCL 600.3240, the redemption period is 1 year. Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages are, if any, limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: March 1, 2012 Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee, for Carrington Mortgage Loan Trust, Series 2005-NC1 Asset Backed Pass-Through Certificates 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302, (248) 335-9200 Case No. 12MI00227-1 (0377566183 01)(03-22) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Matthew Bourdo, a married man and Lucy Bourdo, as to her dower and homestead rights, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated March 14, 2005, and recorded on March 22, 2005 in instrument 1143017, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-Seven Thousand Eight Hundred Forty-One and 78/100 Dollars ($167,841.78), including interest at 5.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 29, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the North 1/4 Post of Section 20, Town 2 North, range 10 West, Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michgian, thence East 615.78; thence South 697.62 feet; thence North 60 degrees West 75.90 feet; thence North 59 degrees 06 minutes 53 seconds West 462.56 feet to the place of beginning of this description; thence South 29 degrees 53 minutes 44 seconds West 347.40 feet; thence North 58 degrees West 173.63 feet; thence North 35 degrees 25 minutes 19 seconds East 345.05 feet; thence South 59 degrees 06 minutes 53 seconds East 140.31 feet the placeof beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 1, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #241719F03 77566135 (03-01)(03-22) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Curtis H. Conrad and LoQuisha M. Conrad, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Countrywide Home Loans, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 23, 2002, and recorded on August 28, 2002 in instrument 1086428, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fifty-Three Thousand Seven Hundred Fifty-Three and 58/100 Dollars ($153,753.58), including interest at 6.75% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 22, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 14, Town 4 North, Range 10 West; thence East 12 rods; thence South 16 rods; thence West 12 rods; thence North 16 rods to the point of beginning. excepting therefrom the South 5 feet thereof. Also a parcel of land commencing 12 rods East of the Northwest corner of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 14, Town 4 North, Range 10 West for the place of beginning; Thence East 8 rods; thence South 10 rods; thence West 8 rods; thence North 10 rods to the place of the beginning. Also a parcel of land commencing 54 rods West of the Northeast corner of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 14, Town 4 North, Range 10 West; thence South 10 rods; thence West 6 rods; thence North 10 rods; thence East 6 rods to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 23, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #379291F01 77566020 (02-23)(03-15) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by John R. Haynes, and Theresa L. Haynes, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated December 21, 2007, and recorded on January 8, 2008 in instrument 20080108-0000275, and assigned by said Mortgagee to SunTrust Mortgage, Inc. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Four Thousand Four Hundred Eighteen and 21/100 Dollars ($94,418.21), including interest at 6.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on April 5, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the West 1/4 corner of said Section; thence South 89 degrees 41 minutes 02 seconds East 1317.64 feet along the South line said Northwest 1/4; thence North 00 degrees 33 minutes 17 seconds East 735.00 feet along the West line of the East 1/2 of said Northwest 1/4 to the place of beginning; thence North 00 degrees 33 minutes 17 seconds East 220.00 feet along said West line; thence South 89 degrees 41 minutes 02 seconds East 325.00 feet; thence South 00 degrees 33 minutes 17 seconds West 220.00 feet; thence North 89 degrees 41 minutes 02 seconds West 325.00 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 8, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #390507F01 77566225 (03-08)(03-29) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Norman H. Royston, unmarried, original mortgagor(s), to Bank of America, N.A., Mortgagee, dated June 25, 2008, and recorded on July 11, 2008 in instrument 20080711-0007102, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Forty-Three Thousand Four Hundred Ninety-Nine and 71/100 Dollars ($143,499.71), including interest at 6% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on April 5, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Northeast corner of the Southeast fractional 1/4 of Section 25, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, Hasting Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence South to the Northerly line of Michigan Central Railroad right-of-way; thence in a Southwesterly direction along said rightof-way 255 feet to the place of beginning; thence Southwesterly along said right-of-way 45 feet; thence Northwesterly at a 90 degree angle to said right-of-way to the lake; thence Northeasterly along the lake 45 feet; thence Southeasterly to the place of beginning. Also a strip of land being former raid road right-of-way situated in the County of Barry, Hasting Township being part of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 25, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, located over and across or adjacent to the property hereinbefore described The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 8, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #398120F01 77566231 (03-08)(03-29) See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits NOTICE The minutes of the meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners held March 13, 2012, are available in the County Clerk’s Office at 220 W. State St., Hastings, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or www.barrycounty.org. 77566290 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 15, 2012 — Page 13 POLICE BEAT BEA Meth lab busted on High Street Early Wednesday, March 14, Hastings officers, assisted by the Michigan State Police, executed a search warrant at home in the 100 block of East High Street. After being denied entry, officers forced their way into the home to find three occupants. During a search of the residence, officers located items consistent with a working methamphetamine lab inside the garage, and additional evidence in the home. The occupants admitted to past meth production and plans to produce more of the illegal drug. A 43-year-old occupant of the home was taken into custody and lodged in the Barry County Jail. The suspect is now awaiting formal arraignment on drug manufacturing charges. Car chase ends in short foot race In the early hours of March 11, Barry County Sheriff Deputies began pursuing a Dodge Stratus north of Hastings. Michigan State Troopers joined deputies on Heath Road with the chase running east on State Street in Hastings to Nashville Highway, then south of McKeown Road. The driver turned east into a field, drove up to a wood line and fled on foot. The 22-year-old Grand Rapids man was soon taken into custody. Troopers helped recover evidence and, noticed damage to the vehicle not related to the pursuit, asked dispatch staff to contact surrounding counties for any hit and run or robberies reported. Deputies contacted the registered owner of the vehicle who said his car should have been parked in a garage at his business in Wayland. Troopers went to the business and found signs of forced entry and damage to the building and another vehicle, as well as evidence that the intruder had been in the offices. A State Police crime scene technician was able to locate evidence and match shoe impressions at the scene to the driver, along with other evidence. Troopers interviewed the driver and obtained a full confession. Charges are pending in both Barry and Allegan counties. Teens caught shoplifting; one goes to jail Hastings Police responded March 6 to a request from the Hastings Kmart Store where two individuals had been taken into custody by store security personnel for retail fraud. Employees told officers that the two female Hastings residents, 16 and 17 years old, had been acting suspiciously. The two allegedly selected numerous items from the clothing section, then wandered into the infant section taking the items with them. One teen was seen placing the items into a large purse held by the other teen. Both individuals left the store without paying for the items. Security personnel stopped the two outside and took them into custody. The 17year-old was taken to jail while the 16-yearold was released to her parents. Both suspects confessed. BB fired at car in city limits Hastings officers were dispatched March 12 on a malicious destruction of property report. A Hastings motorist said he had been driving on East Bond Street when he heard something hit his vehicle. After the man arrived home minutes later, he noticed a small ding in the side of his car. The damage appeared to have been made by a BB striking his vehicle. The estimated repair is about $400. Anyone having information concerning this incident is asked to call the Hastings Police Department, 269-945-5744. Police warn of Internet scams Hastings Police are reminding Internet users to beware of scams. One caller reported he was looking at a car on craigslist and that located “an excellent buy” in California. The caller said the car was crated and all set to ship from California, but that the owner was in Battle Creek. The seller had requested that the buyer make the purchase through eBay Pay Pal which is consistent with a scam. Hastings Police are aware of several of these types of fraud cases in the area. Another scam was for a truck, paid for in advance, to be shipped to a Nashville resident that was never delivered. Another attempted scam occurred when a potential buyer haggled over the price of a truck listed for sale by a Hastings resident. After an agreed-upon price was reached, a check arrived for more than the purchase price, asking the local seller to cash it and return the extra cash to the buyer for taxes and insurance. After finding the money order was fraudulent, a meeting was attempted to meet the buyer in person. The craigslist buyer disappeared from the Internet. In another Internet scam, a potential horse trailer buyer found a deal too good to be true. Shortly after finding a great deal on a “like new” horse trailer, the buyer found the same trailer offered for sale by someone else for a lot more money. The scammer had used the same actual photo of someone else’s trailer in the listing. Visit to friend turns into sleepover A 22-year-old Charlotte man went to the Barry County Jail to visit an inmate March 10. After the man was identified by his Michigan driver’s license, he was found to have a warrant for his arrest on child neglect out of Eaton County. He was informed of the warrant and immediately arrested then housed at the Barry County Jail. Radiators stolen from pole barn Barry County Deputies responded to a breaking and entering report on South Charlton Park Road March 9. The owner said someone had broken into his pole barn and taken two Allis-Chalmers tractor radiators. He also told deputies he thought the theft took place on foot because there were no tire tracks. He told deputies he had already checked with local scrap yards and was unable to locate the radiators, worth about $850. The case remains open. White van suspected in tool theft Deputies were dispatched March 1 to a Dowling Road residence. The caller reported a break-in at a pole barn and several power tools stolen. Two Stihl chainsaws, a Milwaukee Sawzall and a DeWalt cordless drill had been taken. The owner and his wife had noticed an unfamiliar white Dodge van in the area. There are no suspects in the case. After passing test, man orders a beer A 63-year-old Hastings man, known to be out on bond for an operating while intoxicated, third offense, was seen ordering and drinking a beer at a local bar Feb. 17. A witness reported that the man walked into the bar, said he had just passed his Breathalyzer test, and proceeded to drink beer. The report has been forwarded to the Barry County Prosecutor. Recording may be incriminating Deputies responded to a reported domestic disturbance on Ferris Road in Johnstown Township March 12. Upon arrival, the man who had called 911 said his 17-year-old stepson had wanted to sit on the porch during a tornado warning. According to the man, his stepson “exploded” and started swearing at his stepfather and mother. The 17-year-old, who reportedly has a history of violence, became aggressive and was yelling sexual slurs at his mother. His 44year-old mother then slapped him across the face. The woman told deputies she had recorded the argument. According to the deputy’s report, the stepfather was allegedly provoking the stepson to violence in order to call the police. The deputy reported that the recording also revealed all three of the subjects swearing at each other. The report was forwarded to the prosecutor’s office, and the case remains open. James Kohn Medicare Part B deadline near convicted in federal court James Andrew Kohn, who was ordered to serve 18 to 50 years in state prison by Barry County Circuit Court Judge Amy McDowell Feb. 23, appeared in federal court in Grand Rapids March 9. Federal prosecutors argued Kohn had produced 46 images of his sexual assault of a young girl. Kohn, 48, was convicted in Barry County Court on two counts of criminal sexual conduct, first degree, with a person under 13 years of age. In federal court, he pleaded guilty to producing child pornography, with an understanding the charge of possession of child pornography would be dropped. A sentencing date is yet to be determined, but Kohn faces 15 to 30 years on federal charges, which would run concurrently with the circuit court sentence. BOWLING SCORES Tuesday Night Mixed Boyce Milk Haulers 76-36; Hurless Machine Shop 66.5-45.5; Hometown Lumber 65.5-46.5; Barry County Red Cross 64.547.5; J-Bar Antique Tractors 41-68; Dirt Broke 22.5-89.5. Men’s Good Games and Series - D. Benner 224-580; D. Blakely 222-537; G. Hause 200-570; S. Hause 193-527; K. Beebe 191-527; M. Yost 175. Women’s Good Games and Series - b. Wilkins 198-496; S. Beebe 185-511; D. Service 155; F. Smith 154; B. Smith 151; B. Ramey 141. Monday Mixerettes Kent Oil 64.5-43.5; Dean’s Dolls 56.551.5; Nashville Chiropractic 56.5-51.5; NBT 56.5-51.5; Dewey’s Auto Body 46-58; James Process Service 40-64. Good games and series - N. Goggins 157; S. Dunham 176; N. Potter 155; P. Fowler 168; K. Fowler 180; M. Rodgers 162; K. Eberly 210-531; D. Snyder 194-530; T. Christopher 185-541; S. Nash 156; L. Elliston 186. Senior Citizens Butterfingers 65-43; Just Having Fun 63.544.5; Kuempel 57-51; King Pins 54-54; Three Gals and a Guy 53-55; Ustedtobe #1 53-55; M&M’s 52-56; Early Risers 49-59; Sun Risers 48.5-59.5; Ward’s Friends 45-63. Good games and series women - M. Kingsley 101-251; S. Patch 213-557; B. Benedict 174-426; C. Stuart 192-484; M. Wieland 192-484; G. Meaney 167-488; Y. Cheeseman 164; P. Snellington 158-428. Good games and series men - G. Waggoner 191-512; L. Brandt 199-544; W. Mallekoote 198-551; R. Boniface 171-482; C. Purdum Sr. 192-563; L. Dunn 200-496; G. Forbey 157; P. Gasper 225-612; R. Walker 178; D. Kiersey 214-523; M. Saldivar 181; K. Schantz 191-501; B. Terry 210; L. Markley 175; W. Talsma 200-0540. Wednesday P.M. Mills Landing 74-34; Four Pals 64.5-43.5; The River 63-45; Eye & ENT 59-49; Hair Care 50.5-53.5* * Games to be made up. Good games and series - S. Beebe 182. Sunday Night Mixed You’re Up N Shit 67; Eastsiders 62; Street Bowlers 55; Sandbaggers 52 1/2; Sunday Snoozers 51; Rollin Olins 50 1/2; Straightliners 50. Womens good games and series - M. Simpson 186-526; K. Becker 196-520; A. Hubbell 198-479; K. Plett 176-407; M. Musser 139-352; M. Olin 182; C. Demott 142. Mens good games and series - B. Allen 202-529; S. Olin 211; B. Hubbell 209; R. Snyder 183. Saturday Majors (Youth League) Strikers 50-26; Leones 47-29; Hastings Bowl 37.5-38.5; Zombies 36.5-39.5; Whatever 30.5-45.5; Great Balls of Fire 26.549.5. Girls Good Games and Series - S. Gross 110-235; C. Roush 144-399. Boys Good Games and Series - J. Clous 159-385; K. Kenyon 150; J. Ulrich 124; J. Elliott 119-312; C. Stout 169-394. GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. by Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist If you didn’t sign up for Medicare Part B medical insurance when you first became eligible for Medicare, you now have an opportunity to apply — but time is running out. The deadline for applying during the general enrollment period is March 31. If you miss the deadline, you may have to wait until 2013 to apply. Medicare Part B covers some medical expenses not covered by Medicare Part A (hospital insurance), such as doctors’ fees, outpatient hospital visits and other medical supplies and services. When you first become eligible for hospital insurance (Part A), you have a sevenmonth period in which to sign up for medical insurance (Part B). After that, you may have to pay a higher premium — unless you were covered through your current employer’s group health plan or a group health plan based on a spouse’s current employment. You are given another opportunity to enroll in Part B during the general enrollment period, from Jan. 1 to March 31 of each year, but each 12month period that you are eligible for Medicare Part B and do not sign up, the amount of your monthly premium increases by 10 percent. You can learn more about Medicare by reading our electronic booklet, Medicare at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10043.html, visit the Medicare website, www.medicare.gov or call Medicare, 800-MEDICARE (800-6334227). Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. DNR invites input on proposed closures in Yankee Springs by David DeDecker Staff Writer The Michigan Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Division is inviting the public to discuss the Barry State Game Area Draft Master Plan and proposed road closures within the Barry State Game Area. A meeting is set for Wednesday, March 28, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Hastings Public Library, Community Room, 227 E. State St., Hastings. The proposed road closure has three parts: Permanently closure of County Farm Trail between Peets Road and Whitmore Road in Section 19 of Rutland Township; permanently closure of Fire Tower Trail between Hart Road and Gun Lake Road in sections 29 and 30 of Rutland Township; and seasonally closure the trail in Section 32 of Rutland Township that runs off of Whitmore Road and provides access to Glass Creek. This trail would be open during waterfowl season so hunters could access Glass Creek. According to Sara Schaefer, DNR Southwest Region biologist, these trails receive heavy use by sightseers, as well as people “mudding” and partying. The trails were designed to provide access for hunters and trappers. The reason for the closures, she said, is that ORV damage has become excessive to the point the trails are no longer passable at times. During the hunting season a four-wheel drive vehicle could get down portions of these trails. Schaefer said these trails should provide access to any passenger vehicle. The burden of maintaining these trails in working order currently exceeds the ability of the DNR to fund the maintenance, and reduced staffing limits the amount of time available to work on the trails. “By closing the trails, we will be able repair them so they are passable again in case of emergencies and also be able to maintain them in good condition so the erosion will be under control,” said Schaefer. “Foot traffic will still be allowed. Closure of these trails may actually increase quality hunting opportunities because of the decreased disturbance by vehicle traffic through the area.” The main portion of the master plan that deals with proposed changes in the habitat and look of the game area are outlined and introduces a new hunter accessibility plan. This is to create special hunting access and accommodations for hunters with physical disabilities. The future desired condition goals in the plan will require timber cutting at a greater level than in the past 20 years. Schaefer will have two hard copies and an electronic copy of the draft master plan at the Hastings Public Library for people to view during the comment period. The public comment period will end April 30 for both the plan and the road closure proposals. Persons with disabilities needing accommodations for the meeting should call Cindy McQueer, 269-685-6851, ext. 139, a minimum of five business days before the meeting. Requests made less than five business days before the event may not be accommodated. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 For Sale National Ads Business Services AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is deceptive, fraudulent or might otherwise violate law or accepted standards of taste. However, this publication does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the quality of goods or services advertised. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made in any advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you ask for money in advance of delivery of goods or services advertised. BOOKKEEPING SERVICES Personal * Self-Employed * Small Business Payroll * Billing Accounts Receivable * Accounts Payable General Ledger Weekly * Monthly * Quarterly * Annually Call today! (269)420-5714 HEAT YOUR ENTIRE HOME FOR FREE- Outdoor Wood Furnaces. Eliminates high heating bills. Helps reduce your carbon footprint. Buy NOW & save up to $1,145! Call SOS your “Stocking Dealer” Dutton, MI 616-554-8669 or 616-9155061 Estate Sale ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. Automotive 2006 TOYOTA AVALON: looks good, runs good, 167k miles, $10,500, (269)838-5958. Card of Thanks THE FAMILY OF Donald Schrader would like to thank family and friends and perfect strangers who visited, sent prayers, phoned, sent condolences, email messages, postings on koopsfc and facebook, plants, food, cards, donations to Spectrum Hospice in his name. They are all very much appreciated and fill our hearts to overflowing during this difficult time. For Rent ALGONQUIN LAKE 1BD on the lake. $550/month, 1st months rent + security deposit. Call Michelle, 616-2933104. Antiques ANTIQUE SHOW, MARCH 24th & 25th, Barry County Fairground. A large variety of antiques, Just north of Hastings on M-37. Saturday, 9am-5pm, Sunday 10am-3pm, $3.00 admission. PROFESSIONAL LAWN CARE SERVICES: Now taking new customers in the Hastings area. Very reasonable prices, please call for a free quote. (269)945-5383 Help Wanted 25 DRIVER TRAINEES Needed NOW! Become a driver for Werner Enterprises! Earn $750 per week! No experience needed! Local CDL Training! Job ready in 15 days! 1-877-649-2697. Recreation WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are interested in leasing acreage for this years deer season. Call (269)795-3049 PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 �Page 14 — Thursday, March 15, 2012 — The Hastings Banner GEERLINGS, continued from page 2 “I don’t think we would need a Terry Urquhart to come in here and help us,” he said. “I think we could get a nice, personable, well-liked person who will come in and have a seamless transition. That might work well in that situation but I don’t think we’re in that situation ... We are in the situation where we are craving somebody to come in and frankly, kick us in the pants and get us up to where [we] can be.” Trustee Patricia Endsley, who seconded Hart’s motion, agreed with Hart’s assessment. “Boy, you summed that up well,” said Endsley to Hart as he finished his list. “I think that the thing that struck me the most and solidified my own impressions, was setting down and going through the public comments and the site visit comments ... When you have somebody that everybody sees the same type of things in, then it’s probably the right person.” Garrison also said Hart’s list covered just about everything and that she was impressed that Geerlings has worked in elementary, middle and high schools as well as the central office. “Things that I heard on the site visit that tipped the tables ... what things you kept hearing at the site visit were things like seamless transitions,” she said. “He’s been in difficult places and has always risen to the occasion and he shines when he really has to.” Fred Jacobs was the only member of the community to speak about the superintendent candidates during the public-comment portion of the meeting. He likened the superintendent search to the Ford Motor Company’s recent search for a new CEO. “They exhausted all the candidates for the job in the automotive industry. Bill Ford said, ‘The next thing we need to do then is we need to find the best candidate for the job. Whether they have any knowledge of the auto industry is not important.’ They needed somebody who has a vision and persistence to change the mentality of the Ford Motor Company to make them once again one of the leading manufacturers of automotive products in the United States,” said Jacobs. “ ... They just needed a leader to guide and inspire them. That is what this is all about. If we are going to replace the superintendent here shortly, the most important superintendent that you have ever chosen in Hastings’ [Area Schools] history ... You had a huge, rich tradition, and you need to return to that ... You have the most important job ... The superintendent is the only person you hire ... I plead to you — as a local citizen, a graduate of Hastings High School, a fan of the school — I want to see Hastings return to what it once was ... I think we can do that ... We don’t need just a person.. We need a leader, someone who says ‘we are going to turn this around,’ who knows its all about passion and setting some hard goals ... I think with the right leadership ... the right person can change Hastings and return it to the greatest tradition of any school in the area ... But you got to have some guts now. The two candidates you interviewed the other night — there was no comparison. Pick the right person, and you’ll turn things around in a very short time.” Prior to being named assistant superintendent of Mona Shores Public Schools, Geerlings held the following posts: Director of special education and personnel, Kentwood Public schools 2004 to 2005; principal of Pinewood Middle School, Kentwood Public Schools 2000 to 2004; principal of Endeavor Elementary School, Kentwood Public Schools 1996 to 2005; summer school principal at East Kentwood High School 1999 to 2005; assistant principal and athletic director at Pinewood Elementary 1993 to 1996; Fruitport Middle School 1990 to 1993; teacher and coach West Ottawa High School 1987 to 1990; teacher and coach, Grant High School 1984 to 1897; teacher and coach, Muskegon Catholic Central High School, 1982 to 1984; and summer school teacher at Muskegon High School, 1984 to 1990, 1997 and 1998. During his second interview, Geerlings said that being an instructional leader means making sure every classroom has a teacher who cares that every student, every day learns and grows and feels important and feels like a real human being. “That’s the basis of it,” he said. Geerlings said he is prepared to be an instructional leader by working at all levels kindergarten through 12th grade. “I’ve been an elementary principal. I’ve been in the middle school for 10 years. I taught at the high school level,” he said. “So, I’ve walked the walk as a teacher and as a principal. I’ve been a superintendent. I’ve been a special ed director; I worked with those. [I have worked] with gifted and talented programs in my elementary in Kentwood, ESL (English as a second language), in Kentwood, and also through my master’s classes and classes that I’ve taken beyond my master’s working in areas to work with other educators and be a facilitator for those leaders. “I’m not going to be a person to spell out everything that every teacher is going to need to do,” said Geerlings. “There’s no way any one person can do that. You need to work with other educational leaders, with your principals and directors, develop a plan, set goals for instructional, for student achievement, and then make the plan from those goals and implement that in working with your teachers. “Instructional leadership is about making sure our kids have the material they need. Instructional leadership is making sure our staff has the materials and the time that they need organizing the day and making sure that everyone, that our sole purpose in being here is to educate students,” he said. “And, so, that is how I have worked to become an instruc- tional leader.” When asked how he would build and maintain trust with the staff, community and board, Geerlings said, “First of all, my style is one to be visible, be approachable. I think I’m a good listener, and I think as a leader in a district I make myself available to listen to the input from staff. My goal, going into this situation, was to find the best candidate who could bring to this job the expectations and the proven track record of not just acceptable performance but excellence. That’s all I was looking for — excellence. That’s all I wanted.” Treasurer Rob Longstreet “Speaking strictly of staff, building trust, one of the things, and, if I were fortunate enough to be offered this position, I have already spoken with Mona Shores about an implementation schedule, beyond starting before July 1,” he said. “I think it is crucial for this district not to have just the what-am-Igoing-to-do-the-90-days after I get, after the contract starts on July 1. What’s going to happen in that 90 days between now and then, in the months of March, April, May and June? I’m, and, what I’m going to do, as far as building trust with staff is, I would make it a point to set up a time to be in every building some time this spring to observe what’s going on, have some time for them to ask questions of me, either before or after school. “As far as the community, I would also try to do something similar,” he said. “One of the things that I would want to do this spring would be to have the opportunity for staff, excuse me, community to meet with me, set up some times for people to just walk in or set appointments, give some notice ahead of time of when I will be available and meet with community members.” Geerlings said he would also try to set up meetings with community and business leaders as well as state and national representatives. “Be out there, be available,” he said. “And, I think trust comes from following through on things. I’m not one to make a lot of promises early on until I’ve had the opportunity to see what’s going on. So, part of my initial plan is to observe what is going on, talk with you as the board, talk with community people, talk with staff, find out what people view as strengths, look at our test results, analyze those closely, work with administrative staff, work with any areas that need addressing, try to improve those that are good to make them great scores. “And, with the board, I would welcome the opportunity to meet with each of you, set up a time to just do, have, some one-on-one dialogue, or in small groups, whatever you would like,” said Geerlings, “hear your thoughts on what you see as the vision for this district. You are the people elected by the community to set direction and policies for the district, and I would want to find out where each of you stand on issues concerning the district.” Haas asked Geerlings asked how he intended to spend so much time in Hastings and still fulfill his current obligation to Mona Shores Public Schools. “I, as I told you last time, I am doing two jobs, and am real busy with them,” said Geerlings. “We do not have any current negotiations going on with any of our groups; that’s recently been completed. ... Our current superintendent is currently doing some of the duties that I did as assistant superintendent because there was no way, physically, to do both jobs. “Hopefully, in the site visit, you got a sense from my current staff, I made sure there were three people from the elementary where I’m working at right now,” he said. “I could have gone over there with a nasty attitude because I was given a couple extra duties and I could have, you know, kept my office, spent most of my time in the administration building and gone over to the elementary and kinda did that as a side job. But, when I was, when this opportunity was presented to me, I said, ‘There’s no way you can run an elementary building from the administration building;’ and, so I moved lock, stock and barrel over to the elementary. When we’ve had, when I’ve had district-level meetings they’ve been at the elementary, and I’ve, I believe, more than satisfactorily fulfilled my obligation and duties to that elementary. “... What I’m talking about this spring would be a day, every couple weeks, maybe even less frequently than that. Five, six to 10 times during the springtime,” said Geerlings. “Many of those things that I talked about would be after hours, where I would fulfill my duties during the day, school gets out, drive over here for some evening sessions that are community communications times. “So, we are, the elementary I’m at, I jumped in head first, have been working hand-in-hand with them and they are a great staff and they would try to help me provide some extra time because they are very supportive of me and, you know, fulfilling this professional dream of mine to be a superintendent,” he said. “I think because I went there, and I think my secretary in that building said it, in the talks with you, that she was worried I’m getting a guy that’s doing two jobs. I’m also getting a guy that this fall is going to be working 10, Big 10 football games. And, she said, to me, after visiting with you, hopefully she said the same thing to you, that that’s not been an area of concern at all. In fact, she’s been amazed at being able to do two multi-task, do two, three different things at a time. It certainly helps, having been an elementary principal years before. That experience allows me to kinda stream, you know, to evaluate situations a little more quickly than if it was my first time through elementary again. And, so, I believe that the board, the administration of Mona Shores, and my building staff would all support me doing that and I think I would adequately, more than adequately, do that.” In a telephone interview Wednesday morning, Geerlings said he has withdrawn as a candidate for the superintendent’s post in South Haven and Shelby, where he also has interviewed; and, he reiterated his plan to start integrating himself into Hastings Area Schools during the spring, including attending school board meetings starting with the next regular meeting, set for 7:30 Monday, March 19, in the lecture hall of Hastings High School, 520 W. South St.. “I want to do a lot of observation and learn about the school and community during the spring,” he said. “I will set up evening office hours so I can meet with community members and I plan to visit each building to get a better feel for Hastings.” That’s why he went to four of the varsity boys basketball games, including three district playoff games in Lakewood. “I wanted to go to events and meet a variety of different people and get to know more about Hastings,” he said. When asked why he did not attend the high school musical which was playing the day before the first district game, Geerlings said he only knew about the basketball game. “I wanted to go see a game, and they kept winning so I kept, kept coming,” he said. “One thing I pride myself on is being visible and approachable, attending events of all kinds. I pride myself on attending a variety of events — including academic and fine arts in addition to athletic.” During Wednesday’s telephone interview, he was asked to clarify if the money to purchase doughnuts, coffee mugs, cards and other items for what he calls doughnut diplomacy came from the school budget in Mona Shores or his own salary. “The doughnuts were never purchased with school money,” he said. “The school did buy mugs for staff appreciation, mugs and other small inexpensive things.; but, that was discontinued due to the financial situation in Mona Shores, much like you have here in Hastings and other districts around the state.” He said Mona Shores continues to send birthday cards and gift certificates to employees and staff. “I do know as a state we are moving toward the common core, state standards. I know that there will be a a heavy, more heavy emphasis on informational reading and writing, trying to get informational rather than — a lot of the early elementary literature is fictional — try to get them reading more informational texts and also with the writing. Todd Geerlings on improving English/language arts scores “It doesn’t cost the school anything but, maybe ink and paper,” he said. “The gift certificates were donated by a local business ...” When asked, during the second interview with the board, how he would support administrators and staff to keep the momentum of Hastings Area Schools’ drive to improve English and language arts scores, Geerlings said he would need to do more research than he has done so far and talk with administrators involved in the program so he could understand the nuts and bolts of the existing program. “Secondly, I would want to talk to the teachers, talk with the administrators involved in that, talk with the board, ‘Sounds like you are very satisfied with that,’ ‘What parts of this are you happy with?” he said. “I do know as a state we are moving toward the common core, state standards. I know that there will be a heavy, more heavy emphasis on informational reading and writing, trying to get informational rather than — a lot of the early elementary literature is fictional — try to get them reading more informational texts and also with the writing. “I know one of the books, we need to, we did a book study on this year in our district was Focus, which talks about elevating the essentials to radically improve student learning,” said Geerlings. “There are so many things that we try to do in schools. One of the things with the common core standards is we need to kinda simplify. We need to simplify what we teach and focus on that and make sure those essential skills are being taught and learned and that the concepts are understood. I would use those, the understanding of the common core, and the emphasis that that’s, that will put on liturgy, literature and reading and writing and use that along with the information gained from working with staff.” When asked what qualities, or areas of expertise, he would like to see in an assistant superintendent to complement his own areas of expertise, Geerlings said, “Let’s talk about the areas of expertise first of all. “I believe this question was asked in the site visit and the two board members that answered it gave different answers that pleased me that they didn’t see a glaring deficiency in one area,” he said. “One of them, I know, talked about the business area that she thought I would want somebody as a business director. And, while that is very technical area and I am not an accountant, I do believe I’ve got a firm understanding of that and what I’ve seen in the district, I believe there is quality people working with, on the business end. “I believe my leadership skills, my background knowledge of and my skill in sharing those things in the instructional and curriculum areas are solid,” said Geerlings. “But, I think that that area is so critical to what we do as a district that, for the area of expertise, I would want someone that’s total focus is on instruction, curriculum and assessment. Now, whether that’s, I mean, you can make, have, two or three people do that full-time in a district. Obviously finances are not where that is going to happen. But, we, I, certainly would want to have someone assisting me that their total focus, not that all of our focuses aren’t on curriculum, instruction assessment. You know, as I’ve talked about other duties of the superintendent, and duties you all are aware of, there’s things that get involved, and so that area is where I’d want someone focusing on.” Geerlings said, “Through my background in Kentwood and in Mona Shores, I’ve been immersed in technology. And, while I’m not the one to run the wiring and hook up all the different things, I do know ways to utilize technology to assist, encourage instruction, and I think, I don’t think, that we would need to have somebody to just take care of that. So, the area of expertise would be curriculum, instruction and assessment. “Qualities, I am an outgoing person. I like to be out and about around the district,” said Geerlings. “I would want someone that is similar to me in their commitment to education of our students and commitment beyond just the letters, reading, writing and ‘rithmatic, a commitment to developing students to be citizens in our world as they graduate. I think our community would expect that. I think, you know, our nation needs that at this point and we want to, I would want someone totally committed to, to education. I would want someone who’s going to work with the staff because if they don’t have good skills in communicating that curriculum, instruction and assessment, to staff, if there’s a disconnect there, much of the meaning gets lost, if they don’t trust, or don’t have faith in that person and so it would need to be someone that had the trust, or be able to build that trust, with the staff and I would think that would be someone who would, you know, be a key position in the district.” When asked about three specific cost-cutting measure that he has recommended or implemented, Geerlings said making cuts is never easy and never fun. “Three, one of them was last year after being involved in, and I shared, in pretty good detail last time, our budget-development process last year in which we cut $2.1 million,” he said. “And, one of the cuts was me going to an elementary school and taking on additional duties, not replacing an elementary principal that left. “Another cost reduction was contracting out our cleaning services,” he said. “That was very difficult. That was the first thing we did as a district, saved us over $800,000 per year. We did not reduce any cleaning, you know, there was no reduction in cleaning services, but we had $800,000 left to keep our class sizes where they were. “I’m very proud of the class sizes at — I’m almost embarrassed as I talk with other districts, what our class sizes are,” he said. “We just met this morning to talk about Schools of Choice for next year and Mona Shores, kindergartens are all under 20 students. Our first and second grades are all under 23. Our fourth and fifth are all under, well, my building has had one, my fourth and fifth grade are at 27 and 30 at fourth grade and then my fifth grade are both at 30. But, those are the only two of our four elementaries, two sections, in our four elementaries that are above 27, and so I’m very proud of that, making cuts to save classroom money, money for classrooms and for teachers and so on. “Another cut, we recently — this past summer — contracted out part of our transportation services,” said Geerlings. “I say part of, I was directed by the board to work at contracting that service out entirely. That saved us, I believe, around $400,000 that has allowed us to maintain student programs, the teaching programs. As we went into the negotiations, one of the things I realized and then shared with the association was that we received a hundred percent reimbursement for our special ed transportation; whereas all other transportation came out of our general fund. And, what we were able, we had, we had about 22 bus drivers and aides, Mona Shores is a much smaller district, geographically, than, than Hastings so we have fewer drivers and aides and so on. But, we were able to, for the most senior people, allow them to stay. They had their salary frozen, their benefits were reduced, as far as their insurance package, but their pay stayed the same for those that did special ed transportation. And, so, we worked out a compromise program that saved us the maximum amount we could save for the district but it also showed that we cared for our employees and were able to keep some of them at their almost the same level as far as their salary, or exactly the same level as their salary and similar, a little lower in their benefits. But, I think that is an example of working with the associations to come up with common-sense things. It wasn’t going to save us any more to reduce all bus drivers, and it ended up being a more tolerable decision than contracting out all of those.” Regarding Schools of Choice and how Hastings Area Schools could market the district, Geerlings said the option has been a budget saver for Mona Shores. “It [Schools of Choice] has allowed us to, as our natural enrollment, our natural resident enrollment was declining, stay about the same and brought in some, actually Mona Shores is the lowest, at the lowest funding level in the state,” he said. “Many of our neighboring districts have higher per-pupil grants, so as we receive them, we got more money for those students than we do for many of our own. I believe that quality schools, quality instruction is the basis for that, for drawing students to your district. “But, I am a much better administrator because I, and I’m also a better official because I’m an administrator; because you know when you discipline, when I was a middle school assistant principal, you know, for rest and relaxation after disciplining six, seventh and eight graders all week, I went and disciplined kids that weren’t following rules on the football field. And, so, you learn skills of being able to give bad news in a nice way ... “ Todd Geerlings Geerlings said he had noticed that Hastings was expanding its vocational education program in cooperation with Kellogg Community College. “What needs to happen in a district is you need to have quality programs, but you also need to communicate that,” he said. “Part of the reason I would want to, as soon as possible, get out in the community, I want to get with those businesses, and I know there are partners for each building in this district, I would get with those partners first. But, I would also get with many other business leaders to find out what they want for their workers and try to get some buy-in there.” Geerlings said he would also use local media to communicate with the community. “We, at Mona Shores, have produced some very nice fliers that summarize what our programs are and what opportunities are available to students and part of that marketing is to have people in your district tell you what your strengths are and then work with that and get that into the, into the hands of the community to get the good word out there. And, I don’t think that is just the superintendent’s job. I believe that the board needs to be part of communicating that to the community. And, as our community, the Hastings community, grows in their level of trust and of the school district that will naturally get out to their neighbors and friends in outlying, neighboring districts. And, so, we need quality programs and communicate that we’ve got quality programs, and we need to have the trust of the community, and I believe that trust is as important as some of the advertising.” When asked how he would develop and maintain a one-, three- or five- year improvement/strategic plan for the district, Geerlings said that before he could develop a plan, he would need to learn more about the district. “That is my hope for the 90 days prior to July 1. That is my hope to a much greater degree after July 1; If I were lucky enough to have this position,” he said. “I believe strategic planning, any time, most of the time that I’ve been involved with it, has been successful. We bring someone in from the outside whose not tied to the community and can, and wouldn’t be defensive if there are some comments that are negative, that would take true input and work with staff. And, that can be done, you know. I know what the budgets are here and I know they are not good, and I don’t, I think it can be done and we’re doing it right now in Mona Shores on a pretty low scale budget-wise; but, I think that is money well-spent because that’s going to be part of your communication of the School of Choice information and get things out. “A, you need to evaluate where you are at; B, you need to take a look at what is it we want to be and what is it we want to do? What are the things that are important to the Hastings community, then how are we going to do it?” he said. Geerlings said the development phase of the strategic planning process would take approximately three months. To maintain the program or plan, periodic reviews would be necessary, he said. Hart asked Geerlings what he thought was the optimal time of year to go through the planning process. “I believe summer. You can pick June or August. July is kind of, I try to, in school planning, try to keep that fairly free for family vacation and so on,” said Geerlings. “But, and I know we got staff that will be, but, if you let people know ahead of time there will be enough people that won’t have plans. You know, people tend to do some things either early in, or late in, the summer ... And, I think that is important enough to the district that if the board shows that that is important to them, and the superintendent shows that is important to them, him or her, and the administrators say, ‘This is what we’re all about. This is where we are headed.’ If there is a commitment to that, the teachers naturally buy into that because it affects them.” Geerlings said that when it comes to strategic plans, simpler is better. “But, you got to have buy-in from the staff and community.” See GEERLINGS, page 15 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 15, 2012 — Page 15 Sixty people receive free eye exams Katie Mika (left) and Christa Wetzel are on hand from the Michigan Department of Human Services to help people with additional resources. by David DeDecker Staff Writer Vision and hearing are two of the most critical senses for most humans. Yet, many people worldwide and in Barry County cannot afford to visit an eye doctor or a hearing specialist. Last week, Eye and ENT Specialists in Hastings hosted an event to help those not fortunate enough to afford health care. Partnering with Barry County United Way, ophthalmologist Kimberly Norris and staff saw 60 people in need of examinations for vision and hearing. Norris shut the office down for the day. One of her staff members came in on her day off just to help the event and didn’t want to be paid for her time. The day-long event is in it’s third year, but Norris said qualified patients are seen all year through the United Way. According to Norris, another 50 or 60 people were examined throughout 2011, for a total of 110 to 120 patients. “Dr. Norris came to us and said they knew there were a lot of people in our community that were in need of glasses, in need of hearing aides, and they wanted to help with that,” said United Way Director Lani Forbes. “This was Dr. Norris’ idea from the very beginning.” On hand for the day were representatives from the Barry County Commission on Aging, Michigan Department of Human Services and the United Way. “We really want to be sure we are providing the care to people who really need it,” said Norris. “We do eye exams and provide glasses if needed, and provide hearing exams and hearing aides, as needed. It’s all provided free to them.” United Way is able to arrange funding for some of the event costs from a Vision Service Plan program. “The United Way is able to get some funding for this, but the rest is our charitable donation,” said Norris. “But, it’s not about [money]. If I got nothing, I would do it exactly the same way. That’s how it got started — with nothing. “Like I tell everybody, it is my favorite day of the year. People are extremely appreciative,” she added. “Lani and I have worked on this for a long time. They [United Way] work on finding the people for us. She has found people who, literally, were not able to work because they couldn’t see to read. We give them glasses, and now they’re employable. It’s those types of things; it’s not just about making people happy because now they can see better, it’s about literally changing lives. People can’t drive or work because they can’t afford new glasses, which is just crazy in this world.” According to Forbes, one person did not get new glasses for 20 years because of the cost. The person was referred to the event by a DHS caseworker. Norris said that during the exams, they also find people who have a significant medical needs. Two of the patients they saw recently need laser eye surgery, which will be provided free. She said routine eye exams can uncover other medical conditions, especially in patients who have not have eye exams for several years. “We found a glaucoma patient — a disease which can cause the person to go blind,” she said. “We also found one patient who was having, possibly, stroke warning symptoms and we were able to refer them for further evaluation. Another patient needed antibiotic treatment. “Anybody that needed special testing and anybody that needs ongoing care, we assured them, on that day, as long as we can provide it, we will,” she said. “Like the glaucoma patient or the laser patients, ‘Please come back and don’t worry; it’s covered.’ I am not going to let anyone go blind because they can’t afford it, I’m just not going to let that happen. “I tell people if I ever win the lottery (I won’t since I never buy a ticket), I would still work, but I would do it for free,” said Norris. “That would be glorious.” For more information on becoming qualified for the free eye and ear exams, call Barry County United Way, 269-945-4010. GEERLINGS, continued from page 14 When asked how he would respond to the board asking him to do something he is opposed to, Geerlings said it would depend on his level of opposition. “If I was opposed to it, if I was morally opposed to it, I wouldn’t do it,” he said. “You know, I have kids in college and never really resigned from anything, but I don’t see anything at that level coming anyway. “But, beyond a moral opposition to it, I would try to understand why the board was pushing for that, try to understand, you know, in being an administrator, in being a teacher, anybody that works with people, you need to, there’s always opposing views ... ” he said. “Many times I have learned from that other point of view ... If I was really opposed, I would share my thoughts as to why I was opposed, be up front and honest, open ... I would try to spell it out as clearly as I could. The I’d say, ‘Share with me why you think we need to do this.’” Geerlings said the bottom line is, if the board tells him to do something, he is going to do it; but his bottom line is also whether it would help student learning. He was asked about the role of technology in education and roadblocks to its integration, other than funding. Geerlings talked about assessment tools used in Mona Shores elementary schools and how his portfolio showed tremendous student growth throughout the school year. “Technology will allow us to be a tool to do actual instruction,” he said. “Now, it needs a teacher to determine what programs to use. It needs a district curriculum program to decide what programs we want to use; but, there can be instruction going on, learning going on directly with the student and the computer, with the software that’s out there today. “We use it to do instruction and we use it to show our progress,” said Geerlings. “My secretary, every day, is entering results for different students. We do it for all students in January, September, and the spring, but for those who aren’t at benchmark we do it weekly, or bi-weekly ...” Roadblocks to the integration of technology in education, he said, include staff members who don’t see it as meaningful or progress with it. Geerlings was then asked what process he would use to improve the competency of an administrator who needs improvement and what corrective action would he take. “First of all, to know there was is an issue means you have had to spend time with that person,” he said. “Just as with teacher evaluations, we want our administrators in the classroom frequently. It’s not a twice-a-year deal. That needs to be a year-long process with multiple conversations, multiple observations, goal-setting, and the same thing is true with administrators. And, so, for the identification of an issue, it’s not something that is going to show up in a once- or twice-ayear meeting. It is something that I would want to have periodic meetings with the administrative staff, whether that be monthly, twice a month, something like that and do that as a group but also have some individual time with the administrative group either monthly, but with the business of the group that becomes difficult, every couple months, where you’re one-on-one working with an administrator.” Geerlings said he would look at how each building is being operated, if students were learning and whether, administrator and staff relations and administrator and parent and student relations. “I have done that,” he said. “As principal, I hired an assistant principal, and I had, and there were some concerns that became apparent and eventually led to a plan of improvement. I spent the good part of a week, over Christmas break one year, working on that plan of improvement. And, that plan did not just involve the principal directing them what to do; it involved the assistant principal giving feedback on what areas they want some improvement on. You need to identify the concern; but, then you need to ask what resources they need to meet your expectation ... There are lots of organizations that have programs developed for certain deficiencies, or certain areas, so if someone is deficient in Somebody that is going to fly off, or drive off, to go referee football games, he’s not going to be paying attention to our needs. From that perspective, I am disappointed.” Trustee Gene Haas those areas, there is training available.” Geerlings said he has never been involved in a situation where the person who needed improvement was happy about it. “You need to have the trust of that person,” he said. “I worked with that assistant principal and he is still an administrator in Kentwood and now has been in the district as an administrator for 15 to 18 years and has made progress, but it took a wake-up call.” He said the goal is always to help the teacher or administrator get better, not to get rid of him or her. Geerlings was asked what programs and services schools need to offer to prepare students to graduate with work skills necessary for the 21st century workplace; and what his current district was offering. tation in all our classes, so those classes, there’s not just one class of honors English, there’s eight classes of high-level English, or high-level math and as they get involved in those, those AP classes will work for those students that are heading on to college.” Geerlings said the Mona Shores district stresses AP courses for the college-bound students and for those who may be going into highly technical trade and vocational and career education for other students. Geerlings was asked about the necessary ingredients for a successful remediation program. “You need to identify what needs to be remediated, first of all,” said Geerlings. “So, there needs to be some method to identify that. Then, I think it is important, if we need students to be better readers, and better math students, rather than take them out of the regular math that they’re getting in their classroom, have them be in the classroom for the regular classroom instruction, then have them do the remediation during another part of the day.” Geerlings was asked what process he would use in determining whether a school should be closed as a cost-cutting measure. “There would be a lot of communication,” said Geerlings. “People do not like surprises. I think people understand that, as districts we have budgets that we need to follow to best educate our students. And, there would be public hearings. Uh, a chance for people to share their input, a chance for the district to present why, after taking that input, then looking at the budget and making a determination are we, in fact, going to need to do that.” He said such a process would start the fall “But, I think that that area is so critical to what we do as a district that, for the area of expertise, I would want someone that’s total focus is on instruction, curriculum and assessment. Now, whether that’s, I mean, you can make, have, two or three people do that full-time in a district. Obviously finances are not where that is going to happen. But, we, I, certainly would want to have someone assisting me that their total focus, not that all of our focuses aren’t on curriculum, instruction assessment. You know, as I’ve talked about other duties of the superintendent, and duties you all are aware of, there’s things that get involved, and so that area is where I’d want someone focusing on.” Todd Geerlings on instruction and curriculum “To be a 21st century employee, citizen, you need to be able to communicate,” he said. “You need to be able to write. You need to be able to read. And, you need to be able to speak. You need to have math computational skills. You need, I mean, we’re heading towards every student taking algebra, every student. We’re even going beyond that with geometry and algebra II for many of our students.” Geerlings said students need to learn a core set of reading and writing skills at the elementary level, which will be expanded in middle school and again in high school. “And you need to bring science and social studies along with that in the elementaries also,” he said. “But, learn to read at the early grades. Read to learn beyond that. And, then in the high school level, expand into areas that are of interest for the student. But, every student needs to be able to read, write, speak well, and be able to use technology.” Geerlings said Mona Shores has doubled the number of students that participate in Advanced Placement programs and the Washington Post has identified Mona Shores as a top school in the area of AP courses. “I think we had 250 different students involved in AP classes. We offer 19 different AP classes,” he said. “Are AP classes for everyone? Maybe not. But, what we really worked towards at our middle school is to increase the number of students involved in our honors program. We’ve raised the expec- prior to the proposed school closing. “People don’t like surprises,” he said. “People don’t like bad news either but they take bad news a lot better if they’ve had the opportunity to see the rationale behind it and have had time to give input ... I believe you have to give people a chance to give their input; but, I believe, in the end, there are tough decisions that have to be made and we’d do it as respectfully as possible, with as much communication as possible, but we got a budget we need to balance, and we got to do part of that, the reason we’re doing that, is so we can save money, so we can have a class size that makes sense for instruction and not be, you know, 35 to one class sizes.” Allard, the assistant superintendent and elementary principal of Galien Public Schools, withdrew his name March 8, after the site visits but before the second-round interviews after he accepted a position as the principal of Calhoun Community High School in Battle Creek. Hastings Area Schools Interim Superintendent Michelle Falcon withdrew her name from the pool of five candidates after the first round of interviews, citing family reasons. “I’ve been in [Hastings] and attended school events a few times and have been impressed with the friendliness of the community,” said Geerlings. “I look forward to working with the school board, the community and business leaders.” Nashville council president takes plea Dr. Kimberly Norris gives an eye exam. As he stood before Barry County District Court Judge Michael Schipper Tuesday, Nashville Village President Frank T. Dunham expressed regret for the charge of impaired driving and operating a vehicle while intoxicated he sustained after a traffic stop by Nashville Police Feb. 18. “I am regretful and sorry that I put myself in this position, your Honor,” said Dunham. According to the police report, Dunham’s Dodge pick-up crossed a double yellow line in Nashville, almost hitting the patrol vehicle. Dunham’s Breathalyzer on scene registered .184 percent. The subject was arrested for operating while intoxicated first offense and taken to the Barry County Jail. Two chemical breath tests were administered at the jail and registered .15 percent each. During his court appearance Tuesday, Dunham, 62, pleaded guilty to the impaired driving charge with the understanding the charge of operating while intoxicated would be dismissed. Schipper accepted the plea and then said, “There are certain positions you take in life, whether it be a teacher or policeman or a public position, where you have higher standards. You’re under the microscope a little more. You have to be careful. Maybe even with one drink you can’t drive — just to be safe. Make sense? “I don’t know you from Adam. So, I don’t know if you drink once every six months or drink three times a week, I don’t know. You know that, and you need to make sure you do what is necessary — whatever sort of treatment or counseling — to make sure you don’t put yourself at risk.” Schipper ordered Dunham to pay $1,000 in costs and fines, and suspended seven days of jail contingent upon successful completion of six months of probation. A substance abuse assessment was ordered and Dunham must comply with any recommended treatment or counseling. “That’s [jail time] kind of over your head if Help Wanted you mess up with probation,” said Schipper. “I do frequently, with drunk driving, throw people in jail ... if you can’t tow the line over probation then I think we will need to get your attention. “While you are on probation for the sixmonth time period, you are not to use any drugs that aren’t prescribed by a doctor. That includes medical marijuana. Also, during this six month time period — no drinking.” Dunham was to report to his probation officer upon leaving the court room. When companies have job openings, where do they post them? In the Reminder, of course. Find hundreds of job openings in the Classifieds every week. Pick up a copy and get ready to make your next big career move. 1351 N. Broadway (M-43) Hastings, MI 49058 269-945-9554 �Page 16 — Thursday, March 15, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Saxons’ rally to start second half just not enough by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Saxons’ last gasp came to an end with five minutes left in the third quarter Monday. Grand Rapids Christian’s varsity boys’ basketball team built a 17-point lead in the first half of its Class B Regional Semifinal with Hastings at Coopersville High School, and went on to a 51-29 win - earning a spot in Wednesday’s regional final against Godwin Heights. Hastings was locked in another defensive battle for half the first quarter. Through the first four minutes the Saxons and Eagles were tied 3-3. The Eagles though found their offense first, going on a 10-2 run to close out the period and they never trailed again. Christian’s lead grew to as many as 17 points. Threes by the Saxons’ Michael Eastman and Danny Buehler cut the Eagle lead to 26-16 at the half, then the Saxons came out and scored the first four points of the second half on buckets by seniors Buehler and Keith Garber. “We had a chance there to kind of get back into it there at 26-20, but missed a block out Hastings students cheer on their classmates during the Saxon varsity boys’ basketball team’s Class B Regional Semifinal against Grand Rapids Christian at Coopersville High School Monday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Hastings senior Keith Garber (right) drives around Grand Rapids Christian’s Austin Heemskerk during the second half of Monday’s Class B Regional Semifinal at Coopersville High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) KCC signs soccer players from Delton and Hastings on a free throw and a block out underneath and they can make a six point lead into 15 very quickly.” A flurry of offensive rebounds helped the Eagles’ Jordan Daley score back-to-back buckets in less than a minute. Christian then pushed the lead to 15 points on a three by Austin Heemskerk that was set-up by a Saxon turnover. “I think we had to execute so perfectly, and I’m sure it took a little bit of our energy to get back into it. Maybe that’s why our mind isn’t quite on the block-out. If you don’t block them out, they’ll kill you on the boards. They’re such a good team that you can’t afford to have any breakdowns like that,” Schils said. Heemskerk led the Eagles with 16 points, knocking down four threes. Christian had eight as a team, with Michael Spicer adding three threes for his nine points. The Eagles also got ten points from Drake Harris and 12 from Daley. “Penetration is their strength and we told them, except for a couple kids, that we were going to give the three up,” Schils said. “They shot the ball a little bit better than what we expected.” The Saxons had a tough time penetrating at the other end of the floor. “That’s a very good basketball team. They’re athletic at every single position. We knew they could make things difficult. They did. They crowd you, and it’s hard for us to go by them, although I thought Danny Buehler did a heck of a job tonight. He took care of the basketball pretty well,” Schils said. Buehler finished with a team-high 14 points. Hastings also got ten points from its other senior, Keith Garber, but the rest of the Saxon team had just five points. “I thought those two played two of their better games tonight,” Schils said of his two seniors. “The little we did score, I think they probably had the lion’s share of it. They were very aggressive. “I told them, we had a little bit higher expectations during our season and a lot of teams would have packed it in. For them to come back in and get a district title and battle the way they did tonight, I think that says a lot about our two seniors.” The Saxons end the season with an overall record of 13-11. Karate Club student third at tournament Delton Kellogg senior Alea Hammond (seated center) is joined by father Mark Hammond, Kellogg Community College Women’s Soccer head coach Barth Beasley, KCC assistant coach Charlie Pratt and mother Jodi Skinner as she signs her letter of intent to join the KCC program. Senior Danny Beuhler heads off the court for the final time for the Saxons, during the fourth quarter of his team’s 51-29 loss to Grand Rapids Christian in the Class B Regional Semifinals at Coopersville High School Monday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Andrew Maurer represented the YMCA Hastings Karate Club when he competed in the Great Lakes All Star Open Martial Arts Tournament, Feb. 18 Creston High School. He Maurer took third place in Novice Sparring with about 20 competitors in that particular division. Hastings senior Morganne Hubbell (seated center) is joined by Kellogg Community College head coach Barth Beasley (from left), mother Stephanie McWhinney, father Dan Hubbell and KCC assistant coach Charlie Pratt as she signs her letter of intent to join the KCC Women’s Soccer program. A couple of local high school soccer players will be continuing their playing days at Kellogg Community College after high school graduation. Delton Kellogg senior Alea Hammond and Hastings senior Morganne Hubbell signed letters of intent to join the KCC Women’s Soccer Team in January, and will being play with the team in the fall. Hammond has been a solid player for Delton Kellogg. She has over 20 career assists and helped her high school to a school-record 14 wins last season. “Alea is a hard worker and communicator on and off the field,” said Barth Beasley, Head Coach of the KCC Women’s Soccer team. “She is very driven to obtain her goals on and off the field which mirrors our goals in player development for all our student-athletes.” Hubbell has been a varsity player for Hastings for three years, leading her team in assists and ranking second in points. “Morganne has a gift for the game and is ready to make an immediate impact in our midfield next year,” said Beasley. “She sees the field extremely well and knows where to put the ball with great timing and pace.” The KCC Women's Soccer team was formed in the fall of 2011. The pair of local girls join over a dozen other incoming student-athletes that have signed letters of intent to join the program since Dec. 1, 2011. Delton sending 12 to MYWAY State Finals Delton is sending a dozen wrestlers to the MyWay State Tournament, which will be held March 23-25 at Kellogg Arena in Battle Creek. The group includes (front from left) Maverick Thomas (K), Seth Lebeck (second grade), Riley Roblyer (fifth grade), Blake Thomas (third grade), Cade Pate (fourth grade), (back) Brendon Baird (seventh grade), Cody Reed (eighth grade), Cameron Hudson (9th grade), Jacob Reed (eighth grade) and Brogan Smith (eighth grade). Missing from photo are state qualifiers Calob Montes (ninth grade) and Tyler Dempsey (12th grade). (Photo by Ryan Lindsey Photography) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 15, 2012 — Page 17 Saxon defense dominant in district final with TK Saxon guard Maxwell Clark (right) takes the ball away from Portland guard Justin Goodman during the second quarter of Wednesday’s Class B District Semifinal at Lakewood High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Saxon student-section started its “it’s all over,” chant with about a minute left to play in Friday’s Class B District Final at Lakewood High School Friday. Hastings head coach Don Schils, squatting in front of his bench gave a little smile. The students were right. Soon the benches began to empty. Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity boys’ basketball team doubled its total on the scoreboard in the fourth quarter against the Saxons, but after scoring just 15 points through the first three that wasn’t enough. Hastings bounced rival Thornapple Kellogg from the Class B state tournament with a 43-30 win Friday. “We talked about toughness and being tough, and Hastings got up on our best player and played him tough, sagged,” said Thornapple Kellogg head coach Mike Rynearson. “We couldn’t score.” The Saxons held all the Trojans in check, including star senior guard Greg Hamilton, who finished with a team-high nine points for TK. He’d averaged over 16 points per game against the Saxons in his previous six contests against them. The Trojans were 4-2 in those O-K Gold Conference contests against the Saxons over the last three seasons. “The kids bought in completely to what we wanted to get accomplished, but I will tell you and compliments to (Hamilton), we did stuff different than I’ve ever done anything before because he’s that type of player,” said Hastings head coach Don Schils, who’s teams have now won six district titles since he took over the program at the start of the 1993-94 season. “We clogged up the paint. Instead of jumping to the ball we jumped to the paint and ran anytime he got by Ian Beck, who did a phenomenal job. There was always going to be somebody there to pick him up.” Stopping Hamilton from getting in the The Saxons’ Luke Heide drives towards the basket during the second half of Friday’s district final against Thornapple Kellogg. (Photo by Brett Bremer) paint and scoring wasn’t the only focus for the Saxon defense. Hastings wanted to stop him from getting to the paint and dishing the ball off to fellow senior, center, Caden Francisco. “We normally don’t help on ball-side, and what we did any time you weren’t on the ball The Hastings’ varsity boys’ basketball team celebrates its Class B District Championship at Lakewood High School, after scoring a 43-30 win over rival Thornapple Kellogg in the district final Friday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) you were jumping to the paint and spying Hamilton. If he drove you had to step up and stop the drive,” said Saxon senior Keith Garber. Francisco finished with just five points. TK also got six points from senior guard Grant Allison, who knocked down a pair of threepointers. “That was my goal all season. What I wanted to accomplish was a district championship,” said Garber, who led the Saxons with 14 points. TK led 6-0 until Hastings got its first points in the final minutes of the opening quarter. TK carried a 6-5 lead into the second quarter, but Hastings would go on an 8-1 run in the final 5:08 of the first half to pull in front 15-9 at the break. “I also thought we did a good job after the first half of the first quarter of controlling it offensively too,” said Schils. “We took good shots. We were patient and we moved the ball. That was one of our best games of the year, there’s no doubt about it.” The Saxons then tacked on an 8-0 run in the first three minutes of the second half to up their lead to 23-9. TK had its chances to score during that stretch. A flurry of offensive rebounds kept providing opportunities to score. “After I watch game film I’d be willing to bet that we missed at least ten little put backs right around the bucket, at least ten,” Rynearson said. “In a ten-point game, that’s a big difference. It could have changed the outcome of the game if we’d have made some of those shots. “No matter what we would have drawn up against their tough D, we’re not going to get a better look than what we had there.” Once the lead was that large in the second half, the Saxons’ free throw shooting ability took over. Hastings was 14-of-14 at the foul line on the night. Garber knocked down two for the final points of the first half, then the Saxons went 12-of-12 in the fourth quarter to preserve the lead. Maxwell Clark added 12 points for the Saxons and Danny Buehler eight. TK ends the season with a record of 13-9. District Semifinals Points weren’t easy to come by for anyone in the Class B District Semifinal between the Saxons and Portland Wednesday. Hastings pulled out a 34-32 win over the Delton Kellogg guard Connor Wolschleger fires a shot over Schoolcraft’s Cam Schwartz Wednesday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) went on a 14-3 run to start the final period and take control of the ballgame. The Eagles closed out the win by going 14-of-19 at the free throw line in the fourth quarter. They were 25-of-32 at the line for the night. Luke Ryskamp led the Eagles with 23 points and 13 rebounds. Cam Schwartz chipped in 17 points and Evan Pratt had nine. Delton Kellogg got 22 points from Mitchell Wandell, who was 10-of-12 at the free throw line, and 17 points from Ryan Watson. Watson hit three threes, as did teammate Norm O’Meara who finished with nine points. Delton Kellogg guard Ryan Watson flies through a crowd of Schoolcraft defenders in the lane to get a shot off during Wednesday’s district semifinal at Schoolcraft High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Watson, Wandell and O’Meara were three Schoolcraft advanced to Friday’s district of seven seniors who played their final game final where it scored a 56-44 win over for the Panthers Wednesday. Kalamazoo Christian to advance to this The Panthers end the season with a 17-4 week’s regional tournament. overall record. The Saxons’ Alex Cherry (left) celebrates with teammate Eric Hart after Hart’s late steal helped their team secure a two-point win over Portland in the district semifinals Wednesday at Lakewood High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Raiders. The Saxons had a 21-14 lead at the half, but were held scoreless in the entire third quarter. Portland went on a 9-0 run during the third, then hit a three in the opening seconds of the fourth quarter to go up 26-21. “When we scored zero points in the third quarter against Portland and then they came out and hit a three, they still survived that, they came out fighting,” said Schils after his team’s district championship. “To me, that was sort of the turning point for us. They got another level of confidence from that. They were very focused in practice, and I said to them there’s something to be said for a team that doesn’t score in a quarter and you still pull the game out. There aren’t many teams that would do that. “We have to defend in Hastings, and we struggle a little bit offensively, but they bought in. I’m extremely happy for our two seniors. They have put in a tremendous amount of time in the offseason. It’s fun to see that when they’ve worked so hard.” The junior, Clark, got the comeback started for the Saxons, hitting three free throws and then a there-pointer in the next 25 seconds to put his team back in front 27-26. The teams traded turnovers, fouls, missed shots, and rebounds throughout the quarter, until Buehler finally gave the Saxons a fourpoint lead, 34-30, with a lay-up with 50 seconds to play. Portland did get within two on a bucket by Adam Goodman with 28.4 seconds left, then rebounded a Buehler miss at the free throw line with 14 seconds to play. Eric Hart ended the Raiders’ chances by stepping in front of a Raider pass in the post at the other end with two seconds left. “A lot of times the kids call our defense ‘coach Schils’ defense’,” Schils said. “I told See BASKETBALL, page 18 Schoolcraft scores its third win over the Delton boys The third time wasn’t the charm for the Panthers. Delton Kellogg’s varsity basketball team suffered just three losses during its 2011-12 run to a Kalamazoo Valley Association championship, one to Olivet and two to Schoolcraft. The defending Class C State Champions from Schoolcraft scored a third win over the Panthers Wednesday, topping them 67-54 in the Class C District Semifinals at Schoolcraft High School. The Panthers trailed just 38-36 heading into the fourth quarter, but the host Eagles Delton Kellogg’s Mitch Wandell (right) is held up by Schoolcraft’s Luke Ryskamp as he tries to drive to the basket during Wednesday’s Class C District Semifinal at Schoolcraft High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) �Page 18 — Thursday, March 15, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Vikes push TK to the limit in district semifinals by Brett Bremer Sports Editor For most of three quarters the Vikings did everything they needed to do to try and pull off an upset of Thornapple Kellogg in their Class B District Semifinal at Lakewood High School Wednesday. Lakewood’s varsity boys’ basketball team five threes in the first half. The Vikings got the ball inside to sophomore center Spencer Palmer, who attacked the basket and found ways to score points. Their defense limited Trojan stand-out Greg Hamilton, preventing him from penetrating to the basket. The Trojans though outscored the Vikings 19-10 to score a 50-45 win and a spot in Friday night’s district final against Hastings. Thornapple Kellogg led 2-0, but the Vikings went on a 10-0 run from there and didn’t trail again until midway through the fourth quarter. A couple of turnovers, the Trojan press which limited Lakewood’s ability to get its offensive sets running, a bunch of Trojan free throws combined to be the downfall for the Vikings in the end. TK took its first lead of the fourth quarter at 37-35 on a lay-up by Tommy Hamilton with 5:13 left to play, a bucket that was created by penetration from Tommy’s older brother Greg Hamilton. Greg Hamilton led all scorers with 22 points, but had just 13 through the first three quarters. He was 7-of-7 at the free throw line in the fourth quarter alone, and 12-of-13 on the night. “I think our game-plan was good, the way that I tried to contain with (Greg) Hamilton,” said Viking head coach Mark Farrell. “What happened in the fourth quarter was he slashed and we broke down and let him get to the middle of the court instead of corralling him to the outside. In the first half, we corralled him to the outside and he gave the ball up. I thought we knew how we needed to defend him, and their coach was like ‘that’s great defense.’” As a team, the Trojans were 13-of-17 from the free throw line in the fourth quarter to seal the win. They were 22-of-32 in the ballgame overall. Lakewood had a good night at the foul-line too, hitting 14-of-17 attempts. That kept the Vikings alive in the second half. The Vikings led 29-22 at the break, then upped the lead to 31-22 as Palmer scored the first bucket of the second half. That was the last field goal for the Vikings though until the final minute of the game. “With them pressing us, we really couldn’t get into an offense,” Farrell said. “It really kind of took us out of it. I thought we did a nice job of breaking the press. We didn’t really have that many turnovers. That’s great strides for us.” TK did pick up the intensity on its press in the second half. The Trojans’ lead grew to as many as seven points in the final minute of the fourth quarter. An offensive put-back by Jordan Cooper pulled the Vikings to within 48-43 with 24 seconds left, then after two missed foul shots at the other end Adam Barker scored for the Vikings to make it 48-45 with 13.5 seconds left to play. TK turned over the ensuing inbounds pass to give the Vikings’ one last gasp, but a three by David Parks missed its mark and the rebound game down in the hands of Trojan guard Grant Allison. “We looked like a team that hadn’t played in about ten days,” said TK head coach Mike Rynearson. “We really struggled against the match-up zone. We tried different things in practice and they really switched on the baseline well, and they cut off the middle well and they really pinched Greg (Hamilton) hard keeping him out of the paint. Tip your hat to them. They played great defense. “ TK also got seven points from senior center Caden Francisco, who battled foul-trouble much of the contest, and six points from Zac Lakewood’s David Parks (left) is pressured by Thornapple Kellogg’s Zac Comeau as he tries to drive towards the basket Wednesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Comeau. Jacob Buehler led Lakewood with 11 points, going 6-for-6 at the free throw line. Palmer finished with ten points. Parks had nine and Cooper eight. Parks also had a teamhigh six rebounds. Barker had six assists and two steals. “We have eight of them coming back,” said Farrell. “I told them, ‘remember what this feels like because it’s not a fun feeling. You don’t want to experience it again.’” Lakewood ends the season with an overall record of 3-18. BASKETBALL, continued from page 17 Thornapple Kellogg’s Luke Manning lays the ball up in front of Lakewood’s Adam Barker during Wednesday’s Class B District Semifinal at Lakewood High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) them the defense became their defense tonight. The last play was very indicative. Danny (Buehler) did a great job of keeping the kid in front of him, and we talk about fronting the post early and (Hart) did that and they threw us the ball.” Clark led the Saxons with 11 points, while Garber added nine and Luke Heide had seven. Portland got ten points from Goodman and five each from Logan Seal, Dylan Carroll and Jared Krausz. Hastings led the game 10-4 after the opening quarter, and pushed its lead to as many as nine points in the first half. The Saxons were hitting some outside shots in the first half, something they struggled with as the game wore on. After the Raiders rallied to go ahead late in the third quarter, it was an unconventional defense, at least for the Saxons, that got them back into it - a press. “Needless to say we don’t press a lot, but it obviously put them back on their heels and got us some turnovers and enough baskets to win I guess,” Schils said. Lions can’t play faster than Laingsburg in district semi 77566351 by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Lions wanted to use their speed to outrun, outhustle and outplay Laingsburg in the Class C District Semifinals at Laingsburg High School Wednesday. That’s what the Maple Valley varsity boys’ basketball team did in topping Saranac in the opening round there Monday. It didn’t take long to see that there was a problem though. The Wolfpack could match Maple Valley’s speed. “They outshustled us down the court, kind of using our own strength against us,” said Maple Valley head coach Chris Ewing. The Wolfpack earned a spot in Friday’s district final, against undefeated PewamoWestphalia, by topping the Lions 68-43 Wednesday. The Lions were outscored 39-14 in the second and third quarters combined. The lead was 33-19 at the half, and then the Wolfpack hit its first five field goal attempts of the second half. Laingsburg got 11 points each from Jacob Ferland and Shaun McKinney, ten from Lukas Genther and nine from Jacob Zielinski. The Lions’ 15 turnovers helped the Wolfpack get some easy lay-ups throughout the night. On the other end, the Lions had a tough time getting good shots. “They just played a very tough half-court man to man defense all game,” Ewing said. “We just had a hard time going against it. We couldn’t beat it, and they played a lot smarter than we did.” Garrett Reid and Garrett Miller had eight points each for Maple Valley, while Tyler Hickey added six. Garret Mater had five assists and six rebounds in the loss, while teammates Micah Bromley and Kyle Spencer had six rebound each as well. “Garrett Reid, playing his last game, he just put everything he had out onto the court,” Ewing said. “He and Kyle Spencer both did.” Undefeated Pewamo-Westphalia knocked off Laingsburg 40-33 in the district final Friday night. Call anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads 269-945-9554 � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-03-22.pdf ff3df8a7c6d626ac305a590176fa8f51 PDF Text Text HHS Science Olympiad heading to state finals Program already preparing students for future careers Winter All-County athletes announced See Story on Page 2 See Editorial on Page 4 See Stories on Pages 16 & 17 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 12 NEWS BRIEFS ‘His Last Days’ concert is Saturday The Sts. Cyril and Methodious Church Choir will be presenting Dallas Holm’s His Last Days for the ninth consecutive year Saturday, March 24, at 7 p.m. This is a story in song about the last days of Christ here on Earth and will be performed by the choir of 21 musicians. The role of Jesus will again be played by Joe Maurer. Other soloists include Camille Irvine, Martha LaVoie, Suzy Byville, Doug Hart and Mike Cutlip. The choir will be accompanied by guitarist Paul Hauschild and pianist Gerry Orszula and is under the direction of Nate LaVoie. More information is available by calling LaVoie, 616-460-6415. History of pharmaceuticals is topic of next ILR program Many common prescriptions taken for granted today have a long history of development from their concept to sale. Steve Humphrey, former industry scientist, will explain this process and share some of the key elements that typically go into marketing decisions at a special Institute for Learning in Retirement program Monday, March 26, from noon to 2 p.m. The program will be at the Kellogg Community College Fehsenfeld Center on West Gun Lake Road. A box lunch is included with the program. For fee information and registration, call ILR Coordinator Connie Dawe at 269 948 9500, ext. 2803. All events are open to both members and non-members age 50 or over. There are no prerequisites for participation; only a curiosity and wish to continue learning about a topic. Spring tree orders due tomorrow Orders for the Barry Conservation District’s Spring Tree Sale should be postmarked by Friday, March 23, in order to assure selections are in stock. Orders also may be placed at the district office, 1611 S. Hanover, Suite 105 (the Secretary of State building) between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., through Friday. Orders will still be accepted by mail or at the office after March 23, but the full selection of trees cannot be guaranteed. The spring pickup will be Friday, April 13, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday, April 14, from 9 a.m. to noon at Historic Charlton Park. For more information about orders or the sale, call 269-948-8056. BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 Hastings High School announces top 10 by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Monday, Hastings High School Principal Tim Johnston introduced the top 10 scholars of the Class of 2012 to the Hastings Area Schools Board of Education. “I can tell you that these students are not only academically talented, they are leaders in our buildings,” said Johnston. “They are leaders in our clubs, organizations. They are in band, choir, our athletic fields, and they’re on our athletic courts.” Johnston said the students had grade point averages ranging from 3.95 to more than 4.2. The class of 2012 top 10, in alphabetical order includes: Megan Denny, daughter of Jeffrey and Barbara Denny of Hastings. Academically, Denny has been a member of the National Honor Society for two years and has received her academic letter and pin. She participated in band and steel drum band for four years. Denny’s extracurricular activities include Key Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Students Against Destructive Decisions, Tees Against Tobacco Use, Quiz Bowl, winter musical, fall play, ski club, Science Olympiad, Youth Leadership Summit, tutor- See TOP 10, continued on pg. 10 The Hastings High School Class of 2012 Academic Top 10 students are (front row, from left) Danielle Sherman, Katy Kesler, Megan Denny, Hannah Smith, Sarah Thornburgh, Jena Nedbalek, (back row) Dalten White, Sarah Sleevi, Joey Longstreet and Keith Garber. Delton Rotary welcomes Board approves $112,000 contract with Geerlings international leader by David DeDecker Staff Writer Rotarians from around the district gathered in Delton March 15 to hear guest speaker Rotary International Past President Rick King. The gathering took place at Faith United Methodist Church, and the Delton Kellogg High School Choir entertained before lunch. Clubs from Delton, Hastings, Charlotte, Gull Lake, Kalamazoo, Lansing, Middleville and Plainwell were represented. Dignitaries such as Rotary Michigan Gov. Paul McNamara, Assistant Gov. Dean Beguhl, Assistant Gov.-Elect Gerald Stein of Middleville, and Past District Gov. Bill Dimond were also in attendance. According to King’s official biography, he is the senior partner in the California law firm King, King & King. He earned undergraduate and law degrees from the University of California at Berkeley where he is a member of the California Club and the Order of the Golden Bear. He taught law at Brigham Young University. He is a distinguished military graduate of the University of California and served as captain in the U.S. Military Intelligence. King has addressed Rotary International conventions, assemblies, institutes, seminars, conferences and Rotary clubs in every state in the U.S. and 100 countries. King started his presentation in Delton with the song “On a Wonderful Day Like Today.” He explained that when starting his law practice in California, he was also singing three shows a night in Las Vegas as See ROTARY, page 9 Rotary International Past President Rick King speaks to members of eight area Rotary clubs gathered in Delton. Siren testing begins April 7 Although the tornado siren in Hastings already was put to the test Monday, March 12, when tornado warnings were issued for Barry County, the Hastings Fire Department will still begin its scheduled monthly testing April 7 at 1 p.m. Testing will continue at the same time the first Saturday of every month through September. If a tornado watch or warning has been issued for the area on a scheduled Saturday, the siren will not be tested. PRICE 75¢ Thursday, March 22, 2012 The Delton Kellogg High School Choir entertains area Rotarians as they network before lunch. by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer The Hastings Board of Education Monday approved a two-year contract with Mona Shores assistant superintendent and elementary school principal and Big 10 referee Todd Geerlings. The contract includes an annual a salary of $112,850. According to the contract, the board retains the right to increase Geerlings’ salary during the term of the contract; job performance and accomplishments are to be factors in determining adjustment to his compensation. The contract was approved by a 6-1 vote, with Trustee Gene Haas dissenting. “Mr. Geerlings, I think he would like to have a three-year contract,” said Trustee Dan Patton, after making the motion to approve the contract as presented. “But, the circumstances as they have been in the past, the consensus of the personnel committee — we looked at doing two years only. I would suggest that at the end of the first year, after we have completed an evaluation of Mr. Geerlings, if the board’s happy, if the community’s happy, and we continue to move Hastings forward in the direction we need to be moving — as many people know I am here as part of a long-term commitment to turn things around, I think Mr. Geerlings is going to be a part of that process of moving us forward and moving us in the right direction. I think at the end of that first year, if we can get done, and he has a successful evaluation, we would look to potentially add that third year in at the end of the first year.” Before the board moved on to the action items on its agenda, it heard public comments on the search from three members of the community. Although board policy states that all comments are to be directed to the board and are not to be addressed to individuals or other members of the audience, Hastings High School Principal Tim Johnston — who was asked to fill in for the absent interim superintendent Michelle Falcon — and board president Kevin Beck (who normally repeats the board policy at each meeting) allowed retired Hastings elementary school teacher Cindy Wilcox to direct comments to the reporter from the Hastings Banner. Looking directly at the reporter, she said, “I am here to express my disappointment that Fred Jacobs’ Banner did not represent what I felt was a more positive review, overview of the process of the superintendent’s selection. “I felt this is a time to be positive with the selection,” she said. “It’s a hard decision; and I was just really disappointed that there was not more positive aspects of this man reported in the paper ... I just wanted to express my opinion.” Beck thanked Wilcox for her support. Resident Lois Bowers said she was alarmed to read that only two school board members attended the site visits. “Why did only two attend? And, why was there no high school administration? No middle school or elementary teacher went on the visit?” she said. “And, food for thought: do we really have money for an assistant superintendent?” Beck replied that the personnel committee had determined the number of board members to attend the site visits. “That is a big decision to make to have just two of you show up,” said resident Don Bowers. Previously during public comments, Don Bowers had expressed concern over the district’s current financial situation and said, “In the past, you had two excellent superintendents (Dick Guenther and Carl Schoessel) that spent the hours to keep you involved and tell you what’s going on ... You’ve found out now what happens when you have a superintendent that does not do that. I am appalled that we still have board members on here and a business manager that allows us to get in a position and have not resigned and left the board and left the school. From my standpoint, that is not a good example of what we want here at Hastings schools.” Beck said that based on what he had heard, the superintendent search was very well done. “The process was a process that I think the entire board bought into; and, it was suggested or run by Jeff Jennette [Barry Intermediate School District superintendent] and headed up, from the board standpoint, by Donna [Garrison, board secretary],” he said. “... Very positive, except for a comment or two tonight — disappointment — but, very positive comments on how the search was run ... So, this was kind of a culmination of a lot of work ... everyone on the board included ... We spent a lot of time on site visits, looking through resumes, asking questions — Plus behind the scenes, especially the personnel committee — especially Donna... and Jeff Jenette also.” “I just would just like to say I felt, as we were going through the contract with Mr. Geerlings, his willingness to do what was best for our district, even though it meant some things he’s been having, is going without,” said Trustee Patricia Endsley, “He was truly looking at what we can do. I was impressed with — a couple of times he See CONTRACT, page 5 �Page 2 — Thursday, March 22, 2012 — The Hastings Banner HHS Science Olympiad team heading to state finals Seniors Jenna Nedbalek (left), Joey Longstreet and Sarah Thornburgh worked together to win the event called Protein Modeling. Juniors Kaitlin Allan and Ian Beck finish first place in the remote sensing event. The luck of the Irish was with the Hastings Saxons on St. Patrick’s Day as the high school’s Science Olympiad team successfully defended it’s regional championship win at Western Michigan University. Hastings High School Science Olympiad Students persevered over perennial challengers Portage Central and Hamilton high Sarah Thornburgh (left) and Abby Campbell win first place in the thermodynamics event. Reporting History for the Future in 6 Barry County Area Newspapers • Lakewood News • Maple Valley News • Middleville-Caledonia Sun & News • Reminder • Hastings Banner Over 64,000 Papers Distributed Every Week! 1351 N. M-43 Highway • P.O. Box 188 Hastings, MI 49058 Phone (269) 945-9554 • Fax (269) 945-5192 Earning the first-place trophy Saturday at Western Michigan University are Hastings High School Science Olympiad competitors (front row, from left) Dakota Gaskill, Alex Slater, Sarah Thornburgh, Megan Denny, Joey Longstreet, Jenna Nedbalek, Braxton Prill, (second row) Coach Marty Buehler, Marshall Cherry, Ashley Weinbrecht, Alie Porter, Ian Beck, Tom Peurach, Kelsi Harden, Kaitlin Allan, Avery Lomas, Naomi VanDien, Abby Campbell (back) Alicia Leonard, Alex Cherry and Peter Beck. Freshmen Marshall Cherry and Braxton Prill win first place in the robot arm competition. schools to repeat as champions of the region. “Everyone likes the underdog success story. We lost to both of these teams earlier this season and we had to make up a lot of ground,” said Hastings Science Olympiad Coach Marty Buehler. “After the losses, I challenged their [Hastings students’] pride a bit, basically daring them to defend their title, and boy did they.” The Saxons were beaten handily by the Portage and Hamilton teams at the Thornapple Kellogg Invitational Feb. 11, then improved greatly, he said, at the Allendale meet Feb. 25 and capped off the comeback with a nail-biting win by just one point over second place Portage Central this past Saturday. “I just found out that not only did we just win by one point, but one event was a tie, and it came down to a tie-breaker to get the win,” Buehler said Monday afternoon. “If we did not get that tie-breaker, we would have lost by one.” The push back to the top spot was anchored with solid performances by Saxon seniors, Megan Denny, Joey Longstreet, Jenna Nedbalek and Sarah Thornburgh. “But it was a whole team effort,” he said, adding that every team member won at least one medal in the 23- event competition. Medals signifying gold, silver and bronze are given for first, second and third place, respectively, while ribbons are awarded for fourth through sixth place. Tom Peurach, Braxton Prill, Kaitlin Allan, brothers Alex and Marshall Cherry, brothers Ian and Peter Beck, Alie Porter, Abby Campbell and Naomi VanDien all had finishes that were in the top three spots of their respective events. Hastings finished the day with 42 medals, 12 ribbons, one regional champion trophy and an invitation to the state finals April 28 at Michigan State University. Winning medals in their respective events from Hastings High School were: Disease Detective: Megan Denny and Jenna Nedbalek, third place. Dynamic Planet: Kaitlin Allan and Abby Campbell, third place. Experimental Design: Megan Denny, Joey Longstreet and Jenna Nedbalek, first place. Forensics: Megan Denny and Kelsi Harden, third place. Forestry: Alex Cherry and Marshall Cherry, third place. Gravity vehicle: Sarah Thornburgh and Naomi VanDien, third place. Helicopter: Tom Peurach and Braxton Prill, first place. Microbe Mission: Megan Denny and Jenna Nedbalek, third place. Optics: Alex Cherry and Jenna Nedbalek, first place. Protein modeling: Joey Longstreet, Jenna Nedbalek and Sarah Thornburgh, first place. Remote sensing: Kaitlin Allan and Ian Beck, first place. Robot arm: Braxton Prill and Marshall Cherry, first place. Rocks and minerals: Kelsi Harden and Naomi VanDien, second place. Sounds of Music: Marshall Cherry and Megan Denny, first place. Technical problem solving: Ian Beck and Joey Longstreet, second place. Thermodynamics: Abby Campbell and Sarah Thornburgh, first place. Water quality: Peter Beck and Alie Porter, third place. Write it – Do it: Megan Denny and Joey Longstreet, third place. “I am proud of what these kids did,” said Buehler. “They don’t have this, as a class like some schools do, they had to gut it out on their own and put in the time necessary to be excellent. We discussed how important it was for them to represent their school, show the people that donated to [the Hastings Education Enrichment Foundation] that their money made a difference, hold up the traditions of excellence in our program, take the torch and keep it lit, and to sacrifice for each other, right here and right now. It isn’t a thing of the past. That is exactly what they demonstrated at WMU. Teamwork is all about pride, character and responsibility. They have that in Senior Megan Denny wins medals in six out of six events, the most possible. Denny and her event partners won medals in Experimental Design (first), Write It – Do It (third), forensics (third), Disease Detective (third), Microbe Mission (third) and Sounds of Music (first). spades. Oh yeah — and they might have even learned a little bit about science along the way, too.” Among the 11 high school teams competing in Region 10 Saturday, five of the teams are Class A-sized schools, five are Class B, and one is Class C, he said.. The top three teams from Region 10 — Hastings, Portage Central and Hamilton — will move on to the state finals. Quoting from the national website (www.soinc.org), Buehler said, “Science Olympiad competitions are like academic track meets, consisting of a series of 23 team events in each division (Division B is middle school; Division C is high school). Each year, a portion of the events are rotated to reflect the ever-changing nature of genetics, earth science, chemistry, anatomy, physics, geology, mechanical engineering and technology. By combining events from all disciplines, Science Olympiad encourages a wide crosssection of students to get involved. Emphasis is placed on active, hands-on group participation. Through Science Olympiad, students, teachers, parents, principals and business leaders bond together and work toward a shared goal. “Teamwork is a required skill in most scientific careers today, and Science Olympiad encourages group learning by designing events that forge alliances.’ Hastings Science Olympiad is sponsored by the Hastings Education Enrichment Foundation. Tom Peurach steadies the bucket while his partner Braxton Prill pulls a lever, slowly releasing 33 pounds of sand supported by a wooden tower that weighs less than a pencil. The pair took first place in the tower event. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 22, 2012 — Page 3 Hastings celebrates St. Patrick’s Day St. Patrick likely smiled upon the city of Hastings Friday when the seventh annual St. Patrick’s Day parade stepped off at 4 p.m. The skies were blue and the weather was bonny as the Merry Merchants of South Jefferson Street hosted the “Biggest Little Parade.” Led by Grand Marshal Jeff VanAman, the parade wended its way down Jefferson Street to the delight of paradegoers, even those who were only Irish for the day. Photos by WHO?????? Local Girl Scouts ride a float in Friday’s parade. What is a local parade without a tractor? John Deere tractors, with their signature bright green paint, fit into the Irish theme. Students from St. Rose School participate in the St. Patrick’s Day parade. Here, Alex Zimmerman dresses as St. Patrick for the event. The Murphy clan of Hastings takes part in its seventh Hastings St. Patrick’s Day parade. Tony LaJoye and Mike Smith from Bosley Pharmacy provide musical entertainment along the parade route. Hastings City Banks’ entry in the St. Patrick’s Day parade includes a pony with a special animal-safe dye-job. Barry County Transit’s trolley becomes the Shamrock Trolley for the parade. Grand Marshal Jeff VanAman waves to the crowds lining South Jefferson Street during the seventh annual St. Patrick’s Day parade. Jan and Larry Neil show pride in their Irish heritage. Rose and Madison Vickery accept a string of festive beads from one of the parade participants. These little girls enjoy tooling a little car down Jefferson Street. �Page 4 — Thursday, March 22, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Program is already preparing students for future careers J-Ad Graphics photographer Perry Hardin captured this flash of lightning early Thursday morning, March 15. The photo was taken from the east side of Clear Lake, south of Dowling. We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom, Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Do you know? Do you recognize these men or know why this photo was taken? They appear to be looking at a broken foundation, presumably in early spring. The man furthest from the camera is wearing eyeglasses; the one closest is not wearing glasses but has an eyeglasses case in his shirt pocket. Had they found the former site of a significant structure? Were they checking the proposed location of a new building or road? What can you tell us about this photo? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@j-adgraphics.com, or call 269-9459554. The three men looking at Masons documents in last week’s photo were identified collectively by several readers as (from left) Roger Wallace, Ed Tudor and George Goodyear. Tudor’s son-in-law Lynn Have you Donovan said Tudor, who died in 1993, served as secretary of the Hastings Masons for 50 years. The photo was subsequently found to have been run in the Banner in January 1953, marking the 100th anniversary of the group. The three were looking at the charter, which hung on the wall next to the secretary’s desk. met? A smiling face at the Barry County Clerk’s office, Rebecca Quist was recommended as a Bright Light for her knowledgeable and helpful demeanor in a complicated and stressful career. In addition to helping people as deputy clerk, Quist is a wife, mother and college student. She is also a fan of movies and science fiction. Age: 36-ish Occupation: Barry County Deputy Clerk Who will win the March Madness Tournament?: Michigan State, hands down. I am going to school there, and bleed green. Favorite movie: Anything with Bob Hope and Bing Crosby. They make me happy and laugh. Modern fictional character you would most like to meet: Sheldon Cooper from the television show ‘The Big Bang Theory.’ Favorite song: “It’s Your Love” by Tim McGraw and Faith Hill. It reminds me of my wonderfully awesome husband. Favorite book: The Bible. Person you would most like to meet (past or present): Ronald Reagan. He was my favorite president. Best advice ever received: Don’t worry, it’s all in God’s plan. Dream vacation: Italy, because it has beautiful scenery and architecture, plus wonderful food, or the Hockey Hall of Fame in Canada. I love hockey and would enjoy looking at the greatest players of the game and their accomplishments, as well as the history of the game.” Rebecca Quist Each week, The Banner profiles a person from the community working behind the scenes whose efforts may not make headlines, but whose dedication makes Barry County shine. We’ll provide a quick peek each week at some of Barry County’s stars. Do you know someone who should be featured? Send information to Newsroom, Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@jadgraphics.com. Growing up and working in a family low parliamentary procedure. Their prebusiness, I’ve always been interested and sentations are delivered from memory in passionate about preparing young people front of an audience that includes a panel for the world of work. In recent years, of judges, who then question the particigovernment leaders have put a great deal pants afterward. And the leadership contests — or of emphasis on attending college after high school, which is laudable. But in career development events as they are reality, nearly 50 percent of the county’s called — are just a small part of FFA. The National FFA Organization is conhigh school graduates don’t attend colsidered the largest youth organization in lege after graduation. Recently, I’ve been part of a local the world, making a positive difference in the lives of stugroup that has prodents by developing moted career educatheir potential for tion for high school leadership, personal students, such as the growth and career Gilmore Garage success through Works program at agricultural educathe Gilmore Car tion. According to a Museum, where recent report, FFA twice a week a has more than small group of high 520,000 members school students across the nation. attend a two-hour The organization hands-on training was founded by a learning not only group of young about automobile farmers back in restoration, time 1928. The FFA mismanagement, sion “is to prepare responsibility, comfuture generations munication and for the challenges of more. In the 21st feeding a growing Century Health population throughCourse, students out the world. FFA take college-level continues today to courses plus an prepare the next internship at generation to rise up Pennock Hospital. to meet the chalIn the newest prolenges by helping its gram, students are members to develop enrolled in a college-level welding Ethan Haywood, a sophomore their own unique program held at from Hastings High School, main- talents and explore their interests in a Hastings High tains a calm demeanor as he delivbroad range of School twice a ers an eight-minute memorized career pathways. week. These are just a speech to a crowd of 1,500 FFA They remain today few of the career members, families, alumni in the the Future Farmers training programs finals of the prepared public speak- of America, but they are also our nation’s we hope to be able ing contest March 8. future biologist, to make available for high school students from around the chemists, veterinarians, engineers, farmers and entrepreneurs too.” county. Agriculture is the second largest indusAnother program offered to area high and middle school students, exposing try in the state of Michigan. And though them numerous career development pro- raising animals and crops may be the grams, is often overlooked even though it most obvious career in the industry, the has been here for decades: FFA. Agriculture Council of America reports Recently, members of the Hastings FFA that more than 200 careers are related to chapter attended the 84th annual state agriculture. Whether a student intends to convention at Michigan State University. pursue a career in construction, manageMore than 1,500 FFA members in over ment, research, food services, engineer100 different chapters from across the ing, technology, mechanics, or numerous others — and whether that chosen field is state took part in the annual event. Students from across the state compet- related to agriculture or another sector — ed at district and regional leadership con- the skills learned through FFA will benetests in order to qualify for the state level. fit the members long after high school. Many youths who recently competed From serving as chapter delegates, to public speaking, performing with the in the leadership contests were affiliated FFA band or FFA choir, conducting busi- with FFA programs at regional or county ness sessions and working toward farm vocational education centers. Since development, urban and rural teens took Hastings and other local schools do not have such a center, we should build on part in a variety of events. Most people understandably think of and support the long-standing programs FFA as a farm program, since it original- already offered through FFA. As we look ly was called Future Farmers of America. over a list of local programs available to While agriculture issues may be at the our young people, FFA and the ag science heart of every discussion, speech or dis- area is another possible program that can play, members of FFA gain far more add so much value to a student’s overall experience and learn more than they pos- success – not just because of their focus sibly could in the traditional school day. on agriculture, but because of the depth They gain confidence through public and quality of the programs made availspeaking or conducting a mock job inter- able to local students. view. They use their creativity writing scripts or skits for the demonstration or agricultural issues competitions, respecFred Jacobs, tively. They learn about civics and teamvice president J-Ad Graphics work while they conduct meetings or fol- What do you think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website, www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. Don’t forget to leave an opinion or comment. Last week’s question: Meteorologist Bill Steffen of WOOD-TV says next week will be warmer in Hastings than it will be in Phoenix, Ariz. Are you in favor of an early spring or do you miss winter? 33% I miss winter 67% Let’s heat ’er up For this week: For this week: A Detroit-area woman died this week after dueling with her husband in a road-rage incident. Have you ever encountered road rage? q Yes q No �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 22, 2012 — Page 5 CONTRACT, continued from page 1 Be informed before donating To the editor: I am writing to you and your subscribers to urge you to be informed before making contributions to charities; in this case the Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Komen affiliates have a long history of giving grants to Planned Parenthood. In fiscal year 2009, Susan G. Komen affiliates gave over $730,000 to Planned Parenthood affiliates. From 2004-2009 Komen affiliates gave approximately $3.3 million in grants to Planned Parenthood. Komen defends these grants by saying they are only used for breast cancer screenings. If that is the case, it still remains that these grants enable Planned Parenthood to promote and perform more abortions, as grant money is fungible. On its “risks and prevention” page Komen Foundation lists “abortion” first as one of the “facts that do not increase breast cancer risk.” It does this in spite of at least 30 studies showing an increased risk of breast cancer later in life for women who have had an abortion. Approximately one in four abortions in the United States are performed in Planned Parenthood facilities. Planned Parenthood commits approximately 390 abortions to each adoption referral. Planned Parenthood operates as a “non-profit” organization, but consistently takes in more revenues than it spends. Its 2009-2010 annual report nationally showed a profit (“excess revenues over expenses”) of $18.5 million with an annual revenue of $1 billion. This report also showed that Planned Parenthood received more than $487 million in taxpayer funds that year. At the end of January, Komen revised its grant criteria which would have eliminated Planned Parenthood from being eligible for funding but, recently, Susan G. Komen announced that Planned Parenthood Federation of American and its affiliates will remain eligible for grant funding. I find this to be a huge conflict of interest, and would ask you to reconsider supporting Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Our current national leader has consistently supported taxpayer funding for abortions – even world-wide, despite protests from the American people. I would urge you to consider this in your decision of the person you support in our national elections. Anita Barcroft, Hastings Everyone invited to join first Barry County Tree Planting Day To the editor: As citizens of Barry County, we appreciate the natural beauty and resources this area has to offer. Any place in Barry County — from beautiful rivers and trout streams, to hardwood forests, to the very streets where you and I live — there is one thing that leaves a silent but profound mark on all of us: trees. Trees are incredibly important to the ecosystem, wildlife, economy and natural beauty of Barry County. Habitat, buffers to noise and air pollution, fuel, food, water filtration, aesthetic beauty and erosion control are just a few of the incredibly important and essential functions that trees carry out. In a quite literal sense, trees are one of the things that hold the earth together. That’s why I would like to ask you to take part in the first annual Barry County Tree Planting Day Sunday, April 22. United with local government and businesses, this event will be organized to plant native trees in parks, watersheds and private properties of participating individuals. Several varieties of native trees will be available from the Barry Conservation District, and individuals wishing to participate may purchase trees from the district or any local tree nurseries or other reputable organizations. The goal is to raise volunteers to plant trees in appointed public areas and to have individuals pledge to plant native trees on their own properties. You can become involved by planting trees on your own private property or by donating your time planting trees in public areas. If you are planting trees on your own property, send an email to ruskiyonk@hotmail.com describing the type and number of trees planted so that we have an idea of the quantity of trees planted this year. If you have any questions or concerns, or if you wish to be a volunteer, send an email to the above address. Also see the event Facebook page by searching for “Barry County Tree Planting Day.” By planting native trees, I believe that Barry County will become a more beautiful and healthier place to be. Imagine the pride in seeing thousands of trees planted and watching them grow and be appreciated by generations to come. And imagine yourself being a part of that vision. Please consider taking part in this event, either as a volunteer planter, or by planting trees on your own property. Together, we can change Barry County, one tree at a time. Todd Geerlings Dale Churchill, freshman softball co-coach; Steve Collins, middle school assistant boys track coach; Benjamin Conklin, JV girls soccer coach; Marshall Evans, varsity baseball coach; Michelle Gdula, freshman softball cocoach; Douglas Griggs, varsity softball coach; Dawn Harding, JV softball coach; Jason Hoefler, freshman baseball coach; Jennifer Johnston, JV girls tennis coach; Andrew Keller, varsity boys track coach; Stan Kirkendall, JV boys golf coach; Bruce Krueger, varsity boys golf coach; James Murphy, assistant varsity boys track coach; Melinda Nickels, assistant varsity girls track coach; Julie Severns,, varsity girls tennis coach, Jason Sixberry, JV baseball coach; Sarah Smith, varsity girls soccer coach; Brian Teed, varsity girls track coach. • Accepted a donation of $3,012 from the Hastings Education Enrichment Foundation to be used to help defray the cost of several activities, trips and materials for students. • Accepted the following resignations: Terri Pennepacker, bus driver; Heather Stall, Central and Southeastern lunchtime paraprofessional and Deanna Merz, high school student services secretary. Two HESPA secretaries — Darla Cady and Abby Lomas — were recalled but declined the position and will remain on lay-off status. SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN Young workers: spring into action by Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist If you’re a young worker, retirement probably seems like a lifetime away. In fact, you may wonder if your contributions to Social Security, deducted from your paycheck, actually cover you for anything right now. The answer is yes, they do, and the time to learn about Social Security and what it can do for you is now. By working in a job covered by Social Security, you are earning disability and survivor insurance protection. For example, a worker under age 24 paying Social Security taxes for as little as 1 1/2 years may be insured for disability and survivors benefits. If you’re like most workers, you probably don’t have private long-term disability insurance but you do have disability protection through Social Security, which provides coverage to you and your family if you become disabled. About one in four of today’s 20- year-olds will become disabled before reaching age 67. The average disability benefit paid in 2012 to a worker with a spouse and two children is $1,892 a month. Social Security also provides valuable survivor benefits. About one in eight young Americans can expect to die before reaching age 67. Social Security’s survivors insurance pays an average monthly benefit in 2012 of $2,543 for a spouse and two children of a young worker with average wages who dies. For more information on how Social Security protects younger and older workers, alike, visit our website, www.socialsecurity.gov. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. 07595337 77566563 IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV made the comments, ‘That’s what’s best; we need to do what’s best for Hastings.’ And, I was truly impressed with that.” Haas was not impressed. “I’m going to vote ‘no’,” he said. “I’ve expressed my concern about his affiliation with the referee position; I don’t take that lightly.” Haas said his own experience running a part-time business for 11 years makes him aware of how time-consuming a a second career can be. Haas was referring to Geerlings’ second job as an NCAA referee, which in the fall of 2011 took Geerlings to southern Indiana, central Illinois, Minnesota, Nebraska, and California, among other places. “I know that a second career places a lot of demands on an individual and on his family,” said Haas. “And, I personally, am concerned about his ability to devote the time that is necessary to our students when he is away refereeing a game. Sometimes being available by phone is just not acceptable...” Trustee Jon Hart said he saw Geerlings’ second career as a positive. “He spoke about how it enhances his approach to the administration position,” said Hart. “That to me, actually increases the depth and width of his skill set. And, it’s two hours to Ann Arbor. It’s and hour and half over to East Lansing, and two and a half hours to East Lafayette. It’s three hours to Northwestern. It’s 10 weekends over the course of 16 or 18 — actually, it’s 10 days out of 16 to 18 weeks and I see it as a positive.” “I felt the same way and I will say it again. Going on the site visit, we asked everyone from the secretaries to the board president and the superintendent whether it was any kind of issue, and none thought it was an issue, and I also thought it was a (sic) outside interest that everyone needs to have something — what they do, whether it is hunting, fishing— like’ we’ve had previous superintendents do,” said Beck. “... Everyone has their own thing ... I do not see it as a — something that I view negatively.” In other business, the board: • Heard comments from Hastings Educational Support Association and food service personnel objecting to privatization and staff reductions. • Approved the personnel report for March which included the following appointments: Geerlings, superintendent of schools; Kelli Lawrence, Central and Southeastern lunchtime paraprofessional; Nicole Rybiski, CERC front desk substitute; Tiffany Blakely, middle school assistant girls track coach; Christian Yonkers, Hastings NOW OPEN FOR THE SEASON Know Your Legislators: • Bulk & Bag Material Available • Trees & Shrubs Arriving April 13 • Select Clearance Area Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov 5715 South M-66, Nashville • 517-852-1864 77566592 Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8:30 - 6:00; Sat. 8:30 - 5:00 EwingLandscaping@yahoo.com INCOME TAX TIME IS HERE AGAIN! 77566567 U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. K.A. Mueller Accounting U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. 221 South Jefferson, Hastings, MI Phone: (269) 945-3547 www.kamuelleraccounting.com The Hastings Banner Time to visit... 77566565 • Professional, Economical & Personal TAX & Accounting Services 77566588 ® The Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Helen Mudry • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 77564841 John Jacobs 77566569 �Page 6 — Thursday, March 22, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Give a memorial that can go on forever... A gift to the Barry Community Foundation is used to help fund activities throughout the county in the name of the person you designate. Ask your funeral director for more information on the Barry Community Foundation or call the Barry Community Foundation at (269) 945-4010. Worship Together… Area Obituaries Logan Thorn-Finton Ida M. (Fisher) James Pauline Rose Converse HASTINGS, MI - Ida M. (Fisher) James of Hastings, passed away Saturday, March 17, 2012 at Thornapple Manor. She was born August 8, 1910 in Helena, OH to Lloyd and Ludie (Naylor) Fisher. The family moved to Michigan in 1911. Ida attended Hastings Center School and graduated from Hastings High School in 1928 followed by eight years of employment with the Tyden Lock and Seal Company. She married George James on November 8, 1932 in Woodland with Reverend Fay C. Wing officiating the ceremony. George preceded Ida in death on August 31, 1984. Ida was also preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Clarie Tobias, Gladys Farrell and Ethel Kilmer Survivors include a son, Harold (Sandy) James of Everett, PA, a daughter, Dorothy (Bud) Semrau of Nashville; eight grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren; five great great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. She was a devoted homemaker and supporter of school activities including serving as president of the Altoft School District for eight years until it was annexed to the Hastings Area School District in 1965. She became a member of the Coats Grove Church many years ago. Her lifetime goal has been to help others whenever possible. Funeral services are to be conducted Thursday, March 22, 2012 at the Daniels Funeral Home in Nashville with Pastor Randall Bertrand officiating. Burial will take place in the Hastings Township Cemetery. Visitation to be held one hour prior to the funeral services at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Coats Grove Church or to the Barry County Habitat for Humanity. DELTON, MI - Pauline Rose Converse, age 81, of Delton, passed away Tuesday, March 20, 2012. She was born April 16, 1930 in Monroe, the daughter of Paul A. and Rena May (Wickham) Theide. Pauline graduated from Godwin Heights High School, in Grand Rapids. She moved to Hastings in 1948. Pauline married Clarence Willard Hull in June of 1949, which later ended in divorce. She then married Charles Rodger Converse in November 1964. Pauline worked for a couple of restaurants in Hastings: the Tiki and Court Street Grill. She loved collecting jewelry, growing roses and shopping. Pauline loved to travel and enjoyed cruises. She enjoyed spending time with her family and loved her grandchildren very much. Pauline was preceded in death by her parents; son, Ronald P. Hull and her brother, John Thiede. She is survived by her daughters, Cindy Smith of Delton, Elaine (Dutch) Holtman of Delton, Connie Sutherland of Martin and Chris Roscoe of Hastings; grandchildren, Amy Andres, Larry Smith, Dan Holtman, Jeff Holtman, Sara Sutherland, Jessica Sutherland, Nicole (Nini) Ann Roscoe, Barry Roscoe Jr.; eight great grandchildren; and sister, Lorriane Chipman of Kentwood. Respecting Pauline's wishes, cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held Saturday, April 14, 2012 at Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. Service time is yet to be determined. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a message or memory to the family and to check for further updates regarding the service time. 77566481 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. ORANGEVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH 6921 Marsh Rd., 2 miles south of Gun Lake, Plainwell. Phone 269664-4377. OrangevilleBaptist. org. Pastors Dan Bowman and Adam Parmenter. Sundays - 9:45--10:45 a.m. “Dealing With Your Past” March through May. March 25 - 6 p.m. “Messiah in the Passover’ Seder Meal. March 31 - 7 p.m. Orangeville Cafe. April 8 - 7:30 & 11 a.m. Easter Celebration. April 22-27 - Evangelist Will Rice. Children, teen and adult Sunday School classes; 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Worship; 5:30 p.m. Junior and Senior High Word of Life Clubs. Tuesday - 9 a.m. Men’s Prayer and Bible Study. Wednesday - 6:30 p.m. Pre-school through 6th grade Word of Life Gophers & Olympians. Prayer & Bible Study - 7 p.m. 6 p.m. Teen Word of Life. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. HASTINGS SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH 904 Terry Lane, Hastings (or on the corner of Starr School Road and Terry Lane.) Phone: (269) 9452170. Pastor Michael Wise. Sabbath www.hastingssda.com (Saturday) School 9:30 a.m.; worship service 10:50 a.m. Mid-week meetings informal study and prayer service, Wednesdays 7 p.m. Youth ministry clubs, Adventurers for preschool to 4th grade students and Pathfinders for 5th grade students through high school, meet on the first and third Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. and first and third Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. respectively. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. CHURCH OF THE LIVING GOD A full gospel church. 1240 W. State Rd., Hastings. Pastor Doug Davis. 269-948-9740. Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study 6 p.m. Sunday School and Youth Group for all ages. Come and worship the Lord with us! . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Phone 269-721-8077. Minister Ryan Wieland 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Praise Worship Service; Noon alternate weekends Youth Group Tuesday. Covenant Prayer Group, Wednes-day 6:30 p.m., Choir Practice. Thursday 7 p.m. Praise Band Practice. 2nd and 4th Thursdays at 7 p.m. Christ’s Quilters. Friday 6:30 p.m., CPRChrist’s Plan for Recovery (meal served). For more information small groups, special evnts or if you have a prayer requst, call the church office and see postings on WEB site: www.countrychapel.umc.org. SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Cronk cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 2 p.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-797-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nash-ville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 or -517-852-1806. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS REFORMED CHURCH “A Historic Reformed Community.” Sunday morning services begin at 10 a.m. Meeting at the Barry County Commission on Aging building, 320 W. Woodlawn Ave., Hastings. Pastor: Peter Adams. 616-690-8609 padams@juno.com. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 9:15 Contemporary Worship, 10:30 a.m. Refreshments, 11 a.m. Traditional Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Pastor of Senior Adults and Visitation, Don Brail. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. for children, youths and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Senior High Youth Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Mid-Week: 6:30-7:45 p.m. Pioneer Clubs, age 4th to 5th grade, and Junior High Youth Group, 6th-8th grade. Thursday: 10 a.m. Senior Adult Discussion and 11:30 a.m., lunch at Wendy’s. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Sunday, March 25 - Worship at 8 & 10:45 a.m. Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. Holy Communion Every Sunday! March 26 - Adventurers Bible Study at 7 p.m. March 28 Wordwatchers Bible Study at 10 a.m.; Lenten Supper 6 p.m.; Taize Lenten Worship 7 p.m. March 29 Adult Choir at 7 p.m. 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 9452645, fax 269-945-2698. Pastor Amy Luckeyhttp://www.discovergrace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 10 a.m. Sunday School for All Ages; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service; 6 p.m. Youth Group; 6 p.m. Small Group Study. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blog spot.com. Thursday - 9 a.m. Men’s Bible Study; 11:30 Women’s Brown Bag Bible Study; 6:30 p.m. Choir Rehearsal. Friday - 9 a.m. Pickleball; 12 p.m. Newsletter Deadline; 6 p.m. Menders at 231 S. Broadway. Saturday - 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday - 4 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Tuesday - 1 p.m. Lenten Bible Study; 6:30 p.m. Women’s Bible Study. Wednesday - 5 p.m. Pickleball; 6:30 p.m. Church Info Class. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Fiberglass Products Lauer Family Funeral Homes 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 DELTON, MI - Logan Thorn-Finton, of Delton, passed away unexpectedly March 14, 2012. Logan was born May 31, 1988 in Hastings, the son of Gregory Thorn and Chrystan Finton. A 2006 graduate of Delton Kellogg High School, Logan received many scholarships to attend the University of Northwest Ohio, where he earned a degree in Automotive Technology. Logan enjoyed gardening, nature, camping, being outdoors, and he was an avid reader. Logan loved music, writing poetry, hanging out with his friends and cookouts and campfires. Logan was a free spirit with a kind heart. Logan would like to be remembered as one who always wanted others to be happy and laugh. Logan is survived by his parents, Gregory (Tanya) Thorn and Chrystan Finton; his grandparents, Bonnie Jones, Bev and Dan Sutherland, and Butch Thorn; his great grandmother, Kathy Thorn; his great grandfather, Tiny (Pat) Foote; a step brother, Michael Cottingham; a step sister, Krystal Cottingham; special aunts, Amy VanCamp and Heidi Presley; and several aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by his great grandfather, John Thorn and a grandmother, Madelyn Foote. A memorial service was conducted Tuesday, March 20, 2012, at Hickory Corners Bible Church, Pastor Jeff Worden officiating. Those who wish to make memorial contributions are asked to consider the needs of the family. Please visit www.williams-goresfuneral.com to view or sign Logan's guest book. Arrangements made by Williams-Gores Funeral Home, Delton. Anita E. Curtis Wayne F. Schoneboom DELTON, MI - Anita E. Curtis, age 84, of Delton, passed away Monday, March 19, 2012. She was born April 22, 1927 in Barry County, the daughter of George and Ivah (Wilson) Brisbin. Anita was one of ten children. She attended Hastings High School, graduating in 1947. Anita married Morris Curtis Sr. on February 12, 1949. They were married for 51 years, before his passing. Anita retired from Hastings Fiber Glass Products, after working over 25 years there. She also did waitress work at the Trio Café and was a pinsetter at Hastings Bowl. Anita enjoyed crossword puzzles, word search, watching bowling on TV, reading and mowing the lawn. She was preceded in death by her husband, Morris Curtis Sr.; her parents; siblings, Don, Glenn, Kenneth, Neil, Nelson, Nina, Shannon, Robert and Roy. Anita is survived by her children, David (Malee) Curtis of Wellington, AL, Pamela (Curtis) Juzix of Hayward, CA, George Curtis, Mark Curtis, Gordon Curtis and Morris Curtis Jr., all of Hastings and Nancy (Derwin) Medeiros of Delton; 15 grandchildren, and 24 great grandchildren. Respecting Anita’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held at a later date at Brush Ridge Cemetery, Hope Township. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., Please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a message or memory to the family. HASTING, MI - Wayne F. Shoneboom, of Hastings, passed away March 20, 2012. Wayne was born August 10, 1935 in Allegan County, the son of Henry and Gladys (Pierson) Schoneboom. Wayne was a loyal employee of Fuller Manufacturing for 17 years, owned and operated Schonie’s Market at Gull Lake for seven years, and was a lifelong farmer. He enjoyed fishing, hunting and snowmobiling. Wayne took great pride in his farms and keeping them nice. He served on the Hope Township board of review for 10 years, and also worked closely with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources in trapping and relocating turkeys from his farm and also working with different plots of land. Wayne was preceded in death by his parents; nephew, Jonathon Campbell and sisterin-law, Charlotte Schoneboom. He is survived by his wife Treva of 56 years; two brothers, Fred (Zoan) Schoneboom and Don (Betty) Schoneboom; a sister, Dawn (Don) Campbell; and several nieces and nephews. Wayne’s family will receive friends Friday, March 23, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the Williams-Gores Funeral Home, Delton, where a funeral service will be conducted Saturday, March 24, 2012 at 11 a.m., with Pastor Ronald L. Watterly officiating. Interment will take place in Oak Hill Cemetery, Orangeville Township. Memorial contributions to the American Heart Association will be appreciated. Please visit www.williams-goresfuneral.com to view and sign Wayne's online guest book. Ronald Paul Armour DOWLING, MI - Ronald Paul Armour, age 45, of Dowling, passed away Tuesday, March 20, 2012 as a result of a motorcycle accident. Full obituary will be in the Saturday Reminder. Lauer Family Funeral Home Wren-Chapel, 1401 N. Broadway in Hastings, is caring for the family’s needs. GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 269-945-9554 to start your subscription. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 22, 2012 — Page 7 Public hearing on Bradford White tax issue is April 10 by Julie Makarewicz Staff Writer An April 10 public hearing has been set to consider a tax abatement request for Bradford White on a nearly $4.5 million project. The company is seeking abatement of personal property taxes for improvements valued at $2.7 million and real property taxes with improvements valued at $1.7 million. The improvements are being made at the company’s 445 Eagle Drive location. The hearing will take place at 7 p.m. during the regular village council meeting in the village hall. According to the application information submitted to the village, the current facility is being used as a warranty and technical sup- port call center. Plans are underway to construct an international technical excellence center. The new center will provide training and continuing education credits for plumbers associated with Bradford White Middleville, Bradford White Canada, Niles Steel Tank, and Laars. Earlier, Bradford White officials said the site will include working models of Bradford White water heaters, Laars boilers, and Niles tanks and systems. The application also estimates the project will create at least six new jobs within two years of the project completion. There are currently 15 employees in the facility now and all will be retained. Social News Karl and Barbara Anders celebrating 60 years Karl and Barbara Anders are celebrating 60 years of marriage on March 22, 2012. Their children are Deb (Steve) Anders, Diane Lancaster, Dennis Anders, Darlene (Charlie) Biggs and Denise (Larry) Herbert. They have 16 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren. Marriage Licenses Andrew Burdette Cooley, Hastings and Shannon Linette Lydy, Hsatings. Zackary John Elliott, Battle Creek and Cheyanne Sheree Felter, Battle Creek. John Jay Madden, Shelbyville and Teresa Elaine Banas, Shelbyville. Daniel Gene Smith, Battle Creek and Theresa Marie Levario, Plainwell. Roger L. Barnum HASTINGS, MI - Roger L. Barnum, of Hastings, passed away March 13, 2012. Roger was born August 19, 1927, in Hastings, the son of Elwood and Anna (Blood) Barnum. Roger was a farmer most of his life. He was an avid Detroit Tiger and Detroit Pistons fan. While a resident at Thornapple Manor he loved playing bingo, and will be remembered for his smile, and his cheery disposition. Roger is survived by his children, Michael Barnum, Patricia (Tom) Locke, Randy Barnum, Robert (Josephine) Barnum, and Mariann (Paul) Salvador; a stepdaughter, Beth (David) Richardson; sister and brotherin-law, Carol and Jim Smalley; sister-in-law, Patricia Baragar; brother and sister-in-law, Dr. Richard and Chris Dean; four grandchildren and two step grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Roger was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, JoAnn (Dean) Barnum on April 10, 2005. Funeral and committal service was conducted at Beeler-Gores Funeral Home in Middleville on Saturday, March 17, 2012, with Dr. Michael T. Conklin officiating. Private burial took place in Mt. Hope Cemetery. Memorial contributions to Thornapple Manor Activities Fund will be appreciated. Please visit www.beelergoresfuneral.com to view and sign Roger's online guest book. Gwen Turner to celebrate 96th birthday Gwen Turner will be celebrating her 96th birthday on March 27, 2012. Please help her celebrate by sending her a card at 522 S. Broadway, Hastings. Newborn Babies Blake Earl and Bodey Dennis Morawski, born at Metro Health Hospital, Wyoming on Feb. 24, 2012 to Derek and Ashley Morawski of Hastings. Blake was born at 3:30 a.m. and weighed 6 lbs. 14 ozs. and 20 inches long. Bodey was born at 3:32 a.m. and weighed 7 lbs. 13 ozs. and was 19 1/2 inches long. ***** Caden Joseph, born at Pennock Hospital on March 5, 2012 at 11:07 a.m. to Liz Moreno and Andrew Peabody of Sunfield. Weighing 8 lbs. 14 ozs. and 20 1/2 inches long. ***** Eva Nicole Dee, born at Pennock Hospital on March 6, 2012 at 8:51 a.m. to Susan and Kyle McCracken of Freeport. Weighing 6 lbs. 10 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Orrin Gabriel, born at Pennock Hospital on March 6, 2012 at 8:01 a.m. to Michael and Selena Reid of Nashville. Weighing 6 lbs. 5 ozs. and 19 inches long. ***** Shane Grayson, born at Pennock Hospital on March 5, 2012 at 1:39 p.m. to Amber Trierweiler and Chaz Arizola of Lake Odessa. Weighing 7 lbs. 5 ozs. and 20 1/2 inches long. ***** Konnor Trayton, born at Pennock Hospital on March 6, 2012 at 6:20 p.m. to Trayton Kent and Cari Coenen of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 9 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Valerie Jo, born at Pennock Hospital on March 9, 2012 at 8:01 a.m. to David and Andrea Heeringa of Middleville. Weighing 7 lbs. 10 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Ryan Levi, born at Pennock Hospital on March 8, 2012 at 3:10 a.m. to Hillary Ruffner and Randy Shoup of Bellevue. Weighing 9 lbs. 14 ozs. and 23 inches long. ***** Isabella Grace, born at Pennock Hospital on March 8, 2012 at 4:16 p.m. to Jamie and Aaron Brown of Delton. Weighing 6 lbs. 11 ozs. and 19 inches long. ***** Mason Douglas, born at Pennock Hospital on March 8, 2012 at 2:44 a.m. to David and Alix Dickinson of Charlotte. Weighing 6 lbs. 14 ozs. and 18 inches long ***** Summer Marie, born at Pennock Hospital on March 9, 2012 at 9:08 a.m. to Michael and Amber Clemens of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 14 ozs. and 19 1/2 inches long. State News Roundup Amtrak unhappy with Norfolk Southern decision to reduce speed According to a press release issued by Amtrak, Norfolk Southern Railway ordered passenger trains to slow to 25-to-30 miles per hour on certain Michigan track segments it owns and controls between Kalamazoo and Ann Arbor, starting March 15. These restrictions from previous top speeds of up to 79 mph have an even larger impact than those imposed by NS last year. Amtrak is advising passengers to expect delays of 45 to 90 minutes on Wolverine Service trains to and from Chicago and Detroit/Pontiac, with lesser delays on the Amtrak Blue Water to and from Chicago and Port Huron, via East Lansing and Flint. “The decision by Norfolk Southern to reduce train speeds on the track shared with the Amtrak Wolverine and Blue Water services will have a serious impact on passenger service, and could cause delays for freight shippers, too,” said Tim Hoeffner, director of the Michigan Department of Transportation Office of Rail. “Last year, MDOT invested millions of dollars to upgrade this line at the state’s expense, and we hope Norfolk Southern will bear that in mind and work to minimize slowdowns that inconvenience businesses and travelers,” Hoeffner added. The duration of the service delays is unknown. NS has said it would begin track improvement work in three weeks. Amtrak will issue a detailed passenger service notice when more details are available. “Ridership was just returning to normal since the last service disruption and lowered speeds in the summer of 2011,” said Morrell Savoy, the Chicago-based Amtrak superintendent responsible for train service in Michigan. The slow orders from NS come while it is negotiating to complete the sale of the line to the State of Michigan. These orders come less than four weeks after a celebration of increased speeds up to 110 mph on the Amtrak-owned portion of this line in Western Michigan and Northwest Indiana. Traffic safety summit to feature connected vehicles, distracted driving, sobriety courts The 2012 Michigan Traffic Safety Summit will feature information on a cutting-edge project to advance automotive medicine, a connected vehicle safety pilot project in Ann Arbor and the latest research on distracted driving. More than 400 people were expected to attend the three-day event this week at the Kellogg Center in East Lansing to get the latest information on law enforcement issues, engineering best practices, emergency medical services and education. The summit is sponsored by the Office of Highway Safety Planning and largely supported by federal traffic safety funds. “The summit provides a unique opportunity to share information, research and best practices in order to further reduce traffic deaths and injuries in our state,” said Michael L. Prince, OHSP director. Workshops will also cover dementia and driving, crash scene management for motorcycles, sleep and its affect on traffic safety and helping older drivers stay behind the wheel longer. The summit agenda can be viewed at www.michigan.gov/ohsp. Shaughnessy updates area farmers during Eaton County legislative breakfast State Rep. Deb Shaughnessy met with area farmers March 16 to provide an update on legislation affecting them, during the Eaton County Farm Bureau Legislative Breakfast. In addition to Shaughnessy and other state and local office-holders, Keith Creagh, director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, was invited to the event by Shaughnessy to give an agriculture update. “The governor and Director Creagh have recognized farmers and producers as the unsung heroes of Michigan’s economic recovery, and I was honored to take part in this gathering and discuss important legislation affecting those who grow our food,” said Shaughnessy, R-Charlotte. “Farmers and producers are vital to Eaton County’s economy as well as the state’s, and I welcome their input and feedback on the bills the Legislature is considering.” Creagh provided an update on the MDARD’s new direction to improve Michigan’s agriculture and farm profitability. The event took place at the Eaton County Farm Bureau Co-op in Charlotte. BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY by Gerald Stein NORTH N: 9 8 M: A 9 4 L: K 7 5 2 K: J 9 6 5 WEST EAST N: 6 4 3 2 M: K J 7 5 3 L: 8 6 K: 8 3 N: Q 10 5 M: 6 2 L: J 9 K: A K Q 10 7 2 SOUTH: N: A K J 7 M: Q 10 8 L:A Q 10 4 3 K: 4 Lead: N5 As Ms. Tiffany W. Casement sat down at the bridge table, her thoughts were certainly not on her cards. Her mind was still back on Valentine’s Day when boyfriend James B. Bondo had proposed on bended knee. She still remembered the little black box that James had extended in her direction. With trembling hands, she had opened it to find an exquisite one carat marquise cut diamond in a stunning setting. She smiled to herself at the bridge table. Ms. Casement was abruptly brought back to reality when the three others, including her partner, all cleared their throats. “Oh, it’s my bid,” she thought. Without much thought at all, a disaster in the bridge world, she pulled out the green Pass card from her bidding box and placed it on the table. “Oops,” she thought to herself. “What have I done? What have I done?” She straightened up in her chair, and then she realized what a powerful hand she had just passed with. “It’s time for concentration, dear girl, and no time for a diamond reverie.” The bidding went as follows: Dealer: South Pass! Dbl! 4NT! L! 6L West North East Pass Pass Pass All Pass Pass L 1L L 5L K 1K K 2K Pass Ms. Casement recovered in time to make several astounding bids to make up for her faux pas on the opening bid. With her partner North playing the hand, and the lead of the N5 (not best), it was clear to all at the table that the vulnerable North-South team would make the small slam in diamonds, losing the KA and scoring an impressive 1370 points. How differently things had gone at the other table, when South, paying attention to her hand, had opened as follows: South West North East L 1L L 2L Pass Pass 1NT L 3L K 2K All Pass K Lead: 8K The contract at the second table ended up in a part-score in diamonds instead of the small diamond slam of the first table. Although the lead was better, (it is important to keep your partner happy by leading to their bid!) it made no difference at all in the playing of the hand. NorthSouth still ended up with twelve tricks, losing just the KA as had happened at the first table. What a difference in scoring, however. At the second table, North-South had a three-trick bonus for 170 total points, nowhere close to the first table’s sparkling score of 1370. Was the first North-South team lucky? You could argue that, but the recovery for South was a brilliant shine on her part. Sometimes there are “potential train wrecks” due to bidding or playing the hand or defending in the game of bridge. How you cope with the situation at hand determines a plus score or a poor score. As she looked over the score for her team, Ms. Tiffany W. Casement glanced down at her diamond engagement ring once again. With a big smile on her face, she thought to herself, “Diamonds are forever!” New this week: A Bridge Question somehow related to the column above: What old movie featured a bridge hand that totally befuddled a villain by the name of D_ _ _? Who was the declarer on this hand? The bridge hand in question is often called “The Duke of Cumberland” hand and is a classic bridge hand. Good luck! No, it was not “Diamonds Are Forever” either although that is a good place to start looking. (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) Latest updates from the KCC Institute for Learning in Retirement (ILR) Office: -- Bridge Class #2, The Play of the Hand, for intermediate and for advanced beginner players, will be offered in Battle Creek for nine weeks beginning April 23 -- A nine-week beginning bridge class, "Bidding in the 21st Century," will be offered at the KCC Fehsenfeld Center on Wednesday mornings from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. beginning April 25. Beginners and intermediate bridge players are welcome. Call the ILR office at 269-948-9500 Extension 2804 for more information on both classes. Ray L. Girrbach Owner/Director 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 • 269-945-3252 Serving Hastings, Barry County and Surrounding Communities for 45 years •Traditional and Cremation Services •Pre-Planning Services •Large Parking Lot - Handicap Accessible •Serving All Faiths •Pre-arrangement Transfers Accepted Family Owned and Operated www.girrbachfuneralhome.net �Page 8 — Thursday, March 22, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of by Elaine Garlock The depot complex will be open this weekend with the theme “here comes the bride.” A sneak preview shows wedding gowns of many vintages on display, along with a rack full of bridesmaids dresses, wedding photos and stories from newspapers. There are vintage dresses from Mertie Johnson, Uarda Reed, and others. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, March 24, and 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, March 25. As always this is a free event and the coffee pot will be on. Weather makes the news this week with unseasonably high temperatures. The weather is more like may than March. Robins are seen quite often. Tulips are several inches high. Daffodils are in bloom. Crocuses have made their debut. The sidewalks are busy every evening, with bikes, mothers pushing strollers, and lots of walkers, joggers, runners. The young fry cannot bear the heat so they are wearing their shorts. The portable classrooms that have been used for many years as the central office for Lakewood schools on the south end of the school property have been removed, and the site has been cleared. The school before 1956 had acquired the center part of the area bound by Sixth Avenue, Washington Boulevard, M50 and Second Street, for future school use. After a bond issue passed in fall 1956 plans proceeded for construction of a new elementary school to house grades kindergarten through fourth grade. The school then acquired a narrow strip for a sidewalk to extend to Sixth Avenue. Another narrow strip out to Second Street provided space for a driveway for uses of busses. Another narrow strip to the south onto M-50 also was wide enough for a driveway. The playground occupied the rest of the space east and south of the school. Thus the office was reached by a drive onto M-50 or on foot from the school campus. The gambrel-roofed barn on the Darby- Stuart farm has been razed. Much of the farm has been planted to pine trees which occupy most of the acreage on Woodland Road north of Brown Road. Jack Mutch and wife are making changes at the Cook/crosby house on North Fourth Avenue purchased last year. They have removed a large tree and plan to remove a 1920 vintage garage to make room for a new attached garage. Much interior work was accomplished in 2011. The 2012 Lake Odessa High School alumni banquet will be Saturday, June 30. Invitations will be mailed in May. The class of 1962 will celebrate its 50th anniversary. The LOAHS will open the depot and freight house that day and also have an ice cream social July 1. Fridays during Lent, Fr. Victor Kynam of St. Edward Catholic Church is holding Stations of the Cross at 6 p.m. A change in routine is that this year the church is not holding its Friday baked fish dinner, a very popular event in recent years. People want to enjoy the great weather, but skeptics may recall years past when we had late March or early April storms that brought several inches of snow. In one such year, this writer and her daughter had to combine their real necessary items in a small tote bag, leaving behind clothing used for an overnight visit in order to ride a snowmobile for more than a mile because no car could navigate the distance because of deep drifts. This was on March 17. The Rev. Karen Sorden of Baldwin has been assigned a new church appointment, effective July 1. She will become the pastor of Central United Methodist Church of Lake Odessa. She has been seven years at her current location serving both the Baldwin Christian Covenant Church and the United Methodist Church at Luther, also in Lake County. — NOTICE — To members of Hastings Mutual Insurance Company, Hastings, Michigan: Notice is hereby given that the Annual Meeting of Hastings Mutual Insurance Company will be held at the Home Office, 404 East Woodlawn Avenue, Hastings, Michigan, on Wednesday, April 11, 2012, beginning at 9:00 a.m. Michael W. Puerner, Secretary 77566489 NOTICE City of Hastings Position Available: Accounts Receivable This position serves the public and City staff by receiving and processing data from various sources to create and distribute invoices for utility services. The position requires analytical skills that enable the incumbent to consider conditions and information; prepare and evaluate courses of action; implement problem solving strategies; and monitor and report results. Superior computer skills, ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing, excellent interpersonal skills, high school graduate, and prior office experience are expected. Specific experience with computerized accounts receivable systems and other general accounting functions is very strongly preferred. Additional relevant education, such as an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in accounting, will be considered a significant plus This is a full-time position with a standard City of Hastings benefit package. An application for employment may be obtained at City Hall, 201 E. State St., Hastings, Michigan 49058, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday or by telephone request to Gina Maurer, Deputy Clerk, at 269.945.2468. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Review of applications will begin on March 21, 2012. 77566447 Maxed out on your IRA and 401(k)? What’s the next step? If you are contributing the maximum amount to your 401(k) or other employersponsored retirement plan each year, that’s good. And if you’re also “maxing out” on your Individual Retirement Account (IRA) annually, that’s even better. But what then? If you’re already fully funding your 401(k) and IRA, can you put away even more for retirement? Should you? The answer to this last question is almost certainly “yes” — because you could spend a long time in retirement. How long? Consider these statistics from the Society of Actuaries: • A man who’s reached age 65 in good health has a 50% chance of living 20 more years and a 25% chance of living to age 92. • A 65-year-old woman has a 50% chance of living to age 88 and a 25% chance of living to 94. • There’s a 50% chance that at least one member of a 65-year-old couple will live to 92 — and there’s a 25% chance at least one of them will reach age 97. Because you have a reasonably good chance of spending two, or even three, decades in retirement, you clearly need to accumulate substantial financial resources before you retire. So, if you consistently reach the contribution limits on your 401(k) and IRA, you’re making a smart move, as both these vehicles offer the potential for taxdeferred earnings and a variety of investment choices. But if you can still afford to put away more money, or if your income level prevents you from contributing to a Roth IRA, you may want to look at these possibilities: • Life Insurance Retirement Plan — A Life Insurance Retirement Plan (LIRP) is essentially a life insurance policy that can potentially help you generate tax-advantaged income during your retirement years. Until you begin taking withdrawals, the cash value of your policy has the potential to grow tax deferred. Then, when you retire, you can take Thomas Emery City Clerk/Treasurer tax-free payouts from your principal. (After the entire principal is paid, payouts are treated as loans against the contract.) And your beneficiaries will receive the balance of the death benefit income tax free, minus any loans or loan interest. • Annuities — You might find that a fixed annuity can be an appropriate way to supplement your retirement income. Like a LIRP, a fixed annuity’s earnings have the potential to grow on a tax-deferred basis. Also, fixed annuities generally offer some type of guaranteed rate of return over the life of the annuity contract. And perhaps most importantly, you can structure your annuity to provide you with an income stream you can’t outlive. (Keep in mind, though, that annuities are generally more appropriate for investors who are at least 45 years old.) While you can certainly get some key benefits from a LIRP and a fixed annuity, you need to fully understand all aspects of these investment vehicles and make sure they are suitable for your situation and individual needs. Consequently, before investing, consult with a financial professional. But don’t wait too long. By preparing for your retirement well ahead of time, you can boost your chances of enjoying the type of “golden years” lifestyle that you’ve envisioned. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 30.13 +.03 AT&T 31.79 +.16 BP PLC 46.22 -1.11 CMS Energy Corp 21.79 -.35 Coca-Cola Co 70.59 +.34 Eaton 49.95 -.28 Family Dollar Stores 56.95 -.52 Fifth Third Bancorp 14.50 +.34 Flowserve CP 115.19 -2.13 Ford Motor Co. 12.54 -.16 General Mills 38.76 +.17 General Motors 25.09 -.98 Intel Corp. 27.75 +.26 Kellogg Co. 52.68 -.22 McDonald’s Corp 97.65 +.87 Pfizer Inc. 21.80 -.21 Ralcorp 72.29 -1.98 Sears Holding 80.00 +.06 Spartan Motors 5.47 -.19 Spartan Stores 17.95 -.55 Stryker 54.82 +1.49 TCF Financial 12.41 +.68 Walmart Stores 60.60 -.40 Gold $1,649.08 -$21.94 Silver $32.07 -1.19 Dow Jones Average 13,170 -7 Volume on NYSE 656M -191M See us for color copies, one-hour photo processing and all your printing needs. PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy., Hastings 77566531 The Barry County Board of Commissioners is seeking applications from volunteers to serve on the following Boards/Commissions: Planning Commission (2 positions) Parks and Recreation Board (1 position) Applications may be obtained at the County Administration Office, 3rd floor of the Courthouse, 220 W. State St., Hastings: or www.barrycounty.org; and must be returned no later than 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 18, 2012. Contact 269-945-1284 for more information. EDWARD JONES NOTICE MAPLE GROVE TOWNSHIP A public hearing on the proposed Maple Grove Township budget for the coming fiscal year, April 1, 2012, through March 31, 2013, will be held in conjunction with the annual meeting at the township hall, 721 Durkee St., Nashville, on Wednesday, March 28, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget will also be a subject of this meeting. Copies of the proposed budget may be obtained at the township hall. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact Susie Butler, Clerk by writing 9752 Evart Rd., Nashville, or by phoning 517-852-1859. A special meeting of the Maple Grove Township Board will be held immediately following the annual meeting. Susie Butler, Maple Grove Township Clerk 77566549 CITY OF HASTINGS NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CLOSE OUT OF THE CITY OF HASTINGS COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROJECT, MSC 209053 The City of Hastings will conduct a public hearing as part of their regularly scheduled meeting on March 26, 2012 at 7:00 PM at 201 East State Street, Hastings, for the purpose of affording citizens an opportunity to submit comments on the proposed close out of the facade project for the former Hastings Press Building. Comments may be submitted in writing through March 26, 2012 or made in person at the public hearing. Citizen views and comments on the proposed close out are welcome. John J. Hart Community Development Director 77566542 Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads Looking good in black — even if you’re millions of years old by Dr. E. Kirsten Peters I’ve never met Ryan Carney of Brown University, but he is my kind of man. On his arm he has tattooed the image of a feather of the dino-bird known as Archaeopteryx. The feather is a famous feature of the animal that lived in the late Jurassic period in what’s now southern Germany. And that animal was either an in-between species of dinosaurs and birds or was a cousin to that transitional animal. You can check with any 9-year-old you know about the significance of Archaeopteryx. The feathered creature lived at the close of the Age of the Dinos. They were big creatures, compared to modern birds, some a foot and a half long. A few of them were preserved in the shallow sediments of what’s known as the Solnhofen limestone in Europe. The limestone in question is very fine-grained and preserved even the delicate structure of feathers. The handful of fossils of Archaeopteryx are each worth a king’s ransom. They are sometimes cited as one of the most important set of fossils we have that show major evolutionary transitions. Archaeopteryx’s feathers may have helped keep the animal warm or may have aided it in flight — or both. There’s been a long discussion about whether Archaeopteryx came from earlier, treedwelling animals that could glide downward — a hypothesis known as the treesdown model. Alternatively, Archaeopteryx may have lived on the ground where it ran quickly, making long leaps, launching itself into flight in what’s called the ground-up model. Virtually all of the flesh and blood Archaeopteryx animals that lived and breathed in the late Jurassic era died and rotted away. But a few fell into the shallow sea around which they lived — and sank to the limey bottom. The bottommost waters of the sea helped preserve them and then cover them with more layers of the sediment that became limestone. In recent times, as Germans have quarried the Solnhofen limestone, the fossils have come to light, in part because the rock breaks into flat sheets, revealing the fossils that lie mostly between the rocky beds of the limestone. Once in a while, quite out of the blue, the rock breaks open to reveal Archaeopteryx in all its glory. There’s some technical dispute about whether it’s best to think of Archaeopteryx as a dino becoming a bird or as one of the first animals really and truly at the base of the bird family tree. It’s not surprising there’s such a debate. In the first place, the fossil record is always incomplete compared to the full complexity of animal life through geologic time. And secondly, as researchers study bird evolution from dinosaur stock, gray areas emerge where one researcher could legitimately think of a fossil as a specialized dinosaur while another scientist might understandably emphasize the bird-like features of a particular fossil find. The most recent technical publication I’ve seen in the journal Nature is opposed to the notion that Archaeopteryx should be called the first bird on the planet. But it’s clear that Archaeopteryx had features of both dinosaurs and birds. It had wings and feathers, but it also had features such as sharp teeth and a long, bony tail that made it more like a dinosaur than a modern bird. What’s interesting now is the news from the tattooed Mr. Carney and some of his colleagues that at least some of the feathers sported by Archaeopteryx were black. The evidence for color comes from the microscopic examination of pigment-bearing structures that are similar to those found in modern birds. Today’s bird feathers have what the ScienceNews website calls “rod-shaped nubbins” that contain melanin pigments. Carney and company compared the structures found in 87 kinds of modern birds with those of Archaeopteryx as it is preserved for us in the fine-grained limestone. The researchers found the fossil dino-bird had pigment-bearing structures that are more like black ones in modern birds than like those associated with brown or gray feathers. But despite the recent news from the realm of scientific research, the jury is still out on the overall color of Archaeopteryx. Still, I like to think Archaeopteryx looked good in basic black, just like our crows. Dr. E. Kirsten Peters, a native of the rural Northwest, was trained as a geologist at Princeton and Harvard universities. Follow her online at rockdoc.wsu.edu and on Twitter @RockDocWSU. This column is a service of the College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences at Washington State University. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 22, 2012 — Page 9 ROTARY, continued from page 1 the “Baritone Barrister.” He then went on to speak of his many experiences with Rotary. “Some 52 years ago, one of the world’s most distinguished Rotarians wrote an article in Rotarian Magazine,” said King. “He had been in Rotary about eight years when he wrote the article, and he called it ‘The Truly Human Man.’ He was a Nobel Peace Prize winner, a distinguished physician, spent a lifetime in Africa treating people who were very poor, and of course his name was Albert Schweitzer. “Let me read to you just a few lines [from] the May 1962 Rotarian. ‘Having occupied myself since my youth with a great problem of civilization and its survival, amidst the events which form the great adventure which we share in this world, I knew there would have to be created some day associations of people aside from political parties, aside from every other type of distinction, something solely to meet the ideal of the truly human man who tries to judge as a truly human man, and act as a truly human man. Two tornadoes on same day in 1920 brought death and destruction here The following depiction of the 1920 storm was published in the Nov. 13, 1952, Hastings Banner and written by M.L. Cook. ***** All of the first page of the Banner of April 1, 1920, was used to describe, and also to give pictures of some of the buildings wrecked by two cyclones that, at the same time, though 15 miles from each other, swept northeastward across Barry County on Sunday afternoon, March 28. Five persons died in this county as the result of the two twisters, and 14 persons were more or less seriously injured. One whirling terror entered this county hear Shelp’s Resort on Pine Lake, Prairieville, after having done a lot of damage in Allegan County. It entered Orangeville, diagonally, crossing that township, hit the southeast portion of Yankee Springs, then went northeastward across Rutland Township, then it went north and a little east, crossed the river into Irving Township. Then it proceeded east and little northward into Carlton Township. The destructive tail of the twister lifted, doing little damage to Woodland. It hit a corner of Eaton County, then into Ionia County and on into Clinton County. At St. Johns, it did a great deal of damage. This storm smashed the barn on Walter Brown’s farm in Orangeville, destroyed the home of John Schantz across the line in Yankee Springs. There Scott Cook, a near neighbor, was visiting Schantz. He was so badly injured that he died soon after. Schantz and another visitor at his home were painfully but not seriously injured. In Rutland, the barn on Adrian Burroughs farm was smashed. The Henry Shipman home and barn and the nearby Rutland Methodist Church were swept away. Mr. and Mrs. Shipman were hurt, but not seriously. The twister next landed on the barn of Lewis Edger. It seemed to be headed for Hastings. But its direction changed to north and a little west. It crossed the river, then struck the house of Moses Stutz, on the old Bates farm. It unroofed the house, then smashed the barn. Next in line were the barn and garage on the Feldpausch farm in Irving, which it destroyed. Then it turned in an easterly direction toward Carlton. In that township, a lot of valuable timber was destroyed. No other serious damage was reported in this county. The other cyclone entered Barry County from Ross Township, Kalamazoo County, south and little east of Hickory Corners. The two traveled together, at about the same speed, and about 12 to 15 miles apart. The southern twister is said to have done considerable damage in Barry Township, but phone lines are down and we cannot give particulars. It struck the south shore of Fine Lake in Johnstown and wrecked the long row of cottages there. Not far to the east it hit the barn on the Carl Bowman farm and another farther east. It smashed the Bullis schoolhouse farther east. The jacket of the furnace in that school building was found in Maple Grove, several miles distant. When the whirling black cloud reached level land in Maple Grove its fury increased. Its path across that township was strewn with the wreckage of houses, barns, trees and telephone poles. George Belson’s and James Moon’s nice homes were on an east-and-west highway, not far apart and on opposite sides of the roadway. The 11 persons in those two homes had no idea, on that quiet Sunday afternoon, of the death-dealing storm that was headed toward them. Both houses were levelled to their foundations. Miss Edith Belson, 17, Mrs. Moon and her mother living with her, were so badly injured when the two houses were swept away, that they soon died. Mr. Moon was so badly hurt that he died a few days later. Injured when the storm wrecked these homes were George and Archie Belson, and persons who were visiting at Belson’s that Sunday, Vern Hawblitz of Maple Grove, and Mrs. Pearl Tobey and her two children, Alice and Edith, of Toledo, Ohio. Five residents of this county died as a result of this storm, and 14 others were injured. The property damage was well over $100,000 in the county. From Maple Grove, this cyclone swept into Eaton County. On that same afternoon, a cyclone hit Washtenaw and Lenawee counties, where there was heavy property damage, and many were injured also. In the northern part of the Lower Peninsula of Michigan there was another cyclone. As the writer recalls it, the Windstorm Company [now Hastings Mutual Insurance Company], of this city, paid over $1,000,000 in losses due to these cyclones. These two twisters were the worst and most destructive storms that have ever visited Barry County. City of Hastings PUBLIC NOTICE Noxious Weeds and Vegetation Notice is hereby given that noxious weeds and vegetation as defined by Section 38-100 to Section 38-106, Division 4, Article II, Chapter 38 of the City of Hastings Code of Ordinances, as amended, not cut during the growing season of April 15, 2012 to October 15, 2012 may be cut by the City of Hastings or its designated representative, and the owner of the property shall be charged with the cost thereof. Noxious weeds and grasses more than eight (8) inches in height, dead bushes, and bushes infested with dangerous insects and infectious diseases must be cut and removed from the property. Any owner who refuses to destroy and remove such material may be subject to a Civil Infraction and fine, and the City or its designated representative may enter upon the land as many times as necessary, and destroy and remove such material and charge the cost to the property owner. Any expense incurred by the City shall be reimbursed by the owner of the land. Unrecovered costs shall be levied as a lien on the property and shall be collected against the property in the same manner as general taxes. The City, through its Code Enforcement Officer, shall have the right to enter upon such lands for the purpose of cutting down, destroying, or removing noxious weeds or vegetation and shall not be liable in any action of trespass. Thomas E. Emery City Clerk 77566450 “‘The first time I heard of Rotary it was a great consolation. I said to myself, Now we are beginning to do what is necessary for the future. I have lived through this great concern for the future of humanity with my friend Albert Einstein, whom I have known for a many years and know how much he too was waiting for a great movement. Now this movement has come in Rotary, and we shall fight on, while remaining profoundly human.’” King noted, that with all his world travels, he is convinced Rotary is necessary for the future. “Everywhere you go there is conflict and war and dispute,” he said. “There is a lot of poverty, hunger and disease — a lot of illiteracy and misunderstanding. [The attacks of Sept. 1, 2001] took place when I was your president ... when I got back from Brazil, there were over 1,000 letters waiting for me, from all over the world, and they painted a provocative question. Almost all of them said how sorry they were, but then they asked what Rotary was going to do about it. Many of the letters were from royalty and heads of state around the globe. “Three weeks later, The Chicago Tribune came out with an article called ‘The Rotary Factor.’ I was stunned when I read it. ‘The club known for back-slapping lunches emerges as the key ally in the war on global terror.’ It talked about Rotary’s role and the kind of people who are in Rotary — heads of state, royalty, heads of international and multi-national corporations and political, social, cultural and religious leaders, leaders in 34,000 clubs. Protestants and Catholics meeting on the border of Ireland. Hindus and Muslims meeting on the borders of India and Pakistan. Throughout the Middle East the meeting of Arabs and Jews. Men and women of every rank and race, every color and creed, every religion and political persuasion known to the human race wear the Rotary Wheel which says Rotary International. That’s the genius of our organization. “I am convinced that Dwight D. Eisenhower was right when this great American patriot said, ‘Governments seldom solve people’s problems. Governments are necessary and they serve a vital function in society, and we need them. But, normally it is private citizens who solve people’s problems the best. In the business of private citizens solving people’s problems the best, no organization in the history of the human race has the track record of Rotary International.’” King said Rotary International moved mightily to expand the service club in the Middle East after Sept. 11, 2001. He explained they had been trying for many years to establish a club within the United Arab Emirates. “The sheikdoms had resisted because they feared the clubs would tear down the established political government structure,” said King. “Rotary is not interested in tearing down government. Rotary is interested in helping people. “It wasn’t just Americans killed on Sept. 11 ... people from 81 countries were killed and we have Rotary clubs in all of those countries,” he noted. “Our role in fighting global LEGAL NOTICE FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: David A McCausey and Wendi L McCausey, husband and wife to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc as nominee for Flagstar Bank, FSB its successors and assigns , Mortgagee, dated August 4, 2006 and recorded August 11, 2006 in Instrument # 1168493 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: Flagstar Bank, FSB, by assignment dated February 28, 2012 and recorded March 7, 2012 in Instrument # 201203070002351 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ten Thousand Six Hundred Twenty-Two Dollars and Fifty-Six Cents ($110,622.56) including interest 7.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on April 19, 2012 Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The West 48 Feet of Lot 961 of the City, Formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded Plat thereof Commonly known as 126 W Walnut St, Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 3/22/2012 Flagstar Bank, FSB, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-57716 (0322)(04-12) 77566611 terror became massive.” King went on to speak of the worldwide humanitarian help sponsored by Rotary International, including the fight against diseases such as polio and AIDS; against illiteracy and world hunger; providing housing, tree planting and wheelchair distribution. Rotary has been a driving force in the elimination of polio worldwide. King recently went to India for the announcement that the country has been declared polio-free for 12 months. He said Rotary is always asking for its members’ money, always asking for its mem- bers’ time. Then he told a story about a man and his young struggling granddaughter. The man, a Rotarian, asked him, “How did we ever become so lucky to belong to a club that’s always asking us to give?” The man’s newborn granddaughter was being kept alive by a machine that his Rotary Club had donated to the local hospital. “Sooner or later, one way or the other, always and inevitably, it always comes back to you,” said King. “We become the more truly human man, the more truly human woman in the process.” NOTICE OF LETTING OF DRAIN CONTRACT AND DAY OF REVIEW OF APPORTIONMENTS FOR THE ALGONQUIN LAKE DAM IMPROVEMENTS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, That I, Russ Yarger, County Drain Commissioner of the County of Barry, State of Michigan, at the office of the Barry County Drain Commissioner, 220 W. State St., Hastings, Michigan, will receive sealed bids until 10:00 a.m., local time on Wednesday, April 4, 2012, when bids will be publicly opened and read aloud for the improvements of a certain Dam known and designated as “Algonquin Lake Dam” located and established in the Township of Rutland, in said County. In improvements of said Dam, the following approximate quantities and type of pipe, along with appurtenances will be required and contracts let for same: Estimated Quanity Unit Description DAM IMPROVEMENTS 1 L.S. Remove Ex. Outlet Control Structure 60 Lin. Ft. Remove Ex. 36” SLCPP 25 Lin Ft. Remove Ex. 4’ x 12’ Concrete Box culvert 60 Lin. Ft. 36” RCP 25 Lin. Ft. 6’ x 12’ Precast Concrete Box culvert 190 Lin. Ft. Sheet Piling 1 L.S. Outlet Control Structure, complete 1 L.S. Precast Concrete Shed structure 220 Sq. Yd. Remove and Replace Concrete Pavement 60 Sq. Yd. Remove and Replace Bituminous Pavement Restoration 30 Sq. Yd. Plain Riprap 50 Lin. Ft. Remove and Replace Chain Link Fence BOAT RAMP IMPROVEMENTS 25 Sq. Yd. 8 Lin. Ft. 25 Lin Ft. 1 L.S. 20 Lin Ft. 48 Lin. Ft. 12 Cu. Yd. 1 L.S. Remove Existing Boat Launch Remove Ex. Guard Rail Remove Concrete Curb Remove Ex. Access Gate Concrete Curb 4’ x 14’ Precast Concrete Slabs MDOT Type 4AA Coarse Aggregate Access Gate MISCELLANEOUS 1 1 1 1 Erosion Control Measures Traffic Control Seeding Cleanup and Restoration L.S. L.S. L.S. L.S. The bidding documents required for bidding purposes may be obtained from Russ Yarger, the Barry County Drain Commissioner, 220 W. State St., Hastings, Michigan 49058, beginning Tuesday March 20th, 2012. NOTE TO CONTRACTORS A pre-bid meeting will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, the 28th day of March, 2012 at the Barry County Drain Commissioner’s Office, 220 W. State St., Hastings, Michigan 49058. The OWNER and ENGINEER will be present to discuss the project. Prospective bidders are encouraged to attend and participate in the meeting. All bidders must sign in by name of attendee and business represented. Contracts will be made with the lowest responsible bidder giving adequate security for the performance of the work, in the sum as specified in the bidding documents, reserving to myself the right to reject any and all bids, and to adjourn such letting to such time and place as I shall publicly announce. The date for the completion of such contract and the terms of payment are contained in the contract specifications. Any responsible person desiring to bid on the above-mentioned work will be required to deposit Bid Surety in the amount specified in the bidding documents as a guarantee that they will enter into contract and furnish the required bond as prescribed by the contract specifications and by applicable law. All bids shall remain open for one hundred twenty (120) days after the day of the bid opening, but I reserve the right at my sole discretion to release any bid and bid security before that date. NOTICE IS FURTHER HEREBY GIVEN, that on the 13th day of April, 2012, at the office of the Barry County Drain Commissioner, 220 W. State St., Hastings, Michigan 49058, or at such other time and place thereafter, to which I, the County Drain Commissioner aforesaid, may adjourn the same, the apportionment for benefits and the lands comprised within the “Algonquin Lake Dam District”, and the apportionments thereof will be subject to review for one day, from Eight o’clock in the forenoon until Five o’clock in the afternoon. At the meeting to review the apportionment of benefits, the Drain Commissioner will have available to review the tentative apportionments against the parcels and municipalities within the Algonquin Lake Dam District. The computation of costs of the construction of the Algonquin Lake Dam District will also be open for public inspection by any parties interested. The drain assessments against land in the Algonquin Lake Dam District will be collected in the same manner as property taxes. If the drain assessments against land are collected by installment, the landowner may pay the assessments in full with any interest to date at any time and thereby avoid further interest charges. Please contact the Office of the Barry County Drain Commissioner with any questions about payments of drain assessments. Pursuant to Section 155 of the Michigan Drain Code, any owner of land within the drainage district or any city, village, township, district or county feeling aggrieved by the apportionment of benefits made by the drain commissioner, may appeal the apportionment within ten (10) days after the day of review of apportionment by making an application to the Barry County Probate Court for the appointment of a Board of Review. The following is a condensed description of the several tracts or parcels of land constituting the Algonquin Lake Dam District located in the Township of Rutland, County of Barry, State of Michigan and described as follows: Rutland Township, T3N R9W: Section 1 - All of the Southwest 1/4 except the Northeast 1/2 of the Northeast 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 and the Southwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 Section 2 -The South 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4, the Southwest 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4, all of the Southwest 1/4 except for the Southwest 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4, and all of the Southeast 1/4. Section 3 -The Southeast 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4. Section 12 -The north 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 and the Northwest 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4. NOW, THEREFORE, All unknown and non-resident persons, owners and persons interested in the above-described lands, and you: Barry County Clerk; Rutland Township Supervisor; Barry County Road Commissioner; are hereby notified that at the time and place aforesaid, or at such other time and place thereafter to which said letting may be adjourned, I shall proceed to receive bids for the construction of said “Algonquin Lake Dam District” in the manner hereinbefore stated; and, also, that at such time and place as stated above from eight o’clock in the forenoon until five o’clock in the afternoon, the apportionment for benefits and the lands comprised within the Algonquin Lake Dam District will be subject to review. AND YOU AND EACH OF YOU, Owners and persons interested in the aforesaid lands, are hereby cited to appear at the time and place of such reviewing of apportionments as aforesaid, and be heard with respect to such special assessments and your interests in relation thereto, if you so desire. Persons with disabilities needing accommodations for effective participation should contact Russ Yarger, the Barry County Drain Commissioner, at (269) 945-1385, or through the Michigan Relay Center at (800) 649-3777 (TDD) before each meeting to require mobility, visual, hearing or other assistance. This review of apportionments is consistent with Section 154 of the Michigan Drain Code of 1956, as amended. Russ Yarger Barry County Drain Commissioner 77566463 �Page 10 — Thursday, March 22, 2012 — The Hastings Banner TOP 10, continued from page 1 ing, Michigan Mathematics Prize Competition and student council. She has been named the Kiwanis Club Student of the Month and Exchange Club Student of the Month. Denny was junior varsity soccer captain for two years and a member of the varsity soccer team for two years, she also played freshman and JV basketball. In the community, Denny was involved in the Barry County United Way, volunteered at St. Rose vacation Bible school, and YMCA youth basketball. Denny’s college and career plans include attending either Davidson College or Rhodes College to study biology and history before continuing her education in medical school. She hopes to one day become a family physician. Denny said she is most proud of maintaining and balancing everything her activities including school, work, family, friends, and faith. Keith Garber, son of Matt and Colleen Garber of Hastings. Academically, Garber attends the Battle Creek Math and Science Center, earned the AP Scholar Award 2011, has been a member of the National Honor Society for two years and earned an academic letter and pins Garber’s extracurricular activities include Business Professionals of America, Science Olympiad, Quiz Bowl and student council. He has been named Hastings High School Student of the Month and Battle Creek Math and Science Center Student of the Month. Garber participated in freshman and varsity basketball; freshman, JV and varsity baseball; and freshman football. In the community, Garber has participated in First Presbyterian Church’s youth mission trip and other youth volunteer activities, St. Rose community service and Future Saxons Night. Garber’s work experience includes working as a weight room attendant at the Community Education and Recreation Center, yard service, Tri-Clor, and summer construction. He plans to attend Michigan State University to study pre-medicine, attend medical school and become a doctor. Garber said he is most proud of serving as the team captain of the Hastings district basketball championship team. Kathryn Kesler, daughter of Mike and Marge Kesler of Hastings. Academically, Kesler has been a member of the National Honor Society for two years, was named to the Hastings High School Academic Honor Roll and earned an academic letter and pins. She also participates in steel drum, concert and marching band and is in the 21st Century Health Careers Program. Kesler’s extracurricular activities include Science Olympiad, FFA, winter musical, Key Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Youth in Government, tutoring, volunteering at the college fair and parent teacher conferences and serving on the prom committee. She was named Kiwanis Student of the Month and Exchange Club Student of the Month. In the community, Kesler has been involved in the Barry County Chamber Golf Outing, Youth Advisory Council, Paws With a Cause, Pioneer Club, Relay for Life, Love for Lennon, volunteering at vacation Bible school and other youth service activities at Hastings Free Methodist Church and vacation Bible school at First Presbyterian Church, volunteering at the Commission on Aging, volunteering at the free summer lunch program and 4-H. Kesler has worked at Scoobeydoo’s and Kitty Too and at Camp Michawana. She plans to attend Michigan State University where she will major in animal science and pre-veterinarian studies. She ultimately hopes to earn an DVM degree. Kesler said he is most proud of being a reserve champion senior showman in 4-H. Joey Longstreet, son of Cathy and Rob Longstreet. Longstreet attends the Battle Creek Math and Science Center, is a National Merit Scholarship finalist, an AP Scholar with Merit, MHSAA Scholar Athlete finalist, and a two-year member of the National Honor Society. Longstreet’s extracurricular activities include student council, winter musical, Science Olympiad, Key Club and Youth in Government. He played JV and varsity soccer, serving as captain. Longstreet’s community activities include the Barry County Youth Advisory Council, participating in the Thornapple Players productions and volunteering at the Kellogg Biological Station. He hopes to attend Yale in the fall where he will major in chemistry or theater. He said he is most proud of being a part of the outstanding theater department at Hastings High School and having a lead role in two musicals during his senior year. Jena Nedbalek, daughter of Todd and Jennifer Nedbalek. Nedbalek earned an academic letter and pins, was a member of the National Honor Society for two years, and participated in concert, jazz and marching band. Her extracurricular activities include winter musical, fall musical, Key Club, TATU, SADD, Science Olympiad and tutoring. She was also named student of the month. Nedbalek was a member of the JV tennis team. In the community, she volunteered at Pennock Hospital, the local food bank and sings in her church’s choir. Nedbalek plans to attend Northwestern University to pursue a career in pediatric oncology. Nedbalek said she is most proud of her participation in the high school’s music program. Danielle Sherman, daughter of Jim and Jolene Sherman of Hastings. She has been a member of the National Arts Honors Society for one year and a member of the high school band. Her extracurricular activities include SADD and TATU. Sherman has shared her musical abilities with the community by participating in Hastings City Band. She plans to attend Central Michigan University’s honors program and major in math. She said she is most proud of being a band member. Sarah Sleevi, daughter of Tim and Vickie Sleevi of Hastings. Academically, Sleevi has been a member of the National Honor Society for two years; earned an academic letter and pins; and participated in concert, marching and steel drum band. Sleevi’s extracurricular activities include Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Key Club, Spanish Club, SADD, prom committee, tutoring, fall plays and winter musicals. She was named Exchange Club Student of the Month. Sleevi played JV and varsity tennis. In the community, she participated in the Diabetes Dance Marathon, volunteered at St. Rose vacation Bible school, participated in various other youth charitable and community service activities through St. Rose and volunteered at Pennock Hospital. She also participated in the 21st Century Health Careers program at Kellogg Community College and is a member of KCC’s Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. Sleevi plans to attend Wheeling Jesuit University where she has been accepted into the honors college and into the Wheeling Jesuit Singers. Sleevi said she is most proud of her lead role in the high school fall musical. Hannah Smith, daughter of Rich and Molly Smith of Hastings. Academically, Smith has been named a scholar athlete, earned an academic letter and pins and is a member of the National Honor Society. Smith’s extracurricular activities include Key Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, SADD, Business Professionals of America, Youth Quest and tutoring. She has been named a Hastings High School Student of the Month. Smith played freshman and JV volleyball, varsity girls tennis, and was manager of the boys varsity tennis team. In the community, Smith has volunteered as a tutor, a tennis camp counselor at her church’s vacation Bible school and parish festival, and volunteered as an income tax preparer for Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program. She plans to attend Davenport University on a full scholarship to study accounting and become a certified public accountant. Smith said she is most proud of maintaining a grade point average of over 4.0 throughout high school while being involved in clubs and dedicating herself to tennis year-round. Sarah Thornburgh, daughter of Rob and Angie Thornburgh of Hastings. Academically, Thornburgh has been a member of the National Honor Society for two years, has been named a Scholar Athlete and participated in marching and jazz band. Her extracurricular activities include winter musical, Science Olympiad and Key Club. In addition, she has been named Hastings High School Student of the Month, Exchange Club Student of the Month, and won the Daughters of the American Revolution essay contest. Thornburgh played volleyball and varsity tennis, and was manager of the boys tennis team. In the community, Thornburgh volunteered at Pennock Hospital and participates in 4-H. She plans to attend Duke University where she will study biology and chemistry while fulfilling her pre-med requirements. She then plans to attend medical school and become an MD specializing in research-based medicine. Thornburgh said she is most proud of having kept her commitments to groups, activities and school. Dalten White, son of Michael and Kathie White of Hastings. White earned an academic letter and has been a member of the National Honor Society for two years. His extracurricular activities include Key Club, Barry County Youth Leadership Summit, TATU and SADD. Athletically, White was a member of the varsity swim team for three years. In the community, White volunteers with Books for Soldiers, Habitat for Humanity, volunteered at vacation Bible school, and attended Friday morning Bible study. In addition, White has worked as lifeguard at the CERC. He plans to attend Ferris State University to study information security intelligence. White said he is most proud of saving someone’s life while working as a lifeguard at CERC. Hastings City Bank earns five-star rating BAUERFINANCIAL, Inc., Coral Gables, Fla., the nation’s leading bank rating and research firm, recognizes Hastings City Bank, as a superior five-star rated bank. A five-star rating denotes that Hastings City Bank is one of the best in the nation in terms of its overall financial performance. In fact, Hastings City Bank has earned this five-star superior rating for the past nine consecutive quarters. “The recent uproar against big banks has shed a whole new light on community banks, and for good reason,” says Karen L. Dorway, president of BAUERFINANCIAL. “While the primary focus of the big banks is dividend payments, smaller banks tend to be locals and therefore more in tune with the communities they serve. This community focus has paid off as Hastings City Bank has earned Bauer’s highest five-star rating for strength and stability. Established in 1886, Hastings City Bank has served its local communities for 125 years. It currently operates through offices in Bellevue, Caledonia, Hastings, Middleville, Nashville and Wayland and can be found on the Internet at www.hastingscitybank.com. LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Gloria A. Mann, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 26, 2005, and recorded on September 12, 2005 in instrument 1152639, and assigned by said Mortgagee to The Bank of New York Mellon f/k/a The Bank of New York as successor to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as trustee for the benefit of the Certificateholders of Popular ABS, Inc. Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates Series 2005-D as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Five Thousand Eight Hundred Eighty-Nine and 59/100 Dollars ($135,889.59), including interest at 7.65% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on April 12, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the West 1/4 post of section 16, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, Hastings Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence South 89 degrees 45 minutes 46 seconds East 1321.46 feet along the East-West 1/4 line of said section 16 to the Northwest corner of the East 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4 of said section 16 and the Place of Beginning; thence South 89 degrees 45 minutes 46 seconds East along said 1/4 line, 250.40 feet; thence South 14 degrees 52 minutes 57 seconds West 327.22 feet to the centerline of Mill Road; thence North 46 degrees 53 minutes 57 seconds West 228.20 feet along said centerline; thence North 00 degrees 05 minutes 43 seconds East along the West line of said East 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4, 161.35 feet to the Place of Beginning. Subject to an easement for public Highway Purposes over the Southwesterly 33 feet thereof For Mill Road. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 15, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #289357F03 77566484 (03-15)(04-05) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Richard A. Hansma, a married man and Laurie J. KozaHansma, his wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns., Mortgagee, dated September 8, 2004 and recorded September 14, 2004 in Instrument Number 1133890, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Bank of America, N.A., as successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. FKA Countrywide Home Loans Servicing L.P by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Five Thousand Four Hundred Eighty-Five and 86/100 Dollars ($95,485.86) including interest at 6.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on APRIL 19, 2012. Said premises are located in the Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel located in the Township of Thornapple and Village of Middleville, County of Barry, State of Michigan, to wit: Lot 31 of Middleville Downs Addition Number 2 to the Village of Middleville, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 13, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: March 22, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 617.9829 77566601 (03-22)(04-12) AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTIFY US AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by Randall M Royalty , A Single Person, Mortgagors, to Bank of America, N.A., , Mortgagee, dated the 25th day of March, 2009 and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, for The County of Barry and State of Michigan, on the 6th day of April, 2009 in Doc# 20090406-0003820 of Barry County Records, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, the sum of Two Hundred Twenty Eight Thousand Six Hundred Four and 48/100 ($228,604.48), and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on the 19th day of April, 2012 at 1:00 o’clock pm Local Time, said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI (that being the building where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held), of the premises described in said mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due, as aforesaid on said mortgage, with interest thereon at 4.875% per annum and all legal costs, charges, and expenses, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sum or sums which may be paid by the undersigned, necessary to protect its interest in the premises. Which said premises are described as follows: All that certain piece or parcel of land, including any and all structures, and homes, manufactured or otherwise, located thereon, situated in the City of Delton, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and described as follows, to wit: Commencing at the West 1/4 Post of Section 12, T1N; R9W, thence North along the West line of said Section 1389 feet thence East 156 feet to center of Road for true point of beginning, thence N parallel with section line to shore of Fair Lake thence West along Lake shore to a point 50 feet East of West Section line; thence South parallel to said line to center of road; thence Southeasterly along center of road to point of beginning. Excepting and reserving the Southerly 33 feet to be used in common with other adjacent property owners for roadway purposes only. Intended to describe the East 106 feet of the West 156 feet of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 12 lying South of Fair Lake and Northerly of centerline of existing road. During the six (6) months immediately following the sale, the property may be redeemed, except that in the event that the property is determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241a, the property may be redeemed during 30 days immediately following the sale. Pursuant to MCLA 600.3278, the mortgagor(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 3/22/2012 Bank of America, N.A., as successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP, 7105 Corporate Dr., Mail Stop PTX-C35, Plano, TX 75024 Mortgagee FABRIZIO & BROOK, P.C. Attorney for Bank of America, N.A., as successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP, 7105 Corporate Dr., Mail Stop PTX-C35, Plano, TX 75024 888 W. Big Beaver, Suite 800 Troy, Ml 48084 248-362-2600 77566544 BOA FNMA Royalty (03-22)(04-12) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by John R. Haynes, and Theresa L. Haynes, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated December 21, 2007, and recorded on January 8, 2008 in instrument 20080108-0000275, and assigned by said Mortgagee to SunTrust Mortgage, Inc. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Four Thousand Four Hundred Eighteen and 21/100 Dollars ($94,418.21), including interest at 6.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on April 5, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the West 1/4 corner of said Section; thence South 89 degrees 41 minutes 02 seconds East 1317.64 feet along the South line said Northwest 1/4; thence North 00 degrees 33 minutes 17 seconds East 735.00 feet along the West line of the East 1/2 of said Northwest 1/4 to the place of beginning; thence North 00 degrees 33 minutes 17 seconds East 220.00 feet along said West line; thence South 89 degrees 41 minutes 02 seconds East 325.00 feet; thence South 00 degrees 33 minutes 17 seconds West 220.00 feet; thence North 89 degrees 41 minutes 02 seconds West 325.00 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 8, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #390507F01 77566225 (03-08)(03-29) FORECLOSURE NOTICE RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES, P.C. MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. Mortgage Sale - Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by Jack E. Rider, A Single Man to Hamilton Mortgage Company, Mortgagee, dated October 27, 2004, and recorded on November 16, 2004, as Document Number: 1137301, Barry County Records, said mortgage was assigned to Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee, for Carrington Mortgage Loan Trust, Series 2005-NC1 Asset Backed Pass-Through Certificates by an Assignment of Mortgage which has been submitted to the Barry County Register of Deeds, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Seven Thousand Twenty and 57/100 ($77,020.57) including interest at the rate of 6.75000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the Circuit Court in said Barry County, where the premises to be sold or some part of them are situated, at 01:00 PM on March 29, 2012 Said premises are situated in the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 3, Block 6, H.J. Kenfield`s Addition to the City (formerly Village) of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 9. Commonly known as: 708 EAST WALNUT STREET If the property is eventually sold at foreclosure sale, the redemption period will be 6.00 months from the date of sale unless the property is abandoned or used for agricultural purposes. If the property is determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 and/or 600.3241a, the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of sale, or 15 days after statutory notice, whichever is later. If the property is presumed to be used for agricultural purposes prior to the date of the foreclosure sale pursuant to MCL 600.3240, the redemption period is 1 year. Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages are, if any, limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: March 1, 2012 Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee, for Carrington Mortgage Loan Trust, Series 2005-NC1 Asset Backed Pass-Through Certificates 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302, (248) 335-9200 Case No. 12MI00227-1 (0377566183 01)(03-22) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 22, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Matthew Bourdo, a married man and Lucy Bourdo, as to her dower and homestead rights, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated March 14, 2005, and recorded on March 22, 2005 in instrument 1143017, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-Seven Thousand Eight Hundred Forty-One and 78/100 Dollars ($167,841.78), including interest at 5.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 29, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the North 1/4 Post of Section 20, Town 2 North, range 10 West, Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michgian, thence East 615.78; thence South 697.62 feet; thence North 60 degrees West 75.90 feet; thence North 59 degrees 06 minutes 53 seconds West 462.56 feet to the place of beginning of this description; thence South 29 degrees 53 minutes 44 seconds West 347.40 feet; thence North 58 degrees West 173.63 feet; thence North 35 degrees 25 minutes 19 seconds East 345.05 feet; thence South 59 degrees 06 minutes 53 seconds East 140.31 feet the placeof beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 1, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #241719F03 77566135 (03-01)(03-22) FORECLOSURE NOTICE RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES, P.C. MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. Mortgage Sale - Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by PATRICK W ELLIOTT AND MARY A ELLIOTT, HUSBAND AND WIFE to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. acting solely as a nominee for First Franklin Financial Corp., An Op. Sub. of MLB&T Co., FSB, Mortgagee, dated May 18, 2007, and recorded on June 25, 2007, as Document Number: 1182161, Barry County Records, said mortgage was assigned to U.S. BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE TO BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., AS SUCCESSOR TO LASALLE BANK, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR THE MERRILL LYNCH FIRST FRANKLIN MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST, MORTGAGE LOAN ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-4 by an Assignment of Mortgage dated December 01, 2007 and recorded January 14, 2008 by Document Number: 20080114-0000394, , on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Six Thousand Eight Hundred Fourteen and 02/100 ($66,814.02) including interest at the rate of 6.05000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the Circuit Court in said Barry County, where the premises to be sold or some part of them are situated, at 01:00 PM on April 19, 2012 Said premises are situated in the Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 4 and the West half of Lot 5 of BARRETT ACRES Plat, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 4 of Plats on page 30, Barry County Records. Also, beginning at the Northwest corner of said Lot 4 of the recorded Plat of BARRETT ACRES; thence South 89 degrees 18 minutes East on the North line of Lot 4, 100 feet; thence North 134 feet; thence North 89 degrees 18 minutes West 100 feet; thence South 134 feet to the place of beginning. Being part of the Northwest quarter of Section 5, Town 1 North, Range 9 West. Commonly known as: 239 ORCHARD ST If the property is eventually sold at foreclosure sale, the redemption period will be 6.00 months from the date of sale unless the property is abandoned or used for agricultural purposes. If the property is determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 and/or 600.3241a, the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of sale, or 15 days after statutory notice, whichever is later. If the property is presumed to be used for agricultural purposes prior to the date of the foreclosure sale pursuant to MCL 600.3240, the redemption period is 1 year. Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages are, if any, limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: March 22, 2012 Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for U.S. BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE TO BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., AS SUCCESSOR TO LASALLE BANK, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR THE MERRILL LYNCH FIRST FRANKLIN MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST, MORTGAGE LOAN ASSETBACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-4 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills,MI 48302,(248)335-9200 Case No. 12MI00471-1 (0377566606 22)(04-12) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Norman H. Royston, unmarried, original mortgagor(s), to Bank of America, N.A., Mortgagee, dated June 25, 2008, and recorded on July 11, 2008 in instrument 20080711-0007102, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Forty-Three Thousand Four Hundred Ninety-Nine and 71/100 Dollars ($143,499.71), including interest at 6% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on April 5, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Northeast corner of the Southeast fractional 1/4 of Section 25, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, Hasting Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence South to the Northerly line of Michigan Central Railroad right-of-way; thence in a Southwesterly direction along said rightof-way 255 feet to the place of beginning; thence Southwesterly along said right-of-way 45 feet; thence Northwesterly at a 90 degree angle to said right-of-way to the lake; thence Northeasterly along the lake 45 feet; thence Southeasterly to the place of beginning. Also a strip of land being former raid road right-of-way situated in the County of Barry, Hasting Township being part of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 25, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, located over and across or adjacent to the property hereinbefore described The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 8, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #398120F01 77566231 (03-08)(03-29) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by ELMER HAAKSMA and ALICE HAAKSMA, husband and wife (collectively, "Mortgagor"), to BYRON BANK, now known as CHEMICAL BANK, a Michigan banking corporation, having an office at 333 E. Main Street, Midland, Michigan 48640-6511 (the "Mortgagee"), dated November 29, 2005, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on December 12, 2005, as Instrument No. 1157537 (the "Mortgage"). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgagee is the owner of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage. Mortgage Electronic Registration System (MERS) is not the sole foreclosing party. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Five Hundred Thirty-Two Thousand Three Hundred Eight and 43/100 Dollars ($532,308.43). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 12th day of April, 2012, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the Township of Yankee Springs, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: Lot(s) 95, Sunrise Shores No. 2, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 98. Together with all the improvements erected on the real estate, and all easements, appurtenances, and fixtures a part of the property, and all replacements and additions. Commonly known as: 12711 Sunrise Court, Wayland, Michigan 49348 P.P. #08-16-220-095-00 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys the premises at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee for damaging the premises during the redemption period. Dated: March 15, 2012 CHEMICAL BANK Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2487 (616) 752-2000 77566442 7656530-1 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Gregory M. Gillson and Cheryl L. Gillson, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated October 24, 2001, and recorded on November 1, 2001 in instrument 1069072, in Barry county records, Michigan, and assigned by said Mortgagee to M&T Bank as assignee, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Seven Thousand Four Hundred Five and 06/100 Dollars ($97,405.06), including interest at 7.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on April 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 16, Old Farm Village, according to the recorded Plat thereof in Liber 6 of Plats, on Page 22 Barry County Records The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 22, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #395848F01 77566596 (03-22)(04-12) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Wendell Armour, Jr. and Brenda Armour, husband and wife as joint tenants, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Alternative Lending Group, its successors or assigns, Mortgagee, dated May 1, 2001 and recorded August 3, 2001 in Instrument Number 1064146, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by GMAC Mortgage, LLC successor by merger to GMAC Mortgage Corporation by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Eight Thousand Nine Hundred Seventy-Three and 85/100 Dollars ($88,973.85) including interest at 7.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on APRIL 12, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The land referred to in this Commitment, situated in the County of Barry, Township of Rutland, State of Michigan, is described as follows: Beginning at a point on the North-South 1/4 line of Section 34, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, Rutland Township, Barry County, Michigan distant South 01 degree 17 minutes 42 seconds East, 1838.59 feet from the North 1/4 corner of said Section 34; thence South 01 degree 17 minutes 42 seconds East 255.00 feet along said North-South 1/4 line; thence South 89 degrees 54 minutes 46 seconds East 740.77 feet; thence North 01 degree 17 minutes 42 seconds West, 255.00 feet; thence North 88 degrees 54 minutes 46 seconds West, 740.77 feet to the point of beginning. Subject to an easement for public highway purposes. For highway M-43 as described in Liber 142 of Deeds on Page 49. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: March 15, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 618.8146 (03-15)(04-05) 77566428 NOTICE OF JUDICIAL FORECLOSURE SALE Andrew J. Thomas TROTT & TROTT, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy., Ste. 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE IF YOU ARE A BORROWER ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTENTION PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the circuit court at the request of the plaintiff. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest, as determined by the court. Barry County Circuit Court Case No. 10-618-CH NOTICE OF JUDICIAL SALE JUDICIAL SALE IN PURSUANCE and by virtue of a Judgment of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on the12th day of January, 2012, in a certain cause therein pending, wherein HSBC Mortgage Services, Inc., was the Plaintiff and Jeff Schantz was the defendant. The aforementioned judgment established a debt owing to plaintiff in the amount of $127,979.10, plus post-judgment interest at an annual rate of 8.125 % and other amounts recoverable pursuant to said judgment. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that in order to satisfy said judgment, in whole or in part, the property described below shall be sold at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, located at 220 W. State St., Hastings, Michigan (that being the building in which the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held) on Thursday the 29th of March, 2012 at 1 pm, local time. On said day at said time, the following described property located in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, shall be sold: The West 1/2 of Lots 1302 and 1303 of the City, Formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof. Tax Parcel ID: 08-55-201447-00 More commonly known as: 227 W South Street REDEMPTION PERIOD IS SIX MONTHS. Dated: February 9, 2012 Mark Sheldon Deputy Sheriff For more information please call 248-6422515. Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys for Plaintiff 31440 Northwestern Hwy., Ste. 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 File No. 329389L02 (02-09)(03-22) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTENTION PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain Mortgage made between WALTER L. CHURCH and STEPHANIE S. CHURCH, husband and wife, whose address is 547 Meadow Lane, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagor, and ICNB MORTGAGE COMPANY LLC, a Michigan limited liability company, whose address is 302 West Main Street, Ionia, Michigan 48846, as Mortgagee, dated June 24, 2009, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on June 29, 2009, in Document No. 200906290006711, upon which Mortgage is claimed to be due at the date of this notice the sum of ONE HUNDRED THIRTY-FOUR THOUSAND FOUR HUNDRED EIGHTY-SIX AND 21/100 ($134,486.21) DOLLARS, and no suit or proceedings at law or equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said Mortgage, or any part thereof; NOW, THEREFORE, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said Mortgage, and pursuant to the statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on April 5, 2012, at 1:00 p.m., said Mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse, 220 West State Street in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, Michigan (that being the building where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held) of the premises described in said Mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due of said Mortgage, with interest thereon at 4.875% per annum, and all legal costs, expenses and charges, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sums which may be paid by the undersigned to protect its interest in the premises, which said premises are described as follows: Land situated in the Township of Hastings, County of Barry and State of Michigan, to-wit: Lot 28 of the Plat of Fairhaven, according to the Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 45, Barry County Records, EXCEPT the West 311 feet of the North 294.75 feet of Lot 28 of the Plat of Fairhaven; together with ingress and egress over certain property described in the deed recorded in Liber 372, Page 522, as modified by Quit Claim Deed recorded in Liber 641, Page 673; ALSO the East 20 feet of the West 311 feet of the North 294.75 feet of Lot 28 of the Plat of Fairhaven as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 45, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of such sale, unless Mortgagor provides notice that the property is agricultural in accordance with MCL 600.3240(17), in which case the redemption period shall be one (1) year, or unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be thirty (30) days from the date of such sale. If the property described in this Notice is sold at the foreclosure sale referred to above, the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the purchaser who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period in accordance with MCL 600.3278 or as otherwise provided by law. ICNB MORTGAGE COMPANY LLC Mortgagee Dated this 1st day of March, 2012. TIMOTHY L. CURTISS, Esq. Braun Kendrick Finkbeiner P.L.C. 304 East Broadway, Suite 206 Mt. Pleasant, Michigan 48858 77566151 989/775-7404 Notice of Foreclosure Sale THIS LAW FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. MORTGAGE SALE - Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by Richard L. Warner and Judy A. Warner of Barry County, Michigan, Mortgagors, unto Consumers Credit Union, Mortgagee, dated the 27th day of August, 2004, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deed for the County of Barry and State of Michigan on the 3rd day of September, 2004, in Liber 1133469 of Barry County Records, on Pages 1-9, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, at the date of this notice, for principal and interest, the sum of $206,684.32. And no suit or proceeding at law or in equity have been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to the statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on Thursday, April 19, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. local time, said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder or bidders, for cash at the Barry County Courthouse, Hastings, Michigan, that being the place where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held, of the premises described in said mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due, as aforesaid on said mortgage, with interest thereon at 8.99% per annum and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and also any sum or sums which may be paid by the undersigned, necessary to protect its interest in the premises, which said premises are situated in the Township of Barry, County of Barry, and described as follows: Commencing at the North 1/4 post of Section 8, Town 1 North, Range 9 West; Thence South 01 degree 21 minutes 00 seconds East along the North and South 1/4 line of said Section, 1320.96 feet; Thence South 89 degrees 50 minutes 00 seconds East along the North line of the South 1/2 of the Northeast 1/4 of said Section 8, a distance of 813.47 feet; Then South 37 degrees 13 minutes 48 seconds East, 95.34 feet; Thence South 34 degrees 25 minutes 30 seconds East, 112.31 feet; Thence South 39 degrees 29 minutes 34 seconds East, 62.81 feet; Thence South 40 degrees 47 minutes 17 seconds East, 20.46 feet; Then South 42 degrees 14 minutes 35 seconds East, 515.75 feet; Thence South 52 degrees 43 minutes 27 seconds East, 169.55 feet to the true place of beginning; Thence North 36 degrees 38 minutes 32 seconds East, 113.03 feet to a traverse line along the shore of Pleasant Lake; Thence South 63 degrees 42 minutes 41 seconds East, along said traverse line 54.00 feet to the end of said traverse line; Thence South 38 degrees 05 minutes 37 seconds West, 123.33 feet; Thence North 52 degrees 43 minutes 27 seconds West, 50.00 feet to the place of beginning. Intending to include all land between the above described traverse line and the waters edge of Pleasant Lake. Together with and subject to: Easement 1: An easement for ingress and egress over a strip of land 30 feet wide described as: commencing at the North 1/4 post of Section 8, Town 1 North, Range 9 West; Thence South 01 degree 21 minutes 00 seconds East along the North and South 1/4 line of said Section, 1320.96 feet to the place of beginning; Thence South 89 degrees 50 minutes 00 seconds East along the North line of the South 1/2 of the Northeast 1/4 of said Section 8, a distance of 813.47 feet; Thence South 37 degrees 13 minutes 48 seconds East, 37.76 feet; Thence North 89 degrees 50 minutes 00 seconds West, 835.61 feet to said North and South 1/4 line; Thence North 01 degree 21 minutes 00 seconds West along said 1/4 line, 30.01 feet to the place of beginning. Easement 2: An easement for ingress and egress over a strip of land 16.50 feet wide described as: commencing at the North 1/2 post of Section 8, Town 1 North, Range 9 West; Thence South 01 degree 21 minutes 00 seconds East along the North and South 1/4 line of said Section, 1320.96 feet; Thence South 89 degrees 50 minutes 00 seconds East along the North line of the South 1/2 of the Northeast 1/4 of said Section 8, a distance of 813.47 feet; Thence South 37 degrees 13 minutes 48 seconds East, 37.76 feet to the true place of beginning; Thence South 37 degrees 13 minutes 38 seconds East 57.57 feet; Thence South 34 degrees 25 minutes 30 seconds East, 112.31 feet; Thence South 39 degrees 29 minutes 34 seconds East, 62.81 feet; Thence South 40 degrees 47 minutes 17 seconds East, 176.21 feet; Thence South 42 degrees 14 minutes 35 seconds East, 360.00 feet; Thence South 52 degrees 43 minutes 26 seconds East, 269.55 feet; Thence South 59 degrees 00 minutes 18 seconds East, 200.00 feet; Thence South 43 degrees 36 minutes 32 seconds West, 16.91 feet; Thence North 59 degrees 00 minutes 18 seconds West, 197.21 feet; Thence North 52 degrees 43 minutes 26 seconds West, 271.97 feet; Thence North 42 degrees 14 minutes 35 seconds West, 361.65 feet; Thence North 40 degrees 47 minutes 17 seconds West, 176.67 feet; Thence North 39 degrees 29 minutes 34 seconds West, 63.37 feet; Thence North 34 degrees 25 minutes 30 seconds West, 112.64 feet; Thence North 37 degrees 13 minutes 48 seconds West, 69.78 feet; Thence South 89 degrees 50 minutes 00 seconds East, 20.76 feet to the place of beginning. Property address: 11389 S. West Shore Drive, Delton, MI 49046 The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241 a, in which case the redemption period shall be thirty days from the date of such sale. Dated: March 8, 2012 Tyren R. Cudney (P46638) Attorney for Mortgagee DRAFTED BY: Tyren R. Cudney Lennon, Miller, O’Connor & Bartosiewicz, PLC. 900 Comerica Building Kalamazoo, MI 49007/(269) 381-8844 77566392 �Page 12 — Thursday, March 22, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Hastings alum authors biography of Victorian-era clergyman Tom Isham, a graduate of Hastings High School and longtime employee of J-Ad Graphics, is the author of the recently released A Born Again Episcopalian: The Evangelical Witness of Charles Pettit McIlvaine. The biography, published by Solid Ground Christian Books of Alabama, discusses in detail the life and thoughts of a noted Victorian churchman. Though born to a prominent Eastern family, the cultivated McIlvaine served as bishop of Ohio from 1832 to 1873 during which he gained recognition as a distinguished leader, scholar, preacher, theologian, revivalist, educator, patriot, diplomat and saint. “When I first came across McIlvaine’s name, I was immediately intrigued by what I read,” says Isham. “One thing led to another, and I was soon immersed in research about this remarkable figure. The more I discovered, the more I became convinced that his story needed to be told.” Isham says his book is the first since the 19th century devoted wholly to McIlvaine. “Not only did I have this subject largely to myself, I discovered that McIlvaine’s archives were housed at Kenyon College in Gambier, Ohio,” relates Isham. “So, instead of having to travel great distances to find the material, I merely had to drive to central Ohio.” After a frustrating hunt for a publisher interested enough in the work to back the venture, Isham happened upon Solid Ground Christian Books, a piece of luck he prefers to view as a “happy turn of Providence.” Isham’s research shows that McIlvaine’s varied abilities reached beyond church circles. Early in the American Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln chose McIlvaine to serve as a special envoy during the critical Trent Affair. McIlvaine interceded on behalf of the Union to help derail British recognition of the Confederacy and, owing to a surprising turn of events, helped defuse a potential war between the United States and Britain. “He was a great man and a great Christian,” says Isham. “I am fortunate to have been able to tell his story.” Isham, son of the late Garrett and Gertrude Isham, is a 1966 graduate of Hastings High School. For 27 years, he edited the Community AdVisor in Marshall, a publication of J-Ad Graphics. A licensed lay preacher of the Diocese of West Michigan, Isham is a conservative Episcopalian active in a variety of church-related causes. Isham’s previous books include The Geography of the Soul and A Christian Spiritual Psychology. His latest book may be obtained by visiting the website of Solid Ground Christian Books or by calling the publisher at 205-443-0311. Tom Isham is the former editor of the Marshall AdVisor-Chronicle. LEGAL NOTICES Synopsis Hastings Charter Township Regular Meeting March 13, 2012 Meeting called to order at 7:00 pm Pledge and roll call All board members present, 3 guests Public comment- Frank Campbell intro. Approved February minutes & Various dept. reports Commissioner’s report rec’d Treasurer’s report approved Clerk’s - elections Mercy Ambulance contract Approved payment of warrants Board member comments Approved motion to adjourn 8:41 pm Read full minutes on twp. website Respectfully submitted, Anita S Mennell – Clerk Attested to by 77566555 Jim Brown – Supervisor STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-26053 DE Estate of Roy Samuel Stout, Sr. (aka Roy S. Stout, Sr., aka Roy S. Stout, aka Sam Stout), Deceased. Date of birth; 10/14/1942. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Roy Samuel Stout, Sr. (aka Roy S. Stout, Sr., aka Roy S. Stout, aka Sam Stout), died 10/21/2011. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Kathleen J. A. Stout and Roy S. Stout, Jr., named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West Court Street, Suite 302, Hastings and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. KREIS, ENDERLE, HUDGINS & BORSOS, P.C. Date: March 16, 2012 J. Ryan Conboy P58590 P.O. Box 4010 Kalamazoo, MI 49003-4010 (269) 324-3000 Kathleen J. A. Stout and Roy S. Stout Jr. 135 Welcome Road 7095 S. Broadway Hastings, MI 49058 Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 945-5800 (269) 924-2583 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Nicholas D. Blakely, a married man and Tiffany C. Blakely, signing for sole purpose of waiving her dower and homestead rights, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated November 30, 2005, and recorded on December 13, 2005 in instrument 1157561, and assigned by said Mortgagee to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Two Thousand Two Hundred Fifty-Two and 59/100 Dollars ($102,252.59), including interest at 7.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on April 12, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 10 of R.B. Gregg Addition, Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan according to the recorded plat thereof as recorded in Liber 1 of plats, Page 13, Barry County Records The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 15, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #345976F02 77566309 (03-15)(04-05) STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-026051-DE Estate of William Charles Torrey. Date of birth: 06/23/1952. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, William Charles Torrey, died 10/08/2011. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Connie Torrey, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West Court St., Ste. 302, Hastings, MI 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 03/12/2012 Jonathan W. Willoughby P39632 8051 Moorsbridge Road Portage, MI 49024 (269) 323-3400 Connie Torrey 4414 Orchard St. Delton, MI 49046-9527 77566553 (269) 623-8929 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-26068 DE Estate of MARGERY A. MARTIN, Deceased. Date of birth: 01/01/1938. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Margery A. Martin, died 12/17/2011. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Michael N. Martin, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West Court Street, Suite 302, Hastings and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 03/20/2012 James W. Porter P38791 7275 West Main Street Kalamazoo, MI 49009 (269) 375-7195 Michael N. Martin 14609 W. 53rd Terrance Shawnee, KS 66216 77566551 (913) 631-4660 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-26031-DE Estate of Mildred I. Sloan, Deceased. Date of birth: 08/30/1928. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Mildred I. Sloan, who lived at 1300 Mixed Road, Hastings, Michigan died 12/11/2011. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Brandi M. Lydy, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West Court Street, Suite 302, Hastings and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 03/15/2012 Robert L. Byington P27621 222 West Apple Street, P.O. Box 248 Hastings, Michigan 49058 (269) 945-9557 Brandy M. Lydy 619 South Hayes Street 77566540 Hastings, Michigan 49058 Case No. 10-274-CH CIRCUIT COURT SALE In pursuance and by virtue of a Judgment of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on September 16, 2011, U.S. Bank National Association ND in a certain cause therein pending, wherein U.S. Bank National Association ND was the Plaintiff and Robert J. Stauffer and Shannon J. Stauffer, husband and wife were the Defendants. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that I shall sell at public auction to the highest bidder, at public venue, at the at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI, that being the place of holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, on the 5th day of April, A.D., 2012, at 1:00:00 PM o’clock in the forenoon, Eastern Standard Time, the following described property, towit: All certain piece or parcel of land situated in the Village of Middleville, County of Barry and State of Michigan, described as follows: Situated in the Village of Middleville, County of Barry and State of Michigan: Lots 6, 7 and 8 of Block 59 of the Village of Middleville, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats on Page 27, City of Middleville, County of Barry, Michigan as recorded in Liber 1, Page 27 of Plats, Barry County Records and that parcel of land commencing at the Northwest corner of Lot 8, Block 59 in the plat of Village of Middleville, thence South 65.98 feet along the West line of said Lot 8; thence West 5.0 feet along the North line of Lot 11, Block 59; thence North 65.98 feet parallel to the West line of Lot 8; thence East 5 feet to the point of beginning. Commonly known as: 302 Cherry Street This property may be redeemed during the six months following the sale. Dated: February 16, 2012 Mark Sheldon Deputy Sheriff WELTMAN, WEINBERG & REIS CO., L.P.A. Stuart A. Best (P-40744) Attorney for Plaintiff 2155 Butterfield Drive Suite 200-S Troy, MI 48084/WWR#10032301 (02-16)(03-29) 77565846 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Timothy B. Priemer, an unmarried man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 31, 2006, and recorded on September 6, 2006 in instrument 1169562, and assigned by said Mortgagee to PHH Mortgage Corporation as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Four Thousand Eight Hundred Eighty-Five and 48/100 Dollars ($104,885.48), including interest at 7.833% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on April 12, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 12 of Smith's Lakeview Estates No. 1 according to the recorded plat thereof as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats on Page 2, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 15, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #393109F01 (03-15)(04-05) 77566437 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Brian Hannan, a single man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 18, 2005, and recorded on February 10, 2005 in instrument 1141308, and rerecorded on April 6, 2005 in instrument 1144424, and assigned by said Mortgagee to CitiMortgage, Inc. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Six Thousand Fifty-Seven and 51/100 Dollars ($86,057.51), including interest at 3.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on March 29, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The South of 1/2 of Lots 1 and 2, Block 19, Eastern Addition, according to the recorded plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 1, 2012 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #372178F01 77566130 (03-01)(03-22) STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 2012-26069-DE Estate of DONALD S. SMITH, Deceased. Date of birth: 12/1/1929. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Donald S. Smith, died July 18, 2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Steven M. Smith, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court Street, Suite 302, Hastings, MI 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: March 14, 2012 Michael J. Toth P36310 One West Michigan Avenue Battle Creek, MI 49017 269-966-3000 Steven M. Smith 10491 Huff Road Bellevue, MI 49021 77566525 269-317-9449 NOTICE TO BORROWER PURSUANT TO MCL 600.3205a(4) THIS FIRM MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. NOTICE is hereby provided to the Borrower(s) regarding the property located at 8700 West Lawrence Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. State law requires that you receive the following notice: You have the right to request a meeting with the mortgage holder or mortgage servicer. Pursuant to MCL 600.3205a(1)(c), Ocwen Loan Servicing LLC has designated the Loan Modification Department of Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 at (248) 883-0157 as its agent to serve as the contact under MCL sections 600.3205a-3205c and has the authority to make agreements for a loan modification pursuant to MCL sections 600.3205b and 600.3205c. You may contact a housing counselor by visiting the Michigan State Housing Development Authority's website at http://www.michigan.gov/mshda or by calling 1-800-A-SHELTER, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, year-round. If you request a meeting with the designated agent, foreclosure proceedings will not start until 90 days after the notice required by MCL 600.3205a was mailed to your last known address, subject to the provisions of MCL 600.3205b. If an agreement to modify the mortgage is reached and you abide by the terms of the agreement, the mortgage will not be foreclosed. You have the right to contact an attorney. If you do not have an attorney, the telephone number for the Michigan State Bar Lawyer Referral Service is (800) 9680738. Notice given by: Randall S. Miller Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 248-883-0157 (Loan Modification Dept.) loanmods@rsmalaw.com Case No. 12OMI00366-1 Dated: March 22, 2012 (03-22) 77566557 SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by KALEE N. HUFF, A SINGLE WOMAN and CHRISTOPHER J. TAYLOR, A SINGLE MAN, to WOLVERINE BANK, Mortgagee, dated October 27, 2008, and recorded on October 29, 2008, in Document No. 20081029-0010582, and assigned by said mortgagee to MICHIGAN STATE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eighteen Thousand Five Hundred Fifty-Eight Dollars and Twenty-Three Cents ($118,558.23), including interest at 5.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on April 5, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: LOT 6 AND THE SOUTH 3 FEET OF LOT 1, BLOCK 8, DANIEL STRIKER'S ADDITION TO THE CITY, FORMERLY VILLAGE OF HASTINGS, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF AS RECORDED IN LIBER 1 OF PLATS ON PAGE 11, BARRY COUNTY RECORDS. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. MICHIGAN STATE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY Mortgagee/ Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 77566321 48335 USBW.001309 (03-08)(03-29) SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by CHARLES C. FLANAGAN JR and JENNIFER C. FLANAGAN, HUSBAND AND WIFE, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated June 11, 2007, and recorded on June 26, 2007, in Document No. 1182207, and assigned by said mortgagee to FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eleven Thousand Eight Hundred Twenty-Five Dollars and Five Cents ($111,825.05), including interest at 5.250% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on March 29, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: THE NORTH 220 FEET OF THE SOUTH 880 FEET OF THE WEST 208 FEET OF THE NORTHEAST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 18, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 77566208 LBPS.001747 (03-01)(03-22) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Justin Lowell Morgan and Rebecca Lynn Morgan, Husband and Wife to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Homeland Mortgage Company, its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated September 9, 2005 and recorded September 28, 2005 in Instrument # 1153525 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: CitiMortgage, Inc., by assignment dated January 30, 2012 and recorded February 10, 2012 in Instrument # 201202100001458 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Five Thousand Nine Hundred Twenty Dollars and Sixty-Eight Cents ($85,920.68) including interest 6.89% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on April 12, 2012 Said premises are situated in Village of Freeport, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 4, Block 7, Samuel Roush's Addition, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 23, Barry County Records. Commonly known as 236 S East St, Freeport MI 49325 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 3/15/2012 CitiMortgage, Inc., Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-56979 (0377566472 15)(04-05) GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 22, 2012 — Page 13 Hastings Middle School students win medals at regional Science Olympiad The team of Matthew Maurer, Becky Maurer and Connor Wales takes first in Mission Possible. Hastings Middle School Science Olympiad members include (front row, from left) Becky Maurer, Adam Shaeffer, Emma Beemer, Jazmine Heath, Bridgett Woolf, Leigha Saur, Emily Pattok, Reilly Former, Jonathan Hickman (middle) Josh Ulrich, Tannis Thayer, Anna Pattok, Chris Davis, Matthew Maurer, Joel Shinavier, Katie Pohl, Zoe Campbell, Camille VanDien, Ashley Glumm, Caroline Garrison (back) Aaron Denny, Jack Longstreet, Connor Wales, Morgan Tolles, Justin Carlson, Cody Ulrich, Noah Wilson. (Not pictured Brandon Miner and Julianna Wolf Twenty-six Hastings Middle School students spent the better part of Saturday, March 17, wearing shades of blue and gold as they represented their school in the Region 10 Michigan Science Olympiad competition. They were among 17 middle school teams in the competition at Western Michigan University. Students have been preparing since last December for this competition, said Hastings Middle School Science Olympiad Coach. Ann Beemer. They have met every week for practice and attended an invitational at Allendale Middle School in preparation for this event. The Middle School Saxon Science team placed fourth. Earning first-place medals in their events were Aaron Denny and Matthew Maurer for Mousetrap Vehicle; and Matthew Maurer, Becky Maurer and Connor Wales for Mission Possible. Second place medals were earned by Ashley Glumm and Becky Maurer for Crime Busters; Justin Carlson and Jack Longstreet for Dynamic Planet; and Becky Maurer and Adam Shaeffer for Compute This. Third-place medals were brought home by Aaron Denny and Morgan Tolles for Water Quality; Reilly Former and Emily Pattok for Keep the Heat; Caroline Garrison and Justin Carlson for meteorology; Caroline Garrison and Ashley Glumm for Disease Detective; Matthew Maurer and Reilly Former for bottle rockets; and Jack Longstreet and Morgan Tolles for Storm the Castle. Earning fourth-place ribbons were Morgan Tolles, Jack Longstreet and Connor Wales for Experimental Design; Caroline Garrison and Ashley Glumm for anatomy; Zoe Campbell and Camille VanDien for food science; and Aaron Denny and Matthew Maurer for optics. Aaron Denny and Matthew Maurer take first place in Mousetrap Vehicle. Tannis Thayer (from left), Josh Ulrich and Experimental Design competition. Fifth-place ribbons were awarded to Katie Pohl and Jazmine Heath for Microbe Mission; Jazmine Heath and Josh Ulrich for Compute This; Reilly Former and Emily Pattok for Write It -Do It; and Becky Maurer and Adam Shaeffer for towers. Earning sixth-place ribbons in their events were Ashley Glumm and Becky Maurer for Microbe Mission, Zoe Campbell and Camille VanDien for Awesome Aquifers; and Emily Pattok and Anna Pattok for rocks and minerals. “These events require students to take tests, perform laboratory experiments or build devices to compete with,” said Beemer. “There is a great deal of time that goes into Chris Davis work together in the each event. These students worked very hard to earn their awards. I am very proud of each and every one of them.” Students are able to participate at no cost due to a grant from the Hastings Education Enrichment Foundation. “I am grateful that we have such an outpouring of support from our community for these types of extra-curricular academic programs that are so vital to the development of our students,” she said. The top two teams in the regional event — Hamilton Middle School and Holland Christian Middle School — are invited to the state competition at Michigan State University in April. Hastings Rotary hears about orphanages in Mexico by David DeDecker Staff Writer Hastings Rotarians gathered March 19 to hear about work being done by a local Central Michigan University student Ashley Vance. Vance was introduced by Barry County Chamber and Economic Development Alliance President Valerie Byrnes, who is also her mother. Vance is a senior at CMU, earning a bachelor’s degree in social work. She plans to continue on in pursuit of a master’s degree. As part of a CMU program, Vance traveled to Mexico for three weeks in the spring of 2011. The study trip usually includes 16 students and two professors. The students are most commonly majoring in social work, human development or education. For the 2011 trip, the students brought educational materials and raised money to buy shoes for each of the orphans. “There is a very large disparity between rich and poor in Oaxaca,” said Vance. “While we were there, we were able to experience all parts of the city. The group’s first visit was to Josefino, an orphanage run by a group of six nuns, who have lived most of their lives there. More than 50 orphans live at Josefino, ranging in age from toddlers to older teenagers. All the orphans attend school. The second orphanage, Casa Hogar, was Vance’s primary study site. “It was founded in 1974 by a quadriplegic named Albert, who came from the United States. It is a nonprofit Christian ministry, so they partner with a church here in the U.S. This is the orphanage in which most of the children have come from extreme poverty. Many of the children have disabilities, which makes it unique compared to the other orphanages,” she said. “About 50 percent of the kids have disabilities, and they come from all over Mexico.” Cerebral palsy is the most common disability among the children there, she said, followed by blindness and learning disabilities. Vance said many of the children arriving at the orphanage do not know Spanish, but speak only their local dialects, so they need to be taught Spanish when they arrive. “Also, kids from the surrounding community come to the school at the orphanage,” said Vance. “So, not only are they serving the 50 kids who live there, but also the 50 to 100 community kids who come into the orphanage for school. “It is run by a woman named Carol, and she is part of the church here in the United States. She started out as a volunteer, but fell in love with the place, as I did. “We had a chance to meet a man named Beto. He was actually the first child to come to the orphanage. He is blind and still living there. He helps out any way he can. Beto is amazing with music, and the kids respond. There are four blind children who connect with him very well. One of the blind children, when he came to the orphanage he was half the size of the other kids. When the found him, he was tied to a tree. He can’t talk, but responds well to music.” The orphanage provides all basic needs for the children including clothing, food, lodging and education. “Each child gets one new outfit and a toy for their birthday each year. If they are lucky, they get one shower a week — just because that is the kind of resources they have. Vance is still raising money to provide clothing, food and educational materials for the orphanages. Another trip is scheduled this summer, and Vance plans to participate. Her future plans are to work with at-risk and underserved children in the U.S. and around the world. For more information on how to donate, call Valerie Byrnes, 269-945-2454. Central Michigan University senior Ashley Vance presents a program to the Hastings Rotary Club about her work at orphanages in Oaxaca, Mexico. Jonathan Hickman (left) and Noah Wilson work together on a written test. �Page 14 — Thursday, March 22, 2012 — The Hastings Banner House destroyed by fire on Walnut Street Firefighters combat a house fire at 117 E. Walnut St. in Hastings March 18. (Photo courtesy of Terry Stenzelbarton) COURT NEWS Robert Hugh Simmons, 47, of Hastings was sentenced March 15 for assault harm less than murder and assault with a weapon. He was ordered to serve 10 months in jail, with credit for 127 days served. He must pay $2,266 in costs and serve 36 months on probation. Simmons is ordered to have no contact with the victim unless approved by a probation officer. He must attend Alcoholics Anonymous and cognitive behavior therapy and complete an anger management class. Charges of criminal sexual conduct, first degree causing personal injury, and criminal sexual conduct with intent to commit sexual penetration were dropped. Steven Allen Nelson, of Hastings was sentenced for breaking and entering with intent and two charges of larceny of a building. Nelson, 30, was ordered March 15 to serve 10 months in jail, with credit for 107 days served. He must pay $3,334, serve 60 months on probation and complete the Swift and Sure Sanctions Program. The last three months of jail will be suspended upon successful completion of probation. Two additional charges of larceny of a building and a charge of larceny of a firearm were dropped. Lonnie Michael Newland, 57, of Nashville was sentenced March 15 for absconding or forfeiture of bond; habitual offender, third conviction; possession of marijuana; and operating a laboratory involving methamphetamine. Newland was ordered to serve 10 months in jail, with credit for 174 days. He must pay $6,051 in costs and fines and serve 60 months on probation. He must complete the Swift and Sure Sanctions Program, cognitive behavior therapy, and pay $175 per month toward court assessments. Charges of possession of methamphetamines, possession of analogues, maintaining a drug house, and possession of marijuana, spice or salvia were all dropped. The back of this home on East Walnut Street sustained the most damage in a fire Sunday afternoon. BIRCH and Freeport fire departments responded to a house fire on East Walnut Street in Hastings Sunday, March 18, around 4 p.m. The cause of the fire is still undetermined, and the house is a total loss. Firefighters were able to control the blaze after about 90 minutes. According to Hastings Fire Chief Roger Caris, six people escaped the blaze unharmed. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 Help Wanted 25 DRIVER TRAINEES Needed NOW! Become a driver for Werner Enterprises! Earn $750 per week! No experience needed! Local CDL Training! Job ready in 15 days! 1-877-649-2697. Help Wanted Business Services LOOKING FOR SEASONAL truck driver for summer, multi axle. Must have CDL Class/Tanker endorsement. (269)969-9453 BOOKKEEPING SERVICES Personal * Self-Employed * Small Business Payroll * Billing Accounts Receivable * Accounts Payable General Ledger Weekly * Monthly * Quarterly * Annually Call today! (269)420-5714 For Sale AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/busiADVENTURES LEARN- ness. No delivery fees. Call ING CENTER in Caledonia for a free quote. Diamond is hiring full time lead teach- Propane 269-367-9700 ers for their infant and toddler classrooms. Candidates CENTRAL BOILER- OUTWood Furnaces. must meet State of Michigan DOOR requirements for education, Eliminates high heating bills. including having a child-re- Helps reduce your carbon lated degree. ad infant/tod- footprint. Buy NOW & save dler development course up to $1,145! Call SOS your and have experience work- “Stocking Dealer” Dutton, ing with children. Send re- MI 616-554-8669 or 616-915sume to: caledonia@adven- 5061 tureslearningcenters.com BANNER or apply at 8187 Broadmoor HASTINGS are Ave. Caledonia, MI 49316 SUBSCRIPTIONS available for $35 per year in between 7:30am-5:30pm. Barry County. Call (269) 945SECRETARY/RECEPTION9554. IST: A full-time position exists for a secretary/recepRecreation tionist in a mental health HUNTING and substance abuse agency WANTED in Hastings. Qualified candi- LAND: (2) Families are indates will possess prior of- terested in leasing acreage fice experience and should for this years deer season. be able to multitask and Call (269)795-3049 thrive in a very busy enviAutomotive ronment. Send resume to Barry County Community 2006 TOYOTA AVALON: Mental Health Authority, looks good, runs good, 167k 915 West Green Street, Hast- miles, $10,500, (269)838-5958. ings, Michigan 49058. No phone calls. EOE National Ads PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is deceptive, fraudulent or might otherwise violate law or accepted standards of taste. However, this publication does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the quality of goods or services advertised. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made in any advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you ask for money in advance of delivery of goods or services advertised. PROFESSIONAL LAWN CARE SERVICES: Now taking new customers in the Hastings area. Very reasonable prices, please call for a free quote. (269)945-5383 Estate Sale ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. Antiques ANTIQUE SHOW, MARCH 24th & 25th, Barry County Fairground. A large variety of antiques, Just north of Hastings on M-37. Saturday, 9am-5pm, Sunday 10am-3pm, $3.00 admission. GET EASY CASH with extra household goods and tools! Call (269) 945-9554 to sell your unwanted stuff with a classified ad in this paper. Everyday Hero volunteer award nominations sought The Everyday Hero volunteer awards recognize, honor and celebrate residents within Barry County who have given generously of their time and talent for the benefit of the community. Any organization that utilizes volunteers in Barry County is eligible to submit nominations for this year’s awards. This includes nonprofit agencies, service clubs and organizations, churches and even businesses that are involved in employee volunteering. All nominations will be judged by a panel of community members, and the winners will be announced at an evening reception event. Each award recipient will receive recognition at the event, and each nominee will receive a certificate of appreciation. To nominate an individual or group, call Morgan Johnson, 269-945-4010 or visit the Barry County United Way website, www.bcunitedway.org. Nominations must be postmarked by Friday, March 23. Nominations are being accepted for the following awards: Volunteer of the Year, Youth Volunteer of the Year, Outstanding Mentor Award, Continuing Service Award, Corporate Service Award, Health Care Service Award and Group Volunteer Award. The Barry County United Way Volunteer Center hosts this recognition event during National Volunteer Week each year in midApril. The theme for this year is ‘Celebrating people in action.’ The Everyday Hero volunteer awards ceremony will be from 6 to 7 p.m. Thursday, April 19, in the Walldorff Ballroom in Hastings. Advanced registration is required by Thursday, April 12. Call the Barry County United Way to register or for more information. Need wedding invitations? Check out the large selection at Printing Plus 1351 N. M-43 Hwy., Hastings just north of city limits POLICE BEAT Suspect threatens; leaves by police car A woman called 911 to report an assault March 17 after leaving her East Day Road residence, in Bellevue, and again when returning to the house. Barry County Central Dispatch then received numerous 911 calls from the residence. Three different people were reportedly calling the emergency number. Barry County Sheriff Deputies have documented a tumultuous history between the initial female caller and the suspect. The male suspect was allegedly asked by the woman to leave the house, but he refused. The woman said the 24-year-old man chased her from the bedroom into the kitchen and punched her in the face. When she went into the bathroom and locked the door, the man used a screwdriver to unlock the door and attacked her. Two other men living in the house had pulled the man away from her. Allegedly, the suspect had been drinking and throwing things all day. The woman told deputies the suspect warned her “If he was going in a police car, she was going in an ambulance.” According to one witness, the suspect had grabbed a knife and tried to get to the woman. The man was arrested for domestic violence and a probation violation. Woman nailed for shoplifting Deputies were called to the Dollar General Store in Nashville March 17 in reference to a shoplifter. Upon arrival, the store clerk took the deputy into the back room where the suspect was sitting. The clerk had seen the 27-year-old Eaton Rapids woman take several packages of artificial fingernails and when searching the woman’s purse found four packages of nails and two packages of super glue for which the suspect had not paid. The clerk suspected the woman of past thefts, and this time the suspect admitted to taking the items. The woman was arrested and the report sent to the prosecutor’s office. Construction job gets ‘stuck’ A caller notified deputies March 13 of a white truck stuck in a yard on South M-37 in Dowling and a subject snooping around a shed. When deputies made contact with the man, he said he had been hired to remove the door on the shed. The story could not be verified with the homeowner, and the 49year-old Battle Creek man was arrested for breaking and entering. The report was forwarded to the prosecutor, and a warrant was issued for illegal entry. The truck was momentarily freed, but was then impounded by the sheriff’s department. Check really was in the mail – and cashed Deputies were called March 8 by a man claiming his uncle had cashed a large check without permission. The caller said he plows snow for several businesses and had contacted one of his clients to ask when payment would be received. He was informed the check had already been sent and cashed. When the $1,150 check was looked up online, there were two signatures. Someone had forged his signature and then signed his own name. The second signature was that of his 52-year-old uncle from Hickory Corners. The case is still under investigation. Aluminum dock stolen from cottage Deputies met with a woman in Hastings March 17 to discuss the larceny of her boat dock. The aluminum dock, four feet wide by 20 feet long, had been stored in the backyard of the family cottage where it was hung on the back fence. The dock is valued at $1,000 and was last seen when removed from the water around Labor Day. There were no suspects. Tenants evicted along with crop Deputies were informed March 6 of an unsecured medical marijuana growing operation by a Barry County process server. The server had approached the East Cloverdale Road home with an eviction notice and saw that the back door was off its hinges. The server and the landlord entered the residence to determine if the 29-year-old tenant was home. A light was on in the basement where many marijuana plants were found. The renter was contacted by phone. He informed authorities of his personal medical marijuana card and said he was a provider for three other people. The landlord said she had become suspicious when the house’s electric bill had soared to over $400 a month. During the investigation the renter’s 21-year-old live-in girlfriend arrived and was upset to see most of her belongings removed from the house by the landlord. She told deputies the marijuana was also hers, and she showed deputies her card. Deputies found 10 marijuana plants in fivegallon buckets and many smaller plants in foam cups and starting trays; 78 plants were found and seized. The report was sent to the prosecutor’s office with warrant requests for both residents. Substances at root of couple’s problems Barry Township Police and Barry County Deputies responded March 11 to a reported domestic assault in Delton. According to the report, the husband and wife both have substance abuse problems, one with alcohol and the other with marijuana. Deputies observed the 50-year-old wife was intoxicated and complained her husband does not treat her well. She told authorities that her husband had grabbed her by the neck and thrown her down. She also said she had chest pains from time to time, and her husband refused to take her to the hospital. The husband told deputies his wife had been at a friend’s house drinking and had come home belligerent. He had gone to bed and woke up with his wife shaking him. Reportedly, the woman was on top of him and he had pushed her off, at which point she took his inhaler from the nightstand and threw it downstairs. He suggested the action was meant to provoke him, but he did nothing. The woman admitted to the acts. Her a blood-alcohol test registered .16 percent and the husband registered .09 percent. The husband did not wish to pursue charges against his wife. Due to the woman’s emotional state and her admission to the physical confrontation, she was taken into custody for domestic assault. The report was forwarded to the prosecutor. Day-long argument leads to arrest Deputies arrived at a Northwind Drive home in Delton March 10, in response to a reported domestic situation possibly involving a firearm. A 36-year-old male and a teenage boy were waiting in the driveway of the residence. The man told deputies the firearm had been locked away in the basement. A 26-year-old woman was still in the home. Deputies made contact with the woman who was reportedly crying uncontrollably. The woman was asked to go outside and sit on the steps, while the teenager was asked to stand by the patrol car and the man a distance away from both. Back in the house, a deputy reported seeing a wooden gun cabinet with a broken glass door. When interviewed, the man said he and his wife had been arguing all day, and he had gone to bed. His wife, he said, entered the bedroom yelling, then got on the bed and started punching him in the head. The man said at this point he “choke slammed” his wife and held her until she calmed down. Later that evening, the wife began arguing with the man’s son over a homework assignment. According to the teenager, his stepmother was very angry and lunged at him. He got scared and put his arms out, accidentally pushing back and causing her to stumble. The woman then began screaming and ran downstairs. The husband reported hearing a loud crash and came around the corner to see his wife had broken the glass on the gun cabinet and was reaching for a gun. He told deputies he had wrestled his wife to the floor and restrained her, then told the boy to call 911. Before officers arrived, the man had asked his son to go outside, and he had secured the guns in the basement. Deputies observed no intoxicants in the home. The man said this was an isolated incident and he did not want his wife to go to jail. The woman agreed to leave the house for the evening and stay with a friend in Grand Rapids. The woman was later found to have an outstanding warrant from Prairieville Township, and she was arrested. The report was sent to the prosecutor’s office. Unlocked door leads to items missing Deputies responded March 8 to a reported breaking and entering on North M-43 near Hastings. A man said his parents’ home had been broken into, and several items were missing. The man was living with his parents, who were at work, and when he returned home around 8 p.m. he noticed items missing from the home. Computers, televisions, radios, power tools and cash were missing and valued at $4,300. Deputies suspect the thief entered through an unlocked garage entry door. There were no signs of forced entry. The case remains open. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 22, 2012 — Page 15 Record-breaking warm weather advances beginning of growing season by Jeff Andresen and Aaron Pollyea MSU Extension, Department of Geography Recent abnormally warm weather has resulted in a very early start to the growing season across the Great Lakes Region and much of the Central and Eastern U.S. The trend toward warmer than normal conditions is not new, with above normal mean temperatures observed across Michigan during much of the period back to the middle of November 2011. The winter of 2011-12, from December through February, was the fourth mildest on record. The prolonged warm spell is the result of a persistent jet stream configuration across North America that generally prevented cold, Arctic-origin air masses from moving out of their high-latitude source regions southward into the Central and Eastern U.S. This left the area under the influence of relatively mild Pacific-origin air masses. The current jet stream pattern, with deep troughing across the Western U.S. and ridging across the east has accentuated the pattern. The result is recordbreaking warmth brought northward from the Gulf States on southerly winds. Characterizing the current warm spell as highly unusual is an understatement, both due to the magnitude of the warmth (recent high temperatures have exceeded 70 degrees Fahrenheit over many areas of the state) and due to its length. For climatological comparison, normal high temperatures during the third week of March range from the mid-30s far north to the middle to upper 40s south. Thus, recent temperatures have been running in the range of 20 to 30 degrees or more above normal. Short- and medium-range forecast guidance strongly suggests a general continuation of the current pattern with warmer and possibly wetter than normal weather likely through the end of the month. Use of the latest forecast information suggests at least the potential for mean temperatures this March to exceed the existing record (1945 in most locations) for warmest on record in the state. The abnormal warmth already has or will shortly bring most perennial crops and vegetation out of their protective dormant states. Given that this is taking place two full weeks or more ahead of normal, and that the relative susceptibility of plant tissue to frost and cold damage generally increases with increasing growth stage, there is an overall elevated risk of cold injury this spring season. Even though current outlooks for April and the spring season call for more of the same warm pattern across Michigan, further cold weather at some point in the next several weeks is virtually a certainty. The climatolog- Local couple continues teaching adults to read by David DeDecker Staff Writer March is Reading Month, but many people cannot read or cannot read at a level that allows them to function on a basic level. Retired Hastings physician James Atkinson oversees the local literacy council which helps county residents learn to read or improve their reading skills and comprehension. “My wife, Mary, and myself enjoy reading very much,” said Atkinson. “In 1999, we saw an ad in the paper saying, ‘If you like to read, maybe you would enjoy helping others learn to improve their reading.’ So, we took 12 hours of instruction and became tutors.” Atkinson said he has eight people in the literacy program, the largest amount of people he has had in the program since he began. He is the president of the Barry County Literacy Council and helps evaluate those seeking help and supplies workbooks for their study pro- gram. The literacy council also helps people prepare for the reading section of GED exams, and those struggling with English as a second language. “The statistics say functional illiteracy — the ability to read, but inability to effectively function in society, such as the inability to fill out a job application or loan application — is at about 15 percent,” said Atkinson. “Those statistics come from studies the U.S. military did on service inductees, which means, according to the statistics, there could be 7,500 people in Barry County who are functionally illiterate, who have difficulty with common, everyday reading and comprehension.” For more information on the program or being a volunteer, call 269-948-9900. The literacy council office is on the second floor of the Hastings Public Library. Barry County Democratic Party sponsoring Michael Moore movie A special, free showing of the Michael Moore move, “Capitalism: A Love Story,” is being sponsored by the Barry County Democratic Party Friday at 7 p.m. at the emergency services building on High Street in Middleville. The film examines the impact of corporate dominance on the everyday lives of Americans and compares the layoffs and economic hardship of Flint in 1989 to the challenges facing many Americans today. A post-film discussion is planned. HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, March 22 —“So Many Books … book club discusses The Keepsake by Tess Gerritsen, 1 to 2 p.m.; Movie Memories celebrates the little gem, “The Clown,” 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, March 23 — preschool story time enjoys the stories of Aliki, 10:30 to 11 a.m. Saturday, March 24 — VITA tax counseling available, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, March 26 — winter reading club for adults continues; computer class takes on “downloading eBooks,” 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 27 — toddler story time reads about clothing 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30; open chess club, 6 to 8; genealogy club meets, 6 to 8 p.m. Call the library for more information about any of the above, 269-945-4263. Reporting History for the Future in 6 Barry County Area Newspapers • Lakewood News • Maple Valley News • Middleville-Caledonia Sun & News • Reminder • Hastings Banner Over 64,000 Papers Distributed Every Week! 1351 N. M-43 Highway • P.O. Box 188 Hastings, MI 49058 Phone (269) 945-9554 • Fax (269) 945-5192 ical average number of daily spring freeze events (32 degrees Fahrenheit or less) after March in a given season ranges from about eight in the southwest and southeast corners of the state to more than 20 in interior northern sections of the state. In terms of hard freezes, the average number of low temperature events of 28 degrees Fahrenheit or less for the same period ranges from four to more than 15. Very cold temperatures are still possible during the month of April, with lows below 10 degrees Fahrenheit in the south to the single digits below zero in the north. It is also worth noting that there is some minor reduction of frost and freeze risk in years with very warm Marches. When only the top 10 warmest Marches were considered, there is an approximate reduction of 10 to 20 percent in the frequency of subsequent freeze events. This is very likely associated with the persistence of the upper air pattern that led to the abnormally warm March weather into April or longer. Finally, there may also be some positive impacts of the unusual weather. Warm temperatures will accelerate soil evaporation rates and may allow some early fieldwork opportunities, but this will depend greatly on upcoming rainfall frequency and intensity (the forecasts generally call for wetter than normal weather). Similarly, depending on weather conditions later this year – especially rainfall patterns – there is at least the possibility that seasonal yields of some crops, such as forages, could be higher due to a potentially longer than normal growing season. This article was published March 15 at MSU Extension News. For more information from MSU Extension, visit http://news.msue.msu.edu. To contact a local expert, visit http://expert.msue.msu.edu, or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-678-3464). SAU decides to add Greg Hamilton by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Thornapple Kellogg senior Greg Hamilton made a trip to Spring Arbor University last summer. He was looking for a college and hopefully a place to continue playing basketball. The Cougars and coach Ryan Cottingham weren’t looking for a guard though. The Spring Arbor coaching staff got a chance to see Hamilton in action for the Thornapple Kellogg varsity boys’ basketball team this season though, and decided that maybe they could use another guard. Hamilton signed his National Letter of Intent to join the Spring Arbor Men’s Basketball program Thursday in the Thornapple Kellogg High School library. “We feel very blessed to have gotten him,” said Cottingham. “Initially our focus was on other positions. We didn’t think we were even going to take a guard at the time. It just so happens I had been in conversations with his coach and he said you better get up here and see this kid.” “It worked out my assistant had an opening in his schedule. I said, I want you to go up to Thornapple Kellogg. I want you to see this kid. He went up and just loved him. He said, he can play. You’d better get up here. So, the very next week I came up. There’s no doubt about it, we feel very fortunate to get him. He can flat out play.” Hamilton averaged 20 points, six rebounds, five assists and three steals per game as a senior this winter, while shooting 40 percent from the field and 80 percent from the free throw line. He eclipsed the 1,000 point mark for his career during the Trojans’ final home game and finished his three-year varsity career with 1,041 points. He was an all-conference performer in the O-K Gold this season, after earning an honorable mention all-conference nod as a junior. He has also been nominated for All State Honors in the Detroit Free Press and BCAM’s Best of the Best. While accomplishing all these honors on the hardwood, Greg has been able to maintain a GPA of 4.1. “We’re going to recruit character,” Cottingham said. “We’re going to recruit high-character young men and it was obvious he’s a high-character kid. He’s exactly what we’re looking for. He fits the profile, character and he’s an athlete, and he’ll make us better and he’ll represent us well on and off the court. I’m looking forward to seeing how he matures and develops. He should be fun to coach for four years.” One of Hamilton’s first coaches was his father, Jeff, who joined him Thursday along with his mother Suzi, brother Tommy, TK varsity boys’ basketball coach Mike Rynearson, former TK head coach Lance Laker and a number of his teammates and classmates. Hamilton started playing AAU basketball as an eighth grader, and continued with that through last summer. Thornapple Kellogg senior Greg Hamilton (seated center) is joined by his parents’ Jeff and Suzi Hamilton (seated) as well as brother Tommy (back from left), Spring Arbor Men’s Basketball coach Ryan Cottingham, Thornapple Kellogg varsity boys’ basketball coach Mike Rynearson and former TK head coach Lance Laker as he signs his National Letter of Intent to join the Spring Arbor program in the TKHS library Thursday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) “There were a lot of weekends in the spring and summer, playing basketball in different states and cities. Indianapolis, Grand Rapids, Fort Wayne,” said Hamilton. “Ever since I was little, I always loved basketball. We had a court in our backyard and I would just shoot out there. I’ve always aspired to be a college basketball player. It feels really good. I know it’s the next level, it’s going to be a lot faster paced with a lot better players, but if I put the work in good things can happen.” He plans on working towards a degree in the health sciences. Stroke clinics coming to CERC pool beginning April 9 Middleville Minnows, Hastings Hammerheads and high school swimmers will have the chance to improve their times in the coming weeks. A series of Stroke Clinics will be held Mondays and Wednesdays from April 9 through May 16 at the Community Education and Recreation Center pool in Hastings. “We always have a summer and winter competitive swim season for our swim club, but because we are limited to two practices a week I was looking for a way to spend more time working specifically on start, turn and stroke improvement,” said clinic organizer Mike Schipper. The cost to participate in the 12, two-hour clinics is $50. The clinics will run from 6:30p.m. until 8:30 p.m. each evening. Sign-up can be done at the CERC in Hastings prior to April 9, at the first clinic on April 9, or any time after the first session for those unable to attend. The clinics will be divided in to four age/ability groups, and each group will rotate through stations focusing on starts, turns, drill work and full stroke work. Each night will be devoted to only one stroke. For instance, April 9 will be all breaststroke for the full two hours. “This will allow the swimmers to really focus on that stroke,” said Schipper. “We will have hopefully as many as eight coaches so that each swimmer will get a lot of individual attention. We will also be video taping the swimmers to help them see their stroke and see what specific changes need to be made.” Contact Schipper for more information at (269) 795-2005 or Kim Kroells at (616) 4464747. BOWLING SCORES Tuesday Night Mixed Boyce Milk Haulers 80-36; Hurless Machine Shop 69.5-46.5; Barry County Red Cross 68.5-47.5; Hometown Lumber 66.549.5; J-Bar Antique Tractors 41-75; Dirt Broke 22.5-93.5. Men’s Good Games and Series - D. Benner 201-592; K. Beebe 196-530; D. Blakely 195-531; G. Hause 191-553; A. Dundas 132-346. Women’s Good Games and Series - D. Service 204-515; S. Beebe 169; B. Ramey 165-418; D. Ware 159; M. Wilcox 127. Monday Mixerettes Kent Oil 65.5-46.5; Dean’s Dolls 59.5-52.5; Nashville Chiropractic 58.5-53.5; NBT 58.553.5; Dewey’s Auto Boyd 50-62; James Process Service 43-65. Good games and series - T. Shaeffer 189462; C. Hurless 160-426; E. Ulrich 190-518; L. Elliston 182; V. Carr 175-496; N. Potter 169; P. Fowler 175-446; K. Fowler 187; T. Christopher 194; N. Goggins 156. Senior Citizens Butterfingers 69-43; Just Having Fun 63.548.5; Kuempel 60-52; Three Gals and a Guy 57-55; King Pins 54-58; Early Risers 53-59; M&M’s 53-59; Usedtobe#1 53-59; Ward’s Friends 49-53; Sun Risrs 48.5-63.5. Good games and series women - M. Wieland 189-498; M. Kingsley 97-243; Y. Cheeseman 167; B. Maker 178-517; P. Shellington 180-434; R. Murphy 165-442; R. Pitts 147-393; E. Dunham 174-451; G. Meaney 168. Good games and series men - H. Bowman 159; J. Grassmyer 195; P. Gasper 214; B. Terry 223; L. Markley 169-487; W. Talsma 200-525; R. McDonald 224-638; G. Waggoner 193; B. Akers 203; L. Dunn 191473. Wednesday P.M. Mills Landing 75-35; Four Pals 68.5-43.5; The River 66-46; Eye & ENT 59-53; Hair Care 55.5-53.5* * Games to be made up. Good games and series - B. Norris 114; P. Shellington 159; G. Scobey 165; K. Moore 127-354; J. Shurlow 158; P. Fowler 167-450; Elliston 211; T. Christopher 192. Tuesday Trios Rollarama 82-34; CB’s 72-44; Look Insurance 68-48; Lu’S Team 67-49 Shirlee’s Team 65.5-50.5; Blair Landscaping 61-55; Team Turkey 60-56; Twisted Sisters 53-71; Coleman Agency** 48-68; Trouble 46-67; Classic 3 46-72; Ghost Team 13.5-97.5. **Games to be made up. High Games and Series - S. Vandenburg 189; S. McKey 191; N. Shaw 169; T. Thompson 174; D. Hunt 174; D. James 180; K. Carpenter 172. Saturday Majors (Youth League) Strikers 51.29; Leones 49-31; Zombies 40.5-39.5; Hastings Bowl 37.5-42.5; Whatever 33.5-46.5; Great Balls of Fire 28.551.5. Girls Good Games and Series - L. Wallace 113; C. Roush 165; S. Roush 171-362. Boys Good Games and Series - W. Arnold 201; C. Stout 150; S. Stout 126-311; K. Kavanagh 156-404; J. Johnson 176-441; J. Ulrich 139-369. Thursday Angels Miller Farm Repair 67.5-40.5; Rock-NBowler 67.5-40.5; Moore’s Apts. 64-44; Riverfront Fin. Ser. 59-49; Hastings Bowl 5945; Cathy’s Cut & Curl 56-52; Varney’s Const. 46-62. High Games and Series - M. Moore 175; N. Taylor 133; C. Shellenbarger 165; Colleen S. 181; J. Wyant 188-511; C. Gdula 153; T. Dickinson 167; M. Weiler 179-469; C. Cooper 183-512; A. Castelein 227; C. Hooper 174450; D. McCollum 203-514; J. Moore 153429; B. Noteboom 180; L. Brandt 172; D. Curtis 184; C. Hurless 172. �Page 16 — Thursday, March 22, 2012 — The Hastings Banner DK’s first district title highlight of hoops season by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The four members of the 2011-12 AllBarry County varsity girls’ basketball teams from Delton Kellogg High School can say something no other Delton girls have been able to say before, that they were district champions. Adrianna Culbert, her school’s all-time leading scorer and rebounder, Andrea Polley, Mallory Sewell and Brooke Martin are all returning members of the all-county teams, and all four played a big role in that first ever district title for Delton. That was the only championship of any kind for the local girls’ basketball teams. The Panthers were the only ones to even reach a district final. Delton also had a very good season in the Kalamazoo Valley Association, finishing tied for second in the league. Thornapple Kellogg and Hastings had another tough season battling in the very tough O-K Gold Conference which had Grand Rapids Catholic Central (GRCC), South Christian and Wayland all win district titles at the end of the year. GRCC went on to a runner-up finish in Class B, topping South Christian in the regional finals and Wayland in the state quarterfinals. Lakewood had a district champion of its own in the CAAC-White, Portland. The Raiders finished the regular season undefeated, finally falling to GRCC in the regional semifinals. Despite a lack of team championships, there were plenty of highlights during the season. Many were created by the group of girls that make up the 2011-12 All-Barry County Girls’ Basketball teams. Girls’ Basketball First Team Mikaela Bromley - Maple Valley: The Lions’ senior point guard earned all-conference honors in the KVA this winter, averaging 13 points, six rebounds, 3.6 assists and 3.2 steals a game in an injury shortened season. A four-year varsity player, head coach Landon Wilkes calls her a hard-worker and an all-around good kid. Adrianna Culbert - Delton Kellogg: Delton’s all-time leading scorer and rebound- Shelby Tedrow er, Culbert finished the year averaging 14.6 points, 12 rebounds, 2.14 steals and 2.33 deflections per game while shooting 50 percent from the floor. “Dri will leave DK as arguably the best female student-athlete in school history,” said coach Mike Mohn. “Those that have played on teams with her and have followed her through her career have been treated to a student-athlete that takes care of business in the classroom and is one of the most competitive players they will have experienced.” Madi King - Lakewood: The Vikings’ MVP for the third straight year, the junior guard earned all-conference honors in the CAAC-White once again. She had 10.9 points and 5.9 rebounds per game, led the Vikings in three-point shooting percentage and assists, and was just one steal shy of a single-season school record for steals. Emily Kutch - Lakewood: The Vikings top scorer and rebounder as a junior guard/forward, Kutch averaged 11.6 points and 6.6 rebounds a game. Madi King She earned all-conference honors for the second time in the CAAC-White this winter. Coach Denny Frost calls her an “outstanding player that will play at the next level.” Andrea Polley - Delton Kellogg: Polley averaged 8.6 points, 4.9 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 2.1 steals and 2.2 deflections per game this season as a senior guard for Delton Kellogg. “Andrea is one of the best athletes I have ever coached,” said Mohn. “Her speed and quickness were an asset to our successful season this year.” Shelby Tedrow - Thornapple Kellogg: The Trojans’ senior center averaged 7.9 points, six rebounds, one block and 1.2 steals a game this year. Tedrow was named all-conference in the O-K Gold. Adrianna Culbert Girls’ Basketball Second Team Timara Burd, Maple Valley: In her second year on the Lion varsity, Burd was named honorable mention all-conference in the KVA. She averaged seven points, three steals and three rebounds a game. Coach Wilkes said she is, “extremely athletic, plays hard, and is a good kid to have around.” Taylor Carter, Hastings: A junior who was voted co-MVP for the Saxons along with senior Dani Meredith, Carter led Hastings in scoring at 9.4 points per game while earning honorable mention all-conference in the O-K Gold this year. “Taylor had a nice varsity debut this year,” said head coach Steve Laubaugh. “She was our offensive leader throughout the season. She is a nice outside shooter, but she doesn’t have any fear in driving to the basket as well.” Kelli Graham, Thornapple Kellogg: The Trojans’ sophomore point guard averaged 7.8 points and two steals a game, and once she was inserted into the varsity’s starting line-up that scoring number jumped to 10.6 points per game. She had highs of 22 and 21 points during the course of the season. Kristin Hilley, Lakewood: A senior guard/forward for the Vikings, Hilley was always a three-point threat knocking down 27 during the course of the season. Hilley is also a solid defender who contributed in many areas on both ends of the floor, even running the point when called upon. Brooke Martin, Delton Kellogg: Martin finished her junior season averaging 6.7 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.5 assists a game. “A lot of our success this year was due to Brooke’s ability to handle pressure in the open court and get the ball in positive positions for herself and her teammates,” Mohn said. Mallory Sewell - Delton Kellogg: The Panthers’ junior center was a force inside for her team all year, averaging 8.5 points, 6.9 rebounds and 1 block per game. “She can handle the ball in the open court as well. She moves really well, and she will be expected to handle the bulk of the post duties next year,” Mohn said. Crystal Smith - Thornapple Kellogg: A junior forward who could pull-up and hit a jumper or attack the basket, Smith led the Trojans in points per game this season at 9.3. She also averaged 3.6 rebounds, 3.7 steals a game and knocked down 18 three-pointers. She had 12 games where she recorded at least three steals. Brooke Wieland - Lakewood: Coach Frost had high praise for his junior point guard saying, “She does the stuff that is only noticed by a coach. If she didn’t play well, we probably didn’t win.” Wieland always guarded opponent’s top player, no matter the size, and improved on the offensive end as the season wore on. She had a stretch late in the season where she was averaging three three-pointers a game. DK and Hastings boys win hardware on hardcourt by Brett Bremer Sports Editor A conference championship had eluded the Delton Kellogg varsity boys’ basketball team for more than 30 years until the Panthers clinched an outright conference championship by topping Olivet in the final game of the regular season. Led by senior all-conference performers Ryan Watson and Mitchell Wandell finished atop the Kalamazoo Valley Association standings, winning a league title for Delton for the first time since 1981. Watson and Wandell are two of three Panthers who earned spots on this season’s All-Barry County Boys’ Basketball Teams. A young Maple Valley team was at the other end of the conference standings in the KVA, but played its own small part in helping the Panthers to the title by topping rival Olivet late in the year. The Delton Kellogg boys thought never solved Schoolcraft. The Eagles handed the Panthers their only two losses of the regular season, then ended the Panthers’ season with a win in the Class C District Semifinals at Schoolcraft High School. Hastings won the area’s only varsity boys’ basketball district championship in 2012, topping rival Thornapple Kellogg in the district finals at Lakewood High School before ultimately falling to Grand Rapids Christian in the Class B Regional Semifinals. Hastings and TK met twice during the O-K Gold Conference season, with the Trojans coming out on top both times. While both teams had their ups and downs in the O-K Gold, both excelled outside of the conference. The Saxons were 6-0 in non-conference games during the regular season and the Trojans were 5-1. Boys’ Basketball First Team Ryan Watson Danny Buehler, Hastings: A senior guard, Buehler averaged eight points, four assists, three rebounds and 2.5 steals a game this season. He also shot 82 percent from the free throw line. “Danny was our catalyst on both sides of the floor,” said Hastings head coach Don Schils. “His energy on defense got his teammates going, and we were at our best offen- SAXON WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE Complete online schedule at: www.hassk12.org THURSDAY, MARCH 22 4:00 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 5:00 PM 6:30 PM Girls Boys Boys Girls Girls Girls Girls Varsity Varsity JV Varsity JV JV Varsity Track Baseball Baseball Softball Softball Soccer Soccer GVSU Maple Valley HS DH Maple Valley HS DH Maple Valley HS DH Maple Valley HS DH Lakewood HS Lakewood HS WEDNESDAY, MARCH 28 A A H A H H H 4:00 PM 4:00 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:30 PM 4:30 PM Boys Girls Boys Girls Boys Girls Varsity Varsity JV JV Varsity Varsity Baseball Softball Baseball Softball Track Track Ionia HS DH Ionia HS DH Ionia HS DH Ionia HS DH Harper Creek Comm HS Harper Creek Comm HS A A H H A A 10:00 AM Girls Varsity Soccer 10:00 AM Girls JV Soccer Hastings Invitational Hastings Invitational H H Thanks to This Week’s Sponsor: Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, P.C. “Quality Care with Compassion” 5:00 PM Girls JV Soccer 6:30 PM Girls Varsity Soccer Otesgo HS Otsego HS H H HASTINGS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS Contact Nancy 945-2742 or hastingsathleticboosters@gmail.com to sponsor the schedule 840 Cook Rd. Hastings, MI 49058 Phone: 269-945-9520 Toll Free: 800-596-1005 Contact us on the web @ www.hoc-mi.com 77566510 TUESDAY, MARCH 27 mates for open looks at the basket,” said coach Rynearson. Jordan Cooper, Lakewood: A three-year varsity player for the Vikings who earned first team all-conference honors in the CAACWhite this season. He averaged 10.8 points and 2.6 rebounds a game. He also shot 73 percent from the free throw line. Cooper was a Viking captain in his senior season. Keith Garber, Hastings: A senior forward, Garber averaged eight points and five rebounds a game while shooting 70 percent at the free throw line. “Keith is one of the hardest working players I have ever coached on and off the floor,” said coach Schils. “His work ethic was an example to all future Saxon basketball players.” Garret Mater, Maple Valley: A junior, Mater averaged 8.25 points and 6.1 rebounds a game for the Lions, while also added two assists a game. He was a captain, who Lion head coach Chris Ewing said was the first to practice and the last to leave, and he earned honorable mention all-conference in the KVA this season. Garrett Miller, Maple Valley: Miller tied the school record for threes in a game with six, and hit 40 of them on the season including a couple of buzzer beaters one that won a game for the Lions and one that sent a contest into overtime. He averaged 7.5 points a game this season and also added 60 rebounds. He was named all-conference honorable mention in the KVA. Norm O’Meara, Delton Kellogg: A huge three-point shooting threat, with the ability to drive the basketball and play solid defense too. O’Meara averaged 10.2 points per game as a senior this winter. Boys’ Basketball Second Team Times and dates subject to change SATURDAY, MARCH 24 sively when Danny penetrated the lane.” Maxwell Clark, Hastings: A junior guard Clark got the double honor of guarding opponents’ top players and leading the team in scoring. He averaged 10.6 points, five rebounds, three assists and 2.5 steals a game while shooting 81 percent at the free throw line. “Max was the leader of our team and MVP,” Schils said. “His athleticism allowed him to fill up the stat sheet offensively and defensively.” Caden Francisco, Thornapple Kellogg: The Trojans’ senior center was honorable mention all-conference in the O-K Gold this season. He averaged 9.4 points and 7.7 rebounds over the course of the season, while shooting 67 percent from the floor. Greg Hamilton, Thornapple Kellogg: The Trojans’ senior guard led the county in scoring at 20.4 points per game, and also led his team in assists at 4.3 per game and added 6.2 rebounds per contest as well as 1.9 steals. Hamilton, who recently signed to join the Spring Arbor Men’s Basketball program, was named all-conference in the O-K Gold. Garrett Reid, Maple Valley: A three-year varsity starter at point guard who earned first team all-conference honors in the KVA this winter. Reid averaged 11.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, 3.2 assists a game this season, while keeping the tempo up for the Lions while he was on the floor. Mitchell Wandell, Delton Kellogg: Wandell, a senior forward, averaged 14.5 points, seven rebounds and two steals a game while shooting 50 percent from the floor and 81 percent at the free throw line. “He covered all five positions defensively and was our strongest rebounder,” said Delton Kellogg head coach Mike Murray. Ryan Watson, Delton Kellogg: Watson averaged 17.5 points, 5.1 rebounds, 4.8 assists and 1.6 steals a game in his senior season, while shooting 76 percent from the free throw line and drilling 45 three-pointers. “Ryan was also a great leader on the floor, as a second-year captain and a third-year varsity player,” said coach Murray. “Ryan is also tremendous in the classroom, where he’ll be valedictorian in June.” Adam Barker, Lakewood: The Vikings’ senior point guard averaged 4.6 points, 4.5 assists and 2.7 steals a game. He was a team captain who earned an honorable mention nod in the CAAC-White this winter. Zac Comeau, Thornapple Kellogg: The Trojans’ senior point guard got off to a slow start to the season, recovering from an ACL injury, but picked up his play for the Trojans as the season progressed. “His biggest attribute was finding team- Maxwell Clark and Greg Hamilton �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 22, 2012 — Page 17 County sent first team to state finals this season by Brett Bremer Sports Editor It was a great year for the Barry County cheerleaders. The county’s five varsity competitive cheer teams compete in three different conferences, and all three conference championships went to the local teams. Delton Kellogg won the Southern Michigan Competitive Cheer Conference (SMCCC), Lakewood won the Capital Area Activities Conference White Division (CAAC-White), and Thornapple Kellogg took the title in the O-K Gold Conference. Hastings was second in the O-K Gold to the Trojans. TK and Hastings joined Lakewood in qualifying for regional competitions this season, with the Trojans and Saxons advancing in the Division 2 state tournament and Lakewood in Division 3. Thornapple Kellogg was the first Barry County team ever to qualify for the state finals, placing seventh in the state in Division 2 at the DeltaPlex in Grand Rapids. Here are the 2011-12 All-Barry County Competitive Cheer teams. Competitive Cheer First Team Tiffani Ackerson, Lakewood: A senior captain for the Vikings, Ackerson was named the team’s MVP in her second year on the varsity. She earned first team all-conference in the CAAC-White in each of the past two season, and was named second team all-region this year. MacKenzie Borrink, Thornapple Kellogg: A senior who earned Second Team All-State honors in Division 2 this season. Borrink competed in all three rounds for TK in her fourth year on the varsity. Lexi Clow, Hastings: A senior captain for the Saxons who earned all-conference and alldistrict honors this season. Head coach Amy Hubbell called her a great leader and a powerhouse base, who even as a senior worked to get new gymnastics skills for the season. Chelsea Chase, Lakewood: A junior in her third year on the Viking varsity, Chase was named first team all conference this year for the second year in a row. Chase also was named honorable mention all-region this season. Megan Cronk, Lakewood: A junior in her second year on the varsity, Cronk was named first team all-conference in the CAAC-White this year. She was also a first team all-district honoree. Michela Curtis, Thornapple Kellogg: A sophomore who came up big for the Trojans Tiffani Ackerson Kami McCowan in all three rounds. Curtis was named all-conference, all-district and second team all-region this season. Dylan Johns, Hastings: A tough back spotter who performed in all three rounds for the Saxons in her senior season. Johns was an all-conference and all-district performer with great voice, precision and jumps. Dakota Jordan, Thornapple Kellogg: A sophomore who earned honorable mention All-State in Division 2 this season, as well as academic all-state honors. She was also recognized as an all-conference, all-district and all-region performer. Brooklyn Lamange, Thornapple Kellogg: A junior who competes in all three rounds for the TK varsity. Lamange was named all-conference, alldistrict and all-region this season. Kami McCowan, Delton Kellogg: A senior tumbler and flyer, McCowan competed in all three rounds during her third year on the varsity. McCowan was second-team all-district in Division 3 this winter. Samantha Thompson, Hastings: A senior who coach Hubbell calls a fearless flyer, who also worked hard to b a tumbler for the first time for the team this season. She won both all-conference and all-district honors this year. Competitive Cheer Second Team Corinthia Anderson, Delton Kellogg: A junior in her second year on the Panther varsity, she took part in all three rounds this season for the Panthers. Anderson took a step forward, learning the double twist cradle this season. Molly Birman, Hastings: A senior captain for the Saxons, coach Hubbell said she was a “backspotter who inspired her fairly-new stunt group to great heights.” A quiet leader in all three rounds, Birman was named honorable mention all-conference in the O-K Gold this year. Danica Desgranges, Lakewood: A senior in her first year with the Viking varsity, Desgranges as named honorable mention allconference in the CAAC-White. Desgranges also earned first team all-dis- All-conference guys lead all-county swim team by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Thornapple Kellogg/Hastings varsity boys’ swimming and diving team won one conference championship this year, in the event that needs four teammates to combine using all four strokes - the 200-yard medley relay. That foursome leads a team of solid swimmers who helped the TK/Hastings team to another fine year in the pool, and the allcounty teams also include a diver who qualified for regionals as a freshman. Here are the 2011-12 All-Barry County Boys’ Swimming and Diving teams. trict honors in Division 3. Paige Downs, Hastings: A junior flyer who took part in all three rounds this season, earning all-conference and all-district honors. “She is a beautiful flyer, with such expression on her face,” said coach Hubbell. “She really came out of her shell this year, and never failed to work hard.” Patricia Grinage, Maple Valley: A junior backspot and base, Grinage had another solid year for the Lions this winter. This was her third year on the varsity for the Lions. Kenzie Hamming, Thornapple Kellogg: A junior who earned all-conference honors for TK this winter, as well as second team alldistrict and second team all-region awards. Hamming competed in all three rounds for the Trojans. Desirae Heers, Hastings: A junior who was a flyer for the Saxon varsity for the first time this season, Heers also continued to show off her fine tumbling skills. “She has always been a great gymnast,” said coach Hubbell, “but this year really added to her talent by improving her flying skills.” Megan Hokanson, Lakewood: A secondyear varsity cheerleader, Hokanson was named first team all-conference in the CAAC-White this year. She was also a first team all-district performer this season. Elizabeth Kienutske, Maple Valley: A three-year varsity cheerleader for the Lions, Kienutske was an outstanding base for the Lions once again in her senior season. She was named honorable mention all-dis- for your Special Event! Free Home of the Brave e Thanks to th OME WELCOME H MICHAEL! OUR OWN MVP Daegan Mix the conference champion 200-yard medley relay team, Mix was a solid competitor in the sprint freestyle events all year. He placed sixth in the 50-yard freestyle at the conference meet. Levi Ryfiak, TK/Hastings: A sophomore who took part in the Trojan team’s win in the 200-yard medley relay championship at the O-K Rainbow Tier III Conference Meet. Ryfiak also was third in the 200-yard individual medley at the conference meet and set a team-record in the 100-yard butterfly. Dexx VanHouten, TK/Hastings: A sophomore in his second year on the varsity, VanHouten contributed to a number of relays throughout the year, and had a seventh place finish in the 100-yard breaststroke at the conference meet. Zack Zwiernikowski, TK/Hastings: A senior who was a solid varsity contributor for four years. He earned all-conference honors in the O-K Rainbow Tier III. He was a member of the 200-yard medley relay team that won a conference title, and also placed sixth in the 100-yard butterfly and fifth in the 100-yard backstroke at the conference meet. Boys’ Swimming & Diving Second Team Zack Zwiernikowski trict in Division 4. Heather Raymond, Thornapple Kellogg: Raymond earned honorable mention all-conference in the O-K Gold this season, competing in all three rounds for the Trojans. During the postseason, Raymond was honored as a second team all-district performer and an honorable mention all-region performer. Stephanie Runge, Thornapple Kellogg: Runge finished her junior season for the Trojans by earning second team all-district and honorable mention all-region awards. Runge was also an honorable mention allconference performer for TK who competed in all three rounds. Riley Smith, Delton Kellogg: A freshman, Smith was a great base for the Panthers this season according to her coach Zoe Reynolds. One of the highlights of the season for her was mastering her back tuck. Aly Spitzley, Lakewood: A junior with three years of varsity experience, Spitzley was named first team all-conference in the CAAC-White this year. She was also named first team all-district in 2012. BIG Banners Boys’ Swimming & Diving First Team Craig Gagnon, TK/Hastings: A senior who finished his third varsity season as a team captain. He earned all-conference honors in the O-K Rainbow Tier III this season. He was a part of TK/Hastings’ conference championship winning 200-yard medley relay team, and also placed third in the 200yard freestyle and fifth in the 100-yard breaststroke at the conference championship. Daegan Mix, TK/Hastings: A member of Paige Downs Jared Bailey, TK/Hastings: As a freshman he placed tenth in the 500-yard freestyle at the conference meet at the end of the season. Coach Tyler Bultema said that he has a great attitude and will be a valuable member of the team for the next three years. Carl Franson, TK/Hastings: A senior in his fourth year on the varsity, Franson was a very versatile athlete for the team. He placed 16th at the conference meet in both the 100-yard freestyle and the 200-yard freestyle. Brandon Gray, TK/Hastings: A freshman, Gray was 12th in the 100-yard backstroke at the conference meet for TK/Hastings, and also did a solid job in the freestyle distance races for the team throughout the year. Fredrik Isgard, TK/Hastings: Isgard competed in both the sprint and distance freestyle events for the team this winter. He placed 13th in the 50-yard freestyle at the conference meet and 11th in the 500-yard freestyle. Nate Ryfiak, TK/Hastings: A freshman with little diving experience, Ryfiak improved greatly throughout the year, placing seventh at the conference meet and qualifying for the Division 1 Regional competition. Chad Singleterry, TK/Hastings: A twoyear varsity swimmer, Singleterry placed tenth in the 50-yard freestyle and 15th in the 100-yard breaststroke at the conference meet. Singleterry was also a big relay contributor for the TK/Hastings team throughout the season. • Birthdays • Anniversaries • Graduations • Weddings • Reunions Congratulations Aaron Banners can be output in full color on bond stock, photo paper, heavy cover stock, canvas or plastic materials! 2x6 ft. Banner $ 95 19 $ 2495 as low as 2x8 ft. Banner as low as SAME DAY SERVICE ON MOST BANNERS! Decorative Mailbox Rent for just $ 25 FULL COLOR 20 Invitations & Announcements priced as low as $ 2495 Great for weddings, anniversaries, birthdays & Graduation Open House! FREE DOUBLE PRINTS with every order now thru March 30 Let Printing Plus help you get a professional look to your Senior wallets! 9 wallet size to a page SENIOR PHOTOS $ from 95 4 (additional text copy extra) 1351 N.Broadway (M-43) Hastings 269.945.9105 OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:30 - 5:30 �Page 18 — Thursday, March 22, 2012 — The Hastings Banner The bridge is out The removal of the Michigan Avenue bridge deck and supporting steel framework was completed last week. A protective cofferdam is being installed around the existing center supporting pier. The cofferdam is a metal containment structure that will be used to capture materials during the demolition of the bridge’s center supporting pier. The cofferdam is scheduled to be completed this week, with the center pier demolition taking expected to take four days. The new bridge will have clear-span concrete box beams supporting the bridge deck and will not require the construction of a new center support pier. The open area under the bridge is designed to accommodate canoers, kayakers, tubers and fishermen. MDOT hosting open house for M-43, M-37 project Michigan Department of Transportation staff invites residents and business owners to an open house to discuss the planned repaving and reconstruction on M-43 and M-37 in Hastings. The open house will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 28, at Hastings City Hall, 201 E. State St. MDOT will be reconstructing M-43 from the north Hastings city limits to State Street, and repaving M-37 from State Street south to Hanover Street. Stop of rolling meth lab leads police to home operation Spring Into Action! with our 1 Year Loan at 1 % APR* Hastings Police and Michigan State Police closed Court Street in Hastings during the investigation of a methamphetamine lab in the trunk of a parked car. The investigation led to another lab on Star School Road. Now is a great time to begin that special project! Other great rates on longer term loans are also available. Contact any Hastings City Bank lender for details. *Annual percentage rate. Subject to credit review and approval. This is a personal unsecured loan. Rates subject to change. Automatic loan payment from a Hastings City Bank checking account with direct deposit is required to obtain this rate. Minimum loan amount is $5,000. Offer is available only on new Hastings City Bank loans. There are no processing or closing fees on this one year loan special. Example: a $5,000 loan at 1.0% APR for 12 months would have a monthly payment of $418.92. 1-888-422-2280 The $5 million project is scheduled from mid-April through November and includes repairing the M-43 bridge over the Thornapple River, sidewalk and traffic signal upgrades, water main replacement and intersection improvements. Traffic will be maintained at all times via flag control and lane shifts. MDOT staff will be at the open house to hear comments and answer questions about the project. 77566559 Hastings Police reported a possible methamphetamine “rolling lab” to Central Dispatch Wednesday, March 14, around 4:20 p.m. Officers received information that a 47year-old Hastings man might have had illegal and drug-related items in his car which was parked in the 200 block of South Church Street. Officers met the man as he left the courthouse. When officers confirmed that the items were methamphetamines or waste created in the production of the illegal drug, they called in specially trained meth responders to search the vehicle’s trunk. The man was arrested and is currently on bond for another recent meth-related incident on Madison Street. During the investigation, officers also learned of another possible meth lab in the 1600 block of Star School Road. Hastings officers, state troopers and Barry County Sheriff’s Deputies, secured the home while Hastings officers began a search warrant process. Before the warrant was completed, the owner arrived home and contact was made with additional persons inside the home. A search of the interior revealed an odor of meth production, as well as other items consistent with the production of meth. Additional items consistent with meth production were discovered in the trunk of a car at the property. A 34-year-old Hastings man made admissions a short time later involving the meth waste and the production of meth, but resisted arrest. Additional charges are being considered for other suspects. The home on Star School Road has been condemned by the Barry-Eaton District Health Department until it has been cleaned of all residual methamphetamine. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-03-29.pdf 0bda52ba9437a6f957910f3c61c0a5b8 PDF Text Text United Way celebrates campaign County is building AAA culture Sneak peek at Saxon spring sports See Story on Page 2 See Editorial on Page 4 See Stories on Pages 15 & 16 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 13 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, March 29, 2012 Splash pad to be installed next to theater NEWS BRIEFS Association for Blind schedules seminars Two upcoming seminars for persons in Barry County with visual impairments will be sponsored by the Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired of Grand Rapids May 9 and Oct. 10 at the Commission on Aging, 320 W. Woodlawn in Hastings. The presentations will focus on the ideas, tools, and technology that visually impaired people have found helpful for remaining independent. Both seminars will be held from 1:30 to 3 p.m. The Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired has temporarily suspended its monthly meetings due to low attendance. However, it does plan to continue its services to Barry County residents including access to its low vision clinic and its individual teaching services for the visually impaired in Barry County. by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Children and their families may soon have a place in downtown Hastings to splash, play and cool off during hot and humid summer days — some place other than the fountain on the courthouse lawn. Monday evening, the Hastings City Council unanimously approved a motion to allow the mayor and city clerk to sign an agreement with Goodrich Quality Theaters Inc. to purchase the vacant lot on the east side of Hastings Cinema 4. The land will be used to construct a splash pad water park with motion-activated fountains and sprays for young and old alike to enjoy. The agreement allows the city to purchase the land from Goodrich for $10; but Goodrich retains the right to repurchase the land in land less than 10 years, should it wish to expand its existing facilities. If Goodrich decides to This illustration is a preliminary design showing the elevation of the mini water park next to the theater. Good Friday Cross Walk is next week The annual Good Friday Cross Walk will be April 6, beginning at 9:30 a.m. at Grace Lutheran Church, 239 E. North St., Hastings. Participants walk in silence during the 60- to 90-minute walk, using the time to reflect on the meaning of Jesus’ crucifixion. The route includes going south on Michigan Avenue to State Street, north on Broadway, east on Mill Street and north on Michigan Avenue back to the church. Drivers will be available to furnish a ride to people who cannot walk the entire distance, or participants may drop in and out, as needed. For more information, call the church, 269-945-9414 or 269-945-2645. Therapeutic riding program seeks volunteers Volunteers are needed to help with the Spirit Farm Therapeutic Riding Program at YMCA Camp Manitou-Lin at Barlow Lake near Middleville. Volunteers walk an average of three miles per day as they assist specialneeds riders, giving them the chance to ride horses in a controlled, therapeutic and safe setting. Riders often build relationships with the horses, volunteers and instructors. Volunteers lead the horses and help the riders. Volunteers should be able to commit at least two or three hours per week during the day or evening for six weeks. The spring riding sessions start April 16. All volunteers need to attend a volunteer training session Monday, April 9, from 6 to 8 p.m. For more information or to sign up as a volunteer, call Karen at 269-945-1789. Keep your friends and relatives INFORMED! Send them The BANNER To subscribe, call us at... 269-945-9554 This splash pad is a typical example of what the City of Hastings and the Downtown Development Authority hope to build on the northwest corner of East State and North Church streets, next to Hastings 4 theater. repurchase the parcel, it will do so for the unamortized value of any improvements that the city installs on the site. “We were willing to enter into a flexible, win/win, agreement with Goodrich Quality Theaters Inc. in order to come up with a way to utilize the site that would benefit all involved,” said Hastings community development director John Hart. “We did not want to impede the ability of the theater to expand if that is what is desired and or needed in the future. We think the theater is a great anchor business to have downtown. We have longterm leases and or easements with other parties to achieve such goals and development projects.’ The Hastings Downtown Development Authority and two private donors have pledged funds to construct the splash pad and after the preliminary plans for the site, which will include public restrooms, have been drawn up, the level of investment for each party will be determined. “What an amazing opportunity we have to create a recreational attraction downtown that many other communities are seeking to develop and are struggling to find the funds to do it,” said Hart. “Because we have a strong DDA, philanthropic business leaders and residents, wonderful community partners, dedicated merchants and property owners and a driven city council, we are able to combine efforts to make such a grand community investment possible for all to visit and enjoy.” Hart said final concept drawings and estimates are being put together now and should be complete by the end of April. He said he anticipates construction will begin in mid- to late summer and be completed by fall. “With the help of Goodrich Theaters and our private community donors, we hope to build an exciting and vibrant place for community members and visitors to cool off, recreate, relax and enjoy the wonderful downtown Hastings atmosphere,” said Hart. “These splash pads/plazas have proven to be very successful in communities throughout Michigan and in many states within the U.S. They get folks to plan their trips to the communities and to stay longer, shopping, dinning and entertaining themselves.” The splash pad plaza is proposed to be See SPLASH PAD, page 8 Hastings Fiberglass receives prestigious wellness program award by Doug VanderLaan Editor From the start, Dave Baum was a believer. If a corporate wellness program at Hastings Fiberglass could increase productivity, he was on board. What the man sitting in the president’s chair didn’t anticipate was how much better he himself would feel when the company took on an ambitious agenda to alter personal lifestyles and improve overall health. “I believe you’ve got to show leadership from the top,” says Baum, of taking on a commitment to personal health goals, “but, when I became more physically active, I felt less stressed.” The results have been similarly dramatic for the company’s 75-employee workforce. “Look at these numbers,” Baum says with amazement of the latest report from Holtyn Associates, a Kalamazoo worksite wellness consultant guiding the Hastings Fiberglass program. “Of our 75 employees, 81 percent have increased their physical activity, 59 percent have lost weight, 36 percent have lowered their blood pressure, and 31 percent have reduced their fat intake.” For their dramatic results and for the innovative steps they’ve designed and participated in, Hastings Fiberglass employees were recently honored with the inaugural Edington Next Practice Award, a recognition of only five companies nationwide that also included corporate giant IBM. Baum received the award on behalf of the Hastings Fiberglass during a ceremony at the Health Management Research Center in Ann Arbor from the award’s namesake, Dee W. Edington. Edington founded the research center and used his research in kinesiology, mathematics and biochemistry to focus on vitality and the precursors of disease. His specific interest has been in how individual health care management, worksite wellness activities and other programs within organizations can impact health care cost containment, disability, performance and human resources development. Posing with the inaugural Edington Next Practice Award is Dave Baum, president of Hastings Fiberglass. “People have heard of best practices,” says Baum of Edington’s work. “He is constantly looking at what top companies are doing that will become the next best practices. That’s why they call it the Next Practice Award.” That is also why Hastings Fiberglass is in such esteemed company. Baum explains that, when a group of local companies formed the Barry County Healthier Coalition 10 years ago to address the rising cost of health care, it became apparent that the key flex point would be preven- tion and wellness — nipping sickness and disease before it takes hold and before treatment costs spin wildly out of control. In 2006, Hastings Fiberglass instituted a wellness program with the help of Holtyn Associates. That program began with health risk assessments for each employee and continue with health coaching today. “Everybody has a personal conference on company property and company time with a wellness coach once or twice a year,” explains Baum, “and that personal face-foface is the key to success. The first year, our employees were a little leery from the personal side but, when they could see improvements after about a year, it really took hold.” In fact, Baum calls it a snowball effect. The company now has an eight-person wellness committee that’s constantly analyzing results and activities to keep employees enthusiastically pursuing personal goals. Contests such as step challenges keep the company focused, connected, and accomplished. And how about from the president’s chair — has it all brought any difference to the bottom line? “Where we see the return on investment is in productivity, in morale, in reduced absenteeism and in reduced presenteeism,” says Baum with a smile, knowing from where the next question will come. “Presenteeism is when an employee is present, but not performing up to full potential.” That, in many cases, is a health-related issue. So dramatic have the results been at Hastings Fiberglass, that Baum and his colleagues in the health care coalition are already planning next steps — or next best practices. “We can’t have just health workplaces and healthy individuals,” says Baum. “We also have to have healthy communities.” As he points out, healthy individuals can bring wellness and prevention to their families who might not have the benefit of work- See WELLNESS, page 9 �Page 2 — Thursday, March 29, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Barry County United Way celebrates campaign leaders and donors Despite a struggling economy, 11 new business donors and 63 residential donors contributed to the 2011-12 Barry County United Way campaign, according to Barry County United Way Executive Director Lani Forbes. Forbes opened the 2011-12 annual victory celebration at the Barry County Commission on Aging Thursday, March 25, by recognizing the numerous residential donors who helped make this year’s drive a success. She also recognized the campaign team, which was headed up by co-chairs Don and Carrie Wilgus. Campaign team members included Pat Buckland, Chris Fluke, Jeff Jeanette, Brian McKeown, Keith Murphy, David Hatfield, Lyn Briel, Tammy Pennington, Carl Schoessel, Karen Scoby, Linda Watson and Patty Woods. Also recognized were United Way staff Amanda Hoeksma, housing resource specialist; Cathy Yates, intake specialist; and Morgan Johnson, volunteer center director. During the luncheon the following awards were presented: Bronze Awards were given to employee campaigns that had up to 30 percent participation, or 25 to 49 percent of employee potential. Receiving the Bronze Award were Barry County Administration, Barry County Lumber, Barry County Road Commission, Barry County Services, Barry County Telephone, Barry-Eaton District Health Department, Bradford White Corp., Delton Kellogg Schools, Dr. Chris Noah, Dr. David Woodliff, Dr. James Weatherhead, Dr. Wes VonSeggern, Gerald R. Ford Boy Scouts, Hastings Area Schools, Hospital Purchasing Service, Lakewood Public Schools, Local 1002, Local 5965, Northland Optical, Viking Corporation and WalMart. Silver Awards are given to employee campaigns that attained 31 to 50 percent participation, or 50 to 74 percent of employee potential. Receiving Silver Awards were Barry County 911, Barry County Sheriff’s Department, BCN Technical, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Barry Intermediate School District, CASA, Chemical Bank, City of Hastings, Dewey’s Auto Body, DMH Custom Drywall, Dr. Eldon Cassell, Dr. Joe Seelig, Fall Creek, Fifth Third Bank, Goodrich Quality Theater, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Pennock Hospital, Pharmacy Care, Seasonal Grille, Second Hand Corners, Thornapple Kellogg Schools, Thornapple Manor, TriClor, Troy Dalman Agency, TVCCU, Walldorff Brewpub and Wheeler Marine. Gold Awards were given to employee campaigns that had 51 to 70 percent participation, or 75 to 99 percent of employee potential. Receiving Gold Awards were Dr. Amy and Phil Poholski, Dr. Glen Hahn, Dr. Kim Norris and Dr. Mike Nosonov, Hastings Internal Medicine, Hastings Pediatrics, J-Ad Graphics, Louis Padnos Inc., Nancy McClear, McKeown Kraii and Phillips, Miller Real Estate, MSU Extension, Pennock Medical Staff, Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, Thornapple Township, Tires 2000, Union Bank, Werebay 4 U and Women’s Health First. The Award of Excellence is given to employee campaigns that have 71 to 90 percent Participation, or 100 percent of potential. Receiving Awards of Excellence were Barry Community Foundation, Barry County Mental Health, Barry County United Way Board, BCTGM Local 326, Beeler Gores Funeral Home, Bosley Pharmacy, Buckland Insurance, Charlton Park, Child Abuse Prevention Council, Coleman Agency, Commercial Bank, Commission on Aging, Consumers Energy, Defying Gravity Enterprises, Dr. Brian McKeown, Eaton Federal Savings, Family Support Center, Flexfab/FHI, Food Bank of South Central Michigan, Girrbach Funeral Home, Green Gables Haven, Hastings City Bank, Hastings Fiberglass, Hastings Mutual Insurance Company, Hodges Jewelry, Johnson and Company, Law Weathers, Maple Valley Pharmacy, Performance Plus, Pierce Cedar Creek Institute, Quality Aluminum, Thornapple Kellogg students, Tripp and Tagg, Utility Workers of America 257, Walker Fluke and Sheldon, Williams Gores Funeral Home and Barry County YMCA. Leadership Awards were given to individuals for contributions over $1,000. The United Way had 62 Leadership Award winners, an increase of seven donors over the previous year. Together, they contributed a total of $134,159. Receiving Leadership Awards were Jeff Aley, Joe Babiak, Dave Baum, Jim Blake and Sheryl Lewis Blake, Jeff Booi, Mike Bosma, Danny and Lyn Briel, Cort and Lisa Collison, Troy and Janine Dalman, Jim and Judy DeCamp, Ken and Valerie DeCamp, Matt and Katie DeCamp, Dr. Paul Dewitt, Kristy Dombkowski, Guylaine Donovan, Mike and Michelle Duits, Dr. Diane Ebaugh and Mike Dimond, Kimberly Finkbeiner, Chris and Laura Fluke, JD and Lani Forbes, Florence Goodyear, Hall Family Foundation, Doug and Jan Hartough, Rich and Joan Heffelbower, Ken Holst, Jim and Cindy Horton, John Jacobs, Keith Jandahl, Brad and Karin Johnson, Mark and Sue Kolanowski, Stephen and Kristen Laubaugh, Patrick McKee, Dr. Brian McKeown, Scott and Deb McKeown, Michael McLellen, Shane and Lori McNeill, Peter Murray, Peter O’Brien, Preston and Barbara Parish, Chuck and Tammy Pennington, Michael Pessetti, Dan Piechnik, Cynthia Poort, Charles Rittenhouse, Bill Chris Fluke from Walker, Fluke and Sheldon (center) receives the Best Business Campaign Award from United Way campaign co-chairs Don and Carrie Wilgus. Bonnie Hildreth, (left) Jim Toburen and Laurie Black display the Florence Tyden Groos Award earned by the Barry Community Foundation. Displaying their Gold Award certificates are (from left) Dr. Carrie Wilgus, Hastings Pediatrics; Tom Evans, Prosecutor’s office; Cort Collison, Union Bank; Kathy Pennington, MSUE; and Bobbie Wilkins, J-Ad Graphics. Accepting Alexis de Tocqueville Awards are (from left) Bill Rohr and Tina Borehma, representing Flexfab/FHI; Dick Groos; and Melissa Mesara, Meritt Weiler, Sarrah Johnson, Chris Allwardt, and Alan Brodbeck, representing Hastings Mutual Insurance Company. Campaign Co-chairs Don (left) and Carrie Wilgus (right) pose for Barry County Commission on Aging Director Tammy Pennington (second from left) and Corally O’Dell after presented the COA with the Barry County United Way’s Give Today, Change Tomorrow Award. Silver Award earners on hand to receive their certificates include (from left) Christine Hiar, DMH Custom Drywall; Brandon Johnson, Fifth Third Bank; Janine Dalman, Pennock Hospital; Lyn Briel, Thornapple Manor; and Carl Schoessel, Walldorff Brewpub and Bistro. Rohr, Robert and LuAnn Schnur, Carol Svihl, Nathan and Becky Tagg, Cynthia Teater, Randy and Brenda Teegardin, Donna Thomas, Bill and Lisa Wallace, Marty Walsh, Dana Walters, Doug and Robin Welton, Don and Carrie Wilgus, Jim Wincek and Patty Woods The United way also recognized donors who had made contributions for 10 and 25 years or more. “As long as we are on individual gifts, we have some people who we need to thank for their long-term dedication to the United Way,” said Forbes. “If you noticed on your pledge card, we asked for the last couple of years ‘How long have you been a donor to United Way?’ Today we are going to celebrate those who have been contributors for 10 and 25 years.” Recognized for being donors for 10 years donors were Janie Bergeron from Green Gables Haven; residential donors Steve and Julie DeBoer and Charlie and Betsy Johnson; Terry Delp from Bradford White; Tammy Dickinson; Sally Moriarty and Mindy Shepler from Hastings Mutual Insurance Company; Fran French from Hastings City Bank; Janice Vrooman from Viking Corporation; and Carla Wilson Neil from Pennock Hospital. Barry County Administrator Michael Recognized as 25 year donors were Vicki Brown (left) accepts a Bronze Award Butler from Coleman Agency; Dr. Paul from Barry County United Way Director DeWitt; and Mark Kolanowski from Hastings Lani Forbes. City Bank. The Best Community Campaign Award The Alexis de Tocqueville Award is a national award from United Way of America was awarded to a business that demonstrates to corporations and individuals who con- year-round support not only to the United Way but to the community as a whole, protribute more than $10,000. “We are very fortunate for a community viding school mentors, coats, boots and other our size to be presenting five of these awards, items to school children; supporting the Fresh Food Initiative; providing volunteers for the up from four last year,” said Forbes. Alexis de Tocqueville awards were present- Day of Caring; and more. “They have the highest percent of leadered to Flexfab/FHI, Dick Groos, Hastings Mutual Insurance Company, Doug and ship donors among employee campaign and Margaret DeCamp, and Dave and Maggie have a really great time during their United Coleman. Together, the corporations and indi- Way campaign week,” said Forbes as she presented the award to Hastings Mutual viduals contributed $84,991. Leadership Award winners present at Thursday’s award luncheon are (from left) Don and Carrie Wilgus, Donna Thomas, Tammy Pennington, Chris Fluke, Michelle Duits, Cort Collison, Joe Babiak, Janine Dalman, Clarissa Boggs-Blake, John Jacobs, Dana Walters, Bill Rohr and Patty Woods. vision for our community. This year, the Insurance Company. Best Professional Campaign is awarded to choice was clear. The Florence Tyden Groos the best campaign among dentists, doctors, Award goes to an organization that not only has vision but acts on it as well as having 100 attorneys and accountant offices. “This business not only had 100 percent percent participation each of their 15 years of participation in the campaign, they also pro- existence.” The Give Today, Change Tomorrow Award vided training to our partner agencies, they participate in Day of Caring, provided was given to the Barry County Commission Christmas presents to the Stuff the Station on Aging. “This award is being given to an organizaprogram and support the backpack program, and had a 6 percent increase in their cam- tion that does just that, they give to change paign,” said Forbes before presenting the our future,” said Forbes. “While they are best award to representatives from Walker, Fluke known for their work with seniors, they are always willing to open their building for and Sheldon. The Best Emerging Campaign award was meetings, host events such as today, and volunteer to help at many events held throughout presented to Quality Aluminum. “Just two years ago, this organization did- our community, with a participation rate of 83 n’t have an employee campaign,” said Forbes. percent and a 22.5 percent increase in giv“This year, they not only had a 335 percent ing.” Forbes ended by congratulating Don and increase in their campaign but added a leaderCarrie Wilgus for a successful campaign. ship donor.” “Well, there you have it Carrie and Don — The second annual Florence Tyden Groos Award was presented to the Barry many great campaigns throughout our community,” she said. “We want to thank you for Community Foundation. “Last year, to honor our 75th anniversary, all you have done to make this campaign a we gave out our first Florence Tyden Groos success. While we are in these years of diffiAwards,” said Forbes. “With everything she culty for many, you have brought our comhas meant to this organization we have chosen munity together through our Give Today, to honor one organization that epitomizes her Change Tomorrow campaign.” �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 29, 2012 — Page 3 Conversations on education planned in local communities by David DeDecker Staff Writer Barry County Hometown Partnership will co-host community conversations throughout Barry County in April and May. The conversations will focus on Michigan’s prekindergarten through 12th grade education system and student learning. During the 90-minute interactive focus groups, citizens will have the opportunity to discuss key issues and choices related to education and the impact on Barry County. The conversation will be one of 250 similar conversations occurring throughout Michigan. The community conversations will take place at Maple Valley High School April 10 from 7 to 9 p.m.; Delton District Library April 26 from 5:30 to 7 p.m.; the Middle Villa Inn May 2 from 5:30 to 7 p.m.; and in Hastings at the Barry County Enrichment Center May 10 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Citizens, teachers, students, parents and business people are invited to participate in the discussions. Goals of the conversations include informing the community about education choices; gathering perspectives and preferences on major education policy and reforms; amplifying the voices of Michigan residents; and providing options for becoming more involved to improve educational opportunities. Pre-registration is requested in order for information to be mailed to participants prior to the event. RSVP to www.ymcaofbarrycounty.org and click on “Education Forum” at least five days prior to the date of the conversation chosen. To learn more about the community conversation and it’s co-host, Center for Michigan, visit www.thecenterformichigan.net. Hastings BPA students win 14 awards at state conference Two students qualify for national competition Judge McDowell to seek re-election by David DeDecker Staff Writer Barry County Circuit Court was standingroom only as Judge Amy McDowell welcomed guests and supporters to her formal reelection campaign announcement March 22. McDowell will be on the ballot in November. Hastings attorney and McDowell campaign manager Nathan Tagg introduced McDowell’s first guest, retired Barry County Circuit Court Judge James Fisher. “Now that I am retired, it makes it so much easier for me to know that we have somebody like Judge McDowell, who is working with Judge [William] Doherty and Judge [Michael] Schipper doing a great job of the [Barry County Unified Court] tradition, which I started 16 years ago with Judge [Richard] Shaw and Judge [Gary] Holman,” said Fisher. “I can tell you I will be enthusiastically endorsing Amy’s re-election this year. I am really happy to see what a great job she is doing.” Michigan Lt. Gov. Brian Calley reminded those attending that the first local judicial appointment made by the Snyder Administration was the appointment of Amy McDowell to the Barry County Circuit Court bench. “We couldn’t be prouder,” said Calley. “The court system in Barry County is a good example for the rest of the state ... I can’t think of a better example of a person who really gets that, and to carry the legacy forward and further develop it — to use innovation in order to make the process and implementation of law and justice work even better. Continuous improvement is something we’d do well to adopt in government. That’s what you have here, and that’s what you have in Circuit Court Judge Amy McDowell announces she is seeking re-election to the Barry County bench. Amy McDowell. This is really quite a privilege to support the candidacy of Amy McDowell.” McDowell thanked her guest speakers and others as she stepped to the podium. Hastings High School students who competed in the Business Professionals of America state convention last week include (front row, from left) Ethan Haywood, Victoria Fueri, Cindy Tebo, Amber Pickard, Hannah Alspaugh, (middle) Alyssa Larsen, Shelby Price, Hannah Smith, Lindy Kloosterman, Kim Smith, (back) Taylor Horton, Damon Cove, Christine Maurer, Shelby Kubek and Sarah Alspaugh. Last weekend, 15 members of the Hastings High School Business Professionals of America chapter attended the 40th annual Michigan BPA State Leadership Conference at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel in Grand Rapids. While there, students competed in various business skills competitions, visited with representatives from many colleges at a college fair, enjoyed a formal dinner and dance, toured local museums, and participated in the election process to select the new state officer team. Their hard work, preparation and dedication showed in the results, said Andrew Mains, who, with fellow HHS teacher Tracy George serves as an advisor for the local chapter. Two of the students — Hannah Smith and Christine Maurer — are eligible to represent Hastings High School at the national leadership conference in Chicago the last week of April. The top two team event winners and top five individual winners qualify for the national competition. Maurer, a junior, placed third in banking and finance. This event tests the students’ knowledge of bank operations, bank services, loans, credit administration and customer service. Smith, a senior, placed fourth in advanced accounting, which asks the students to interpret and analyze sole proprietorships, partnerships and corporate financial accounting data using manual methods. Both Smith and Maurer will be first-time attendees to the national leadership conference. The parliamentary procedure team, consisting of Cindy Tebo, Victoria Fueri, Damon Cove, Shelby Price, Alyssa Larsen and Lindy Kloosterman, was ecstatic to finish in third place. “This ranking ties our previous best with last year’s third-place finish, as well,” said Mains. “All six of the team members are eligible to return next year, since we have no graduating seniors on the team.” “This was everyone’s first year on the Business Professionals of America Parliamentary Procedure Team, and there were a lot of growing pains, said Lindy Kloosterman, chapter president. “We practiced every week from the beginning of the school year, ran mock meetings, practiced taking tests and came together as a team. We plan on building on the knowledge we learned this year and again competing for the right to represent the state of Michigan at the national leadership conference in 2013.” The chapter and individual members brought home other awards, as well. Friday evening during the opening ceremonies, the Hastings BPA chapter was awarded the 2012 State Service Project Award, which recognizes the chapter that has the most involvement in the community. Over the course of the 2011-12 school year, students here participated in the Salvation Army clothing drive, gathering more than $10,000 worth of cloth- ing for the Salvation Army. Kloosterman and Vice President Shelby Kubek accepeted the award on stage, given by the Salvation Army. Hannah Alspaugh, Kim Smith, Amber Pickard, Christine Maurer and Lindy Kloosterman were awarded their Statesman Torch Award pins during the opening session Friday evening. The Torch program frames and guides a BPA members’ leadership and service to their chapters and communities. Students complete activities in the seven Torch categories — leadership; service; cooperation; knowledge; friendship; love, hope, faith; and patriotism — then log their activities in an online Torch resume. “Attending the state conference was a great experience,” said sophomore and first-year member Taylor Horton. “We all had a chance to place at the conference, no matter how we ranked at regionals. While at the conference, we were able to participate in open events and Legacy Launcher workshops, which will help us prepare to be future business professionals. Overall, the weekend was a blast.” The Business Professionals of America organization, formed in 1966, seeks to contribute to the preparation of a world-class workforce through the advancement of leadership, citizenship, academic and technological skills. BPA is the leading Career Technical Student Organization for students pursuing careers in business management, office administration, information technology and related career fields. There are more than 51,000 members in over 2,300 chapters in 23 states. HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, March 29 — Movie Memories celebrates the little gem “A Patch of Blue,” 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, March 30 — preschool story time enjoys reads about my clothes, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; Friends of the Library used book sale, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, March 31 — Friends of the Library used book sale, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday, April 2 — winter reading club for adults continues. Tuesday, April 3 — toddler story time will be the reader’s choice to 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30; open chess club, 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, April 4 — 1st to 3rd Club has a blast with kites, 4:15 to 5:15 p.m. Call the library for more information about any of the above, 269-945-4263. Retired Barry County Circuit Court Judge James Fisher (left) and Michigan Lt. Gov. Brian Calley converse after they endorse Judge Amy McDowell for re-election in November. “I have always had a healthy appreciation for the law, and what that means to me is access and fairness to all people. That’s why I chose to do this. I started out as an assistant prosecutor, became the chief assistant prosecutor and then went into private practice. My private practice focused primarily on helping people. I wasn’t interested in corporate law or insurance law. That’s just wasn’t where my heart was. My heart was in being an attorney for people and ensuring justice for people, and I have carried that over into this job. “I have taken this job very seriously,” she said; “to be compassionate and administer justice. Sometimes it has to be harsh justice, and sometimes it has to be rehabilitation. I was very excited and proud to be part of the adult drug court. I had seen from Judge Fisher and from my clients what it did for people. I am especially proud now to be part of the Swift and Sure Sanctions Program as well, which is a companion to drug court. The focus is on helping and rehabilitating people. “I realize I must enforce the law equally and follow the law as written. It is not always the decision I would have made, but it is the decision I am required to make, and I take that very seriously. I want to treat everyone I work with, everyone that comes into my courtroom, with respect. Not everyone is going to be happy when leaving court; it is an adversarial process. But, I want everyone to feel they were treated fairly and they understand the rulings I made. I am committed to doing just that, and it’s my intention to continue.” Participants were then invited to join McDowell for an celebration and snacks at a nearby restaurant. Spring Into Action! with our 1 Year Loan at 1 % APR* Now is a great time to begin that special project! Other great rates on longer term loans are also available. Contact any Hastings City Bank lender for details. *Annual percentage rate. Subject to credit review and approval. This is a personal unsecured loan. Rates subject to change. Automatic loan payment from a Hastings City Bank checking account with direct deposit is required to obtain this rate. Minimum loan amount is $5,000. Offer is available only on new Hastings City Bank loans. There are no processing or closing fees on this one year loan special. Example: a $5,000 loan at 1.0% APR for 12 months would have a monthly payment of $418.92. 1-888-422-2280 77566718 �Page 4 — Thursday, March 29, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Peachy hangout Building a AAA culture Did you see all the wildlife that has come out of hibernation or returned from seasonal southern homes in the past few weeks? This Eastern gray tree frog takes in solar rays Sunday afternoon, perched in a peach tree in Hastings. The tree frog couldn’t do much to combat the near freezing temperatures that followed Monday and Tuesday, but hopefully, this amphibian and others will stick around for pest control. We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or staff members that represents Barry County. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings 49058; or email news@jadgraphics.com. Do you know? Do you recognize this couple, who appears to raise dairy cows, perhaps Brown Swiss? Do you know why the photo was taken? Or when? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event. If Have you you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@j-adgraphics.com, or call 269-945-9554. We received no response to last week’s photo of two men in a field looking at what appears to be an old foundation. If you recognized the men or know why the photo was taken, we’d still like to hear from you? met? Mike Hodges believes in the ability of students to learn and succeed, and his job as a fifth grade teacher at Thornapple Kellogg’s Page Elementary School since 1996 gives him the opportunity to encourage and help young people realize their full potentials. But teaching was not his first career. Hodges grew up in Hastings and worked at his father’s jewelry store, Hodges Jewelry, until leaving for college in 1978. He graduated from Michigan State University in 1982 and worked at Service Merchandise as a jewelry manager until the early 1990s. He partially credits his wife’s family for helping him decide to switch careers to teaching. He met his wife, Roxy, in Maine. Both of her parents were teachers, and Hodges said they saw potential in Mike as an educator. Now, in addition to his regular classroom instructional time, Hodges finds himself involved in many other school activities. He helps run the school chess club with fellow teacher Curt Wissink and organizes the annual TK chess club tournament that this year brought more than 120 contestants. About every two years, Hodges also works with his students to create a movie that has premiered in past years at the Hastings 4 Theater. He’s also his school’s representative for the Thornapple Kellogg Education Association. He and Roxy have been married 21 years and have four daughters — Jackie is a student at Central Michigan University, Tracy is a freshman at Michigan State University, Lindsay is a junior at Thornapple Kellogg Mike Hodges High School, and Heidi is a freshman at TKHS. Favorite cartoon character: I’ve always been partial to Daffy Duck. Favorite sport: Football. I’m a die-hard Lions fan. If you won the lottery, what would you do? Take a trip to either England (for the Wimbledon tennis tournament) or Australia. Best advice you ever received: I’ve gotten great advice from friends and parents over the years, but I keep coming back to a quote from the Michael Keaton movie “Mr. Mom” — “It’s easy to forget what’s important … so don’t” Favorite book: Welcome to the Monkey House by Kurt Vonnegut. Favorite television show: All time, probably “Seinfeld” or “SCTV;” currently “House.” If you were a super hero, what super power would you most like to have? The ability to travel through time. Favorite song: “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen. Who would most like to meet and why? Steven Spielberg. I think the conversation about movies and movie-making would be wonderful. ~~~~~ Each week, The Banner profiles a person from the community working behind the scenes, whose efforts may not make headlines, but whose dedication makes Barry County shine. We’ll provide a quick peek each week at some of Barry County’s stars. Do you know someone who should be featured? Send information to Newsroom, Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. An important phone call was placed from Barry County last week. On one end was Michael Brown, administrator for Barry County. On the other were financial analysts from the renowned financial rating agency, Standard & Poor’s of New York City. The stakes are always high when you talk with Standard & Poor’s. As a designated rating agency of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, S&P publishes financial research and analysis on stocks and bonds from companies and municipalities all over the world. More importantly, S&P issues credit ratings on the debt of private and public corporations and governments. Snag a high rating on your bond, and it sells in the open market at high prices and low interest rates. Get snubbed, and you’re suddenly forced to give the bonds away at interest rates that will rock your budget. For Brown and Barry County, last week’s call didn’t carry that kind of pressure. Brown simply needed S&P’s renewal of the county’s AA rating for bonds that are being issued to finance the new 23bed dementia unit at the county-owned medical facility, Thornapple Manor. Barry County currently carries a AA on a scale that ranges from AAA to BBBminus. It’s a heady rating for a county the size of Barry, located miles from major municipalities that command more projects, more money and more clout with S&P. Only three counties in Michigan carry the highest AAA rating: Kent, Macomb and Oakland. Only two have earned the AA-plus status that Brown is seeking: Ingham and Washtenaw. All five are major population areas which may the biggest reason for Barry not being allowed among them. But even at the county’s current AA rating, it sits among counties much larger in population and budget, including Kalamazoo, Muskegon, Ottawa and Jackson. Last week’s call carried meaning because it marked a celebration of sorts for Barry County — and serves as an indication of how much pride and momentum we all should have for the good things happening here and the bright future. It was actually Brown who was applying pressure last week — to convince S&P officials that the Barry County story is one that deserves an even higher credit rating. It’s not been an easy road, but the people who love and have invested in this community have pushed us to a AA level. From their shoulders, we all stand now in a position to push even higher. With the inspiration of how far we’ve come, we now can make even bigger strides in quality-of-life issues like health, education, human services, employment, the arts, and leadership. Just look at the evidence of the culture this community has begun to build: • Last week, Dave Baum, of Hastings Fiberglass, invited me to stop by to talk about the latest recognition the company and the community received for achievements by the Barry County Healthcare Coalition. The coalition is comprised of officials from several area companies working together to improve employee health and reduce health care expenses. One of those companies, Hastings Fiberglass, is one of only six companies nationwide (another being IBM) honored by the distinguished Health Management Research Center at the University of Michigan for the dramatic results its employees have recorded in personal health wellness. A representative from the Kalamazoo company that monitors wellness issues at Hastings Fiberglass told Baum of his amazement that the Healthcare Coalition accomplished in Barry County in just three years what it took years and years to implement in Kalamazoo County. • The new Hastings Riverwalk, a 1.6mile trail for walkers, runners, cyclists, rollerbladers and nature lovers, dedicated its second phase last fall and now connects downtown Hastings with riverfront nature and neighborhoods. With 28-acre Tyden Park on one end and the 35 acres offered by Bliss Riverfront Park near Center Road, the city now has a beautiful encouragement to enjoy recreation and the out of doors. As trails outside the community get built, the Hastings Riverwalk will eventually connect to Middleville and the Paul Henry Trail on one end and to McKeown Bridge Park, Historic Charlton Park, and Nashville on the other. Partial funding — and commitment — from the Downtown Development Authority encouraged the Michigan departments of Natural Resources and Transportation to participate. • Kellogg Community College — a community asset story in itself — helped establish the new welding program being offered at Hastings High School. The program will provide welding certification and potentially immediate employment to program graduates in just two years time. It’s a program that follows an after-school enrichment program for high schoolers offered at the Gilmore Car Museum and a health care program at Pennock Hospital. All of these programs originated with an education committee at the Barry Intermediate School District which realized that BISD does not have a vocational training center like many other Michigan ISDs — so it set out to establish its own with the help of county businesses and resources. Again, if it needs to be done, it gets done in Barry County. • The Thornapple Arts Council Jazz Festival will bring more than 4,000 people to Barry County next week. Jazz bands from 54 Michigan high schools from as far as St. Ignace and professional bands from throughout the region will — for the ninth year — make this the largest event of its kind in the state. It all started with the passion of a retired band instructor, Joe LaJoye, and the insight of the Thornapple Arts Council. • Three companies that are headquartered in Barry County — Pennock Health Services, Hastings Mutual Insurance Company and Hastings City Bank — were recently named among the 101 Best and Brightest Companies to work for in the state of Michigan. • The Barry Community Enrichment Center, formerly the Hastings Presbyterian Church, is a shining example of collaboration. The historic building has become a home for several nonprofit and service agencies, including Barry Community Foundation, Barry County United Way, Thornapple Arts Council, Thornapple Players, Barry County Child Abuse Prevention Council, Navigate (College Access Network), Barry County Youth Advisory Council, Leadership Barry County, CASA for Kids and Community Action. Having so many organizations under one roof not only saves on overhead expenses, but it also allows the related agencies to work together and has already proven to be more convenient for some of the people they serve. These are but a few and only the latest examples of work and accomplishments by Barry County people — there are numerous instances of what Brown describes as building a culture in Barry County. In June, for example, the “new” Hastings Public Library, which was built solely through donations, will be celebrating its fifth anniversary. Events such as next month’s Vermontville Maple Syrup Festival, the Gun Lake Winterfest, Summerfest, celebrations in the area communities and the newly merging Woodpecker Festival in Middleville have demonstrated what interest, innovation and cooperation can build in Barry County. That’s become our culture — and what a job we’ve done. None of these have been easy programs to build or awards to earn, especially given the economic recession from which we may be emerging. These have not been overnight accomplishments, either. But, with an eye to what can be and with the daily commitment to being our best at what we do, we’ve built both a community and a culture. It’s a story that made Michael Brown’s call easier to make last week — and he’s intent on not letting his push for a high credit rating die, either. That’s a message for all of Barry County: We’re an admirable AA, we’re performing at AAA, and we have a solid foundation on which to build even further. In education, in business, in health care, and in the arts we have a great deal of work to do. The challenges before us — especially as they apply to funding education and health care — are daunting. But this is our time. Right now. Right here. The new song by Dierks Bentley, “Home,” reminds me so much of what we speak, and it can be an inspiration for all of us in this endeavor: “It’s been a long hard ride Got a ways to go But this still is the place That we all call home.” Doug VanderLaan, Editor Call 269-945-9554 to place your ad in the Hastings Banner. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 29, 2012 — Page 5 It’s time for a change IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV Speculators driving up gas prices, hurting American families To the editor: Once again, oil prices are spiking, threatening our economic recovery and causing real hardship for American families and businesses. The price of a barrel of oil is up nearly 30 percent since early October. Unfortunately, that’s nothing new. For years now, the commodity markets have taken the American people on an expensive and damaging roller coaster ride, with rapidly changing prices for crude oil. At the start of 2007, oil cost about $50 a barrel. By July of 2008, oil prices had shot to nearly $150 per barrel and then, by the end of the year, crashed to $35. In the beginning of 2011, oil prices took off again, climbing to more than $110 a barrel in May. By October, the price fell to $75 a barrel, a drop of more than 30 percent over four months. Now, 3 1/2 months later, oil prices are back up. One of the major factors driving these high prices isn’t getting enough attention: excessive speculation in the commodity markets. Reviews by the Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations, which I chair, have shown how the activities of speculators — those who don’t produce or use oil, but who bet on oil price changes — have overwhelmed normal supply and demand factors and pushed up prices at the expense of consumers and American business. In 2006, the subcommittee released a report that found that billions of dollars in trading by speculators in the crude oil market was responsible for an estimated $20 out of the then-$70 cost for a barrel of oil that year — and a corresponding rise in the price at the gas pump. Since then, even more speculators have entered the commodity markets. Today they bet billions of dollars on oil prices every day. Oil markets exist to enable producers of oil and users of oil to do business. But at a November hearing before my subcommittee, Gary Gensler, chairman of the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission, testified that 80 percent or more of oil trades are now made by speculators. In February, Forbes magazine, citing a recent report by Goldman Sachs, reported that oil speculation adds 56 cents to the price of each gallon of gas bought at the pump. Before speculators flooded the markets, oil prices were determined by fundamental market forces of supply and demand. When supplies were tight and demand high, prices went up. In contrast, when supplies were ample and demand low, prices went down. Nowadays, that relationship is largely absent. There is no shortage in the supply of oil globally, and the United States is producing more oil than it has in a decade. Last year, the United States actually exported more gasoline and other petroleum products than we imported. At the same time, U.S. demand for fuel actually sank. Under normal economic conditions, rising production and lower demand should mean lower prices. Instead, prices now are more volatile than ever. One key reason is that speculators are playing too large a role in the oil market. If we are to get a handle on oil prices, we have to curb excessive speculation. Congress has already taken the first steps. In July 2010, we told federal regulators to establish rules to prevent speculators from dominating markets and distorting prices. Last year, the regulators rolled out the new rules. They are not as tough as they should be, but the real problem is that they are not yet fully in force. That means this important new tool lies dormant. One big roadblock is that the financial industry has filed a lawsuit to stop it from taking effect. In the meantime, Congress should acknowledge that speculation is helping to drive up gas prices. We should urge federal regulators to exercise emergency authority, without waiting any longer, to clamp down on excessive speculation in the oil markets. Congress should also ask more of the president’s task force on commodity speculation. A year ago, Sen. Jack Reed of Rhode Island and I sent a letter asking President Obama to convene a task force to investigate and combat excessive oil speculation. While the attorney general did convene a task force, it focused on criminal cases instead of the broader problem of commodity traders driving up gas prices. The task force should urgently refocus and bring its firepower to the battle against excessive speculation. American families cannot afford the current price of oil and neither can our economy, which, after four years is beginning to turn a corner toward real growth. Ignoring how speculators affect oil prices could put our recovery at risk. Sen. Carl Levin, Michigan Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. What do you think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website, www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. Don’t forget to leave an opinion or comment. Last week’s question: A Detroit-area woman died this week after dueling with her husband in a roadrage incident. Have you ever encountered road rage? 80% 20% Yes No Full-time kindergarten? To the editor: I have followed articles in the Banner for the past several months in regard to proceedings in Barry County Circuit Court. In the articles published, I have been concerned about the actions of the prosecutor in regard to these cases. It seems apparent that the current prosecutor has fallen short on his duties as prosecutor and his requirements under Michigan law and court proceedings. Being familiar with court proceedings, I wonder why the current prosecutor, Tom Evans, does not follow court rules as all other attorneys are required to do. If he is unable or refuses to follow the court rules, then I feel he is not qualified to be the prosecutor for Barry County. A primary election will be held in August and a candidate seeking the office of prosecuting attorney is Julie Nakfoor Pratt. I have known Julie Nakfoor Pratt since she came to the Barry County area in 1989. I have seen her actions in the courtroom and have had numerous dealings with her while she was an assistant prosecutor here, in 1989 to 1992, and have followed her career as assistant prosecutor in Allegan County 1993 to 2005, and then again as the prosecutor here in Barry County in 2005 and 2006. Having dealt with assistant prosecutors and prosecutors in numerous counties in the state of Michigan, I have never seen anyone with more knowledge or concern for the laws of the state than Julie Nakfoor Pratt. Her demeanor in the courtroom has been beyond reproach. Her ability to serve the people of the county in a fair and professional manner has always been a key issue for her. If memory serves me right, the current prosecutor, during his campaign for office in the past election, stated he was not going to plea bargain cases. Was this his way of seeking votes at that time? Since his election to that office, he has plea bargained cases that have made headlines in the local paper, Channel 8 TV, and Channel 3 TV. Is this because he is not capable or doesn’t have the knowledge to handle the cases? It appears it is easier for him to deal away a case than it is to prosecute someone for the crime charged. I think it is time for the people of Barry County to replace him with a candidate who is knowledgeable, professional and caring. Let’s bring justice back to the victims of Barry County by electing Julie Nakfoor Pratt as prosecutor. Ken Langford, Hastings Dog park is a fabulous reality To the editor: With the beautiful spring weather that has come early to this area, our two dogs, Maggie and Spinner, have been able to once again enjoy visits to the Hastings Dog Park. We want to publicly thank the dedicated volunteers whose vision culminated in such a fabulous place for dogs to socialize. Their planning, advocacy, fundraising and physical labor have resulted in a park that’s clean, safe and relaxing for the dogs and their owners. They continue to support and maintain the park by mowing, planting grass seed and replenishing the park’s supplies. We also want to acknowledge city officials who worked with volunteers to make the Hastings Dog Park a reality. It truly is one more aspect that continues to make Hastings one of the 100 best small towns. Chuck and Tammy Pennington, Hastings All cases are important To the editor: It’s that time again when people go to the polls to elect their favorite candidates for whatever position. In this case, I am writing about the position of county prosecutor. We need someone who really checks into the cases that are presented, instead of maybe “sorting through” to the most important ones such as felonious assaults, homicides, etc. We need someone who will treat every case with the utmost importance, no matter how small, because to the victims, it is of the utmost importance. I feel that the current prosecutor only picks and chooses cases, primarily the ones that will benefit him politically. Julie Pratt has the compassion and drive to dig into all cases to help the persons, or victims, involved. Jane Power, Hastings State News Roundup Michigan’s aquatic invasive species plan updated The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality Friday said the draft aquatic invasive species state management plan is available for public comment, and a public meeting is scheduled in April to discuss the draft plan. The AIS State Management Plan details existing and proposed strategic actions needed to prevent the introduction and spread of AIS, and to limit the harmful effects in Michigan waters. Invasive species negatively impact Michigan’s aquatic ecosystems, creating environmental and economic consequences. Where the original plan focused largely on responding to specific invasive species, the draft update announced last week places stronger emphasis on blocking pathways of aquatic invasive species introduction and spread. Strategies for the early detection of AIS and rapid response actions to manage them are also included in the draft plan. A public meeting is scheduled April 12 at the Best Western Plus in Lansing, from 12:45 to 4:45 p.m. This meeting will provide more background on the plan and give interested parties the opportunity to provide feedback and comments. The meeting is open to the public and intended for anyone with a vested interest or concern for aquatic invasive species issues in Michigan. While there is no fee to attend the public meeting, advance registration is requested. The draft plan is available for review at www.michigan.gov\deqaquaticinvasives. The website also offers additional meeting details and instructions for submitting comments, which are accepted through May 1. struct M-89 in Plainwell is scheduled for Thursday, March 29, from 5 to 7 p.m. Michigan Department of Transportation representatives will meet with business owners, residents and others at the Plainwell Area Community Center, 798 E. Bridge St. Starting in April, MDOT will rebuild M-89 between 12th Street and Hicks Avenue, including the bridge over the Kalamazoo River mill race. The two-year, $11 million project is scheduled to be completed in August 2013. A detour will be required. MDOT representatives will be available to discuss the project and its potential impacts. German company to invest $5 million in new Kalamazoo facility Gov. Rick Snyder Friday announced that Hark Orchids LP, an orchid propagation company headquartered in Lippstadt, Germany, will invest approximately $5 million to establish its first facility outside of Germany in Kalamazoo. “Hark’s choice of Michigan for its first U.S. facility tells others across the globe that Michigan holds great opportunities for their business expansion,” Snyder said. “This announcement comes as we wrap up a very busy, productive week with companies in Italy and Germany. Our message that Michigan is more business-friendly than ever is showing real results that will mean new jobs for people across our state.” Founded in 1904, Hark Orchids is a familyowned company offering hybridization, cultivation and propagation of orchids. Hark plans to establish a 30,000 square-foot lab and climatic chambers facility, investing approximately $5 million. The investment will create up to 80 jobs in the next three to five years. q q YES NO During a traffic stop of a commercial vehicle that bypassed the New Buffalo Weigh Station on eastbound I-94 March 21, Michigan State Police motor carrier officers discovered adulterated food. A search of the vehicle’s cargo area revealed approximately 175 pounds of unrefrigerated food, including deli meat, beef and various partially thawed frozen raw foods. Temperatures inside the cargo area were between 48 and 70 degrees, well above the temperature considered safe for consumption. The outside temperature at the time of the stop was 83 degrees. A food inspector from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development was contacted and assisted with the inspection of the vehicle and driver. The entire load was confiscated and destroyed by MDARD, and the driver was cited for bypassing the weigh station, having defective equipment and failing to pay Unified Carrier Registration fees. Gov. Rick Snyder Tuesday signed legislation to ensure funding for state retiree benefits. Senate Bill 683, sponsored by State Sen. Roger Kahn, includes fiscal year 2012 supplemental appropriations to ensure other postemployment benefits for retirees from several state departments. The $306.3 million total includes health, dental and visual benefits as well as life insurance coverage. The bill now is Public Act 64. Another bill sponsored by State Sen. John Proos, protects Michigan farmers from substantial crop damage by allowing more shooters for each out-of-season deer kill permit. Up to 15 shooters will be allowed on one permit. The bill now is Public Act. 65. Soo Locks open early With about 60 spectators watching from the observation deck, the downbound Mesabi Miner, a 1,004-foot freighter loaded with 57,152 tons of coal, was the first ship to enter Sault St. Marie’s Poe Lock at 12:18 p.m. said Chris Albrough, lockmaster. The Miner was followed by the 768-foot John G. Munson. The Soo Locks opened 12 hours earlier than originally scheduled this year, at the request of the shipping industry because minimal ice conditions in the Great Lakes due to a mild winter enabled vessels to arrive at the Soo well ahead of schedule. The locks were closed Jan. 19 to undergo repairs and maintenance during the winter shutdown. “Maintaining and operating the Soo Locks is one of the most important responsibilities of the Detroit District,” said Lt. Col. Michael Derosier, district engineer with the Army Corps of Engineers. “The locks are the linchpin of the Great Lakes navigation system, integral in fostering commerce that benefits our nation.” The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Detroit District, maintains a navigation system that includes 94 harbors and the Great Lakes Connecting Channels that join lakes Superior, Michigan, Huron and Erie. The Hastings Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Vice President Use the BANNER CLASSIFIEDS to sell, rent, buy, hire, find work, etc. Call... 269-945-9554 State Police identify truck carrying ‘adulterated’ food Snyder signs bills to MDOT to discuss fund state retiree M-89 reconstruction benefits, increase in Plainwell An open house to discuss plans to recon- deer kills Frederic Jacobs For this week: Area schools are struggling with a state mandate to offer all-day, every-day kindergarten. Should kindergartners be on a full-day schedule five days a week? The Michigan Economic Development Corp. and Southwest Michigan First supported the project with cash grants totaling $750,000. “Southwest Michigan welcomes Hark to a new stage in the region’s rich history as the Bedding Plant Capital of the World. While the industry relied on the region’s microclimates and rich soil centuries ago, today its collaborative infrastructure and bioscientific knowledge are helping it to blossom as shown by the company’s decision to locate here,” said Ron Kitchens, CEO of Southwest Michigan First. Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Helen Mudry • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 �Page 6 — Thursday, March 29, 2012 — The Hastings Banner County board hears update on parks and recreation by Doug VanderLaan Editor The continued development of an impressive recreational trail system plan highlighted a special Monday meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners which, perhaps due to moving its regular meeting up one day to accommodate a Tuesday professional Worship Together… 77566616 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. ORANGEVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH 6921 Marsh Rd., 2 miles south of Gun Lake, Plainwell. Phone 269664-4377. OrangevilleBaptist. org. Pastors Dan Bowman and Adam Parmenter. Sundays - 9:45--10:45 a.m. “Dealing With Your Past” March through May. March 25 - 6 p.m. “Messiah in the Passover’ Seder Meal. March 31 - 7 p.m. Orangeville Cafe. April 8 - 7:30 & 11 a.m. Easter Celebration. April 22-27 - Evangelist Will Rice. Children, teen and adult Sunday School classes; 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Worship; 5:30 p.m. Junior and Senior High Word of Life Clubs. Tuesday - 9 a.m. Men’s Prayer and Bible Study. Wednesday - 6:30 p.m. Pre-school through 6th grade Word of Life Gophers & Olympians. Prayer & Bible Study - 7 p.m. 6 p.m. Teen Word of Life. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. HASTINGS SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH 904 Terry Lane, Hastings (or on the corner of Starr School Road and Terry Lane.) Phone: (269) 9452170. Pastor Michael Wise. Sabbath www.hastingssda.com (Saturday) School 9:30 a.m.; worship service 10:50 a.m. Mid-week meetings informal study and prayer service, Wednesdays 7 p.m. Youth ministry clubs, Adventurers for preschool to 4th grade students and Pathfinders for 5th grade students through high school, meet on the first and third Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. and first and third Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. respectively. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. CHURCH OF THE LIVING GOD A full gospel church. 1240 W. State Rd., Hastings. Pastor Doug Davis. 269-948-9740. Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study 6 p.m. Sunday School and Youth Group for all ages. Come and worship the Lord with us! . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Phone 269-721-8077. Minister Ryan Wieland 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Praise Worship Service; Noon alternate weekends Youth Group Tuesday. Covenant Prayer Group, Wednes-day 6:30 p.m., Choir Practice. Thursday 7 p.m. Praise Band Practice. 2nd and 4th Thursdays at 7 p.m. Christ’s Quilters. Friday 6:30 p.m., CPRChrist’s Plan for Recovery (meal served). For more information small groups, special evnts or if you have a prayer requst, call the church office and see postings on WEB site: www.countrychapel.umc.org. SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nash-ville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 or -517-852-1806. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS REFORMED CHURCH “A Historic Reformed Community.” Sunday morning services begin at 10 a.m. Meeting at the Barry County Commission on Aging building, 320 W. Woodlawn Ave., Hastings. Pastor: Peter Adams. 616-690-8609 padams@juno.com. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 9:15 Contemporary Worship, 10:30 a.m. Refreshments, 11 a.m. Traditional Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Pastor of Senior Adults and Visitation, Don Brail. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. for children, youths and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Senior High Youth Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Mid-Week: 6:30-7:45 p.m. Pioneer Clubs, age 4th to 5th grade, and Junior High Youth Group, 6th-8th grade. Thursday: 10 a.m. Senior Adult Discussion and 11:30 a.m., lunch at Wendy’s. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Sunday, April 1 - Worship at 8 & 10:45 a.m. Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. Holy Communion Every Sunday! April 1 - Passion of our Lord 8:00 a.m. & 10:45 a.m.; Sunday School 9:30 a.m.; Men’s AA 7 p.m. April 2 - Women of Faith at 7 p.m. April 3 - Brothers of Grace at 7 p.m. April 4 - Wordwatchers Bible Study at 10 a.m. April 5 - Maundy Thursday Foot Washing Service at 7 p.m. April 6 - Good Friday Services at 7 p.m. April 8 - Easter Services at 6:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. Breakfast to follow after 6:30 service. 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 945-2645, fax 269-945-2698. Pastor Amy Luckey website - http://www. discovergrace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 10 a.m. Sunday School for All Ages; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service; 6 p.m. NO Youth Group. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.first churchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot.com. Thursday - 9 a.m. Men’s Bible Study; 11:30 Women’s Brown Bag Bible Study; 6:30 p.m. Choir Rehearsal. Friday 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday - 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday - 4 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 5 p.m. Pickleball. Fiberglass Products 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 said, would come for the parks and recreation board’s fund balance, a special 2012 project fund and the Thornapple Trail Association. Wheeler also provided an update on final completion activities for the McKeown Bridge Park. A first reimbursement payment of $155,529 has been received from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, with subsequent reimbursements expected for up to $215,300 for the total project. Wheeler told commissioners he expects, after final reimbursements and accounting, that the project will be completed under its projected budget. A rededication — since the space was already a park — took place last June with entertainment, a picnic and activities for children. Also part of Wheeler’s report was an update on the Village of Middleville Skateboard Park which was approved and completed in 2009 and fully funded in 2011. At $14,988 in cost, this project also came in under budget, though Wheeler said Monday that the equipment being used within the park is basic equipment that may someday be requested for replacement. In terms of future development, Wheeler mentioned two areas of focus: children’s playground and motor trails. “Bicyclers and hikers bring a lot of money into the area,” Wheeler pointed out, “and motorsports enthusiasts are big spenders. I’d like to see the development of motor trails.” Wheeler also mentioned that the parks and recreation board has not fully addressed the needs of children, mentioning that Barry County-owned parks have no playground areas for children. Commission Chair Craig Stolsonburg reminded Wheeler that the county recently has provided children’s play equipment two township parks Geiger questioned Wheeler about the presence of parks and recreation options on the county’s website, stating specifically that Barry County parks provide a wide variety of settings for movie makers. “The big issue (with movie site locations) is there is no place to put people up — we have no hotel,” replied Wheeler. “I know that as a government, we can’t get involved with something like that, but some things needs to be addressed in that area.” In other business, the commission: • Took receipt of a letter from Linda Ribble, Orangeville Township trustee, thanking Planning and Zoning Director Jim McManus for his response to a permit a mobile home placement request from Ribble following a recent garage and house fire. • Approved financial transfer and disbursements of $40,533 in claims. The board of commissioners meets next on Tuesday, April 3, for a committee of the whole meeting in its meeting chambers at the county courthouse beginning at 9 a.m. Nashville resident questions council’s use of funds Fay L. (Hartman) Voigt HASTINGS, MI - Fay L. (Hartman) Voigt, died at her home in Hastings, Monday, March 26, 2012. Fay was born September 2, 1935 in Lansing, the daughter of Ray and Charlatine Hartman. She graduated from Sexton High School and worked as a nurse's aide in St. Lawrence Hospital before meeting and marrying her husband of 55 years, William C. (Bill) Voigt December 7, 1956. Fay was a homemaker her entire life with the exception of working at Hayes, GreenBeech Hospital in Charlotte, for a few years in the late 1970s. Fay and Bill started their family of five children in East Lansing, before moving the family to Charlotte, in 1971. They then moved from Charlotte and split their time between homes on Thornapple Lake in Barry County and Port Richey, FL. The couple sold those two homes in the early 1990s and moved into a home in Hastings. Fay was preceded in death by her parents and two of her brothers, Gerry and Bob Hartman. She is survived by her husband Bill; five children, William A. (Jean), Kurt (Darlene), Kevin (Tammy) all of Charlotte, Theresa (Tom) Moody, Montreal, Canada and Michelle (Bo) Walker, Statesville, NC. Fay was the very proud grandmother of 21 and great grandmother of six. She is also survived by her brother and sister-in-law Dick and Patricia Hartman. Fay loved fishing, playing board games, card games and poker with her children, grandchildren and friends. She also enjoyed many ocean cruises with her husband Bill over the years. Her primary love, however, was quilting. She won numerous awards at Florida shows. Graveside services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, March 29, 2012 at Bethany Cemetery in Morrice, with Father John Bosco officiating. Memorial donations may be made to the Pennock Hospital Hospice Program in Hastings. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Daniels Funeral Home of Nashville. Please visit our website at www.danielsfuneralhome.net for further details. by Shari Carney Staff Writer While numerous appointments were made at the March 22 meeting of the Nashville Village Council, the most heated part of the meeting occurred when a resident responded to statements made previously by council members and challenged the council to allocate more money for improvements in the village. Former Nashville Village President Gary White referred to statements made at the Feb. 9 meeting, that village employees had not received raises in five years. He said raises had been given to village employees in 2008, referencing a letter given to the Maple Valley News March 8 by Village Clerk Cathy Lentz. “So which is it — five years or four years?” asked White. Trustee Rod Scramlin responded, “Do you believe everything you read in the paper?” “Your clerk said it,” responded White. He reiterated concerns about cost of living increases for village employees, calling them raises. Village President Frank Dunham responded, “Gary, cost of living allowances are not raises. You know that.” “I count them as raises,” said White. Current salaries for village employees include $689.20 per week for the clerk and $989.42 per week for the department of public works supervisor. They were among village employees for whom raises were approved by the council Feb. 9. White questioned information on the village website regarding retirement percentages; wage comparisons to state and county levels; and a pie-chart graph with distribution of general fund balances, showing zero percent allocated for community and economic development and 25 percent for sewer and sanitation. “Why? Why are you saving money for sewer and water? Why aren’t we raising money to clean this place up?” asked White. “Do you research anything? Do you care?” He also rebuked the council regarding black mold at the community building, saying this was due to neglect by the village. “You folks didn’t take care of it,” he said. Council members listened to White before moving on to official business. Jerry Schray will continue as chief of police, after a unanimous vote by the village council to reappoint him. Trustee Johnny Hartwell was absent. The chief of police is an appointed position, reviewed annually. Schray is paid $20.78 per hour and compensated for overtime after 40 hours per week. Dunham recommended, and the board approved, the appointment of Orvin Moore to the open zoning administrator position. Five candidates were initially under consideration for the open zoning administrator position and one later withdrew. Ron Ohler was the sole applicant for one of three open spots on the zoning board and three on the planning commission. A short discussion ensued in which Dunham referenced Ohler (a former member of the zoning board) exhibiting “an outburst where profanity was used,” but added, “I think he’s aware of his error.” Scramlin asked if Ohler’s was the only letter received. Dunham said it was, adding “we do need members on both.” He recommended Ohler be placed on the zoning board and as an alternate on the planning commission. Council approved the appointment, with Trustee Mike Kenyon the sole dissenting vote. Committee appointments were presented by Dunham and approved by council. The council also approved Kenyon as president protem and Richard Dean as a volunteer for mowing at the cemetery with the DPW. John Nash, representing Helping Hands Ministry, clarified a request at the March 8 council meeting, for a bikeathon coming through Nashville. The group has requested permission from the village to camp for the night Monday, July 2. Nash will take his request to Maple Valley Schools to see if the estimated 100 bikers could use the facility and grounds for the night. At the end of the meeting, Kenyon mentioned the death of long-time Nashville resident Art Stewart who had battled Lou Gehrig’s disease. COUNTRY CHAPEL UMC WILL BE HOSTING THEIR ANNUAL Easter Egg Hunt SATURDAY, MARCH 31ST STARTING AT 10:00AM This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Lauer Family Funeral Homes development conference in Lansing, just barely reached quorum attendance for an official meeting. Of eight commissioners, only a required five were present to begin Monday’s meeting. When Vice Chair Ben Geiger arrived shortly after the meeting began, only commissioners Don Nevins and Joe Lyons were absent. Though their agenda was short and slim, commissioners were presented an encouraging annual report by the Parks and Recreation Board Chair Warren Wheeler, who highlighted trail system development, related activities and future objectives. One section of the Paul Henry Thornapple Trail involving the needed replacement of the Quaker Brook pedestrian bridge just west of M-66 in Nashville, promises to stir considerable interest involving young people. “The trades department and students at Maple Valley High School will build a new bridge in their shop,” Wheeler told commissioners. “It will be placed on site by adult volunteers and members of our parks and recreation board. All we will be paying is for the material cost.” Several design options and costs were considered before the parks and recreation board opted to partner with the school on construction of a pre-manufactured bridge similar in design to a bridge built by the school over the Thornapple River in Eaton County, between Nashville and Vermontville, last year. The approximate $5,000 cost, Wheeler 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 Keep your friends and relatives INFORMED! Send them There will be prizes for the children with age appropriate games & activities. In case of inclement weather, all activities will take place indoors. Come join the fun! The BANNER Country Chapel UMC To subscribe, call us at... 269-945-9554 9275 South M-37, Dowling MI 269-721-8077 www.countrychapelumc.org 77566756 �Social News The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 29, 2012 — Page 7 Haney tapped as administrator SOCIAL at Thornapple Manor SECURITY COLUMN Women and Social Security Don Haney Haney will begin his new role as administrator April 27. BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY by Gerald Stein NORTH N: A Q 8 M: A 9 8 7 3 L: Q 10 5 K: K 6 WEST EAST N: 10 7 5 2 M: Q 6 2 L: J 9 8 3 K: 8 2 N: J 4 3 M: K J 10 5 L: K 6 K: Q 5 4 3 SOUTH: N: K 9 6 M: 4 L:A 7 4 2 K: A J 10 9 7 West North East South by Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist March is Women’s History Month, a time to focus not just on the past, but on the challenges women continue to face in the 21st century. Social Security plays a vital role in the lives of women. With longer life expectancies than men, women tend to live more years in retirement and have a greater chance of exhausting other sources of income. With the national average life expectancy for women in the United States rising, many women will have decades to enjoy retirement. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, a girl born today can expect to live more than 80 years. As a result, experts generally agree that if women want to ensure that their retirement years are comfortable, they need to plan early and wisely. The best place to begin is by knowing what you can expect to receive from Social Security, and how much more you are likely to need. You can start with a visit to Social Security’s Retirement Estimator, www.socialsecurity.gov/estimator. There, in just a few minutes, you can get a personalized, instant estimate of your retirement benefits. You should also visit Social Security’s financial planning website at www.socialsecurity.gov/planners. It provides detailed information about how marriage, widowhood, divorce, self-employment, government service, and other life or career events can affect your Social Security. If you want more information about the role of Social Security in women’s lives today, Social Security also has a booklet called “Social Security: What Every Woman Should Know.” Find it online at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10127.html. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. Honoring 65 years of marriage Congratulations to Bob and Frances Smitherman, married March 23, 1947 for 65 years of matrimony. Elizabeth, Robbie and Mike along with their five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren would like to congratulate them on this milestone. Anyone wishing to send their well wishes to Bob and Frances may do so by mailing them to 150 Fair Lake, Delton, MI 49046. Marriage Licenses Jon Edward Benson, Iron Ridge, WI and Kim Ann Hart, Hickory Corners. Michael J. Fields, Hastings and Victoria Lee Guffey, Hastings. Lee Gaylord Gould, Nashville and Keri Lynn Ross, Gowen. Elwood Joseph Grassi, Dowling and Margaret Elizabeth Pollack, Dowling. Houston Raymond Malone III, Hastings and Meagan Rae Chaffee. Keith B. McCracken, Freeport and Rachel Kathleen Clark, Freeport. Phillip Robinson III, Shelbyville and Marcy Marie Ruhl, Shelbyville. Carmelia “Tea” Hutt (1919 ~ 1964) Our mother had 1000 instructive sayings we, her daughters, have tried to follow. Mother always said to say thank you, so thank you mom for being terrific. Happy Birthday, we miss you every day. ~Sarah and Louise 3NT All Pass Lead: 2N In today’s bridge hand, two aspects of bridge play are evident: the bidding is accurate, and the play of the hand is effective. Let’s look first at the bidding by the North-South team. Without any competition from the East-West team, they sailed to a solid 3NT game. How did they do it? South as Dealer opened with a convenient minor diamond suit, planning ahead to bid the clubs at the next bid if necessary. North, her partner, knew from the opening bid that South had at least three diamonds and an opening bid of at least 12-13 points. With that knowledge in hand, North as the responder and the Captain of the hand knows the most about the partnership points. North knows that with his 15 high card points and one for the length in hearts that the North-South partnership belongs at least in game. North confidently bid his major suit of hearts, hoping for a fit in the major suits. South bypasses the spade suit, denying four cards in spades, and retreats to 1NT, keeping the auction at a low level and informing her partner that she has only a bare opening bid of 12-14 points. North takes that new piece of information, and as Captain of the hand, bids the game-reaching contract of 3NT. The bridge adage of “The one who knows, goes!” is perfectly exemplified in North’s final bid. North has counted the points between the two hands, and he knows that there are at least 26 points in their combined hands, enough for a game try in no trump or the major suits of hearts and spades. The final contract is 3NT played by South. Now it is time for South to take the bid contract and make use of another bridge adage: “Take your tricks and run!” South thanks her partner first and then prepares her plan. She knows that in no trump contracts that she needs high card points, and she counts both hands, reaching a total of 27 high card points. How many tricks does she have in hand, and how many does she have to work to set up? South counts seven tricks right off the top: NA, NK, NQ; MA, LA; KA, KK. Two more tricks will have to come from somewhere. Hearts look particularly dangerous, and she will want to avoid hearts at all costs. With only one stopper in that suit, the East-West team would have a field day with hearts. The diamonds don’t look too much better, and so the only good suit to work on is clubs. Her plan is as follows: Win the first trick in spades in hand. Lead the small club to the dummy KK, and a small club back, planning to set up the remaining clubs in her hand. With her plan made, South is ready to play the hand as bid. She takes the spade lead with the NK, leads to the KK, and a small club back to the KJ which wins. It is just a matter of time, with patience and continued leading of the clubs until the KQ is won by the East-West team. The good spades and the heart ace are available for finishing up the play of the hand, and NorthSouth finish the hand with nine tricks, enough to make the 3NT contract. With two components in each bridge hand, it is important to remember that in the bidding portion, the responder as the Captain of the team is the one who usually makes the decision on how high to put the contract. “The one who knows, goes!” to the right contract is a good bridge adage to remember. Likewise, in the play of the hand, a good plan is important before even one trick has been played. Take the time to make the plan, and, if possible, take your tricks and run. Sometimes that is the best and only way that you can make your bid. Bridge Question for this week: What do these bridge adages mean: “Get the kiddies off the street”? “Eight ever, nine never”? “Trump poor” “Aces and spaces”? Bridge Question answer from last week: James Bond and the villain Drax were the two bridge opponents in the James Bond movie “Moonraker.” (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) Latest updates from the KCC Institute for Learning in Retirement (ILR) Office: -- Bridge Class #2, The Play of the Hand, for intermediate and for advanced beginner players, will be offered in Battle Creek for nine weeks beginning April 23 -- A nine-week beginning bridge class, "Bidding in the 21st Century," will be offered at the KCC Fehsenfeld Center on Wednesday mornings from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. beginning April 25. Beginners and intermediate bridge players are welcome. Call the ILR office at 269-948-9500 Extension 2804 for more information on both classes. Keep your friends and relatives INFORMED! Send them The BANNER To subscribe, call us at... 269-945-9554 FLOWERING TREES & SHRUBS ARE NOW IN! Rototilling Get yours while it’s still in full bloom. Bobcat Work Little Luggers Hauling Mulch, Stone, Soil Available “LET US HELP BEAUTIFY YOUR YARD” WE DELIVER Will haul in black dirt and wood chips 06776896 Pass 1NT 07596094 Pass 5715 South M-66, Nashville • 517-852-1864 77566724 269-908-0567 Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8:30 - 6:00; Sat. 8:30 - 5:00 EwingLandscaping@yahoo.com 269-804-6027 07595337 DELTON KELLOGG SCHOOLS POSITIONS AVAILABLE SUBSTITUTE BUS DRIVER(S): School-year position. Must be able to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License with B-P, S, must pass State Skill Test and State Written Test, must have less than 7 points on driving record and able to pass physical, including drug test. ® Applications accepted at the Superintendent’s Office at 327 N. Grove St., Delton, MI between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., or email: chersha@dkschools.org 77566683 The 77566293 1M Call 945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads In Loving Memory of 1L Pass Morgan-Ogden Dan and Brenda Morgan along with Toad and Barb Ogden (all from Middleville) are excited to announce the upcoming wedding ceremony of their children, Amanda D. Ogden (Morgan) to SSgt. Justin G. Ogden. Both are graduates of Thornapple Kellogg High School. Amanda is employed as a medical assistant at Rose Radiology while Justin is proudly serving his country in the Air Force. They currently live in Tampa, Fla. A beautiful outdoor ceremony will take place on September 1, 2012 at Spring Grove Park in Grandville. 77564841 The Barry County Department of Human Services Board has announced the appointment of Don Haney as administrator of Thornapple Manor, replacing Jim DeYoung who is retiring after 17 years of service at the county-owned facility, the past 11 as administrator. Haney has more than 25 years of health care experience and more than 10 years of management experience in the long-term care industry. He was the chief financial officer of Pilgrim Manor, a continuing-care retirement community in Grand Rapids, before joining Thornapple Manor in March of 2006 as controller. Haney has served on the Thornapple Kellogg Board of Education for more than 12 years. He is a member of the Hastings Rotary Club and the Barry County Economic Development Alliance Board. He and his wife, Sharon, live in Middleville and have three children; two are graduates of Thornapple Kellogg who currently attend college and one is a freshman at Thornapple Kellogg High School. “I am honored and excited to accept this position,” said Haney. “I will work hard to ensure we maintain our focus of quality care for our residents while being fiscally responsive within our community.” �Page 8 — Thursday, March 29, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of by Elaine Garlock This is a quiet weekend coming just before the Easter/Lent weekend with many activities planned in local churches. An advance notice comes from the Womens’ Fellowship of First Congregational Church which will meet Wednesday, April 11, at 1 p.m. at the church dining room for a program by Helen Milbourne of Grand Ledge, who will speak on her trip to China. Palm Sunday will be observed at Central United Methodist Church April 1 at the 10:30 a.m. worship hour and will include distribution of palms. Thursday, April 5, at 6:30 p.m., there will be a Maundy Thursday service. Friday, the church will host the community Good Friday Service at 1 p.m. with several local pastors taking part. Easter services will be at 10:30 a.m. Sunday, April 8. The chancel choir will be singing on both Friday and Sunday. The show “Here Comes the Bride” at the depot complex was well attended last weekend. Not only were there wedding garments galore, but also many photo albums, cake toppers, flowergirl dresses, ring pillows, a 1918 grooms’ swallowtail coat and a 1948 tailored made suit and necktie. The hostesses Saturday were dressed as mothers-of-thebride and they served wedding cake to all visitors. Many of the dresses were made by the brides themselves. One had tatted the decorative touch. Some dresses were from the 1800s. Newer gowns were enhanced by long trains. This was a first-time venture for the local historical society. The monthly winter soup supper at First Congregational Church had another enjoyable evening with a variety of soups and desserts. This time there was a short devotional time following the meal, led by one of the lay members. The Tri-River Museum group met March 20 at the Ada Averill Museum, with nearly 30 present. The Sunfield Welch Museum was welcomed into membership by unanimous approval. Dana Troub and Jan Sedore made reports on the immediate past and future events which included a maple syrup event in late March. Their theory is that “if you feed the people, they will come.” Since they have their own building, the former Welch Hardware store, they have had potluck meals each time, which draw in the crowds. The last one featured pancakes and maple syrup from the Benedict sugar bush with accompanied potluck food. The brochures for Spring into the Past are distributed to the 20-plus museums for year round use. A block of Second Street adjacent to Koops Funeral Chapel was closed to all traffic Tuesday forenoon for the large attendance at the Roseanna Eldridge funeral. Family and guests were hosted for lunch at fellowship hall of Central United Methodist Church where the grandparents of the bereaved husband had been members. Newborn Babies Bryson Douglas, born at Pennock Hospital on March 13, 2012 at 5:44 p.m. to Holly and Doug Shepard of Middleville. Weighing 8 lbs. 11 ozs. and 22 1/2 inches long. ***** Carter James, born at Pennock Hospital on March 12, 2012 at 6:41 p.m. to Joshua and Allison Fenlong of Lake Odessa. Weighing 9 lbs. 1 oz. and 21 inches long. ***** Caleb Matthew, born at Pennock Hospital on March 13, 2012 at 12:14 a.m. to Emilee and Jake McDiarmid of Sunfield. Weighing 8 lbs. 8 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Steele Kristian, born at Pennock Hospital on March 18, 2012 at 1:08 p.m. to Megan and Joe Proctor of Ionia. Weighing 7 lbs. 9 ozs. and 20 1/2 inches long. ***** Nicholas Michael, born at Pennock Hospital on March 19, 2012 at 8:02 a.m. to Melinda Dawson and Cory Robinson of Battle Creek. Weighing 8 lbs. 4.5 ozs. and 20.5 inches long. ***** Liam Edward, born at Pennock Hospital on March 17, 2012 to Tiffany O’Connor and Curtiss Brown of Mulliken. Weighing 7 lbs. 8 ozs. ***** Adriana Elizabeth, born at Pennock Hospital on March 15, 2012 at 11:22 to Cassie Wessner of Nashville. Weighing 7 lbs. 15 ozs. and 21 1/2 inches long. ***** Reese Elliana, born at Pennock Hospital on March 16, 2012 at 9:55 a.m. to Andrew and Sarah Boness of Hastings. Weighing 6 lbs. 13.6 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Karter Reese, born at Pennock Hospital on March 16, 2012 at 5:10 a.m. to Michael and Rachelle Hill of Nashville. Weighing 7 lbs. 10 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Keep your friends and relatives INFORMED! Send them The BANNER To subscribe, call us at... 269-945-9554 — NOTICE — To members of Hastings Mutual Insurance Company, Hastings, Michigan: Notice is hereby given that the Annual Meeting of Hastings Mutual Insurance Company will be held at the Home Office, 404 East Woodlawn Avenue, Hastings, Michigan, on Wednesday, April 11, 2012, beginning at 9:00 a.m. Michael W. Puerner, Secretary 77566489 EDWARD JONES Are you prepared for long-term care costs? Like everyone else, you hope to remain physically and financially independent your entire life. And you may well achieve this goal. Nonetheless, the future is not ours to see, so you’ll want to prepare yourself for as many contingencies as possible — one of which is the high cost of long-term care. As you may know, long-term care primarily refers to nursing home expenses, but it also includes services provided in your own home. In either case, though, it could be expensive. The national average rate for a private room in a nursing home was more than $87,000 per year in 2011, according to the 2011 MetLife Market Survey of Long-Term Care Costs. The same survey found that the average privatepay hourly rates for home health aides and homemaker companion services were $21 and $19, respectively. With luck, of course, you won’t need to worry about these types of expenses. But consider this: People who reach age 65 have a 40% chance of entering a nursing home, according to a study by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. And about 10% of those who enter a nursing home will stay there five or more years. Clearly, if you take no steps to prepare yourself for the potentially devastating costs of an extended nursing home stay, you could be jeopardizing the assets you’ve worked so hard to accumulate. Even worse, if you run through your money, you might end up creating a financial and emotional burden for your grown children. Unfortunately, many people assume that a federal or state government program will help them pay for their long-term care expenses. However, Medicare pays only a small portion of nursing home costs, and to be eligible for Medicaid, you would likely have to divest yourself of most of your financial assets. Consequently, you’ll probably need to find another way to pay for long-term care. Fortunately, there are investment or protection vehicles designed specifically to help you meet long-term care expenses. Your financial advisor can help you pick the option that’s most appropriate for your individual situation. Having the ability to pay for long-term care is obviously important. But other issues may also enter the picture. For example, if you need to enter a nursing home, you may be suffering from a physical or mental disability that might prevent you from handling your own affairs. This impairment could prove disastrous to your finances — which is why you can’t afford to take that type of chance. Instead, consult with your legal advisor to determine if you can benefit from a durable power of attorney — a document that lets you delegate your financial decisions to a relative, close friend or anyone else you might choose. None of us like to think about spending time in a nursing home or needing round-theclock care in our own homes. However, life is unpredictable. But even if you can’t avoid the need for long-term care, you can take steps to help reduce the financial strain it can cause you and your family. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 30.61 +.48 AT&T 31.64 -.15 BP PLC 44.90 -1.32 CMS Energy Corp 21.98 +.19 Coca-Cola Co 71.87 +1.28 Eaton 50.12 +.17 Family Dollar Stores 58.24 +1.29 Fifth Third Bancorp 14.00 -.50 Flowserve CP 116.75 +1.56 Ford Motor Co. 12.32 -.22 General Mills 39.11 +.35 General Motors 25.35 +.24 Intel Corp. 28.19 +.44 Kellogg Co. 53.11 +.43 McDonald’s Corp 97.34 -.31 Pfizer Inc. 22.50 +.70 Ralcorp 73.45 +1.16 Sears Holding 73.50 -6.50 Spartan Motors 5.51 +.04 Spartan Stores 18.39 +.44 Stryker 55.34 +.52 TCF Financial 12.21 -.20 Walmart Stores 61.09 +.49 Gold $1,680.78 +31.70 Silver $32.58 +.51 Dow Jones Average 13,198 +28 Volume on NYSE 677M +21M SPLASH PAD, continued from page 1 made up of a front area with a sculpture planter to display “Radiolaria II,” a middle area for the splash pad features and water fountains or jets, a rear section for a small dry play area, and shade area with tables, public restrooms and pump house. The site measures 35 by 128 feet and will be raised by four feet, with a retaining wall in the rear, running from grade at West State Street, down North Church Street to the end of the lot, adjacent to Parking Lot 5. “We have raised $30,000 from the DDA, and upwards of $100,000 to $150,000 pledged between two potential private donors,” said Hart, who added the DDA is also considering application for state grant funds to supplement construction costs. “The donations and pledges materialized from private conversations I have been having with a few individuals and organizations about some great projects that we have completed and some that are in the planning process. We will secure all necessary funding in the next couple of months, once the final concept drawings and preliminary estimates are complete. We are more than willing to accept any and all contributions that will assist in making this a great and well executed downtown attraction. We will design and build the project to the scale and type that we can afford. There will be opportunity to build it in phases if we have to.” Hart said the location is ideal because it is close to the intersection of Broadway and State streets at the entry to the downtown, is NOTICE The minutes of the meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners held March 27, 2012, are available in the County Clerk’s Office at 220 W. State St., Hastings, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or www.barrycounty.org. 77566625 City of Hastings Position Available: Police Officer City of Hastings Position Available: School Crossing Guard This full-time position performs police patrol to enforce all applicable laws, produces required reports and testifies in Court as required. Must be MCOLES certified as a police officer in the State of Michigan. Good interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing are also required. Experience as a police officer is not required but is preferred. Wages and benefits are governed by the collective bargaining agreement; current minimum starting wage is $14.05 per hour. Complete job description and application form are available on request from Hastings Police Department, 201 E. State St., Hastings, Michigan 49058, 269.945.5744. To begin application process submit resume by April 6, 2012. Jerry Sarver Chief of Police 77566688 This part-time position assists in traffic control at assigned intersections to aid school children walking to and from school. A regularly assigned position as well as a substitute position are available. Ability to relate to children and the general public and the ability and willingness to follow direction are required. Will be employed by the Hastings Area School System but supervised by the Hastings City Police Department. Current minimum starting wage is $7.40 per hour with attendance bonus annually. Complete job description and application form are available on request from Hastings Police Department, 201 E. State St., Hastings, Michigan 49058, 269.945.5744. Position is open until filled. Jerry Sarver Chief of Police 77566690 across from the courthouse square, which is a hub of outdoor activity, and adjacent to the movie theater and municipal parking lots. “The downtown becomes more vibrant and healthy each month,” he said. “We have very few vacancies, new apartments are being built out on the second stories and new businesses are being opened and properties are trading. Many new and successful events have been developed that are supporting our economic and community development strategies. These are real signs of progress,” said Hart. “Barry County had the lowest unemployment in Southwest Michigan. Hastings get positive feedback from visitors and has been featured in a number of great articles recently as a place to be. I am so proud of what the community, including the county, has accomplished in a down economy. I believe it is due to the ‘can-do spirit’ of the citizens, businesses and property owners.” In other business, the council: • Authorized Mayor Bob May and City Clerk Tom Emery to sign a real estate donation agreement with Commercial Bank for the parking lot on the north side of West Apple Street just west of Market Street. In his communication to the council, Hastings City Manager Jeff Mansfield said Commercial Bank had acquired the lot as part of its acquisition of the assets of MainStreet Savings Bank but had no need for the property. Mansfield said the lot is located near a commercial area and is near the next phase of the bike and pedestrian trail along the Thornapple River. • Approved a request from Rob Deming of the Barry County March of Dimes Committee to hold its annual March for Babies 5K walk Saturday, May 5, and to place route marker signs in the public right of -way along State Street from approximately 7:30 a.m. to noon that day. • Approved a request from Karen Jousma from Family Support Center of Barry County to place Pinwheels for Prevention in the flower boxes along North Broadway during April, which is Child Abuse prevention Month. • Approved a request from Tom Wilt, director of the Barry County YMCA, to hold a healthy family fun day from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, April 28, using the city bike paths and parks for a variety of organized family activities. • Tabled a resolution to set fees for handicap ramp permits and directed staff to determine what Professional Code Inspectors charges for the same permits. • Awarded a bid to DVT Electric Inc. for replacement and installation of a transformer/interrupter switch for the wastewater treatment plant in the amount of $80,750 for the base bid and $18,970 for conductors for a total amount not to exceed $99,720 as recommended by director of public services Tim Girrbach. PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PARTIES. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a Public Hearing will be held by the Prairieville Township Planning Commission on April 18, 2012 at 7:00 P.M. at the Prairieville Township Hall, 10115 S. Norris Road, within the Township. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the item(s) to be considered at this Public Hearing include, in brief, the following: 1. A request by Jollie and Ann Allen for Special Land Use Permit and Site Plan Review for the proposed construction of an accessory building within the required 25 ft side setback. The subject property is located at 15710 Rich Lane, Hickory Corners, MI 49060 and is within the “R-1” Residence District. 2. Such other and further matters as may properly come before the Planning & Zoning Commission for this meeting. All interested persons are invited to be present or submit written comments on this matter(s) to the below Township office address. Prairieville Township will provide necessary auxiliary aids and services such as signers for the hearing impaired and audiotapes of printed materials being considered at the hearing upon five (5) days notice to the Prairieville Township Clerk. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Prairieville Township Clerk at the address or telephone number set forth below. Jim Stoneburner, Township Supervisor Prairieville Township Hall 10115 S. Norris Rd Delton, MI 49046 (269) 623-2664 77566707 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 29, 2012 — Page 9 The news of 1920, part 1 He won the place on merit alone. It pays a handsome salary. Loren’s friends here are pleased over his good fortune. The March 18 issue says Congressman E.L. Hamilton has announced he will not be a candidate again. John C. Ketchum of this city announces that he will seek the nomination. The Banner of May 6 states that Miss Katherine Clarke, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. C.W. Clarke, of this city, won first place in declamation at the district contest in Kalamazoo Friday. She is a member of the sophomore class. Her success is a credit to the Hastings High School as well as to herself. “You Are Most Welcome in Our City.” That was the heading of a short first page item in the Banner of May 6, 1920. The welcome was extended to Dr. Chas S. McIntyre, who has bought a home in Hastings and will soon give up his practice in Woodland and locate here. He had a big practice there, but found he had to give up so much riding night and day as he had to do there. That same issue carries a fine picture of Hon. C.L. Glasgow of Nashville, and the heading of the article was “Here is the Man Michigan Needs in the Governor’s Chair.” That was true, too. He would have made a successful state executive. The Banner of May 13 has a fine article on its first page with this heading: “Hastings Now Has a Rotary Club.” The organization was completed Friday evening at the Masonic dining room. Aben E. Johnson was made president. Rev. Dr. H.H. Lowry, president of the Peking (China) University, is visiting his brother Dr. G.W. Lowry, and family of this city, says the Banner of May 14, 1920. The last issue in May speaks of juvenile delinquency as a serious problem in 1920 in Barry County. Sheriff Walter Burd warned that he would have to make arrests if parents did not correct their children. The sheriff said this very emphatically: “A lawless boy is the product of a home where there is no government or control of children.” The Banner of June 10 mentions the death of Mrs. C.M. Putnam of Nashville. Her hus- band died two years ago. They had no children. He taught the first school in the village, then engaged in business and had prospered. He had given to Nashville a large acreage for public playgrounds. His will provided that, when his wife died, their fine home was to be given to the village for a public library. He provided $1,000 to make changes needed to adapt the building for that purpose. He left $10,000 to maintain the library. He gave $5,000 to the children’s home in St. Joseph, and $1,000 to the Nashville Cemetery, on condition that it would maintain his lot with a part of the proceeds. Mrs. Putnam gave a women’s restroom to the village during her lifetime. In her will, she gave $10,000 to relatives and the balance of her estate to the children’s home in St. Joseph. They were surely public benefactors. The Banner of Aug. 19 says that Oscar L. Crook, of this city has retired from the railway mail service, after having given 37 consecutive years to that work, most of the time on the heavy run from Chicago to Detroit. Few men could stand the physical strain of that service for so long. (To be continued) Middleville DDA wants welcoming look at M-37 corner by Julie Makarewicz Staff Writer The look at the main intersection in Middleville might soon get a facelift with a welcoming and informative gateway to the village. Three local landscape architect firms attended this week’s Downtown Development Authority meeting to gather ideas about how to develop the two vacant corners at the northeast and southeast sides of the M-37 and Main Street intersection. The architects are expected to have proposals and cost estimates at the April 17 meeting. The DDA has some funds available for projects at the two sites, and the village recently approved seeking bonds for major projects, including the M-37 corner development. Village Manager Rebecca Fleury said the bonding includes about $14,750 for the intersection development. DDA members said they are looking for something inviting and welcoming to attract people to the downtown area. “I want something that people will take notice of,” said Brian Appel, DDA member. “I want it to be inviting.” Sheryl Ayriss, DDA member, said she sees a need for some kind of sign to provide information about the downtown area. “We need to give a little pizzazz to the heart of Middleville,” she said. She suggested an LED sign would be a good way to provide information and also be incorporated in a pleasant and welcoming design. Others said they want to make sure whatever is developed is low maintenance with year-round plantings. They want it to carry on the downtown theme with the bricks and decorative lamp posts. And they suggested some type of water feature might be a nice way to tie in the attraction of the Thornapple River and trail. DDA member Amy DeVries said she wants the corner to be “classy and cute. It needs to fit in with our downtown theme and old-town feeling we have.” The DDA purchased the two lots and has removed the houses that stood on the properties. Members said the development doesn’t have to use the entire lot and that they might consider selling parts of the lot to adjacent landowners. WELLNESS, continued from page 1 Octogenarians David and Sarah C. (Layman) Ickes were mentioned in a 1920 Banner for preparing Christmas dinner themselves – for a party of 25. The following story was published in the Nov. 13, 1952 Hastings Banner and written by M.L. Cook. ***** Says the Banner of Jan. 1, 1920: A remarkable event occurred in Baltimore Township on Christmas day, at the farm home of Mr. and Mrs. David Ickes. He is 83 and she 80 years old. They celebrated the 60th anniversary of their wedding that day. All four of their children, their grandchildren and great grandchildren were present but one. Twentyfive sat down at the wonderful dinner provided for them. The remarkable thing about it was that this fine repast was prepared and served by Mrs. Ickes. Not many women of her age could do that. Mr. and Mrs. Ickes were married in Ohio on Christmas Day, 1859. They started at once for Michigan in a covered wagon, drawn by an ox team. They landed, a few days later, on the farm which Mr. Ickes had purchased in Baltimore. They have lived there ever since. It is a beautiful farm, with a nice home, well furnished and with all the needed outbuildings and conveniences and machinery required for successful farming. They have prospered, as they deserved. Their four children are Walter, Oliver and Willard and Mrs. Ralph Striker. All of them live in Baltimore and are fine folks. The issue of Jan. 8, 1920: Mrs. Margaret Troxel, of this city, has given up teaching music after devoting 31 years to that work. She started with one pupil, and had over 70 when she ceased that work. A later January Banner told the following: Senator and editor M. H. DeFoe of Charlotte, was in Detroit not so long ago. While there, he visited Windsor, across the Detroit River in Canada. After doing the town he decided to return. He had heard that there were a few cases of smallpox in Detroit, but thought nothing about it. They always have something doing in that city. While waiting in line for the boat, a Canadian inspector approached him, as he did all the rest, and asked Murl if he had been vaccinated. He said he had not. He was ordered to step out of line, and did so. He was informed that he must be vaccinated. He protested that he was an American citizen visiting Canada. It did no good. He had to be vaccinated, as they would allow no one to go from Canada to Michigan without vaccination. He had a sore arm for a few days. But his sorest place is inside of him. He resents such compulsion as he endured. The Banner of Feb. 12 reported that it was rumored in Hastings that Hale Kenyon of Freeport had died, a victim of influenza. The Banner called his home by phone. Mr. Kenyon answered. He emphatically denied that he was dead. So a nice obituary we had in mind to print will not appear. That same Banner has a good story about Michigan Central Railroad conductor W.B. Cochran, of Jackson, who recently married Mrs. Margaret Troxel of this city. Mr. Cochran is a great josher himself, so he was prepared for a lot of joshing at his expense by the other trainmen, and had the answers to hand them. But he wasn’t prepared for this one. Among the passengers who entered the passenger car at Hastings was a little girl and her mother, who recognized Conductor Cochran as he stood near the door of the car. Just before the train left the depot here, and when it was quiet in the car, the little girl stood up, and pointing to Cochran said, in a loud voice, “Mother, that’s the guy that married my music teacher, Mrs. Troxel.” There didn’t appear to be any answer he could make that would stop the loud laughter in the car, so he ducked out of it as fast as he could. That little girl got his goat all right. Loren, son of Mr. and Mrs. Levant McIntyre, has just been chosen traffic manager for the Oregon Lumbermen’s Association. NOTICE TO BIDDERS BARRY COUNTY ROAD COMMISSION The Barry County Road Commission is offering for sale two 2011 GMC 1/2 ton crew Cab SLE pickups. Sealed proposals will be received at the office of the Barry County Road Commission, 1725 West M-43 Highway, P.O. Box 158, Hastings, MI 49058, until 4:00 PM, Tuesday, April 17, 2012 for the following items. Specifications and additional information may be obtained at the Road Commission Office at the above address or at our website www.barrycrc.org. 2-2011 GMC 1/2 ton Crew Cab SLE pickups 5.3 Liter 6 speeds 4 WD, Air, Cruise, PW & Locks, Keyless remote, Towing Package 1 Summit White, approx. 15,000 MilesMinimum Bid $24,000 1 Stealth Gray, approx. 10,000 MilesMinimum Bid $24,500 The board reserves the right to reject any or all proposals or to waive irregularities in the best interest of the Commission. BARRY COUNTY ROAD COMMISSIONERS OF THE COUNTY OF BARRY Frank M. Fiala, Chairman David D. Dykstra, Member D. David Solmes, Member 77566637 place wellness and prevention programs. Not every environment in which individuals live and spend time may be healthy. The idea now is to spread wellness and prevention beyond the workplace. “Leading by example is always the most impactful and sustaining,” stated the Edington Next Practice Award program, in its presentation to Hastings Fiberglass. Baum and his 75 fellow employees intend to continue setting that kind of an example. Dave Baum (right) accepts the Edington Next Practice Award at the 31st annual Wellness in the Workplace Conference March 14 at the Sheraton Hotel in Ann Arbor. Presenting the award are Jack Bastable (left) of CBIZ Benefits and Insurance Services and Dee Edington, founder of the Health Management Research Center at the University of Michigan. Reporting History for the Future in 6 Barry County Area Newspapers • Lakewood News • Maple Valley News • Middleville-Caledonia Sun & News • Reminder • Hastings Banner Over 64,000 Papers Distributed Every Week! 1351 N. M-43 Highway • P.O. Box 188 Hastings, MI 49058 Phone (269) 945-9554 • Fax (269) 945-5192 �Page 10 — Thursday, March 29, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by John R. Haynes, and Theresa L. Haynes, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated December 21, 2007, and recorded on January 8, 2008 in instrument 20080108-0000275, and assigned by said Mortgagee to SunTrust Mortgage, Inc. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Four Thousand Four Hundred Eighteen and 21/100 Dollars ($94,418.21), including interest at 6.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on April 5, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the West 1/4 corner of said Section; thence South 89 degrees 41 minutes 02 seconds East 1317.64 feet along the South line said Northwest 1/4; thence North 00 degrees 33 minutes 17 seconds East 735.00 feet along the West line of the East 1/2 of said Northwest 1/4 to the place of beginning; thence North 00 degrees 33 minutes 17 seconds East 220.00 feet along said West line; thence South 89 degrees 41 minutes 02 seconds East 325.00 feet; thence South 00 degrees 33 minutes 17 seconds West 220.00 feet; thence North 89 degrees 41 minutes 02 seconds West 325.00 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 8, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #390507F01 77566225 (03-08)(03-29) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Tracie Farrah and Jamie Farrah, Wife and Husband, to Bayrock Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated August 31, 2005 and recorded September 8, 2005 in Instrument Number 1152444, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, successor in interest to Bank of America, National Association as successor by merger to LaSalle Bank National Association, as Trustee for Certificateholders of Bear Stearns Asset Backed Securities I LLC, Asset Backed-Certificates, Series 2005-HE12 by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ninety-Nine Thousand Nine Hundred Ninety-Eight and 15/100 Dollars ($199,998.15) including interest at 8.425% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on APRIL 26, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The East 1385 feet of the North one-half of the South one-half of the Northwest one-quarter of Section 29, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, Hope Township, Barry County, Michigan, except the North 440 feet thereof. The redemption period shall be 12 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: March 29, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 199.3674 77566713 (03-29)(04-19) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Nicholas D. Blakely, a married man and Tiffany C. Blakely, signing for sole purpose of waiving her dower and homestead rights, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated November 30, 2005, and recorded on December 13, 2005 in instrument 1157561, and assigned by said Mortgagee to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Two Thousand Two Hundred Fifty-Two and 59/100 Dollars ($102,252.59), including interest at 7.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on April 12, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 10 of R.B. Gregg Addition, Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan according to the recorded plat thereof as recorded in Liber 1 of plats, Page 13, Barry County Records The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 15, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #345976F02 77566309 (03-15)(04-05) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Richard A. Hansma, a married man and Laurie J. KozaHansma, his wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns., Mortgagee, dated September 8, 2004 and recorded September 14, 2004 in Instrument Number 1133890, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Bank of America, N.A., as successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. FKA Countrywide Home Loans Servicing L.P by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Five Thousand Four Hundred Eighty-Five and 86/100 Dollars ($95,485.86) including interest at 6.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on APRIL 19, 2012. Said premises are located in the Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel located in the Township of Thornapple and Village of Middleville, County of Barry, State of Michigan, to wit: Lot 31 of Middleville Downs Addition Number 2 to the Village of Middleville, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 13, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: March 22, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 617.9829 77566601 (03-22)(04-12) SYNOPSIS RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP REGULAR BOARD MEETING MARCH 14, 2012 -7:30 P.M. Regular meeting called to order and Pledge of Allegiance. Present: Greenfield, Bellmore, Hawthorne, Carr, Lee, Hanshaw, Flint Approved the Agenda as presented. Approved the Consent Agenda as presented. Authorized Supervisor Carr to approach the City of Hastings to expand the 425 Agreement, but with no commitment to enter into an agreement. Approved a request for a Daisy Training Day at Tractor Supply Co. Approved Resolution #2012-149, Amending the FOIA Resolution. Meeting Adjourned at 8:39p.m. Respectfully submitted, Robin Hawthorne, Clerk Attested to by, Jim Carr, Supervisor 77566681 www.rutlandtownship.org Case No. 10-274-CH CIRCUIT COURT SALE In pursuance and by virtue of a Judgment of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on September 16, 2011, U.S. Bank National Association ND in a certain cause therein pending, wherein U.S. Bank National Association ND was the Plaintiff and Robert J. Stauffer and Shannon J. Stauffer, husband and wife were the Defendants. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that I shall sell at public auction to the highest bidder, at public venue, at the at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI, that being the place of holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, on the 5th day of April, A.D., 2012, at 1:00:00 PM o’clock in the forenoon, Eastern Standard Time, the following described property, towit: All certain piece or parcel of land situated in the Village of Middleville, County of Barry and State of Michigan, described as follows: Situated in the Village of Middleville, County of Barry and State of Michigan: Lots 6, 7 and 8 of Block 59 of the Village of Middleville, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats on Page 27, City of Middleville, County of Barry, Michigan as recorded in Liber 1, Page 27 of Plats, Barry County Records and that parcel of land commencing at the Northwest corner of Lot 8, Block 59 in the plat of Village of Middleville, thence South 65.98 feet along the West line of said Lot 8; thence West 5.0 feet along the North line of Lot 11, Block 59; thence North 65.98 feet parallel to the West line of Lot 8; thence East 5 feet to the point of beginning. Commonly known as: 302 Cherry Street This property may be redeemed during the six months following the sale. Dated: February 16, 2012 Mark Sheldon Deputy Sheriff WELTMAN, WEINBERG & REIS CO., L.P.A. Stuart A. Best (P-40744) Attorney for Plaintiff 2155 Butterfield Drive Suite 200-S Troy, MI 48084/WWR#10032301 (02-16)(03-29) 77565846 AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTIFY US AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by Randall M Royalty , A Single Person, Mortgagors, to Bank of America, N.A., , Mortgagee, dated the 25th day of March, 2009 and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, for The County of Barry and State of Michigan, on the 6th day of April, 2009 in Doc# 20090406-0003820 of Barry County Records, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, the sum of Two Hundred Twenty Eight Thousand Six Hundred Four and 48/100 ($228,604.48), and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on the 19th day of April, 2012 at 1:00 o’clock pm Local Time, said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI (that being the building where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held), of the premises described in said mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due, as aforesaid on said mortgage, with interest thereon at 4.875% per annum and all legal costs, charges, and expenses, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sum or sums which may be paid by the undersigned, necessary to protect its interest in the premises. Which said premises are described as follows: All that certain piece or parcel of land, including any and all structures, and homes, manufactured or otherwise, located thereon, situated in the City of Delton, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and described as follows, to wit: Commencing at the West 1/4 Post of Section 12, T1N; R9W, thence North along the West line of said Section 1389 feet thence East 156 feet to center of Road for true point of beginning, thence N parallel with section line to shore of Fair Lake thence West along Lake shore to a point 50 feet East of West Section line; thence South parallel to said line to center of road; thence Southeasterly along center of road to point of beginning. Excepting and reserving the Southerly 33 feet to be used in common with other adjacent property owners for roadway purposes only. Intended to describe the East 106 feet of the West 156 feet of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 12 lying South of Fair Lake and Northerly of centerline of existing road. During the six (6) months immediately following the sale, the property may be redeemed, except that in the event that the property is determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241a, the property may be redeemed during 30 days immediately following the sale. Pursuant to MCLA 600.3278, the mortgagor(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 3/22/2012 Bank of America, N.A., as successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP, 7105 Corporate Dr., Mail Stop PTX-C35, Plano, TX 75024 Mortgagee FABRIZIO & BROOK, P.C. Attorney for Bank of America, N.A., as successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP, 7105 Corporate Dr., Mail Stop PTX-C35, Plano, TX 75024 888 W. Big Beaver, Suite 800 Troy, Ml 48084 248-362-2600 77566544 BOA FNMA Royalty (03-22)(04-12) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Gregory M. Gillson and Cheryl L. Gillson, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated October 24, 2001, and recorded on November 1, 2001 in instrument 1069072, in Barry county records, Michigan, and assigned by said Mortgagee to M&T Bank as assignee, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Seven Thousand Four Hundred Five and 06/100 Dollars ($97,405.06), including interest at 7.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on April 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 16, Old Farm Village, according to the recorded Plat thereof in Liber 6 of Plats, on Page 22 Barry County Records The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 22, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #395848F01 77566596 (03-22)(04-12) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Gloria A. Mann, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 26, 2005, and recorded on September 12, 2005 in instrument 1152639, and assigned by said Mortgagee to The Bank of New York Mellon f/k/a The Bank of New York as successor to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as trustee for the benefit of the Certificateholders of Popular ABS, Inc. Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates Series 2005-D as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Five Thousand Eight Hundred Eighty-Nine and 59/100 Dollars ($135,889.59), including interest at 7.65% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on April 12, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the West 1/4 post of section 16, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, Hastings Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence South 89 degrees 45 minutes 46 seconds East 1321.46 feet along the East-West 1/4 line of said section 16 to the Northwest corner of the East 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4 of said section 16 and the Place of Beginning; thence South 89 degrees 45 minutes 46 seconds East along said 1/4 line, 250.40 feet; thence South 14 degrees 52 minutes 57 seconds West 327.22 feet to the centerline of Mill Road; thence North 46 degrees 53 minutes 57 seconds West 228.20 feet along said centerline; thence North 00 degrees 05 minutes 43 seconds East along the West line of said East 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4, 161.35 feet to the Place of Beginning. Subject to an easement for public Highway Purposes over the Southwesterly 33 feet thereof For Mill Road. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 15, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #289357F03 77566484 (03-15)(04-05) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Anthony J. Wolfe, a single man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Polaris Home Funding Corp. its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated October 30, 2006, and recorded on November 8, 2006 in instrument 1172545, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eight Thousand Three Hundred Nine and 45/100 Dollars ($108,309.45). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on April 26, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at a point 115 rods North of the Southwest corner of Sectioin 21; Town 3 North; Range 8 West, for a place of beginning; thence North 66 feet; thence East 250 feet; thence South 66 feet; thence West 250 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 29, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #379843F01 77566641 (03-29)(04-19) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Barry Joe Roscoe and Christine Ann Roscoe husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 4, 2007, and recorded on April 23, 2007 in instrument 1179609, and modified by Affidavit or Order recorded on March 13, 2012 in instrument 201203130002590, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Wells Fargo Bank, NA as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty Thousand Six Hundred Thirty-Seven and 49/100 Dollars ($120,637.49), including interest at 6.75% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on April 26, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Maple Grove, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Southeast Corner of Section 6, Town 2 North, Range 7 West, Thence North 00 degrees 19 minutes 12 seconds East 1081.83 feet to point of beginning; thence North 88 degrees 56 minutes 30 seconds West 165 feet; thence South 00 degrees 19 minutes 12 seconds West 148.5 feet; thence North 88 degrees 56 minutes 30 seconds West 80 feet; thence North 00 degrees 19 minutes 12 seconds East 396 feet; thence South 88 degrees 56 minutes 30 seconds East 245 feet; thence South 00 degrees 19 minutes 12 seconds West 247.50 feet to point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 29, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #367381F07 77566619 (03-29)(04-19) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 29, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES Case No. 11-466-CH Notice of Judicial Foreclosure Sale on a Default Judgment and Judgment of Foreclosure Against Defendants Teresa J. Lindsey, f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker and Shana Ciampa NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to the terms of a Default Judgment and Judgment of Foreclosure of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan signed and filed on January 17, 2012, in the case of Eaton Federal Savings Bank, Plaintiff v Teresa J. Lindsey, f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker and Shana Ciampa, Defendants, Case No. 11-466-CH, wherein, among other things, the Court allowed the foreclosure of a mortgage granted by Teresa J. Lindsey f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker (Mortgagor) to Eaton Federal Savings Bank on September 27, 2007 and recorded October 4, 2007 at Instrument No. 200710040002745, pages 1 through 10, Barry County Records, against the Mortgagor. Pursuant to the Default Judgment and Judgment for Foreclosure, the mortgaged premises shall be sold at a public auction by or under the direction of Clerk or Sheriff for the County of Barry to the highest bidder at the main entrance to the Barry County Courthouse, 220 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 on Thursday, May 17, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., local time. The following described “Mortgaged Premises”: Parcel 1: Lot 13 of Standley’s First Addition to Fine Lake Park, Johnstown Township, Barry County, Michigan, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, on Page 31, Also, beginning at the Southeast corner of Lot 13 of Standley’s First Addition to Fine Lake Park, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, on Page 31; thence North 26 degrees East along the Easterly line of Lots 13 and 14 of said Plat, 100.00 feet, thence South 82 degrees 54 minutes East 50.00 feet; thence South 26 degrees West, 100.00 feet; thence North 82 degrees 54 minutes West 50.00 feet to the point of beginning. Parcel 2: Beginning at the Southwest corner of Lot 8 of Fine Lake Park, Johnstown Township, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof; thence Northeasterly along the East Shore of Fine Lake to a point 10 feet from said place of beginning; thence Easterly to a point on the Easterly line of said Lot which is 3 feet North of the Southeast corner of said Lot; thence Southerly along the East line of said Lot to the Southeast corner thereof; thence Westerly along the South line of said Lot to the place of beginning. The Mortgaged Premises, whose address is 823 East Shore Drive, Battle Creek, Michigan, 49017, also include all right, title and interests held by Teresa J. Lindsey f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker as of September 27, 2007, in the Mortgaged Premises. The Premises may be redeemed during the six (6) months following the date of sale. BODMAN PLC By: Sandra L. Jasinski (P37430) Attorneys for Eaton Federal Savings Bank 229 Court Street, P.O. Box 405 Cheboygan, Michigan 49721 (231) 627-8000 Date: March 29, 2012 Dates of publication: March 29, April 5, 12, 19, 26, 77566696 May 3, and 10, 2012. FORECLOSURE NOTICE RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES, P.C. MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. Mortgage Sale - Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by PATRICK W ELLIOTT AND MARY A ELLIOTT, HUSBAND AND WIFE to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. acting solely as a nominee for First Franklin Financial Corp., An Op. Sub. of MLB&T Co., FSB, Mortgagee, dated May 18, 2007, and recorded on June 25, 2007, as Document Number: 1182161, Barry County Records, said mortgage was assigned to U.S. BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE TO BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., AS SUCCESSOR TO LASALLE BANK, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR THE MERRILL LYNCH FIRST FRANKLIN MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST, MORTGAGE LOAN ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-4 by an Assignment of Mortgage dated December 01, 2007 and recorded January 14, 2008 by Document Number: 20080114-0000394, , on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Six Thousand Eight Hundred Fourteen and 02/100 ($66,814.02) including interest at the rate of 6.05000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the Circuit Court in said Barry County, where the premises to be sold or some part of them are situated, at 01:00 PM on April 19, 2012 Said premises are situated in the Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 4 and the West half of Lot 5 of BARRETT ACRES Plat, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 4 of Plats on page 30, Barry County Records. Also, beginning at the Northwest corner of said Lot 4 of the recorded Plat of BARRETT ACRES; thence South 89 degrees 18 minutes East on the North line of Lot 4, 100 feet; thence North 134 feet; thence North 89 degrees 18 minutes West 100 feet; thence South 134 feet to the place of beginning. Being part of the Northwest quarter of Section 5, Town 1 North, Range 9 West. Commonly known as: 239 ORCHARD ST If the property is eventually sold at foreclosure sale, the redemption period will be 6.00 months from the date of sale unless the property is abandoned or used for agricultural purposes. If the property is determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 and/or 600.3241a, the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of sale, or 15 days after statutory notice, whichever is later. If the property is presumed to be used for agricultural purposes prior to the date of the foreclosure sale pursuant to MCL 600.3240, the redemption period is 1 year. Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages are, if any, limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: March 22, 2012 Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for U.S. BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE TO BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., AS SUCCESSOR TO LASALLE BANK, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR THE MERRILL LYNCH FIRST FRANKLIN MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST, MORTGAGE LOAN ASSETBACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-4 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills,MI 48302,(248)335-9200 Case No. 12MI00471-1 (0377566606 22)(04-12) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Norman H. Royston, unmarried, original mortgagor(s), to Bank of America, N.A., Mortgagee, dated June 25, 2008, and recorded on July 11, 2008 in instrument 20080711-0007102, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Forty-Three Thousand Four Hundred Ninety-Nine and 71/100 Dollars ($143,499.71), including interest at 6% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on April 5, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Northeast corner of the Southeast fractional 1/4 of Section 25, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, Hasting Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence South to the Northerly line of Michigan Central Railroad right-of-way; thence in a Southwesterly direction along said rightof-way 255 feet to the place of beginning; thence Southwesterly along said right-of-way 45 feet; thence Northwesterly at a 90 degree angle to said right-of-way to the lake; thence Northeasterly along the lake 45 feet; thence Southeasterly to the place of beginning. Also a strip of land being former raid road right-of-way situated in the County of Barry, Hasting Township being part of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 25, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, located over and across or adjacent to the property hereinbefore described The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 8, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #398120F01 77566231 (03-08)(03-29) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by ELMER HAAKSMA and ALICE HAAKSMA, husband and wife (collectively, "Mortgagor"), to BYRON BANK, now known as CHEMICAL BANK, a Michigan banking corporation, having an office at 333 E. Main Street, Midland, Michigan 48640-6511 (the "Mortgagee"), dated November 29, 2005, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on December 12, 2005, as Instrument No. 1157537 (the "Mortgage"). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgagee is the owner of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage. Mortgage Electronic Registration System (MERS) is not the sole foreclosing party. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Five Hundred Thirty-Two Thousand Three Hundred Eight and 43/100 Dollars ($532,308.43). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 12th day of April, 2012, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the Township of Yankee Springs, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: Lot(s) 95, Sunrise Shores No. 2, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 98. Together with all the improvements erected on the real estate, and all easements, appurtenances, and fixtures a part of the property, and all replacements and additions. Commonly known as: 12711 Sunrise Court, Wayland, Michigan 49348 P.P. #08-16-220-095-00 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys the premises at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee for damaging the premises during the redemption period. Dated: March 15, 2012 CHEMICAL BANK Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2487 (616) 752-2000 77566442 7656530-1 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Timothy B. Priemer, an unmarried man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 31, 2006, and recorded on September 6, 2006 in instrument 1169562, and assigned by said Mortgagee to PHH Mortgage Corporation as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Four Thousand Eight Hundred Eighty-Five and 48/100 Dollars ($104,885.48), including interest at 7.833% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on April 12, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 12 of Smith's Lakeview Estates No. 1 according to the recorded plat thereof as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats on Page 2, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 15, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #393109F01 77566437 (03-15)(04-05) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Wendell Armour, Jr. and Brenda Armour, husband and wife as joint tenants, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Alternative Lending Group, its successors or assigns, Mortgagee, dated May 1, 2001 and recorded August 3, 2001 in Instrument Number 1064146, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by GMAC Mortgage, LLC successor by merger to GMAC Mortgage Corporation by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Eight Thousand Nine Hundred Seventy-Three and 85/100 Dollars ($88,973.85) including interest at 7.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on APRIL 12, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The land referred to in this Commitment, situated in the County of Barry, Township of Rutland, State of Michigan, is described as follows: Beginning at a point on the North-South 1/4 line of Section 34, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, Rutland Township, Barry County, Michigan distant South 01 degree 17 minutes 42 seconds East, 1838.59 feet from the North 1/4 corner of said Section 34; thence South 01 degree 17 minutes 42 seconds East 255.00 feet along said North-South 1/4 line; thence South 89 degrees 54 minutes 46 seconds East 740.77 feet; thence North 01 degree 17 minutes 42 seconds West, 255.00 feet; thence North 88 degrees 54 minutes 46 seconds West, 740.77 feet to the point of beginning. Subject to an easement for public highway purposes. For highway M-43 as described in Liber 142 of Deeds on Page 49. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: March 15, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 618.8146 (03-15)(04-05) 77566428 SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by KALEE N. HUFF, A SINGLE WOMAN and CHRISTOPHER J. TAYLOR, A SINGLE MAN, to WOLVERINE BANK, Mortgagee, dated October 27, 2008, and recorded on October 29, 2008, in Document No. 20081029-0010582, and assigned by said mortgagee to MICHIGAN STATE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eighteen Thousand Five Hundred Fifty-Eight Dollars and Twenty-Three Cents ($118,558.23), including interest at 5.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on April 5, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: LOT 6 AND THE SOUTH 3 FEET OF LOT 1, BLOCK 8, DANIEL STRIKER'S ADDITION TO THE CITY, FORMERLY VILLAGE OF HASTINGS, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF AS RECORDED IN LIBER 1 OF PLATS ON PAGE 11, BARRY COUNTY RECORDS. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. MICHIGAN STATE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY Mortgagee/ Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 77566321 48335 USBW.001309 (03-08)(03-29) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTENTION PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain Mortgage made between WALTER L. CHURCH and STEPHANIE S. CHURCH, husband and wife, whose address is 547 Meadow Lane, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagor, and ICNB MORTGAGE COMPANY LLC, a Michigan limited liability company, whose address is 302 West Main Street, Ionia, Michigan 48846, as Mortgagee, dated June 24, 2009, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on June 29, 2009, in Document No. 200906290006711, upon which Mortgage is claimed to be due at the date of this notice the sum of ONE HUNDRED THIRTY-FOUR THOUSAND FOUR HUNDRED EIGHTY-SIX AND 21/100 ($134,486.21) DOLLARS, and no suit or proceedings at law or equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said Mortgage, or any part thereof; NOW, THEREFORE, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said Mortgage, and pursuant to the statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on April 5, 2012, at 1:00 p.m., said Mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse, 220 West State Street in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, Michigan (that being the building where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held) of the premises described in said Mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due of said Mortgage, with interest thereon at 4.875% per annum, and all legal costs, expenses and charges, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sums which may be paid by the undersigned to protect its interest in the premises, which said premises are described as follows: Land situated in the Township of Hastings, County of Barry and State of Michigan, to-wit: Lot 28 of the Plat of Fairhaven, according to the Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 45, Barry County Records, EXCEPT the West 311 feet of the North 294.75 feet of Lot 28 of the Plat of Fairhaven; together with ingress and egress over certain property described in the deed recorded in Liber 372, Page 522, as modified by Quit Claim Deed recorded in Liber 641, Page 673; ALSO the East 20 feet of the West 311 feet of the North 294.75 feet of Lot 28 of the Plat of Fairhaven as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 45, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of such sale, unless Mortgagor provides notice that the property is agricultural in accordance with MCL 600.3240(17), in which case the redemption period shall be one (1) year, or unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be thirty (30) days from the date of such sale. If the property described in this Notice is sold at the foreclosure sale referred to above, the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the purchaser who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period in accordance with MCL 600.3278 or as otherwise provided by law. ICNB MORTGAGE COMPANY LLC Mortgagee Dated this 1st day of March, 2012. TIMOTHY L. CURTISS, Esq. Braun Kendrick Finkbeiner P.L.C. 304 East Broadway, Suite 206 Mt. Pleasant, Michigan 48858 77566151 989/775-7404 Notice of Foreclosure Sale THIS LAW FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. MORTGAGE SALE - Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by Richard L. Warner and Judy A. Warner of Barry County, Michigan, Mortgagors, unto Consumers Credit Union, Mortgagee, dated the 27th day of August, 2004, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deed for the County of Barry and State of Michigan on the 3rd day of September, 2004, in Liber 1133469 of Barry County Records, on Pages 1-9, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, at the date of this notice, for principal and interest, the sum of $206,684.32. And no suit or proceeding at law or in equity have been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to the statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on Thursday, April 19, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. local time, said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder or bidders, for cash at the Barry County Courthouse, Hastings, Michigan, that being the place where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held, of the premises described in said mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due, as aforesaid on said mortgage, with interest thereon at 8.99% per annum and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and also any sum or sums which may be paid by the undersigned, necessary to protect its interest in the premises, which said premises are situated in the Township of Barry, County of Barry, and described as follows: Commencing at the North 1/4 post of Section 8, Town 1 North, Range 9 West; Thence South 01 degree 21 minutes 00 seconds East along the North and South 1/4 line of said Section, 1320.96 feet; Thence South 89 degrees 50 minutes 00 seconds East along the North line of the South 1/2 of the Northeast 1/4 of said Section 8, a distance of 813.47 feet; Then South 37 degrees 13 minutes 48 seconds East, 95.34 feet; Thence South 34 degrees 25 minutes 30 seconds East, 112.31 feet; Thence South 39 degrees 29 minutes 34 seconds East, 62.81 feet; Thence South 40 degrees 47 minutes 17 seconds East, 20.46 feet; Then South 42 degrees 14 minutes 35 seconds East, 515.75 feet; Thence South 52 degrees 43 minutes 27 seconds East, 169.55 feet to the true place of beginning; Thence North 36 degrees 38 minutes 32 seconds East, 113.03 feet to a traverse line along the shore of Pleasant Lake; Thence South 63 degrees 42 minutes 41 seconds East, along said traverse line 54.00 feet to the end of said traverse line; Thence South 38 degrees 05 minutes 37 seconds West, 123.33 feet; Thence North 52 degrees 43 minutes 27 seconds West, 50.00 feet to the place of beginning. Intending to include all land between the above described traverse line and the waters edge of Pleasant Lake. Together with and subject to: Easement 1: An easement for ingress and egress over a strip of land 30 feet wide described as: commencing at the North 1/4 post of Section 8, Town 1 North, Range 9 West; Thence South 01 degree 21 minutes 00 seconds East along the North and South 1/4 line of said Section, 1320.96 feet to the place of beginning; Thence South 89 degrees 50 minutes 00 seconds East along the North line of the South 1/2 of the Northeast 1/4 of said Section 8, a distance of 813.47 feet; Thence South 37 degrees 13 minutes 48 seconds East, 37.76 feet; Thence North 89 degrees 50 minutes 00 seconds West, 835.61 feet to said North and South 1/4 line; Thence North 01 degree 21 minutes 00 seconds West along said 1/4 line, 30.01 feet to the place of beginning. Easement 2: An easement for ingress and egress over a strip of land 16.50 feet wide described as: commencing at the North 1/2 post of Section 8, Town 1 North, Range 9 West; Thence South 01 degree 21 minutes 00 seconds East along the North and South 1/4 line of said Section, 1320.96 feet; Thence South 89 degrees 50 minutes 00 seconds East along the North line of the South 1/2 of the Northeast 1/4 of said Section 8, a distance of 813.47 feet; Thence South 37 degrees 13 minutes 48 seconds East, 37.76 feet to the true place of beginning; Thence South 37 degrees 13 minutes 38 seconds East 57.57 feet; Thence South 34 degrees 25 minutes 30 seconds East, 112.31 feet; Thence South 39 degrees 29 minutes 34 seconds East, 62.81 feet; Thence South 40 degrees 47 minutes 17 seconds East, 176.21 feet; Thence South 42 degrees 14 minutes 35 seconds East, 360.00 feet; Thence South 52 degrees 43 minutes 26 seconds East, 269.55 feet; Thence South 59 degrees 00 minutes 18 seconds East, 200.00 feet; Thence South 43 degrees 36 minutes 32 seconds West, 16.91 feet; Thence North 59 degrees 00 minutes 18 seconds West, 197.21 feet; Thence North 52 degrees 43 minutes 26 seconds West, 271.97 feet; Thence North 42 degrees 14 minutes 35 seconds West, 361.65 feet; Thence North 40 degrees 47 minutes 17 seconds West, 176.67 feet; Thence North 39 degrees 29 minutes 34 seconds West, 63.37 feet; Thence North 34 degrees 25 minutes 30 seconds West, 112.64 feet; Thence North 37 degrees 13 minutes 48 seconds West, 69.78 feet; Thence South 89 degrees 50 minutes 00 seconds East, 20.76 feet to the place of beginning. Property address: 11389 S. West Shore Drive, Delton, MI 49046 The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241 a, in which case the redemption period shall be thirty days from the date of such sale. Dated: March 8, 2012 Tyren R. Cudney (P46638) Attorney for Mortgagee DRAFTED BY: Tyren R. Cudney Lennon, Miller, O’Connor & Bartosiewicz, PLC. 900 Comerica Building Kalamazoo, MI 49007/(269) 381-8844 77566392 �Page 12 — Thursday, March 29, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Some schools move up a class, others down Bridge Card millionaires How would you feel if you knew someone who hit it big in the lottery, and the next day you saw them at a convenience store using their taxpayer-funded Bridge Card? My colleagues in the state Legislature and I were shocked this month to discover that Amanda Clayton, a 24-year old woman from the Lincoln Park suburb of Detroit, won a million dollars in the state’s “Make Me Rich” lottery game show, but continued to spend state assistance instead of her winnings to buy groceries. What’s more, this young woman, who now owns two homes and a new car, told the media she felt she was entitled to continue using taxpayer assistance because she was “struggling.” People flooded legislative offices with calls, outraged that no policy was in place to prevent this. Technically, a policy is in place that requires people to report changes in their income or assets. But this relies on the honor system — if people who are on public assistance don’t contact the Department of Human Services when they come into a sum of money, DHS is none the wiser. In February, we passed House Bill 5032, which requires the state lottery bureau to report any winnings over $1,000 to the DHS so the name of the winner can be cross- checked with those receiving public assistance. If this bill is signed into law, winners would be removed from public assistance if their winnings surpass the asset test. I have yet to find anyone who opposes this bill. In Amanda Clayton’s case, she was recently cut off from her Bridge Card, but she won the money last September. If she was getting $200 per month in food assistance since then, that’s $1,200 she has received from hardworking taxpayers just since she claimed her winnings. That’s $1,200 that could have gone to someone who truly needed financial assistance. And Amanda Clayton wasn’t the first lottery winner to continue to collect from taxpayers after hitting it rich. Leroy Fick of Bay County, who won $2 million in the “Make Me Rich” game in 2010 was found to still be using his Bridge Card a year after he collected his lump sum. Hardworking taxpayers deserve better than this. Michigan’s welfare system cannot be a free-for-all. We need to ensure safeguards, while getting benefits to those who are truly in need. If you’d like to share your thoughts on this issue, please do not hesitate to contact me at MikeCallton@house.mi.gov. Hastings Area Schools to be part of pilot testing program Hastings Area Schools has announced the participation in a program to administer the Explore test from ACT in an electronic format. As a member of the Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium, the Michigan Department of Education has made a goal to move all high-stakes testing to an online format. This pilot will help our students to make the transition from a traditional paper or pencil assessment to a digitized response. Schools that elect to participate in this pilot will receive a set of Turning Technologies clickers for the administration of the Explore test at no cost. As part of the pilot, students will take an Explore test from ACT using either the traditional paper “bubble” form or a clicker as the answer input device. In each format, the students are self-paced as they work through the test with each student working from his or her own booklet with a clicker or a pencil to record answers. Testing rooms need to be divided — clicker testers with one proctor and pencil testers with another. Retired Explore tests may not be used for the clicker pilot. Recent research examining tests of students who used the Turning Technologies ResponseCard NXT versus those who used pencil and paper showed no significant statistical difference in scores. Turning Technologies’ method has been shown to provide accurate, secure data that can be scored and returned to the school exponentially faster than the traditional bubble form methodology. The ResponseCard NXT is the same clicker that will be used for our upcoming pilot. By participating in this pilot, schools will receive support and the benefit of the following: • Score data available online within 48 hours after submission. • Early access to the ACT online report portal which will include linkage and all traditional reports. • All materials shipped to the site ready to use. • Discounts for the district to purchase classroom-based testing solutions from Turning Technologies for up to one year. • First look at computer-based testing solutions with the ability to provide feedback and guidance to future solutions and first exposure to new products and potentially additional pilots. LEGAL NOTICES FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Clifford Alan Slack, a single man, and Jerry Austin and Debra Austin, husband and wife, as joint tenants with full rights of survivorship to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for Michigan Home Finance, LLC, its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated October 27, 2008 and recorded November 5, 2008 in Instrument # 200811050010776 Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage was assigned to: Flagstar Bank, FSB, by assignment dated December 27, 2011 and recorded January 10, 2012 in Instrument # 201201100000352 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Two Thousand Six Hundred EightyTwo Dollars and Thirty-One Cents ($132,682.31) including interest 6% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on April 26, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the East one-quarter post of Section 33, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, Township of Hope, County of Barry, State of Michigan, thence West 212 feet for the Place of Beginning; thence continuing West 212 feet thence North 330 feet; thence East 212 feet; thence South 330 feet to the Place of Beginning. Commonly known as 4180 Harrington Rd, Delton MI 49046 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 3/29/2012 Flagstar Bank, FSB Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 11-53966 (03-29)(04-19) Keep your friends and relatives INFORMED! Send them The BANNER To subscribe, call us at... 269-945-9554 STATE OF MICHIGAN JUDICIAL DISTRICT JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY PROBATE ORDER FOR SERVICE BY PUBLICATION/POSTING AND NOTICE OF ACTION CASE NO. 1245-DM Plaintiff Kayla Lambert 4440 S. M-37 Hwy., Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 948-5522 v Defendant Justin D. Lambert TO: Justin D. Lambert IT IS ORDERED: You are being sued in this court by the plaintiff in the Divorce Matter of Kayla Lambert v. Justin Lambert File #12-45-DM. You must file your answer or take other action permitted by law in this court at the court address above on or before 28 days after last posting. If you fail to do so, a default judgement may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint filed in this case. A copy of this order shall be published once each week in the Hastings Banner for three consecutive weeks, and proof of publication shall be filed in this court. A copy of this order shall be sent to Justin Lambert at the last-known address by registered mail, return receipt requested, before the date of the last publication, and the affidavit of mailing shall be filed with this court. Date: 3/7/12 77566675 Judge Amy L. McDowell FORECLOSURE NOTICE (ALL COUNTIES) AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTIFY (248) 362-6100 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by Janice F Kramer, a single woman of Barry County, Michigan, Mortgagor to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. dated the 10th day of July, 2008, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, for the County of Barry and State of Michigan, on the 18th day of July, 2008, in Instrument No. 20080718-0007344 of Barry Records, which said mortgage was assigned to The Huntington National Bank, thru mesne assignments, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, for principal of $168,137.47 (one hundred sixty-eight thousand one hundred thirty-seven and 47/100) plus accrued interest at 6.875% (six point eight seven five) percent per annum. And no suit proceedings at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to the statue of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on, the 26th day of April, 2012, at 1:00:00 PM said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI, Barry County, Michigan, of the premises described in said mortgage. Which said premises are described as follows: All that certain piece or parcel of land situate in the Township of Barry, in the County of Barry and State of Michigan and described as follows to wit: Situated in the Township of Barry, County of Barry and State of Michigan: Lot 11 of Poplar Beach, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 14, Barry Township, Barry County, Michigan. Commonly known as: 6894 Shoreline Drive, fka 6802 South Shore Drive Tax Parcel No.: 03-105008-00 The redemption period shall be six months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: March 29, 2012 By: Foreclosing Attorneys Attorney for Plaintiff Weltman, Weinberg & Reis Co., L.P.A. 2155 Butterfield Drive, Suite 200-S Troy, MI 48084 WWR# 10089762 (03-29)(04-19) 77566733 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate Estate of FRANCES A. VARGASON, Deceased. Date of birth: 11/21/1929. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, FRANCES A. VARGASON, who lived at 1603 S. Jefferson Street, Hastings, Michigan died 02/23/2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Michelle A. Skedgell, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West Court Street, Suite 302, Hastings and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 03/19/2012 Robert L. Byington P27621 222 West Apple Street, P.O. Box 248 Hastings, Michigan 49058 (269) 945-9557 Michelle A. Skedgell 1603 South Jefferson Hastings, Michigan 49058 77566661 (269) 838-0614 FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: David A McCausey and Wendi L McCausey, husband and wife to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc as nominee for Flagstar Bank, FSB its successors and assigns , Mortgagee, dated August 4, 2006 and recorded August 11, 2006 in Instrument # 1168493 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: Flagstar Bank, FSB, by assignment dated February 28, 2012 and recorded March 7, 2012 in Instrument # 201203070002351 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ten Thousand Six Hundred Twenty-Two Dollars and Fifty-Six Cents ($110,622.56) including interest 7.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on April 19, 2012 Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The West 48 Feet of Lot 961 of the City, Formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded Plat thereof Commonly known as 126 W Walnut St, Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 3/22/2012 Flagstar Bank, FSB, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-57716 (0377566611 22)(04-12) NOTICE TO ALL PERSONS WHO MAY HAVE EXISTING CLAIMS AGAINST G & R FELPAUSCH COMPANY Notice is hereby given, pursuant to Section 842(a) of the Michigan Business Corporation Act, as amended, to all persons who may have claims against G & R Felpausch Company, a Michigan corporation (the “Corporation”) that the Corporation was dissolved by operation of law effective as of March 22, 2012. Any person with a claim against the Corporation must submit a written statement setting forth a description of the claim, including (1) the basis of the claim and how it arose, (2) the date or dates on which the claim arose, (3) the amount of the claim (if known) or a reasonable estimate of the amount of the claim and (4) the name and address of the claimant. Accompanying the description of the claim shall be copies of all invoices, statements, billings or other documentation which evidence the claim. All claims and supporting material must be submitted to the Corporation, at the following address: G & R Felpausch Company 127 S. Michigan Ave. P.O. Box 339 Hastings, Michigan 49058 If the written statement and any supporting materials received from a claimant do not provide sufficient information, the Corporation may demand additional information to permit it to make a reasonable judgment as to whether a claim should be accepted or rejected. A claim against the Corporation will be barred unless a proceeding to enforce the claim is commenced within one (1) year after the publication date of this newspaper notice. G & R FELPAUSCH COMPANY By: Mark S. Feldpausch Its: President (03-29) 77566673 FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Justin Lowell Morgan and Rebecca Lynn Morgan, Husband and Wife to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Homeland Mortgage Company, its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated September 9, 2005 and recorded September 28, 2005 in Instrument # 1153525 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: CitiMortgage, Inc., by assignment dated January 30, 2012 and recorded February 10, 2012 in Instrument # 201202100001458 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Five Thousand Nine Hundred Twenty Dollars and Sixty-Eight Cents ($85,920.68) including interest 6.89% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on April 12, 2012 Said premises are situated in Village of Freeport, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 4, Block 7, Samuel Roush's Addition, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 23, Barry County Records. Commonly known as 236 S East St, Freeport MI 49325 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 3/15/2012 CitiMortgage, Inc., Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-56979 (0377566472 15)(04-05) Classifications for Michigan High School Athletic Association elections and postseason tournaments for the 2012-13 school year have been announced. Classifications for the upcoming school year are based on a second semester count date, which for MHSAA purposes was Feb. 8. After all the counts are submitted, tournament-qualified member schools are ranked according to enrollment, and then split as closely into quarters as possible, said Geoff Kimmerly, MHSAA media and content coordinator in a press release Monday. The new classification breaks will see 29 schools move up in class for 2012-13, while 24 schools will move down. West Michigan schools subject to a class shift include: Moving up from Class B to Class A — St. Joseph, East Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids Christian, Fruitport and Coldwater. Moving down from Class A to Class B — Grand Rapids Creston. Moving up from Class C to Class B — Kentwood Grand River Preparatory. Moving down from Class B to Class C — Muskegon Heights. Moving up from Class D to Class C — Grand Rapids Wellspring Preparatory. Moving down from Class C to Class D — Mendon, Mesick. The 2012-13 academic will have 760 tournament-qualified member schools and 190 schools in each class. High schools with 911 or more students will be Class A; those with 449 to 910 will be Class B; 217 to 448 will be Class C; and high schools with 216 or fewer students will be Class D. Delton Kellogg was just two students away from the cutoff between Class B and C, and Thornapple Kellogg was seven students from the cutoff between Class B and A. Enrollment at area high schools, and rank among the 760 schools, based on MHSAA classification are: High school Caledonia Charlotte Delton Kellogg Gull Lake Hastings Lakewood Lowell Maple Valley Thornapple Kellogg Wayland Rank Enrollment 105 1,320 220 851 383 447 168 977 222 850 273 672 130 1,177 399 417 197 904 215 868 A complete list of school enrollments used to determine classifications for the 2012-13 school year can be found on the enrollment and classification page of the MHSAA website, www.mhsaa.com. Maple Valley launching new early elementary program by Shari Carney Staff Writer A lunch invitation from Maple Valley School Superintendent Ronna Steel to teachers Heather Bross, kindergarten, and Amy Billings, second grade, was the springboard to what has become Maple Valley Academy. Steel presented an outline of her idea and gave them the reins to “go and develop it.” Maple Valley Academy was born. Set to launch with the start of the 2012-13 school year, the program will start with a combined kindergarten and first grade class. Student learning will be based on an independent level, as opposed to grade level. After mastering a given subject, each student will proceed to the next level. The student will have multiple opportunities to learn concepts. Learning styles, individual characteristics and personal interests will be incorporated into the individualized program. The team hopes to see the program spread throughout the district. Since its inception seven additional teachers at Fuller Street Elementary School have shown interest. Bross and Billings will be developing their curriculum over the summer. Parents will be active participants and will meet regularly with the teachers as a student progress is measured. For the program to begin, 60 students must register. Applications for Maple Valley Academy are available at the district administrative office and from Bross and Billings. If there is not enough interest, the program will be placed on hold. If the number exceeds 60, evenly matched kindergarten to first grade, a lottery-type drawing will determine participation. For more information on the academy, call Bross, 269-838-6084, or Billings, 517-5437767. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 29, 2012 — Page 13 Former property owner shot during dispute Family members follow different paths in circuit court by David DeDecker Staff Writer With a suggestion posed straight from the circuit court bench, James Michael Grantham Sr., one of three family members appearing before Judge Amy McDowell for sentencing last week, suddenly changed his mind on a plea deal offered by the prosecutor’s office and instead asked for a trial in front of a jury of his peers. Grantham, his wife Lisa Marie Grantham, and his son James Michael Grantham Jr., are accused of a Sept. 11 assault at their Middleville home on a Barry County sheriff’s deputy who had arrived following a call reporting that a man with outstanding warrants was at the address. Mother and son were sentenced March 23 but, in the same courtroom that same day, James Grantham had reason to reconsider his own path to justice as suggested by his attorney, James Goulooze, following McDowell’s stated observations about the case. “I somewhat question why this plea agreement was made,” said Judge McDowell. “It sounds like a very serious offense from the facts which have been given by the prosecution, the People and the victim in this case. “Mr. Goulooze, you are asking me to forget she is a police officer, and I am not going to do that. This offense is resisting and obstructing a police officer, causing injury. It’s not a regular citizen, it’s named the way it is for a specific reason. It is a police officer.” “I understand that, but what do you do when someone invades your house?” said Goulooze. “You are asking me to treat them like adults, yet in this instance they acted like children,” replied McDowell. “I believe the deputy was correctly engaged in her duties.” McDowell said it was the intention of the court to impose 12 months in jail on Grantham Sr., and she understood that was not part of the plea agreement offered by the prosecutor’s office. McDowell told Goulooze he could speak to his client about the court’s intention. After several minutes in discussion, Goulooze informed McDowell that Grantham Sr. was rejecting the plea agreement and would face a jury of his peers. A trial date was set for June 4. The Sept. 11 incident, as clarified in court last week, occurred when a Barry County Deputy arrived at the Middleville home (in response to the 911 call) and told the subject, who was outside the residence, that he was under arrest. The subject resisted and retreated into the house, dragging the deputy with him. The subject’s mother allegedly attacked the deputy, and the three of them fell to the floor. The father, who was sleeping, came downstairs and also assaulted the deputy. During the altercation, the suspect’s father allegedly punched the deputy in the face multiple times. All three members of the family were assaulting the deputy when the son reportedly tried to take the deputy’s gun from her holster. The deputy then used a Taser, a five-second burst of 50,000 volts, to subdue the father. Prior to the arrival of other officers, Grantham Jr., the initial suspect, fled on foot. The deputy held the mother, father and a younger brother at gunpoint until backup arrived. The deputy suffered bruises and injured ribs. Grantham Jr., 18, was sentenced for assaulting, resisting or obstructing a police officer, causing injury. He was ordered to serve 12 months in jail, with credit for 194 days served. He was ordered to pay $1,698 in costs and serve 60 months on probation. The last three months of his jail sentence will be suspended upon successful completion of drug court. He is to have no contact with the victim and must not display any harassing, intimidating, threatening or assaultive behavior. His parent’s home is not an approved residence. Grantham Jr. also must pay $50 a month toward assessments after being released from jail. A charge of attempting to disarm a peace officer and a second charge assaulting, resisting or obstructing a police officer, causing injury, were dropped. The mother who called police, Lisa Marie Grantham, 46, was sentenced for assaulting, resisting or obstructing a police officer, causing injury. She was ordered to serve six months in jail, with credit for one day served. She must pay $1,198 in costs and serve 60 months on probation. The balance of her jail time will be suspended upon successful completion of four months on a tether. She must have no contact with the victim and pay $75 a month toward court assessments. POLICE BEAT Fish Hatchery Park vandalized Climbing equipment stolen from vehicle Hastings Police were dispatched to Fish Hatchery Park March 20 on a report of damage to a storage building. Hastings Department of Public Works employees discovered graffiti spray painted on the inside of the building’s walls. Numerous ceiling tiles had been pulled down, as well. Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to call the Hastings City Police Department, 269-945-5744. Hastings Police took a report March 21 of a larceny from a motor vehicle. The victim told police his vehicle had been parked in several areas throughout the city, and a large amount of tree-climbing equipment and tools were missing from his vehicle. Anyone with information about this thefts encouraged to call the Hastings City Police Department, 269-945-5744. Someone is shopping for gift cards A woman reported to Barry County Sheriff deputies March 19 two attempts by someone to apply for a credit card in her name. She had received two email messages from Discover Card thanking her for her application. She told deputies she had never applied. The woman said she had called Discover, but they would not talk to her without a police report. Deputies provided her with a complaint number and contacted Discover in Delaware. Company representatives said they did not feel the case pointed toward identity theft, but possibly attempts to receive free gift cards through Discover promotions. Most of the information on the application did not match up with the victim’s. The case is currently inactive. Bird and fish are doing fine Hastings Police responded to a domestic assault complaint March 20 on West Woodlawn Avenue. Officers spoke with the victim who said his girlfriend had gone to his house, assaulted him and attempted to kill his bird. He said the 49-year-old woman walked into his apartment screaming that he had been cheating on her, grabbed his arm and started to squeeze and pinch his arms, causing him to bleed. The victim said she threatened to kill his bird and knocked over his fish tank as she left his residence. When officers made contact with the woman at her residence, she began yelling at them, saying she was not going to jail. After a brief struggle, she was taken into custody for domestic violence. Alcohol was reported as a factor in the assault. Mother denies accusations by daughter Nashville Police and Barry County Deputies responded March 23 to a reported domestic situation. According to the report, a daughter asked her mother to borrow the car in order to buy diapers for her 11-monthold son. The mother refused, and the daughter became upset. During the ensuing argument, the mother asked the daughter to leave the house. As the daughter was texting someone requesting a ride, the mother allegedly began yelling and chasing the daughter around the living room. Reportedly, the 40-year-old mother followed her daughter into a bedroom, tackled her and pinned her to the bed and attempted to hit her in the face. The daughter said she was able to free herself and call 911. The mother told deputies her daughter had threatened to punch her, and that is why she pinned her down. She denied hitting her daughter. The report was sent to the prosecutor’s office for review with a warrant request for domestic violence against the mother. Hastings business broken into Hastings Police are investigating a breaking and entering at Precision Auto Body on Railroad Street March 22. The owner of the business was contacted after the business alarm was activated at 1 a.m. and told the alarm company not to notify the police. When the owner arrived for work the next day, it was discovered the business had been entered. The only items missing from the business were some hand tools that had been inside a Dumpster near the business. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to call Hastings City Police, 269-945-5744. Barry County Sheriff Deputies and Barry Township Police were dispatched March 22 to a shooting incident on North Avenue near Bellevue. A woman was reportedly shot in the knee during the incident and was being treated when deputies arrived. They armed themselves with long guns and approached the suspected residence by vehicle. A Michigan State Trooper soon arrived. Deputies reported three white men standing on the porch and approached the residence on foot with their weapons ready. The three subjects were asked to put their hands in the air. Reportedly, one of the men (later identified as the suspect) yelled to officers the gun used was near the fire pit about, 75 yards from the men. The three men complied with a deputy’s request to kneel with their hands behind their heads. All subjects were handcuffed, then the trooper retrieved the man’s Glock .40 caliber handgun from near the fire pit. No additional victims or suspects were found during a search of the residence. The 46-year-old suspect, a Holland resident told deputies he had purchased the property through the Barry County Courts, and the injured woman was the former property Mistrial motion denied in Keiper case by David DeDecker Staff Writer Despite his contention that County Prosecutor Tom Evans deliberately led a witness to speak about prohibited subject matter, defense attorney David Gilbert was stonewalled last week in his attempt to have a Feb. 15 first degree murder verdict against Jason Lee Keiper overturned. Gilbert argued his motion for a mistrial in Barry County Circuit Court March 23 before Judge Amy McDowell, based on Evans’ questioning of witness Trooper Kelly Linebaugh. Gilbert contended that Evans posed a question that led Linebaugh to violate a court order by revealing Keiper’s previous criminal conduct, prior jail record and previous drug use. Keiper was found guilty of killing his stepgrandfather, Ralph Lee Edwards, 81, of Delton, with a hammer and has been in the Barry County Jail since his arrest in March 2011. In the contended testimony, the trooper started to make a statement about the defendant being in prison for 10 years, but was stopped by Evans. Any mention of Keiper’s criminal history was not to be mentioned during the trial. Gilbert stated the trooper’s testimony was heard twice, once during live testimony and again during the jury’s review of recorded testimony. Gilbert noted the jury was out for a full day, and after hearing the recorded testimony again, came back with a guilty verdict after 35 minutes. “I believe the testimony was totally predjudicial, resulting in a prejudicial verdict in this case, which would require a mistrial,” said Gilbert. Evans spoke to each allegation and said there was no intent to have the witness speak about court-prohibited materials. He spoke of where the prosecution intended to go with its line of questioning. “He [Linebaugh] said he [Keiper] spent 10 years, mostly,” Evans told Judge McDowell. Evans reminded the court that was all that was said, and then cited other cases where much more was said about being in prison. He compared Linebaugh’s statement to those made in other cases and said there was no basis for a mistrial. Gilbert’s other allegation was that during the trial, testimony mentioned his client “being high” during the arrest, and cited a similar case where a mistrial was granted. Evans contended in that case, the prosecution had goaded the witness into testifying about prohibited materials. Evans said he did not intentionally lead or goad the witness into mentioning the defendant was high. “That was not what was going on here,” said Evans. Gilbert said, “In this case, the prosecution was absolutely told ‘You will not go there,’ and they went there anyway ... In this case, your honor, this was not harmless error. [Evans] knew he wasn’t supposed to go somewhere, and he went there.” McDowell asked Gilbert to comment on Evans’ statement contending the defense’s line of questioning opened the door during cross examination. At that point, Gilbert asked to hear Trooper Linebaugh’s testimony again. With numerous sentencings that morning, McDowell said the court would return to the mistrial motion later in the day and listen to Linebaugh’s testimony. At the end of the day, the Banner was informed that McDowell had denied Gilbert’s mistrial motion. “I found the prosecutor to be negligent, but the conduct was not intentional,” said McDowell. owner. According to the suspect, the woman and her family had been threatening him over the past month. He told officers that day the woman had been continually driving back and forth in front of the property squealing tires and yelling obscenities. He was trying to clean up the property with the two other men. The man said the woman had driven into the driveway at a high rate of speed, almost hitting one of the men. The man said that was when he went to his vehicle and got his handgun. The woman was driving through his property and stopped about 20 yards from him. He told deputies he raised his gun and yelled for the woman to stop, hoping she would leave the property. The woman yelled profanities and made an obscene gesture. She continued to drive toward the man, so he shot once into the vehicle’s radiator. When she failed to stop, he shot at the windshield. She continued to drive toward him, forcing him to move out of the way of the vehicle. He shot several more times at the vehicle as it drove past him and off the property. At that point, he called 911. While officers were interviewing the suspect, the woman was taken to a Battle Creek hospital for treatment. When questioned there, she was uncooperative and refused to provide a statement. After officers discussed the preliminary evidence with the county prosecutor, the man was taken into custody on charges of felonious assault. The case is open pending further investigation. Statewide drunk driving crackdown continues into April More than 160 law enforcement agencies in 26 counties will continue stepped up drunk driving enforcement through April 2. The enforcement initiative began March 13 to coincide with St. Patrick’s Day and the National Collegiate Athletic Association basketball tournament and is being paid for with federal traffic safety funds administered by the Office of Highway Safety Planning. “This is an exciting time for college basketball fans. OHSP wants to make sure it isn’t a tragic time, as well,” said Michael L. Prince, OHSP director. “Be sure everyone has the opportunity to root for their team by designating a sober driver or calling a cab for a safe ride home.” This is the first time OHSP incorporated an extended spring drunk driving crackdown into its traffic safety efforts. In the past, March drunk driving efforts have focused only on St. Patrick’s Day. A five-year review of crash data indicates both alcohol use and lack of seat belts play a significant role in fatal and serious injury crashes throughout March and into early April. Last year during the NCAA basketball tournaments timeframe, March 15 to April 4, law enforcement officers arrested 2,215 motorists for drunk driving; 613 of those people were charged under the state’s high bloodalcohol content law. In Michigan, it is illegal to drive with a BAC of .08 or higher, although motorists can be arrested at any BAC level if an officer feels the driver impaired. Under the state’s high BAC law, motorists face enhanced penalties if a first-time arrest is for a .17 BAC or higher. For a list of planned enforcement times, dates and locations, visit www.michigan.gov/ohsp. COURT NEWS Gary Lee Harps, 45, of Plainwell was sentenced for operating or maintaining a laboratory involving methamphetamines. Harps was ordered March 22 to serve 12 months in jail, with credit for 12 days served. He must pay $1,948 in fines and serve 36 months on probation. Harps must by $125 per month toward costs after being released from jail. The last two months of his jail sentence will be suspended upon successful completion of drug court. A charge of possession of marijuana was dropped. Michael Andrew Delcotto of Hastings was sentenced March 22 for failure to pay child support. Delcotto, 44, was ordered to serve six months in jail, with credit for 80 days served. He must pay $37,502 which includes $36,054 in restitution. He also must serve 60 months of probation. Jail time will be suspended upon compliance with the current Friend of the Court order. Delcotto must pay a minimum of $1,000 by June 1. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 For Sale National Ads Business Services AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is deceptive, fraudulent or might otherwise violate law or accepted standards of taste. However, this publication does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the quality of goods or services advertised. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made in any advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you ask for money in advance of delivery of goods or services advertised. PROFESSIONAL BASEMENT SERVICES: waterproofing, crack repair, mold remediation. Local/licensed. Free estimates. (517)2905556. ELIMINATE HIGH HEATING BILLS- while doing something good for the environment. Central Boiler Classic OUTDOOR WOOD FURNACES. Buy NOW & save up to $1,145! Call SOS your “Stocking Dealer” Dutton, MI 616-554-8669 or 616915-5061 Estate Sale ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. Recreation WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are interested in leasing acreage RICK TAYLOR’S DETAIL for this years deer season. WORKS. Hours 8am-5pm, Call (269)795-3049 Monday-Saturday. Trust a professional with 44 years Business Services experience. (269)948-0958. BOOKKEEPING SERVICES Personal * Self-Employed * Small Business Payroll * Billing Accounts Receivable * Accounts Payable PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: General Ledger All real estate advertising in this newsWeekly * Monthly * Quarpaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act terly * Annually which collectively make it illegal to Call today! (269)420-5714 advertise “any preference, limitation or Automotive discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 DARREN’S TREE SERVICE: old, dead, dying or just in the way. 20 years plus climbing experience. Offering cut up, removal of debris, lot clearing. Licensed and insured. Call (269)6232518 or (269)823-7134. PROFESSIONAL BASEMENT SERVICES: waterproofing, crack repair, mold remediation. Local/licensed. Free estimates. (517)2905556. Help Wanted 25 DRIVER TRAINEES Needed NOW! Become a driver for Werner Enterprises! Earn $750 per week! No experience needed! Local CDL Training! Job ready in 15 days! 1-877-649-2697. DRIVERS: Need Home Time, Miles? Dedicated Home Daily! NEW Sign on Bonus-$1000! CDL-A, 1 yr. OTR. MTS: 800-748-0192 x208/214. LOOKING FOR SEASONAL truck driver for summer, multi axle. Must have CDL Class/Tanker endorsement. (269)969-9453 �Page 14 — Thursday, March 29, 2012 — The Hastings Banner All-Barry County wrestling team led by state champ by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The local wrestling teams were still some of the best around during the winter of 201112. Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity wrestling team and Lakewood’s varsity wrestling team both won conference championships. TK edged Hastings and Caledonia, who tied for second place, to win the O-K gold Conference title. Lakewood won its dual with Corunna in the Capital Area Activities Conference White Division, but had to share the championship with the Cavaliers after a runner-up finish at the conference tournament. Lakewood was the only local team to lift a trophy during the postseason though, winning Garrett Hyatt a district championship in Division 3. Barry County’s schools sent ten wrestlers to the Palace of Auburn Hills during the first weekend in March for the Individual State Finals, and four of them earned medals including Lakewood senior Garrett Hyatt who was the 285-pound state champion in Division 3. That made him the third Viking heavyweight to win a state championship since 2006. Every one of the county’s teams was repre- Chris Poland sented at the individual state finals, with medals also going to Maple Valley junior Cash Flower and Thornapple Kellogg freshman Chris Poland and senior Adrian Foster. Foster and Lakewood freshman Jordan Bennett, another individual state qualifier, both would have liked a little better finish at the Palace, but it was still an amazing season for both wrestlers who swept through the regular season and the first two rounds of the state tournament without loss. Here is the 2011-12 All-Barry County Wrestling Team, as chosen by their coaches. Wrestling Cash Flower BIG Banners for your Special Event! Free Home of the Brave e Thanks to th OME WELCOME H MICHAEL! OUR OWN MVP • Birthdays • Anniversaries • Graduations • Weddings • Reunions Congratulations Aaron Banners can be output in full color on bond stock, photo paper, heavy cover stock, canvas or plastic materials! 2x6 ft. Banner $ 95 19 $ 2495 as low as 2x8 ft. Banner as low as SAME DAY SERVICE ON MOST BANNERS! Decorative Mailbox Rent for just $ 25 FULL COLOR 20 Invitations & Announcements priced as low as $ 2495 Great for weddings, anniversaries, birthdays & Graduation Open House! FREE DOUBLE PRINTS with every order now thru March 30 Let Printing Plus help you get a professional look to your Senior wallets! 9 wallet size to a page SENIOR PHOTOS $ from 95 4 (additional text copy extra) 1351 N.Broadway (M-43) Hastings 269.945.9105 OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:30 - 5:30 103 Chris Poland, Thornapple Kellogg: The Trojans’ freshman 103-pounder compiled a 30-13 record this season. He was the 103pound champion at the O-K Gold Conference tournament. He finished off the year by placing eighth at the Division 2 Individual Finals. Aaron Williams, Hastings: A sophomore, Williams finished the year with a 35-10 record. Williams was the runner-up at 103-pounds at the O-K Gold Conference tournament. 112 Austin Davis, Maple Valley: Davis had a great season for the Lions, finishing the year with a record of 36-9 and a spot in the individual regionals. Davis was the Kalamazoo Valley Association champion at 112 pounds. Zach Wilcox, Hastings: Wilcox was the runner-up at 112 pounds at the O-K Gold Conference Tournament this year. He was one of two Saxon regional qualifiers, and finished the season with a record of 33-12. 119 Ryan Flynn, Thornapple Kellogg: Flynn was a regional qualifier this season thanks to a runner-up performance at his team’s Division 2 Individual District Tournament. He compiled a record of 28-10. Austin Kietzman, Lakewood: A regional qualifier as a freshman. Kietzman ended the year with a record of 33-10. 125 David Case, Hastings: Case placed fourth in the 125-pound weight class at the O-K Gold Conference tournament. Nick Flynn, Thornapple Kellogg: Flynn placed third in the 125-pound weight class at the O-K Gold Conference Tournament this season. He was a regional qualifier who finished the season with a 31-12 record. Dylan Shoup, Lakewood: Shoup finished his senior season with a record of 27-4. Unfortunately, half those losses came at his team’s Division 3 Individual District Tournament. Shoup was the CAAC-White champion this season at 125 pounds. 130 Tyler Dempsey, Delton Kellogg: Delton Kellogg’s lone state qualifier this year, he finished his senior season with a record of 44-8. Dempsey was the KVA champion at 130 pounds. Paul Haney, Thornapple Kellogg: A junior, Haney finished the season with a record of 23-9. He was the O-K Gold Conference champion at 130 pounds this winter. Adrian Foster 135 Jeremy Innes, Lakewood: Innes finished the season with a record of 17-14. He was the runner-up at 130 pounds at the CAAC-White tournament this winter. Austin Sensiba, Thornapple Kellogg: The junior 135-pounder had a solid season for the Trojans. Joey Siska, Hastings: Siska finished the season with a record of 28-21. He was the third-place finisher at 135 pounds at the O-K Gold Conference tournament. 140 Jordan Bennett, Lakewood: A freshman, Bennett was undefeated until taking the mats at the Division 3 Individual State Finals at the Palace of Auburn Hills. Bennett won conference, district and regional championships on his way to a final record of 39-2. Nate Iveson, Thornapple Kellogg: The Trojan senior ended his high school wrestling career at the Division 2 Individual State Finals. He finished the year with a record of 26-19. 145 Oscar Cardosa, Thornapple Kellogg: A senior, Cardosa was a regional qualifier who compiled a record of 30-6. Cardosa was the O-K Gold Conference champion at 145 pounds. Stephen Kendall, Hastings: The runnerup to Cardosa at 145 pounds in the O-K Gold Conference this season. Kendall compiled a record of 25-20. 152 Nick Briggs, Lakewood: Briggs was a regional qualifier this season, finishing the year with a record of 29-13. He was the third-place finisher at 152 pounds at the CAAC-White championship tournament. Cash Flower, Maple Valley: Flower, a junior, earned his first state medal this season placing eighth in Division 4’s 152-pound weight class. He finished the year with a record of 38-14. He was the runner-up in the 152-pound weight class at the KVA championship meet. Cole Gahan, Thornapple Kellogg: Gahan was the O-K Gold conference champion at 152 pounds this season, and ended the year as a regional qualifier. He compiled a record of 33-9 this season. Chase Huisman, Hastings: The runner-up to Gahan at 152 pounds in the O-K Gold Conference. Huisman was captain for the Saxons as a junior this winter. 160 Kenny Cross, Hastings: The Saxons’ lone state qualifier this season, Cross ended the year with a record of 45-7. Cross was the O-K Gold Conference champion at 160 pounds. Garrett Phelps, Lakewood: A sophomore, Phelps ended the year with a record of 24-11. He was second in the 160-pound weight class at the CAAC-White tournament. Cody Ybema, Thornapple Kellogg: Ybema was the runner-up to Cross in the O-K Gold Conference this season. A senior, Ybema finished the year with a record of 22-12. Area girls do well at DU for KCC Women’s softball team A handful of local softball players helped the Kellogg Community College Women’s Softball team to a spilt in its set against the Davenport University Varsity and JV softball teams Thursday. Freshman Tara Harding, a 2011 Hastings High School graduate was 2-of-4 with an RBI in her team’s 11-7 loss to Davenport’s top team. The KCC squad also includes fresmen Sarah Hendrickson from Lakewood and Tiffani Allwardt from Maple Valley. Hendrickson was 2-for-3 in the loss, and Allward was 1-for-3 at the plate with an RBI. The KCC team moved its record 7-4 this spring with the two contests. The KCC girls topped the Davenport JV team 9-0, with Allwardt recording a single and two RBI and Harding going 2-for-3 with a double and two RBI. 171 Dan Dykstra, Thornapple Kellogg: A junior who earned his first trip to the individual state finals this season, Dykstra ended the year with a record of 34-13. He was the runner-up in the O-K Gold Conference at 171 pounds. Markus Temple, Lakewood: Temple finished his sophomore season with a record of 21-14. 189 Jack Tromp, Lakewood: A regional qualifier this season, he finished with a record of 30-13. Peter Westra, Thornapple Kellogg: A junior, Westra finished the year with a record of 27-12. He finished third in the O-K Gold Conference at 189 pounds. 215 Austin Koehl, Thornapple Kellogg: A senior, Koehl was the O-K Gold Conference champion at 215 pounds. A late season injury took him out of the state tournament. Lars Pyrzinski, Lakewood: Pyrzinski had his state tournament run slowed by a late season injury as well. He compiled a record of 35-8 as a junior this winter, qualifying for regionals as an individual. He was the 215-pound conference champion in the CAAC-White. Alejandro Reid, Maple Valley: Reid only got to wrestler for a portion of the season, but he made the most of his time on the mat. He earned a spot in the Division 4 State Finals, finishing the year with a record of 18-9. He was the 215-pound champion in the KVA. 285 Adrian Foster, Thornapple Kellogg: Undefeated heading to the Palace of Auburn Hills for the Division 2 Individual State Finals, Foster finished fifth in his weight class there with a final record in his senior season of 47-2. Foster was the O-K Gold Conference champion at 285 pounds, and won district and regional championships by pinning everyone he faced in those tournaments. Garrett Hyatt, Lakewood: Hyatt capped off a fine high school wrestling career by winning the championship in the 285-pound weight class at the Individual State Finals, pinning Dundee’s John Marogen in the first period of the championship match. Hyatt was 46-3 this season, and was the CAAC-White champion at 285 pounds as well. Vikes win doubles matches, Quakers win the singles Lakewood’s varsity girls’ tennis team split its season-opening dual with Lansing Eastern 4-4 at Lakewood High School Monday. The Vikings won all four doubles matches. The Quakers won all four singles matches. Neither team won a set in any of the four matches it lost. The Viking duo of Heather Kennedy and Mariah Krikke won 6-3, 6-0 at first doubles. Lexi Fetterman and Katherine Altoft won 60, 6-2 at second doubles. In the third doubles match, Heather Rice and Mary Wernet scored a 6-3, 6-4 win. At fourth doubles, Lakewood’s Whitney Beglin and Louise Gross won 6-4, 6-2. The Vikings weren’t too far behind in the top two singles matches. Eastern’s Andrea Kessler topped Lakewood’s Hannah Morris 6-2, 6-3 at first singles. In the second singles match, the Quakers’ Rachel Jackson pulled out a 6-4, 7-5 win over Sunshine Young. Lakewood is off now until April 10 when it heads to Haslett for another non-conference dual. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 29, 2012 — Page 15 Saxon tennis hopes experience helps this spring by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Saxons want to be the “best of the rest” in the O-K Gold Conference this spring. The top half of the league standings will be tough to crack as Forest Hills Eastern, Grand Rapids Catholic Central and South Christian all have some good players back from squads that finished in the top ten in the state in their respective divisions a year ago. Caledonia also always fills its line-up with solid players from top to bottom. That leaves Hastings to fight it out with Wayland, Thornapple Kellogg and Ottawa Hills for the fifth spot in the league standings. With some talent and some experience, the Saxons are hoping to win those battles. The Hastings group is led by returning first singles player Hannah Smith, a senior. She’s joined in the varsity line-up once again by classmates Sarah Thornburgh, Sarah Sleevi, Erica Krouse, Kara Cuncannan and Tessa Johnson. Fellow seniors Ashley Musculus and Meg Travis should also find spots in the varsity line-up this spring. The 2012 Hastings girls’ tennis team. Team members are (front from left) Tessa Johnson, Sarah Sleevi, Ashley Musculus, Jenna Nedbalek, Sarah Thornburgh, Hannah Smith, Kara Cuncannan, Erica Krouse, Jordin Willson, Meg Travis, (middle row) Sarah DeBolt, Hannah LaJoye, Clare Green, Laura Shinavier, Tara Rowe, Abbey VanDiver, Mackenzie Monroe, Natalie Anderson, (back) JV coach Jenny Johnston, Hannah Tebo, Kourtney Dobbin, Emma Anderson, Kelsi Harden, Hannah Wilgus, Kaitlin Allan, Abby Campbell and Autumn King. Missing from photo is varsity head coach Julie Severns. Other varsity returnees include juniors Kelsi Harden, Emma Anderson and Kaitlin Allan. “With our strong upper classmen support, we have ladies at all levels that will be able to fill the doubles positions,” said Saxon head coach Julie Severns, who’s entering her fifth season leading the Hastings girls. “The experience that our doubles teams will have will help win matches.” Severns added that the strength of the singles line-up will also help her team compete in matches. Behind Smith there are a few youngsters who will fill singles spots, including sophomore Tara Rowe and freshman Abbey VanDiver. “Our team goal this year is to finish strong and to win more matches than last year,” said Severns. “Each position will hold a key to making the season successful.” The Saxons open their season April 12 at home against Lakewood. The O-K Gold Conference season begins April 16, when the Saxons play host to Grand Rapids Catholic Central. Saxons looking to get back into top half of Gold by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Before the Saxons start battling their O-K Gold Conference rivals, they’re battling themselves in practice - trying to earn spots in the line-up. “We have more depth at several positions then I can remember in a number of years,” said Saxon head coach Marsh Evans, “and that creates competition within practice and therefore brings out the best in our players. It’s a good situation to have, and hopefully it translates into our kids being competitive on game days.” There may be a little extra incentive to be competitive on game days this spring, after an 11-6 overall record and an 8-12 O-K Gold Conference mark that left them in fifth place in the league last year. Evans said it was the first time in six years that the team finished below the top half of the conference standings. To finish in the upper half and contend for the title they will have to have solid seasons from a number of players. The ball team is led by returning letter-winners Mitchell Kolanowski, Jake Swartz, Michael Eastman and Keith Garber. Kolanowski hit .389 a year ago, driving in 18 runs and stealing 13 bases in 13 tries. He earned all-conference honors a year ago. EYE & E.N.T. SPECIALISTS CENTER 1761 W. M-43 Hwy, Hastings (269) 945-3888 M-66 TIRE 7775 Saddlebag Lake Rd. (M-66) Lake Odessa The 2012 Hastings varsity baseball team. Team members are (front from left) coach Caleb Case, Nick Replogle, Isaac Smith, Brandon Redman, Mitch Kolanowski, Jake Swartz, Josh Trowbridge, manager Nevin Horn, (middle row), Devin Greenfield, Ethan Mahmat, John Parker, Alex Pohl, coach Doug Garrett, coach Gary Phillips, (back) head coach Marsh Evans, Mike Eastman, Keith Garber, David Pierce, Alex Nichols, Travis Sixberry, Tyler Stolicker and Jon French. Swartz led the Saxon pitching staff in wins last year as a sophomore, and will also see DEWEY’S AUTO BODY 1111 W. Green, Hastings www.deweysautobody.com MacLEOD CHIROPRACTIC 327 W. Apple St. Hastings time in the infield during his junior campaign. Evans said Eastman will be relied upon BOSLEY PHARMACY “A Full Service Independent Pharmacy serving Hastings & Barry County” 118 S. Jefferson, Hastings 945-3495 PRECISION AUTO BODY REPAIR 819 E. Railroad St. Hastings heavily at both shortstop and as a pitcher. Garber also returns to the infield and to the COLEMAN AGENCY 312 E. Court, Hastings 945-3412 “Since 1908” HASTINGS 616-374-1200 948-3170 948-9472 Lake Odessa • Freeport • Dimondale Mulliken • Pewamo • Westphalia GOLE DENTAL GROUP KING’S ELECTRONICS & APPLIANCES STATE FARM INSURANCE PROGRESSIVE GRAPHICS Dr. Daniel Gole ~ Dr. Jason D. Gole Dr. Philip D. Gole 121 W. Woodlawn, Hastings 130 W. State, Hastings 948-2244 945-4284 TRADEMARK REALTY, INC. WELTON’S HEATING & COOLING 305 S. Broadway, Hastings 945-0514 www.TradeMarkRealty.com WHITE’S PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO 131 W. State St, Hastings 945-3967 401 N. Broadway, Hastings 945-5352 MILLER REAL ESTATE 149 W. State St, Hastings 945-5182 BROWN’S CARPET ONE & CUSTOM INTERIORS FILLMORE EQUIPMENT 2900 N. M-43 Hwy, Hastings 945-9526 “Good Luck Saxons!” 945-9249 AT HOME REAL ESTATE GIRRBACH FUNERAL HOME 50 N. M-37 Hwy, Hastings 945-3550 “Work with the people who make you Feel At Home” PERFORMANCE PLUS QUICK LUBE 430 W. State St, Hastings 948-8558 BRIAN’S TIRE & SERVICE 235 S. Jefferson, Hastings 945-9549 GEE & LONGSTREET LLP Attorneys at Law 607 N. Broadway, Hastings 945-3495 RENEWED HEALTH CHIROPRACTIC & MASSAGE THERAPY 400 W. State St, Hastings 269-945-2203 HASTINGS NAPA 122 N. Jefferson Rd. Hastings 948-9696 616-891-8104 100.1 FM Hastings 269-795-4230 945-3252 632 E. Main St. Caledonia 945-2963 4525 N. M-37 Hwy, Ste B, Middleville 328 S. Broadway, Hastings SEIF CHEVROLET BUICK PONTIAC 122 W. State St, Hastings FIRST REHAB 115 S.Jefferson St, Hastings 948-8001 HODGES JEWELRY 221 N. Industrial Park, Hastings 945-2479 Paul Peterson 1215 N. Broadway, Hastings line-up where he batted .333 last year with 13 RBI. Other returnees include senior infielders Tyler Stolicker and Alex Nichols, and senior outfielder John Parker. The Saxons are also looking for contributions from juniors Travis Sixberry and Nicholas Replogle at catcher and pitcher, as well as David Pierce, Brandon Redman and Jon French at other spots throughout the lineup. There isn’t a whole lot of experience on the mound behind Swartz, but Evans said he expects some solid performances. “Our kids played a lot of summer baseball, which has helped and we have great confidence in the eight or nine kids that we can put out there,” said Evans. “It’s just getting them through the early-season jitters and developing confidence in themselves.” The Saxons will be challenged this season, not only in the O-K Gold Conference contests but in the non-conference slate where they’ll face teams such as Battle Creek Lakeview, Zeeland East, Jenison and East Kentwood. The O-K Gold Conference season begins when the Saxons head to Caledonia for a double header April 10 at Caledonia. EDWARD JONES RADIO SHACK OF HASTINGS HASTINGS CITY BANK 614 W. State St, Hastings “Safe & Sound Since 1886” 150 W. Court St, Hastings 269-945-4880 945-2401 Mark D. Christensen, AAMS Financial Advisor 421 W. Woodlawn, Hastings ICS TRAVEL LITTLE CAESAR’S 128 E. Court St, Hastings 269-945-3553 www.icstravel.com Home of the Hot & Ready Pizza! 216 N. Broadway, Hastings 948-2824 945-5110 These sponsors help provide coverage of local sports in this paper. Let them know you appreciate their committment to our community! �Page 16 — Thursday, March 29, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Saxon girls’ soccer led by a group of 14 seniors by Brett Bremer Sports Editor A group of 14 seniors that has spent years and years playing together will lead the Hastings varsity girls’ soccer team this spring. “This group of seniors has been playing together for many years, and they understand how each plays so it will be fun to watch them in their last year before they all go their separate ways,” said Saxon head coach Sarah Smith who is entering her tenth season leading the program. “We will be challenged by many other teams, but I feel these girls are ready for it.” The Saxons will look to overcome challenges with a strong midfield leading the way. Jennifer Feldpausch returns for her seniors season. She had 14 goals a year ago, and will anchor the midfield along with fellow seniors Haley Wagner and Morganne Hubbell. Hubbell had seven goals and four assists in 2011, while Wagner had two goals and eight assists. Fellow seniors Jennifer Jarman, Amber Nurenberg and Janel Pifer will leadership and attitude in the midfield as well for the Saxons. Rounding out the midfield group are Amber Dunkelberger and Haley Perkins-Craven. While the midfield will be key to the offense, so will the group of attackers up front which includes seniors Dani Meredith, Emily Macqueen and Dallas McKay. Meredith had three goals and ten assists last spring. “We are expecting some solid offensive opportunities from this group,” Smith said. The defense will once again be anchored by senior sweeper Ashley Nurenberg and goalkeeper Breonna Sinclair. “They both played outstanding last year in those positions so we are looking for a great year again this year,” Smith said. The defense also sees the addition of seniors Maicee Herrington, Katie Coenen and Megan Denny, as well as juniors Tori Schoessel and Jordan Morrison and goalkeeper Collyn Shaeffer. The Saxons will look to improve on their 612-1 record from a year ago. “The key will be the mental game,” said Smith. “They know how to play soccer and they play it well if they are mentally focused. That is a challenge for me as a coach to figure out how to mentally prepare them for the games.” Smith doesn’t see many easy games on the conference slate this season. Caledonia, Forest Hills Eastern and South Christian are expected to battle for the top spot once again. “Wayland and TK no longer are easy games, both those schools have come a ways in the past couple years,” Smith said. The Saxons open conference play at Caledonia April 18. Hastings opened its season going 0-2 at its The 2012 Hastings varsity girls’ soccer team. Team members are (front from left) Bre Sinclair, Collyn Shaeffer, (second row) manager Ally Owen, Ashley Nurenberg, Megan Denny, Dallas McKay, Morganne Hubbell, Jennifer Jarman, Janelle Pifer, Haley Perkins-Craven, Amber Dunkelberger, Jenny Feldpausch, Haley Wagner, (back) coach Sarah Smith, Emily Macqueen, Tori Schoessel, Sammy Ackels, Katie Coenen, Dani Meredith, Jordan Morrison, Maicee Herrington, Amber Nurenberg, manager Francisco Lopez, coach Ellie Devroy. own invitational Saturday, then fell to Otsego Tuesday at home. They’ll continue non-con- ference play after spring break, at Rogers April 11 and at home against Pennfield April 13. Leapers and long-distance runners lead HHS girls’ track by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Saxons are good at getting off the ground. Hastings varsity girls’ track and field coach Brian Teed sees the jumps and hurdles as being a couple of his team’s strengths this spring. A couple of juniors lead the way in those events, Nichole Redman in the hurdles and Rachel Quillen in the jumps. They’ll also both take part in the sprints for the Saxons. Redman was a state qualifier a year ago in the 300-meter low hurdles. Leah Czinder, another junior, will look to get off the ground and continue her climbs in the pole vault again. Other key returnees for the Saxons include senior Amber Myers in the springs, and distance runners sophomore Trista Straube and junior Amanda Sarhatt. Teed said he also expects the distance and middle distance runners to be some of the most successful for the Saxons. Where the team is lacking is in the sprints and the throws. A couple of youngsters will look to add some speed - freshman Christy Clark and sophomore Mara Speer. Teed said his team is also expecting solid performances from varsity newcomers like freshman Kaylee Lumber in the throws and senior Alexis Hickey. The Saxons were 2-5 last spring in the O-K Gold Conference and 3-5 overall in duals. They’ll look to improve on those marks this spring, but the O-K Gold Conference will be tough again. Forest Hills Eastern should lead the way a year after placing sixth at the Division 2 State Finals. The Hastings girls opened their season at the indoor meet hosted by Grand Valley State University Saturday. Quillen tied for second in the high jump by clearing 5 feet, and took 12th in the 60-meter hurdles with a new school record time of 10.0 seconds. Redman and Straube also set indoor school records. Redman did it with her sixth-place time of 50.2 in the 300-meter hurdles, while Straube did it with her ninth-place time of 5 minutes 31.2 seconds in the 1600-meter run. The Saxon girls were scheduled to return to action at Harper Creek Wednesday, and are off until after spring break when they open OK Gold Conference duals at Caledonia April 12. The 2012 Hastings varsity girls’ track and field team. Team members are (front from left) coach Jamie Murphy, Francesca Zecchi, KC Hunt, Rachel Rimer, Amanda Sarhatt, Maria Palacio, Leah Czinder, Haleigh Pool, Courtney Rybiski, Shelby Vandermel, Cherie Kosbar, Alexandrea Shumway, Corrie Osterink, Christine Maurer, Grace Bosma, Selinda Arechiga, Sarah Banister, Amanda Wilgus, Jillian Bailey, Lexi Hickey, (second row) coach Andy Keller, Julia Meneghel, Trista Straube, Mara Speer, Marissa Branham, Brandi Ellwood, Brieanna Sheldon, Taylor Warner, Kaylee DeMink, Amber Myers, Caprice Lowinski, Deanna Turashoff, Kaylie Lumbert, Christy Clark, Erin Goggins, Abby Laubaugh, Hannah Anderson, coach Lin Nickels, head coach Brian Teed, (back) Katy Garber, Nichole Redman and Rachel Quillen. Missing from photo is Melanie Schwab. Saxon boys’ track team swells to more than 60 by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Having more than 60 boys out for the varsity boys’ track and field team bodes well for the Saxons’ future. It’s a young group, but head coach Andy Keller said he is looking forward to his guys gaining a lot of experience this spring. The group of experienced athletes that do return are led by senior Jacob Comer who went to the State Finals in three events last year, the 110-meter high hurdles, the 300meter intermediate hurdles and the pole vault. “That’s a very big accomplishment, especially for a junior,” said Keller. “He will be one of our top point scorers this year.” Also back are junior sprinter Chad Reedy who was a member of the Saxons’ state qualifying teams in the 400-meter and 800-meter relay races. Junior Ben Kolanowski returns to lead the Saxons in the middle distance races, sophomore Jake Miller is back to be one of the team’s top runners in the mile, and also returning are senior thrower Jakob Bower and senior pole vaulter Joey Siska. Those guys helped the Saxons to a 2-4 overall record last season, but the Saxons expect better this year having lost three close matches including one by just a third of a point. The top newcomers this spring include sophomore sprinter Stephen Kendall and freshmen Jason Slaughter, Cole Harden and Ronnie Collins. Slaughter will compete in the sprints and in the pole vault, while Harden and Collins will look to help strengthen the Saxons in the distance races. Hastings was scheduled to head to Harper Creek Wednesday and will return to compet- The 2012 Hastings varsity boys’ track and field team. Team members are (front from left) head coach Andy Keller, coach Jamie Murphy, Ronnie Collins, Matt Banister, Mark Rabe, Aaron Baker, Norberto Hernandez, Chancelor McArthur, Dominic McArthur, Jacob Pratt, Patrick Murphy, Garrett Bowers, Chad Reedy, Jacob Comer, Brandon Johnson, Matt Johnson, Ben Kolanowski, Joe Siska, Tyler Owen, Adam Post, Trevor Zimmerman, Mitchel Brooks, James Lee, coach Lin Nickels, coach Brian Teed, (second row) Chance Miller, Cole Harden, William McKeever, Brandon Gray, Jacob Miller, Karan Bhakta, Caleb Sherwood, Ryan Carlson, Jake Zimmerman, Addison Millard, Stephen Kendall, Callan Lenz, Mike Pewoski, Chase Williams, Carter Bennett, Jake Dalman, Austin Clow, Jake Westers, Cody Fuller, George Lane, Terrick Smith, Jordan Wheeler, Daegan Mix, Logan Clements, (back) Connor Hays, Brandon Secord, Tony Gibson, Corey Robins, Jacob Norris, Damon Carter, Ethan Haywood, Jakob Bower, Devin Bancroft, Nick Denniston, Jared Bailey, Jason Slaughter, Jade Brinkman, John Dinges, Mike Racine, Casey Goggins and Zach Clow. (269) 945-3431 one of the teams with the best chance at dethroning the Scots who will be in their final season in the conference. The Saxons first home meet of the season will be the Hastings Relays April 14. Hastings golfers hope to be in the top half of Gold again by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Matching last springs results would mean it was another solid season for the Saxon varsity boys’ golf team. “We hope to finish above the middle of the conference and improve throughout the season to peak for MHSAA tournament play,” said head coach Bruce Krueger, who’s entering his 16th season leading the Saxon boys. That is exactly what Hastings did last spring, finishing fourth in the O-K Gold Conference and reaching the regional round of the state tournament. Danny Buehler earned an individual spot in the State Finals last year, and is back to lead the way in his senior season. Most of the other tournament experience lies in fellow senior Taylor Klotz. Senior Dylan Thurman looks to contribute this spring as well. Behind the seniors though, there is a lack of competitive varsity experience, according to Krueger. He says his team needs to improve on its focus and its confidence. The group of youngsters looking to add WOMEN’S HEALTH FIRST, PC BARRY COUNTY LUMBER 225 N. Industrial Park Dr. Hastings ing after spring break when they open the OK Gold Conference season at Caledonia April 12. The Fighting Scots will be looking to start the defense of their league title from a year ago. Keller said he thinks Wayland will be their talents to the varsity scorecard this season include senior exchange-student Fredrik Isgard, juniors Logan Barrett, Chris Feldpausch, Travis Matthews and Tom Peurach as well as sophomore Aaron Williams. Finishing higher than the middle of the OK Gold Conference standings will be tough, with teams such as Forest Hills Eastern, South Christian and Grand Rapids Catholic Central expected to lead the way in the league. South Christian and Forest Hills Eastern both qualified for the state finals a year ago, South in D3 and FHE in D2. The Sailors were the D3 runners-up behind Jackson Lumen Christi. Hastings opens the season at the Delton Kellogg Invitational at Mullenhurst Golf Course April 12. The O-K Gold Conference season begins when Caledonia hosts a league jamboree at Broadmoor Country Club April 17. The lone home match on the schedule for the Saxons is a league jamboree which they’re hosting at Hastings Country Club May 3. HASTINGS ORTHOPEDIC CLINIC 10051 W. Green St. Suite G100, Hastings 1761 W. M-43 Hwy, Suite 2, Hastings 1108 W. State St. Ste 3, Hastings www.hoc-mi.com 840 Cook Rd. Hastings (269) 945-0922 (269) 948-PEDS (7337) (269) 945-8080 (269) 945-9520 Laura M. Doherty, MD & Laura J. Kota, MD These sponsors help provide coverage of local sports in this paper. Let them know you appreciate their committment to our community! �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 29, 2012 — Page 17 Saxons look to replace five all-conference girls by Brett Bremer Sports Editor There will be a lot of changes for the Saxons around the diamond this spring, but there won’t be any changes at short stop. Senior Katie DeVries is back for her senior season, her third season at shortstop for the Saxons. She batted .446 last season. Hastings had five all-conference performers graduate last spring, but DeVries leads a solid returning core. Senior pitcher Laken Meade returns. She was 11-4 last year, and will re relied upon more heavily this season. Also back are senior first baseman Erika Rosell, senior center fielder Lexi Clow, senior third baseman Farrah Salazar and senior catcher/second baseman Anna Cooley. Rozell hit .368 last year and Clow .389. “With the players we have returning, along with some very solid players we have added from last year’s JV team, I expect this team to be right up in the top tier of teams in the O-K Gold Conference,” said Saxon head coach Doug Griggs, who’s entering his fifth year as the team’s head coach. The solid additions include sophomore catcher Katy DelCotto, junior outfielders Marissa Adams, Stevie Pennepacker and MacKenzie Keller-Bennett, and junior infielders Shelby Price, Brianne Whiteman and Liz Guernsey. “I’m looking forward to a fun and exciting season,” said Griggs. Meade’s 11 wins accounted for half of the 22 victories by the Saxons a season ago. Hastings earned a third-place finish in the OK Gold Conference in 2011. The Saxons hope to be battling Wayland, Caledonia and South Christian for one of the top spots once again this spring. League play begins April 10 when the Saxons head to Caledonia for a double header. The Saxons first home games of the season will be a double header against Kelloggsville April 11. Saxon softball splits its first double header of the season The 2012 Hastings varsity softball team. Team members are (front from left) Lexi Clow, Anna Cooley, Katie DeVries, Erika Rozell, Farrah Salazar, Laken Meade, Becca Miller, (back) coach George Williams, Brianne Whiteman, MacKenzie Keller Bennett, Shelby Price, Stevie Pennepacker, Abby Prill, Liz Guernsey, Alexis Morgan, Marissa Adams, manager Anna Bowers and head coach Doug Griggs. Missing from photo is Katy DelCotto. Hastings falls in three home contests to start the season The Hastings varsity girls’ soccer team is 0-3 in its first contests of the 2012 season. The Saxons fell twice at their own Hastings Invitational in Baum Stadium at Johnson Field Saturday. Allegan topped the Saxons in a shoot out in their first game of the day, and then NorthPointe Christian bested the Saxons 2-1 in their final contest. “Allegan had one shot on goal and broke into our defensive end of the field only six times the entire game,” said Saxon head coach Sarah Smith. “We were in their end 90 to 95 percent of the time and just could not Hastings’ Brianne Whiteman steps up to scoop up a bouncing ball as a Maple Valley runner slides into the bag behind her during Thursday’s double header at Maple Valley High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Hastings’ varsity softball team opened the 2012 season by splitting a pair of contests with Maple Valley in Nashville Thursday afternoon. The host Lions took the night-cap 9-4, after falling in the day’s opener 10-1. Ashley Lesage had three singles and an RBI in the win for the Lions, while Kaitlyn Petersen had two singles and two stolen bases. Beth Richter pitched the Lions to the win. Lion head coach Mary Lesage also said that her team got awesome defense from center fielder Petersen and third baseman Timara Burd. The solid defensive play was nice after an opening game where the Lions made some poor decisions in the field to help the Saxons to the win. Alicia Johncock was hit with the loss for the Lions, despite throwing seven strike outs while walking just two. Ashley Lesage was 2-for-3 at the plate with a double and a single. She scored her team’s lone run, with the RBI going to Tesla Meade. Maple Valley also had McKaily Bodenmuller go 1-of-3 in the loss. Laken Meade pitched the Saxons to the win, and also went 3-for-5 at the plate. The Saxons’ Jennifer Jarman leaps in to clear the ball in the midfield during her team’s contest with NorthPointe Christian inside Baum Stadium at Johnson Field Saturday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Hastings’ Maicee Herrington (left) shields the ball away from a NorthPointe Christian defender Saturday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) “We have seen what we can do now, we just need to focus on the finishing aspect of the game and clean up some other minor things.” Otsego came to Hastings Tuesday and scored a 4-1 win over the host Saxons, getting two goals and two assists from Mikayla Cupp. Hastings is off now until after spring break. The Saxons head to Rogers Wednesday, April 11. 11-run sixth inning gets Saxons a win in first game Laken Meade pitches for the Saxons during her team’s double header at Maple Valley High School Thursday afternoon. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Delton Kellogg’s girls score lopsided win over Lakewood Brianna Russell notched a hat-trick as the Delton Kellogg varsity girls’ soccer team opened the season with an 8-1 victory over visiting Lakewood Tuesday. Delton Kellogg scored five times in the first half of the first half, with Kanoe Chaffee scoring her team’s first goal of the season just 7 minutes and 49 seconds in. Russell added her first goal a minute later, then 26 seconds after that Rachel Parker scored off an assist from Russell. Alea Hammond assisted on Russell’s first goal. Sara Rendon earned the assists on the Panthers’ final two goals of the first half, setting up Hannah Phommavongsa for one and Russell for her second of the game. get enough quality shots off. Their goalkeeper made several fantastic saves, which was the only reason we ended regulation in a 0-0 tie.” Hastings also controlled the play in its second loss. “(NorthPointe) challenged us a little more on defense,” said Smith, “and we ended up with a 2-1 lose which we’re not upset about considering that they made it fairly far in the state tournament last year.” Russell started the second half by scoring off an assist from Phommavongsa just 15 seconds in. Phommavongsa added her second goal, off an assist from Riley Smith, with 11:36 left to play and then Hammond capped off the scoring with 10:25 left finishing off an assist from Samantha Gonzalez. The Delton defense didn’t have to do much at the other end, as the Panther offense fired 28 shots at the Lakewood net. Carlye Hammond had three saves for Delton and Christy Gonzalez had one in her time in net. The Panthers are 1-0 and are off now until opening the Kalamazoo Valley Association season at Kalamazoo Christian April 11. Hastings exploded for 11 runs in the top of the sixth inning to score a 12-1 victory in the first game of its double header at Maple Valley Thursday. Game two was called due to darkness. The two teams were tied at 1-1 heading into the sixth. There were two big hits in the Saxon rally. Brandon Redman had a basesloaded triple and four batters later Travis Sixberry drilled a grand slam home run over the left field fence. Jon French and Michael Eastman also had RBI singles in the inning, while Mitchell Kolanowski earned an RBI with a bases loaded walk. Eastman had three hits in the game, a double and a pair of singles. Jake Swartz scored the game’s first run for the Saxons, reaching on a walk. He stole second and came home on a hit by Nicholas Replogle. The Lions tied the game 1-1 in the bottom of the fourth inning. Replogle earned the win for the Saxons, striking out five while walking none and allowing just three hits in the complete game effort. Game two was tied 2-2 when it was called after three innings. Singles from Kolanowski, Eastman and Redman, as well as a bunt from Swartz helped the Saxons score two runs in the opening inning of that game. Redman and David Pierce pitched for the Saxons. David Pierce pitches for the Saxons during the darkness shortened second game at Maple Valley Thursday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) 77566668 �Page 18 — Thursday, March 29, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Motorcycle procession honors life of Dowling man Nearly 300 motorcycles make up the funeral procession for Ronald Armour. The “single spur ceremony” leaves the funeral home as part of a 15-mile procession to the Dowling home of Ronald Armour’s parents. by Bonnie Mattson More than 300 motorcycle comrades attended the funeral of Ronald Paul Armour Monday in Hastings. Armour, a 45-year- old Dowling resident, died March 20 as a result of a motorcycle accident. His parents, Ronald A. and Mary Armour, said the attendance at the service was “even 77566722 2012 The procession is led by a special motorcycle hearse owned by A. Jay Howard of Battle Creek, whose company has been part of approximately 50 similar ceremonies. SATURDAY MARCH 31ST • • • OPEN HOUSE DAY • • • BATTLE CREEK & CLIMAX STORES - 6AM TO 1PM WBCK Live Radio Remote at 6am • Saturday Morning Show Pet Show ~ Garden Show ~ Door Prizes ~ FREE Coffee & Donuts • All Organic Products 20% OFF 8am-1pm 10% OFF 6am-8am • Mole Max #6248 5,000 sq ft 6am-8am $9.99 • 8am-1pm $11.99 • Crabgrass Control #6271 5,000 sq ft 6am-8am $6.99 • 8am-1pm $8.99 #6276 19,000 sq ft 6am-8am $23.99 • 8am-1pm $26.99 • Organic Garden Soil #6215 100% Organic 6am-8am $5.99 • 8am-1pm $7.49 • Black Oil Sunflower Seed 50# 6am-8am $23.99 • 8am-1pm $24.99 • Thistle Seed 10# bag 6am-8am $8.99 • 8am-1pm $9.99 more than we could have imagined. Our son Ronald would help anyone, anywhere, anytime. He was a wonderful son.” He also raised three stepsons who called him Dad and will miss him dearly, said his parents. Amour was a site manager for Power Link in Detroit. The funeral service was unique to the motorcycle community, demonstrated by the use of a motorcycle hearse and the number of bikes in the funeral procession. The hearse was provided by Hometown Hearse Co. in Battle Creek. Owner A. Jay Howard purchased the hearse in 2009, and said he is honored to provide this service to families during a difficult time. Howard has two friends who assist him, serving as chauffeur for the procession, wearing white tuxedo shirts, string ties and leather vests. Howard said this was roughly the 50th “single-spur ceremony” he has provided. A single-spur ceremony is said to date back to medieval times when squires serving knights would remove the spurs from a fallen knight and wear them in his honor. The tradition has evolved through the years. In the 19th century, troopers of the U.S. Calvary often wore a spur in honor of a fallen comrade. Today, many of the new iron horsemen riding two-wheeled steeds will wear one spur in remembrance of a friend lost in a motorcycle accident. At a memorial service, a single spur is often presented to the family in remembrance of the deceased. Steve Lauer, of Lauer Family Funeral Home-Wren Chapel, reported that approximately 350 people attended the service inside the funeral home, while many chose to stay outside with their motorcycles and listen to the service via outdoor speakers. “When a motorcycle enthusiast passes away in a motorcycle accident, their service is always well attended by their own club, as well as many other motorcycle clubs,” said Lauer, who added that the funeral home provides this type service once or twice a year. After the service, the procession left the funeral home and traveled to Armours’ home in Dowling where a luncheon was held. The Barry County Sheriff’s Department assisted in the 15-mile procession. A police escort leads a nearly 300-motorcycle funeral procession from Hastings to Dowling on Monday afternoon. Product representatives will be on hand with gardening & lawn care advice LOTS OF IN STORE SALES FOR YOU - CHECK OUT THE CLOSE-OUT TABLES! BIRD FEEDERS & HOUSES • PET SUPPLIES & TREATS • LAWN & GARDEN MARCH 31 - APRIL 9 AT BATTLE CREEK & CLIMAX STORES Bug Blaster 6.99 12-12-12 Fertilizer $ 50# bag .............................. 13.75 Holly Tone $ 4# bag..................................... 3.50 Bayer 24 Hr. Grub Killer 11.5# bag #6246..................... 5000 sq ft bag #6239 Sale $17.99 -$3.00 mail-in rebate BIRD FEED Economy 14 $ 99 Check out our close out table - up to 12” square Regular $4.99 50 OFF % Climax 14325 “OP” Ave. 269-746-4286 Hamblin Battle Creek H Farm Bureau N Dickman Rd Battle Creek 295 Hamblin Ave. 269-962-4025 M-66 Jackson Exit 92 . 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April 14th 9 to 1 .....Garden Soil Testing Bring a sample to the Battle Creek store April 28rd 9 to 1 ........Lawn Soil Testing Middleville considers ‘trail town’ designation Would be first in the state by Julie Makarewicz Staff Writer Middleville could become the first official North Country Trail Association trail town in Michigan. “To me it’s a win/win situation. All we have to do is say we’re willing to do this and they [the trail association] put information about Middleville on the national website,” said Jean Lamoreaux, events coordinator for the Village of Middleville. The North Country Trail, part of the National Park System, is a 4,600-mile trail that starts in upper New York, passes through Pennsylvania and Ohio and into Michigan. It continues through Michigan’s Upper Peninsula westward, ending in North Dakota. In Middleville, the trail includes part of the Paul Henry Thornapple Trail along the Thornapple River. It continues north into the Barry State Game area and then heads on into Kent County and Lowell. Lamoreaux told Downtown Development Authority board members this week that the village has no real obligation nor cost to become a Trail Town. “It’s a way to connect people using the trails to local businesses and places,” said Lamoreaux. She said hikers often look for places along the trail to stay, eat, shop and find services, including pharmacies, grocery stores, hard- ware stores and mechanical services. Lamoreaux said this is only the first step toward becoming a trail town. An agreement would need to be approved by the village council and the North Country Trail Association. Ron Sootsman, administrative vice president of the Chief Noonday Chapter of the North Country Trail, said he thinks it would be good for Middleville and a good way for people from outside the area to get connected. “And the great thing is you get to set the model. You would be the first official trail town in Michigan,” said Sootsman. “If it promotes our town, it’s a good thing,” said Amy DeVries, DDA member. “Our information will be on the national website, and it may bring more people to the area.” More information will be discussed at future village council meetings. Keep your friends and relatives INFORMED! Send them The BANNER To subscribe, call us at... 269-945-9554 � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-04-05.pdf 866cc7102f853ffa7dc36028478f3713 PDF Text Text Commissioners seek to clarify confusion Where have all the leaders gone? Delton spring sports teams highlighted See Story on Page 2 See Editorial on Page 4 See Stories Starting on Page 14 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 14 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, April 5, 2012 Keltech Inc. one of Michigan Oil and gas leases being NEWS signed across Barry County 50 Companies to Watch BRIEFS Gold River returning to music showcase Gold River, which mixes country music with a little gospel, will make its second appearance at the Community Music Showcase at 6:45 p.m. tonight, April 5, at the Thomas Jefferson Hall, 328 S. Jefferson St., Hastings. The free showcase concerts are offered the first and third Thursday of each month. Bernard group to learn about Native American artifacts The Bernard Historical Society will conduct its monthly meeting at 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 10, in the media room of Delton Kellogg Middle School. Todd Walterpaugh from All Points Covered will tell about his company, which focuses on the collection and preservation of prehistoric Native American artifacts. The public is invited to attend the meeting and bring any artifacts they would like to have examined by Walterpaugh. Trail committee will discuss expansion The trail committee of the Barry County Parks and Recreation Board will make a presentation on expansion of the Barry County Thornapple Trail into Hastings Charter Township at the monthly township meeting Tuesday, April 10, at 7 p.m. The trail committee will listen to public input and answer questions about the proposed pedestrian trail. The public is welcome to attend this meeting at the township hall on River Road, as well as the monthly meetings of the Barry County Parks and Recreation Board, which meets the third Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. in the community room of the Barry County Courts and Law Building in Hastings. Christian mystics and sodium topics of ILR The Institute for Learning in Retirement has announced classes that will be offered in April. Beginning Wednesday, April 11, Rev. Michael Anton will be teaching a class entitled “A Look at Medieval Christian Mystics.” Among the mystics discussed will be Julian of Norwich, Catherine of Siena, and Teresa of Avila. The class will meet from 1:30 to 3:30 Wednesdays, April 11 through May 16, but there will be no class on April 18 and 25. Bonnie David, retired nutrition instructor, will present “Sodium Savvy” Thursday, April 12, from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. She will discuss strategies for reducing sodium intake and explore the role of potassium. A sample of some low-sodium and high-potassium foods will be included in the program. All classes will meet at the Kellogg Community College Fehsenfeld Center on West Gun Lake Road, Hastings. Fee information may be obtained or registration made by visiting the office at the KCC Fehsenfeld Center or by calling the ILR Coordinator Connie Dawe at 269948-9500, ext. 2803. Since December, people with job titles of “independent landmen” from companies with names such as Pteradon Energy, Michigan Basin Resources, Bishop Land Service and West Bay Geophysical have been canvassing Barry County selling oil and gas leases. But state officials and lawyers are warning sellers to beware of unknown details in the agreements they sign and of possible dire environmental consequences from their decision to sell. As of March 20, more than 134 oil and gas leases have been signed by property owners here, and Barry County Register of Deeds Darla Burghdoff said she expects to see many more in the upcoming weeks. In comparison, the office had 14 deeds involving oil leases, including four affidavits of nonproduction, in all of 2009. Since January 2011, documents regarding oil leases on property from every township in the county have been recorded. Liverpool Production Company has signed leases with property owners in Carlton, Hastings, Castleton and Woodland townships. Michigan Basin has oil leases in Thornapple, Rutland, Carlton, Irving, Yankee Springs and Maple Grove townships. West Bay has leased property in Rutland, Johnstown, Yankee Springs and Barry townships. Jordan Development Company has signed leases in Assyria, Baltimore, Hope, Irving, Johnstown, Yankee Springs, Carlton, Maple Grove, Orangeville, Prairieville and Woodland townships. These are just some of the companies that have signed oil leases here in the past 16 months, according to the Barry County Register of Deeds website. A June 2010 Michigan State University Extension document advises landowners to “seek professional assistance in reviewing the lease terms prior to signing a lease because provisions contained in leases may be unfamiliar and will not necessarily be in the interest of the landowner ... Negotiating an oil and gas lease requires legal knowledge, foresight and common sense. Negotiation of an equitable lease requires the assistance of an experience oil and gas attorney. It is not advisable to sign a lease if your understanding of the provisions is not clear.” The MSUE paper speaks of both parties agreeing on rights, privileges and obligations of each party in the lease. Leases may be very complex and the property owner may, according to MSUE, be at a disadvantage when dealing with an experienced landman or oil company. “When you sign an oil and gas lease, you have essentially ‘sold’ a part of your property,” states the document. Leases are bought and sold. MSUE officials recommend getting verbal agreements in writing. It also recommends paying close attention to sections of leases labeled Granting Clause, Surface Operations, Surface Damage, Duration of the Lease, Extension of Primary and Secondary Lease Terms, Royalty Clause, Post Production Costs, Pooling, Assignment Clause, Warranty Clause, Force Majure and Lessee’s Right to Free Water/Gas/Oil. A lawyer, speaking at a March 26 information meeting in Comstock Park advised that property owners should think about possible installation of roads, pipelines, wastewater pools or disposal, increased noise, seismic exploration, crop damage, power and phone line installation and extracting and storage equipment installations. According to a recent National Resources Defense Council article, alarming stories are moving through the nation involving drinking water in areas where oil and gas companies have used hydraulic fracturing to extract resources. “Students at a high school outside of Fort Worth began complaining of nosebleeds, chest pains and a sense of disorientation while at school,” according to the NRDC article. “A group of mothers in a Denver suburb demanded answers after their families were struck with a host of mysterious illnesses ranging from asthma and migraines to nausea and dizziness. The well water of families in northeastern Pennsylvania suddenly turned brown, and [one boy] developed sores up and down his legs from showering. “The vast majority of the 75,000 wells drilled in the past five years across 30 states were fracked. As companies rush headlong to drill even more wells — often confounding local landowners with confusing leases and exploiting woefully inadequate state See OIL & GAS, page 2 Keltech Inc. in Delton, a manufacturer of energy-efficient electric tankless water heaters for commercial and industrial applications, has been recognized as one of the 2012 Michigan 50 Companies to Watch, an awards program sponsored by the Edward Lowe Foundation and presented by Michigan Celebrates Small Business. “We are thrilled with being chosen as one of Michigan’s 50 Companies to Watch,” said Ken Lutz, president and founder of Keltech Inc. “Starting as a small, family-owned company, we’ve been extremely passionate about the units we create and the technology developed within them. Keltech has several innovations to hang its hat on, and we look forward to the future.” “The Barry County Economic Development Alliance nominated Keltech as one of Michigan’s 50 Companies to Watch after having the opportunity to work with Keltech leadership through the Barry County Manufacturers Council and seeing firsthand the lean operations of a family-owned and locally grown company that is not only innovative in producing a state-of-the-art tankless water heater but has very strategically and diligently set their sights on growth opportunities while remaining true to their company culture,” said Valerie Byrnes, president of the Barry County Economic Development Alliance. “Keltech is a company with heart and a great example of what many small companies aspire to become.” Keltech, which was founded in 1987, will be honored at an awards ceremony during the eighth annual Michigan Celebrates Small Business event May 3 in Lansing. Companies making it to the Michigan 50 Companies to Watch list are said by the Lowe Foundation to be a remarkable group of second-stage companies. Defined as having six to 99 full-time-equivalent employees and generating $750,000 to $50 million in annual revenue or working capital from investors or grants, these companies form the backbone of Michigan’s economy. Winners were selected by Michigan-based judges from the banking, economic development, entrepreneurship development, industrial and venture capital communities. Lane closures on M-43 to begin soon Drivers can expect lane closures on the M43 bridge over the Thornapple River, starting Wednesday, April 18, according to Hastings Director of Public Services Tim Girrbach. He said Monday evening that repair work, which is being done by the Michigan Department of Transportation, is proceeding on schedule. MDOT will begin preliminary traffic work, putting up barriers and detour signs starting Monday, April 16. Crews will start removal on the east side of Broadway, which means traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction on the west side of the bridge. Once that work is completed, traffic will be switched to the east side of the bridge. “Earth work from Broadway and State Street on the south side of the bridge will include water main construction, and testing is scheduled to begin April 25 and run through May 15,” said Girrbach. “They expect to work on the storm sewer May 16 through June 25. They will work on replacing the road’s sand sub-base and do the curbs and walkways on the south side of the bridge at that time. The actual bridge work is scheduled to start at the end of June.” North/south traffic on Michigan Avenue already is being redirected to Broadway, while the bridge there is being replaced. Drivers north of the river are encouraged to follow the Michigan Avenue detour north to Woodlawn and south on Broadway. Motorists south of the river should go west on Apple or State streets,, north on Broadway to Woodlawn and then south on Michigan, if necessary. Hastings alum named DIII Coach of the Year Hope College men’s basketball coach Matt Neil, a 1978 graduate of Hastings High School, has been named the NCAA Division III Coach of the Year. One of 10 finalists, Neil was presented the Glenn Robinson National Coach of the Year award in New Orleans, site of this year’s men’s Division I Final Four, by the website www.collegeinsider.com. “With so many tremendous Division III coaches in our country, I’m humbled to represent Hope in such a way,” said Neil. “Then, to be at the banquet with all of those in attendance, it was a surreal experience, to tell the truth.” In his first two seasons as coach, Neil has led the Flying Dutchmen to back-to-back conference championships and appearances in the NCAA Division III championships. This year’s team posted a 27-2 record to improve Neil’s two-year mark to 50-9. The Dutchmen’s only two losses were to Division I program Western Michigan University early in the season and a 108-101 double overtime loss to Illinois Wesleyan in the second round of the Division III NCAA Tournament. In between, the Dutchmen won 23 straight ballgames. The coaching honor is presented annually to the top Division III men’s basketball coach. The award is named after longtime Franklin and Marshall basketball coach Glenn Robinson who has over 800 wins and is currently 12th on the all-time collegiate wins list. Neil was one of the finalists for the John McLendon National Coach of the Year award this season as well, an award which is presented annually to the top collegiate head State’s Tom Izzo, Kentucky head coach John Calipari, and eventual winner Horace Broadnax from Savannah State. Neil was also was named the NCAA Division III Great Lakes District Coach of the Year by the National Association of Basketball Coaches and www.d3hoops.com. think fourth or fifth grade, and he said, ‘Dad, someday I’m going to be a coach.’ It’s very interesting how he has never wavered on that.” Neil served as Hope’s junior varsity coach for nine years and was a varsity assistant coach with responsibilities for post players “To get this award, this honor, in a coach’s lifetime is very unusual. To get it in his second year is really a huge honor.” Larry Neil, father of coach Matt Neil Matt Neil, 1978 Hastings graduate who heads the coaching staff at Hope College, has been named Division III Coach of the Year. coach among the Division I, II, III, NAIA and JUCO ranks. Some of the other 16 finalists for that award this season included Michigan “It’s really something that is an award that should go to our entire institution, to the entire coaching staff, the families of the coaching staff, and to our players,” Neil said. Neil is the son of Larry and Jan Neil of Hastings. He has been on the coaching staff at Hope College since 1985, and was named head basketball coach there in 2010. “The overwhelming emotion of our family is we are really happy for him,” Larry said. “He spent a long time being an assistant coach. To get this award, this honor, in a coach’s lifetime is very unusual. To get it in his second year is really a huge honor. Ever since he was just a little guy, I can remember him coming back after a grade school game, I from 1995 to 2010, according to the college’s website. Neil and his wife, Kim, have four children. Kendra, a 2009 Hope graduate, is a kindergarten teacher in Tegucigalpa, Honduras; sons Logan and Grant are both Hope students and members of the basketball program; and daughter Ellary is a sophomore at West Ottawa High School. While in New Orleans for the Final Four weekend, Neil was able to attend a few basketball clinics, the Division I National Semifinals Saturday evening, as well as the Hyllard Champions Luncheon where all the conference champions from across the country, across all divisions are honored each year. �Page 2 — Thursday, April 5, 2012 — The Hastings Banner OIL & GAS, continued from page 1 regulations — all too often they are leaving devastation in their wake.” According to the National Center for Environmental Health, fracking has been nothing short of a ‘disaster’ for some communities. “The drilling industry and its political allies hide behind the fact that they are extracting natural gas, which is cleaner to burn than other fossil fuels,” says National Resources Defense Council President Frances Beinecke. “But ‘cleaner-burning,’ by itself, isn’t enough. We also must have safeguards in place to make sure that the production of natural gas is not poisoning our water and destroying our communities. Until then, we must say ‘no’ to fracking.” In a recent phone conversation with the Barry-Eaton District Health Department, Banner staff learned health department officials are aware of the leasing going on in the county and they are attending educational programs about the specific environmental impacts of drilling. Eric Pessell, environmental health services director for the health department, said his main concern is the safety of drinking water. The March meeting in Comstock Park was hosted by Michigan State University Extension and Michigan Farm Bureau. Another informational meeting will be held at Pierce Cedar Creek Institute May 1. According to a handout from the March 26 meeting, hydraulic fracturing, horizontal hydrofracking or fracking extracts methane gas held tightly in layers of shale rock deep underground using high pressure, water, chemicals and explosives to fracture or shock the shale. First, a vertical well is drilled into the shale rock layer at 5,000 to 10,000 feet. Then, drilling continues horizontally, on average one to two miles, through the shale layer in one or several directions off the first vertical drilling. Huge volumes of water, chemicals and sand — known as fracking fluids — are then injected under intense pressure. Explosives are used to create fissures or fractures in the rock, releasing the trapped methane gas which is then collected. Some of the toxic fracking fluid is pumped back up to the surface and re-injected. Some of the fracking waste remains underground in the well. As much as 70 percent of the fracking fluid can return to the surface along with the chemicals, toxic heavy metals, volatile organic compounds and sometimes radioactive elements. Drill cuttings and muds are toxic and buried in large drilling pits at the site or trucked to landfills. Fracking requires the use of massive amounts of water — sometimes more than seven million gallons per well, according to the NRDC. Water which is never returned to original waterways, groundwater, or basins. According to a U.S. Forest Service study, toxic fracking fluid has destroyed national forest lands. The 2011 study describes death of ground plants within two days and signs of tree death within 10 days. Maryann Lesert of Grand Rapids Community College also provided information on environmental and health concerns at the March 26 meeting. Her information stated that methane and ethane contamination of water wells was demonstrated by a Duke University study of Marcellus shale, with drinking water wells nearest fracking sites having highest concentrations of contamination. With methane known to leak into groundwater and water wells, fracking fluids could also leak into water supplies. The gas is also explosive. Lesert’s information also said fracking wells emit air pollution and at times poisonous gas. The U.S. House Committee on Energy and Commerce in April 2011 said 29 toxins and carcinogens are known to be used in fracking — chemicals such as benzene, toluene, xylene, and ethylbenzene, lead, methonol, 2- “The drilling industry and its political allies hide behind the fact that they are extracting natural gas, which is cleaner to burn than other fossil fuels. But ‘cleaner-burning,’ by itself, isn’t enough. We also must have safeguards in place to make sure that the production of natural gas is not poisoning our water and destroying our communities. Until then, we must say ‘no’ to fracking.” Frances Beinecke, National Resources Defense Council President butoxyethenal and diesel fuel. There are also proprietary or trade secret chemicals; 279 of 750 products used in fracking include secret, undisclosed chemicals. An energy bill passed during the BushCheney administration allows the toxins and secret chemicals to be used. In 2005, Congress passed and energy bill exempting the fracking industry from most environmental laws, including the National Environmental Policy Act, the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, the Superfund Law, and the Safe Water Drinking Act. Bills are being reviewed in the Michigan House of representatives that will allow gas industry-funded studies and regulation to continue. House Bill 5149 Water Withdrawal Bill makes the gas industry use the water withdrawal assessment tool, which is a computerized database. The WWAT does not protect water, it only measures the amount of water that can be taken in a particular area and then allows fracking. House Bill 5150 calls for a temporary moratorium on new horizontal frack wells located within the Utica and Collingwood shales until the fracking advisory committee makes recommendations. The advisory committee only have to finish the report, the State is not required by the bills to enact any of the recommendation, or change any laws before permits can be issued. House Bill 5151 initiates a study of fracking paid for by the gas industry and carried out by the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality and Department of Natural Resources. Both agencies derive partial revenue from the flow of gas from wells. An advisory committee is formed by the DEQ and DNR. A global and national debate has hit closer to home. Drilling and exploration for oil and gas — perhaps using the fracking method of extraction — may begin soon in Barry County. Publications such as the Wall Street Journal and Business Week are reporting on the environmental hazards being experienced in communities who were uniformed and lured by quick money — unaware of possible environmental hazards. The Rock Doc column in the March 15 Banner reported that recent earthquakes in northern Ohio were a result of fracking in the area. For more information on oil and gas leases and their possible impact on Barry County, call Pierce Cedar Creek Institute about the May 1 conference, 269-721-4470. It will be from 6 to 8:30 p.m. in the visitor center. The workshop will explain the Department of Environmental Quality regulations on oil and gas extraction, the environmental considerations, and oil, gas and mineral leases and considerations when negotiating a lease. A suggested $10 per household donation to help cover workshop expenses. Websites with more information on the topic are: www.msue.msu.edu/oilandgas, www.endocrinedisruption.com/home.php, www.banmichiganfracking.org, www.naturalgas.extension.psu.edu, and www.oil-gasleases.com. Charity golf tourney organizers seek grant recipients In keeping with its tradition of providing grants to help nonprofit organizations in Barry County, organizers of the ninth annual Bill Porter Charity Golf Classic is again seeking potential recipients. This year’s tournament, with the assistance of platinum event sponsors Hastings City Bank and Hastings Mutual Insurance Company, will be Friday, June 22, at the Hastings Country Club. In the past eight years, the event has distributed more than $225,000 to area charities which include Big Brothers Big Sisters, YMCA of Barry County, Green Gables Haven, Manna’s Market, Barry County United Way, Barry County Habitat for Humanity, Leadership Barry County and the Thornapple Arts Council. Proposals are required by Friday, April 20, from any interested 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that provides programs and projects in Barry County. A panel comprised of event representatives, Hastings City Bank and Hastings Mutual Insurance Company will select the top four proposals for funding, based on a successful demonstration of the organization’s importance to Barry County. Proposals are not limited to program or project costs. Each of the four selected charities will be required to have a display booth at the June 22 golf outing, complete with a voting box. Golfers will vote for their favorite charities, with the top vote-getter receiving 50 percent of the event’s proceeds. Second place will be awarded 25 percent of proceeds, third place 15 percent, and fourth place 10 percent. Each of the four charities also will be asked to recruit golf teams, provide event volunteers and obtain three hole sponsors as outlined in a participation agreement. Application requisitions and questions can be directed to Nancy Goodin, Hastings City Bank, 269-948-5579 or to Michelle Duits, Coleman Agency, 269-945-3412. Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads Confusion over proposal will get careful look by commissioners next week by Doug VanderLaan Editor In a confusing stumble through parliamentary procedure that capped a confounding Tuesday meeting, Barry County Commissioners voted to approve the recommendation of a revised sanitary sewer service agreement to cover the new 23-bed addition at Thornapple Manor — then questioned whether they should, or could, reconsider. Fortunately, as several commissioners noted, the vote occurred in a non-binding, recommendation-only committee of the whole meeting. Issues of reconsideration can take place when next week’s official meeting of the board will consider the recommendation approved Tuesday. “You’re not on the prevailing side;, it takes someone from the prevailing side to ask to reconsider,” Commissioner Robert Houtman told fellow Commissioner Ben Geiger after Tuesday’s 5-2 vote. Geiger, who, with Chair Craig Stolsonburg voted against the motion, had requested the reconsideration based “on the way the previous motion was passed,” likely referring to the confusing pre-vote discussion and the fact that Commissioner Joe Lyons had left the room briefly and was not present for the vote. Even Commissioner Dan Parker, who had voted on the majority side, was perplexed after Stolsonburg’s explanation that the sanitary agreement was in draft form and that final input and language was still needed and would be added from the City of Hastings and from Hastings Charter Township, partners in the original 2006 agreement that extended sanitary services to Thornapple Manor. The completed document would then go to the board of commissioners for final approval during the April 10 meeting. “But that wasn’t the motion, was it?” queried Parker. “The motion was to go ahead to the full board [with a complete and finalized document].” “The motion was to go to the full board with the way it’s written now,” Stolsonburg replied. Houtman said the vote was needed to allow James White, county attorney, the opportunity to gain input from the City of Hastings and Hastings Charter Township in order to put a complete document in front of the board for full approval April 10. White made no promises, however, instead mentioning several new considerations that could make a new agreement problematic. “An issue has been raised regarding whether the county should be paying money to the township for township-provided servic- es,” related White, pointing out that issues of ambulance and fire protection has been mentioned. Commissioner Howard Gibson, who said he attends Hastings Charter Township meetings, added that township officials and Supervisor Jim Brown had expressed thoughts that “there’d be more road usage and they wanted to be compensated for more traffic.” “He wants a payment of some sort; I don’t know how much,” confirmed White, citing a meeting last Wednesday in which fire protection for Thornapple Manor and for nonprofit organizations in Hastings Charter Township was mentioned. “There are services provided by the county that flow back to the township, too,” White followed up. “It would be great precedence for the county to forward special payments to other units of government for services.” Commissioners chafed at the possibility and questioned the need for Hastings Charter Township to even be involved in a sanitary sewage agreement between the county-owned Thornapple Manor and the City of Hastings. White confirmed that such a two-party agreement could be formulated but, because the Hastings city attorney prefers an amendment to the original 2006 agreement of which Hastings Charter Township was a part, all participating municipal units must sign off on any amendments — all of which made the eventual vote to approve the recommendation even more puzzling, especially since the additional sewage capacity will not be needed until construction is complete, and that the original 2006 agreement remains in place until a new one is approved. “In terms of what you have in front of you, this is going to change,” White said in prefacing his sewer agreement remarks. “It’s a formatting thing, but I think we owe it to everybody that, when we redraft it, everybody has a chance to look at it and comment on it. I’d prefer, and I’m sure you’d prefer, that I don’t walk in with it, put it front of you and you haven’t seen it. I think it makes sense to put it off.” Additional time will be needed for other phases of the project. White also reported, while asking for approval of a resolution to award bond sale of the $6 million project costs, that the recent bid sale had come in at $6.5 million. Though White said the additional $500,000 would be taken from the Thornapple Manor budget, it was also reported that in two project areas, flooring and mechanical, plans were redrawn and contractors asked to rebid. Despite the project estimate bobble, commissioners unanimously approved the recommendation that the full commission approve the bond sale at next week’s meeting as they did to award subcontracts and a designation of the Barry County Building Authority as an agent for the county on the project. In other action, the board approved the following recommendations to next week’s official board meeting: • A directive to the airport commission that it reopen and consider a new contract with Airport Manager Mark Noteboom to redefine an increase in hours and duties and to consider a pay compensation increase. • An authorization that the drain commission to spend more than $10,000 on the Algonquin Lake Dam and box culverts to align it with directives established by the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act. • A renewal of the peer review services agreement and the monumentation surveyor agreement. Geographic Information Technician Rosemary Anger told commissioners that a state mandate requiring research of every point setting in Barry County since 1830 will consume a major portion of the surveyor’s office time and resources for the remainder of the calendar year. Anticipating the state mandate, Anger reported that the office has used its budget to stock up on physical equipment and will require no additional resources. • A consideration of signage proposals made by Building and Grounds Supervisor Tim Neeb. Neeb presented data, cost estimates and computer simulations of office identification signs proposed for the courthouse, the courts and law building, and the former library building. • A personnel proposal from Clerk Pam Jarvis, establishing a half-time position as deputy circuit court clerk, a job whose description includes jury coordinator which is currently handled by the deputy clerk for vital records. The budget currently allows for one full-time position. If the new part-time position becomes shared by another department, each department would be responsible for the benefit package. It will also allow the jury board budget to more accurately reflect the cost of the jury system and move to that budget from the clerk’s budget beginning in 2013. The board of commissioners next meets Tuesday, April 10, beginning at 9 a.m. in commission meeting chambers at the Barry County Courthouse. Key Club students honored by Hastings Kiwanis Club During the March 28 Hastings Kiwanis luncheon, two Hastings High School Key Club members were honored as Students of the Month. Christine Maurer, daughter of Tom and Kathy Maurer, is a junior. She has been in Key Club for three years and was elected secretary of the club this year. Maurer has participated in Trick-or-Treat for Unicef, helped with snowball dance setup, read to kindergartners and packs backpack meals once a month for needy students. She attended a Leadership Summit through Key Club. She has played volleyball for three years and is in her third year of track. Maurer has been a member of 4-H for nine years, and is presently the treasurer of her 4-H Club. She serves as treasurer of the Hastings High School Business Professionals of America where she has competed at regional and state levels and qualified for national competition later this month. Maurer elected to donate her $50 cash award to the Ronald McDonald House at Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital. The Kiwanis March Student of the Month is Brian Graybill, who is a senior at Hastings High School. He chose to donate his $50 award to Love Inc. Graybill has been a member of Hastings Key Club for four years where he has participated in preparing backpack meals and Trickor-Treat for Unicef. He has been in band for four years, including marching band and a steel drum band, where he has played at jazz festival, State Grounds and Summerfest. Graybill has been a member of the Varsity Singers for two years, singing at jazz festival and in New York City at Carnegie Hall. He has participated in high school musicals for four years, and had a lead role in “White Christmas” and “Anything Goes.” Graybill also played varsity tennis for four years. He has worked on church-related ministries and participated in the Relay-for-Life cancer walk. Roberta Krouse (left) of the Hastings Kiwanis Club awards the March Student of the Month to Brian Graybill (second from right). He is joined by his parents, Sandy and Dan Graybill. Kiwanian Roberta Krouse (left) awards the February Student of the Month to Christine Maurer (second from right). She is joined by her parents, Kathy and Tom Maurer. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, April 5, 2012 — Page 3 Orangeville Township board wary of lake association request Commercial Bank in Hastings will host the April 12 Business After Hours. Pictured are (from left) Tim Kelley, Sue Archambeau, Angie Musser, Sheryl Klous, Nancy Buehl, Sara Bolo and Chamber of Commerce President Valerie Byrnes. Commercial Bank to host April Business After Hours The Barry County Chamber of Commerce will hold the April Business After Hours event at Commercial Bank Thursday, April 12, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Commercial Bank will be showcasing its new facility at 629 W. State St. in Hastings. The monthly networking event offers chamber members, guests, community leaders, customers and colleagues the opportunity to learn more about Commercial Bank and how its financial services can benefit business or organization. As a local leader in small business and residential lending, Commercial Bank is committed to being a community bank. “My staff and I are excited to show everyone our new facility,” said President Tim Kelly, “and we look forward to seeing everyone on April 12.” “The Chamber’s Business After Hours events continue to be the premier opportunity to network with local business owners and community leaders with an emphasis on making new business contacts and encouraging future business connectivity,” said Valerie Byrnes, chamber president. “Creating a social environment in a business setting allows for an easy-going yet productive connectivity amongst businesses and community members.” Names of attendees of the event at Commercial Bank will be entered into a drawing for door prizes including $25 in Chamber Barry Bucks, which can be spent at any of more than 150 Chamber member businesses throughout the county. To RSVP, call Lynn Lundstrum, 269-945-2454 or email lynn@mibarry.com. The Barry County Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours Events are the second Thursday of every month from 4:30 to 6 p.m., with the exception of this month’s event which will run from 5 to 6:30 p.m. The May Business After Hours Event will be May 10 at YMCA Camp Algonquin. For a complete schedule of future events, visit the Chamber’s website at www.mibarry.com/tourism/calendar. by Fran Faverman Staff Writer Jim Riehl, president of the Gun Lake Protective Association, presented to the Orangeville Township Board of Trustees Tuesday evening a request for township participation in a contract with the Barry County Sheriff’s Department for extra patrols on Gun Lake. Riehl began his presentation explaining that the association needed the township to participate as an intermediary because the sheriff’s department cannot contract with a private entity like the GLPA but only with other governmental agencies. Two contracts would be involved; the first is the township with the department and the second is the township with the GLPA. Riehl said his group is willing to pay the $2,000 up front to the township and have the township pay the invoices from the department. He added that this year the GLPA board of directors had decided to invest a small amount and see how it worked. The extra patrols would be especially important for safety reasons, he said, during the fireworks display to keep boats a safe distance from the launching site. Closing his remarks, Riehl said the proposed arrangement has been used on several lakes in Oakland County and on a lake in Kent County. Sgt. Julie Jones, commander of the Barry County Marine Patrol, indicated that the request for extra patrols by the GLPA was not a reflection of any budgetary issues affecting the department. She noted that her division is funded primarily by a grant from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Orangeville Township Trustee Linda Ribble asked, “How do you pick the hours to patrol? Is it standard?” Jones responded, “Gun Lake gets the majority of the hours. It has averaged 500 hours; other lakes also need to be patrolled. There are over 300 lakes in Barry County; only some get patrols.” Township Supervisor Tom Rook entered the discussion, asking about the source of the funds Riehl said the money is from dues and donations and go into the GLPA general fund. Alluding to the proposed use of $2,000, Rook continued, “Are you at liberty to use those funds for that purpose?” The response from Riehl was the bylaws give the board full authority. Township Trustee Robert Perino, referring to the recent newsletter from the association, said dues were used for the directory, maintaining a fishery, fireworks and the natural shoreline protection project with the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality. “I agree with the concerns of the Yankee Springs Township board,” cottoned Perino, “which I understand asked for more information, asking the people for this new activity by the GLPA.” Focusing on the relationship Orangeville has with Yankee Springs, he said, “We share zoning on the lakefront with them.” Carefully saying that he was expressing only his opinion, Perino commented, “I’m not sure I want to do this.” He said Yankee Springs Township Clerk Janice Lippert had said she was willing to post a public notice for a meeting to discuss the issue. He suggested a special meeting of the GLPA membership or a survey to provide a signal that the extra patrols are what the membership wants. Resident Mark Paradowski asked who decides the hours for marine patrols. Perino said that was not what the township was being asked; the township is being asked to act as the banker. Riehl objected, saying, “We’d never get anything done if we had to go to the membership for everything. It would push it into next year.” His remark refers to the annual meeting which this year is scheduled for Aug. 11 at the Gun Lake Community Chapel; it is the only meeting of the membership scheduled yearly. He added that only about 100 people show up from a membership of about 1,022 families. “I feel there should be input from the membership,” said Alex Liceaga, association Hastings student count down by 40 by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer When the student count was taken in February Hastings Area Schools was down by 40 students — 20 of them spread among the middle school and the district’s four elementary buildings; the remaining 20 were from the high school. Hastings High School Principal Tim Johnston said he is not worried about the numbers. “We had some transient population, and a number of students transferred to the alternative education program,” he said. According to Johnston, two students dropped out, and one was removed from the building. One student is now being homeschooled. Three students moved out of the district and four transferred to neighboring districts — one to Barry County Christian, another one to Delton Kellogg and two to Maple Valley. The remaining nine students transferred to the alternative education program. “The alternative education program allows them to get caught up if they are struggling academically,” he said. “There are multiple other reasons for students to transfer to alternative education, such as flexible hours that students can fit into their work schedules.” School districts receive state aid based on their blended fall and winter student counts. Students in the alternative education program are counted as full-time equivalent students, so the district will still receive funding for those students. May election’s registration deadline is Monday ballot by mail must submit their application by 2 p.m. Saturday, May 5. Absentee ballots can be obtained in person anytime through 4 p.m. Monday, May 7. Voters who request an absentee ballot in person May 7 must fill out the ballot in the clerk’s office. Emergency absentee ballots are available under certain conditions through 4 p.m. on election day. As a reminder, voters will be asked to provide identification when at the polls. Additional election information can be found at www.Michigan.gov/elections. HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, April 5 — Movie Memories celebrates Hollywood hunks with John Wayne’s “The Quiet Man,” 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, April 6 — preschool story time enjoys stories the reader loves, 10:30 to 11 a.m. Monday, April 9 — computer class tackles mousing and more, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 10 — toddler story time listens to books about being on the go, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30; open chess club, 6 to 8; genealogy club meets, 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, April 11 — Terrific Tweens have a blast with kites, 4:15 to 5:15 p.m. Call the library for more information about any of the above, 269-945-4263. Two-hundred blue and silver pinwheels are planted Monday morning to symbolize the freedom children should have to not be harmed. Pinwheel gardens are being planted all over Michigan by other child abuse prevention organizations. Here, (from left) Kayla Wickham, Isabelle Wickham, Damien Gibson, Jacquie McLean of the Great Start Parent Coalition, and Karen Jousma of the Family Support Center of Barry County pose in front of the pinwheel garden at Tyden Park in Hastings. The Family Support Center of Barry County (formerly Child Abuse Prevention Council of Barry County) is moving this week into the Barry Community Enrichment Center on North Broadway in Hastings (former First Presbyterian Church). Area Locations to purchase the Hastings Banner! Hastings: One Stop Shop (BP) (M-43 North) Tom’s Market Superette Family Fare One Stop Food (BP) (M-37 South) Hastings Speedy Mart (Shell) Bosley Admiral Penn-Nook Gift Shop P.B. Gas Station (W. State St.) BP Gas Station (M-37 West) Xpress Mart Family Fare Gas Station Middleville: Speedway Middleville Marketplace Greg’s Get-It-N-Go Shell Cloverdale: Cloverdale General Brown’s Cedar Creek Grocery Gun Lake: Sam’s Gourmet Foods Gun Lake Amoco Gun Lake Shell Delton: Felpausch Michigan Short Stop Shell Banfield: Banfield General Store Orangeville: Orangeville Fast Stop Lacey: Clyde’s Sportsman Post Pine Lake: Pine Lake Grocery Dowling: Goldsworthys Dowling General Store Prairieville: Prairieville Fast Stop Woodland: Woodland Express Nashville: Trading Post Little’s Country Store Shell MV Pharmacy Nashville C Store Carl’s Lake Odessa: Lake-O-Express Lake-O-Mart Shell Carl’s Freeport: L & J’s Freeport Milling Shelbyville: Weick’s Food Town The Store at Southshore 77566089 Secretary of State Ruth Johnson reminds residents that they have until Monday, April 9 to register to vote in the May 8 election. Polls will be open election day from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. To register, applicants must be at least 18 years old by the election day and be U.S. citizens. Applicants must also be residents of Michigan and of the city or township in which they wish to register. Voters may register by mail, at their county, city or township clerk’s office or by visiting any Secretary of State office. The mail-in form is available at www.Michigan.gov/elections. First-time voters who register by mail must vote in person in their first election, unless they hand-deliver the application to their local clerk, are 60 years old or older, are disabled or are eligible to vote under the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act. To check their registration status, residents may visit the Michigan Voter Information Center at www.Michigan.gov/vote. Residents also can find information there on absentee voting, Michigan’s voter identification requirement, how to use voting equipment and how to contact their local clerk. In addition, they will find a map to their local polling places. Voters who qualify may choose to cast an absentee ballot. Those who wish to receive their absentee ‘Pinwheels for Prevention’ garden planted by Tyden Park member. “I approve of what has happened with Orangeville Island.” Riehl interjected, “We are asking to enforce the laws of the State of Michigan.” Liceaga continued, “Dues are to be used for the lake. We need more weed cleaning. There are ample patrols on the lake.” Capt. Bill Johnson, who had previously commanded the marine patrol, said, “We are willing to provide it, but it means hiring another part-time person. We are not going to short Gun Lake. These would be extra patrols; we never approached anybody — they approached us.” Orangeville Township Clerk Jennifer Goy asked if it would be for the Fourth of July. Riehl said it was also for other times and cited speed boats and safety reasons. Johnson added that the association would not be charged for patrols if the weather was bad; he noted that some years the number of patrol hours on the lake was lower because the weather was bad. Jerry Artz, GLPA vice president, said the $2,000 would pay for about 67 hours of patrol time. Returning to the issue of financing the cost, Perino noted, “This is not a normal general fund expenditure.” Supervisor Rook said, “[This] situation compares to a special assessment; I want input from residents.” Goy supported him, saying a petition was a possibility; she said she wants to know what members think. She also noted that the special assessment process requires approval of 51 percent of those affected. Rook brought the discussion to a close, recommending that the request be tabled for 30 days until the next board meeting May 1. In the meantime, he said he will consult the township attorney. Rook also said he would bring up the special assessment process. A concern for him is that the extra patrols could result in a decline in GLPA membership as members leave because they are unhappy with the extra patrols and the use of their dues to fund them. Ribble added that she had received several calls as had Perino. “People are offended by not knowing,” Ribble said. During a public comment period, Riehl brought up the issue of funneling, which is a term for lake residents allowing non-residents to keep boats at the residents’ docks. Riehl said knowledge of ownership of the offending boats was needed; the association is not able to get the information, but law enforcement agencies can. More patrols would find them; he cited an instance of multiple boats in front of an empty house. In other business, the township board approved the following: • Transfer of $20,000 to the fire department capital improvement fund. • Payment of $389,963 to the Barry County Road Commission for road repairs. • Payment of expenses to Linda Ribble who is testifying in a lawsuit involving recycling. • Installation of playground equipment at the township park. Rook reported that the annual solid waste recycling event will be May 12 at the county fairgrounds; electronics are included this year. He also reported that the township had received a list of parcels for oil and gas leases; he asked Goy to check out possible leases. The board also heard the library report from Marlene Leep and the fire department report from Fire Chief Dan Boulter. Marlene Greggorsen reported that Orangeville Clean Sweep Day will be May 19. Paradowski reported that planning for Orangeville Days was proceeding and that the softball and baseball seasons have started at the park. The next meeting of the Orangeville board will be Tuesday, May 1, at the township hall, 7350 Lindsey Road. �Page 4 — Thursday, April 5, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Where have all the leaders gone? Or in this case, did you notice that these detour signs near the Thornapple River in Hastings are actually pedestrian detour signs? As the weather warms, detour signs pop up across the state, but few, like this one along the Hastings Riverwalk, redirect foot traffic. These and regular vehicle detour signs have been put up to guide travelers while the Michigan Avenue bridge is being replaced. We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. We’ll select a photograph for publication each week and post the others to our website for all to enjoy. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Do you know? Do you recognize this man? Does the building look familiar? Do you know what the man is spreading into the beds? Is this an unconventional greenhouse in which he is sowing seed? Are these worm beds to which he is adding food or nutrients? What can you tell us about this photo? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event to reunite the photos with their original clippings or identify photos that may never have been used. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@jadgraphics.com; or call 269-945-9554. Last week’s photo was identified as the late George A. and Nellie Clouse by one of their grandsons, Geoerge F. Clouse, and by a great-grandson, as well. “You can’t imagine my shock when I opened up the Banner and saw a picture of my grandparents,” said George F. Clouse, who still lives near his grandparents’ farm. Have you George A. and Nellie were shown in a photo with their herd of registered Guernseys at their farm on Schultz Road in Hope Township. The names led to the discovery of a file folder in the Banner archives, simply marked “Farmers Ind. 1952.” Inside were clippings from the 1952 “Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz.” Look for reprints of those stories and photos in the coming weeks of the Banner in the “Turning Back the Pages” section. met? Marcia Szumowski “retired” in February 2011 so she could dedicate more time to the food pantry, located in the basement of Hastings First United Methodist Church, and her other volunteer interests which include working as a financial mentor for Barry County United Way. Marcia and her husband Edward Szumowski, a Grand Rapids audiologist, moved to Hastings in 2004, after their two children graduated from Forest Hills schools. Marcia continues to work a couple of days a week in her husband’s office after retiring from her job as a caseworker for Access West Michigan, a faith-based nonprofit organization in Grand Rapids that oversees 100 food pantries in West Michigan. “I am a nurse by profession, but when an injury forced me to quit, I used my time to become a volunteer, and it has allowed me to do all sorts of different things,” she said. “I volunteered for the food pantry here for a couple of years but didn’t start coordinating the Hastings food pantry until about a year ago.” The Szumowskis provide one-on-one financial mentoring, train other financial mentors and a teach group classes on finances through the Barry County United Way. “My husband and I took a class on financial mentoring through the MSUE in Kent County and have financially mentored five families through the Barry County United Way,” she said. “When you work with someone one-on-one and teach them how to change their behavior, you can make a big- As the world gets ready to celebrate one of the most important religious events of our time, I’m again impressed by how the Jewish observance of Passover and the Christian commemoration of Easter can be traced back hundreds of years. According to historic documents, “Jesus fulfills the symbols of Passover, for He is the Messiah whom God promised to the Jews,” and He is “the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world.” (John 1:29). This time of historic celebration has united both Christian and Jew for hundreds of years. Yet, as we head to our churches or synagogues this week, hatred, bitterness and distrust continue to plague our world because leaders have been unable to bring people together with a dedication to solving the perils that face us. A true leader looks for ways to promote a strong relationship among people while reminding us of the “possibilities” for everyone. The United States has 100 senators, 435 congressmen, one president, and nine Supreme Court justices — a total of 545 officials for whom over 300 million of us are directly, legally, morally and individually responsible. Yet, they don’t seem to be able to focus on promoting hard work, compassion and understanding of each other. The federal government continues to spend billions of dollars more than it takes in each year by supporting legislation that contributes to our debt, passing the bills on to our kids and grandchildren. Some political leaders have referred to it as “kicking the can down the road.” So, what are we to do? We need to read more, become more involved in government at all levels and demand legislation that makes sense to all Americans. My wife, Patti, and I just returned from a few days in Florida. As we arrived last week in Sanford, Fla., I noticed the parking lot at the motel was filled with news vans. As I entered the motel office, I noticed a man fumbling with his cell phone. He said he was trying to get in touch with a friend about the big rally that was planned for the next day. He said it was all about Trayvon Martin, the young man killed by a Neighborhood Watch volunteer George Zimmerman. During the next few days, I was able to watch local and national leaders focusing on what they called “racial injustice.” Yet, in talking to the young man at the motel, it seemed to be more about a change in the Neighborhood Watch legislation that allowed volunteers more liberties to take matters into their own hands. According to reports, Zimmerman claimed that he acted in self-defense, yet Police Chief Bill Lee said, “Until we can establish probable cause to dispute that, we don’t have the grounds to arrest him.” Anyone can follow the case on national news, but what I was impressed with was the leadership shown by the mayor to keep the situation from getting out of control. The Sanford City Council held a special meeting to discuss the incident, giving citizens a chance to formally voice their concerns over the city’s handling of the issue. I was able to watch the proceedings on local television. Mayor Jeff Triplett did an admirable job of containing the crowd, but still allowing audience members enough time to share their concerns. It took a great deal of poise and selfcontrol for the mayor to overcome the problems for which he had little or no answers. Because he allowed the people to be heard, they walked away calmly, rather than the meeting escalating into an out-ofcontrol situation. Just last week, President Barack Obama called on Congress to approve an increase of taxes on what he calls “millionaire” taxpayers. The plan was in response to legislation the president promoted last year to tax the top wealthiest taxpayers — those earning more than $250,000 each year — again, pitting the ‘haves’ and ‘have nots’ against each other. The president also supports a national health insurance program with little or no plans on how to fund it. It was his party that condemned the Republicans during the Bush Administration for passing a senior prescription plan with what was called a ‘doughnut hole’ without provisions to pay for it. Now it’s become part of the Democratic plan under the new health care legislation to fill the doughnut hole of the prescription plan adding even more to the cost, with still no plans to fund the program. This isn’t leadership. What we need is “fatherly” leadership that convinces us that we can’t continue to spend without understanding the eventual reality. Our nation has accumulated over $16 trillion in debt, depending on whose numbers you use. It’s in the nation’s best interest that both parties come up with a plan to deal with out-of-control spending that, left unchecked, will impact every man woman and child across the nation for generations to come. This isn’t leadership. Instead, it just adds to the frustration that so many Americans are feeling today. Our leaders should work to restore sanity to the process, because only then will they be able to deal with the reality of the situation. It’s imperative that we hold a national dialogue on a host of issues, knowing that we might disagree on many of the issues, but with the understanding that we do it respectfully — like Mayor Jeff Triplett did in Sanford, Florida. We shouldn’t allow our leaders to divide us over rich or poor, young or old, black or white — we’re all in this together. True leaders debate the issues, looking for all the ways to resolve problems in the most efficient manner for as many people as possible. A quote I read while on vacation said, “The world belongs to those who are willing to change their mind when presented with new facts.” We have the facts. Now all we have to do is to be willing to set a new course, a new direction for all of us. Norman Vincent Peale said, “Become a possibilitarian. No matter how dark things seem to be or actually are, raise your sights and see possibilities — always see them, for they’re always there.” Fred Jacobs, vice president J-Ad Graphics. Write Us A Letter: Marcia Szumowski ger impact than if you just write a check to help them get through another financial crisis.” Person you admire the most: When we were living in Grand Rapids, I met a lady named Maggie, who volunteered through the United Way. She was 95 years old, but she would go from one place to another to volunteer. She is the epitome of what I want to be. Book I would recommend: One that really impressed me was Blonde Roots. It’s written from the perspective that it was white people that were enslaved and really helped me understand what it means to be a minority. If I won the lottery: I really wouldn’t use any for myself because we have been so blessed; but, there are places we currently contribute to financially that we would continue to give. I am happy the way I am; I live for what is next. If I were president: This is my husband’s influence — I would allow the private sector to offer programs rather than the government because they would be more successful. Best gift I ever received: Both of our kids were adopted as infants from the same birth mother. I would have to say that is the best gift — allowing us to be a family. Best things about Barry County: The volunteerism and small-town atmosphere. People are willing to reach out and help one another. Each week, the Banner profiles a person from the community working behind the scenes, whose efforts may not make headlines, but whose dedication makes Barry County shine. We’ll provide a quick peek each week at some of Barry County’s stars. Do you know someone who should be featured? Send information to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, 49058; email news@j-adgraphics.com; or call 269-945-9554 Ext. 225. The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, What do you grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. Don’t forget to leave an opinion or comment. Last week’s question: Area schools are struggling with a state mandate to offer all-day, everyday kindergarten. Should kindergartners be on a full-day schedule five days a week? 45% 55% Yes No For this week: The Detroit Tigers open the new season today. Do you think they will they go all the way and become World Series champions, as oddsmakers predict? q q Yes No �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, April 5, 2012 — Page 5 Society is focused on man, not God IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV Michigan making strides against bovine TB To the editor: Michigan has been battling to eradicate bovine tuberculosis since this disease reemerged in free-ranging, white-tailed deer in 1994. Through hard work, innovation and partnership with cattleman and state and federal partners, we have been able to make great strides in recent years against this disease that not only impacts cattle, but other animals — and humans — as well. Last year, 57 counties in the Lower Peninsula were designated as bovine TB-free in an interim rule published in the Federal Register. Additionally, the United States Department of Agriculture approved shrinking the state’s bovine TB modified accredited zone even further by removing Presque Isle County. Only Alcona, Alpena, Montmorency and Oscoda counties in the easternmost area of the northern Lower Peninsula remain in the MAZ. Achieving split-state status was a real turning point in Michigan’s bovine TB program. It has been a long haul for our 13,000 beef and dairy producers since we started addressing this issue 17 years ago. Through hard work by beef and dairy farmers, effective surveillance testing, radio frequency identification and movement certification requirements, we are able to protect and now open up new market opportunities for our combined beef and dairy industries. For example, many states, including Wisconsin, are recognizing the efforts of Michigan cattlemen and are in the process of changing their regulations with the knowledge RFID will remain a part of Michigan’s plan. Michigan leads the country and is a model state for electronic identification; to date, more than 3 million RFID tags have been purchased by our farmers to tag their cattle. Many use the technology to track the health, vaccines and milk production of their cattle. There is no question in the minds of state veterinarians nationwide that RFID is a critical tool for disease tracking and eradication. Michigan’s overall goal with electronic identification is traceability for disease and food safety purposes. But that doesn’t stop our progressive farmers from using this technology as a marketing tool providing extraordinary opportunities — whether it is for overseas marketing, country-of-origin labeling or buying local — RFID can prove where the beef and dairy products came from, and we know they are Pure Michigan. To order RFID tags for cattle, exhibitors may call NorthStar Cooperative, 888-2033398,; or the National Holstein Association, 800-952-5200. Dr. Rick Smith, Bovine TB Program Manager Diesel dilemma elicits ethical question To the editor: The ethical question is, does one obey the law, or does one respect the lives and property of one’s neighbors? I had not heard of a diesel particle trap until the weekend of March 24. Then, I heard from a man who owned a diesel pickup truck that had one. The diesel particle trap was intended to trap the lampblack-like soot produced by a diesel engine operated under load. In theory, the diesel particles would burn off when the diesel engine is not under load. In actual practice, the diesel particle trap plugs up, obstructing the exhaust and rendering the truck inoperative, often in an inconvenient location, such as on a bridge or overpass on the freeway, or on a stretch of road with no shoulder. This makes the truck an obstructive collision hazard to moving traffic, especially at night or under weather conditions that reduce visibility. This circumstance occurred with the truck owner who told me of his experience. He called a friend who towed the truck a halfmile to where the road had a wide shoulder. He then called a mechanic who towed the truck to his shop. The truck was a model year with two zeros in the middle, when the diesel particle trap was mandatory. The mechanic recommended an exhaust system from a year with two nines in the middle, when the diesel particle trap was not required. The truck owner had more concern for the safety of his fellow motorists than for a law that won’t prevent soot when the stalled truck is smashed into a diesel-fueled fireball on the freeway. He agreed with the mechanic’s recommendation, and his truck has not obstructed a road since. Frederick G. Schantz, Hastings To the editor: I find it interesting that some want to blame the Republicans (and conservative Christians) for just about everything that is wrong with this country. Take a good look at a liberal (basic Democrat) mindset and see how things have changed in the last 50 years in this country. We adopted a pro-choice mindset as law and have had over 50 million terminations of pregnancies (otherwise known as murders) in the past 40 years of the most innocent and unable to defend themselves as human beings. The vast, vast majority of these innocents died because they got in the way of someone’s lifestyle. We adopted the liberal form of relationship called “free love” as a way of life, thinking that there is no harm, no victim and we all can go off happy no matter what kind of sexual relationship we have, and all the while turning a blind eye to the fallout of free love, out of control STDs, AIDS, fatherless (and sometimes motherless) homes, broken relationships, rampant divorce, and a host of other problems. We have adopted the liberal mindset about education. Even though our schools are failing children at an alarming rate and many students cannot read and write and think above a grade school level, we have teachers who still want more and more in the way of money and benefits that are producing less and less as far as students go. While you cannot blame the teachers only, you have to throw in the parents who don’t care and the school administrators who seem to want to try everything except basic education to teach children. We adopted the liberal mindset toward drugs. “Free your mind, get high and take a trip,” a trip that for millions has ruined their lives or left them way short of having any kind of meaningful and productive life for themselves and toward others. How many murders and other crimes have been committed because of drugs? Alcohol as well, ruined millions of lives. We have adopted the liberal mindset of an “entitlement” society in the guise of “share the wealth” socialism. A society that lacks the ability to work hard because it has been told for so long that the wealthy are to blame for you not having all that you want, when you want, how you want; a society that has both hands out looking for what you worked hard for to be placed in it. Basically a society that says no matter what I do to hurt myself, you have to pay for it. A society that says “no matter how hard you work, some of it is mine, if for no other reason because I want it and don’t want to work for it.” It is in this where unionism breaks down, as the basic union mindset that make work safer and better becomes the union mindset that is all about “me” and becomes just as evil and greedy as the other corporations and leaders they fight, all without regard to doing the best you can for the person utilizing the products and services produced. We have adopted the liberal mindset in our entertainment and sports, that any idea, any thought, is to be presented as good and uplifting and only prudes would object. That cursing, nudity, violence and any concept, no matter how many people it might destroy is good and should be enjoyed by the masses. That nothing should be kept behind closed doors, everything should be open, and no matter how bad the acting, singing, etc., the people making this entertainment should be honored and praised and even treated like gods to follow and emulate. We have adopted the idea that anything goes in how we dress, how we look, how we act, how we talk and on and on. No one can say anything about anything or you are out of line, not PC and are treated like the most evil of all people. We are a nation of 300 millionplus people, most of whom think they are a god that all the others should revolve around. The worst liberal idea that we have adopted is that there is no God, or that all gods or religions are on a level playing field and nobody can say his or her god is better or worse than someone else’s, or that god is what you make up in your own mind and that we are all here by chance and there are no absolutes to go by, so you choose what is right and wrong. The liberals have worked hard to throw off the shackles of the Judio-Christian foundation this country was built on to build one without God that places man at the center of all things, with the freedom to do all things, no matter the cost to others or themselves. The above are the ways and means and results of the god of the liberals, not a pretty picture is it? We do not have to accept nor continue in this failed way of life as a people or a country. Now is the day to change direction, to crawl up out of the mudpit and come clean before the God of the Universe, a God who is absolute, who cares and loves each of us, a God who gave His only begotten Son to a horrible death that we might be reconciled to Him, if we place our faith and trust in His Son Jesus, a saviour who gives right directions on life, absolutes that will not fail. By giving your life to Him, He is giving you real life back, and you can help others in this country by showing them the real life the true God offers, not the kind of failed life the god of the liberals offers. Joe Perotta, Nashville National debt must be reduced To the editor: I am confused and perplexed, consequently I have some questions I would like answered. Do we appreciate our freedom as capitalists? Are we indebted to the nation giving us this freedom? Do we have any obligations to assure that the nation giving us this freedom remains financially solvent? What happens to this freedom if our nation becomes bankrupt? How are illegal immigrants contributing to this debt? What did we get from the ultimate sacrifice of 4,200 U.S. citizens - an emboldened Iran with the possibilities of nuclear weapons and the poppy capital of the world in Afghanistan? Was the appointment of the president by the Supreme Court helpful or harmful to our nation and the world? In the worlds of John F. Kennedy, “ask not what your country can do for you but what you can do for your country” to eliminate our indebtedness? Any help you could provide to reduce our national debt so we can use the interest money to help our citizens would be appreciated. As a Godly nation, we need to prayerfully consider how we can help eliminate our national debt. Bill Byrne, Hastings Police, prosecutor should be impartial To the editor: In my opinion, Julie Nakfor Pratt is not the best person for the job of prosecutor because she is part of the good ole’ boy system in Barry County. The reason is conflict of interest with her husband being a Hastings City police officer. What ever happened to being fair and impartial? How many times were there and would be the cases be discussed like at home that could be prejudicial and cohorts that could cause lawsuits and overturns that would or could cost the taxpayers thousands of dollars in unnecessary costs. Eldon Shellenbarger, Hastings OPEN HOUSE Celebrating Jean Kimmel’s 90 Birthday th Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. Banner Delton Kellogg Elementary ALL DAY - EVERY DAY KINDERGARTEN Parent Information Meeting April 12, 2012 3:30 or 6:00 PM Elementary School Multi Purpose Room Registration Packets Available 269-623-9275 77566747 U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. The Hastings Date: Saturday, April 14th Time: 1:00pm to 3:00pm Place: Emmanuel Gury Parish House 315 W. Center St., Hastings, MI 49058 Serving: Cake-Ice Cream, Coffee & Soda (Please no gifts) 07596339 77566764 Quality Education for ALL Students ® The Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Helen Mudry Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 77567013 Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • 77564841 John Jacobs �Page 6 — Thursday, April 5, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Expert answers questions about benefits and more I lost my Social Security card. Should I get a new one? If you know your Social Security number, you may not need a replacement card. You can replace your Social Security card for free if it is lost or stolen, but you are limited to SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN three replacement cards in a year and 10 during your lifetime. Learn more at Worship Together… 77566738 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. CHURCH OF THE LIVING GOD A full gospel church. 1240 W. State Rd., Hastings. Pastor Doug Davis. 269-948-9740. Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study 6 p.m. Sunday School and Youth Group for all ages. Come and worship the Lord with us! . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. ORANGEVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH 6921 Marsh Rd., 2 miles south of Gun Lake, Plainwell. Phone 269664-4377. OrangevilleBaptist. org. Pastors Dan Bowman and Adam Parmenter. Sundays - 9:45--10:45 a.m. “Dealing With Your Past” March through May. March 25 - 6 p.m. “Messiah in the Passover’ Seder Meal. March 31 - 7 p.m. Orangeville Cafe. April 8 - 7:30 & 11 a.m. Easter Celebration. April 22-27 - Evangelist Will Rice. Children, teen and adult Sunday School classes; 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Worship; 5:30 p.m. Junior and Senior High Word of Life Clubs. Tuesday - 9 a.m. Men’s Prayer and Bible Study. Wednesday - 6:30 p.m. Pre-school through 6th grade Word of Life Gophers & Olympians. Prayer & Bible Study - 7 p.m. 6 p.m. Teen Word of Life. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Phone 269-721-8077. Minister Ryan Wieland 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Praise Worship Service; Noon alternate weekends Youth Group Tuesday. Covenant Prayer Group, Wednes-day 6:30 p.m., Choir Practice. Thursday 7 p.m. Praise Band Practice. 2nd and 4th Thursdays at 7 p.m. Christ’s Quilters. Friday 6:30 p.m., CPRChrist’s Plan for Recovery (meal served). For more information small groups, special evnts or if you have a prayer requst, call the church office and see postings on WEB site: www.countrychapel.umc.org. SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 9:15 Contemporary Worship, 10:30 a.m. Refreshments, 11 a.m. Traditional Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Pastor of Senior Adults and Visitation, Don Brail. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. for children, youths and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Senior High Youth Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Mid-Week: 6:30-7:45 p.m. Pioneer Clubs, age 4th to 5th grade, and Junior High Youth Group, 6th-8th grade. Thursday: 10 a.m. Senior Adult Discussion and 11:30 a.m., lunch at Wendy’s. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Holy Communion Every Sunday! April 6 - Crosswalk 9:30 a.m.; Good Friday Services 7 p.m. April 7 Indoor D cor Committee at 10 a.m. April 8 - Easter Services at 6:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. No Sunday School. Breakfast to follow after 6:30 service. Men’s AA 7 p.m. April 9 Pennock Hospice at 5 p.m.; Adventurers Bible Study at 7 p.m.; Spiritual AA at 7 p.m. April 10 Stewardship Committee Meeting at 6 p.m. April 11 - Wordwatchers Bible Study at 10 a.m.; Sarah Circle Women’s Group at 7 p.m. April 12 Clapper Kids Bell Choir at 3;45 p.m.; Grace Notes Bell Choir at 5:45 p.m. 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269945-9414 or 945-2645, fax 269-9452698. Pastor Amy Luckey website http://www.discovergrace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 7 a.m. Sunrise Service; 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 10 a.m. Easter Brunch; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service; 6 p.m. No Youth Group. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.first churchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot.com. Thursday - 9 a.m. Men’s Bible Study; 11:30 Women’s Brown Bag Bible Study; 6:30 p.m. Choir Rehearsal; 7 p.m. Maundy Thursday Worship. Friday 9 a.m. Pickleball; 12:15 p.m. Good Friday Worship. Saturday - 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday - 4 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 5 p.m. Pickleball; 6:30 p.m. Financial Peace U. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nash-ville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 or -517-852-1806. HASTINGS REFORMED CHURCH “A Historic Reformed Community.” Sunday morning services begin at 10 a.m. Meeting at the Barry County Commission on Aging building, 320 W. Woodlawn Ave., Hastings. Pastor: Peter Adams. 616-690-8609 padams@juno.com. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Fiberglass Products Lauer Family Funeral Homes 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 Area Obituaries www.socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber. I worked for the past 10 years and I now have my 40 credits. Does this mean that I can stop working and get the maximum Social Security retirement benefit when it’s time to retire? The 40 credits are the minimum number you need to qualify for retirement benefits. However, we do not base the amount of the benefit on those credits; we base it on your earnings over your working lifetime. To learn more about Social Security retirement benefits and how your benefit amount is figured, read our online publication, ‘Retirement Benefits,’ at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10035.html. I want to estimate my retirement benefit at several different ages. Is there a way to do that? Use our retirement estimator at www.socialsecurity.gov/estimator to get an instant, personalized retirement benefit estimate based on current law and your earnings record. The retirement estimator, which also is available in Spanish, lets you create additional “what if” retirement scenarios based on different income levels and stop-work ages. If both my spouse and I are entitled to Social Security benefits, is there any reduction in our payments because we are married? No. We calculate lifetime earnings independently to determine each spouse’s Social Security benefit amount, and couples are not penalized simply because they are married. When each member of a married couple meets all other eligibility requirements to receive Social Security retirement benefits, each spouse receives a monthly benefit amount based on his or her own earnings. If one member of the couple earned low wages or failed to earn enough Social Security credits to be insured for retirement benefits, he or she may be eligible to receive benefits as a spouse. Learn more about earning Social Security credits by reading our publication on the subject at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10072.html. I am receiving Social Security disability benefits. Is there a way for me to try working and not lose my benefits? We have special rules called “work incentives” that help you keep your benefits and Medicare while you test your ability to work. For example, there is a trial work period during which you can receive full benefits regardless of how much you earn, as long as you report your work activity and continue to have a disabling impairment. For more information about work incentives if you collect disability benefits and want to return to work, we recommend you read the leaflet, ‘Working While Disabled-How We Can Help’ at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10095.html. Betty Elaine McIlvain HASTINGS, MI - Betty Elaine McIlvain of Hastings passed away peacefully on Friday, March 30, 2012 surrounded by her loving family. Betty was born on February 23, 1929 in Hastings and was the daughter of Nellie and Herbert Rose. She went on to marry her high school sweetheart, Carl McIlvain on June 15, 1947 and celebrated 58 years of marriage before Carl passed away in 2006. Betty was preceded in death by her parents, Nellie and Herbert; her brothers, Kenneth, Robert, James, Herbert Jr., Donald, Charles; sisters, Beatrice and Helen. Betty was the last surviving sibling. She is survived by her children, Linda (Jim) Bauchman, Lance (Sue) McIlvain and Michael (Carol) McIlvain; grandchildren, Jim and Lori, Shannon, Lance Carl, Michael and Chris; great- grandchildren who were the great loves of her life, Breana, Savana, Ophelia, Connor, Riley, Grace and Maria. Betty is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Betty lived at Woodlawn Meadows the last few months of her life where she made many friends and enjoyed watching the deer and birds eating out of her feeders. Her little dog Chewy was able to visit her almost every day and they loved spending time together. Betty also enjoyed attending the First Presbyterian Church and watching old game shows on TV. Carl and Betty were lifetime members of the Michigan Farmers Union. The family will receive friends Monday, April 9, 2012 from 5 until 7 p.m. at Lauer Family Funeral Homes-Wren Chapel, 1401 N. Broadway in Hastings. A memorial service will be held at the First Presbyterian Church on Tuesday, April 10, 2012 at 11 a.m. with a lunch following the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Spectrum Hospice or the Diabetes Association. Please share a memory with Betty’s family at www.lauerfh.com. I currently receive Social Security disability benefits. Is there a time limit on how long you can collect Social Security disability benefits? Your disability benefits will continue as long as your medical condition has not improved and you cannot work. We will review your case at regular intervals to make sure you are still disabled. Learn more by reading our publication, ‘Disability Benefits,’ at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10029.html. Is it true that a person can own a home and still be eligible for Supplemental Security Income benefits? Yes. A person who owns a home and lives in that home can be eligible for SSI benefits. Although there is an asset limit for people to qualify for SSI, some things don’t count toward that limit, such as a house, a vehicle and some funds set aside for burial expenses. To learn more about SSI and the eligibility requirements, browse our booklet, ‘Supplemental Security Income’ at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/11000.html. I know you need to have limited resources to receive Supplemental Security Income. But what is considered a “resource?” Resources are things you own that you can use for support. They include cash, real estate, personal belongings, bank accounts, stocks, and bonds. To be eligible for SSI, a person must have $2,000 or less in countable resources. (A married couple must have $3,000 or less in countable resources.) Not all of your resources count toward the SSI resource limit. For example, the home you live in and the land it’s on do not count; your personal effects and household goods do not count; life insurance policies may not count, depending on their value; your car usually does not count; burial plots for you and members of your immediate family do not count; up to $1,500 in burial funds for you and up to $1,500 in burial funds for your spouse may not count. If you are blind or have a disability, some items may not count if you plan to use them to work or earn extra income. You may also wish to read our material on resources in the booklet, ‘Understanding SSI’ at www.socialsecurity.gov/ssi/text-understanding-ssi.htm. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. David Henry Leinaar BALDWIN, MI -David Henry Leinaar of Baldwin, and formerly of Delton, passed away peacefully on March 31, 2012 at his home surrounded by his family. David was born on February 25, 1948, in Hastings, the son of Boyd and Wilma (Morgan) Leinaar. David married LoyAnn Bair on April 11, 1964. They were married for 48 years. David was a truck driver for 33 years, retiring in 2005. He was an active member of the VFW Men’s Auxiliary Post 5315, and Sons of the Amvets Post 1988. He always loved to hunt and fish, and play with his three loving Dachshunds. But most of all, he loved going for deer rides with his wife LoyAnn and joking and laughing with his family and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-law, Dan Middleton. David is survived by his wife, LoyAnn; and daughters, Tracy (Tim) Baker, Judy (Chris) Barker and Valery (Scott) Hulbert; grandchildren, Paul (Cheryl) Diaz, Brian Diaz, BethAnne (Josh) Montgomery, Michelle Barker, Zachery and Amanda Hulbert; great grandchildren, Ava Diaz and Armando, Hailey and Tyler Montgomery. Also surviving are brothers, Richard Leinaar (Darlene) of Baldwin, Peter (Rhonda) Leinaar of Hastings, John (Mary) Leinaar of Cross Plains, TN; sisters, Marilyn Middleton of Cottontown, TN, and Joyce Leinaar of Cross Plains, TN; special friend, Rich Bender, who is considered a brother. Respecting David’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 14, 2012, 1 p.m. at the Baldwin Assembly of God, 10063 S. M37, Baldwin, MI 49304. Please join the family for a luncheon at the VFW Post 5315, 2225 N. M-37, Baldwin, after the service. Memorial contributions can be made to Hospice of Ludington, the VFW Men’s Auxiliary Post 5315, Sons of the Amvets Post 1988 or the Cancer Center of Ludington. FAMILY FUNERAL HOMES Marjorie Lee Bradley HASTINGS, MI - Marjorie Lee Bradley, age 90, of Hastings, died on Friday, March 30, 2012 at Woodlawn Meadows in Hastings. She was born December 26, 1921 at home in Osawatomie, KS, the daughter of William Raymond and Ora (Seetin) Eichorn. Marjorie graduated from Osawatomie High School in 1939. She was a homemaker most of her life, she was also a secretary and bookkeeper for a short time. Marjorie married LeRoy H. Bradley January 4, 1946, he preceded her in death in 2001. She was a devout Christian Scientist and an antique glass and furniture collector. She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Ora Eichorn; brother, Jay O. Eichorn; and husband, LeRoy H. Bradley. Marjorie is survived by her son, Bill and his wife Nancy Bradley of Hastings; grandson, Matthew and his wife Beth Bradley; and great granddaughter, Hannah of Holland; granddaughter, Erin Bradley of Boulder, CO. Respecting her wishes cremation has taken place. Memorials would be appreciated to Hastings Education Enrichment Foundation 232 W. Grand St., Hastings, MI 49058 or YMCA of Barry County, P.O. Box 252, Hastings, MI 49058. Arrangements are by the Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. Please visit our website to leave a message or memory to the family. www.girrbach funeralhome.net. Ray L. Girrbach Owner/Director 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 • 269-945-3252 Serving Hastings, Barry County and Surrounding Communities for 45 years •Traditional and Cremation Services •Pre-Planning Services •Large Parking Lot - Handicap Accessible •Serving All Faiths •Pre-arrangement Transfers Accepted Family Owned and Operated www.girrbachfuneralhome.net �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, April 5, 2012 — Page 7 Former Hastings trooper reappointed to state board BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY by Gerald Stein Gov. Rick Snyder Thursday announced the reappointments of Diane Garrison, of Holt, and Kevin McGaffigan, of Albion, to the State Police Retirement Board. The nine-member board oversees the Michigan State Police Retirement System. “Both Diane and Kevin bring extensive experiences as state police officers,” said Snyder. “I am confident they will continue to help the board ensure our public safety professionals receive the retirement benefits they have earned.” McGaffigan is captain and commanding officer for the 1st District headquarters in NORTH N: Q 6 5 2 M: A 9 4 L: J 8 K: J 10 5 3 WEST EAST N: --M: K Q 7 6 2 L: K 6 5 3 K: Q 6 4 2 N: K J 10 8 3 M: 8 L: Q 10 7 4 K: K 8 7 SOUTH: N: A 9 7 4 M: J 10 5 3 L: A 9 2 K: A 9 North Pass Double All Pass East Pass 1N South 1L Pass West 1M 2M Captain M. North looked at the pair. “So? What happened and why?” Jim spoke up first. “I made a one heart overcall after South opened one diamond. I had five solid hearts, 10 high card points, and a void in spades. How can you go wrong at the one level?” Joe spoke up next. “I heard North double after my partner’s heart overcall, but I did not take the time to understand her bid. That is, until after the damage had been done at the end of the hand. I was only thinking that as a partnership, we do not want to play in hearts having only one heart in my hand. I bid 1 spade with five spades and nine high card points How can you go wrong at the one level? Jim picked up the conversation as the Captain looked on. “South passed smoothly, and with a spade void, I rebid the hearts. That was a bad decision on my part as the hand was passed out, and I was playing 2 Hearts vulnerable. You will soon see how we went so wrong!” “With the 8 of Diamonds as the lead,” Jim continued, “I was able to take only five tricks in total, for down three tricks and a score of minus 300 points. What a disaster we had on that hand.” Joe spoke up again, “In retrospect, and finally understanding what a poor bid I had made with the one spade bid, I realized that North had told me with her negative double bid that she had four spades in her hand. That had gone right over my head because I was thinking of something else instead of listening to each bid and processing the information that was being given there. My bid should have been a pass, and North-South would have continued the bidding finding a spade fit. If they bid two spades, with my five spades, we can set them one trick, and we end up with a positive score of 50 points.” The Captain spoke up finally, “Well, don’t beat yourselves up too much. The hand as I see it has a balance of points with North-South having 21 while your team had 19. Unfortunately, you were vulnerable and missed the golden fit in diamonds due to South’s opening diamond bid. Those things happen in bridge, and they happen in life. About the only thing that I can see that you missed on that hand,” and here Captain M. North stopped for a moment with a smile, “was your lunch. It’s time to get ready for our second session.” As the Captain walked away to greet the returning bridge-playing passengers, Jim and Joe looked at each other and shook their heads. (Answers from last week’s Bridge questions: Bridge adages: what do they mean? “Get the kiddies off the street.” Draw trumps ASAP. “Eight ever, nine never.” When missing the queen of trump with an eight-card trump fit, finesse. If you have a nine-card trump fit, play for the drop. “Trump poor.” Too many trump and not enough other high cards in the other suits. “Aces and spaces.” Three or four aces in your hand and no other honor cards.) This week’s Bridge Question: In this column, one of the characters mutters to himself, “Things fall apart.” What is the source of that quotation? ***** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) Latest updates from the KCC Institute for Learning in Retirement (ILR) Office: -- Bridge Class #2, The Play of the Hand, for intermediate and for advanced beginner players, will be offered in Battle Creek for nine weeks beginning April 23 -- A nine-week beginning bridge class, "Bidding in the 21st Century," will be offered at the KCC Fehsenfeld Center on Wednesday mornings from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. beginning April 25. Beginners and intermediate bridge players are welcome. Call the ILR office at 269-948-9500 Extension 2804 for more information on both classes. Newborn Babies Hoke-Nicholson Steve and Kitty Hoke of Hastings, MI are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter Amanda Hoke to Jamie Nicholson, son of Tim and Sissie Nicholson of South Haven, MI. Amanda is a 2001 graduate of Hastings High School and is currently a third grade teacher in Portage, MI. Jamie is a 1998 graduate of South Haven High School and is a database administrator at Palisades Nuclear Plant in Covert, MI. Jamie and Amanda attended Western Michigan University and now live in the Kalamazoo area. The happy couple plan to be wed on September 29th, 2012 in Kalamazoo, surrounded by family and friends. Church to host Good Friday service First Presbyterian Church will host a special mid-day service April 6 focusing on the sights, sounds and smells of Good Friday. The service will begin at 12:15 and will conclude by 1 p.m., allowing everyone an opportunity to reflect on the significance of this day. The service will be at First Presbyterian Church, 405 N. M-37 Highway (just north of Airport Road). All are invited to join in worship on this important day for Christians. For more information, call 269-945-5463 or check out the church’s website, www.firstchurchhastings.org. Ayame Lynne, born at Pennock Hospital on March 20, 2012 at 11:49 p.m. to Chrysta Hall and Tyler Olmstead of Hastings/ Bellevue. Weighing 7 lbs. 2 ozs. and 19 inches long. ***** James Dean, born at Pennock Hospital on March 21, 2012 at 3:12 p.m. to Sacha Fetterley and Troy Johncock of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 11 ozs. and 18 1/2 inches long. ***** R. Fletcher, born at Pennock Hospital on March 21, 2012 at 6 a.m. to Danielle and Kenneth Fenstemaker of Hastings. Weighing 8 lbs. 13 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Karoline Dawn, born at Pennock Hospital on March 23, 2012 at 7:11 p.m. to Sheena Kling and Jason Roe of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 6 ozs. and 19 3/4 inches long. ***** Eli Jay, born at Pennock Hospital on March 25, 2012 at 9 a.m. to Kyle and Kristi Langmaack of Clarksville Weighing 7 lbs. 8 ozs. and 19 inches long. ***** Brooke Lynn, born at Pennock Hospital on March 23, 2012 at 2:04 p.m. to Crystal and Joshua VanSyckle of Hastings. Weighing 9 lbs. 1 oz. and 21 inches long. ***** Kaitlynn Mae, born at Pennock Hospital on March 25, 2012 at 8:25 p.m. to Steve and Lindsey Snyder of Hastings. Weighing 9 lbs. 10 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Audi Marie, born at Pennock Hospital on Benjamin Jack Lester, Phoenix, AZ and Agnes Muteteri, Delton. Anthony Michael Smith, Hastings and Dorothy Marie Clemens, Hastings. GET MORE NEWS! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. Mulch, Stone, Soil Available WE DELIVER 5715 South M-66, Nashville • 517-852-1864 77567031 Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8:30 - 6:00; Sat. 8:30 - 5:00 EwingLandscaping@yahoo.com BARRY COUNTY Rototilling Area TEA PARTY MEETING Bobcat Work 7:00 pm • Tuesday, April 10th Little Luggers Hauling Speaker: Neal Rohrs “The Power of One” Middle Villa Inn 77566785 06776896 Will haul in black dirt and wood chips 269-908-0567 269-804-6027 77567015 Hastings City Bank Trust and Investment Group 269-945-2401 150 W. Court St. Hastings, MI 49058 77567033 5715 South M-66, Nashville Certified Randy Teegardin, CFP.® Book Your Spring Clean-Up & Landscaping Projects NOW. FREE Landscaping Estimates Contact Chris at 517-749-5218 4611 North M-37, Middleville Gary L. Munson • 269-623-8464 Financial Planning He a ve n On E a r t h L andscapes Investment opportunities include non deposit investments which are: Not FDIC Insured Not Bank Guaranteed May Lose Value For All Your Tent Rental Needs DELTON KELLOGG SCHOOLS POSITIONS AVAILABLE Tables and chairs available. SUBSTITUTE BUS DRIVER(S): Call: Dan McKinney 269-838-7057 or Tom McKinney 269-838-3842 School-year position. Must be able to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License with B-P, S, must pass State Skill Test and State Written Test, must have less than 7 points on driving record and able to pass physical, including drug test. TWO BROTHERS AND A TENT 77567025 Marriage Licenses Get yours while it’s still in full bloom. “LET US HELP BEAUTIFY YOUR YARD” Call 269-945-9554 anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads March 23, 2012 at 2:58 a.m. to Tiffany Jarman and Kaleb Stonehouse of Delton. Weighing 4 lbs. and 16 inches long. ***** Cohen Vern, born at Pennock Hospital on March 24, 2012 at 3:39 p.m. to Charlie Higbee and Ericca Eldridge of Portland. Weighing 7 lbs. 2 ozs. and 19 inches long. FLOWERING TREES & SHRUBS ARE NOW IN! 77566761 Lead: 8 of Diamonds with East-West vulnerable As the USS: Barry County Bridge Barge pulled into the landing at the Tyden Pier in Hastings, Captain M. North announced to the bridge players on board, “I am sorry to have you go without your lunch today. Our galley is closed due to a boiler problem. Feel free to take a break and go to lunch in downtown Hastings. Our next session will start in one hour.” As the bridge players filed off the USS: BCBB, the captain could not but notice that one pair had made no effort to leave. He wandered over to their table where they were deep in a post mortem on an apparently difficult hand. “Why so glum, chums?” Captain M. North offered as an ice breaker. One of the pair, Joe by name, muttered under his breath, “Things fall apart.” His partner Jim looked up and nodded in agreement. “Things fell apart all right on board number 25. What a ship wre….err…train wreck.” He had caught himself in the knick of time. Here was the bidding with North as the Dealer: Lansing. Previously, he worked as field service bureau staff, post commander in Hastings, defensive tactics coordinator, recruit school commander and a state trooper. McGaffigan has been a member of the State Police Retirement Board for three years. He holds an associate’s degree in metallurgical engineering and a bachelor’s degree in business and marketing, both from Ferris State University. McGaffigan will represent members of the retirement system with the rank of lieutenant or above. Their appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate. 77566915 Applications accepted at the Superintendent’s Office at 327 N. Grove St., Delton, MI between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., or email: chersha@dkschools.org 77566683 �Page 8 — Thursday, April 5, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa by Elaine Garlock Happy Easter. The community Good Friday service will be April 6 at 1 p.m. at Central United Methodist Church. Several pastors in the Lakewood Ministerial Association will participate. The chancel choir of the host church will sing an anthem. This and the Thanksgiving eve service are the traditional times for their cooperative effort. They provide a screening service for economic needs, especially with utility costs for needy people. The community food bank housed at First Congregational Church is one of their services. Next week Saturday the Women of Central Church will host a spring breakfast at which Josie Hicks of the Quilting Basket will be the speaker. Next week the Lake Odessa Area Historical Society will meet Thursday at 7 p.m. at the Freight House. The speaker will be a man from Bellevue with his photo program on forgotten spots in Michigan. This will combine history and stories, plus the scenic aspects of his narrative. Visitors are always welcome. The society has just finished its first-ever bridal show which met with enthusiastic response from those who stopped in to view it on the previous weekend. Coming in two weeks will be the spring meeting of Michigan Association of Retired School Personnel at the Ionia County Intermediate School District Building on Harwood Road. A visiting officer from Area 15 MARSP will help interpret any new aspects of the insurance program to be followed by lunch and the business meeting. Financial FOCUS Incoming president is Karen Merchant, retired from teaching at Palo Community School and also wife of retired Lakewood industrial arts teacher Ben Merchant. Lakewood students and teachers are on spring break this week. Tonight the weekly soup supper at Central United Methodist Church will be at the usual 4:30 to 6 p.m. time with the variation that at 6:30 the annual Maundy Thursday service for the host church is to be in the same room of the fellowship hall. Those who partake of the respite care program and the meal are invited to remain for the traditional service of the church. Attendance is increased enough for the weeks the supper has been held that the food planning has increased by 20 percent. Nearly half of the participants take out meals to be eaten at home. Local snowbirds are slowly returning. Jerry and Betty Bennett arrived last week and the next morning Jerry mowed his lawn. The Lake Odessa Community Library planned a full schedule for school children home on spring break. Events are planned for three age groups. The variety of trees planted downtown a few years ago are now at their best for the season. They line both sides of the street from Fourth Avenue east on Tupper Lake Street and on both sides of Fourth Avenue from Tupper Lake south to M-50. It is a sight to behold to be on the corner of Tupper and Fourth and look either south or east and see the beauty. An earlier variety of trees planted may years ago had outgrown their spaces and had to be removed. Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of Early IRA funding can pay off over time You’ve got until April 17 to contribute to your Individual Retirement Account (IRA) for the 2011 tax year. That’s not a lot of time, but if you have some money available, and you haven’t completely funded your IRA for 2011, consider doing so before the deadline. And once you’ve “maxed out” on your IRA for last year, why not get a jump on 2012? Actually, you could have started contributing to your 2012 IRA as early as Jan. 2. In fact, if you can get into the habit of fully funding your IRA each January, you’ll give your money 15 extra months of growth potential, as opposed to waiting until mid-April of the following year. If you factor in all the years you’ll be contributing to your IRA before you retire, those extra months of growth opportunities, repeated over decades, could end up providing you with a fair amount of extra cash when you start tapping into your IRA at retirement. Of course, you may not find it all that easy to come up with the full IRA contribution amount at one time. (In 2012, you can put up to $5,000 into a Roth or traditional IRA, or $6,000 if you’re 50 or older.) But if you look at your entire financial picture, you may be able to think of some resources. Here are a few suggestions: • Put your tax refund to work. In 2011, the average tax refund was about $3,000, accord- — NOTICE — SCHEDULE OF REGULAR MEETINGS PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP BOARDS 2012/2013 To members of Hastings Mutual Insurance Company, Hastings, Michigan: 77567001 All township meetings are held at the township hall unless otherwise noticed. Township Board: Regular scheduled meetings are held on the 2nd Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. unless otherwise posted. April 11, 2012 October 10, 2012 May 9, 2012 November 14, 2012 June 8, 2012 December 12, 2012 July 11, 2012 January 9, 2013 August 8, 2012 February 13, 2013 September 12, 2012 March 13, 2013 ing to the IRS. If you received that amount in 2012, and you applied it toward your IRA, you would already have met half the contribution limit (if you are 50 or older) or more than half (if you’re younger than 50). • Take advantage of interest payments or dividends. If you own income-producing investments, you may find that they can help you fund your IRA early. For example, if you own dividend-paying stocks, and you don’t typically reinvest the dividends, consider putting some of these funds into your IRA. (Keep in mind, though, that stocks can reduce or discontinue dividends at any time). And you can do the same thing with any interest payments you receive from bonds. • Put other “windfalls” into your IRA. If you receive a windfall, such as a bonus from your employer or a gift of cash, think about putting it into your IRA. If none of these options present themselves, and you can’t afford to write out a big check to fund your IRA very early in the year, do the best you can to reach the contribution limit as soon as possible. To make this happen, consider setting up a monthly automatic transfer from your checking or savings account into your IRA. Even if you were to divide these transfers into 15 equal payments totaling $5,000 (or $6,000 if you’re 50 or older), you would still be funding your IRA more quickly than if you would have scrambled to contribute in the last few months before the tax filing deadline. No matter when you do it, fully funding your IRA is a great way to help build resources for retirement. But the earlier, the better — so do whatever you can to beat that tax deadline each year. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 31.09 +.48 AT&T 31.43 -.21 BP PLC 44.51 -.39 CMS Energy Corp 22.38 +.40 Coca-Cola Co 73.76 +1.89 Eaton 49.39 -.73 Family Dollar Stores 63.52 +5.28 Fifth Third Bancorp 14.58 +.58 Flowserve CP 117.19 +.44 Ford Motor Co. 12.64 +.32 General Mills 39.64 +.53 General Motors 25.54 +.21 Intel Corp. 28.11 -.08 Kellogg Co. 53.38 +.27 McDonald’s Corp 99.40 +2.06 Pfizer Inc. 22.54 +.04 Ralcorp 73.05 -.40 Sears Holding 68.06 -5.44 Spartan Motors 5.15 -.36 Spartan Stores 17.97 -.42 Stryker 55.58 +.24 TCF Financial 11.86 -.35 Walmart Stores 60.65 -.44 Gold $1,645.68 -35.10 Silver $32.58 unchanged Dow Jones Average 13,200 +2 Volume on NYSE 772M +95M Notice is hereby given that the Annual Meeting of Hastings Mutual Insurance Company will be held at the Home Office, 404 East Woodlawn Avenue, Hastings, Michigan, on Wednesday, April 11, 2012, beginning at 9:00 a.m. Michael W. Puerner, Secretary 77566489 77566531 NOTICE The Barry County Board of Commissioners is seeking applications from volunteers to serve on the following Boards/Commissions: Planning Commission (2 positions) Parks and Recreation Board (1 position) Applications may be obtained at the County Administration Office, 3rd floor of the Courthouse, 220 W. State St., Hastings: or www.barrycounty.org; and must be returned no later than 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 18, 2012. Contact 269-945-1284 for more information. NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED ZONING AMENDMENTS Notice is hereby given that the Barry County Planning/Zoning Commission will conduct a public hearing on, April 23, 2012 at 7:00 PM in the Community Room of the Courts & Law Building located at 206 West Court Street in Hastings, Michigan. The subject of the public hearing will be the consideration of the following amendment to the Barry County Zoning Ordinance of 2008: MAP CHANGE A-3-2012 Request to rezone property in Section 33, Baltimore Township (see map below). From MU (Mixed Use) to RR (Rural Residential) - (Shaded Area) All of the above mentioned property is located in Barry County, Michigan. Legal Description: Commence at the centerline of S M-37 Hwy. and the North line of Sec. 33 of Baltimore Township, Thence South 21 rods, th S’ly 40 rods to POB. Thence W’ly 346.5 feet, thence SW’ly 650 feet, th S 16 degrees W 556 feet to the shore of Clear Lake, thence E’ly along the shore 240 feet, thence NE’ly 280 feet to the south line of Cabin Lane, thence NE’ly along said south line to the centerline of S M-37 Hwy, th NE’ly along the centerline of S M-37 Hwy. to POB. Interested persons desiring to present their views on the proposed amendments, either verbally or in writing will be given the opportunity to be heard at the above mentioned time and place. Any written response may be mailed to the address listed below, faxed to (269) 948-4820 or email to: jmcmanus@barrycounty.org. The proposed amendment of the Barry County Zoning Ordinance is available for public inspection at the Barry County Planning Office, 220 W State St, in Hastings, MI, between the hours of 8 AM to 5 PM (closed between 12-1 PM) Monday thru Friday. Please call the Barry County Planning Office at (269) 945-1290 for further information. The County of Barry will provide necessary auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/ hearing upon ten (10) days notice to the County of Barry. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the County of Barry by writing or call the following: Michael Brown, County Administrator, 220 W State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 - (269) 945-1284. Pamela A. Jarvis, Barry County Clerk EDWARD JONES 77566997 Improving on the staff of life by Dr. E. Kirsten Peters About 10,000 years ago, Earth’s climate lurched from bitter ice age conditions to the much balmier time in which we live today. We don’t fully understand what caused that great climate shift, but we do know it was near the time of that great temperature transition that people started to farm. And one of the crops people in some parts of the globe learned to tend was wheat. In the Western world, our love affair with wheat is as intense as it is old. Peasants have lived on bread and not much else, and even those of us with a grocery store full of options at our disposal are likely to have at least some wheat products each day. Unfortunately, about 2 percent of Americans suffer from celiac disease, a malady triggered by gluten proteins such as those found in wheat. It’s a serious condition that erodes necessary structures in the intestines called microvilli. Symptoms of celiac disorder range from diarrhea to long-term malnutrition because nutrients are not absorbed and transferred to the bloodstream as they should be. The only treatment for celiac disease is to avoid eating gluten. That’s a tall order because wheat and wheat byproducts are in a wide variety of foods. To avoid eating any wheat requires constant vigilance and a lot of home-cooking. That’s why it would be ideal if new wheat strains could be developed that didn’t contain the proteins that cause the malady in the first place, Enter Professor Diter von Wettstein of Washington State University. Von Wettstein came to this country from Denmark in 1996 when regulations there forced him to retire owing to age. Here in the land of the free, von Wettstein can pursue research into wheat strains and celiac disease. “Retirement should mean you get to do what you think is fun,” he said to me recently. “I think research is fun.” At age 82, von Wettstein shows no sign of slowing down. In addition to running a research laboratory of seven, he returns to Europe from time to time to see his family — and ski in Austria. “I had to give up downhill skiing,” he said with regret. “Too many surgeries on my hip. But I still do cross-country.” Like many serious research groups in this country, von Wettstein’s research lab is highly international. The team includes men and women from China, Chile and Ghana. The group is hard at work, changing wheat so that it won’t cause celiac disease. Wheat is full of a mixture of proteins, a number of which can cause problems in people with celiac. Six proteins are needed for giving bread its baking properties, but about 150 proteins are not needed. Using advanced genetic techniques, von Wettstein and his team are shaping wheat strains to have fewer and fewer of the problematic proteins. At the moment, winter wheat is growing on an experimental farm not far from where I work. That wheat has “silenced” 60 to 70 percent of the proteins that attack the microvilli. Von Wettstein is confident that in time that proportion will reach 100 percent. “I wouldn’t work on this problem if I didn’t think we could solve it,” he said. Some other potential avenues of research are being explored that could help celiac sufferers. One is to find an enzyme that would break down the problematic proteins while food was still in the stomach. Von Wettstein’s group is looking for enzymes that could be added to bread before it’s baked. If the enzymes withstood the temperature of baking in an oven, then they could go to work in the stomach where celiac patients don’t have problems, sparing the crucial intestines. We’ve had a long and wondrous love affair with wheat. For myself, it’s tough to imagine what celiac sufferers live with each day. Here’s hoping that with some further scientific research, all of us will be able to enjoy a good slice of bread, some noodle soup or a piece of cake. Dr. E. Kirsten Peters, a native of the rural Northwest, was trained as a geologist at Princeton and Harvard universities. Follow her online at rockdoc.wsu.edu and on Twitter @RockDocWSU. This column is a service of the College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences at Washington State University. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, April 5, 2012 — Page 9 Survey indicates motorists think distracted drivers more likely to crash Bills would improve public safety The news of 1920, part 2 The following story was published in the Nov. 13, 1952 Hastings Banner and written by M.L. Cook. ***** The crowded condition of Pennock Hospital while it occupied the Striker home, corner of Green and Jefferson, and the fact that patients could not be taken because of lack of room, had proven the urgent need of much larger quarters. The Banner of Aug. 26 tells that Chester Messer, R.B. Messer and Emil Tyden offered to donate $10,000 each toward a hospital building, and the two Messers offered to donate the beautiful site where the hospital now stands, if the citizens of Hastings would raise the balance needed. The Pennock bequest had been so well cared for by Philo Sheldon, father of the late Henry Sheldon, that the $20,000 given by Mr. and Mrs. Pennock had grown to $25,000. The generous offer of the three men brought to $55,000 the cash available for this needed structure. Building costs were much less than now. So a determined effort to raise the balance was made under the leadership of Kellar Stem, who gave $5,000 for the bookcase, and secured from outside friends donations of furniture and furnishing for the rooms and wards. So Hastings secured its hospital. Mr. and Mrs. Stem worked out the plan of having hospital guilds to furnish money and supplies needed for the hospital. And that plan has spelled success for the institution. The Messers also gave large sums to endow the institution, as did the widow of Dr. Fuller. Others have made gifts also; the latest being $1,000 donated by the late Mrs. E.A. Burton. An addition, costing $500,000 has doubled the capacity of the hospital, which is now a Barry County institution. It needs a much larger endowment. D.R. Foster, carrier on Rural Route 3 for 17 years, retired Friday, being then 65 years of age. The department has ruled that retirement is compulsory when a carrier reaches that age. He has lost but one day on account of sickness. He knows how to use a snow shovel, and has often done a lot of that kind of work to serve the people on his route. The Banner of Sept. 9, 1920, was happy to announce that John C. Ketcham, of this city, was nominated for congressman in this district at the primary election Tuesday. He had 3,300 more votes than any other candidate. Barry County gave him a majority of 2,640. According to the Banner of Oct. 14, 1920, Barry County paid nearly $4,000 in bounties in the three months ending Sept. 30 for the killing of woodchucks, crows, hawks, owls and weasels. In number and amount, woodchucks led the list. County Treasurer Joseph Campbell paid $2,229.50 for the killing of 6,459 chucks. The Banner of Oct. 21 records with great pleasure the gift of $1,000 for the new Pennock Hospital by Mr. and Mrs. Charles S. Bristol, of Johnstown. They recognize that the hospital will serve Barry County as well as the city of Hastings. Two very interesting relics were found by Chas. Beach 20 feet below the surface, in a gravel pit on the farm of Daniel C. Warner, in Baltimore Township. The Banner of Oct. 28, 1920 tells about the find and describes the two relics. Mr. Beach has the contract for covering a nearby road with gravel. He found two hollowed stones, about two feet in diameter. They were no doubt made for grinding grain. Where they were discovered would prove that they were buried during the ice age, which buried Michigan with sand and gravel several thousand years ago. The Indians who occupied Michigan before white settlers came used a hollow stone and a stone pestle to grind their grain. The two hollowed stones found by Mr. Beach were not used in that manner. The inside of one of them and the outside of the other were each grooved. The one with the outside grooving was moved by some sort of power. The result would be that these grooved surfaces would, when one was moving, grind the grain. There was a small hole in the bottom of the one with the inner grooving, permitting the ground material to go through the opening. It can be seen that the makers of these mill stones could do a far better job than the Indians could with a hollow stone and a stone pestle. Whoever made these two hollowed and grooved stones must have been far more intelligent than the Indians. Who can guess how long ago it was that they were formed? Mr. Beach said the two stones were broken into pieces when found, but it was not difficult to fit them together and thus learn what they were intended to do. Mr. Beach promised to bring these two stones to the Banner office, to be displayed in our front window, but he never did. Probably he was busy and, as the stones were broken, he did not think they would be fit to exhibit. The unfortunate thing is that it never occurred to the writer, nor to Mr. Beach, nor to anyone who read the article when we then published, to have the University of Michigan send some one here to investigate, then cement the stones together, then put them in the museum at Ann Arbor. The Banner of Nov. 4 announces the overwhelming election of Warren Harding as president. He was the only president I ever visited with. Congressman Ketcham introduced me to him. When he learned that I was the editor of the weekly newspaper, he was interested at once. We could and did talk shop. He owned and edited a daily paper in Marion, Ohio, and prospered. He seemed to me such a kind, lovable man, whose aim was to do right. He trusted his political friends too much. He named Senator Fall of New Mexico and an Ohio friend to high places in his cabinet. They used their positions corruptly for their own benefit, which scandalized the nation and probably caused Harding’s untimely death. I believe he desired to serve this country faithfully. The Banner of Nov. 11 reports that John Ketcham was elected to Congress by a majority of over 32,000. No doubt due to the destructive cyclones that swept eastern as well as western Michigan March 28 this year, the Windstorm Company, of this city, has written over $82 million new insurance in 1920. Fred McNair, who lived on his small farm east of this city, on the road to the county farm, burned to death Saturday when fire destroyed his house. He was well known in this city. NOTICE TO BIDDERS BARRY COUNTY ROAD COMMISSION The Barry County Road Commission is offering for sale two 2011 GMC 1/2 ton crew Cab SLE pickups. Sealed proposals will be received at the office of the Barry County Road Commission, 1725 West M-43 Highway, P.O. Box 158, Hastings, MI 49058, until 4:00 PM, Tuesday, April 17, 2012 for the following items. Specifications and additional information may be obtained at the Road Commission Office at the above address or at our website www.barrycrc.org. 2-2011 GMC 1/2 ton Crew Cab SLE pickups 5.3 Liter 6 speeds 4 WD, Air, Cruise, PW & Locks, Keyless remote, Towing Package 1 Summit White, approx. 15,000 MilesMinimum Bid $24,000 1 Stealth Gray, approx. 10,000 MilesMinimum Bid $24,500 The board reserves the right to reject any or all proposals or to waive irregularities in the best interest of the Commission. BARRY COUNTY ROAD COMMISSIONERS OF THE COUNTY OF BARRY Frank M. Fiala, Chairman David D. Dykstra, Member D. David Solmes, Member 77566637 A few weeks ago, Gov. Rick Snyder delivered a special message on public safety to a group of law enforcement officials in Flint. As a former sheriff, I could not be more pleased with what he had to say in his address. Michigan has four of the most dangerous cities in America, and the governor charted an immediate course of action to help to curb crimes rates in these cities and across Michigan. In order to help reduce the crime rate, the fiscal year 2013 executive budget called for $15 million to go to the Michigan State Police for two trooper recruit schools, for a total addition of 180 troopers, to serve as a force multiplier and ensure the MSP has the staffing to partner with local and federal law enforcement to secure these four cities. I am happy that the MSP has been given increased funding. However, when the budget is finalized, I would like to see increased funding for sheriff’s department deputies and local police officers, as well. Gov. Snyder offered specifics on a number of the particular problems that are facing cities across the state and laid out new policies and procedures in hopes of educating citizens of the high rate of certain crimes. It was crystal clear that combating domestic violence and sexual assault must become a priority across Michigan. The speech highlighted the dangerous and direct correlation between these two crimes and called for more training and an updated sexual assault evidence kit to help officers recognize the signs of domestic violence and to help convict more offenders. I am hopeful these steps, paired with legislation I introduced in the Senate (Senate Bills 845-848) that gives judges the ability to use prior domestic violence convictions to issue longer jail sentences to repeat offenders, will help reduce domestic violence and sexual assault. Prescription drug trafficking and the many problems that drugs continue to cause in every community were also mentioned by the governor. The governor addressed the problem of drug seekers who lie to doctors to get prescriptions, such as vicodin, in order to resell them. Thankfully, the Legislature passed Public Act 44, which allows for greater electronic monitoring by pharmacies of individuals in order to help reduce this problem. However, in order to continue to lessen drug abuse among Michigan citizens, we must be able to act swiftly as new drugs hit the market. This is why I sponsored SB 789, which allows the Michigan Board of Pharmacy to temporarily ban new synthetic drugs until the Legislature has time to act. This ensures these drugs are rapidly taken off the shelf to protect citizens from dangerous chemicals. I am happy to see that the governor is taking public safety seriously and is making it a priority in the fiscal year 2013 budget. I look forward to the implementation of polices put forth by Gov. Snyder and the positive effect they will have on villages, cities and towns across Michigan. More than 80 percent of Michigan motorists believe that drivers talking on cell phones are more likely to be involved in a crash, despite the fact more than 56 percent admittedly make and accept cell phone calls while driving, according to a statewide phone survey conducted for the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning. The percentage jumps to nearly 96 percent when asked about potential crash involvement for drivers who are texting or emailing while driving. According to Michigan crash data, nearly 4,000 crashes in 2010 listed the driver condition as distracted. Cell phone use was indicated in 881 crashes. The 600-sample telephone survey was conducted by Glengariff Group Inc. in advance of April’s National Districted Driving Awareness Month. Those surveyed were asked about driving habits, cell phone use and texting while driving, Michigan’s texting law and their stance on cell phone legislation. “It appears drivers are aware of the dangers of being distracted by cell phones and texting,” said Michael L. Prince, OHSP director. “But the ability and pressure to be constantly connected and available seem to trump traffic safety as motorists continue to talk and text while driving.” More than 42 percent of the phone survey respondents believe a texting driver is as dangerous as a drunk driver, while 33 percent believed that drivers talking on cell phones were as dangerous as drunk drivers. Although Michigan law prohibits drivers from reading, manually typing or sending a text message while driving, 8.2 percent of respondents admitted to sending texts and emails while driving and nearly a quarter of that group indicated they did so daily. More than 17 percent of respondents said they looked at incoming texts and emails while driving, and 19.4 percent of them did this daily. Age appears to play a role in distractions in the vehicle, with respondents under age 30 being significantly more likely to groom themselves, use their cell phone to make and receive calls, or send and receive texts or emails while driving. A copy of the survey results can be viewed at www.michigan.gov/ohsp. NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED ZONING AMENDMENTS Notice is hereby given that the Barry County Planning/Zoning Commission will conduct a public hearing on, April 23, 2012 at 7:00 PM in the Community Room of the Courts & Law Building located at 206 West Court Street in Hastings, Michigan. The subject of the public hearing will be the consideration of the following amendment to the Barry County Zoning Ordinance of 2008: MAP CHANGE A-2-2012 Request to rezone property in Section 28, Barry Township (see map below). From MU (Mixed Use) to RR (Rural Residential) - (Shaded Area) All of the above mentioned property is located in Barry County, Michigan. Legal Description: Part of the NW 1/4 of Sec. 28, T1N, R9W, Barry Township described as: Commencing at the N 1/4 post of said Sec. 28; th S 00 degrees 14’ 25” W along the North and South 1/4 line of said Section, 910.02 ft; th N 89 degrees 23’ 50” W, along the S line of the Consumers Power Company Right-of-Way, 226.53 ft to the true place of beginning; th S 00 degrees 14’ 25” W, 516.23 ft; th S 89 degrees 22’ 09” E, 28.53 ft; th S 00 degrees 14’ 25” W, 963.05 ft to a point which lies 251.45 ft N of the East and West 1/4 line of said Section 28; th N 89 degrees 22’ 09” W, parallel with said 1/4 line, 330.14 ft; th S 00 degrees 12’ 27” W, 251.46 ft; th N 89 degrees 22’ 09” W, along said East and West 1/4 line, 66.00 ft; th N 00 degrees 12’ 27” E, 251.46 ft; th N 89 degrees 22’ 09” W, parallel with said 1/4 line, 362.84 ft to a point which is 366.32 ft E of the W line of the East 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of said Section; th N 00 degrees 08’ 42” W, 315.64 ft; th N 89 degrees 25’ 08” W, 363.70 ft to said West line; th N 00 degrees 19’ 49” E, along said W line, 753.28 ft to the S line of the N 1/2 of said NW 1/4; th N 00 degrees 19’ 49” E, 410.06 ft to said South line of Consumers Power Company Right-of-Way; th S 89 degrees 23’ 50” E, along said S line 1094.45 ft to the place of beginning. Interested persons desiring to present their views on the proposed amendments, either verbally or in writing will be given the opportunity to be heard at the above mentioned time and place. Any written response may be mailed to the address listed below, faxed to (269) 948-4820 or email to: jmcmanus@barrycounty.org. The proposed amendment of the Barry County Zoning Ordinance is available for public inspection at the Barry County Planning Office, 220 W State St, in Hastings, MI, between the hours of 8 AM to 5 PM (closed between 12-1 PM) Monday thru Friday. Please call the Barry County Planning Office at (269) 945-1290 for further information. The County of Barry will provide necessary auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/ hearing upon ten (10) days notice to the County of Barry. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the County of Barry by writing or call the following: Michael Brown, County Administrator, 220 W State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 - (269) 945-1284. Pamela A. Jarvis, Barry County Clerk 77566995 �Page 10 — Thursday, April 5, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Janine Jordan, an unmarried woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 15, 2008, and recorded on May 15, 2008 in instrument 20080515-0005227, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Six Thousand Seven Hundred Eleven and 76/100 Dollars ($106,711.76). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 3, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Maple Grove, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Being known and designated as the Southwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 18, Town 2 North, Range 7 West, Maple Grove Township, Barry County, Michigan and Less and except all that parcel of land conveyed to Willian C. Vance and Susan K. Vance as more fully described in Doc No. 1169612 containing the West 330 feet of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 18, Town 2 North, Range 7 West The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #397760F01 77566741 (04-05)(04-26) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Curt G. Griffis AKA Curtis G. Griffis II and Tonya A. Griffis Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to National City Mortgage a division of National City Bank of Indiana, Mortgagee, dated December 30, 2005, and recorded on January 4, 2006 in instrument 1158517, and assigned by said Mortgagee to National City Mortgage Company as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eighty-Six Thousand Two Hundred Ninety-One and 34/100 Dollars ($186,291.34). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 3, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Unit No. 16, Whispering Pines Estates Condominium according to the Master Deed Recorded in Liber 1023989, as amended, and designated as Barry County Condominium Subdivision Plan No. 12, together with rights in the general common elements and the limited common elements as shown on the Master Deed and as described in Act 59 of the Public Acts of 1978, as amended. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #348835F02 77566791 (04-05)(04-26) AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTIFY US AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by Randall M Royalty , A Single Person, Mortgagors, to Bank of America, N.A., , Mortgagee, dated the 25th day of March, 2009 and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, for The County of Barry and State of Michigan, on the 6th day of April, 2009 in Doc# 20090406-0003820 of Barry County Records, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, the sum of Two Hundred Twenty Eight Thousand Six Hundred Four and 48/100 ($228,604.48), and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on the 19th day of April, 2012 at 1:00 o’clock pm Local Time, said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI (that being the building where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held), of the premises described in said mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due, as aforesaid on said mortgage, with interest thereon at 4.875% per annum and all legal costs, charges, and expenses, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sum or sums which may be paid by the undersigned, necessary to protect its interest in the premises. Which said premises are described as follows: All that certain piece or parcel of land, including any and all structures, and homes, manufactured or otherwise, located thereon, situated in the City of Delton, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and described as follows, to wit: Commencing at the West 1/4 Post of Section 12, T1N; R9W, thence North along the West line of said Section 1389 feet thence East 156 feet to center of Road for true point of beginning, thence N parallel with section line to shore of Fair Lake thence West along Lake shore to a point 50 feet East of West Section line; thence South parallel to said line to center of road; thence Southeasterly along center of road to point of beginning. Excepting and reserving the Southerly 33 feet to be used in common with other adjacent property owners for roadway purposes only. Intended to describe the East 106 feet of the West 156 feet of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 12 lying South of Fair Lake and Northerly of centerline of existing road. During the six (6) months immediately following the sale, the property may be redeemed, except that in the event that the property is determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241a, the property may be redeemed during 30 days immediately following the sale. Pursuant to MCLA 600.3278, the mortgagor(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 3/22/2012 Bank of America, N.A., as successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP, 7105 Corporate Dr., Mail Stop PTX-C35, Plano, TX 75024 Mortgagee FABRIZIO & BROOK, P.C. Attorney for Bank of America, N.A., as successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP, 7105 Corporate Dr., Mail Stop PTX-C35, Plano, TX 75024 888 W. Big Beaver, Suite 800 Troy, Ml 48084 248-362-2600 77566544 BOA FNMA Royalty (03-22)(04-12) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Tracie Farrah and Jamie Farrah, Wife and Husband, to Bayrock Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated August 31, 2005 and recorded September 8, 2005 in Instrument Number 1152444, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, successor in interest to Bank of America, National Association as successor by merger to LaSalle Bank National Association, as Trustee for Certificateholders of Bear Stearns Asset Backed Securities I LLC, Asset Backed-Certificates, Series 2005-HE12 by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Thousand Two Hundred Sixty-One and 72/100 Dollars ($200,261.72) including interest at 8.425% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on MAY 3, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The East 1385 feet of the North one-half of the South one-half of the Northwest one-quarter of Section 29, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, Hope Township, Barry County, Michigan, except the North 440 feet thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: April 5, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 199.3674 775669190 (04-05)(04-26) Synopsis ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP BUDGET HEARING March 28, 2012 Meeting called to order at 7:00. All board members present. Also present Fire Chief Boulter. Open budget hearing. Budget review. Approved road improvements in the amount of $389,963 for 2012. Approve resolution to establish officer’s salary. Approved 2012/2013 budget as presented. Approved motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 8:00. Unapproved minutes Jennifer Goy, Clerk Attested to by Thomas Rook, Supervisor 77566999 FORECLOSURE NOTICE (ALL COUNTIES) AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTIFY (248) 362-6100 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by Janice F Kramer, a single woman of Barry County, Michigan, Mortgagor to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. dated the 10th day of July, 2008, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, for the County of Barry and State of Michigan, on the 18th day of July, 2008, in Instrument No. 20080718-0007344 of Barry Records, which said mortgage was assigned to The Huntington National Bank, thru mesne assignments, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, for principal of $168,137.47 (one hundred sixty-eight thousand one hundred thirty-seven and 47/100) plus accrued interest at 6.875% (six point eight seven five) percent per annum. And no suit proceedings at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to the statue of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on, the 26th day of April, 2012, at 1:00:00 PM said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI, Barry County, Michigan, of the premises described in said mortgage. Which said premises are described as follows: All that certain piece or parcel of land situate in the Township of Barry, in the County of Barry and State of Michigan and described as follows to wit: Situated in the Township of Barry, County of Barry and State of Michigan: Lot 11 of Poplar Beach, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 14, Barry Township, Barry County, Michigan. Commonly known as: 6894 Shoreline Drive, fka 6802 South Shore Drive Tax Parcel No.: 03-105008-00 The redemption period shall be six months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: March 29, 2012 By: Foreclosing Attorneys Attorney for Plaintiff Weltman, Weinberg & Reis Co., L.P.A. 2155 Butterfield Drive, Suite 200-S Troy, MI 48084 WWR# 10089762 (03-29)(04-19) 77566733 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Richard A. Hansma, a married man and Laurie J. KozaHansma, his wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns., Mortgagee, dated September 8, 2004 and recorded September 14, 2004 in Instrument Number 1133890, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Bank of America, N.A., as successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. FKA Countrywide Home Loans Servicing L.P by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Five Thousand Four Hundred Eighty-Five and 86/100 Dollars ($95,485.86) including interest at 6.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on APRIL 19, 2012. Said premises are located in the Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel located in the Township of Thornapple and Village of Middleville, County of Barry, State of Michigan, to wit: Lot 31 of Middleville Downs Addition Number 2 to the Village of Middleville, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 13, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: March 22, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 617.9829 77566601 (03-22)(04-12) SYNOPSIS Barry Township Board Regular Meeting & Public Hearings for 2012-13 Budget & Water base increase March 6, 2012 Public Hearing for 2012-13 Budget opened at 6:15 p.m. Closed at 6:45 p.m. Public Hearing for water base increase opened at 6:46 p.m. Closed at 6:50 p.m. Regular meeting opened at 7:00 p.m. ROLL CALL: 5 board members and 6 guests. Motion approved minutes and Treasurers reports for February 2012. Motion approved agenda with 3 additions. Received Department reports. Motion approved to maintain sustainable water meter replacement plan. Motion approved to increase the water base rate 12%. Motion approved to adopt Resolutions 12-01, 1202-12-03. Motion approved to contract with I.T. Right, Inc. Motion approved to appoint M. Hennessy as twp. library board representative. Motion approved bills and check register for March 2012. Adjourned at 8:44 p.m. Respectfully, Debra J. Knight, Barry Township Clerk Attested to by: Wesley Kahler, Barry Township Supervisor 77566907 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY Circuit Court - Family Division PUBLICATION OF NOTICE OF HEARING FILE NO. 11-25872-TV In the matter of Horace O. Price and Agnes M. Price Trust, u/t/a dated August 24, 1991. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS including: Julie Barrone Cridler whose address(es) are unknown and whose interest in the matter may be barred or affected by the following: TAKE NOTICE: A hearing will be held on April 25, 2012 at 10:30 a.m. at 206 W. Court Street, Ste. 302, Hastings, MI 49058 before Judge William M. Doherty P41960 for the following purpose: Petition for Release of Social Security Number. Date: March 29, 2012 Law Weathers Stephanie S. Fekkes P43549 150 W. Court Street Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 945-1921 Hastings City Bank 150 W. Court Street Hastings, MI 49058 77566892 (269) 945-2401 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Ryan G. Markley and Nicole L. Markley, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, Mortgagee, dated October 28, 2008, and recorded on October 30, 2008 in instrument 20081030-0010608, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixteen Thousand Seven Hundred ThirtySix and 91/100 Dollars ($116,736.91). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 3, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 11, Block 49, Village of Middleville, according to the recorded plat thereof in Liber 1 of Plats, on Plage 27. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #393068F01 775666897 (04-05)(04-26) SYNOPSIS PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP Regular Meeting March 14, 2012 Supervisor J. Stoneburner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Present: Supervisor J. Stoneburner, Clerk J. Owens, Treasurer K. McGuire, Trustee Grundy and Trustee R. Goebel Absent: none Also present were 11 guests. Pledge of allegiance and a moment of silence for our troops. Agenda was approved with changes. Minutes were presented to the Board and approved. Correspondence: None Barry County Commissioner gave report. Fire Departments report was placed on file. Police Department report was placed on file. Approved to hire Tyler Dimick as Prairieville Township, part time Reserve Officer, effective 4/2/12. Supervisor’s Report was received. Treasurer’s Report was received. Clerk’s Report was received. Approve to pay Township bills for $43,191.43. Approved Resolution Adopting Amended ByLaws for the Prairieville Township Fire Department. Approved the Prairieville Township Employment Contract between the Township of Prairieville and William Thompson for a one year period beginning April 1, 2012. Approved the Sexton Contract between Prairieville Township and Adams & Sons for a one year term beginning April 1, 2012 and ending on March 31, 2013. Approved to appoint Rod Goebel to the SWBCSWA. Approved the contract between Prairieville Township and Siegfried Crandall PC for a one year term, for the year ended March 31, 2013, for auditing services. Authorized the insurance plan for eligible employees to be Priority Health HMO 80-2. Approved the Payments Not Requiring Board Approval List, as amended. The Budget Workshop will be March 20, 2012; 2pm The Annual Meeting/Budget Hearing will be March 28, 2012; 7pm Discussion on Farmers Market. Public comments were received. Board comments were received. Meeting adjourned at 8:09 p.m. Submitted by: Jill Owens, Clerk Attested to by: 77567007 Jim Stoneburner, Supervisor Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Nicholas D. Blakely, a married man and Tiffany C. Blakely, signing for sole purpose of waiving her dower and homestead rights, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated November 30, 2005, and recorded on December 13, 2005 in instrument 1157561, and assigned by said Mortgagee to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Two Thousand Two Hundred Fifty-Two and 59/100 Dollars ($102,252.59), including interest at 7.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on April 12, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 10 of R.B. Gregg Addition, Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan according to the recorded plat thereof as recorded in Liber 1 of plats, Page 13, Barry County Records The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 15, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #345976F02 77566309 (03-15)(04-05) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Gregory M. Gillson and Cheryl L. Gillson, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated October 24, 2001, and recorded on November 1, 2001 in instrument 1069072, in Barry county records, Michigan, and assigned by said Mortgagee to M&T Bank as assignee, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Seven Thousand Four Hundred Five and 06/100 Dollars ($97,405.06), including interest at 7.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on April 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 16, Old Farm Village, according to the recorded Plat thereof in Liber 6 of Plats, on Page 22 Barry County Records The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 22, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #395848F01 77566596 (03-22)(04-12) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, April 5, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES Notice of Foreclosure Sale THIS LAW FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. MORTGAGE SALE - Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by Richard L. Warner and Judy A. Warner of Barry County, Michigan, Mortgagors, unto Consumers Credit Union, Mortgagee, dated the 27th day of August, 2004, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deed for the County of Barry and State of Michigan on the 3rd day of September, 2004, in Liber 1133469 of Barry County Records, on Pages 1-9, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, at the date of this notice, for principal and interest, the sum of $206,684.32. And no suit or proceeding at law or in equity have been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to the statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on Thursday, April 19, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. local time, said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder or bidders, for cash at the Barry County Courthouse, Hastings, Michigan, that being the place where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held, of the premises described in said mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due, as aforesaid on said mortgage, with interest thereon at 8.99% per annum and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and also any sum or sums which may be paid by the undersigned, necessary to protect its interest in the premises, which said premises are situated in the Township of Barry, County of Barry, and described as follows: Commencing at the North 1/4 post of Section 8, Town 1 North, Range 9 West; Thence South 01 degree 21 minutes 00 seconds East along the North and South 1/4 line of said Section, 1320.96 feet; Thence South 89 degrees 50 minutes 00 seconds East along the North line of the South 1/2 of the Northeast 1/4 of said Section 8, a distance of 813.47 feet; Then South 37 degrees 13 minutes 48 seconds East, 95.34 feet; Thence South 34 degrees 25 minutes 30 seconds East, 112.31 feet; Thence South 39 degrees 29 minutes 34 seconds East, 62.81 feet; Thence South 40 degrees 47 minutes 17 seconds East, 20.46 feet; Then South 42 degrees 14 minutes 35 seconds East, 515.75 feet; Thence South 52 degrees 43 minutes 27 seconds East, 169.55 feet to the true place of beginning; Thence North 36 degrees 38 minutes 32 seconds East, 113.03 feet to a traverse line along the shore of Pleasant Lake; Thence South 63 degrees 42 minutes 41 seconds East, along said traverse line 54.00 feet to the end of said traverse line; Thence South 38 degrees 05 minutes 37 seconds West, 123.33 feet; Thence North 52 degrees 43 minutes 27 seconds West, 50.00 feet to the place of beginning. Intending to include all land between the above described traverse line and the waters edge of Pleasant Lake. Together with and subject to: Easement 1: An easement for ingress and egress over a strip of land 30 feet wide described as: commencing at the North 1/4 post of Section 8, Town 1 North, Range 9 West; Thence South 01 degree 21 minutes 00 seconds East along the North and South 1/4 line of said Section, 1320.96 feet to the place of beginning; Thence South 89 degrees 50 minutes 00 seconds East along the North line of the South 1/2 of the Northeast 1/4 of said Section 8, a distance of 813.47 feet; Thence South 37 degrees 13 minutes 48 seconds East, 37.76 feet; Thence North 89 degrees 50 minutes 00 seconds West, 835.61 feet to said North and South 1/4 line; Thence North 01 degree 21 minutes 00 seconds West along said 1/4 line, 30.01 feet to the place of beginning. Easement 2: An easement for ingress and egress over a strip of land 16.50 feet wide described as: commencing at the North 1/2 post of Section 8, Town 1 North, Range 9 West; Thence South 01 degree 21 minutes 00 seconds East along the North and South 1/4 line of said Section, 1320.96 feet; Thence South 89 degrees 50 minutes 00 seconds East along the North line of the South 1/2 of the Northeast 1/4 of said Section 8, a distance of 813.47 feet; Thence South 37 degrees 13 minutes 48 seconds East, 37.76 feet to the true place of beginning; Thence South 37 degrees 13 minutes 38 seconds East 57.57 feet; Thence South 34 degrees 25 minutes 30 seconds East, 112.31 feet; Thence South 39 degrees 29 minutes 34 seconds East, 62.81 feet; Thence South 40 degrees 47 minutes 17 seconds East, 176.21 feet; Thence South 42 degrees 14 minutes 35 seconds East, 360.00 feet; Thence South 52 degrees 43 minutes 26 seconds East, 269.55 feet; Thence South 59 degrees 00 minutes 18 seconds East, 200.00 feet; Thence South 43 degrees 36 minutes 32 seconds West, 16.91 feet; Thence North 59 degrees 00 minutes 18 seconds West, 197.21 feet; Thence North 52 degrees 43 minutes 26 seconds West, 271.97 feet; Thence North 42 degrees 14 minutes 35 seconds West, 361.65 feet; Thence North 40 degrees 47 minutes 17 seconds West, 176.67 feet; Thence North 39 degrees 29 minutes 34 seconds West, 63.37 feet; Thence North 34 degrees 25 minutes 30 seconds West, 112.64 feet; Thence North 37 degrees 13 minutes 48 seconds West, 69.78 feet; Thence South 89 degrees 50 minutes 00 seconds East, 20.76 feet to the place of beginning. Property address: 11389 S. West Shore Drive, Delton, MI 49046 The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241 a, in which case the redemption period shall be thirty days from the date of such sale. Dated: March 8, 2012 Tyren R. Cudney (P46638) Attorney for Mortgagee DRAFTED BY: Tyren R. Cudney Lennon, Miller, O’Connor & Bartosiewicz, PLC. 900 Comerica Building Kalamazoo, MI 49007/(269) 381-8844 77566392 Call 945-9554 anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads Case No. 11-466-CH Notice of Judicial Foreclosure Sale on a Default Judgment and Judgment of Foreclosure Against Defendants Teresa J. Lindsey, f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker and Shana Ciampa NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to the terms of a Default Judgment and Judgment of Foreclosure of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan signed and filed on January 17, 2012, in the case of Eaton Federal Savings Bank, Plaintiff v Teresa J. Lindsey, f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker and Shana Ciampa, Defendants, Case No. 11-466-CH, wherein, among other things, the Court allowed the foreclosure of a mortgage granted by Teresa J. Lindsey f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker (Mortgagor) to Eaton Federal Savings Bank on September 27, 2007 and recorded October 4, 2007 at Instrument No. 200710040002745, pages 1 through 10, Barry County Records, against the Mortgagor. Pursuant to the Default Judgment and Judgment for Foreclosure, the mortgaged premises shall be sold at a public auction by or under the direction of Clerk or Sheriff for the County of Barry to the highest bidder at the main entrance to the Barry County Courthouse, 220 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 on Thursday, May 17, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., local time. The following described “Mortgaged Premises”: Parcel 1: Lot 13 of Standley’s First Addition to Fine Lake Park, Johnstown Township, Barry County, Michigan, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, on Page 31, Also, beginning at the Southeast corner of Lot 13 of Standley’s First Addition to Fine Lake Park, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, on Page 31; thence North 26 degrees East along the Easterly line of Lots 13 and 14 of said Plat, 100.00 feet, thence South 82 degrees 54 minutes East 50.00 feet; thence South 26 degrees West, 100.00 feet; thence North 82 degrees 54 minutes West 50.00 feet to the point of beginning. Parcel 2: Beginning at the Southwest corner of Lot 8 of Fine Lake Park, Johnstown Township, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof; thence Northeasterly along the East Shore of Fine Lake to a point 10 feet from said place of beginning; thence Easterly to a point on the Easterly line of said Lot which is 3 feet North of the Southeast corner of said Lot; thence Southerly along the East line of said Lot to the Southeast corner thereof; thence Westerly along the South line of said Lot to the place of beginning. The Mortgaged Premises, whose address is 823 East Shore Drive, Battle Creek, Michigan, 49017, also include all right, title and interests held by Teresa J. Lindsey f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker as of September 27, 2007, in the Mortgaged Premises. The Premises may be redeemed during the six (6) months following the date of sale. BODMAN PLC By: Sandra L. Jasinski (P37430) Attorneys for Eaton Federal Savings Bank 229 Court Street, P.O. Box 405 Cheboygan, Michigan 49721 (231) 627-8000 Date: March 29, 2012 Dates of publication: March 29, April 5, 12, 19, 26, 77566696 May 3, and 10, 2012. Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Barry Joe Roscoe and Christine Ann Roscoe husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 4, 2007, and recorded on April 23, 2007 in instrument 1179609, and modified by Affidavit or Order recorded on March 13, 2012 in instrument 201203130002590, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Wells Fargo Bank, NA as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty Thousand Six Hundred Thirty-Seven and 49/100 Dollars ($120,637.49), including interest at 6.75% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on April 26, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Maple Grove, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Southeast Corner of Section 6, Town 2 North, Range 7 West, Thence North 00 degrees 19 minutes 12 seconds East 1081.83 feet to point of beginning; thence North 88 degrees 56 minutes 30 seconds West 165 feet; thence South 00 degrees 19 minutes 12 seconds West 148.5 feet; thence North 88 degrees 56 minutes 30 seconds West 80 feet; thence North 00 degrees 19 minutes 12 seconds East 396 feet; thence South 88 degrees 56 minutes 30 seconds East 245 feet; thence South 00 degrees 19 minutes 12 seconds West 247.50 feet to point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 29, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #367381F07 77566619 (03-29)(04-19) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Gloria A. Mann, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 26, 2005, and recorded on September 12, 2005 in instrument 1152639, and assigned by said Mortgagee to The Bank of New York Mellon f/k/a The Bank of New York as successor to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as trustee for the benefit of the Certificateholders of Popular ABS, Inc. Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates Series 2005-D as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Five Thousand Eight Hundred Eighty-Nine and 59/100 Dollars ($135,889.59), including interest at 7.65% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on April 12, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the West 1/4 post of section 16, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, Hastings Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence South 89 degrees 45 minutes 46 seconds East 1321.46 feet along the East-West 1/4 line of said section 16 to the Northwest corner of the East 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4 of said section 16 and the Place of Beginning; thence South 89 degrees 45 minutes 46 seconds East along said 1/4 line, 250.40 feet; thence South 14 degrees 52 minutes 57 seconds West 327.22 feet to the centerline of Mill Road; thence North 46 degrees 53 minutes 57 seconds West 228.20 feet along said centerline; thence North 00 degrees 05 minutes 43 seconds East along the West line of said East 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4, 161.35 feet to the Place of Beginning. Subject to an easement for public Highway Purposes over the Southwesterly 33 feet thereof For Mill Road. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 15, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #289357F03 77566484 (03-15)(04-05) FORECLOSURE NOTICE RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES, P.C. MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. Mortgage Sale - Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by PATRICK W ELLIOTT AND MARY A ELLIOTT, HUSBAND AND WIFE to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. acting solely as a nominee for First Franklin Financial Corp., An Op. Sub. of MLB&T Co., FSB, Mortgagee, dated May 18, 2007, and recorded on June 25, 2007, as Document Number: 1182161, Barry County Records, said mortgage was assigned to U.S. BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE TO BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., AS SUCCESSOR TO LASALLE BANK, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR THE MERRILL LYNCH FIRST FRANKLIN MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST, MORTGAGE LOAN ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-4 by an Assignment of Mortgage dated December 01, 2007 and recorded January 14, 2008 by Document Number: 20080114-0000394, , on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Six Thousand Eight Hundred Fourteen and 02/100 ($66,814.02) including interest at the rate of 6.05000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the Circuit Court in said Barry County, where the premises to be sold or some part of them are situated, at 01:00 PM on April 19, 2012 Said premises are situated in the Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 4 and the West half of Lot 5 of BARRETT ACRES Plat, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 4 of Plats on page 30, Barry County Records. Also, beginning at the Northwest corner of said Lot 4 of the recorded Plat of BARRETT ACRES; thence South 89 degrees 18 minutes East on the North line of Lot 4, 100 feet; thence North 134 feet; thence North 89 degrees 18 minutes West 100 feet; thence South 134 feet to the place of beginning. Being part of the Northwest quarter of Section 5, Town 1 North, Range 9 West. Commonly known as: 239 ORCHARD ST If the property is eventually sold at foreclosure sale, the redemption period will be 6.00 months from the date of sale unless the property is abandoned or used for agricultural purposes. If the property is determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 and/or 600.3241a, the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of sale, or 15 days after statutory notice, whichever is later. If the property is presumed to be used for agricultural purposes prior to the date of the foreclosure sale pursuant to MCL 600.3240, the redemption period is 1 year. Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages are, if any, limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: March 22, 2012 Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for U.S. BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE TO BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., AS SUCCESSOR TO LASALLE BANK, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR THE MERRILL LYNCH FIRST FRANKLIN MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST, MORTGAGE LOAN ASSETBACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-4 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills,MI 48302,(248)335-9200 Case No. 12MI00471-1 (0377566606 22)(04-12) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Anthony J. Wolfe, a single man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Polaris Home Funding Corp. its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated October 30, 2006, and recorded on November 8, 2006 in instrument 1172545, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eight Thousand Three Hundred Nine and 45/100 Dollars ($108,309.45). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on April 26, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at a point 115 rods North of the Southwest corner of Sectioin 21; Town 3 North; Range 8 West, for a place of beginning; thence North 66 feet; thence East 250 feet; thence South 66 feet; thence West 250 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 29, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #379843F01 77566641 (03-29)(04-19) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by ELMER HAAKSMA and ALICE HAAKSMA, husband and wife (collectively, "Mortgagor"), to BYRON BANK, now known as CHEMICAL BANK, a Michigan banking corporation, having an office at 333 E. Main Street, Midland, Michigan 48640-6511 (the "Mortgagee"), dated November 29, 2005, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on December 12, 2005, as Instrument No. 1157537 (the "Mortgage"). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgagee is the owner of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage. Mortgage Electronic Registration System (MERS) is not the sole foreclosing party. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Five Hundred Thirty-Two Thousand Three Hundred Eight and 43/100 Dollars ($532,308.43). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 12th day of April, 2012, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the Township of Yankee Springs, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: Lot(s) 95, Sunrise Shores No. 2, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 98. Together with all the improvements erected on the real estate, and all easements, appurtenances, and fixtures a part of the property, and all replacements and additions. Commonly known as: 12711 Sunrise Court, Wayland, Michigan 49348 P.P. #08-16-220-095-00 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys the premises at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee for damaging the premises during the redemption period. Dated: March 15, 2012 CHEMICAL BANK Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2487 (616) 752-2000 77566442 7656530-1 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Timothy B. Priemer, an unmarried man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 31, 2006, and recorded on September 6, 2006 in instrument 1169562, and assigned by said Mortgagee to PHH Mortgage Corporation as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Four Thousand Eight Hundred Eighty-Five and 48/100 Dollars ($104,885.48), including interest at 7.833% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on April 12, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 12 of Smith's Lakeview Estates No. 1 according to the recorded plat thereof as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats on Page 2, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 15, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #393109F01 77566437 (03-15)(04-05) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Wendell Armour, Jr. and Brenda Armour, husband and wife as joint tenants, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Alternative Lending Group, its successors or assigns, Mortgagee, dated May 1, 2001 and recorded August 3, 2001 in Instrument Number 1064146, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by GMAC Mortgage, LLC successor by merger to GMAC Mortgage Corporation by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Eight Thousand Nine Hundred Seventy-Three and 85/100 Dollars ($88,973.85) including interest at 7.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on APRIL 12, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The land referred to in this Commitment, situated in the County of Barry, Township of Rutland, State of Michigan, is described as follows: Beginning at a point on the North-South 1/4 line of Section 34, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, Rutland Township, Barry County, Michigan distant South 01 degree 17 minutes 42 seconds East, 1838.59 feet from the North 1/4 corner of said Section 34; thence South 01 degree 17 minutes 42 seconds East 255.00 feet along said North-South 1/4 line; thence South 89 degrees 54 minutes 46 seconds East 740.77 feet; thence North 01 degree 17 minutes 42 seconds West, 255.00 feet; thence North 88 degrees 54 minutes 46 seconds West, 740.77 feet to the point of beginning. Subject to an easement for public highway purposes. For highway M-43 as described in Liber 142 of Deeds on Page 49. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: March 15, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 618.8146 (03-15)(04-05) 77566428 �Page 12 — Thursday, April 5, 2012 — The Hastings Banner State News Roundup Retailers leery of rising gasoline prices Michigan retailers are growing more concerned about the price of gasoline, although retail sales held up in February despite rising prices at the pump, according to the latest Michigan Retail Index, a joint project of Michigan Retailers Association and the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago. According to a March 28 press release, concern was evident when retailers’ threemonth sales projections dropped to their lowest level since October. “Gas prices” were the most frequently voiced concern. February’s retail sales, however, were stronger than a year ago and didn’t fall off LEGAL NOTICES SYNOPSIS PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP Workshop Meeting March 20, 2012 Supervisor J. Stoneburner called the meeting to order at 2:00 PM. Members present: Supervisor Stoneburner, Clerk Owens, Treasurer McGuire, and Trustee Grundy Members Absent: Trustee Goebel (arrived at 2:20 PM) Public present: none Pledge of allegiance and a moment of silence for our troops. Agenda was approved. Minutes was approved as revised. Discussion on General Budget. Discussion on Fire Department AMA. Discussion on Millage wording. Public comments: None Board comments were received. Meeting adjourned at 3:25 PM. Submitted by: Jill Owens, Clerk Attested to by: 77567009 Jim Stoneburner, Supervisor SYNOPSIS PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP Workshop Meeting March 6, 2012 Supervisor J. Stoneburner called the meeting to order at 2:00 PM. Members present: Supervisor Stoneburner, Clerk Owens, Treasurer McGuire, Trustee Grundy and Trustee Goebel Members absent:. none Public present: 5 Pledge of allegiance and a moment of silence for our troops. Agenda was approved. Minutes was a-pproved. Public Comments: None. Approved the bid by Wayne Bourdo for the Lawn Care – Township and Cemeteries using his current contract amount. Approved to reopen the bids for Sexton at the March 14th 2012 Board meeting. Approved the bid by Professional Building Services for cleaning of the Township Hall. Approved getting an alarm system for the Township Hall and Police Station from EPS. Discussed an additional recycling weekend being added to help with the overflow. Appointed a building committee to research a new firehouse with Trustees Goebel and Grundy of the board and members of the fire department on it. Approved purchase of upgrade software from BS&A. Approved purchase a shredder from Integrity not to exceed $1550.00. Rebecca Harvey has requested that no Hastings banner be sent to her. Approved the budget adjustments presented at the meeting. Reminder of the upcoming Budget Public Hearing on the 28th of March, 2012 at 7:00PM. Board comments were received. Public comments: None Meeting adjourned at 4:25 PM. Submitted by: Jill Owens, Clerk Attested to by: 77567003 Jim Stoneburner, Supervisor FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Clifford Alan Slack, a single man, and Jerry Austin and Debra Austin, husband and wife, as joint tenants with full rights of survivorship to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for Michigan Home Finance, LLC, its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated October 27, 2008 and recorded November 5, 2008 in Instrument # 200811050010776 Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage was assigned to: Flagstar Bank, FSB, by assignment dated December 27, 2011 and recorded January 10, 2012 in Instrument # 201201100000352 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Two Thousand Six Hundred EightyTwo Dollars and Thirty-One Cents ($132,682.31) including interest 6% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on April 26, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the East one-quarter post of Section 33, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, Township of Hope, County of Barry, State of Michigan, thence West 212 feet for the Place of Beginning; thence continuing West 212 feet thence North 330 feet; thence East 212 feet; thence South 330 feet to the Place of Beginning. Commonly known as 4180 Harrington Rd, Delton MI 49046 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 3/29/2012 Flagstar Bank, FSB Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 11-53966 (03-29)(04-19) STATE OF MICHIGAN JUDICIAL DISTRICT JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY PROBATE ORDER FOR SERVICE BY PUBLICATION/POSTING AND NOTICE OF ACTION CASE NO. 1245-DM Plaintiff Kayla Lambert 4440 S. M-37 Hwy., Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 948-5522 v Defendant Justin D. Lambert TO: Justin D. Lambert IT IS ORDERED: You are being sued in this court by the plaintiff in the Divorce Matter of Kayla Lambert v. Justin Lambert File #12-45-DM. You must file your answer or take other action permitted by law in this court at the court address above on or before 28 days after last posting. If you fail to do so, a default judgement may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint filed in this case. A copy of this order shall be published once each week in the Hastings Banner for three consecutive weeks, and proof of publication shall be filed in this court. A copy of this order shall be sent to Justin Lambert at the last-known address by registered mail, return receipt requested, before the date of the last publication, and the affidavit of mailing shall be filed with this court. Date: 3/7/12 77566675 Judge Amy L. McDowell SYNOPSIS PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP Workshop Meeting March 8, 2012 Supervisor J. Stoneburner called the meeting to order at 2:08 PM. Members present: Supervisor Stoneburner, Clerk Owens, Treasurer McGuire, Trustee Grundy and Trustee Goebel; also present Attorney Ken Sparks Members absent: none Public present: none Pledge of allegiance and a moment of silence for our troops. Agenda was approved. Minutes was approved. Discussed proposal section of ballot pertaining eliminating proposal 1 and 4 and adding a new proposal. This would lower millage amount for fire. Approved Ordinance 142 to amend Subsection 6 of Section 6.6.B.5.r of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to liability insurance for land gas recovery processing facilities; and to repeal all ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith. Public Comments: None. Discussed GASB Statement No. 54 Approved to waive the Planning Commission fee of $150.00 for the Hollands at the next planning commission meeting. Approved to send a letter to cancel the contract with the Hickory Fire Dept as of April 10, 2012 and request a new AMA contract. Reminder of the upcoming Budget Workshop on March 20, 2012 at 2:00PM. Board comments were received. Public comments: None Meeting adjourned at 3:30 PM. Submitted by: Jill Owens, Clerk Attested to by: 77567005 Jim Stoneburner, Supervisor SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by GLEN L. GUERNSEY AKA GLEN L. GUERNSEY JR. and LISA GUERNSEY, HUSBAND AND WIFE, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns,, Mortgagee, dated October 31, 2003, and recorded on May 13, 2004, in Document No. 1127564, and assigned by said mortgagee to GMAC MORTGAGE, LLC SBM TO GMAC MORTGAGE CORPORATION, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty Thousand Eight Hundred Thirty-One Dollars and Twenty-Five Cents ($160,831.25), including interest at 5.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on May 3, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: THE WEST 328.3 FEET OF THE WEST 1 / 2 OF THE NORTH 60 ACRES OF THE NORTHEAST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 23, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 7 WEST. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. GMAC MORTGAGE, LLC SBM TO GMAC MORTGAGE CORPORATION Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 GMAC.007473 (04-05)(04-26) 77567035 much from January’s strong performance, said MRA President and CEO James P. Hallan, “Rising gas prices are always a concern for retailers, because they take a larger share of consumers’ income,” said Hallan. “But February sales remained solid despite gas prices pushing close to $4 a gallon in some areas. It’s a situation we’re watching with great interest.” The Michigan Retail Index for February found that 48 percent of retailers increased sales over the same month last year, while 28 percent recorded declines and 24 percent saw no change. The results create a seasonally adjusted performance index of 59.3, down from 63.8 in January and up from 59.1 in December. Looking forward, 61 percent of retailers expect sales during March to May to increase over the same period last year, while 11 percent project a decrease and 28 percent no change. That puts the seasonally adjusted outlook index at 67.9, down from 78 in January. National sales rose by 1.1 percent in February, the biggest gain since September, according to the U.S. Commerce Department. Sales grew 0.8 percent excluding gas stations. LEGAL NOTICES FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Justin Lowell Morgan and Rebecca Lynn Morgan, Husband and Wife to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Homeland Mortgage Company, its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated September 9, 2005 and recorded September 28, 2005 in Instrument # 1153525 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: CitiMortgage, Inc., by assignment dated January 30, 2012 and recorded February 10, 2012 in Instrument # 201202100001458 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Five Thousand Nine Hundred Twenty Dollars and Sixty-Eight Cents ($85,920.68) including interest 6.89% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on April 12, 2012 Said premises are situated in Village of Freeport, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 4, Block 7, Samuel Roush's Addition, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 23, Barry County Records. Commonly known as 236 S East St, Freeport MI 49325 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 3/15/2012 CitiMortgage, Inc., Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-56979 (0377566472 15)(04-05) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: David A McCausey and Wendi L McCausey, husband and wife to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc as nominee for Flagstar Bank, FSB its successors and assigns , Mortgagee, dated August 4, 2006 and recorded August 11, 2006 in Instrument # 1168493 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: Flagstar Bank, FSB, by assignment dated February 28, 2012 and recorded March 7, 2012 in Instrument # 201203070002351 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ten Thousand Six Hundred Twenty-Two Dollars and Fifty-Six Cents ($110,622.56) including interest 7.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on April 19, 2012 Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The West 48 Feet of Lot 961 of the City, Formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded Plat thereof Commonly known as 126 W Walnut St, Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 3/22/2012 Flagstar Bank, FSB, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-57716 (0377566611 22)(04-12) Three companies to invest $35 million, add jobs in Michigan The Michigan Economic Development Corporation announced March 28 that three companies had been approved for incentives by the Michigan Strategic Fund through the Michigan Business Development Program to support their expansions in the state. The projects are expected to generate up to more than $35 million in investments and add up to 443 new jobs in Michigan. Lacks Enterprise, Inc. has been awarded a $350,000 business development program incentive to expand its West Michigan operations. Lacks proposes to invest up to $31.9 million to establish a new plant in Cascade Charter Township to manufacture and warehouse chrome-plated plastic parts for the automotive and appliance industries. The company expects to create up to 120 new jobs as a result of the project. Michigan was chosen over competing sites in Kentucky, South Carolina and Virginia. Computerized Facility Integration LLC, a provider of consulting and integrated workplace management systems or real estate and facility management, proposes to invest up to $908,000 to expand its Southfield operations. The company expects to create up to 79 new jobs, resulting in a state incentive of $434,500. Michigan was chosen over a competing site in Nevada. Magna Seating of America Inc., an operating unit of Magna International Inc., was awarded a $732,000 business development program incentive to expand its Highland Park operations. The manufacturer of automotive seating systems proposes to invest up to $2.2 million to allow for two new contracts to major automotive original equipment manufacturers. The company expects to create 244 new jobs as a result of the expansion. Signed into law by Snyder in December 2011, the Michigan Business Development Program provides grants, loans and other economic assistance to qualified businesses that make investments or create jobs in Michigan, with preference given to businesses that need additional assistance for deal-closing and for second-stage gap financing. For more on the MEDC and its initiatives, visit: www.MichiganAdvantage.org. MDOT 2012 statewide construction map now available The annual state highway construction map is now available from the Michigan Department of Transportation. The free map is updated each year to help motorists locate major MDOT road and bridge projects across the state. The 2012 print edition of “Paving the Way” will be available at all MDOT Transportation Service Centers and region offices, as well as at all Welcome Centers. Welcome Centers in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula will have maps available starting in early May. The map also is available for viewing at state rest areas. Information on the map is current at the time of printing. “This annual map gives Michigan motorists a big picture view of major construction projects on state routes,” said State Transportation Director Kirk T. Steudle. “It’s also a time to remind everyone to slow down and pay attention when driving through a work zone. Protect yourself and your passengers as well as construction workers.” Motorists also can get real-time information about planned and unplanned lane closures on the MDOT Mi Drive traffic data website, along with camera images of major state routes in Detroit, Grand Rapids and the U.P., rates of speed and incidents on Grand Rapids and Detroit-area freeways, and statewide weather and carpool lot information. You can access Mi Drive from your computer, smartphone or mobile device at: www.michigan.gov/drive. State funding incentives foster collaboration, also raise concerns A new policy in Michigan that encourages local governments to collaborate and combine operations appears to be working, but it also carries a risk of producing unintended consequences, a new survey by the University of Michigan reports. For years, many local governments in Michigan received state funding in the form of statutory revenue sharing. But in 2011, Gov. Rick Snyder and the state legislature made major policy changes that eliminated the revenue sharing and created the Economic Vitality Incentive Program. The new program offers incentive payments to a reduced number of local governments, and the funding is based on how well they fulfill requirements in different categories, such as consolidation of services. Even before the reforms were introduced, 72 percent of all local jurisdictions were already collaborating with other jurisdictions to jointly provide services, according to the University of Michigan survey. Among the jurisdictions that are now eligible for the incentive funds, 87 percent were already collaborating with others to provide services jointly. Despite those high levels of existing collaboration, the new incentives appear to have fostered more plans for new or expanded collaboration, according to the poll by U-M’s Ford School of Public Policy. Among the local governments that weren’t exploring increased collaboration before the incentives were announced, about 88 percent eventually changed their minds, or flipped, and did submit plans in 2011 for new or expanded cooperation, the survey says. But local officials expressed many concerns about the program. Some said the state funding wasn’t enough to cover the extra work required for expanding collaborations. Others complained it’s difficult to find nearby partners for collaborations that make sense. Some experienced logistical problems. The study cautions that state policymakers should be aware that tying revenue sharing to the expansion of collaborations may lead to unintended consequences, such as the dissolution of existing collaborations in order to launch new ones, decreasing trust between local jurisdictions, or the creation of partnerships that don’t make financial sense on their own. The report is available at http://closup.umich.edu. COURT NEWS Richard Bert Hodges, 28, was sentenced March 29 for assaulting, resisting or obstructing a police officer. Hodges, of Delton, was ordered to serve 12 months in jail, with credit for 12 days served. He must pay $698 and serve 12 months on probation. A work release was granted. A second charge of assaulting, resisting or obstructing a police officer was dropped. Felicia Lynn Ames of Hastings was sentenced March 29 for operating under the influence of liquor, third offense. Ames, 29, was ordered to serve 90 days in jail, with credit for one day served. She must pay $2,198 in costs and serve 36 months on probation. The last 60 days of jail will be suspended, pending the successful completion of probation. A work release was granted, and Ames may serve jail time on the weekends. Her vehicle was immobilized. Ames must pay $125 a month toward costs. Charges of operating while intoxicated and operating in violation of license restrictions were dropped. Tammi Lyn Hook was sentenced March 28 for home invasion, second degree. Hook, 48, of Hastings, was ordered to serve 12 months in jail, with credit for 44 days served. She must pay $1,698 in costs and serve 36 months of probation. The last three months of her jail time will be suspended upon successful completion of the Swift and Sure Sanctions Program, completion of GED in jail, and attending cognitive behavior therapy in jail. Hook must pay $50 per month toward costs once released from jail. A charge of home invasion, first degree, and two charges of breaking and entering illegal entry without owner’s permission were dropped. Gordon Charles Hess, 62, of Hastings, was sentenced for operating under the influence of liquor, third offense. Hess was ordered March 28 to serve six months in jail, with credit for two days served. Hess must pay $1,698 in costs and serve 24 months probation. His driver’s license has been revoked, and he must pay $175 per month toward costs once released. Charges of operating while intoxicated and operating with license suspended, revoked or denied were dropped. See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, April 5, 2012 — Page 13 Terpening tethered and POLICE BEAT BEA his bond is increased Barry County Deputies responded to a report of scrap metal theft in Freeport March 28. The owner of the 108th Street property reported items missing from his barn including a Torpedo heater and fiberglass ladder. The residence had also been broken in to, and five heat registers had been stolen. The owner said both buildings had been locked. The owner’s son told deputies he had stopped at the property when he noticed a red Jeep Cherokee in the driveway, and two white males loading scrap into the vehicle. The men told the son they had been given permission to remove scrap from the property. When he confronted them about taking the items, they left in a hurry, and the son was unable to get license plate numbers. When deputies checked with Freeport Police, they were told that a local scrap metal business owner drove a red Jeep. The case remains open pending contact with suspect. Forgotten purse is potted Hastings Police responded to a residence East Woodlawn Avenue March 28 after getting a report of a man pushing a woman out of a vehicle. When officers arrived, witnesses said the woman left the vehicle on her own and went into an apartment. The male subject confirmed that the woman had left on her own after having a dispute with him. When officers made contact with the woman, she said her purse had been left in the car. Officers retrieved the purse from the vehicle and could smell what they believed to be marijuana. Officers asked the woman about the odor of marijuana. She admitted she had marijuana in her purse and gave police consent to retrieve the marijuana. Officers placed the woman under arrest. Police said alcohol was a factor in the argument. Overdose converts to larceny arrest Hastings Police were dispatched to a house on East Grand Street March 31 for a possible drug overdose. When police and Lansing Mercy EMS arrived, they determined that the 36-year-old female had not overdosed, and she refused medical treatment. Upon investigation police learned the woman had an outstanding warrant out of Kalamazoo for larceny by conversion. She was taken into custody. Driver arrested after low-speed chase Hastings Police were told of a possible intoxicated driver heading through the downtown area March 31. Police observed the vehicle passing by Hastings City Hall and started to follow the vehicle. Officers then observed the vehicle fail to come to a complete stop at the intersection of East State and Hanover streets, then continued to follow the vehicle eastbound at a very slow speed, before stopping the vehicle. Officers spoke with the driver, who initially told officers he had not been drinking, then said he had two beers while working on his parachute. Officers had the driver perform standard field sobriety tests and his initial breath test registered .17 percent. He was placed under arrest, transported to the Barry County Jail and submitted to a chemical tests which showed blood alcohol contents of .18 percent and .20 percent. Woman with warrants is too far for arrest Officers put a halt to woman’s obsession A man contacted sheriff deputies March 26 to report a stalking complaint. The Delton resident said an 18-year-old Grand Rapids woman from a previous job, was making unwanted contact with him. She was contacting him by mail, on Facebook and by telephone. He said that after he had moved, he started to receive multiple phone calls from her each day and changed his number. Then he was told the woman was posting messages about him on Facebook, which he does not use. In February, he received a Valentine card from the woman through the mail at his residence in Delton. In March, his mother received a phone call from the woman who was asking about the man. The woman was contact by Grand Rapids Police and instructed to cease contact with the Delton man. She told officers she would stop and remove messages from Facebook. Gator stolen from tractor dealership Deputies were informed by Fillmore Equipment employees March 29 that one of their John Deere Gators was missing. Sometime during the previous night, a $9,300 JD 850D Gator was taken from the yard outside the dealership on M-43 north of Hastings. The keys were not in the ignition of the utility vehicle. The store’s manager had no suspects, but told deputies a trailer must have been used because of the equipment’s size. The case remains open. Caterpillar at center of dispute A man called the Barry County Sheriff’s Department March 13 to report some of his logging equipment had been stolen. The Dowling business owner told deputies a 2011 Caterpillar 287C Skid Steer with bucket and forks was missing. The equipment value was estimated at $55,000. The man said he suspected a 46-year-old Shelbyville resident who has taken things from him in the past. When the suspect’s father was contacted, he told deputies the complainant owes him money and that the court awarded him the Caterpillar as part of the judgment. He told deputies a copy of the judgment would be obtained from his attorney. The case remains open. Sports equipment, coffee grinder missing A man reported March 22 that his Mullen Road cabin had been entered and items were missing. He said someone had entered through a basement door and taken his kayak, oars, fishing equipment and a coffee grinder. Deputies noted the cabin was located beyond a closed gate, 500 feet from the road. No car had gotten through to the cabin, but a wheelbarrow was found in the driveway. Deputies found boot tracks near the entry point, and a partial fingerprint was taken. There are no suspects. present. Eldred explained to the court his theory of McCloud manipulating the victim to say anything she wants him to and that she was using his substance abuse history to accomplish her goal. He also questioned the victim about attempting to contact Terpening under an assumed name. The defense also confirmed with the witness that he had changed his story in the case and then changed it back again. The AG asked why the victim had attempted to contact the defendant. The victim told the court he had called in November 2011 in an attempt to get answers about why Terpening had allegedly committed the accused crimes. Terpening did not answer his phone. Trooper Andrew Merriwether testified he was ordered to find and arrest Terpening March 28. He said Terpening was arrested at a Battle Creek address, which the AG said was not his registered address. The defense brought in three witnesses the afternoon of March 30 in support of Terpening. Terpening’s bondsman was called to testify to his conduct, and Jerry Bell and Susan Gillihan were called to the stand. Bell testified about comments he had made to the police, and Gillihan spoke about the March 17 party at her house. After reviewing the evidence and stating all the elements she was taking into consideration in order to protect the integrity of the case, Judge McDowell said that in order to revoke the bond, the court is required to look at whether the evidence is “great.” She said it was not enough to revoke bond. She did however amend Terpening’s bond on his two criminal sexual conduct cases by increasing from $300,000 to $500,000 on one, and from $100,000 to $250,000 on the other. In addition, McDowell ordered Terpening put on a GPS tether in order to know his location at all times. Terpening was remanded into the custody of Barry County deputies until the amended conditions were satisfied. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 For Sale Card of Thanks Business Services AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 THANK YOU I wish to express my sincere gratitude to our friends, families and neighbors for the many expressions of sympathy I received during the recent loss of my husband, Wayne Schoneboom. Maybe you sent a card, flowers, gifts, donations or offered your assistance which helped me through a difficult time. Thanks to the staffs at Pennock Hospital, Dr. Brasseur and Thornapple Manor Rehab. A special thanks to the Williams Gore Funeral Home, Delton Floral, Pastor Ron Watterly and the ladies of the McCallum United Brethren Church for the great luncheon that was served. With my sincere thanks to all. Treva Schoneboom BOOKKEEPING SERVICES Personal * Self-Employed * Small Business Payroll * Billing Accounts Receivable * Accounts Payable General Ledger Weekly * Monthly * Quarterly * Annually Call today! (269)420-5714 HEAT YOUR ENTIRE HOME FOR FREE- Outdoor Wood Furnace. Instant rebates up to $1,145 for a limited time only. Central Boiler Classic. Call SOS your “Stocking Dealer”, Dutton, MI 616-554-8669 or 616-9155061. SOLID OAK ENTERTAINMENT Center and 2003 32” JVC cable ready TV. This is a great combo, $125. (616)2404740 Estate Sale ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. For Rent LARGE ROOM: Private entrance, kitchen, bathroom, bedroom 243 sq.ft. Separate bath. Scenic woods, quiet, $495. Laundry, internet negotiable. Female. 3 miles to Hastings. (269)908-6625 Automotive RICK TAYLOR’S DETAIL WORKS. Hours 8am-5pm, Monday-Saturday. Trust a professional with 44 years experience. (269)948-0958. National Ads THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is deceptive, fraudulent or might otherwise violate law or accepted standards of taste. However, this publication does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the quality of goods or services advertised. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made in any advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you ask for money in advance of delivery of goods or services advertised. RN/LPN Private Duty Immediate Openings Nashville, Marshall, Springport, Jackson Various Shifts Available Trach and Vent Experience Preferred Please email resume to: recruiter@optimalstaffing.com or fax to: 517-394-7716 77567019 A deputy was patrolling March 27 on Stevens Road near Miller Road in Hope Township when he pulled over a Honda Civic for a non-working headlight. The 21year-old female driver from Lansing told the deputy she had just hit a deer on Lacey Road and it must have damaged her headlight. She also said her license was suspended and she was aware of three warrants for her arrest. The car’s license plate was from her cousin’s car. She was taken into custody for driving with license suspended, second or subsequent offense. Her vehicle was impounded. Investigation showed two warrants from Grand Traverse County and one from Antrim County. Since the warrants were outside the pickup range of the issuing agencies, the woman was released. The case remains open. Hastings Police were dispatched March 30 to an East Green Street home for an intoxicated person standing in a front yard. Upon arrival, police saw a man who was known to them, lying in the front yard of a residence with another male subject standing over him. The man standing said he had helped the subject out of a downtown establishment, due to his level of intoxication. The man told police the subject was so intoxicated he could not stand up and refused to leave. Officers helped the intoxicated man to his feet when he started to challenge police, fight and curse at them. Officers were able to escort him to their patrol car and placed him under arrest for being a disorderly person. A blood-alcohol test registered .27 percent. The arrested man was transported to Pennock Hospital, where he was admitted overnight, after officers obtained a more detailed blood alcohol content. by David DeDecker Staff Writer After allegations of bond condition violations, Michael Terpening of Bellevue was taken into custody by Michigan State Police Wednesday, March 28. Terpening is accused of numerous acts of criminal sexual conduct with underage boys. He had been free on bond since August, pending a trial in June. The Michigan Attorney General’s office, now represented by Assistant Attorney General Angela Povilaitis, recently took over the three Terpening cases due to allegations of witness tampering. In Barry County Circuit Court March 29, Povilaitis argued that Terpening broke bond when he attended a party March 17 at which one of the victims was present, as well as some minors. Terpening is prohibited from having contact with either. In August 2011, District Court Judge Michael Schipper said Terpening was not to have any contact with any named persons in the cases; no phone calls, texts, email or Facebook contact with named persons. The state presented two witnesses March 29 testifying to Terpening’s alleged behavior at the St. Patrick’s Day party. A Michigan State trooper also testified that Terpening was difficult to locate and was not at his registered address, which also violates a condition of his bond. “We are alleging three violations on bond conditions your honor,” said Povilaitis to Judge Amy McDowell. “The first allegation is the defendant attended a party March 17 to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day ... Present at the party was not only the defendant, but also a named victim ... there are also allegations that at this party were numerous minors under the age of 18. Also at this party, it is alleged, was Jamie Bell, another person with whom Terpening is to have no contact. “The next violation is that the defendant failed to provide the court with his current address. I anticipate you will hear from the trooper who arrested the defendant that it took some effort on the part of the Michigan State Police to locate the defendant. He was subsequently, and ultimately, arrested Wednesday morning at a home which was not the home of which this court had been made aware. He was living in violation of the bond conditions that were imposed. “He is also alleged to have had contact with [a victim] through a third party, Jennifer McCloud. I anticipate she will testify to a phone call she had with the defendant, where the defendant encouraged her to encourage the witness to lie or continue to lie.” Povilaitis asked the court to revoke the defendant’s bond, forfeit the bond that was posted, put him in jail pending trial, or set a new high bond. Defense Attorney Brad Eldred asked the court to remove the defendant’s handcuffs so that he could write notes to his attorney during testimony. Eldred said it would be difficult to communicate with his client and have an effective response to the AG’s arguments. “That’s up to the deputies for purposes of security,” said Judge McDowell. Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf was present in the courtroom and nodded to his deputies. Leaf then moved to sit to the defendant’s left, along with two other deputies standing near Terpening. His handcuffs were removed. Povilaitis called McCloud to the stand. She testified one of the alleged victims in the cases was now living in her home. McCloud said the victim had been kicked out of a previous house. She told the court she had received some encouragement from Terpening to let the victim move in with her. McCloud testified she attended a St. Patrick’s Day party, along with her children and the victim. She told the court they had been at the party about an hour when the defendant arrived. McCloud also said there were more children at the party. McCloud said she contacted the Michigan State Police, describing the party and Terpening’s contact with the victim and underage children. She also testified to a telephone conversation she had with Terpening, and that she had recorded part of the conversation. She told the AG in an unrecorded conversation that Terpening told her to have the victim lie and continue to lie about the case. The defense’s line of questioning suggested the witness was unreliable and was attempting to set up Terpening to violate his bond conditions. Eldred used the term “sting operation” in his questioning of McCloud. Under cross examination, he asked McCloud about the party and if she knew the defendant was under court order not to have contact with any alleged victim in the case or anyone under 18. When she indicated she was aware of the terms, he asked her why she had brought to the party her children and the person named as a victim. McCloud answered she was not 100 percent sure the defendant would be at the party. Eldred asked McCloud if she left the party and took the named victim with her, once Terpening arrived. She said she left about 30 minutes later. One of the named victims in the cases against Terpening was then called to the stand by Povilaitis. The victim spoke about events leading to the March 17 party and testified that he and Terpening exchanged greetings at the party. He also testified to seeing a number of children at the party while Terpening was THANK YOU The family of Ron Armour would like to thank families, friends, employers, employees, co-workers, neighbors and our co-riders for all their prayers, love, food, cards and contributions to the family and St. Jude's research hospital. No words can express how much each and everyone means to us. Thank you again, you are all so thoughtful. All our love, The family of Ron Armour Help Wanted 25 DRIVER TRAINEES Needed NOW! Become a driver for Werner Enterprises! Earn $750 per week! No experience needed! Local CDL Training! Job ready in 15 days! 1-877-649-2697. DRIVERS: Need Home Time, Miles? Dedicated Home Daily! NEW Sign on Bonus-$1000! CDL-A, 1 yr. OTR. MTS: 800-748-0192 x208/214. FABRICATOR: MUST BE EXPERIENCED. Mensch Mfg., 2499 S. M-37 Hwy., Hastings. MENTAL HEALTH CLINICIAN: A full-time position exists for a LLP, LPC or LMSW with previous group therapy and crisis stabilization experience. The ability to work independently and as a member of an interdisciplinary team is necessary. The availability to work evenings and take on-call coverage is required. Send resume Business Services to Barry County Community BASEMENT WATERMental Health Authority, PROOFING: PROFESSIO915 West Green Street, MI NAL BASEMENT SERV49058. No phone calls. EOE. ICES waterproofing, crack repair, mold remediation. Recreation Local/licensed. Free estimates. (517)290-5556. FOR SALE: 2003 29’ Springdale Fifth wheel with super PROFESSIONAL BASE- slide, plus 2004 GMC Sierra MENT SERVICES: water- 2500 Crew Cab, 4x4 truck, proofing, crack repair, mold 66,000 miles with many exremediation. Local/licensed. tras. Price right at $27,000. Free estimates. (517)290- Call (269)945-4881 5556. WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are inPUBLISHER’S NOTICE: terested in leasing acreage All real estate advertising in this newsfor this years deer season. paper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act Call (269)795-3049 which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 77566758 Thieves claim Man reclining they had permission in yard gets to scrap police escort GET EASY CASH with extra household goods and tools. Advertise with classifieds in the Reminder and Hastings Banner. Phone (269)945-9554. �Page 14 — Thursday, April 5, 2012 — The Hastings Banner DK boys going for their third straight KVA title by Brett Bremer Sports Editor After a five-year gap between conference championships, the Delton Kellogg varsity boys’ track and field program is back on track. The Panthers have won Kalamazoo Valley Association championships each of the past two springs. “After finishing first in the KVA for the last two seasons, this team will have to perform extremely well to defend that position and stay atop the league this year,” said head coach Dale Grimes. “This team has every intention of remaining the dominant force in the KVA.” The Panthers return many of their top scorers from a year ago, including athletes who scored a number of points in the Panthers’ Division 3 Regional runner-up performance and their 13th-place finish at the Division 3 MITCA Team State Championship. None of the current Panthers have been to the MHSAA State Finals in an individual event, but all four members of the 1600-meter relay team which qualified for the finals is back. That group includes seniors Tyler Dempsey, Connor Wolschleger, Adam May and Phoenix Pease. Pease, May and Wolschleger are a few of the team’s top sprinters this spring, while Dempsey will be solid in the middle distance races. Also back in the distance races is senior Ryan Watson, who qualified for the state finals along with the Panthers’ 3200-meter relay team last spring. Brandon Robbins is another solid sprinter for Delton, and a very good hurdler who medaled in the 110-meter high hurdles at regionals last season. Other returning seniors include Billy Schut in the distance races and hurdles and Mike Bassett in the sprints and hurdles. About a dozen other letter-winners return as well for the Panthers. Seniors Nick Brindley and Brandon Haas are out for track for the first time, but Grimes expects Brindley to be solid in the jumps and sprints and for Haas to help the team out in the throws. Grimes said there is also a group of freshmen that has already shown to be very hard working. “Several of these kids will be contributing to the points column in different events this season, and will have a significant impact on the ultimate success of the team,” he said. The Panthers start their run at a thirdstraight KVA championship when they visit Olivet for a league dual Tuesday. Grimes said he expects Olivet, Maple Valley, Schoolcraft, Hackett Catholic Central and Constantine all to field strong teams this year, but that Parchment should prove his team’s most challenging foe in the conference. DK’s first home meet will be a league dual with Kalamazoo Christian April 17. The Panthers will also close the conference season at home, hosting the KVA Championship May 22. Adam May and Connor Wolschleger Panthers looking to improve at the plate Panthers have strong 1-2 by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Head coach Bill Humphrey likes the leaders he has to try and help him turn the Delton Kellogg varsity baseball program around this spring. The Panthers were just 3-19 overall last season, and finished tenth in the Kalamazoo Valley Association with a 1-14 league record. Seniors Ryan Hook and Nick Brindley are two of the teams senior captains. Both are back for their third varsity season. Brindley will hold down a spot in the infield when he’s not pitching. Hook will also be one of the Panthers top arms, and could also see time behind the plate and in the infield. “We have a great group of boys who really enjoy playing the game. In particular, Ryan Hook and Nick Brindley ... should provide us with great leadership throughout the year,” Humphrey said. They’ll lead a balanced group which includes six returning letter-winners in all, and seven new varsity players. The group of returnees also includes senior pitcher/outfielder Trey Taylor, and juniors Jared Buckland, Zach Young and Zach Eib. The group of newcomers includes senior Cody Sevigny, juniors Nick Aukerman, Wyatt Case, Logan Durbin, Alex Lepird, Zach Meyers and sophomore Jacob Morgan. “Our goal is to unite as a team and achieve competitive consistency in the tough KVA,” Humphrey said. “Improving every day and believing in each other will be vital as we attempt to rebound from a very tough 2011 campaign.” The Panthers will rely on their senior leadership, their enthusiasm and some solid infield defense early on in the season. The team still has a lot of work to do on its hitting and the pitching staff will benefit from varsi- WILLIAMS-GORES FUNERAL HOME punch returning at pitcher Zach Eib ty game experience. “Our pitching and defense will have to keep us in games until we can find our offensive identity,” Humphrey said. The KVA should be a solid baseball conference once again, with Kalamazoo Christian, Olivet and Schoolcraft likely bat- SCRAPALOO tling for a league crown once again. Delton will take on Comstock at home in a double header Tuesday, then starts the league season with a trip to Constantine for a doubleheader Friday (April 13). They’ll follow up those contests with two games at the Hastings Invitational Saturday (April 14). BUCKLAND AGENCY 11235 Sprague Rd, Delton “Where Scrapbooking is Fun!” 10090 S. M-43, Delton behind Delton Floral 110 W. Center, Suite B, Hastings 623-7310 948-3720 New location: 11320 S. M-43 Hwy, Delton DELTON FAMILY PHARMACY Joseph C. Roth, DO ~ John D. Kehl, PA-C 623-5521 133 Orchard, Delton 623-5115 by Brett Bremer Sports Editor There might be a few times when it’s better for Delton Kellogg pitchers Brooke Martin and Kaysie Hook to go for the strike out than just letting batters put the ball in play. They are certainly capable of doing that. Delton Kellogg varsity softball coach Kelly Yoder likes the experience of her pitchers Martin, a junior, and Hook, a sophomore, this spring. Yoder likes her outfield as well with the return of seniors Kami McCowan and Cassandra Coplin. McCowan and Martin were both The infield defense is where the Panthers have their biggest question marks coming into the year. “The infield is very inexperienced,” Yoder said. “They will get better as the season goes, but they need game time.” Martin could help out a bit, playing shortstop when she’s not pitching or catching. The infield will likely also include freshman Libby Parker and junior Shelby Woodmansee. Woodmansee will also see some time behind the plate. The Panthers were 4-11 in the Kalamazoo Valley Association a year ago, and 7-18 overall. Yoder said she thinks her team should be able to battle to get into the middle of the KVA standings this season, although there won’t be many teams in the league challenging Galesburg-Augusta for the top spot. The league season starts April 13 when the Panthers head to Constantine for a double header. Delton has one more non-conference TUJAX TAVERN 623-8310 PIZZA 623-6201 Brooke Martin tune-up before then, a double header at home against Comstock Tuesday. KATIE & CHRISTY’S MID-LAKES SCREEN PRINTING • MONOGRAMMING ACTIVE WEAR & TANNING SALON 623-8340 Specializing in Fund Raising Programs & Advertising Specialties M-43, Delton www.mid-lakes.net Wall Lake Cottage Rentals 121 E. Orchard, Delton HERB DOSTER PHOTOGRAPHER DELTON FLORAL & GIFTS DELTON POLE BUILDING 338 Grove St. (M-43)Delton 13266 Enzian Rd. Delton 101215 S. Wall Lake Rd (M-43) Delton 10036 M-43, Delton 623-5250 664-4584 623-5353 623-3300 B ORIGINAL HAIR SALON DELTON HARDWARE & RENTAL CHAPPLE REALTY INC. AUTOMOTIVE SALES & SERVICE 114 Maple St. Delton 102 N. Grove, Delton 118 E. Orchard, Delton 623-2152 623-5455 • 623-4099 WestMichiganLakes.com GROVE STREET CAFE SIMPLY SWEETS GO GO AUTO PARTS M-43 Hwy. across from Delton Schools 623-8047 623-5461 DELTON MEDICAL CENTER Accepting New Patients LYONS SEPTIC TANK SERVICE 3840 Harrington Rd. Delton 623-2089 Fast Reliable Service Since 1996 Cakes for all occasions! inside Grove Street Cafè 7709 Kingsbury Rd. Delton (269) 623-2775 623-4058 SMITH & DOSTER SALES & SERVICE 114 Grove (M-43) Delton 623-5111 DEWEY’S Since 1957 11301 S. M-43 Hwy, Delton 623-6301 THE CLOSET Family Consignment M-43 Hwy, Delton - inside DELTON SUDS LAUNDROMAT �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, April 5, 2012 — Page 15 DK girls hope to challenge for the KVA title again by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Panthers plan on keeping things rolling. The 2011 season was one of the best ever for the Delton Kellogg varsity girls’ soccer team. The Panthers won a school-record 14 games, after winning 13 the year before. They knocked off league rival Hackett Catholic Central on their way to finishing in a threeway tie with the Irish and Kalamazoo Christian for the top spot in the standings during the Kalamazoo Valley Association’s regular season. Many of the girls from that squad return this spring with another year of experience and another offseason of working on their skills. The group is led by all-conference performers Brianna Russell, Christi Boze and Jaimie Risner, as well as honorable mention all-conference athletes Samantha Zettelmaier and Rachel Parker. All five of those girls are juniors this spring. Also back is sophomore midfielder Sarah Rendon. She’ll join Parker and Risner in the midfield. Russell returns to a forward spot. Boze and Zettelmaier will lead what Delton Kellogg head coach Tracy Webster calls a “quick and strong” back line . The defense will be key for the Panthers as they break in a couple of new goaltenders, Samantha Gonzalez and Carlye Hammond. Other key newcomers to the varsity include freshman defender Kim Zettelmaier, freshman forward/midfielder Hannah Phommavongsa and junior forward Tabitha Nguyen. Phommavongsa adds speed and scoring ability up front to help out Russell on the attack. The Delton Kellogg girls are currently 1-0 on the season, having scored a lopsided win over Lakewood in the season opener. The Andrea Polley Delton girls hope to stay near the top of the KVA Brianna Russell Panthers jump right into Kalamazoo Valley Association action after spring break, heading to Kalamazoo to face Kalamazoo Christian in the league opener Wednesday. DK golf has a couple of its best back Mitchell Wandell Eastern Hills Golf Course Tuesday. They’ll Invitational at Mullenhurst Thursday afterfollow that up by hosting their own DK noon (April 12). Brindley homer is DK’s only hit in season opening loss Call anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads Allegan pitcher Julian Hornback hurdled a complete-game one-hitter as his Tigers topped the Delton Kellogg varsity baseball team 7-1 in its season opener Wednesday at Allegan High School. Hornback struck our eight, and also keyed Allegan’s offensive attack with two singles, a double and an RBI. It took a while for the Tiger bats to get going though. Delton Kellogg led 1-0 after three innings, getting the season’s first run on a lead-off home run by Nick Brindley on the second pitch of the game. That was the first and last hit for Delton though. “We did struggle offensively, but some credit has to go to Julian Hornback, who pitched a gem for Allegan,” said Delton Bourdo. “We have lots of diversity among the athletes, and a good mix of talent in lots of areas.” She said her team also has as strong freshman class, and good numbers this season. Bourdo said that one of the biggest challenges this season for the Panthers will be figuring out how to use their talents to best maximize point totals in each meet. The Delton Kellogg girls were four in the Kalamazoo Valley Association last spring, and went on to a fifth-place regional finish. The Panthers would like to remain in the top half of the KVA this season. Bourdo said she expects Schoolcraft and Olivet to be tough to beat in the league, while Pennfield returns a solid group of athletes as well. “Our goal is to build a strong team concept and improve through the season, and to stay healthy,” Bourdo said. “We should have some state qualifiers from the upperclassmen this year as well.” The Panthers will get to run for the first time when they open the KVA season at Olivet Tuesday. They’ll return to Olivet April 13 for the Olivet Relays. Delton’s first home meet will be a KVA dual with Kalamazoo Christian April 17. 07596458 by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Delton Kellogg varsity boys’ golf coach Kent Enyart thinks he has as good a one/two combo as any team around. It will be getting consistently low third and fourth scores that could make Delton Kellogg one of the better teams around. Mitchell Wandell and Zack Simon return to lead the Panthers this spring. Both were AllConference performers a year ago. Wandell earned all-state honors in Division 3 last spring. He set an school-record for the best single season average at 38.7 strokes per nine holes, set a nine-hole school record by shooting a 31, and won a regional championship to earn a spot in the State Finals. The other returnees include Adam Farrah and Conner Worm. They’ll look to provide some depth for the team as well as a host of newcomers. The group of new guys looking to earn spots in the varsity line-up include senior Dale Prater, junior Travis Boze, senior Philip Mishler, sophomore Mike Warner, senior Trent Cardoza and freshmen Keith Malachowski and Kyler Bourdo. Find solid third and fourth scorers out of that group would give the Panthers a chance to challenge with teams like Hackett Catholic Central and Kalamazoo Christian at the top of the Kalamazoo Valley Association standings this spring. Enyart said he also expects Pennfield and Schoolcraft to field strong teams. The Panthers open their season with a KVA Tri against Parchment and Schoolcraft at by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Jolene Drum is the lone returning state qualifier for the Delton Kellogg varsity girls’ track and field team this spring. She returns for her senior season after qualifying for the Division 3 State Finals last year, where she placed 21st in that event. The Panthers should be solid in the middle distance races, with seniors Andrea Polley, Adrianna Culbert and Kelsey Sofia also returning in those events. They all do more than one thing well though, and the Panthers will spread their talents throughout the events under new head coach Karmin Bourdo. Polley is also one of the team’s top sprinters and hurdlers. Drum is the only returning state qualifier from last spring, but Polley went to the finals in Division 3 as a sophomore in the 300-meter low hurdles. Culbert is one of the team’s top throwers, and will be joined in the throws by fellow senior Courtenay Dirks and junior Mallory Sewell. Sofia should add points for the Panthers in the high jump. Delton will also look for points from returnees like Katie Hawyard and Nicole Thompson in the sprints. “Our team is very dynamic this year,” said Kellogg head coach Bill Humphrey. Zach Meyers started on the mound for DK and pitched three shut-out innings while giving up only two hits. Trey Taylor (0-1), the second of four DK pitchers, took the loss. Allegan tied the game with a run in the bottom of the fourth then exploded for four runs in the bottom of the fifth. Allegan had four hits in the inning and got the help of two Delton errors. Andrew Kelley had a single and two RBI for Allegan in the contest. Damien Arthur had a pair of singles and two RBI. Tre McLaughin and Taylor Simez also drove in runs for the Tigers. 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 �Page 16 — Thursday, April 5, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LHS girls defeat Ionia and Belding Lakewood’s Kelsey Brown (right) battles for possession of the ball with Olivet’s Kylie Evert during Thursday evening’s non-conference contest at Olivet High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Penalty kick turns out to be the game-winner for Vikings Senior Chelsie Doran converted on a penalty kick to break a 1-1 tie and then Lakewood’s varsity girls’ soccer team was able to hold off Olivet for its first victory of the season Thursday. Lakewood topped the host Eagles 2-1 in non-conference action. Roxanne Powelson scored the Vikings’ other goal, off an assist from Shannon Morse. “We have a very, very young team this year starting three freshmen and two sophomores,” said Lakewood head coach Paul Gonzales. “We’re in kind of a rebuilding mood at this point, trying to get the right mix of players and positions to win some games.” The Vikings were a little extra young Thursday, with five varsity girls’ being replaced by junior varsity players in the final contest before spring break. The Vikings are now 1-1 overall this season. They return to action Tuesday with a nonconference contest at Ionia. BOWLING SCORES Tuesday Night Mixed Boyce Milk Haulers 85-39; Hurless Machine Shop 75.5-48.5; Hometown Lumber 73.5-50.5; Barry County Red Cross 68.555.5; J-Bar Antique Tractors 47-79; Dirt Broke 24.5-99.5. Men’s Good Games and Series - D. Blakely 266-683; K. Beebe 211; D. Benner 201; G. Hause 200; M. Yost 192-534; A. Dundas 183; C. Featherly 177. Women’s Good Games and Series - B. Wilkins 185; B. Smith 168; R. Gross 167-404; M. Wilcox 139. Hart 176. Monday Mixerettes Kent Oil 69.5-50.5; Nashville Chiropractic 65.5-54.5; Dean’s Dolls 63.5-56.5; NBT 63.556.5; Dewey’s Auto Body 53-67; James Process Service 44-72. Good games and series - D. James 190558; J. Alflen 181; J. Rice 219; L. Elliston 201; D. Snyder 202-576; T. Christopher 181503; B. Hathaway 176; T. Redman 147; V. Carr 187-507; B. Anders 152-435; D. Anders 157-432. Tuesday Trios Rollarama 85-39; CB’s 74-50; Look Insurance 72-52; Lu’s Team 71-53; Shirlee’s Team 70.5-53.5; Team Turkey 68-56; Blair Landscaping 65-59; Twisted Sisters 63.560.5; Trouble 54-70; Coleman Agency 52-72; Classic 3 47-77; Ghost Team 18-106. High Games and Series - S. Smith 191; D. James 183-517; N. Shaw 172; B. Stacy 155429; D. Hunt 178; D. Clark 142; L. Potter 177; H. Rescher 166; P. Ramey 177-490; T. Daniels 187-503; S. Madry 145; A. Trumble 130; S. Vandenburg 203-576; D. Mickey 176; S. McKey 211, 247, 218-686; S. Burd 165. Senior Citizens ~Final Standings~ Just Having Fun 70.5-49.5; Butterfingers 70-50; Kuempel 64-56; Three Gals & A Guy 62-58; Early Risers 58-62; Usedtobe #1 5763; King Pins 56-64; M&M’s 55-65; Sun Risers 54.5-65.5; Ward’s Friends 53-67. Good games and series women - N. Boniface 164; A. Tasker 136; B. Maker 178; B. Benedict 194-461; D. Larsen 163; M. Kingsley 104-270; R. Murphy 171-449; Y. Cheeseman 168; G. Scobey 169-453; J. Gasper 195-541. Good games and series men - G. Forbey 162; C. Atkinson 192; R. Boniface 198; B. Terry 222-624; W. Mallekoote 176; R. Walker 208-506; D. Kiersey 176; M. Saldivar 181; R. Wednesday P.M. Delton Suds 80-40; The River 7y0-50; Four Pals 69.5-50.5; Eye & ENT 63-57; Hair Care 60.5-55.5*. * Games to be made up. Good games and series - J. Pettengill 125; G. Meaney 168-471; K. Moore 136; J. Shurlow 158; R. Pitts 148; N. Boniface 183481; L. Elliston 180-530; T. Christopher 180; B. Norris 157-412; B. Smith 163; S. Beebe 183. Sunday Night Mixed You’re Up N Shit 71; Eastsiders 71; Street Bowlers 62; Straightliners 61; Sunday Snoozers 59; Sandbaggers 57 1/2; Rollin Olins 56 1/2. Women’s Good Games and Series - K. Becker 253-579; J. Rice 172-490; M. Olin 176-438; M. Simpson 181; A. Hubbell 170; J. Healy 145. Men’s Good Games and Series - S. Olin 224-633; B. Hubbell 215-562; C. Posner 198516; M. Bassett 158-416; D. McKee 388; E. Rice 95-320; M. Bassett 169; T. Demott 164. Complete online schedule at: www.hassk12.org Golf THURSDAY, APRIL 12 Forest Hills Eastern HS A TUESDAY, APRIL 10 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM Boys Boys Girls Girls Varsity JV Varsity JV Baseball Baseball Softball Softball Caledonia HS DH Caledonia HS DH Caledonia HS DH Caledonia HS DH A H A H WEDNESDAY, APRIL 11 3:45 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 5:30 PM 5:45 PM Boys Boys Girls Girls Girls Girls Girls JV Fresh. Varsity JV Fresh. Varsity JV Golf Baseball Softball Softball Softball Soccer Soccer Wayland Union HS H Caledonia HS DH H Kelloggsville HS DH H Kelloggsville HS DH A Grand Ledge HS DH H Wyoming Rogers Var. Only A Allendale HS JV Only A HASTINGS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS Contact Nancy 945-2742 or hastingsathleticboosters@gmail.com to sponsor the schedule 12:00 PM 4:00 PM 4:00 PM 4:15 PM 4:30 PM 4:30 PM Boys Girls Girls Boys Boys Girls Varsity Varsity JV Varsity Varsity Varsity Golf Tennis Tennis Baseball Track Track DKHS-Delton Inv. Lakewood HS Lakewood HS Caledonia HS Caledonia HS Caledonia HS A H H H A A Times and dates subject to change Thanks to This Week’s Sponsor: Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, P.C. “Quality Care with Compassion” 840 Cook Rd. Hastings, MI 49058 Phone: 269-945-9520 Toll Free: 800-596-1005 Contact us on the web @ www.hoc-mi.com 77566809 3:45 PM Boys JV Lakewood’s Cassidy Curtis leaps along during the 100-meter hurdles Wednesday at the Belding Tri. pion on the day, Joey Endres. He won the 200-meter dash in 24.5 seconds, with teammate Micah Weatherwax in second in 24.6. Lakewood’s boys also had a good showing in the 100, with Erik Musbach first in 11.9, Weatherwax third in 12.1 and Endres fourth in 12.1. Lakewood got two runner-up performances in the field, with Cody Collins second in the pole vault at 10-0 and Mike Carr second in the high jump by clearing 5-8. Collins also had a third-place finish in the 400-meter run with a time of 56.7. Ionia won the dual between the Bulldog and Redskin boys’ teams, 98-39. The Belding girls did top Ionia’s girls in their competition, 76-61. Saxons have two rough innings at Ionia Two rough innings cost the Saxons at Ionia Wednesday. The host Bulldogs scored a pair of non-conference wins in their double header with Hastings’ varsity baseball team, winning the opener 8-4 then taking the night cap 3-2. Ionia had a five-run first inning in the opener to take control of the game, and scored all three of its runs in the bottom of the second in the second game. The Saxon defense, which was very good in its season opener, proved to be the team’s undoing in the opener as three of the five Bulldog runs in the first inning were unearned. The Bulldogs later added single runs in the fourth, fifth and sixth to hold off the Saxons. Mitch Kolanowski led the Saxon offense with three hits. Keith Garber added a double and two RBI, while Tyler Stolicker had a single and one RBI. Hastings led the opener 1-0, scoring in the top of the first on doubles by Kolanowski and Garber, but Hastings left runners on second and third in the inning. Kolanowski also was the catalyst for the Saxons second run. He singled to lead off the top of the fifth, stole second and scored on a wild pitch. Hastings got its last two runs in the top of the seventh, getting back-to-back walks from Alex Nichols and Kolanowski to start the inning. Tyler Stolicker eventually drew a bases-loaded walk, then Garber drove in the second run with a fly-out. Jake Swartz (0-1) started on the mound and took the loss for Hastings. He was relieved by Jon French who went four innings before giving way to David Pierce. In game two the Saxons struck first again. Alex Pohl singled, took second on a wild pitch and scored on an Ionia error. Ionia scored its three runs in the bottom of the second after two were out. The score stayed 3-1 until the top of the fifth when Kolanowski was hit by a pitch, stole second, moved to third on a wild pitch and came home on an Ionia error. Travis Sixberry was hit by a pitch later in the inning and Pierce singled, and they both moved up a base on a wild pitch, but they were stranded at second and third as the Bulldog third baseman grabbed a pop-up for the third out of the inning. Pohl had two singles for the Saxons in that contest. Sixberry (0-1) started and took the loss. He was relieved by Brandon Redman. The Saxons fall to 1-2 with the double-header setback and will be off until after spring break when they open conference play with a doubleheader against Caledonia on Tuesday. Sheldon dives for Hope at DIII National Championship TK finally runs out of rallies in the 13th against Hamilton by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Thornapple Kellogg varsity baseball coach Jack Hobert won’t soon forget his first contest leading the Trojan program. The Trojans battled through 13 innings with Hamilton in Middleville Wednesday before finally falling 13-12 to the Hawkeyes. Twice the Trojans had to rally with two outs in the bottom half of an inning just to extend the game. TK trailed 9-5 heading into the bottom of the seventh, and rallied for four runs to tie things up and send the game to extra innings. Hamilton struck first in extra innings, scoring three times in the top of the 11th. Again with two out, the Trojans scored three ties to tie the ballgame. Hamilton eventually tacked on a single run in the 13th that the Trojans couldn’t match. Garrett Harris had the two-run double with two out in the seventh inning that tied things up. In the 11th, it was freshman Dalton Phillips who drilled the two-run single that tied the game again. Harris finished the day 2-for-5 with two walks and two runs scored as well as the two RBI. TK’s offense also got a 3-for-4 performance from Dylan VanPutten, who also had two RBI and two walks as well as a sacrifice fly. TK had a chance to score the winning run a couple of times in extra innings. The Trojans put a runner on second with one out in the eighth and again in the tenth, but failed to drive him home. “This team has got a ton of fight, we’ve just got to start a little quicker,” said Hobert. TK gave up three unearned runs in the first inning, then battled back to take a 5-3 lead after four innings. Hamilton then fought back to take a 9-5 lead with four runs in the sixth inning and single runs in the fifth and seventh. VanPutten stared on the mound for TK, and didn’t give up an earned run in his four innings of work. Harris threw well for the Trojans, allowing just two earned runs in sixth and a third. It was Phillips who took the loss in the 13th. TK softball split two games with Hawkeyes in Middleville SAXON WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE MONDAY, APRIL 9 The Vikings showed off some solid sprinting in their season opener at the Belding Tri Wednesday afternoon. The Lakewood varsity girls’ track and field team put together enough other points to score wins over host Belding and Ionia at the meet, topping the Redskins 70-67 and the Bulldogs 98-47. The Lakewood boys were 02 on the day though, falling 97-40 to Ionia and 105.33-30.66 to Belding. Mycah Ridder led the Lakewood girls in the sprints, winning the 100-meter dash in 12.8 seconds and placing second in the 200 in 27.2. Madison McLean was third in the 100 with a time of 13.5. The Vikings had the second through sixth place finishers in the 200, with Tessa Hergenrader just behind Ridder in third place with a time of 29.4. The Viking sprinters teamed up to win the 400-meter relay in 53.6, and finished half a second behind Belding in second place in the 800-meter relay. Lakewood girls won three of the day’s four relays, also winning the 3200-meter relay in 11:15.4 and the 1600-meter relay in 4:27.5. The Viking girls had five other individual victories on the day. Ellie Reynolds earned two of those, taking the two hurdle races. She won the 100-meter hurdles in 17.5 and the 300-meter low hurdles in 54.3. In the field, Ashley Jemison won two events. She took the shot put with a mark of 32 feet 2 inches and the discus with a throw of 101-10. Hergenrader had the Vikings’ other win, flying 14-2.5 in the long jump. Other top finishes for Lakewood included Hannah DeJong’s second-place jump of 4-6 in the high jump, Corazon Curtis’ secondplace time of 1:08.5 in the 400-meter run. Lakewood’s Betsy Reynolds was second in the 800 in 2:48.3 and third in the 1600 in 6:17.5. Lakewood’s boys’ team had just one cham- Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity softball team opened the season by splitting its non-conference doubleheader with Hamilton in Middleville Wednesday. Lauren Bailey pitched the Trojans to the win in game two, as they topped the Hawkeyes 9-3. She also had a double on offense. The Trojans also got great hitting in the win from Liz Polmanteer, Sandra Gerou and Kelly Mousseau who had two hits each. Paige Lajack had three hits and two RBI. Polmanteer also drove in two runs. Hamilton won game one 7-5. Polmanteer was 2-for-3 with a double and two RBI in the game one loss. Gerou and Lajack also had doubles. Morgan VanPutten hit well, and threw out a Hamilton base-stealer too. Alexis Aspinall took the loss, striking out two in seven innings. Erin DeVries had five stolen bases in the two games, and Ashley Roy and Taylor McLeod also added RBI for the Trojans. TK head coach Andy Saldivar added that second baseman Chloe Graham had two great defensive games as well. The Trojans are off now until after spring break. TK takes on Wyoming Park April 9, then heads to Grand Rapids Catholic Central for a conference double header April 10. That’s just the start of a busy week for the TK ladies. They’ll also host Byron Center for a double header April 12 and head to the Barry County Invitational in Hastings April 14. Kyleigh Sheldon Kyleigh Sheldon, a 2009 Hastings High School graduate, just completed an outstanding junior diving season for the Hope College Women’s Swimming and Diving Team. Sheldon was the first Hope diver since 2001 to win an MIAA Championship on the three-meter board when she took the title in Holland in February with a total score of 433 points on 11 dives. She also finished second in the conference in the one-meter diving competition. The performances earned her All-MIAA honors. Her achievements did not end there. Sheldon became the first Flying Dutch diver in more than a decade to qualify for the NCAA Division III Championships. She was seeded 20th in both events heading into the championships, which were held in Indianapolis March 22-24. She finished 19th in the one-meter event and 21st in the three-meter competition there. Sheldon was honored earlier in the season by the MIAA as the Swimmer/Diver of the Week after taking first on both the one-meter and three-meter boards at the dual meet against Alma, and achieving personal bests on both boards. Sheldon still holds the diving record for the Thornapple Kellogg/Hastings varsity girls’ swimming and diving team. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-04-12.pdf 7450a2f8befc2e42c1dbef77e2c35f94 PDF Text Text Bond sale pays big dividends for county Student loan debt cause for concern TK Special Olympics team wins Gold at State Finals See Story on Page 5 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 14 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 15 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, April 12, 2012 City council mulls wheelchair ramp permits, fees NEWS BRIEFS Prom dress sale will benefit local animal shelters A prom dress swap is planned from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, April, 14, at the Hastings Community Center, 530 W. South St., where a variety of gently used styles and sizes will be available for purchase for $20 each. All proceeds from the event will go to Save Our Shelter, a nonprofit organization founded by 2003 Hastings High School graduate Nicole (Schwartz) Taylor. She said all funds from the local sale will benefit either the Barry County Animal Shelter or McKenzie’s Animal Shelter in Lake Odessa. Anyone who donates or buys a dress will be entered to win prizes. Anyone who wishes to donate gently used dresses may drop them off at office of Hastings High School or Delton Kellogg High School by Friday, April 13. For more information, call Taylor, 269-832-2437, or email info@saveourshelter.org. Genealogy topic of ILR class For anyone interested in furthering research on family, but who needs new ideas on where to look for information, Gordon Mitchell will be conducting an advanced genealogy class on Mondays, April 23 to May 21, from 10 a.m. to noon. The class will meet at the Kellogg Community College Fehsenfeld Center on West Gun Lake Road. Emphasis will be placed on Internet searches, and participants are invited to bring questions and issues regarding their own searches. Fee information may be obtained or registration made by calling the KCC Fehsenfeld Center at 269-948-9500, ext. 2803. Blood drives set in Delton, Lake Odessa, Hastings The American Red Cross reminds everyone that the need for blood doesn’t take a break, and all eligible donors are encouraged to make blood donation a part of their plans. Upcoming blood drives in this area include: Delton — Monday, April 16, St. Ambrose Church, 11149 Floria Road, 1 to 6:45 p.m. Delton — Thursday, April 19, Delton Kellogg High School, 327 N. Grove St., 8:15 a.m. to 2 p.m. Lake Odessa — Monday, April 23, Central United Methodist Church, 912 Fourth Ave., noon to 5:45 p.m. Hastings — Thursday, April 26, Hastings Moose Lodge, 128 N. Michigan, 1 to 6:45 p.m. Anyone who is at least 17 years old, weighs a minimum of 110 pounds, is in reasonably good health and has not donated blood for 56 days is eligible. For more information, visit the website www.redcross.org. Call 945-9554 to subscribe to the Hastings Banner by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer For a second month, the Hastings City Council delayed making a decision regarding a proposed fee and inspection schedule for new and existing wheelchair ramps. After a discussion about whether annual inspections and fees are necessary and fair, Hastings City Manager Jeff Mansfield said during Monday’s council meeting he would conduct further research into the matter and report back to the council. Council member Dave Jasperse questioned why such access ramps need to be inspected annually, when apartments and other rental units are required to be inspected once every two years. Mansfield said the inspection and permit renewal process was meant to be a way to eliminate ramps that may be deteriorating or are no longer needed. “Some of these people out there went through the expense of building the ramp to begin with, and now it’s kind of after the fact, and we’re going to hit them with some kind of fee to have it there. Plus, we’re going to nail them every year, or two years, for annual inspection fee.” Council member Dave Tossava Mansfield opened the discussion Monday by saying that, as requested by the council last month, he had talked to staff at Professional Code Inspectors regarding the issuance of handicap ramp permits based on the ordinance recently adopted by the council. He said PCI agreed to issue permits, at no cost to the city, for ramps for which they have already issued a building permit. PCI also agreed to issue the first annual permit at no additional cost; however, for subsequent permits and those for existing ramps, PCI would charge the city a fee equivalent to the $50 initial fee and $30 annual renewal fee it is proposing to charge property owners. There are currently 66 wheelchair ramps in Hastings, none of which would be grandfa- thered, if the council approves a motion that would require homeowners who have new or existing wheelchair ramps to pay a fee and have them inspected on annual or bi-annual basis. Council member Dave Tossava said it doesn’t seem fair to charge an annual renewal fee for ramps when there are no similar fees for fences and other constructions. “Some of these people out there went through the expense of building the ramp to begin with, and now it’s kind of after the fact, and we’re going to hit them with some kind of fee to have it there,” he said. “Plus, we’re going to nail them every year, or two years, for annual inspection fee.” Mayor Pro-tem Brenda McNabb-Stange, who was filling in for absent mayor Bob May, said the city should be able to recoup the cost of inspections performed by PCI. “I got a problem with charging people who already have [a ramp] there for a permit,” said Tossava. “Some of these people are not going to be able to pay for it.” Council member Jeri DePue said she would prefer the permits be renewed every other year and she would feel more comfortable charging permit fees for ramps if property owners were allowed to pay over 60 to 90 days, rather than 30. “Fifty dollars may not sound like a lot of money to a lot of people; but to my family it is a lot of money,” she said. “And, I am willing to bet, for the people who have these handicap ramps, it’s a lot of money, too.” Regarding the annual inspections, Mansfield said the city could require property owners to repair deteriorating ramps under existing property maintenance guidelines. “So, why do we need annual inspections?” asked DePue. Mansfield said the proposed resolution was based on suggestions made by an individual from the community with the idea that an annual inspection and fee would motivate those who no longer need ramps to remove them. “The worst ramps are the ones that already exist,” said Hastings Community Development Director John Hart. Mansfield said he and city staff would put together a brief presentation about existing ramps in the city limits and would revise the resolution reflecting comments and suggestions from the council and bring it to the next See RAMPS, page 2 Hastings school board considering six-year terms by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer In an attempt to reduce election costs, the state has mandated that all regular school elections be held during regular even-year fall elections. During its regular April meeting slated for 7:30 p.m. Monday, April 16, the Hastings Board of Education is expected to entertain a recommendation from its policy committee for either six- or four-year terms for school board trustees, starting with the coming November election. Regardless of which option the board chooses, terms for trustees will be extended a minimum of six months up to a maximum of 18 months to ensure that a majority of the seats do not end up on the ballot at the same time. The terms of trustees Gene Haas and Patricia Endsley which are set to expire June 30, would be extended to Dec. 31. The term of trustee John Hart, who was appointed to fill the seat vacated by Scott Hodges in November, was to be up for election in May. Hart would be up for election in November. The terms of treasurer Rob Longstreet and secretary Donna Garrison are currently scheduled to expire June 30, 2014, but would be extended to Dec. 31, 2014. The terms of president Kevin Beck and trustee Dan Patton, which are slated to expire June 30, 2015, would be extended until Dec. 31, 2016. During the board’s monthly work session Tuesday evening, Interim Superintendent Michelle Falcon said most neighboring school districts are opting for six-year terms. “I haven’t seen a four-year; I’ve only seen six-year terms from neighboring districts in Calhoun County,” she said. Resident Dave Seidl said board members would have more accountability to the voters and community with the shorter, fouryear terms. “I think six years is a long time,” he said. Patton said the biggest challenge has been trying to create a rotation where no more than three of the board’s seven seats are up for election at one time. During the work session the board: • Heard report from Falcon that she anticipates the board will be able to conduct of first reading of proposed bullying policy during its regular meeting Monday evening. • Received information that Bob Goldsworthy has worked with district representative Carl Schoessel on a plan for the septic system at the former Pleasantview Elementary School, and the bid has been submitted to the Barry-Eaton District Health Department for approval. Once the plan is approved, the district will be able to schedule a closing on the property. • Heard that two teachers are working on a Facebook proposal which they hope to present to the board before the end of the school year. • Received an update in the progress of the district’s new budgeting process which is being implemented with help of financial consultant Don Sovey. • Was informed that profile information about Todd Geerlings, who will assume the superintendent’s post July 1, will be posted on the district website along with a schedule of his planned visits to each of the district’s schools. Citizens and community members are encouraged to schedule appointments to meet Geerlings, or walk in if he does not have appointments during the posted times. Jazz festival begins tonight in Hastings by David DeDecker Staff Writer The Thornapple Arts Council kicks off its ninth annual jazz festival Thursday, April 12, through Saturday, April 14. A performance by the Thornapple Jazz Orchestra with guest jazz vocalist Edye Evans-Hyde, will start festivities at the new Presbyterian church on M-37 northwest of Hastings. Friday night, following three choir performances, Evans-Hyde and her band will headline at the Hastings First United Methodist Church. Leason Sharpe Hall will feature Jim Coviak and Friends Caribbean Jazz Friday night, as well. Saturday evening, the main event will feature middle and high school all-star jazz bands, followed by headliner the Golden Jazz Orchestra. “The jazz festival is hands down the largest event of its kind in the state,” said Thornapple Arts Council Executive Director Megan Lavell. “This is the ninth year for the jazz festival. We are very appreciative of all the businesses and organizations in Barry County which help make jazz festival a big success. Although the Thornapple Arts Council runs jazz festival, we certainly could not do it without the support of all our community partners and sponsors. Hastings City Bank has been, for years, our headlining sponsor.” The Thornapple Arts Council puts a major emphasis on education and arts education. The focus of the Thornapple Arts Council Jazz Festival is to bring together student and professional musicians, serving as an educational opportunity for the student participants. The Western Michigan University Jazz Orchestra has the Hastings First United Methodist Church packed during last year’s event. Each student band that participates receives a clinic from a professional musician after their performance. This year’s event will host five clinicians, including a steel drum band clinician. Student groups also go home with a recording of their jazz festival performance. “The Thornapple Arts Council Jazz Festival keeps growing, and it’s really exciting,” said Joe LaJoye, jazz festival chairman. “We have more schools than ever, and we’re going to have a great event.” Last year, the festival attracted 43 schools. This year, 54 schools will be participating, from as far away as St. Ignace in the Upper Peninsula. According to Lavell, the jazz festival brought over 4,000 people to downtown Hastings. With the addition of 11 schools this year, attendance promises to be much larger. Southern jazz, or Dixieland, will be new this year. Six steel drum groups will be participating, and 10 community groups. “Visitors to the festival are constantly commenting on the great experience they have visiting Hastings,” said LaJoye. Area restaurants such as the County Seat, Fall Creek, Seasonal Grille and the Walldorff Brewpub and Bistro, have all agreed to hire musicians for lunch and dinner hours. Students are being encouraged to go listen to the professional musicians. State Grounds Coffee House and Jefferson Street Gallery will host jazz combos Friday and Saturday. “We bring in thousands of students, as well as professional musicians to clinic the students, which makes this such a unique event,” said Lavell. “Most festivals have a competitive nature to them. The jazz festival does not. The students play for the clinicians. The clinicians then give the students feedback on how to improve their performances. They have a critique to take back to their school and become better performers.” Headline performances will be at Hastings First United Methodist Church, on Green Street again this year. Other main venues include Hastings City Bank and the Hastings Public Library. The Leason Sharpe Hall and the old sanctuary in the Barry Community Enrichment Center (former Presbyterian church) will be new venues. The Jefferson Street Gallery will also be host to the jazz and art afterglow party for arts council members and potential members to enjoy refreshments, local music and art. Tickets are $10. One jazz festival ticket is included in a $25 annual membership, and two tickets are included in a $50 level membership. The entire schedule of performances and venues will be printed in next week’s Reminder and is available at www.thornapplearts.org. For more information, call 269945-2002. �Page 2 — Thursday, April 12, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Barry County students explore health care careers while earning credit by David DeDecker Staff Writer The latest in collaborative programs to provide hands-on experience to students in Barry County is in the health care field. “21st Century Health is a hybrid of a program which many tech centers in the state already have,” said Jeff Jennette, superintendent of Barry Intermediate School District. “Those are geared toward five days a week of classroom time where anatomy, physiology and health career exploration take place. Due to the lack of a tech center, we were very fortunate that Kellogg Community College , Pennock Hospital and Thornapple Manor wanted to explore opportunities like this for Barry County students. Next year, the goal is to expand this to other students who may be interested in becoming a certified nurse assistant through KCC and Thornapple Manor.” The 21st Century Health program currently has 20 students from Barry County high schools who study biology and related topics in the health care field in classrooms, then job shadow health care professionals outside of the classroom. To qualify for the program, students must maintain a 2.5 grade point average or higher, have a minimum ACT score of 22, have a high school biology grade of “B” or better, and provide a school recommendation form. Classroom time is spent at the KCC Fehsenfeld Center in Hastings. Students then job shadow at Pennock Hospital, Thornapple Manor, Green Street Veterinary Clinic and the office Daniel Gole, DDS. Each participant wears a program uniform to indicate their sta- Physical therapist Julie Richardson (left) works with Hastings student Lauren Kirwin as she job shadows at Pennock Hospital. tus as a student. “It was nice to see everything fall in place,” said KCC Fehsenfeld Center Director Tim Sleevi. “Many of the students did well in their anatomy class at KCC and seemed to learn a lot during their visits to health care programs.” Classroom work is four hours one day per Carol VanEck (left) helps Thornapple Kellogg student Marina Quick (right) learn about the Pennock laboratory. week at KCC. Coursework includes an overview of program, regulations, health care finance, bedside manner, vital signs, medical terminology, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation instruction. Students learn about nursing at Pennock and Thornapple Manor and gain experience in the areas of radiology; cardiopulmonary; physical, speech and occupational therapy; laboratory; and pharmacy with the professionals at Pennock Health Services. Home care and hospice care is job shadowed at Thornapple Manor. During the second semester of the school year, students continue their studies one day a week at KCC. The student then has an internship placement in the area of health care which interests them the most, pending interview with proposed supervisor. “We are very lucky to have the collaboration that we do in Barry County,” said Jennette. “Everyone I called to see if the students could visit their sites said ‘Yes’ and I have had others volunteer for next year. The students truly benefit from these visits and hopefully, it helps them decide what they want to study when they go to college. KCC, Pennock Hospital, and Thornapple Manor have been active participants from day one and we are grateful for that, but there are many others who have been helpful to make this a success.” Similar collaborative programs that have been developed in the past few years are the Gilmore Garage Works program at Gilmore Car Museum and a welding program through KCC at Hastings High School. Katy Kesler, who is interning at Green Street Veterinary Clinic, reviews the X-ray of a dog with a broken pelvis. Hastings student Sarah Sleevi (right) job shadows a nurse every Thursday. Bobbie Jo Aiston, RN, (left) works with Sleevi at Pennock Hospital. “We have been discussing a program like this for several years,” said Fred Jacobs, one of several people working on the education collaborations. “It is nice to see it started and we hope to expand it in the future.” For more information on next year’s program, call the Barry Intermediate School District office, 269-945-9545. Oil and gas leases causing concern ahead of May 8 auction J-Ad Graphics News Service In 2010, Michigan appeared to become the focal point of oil and gas companies hoping to expand their territory for resource exploration. In the past few months, those oil and gas companies have apparently been honing in on Barry County as part of an effort to secure rights to local land and the resources within that land — including water. Several weeks ago, the number of oil and gas leases in the Barry County stood at 134, and “independent landmen” are still in the area arranging such leases. When asked for an updated number and what percentage of Barry County acreage is now under oil and gas lease, Barry County Register of Deeds Darla Burghdoff was not able to provide a number due to the office undergoing a software conversion. However, a Michigan government website does lend credence to an enhanced interest in Barry County by oil and gas lease seekers. According to a database compiled at www.Michigan.gov/deq under the gas minerals heading, an auction of both private and state-owned land has been scheduled for May 8. Over 40 pages of the 412-page document is Barry County land, or nearly 10 percent for the entire state. As of March 27, 20,858 acres of land in Barry County — some in every township — will be on the auction block for oil exploration, nearly an entire township. Though the “independent landmen” who have signed private landowners to lease agreements that they, in turn, will receive the auction proceeds from, the State of Michigan will also be a big player in the May auction. The state has recently been auctioning off state-owned land for extraction rights at high rates, more than in the past 80 years, according to the Petoskey Watershed Council. In the May 8 auction, the state will be offering leases to more state land, including property in or near the Barry State Game Area. Some citizens have begun expressing their concern over what the oil and gas companies will do with the land. Across the nation, the similarly leased land is being used to extract fossil fuel resources by putting other vitally important resources at risk. Cynthia Dill, a Barry County resident, approached county commissioners at their meeting on Tuesday to request that they take preemptive action to protect Barry County water resources by restricting the use of hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, in the coun- ty. The potential for environmental impact and the safety records of many companies requesting to operate in Barry County would justify a restriction, maintained Dill, who also provided commissioners with a news release account of a North Carolina county who had done just that. Commissioners did not respond to Dill’s remarks. Banner staff had requested of each Barry County Commissioner on April 9 what the county board is doing or going to do to protect the interests of Barry County. As of press time Wednesday, no response had been received from any county commissioner, although the topic has recently been added to the commissioner’s strategic planning meeting on April 12. In addition to the county cited by Dill, many local governments are taking action, or moving forward with caution to protect their local environments from the possible ill effects of the fracking process including contamination of drinking and recreational water, agricultural concerns, the release of methane gas, and, in the extreme and nationally-reported case of one community in northern Ohio, even earthquakes. Some believe that it’s not just the potential pollution of surface water, but also the extraction of millions of gallons of water from aquifers, unintentional underground explosions, and “slick water” or fracking waste water left stored in the earth after having been injected to aid the drilling process that adds to the level of concern. As reference, one of the Michigan shale layers is known as the Antrim layer and has been drilled since the early 1960s. Interest recently has turned to extraction from Michigan’s Utica-Collingwood shale, which requires much deeper drilling. But, the technology for extraction has changed and so has the potential consequence to the environment. Hal Fitch, director of the Michigan Department of Envrionment Quality’s Office of Oil, Gas and Minerals, said in the Gaylord Herald-Times and Petoskey News-Review, the Antrim wells begin being productive at 500 to 2,500 feet, with a typical water withdrawal of 50,000 gallons per day. The UticaCollingwood wells, however, are much deeper at 4,000 to 5,000 feet and require a minimum of 2 million gallons of water per well. The previously-referenced nearly dozen earthquakes from March to December 2011 near Youngstown, Ohio were confirmed to be the result of high-pressure fluid injections by oil and gas companies. The governor of Ohio has announced an emergency ban on fracking fluids. RAMPS, continued from page 1 meeting slated for 7 p.m. Monday, April 23. In other business, the council: • Approved a five-year contract for auditing services with Rehmann Robson for the fiscal years ending June 30, 2012, through 2016 as recommended by Hastings City Clerk and Treasurer Tom Emery. Fees would start at $15,000 for 2012 and increase $500 each year with an additional $500 for F65 (an annual local audit fiscal report) preparation and $3,200 for single audits, if needed. • Authorized May to sign a memorandum of understanding defining the city’s obligations for Group Cares Work Camp 2013. The faith-based volunteer work camp for teens would coordinate with the Barry Community Foundation, Barry County United Way and Hastings First United Methodist Church to complete home repairs and maintenance for families in need. • Approved a request from Dave Solmes, owner of Dewey’s Auto Body, to hold the second annual Dewey’s Auto Body Great Gravity Grand Prix Soap Box Derby on North Boltwood Street starting at 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 25, during Summerfest. • Reviewed and approved a list of projects it desires to have included in the Community Economic Development Strategy which is being compiled by the Barry County Economic Development Alliance to be submitted to the United States Economic Development Administration. • Set a special workshop meeting for 5 p.m. Monday, April 23, to review a draft budget for the 2012-13 fiscal year. • Set a special workshop meeting for 6 p.m. Monday, May 14, to hear a report from the ad hoc committee discussing the future of Riverside Cemetery. In West Virginia, where drilling and fracking are commonly allowed and self-regulated, fracking waste water contaminated rivers, streams, lakes and wells The method and its by-products are blamed for killing all the fish in a river that separates the state from Pennsylvania. In some cases, residents have reported the water from their faucets catching on fire. Sandra Steingraber earned a doctorate in biology from the University of Michigan and now lives in New York from where she writes as an acclaimed author and ecologist. On a recent web posting, Steingraber provided another important perspective to the oil and gas exploration scenario that, some in Barry County fear, could be playing out locally: the power of money. Steingraber pointed out that public officials in Pennsylvania rolled over without hesitation when the gas industry dangled large sums of money in front of them. In her own county in New York, 40 percent of the land was leased out to drillers in a very “hush-hush manner.” “You don’t judge the probability of success when you do the right thing,” said Steingraber. “There are many times in history where people have participated in, or overlooked, atrocities and later denied personal moral responsibility for what occurred around them. Many people today are living in fracking zones and pretending everything is normal and fine. “Oil and gas companies come in and cut checks that they give to people in exchange for their compliance and silence,” she said. “When the health of children and the future of the planet are at stake, resistance is never futile ... If everyone who had quiet anxiety and concerns about fracking acted upon their values, it could be stopped.” Friday spaghetti supper starts countdown to walkathon The traditional spaghetti supper that officially kicks off fundraising activities for the May 21 Meals on Wheels Walkathon will be tomorrow from 4 to 6:30 p.m. at the Barry County Commission on Aging, 320 W. Woodlawn in Hastings. Full trimmings spaghetti will go down easy to the toe-tapping music of the Thornapple Valley Strings. Patrons will also get the first chance to view the gift basket silent auction and place an opening bid in yet another stage of the fundraising effort for the Meals on Wheels program that provided nearly 40,000 meals in 2011 to homebound Barry County seniors. “We should be very proud of the Meals on Wheels program we have in Barry County,” points out Corally O’Dell, COA nutrition program coordinator. “We have never, ever had a waiting list, in part thanks to the senior millage our community provides and to our fundraising. “In some counties, Meals on Wheels programs are cutting back to three or even one meal deliveries a week, and Barry County is so rural that sometimes our drivers are the only people some [seniors] will see all week.” Friday’s spaghetti dinner also serves as a gateway to the May 21 walkathon, COA’s largest fundraiser for all senior nutrition programs. In addition to the 39,200 meals delivered last year, COA provided more than 20,000 additional meals to county residents aged 60 and older through a congregate dining program at four dining sites, through local restaurants in townships without access to a full-time congregate dining site, and through an adult day care program. This year’s walkathon has been designed to mimic a Monopoly board game in which participants will collect token prizes from businesses along the walking route. Walkers will be encouraged to dress like their favorite Monopoly characters and will be served lunch at the COA, along with a program of games and festivities. Prizes will be awarded to the oldest and youngest walkers and to walkers with the best costumes and who collect the most pledges. Tickets are $5 in advance from the COA office or $7 at the door. Children under the age of 5 will eat free. All money collected will remain in Barry County. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, April 12, 2012 — Page 3 Hundreds enjoy Easter egg hunt in Nashville The hunt is on for Easter eggs in the toddler section at Putnam Park in Nashville Saturday. Toddlers were allowed to have a parent or adult guardian help in the search. On a picture-perfect spring day, hundreds of children and their families enjoy a traditional Easter egg hunt at Putnam Park in Nashville. A blast from a blow horn sends hundreds of children racing in search of Easter eggs in Nashville Saturday. Each egg had a candy treat, and some contained coupons redeemable for larger prizes. More road work to begin Monday Landon Pifer gets one of many hugs given by the Easter Bunny Saturday, April 7, at Putnam Park in Nashville during the annual Easter egg hunt sponsored by Grace Community Church. Pastor Don Roscoe of Grace Community Church in Nashville has the duty of blowing the horn to begin the race to find the eggs. Hundreds enjoy the annual Easter egg hunt the Saturday before Easter. Signs have been placed just outside of the city limits to let drivers know that work by Michigan Department of Transportation crews on M-43 and M-37 in the city of Hastings will begin Monday, April 16. Crews will be repaving two miles of M-43 and M-37 from the north city limits to South Hanover Street, as well as repairing the M-43 bridge over the Thornapple River. The $5 million project includes upgrading traffic signals, signs, and pavement markings and replacing water main. One lane of alternating traffic will be maintained under flag control. The work is expected to be completed by Sept. 28. New Car Loan 1.99% Interest 2.285% APR* We'll put you in the drivers seat with a great loan rate! *Annual percentage rate. Car loan is subject to credit review and approval. Rates are subject to change. A Hastings City Bank checking account with direct deposit and automatic loan payment is required to obtain this rate. Maximum term is 66 months. Advertised rate is for model years 2011 and newer. Example: a $25,000 loan at 2.285% APR would have 66 monthly payments of $400.22. Contact any Hastings City Bank lender for other rates and terms available. A line forms from just inside the entrance at Putnam Park in Nashville and wraps up to the hill and along the west bank Saturday, April 7. Hundreds of people of all ages attend the event hosted by Grace Community Church. 1-888-422-2280 07597276 �Page 4 — Thursday, April 12, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Student loan debt surpasses $1 trillion Glen Guernsey of Freeport snapped this photograph of a hummingbird at a feeder in late March. We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. We’ll select a photograph for publication each week. If you have a recent photo to share, please send it to Newsroom, Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Do you know? A time when men wore pretty aprons Do you recognize anyone in this photo, or do you know why the photo was taken? Everyone is wearing an apron, including the men. The titles on the books or packages some of the people are holding say ... Advance ... Buttons ... Bows ... J.C. Penney. The photo appears to have been taken in the former J.C. Penney store in downtown Hastings. Was this part of a promotion for new fabrics or patterns? Why were so many people included? What can you tell us about this photo? Who do you recognize? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event to reunite the photos with their original clippings or identify photos that may never have been used. (This photo, however, may not Have you have been published.) If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@j-adgraphics.com; or call 269-9459554. Last week’s photo of a man inside a structure that may have been a greenhouse or worm farm received no response. met? When a health issue convinced Tom Freridge of Hastings to complete a 32-year teaching and coaching career in 1997, he wasn’t really ready for retirement — but he was ready to spend more time with his guitar. Freridge, 66, who taught literature, speech, television, English and coached tennis and volleyball at Hastings High School, has played guitar since he was 18. He even gigged with what was once the Hastings Summerfest’s longest running band, the Thornapple River Boys, made up of fellow teachers Jim Metzger, Tom Maurer, Jerry Pattok and other musicians over the years. With the gift of time in retirement, Freridge began sitting in on music jams all over west and central Michigan and found that he preferred being on stage performing. Today, Freridge belongs to three bands. He plays bass guitar with the Thornapple Valley Strings, a group that performs for community groups throughout Barry County; and with Sweetwater, a bluegrass band from Battle Creek. He switches to a country format and a rhythm guitar with Nighthawk. “I like the ensemble part of playing music, I get an adrenaline rush from it,” says Freridge. “You have to achieve a certain precision with it which writing requires, as well. They’re both called ‘arts’ for a reason.” Freridge and wife, Marcia, are the parents of four grown children. Best instrument: The piano, it’s so flexible — though I’ve never heard one in a bluegrass band. Most beautiful place on earth: The Grand Tetons ... I’m glad I got to see Glacier National Park before the glaciers were gone. Favorite author: Ernest Hemingway; his precision, word choice and conciseness. He even said there’s an awful lot between the lines. Advice I’d give a young person: Keep According to a report released last week by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, the nation’s college tuition debt surpassed the trillion-dollar mark, outpacing personal credit card debt for the first time. The CFPB reported in its preliminary findings that the debt was roughly 16 percent higher than was reported earlier by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. The report also indicated that one in four student borrowers who have begun repaying their education debt are also behind on their payments. Experts warn that the increase in delinquencies is feeding a student loan debt bubble that’s ready to burst, causing some to rethink attending a college at all. A college loan is the one debt that a student can’t walk away from — even in bankruptcy — a debtor remains obligated for the full repayment amount. Some are now even questioning whether there are enough jobs to pay all of this debt. Once again, many of our nation’s leaders equate the tuition debt to more meaningless numbers. Unless Americans get a better understanding of just how much money a trillion dollars represents, it truly will become another meaningless number. The way Congress throws around numbers these days, one could conclude they really don’t have a clue of what makes up a trillion dollars. A trillion is 12 zeros to the left of the decimal point, or $1,000,000,000,000. Most people can’t even imagine that much money, yet, to some of our political leaders, it becomes just another number. In my column last week, I discussed the national budget deficit and the concern taxpayers should have with federal officials and the out-of-control debt like it’s chump change. In reality, $1 trillion of education debt or $16 trillion of national debt is more money than most Americans can compute. To better visualize $1 trillion, I’ve included a few examples of how to equate the large number. For example, if you laid one-dollar bills end to end, you could make a chain that stretches from the earth to the moon and back again 200 times before you ran out of dollar bills. Or, using a military jet flying at the speed of sound, reeling out a roll of dollar bills, it would take 14 years before the jet spun through $1 trillion dollars. And, if that doesn’t give you a better idea of the immense volume of $1 trillion, think about what $1 trillion represents to each and every taxpayer in the country. If you take $1 trillion and divide it up by our 300 million Americans, it comes out to $3,333 for every man, woman and child in the country. According to the book How Much is a Million? author David Schwartz says, “One million seconds breaks down to 11 1/2 days. A billion seconds is 32 years. Yet a trillion seconds is 32,000 years.” Now, to put that in context, think about our country’s current deficit, reported to be over $16 trillion and growing. Based on the mathematical figures I’ve listed here, that works out to $53,328 dollars for every man, woman and child in the country. So the next time you hear or read about our political leaders spending $1 trillion, don’t take it lightly. It’s a great deal of money — more than most of us can fathom and could ever afford. In recent years, we’ve been telling high school graduates the importance of getting a college education. In fact, over the past 10 years, we’ve promoted that the only way to find a good-paying long-lasting job is if you have a college degree. We’ve moved the nation’s educational emphasis from job training to college degrees, yet in recent years many of college students are finding those special jobs increasingly difficult to land. According to a report released by Manpower Inc., 31 percent of employers worldwide indicate difficulty in filling certain positions due to the lack of suitable workers from a list of highly skilled professions. Workers in specialized fields, such as electricians, carpenters, welders and industrial production positions are in critically short supply as more and more high schools and community colleges have gutted their technical training programs. Since the early 1980s, parents and educators have put the emphasis on the importance of getting a college or university degree as a way to secure a job in what’s become known as a knowledgebased economy. Yet, countless students with a college diploma — and the bills to show for it — are finding it difficult to get the jobs they were told would be available. As the country’s highly trained industrial workers are aging, companies are realizing that we don’t have enough trained workers to fill the growing number of positions available. So what are we to do? There’s no question that Michigan has a world-class college, university and community college post-secondary education system. Yet, we have allowed the state’s job training programs to deteriorate. It’s time to require some job training at our state’s high schools, while promoting internships at local companies. Plus, we must require all students get a high school diploma or equivalent. The national media continues to report high unemployment numbers, yet it dismisses the number of workers who have little or no experience for the jobs that do exist. In this competitive global work environment, today’s job seekers must have some basic job skills if they expect to find suitable employment. For some, receiving a college education is in their best interest, but for so many other students, getting specialized training in a given field after high school will give them a better chance for long-term employment. Looking back many years, students once used college for refinement and the development of personal potential. They became part of an academic culture that drove the social network of our nation. College wasn’t just about getting a job — it was about a higher purpose, and society was the beneficiary. A college education isn’t for everyone, especially as the nation’s national college debt tops $1 trillion. That’s more than our nation can afford. Fred Jacobs, vice president J-Ad Graphics HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, April 12 — Movie Memories celebrates Hollywood hunks with Alan Ladd in “Shane,” 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, April 13 — preschool story time listens to a story about being on the go, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; jazz festival site, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, April 14 — jazz festival continues, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, April 16 — library board meets, 4 What do you Tom Freridge an open mind, particularly to the needs of others — and hang on to a set of core values. Greatest tennis player: They played with different equipment, so you can’t really compare, but I’d say Rod Laver, Pete Sampras, and Roger Federer. What makes a good teacher: Empathy. A good teacher knows how a student feels. Greatest disappointment: A heart condition that limits my participation and keeps me from doing things with my grandkids. Favorite song: Whatever I’m learning at the time. Right now, it’s a country song, “Don’t Pass Me By” and a bluegrass song, “What a Wonderful Life.” Favorite performer: Peter, Paul, and Mary or Bob Dylan. I once knew every song by the Kingston Trio. Best thing about Barry County: Its rural setting. Each week, The Banner profiles a person from the community working behind the scenes, whose efforts may not make headlines, but whose dedication makes Barry County shine. We’ll provide a quick peek each week at some of Barry County’s stars. Do you know someone who should be featured? Send information to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@jadgraphics.com. to 6 p.m.; computer class answers the question “How do I Turn this darned thing on,” 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 17 — toddler story time brings in spring with stories about puddle weather, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30; open chess club, 6 to 8 p.m. Call the Hastings Public Library for more information, 269-945-4263. think? Are you concerned about potential fracking? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. Don’t forget to leave an opinion or comment. Last week’s question: Technical difficulties caused last week’s question to not be available. For this week: A spike in oil lease deals throughout Barry County has some people worried that hydraulic fracturing procedures will be used to explore for oil and gas. Are you in favor of “fracking” to tap oil and gas reserves? q q Yes No �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, April 12, 2012 — Page 5 Justice is not delivered To the editor: There is a failure to deliver justice in Barry County. The failure is to victims, the courts, law enforcement and the county-wide community. The local, county and state police, working the streets, roads and crime scenes, are doing their job. We have a court system that is the envy of our sister countries. We have a wellmanaged jail. What has gone wrong? Barry County spends more than 75 percent of its over $11 million budget for law enforcement and courts with related services and operating the jail. Are we getting our money’s worth? The failure to deliver justice to victims of criminal activity results when we have excessive plea bargaining. This results in being a victim twice, once by a criminal and again by ‘the system.’ People want their day in court. The courts are handicapped by the delay of timely delivery of information from the prosecutor’s office. That is failure. The police are handicapped by the unwillingness of the prosecutor’s office to put on trial repeat offenders who have been arrested time and again. That is failure. When the state attorney general has to do the job of our local elected prosecuting attorney, that is failure. When the prosecutor himself loses the majority of cases he tries, that is failure. Maybe we are lucky that he does not keep his 2008 campaign promise to try every capital case himself. We need a change, and that is why I am supporting Julie Nakfoor Pratt for prosecuting attorney. Shirley Barnum, Hastings Vote the ‘good ol’ boys’ out To the editor: I am writing in response to Eldon Shellenbarger’s letter in last week’s Banner, about Julie Nakfoor Pratt. He stated Julie would not be best for the position of prosecutor, that there would be a conflict of interest because of her husband being a police officer. He also said that she was part of the “good ol’ boys” system. That part I agree on, that in Barry County there is a system of ‘good ol’ boys,” but, unfortunately, you are going to find that in every county and state in the nation. Julie has too much integrity for that game. The only way to get rid of the game is to seek out the ones who are playing and for the voters to get them out of office. He also said Pratt and her husband would discuss cases. My personal feeling is, so what? Aren’t they on the same team anyway? If her husband was a defense attorney, that would be a completely different story. As far as being impartial, to me, that is the judges’ duty. The prosecutor’s job is to prosecute, to present the evidence given to them by the police officer, to try and get a conviction to the best of their ability. Julie Pratt and her husband both have enough integrity and are professional not to discuss something they know they shouldn’t. I still feel Julie Nakfoor Pratt is right for the position of prosecutor. I also feel that the taxpayers would get their money’s worth more so than they are now. Remember, the good ol’ boys’ system is all over. New replacements are needed. Jane Power, Hastings Change needed at county level To the editor: The April 5 Banner had a letter referring to Barry County’s good ol’ boy system. Here are some examples. According to an elected county official, the prosecutor gave advice to a person known for violent acts, when he accused that official of a bogus offense to the Michigan State Police. According to a former elected county official, the prosecutor helped him prepare subpoenas to numerous persons in his defense of alleged malfeasance charges. When a supporter of the prosecutor was running for political office, the office seeker was challenged for his use of questionable campaign practices. A call from the prosecutor to his supporter’s opponent was little more than a veiled threat of retaliation. The prosecutor, with his partisan cronies, attempted to dis-enfranchise almost 24,000 Barry County voters with their effort to shrink our county commission from eight to five members in their redistricting of the county in 2011. Their politically gerrymandered districts would have resulted in at least three new county commissioners, all likely to be political allies and beholden to the prosecuting attorney. Yes, there is a good ol’ boy system, and this is why we need a change. Restore justice to Barry County. Elect Julie Nakfoor Pratt. Jack Miner, Hastings Amash named Taxpayers’ Friend by national group The National Taxpayers Union honored Rep. Justin Amash (R-MI) with its “Taxpayers’ Friend Award” for 2011. NTU gave Amash the highest rating for any freshman representative and any member of the Michigan congressional delegation. “By casting principled votes for limited government time and again, Justin Amash has led by example in the fight to defend overburdened taxpayers across the country,” said NTU President Duane Parde. “If every member of Congress voted as carefully as Justin Amash, current and future generations of Americans could enjoy much lower taxes and a less wasteful government. Hard-working families in Michigan and across the nation owe Justin Amash a debt of gratitude for his effort on their behalf. Justin Amash has truly earned the title ‘Taxpayers’ Friend.’” The award is given to representatives and senators who achieve an “A” grade in NTU’s annual rating of congress. The rating, which is based on every roll call vote affecting fiscal policy, assigns a “taxpayer score” to each member of Congress that indicates his or her support for reducing or controlling federal spending, taxes, debt and regulation. For 2011, a total of 337 House and 234 Senate votes were selected. Amash’s score of 91 percent made him the most pro-taxpayer freshman and the sixth most pro-taxpayer representative overall. He also received the top score in the Michigan delegation. The average House score was 50 percent, and a total of 53 Congressmen received the award based on a minimum score of 85 percent in the House and 90 percent in the Senate. “I came to Washington to address the federal government’s unsustainable debt and to remove barriers to growth,” said Amash. “I’m honored to receive this recognition of my consistent record in favor of limited government and economic freedom.” The Hastings Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Helen Mudry • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 by Doug VanderLaan Editor The bottom line looked better to Barry County Commissioners at their Tuesday meeting when they learned details of the sale of bonds to finance the $6 million expansion at Thornapple Manor. Because the bonds for the new 23-bed demential unit at the county-owned facility were sold on Monday at a nearly 1 percent discount to the national general obligation bond index, Jon Wheatley, financial advisor with Detroit-based Bendzinski & Co., reported that the transaction will save county taxpayers approximately $690,000. “The county is to be commended,” said Wheatley. “Obviously, the marketplace views Barry County as a very secure, financially sound county and a great place to sell bonds.” Barry County will pay 3.18 percent interest on the 20-year bonds, a far more attractive rate than the average interest rate of 4.08 percent on similar 20-year general obligation bonds as listed at the time of Monday’s sale by the national Bond Buyer Index. That advantage, pointed out Wheatley, is directly due to the AA rating that the county carries from the financial rating agency, Standard & Poor’s of New York City and directly computes to a $690,000 savings over the lifetime of the bond issue. “I just think that’s incredible,” commented Commissioner Ben Geiger. “It’s a sign of our fiscal responsibility in being able to save our taxpayers money.” Commissioners also approved the awarding of final subcontracts Tuesday, allowing work to commence on the project whose completion date is scheduled for December. Still to be resolved, however, is the approval of a revised sanitary sewer service agreement to cover the new addition, an issue that perplexed commissioners during last week’s committee of the whole meeting. “The City [of Hastings] requested a restatement of the [original] 2006 agreement, which is basically an amendment,” county attorney Jim White told commissioners. “We prepared an amendment and sent it out to the city for comment but hadn’t heard anything back as of 6 p.m. last night.” As stated by White last week, the request to amend the existing agreement — rather than composing a new one between the county and the city — requires approval from the third party to the original agreement, Hastings Charter Township. White had reported to the commission last week that the township’s approval could be problematic in that the township had raised the issue of being reimbursed for services it provides to the countyowned facility, such as ambulance and fire protection. “My understanding is that if there is an issue tied to fire protection, it will not be tied to the sewer agreement,” White said Tuesday, suggesting that he hoped to have an agreement to present to the county for approval at the next county commission meeting Tuesday, April 24. In other action Tuesday, the board: • Ratified a tentative contract agreement reached with the County Command Officers Association that is consistent with recent county group contract agreements. According to the three-year agreement yet to be approved by their association, county officers will maintain current wages for the next two years with an opportunity for the association or the county to re-open the contract to negotiate wages in 2014. New hires will receive a hybrid pension plan that incorporates both a defined-benefit and a defined-contribution retirement plan. For current employees, the current defined benefit plan is maintained with employees paying an additional 2.5 percent of payroll, not to exceed 6.06 percent. The tentative agreement also includes a list of three arbitrators to choose from in cases of binding arbitration, implements the fixed caps set by state law for hospital and medical insurance a $5,500 annually for a single subscriber, $11,000 for a two-person subscriber, and $15,000 for full family subscribers, modifies uniform language whereby only in cases of a biohazard will the employer clean uniforms, and incorporates language from the Local Government and School District Fiscal Accountability Act recently enacted into law regarding appointment of an emergency financial manager. • Approved a resolution to increase employee pension contributions by 2.5 percent, up from 6.53 percent for sheriff deputies and sheriff corrections officers, pursuant to the collective bargaining agreement effective Jan. 1 for all employees hired before Jan. 1. Employees hired after that date will participate in a the hybrid defined-benefit/definedcontribution plan. • Provided authorization for the drain commissioner to make needed repairs and maintenance to the Algonquin Lake Dam in excess of the $10,000 annual expenditure that must be approved by resolution of the county board so as to comply with Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act requirements. • Amended the term of the Joint Workforce Development Agreement from a biennial agreement to one that annually renews automatically with a 60-day termination period. • Renewed the Peer Review Services Agreement and the Monumentation Surveyor Agreement between the county and Brian Reynolds of Reynolds Land Surveying and Mapping, P.C. for one year. • Approved a settlement agreement with courthouse employee Karolyn Brower in which benefits not previously prorated with hours worked are correctly adjusted. • Heard Barry County citizen Cynthia Dill read a statement calling attention to the potentially harmful effects of hydraulic fracturing of underground rock — known as fracking — and the aggressive movement by oil and gas lessors to obtain rights to drill on county land, including large sections of the Barry State Game Area in Yankee Springs. Dill urged the commission to consider measures to outlaw fracking and handed out a news account of a North Carolina county that had already taken such a measure. • Received notice from Commissioner Dan Parker that he will not seek reelection to his District 2 seat. “Due to reapportionment, I would have to run against [County Chair] Craig [Stolsonburg] and, whether I won or not, I would feel some misgivings with that. I enjoy this and I love serving the people of Barry County, but I think Craig is doing a good job. I feel this commission is asking questions, it’s getting both sides of the story, and I’ve learned a lot from you guys. I appreciate all the camaraderie and getting business done in this county.” Parker related that it was Don Haney, with whom he served on the Thornapple Kellogg School board, and, especially, Stolsonburg who had encouraged him to run two years ago. Parker’s closeness with Stolsonburg goes back to the days when his children played soccer with Stolsonburg. Parker promised that his days of service will not be over. “I’ve always believed in blooming where you’re planted,” said Parker. Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. 77567025 IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV Thornapple Manor bond sale pays big dividends for county �Page 6 — Thursday, April 12, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Call 945-9554 to subscribe to the Hastings Banner David H. Settles Family and friends, please join us for a celebration of David’s life and disposition of his remains on Saturday, May 5, 2012 at 11 a.m. at Riverside Cemetery in Hastings. The service will be led by the Rev. Mark Engle. A luncheon will follow at the Elks Club on Woodlawn Ave. Area Obituaries Robert Finch “Bob” Stauffer Worship Together… Billie Leinaar Devries Gerald “Abe” Bestrom 77567077 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. CHURCH OF THE LIVING GOD A full gospel church. 1240 W. State Rd., Hastings. Pastor Doug Davis. 269-948-9740. Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study 6 p.m. Sunday School and Youth Group for all ages. Come and worship the Lord with us! . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. ORANGEVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH 6921 Marsh Rd., 2 miles south of Gun Lake, Plainwell. Phone 269664-4377. OrangevilleBaptist. org. Pastors Dan Bowman and Adam Parmenter. Sundays - 9:45--10:45 a.m. “Dealing With Your Past” March through May. March 25 - 6 p.m. “Messiah in the Passover’ Seder Meal. March 31 - 7 p.m. Orangeville Cafe. April 8 - 7:30 & 11 a.m. Easter Celebration. April 22-27 - Evangelist Will Rice. Children, teen and adult Sunday School classes; 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Worship; 5:30 p.m. Junior and Senior High Word of Life Clubs. Tuesday - 9 a.m. Men’s Prayer and Bible Study. Wednesday - 6:30 p.m. Pre-school through 6th grade Word of Life Gophers & Olympians. Prayer & Bible Study - 7 p.m. 6 p.m. Teen Word of Life. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Phone 269-721-8077. Minister Ryan Wieland 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Praise Worship Service; Noon alternate weekends Youth Group Tuesday. Covenant Prayer Group, Wednes-day 6:30 p.m., Choir Practice. Thursday 7 p.m. Praise Band Practice. 2nd and 4th Thursdays at 7 p.m. Christ’s Quilters. Friday 6:30 p.m., CPRChrist’s Plan for Recovery (meal served). For more information small groups, special evnts or if you have a prayer requst, call the church office and see postings on WEB site: www.countrychapel.umc.org. SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 or -517-852-1806. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 9:15 Contemporary Worship, 10:30 a.m. Refreshments, 11 a.m. Traditional Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Pastor of Senior Adults and Visitation, Don Brail. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. for children, youths and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Senior High Youth Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Mid-Week: 6:30-7:45 p.m. Pioneer Clubs, age 4th to 5th grade, and Junior High Youth Group, 6th-8th grade. Thursday: 10 a.m. Senior Adult Discussion and 11:30 a.m., lunch at Wendy’s. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Sunday, April 15 - Worship at 8 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. Holy Communion Every Sunday! April 15 - Evangelism Comm. & Constitution Task Force Meeting after 2nd Service; High School Youth Group at 6:30 p.m.; Men’s AA 7 p.m. April 16 - Pennock Hospice at 5 p.m.; Spiritual AA at 7 p.m.; Gracegram Deadline. April 17 - Congregation Council at 7 p.m. April 18 - Wordwatchers Bible Study at 10 a.m. April 19 - Clapper Kids Bell Choir at 3:45 p.m.; Grace Notes Bell Choir at 5:45 p.m.; Hare Raisers at 7 p.m.; Choir at 7:15 p.m. 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-9459414 or 945-2645, fax 269-9452698. Pastor Amy Luckey website http://www.discovergrace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; Sunday School for ALL Ages; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service; 6 p.m. Youth Group. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.first churchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot.com. Thursday 11:30 Women’s Brown Bag Bible Study; 6:30 p.m. Choir Rehearsal; 7:30 p.m. Thornapple Jazz Festival. Friday - 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday - 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday 4 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 5 p.m. Pickleball; 6:30 p.m. Financial Peace University. HASTINGS REFORMED CHURCH “A Historic Reformed Community.” Sunday morning services begin at 10 a.m. Meeting at the Barry County Commission on Aging building, 320 W. Woodlawn Ave., Hastings. Pastor: Peter Adams. 616-690-8609 padams@juno.com. The Congregation of Freeport Baptist Church Would like to invite Our community, friends & family to the This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Fiberglass Products Lauer Family Funeral Homes 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 KENTWOOD, MI - Robert Finch "Bob" Stauffer, age 83, of Kentwood, passed away, Wednesday March 21, 2012 at his residence. He was born October 6, 1928, the fifth son of Alcid Christian Stauffer and Lotta (Fairchild) Stauffer on the Kaiser Farm near Alto. His father was the herdsman for that farm for a time, and in 1929 moved the family to the Cook Farm in Hastings, where the family continued to live for many years. Bob was preceded in death by a sister, Nettie Mae, in 1917; his father, Alcid in 1935; sister, Ruth in 1949; mother, Lotta in 1969; brother, Emerson in 1986; brother, Stanley in 1996; sister, Hazel in 1998; brother, Albert in 2000; sister, Mae in 2006; and most recently brother, Arthur in February of this year. Bob is survived by 15 nieces and nephews and their families. Until his mother’s death he lived in the family home with her on Cook Road. Bob attended Hastings schools, and his senior year was a part of a men’s quartet that won a singing scholarship awarded by the University of Michigan to attend the Interlochen Music Camp in Northern Michigan. As most of his family and friends will agree, singing was one of his passions. During his 83 years, Bob used his voice to entertain many, including in recent years Christmas shoppers at the Woodland and Rivertown Crossing Malls in Grand Rapids. After graduation in 1947, Bob joined his brothers working on the farm until he was drafted into the Army in 1951, and was later honorably discharged. Then he returned to Hastings where he joined as the chef in the family business, the Highlands Dairy and the Highlander Restaurant. He attended training as a chef at the Kellogg Center in East Lansing, where he successfully completed courses in restaurant management. He worked at the Highlander for many years until it closed in the 1960s. Bob continued in that career working at various restaurants in Grand Rapids. Bob retired and moved to Tucson, AZ in the 1990s where he lived, and wintered over until his return to the Grand Rapids area where he lived until his death. These facts only touch the surface of Bob’s life, and reflect little of who he was. He was in most people’s eyes who knew him a troubadour of both song, and positive thinking. He was a poet, and a dandy dresser. To most people he was “Diamond Bob”, a gentle man who loved to walk the Woodland Mall, chatting with other patrons, sharing encouraging words, and friendship to many. Bob was a blithe spirit, seeking out daily ways to sit gently on others‚ hearts and minds. He will be missed. A graveside service was held, Monday, April 2, 2012 at Oakwood Cemetery in Lowell. Pastor Gary Newton officiated the service. A Celebration of Life Service will be held Saturday April 14, 2012 at 1 p.m. at Creston Memorial VFW Post, 1535 Monroe N.W. Grand Rapids. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of one’s choice. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a message or memory to the family of Robert Stauffer. 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 R e t i re m e n t Celebration Party Rev. Walter Winebrenner for Saturday, April 21st, 2012 2-5 pm at Ever After Banquet Hall 1230 N. Michigan Ave. Hastings, MI 49058 Cake & punch provided, no gifts please 07596968 Please join the family for a memorial service in honor of Billie, who passed away February 29, 2012 in Tennessee. Services will begin at 1 p.m. on April 21, 2012 at Cedar Creek Cemetery, north of Pifer Rd. on Cedar Creek Rd. A luncheon after the service will take place at the home of Jenni and Earl (Leinaar) Bair, 7580 Wright Rd., Hastings. Let’s enjoy each others memories. Norman “Jack” Lenz HASTINGS, MI - Norman “Jack” Lenz, age 75, of Hastings, passed away April 9, 2012 in Apache Junction, AZ. He was born January 13, 1937 in Hastings, the son of Harry and Reatha (Ferris) Lenz. Jack graduated from Hastings High School in 1955. He honorably served in the United States Army. Jack married Judith Hall on May 27, 1961. He worked for Hoffman Brothers in Battle Creek, as a heavy equipment operator. Jack also held positions as Barry County Road Commissioner and Charlton Park Commissioner. He owned and operated the family farm, which was one of his greatest loves, retiring in 1999. Jack was a member of the Hope United Methodist Church. His interests included fishing, British race cars, antique tractors, restoring land back to farmable land, and traveling. Jack was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Reatha Lenz; wife, Judith Ann Lenz; father-in-law, Dale Hall; brother-inlaw, Mark Anderson. He is survived by his daughter, Jill (Ron) Cotant; sons, John (Liz) Lenz, Joel (Natalie) Lenz, Jim (Carrie) Lenz; grandchildren, Ellen, Erin and Annette Cotant; Callan and Suzie Lenz; Evan Lenz; Abbie, Alec and Drew Lenz; sister, Betty (Dick) Bryans; mother-in-law, Dolores Hall; brothers-in-law, Ron (Juanita) Hall and Chris (Cindy) Hall; sisters-in-law, Carole (Milt) Poulos and Christine Anderson and many friends. Memorial contributions may be made to the following charities: Barry County Agricultural Fair Improvement Fund, 1350 N. M-37 Hwy., Hastings, MI 49058 or Hastings FFA Alumni, c/o Kim Falconer, 3575 Hammond Rd., Hastings, MI 49058 Visitation will be held Thursday, April 12, 2012, 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. and Friday, April 13, 2012, 10-11 a.m. at the Hope United Methodist Church. A memorial service will be held Friday, April 13, 2012 at 11 a.m. at the Hope United Methodist Church, 2920 S. M-37 Hwy. Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Richard Moore, officiating the service. A luncheon will immediately follow the memorial service at the church. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, please visit out website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guestbook and to leave a message or memory for the family. HASTINGS, MI - Gerald "Abe" Bestrom, age 75, of Hastings died Tuesday, April 3, 2012. He was born February 27, 1937 in Sparta, the son of Lawrence and Hazel (Passage) Bestrom. He attended Caledonia High School. Abe worked at Keeler Brass in Grand Rapids for many years and Bradford White in Middleville. After a man told him he looked like Abe Lincoln he soon grew a beard and at the age of 51 he hit the road in his RV painted like a log cabin, visiting 26 states, many schools and senior citizens to rekindle the era of Abe Lincoln. He was an Abe Lincoln presenter in Branson, MO for Music Festival for more than two years, he won many National Abe Look Alike awards in Illinois. He was a presenter of Abe Lincoln in the movie Conspirator with Robert Redford. He loved saw playing and won many National Awards. He also enjoyed singing in the trio group Hallelujah Jubilairs. He was a former member of Middleville Baptist Church where he was very active in children's ministry for more than ten years. He is survived by his children, Patty (Mark) Wentzel, Dan Bestrom, and Ivan (Pamela) Bestrom all of Florida; two grandchildren, Nicholas and Sarah; twin brother, Harold (Thelma) Bestrom; brother, David (MaryAnn) Bestrom; sister, Chrystal (Clifford) Blain; special friends, Maxine McIntyre, Gerald Gieseler, Marian RuprightPeltz, Dan and Gladys Everett., Carolyn Bird and many other friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Orlin Bestrom and sister, Garnet VanLaan. Funeral services were held Tuesday, April 10, 2012 aat the Bible Missionary Church, 315 E. Marshall St., Hastings. Brother Blaine Shaw will officiate. Arrangements are by the Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. Please visit our website to leave a message or memory to the family. www.girrbachfuneralhome.net. Peggy L. (Swift) Willison FLINT, MI - Peggy L. (Swift) Willison, of Flint, formerly of Hastings, age 65, passed away March 12, 2012 at Hurley Medical Center. Cremation has taken place. There will be a celebration of life Saturday, April 14, 2012 at the Baltimore Township Hall on Dowling Rd. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association. Peggy was born in Hastings, on February 2, 1947. She was known for her love of animals. Peggy is survived by her daughter, Darcy (Jim) Christy; parents, Darwin (Marian) Swift; brother, Steve (Carla) Pocernik; two nieces; fiancé, Michael Shewmaker. She was preceded in death by her mother, Marjorie (Boyes) Swift. Please share your thoughts with the family at www.allenfuneralhomeinc.com. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, April 12, 2012 — Page 7 BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY by Gerald Stein Facelift underway in downtown Nashville NORTH WEST N: --M: Q J 6 4 3 L: A K Q J 9 7 3 K: K N: 7 5 4 2 M: 7 L: 10 8 2 K: A J 8 6 2 Jacob Daniel Nesbitt, Hastings and Melissa Ann Avery, Hastings. Scott Tracy Staskus, Middleville and Kimberly Luella Richards, Middleville. Eric Scott Vandecar, Hastings and Doreen Ann Rankin, Battle Creek. Brett Russell Walters, Plainwell and Jody Ann McCord, Delton. EAST N: K J 10 8 6 3 M: A K 10 8 L: 4 K: 5 3 Newborn Babies SOUTH: N: A Q 9 M: 9 5 2 L:6 5 K: Q 10 9 7 4 Denis Mark, born at Pennock Hospital on March 28, 2012 at 4:02 a.m. to Denis Smith and Michelle Plont of Delton. Weighing 7 lbs. 1 oz. and 19 inches long. ***** Emry Daymin, born at Pennock Hospital on March 27, 2012 at 7:56 a.m. to Patricia Ginebaugh and Brandon Burke of Hastings. Weighing 8 lbs. 3 ozs. and 19 1/2 inches long. ***** Kerigan Lynn, born at Pennock Hospital on March 26, 2012 at 3:34 p.m. to Ashley and Mark Peake of Hastings. Weighing 8 lbs. 0 ozs. and 21 inches long. Lead: Pick it! The second-to-the-last hand of the day with North-South vulnerable provided a lot of discussion at the BC Bridge Club. The hand had been played seven times, and all seven declarers had been set. What had happened at the bridge tables? While six of the tables had played in diamonds at the four and five level, one table played spades in the East-West seats. Looking at the wild distribution of this hand might lead us to some basic conclusions on bidding and play of the hand put together. The bidding went as follows at Table One: Dealer: West West North East South Pass 2K Pass 2L Pass 4NT Pass 5L Pass Pass Pass Using a strong 2K bid, North elected to try for slam with his highly and wildly distributional hand. Knowing that his partner South would be playing the hand, (partnership agreement is that 2L is a waiting bid), North wanted to find out, if, by chance, South had a couple of key aces. If the aces were not there, then 5L would be a final bid. When South responded to the Blackwood Convention with 5 Diamonds, she acknowledged one ace. Which one of the three missing aces was North’s guess, but by then it was too late, and he passed knowing that he had put his partner into a tough, probably unmakeable, contract. All passed, and the play began with a contract of 5 diamonds in the South. West wasted no time by leading his singleton heart, and East was poised and ready, taking the first two heart tricks with the Ace and King of hearts, and then leading a small heart for a West ruff. West seeing the bare King of clubs on the board, easily led the Ace of clubs, and NorthSouth claimed the rest, down two tricks vulnerable for a minus 200 points. Five of the six other tables did much the same, bidding to the five level in diamonds and being set two tricks for a minus score. One creative East-West team saw things differently, however, and they entered the bidding as contenders. Over North’s opening bid, East threw in a spade overcall and found support from his partner West. They arrived at a four spade contract, only to be doubled by South. She was sitting behind East with the Ace and Queen of spades, good, for sure, of two tricks plus whatever North might have. The nonvulnerable East-West team for all their sacrificing ended up down one trick for a minus 100 points. They ended up with the worst East-West score as all of the other East-West teams had played their cards right and claimed the prize of a plus score. All in all, the BC Bridge Club (the Be Careful Bridge Club) posted their motto on the door: “To the Victors belong the Spoils.” (Last week’s Bridge Question answer: Source of the quotation “Things fall apart”? W.B.Yeats, Irish poet, used the line in his poem “The Second Coming.” Nigerian novelist Chinua Achebe used Yeats’ line as the title of his novel Things Fall Apart.) Bridge Question for this week: Where does the saying “To the victor belong the spoils” come from? ***** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) Latest updates from the KCC Institute for Learning in Retirement (ILR) Office: -- Bridge Class #2, The Play of the Hand, for intermediate and for advanced beginner players, will be offered in Battle Creek for nine weeks beginning April 23 -- A nine-week beginning bridge class, "Bidding in the 21st Century," will be offered at the KCC Fehsenfeld Center on Wednesday mornings from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. beginning April 25. Beginners and intermediate bridge players are welcome. Call the ILR office at 269-948-9500 Extension 2804 for more information on both classes. Marriage Licenses Renovations are under way in downtown Nashville. First on the list is Court-Side owned by Lori and Phares Courtney. A facade grant is funding the restoration. by Shari Carney Staff Writer The village of Nashville is undergoing a renovation as three businesses are about to be transformed. The first is Court-Side Custom Screen Printing and Embroidery, 117 S. Main St., which is owned by Phares and Lori Courtney. “It’s definitely exciting,” said Lori Courtney. “It’s been in the works awhile.” Scaffolding is in place and construction has begun. Cabral Construction from Hastings is doing the renovation, restoring brickwork and replacing windows. Final touches will include changes to the entrance, an awning and new signage. The grant requires a 25 percent match by company owners. Expected completion will be late April or early May. Great Northern Bowhunting Company, 201 N. Main St.,, is next on the docket, followed by Step ‘N Time Dance Studio, at 207 N. Main. Algonquin Lake group to meet The Algonquin Lake Community Association will host its spring general membership meeting Thursday, April 19, at 7:30 p.m. at the lake association lodge on Iroquois Trail. Topics will include weed control, improvements at the ALCA dam, the spring dinner and roadside pick-up, which both are Saturday, April 21, and other lake business. All lake residents are welcome. Jan Replogle Please join us for a memorial celebration to honor Jan Replogle, our amazing wife and mother. We have been mourning this horrible loss but are rejoicing in the many wonderful memories we will have forever. She touched so many people in so many ways with her outspoken and caring demeanor, we are looking forward to seeing all of you. We invite all of her friends and family to join us in celebrating her life and share your memories with us on April 21, 2012 at the Hope Township Hall from 11am to 4pm. We will have a caterer providing food and drinks so please come spend some time with us to help honor Jan. The Hope Township Hall is between Shultz Rd. and Head Lake Rd. on M-43. A small service will also be taking place at Fort Custer National Cemetery at 15501 Dickman Rd. in Augusta on April 26, 2012 at 2:30pm. New DNR initiative aims to resolve encroachment cases on public land Deal of the Week Buy Any Tree and get … • 1 Year Warranty • 1 Bag of Mulch • 1 Bag of Soil • 3 Tree Stakes Fruit Trees & DELIVER! Fruit Plants WE – Available – MULCHES 4 Colors & Cedar Available PERENNIALS Are In Buy 5 Get 1 FREE 5715 South M-66, Nashville • 517-852-1864 Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8:30 - 6:00; Sat. 8:30 - 5:00 EwingLandscaping@yahoo.com ® RN/LPN Private Duty Immediate Openings Nashville - Marshall - Springport - Jackson Various Shifts Available Trach and vent experience preferred Please Send Resume to: recruiter@optimalstaffing.com 07597388 Selling Horse Equipment The Friday, April 20TH & Saturday, April 21ST 10:00am to 4:00pm Large Equipment: Horse trailer, horse drawn bobsled, doctor’s buggy, spring wagon & cart, some harness available. Riding Equipment: 77564841 One dressage saddle, two hunt seat saddles, one Western saddle, one old Calvary saddle w/saddlebags, English & Western bridles, many saddle pads, girths, girth covers and much more. Susan Stott, 1300 W. Bristol, Delton, MI 49046 269-671-5000 • CASH ONLY! 06778454 the Revised Judicature Act), the property will be transferred to the property owner after a new property survey is completed and new boundaries are established. Structural encroachments which have occurred after March 1, 1973, will be resolved through land sales. The DNR will streamline its land sale process for encroachment cases being resolved through the ERI. Individuals with non-structural encroachments, such as fences, gardens, sheds or other non-permanent structures, occurring on public land after March 1, 1973, will need to remove the items. By providing a streamlined and legal process to resolve their trespass without penalty, the Encroachment Resolution Initiative is intended as an incentive program for property owners encroaching on public land. Throughout the duration of the ERI, the DNR will not seek penalties or take escalated enforcement action for any encroachments that are resolved by Dec. 31. After the application period closes Dec. 31, any existing or new cases of encroachment that were not brought forward will be dealt with through DNR encroachment and enforcement procedures. “We sincerely hope that anyone currently encroaching on public land will take advantage of this opportunity to resolve trespass situations,” said Stokes. “Public land is intended to be just that – land available for the use and enjoyment of the public. Such encroachments reduce everyone’s ability to enjoy the state’s natural resources that should be freely accessible to residents and visitors, alike.” Individuals with questions about the ERI should contact Lori Burford, DNR encroachment specialist, at 989-275-5151, ext. 2100, or via email at burfordl@michigan.gov. For more information on the ERI, visit www.michigan.gov/dnr-encroachment. 06778511 The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has announced the Encroachment Resolution Initiative, an effort geared at resolving the hundreds of cases of encroachment, or trespassing, occurring on public land throughout the state. Through this initiative, the DNR will work with property owners who are trespassing by having either a permanent structure or historical encroachment on public land. Property owners with known encroachments on public land will be notified by letter from the DNR that they are eligible to resolve their case without penalty through the ERI. Property owners adjacent to public land who are not sure whether they are encroaching may use tools on the DNR website (www.michigan.gov/dnr-encroachment) to determine if they are, in fact, trespassing on state-managed land. “I asked our staff to come up with a creative, customer-focused way of resolving some of our most difficult encroachment situations,” said DNR Director Rodney Stokes. “The Encroachment Resolution Initiative reaches out to residents with a real, workable solution. It will help us appropriately document public land ownership and resolve those trespass cases that tie up substantial staff time and resources and make land-management issues more challenging for the state.” In Barry County, the DNR owns property in Thornapple, Irving, Yankee Springs, Rutland, Orangeville and Hope townships Under the ERI, property owners who are encroaching on public land managed by the DNR can, starting May 1, apply to have their cases resolved. Applications will be accepted until Dec. 31. During this amnesty period, DNR staff will work with property owners to properly document ownership. If a property owner can show that his or her encroachment was in place prior to March 1, 1973, (in keeping with a 1988 amendment of �Page 8 — Thursday, April 12, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of by Elaine Garlock Tonight is meeting time for the Lake Odessa Area Historical Society at 7 p.m. at the Freight House. The speaker from Bellevue will share stories of little towns time forgot. Visitors can hear of these almost-lost places in Michigan. The Ionia County Genealogical Society will meet Saturday, April 14, at 1 p.m. at the Freight House. This will be a sharing program with members sharing their “brick wall” triumphs, finding those elusive single clues. The Tri-River Museum group meets Tuesday, April 17, at the Flaying Falcon Museum in Greenville on Cass Street. Hosts will be Bill and Caroline Garlick. The tenth Festival of Tables is coming to Lake Odessa Library Saturday, April 21. Each hostess decorates her table and invites guests. However, some tickets are available at the library. This is sponsored by Friends of the Library and the Grow committee. All Booked to Grow is the theme of the fundraising group intent on an addition to the library. An evening for providing information to local families needing help in certain areas of life has been planned for April 26, with a free spaghetti dinner for the first 200 people who apply. Booths will be set up by many groups equipped to provide help in areas of child care, dental and medical assistance, housing, clothing, emergency food needs and employment. Time for kindergarten round-up. June 5 and 7 are set for the dates at the four elementary schools in Lakewood system. Sunday’s service at Central United Methodist Church featured a different approach on Palm Sunday with a colorful runner spread at the head of the center aisle and palms fanned out on the runner instead of being divided into single leaves. On Easter Sunday, the choir rendered a triumphant anthem sung a capella and a stirring message. Members are appreciating each Sunday, since they will be losing their current pastor at the end of June to Jackson First United Methodist Church. However, a new pastor will be in place by July 1. The John Scheidt family from Marquette was here for Easter at the home of Eunice Goodemoot. The Carl Barcrofts at Carlton Center hosted their local family plus granddaughters from Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo and daughter and son-in-law from Bloomingdale. The blood mobile is returning on Monday, April 23, to fellowship hall for the bimonthly collection. Does anyone remember ever a year when lilacs were in bloom in early April? A few decades ago, lilacs were used as cemetery flowers for Memorial Day. In more recent years, they had their season earlier in May, and we noted a chance in climate if they bloomed so early. Dogwood, flowering quince and forsythia, plus the early variety of tulips, are near the end of their blooming time. Most lawns have been mowed one or more times. Some early gardeners have planted potatoes. Does this mean we will have an extra hot summer or will we have a late spring in June and July? This is a year for the record books – whatever else the year holds weatherwise. EDWARD JONES Put time – and tax-advantaged investments — on your side If you’re relatively young, and you’ve only been investing for a few years, you possess an asset that is invaluable and cannot be replaced: time. And the more time you spend contributing to tax-advantaged investments, the better off you may be. As an investor, time is your ally for two reasons. First, the more time you give to your growth-oriented investments, the greater their growth potential. And second, the effects of market volatility have tended to decrease over time, though, as you no doubt have heard, “past performance is no guarantee of future results.” Clearly, it pays to put time on your side. And when you’re investing in tax-advantaged vehicles, time becomes an even more critical component of investment success, especially when you’re young and have several decades ahead of you before you retire. Suppose, for example, that you put $200 per month into to an investment on which you paid taxes every year. If you earned a hypothetical 7 percent return on this investment, you’d end up with about $324,000 after forty years. But if you put that same $200 per month into a tax-deferred investment, such as a traditional IRA, and you earned that same 7 percent return, you’d wind up with about $513,000 after forty years. Of course, once you starting taking withdrawals, presumably when you’re retired, you’ll have to pay taxes on your earnings, so your after-tax accumulation would be about $385,000, assuming you took your IRA in a lump sum (which most people don’t) and also assuming you were in the 25 percent tax bracket. However, by the time you retire, you may be in a lower brack- et. Plus, you have some control over how much you withdraw each year, so you may be able to affect the taxes you’ll have to pay. Furthermore, depending on your income level, your contributions to a traditional IRA may be tax deductible in the years in which you make the contributions. (Keep in mind that this hypothetical example is for illustrative purposes only and does not represent a specific investment or investment strategy.) While tax deferral is obviously a nice feature for an investment, tax-free may be even better. So, if you meet the income requirements, you might want to consider investing in a Roth IRA, which provides tax-free earnings withdrawals, provided you’ve had your account for at least five years and you don’t start taking withdrawals until you’re at least 59-1/2. This means that, in the above example, you’d have accumulated that same $513,000 — but you won’t have to pay taxes on your withdrawals. Generally speaking, the Roth IRA may make more financial sense for people who are eligible, but if you think you’re going to be in a lower tax bracket when you retire, and your income level permits you to deduct some of your contributions, you may want to consider a traditional IRA. Consult with your tax advisor for guidance on the most appropriate approach for your situation. When it comes to building resources for retirement, it’s almost impossible to save and invest “too much.” So take full advantage of both time and tax-advantaged investments. By putting these investments to work for you, and by keeping them at work, you’ll be putting time on your side as you work toward your financial goals. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 30.95 -.14 AT&T 30.13 -1.30 BP PLC 42.30 -2.21 CMS Energy Corp 21.62 -.76 Coca-Cola Co 72.02 -1.74 Eaton 46.45 -2.94 Family Dollar Stores 62.85 -.67 Fifth Third Bancorp 13.90 -.68 Flowserve CP 109.24 -7.95 Ford Motor Co. 11.79 -.85 General Mills 38.51 -1.13 General Motors 23.71 -1.83 Intel Corp. 27.45 -.66 Kellogg Co. 52.93 -.45 McDonald’s Corp 97.67 -1.73 Pfizer Inc. 21.98 -.56 Ralcorp 73.50 +.45 Sears Holding 59.23 -8.83 Spartan Motors 4.64 -.51 Spartan Stores 17.52 -.45 Stryker 53.11 -2.47 TCF Financial 10.86 -1.00 Walmart Stores 59.93 -.72 Gold $1658.25 +12.57 Silver $31.74 -.84 Dow Jones Average 12,715 -485 Volume on NYSE 916M +144M SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN All about Social Security disability by Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Disability is something most people do not like to think about, but if you’re not able to work because you have a medical condition that is expected to last at least one year or result in death, you may be able to get Social Security disability benefits. You should apply for disability benefits as soon as you become disabled. It can take months to obtain all your medical records and process an application for disability benefits (three to five months, on average). Generally, the information needed includes names, addresses and phone numbers of the doctors, caseworkers, hospitals and clinics who took care of you and dates of your visits; names and dosage of all the medicine you take; medical records from your doctors, therapists, hospitals, clinics and caseworkers you already have in your possession; laboratory and test results; and a summary of where you worked and the kind of work you did. It is important that you do not delay filing for disability benefits if you don’t have all the above information in your possession. Social Security will assist you in getting the necessary documents, including obtaining your medical records. The fastest and most convenient way to apply for disability is online at www.socialsecurity.gov/applyfordisability. You can save your application as you go, so you can take a break at any time. If you do not want to file online, then call 800-772-1213 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. to make an appointment. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. State News Roundup Former state fairgrounds to be sold Gov. Rick Snyder Monday signed legislation to transfer the former Michigan State Fairgrounds out of state ownership and return the land to what he calls productive uses. The fairgrounds have been closed since the last state fair in 2009, and the unused property inside the city of Detroit now costs the state more than $1 million each year to maintain and secure. “I am pleased to begin the process of returning 163 acres of Pure Michigan to be used for the betterment of the city and our state,” Snyder said. “This legislation also removes an excessive fiscal cost from the state ledgers. I look forward to a positive future for the Michigan State Fairgrounds.” The Department of Technology, Management and Budget now can prepare the property for sale by a number of methods, but the intent is to transfer the fairgrounds to the State Land Bank Fast Track Authority. Snyder then will appoint a five-member State Fairgrounds Advisory Committee made up of representatives from local neighborhood organizations to recommend a course of action. Michigan asparagus growers have bumper crop 07597280 It’s only April, but Michigan trees are budding, flowers are blooming, and asparagus is popping up early on the state’s produce farms. Michigan’s asparagus growers are looking to hire hundreds of farm workers in the next two weeks to begin harvesting this year’s crop. “Michigan’s asparagus growers help feed the nation, create jobs and boost the state’s agricultural economy,” said Belen Ledezma, director of migrant, immigrant and seasonal worker services for the Workforce Development Agency, State of Michigan. “This year growers are in danger of losing their crop and the benefits it brings unless they can hire enough workers to harvest it.” The typical asparagus season in Michigan runs from mid-April through June. Michigan growers are looking to hire up to 229 workers immediately, with more openings expected in the coming weeks. Michigan asparagus, unlike asparagus from other states, is hand-snapped above the ground, yielding a more tender and flavorful product, according to growers. Workers harvest the asparagus while riding specially designed picking carts. “Last year, Michigan growers mowed off more than a million pounds of asparagus because we lacked an adequate workforce to harvest it,” said John Bekker, president of the Michigan Asparagus Advisory Board. Saugatuck. For more information on the DEQ program, see www.michigan.gov/aocprogram. The Michigan Office of the Great Lakes recently announced major steps in the effort to improve two Michigan rivers on the national Areas of Concern list. Michigan has 14 Areas of Concern. Historic pollution has significantly degraded the ecosystem in Great Lakes coastal waterways. Each site is defined by specific beneficial use impairments, conditions that define the nature of the pollution and guide restoration efforts by federal, state and local partners. The Kalamazoo River and River Raisin officially have retired their Degradation of Aesthetics BUI. The news was confirmed this week in a letter from the director of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Great Lakes National Program Office. “Hundreds of people around the state continue working diligently to restore impaired beneficial uses,” said Michigan’s Office of the Great Lakes Director Patty Birkholz. “The removal of these two BUIs represents a milestone in the AOC program’s strategy to delist Michigan’s 14 Great Lakes Areas of Concern.” Restoration of the aesthetics beneficial use verifies that the Kalamazoo River and the River Raisin AOCs are no longer the eyesores they were in the past, according to a press release from the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality. Portions of the two rivers were designated as AOCs in the late 1980s, due to severe environmental degradation primarily resulting from industrial activities. While six other BUIs remain associated with the Kalamazoo River AOC and eight are still connected with the River Raisin AOC, significant progress is being made to address each of them. These efforts are led by local public advisory councils in partnership with the EPA, Michigan’s Office of the Great Lakes, and other federal, state and local partners. Michigan partners will continue working to remove remaining contamination and improve habitat. Future activities planned for these two AOCs include contaminated sediment remediation and several dam removals that will restore a more natural flow regime. The Kalamazoo River AOC begins at Morrow Dam, just upstream from the City of Kalamazoo, and extends approximately 80 river miles to the mouth at Lake Michigan in “millionaire parties” from the Michigan Bureau of State Lottery’s Charitable Gaming Division to the executive director of the Michigan Gaming Control Board. Regulation of other forms of charitable gaming such as bingo and raffles will remain within Lottery. State law allows Lottery to authorize millionaire parties, which consist of various casino-style games such as poker, and are used as fundraisers by nonprofit organizations. However, the proliferation of these games makes it more challenging for the state to make sure they are properly managed and regulated, according to a press release from the governor’s office. For example, the games generated $3.4 million in cash activity in 2003 and the amount has risen steadily each year. In 2011, these games reportedly generated nearly $194 million. Transferring regulatory authority to the Gaming Control Board, which is a quasilaw enforcement regulatory agency, will result in more effective oversight that protects the nonprofit or charity group. “Many of Michigan’s fine nonprofits and charities count on these games to raise revenue,” Snyder said. “This executive order allows them to continue doing so while also making sure they are not being swindled or used as a cover for criminal activity.” The state receives nominal licensing fees for the games but does not share in the profits. Casino-style parties Kalamazoo River has moved at state level cleanup milestone An executive order signed Wednesday by Gov. Rick Snyder transfers regulation of Clarification Last week’s Banner Court News reported Gordon Charles Hess, 62, of Hastings, was sentenced to six months in jail for operating under the influence of liquor, third offense. The Banner has learned that the six months of jail time was suspended upon Hess’ successful completion of 120 days on a secure continuous remote alcohol monitor tether. The unit looks much like the global positioning system tethers for those subject to house arrest. The SCRAM tether works by sampling perspiration and measuring the perspiration for traces of alcohol. Hess must still pay $1,698 in costs and serve 24 months on probation. His driver’s license was revoked and he must pay $175 per month toward costs. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, April 12, 2012 — Page 9 Introducing the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz tisement carried in last week’s issue of The Banner. The Marbles were the first to win the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz which will be continued for 25 more week.s Each week, an aerial photograph of a Barry County farm will be pictured in The Banner. The rules call for the occupant of the farm pictured to identify it as his farm by coming in to The Banner office as soon as possible after the picture appears in the paper. Positive identification will be required and to win the person must live on the farm. Winners receive $1 gift certificates from each of the 35 merchants who have joined The Banner in sponsoring the contest, and also a leather-bound aerial photograph of the farm. It was easy for Marble to identify his farm. Corn shocks lined the right of his driveway which is located east of M-43 where the highway bends north leaving Woodland Avenue. (In 1952, M-43 followed Barber Road out of Hastings. The Marbles’ farm was on East Woodlawn Avenue just beyond where Barber Road now bends north.) The chicken house, home, the equipment shed, dairy house, barn and silo he built stand out to give positive identification of the place he and his wife purchased 12 years ago. The Marbles bought “Valley Hill” from John Skinner, who now lives in Northern Michigan. It is known as the former Fred Andrus farm. The Marbles operate a dairy farm and are now milking 23 Guernseys, several registered animals. They have a young registered herd sire, Prince High, purchased from Leon Dunning at Delton. They have a modern stanchion dairy barn and a spotlessly clean milk house. When the Marbles moved to the farm – he formerly worked for Wisert Bros. hardware and later for G.E. Goodyear who bought the store – there were few modern conveniences. Since then, the large home has been modernized and the new kitchen is one of the type that would make any housewife happy. The home has forced-air heating, a large picture window in the kitchen, many modern conveniences and of course, TV. The Marbles’ place has 80 acres but they work other acreage on shares. Marble was born in Rutland Township, the son of George and Cora Marble, on Aug. 18, 1901, and attended Hastings High School. He and his wife, the former Violet Barcroft, will celebrate their 26th anniversary Feb. 26. They have no children. Both Mr. and Mrs. Marble are active in Farm Bureau and Grange work and enjoy their life on the dairy farm. Barry County near top quarter in annual health rankings LEGAL NOTICE FIRST WINNERS - Mr. and Mrs. Lewis B. Marble, Route 3, Hastings, are pictured in the kitchen of their modern farm house about a mile and a half east of Hastings looking at the aerial photograph of their farm, first of 26 such aerial farm views to be carried in The Banner. Mrs. Chester Keech called the Marbles shortly after 8 a.m. Thursday morning to tell them the exciting news that their farm was the first to win the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz contest which runs each week. Many other friends called to tell them about the picture. Barry farmers should check the arial photograph today – the farm pictured will belong to one and the winner receives 35 gift certificates of $1 each and a leather-farmed aerial picture of the farm from The Banner. –Barth Studio photo The identification of a farming couple pictured in a recent Banner led to the discovery of a small file in the newspaper’s archives. The file, labeled simply “Farmers Ind. 1952” contained clippings from a promotional series called Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz, which was explained just before the contest started 60 years ago (and is reprinted below). The weekly series featured 26 farms, many with names still familiar today. The file contains no aerial photos of the farms, so the copies given to the property owners who were in the contest must have been the only copies of the photos. We do have most of the photographs that ran with the original stories on the winning farmers. The stories tell how the individuals or families acquired their property and what types of farming practices they followed. The 35 businesses that sponsored the contest were listed in the full-page ad, with the unidentified farm in the center. Those sponsoring businesses were Rickert Pharmacy, Scott’s Cement Products Co., Campbell’s Self-Serve Grocery and Market, The Radio Room and Delton Farm Bureau Elevator Co. in Delton; K-B Supply, Farm Bureau Services Inc., B.L. Peck, G.E. Goodyear Hardware; Farmers Market and Seed Store, Goodyear Bros. Hardware, Hastings Lumber and Coal Co., Hildebrandt Oil Co., Lawrence Appliance, Patten Monument, Mom and Bea’s Thornapple Grill, Feldpausch Food Center, Hastings Motor Sales, Farmers Gas and Oil, Young’s Music Shoppe, Mahler Motor Sales, Waldron’s Wallpaper and Paint Store, Perfection Outfitting Co., Hastings Cleaners, Jacobs Pharmacy, Hastings CutRate Shoe Store, Cooley Heating Service, Barry Cleaners, DeMott Welding and Machinery Co. and Peterson Motor Sales in Hastings; and Lamden’s Nashville Pharmacy, Rice’s Stop and Shop, J&H Cleaners, Nicholas Appliance Co., and Christensen’s Furniture in Nashville. The Jan. 10, 1952, Banner article that introduced the contest read as follows: ***** A Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz, which undoubtedly will be as interesting to urban residents as to those in the rural areas, will be inaugurated in The Hastings Banner next week. The Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz will be conducted each week under the sponsorship of 35 Barry County merchants who have joined with The Hastings Banner in promoting interest in Barry County farms. Each week, an aerial photograph of an individual farm in Barry County will be published in a full-page advertisement. The contest calls for the occupant of the farm to identify his farm by coming in to The Banner office as soon as possible after the picture appears in the paper. Positive identification will be required. Not only will aerial photographs of 26 individuals farms be published, but the occupants identifying their farms will receive a leatherbound photograph of their farm and also gift certificates each valued at $1 in merchandise from the 35 participating merchants. The gift certificates must be presented for honoring within 30 days. The Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz is one of the most interesting newspaper promotions used in rural areas. The sharp, aerial pictures of the farms which were taken about a month ago, will make an interesting study for everyone. Lucky farmers will be urged all through the 26 weeks of the contest to identify their farms and report in person to The Banner by the Monday afternoon following publication of the picture so that certification of the identification can be made. Information on the farm will be carried in the following week’s issue of The Banner. The Banner and the sponsoring merchants believe everyone will enjoy the contest – and that it will prove exceedingly valuable to the lucky farmers. ***** Phone jangles happily for first ‘Photo Quiz’ winners The phone rang so often Thursday morning that Mrs. Lewis B. Marble, Route 3, Hastings, had her work schedule disrupted but both she and her husband were thrilled to see their farm pictured in the full page adver- SYNOPSIS HOPE TOWNSHIP Regular Board Meeting & Budget Public Hearing March 26, 2012 All Board members present. 2 guests. Public Hearing for 2012-13 Budget opened at 6:35 pm. Closed at 6:37 pm. Regular meeting opened at 6:38 pm Approved: Agenda Previous Minutes Standing Reports Bills Resolutions 2012-2, 2012-3, 2012-4, 2012-5, 2012-6. Mercy Ambulance Service Agreement Long Lake Cloverdale Association Fireworks Permit Fire Dept Budget Newsletter Printing & Publishing Library Grant Appointed Bob Norton and Bob Tyner to Zoning Board of Appeals Adjourned 7:40 p.m. Submitted by: Deborah Jackson, Clerk 06778452 Attested to by: Patricia Albert, Supervisor According to the third annual county health rankings released April 3 by the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, Michigan continues to struggle with obesity and infant mortality, while improving upon other health factors. Barry County was ranked 21st out of Michigan’s 83 counties. While the numbers are not staggering, there continues to be a steady increase in the rates of adult obesity and physical inactivity in Michigan. Barry County is 36 percent obese with a state rate of 32 percent. Michigan inactivity is rated at 25 percent, with Barry County at 27 percent. Further, babies continue to have low birth weights. Barry County is 7 percent, with Michigan at just over 8 percent. “The annual county health rankings are a call to action for communities to work together to develop policies and programs that help people lead healthier lives,” said Olga Dazzo, director of the Michigan Department of Community Health. “The rankings underscore the need for Michigan residents to continue to collectively address serious health concerns such as obesity in Michiganders and the rise of our infant mortality rate.” The survey ranks the overall health of nearly every county in all 50 states, using a standard way to measure how healthy people are and how long they live. This year’s Rankings include several new measures, such as how many fast LEGAL NOTICE SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by LONNIE L. WRATE and EVELYN D. WRATE, HUSBAND AND WIFE, to MAINSTREET SAVINGS BANK, FSB, Mortgagee, dated November 2, 2009, and recorded on November 4, 2009, in Document No. 200911040010803, and assigned by said mortgagee to MICHIGAN STATE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Four Thousand Four Hundred Sixty-One Dollars and Fifty-Six Cents ($84,461.56), including interest at 6.625% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on May 10, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: BEGINNING AT THE NORTH 1 / 4 POST OF SECTION 2, TOWN 3 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, RUTLAND TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN; THENCE EAST 402.47 FEET ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SAID SECTION 2; THENCE SOUTH 00 DEGREES 14 MINUTES 01 SECONDS EAST 290.00 FEET; THENCE WEST 401.94 FEET; THENCE NORTH 00 DEGREES 20 MINUTES 20 SECONDS WEST 290.00 FEET ALONG THE NORTH AND SOUTH 1 / 4 LINE OF SAID SECTION 2 TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. MICHIGAN STATE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 USBW.001427 (0406778600 12)(05-03) Prairieville Township Parks & Recreation is looking to hire seasonal Parks Attendants for the summer of 2012. Persons interested in this position should be available from Memorial Day through Labor Day.Parks Attendants are expected to work non-traditional hours including weekends and holidays. Must be 18 or older and be able to pass a criminal/driving record check. Employment applications may also be downloaded on our website at www.prairievilletwp-mi.org/ and click on Parks and Rec or picked up in person Monday thru Thursday - 9am-5pm at: Prairieville Township 10115 S Norris Rd. Delton, MI 49046 Applications must be received by April 19th 2012. 06778310 food restaurants are in a county and levels of physical inactivity among residents. Among the many health factors that researchers look at include rates of adult smoking, adult obesity, excessive drinking among adults, and teenage births; the number of uninsured adults, availability of primary care physicians, and preventable hospital stays; rates of high school graduation, adults who have attended some college, children in poverty; community safety; limited access to healthy foods; rates of physical inactivity; and air pollution levels. “The county health rankings show us that much of what influences our health happens outside of the doctor’s office. In fact, where we live, learn, work and play has a big role in determining how healthy we are and how long we live,” said Dr. Risa Lavizzo-Mourey, president and CEO of RWJF. “The good news is that businesses, health care providers, government, consumers and community leaders are already joining forces in communities across the nation to change some of the gaps which the rankings highlight.” For more information on the county health ratings, go to www.countyhealthratings.org or call the Barry Eaton District Health Department at 269-945-9516. LEGAL NOTICE FORECLOSURE NOTICE RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES, P.C. MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. Mortgage Sale - Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by Robin M. Fletcher and James J. Fletcher, Jr. Wife and Husband to United States of America acting through the United States Department of Agriculture, herein called the Government, Mortgagee, dated April 15, 1996, and recorded on April 17, 1996, in Liber 657, Page 291, Barry County Records, , on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Eight Thousand Four Hundred Fifty-One and 59/100 ($78,451.59) including interest at the rate of 6.75000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the Circuit Court in said Barry County, where the premises to be sold or some part of them are situated, at 01:00 PM on May 10, 2012 Said premises are situated in the Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land in the Southwest quarter of Section 2, Town 1 North, Range 10 West, beginning at a point which lies 878 feet due East and North 33 degrees 05 minutes East 462.80 feet from Southwest corner of said Section 2, thence North 56 degrees 55 minutes West 156 feet, thence North 33 degrees 5 minutes East 227.87 feet, thence due East 186.19 feet, thence South 33 degrees 5 minutes West 330 feet to point of beginning; except the Southeasterly 33 feet for road. Commonly known as: 10944 S Norris Road If the property is eventually sold at foreclosure sale, the redemption period will be 6.00 months from the date of sale unless the property is abandoned or used for agricultural purposes. If the property is determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 and/or 600.3241a, the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of sale, or 15 days after statutory notice, whichever is later. If the property is presumed to be used for agricultural purposes prior to the date of the foreclosure sale pursuant to MCL 600.3240, the redemption period is 1 year. Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages are, if any, limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: April 12, 2012 Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for United States of America acting through the United States Department of Agriculture, herein called the Government 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302, (248) 335-9200 Case 06778605 No. 12MI00596-1 (04-12)(05-03) NOTICE The minutes of the meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners held April 10, 2012, are available in the County Clerk’s Office at 220 W. State St., Hastings, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or www.barrycounty.org. 77567074 City of Hastings REQUEST FOR BIDS Sale of Oak and Walnut Logs CITY OF HASTINGS REQUEST FOR BIDS 2012 SEALCOATING AND HAND PATCHING The City of Hastings is accepting bids for its 2012 street sealcoating and hand patching program. Complete specifications are available at City Hall at 201 E State St, Hastings, MI 49058 Bids will be received at the Office of the City Clerk/Treasurer at the above address until 9:00 AM on Tuesday, May 1, 2012 at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. The City reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularity in any bid, and to award the bid in a manner it believes to be in its own interest, price and other factors considered. Contractors will be required to provide proof of insurance in the amounts included in the bid package. All bids must be clearly marked on the outside of the submittal package “Sealed Bid - 2012 Sealcoating and Hand Patching Project.” Tim Girrbach Director of Public Services 06778236 The City of Hastings will accept bids for the sale of one 18 foot oak log and one 16 foot walnut log. Both logs are about two feet in diameter and relatively straight. Arrangements to view these logs can be made by calling 945-2468 weekdays between the hours of 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM. The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in any bid, and to award the bid in a manner that the City deems to be in its best interest, price and other factors considered. Bids will be received at the office of the City Clerk/Treasurer, 201 East State Street, Hastings, MI 49058 until 9:15 AM on Tuesday, May 1, 2012 at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. The winning bid, if any, will be approved at the City Council meeting on May 14, 2012. Winning bidder must be prepared to take possession with certified funds between May 15 and May 18, 2012. No formal bidding forms or documents are required, but all bids must be in writing and sealed. All sealed bids must be clearly marked on the outside of the bid package as follows: ‘SEALED BID - Oak and Walnut logs.” Thomas E. Emery City Clerk/Treasurer 06778489 �Page 10 — Thursday, April 12, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICE The annual report of the Paulsen Trust for the year 2011 is available for inspection at its principal office during regular business hours by any citizen requesting within the 180 days of this notice. Nelson R. Allen, Trustee 521 Curvebrook SE 77569156 Kentwood, MI 49548 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT BARRY COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT - FAMILY DIVISION ORDER FOR SERVICE BY PUBLICATION AND NOTICE OF ACTION FILE NO. 11-3106-AN Court Address: 206 West Court, Suite 302, Hastings, MI 49058; (269) 945-1390 IN THE MATTER OF: BABY BOY CARROLL TO: BRUCE TOBIAS A Petition to identify you as the father and terminate your parental rights has been filed. You must file you answer or take other action permitted by law in this court at the court address above on or before April 30, 2012 or appear in person on the 1st day of May at 2:00 in the afternoon. If you fail to do so, a default judgment may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint filed in this case. Dated: 4-5-12 77567154 Honorable William M. Doherty P41960 SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by GLEN L. GUERNSEY AKA GLEN L. GUERNSEY JR. and LISA GUERNSEY, HUSBAND AND WIFE, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns,, Mortgagee, dated October 31, 2003, and recorded on May 13, 2004, in Document No. 1127564, and assigned by said mortgagee to GMAC MORTGAGE, LLC SBM TO GMAC MORTGAGE CORPORATION, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty Thousand Eight Hundred Thirty-One Dollars and Twenty-Five Cents ($160,831.25), including interest at 5.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on May 3, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: THE WEST 328.3 FEET OF THE WEST 1 / 2 OF THE NORTH 60 ACRES OF THE NORTHEAST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 23, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 7 WEST. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. GMAC MORTGAGE, LLC SBM TO GMAC MORTGAGE CORPORATION Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 77567035 GMAC.007473 (04-05)(04-26) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Barry Joe Roscoe and Christine Ann Roscoe husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 4, 2007, and recorded on April 23, 2007 in instrument 1179609, and modified by Affidavit or Order recorded on March 13, 2012 in instrument 201203130002590, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Wells Fargo Bank, NA as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty Thousand Six Hundred Thirty-Seven and 49/100 Dollars ($120,637.49), including interest at 6.75% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on April 26, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Maple Grove, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Southeast Corner of Section 6, Town 2 North, Range 7 West, Thence North 00 degrees 19 minutes 12 seconds East 1081.83 feet to point of beginning; thence North 88 degrees 56 minutes 30 seconds West 165 feet; thence South 00 degrees 19 minutes 12 seconds West 148.5 feet; thence North 88 degrees 56 minutes 30 seconds West 80 feet; thence North 00 degrees 19 minutes 12 seconds East 396 feet; thence South 88 degrees 56 minutes 30 seconds East 245 feet; thence South 00 degrees 19 minutes 12 seconds West 247.50 feet to point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 29, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #367381F07 77566619 (03-29)(04-19) STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-26090-DE Estate of GERALD BESTROM. Date of Birth: February 27, 1937. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, GERALD BESTROM, died April 3, 2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to IVAN C. BESTROM, DANIEL BESTROM, PATRICIA A. WENTZEL, named personal representative, or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 WEST COURT, SUITE 302, HASTINGS, MI 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: April 10, 2012 DAVID H. TRIPP P29290 206 SOUTH BROADWAY HASTINGS, MI 49058 (269) 945-9585 Ivan C. Bestrom 9815 Country Oaks Dr., Ft. Myers, FL 33967 Daniel Bestrom 302 Olympia Ct., Ft. Walton Beach, FL 32547 Patricia A. Wentzel 1481 Alhambra Dr., Ft. Myers, FL 32901 FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: David A McCausey and Wendi L McCausey, husband and wife to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc as nominee for Flagstar Bank, FSB its successors and assigns , Mortgagee, dated August 4, 2006 and recorded August 11, 2006 in Instrument # 1168493 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: Flagstar Bank, FSB, by assignment dated February 28, 2012 and recorded March 7, 2012 in Instrument # 201203070002351 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ten Thousand Six Hundred Twenty-Two Dollars and Fifty-Six Cents ($110,622.56) including interest 7.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on April 19, 2012 Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The West 48 Feet of Lot 961 of the City, Formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded Plat thereof Commonly known as 126 W Walnut St, Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 3/22/2012 Flagstar Bank, FSB, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-57716 (0322)(04-12) 77566611 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Gregory M. Gillson and Cheryl L. Gillson, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated October 24, 2001, and recorded on November 1, 2001 in instrument 1069072, in Barry county records, Michigan, and assigned by said Mortgagee to M&T Bank as assignee, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Seven Thousand Four Hundred Five and 06/100 Dollars ($97,405.06), including interest at 7.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on April 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 16, Old Farm Village, according to the recorded Plat thereof in Liber 6 of Plats, on Page 22 Barry County Records The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 22, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #395848F01 77566596 (03-22)(04-12) Synopsis ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING April 3, 2012 Meeting called to order at 7:00. All board members present with the exception of Treasurer Ritchie. Approved minutes from the March 5 and 12, 2012 budget workshop, the March 28, 2012 budget hearing and the March 6, 2012 regular board meeting. Treasurer’s report received and put on file. Fire report read and put on file. County Commissioner’s report read. Library report received. Parks and Recreation report received. Approved transfer of $20,000 from general fund into fire department capital improvement fund. Approved reimbursement to cover Trustee Ribble’s expenses for deposition regarding recycling. Approved paying of the bills. Approved motion to adjourn. Respectfully submitted, Jennifer Goy-Clerk 77567080 Attested to by Thomas Rook-Supervisor Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Ryan G. Markley and Nicole L. Markley, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, Mortgagee, dated October 28, 2008, and recorded on October 30, 2008 in instrument 20081030-0010608, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixteen Thousand Seven Hundred ThirtySix and 91/100 Dollars ($116,736.91). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 3, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 11, Block 49, Village of Middleville, according to the recorded plat thereof in Liber 1 of Plats, on Plage 27. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #393068F01 775666897 (04-05)(04-26) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Janine Jordan, an unmarried woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 15, 2008, and recorded on May 15, 2008 in instrument 20080515-0005227, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Six Thousand Seven Hundred Eleven and 76/100 Dollars ($106,711.76). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 3, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Maple Grove, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Being known and designated as the Southwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 18, Town 2 North, Range 7 West, Maple Grove Township, Barry County, Michigan and Less and except all that parcel of land conveyed to Willian C. Vance and Susan K. Vance as more fully described in Doc No. 1169612 containing the West 330 feet of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 18, Town 2 North, Range 7 West The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #397760F01 77566741 (04-05)(04-26) STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF BARRY PUBLICATION NOTICE TO CREDITORS DECEDENT’S TRUST ESTATE Decedent: Josephine A. Tomczyk a/k/a Josephine Amelia Tomczyk. Date of birth: 01/27/1923. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Josephine A. Tomczyk a/k/a Josephine Amelia Tomczyk, who lived at 7500 N. Crooked Lake Drive, Delton, Michigan died February 25, 2012. There is no probate estate. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the Tomczyk Family Trust, dated September 10, 1997, as amended, will be forever barred unless presented to: Marsha A. Bassett, the named Successor Trustee within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: March 20, 2012 Miller, Canfield, Paddock and Stone John G. VanSlambrouck P32968 277 South Rose Street-Suite 5000 Kalamazoo, MI 49007 269-383-5829 Marsha A. Bassett 7500 N. Crooked Lake Drive Delton, MI 49046 77567151 (269) 623-3545 FORECLOSURE NOTICE (ALL COUNTIES) AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTIFY (248) 362-6100 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by Janice F Kramer, a single woman of Barry County, Michigan, Mortgagor to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. dated the 10th day of July, 2008, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, for the County of Barry and State of Michigan, on the 18th day of July, 2008, in Instrument No. 20080718-0007344 of Barry Records, which said mortgage was assigned to The Huntington National Bank, thru mesne assignments, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, for principal of $168,137.47 (one hundred sixty-eight thousand one hundred thirty-seven and 47/100) plus accrued interest at 6.875% (six point eight seven five) percent per annum. And no suit proceedings at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to the statue of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on, the 26th day of April, 2012, at 1:00:00 PM said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI, Barry County, Michigan, of the premises described in said mortgage. Which said premises are described as follows: All that certain piece or parcel of land situate in the Township of Barry, in the County of Barry and State of Michigan and described as follows to wit: Situated in the Township of Barry, County of Barry and State of Michigan: Lot 11 of Poplar Beach, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 14, Barry Township, Barry County, Michigan. Commonly known as: 6894 Shoreline Drive, fka 6802 South Shore Drive Tax Parcel No.: 03-105008-00 The redemption period shall be six months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: March 29, 2012 By: Foreclosing Attorneys Attorney for Plaintiff Weltman, Weinberg & Reis Co., L.P.A. 2155 Butterfield Drive, Suite 200-S Troy, MI 48084 WWR# 10089762 (03-29)(04-19) 77566733 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Deborah L Larson, A Single Woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated March 7, 2011, and recorded on March 10, 2011 in instrument 201103100002310, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Everbank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Four Thousand Two Hundred Forty-Six and 20/100 Dollars ($124,246.20). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 10, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 8 and 9 of Bristol Oaks, according to the Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 4 of Plats, on Page 66. Together with a perpetual easement in common with others for driveway purposes, across and upon those private drives as now located and used that provide access to this property from a public highway as set forth in deeds recorded in Liber 291, on Page 397 and Liber 353, on Page 316. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #398293F01 06778314 (04-12)(05-03) STATE OF MICHIGAN JUDICIAL DISTRICT JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY PROBATE ORDER FOR SERVICE BY PUBLICATION/POSTING AND NOTICE OF ACTION CASE NO. 1245-DM Plaintiff Kayla Lambert 4440 S. M-37 Hwy., Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 948-5522 v Defendant Justin D. Lambert TO: Justin D. Lambert IT IS ORDERED: You are being sued in this court by the plaintiff in the Divorce Matter of Kayla Lambert v. Justin Lambert File #12-45-DM. You must file your answer or take other action permitted by law in this court at the court address above on or before 28 days after last posting. If you fail to do so, a default judgement may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint filed in this case. A copy of this order shall be published once each week in the Hastings Banner for three consecutive weeks, and proof of publication shall be filed in this court. A copy of this order shall be sent to Justin Lambert at the last-known address by registered mail, return receipt requested, before the date of the last publication, and the affidavit of mailing shall be filed with this court. Date: 3/7/12 77566675 Judge Amy L. McDowell NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF A MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on January 10, 2007, by Kent R. Laubaugh, a single man, as Mortgagor, given by him to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on January 18, 2007, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 1175215, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank by assignment dated November 9, 2010, recorded on November 18, 2010, in Instrument Number 201011180010850, Barry County Records, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of Twenty-Five Thousand Seven Hundred Eighty-Four and 96/100 Dollars ($25,784.96); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, May 17, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF RUTLAND, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: The NW quarter of the NE quarter of the SW quarter of Section 16, T3N, R9W, Rutland Township, Barry County, Michigan. Commonly known as: 567 S. Irving Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058 Tax parcel number: 0813-016-014-10. The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: April 4, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 77567083 48933 (517) 371-8253 (04-12)(05-03) NOTICE OF JUDICIAL FORECLOSURE SALE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE IF YOU ARE A BORROWER ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTENTION PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the circuit court at the request of the plaintiff. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest, as determined by the court. (Barry) County Circuit Court Case No. 10193-CH NOTICE OF JUDICIAL SALE JUDICIAL SALE IN PURSUANCE and by virtue of a Stipulated Order Validating Mortgage and for Judgment of Foreclosure in the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on the 1st day of October, 2010, in a certain cause therein pending, wherein Stephanie Stolsonburg was the Plaintiff/Counter-Defendant and Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Soundview Home Loan Trust 2006-1 Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2006-1 was the Defendant/Counter-Plaintiff. The aforementioned judgment established a debt owing to plaintiff in the amount of $143,133.77 plus post-judgment interest at an annual rate of 8% and other amounts recoverable pursuant to said judgment. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that in order to satisfy said judgment, in whole or in part, the property described below shall be sold at public auction, by an authorized sheriff or deputy sheriff, to the highest bidder, at the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, located at 220 W. State Street, Hastings, MI 49058, (that being the building in which the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held) on the 31st of May 2012 at 1 pm, local time. On said day at said time, the following described property shall be sold: City/Twp. of Yankee Springs, County of Barry, State of Michigan, Lot 24, the Westerly 1/2 of Lot 25 and the South 10 feet of Lot 31, adjacent to said Lot 24 of Streeter's Resort, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats on Page 37, also the South 10 feet of Lot 31, adjacent to the Westerly 1/2 of Lot 25 of said Streeter's Resort. Also an undivided 1/4 interest in Lot 29 of Streeter's Resort, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats on Page 37. Tax Parcel ID: 16-215-020-00 Commonly known as 11486 Lighthouse Ct., Middleville, MI 49333-8451 REDEMPTION PERIOD IS SIX MONTHS. Mark Sheldon, Barry County Deputy Sheriff For more information please call 248-642-2515. Trott & Trott, P.C. By: Rana Razzaque (P67627) Attorneys for Plaintiff 31440 Northwestern Hwy., Ste. 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 T&T# 250978L02 (0406778491 12)(05-24) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, April 12, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Bruce A Irwin and Sandra L Irwin, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated May 4, 2007, and recorded on May 8, 2007 in instrument 1180284, and assigned by said Mortgagee to PHH Mortgage Corporation as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Five Thousand One Hundred Thirty-Seven and 24/100 Dollars ($75,137.24). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 10, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: PARCEL L-3: Commencing at the southeast corner of Section 33, town 2 North, Range 9 West; Running thence North 89 degrees 47 minutes 45 seconds West 1410.00 feet along the South line of Section 33; thence North 00 degrees 00 minutes 05 seconds East 664.00 feet parallel with the East line of the Southeast 1/4 of said Section 33, and along the West line of a 66 foot private Easement for ingress and egress and utilities in common with others for the True Place of beginning of this description; thence continuing North 00 degrees 00 minutes 05 seconds East 332.00 feet; thence South 89 degrees 32 minutes 04 seconds East 320.01 feet; thence South 00 Degrees 00 minutes 05 seconds West 331.51 feet; thence North 89 degrees 37 minutes 20 seconds West 320.01 feet to the Place of beginning. Together with rights in said easement and subject to extension thereof over the west 66 feet of the above described parcel. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #396800F01 77567065 (04-12)(05-03) Case No. 11-466-CH Notice of Judicial Foreclosure Sale on a Default Judgment and Judgment of Foreclosure Against Defendants Teresa J. Lindsey, f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker and Shana Ciampa NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to the terms of a Default Judgment and Judgment of Foreclosure of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan signed and filed on January 17, 2012, in the case of Eaton Federal Savings Bank, Plaintiff v Teresa J. Lindsey, f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker and Shana Ciampa, Defendants, Case No. 11-466-CH, wherein, among other things, the Court allowed the foreclosure of a mortgage granted by Teresa J. Lindsey f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker (Mortgagor) to Eaton Federal Savings Bank on September 27, 2007 and recorded October 4, 2007 at Instrument No. 200710040002745, pages 1 through 10, Barry County Records, against the Mortgagor. Pursuant to the Default Judgment and Judgment for Foreclosure, the mortgaged premises shall be sold at a public auction by or under the direction of Clerk or Sheriff for the County of Barry to the highest bidder at the main entrance to the Barry County Courthouse, 220 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 on Thursday, May 17, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., local time. The following described “Mortgaged Premises”: Parcel 1: Lot 13 of Standley’s First Addition to Fine Lake Park, Johnstown Township, Barry County, Michigan, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, on Page 31, Also, beginning at the Southeast corner of Lot 13 of Standley’s First Addition to Fine Lake Park, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, on Page 31; thence North 26 degrees East along the Easterly line of Lots 13 and 14 of said Plat, 100.00 feet, thence South 82 degrees 54 minutes East 50.00 feet; thence South 26 degrees West, 100.00 feet; thence North 82 degrees 54 minutes West 50.00 feet to the point of beginning. Parcel 2: Beginning at the Southwest corner of Lot 8 of Fine Lake Park, Johnstown Township, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof; thence Northeasterly along the East Shore of Fine Lake to a point 10 feet from said place of beginning; thence Easterly to a point on the Easterly line of said Lot which is 3 feet North of the Southeast corner of said Lot; thence Southerly along the East line of said Lot to the Southeast corner thereof; thence Westerly along the South line of said Lot to the place of beginning. The Mortgaged Premises, whose address is 823 East Shore Drive, Battle Creek, Michigan, 49017, also include all right, title and interests held by Teresa J. Lindsey f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker as of September 27, 2007, in the Mortgaged Premises. The Premises may be redeemed during the six (6) months following the date of sale. BODMAN PLC By: Sandra L. Jasinski (P37430) Attorneys for Eaton Federal Savings Bank 229 Court Street, P.O. Box 405 Cheboygan, Michigan 49721 (231) 627-8000 Date: March 29, 2012 Dates of publication: March 29, April 5, 12, 19, 26, 77566696 May 3, and 10, 2012. Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Steven Vanduine and Susan Vanduine, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated March 3, 2004, and recorded on March 11, 2004 in instrument 1123505, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Nineteen Thousand Five Hundred ThirtySix and 47/100 Dollars ($119,536.47). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 10, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Beginning at A Point found By Starting at the Northeast corner of Section 14, Town 2 North, Range 10 West; thence along the section line North 88 degrees West, 849.68 feet to a point on the South line of Parker Park; thence South 2 degrees West, 20 feet; thence South 00 degrees 21 minutes West, 123.33 feet; thence South 28 degrees 55 minutes West, 80 feet to the Point of Beginning of this description; thence continuing South 28 degrees 55 minutes West, 50 feet; thence North 57 degrees 58 1/2 minutes West to Stewart Lake; thence Northeasterly along said Lake 50 feet, more or less, to a Point which is North 58 degrees West from said Point of Beginning; thence South 58 degrees East to said Point of Beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #380005F03 06778319 (04-12)(05-03) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Shane A. Rugg, an unmarried man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for AmeriFirst Financial Corporation, its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated January 29, 2010, and recorded on February 4, 2010 in instrument 201002040001028, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ninety-Three Thousand Fifty-Eight and 03/100 Dollars ($193,058.03). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 10, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Assyria, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The Northwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 and the West 1/2 of the East 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 12, Town 1 North, Range 7 West. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #374743F03 77567059 (04-12)(05-03) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Curt G. Griffis AKA Curtis G. Griffis II and Tonya A. Griffis Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to National City Mortgage a division of National City Bank of Indiana, Mortgagee, dated December 30, 2005, and recorded on January 4, 2006 in instrument 1158517, and assigned by said Mortgagee to National City Mortgage Company as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eighty-Six Thousand Two Hundred Ninety-One and 34/100 Dollars ($186,291.34). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 3, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Unit No. 16, Whispering Pines Estates Condominium according to the Master Deed Recorded in Liber 1023989, as amended, and designated as Barry County Condominium Subdivision Plan No. 12, together with rights in the general common elements and the limited common elements as shown on the Master Deed and as described in Act 59 of the Public Acts of 1978, as amended. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #348835F02 77566791 (04-05)(04-26) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Anthony J. Wolfe, a single man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Polaris Home Funding Corp. its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated October 30, 2006, and recorded on November 8, 2006 in instrument 1172545, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eight Thousand Three Hundred Nine and 45/100 Dollars ($108,309.45). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on April 26, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at a point 115 rods North of the Southwest corner of Sectioin 21; Town 3 North; Range 8 West, for a place of beginning; thence North 66 feet; thence East 250 feet; thence South 66 feet; thence West 250 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 29, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #379843F01 77566641 (03-29)(04-19) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Tracie Farrah and Jamie Farrah, Wife and Husband, to Bayrock Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated August 31, 2005 and recorded September 8, 2005 in Instrument Number 1152444, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, successor in interest to Bank of America, National Association as successor by merger to LaSalle Bank National Association, as Trustee for Certificateholders of Bear Stearns Asset Backed Securities I LLC, Asset Backed-Certificates, Series 2005-HE12 by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Thousand Two Hundred Sixty-One and 72/100 Dollars ($200,261.72) including interest at 8.425% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on MAY 3, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The East 1385 feet of the North one-half of the South one-half of the Northwest one-quarter of Section 29, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, Hope Township, Barry County, Michigan, except the North 440 feet thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: April 5, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 199.3674 775669190 (04-05)(04-26) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Richard A. Hansma, a married man and Laurie J. KozaHansma, his wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns., Mortgagee, dated September 8, 2004 and recorded September 14, 2004 in Instrument Number 1133890, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Bank of America, N.A., as successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. FKA Countrywide Home Loans Servicing L.P by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Five Thousand Four Hundred Eighty-Five and 86/100 Dollars ($95,485.86) including interest at 6.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on APRIL 19, 2012. Said premises are located in the Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel located in the Township of Thornapple and Village of Middleville, County of Barry, State of Michigan, to wit: Lot 31 of Middleville Downs Addition Number 2 to the Village of Middleville, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 13, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: March 22, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 617.9829 77566601 (03-22)(04-12) AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTIFY US AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by Randall M Royalty , A Single Person, Mortgagors, to Bank of America, N.A., , Mortgagee, dated the 25th day of March, 2009 and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, for The County of Barry and State of Michigan, on the 6th day of April, 2009 in Doc# 20090406-0003820 of Barry County Records, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, the sum of Two Hundred Twenty Eight Thousand Six Hundred Four and 48/100 ($228,604.48), and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on the 19th day of April, 2012 at 1:00 o’clock pm Local Time, said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI (that being the building where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held), of the premises described in said mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due, as aforesaid on said mortgage, with interest thereon at 4.875% per annum and all legal costs, charges, and expenses, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sum or sums which may be paid by the undersigned, necessary to protect its interest in the premises. Which said premises are described as follows: All that certain piece or parcel of land, including any and all structures, and homes, manufactured or otherwise, located thereon, situated in the City of Delton, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and described as follows, to wit: Commencing at the West 1/4 Post of Section 12, T1N; R9W, thence North along the West line of said Section 1389 feet thence East 156 feet to center of Road for true point of beginning, thence N parallel with section line to shore of Fair Lake thence West along Lake shore to a point 50 feet East of West Section line; thence South parallel to said line to center of road; thence Southeasterly along center of road to point of beginning. Excepting and reserving the Southerly 33 feet to be used in common with other adjacent property owners for roadway purposes only. Intended to describe the East 106 feet of the West 156 feet of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 12 lying South of Fair Lake and Northerly of centerline of existing road. During the six (6) months immediately following the sale, the property may be redeemed, except that in the event that the property is determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241a, the property may be redeemed during 30 days immediately following the sale. Pursuant to MCLA 600.3278, the mortgagor(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 3/22/2012 Bank of America, N.A., as successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP, 7105 Corporate Dr., Mail Stop PTX-C35, Plano, TX 75024 Mortgagee FABRIZIO & BROOK, P.C. Attorney for Bank of America, N.A., as successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP, 7105 Corporate Dr., Mail Stop PTX-C35, Plano, TX 75024 888 W. Big Beaver, Suite 800 Troy, Ml 48084 248-362-2600 77566544 BOA FNMA Royalty (03-22)(04-12) FORECLOSURE NOTICE RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES, P.C. MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. Mortgage Sale - Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by PATRICK W ELLIOTT AND MARY A ELLIOTT, HUSBAND AND WIFE to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. acting solely as a nominee for First Franklin Financial Corp., An Op. Sub. of MLB&T Co., FSB, Mortgagee, dated May 18, 2007, and recorded on June 25, 2007, as Document Number: 1182161, Barry County Records, said mortgage was assigned to U.S. BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE TO BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., AS SUCCESSOR TO LASALLE BANK, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR THE MERRILL LYNCH FIRST FRANKLIN MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST, MORTGAGE LOAN ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-4 by an Assignment of Mortgage dated December 01, 2007 and recorded January 14, 2008 by Document Number: 20080114-0000394, , on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Six Thousand Eight Hundred Fourteen and 02/100 ($66,814.02) including interest at the rate of 6.05000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the Circuit Court in said Barry County, where the premises to be sold or some part of them are situated, at 01:00 PM on April 19, 2012 Said premises are situated in the Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 4 and the West half of Lot 5 of BARRETT ACRES Plat, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 4 of Plats on page 30, Barry County Records. Also, beginning at the Northwest corner of said Lot 4 of the recorded Plat of BARRETT ACRES; thence South 89 degrees 18 minutes East on the North line of Lot 4, 100 feet; thence North 134 feet; thence North 89 degrees 18 minutes West 100 feet; thence South 134 feet to the place of beginning. Being part of the Northwest quarter of Section 5, Town 1 North, Range 9 West. Commonly known as: 239 ORCHARD ST If the property is eventually sold at foreclosure sale, the redemption period will be 6.00 months from the date of sale unless the property is abandoned or used for agricultural purposes. If the property is determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 and/or 600.3241a, the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of sale, or 15 days after statutory notice, whichever is later. If the property is presumed to be used for agricultural purposes prior to the date of the foreclosure sale pursuant to MCL 600.3240, the redemption period is 1 year. Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages are, if any, limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: March 22, 2012 Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for U.S. BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE TO BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., AS SUCCESSOR TO LASALLE BANK, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR THE MERRILL LYNCH FIRST FRANKLIN MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST, MORTGAGE LOAN ASSETBACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-4 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills,MI 48302,(248)335-9200 Case No. 12MI00471-1 (0377566606 22)(04-12) �Page 12 — Thursday, April 12, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Hastings woman dies in accident near Nashville Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 Business Services For Sale Estate Sale BASEMENT WATERPROOFING: PROFESSIONAL BASEMENT SERVICES waterproofing, crack repair, mold remediation. Local/licensed. Free estimates. (517)290-5556. AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. BOOKKEEPING SERVICES Personal * Self-Employed * Small Business Payroll * Billing Accounts Receivable * Accounts Payable General Ledger Weekly * Monthly * Quarterly * Annually Call today! (269)420-5714 RESUME SERVICE: contact Linda Groves. directionsofgrr.com Help Wanted 25 DRIVER TRAINEES Needed NOW! Become a driver for Werner Enterprises! Earn $750 per week! No experience needed! Local CDL Training! Job ready in 15 days! 1-877-649-2697. Community Notices HUNGRY?? PANCAKE BREAKFAST Saturday, April 14th., 8am-10am. Seasonal Grille, 150 W. State St., Hastings. All proceeds will help with the after graduation party to make this a very memorable night! This event is put on by the Parents of Hastings High School Senior Party. Come help support the Class of 2012 Recreation $17 FOR 18 HOLES WITH CART & RANGE BALLS at Hastings Country Club ($39 Value). Expires June 1, 2012 May purchase on line only until 4/13/12 at chippedn.com WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are interested in leasing acreage for this years deer season. Call (269)795-3049 DO YOU WANT QUALITY PRINTING at affordable prices? Call J-Ad Graphics at (269)945-9554. ELIMINATE HIGH HEATING BILLS- Reduce your carbon footprint. Central Boiler Classic Outdoor Wood Furnace. Buy NOW & save up to $1,145! Call SOS your “Stocking Dealer” Dutton, MI 616-554-8669 or 616915-5061. National Ads THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is deceptive, fraudulent or might otherwise violate law or accepted standards of taste. However, this publication does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the quality of goods or services advertised. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made in any advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you ask for money in advance of delivery of goods or services advertised. For Rent LARGE ROOM: Private entrance, kitchen, bathroom, bedroom 243 sq.ft. Separate bath. Scenic woods, quiet, $495. Laundry, internet negotiable. Female. 3 miles to Hastings. (269)908-6625 Garage Sale BOY’S NAME BRAND clothes & jeans- (26,27,28 waist), snowboard, binding, boots,. men’s hunting clothes, mini gas powered crotch rocket, etc. 703 E. Lincoln Street (by Northeastern). April 12th-13th, 19th20th & 22nd. 10am-5pm. Automotive RICK TAYLOR’S DETAIL WORKS. Hours 8am-5pm, Monday-Saturday. Trust a professional with 44 years experience. (269)948-0958. In Memoriam MARJORIE OSTROTH 6-29-1910 - 4-13-2008 Your light still shines in the hearts of those who love you. PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Highway north of Hastings city limits WONDERFUL WYOMING ESTATE SALE: Thursday, April 19th, 9am-6pm; Friday, April 20th, 9am-5pm; Saturday, April 21st, 9am-1pm. Numbers at 7:45am Thursday. Garage opens at 8am on Thursday. 3942 Wedgewood, SW, Wyoming, MI. This is a wonderful, quality sale full of beautiful items for your home and yard and for an added bonus there is a complete 15x30 room full of fabric for quilting and other sewing and needlework crafts as well. Thomasville wall units, antique trunk, sleeper sofa and matching love seat, antique Mission style rocker, antique youth chair, laps, end and coffee tables, wicker bench and antique frames. 100’s of pieces of antique floral china, glass of all kinds, Japanese Luster Ware, blue and brown transfer ware, sets of china and dishes, large salt and pepper collection, stemware, Gorham “Founders of Grand Rapids” plate series and lots of fireplace accessories. Silver plate cream and sugar collection along with other silver plate. Copper cookware, cook and bake ware, McCoy Canyon dishes, nice corner bakers shelf and lots of forged wrought iron pieces all from the blacksmith shop on Mackinac Island. Antique 1890’s “S” series rolltop desk from Indianapolis Cabinet Co. antique cast iron desk accessories, stained glass and leaded glass windows, tons of office and art supplies. HP 6100 series office jet printer, cameras, cookbooks and nice collection of hand thrown pottery. Bed and table linens and small chest of drawers. Twin mattress, custom 71/2’ wood bench. Lots of vintage and antique linens. Antique quilts, crazy quilts and quilt tops, antique iron bed, mirror and 1890’s wedding dress. Small vintage table, rag rugs and lots of vintage and antique clothing. Antique and vintage purses, baby items and lovely accessories. Miniature doll house furniture, some NIB and miniature accessories; dolls and girls toys and games from the 1970’s and early 1980's including an early Cabbage Patch doll with yarn hair. Lots of books and 78 and 33-1/2 records. Yard and garden accessories and tools as well as very nice yard art and porch and deck accessories. Nice potting bench, bird baths, vintage wagon, Adirondack chairs, antique wood door and flower pots galore. Scooters and skateboards from the late 70’s early 80’s. The added bonus for this sale is the fantastic, huge room full of fabric including bolts, yard gods, medleys, fat quarters, etc. High end yarns, floss, entire wall full of notions, patterns, templates, old sewing machines, looms, cutting mats and grids, jars of buttons, batting and backing, weaving supplies and projects in various states of completion. If you are a quilter, seamstress, knitter or weaver this sale will not disappoint you. Singer Featherweight 221K and a full garage and basement. Go to EstateSales.net to view over 100 photos of this sale. Sale by: The Cottage House Antiques Estate and Moving Sales. Bethel Timmer, 616901-9898. E-mail: btcottagehouse@earthlink.net The Barry County Sheriff’s Department reported Wednesday afternoon that a Hastings woman died in a single-vehicle accident south of Nashville. Initial investigation by deputies April 11 indicated as the vehicle was traveling east on Bivens Road near Devine Road in Maple POLICE BEAT Merwin Sam Sutherland has been charged with involuntary manslaughter. Lake Odessa man charged in bar fight death Merwin Sam Sutherland, 36, of Lake Odessa was arrested April 9 and charged with involuntary manslaughter in the death of Saranac man in January. Sutherland allegedly was involved in an after-hours fight at the Townehouse Tavern in Woodland. The fight resulted in the death of Randall Baker, 51, seven days later. Allegedly, Sutherland hit Baker, causing him to fall to the ground and hit his head, resulting in injuries that led to his death. Sutherland’s bond was set at $15,000, which was posted, and he was released from custody by 5 p.m. the same day. He is scheduled to appear in Barry County District Court April 18. BOWLING SCORES Tuesday Night Mixed ~Final Standings~ Boyce Milk Haulers 86-42; Hurless Machine Shop 78.5-49.5; Hometown Lumber 76.5-51.5; Barry County Red Cross 70.557.5; J-Bar Antique Tractors 46-82; Dirt Broke 26.5-101.5 Men’s Good Games and Series - D. Benner 213-535; G. Hause 199; D. Blakely 187-546; S. Hause 184-515; C. Featherly 169; A. Dundas 168-430. Women’s Good Games and Series - B. Wilkins 203-537; D. Aare 199-517; S. Beebe 183; M. Wilcox 179-400; B. Smith 167-482; R. Gross 167; B. Norris 126-360. Monday Mixerettes Kent Oil 70.5-53.5; Nashville Chiropractic 66.5-75.5; NBT 66-58; Dean’s Dolls 65-59; Dewey’s Auto Body 56-68; James Process Service 47-73. Good games and series - D. Anders 165; J. Rice 195-506; T. Redman 141; S. Dunham 172-494; M. Rodgers 160; D. Worm 174; T. Shaeffer 184. Wednesday P.M. Delton Suds 84-40; Four Pals 72.5-51.5; The River 71-53; Hair Care 64.5-55.5*; Eye & ENT 63-61. * Games to be made up. Good games and series - J. Pettengill 124341; G. Meaney 196-522; L. Elliston 212; T. Christopher 178; K. Fowler 181-489; R. Pitts 153. Tuesday Trios ~Final Standings~ Rollarama 85-43; CB’s 77-51; Look Insurance 75-53; Lu’s Team 72-56; Team Turkey 71-57; Shirlee’s Team 70.5-57.5; Blair Landscaping 69-59; Twisted Sisters 64.5-63.5; Trouble 54-74; Coleman Agency 53-75; Classic 3 51-77; Ghost Team 18-110. High Games and Series - C. Etts 153-367; L. Potter 208; R. Brummel 175-504; P. Ramey 191-515; G. Breitner 147; S. Madry 148; D. Hunt 190; H. Reschner 185; T. Daniels 173-507; M. Heath 201, 226-604. TWO BROTHERS AND A TENT For All Your Tent Rental Needs Tables and chairs available. 77567071 Grove Township. The driver lost control of the vehicle and left the north shoulder of the roadway, overturned and struck a tree. The woman, 38, was ejected from the vehicle. She was pronounced dead at the scene. Her name was not released. The incident remains under investigation. Call: Dan McKinney 269-838-7057 or Tom McKinney 269-838-3842 77566915 Make-up leads to break-up The Hastings Walmart store reported retail fraud by two women April 10. The store’s loss prevention officer attempted to apprehend a 22-year-old Hastings woman exiting the store, but the woman fled and jumped into a passing vehicle. A description of the vehicle was provided to dispatch, and Michigan State troopers located and stopped the vehicle in the city of Hastings. The suspect was lying in the rear seat, attempting to hide from troopers. She was taken into custody and the stolen items were recovered from her purse, along with prescription medication not prescribed to her. The male driver was cleared of any involvement, having simply stopped to help someone he believed to be in distress. The second suspect, a 23-year-old Delton woman, was taken into custody at Walmart by store personnel and held for troopers. Stolen items and prescription medication not prescribed to her were recovered from her, as well. Both women were arrested on charges of retail fraud, third degree, and possession of analogues, also known as designer drugs. The stolen items were various toiletries and cosmetics. Man upset after mother kicks him out An intoxicated man called Central Dispatch April 5, reporting a disturbance between him and his mother on East Grand Street. While Hastings officers were en route, the subject continued to swear at the dispatcher, saying he was drunk and needed police. When officers arrived, the 24-yearold Hastings man said his mother had locked him out of the house and he didn’t know what to do. At that time, a women came out of the home and said the man had vomited all over the house and she wanted him out. After several minutes of arguing and repeated warnings to stop yelling profanities, the man agreed to leave after being given some socks and boots to wear. Minutes later, while officers were assisting a Michigan State Police on another situation nearby, the man walked down the sidewalk and told officers he could not proceed since an officer was standing on the sidewalk. The officer stepped off of the sidewalk allowing the man to pass. The man then began to loudly argue with officers about being kicked out of his house by his mother. He was arrested for being a disorderly person. Flashing funds draws suspicion Hastings officers responded April 6 to a home on Bridle Path where they were told homeowners had recently returned from vacation to find money missing from the home. A small amount of gasoline had been taken from the garage. The homeowners said they had asked to have someone stop in daily to check on pets while they were on vacation, but that others were not allowed in the home. Later, it was learned that an individual known to the homeowners had a sudden influx of cash and been seen showing money at a local restaurant. After an interview, the police determined that the individual had been responsible for the missing money. The subject appears to be cooperating with police at this time, with some of the missing funds having been returned to the owners. The investigation is continuing and the report has not yet been forwarded to the prosecutor’s office. item. Since the manager suspected the man of stealing Red Bull in the past, she stocked nine cans in the cooler and numbered each one, which enabled the store to track if a can was taken without payment. When deputies contacted the suspect at his home, they located an empty can of Red Bull with the number reported by the store. Deputies confiscated the can as evidence, as well as a shopping receipt. Video surveillance footage also was provided by the store manager. A warrant request and the report was forwarded to the prosecutor. Freeport Mill target of burglaries The owner of Freeport Mill reported being burglarized April 3. He told deputies that $3,500 in cash and checks and the store receipts from the previous day had been taken from a lockbox. He also said the store has been robbed more than once. An employee who arrived to open the store early that morning said she noticed nothing unusual. She said the motion detector lights were not on and the door was locked as usual. When she entered the store, the lights came on and she noticed the old safe under the cashier’s counter was open, along with several open drawers in the safe. She told deputies that after noticing the safe, she backed out of the store and called 911. After deputies checked the building, the owner and employee entered to inspect for missing items. The owner said a cash drop box was missing, and deputies noticed the north door had been kicked in. The store also has six security cameras, and the owner will be supplying footage. No fingerprints were found. The case is open pending further investigation. Rebate cashed by reprobate A Hastings woman contacted the sheriff’s department April 2 to report her rebate check from Menards had been used by someone else. She said she had purchased items from the Grand Rapids store around Christmas and was waiting for an 11 percent rebate, valued at $53. After two months of not receiving the check she contacted the store. A store employee told her the check had been cashed Feb. 20. They had the person’s information, but would not release it. Deputies contacted the store and were told the information would be retrieved and they would receive a call back. Menards later provided transaction information and surveillance photos of a possible suspect. While house sitter parties, rings go missing On April 3, a Nashville man reported jewelry and cash missing from his home after someone had been house sitting. It appeared the house sitter had hosted a party while the owner was on vacation. The owner told deputies he was certain the house sitter did not take anything. The house sitter said there were three parties and identified everyone at the parties. He told deputies he had asked everyone about the missing items and everyone was cooperative except two people, one of whom became aggressive when asked about the items and threatened the house sitter. Missing jewelry and cash is estimated at $6,800. The case has been turned over to detectives. Shoplifter’s number Thief had interest in came up music and clothes The Little Country Store on Thornapple Lake Road called April 2 to report a theft they believed to have occurred the day before. The manager explained to deputies that each time the 33-year-old suspect would enter the store, he would act suspicious and items would be missing after he left. This time, the manager believed the man had taken a can of Red Bull and a candy bar, totaling about $3. She said he did pay for a can of tea, cigarettes and another A Plainwell woman contacted the Barry County Sheriff’s Department March 31 reporting the theft of several items. She said she had lived briefly in a Shelbyville home on Chateau Court and was in the process of moving out after difficulty with one of her roommates. She reported approximately 200 compact discs, an iPod and some clothing had gone missing while she was away from the house — $2,300 worth of items. The case is closed with no solid suspects. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, April 12, 2012 — Page 13 Bradford White site plan approved by Julie Makarewicz Staff Writer From lighting to noise, traffic and vibrations, Bradford White company officials addressed concerns of neighbors before gaining approval from the Middleville Village Planning Commission for the company’s expansion site plan Tuesday night, April 3. The plan for the additional 99,294-squarefoot manufacturing and warehouse facility and for the 117-space truck and trailer parking area was approved with four minor conditions imposed by the village and a laundry list of voluntary proposals made by Bradford White. Most concerns came from neighbors in the Bryanwood Estates subdivision, directly north of Bradford White, during the rezoning hearing for a portion of the site. Neighbors were concerned about noise, lights, traffic and vibrations from the expanded site and wanted to make certain their residential properties were adequately screened and protected from their industrial neighbor. “I think their [the neighbors’] quality of life from what they have now will improve, and I hope we’ve covered everything in the parking lot to eliminate additional stresses for the community,” said planning commission chairperson Fran French. “I feel Bradford White has done a good job listening to the concerns. Everything they’ve done so far makes me think they will make it through to the end and make sure it’s done right.” Planning commission member Charles Heckman said he was impressed with Bradford White officials and their willingness to go beyond requirements for the betterment of the neighborhood. Eric Lannes, executive vice president and general manager of Bradford White, said he wants to work with the neighbors and the village. “We’ll do everything we can to work with the neighbors,” Lannes promised. Some of the details presented by Bradford White include installing a different type of warehouse construction using tilt up concrete walls. This concrete wall panel system is significantly more dense. In addition to the 9 1⁄4inch to 11 1⁄4-inch thick concrete wall panels, there will be at least two inches of insulation to help provide a more sound-deafening wall system. The company also agreed not to install or operate a public address system in the new warehouse area and efforts will be made to compact the truck parking lot area to dampen sound and vibrations. The village requires a 30-foot buffer line from the property, but Bradford White will “I think their [the neighbors’] quality of life from what they have now will improve, and I hope we’ve covered everything in the parking lot to eliminate additional stresses for the community. I feel Bradford White has done a good job listening to the concerns. Everything they’ve done so far makes me think they will make it through to the end and make sure it’s done right.” Planning commission chairperson Fran French increase that to a 40-foot buffer. There will be an three-foot berm with an eight-foot staggered board white plastic fence along the top of the berm. In addition, there will be trees planted on top of the berm that again exceed the village requirements. The elevation of the north side of the trailer parking lot will be Driver using cell phone runs stop sign, causes collision A 26-year-old Grand Rapids man, who admitted to talking on his cell phone, ran the stop sign at the corner of Carlton Center Road and Hastings Road (North Broadway) just north of M-43 Wednesday evening, April 4. Zachariah Harris’ westbound Dodge Avenger slammed into a southbound Pontiac Montana mini-van driven by a Sally Joan Poll, 52, of Hastings. The van left the west side of the road, went down into a ditch, and hit a utility pole, with its passenger side door shearing the pole in two. The van then rolled over onto the driver’s side, pinning the driver. Poll was seriously injured, and emergency workers had to remove from her vehicle. She was transported by ambulance to a hospital, but no report of her present condition has been released. Harris had minor injuries and scratches to his arm. According to one witness, Harris was reportedly standing to the side of the accident scene. increased about two feet to further obscure the vehicles from view and help reduce sound. Bradford White officials said they are also committed to reducing lighting as much as possible. Lights used will be two-panel LED fixtures with shut off availability on each fixture. The lights may also be dimmed when there is no activity or limited activity. Bradford White was also successful recently in getting a zoning board of appeals variance for parking spaces, allowing the compa- ny to have 697 spaces instead of the required 801 by village ordinances. Company officials say they have only 562 spaces currently and, even with an estimated 40 new workers, they will still have more than enough parking space. Lannes told council members earlier that the company must make these large changes in order to comply with new federal regulations governing how water heaters are made and distributed. Ionia comes from behind twice to tie Vikings The Vikings are going to work a lot on their defense this week. A couple of defensive miscues allowed Ionia to come from behind to tie the game twice Tuesday in Ionia, and Lakewood’s and Ionia’s varsity girls’ soccer teams ended their non-conference contest in a 2-2 tie. “We seem to always play Ionia close,” said Lakewood head coach Paul Gonzales. “Must be they have our number and we have theirs.” Shannon Morse scored twice for Lakewood and Courtney Jones scored twice for Ionia. Jones tied up the game for the final time with 11 minutes and 53 seconds to play. Gonzales said the game ended with a frenzy by the Vikings, as they attempted to take the lead for a third time. Lakewood opened the scoring with 27:47 left in the opening half, as Shannon Morse raced up the right side with the ball and fired in a shot. Roxanne Powelson earned the assist on the goal, setting up Morse with a pass from her spot in the center midfield. It was 11 and a half minutes later when Jones tied up the game by firing an uncontested shot from just outside the 18-yard box. It took less than four minutes for the Vikings to get the lead back once the second half started. Madi Neusifter sent a long ball ahead for Morse, who got past two defenders on the left side to find an opening for a shot. Freshman goalkeeper Danielle Kosten made nine saves on the 11 Bulldog shots in the game. Lakewood had just five shots at the other end of the field. “I thought first-year keeper, and freshman, Danielle Kosten had a pretty good game,” Gonzales said. “Also, Shannon Morse had a great game considering she was playing a little hurt. Chelsie Doran saved us a lot last night from her sweeper position.” Lakewood is now 1-1-1 this season. The Vikings don’t play again until Monday when they head to Belding. Saxon girls start the season with victory at Harper Creek A Grand Rapids man caused this accident after he ran through the intersection at the corner of Carlton Center and Hastings Road April 4. Hastings’ girls won everything but a few sprints and a couple field events as they opened the 2012 varsity track and field season with a 94-69 win at Harper Creek before spring break (March 28). The hurdle races were the best individual events for the Saxons in their win over the Beavers. Nichole Redman won both races, leading a sweep in the 100-meter event. Redman won in 17.2 seconds, with Rachel Quillen second also finishing in 17.2, and Brie Sheldon third in 18.7. In the 300-meter low hurdles, it was Redman first in 52.4 seconds and Rachel Rimer second in 53.5. Quillen added two championships in the field to that runner-up finish in the 100-meter hurdles. She won the high jump by clearing 5 feet and the long jump with a mark of 15-.5. The Saxons’ other win in the field came in the shot put, which Jillian Bailey won. Redman added a third win, teaming with Cherie Kosbar, Rimer and Trista Straube to take the 1600-meter relay in 4 minutes 28.7 seconds. Hastings won three of the four relays. Grace Bosma, Rimer, Amanda Sarhatt and Straube took the 3200-meter relay in 10:54.4 and Mara Speer, Christy Clark, Sheldon and Amber Myers won the 400meter relay with their time of 56.7. Hastings won the three longest individual races on the track too, with Bosma taking the 800 in 2:38.4, Straube the 1600 in 5:42.7 and Sarhatt the 3200 in 13:45.0. Hastings’ boys fell 114-48 in their dual with the Beavers. The Saxons open up the O-K Gold Conference season at Caledonia Thursday afternoon, and will be in action again on Saturday as they host the annual Hastings Relays. Give the gift of NEWS! Send friends and family a gift subscription to The BANNER! Emergency crews work to remove a 52-year-old Hastings woman from her mini-van. The sheared-off utility pole is shown at the bottom of the photo. To subscribe, call us at... 269-945-9554 Call 269-945-9554 anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads SAXON WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE Complete online schedule at: www.hassk12.org THURSDAY, APRIL 12 12:00 PM 4:00 PM 4:00 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:30 PM 4:30 PM Boys Girls Girls Boys Girls Girls Boys Girls Varsity Varsity JV Varsity Varsity JV Varsity Varsity Golf Tennis Tennis Baseball Softball Softball Track Track TUESDAY, APRIL 17 DKHS-Delton Inv. Lakewood HS Lakewood HS Caledonia HS Caledonia HS (DH) Caledonia HS (DH) Caledonia HS Caledonia HS A H H H A H A A Pennfield HS Pennfield HS H H 4:00 PM Girls JV Soccer 5:30 PM Girls Varsity Soccer ?? 06778507 SATURDAY, APRIL 14 Licensed / Insured / Local Call Scott 517-290-5556 • 877-448-1548 3:45 PM 4:00 PM 4:00 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 5:00 PM 6:30 PM 77567043 Come help support the Class of 2012 Boys Boys Boys Girls Girls Girls Girls Varsity Varsity JV Varsity Varsity Varsity JV Baseball Track Baseball Softball Tennis Track Softball Barry County Invite H Hastings Relays H Barry Co. Inv @ Lkwd. A Barry County Invite H Vicksburg HS (Vicks. Inv.) A Hastings Relays H Barry County Invite H MONDAY, APRIL 16 Saturday, April 14th at 8am-10am Seasonal Grille 150 W. State St., Hastings All proceeds will help with the after graduation party to make this a very memorable night! This event is put on by the Parents of Hastings High School Senior Party Committee. 06778483 FREE Consultation & Estimates! ALSO EGRESS WINDOWS / MOLD REMEDIATION 9:00 AM 9:00 AM 9:00 AM 9:00 AM 9:00 AM 9:00 AM 9:00 AM Boys Girls Girls Boys Boys Girls Girls Girls JV Varsity JV Fresh. MS MS JV Varsity Varsity Varsity JV Varsity JV Fresh. Varsity Varsity Golf Baseball Baseball Softball Softball Softball Track Track Caledonia HS GR Catholic Central (DH) GR Catholic Central (DH) GR Catholic Central (DH) GR Catholic Central (DH) Portland HS (DH) GR Catholic Central GR Catholic Central A H A H A A H H Golf Tennis Tennis Baseball Track Track Soccer Soccer Caledonia HS GR Catholic Central GR Catholic Central Ionia HS (DH) Caledonia HS Caledonia HS Jenison HS Jenison HS A H A H A A A A 3:45 PM 4:00 PM 4:00 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 5:00 PM 6:45 PM Boys Girls Girls Boys Girls Girls Girls Girls JV Varsity JV Fresh. Varsity JV JV Varsity Golf Tennis Tennis Baseball Softball Softball Soccer Soccer S. Christian HS H Thornapple-Kellogg HS A Thornapple-Kellogg HS H Forest Hills East. HS (DH) H Plainwell HS (DH) A Plainwell HS (DH) H Caledonia HS A Caledonia HS A THURSDAY, APRIL 19 3:45 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:30 PM 4:30 PM Boys Boys Girls Boys Girls Varsity Varsity Fresh. Varsity Varsity Golf Baseball Softball Track Track Forest Hills Eastern HS GR Catholic Central Sparta HS (DH) Thornapple-Kellogg HS Thornapple-Kellogg HS A A A A A Thanks to This Week’s Sponsor: Times and dates subject to change HASTINGS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS Contact Nancy 945-2742 or hastingsathleticboosters@gmail.com to sponsor the schedule Phone: (269) 948-2244 77567144 Hungry Boys Boys Boys Girls Girls Girls Boys Girls WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18 FRIDAY, APRIL 13 77567040 3:45 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:30 PM 4:30 PM �Page 14 — Thursday, April 12, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Trojans outshoot Falcons 28-1 in shut-out victory by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The ball could have hit the back of the net a few more times, but with the cold and windy conditions and being that it was the first contest after spring break the Trojans will take it. Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity girls’ soccer team improved to 2-1 on the season with a 40 win over visiting Freedom Christian at Bob White Stadium in Middleville Tuesday. “We’re playing well,” said Thornapple Kellogg head coach Joel Strickland, “just tonight we honestly couldn’t finish. We outshot them 28 to 1. Their goalie (Carissa Seeley) had some good saves, but really truthfully we just need to finish better. They played well. You can’t complain about a game like that. We dominated most of it.” Holley Tripp, Erin Scheidel, Hayley Balsitis and Jessica Ziccarello scored the four Trojan goals. Despite an enormous advantage in shots and time of possession, TK didn’t light the scoreboard until a Trojan corner kick took an unfortunate bounce for the Falcons off a defender’s arm. Balsitis converted on the penalty kick with 17:01 to play in the first half. A corner kick also led to the Trojans’ second goal. The ball bounded left to right though the Falcon goal-mouth to where Scheidel was waiting on the first side to hit it into the net. The Trojans picked up the attack a little more in the second half, getting a few more good crosses from the wings and taking a few more shots from further away from the clutter in front of the Falcon net. Scheidel centered a ball to Tripp eight and a half minutes into the second half, and Tripp knocked a shot off the cross bar that came down in front of Balsitis. She powered it into Thornapple Kellogg’s Jessica Ziccarello battles with Freedom Christian’s Patricia Slusser for possession of the ball during the first half of Tuesday’s non-conference contest in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) the net for a 3-0 Trojan lead. The Trojans’ final goal also came off a rebound. Taylor Dalton had a shot deflect off the Falcon keeper Seeley and then off teammate Jessica Ziccarello and into the net. “In the first half, (the Falcons) were putting a lot of girls in the box defensively, so we were saying what we had to do was take more Thornapple Kellogg’s Hayley Balsitis and Freedom Christian’s Kelsey Schenk (7) and Carissa Seeley (GK) meet at the ball in front of Freedom Christian’s net during the first half Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) shots further out and be willing with our for- wards to drop the ball back to our mids and rip some shots out there, because they were just packing that box in so much that we couldn’t finish,” Strickland said. “We’ve just got to take advantage of our opportunities. We played well tonight. There’s nothing to be ashamed of. In tighter games, you might only get one or two of those opportunities that we didn’t take advantage of and we’ve got to be willing to put the ball in the back of the net.” On the other end, the Trojan defense was hardly tested, but did everything it needed to do to limit the Falcons. “We’ve got a great defense,” Strickland said. “I know it seems like our defense doesn’t touch the ball a lot, but when they do and that ball is played our defense wins every ball. You’ve got girls back there like Demi Scott, Tara McKenna, Allison Brown, Alaina Pohl, and then Kayla Strumberger plays back there for us too. Those five girls, they’re solid. Demi and Tara tonight, they just played so well, and any time the team gets the ball they’re on them. There aren’t too many times where I’m worried about our defense, and when we do get beat we’ve got enough speed where we can get back and recover.” The only real threat all night came on a Falcon counter-attack. The Falcons’ Emilly Gatlin sent a long ball ahead for teammate Alexia Pronk who closed in on the Trojan net and hit a shot that was saved by Trojan keeper Chelsea Totten who came sliding out of her net towards the action. The Trojans have two more non-conference Trojan midfielder Erin Scheidel sets herself to fire a crossing pass towards the Freedom Christian net during the second half Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) contests before the start of the O-K Gold Conference season. They’ll be home against Hamilton Thursday, then at Byron Center Monday. The league season begins for TK at Grand Rapids Catholic Central Wednesday. TK Special Olympics team takes Gold at State Finals The TK Trojans Special Olympics basketball team won its first ever gold medal at the state finals during the weekend of March 2324 in Rockford. The team of high school athletes won the Senior Division 8 title by winning both its games at the State Finals, including a 35-13 win over the GR Center Buffaloes in the championship game. Thornapple Kellogg has had a Special Olympics basketball team for 14 years. This year’s team played in tournaments and hosted its own tournament in February at Thornapple Kellogg High School. The sports certification class provided all of the referees for tournament in Middleville, a way to practice live what they had learned in the classroom. It was a day-long event and that was attended by four other school districts. “This team really came together and supported one another very well,” said Thornapple Kellogg special education transition coordinator Heidi Prior. “Throughout the season one could hear team members encouraging one another as well as calling each other out in a kind yet no nonsense manner. They truly took the Special Olympics oath to heart: ‘Let me win, but if I cannot win let me be brave in the attempt.’” Nearly 700 athletes, coaches and chaperones gathered in Rockford for the 2012 State Basketball Finals. About 350 volunteers were also on hand providing support, encouragement and cheers. This two day competition The TK Trojans celebrate their gold medal winning performance at the Special Olympics of Michigan’s 2012 State Basketball Finals in Rockford. was hosted by the Grand Rapids Jaycees for the 31st year. Tournament play included divisions for senior males (ages 16 and up), junior males (ages 8-16), females and skills athletes. In addition to team play, there was a skills com- petition for athletes who are not able to compete in a team setting. Basketball skills such as shooting and dribbling were measured. The skills competition provides athletes who may not be ready for team play an opportunity to work on specific skills related to the sport. Trojans fall in extra innings again The Thornapple Kellogg varsity baseball team has gotten two games in this spring and suffered two extra-innings defeats. Wyoming Park dropped the Trojan’s record to 0-2 with an 8-7 eight-inning win in Wyoming Monday. The host Vikings pushed across two runs to tie the game at 7-7 in the bottom of the seventh, after a three-run Trojan rally in the top half of the inning, then scored the winning run with two-out in the bottom of the eighth. Austin Lajcak was hit with the loss for TK, after coming on in relief of Dalton Phillips at the start of the sixth inning. He only gave up two hits in two and two thirds, but walked two and hit two batters. Phillips gave up ten hits while striking out six and walking two through the first five innings, and only three of the five runs against him were earned. TK struck first with a first-inning run, but Wyoming Park took control of the game with two runs in the second and three more in the fourth. TK rallied for three runs in the top of the fifth, then took the lead back with its three runs in the seventh. Cody Ybema and Garrett Harris led the TK attack with three hits each. Harris had a single, a double and a home run. He drove in four runs and scored two himself. Ybema had two singles and a double, netting an RBI and three runs. Dylan VanPutten had a pair of singles and an RBI for TK as well. Those three combined for all eight of the Trojans’ hits. Thornapple Kellogg had its O-K Gold Conference opener against Grand Rapids Catholic Central postponed Tuesday. The Trojans were set to host the Cougars for one game Wednesday afternoon, and will play their league double header in Grand Rapids Thursday afternoon. The Trojans then head to Hastings Friday for the Barry County Invitational. DK boys track wins first KVA dual in final race 06778324 Delton Kellogg junior Brandon Robbins swept the top spot in the two hurdle races, and five other Panthers won individual events, as Delton Kellogg’s varsity boys’ track and field team opened the season with a 73-64 Kalamazoo Valley Association victory at Olivet Tuesday. Robbins won both hurdle races by about a second, taking the 110-meter high hurdles in 16.76, topping the Eagles’ Travis Campbell who came in at 17.66. Robbins took the 300meter intermediate hurdles in 44.4 seconds, topping Campbell’s time of 45.4. The Delton Kellogg girls’ also had a twotime champ in the hurdles, Andrea Polley, but the Olivet girls scored an 83-53 win in their dual. Robbins was the only Delton Kellogg boy to win two events. The Panthers won every event where leaping was involved. Ryan Watson won the high jump by clearing 5 feet 8 inches, Connor Wolschleger won the long jump with a leap of 19-4, and the pole vault champ was Brady Mills who cleared 9-0. Olivet won the other two events in the field, with Tyler Shaver taking the discus with a mark of 116-9 and Don Kyre the shot put at 42-5. Shaver and Kyre both scored in each of the throwing events. On the track, Delton started the evening by winning the 3200-meter relay in 9 minutes 9.2 seconds, and added wins in two of the other three relays as well. The Panthers won the 400-meter relay in 47.1 and the 1600meter relay in 3:54. The Panthers needed that win in the day’s final race, the 1600-meter relay, leading by four points heading into that event. The Eagle foursome finished that race in 3:58.5. Other winners for Delton Kellogg included Nick Brindley who took the 100-meter dash in 11.5 and Austin Ketola who won the 800meter run in 2:19. The Eagles had Tyler Sobleskey win the two distance races, taking the 3200-meter run in 10:37 and the 1600 in 4:54. Olivet also had Zac Page win the 400-meter dash in 56.2 and Colin Spencer take the 200 in 24.9. The Olivet girls only won three more events than the Delton Kellogg girls, but scored the only points in the two relays it won as well as in four individual events. The Eagles were first and second in the pole vault and 3200-meter run, with no points awarded for third place in either event, and swept the three scoring places in the high jump and the discus. Polley took the two hurdle events for Delton, winning the 100-meter hurdles in 17.3 seconds and the 300-meter low hurdles in 51.8. Jolene Drum also won two individual events for the Panther girls’, taking the 800meter run in 2:45.5 and the 1600 in 6:30. Delton’s lone win in the field came in the shot put, which Mallory Sewell took with a mark of 32-0. The Panthers also took the 400-meter relay in 57 seconds and the 1600-meter relay in 4:46.3. Aleena Janousek won two individual events for the Eagles, taking the high jump by clearing 4-6 and winning the 400-meter dash in 1:09.9. Hayley Walkowski won three events, and placed second in the high jump by matching Janousek’s mark of 4-6. Walkowski also won the 100-meter dash in 13.1, the 200 in 29.0 and the long jump with a mark of 151.25. The Delton teams head back to Olivet Friday for the Olivet Relays, then will host a meet for the first time this season when they take on Kalamazoo Christian in another KVA dual Tuesday. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-04-19.pdf 9f352bfcdf6daeabf7f573025a923e95 PDF Text Text Thornapple Manor breaks ground for dementia unit Sounds of jazz ring thoughout Hastings TK boys best at Barry County Invitational See Story on Page 18 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 16 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 16 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, April 19, 2012 Thirteen Hastings teachers announce retirement NEWS BRIEFS Showcase to feature music, special drama tonight The Tanis Sisters, with special guest Rev. Steve Reid, will be featured during the Community Music Showcase at 6:45 p.m. Thursday, April 19, at Thomas Jefferson Hall in Hastings. The Tanis Sisters from Caledonia play gospel and bluegrass music. Members of the group include Bethany, 20, who plays mandolin and acoustic guitar. Fourteenyear-old Olivia plays acoustic guitar, and Christin, 12, plays bass. All three lend their vocal talents to their music which has been influenced by Bill Gaither and Bill Monroe. Reid will present his original drama about Simon Peter, which was written and first performed in 1980. No admission is charged for the showcase; freewill offering will be accepted. Thomas Jefferson Hall is located at 328, S. Jefferson St., Hastings. Community invited to honor John Fehsenfeld Everyone is invited to attend an open house in honor of John Fehsenfeld from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, April 20, at the Kellogg Community College Fehsenfeld Center in Hastings. Fehsenfeld and his steering team were instrumental in bringing the KCC satellite campus to Hastings 15 years ago. He is the former superintendent of the Barry Intermediate School District. Community Music School event planned Saturday The Community Music School will present Hats Off to Music, its annual Shareathon event from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday, April 21, at Hastings First Baptist Church, 309 E. Woodlawn Ave. This is a free event, and guests are welcome to attend for all or part of the festivities. Shareathon, an event to raise money to fund financial aid and other costs not covered by tuition, will feature many CMS private lesson students and faculty in several recitals throughout the day. Also appearing will be CMS Singers, the Community Music School children’s choir, and Fiddles ‘n’ Strums, a group that introduces bluegrass and folk music to students with provided guitars and fiddles. A 50/50 raffle will also take place. For more information, call 269-948-9441 or visit www.yourmusiccenter.org. Fiddlers group to play at COA Saturday The Original Michigan Fiddlers Association will have a jamboree Saturday, April 21, at the Barry County Commission on Aging, 320 W. Woodlawn Ave., in Hastings. The jamboree is open to the public, free of charge. See NEWS BRIEFS, continued on page 2 by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer At the end of the current school year, Hastings Area Schools will say good-bye to 13 teachers with a combined total of 328 years of service, including both the middle and high school band and choir directors. Band director Joan Bosserd-Schroeder and choir director Patti LaJoye will work with administrators to select their successors. This is the final year that early retirement incentives, or buy-outs, are being offered to teachers in the state of Michigan. Interim Superintendent of Schools Michelle Falcon said that while the teachers and the experience they bring to the classroom will be missed in Hastings Area Schools, she is pleased that they have the opportunity to take advantage of the retirement incentives and to pursue other interests and career opportunities. The Hastings Board of Education approved the personnel report Monday which contained news of the following retirements: BosserdSchroeder, 28.5 years of service; elementary art teacher Kim Evans, 27 years of service; Southeastern Elementary special education teacher Susan Fecko, 36 years; seventh and eighth grade English teacher Patricia Lynn Fleischer-Gibson, 23 years; sixth grade math teacher Janet Foley, 27.75 years; Northeastern Elementary special education teacher Wendy Frame, 32 years; third grade Northeastern Elementary math teacher Dolares Garland, 23 years of service; Northeastern Elementary fifth grade teacher Alice Gergen, 28.5 years; LaJoye, 29 years; middle school art teacher Deborah Mepham, 16 years; middle school history and computers teacher Kim O’Mara, 14 years; high school English language arts teacher Geraldine Pyles, 18 years; high school social studies teacher Karl Schwartz, 25.5 years of service. The board will hold a reception in honor o this year’s retirees in May, the date and time to be announced. The personnel report also contained notice of the following: Transfer/reassignment — Amy Collins, high school secretary. Appointments — Julie Johnson, substitute bus driver; Paula Pierce, Northeastern and Star Elementary lunch para-professional; Tiffany Blakely, middle school boys’ track coach; Wendi McCausey, middle school assistant track coach. Continuing tenure — Andrew Keller, and Lisa Pohl. In other business, the board: • Approved a resolution setting Tuesday, May 8, as School Family Day to honor teachers throughout the district. • Approved a bid of $44,508 from Janson Industries of Ohio for the Central Auditorium project, which is one of the last components of the bond issue passed by voters two years ago. The work will include replacing the stage curtain and upgrading projection systems. • Accepted a donation of $2,500 from Hastings Mutual Insurance Company toward the Roe Reading Room, a young adult library at the high school. The room is being established in memory of Hastings High School English language arts teacher Carrie Roe, who died in February. • Discussed a policy committee recommendation to change the way grade point averages are currently calculated, which is a flat 2.0, 3.0 or 4.0 scale, and instead weight grades on a .3 scale based on plusses and minuses. If the policy is implemented, it would go into effect See TEACHERS, pg. 5 Hastings school board Pets dominate discussion approves six-year terms at county board meeting by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Hastings Board of Education members voted unanimously, with treasurer Rob Longstreet absent, to extend their terms from four to six years starting with the November 2012 election, when the seats currently held by trustees Patricia Endsley and Gene Haas, whose terms expire Dec. 31, will be on the ballot. Both Endsley and Haas said they will not seek re-election. However, Haas weighed in to say that he felt longer terms would allow the board to benefit from the knowledge and experience of its members. “I know I have heard a lot of support for the four-year term,” Haas said. “But, from where I have sat, and the experience that I have had, there is tremendous benefit in having members on the board with really long history, if you will, because, over the years there accumulates a certain amount of experience, which if you are changing the board completely every four years, you lose that continuity or that continuity of vision.” Introducing the proposed policy change before the discussion and vote, Hastings Interim Superintendent Michelle Falcon said it was the policy committee’s recommendation that the board approve six-year terms. In response to a question from a member of the audience, Falcon said that the committee made the recommendation because with switching to even-year November elections, four-year terms would result in replacing half the board every other year (alternating three and four seats during each election cycle; where the six-year terms would result in an election cycle of two seats up for election, two seats during the next election, then three seats in the last election of the cycle. Road work on North Broadway brings traffic congestion Drivers on North Broadway in Hastings are being advised to give themselves an extra five to 10 minutes of commute time during peak hours in the morning and afternoon — approximately 7:30 to 8:15 a.m. and from 5 to 6 p.m. Traffic will remain reduced to one lane in each direction until early September. Officials from the Michigan Department of Transportation said they have adjusted the timing of the traffic lights on North Broadway based on anticipated traffic flow. In a couple of weeks, they said they will readjust the timing if it is deemed necessary to accommodate and improve the traffic flow. The Michigan Avenue bridge over the Thornapple River is being replaced, bringing what is normally six lanes of north/south traffic over the river down to two lanes. “It would result in fewer seats replaced in each election,” she said. Endsley said most school boards in the area have opted for six-year terms. During public comment, community member Terry Greenfield said six-year terms are too long. “[Board members] will get stagnant on the job because they are not worried that someone is going to take their place in four years,” he said. Board President Kevin Beck was the sole board member to speak against the six-year terms, although he ultimately cast his vote in favor of longer terms for board trustees. “I am not on the policy committee ... But I do think six-year terms, that sometimes people, it scares people to think that it’s a long commitment is what I would like to say,” he said. “...Six years is a long commitment, and that is my first blush at it. But, as I have said, I am going to support the policy committee because I know they’ve looked at this in detail and looked at all the different alternatives.” “I set down and went through and looked at the people I have served with and the average life of service is about 12 years,” said Endsley, who has been on the board for 27 years. “I, just out of curiosity, did that on my own.” Endsley said she would encourage anyone interested in running for a seat on the board to start attending board works sessions and meetings to get a better understanding of what the board does and how it operates. Residents of the Hastings school district interested in running for one of the two board seats during the Tuesday, Nov. 7, election must file their petitions by 4 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 14, at the Barry County Clerk’s office. by Doug VanderLaan Editor All God’s creatures had a place at the table Tuesday as Barry County Commissioners grappled with three requests from the Barry County Animal Control/Shelter Advisory Board during the former’s committee of the whole meeting. “I’m all for working together,” summed up Commissioner Joe Lyons, “but everybody has to realize that, no matter what the outcome is, this is for the animals.” For the benefit of the animals, commissioners approved a proposal for animal control and shelter volunteers to bring adoptable animals from the shelter to the May 19 Charlton Park Day in an effort to promote adoption of the animals. In two related items, the board approved for recommendation at next Tuesday’s official board of commission meeting a waiver of adoption and other fees of adoptable animals to nonprofit rescue organizations and, secondly, a reduction of the $18 annual license fee for unneutered dogs to the $7 fee charged neutered pets, contingent on the adopter providing proof of a pre-pay neuter procedure from a veterinarian. After posing some questions and mild protests about animals being confined to pens for Charlton Park Day, discussion took a more serious direction when Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf, describing the organizational detail needed in planning such a venture, raised the precautions needed to prevent the spread of disease. “There are all kinds of diseases that can stay in the ground for a long time,” pointed out Leaf, who oversees the Animal Control office. “Parvo is very contagious, and a week ago, we had to sterilize the whole facility because of an outbreak.” Canine parvovirus, which occurs worldwide, is a sometimes fatal gastrointestinal infection that affects mainly puppies. “I don’t understand, Sheriff,” interjected Commissioner Don Nevins, “aren’t diseases taken care of before animals are placed in the shelter?” Even though assured by Kathy Wiggins, chair of the Animal Shelter Advisory Board, that the animals would remain in pens for the May 19 event, commissioners were also reminded that the animals would still urinate and, ultimately, would pollute the soil. “Bringing animals to a public event is a proven way to connect the public with the animals available for adoption at the shelter,” Wiggins commented. “We could include animals that have been successfully adopted, too.” Commissioner Robert Houtman mentioned past discussions regarding animals, including goats and pigs, at flea markets and other events. “It would be the same for Charlton Park, but the animal shelter is identified as a nonprofit community,” said Houtman. “The economic value is in the adoption; it’s not in the shelter.” Houtman appealed for a binding, consensus vote on the issue since, because it did not relate to a funding issue, should not have to be forwarded to the official board meeting April 24 for approval. Commissioners passed the resolution unanimously, then turned to the two related contentious issues. In describing the deterrent of charging a $67 adoption fee and other related costs to nonprofit “rescue” organizations that may adopt animals from the Barry County Animal See PETS, page 5 �Page 2 — Thursday, April 19, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Jazz festival draws thousands to Hastings An estimated 10,000 people came to the jazz festival in Hastings over the weekend. More than 50 school jazz bands played and learned from experienced musicians. Restaurants and other venues in town were standing room only. The Thornapple Arts Council, its many sponsors and more than 50 volunteers again brought the largest Michigan event of its kind to the streets of Hastings. "The Jazz Festival was a phenomenal success this year. We had 102 performances in one weekend," said Thornapple Arts Council Executive Director Megan Lavell. "We were thrilled with the turn-out and hope to continue this success in future years. The Thornapple Arts Council is very fortunate to have a wonderful community that supports our organization and the Jazz Festival. It is through the generosity of local businesses and volunteers that this program happens every year." Photos by David DeDecker Saturday night is capped off by the Gull Lake Jazz Orchestra. The Gull Lake Jazz Orchestra is joined by jazz vocalist Edye Evans-Hyde, who performed or taught all three days during the jazz festival The Hastings High School Steel Drum Band keeps the rain away on Friday with some tropical rhythm. Jazz Festival Chairman Joe LaJoye introduces the Michigan Middle School All-Star Jazz Band. Caleb Keech, an eighth grade student at Hastings Middle School, is pictured in the center. For Saturday night’s main performance at Hastings First United Methodist Church, it is standing room only with both balconies full and folding chairs placed wherever they would fit. NEWS BRIEFS continued from front page The Roscommon Middle School Jazz Band shakes the rafters of Hastings First United Methodist Church’s community room. A trumpet soloist from South Haven prepares to wail. At right: The South Haven High School Jazz Band brightens up the community room of Hastings City Bank April 13. Bottom right: Comstock Park’s High School Jazz Band lights up the afternoon at the Barry Community Enrichment Center sanctuary. Call anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads 269-945-9554 Anyone who plays an acoustic instrument is welcome to join in and play backup, fiddle at the microphone or jam with other musicians. Fiddlers will perform in front of the microphones from 1 to 5 p.m. Open mic will be from 5 to 6:30 p.m. during dinner. Square and round dance will begin at 6:30 and continue until 9:30 p.m. For more information, call Paula Brawdy, 616-240-0445. Book of Golden Deeds nominations wanted Each year, the Hastings Exchange Club honors an individual from the area for his or her selfless service to the community. Past recipients include Suzy Baum, Bob May, Jim Atkinson, Jim Spindler, Elaine Gilbert and Loretta Schoessel. Nomination forms have been distributed to all local service clubs and organizations. However, nominees do not need to be a member of service organizations to be nominated, and anyone in the community may nominate an individual based on his or her service and volunteerism. Nomination forms are available at Hastings Public Library and the front desk of J-Ad Graphics. Forms should be filled out and returned to Exchange Club President Nancy Bradley, 550 Lakeside Dr., Hastings 49058 by Friday, May 4. For more information, call Bradley, 269948-2763 or Margie Haas, 269-945-2941 or 269-838-3392. DKHS alumni banquet plans underway The Delton Kellogg High School alumni banquet will be Saturday evening, May 19, in the fellowship hall of the Faith United Methodist Church in Delton, 503 S. Grove St. (M-43), in Delton at 6 p.m. Honored classes at this year’s event will be alumni from 2012, 1987 and 1962. The catered meal is $12.50 per person. Tickets need to be purchased by Saturday, May 12. Send reservations to Delores Kroes, 11575 Floria Road, Delton 49046 and indicate year of graduation. For more information, visit http://dkhsalumni.org or call Nancy Kroes, 269-6232917, or Mary Sager, 269-623-2610. Toothbrush sale to benefit children Friday, April 27, from 1 to 7 p.m. and Saturday, April 28, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Hastings Exchange Club will conduct its annual toothbrush sale outside of Family Fare Supermarket in Hastings. All proceeds from the sale will directly benefit programs of the Family Support Center of Barry County, formerly known as the Barry County Child Abuse Prevention Council. Toothbrushes for this year’s sale were donated by Gole Dental Group. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, April 19, 2012 — Page 3 Plein air painters capture the heart of Cary farm in Hastings Don Marek of Kalamazoo starts his watercolor with soft fluid washes and uses the white of the paper to his advantage when painting water reflections. by David DeDecker Staff Writer The Plein Air Artists of West Michigan were invited by the Cary family and the Southwest Michigan Land Conservancy to use the Cary farm, next to Hastings High School, for an outdoor painting expedition April 14. The painters arrived prepared for the forecasted rain, but were graced with only gray skies and hints of sunshine throughout the day. Near the painters, high school athletic competitions were taking place, including track, baseball and softball. The artists walked the property and chose their subject matters, then set up easels and began to create in oils, watercolors and pastels. Jim Cary, who grew up on the farm, transported artists, if needed, by tractor to a location. Afterward, the Carys offered refreshments, and the artists reviewed the day’s work. According to Peggy (Cary) Hodgson, Hastings residents have long loved the Cary property and used it as their own, particularly as a public access to Sweezey’s Pond. “The family has always shared it with others, and have made it their permanent legacy by protecting it,” said Hodgson. Mary, who with her late husband Dr. Robert Cary, has owned the farm since 1953, donated a large portion of their property to the Southwest Michigan Land Conservancy in 2008. The land includes hills, pine forests and deep woods, along with open fields and places that have taken on names such as Deer Hollow, Dead Horse Canyon, Sock Hill, Witches Hollow, The Milk Truck, and of Jeff Furrow of Hastings enjoys his first outing with Plein Air Artists of West Michigan at the Cary farm. course, Sweezey’s Pond. The Cary children named most of these places. Sweezey’s Pond was created by James Sweezey in the late 1800s, and by the mid1900s it was stocked with trout. The Cary kids used it to swim — on horseback. The dam that Sweezey built washed out due to heavy rains more than a year ago, but plans are being made to restore the pond to its historic depth. “Our partnership with the Southwest Michigan Land Conservancy makes our paint-outs at conservation easements possible,” said Richard Jordan, painter and organizer for the Plein Air Artists. “Through SWMLC we have had the pleasure to meet so many wonderful people. The Cary family is one more example of that.” For more information on the Plein Air Artists of West Michigan, email Jordan, paawmtalk@gmail.com, or go online to www.paawm.org. For more information on the Southwest Michigan Land Conservancy, call 269-324-1600 or visit www.SWMLC.org. Sharon Griffes Tarr of Williamston puts pigment to canvas, with Hastings High School to her left. Diann Lemmen of Holland works on a painting of a pond with the group of whitebarked trees peeking into the canvas’ composition. Photos by David DeDecker Patty Londy of Howell gets right in the thick of it, painting flooded timbers at the Cary farm. Karen VanDam Michmerhuizen (right) of Holland oil paints a landscape of the Cary farm. Over the distant hill, a baseball tournament and track invitational are taking place. Lynn Steil of Three Rivers focuses her watercolor on the stark white of the lone birches next to a pond. Carrie Lin of Paw Paw works on a watercolor of a flowering woodland tree. �Page 4 — Thursday, April 19, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Jan Atanay of Delton captured this photo of a sandhill crane at Lake 21. She said the cranes — which are migratory birds that normally winter in Florida and Georgia — showed up at the Cloverdale lake March 7. She took this photo weeks later as the crane was standing to dry off after a swim. Do you We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. We’ll select a photograph for publication each week. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Sounds of jazz ring out throughout downtown Hastings Thanks to the ninth annual Thornapple Arts Council Jazz Festival, thousands of residents and parents enjoyed the unique sounds of jazz in Hastings last weekend. If you like jazz, the weekend offered a chance to hear some great music from thousands of young talented musicians during National Jazz Appreciation Month. According to festival chairman Joe LaJoye, the local event attracted more than 10,000 visitors. The jazz festival was billed as one of the largest events of its kind in the state. The focus is to attract high school jazz bands from around the state to special workshops, along with a chance to perform in front of professional musicians in one-onone clinics relating to performance, rhythm, chord progressions and style. Five respected clinician judges — including a steel drum professional — provided evaluation and guidance to 54 high school groups who came from as far away as St. Ignace in the Upper Peninsula. Each group received a recording of its performance and a clinical observation to take home for future reference. As a volunteer, I was able to experience firsthand the difference these professional musicians and their evaluations made on the young musicians. The experts pushed them to excel, to feel the music and to continue to grow in their musical performance and expressions. The arts council added vocal musical clinics Friday afternoon that attracted know? Do you recognize this couple in their matching rocking chairs? The cards and flowers on the table indicate some type of holiday or celebration, perhaps an anniversary? Do you know who the people are? Do you know why or when the photo was taken? If so, please let us know. The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event to reunite the photos with their original clippings or identify photos that may never have been published. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@jadgraphics.com; or call 269945-9554. Last week’s photo of men and women in colorful aprons at the J.C. Penney store in Hastings drew a few Have you responses. Sandy Daniel said her grandmother Vesta Shedd had worked at the store and had a similar photo with some names on the back. People were identified as (front row, from left) George Carpenter, Vesta Shedd, Unknown Varney, Unknown Bell, Reva Benson, Arloa Burghdoff, (back) Unknown, Unknown Towne, Unknown Bryans, Dean Keeler, Florence Meade, Pat (Foote) Cain, Lucille Unknown and Belva Bryans. Do you recognize any of the ‘unknown’ people? If so, let us know. met? Thomas James “Bud” Spencer is looking forward to his 96 birthday in July. Bud was born and raised at the family farm on Keefer Highway near Sunfield. He attended a one-room school, and graduated from Portland High School in 1944. He raised a family, ran a dairy farm with registered brown Swiss cattle and lots of sheep. He somehow found time to get a pilot’s license and enjoyed re-loading shells and target shooting, as well as hunting. A woodworker, Bud built toys for his children and later a motor boat. He recently donated several items from the family farm to the Welch Museum in Sunfield. For his generosity of spirit and legacy of giving Bud has been chosen as a Bright Light. Favorite TV program: ‘The Lawrence Welk Show.’ I love music and was often asked to sing at weddings and funerals. Favorite song: “The Old Rugged Cross” and “The Lord’s Prayer.” Favorite vacation: Big Twin Lake near Kalkaska for family vacations. I would pull the kids around the lake on a water sled in a boat I built. Best president: Ronald Reagan. Favorite food: Have to have ice cream. My favorite dinner would be meatloaf and mashed potatoes. Person most admired: Abraham Lincoln. Best gift: A glider ride on my 92nd birthday. The pilot gave me the controls. Each week, The Banner profiles a person from the community working behind the scenes, whose efforts may not make headlines, but whose dedication makes Barry County shine. We’ll provide a quick peek each week at some of Barry County’s stars. Do you know someone who should be featured? Send information to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@jadgraphics.com. James “Bud” Spencer Deputy investigates claims of proposed violations to Open Meetings Act by Nashville officials Concerns that three Nashville Village Council members violated the Michigan Open Meetings Act on four occasions in the past week have prompted a Barry County Sheriff’s Department investigation. A deputy from the department responded Saturday, April 7, to a complaint filed by village resident Gary White, who alleged that three council members had entered the village hall and locked the entry door behind them. White raised concerns about citizen access to the meeting and improper notification of the meetings, including the fact that no meeting notice had been posted on the village hall door. The interpretation of the Open Meetings Act is not exact in all cases and its correct practice is often innocently breached. After investigation, the sheriff’s deputy determined that the Saturday meeting in which White had observed council members participating had involved the council’s police committee and pertained to actions involving a Nashville Village Police officer. Although the Saturday meeting — and the three others that preceded it — involved a committee of the entire village council and though the police officer in question had the right to request a closed meeting of the committee, the Open Meetings Act clearly states that closed meetings can commence only after a motion is made and approval granted of the committee to go into closed session. The Act also states that closed sessions must move back into open session before a meeting of a public body may adjourn. Minutes of the closed session also must be made available. In the case of the four meetings in question, minutes are not available, and, according to the posting of the meetings, they began in closed session without an open meeting to announce the closed session or the return to an open meeting. A Maple Valley News reporter did attend a fifth meeting, which began at 5 p.m. Tuesday, April 10. That meeting correctly convened as an open meeting and recessed to a closed session at the request of a police officer who was the subject of the meeting. No minutes of the meeting, however, have been made available at this time. Nashville Village Clerk Cathy Lentz, in a follow-up phone conversation with the Maple Valley News said she has informed council members of the Open Meetings Act requirements but is not present during committee meetings to verify if the meetings are conducted in compliance with the act. She went on to say that minutes from committee meetings are available at the village office as soon as they are made available to her. Proper posting of the meetings also appears to be in question. The Open Meetings Act states that all meetings must be posted at two sites at least 18 hours prior to the meeting’s start time. Nashville Police Chief Jerry Schray reported to the investigating sheriff’s deputy that the Saturday meeting, and those previous to it, had been properly posted after the village contacted its attorney for guidance. Phone calls placed to the attorney’s office for confirmation of Schray’s contact were not returned by press time. The investigating deputy did learn from Village Trustee Michael Kenyon, however, that Kenyon had altered time changes to the document and then had reposted the notice on the village hall door. The police report states that during the interview by the sheriff deputy, Kenyon conceded that when White attempted to enter the meeting on Saturday and reported no meeting notice, that the notice may not have been there while he, Kenyon, was making changes to it. Kenyon also told the sheriff’s deputy that he had contemplated whether he should make the change and was not sure, when asked by the deputy, if the 18-hour minimum notice requirement should have re-started once the notice with the new times had been replaced. A copy of the sheriff’s deputy report has been forwarded to the Barry County Prosecutor’s office for review. three area schools, the Hastings High School Varsity Singers, Maple Valley Madrigals and the Thornapple Kellogg Choir. Special guest jazz singer Eyde Evans-Hyde was on hand as the vocal music clinician who worked with the students after their performances. Later that evening, Evans-Hyde and three high school groups headlined a stunning performance at the First United Methodist Church. Saturday, I served as the master of ceremonies at one of six venues where five high schools performed, followed by the special clinic. These clinics were a great opportunity for students and their directors to devote some time with a professional musician to troubleshoot common technical problems that could improve their style and appreciation of the music. The transformation was remarkable as the clinicians worked with each jazz band, concentrating on the rhythm and style for each selection. As clinicians worked with students by offering professional feedback, attendees could see each band’s improvement as they enhanced their performance abilities. With school districts across the state reducing arts programs, we should applaud our local arts council and all the volunteers who worked so hard to make the jazz festival a success by offering young musicians a chance to achieve a stronger appreciation of an art that will give them a lifetime of enjoyment. Are new wheelchair rules and regulations necessary? In keeping with a pledge he made during his campaign, Gov. Rick Snyder last week repealed a number of unnecessary rules and regulations that he characterized as outdated. At the same time in Hastings, the city council is moving to add a similarly unnecessary city ordinance pertaining to wheelchair ramps and $50 fees for mandatory inspections. Among the bills Snyder cut was a statute allowing farmers to register their farm names with the state for a fee. Another dealt with old rules associated with liquid measuring devices that conflict with other state and federal guidelines. One concerned regulations relating to labeling agricultural products under the 1961 seal of quality act that have become obsolete. The most controversial of bills was the bill that repealed the law requiring riders to wear a helmet while operating a motorcycle in the state. Proponents of the legislation suggest that it will increase tourism in the state if we allow motorcyclists to ride without a helmet, yet insurance companies warn of the dangers by riding without a helmet. As part of the change, new requirements call for an increase in insurance medical coverage along with additional training to obtain the special license required by drivers. The governor, as promised, was looking for ways to reduce the number of burdensome rules and regulations. Yet Hastings leaders are adding unnecessary fees and inspections of wheelchair ramps to residents who, in most cases, don’t need the What do you additional burden. It should be the responsibility of residents to determine whether a ramp is necessary or if it should be removed from their residence. According to City Manager Jeff Mansfield, residents are required to get a building permit for ramps just as they would a new deck or addition to their home. But, requiring an annual or semiannual inspection — at homeowner expense — is unnecessary. The governor said during his campaign that he wanted to reduce outdated rules and regulations for taxpayers whenever possible. According to Hastings Community Development Director John Hart, “the worst ramps are the ones that already exist.” The city should let residents to determine when a ramp is needed or not. City officials should focus on regulations that make us a better city, not that merely add another burdensome regulation frustrating its residents. Hastings was acknowledged as one of the top 100 cities in the nation just a few years ago — it didn’t get that designation due to the number of rules and regulations. The city received the acknowledgment because of sense of community as a whole. We must guard against needless rules and regulations that make us less attractive to residents in the future, or we may no longer be perceived as one of the best small towns in America. Fred Jacobs, vice president, J-Ad Graphics think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. Feel free to leave an opinion or comment. Last week’s question: A spike in oil lease deals throughout Barry County has some people worried that hydraulic fracturing procedures will be used to explore for oil and gas. Are you in favor of “fracking” to tap oil and gas reserves? 38% 62% Yes No For this week: Legislation has been introduced to repeal Michigan’s personal property tax on businesses which will dramatically reduce municipal and public school budgets. Are you in favor of this repeal? q q Yes No HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, April 19 — Pizza and Pages discusses Rachel Ward’s Numbers, 3:45 to 5 p.m.; Movie Memories celebrates Hollywood hunks with Cary Grant in “An Affair to Remember,” 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, April 20 — preschool story time brings in spring with stories about puddle weather, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; final round of teen video game tournament, 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, April 23 — computer class learns how to “Find My Stuff,” 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 24 — toddler story time enjoys the stories of Molly Bang, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.; open chess club, 6 to 8 p.m.; genealogy club, 6 to 8 p.m. Call the Hastings Public Library for more information, 269-945-4263. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, April 19, 2012 — Page 5 PETS, continued from page 1 Shelter, Wiggins pointed out that the shelter houses a surplus of animals that require general care, staff time and, in too many cases, euthanasia and cremation. Commissioners expressed concern about approved rescue organizations on a list presented by Wiggins, citing lack of assurances on proper care and of rescue operations that might hoard animals and then sell them at a profit. “You have to have a strict screening process,” replied Julie Palmatier, Animal Control/Shelter Advisory board member to a line of questioning from Commissioner Dan Parker. “There are some on the list that are not as good as others.” “But what have you done to know what is happening?” persisted Parker. “If each county has a different [screening] process, what’s ours? We don’t have a process.” Audience member Susan Smith, board president of Wishbone Pet Rescue, an all-volunteer group that assists the Allegan County Animal Shelter, briefly reviewed that group’s process, one that’s come in handy during the current rescue operation of more than 350 dogs from an Allegan County puppy mill. “We verify a rescue operation’s 501(c)3 status, we get references, we look at adoption contracts, determine if the animal has been spayed or neutered, gather personal references, and contact the animal shelter and local sheriff to see if there have been any complaints against the operation. “We do 10-day and 30-day followups,” concluded Smith. “I don’t know of a rescue operation that does not contact us when a pet has been adopted.” Houtman immediately suggested that Barry County use the Wishbone model as a template, and commissioners provided unanimous approval to move the resolution to a formal vote April 24. On the final issue regarding the reduction of license fees for adopters of non-neutered pets, audience member Pollyanne McKillop, program manager with the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, cited state law MCL 287.266 deeming the sale of licenses to non-neutered animals as illegal for animal shelters. “It’s not legal to sell a license for an unal- tered pet,” maintained McKillop, “but you can set up a refund system.” Reading from the same law, however, Commissioner Ben Geiger trumped that contention, saying that the law applied only to the 60 days previous to a fiscal year, which for Barry County begins July 1. “Yes, we can do it,” Geiger told commissioners who, with Sheriff Leaf participating, passed the recommendation on to next week’s board meeting by unanimous vote. In other action Tuesday, the board recommended for approval at its April 24 meeting resolutions: • To approve the project cost and special assessment roll for the Algonquin Lake dam maintenance and repair project. Cost to replace the dam, built in 1921, and its control structure is estimated to be $424,000 to be paid over a 10-year period from assessments placed on surrounding property. Construction time estimate has been placed at 90 days and will involve a one-lane State Road closure for three of those days. • To schedule a public hearing on proposed amendments to the Barry County Address Ordinance, allowing the county the authority to change addresses to avoid duplications. The request was presented by Central Dispatch Director Phyllis Fuller, who pointed out that similar address ranges on roads of the same name in one township and ZIP code create difficulties for emergency situations. • Allowing Historic Charlton Park to purchase a new utility vehicle, using funds from the county vehicle replacement fund to be repaid over a three-year period and avoiding the estimated $1,500 in interest and administrative charges of borrowing in the public market. • Approving a Farmland and Open Space Preservation Program request from Doug and Louisa Westendorp of Maple Grove Township. The Westendorps have previously placed additional property in the same PA 116 program. • To approve revisions to the Barry County Policy Regarding the Use of Information Technology Resources, adding “court employees” to the “Barry County employee” use language. When computer networks were recently combined with court employees, a Seasonal ambulance service contract for Gun Lake Song and dance to hit the Leason Sharpe stage with “Guys and Dolls” The musical “Guys and Dolls” will be performed by the Thornapple Players in the Barry Community Enrichment Center’s Leason Sharpe Hall April 26, 27, 28 and May 4 and 5 at 7 p.m. Sunday matinees April 29 and May 6 will be at 2 p.m. Production staff includes director Carol Satterly, music director Laura Soule, producer Norma Jean Acker, piano Mark Ramsey, set design Gary Cuyler, sound Rick Hemerling and house manager Carol Svihl. The cast includes Ken Smith, Danielle Brower, Michael Moray, Susie VanHorn, Joey Longstreet, Bethany Roderick, Doug Acker, Dale White, Terry Dennison, Eric Anderson, Mike Kasinsky, Jason Roper, Larry Winkler, John Texter, Jennifer Myers, Lori Beduhn, Hillary Bagley, Megan Morse, Lauren Kirwin, Angie Seeber, Kimberly Knoll Rodriquez, Evie Bromley, Kevin Moore, Cody Timm, Cheryl Swinkunas, Kathy Conklin, Janine Kasinsky, Dawn Furrow, Paula Watson, Kevin Moore, Terri Schray and Hannah Leonhardt. Music and lyrics by Frank Loesser. Inspired by the book from Jo Swerling and Abe Burrows. Tickets are $8 for adults, $6 for students and seniors. $5 tickets are available for the April 26 dress rehearsal. Leason Sharpe Hall is within the Barry Community Enrichment Center (former First Presbyterian Church of Hastings), located at 231 S. Broadway, Hastings. TEACHERS, continued from page 1 for the 2012-13 school year. Falcon said that all but two district in the O-K Conference calculate GPAs based on a weighted scale. Even though it is a violation of Robert’s Rules of Order and parliamentary procedures, Board President Kevin Beck asked a member of the audience what was done in his district. The audience member responded that his district has one similar to the proposed. • Heard from Falcon that Hastings Educational Support Personnel Association Secretary Sally Jaloszynski, who was on layoff status, has resigned. • Held a public hearing and first reading on a proposed new bullying policy. There were no comments or questions from the public. The new policy would require parents to be notified about the policy each year, and par- ents are to be notified of any reports of bullying, although the investigation process would remain confidential. The superintendent will be responsible for implementing the policy which specifies steps for reporting and who is responsible for receiving and investigating reports. The policy also allows the superintendent to establish programs and training aimed at bullying prevention and details how the district defines bullying. • Announced that its next monthly work session will be at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 15, and its next regular meeting will be held at 7:30 p.m. Monday, May 21. Both will be held in the multi-purpose room of Hastings Middle School, 232 W. Grand St. al to eliminate personal property tax. Because personal property tax revenue represents 4.2 percent of Barry County’s total taxable value and counties cannot continue to operate without such tax revenue, Barry County, through this resolution, urges the legislature and the governor to retain the tax until Michigan voters replace the revenues lost with a constitutional amendment. Commissioner Ben Geiger was the lone dissenting vote, suggesting that the personal property tax should be repealed because it discourages capital investment and because the tax revenue it generates has dropped by 40 percent. • To oppose Gov. Snyder’s county revenuesharing cuts and his proposal to participate in the Economic Vitality Incentive Program in order to receive revenue sharing. The county is scheduled for a nearly $300,000 revenue sharing cut under the proposal and will be required to participate in EVIP to receive any future revenue-sharing payments. Geiger cast the lone dissenting vote. Meeting to focus on oil and gas drilling Oil and gas companies have been looking for new leases to drill throughout Michigan, including in Barry County. Pierce Cedar Creek Institute will be holding a meeting Tuesday, May 1, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. to help participants understand where the oil and gas in wells comes from, how an oil well is developed, regulations that drillers are required to meet, environmental issues surrounding drilling, what is in an oil and gas lease, how residents can protect themselves and their property when signing an oil and gas lease. Speakers for the meeting will be Michael Shelton of the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Susan Harley of Clean Water Action and Curtis Talley of Michigan State University Extension. The meeting is free, but donations will be accepted to offset the costs of the event. Pierce Cedar Creek Institute is south of Hastings at 701 W. Cloverdale Road, 2 1/2 miles west of M-37 and 4 1/2 miles east of M-43. Pre-register by calling 269-721-4190. 06778683 mately two-four miles from most sites on the lake. Dave Middleton, director, Thornapple Township Emergency Services, said in his experience Saturdays and Sundays tended to draw the greatest number of calls for emergency medical services at the lake with the days before and immediately after a holiday generating the most traffic. There is room for flexibility in the contract so that if a particular weekend looked to generate more traffic on a Friday than a Saturday, the increased demand can be accommodated. The contract for $13,824 was approved at the meeting of the township board of trustees on April 12 and is funded by casino revenues distributed to the township by the Gun Lake Casino. employee-funded and involves no contributions from the county. • To approve a hybrid pension plan for new hires. In accordance with successive collective bargaining agreements with its bargain units, the county committed to the MERS Hybrid Program in which new employees receive a defined-benefit component with a 1.5 percent multiplier and a defined-contribution component in which employees may make additional contributions similar to a 401(k) program in the private sector. • To support a permanent replacement of lost revenue from Gov. Rick Snyder’s propos- CELL PHONE BOOSTER 06778835 by Fran Faverman Staff Writer Ambulance service for people using Gun Lake during the summer holiday season has just taken a forward step with approval by the Yankee Springs Township board of a contract to provide an ambulance on site at the Payne Lake Road fire station for 16 summer weekends beginning with the Memorial Day weekend through the Labor Day weekend in September. The extra service is in addition to that normally provided to the area. Supervisor Al McCrumb saying that present ambulance service providers have always responded as quickly as possible to calls for help. All present providers are approximately equally distant at about 11-13 miles from the lake. The Payne Lake fire station is approxi- universal usage agreement was needed. • To accept equalization values that, by state constitution, must be approved annually and no later than the April session of the board of commissioners. • To approve a second deferred compensation plan for county employees. Currently, Barry County offers such a plan through Comprehensive Financial Services of East Lansing. Recently, the Municipal Employees Retirement System has offered a qualified retirement program that, if approved by commissioners, would provide a second investment option for employees. Each plan is Licensed / Insured / Local Call Scott 517-290-5556 • 877-448-1548 IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV 06778483 FREE Consultation & Estimates! ALSO EGRESS WINDOWS / MOLD REMEDIATION TWO BROTHERS AND A TENT For All Your Tent Rental Needs Tables and chairs available. Change needed in prosecutor’s office To the editor: I too believe there is no justice in Barry County. We have read in the newspaper about how the prosecutor’s office does not get information o the defense attorneys in a timely manner, and now the state attorney general has taken over three Michael Terpening cases due to allegations of witness tampering. I do not worry about Julie Nakfoor Pratt Call: Dan McKinney 269-838-7057 or Tom McKinney 269-838-3842 being married to a police officer. What we need is a new prosecutor who will up hold the office with integrity, honesty, and is able to win the majority of cases she tries. We definitely need a chance in the Barry County prosecutor’s office, and that is why I will be voting for Julie Nakfoor Pratt. Barbara Townsend, Assyria Township 77566915 ® The Hastings Banner The Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Helen Mudry Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 06778692 Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • 77564841 John Jacobs �Page 6 — Thursday, April 19, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Mary Logan MUSKEGON, MI - Mary Logan, age 98, of Muskegon, met her Heavenly Father on Sunday April 15, 2012, at Brookhaven Nursing Home. She was preceded in death by her husband Raymond. Surviving are her three children, Luella and John Grooters of McCormick, S. Carolina, Barbara and John Stevens of Fruitport, and Linda and LeRoy Troxel of Sophia, NC; eight grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren and four great grandchildren and other step grandchildren. Mrs. Logan reposes at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home – Funeral services were held on Wednesday, April 18, 2012 with Dr. Bob Lanz officiating. Interment in Rosedale Cemetery. Contributions in her memory may be made to Cornerstone University. Worship Together… Area Obituaries Rex A. Ryno Clayton C. “Bud” Case Hazel (Conklin) Skidmore 77567077 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. CHURCH OF THE LIVING GOD A full gospel church. 1240 W. State Rd., Hastings. Pastor Doug Davis. 269-948-9740. Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study 6 p.m. Sunday School and Youth Group for all ages. Come and worship the Lord with us! . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. ORANGEVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH 6921 Marsh Rd., 2 miles south of Gun Lake, Plainwell. Phone 269664-4377. OrangevilleBaptist. org. Pastors Dan Bowman and Adam Parmenter. Sundays - 9:45--10:45 a.m. “Dealing With Your Past” March through May. March 25 - 6 p.m. “Messiah in the Passover’ Seder Meal. March 31 - 7 p.m. Orangeville Cafe. April 8 - 7:30 & 11 a.m. Easter Celebration. April 22-27 - Evangelist Will Rice. Children, teen and adult Sunday School classes; 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Worship; 5:30 p.m. Junior and Senior High Word of Life Clubs. Tuesday - 9 a.m. Men’s Prayer and Bible Study. Wednesday - 6:30 p.m. Pre-school through 6th grade Word of Life Gophers & Olympians. Prayer & Bible Study - 7 p.m. 6 p.m. Teen Word of Life. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Phone 269-721-8077. Minister Ryan Wieland 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Praise Worship Service; Noon alternate weekends Youth Group Tuesday. Covenant Prayer Group, Wednes-day 6:30 p.m., Choir Practice. Thursday 7 p.m. Praise Band Practice. 2nd and 4th Thursdays at 7 p.m. Christ’s Quilters. Friday 6:30 p.m., CPRChrist’s Plan for Recovery (meal served). For more information small groups, special evnts or if you have a prayer requst, call the church office and see postings on WEB site: www.countrychapel.umc.org. SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 or -517-852-1806. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 9:15 Contemporary Worship, 10:30 a.m. Refreshments, 11 a.m. Traditional Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Pastor of Senior Adults and Visitation, Don Brail. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. for children, youths and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Senior High Youth Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Mid-Week: 6:30-7:45 p.m. Pioneer Clubs, age 4th to 5th grade, and Junior High Youth Group, 6th-8th grade. Thursday: 10 a.m. Senior Adult Discussion and 11:30 a.m., lunch at Wendy’s. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Sunday, April 15 - Worship at 8 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. Holy Communion Every Sunday! April 15 - Evangelism Comm. & Constitution Task Force Meeting after 2nd Service; High School Youth Group at 6:30 p.m.; Men’s AA 7 p.m. April 16 - Pennock Hospice at 5 p.m.; Spiritual AA at 7 p.m.; Gracegram Deadline. April 17 - Congregation Council at 7 p.m. April 18 - Wordwatchers Bible Study at 10 a.m. April 19 - Clapper Kids Bell Choir at 3:45 p.m.; Grace Notes Bell Choir at 5:45 p.m.; Hare Raisers at 7 p.m.; Choir at 7:15 p.m. 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-9459414 or 945-2645, fax 269-9452698. Pastor Amy Luckey website http://www.discovergrace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; Sunday School for ALL Ages; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service; 6 p.m. Youth Group. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.first churchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot.com. Thursday 11:30 Women’s Brown Bag Bible Study; 6:30 p.m. Choir Rehearsal; 7:30 p.m. Thornapple Jazz Festival. Friday - 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday - 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday 4 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 5 p.m. Pickleball; 6:30 p.m. Financial Peace University. HASTINGS REFORMED CHURCH “A Historic Reformed Community.” Sunday morning services begin at 10 a.m. Meeting at the Barry County Commission on Aging building, 320 W. Woodlawn Ave., Hastings. Pastor: Peter Adams. 616-690-8609 padams@juno.com. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Fiberglass Products Lauer Family Funeral Homes 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 ELKHART, IN - Rex A. Ryno, 58, of Elkhart, passed away at 11:58 p.m. Saturday (April 14, 2012) at Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center in Mishawaka. He was born August 23, 1953 in Howard City, MI to John Henry and Marie (Sears) Ryno. Surviving is his companion Darcy Joiner of Elkhart; six children, Rex Wheeler Ryno of NC, Joshua (Amanda) Ryno of Hastings, Amy Lindsey of Wayland, Jason (Andrea) Seedorff of Goshen, IN, Brandon (Phetsamone) Seedorff, Cassandra Seedorff both of Elkhart, IN; 11 grandchildren and one brother, Walter “Punk” (Rita) Ryno of Evart. Also surviving are four sisters, Carolyn Tessman of Tustin, Vickie Waters of Howard City, Phyllis (Gene) Ax of Grand Rapids, Barbara (Roy) Cline of Jackson; and a brother-in-law, Don Kroll of Muskegon. He was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers and one sister. Rex enjoyed gardening, being outdoors and tinkering in his garage. He was a semi retired auto body repairman. Cremation will take place at Elkhart Cremation Services. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 3 p.m. Monday (April 23, 2012) at the Heckman Funeral Home in Howard City, MI. Elkhart Cremation Service is entrusted with arrangements. Charles D. McCarty Sr. HASTINGS, MI – Clayton C “Bud” Case, age 83, of Hastings passed away Monday, April 16, 2012 at Pennock Hospital. He was born January 30, 1929 in Hastings. He worked on the family farm in Lacey until he joined the military and served as sergeant in Germany during the Korean War. After his tour of service, he returned home to marry his fiancé Vivian Benton of Hastings December 6, 1953. Bud was a devoted husband and family man. Together he and Vivian built a beautiful life together and raised four children, Pam, Susan, Linda and Jerry in the same house they’ve lived in for 58 years. Bud worked as a timekeeper for the E.W. Bliss Company for 42 years until his retirement in 1990. During that time he also rode his bike or walked to work every day for each of those 42 years. They enjoyed an annual summer vacation traveling various places throughout the country with the car and pop-up camper. He served as scoutmaster for Boy Scout Troop 175 during the 1950s. He also worked as a clinical volunteer at Pennock Hospital for 12 years. If anyone loved the outdoors, it was Bud. Along with camping, he always enjoyed mowing lawn, tending to his vegetable garden and his beautiful roses.He also enjoyed just tinkering with stuff. Friends, family and pretty much anyone Bud came in contact with was subject to his abounding wit and sense of humor. As a hobby, Bud enjoyed doing needle punch and working with his new best friend a Dyson vacuum cleaner. Bud will be dearly missed by those he left behind, his loving wife, Vivian; daughters, Pam (Michael) Weyerman, Susan Dryer, Linda (Cary) Smith, Jerry (Nicky) Case; sister, Crystal Di Benedetto; grandchildren A J (Rachel) Weyerman, Danielle Dryer, Brandy Dryer, Kyle Smith and Zachary Smith. In accordance with Bud’s wishes, there will be no funeral service. Memorial contributions may be made to Pennock Hospital. Arrnagements entrusted to Daniels Funeral Home in Nashville. Please visit our website at www.danielsfuneralhome.net for further details. Hazel (Conklin) Skidmore went to be with the Lord on April 9, 2012 at Pennock Hospital in Hastings. She was born August 18, 1929 in Barry County. Hazel enjoyed an active life. She loved to sew, spending many hours creating one of a kind projects for her loved ones. Hazel always had a garden and was active at church. She also traveled and camped with her husband of more than 60 years, LaVern. They were blessed with many friends and had fun meeting them for meals out. Hazel was devoted to her family; always putting others needs before her own. Hazel is preceded in death by her parents, Leslie Conklin and Agnes (Ketchum) Conklin, as well as son, Gordon Skidmore. She is survived by her husband, LaVern Skidmore; daughter, Susan (Bradley) Garrison; son, Stephen (Kim) Skidmore; daughter, Barbara Skidmore; six grandchildren; six great grandchildren; brothers, Laurence (Dorothy) Conklin, Charles (Bobbie Sue) Conklin and Robert (Beverly) Conklin, and her poodle, Lucky. Cremation has taken place. Hazel’s memorial celebration will be held at Pleasantview Family Church, 2601 Lacey Rd., Dowling, MI 49050, at 1 p.m. Saturday, April 21, 2012 with a lunch following. Lauer Family Funeral Homes- Wren Chapel, 1401 N. Broadway in Hastings has been entrusted to care for the family. Please share a memory with Hazel’s family at www.lauerfh.com. FAMILY FUNERAL HOMES Alta L. Datish Janis D. Quada DOWLING, MI - Charles D. McCarty Sr., of Dowling, passed away April 13, 2012, at his home with his family at his bedside. Charles was born January 22, 1927, in Johnstown Township, the son of Harvey F. and Clarabell I. (Smith) McCarty. Charles was a 1944 graduate of Hastings High School and following graduation, he proudly served his country in World War II, in the U.S. Navy. A loyal employee of Kellogg’s, Charles retired after 37 years of service. While working at Kellogg’s he farmed on the family farm. Charles was a long time member of the Country Chapel United Methodist Church in Dowling. Charles enjoyed, hunting, bowling and even after he turned 70 years old, he still water skied. He was also former member of the Kiwanis Club of Lake Havasu City, Arizona; where he wintered. On March 13, 1965, he married Muriel (Rowden), who survives. Charles is also survived by children, Charles (Sherry) McCarty, Marlene (Jim) Francis, Alan (Marcia) McCarty, Sandra Kelley, Dennis (Barb) Freeland, Tracey Freeland, and Bob Hendershot; a brother, Jack L. McCarty; 14 grandchildren; 23 great grandchildren; two great great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Charles was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Mary Jane Jenks; and a grandson, Tyler McCarty. A funeral services was conducted Tuesday, April 17, 2012, at Country Chapel United Methodist Church in Dowling, Pastor Ryan Wieland, officiating. Burial took place in Banfield Cemetery. Memorial contributions to Barry Community Hospice will be appreciated. Please visit www.williams-goresfuneral.com to view and sign Charles' online guest book. Arrangements were made by WilliamsGores Funeral Home, Delton. WOODLAND, MI- Janis D. Quada, age 56 (29), of Woodland, passed away Sunday, April 8, 2012. She was born October 30, 1955 in Hastings, the daughter of Jesse and Mary (King) Mulford. Janis graduated from Lakewood High School in 1973 and was married to Paul Quada on December 2, 1988. Janis was preceded in death by her father, Jesse Mulford; brother, Robert Mulford, and beloved Magnum. Surviving is her husband, Paul; daughter, Elizabeth (Cory) Beard; sons, Brian Strazisar and Christopher (Jennifer) Strazisar; grandchildren, Skylar and Haylee Beard; mother, Mary Mulford; sisters, Deborah Mulford and Diane (Steve) Barnum; sister-in-law, Jeanie Mulford; and Moose, Gracie and Jasper. Funeral Services for Janis were conducted on Thursday, April 12, 2012 at Koops Funeral Chapel – Lake Odessa. Private Interment Woodland Memorial Park. To share a memory of Janis, please visit www.koopsfc.com. = DELTON, MI - Alta L. Datish, of Delton, age 62, passed away April 14, 2012, at Rose Arbor in Kalamazoo. Alta was born February 10, 1950, the daughter of Aldo and Lawave (Dodge) Rugg. Alta was a 1968 graduate of Delton Kellogg High School. Alta worked for over 26 years at Borgess Medical Center in the medical records department. On April 14, 1993 she married Michael J. Datish who survives. Alta is also survived by a son, Robert Welsh; a daughter, Chris Christiansen; a brother, Lloyd Rugg; sisters, Rhoda Roe, Naomi Bailey, Ardith Rugg and Harriet Rugg; grandchildren, Ashley, Amber, Nick and Andrew; and several nieces and nephews. Alta was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Susie Gay; brothers, Bud and Melford Rugg, Victor and Vern Green. A funeral service will be held at the Williams-Gores Funeral Home in Delton, on Thursday, April 19, 2012, 11 a.m., with Pastor Roger Abels, officiating. Cremation will follow the service and burial will take place in Fort Custer National Cemetery. Memorial contributions to her grandchildren will be appreciated. Please visit www.williams-goresfuneral.com to view and sign Alta’s online guest book. �Area Obituaries Gregory Michael Bergeron PRESCOTT, AZ - Gregory Michael Bergeron passed away unexpectedly on April 12, 2012. Greg was born in Steven’s Point, WI on October 30, 1984. He grew up into a handsome young man who was able to put a smile on the face of anyone he met. Greg was full of laughter, love and adventure. He cherished his friends and family. Greg was a guy larger than life. Wherever he went and whatever he did his presence was known. Greg resided in Prescott, Arizona where he fought a hard battle to overcome his addictions, embraced the program of recovery and succeeded, with 18 months of clean time when he passed away. He was looked up to in Arizona’s Recovery Community where he was employed by New Freedom House and Clean Adventures. Greg made it his purpose to help others achieve recovery, and was a mentor, friend and hero to many young men who went through the rehabilitation process. Greg is survived by his daughter, Sky; parents, Terry(John) Bogues, Mike (Janie) Bergeron; brothers, John, Matthew, Chad, Zach and sisters, Jamie, Isobelle and Jenna. His family is so proud of him, and though heartsick at his passing, forever grateful that he fought the good fight and came out a better man. Services for our Greg will be Friday, April 20, 2012; 3-6 p.m. visitation; 6 p.m. Eulogy service at Becker-Ritter Funeral Home, 14075 West North Avenue, Brookfield, WI 53005. In lieu of flowers, donations to Wilderness Quest Recovery Program in Greg’s honor would be appreciated. Memorials can also be sent to Greg Bergeron Memorial, c/o Barry Community Foundation, 231 South Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. David H. Settles Family and friends, please join us for a celebration of David’s life and disposition of his remains on Saturday, May 5, 2012 at 11 a.m. at Riverside Cemetery in Hastings. The service will be led by the Rev. Mark Engle. A luncheon will follow at the Elks Club on Woodlawn Ave. Jan Replogle Please join us for a memorial celebration to honor Jan Replogle, our amazing wife and mother. We have been mourning this horrible loss but are rejoicing in the many wonderful memories we will have forever. She touched so many people in so many ways with her outspoken and caring demeanor, we are looking forward to seeing all of you. We invite all of her friends and family to join us in celebrating her life and share your memories with us on April 21, 2012 at the Hope Township Hall from 11am to 4pm. We will have a caterer providing food and drinks so please come spend some time with us to help honor Jan. The Hope Township Hall is between Shultz Rd. and Head Lake Rd. on M-43. A small service will also be taking place at Fort Custer National Cemetery at 15501 Dickman Rd. in Augusta on April 26, 2012 at 2:30pm. The Hastings Banner — Thursday, April 19, 2012 — Page 7 Social News Harrises to celebrate 30th wedding anniversary The family of Gary and Lydia would like to congratulate them on 30 years of marriage on April 20, 2012. Together they raised three children and three grandchildren. We would like to wish them many more years to come – Bob and Debbie, Lydia and Staphanie, Leslie and Rusty, Tina and Terry. The family will be holding a private get-together in celebration. Frey-Elliott wed BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY by Gerald Stein Bidittle -- The Bridge to Bridge: A Bidding and Trick-Taking Card and Board Game Audience: 2-4 Players Ages 7+ to Adults Purpose: Teaches trick-taking and bidding techniques to younger players using a board game layout as preparation for entry into the world of bridge Available at: www.bidittle.com <http://www.bidittle.com> for about $25.00 Today’s column features a review of a game called Bidittle we found at an American Contract Bridge League tournament a few years ago. Advertised as a board game with tokens and cards, this item quickly caught the grandparent-eye in both of us. The vendor was enthusiastically enlivened to see grandparents with money hovering over his wares. He quickly pointed out the advantages of having a game like Bidittle in our home when the grandchildren come over for a visit and want to do something different. The teachers-in-us both saw this as a way to teach our grandchildren the wonderful opportunities of learning to play bridge without all of the technical aspects that can quickly lose little ones’ attention. Set up as a board game, Bidittle offers two games for the price of one. For younger players, and while the board directions suggest an age of 10+, our grandchildren of five and seven had little difficulty learning the basics on the easier of the two sides of the game. Two decks of cards are included as in the game of bridge, but here the differences quickly become evident. Only seven cards are dealt to each player. Seven cards are just the right number of cards for little hands to hold, and the creators of this game have recognized that in little hands 13 cards are highly unmanageable. With seven cards, even our five-year-old granddaughter can keep her cards in order. As a player and a teacher in Bidittle, it is important to let the younger players know that they are on their way to playing bridge like adults do. This seems to intrigue them and encourages them to learn the game. Organizing cards into the four suits is a fun activity, and giving the correct names of the suits is step number one. Telling the grandchildren that the suits are in alphabetical order (Club, Diamonds, Hearts, and Spades) makes this an easy first lesson. Alternating red and black cards next helps them keep the suits separate. The bidding is a simple bidding process of one through seven, the same number of cards as in their hands. The key to bidding is to determine how many cards there are in each suit. If there are at least three cards in one suit, then the player has to make a judgment call and can make a bid of that suit. Making a bid is done by using colored markers or tokens for each player, and the bidder places a token on the number on the board that corresponds to the number of tricks that she thinks she can take with her hand. At first, Bidittle is just an individual bidding and trick-taking game, but before long partnerships develop, and players become very competitive in bidding and playing as in real bridge. Bidding continues, with additional tokens being placed on the board from one all the way to six (small slam) and seven (grand slam). As in bridge, the bidding ends when there are the requisite number of passes. The play of the hand then begins, and the quick round of playing is reminiscent of euchre with leads, wins, and losses. A pad of score sheets (included) allows each player to know the bid and how well the play of the hand went. Children like the fast pace of Bidittle. As the children grow older and more proficient playing Bidittle, additional concepts are added to make the bidding and the play of the hand even more comparable to bridge. Using the High Card Points of four for an Ace, three for a King, two for a Queen, and one for a Jack, the children soon learn how to count the points in their hand for even better bidding skills. Once the basics of Bidittle have been mastered, the board can be flipped over to begin The Bridge to Bridge with all of the bridge contract scoring concepts included right in the center of the board. No longer using the seven cards but a full deck of 52 cards, the players have now progressed to using total points and partnerships to reach part score, game, small slam or grand slam status. Rebids, no trump bids, and doubling are all included in a fun and entertaining way. If you want to pass on your love of bridge to others, especially to your children and grandchildren, consider going to the Bidittle website and investigate further the fun you will have showing them a new game called Bidittle, the bidding and trick-taking board game. ***** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) Last call: -- A nine-week class begins in Battle Creek for intermediate and advanced beginner players on Monday, April 23. -- A Wednesday morning class for beginner and intermediate players begins April 25 at the KCC Fehsenfeld Center in Hastings on April 25. Call the ILR office at 269-948-9500 erxt. 2804 for more information on both classes. You will find as you look back upon your life that the moments when you have truly lived are the moments when you have found and shared the true spirit of love. We are delighted to announce our marriage, Michael Kenneth Frey and Kelly Kay Elliott on April 6, 2012 in Jamestown, Tenn. on Good Friday (in memory of the groom’s loving mother, Rhonda Duncan). We wish to share our joy with you, our friends and family. To give thanks to those who made our wedding day so very special, Garrett Elliott, Gary and Connie Lynn, Ron and Mickey Dawson and Howard and Gini Rich. And may God bless those who have given to us their unconditional love and support. Jean Anderson will celebrate her 90th birthday with an open house on Saturday, April 28th from 1 to 4 p.m. at Pennock Village Community Room, 422 Oak Court. Serving cake, coffee and punch. No gifts please. Barry County Democrats Marriage meet April 20 Licenses Scott Gerald Corrion, Hastings Christine Joy Shipley, Hastings. Robert John Ellis, Hickory Corners Janet Lawave Ellis, Hickory Corners. Brandon Scott Lawrence, Delton Beverly Grace Simpson, Delton. Zackary Scott Woodman, Woodland Laura Marie Kirschensteiner, Ovid. and and and and Barry County Democrats will host an areawide team meeting Friday, April 20, at 6:45 p.m. The focus will be on Organizing for America, the grassroots effort to re-elect President Barack Obama. Anyone who is interested is invited to attend, and there is no charge. The next meeting will take place Saturday, May 5, at 2 p.m. For location and other information, call 269-945-8832, or go towww.facebook.com/barry>county democrats. Ray L. Girrbach Owner/Director 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 • 269-945-3252 Serving Hastings, Barry County and Surrounding Communities for 45 years •Traditional and Cremation Services •Pre-Planning Services •Large Parking Lot - Handicap Accessible •Serving All Faiths •Pre-arrangement Transfers Accepted Family Owned and Operated www.girrbachfuneralhome.net 06778686 06778677 07597280 06778680 Jean Anderson to celebrate 90th birthday 06778674 06778689 �Page 8 — Thursday, April 19, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Community groups to host Healthy Kids Day Several community organizations will be hosting a free event Saturday, April 28, for children and their families to promote getting active. “Barry County ranks 70th in obesity in the state of Michigan, and, as community organizations, we feel a responsibility to provide activities that can help reverse this trend for our citizens,” said Tom Wilt, executive director of the YMCA of Barry County. “Being overweight greatly impacts many things, such as quality of life, risk of diabetes and so much more.” Wilt said the event will start at 10 a.m. behind Central Elementary in Hastings and children with their parents will participate in a “find it” walk or run. Each family will walk or run to six different stations, he said, adding that maps will be provided. “Each station will be hosted by a group who will lead a short exercise for the participants, and once the exercise has been completed, the family will move to the next site.” The short exercises at each station will be hosted by 4-H, Boy Scouts, Anne’s Health Food, Yoga by Diana, Boot Camp by Tina and Camp Algonquin staff. Each participant will be given a card to be marked at each station, and when the family returns to Central Elementary, they will turn their cards in for prize drawings. “We anticipate this activity to take between one and two hours, depending on how quickly the family wants to move,” said Wilt. “This is not a race; it is to promote getting active as a family.” From 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. there will be a health fair for parents and games for children in the field at the school. The health fair will be presented by Pennock Health Services, Barry-Eaton District Health Department, MSU Extension Nutritionist, Hastings Area Schools, Barry Great Start Collaborative and YMCA. The Battle Creek Blaze football players will lead games and activities, and disc golf players will teach children that game. Each family will receive a bag of health information and small gifts in addition to drawings for prizes. Even though the event is free, participants are required to register which can be done the day of the event from 9:30 to 10 a.m., or register online at www.ymcaofbarrycounty.org. Lakewood choral group planning concert Sunday Now in its 27th year, the Lakewood Area Choral Society will present its inaugural concert of the season at the Sunfield United Brethren Church, 8436 W. Grand Ledge Highway (M-43), Sunfield, Sunday, April 22, at 3 p.m. This benefit concert is being presented for the Sunfield United Brethren Church in appreciation for the past five years that the church has provided the choir with rehearsal space in the sanctuary. With many residents of the choral society living in and around the Hastings and Lakewood areas, this venue provides local residents an opportunity to hear the 110-voice semi-professional adult choir, which is directed by Dr. Robert C. Oster. The choral society will perform several sacred selections, including, “Abide With Me,” “Lift High the Cross,” “Sea and Shore,” “Deep River,” “Walk Together Children,” “Song of Exaltation,” “This House and Home,” “Fairest Lord Jesus,” “Spirit of God Descend Upon My Heart,” “It Is Well With My Soul,” “He Never Failed Me Yet” and “Old Irish Blessing.” Solo performances include Karin Raymond singing “O Come to My Heart, Lord Jesus,” Celia Demond, accompanist; Dan Eggleston singing “Sorrow Mixed with Light;” and, Larry Wait playing flugelhorn, “Be Thou My Vision,” Celia Demond, accompanist. The What Four Quartet of Lisa Bondarenko, Lisa Sterkenburg, Nola Payne and Anna Williams will sing “I Am a Woman.” The public is invited to attend. Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of EDWARD JONES Earth Day lessons can apply to investors, too April 22 is Earth Day. Started in 1970 by Senator Gaylord Nelson, Earth Day is designed to create awareness of the Earth’s environment and to encourage conservation efforts. If you and your family participate in Earth Day events, such as helping clean up a local park or taking materials to a recycling center, you know the benefits of doing your part to improve your surroundings. But are you doing everything you can to upgrade your environment for investing? Actually, as an investor, you can learn a lot from the lessons of Earth Day. Here are just a few ideas: • Diversify. If you’re familiar with Earth Day, you know that it involves multiple activities, including educational programs and doit-now action steps. This variety is necessary because protecting our environment is a complex challenge. Meeting your short- and longterm investment goals can be challenging, too, but you’ll have a better chance of success by diversifying your investment dollars across a range of vehicles, such as stocks, bonds, government securities and certificates of deposit (CDs). Diversification can help reduce the impact of volatility on your portfolio — and high volatility can be an obstacle for some people trying to follow an investment strategy. (Keep in mind, though, that diversification, by itself, cannot guarantee a profit or protect against loss.) • Seek growth opportunities. Some people plant trees on Earth Day, hoping to watch them grow over the years. As an investor, you, too, need to plant “seeds” today in the hopes of growth in the future. That means, among other things, that when you purchase growth-oriented investments for the long term, you need to try to stick with them and not “uproot” them after short-term declines in price. • Develop good habits. If you attend an Earth Day program, you will learn about many eco-friendly habits you can develop, from using energy-efficient light bulbs to recycling old computers and other electronic devices. To invest successfully, it's important to develop good habits, such as staying invested in all types of markets, seeking taxadvantaged investments and reviewing your portfolio regularly to make sure it’s still appropriate for your risk tolerance, time horizon and long-term objectives. • Avoid “toxins.” At some Earth Day events, you can learn about “green” substitutes for toxic chemicals in common household cleaners. When you invest, you may also want to avoid “toxins” — or at least “toxic” behaviors, such as chasing after “hot” stocks that are inappropriate for your needs or trading so frequently that you run up big fees, commissions and taxes. • Think long term. Above all else, Earth Day is a reminder to us that we all want to leave a healthy planet to future generations — which means we need to make moves that are beneficial for the environment over the long term. When you invest, you also need to focus on the future. That means following a long-term investment strategy and not getting sidetracked by short-term events, such as political crises and economic downturns. Earth Day comes once a year, but its lessons can have a lasting impact on our environment. When you apply these same lessons to your own investment environment, you may be able to achieve some healthy results. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 31.61 +.66 AT&T 30.89 +.76 BP PLC 43.27 +.97 CMS Energy Corp 21.98 +.36 Coca-Cola Co 73.95 +1.93 Eaton 47.60 +1.15 Family Dollar Stores 64.70 +1.85 Fifth Third Bancorp 14.36 +.46 Flowserve CP 114.20 +4.96 Ford Motor Co. 11.91 +.12 General Mills 39.12 +.61 General Motors 24.04 +.33 Intel Corp. 28.47 +1.02 Kellogg Co. 53.78 +.85 McDonald’s Corp 97.11 -.56 Pfizer Inc. 22.31 +.33 Ralcorp 74.24 +.74 Sears Holding 57.38 -1.85 Spartan Motors 4.74 +.10 Spartan Stores 18.23 +.71 Stryker 54.89 +1.78 TCF Financial 11.17 +.31 Walmart Stores 61.87 +1.94 Gold $1,650.33 -7.92 Silver $31.70 -.04 Dow Jones Average 13,116 +401 Volume on NYSE 664M -252M RN/LPN Private Duty Immediate Openings Nashville, Marshall, Springport, Jackson Various Shifts Available Trach and Vent Experience Preferred Please email resume to: recruiter@optimalstaffing.com or fax to: 517-394-7716 07597900 The Congregation of Ancient plants make a comeback Freeport Baptist Church Would like to invite Our community, friends & family to the R e t i re m e n t Celebration Party Rev. Walter Winebrenner for Saturday, April 21st, 2012 2-5 pm at Ever After Banquet Hall 1230 N. Michigan Ave. Hastings, MI 49058 Cake & punch provided, no gifts please 06778634 07596968 07597947 He a ve n On E a r t h L andscapes proudly present... Book Your Spring Clean-Up & Landscaping Projects NOW. FREE Landscaping Estimates 5715 South M-66, Nashville Friday-Saturday-Sunday April 27, 28, May 4, 5 at 7:00 PM April 29 & May 6 at 2:00 PM Dress Rehearsal - Thursday, April 26 FERTILOME Open to the public - All Seats $5.00 $ 2 Barry Community Enrichment Center (Leason Sharpe Hall) 231 South Broadway, Hastings Tickets: Adults - $8, Children, Students & Seniors - $6 Tickets available at the door and at Progressive Graphics. There is limited seating off with coupon exp. 4/28/12 WE DELIVER! 06779294 Contact Chris at 517-749-5218 Perennial of the Week Baptisa $ 95 Sale 4 was 6.95 $ MULCHES 4 Colors & Cedar Available Hangin Baskets g & Annuals Flowering Trees, Fruit Trees & Fruit Plants – Available – Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8:30 - 6:00; Sat. 8:30 - 5:00 EwingLandscaping@yahoo.com 06778513 5715 South M-66, Nashville • 517-852-1864 by Dr. E. Kirsten Peters The ice age is my favorite bit of Earth history, a time when mammoths, giant beavers and saber-tooth tigers roamed the world. I was so impressed by the ice age when I was a child, reading about it in the school library, that I recognized a book I had studied decades later when I stumbled across it as an adult. Being devoted to books, I happily bought a copy and perused it immediately. Imagine my pleasure, then, about the recent news that an ice age flowering plant some 32,000 years old has been regenerated by scientists and brought back to life. The tale revolves around an industrious Pleistocene rodent in Siberia that took fruit from a plant botanists call Silene stenophylla and buried it deep underground. The rodent’s burrow was sealed shut by windblown dirt. The animal’s treasure trove was frozen into the permafrost and remained frozen as the millennia unfolded. Recently, scientists from the Russian Academy of Science research institute in Pushchino took a scraping of the fruit and nurtured it in a bath of nutrients. Their efforts were rewarded when the plant not only grew, but produced healthy seeds that sprouted. Coming back to life is no small feat for an organism that was frozen for 32 millennia. “It is remarkable that under deep freeze, fruit tissues ... can remain viable for such a long time,” said Jane Shen-Miller, a biologist at UCLA. Quoted in Science News, she went on to say, “This is like regenerating a dinosaur from tissues of an ancient egg.” Well, it’s not exactly like that, but it’s understandable scientists are excited by the result coaxed from the frozen fruit of Silene stenophylla. When the little Siberian plant grew up, by the way, it showed signs it is mildly different from modern Silene stenophylla. Its petals are narrower and closer together than today’s examples of the plant. So, either the species has changed a bit in the past 32,000 years, or perhaps, what the ancient rodent buried might have been a related, but different species of a plant that has since gone extinct. The Siberian plant isn’t the only botanical specimen that’s been impressively reborn. A few years ago, Israeli researchers interested in alternative medicine helped coax a 2,000 year-old date palm into sprouting. The Judean date palm was used in ancient times for food, shelter and more. There are references to the plant in the Bible and the Koran. But the plant disappeared from the region around the year 500 A.D. The ancient date palm seed came from an excavation of Masada. You might remember that locality as the ancient fortress where Jews held off Romans in a long siege and finally killed themselves rather than surrender. The fortress fell in the year 73 A.D., and the radiocarbon date of the palm seed dates the material to about 2,000 years ago. As National Geographic reported, a Hebrew University archeologist took the samples of the date palm seeds from the ruins of Masada. For years, the seeds sat in the desk drawer of a botanical archeologist at Bar-Ilan University in Tel Aviv. Then the seeds were transferred to a center for natural medicine — because date palms were once used for medicinal purposes. From there, the increasingly well-traveled seeds went to desert agricultural expert Elaine Solowey. She soaked the seeds in warm water, bathed them in nutrients and planted them in soil. One of the seeds spouted and a plant nicknamed ‘Methuselah’ came into the world. To me, the resurrection of ancient botanical material is good news for the work of the Svalbard Global Seed Vault in Norway. That’s the institution in which scientists try to preserve seeds from species of plants from all around the world. The idea is to keep botanical species going, come what may, in terms of variables such as climate change that could wipe out a plant. Both the Methuselah date palm and the plant buried long ago by the Siberian rodent give me hope that the Svalbard effort will keep viable materials preserved for a very long time, indeed. Dr. E. Kirsten Peters, a native of the rural Northwest, was trained as a geologist at Princeton and Harvard universities. Follow her online at rockdoc.wsu.edu and on Twitter @RockDocWSU. This column is a service of the College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences at Washington State University. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, April 19, 2012 — Page 9 TOWNSHIP OF PRAIRIEVILLE BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF PRAIRIEVILLE, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the following is a summary of Ordinance No. 143, which was adopted by the Prairieville Township Board at a regular meeting held on April 11, 2012. AMENDMENT TO TABLE OF CONTENTS. This section amends the Table SECTION I. of Contents of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance so as to change the names of the “R-1”, “R-2”, “R-4” and “R-5” zoning districts and to add reference to a new “AP” Agricultural Preservation District. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 3.1. This section amends Section 3.1 of the SECTION II. Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance so as to add definitions of “Agricultural Production” and “Foster care (small group) facility”; to change the definitions of “Family day care home” and “Group day care home” to refer to “Family child care home” and “Group child care home”; and to amend the definitions of “Agricultural” and “Farm”. Introducing the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz Lucky Farmers – The Melvin Smith family, who live on the family homestead which was pictured in the third Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz carried in last week’s Banner, pose with “Bond Haven Sovereign Revelation 234974C,” a prized Holstein bull that was born in Ontario, Canada, April 21, 1951, and purchased from C.J. Cerswell last December. That’s Ben Smith on the left, then Marvin, Mrs. Smith and Melvin. The collie is “Pepi” who wasn’t too eager to pose. – Photo by Barth. This is the second part of a series reprinting the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz promotion that ran in the Banner 60 years ago. An unidentified aerial photo of an area farm was pictured in the Banner each week, from Jan. 24 to July 17,1952, and the owners of the mystery farms were featured in the paper the following week. ***** Hastings Banner, Jan. 31, 1952 Second ‘Lucky Farmer’ photo pictured family homestead Aerial photographers who took the second picture used in The Banner’s Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz snapped a farm which has been in one family over 40 years. It is the John W. Cook farm and Mr. and Mrs. Cook were elated to see their establishment pictured in last week’s Banner. As winners of the photo quiz for last week, they received 35 gift certificates valued at $1 each from the 35 Barry County merchants who have joined The Banner in sponsoring the interesting contest, and also a leatherbound photograph of their farm. As the week before, when Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Marble’s farm was pictured when the contest opened, the winners received notice long before the rural mail carrier delivered their copy of The Banner. Thursday morning, the Cooks received a call telling them that their farm was pictured in the paper, and when their copy of The Banner arrived, they identified it at a glance. Cook has lived on the same farm for about 43 years, his parents moving onto the place about 1908. Mr. and Mrs. George Cook – his mother now lives at Middleville – moved here from Allegan County. John was born there on Aug. 12, 1898. They first farmed the L.J. Matthews place for a year and then bought the present Cook establishment. In addition to the 90 original acres, John has added 34 acres on the east and 75 acres on the west. The farm is located in Carlton Township northwest of here. The Cooks operate a dairy farm and currently are milking 12 of their herd of 25 cattle. They were married in a double ceremony in their present home which has been modernized. Mrs. Cook is the former Doris McBane, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Lawtie McBane. The other couple married at the same time on July 5, 1927, was John’s younger brother, Hart, who married Ollie Engle. They have five children, Richard, 20, who is scheduled for military duty in the not too distant future; John E., 19; Patsy, 14; Marie, 12; and Roger, 7. ***** Hastings Banner, Feb. 7, 1952Fourth generation operating Banner’s third ‘lucky farm’ The third farm pictured in the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz sponsored by The Banner and 35 Barry County merchants, is one wellknown to hundreds of residents who have known the family personally or who have admired the place while traveling M-43 southwest of Hastings. It is the Smith farm, now owned by the fourth generation of Smiths who have tilled the land and established outstanding reputations for their abilities. The farm has a long record, and Mrs. Marie Smith, wife of Melvin, who is the fourth generation to own the place, has searched out the records of the land. CITY OF HASTINGS On July 14, 1851, Samuel Towers located the southwest REQUEST FOR BIDS of the northwest quarE THORN ST WATER MAIN IMPROVEMENTS quarter ter of Section 27 in Township The City of Hastings, Michigan is soliciting bids to bore and 3N R 9W. The patent was jack approximately 24 feet of steel casing pipe under Butler applied for and it was “grantCreek for the placement of an 8 inch water main. ed” by Franklin Pierce, presiComplete specifications are available at City Hall, 201 East dent of the United States, on State Street, Hastings. Questions may be addressed to Tim April 15, 1853, according to Girrbach, Director of Public Services, at 269.945.2468. the Act of Congress, the proBids will be received at the office of the City vision for the sale of Public Clerk/Treasurer, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan Land. until 9:00 AM on Tuesday, May 8, 2012 at which time they shall be opened and publicly read aloud. Samuel Towers, was a The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all strange man and was practibids, to waive any irregularities in the bid proposals, and to cally blind, Mrs. Smith award the bid as deemed to be in the City’s best interest, price learned. He spent much of his and other factors considered. Prospective bidders will be time in the lobby of the hotel required to provide satisfactory evidence of successful comin Hastings, and she heard the pletion of work similar to that contained within the bid packfollowing account of his purage to be considered eligible to perform this work. All bids chasing the land. must be clearly marked on the outside of the submittal pack“There were two men, who age “Sealed Bid – East Thorn Street Water Main were probably land speculaImprovements”. Tim Girrbach tors, talking about buying this Director of Public Services land as it would be on the road 77567209 Second Lucky Farmer – John W. Cook, whose farm was the second pictured in the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz sponsored by The Banner and 35 Barry merchants, is pictured on his tractor talking with his son, Richard, 20. They were snapped Saturday by Leo Barth of Barth Studio while doing a winter chore – hauling fertilizer. The Cooks operate a dairy farm. The third aerial photograph in the contest is carried on Page 8, Section 2 of today’s Banner. between Hastings and Kalamazoo and would be a good investment. “The two men paid no attention to the nearly blind man listening to their conversation. However, Towers decided this might be as good an investment for him as for the speculators. The story goes that he started for Kalamazoo and walked all night and was at the land office the next day.” The fact that Towers bought not only the land where the Smith farm is but also the land of neighboring farms and that he personally never cleared or occupied any of the land tends to substantiate the truth of the account. Although the patent was applied for in 1853, it was not received until Nov. 16, 1864. It was at that time that he was selling the land to Abraham Billings Smith. Smith bought the land Nov. 23, 1864, for $1,550. Smith was known better as just “Billings.” His father was a Congregational minister somewhere in New England. According to M.L. Cook, [editor of the Banner in 1952] Billings Smith was a brilliant, eloquent man with a wonderful voice. He had three sons, one who died in infancy, Frank and Afton. When Afton grew up, he wanted to go west but Billings wanted his family to stay together, so told them he would divide his land between the two boys and start them farming. What the buildings were when Billings owned the land is now known, except that there was a log barn north of where the present buildings are located. When he divided the land, Afton received the north 20 acres, Frank the south 20. The transaction was recorded Sept. 29, 1870. Afton built the house at the location on which the Goodwill dairy is not located, for his bride sometime between 1870 and 1875. Frank also built a house and barn on the adjoining property. The barn has since been moved, and the house is used as a tenant house. The Frank Smith property was later sold to Afton Smith or his heirs. Afton built the first section of the barn which is still in use. It was a ground floor barn. Later it was raised, a basement put under and a wing built to the north. In 1929, the large wing to the west was built. The house has been remodeled and improved from time to time, but it is still the original frame. Afton married a girl from Massachusetts and to them were born one son and two daughters. His first wife died, and to his second marriage was born another son and daughter. The second wife also died, and he married for the third time. Afton spent his life on the farm started for him by his father. He bought additional land and made a good living. He died in 1926. Fred Smith, with his wife and two sons, continued farming and enlarged the place. At the present time, there are about 105 acres with the original 40 as the nucleus. In 1935 Fred and Elda Smith moved into Hastings, with his younger son, Melvin, carrying on. In 1949, believing there was a better market for milk, the dairy was built. It is owned jointly between Fred, Melvin and Gerald Smith. They began processing and delivering milk produced on the farm in Hastings and adjoining territory. In 1948, the dairy was leased to two other men. Melvin, with his brother who lives on another farm, and with help from his parents, continues to operate the farm and in addition work about 500 acres owned by neighbors. There are about 125 head of purebred Holstein cattle. The fifth generation of Smiths – Ben and Marvin – are now living with their parents in the original homestead. Call anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads 269-945-9554 AMENDMENT OF SECTION 4.2. This section amends Section 4.2 of the SECTION III. Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to lot-building relationships so as to add reference to the “AP” zoning district. SECTION IV. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 4.13-2. This section amends Section 4.13-2 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to the types of developments requiring site plan review. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 4.13-3. This section amends Section 4.13-3 of SECTION V. the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to application requirements for site plan review. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 4.13-4. This section amends Section 4.13-4 of SECTION VI. the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to the standards for site plan review approval. SECTION VII. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 4.17. This section amends subsection A of Section 4.17 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to parking and loading spaces so as to change subpart 29 to refer to “Group child care homes”. SECTION VIII. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 4.18. This section amends subsection M of Section 4.18 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to signs so as to add reference to the “AP” zoning district. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 4.19. This section amends Section 4.19 of the SECTION IX. Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to home occupations so as to, among other changes, reference home occupations as a permitted use and modify the provisions for approval and revocation of approval for home occupations. SECTION X. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 4.20. This section amends Section 4.20 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to residential accessory buildings. SECTION XI. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 4.25. This section amends subsection B of Section 4.25 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to the keeping of animals so as to add provision for the keeping of non-household type animals in unplatted areas in the “AP” Agricultural Preservation District. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 4.33. This section amends Section 4.33 of the SECTION XII. Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance so as to establish new standards for private roads. SECTION XIII. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 4.34. This section amends Section 4.34 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to divisions of land so as to eliminate the reference to Section 4.33 and add in its place the phrase “except where otherwise permitted by this Ordinance”. SECTION XIV. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 4.39. This section amends Section 4.39 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to child care facilities so as to change the references therein to “family day care homes” and “group day care home” to, respectively, “family child care homes” and “group child care home”. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 4.41. This section amends the Schedule of Lot, Yard, SECTION XV. and Area Requirements in Section 4.41 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance with respect to the “AP” and “R-4” zoning districts. SECTION XVI. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 5.0. This section amends Section 5.0 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance so as to modify the names of some of the zoning districts referenced therein and to add reference to the “AP” Agricultural Preservation District. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 5.1. This section amends Section 5.1 of the Prairieville SECTION XVII. Township Zoning Ordinance so as to modify the names of some of the zoning districts referenced therein. SECTION XVIII. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 8.1. This section amends Section 8.1 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to Open Space Preservation Developments so as to add reference to the “AP” district. SECTION XIX. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 6.0. This section amends Section 6.0 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance so as to change the name of the “R-1” zoning district to the “R-1” Low Density Residential District and to change the various permitted uses and special land uses allowed in this zoning district. These changes include, but are not limited to, adding provisions for home occupations and foster care (small group) facilities as permitted uses and for cluster land developments as a special land use. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 6.1. This section amends Section 6.1 of the Prairieville SECTION XX. Township Zoning Ordinance so as to change the name of the “R-2” zoning district to the “R-2” Low Density Residential District and to change the various permitted uses and special land uses allowed in this zoning classification. These changes include, but are not limited to, adding provisions for home occupations and foster care (small group) facilities as permitted uses and for publicly owned and operated buildings and uses as a special land use. These amendments also include changes pertaining to guest houses and bed and breakfast operations. SECTION XXI. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 6.2. This section amends Section 6.2 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance so as to change the name of the “R-4” zoning district to the “R-4” Medium Density Residential District and to change the various permitted uses and special land uses allowed in this zoning district. These changes include, but are not limited to, adding provisions for single family dwellings, two family dwellings, home occupations and foster care (small group) facilities as permitted uses and for cluster land developments, churches and publicly owned and operated buildings and uses as special land uses. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 6.3. This section amends Section 6.3 of the Prairieville SECTION XXII. Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to the “R-5” Mobile Home Parks Residential District so as to change the various permitted uses allowed in this zoning district. These changes include, but are not limited to, adding provisions for home occupations, foster care (small group) facilities and accessory uses or buildings as permitted uses. This also includes amendment of the provision for group child care homes allowed as a special land use in the “R-5” zoning district. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 6.6. This section amends Section 6.6 of the Prairieville SECTION XXIII. Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to the “A” Agricultural District so as to change the various permitted uses and special land uses allowed in this zoning classification. These changes include, but are not limited to, adding provisions for greenhouses and nurseries (without retail sales), farm markets and roadside stands, home occupations and foster care (small group) facilities as permitted uses and for cluster land developments, greenhouses and nurseries (with retail sales), hunt clubs and gun clubs, the processing of agricultural products and publicly owned and operated buildings as special land uses. SECTION XXIV. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 6.6-1. This Section amends the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance by the establishment of a new Section 6.6-1 establishing the “AP” Agricultural Preservation District. This Section sets forth the purpose, permitted uses and special land uses allowed in the “AP” District, as well as various area regulations pertaining to the same. SECTION XXV. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 4.6. This section amends Section 4.6 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to regulations governing intersection visibility and visibility from a driveway or other entrance or exit onto a public or private road. SECTION XXVI. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 4.32. This section amends Section 4.32 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance pertaining to maximum height requirements for fences, walls and other screening structures. SECTION XXVII. SEVERABILITY. The provisions of this Ordinance are severable. SECTION XXVIII. REPEAL. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with this Ordinance are repealed. SECTION XXIX. EFFECTIVE DATE. This Ordinance shall take effect May 1, 2012. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the full text of this Ordinance has been posted in the Office of the Prairieville Township Clerk at the address set forth below and that a copy of the Ordinance may be purchased or inspected at the office of the Prairieville Township Clerk during regular business hours of regular working days following the date of this publication. PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP Jill Owens, Clerk 10115 S. Norris Road Delton, Michigan 49046 (269) 623-2664 06779244 �Page 10 — Thursday, April 19, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Kiwanis hears about Pennock Physician Network expansion The Hastings Kiwanis Club welcomed Bob Davis, executive director of the Pennock Physician Network, who spoke about the new Gun Lake Medical Center. “The need for quality health care continues to grow in this area. Bringing a new physician to the community will help Pennock meet this demand,” said Davis as he explained the physician network during the April 11 meeting. In addition to Hastings locations, Pennock offers services in Caledonia, Clarksville and Nashville. The newest addition to the network is Amy Curry, D.O. who will join Larry Hawkins, M.D., and Nurse Practitioner Sarah Verburg a a new primary care physician at the Gun Lake Medical Center. The facility opens this week on M-179 just east of Patterson Road. The new center also will offer the Wayland, Gun Lake, Yankee Springs and surrounding communities increased services, including an expanded lab, X-ray, drive-through pharmacy, physical therapy and other diagnostic services. “We’re providing top-quality medical care to the Gun Lake area,” said Davis. For additional information, call the physician referral line, 269-945-1749, or visit online at www.pennockhealth.com. The new Gun Lake Medical Center is on M-179 just east of Patterson Road. BIRCH Fire Dept. prepared for fires north of river The Michigan Avenue Bridge in Hastings has been completely removed and the North Broadway bridge near Tyden Park is down to two lanes. In order to ensure quick response times north of the river, the BIRCH Fire Department has stationed a grass fire truck and a pumper truck in the Hastings Bowl parking lot from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The trucks will return to the fire garage at night when traffic on North Broadway is reduced. Fire Chief Roger Caris said he has five crew members living north of the bridges who will respond to the bowling alley during the day and to the fire garage at night. Caris also said he has had conversations with the Freeport and Woodland fire department staff, who will be responding to all fires north of Hastings. Bob Davis, executive director of the Pennock Physician Network, speaks to the Hastings Kiwanis Club. SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN Earth day or any day, save a tree by going online by Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Earth Day is April 22, and more than 1 billion people will celebrate Earth Day in one way or another. Some of those ways could be to plant a tree; recycle plastic, glass and paper; or use the backside of printer paper before tossing it. What’s even better than recycling paper is not having any paper to begin with. By doing business with Social Security over the Internet, you’ll be doing your part to help us in our environment-friendly practices. Whether you want to get an estimate of your future retirement benefits, apply for Social Security benefits or Medicare, request a replacement Medicare card, report a change of address or direct deposit (if you are currently receiving benefits), or take charge of your retirement planning, you can use our secure website. Going online saves you a trip as well as the gas and carbon emissions that go along with it. Go to www.socialsecurity.gov/onlineservices to get started. Doing business with Social Security online is fast, easy and secure. It’s also environmentally the cleanest, greenest way to conduct Social Security business. Many of our online services are available as automated phone services, too. Just call 800-772-1213. On Earth Day, not everyone can give their home or office an environmental makeover or purchase an electric car, but anyone can use our online services or automated phone services. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. LEGAL NOTICES FORECLOSURE NOTICE RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES, P.C. MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. Mortgage Sale - Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by Robin M. Fletcher and James J. Fletcher, Jr. Wife and Husband to United States of America acting through the United States Department of Agriculture, herein called the Government, Mortgagee, dated April 15, 1996, and recorded on April 17, 1996, in Liber 657, Page 291, Barry County Records, , on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Eight Thousand Four Hundred Fifty-One and 59/100 ($78,451.59) including interest at the rate of 6.75000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the Circuit Court in said Barry County, where the premises to be sold or some part of them are situated, at 01:00 PM on May 10, 2012 Said premises are situated in the Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land in the Southwest quarter of Section 2, Town 1 North, Range 10 West, beginning at a point which lies 878 feet due East and North 33 degrees 05 minutes East 462.80 feet from Southwest corner of said Section 2, thence North 56 degrees 55 minutes West 156 feet, thence North 33 degrees 5 minutes East 227.87 feet, thence due East 186.19 feet, thence South 33 degrees 5 minutes West 330 feet to point of beginning; except the Southeasterly 33 feet for road. Commonly known as: 10944 S Norris Road If the property is eventually sold at foreclosure sale, the redemption period will be 6.00 months from the date of sale unless the property is abandoned or used for agricultural purposes. If the property is determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 and/or 600.3241a, the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of sale, or 15 days after statutory notice, whichever is later. If the property is presumed to be used for agricultural purposes prior to the date of the foreclosure sale pursuant to MCL 600.3240, the redemption period is 1 year. Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages are, if any, limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: April 12, 2012 Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for United States of America acting through the United States Department of Agriculture, herein called the Government 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302, (248) 335-9200 Case 06778605 No. 12MI00596-1 (04-12)(05-03) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Shirley Little a/k/a Shirley A. Little, by Lorenna Jo Wright, her power of attorney and William F. Little, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 24, 2008, and recorded on August 22, 2008 in instrument 20080822-0008487, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Seven Thousand Thirteen and 59/100 Dollars ($97,013.59). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 17, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 8 Block 7, of the Eastern Addition to the City, formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded Plat thereof, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #398979F01 06778628 (04-19)(05-10) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Steven Vanduine and Susan Vanduine, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated March 3, 2004, and recorded on March 11, 2004 in instrument 1123505, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Nineteen Thousand Five Hundred ThirtySix and 47/100 Dollars ($119,536.47). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 10, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Beginning at A Point found By Starting at the Northeast corner of Section 14, Town 2 North, Range 10 West; thence along the section line North 88 degrees West, 849.68 feet to a point on the South line of Parker Park; thence South 2 degrees West, 20 feet; thence South 00 degrees 21 minutes West, 123.33 feet; thence South 28 degrees 55 minutes West, 80 feet to the Point of Beginning of this description; thence continuing South 28 degrees 55 minutes West, 50 feet; thence North 57 degrees 58 1/2 minutes West to Stewart Lake; thence Northeasterly along said Lake 50 feet, more or less, to a Point which is North 58 degrees West from said Point of Beginning; thence South 58 degrees East to said Point of Beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #380005F03 06778319 (04-12)(05-03) Furniture from Lentz Table Company sought for Nashville library program Art on the Lawn, a revived tradition at Putnam District Library and to be held during the Nashville Car Show June 16, will focus this year on the craftsmanship of Lentz Table Company and the paintings of Lelia Luxmore Lentz, one of the founding members of the Nashville Art Group Society. Lentz Table Company, founded in 1867, once employed more than 100 people and occupied a large factory east of town. The company made fine furniture, including tables, stands, chairs, cupboards and commodes. The factory operated through several generations until the last members of the family retired in 1973. Lelia Lentz taught music and art in Nashville schools and often hosted the art group at the family’s cottage on Wall Lake. Heirloom pieces of furniture owned by the family and pieces owned by the library will be on display during Art on the Lawn. Anyone with a unique piece of furniture made by the Nashville factory is asked to contact library director Shauna Swantek or Rose Heaton. Swantek can be reached at 517852-9723 or via email at putnamlibrary.director@yahoo.com The library has a couple pieces of Lentz furniture that are labeled as gifts made by the family. The library also has several pieces of furniture without markings. On these pieces, neither the manufacturer nor the benefactor is identified. Area residents who may recall the Items produced by the Lentz Furniture Company in Nashville, like this table, are being sought for a one-day art program at the library in Nashville. history of these items are encouraged to visit the library and help the staff with correctly labeling these items. LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF A MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on January 10, 2007, by Kent R. Laubaugh, a single man, as Mortgagor, given by him to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on January 18, 2007, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 1175215, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank by assignment dated November 9, 2010, recorded on November 18, 2010, in Instrument Number 201011180010850, Barry County Records, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of Twenty-Five Thousand Seven Hundred Eighty-Four and 96/100 Dollars ($25,784.96); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, May 17, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF RUTLAND, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: The NW quarter of the NE quarter of the SW quarter of Section 16, T3N, R9W, Rutland Township, Barry County, Michigan. Commonly known as: 567 S. Irving Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058 Tax parcel number: 0813-016-014-10. The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: April 4, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 77567083 48933 (517) 371-8253 (04-12)(05-03) SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by LONNIE L. WRATE and EVELYN D. WRATE, HUSBAND AND WIFE, to MAINSTREET SAVINGS BANK, FSB, Mortgagee, dated November 2, 2009, and recorded on November 4, 2009, in Document No. 200911040010803, and assigned by said mortgagee to MICHIGAN STATE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Four Thousand Four Hundred Sixty-One Dollars and Fifty-Six Cents ($84,461.56), including interest at 6.625% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on May 10, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: BEGINNING AT THE NORTH 1 / 4 POST OF SECTION 2, TOWN 3 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, RUTLAND TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN; THENCE EAST 402.47 FEET ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SAID SECTION 2; THENCE SOUTH 00 DEGREES 14 MINUTES 01 SECONDS EAST 290.00 FEET; THENCE WEST 401.94 FEET; THENCE NORTH 00 DEGREES 20 MINUTES 20 SECONDS WEST 290.00 FEET ALONG THE NORTH AND SOUTH 1 / 4 LINE OF SAID SECTION 2 TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. MICHIGAN STATE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 USBW.001427 (0406778600 12)(05-03) Call 269-945-9554 anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, April 19, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES Case No. 11-466-CH Notice of Judicial Foreclosure Sale on a Default Judgment and Judgment of Foreclosure Against Defendants Teresa J. Lindsey, f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker and Shana Ciampa NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to the terms of a Default Judgment and Judgment of Foreclosure of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan signed and filed on January 17, 2012, in the case of Eaton Federal Savings Bank, Plaintiff v Teresa J. Lindsey, f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker and Shana Ciampa, Defendants, Case No. 11-466-CH, wherein, among other things, the Court allowed the foreclosure of a mortgage granted by Teresa J. Lindsey f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker (Mortgagor) to Eaton Federal Savings Bank on September 27, 2007 and recorded October 4, 2007 at Instrument No. 200710040002745, pages 1 through 10, Barry County Records, against the Mortgagor. Pursuant to the Default Judgment and Judgment for Foreclosure, the mortgaged premises shall be sold at a public auction by or under the direction of Clerk or Sheriff for the County of Barry to the highest bidder at the main entrance to the Barry County Courthouse, 220 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 on Thursday, May 17, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., local time. The following described “Mortgaged Premises”: Parcel 1: Lot 13 of Standley’s First Addition to Fine Lake Park, Johnstown Township, Barry County, Michigan, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, on Page 31, Also, beginning at the Southeast corner of Lot 13 of Standley’s First Addition to Fine Lake Park, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, on Page 31; thence North 26 degrees East along the Easterly line of Lots 13 and 14 of said Plat, 100.00 feet, thence South 82 degrees 54 minutes East 50.00 feet; thence South 26 degrees West, 100.00 feet; thence North 82 degrees 54 minutes West 50.00 feet to the point of beginning. Parcel 2: Beginning at the Southwest corner of Lot 8 of Fine Lake Park, Johnstown Township, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof; thence Northeasterly along the East Shore of Fine Lake to a point 10 feet from said place of beginning; thence Easterly to a point on the Easterly line of said Lot which is 3 feet North of the Southeast corner of said Lot; thence Southerly along the East line of said Lot to the Southeast corner thereof; thence Westerly along the South line of said Lot to the place of beginning. The Mortgaged Premises, whose address is 823 East Shore Drive, Battle Creek, Michigan, 49017, also include all right, title and interests held by Teresa J. Lindsey f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker as of September 27, 2007, in the Mortgaged Premises. The Premises may be redeemed during the six (6) months following the date of sale. BODMAN PLC By: Sandra L. Jasinski (P37430) Attorneys for Eaton Federal Savings Bank 229 Court Street, P.O. Box 405 Cheboygan, Michigan 49721 (231) 627-8000 Date: March 29, 2012 Dates of publication: March 29, April 5, 12, 19, 26, 77566696 May 3, and 10, 2012. Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Bruce A Irwin and Sandra L Irwin, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated May 4, 2007, and recorded on May 8, 2007 in instrument 1180284, and assigned by said Mortgagee to PHH Mortgage Corporation as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Five Thousand One Hundred Thirty-Seven and 24/100 Dollars ($75,137.24). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 10, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: PARCEL L-3: Commencing at the southeast corner of Section 33, town 2 North, Range 9 West; Running thence North 89 degrees 47 minutes 45 seconds West 1410.00 feet along the South line of Section 33; thence North 00 degrees 00 minutes 05 seconds East 664.00 feet parallel with the East line of the Southeast 1/4 of said Section 33, and along the West line of a 66 foot private Easement for ingress and egress and utilities in common with others for the True Place of beginning of this description; thence continuing North 00 degrees 00 minutes 05 seconds East 332.00 feet; thence South 89 degrees 32 minutes 04 seconds East 320.01 feet; thence South 00 Degrees 00 minutes 05 seconds West 331.51 feet; thence North 89 degrees 37 minutes 20 seconds West 320.01 feet to the Place of beginning. Together with rights in said easement and subject to extension thereof over the west 66 feet of the above described parcel. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #396800F01 77567065 (04-12)(05-03) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Jill L. Plowman, an unmarried woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Amerifirst Financial Corporation its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated October 12, 2010, and recorded on October 26, 2010 in instrument 201010260009979, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Eight Thousand Two Hundred and 13/100 Dollars ($138,200.13). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 17, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Assyria, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The South 1/2 of the West 1/2 of the Southwest fractional 1/4 of the Southwest fractional 1/4 of Section 18, Town 1 North, Range 7 West except all that certain piece of parcel of land commencing at the Southwest corner of Section 18, Town 1 North, Range 7 West; thence North 220.83 feet; thence East 579.50 feet; thence South 224.17 feet; thence West 578.50 feet to the Place of Beginning. Also the North 1/2 of the West 1/2 of the Southwest fractional 1/4 of the Southwest fractional 1/4 of Section 18, Town 1 North, Range 7 West. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #392735F01 77567182 (04-19)(05-10) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Tracie Farrah and Jamie Farrah, Wife and Husband, to Bayrock Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated August 31, 2005 and recorded September 8, 2005 in Instrument Number 1152444, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, successor in interest to Bank of America, National Association as successor by merger to LaSalle Bank National Association, as Trustee for Certificateholders of Bear Stearns Asset Backed Securities I LLC, Asset Backed-Certificates, Series 2005-HE12 by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Thousand Two Hundred Sixty-One and 72/100 Dollars ($200,261.72) including interest at 8.425% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on MAY 3, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The East 1385 feet of the North one-half of the South one-half of the Northwest one-quarter of Section 29, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, Hope Township, Barry County, Michigan, except the North 440 feet thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: April 5, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 199.3674 775669190 (04-05)(04-26) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by William Humphreys, by Beverly Louise Humphreys as Attorney in Fact and Beverly Humphreys, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 10, 2003, and recorded on August 13, 2003 in instrument 1110831, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy Thousand One Hundred TwentyFive and 57/100 Dollars ($70,125.57). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 17, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 4 and 5 of Block 1 of Chamberlains Addition to the City, formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats on Page 7. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #398819F01 (04-19)(05-10) 77567192 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by James Gibson and Laura Gibson, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Metro Finance its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated October 17, 2007, and recorded on November 13, 2007 in instrument 200711130004091, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fifty-Five Thousand Three Hundred Forty-Seven and 79/100 Dollars ($155,347.79). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 17, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel 2: Commencing at the Southeast corner of Section 28, Town 4 North, Range 9 West; thence North 00 degrees 14 minutes 27 seconds West, 1120.13 feet along the East line of said Section 28; thence South 89 degrees 35 minutes 08 Seconds West, 253 feet to the point of beginning; thence North 00 degrees 14 minutes 27 seconds West 370.46 feet; thence South 89 degrees 39 minutes 30 seconds West 178.85 feet; thence South 00 degrees 14 minutes 27 seconds East 184.00 feet; thence South 89 degrees 35 minutes 08 Seconds West 41.15 feet; thence South 00 degrees 14 minutes 27 seconds East 186.69 feet; thence North 89 degrees 35 minutes 08 seconds East 220.00 feet to the point of beginning. Together with and subject to an easement for ingress, egress and public utilities described as follows: Beginning at a point on the East line of Section 28, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, distant North 00 degrees 14 minutes 27 seconds West, 1120.13 feet from the Southeast corner of said Section 28; thence South 89 degrees 35 minutes 08 seconds West 781.68 feet; thence Northwesterly, Easterly and Southeasterly 219.33 feet along the arc of a curve to the right, the radius of which is 50.00 feet and the chord of which bears North 35 degrees 15 minutes 15 seconds East 81.24 feet; thence North 89 degrees 35 minutes 08 Seconds East 734.51 feet; thence South 00 degrees 14 minutes 27 seconds East 66.00 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #366171F01 77567160 (04-19)(05-10) SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by GLEN L. GUERNSEY AKA GLEN L. GUERNSEY JR. and LISA GUERNSEY, HUSBAND AND WIFE, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns,, Mortgagee, dated October 31, 2003, and recorded on May 13, 2004, in Document No. 1127564, and assigned by said mortgagee to GMAC MORTGAGE, LLC SBM TO GMAC MORTGAGE CORPORATION, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty Thousand Eight Hundred Thirty-One Dollars and Twenty-Five Cents ($160,831.25), including interest at 5.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on May 3, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: THE WEST 328.3 FEET OF THE WEST 1 / 2 OF THE NORTH 60 ACRES OF THE NORTHEAST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 23, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 7 WEST. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. GMAC MORTGAGE, LLC SBM TO GMAC MORTGAGE CORPORATION Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 GMAC.007473 (04-05)(04-26) 77567035 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Joseph Steffler and Brooke Steffler, husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated September 8, 2006 and recorded October 26, 2006 in Instrument Number 1171927, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by PNC Bank, N.A. by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Three Thousand Four Hundred Two and 40/100 Dollars ($133,402.40) including interest at 6.75% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on MAY 17, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Maple Grove, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 27, Town 2 North, Range 7 West, described as: Commencing at the North 1/4 corner of said Section; thence South 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East 273.14 feet along the North line of said Northeast 1/4 to the place of beginning; thence South 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East 548.0 feet along said North line; thence South 00 degrees 29 minutes 53 seconds East 400.00 feet along the East line of the West 50 acres of said Northeast 1/4; thence North 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West 548.0 feet; thence North 00 degrees 29 minutes 53 seconds West 400.0 feet to the place of beginning. Also described for tax purposes as: Commencing North 1/4 post Section 27, thence East 273.41 feet to point of beginning; thence East 548 feet, thence South 0 degrees 29 minutes 53 seconds East 400 feet, thence West 526 feet, thence North 29 degrees 53 minutes West 400 feet to point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: April 19, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 2485022633 File No. 401.0707 77567187 (04-19)(05-10) NOTICE TO BORROWER PURSUANT TO MCL 600.3205a(4) THIS FIRM MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. NOTICE is hereby provided to the Borrower(s) regarding the property located at 3494 S MORGAN RD, NASHVILLE, MI 49073. State law requires that you receive the following notice: You have the right to request a meeting with the mortgage holder or mortgage servicer. Pursuant to MCL 600.3205a(1)(c), OneWest Bank, FSB has designated the Loan Modification Department of Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 at (248) 883-0157 as its agent to serve as the contact under MCL sections 600.3205a-3205c and has the authority to make agreements for a loan modification pursuant to MCL sections 600.3205b and 600.3205c. You may contact a housing counselor by visiting the Michigan State Housing Development Authority's website at http://www.michigan.gov/mshda or by calling 1-800A-SHELTER, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, year-round. If you request a meeting with the designated agent, foreclosure proceedings will not start until 90 days after the notice required by MCL 600.3205a was mailed to your last known address, subject to the provisions of MCL 600.3205b. If an agreement to modify the mortgage is reached and you abide by the terms of the agreement, the mortgage will not be foreclosed. You have the right to contact an attorney. If you do not have an attorney, the telephone number for the Michigan State Bar Lawyer Referral Service is (800) 968-0738. Notice given by: Randall S. Miller Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 248-883-0157 (Loan Modification Dept.) loanmods@rsmalaw.com Case No. 12MI01177-1 Dated: April 19, 2012 (04-19) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Matthew W Spencer and Anne K Spencer, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Polaris Home Funding Corp., its successors or assigns, Mortgagee, dated March 1, 2008 and recorded March 13, 2008 in Instrument Number 20080313-002327, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Thousand Four Hundred Sixty and 7/100 Dollars ($200,460.07) including interest at 5.75% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on MAY 17, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the Township of Rutland, County of Barry, State of Michigan: Beginning at a point on the East-West 1/4 line of Section 17, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, distant West 1322.82 feet from the East 1/4 post of said Section 17; thence South 01 degrees 16 minutes 10 seconds East 536.51 feet along the East line of the West 1/2 of the Southeast 1/4 of said Section 17; thence West, 164.27 feet parallel with said 1/4 line; thence North 66 degrees 33 minutes 37 seconds West, 33.82 feet; thence North 36 degrees 04 minutes 29 seconds East, 60.64 feet; thence North 07 degrees 57 minutes 58 seconds West, 103.67 feet; thence North 35 degrees 58 minutes 26 seconds West 138.54 feet; thence North 42 degrees 35 minutes 35 seconds East 33.66 feet; thence North 14 degrees 51 minutes 00 seconds East 242.44 feet thence East, 158.52 feet along said East-West 1/4 line to the place of beginning. Together with and subject to an easement for private roadway and public utility purposes to be used jointly with others over a strip of land 66 feet wide, 33 feet each side of the centerline described as: Beginning at a point on the East and West 1/4 line of Section 17, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, distant West 1906.85 feet from the East 1/4 post of said Section 17; thence South 00 degrees 20 minutes 48 seconds West, 112.79 feet; thence South 84 degrees 20 minutes 58 seconds East, 126.10 feet; thence South 58 degrees 49 minutes 45 seconds East, 259.10 feet; thence South 35 degrees 58 minutes 26 seconds East, 138.54 feet; thence South 07 degrees 57 minutes 28 seconds East,103.67 feet; thence South 36 degrees 04 minutes 29 seconds West, 60.64 feet to the end of said described easement. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: April 19, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 682.2477 77567211 (04-19)(05-10) �Page 12 — Thursday, April 19, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE TO CREDITORS Trust In the matter of George Cogswell. Trust dated June 13, 2006. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, George Cogswell, born September 27, 1917, who lived at 5791 East Center Road, Hastings, Michigan died March 15, 2012 leaving a certain trust under the name of George Cogswell, and dated June 13, 2006, wherein the decedent was the Settlor and Roland Curtiss was named as the trustee serving at the time of or as a result of the decedents death. Creditors of the decedent and of the trust are notified that all claims against the decedent or against the trust will be forever barred unless presented to Roland Curtiss, the named trustee at 675 South Martin Road, Hastings, Michigan within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 4/12/2012 Robert L. Byington 222 West Apple Street, P.O. Box 248 Hastings, Michigan 49058 269-945-9557 Roland Curtiss 675 South Martin Road 77567158 Hastings, Michigan 49058 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Ryan G. Markley and Nicole L. Markley, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, Mortgagee, dated October 28, 2008, and recorded on October 30, 2008 in instrument 20081030-0010608, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixteen Thousand Seven Hundred ThirtySix and 91/100 Dollars ($116,736.91). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 3, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 11, Block 49, Village of Middleville, according to the recorded plat thereof in Liber 1 of Plats, on Plage 27. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #393068F01 775666897 (04-05)(04-26) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Anthony J. Wolfe, a single man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Polaris Home Funding Corp. its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated October 30, 2006, and recorded on November 8, 2006 in instrument 1172545, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eight Thousand Three Hundred Nine and 45/100 Dollars ($108,309.45). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on April 26, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at a point 115 rods North of the Southwest corner of Sectioin 21; Town 3 North; Range 8 West, for a place of beginning; thence North 66 feet; thence East 250 feet; thence South 66 feet; thence West 250 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 29, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #379843F01 77566641 (03-29)(04-19) Synopsis HOPE TOWNSHIP Regular Board Meeting April 9, 2012 All Board members present. 6 guests. Regular meeting opened at 7 p.m. Approved: Agenda Previous Minutes Standing Reports Bills Resolutions 2012-8, 2012-9, 2012-4, 2012-10, 2012-11. Election Expenses for Aug. 7 Primary Online Backup service Adjourned 7:45 p.m. Submitted by: Deborah Jackson, Clerk Attested to by 77567197 Patricia Albert, Supervisor Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Deborah L Larson, A Single Woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated March 7, 2011, and recorded on March 10, 2011 in instrument 201103100002310, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Everbank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Four Thousand Two Hundred Forty-Six and 20/100 Dollars ($124,246.20). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 10, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 8 and 9 of Bristol Oaks, according to the Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 4 of Plats, on Page 66. Together with a perpetual easement in common with others for driveway purposes, across and upon those private drives as now located and used that provide access to this property from a public highway as set forth in deeds recorded in Liber 291, on Page 397 and Liber 353, on Page 316. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #398293F01 06778314 (04-12)(05-03) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Curt G. Griffis AKA Curtis G. Griffis II and Tonya A. Griffis Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to National City Mortgage a division of National City Bank of Indiana, Mortgagee, dated December 30, 2005, and recorded on January 4, 2006 in instrument 1158517, and assigned by said Mortgagee to National City Mortgage Company as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eighty-Six Thousand Two Hundred Ninety-One and 34/100 Dollars ($186,291.34). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 3, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Unit No. 16, Whispering Pines Estates Condominium according to the Master Deed Recorded in Liber 1023989, as amended, and designated as Barry County Condominium Subdivision Plan No. 12, together with rights in the general common elements and the limited common elements as shown on the Master Deed and as described in Act 59 of the Public Acts of 1978, as amended. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #348835F02 77566791 (04-05)(04-26) Synopsis Hastings Charter Township Regular Meeting April 10, 2012 Meeting called to order at 7:00 pm Pledge and roll call Six board members present, 1 absent, 27 guests attended Public comment-.Julie Nakfoor-Pratt intro. Presentation by Barry County Parks & Recreation Approved March minutes & Various dept. reports Commissioner’s report rec’d Treasurer’s report approved Clerk quarterly financial Poverty Exemption requests Sexton contract Parking lot repairs Approved payment of warrants Board member comments Public comment Approved motion to adjourn 8:46 pm Read full minutes on twp. website Respectfully submitted, Anita S. Mennell - Clerk Attested to by 77567207 Jim Brown – Supervisor STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-26095-DE Estate of JACK LAVERNE HEWITT Date of Birth: July 28, 1947 TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, JACK LAVERNE HEWITT , died March 27, 2012 . Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to JEAN TAGLIERE , named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 WEST COURT, SUITE 302, HASTINGS, MI 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: April 16, 2012 NATHAN E. TAGG P68994 206 SOUTH BROADWAY HASTINGS, MI 49058 (269) 948-2900 JEAN TAGLIERE 5712 BUTTERFIELD DRIVE COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80923 (719) 231-5399 77567180 FORECLOSURE NOTICE (ALL COUNTIES) AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTIFY (248) 362-6100 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by Janice F Kramer, a single woman of Barry County, Michigan, Mortgagor to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. dated the 10th day of July, 2008, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, for the County of Barry and State of Michigan, on the 18th day of July, 2008, in Instrument No. 20080718-0007344 of Barry Records, which said mortgage was assigned to The Huntington National Bank, thru mesne assignments, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, for principal of $168,137.47 (one hundred sixty-eight thousand one hundred thirty-seven and 47/100) plus accrued interest at 6.875% (six point eight seven five) percent per annum. And no suit proceedings at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to the statue of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on, the 26th day of April, 2012, at 1:00:00 PM said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI, Barry County, Michigan, of the premises described in said mortgage. Which said premises are described as follows: All that certain piece or parcel of land situate in the Township of Barry, in the County of Barry and State of Michigan and described as follows to wit: Situated in the Township of Barry, County of Barry and State of Michigan: Lot 11 of Poplar Beach, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 14, Barry Township, Barry County, Michigan. Commonly known as: 6894 Shoreline Drive, fka 6802 South Shore Drive Tax Parcel No.: 03-105008-00 The redemption period shall be six months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: March 29, 2012 By: Foreclosing Attorneys Attorney for Plaintiff Weltman, Weinberg & Reis Co., L.P.A. 2155 Butterfield Drive, Suite 200-S Troy, MI 48084 WWR# 10089762 (03-29)(04-19) 77566733 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Dale Cheeseman and Audra Cheeseman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registrations Systems, Inc., as nominee for Novastar Mortgage, Inc. its successors and assigns., Mortgagee, dated May 12, 2006, and recorded on June 7, 2006 in instrument 1165690, and assigned by said Mortgagee to U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for J.P. Morgan Mortgage Acquisition Trust 2006-HE3, Asset Backed Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2006-HE3 as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Four Thousand Five Hundred SeventyNine and 09/100 Dollars ($104,579.09). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 17, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 1256 of the City, formerly Village of Hastings, according to the Recorded plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #375543F01 06778622 (04-19)(05-10) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Allen Micah Blickley, a married man and Sharon Blickley, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 28, 2008, and recorded on February 19, 2008 in instrument 20080219-0001472, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Eight Thousand Three Hundred Eight and 33/100 Dollars ($138,308.33). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 17, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the Village of Middleville, County of Barry, State of Michigan and described as follows: Lot 7, Block 58 of Village of Middleville according to the Plat thereof recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 27 of Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #398991F01 06778616 (04-19)(05-10) NOTICE OF JUDICIAL FORECLOSURE SALE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE IF YOU ARE A BORROWER ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTENTION PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the circuit court at the request of the plaintiff. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest, as determined by the court. (Barry) County Circuit Court Case No. 10193-CH NOTICE OF JUDICIAL SALE JUDICIAL SALE IN PURSUANCE and by virtue of a Stipulated Order Validating Mortgage and for Judgment of Foreclosure in the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on the 1st day of October, 2010, in a certain cause therein pending, wherein Stephanie Stolsonburg was the Plaintiff/Counter-Defendant and Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Soundview Home Loan Trust 2006-1 Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2006-1 was the Defendant/Counter-Plaintiff. The aforementioned judgment established a debt owing to plaintiff in the amount of $143,133.77 plus post-judgment interest at an annual rate of 8% and other amounts recoverable pursuant to said judgment. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that in order to satisfy said judgment, in whole or in part, the property described below shall be sold at public auction, by an authorized sheriff or deputy sheriff, to the highest bidder, at the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, located at 220 W. State Street, Hastings, MI 49058, (that being the building in which the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held) on the 31st of May 2012 at 1 pm, local time. On said day at said time, the following described property shall be sold: City/Twp. of Yankee Springs, County of Barry, State of Michigan, Lot 24, the Westerly 1/2 of Lot 25 and the South 10 feet of Lot 31, adjacent to said Lot 24 of Streeter's Resort, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats on Page 37, also the South 10 feet of Lot 31, adjacent to the Westerly 1/2 of Lot 25 of said Streeter's Resort. Also an undivided 1/4 interest in Lot 29 of Streeter's Resort, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats on Page 37. Tax Parcel ID: 16-215-020-00 Commonly known as 11486 Lighthouse Ct., Middleville, MI 49333-8451 REDEMPTION PERIOD IS SIX MONTHS. Mark Sheldon, Barry County Deputy Sheriff For more information please call 248-642-2515. Trott & Trott, P.C. By: Rana Razzaque (P67627) Attorneys for Plaintiff 31440 Northwestern Hwy., Ste. 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 T&T# 250978L02 (0406778491 12)(05-24) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Shane A. Rugg, an unmarried man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for AmeriFirst Financial Corporation, its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated January 29, 2010, and recorded on February 4, 2010 in instrument 201002040001028, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ninety-Three Thousand Fifty-Eight and 03/100 Dollars ($193,058.03). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 10, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Assyria, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The Northwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 and the West 1/2 of the East 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 12, Town 1 North, Range 7 West. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #374743F03 77567059 (04-12)(05-03) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Barry Joe Roscoe and Christine Ann Roscoe husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 4, 2007, and recorded on April 23, 2007 in instrument 1179609, and modified by Affidavit or Order recorded on March 13, 2012 in instrument 201203130002590, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Wells Fargo Bank, NA as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty Thousand Six Hundred Thirty-Seven and 49/100 Dollars ($120,637.49), including interest at 6.75% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on April 26, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Maple Grove, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Southeast Corner of Section 6, Town 2 North, Range 7 West, Thence North 00 degrees 19 minutes 12 seconds East 1081.83 feet to point of beginning; thence North 88 degrees 56 minutes 30 seconds West 165 feet; thence South 00 degrees 19 minutes 12 seconds West 148.5 feet; thence North 88 degrees 56 minutes 30 seconds West 80 feet; thence North 00 degrees 19 minutes 12 seconds East 396 feet; thence South 88 degrees 56 minutes 30 seconds East 245 feet; thence South 00 degrees 19 minutes 12 seconds West 247.50 feet to point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: March 29, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #367381F07 77566619 (03-29)(04-19) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, April 19, 2012 — Page 13 Trucks crash at Broadway and Apple Two pickup trucks collided just before 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 11, at the intersection of Broadway and Apple streets in Hastings. An investigation by Hastings City Police revealed that a truck traveling south on Broadway attempted to make a left, or eastbound, turn onto Apple Street. Michael Loftus, 63, of Hastings failed to see a northbound truck before he turned into the path of a truck driven by 42-year-old Laura Wallace, of Hastings. Both vehicles were damaged, but no injuries were reported. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 For Sale National Ads Help Wanted 100% WOOD HEAT- No worries. Keep your family safe & warm with a Classic Outdoor Wood Furnace from Central Boiler. Call SOS your “Stocking Dealer” Dutton, MI (616)554-8669 or (6+1+6)915-5606+51. THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is deceptive, fraudulent or might otherwise violate law or accepted standards of taste. However, this publication does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the quality of goods or services advertised. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made in any advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you ask for money in advance of delivery of goods or services advertised. MENTAL HEALTH CLINICIAN: A full-time position for a LLP, LPC or LMSW with previous group therapy and crisis stabilization experience. The ability to work independently and as a member of an interdisciplinary team is necessary. The availability to work evenings and take on-call coverage is required. This position may qualify for student loan reimbursement. Find out more at www.hrsa.gov/about/contact. Send resume to Barry County Community Mental Health Authority, 915 West Green Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 or kejenkins@bccmha.org. No phone calls. EOE. 24” 179CC TWO stage Troybilt snowblower, 40 hours. Self-propelled, 8 speeds, pull or electric starting. Very well maintained. $400 obo. (269)945-7173 AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 Estate Sale ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. Antiques ALLEGAN ANTIQUE MARKET: Sunday, April 29th. 400 exhibitors, rain or shine. 8:00am-4:00pm. Located at the fairgrounds right in Allegan, MI. $4.00 admission. NO PETS. Automotive FOR SALE: 1990 GMC 1500 pickup, V-6, 5-speed manual transmission. 100,000 miles. New paint job, rims and tires, $2,500.00. 2000 Mercury Cougar, 5 speed manual transmission, V6 engine. New brakes. Small dent in passenger side door, $2,000.00. Please call 616881-3546 RICK TAYLOR’S DETAIL WORKS. Hours 8am-5pm, Monday-Saturday. Trust a professional with 44 years experience. (269)948-0958. Business Services BASEMENT WATERPROOFING: PROFESSIONAL BASEMENT SERVICES waterproofing, crack repair, mold remediation. Local/licensed. Free estimates. (517)290-5556. BOOKKEEPING SERVICES Personal * Self-Employed * Small Business Payroll * Billing Accounts Receivable * Accounts Payable General Ledger Weekly * Monthly * Quarterly * Annually Call today! (269)420-5714 PROFESSIONAL LAWN CARE SERVICES: Now taking new customers in the Hastings area. Very reasonable prices, please call for a free quote. (269)945-5383 Help Wanted 25 DRIVER TRAINEES Needed NOW! Become a driver for Werner Enterprises! Earn $750 per week! No experience needed! Local CDL Training! Job ready in 15 days! 1-877-649-2697. REGISTERED NURSE: A full-time position is available in a southwest Michigan community mental health agency for a registered nurse. This position will function as part of an interdisciplinary treatment team for clients with developmental disabilities and/or severe mental illnesses. Applicant must be nurturing, demonstrate skills in assessment and treatment planning, and have knowledge of developmental disabilities and mental illness, previous experience preferred. Ability to work in a fast paced, multifaceted environment necessary. Send resume to Barry County Community Mental Health Authority, 915 West Green Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 or kejenkins@bccmha.org. No phone calls. EOE. Recreation WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are interested in leasing acreage for this years deer season. Call (269)795-3049 Wanted PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 BUYING OLD POCKET watches, old wind up wrist watches, working or not working. Call George (616)916-8271 BUYING WWII, WWI, Civil War uniforms, weapons, helmets, bayonets, German, Japanese, and American. Call George (616)916-8271 Card of Thanks THANK YOU Thank you to my family and friends for all the great cards. A special thank you to Bosley’s for my basket of flowers. Gwen Turner POLICE BEAT Drugs and more blamed for Easter Sunday aggression Hastings Police Department received a dispatch April 8 regarding two occupants of a home in the 100 block of West Green Street who were having an argument and property was being damaged. Prior to the police arriving, the man allegedly smashed a television and a mirror and then left the home. The Hastings officer, assisted by a Michigan State Police Trooper made contact with the woman, and after confirming the man left, officers also left the scene. Later that day, officer drove by the residence and noticed someone inside the home and the woman sitting on the front porch. The officer stopped to determine everything was okay. The woman told him the person inside was a neighbor helping her clean up. The officer noted there was far more damage than earlier in the day. While questioning her about the situation, the officer noted she seemed apprehensive and unwilling to talk. The officer called for backup after learning that the woman had allegedly been held by her neck while the man had returned and destroyed more of the apartment. Red marks were reportedly seen on the woman’s neck. The 32-year-old male suspect appeared on the roof of the house as another person inside the home ran from the house yelling. Deputies arrived to surround the house, and attempts were made to talk the man off the roof. At one point the man ran across the roof diving through an unopened glass window, shattering the glass. After breaking the window. The trooper used a Taser to subdue the man, who was than taken into custody for domestic violence. While en route to jail, the man reportedly thrashed about and vomited in the patrol car. At the jail, he continued to resist officers and had to be placed in a restraint chair. Alcohol, illegal drugs and bath salts are believed to be contributing factors in this incident. The Hastings man is expected to face two counts of resisting and obstructing police in addition to the domestic violence charge. Probation was probably not enough Hastings Police received notice from the Barry County Probation Department April 10 that a 36-year-old Hastings man had just walked out of his probation officer’s office. Two probation officers were following the man on foot, reporting his location. The subject, who also had two outstanding arrest warrants, was located by Hastings officers a short time later on Mill Street. One officer pulled a patrol car in front of the man, got out and twice told the man he was under arrest. The man began walking faster and then started to run away. The officer caught the man a short distance later, tackling him to the ground. The man continued to struggle. One of the probation officers arrived and helped in the arrest. After the man was handcuffed and searched, officers found marijuana in his pockets. He is being charged with resisting and obstructing an officer and possession of marijuana, along with the two outstanding arrest warrants. Salad, apparently, was not up to snuff Hastings Police were dispatched to the Hastings Subway sandwich shop on West State Street April 9 for help with an unruly customer. The customer, reportedly, was refusing to leave the store and causing a commotion. Upon arrival, officers were flagged down by two individuals near the store. One of them admitted to causing a commotion in the store, saying he was upset over the way the store personnel made his salad. The man said he used to work for a Subway, and his salad was not made properly. The subject had then admittedly gotten into an argument with an employee after having been told that he smelled of marijuana. The subject had then decided to leave the store, where he had met the police arriving. He told the officer he was tired of people commenting about his medical marijuana card. He then showed the officer a medical marijuana card, which had expired March 1, as well as a jar of suspected marijuana in his vehicle. After not being able to prove any renewal application had actually been sent to the State, the man finally said his provider had reportedly paid his application fee and mailed everything. Officers seized the suspected marijuana, advising the man he needed to provide the proper paperwork and that failure to do so would result in formal charges. The incident remains under investigation. Woman decides to become vigilante Hastings officers responded to the Smokey Mountain Tobacco Shop on East State Street in Hastings April 9 after receiving a call of a fight in progress. As police entered the store, they encountered a woman who held her hands out in front of her and used expletives to say she had just beaten another woman. Officers said the second woman was nearby tending a bleeding nose. Police were informed that the suspect, a 31-year-old Hastings woman, had accused individuals in the store of using illegal drugs with members of her family, which had adversely affected her and her family. She told officers she had decided to take things into her own hands. The woman was arrested on assault and battery charges, which are now pending prosecutorial review. Teen cannot make up for the makeup Barry County Sheriff Deputies were called to the Hastings Walmart April 10 on a reported larceny. Store security had a woman in custody, after seeing her opening mascara packages and placing the items in her purse. She was also observed placing and iPod cable in her purse while in the electronics department. She then went to check out and paid for items in her cart, but not the items in her purse. She was stopped by store personnel as she left the building. The 18-year-old was arrested after confessing. Her 1-year-old child was turned over to a friend who had accompanied her to the store. Photos and a store report were forwarded to the prosecutor’s office for review. Man is contracted for payback A Hastings man reported March 13 that his debit card had been stolen and he suspected someone of using the card. He also believed the same person had taken money from his pockets on several occasions while his pants were hanging on a chair in his home. He claimed $500 was stolen the first time, and $200 the second time. He told deputies that on March 9, his debit card and PIN number, along with $100 cash, was stolen from the same location. On March 12, he was notified by his bank of three transactions were made with his debit card, each for $400. The complainant identified the 21-year-old debit card user from surveillance photos the bank provided. He said the suspect had been at his house several times, and he wanted to pursue charges. The suspect was contacted by the victim, who in turn contacted the sheriff’s department. He confessed to the theft and said he had already paid some of the money back. He also provided a “contract” he had made with the complainant to pay back the rest of the money. The report has been forwarded to the prosecutor’s office. Resident robbed while in the hospital Deputies responded to the report of a theft on Mud Lake Road near Bellevue April 5. A woman told deputies she had been in the hospital for more than a week after being shot, when she received a call from her daughter saying state troopers were at the woman’s new home. She was told her son, his wife and a third person had been arrested. The woman told deputies she believed that third person had also stolen her heart medication, another prescription and $150 in cash while she was in the hospital. The suspect had allegedly stolen from her in the past. The woman also said she was missing four bracelets and three rings valued at $150, although she was unable to describe the missing jewelry. When questioned, the 21-year-old suspect told deputies she did not take the cash, believed the troopers had confiscated the prescription medication, and knew nothing about the jewelry. She told authorities she had been living in the woman’s garage. Troopers confirmed that they had seized some prescription medication during the arrests of the three individuals. The report has been forwarded to the prosecutor’s office. Man would rather not talk Deputies received a report of a reckless driver on Charlton Drive April 14. Arriving near the location, a deputy saw a green Ford Escort pull into a driveway. The deputy exited his vehicle and began talking with the female passenger while the male driver left the vehicle and walked to the back of the house. The driver refused to speak with the deputy. The deputy ran the car’s license plate and determined that the driver was a 25-yearold Moline man with a probation violation warrant. The man refused to come out of the house and speak, so the deputy drove away and waited nearby. A short time later, the man left the house and started walking down the road. The deputy informed the man of his outstanding warrant and that his driver’s license was suspended, and the man was handcuffed and taken into custody. The deputy found a small bag of unknown pills in the man’s pocket. The 27 pills were later identified as Promethazine, a medication conventionally used for allergies, nausea and vomiting. Use of ‘spice’ results in paranoia, 911 call A man called 911 to report his home sur- Continued in next column State News Roundup State police marks 95th anniversary The Michigan State Police is celebrating its 95th anniversary, and to honor this milestone, Gov. Rick Snyder has declared April as Michigan State Police History Month. “What started as a cavalry of men has evolved into a complex, professional law enforcement agency responsible for not only general police investigative services and traffic patrol, but also forensic science services, statewide criminal justice records management and state homeland security and emergency management,” said Col. Kriste Kibbey Etue, director of the MSP. “This month, as we mark our 95th anniversary, it is a time for us to reflect on our rich history and traditions and remember the dedication and sacrifice of those who served before us.” The MSP’s roots date back to World War I when the department began as a temporary, wartime emergency force for the purpose of domestic security. On April 19, 1917, Gov. Albert Sleeper created the Michigan State Troops Permanent Force, also known as the Michigan State Constabulary. With Col. Roy C. Vandercook as the first commanding officer, this new force consisted of five troops of mounted, dismounted and motorized units. On March 26, 1919, Public Act 26 reorganized the Constabulary as the permanent, peace-time Michigan State Police. When Michigan adopted a new Constitution in 1963, authorizing up to 20 departments, Public Act 380 of 1965 reorganized the MSP as one of these departments. The director of the MSP holds the rank of colonel and is appointed by the governor. Today, the MSP is a modern-day, full-service law enforcement agency with statewide jurisdiction consisting of 2,340 enforcement and civilian members. Alzheimer’s early detection workshop offered in Battle Creek The Alzheimer’s Association ‘Know the 10 Signs: Early Detection Matters’ workshop Thursday, April 26, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Burnham Brook Community Center, 200 W. Michigan Ave., Battle Creek, will provide local residents with information about the difference between normal aging and Alzheimer’s disease, the benefits of early detection, as well as tips to follow up on any concerns that attendees may have about themselves or someone they care about. “In 2011, the first wave of baby boomers began turning 65 — the age that your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease begins to increase significantly,” said Barb Betts Swartz, program director at the Alzheimer’s Association, Michigan Great Lakes Chapter. “Knowing the warning signs of Alzheimer’s and getting diagnosed early is vital to receiving the best help and care possible.” People who attend the free workshop will view video footage that addresses fears and myths associated with dementia. Individuals featured in the films include real people who are living with the early stages of dementia and their families discussing key topics, such as the 10 warning signs; basic overview of Alzheimer’s disease; risk factors; what is involved in getting a diagnosis; and benefits of early detection including accessing available treatment, planning for the future and participating in clinical trials. Advance registration is required. For more information or to register, call 800-2723900 or visit www.alz.org/mglc. POLICE BEAT, continued from previous column rounded by six men with guns. He told a dispatcher that the men were going to rob him. Officers from the Barry and Calhoun County sheriff departments, Michigan State Police, Barry Township and Nashville all responded to the call. Authorities arrived the Jenkins Road residence to find no one except the man who had called 911. While en route to the scene, deputies were informed by dispatch that the caller had confessed he was smoking an unknown substance. When the man was asked to leave the house, he did so, but maintained the six armed men had been there and had cut off his electricity. Deputies checked the electrical box which was seemingly untouched. During questioning, the man told deputies he had purchased K2 or Spice in Battle Creek and had smoked it that day. The man also said he had been going to the Veterans Administration Hospital for post-traumatic stress disorder. An on-call psychiatrist was contacted at the VA who talked with the 48-year-old Bellevue man. The doctor told deputies there was no immediate need for the man to be treated at the VA. No arrest was made at the time, but a bag of the smoked substance was seized and sent to the MSP laboratory for evaluation. The man insisted the “potpourri” was not illegal, since he had purchased it at a store. After determining the man was no danger to himself or others, officers left the scene. If the substance is determined to be illegal, a warrant request will be made. The substance was labeled “Botanical Sachet” and “SpaceCadet” and was manufactured by BeastBlend.com. �Page 14 — Thursday, April 19, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Improvements at high jump pit help Vikings win by Brett Bremer Sports Editor With only one regular leaper back in the high jump, Michael Carr, Lakewood varsity track and field coach pointed around at one early season practice. “Hey, why don’t you try it. Why don’t you try it,” he said. One of those “why don’t you try its” was directed at sophomore Nathan Kauffman. Kauffman won the event in the second meet of the season Thursday, the Lakewood Tri with Pennfield and Maple Valley. He edged out Carr on attempts as both guys cleared 5 feet 8 inches. It was a good day for the Lakewood leapers. The Vikings had the top three girls in the high jump as well, with Ashley Jemison clearing 4-9 to win a jump-off with teammate Hannah DeJong. DeJong was second at 4-8, while Cassidy Curtis was third at 4-6. “Kauffman, that’s the second time he ever did the high jump,” said Hassett. “ He only Lakewood’s Madi King races towards the finish line in the 1600-meter run Thursday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Maple Valley senior Garrett Reid sprints towards a victory in the 200-meter dash at Thursday’s Lakewood Tri. (Photo by Brett Bremer) made 5 feet before spring break. He won it at 5-8 today. That’s huge improvement right there. “Ashley (Jemison) is another one. Until today, 4-4 was her best. She made 4-9 today and she won it. They were jumping off. The last couple years she’s been at 4-2, 4-4.” It’s always good to see early season improvements, but Hassett didn’t have a good explanation for it. “I’ve only got a part-time jumps coach who is only here like two days a week, and half those times it has been really bad weather. The only bad weather days have been the days he’s been here, so he’s only worked with them a couple times.” The sweep of the high jump was a part of two wins for the Lakewood girls Thursday. They topped Maple Valley 102-35 and Pennfield 126-10 to improve to 4-0 on the year. Maple Valley won its dual with Kalamazoo Valley Association rival Pennfield 99-20. The Lakewood boys were 1-1, beating Pennfield 82-53, but falling to Maple Valley 93-43. The Lion boys beat the Panthers 94-43 in their competition. BOWLING SCORES Monday Mixerettes ~Final Standings~ Kent Oil 71.5-53.5; Dean’s Dolls 69-59; NBT 69-59; Nashville Chiropractic 66.5-61.5; Dewey’s Auto Body 58-70; James Process Service 49-75. Good games and series - M. Rodgers 168; N. Potter 160-443; P. Fowler 152; D. James 180; T. Redman 159-409. Wednesday P.M. ~Final Standings~ Delton Suds 87-41; Four Pals 73.5-54.5; The River 75-55; Hair Care 67.5-60.5; Eye & ENT 67-61. Good games and series - N. Boniface 190499; A. Tasker 142-386; Y. Cheeseman 161; B. Norris 125-349; J. Pettengill 141-363; N. Potter 165; L. Elliston 224-549; T. Christopher 175. Thusday Angels Rock-N-Bowlers 79.5-44.5; Miller Farm Repair 78-46; More’s Apts. 75-49; Hastings Bowl 70.5-53.5; Cathy’s Cut & Curl 65-59; Riverfront Fin. Ser. 65-59; Varney’s Const. 52-72. High Games and Series - T. Dickinson 155; R. Argo 140; J. Wood 156; C. Cooper 190-527; P. McDiarmid 172; C. Hurless 158; J. Gasper 191-514; M. Miller 159; J. Wyant 155; C. Gdula 159; A. Castelein 217-579; K. Shumway 189; C. Doornbos 204-551; M. Moore 161; N. Taylor 130; L. Apsey 174; B. Cuddahee 203-519; C. Shellenbarger 152; N. Newton 154; Colleen S. 183-509; J. Moore 164; B. Noteboom 182. Sat. Majors (youth league) Leones 56-32; Strikers 52-36; Zombies 44.5-43.5; Hastings Bowl 42.5-45.5; Whatever 36.5-51.5; Great Balls of Fire 32.555.5. Girls Good Games and Series - C. Roush 142-410; S. Gross 100. Boys Good Games and Series - J. Johnson 167-401; T. Cheeseman 106-255; K. Kenyon 134-364; J. Elliott 132-312. SAXON WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE Complete online schedule at: www.hassk12.org THURSDAY, APRIL 19 Boys Boys Girls Boys Girls Varsity Varsity Fresh. Varsity Varsity Golf Baseball Softball Track Track WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25 Forest Hills Eastern HS GR Catholic Central Sparta HS DH Thornapple-Kellogg HS Thornapple-Kellogg HS A A A A A Maple Valley MS Maple Valley MS H H East Kentwood HS DH East Kentwood HS DH Saxon Invitational Hastings Invitational Saxon Invitational A A H H H Thornapple-Kellogg HS South Christian HS South Christian HS Thorn.-Kellogg HS DH GR Catholic Central GR Catholic Central A H A A H H Ottawa Hills HS Thorn.-Kellogg HS DH Thorn.-Kellogg HS DH Thorn.-Kellogg HS DH Thorn.-Kellogg HS DH South Christian HS South Christian HS A A H A H H H FRIDAY, APRIL 20 4:15 PM Boys MS 4:15 PM Girls MS Track Track SATURDAY, APRIL 21 10:00 AM 10:00 AM 10:00 AM 10:00 AM 10:00 AM Boys Boys Boys Girls Girls Varsity JV Fresh. Varsity Fresh. Baseball Baseball Baseball Tennis Softball Boys Girls Girls Boys Girls Girls JV Varsity JV Fresh. JV Varsity Golf Tennis Tennis Baseball Soccer Soccer TUESDAY, APRIL 24 3:45 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:30 PM 4:30 PM Boys Boys Boys Girls Girls Boys Girls Varsity Varsity JV Varsity JV Varsity Varsity Golf Baseball Baseball Softball Softball Track Track Boys Girls Girls Boys Boys Girls Girls Girls Varsity Varsity JV Fresh. MS MS JV Varsity Golf Tennis Tennis Baseball Track Track Soccer Soccer GR Catholic Central Ottawa Hills HS Ottawa Hills HS GR Catholic Central DH Lakewood/Ionia @ Lkwd Lakewood/Ionia @ Lkwd Thornapple-Kellogg HS Thornapple-Kellogg HS A A H H A A A A Hastings HS Saxon JV Inv Plainwell HS Otsego HS Plainwell HS Thornapple-Kellogg HS Harper Crk Comm HS DH Ottawa Hills HS Ottawa Hills HS Hudsonville HS Hudsonville HS H A A H H H A A A A THURSDAY, APRIL 26 MONDAY, APRIL 23 3:45 PM 4:00 PM 4:00 PM 4:15 PM 5:00 PM 6:30 PM 3:45 PM 4:00 PM 4:00 PM 4:15 PM 4:30 PM 4:30 PM 5:00 PM 6:45 PM HASTINGS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS Contact Nancy 945-2742 or hastingsathleticboosters@gmail.com to sponsor the schedule 3:45 PM 4:00 PM 4:00 PM 4:00 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:30 PM 4:30 PM 5:30 PM 7:00 PM Boys Girls Girls Girls Boys Girls Boys Girls Girls Girls JV Varsity JV JV Varsity Varsity Varsity Varsity JV Varsity Golf Tennis Softball Tennis Baseball Softball Track Track Soccer Soccer Times and dates subject to change Thanks to This Week’s Sponsor: Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, P.C. “Quality Care with Compassion” 840 Cook Rd. Hastings, MI 49058 Phone: 269-945-9520 Toll Free: 800-596-1005 Contact us on the web @ www.hoc-mi.com 06778695 3:45 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:30 PM 4:30 PM “It feels good until we get into our league. I think we start off with Lansing Catholic if I remember right. That’ll show us how good we are,” Hassett said of his girls’ 4-0 start. The Vikings opened league duals at home against Corunna Tuesday, with both the boys and girls falling to the Cavaliers. The Vikings will host Lansing Catholic this coming Tuesday. The Lakewood ladies won 13 of the 17 events Thursday. Jemison took the high jump as well as the two throws. She won the shot put with a mark of 32-7 and the discus at 1073. She was one of four girls to win multiple individual events. Ellie Reynolds and Mycah Ridder each won two for Lakewood. Reynolds won the 100-meter hurdles in 17.54 seconds and the 300-meter low hurdles in 54.75. Ridder took the 100-meter dash in 13.21 seconds and the 200 in 28.14. Maple Valley’s Jessica Rushford was the other two-time winner. She dominated the distance races, winning the 1600-meter run in 5 minutes 33.8 seconds and the 3200-meter run in 13:33.7. Lakewood also had Elizabeth Reynolds win the 800-meter run in 2:46.7 and Alexis Kosten take the 400-meter dash in 1:06.8. The Vikings swept the four relays as well, winning the 3200-meter race in 11:07.5, the 800 in 1:57.99, the 400 in 53.21 and the 1600 in 4:34.6. The day’s other champs were Maple Valley’s Jadelyn Stewart and Alicia Ramsey. Ramsey won the long jump with a mark of 13-10.5, and Stewart edged DeJong on attempts in the pole vault as both girls cleared the bar at 8-0. The only winners for the Lakewood boys team were Kauffman and Cody Collins, who took the 400-meter dash in 55.43. There were personal bests and season bests throughout the Lakewood boys’ and girls’ line-ups though. Maple Valley’s boys and Pennfield’s boys split the four relay championships on the day, with Maple Valley winning the 3200 in 9:12.9 and the 1600 in 3:46.1. Pennfield won the 400-meter relay in 46.3 and the 800 in 1:36.68. “A good start. I was happy. I saw some competitiveness out of some kids that was exciting, very exciting,” Lion head coach Brian Lincoln said. “It looks like we’re right back in the hurdles, which I thought we would be.” Lakewood’s Ashley Jemison tries to clear the bar in the high jump competition during Thursday afternoon’s Lakewood Tri against Maple Valley and Pennfield. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Lincoln was also especially pleased with wins in the 3200-meter relay and the 1600meter relay, noting that anchors Kyle Spencer and Tyler Brumm ran excellent legs. Spencer chased down “Spencer in the 4x800, running that kid down from about 50-meters behind I thought that was impressive,” Lincoln said. “Tyler Brumm anchoring the 4x400 there, he went after it. It was nice to see all four of those kids compete, all four of the kids on the 4x400 really competed hard and got the win.” State medalist Garrett Reid took three individual events for the Lions, winning the long jump at 20-8.5 as well as the 100 in 11.56 and the 200 in 23.85. Ryan Nisse won the hurdles for Maple Valley’s boys, taking the 110-meter high hurdles in 17.78 and the 300-meter intermediate hurdles in 45.22. Maple Valley also had Spencer win the 1600 in 5:12.9 and Keegan Yost win the shot put with a mark of 47-2. Pennfield had Brian Dregne win the pole vault by clearing 11-6 and the 800-meter run with a time of 2:08.1, Brendon Clements win the 3200-meter run in 12:01.0 and Nicoliason win the discus with a mark of 134-7. Lakewood opened the league season Tuesday, with the boys falling 97-40 to Corunna. The Viking girls’ suffered their first loss in a dual this season, as the Cavaliers scored a 78-54 win. Lakewood’s boys had just three victories, with the 800-meter relay team winning its by half a second in 1:39.15, Carr taking the high jump at 5-10 and Collins winning the ople vault by clearing 10-0. Lakewood’s ladies had a little more success. Ridder and Ellie Reynolds won two individual events each. Ridder took the 100 in 13.36 and the 200 in 27.71. Ellie Reynolds took the 100-meter hurdles in 16.87 and the 300-meter low hurdles in 52.97. Lakewood also had Jemison win the discus with a mark of 104-2.5 and the 800-meter relay team win in 1:54.82. LHS wins 3-setters for win over Saxons by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Lakewood’s varsity girls’ tennis team clinched a 5-3 non-conference win over Hastings Thursday with the fourth doubles team of Whitney Beglin and Louise Gross pulling out a third-set tie-breaker to end the evening. The Vikings won three three-set matches in the dual, and also got straight-set wins from Hannah Morris and Brooke Fox at first and second singles. “It was about as close a match as you’d want to have,” said Lakewood head coach Martin Snoap. “It was great competition.” In two of those three-set wins, the Vikings dropped the first set. Beglin and Gross fell 46 in the first set against the Saxons’ Kara Cuncannan and Meg Travis, but rallied to win the second 6-4, then won the fourth set 7-6(2). Things weren’t as tight in the first two sets of the third singles match. Hastings’ Sara Thornburgh topped the Vikings’ Sunshine Young 6-0 in the opening set, but then Young took the second 6-0. The two girls battled through a tight third set, which Young eventually pulled out 6-4. The other three-setter was at second doubles, where the Viking team of Lexi Fetterman and Mary Wernet topped Hastings’ Erica Krouse and Tessa Johnson 6-3, 5-7, 6-4. Those three three-setters were the final matches off the court. Hastings built a 3-1 lead in the first three matches to finish. The Saxons’ Abby VanDiver downed Sarah Campeau 6-0, 6-0 at fourth singles, and Hastings got wins from the first doubles team of Sarah Sleevi and Kelsi Harden and the third doubles team of Emma Anderson and Kaitlin Allan. Sleevi and Harden topped Heather Kennedy and Mariah Krikke 6-1, 61. Anderson and Allan won 6-1`, 6-2 against Olivia Bala and Heather Rice. In the top singles matches, Morris downed Hannah Smith 6-1, 6-3 at number one and Fox downed Tara Rowe 6-2, 6-1. The Saxons are 0-2 on the season. They dropped their O-K Gold Conference opener against Grand Rapids Catholic Central Monday, 7-1. VanDiver had the lone win for the Saxons, topping Katie Pniewski 7-6, 1-6, 6-1 in the third singles match. Those were the only two sets the Saxons won in the dual. The Vikings are now 2-0-1 on the season. They opened Capital Area Activities Conference White Division play with a 7-1 win in a dual that was much closer than the final team score indicated against Corunna Tuesday at Lakewood High School. The Vikings’ top three singles players won without much trouble, as Morris at first sin- Vikings unbeaten in duals heading into conference play Lakewood’s varsity boys’ golf team improved to 3-0 in head-to-head match-ups this season by knocking off Lowell and Kenowa Hills at Deer Run Golf Club Tuesday. The Viking team fired a round of 157l, while Kenowa Hills finished at 165 and host Lowell tallied a 174. Adam Barker and Jade Bosworth each scored a 38 to lead the way for Lakewood. “Adam’s iron play was very solid, hitting six greens in regulation. Jade made 5 up-anddowns and only had 13 putts for the nine holes,” said Viking head coach Carl Kutch. Bosworth’s round included a pair of birdies. Behind the top two for the Vikings, Kyler Clark scored a 39 and Ben Ridder and Blake Yaeger added 42s. The Vikings head to Corunna Thursday for the first league jamboree of the season. Lakewood saw a league foe for the first time Saturday, at the Ovid-Elsie Invitational at The Emerald in St. Johns. Williamston took the championship, scoring a 333. Lakewood was 11 strokes behind its league rivals in third place, with a 344. Ithaca was second with a 339 in the ten-team competition. Lakewood had two medalists, Barker who shot an 80 to finish in a tie for third, and Bosworth who’s 86 put him in a tie for tenth. “Our team score was higher than I anticipated,” Kutch said. “It is early in the season, and we have work to do to get back in stride with how we finished last year. We had too many ‘trouble holes’ today.” Barker didn’t have too many. He putted well, making seven up-and-downs in a round that included three birdies. The Vikings also got an 88 from Royce Everts and a 90 from Clark. St. Charles’ Dustin Pumford was the day’s top player, shooting a 74. DJ Wait from Williamston was second with a 78. Behind the top three teams, St. Charles finished with a 354, Byron 377, Owosso 378, Perry 378, Hemlock 392, Ovid-Elsie 395 and Freeland 423. The Vikings opened their season Thursday, topping Charlotte 166 to 205 at Centennial Acres in Sunfield. Barker led the Vikings with a 40. Ridder and Bosworth added 41s and the Vikings also got 44s from Clark and Yaeger. gles and Fox at second singles won 6-0, 6-0 victories. Young at third singles scored a 6-0, 6-1 victory. Lakewood swept the four doubles flights, but all four matches were extremely close. The team of Kennedy and Krikke scored a 63, 7-6(2) win over Tailor Fronek and Billie Carroll at first doubles. At second doubles, Fetterman and Wernet defeated Rebecca Whalen and Gabriella Wesseldyk 6-7(5), 6-2, 6-4. The third doubles match also went three sets, with Rice and Bala beating Stacey Nanasy and Kylie Perrin 7-6(5), 7-6(2). At fourth doubles, Beglin and Katherine Altoft scored a tight 7-5, 6-4 win over Elizabeth Follen and Marie Keith. The lone Corunna victory was in a close match as well, with Alexa Smith at fourth singles edging Campeau 6-7(5), 6-4, 7-6(4). Saxons sixth at first Gold jamboree bWayland edged Hastings on a tie-breaker to earn the fifth spot at the first O-K Gold Conference varsity boys’ golf jamboree of the season Tuesday at Broadmoor in Caledonia. South Christian took the day’s championship with a score of 157. Forest Hills Eastern was 11 strokes back with a 168, with the host Fighting Scots right behind the Hawks with a 171. Grand Rapids Catholic Central was fourth with a 185, followed by Wayland 186, Hastings 186, Thornapple Kellogg 190 and Ottawa Hills NTS. Danny Buehler led Hastings with a 38, and the Saxons also got a 45 from Taylor Klotz and a 49 from Fredrik Isgard. Logan Barrett and Travis Matthews added 54s for Hastings. The day’s top round was a 36 from South Christian’s Ben Cook. Forest Hills Eastern was led by Mike Behm’s 38. Griff Billlups and Devon Reininger added 43s for the Hawks and Jonah Anderson and Cody Reinke both shot 44. Thornapple Kellogg’s boys were led by Graham Lince, who shot a 46. The Trojans also got a 47 from Alex Koetsier, a 48 from Josh VanSickle and a 49 from Ben Jazwinski. The Sailors also got a 39 from Ben Elenbaas, a 40 from Nick VanderHorst and a 42 from Kade Hoeksema. The league gets together again Thursday when Forest Hills Eastern plays host at Egypt Valley. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, April 19, 2012 — Page 15 Maple Valley and Olivet teams honor fallen coach by Brett Bremer Sports Editor “The game was the game, but there was more to the game than that,” said Maple Valley varsity girls’ soccer coach Chris Ricketts after his team’s 4-2 loss to Olivet at Fuller Street Field Wednesday. It was an emotional evening from the getgo for the Lions and Eagles, as they remembered coach Larry Denniston who was murdered March 31. Larry Denniston, a former Olivet coach became an assistant with the Lions last spring. The two teams walked arm-in-arm onto the field before the start of the game, and heard a prayer from Ricketts. The two teams shared a dinner after the contest, a tradition that Denniston actually started last spring. It was the first game for the two teams since Denniston was found dead in Branch County April 1. “Of all the teams to play, we were pleased that it was Olivet,” Ricketts said. The visiting Eagles built a 3-0 lead in the game before the Lions responded with second-half goals by Breanna Heinze and Gretchen Hakenjos. “The second half we really played, probably the best our team has ever played,” Ricketts said. Olivia Ricketts started in goal for the Lions, and moved to the field in the second half providing an offensive spark. Coach Ricketts said he was also especially pleased with the play of midfielders Shennondoah Fighter and Alexis Lamance. “I saw the kids really enjoying what they were doing, because they knew they were making some big-time plays,” Ricketts said. The Lions were moving the ball well and moving it quickly. It’s early in this season yet, but many of the youngsters on the team were already talking about how good the team could be next spring Caledonia baseball sweeps three-game set with Saxons Maple Valley’s Emma McGlocklin (right) tries to get around Olivet’s Mandi McKeown during their contest Wednesday evening in Nashville. (Photo by Perry Hardin) DK track teams top K-Christian Delton Kellogg’s varsity girls’ track and field team picked up its first win of the season Tuesday, topping Kalamazoo Christian in the teams’ Kalamazoo Valley Association dual at Delton Kellogg High School. The Delton girls are now 1-1 in the KVA, while the Delton boys improved to 2-0 in the league with their victory over the Comets. The Delton Kellogg girls topped the Comets 86-42, winning all four relay races and seven of the 13 individual events. No one scored in the girls’ pole vault competition. Andrea Polley and Jolene Drum were both a part of four Panther victories. They teamed up with Faith Ferris and Nicole Thompson to win the 1600-meter relay in 4 minutes 51.31 seconds. Polley also joined Thompson, Alicia Lindsey and Morgen Leonard in winning the 800-meter relay in 2:05.37. Drum was a part of the Panthers’ 3200-meter relay win, teaming with Marcie Stevens, Sammi Cleary and Kristen Mohn to win in 11:49.69. Drum also took the 800-meter run in 2:45.5 and the 1600 in 5:58.65. Polley won the two hurdle events, taking the 100-meter hurdles in 17.65 seconds and the 300-meter low hurdles in 52.24. In the 400-meter relay, the Delton team of Lindsey, Katie Hayward, Leonard and Thompson finished first in 55.81. The Panthers’ three other victories came in the field, with Ferris taking the high jump at 4 feet 3 inches, Hayward winning the long jump at 13-11, and Mallory Sewell taking the shot put with a throw of 31-8.5. Sarah Street was the top performer for the Comets, winning the sprints. She took the 100-meter dash in 13.28, the 200 in 28.47 and the 400 in 1:02.78. The Delton Kellogg boys won 14 events on their way to a 104-33 victory over the Comets. Those 14 wins included sweeps of three events, the 100, the 200 and the pole vault. Brummel and Eckhoff sweep running events for TK boys There are eight individual events on the track among the 17 events in a high school track and field meet. Each athlete can participate in four events total. Thornapple Kellogg senior Dustin Brummel and sophomore Tanin Eckhoff split the eight individual running events among them Tuesday, helping TK’s varsity boys’ track and field team to its first O-K Gold Conference victory of the season. Brummel, a senior who signed his National Letter of Intent Wednesday to join the Davenport University Men’s Cross Country and Track and Field programs, had a huge day for the Trojans. Running the 400-meter dash for the first time, he took first place with a time of 52.82 seconds. Brummel won every individual race that was longer than 400 meters too, taking the 800 in 2 minutes 9.09 seconds, the 1600 in 4:44.62 and the 3200 in 10:37.07. The sophomore, Eckhoff, matched matched Brummel’s four wins, sweeping the races shorter than the 400. He took the 100meter dash in 11.40, the 200 in 23.62, the 110-meter high hurdles in 15.75 and the 300meter intermediate hurdles in 42.43. The Trojans needed all of those wins as the Wildcats swept the four relays and only finished six points behind, 71.5 to 65.5. TK improves to 1-0-1 in the leauge with the win. Thornapple Kellogg’s girls also scored a win Tuesday, moving their record to 2-0 in the league by topping the Wildcats 107-29. Tray Mahon swept the throws for the TK boys, taking the shot put with a mark of 43 feet 8 inches and firing the discus 148-4. TK also had Kenny Stahl take the long jump at 18-10 and Kyle Kraus the pole vault by clearing 10-0. The lone individual win for the Wildcat boys came in the high jump, where Nick Shuster cleared 6-3. Thornapple Kellogg’s girls spread the wins around a little more, with four girls each winning two individual events. Erin Ellinger took the shot put with a mark of 34-5 and the discus at 111-7. Molly Lark was the long jump champion at 14-3, and added a win in the 400-meter dash with a time of 1:03.82. Casey Lawson won the 1600 in 6:05.25 and the 3200 in 12:45.52. In the sprints it was Fiona Shea taking the 100 in 13.07 and the 200 in 27.54. On the track, TK also had Heather Raymond win the 100-meter hurdles in 17.91, Morgan McNutt win the 300-meter low hurdles in 53.46 and Grace Possett win the 800 in 2:31.30. In the field, TK added a win in the high jump with Paige Eyk clearing 4-10. TK took three of the four relays. Lawson, if they continue on the path of improvement they’re currently on. Ricketts was pleased with that positive attitude, and gave much of the credit for the recent growth of the program to coach Denniston. Kayti Case had two goals in the win for Olivet, and Chelsea Meeker and Kaylyn Westlake added one each. Denniston was allegedly murdered by a cousin, Lauren O’Melay who was arraigned in Calhoun County District Court last week, during a property dispute in Calhoun County’s Marengo Township. Taylor Ward, Emily Chatterson and Possett won the 3200-meter relay in 11:01.48. Raymond, McNutt, Eyk and Possett teamed to win the 400-meter relay in 55.71. The team of Lark, Lauren Grinage, Shea and Possett won the 1600-meter relay in 4:31.49. The Trojan girls topped Grand Rapids Catholic Central 85-51 in their league dual at Houseman Field in Grand Rapids Thursday, but the Trojan and Cougar boys’ teams finished the evening in a 66-66 tie as neither team scored in the 400-meter relay. The Thornapple Kellogg girls won half the four relays and swept the three scoring places in each of the throwing events to finish well ahead of the Cougars. Erin Ellinger took both throws for TK, winning the discus with a mark of 112 feet 3 inches and the shot put at 37-0. DJ Minor was second the discus at 899 and third in the shot put at 31-5-5. Aimee Ellinger placed third in the discus at 87-7 and second in the shot put at 31-8.5. Shea and Lawson also both won two events for TK. Lawson took the distance races, winning the 1600-meter run in 5:56.10 and the 3200 in 12:38.0. Shea won the sprints, finishing the 100-meter dash in 13.00 seconds and the 200 in 27.00. TK also had Lark win the 400 in 1:06.50 and Heather Raymond win the 100-meter hurdles in 17.50. In the relays, TK won the 800-meter race with a time of 2:04.80 and the 1600 in 4:30.30. Catholic Central won three field events, with Emily Prins taking the high jump by clearing 4-8, Jordan Zienke winning the pole vault by clearing 8-6, and Johanna Samson winning the long jump with a mark of 15-7.5. Prins also won the 300-meter low hurdles in 50.20. The other Cougar winner in an individual event on the track was Addie Johnson, who won the 800-meter run in 2:35.0. Thornapple Kellogg’s boys also swept the two throws in their dual with the Cougars. Tray Mahon won each, taking the discus at 153-5 and the shot put at 44-7.5. The Cougars made up for that in part by winning all three relays where the teams finished, taking the 800-meter relay in 1:36.90, the 1600-meter relay in 3:40.30 and the 3200meter relay in 8:49.90. TK’s boys took a third field event, with Eckhoff winning the high jump by clearing 60. Eckhoff was one of two TK boys to win three individual events. He took the 110meter high hurdles in 15.50 and the 200meter dash in 23.70. Brummel won three too, winning the 800-meter run in 2:06.20, the 1600 in 4:50.10 and the 3200 in 10:19.5. Adam May led the way for the Delton boys in the sweeps of the 100 and the 200, winning the 100 in 11.48 and the 200 in 24.68. May also helped the Panthers win the two sprint relays. He teamed with Connor Wolschleger, Tyler Dempsey and Franklin James to win the 800-meter relay in 1:38.84. It was the team of May, James, Wolschleger and Brandon Robbins that won the 400-meter relay in 47.06. Robbins was another four-time winner, also teaming with Watson, Dempsey and Wolschleger to win the 1600-meter relay in 3:48.31, and winning the two hurdle races. He took the 110-meter high hurdles in 16.46 and the 300-meter intermediate hurdles in 43.34. In the 3200-meter relay, it was the Delton team of Zach Haas, Calhoun, Logan Hansen and Dempsey finishing first in 9:25.24. Watson added two individual wins for the Panthers, taking the high jump by clearing 58 and winning the 1600 in 4:49.51. DK also had Anthony Bates win the discus with a throw of 105-1, Wolschleger take the long jump at 18-3, Brady Mills win the pole vault by clearing 11-0, and Phoenix Pease win the 400 in 54.81. The Delton teams were also in action Friday, at the Olivet Lions Relays. The Delton boys finished second, just two points behind the champions from Folwer. The Delton Kellogg girls were fourth in the five-team meet. Fowler took the boys’ title with 80 points. Delton was second with 78, followed by Olivet 66.5, Coldwater 53 and Potterville 31.5. Delton’s boys won two of the five field events, with May and Wolschleger teaming up for a mark of 36-8.75 in the long jump and Watson and Austin Ketola clearing 11-4 combined in the high jump. On the track, the Delton team of Billy Schut, Robbins, Mike Bassett and Pease took the shuttle hurdle relay in 1:04.82. Haas, Dempsey, Ketola and Watson took the 3200meter relay in 8:51.96. The Panthers also won two 400-meter relays. The team of Lucas Hansen, Cole Mabie, Scott Collier and Gary Egelkraut won the Frosh 400 in 51.23, and Bassett, James, Pease and Wolschleger won the 400-meter relay in 46.80. Fowler also won the girls’ meet with 90 points. Olivet was second with 78, followed by Coldwater 52, Delton Kellogg 48 and Potterville 37. The Delton girls’ lone championship came in the Sprint Medley, where the team of Thompson, Hayward, Drum and Polley finished in 2:02.95. Caledonia’s varsity baseball team beat up on Hastings a little bit in the first week of the O-K Gold Conference season. The Fighting Scots mercied the Saxons twice in their league opening double header in Caledonia Wednesday, then topped the Saxons in Hastings 5-1 Thursday afternoon. Mitch Horgan shut the Saxons down for five innings, allowing just two hits and one earned run. He struck out nine and did walk four. Ethan Merril came on in relief to get the win, and Alex Holzgen also pitched an inning of relief for the Scots. Saxon pitcher Nicholas Replogle took a shut out into the sixth inning for the Saxons, but some timely hitting from the Caledonia bats turned a 1-0 Saxon lead into a 2-1 deficit. Saxon softball evens record with wins over the Cougars Hastings’ varsity softball team evened its O-K Gold Conference record at 2-2 with a sweep of Grand Rapids Catholic Central in the doubleheader between the two teams in Hastings Tuesday. Katie DeVries hit a single with the bases loaded in the bottom of the sixth inning in game one to break open a tight game. Her drive to the right center field gap with plated three runs after Anna Cooley, Stevie Pennepacker and Marissa Adams hit consecutive singles to load the bases. Hastings led 73 after her big hit, then went on to an 8-3 win. Adams and DeVries both had a single and stolen base in the first inning as the Saxons built a 2-0 lead. DeVries drove home Adams, and DeVries eventually came home on a single off the bat of Farrah Salazar. Catholic Central tied the game at 2-2 in the top of the second, but Hastings took the lead back with Lexi Clow driving in Salazar from third with a ground-out in the bottom of the third. Laken Meade pitched for the Saxons, allowing just four hits and striking out seven Catholic Central batters. The Saxons took game two 7-3, with Meade providing another solid pitching performance. She struck out six and allowed six hits. The Cougars scored first in game two, getting a run in the first inning, but Hastings exploded for six runs in the second to take control. Clow had a pair of singles in the inning, and Pennepacker, Shelby Price and DeVries had one each. The Saxons also got the help of a couple of Cougar errors in the rally. Cooley, who walked and scored a run in the second-inning surge, added her first varsity home run in the fifth by driving the ball over the center field fence. Catholic Central tacked on single runs in the fifth and the seventh as well. Hastings is now 6-6 on the season. The Saxons opened O-K Gold Conference play with a pair of losses at Caledonia Thursday, falling 9-4 and 21-4 to the host Scots. In game one, Caledonia scored three runs in its last at-bat to break open a close game with the Saxons. Clow had two hits in the game, while DeVries and Salazar both had hits. In game two Caledonia pounded out 14 hits to earn the mercy win over the Saxons in five innings. Meade had s single and a double in the game two loss, and Pennepacker added two RBI. Hastings earned its first two wins Wednesday, sweeping a non-conference doubleheader with Kelloggsville. Hastings won game one 7-2, then took the second game 10-4. In game one the Saxons scored in every inning but the sixth with a hitting attack led by Meade and Cooley who had two hits each. Meade was the winning pitcher as she allowed just one hit while striking out six and walking five. In game two with the Rockets, the Saxons scored five runs in their last at-bat to open up a close game for the 10-4 win. DeVries had three hits in the game that included a triple and two RBI. Salazar had three RBI in the game. Meade got her second win of the day on the mound by allowing just five hits while striking out two and allowing one walk. In between the two league doubleheaders, the Saxons went 1-1 at their own Barry County Invitational Saturday. Comets get pair of saves in shoot-out to beat DK girls Despite two stops, the Panthers still had some life left as Kalamazoo Christian sent its LHS baseball finds offense in game two against Orioles by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Things weren’t looking great for the Vikings heading into game two of their double header with Charlotte Thursday. Lakewood’s varsity baseball team dropped its season opener 12-6 to the visiting Orioles, getting just six hits in the process. The Orioles saved their ace pitcher, Bryan Reed, for the night-cap. The Vikings figured something out between games one and two though. They hit Reed for nine runs in the first inning and went on to an 11-5 win in a game that was shortened to four innings because of darkness. Zach Kilbourn, Alex Caudy and Alex Potter had two RBI each for the Vikings in the game two victory. Kilbourn, Caudy and Luke Richmond had two hits each. “We didn’t make a bunch of errors. We ran the bases really well, and we came around offensively in the second game,” said Caledonia would then tack on three more runs in the top of the seventh to secure the win and sweep the opening series. Mitchell Kolanowski generated the first run for the Saxons, drawing a lead-off walk, stealing second and third before scoring on a wild pitch to put the Saxons up 1-0. Kolanowski would finish with a pair of singles in the game and Davin Greenfield added a base hit to account for the three Saxon hits. Replogle started and pitched the complete game scattering 7 hits while striking out 7. Caledonia had seven different players hit singles in the win, with Heather Hoogerhyde going 1-for-2 with a walk and two runs scored. Holzgen, Kail Venema and Josh Chandler had the three Caledonia RBI’s. Lakewood head coach Keith Carpenter. “We did some good things. We’ve just got to keep working at it.” Richmond pitched the Vikings to the win, striking out seven while allowing six hits in his four innings of work. The Vikings were off balance against the Orioles’ starter in the first game. Charlotte broke out to a 6-1 lead after two innings. Lakewood rallied for two runs in the third, but the Orioles took control of the game again with five more runs in the fifth. Alex Schuiling started on the mound for the Vikings, and allowed six runs on six hits and five walks in four innings of work. He struck out six. Austin Bronson took the loss, giving up six runs on five hits in his three innings on the mound. He struck out five. Kilbourn led the Lakewood offense, going 3-for-5 with a double and an RBI. Richmond had a triple and two runs batted in. fifth shooter to the line in a penalty kick shoot out Wednesday. The Comets’ Josie Nieboer though got her shot by Panther keeper Carlye Hammond, clinching a 2-1 Kalamazoo Valley Association win for Kalamazoo Christian in the conference opener between the two teams. Keeper Allison Snowden made two saves in the shoot-out to help the Comets to the win after the two teams battled through regulation and then two overtime sessions tied 1-1. Jaime Risner put the Delton Kellogg girls up 1-0 with a penalty kick four and a half minutes before half-time. The Panthers held that lead through most of the second half, until Kaylee Bunker knotted the score with a goal for the Comets with 13:01 left to play in regulation. Risner, Christi Boze and Sara Rendon got shots past the Comet keeper in the shoot-out. Hammond made 13 saves in the contest for Delton, while Snowden stopped five shots on the other end. Delton Kellogg was slated to head to Kalamazoo again Wednesday for another tough league match-up with Hackett Catholic Central, and will be back in action at home against Harper Creek Friday. The Panthers head to Three Rivers Monday, the return to conference play with a game at home against Pennfield Wednesday. �Page 16 — Thursday, April 19, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Trojans take advantage of chances to win tourney Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity baseball team shows off its hardware after topping host Hastings 5-3 in the championship game of Saturday’s Barry County Invitational. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Delton Kellogg’s Nick Brindley bounces the ball towards the right side during the bottom of the sixth inning of his team’s consolation game against Lakewood at Saturday’s Barry County Invitational in Hastings. (Photo by Brett Bremer) by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Trojans didn’t have a win before Saturday. Now they have a trophy. Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity baseball team knocked off host Hastings 5-3 in the championship game of Saturday’s Barry County Invitational, improving to 2-5 on the season with the victory over the Saxons. “It is special,” said TK head coach Jack Hobert. “I wanted to win. (Hastings head coach) Marsh (Evans) has been like a father to me. I’ve coached with him for 16 years. Coming back to my stomping grounds, I won’t lie to you, I wanted it pretty bad.” The Trojans had to put together an amazing comeback in their opening round win over Lakewood to get the chance to meet the Saxons in the championship game. They rallied from a 6-2 deficit with four runs in the bottom of the seventh inning against the Vikings, then went on to a 7-6 eight-inning victory. Garrett Harris scored the game-tying run for the Trojans in the bottom of the seventh inning, coming home on a strike out/passed ball with two outs. That capped off a four-run rally for TK, which included three walks an infield single by Cody Ybema and a two-run single off the bat of Dylan VanPutten. Ybema reached on another strike out/passed ball with one out in the bottom of the eighth, and advanced from first to third when the ball got away from the Viking catcher again after a strike-out by the Trojans’ Nick Iveson. With two out, TK lead-off hitter Brendon Hudson drove home the winning run with a single over the Viking first baseman’s head. “I have never seen a better at-bat than what Brendon Hudson had at the end of that game. I think it was a 13-pitch at-bat, and he drives in the winning run. It was tremendous. We made eye contact a couple of times. We just smiled at each other. It was a good moment, one of the best I’ve ever seen. I’m excited,” Hobert said. Donald Leonard, one of three freshmen in the Trojan line-up Saturday, earned the win in relief of starter Dalton Phillips. He put the Vikings down 1-2-3 in the seventh and eighth. Hudson, VanPutten, Harris and Iveson had two hits each in that win, with Hudson, VanPutten and Jordan Timm each driving in two runs. Lakewood’s Jack Tromp was 1-for-2 with two RBI in the loss, while teammates Alex Potter, Alex Schuiling and Alex Caudy had two hits each. TK sealed the win in the championship game with Hastings by scoring three runs in the bottom of the fifth. Ybema and VanPutten singled and they both came home on a oneout double by Alex Roy. Caden Francisco followed Roy to the plate and drove him home with an RBI single. “We finally got the big hit that we have been lacking all year. These kids were gutty. They stayed in there in the box, got great cuts and we finally broke through with some big hits,” Hobert said. Roy had three RBI in the win over the Saxons, also driving in Nate Iveson who doubled to lead-off the bottom of the third. TK’s first run came on an RBI single off the bat of Phillips in the bottom of the second, which plated VanPutten who’d walked to start the inning. The Trojans’ fifth-inning rally broke a 2-2 tie. Hastings took a 2-1 lead with two runs in the top of the third. Brandon Redman, Mitch Kolanowski and Michael Eastman had singles in the Saxons’ two-run rally there. Hastings got its final run in the top of the Lakewood shortstop Brendan Stahl fires towards first to complete a double play for the Vikings in the bottom of the fifth inning of their contest with Thornapple Kellogg at Saturday’s Barry County Invitational in Hastings. (Photo by Brett Bremer) sixth on an RBI fly-out off the bat of Jake Swartz, which sent home Eastman from third. Eastman and Tyler Stolicker started the inning with back-to-back singles for the Saxons. “Middleville has a very good club coming back. It was a good high school game. A couple situations they had kids come through in those situations,” said Hastings head coach Marsh Evans. “The big two-run double really broke our back. But, our kids hung in there. I think as our pitching rounds into form, I think we’re happy. We lost today, but I’m happy with the direction we’re going.” Harris earned the win in the championship game for TK, striking out four Saxons and Saxon second baseman John Parker spins to fire to first base after forcing out Thornapple Kellogg’s Cody Ybema at second base during the bottom of the sixth inning of the championship game at Saturday’s Barry County Invitational. (Photo by Brett Bremer) allowing five singles in six innings of work innings picking up a pair of strike outs. before VanPutten came on to close out the win Delton got hits from Nick Brindley, Ryan with a 1-2-3 seventh inning. Hook, Zach Eib and Alex Lepird in the loss. Hastings started the day with an 11-2 win Nick Aukerman took the loss on the mound. over Delton Kellogg, scoring six runs in the Lakewood topped the Panthers 7-4 in the bottom of the first and then ending the game consolation game, as Alex Caudy earned the early with five runs in the fifth inning. win for the Vikings. The Saxons put together four straight sinKeegan Moore and Brendan Stahl drove in gles, from Kolanowski, Jon French, Eastman two runs each for the Vikings. Moore earned and Stolicker to go up 3-0 on the Panthers, his two RBI on a double in the bottom of the then got a two-run double off the bat of second inning which put the Vikings in front Redman. Kolanowski eventually drove home 3-1. Stahl had a two-run single in the third Redman with a single in his second at-bat of which put the Vikings back in front 5-3, after the first inning. Delton pulled even with two runs in the top of A two-run double off the bat of Kolanowski the third. was the big hit in the Saxons’ fifth-inning Nick Brindley and Eib had RBI singles for surge. the Panthers in their third inning rally. Travis Sixberry evened his record at 1-1 Brindley was 2-for-3 with a double as well in with four strong innings on the mound for the the loss. Eib also finished with two singles, Saxons. He allowed four hits while striking and scored a run in the seventh on an RBI sinout six. David Pierce pitched the last two gle off the bat of Cody Sevigny. HHS girls beat Scots and Cougars in Gold duals Hastings girls are 3-0 in duals and 2-0 in the O-K Gold Conference after staring the league season with victories over Caledonia and Grand Rapids Catholic Central. The Saxons knocked off the visiting Cougars 89-48 in their conference dual Tuesday in Hastings after scoring a 72.5-64.5 win over the Caledonia girls Thursday. Hastings clinched the meet with the Fighting Scots by winning the final race. Cherie Kosbar, Christy Clark, Rachel Rimer and Nichole Redman teamed up to win the 1600-meter relay for the Saxons in 4 minutes and 28.30 seconds. Caledonia’s girls actually won more events, nine of the 17, but the Saxons won three of the four relays and added enough second- and third-place points to surprise the Scots. Redman won the hurdle races for Hastings, taking the 100-meter hurdles in 17.20 seconds and the 300-meter low hurdles in 50.87. Hastings also had Cherie Kosbar win the 400 in 1:05.80, Amber Myers the 200 in 29.37 and Kaylie Lumbert win the shot put at 31-4. Mara Speer, Clark, Brieanna Sheldon and Myers teamed up to win the 400-meter relay for Hastings in 55.30, and the team of Kosbar, Myers, Speer and Redman won the 800-meter relay in 1:56.70. Rachel Quillen and Trista Straube had two runner-up finishes each for Hastings. Straube was behind the Scots Hannah Schroder in the 1600-meter run and the 3200. Quillen was second in the high jump and the long jump. Cara Murphy and Schroder each won two events for the Scots. Schroder took the 3200meter run in 12:01.20 and the 1600 in 5:33.50. Murphy won the 100-meter dash in 13.30 and the high jump by clearing 5-2. The Scots took four of the five field events, with Caitlyn Hughes winning the pole vault by clearing 9-0, Ericka Bursley winning the discus with a mark of 89-3, and Lauren DeBoer winning the long jump at 13-8.5. The Scots also had Maggie DeJong win the 800-meter run in 2:35.10 and the team of DeJong, Schroder, Bianca Postema and Olivia Bordewyk win the 3200-meter relay in 10:31.02. The defending conference champions from Caledonia won the boys’ meet 94-43. Jacob Comer was the big scorer for the Saxons, winning the 110-meter high hurdles in 15.18, the 300-meter intermediate hurdles in 42.38, and placing second in the pole vault by clearing 12-6. Hastings also had Brandon Bower win the shot put with a mark of 40-6 and the 800meter relay team of Devin Bancroft, Casey Goggins, Conley and Chad Reedy win in 1:35.00. Hastings’ girls got a win by the team of Kosbar, Clark, Rimer and Erin Goggins in the 1600-meter relay Tuesday, as the anchor hit the finish line in 4:30.46, but the win over the Cougars didn’t hinge on that result. That win finished off a sweep of the relays for the Hastings girls in their victory over Catholic Central. The team of Grace Bosma, Rimer, Amanda Sarhatt and Straube won the 3200-meter relay to start the event in 10:35.25. in the 400-meter relay it was the team of Speer, Clark, Sheldon and Myers winning in 54.17, and the team of Kosbar, Myers, Lexi Hickey and Redman won the 800-meter relay in 1:56.94. Quillen edged Redman to win the 100meter hurdles. Quillen finished in 16.98, and Redman in 17.40. Redman took the 300meter low hurdles in 49.71. On the track, the Saxons also had Myers win the 200 in 28.77, Kosbar the 400 in 1:05.08, Bosma the 800 in 2:37.74, and Straube the 1600 in 5:29.65. In the field, the Saxons’ lone win came from Lumbert’s throw of 30-6 in the shot put. The Hastings boys fell to 0-2 in the O-K Gold with their 77-60 loss to the Cougars. “Kids ran great though,” said Saxon coach Andy Keller. “The number of PR’s that are happening per meet is very encouraging, and the kids are having fun.” Comer won the 110-meter high hurdles for the Saxons and the 300-meter intermediate hurdles. Hastings swept all the points in the two throwing events. Mike Pewoski wont he discus, finishing ahead of Comer and Chase Williams. In the shot put, it was Jakob Bower who finished first with Pewoski second and Tony Gibson third. Hastings also had Reedy win the 200 and Joey Siska take the pole vault. The Saxons and Cougars split the relays, with the Hastings team of Bancroft, Stephen Kendall, Goggins and Reedy winning the 800-meter relay and the team of Brandon Johnson, Garrett Bowers, Corey Robbins and Ben Kolanowski winning the 1600-meter relay. In between the two league match-ups, the Saxons hosted the annual Hastings Relays Saturday. The Hastings girls were third with 61 points, finishing behind champion Grand Ledge which finished with 92 points and Grandville which finished with 80. The shuttle hurdle relay was one of the best events of the day for the Saxons. The girls’ team of Quillen, Redman, Sheldon and Taylor Warner was second in that even in 1:11.1. Hastings’ boys, who were eighth in the final standings, won the shuttle hurdle relay with the team of Trevor Zimmerman, Jake Daleman, Mitch Brooks and Comer finishing in 1:08.6. The Saxon boys’ team had two championship performances, with Comer and Siska teaming to win the pole vault with a total height of 26-0. Union City took the boys’ title with 70 points, edging Three Rivers which finished with 58 and third-place Grand Ledge which finished with 50 points. Eagles first to find offense at DK It was a pitchers’ duel until the sixth, and then it wasn’t anymore. Olivet’s varsity baseball team broke open game one of it’s Kalamazoo Valley Association double header at Delton Kellogg with three runs in the sixth inning, then added five runs in the seventh to finish off a 9-1 win over the Panthers. The Eagles then pounded out ten runs in the first inning of game two, on their way to a 15-0 four-inning win in the nightcap. Delton Kellogg falls to 1-3 in the KVA with the two losses. “They can hit the ball and have some very good athletes, including Tanner McCarn who once again made it look easy,” said Delton Kellogg head coach Bill Humphrey. “This was our first chance to see Tanner pitch and he proved to be dominating.” McCarn earned the win in game one, striking out 13 in his six innings of work on the mound. He also paced the Eagle offense, going 4-for-4 at the plate with two singles, a double and a booming home run to left. “I can’t say enough fine things about our starter in game one, Zach Meyers, who attacked the strike zone and kept us in it until the sixth inning when fatigue set in,” Humphrey said. “He has a very good mound presence and the heart of a lion.” Meyers falls to 1-1 with the loss. Olivet had ten hits to the Panthers’ three. The highlight for Delton Kellogg came in the fourth when they tied the game at 1-1 with a steal of home by Jared Buckland. Nick Aukerman, Trey Taylor and Cody Sevigny had singles for the Panthers in the contest. Olivet had nine hits in the four-inning game two victory, and had the help of eight Delton Kellogg errors. Logan Durbin didn’t give up an earned run for the Panthers, but took the loss. Ryan Hook had a single and a double for Delton, while Zach Eib, Logan Durbin and Sevigny added singles. The Panthers are now 1-7 overall. They’ll head to Pennfield for two more league games Friday. Delton opened the league season by taking on Constantine at Constantine last Friday, and scored a 9-3 victory in game one. Constantine came back to win game two 6-4. The Panthers took a 9-0 lead in the opener by scoring in each of the first five innings, including three runs in the fourth and two each in the first and fifth. Eib led the Delton offense, driving in two runs with a double and a pair of singles. Delton also got a pair of singles from Nick Brindley, Jared Buckland, Meyers and Young. Alex Lepird and Nick Aukerman each had one single. Brindley scored two runs, and Buckland, Meyers and Young all had RBIs and Hook had two. Meyers earned the win on the mound for Delton. Constantine rallied from a 3-0 deficit with five runs in the top of the second, then went on to a 6-4 win in game two despite being outhit seven to five by the Panthers. Lepird had two hits and a RBI for Delton. Eib, Meyers and Hook added RBI singles, while Young had a double, Brindley a single. Tony Weston earned the win for the Falcons on the mound in a game that was shortened to five innings because of darkness. Jared Buckland, the first of two Delton pitchers, took the loss. In between the two conference double headers, the Panthers were 0-2 at the Barry County Invitational in Hastings Saturday, falling to the host Saxons and Lakewood. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, April 19, 2012 — Page 17 Lakewood girls hold on against Hastings in final Thornapple Kellogg’s Cassie Clark slides in safely with a steal of third during the bottom of the third inning against Delton Kellogg Saturday in Hastings as Delton shortstop Libby Parker scoops up the throw that got by Panther third baseman Kaysie Hook. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Lakewood’s varsity softball team celebrates its championship at the Barry County Invitational Saturday after topping host Hastings 8-5 in the tournament’s championship game. (Photo by Brett Bremer) by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Pitching was one of the question marks coming into the season for the Lakewood Vikings, but Lakewood’s varsity softball team pulled through Saturday. The Vikings led host Hastings 8-4 heading into the bottom of the fourth inning of the championship game of Saturday’s Barry County Invitational. The Saxons Erika Rozell drilled a one-out single off of Viking starter Brooke Wieland, and that hit was followed by three straight walks to plate a run for the Saxons. After a quick talk with coach Kristin Heinze Wieland started firing again, and got a fly-out and a strike-out to end the Saxon rally with Rozell as the lone Saxon to tough the plate. Hastings got one base runner in each of the last three innings against the Vikings, but none of them got by second base as Wieland and her teammates held on for an 8-5 win. “Pitching-wise, obviously we had some question marks early in the season with (Britteny) Hilley being out, but I’m ecstatic about the way Khila (Hamilton) is throwing the ball, and Brooke is throwing it really well and her confidence is coming around,” said Lakewood head coach Kristin Heinze. “There at the end of the game I think she found what she needs for the rest of the season. She was getting a little rattled and she stuck in there and got the job done. We look for her to definitely do more of that for us. I feel really good about what we can do this season.” Brooke Wieland pitches for Lakewood during the bottom of the second of the championship game against Hastings Saturday at the Barry County Invitational. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The Saxons’ Katie DeVries drills an RBI double during the bottom of the fifth inning of her team’s 12-8 win over Delton Kellogg in the opening game of the Barry County Invitational at Hastings High School Saturday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Lakewood built a 6-0 lead in the first two innings of the championship game against the Saxons. Cori Curtis, Tiffani Ackerson, Taylor Vantland, and Liz Campeau all had singles for the Vikings in their three-run top of the first. Brittany Wallace, Ackerson and Wieland had hits in the three-run second. Wieland’s was an RBI triple. The Vikings then tacked on a run on an RBI double from Derrica Desgranges in the top of the third, which scored Beth Tingley who’d singled earlier in the inning, and a n RBI single from Konnor Geiger in the top of the fourth which followed an Ackerson double and a Wieland single. Wieland gave up just six hits in earning the win, while striking out seven. In between those two Lakewood rallies, Hastings scored four runs in the bottom of the second on RBI singles from Laken Meade and Marissa Adams, and a Lakewood errors. An Anna Cooley single and a walk by Delton Kellogg boys win their own invitational at Mullenhurst Delton Kellogg finished on top of a tenteam field that included five Kalamazoo Valley Association rivals at its Delton Kellogg Invitational Thursday at Mullenhurst. The Panthers’ Mitchell Wandell had the day’s best score, a 69, and the Panther team finished with a score of 325. Schoolcraft was second with a 327, followed by Pennfield 344, Hastings 345, Maple Valley 353, Olivet 371, Marcellus 377, Howardsville Christian 378, Parchment 385 and Quincy 421. “We finally won one,” said Delton Kellogg The Delton Kellogg varsity boys’ golf team of DJ Prater, Zack Simon, Adam Farrah, Mitchell Wandell, Conner Worm, Phillip Mishler and coach Kent Enyart celebrates its win at Thursday’s Delton Kellogg Invitational. Hastings’ Danny Buehler hits in a putt during Thursday’s Delton Kellogg Invitational at Mullenhurst. head coach Kent Enyart. Delton Kellogg had two guys in the top five. Zack Simon was fifth with an 80. Delton also got an 86 from Conner Worm and a 90 from DJ Prater. Hastings was led by Danny Buehler’s fourth-place score of 79, and the Saxons also got an 85 from Taylor Klotz, an 89 from Aaron Williams and a 92 from Fredrik Isgard. Maple Valley had two guys in the top ten, with Caleb Walker second with an 82 and Dale White ninth with an 82. Jacob Clark and Nick Iszler added 98s for Maple Valley. I have attached a couple of pictures and results. Delton team: DJ Prater, Zack Simon, Adam Farrah, Mitchell Wandell, Conner Worm, Phillip Mishler and myself. The other is Danny Buehler from Hastings. Brianne Whiteman started that scoring surge for the Saxons. “We’re looking really good, with good team chemistry,” Heinze said. “We have a lot of seniors on the team, and with having that many seniors you can’t have everybody playing at one time. They’re at the fence and they’re cheering their teammates on and they’re very excited for each other. They want each other to succeed. It’s a very unselfish feel right now. Hopefully that keeps up. I think they understand that there’s a lot of roles, and those change game to game because we don’t have nine or ten girls that can play this year we have 15.” Lakewood earned a spot in the championship with a 15-4 win over Thornapple Kellogg. The Vikings scored four runs in the second, five in the third, three in the fourth, then tacked on three more in the seventh. Curtis and Vantland had four hits each for the Vikings. Campeau and Tingley both had three. Tingley had a pair of doubles and three RBI. Campeu and Curtis both one double. Sandra Gerou was 2-for-4 at the plate for TK with an RBI. Hamilton pitched the Vikings to the win allowing six hits while striking out six. Liz Polmanteer was hit with the loss for TK, allowing 19 hits while striking out three. TK followed up the loss by topping Delton Kellogg 12-2 in five innings in the consolation game. The Trojans scored eight times int he bottom of the second with the help of five walks. Paige Lajcak also had a triple in the Trojans’ big rally. She was 2-for-3 and scored two runs in the win. Kelly Mousseau also had two hits for TK. Kami McCowan was 3-for-3 with a pair of doubles to lead Delton. Hastings topped Delton Kellogg 12-8 in the first game of the day. The Saxons scored in every inning except one as Adams led the hitting attack with two hits. Adams, Katie DeVries, Salazar and Rozell all had two RBI in the game for Hastings. Laken Meade got the win on the mound as she allowed just one hit and one earned run while striking out three Delton batters and walking four. Vikes and Orioles both score double-digit softball victories Both teams scored a five-inning victory Thursday afternoon. Lakewood’s varsity softball team won its season opener 10-0 in five innings over visiting Charlotte, but then fell in game two of the non-conference double header with the Orioles 11-1. Khila Hamilton earned the win pitching for the Vikings in the opener, she struck out four, while only walking one and allowing just two hits. Lakewood pounded out 12 hits of its own in the victory, including three doubles. Jessica Salazar had two singles and drove in three runs for the Vikings. Cori Curtis, Brooke Wieland, and Derrica Desgranges also had two hits each for the Vikings. Danica Desgranges and Wieland each drove in two runs. Lakewood led 3-0 after two innings, then put the game away with a seven-run fourth. Charlotte scored three runs in the third inning, four in the fourth and four more in the fifth to win the night-cap. Wieland, the Lakewood pitcher, gave up five hits and walked three, but didn’t get a lot of help from the defense which made five errors. Four of the Orioles’ runs were unearned. Lakewood had five hits, a pair of singles by Curtis and three other singles from Taylor Vantland, Konner Geiger and Liz Campeau. �Page 18 — Thursday, April 19, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Thornapple Manor breaks ground for 23-bed dementia unit by Bonnie Mattson Staff Writer Ground was broken April 13 at Thornapple Manor for the new 23-bed dementia and Alzheimer’s unit to be built next to the county-owned skilled nursing facility. Close to 100 people were in attendance for the event. Guests from the community, residents and their families and staff members were on hand for the ceremony. Also in attendance were Sen. Rick Jones, State Rep. Mike Callton, Barry County Department of Human Services board member Dave McIntyre, Hastings mayor Bob May and county commissioners Hoot Gibson, Bob Houtman and Dan Parker. Thornapple Manor Administrator Jim DeYoung welcomed the group and introduced the architects from Eckert Wordell who designed the project. The firm also designed the original renovation of Thornapple Manor that was completed three years ago. “The Michigan Department of Public Health determines bed needs for facilities such as Thornapple Manor. At the time of the overall renovation, the need for these skilled nursing beds was not evident.” said DeYoung. In 2010, Thornapple Manor officials Jim DeYoung addresses the crowd. became aware of the need and submitted the necessary paperwork, financial projections and design work that led to creation of the facility designed for residents with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. “The unit will provide a homelike atmosphere of bedrooms surrounding a kitchen and living room,” said DeYoung. “This building will be a quieter environment in a smaller space, with less outside distractions.” The project is expected to be completed in December. State Rep. Michael Callton, Commissioner Dan Parker and Sen. Rick Jones have a few minutes to share some conversation. Taking part in the ceremonial groundbreaking for new 23-bed unit at Thornapple Manor are (from left) Dave McIntyre, DHS board member; Mark Hires, CM Contracting Jim DeYoung, retiring administrator of Thornapple Manor; Jackie Schantz, director of Nursing of Thornapple Manor; Jennifer Wyatt, Kelly Germay, David Jarl of Eckert Wordell; and Don Haney, incoming administrator of Thornapple Manor. At right: County and state representatives at the groundbreaking include (from left) Hastings mayor Bob May, DHS board member Dave McIntyre, county commissioner Howard Gibson, Thornapple Manor director of nursing Jackie Schantz, Thornapple Manor retiring administrator Jim DeYoung, incoming administrator Don Haney, State Sen. Rick Jones, State Rep. Mike Callton, Barry County Administrator Michael Brown and county commissioner Dan Parker. Spring and summer weather not as severe in 2011 According to the National Weather Service, four deaths and 31 injuries were attributed to severe weather in Michigan in 2011. All of the deaths and injuries resulted from either lightning or thunderstorm winds. Flooding, severe thunderstorms and tornadoes were responsible for about $150 million in damages in 2011, down from the $360 million in damages in 2010 for the state. Below average severe weather activity was reported across much of upper and northern lower Michigan last year. However, severe weather increased in 2011 across southern lower Michigan, according to a press release from the Michigan Committee for Severe Weather Awareness. The character of the severe weather in southern lower Michigan was not as significant as 2010, but still took a substantial toll on the state. Flooding in 2011 was more widespread than in the 2010. A total of 38 flooding and flash flooding events were reported statewide, resulting in $10 million in damages. The most significant flood event hit Lansing and much of Ingham County July 28. Six to eight inches of rain fell over Ingham County in about 30 Flooding at Tyden Park in Hastings and elsewhere in late July gave rise to unprecedented hatchings of mosquitoes in early August 2011. (File photo) hours. This caused widespread flash flooding that closed numerous roads. Water reached as high as streetside mailboxes in Lansing where boat rescues were necessary, and five homes were destroyed. Twenty additional homes suffered significant damage. In all, the flooding around Lansing July 28 caused about $5 million in damages. Another significant flood event occurred in Mecosta County April 4. A local State of Emergency was declared for the county as a result of extensive heavy rainfall and melting snow. Numerous roads were washed out or covered with water, including M-20. Over a dozen homes were surrounded with water up to their foundations. The total damage was estimated over $1 million. Fifteen tornadoes were reported across the state in 2011, nearly the average of 16. Only four of the 15 tornadoes in 2011 caused significant damage, and six of the tornadoes caused no damage. Severe thunderstorms occurrences were sparse across the Northern Lower and the Upper Peninsula, since many locations had their second driest summer on record. Across southern lower Michigan, severe weather activity was above average, but with below average number of significant events. Despite the relatively quiet severe weather pattern across the northern portions of the state, the first severe weather event hit northwest lower Michigan. On April 10, wind gusts were measured to 79 miles per hour at Manistee Harbor, 62 mph at Manistee Blacker Airport and 85 mph in Lake City. The most intense damage was on the north side of downtown Manistee and on the south side of Lake Missaukee. Numerous trees were blown down, resulting in roof and structural damage to many homes and businesses. 77567203 The next severe weather event occurred April 26 across western lower Michigan from the same storm system that produced the super outbreak of tornadoes in the south. While the Michigan severe weather was not to the same degree as the severe weather in Alabama, Tennessee, Mississippi and Georgia, it did have an impact on the state. There were numerous reports of wind damage and hail up to the size of golf balls. The hail across the Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo areas caused over $20 million in damages. The first Michigan tornado hit a turkey farm in Allegan County and produced EF-0 damage over its three-mile track. Nine people were injured when lightning struck a soccer field in Portage at Westfield Park. The injured were a mix of adults and students. May started quietly with no significant severe weather until the end of the month. Severe weather with some large hail and minor thunderstorm wind damage hit western lower Michigan May 22 and then moved into the southeast lower part of the state May 23 The storms traveled from northern Illinois across southern lower Michigan between 2 and 6 p.m., strengthening as they reached far southern lower Michigan and produced widespread winds estimated to 100 mph. Battle Creek and St. Joseph County were the hardest hit with over $25 million in damages. In Battle Creek, approximately 600 homes and 21 businesses were damaged. The May 29 squall line also produced three EF-1 tornadoes in St. Joseph, Branch, Ingham and Shiawassee counties. May ended with another severe weather event across northern and central lower Michigan. One tornado was recorded in Bay County May 31. The tornado was on the ground for over eight miles damaging homes, garages and barns. June brought a return of periodic severe weather episodes. Severe weather was reported from Central Upper Michigan and from all corners of Lower Michigan during June 8 and into the early morning hours of June 9. Another severe weather event hit southern lower Michigan June 21, including a thunderstorm wind gust that damaged two hangers at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport. The wind gust and subsequent hanger damage resulted in four injuries. By early July, hot and humid air had invaded all of Michigan. But then a cold front moved across upper Michigan July 1 and then across lower Michigan July 2. The combination of the cold front and the hot and humid air mass triggered severe weather events in upper Michigan and southeast lower Michigan. July took a deadly turn for Michigan when next severe thunderstorms moved across southern lower Michigan July 11. Unfortunately, a man was killed inside his garage when a large tree fell over in the wind and on top of the garage. One week later, severe thunderstorms affected southeast Michigan July 18. The severe thunderstorm winds cause sporadic wind damage and some downed power lines. A man in Detroit was killed when a power line fell due to the thunderstorm winds. A family was on a tubing outing on the Au Sable River July 23 when a thunderstorm rapidly developed, and they attempted to exit the river and find shelter. They had just left the river when three of the individuals were struck by lightning. Two women were pronounced dead at the scene. A man was transported to a hospital in Saginaw in critical condition. He would survive, but require a 10-day hospital stay and considerable physical therapy. The survivor had no recollection of the incident, according to the press release. August brought a return of less violent severe weather. Severe thunderstorms moved through southern lower Michigan August 13, 20 and 24. The last severe weather event of 2011 affected southern lower Michigan Sept. 3. These severe thunderstorms forced the University of Michigan to end its opening football game early. The storms also hit River Rouge which was hosting a festival. A tent collapsed under the force of the strong winds and 10 people were injured. In Barry County, spring and summer 2011 will be remembered for the unusually cold, wet spring, the steamy hot weather in July, and swarming mosquitoes in early August unlike most people had ever encountered here. The Barry County Fair was one of the hottest in recent memory. Changes in some rules and animal shows, as well as water misters placed throughout the fairgrounds, allowed the fair to go smoothly, despite the heat. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-04-26.pdf e5f078918c1b7519dda63a0537a16a8b PDF Text Text Fehsenfeld honored for community vision Do new school board terms make sense? Saxons score double digit wins vs. TK See Story on Page 3 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 18 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 17 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, April 26, 2012 Fracking, animal shelter heat up county board meeting NEWS BRIEFS Michigan Blood hosting upcoming drives Michigan Blood, which, according to Pennock Health Services CEO Sheryl Lewis Blake is the sole provider of blood for patients at Pennock Hospital, is planning drives in the coming weeks, including: • Friday, May 4, at Pennock Hospital Conference Center, 1009 W. Green St., from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. • Sunday, May 20, at Thornapple Valley Church, 2750 S. M-43 Highway, from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Pennock Hospital hosts a blood drive the first Friday of every month from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the conference center. Any healthy person 17 or older (16 with parental permission) who weighs at least 110 pounds may be eligible to give blood every 56 days. To make an appointment or for more information, call 866-642-5663 or visit the website www.donate.miblood.org. Nominations sought for Book of Golden Deeds Each year, the Hastings Exchange Club honors an individual from the area for his or her selfless service to the community. Past recipients include Suzy Baum, Bob May, Jim Atkinson, Jim Spindler, Elaine Gilbert and Loretta Schoessel. Nomination forms have been distributed to all local service clubs and organizations. However, nominees do not need to be a member of service organizations to be nominated, and anyone in the community may nominate an individual based on his or her service and volunteerism. Nomination forms are available at Hastings Public Library and the front desk of J-Ad Graphics. Forms should be filled out and returned to Exchange Club President Nancy Bradley, 550 Lakeside Dr., Hastings 49058 by Friday, May 4. For more information, call Bradley, 269-948-2763 or Margie Haas, 269-9452941 or 269-838-3392. DKHS alumni banquet plans underway The Delton Kellogg High School alumni banquet will be Saturday evening, May 19, in the fellowship hall of the Faith United Methodist Church in Delton, 503 S. Grove St. (M-43), in Delton at 6 p.m. Honored classes at this year’s event will be alumni from 2012, 1987 and 1962. The catered meal is $12.50 per person. Tickets need to be purchased by Saturday, May 12. Send reservations to Delores Kroes, 11575 Floria Road, Delton 49046 and indicate year of graduation. For more information, visit http://dkhs-alumni.org or call Nancy Kroes, 269-623-2917, or Mary Sager, 269-623-2610. by Doug VanderLaan Editor The fault lines of a typical Barry County Commission meeting shifted a bit Tuesday under the pressure of issues related to hydraulic fracturing, a dustup surrounding personnel management at the county animal shelter, and dissent over a county response to two state initiatives. “What you hear about regulations will be from the major companies who want their agendas passed,” Hastings resident Jasmine Curtis-Moore told commissioners about the controversial practice of hydraulic fracturing, commonly referred to as fracking. Curtis-Moore was one of three speakers Wallace to retire from Hastings Mutual Insurance Company Hastings Mutual Insurance Company Tuesday announced the retirement of Chief Executive Officer and President Bill Wallace. Wallace, originally from Boone, Iowa, and a graduate of the University of Iowa’s College of Business Administration, served as CEO of Hastings Mutual for 14 years. He also served as chairman of the board of directors. Wallace will retire after a 37 year career in the insurance industry. “It has been my honor to serve the policyholders of Hastings Mutual over the past 14 years,” said Wallace. “I am privileged to have worked with an outstanding board of directors, a talented employee force and a group of dedicated independent agents. Together, we have met many challenges and have overcome many obstacles while having some fun along the way.” During Wallace’s time as CEO, Hastings Mutual’s surplus grew 180 percent, from $116.8 million to $327.6 million with an annual average growth of 14 percent. The company’s total assets have grown more than 100 percent from $339.3 million to $679.2 million and direct written premium has grown 90 percent from $179.7 million to $342 million. In 2010, Wallace led Hastings Mutual into Iowa, the sixth state in the company’s Midwest territory. Wallace was also responsible for establishing the Hastings Mutual Insurance Company Charitable Foundation, a nonprofit organization with a mission to provide basic, unmet needs in the communities the company serves by partnering with independent agencies through matching grants. Wallace will be succeeded by Joseph J. Babiak Jr., who is serving as the chief operations officer until Wallace’s official retirement July 27. During the past three years, mission and audience members. “My name is Dan Parker, I am a Barry County resident,” announced Parker, “and I just want to say that, if you come to these meetings, you should come with documented proof — so that it means something to the people around you, and everyone can be sure that they’re not stories you’ve heard and are not just rumors.” Parker spent several minutes following the meeting with all three of the individuals who had addressed the issue. “A lot of people are very concerned about this issue,” summarized Geiger in his closing commissioner remarks, “and I have spent a lot of time searching for what counties can do. The answer is ‘Not much.’ “I have not found a single city or municipal government which has taken any action, and that’s because the jurisdiction rests solely at the state level.” Geiger, too, spent time with the public commenters following the meeting and responded to Frederick Moore’s contention that one county near Durham, N.C. had taken action by declaring a moratorium on fracking. Geiger reminded Moore that North Carolina rules differ from Michigan and that the Department of Environmental Quality has sole jurisdiction over the issue in this state. Commissioner Robert Houtman used part of his closing remarks to remind everyone of a May 1 meeting at the Pierce Cedar Creek Institute in which the entire oil and gas exploration subject will be explored by guest speakers and experts. Staffing at the Animal Control office will be another debate to come, especially after Sheriff Dar Leaf expressed surprise with a verbally formulated and hurriedly passed resolution that Leaf, who directs the animal shel- See MEETING, page 13 Bill Wallace Babiak has served as the senior vice president of insurance operations in preparation for this planned succession. He joined Hastings Mutual as chief financial officer in 2001 and has more than 30 years of industry experience. “Hastings Mutual is stronger than ever and perfectly positioned for the future,” said Wallace. “I am confident that under Joe’s strong leadership, we will continue to be the consistent, secure company that our agents and policyholders have come to rely upon for more than 125 years.” Barry County Bar Association celebrating Law Day May 2 Jacobs to receive Liberty Bell Award The Barry County Bar Association will begin its annual Law Day activities with its presentation of the Liberty Bell Award Wednesday, May 2 at noon in the historic Barry County Circuit Courtroom. The award is presented each year by the Barry County Bar Association to an individual in the community who has stimulated a sense of civic responsibility, and contributed to good government in the community. The recipient this year is Fred Jacobs. “Fred has, over the years, contributed a significant amount of his time and energy to improve our community,” said Robert Byington, president of the Barry County Bar Association. “He has served on a number of boards and committees to advance our community and bring issues and projects to the attention of the public.” The keynote speaker will be Attorney General Bill Schuette. The public is welcome to attend. The Law Day celebration will conclude Friday, May 4, when elementary students will present a mock trial in all the courtrooms throughout the day. “The Law Day theme, ‘No Courts, No Justice, No Freedom,’ provides an outstanding opportunity for the nation to reflect on the role our courts and judiciary have played throughout our country’s history,” said Byington. “It also provides an opportunity to educate citizens of all ages about the workings of our calling for the board to address the practice and the upcoming May 8 auction by the State of Michigan of more than 20,858 acres in Barry County for oil and gas exploration. That auction will also include leases of state land, including property in or near the Barry State Game Area. More than 134 private landowners in Barry County have already sold leasing rights to “independent landmen” who have been plying the county for months. “Someday down the road you will be affected,” continued Curtis-Moore of the alleged dangers of fracking which, some believe, carry high risk of polluting surface waters and aquifers due to highly toxic waste water stored deep in the ground once the drilling process has been completed. Fracking has also been reported to be the cause of earthquakes near Cleveland. “Once you smell these chemicals, you are already poisoned. Once this environment is destroyed, we’ll be like Humpty Dumpty — we’re not going to put this back together again. Once the cancer spreads, it’s over.” Then, in a comment directed to Commissioner Dan Parker who, in concluding commissioner remarks had just reminded everyone to attend this weekend’s woodpecker festival in Middleville, Curtis-Moore made a direct reference to future conditions: “If you want to see woodpeckers, look on the ground, because that’s where they’ll be laying.” Parker, in an attempted response, was overruled by Commission Chair Craig Stolsonburg, who reminded Parker that public comments are reserved only for the public. Stolsonburg then asked any remaining citizens wishing to make public comments to come forward. Parker arose from his commission chair, approached the lectern, and, after a humorous reminder from Commission Vice Chair Ben Geiger to state his name, addressed the com- Fred Jacobs court system and how our courts guard our rights.” Each May, the Barry County Bar Association observes Law Day to commemorate the rule of law, the judiciary and its place in American society. City council puts brakes on fees for wheelchair ramps by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Once again, the Hastings City Council has tabled a proposed schedule of fees for handicapped-accessible ramps within the city limits that would coincide with a recently adopted ordinance regulating them. If approved, the ordinance would require an initial $50 inspection fee for all new ramps, plus a $30 renewal fee. However, if a building permit is issued to the construction of a new ramp, the initial and first annual fee would be waived. Hastings City Manager Jeff Mansfield said property owners who need to install wheelchair ramps have had problems in the past meeting setback requirements, which results in the need for zoning variances. He said the city planner has suggested that handicapaccess ramps should be treated as a general law, rather than a zoning ordinance, which would mean both new and existing ramps would have to comply with new regulations. During the city council’s regular meeting Monday evening, Mansfield said that since the previous council meeting he had been contacted by Joel Cooper, president and CEO of Disability Network of Southwest Michigan, who has offered to help the city research what other communities across the state have done to eliminate the need for zoning variances for wheelchair ramps. Mansfield said he would report the Cooper’s findings during an upcoming council meeting. In other business, the council approved the following: • A request from Todd Arens to pay the sewer system improvement fee that he would have been charged had he paid the fee at the time he connected a two-unit dwelling to the city’s sewer system in 1998. He had been notified by city officials that he needed to pay the fee at today’s rate, as required of all utility customers who do not pay fees at the time they are due. The council approved assessing Arens the 1998 fee of $1,600, rather than today’s $2,315, a difference of $715. The motion was approved by a 5-4 vote with Mayor Bob May casting a tie-breaking vote. Trustees Don Bowers, Dave Jasperse, Brenda McNabbStange and Barry Wood voted against the motion to grant Arens’ request, while trustees Waylon Black, Jeri DePue, Bill Redman and Dave Tossava voted in its favor. •A request from CASA for Kids board vice president Joe Baker to hold a 5K fundraiser Saturday, Oct. 27, starting at 9 a.m. at the Barry County Courts and Law Building and incorporating sections of the Riverwalk, downtown and the neighborhood between State and Lincoln streets. • A request from David Parker, chair of the Barry Community Free Clinic, to hold a Breaking Barriers 5K run from 7 to 11 a.m. Saturday, June 2. The event would start at Hastings Manufacturing, proceed down the Riverwalk to the Thornapple River and back. • A request from Steve Jordan, president of Helping Hands Ministry of Barry County, to host a bikeathon Friday, June 29, through Wednesday, July 4, that would include parts of Hastings as well as other areas of Barry County. • A request from Wendy’s restaurant to hold a car show, which would involve closing one block of Market Street from Apple to State Street from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, June 15. • Authorization for Mayor Bob May and City Clerk Tom Emery to sign an amendment to the agreement with Barry County and Hastings Charter Township for sewer service for the new unit under construction at Thornapple Manor. The new facility is expected to use an additional 5,000 gallons of sewer service per day. • A resolution, prepared by the Michigan Municipal League, asking the legislature not to repeal Michigan’s personal property tax without a replacing it with another source of revenue for municipalities. • A motion to table approval of the Hastings City/Barry County Airport budget for the 2012-13 fiscal year until its next meeting to allow the airport board to present information indicating whether the airport is on track to become self-supporting by 2015 as projected. �Page 2 — Thursday, April 26, 2012 — The Hastings Banner New group makes big impact on Hastings area roads During a community conversation on education hosted by The Center for Michigan at Maple Valley Schools April 10, a facilitator led the group through a presentation on Michigan schools. Results from the conversations will be compiled and presented to legislators. Community conversations on education begin by Shari Carney Staff Writer During the first of four local community conversations on education to be held throughout Barry County in coming weeks, approximately 30 participants at Maple Valley High School on April 10 shared concerns about standardized testing, lack of funding, Schools of Choice, class size and more. Residents all across the state are being asked by The Center for Michigan, a nonprofit agency, to participate in discussions on the future of education in Michigan. The next local community form will be at the Delton District Library tonight, Thursday, April 26, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Additional conversations will be held at the Middle Villa Inn, in Middleville on Wednesday, May 2, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. and in Hastings at the Barry County Enrichment Center on Thursday, May 10, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Facilitator Amber Toth provided an introduction of The Center for Michigan and guidelines for last week’s conversation at Maple Valley then moved through an outline of topics and questions for consideration. Each participant received a Community Conversation Education Issue Guide and a remote response card for inputting answers anonymously. The response card was no larger than a credit card and resembled a calculator. Throughout the conversation, participants had the chance to cast votes on a variety of topics. Responses ranged from 1 to 5, with 1 signifying “irrelevant” to 5 being “crucial.” Results were tabulated and then discussed. The group collectively gave the state of Michigan’s schools a “C” and Maple Valley a “B.” Various topics were then brought up for discussion. “You teach to the test, and the teacher is thinking ‘I’ve got to make the number.’ You do that, and the kids suffer,” was how resident Herb Kirchhoff responded to standardized testing. “Anything but the standardized model,” added Terry Swartz. “How do we make the kids accountable?” asked Doug Kelsey of Vermontville who, in February, brought the idea of hosting the conversation before the Maple Valley Board of Education. “How do we make kids take their education seriously — their own education?” “Making kids accountable happens when every person cares,” responded Roger Trowbridge, who runs an all-volunteer, afterschool tutoring program for Maple Valley. “Choose a kid and show one-on-one support. Not all kids understand; they don’t believe there’s anything out there. It’s what they hear at home. [But] this is still the land of opportu- nity. Get them excited, and they will learn.” Diane Casteel suggested an open attitude toward a mentoring program in the school through which citizens could provide help. An audience member said he believed there needs to be a shift in what kids want to learn. He said the emphasis on acting and music is a reflection of society and shared a statistic of 50,000 engineers graduating in the United States compared to 1 million in India. In defense of the arts, Mary Slag from the technology department of Maple Valley Schools contended that interest in art and music needs to be encouraged. “My daughter-in-law designs web pages, creates apps for iPhones and creates album covers and posters -- she’s an artist,” said Slag. “My nephew is also an artist. He has worked in musicals and now in film, creating commercials.” “Obviously the arts are important,” added Toth, the facilitator. “We’re missing the boat here,” suggested Maple Valley School Board President April Heinze. “What is needed is a passion to teach.” Becky Anderson, a paraprofessional at Maple Valley, brought up early childhood development, calling for standards that children entering kindergarten should meet. In Nebraska, where she used to live, if children did not meet the standards, they could not enter kindergarten. “They stayed home until they were ready to begin,” Anderson pointed out. Trowbridge invited Anderson to help him start an early childhood pre-school program. The conversation then shifted to Schools of Choice and how it is perceived to have hurt poorer communities. “School of choice has cost us,” said Bonnie Laverty, a volunteer tutor at Maple Valley. “We lost 50 students to Hastings. It has been horrible for us.” Reduction of class sizes drew support. “My class sizes used to be 15 to 18,” said building trades teacher Jeff Seavolt. “Now there are 24 to 26 in five to seven different levels. The kids are not getting what they need. I end up teaching to the middle group.” “It’s that way in all our classes,” said Heinze. “We don’t want it that way. If we could reduce class sizes, it would be a nobrainer.” “We are a working poor community,” said Jenna Burns, the parent of two special-needs children and the designated parent liaison for Maple Valley to Eaton Intermediate School District. An employee from EISD spoke. “I’ve yet to find a parent who doesn’t love their child,” said the EISD employee. “ [The problem is] they don’t know what to do. If they didn’t have a good experience in school themselves they don’t share a love of learning.” Maple Valley is initiating a pilot program in the lower elementary, combining kindergarten and first grade classes with co-teachers. “I really like this Maple Valley Academy,” said Burns of the pilot program. “I think its brilliant. Finland does this, and they are No. 1 in education.” The topic shifted to how schools are funded. “The State of Michigan keeps giving more money to colleges,” said Laverty. “The State cannot decrease money for kindergarten through 12th anymore and expect kids to go there [college].” “You’ve got to have money to work with,” responded Kirchhoff. Kelsey, the Vermontville man who had suggested the conversation, contended that school districts are succeeding against all odds, adding, “We need to get back to core community involvement.” Seavolt, the building and trades instructor, said money is available. “You just have to ask for it,” he said, adding that he has secured a number of grants and donations for his building trades courses. Maple Valley Curriculum Director Julie Swartz said technology engages learners. “We have secured 67 iPads for Fuller Street School, and 10 more are coming,” Swartz announced. Pam Tava from Navigate, a college access network located in Hastings, introduced herself. “As college advisors, we have met with every single senior,” said Tava. “We are another resource looking for your input, trying to find that community assistance.” Toth thanked the community for offering to host the conversation and commended participants on their input and passion for the topic. She assured the group that their votes and comments would all be considered in the final tally of responses to place before Michigan legislators. Toth reminded participants that The Center for Michigan is non-partisan and does not endorse any candidate. Research gathered is meant to inform state legislators of what is on the minds of Michigan residents specifically in regards to education. The center has a website, www.thecenterformichigan.net for more information on the community conversations. Interested participants in the upcoming conversations in Delton, Middleville, and Hastings are urged to preregister at least five days prior to each forum through the Barry County YMCA website, www.ymcaofbarrycounty.org. The inaugural event of the new Pride in Clean Country Roads area environmental group Saturday turned out to be not only successful — it also provided confirmation of its value to the community. Starting out on a cold and chilly morning as an Earth Day Eve volunteer road clean-up activity, nearly 30 volunteers spent about three hours cleaning up and beautifying three miles of Becker, Woodlawn and Bayne roads in northeast Hastings. Their haul was significant: 3,000 pounds of trash filling 50 trash bags, 300 pounds of recyclable plastic, glass metal and paper, and 38 tires that were delivered to Brian’s Tire and Service of Hastings for recycling. Items transported to a local landfill included a mattress and box springs, carpeting, irrigation pipe, a car seat, a shattered aquarium, auto parts and thousands of fast food restaurant wrappers, paper, plastic and Styrofoam cups, bags and containers. “Every bit of this trash was either thrown from a car window, or purposely dumped out here,” said Craig Brainard, longtime Sierra club volunteer and founder of the new PICCR organization. “We wanted to shine a light on this problem of careless littering and illicit dumpings, as well as clean up this blight on our landscape.” The PICCR idea and cleanup events came to Brainard several months ago while taking a walk on Becker Road. Because they are gravel roads near the Hastings city limits, Becker and Woodlawn Roads are especially impacted, points out Brainard. One small section of Woodlawn, which produced the majority of the trash, has been an illicit dump site for many years. Brainard, who hopes the Saturday event will be the first of many such road cleanup days, found some passionate allies to organize this inaugural event. Sue Browne, regional program manager for the BlueGreen Alliance, a confederation of labor unions and environmental groups, lives nearby and signed on with Terry Newton, president of Local 5965, who was able to recruit volunteers from the union group. The Sierra Club-West Michigan Group also helped sponsor the event that started with light refreshments and finished with a pizza lunch. For more information on PICCR, call Brainard at 269-945-8871 or email him a boomerbob2591@gmail.com. Discarded tires are the heaviest items removed from Hastings roads — and perhaps the most surprising, given that 38 were found in just three road miles Becker, Woodlawn and Bayne roads are the focus of Saturday’s road cleanup project. Because they are remote and, in two cases, the first dirt roads to leave the city, they’ve attracted litter. Second Thornapple Woodpecker Festival set for April 27-28 by Julie Makarewicz Staff Writer The Thornapple Woodpecker Festival scheduled for April 27 and 28 in Middleville has something for everyone, from hiking the Paul Henry Thornapple Trail to bird watching, kayaking, nature exhibits, guest speakers, and even a festive ball. Organizers hope the festival’s second year proves to be even more successful and are looking for more than 100 visitors to attend the two-day event. Taking center stage as the featured guest is the rare red-headed woodpecker that has made a nesting habitat along the trail and the Thornapple River. Bird watching tours will lead guests near the nesting areas for viewing of the red-headed woodpecker. The river is also home to six other eastern United States woodpecker varieties as well as many other birds and water fowl. Golf carts are available for people who can’t walk the trail and guided tours take place throughout both days of the festival giving everyone different chances to catch glimpses of the birds. The cost to participate in festival events, excluding the Woodpecker Ball, is $10 with proceeds helping festival sponsor the Thornapple Trail Association, continue efforts to develop and extend trails. The Woodpecker Ball, which takes place Friday, April 27, at the Middle Villa Inn, will offer a buffet dinner for $17 and dancing to the Forrest Evans Quartet for $10 per single admission or $15 per couple. Registration can be done online at www.woodpeckerfest.webs.com or at the festival itself. Event organizers want people to get out and enjoy nature and the beautiful trail in Middleville. Jean Lamoreaux, secretary for the Thornapple Trail Association and Woodpecker Festival committee member, said it’s a great time to get outside, to enjoy the trail, and to take in nature. “It’s just a fun festival,” said Lamoreaux. “We’re trying to create awareness about the trail and about birds in the area. There are a lot of fun things for people to do and just enjoy downtown Middleville and the trail.” In addition to the tours, there will be presentations by featured speakers at the village hall. Speakers scheduled include Jonathan Lutz, executive director of the Michigan Audubon Club, John Baumgartner, board member of the Michigan Audubon Club and an expert on pileated woodpeckers in Michigan, and Kristen Hintz, Ottawa County parks and recreation naturalist. There is also a nature art contest at the Masonic Hall across the street from the village hall. There will be one category for photography with sections for professionals and another for amateurs. An additional art contest will feature paintings, drawings, collages and sculptures. There will be three prizes in each of the categories with winners determined by popular ballot. Friday activities begin at 8:30 a.m. with registration and the opening of exhibits at the village hall, 100 E. Main St. Guided bird walks start at 8:30 a.m. with guided golf cart trips commencing at 9 a.m. Lutz will speak at 11 a.m. followed by more guided walks and trips scheduled for the afternoon. The Woodpecker Ball starting at 6 p.m. and guests are encouraged to wear red, black and white. Saturday activities continue at 8:30 a.m. with bird walks and trips. Hintz speaks at 1 a.m. and Baumgartner at 1 p.m. Closing ceremonies take place at 4 p.m. A full calendar of the events and times can be found at www.woodpeckerfest.webs.com or by calling Lamoreaux, 616-293-8666. The Hayes family makes Saturday’s road cleanup an all-family affair. Jenny (second from left) and Steve helped their children (from left) Emily, Charlie and Hannah learn an environmental lesson. Most road cleanup items are put into garbage bags. Others, like discarded carpet and mattresses, have to be hauled to a local landfill separately. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, April 26, 2012 — Page 3 John Fehsenfeld honored for community vision by David DeDecker Staff Writer Friends and colleagues gathered in a classroom April 20 to celebrate John Fehsenfeld’s contribution to education in Barry County. Fehsenfeld, a past Barry Intermediate School District superintendent and the namesake of Kellogg Community College’s Hastings campus, has been instrumental in the education of generations. The Hastings campus was built in the mid1990s, paid for with bonds issued by Barry County, which have since been completely paid off. Friday, Fehsenfeld Center Director Tim Sleevi said, “A lot of you were here 15 or 16 years ago when this facility was built. We wanted an opportunity to say ‘thank you’ and honor a person who was quite instrumental in the process.” Fehsenfeld belonged to the Barry County Futuring Committee which started more than 30 years ago. He said the people who served on the committee came from all different walks of life, but shared the same focus on improving the quality of life in Hastings and Barry County. “This community has been blessed with very talented people,” said Fehsenfeld, a native of the Grand Rapids area. The Futuring Committee was involved in the expansion of the Barry Community Foundation, United Way, YMCA, Hastings Public Library, Thornapple Arts Council, Green Gables Haven, Commission on Aging, the courts and law building, numerous service clubs and the KCC Fehsenfeld Center. “Everyone in Futuring had a passion for Barry County,” said publisher Fred Jacobs. “We did more in 10 years, and the results are still being felt today.” “If we saw farther,” said Fehsenfeld, “it was because we stood on the backs of giants who created our community. “A large number of people contributed to the creation of this facility — Paul Ohm and Ed Herring [past presidents of KCC], Tim Sleevi, and Mark O’Connell. But, it happened because of people like Don Drummond, Sue and Sandi Drummond, Fred Jacobs, Jan Hartough, Emmett Harrington, Ken and Alice Jones, Tom Mohler and Bob Nida. We also needed the cooperation of Bob Edwards in Rutland Township, Jim Bailey of the county commission and County Administrator Michael Brown. “Today, under the leadership of KCC President Dennis Bona, KCC Foundation Board Chair Deb Hatfield and BISD Superintendent Jeff Jennette, our college continues to grow.” Hatfield, who has been with the KCC Foundation board for 13 years, said she is “a firm believer that what we have in Barry County, with KCC, is an amazing opportunity. This past year, the foundation had over 200 students receiving over $380,000 in scholarships. Those are students who are mostly non- John Fehsenfeld (bottom center) speaks with Bob Nida and Jan Hartough at the celebration of his involvement in bringing a KCC campus to Hastings. KCC had tried a millage in Barry County and had lost, so we went to the county with a proposal for bonds. We would run the Hastings campus as a business, and make the business pay for the facility. At first, the county commissioners were concerned, but when we reminded them who was behind the proposal — KCC — there was no risk. We built the campus and almost immediately it was a success and filled with students.” Fred Jacobs traditional students. They are people who would not necessarily be going to college today if they weren’t getting some type of assistance. That’s because of people who donate to the KCC Foundation. Many of you in this room have participated in funding the foundation, and we appreciate it. We want you to know how much impact your dollars have here in the community. For many reasons, having this campus (in Hastings) is important, and we are hoping to grow the campus right here.” Jacobs gave a brief history on the development of the county’s only college. The idea, he said, started with the Futuring Committee, through funding by the Thornapple Foundation, which is now the Barry Community Foundation. “We started talking about problems of edu- Dr. Wilgus receives Pennock award cation far before the KCC campus was built. John was a major player when he came here. One of his first conversations with Paul Ohm is that we needed a KCC campus in Hastings. We had a relationship with KCC and Hastings High School that goes back to the 1970s, where HHS would allow KCC to use classrooms for training and save those young people the drive to Battle Creek. “We did an exhaustive study of KCC and the needs of Barry County. Paul looked at that and saw the potential for success, and came on board. “Then we needed land, and the Biddle family can forward because they wanted to see their land turned into a learning facility and not broken up into a housing development. “Then we needed money. KCC had tried a millage in Barry County and had lost, so we went to the county with a proposal for bonds. We would run the Hastings campus as a business, and make the business pay for the facil- Long-time educator and community leader John Fehsenfeld speaks to people gathered at the Kellogg Community College Fehsenfeld Center about the vision and collaboration it took to bring the campus to Hastings. ity. At first, the county commissioners were concerned, but when we reminded them who was behind the proposal — KCC — there was no risk. We built the campus and almost immediately it was a success and filled with students.” Fehsenfeld’s name became a part of the Hastings campus’ identity in 1997, less than a year after it opened. Fehsenfeld spent more than 32 years in education, 25 of those as a superintendent, including 11 years as head of the BISD in Hastings. Fehsenfeld also served as a communication specialist with the U.S. Air Force. He, along with the late Sue Drummond, cofounded the Thornapple Arts Council. He also has been a board member of the Barry County United Way, is a past president of the Hastings Kiwanis Club and has served numerous other boards, committees and efforts. Fehsenfeld concluded Friday’s celebration “A lot of you were here 15 or 16 years ago when this facility was built. We wanted an opportunity to say ‘thank you’ and honor a person who was quite instrumental in the process.” Tim Sleevi, Fehsenfeld Center Director by telling those attending that when the student is ready, the teacher will arrive, but he said so will the buildings. He noted the success of the Hastings campus and spoke of his belief the campus will grow to fill all of the 100 acres. Finance for Young Adults Wednesday, May 2, 2012 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. Hastings City Bank, 150 West Court St. Join us for a fun and informational event to discuss: • Student Checking Accounts • Getting Smart About Credit • College Credit Cards • Your questions and concerns We’ll be here to help you open your first checking account, learn how to begin establishing great credit and credit mistakes to avoid. This meeting is free and open to the community. Pizza and pop will be served. A drawing for an Apple IPad will take place.* Please RSVP to 269-948-5579 or ngoodin@hcb.us Dr. Carrie Wilgus (center) is awarded the Pennock Professional Partner Award by Pennock Health Services Director of Human Resources Anita Henderson (left) and Pennock CEO Sheryl Lewis Blake. Carrie Wilgus, M.D., was awarded the Pennock Professional Partner Award April 19, and is reportedly the first physician to receive the award. The award is given quarterly in recognition of continuous excellence through the demonstration of Pennock core values, mission and customer service principles. Recipients are nominated by their colleagues. “She is an extraordinary example of a colleague who provides excellent customer service and who goes above and beyond requirements to meet and exceed customer expectations,” said Pennock Director of Human Resources Anita Henderson. “Her devotion to both her patients and the hospital exemplifies what it means to be Pennock Professional Partner.” During the ceremony, Sheryl Lewis Blake, Pennock Chief Executive Officer, read quotes from colleagues attesting to Wilgus’ exceptional skills as a physician and her level of commitment and care for her pediatric patients. “In addition to her professional skills, she is always respectful of colleagues, patients and fellow medical staff, exuding a friendly, caring and positive attitude,” said Blake. Beyond her work at the hospital, Wilgus volunteers for local safety and safe sleep initiatives, is active with Barry County United Way and Green Gables Haven and serves on the child death review board. She is also a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics. *Need not be present to win. No purchase is required to enter this drawing. Entry forms are available at all Hastings City Bank branches. 1-888-422-2280 77567368 �Page 4 — Thursday, April 26, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Do six-year school board terms make sense? Morels arrive early Glen Guernsey of Freeport shared this photo of the sun backlighting some Do you morels. Guernsey said he found what amounted to a a sink full of morel mushrooms over the weekend in Barry County. Normally, the sought-after edible fungus first appears in early May. However, with this year’s jump-start on spring, some residents reported finding morels as early as April 14. We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. We’ll select a photograph for publication each week and post the others to our website for all to enjoy. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. know? Hat-worthy celebration Do you recognize any of the women in this photo? Do you know where the photo was taken, or why all of the women are wearing hats? We’d love to find out more about this photograph, and hope our readers have something to share. The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event to reunite the photos with their original clippings or identify photos that may never have been used. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@j- Have you adgraphics.com; or call 269-945-9554. Last week’s photo of an elderly couple looking at books and sitting in matching rocking chairs drew no response. In the J.C. Penney photo published in the April 12 Banner, Vesta Shedd, one of the women pictured, had written on the back of a similar photograph that the reason for the photo from 1947 or 1948 was “pushing apron-making.” One of the women (fourth from left, front row) who was identified last week possibly as having the last name Bell , has been positively identified as Myra Henry. Others in the photo remain unknown. met? Kellen Deau is a 26-year-old art educator with Hastings High School and the new program director for the Thornapple Arts Council. Deau is married and lives in Kalamazoo. When her teaching position was reduced to part-time she applied for and was hired to the position at the arts council. Deau was instrumental in helping to run the recent jazz festival in Hastings. Favorite movie: “Gone with the Wind.” Favorite song: That’s a hard one. I like “Queen Bee” by Taj Mahal. Favorite book: Outlander series by Diana Gabalden. It’s a really good fictional story. I guess that’s a theme. Gone with the Wind is very long and when it’s a really good story I just don’t want it to end. These books are about 700 pages, and there are seven books. Person you would most like to meet: I would have to say my uncle. I did meet him, but he passed away when I was 8. I don’t remember him very well. I have been told that I am a lot like him. He was a very artistic person and a musician. He played guitar and looked a lot like Elvis Presley. He also did impersonations of Elvis. What “super power” would you want: To be able to teleport to places. Worst summer job: When I was in high school I worked in a restaurant. I worked there a couple of summers. The manager wasn’t very nice to the student staff. Theme song: James Taylor’s “Smiling Face,” because I have a hard time not smiling. Best advice: The Golden Rule. Treat people the way you want to be treated. If you could time travel to what era During the April 16 Hastings Board of Education meeting, board members unanimously voted to extend terms from four to six years, starting with the November election. Since 2004, districts have had the option of holding school board elections in May or November of odd-numbered years. A new law puts school board and intermediate school district elections at the same time as presidential and gubernatorial elections, or during even-numbered years. The move was meant to save local school districts the cost of holding elections, plus legislators felt it would ensure voters that schools would be required to hold elections when the turnout is the highest. The new law also gives local districts the option of staying with four- or changing to six-year terms. Throughout the state, districts are discussing a change in terms. One of the strongest reasons for staying with fouryear terms is the difficulty of getting quality candidates to commit to a six-year post. Board members in some districts say those longer terms might give trustees a better understanding of the job. With all issues facing local districts, the reality of attracting the best candidates is not determined by length of service, but rather the growing demands required of school board members. According to a report released by GreatSchools, “An effective school board plays an important watchdog role in keeping your local school on track and setting policies that affect your child and your school. The board sets the vision and goals for the district and holds them accountable for results.” The report went on to say that the school board hires and evaluates the superintendent. It adopts and oversees the annual budget; along with managing the collective-bargaining process for employees while setting policies that give the district direction to best achieve its goals. This is no time for Hastings to consider extending terms. In fact, voters only have to look back to recent decisions with the former superintendent, along with a teacher buy-out book deal to determine if the district would be better served by extending terms. Due to public sentiment, districts in the state already have reversed their decisions to go to six-terms, citing concern with attracting good candidates for board positions in the future, saying it’s too big of a commitment. Recently two of longest-serving board members, Gene Haas and Pat Endsley, both of whom served the district for over 25 years have decided not to run. Their long-time service to the district implies that the length of term isn’t an issue. They apparently decided to stay on because they felt they had something to offer as board members. Yet, looking over the actions of the board in recent years, one should question whether the voters of the Hastings district are better served with longer terms. In fact, extending terms to six years limits voters’ chances to change direction of a board, short of starting a recall. What do you Looking back into Hastings School District board history, the term of office didn’t play a role in attracting good candidates; more citizens were willing to run for the position because they felt they had something to contribute. In recent years, the problem has rested with the lack of professionalism of the board members and their inability to use sound judgment in setting policies that ultimately impact public education in our community. According to GreatSchools, a strong board should set the vision and goals and then measure leadership against those goals. With public input, a great school board keeps the public informed of the district’s progress and challenges. Board members collaborate well with others and are respectful of other members and the superintendent. They pay attention to finances and adopt a fiscally sound budget for the district and always focus on what is best for all students. Plus, a strong board focuses on student achievement and works to implement policies that ensure success for all students. It’s not in the best interest of the Hastings Board of Education to lengthen the terms. The board should concentrate on attracting candidates willing to serve on a board that will work to promote sound polices for an effective public school system. Given all the challenges facing school boards today, we need to find board members with new ideas and the determination to renew the high expectations that were once the norm at Hastings schools. Arts education to be impacted at Hastings schools At the April 16 school board meeting, the district announced retirements for 13 teachers, including band and choir directors. Band director Joan BosserdSchroeder and choir director Patti LaJoye announced their plans to step down at the end of the school year. Elementary art teacher Kim Evans and middle school art teacher Deborah Mepham are also taking the early retirement offer, altering the arts programs at Hastings schools. I don’t think we have to make the case that arts education has on academics. According to Arts Education Partnership, “schoolchildren exposed to drama, music and dance may do a better job at mastering reading, writing and math than those who focus solely on academics.” Replacing these professionals won’t be easy, but its imperative if we hope to maintain a quality educational system. Finding highly qualified successors should top the list of accomplishments for the superintendent and staff. Fred Jacobs, vice president J-Ad Graphics think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. Feel free to leave an opinion or comment. Last week’s question: Legislation has been introduced to repeal Michigan’s personal property tax on businesses which would dramatically reduce municipal and public school budgets. Are you in favor of this repeal? 41% 59% Kellen Deau would you travel: I think it would be cool to go back to the 1940s. I don’t think about it historically, (like World War II, I think about it in terms of architecture and design, and the fashion. Favorite piece of artwork: I was an art history major in college, so everyone asks me what my favorite (art) period is, and I have a really hard time answering that. I am drawn to artwork with people in it, so it could be a photograph, a painting or a sculp- ture. If you were president and could change one thing in this country: It is difficult, but right now education is really struggling. I don’t know if it is something one person can change, but I really think the arts should be valued in education. With all the budget cuts, it is something that is pushed to the side. If you could give someone anything in the world: Faith. Yes No For this week: Gov. Rick Snyder recently rescinded the law requiring motorcyclists to wear helmets. Good idea? q q YES NO HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, April 26 — So Many Books Book Club discusses A Loving Scoundrel by Johanna Lindsey, 1 to 2 p.m.; Movie Memories celebrates Hollywood Hunks with Burt Lancaster and Kirk Douglas in “Gunfight at OK Corral,” 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, April 27 — preschool story time enjoys the stories of Molly Bang, 10:30 to 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 1 — toddler story time enjoys the stories about gardens, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30; open chess club, 6 to 8; genealogy club, 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 2 — 1st to 3rd Club ends the year with a party 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.; library book club discusses Gary Schmidt’s Okay for Now, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Call the Hastings Public Library for more information, 269-945-4263. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, April 26, 2012 — Page 5 Protecting the Great Lakes is an ongoing task Feinstein Challenge increases support to food bank network To the editor: If you are looking for an effective, efficient way to support hunger-relief efforts in Barry County, there’s still time to participate in this year’s Feinstein Challenge which runs through the end of this month. Contributions made to the Food Bank of South Central Michigan through April 30 will receive a partial, proportional match due to the Feinstein Foundation’s generosity. Donations made to the food bank on behalf of its member agencies will receive a 10 percent match. For the 15th year, the Feinstein Foundation is offering $1 million toward this purpose, spread across the United States. The Feinstein Challenge offers an amazing way to maximize your charitable giving dollar during a time of shrinking resources. And it has turned out to be a great catalyst for the food bank and the many Barry County non-profit organizations that rely on it for a steady supply of food. Last year, the Food Bank of South Central Michigan distributed 849,000 pounds of food to Barry County residents in need via its hunger-relief network in the county. Thirty-four percent of the individuals receiving food from the food bank are children, while 25 percent are older adults and seniors. The Food Bank of South Central Michigan is a member of Feeding America, the nation’s food bank network, the Food Bank Council of Michigan and the United Way. Through these partnerships the Food Bank brings in national, state and regional food resources into the county. To make a secure contribution online, you can go to the food bank’s website site, www.foodbankofscm.org, or send a check (made out to the food bank) to Food Bank of SCM, PO Box 408, Battle Creek, MI 49016. Jim Feldpausch, Board member, Food Bank of South Central Michigan Negligence is negligence cutor, his professionalism, how he manages his office and his ability to try cases. I think it is a time for a change. I think it is time for the voters of Barry County to back Julie Nakfoor-Pratt and put professionalism and truthfulness back in the prosecutor’s office. Brian Cotant, Hastings Resident vehemently opposed to ‘fracking’ To the editor: Fracking for oil and gas is likely to be dangerous to the health of people in the area. The Banner says that 134 leases have already been made to allow for fracking. The immediate consequences for people and your lakes and streams may be quick and awful. See the article in the April 12 Banner. Leasing will bring quick and seemingly easy money to the property owners who make leases, but they too could be poisoned by the Carl Levin, Senior U.S. senator from Michigan Pratt is best candidate To the editor: This letter is in support of Julie Pratt to become Barry County prosecutor. She is the best candidate for the August primary. Julie is fair, honest and a hard worker. If something needs to be done, she does it. If something needs to be said, she says it. Julie is not afraid to make tough decisions. She is very easy to talk to and is always willing to help people. That’s why I am going to cast my vote for Julie Pratt for prosecutor. Kent Enyart, Delton gasses in their drinking water. There are meetings in Barry County about this unhealthy development which property owners and interested people ought to attend. The tourist business here could be quickly ruined by this underground business being carried forth. Prudence would dictate putting a stop to fracking in Barry County. George C. Williston, Hastings CELL PHONE BOOSTER To the editor: In response to inquiry about ‘fracking,” I am registering an opinion: diametrically, unequivocally, and vehemently opposed to fracking. Kathryn E. Noren, Rutland, Township proudly present... Upcoming Adventures SHIPSHEWANA Tuesday, May 22 and June 26 CEDAR POINT June 12 CHICAGO SHOPPING June 16 Write Us A Letter: Friday-Saturday-Sunday April 27, 28, May 4, 5 at 7:00 PM April 29 & May 6 at 2:00 PM Dress Rehearsal - Thursday, April 26 ZOO TRIPS June 23 and August 4, 11 BEAR CREEK FARMS FT. The Glen Miller Orchestra July 19 & 20 Open to the public - All Seats $5.00 MISSISSIPPI RIVER CRUISE July 25 - 28 Barry Community Enrichment Center SOUTH DAKOTA Black Hills, Badlands & More! August 14 - 22 (Leason Sharpe Hall) 231 South Broadway, Hastings Tickets: Adults - $8, Children, Students & Seniors - $6 Call or email for more information or a complete brochure! 517.647.2050 or 855.219.0085 hartzlertours@gmail.com Up to date information can always be found at Tickets available at the door and at Progressive Graphics. There is limited seating 06779504 The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. The Hastings to protect this vital economic resource. Whether you depend on the Great Lakes for employment, drinking water, recreation or all of the above and more, the preservation of these natural jewels is among our highest responsibilities. We must all continually fight for the funding and focus we need to protect our Great Lakes. Residents should attend meetings about fracking 06778835 To the editor: In a March 29 news report in the Banner referring to the Barry County Circuit Court, the circuit court judge is quoted as stating “I found the prosecutor to be negligent, but the conduct was not intentional.” Why would there even be “unintentional negligence?” Is the prosecutor’s office serving the people of Barry County professionally? Our prosecutor has been in office for six years. Prior to that, he was assistant prosecutor in Barry County, Montmorency County and the City of Flint. He claims many years of experience as both a private attorney and a prosecutor. Yet, he or his office is guilty of negligence. What gives here? Four years ago, when asking for your vote, he pledged that he, or the assistant prosecutor would manage criminal cases from start to final outcome. Was this negligence due to incompetent management? Or was the prosecutor himself neglectful? As a voter in Barry County, I have many unanswered questions concerning this prose- grant opportunities to work with the federal government to protect and restore coastal zone areas across the nation, including the Great Lakes region. It’s significant that Great Lakes lawmakers of both parties are working together to support these important efforts. But our work does not end with these programs. I’ve also encouraged my colleagues on the appropriations committee to boost funding for other efforts to block the spread of Asian carp and for research into longer-term and less expensive solutions to the Asian carp problem. We should fund efforts to analyze on an urgent basis the separation of the Great Lakes and Mississippi River watersheds to prevent the spread of invasive species. We need to continue strong funding for efforts to control the sea lamprey. And I’ve asked them to restore funding omitted in this year’s budget for the Great Lakes Fishery and Ecosystem Restoration Program, which helps combat damage to important habitats. I’m also working to ensure that the Great Lakes remain a foundation of the regional economy by pushing for enhanced funding of harbor maintenance. There is a backlog of maintenance needs for harbors on the Great Lakes and around the nation, yet we are failing to use money from a trust fund intended for harbor maintenance. I’m hopeful Congress will act soon to free up this money 07597947 IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV To the editor: The Great Lakes are many things: drivers of America’s economy, invaluable links in our transportation system, source of drinking water for millions, vast spaces for recreation, and source of identity and culture. As the weather warms up and we celebrate Earth Day, it’s worth reminding ourselves of why the lakes are so important — and of our responsibilities as their stewards. A few weeks ago, I joined with Sen. Ron Kirk of Illinois, my co-chair on the Senate Great Lakes Task Force, and other Great Lakes lawmakers to advocate for important programs as Congress considers the 2013 budget. In letters to our colleagues on the Senate Appropriations Committee, we focused on the following: Support for the president’s funding request for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, which addresses invasive species, contamination and pollution, and encourages government agencies at all levels of government to work together to protect the lakes. Continued funding is vital for a whole host of restoration and protection efforts and produced measurable results. The need to extend the Army Corps of Engineers’ emergency authority to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species from the Mississippi River Basin to the Great Lakes. The electric fence in the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal — the main link between the river and the lakes — is an important aspect of this. But as concerns grow about the possibility that Asian carp and other damaging species could find other ways into the lakes, we asked appropriators to ensure that the corps’ authority covers any potential water pathway. Support for the International Joint Commission, which monitors and supports cross-boundary environmental needs of the Great Lakes between the U.S. and Canada, and the Great Lakes Fishery Commission, which works to prevent the spread of the aggressive, invasive species such as the sea lamprey. These bodies help ensure that international borders and boundaries between states, localities and tribal governments do not hamper our efforts to protect the lakes. Support for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Coastal Zone Management Program, which gives states www. hartzlertours.com ! Don’t delay, tours are filling fast, inquire today! Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Helen Mudry • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 77567391 Published by... �Page 6 — Thursday, April 26, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Keep your friends and relatives informed! Send them... Area Obituaries The Hastings Banner To subscribe, call us at 269-945-9554 Worship Together… Imogene M. Root Sharon Ann Duffy Nancy L. Stonehouse HASTINGS, MI - Sharon Ann Duffy, age 73, of Hastings passed away April 21, 2012, peacefully at her home. She was born July 30, 1938 in Hastings, the daughter of Dan and Madeline (Durbin) Shay. Sharon attended Hastings High School, graduating in 1956. She married Joseph Duffy on October 25, 1956. Sharon was employed by Pennock Hospital and Eye & ENT Specialists, retiring from Dr. Jeffery Dinges’‚ office in 2008. Sharon’s gift was caring for others. She enjoyed gardening, knitting, spending time at the beach, Bible study, baking and doing random acts of kindness for others. She was preceded in death by her parents, Dan and Madeline Shay; husband, Joe Duffy; daughter, Theresa Duffy and brother, Jack Shay. Sharon is survived by her son, Dan (Theresa) Duffy of Byron Center; daughters, Katie (Paul) Skinner of Elmore, AL, Colleen (George) Takacs of Kalamazoo and Polly (Tom) Herbstreith of Hastings; grandchildren, Katy (Eric) Rendak, Matt and Josh Duffy, Alex Skinner, Nathan, Abbie and Ryan Takacs, Megan, Hannah and Ben Herbstreith; siblings, Mike (JoAnn) Shay of Battle Creek, Sue Shea of Guerneville, CA, Shirley Keeler of Hastings; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Memorial contributions may be made to the Commission on Aging, 320 W. Woodlawn Ave., Hastings, MI 49058. A funeral mass will be held Thursday, April 26, 2012 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Rose of Lima Church, 807 S. Jefferson, Hastings, MI. Fr. Richard Altine, celebrant. A luncheon will follow the Mass. Burial will take place at Mt Calvary Cemetery. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message to the family. Nancy L. Stonehouse went to be with her Lord on April 22, 2012. Nancy was born in Hastings, April 16, 1940, the daughter of Roger and Marie (Britten) Converse Sr. Nancy Converse and Bob Stonehouse were married in 1959. Nancy worked in health care for 28 years in medical records. She was a volunteer for the foster grandparents program at the schools and a member of the Grace Lutheran Church for many years. Nancy enjoyed cooking and baking for her family and friends, reading and shopping. Her favorite hobby was going camping with her family and friend Jerry Knickerbocker. Nancy also enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Robert; and brother, Donald Wayne. Nancy is survived by her three children: son, David Stonehouse; daughter, Robin (Scott) Bond and son, Michael (Susan) Stonehouse; several grandchildren and great grandchildren; siblings, Steve Converse Dan Avery, Roger (LaWanda) Converse, Carol (Steve) Bolo; many nieces, nephews and special friend Jerry Knickerbocker. Visitation will be held Thursday, April 26, 2012 from 2 until 3 p.m. at the Grace Lutheran Church, 239 E. North St., Hastings, MI 49058. A funeral service will immediately follow visitation, starting at 3 p.m. Charles Converse Jr. officiating the service. A luncheon will follow the funeral service at the church. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message for the family. 77567220 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. CHURCH OF THE LIVING GOD A full gospel church. 1240 W. State Rd., Hastings. Pastor Doug Davis. 269-948-9740. Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study 6 p.m. Sunday School and Youth Group for all ages. Come and worship the Lord with us! . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. ORANGEVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH 6921 Marsh Rd., 2 miles south of Gun Lake, Plainwell. Phone 269664-4377. OrangevilleBaptist. org. Pastors Dan Bowman and Adam Parmenter. Sundays - 9:45--10:45 a.m. “Dealing With Your Past” March through May. March 25 - 6 p.m. “Messiah in the Passover’ Seder Meal. March 31 - 7 p.m. Orangeville Cafe. April 8 - 7:30 & 11 a.m. Easter Celebration. April 22-27 - Evangelist Will Rice. Children, teen and adult Sunday School classes; 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Worship; 5:30 p.m. Junior and Senior High Word of Life Clubs. Tuesday - 9 a.m. Men’s Prayer and Bible Study. Wednesday - 6:30 p.m. Pre-school through 6th grade Word of Life Gophers & Olympians. Prayer & Bible Study - 7 p.m. 6 p.m. Teen Word of Life. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Phone 269-721-8077. Minister Ryan Wieland 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Praise Worship Service; Noon alternate weekends Youth Group Tuesday. Covenant Prayer Group, Wednes-day 6:30 p.m., Choir Practice. Thursday 7 p.m. Praise Band Practice. 2nd and 4th Thursdays at 7 p.m. Christ’s Quilters. Friday 6:30 p.m., CPRChrist’s Plan for Recovery (meal served). For more information small groups, special evnts or if you have a prayer requst, call the church office and see postings on WEB site: www.countrychapel.umc.org. SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 or -517-852-1806. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. HASTINGS REFORMED CHURCH “A Historic Reformed Community.” Sunday morning services begin at 10 a.m. Meeting at the Barry County Commission on Aging building, 320 W. Woodlawn Ave., Hastings. Pastor: Peter Adams. 616-690-8609 padams@juno.com. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 9:15 Contemporary Worship, 10:30 a.m. Refreshments, 11 a.m. Traditional Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Pastor of Senior Adults and Visitation, Don Brail. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. for children, youths and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Senior High Youth Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Mid-Week: 6:30-7:45 p.m. Pioneer Clubs, age 4th to 5th grade, and Junior High Youth Group, 6th-8th grade. Thursday: 10 a.m. Senior Adult Discussion and 11:30 a.m., lunch at Wendy’s. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Sunday, April 29 - Worship at 10:00 a.m. Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. Potluck after worship. Holy Communion Every Sunday! April 29 - High School Youth Outing at 10 a.m.; Men’s AA at 7 p.m. April 30 Pennock Hospice at 5 p.m.; Adventurers Bible Study at 7; Spiritual AA at 7 p.m. May 1 - BOG (Men’s Group) at 7 p.m. May 2 Wordwatchers Bible Study at 10 a.m. May 3 - Clapper Kids Bell Choir at 3:45 p.m.; Grace Notes Bell Choir at 5:45 p.m.; Hare Raisers Rabbit Club at 7 p.m.; Choir at 7:15 p.m. 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 945-2645, fax 269-945-2698. Pastor Amy Luckey website http://www.discovergrace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 10 a.m. Sunday School for ALL Ages; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service; 6 p.m. Youth Group; 6 p.m. Adult Small Group. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian. blogspot.com. Thursday - 11:30 Women’s Brown Bag Bible Study; 6:30 p.m. Choir Rehearsal. Friday 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday - 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday - 4 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball; 6:30 p.m. Financial Peace University. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Fiberglass Products Lauer Family Funeral Homes 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 HASTINGS, MI - Imogene M. Root, age 75, of Hastings, passed away Tuesday, April 17, 2012 at her residence. She was born February 17, 1937 in Hastings, the daughter of George and Josephine (Waters) Kidder. Over the years, Imogene worked as a nurse, was employed by Viking Corporation and in later years worked at the Commission on Aging, where she retired from. She enjoyed crafts, flowers and gardening. Imogene was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Larry, and sister, Stella Jordan. She is survived by three children, Thomas Jones, Debbie Jones and Linda (Jones) Germain; and four brothers, Marshall Kidder, Wayne Martz, Doug Kidder and Tony Kidder. Respecting Imogene’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held at a later date. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message to the family. Dennis R. Crouch DIMONDALE & DELTON, MI - Dennis R. Crouch, 12/29/1942 - 3/15/2012, of Dimondale and Delton. Cremation has taken place. To my friends and family this is my final story till we meet again. I was looking forward to my Eastern 50th reunion this year; so enjoy it without me. Growing up in Lansing, I liked to torment my sisters, Linda Beckwith of Grand Junction and Heather Williams of Destin, FL, and we enjoyed talking about the old neighborhoods. Some happy times were spending time with my son Bart, who lived in Chicago, and when my daughter Erica married Eldon LaTray and settled in Montana and had Alyssa, Elijah and Eliot. When Kathy (Kreis) and I married 14 years ago, my family grew to include Chris and Marlena K. (Rebecca and Kyle McGill); Dennis and Deborah K. (Austin, Amberlee and Justin) and David Kreis II (Raven and KaSondra); great-granddaughter, Aurora M.; mother-in-law, Lila Williams; and in-laws, Steve and Ilda Williams and Anita Foglesong. I am part owner of Spartan Printing and finally retired a few years ago. I have been involved with the Jaycees, Lions, V.F.W. 422, Moose 1624 and Legion 484. I enjoyed fishing, hunting, golfing, special xmas shopping for 40 years and socializing. I have never met a stranger and Kathy has said I was put on this earth to have fun; I had to agree with her. We had a lot of fun wintering in the South and made a lot of new friends. Now I get to enjoy time with family who preceded me, parents, Jack and Kay Crouch; father-in-law, Roy W.; brothers-in-law, Ray B., Carol W. and Doug F.; pets, Mandy and Raz. Memorial services will be 11 a.m. Saturday, April 28, 2012 at Field & Leik Funeral Home, Dimondale. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Humane Society or the charity of your choice. Kerwin DeanPaige PORTLAND, MI- Kerwin Dean Paige, age 85, of Portland passed away January 19, 2012 in Lansing. He was born August 22, 1926, in Battle Creek the son of Walter and LuLu (Wilson) Paige. Kerwin married Wanda in 1947. She preceded him in death in 1994. He went on to marry Loeta Tack on May 11, 1995 in Las Vegas. Kerwin is survived by his loving wife of 16 years Loeta Wood of Portland; son, Kevin Paige of Virgin Islands; brothers, Robert Paige of Bellevue and Wayne (Joan) Paige of Belevue; grandchildren, Matthew, Jacob and Toni and four great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by one brother and one sister. A graveside service will be held 2:30 p.m., Saturday, April 28, 2012 at Riverside Cemetery in Hastings. Arrangements by Lake Funeral Home in Ionia. Online condolences may be made at www.lakefuneralhomes.com. William Harold LeForce HASTINGS, MI - William Harold LeForce, age 69, of Hastings, passed away April 22, 2012 at home, unexpectedly. He was born November 19, 1942 in Vinita, OK, the son of Ora B. and Alma (Cox) LeForce. Bill attended school in Oklahoma. He honorably served in the US Marines. Bill married Virginia on August 27, 2005. He was employed at Dean Foods in Wayland, until he retired. Bill enjoyed hunting, fishing and drinking coffee with friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, John, Roy, Donald, and Samuel; sisters, Maxine, Marge, Kathy, Laverine, Betty and Gracie. Bill is survived by his wife, Virginia R. LeForce; brothers, Bob Christian and Jim Christian; daughter, Dawn Michelle; son, Ronald LeForce; special niece, Deb LeForce; sister, Viola LeForce; several nieces, nephews, granddaughters and grandsons. Visitation will be held, Friday, April 27, from 10:30 a.m. until noon at the Woodgrove Brethren Christian Parish, 4887 Coats Grove Rd., Hastings, MI 49058. The funeral service will immediately follow visitation at noon. Pastor Randall Bertrand officiating the service. A luncheon will be served at the church, following the service. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message for the family. Joseph R. Ranguette HASTINGS, MI - Joseph R. Ranguette, age 94, of Hastings, passed away April 23, 2012 at Pennock Hospital in Hastings. He was born January 5, 1918 in Schaffer, MI, the son of Joseph and Leontine (Derouin) Ranguette. Joe attended school in Schaffer. He honorably served in the US Army from 1941 through 1945 during World War II. Joe served in the South Pacific on Guadalcanal. He married Mary M. Barry on February 19, 1955 in Angola, IN. Joe worked for the North Western Railroad in the U.P, prior to serving in the Army. After service in the Army, he worked for E.W. Bliss in Hastings for 31 years. Joe was a member of the VFW Post 8260 in Nashville, American Legion Post 45 in Hastings and the Hastings Moose Lodge 628. His hobbies included fishing and playing euchre, cribbage, and pinochle. Joe was preceded in death by his parents; mothers and fathers-in-law; four sisters; one brother; his first wife and stepson, Steve Strickland. Joe is survived by his wife of 57 years, Mary of Hastings; daughter, Lois (Manuel) Ozuna of Hastings; son, Armand (Bonnie) Ranguette of Hastings; grandchildren, Rochelle Day, Darnell (Catie) Day, Jessica (Keith) Troyer, Hillary Ranguette and fiance‚ Steve; great-grandchildren, Weston “Watson” Troyer, Reuben “Joe-Joe” Day, and Piper “Pickle” Koslakiewicz and two more great grandchildren on the way; brothers-in-law, Roy (Greta) Barry, Lawrence (Arlene) Barry, Lynn (Peg) Barry; sister-in-law, Ruby Howell. Also survived by step-grandchildren, Amanda, Derek and Joel Strickland; special nephews/nieces, Harold (Joyce) Nelson, Ron (Kathy) Peltin, Jane (Carl) Jacobson and Mary (Fran) Guindon. Cremation has taken place and burial with full military honors was held at Fort Custer National Cemetery, Augusta. Memorial contributions may be made to the following organizations: American Legion, Post #45, 2160 S. M-37 Hwy., Hastings, MI 49058; Nashville VFW Post #8260, 304 S. State St., Nashville, MI 49073; or the Hastings Moose Lodge, 128 N. Michigan, Hastings, MI 49058. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a message or memory for the family. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, April 26, 2012 — Page 7 Zona Thomas wishes to thank everyone who visited, traveled, or planned for my especially happy 90th Birthday! Your wonderful cards, flowers, and generous gifts brightened my day. No one could have more loving friends, caregivers, neighbors, and family. May God richly bless you all. Ms. Brandi Lydy of Hastings and Mr. Paul Melkild of Lowell are pleased to announce an engagement this past December! Celebrating with the happy couple are the bride’s parents, Barbara Sloan of Hastings and Mike and Rebecca Lydy of Hastings, and the groom’s parents, Carmen Melkild of Lowell and Chris Melkild of Traverse City, and many other beloved family members and close friends. The wedding will take place in Hastings and forever begins this June. Marriage Licenses Scott Gerald Corrion, Hastings Christine Joy Shipley, Hastings. Robert John Ellis, Hickory Corners Janet Lawave Ellis, Hickory Corners. Brandon Scott Lawrence, Delton Beverly Grade Simpson, Delton. Zackary Scott Woodman, Woodland Laura Marie Kirschensteiner, Ovid. Ella Joy, born at Pennock Hospital on April 2, 2012 at 8:01 a.m. to Steven and Emily Gary of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 6 oz. and 20 inches long. ***** Leigha Renee, born at Pennock Hospital on April 7, 2012 at 6:22 a.m. to Jessica Donovan and Brett Meyer of Woodland. Weighing 6 lbs. 4 ozs. and 18 3/4 inches long. ***** Rosalie Elaine, born at Pennock Hospital on March 30, 2012 at 12:55 a.m. to Greg and Cindy Faubert of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 2 ozs. and 19 inches long. ***** Bo Stanley, born at Pennock Hospital on March 30, 2012 at 8 a.m. to Rachel and Matthew Bourassa of Hastings. Weighing 8 lbs. 2 ozs. and 21 inches long. ***** ® ing Memory v o L o The Jason A. Rose 77567357 May 7th at 7:00pm in the Barry Enrichment Center 231 S. Broadway in Leason Sharp Hall for Three One Act Plays to be presented on June 7, 8 & 9: Michael Moray & Jason Roper are directing. Questions? Call Michael at 517-449-7808. 77567431 The Still Alarm • The Ugly Duckling • The Twelve-Pound Look and and and Michael Jacob, born at Pennock Hospital on April 4, 2012 at 5:42 p.m. to Lacie and Mike Moreau of Freeport. Weighing 7 lbs. 11 ozs. and 21 inches long. ***** Meekah Grace, born at Pennock Hospital on April 9, 2012 at 8:06 a.m. to Joe and Sarrah Johnson of Hastings. Weighing 8 lbs. 6 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Persephone Elana, born at Pennock Hospital on April 10, 2012 at 9:40 a.m. to Mike and Cristin Laster of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 1 oz. and 20 inches long. ***** Myah Grace, born at Pennock Hospital on April l0, 2012 at 7:30 p.m. to Evan and Samantha Hawbaker of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 0 ozs. Your loving family on and Newborn Babies Forever loved and remembered! 06779430 OPEN AUDITIONS There are 15-20 available roles. Anyone ages 18 and over is welcome to audition. No preparation is necessary. Lydy-Melkild 7/26/78 - 4/25/04 The Thornapple Players will hold at n Jean Anderson will celebrate her 90th birthday with an open house on Saturday, April 28th from 1 to 4 p.m. at Pennock Village Community Room, 422 Oak Court. Serving cake, coffee and punch. No gifts please. f The Lakewood Wastewater Authority was informed on Friday by the Michigan Economic Development Administration that it will receive a grant award of $2.1 million for a plant expansion. Lake Odessa Village Manager Mark Bender, who also serves as chairman of the Lakewood Wastewater Authority Board, said the plant is in need of expansion. This news follows an announcement in December 2011 of a $325,914 grant from the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality that funded cleaning and televising of the authority’s entire collection system to detect failures in the system. In addition to the expansion project, the authority is in the early stages of making many necessary plant and collection system upgrades and repairs necessitated largely by the age of the system, which is 20 or more years old. The expansion portion of the project that is being funded by EDA is necessary because of upcoming plant expansions of Herbruck’s, Twin City Foods Inc. and Cargill Kitchen Solutions, the three largest contributors of the wastewater system, said Bender. “These plant expansions include major capital investment and job creation by all three users,” he noted. “This expansion will also have a notable indirect positive economic impact in the Lake Odessa area.” The upcoming job creation may pave the way for the authority to qualify for additional grant funds from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. “We have already met with representatives from MEDC, who have expressed interest in looking at the entire project and the local corporations’ upcoming investments and job creation as a way to leverage an additional grant project. If we are able to secure further grant assistance, it will help the authority keep future rate increases in check,” said Bender. Jean Anderson to celebrate 90th birthday 77564841 Lakewood Wastewater receives $2.1 million grant for sewer upgrades by Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Megan Riggs was like many other people in their late 20s: bright, ambitious and full of life. She had earned bachelor’s degrees in forensic science and biology, with a minor in chemistry. Riggs started working and building her career. In her spare time, she pursued her passion, competitive ballroom dancing. In January of 2008, Riggs had a major depressive episode. Her illness caused her to lose her job, and financial struggles resulted. Riggs qualified for Social Security disability benefits. The monthly payments helped keep her afloat financially, but even then she had the desire to work again. Knowing she would need help returning to work, she looked to Social Security’s Ticket to Work program and other work incentives for support on her path back to self-sufficiency. Once Riggs made her choice to participate in the Ticket to Work program, she decided to work with an employment network that provides support and guidance. Using her Ticket, she was able to test her abilities, build her confidence and continue to receive her benefits while working toward becoming fully self-sufficient. Through Social Security’s work incentives, she maintained her health care coverage, which gave her peace of mind. The Ticket to Work program helped Riggs achieve a more fulfilling life by helping her regain the satisfaction of work. She now enjoys working, reading, spending time with her cocker Spaniels and has even been able to return to competitive ballroom dancing. Thousands of Social Security beneficiaries like Megan Riggs have earned more money, begun careers, learned new skills and met new people through the Ticket to Work program. If you’re disabled and ready to change your life through work, this program may be the ticket for you, too. To learn more, visit www.socialsecurity.gov/work. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. St. Rose of Lima School KINDERGARTEN ROUND-UP St. Rose of Lima School is offering Gesell Screening on Thursday, April 26th 2012 for children who may be enrolled in kindergarten (five years old by December) for the 20122013 school year. Gesell Screening is an excellent indicator of Kindergarten Readiness. Please call St. Rose School at 269945-3164 to Schedule an appointment for your child. Please note that St. Rose will be offering all-day Kindergarten Monday through Friday, for the 2012-2013 school year. We are also currently accepting registrations for students in grades kindergarten through 6th for the 2012-2013 school year. Call St. Rose School at 269-945-3164 for more information and to schedule a time to visit our school. See if an education which continually produces students who make the Top Ten list of graduates from Barry County School is the best choice for your child(ren). RN/LPN Private Duty Immediate Openings Nashville, Marshall, Springport, Jackson Various Shifts Available Trach and Vent Experience Preferred Must have reliable transportation 77567372 FAMILY FUNERAL HOMES HASTINGS, MI - Bernard Lynn Peck Jr., age 82, of Hastings passed away unexpectedly, April 19, 2012 at the residence of his son and daughter-in-law. He was born July 5, 1929 in Hastings, the son of Bernard Lynn Sr. and Elsie (Johnson) Peck. Bernard attended Hastings High School, graduating in 1947. He honorably served in the US Army during the Korean War. While in the service, Bernard drove Jeep for the captain. He married Sandra Cramer on June 26, 1954. Bernard owned and operated the B&K drive-in and burger joint in Hastings. He spent most of his life farming. Bernard owned and operated various farms in Hastings, MI, Bruce Crossing, MI (1977) and Missouri (1995-2000). He built the Carlton Center Mobile Park. Bernard and Sandra returned to Hastings in 2000. He was a collector of Allis Chalmers tractors and memorabilia. Bernard had nine Allis Chalmers tractors and loved taking them to the Barry County Fair. Bernard loved to travel. Special destinations that he traveled to were: Paris, Alaska, Australia, Hawaii and Mexico. He loved going to “Phil’s Galley.” Bernard loved to talk with the staff and people there. He always had a wonderful story to tell about his life and could talk for hours about it. Bernard was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Sandra (2003) and son, Marc Peck (2007). He is survived by his sons, Timothy Scot (Joyce) Peck and Jeffrey Peck all of Hastings; grandchildren, Joy (James) Mize, Edward (Cathy) McCain; great-grandchildren, Kirsten, Danny and Joe Mize and Josh and Cailey McCain; close friend and dear companion, Donna Gutchess; gramps, Bill Cramer of Fruitland Park, Florida and beloved cat, Blackie Memorial contributions may be made to Gideons International, Memorial Bible Chairman of Barry/Hastings, P.O. Box 213, Hastings, MI 49058 Funeral services were held Wednesday, April 25, 2012 at Girrbach Funeral Home. Pastors Timm Oyer and Todd Clark, officiating. Burial took place at Striker Cemetery, Baltimore Township with full military honors provided by the American Legion Post #45. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guestbook or to leave a message or memory to the family. Social Security Ticket to Work inspires ballroom dancer I HASTINGS, MI - Grace Tabberer, age 95, passed away April 23, 2012 at Woodlawn Meadows in Hastings. Grace was born January 9, 1917 in Holland to Henry and Anna (Dirks) Teusink, who have preceded her in death. Grace was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years Harry, parents; four brothers; three sisters. During Grace’s lifetime she was employed at Blodgett Home for the children, then worked for Pennock Hospital until she married her husband. She graduated from Holland High School in 1935. Was a member of the Lake Odessa Brethren Church. She is survived by her sister, Geraldine (Gordon) Van Putten of Holland, and several nieces and nephews. For those who wish, memorial contributions can be made to Lake Odessa Brethren Church or Woodlawn Meadows Retirement Village. Visitation will be held on Friday, April 27, 2012 from 10 a.m. until time of services at 11 a.m. at Lauer Family Funeral Home – Wren Chapel, 1401 N. Broadway in Hastings with Pastor Robert Clinton officiating. Interment will take place at Evergreen Cemetery in Kinsley. Please share a memory with Grace’s family at www.lauerfh.com. SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN Bernard Lynn Peck Jr. 77567385 Grace Tabberer Please Send Resume to: recruiter@optimalstaffing.com �Page 8 — Thursday, April 26, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa the 2012 season. The church provides practice space each week for the multitude of singers who hail from several counties. Many are veterans of the group singing year after year. The risers accommodate most of the musicians, but others are seated in chairs. So, the Detroit Red Wings won 22 games without a loss. The Norfolk, Va., team on ice, which has Brian Garlock of Big Rapids as video co-ordinator, set a conference record when they won 25 games without a loss. Then they reached 28 games, they set a North American record. Alas, game 29 in the playoffs broke their winning streak. The CROP Walk is coming on Sunday, April 29 with the start and finish at Central United Methodist Church fellowship hall. Twenty-five percent of all recipients came back for use in the community by Lakewood Community Council to alleviate hunger. Last week’s windy days brought down a tall tree almost on the property line at the second house north of APEC, formerly occupied by the late Cobby Gerlinger. The tree fell across a driveway, blocking it completely and filling part of the front porch. Later in the day, helpers came with loppers and chainsaws to rid the driveway of most of the branches. Saturday Hesterly equipment and men came to dismantle the tree with chainsaws. They kept a wood chipper in constant use. Finally, all that remained were stacks of wood chunks along the terrace edge, a flat stump about two feet across and a useable driveway. The tree had split at a point about eight feet up its trunk. Speaking of tree trunks, a tree on Johnson Street in the 1300 block has a hallow spot several feet up where a big branch was removed years ago. This is the third spring when a mama raccoon has made it her home. She spends hours each day surveying the scenery from her high perch. She must leave some time to get food, but she is stealthy about it. A neighbor in other years has seen 77567229 by Elaine Garlock The depot complex will welcome the annual tour called Spring Into the Past, May 5 and 6, open to all local people as well as those from other communities who take advantage of free entry to all the 21 museums in the Tri River Museum group. Many of the museums will have special displays and exhibits. Others may have baked goods sales, recipe book or other items for sale. Hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. each Saturday and Sunday. Ed and Bonnie Leak have returned from their winter in Arizona. Home from Florida are Max and Phyllis Decker, Dick and Vergie Winkler, John and Carolyn Jackson. Those who attended the Tri-River Museum group meeting last week were treated to viewing the glider housed in the Flying Falcon Museum in Greenville. This remnant of World War II is open on one side for easy viewing. The other side has the entire exterior in place, painted and (almost) ready to go. Thirty people attended, with newcomers from Sunfield and Vermontville. Plans are in place for the July luncheon at Belrockton in Belding. The Ionia Chapter of Michigan Association of Retired School Personnel was hosted at the Ionia County Intermediate School office with the meal catered by Class Act at Heartlands. The Area 15 director from Eaton Rapids presided at her first meeting with the Ionia County group. Area 15 comprises Barry, Ionia and Eaton counties. A DVD gave information on insurance changes. The festival of tables Saturday again brought dozens of patrons to view the unusual table settings, enjoy a gourmet lunch and share with others their desire to expand the local library through their contributions. The Sunday concert at the Sunfield United Brethren Church was well attended by scores of people who came to enjoy the music of the Lakewood Area Choral Society, directed by Dr. Robert Oster. This was the first concert of her march up the street toward an open field followed by her young ones. Richard Pullman has been secured as speaker at the June alumni banquet to represent the class of 1962. Two nearby buildings have been razed. The second house on the property of the MacArthurs on Musgrove Highway northeast of town has been removed by the wrecking ball (or equivalent). North of town at Berlin Center, the Grange Hall which doubled as a township hall for voting purposes has been removed. First the upper story was taken off. Now it is down to a few rocks that were part of the foundation. The next-door Berlin Center United Methodist Church bought the property several months ago so the church’s dining room can be expanded to the east. In the old days, the church would serve a public dinner on voting day with a built-in crowd next door. Alethians of Central United Methodist Church were treated to music April 10 by the Veenstra family of Grand rapids with their singing accompanied by piano, guitar and bass. Then on Sunday afternoon the same group had another performance at the cloggers barn. The Veenstras gave an encore per- Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of Not long ago, the Federal Reserve (Fed) announced that it plans to keep short-term interest rates near zero until late 2014. The Fed initially pushed rates to that level in 2008, in an effort to stimulate economic growth. Clearly, low interest rates have a wide-ranging impact — but what effect will they have on you, as an individual investor? If you need income from your investments, then the continuation of ultra-low interest rates may be a matter of some concern, particularly if you own certain types of fixedincome investments, such as certificates of deposit. While CDs are insured, offer return of principal at maturity and provide regular interest payments, they are not risk-free. With low interest rates, you risk losing purchasing power. Still, fixed-rate vehicles may well have a place in your portfolio. If you’re even somewhat dependent on your investments for income, you may need to broaden your search. Here are a few ideas to consider: • Build a bond ladder. Long-term bonds, by their nature, are more subject to interest rate risk than shorter-term vehicles. In other words, interest rates are more likely to rise 77567223 during the life span of a longer-term bond — and when rates go up, the prices of existing bonds will fall. To help lower this risk, you may want to build a “ladder” of bonds of varying maturities. Then, if market interest rates are low, you’ll still have your long-term bonds earning higher rates, but if rates rise, you can take advantage of them by reinvesting the proceeds of your maturing short-term bonds. But remember to work with your financial advisor to evaluate whether a bond ladder and the securities held within it are consistent with your investment objectives, risk tolerance and financial circumstances. • Consider dividend-paying stocks. You can find companies that have paid dividends for many consecutive years — and in some cases, increased their dividend payout each year. In 2012, companies listed in the S&P 500 are on track to pay out more than $252 billion in dividends, a record amount, according to data compiled from Standard & Poor’s. (Keep in mind that the S&P 500 is an unmanaged index and is not available for direct investment.) Of course, stock prices will fluctuate in value, and you may receive more or less than your original investment when you sell. Historically, dividend-paying stocks have been less volatile than non-dividend-paying stocks. Be aware, though, that companies can lower or discontinue dividend payments at any time without notice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. • Refinance your mortgage. Today’s low rates are good news for borrowers. With tougher standards in place, it may not be as easy to refinance a mortgage as it once was, but if you qualify, you may want to think about refinancing. You may be able to save quite a bit of money on your monthly payments — and lower payments can translate into a greater cash flow. Plus, if you don’t need all the savings, you can put some of the money into an Individual Retirement Account 77567232 April 26, 2012 269-623-5824 For All Your Tent Rental Needs Looking for the Right People to fill one position in the afternoon. Mon.-Fri., 15-25 hours weekly Coaching Positions Available: Starting Date Varsity Girls Volleyball (August 2012) Fr. or JV Girls Volleyball (August 2012) Varsity Girls Basketball (Nov. 2012) Minimum Requirements: Be of good character. Be in good health. Applicants must have good public relations and interpersonal skills and enthusiasm for working with students. Knowledge of the sport you are applying for is required. Minimum Qualifications: High School Diploma. Persons applying should have the ability to get along with students, parents and other coaches. In addition, it is preferable for applicants to have coaching experience at or near the level for which they are applying. Varsity Applicants should be willing to put in off–season time needed to develop a quality program. Posting will be for a minimum of 5 days or until filled. Persons interested in applying for this position must submit a letter of application to: Mike Goggins, Athletic Director Hastings Area Schools 520 W. South St. Hastings MI. 49058 Or by e-mail at mgoggins@hassk12.org 77567295 07598017 On earning your Bachelor’s in Aviation Science and Administration! We’re proud of you! Jerin is currently employed at Western Michigan University as a Flight Instructor. If you know Jerin, please join us on Sunday, April 29th from 1-4 at his home in Middleville to celebrate! We’re proud of you Jerin... Love Mom, Mitch, Justin, Abbi and Logan! 77567418 Must be reliable, patient, energetic and eager to help children learn and grow!! Must be over 18. Please stop in for more information or call 269-623-5824 Jerin Voshell STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 31.70 +.09 AT&T 31.72 +.83 BP PLC 41.91 -1.36 CMS Energy Corp 22.24 +.26 Coca-Cola Co 74.12 +.17 Eaton 48.46 +.86 Family Dollar Stores 66.11 +1.41 Fifth Third Bancorp 13.95 -.41 Flowserve CP 111.98 -2.22 Ford Motor Co. 11.39 -.52 General Mills 38.64 -.48 General Motors 22.89 -1.15 Intel Corp. 27.31 -1.16 Kellogg Co. 50.43 -3.35 McDonald’s Corp 94.59 -2.52 Pfizer Inc. 22.63 +.32 Ralcorp 72.52 -1.72 Sears Holding 50.59 -6.79 Spartan Motors 4.59 -.15 Spartan Stores 17.88 -.35 Stryker 53.16 -1.73 TCF Financial 11.30 +.13 Walmart Stores 57.77 -4.10 Gold $1,641.78 -8.55 Silver $30.84 -.86 Dow Jones Average 13,001 -115 Volume on NYSE 710M +46M POSTINGS FOR COACHING POSITIONS TWO BROTHERS AND A TENT 77566915 (IRA) or another retirement savings vehicles. Ultimately, an extended period of low interest rates is just one more factor to consider in creating and adjusting your investment strategy. Work with your financial advisor to help ensure low rates won’t affect your income needs. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. HASTINGS AREA SCHOOL SYSTEM Hastings, Michigan 1012 S. M-43 Hwy., Delton Call: Dan McKinney 269-838-7057 or Tom McKinney 269-838-3842 EDWARD JONES Even with low rates, you can invest for income 77567226 Tables and chairs available. formance and had as an added attraction two songs by six young grandchildren. Ionia County has released figures on funding for county roads. Odessa Township had the lowest amount of any township with $56,219 worth of work done. Thelma Jackson was the honored guest at a 100th birthday party at the Odessa Township Hall April 22. Nine of her 10 children are living. At the recent art exhibit at the depot complex, her son Eldon exhibited a painting of his mother’s interests which included a line of quart jars of tomatoes she canned each year her family was home. THE HASTINGS AREA SCHOOL SYSTEM IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. NOW OPEN Woody’s General Store 110 W. State Street DOWNTOWN HASTINGS Featuring... Moo-ville Milk & Cheeses — OPEN 24 HOURS — Coffe¢ e 89 Any Size Come Down and See Us 77567393 06778634 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, April 26, 2012 — Page 9 ORDER FOR LAYING OUT AND DESIGNATING A DRAINAGE DISTRICT Whereas, an application in writing, dated the 11th day of June 2011, has been made and filed with me, the County Drain Commissioner for the Barry County, Michigan, praying for the Laying Out and Designating of a Drainage District, with reference to a certain Drain, proposed to be named as follows: Middleville Towne Center Drain Drainage District; And Whereas, the application was signed by the Charles Pullen, on behalf of the Village of Middleville, as authorized by its governing authority pursuant to Resolution dated June 14, 2011 which the Village of Middleville will be liable for an at-large assessment on the Drain; And Whereas, as a means of determining the amount of tax or special assessments remaining unpaid on the tax rolls for the three years preceding this order, I did obtain a statement from the County Treasurer, and from that statement I find taxes and special assessments remaining unpaid to be less than two (2%) percent. And Whereas, as a further means of determining the practicability of the proposed drain, I did cause a survey to be made by Fitzgerald Henne & Associates, Inc. and as well as Williams & Works. Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz revisited Now, Therefore, I do hereby determine that the application for Laying Out and Designating a Drainage District for the drain should be granted, and I do hereby determine from the survey that the drain is practicable, in accordance with the survey which is more particularly specified below. And I do further determine that the name or number of the Drain shall be the “Middleville Towne Center Drain,” by which name or number it shall hereafter be known and recorded. It is further ordered and determined that the commencement, route and terminus of the drain and the width, length and depth thereof shall be in accordance with the survey, as follows: ‘HORSE POWER’ – Shirley Gillespie (left) and his dad, William, are pictured with their large team of Belgians with their big farm tractors flanking them to show additional “horse power” used in working the WIlliam Gillespie’s 170-acre farm north of Thornapple Lake on the Center Road. The William Gillespie farm was the fifth pictured in the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz sponsored by The Banner and 35 Barry County merchants. The Will Gillespies are no relation to the Robert Gillespies, west of Dowling, whose farm was pictured the week before last. – Photo by Barth. [Editor’s Note - The copy of the photo that ran with the original was not reproducable. The cutline that ran with the original photo read as follows.] LUCKY FARMER - Mr. and Mrs. Robert Gillespie, Route 1, Dowling, are pictured with one of their red Dane cows which they developed on their farm located a mile and a half west of Dowling. The Gillespie’s 160-acre farm, known as the old Hinchman place, was the fourth Barry County farm to be shown in the aerial photograph in the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz sponsored by The Banner and 35 progressive Barry County merchants. The picture was taken in front of the large barn Gillespie is improving all by himself. He intends to convert the structure into a modern dairy barn to house his growing red Dane herd which he began developing in 1946. – Photo by Barth. This is the fourth part of a series reprinting the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz promotion that ran in the Banner 60 years ago. An unidentified aerial photo of an area farm was pictured in the Banner each week, from Jan. 24 to July 17, 1952, and the owners of the mystery farms were featured in the paper the following week. The two families featured this week are both named Gillespie, but according to the 1952 paper, they were not related. ***** Hastings Banner, Feb. 14, 1952 ‘Lucky Farmer’ developing red Dane dairy herd A Barry County dairy farmer who is developing a red Dane herd along with expansion and modernization of his physical plant is Robert Gillespie, whose Baltimore Township farm was pictured as the fourth in the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz series. Robert Gillespie and his wife, Florence (Hall), purchased the 160-acre farm in December of 1943, and since that time have improved the buildings and are continuing to develop them. Gillespie, doing most of the work himself, is constructing a modern dairy barn out of the large, sturdy 64-by-40 structure that was used as the horse barn when the Hinchmans owned the land. The farm itself was first owned by Joseph R. Williams on a U.S. patent dated May 31, 1839, but the deed wasn’t recorded until May 9, 1877. The Gillespies purchased it from Charles Nease who was killed in a railroad crossing accident in Nashville in December of 1949. Nease had purchased it from Cyrus Larabee. What helped the Gillespies to decide on buying the farm was a girlhood memory Mrs. Gillespie had harbored. When they went looking at farms and saw one she had visited while a youngster, she knew it was the one they wanted. In 1946, Gillespie began developing his red Dane herd from grade cows using artificial breeding. In 1948 and 1949, according to DHIA [Dairy Herd Improvement Association] records, his herd produced 6,966 pounds of milk, testing 4.15 percent and 289.2 pounds butterfat. The next year the yield went to 7,492 pounds of milk testing 4.1 percent and 307.9 pounds butterfat, and in 1950-51 his herd was eighth for DHIA No. 3 with 9,318 pounds of milk and 403.5 butterfat. [The property, now divided into several parcels, was on East Dowling Road, just east of Banfield Road in Section 32.] ***** Hastings Banner, Feb. 21, 1952 The Will Gillespie farm fifth pictured in photo quiz Mr. and Mrs. William J. Gillespie, Route 3, Hastings, were winners No. 5 of the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz being sponsored by The Banner and 35 Barry County merchants. Mr. and Mrs. Gillespie, who are wellknown in this community, have resided on the farm pictured in last week’s issue of The Banner for the last 45 years. The farm is about a half-mile north of Thornapple Lake on the Center Road [Section 19 of Castleton Township.]. The Gillespies were married Jan. 16, 1907, at the home of Mrs. Gillespie’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Calvin H. Parmer. Mrs. Gillespie was born in Baltimore Township near Striker School and attended that school. Her husband was born April 19, 1882, in Fivemiletown, Ireland, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Alex Gillespie. He came to this country with his parents when 18 months old. His parents took over the farm now operated by Will’s brother, Elmer, about a half-mile west of the “Lucky” farm. Will Gillespie had his farm about two years before he was married. They started with 40 acres and now have 170 acres. Their son, Shirley, 38, who resides in a modern home across the road, works the farm but has help from his dad. Will erected the large, 34-by-66 barn and most of the other buildings. He was a carpenter and for about the first 10 years of his married life worked on other barns, including the Merle Richardson barn, the former Charlton barn, and others. The land on his farm was cleared when he purchased it, but he says, “we had to move the stones.” The Gillespies have a herd of 35 Guernsey cattle. In addition to their son, Shirley, the Gillespies have three daughters, Mrs. Sarah Laubaugh of Baldwin; Mrs. Lee Bell, whose husband is the shepherd of the sheep at Michigan State College; and Mrs. Walter Brown, of near Wooodland. BEGINNING AT A STORMWATER DETENTION POND LOCATED APPROXIMATELY 125 FEET WEST OF M-37 AND APPROXIMATELY 450 FEET SOUTHEAST OF THE INTERSECTION OF M-37 AND TOWNE CENTER DRIVE, LOCATED IN THE EAST ? OF SECTION 22 OF THE VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE, TOWNSHIP 4 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN. THENCE SOUTHEASTERLY THROUGH SAID STORMWATER DETENTION POND APPROXIMATELY 200 FEET, THENCE NORTHEASTERLY THROUGH A STORM SEWER UNDER M-37 APPROXIMATELY 100 FEET TO A STORMWATER DETENTION BASIN LOCATED APPROXIMATELY 75 FEET EAST OF M-37 AND 50 FEET WEST OF ARLINGTON COURT, SAID STORMWATER DETENTION BASIN LOCATED BETWEEN M-37 AND ARLINGTON COURT; THENCE APPROXIMATELY 650 FEET EAST TO THE 100-YEAR FLOODPLAIN ELEVATION OF THE THORNAPPLE RIVER AND THE POIaNT OF ENDING OF THIS DESCRIPTION. It is further ordered and determined that the following lands shall constitute the Drainage District and are described as: PART OF THE EAST 1/2 OF SECTION 22 OF THE VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE, TOWNSHIP 4 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS: BEGINNING AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF LOT 33 PLAT OF CHARLESON HEIGHTS ADDITION NO 2 TO THE VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE, BEING A SUBDIVISION IN PART OF SECTION 22, TOWNSHIP 4 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST, VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AS RECORDED IN LIBER 4, PAGE 62, BARRY COUNTY RECORDS; THENCE NORTHERLY ALONG THE WEST LINE OF LOT 34 SAID PLAT OF CHARLESON HEIGHTS ADDITION NO 2 TO THE VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE, A DISTANCE OF 125.8 FEET MORE OR LESS TO THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF LOT 23 PLAT OF CHARLSON HEIGHTS ADDITION NO. 1 TO THE VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE, BEING A SUBDIVISION IN PART OF SECTION 22, TOWNSHIP 4 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST, VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AS RECORDED IN LIBER 4, PAGE 42, BARRY COUNTY RECORDS; THENCE WESTERLY ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SAID LOT 23 A DISTANCE OF 135 FEET MORE OR LESS TO THE EASTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF CHARLES AVENUE; THENCE NORTHERLY ALONG SAID EASTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE 75 FEET MORE OR LESS TO THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF LOT 22, SAID PLAT OF CHARLESON HEIGHTS ADDITION NO. 1 TO THE VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE; THENCE NORTHWESTERLY 99.9 FEET MORE OR LESS TO THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF LOT 16 SAID PLAT OF CHARLESON HEIGHTS ADDITION NO. 1 TO THE VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE; THENCE N 54°21’ W 73 FEET MORE OR LESS TO A LINE PARALLEL WITH AND 60 FEET WESTERLY FROM THE WESTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF CHARLES STREET; THENCE NORTHERLY ALONG SAID PARALLEL LINE 198 FEET MORE OR LESS TO A LINE PARALLEL WITH AND 61 FEET SOUTHERLY FROM THE SOUTHERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF BERNARD STREET; THENCE WESTERLY ALONG SAID PARALLEL LINE 117 FEET MORE OR LESS TO THE EAST LINE OF LOT 19 PLAT OF SENECA RIDGE, BEING A SUBDIVISION IN PART OF SECTION 22, TOWNSHIP 4 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST, VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AS RECORDED IN LIBER 6, PAGE 63, BARRY COUNTY RECORDS; THENCE NORTHERLY ALONG SAID EAST LOT LINE 61 FEET MORE OR LESS TO THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF SAID LOT 19, ALSO BEING THE SOUTHERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF BENARD STREET; THENCE NORTHERLY 60 FEET MORE OR LESS TO A POINT ON THE NORTHERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF BENARD STREET SAID POINT LYING 4.6 FEET EASTERLY FROM THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF LOT 18 OF SAID PLAT OF SENECA RIDGE; THENCE N 46°10’ W 95 FEET MORE OR LESS TO A LINE PARALLEL WITH AND 43 FEET EASTERLY FROM THE EASTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF ACADIA COURT; THENCE NORTHERLY ALONG SAID PARALLEL LINE A DISTANCE OF 139 FEET MORE OR LESS TO THE NORTH LINE OF LOT 17 SAID PLAT OF SENECA RIDGE; THENCE N 12°03’ E 127 FEET; THENCE N 67° W 121 FEET; THENCE NORTH 328 FEET MORE OR LESS TO THE NORTHERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF TOWNE CENTER DRIVE; THENCE NORTHEASTERLY ALONG SAID NORTHERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF TOWNE CENTER DRIVE A DISTANCE OF 893 FEET MORE OR LESS TO THE SOUTHWESTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF STATE HIGHWAY M-37; THENCE NORTHWESTERLY ALONG SAID SOUTHWESTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE 286 FEET; THENCE NORTHEASTERLY AT A RIGHT ANGLE TO SAID SOUTHWESTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE 120 FEET MORE OR LESS TO THE NORTHEASTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF SAID STATE HIGHWAY M-37; THENCE S 89°50’ E 89 FEET MORE OR LESS TO A LINE PARALLEL WITH AND 78 FEET NORTHEASTERLY FROM THE NORTHEASTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF SAID STATE HIGHWAY M-37; THENCE SOUTHEASTERLY ALONG SAID PARALLEL LINE A DISTANCE OF 469 FEET; THENCE S 89°50’ E 154.4 FEET MORE OR LESS TO THE WESTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF ARLINGTON STREET; THENCE NORTHERLY ALONG SAID WESTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE 432 FEET; THENCE EASTERLY AT A RIGHT ANGLE TO SAID WESTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE 66 FEET MORE OR LESS TO THE EASTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF SAID ARLINGTON STREET; THENCE SOUTHERLY ALONG SAID EASTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE A DISTANCE OF 418 FEET; THENCE S 48°31’ E 126 FEET; THENCE S 00°40’ E 237 FEET; THENCE S 71°20’ E 276 FEET; THENCE S 64°40’ W 188 FEET; THENCE S 00°44’ W 310 FEET; THENCE S 35°51’ W 297.10 FEET MORE OR LESS TO THE EASTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF STATE HIGHWAY M37/ARLINGTON STREET; THENCE SOUTHERLY ALONG SAID EASTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE 304 FEET; THENCE WESTERLY ALONG SAID RIGHT OF WAY LINE 36 FEET; THENCE SOUTHERLY ALONG SAID EASTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE 545 FEET; THENCE WESTERLY AT A RIGHT ANGLE TO SAID EASTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE 66 FEET MORE OR LESS TO THE WESTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF STATE HIGHWAY M-37/ARLINGTON STREET; THENCE N 48°24’ W 207 FEET; THENCE N 72°33’ W 161 FEET; THENCE S 83°13’ W 335 FEET; THENCE N 13°36’ W 101.9 FEET MORE OR LESS TO A POINT ON THE NORTH LINE OF LOT 33, SAID PLAT OF CHARLESON HEIGHTS ADDITION NO. 2 TO THE VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE, SAID POINT LYING 46.4 FEET EASTERLY FROM THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF SAID LOT 33; THENCE WESTERLY ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SAID LOT 33 A DISTANCE OF 46.4 FEET MORE OR LESS TO THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF SAID LOT 33 AND THE POINT OF BEGINNING OF THIS DESCRIPTION. It is further ordered and determined that the following cities, villages and townships, county roads and state highways are benefited by the proposed drain and therefore may be liable to assessment: KELLOGG COMMUNITY COLLEGE Visit our website at http://jobs.kellogg.edu for information regarding job duties and requirements and to apply for the following position: Kellogg Community College is looking for part-time instructors for the following area: Village of Middleville Barry County MDOT Given under my hand, this ____day of ___________________, 20___ . ADJ-43 Adjunct Instructor – Welding (Hastings, Michigan) To apply go to http://jobs.kellogg.edu. Our applicant process requires all materials be submitted online for posted positions. If you have questions about the online process, please call 269-565-2074 or e-mail hr@kellogg.edu. Russell Yarger Barry County Drain Commissioner 77567298 �Page 10 — Thursday, April 26, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Kenneth Cogswell a married man and Holly Cogswell a married women, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated February 17, 2003, and recorded on March 14, 2003 in instrument 1099484, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Chase Home Finance, LLC as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Fifty-Eight Thousand Six Hundred SeventyNine and 15/100 Dollars ($58,679.15). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 24, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 30 and 31 of Hardendorf Addition to the Village of Nashville, according to the recorded Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 74. Also, The South 1/2 of Lots 32 and 33 of the Plat of the Hardendorf Addition to the Village of Nashville, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 74 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #399284F01 77567359 (04-26)(05-17) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Deborah L Larson, A Single Woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated March 7, 2011, and recorded on March 10, 2011 in instrument 201103100002310, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Everbank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Four Thousand Two Hundred Forty-Six and 20/100 Dollars ($124,246.20). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 10, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 8 and 9 of Bristol Oaks, according to the Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 4 of Plats, on Page 66. Together with a perpetual easement in common with others for driveway purposes, across and upon those private drives as now located and used that provide access to this property from a public highway as set forth in deeds recorded in Liber 291, on Page 397 and Liber 353, on Page 316. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #398293F01 06778314 (04-12)(05-03) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Shirley Little a/k/a Shirley A. Little, by Lorenna Jo Wright, her power of attorney and William F. Little, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 24, 2008, and recorded on August 22, 2008 in instrument 20080822-0008487, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Seven Thousand Thirteen and 59/100 Dollars ($97,013.59). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 17, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 8 Block 7, of the Eastern Addition to the City, formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded Plat thereof, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #398979F01 06778628 (04-19)(05-10) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Kyle Main, single man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 1, 2005, and recorded on July 6, 2005 in instrument 1149102, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Flagstar Bank, FSB as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fourteen Thousand One Hundred NinetyOne and 34/100 Dollars ($114,191.34). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 24, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Baltimore, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel 1: Beginning 8 rods East of the Southwest corner of Section 34, Town 2 North, Range 8 West, Baltimore Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence North 40 Rods, thence East 4 Rods; thence South 40 rods, thence West 4 rods to the place of beginning Parcel 2: Beginning 12 rods East of the Southwest corner of Section 34, Town 2 North, Range 8 West, Baltimore Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence North 40 rods, thence East 4 Rods; thence South 40 rods; thence West 4 rods to the place of beginning The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #274135F02 77567256 (04-26)(05-17) FORECLOSURE NOTICE RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES, P.C. MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. Mortgage Sale - Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by Robin M. Fletcher and James J. Fletcher, Jr. Wife and Husband to United States of America acting through the United States Department of Agriculture, herein called the Government, Mortgagee, dated April 15, 1996, and recorded on April 17, 1996, in Liber 657, Page 291, Barry County Records, , on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Eight Thousand Four Hundred Fifty-One and 59/100 ($78,451.59) including interest at the rate of 6.75000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the Circuit Court in said Barry County, where the premises to be sold or some part of them are situated, at 01:00 PM on May 10, 2012 Said premises are situated in the Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land in the Southwest quarter of Section 2, Town 1 North, Range 10 West, beginning at a point which lies 878 feet due East and North 33 degrees 05 minutes East 462.80 feet from Southwest corner of said Section 2, thence North 56 degrees 55 minutes West 156 feet, thence North 33 degrees 5 minutes East 227.87 feet, thence due East 186.19 feet, thence South 33 degrees 5 minutes West 330 feet to point of beginning; except the Southeasterly 33 feet for road. Commonly known as: 10944 S Norris Road If the property is eventually sold at foreclosure sale, the redemption period will be 6.00 months from the date of sale unless the property is abandoned or used for agricultural purposes. If the property is determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 and/or 600.3241a, the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of sale, or 15 days after statutory notice, whichever is later. If the property is presumed to be used for agricultural purposes prior to the date of the foreclosure sale pursuant to MCL 600.3240, the redemption period is 1 year. Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages are, if any, limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: April 12, 2012 Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for United States of America acting through the United States Department of Agriculture, herein called the Government 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302, (248) 335-9200 Case 06778605 No. 12MI00596-1 (04-12)(05-03) MORTGAGE SALE This is an attempt to collect a debt, and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by JEFFREY L. WILLIAMS and JAMIE L. SANMIGUEL, husband and wife, Mortgagors, to MERCANTILE BANK MORTGAGE COMPANY, LLC, having its principal office at 310 Leonard Street NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504, Mortgagee, dated December 4, 2007 and recorded December 21, 2007 in Instrument No. 20071221-0005432 of Mortgages. By reason of such default the undersigned elects to declare the entire unpaid amount of said mortgage due and payable forthwith. At the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on said mortgage the sum of TWO HUNDRED TWENTY THREE THOUSAND SEVEN HUNDRED SEVENTY SIX AND 88/100 ($223,776.88) dollars, including interest at the rate of 7% per annum. No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided and to pay said amount with interest as provided in said mortgage, and all legal costs, charges, and expenses, including attorney fees allowed by law, said mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the east door of the Barry County Courthouse, the place of holding the Circuit Court within the County of Barry, City of Hastings, Michigan, on May 31, 2012, at 1:00 p.m., local time. Pursuant to Public Act No. 104, Public Acts of 1971 [MCLA 600.3240(8), MSA 27A.3240(8)] the redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of the foreclosure sale, unless the property is determined to be abandoned under MCLA 600.3241a; MSA 27A.3241(1), in which case the property may be redeemed during the 30 days immediately following the sale or expiration of statutory notice period or expiration of statutory notice period. The premises covered by said mortgage are situated in the Township of Orangeville, County of Barry, State of Michigan, described as follows, to wit: Lots 132 and 133, Lynden Johncock Plat No. 1, Gun Lake, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats, Page 93, records of Barry County. MERCANTILE BANK MORTGAGE COMPANY, LLC Mortgagee SYNOPSIS PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP Regular Meeting April 11, 2012 Supervisor J. Stoneburner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Present: Supervisor J. Stoneburner, Clerk J. Owens, Treasurer K. McGuire, and Trustee R. Goebel Absent: Trustee Grundy Also present were 1 guest. Pledge of allegiance and a moment of silence for our troops. Agenda was approved with changes. Minutes were presented to the Board and approved. Correspondence: None Barry County Commissioner gave report. Public Comment: None Fire Departments report was placed on file. Authorize Chip & Karen Vickery to come off leave of absence as of April 8, 2012 Approved bid from Whitney Enterprises in the amount of $1,400.00, for fire department overhang repairs, contingent upon providing Form 1099 and insurance coverage. Police Department report was placed on file. Supervisor’s Report was received. Approved Bill & Jeannie Miller to be the Grand Marshall for the parade. Approved Dick VanNiman and Lorraine Brown to be Citizen of the Year for the parade. Treasurer’s Report was received. Clerk’s Report was received. Approve the 2011-2012 budget adjustments as presented. Approved increase expense in the amount of $39,000.00 of account 207-301-702-000 and increase revenue in the amount of $39,000.00 of account 207-000-696-302 for 2012/2013. Approve to pay Township bills for $44,876.83. Approved ORDINANCE NO. 143 Resolution Adopting An Ordinance to make various amendments to the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance and to repeal all ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith. Approved the presented wording for ballot proposals and forward it to Barry County Clerk Pam Jarvis. Discussion on a 24 x 40 bay addition for the Fire Barn. AMA agreements for the Fire Department were discussed. Appointed Clerk Jill Owens to be Market Master and Ted DeVries to be the Assistant Market Master. Approved the Farmers Market Rules & Regulations for the Prairieville Farmers Market. Public comments were received. Board comments were received. Meeting adjourned at 8:13 p.m. Submitted by: Jill Owens, Clerk Attested to by: 77567302 Jim Stoneburner, Supervisor Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Curt G. Griffis AKA Curtis G. Griffis II and Tonya A. Griffis Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to National City Mortgage a division of National City Bank of Indiana, Mortgagee, dated December 30, 2005, and recorded on January 4, 2006 in instrument 1158517, and assigned by said Mortgagee to National City Mortgage Company as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eighty-Six Thousand Two Hundred Ninety-One and 34/100 Dollars ($186,291.34). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 3, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Unit No. 16, Whispering Pines Estates Condominium according to the Master Deed Recorded in Liber 1023989, as amended, and designated as Barry County Condominium Subdivision Plan No. 12, together with rights in the general common elements and the limited common elements as shown on the Master Deed and as described in Act 59 of the Public Acts of 1978, as amended. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #348835F02 77566791 (04-05)(04-26) SCHENK BONCHER & RYPMA Gary P. Schenk P19970 601 Three Mile Road, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49544-1601 (616) 647-8277 77567310 See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits SYNOPSIS RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP REGULAR BOARD MEETING APRIL 11, 2012 -7:30 P.M. Regular meeting called to order and Pledge of Allegiance. Present: Greenfield, Bellmore, Hawthorne, Carr, Lee, Hanshaw, Flint Approved the Agenda as presented. Approved the Consent Agenda as presented. Approved a four year option with the Road Commission by roll call vote. Authorized the Clerk and Treasurer to prepare and notify township attorney to prepare legal notification for Podunk Lake Weed Public Hearing. Meeting Adjourned at 8:35p.m. Respectfully submitted, Robin Hawthorne, Clerk Attested to by, Jim Carr, Supervisor www.rutlandtownship.org 77567364 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by William Humphreys, by Beverly Louise Humphreys as Attorney in Fact and Beverly Humphreys, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 10, 2003, and recorded on August 13, 2003 in instrument 1110831, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy Thousand One Hundred TwentyFive and 57/100 Dollars ($70,125.57). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 17, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 4 and 5 of Block 1 of Chamberlains Addition to the City, formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats on Page 7. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #398819F01 (04-19)(05-10) 77567192 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Allen Micah Blickley, a married man and Sharon Blickley, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 28, 2008, and recorded on February 19, 2008 in instrument 20080219-0001472, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Eight Thousand Three Hundred Eight and 33/100 Dollars ($138,308.33). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 17, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the Village of Middleville, County of Barry, State of Michigan and described as follows: Lot 7, Block 58 of Village of Middleville according to the Plat thereof recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 27 of Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #398991F01 06778616 (04-19)(05-10) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, April 26, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN 5TH CIRCUIT COURT-FAMILY DIVISION COUNTY OF BARRY PUBLICATION OF HEARING CASE NO. 12-8432-NA PETITION NO. 12008292 IN THE MATTER OF: KATHLEEN IRENE OLIVIA LOWERY (DOB: 10/01/2010) A Neglect Petition has been filed in the above matter regarding: KATHLEEN OLIVIA LOWERY. DOB. 10-1-10. A TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS HEARING is scheduled for TUESDAY, MAY 15, 2012 AT 11:00 A.M. And will be held at Barry County Trial Court Family Division, 206 W. Court St. Ste. 302, Hastings, MI 49058. IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED THAT LEONARD PAUL LOWERY II personally appear before the Court at the time and place stated above. Failure to attend the hearing will constitute a denial of interest in the minor, a waiver of notice for all subsequent hearings, a waiver of right to appointment of an attorney, which could result in TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS. 77567315 Dated: April 26, May 3, 10, 2012 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Matthew W Spencer and Anne K Spencer, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Polaris Home Funding Corp., its successors or assigns, Mortgagee, dated March 1, 2008 and recorded March 13, 2008 in Instrument Number 20080313-002327, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Thousand Four Hundred Sixty and 7/100 Dollars ($200,460.07) including interest at 5.75% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on MAY 17, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the Township of Rutland, County of Barry, State of Michigan: Beginning at a point on the East-West 1/4 line of Section 17, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, distant West 1322.82 feet from the East 1/4 post of said Section 17; thence South 01 degrees 16 minutes 10 seconds East 536.51 feet along the East line of the West 1/2 of the Southeast 1/4 of said Section 17; thence West, 164.27 feet parallel with said 1/4 line; thence North 66 degrees 33 minutes 37 seconds West, 33.82 feet; thence North 36 degrees 04 minutes 29 seconds East, 60.64 feet; thence North 07 degrees 57 minutes 58 seconds West, 103.67 feet; thence North 35 degrees 58 minutes 26 seconds West 138.54 feet; thence North 42 degrees 35 minutes 35 seconds East 33.66 feet; thence North 14 degrees 51 minutes 00 seconds East 242.44 feet thence East, 158.52 feet along said East-West 1/4 line to the place of beginning. Together with and subject to an easement for private roadway and public utility purposes to be used jointly with others over a strip of land 66 feet wide, 33 feet each side of the centerline described as: Beginning at a point on the East and West 1/4 line of Section 17, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, distant West 1906.85 feet from the East 1/4 post of said Section 17; thence South 00 degrees 20 minutes 48 seconds West, 112.79 feet; thence South 84 degrees 20 minutes 58 seconds East, 126.10 feet; thence South 58 degrees 49 minutes 45 seconds East, 259.10 feet; thence South 35 degrees 58 minutes 26 seconds East, 138.54 feet; thence South 07 degrees 57 minutes 28 seconds East,103.67 feet; thence South 36 degrees 04 minutes 29 seconds West, 60.64 feet to the end of said described easement. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: April 19, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 682.2477 77567211 (04-19)(05-10) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Jill L. Plowman, an unmarried woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Amerifirst Financial Corporation its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated October 12, 2010, and recorded on October 26, 2010 in instrument 201010260009979, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Eight Thousand Two Hundred and 13/100 Dollars ($138,200.13). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 17, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Assyria, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The South 1/2 of the West 1/2 of the Southwest fractional 1/4 of the Southwest fractional 1/4 of Section 18, Town 1 North, Range 7 West except all that certain piece of parcel of land commencing at the Southwest corner of Section 18, Town 1 North, Range 7 West; thence North 220.83 feet; thence East 579.50 feet; thence South 224.17 feet; thence West 578.50 feet to the Place of Beginning. Also the North 1/2 of the West 1/2 of the Southwest fractional 1/4 of the Southwest fractional 1/4 of Section 18, Town 1 North, Range 7 West. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #392735F01 77567182 (04-19)(05-10) Case No. 11-466-CH Notice of Judicial Foreclosure Sale on a Default Judgment and Judgment of Foreclosure Against Defendants Teresa J. Lindsey, f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker and Shana Ciampa NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to the terms of a Default Judgment and Judgment of Foreclosure of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan signed and filed on January 17, 2012, in the case of Eaton Federal Savings Bank, Plaintiff v Teresa J. Lindsey, f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker and Shana Ciampa, Defendants, Case No. 11-466-CH, wherein, among other things, the Court allowed the foreclosure of a mortgage granted by Teresa J. Lindsey f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker (Mortgagor) to Eaton Federal Savings Bank on September 27, 2007 and recorded October 4, 2007 at Instrument No. 200710040002745, pages 1 through 10, Barry County Records, against the Mortgagor. Pursuant to the Default Judgment and Judgment for Foreclosure, the mortgaged premises shall be sold at a public auction by or under the direction of Clerk or Sheriff for the County of Barry to the highest bidder at the main entrance to the Barry County Courthouse, 220 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 on Thursday, May 17, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., local time. The following described “Mortgaged Premises”: Parcel 1: Lot 13 of Standley’s First Addition to Fine Lake Park, Johnstown Township, Barry County, Michigan, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, on Page 31, Also, beginning at the Southeast corner of Lot 13 of Standley’s First Addition to Fine Lake Park, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, on Page 31; thence North 26 degrees East along the Easterly line of Lots 13 and 14 of said Plat, 100.00 feet, thence South 82 degrees 54 minutes East 50.00 feet; thence South 26 degrees West, 100.00 feet; thence North 82 degrees 54 minutes West 50.00 feet to the point of beginning. Parcel 2: Beginning at the Southwest corner of Lot 8 of Fine Lake Park, Johnstown Township, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof; thence Northeasterly along the East Shore of Fine Lake to a point 10 feet from said place of beginning; thence Easterly to a point on the Easterly line of said Lot which is 3 feet North of the Southeast corner of said Lot; thence Southerly along the East line of said Lot to the Southeast corner thereof; thence Westerly along the South line of said Lot to the place of beginning. The Mortgaged Premises, whose address is 823 East Shore Drive, Battle Creek, Michigan, 49017, also include all right, title and interests held by Teresa J. Lindsey f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker as of September 27, 2007, in the Mortgaged Premises. The Premises may be redeemed during the six (6) months following the date of sale. BODMAN PLC By: Sandra L. Jasinski (P37430) Attorneys for Eaton Federal Savings Bank 229 Court Street, P.O. Box 405 Cheboygan, Michigan 49721 (231) 627-8000 Date: March 29, 2012 Dates of publication: March 29, April 5, 12, 19, 26, 77566696 May 3, and 10, 2012. Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Mitchell L. Phelps, a married man and Theresa Phelps, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Lake Michigan Credit Union, Mortgagee, dated July 24, 2007, and recorded on July 31, 2007 in instrument 200707310000343, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Four Thousand One Hundred Seventeen and 74/100 Dollars ($94,117.74). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 24, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A Parcel of land on the Northeast 1/4 of Section 14, Town 4 North, Range 8 West, commencing at the Northeast corner of the Northwest 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4; Section 14; thence South 666 feet for the place of beginning, thence West 175 feet; thence South 200 feet; thence East 175 feet; thence North 200 feet, to the place of beginning. And Commencing at the North 1/4 corner of Section 14, Town 4 North, Range 8 West, Carlton Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East, 1056.00 feet along the North line of said Section;thence South 666 feet for the place of beginning thence South 00 degrees 46 minutes 27 seconds East, 89.00 feet; thence South 00 degrees 46 minutes 27 seconds West, 200.00 feet; thence South 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West, 89 feet; thence North 00 degrees 46 minutes 27 seconds East, 200 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #398935F01 77567262 (04-26)(05-17) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Tracie Farrah and Jamie Farrah, Wife and Husband, to Bayrock Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated August 31, 2005 and recorded September 8, 2005 in Instrument Number 1152444, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, successor in interest to Bank of America, National Association as successor by merger to LaSalle Bank National Association, as Trustee for Certificateholders of Bear Stearns Asset Backed Securities I LLC, Asset Backed-Certificates, Series 2005-HE12 by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Thousand Two Hundred Sixty-One and 72/100 Dollars ($200,261.72) including interest at 8.425% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on MAY 3, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The East 1385 feet of the North one-half of the South one-half of the Northwest one-quarter of Section 29, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, Hope Township, Barry County, Michigan, except the North 440 feet thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: April 5, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 199.3674 775669190 (04-05)(04-26) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Shane A. Rugg, an unmarried man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for AmeriFirst Financial Corporation, its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated January 29, 2010, and recorded on February 4, 2010 in instrument 201002040001028, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ninety-Three Thousand Fifty-Eight and 03/100 Dollars ($193,058.03). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 10, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Assyria, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The Northwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 and the West 1/2 of the East 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 12, Town 1 North, Range 7 West. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #374743F03 77567059 (04-12)(05-03) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by James Gibson and Laura Gibson, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Metro Finance its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated October 17, 2007, and recorded on November 13, 2007 in instrument 200711130004091, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fifty-Five Thousand Three Hundred Forty-Seven and 79/100 Dollars ($155,347.79). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 17, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel 2: Commencing at the Southeast corner of Section 28, Town 4 North, Range 9 West; thence North 00 degrees 14 minutes 27 seconds West, 1120.13 feet along the East line of said Section 28; thence South 89 degrees 35 minutes 08 Seconds West, 253 feet to the point of beginning; thence North 00 degrees 14 minutes 27 seconds West 370.46 feet; thence South 89 degrees 39 minutes 30 seconds West 178.85 feet; thence South 00 degrees 14 minutes 27 seconds East 184.00 feet; thence South 89 degrees 35 minutes 08 Seconds West 41.15 feet; thence South 00 degrees 14 minutes 27 seconds East 186.69 feet; thence North 89 degrees 35 minutes 08 seconds East 220.00 feet to the point of beginning. Together with and subject to an easement for ingress, egress and public utilities described as follows: Beginning at a point on the East line of Section 28, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, distant North 00 degrees 14 minutes 27 seconds West, 1120.13 feet from the Southeast corner of said Section 28; thence South 89 degrees 35 minutes 08 seconds West 781.68 feet; thence Northwesterly, Easterly and Southeasterly 219.33 feet along the arc of a curve to the right, the radius of which is 50.00 feet and the chord of which bears North 35 degrees 15 minutes 15 seconds East 81.24 feet; thence North 89 degrees 35 minutes 08 Seconds East 734.51 feet; thence South 00 degrees 14 minutes 27 seconds East 66.00 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #366171F01 77567160 (04-19)(05-10) NOTICE OF JUDICIAL FORECLOSURE SALE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE IF YOU ARE A BORROWER ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTENTION PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the circuit court at the request of the plaintiff. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest, as determined by the court. (Barry) County Circuit Court Case No. 10193-CH NOTICE OF JUDICIAL SALE JUDICIAL SALE IN PURSUANCE and by virtue of a Stipulated Order Validating Mortgage and for Judgment of Foreclosure in the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on the 1st day of October, 2010, in a certain cause therein pending, wherein Stephanie Stolsonburg was the Plaintiff/Counter-Defendant and Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Soundview Home Loan Trust 2006-1 Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2006-1 was the Defendant/Counter-Plaintiff. The aforementioned judgment established a debt owing to plaintiff in the amount of $143,133.77 plus post-judgment interest at an annual rate of 8% and other amounts recoverable pursuant to said judgment. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that in order to satisfy said judgment, in whole or in part, the property described below shall be sold at public auction, by an authorized sheriff or deputy sheriff, to the highest bidder, at the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, located at 220 W. State Street, Hastings, MI 49058, (that being the building in which the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held) on the 31st of May 2012 at 1 pm, local time. On said day at said time, the following described property shall be sold: City/Twp. of Yankee Springs, County of Barry, State of Michigan, Lot 24, the Westerly 1/2 of Lot 25 and the South 10 feet of Lot 31, adjacent to said Lot 24 of Streeter's Resort, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats on Page 37, also the South 10 feet of Lot 31, adjacent to the Westerly 1/2 of Lot 25 of said Streeter's Resort. Also an undivided 1/4 interest in Lot 29 of Streeter's Resort, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats on Page 37. Tax Parcel ID: 16-215-020-00 Commonly known as 11486 Lighthouse Ct., Middleville, MI 49333-8451 REDEMPTION PERIOD IS SIX MONTHS. Mark Sheldon, Barry County Deputy Sheriff For more information please call 248-642-2515. Trott & Trott, P.C. By: Rana Razzaque (P67627) Attorneys for Plaintiff 31440 Northwestern Hwy., Ste. 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 T&T# 250978L02 (0406778491 12)(05-24) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Joseph Steffler and Brooke Steffler, husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated September 8, 2006 and recorded October 26, 2006 in Instrument Number 1171927, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by PNC Bank, N.A. by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Three Thousand Four Hundred Two and 40/100 Dollars ($133,402.40) including interest at 6.75% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on MAY 17, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Maple Grove, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 27, Town 2 North, Range 7 West, described as: Commencing at the North 1/4 corner of said Section; thence South 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East 273.14 feet along the North line of said Northeast 1/4 to the place of beginning; thence South 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East 548.0 feet along said North line; thence South 00 degrees 29 minutes 53 seconds East 400.00 feet along the East line of the West 50 acres of said Northeast 1/4; thence North 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West 548.0 feet; thence North 00 degrees 29 minutes 53 seconds West 400.0 feet to the place of beginning. Also described for tax purposes as: Commencing North 1/4 post Section 27, thence East 273.41 feet to point of beginning; thence East 548 feet, thence South 0 degrees 29 minutes 53 seconds East 400 feet, thence West 526 feet, thence North 29 degrees 53 minutes West 400 feet to point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: April 19, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 2485022633 File No. 401.0707 77567187 (04-19)(05-10) �Page 12 — Thursday, April 26, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Dale Cheeseman and Audra Cheeseman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registrations Systems, Inc., as nominee for Novastar Mortgage, Inc. its successors and assigns., Mortgagee, dated May 12, 2006, and recorded on June 7, 2006 in instrument 1165690, and assigned by said Mortgagee to U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for J.P. Morgan Mortgage Acquisition Trust 2006-HE3, Asset Backed Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2006-HE3 as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Four Thousand Five Hundred SeventyNine and 09/100 Dollars ($104,579.09). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 17, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 1256 of the City, formerly Village of Hastings, according to the Recorded plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #375543F01 06778622 (04-19)(05-10) SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by GLEN L. GUERNSEY AKA GLEN L. GUERNSEY JR. and LISA GUERNSEY, HUSBAND AND WIFE, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns,, Mortgagee, dated October 31, 2003, and recorded on May 13, 2004, in Document No. 1127564, and assigned by said mortgagee to GMAC MORTGAGE, LLC SBM TO GMAC MORTGAGE CORPORATION, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty Thousand Eight Hundred Thirty-One Dollars and Twenty-Five Cents ($160,831.25), including interest at 5.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on May 3, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: THE WEST 328.3 FEET OF THE WEST 1 / 2 OF THE NORTH 60 ACRES OF THE NORTHEAST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 23, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 7 WEST. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. GMAC MORTGAGE, LLC SBM TO GMAC MORTGAGE CORPORATION Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 77567035 GMAC.007473 (04-05)(04-26) NOTICE TO BORROWER PURSUANT TO MCL 600.3205a(4) THIS FIRM MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. NOTICE is hereby provided to the Borrower(s) regarding the property located at 246 Cherry Street, Freeport, MI 49325. State law requires that you receive the following notice: You have the right to request a meeting with the mortgage holder or mortgage servicer. Pursuant to MCL 600.3205a(1)(c), BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP has designated the Loan Modification Department of Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 at (248) 883-0157 as its agent to serve as the contact under MCL sections 600.3205a-3205c and has the authority to make agreements for a loan modification pursuant to MCL sections 600.3205b and 600.3205c. You may contact a housing counselor by visiting the Michigan State Housing Development Authority's website at http://www.michigan.gov/mshda or by calling 1-800A-SHELTER, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, year-round. If you request a meeting with the designated agent, foreclosure proceedings will not start until 90 days after the notice required by MCL 600.3205a was mailed to your last known address, subject to the provisions of MCL 600.3205b. If an agreement to modify the mortgage is reached and you abide by the terms of the agreement, the mortgage will not be foreclosed. You have the right to contact an attorney. If you do not have an attorney, the telephone number for the Michigan State Bar Lawyer Referral Service is (800) 968-0738. Notice given by: Randall S. Miller Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 248-883-0157 (Loan Modification Dept.) loanmods@rsmalaw.com Case No. 10MI01978-2 Dated: April 26, 2012 (04-26) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Dennis Ayers, a married man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 9, 2004, and recorded on July 20, 2004 in instrument 1131097, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Wells Fargo Bank, NA as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fifty-Three Thousand Three Hundred Seventy-Six and 90/100 Dollars ($153,376.90). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 24, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That part of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 17, Town 3 North, Range 10 West, Yankee Springs Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as : Commencing at the West 1/4 corner of said Section; thence North 89 degrees 40 minutes 09 seconds East 300.0 feet along the South line of said Northwest 1/4 to the place of beginning; thence North 89 degrees 40 minutes 09 seconds East 200.0 feet along said South line; thence North 00 degrees 44 minutes West 627.11 feet parallel with the West line of said Northwest 1/4; thence South 88 degrees 02 minutes 54 seconds West 200.04 feet; thencee South 00 degrees 44 minutes East 621.45 feet to the place of beginning The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #399501F01 77567268 (04-26)(05-17) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Ryan G. Markley and Nicole L. Markley, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, Mortgagee, dated October 28, 2008, and recorded on October 30, 2008 in instrument 20081030-0010608, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixteen Thousand Seven Hundred ThirtySix and 91/100 Dollars ($116,736.91). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 3, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 11, Block 49, Village of Middleville, according to the recorded plat thereof in Liber 1 of Plats, on Plage 27. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #393068F01 775666897 (04-05)(04-26) SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by LONNIE L. WRATE and EVELYN D. WRATE, HUSBAND AND WIFE, to MAINSTREET SAVINGS BANK, FSB, Mortgagee, dated November 2, 2009, and recorded on November 4, 2009, in Document No. 200911040010803, and assigned by said mortgagee to MICHIGAN STATE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Four Thousand Four Hundred Sixty-One Dollars and Fifty-Six Cents ($84,461.56), including interest at 6.625% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on May 10, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: BEGINNING AT THE NORTH 1 / 4 POST OF SECTION 2, TOWN 3 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, RUTLAND TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN; THENCE EAST 402.47 FEET ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SAID SECTION 2; THENCE SOUTH 00 DEGREES 14 MINUTES 01 SECONDS EAST 290.00 FEET; THENCE WEST 401.94 FEET; THENCE NORTH 00 DEGREES 20 MINUTES 20 SECONDS WEST 290.00 FEET ALONG THE NORTH AND SOUTH 1 / 4 LINE OF SAID SECTION 2 TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. MICHIGAN STATE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 USBW.001427 (0406778600 12)(05-03) 77567216 Public Auction HOUSE FOR SALE Thursday May 10, 2012 Property is located at 10944 S Norris Road, Delton, MI The sale will be held at 1:00 pm. Minimum bid is $27,300 S.E.V is $63,700 Property Sells “AS IS” This home is a one story with 2 bedrooms and 1 bath and a 2 car attached garage This foreclosure sale is subject to six month redemption rights. Terms - Certified funds delivered to the Sheriff at the sale For more details contact Rural Development at (888) 771-6993 Rural Development is An Equal Opportunity Lender NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF A MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on January 10, 2007, by Kent R. Laubaugh, a single man, as Mortgagor, given by him to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on January 18, 2007, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 1175215, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank by assignment dated November 9, 2010, recorded on November 18, 2010, in Instrument Number 201011180010850, Barry County Records, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of Twenty-Five Thousand Seven Hundred Eighty-Four and 96/100 Dollars ($25,784.96); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, May 17, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF RUTLAND, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: The NW quarter of the NE quarter of the SW quarter of Section 16, T3N, R9W, Rutland Township, Barry County, Michigan. Commonly known as: 567 S. Irving Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058 Tax parcel number: 0813-016-014-10. The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: April 4, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 77567083 48933 (517) 371-8253 (04-12)(05-03) NOTICE TO THE RESIDENTS OF BARRY COUNTY Notice is hereby given that the Barry County Zoning Board of Appeals will conduct a public hearing for the following: Case Number V-2-2012 Doug Bassett Location: 11032 East Shore Drive in Section 7 of Barry Twp Purpose: Requesting two variances 1) Requesting a variance to erect an addition 6 x 10 ft onto an existing house that is too close to the front lot line 11 ft (the minimum is 30 ft); and too close to the corner lot line 0.7 ft (the minimum is 30 ft) per Section 403 (1.) and Section 1505 (5.)(c.); 2) Requesting a variance in lot coverage that is 38% which exceeds the allowed lot coverage of 30% per Section 1005 (7.) in the RL zoning district. Case Number V-3-2012 Bennie & Tory Butgereit Location: 5030 Coats Grove Rd in Section 6 of Castleton Twp Purpose: Requesting a variance to erect an attached garage 24 x 32 ft and a 10 x 14 ft attached mud room that is too close to the rear lot line three (3) feet, the minimum is 20 ft per Section 1505 (5.)(d.) in the MU zoning district. MEETING DATE: May 14, 2012 TIME: 7:00 PM PLACE: Community Room, Courts & Law Building at 206 West Court Street, Hastings, MI. Site inspection of the above described property will be completed by the Zoning Board of Appeals members before the hearing. Interested persons desiring to present their views upon an appeal either verbally or in writing will be given the opportunity to be heard at the above mentioned time and place. Any written response may be mailed to the address listed below, faxed to (269) 948-4820 or email to: jmcmanus@barrycounty.org. The variance applications are available for public inspection at the Barry County Planning Office, 220 West State Street, Hastings MI 49058 during the hours of 8am to 5pm (closed between 12pm to 1pm) Monday - Friday. Please call the Planning Office at (269) 945-1290 for further information. The County of Barry will provide necessary auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/hearing upon ten (10) days notice to the County of Barry. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the County of Barry by writing or calling the following: Michael Brown, County Administrator, 220 West State Street, Hastings MI 49058, (269) 945-1284. 77567370 Pamela A. Jarvis, Barry County Clerk CITY OF HASTINGS REQUEST FOR BIDS The City of Hastings, Michigan is soliciting bids for the provision of one (1) new 4WD Compact Diesel Utility Tractor with broom, v-plow, and brush hog attachments. Specifications are available from the Office of the Hastings City Clerk. The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in the bid proposals, and to award the bid as deemed to be in the City’s best interest, price and other factors considered. Bids must be clearly marked on the outside of the submittal package – “BID: 4WD Compact Utility Tractor”. Bids will be received at the Office of the City Clerk/Treasurer, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 until 9:00 AM, on Tuesday, May 15, 2012 at which time they shall be opened and publicly read aloud. Tim Girrbach Director of Public Services 77567366 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Heather R. Tuffs and Jim Tuffs, wife and husband, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated June 14, 2005, and recorded on June 29, 2005 in instrument 1148767, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Four Thousand Six Hundred Fifty-Two and 62/100 Dollars ($104,652.62). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 24, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The East 1/2 of Lots 2 and 3 and all of Lot 7 of Block 25 of I.N. Keeler's Addition to the Village of Middleville, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 12, Barry County Records The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #395582F01 77567352 (04-26)(05-17) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Bruce A Irwin and Sandra L Irwin, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated May 4, 2007, and recorded on May 8, 2007 in instrument 1180284, and assigned by said Mortgagee to PHH Mortgage Corporation as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Five Thousand One Hundred Thirty-Seven and 24/100 Dollars ($75,137.24). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 10, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: PARCEL L-3: Commencing at the southeast corner of Section 33, town 2 North, Range 9 West; Running thence North 89 degrees 47 minutes 45 seconds West 1410.00 feet along the South line of Section 33; thence North 00 degrees 00 minutes 05 seconds East 664.00 feet parallel with the East line of the Southeast 1/4 of said Section 33, and along the West line of a 66 foot private Easement for ingress and egress and utilities in common with others for the True Place of beginning of this description; thence continuing North 00 degrees 00 minutes 05 seconds East 332.00 feet; thence South 89 degrees 32 minutes 04 seconds East 320.01 feet; thence South 00 Degrees 00 minutes 05 seconds West 331.51 feet; thence North 89 degrees 37 minutes 20 seconds West 320.01 feet to the Place of beginning. Together with rights in said easement and subject to extension thereof over the west 66 feet of the above described parcel. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #396800F01 77567065 (04-12)(05-03) NOTICE The minutes of the meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners held April 24, 2012, are available in the County Clerk’s Office at 220 W. State St., Hastings, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or www.barrycounty.org. 77567253 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, April 26, 2012 — Page 13 MEETING, continued from page 1 ter, continue to use a temporary worker in a vacant animal control officer position until the commission can discuss the subject at greater length during its May 15 committee of the whole meeting. “I’ve been put on the spot here,” said Leaf when asked by Commissioner Howard Gibson to provide his perspective. “We have an opening, and it does deserve some discussion, but we’re managing it quite well and the state is aware of what we’re doing out there. “I just wish it would have been on the agenda; we could have come better prepared than this,” said Leaf. “I’ve been put on the spot here. We have an opening, and it does deserve some discussion, but we’re managing it quite well and the state is aware of what we’re doing out there.” Sheriff Dar Leaf The deeper issue, according to both Leaf and Houtman — who each spoke about it in telephone interviews following the meeting — is ultimate control of the Animal Control office. “He [Leaf] was told no less than two, maybe three times, that I was going to bring up Animal Control,” said Houtman. “It wasn’t on the agenda because, as a commissioner, I could only announce that I would like to put the issue on the May 15 committee of the whole agenda. “The vote [that followed] was simply to advise the sheriff not to fill that position with a full-time person until we had a chance to discuss it fully,” Houtman added. Leaf’s contention is that, as director of the Animal Control department, it is his option to make hiring decisions and that the commission, in pressing for discussion May 15, will again push an effort to create a director’s position and have that person report directly to the commission. “The fact is, we were looking at options,” said Leaf of the current open position, “but it’s still a union-contracted position, and we just got done settling all new labor contracts. What sense is there in hiring a director when you only have two people in there [the Animal Control office] anyway? “I was just a little shocked that it was not on the agenda and they voted on a resolution — it’s a little out of character,” Leaf said. Houtman maintained that he needed a voted directive from the commission to ensure that Leaf would not fill the open position until May 15. Though the commission does meet again as a committee of the whole May 1, Houtman pointed out that it has been reserved for discussion the Agriculture Preservation and Open Space ordinance and would leave little room for two “contentious” issues to be considered. Houtman conceded that control of the Animal Shelter has been a factor for two years when the commission first wanted to hire its own director but budget pressures nixed the idea. “Under the Michigan dog law,” said Houtman, “we have the responsibility to decide how it [an Animal Control department] is going to be managed.” Commissioners were not as unified in their endorsement of resolutions to oppose two state actions being pushed by Gov. Rick Snyder: the repeal of the personal property tax on businesses and the requirement that counties participate in the Economic Vitality Incentive Program in order to receive and to restore cuts being made to revenue sharing. “The governor has proposed a plan to replace those taxes,” maintained Geiger in his vote to oppose the personal property tax resolution and the mandate that the state find a replacement for the lost revenue, especially in Barry County where 4.2 percent of total tax- “I don’t mind the idea that we participate in the incentive programs because it is the only way you’re going to get those that are not doing it to do it. But I don’t like the other part that they’re taking away revenues from a good performing county.” Commissioner Dan Parker able value comes from the personal property tax. “What is his plan?” queried Commissioner Joe Lyons. “Expiring taxes,” replied Geiger. “The Granholm administration and the administration before it gave a lot of tax incentives to corporations. Now those are set to expire.” Parker asked if they’d be replaced in the same amount, to which Geiger replied, “Yes, up to 98 percent.” The resolution passed on a 6-1 vote, with Geiger dissenting and Commissioner Don Nevins absent. The companion resolution to oppose the governor’s proposal to cut Barry County revenue sharing by $286,356 and require the county to participate in the Economic Vitality Incentive Program in order to receive revenue sharing also passed by a 6-1 vote, with Geiger dissenting. “I don’t mind the idea that we participate in the incentive programs because it is the only way you’re going to get those that are not doing it to do it,” said Parker. “But I don’t like the other part that they’re taking away revenues from a good performing county.” Stolsonburg added his agreement, “We’ve already been performing at best practices, but we’re still being penalized.” In other business, the county approved: • A May 22 public hearing at 9 a.m. on proposed amendments to the Barry County Address Ordinance, allowing the changing of existing road names, changing address number and providing enforcement. • Dog adopters who prepay for the sterilization of their dog to pay the spayed/neutered license fee instead of the regular, intact license fee. • A three-year interfund loan from the vehicle replacement fund for Charlton Park’s purchase of a new John Deere utility vehicle. • A Farmland and Open Space Preservation (PA 116) request for Doug and Louisa Westendorp of Maple Grove Township. • The 2012 county equalization values report. • Funding for the Algonquin Lake Dam Maintenance and Repair Project in the amount of $423,968, a 10-year assessment plan for lake district residents, and the issuance of tax-exempt notes for immediate funding of the project to be backed by the full faith and credit of the county. • A second 457 pension plan for county employees to be offered by the Municipal Employees Retirement System. The current pension plan is offered by Comprehensive Financial Services of East Lansing. The new plan will involve contributions from employees only and does not obligate county funds. • A hybrid pension plan for new hires. New employees will receive a defined-benefit component with a 1.5 percent multiplier and a defined-contribution component in which employees may make additional contributions similar to a 401(k) program in the private sector. • Ratification of a tentative labor agreement reached with the county courthouse employees for Jan. 1 of this year to Dec. 31, 2014 • Annual report updates from Tammy Pennington, executive director of the Commission on Aging, and Dan Patton, director of Historic Charlton Park. BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY by Gerald Stein 30 people attend first local meeting on fracking More than 30 concerned citizens from Barry County attended a meeting at Circle Pines Center in Orangeville Township April 23 to hear information about the upcoming gas and oil lease auction of state land in Barry County and about the process of fracking, which would be done to extract the natural resource. Natural gas is tightly held deep underground in layers of shale rock. Maryann Lesert from Ban Michigan Fracking outlined the process of fracking, which includes drilling vertically for about a mile, then drilling horizontally for one to two miles, in one or more directions. Then billions of gallons of water, chemicals and other substances are moved down the pipe with high pressure, which come out the perforated casing of the horizontal drill to fracture or shock the shale to remove methane gas. Lesert also reported that other states have started to ban the practice of “fracking,” with the Ohio governor recently putting an emergency ban into place because of health and environmental issues. Lesert said leasing rights for all of the state game areas in Barry County will go up for auction May 8. Kat Vanhammen of Delton told about a testimony on YouTube from a young Ohio woman who became seriously ill after fracking was done near her home. Middleville resident Bonnie Slayton and others reported that many area land owners have been approached by “landmen” who are speculating on selling mineral right leases to oil companies after a May 8 auction. One citizen from Yankee Springs Township who has been approached several times, had the contract reviewed by lawyers, and said, “the landowner will not be the winner with these contracts, only the oil companies.” These contracts are very complex, giving many loopholes to the promises made by the landmen. In some cases, drilling will be done on a property that has been leased out, then horizontal hydraulic fracturing drilling will be done on adjacent land, leaving the initial property with nothing but the mess and contaminated wells. The next public action meeting at Circle Pines, 8650 Mullen Road, Delton, is Monday, April 30, from 7 to 9 p.m. Other public informational meetings regarding Barry County oil and gas leasing are: • Tuesday, May 1, from 6 to 8:30 p.m., oil and gas leasing meeting at Pierce Cedar Creek Institute, 701 W. Cloverdale Road, Hastings. • Wednesday, May 2, at 7 p.m., Fracking in Middleville’s Backyard, hosted by Local Future, Thornapple Township Hall, 200 E. Main St., Middleville. • Saturday, May 5, at 7 p.m., a free screening of film “Gasland” hosted by Local Future, Thornapple Township Hall. NORTH N: 6 5 2 M: K 8 5 3 L: Q K: A J 5 4 3 WEST N: A Q J 8 7 M: 4 L: K 10 9 K: Q 7 6 2 N: K 9 M: Q 10 9 7 L: J 7 4 3 2 K: 10 8 SOUTH: N: 10 4 3 M: A J 6 2 L: A 8 6 5 K: K 9 Lead: Two of clubs with North-South Vulnerable Captain M. North peered through the fog and the rain from the captain’s wheel on the USS: Barry County Bridge Barge. “Oh, brother,” he muttered half to himself. “Red sky at morning: Sailors take warning.” The wind and the rain had begun shortly after leaving port on Lake Thornapple for the weekly river cruise and bridge tournament. White caps and waves pushed against the bow. The bridge players were oblivious to it all. They were deep in concentration on their bidding and their cards. Captain North groaned again, “It will be a crossing rough today with this kind of weather.” One of the bridge players looked up from Table One, closest to the Captain. “Captain North, did you just mention a cross-ruffing opportunity? I have just the hand to show you!” With excitement in her voice, Bertha O’Toole, a perky and infectious happy camper, looked at the Captain who was rolling his eyes at her enthusiasm. Captain North called her “Rosy” because of her optimistic point of view on bridge and on life. “Haven’t you noticed the awful weather we are encountering today?” The Captain exclaimed. Rosy only smiled and replied, “April Showers bring May flowers!” The Captain groaned again. “Rosy, show me the hand, please!” The bidding went as follows at Table One: Dealer: East West North(Vera) 1N Pass Concerned citizens attended a April 23 meeting at Circle Pines Center to hear information about the upcoming gas and oil lease auction (from left) Sue Reyff, Deanna Garrett, Steve Garrett, Renee Kermeen and Mary Kay O'Neil. See us for color copies, one-hour photo processing and all your printing needs. PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy., Hastings. At the gray barn EAST Dbl 4M East Pass South(Rosy) 1L Pass 2M All Pass Rosy began her explanation. “While 3 hearts is a safe contract, four hearts is even more challenging. Would you like to see how it went?” Not stopping for an answer, Rosy continued. “With a look at the dummy hand that North, my favorite partner, Vera, placed down, I knew that I had to work especially hard to make this contract. After all, Vera was the one who pushed us on to game, and I couldn’t let my partner down.” Here Vera piped in, “Of course not, Rosy.” (Even the other bridge players had begun to call Bertha by the Captain’s choice of nicknames.) “You know, Captain North, ‘A bid in the hand is worth two in the bush!’” Here the entire table burst into laughter, and the Captain looked at them and shook his head. “Go on with the hand, ladies.” Recovering from their funny joke, Rosy continued, “My plan was to avoid drawing trumps, and you will appreciate this, Captain North, I planned to use a cross-ruffing technique to pick up the tenth trick!” She smiled with her plan, and she continued. “With the 2K as the opening lead, I took the KK in my hand for trick one. I led the Ace of diamonds from my hand and played the Queen from the dummy making a nice void there. Two for us!” Rosy was enjoying this immensely. “I next led the 5L from my hand and used partner’s 3M for a ruff. Trick Number three! Yippee!” They all chortled again at the table. Poor Captain North. Regaining her composure, Rosy continued, “For trick four, I had to live dangerously. I led the Ace of clubs from the dummy and played my nine. It went through for trick four.” “For trick five, I led the 4C, expecting a ruff, and East used his 7M. I overtrumped with my JM. Back in my hand again, I led my 6L and trumped it on the board with dummy’s 5M for trick six. Then I led the 5K from the board, and when East did not trump this time, I used the 2M for trick seven. I then led the 8L from my hand and trumped with the 8M on the board for trick eight.” “Two to go, Captain!” said Rosy with a big smile. “Next, I led the JK from the board, and this time when East trumped with 9M, I threw away the 3N, getting rid of one of my three spade losers. East-West had one trick while we had eight already. East led the 9N, and her partner took the AN for their second trick. She also cashed the QN for their third trick.” “Here we are at the last two tricks, Captain North. Are you excited?” The Captain only nodded again. “When West led the JN from her hand, her partner trumped with the 10M, but I overtrumped with the AM in my hand for our ninth trick, and from my hand I led my last heart to the KM on the board making four hearts vulnerable. All ten tricks accounted for.” Captain North surveyed the table, “Well done, Rosy! For today a rough crossing or a crossruffing works out just fine, doesn’t it?” Here Vera spoke up again, “Well, Captain, you know ‘Bids of a feather flock together!’” The entire table erupted into huge peals of laughter once again. Captain North walked away, shaking his head. “Bridge players! You got to love them!” The captain smiled as the sun poked through the clouds. ***** Bridge Question on this hand: How does the East-West team defeat the four-heart contract of Rosy and Vera? (Answer to last week’s question: “To the victor belong the spoils” is the famous quote by New York Senator William Learned Macy recited in the US Senate on January 25, 1832.) ***** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) �Page 14 — Thursday, April 26, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Maple syrup festival will feature music, fireworks, parades and more Rick Moore stops to overlook the Thornapple River last fall during a bicycle ride from Irving to Middleville and back, along the Paul Henry-Thornapple Trail. The trail will be the main focus of this weekend’s woodpecker festival in Middleville. Thornapple trail extension discussed by Hastings twp. The topic of recreational trails and linear parks was discussed at the April 10 meeting of the Hastings Charter Township Board of Trustees in front of a large audience. Debbie Jensen, a Barry County Parks and Recreation Board member and worker on the trails subcommittee, presented the board’s goal of extending the non-motorized Paul HenryThornapple Trail east of Hastings toward the new county park at McKeown Bridge. John Hart, community development director for the City of Hastings, presented the progress to date on the portion of the trail within city limits. Middleville has completed another portion of the linear park from its downtown to McCann Road. Sections of the old railroad grade are owned by the City of Hastings, Village of Middleville and Barry County, and some belongs to private landowners. The completed sections are all part of a regional recreational and alternative transportation trail envisioned to run from Grand Rapids to Eaton Rapids. “This meeting is intended to elicit public opinion about the trail as well as to build support for what many of us believe will be a recreational, educational, economic and healthy benefit to the residents of Barry County,” said Mike Rawson, a member of the parks and recreation board. Although many audience members and township officials were excited and spoke in favor of the possibilities of a regional trail going through Barry County, others were opposed. Some individuals raised concerns about vandalism on the trail and the loss of personal use by landowners who own sections of the old railroad grade. Another concern was the ability of the landowner to have access to a farm on both sides, where the railroad grade cuts through the middle of a field. “It’s good to know where people stand so that we can address those concerns,” said Jensen. Rick Moore, head of the trail subcommittee, assured those landowners they would maintain the necessary access to reach their fields. The trail presentation portion of the meeting ended with Hastings Charter Township Supervisor Jim Brown giving an enthusiastic endorsement of the trail. For more information on the Paul HenryThornapple Trail or the parks and recreation board, email Rick Moore, julimoore@hotmail.com, or call the Barry County Conservation District, 269-948-8056. COA director tells about the past year Commission on Aging served 58,000 meals by David DeDecker Staff Writer Hastings Kiwanis members received a sneak peek at the Barry County Commission on Aging annual report during their April 18 meeting. Director Tammy Pennington told of the accomplishments of the COA during 2011 and informed Kiwanis she would present the entire report to the Barry County Board of Commissioners April 24. According to Pennington, the Commission on Aging served 1,793 seniors during 2011 — an increase of about 200 since 2009. There are roughly 10,000 seniors in Barry County, she said, almost twice as many women as men. Of the seniors served, 329 were over the age of 85. The COA served over 58,000 meals in 2011, in every township in Barry County. The organization also provided more than 7,000 hours of home care. Pennington said the mission of the COA is to promote independence for senior residents, and many events are planned to bring people out of their homes, including a Sweetest Day Brunch, a large Christmas party, Senior Day at the Barry County Fair, a summer picnic, Grandmother’s Day Tea Party, car show for Kinship Care, line dancing two days a week, massages and video game exercises. One of the highlights, Pennington said, was the COA partnering with Hastings Area Schools to bring the Kalamazoo Ballet to Central Elementary for a production of “The Nutcracker.” “The economy has hit older adults very hard, and we are doing a lot of assistance with utility shut-offs,” said Pennington. “We have purchased furnaces for older people who can’t afford them. We have assisted with propane and fuel oil deliveries. In 2011, we spent just over $12,000 on those emergency needs.” Barry County Commission on Aging Director Tammy Pennington She told about a program through the U.S. Department of Agriculture that provides fresh food assistance. Seniors in need can use a coupon book to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables at local farmers markets. “We really could not do what we do in the community without the support of service groups like Kiwanis and the businesses you all represent,” said Pennington. “We have so many good and loyal donors, so many new donors, and the 280 volunteers help out at the COA.” For more information on the Barry County Commission on Aging, call 269-948-4856. by Shari Carney Staff Writer With record-setting warm temperatures in March, area maple syrup producers wondered what the season would yield. However, the sap still flowed and even exceeded expectations. The production varies by year and is rarely predictable, but local residents know they can always look forward to the Vermontville Maple Syrup Festival. Planners for the 2012 festival have packed the weekend with activities. Fireworks, will again blast color through the evening sky Friday (Saturday, if weather is inclement). Preceding will be the presentation of the queen and her court, Meghann Zank, Yulanda Sheridan, Gretchen Hakenjos and Shennondoah Fighter. The girls are juniors at Maple Valley High School and are looking forward to a year of festivals and parade appearances throughout Michigan. Performers of all ages and talents will grace the Main Street Stage Friday, appearing before judges to vie for a cash prize. Grand Marshal Kay Marsh, former Vermontville treasurer who retired last year, will make appearances throughout the weekend, including waving to the throngs as she is chauffeured through the village during the Grand Parade Saturday. Maple syrup vendors will be located throughout the village amongst a midway with rides and carnival games provided by Mid-America. Maple Valley Band Boosters and the American Legion Post will keep griddles hot for maple syrup-laden pancakes. Saturday, in addition to pancakes, Vermontville Lions Club and the United Methodist Church start two days of barbecue chicken dinners. For red meat lovers, the Thousands of people flock to the Vermontville Maple Syrup Festival each year. (File photo) Congregational church will offer roast beef dinners served cafeteria-style. Youngsters are likely to enjoy a petting zoo and the children’s parade, which this year has the theme “Kids are Sweet as Maple Syrup.” Little Miss Maple Syrup Pageant will crown the 2012 princess. Antique cars, woodworking demonstrations, a working sawmill, flea market and an arts and crafts show will add to the atmosphere. A tent revival Saturday at the Vermontville Bible Church is a new addition to the festival with a full schedule of music and speakers. Main Street Stage will feature music of all stylings: Maple Valley Jazz Band, Da Capo Honors Choir, Maple Valley High School Choir, Glen Erin Bagpipe Band, Ionia Community Band, talent show winners and Ezy Street Band. Sunday will add friendly competitions, including arm wrestling, egg toss, pancake derby and pedal tractor pulls. Vermontville has readied itself for another festival — rain or shine — packed with fun for all. For more information on activities, dates and times, check the advertisement in this week’s paper or visit the webpage, vermontvillemaplesyrupfestival.org. Sewer board meeting tied up in past history by Doug VanderLaan Editor The complexities of municipal government and the pain of America’s four-year recession made for a direct, emotional and revealing regular monthly meeting of the Southwest Barry County Sewer and Water Authority Tuesday evening at the Barry Township Hall in Delton. As some 50 audience members sat poised for the agenda’s public comment period, Authority Chair Jim Stoneburner, representing Prairieville Township, introduced new board members Rod Goebel of Prairieville and David Messelink of Hope Township. Returning board members Barb Earl of Johnstown Township and Wes Kahler of Barry Township also were introduced and round out the five-member board appointed by the townships that make up the authority — Barry, Hope, Johnstown and Prairieville. It was, perhaps, with Goebel and Messelink in mind, that Barry Township resident and Trustee Carol Price took the floor and introduced the subject that dominated the meeting’s next 65 minutes. “At this time last year, sewer customers were paying $21.50 per month for user charges and $13 per month in debt service to pay off the original bond [to establish the authority],” read Price from a prepared statement. “The original bond was paid off and a new sewer contract was written ... the monthly debt service charge was reduced to zero and the monthly user charge was raised to $34.50. “The Sewer Authority board gave the Sewer Authority a raise of 60 percent, or approximately $340,000 annually, ... they may have needed an increase, but I am sure that they did not need a 60 percent increase. “We have two new Sewer Authority Board members and the original end date for the debt service charge of March 2012 has passed. I am asking the Sewer Authority Board to analyze how much of an increase was reasonable and revise the rate resolution at your May 2012 meeting with a realistic increase in rates.” The first response came from Authority Manager Mark Doster who positioned both the user and the debt service charges as a monthly maintenance fee. “The short answer is that the sewer board looks at revenues and costs every year when it does its budget,” said Doster. “The monthly maintenance charge has been $34.50 now for six years without an increase. That was all we thought people were really capable of paying six years ago. “In order to keep that rate at $34.50 all this See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits time, what we had to do was skimp on our capital improvements on the plant. The plan was six years ago and the plan is today that, when that original debt service became retired, that the money would go to fund capital improvements on the plant.” Doster pointed out that two years ago, the sewer board had developed a 10-year plan for capital improvements, a plan that budgets $400,000 per year for maintenance on what is now a 20-year-old plant. “What we want to do is keep the plant in good physical operation for a long period of time,” continued Doster, “and we want to keep that rate the same for as long we can. “We spent $350,000 on capital improvements last year, and we’ve set aside $400,000 for this year. In order to do that, the rate had to stay the same. The board had to transfer debt service to operations and maintenance.” Price’s contention, in her submitted statement, protested the fact that when the transfer was made at a July 25, 2011, Sewer Authority meeting, there was no discussion. Other audience members produced additional evidence of what they considered to be a breach of promise. Tom Imer of Fair Lake referred to a Jan. 19, 2010, letter sent to the sewer board by its attorney James White. “He wrote to the board and referred back to something under the original bond contract dated March 1, 1993, that the funds in the renewal, replacement and improvement account were to be used to satisfy shortfalls,” said Imer. “Does that account exist in the books?” Doster confirmed that it does exist but that, six years ago, it had only a $1,000 balance. When Imer queried if funds had been used for debt service to deplete it to the $1,000 level, Doster responded that, in part, it had. “Prior to me being here, if debt service was short, under the original contract, you first looked to the improvement account to make up differences,” said Doster. ““Then, if you run out you go back to the townships and there was a formula for charging townships for debt service. “We did not have to do that because we managed to keep the costs low enough and put off capital expenses until such time as needed,” he said. Eleanor Vonk, of Fair Lake, produced a Sewer Authority newsletter dated February 1999 that read “SWBCSWA customers are billed $7 per month or $21 per quarter for debt retirement. When the bonds are paid off, this debt service will be eliminated. “I don’t think anyone would dispute paying for services,” said Vonk. “I think it was the way it was handled, and the 1999 newsletter clearly states that ‘when the bonds are paid off, this debt service will be eliminated.’ It didn’t say ‘shifted’ or anything. It is on record that once it was paid, that would be taken care of.” Doster responded again that, unfortunately, costs had gone up in the meantime, and the mission to keep the sewer plant in top condition remains. What the authority wants to do at all costs, is avoid going back to users and increase assessments to cover capital improvement costs. “I understand the maintenance costs, but the bond is paid,” responded Fine Lake resident Ted Ohler. “It should have been up to the sewer board to bring it in front of all the people and say, ‘We need money, let’s put so much in to cover.’ Then I don’t think it’s a problem. But, just to keep charging on it, you got problems.” Doster’s continued defense and the silence of board members raised the concerns of Bob Price, husband to Carol and also a Fair Lake resident. “I’m not sure why Mark is answering all these questions,” said Price. “The board is the one that’s responsible for these decisions, and I don’t hear anybody from the board defending anything that’s been said. “The problem is, he’s making things up as he goes. He’s got no documentation in front of him ... You’ve got people out here with documentation that gives better information than what he’s giving.” Stoneburner rushed to defend Doster, pointing out that Doster carries organizational history, with service that extends beyond the terms of current board members. Stoneburner stated that no decision was going to be made at the Tuesday meeting and that board members could use public input and even the data that was being cited by members of the public at the meeting. The lack of board member history and the complexities of sewage management concerned Jim Enrietti of Pleasant Lake, who questioned board members’ education, business and life experience levels. “The task seems very daunting,” said Enrietti. “What in your background has prepared you to make these very complex decisions?” Both Stoneburner and Kahler spoke for the board, pointing out the difficulties in being both members of their respective township boards and also appointed members of a sewer authority that must rely on professional qualifications and judgement in its manager as well as public input to make sound decisions. “We don’t have management experience or degrees,” said Kahler. “Jim and I also sit on the Gull Lake Sewer Board, and we rely there, too, on the director to give us the best information on which to make a decision. We also depend on lawyers, engineers and people who can provide us insight.” “There isn’t a sewer authority today that can go back to doing business like it did 15 years ago,” maintained Stoneburner. “Mark Doster does a great job. When he came on, there wasn’t a shovel that didn’t have a broken handle. I commend Mark for trying to run this and to sustain ourselves into the future.” To a final audience comment on how answers can be obtained, it was Doster who responded, “Call me. My number is 6233401.” “And he does answer his phone,” confirmed Imer, who also contributed the evening’s most entertaining remark, as he was addressing rising costs of sewer hookup and service at his Fair Lake home. “I’m not in the Secret Service and I’m not in Columbia,” Imer told the board, “but I feel like I’m getting scr----.” The board set up final meeting dates for 2012 and will meet at 7 p.m. in the Barry Township Hall June 26, Aug. 28 and Oct. 23, all Tuesday evenings. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, April 26, 2012 — Page 15 Delton Kellogg Schools celebrate Earth Day DK science teacher Clint Waller (left) presents Assistant Principal Kelly McEwen with the school system’s “Certified Green” flag. This was the second year in a row that Delton Kellogg's entire campus was certified as green by Governor Snyder and the State of Michigan. LARGE or small, We Ship It All! Next Time, Ship Your Luggage! We make it simple, convenient and stress-free. DK celebrated Earth Day with assemblies in the elementary and high schools, did a campus cleanup, and enjoyed a performance of Dolores the Dragon by the Delton Kellogg Theater Arts Company. Company members are Ellen James, Meghan Boer, Brian Wilder, Dutch Sinclair, Sarah Eddy, Katelyn Cook, Ginny Forsyth, Mackenzi Nottingham, Tiffany Smith, Caitlin Cooper, and Michael Shockley. AT RIGHT: Delton Kellogg science teacher Connie High gets the green pie treatment during an Earth Day Celebration. BELOW: DK’s green mascot, or “Green Man”, performs at a school assembly. Students and staff also listened to a performance by the Green Band and played Green Games for prizes. Election filing deadlines nearing Election season in Barry County is going to be an active one and not just because 2012 is a presidential election year. In addition to choosing their national and state legislators, Barry County voters will also be faced with local government contests that will place nearly every local position into play. Every elected position in each of the county’s 16 townships, its four villages, and the city of Hastings will be up for grabs. A newly reapportioned county map will reduce the Barry County Board of Commissioners from an eight-member panel to a seven-person board. And, for the first time statewide, public school board races will be decided in the November general election. Candidates and voters need to be cognizant of the following deadline dates if they want to be a part of the action. All deadlines expire at on the date listed. Election Dates: Aug. 7 — state primary Nov. 6 — general election (local, state, and national) 1351 N.Broadway (M-43) Hastings 269.945.9105 OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:30 - 5:30 Registration deadlines for voters: July 9 — Last day to register for August primary (register at city, county or township clerk office or secretary of state branch office. Online registration also available at military recruitment centers or online at www.michigan.gov/sos) Oct. 9 — Last day to register for November general election. Filing deadlines for candidates: May 1 — appeals court, circuit court, district court or probate Court judgeship candidates for the August primary. Withdrawal deadline is May 4. May 15 — Candidates for county convention delegate (precinct delegate) for the August primary. Affidavit of identity to be submitted to clerk of county, city, or township in which candidate resides. May 15 — Partisan and non-partisan city, village, township, county candidates (other than judicial) file nominating petition (or fees, if applicable) and affidavit of identity for August primary. July 19 — district library board candidates who wish to seek office at the November general election file an affidavit of identity and a nominating petition (or a $100 nonrefundable fee). Special note: If district library includes a school district, District Library Board candidates file by on Aug. 14 July 19 — candidates without party affiliation file qualifying petitions and affidavit of identity for November general election. July 27 — write-in candidates other than write-in candidates for precinct delegate positions file Declaration of Intent forms for August primary. Aug. 3 — write-in candidates for precinct delegate positions file Declaration of Intent forms for August primary. Aug. 14 — local school board candidates, community college trustee candidates and district library board candidates file an affidavit of identity and a nominating petition (a $100 nonrefundable fee may be filed in lieu of petition). If district library does not include a school district, district library candidates file by July 19. Aug. 14 — Village candidates seeking office in November election file affidavit of identity and a nonpartisan nomination petition. Oct. 26 — Write-in candidates file Declaration of Intent forms for November election. �Page 16 — Thursday, April 26, 2012 — The Hastings Banner POLICE BEAT BEA Suspect escapes custody; captured 12 hours later Hastings officers were dispatched to the BP station on North Broadway and Woodlawn Avenue at 1:42 a.m. Wednesday morning after an alarm at the station was activated. Just prior to that, a Hastings officer had stopped to speak with two individuals in the same area. The officer left the two to respond to the alarm. He discovered that an attempted entry had been made at the rear door to the station. The same two individuals were then seen running away. Both suspects were quickly taken into custody and placed into separate patrol cars. At the time of arrest, both suspects were found to be in possession of a bag tools commonly described a burglary tools, including flashlights, hammer, chisel, pry bar, channel-lock pliers, scissors, tape, regular pliers and several screwdrivers. Minutes later, one of the suspects escaped custody through an unsecured vehicle partition. A police service dog was called to the scene, but was unable to track the suspect. Prior to his escape, the suspect had been identified as a 28-year-old Hastings man, recently of Howell. Hastings Police Chief Jerry Sarver said the man has a substantial history for previous breaking and entering violations, safe cracking and illegal use of a financial transaction device. Wednesday afternoon, the suspect was taken into custody following a search of an apartment on Hanna Lane, Hastings. Officers, with the assistance of deputies from the Barry County Sheriff’s Department, searched an apartment. The man was taken into custody without incident after being found in a bedroom. After initially denying his identity, he was positively identified as the suspect. He is expected to be formally charged with attempted breaking and entering, possession of burglar’s tools, escape from custody, motor vehicle theft and resisting and opposing officers from the false name he provided. Drugs, not ex-husband, playing head games Michigan State Troopers were dispatched April 20 to an East Street residence in Nashville on a report of suspicious activities. A 50-year-old female caller reported she could hear her ex-husband breathing and creeping in and out of her residence and trying to harm her. Nashville Police had responded a few hours earlier on the same report from the woman and found no sign of the ex-husband. The caller asked the troopers to step inside the house since she was afraid to go outside and possibly encounter her ex-husband. While inside, she continually reported hearing him yelling at her and racking a gun. Troopers did not find the man but did see illegal drugs in the caller’s house. The woman admitted to use of the drugs. She was arrested and lodged at Barry County Jail for possession of marijuana and methamphetamine. Stolen motorcycle recovered, but damaged Hastings officers responded April 17 to a reported stolen motorcycle from the area of North East Street. The owner of the motorcycle said he had parked his bike April 15 under a car port and noticed the bike was gone. He said the bike’s battery was dead, and since it had loud exhaust, the owner thought he would have heard it start up. The motorcycle was described as a black 1991 Kawasaki sport bike. Later in the night, the bike was spotted being ridden in downtown Hastings, but the rider escaped by crossing the pedestrian bridge near Apple Street. The next morning, the motorcycle was recovered in a field on Bachman Road after a property owner reported it. The bike was reported to have a substantial amount of damage. The plastic side covers and front shroud had been broken off and were later located in a Dumpster on Hanna Lane. A witness later reported seeing two individuals riding the bike on Hanna Lane, but did not report the situation. A description of the two riders was then given to the police. The investigation is continuing. Anyone with information concerning this stolen vehicle is asked to call the Hastings Police, 269-948-4800, or Silent Observer. Silent Observer may reward an anonymous caller if information leads to the persons responsible. Girls skip school and pocket items Hastings Police received a report that two young girls had walked in to a local repair shop April 19 and told the shop owner they were hungry. The owner called the police. A responding officer was told by the two 8year-olds that the mother of one of them had gone out of state, leaving her alone, and that the second girl had been keeping her company. The allegedly abandoned girl said a neighbor was supposed to have checked on her. Both 8-year-olds were transported to the Department of Human Services and turned over to Children’s Protective Services for further interviewing. As the two girls walked around town, they apparently stopped at least four retail stores and the Hastings Public Library. The were later found to be in possession of stolen property at the CPS offices. The total property value appears to exceed $250, and was mostly small trinkets, hobby craft items, food and several library books. Officers later learned the two had skipped school, and both girls had been seen walking into their school building that morning. One of the mothers was out of state, but her daughter had been left in the custody of a friend who had put her on a bus that morning to attend school. Neither parents knew of the girls wandering until CPS called them. Officer spots driver without license Looking out of the window of the Hastings Police station April 18, an officer recognized a driver who was thought to have a suspended license. The officer doublechecked and confirmed the driving status of the individual and then walked across the street and arrested 23-year-old Hastings man. Hat does not protect rider’s head Hastings Officers responded to an accident April 23 involving a moped that crashed at South Broadway and West Court Street. The driver, a 60-year-old woman from Kentwood reportedly was attempting to make a turn off Broadway onto Court Street. She apparently lost control of the bike, fell to the pavement and received head and arm injuries. She was not wearing a helmet, only a hat. Open garage door invites larceny Barry County Deputies responded to a theft complaint April 21 on Star School Road. The property owner told deputies two gas cans, an impact gun, socket set and jumper pack were taken from his garage. He said the garage door had been open for two days and he believed the theft occurred at that time. He suspected no one. The case remains under investigation. Fraudulent business continues A Hastings man contacted the sheriff’s department April 16 to report a suspected fraud through the Internet sales site craigslist. He told deputies about listing a drum set and receiving an email from a potential buyer. The prospect agreed to pay the $550, but sent a check for $2,760 asking the seller to wire the balance to his mover in Indiana, through a Western Union. The seller provided all emails and the deputy also collected the check which was sent via U.S. Mail. The case is pending verification of check status. The man suffered no monetary loss. Reportedly, Barry County has seen a vast amount of similar cases. According to the report, a detective with the sheriff’s department told the deputy there has been a lack of progress on the alleged fraud cases, and the prosecutor’s office would no longer issue subpoenas for such cases. Woman bitten for trying to help friend Deputies arrived at the Goldsworthy’s Marathon station in Dowling in response to a fight between two women April 17. When deputies arrived, the two had stopped fighting and were sitting together in a white car. The deputy asked the driver to get out of the vehicle with her hands visible. When a second deputy arrived, he asked the other woman to do the same. Reportedly, the driver’s hands were bloody. The woman explained her friend, the passenger, had recently moved in to her house with the condition there would be no alcohol. The friend had left the store with a bottle of vodka, and a fight ensued. As the driver explained, when she tried to take the pint away, her friend bit her in the hands. Before deputies arrived, the passenger also had consumed the entire bottle of vodka. The driver said she also was worried about her friend, because in addition to the alcohol, she had also been taking medication, possibly Norco. The alleged drinker Continued next column POLICE BEAT, continued from previous column confirmed she had bitten the woman, consumed the alcohol, but had taken Xanax and Ambien. While speaking to the 50-year-old Hastings woman, a deputy noted that her impairment become worse. A portable breath test registered .21 percent blood alcohol content, an ambulance was requested. Paramedics examined the woman, and she was released to go home under the care of her friend. The passenger became difficult and began verbally assaulting the driver. She was then arrested for assault. A report was forwarded to the prosecutor’s office. Best kitchen knife has alternative use Deputies were dispatched to a Delton residence April 19 on a report of domestic violence. Delton Kellogg School staff had reported that a elementary school student told a teacher the student’s mother had been attacked. The student said the attacker threatened to kill the woman with a knife. When a deputy arrived, a man and woman came out to the porch. The deputy asked to speak to the woman alone. The woman told the deputy she and her husband had been drinking the previous evening and an argument ensued. During the argument, she said her husband, a 43-year-old Delton man, grabbed a kitchen knife, held her by the shoulder as he put the 10-inch blade to her neck. He allegedly made comments of killing her with the knife and pushed her to the floor. Reportedly, a child had stepped in to protect their mother and attempted calling 911. The father took the phone away from the 12-year-old. When asked if the man had ever assaulted her before, the woman said they had been married for 14 years and there had been some minor pushing. When questioned, the man denied pushing his wife to the ground but admitted to hold a knife above his wife, not at her neck. The man said after the incident he left the house and went to the bar. Deputies placed the husband under arrest for domestic violence and collected the knife as evidence. The woman was reluctant to release alleged weapon because it was her best kitchen knife. Statewide spring drunk driving crackdown results in 400 arrests More than 400 motorists were arrested for drunk driving during a three-week impaired driving crackdown in Michigan. Of those arrested, 79 were charged under the state’s high blood alcohol content law, for having a BAC of .17 percent or higher. Law enforcement officers from more than 165 agencies conducted stepped-up enforcement aimed at curtailing drunk driving during the Drunk Driving, Over the Limit, Under Arrest crackdown March 13 to April 2. This resulted in 8,083 traffic stops and nearly 4,000 citations or arrests, including 281 for other alcohol- and drug-related charges, such as open intoxicants. “Michigan law enforcement agencies take drunk driving very seriously,” said Michael L. Prince, Office of Highway Safety Planning director. “The increased enforcement also provided opportunities to identify other traffic safety violations and resolve unsolved cases.” In addition to the 405 drunk driving arrests, 214 misdemeanor and felony arrests were made. Officers also issued 148 seat belt and child restraint, 722 speeding and 425 uninsured motorist citations. Five stolen vehicles were recovered, 326 drivers were found to be driving on suspended licenses and 161 fugitives were arrested during the enforcement effort. OHSP coordinated the effort, which was funded with federal highway safety grants, in 26 counties. In Kalamazoo County, Richland Township officers stopped a suspected drunk driver. That stop resulted in several arrests, including possession of drugs, open intoxicants, minor in possession charges and a confession for a recent home invasion. In the past, OHSP funded March drunk driving efforts focused only on St. Patrick’s Day. A five-year review of crash data indicated alcohol use and failure to buckle up played a significant role in fatal and serious injury crashes during the month and into early April. March included St. Patrick’s Day, many school spring break periods and college basketball tournament games. Call 945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads COURT NEWS David Earl Stephens, 51, of Woodland was sentenced April 18 for operating under the influence of liquor, third offense. He was ordered to serve 10 months in jail, with credit for 11 days served. He must pay $2,198 and serve 36 months of probation. Stephens was granted a work release. He must attend cognitive behavior therapy and Alcoholics Anonymous while in jail and successfully complete the Swift and Sure Sanctions Program. Upon leaving jail, Stephens must pay $250 per month toward costs. Charges of operating with a license suspended, revoked or denied and habitual offender were dropped. Delton resident Jessica Sue Purdum, 25, was sentenced April 18 for larceny of a building. Purdum was ordered to serve nine months in jail, with credit for 47 days served. She must pay $1,719 in costs and serve 36 months on probation. Purdum was ordered to successfully complete drug court and pay $100 per month toward court assessments. A charge of assault or assault and battery was dropped. Jonathan Melvel Shotts, 41, of Hastings was sentenced for attempted child accosting for immoral purposes. Shotts was ordered April 18 to serve 11 months in jail, with credit for one day served. He must serve 60 months on probation and pay $1,698 in assessments. The last three months of his jail sentence will be suspended upon entering a program at Pine Rest. Shotts must attend sex offender and mental health counseling. He is to have no contact with anyone under 17 years without approved supervision, and no contact with the victim unless requested. Shotts must also pay $300 per month on $1,698 in court assessments. Charges of accosting children for immoral purposes and habitual offender were dropped. Spencer Lee Shumaker, 40, of Charlotte was sentenced April 18 for fleeing and eluding, second degree. Shumaker was ordered to serve 12 months in jail, with credit for two days served. He must pay $3,448 in court assessments and serve 60 months on probation. He was granted a work release, and must attend cognitive behavior therapy and participate in the Swift and Sure Sanctions Program. Charges of assaulting, resisting or obstructing a police officer; operating with license suspended, second or subsequent offense; and habitual offender were dropped. John Michael Ulrich, 46, of Hastings was sentenced April 18 for illegal use of financial transaction device. Ulrich was ordered to serve 12 months in jail, with credit for 63 days served. He must serve 36 months of probation and pay $3,939 in assessments. The last three months of his jail sentence are suspended. Ulrich was granted a work release and must pay $250 per month toward assessments. He must participate in the Swift and Sure Sanctions Program and will be electronically monitored upon release from jail. A charge of larceny of a building and stealing or retaining a financial transaction device without consent were dropped. Raymond Allen Poulson, 19, of Middleville was sentenced for criminal sexual conduct, third degree, with a person 13 to 15 years of age. Poulson was ordered April 18 to serve 12 months in jail, with credit for 18 days served. He also was ordered to pay $1,198 in assessments and serve 60 months on probation. He must have no contact with the victim, complete his GED in jail, and pay $50 per month toward assessments. The last three months of jail are to be suspended upon successful completion of probation. Two additional charges of criminal sexual conduct, third degree, with a person 13 to 15 years of age were dropped. Paul Brian Toothman of Wyoming was sentenced April 18 for larceny of a building. Toothman, 28, was ordered to serve 12 months in jail, with credit for two days served. He must pay $951 in assessments and serve 36 months on probation. Toothman was ordered to pay $50 per month on the assessments. The balance of his jail time will be suspended upon successful completion of the ARC program in Grand Rapids. Charges dropped included breaking and entering a building with intent; larceny of a building; and habitual offender, second offense. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 For Sale Garage Sale Business Services AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 RAISING MONEY FOR mission trip. Toys, furniture, lots of variety. 1199 Oxbow Drive. Located in Old Farm Village across from S&S Market on M37. Thurs. & FOR SALE: FISHING tackle Fri. 4/26th-27th. 9-6; Sat. manufacturing company. In- 4/28th, 8-11. ventory, records, name. $2,000. Call (269)268-6432 Automotive FOR SALE: 1990 GMC 1500 pickup, V-6, 5-speed manual transmission. 100,000 miles. New paint job, rims and tires, $2,500.00. 2000 Mercury Cougar, 5 speed manual transmission, V6 engine. New brakes. Small dent in Lawn & Garden passenger side door, FOR SALE: JOHN Deere $2,000.00. Please call 616212 lawn and garden tractor, 881-3546 48” mower deck. Bought new in 1979. Pincor electric RICK TAYLOR’S DETAIL generator 110 & 220 4500 WORKS. Hours 8am-5pm, watt Hit & Miss gas engine Monday-Saturday. Trust a John Deere 1934. Coleman professional with 44 years canoe 15 footer. Best offers. experience. (269)948-0958. (269)945-5025. FREE HEAT- Classic Outdoor Wood Furnace from Central Boiler. Call SOS you “Stocking Dealer” Dutton, MI (616)554-8669 or (616)915-5061. National Ads Garage Sale GARAGE SALE: FRIDAY, April 27th, 9:00-6:00; Saturday, April 28th, 9:00-3:00. Twin beds, tons of girls and boys clothes, toys, soccer shoes and more. 2744 Fox Glove Drive, Middleville, off West State Road between Woodschool and Solomon Road. POLE BARN SALE: April 27th, 28th, & 29th, 8am-9pm; Lawn care equipment including 2 riding lawn mowers, air compressor, vintage furniture, collectibles, breakfast and dining room furniture, 2000 Silverado 3500, 91,000 miles, 4x4, loaded, vacuum sweepers and more. 351 S. M66 Hwy- That’s 2.6 miles north of Nashville, east of side of road. Help Wanted 25 DRIVER TRAINEES Needed NOW! Become a driver for Werner Enterprises! Earn $750 per week! No experience needed! Local CDL Training! Job ready in 15 days! 1-877-649-2697. Estate Sale ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is deceptive, fraudulent or might otherwise violate law or accepted standards of taste. However, this publication does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the quality of goods or services advertised. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made in any advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you ask for money in advance of delivery of goods or services advertised. PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 BOOKKEEPING SERVICES Personal * Self-Employed * Small Business Payroll * Billing Accounts Receivable * Accounts Payable General Ledger Weekly * Monthly * Quarterly * Annually Call today! (269)420-5714 FOR SALE: FISHING tackle manufacturing company. Inventory, records, name. $2,000. Call (269)268-6432 PROFESSIONAL LAWN CARE SERVICES: Now taking new customers in the Hastings area. Very reasonable prices, please call for a free quote. (269)945-5383 BASEMENT WATERPROOFING: PROFESSIONAL BASEMENT SERVICES waterproofing, crack repair, mold remediation. Local/licensed. Free estimates. (517)290-5556. ROY HALL’S AUTO DETAILING: 25 years serving Barry County, (269)948-8377. Wanted BUYING OLD POCKET watches, old wind up wrist watches, working or not working. Call George (616)916-8271 BUYING WWII, WWI, Civil War uniforms, weapons, helmets, bayonets, German, Japanese, and American. Call George (616)916-8271 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, April 26, 2012 — Page 17 Vikes win D2 at Dick’s Invite Maple Valley’s Wiebke Sass is whistled for a foul as she sends Lakewood’s Shannon Morse flying during the second half Monday in Nashville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Lakewood’s varsity boys’ golf team took the Division 2 championship at Saturday’s Dick’s Sporting Goods Invitational hosted by Perry at Glenbrier Golf Course. The Viking team shot a 334, finishing five strokes better than runner-up Lutheran North which finished with a 339. Lakewood’s Adam Barker was third in the overall standings, among all the Division 1 and 2 golfers in the 21-team field. He fired a 76, putting just 25 times all round. He went up and down 11 times. “He had an outstanding round,” said Lakewood head coach Carl Kutch. “Needless to say, his short game was on fire.” Portland was third in the Division 2 standings with a 344, followed by Ithaca 346, Laingsburg 351, Caro 353, Corunna 358, New Lothrop 362, Perry 395 and Fowlerville 426. “The conditions were very tough today, cold and windy,” Kutch said. “Our guys played very well.” Lakewood also got an 85 from Jade Bosworth, and 86 from Royce Everts and a pair of 87s from Kyler Clark and Ben Ridder. Howell’s Nick Park and Caro’s Adam Wendling each shot a 75 to take individual honors. Davison took the Division 1 championship, scoring a 324. Only three of the 11 Division 1 teams finished better than the Vikings. Grand Blanc ‘B’ shot a 329 and Howell a 330. DeWitt, which finished fourth, matched the Vikings’ 334. The Capital Area Activities Conference Lakewood’s varsity boys’ golf team celebrates its Division 2 Championship at the Dick’s Sporting Goods Invitational hosted by Perry Saturday. White Division season opened at Corunna Hills Thursday, with the Vikings earning a runner-up finish to Lansing Catholic. The Cougars were just two strokes better than the Vikings, 163 to 165. Portland was third with a 166, followed by Williamston 171, Corunna 174 and Perry 211. Bosworth led Lakewood with a 38, while Barker added a 40, Clark a 42 and Ridder and Blake Yeager 45s. “Jade and Adam continue to play very solid,” Kutch said. “Kyler has shown some nice improvement in the last two matches, firing a 39 on Tuesday and 42 Thursday.” The CAAC-White gets together again Thursday, at Perry. Vikings beat Maple Valley girls in DK girls knock off Hackett again physical match by Brett Bremer Sports Editor As long as they’re healed by Thursday, Lakewood head coach Paul Gonzales expects Monday’s 4-2 non-conference win over Maple Valley to help his Vikings during the league season. Lakewood’s varsity girls’ soccer team improved to 4-1-1 with its victory over the host Lions at Fuller Street Field. Kelsey Brown scored twice for the Vikings, including putting home a PK for her team’s lone goal in the second half. That PK goal increased the Viking lead to 4-1 at the time. “We played against a really, really, really physical team,” Gonzales said. “Had some girls getting hurt. I thought the refs though did a good job of controlling it though.” “Our league is really tough. They’re physical, but they’re a clean physical though. It’s going to toughen us up for those games.” Lakewood opens the Capital Area Activities Conference White Division season at Lansing Catholic today (April 26). The Vikings then face Williamston at home Tuesday. Brown opened the scoring Monday, 6 minutes and 14 seconds into the contest, off an assist from Nellie Tait. Lakewood pushed its lead to 3-0 with three goals in the first 21 minutes of the game. Megan Cronk took a long pass ahead from Roxanne Powelson and beat the last two Lion defenders down the field while hitting a low shot by the Lion keeper. Emily Taylor scored the Vikings’ final goal of the first half, on a similar play. Chelsie Doran hit a past beyond the Lion defense which Taylor ran on to and shot into the Lion net with 19:02 left before the half. Breanna Heinze scored both goals for the Lions. The Vikings keeper Danielle Kosten bobbled a long shot by the Lions’ Wiebke Sass, and Heinze knocked it out from under the Viking goalie for her team’s first goal with 2:15 left in the first half. Heinze closed out the scoring by skipping a shot off the inside of the left post and into the net with 15:25 to play in the second half, with an assist going to Olivia Ricketts on the play. “I thought we played well tonight. I really did. I thought we played a lot better in the second half,” said Maple Valley head coach Chris Ricketts. “We’ve got a long ways to go, but we competed a lot better in the second half.” Lakewood had a tougher time getting behind the Lion defense in the second half. Coach Ricketts credited that to some line-up changes which included moving Christin Post into the center of the defense, and a strong defensive effort from Wiebke Sass as well. The Lions nearly got within a goal late. Kosten was able to tip a shot by Olivia Ricketts, who played much of the first half in goal for the Lions before moving into the midfield, over the Viking net with just over ten minutes left to play. “I’ve got to give credit to Maple Valley,” Gonzales said. “I thought their girls passed it around. They’ve got some athletes who have learned how to pass the ball from someone. They’re getting better. Every year our games get closer and closer with them.” The Lions are still looking for their first win, but have scored two goals in three of their four contests so far this season. Delton Kellogg’s Jaime Risner dribbles away from pressure being supplied by Harper Creek’s Schae Brandt Friday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Delton Kellogg’s varsity girls’ soccer team evened its Kalamazoo Valley Association record with a 3-2 victory over Hackett Catholic Central in Kalamazoo Wednesday. The Panthers are 1-1 in the league this season, having topped the defending league champion Irish and fallen in a shoot-out to perennial power Kalamazoo Christian. The Panthers have beaten the Irish in two of their last three meetings, with the loss coming in a shoot out in the semifinals of the KVA Hastings will host Spring Fling Tuesday Maple Valley’s Alexis Lamance pushes the ball ahead in front of Lakewood’s Roxanne Powelson during the second half of their non-conference contest at Fuller Street Field in Nashville Monday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Saxon Athletics and the Saxon Athletic Boosters will once again be celebrating their Spring Fling Celebration, May 1. Nearly all of the Hastings High School varsity spring sports will be at home on Tuesday, with other activities that include a free tailgate party at the Saxon Tailgater Bus with recently hired superintendent Todd Geerlings attending for a “meet and greet” session, free kids events, free admission to all games and free give-aways. The evening concludes with a staff versus seniors basketball game in the high school gymnasium, which is scheduled for 8 p.m. Organizers ask for a $1 donation, which will go to the athletic boosters. The Tailgate Party will be held at the Johnson Field main entrance from 4:30 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. The varsity softball team will take on South Christian in a double header behind the high school beginning at 4:15 p.m., while the baseball team will host the Sailors for a doubleheader at 4:15 p.m. The varsity girls’ tennis team hosts Wayland at 4 p.m. The varsity boys’ and girls’ track and field teams will also host Wayland beginning at 4 p.m. The varsity girls’ soccer team will take on South Christian at 5:45 p.m. on Pierce Field behind the high school. Tournament last spring. Delton Kellogg jumped in front 2-0 in the first half against the Irish. Brianna Russell assisted teammate Hannah Phommavongsa 13 minutes into the game, and then Russell scored to put her team up 2-0 five and a half minutes later. Russell and Phommavongsa teamed up one more time in the second half, quickly answering the Irish team’s first score. Casey Lamp scored for the Irish, off an assist from Amanda Rocha with 27:21 left in the contest. It took Phommavongsa just 29 seconds to get that goal back for DK, finishing off another assist from Russell. Rocha then pulled her team back within a goal with 22:40 left in the contest. Carlye Hammond made eight saves to help preserve the win for the Panthers. Hackett goalie Grace Smith had four saves at the other The Panthers’ Autumn Russell looks to drop a pass back during her team’s nonconference win over Harper Creek in Delton Friday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) end. Delton Kellogg followed up that big KVA victory by knocking off non-conference foes Three Rivers and Harper Creek. The Panthers topped Three Rivers 3-1 in Three Rivers Monday DK scored all three of its goals in the first half, with Russell Phommavongsa and Jaime Risner scoring. Assists went to Sara Rendon, Risner and Kanoe Chaffee. Phommavongsa scored twice in the Panthers’ 4-0 win over visiting Harper Creek Friday. Aryka Poling and Russell added the other two Delton goals. Phommavongsa, Alea Hammond, Russell and Risner had assists for Delton. Delton is now 4-1 overall. The Panthers were scheduled to host Pennfield Wednesday, and will return to action at Comstock Friday. The Panthers return to league play Monday at Maple Valley then will host Olivet Wednesday. Delton Kellogg’s Sam Zettelmaier taps a pass ahead in the Beavers’ offensive end during Friday’s non-conference victory. (Photo by Perry Hardin) �Page 18 — Thursday, April 26, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Saxons score two double digit wins in Middleville by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Saxons got some revenge Tuesday. Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity baseball team topped the Saxons in the championship game of the April 14 Barry County Invitational in Hastings. Hastings went to Middleville Tuesday, and swept both games of its O-K Gold Conference double header with the Trojans - putting the mercy rule into effect in both contests. Hastings took the opener 15-5 in five innings, then won the nightcap 12-1 in six innings. “Sometimes all it takes is one hit and the kids start hitting with more confidence,” said Hastings head coach Marsh Evans. “You could see that tonight, and against good pitchers too. It was good. I’m happy for our kids, and Middleville will be back. They’ll be back in two days and they’ll be tough.” The Saxons and Trojans close out their three-game league set in Hastings Thursday afternoon. Hastings improved to 2-6 in the OK Gold with the two wins over the Trojans. “They outplayed us,” said TK head coach Jack Hobert. “They wanted it more. They outhit us. We weren’t ready to play and they were. We didn’t throw strikes. We were giving up 2-0 counts, 3-1 counts. It was mental today, no doubt about it. It was mental. Not taking anything away from them. They hit the ball. We didn’t. We weren’t ready.” Trojan starter Jordan Timm set down the first four Saxons he faced in order in game one, but that first out in the top of the second inning was followed by two walks and three singles for the bottom five batters in the Saxons line-up. All five would come around to score as Hastings would send 12 batters to the plate in the inning, scoring six runs. The Saxons tacked on three runs in the top Hastings’ Brandon Redman rounds third and heads for home during the top of the third inning of game two Tuesday at Thornapple Kellogg. (Photo by Brett Bremer) of the third, then put the game away with a six run fourth inning in which they batted around again. It was the bottom of the order that did most of the run scoring for the Saxons in the two games. The five through nine batters scored 21 of the Saxons 27 runs. Jon French and David Pierce scored three times each in the opener. Pierce had three hits, including a pair of doubles. John Parker had two doubles too, and scored twice. The Saxons also got two runs each from Travis Sixberry and Jake Swartz. Number three hitter Devin Greenfield was the only starter not to score a run in the two games for the Saxons. He was on base five times though. Hastings got two solid pitching performances Tuesday, with Nicholas Replogle holding the Trojans to six singles and a double by Caden Francisco. Replogle struck out two and didn’t walk a batter. Dylan VanPutten was the only Trojan with two hits. Dalton Phillips had a pair of RBI for TK. “Nicholas (Replogle) pitched a great first game, and Jake Swartz was outstanding the second game. He’s had a couple tough outings where we didn’t really do him any favors defensively, and the last couple outings he’s been fantastic. This is kind of what we’d envisioned at the beginning of the year, and it’s Hastings’ Jake Swartz fires towards the plate during the bottom of the third inning of game two against Thornapple Kellogg Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The Saxons’ Devin Greenfield bounces the ball towards the left side, plating the final run during his team’s six-run third inning during game two at Thornapple Kellogg Tuesday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) good to see the kids win,” said Evans. It was Swartz who shut down the Trojans from the mound in game two. He limited TK to five hits, a double and four singles, in the Saxons’ 12-1 win. He struck out two and walked one. “They threw a lot of offspeed stuff and kept us off balance, but hitters have got to adjust,” Hobert said. “Hitters have got to adjust.” Hastings had nine hits, including two doubles by French and a single and a double for Sixberry. French scored three times again, and drove in the two runs that put the mercy rule into effect with his sixth-inning double. Sixberry, Swartz and Brandon Redman all scored twice. Redman had a single and walked three times. Hastings started early again, getting two in the second and then six runs in the third inning as it sent 12 batters to the plate again. The Saxons then closed out the game with a run in the fifth and three more in the top of the sixth. TK got its lone run in the bottom of the fifth, on an RBI single by Brendon Hudson which scored Nate Iveson from third base. Iveson reached on a bunt single, and advanced to third on a couple of wild pitches. Starting pitcher Austin Lajcak took the loss for TK. East Kentwood topped the Saxons in a pair of non-conference games at Hope College Saturday, scoring 5-2 and 14-3 victories. “We have played some great games against Kentwood and it’s important for us to play that caliber of competition throughout the season,” Evans said. “Our pitching was thin with to begin the day and that caught up to us in the second game, but our kids did not quit and we got some quality at-bats from several kids in our line-up which was good for us to see too.” The Falcons jumped on the Saxons for three runs in the first inning of game one, but the Saxons settled in and played them even in the rest of that contest. Starter Brandon Redman took the loss for the Saxons, but Evans said that he settled down and pitched well after that first inning. The Saxons got a nice relief performance from Alex Nichols, who allowed the Falcons just one hit in his three innings of work. Mitchell Kolanowski led the Saxons hitters with three singles and a pair of stolen bases. Swartz added a pair of base hits, and Michael Eastman (RBI), Tyler Stolicker and Replogle had one hit each. A ten-run third inning put the Falcons comfortably in front in game two. Kolanowski continued his fine season at the plate with another base hit. He stole second and came home on a fielder’s choice off the bat of Eastman to put Hastings up 1-0 int he game. Replogle and Pierce singled for the Saxons in the fifth, and came home on a two-run double by French to close out their scoring. The Saxons were 0-3 in their O-K Gold set with Grand Rapids Catholic Central last week, but played well for the most part falling 9-8 and 7-2 in the two games of the double header Tuesday, and then 4-1 in the finale Thursday in Grand Rapids. A three-run fourth inning for the Cougars did the Saxons in. Hastings had just tied the game at 1-1 in the top half of the inning. Sixberry was hit by a pitch to start that scoring run for the Saxons. Alex Nichols came on to run, and reached third as Greenfield successfully executed a hit-and-run. He came home on a single by Replogle. Hastings outhit the Cougars 8-4 in the loss, but nine walks helped the Cougars out. Sixberry took the loss, pitching into the fourth before giving way to Swartz. Kolanowski and Redman had two hits each for Hastings. Hastings girls shut out in first two Gold contests by Brett Bremer Sports Editor It took a few minutes for the Fighting Scots to start clicking, but once they did Hastings couldn’t stop them. Caledonia’s varsity girls’ soccer team opened O-K Gold Conference play with an 80 win over visiting Hastings Wednesday evening in Caledonia. Kendra Stauffer, Rubina Veerakone and Sam Maher had two goals each for Caledonia, and Veerakone added two assists as well. Stauffer added one assist. “I felt like I thought Hastings was showing some great intensity, particularly in the first half,” said Caledonia head coach Steve Sanxter. “They came out with great intensity and actually carried the play and got off some good shots. It took us a little while to adjust and figure it out. I think once we got rolling, I thought our attack was pretty strong. We’ve got players that can carry the ball on the dribble or can distribute the ball, so that makes it tough to defend when that’s happening.” Maher scored the first two goals of the game. The first came in the eighth minute, as she took a centering pass from teammate Heather Jozwik at the top of the 18 and fired an uncontested shot past Saxon keeper Bre Sinclair. That was the first of two assists on the night for Jozwik, who took a nice pass from Veerakone up the right side to set up Maher. In the 12th minute, Maher scored again, firing off a shot after a quick restart by Veerakone. The Scots then scored twice in the 16th minute, getting goals from Veerakone and Shelby Kresnak. Stauffer then scored her goal in the 26th minute, firing a shot across the front of the Saxon goalmouth which glanced off a Hastings defender and into the net. The Scots then got goals from Veerakone, Stauffer and Corrie Good to close out the game in the second half. Joswik, Hannah Jablonski and Lexi Bush added assists in the Hastings goalkeeper Bre Sinclair slides over to save a shot by the Fighting Scots’ Kendra Stauffer during Wednesday’s O-K Gold Conference contest in Caledonia. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The Saxons’ Morganne Hubbell (right) closes in to get the ball from Caledonia’s Alena Olsen in the midfield Wednesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) second half for the Scots. “(The plan was) to play defense,” said Hastings head coach Sarah Smith. “We changed the formation to run one up top and the remaining in the back. It worked out a lot better the first 15 minutes of the game.” “They move the ball so well as a unit. It’s not just three of four girls, it’s the entire unit moves the ball so well.” The Fighting Scots didn’t change up their defensive strategy, but did change things up on the defensive end. “At times we had three freshmen back there. It’s new in that we’re still figuring out who needs to be where. We actually changed everything around tonight,” Sanxter said. “We literally had all four of them in four new spots.” The Scot defense didn’t allow any real dangerous chances, and keeper Ryann Zourdos was solid in net and did a good job of distributing the ball when she got her hands on it. Hastings is now 0-2 in the O-K Gold Conference. Catholic Central topped the Saxons 5-0 on Pierce Field in Hastings Monday evening. The Cougars scored four times in the first half. “Well, they were a very, very fast team,” said Smith. “Their offense was solid with a quick transition, if we could have gotten past a few defensive errors and their speed on the offensive end, we could have kept the game close.” The Saxons did pick things up in the second half, creating a couple scoring opportunities. Smith said seniors Haley Wagner, Morganne Hubbell, Amber Nurenberg, Jennifer Jarman, Dani Meredith and Jennifer Feldpausch were solid in the midfield during the Saxons’ second half surge, and that attackers Megan Ziegler and Dallas McKay were able to put some pressure on the Cougars up front. “We just weren’t able to get that one last touch in the goal,” Smith said. “We will get there, I have confidence in these girls.” The Saxons were scheduled to return to action at Thornapple Kellogg Wednesday and will be at Hudsonville Thursday. Next week the Saxons play back to back games Tuesday and Wednesday, at home against South Christian and then at Ottawa Hills. DK tops Allegan after split with Constantine and Olivet Delton Kellogg’s varsity boys’ golf team knocked off Allegan at Chesire Hills Golf Course Thursday, outscoring the Tigers 167 to 181. Mitchell Wandell led the Panthers with a 35. He was the only golfer from either team under 40 on the day. Delton also got a 41 from Zack Simon, a 45 from Conner Worm and a 46 from DJ Prater. Allegan got a 41 from Ryan Pinnell, a 45 from Drew Huff, a 47 from Frank Locatic and a 48 from Jimmy Fretwell. The Panthers went 1-1 at their Kalamazoo Valley Association Tri at Mullenhurst Golf Course Wednesday, topping Constantine but falling to Olivet. Wandell was the day’s top golfer again, with a 35, but Olivet had Keagan Carpenter and Tyler Masters both fire a 37. The Eagles also got a pair of 43s from Ben Koeske and Justin Kepsel. Delton got a pair of 43s too, from Simon and Farrah. Worm chipped in a 48. Constantine was led by a pair of 50s, from Dylan Geisler and Jacob Mechling. Delton returns to league action Friday at Marywood Golf Course, where it will go up against Pennfield and Hackett Catholic Central. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, April 26, 2012 — Page 19 TK girls get third win, Hastings boys get their first by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Out of a possible 54 points the Trojan throwers scored 54 points in their three O-K Gold Conference duals to open this season. More importantly, the Trojan team won all three of those duals. Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity girls’ track and field team improved to 3-0 in the conference with a 69-68 victory over visiting Hastings Thursday afternoon. The Hastings boys earned their first O-K Gold Conference win by topping the TK boys 73.5 to 63.5 in their dual Thursday. The trio of Erin Ellinger, Aimee Ellinger and DJ Minor swept the three scoring places in both the shot put and the discus for the Trojan girls’ team Thursday. Erin won both events, throwing 36 feet 6.5 inches in the shot put and 114-0 in the discus. Minor was the runner-up in the shot put and Aimee was second in the discus. The three also took the top three spots in both events during the Trojans’ duals with Grand Rapids Catholic Central and Wayland. That string was snapped though Tuesday, and so was the TK girls’ team’s conference win streak, as the Trojans were downed at Forest Hills Eastern 89.5-47.5. “They’re solid and they’re working hard and they’re improving,” said TK girls’ coach Abby Kanitz of her throwers. “That’s what’s nice, they are not just winning, they’re improving. They’re competing against themselves. They’ve got a bigger picture in mind, which is nice.” Erin, a senior, was seventh in both events at the Division 2 State Finals last spring. “It’s two seniors and a junior who are sweeping 1-2-3. That’s experience right now, and their hard work,” Kanitz said. “They work hard and they want it. Every day they’re doing their drills and they’re very responsible.” “They hold each other accountable in their drills and they work hard at those drills at practice. It’s not even about their full throws. We don’t worry about full throws as much as we worry about getting those drills down.” TK need all those points and plenty more to hold off the Saxons. TK not only swept the scoring places in the throws, but earned first place in all five of the field events. Heather Raymond took the pole vault by clearing 7-6, Paige Eyk won the long jump at 14-7 and Sidney LeMay won the high jump by clearing 5-0. Hastings had girls place second and third in all three of those events. The Trojans had a bunch of seconds and thirds, and a handful of wins, on the track. Hastings’ Joey Siska tries to pull himself over the bar at 12 feet 6 inches in the pole vault Thursday in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Thornapple Kellogg’s Erin Ellinger winds up for a throw in the discus during Thursday’s O-K Gold Conference dual with Hastings in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The Trojan team of Raymond, Morgan McNutt, Eyk and Fiona Shea won the 400meter relay for TK in 53.17 seconds. That was the only relay win for TK. Shea added a sweep of the sprints, taking the 100-meter dash in 12.99 and the 200 in 26.73. TK also had Molly Lark win the 400 in 1:02.97. “You don’t win a meet like that without being a team,” Kanitz said. “Yeah, our throwers swept, but you don’t win a meet like that without taking a number of second and third places in races. We had girls show up and do that, and that’s what’s important. They’re really there as a team, and every point counts in a meet like this and they understand that.” Hastings was led by Nichole Redman and Trista Straube. Redman won the 100-meter hurdles in 17.22 and the 300-meter low hurdles in 49.55. Straube took the 1600-meter run in 5:32.15 and the 3200 in 12:01.12. Hastings also had Grace Bosma win the 800meter run in 2:28.60. The Trojan boys didn’t have enough sprinters to keep up with the Saxons. Hastings’ boys earned their first win of the season. The Saxons swept the points in the 100-meter dash, and took first and third in the 200 and first and second in the 400. Chad Reedy won the 100 in 11.77, and it was Jacob Comer winning the 200 in 23.29. Comer added a win in the 110-meter high hurdles too, finishing in 15:05. Ben Kolanowski won the 400 for the Saxons in 53.68. Kolanowski couldn’t stay ahead of Thornapple Kellogg’s Dustin Brummel when he tried to run a second 400 though, as part of the 1600-meter relay. Brummel made up a good-sized gap then outsprinted Kolanowski to the finish to clinch the final race of the day for TK. The team of Evan Grinage, Kenny Stahl, Josh Bremer and Brummel finished with a time of 3:38.60, less than half a second better than that of the Saxon foursome. Brummel didn’t need to do too much sprinting in his other wins. “I thought you were going slow,” teammate David Walter shouted at him as he chased Brummel around the second turn in the 3200meter run. “I will. After I do my first lap, then I’ll slow down,” replied Brummel, who’d already won the 1600-meter run in 4:50.41 and the 800meter run in 2:08.52. He finished the 3200 in first place too, with a time of 10:36.30. TK’s Tanin Eckhoff was the runner-up to Comer in the 110-meter high hurdles and the 200-meter dash, but won the 300-meter intermediate hurdles in 43.03, and the high jump by clearing 5-10. TK’s boys also had Tray Mahon win two events, the two throws. He took the shot put at 43-1 and the discus at 147-3. “We lined everything up,” said TK boys’ coach Matt Funk. “We knew we weren’t going to have anything in sprints. We put our points where we needed to. They were a little better in field events than I anticipated, although we did well.” The Saxons’ best field event was the long jump, where Jason Slaughter took first at 1711, edging teammate Casey Goggins who was second at 17-6. Hastings also had Joey Siska win the pole vault by clearing 12-0. The Saxon sprinters took care of business in the relays too, with the team of Devin Bancroft, Stephen Kendall, Goggins and Reedy winning the 400-meter relay in 46.50 and the team of Marquell Giles, Kendall, Goggins and Reedy winning the 800-meter relay in 1:37.24. The biggest win on the track might have been the first one for the Saxons, as the team of Matt Johnson, Kolanowski, Cole Harden and Brandon Johnson won the 3200-meter relay in 8:46.03, edging the Trojan team by just over a second and a half. The TK boys are now 1-2-1 in the conference after falling 86-51 at Forest Hills Eastern Tuesday. Hastings’ boys are 1-3 in the league and the Saxon girls are 2-2 after both teams fell to South Christian Tuesday. The Sailors topped the Hastings boys 69.5 to 67.5. Comer had three wins, tying Siska for first in the pole vault at 12-0, and winning the 110meter high hurdles in 15.06 and the 300-meter intermediate hurdles in 41.26. Hastings also had Kolanowski win the 800 in 2:04.57, and the Saxons took three of the four relays. Kolanowski teamed with Matt Johnson, Brandon Johnson and Corey Robins to win the 1600-meter relay in 3:43.31. The team of Bancroft, Goggins, Kendall and Reedy won the 800-meter relay in 1:37.16 and the 400-meter relay in 46.68. In the field, the Saxons also had Jake Dalman win the high jump at 5-6 and Jakob Bower the shot put with a throw of 40-4.5. The Saxons’ Trista Straube races around a corner in the 3200-meter run during Thursday’s meet at Thornapple Kellogg High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Thornapple Kellogg’s Dustin Brummel (right) and Hastings’ Ben Kolanowski sprint to the finish line at the end of the 1600-meter relay in Middleville Thursday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) SAXON WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE Complete online schedule at: www.hassk12.org THURSDAY, APRIL 26 Boys Girls Girls Girls Boys Girls Boys Girls Girls Girls JV Varsity JV JV Varsity Varsity Varsity Varsity JV Varsity Golf Tennis Softball Tennis Baseball Softball Track Track Soccer Soccer Hastings HS Saxon JV Inv Plainwell HS Otsego HS Plainwell HS Thornapple-Kellogg HS Harper Crk Comm HS DH Ottawa Hills HS Ottawa Hills HS Hudsonville HS Hudsonville HS H A A H H H A A A A Bath High School Bath High School A A Lakewood Invitational Hastings Invitational DKHS Delton Relays Gull Lk HS Gull Lk Invit Saxon JV Invitational DKHS Delton Relays A H A A H A Saxon JV gets no-hitter in final to win county tourney The Hastings JV baseball team celebrates its victory at the JV Barry County Invitational which was hosted by Lakewood High School April 14. The Saxons defeated Thornapple Kellogg 17-3, with Nathan Pewoski pitching the Saxons to victory, and in the championship game the Saxons topped Lakewood 10-0 with Mac Clisso earning the win while throwing a no-hitter. Saxon team members include (front from left) Stephen Shaffer, Nathan Pewoski, (middle row) Zach McMahon, Miguel Arjona, Connor von der Hoff, Taylor Horton, (back) assistant coach Adam Case, Mac Clisso, Josh Ehredt, Ben Schilz, Jon Wilcox and head coach Jason Sixberry. SATURDAY, APRIL 28 9:00 AM 10:00 AM 10:00 AM 10:00 AM 10:00 AM 10:00 AM Boys Boys Boys Girls Girls Girls Fresh. JV MS Varsity JV MS Baseball Baseball Track Softball Tennis Track MONDAY, APRIL 30 12:30 PM Boys Varsity Golf 3:45 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM Boys Boys Boys Girls Girls JV Fresh. MS Fresh. MS Golf Baseball Track Softball Track NorthPointe Christian A NorthPointe Christian Inv GR Catholic Central A S Christian HS DH H Newhall Middle H S Christian HS (5 inning DH) H Newhall Middle H TUESDAY, MAY 1 4:00 PM Both Varsity Wayland Union HS S Christian HS Wayland Union HS S Christian HS DH S Christian HS DH S Christian HS DH S Christian HS DH Wayland Union HS Wayland Union HS S Christian HS H H A H A H A H H H S Christian HS Forest Hills Eastern HS Forest Hills Eastern HS DeWitt DH Kenowa Hills HS Wayland Union HS DH Ottawa Hills HS Vars. Only A H A H A A A WEDNESDAY, MAY 2 FRIDAY, APRIL 27 3:00 PM Boys Varsity Track 3:00 PM Girls Varsity Track Tuesday, May 1 continued 4:00 PM Girls Varsity Tennis 4:00 PM Girls JV Soccer 4:00 PM Girls JV Tennis 4:15 PM Boys Varsity Baseball 4:15 PM Boys JV Baseball 4:15 PM Girls Varsity Softball 4:15 PM Girls JV Softball 4:30 PM Boys Varsity Track 4:30 PM Girls Varsity Track 5:30 PM Girls Varsity Soccer SPRING FLING! (All Varsity Sports at home – Free Admission, Tailgate Party HASTINGS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS Contact Nancy 945-2742 or hastingsathleticboosters@gmail.com to sponsor the schedule 3:45 PM 4:00 PM 4:00 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 5:00 PM Boys Girls Girls Boys Boys Girls Girls Varsity Varsity JV JV Fresh. Fresh. Varsity Golf Tennis Tennis Baseball Baseball Softball Soccer THURSDAY, MAY 3 3:45 PM 4:00 PM 4:00 PM 4:00 PM 4:15 PM 5:00 PM Boys Boys Girls Girls Boys Girls Varsity MS JV MS Varsity JV Golf Track Softball Track Baseball Soccer Hastings HS H Comstk HS Comstk Relays A Marshall HS DH A Comstk HS Comstk Relays A S Christian HS A Hopkins HS H Times and dates subject to change Thanks to This Week’s Sponsor: Good Luck Saxons! from the Jager family 77567290 3:45 PM 4:00 PM 4:00 PM 4:00 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:30 PM 4:30 PM 5:30 PM 7:00 PM �Page 20 — Thursday, April 26, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Hastings girls rally in 7th and 8th to earn split by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The international tiebreaker couldn’t be executed any better. The Saxons’ Liz Guernsey started the bottom of the eighth inning on second base, advanced to third on Anna Cooley’s sacrifice bunt, then raced home as Lexi Clow bounced a single past the Trojans’ second baseman. Hastings’ varsity softball team split its O-K Gold Conference double header at Thornapple Kellogg High School Tuesday afternoon, winning game two 13-12 in eight innings. The Trojans’ took the day’s opener 10-0 in six innings. Both teams had to battle from behind in the second game. Thornapple Kellogg took a 1210 lead with three runs in the top of the seventh inning. The Trojans were one strike away from sweeping the double header in the bottom of the seventh, but the Saxons’ Erika Rozell drilled a 3-2 pitch to left field, for a single, scoring teammate Katie DeVries. “It wasn’t our best played game this year, we made a lot of errors, but on the positive side, our girls never quit,” said Saxon head coach Doug Griggs. “We were down to our last strike with Erika batting and she drove a single into left field to tie the game up in the bottom of the seventh. It was good to see our girls battle, even though they were down right to the end, and then pull it out in the end. It was a good win for us. We needed it.” A leadoff single by Marissa Adams and a double by DeVries were the other big hits for the Saxons in their seventh inning rally. The Trojans built a quick 5-0 lead in game two, scoring once in the first and four times in the second inning. Hastings, which had just two hits in the first game, found its offense in the second inning of game two, sending 12 batters to the plate and scoring seven runs. The two teams then tacked on runs here and there before the big seventh-inning rallies. “Hastings keyed on our mistakes in the second game,” said TK head coach Andy Saldivar. “We made way too many mistakes in the second game. The infield let us down at key spots that gave them the chance to beat us, then we had to fight back which we had a The Saxons’ Liz Guernsey scores the winning run in the bottom of the eighth inning of game two at Thornapple Kellogg Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) lot of heart to do, but you can’t give up runs like that to win a ball game.” The Saxons had 11 hits in the win, including a home run by Farrah Salazar in the bottom of the fourth inning that put her team up 8-6 at the time. Adams had three singles and scored three runs for the Saxons. Salazar, DeVries and Rozell had two hits each. Rozell drove in three runs and Salazar two. Thornapple Kellogg had 14 hits, including a 4-for-4 performance from Alexis Aspinall. She had a pair of singles, a double, and a triple scoring three runs and driving in two. Lauren Bailey and Paige Lajcak had three hits each for TK, and Erin DeVries, Sandra Gerou and Morgan VanPutten had two each. While the bats were big in game two it was Trojan pitcher Liz Polmanteer who dominated game one. She allowed the Saxons’ just one hit, a single by Adams, while walking two and striking out two. The Saxons had just one runner past second base all game. Lajcak had two singles for the Trojans, two RBI and scored two runs. Gerou added two hits as well. The big inning for the Trojans was the third, as they scored four runs. Kim Hodges drove in two runs in that rally. TK had just seven hits. “The first game was ugly,” said Griggs. “Their pitcher threw well. She threw a good ball game and we didn’t hit her. We only had two hits off her. It was just one of those games. She had our number and we just couldn’t hit the ball off her.” Saldivar said he was especially happy with Polmanteer’s performance because the Trojans have struggled with pitching lately. “We had five pitchers, but three of them went down with injuries. So, we’re just kind of fighting with that,” Saldivar said. The Trojans are now 2-4 in the O-K Gold Conference. Hastings is 3-3. The Saxons return to league action Tuesday at home against South Christian. Before then they’ll be at home against Harper Creek for two games today (April 26) and at the Gull Lake Invitational Saturday. The Saxons split their non-conference double header with Plainwell Wednesday, taking game one 11-2 and falling in game two 8-7. The Saxons are now 8-8 overall. Hastings’ Farrah Salazar bounces the ball towards the left side of the Thornapple Kellogg defense, driving in a run during her team’s seven-run second inning rally in game two at Thornapple Kellogg Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) DK track faces tough KVA test Tuesday The big test is Tuesday for the Panthers. Delton Kellogg’s varsity boys’ track and field team improved to 3-0 in the Kalamazoo Valley Association with an 87-50 victory over visiting Galesburg-Augusta Tuesday. The Delton Kellogg girls also topped the Rams, moving to 2-1 in the league with an 87-44 win. The Panthers host Schoolcraft for a league dual Tuesday. The Eagles were the runners-up to the Delton boys in the KVA last spring, and the Schoolcraft girls took the league championship. Both teams are strong once again. The Delton Kellogg boys were strong in BOWLING SCORES Saxons have their best Gold finish so far at Egypt Valley Sunday Night Mixed ~Final Standings~ You’re Up N Shit 78; Eastsiders 77; street Bowlers 73; Sunday Snoozers 68; Straightliners 65; Sandbaggers 63 1/2; Rollin Olins 58 1/2. Women’s Good Games and Series - S. Vandenburg 223-548; A. Hubbell 176-511; K. Plett 148-380; C. Demott 143-345; K. Becker 190; M. Heath 186; M. Simpson 182; B. Rice 168; J. Healy 150. Men’s Good Games and Series - B. Rentz 204-565; D. McKee 214-551; B. Allen 197527; T. Demott 158-424; R. Snyder 195; J. Shoebridge 178; M. Bassett 177. Sat. Majors (Youth League) ~Final Standings~ Leones 57-35; Strikers 55-37; Zombies 45.5-46.5; Hastings Bowl 45.5-46.5; Whatever 37.5-54.5; Great Balls of Fire 35.556.5. Girls Good Games and Series - L. Wallace 103; C. Roush 143-396. Boys Good Games and Series - K. Kavanagh 144-402; J. Clous 162-378; J. Elliott 119-309; J. Johnson 160-395; T. Cheeseman 139. S A LT S A L E FRIDAY, APRIL 27TH • 8 AM-5 PM SATURDAY, APRIL 28TH • 9 AM-12 NOON SALT Cash & Carry 50-lb. Cube $ 49 SALT ........ 40-lb Rustbuster $ 54 Cube ....... 5 5 x High Purity Water Softener Salt 1-800-852-3098 269-945-5102 Denker Family Owned & Operated ~ Rick Denker, Owner 07598073 OPEN DAILY 8-5; SAT. 9-12 boree and fifth Thursday when the league met for the second time at Egypt Valley. South Christian won Thursday’s jamboree with a score of 159. Catholic Central was second with a 167 followed by Caledonia 168, Forest Hills Eastern 173, Hastings 181, Thornapple Kellogg 204, Wayland 216 and Ottawa Hills NTS. Buehler led Hastings with a 43 and Dylan Thurman added a 44. Hastings also got a 46 from Isgard and a 48 from Barrett. South Christian earned the eight-stroke victory over the Hawks thanks in part to a 36 from Nick VanderHorst and a 37 from Blake DeVries. Headley matched VanderHorst for the day’s best round with a 36 of his own. Thornapple Kellogg got a 44 from Koetsier, a 51 from Kegan Thomas, a 54 from VanSickle and a 55 from Sinclair. Catholic Central was slated to host the league at Quail Ridge Golf Club Wednesday. The O-K Gold gets together again twice next week, at Railside Golf Club Wednesday and at Hastings Country Club Thursday. TK tennis team starts Gold play with 5-3 win over HHS Tax 141 E. Woodlawn Ave. Hastings The Saxons continue to move up the standings. Hastings’ varsity boys’ golf team had its best finish so far this season at an O-K Gold Conference jamboree when it placed fourth at Gracewil Tuesday afternoon. Danny Buehler and Fredrik Isgard both shot a 41 to lead the Saxons. Forest Hills Eastern took the day’s title with a team score of 164. South Christian was second, one stroke back, with a 165 followed by Catholic Central 167, Hastings 169, Caledonia 176, Wayland 179, Thornapple Kellogg 197 and Ottawa Hills NTS. Behind the top two for the Saxons, Taylor Klotz shot a 42 and Logan Barrett a 45. The day’s best rounds were 39s fired by Forest Hills Eastern’s Scott Johnson and Devon Reininger and Catholic Central’s Luke Headley. Thornapple Kellogg was led by Josh VanSickle’s 44. TK also got a 47 from Ben Jazwinski, a 51 from Alex Koetsier and a 55 from Adam Sinclair. Hastings was sixth at the first league jam- Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity girls’ tennis team won three of four three-set matches in its O-K Gold Conference opener with Hastings in Middleville Wednesday, helping the Trojans to a 5-3 win. Second singles player Shannon Hamilton and third singles player Kendall Goosen scored the two Trojan singles victories, with Goosen pulling out a 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 win over Hastings’ Abbey VanDiver. Hamilton scored a 6-4, 6-3 win over Tara Rowe. “We needed out best effort of the year to split the singles points,” said TK head coach Larry Seger. “Hamilton and Goosen really stepped up their games. Hamilton showed much better footwork and more consistency in her ground strokes to win her match. Goosen played very well from the baseline, but added some pressure at the net to win her match.” Hannah Smith took the Saxons’ lone threeset win at first singles, besting Emmie Beckering 3-6, 6-4, 7-5. Sarah Thornburgh added a 6-0, 6-3 win over Hannah Lamberg for the Saxons at fourth singles. “We expected Hastings to have very good singles players with solid doubles teams,” Seger said. “Hastings is always well coached with sound fundamentals. The singles players were very good at all four flights.” The Trojans took three of the four doubles flights to help secure the victory. Carly Noah and Michaela Blain improved to 6-0 on the season at second doubles for TK, topping Erika Krouse and Tess Johnson 6-0, 6-1. “Carly played some great net, while Michaela used some good angle shots the set her partner up at the net. Both served well throughout the match,” Seger said. The other two doubles matches the Trojans won were much closer. TK’s Claudia Dykstra and Hannah Bashore took the first set against Hastings’ Sarah Sleevi and Kelsi Harden 6-1, then had an up and down second set. The Trojan duo took a 4-1 lead, only to see the Saxons win the next five games for a 6-5 edge. Dykstra and Bashore rallied to force a tie-breaker though, and pulled out a 7-6(4) win in the second set. At fourth doubles, the Trojan team of Karley Cisler and Megan Zoet won 6-2, 67(8), 6-4 against Kara Cuncannan and Meg Travis. “This team did a nice job of mixing formations and keeping the ball deep,” Seger said. “Karley served great for most of the match, and both players played much better at the net.” Hastings got its only doubles win at number three, where Emma Anderson and Kaitlyn Allan scored a 6-0, 6-1 win over TK’s Erin Leach and Whitney McCullough. The Trojans suffered their first league loss Monday, as they were downed 8-0 at Forest Hills Eastern. nearly everything that Galesburg-Augusta’s Jesse Ring didn’t compete in Tuesday. Ring won three individual events, and helped the Rams to a victory in the 1600-meter relay, but Galesburg-Augusta only won one other event. Ryan Watson and Zach Haas both had two individual victories for Delton Kellogg. Haas won the 3200-meter run in 11 minutes 25.9 seconds and the 1600 in 5:08.02. Watson took the 800-meter run in 2:06.41 and the high jump by clearing 6 feet. They were both a part of a relay victory as well. They teamed with Tyler Dempsey and Jarryd Calhoun to win the 3200-meter relay in 9:36.96. Brandon Robbins and Adam May contributed to the other two Delton relay victories. They teamed with Dempsey and Gary Egelkraut to win the 800-meter relay in 1:42 and with James Franklin and Connor Wolschleger to win the 400-meter relay in 47.71. Dempsey, May and Wolschleger took one individual win each. May won the 100-meter dash in 11.47, Wolschleger the 200 in 24.5 and Dempsey the 400 in 56.14. Delton Kellogg added a win by Brady Mills in the pole vault. He cleared 10 feet 6 inches, as did teammate Kenny Coates who was second in the event. Brandon Haas won the shot put with a throw of 36-1. Ring helped the Rams to a win in the 1600meter relay after taking the 110-meter high hurdles in 15.68, the 300-meter intermediate hurdles in 42.21 and the long jump at 19-7. GA also had Trammell Orr win the discus with a mark of 112-11.5. Delton Kellogg’s girls only had two wins in the field. Adrianna Culbert is back throwing for the team and took the discus with a mark of 83-5, and teammate Mallory Sewell continued her strong season in the shot put with a mark of 31-3. The Delton girls swept the relays, but didn’t have any competition to run against in three of the four. The team of Sam Cleary, Kristin Mohn, Marcie Stevens and Jolene Drum took the 3200-meter relay in 13:27. Andrea Polley, Nicole Thompson, Drum and Brianna Russell won the 1600-meter relay in 4:41. in the 800-meter relay, Katie Hayward, Polley, Alicia Lindsey and Morgen Leonard finished in 2:12. In the 400-meter relay it was the team of Leonard, Thompson, Hayward and Lindsey winning in 59.97. Polley swept the hurdles for Delton, taking the 100-meter hurdles in 18.38 and the 300meter low hurdles in 53.00. Drum also had two individual wins on the track, finishing the 1600 in 6:41 and the 800 in 2:51. Stevens won the 3200 for Delton in 15:09. Delton Kellogg’s girls were seventh and the boys finished in a tie for sixth place at Friday’s Otsego Lions Relays. The top finish for the Delton boys was a third-place finish in the high jump. The top finish for the Delton Kellogg girls came in the sprint relay, where they were second. St. Joe won the girl’s’ meet with 118 points, followed by Vicksburg 83, Stevensville Lakeshore 80, Otsego 48, Plainwell 46, Allegan 45, Delton Kellogg 32 and Pennfield 4. Otsego and Vicksburg finished tied atop the boys’ team standings with 95 points each. St. Joe was third with 82 points, followed by Lakeshore 62, Allegan 58, Delton Kellogg 32, Plainwell 32 and Pennfield 8. The Delton teams will be a part of the Bath relays Friday. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-05-03.pdf 844e1a6bfcb56a82ee56eda67a9bb5fb PDF Text Text Land use gets attention of county board Judge Fisher salutes Liberty Bell winner Hastings girls win Bath relays See Story on Page 2 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 17 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 18 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, May 3, 2012 Fred Jacobs receives NEWS BRIEFS the Liberty Bell Award Music showcase to feature returning act Luke Lenhart Family and Friends will be featured at the Community Music Showcase at 6:45 p.m. Thursday, May 3, at the Thomas Jefferson Hall, 328 S. Jefferson St., Hastings. Luke Lenhart is known in the area for blending bluegrass music with that of groups such as the Beatles, the Byrds and more. “Last time we the group, Luke had a wonderful response,” said showcase coordinator Steve Reid. Showcase concerts are free of charge although a freewill offerings are accepted. Area museums offering free tours this weekend Two museums in Barry County and three more just beyond the county lines will be part of next weekend’s four-county, 21-museum free-admission Spring into the Past tour. Sponsored by the Tri-River Network, formed in 2002 as a support group for area museums, the tour will promote museum visits from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, May 5 and 6. Local museums include Historic Charlton Park and the Freeport Historical Society Museum. Nearby participating museums are the Bowne Township schoolhouse and carriage shed and the Lake Odessa Depot complex. In addition, the Clarksville/Campbell Historical Society’s display case will be featured in Papa C’s Pizza shop. Information is available at each of the museums or online at www.charltonpark.org. by David DeDecker Staff Writer The historic Barry County Circuit Court room overflowed with community dignitaries on May 2 to celebrate the age-old tradition of Law Day and present a community leader with the annual Liberty Bell Award. Judge Amy McDowell presided over the gathering which included Michigan’s Attorney General Bill Schuette and the award winner, Fred Jacobs of J-Ad Graphics - publisher of nine community newspapers. McDowell welcomed everyone to the celebration and reminded everyone what the rule of law means to democracy, to personal rights, and to the freedom we all hold dear. Law Day has now been celebrated for 55 years nationwide. “Law Day gives us the tools to build citizenship and a shared concept of Justice,” said McDowell. AG Schuette was introduced by Barry County Prosecutor Tom Evans. Schuette spoke about his experiences as judge on the Michigan Court of Appeals and as Attorney General. He told attendees his main responsibility as AG is to enforce the law and protect the Constitution. Schuette said his prime responsibilty is for public safety and the advocacy of law enforcement. “I must make sure that there are more cops and tougher laws, so our communities are safe, sound and secure,” said Schuette. “that our schools are places of learning not violence, and your streets and neighborhoods are safe.” Attorney Robert Byington addressed the packed room as President of the Barry County Bar Association. Byington explained the See LIBERTY BELL, page 7 Experts discuss environmental concerns linked to fracking by David DeDecker Staff Writer More than 200 citizens gathered at Pierce Cedar Creek Institute Tuesday night for an educational meeting focused on the topic of oil and gas leases and the mineral extraction process known as fracking. The residents were joined by camera crews from area television stations, newspaper reporters, community leaders, health department officials and Barry County commissioners. The leasing issue has boiled over in Barry County where, reportedly, 160 private land leases have been signed and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources is putting up all the county’s state land for auction May 8. The DNR will be auctioning off 108,000 acres of Michigan owned land. Leases for more than 23,000 acres — or nearly one-fifth of the state land in the auction — are in Barry County. Citizens are gathering all over the county. Two meetings have been held at Circle Pines near Gun Lake, with more than 130 people attending. Orangeville Township saw 50 to 75 people its monthly board meeting Tuesday during which fracking was discussed, and another meeting was scheduled for Wednesday night in Middleville. The top concern of many participants at the Pierce meeting was what leases mean, and how can Barry County protect its environment from potential disaster. The process of well fracking has caused many environmental and health hazards throughout the United States. “I thought it was a very good session, and I believe we accomplished our goal,” said PCCI Executive Director Michelle Skedgell, “We provided valuable information to attendees so they can weigh the aspects of oil and gas leasing and formulate their own opinion. As people left the event, many stopped to thank me for the evening, saying they appreciated the opportunity to hear more. I think Barry County and its concerned citizens brought, and will continue to bring, attention to what is going on with the leasing of mineral rights.” Speakers for the PCCI session included Mike Shelton, a geologist with the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality; Susan Harley, a lawyer and Michigan policy director from the advocacy group Clean Water Action; Democrats plan caucus, meeting and Curtis Talley, an experienced landowner negotiator for mineral rights leasing. Talley currently works for Michigan State University Extension. Shelton works for the DEQ’s Office of Oil, Gas and Minerals which oversees drilling permits and the drilling process. He made the case for regulatory oversight and said Michigan is recognized for its stringent regulations concerning environmental protection. Permitting and oversight by the DEQ includes aspects such as well site selection, isolation distances, soil erosion and control, well casing and sealing, blowout prevention programs, lined water reserve pits, water management and site restoration. The DEQ also oversees flowline pressure testing, groundwater monitoring, response and remediation of spills and secondary containment plans. During his presentation, Shelton educated the group on the geology of Michigan and the specific steps his department takes to ensure proper well construction. He spoke of wells being drilled vertically, in some cases to 9,000 feet, then horizontally for up to a mile. He told participants the change from vertical to horizontal drilling may curve slowly through rock for up to a half-mile before being truly horizontal. A well site is large and is typically encompasses acres of land, not including roads for the many trucks which come and go to the site. Fracking has been happening in Michigan since 1952, said Shelton, and there are more than 12,000 wells in the upper Lower Peninsula. Those wells took three to four stages to construct and used approximately 40,000 to 100,000 gallons of water. The new process for fracked wells consists of 15 stages of construction, using up to 6.7 million gallons of water per well. Shelton also said the drilling of a well would mean withdrawing 100,000 gallons per day for months. The most common environmental issues with drilling, said Shelton, are the migration of gas or fracture fluids; identification of chemical additives to the fracturing liquids; management of the “flow back” water; surface spills; and water usage. He said the DEQ is doing everything in its power to address those five issues. Harley began her presentation by explaining the importance of water, especially in the state of Michigan. She told the participants that the state is defined by its water and proclaimed that Michigan citizens are the guardians of more than 20 percent of the world’s useable freshwater. Industries rely on See FRACKING, page 2 Hastings Area Schools director of finance resigns A Democratic presidential caucus is planned Saturday, May 5, at the Thomas Jefferson Hall, 328 S. Jefferson St., Hastings. Registration begins at 9 and the caucus at 11 a.m. The Barry County Democratic Committee will meet Saturday, May 12, at 9 a.m. with two candidates for the 3rd Congressional District attending at 10 a.m.. Steve Pestka and Trevor Thomas are running for the seat currently held by Justin Amash. Girls’ Night Out returns to Hastings May 10 The Hastings Downtown Business Team, a committee of the Barry County Chamber of Commerce and the Hastings Downtown Development Authority, will host Girls’ Night Out in downtown Hastings Thursday, May 10. The event will begin at 5 p.m. and feature area merchants and restaurants offering discounts, give-aways and menu and drink specials. Attendees will also have the opportunity to enter a prize drawing. Businesses interested in participating in Girls’ Night Out may download a registration form on the chamber’s website, www.mibarry.com. For more information, call the Barry County Chamber of Commerce, 269-945-2454. The Fred Jacobs family gathered to celebrate its patriach receiving the 2012 Liberty Bell Award (front from left) Abby Larabee and Emilie Yonker (middle) Carrie Larabee, Nick Larabee, Fred Jacobs, Patti Jacobs, Jennie Yonker, Kristina Laux and Jonathon Jacobs (back) Dave Yonker and Jason Larabee. ‘The Music Man Jr.’ opens tomorrow in Nashville Lakewood eighth grader Sam McNeill, as Harold Hill, tells the crowd there’s going to be a boys band during rehearsal for the upcoming Revue production of “The Music Man Jr.” The show, which opens this weekend, will be on stage Fridays at 7, Saturdays and 3 and 7, and Sundays at 3 p.m. through May 12. More than 70 local children are taking part in the production at Main Street Theatre in downtown Nashville. Seats may be reserved by calling 517-749-1229 or email therevue1@yahoo.com. Doors open 30 minutes before curtain. Tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for students and those 62 and up, and $5 for children 12 and under. The theater, which has air conditioning, concessions and free parking, is at 301 N. Main St., Nashville; guests should use the side entrance. by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Citing job stress, Hastings Area Schools Director of Finance Barbara Hunt has resigned from her post after 12 years with the district. Hunt has been employed by the district since 2000 when she was hired as a business manager. A letter from Hunt dated April 27 reads, “Please accept this as my resignation from the director of finance position with the Hastings Area School System. “It has been a difficult decision, but the stress of the job has made it necessary for me to terminate my employment with the district.” In an email to the Banner, Hunt said there was nothing more behind her resignation than job-related stress becoming detrimental to her well-being and asked for privacy regarding personal matters. “Barb Hunt has been a longtime employee of Hastings Area Schools and will be missed,” said Hastings Area Schools Board of Education President Kevin Beck. “We wish her the best in all her future endeavors.” Hastings Area Schools Interim Superintendent Michelle Falcon agreed. “Barb Hunt, our finance director has resigned her position to pursue other opportunities,” Falcon said. “Barb has been a loyal and dedicated employee of the Hastings Area School System for over 12 years. We are working together to develop a transition plan so we can continue to work on our budget Barb Hunt development and ensure continued business services to our organization. On behalf of the board of education, we wish her good luck in her future endeavors.” In February, the board approved a contract of approximately $22,680 with Don Sovey of Charlotte, owner of School and Municipal Advisory Services, for assistance with the district’s budgeting process. Sovey, a CPA, began working with the district Feb. 23 and is expected to serve as a consultant for the district for an estimated 168 hours. �Page 2 — Thursday, May 3, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Land planning, fracking get attention of Barry County commissioners by Doug VanderLaan Editor Paper or plastic? That’s how Commissioner Ben Geiger framed discussion at Tuesday’s Barry County Board of Commissioners meeting regarding the long-simmering issue of amending the agricultural preservation ordinance to include a new open space preservation ordinance. “Whether it’s one ordinance or two, I really don’t care either way,” said Geiger of combining the two ordinances or considering them as separate from each other. “It’s about the words on the ordinance and it’s very frustrating to sit here and have this argument whether you want paper or plastic.” Frustrations are apparently also building on another issue about which the commission again heard from several county residents during the meeting’s public comment period. Though no commissioner responded directly to the warnings, urgings and concerns expressed regarding oil and gas companies positioning for hydraulic fracturing rights on both private and state land in Barry County, Commission Chair Craig Stolsonburg did say at the conclusion of Tuesday’s meeting that he and County Administrator Michael Brown have been in consultation regarding the retention of an expert for advice on how the county can respond to the controversy. The response to Tuesday’s land use discussion was more clear and direct. On a unanimous vote, the commission directed its agriculture preservation board to draw up two separate proposed ordinances — one, a revised and updated agriculture preservation ordinance and the other a new, open space preservation ordinance — for future consideration. The unanimous vote did not mean complete agreement. Stolsonburg positioned the discussion by questioning the need for an open space preservation agreement, citing his distribution to all commissioners of an email recounting his discussion with former Commissioner Bob Wenger, who served at the time the original agriculture preservation ordinance was passed. “The original intent was to protect foodproducing parcels of land,” said Stolsonburg. “The [open space] ordinance is to prevent against development. If I’m a developer, open space is the last type of land I’m going to develop. You have to go through all the DEQ regulations; you can’t just divide up and start building on open space. “A developer is not going to look at open space, so I don’t understand why we need to allow development rights to be bought when they won’t be developed anyway.” Commissioner Jeff VanNortwick, who has sparred directly and publicly with Stolsonburg in the past on this issue, was quick to take up the opposing view. “With all due respect, Craig, I think you have to be a little bit less biased on how you present,” said VanNortwick. “I have a little bit of an issue with the chairman making those kinds of statements at the beginning of a discussion that’s definitely needed. “Secondly, I do believe that open space does have merit, especially in this county. [Agriculture Preservation Board Chair] Larry Neil has sent an email out that counters what Mr. Wenger says about cost. The open space ordinance is not going to be funded, has never been funded by the state or federal government. Its intent is to preserve the natural features of what comes forward in our community. “I don’t see where we’re stepping on anybody’s toes when we add open space to an ordinance that’s already there. We’re putting tools in place for the county for future years.” Neil reiterated Van Nortwick’s concerns for the future in a philosophical exchange with Stolsonburg that began with Neil suggesting that an open space ordinance would offer some criteria on which to judge acceptable parcels to the program. “Isn’t the board qualified to do that?” asked Stolsonburg. “Maybe you are,” responded Neil, “but what about those who follow you?” When Commissioner Robert Houtman asked if those criteria could be in a separate open space ordinance, Neil assured the board that either way could work. Commissioner Joe Lyons continued to hold out for assurances that, by adopting an open space preservation, the commission would not be obligating the county to any expense. “I don’t want to come back like other programs that grow these tentacles and all of a sudden things are being applied to it,” said Lyons. “I’m not against this, but I haven’t seen a good, solid plan. I’m not voting yes on anything that I don’t know what it costs or have a good idea — and I just think that’s fair.” After Lyons and fellow commissioners received assurances that the documents to be returned to them would contain detailed cost analyses, the motion to direct the agriculture preservation board to prepare an amended agriculture preservation ordinance and a separate open space preservation ordinance was passed on a 6-2 vote with commissioners Don Nevins and VanNortwick voting in the minority. In other action, the board: • Recommended to next week’s official meeting of the board, the appointment of Hope Township resident Joyce Snow to fill an unexpired citizen-at-large term on the parks and recreation board. Vermontville resident Blair Miller also applied but, due to his status as an Eaton County resident, Miller’s candidacy was denied. Miller received positive comments of support from audience members Jim DeYoung and Rick Moore, both members of the parks and recreation board, who cited Miller’s passionate and effective work on behalf of the Paul Henry Thornapple Trail and Maple Valley Greenways, projects shared by both Eaton and Barry counties. “We have to pick a citizen-at-large and you are not a citizen [of Barry County],” said Geiger. “We would welcome you to move to Barry County.” • Received notice from DeYoung that he is a candidate for election to the board of commissioners, representing District 6. DeYoung, a resident of Yankee Springs Township, is the former administrator of Thornapple Manor. • Recommended approval of final subcontracts for addition work at Thornapple Manor. After re-bidding work on flooring and mechanical contracts, construction managers and Thornapple Manor Administrator Don Haney have aligned construction costs with the $6 million estimate for the project. • Recommended approval of $8,899 to supplement a federal grant of $4,250 to send an eight-member drug court team, District Court Judge Michael Schipper and Circuit Court Judge Amy McDowell to a San Diego training session leading to the establishment of a district court treatment drug court. The proposed district drug court would be modeled after the circuit adult treatment drug court headed by McDowell. • Recommended the re-appointment of Jack Miner and Michael Barney to the Barry County Planning Commission and of Joyce Snow to serve the remainder of a term to expire April, 30, 2013. • Recommended approval of the 2013 budget calendar planning process culminating in an October public hearing and subsequent budget approval request. • Recommended approval of a current budget amendment to align general fund expenditures with adjustments to the prosecutor, equalization and medical examiner budgets. • Recommended approval of changes to the defined-benefit retirement packages of county courthouse employees and sheriff command officers, increasing employee contributions to the plan by 2.5 percent as addressed by collective bargaining agreements effective May 1. The next board of commission meeting will be Tuesday, May 8, in the commissioners meeting room at the Barry County Courthouse beginning at 9 a.m. FRACKING, continued from page 1 production. What is at stake in Michigan, according to Harley, is the overuse of water and the possibility of water pollution. The disclosure of chemicals used in fracking water is underregulated, according to Clean Water Action. Air pollution and habitat damage are also concerns, she said. Clean Water Action is advocating on the state level for a public notice-and-comment period before a permit is issued for a well. Additional issues, such as compulsory pooling of land for drilling purposes and leasing fraud must be addressed on local, state and federal levels she said. Harley’s organization has also been working on a package of five state bills that address oil and gas exploration, specifically fracking oversight and water protection. The bills to watch are HB5149, HB5150, HB5151, HB4736 and HB5565. The third speaker, Talley, has worked all over the U.S., but now works in Lansing for the MSUE. He spoke about what landowners should expect when they are approached with a oil and gas lease and informed of their rights. He said landowners can learn from others’ experiences and become educated on their options to make informed, confident decisions. Talley said fracking is used to extract natural gas, but the price of natural gas has dropped nearly 646 percent. “The U.S. is awash in natural gas,” he said. Hastings students compete in national leadership conference Seven Hastings High School students attended the Business Professionals of America 46th national leadership conference, “Reach New Heights,” in Chicago April 25 to 29. Hastings BPA chapter members Damon Cove, Victoria Fueri, Lindy Kloosterman, Alyssa Larsen, Christine Maurer, Hannah Smith and Cindy Tebo joined more than 5,500 other students and advisors from across the nation to participate in general sessions with keynote speakers, business meetings, leadership workshops, contests, election of national officers and tours of Chicago, with sites such as Navy Pier, John Hancock Building, NBC studios, Willis Tower, the Magnificent Mile, Shedd Aquarium and the Museum of Science and Industry. A highlight of the conference was the celebration for students that took place Saturday on Navy Pier. The Hastings Business Professionals chapter brought home seven top 20 finishers, as well as 18 of the top 50 finishers in each of their respective events. Senior Hannah Smith placed 17th in “Inventories are the highest ever.” He said companies will do all they can to extend leases for generations, sitting in control of the property until gas prices go up and the land becomes profitable for drilling. Talley told the audience leasing is a choice and warned property owners not to sign if there are any questions. “It’s too late after the lease is signed,” he said. Talley told landowners they need to be a fully informed negotiators — price makers not price takers — and to be “tough as nails.” He also spoke of the many terms, costs, rightof-way and damage agreements, along with the psychology involved in the leasing process. Talley ended by telling the people to do their homework, put on a negotiator hat and ask questions. “We addressed a very emotional topic, but we made sure it was done with education as the goal,” concluded Skedgell. “We should have the DVD [of the presentations] soon and will get that out. It will run on our cable access channel and probably be available in the libraries.” For more information on Clean Water Action, call 517-203-0754. For information on mineral rights and leases, visit www.msue.msu.edu/oilandgas or www.michigan.gov and search for the Office of Oil, Gas and Minerals. advanced accounting, and junior Christine Maurer placed 31st in banking and finance. Alyssa Larsen, Cindy Tebo, Lindy Kloosterman and Victoria Fueri all placed in the top 20 of parliamentary procedure concepts, which had more than 400 competitors. Christine Maurer, Lindy Kloosterman and Damon Cove placed in the top 50 of financial math and analysis which involved more than 430 competitors. Several individuals and businesses helped defray the cost of the trip, including Flexfab Horizons International; Walker, Fluke and Sheldon; Hastings Fiberglass; Hastings City Bank; and Hastings Mutual Insurance Company. Business Professionals of America is the leading career technical student organization for students pursuing careers in business management, accounting and finance, information technology and other related career fields. To find out more about the organization, visit www.bpa.org. The local chapter advisors are business teachers Tracy George and Andrew Mains. Barry County Youth Leadership Summit receives $1,500 grant The Pennock Foundation Board of Directors recently granted $1,500 to support the Barry County Youth Leadership Summit. The summit brings together teens from Delton Kellogg, Hastings, Lakewood, Maple Valley and Thornapple Kellogg school districts to tackle issues such as prejudice, bullying, alcohol and drugs. The goal of the summit, sponsored by the Youth Advisory Council of the Barry Community Foundation, is to empower youths to have impact in their schools and communities as they raise awareness about crucial teen issues. “We are pleased to be able to provide this grant to benefit the youth summit,” said Janine Dalman, executive director of the More than 200 people gather at Pierce Cedar Creek Institute Tuesday evening to learn about oil and gas leases. Oil and gas companies have been a growing force in Barry County over the past several months. the resource, she said. Tourism brings in $17.2 billion a year. Agriculture amounts to $73.1 billion a year and fishing is an annual $2 billion industry in Michigan. Harley went on to explain that the state legislature has a constitutional duty to protect Michigan’s natural resources. According to a 2011 U.S. Congressional report, 750 chemicals and compounds are used in fracking, she said; 29 of those are known to cause cancer or other serious health issues. Wastewater from the fracking process is disposed of by permanently injecting it into the deep wells. She said Michigan is being looked at for storing fracking liquids from other states; Pennsylvania fracking waste is now being shipped into Ohio and stored. Harley went on to tell the audience about the need to talk to local, state and federal representatives about oversight. She said fracking, for the most part, has been exempted from major federal environmental laws such as the Safe Drinking Water Act. In some cases, diesel fuel is pumped into wells to aid in the fracking process. Diesel fuel is exempt in this case, she said. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is currently in the process of studying fracking, but does not expect to reach a decision until 2015, she added. On a state level, Harley said the DEQ has had huge reductions in budget and staffing over the past decade, which she expects to leave the state unprepared for the boom in gas Hastings High School Business Professionals of America Advisor Andrew Mains (holding daughter), is joined by BPA students (from left) Lindy Kloosterman, Christine Maurer, Damon Cove, Alyssa Larsen, Victoria Fueri and Cindy Tebo as the group stops for a photo next to Cloud Gate, a sculpture at Chicago’s Millenium Park. Pennock Foundation. “It is our hope that this program will encourage students to make healthy decisions and influence their peers to do the same.” The mission of the Pennock Foundation is to improve the health of our community and provide ongoing financial support for Pennock Health Services and health-related outreach. Since its inception in 1986, the Pennock Foundation has granted more than $4.1 million toward improving health care in local communities. For more information about the foundation, call 269-945-3651 or email jdalman@pennockhealth.com. DNR to offer lease rights at May 8 auction The Michigan Department of Natural Resources will offer state-owned oil and gas lease rights to more than 108,000 acres in 23 counties at a May 8 auction in Lansing. Included in the May 8 offerings are stateowned oil and gas lease rights for more than 23,000 acres in the Yankee Springs Recreation Area and other property in Barry County. All of the offerings in Barry County have been classified for leasing as “nondevelopment.” Nondevelopment leases do not allow for drilling or development on the surface of the land. Detailed information regarding location of the nominated parcels can be found at http://tinyurl.com/72dshnc or by calling 517-373-7663. Oil and gas lease auctions routinely occur in the spring and in the fall. Proceeds from state-owned mineral lease rights go toward the purchase of land for public use, maintenance and upgrade of state and local parks or the care of state fishery and wildlife habitat. Oral bids may be submitted by individuals of legal age (18 years old or older) or by a partnership, corporation or other legal entity qualified to do business in Michigan. Prospective bidders should be prepared to submit proof of their status at the time of registration. The total bonus for all lease rights that receive successful bids must be paid at the time of checkout. The bonus is the amount bid for the privilege of leasing. Prospective bidders who do not have an established credit rating through prior leasing of state-owned minerals must pay at least one-half of the total bonus bid by cash, certified check, cashier’s check or money order. A credit rating may be established by filing three letters of reference — one must be from a bank — with the DNR Minerals Management Section. Leasing mineral rights is the first step a company takes in exploring for oil and gas. A lease from the DNR does not by itself grant permission to drill a well. If a lessee chooses to pursue development of the oil and gas rights, separate written permissions — including a drilling permit from the Department of Environmental Quality — must be obtained prior to drilling. The lease of oil and gas rights do not automatically mean a well will be drilled, and the drilling of a well does not always result in commercial amounts of oil or gas. The DEQ’s Office of Oil, Gas and Minerals regulates drilling and completion of oil and gas wells. The DEQ enforces a set of regulations designed to protect Michigan’s resources from potential negative impacts from drilling and completing wells. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 3, 2012 — Page 3 Saxon Science Olympiad team finishes season The Hastings High School Science Olympiad team concluded its 2012 season at the state finals April 28 at Michigan State University, vying against the best 48 teams that qualified from the 15 regions of the state. The competition was very tough, said Advisor Marty Buehler. Grand Haven High School won the State Title and Stevenson High School was runner-up. Both will represent the state of Michigan at the national championships May 18 and 19 at the University of Central Florida in Orlando. The Saxons finished 21st out of the finals field of 48 teams, and fourth among Class B schools. The best Class B school was Grand Rapids Christian, followed by Detroit Country Day, Fowlerville and Hastings. The Saxons were first in their regional competition March 17 at Western Michigan University, beating all 10 teams in their region, including Hamilton and Portage Central. At the state meet, Hastings finished just ahead of Hamilton Saturday but was bested by Portage Central. Medals are awarded to the top six finishers in each event. Hastings medalists were Joey Longstreet and Ian Beck in the overall science knowledge event called technical problem solving. Tom Peurach and Braxton Prill medaled in the aeronautical engineering event called helicopters. Both pairs finished fifth. Brothers Alex and Marshall Cherry lost a tie-breaker for sixth place medals in the forestry event, and Tom Peurach also barely missed a medal in the engineering event called tower building, with a seventh place finish. The 23 events Science Olympiad events cover almost all areas or fields of science and technology. Some contests are in the form of written exams, while others test the function, speed, accuracy or ability of a prepared machine or vehicle. In the other events the Saxons finished as follows: Anatomy and physiology — Sarah Thornburgh and Alie Porter, 31st. Astronomy: Sarah Thornburgh and Peter Beck, 38th. Chemistry lab — Joey Longstreet and Abby Campbell, 17th. Disease detective — Megan Denny and Jenna Nedbalek, 17th. Dynamic planet — Kaitlan Allan and Abby Campbell, 31st. Experimental design — Joey Longstreet, Megan Denny and Jenna Nedbalek, 35th. Fermi questions — Ian Beck and Joey Longstreet, 32nd. Forensics — Megan Denny and Kelsi Harden, 25th. Gravity vehicle — Sarah Thornburgh and Naomi VanDien, 40th. Microbe mission — Megan Denny and Jenna Nedbalek, 11th. Optics — Alex Cherry and Jenna Nedbalek, 27th. Protein modeling — Joey Longstreet, Jenna Nedbalek and Sarah Thornburgh, 21st. Remote sensing — Kaitlan Allan and Ian Beck, 37th. Robot arm — Braxton Prill and Marshall Cherry, 11th. Rocks and minerals — Kelsi Harden and Naomi VanDien, 28th. Sounds of Music — Marshall Cherry and Megan Denny, 26th. Thermodynamics — Abby Campbell and Sarah Thornburgh, 25th. Water quality — Peter Beck and Alie Porter, 22nd. Write It, Do it: Megan Denny and Joey Longstreet, 37th. Green Generation Trial Event — Dakota Gaskill and Avery Lomas, 18th. The team was sponsored this year by the Hastings Education Enrichment Foundation. Welcoming Barry County Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours participants are YMCA Executive Director Tom Wilt (left) and Program Director Ryan Rose. YMCA to host business after hours The Barry County Chamber of Commerce will have its monthly Business After Hours event at the YMCA’s Camp Algonquin Thursday, May 10, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Camp Algonquin is at 2055 Iroquois Trail five miles from Hastings. The adventure courses will be open to enhance team-building and networking opportunities. “Being a part of the chamber creates trust, and our event at Camp Algonquin will take that trust to a new level through our participation in the adventure courses,” said Valerie Byrnes, chamber president. “It is not mandatory to participate in the courses, but please come out to cheer on those that are willing. It will be a fun-filled event, giving our business and community leaders a first-hand taste of the camping experience at Camp Algonquin.” Camp Algonquin has more than 60 years of tradition. Participants from early years now send their children and grandchildren to camp so they may develop the same values and create memories. The camp incorporates the YMCA core values of caring, respect, responsibility and honesty as a part of each activity and relationship. “We are thrilled to host the business leaders of our community to Camp Algonquin,” said Tom Wilt, executive director. “There is such a rich history with the camp dating back to 1946 and thousands of children and families being a part of its tradition. I am sure many attending the business after hours will enjoy the outdoor setting and will probably have a bit of the camp’s history to share with the group. The best ‘camp story’ stands to win a prize.” Attendees of the business after hours event will be entered in a drawing for a door prize of $25 in Chamber Barry Bucks, which can be spent at more than Chamber member businesses throughout the county. Please RSVP to Lynn Hatfield at 269-945-2454 or email lynn@mibarry.com to attend the event May 10. The business after hours gatherings are the second Thursday of every month from 4:30 to 6 p.m. The June 14 event will be at the Gun Lake Casino. For a complete schedule of future events, visit the chamber’s website, www.mibarry.com/tourism/calendar. Delton addresses education issues through conversation Joey Longstreet (left) and Ian Beck earn fifth place medals in the technical problem solving contest. Braxton Prill (left) and Tom Peurach prepare their entry in the helicopter event. The pair took fifth in the state. by David DeDecker Staff Writer The second of four local community conversations on education took place at the Delton District Library Thursday, April 26. The meeting was open to all concerned citizens — students, teachers, parents and the general public. The forum, supported by the Barry County Hometown Partnership, was intended to give citizens an opportunity to share their ideas and desires for the future of Michigan education. The Center for Michigan facilitated the conversation. Each participant received a remote response card for inputting answers, and participants were asked to cast votes on a variety of topics. The Center will tally votes during the 250 statewide forums and use the information to advocate for better education in Michigan. The goals of the statewide effort is to expand citizenship knowledge on educational opportunities in the state, gather perspectives and preferences in education reform and policy, amplify the voices of Michigan citizens and urge state decision-makers to follow recommendations derived from the conversations and encourage citizens to become more involved in the state’s educational process. The Delton conversation welcomed 12 participants who spoke from their experiences as educators, parents, residents and members of the workforce. The conversation was lively, with each participant respectfully sharing ideas and opinions on student success and the future of Michigan’s elementary to high school education system. Many participants discussed the challenges and disappointments they feel with Michigan’s current education system, as well as ideas for improving the system to best prepare youths for a global economy. Three main concerns were voiced. Participants agreed teachers are pressured to move kids along through the system. The “gutting” of public education by legislators was mentioned, as well as the perception it is slowly destroying public schools, especially in rural districts where schools are the communities’ centers. The third major concern was the challenge of getting parents more involved. A penalty for uninvolved parents was suggested. Curriculum and teaching were the main discussion points. Some participants said holding teachers accountable should be through interaction, not just standardized testing. Several people said teachers are blamed for what’s going on in students’ home lives, but that children need to be more accountable for their own success. “You can blame teachers and parents, but some kids just refuse to learn, and the teachers get raked over the coals,” said one citizen. Others shared their dislike of a one-sizefits-all curriculum. They talked of trades skills being needed in communities and schools not focusing on kids who might benefit from vocational schools or classes. Delton participants said there were many admirable aspects to their local school district. “The programs that are going on that are positive for the kids have good results here locally — an example is Odyssey of the Mind,” said one participant. One person noted a positive difference in homework due to teacher training and a new curriculum. Success centers and more oneon-one time were positive aspects of Delton Kellogg schools. Advanced Placement classes at the high school impressed some participants, given the size of the district; students get college credit for these classes. Participants were asked to address ideas for improving student learning. Topics included expansion of early childhood and pre-school education, changing the school calendar, reducing class sizes, increasing school choice and expanding online learning. Many people said they wanted more money put into educating parents and early childhood learning. “We need to re-evaluate our education paradigms. We’re operating on a system that was developed in the early 1900s,” responded one person. “Many students know what they are learning is irrelevant, then they’re not engaged.” Others spoke of the need to bring decisions back to a local level. They discussed how one great teacher makes a difference and the need to focus on engagement in learning — not just the curriculum. Most agreed that students can learn many things about their community that aren’t taught in school, such as making food or making furniture. A suggestion was made to get business people more involved and create apprenticeships to get more kids involved in the success of the community. “When students graduate, they have more than a degree, but trade certificate, as well. Everyone who graduates has saleable skills right out of high school and aren’t marginalized,” said one participant. The first local community forum was in Nashville April 10; and Middleville was to host the third forum Wednesday, May 2. The fourth and final discussion will be in Hastings at the Barry County Enrichment Center (former Presbyterian church) Thursday, May 10, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. “I had a great time at the education forum last week in Delton,” said organizer and Hastings Public Library Administrator Evelyn Holzwarth. “It was a small but mighty group with lots of conversation; another example that together we will figure out how best to proceed.” Interested participants in the upcoming conversation are urged to register at least five days prior to the forum at www.ymcaofbarrycounty.org. For more information on The Center for Michigan, visit the website www.thecenterformichigan.net. 77567509 RSVP through: Barry County YMCA Voice: 269-945-4574 Website: www.YMCAofBarryCounty.org (education forum tab) Education Matters – Attend a Community Conversation that will focus on K-12 Education for Michigan Schools! As a parent, business owner, student or interested community member you are encouraged to attend! The Center for Michigan will facilitate in partnership with: LIVE UNITED Barry County United Way & Volunteer Center Dates and Places of Upcoming Meetings May 10 Barry Community Enrichment Center (231 S. Broadway) 5:30pm - 7pm For more information, visit: www.TheCenterForMichigan.net/Community �Page 4 — Thursday, May 3, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Jacobs wins Liberty Bell Award The Barry County Bar Association held its annual Law Day celebration yesterday at the historic Barry County Courthouse, and Fred Jacobs of J-Ad Graphics was recognized and honored with the Liberty Bell Award. The Liberty Bell Award is given by bar associations across the country to recognize outstanding service to our legal system by a non-lawyer, and in Barry County many prominent local leaders have received this honor over the years. I was asked to write this column because the recipient of this year’s award is its usual author. I gladly accepted the assignment, and decided to resist the temptation to respond to past barbs from Fred and stick to the facts. The fact is, Fred has been a great community leader since we graduated together from Hastings High School in 1968, and he is a worthy recipient of this honor. The list of his contributions to Hastings and Barry County is long and impressive. He helped his family build a business that started with a small weekly paper, and has grown to an organization that owns nine newspapers with a circulation of over 145,000 households each week, in nine different counties. J-Ad Graphics also does commercial printing all across the state, and prints for more than 30 other weekly publications in Michigan, Ohio and Indiana. J-Ad Graphics provides jobs for more than 100 employees. Clearly, Fred has been a very successful entrepreneur. The Jacobs family has done a great job of expanding the small business that was started years ago by Mel and Alice Jacobs. Fred’s civic contributions and achievements are impressive. He has served as president of the Hastings Rotary Club, chair of the Barry Community Foundation, president of the chamber of commerce, chair of the Barry County Economic Development Alliance and president of the Community Papers of Michigan. He has also been a member of many other boards and committees, including the Barry County Futuring Committee and Barry County Healthcare Alliance. Those who appreciate music also know him to be a gifted singer. Fred has been a leader in all of these civic organizations and has always been a tireless and enthusiastic promoter of Did you see that trilliums, which normally bloom around Mother’s Day, have been brightly dotting the ground of local woodlots and forests for the past few weeks? The trillium is a protected flower in Michigan, and along with May apples and Jack-in-the-pulpit, it’s a pretty good indicator that morel mushrooms can be found. We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. We’ll select a photograph for publication each week and post the others to our website for all to enjoy. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Do you know? Do you recognize any of these men apparently making music with waterfilled glass bottle and recorder-type instruments? Do you know why the photo was taken or when? Was it some type of promotion? What can you tell us about this photo? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event to reunite the photos with their original clippings or identify photos that may never have been used. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@j-adgraphics.com; or call 269-9459554. Last week’s photo of several women on a merry-go-round wearing party hats drew no response or explanations. If you have information on the photo, please contact us. Have you What do you Last week’s question: Gov. Rick Snyder recently rescinded the law requiring motorcyclists to wear helmets. Good idea? met? Patricia Johns is a familiar face in the Middleville area, not only as a former reporter for the Sun and News newspaper, but also as an active community and school volunteer. Johns worked for J-Ad Graphics for 12 years before retiring in November for medical reasons that prevented her from driving. She is now able to drive again and says she’s had no trouble finding things to do and ways to stay active. She is enjoying her retirement with her husband, Michael Gormley, and visiting their daughter Elena, who will soon receive a master’s degree. Patricia’s been working with the Barry Community Foundation, recently volunteered with the Thornapple Woodpecker Festival and is continuing to work with youths through Barry County 4-H and the children’s garden. She’s taken advantage of her time away from work to take a trip to Texas to visit family and complete a 300-mile Hill Country tour on a tandem bicycle with her husband. Patricia hopes to be able to do some more traveling throughout the country. But, she says, Barry County will always be home. “I like the people who live here and all they do to make it a better place for our families,” she says. “Barry County is full of possibilities, and I really want to see people work together to make it a better community for everyone.” love deeply. Best thing about retirement: Having time to be with my husband -- and not going to meetings. If I could meet anyone, it would be: President Obama. If I won the lottery: I would pay Elena’s college loans, give Michael some money for vacations and work around the house and make donations to charities. Favorite quote or saying: Do good work. Favorite cartoon character: Doonesbury If I were president, I’d . . . Make sure we concentrate on “peace on Earth.” If I went back to school, I’d study . . . More Latin and Greek. If I could live anywhere else . . . it’d be somewhere by the ocean. Stress relief: Riding the tandem with Michael. Patricia Johns Favorite book: Usually the one I am reading. Right now I’m celebrating the 50th anniversary of Madeline L’Engle’s A Wrinkle in Time. Favorite song: Anything by Gershwin. Best advice ever received: To always Each week, The Banner profiles a person from the community working behind the scenes, whose efforts may not make headlines, but whose dedication makes Barry County shine. We’ll provide a quick peek each week at some of Barry County’s stars. Do you know someone who should be featured? Send information to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@jadgraphics.com. James Fisher, Retired Barry County Judge think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. Feel free to leave an opinion or comment. 24% 76% Hastings and Barry County. We both had the good fortune to be born in Hastings, so we learned at an early age what a great place it is. It was fun to turn the tables on Fred and interview him for this column, and I have to say that I was impressed by his responses. When I asked him who had influenced him the most, he mentioned many prominent Hastings leaders, including Dick Groos, Steve Johnson, Paul Siegel, Tom Stebbins, Dick Cook and Dick Shuster. Fred credits all of them, and many others, for his success. He also mentioned my uncle, Don Fisher, as someone who would always be honest with him and who wasn’t afraid to criticize him. That brings up another of Fred’s great attributes: he has never been afraid to offer honest criticism. He recognizes that his newspapers are more than a business, they are also community institutions. Part history book, part scrapbook, they preserve our local history and also serve as the conscience of our community. Fred has never been afraid to criticize our local elected leaders when needed, but he has also tried to offer support and praise when warranted. It’s a tough job, but if no one is willing to do it, the community suffers. Law Day has always been a special day for me. When you think about it, there is nothing more fundamental to our country than our system of laws, and this day causes us to reflect on how fortunate we are to have a legal system that preserves our rights and our freedoms. It is our responsibility to preserve and protect this system, and I can’t think of anyone who has done more in this regard than this year’s Liberty Bell Award recipient, Fred Jacobs. The Liberty Bell Award honors service to our legal system that includes educating the public, promoting a better understanding of our laws and encouraging greater public participation in our government. Fred has done all of these things throughout his newspaper career. Congratulations Fred, we are all thankful for your service to our community and we wish you many more years of continued success. You are very deserving of this award. Yes No Six-year terms? For this week: Many public school boards have opted for or are considering the extension of board member terms from four years to six years. Are you in favor of longer school board terms? q q Yes No SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN Specialist answers questions on statistics, benefits and more How many Social Security numbers have been issued since the program started? Since 1935, we have assigned more than 465 million Social Security numbers and each year we assign about 5.5 million new numbers. With approximately 1 billion combinations of the nine-digit Social Security number, the current system will provide us with enough new numbers for several generations into the future. To learn more about Social Security numbers and cards, visit www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10002.html. How do I change my citizenship status on my Social Security record? To change the citizenship status shown on our records, you need to complete an Application For a Social Security Card (Form SS-5), available at www.socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber/ss5.htm; show documents proving age, identity and new or revised citizenship status; and take (or mail) the completed application and docu- ments to your local Social Security office. All documents must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. We cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents. For more information, visit www.socialsecurity.gov. I have never worked but my spouse has. What will my benefits be? As a spouse, you may be entitled to one-half of a retired worker’s benefit amount when you reach full retirement age. If you want to get a Social Security retirement benefit as early as age 62, the amount of your benefit is reduced. The amount of reduction depends on when you will reach full retirement age. Can I receive Social Security benefits and Supplemental Security Income benefits at the same time? You may be able to receive SSI benefits in See SOCIAL SECURITY, pg. 12 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 3, 2012 — Page 5 To the editor: I am proud to proclaim that I was born and raised in Hastings and I will forever have Barry County as a part of my heritage. Recently, I have learned that the citizens of Barry County will have the opportunity to elect a new prosecuting attorney. This election truly merits the attention of the entire electoral population, since it presents an occasion to move Barry County in a very positive direction. My legal career has taken me from the modern courtrooms located within the Daley Center in Chicago all the way to the beautiful, historic Barry County Courthouse. Aesthetically, these two justice complexes could not appear any more different. However, one quality that unites all justice facilities in the United States, is the shared need for honor and dignity. Elections are a recurring part of life. Unfortunately, all too often voters are presented with candidates who leave them feeling as if they are simply stuck voting for the lesser of two evils. This quandary often results in voters simply voting for the incumbent, since it is a name they may recognize. I first met Julie Nakfoor Pratt while she was serving as an assistant prosecuting attorney in Allegan County. In that post, Julie was my adversary as I was representing clients facing criminal charges. Julie always con- ducted herself with both honor and dignity. She never disrespected or abused the power that comes with being an assistant prosecuting attorney. Julie was tough, but always objective and unbiased. After Julie started her career in private practice, I was pleased to refer both family members and friends to her. I was confident Julie would handle their matters in a professional and ethical manner. My confidence was rewarded; Julie has always surpassed the high expectations held by both the clients and myself. I ask Barry County voters to take the time to become informed of the positive opportunity they possess during this election cycle. I have no doubt that, once elected prosecuting attorney, Julie will conduct herself in a manner that exudes ethics, dignity and honor. The positive result of this election will be one that restores professionalism to the office of the Barry County Prosecuting Attorney. With the election of Julie Nakfoor Pratt, the office of the prosecuting attorney, and county as a whole, will remain one for which we never need to apologize. The citizens of Barry County deserve the best, and Julie Nakfoor Pratt will represent the citizens of Barry County with class, dignity and honor. Adam D. Bancroft, Plainwell Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV Far too many cats and dogs killed each year To the editor: Do you know how many dogs, cats, kittens and puppies are killed in animal shelters every year? Many of these unfortunate animals are given up by their owners for various reasons, but “economic euthanasia” is sadly becoming more common in this recession because the owners can no longer afford the food or medical costs to keep their pets. Millions of cats and dogs are killed every year in the United States alone, and right here at the Barry County Animal Control facility, the statistics also are dismal. According to the Michigan Department of Agriculture shelter Activity report for 2011, there were 220 dogs younger than 6 months admitted, and of those puppies, 47, or 21 percent were killed and dogs older than 6 months admitted numbered 589, with 205 killed, or 34 percent. Cats fared even worse. Of cats younger than 6 months old, 805 were admitted, with 622 of those kittens, or 77 percent killed, and of the cats over 6 months of age, 716 were admitted, with 572, or 79 percent killed. So, of the 2,330 cats and dogs admitted to the Barry County Animal Control in 2011, 1446, or 62 percent were killed. The reasons for euthanasia were lack of space, behavior problems, injuries or illness or owner request. However, the majority of the cats and dogs admitted to animal control facilities and shelters are highly adoptable and include a large number of puppies and kittens. As you can see by the numbers, far too many are being killed. There are simply too many dogs and cats having litters. There are not enough homes to go around for these animals. Owners need to get their pets fixed. If owners don’t do this, they are part of the problem which can result in many of the cats and dogs being dumped and becoming stray or even feral, or inhumanely abused or killed. The feral cat problem is simply out of control. Think about the puppy mill raid of a few weeks ago in Allegan County when the Wishbone Humane Society seized over 350 filthy and unsocialized dogs. This could very well happen here in Barry County, too. The Barry County Humane Society can help owners with the cost to spay or neuter pets. We have just been awarded a grant to help those in financial need fix their dogs. Call us for more information on this program. Also, we have information and help available for people with cats and can provide information on low-cost or even FREE fixing of feral or stray cats. All you need to do is call to help stem this growing over-population problem of homeless dogs and cats. The Barry County Humane Society phone number is 269-9450602. Be a good steward of this planet and those who inhabit it – both human and non-human. Mary A. Fisher, president, Barry County Humane Society It is Law Week, but is it justice week? To the editor: This week, Barry County will celebrate law week, honoring the legal professionals that protect our civil, political and human rights. Every day we should thank the judges, attorneys, paralegals and their staffs as they guard our constitutional liberties. We are fortunate to have a county bar association that takes the time and makes the effort to educate their fellow citizens as to their rights as well as their obligations in a democratic system. “Justice for all” means the guiding principle that each party in a legal dispute has a learned and competent attorney and their pleadings are presided over by an impar- HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, May 3 — Movie Memories presents the little gem “No Greater Glory,” 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, May 4 — preschool story time enjoys stories about gardens, 10:30 to 11 a.m. Saturday, May 5 — Lego Club is having a Lego party, 1 to 3 p.m. Monday, May 7 — tickets for Christine Keller and Gary Schmidt events available; computer class tackles office programs for the job seeker, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 8 — toddler story time enjoys stories about butterflies, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.; open chess club, 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 9 — Terrific Tweens end the year with a party, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.; Friends of the Library Annual Meeting, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Call 269-945-4263 for more information about any of the above. tial judge. The bar association is the guardian of these principles. It is significant that many of the week’s commemorative activities will take place in and around Barry County’s historic courthouse and celebrated circuit courtroom. It is in this building and room where justice is dispensed after all sides have had “their day in court.” Justice is denied if all parties in a case are not well represented when they have their day in court. Barry County is not well represented by our current prosecutor. According to news stories in the Banner, our prosecutor has been found negligent, and at least one of his cases has been taken over by the Michigan Attorney General. What has this cost the county in financial reimbursements to the Michigan Attorney General’s office? What has been the cost to victims, when justice is denied, due to carelessness or neglect? It is time for a change, return justice to Barry County and vote for Julie Nakfoor Pratt in the Republican primary Aug. 7. Peter C. Leach, Middleville Judicial system needs more justice To the editor: I am writing to express my gratitude that Julie Nakfoor Pratt has decided to run for prosecutor in Barry County. I have known Julie for many years and know her to be a wonderful person, as well as an excellent attorney. It is past time for a chance in the prosecutor’s office. Julie will bring back hard work, honesty and integrity to the prosecutor’s position. She is an experienced and proven litigator. I do not believe our current prosecutor is providing the service to our county that he was elected to do. It is the time of year when our elected officials will be out and about seeking your vote. You will see our Prosecutor Tom Evans at many events around the county, and Tom is a very good politician. He is good at being a politician; however, he is not a good choice to continue to represent our county prosecutor’s office. We need someone who will make the tough decisions and try those tough cases in court. We need someone who can take these cases to court and litigate them fully – not only litigate, but win. We need someone to bring justice back to our county’s judicial system. Barry County also needs a prosecutor who works well with all law enforcement agencies and has their respect as a competent representative of the people. Julie has earned the respect of our local law enforcement agencies during her many years as an attorney, as well as as while she was the assistant prosecuting attorney here. Julie knows how to balance her time raising her family and being the best attorney she can be. She is concerned about our community and is committed to making the changes necessary to regain the trust of the people in our county. I will be voting for Julie Nakfoor Pratt at the primary in August in the hopes that she will get the opportunity to correct the current deficiencies in our prosecutor’s office. I encourage you to look at the facts and do the same. Cris A. Fish, Hastings Never going to lease land To the editor: I am also against the gas and oil fracking in our county. I live in Assyria Township and after reading about all of this in the April 12 Banner, I will never lease my farm. It damages water and soils, not to mention other problems. Ellen Mayes, Bellevue Call 945-9554 any time for Hastings Banner classified ads The Thornapple Players will hold OPEN AUDITIONS th on th May 7 & May 8 at 7:00pm in the Barry Enrichment Center at 231 S. Broadway in Leason Sharp Hall for Three One Act Plays to be presented on June 7, 8 & 9: The Still Alarm • The Ugly Duckling • The Twelve-Pound Look There are 15-20 available roles. Anyone ages 18 and over is welcome to audition. No preparation is necessary. Michael Moray & Jason Roper are directing. Questions? Call Michael at 517-449-7808. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. The Hastings Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Helen Mudry Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 Hastings: One Stop Shop (BP) (M-43 North) Tom’s Market Superette Family Fare One Stop Food (BP) (M-37 South) Hastings Speedy Mart (Shell) Bosley Admiral Penn-Nook Gift Shop P.B. Gas Station (W. State St.) BP Gas Station (M-37 West) Xpress Mart Family Fare Gas Station Middleville: Speedway Middleville Marketplace Greg’s Get-It-N-Go Shell Cloverdale: Cloverdale General Brown’s Cedar Creek Grocery Gun Lake: Sam’s Gourmet Foods Gun Lake Amoco Gun Lake Shell Delton: Felpausch Michigan Short Stop Shell Banfield: Banfield General Store Orangeville: Orangeville Fast Stop Lacey: Clyde’s Sportsman Post Pine Lake: Pine Lake Grocery Dowling: Goldsworthys Dowling General Store Prairieville: Prairieville Fast Stop Woodland: Woodland Express Nashville: Trading Post Little’s Country Store Shell MV Pharmacy Nashville C Store Carl’s Lake Odessa: Lake-O-Express Lake-O-Mart Shell Carl’s Freeport: L & J’s Freeport Milling Shelbyville: Weick’s Food Town The Store at Southshore 77566089 Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Area Locations to purchase the Hastings Banner! 77567501 Prosecutor should have class, dignity, honor �Page 6 — Thursday, May 3, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Newborn Babies Leah Rae, born at Pennock Hospital on April 18, 2012 at 4:24 p.m. to Paul and Danielle Arnett of Hastings. Weighing 6 lbs. 7 ozs. and 18 inches long. ***** Zoey Lynn, born at Pennock Hospital on April 18, 2012 at 7:58 a.m. to Amanda Morrow and Rob Mekkes of Wyoming. Weighing 6 lbs. 7 ozs. and 18 1/2 inches long. ***** EmmaLee Louise, born at Pennock Hospital on April 20, 2012 at 7:55 a.m. to Eva Gilbert of Lake Odessa. Weighing 8 lbs. 0 ozs. and 19 1/2 inches long. Worship Together… of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. CHURCH OF THE LIVING GOD A full gospel church. 1240 W. State Rd., Hastings. Pastor Doug Davis. 269-948-9740. Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study 6 p.m. Sunday School and Youth Group for all ages. Come and worship the Lord with us! . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. ORANGEVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH 6921 Marsh Rd., 2 miles south of Gun Lake, Plainwell. Phone 269664-4377. OrangevilleBaptist.org. Pastors Dan Bowman and Adam Parmenter. Sundays - 9:45--10:45 a.m. “Dealing With Your Past” March through May. March 25 - 6 p.m. “Messiah in the Passover’ Seder Meal. March 31 - 7 p.m. Orangeville Cafe. April 8 - 7:30 & 11 a.m. Easter Celebration. April 22-27 - Evangelist Will Rice. Children, teen and adult Sunday School classes; 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Worship; 5:30 p.m. Junior and Senior High Word of Life Clubs. Tuesday - 9 a.m. Men’s Prayer and Bible Study. Wednesday - 6:30 p.m. Pre-school through 6th grade Word of Life Gophers & Olympians. Prayer & Bible Study - 7 p.m. 6 p.m. Teen Word of Life. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Rev. Ryan Wieland. Sundays - 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Service; Sunday School and Nursery available during both services (Summer Schedule - Adult Sunday School: 9 a.m., Worship & Children’s Programs 10 a.m.) Youth Group, Covenant Prayer, Choir, Chimes, Praise Band, Quilting Group, Community Breakfasts and more! Call the church office at (269) 721-8077 (M/W/F 9 a.m.-12 p.m.), e-mail office@mei.net or visit www.countrychapelumc.org <http://www.countrychapelumc.org/> for more information SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 or -517-852-1806. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. HASTINGS REFORMED CHURCH “A Historic Reformed Community.” Sunday morning services begin at 10 a.m. Meeting at the Barry County Commission on Aging building, 320 W. Woodlawn Ave., Hastings. Pastor: Peter Adams. 616-690-8609 padams@juno.com. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 9:15 Contemporary Worship, 10:30 a.m. Refreshments, 11 a.m. Traditional Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Pastor of Senior Adults and Visitation, Don Brail. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. for children, youths and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Senior High Youth Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Mid-Week: 6:30-7:45 p.m. Pioneer Clubs, age 4th to 5th grade, and Junior High Youth Group, 6th-8th grade. Thursday: 10 a.m. Senior Adult Discussion and 11:30 a.m., lunch at Wendy’s. FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 10 a.m. Sunday School for ALL Ages; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service; 6 p.m. Youth Group; 6 p.m. Adult Small Group. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian. blogspot.com. Thursday - 11:30 Women’s Brown Bag Bible Study; 6:30 p.m. Choir Rehearsal. Friday 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday - 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday - 4 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball; 6:30 p.m. Financial Peace University. Fiberglass Products 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 NORTH N: K 8 6 3 M: 10 9 5 L: Q 9 8 K: 8 7 5 WEST Standlers celebrate silver wedding anniversary Marriage Licenses Paul Allen Dull, Hastings and Debby Lee Lamance, Hastings. Michael Charles Klovanich, Hastings and Sherlyn Jean Courtney, Hastings. James Theodore McQuern, Hastings and Amanda Kay McKelvey, Hastings. Jacob Brian Roll, Hastings and Karen Kay Branham, Nashville. Justin Carl Rounds, Grand Rapids and Maranda Sue Havens, Middleville. John Warren Spaulding, Delton and Jacqueline Jean Harrison, Delton. Gabriel Robert Sutherland, Hastings and Amelia Annie-Maude Travis, Hastings. Jan Teisinger, Chicago, IL and Kara Beth Stalzer, Chicago. Kevin Michael Wood, Wayland and Amy Renee Bauer, Wayland. Area Obituary Geoffrey “Geoff” E. Cross 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 EAST N: Q 10 7 M: A J 8 6 2 L: K 4 K: K J 10 The children of high school sweethearts, Paul and Lisa Standler, would like to congratulate them on their 25th wedding anniversary. To celebrate they went to Oregon and California for a second honeymoon. We love you both, Chelsea, Kylie, and grandson Grayson. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Sunday, May 6 - Worship at 8 and 10 a.m. Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. May 6 - Men’s AA at 7 p.m. May 7Pennock Hospice at 5 p.m.; Women of Faith Bible Study at 7 p.m.; Spiritual AA at 7:30 p.m. May 8 Stewardship Committee at 6 p.m.; Youth Committee at 6 p.m. May 9 Wordwatchers Bible Study at 10 a.m.; Vision Team at 7 p.m. May 10 - Clapper Kids Bell Choir at 3:45 p.m.; Grace Notes Bell Choir at 5:45 p.m.; Choir at 7:15 p.m. May 11 High School Homeless Event at 5 p.m.-5 a.m. May 12 - Vacation Bible School Leader Meeting at 9-10:30 a.m. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 9452645, fax 269-945-2698. Pastor Amy Luckey. Website - http://www.discovergrace.org This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Lauer Family Funeral Homes by Gerald Stein 77567397 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY N: 5 4 M: 7 4 L: J 6 5 2 K: A Q 9 6 3 SOUTH: N: A J 9 2 M: K Q 3 L: A 10 7 3 K: 4 2 Vulnerable: None Dealer: South The lead: 7K South 1L 1K Pass West 1M Pass Pass North Pass 2K East Pass Pass “Playing up,” or “Playing up a level” are terms that bridge teachers and bridge directors use to encourage beginner and intermediate bridge players who want to improve their game to do so. What it means is that when given the opportunity to play with more advanced and better bridge players, take that opportunity and try to play up to the level of the advanced players. Although it may mean taking considerable risk and may often be a humiliating experience, at other times, it can be satisfying and successful. Learning how expert bridge players bid and play their hands is an eye-opening experience. In a recent bridge outing, the North and South team encountered a team of East-West players who were considered successful and advanced bridge players. Did the North-South team “play up”? In today’s hand, South opened a convenient minor by bidding one diamond showing at least three diamonds and an opening count for his bid. West, one of the experts, overcalled one heart with five hearts and 14 high card points and one point for length in the heart suit for 15 points. North with only five points used good judgment and passed. Likewise, East passed with little support for his partner’s overcall bid. Undeterred by his partner’s pass and the overcall bid by West, Brave South bid again, this time bidding one spade showing four spades in his minimum hand. West passed, and this time, North liked what she had heard, and, knowing that her partner had four spades, she confidently bid two spades. The contract was placed at two spades with South as the declarer when all passed. This was one of those hands where the high card points were equally distributed in the hands. North-South had 19 high card points while East-West had the remaining 21 points. This was one of those times when a bit of aggressive bidding by the North-South partnership resulted in a plus score for them. Even though North had only five high card points, she realized that there was a Golden Fit in the spade suit. Bidding at the two level in spades put pressure on the East-West team to find a fit at the three level. This was something the East-West team was not prepared to do. While they had a fit in the club suit, they were not going to find it on this hand due to the raise by the North partner. East-West can make three clubs with a fine eight-card fit in clubs. With a lead of the seven of spades, (West was marked with most of the points based on his bidding of hearts) South surveyed the dummy and made his plan. He would lose no spade tricks and with the good hearts in both hands was able to take two heart tricks, trump a losing club in the dummy, and, with the Ace of diamonds, take eight tricks for a plus score. While bidding with fewer than six points is not recommended, still there is a time and a need to listen to the bidding, assess the situation, and bid confidently. With five high card points and four spades, North was happy with her bid, and South was smiling inwardly that he had such a competent partner. “Playing up a level” can be one good path to improving your bridge game. While not for the faint-of-heart, at times you will be rewarded with a top score by “playing up a level.” ***** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) Ray L. Girrbach Owner/Director 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 • 269-945-3252 Serving Hastings, Barry County and Surrounding Communities for 45 years •Traditional and Cremation Services •Pre-Planning Services •Large Parking Lot - Handicap Accessible •Serving All Faiths •Pre-arrangement Transfers Accepted MIDDLEVILLE, MI - Geoffrey "Geoff" E. Cross, age 47, of Middleville, passed away April 28, 2012. Geoff was born July 29, 1964 in Hastings, the son of Russell E. and Barbara J. (Courtney) Cross. Geoff owned and operated Cross' Lawn Care in Middleville. Geoff's greatest joy was being a father. Geoff was an avid hunter, fisherman, mechanic, and he also enjoyed garage sales, thrift stores, metal scrapping and collecting clocks. Geoff is survived by his parents of Irons; beloved wife, Ann, of 25 years; a son, Josh Cross of Grand Rapids; a daughter, ChyAnn Cross of Middleville; brother and sister, Steven and Tammy Cross; a special nephew and niece, Trent and Trinity Cross, of Irons; his mother-in-law, Charlotte Finkbeiner of Middleville; cousins and several other nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be conducted Saturday, May 5, 2012, at 11 a.m. at Leighton United Methodist Church, Pastor Dave McBride officiating, followed by a luncheon. Memorial contributions to the Leighton United Methodist Church, will be appreciated. The family is being cared for by BeelerGores Funeral Home. Please visit www.beeler-goresfuneral.com to view Geoff's online guest book. Family Owned and Operated www.girrbachfuneralhome.net Reporting History for the Future in 6 Barry County Area Newspapers • Lakewood News • Maple Valley News • Middleville-Caledonia Sun & News • Reminder • Hastings Banner Over 64,000 Papers Distributed Every Week! 1351 N. M-43 Highway • P.O. Box 188 Hastings, MI 49058 Phone (269) 945-9554 • Fax (269) 945-5192 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 3, 2012 — Page 7 LIBERTY BELL, continued from page 1 Attorney Bob Byington speaks of Fred Jacob’s passion for the community before presenting him with the 2012 Liberty Bell Award. “I must make sure that there are more cops and tougher laws, so our communities are safe, sound and secure, that our schools are places of learning not violence, and your streets and neighborhoods are safe.” Byington then listed the numerous community awards received by Jacobs and commented on the Air National Guard Military Achievement Award. Fred and Patti Jacobs. “You know we are talking about fracking now. A lot of people were surprised there were 200 people at last night’s meeting at Pierce Cedar Creek. In Barry County, we’re not tree huggers, but we are passionate about the county, about the wildlife, and we are concerned about the water here, the farmers are concerned about their animals and crops.” Fred Jacobs “I was amazed at that one,” said Byington. “Only because I couldn’t imagine Fred just following orders. Fred has been an independent thinker and is the person in our community who most frequently expresses his First Amendment Right to Free Speech.” Jacobs stepped to the podium to accept his award from Byington. He introduced his wife Patti and his family. “We kid about it,” said Jacobs, “but, if it wasn’t for her, I probably wouldn’t be here today... for a whole bunch of reasons. She is the rock and foundation behind my life. She keeps me on the straight and narrow, and keeps me from going in the wrong direction. She reminds me if something might not be the best thing to do, or to change something. “I am humbled by this award and, if you can believe it, I was speechless when Bob told me I was this year’s recipient. I don’t have time to go through the entire list of recipients before me, but I would like to recognize the last three right now. “Bob King was three years ago. Bob King came here in the 1940s and it is amazing there have been only two other people (Directors) in the history of the Barry County YMCA. Bob and his wife, Pudge, were so dedicated to this community. Even though they didn’t grow up here, I think they would say Hastings was their hometown. Pudge was one of my greatest teachers and I have so many fond memories of being in that class. “The next one is Larry and Earlene Baum. They have built a global company right here and have passed it on to their son, Dave. It’s growing in Hastings, still. Another industrialist winner was last year’s winner, Doug and Margaret DeCamp. I have known Doug all my life. I knew when he started his company 50 years ago, it was a tough go, as it was with the McMullen/Baum family when they started. Yet, they survived. They took their company from nothing and built phenomonal businesses. Both of these companies still reside in Hastings. “I had a guy ask me just the other day, ‘What is it with your industries here? What’s the magic?’ It’s pretty simple really, and I always answer the same way. It’s because of the local connections. The passion that local people have to do something in their community. CELL PHONE BOOSTER 07598500 06778835 Liberty Bell Award is given to a person, group, or organization for their commitment to the community and has been awarded since 1977 in Barry County. “This year’s recipient is life-long resident of Hastings and Barry County, Fred Jacobs,” announced Byington. “A little bit about Fred . . . He was born and raised in Hastings, attended St. Rose of Lima and Central Elementary schools, graduated from Hastings High School, and, shortly thereafter, joined the Air National Guard. Fred is about the same age as I am, and I imagine he had the same choices I had -- one, to go to a University and hope the draft ended before you graduated, two, to sit around and get drafted, or the third option was the National Guard. Fred chose the Air National Guard in the Spring of 1970. After completing his military training he returned to Hastings. “He married his high school sweetheart, Patti St. Martin, who is the only one who can keep him under control. They have four children - Jon, Jennie, and Carrie who all work at the family business -- their daughter Jill died as a toddler.” Byington talked of Jacobs’ long-time involvement with Hasting Rotary Club and the Chamber of Commerce, his charter involvement in the Barry County Futuring Committee, the Barry County Healthcare Coalition and Barry County Economic Development Alliance. Jacobs also served on the Thornapple Foundation which later became the Barry Community Foundation. He was instrumental in negotiating the Kellogg Community College Fehsenfeld Center being built in Hastings. “There’s Larry and Doug, and there’s Dick Groos (1994 recipient). I have been so lucky to be involved with these people in a time when I can learn from them. Growing up in Hastings, I have learned so much, and it has allowed me to form my ideas over the years and develop a leadership style. “Another person who had a great impact on my life was Don Fisher - Judge Fisher’s uncle. He said, and I think it has made all the difference, ‘Don’t sit on the sidelines, get into the game.’ “In the late 1980s we started the Futuring Committee here in Barry County and, of all the things I have done, I think that has made the biggest difference. We learned so much. We talked about farmland and education, what we could do to make government better. “You know we are talking about fracking now. A lot of people were surprised there were 200 people at last night’s meeting at Pierce Cedar Creek. In Barry County, we’re not tree huggers, but we are passionate about the county, about the wildlife, and we are concerned about the water here, the farmers are concerned about their animals and crops. “Barry County is a different place. That didn’t happen overnight. It has happened over years and the passion people have within them is what makes the difference.” Jacobs talked about starting his “In My Opinion” column in the Hastings Banner. He told the crowd some people don’t agree with what he writes at times, but tell him they are glad he wrote it. Jacobs said if we say it and talk about it, then we start the debate. He said he started writing the articles before his father (Mel Jacobs) passed away in 1995. Jacobs said his dad was a very quiet individual, he didn’t want to write editorials which would get him into trouble and was very careful. When Jacobs started writing the columns he would hand the writing to his father, who would read it, say it was good, and file it in his desk drawer. He asked his dad why the pieces were not being printed and was told “You have to realize the impact your words have on the community, and on a person.” Jacobs said his father told him he didn’t have enough experience back then to write a knowledgable column. “When my dad passed away,” said Jacobs, “I looked in his desk and found a folder with all my columns. It was kind of funny. The folder was marked ‘Dangerous Material’.” In closing Jacobs quoted one of his favorite presidents, John F. Kennedy who said, “One person can make a difference, and every person must try.” Then Jacobs quoted Henry Ford, “If you think you can, or you think you can’t, you’re right.” “I think I can, and I will,” ended Jacobs. Country Chapel UMC will be serving a... Mother and Child Banquet Friday, May 11th • 7:00 p.m. Cost $7 per person. Children under 5 yrs. eat free. Country Chapel UMC TWO BROTHERS AND A TENT 9275 South M37, Dowling, MI To call in your reservations or to find out more information call 269-721-8077 or log on to www.countrychapelumc.org For All Your Tent Rental Needs Tables and chairs available. Call: Dan McKinney 269-838-7057 or Tom McKinney 269-838-3842 Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette Licensed / Insured / Local Call Scott 517-290-5556 • 877-448-1548 FREE Consultation & Estimates! ALSO EGRESS WINDOWS / MOLD REMEDIATION 77567486 77566915 BARRY COUNTY Area TEA PARTY MEETING PART TIME MAINTENANCE/SECURITY Charlton Park is seeking a qualified individual for lawn mowing, yard work, facility cleaning, and park security. • Work schedule; Evenings and Weekends 20-30 hours per week • Starting May 18, 2012 through September 20, 2012 • $8.00 per hour H.S. Diploma, valid drivers license, own transportation, at least 18 years of age, pre employment drug screening, and references required. Applications are available at the park office or website. Call Tom Campbell 269-945-3775 for more information. Application Deadline: May 15, 2012 Michigan’s Attorney General Bill Schuette was in Hastings to celebrate Law Day. 7:00 pm • Tuesday, May 8th Video: The Voices of America 77567479 Byington also mentioned Jacobs’ involvement with the implementation of the Gilmore Car Museum’s Garage Works program, and the current collaboration bringing welding classes and student certification to Barry County. Jacobs is also involved with many state-wide newspaper associations and serves as president of the Community Papers of Michigan Association. “He finds it hard to say no to anything which promotes Hastings and Barry County,” said Byington. “He has also been part of the church choir for over 40 years. Those of you who have heard Fred sing understand his talent.” Middle Villa Inn Village, Museum & Recreation Area 2545 S. Charlton Park Rd., Hastings, MI 49058-8102 www.charltonpark.org Yes Kathy… 77567505 today it is all about you! 4611 North M-37, Middleville Gary L. Munson • 269-623-8464 ® The Rent-A-Center Love, your family 02709415 77567477 Wish KATHY CONKLIN of Gilmore Jewelers a happy 50th on May 3rd. Must be self-motivated, team oriented, and have excellent communication skills. 5-day work week, full benefits, 401k with company participation, 2-weeks paid vacation, paid holidays. Closed Sundays. Starting at $28,500 a year with opportunity for advancements. Retail sales or customer service is required. 2-year college degree preferred, but not required. EOE. Fax resume or send to: 269-945-1946 Rent-A-Center 908 W. State Street, Hastings, MI 49058 Attn: Chris Grummet Apply online @ rentacenter.com 77564841 Customer Account Representative �Page 8 — Thursday, May 3, 2012 — The Hastings Banner State News Roundup Coldwater troopers seize $150,000 worth of stolen sporting goods equipment Troopers at the Michigan State Police Coldwater Post received information on a cache of stolen goods while investigating a case of larceny by false pretense. The suspect, a 39-year-old male from Coldwater, has been the target of a State Police investigation in which goods have been ordered from sporting goods suppliers with the intent of never paying for them. The suspect had previously been investigated and charged on a case with related activity until the most recent discovery of stolen property was made. Troopers are attempting to locate the victims and retailers to return the stolen property. Several of the retailers are located out of state and possibly in Canada. Some of the items recovered are 20 Radisson brand canoes, 15 Kayaki brand kayaks, five Kiwi brand kayaks, three Family Tradition brand tree stands, three Contour brand paddle boats, 30 Bulldog brand archery targets, 18 Hurricane brand archery targets, assorted hunting decoys, six three-dimensional archery deer targets, ten archery target systems, 12 various crossbows, 16 compound bows, 107 ice fishing rods, 73 fishing rods, one bow tuner, ten Lake weed rakes, 21 boxes of wheel bearings and seven cases of assorted fishing lures. Anyone with possible information regarding this investigation is being encouraged to contact the Michigan State Police Coldwater Post, 269-278-2373. Air Zoo offering free airplane rides to veterans This summer, veterans who served during World War II and the Korean War will have the chance to take flight, for free. Beginning June 19, veterans will be able to fly in a Boeing-Stearman N2S-5 Kaydet, courtesy of the Air Zoo and pilot and sponsor Alan Wright. The Kaydet is an open cockpit aircraft that served as the U.S. Navy’s primary trainer during World War II. Lake Odessa by Elaine Garlock Spring Into the Past is the theme of the spring tour of more than 20 museums clustered in the valleys of the Grand, Flat and Thornapple rivers. Each of the museums will be staffed Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The buildings range from former churches to depots, to store buildings and even one which was built to be a museum. No admission is being charged at any museum for this occasion. Lake Odessa’s museum buildings are at 1117 Emerson st. between two apartment buildings. An added feature in Lake Odessa is the Grand Trunk caboose with its fresh coat of paint. Women’s Fellowship of First Congregational Church is to meet Wednesday, May 9, at 1 p.m. Thursday, May 10, the Lake Odessa Area Historical Society is to convene at Lakeside Cemetery, for a walk, confined to just one section on the west side of Cemetery Road. Re-enactors will be at several spots to give the story of the person at whose marker he or she is located. People who attend may want to bring lawn chairs to use after completion of the walk because the monthly meeting of the society will be held on site. Dues will be set and officers elected for the coming year. In case of inclement weather, the meeting will be at the Freight House with a cemetery talk. Saturday, May 12, the Ionia County Genealogical Society will meet at 1p.m. at the Freight House. The Crop Walk was Sunday afternoon with good weather for all the walkers. A light lunch was served on the premises before the start. The end-off was given with prayer for safety. Funding from this event provides much of the budget of Lakewood Community Services governed by several local churches. John and Terri (Allerding) Catt returned home Monday after a trip to Arizona. They had good weather until Illinois. They stayed the weekend with their daughter in South Bend, Ind. Lake Odessa has received some positive recognition from Retirement Media Inc. It is now listed as one of the top retirement destinations in Michigan. The positive features for retirement are being affordable, having arts and festivals, a revitalized business district and a friendly relaxed small-town atmosphere. Students at Faith Christian School will perform their version of “The Calliope Capers” Friday, May 4, at the school on Woodland Road at 7 p.m. It is free to the public. Woodland Elementary School will host an art show May 4, along with a soup supper from 5 to 7 p.m. “This is the Air Zoo’s seventh consecutive year to offer free veteran flights,” said Bob Ellis, Air Zoo president and CEO. “It is our simple way of saying ‘thank you’ and giving back to those who have sacrificed so much to serve our country.” Flights will take place on Tuesdays through Aug. 21 (except July 3), weather permitting. They are open to veterans who have not previously participated with the Air Zoo’s free veteran flights. Flights will be scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis. Those who are flying must sign a waiver and be able to get in and out of the aircraft on their own. A maximum of five flights per day will be offered. For more information or to reserve a flight, call 269-350-2815. Marshall launches self-guided tours with sidewalk symbols Sidewalks in Marshall are being painted to highlight historic resources. The green dotted Historic Homes Walk will feature more than 200 structures, and the red dotted Historic Downtown Walk includes five museums. Other walks include historic Oakridge Cemetery, nature areas and a collection of historic buildings at the fairgrounds on the hill, which almost became the state capitol complex. The riverwalk is a part of the North Country National Scenic Trail. The Kalamazoo River is open again for boats, canoes or kayaks after an oil spill of 2010. “Our historic town is a virtual museum without walls and is available 24/7 for selfguided walks, rain or shine,” said Tourism Director Karen Hagerty. “We also have guided tours, group tours and carriage rides available.” Marshall’s National Historic Landmark District contains a collection of 19th century architecture. “In addition to painted sidewalks, an updated website www.historicmarshall.org and new print materials have been developed,” Hagerty said. “It will now be much easier for visitors to find and learn about the historic structures, markers, trees, museums, nature trails, events, performances, arts, shopping, dining and accommodations.” Michigan Week’s Tourism Day, May 19, will give visitors the opportunity to tour Marshall’s museums for free from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. An Indian trail became the Territorial Road for settlers, and now buildings from the late 1800s along that trail (Michigan Avenue) house modern businesses. This state-designated Historic Heritage Route qualified the city to apply for National Scenic Byways grants. A portion of the city’s second grant is being used to produce the heritage tourism materials. Find detailed information at www.historicmarshall.org. Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of EDWARD JONES What should you do with a 401(k) when leaving a job? In the past, many people stayed at one job, or at least one company, for almost their entire working lives. When they retired, they could typically count on a pension, the value of which was based on their years of service and earnings. But today, workers can expect to hold several different jobs in their lifetime, and to a great extent, pensions have been replaced by 401(k) plans, which place much of the funding responsibility on employees. So, assuming you will change jobs at some point, and you do have a 401(k), what should you do with it? Here are your basic choices: • Cash out your plan. If you cash out your plan, your company will likely pay you 80% of your account value, withholding the rest for federal taxes. And if you’re younger than age 59 1/2, you may well be slapped with a 10% IRS tax penalty. Even worse, you’ll have lost a key source of your retirement income. Still, if you are leaving your employer involuntarily, and you need the money, cashing out your 401(k) is an option you may need to consider. • Keep the money in your company’s plan. When you leave a company, your employer may allow you to keep your money in your existing 401(k). You may want to choose this route if you like the investment choices available in your plan. However, you might be caught by surprise if the company decides to change investment options. Furthermore, some employers may charge former employees fees to maintain their 401(k) plans. • Move the money into your new employer’s plan. If your new employer has a 401(k) and allows transfers, you could roll the money from your old plan into the new one. This might be an attractive option if you like the investment options in your new employer’s plan. • Roll the money over to an IRA. You may find several advantages to rolling your 401(k) over to an Individual Retirement Account (IRA). First, your money will still have the potential to grow on a tax-deferred basis. Second, you can invest your funds in virtually any investment you choose — stocks, bonds, government securities, certificates of deposit (CDs), etc. Third, if you own more than one 401(k) account, you could find it advantageous to consolidate them into a single IRA, thereby making it easier to allocate and monitor your retirement assets. And fourth, IRAs may give you greater flexibility if you plan to pass money to your children. In fact, if your child inherits your IRA, he or she has the option of stretching withdrawals over the child’s entire lifetime , rather than taking the money as a lump sum. (If you do transfer funds from your old 401(k) to an IRA, be sure to use a “direct rollover” to avoid the possibility of triggering unwanted taxes.) Before making any moves with your 401(k), consult with your tax and financial advisors. By looking closely at your options, and by getting professional guidance, you can make the choice that’s right for you. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 32.42 +.72 AT&T 33.06 +1.34 BP PLC 42.70 +.79 CMS Energy Corp 23.24 +1.00 Coca-Cola Co 76.93 +2.81 Eaton 47.95 -.51 Family Dollar Stores 67.62 +1.51 Fifth Third Bancorp 14.40 +.45 Flowserve CP 113.49 +1.51 Ford Motor Co. 11.23 -.16 General Mills 38.93 +.29 General Motors 23.31 +.42 Intel Corp. 28.95 +1.64 Kellogg Co. 50.00 -.43 McDonald’s Corp 97.20 +2.61 Pfizer Inc. 22.78 +.15 Ralcorp 72.95 +.43 Sears Holding 62.05 +11.46 Spartan Motors 4.92 +.33 Spartan Stores 17.89 +.01 Stryker 54.87 +1.71 TCF Financial 11.72 +.42 Walmart Stores 59.07 +1.30 Gold $1,661.63 +19.85 Silver $30.95 +.11 Dow Jones Average 13,279 +27B Volume on NYSE 730M +20M NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Barry County Board of Commissioners will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, May 22, 2012 at 9:00 a.m., in the Commission Chamber, located on the Mezzanine level of the Courthouse, 220 W. State Street, Hastings, MI 49058, for the purpose of amending the Barry County Address Ordinance to reincorporate Section 3.04—Changing Existing Road Names, Section 4.03—Changing Address Numbers, and Section 4.04— Notice of Enforcement. To obtain a copy of the proposed amendments or 77567381 for more information contact (269)945-1284. 77567216 Public Auction HOUSE FOR SALE Thursday May 10, 2012 Property is located at 10944 S Norris Road, Delton, MI The sale will be held at 1:00 pm. Minimum bid is $27,300 S.E.V is $63,700 Property Sells “AS IS” This home is a one story with 2 bedrooms and 1 bath and a 2 car attached garage This foreclosure sale is subject to six month redemption rights. Terms - Certified funds delivered to the Sheriff at the sale For more details contact Rural Development at (888) 771-6993 Rural Development is An Equal Opportunity Lender 77567484 A few weeks ago, nearly 400 Shih Tzu, Pomeranian, and other small-breed dogs were removed from a Cheshire Township home by animal control and transported to an Allegan County animal shelter. Most of these dogs were filthy and malnourished, and some needed immediate medical attention. Every one of these dogs was being raised for profit in what has come to be known as a puppy mill. Puppy mills are currently defined as any breeding operations that house more than 50 animals. Dogs at puppy mills typically receive little to no veterinary care; live in squalid conditions with no exercise, socialization or human interaction; and are confined inside cramped wire-floored cages for life. There is little regard for the dogs’ health or any existing genetic conditions that may be passed on to the puppies. Clearly, these living conditions are inhumane and something must be done to protect man’s best friend. I am working on bipartisan legislation with Sen. Steve Bieda that would ensure that any large-scale breeding facility with more than 15 female dogs is inspected annually by the Michigan Department of Agriculture. This travesty could have been prevented had Senate Bills 891 and 892 been signed into law. Senate Bill 891 is known as the puppy protection act and mandates that dogs in largescale breeding kennels will be provided adequate food and water, housing, veterinary care, regular exercise and rest between each breeding cycle, which is one litter every 12 months. Senate Bill 892 requires that puppy mills with more than 15 female dogs to be inspected by the department of agriculture annually. The breeder, not the taxpayers, would pay for the cost of the inspection. Dogs are a companion animal — not a farm crop raised for food. If they are abused in puppy mills, they develop behavior problems. The family that buys them suffers ,too. This legislation is about consumer protection as well as the humane treatment of dogs. Over the past three years, 16 states have passed new laws to crack down on puppy mills. I am hopeful that Michigan will soon be the 17th state to protect dogs from having to live in such abhorrent conditions and to ensure that only people who will properly care for dogs will be able to breed multiple dogs at one time. Call 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085to place your Hastings Banner classified ad �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 3, 2012 — Page 9 ORDER FOR LAYING OUT AND DESIGNATING A DRAINAGE DISTRICT Whereas, an application in writing, dated the 11th day of June 2011, has been made and filed with me, the County Drain Commissioner for the Barry County, Michigan, praying for the Laying Out and Designating of a Drainage District, with reference to a certain Drain, proposed to be named as follows: Middleville Towne Center Drain Drainage District; And Whereas, the application was signed by the Charles Pullen, on behalf of the Village of Middleville, as authorized by its governing authority pursuant to Resolution dated June 14, 2011 which the Village of Middleville will be liable for an at-large assessment on the Drain; And Whereas, as a means of determining the amount of tax or special assessments remaining unpaid on the tax rolls for the three years preceding this order, I did obtain a statement from the County Treasurer, and from that statement I find taxes and special assessments remaining unpaid to be less than two (2%) percent. And Whereas, as a further means of determining the practicability of the proposed drain, I did cause a survey to be made by Fitzgerald Henne & Associates, Inc. and as well as Williams & Works. Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz revisited This is the fifth part of a series reprinting the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz promotion that ran in the Banner 60 years ago. An unidentified aerial photo of an area farm was pictured in the Banner each week, from Jan. 24 to July 17, 1952, and the owners of the mystery farms were featured in the paper the following week. ***** Hastings Banner, March 6, 1952 Wurm moved onto the farm in 1921. Originally it was 120 acres but now a few lots have been sold off the Head Lake shoreline, which is on the back of the farm. Mrs. Wurm has a hobby of crocheting rugs and piecing quilts and has presented each of her four daughters with a patchwork quilt as a wedding present. Mr. Wurm’s hobby is fishing and hunting. In addition to Fred, their children are Mrs. H.C. (Gertrude) Blinkley, Angola, Ind.; Mrs. Lucky Farmer’s only son serving in See LUCKY FARMER, pg. 13 armed forces Mr. and Mrs. Oscar F. Wurm, the seventh Barry County couple to win the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz being sponsored by the Banner and 35 Barry merchants have much in common with dozens of other elderly mothers and dads in this area and throughout the nation: They have watched their family of five grow up and their son enter the armed forces. And, while they still live for all their children and grandchildren, uppermost in their thoughts is the well-being of the only son, Frederick, who is now a private in the Army stationed at Ft. George G. Mead, Md. Mrs. Wurm’s favorite pastime now is sitting beside the highly polished heater in her living MODERN FARMERS – Mrs. Donald Proefrock is pictured as room writing Fred she pauses from working on her farm account books to go the news of the place over farm receipts with her husband while their daughter, and rest of the family Suzanne, 15 months, watches Leo Barth snap the photo. The and neighborhood Proefrocks, whose farm was the eighth to be featured in the doings. Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz sponsored by the Banner and 35 The Wurm farm is Barry merchants, keep accurate data on all farm operations in located in Hope cooperation with Michigan State College’s Extension Service – Township, a mile and just as any business keeps track of receipts and expenditures. a quarter west of Shultz. They have lived on the farm doing general farming for over 30 years. Mr. Wurm now has rheumatism and finds it difficult to do the many chores he used to accomplish without much effort, but he still cuts his own winter’s supply of wood. Their son-inlaw, Clinton Kelley, puts in the crops. The Wurms were married Nov. 24, 1909, in the Methodist parsonage here by the Rev. Sheehan. After their marriage they first lived with his folks, west of their present home. Oscar was born on the farm Jan. 14, 1885, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Gus Wurm. Oscar’s wife is the former Laura 7TH LUCKY FARMERS – The farm home of Mr. and Mrs. Terpening, daughter Oscar F. Wurm, Route 5, Hastings, was the seventh pictured of Mr. and Mrs. in the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz sponsored by the Banner and Luther Terpening. 35 Barry merchants. The aerial view of their Hope Township She, too, was born in farm, where they have lived since 1921, was published in last Hope Township. week’s Banner. Mr. and Mrs. Wurm have four married daughThe farm they have ters and a son, Frederick, now in the Army stationed at Ft. now originally Mead, Md. As dozens of other Barry County parents who have belonged to Oscar’s sons in service, Fred is constantly in his mother’s and dad’s grandmother, Julia mind, and they were photographed Saturday as Mrs. Wurm Wurm. talks over a happy sentence she has just written to Fred. – Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Barth photo Now, Therefore, I do hereby determine that the application for Laying Out and Designating a Drainage District for the drain should be granted, and I do hereby determine from the survey that the drain is practicable, in accordance with the survey which is more particularly specified below. And I do further determine that the name or number of the Drain shall be the “Middleville Towne Center Drain,” by which name or number it shall hereafter be known and recorded. It is further ordered and determined that the commencement, route and terminus of the drain and the width, length and depth thereof shall be in accordance with the survey, as follows: BEGINNING AT A STORMWATER DETENTION POND LOCATED APPROXIMATELY 125 FEET WEST OF M-37 AND APPROXIMATELY 450 FEET SOUTHEAST OF THE INTERSECTION OF M-37 AND TOWNE CENTER DRIVE, LOCATED IN THE EAST ? OF SECTION 22 OF THE VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE, TOWNSHIP 4 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN. THENCE SOUTHEASTERLY THROUGH SAID STORMWATER DETENTION POND APPROXIMATELY 200 FEET, THENCE NORTHEASTERLY THROUGH A STORM SEWER UNDER M-37 APPROXIMATELY 100 FEET TO A STORMWATER DETENTION BASIN LOCATED APPROXIMATELY 75 FEET EAST OF M-37 AND 50 FEET WEST OF ARLINGTON COURT, SAID STORMWATER DETENTION BASIN LOCATED BETWEEN M-37 AND ARLINGTON COURT; THENCE APPROXIMATELY 650 FEET EAST TO THE 100-YEAR FLOODPLAIN ELEVATION OF THE THORNAPPLE RIVER AND THE POIaNT OF ENDING OF THIS DESCRIPTION. It is further ordered and determined that the following lands shall constitute the Drainage District and are described as: PART OF THE EAST 1/2 OF SECTION 22 OF THE VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE, TOWNSHIP 4 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS: BEGINNING AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF LOT 33 PLAT OF CHARLESON HEIGHTS ADDITION NO 2 TO THE VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE, BEING A SUBDIVISION IN PART OF SECTION 22, TOWNSHIP 4 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST, VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AS RECORDED IN LIBER 4, PAGE 62, BARRY COUNTY RECORDS; THENCE NORTHERLY ALONG THE WEST LINE OF LOT 34 SAID PLAT OF CHARLESON HEIGHTS ADDITION NO 2 TO THE VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE, A DISTANCE OF 125.8 FEET MORE OR LESS TO THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF LOT 23 PLAT OF CHARLSON HEIGHTS ADDITION NO. 1 TO THE VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE, BEING A SUBDIVISION IN PART OF SECTION 22, TOWNSHIP 4 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST, VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AS RECORDED IN LIBER 4, PAGE 42, BARRY COUNTY RECORDS; THENCE WESTERLY ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SAID LOT 23 A DISTANCE OF 135 FEET MORE OR LESS TO THE EASTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF CHARLES AVENUE; THENCE NORTHERLY ALONG SAID EASTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE 75 FEET MORE OR LESS TO THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF LOT 22, SAID PLAT OF CHARLESON HEIGHTS ADDITION NO. 1 TO THE VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE; THENCE NORTHWESTERLY 99.9 FEET MORE OR LESS TO THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF LOT 16 SAID PLAT OF CHARLESON HEIGHTS ADDITION NO. 1 TO THE VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE; THENCE N 54°21’ W 73 FEET MORE OR LESS TO A LINE PARALLEL WITH AND 60 FEET WESTERLY FROM THE WESTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF CHARLES STREET; THENCE NORTHERLY ALONG SAID PARALLEL LINE 198 FEET MORE OR LESS TO A LINE PARALLEL WITH AND 61 FEET SOUTHERLY FROM THE SOUTHERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF BERNARD STREET; THENCE WESTERLY ALONG SAID PARALLEL LINE 117 FEET MORE OR LESS TO THE EAST LINE OF LOT 19 PLAT OF SENECA RIDGE, BEING A SUBDIVISION IN PART OF SECTION 22, TOWNSHIP 4 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST, VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AS RECORDED IN LIBER 6, PAGE 63, BARRY COUNTY RECORDS; THENCE NORTHERLY ALONG SAID EAST LOT LINE 61 FEET MORE OR LESS TO THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF SAID LOT 19, ALSO BEING THE SOUTHERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF BENARD STREET; THENCE NORTHERLY 60 FEET MORE OR LESS TO A POINT ON THE NORTHERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF BENARD STREET SAID POINT LYING 4.6 FEET EASTERLY FROM THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF LOT 18 OF SAID PLAT OF SENECA RIDGE; THENCE N 46°10’ W 95 FEET MORE OR LESS TO A LINE PARALLEL WITH AND 43 FEET EASTERLY FROM THE EASTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF ACADIA COURT; THENCE NORTHERLY ALONG SAID PARALLEL LINE A DISTANCE OF 139 FEET MORE OR LESS TO THE NORTH LINE OF LOT 17 SAID PLAT OF SENECA RIDGE; THENCE N 12°03’ E 127 FEET; THENCE N 67° W 121 FEET; THENCE NORTH 328 FEET MORE OR LESS TO THE NORTHERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF TOWNE CENTER DRIVE; THENCE NORTHEASTERLY ALONG SAID NORTHERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF TOWNE CENTER DRIVE A DISTANCE OF 893 FEET MORE OR LESS TO THE SOUTHWESTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF STATE HIGHWAY M-37; THENCE NORTHWESTERLY ALONG SAID SOUTHWESTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE 286 FEET; THENCE NORTHEASTERLY AT A RIGHT ANGLE TO SAID SOUTHWESTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE 120 FEET MORE OR LESS TO THE NORTHEASTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF SAID STATE HIGHWAY M-37; THENCE S 89°50’ E 89 FEET MORE OR LESS TO A LINE PARALLEL WITH AND 78 FEET NORTHEASTERLY FROM THE NORTHEASTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF SAID STATE HIGHWAY M-37; THENCE SOUTHEASTERLY ALONG SAID PARALLEL LINE A DISTANCE OF 469 FEET; THENCE S 89°50’ E 154.4 FEET MORE OR LESS TO THE WESTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF ARLINGTON STREET; THENCE NORTHERLY ALONG SAID WESTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE 432 FEET; THENCE EASTERLY AT A RIGHT ANGLE TO SAID WESTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE 66 FEET MORE OR LESS TO THE EASTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF SAID ARLINGTON STREET; THENCE SOUTHERLY ALONG SAID EASTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE A DISTANCE OF 418 FEET; THENCE S 48°31’ E 126 FEET; THENCE S 00°40’ E 237 FEET; THENCE S 71°20’ E 276 FEET; THENCE S 64°40’ W 188 FEET; THENCE S 00°44’ W 310 FEET; THENCE S 35°51’ W 297.10 FEET MORE OR LESS TO THE EASTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF STATE HIGHWAY M37/ARLINGTON STREET; THENCE SOUTHERLY ALONG SAID EASTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE 304 FEET; THENCE WESTERLY ALONG SAID RIGHT OF WAY LINE 36 FEET; THENCE SOUTHERLY ALONG SAID EASTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE 545 FEET; THENCE WESTERLY AT A RIGHT ANGLE TO SAID EASTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE 66 FEET MORE OR LESS TO THE WESTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF STATE HIGHWAY M-37/ARLINGTON STREET; THENCE N 48°24’ W 207 FEET; THENCE N 72°33’ W 161 FEET; THENCE S 83°13’ W 335 FEET; THENCE N 13°36’ W 101.9 FEET MORE OR LESS TO A POINT ON THE NORTH LINE OF LOT 33, SAID PLAT OF CHARLESON HEIGHTS ADDITION NO. 2 TO THE VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE, SAID POINT LYING 46.4 FEET EASTERLY FROM THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF SAID LOT 33; THENCE WESTERLY ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SAID LOT 33 A DISTANCE OF 46.4 FEET MORE OR LESS TO THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF SAID LOT 33 AND THE POINT OF BEGINNING OF THIS DESCRIPTION. It is further ordered and determined that the following cities, villages and townships, county roads and state highways are benefited by the proposed drain and therefore may be liable to assessment: Village of Middleville Barry County MDOT Given under my hand, this ____day of ___________________, 20___ . Russell Yarger Barry County Drain Commissioner 77567298 �Page 10 — Thursday, May 3, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Mark A Edgar and Brenda K Edger, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated September 18, 2008, and recorded on October 7, 2008 in instrument 20081007-0009809, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Wells Fargo Bank, NA as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Forty-Three Thousand Four Hundred Fifty-One and 64/100 Dollars ($143,451.64). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 31, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 1203, Original Plan of the Village (Now City) of Hastings, according to the plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 3, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #290575F02 77567467 (05-03)(05-24) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Allen Micah Blickley, a married man and Sharon Blickley, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 28, 2008, and recorded on February 19, 2008 in instrument 20080219-0001472, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Eight Thousand Three Hundred Eight and 33/100 Dollars ($138,308.33). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 17, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the Village of Middleville, County of Barry, State of Michigan and described as follows: Lot 7, Block 58 of Village of Middleville according to the Plat thereof recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 27 of Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #398991F01 06778616 (04-19)(05-10) Call anytime for Hastings Banner classifieds 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Deborah L Larson, A Single Woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated March 7, 2011, and recorded on March 10, 2011 in instrument 201103100002310, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Everbank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Four Thousand Two Hundred Forty-Six and 20/100 Dollars ($124,246.20). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 10, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 8 and 9 of Bristol Oaks, according to the Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 4 of Plats, on Page 66. Together with a perpetual easement in common with others for driveway purposes, across and upon those private drives as now located and used that provide access to this property from a public highway as set forth in deeds recorded in Liber 291, on Page 397 and Liber 353, on Page 316. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #398293F01 06778314 (04-12)(05-03) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by MICHAEL D. BRZYCKI a/k/a MICHAEL BRZYCKI and JACKI BRZYCKI, husband and wife (collectively, "Mortgagor"), to GREENSTONE FARM CREDIT SERVICES, FLCA, a federally chartered corporation, having an office at 3515 West Road, East Lansing, Michigan 48823 (the "Mortgagee"), dated October 9, 2006, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on October 16, 2006, as Instrument No. 1171473 (the "Mortgage"). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgagee is the owner of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage. Mortgage Electronic Registration System (MERS) is not the sole foreclosing party. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Sixty-Four Thousand One Hundred Fifty-Five and 20/100 Dollars ($64,155.20). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public venue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 31st day of May, 2012, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the Village of Nashville, Township of Castleton, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: The South 40 feet of Lot 16, except the East 44 feet thereof, Plat of the Village of Nashville, Village of Nashville, Castleton Township, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Barry County Records. Together with all fixtures, tenements, hereditaments, and appurtenances belonging or in any way appertaining to the premises. Commonly known as: 102 N. Main Street, Nashville, Michigan 49073 P.P. #08-52-000-016-00 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys the premises at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee for damaging the premises during the redemption period. Dated: May 3, 2012 GREENSTONE FARM CREDIT SERVICES, FLCA Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2487 (616) 752-2000 8276572-1 77567472 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Carol L Anglemyer, and Edward F. Akin, as joint tenants with Full rights of Survivorship, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated June 18, 2003, and recorded on June 26, 2003 in instrument 1107200, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Four Thousand Seven Hundred Seventy-Five and 96/100 Dollars ($74,775.96). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 31, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Delton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land in the Northwest 1/4 of Section 20, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, described as: Beginning at the intersection of the North line of Guernsey Lake Road and the West line of Pike Road as Platted in the Plat of Diana Shores, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats on Page 24; Thence South 01 degrees 06 minutes East 33.00 feet to the centerline of Guernsey Lake Road, said Centerline Also Being the East and West 1/4 Line of said Section 20; thence North 89 Degrees 45 minutes West along said East and West 1/4 Line a distance of 261.50 feet; Thence North 01 Degrees 06 minutes West 407.00 feet; Thence South 89 Degrees 45 minutes East 261.50 feet to the West line of said Pike Road; Thence South 01 Degrees 06 minutes East along said West line 374.00 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 3, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #400120F01 77567406 (05-03)(05-24) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Bruce A Irwin and Sandra L Irwin, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated May 4, 2007, and recorded on May 8, 2007 in instrument 1180284, and assigned by said Mortgagee to PHH Mortgage Corporation as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Five Thousand One Hundred Thirty-Seven and 24/100 Dollars ($75,137.24). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 10, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: PARCEL L-3: Commencing at the southeast corner of Section 33, town 2 North, Range 9 West; Running thence North 89 degrees 47 minutes 45 seconds West 1410.00 feet along the South line of Section 33; thence North 00 degrees 00 minutes 05 seconds East 664.00 feet parallel with the East line of the Southeast 1/4 of said Section 33, and along the West line of a 66 foot private Easement for ingress and egress and utilities in common with others for the True Place of beginning of this description; thence continuing North 00 degrees 00 minutes 05 seconds East 332.00 feet; thence South 89 degrees 32 minutes 04 seconds East 320.01 feet; thence South 00 Degrees 00 minutes 05 seconds West 331.51 feet; thence North 89 degrees 37 minutes 20 seconds West 320.01 feet to the Place of beginning. Together with rights in said easement and subject to extension thereof over the west 66 feet of the above described parcel. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #396800F01 77567065 (04-12)(05-03) SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by LONNIE L. WRATE and EVELYN D. WRATE, HUSBAND AND WIFE, to MAINSTREET SAVINGS BANK, FSB, Mortgagee, dated November 2, 2009, and recorded on November 4, 2009, in Document No. 200911040010803, and assigned by said mortgagee to MICHIGAN STATE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Four Thousand Four Hundred Sixty-One Dollars and Fifty-Six Cents ($84,461.56), including interest at 6.625% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on May 10, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: BEGINNING AT THE NORTH 1 / 4 POST OF SECTION 2, TOWN 3 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, RUTLAND TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN; THENCE EAST 402.47 FEET ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SAID SECTION 2; THENCE SOUTH 00 DEGREES 14 MINUTES 01 SECONDS EAST 290.00 FEET; THENCE WEST 401.94 FEET; THENCE NORTH 00 DEGREES 20 MINUTES 20 SECONDS WEST 290.00 FEET ALONG THE NORTH AND SOUTH 1 / 4 LINE OF SAID SECTION 2 TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. MICHIGAN STATE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 USBW.001427 (0406778600 12)(05-03) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Joseph Steffler and Brooke Steffler, husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated September 8, 2006 and recorded October 26, 2006 in Instrument Number 1171927, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by PNC Bank, N.A. by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Three Thousand Four Hundred Two and 40/100 Dollars ($133,402.40) including interest at 6.75% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on MAY 17, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Maple Grove, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 27, Town 2 North, Range 7 West, described as: Commencing at the North 1/4 corner of said Section; thence South 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East 273.14 feet along the North line of said Northeast 1/4 to the place of beginning; thence South 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East 548.0 feet along said North line; thence South 00 degrees 29 minutes 53 seconds East 400.00 feet along the East line of the West 50 acres of said Northeast 1/4; thence North 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West 548.0 feet; thence North 00 degrees 29 minutes 53 seconds West 400.0 feet to the place of beginning. Also described for tax purposes as: Commencing North 1/4 post Section 27, thence East 273.41 feet to point of beginning; thence East 548 feet, thence South 0 degrees 29 minutes 53 seconds East 400 feet, thence West 526 feet, thence North 29 degrees 53 minutes West 400 feet to point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: April 19, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 2485022633 File No. 401.0707 77567187 (04-19)(05-10) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Lynne R. Miller, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated February 11, 2010, and recorded on February 18, 2010 in instrument 201002180001458, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Branch Banking and Trust Company as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Forty-Two Thousand Seven Hundred Fifty and 98/100 Dollars ($42,750.98). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 31, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 18, Cloverdale, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 30, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 3, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #397380F01 77567425 (05-03)(05-24) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by James Gibson and Laura Gibson, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Metro Finance its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated October 17, 2007, and recorded on November 13, 2007 in instrument 200711130004091, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fifty-Five Thousand Three Hundred Forty-Seven and 79/100 Dollars ($155,347.79). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 17, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel 2: Commencing at the Southeast corner of Section 28, Town 4 North, Range 9 West; thence North 00 degrees 14 minutes 27 seconds West, 1120.13 feet along the East line of said Section 28; thence South 89 degrees 35 minutes 08 Seconds West, 253 feet to the point of beginning; thence North 00 degrees 14 minutes 27 seconds West 370.46 feet; thence South 89 degrees 39 minutes 30 seconds West 178.85 feet; thence South 00 degrees 14 minutes 27 seconds East 184.00 feet; thence South 89 degrees 35 minutes 08 Seconds West 41.15 feet; thence South 00 degrees 14 minutes 27 seconds East 186.69 feet; thence North 89 degrees 35 minutes 08 seconds East 220.00 feet to the point of beginning. Together with and subject to an easement for ingress, egress and public utilities described as follows: Beginning at a point on the East line of Section 28, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, distant North 00 degrees 14 minutes 27 seconds West, 1120.13 feet from the Southeast corner of said Section 28; thence South 89 degrees 35 minutes 08 seconds West 781.68 feet; thence Northwesterly, Easterly and Southeasterly 219.33 feet along the arc of a curve to the right, the radius of which is 50.00 feet and the chord of which bears North 35 degrees 15 minutes 15 seconds East 81.24 feet; thence North 89 degrees 35 minutes 08 Seconds East 734.51 feet; thence South 00 degrees 14 minutes 27 seconds East 66.00 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #366171F01 77567160 (04-19)(05-10) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 3, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Stephen M. Beyer, Married Man, and Catherine Beyer, His Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 27, 2009, and recorded on September 2, 2009 in instrument 200909020008888, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ninety-One Thousand Nine Hundred Seventeen and 87/100 Dollars ($191,917.87). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 31, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel A: Beginning at a point on the North-South 1/4 line Section 26, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, Thornapple Township, Barry County, Michigan, distant South 00 degrees 27 minutes 36 seconds West, 845.29 feet from the North 1/4 corner of said Section; thence North 80 degrees 42 minutes 21 seconds East, 801.52 feet to the centerline of Irving Road; thence South 41 degrees 29 minutes 30 seconds East, 449.81 feet along said centerline; thence South 43 degrees 36 minutes 25 seconds East, 50.12 feet along said centerline; thence South 48 degrees 30 minutes 30 seconds West 1513.35 feet to the North-South 1/4 line of said Section; thence North 00 degrees 27 minutes 36 seconds East, 1246.43 feet along said 1/4 line to the Point of Beginning. Subject to an easement for public highway purposes over the Northeasterly 33.00 feet thereof for Irving Road, and any other easements of restrictions of record. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 3, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #399782F01 77567400 (05-03)(05-24) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by OWEN J. SABIN and CARLEEN R. SABIN, husband and wife (collectively “Mortgagor”), to FIFTH THIRD BANK an Ohio banking corporation having its principal office at 111 Lyon Street, NW, Suite 900, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503, (the “Mortgagee”), dated December 17, 2003 and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on January 2, 2004, in Instrument No. 1120158 as modified in Instrument No. 1162170 (collectively the “Mortgage”). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Two Hundred Thirty-Seven Two Hundred Thirty-Four and 00/100 Dollars ($237,234.00). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the Barry County Courthouse located in the City of Hastings, Michigan on Thursday, June 7, 2012, at 1:00 o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the Township of Yankee Springs, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: Begin 100.0 feet North of the South 1/4 post of Section 8, Town 3 North, Range 10 West, Yankee Springs Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence South 89 degrees 40 minutes West 738.15 feet to the center of creek; thence North 12 degrees 12 minutes West 336.0 feet along center of creek to a 4" concrete monument which is set in the bank about 20 feet East of the center of creek (center of creek is to be the boundary line, however); thence North 54 degrees 12 minutes West 166.10 feet along center of creek to an iron under an old foot bridge; thence North 23 degrees 06 minutes West 311.8 feet along center of creek to a 4" diameter concrete monument; thence South 65 degrees 07 minutes West 39.4 feet; thence North 23 degrees 06 minutes West 93.00 feet to the edge of the Mill Pond; thence North 59 degrees 10 minutes East 70.0 feet along edge of Mill Pond; thence North 21 degrees 51 minutes East 42.0 feet; thence North 19 degrees 31 minutes West 44.0 feet to the edge of the Mill Pond; thence North 54 degrees 07 minutes West 15.15 feet to a 4" diameter concrete monument a few feet from edge of Mill Pond and is the South boundary of the Springer (O'Dell) property; thence North 71 degrees 02 minutes East 163.6 feet to the center of public road which leads from the North to Bowens Mill; thence North 05 degrees 52 minutes 30 seconds East 104.37 feet; thence South 84 degrees 07 minutes 30 seconds East 206.0 feet; thence North 06 degrees 45 minutes East 377.6 feet; thence South 77 degrees 26 minutes East 342.07 feet; thence South 75 degrees East 350.46 feet; thence South 1249.50 feet along the North-South 1/4 line of said Section 8 to the Case No. 11-466-CH Notice of Judicial Foreclosure Sale on a Default Judgment and Judgment of Foreclosure Against Defendants Teresa J. Lindsey, f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker and Shana Ciampa NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to the terms of a Default Judgment and Judgment of Foreclosure of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan signed and filed on January 17, 2012, in the case of Eaton Federal Savings Bank, Plaintiff v Teresa J. Lindsey, f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker and Shana Ciampa, Defendants, Case No. 11-466-CH, wherein, among other things, the Court allowed the foreclosure of a mortgage granted by Teresa J. Lindsey f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker (Mortgagor) to Eaton Federal Savings Bank on September 27, 2007 and recorded October 4, 2007 at Instrument No. 200710040002745, pages 1 through 10, Barry County Records, against the Mortgagor. Pursuant to the Default Judgment and Judgment for Foreclosure, the mortgaged premises shall be sold at a public auction by or under the direction of Clerk or Sheriff for the County of Barry to the highest bidder at the main entrance to the Barry County Courthouse, 220 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 on Thursday, May 17, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., local time. The following described “Mortgaged Premises”: Parcel 1: Lot 13 of Standley’s First Addition to Fine Lake Park, Johnstown Township, Barry County, Michigan, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, on Page 31, Also, beginning at the Southeast corner of Lot 13 of Standley’s First Addition to Fine Lake Park, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, on Page 31; thence North 26 degrees East along the Easterly line of Lots 13 and 14 of said Plat, 100.00 feet, thence South 82 degrees 54 minutes East 50.00 feet; thence South 26 degrees West, 100.00 feet; thence North 82 degrees 54 minutes West 50.00 feet to the point of beginning. Parcel 2: Beginning at the Southwest corner of Lot 8 of Fine Lake Park, Johnstown Township, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof; thence Northeasterly along the East Shore of Fine Lake to a point 10 feet from said place of beginning; thence Easterly to a point on the Easterly line of said Lot which is 3 feet North of the Southeast corner of said Lot; thence Southerly along the East line of said Lot to the Southeast corner thereof; thence Westerly along the South line of said Lot to the place of beginning. The Mortgaged Premises, whose address is 823 East Shore Drive, Battle Creek, Michigan, 49017, also include all right, title and interests held by Teresa J. Lindsey f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker as of September 27, 2007, in the Mortgaged Premises. The Premises may be redeemed during the six (6) months following the date of sale. BODMAN PLC By: Sandra L. Jasinski (P37430) Attorneys for Eaton Federal Savings Bank 229 Court Street, P.O. Box 405 Cheboygan, Michigan 49721 (231) 627-8000 Date: March 29, 2012 Dates of publication: March 29, April 5, 12, 19, 26, 77566696 May 3, and 10, 2012. place of beginning. Subject to an easement over the East 33 feet for highway purposes. Also all land along the Mill Pond between the markers and edge of the Mill Pond is part of this conveyance and all land along the East side of the creek between the markers and the creek is part of this conveyance, excepting therefrom commencing at the South 1/4 post of Section 8, Town 3 North, Range 10 West; thence North 1097.75 feet for a place of beginning; thence North 251.75 feet; thence North 75 degrees West 350.46 feet; thence North 77 degrees 26 minutes West 342.07 feet; thence South 06 degrees 45 minutes West 251.75 feet, (Bowens Mills Church Property); thence Southeasterly in a straight line to the place of beginning. Subject to an easement over the East 33 feet of this description along Briggs Road for public highway purposes, also excepting therefrom the South 488 feet thereof. Together with all of the estate, title and interest of Mortgagor, in law or equity, of, in and to such real estate and the buildings and improvements now existing, being constructed, or hereafter constructed or placed thereon, all of the rights, privileges, licenses, easements and appurtenances belonging to such real estate (including - all heretofore or hereafter vacated streets or alleys which are about such real estate), and all fixtures of every kind whatsoever located in or on, or attached to, and used or intended to be used in connection with or with the operation of such real estate, buildings, structures or other improvements thereon or in connection with any construction now or to be conducted or which may be conducted thereon, together with all building materials and equipment now or hereafter delivered to such real estate and intended to be installed therein; any rental revenues, payments, repayments. income, profits, charges. accounts, general intangibles, and moneys derived by Mortgagor (from the lease, sublease, sale, rental or other disposition of the Property, including, but not limited to, all rights conferred by Act No. 210 of the Michigan Public Acts of 1953, as amended (MCLA 554.231 et seq.), and Act No. 228 of the Michigan Public Acts of 1925 as amended (MCLA 554.211 et seq.) Commonly known as: 200 Old Mill Road, Middleville, Michigan P.P. # 08-16-008-020-50 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) stating that the premises are considered abandoned unless Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them gives the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys the premises at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee for damaging the premises during the redemption period. Dated: May 3, 2012 FIFTH THIRD BANK Mortgagee Jeffrey O. Birkhold WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2489 (616) 752-2000 8276021 77567517 STATE OF MICHIGAN 5TH CIRCUIT COURT-FAMILY DIVISION COUNTY OF BARRY PUBLICATION OF HEARING CASE NO. 12-8432-NA PETITION NO. 12008292 IN THE MATTER OF: KATHLEEN IRENE OLIVIA LOWERY (DOB: 10/01/2010) A Neglect Petition has been filed in the above matter regarding: KATHLEEN OLIVIA LOWERY. DOB. 10-1-10. A TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS HEARING is scheduled for TUESDAY, MAY 15, 2012 AT 11:00 A.M. And will be held at Barry County Trial Court Family Division, 206 W. Court St. Ste. 302, Hastings, MI 49058. IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED THAT LEONARD PAUL LOWERY II personally appear before the Court at the time and place stated above. Failure to attend the hearing will constitute a denial of interest in the minor, a waiver of notice for all subsequent hearings, a waiver of right to appointment of an attorney, which could result in TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS. 77567315 Dated: April 26, May 3, 10, 2012 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Matthew W Spencer and Anne K Spencer, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Polaris Home Funding Corp., its successors or assigns, Mortgagee, dated March 1, 2008 and recorded March 13, 2008 in Instrument Number 20080313-002327, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Thousand Four Hundred Sixty and 7/100 Dollars ($200,460.07) including interest at 5.75% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on MAY 17, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the Township of Rutland, County of Barry, State of Michigan: Beginning at a point on the East-West 1/4 line of Section 17, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, distant West 1322.82 feet from the East 1/4 post of said Section 17; thence South 01 degrees 16 minutes 10 seconds East 536.51 feet along the East line of the West 1/2 of the Southeast 1/4 of said Section 17; thence West, 164.27 feet parallel with said 1/4 line; thence North 66 degrees 33 minutes 37 seconds West, 33.82 feet; thence North 36 degrees 04 minutes 29 seconds East, 60.64 feet; thence North 07 degrees 57 minutes 58 seconds West, 103.67 feet; thence North 35 degrees 58 minutes 26 seconds West 138.54 feet; thence North 42 degrees 35 minutes 35 seconds East 33.66 feet; thence North 14 degrees 51 minutes 00 seconds East 242.44 feet thence East, 158.52 feet along said East-West 1/4 line to the place of beginning. Together with and subject to an easement for private roadway and public utility purposes to be used jointly with others over a strip of land 66 feet wide, 33 feet each side of the centerline described as: Beginning at a point on the East and West 1/4 line of Section 17, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, distant West 1906.85 feet from the East 1/4 post of said Section 17; thence South 00 degrees 20 minutes 48 seconds West, 112.79 feet; thence South 84 degrees 20 minutes 58 seconds East, 126.10 feet; thence South 58 degrees 49 minutes 45 seconds East, 259.10 feet; thence South 35 degrees 58 minutes 26 seconds East, 138.54 feet; thence South 07 degrees 57 minutes 28 seconds East,103.67 feet; thence South 36 degrees 04 minutes 29 seconds West, 60.64 feet to the end of said described easement. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: April 19, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 682.2477 77567211 (04-19)(05-10) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Kyle Main, single man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 1, 2005, and recorded on July 6, 2005 in instrument 1149102, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Flagstar Bank, FSB as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fourteen Thousand One Hundred NinetyOne and 34/100 Dollars ($114,191.34). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 24, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Baltimore, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel 1: Beginning 8 rods East of the Southwest corner of Section 34, Town 2 North, Range 8 West, Baltimore Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence North 40 Rods, thence East 4 Rods; thence South 40 rods, thence West 4 rods to the place of beginning Parcel 2: Beginning 12 rods East of the Southwest corner of Section 34, Town 2 North, Range 8 West, Baltimore Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence North 40 rods, thence East 4 Rods; thence South 40 rods; thence West 4 rods to the place of beginning The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #274135F02 (04-26)(05-17) 77567256 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Mitchell L. Phelps, a married man and Theresa Phelps, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Lake Michigan Credit Union, Mortgagee, dated July 24, 2007, and recorded on July 31, 2007 in instrument 200707310000343, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Four Thousand One Hundred Seventeen and 74/100 Dollars ($94,117.74). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 24, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A Parcel of land on the Northeast 1/4 of Section 14, Town 4 North, Range 8 West, commencing at the Northeast corner of the Northwest 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4; Section 14; thence South 666 feet for the place of beginning, thence West 175 feet; thence South 200 feet; thence East 175 feet; thence North 200 feet, to the place of beginning. And Commencing at the North 1/4 corner of Section 14, Town 4 North, Range 8 West, Carlton Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East, 1056.00 feet along the North line of said Section;thence South 666 feet for the place of beginning thence South 00 degrees 46 minutes 27 seconds East, 89.00 feet; thence South 00 degrees 46 minutes 27 seconds West, 200.00 feet; thence South 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West, 89 feet; thence North 00 degrees 46 minutes 27 seconds East, 200 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #398935F01 77567262 (04-26)(05-17) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by William Humphreys, by Beverly Louise Humphreys as Attorney in Fact and Beverly Humphreys, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 10, 2003, and recorded on August 13, 2003 in instrument 1110831, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy Thousand One Hundred TwentyFive and 57/100 Dollars ($70,125.57). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 17, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 4 and 5 of Block 1 of Chamberlains Addition to the City, formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats on Page 7. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #398819F01 (04-19)(05-10) 77567192 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Jill L. Plowman, an unmarried woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Amerifirst Financial Corporation its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated October 12, 2010, and recorded on October 26, 2010 in instrument 201010260009979, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Eight Thousand Two Hundred and 13/100 Dollars ($138,200.13). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 17, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Assyria, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The South 1/2 of the West 1/2 of the Southwest fractional 1/4 of the Southwest fractional 1/4 of Section 18, Town 1 North, Range 7 West except all that certain piece of parcel of land commencing at the Southwest corner of Section 18, Town 1 North, Range 7 West; thence North 220.83 feet; thence East 579.50 feet; thence South 224.17 feet; thence West 578.50 feet to the Place of Beginning. Also the North 1/2 of the West 1/2 of the Southwest fractional 1/4 of the Southwest fractional 1/4 of Section 18, Town 1 North, Range 7 West. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #392735F01 77567182 (04-19)(05-10) See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits �Page 12 — Thursday, May 3, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF A MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on January 10, 2007, by Kent R. Laubaugh, a single man, as Mortgagor, given by him to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on January 18, 2007, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 1175215, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank by assignment dated November 9, 2010, recorded on November 18, 2010, in Instrument Number 201011180010850, Barry County Records, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of Twenty-Five Thousand Seven Hundred Eighty-Four and 96/100 Dollars ($25,784.96); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, May 17, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF RUTLAND, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: The NW quarter of the NE quarter of the SW quarter of Section 16, T3N, R9W, Rutland Township, Barry County, Michigan. Commonly known as: 567 S. Irving Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058 Tax parcel number: 0813-016-014-10. The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: April 4, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 77567083 48933 (517) 371-8253 (04-12)(05-03) MORTGAGE SALE This is an attempt to collect a debt, and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by JEFFREY L. WILLIAMS and JAMIE L. SANMIGUEL, husband and wife, Mortgagors, to MERCANTILE BANK MORTGAGE COMPANY, LLC, having its principal office at 310 Leonard Street NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504, Mortgagee, dated December 4, 2007 and recorded December 21, 2007 in Instrument No. 20071221-0005432 of Mortgages. By reason of such default the undersigned elects to declare the entire unpaid amount of said mortgage due and payable forthwith. At the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on said mortgage the sum of TWO HUNDRED TWENTY THREE THOUSAND SEVEN HUNDRED SEVENTY SIX AND 88/100 ($223,776.88) dollars, including interest at the rate of 7% per annum. No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided and to pay said amount with interest as provided in said mortgage, and all legal costs, charges, and expenses, including attorney fees allowed by law, said mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the east door of the Barry County Courthouse, the place of holding the Circuit Court within the County of Barry, City of Hastings, Michigan, on May 31, 2012, at 1:00 p.m., local time. Pursuant to Public Act No. 104, Public Acts of 1971 [MCLA 600.3240(8), MSA 27A.3240(8)] the redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of the foreclosure sale, unless the property is determined to be abandoned under MCLA 600.3241a; MSA 27A.3241(1), in which case the property may be redeemed during the 30 days immediately following the sale or expiration of statutory notice period or expiration of statutory notice period. The premises covered by said mortgage are situated in the Township of Orangeville, County of Barry, State of Michigan, described as follows, to wit: Lots 132 and 133, Lynden Johncock Plat No. 1, Gun Lake, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats, Page 93, records of Barry County. MERCANTILE BANK MORTGAGE COMPANY, LLC Mortgagee SCHENK BONCHER & RYPMA Gary P. Schenk P19970 601 Three Mile Road, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49544-1601 (616) 647-8277 77567310 Call anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 SOCIAL SECURITY, continued from pg. 6 addition to monthly Social Security benefits if your Social Security benefit amount is low enough for you to qualify. Whether you can get SSI benefits depends on your income and resources (the things you own). Social Security benefits you receive can make a difference in SSI eligibility and the amount you may be entitled to. You can find out more about the SSI program by going to www.socialsecurity.gov and selecting the SSI tab. What are the limits on what I can own to be eligible for Supplemental Security Income? You may be able to get SSI benefits if your resources are worth no more than $2,000. A couple may be able to get SSI benefits if they have resources worth no more than $3,000. We count real estate, bank accounts, cash, stocks, and bonds toward the limits on what you can own. Social Security does not count the home you live in and the land it is on, your car, or some funds and plots set aside for burial. Learn more at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10035.html. How do I apply for disability benefits? Apply online at www.socialsecurity.gov; or call our toll-free number, 800-772-1213, to make an appointment to apply for benefits at your local Social Security office or to set up an appointment for someone to take your application over the telephone. Get a head start by checking out the online Disability Starter Kit. The Disability Starter Kit is available at www.socialsecurity.gov/disability. Who decides whether I can get disability benefits? First, Social Security will review your application to make sure you meet the basic eligibility requirements for disability benefits. We will check whether you worked enough years to qualify. Also, we will evaluate any current work. If you meet these requirements, we will send your application to the Disability Determination Services office. This state agency evaluates your medical condition and makes the disability decision for us. Doctors and disability specialists in the state agency ask your doctors for information about your condition. They consider all the facts in your case. They use the medical evidence from your doctors and hospitals, clinics, or institutions where you have been treated and all other informa- tion. Learn more about disability benefits at www.socialsecurity.gov/disability. Where can I go to find general information about Medicare benefits? Social Security determines whether people are entitled to Medicare benefits, but the program is administered by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. You can visit CMS’s Medicare website at www.medicare.gov, or call 800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227). Online or by phone, you can find answers to all your Medicare questions at CMS. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. LEGAL NOTICES FORECLOSURE NOTICE RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES, P.C. MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. Mortgage Sale - Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by Robin M. Fletcher and James J. Fletcher, Jr. Wife and Husband to United States of America acting through the United States Department of Agriculture, herein called the Government, Mortgagee, dated April 15, 1996, and recorded on April 17, 1996, in Liber 657, Page 291, Barry County Records, , on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Eight Thousand Four Hundred Fifty-One and 59/100 ($78,451.59) including interest at the rate of 6.75000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the Circuit Court in said Barry County, where the premises to be sold or some part of them are situated, at 01:00 PM on May 10, 2012 Said premises are situated in the Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land in the Southwest quarter of Section 2, Town 1 North, Range 10 West, beginning at a point which lies 878 feet due East and North 33 degrees 05 minutes East 462.80 feet from Southwest corner of said Section 2, thence North 56 degrees 55 minutes West 156 feet, thence North 33 degrees 5 minutes East 227.87 feet, thence due East 186.19 feet, thence South 33 degrees 5 minutes West 330 feet to point of beginning; except the Southeasterly 33 feet for road. Commonly known as: 10944 S Norris Road If the property is eventually sold at foreclosure sale, the redemption period will be 6.00 months from the date of sale unless the property is abandoned or used for agricultural purposes. If the property is determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 and/or 600.3241a, the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of sale, or 15 days after statutory notice, whichever is later. If the property is presumed to be used for agricultural purposes prior to the date of the foreclosure sale pursuant to MCL 600.3240, the redemption period is 1 year. Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages are, if any, limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: April 12, 2012 Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for United States of America acting through the United States Department of Agriculture, herein called the Government 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302, (248) 335-9200 Case 06778605 No. 12MI00596-1 (04-12)(05-03) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Heather R. Tuffs and Jim Tuffs, wife and husband, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated June 14, 2005, and recorded on June 29, 2005 in instrument 1148767, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Four Thousand Six Hundred Fifty-Two and 62/100 Dollars ($104,652.62). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 24, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The East 1/2 of Lots 2 and 3 and all of Lot 7 of Block 25 of I.N. Keeler's Addition to the Village of Middleville, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 12, Barry County Records The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #395582F01 77567352 (04-26)(05-17) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Stacy L. Johnson and Dean R. Johnson wife and husband, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated December 28, 2007, and recorded on January 2, 2008 in instrument 20080102-0000107, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Flagstar Bank, FSB as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixteen Thousand Two Hundred Seventy-Four and 07/100 Dollars ($116,274.07). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 31, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The West 57 feet of Lots 4 and 5, and the West 56 feet of Lot 3, all in Block 3, of A.W. Phillips Addition to the Village of Nashville, according to the recorded Plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 3, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #297864F02 77567412 (05-03)(05-24) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Dennis Ayers, a married man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 9, 2004, and recorded on July 20, 2004 in instrument 1131097, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Wells Fargo Bank, NA as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fifty-Three Thousand Three Hundred Seventy-Six and 90/100 Dollars ($153,376.90). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 24, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That part of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 17, Town 3 North, Range 10 West, Yankee Springs Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as : Commencing at the West 1/4 corner of said Section; thence North 89 degrees 40 minutes 09 seconds East 300.0 feet along the South line of said Northwest 1/4 to the place of beginning; thence North 89 degrees 40 minutes 09 seconds East 200.0 feet along said South line; thence North 00 degrees 44 minutes West 627.11 feet parallel with the West line of said Northwest 1/4; thence South 88 degrees 02 minutes 54 seconds West 200.04 feet; thencee South 00 degrees 44 minutes East 621.45 feet to the place of beginning The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #399501F01 77567268 (04-26)(05-17) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Shirley Little a/k/a Shirley A. Little, by Lorenna Jo Wright, her power of attorney and William F. Little, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 24, 2008, and recorded on August 22, 2008 in instrument 20080822-0008487, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Seven Thousand Thirteen and 59/100 Dollars ($97,013.59). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 17, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 8 Block 7, of the Eastern Addition to the City, formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded Plat thereof, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #398979F01 06778628 (04-19)(05-10) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Shane A. Rugg, an unmarried man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for AmeriFirst Financial Corporation, its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated January 29, 2010, and recorded on February 4, 2010 in instrument 201002040001028, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ninety-Three Thousand Fifty-Eight and 03/100 Dollars ($193,058.03). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 10, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Assyria, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The Northwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 and the West 1/2 of the East 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 12, Town 1 North, Range 7 West. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #374743F03 77567059 (04-12)(05-03) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Dale Cheeseman and Audra Cheeseman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registrations Systems, Inc., as nominee for Novastar Mortgage, Inc. its successors and assigns., Mortgagee, dated May 12, 2006, and recorded on June 7, 2006 in instrument 1165690, and assigned by said Mortgagee to U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for J.P. Morgan Mortgage Acquisition Trust 2006-HE3, Asset Backed Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2006-HE3 as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Four Thousand Five Hundred SeventyNine and 09/100 Dollars ($104,579.09). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 17, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 1256 of the City, formerly Village of Hastings, according to the Recorded plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #375543F01 06778622 (04-19)(05-10) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Kenneth Cogswell a married man and Holly Cogswell a married women, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated February 17, 2003, and recorded on March 14, 2003 in instrument 1099484, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Chase Home Finance, LLC as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Fifty-Eight Thousand Six Hundred SeventyNine and 15/100 Dollars ($58,679.15). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 24, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 30 and 31 of Hardendorf Addition to the Village of Nashville, according to the recorded Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 74. Also, The South 1/2 of Lots 32 and 33 of the Plat of the Hardendorf Addition to the Village of Nashville, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 74 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #399284F01 77567359 (04-26)(05-17) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 3, 2012 — Page 13 Mikaela Twigg (left) and Isaiah Taylor are named Young Citizens for the month of April at Central Elementary. They are joined by teacher Michelle Benningfield. Hastings Middle School Young Citizens for April are (from left) Glenn Kohn, Kayleigh Collins, Kayla Carlson, Brittney Wellman and Jordyn Coats. Hastings Exchange Club announces April Young Citizens LUCKY FARMER, continued from page 9 Clinton (Violet) Kelley, Route 6, Hastings; Mrs. James (Ella) Durbin, Route 5, Hastings, and Mrs. Gordon (Edna) Cota, 428 E. Marshall. ***** Hastings Banner, March 13, 1952 Southeastern Elementary School’s Young Citizens for April are Rylee Andrews (left) and Isaac Evans, pictured here with teacher Trisha Kietzman. Named Young Citizens for April at Star Elementary School are (front, from left) Justin McManamey and Claire Anderson, joined by teachers (back) Dawn Secord and Julie Carlson. Courting danger every day Daisy Campbell (left) and Miya Phillips, pictured here with teacher Alice Gergen, are the Young Citizens for April at Northeastern Elementary School. Leah Hawthorne (left) Leigha Saur are St. Rose School’s Young Citizens for April. They are joined by teacher Amy Murphy. by Dr. E. Kirsten Peters You have certainly done business on them, and you may well have lived within their boundaries. Whether you recognize it or not, and whether you are reading this in the desert West or the soggier regions of the country, floodplains are a part of the landscape around you — and they can be highly dangerous places to be. A floodplain is the flat part of the Earth beside and around a river. It’s also the place on which we like to build houses and schools and stores because it’s easier to build on flat ground than a steep hillside. Especially in the old days, when materials came by boat to a town, or perhaps by railroads (built on level floodplains because train engines don’t pull railroad cars up steep ground), entire towns were built on floodplains, with hills around them sometimes left less populated. It’s a recipe that works well enough, most days. But when conditions change away from the normal, of course, it’s disaster for whole towns and their inhabitants. A river can only move so much water downstream at a particular point per minute. If it’s full to the brim and moving as fast as it can, it doesn’t have the capacity for more. The technical term is “bankfull” and the stream cannot accommodate more water than that without flooding. A flood is a natural event in which the stream simply occupies the floodplain as well as the stream channel. To put it another way, the floodplain is a natural part of the stream system. It’s just a part of the system that a stream or river occupies only occasionally, rather than every day. But that’s the part it’s tough for us humans to graciously accept. We see flat land and we tend to start building: hotels, stores, hospitals, libraries and more. Most of the time, we get by reasonably well with our decisions of where to locate our installations, ranging from concrete monstrosities to basic campgrounds. But from time to time we see on the news another example of how a stream can flood, including the special and terrifying case called a flash-flood. In a normal flood, water overtops its banks in a fairly predictable way, one in which the authorities can warn people about. Indeed, the flooding of a major river is a disaster often recorded in slow motion. Flash floods are very different because they hit so quickly. They often affect smaller streams. If a deluge occurs above part of such a stream, the water level will rise rapidly. In the June 2010 case of the flash flood in Arkansas that killed campers along the Caddo and Little Missouri rivers, water levels rose as swiftly as eight feet an hour. Because the rainstorm — a true Noah-like deluge — occurred in the night, people never saw it coming. Even if they had been awakened by warning bells of some sort, many of them still would have lost their lives because the side slopes of the hills they were in were so steep and some of the roads out of the area were blocked by floodwaters. The violence of the torrent increased as the night went along — with asphalt being torn off roads by the currents at one point. Flash floods occur in the driest deserts, too. That’s because of two factors. One is that rainfall in deserts tends to be either non-existent or extreme. In other words, there aren’t many gentle rains in the desert. And the ground in the desert is often covered with a crust-like material that slows or even prevents water from percolating into the ground — natural pavement, if you will. So if you camp in the desert this spring or summer be sure — doubly sure — not to pitch your tent in an arroyo or any other type of dry stream” That’s been a fatal mistake made by too many people not thinking of what heavy rainstorms upstream can mean for local conditions. Dr. E. Kirsten Peters, a native of the rural Northwest, was trained as a geologist at Princeton and Harvard universities. Follow her online at rockdoc.wsu.edu and on Twitter @RockDocWSU. This column is a service of the College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences at Washington State University. Eighth Lucky Farm is well known to Barry residents The eighth farm to be pictured in the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz sponsored by the Banner and 35 Barry County merchants is one wellknown to many residents. The farm, now operated by Mr. and Mrs. Donald Proefrock, Route 4, Hastings [Baltimore Township], and located seven miles south of Hastings and M-37, is best known as the Cary Edmonds farm. It is also known as being near the spot where the B-24 bomber crashed Aug. 14, 1942, at 10:15 p.m. in a heavy rainstorm, killing its crew of five officers and four enlisted men. The plane, on a training flight from Willow Run, crashed in a cornfield near what was the home of Guy Schermerhorn and the wreckage was strewn onto the Proefrock farm. The mangled bodies of the crew were thrown clear and were not touched when the gasoline in the plane exploded. [A story on local residents recalling the incident was published in the Nov. 8, 2011, Banner.] The farm is now owned by Don’s mother, Mrs. E. W. Proefrock, who resides in Kalamazoo. Don and his wife, Harriett, rent from her. Don’s father, Eckhart, died in September 1945. Mr. and Mrs. Eckhart Proefrock purchased the farm in 1934 and moved on to the place. Don finished his senior year at Hastings High and was graduated in 1935, and Harriett was graduated here in 1942. Harriett’s parents are Mr. and Mrs. Harry Babcock, Route 1, Dowling, pioneer Baltimore Township farmers. The Babcocks originally moved to the family homestead in 1885 and Harriett was born on the farm. She married Don in November 1947. Don took over the operation of the farm when his farther was taken to the hospital during his fatal illness, and since then has worked the 15 1/2 acres besides renting between 30 and 40 additional acres each year. The Proefrocks have a herd of 35 registered and grade Holsteins and at the present time milk 17 for the Battle Creek market. Don has worked toward developing a registered herd. They also raise chickens. Intent on operating on a business-like basis, Don and Harriett keep accurate accounts of all revenue and expenditures under the Michigan State College Extension System. The Proefrocks, like most modern farmers, have many outside interests in addition to their agricultural work. Don is a member of the Farm Bureau board of directors and is secretary-treasurer of the Barry-Dowling ABA. He can be seen Friday and Saturday nights in the dramatic production being staged by the Dowling Boosters club, “A Ready-Made Family,” to be staged in the Dowling Methodist Church basement beginning at 8 p.m. each evening. Harriett, with 15-month-old Suzanne, right now is understandably generally a housewife but she has been active in community work, the hospital guild and other endeavors. One of her favorite hobbies is being a pen pal to persons in foreign lands and has pen pals in England, France and Germany. She receives many grand and unusual gifts, and “just scads” of perfumes. She has even received miniature bottles of French cordials. �Page 14 — Thursday, May 3, 2012 — The Hastings Banner DK girls make it eight in a row Delton Kellogg’s varsity girls’ soccer team ran its Kalamazoo Valley Association record to 3-1 with an 8-0 win over Maple Valley at Fuller Street Field in Nashville Monday. The Panthers got Three goals from Hannah Phommavongsa and two from Brianna Russell in the win. Delton went up 7-0 in the first half, then finished the game just under six minutes into the second half on a goal by Autumn Russell. Christi Boze and Alea Hammond scored the other first-half goals for Delton. The Panthers got two assists each from Tabitha Nguyen and Aryka Poling. Sarah Rendon and Rachel Parker had one each. The Panthers are now 9-1 overall, and have won eight in a row since a shoot-out loss to Kalamazoo Christian in the KVA opener. They beat Comstock 4-1 in non-conference action Friday. Phommavongsa had two more goals, Nguyen added one and Brianna Russell had one. Phommavongsa and Nguyen each had a goal in the first half as Delton built a 2-0 lead. The Panthers went into the half up 2-1 after a late goal by the Colts’ Del Moral. Poling and Jaime Risner had assists on the first two goals for Delton, while Parker COURT NEWS Ricky Lee Burhans, 43, of Hastings was sentenced April 25 for operating or maintaining a laboratory involving methamphetamine. Burhans was ordered to serve 10 months in jail, with credit for 43 days served, pay $1,948 in assessments and serve 36 months on probation. Burhans must complete drug court, with the last six months of jail suspended upon successful completion. Cognitive behavior therapy and the attainment of a GED also were conditions of his sentence. A payment of $100 per month must be made toward court assessments after his release from jail. A second charge of operating or maintaining a laboratory involving methamphetamine and a charge of conspiracy to deliver or manufacture methamphetamine Delton Kellogg’s Jaime Risner (18) taps the ball ahead before a Pennfield attacker can get to it during Wednesday’s KVA contest in Delton. (Photo by Perry Hardin) or ecstasy were dropped. Bobbie Sue Beach, 32, was sentenced April 26 for unlawful use of a motor vehicle. Beach, of Delton, was ordered to serve 60 days in jail, with credit for one day served. She must pay $1,198 in assessments and serve 12 months on probation. Beach’s driver’s license is suspended. She must attend Alcoholics Anonymous two times per week and pay $150 per month toward court assessments. Charges of unlawful driving away of a motor vehicle; operating with a license suspended or revoked or denied; breaking and entering; and unlawful use of a motor vehicle all were dropped. Vehicle break-ins, vandalism reported in city limits CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 Business Services BASEMENT WATERPROOFING: PROFESSIONAL BASEMENT SERVICES waterproofing, crack repair, mold remediation. Local/licensed. Free estiFREE HEAT & HOT WA- mates. (517)290-5556. TER- Eliminate monthly BOOKKEEPING heating bills with Classic SERVICES Outdoor Wood Furnace Personal * Self-Employed * from Central Boiler. Call Small Business Payroll * SOS your “Stocking Dealer” Dutton, MI (616)554-8669 or Billing Accounts Receivable * Accounts Payable (616)915-5061. General Ledger Weekly * Monthly * QuarFor Rent terly * Annually HOUSE FOR RENT $750 Call today! (269)420-5714 per month plus $500 security deposit to move in. Totally ROY HALL’S AUTO DEremodeled, must see! Call TAILING: 25 years serving Larry (269)945-3489 or Barry County, (269)948-8377. (269)331-9325. AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 Garage Sale Wanted MOVING SALE: LOTS of miscellaneous items. Saturday & Sunday, May 5th & 6th, 9am-6pm, rain or shine. 6522 S. Charlton Park Road, Hastings. BUYING OLD POCKET watches, old wind up wrist watches, working or not working. Call George (616)916-8271 BUYING WWII, WWI, Civil War uniforms, weapons, helLost & Found mets, bayonets, German, LOST BLACK LAB: wear- Japanese, and American. ing yellow collar. $100 re- Call George (616)916-8271 ward his name is BooBoo. NO FEE HAUL AWAY. UnCall Scott (269)547-3739 wanted appliances, scrap metal, automobiles and moRecreation bile home tear down. WANTED HUNTING (269)605-7905. LAND: (2) Families are interested in leasing acreage Estate Sale for this years deer season. ESTATE/MOVING SALES: Call (269)795-3049 by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 Help Wanted 25 DRIVER TRAINEES Needed NOW! Become a driver for Schneider National! Earn $750 per week! No experience needed! Local CDL Training! Job ready in 15 days! 1-877-649-2697. National Ads THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is deceptive, fraudulent or might otherwise violate law or accepted standards of taste. However, this publication does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the quality of goods or services advertised. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made in any advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you ask for money in advance of delivery of goods or services advertised. In Memoriam MEMORIAM In loving memory of Robert C. (Bob) Norris husband, father, grandfather who left us six years ago April 25th, 2006. There’s so much now we cannot see, Our eyes are still so dim; but come what may, we still can trust. And leave it all to him so, if we shed a secret tear and often breathe a sigh, forgive us, for we miss you more. As every day goes by. For by and by the mist will lift. And darkness turns to day; then looking back we’ll praise his name, who led us all the way. Sadly missed by your wife Susan, Danial, Janice, Charlie, Dylan, Douglas, Noah and Samuel DO YOU WANT QUALITY PRINTING at affordable prices? Call J-Ad Graphics at (269)945-9554. earned the assist on each of the Panthers’ second half goals. Christi Gonzalez had five saves in net for the Panthers. Pennfield built a 4-1 first-half lead at home against Pennfield Wednesday, and went on to a 5-1 win. Brianna Russell scored twice in the first ten minutes, off assists from Phommavongsa and Rendon. Nguyen and Risner added goals for Delton before the half, with assists going to Gonzalez and Phommavongsa. Phommavongsa scored the only goal of the second half, ten minutes after the break. Delton Kellogg’s girls were scheduled to host Olivet Wednesday. They’ll be back in action at Allegan Friday, then close out the KVA regular season at home against Parchment May 9. POLICE BEAT Banner CLASSIFIEDS For Sale Delton Kellogg goalie Samantha Gonzalez leaps up to thwart a Pennfield corner kick during her team’s 5-1 win over the visiting green and gold Panthers Wednesday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Sarah Rendon carries the ball ahead for Delton during Wednesday’s KVA contest with Pennfield. (Photo by Perry Hardin) LHS girls start league play with 5-0 loss to the Cougars by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Lansing Catholic scored two quick goals in each half and finished off a 5-0 victory in its Capital Area Activities Conference White Division opener against visiting Lakewood Thursday. The Viking varsity girls’ soccer team falls to 4-2-1 with the loss. “The league coaches pick Catholic to finish top two in the league,” said Viking head coach Paul Gonzales. “To date, this was the best team we have played yet.” Things will be tough Tuesday as well, as the Vikings play their first game on the new soccer field at Lakewood High School against the favorites to win the league title, the Williamston Hornets. Despite the five goals, Gonzales was pleased with his team’s defense. The Cougars scored twice in the first 7:38, putting in a couple of shots from just outside the 18. “At that point we switched up to a new defense we have worked on just a little and did well,” Gonzales said. Lakewood goalkeeper Danielle Kosten made eight saves in the first half, and earned the game ball at the end of the evening from her team. “She made some really great saves for the night. Her vertical was really good and her side-to-side dives were fabulous,” Gonzales said. Lansing Catholic tacked on a third goal with 12:46 left in the first half. The Cougars then added two goals in the first 6:51 of the second half. “Even thought we lost 5-0 defensively we really made some strides,” said Gonzales. “Two girls have now found homes at new positions, as they both looked pretty good at their new positions. A lot of girls had their best games of the year.” As well as the strong performance from Kosten, Gonzales said he was pleased with the all-around game of Kelsey Brown and Chelsie Doran’s efforts at sweeper. During the evening and early morning hours of April 29 and 30, six residents on the northeast side of Hastings awoke to find that several of their vehicles had been burglarized. Numerous windows had been broken out of the vehicles, with one seat being intentionally cut. Several small items and loose change were reportedly taken. Anyone with information concerning these incidents is asked to call the Hastings Police Department or Silent Observer. The party’s over for Dowling man Michigan State troopers responding to a complaint regarding a loud party on Schultz Road April 28 at 3 a.m. saw a vehicle being driven erratically. Troopers stopped the vehicle to investigate and arrested a 20-yearold Dowling man for operating under the influence and possession of marijuana. He was lodged at the Barry County Jail. Son eats and smokes too much A trooper responded April 29 to an alleged domestic assault at a residence on East M-50 in Woodland Township. The caller, a 39-year-old Lake Odessa woman, reported that she had an argument with her 20-year-old son about his lack of employment and his high consumption of food and cigarettes in the home. She told the trooper her son assaulted her, and she fled into the bedroom to call 911. While the mother was locked in the bedroom, the son kicked and damaged the door trying to force his way in. He then began damaging other items in the home, and allegedly assaulted his 17-yearold pregnant girlfriend when she tried to prevent further destruction. The man was arrested on two counts of domestic assault and one count of malicious destruction of property. Man disregards license suspension A Hastings Police officer observed a vehicle stopped April 26 at the traffic light directly in front of Hastings City Hall, which houses the police department. The officer noticed the driver looked quickly away from the officer’s gaze. The driver, a 55-year-old Hastings man, was known to the officer and was thought to have a suspended driver’s license. The officer radioed Central Dispatch and confirmed the man’s license was suspended. The driver was pulled over on South Broadway. When asked why he was driving with a suspended license, the man said he was going to a friend’s house to drink some beer. The officer detected an odor of intoxicants already and noted that the man was only partially dressed. He requested the man perform some field sobriety tests, which he reportedly failed. He was charged with operating while under the influence, second offense. Moving out may mean going to jail Hastings officers were dispatched to the Hastings Shell Station April 26 and met with a victim of an alleged assault. The victim, a 22-year-old Hastings woman, said she and her boyfriend were in the process of splitting up, and he was moving his property out of the house. She said an argument had erupted during which the she had allegedly been pulled from the house and thrown to the ground. The woman told police she had been holding their 1-year-old child at the time. Both the child and the victim were transported to Pennock Hospital where the child was checked for injury. The officer noted the baby had evidence of soil marks where it had struck the ground during the fall. The woman also exhibited visible signs of the assault. An arrest warrant has been obtained for the 26-year-old boyfriend for domestic assault and child abuse. Trail cameras stolen near Delton A Barry County Sheriff’s deputy was dispatched April 22 to a home on Manning Lake Road near Delton. The caller told dispatch two of his trail cameras had been stolen from the woods behind his house. The man also said he had a camera taken in August which he did not report to authorities. The cameras were valued at $430. The man suspected no one. The case is inactive pending more information. Rolled coins taken from under bed Deputies were dispatched to Curtis Road near Nashville April 18 for a reported breaking and entering. The homeowner said he believed a 33-year-old Nashville woman who had been in the house had taken $700 worth of rolled coins. The complainant’s wife had kept the coins in a grocery bag under their bed and noticed the empty bag and some rolled coins under the dog bed. Deputies checked with several area banks to see if someone had turned in a large amount of rolled change, but were told no. The suspect denied taking the money. The case is inactive pending more information. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 3, 2012 — Page 15 Good relays help Scot boys stay perfect in Gold by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Caledonia’s varsity boys’ track and field team improved to 5-0 in the O-K Gold Conference with a 79-58 win over the Thornapple Kellogg boys inside Ralph E. Meyers Stadium in Caledonia Thursday. The Thornapple Kellogg girls bounced back from their loss to Forest Hills Eastern two nights previous, improving to 4-1 in the league with an 82-55 win Thursday. The TK girls are 5-1 in the league now, and the TK boys 2-3-1, after both beat Ottawa Hills in Middleville Tuesday. Caledonia’s boys are 60 now after knocking off Forest Hills Eastern Tuesday. Thornapple Kellogg’s boys won seven of the 13 individual events in Caledonia, but the Fighting Scots took three of the four relays to help clinch the victory. “In the sprint relays, we hit our hand-offs and that helps a lot,” said Caledonia boys’ coach Kevin Remenap. “We have one of our alumni (Maddie Zych) helping us out, and she is kind of our hand-offs coach. She has been working hard with those kids.” Caledonia had the team of Ten Kumapayi, Thomas Andreano, Landon Tompkins and Eddie Kelly win the 400-meter relay in 46.11 seconds, and the team of Andreano, Jalen Burton, Tompkins and Kumapayi win the 800-meter relay in 1 minute 36.87 seconds. “(Zych) spends probably half an hour or 45 minutes at the end of practice working with those boys. It’s just repetition. One of my students said the other day, ‘you don’t practice until you get it right, you practice until you can’t get it wrong.’ That’s about what she’s doing with them. She’s got them pretty well fine-tuned.” The Scots also won the day’s first race, the 3200-meter relay, with the team of Trent Feyen, Alex Farhadi, Jensen Miller and Mason Przybysz winning in 8:52.15. Tyler Patterson added a pair of wins for Caledonia in the field, taking the long jump at 18 feet 4 inches, and the pole vault at 13-0. Andreano was second in the pole vault, clearing 12-0. On the track, Kumapayi won the 100-meter dash in 11.38, Kardo Piromari won the 300meter intermediate hurdles in 42.92, Feyen won the 800 in 2:09.28, and Jake Vaughn led a sweep of the 400-meter dash for the Scots by finishing in 55.00. The sweep of the 400 was big for Caledonia, as was the 1-2 finish in the pole vault, but Remenap was also pleased to have the second and third place finishers behind TK’s Tanin Eckhoff in the 110-meter high hurdles. Eckhoff won that race in 15.10, and added wins in the 200-meter dash (23.64 seconds) and the high jump (6-4), while finishing second to Kumapayi in the 100. TK’s Dustin Brummel edged Przybysz in the two distance races, beating him by just under a second in the 3200-meter run. Brummel finished in 10:03.75 and Przybysz Brummel decides Davenport is the place he wants to run Thornapple Kellogg senior Dustin Brummel (seated center) is joined by (front from left) his mother Renee Brummel, Thornapple Kellogg track and cross country coach Tammy Benjamin, his brother AJ Brummel, Davenport University Men’s Cross Country coach Scott Cook, and his father Lenny Brummel as he signs his National Letter of Intent to join the DU program in the Thornapple Kellogg High School library Tuesday, April 17. (Photo by Brett Bremer) by Brett Bremer Sports Editor A high school runner can’t run any further in a dual meet than Dustin Brummel did April 12, in his team’s O-K Gold Conference competition with Grand Rapids Catholic Central at Houseman Field. He ran a leg of the 32000-meter relay, the 1600-meter run, the 800-meter run and then closed it out running the 3200-meter run. The 3200-meter relay was the only race he didn’t win that day. He said his approach didn’t change at all that day, adding the 800 to an already busy slate of races. “I guess they just threw me in there because they needed more points, and I got stuck doing it now,” he said with a smile. “Just got to go out and win. That’s what they expect.” He still had plenty of energy to end the day running the 3200. “Always,” he said. “I don’t like to lose, so I’ve always got enough to go.” That attitude, and talent, have earned Brummel some more runs. He signed his National Letter of Intent Wednesday (April 17), to join the Davenport University Men’s Cross Country program, and he also plans on running for the DU Men’s Track and Field program as well. Brummel capped off a fine high school cross country career in November by earning his first state medal. He placed 18th at the Division 2 State Finals in Brooklyn, setting a personal record time of 16 minutes 10.4 seconds. It was his second trip to the cross country state finals. Brummel also went to the Division 2 Track and Field State Finals last spring, in the 1600meter run. Two of his big goals for this spring’s track and field season are to set school records in the 800-meter run and the 1600-meter run. Brummel said his love of running, and competing, started at Page Elementary in the fourth and fifth grades. “When we were little we did that track and field day, and I always was really competitive in it. I always wanted to win,” Brummel said. “Ever since that, I just started running and I got good at it.” He chose Davenport as the place to continue his running career in a large part because of its solid reputation as a business school. Thornapple Kellogg alumnus Darrin Tape, now an assistant with the DU Men’s Track and Field program sent Brummel a message early in the cross country season letting him know the DU coaches were interested in him running for the Panthers. Brummel took his official visit to the school this winter, and liked what he found. Keep your friends and relatives INFORMED! Send them The BANNER To subscribe, call us at... 269-945-9554 Thornapple Kellogg’s Casey Lawson races towards a third-place finish in the 3200-meter run during Thursday’s O-K Gold Conference dual at Caledonia. (Photo by Brett Bremer) in 10:04.73. Brummel was a little further ahead in the 1600, winning in 4:38.72. TK’s Trey Mahon won the throws. He won the discus at 143-7 and the shot put with a mark of 42-10. The Trojans also closed out the meet with the team of Caleb Sabri, Josh Bremer, Evan Grinage and Brummel winning the 1600-meter relay in 3:40.76. Caledonia’s girls are 2-3 after their loss to TK. Thornapple Kellogg’s girls didn’t win all the points in the throws for the first time in a conference dual at FHE, but got back to their 18-0 scoring ways at Caledonia. Erin Ellinger led the way, winning the discus at 117-5 and the shot put at 36-0. DJ Minor was second in each of the throws for TK, and Aimee Ellinger third. A sprinter and a distance runner were the only other girls to win two individual events. Fiona Shea took the sprints for TK, winning the 100 in 12.88 and the 200 in 26.63. Hannah Schroder took the 1600 for the Scots in 5:32.11 and the 3200 in 11:42.00. The Scots also had Brodewyk score runner-up finishes in each of those distance races. The teams split the middle distance races and the hurdles. TK had Morgan McNutt win the 300-meter low hurdles in 52.52 and Molly Lark win the 400-meter dash in 1:03.18. The Scots had Sam Kruse win the 100-meter hurdles in 16.87 and Maggie DeJong win the 800 in 2:31.42. DeJong raced past two Trojans in the last 200 meters to score the win in her big race of the day. In the other field events, Caledonia had Caitlen Hughes win the pole vault at 9-0 and Cara Murphy take the high jump at 5-0. TK’s Paige Eyk won the long jump with a mark of 14-3. Like the Caledonia boys, TK’s girls took three relays. The team of Eyk, McNutt, Erin Ellinger and Lark won the 800-meter relay in 1:57.15. Heather Raymond, McNutt, Eyk and Shea won the 400-meter relay in 54.34. TK closed out the meet with the team of Lark, Taylor Ward, Shea and Grace Possett winning the 1600-meter relay in 4:21.96. The Caledonia team of Olivia Bordewyk, Bianca Postema, DeJong and Schroder took the 3200-meter relay in 10:30.00. Both TK teams dominated Ottawa Hills Tuesday. TK’s girls scored a 128-9 win, while TK’s boys won 108.5-27.5. The TK boys spread their first-place points around. Five different guys won the five field events for TK, with Eckhoff taking the high jump at 5-10, Paul Haney the pole vault at 90, Gabriel Schaffer-Space the long jump at 17-0, Michael Mahon the shot put at 40-11 and Trey Mahon the discus at 144-1. Brummel was the only TK boy to win four events, he took the 1600 in 4:45.54, the 800 in 2:05.38 and was a part of two relay wins. Russell Ellinger, James Vanette, Brummel and David Walter won the 3200-meter relay for TK in 9:03.76 and the team of Brummel, Grinage, Bremer and Ken Stahl won the 1600-meter relay in 3:34.07. Bremer and Grinage also teamed with Sabri and Cody Velthouse to win the 800meter relay in 1:41.16. Eckhoff added a win in the 110-meter high hurdles in 15.22. Jacob Calkins won the other hurdle race for TK, the 300-meter intermediate hurdles, in 43.85. TK also had Walter win the 3200 in 10:34.50. Ottawa Hills managed just five scoring performances in its loss to the TK girls. The Trojans won all 14 events. Sydney LeMay and Erin Ellinger won two events each in the field for TK. LeMay took the high jump at 4-8 and the long jump at 142. Erin Ellinger won the shot put with a mark of 35-4 and the discus at 110-0. Raymond won the pole vault for TK, clearing 7-0. Shea and Lawson each won two individual events on the track for TK. Shea took the 100 in 13.01 and the 200 in 26.45. Lawson took The Trojans’ Evan Grinage rounds the corner during the 1600-meter relay at Caledonia Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) the 1600 in 5:36.18 and the 3200 in 12:21.24. Raymond won the 100-meter hurdles in 18.24 and McNutt took the 300-meter low hurdles in 50.48. Lark won the 400 in 1:02.88 and Possett the 800 in 2:27.03. Emily Chatterson, Bryn Beyer, Savannah Temple and Kim Marble won the 3200-meter relay in 12:26.11; Eyk, Erin Ellinger, McNutt and Lark won the 800-meter relay in 1:54.74; Raymond, McNutt, Eyk and Shea won the 400-meter relay in 53.71; and Lark, Temple, Shea and Posssett took the 1600-meter relay in 4:29.09. TK closes out the league duals at home against South Christian Tuesday. Trojans’ Sinclair ties for best round at Quail Ridge jamboree It only took one day for South Christian to get back on top. The Sailors’ varsity boys’ golf team won for the third time in four O-K Gold Conference jamborees when the league met at Quail Ridge Wednesday afternoon. The Sailors took the day’s title with a 157, one day after a runner-up finish to Forest Hills Eastern at Gracewil Golf Course. Forest Hills Eastern was nine strokes back with a 166 Wednesday, followed by Catholic Central with a 172, Wayland 175, Hastings 176, Caledonia 179, Thornapple Kellogg 180 and Ottawa Hills NTS. Thornapple Kellogg got a 38 from Adam Sinclair, a 45 from Alex Koetsier, a 48 from Josh VanSickle and a 49 from Ben Jazwinski. Sinclair was one of four golfers to score a 38, the lowest round of the afternoon. That score was matched by South Christian’s Blake DeVries and Nick VanderHorst as well as Forest Hills Eastern’s Griff Billups. Hastings was led by Taylor Klotz’s 42. Danny Buehler added a 43 for the Saxons, Dylan Thurman a 44 and Fredrik Isgard a 46. The O-K Gold was scheduled to get together again at Railside Golf Club Wednesday, and will be back on the course at Hastings Country Club today (May 3). �Page 16 — Thursday, May 3, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Schoolcraft pushes DK boys to go faster in dual by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Earning the lead in Delton Kellogg High School’s production of “Is he Dead?” limited the ability of senior Mike Bassett to help out the Panther varsity boys’ track and field team this spring. Bassett was alive and well Tuesday though, placing in all four of his events to help the Delton boys to an 85-52 over visiting Schoolcraft. Schoolcraft was second to Delton in the final Kalamazoo Valley Association standings a year ago. “This has been first meet that he was actually able to compete in four events,” said Delton Kellogg’s Franklin James rounds the first corner at the start of the 800-meter relay Tuesday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The Panthers got personal record performances from Tyler Dempsey and Brady Mills as well. Dempsey won the 800 in 2:09.47 and Mills cleared 12-6 in the pole vault. Mills’ previous best in the pole vault had been 11-0. Watson won the high jump for Delton, clearing 5-10. The jumps went well for the Delton boys, but the throws did not. Schoolcraft swept all 18 points in the throws, with Charles Edick wining the shot put at 47-11 and Drew Douglass the discus at 129-7. Adam May won the 100-meter dash for DK in 10.2, and was the runner-up in the 200 in 24.75, behind Schoolcraft’s Bryan Jones who finished in 24.60. Pease added a win in the 400 for the Panthers, finishing in 53.64. Delton Kellogg’s girls won half the relays, and picked up three other first-place finishes. Andrea Polley earned two of those, winning the 100-meter hurdles in 16.15 seconds and The Panthers’ Ryan Watson easily clears the bar early on in the high jump competition during Tuesday’s KVA dual with Schoolcraft at Delton Kellogg High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Delton Kellogg head coach Dale Grimes. He defending conference champion Eagles. had the lead role in the play, so he was at play “I’ll tell you what, they brought out the best practice all the time, then he would come out in our guys,” Grimes said of the Eagles here after practice and practice with us. He Tuesday. had a huge night.” Bassett wasn’t the only guy having a big Bassett was second to teammate Brandon day for Delton. Three of the Panthers’ four Robbins in each of the hurdles races. He was relay teams set season-best times Tuesday. also third in the long jump with a mark of 17 The team of Jared Calhoun, Tyler Dempsey, feet 6.5 inches, behind teammates Conner Zach Haas and Ryan Watson started the Wolschleger (18-1.5) and Phoenix Pease (17- evening on the track by winning the 32007.25), and third in the 200-meter dash. meter relay in 8:42.33. Pease, Franklin James, The Panther boys improved to 4-0 in the Wolschleger and Adam May won the 800conference with their win Tuesday, and will meter relay in 1:34.61. The team of Robbins, close out the league duals at Pennfield Pease, Watson and Wolschleger closed out the Tuesday. The following Tuesday (May 15), night by winning the 1600-meter relay in the Delton teams meet up with the five KVA 3:36.44. squads they aren’t meeting in duals this year, Times appear 1.62 seconds faster than they at the league jamboree hosted by Maple actually were, due to timing problems Valley. Tuesday. Delton Kellogg’s girls fell to 2-2 in the Delton won all four relays. With the 400conference with their 94-42 loss to the meter relay team also winning in 46.62. the 300-meter low hurdles in 49.41. Jolene Drum had the Panthers’ other individual win, taking the 800 in 2:33.46. Polley and Drum teamed with Nicole Thompson and Brianna Russell to win the 1600-meter relay in 4:26.67. The team of Thompson, Alicia Lindsey, Morgen Leonard and Katie Hayward won the 400-meter relay in 55.62. “We keep getting better. Our times are getting better. The girls are getting healthier,” said Delton Kellogg head coach Karmin Bourdo. Delton’s girls only had four runner-up finishes against the loaded Eagle team. Drum was second in the 1600, Mallory Sewell was second in the shot put, Lindsey was second in the 400 and Hayward second in the 100. Macaila Rice won three individual events for the Eagles, taking the long jump at 14-7.5, the 100 in 11.55 and the 200 in 27.73. The Panthers’ Morgen Leonard (right) gets the baton into Alicia Lindsey’s hand during the 800-meter relay Tuesday afternoon at Delton Kellogg High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) TK not totally happy beating Saxons by just one by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The lights went dark inside Bob White Stadium before the Trojan coaching staff was able to make its way up the stairs Wednesday. Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity girls’ soccer team had a long talk following its 1-0 O-K Gold Conference victory over visiting Hastings. The Trojans remained undefeated in the conference with the victory, but thought the win could have been a bit more convincing against a team that dropped its first two conference games by a combined 13 goals to Caledonia and Catholic Central. “We didn’t play our best, but a win is a win and you’ve got to take it - especially a conference win,” said Thornapple Kellogg head coach Joel Strickland. “It’s obviously always good to beat Hastings. Hats off to Hastings. They played hard. I felt like we just rushed things way too much instead of playing possession, which we’re good at. It’s a learning experience and we still got the win and that’s what counts.” Thornapple Kellogg scored the game’s only goal on a penalty kick by Erin Scheidel with 37 seconds remaining in the first half. Hastings’ Haley Wagner drew the only yellow card in a very physical game, bumping TK’s Taylor Dalton out of the way on a Trojan corner kick late in the first half. That foul led to the PK. Both coaches felt like things could have been better for their teams if they’d just had some better touches up towards the goal. “We did change our formation,” said Hastings head coach Sarah Smith. “We’re heading into Wednesday evening’s showdown with Caledonia. TK tied two contests after the match-up with the Saxons, finishing 2-2 in a non-conference clash with Traverse City West Friday and 3-3 in an O-K Gold Conference clash with Forest Hills Eastern in Ada Monday. Hastings was shut out in two more contests following the meeting with TK. Hudsonville scored a 6-0 non-conference win over the visiting Saxons Thursday. South Christian came to Hastings and topped the Saxons 7-0 Tuesday evening. Williamston girls hand LHS girls’ tennis its second loss Hastings’ Jordan Morris (right) chases through the midfield during the first half of test in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) playing a 3-6-1, three defenders, six midfielders and one forward, from a 4-4-2. That’s Saxon senior Haley Wagner settles a bouncing ball during Wednesday’s contest against Thornapple Kellogg in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Thornapple Kellogg’s Jessica Ziccarello Wednesday’s O-K Gold Conference conallowing us to control more of the middle of the field. It’s getting us more offensive opportunities. Now we have to clean up the last pass in the offensive end.” The Trojans had a number of good runs at the Saxon goal, especially in the first half, but too often sent passes a little too hard at the corners or sent balls through the defense that got to Saxon keeper Bre Sinclair a little too quickly for the forwards to beat her to the ball. Sinclair made seven saves for Hastings. “They had the right idea, they just had to make adjustments as far as how hard we were putting that ball in the corner,” Strickland said. “In the second half I felt we played a little bit better, we just didn’t put the ball inthe back of the net.” Smith was pleased with the play or her reworked defense, a unit that included Tori Schoessel, Jordan Morrison, Ashley Nurenburg and Amber Nurenberg. Smith said that the biggest difference between Wednesday’s loss and the two previous lopsided league losses was that the foe was TK. “That’s the biggest thing,” Smith said. “It’s the rivalry thing. It’s always a close game with TK, no matter what.” Chelsea Totten earned the shut-out in net for TK. The Trojans were 3-0-1 in the conference Lakewood’s Lexi Fetterman hits a backhand return during a second doubles match against East Kentwood at Saturday’s Gainey Invitational hosted by Grand Rapids Christian. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Brooke Fox, at second singles, earned the lone victory for the Lakewood varsity girls’ tennis team in its 7-1 loss to visiting Williamston Thursday. The Vikings fell to 1-2 in the Capital Area Activities Conference White Division with the loss. Fox topped the Hornets’ Caroline Rising 61, 6-1 in their match. Those were the only two sets the Vikings took off the Hornets. Sunshine Young, at third singles for the Vikings, pushed her opponent. Katie Nix was able to pull out a 7-6(3), 6-3 win though for Williamston. Williamston improved to 2-0 in the league and 7-0 overall with the victory. Lakewood is now 2-2-1 overall on the year. The Vikings faced some more tough competition Saturday, at the Gainey Invitational hosted by Grand Rapids Christian. They finished sixth in the six-team tournament. East Kentwood won five flights, and took the day’s championship with 21 points. Zeeland East was second with 15, followed by Grand Rapids Christian 13, Unity Christian 11, Wayland 7 and Lakewood 4. The six teams were split into three pools. The Vikings were matched up with Zeeland East and East Kentwood, meaning the Lakewood singles players got to play all of the day’s singles champions. Zeeland East’s Kelly Daniel was the day’s top player, winning the first singles title with a 6-2, 6-2 victory over Abby Long in the cross-over match to end the day. East Kentwood won the other three singles titles, as well as the third and fourth doubles championship. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 3, 2012 — Page 17 Hastings girls pile up firsts to win Bath’s relays Hastings’ girls and Owosso’s boys won handily at Friday’s David Courser Relays, hosted by Bath High School. The Saxons topped runner-up Owosso 120 to 97.5 in the girls’ meet, while the Owosso boys beat our runner-up Delton Kellogg 117.5 to 83 in the boys’ standings. Hastings’ girls won seven of the 15 events, and got a great start to the day with three girls in the top 11 in the 3200-meter run. Trista Straube was the runner-up to Flushing’s Addie May in the race. May came in at 11 minutes 12.45 seconds and Straube at 11:53.39. Hastings also had Amanda Sarhatt seventh in 12:50.64 and Abby Laubaugh 11th in 13:36.95. The Saxons first win on the track came in the shuttle hurdle relay, with the team of Rachel Quillen, Bri Sheldon, Christy Clark and Nichole Redman winning in 1 minute 12.81 seconds. Hastings won the last four relays of the day, a run that started with the team of Grace Bosma, Rachel Rimer, Sarhatt and Straube winning the 3200-meter relay in 10:28.86. Kaylee Lumbert, Hannah Anderson, Caprice Lowinski and Corrie Osterink then won the throwers relay in 2:18.32; Erin Goggins, Amanda Wilgus, Garber and Amber Myers won the JV 1600-meter relay in 4:38.24; and the team of Cherie Kosbar, Clark, Rimer and Redman won the 1600-meter relay in 4:25.70. The Saxons also had the team of Sarah Banister, Wilgus, Alex Shumway and Melany Schwab win the JV 400-meter relay in 57.98. Quillen and Katy Garber won the high jump for the Saxons, with a total height of 9 feet 8 inches cleared. That was the only win for the Saxons in the field, but Hastings was third in the discus, the shot put and the long jump, and fifth in the pole vault. Delton Kellogg’s best finishes were runnerup finishes. The Panther duo of Mallory Sewell and Kristen Mohn was second in the The Hastings varsity girls’ track and field team celebrates its championship at Friday’s David Courser Relays hosted by Bath. The Saxons finished 22.5 points ahead of runner-up Owosso to earn the title. shoot put with a mark of 59-1.5, and the team of Katie Hayward, Morgen Leonard, Jolene Drum and Alicia Lindsey tied Olivet for second place in the 400-meter relay with a time of 54.50. Behind the top two teams in the girls’ standings, Olivet was third with a score of 70.50, followed by Fowlerville 64, Flushing 58.5, Delton Kellogg 54, Bath 50, Grass Lake 34, Byron 22.5, Hillsdale 7 and Vestaburg 4. The Delton Kellogg and Hastings boys were neck-and-neck all day, but neither could keep pace with Owosso. Hastings was third in the boys’ standings with 78 points, five behind the Panthers. Flushing was third with 77, followed by Bath 50, Fowlerville 46, Byron 45, Olivet 42.5, Hillsdale 24, Grass Lake 16 and Vestaburg 5. Hastings and Delton Kellogg had one win each. The Panther duo of Billy Schut and Ryan Watson won the high jump relay at 116. Hastings had its team win the shuttle hurdle relay in 1:08.61. Watson added a runner-up finish in the 3200-meter run, with a time of 10:09.70. Hastings was second in two field events, with Casey Goggins and Jason Slaughter teaming for a mark of 35-7.75 in the long jump and the team of Jacob Comer and Joey Siska totaling 24-6 to tie Fowlerville for second in the pole vault. Delton also had runner-up finishes in the JV 400-meter relay, the throwers relay and the 1600-meter relay. Hastings runners were second in the 800-meter relay. Hastings’ girls were also winners Tuesday, topping Wayland in an O-K Gold Conference dual in Hastings 105-32. Quillen, Redman and Straube won two individual events each for Hastings. Straube took the 3200 in 12:02.02, leading a Saxon sweep in the event, and won the 1600 in 5:32.14. Quillen won the high jump at 5-2 and the long jump at 14-7.5. Redman took the The Saxons’ Stephen Kendall (right) gets the baton to teammate Casey Goggins in the 400-meter relay during their team’s O-K Gold Conference dual with Wayland Tuesday in Hastings. (Photo by Dan Goggins) 100-meter hurdles in 17.17 and the 300-meter low hurdles in 50.18. Speer took the 100 for Hastings in 13.49 and Bosma won the 800 in 2:31.66. In the throws, Hastings had Lumbert win the shot put at 30-2.5 and Osterink the discus at 81-3. Hastings swept the relays. Bosma, Rimer, Sarhatt and Straube won the 3200-meter relay in 10:29.40. Kosbar, Myers, Hickey and Redman won the 800-meter relay in 1:55.45. Speer, Hickey, Sheldon and Myers won the 400-meter relay in 54.45. The team of Kosbar, Myers, Rimer and Redman won the 1600meter relay in 4:28.22. The Saxon boys lost another close O-K Gold Conference dual to the Wildcats Tuesday, 72-65, with Wayland securing the South stays perfect in Gold by beating the Hastings girls win by outscoring the Saxons in each of the last five events on the track. The last Hastings win on the track came from Comer in the 300-meter intermediate hurdles. He finished in 41.27. Comer also won the 110-meter high hurdles in 14.98. Hastings swept the pole vault, with Siska clearing 12-0, and Comer in second at 12-0 as well. Slaughter was third in the event at 11-0. The Saxons’ only other wins were in the first three relays. The team of Brandon Johnson, Matt Johnson, Garrett Bowers and Ben Kolanowski won the 3200-meter relay in 8:56.00. The team of Devin Bancroft, Comer, Casey Goggins and Chad Reedy wont he 800meter relay in 1:34.91 and Bancroft, Stephen Kendall, Goggins and Reedy won the 400meter relay in 45.96. Delton picks up its play on rainy Monday at Mullenhurst Hastings junior Shelby Price takes a cut at a pitch during her team’s doubleheader with visiting Harper Creek Thursday evening. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Hastings fell to 3-5 in the O-K Gold Conference with a pair of losses to the South Christian varsity girls’ softball team Tuesday in Hastings. The Sailors took the opener 10-0, with the help of five Saxon fielding errors and ten hits. South Christian scored in every inning but the second to earn the win. Hastings had just three hits, a double by Farrah Salazar and singles by Liz Guernsey and MacKenzie Keller-Bennett. Stevie Pennepacker hit her first varsity home run, in the top of the fourth inning of game two, but that accounted for the Saxons only two runs in a 14-2 loss. That was one of four Saxon hits. Salazar had two more singles, and Guernsey singled as well. Laken Meade took the loss in both games, pitching for Hastings. The Sailors improved to 8-0 in the conference with the two wins. Hastings also dropped two non-conference contests in Hastings Thursday, falling 8-4 and 8-5 to Harper Creek. Harper Creek scored three runs in the top of the seventh inning of game one to break open what had been a close game. Katie DeVries had three hits in the loss, and Salazar had two including her second home run of the season. In game two, the Saxons jumped out to an early lead only to see Harper Creek battle back to earn the 8-5 win. The Saxons put four runs on the scoreboard in the third inning, on walks to Shelby Price and Meade and hits by Marissa Adams, DeVries and Erika Rozell. The Saxons managed just one more run in the game though, on a home run by DeVries in the seventh inning, her second of the season. Harper Creek tacked on runs in the third, fourth, fifth and sixth to get the win. Hastings is now 8-12 overall this season. The Saxons will head to Ottawa Hills for a double header Tuesday, then travel for a double header with Allegan Wednesday next week. The Saxons’ Brianne Whiteman scoops up the ball in the outfield during Thursday’s doubleheader with Harper Creek. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Lion girls score their first victory The Lions’ improvements had been showing up on the scoreboard all season, but they finally showed up in the win column Thursday. Maple Valley’s varsity girls’ soccer team earned its first victory of the season, topping the visiting Kalamazoo Home School Cougars 2-0. The Lions got a goal from Olivia Ricketts in each have to score the win, with the team dominating play throughout the second half. It was the fourth time this season that the Lions have scored two goals. They didn’t match that feat in an 8-0 loss to visiting Delton Kellogg Monday though. The Lion ladies were scheduled to visit Pennfield Wednesday, and will be back in action Friday in their final home game of the season against Springport. Next week, the Lions take on Parchment on the road Monday and Hackett Catholic Central Wednesday. Call 945-9554 any time for Hastings Banner classified ads 40, and the Lion team also got a 46 from Nick Iszler, a 48 from Ryan Mudge and a 49 from Rage Sheldon. Delton was 0-2 at the league Tri hosted by Pennfield at Marywood Golf Course Friday, shooting a 185. Hackett Catholic Central was 2-0 on the afternoon, firing a 170. Pennfield finished at 177. Simon shot a 41 for Delton, Wandell a 43, Worm a 49 and DJ Prater chipped in a 52. Delton was a bit better last Wednesday, at Mullenhurst, topping Battle Creek St. Phillip 175 to 214. Wandell fired an even-par 36 on the back nine, while Delton also got a 42 from Worm, a 48 from Anthony Houtrow, and a pair of 49s from Farrah and Prater. St. Phillip was led by Ben Houarter’s 47. SAXON WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE Complete online schedule at: www.hassk12.org THURSDAY, MAY 3 3:45 PM 4:00 PM 4:00 PM 4:00 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 5:00 PM Boys Boys Girls Girls Boys Boys Girls Varsity MS JV MS Varsity JV JV Golf Track Softball Track Baseball Baseball Soccer WEDNESDAY, MAY 9 Hastings HS H Comstk HS Comstk Relays A Marshall HS DH A Comstk HS Comstk Relays A S Christian HS A DeWitt DH H Hopkins HS H FRIDAY, MAY 4 4:15 PM Boys Fresh. 4:15 PM Girls Fresh. Baseball Softball Caledonia HS DH Portland HS A H SATURDAY, MAY 5 9:00 AM Boys Varsity Baseball 9:00 AM Girls JV Softball 4:00 PM Girls JV Tennis Wooden Bat Tournament H Parma Western HS A Parma Western Invitational JV Conf. @ S. Christian A MONDAY, MAY 7 3:45 PM 3:45 PM 4:00 PM 4:00 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 5:00 PM 6:30 PM Boys Boys Girls Girls Boys Boys Girls Girls Girls Girls Varsity JV Varsity JV Fresh. MS Fresh. MS JV Varsity Golf Golf Tennis Tennis Baseball Track Softball Track Soccer Soccer Wayland Union HS South Christian HS Caledonia HS Caledonia HS Comstock Park HS Thornapple-Kellogg HS E. Kentwood HS DH Thornapple-Kellogg HS Wayland Union HS Wayland Union HS A A A H H A A A H H Boys Boys Girls Girls Boys Girls Varsity JV Varsity Fresh. Varsity Varsity Baseball Baseball Softball Softball Track Track Boys Girls Boys Boys Boys Boys Girls Girls Girls Girls JV JV Varsity JV Fresh. MS Varsity JV MS Varsity Golf Soccer Baseball Baseball Baseball Track Softball Softball Track Soccer Thornapple-Kellogg HS Forest Hills Eastern HS Allegan HS DH Allegan HS DH Forest Hills E. HS DH Wayland/Delton Allegan HS DH Plainwell HS Wayland/Delton Forest Hills Eastern HS H H A H A H A H H H Thornapple-Kellogg HS Ottawa Hills HS Allendale HS DH Newhall Middle Allendale HS DH Newhall Middle Kenowa Hills HS Kenowa Hills HS A H A H A H A A THURSDAY, MAY 10 3:45 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:30 PM 4:30 PM Boys Boys Boys Boys Girls Girls Girls Girls Varsity Varsity Fresh. MS Fresh. MS Varsity JV Golf Baseball Baseball Track Softball Track Tennis Tennis Times and dates subject to change Thanks to This Week’s Sponsor: Certified Financial Planning Randy Teegardin, CFP.® Hastings City Bank Trust and Investment Group 269-945-2401 150 W. Court St. Hastings, MI 49058 TUESDAY, MAY 8 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:30 PM 4:30 PM 3:45 PM 4:00 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 5:30 PM Ottawa Hills HS DH Ottawa Hills HS DH Ottawa Hills HS DH Sparta HS DH Forest Hills Eastern HS Forest Hills Eastern HS A H A H H H Investment opportunities include non deposit investments which are: Not FDIC Insured Not Bank Guaranteed May Lose Value HASTINGS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS Contact Nancy 945-2742 or hastingsathleticboosters@gmail.com to sponsor the schedule 77567464 Hastings’ Rachel Quillen flies through the air during the long jump competition at Tuesday afternoon’s O-K Gold Conference dual with Wayland in Hastings. (Photo by Dan Goggins) Delton Kellogg’s varsity boys’ golf team bounced back from a rough outing last Friday to go 1-1 at the Kalamazoo Valley Association Tri it hosted at Mullenhurst Golf Course Monday. The Panthers fired a 161, besting Maple Valley which finished with a 183 but finishing behind Kalamazoo Christian’s 153. Kalamazoo Christian’s Bailey Matheison and Delton Kellogg’s Mitchell Wandell tied for the best round of the day, each shooting a one-under-par 34. Delton also got a 41 from Adam Farrah, a 42 from Zack Simon and a 44 from Conner Worm. Behind Matheison for the Comets, TJ DeHaan scored a 38, Ryan Gove a 39 and Michael Fegan a 42. Maple Valley was led by Caleb Walker’s �Page 18 — Thursday, May 3, 2012 — The Hastings Banner DK wins close ones with Comets, but not Pennfield by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Delton Kellogg boys were “this” close to putting together a four-game Kalamazoo Valley Association winning streak. Instead, they’ll have to settle for having won two out of their last four. Pennfield’s varsity baseball team swept its KVA doubleheader at Delton Kellogg Tuesday, topping the host Panthers 4-1 and 32. Those two tight contests came just a couple of days after Delton swept its KVA doubleheader with Kalamazoo Christian in Delton, last Friday. “It’s a tough one to swallow, but we’ve played four games in a row where we’ve been right there,” said Delton Kellogg head coach Bill Humphrey after Tuesday’s doubleheader. “We’re playing good ball, smart ball. We won two one-run games against Christian. Today, like they say ‘sometimes you bite the bear and sometimes the bear bites you.’ Give Pennfield credit. They really came through in the clutch, and hats off to them.” Pennfield came back from a 1-0 deficit with a run in the top of the sixth and then three more in the top of the seventh to win game one. In game two, Pennfield trailed 2-0 heading into the bottom of the fifth. The green and gold Panthers tacked on a run in the fifth, then won in walk-off fashion in the bottom of the sixth in a game that ended an inning early due to darkness. Zach Meyers, who saved both games in the sweep of Kalamazoo Christian, was hit with the loss in each of the two games against Pennfield. He did enough on the mound that the Delton boys should have gotten at least one win though. A two-out error in the bottom of the sixth inning of game two allowed the Delton Kellogg’s Ryan Hook knocks a single to lead-off the bottom of the seventh inning in game one against Pennfield Tuesday at Delton Kellogg High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) tying and winning runs to score for Pennfield. Pennfield strung together a walk, a couple of singles and a sacrifice fly to push across the winning runs in the top of the seventh in game one. Caleb Frein went the distance for Pennfield in game one, striking out ten and giving up just a pair of singles. He plunked Nick Brindley with a pitch in the fourth inning, and Brindley scored on an RBI single from Zach Eib. Zach Meyers had the only other Delton single. The Delton Panthers also got a good start, from Sam Horrocks, who struck out three and gave up three hits in his six innings on the mound. “Our pitching was fantastic,” Humphrey said. “Our starting pitching was amazing. In the first game we had a sophomore we brought up, Sam Horrocks, for his first varsity game. Six innings, one run, I don’t know how many hits. That was Nick Aukerman’s second start (in game two). I think his first start was in the Hastings tournament. He kind of got a baptism there, and came in here and just mowed them down. He changed his speeds well, and had great poise.” There were 13 hits in the second game, all of them singles, six for Delton and seven for Pennfield. The six Delton hits were by six different players. Ryan Hook had an RBI single in the top of the third inning for Delton, and an RBI fly-out in the top of the fifth after Nick Brindley and Jared Buckland opened the inning with singles. Delton earned its first wins over Kalamazoo Christian in Humphrey’s five years as head coach Friday. They knocked off the Comets 6-5 in the opener, then won the nightcap 2-1. Aukerman earned his first varsity win, pitching in relief of Logan Durban in game one. He struck out four and gave up just one hit in his two innings of work. Meyers closed out the game with two innings of scoreless relief. Hook led the Delton attack at the plate, going 2-for-4 with two RBI. Jacob Morgan had two hits as well, and scored a run. Zach Meyers pitches for Delton Kellogg in the top of the seventh inning of game one against Pennfield Tuesday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Buckland, Meyers and TJ Wooden drove in runs as well for the Panthers. Delton led 4-0 after two innings, but saw the Comets rally for four runs in the third off of Durban. The Panthers answered back with two runs in the bottom of the fourth, then held on for the one-run win as the Comets threatened for more in the top of the fifth but came away with just one run. The Comets were also looking to put together a big rally in the bottom of the fifth of game two, but some solid pitching by Buckland and a nice defensive play by Wooden limited the damage to a run. Buckland earned the win, striking out five and allowing six hits in his six innings. Meyers earned the save, striking out three and giving up a single hit in the bottom of the seventh. Wooden had a couple of big hits as well. He singled in the top of the second, and eventually scored on a double by Alex Lepird. Wooden drove in the Panthers’ other run, with a two-out single in the top of the sixth. Delton is now 3-11 overall this season, and 3-7 in the KVA. The Panthers head to Hackett Catholic Central for two Friday, then take a week off from league action. They’ll be at Hopkins for two Monday then Saturday (May 12) they host their annual DK Wooden Bat Invitational. DK girls improving as they battle the injury bug by Brett Bremer Sports Editor With solid defense and pitching, two runs were enough for Delton Tuesday. With shaky defense and pitching, two runs weren’t enough for Delton Tuesday. Delton Kellogg’s varsity softball team split its Kalamazoo Valley Association doubleheader with visiting Pennfield, taking the opener 2-1 then falling 8-2 in the nightcap. With broken finger on her pitching hand, Brooke Martin tossed a four-hitter in the opener to earn the win for Delton. She struck out five, walked one and hit one, while giving up just four singles. The only Pennfield was unearned. Injuries are something the Delton Kellogg team has had to deal with all season long. “I bet there’s more injuries in this season than I’ve had in all my other seasons combined,” said Delton Kellogg head coach Kelly Yoder. “You always have little things, but not broke hands and legs, and it’s frustrating. The kids are kind of frustrated about it. What are you going to do? You’ve got to play with what you got. A lot of people are playing out of position.” Delton Kellogg senior Kami McCowan is headed to Kalamazoo Valley Community College to play outfield for the women’s softball program there. She caught all of game one, parts of game two, played second base in game two, and closed out the evening with a couple of innings in center field. Yoder said she’s not sure how much time freshman Libby Parker has ever spent catching before, but she was there for much of game two against Pennfield. The DK coach was also pleased with the progress of junior Nicole Holtz, who she had in right field in Delton Kellogg third baseman Nicole Holtz waits on a throw as Pennfield’s Taylor Haudek slides towards the bag during the bottom of the second inning of game two at Delton Kellogg High School Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) game one. Both Parker and Holtz are natural infielders. Hannah Okeley walked and McCowan singled to lead-off the bottom of the fifth in game one Tuesday, and both eventually came around to score. Pennfield scored its lone run in the top of the fourth, thanks to a Delton error. Delton had four hits in the win, singles by McCowan, Martin, Holtz and Okeley. Delton and Pennfield both had eight hits in game two, but the green and gold Panthers used those eight hits, seven walks and a handful of Delton errors to score the 8-2 win. Amanda Sare led Pennfield to the win, going 3-for-3 at the plate with a walk. She scored one run her team’s three-run rally in the bottom of the fourth which knocked Delton Kellogg starting pitcher Kaysie Hook from the game. Hook walked seven in her three innings of work, and struck out one while giving up four hits and seven runs. Martin took over, and also allowed four hits, but didn’t walk a batter. She struck out four and gave up one run in her three innings of work. Chelsea O’Dell and Hook led the Delton offense in the loss, with two hits each. Hook had a single and a double. Martin also doubled for the Panthers, driving in her team’s only two runs in the top of Delton Kellogg’s Chelsea O’Dell gets a jump off of second base during the top of the fourth inning of game two against Pennfield Tuesday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) the sixth after singles by McCowan, O’Dell and Hook opened the inning. Megan DeHart earned the win for Pennfield, giving up two runs in five innings, striking out three and walking one. Delton had five of its eight hits off of her, and three off of Holli Longstreth. Longstreth came on after the first three batters reached to start the sixth and gave up the double to Martin, but shut Delton down the rest of the way. It’s been a good stretch for the Delton girls, who played well in a pair of losses at home against Kalamazoo Christian Friday. The Comets took the opener 5-1, then won the night cap 5-0. Martin pitched both contests for the Panthers. McCowan tripled in the top of the fourth inning of game one, and came home on single by Martin to plate Delton’s only run of the evening. Delton Kellogg’s girls are scheduled to return to action with a doubleheader at Hackett Catholic Central Friday, then will be home for two non-conference games against Hopkins Monday. 06780220 Vikings tenth at NorthPointe Invite Lakewood edged host NorthPointe Christian on the fifth score tie-breaker to earn the last spot in the top half of the standings at Monday’s NorthPointe Christian Invitational at Railside Golf Club. The Vikings were tenth in the 20-team field, played on what Viking assistant coach Gary Elliott called a tough course under very wet conditions. Lakewood shot a 333, with Adam Barker leading the way with a 77. “It seems the weather has been a factor in every event we have played, and I can not wait to see what our team will score with normal weather,” said Elliott. South Christian took the day’s championship by eight strokes over runner-up East Kentwood. The Sailors fired a 303 and the Falcons a 311. South Christian was one of five O-K Gold Conference teams at the event, and one of three which finished in the top five. Hastings was there s well, earning a 14th-place finish. Grandville ‘White” was third with a score of 312, followed by Grand Rapids Catholic Central 320, Forest Hills Eastern 320, Zeeland East 325, Byron Center 329, Holland Christian 331, Northview 332, Lakewood 333, NorthPointe Christian 333, Western Michigan Christian 345, Grandville ‘Maroon’ 349, Hastings 354, Hudsonville 359, Greenville 363, Wayland 369, Kentwood ‘B’ 379, Allendale 383 and Hopkins 390. Behind Barker for Lakewood, Jade Bosworth shot an 84, Ryan Elliott an 85 and Ben Ridder an 87. The Vikings’ used Kyler Clark’s score of a 91 to win the tie-breaker with the Mustangs, as NorthPointe’s fourth and fifth golfers both scored a 100. Hastings got a 79 from Danny Buehler, an 87 from Taylor Klotz, and a pair of 94s from Logan Barrett and Aaron Williams. Kentwood’s Brett White was the day’s top individual, shooting a 71. South Christian was led by Ben Cook’s 72. The Sailors also had Blake DeVries and Nick VanderHorst tie for eighth with a pair of 76s. Lakewood finished third at the second Capital Area Activities Conference White Division jamboree of the season Thursday, at Glenbrier Golf Course in Perry. The Vikings finished with a 167, behind Williamston’s 160 and Lansing Catholic’s 165. Corunna was fourth with a 172, followed by Portland 176 and Perry 189. Barker and Bosworth each shot a 40 for the Vikings, while Everts added a 43 and Ridder and Blake Yeager each shot 44. Corunna’s Cory Peisert was the day’s medalist with a 37. The Vikings are currently tied for second in the league with Williamston, behind Lansing Catholic. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-05-10.pdf fd0784284ac2a3ce8faafa059f261c60 PDF Text Text Open space debate gets personal at county board Fracking ban in best interests of state DK track has 2 very good days at Pennfield See Story on Page 2 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 18 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 19 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, May 10, 2012 Area companies on ‘101 best and brightest’ NEWS BRIEFS Teens raising money and awareness of homelessness Grace Lutheran Church Senior High Youth Ministry is sponsoring a homelessness awareness event and prayer vigil on the Barry County Courthouse lawn Friday, May 11, from 5 p.m. until 6 a.m. Saturday, May 12. All teens are invited to join. This is the fifth year Grace Lutheran Church youths have sponsored the event. In 2011, the event brought in more than $800 which was given to Barry County United Way to help local families with needs related to homelessness, including heating assistance, food, rent and other expenses to keep families in their homes. Proceeds from this year’s event will again be presented to the United Way’s Homeless Prevention Fund. A public candlelight prayer vigil will begin at 9:30 p.m. Friday, to pray for homeless persons and their needs in Barry County and around the world. The group invites other youths and the public to join them for any or all of the evening, to provide encouragement or to make a donation. For more information, call the church office, 269-945-9414, or Luke Domke at 269-945-9181. Three Barry County-based companies have been honored as among the 2012 Best and Brightest Companies to Work For in West Michigan by the Michigan Business and Professional Association. Hastings City Bank, Hastings Mutual Insurance Co., and Pennock Health Services are making return appearances to the list which recognizes companies that “distinguish themselves as having the most innovative and thoughtful human resources approach.” All 101 companies were honored at a special MBPA dinner May 3 at the Pinnacle Center in Grand Rapids. Naming to the elite list is determined by an independent research firm that evaluates each company’s entry based on key measures in various human resources categories, including compensation, benefits, employee enrichment, engagement and retention, recruitment, employee achievement and recognition, community initiatives, and strategic company performance. “Pennock’s history of providing exceptional quality health care and excellent patient satisfaction are results of colleague engagement and commitment,” said Sheryl Lewis See 101, page 7 Among the representatives of Hastings City Bank, Hastings Mutual Insurance Co., and Pennock Health Services attending a special dinner May 3 to honor their companies’ inclusion on the 101 Best and Brightest Companies to Work For in West Michigan list are (from left) Debra Glumm, Pennock; Anita Henderson, Pennock; Bill Wallace, Hastings Mutual; Ellen Jongsma, Pennock; John Halquist, Hastings Mutual; Pamela Livermore, Pennock; Mark Kolanowski, Hastings City Bank; Sheryl Lewis Blake, Pennock; Nancy Goodin, Hastings City Bank; Robyn Todd, Pennock; Jeremy Grove, Hastings City Bank; Carla Wilson-Neil, Pennock; Chase Johnson, Hastings City Bank; Karen Thompson, Hastings City Bank; Tony Frith, Pennock; Steve Marzolf, Pennock; and Mike Schaper, Hastings Mutual. Road commission puts public on alert during summit by Doug VanderLaan Editor Ominous funding clouds on the horizon prompted a road alert from the Barry County Road Commission at the special 2012 Road Summit attended by some 90 government leaders and citizens Wednesday, May 2, at the Barry Expo Center. “Our goal is to educate and to communicate with the thought-leaders in the county about the status quo of our finances and the required optimal maintenance needed for our roads,” said Frank Fiala, chairman of the Barry County Road Commission, said after the road summit meeting. “A lot of people, including our county commissioners, have not seen data at the depth it was presented tonight.” Beginning with a video produced by the Michigan Infrastructure Transportation Association that drew a noticeable crowd murmur with its closing line, “ ... because the roads to Pure Michigan are Pure Hell,” BCRC officials sought to bring attention to the deteriorating conditions of roads and the skyrock- DKHS alumni banquet deadline is Saturday The Delton Kellogg High School alumni banquet will be Saturday, May 19, in the fellowship hall of Faith United Methodist Church, 503 S. Grove St. (M-43), Delton, at 6 p.m. Honored classes at this year’s event will be alumni from 2012, 1987 and 1962. The catered meal is $12.50 per person. Tickets need to be purchased by Saturday, May 12. Send reservations to Delores Kroes, 11575 Floria Road, Delton 49046 and indicate year of graduation. For more information, visit http://dkhs-alumni.org or call Nancy Kroes, 269-623-2917, or Mary Sager, 269-623-2610. PASER rating. “BCRC, when split out against the other 82 road commissions in the state, has some roads that are in very good shape, relatively speaking,” pointed out Lamberg. “But we have trended, since 2003, from a PASER rating of 7.5 percent to our current 6.23 percent.” Using forecasting software, Lamberg also provided evidence that future road conditions, given present road repair funding levels, will See ROADS, page 2 Delton Kellogg High School announces top 10 students Hastings alumni banquet tickets still available The cutoff date for purchasing tickets for the Hastings High School Alumni Banquet is Friday, May 18. Tickets are $15 per person in advance and at the door. The banquet date is Saturday, June 2, in the high school cafeteria, with punch bowl 4:30 followed by banquet at 5:30 p.m. The banquet is for all who attended Hastings High School and their guests and will recognize the anniversary classes of 1947, 1952, 1957 and 1962. Tickets may be purchased at Bosley Pharmacy or by calling Jack Smith, 269-945-4939 or Donna Brown, 269948-2790. eting cost of maintenance — not just in Barry County, but throughout the state. All roads in Michigan carry a visual survey rating, Brad Lamberg, managing director of the Barry County Road Commission told the road summit audience, and by comparison, Barry County roads rate above most counties. Following the standard Pavement Surface Evaluation and Rating system, which uses a 10-point scale to group roads into Good (8 to 10), Fair (5 to 7), and Poor (1 to 4) categories, Barry County roads currently carry a 6.23 More than 30 people gather with signs to protest the possibility of fracking in Barry County. The protest prompted many ‘thumbs up’ responses from people driving by, honking horns and collection of signatures on petitions. Lease auction draws protesters, local bidders Citizens from Barry County, concerned about the oil and gas leasing rush going on in their backyards, attended the May 8 auction of leasing of state-owned land. Close to 100 people from all over the region also protested in front of the State Capitol. In Tuesday’s department of natural resources auction, $3.6 million was spent to buy oil and gas leases on Michigan state land — the money buying mineral rights to land and the possibility of drilling under 91,225 acres in 21 counties in the Lower Peninsula. All of the state recreation and game area in Barry County was on the block, 23,419 acres — the most of any county in the auction. According to local sources and the Detroit Free Press, a Barry County resident attending the auction was removed from the auction and later taken into custody, charged with disturbing a public meeting. In a Free Press article, Karen Barber, a Middleville resident who was carrying a sign outside of Constitutional Hall in Lansing said, “I am worried about the health impacts. I don’t want them to allow [fracking] at all. I don’t believe in the integrity of the oil companies.” Another Banner source said some Barry County residents pooled their financial resources to bid on the leases, but were outbid. Leases were auctioned for $12 to $350 per acre. The source also said one registered bidder was removed from the auction when a “landman” (the title given salesmen who seek property to be leased out) asked for private citizens to be removed. The bidder reportedly responded that the meeting was open to the public if the bidding requirements were met. “One [unnamed] Barry County resident had registered as a bidder and supposedly had access to $250,000 for the auction,” said the source. “They were outbid on every parcel.” Several area residents gathered on the Barry County Courthouse lawn Saturday, showing signs to passing motorists and pedestrians expressing their concerns with the issue of fracking. In response to concerns, many people are circulating petitions in Barry County to put a “fracking ban” on the November state ballot. Ryan Watson, valedictorian Ryan Ronald Watson, 17, son of Ron and Angie Watson, is the valedictorian of the Delton Kellogg High School Class of 2012 with a grade point average of 4.161. Watson participated in basketball, track, cross country, Youth Leadership Summit, student council and was a member of the National Honor Society. He was also named All-County in basketball, cross country, track; All-Conference in basketball, cross country and track; Academic All-State three times in cross country, two times in basketball; All-State special mention in basketball; All-Kalamazoo Gazette area basketball; AP Scholar with honor; and Michigan High School Athletic Association scholar – athletic award finalists. Watson plans to attend Albion College for business management and to own or manage a business. His hobbies include riding quads at Silver Lake Sand Dunes and playing Modern Warfare 3 on xBox. Brian Alan Wilder, 18, is the son of Lois and Craig Wilder. He earned a 4.102 GPA, making him the salutatorian of the class of Brian Wilder, salutatorian 2012. Wilder played varsity soccer, varsity track, and was involved in the Delton Kellogg Theater Arts Company, National Honor Society, quiz bowl, marching band, pep band and concert band. Wilder plans to attend Michigan Technological University to study computer engineering. After graduation, he plans to a get well-paying job he can enjoy. His hobbies are playing the trumpet, reading, playing video games, soccer and fishing. Michael Scott Bassett, 18, son of Marsha and Stuart Bassett, achieved a 3.986 GPA. Bassett participated in cross country, freshman basketball, track and field, DKTAC, Follies, student council, National Honor Society. He was also on the Team Academic All-State for cross country, Individual Academic All-State in the conference, and was a two-year winner in the Write Away Contest. Bassett plans to attend Michigan State See DK TOP 10, page 3 �Page 2 — Thursday, May 10, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Barry County citizens take concerns about fracking to the streets Above left: A public demonstration against fracking is not the only activity in which organizers were engaged. Training of almost 40 petition circulators occurred at the Thomas Jefferson Hall in Hastings. More training sessions are happening day by day all over the region — including Kalamazoo, Grand Rapids and elsewhere in the state. Above: The oil and gas lease controversy has bubbled out onto the streets of Barry County. Protesters stand at the corner of Broadway and State Street in Hastings Saturday, May 5, to voice their opinions about the mineral-extraction process and possible drilling in Barry County. Photos by David DeDecker At left: In addition to a demonstration at the intersection of Broadway and State Street Saturday, a mass call-in campaign concerning fracking in Michigan was organized. Organizers asked citizens to contact Gov. Rick Snyder and ask him to stop the oil and gas leases on public land. They told passers-by “The more calls, emails, letters and petitions communicated to the governor, the stronger our message of dissatisfaction about the misuse of our resources will be.” ROAD SUMMIT, continued from page 1 not fare well. By 2015, more than half the roads in the state will rate in the poor-condition category; which, given road use and the degradation of the Michigan winter season, is a natural expectation. The situation reaches crisis level, according to Lamberg, when the cost of maintenance and repair enters the discussion. Due to cost explosions in the oil market — the chief ingredient of asphalt and asphalt emulsion — road material prices have more than doubled in the past seven years. To bring Barry County’s PASER rating back to the 7.5 percent (high ‘fair’ category) of 2003, costs today would be $10 million — exactly double what the repair cost would have been seven years ago. Add in steadily declining revenue sources, Lamberg pointed out, and a full-blown financial crisis is brewing. State funding for local roads comes from the Michigan Transportation Fund which relies, largely, on vehicle registration fees and the 19-cent gasoline tax for its revenue. The pinch in recent years has come in that, after a 1984 increase from 13 cents to 15 cents per gallon, there has been only a four-cent increase in the 27 years that have elapsed since then (the gas tax was moved from 15 cents to 19 cents per gallon in 1997). By comparison, Ohio levies a 28-cent per gallon gas tax and Wisconsin a 33.5-cent per gallon tax. Though Indiana also charges 19 cents per gallon, it also has divested the expense of the I-80 freeway by selling it to a private company that now operates it as a toll road. Illinois also charges 19 cents per gallon but also offsets that amount with numerous toll roads. When comparing state road revenue num- 07599183 Barry County Road Commission Managing Director Brad Lamberg leads an overview of road conditions and funding issues affecting the county. bers nationwide, Michigan ranks 30th in average per-mile expenditure and 48th in terms of per capital annual expense for road repair, maintenance and construction. To keep the road services that Barry County drivers have become accustomed to, the BCRC forecasts that $11.7 million in revenue is needed each year. Because a typical year’s revenue comes in at $6.8 million, creating a $4.8 million shortfall, the county is falling behind each year. Lamberg was prepared to talk about possible solutions and introduced Joanna Johnson, Kalamazoo County Road Commission managing director and Dave Healy, supervisor of that county’s Texas Township, who addressed special assessment districts as one possibility. Texas Township is the only township of 16 in Kalamazoo County that dedicates a road tax to the KCRC for maintenance, repair and construction. After a vote to approve the special assessment proposal, Healy said residents are reporting great satisfaction in road condition upkeep and improvements with what works out to be a $60 annual assessment. In Barry County, six townships have dedicated road millages in place, and Fiala, pointed out that those that do have the best roads in the county — with Orangeville Township providing an outstanding example. “The general consensus among most people is that they pay too many taxes right now, and we don’t want to get into that debate,” said Lamberg in a telephone interview following the meeting. “We just want to point out what people do pay for roads and the position it puts us in.” According to surveys distributed during the meeting and now being returned, Lamberg reports that most respondents recognize the funding difficulty and would be willing to increase their driving costs by five to 10 cents per mile, up from the current 2.5-cent permile tax. After its opening offer to educate a key seg- ment of the community with the 2012 Road Summit, the road commission plans to expand its outreach to larger segments of the community through various marketing and advertising venues. Though his topic was one of some seriousness, Lamberg was able to close the road summit on a humorous note after ending his remarks with a call for collaboration on road funding issues. “Who collaborated on the project [in downtown Hastings] that has Broadway and Michigan under repair at the same time?” came a final query from the audience. “Apparently, no one,” deadpanned Lamberg, who also quickly added the project is a state highway jurisdiction. First Communicants celebrate at St. Rose First Communion, considered to be one of the holiest and most important occasions in a Roman Catholic person’s life, was celebrated at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church on Sun., May 5. Pictured with their leaders and Father Richard Altine are the 22 first communicants, front row (from left), Andrea Wheeler, Ian Dexter, Tevor Hummer, Kierstyn Downs, Lyndsey Herron, and Daniel Shay. Second row, Cassidy Rosser, Jennifer Logan, Emily Sedgewick, Noah Kronenwetter, Andre Perez, and Drew Gleeson. Third row, Ella McFadden, Noah Short, Christopher Sharrar, and Brooklynn Youngs. Fourth row, Kaelynn Brown, Fiona Doyle, Abigail Salvador, Rachel Lyttle. Fifth row, Michael Brown and Nathan Burkhead. Back row, Allyson Shinavier, Father Altine, Jacquelyn Tolles, and Kelly Dillon. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 10, 2012 — Page 3 DK TOP 10, continued from page 1 Michael Bassett University with a major in biomedical engineering and then pursuing in the medical field. His special interests are weight-lifting, running, drawing, physics, anatomy, health and sleeping. Nicole Alaine Blaszak, 17, is the daughter of Don an Linda Blaszak. She earned a 3.981 GPA and participated in marching and symphonic band, student council, Teens Against Tobacco Use, equestrian team, Big Brothers Big Sisters and National Honor Society. Blaszak plans to study criminology at Eastern Michigan University. She hopes to work for the FBI in the Behavioral Analysis Unit and to own a horse rescue and rehabilitation center. Blaszak enjoys riding her horse, Katie, and competing in speed events. Her hobbies are reading, putting puzzles together and 4-H. Ryan Mitchel Hook, 18, son of Steve and Michelle Hook earned a 3.958 GPA. He participated in varsity soccer, National Honor Society, varsity baseball, Quiz Bowl, Students Against Destructive Decisions, TATU, Youth Leadership Summit, varsity basketball and student council. Hook’s awards and recognitions include DAR Good Citizen; Scholar Athlete finalist; varsity soccer most valuable player twice; varsity baseball coaches award twice; and varsity basketball coaches award twice. Hook plans to attend Michigan State University at Lyman Briggs College to major Nicole Blaszak in human biology. He plans to work in the medical field as a dermatologist. Special interests include sports, spending time with family and friends, swimming, camping, sleeping, fishing, biking, running. Elizabeth Nancy Crookston, 17, is the daughter of John and Geri Crookston. She earned a 3.957 GPA and participated in choir, and Youth Editorial Staff for two years. Crookston took first place in the Write-Away contest. She plans to attend Aquinas College and major in English Education, then plans a career in teaching. Crookston’s special interests are writing, photography and poetry. Sarah Lyn Eddy, 18, is the daughter of Paul and Chris Eddy. She achieved a 3.874 GPA. Her school activities included Delton Kellogg Theatre Arts Company, marching and concert bands, student council, National Honor Society, Green Team and TATU. She was given the Director’s Award for band, musicianship and merit awards for band. Eddy plans to attend Western Michigan University to study general science and mathematics with a major to follow. She is planning a career in the medical field. Her interests are singing, dancing, writing music, playing badminton, archery, acting, reading and being with her family. Chelsea Elizabeth Martin, 17, is the daughter of Barry and Catherine Martin. She earned a GPA of 3.869. Ryan Hook Elizabeth Crookston Sarah Eddy Chelsea Martin Meghan Boer Hannah Smith Martin participated in the Delton Kellogg Theatre Arts Company, band, National Honor Society and TATU. She was named Miss Delton 2010. Martin plans to attend Alma College to study science and performing arts. Her interests include Broadway musicals, playing the flute and reading. Meghan Marie Boer, 17, daughter of Pete Nerves fray as county commissioners continue planning ordinance resolution together and allow the board to bring ideas together but, when I was elected chairman, I did not lose my voice. I still have the right to represent the people of this county and of District 6.” Addressing VanNortwick directly, who had objected to statements made by Stolsonburg that VanNortwick termed biased, Stolsonburg issued a personal challenge. “We have chosen to add another layer of government. We’re putting another ordinance out there for people to deal with. I find that a little novel in the approach in that we’re supposed to be reducing government under these circumstances and, in fact, we’re increasing it.” Commissioner Jeff VanNortwick “This is the second or third time you’ve brought accusations against me personally. And if you’re going to do that again, you better have the facts. I do not have an agenda in regards to this, and I do not have any type of bias. I’m simply discussing it from my point of view and from the point of view of the people in my district.” VanNortwick used his concluding member’s time some minutes later to respond. “I have nothing to say, Mr. Chairman, other than I think when we come to have conversations over sensitive subjects that we should be in tune to everybody’s feelings,” said Van Nortwick, “and not use any office as a bully pulpit.” In other business, the board: • Received a first-quarter report from Valerie Byrnes, director of the Barry County Economic Development Alliance, highlights of which included the realignment of Barry County from Region 3 to Region 8 in the state’s regional planning commission structure. The change will move Barry County in closer cooperation with municipalities to the north and is expected to provide enhanced economic opportunities. Byrnes suggested that the annual membership fee of $2,828 be divided evenly between the county and its townships to which Commissioner Dan Parker inquired of fellow board members if the issue could be approved immediately. Stolsonburg suggested that the matter be presented to a future committee of the whole meeting previous to a formal resolution for approval at a subsequent official board meeting. Byrnes also called attention to a jobs program titled Ready Now, which links unemployed and underemployed individuals with currently available positions. Following models used in Holland and in Ionia County, the program will work with 10 area employers to call attention to 50 available job opportunities and connect them to people seeking employment. Among other highlights, Byrnes mentioned that Keltech of Delton has been named on the 50 Companies to Watch in Michigan for 2012, that Bradford White of Middleville has completed construction of its training facility and anticipates new jobs to be created in 2012, and that ChemQuest has successfully relocated into the industrial park in Middleville and anticipates 22 new jobs with five years. • Heard the announcement of Joyce Snow as a candidate for commissioner of District 3 which encompasses Barry, Hope and a portion of Rutland Charter Township. • Received a clarification statement from Larry Neil that he is a member of and not the chair of the agriculture preservation board, as incorrectly stated in past Banner accounts. “Paul Wing has served as chairman for several years, and he’s done that with great patience,” said Neil. “We’ve had many contentious times in the last two years and Paul’s perseverance has allowed him to hang in there. He’s a fellow with high standards.” • Approved remaining subcontracts for flooring and mechanical work on the Cottages at Thornapple Manor project for a total contract price of just over $5 million. • Approved the expenditure of $8,889 from the diverted felons fund to supplement a $4,250 federal grant to send an eight-member drug court team and the circuit court judge to training on the development of a district court treatment drug court. • Approved the re-appointment of Jack Miner and Michael Barney to three-year terms and Joyce Snow to the remainder of a three-year term to the Barry County Planning Commission. • Approved the appointment of Joyce Snow to complete a term ending in December 2013 on the Barry County Parks and Recreation board. • Approved the 2013 budget calendar concluding with a public hearing and adoption of the 2013 budget in October. • Approved a current year budget amendment to align general fund expenditures with adjustments to the prosecutor, equalization and medical examiner budgets. • Approved revisions to a portion of the county policy regarding the use of information technology resources. • Approved changes to the defined-benefit retirement packages of county courthouse employees and sheriff command officers, increasing employee contributions to the plan by 2.5 percent as addressed by collective bargaining agreement effective May 1. The Commission moved into closed session for attorney consultation regarding trial or settlement strategy in connection with pending litigation. The next board of commission meeting will be a committee of the whole session Tuesday, May 15, in the commissioners meeting room at the Barry County Courthouse beginning at 9 a.m. 3.789 GPA. Her activities included Big Brothers Big Sisters, National Honor Society, student council, SADD, cross country, Health Occupation Students of America, local and Michigan state president. Smith won the Gold Key Scholarship for Kellogg Community College. She plans to attend Kellogg Community College and earn a bachelor’s degree in nursing. Smith hopes to work in the Cancer Care Center at Bronson Battle Creek. Her interests include baking, camping, the outdoors, researching Titanic history, riding horses, reading, as well as singing and dancing to Frank Sinatra music. Chickens and signs topics at next Hastings Planning Commission meeting Chickens and signs will be on the agenda of the next regular meeting of Hastings Planning Commission, slated for 7:30 p.m. Monday, June 4, in the council chambers of Hastings City Hall, 201 E. State St. During that meeting, the commission will hold two public hearings — one on changes to city ordinances to allow residents in the single family residential zone to raise chickens for egg production (not meat), and second to discuss allowing wall signs on auxiliary buildings in the industrial and business district, where signs are currently allowed only on primary buildings. In addition to scheduling the two hearings, the commission also discussed how city zoning could be more compliant with adjacent zoning in Rutland Charter Township along the M-37 corridor. The commission is also beginning to look at its master plan, which it is required to do every five years. 77567663 by Doug VanderLaan Editor Preservation of agriculture and open space in Barry County will likely survive the discussion and politics of county government. The relationships between commissioners may not. After having recommended at last week’s committee of the whole meeting that the full board direct its agricultural preservation board to amend and update the agricultural preservation ordinance as well as to prepare a separate open space preservation ordinance, commissioners apparently still had scores to settle at Tuesday’s official board of commissioners meeting before officially providing approval to the resolution. “I think this board is sending some mixed signals to the general public in regard to farmland and open space,” said Commissioner Jeff VanNortwick of last week’s 6-2 vote to recommend that the two ordinances be separate. “We had an opportunity to amend an ordinance to include open space that, essentially, aligns Barry County with a number of other counties, state statutes and other elements. “We have chosen to add another layer of government,” he said; “we’re putting another ordinance out there for people to deal with. I find that a little novel in the approach in that we’re supposed to be reducing government under these circumstances and, in fact, we’re increasing it.” Van Nortwick’s statement summarized the discussion of one week previous when, in a frustrating review of the issues, some commissioners expressed seeing no distinction between including the new open space ordinance with the existing agriculture preservation ordinance or dealing with them as separate issues. When Commissioner Ben Geiger referred last week to the issue as a toss up and characterized it with a colloquial expression, VanNortwick took issue. “When comments like ‘is it either paper or plastic?’ are thrown out there, it does a little belittling to those folks who have spent a great deal of time on an ordinance [and] came to us to support their ideals, and then we essentially go in another direction. “Whether it’s paper or plastic, let’s err on the judgment of those folks we have entrusted, that we have put this document in front of, let’s entrust all of their hard work and volunteerism. Instead, we’re seeking to enlarge government. I, for one, have to stand my ground and vote against this. We’re better served to have one ordinance, period.” Commission Chair Craig Stolsonburg waited until the resolution was approved on a 6-2 vote — with VanNortwick and Commissioner Don Nevins again voting in the minority — before returning to additional statements from last week’s committee of the whole meeting that raised his objections. “I’m going to go back to some comments that Commissioner Van Nortwick made about my role as chairman,” began Stolsonburg. “Yes, I was elected chairman to bring ideas and Michelle Boer, earned a GPA of 3.844. She has been involved with the Delton Kellogg Theatre Arts Company, marching and symphonic band, TATU, Big Brothers Big Sisters and NHS. Boer has received special recognition in Spanish, English, math and band. She plans to attend Eastern Michigan University majoring in Spanish and communication, and minoring in teaching English as a second language. Boer plans to be a translator or Spanish educator. Her special interests are Spain and spending time with friends and family. Hannah Dean Smith, 18, is the daughter of Donald and Patricia Smith. She earned a �Page 4 — Thursday, May 10, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Fracking ban is in the best interests of Michigan Super spark Jeff Baurs sent this photo, taken at Prairieville Township Park on the north side of Gull Lake. He captured streaks of lightning as they illuminated the sky Thursday evening, May 3 We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. We’ll select a photograph for publication each week. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom, Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Do you know? Ham exchange Do you recognize any of the people in this photo, which is believed to have been taken at Hastings Manufacturing Company? The photo was taken by Barth Studio. The calendar appears to show May. The item being exchanged is a Swift’s Premium canned ham. Is the woman being given the ham for retirement? As a contest prize? Or is the woman in the center presenting the ham to the man on her right? Do you know any of these people? Do you know why the photo was taken? What can you tell us about this? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event to reunite the photos with their original clippings or identify photos that may never have been used. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email n e w s @ j adgraphics.com; or call 269-945-9554. We have received several responses to photos published in the past few weeks. The photo last week was of the Hastings Bottle Band. The man seated in the photo was not yet identified. The men standing (from left) were identified as possibly Lewis Hine, Dr. Wes Logan, Virgil Slee, unknown man, and Ken Laberteaux. Hine was a band director in Hastings and Clarksville and was said to have been organizer of the unusual troupe. In the photo of the women in party hats sitting on a merry-go-round, Jeanice Dalman recognized her mother, Dorothy Barnum (back, fourth from left). Barnum was a member of the Woodgrove Brethren Parish and the Ladies Aid Society, so maybe the photo was an outing for one of those groups. The photo likely was taken at Charlton Park on Thornapple Lake. met? Have you Timer provides perpetual encouragement Gary Ivinskas could be found at the track at Hastings High School’s Baum Stadium at Johnson Field doling out encouragement for runners on both the Hastings and the Forest Hills Eastern track teams Tuesday afternoon. Since becoming the head timer for Hastings Area Schools, Ivinskas has become known for his positive words of encouragement for all runners as they run and finish their races, regardless of what school’s uniform they wear. Ivinskas, who grew up in Detroit, came to Hastings in 1987 via Alaska, where he taught in an Eskimo community for four years. A special education teacher at Hastings High School for 26 years, Ivinskas coached distance from 1989 to 1992 with head coaches Pat Murphy and Paul Fulmer before becoming head timer in 1992. Ivinskas, who has competed in four iron man triathlons, said he enjoys being a track official where he can see young people outside and active. Polish nickname. Worst summer job: Cleaning the oil fryers that they used to make pork rinds. Best trip I ever took: A 52-day wilderness canoe trip through northwest Ontario with my former wife, Jennifer Strauss. It was awesome, and I have been on a lot of great trips. If I could go back in time: I would go back to the mountain man era in the American West. If I could meet a famous American: It would be Barack Obama. I like his sense of balance when things are intense. I like his sense of fairness and justice for all. If I were a super hero, my superpower would be: Getting everybody to do their best at whatever they do. Gary Ivinskas “I really enjoy helping and watching kids run and do their best,” he said. “I work with some great volunteers who help out each week. We couldn’t do this without them.” What most people don’t know about me: I am the luckiest human being on the planet! Nickname growing up: Stosh; it’s a Each week, The Banner profiles a person from the community working behind the scenes, whose efforts may not make headlines, but whose dedication makes Barry County shine. We’ll provide a quick peek each week at some of Barry County’s stars. Do you know someone who should be featured? Send information to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@jadgraphics.com. In recent weeks, hydraulic fracturing — more commonly known as fracking — has become a hot topic throughout Barry County. The concern shown by area residents shouldn’t be a surprise to anyone. Looking back, we have a history of protecting the county’s natural beauty by taking environmental issues seriously. So, when residents heard about the practice of fracking and its potential risks, they wanted more information. What’s fracking all about? It’s a drilling process in which millions of gallons of clean, drinkable water are chemically treated and forced underground to break up rock and dislodge trapped gas and oil deposits. Most of the wastewater is then returned to the surface where it is recycled or stored in underground wells. Proponents of the process say it’s good for Barry County because it will provide some badly needed jobs and provide an alternative supply for oil and natural gas. Opponents say the risks are simply too high. A recent report released by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection lists all the chemicals found in the drilling fluid. Many of them are known carcinogens. Last year in Michigan, the state supervisor of wells issued new permitting instructions for drillers. Drillers will have to give the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality safety information about the chemicals they’re using — but they do not have to report anything that’s considered a trade secret. The substances will be termed “proprietary chemicals.” In other words, the companies want us to allow them to put unknown chemicals in the ground as part of their drilling process, yet they don’t have to disclose the makeup of those specific chemicals to state authorities under the guise of “company trade secrets.” The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is expected to release a nationwide study of drinking water impacted by fracking sometime in 2014 and has already released a draft of the findings from several studies underway. The final report, however, may not be available until sometime in 2015. Across our county, residents are voicing environmental concerns over the process with questions on whether state and national agencies have enough sound information to make a case for its safety. According to Mike Shelton, a geologist with the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, fracking has been around in the northern part of our state since 1952. Shelton told an audience at the Pierce Cedar Creek Institute last week that the northern Michigan wells used approximately 40,000 to 100,000 gallons of water. He went on to say that the new process would use up to 6.7 million gallons of water per well — or 100,000 gallons per day. That’s a lot of water, and, even though many experts claim the process is safe, there still remains a lot of unanswered questions. At last week’s county board meeting, local residents were on hand to voice their concerns with fracking and its safety. Commission Chair Craig Stolsonburg told those in attendance that he and County Administrator Michael Brown were in contact with a consultant for advice on how the county should respond to the controversy. In that Barry County has large tracts of state-owned property, drawing thousands each year as part of our tourism industry, as well as a strong agricultural base, it’s imperative that Barry County commissioners, township boards and individual citizens send a strong message to state leaders of their concerns. In Durham, N.C., city and county leaders are recommending taking more time to understand the potential risks and have called for postponing the legalization of the process until 2016, along with a four-year moratorium on hydraulic fracturing. “There is just a lot of stuff we don’t know about this right now,” said Deborah Luecken, chair of Durham’s environmental affairs board. “[We’d] like the decision to legalize it What do you Last week’s question: Many public school boards have opted for or are considering the extension of board member terms from four years to six years. Are you in favor of longer school board terms? Yes No Fred Jacobs, vice president, J-Ad Graphics think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. Feel free to leave an opinion or comment. 8% 92% to be post-postponed.” Researchers have found that wastewater injected into the ground by drilling operations is the likely cause for an increase in the number of earthquakes reported in the central part of the U.S. from 2000 to 2011. In March of last year, an energy company was given the go-ahead by the state to increase the pressure of wastewater injections near Youngstown, Ohio. The Youngstown area is not normally prone to earthquakes, but a dozen earthquakes were reported from March to December 2011. Ohio’s department of natural resources has now issued a finding that wastewater injection related to fracking probably caused the quakes. Even though fracking has been credited with reducing the costs of natural gas to the lowest level in a decade, a growing number of concerned citizens are calling for elected officials at all levels, to go slow, until more information is known about the process. According to Susan Harley, an attorney and Michigan policy director for Clean Water Action, who spoke at Pierce Institute last week, the price of natural gas has dropped 646 percent, and inventories of natural gas are at their highest ever. So why risk the practice of fracking now? I think Barry County residents have reason to be concerned. The county has more than 370 named lakes and a number of rivers and streams that could be impacted if county and state government doesn’t put the necessary controls in place. Plus, Michigan is home to the largest bodies of freshwater in the world — something that officials at all levels must take seriously. You only have to look south to Calhoun County where July 26, 2010, Enbridge Energy Partners LLP reported a 30-inch pipeline rupture near Marshall. The release, estimated at 819,000 gallons, entered Talmadge Creek and flowed into the Kalamazoo River, which feeds into Lake Michigan. Heavy rains caused the river to overtop existing dams and carried oil 30 miles downstream on the Kalamazoo River. According to state officials, safety procedures were in place to protect the company from such a spill, but it still happened, leaving the company with the responsibility to clean up the mess. This was a simple pipeline that was supposed to have safeguards. Fracking is a much more complex and unknown process. Michigan must put the necessary regulations in place to control the chemicals and the storage procedures related to fracking, going forward. Citizens gathered in Lansing Tuesday to protest the sale of oil and gas mineral rights leases for more than 90,000 acres of public land in 21 counties, the largest portion being in Barry County. In addition to the state-owned land that has been leased to oil companies, nearly 150 property owners in every township in Barry County have already signed up. Michigan residents should demand that the state value safety rather than risking the environment when so many questions remain unanswered. When companies inject chemicals into the ground at depths of over 5,000 feet and then return huge amounts of contaminated water to the surface, residents are right to be concerned. Storing wastewater in underground cells — along with the potential of gases thrown off by the process — should require local and state officials to take the time to fully understand all of the consequences of the process. We’ve been drilling for natural gas and oil in West Michigan for decades, but fracking is different — these companies aren’t just drilling, they’re using questionable chemicals and high pressure underground to extract deposits. It is better to err on the side of safety and to protect the natural beauty of Barry County and the rest of Michigan rather than falling for possible short-term economic gains. We should all be asking ourselves, “Is this process worth the risk?” For this week: Road conditions and maintenance funding is expected to soon hit crisis levels. Are you willing to support increased funding for roads through ... q A higher gas tax q A road millage q Neither �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 10, 2012 — Page 5 Business and government, not people, profit from oil and gas leases IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV Debate over sanctions disrespectful to circuit court judge To the editor: I recently read the news story about the sanctions handed down to the Barry County prosecutor in regard to Tom Evans not following court rules. According to the story, Mr. Evans feels when he is warned or sanctioned by the court for not following court rules, it is political in nature. I think this is very disrespectful to the circuit court judge and our Michigan court system. Mr. Evans made comments that Julie Nakfoor Pratt was there in the courtroom to support the defense in regard to the sanctions, as was her husband who is a Hastings City police officer. Does Mr. Evans think that only he has business in the courtroom? Attorney David Gilbert said that apparently state law and rules set by the Michigan Supreme Court do not apply to Mr. Evans. All that was asked of Mr. Evans was for him to do his job, and if he had done his job, he would have saved the taxpayers money and time, along with money and time for the defense attorney and his client. If the people of Barry County would listen to the talk on the street, they would hear the many comments such as, “If you’re going to get arrested for something, get arrested in Barry County, because the prosecutor’s office either plea bargains the cases away, or just fails to prove their case in court.” Victims of crimes should have a say in whether their case is plea bargained, and if so, to what degree. Under Mr. Evans’ watch, the victim is not consulted and has no say. The plea bargain is made, and the victim hears about it at sentencing, making the victim a victim twice (once by the accused, and the second time by the prosecutor’s office). I think Barry County needs a prosecutor who knows the law, follows the court rules and looks out for the best interest of the people of Barry County. Support Julie Nakfoor Pratt for prosecutor in August and get the prosecutor’s office back on track with justice for the people. Ken Langford, Hastings Elected officials should fight for justice To the editor: Recently the Barry County Circuit Court sanctioned the Barry County prosecutor’s office for failing to abide by Michigan court rules. Sanctions by the court are almost unheard of in West Michigan. Observers of Barry County’s courts do not recall a prosecutor ever being sanctioned in the past, yet the prosecutor’s office was ordered to pay a fee of $250. Prosecutor Tom Evans said he does not agree with the sanction, yet according to reports Evans said, “I cut my losses and paid the money out of my own pocket.” This is one of the problems with our current prosecutor. He would not fight a sanction he disagreed with. When Mr. Evans signed the court order and paid the sanction, in cash, out of his own pocket, he is admitting responsibility. I can only conclude that to “cut my losses” was more important than his principles. There is something troubling and insincere with his statements and his actions. To most of us, $250 is a lot of money. To most of us, a commitment to our beliefs and ethical standards is priceless. Mr. Evans said the hearing, in regards to the sanction, was “the most repugnant example of politics in the courtroom that I have ever seen.” If this sanction was all about politics, why did he admit responsibility and pay the sanction? If Mr. Evans will not stand up for his personal convictions, don’t expect him to fight very hard for the rights of the citizens of Barry County as the prosecutor should do. This disgraceful state of affairs illustrates the reason we need a change in prosecutors in Barry County. Mr. Evans feels it is easier to cut his losses and plea bargain down a criminal charge than to take a chance on a jury trial, which he historically has been unsuccessful in winning. Now is the time for the citizens of Barry County to cut their losses, and replace the current prosecutor in the August Republican Primary. I ask that voters support Julie Nakfoor Pratt in the August primary for Barry County prosecutor. Let’s elect the candidate with integrity, honesty and pride for Barry County prosecutor. Wayne R. Lydy, Hastings Follow Detroit’s ban on fracking To the editor: I am aware of the oil and gas lease auction of Yankee Springs, Fish Lake, and some of the Middleville area on May 8 in Lansing. The idea of allowing unregulated industrial goliaths to invade Yankee Springs is anathema to what many consider to be a jewel in the crown of this great state. Our community and our character are shaped and strengthened by the natural resources that we are privileged to be living among. As a resident of Orangeville Township, I feel responsible more than most to preserve, protect and defend these resources for all. However, do we want to be the canaries in the coal mine too? In these difficult economic times it is easy to understand how Barry County citizens are being persuaded to sign leases with unscrupulous energy companies. However, many scientific studies, reports and excruciating firsthand accounts of the horrific downside of hydraulic fracturing are coming to light as more and more communities around the country are being negatively impacted by the devastating effects on the people, the water, the land and animal populations located near these sites. I have been scouring the Internet for information and some things I have learned are that there is a direct correlation between ‘fracking’ and some earthquakes, a single fracking well extracts and contaminates up to 6 million gallons of clean water from our aquifers. Each well can be fracked up to 18 times. Imagine 108 million gallons of clean water being pumped from one well. There are as many as 800 hazardous chemicals injected into the wells, and due to the so-called Halliburton loophole, we can’t know what many of these chemicals are. The wastewater brine is stored in open-air pits which create toxic air. Some is shipped out of state. Some is blasted back into the ground and may cause earthquakes, and some is dumped on roadways where unsuspecting children splash in it and animals drink it. Methane has been known to seep into people’s wells and they have been able to light the water on fire from their taps. Many people in the country signed a lease, destroyed their health, lost their drinking water, clean country air, peace of mind, peace at all and basically their right to life. Water is life and our identity. When the water is too contaminated for humans or animals and other living things to drink, bathe in or swim in, then what? Will you move away from beautiful Barry County? Where will you go? We are as responsible for destroying our aquifers and wells as the oil and gas vampires who will suck them dry and leave poison in return. What can we do? Well, Detroit has already done it. The city is the first in Michigan to ban fracking. Other communities around the country have successfully done this, too. I respectfully asked the Orangeville Township Board to consider drafting a proposal to ban fracking from our jewel, our Yankee Springs. We are all in this together. Corinne Turner The Hastings To the editor: Most of us are aware of the recent publicity concerning the leasing activity in Barry County by oil companies. Some will tell you that it is good for the economies of the our state and the nation as a whole. But is it really in the best interest of the consumer of energy? Or is it in the interest of local, state, and federal governments from the standpoint of the revenue they receive from leasing fees and royalties from the oil and natural gas production? Hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, is done by injecting hazardous chemicals, such as benzene, toulene, xylene and ethylbenzene, into the earth along with up to 5 million gallons of water for deep wells which are beginning to be required by regulators. How can the introduction of these chemicals be good for the environment and for human beings? I would like to hear a convincing answer from our state department of environmental quality, now newly named department of quality of life. Ha. Let alone where is the three to five million gallons of water per deep well going to come from? The 2002 DEQ budget was $100 million dollars. Gov. Rick Snyder cut the budget to $21 million for 2012. Now, how are they going to effectively enforce the rules and regulations? Not very well, I am sure. If the budgets are gutted, there is no possible way that additional drilling can be regulated and supervised as effectively as in the past. There have already been problems with groundwater contamination from fracking in Ohio and Pennsylvania. But, according to a DEQ spokesman in a recent news interview, there would not be a problem regulating and protecting the environment. He said this when already there have been incidents of contamination and pollution from fracking, oil spills and pipeline breaks throughout the country — two alone in Michigan in recent years. How To the editor: A drug trend is emerging drug trend is happening in Barry County and West Michigan, and we must all do our part to help prevent the issues associated with synthetic marijuana. Right now, members of the Barry County Substance Abuse Task Force are encouraging community members and especially parents, to “get in the know” about synthetic marijuana — drugs like K2 and Spice, herbal incense blends that when smoked, create a high similar to THC, the main active ingredient in marijuana. Synthetic drugs such as K2 and Spice are again making it into the news — into the headlines and into our community. These emerging drug trends are cause for concern and a good reason to learn more and take action. Michigan’s Poison Control Center notes significant increases in the cases of reports of exposure to synthetic marijuana, as well as one reported death in Michigan due to synthetic marijuana use. Synthetic marijuana raises concerns on many levels. First, these substances are being sold, legally and illegally, to people of all ages, including youths. Secondly, these products are strong chemicals with potentially Banner Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 77567534 John Jacobs by polluting and destroying all the natural things that God provided for us and our wellbeing. We have surely done a poor job of protecting our resources. More oil spills, honeycombing of the earth in the name of profits for the oil and gas companies and our politicians and governments cannot possibly benefit mankind. We must not do it. If not for ourselves, we must provide a legacy of stewardship for our children. Isn’t that reason enough? Robert C. Taylor, Hastings Citizens need to contact elected officials To the editor: The citizens of Barry County and all of Michigan need to call, write or e-mail all of their state representatives and the governor to let them know how upset citizens are about the horrible process of hydraulic fracking. This is a process that is very possibly a health hazard of contaminating our water supplies and our ground. We need a ban on hydraulic fracking now. Hunters and fishermen, beware. George C. Williston had a great letter to the editor in the April 26 Hastings Banner about the fracking process. Deanna Garrett Middleville Use of synthetic marijuana is alarming trend Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... well did the state do in preventing those accidents? If the past is any indicator of the future, we can expect companies to pollute and cover it up, eventually move out of Michigan and leave the burden of cleanup on the state and the taxpayers. So this becomes a win/win for the oil and gas producers, as well as the state and federal governments by providing additional revenue which they can continue to squander just like they have in the past. As of now there are 12,000 wells in Michigan. The State of Michigan Tuesday auctioned off more than 23,000 acres in Barry County alone. All together, the drilling rights to 500,000 acres across the state of Michigan were to be sold to the oil and gas exploration companies. What will this do to our environment? Water pollution, mini-eartquakes, cancer and soil contamination are all individual or collective results that can be expected. So with these perils even being a possibility, we would have to be insane to allow this to happen. The State of Michigan profited $178 million last year from gas and oil companies through royalties, permits and the like. Just think what the cash flow will be like after they auction off 500,000 acres. A recent top-level U.S. Environmental Protection Agency official Al Armendriz recently resigned (he was forced out) because of a statement he made: “And so you make examples out of people who are in this case not complying with the law.” Our current leaders made him apologize and resign. Why is this not what the EPA should be doing? Enforcing compliance? Apparently not. That incident is just another indicator of the true intent of government regulators and leadership in Washington of them fulfilling their responsibilities by not enforcing the laws and regulations of this nation. Man was not put on this earth to destroy it dangerous effects — often labeled “Not for human consumption” — and with no directions, ingredients or safety precautions listed. And, third, erratic and abnormal behavior is associated with these drugs and can lead to overdose, violence and even death. Finally, the long-term health consequences of using these synthetic drugs are simply not known. Because something is legal, we often consider it safe, regulated and FDA-approved. However, this is not the case with these synthetic drugs. These substances may be legal to sell and purchase, but dangerous to consume. Nor are these substances regulated or approved by the FDA or any other reputable agency. The effects of consuming K2 and Spice include agitation, drowsiness, increased heart rate and blood pressure, seizures, vomiting, hallucinations, paranoia, tremors or shaking, loss of physical control, poisoning and overdose. The Barry County Substance Abuse Task Force is urging all residents to be aware and be cautious about such synthetic drugs. More information can be found at trusted websites, such as www.drugfree.org, www.theantidrug.org. Michigan Department of Community Health has prepared a fact sheet which can be found online at www.michigan.gov/docum e n t s / m d c h / K 2 _ S p i c e _ _General_Fact_Sheet_4.30.12_384319_7.pdf Residents should become educated about all substances — not just K2 and Spice, but about alcohol and other drugs, too. Parents need to monitor their children’s activities; be involved, spend time together. Most importantly, adults should talk to the children and young people in their lives about making healthy, safe choices. And, take action. Write a letter to legislators asking them to support current legislation in support of making synthetic marijuana illegal — this time for good. Visit www.legislature.mi.gov/ to locate and contact your legislators and let them know your concerns. For more information, feel free to contact the SATF by calling 269-948-4200. And, as always, should you or someone you know need help dealing with a substance abuse problem, call Barry County Community Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services at 269-948-8041. We all need to be partners in prevention, Liz Lenz, coordinator Barry County Substance Abuse Task Force �Page 6 — Thursday, May 10, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Longstreet named National Merit scholarship winner pool of more than 15,000 Finalists in the 2012 National Merit Scholarship Program. According to a press release from NMSC, National Merit Scholarship winners are the finalists in each state judged to have the Worship Together… 77567531 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. CHURCH OF THE LIVING GOD A full gospel church. 1240 W. State Rd., Hastings. Pastor Doug Davis. 269-948-9740. Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study 6 p.m. Sunday School and Youth Group for all ages. Come and worship the Lord with us! . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. ORANGEVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH 6921 Marsh Rd., 2 miles south of Gun Lake, Plainwell. Phone 269664-4377. OrangevilleBaptist.org. Pastors Dan Bowman and Adam Parmenter. Sundays - 9:45--10:45 a.m. “Dealing With Your Past” March through May. March 25 - 6 p.m. “Messiah in the Passover’ Seder Meal. March 31 - 7 p.m. Orangeville Cafe. April 8 - 7:30 & 11 a.m. Easter Celebration. April 22-27 - Evangelist Will Rice. Children, teen and adult Sunday School classes; 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Worship; 5:30 p.m. Junior and Senior High Word of Life Clubs. Tuesday - 9 a.m. Men’s Prayer and Bible Study. Wednesday - 6:30 p.m. Pre-school through 6th grade Word of Life Gophers & Olympians. Prayer & Bible Study - 7 p.m. 6 p.m. Teen Word of Life. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Rev. Ryan Wieland. Sundays - 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Service; Sunday School and Nursery available during both services (Summer Schedule - Adult Sunday School: 9 a.m., Worship & Children’s Programs 10 a.m.) Youth Group, Covenant Prayer, Choir, Chimes, Praise Band, Quilting Group, Community Breakfasts and more! Call the church office at (269) 721-8077 (M/W/F 9 a.m.-12 p.m.), e-mail office@mei.net or visit www.countrychapelumc.org <http://www.countrychapelumc.org/> for more information SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 or -517-852-1806. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. HASTINGS REFORMED CHURCH “A Historic Reformed Community.” Sunday morning services begin at 10 a.m. Meeting at the Barry County Commission on Aging building, 320 W. Woodlawn Ave., Hastings. Pastor: Peter Adams. 616-690-8609 padams@juno.com. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 9:15 Contemporary Worship, 10:30 a.m. Refreshments, 11 a.m. Traditional Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Pastor of Senior Adults and Visitation, Don Brail. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. for children, youths and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Senior High Youth Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Mid-Week: 6:30-7:45 p.m. Pioneer Clubs, age 4th to 5th grade, and Junior High Youth Group, 6th-8th grade. Thursday: 10 a.m. Senior Adult Discussion and 11:30 a.m., lunch at Wendy’s. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Sunday, May 13 - Worship at 8 and 10:45 a.m. Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. May 13 - Noisy Offering for Love, Inc.; Men’s AA at 7 p.m.; May 14 - Pennock Hospice at 5 p.m.; Adventurers Bible Study at 7 p.m.; Spiritual AA at 7:30 p.m. May 15 Congregation Council at 7 p.m. May 16 - Wordwatchers Bible Study at 10 a.m. May 17 - Clapper Kids Bell Choir at 3:45 p.m.; Grace Notes Bell Choir at 5:45 p.m.; Hare Raisers Rabbit Club at 7 p.m. May 19 Geranium Sale from 8:30 a.m. 12:30 p.m. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 9452645, fax 269-945-2698. Pastor Amy Luckey. http://www.discover-grace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 10 a.m. Sunday School for ALL Ages; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service; 6 p.m. NO Youth Group; 6 p.m. Adult Small Group. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian. blogspot.com. Thursday - 6:30 p.m. Choir Rehearsal. Friday - 9 a.m. Pickleball; 9 a.m. Golfer’s Group Meets. Saturday - 8:30 a.m. Breakfast Buddies; 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday - 4 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball; 6:30 p.m. Financial Peace University. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Fiberglass Products Lauer Family Funeral Homes 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 strongest combination of accomplishments, skills and potential for success in rigorous college studies. They were selected by a committee of college admissions officers and high school counselors. These scholars may use their awards at any regionally accredited U.S. college or university. Longstreet, son of Rob and Cathy Longstreet of Hastings, also was recently named to the high school’s academic top 10 and to the Hastings Rotary Club top 10. He earned his academic letter as a junior and is an officer in the National Honor Society. He is a Michigan High School Athletic Association scholar-athlete finalist, and an AP Scholar with Honor. Longstreet was named Exchange Club student of the month this past October, and was a member of the homecoming court. His other school-related activities include student council student body president, captain of Science Olympiad team and Key Club, participating in all for four years; Youth in Government, quiz bowl, prom committee and serving as a fifth grade camp counselor. He has was in the past three Hastings High School musicals, earning honorable mention in the Excellence Awards for theater his junior year and has been nominated for best supporting actor this year. Longstreet played junior varsity soccer and junior varsity golf for two years, freshman and junior varsity basketball and two years of varsity soccer, in which he earned honorable mention all-district and all-conference his senior year. Outside of school, Longstreet participated in the Youth Advisory Council of Barry County, has been a tutor, volunteered as a research assistant at the Kellogg Biological Station for two summers, and was a cast member in the Thornapple Players’ production of “Guys and Dolls.” He plans to attend Brown University in Rhode Island to study theater and chemistry. To select scholarship winners, a committee Joey Longstreet of educators appraised information submitted by both the finalists and their high schools: academic record, including difficulty level of subjects studied and grades earned; scores from two standardized tests; contributions Kellogg Community College will host an industrial welding open house at Hastings High School from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 16. The event, which is free and open to the public, will be in room E107 at the school, which is located at 520 W. South St. Information will be shared at the event regarding teen and adult KCC welding classes offered at the school, including classes in brazing, soldering, and various types of welding. For more information, call Kellogg Community College’s Fehsenfeld Center, 269-948-9500. AVERITT IS LOOKING FOR CLASS A CDL DRIVERS Hiring Event & Cookout Stop by for a sandwich and speak with a recruiter. HR Reps on site for immediate consideration. WHERE:Staybridge Inn 2001 Seneca Lane Kalamazoo, MI WHEN: Friday, May 11th Saturday May 12th 12:00 pm - 6:00 pm each day Can’t make it? Call Dave at 317-828-2351 or Visit us online at AVERITTcareers.com Equal Opportunity Employer Ronald Albert Nash FREEPORT, MI - Ronald Albert Nash, age 80, of Freeport went to his heavenly home on May 3, 2012. He was born August 11, 1931 in Hastings, the son of Albert and Hazel (Jenkins) Nash. Ron attended Hastings High School, graduating in 1949. He honorably served in the Korean War, stationed in Berlin, Germany. He married Suzanne Lewis on January 16, 1955. Ron retired from E.W. Bliss after 39 years of service. He was an active member of the American Legion Post #45 as well as the Hastings Moose Lodge, Lake Odessa Choral Society, Fraternal Order of Eagles and the First United Methodist Church. He was a volunteer for Barry County Commission on Aging, where he delivered meals on wheels. Ron was very passionate about all sports and was active in the Freeport Recreation Association. He loved to umpire and referee and was an official for MHSAA and ASA for many years. Ron was inducted into Freeport Softball Hall of Fame. Ron was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Hazel Nash and brother, Russell Nash. He is survived by his wife Suzanne (Lewis) Nash; daughters, Julie Keech of Middleville, Tammy (Brad) Daniels of Freeport; son, Dan (Amy) Nash of Freeport; six grandchildren and five great grandchildren; two sisters, Marie (Joe) Ulrich of Custer and Imogene Martin of Ohio. Memorial contributions may be made to the following: Lawrence J. Bauer American Legion Post #45, 2160 S. M-37 Hwy., Hastings, MI 49058 or Commission on Aging, 320 W. Woodlawn Ave., Hastings, MI 49058. The funeral service was held on Monday, May 7 at the First United Methodist Church, Hastings. Pastor Don Spachman officiated the service. Arrangements made by Girrbach Funeral Home, Hastings. See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 and leadership in school and community activities; an essay written by the finalist; and a recommendation written by a high school official. The number of winners named in each state is proportional to the state’s percentage of the nation’s graduating high school seniors. Ninety-one students from Michigan were named scholarship finalists. This year’s competition for National Merit Scholarships began in October 2010 when approximately 1.5 million juniors in some 22,000 high schools took the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, which served as an initial screen of program entrants. Last fall, the highest-scoring participants in each state, representing less than 1 percent of the nation’s high school seniors, were named semifinalists on a state representational basis. Only these 16,000 semifinalists had an opportunity to continue in the competition. From the semifinalist group, 15,000 students met the academic standards and other requirements to advance to the finalist level of the competition. By the conclusion of the 2012 program, about 8,300 finalists will have earned the “Merit Scholar” title and received a total of over $35 million in college scholarships. Area Obituaries KCC hosting industrial welding open house May 16 77567715 Joey Longstreet, a senior at Hastings High School, has been named a National Merit $2,500 Scholarship winner by National Merit Scholarship Corporation. The 2,500 Merit Scholar designees were chosen from a talent 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits Thomas P. Wood, Jr. NASHVILLE, MI – We have lost a wonderful father, grandfather, father-in-law, brother, uncle and special love of Colleen. Mr. Thomas P. Wood, Jr., age 84, of Nashville, passed away Monday, May 7, 2012 at Spectrum Health Butterworth Campus in Grand Rapids. Tom was born in Battle Creek on July 6, 1927, the son of the late Thomas P. and Fern A. (Arnold) Wood. He was raised in the Bellevue and Battle Creek areas and attended local schools. He was the widower of Yvonne "Bonnie" (French) Wood. The couple had been married over 53 years when she passed away. Tom was a member of the United States Navy and was honorably discharged in 1946. He worked as a Millwright at Eaton Corporation for 34 years before retiring in 1983. He then went to work part-time in the maintenance department at Pennock Hospital where he worked for six years. Tom enjoyed gardening, country dancing with his close friend Colleen and singing country music with various bands. He also loved to gather nuts and would sit and crack walnuts during the winter. During the summer, he and Colleen would travel to northern Michigan to spend time with their friends on Ford Lake in the Ludington area. Being outside in summer working in the garden was always a summer tradition that Tom looked forward to. Tom is survived by his two daughters, Dawn (Bill Wellman) Haight, Wendy (Bob) Bassett; two sons Tom (Debbie) Wood III, Dennis (Cindi) Wood; two sisters, Pauline (Vern) Webster, Lorna (George) Crawford; two brothers, Robert (Karen) Wood, Sam (Loretta) Wood; 14 grandchildren, 16 greatgrandchildren, and numerous step-grandchildren, step- great - grandchildren, and stepgreat-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by a very special lady in his life, Colleen Wells and her extended family. He was preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Yvonne (Bonnie); daughter, Loree Childers; son in-law, John Childers; and brothers, Dennis and Verl Wood. Funeral services will be held at Daniels Funeral Home, Nashville, at 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 12, 2012. George Crawford will officiate. Interment will take place immediately following the funeral service at Wilcox Cemetery in Maple Grove Township. The family will receive visitors Saturday, May 12 beginning at 11 a.m. until the funeral time at Daniels Funeral Home in Nashville. Memorial contributions can made to the family of Thomas Wood Jr. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Daniels Funeral Home in Nashville. Please visit our website at www.danielsfuneralhome.net for further details. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 10, 2012 — Page 7 State News Roundup Michigan universities MHSAA may alter rank high for participant age limit The representative council of the Michigan developing talent High School Athletic Association, at its spring meeting which concluded in Gaylord 101 BEST AND BRIGHTEST, contd. from page 1 Blake, Pennock CEO. “This designation honors them and the profound impact they make on the health and well-being of friends and neighbors.” “We are pleased to be acknowledged as a company that consistently exceeds traditional human resource practices,” pointed out Bill Wallace CEO/president of Hastings Mutual. “Our company encourages and is a leader in community involvement, actively promotes health and fitness awareness and employee education and development. We are proud to represent our community as an award-winning organization.” “This award is especially meaningful to our organization because it’s based on confidential feedback from our employees,” said Mark Kolanowski, CEO/president of Hastings City Bank. “It represents how they feel about their employer, and it tells me we’re on the right track. It’s again an honor to be recognized among the best in West Michigan.” Though the West Michigan 101 Best and Brightest is an MBPA program, it is based on replica programs that recognize best practice companies in metro Detroit, Chicago, Atlanta and Houston. HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, May 10 — Movie Memories presents the little gem, “Westward the Women,” 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, May 11 — preschool story time enjoys stories about butterflies, 10:30 to 11 a.m. Monday, May 14 — computer class tackles Job and Career Accelerator, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 15 — toddler story time enjoys stories about kites, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30; open chess club, 6 to 8 p.m. Call the Hastings Public Library for more information, 269-945-4263. Monday, approved a proposal for a vote by member schools that would change the organization’s Constitution to allow for a waiver of its maximum age limitation under narrowly defined circumstances. Ballots will be mailed this week. Schools have two weeks to return the ballots, which must be signed by the school principal and superintendent. The MHSAA will post the wording of the proposal on its website not later than May 14. Currently under MHSAA rules, a student who turns 19 prior to Sept. 1 of a school year is not eligible for interscholastic athletics. Michigan is one of approximately 40 states that use this maximum or have a younger maximum age limit. The MHSAA Constitution, which can only be changed by a two-thirds vote of member schools, does not allow the maximum age rule to be waived. Michigan is in the majority of states that do not allow waiver of the rule. Based on member school input, the council previously rejected proposals from the same member school district for a constitutional vote in 2010 and 2011. The school district did not exercise its option to launch its own peti- GRCC to host veterans resources fair The State of Michigan’s Department of Military and Veterans Affairs and Veterans’ Services Division are teaming up with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and Veterans Health Administration and Grand Rapids Community College to offer a oneday resources fair for military veterans and their families. The event will take place in Room 108 of Sneden Hall on the campus of Grand Rapids Community College Thursday, May 17, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The resources fair will offer veterans of all ages and branches of service the opportunity to meet one-on-one with federal, state, local and college representatives and learn about the various benefits they may be eligible to receive, including education and training opportunities, free or low-cost health care benefits, survivor and dependent services, home loans, legal services and burial benefits. No appointments are necessary. Austin Michael, born at Pennock Hospital on April 25, 2012 at 4:25 p.m. to Jami Roach of Shelbyville. Weighing 5 lbs. 1 oz. and 18 inches long. ***** Charlie Renee, born at Pennock Hospital on April 24, 2012 at 10:41 p.m. to Lyndsay and Kevin DeVault of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 5 ozs. and 18 1/2 inches long. Marriage Licenses Leroy Wesley Hayes, Hastings and Bobbi Lynn Rice, Hastings. Lawrence Linwood Roscoe, Hastings and Rebecca Sue Strouse, Saranac. Robert Peter Kerr, Chicago, IL and Catherine Rose Lankford, Chicago, IL. Arron Robert Patton, Hastings and Tia Leigh Purdum, Hastings. Michael John Zimmer, Saint Clair and Erika Marie Swartz, Hastings. Marines exchange vows Cpl. Curtis-Lcpl. Petersen Samantha Ann Petersen and Ryan Alton Curtis were united in marriage on Friday, March 24, 2012 at the wedding chapel in Jacksonville, NC. Parents of the bride are Sally and Gerry Petersen of Fort Atkinson, WI. Samantha graduated in 2008. Parents of the groom are Richard and Linda Curtis, sister Kelly of Hastings, MI. Ryan graduated in 2009. Ryan and Samantha were both stationed and met at Marine Base Camp Lejeune, Jacksonville, NC. The newlyweds went to Washington, D.C. for their honeymoon. Ryan’s unit deployed to Afghanistan in April for seven months. SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN Faster disability approval for people with ALS by Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist May is National ALS Awareness Month. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, more commonly referred to as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that attacks nerve cells and pathways in the brain and spinal cord. More than 5,600 people each year are newly diagnosed with ALS. As many as 30,000 Americans may currently be affected by this fatal condition. Social Security can help. People who have ALS meet the medical qualifications for Social Security disability benefits. ALS is one of Social Security’s “compassionate allowances.” To view a complete list of compassionate allowances conditions, go to www.socialsecurity.gov/compassionateallowances. The compassionate allowances initiative identifies claims where the nature of the applicant’s disease or condition clearly meets the statutory standard for disability. With the help of sophisticated new information technology, the agency can quickly identify potential compassionate allowances and begin monthly benefit payments. Social Security Commissioner Michael Astrue made the compassionate allowances initiative a top priority soon after he began his tenure as commissioner in 2007. Social Security launched the compassionate allowances program in 2008 with a list of 50 diseases and conditions. There are now more than 100 compassionate allowances conditions — and counting. For more information on the compassionate allowances initiative, visit www.socialsecurity.gov/compassionateallowances. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. 06780220 Michigan’s University Research Corridor institutions continue to competitively rank among the top research innovation clusters in the nation in producing the high-tech, highdemand talent required for the 21st century, according to a recent benchmarking report. The annual report commissioned by the URC shows the URC's member institutions — Michigan State University, the University of Michigan and Wayne State University — remain competitive as research hubs and as economic engines when compared with university consortia across the United States, said Jeff Mason, executive director for the URC. The report compares the performance of the best-known groups of universities in California, Illinois, Massachusetts, North Carolina and Pennsylvania against the URC. Each cluster includes three universities from the same geographical area that were selected based upon academic quality, research intensity and size of the institution. To view the report online, go to www.urcmich.org. tion drive of member schools; nor did it avail itself of an athletic eligibility advancement provision in the MHSAA Handbook which allows for over aged students to have four years of high school participation with their age group. Newborn Babies Sponsored by the Barry County Solid Waste Oversight Committee with thanks to the Barry County Fair Board, Waste Management, Barry-Eaton District Health Department, the Barry County Substance Abuse Task Force, Sheriff’s Department and Local Pharmacies BARRY COUNTY HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE, TIRE, AND MEDICINE & ELECTRONICS* COLLECTION! Saturday, May 12, 2012 from 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. At the Barry County Fairgrounds, 1350 N. M-37 Hwy. Don’t Rush to Flush! Help keep Your Home, Environment and Community Safe DISPOSE OF PRESCRIPTION DRUGS AND MEDICATIONS SAFELY Please keep medicine in original containers with name of drug clearly labeled. GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. *Most electronics, including kitchen appliances, will be accepted at no charge. This includes computers, cellphones, microwaves and stereo equipment. There is a $25.00 fee for items containing Freon. Console TVs, projection TVs, and wooden speakers cannot be accepted WE CANNOT ACCEPT Latex Paint: when dry it can go to the landfill Propane Tanks Commercially Generated Waste Radioactive Material Explosives Unknown Wastes Console Televisions Projection Televisions Wooden Speakers Tires heavily caked with dirt SCRAP AND JUNK TIRES There will be a charge for EACH* clean, scrap or junk tire brought to the collection: WE CAN ACCEPT Aqueous acids and bases; oil based paints; reactives; solvents; aerosol cans; automotive liquids; pesticides (liquids and solids); alkaline, nickel-cadmium and/or silver oxide batteries; liquid cleaners; heavy metal solutions; mercury-containing articles; prescription and over-the-counter medicines; Motor Oil (10 gallons per vehicle); automotive batteries. Tire Type Cost Standard tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1.00 Standard Tire on Rims . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $2.00 Truck Tire (16.5” - 19.5”) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $3.00 Truck Tires on Rims . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $6.00 Tractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $15.00 Tractor Tires on rims . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $27.00 *Additional charge for soiled or dirty tires For questions or for prices of tires over 19.5” call (269) 945-9516 extension 35 77567525 Call 945-9554 for more information. Do not pour paint, solvent, medicine, automotive oil, or chemicals down the drain or dump them in the trash where they may end up in our drinking water and lakes! Do not hold on to scrap or junk tires. Bring your items to the Barry County Household Hazardous Waste and Medicine Collection! �Page 8 — Thursday, May 10, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of by Elaine Garlock Tonight is the cemetery walk for the Lake Odessa Area Historical Society, meeting at 7 p.m. at Lakeside Cemetery. Members and guests are encouraged to bring along lawn chairs since the society meeting will be held on site. Refreshments will be served. Interpreters will be on hand to enlighten guests about the personages being highlighted. The Ionia County Genealogical Society will meet Saturday, May 12, at 1 p.m. at the Freight House on Emerson Street. The Tri-River Museum group meets Tuesday, May 15, at the Cascade Township Museum on Thornapple River Drive just a stone’s throw from Cascade Road, to the east. The 24 museums that were on the tour May 5 and 6 will give reports. Mother’s Day is upon us, coming Sunday, May 13. A small acreage on Eaton Highway near M50 was owned for many years by the Lake Odessa Co-op Elevator and was used for storage of chemicals and fertilizers, plus the equipment used for spraying crops. The property was transferred to Caledonia Elevator, along with the rest of the co-op property in the village. Later, the Caledonia company erected a totally new facility alongside the CSX railway on the north edge of Barry County on Section 2 of Woodland Township. This left the fertilizer plant property vacant. It is now in use again, filled with rolls of flexible tubing used for farm drainage by Hazel Brothers drainage company. Last week, the siding for the elevator was again filled with freight car loads of cotton seed. For the next few weeks, we will be seeing semi-trucks filling their trucks with the southern waste product to be used for cattle feed in mid-Michigan and points south. It is interesting to note the home base of the trucks that haul the cotton product away. Since Lake Odessa was in the far corner of the area covered by the Tri-River Museum group, the local museum drew fewer visitors over the weekend than those in Belding or Greenville. However, Lake Odessa drew people from Allegan, Vermontville, Lowell and more. Last week, Laurel Garlinger accompanied Art and Marcia Raffler on a trip to North Carolina to attend the wedding of their grandniece Allison Garlinger at Myrtle Beach where she has been employed several years in the golf industry. Her husband is a professional golfer. Sunday, Lorraine and Don McMillen hosted many family members for the re-enactment of wedding vows between Thomas Weinberg Sr. and his wife Morian, a sister of Lorraine. The Rev. George Speas led the informal event in the decorated gazebo. Their attendants were daughter Karen and son Thomas Jr. A bubble machine produced a multitude of bubbles to add to the celebration at the close of the event. Due to the unusual spring with its very early warm days in March, everything seems to be early this year. Now the allium has come into bloom. People who have dogwood state that it lasted in prime condition far longer than usual. Peonies are in bud stage. Snowball bushes are coming on steadily. See us for color copies, one-hour photo processing and all your printing needs. PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy., Hastings 77567697 This Mother’s Day, think of lifetime financial moves to help kids STOCKS The following prices are from the close If you’re a mother, you’ll probably get some nice cards and flowers on Mother’s Day. But of course, your greatest gifts are your children themselves. And since you want to see them happy and financially secure, perhaps you can use this Mother’s Day as an opportunity to consider ways to help your children at various stages of their lives. So, let’s take a look at steps you can take: When Your Children Are Young • Teach them to be savers — Encourage young children to put away part of their allowance, or any money they receive for household jobs, in a savings account. Offer to match their contributions dollar for dollar. • Help them become investors — Consider giving your children a few shares of stock in companies with which they are familiar. By following the movements of their stocks with them, you can explain how the markets work and how increasing share ownership is one key to helping build wealth. • Contribute to a college savings plan — One of the best things you can do to boost your children’s chances of success in life is to help them go to college. You’ve got several good college-savings vehicles available, such as a 529 plans, Coverdell Education Savings Accounts and custodial accounts. Your financial advisor can help you choose the vehicle that suits your needs and objectives. • Maintain adequate life insurance — When it was just you, it was a good idea to have life insurance — but now that you have a child, it’s an absolute necessity. When Your Children Enter the Working World • Encourage IRA contributions — An Individual Retirement Account (IRA) is a great retirement savings vehicle. As long as your children have earned income, they can contribute to an IRA, so you may want to help them “max out” on their contributions each year. While you can’t directly contribute to a child’s IRA, you can write a check to your child and encourage him or her to use it for funding an IRA. • Make long-term care arrangements — If you needed long-term care, such as an extended nursing home stay, and you had ® 269-945-2401 150 W. Court St. Hastings, MI 49058 Investment opportunities include non deposit investments which are: Not FDIC Insured Not Bank Guaranteed May Lose Value TWO BROTHERS AND A TENT For All Your Tent Rental Needs Tables and chairs available. Call: Dan McKinney 269-838-7057 or Tom McKinney 269-838-3842 Licensed / Insured / Local Call Scott 517-290-5556 • 877-448-1548 FREE Consultation & Estimates! ALSO EGRESS WINDOWS / MOLD REMEDIATION 77567486 Hastings City Bank Trust and Investment Group Administrative Assistant The Barry County Chamber of Commerce seeks a qualified individual for a full-time Administrative Assistant. The Administrative Assistant supports all office functions of the Chamber and the Economic Development Alliance and requires advanced administrative skills including a solid knowledge of Quickbooks and advanced skills in Microsoft Office software applications. This position is responsible for a broad range of office management and administrative functions including accounts receivable/payable, financial reporting, written and verbal communications, event coordination and marketing, website and social media updates and a high degree of self-sufficiency and customer responsiveness. Successful candidates will have at least five years of applicable administrative or office management experience and must work well independently. Excellent communication skills required. Position is full-time with hours from 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday - Friday with flexibility in staffing after hours events as needed. Pay commensurate with experience and qualifications. Please submit a cover letter and resume by 5 p.m. on Thursday, May 17: Barry County Chamber of Commerce 221 W. State Street , Hastings, MI 49058 or via email to: 77567699 valerie@mibarry.com 77566915 No phone calls or walk-in inquiries please. ® NOW OPEN Woody’s General Store The 110 W. State Street DOWNTOWN HASTINGS Featuring... Moo-ville Milk & Cheeses 77564841 — OPEN 24 HOURS — Cappuc¢cino 99 Any Size inadequate financial preparations, the burden could fall on your children. Now is the time to consult with your financial advisor to begin preparing for possible long-term care costs. When Your Children Reach Middle Age • Communicate your financial situation and estate plans — Don’t leave adult children in the dark as to your financial information. Share everything you can about how much you own, where you keep your assets and how you plan to eventually distribute them. By clearly communicating your situation and wishes now, you can avoid major problems later. • Create a durable power of attorney — By creating a durable power of attorney, you can appoint another person, such as an adult child, to conduct your business and financial affairs if you become physically or mentally incapacitated. Such a move can help reduce stress your children may be feeling, while allowing them to make moves that can help preserve your finances. Mother’s Day commemorates the special bond that mothers have with their children. By following the above suggestions, you can help strengthen that bond throughout your lifetime. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 32.26 -.16 AT&T 33.04 -.02 BP PLC 40.42 -2.28 CMS Energy Corp 22.62 -.62 Coca-Cola Co 77.14 +.21 Eaton 45.51 -2.44 Family Dollar Stores 67.28 -.34 Fifth Third Bancorp 14.21 -.19 Flowserve CP 111.07 -2.42 Ford Motor Co. 10.61 -.62 General Mills 38.82 -.11 General Motors 22.23 -1.08 Intel Corp. 27.37 -1.58 Kellogg Co. 50.75 +.75 McDonald’s Corp 93.55 -3.65 Pfizer Inc. 22.42 -.36 Ralcorp 71.09 -1.86 Sears Holding 54.88 -7.17 Spartan Motors 4.68 -.24 Spartan Stores 17.67 -.12 Stryker 54.15 -.72 TCF Financial 12.02 +.30 Walmart Stores 59.05 -.02 Gold $1,605.15 -$56.48 Silver $29.46 -$1.49 Dow Jones Average 12,932 -347 Volume on NYSE 853M +123M Dogs for disabled are result of science and commitment Certified Financial Planning Marriage Randy Teegardin, CFP. Licenses EDWARD JONES Come Down and See Us 77567681 by Dr. E. Kirsten Peters We humans go to some trouble so that we can choose which among our domestic animals gets to breed the next generation, thereby, over time, shaping various lines of animals ranging from types of sheep to varieties of chickens. Perhaps nowhere is the impact of selective breeding more clear to many of us than with the domestic dog. From ancient breeds such as the greyhound and the Dalmatian to more recently derived types like the cocker spaniel, the diversity of dog breeds is tribute to the power that selecting animals gives us to shape descendants of mated pairs. If you didn’t know it, you might not think that a great Dane and a miniature dog that can fit in a purse belong to the same species, but of course they do — it’s just that breeding has shaped them over time to radically different sizes. The science of breeding dogs is serious business, and nowhere more so than with the dogs destined to become service animals. I had a chance recently to learn something of that world from a colleague named Linda Hardesty who, along with her husband, Dan, volunteers to raise puppies for Canine Companions for Independence. What Linda and others like her put into the program is impressive, and the results of the work they do are as heartwarming as a wet puppy kiss on the nose. CCI does the original work of breeding dogs — Labrador retrievers, golden retrievers and Lab-golden mixes — that form the basic dog-stock for the program. Some behaviors (such as being calm in busy places) are traits that CCI and similar institutions can breed for. One particular male dog named Bobby in the CCI program has sired literally hundreds of puppies because he — and his descendants — have proven so amenable to the training that all types of service dogs undergo. Linda is a volunteer puppy-raiser in the CCI program. She takes up where the science of breeding ends and the art of training begins. By working every day with a young pup, including taking the dog to work and on errands, Linda socializes and trains the young animal. “My mother went deaf as an adult,” Linda said. “When I saw what a hearing dog did for her, really transforming her life, I started to think about the possibility of contributing to a program like CCI.” Linda and her husband are now raising Sierra, their 10th puppy in the CCI program. “She goes where I go, including in the cabin of an airplane or out in public,” Linda said. Sierra came to the Hardesty household when she was about 8 weeks old. She’ll stay until she’s 18 months. By the time she’s ready to leave, she will know 30 commands. She’ll also have been trained to not eat food on the floor and to eliminate on command. “We train by positive reinforcement only,” Linda told me. Sierra is a sleek, all-black dog who is a cross of a golden retriever and a Labrador. “If a puppy doesn’t make it to being placed with a disabled person, the issue is usually the genetics, not in the environment in which the puppy is raised. Even with very careful breeding like CCI does, the majority of the puppies won’t be successfully placed with a disabled person,” she said. Dogs that turn out not to be suited for CCI work are sometimes trained for search and rescue, drug detection or therapy dog work. Other such dogs are simply placed in good homes — where they become remarkably well-behaved pets. Sierra wears a vest when she is in training mode for being “on the job.” When the vest comes off, she behaves like the normal, high-energy Lab-cross that she is. “I can’t predict if Sierra will become successfully placed with a disabled person. But several of our previous puppies have gone on to help people with a variety of disabilities, and at no cost to them, and that’s what keeps us committed to the work,” Linda said. Here’s to all those who help create the dogs that go to the disabled. Theirs is a true calling, blending the art of training with the science of breeding, all for the best of reasons. Dr. E. Kirsten Peters, a native of the rural Northwest, was trained as a geologist at Princeton and Harvard universities. Follow her online at rockdoc.wsu.edu and on Twitter @RockDocWSU. This column is a service of the College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences at Washington State University. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 10, 2012 — Page 9 Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz revisited Grassland farm on Irving’s rolling hills wins contest CELL PHONE BOOSTER 07598500 A grassland farm perched amid the rolling hills of Irving Township was the 10th to be pictured in the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz being sponsored by the Banner and 35 Barry County merchants. Located in the Pleasant Hill vicinity about three miles east of Middleville on the Middleville-Freeport Road, the farm is one developed by Mr. and Mrs. Vere Carter. The Carters believe in grassland farming, particularly for their holdings totaling 250 acres, so that “future Carters will still have beautiful, rolling hills on the North Irving landscape.” Vere Carter is a farmer by birth. His parents 06778835 Ninth Lucky Farmers termed ‘typical Americans’ The ninth farm to be pictured in the Lucky Farmers Photo Quiz, sponsored by the Banner and 35 Barry County merchants, is operated by Mr. and Mrs. Wayne T. Offley, who might be termed typical American farmers – happy, industrious vigorous and patriotic people. Their farm, located off the Wellman Road about nine miles east and north of here, produces crops that help to feed the nation in the emergency as well as providing them with a good income. They have a son on the fighting line in Korea, a second son 11 years old and two married daughters. They have a large, comfortable yellow brick home erected by Wayne’s father which has been modernized. They have the modern agricultural tools – cornpicker, combine, tractor, milking machine and other equipment. They have the interest of their community – and country – at heart. Wayne was born in Barry County Sept. 27, 1900, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Offley, who now reside at 427 E. Blair St. Wayne has rented his parents’ farm for the past 25 years when his mother and dad came to live in Hastings. The family originally lived in and around Castleton Center, moving to the Offley farm in 1909. Both Wayne and his wife, the former Ella Wood, were graduated from Hastings High School in 1918. They remember walking from their farms to Coats Grove and taking the old CK&S railroad into Hastings, arriving about 9:15 a.m. They would return on the 4:27. The train fare for the trip was 2 1/2 cents, but “trip tickets” allowing 500 miles for $2 could be purchased, bringing the price down to two cents a mile. The conductor would tear off “12 miles” from the ticket each day. After graduating from high school, Wayne worked with his father. Then after he was married, he worked at the Woodland elevator for nine months and then took a job at the Oldsmobile plant in Lansing. In the spring of 1925, Wayne and Ella returned to the farm which originally belonged to Wayne’s grandfather, Edwin Mead. Mr. Mead had built all the buildings, Wayne recalls, but the house. Wayne’s father had the home erected. Charles purchased the farm the year Wayne moved into the place. The deed for the farm calls for 108 acres, and the Offleys have an additional 40 near Castleton Center. The 40 acres were purchased by Wayne’s grandfather for a yoke of oxen and a quantity of wheat. The Offleys have a general farm. They fed out 37 hogs last fall, and two of their sows came in last week. They have a flock of 30 sheep, are milking 10 cows, mostly Jerseys, and raise chickens. They replaced their horses two years ago with a big tractor. The Offleys have been members of the Barry County Farm Bureau a quarter of a century and when their 11-year-old son, Ronald, joined the Boys Scouts, Wayne joined the Woodland Lions Club which sponsored the troop. Wayne Jr., known as Ted, is with the Oklahoma National Guard, the old 45th division, and has been on the fighting front in Korea. Ted went into service a year ago last January. Their daughters are Mrs. Carl (Jean) VanHusen, and Mrs. Sam (Elaine) Palmatier, both of Lansing. The Offleys have five granddaughters. ***** Hastings Banner, March 27, 1952 GRASSLAND FARMERS — Mr. and Mrs. Vere Carter, whose farm was the 10th to be pictured in the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz being sponsored by the Banner and 35 Barry County merchants, are pictured with their son and daughter, Theron and Marilyn, displaying two of their lambs from the flock which grazes on the rolling grasscovered hills in Irving. The Carters practice grassland farming to preserve their soil. — Photo by Barth. are the Stephen Carters – whose home can be Both Vere and Bernice have outside interseen from Vere’s house. The Stephen Carters ests. on March 12 celebrated their golden wedding She is a member of the Sunshine Club, a jubilee. hospital guild and the Irving Grange home Both Mr. and Mrs. Vere Carter are former school teachers. Vere started teaching at the Parmelee school where he taught for three years. He also taught at Freeport for eight years and the remainder of his 15 years as a pedagogue was spent at the Logan School. While teaching, Vere earned a bachelor of arts degree at Western Michigan College in Kalamazoo. In 1929, Vere obtained his first 40 acres, and in 1936 he convinced Bernice L. Pickett, a Battle Creek school teacher with nine years’ tenure, to become a farmer’s wife. They obtained 40 more acres in 1938, another 80 acres in 1943 and an additional 90 acres in 1946 for a total of 250 acres. They are mainly interested in sheep raising. The Carter farm received a face-lifting in 1951, when a few pond holes were filled and stone piles — a nuisance with modern machinery — were buried. Their house was small, so a remodeling job was undertaken and completed last year by Jack Simpson of Alto, and the Andrus Bros. of Freeport. The Carters have erected all of the buildings on the farm, aside from the recently improved house. The Carters have a team of horses — not LUCKY FARMERS — Wayne T. Offley (left), his father, Charles, and Wayne’s son, just for sentimental reasons — and a tractor. Ronald, are pictured in one of the two chicken houses on the Offley farm, located off Both horses and tractor have their place on the Wellman Road nine miles northeast of here, which was the ninth to be pictured in the Carter farm. Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz. Like many other Barry farmers, the Offleys do not intend to Mrs. Carter is the daughter of the George cut their flocks of chickens because of low egg prices, but will maintain their egg proPicketts, of Caledonia. duction as well as their other “crops” in the coming months. — Photo by Barth. Country Chapel UMC will be serving a... Mother and Child Banquet Friday, May 11th • 7:00 p.m. Cost $7 per person. Children under 5 yrs. eat free. Country Chapel UMC 9275 South M37, Dowling, MI 77567528 This is the sixth part of a series reprinting the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz promotion that ran in the Banner 60 years ago. An unidentified aerial photo of an area farm was pictured in the Banner each week, from Jan. 24 to July 17, 1952, and the owners of the mystery farms were featured in the paper the following week. ***** Hastings Banner, March 20, 1952 economics department and an active grange member. Vere has been a member of the Irving Grange since 1923 and a member of the Knights of Pythias since 1928. Both are members of the state and national grange and have been since 1943. The Carters have two children, Marilyn, 8, a second grade student at Middleville’s Thornapple Kellogg school, who has a great interest in dolls, and Theron, 5, in the kindergarten at TK, who loves everything about the farm —and even throws down hay. ~~~*~~~ The following two items were in the “Memories of the Past” column written by the late Susan Hinckley in the May 4, 1982 Maple Valley News. The column that week was a review of the first week of May in the history of Nashville. We thought Banner readers might find these two items of interest (the full article was reprinted in Saturday’s Maple Valley News.) 1891 — It has been years since continued warm weather came so early in the spring. This has been a remarkable spring and a pleasure to all. Grass or wheat never looked so well at this time of the year as now, and most of the gardens have been planted. 1906 — The Hastings Banner is 50 years old this week and still is as fully vigorous as its 33-year-old neighbor, The Nashville News, which hereby extends felicitations. To call in your reservations or to find out more information call 269-721-8077 or log on to www.countrychapelumc.org Write Us A Letter: 77567544 Public Notice Information: 77567541 The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. 77567565 Request for Bids New 6 Unit Box Hangars See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. 77567537 J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits On 4/5/12, an application seeking consent to the assignment of license of FM translator station W225BA was tendered for filing with the Federal Communications Commission. The station is licensed to World Radio Link, Inc. to serve the area of Hastings, MI. The proposed assignee is Cano’s Broadcasting, LLC. W225BA operates on channel 225 with 0.01 kilowatts of power from a transmitter located at 42-39-03N, 85-17-11W. W225BA will rebroadcast station WVGR(FM), 281, Grand Rapids, MI. The Hastings City Barry County Airport is accepting sealed bids for new construction of a 6 unit box hangar at the airport. Conditions and Specifications will be available at the Hastings Airport by appointment. Please call 269838-5874 or 269-804-9588 and talk to Mark. Sealed bids will be accepted at The Managers office at the Hastings City Barry County Airport, located at 2505 Murphy Dr., Hastings, MI, until 5/25/2012 at 3:00 p.m. The Airport Commission reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in any bid, and to award the bid in a manner it believes to be in its own best interest, price and other factors considered. Contractors will be required to provide proof of insurance in the amounts included in the bid package. All bids shall be clearly marked on the outside of the submittal package “Bid: 6 Unit Box Hangar” Mark Noteboom, Airport Manager 77567683 �Page 10 — Thursday, May 10, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Trust In the Matter of NORMAN J. LENZ AND JUDITH A. LENZ TRUST u/t/a dated July 11, 1995 Date of Birth: January 13, 1937 – Norman J. Lenz TO ALL CREDITORS: * NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Norman J. Lenz, surviving Trustee, who lived at 2665 River Road, Hastings, Michigan died April 9, 2012 leaving the above Trust entitled "Norman J. Lenz and Judith A. Lenz Trust" in full force and effect. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the decedent or against the Trust will be forever barred unless presented to Jill A. Cotant within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. May 7, 2012 Stephanie S. Fekkes P43549 150 W. Court Street 2336 Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 945-1921 Jill A. Cotant 2336 Nettlecreek Drive Fort Wayne, IN 46818 77567669 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Matthew W Spencer and Anne K Spencer, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Polaris Home Funding Corp., its successors or assigns, Mortgagee, dated March 1, 2008 and recorded March 13, 2008 in Instrument Number 20080313-002327, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Thousand Four Hundred Sixty and 7/100 Dollars ($200,460.07) including interest at 5.75% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on MAY 17, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the Township of Rutland, County of Barry, State of Michigan: Beginning at a point on the East-West 1/4 line of Section 17, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, distant West 1322.82 feet from the East 1/4 post of said Section 17; thence South 01 degrees 16 minutes 10 seconds East 536.51 feet along the East line of the West 1/2 of the Southeast 1/4 of said Section 17; thence West, 164.27 feet parallel with said 1/4 line; thence North 66 degrees 33 minutes 37 seconds West, 33.82 feet; thence North 36 degrees 04 minutes 29 seconds East, 60.64 feet; thence North 07 degrees 57 minutes 58 seconds West, 103.67 feet; thence North 35 degrees 58 minutes 26 seconds West 138.54 feet; thence North 42 degrees 35 minutes 35 seconds East 33.66 feet; thence North 14 degrees 51 minutes 00 seconds East 242.44 feet thence East, 158.52 feet along said East-West 1/4 line to the place of beginning. Together with and subject to an easement for private roadway and public utility purposes to be used jointly with others over a strip of land 66 feet wide, 33 feet each side of the centerline described as: Beginning at a point on the East and West 1/4 line of Section 17, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, distant West 1906.85 feet from the East 1/4 post of said Section 17; thence South 00 degrees 20 minutes 48 seconds West, 112.79 feet; thence South 84 degrees 20 minutes 58 seconds East, 126.10 feet; thence South 58 degrees 49 minutes 45 seconds East, 259.10 feet; thence South 35 degrees 58 minutes 26 seconds East, 138.54 feet; thence South 07 degrees 57 minutes 28 seconds East,103.67 feet; thence South 36 degrees 04 minutes 29 seconds West, 60.64 feet to the end of said described easement. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: April 19, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 682.2477 77567211 (04-19)(05-10) NOTICE TO BORROWER PURSUANT TO MCL 600.3205a(4) THIS FIRM MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. NOTICE is hereby provided to the Borrower(s) regarding the property located at 3716 Curtis Road, Nashville, MI 49073. State law requires that you receive the following notice: You have the right to request a meeting with the mortgage holder or mortgage servicer. Pursuant to MCL 600.3205a(1)(c), Ocwen Loan Servicing LLC has designated the Loan Modification Department of Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 at (248) 883-0157 as its agent to serve as the contact under MCL sections 600.3205a-3205c and has the authority to make agreements for a loan modification pursuant to MCL sections 600.3205b and 600.3205c. You may contact a housing counselor by visiting the Michigan State Housing Development Authority's website at http://www.michigan.gov/mshda or by calling 1-800A-SHELTER, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, year-round. If you request a meeting with the designated agent, foreclosure proceedings will not start until 90 days after the notice required by MCL 600.3205a was mailed to your last known address, subject to the provisions of MCL 600.3205b. If an agreement to modify the mortgage is reached and you abide by the terms of the agreement, the mortgage will not be foreclosed. You have the right to contact an attorney. If you do not have an attorney, the telephone number for the Michigan State Bar Lawyer Referral Service is (800) 968-0738. Notice given by: Randall S. Miller Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 248-883-0157 (Loan Modification Dept.) loanmods@rsmalaw.com Case No. 12OMI00520-1 Dated: May 10, 2012 (05-10) 77567667 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE — THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT; ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY SERVICE PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW. Notice under MCL 600.3278: Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale under MCL 600.3201 et. seq., the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. ATTENTION POTENTIAL PURCHASERS AT FORECLOSURE SALE: In the case of resolution prior to or simultaneously with the aforementioned foreclosure sale, U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate 2001-4, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents may rescind this sale at any time prior to the end of the redemption period. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited to the return of your bid amount tendered at the sale, plus interest. Default having occurred in the conditions of a Mortgage made by Jose H. Dominguez, Jr. and Doris A. Dominguez, husband and wife, ("Debtors") to Green Tree Servicing LLC (f/k/a Conseco Finance Servicing Corp.), dated August 3, 2001, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry in the State of Michigan on August 7, 2001, in Document Number 1064399, et. seq., and being re-recorded on September 26, 2001 in Document Number 1067187, et. seq., said Mortgage being last assigned to U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate 2001-4 ("Green Tree"), by Mortgage Assignment dated February 6, 2012, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry in the State of Michigan on February 13, 2012, in Document Number 201202130001530, et. seq., on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due as of the date of this Notice the sum of $132,202.45, which amount may or may not be the entire indebtedness owed by Debtors to Green Tree together with interest at 7.99 percent per annum. NOW THEREFORE, Notice is hereby given that the power of sale contained in said Mortgage has become operative and that pursuant to that power of sale and MCL 600.3201 et. seq., on June 14, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., on the East steps of the Circuit Court Building in Hastings, Michigan, that being the place for holding the Circuit Court and/or for conducting such foreclosure sales for the County of Barry, there will be offered at public sale, the premises, or some part thereof, described in said Mortgage as follows, to-wit: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF IRVING, COUNTY OF BARRY, STATE OF MICHIGAN, IS DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: PART OF THE WEST 1/2 OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 23, TOWN 4 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, DESCRIBED AS: BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE NORTH AND SOUTH 1/4 LINE OF SECTION 23, DISTANT SOUTH 01 DEGREES 30' 32" WEST, 1724.04 FEET FROM THE NORTH 1/4 CORNER OF SECTION 23 AND PROCEEDING THENCE SOUTH 88 DEGREES 35' 54" EAST, 1316.12 FEET PARALLEL WITH THE EAST AND WEST 1/4 LINE OF SECTION 23; THENCE SOUTH 01 DEGREES 26' 11" WEST, 364.00 FEET ALONG THE EAST 1/8 LINE; THENCE NORTH 88 DEGREES 35' 54" WEST, 1316.58 FEET; THENCE NORTH 01 DEGREES 30' 32" EAST, 364.00 FEET ALONG THE NORTH AND SOUTH 1/4 LINE TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. which also includes any interest Green Tree may have in the 2000 Century Mobile Home, Serial Number MYD153819ABF. The redemption period shall be six (6) months unless the property is established to be abandoned pursuant to MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of sale or fifteen (15) days from the date the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(b) was posted and mailed, or unless under MCL 600.3240(17), prior to the foreclosure sale the borrower follows the procedure set forth in that section to establish the presumption that the property is used for Agricultural purposes, in which case the redemption period shall be one (1) year from the date of the sale. Dated: May 8, 2012 U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate PassThrough Certificate 2001-4, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents By: DONALD A. BRANDT (P30183) BRANDT, FISHER, ALWARD & PEZZETTI, P.C. Attorneys for Green Tree 1241 E. Eighth Street, P.O. Box 5817 Traverse City, Michigan 49696-5817 (231) 941-9660 File No.: 6140.1075 Ad #28028 05/10, 05/17, 05/24, 05/31/2012 77567692 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Mark A Edgar and Brenda K Edger, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated September 18, 2008, and recorded on October 7, 2008 in instrument 20081007-0009809, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Wells Fargo Bank, NA as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Forty-Three Thousand Four Hundred Fifty-One and 64/100 Dollars ($143,451.64). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 31, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 1203, Original Plan of the Village (Now City) of Hastings, according to the plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 3, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #290575F02 77567467 (05-03)(05-24) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Joseph Steffler and Brooke Steffler, husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated September 8, 2006 and recorded October 26, 2006 in Instrument Number 1171927, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by PNC Bank, N.A. by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Three Thousand Four Hundred Two and 40/100 Dollars ($133,402.40) including interest at 6.75% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on MAY 17, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Maple Grove, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 27, Town 2 North, Range 7 West, described as: Commencing at the North 1/4 corner of said Section; thence South 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East 273.14 feet along the North line of said Northeast 1/4 to the place of beginning; thence South 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East 548.0 feet along said North line; thence South 00 degrees 29 minutes 53 seconds East 400.00 feet along the East line of the West 50 acres of said Northeast 1/4; thence North 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West 548.0 feet; thence North 00 degrees 29 minutes 53 seconds West 400.0 feet to the place of beginning. Also described for tax purposes as: Commencing North 1/4 post Section 27, thence East 273.41 feet to point of beginning; thence East 548 feet, thence South 0 degrees 29 minutes 53 seconds East 400 feet, thence West 526 feet, thence North 29 degrees 53 minutes West 400 feet to point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: April 19, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 2485022633 File No. 401.0707 77567187 (04-19)(05-10) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Stacy L. Johnson and Dean R. Johnson wife and husband, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated December 28, 2007, and recorded on January 2, 2008 in instrument 20080102-0000107, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Flagstar Bank, FSB as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixteen Thousand Two Hundred Seventy-Four and 07/100 Dollars ($116,274.07). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 31, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The West 57 feet of Lots 4 and 5, and the West 56 feet of Lot 3, all in Block 3, of A.W. Phillips Addition to the Village of Nashville, according to the recorded Plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 3, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #297864F02 77567412 (05-03)(05-24) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by James Gibson and Laura Gibson, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Metro Finance its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated October 17, 2007, and recorded on November 13, 2007 in instrument 200711130004091, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fifty-Five Thousand Three Hundred Forty-Seven and 79/100 Dollars ($155,347.79). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 17, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel 2: Commencing at the Southeast corner of Section 28, Town 4 North, Range 9 West; thence North 00 degrees 14 minutes 27 seconds West, 1120.13 feet along the East line of said Section 28; thence South 89 degrees 35 minutes 08 Seconds West, 253 feet to the point of beginning; thence North 00 degrees 14 minutes 27 seconds West 370.46 feet; thence South 89 degrees 39 minutes 30 seconds West 178.85 feet; thence South 00 degrees 14 minutes 27 seconds East 184.00 feet; thence South 89 degrees 35 minutes 08 Seconds West 41.15 feet; thence South 00 degrees 14 minutes 27 seconds East 186.69 feet; thence North 89 degrees 35 minutes 08 seconds East 220.00 feet to the point of beginning. Together with and subject to an easement for ingress, egress and public utilities described as follows: Beginning at a point on the East line of Section 28, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, distant North 00 degrees 14 minutes 27 seconds West, 1120.13 feet from the Southeast corner of said Section 28; thence South 89 degrees 35 minutes 08 seconds West 781.68 feet; thence Northwesterly, Easterly and Southeasterly 219.33 feet along the arc of a curve to the right, the radius of which is 50.00 feet and the chord of which bears North 35 degrees 15 minutes 15 seconds East 81.24 feet; thence North 89 degrees 35 minutes 08 Seconds East 734.51 feet; thence South 00 degrees 14 minutes 27 seconds East 66.00 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #366171F01 77567160 (04-19)(05-10) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Dennis Ayers, a married man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 9, 2004, and recorded on July 20, 2004 in instrument 1131097, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Wells Fargo Bank, NA as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fifty-Three Thousand Three Hundred Seventy-Six and 90/100 Dollars ($153,376.90). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 24, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That part of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 17, Town 3 North, Range 10 West, Yankee Springs Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as : Commencing at the West 1/4 corner of said Section; thence North 89 degrees 40 minutes 09 seconds East 300.0 feet along the South line of said Northwest 1/4 to the place of beginning; thence North 89 degrees 40 minutes 09 seconds East 200.0 feet along said South line; thence North 00 degrees 44 minutes West 627.11 feet parallel with the West line of said Northwest 1/4; thence South 88 degrees 02 minutes 54 seconds West 200.04 feet; thencee South 00 degrees 44 minutes East 621.45 feet to the place of beginning The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #399501F01 77567268 (04-26)(05-17) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by MICHAEL D. BRZYCKI a/k/a MICHAEL BRZYCKI and JACKI BRZYCKI, husband and wife (collectively, "Mortgagor"), to GREENSTONE FARM CREDIT SERVICES, FLCA, a federally chartered corporation, having an office at 3515 West Road, East Lansing, Michigan 48823 (the "Mortgagee"), dated October 9, 2006, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on October 16, 2006, as Instrument No. 1171473 (the "Mortgage"). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgagee is the owner of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage. Mortgage Electronic Registration System (MERS) is not the sole foreclosing party. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Sixty-Four Thousand One Hundred Fifty-Five and 20/100 Dollars ($64,155.20). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public venue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 31st day of May, 2012, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the Village of Nashville, Township of Castleton, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: The South 40 feet of Lot 16, except the East 44 feet thereof, Plat of the Village of Nashville, Village of Nashville, Castleton Township, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Barry County Records. Together with all fixtures, tenements, hereditaments, and appurtenances belonging or in any way appertaining to the premises. Commonly known as: 102 N. Main Street, Nashville, Michigan 49073 P.P. #08-52-000-016-00 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys the premises at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee for damaging the premises during the redemption period. Dated: May 3, 2012 GREENSTONE FARM CREDIT SERVICES, FLCA Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2487 (616) 752-2000 8276572-1 77567472 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 10, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES Case No. 11-466-CH Notice of Judicial Foreclosure Sale on a Default Judgment and Judgment of Foreclosure Against Defendants Teresa J. Lindsey, f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker and Shana Ciampa NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to the terms of a Default Judgment and Judgment of Foreclosure of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan signed and filed on January 17, 2012, in the case of Eaton Federal Savings Bank, Plaintiff v Teresa J. Lindsey, f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker and Shana Ciampa, Defendants, Case No. 11-466-CH, wherein, among other things, the Court allowed the foreclosure of a mortgage granted by Teresa J. Lindsey f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker (Mortgagor) to Eaton Federal Savings Bank on September 27, 2007 and recorded October 4, 2007 at Instrument No. 200710040002745, pages 1 through 10, Barry County Records, against the Mortgagor. Pursuant to the Default Judgment and Judgment for Foreclosure, the mortgaged premises shall be sold at a public auction by or under the direction of Clerk or Sheriff for the County of Barry to the highest bidder at the main entrance to the Barry County Courthouse, 220 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 on Thursday, May 17, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., local time. The following described “Mortgaged Premises”: Parcel 1: Lot 13 of Standley’s First Addition to Fine Lake Park, Johnstown Township, Barry County, Michigan, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, on Page 31, Also, beginning at the Southeast corner of Lot 13 of Standley’s First Addition to Fine Lake Park, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, on Page 31; thence North 26 degrees East along the Easterly line of Lots 13 and 14 of said Plat, 100.00 feet, thence South 82 degrees 54 minutes East 50.00 feet; thence South 26 degrees West, 100.00 feet; thence North 82 degrees 54 minutes West 50.00 feet to the point of beginning. Parcel 2: Beginning at the Southwest corner of Lot 8 of Fine Lake Park, Johnstown Township, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof; thence Northeasterly along the East Shore of Fine Lake to a point 10 feet from said place of beginning; thence Easterly to a point on the Easterly line of said Lot which is 3 feet North of the Southeast corner of said Lot; thence Southerly along the East line of said Lot to the Southeast corner thereof; thence Westerly along the South line of said Lot to the place of beginning. The Mortgaged Premises, whose address is 823 East Shore Drive, Battle Creek, Michigan, 49017, also include all right, title and interests held by Teresa J. Lindsey f/k/a Teresa J. Whitaker as of September 27, 2007, in the Mortgaged Premises. The Premises may be redeemed during the six (6) months following the date of sale. BODMAN PLC By: Sandra L. Jasinski (P37430) Attorneys for Eaton Federal Savings Bank 229 Court Street, P.O. Box 405 Cheboygan, Michigan 49721 (231) 627-8000 Date: March 29, 2012 Dates of publication: March 29, April 5, 12, 19, 26, 77566696 May 3, and 10, 2012. Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Stephen M. Beyer, Married Man, and Catherine Beyer, His Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 27, 2009, and recorded on September 2, 2009 in instrument 200909020008888, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ninety-One Thousand Nine Hundred Seventeen and 87/100 Dollars ($191,917.87). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 31, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel A: Beginning at a point on the North-South 1/4 line Section 26, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, Thornapple Township, Barry County, Michigan, distant South 00 degrees 27 minutes 36 seconds West, 845.29 feet from the North 1/4 corner of said Section; thence North 80 degrees 42 minutes 21 seconds East, 801.52 feet to the centerline of Irving Road; thence South 41 degrees 29 minutes 30 seconds East, 449.81 feet along said centerline; thence South 43 degrees 36 minutes 25 seconds East, 50.12 feet along said centerline; thence South 48 degrees 30 minutes 30 seconds West 1513.35 feet to the North-South 1/4 line of said Section; thence North 00 degrees 27 minutes 36 seconds East, 1246.43 feet along said 1/4 line to the Point of Beginning. Subject to an easement for public highway purposes over the Northeasterly 33.00 feet thereof for Irving Road, and any other easements of restrictions of record. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 3, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #399782F01 77567400 (05-03)(05-24) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Jill L. Plowman, an unmarried woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Amerifirst Financial Corporation its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated October 12, 2010, and recorded on October 26, 2010 in instrument 201010260009979, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Eight Thousand Two Hundred and 13/100 Dollars ($138,200.13). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 17, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Assyria, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The South 1/2 of the West 1/2 of the Southwest fractional 1/4 of the Southwest fractional 1/4 of Section 18, Town 1 North, Range 7 West except all that certain piece of parcel of land commencing at the Southwest corner of Section 18, Town 1 North, Range 7 West; thence North 220.83 feet; thence East 579.50 feet; thence South 224.17 feet; thence West 578.50 feet to the Place of Beginning. Also the North 1/2 of the West 1/2 of the Southwest fractional 1/4 of the Southwest fractional 1/4 of Section 18, Town 1 North, Range 7 West. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #392735F01 77567182 (04-19)(05-10) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Carol L Anglemyer, and Edward F. Akin, as joint tenants with Full rights of Survivorship, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated June 18, 2003, and recorded on June 26, 2003 in instrument 1107200, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Four Thousand Seven Hundred Seventy-Five and 96/100 Dollars ($74,775.96). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 31, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Delton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land in the Northwest 1/4 of Section 20, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, described as: Beginning at the intersection of the North line of Guernsey Lake Road and the West line of Pike Road as Platted in the Plat of Diana Shores, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats on Page 24; Thence South 01 degrees 06 minutes East 33.00 feet to the centerline of Guernsey Lake Road, said Centerline Also Being the East and West 1/4 Line of said Section 20; thence North 89 Degrees 45 minutes West along said East and West 1/4 Line a distance of 261.50 feet; Thence North 01 Degrees 06 minutes West 407.00 feet; Thence South 89 Degrees 45 minutes East 261.50 feet to the West line of said Pike Road; Thence South 01 Degrees 06 minutes East along said West line 374.00 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 3, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #400120F01 77567406 (05-03)(05-24) SYNOPSIS Barry Township Board Regular Meeting Held May 1, 2012 Regular meeting opened @ 7:02 p.m. ROLL CALL: 5 board members and 17 guests. Motion approved minutes and Treasurers reports for April 2012. Motion approved agenda with 2 additions. Received Department reports. Motion approved Barry Co. Roadwork Resolution 12-06. Motion approved purchase of zero-turn mower for $4,999.00. Motion approved bills and check register for May 2012. Adjourned @ 8:36 p.m. Respectfully, Debra J. Knight Barry Township Clerk Attested to by: Wesley Kahler Barry Township Supervisor 77567671 GRAND & GRAND PLLC 31731 Northwestern Hwy, #115 Farmington Hills MI 48334 PURSUANT TO 15 USC §1692 YOU ARE HEREBY INFORMED THAT THIS IS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION THAT YOU PROVIDE MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the condition of a mortgage made by James W. Holes, an unmarried man to MERS, MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC by a mortgage dated May 23, 2008 and recorded on June 11, 2008 in instrument number 200806110006132, Barry County Records Michigan and assigned to BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO BAC HOME LOANS SERVICING, LP FKA COUNTYWIDE HOME LOANS SERVICING, LP by an assignment of mortgage dated November 15, 2011and recorded on November 22, 2011 in instrument number 201111220010962 Barry County Records Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-One Thousand Eight Hundred Ninety-Seven and 87/100 Dollars ($161,897.87) including interest at 6% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings; Michigan at 1:00 pm on June 14, 2012. Said premises are situated in the Township of Yankee, County of Barry State of Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner of Section 22, Town 3 North, Range 10 West, thence South 80 rods, thence East 8 rods, thence North 80 rods, thence west 8 rods to the place of beginning, except commencing at the Northwest corner of Section 22, Town 3 North, Range 10 West, thence East 8 rods, for the place of beginning, thence South 160 feet, thence West 60 feet, thence North 160 feet, thence East 60 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: May 8, 2012 Michael M. Grand, Esq. GRAND & GRAND PLLC 31731 Northwestern Hwy., #115 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 (248) 538-3737 75033 (05-10)(05-31) 77567687 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Mitchell L. Phelps, a married man and Theresa Phelps, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Lake Michigan Credit Union, Mortgagee, dated July 24, 2007, and recorded on July 31, 2007 in instrument 200707310000343, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Four Thousand One Hundred Seventeen and 74/100 Dollars ($94,117.74). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 24, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A Parcel of land on the Northeast 1/4 of Section 14, Town 4 North, Range 8 West, commencing at the Northeast corner of the Northwest 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4; Section 14; thence South 666 feet for the place of beginning, thence West 175 feet; thence South 200 feet; thence East 175 feet; thence North 200 feet, to the place of beginning. And Commencing at the North 1/4 corner of Section 14, Town 4 North, Range 8 West, Carlton Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East, 1056.00 feet along the North line of said Section;thence South 666 feet for the place of beginning thence South 00 degrees 46 minutes 27 seconds East, 89.00 feet; thence South 00 degrees 46 minutes 27 seconds West, 200.00 feet; thence South 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West, 89 feet; thence North 00 degrees 46 minutes 27 seconds East, 200 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #398935F01 77567262 (04-26)(05-17) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Darla L Slumkoski, a single woman individual, original mortgagor(s), to Arbor Mortgage, Mortgagee, dated May 31, 2007, and recorded on June 6, 2007 in instrument 1181356, and assigned by mesne assignments to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Nine Thousand Nine Hundred Twenty-Seven and 42/100 Dollars ($139,927.42). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 7, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at a point 4 rods East of the Southeast corner of lot 45 of the Village of Delton, for place of beginning; thence East 8 rods; thence North 4 rods; thence West 8 rods; thence South 4 rods to place of beginning, all being in the Northwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of section 5, Town 1 North, Range 9 West The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 10, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #276109F02 (05-10)(05-31) 77567647 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by OWEN J. SABIN and CARLEEN R. SABIN, husband and wife (collectively “Mortgagor”), to FIFTH THIRD BANK an Ohio banking corporation having its principal office at 111 Lyon Street, NW, Suite 900, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503, (the “Mortgagee”), dated December 17, 2003 and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on January 2, 2004, in Instrument No. 1120158 as modified in Instrument No. 1162170 (collectively the “Mortgage”). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Two Hundred Thirty-Seven Two Hundred Thirty-Four and 00/100 Dollars ($237,234.00). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the Barry County Courthouse located in the City of Hastings, Michigan on Thursday, June 7, 2012, at 1:00 o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the Township of Yankee Springs, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: Begin 100.0 feet North of the South 1/4 post of Section 8, Town 3 North, Range 10 West, Yankee Springs Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence South 89 degrees 40 minutes West 738.15 feet to the center of creek; thence North 12 degrees 12 minutes West 336.0 feet along center of creek to a 4" concrete monument which is set in the bank about 20 feet East of the center of creek (center of creek is to be the boundary line, however); thence North 54 degrees 12 minutes West 166.10 feet along center of creek to an iron under an old foot bridge; thence North 23 degrees 06 minutes West 311.8 feet along center of creek to a 4" diameter concrete monument; thence South 65 degrees 07 minutes West 39.4 feet; thence North 23 degrees 06 minutes West 93.00 feet to the edge of the Mill Pond; thence North 59 degrees 10 minutes East 70.0 feet along edge of Mill Pond; thence North 21 degrees 51 minutes East 42.0 feet; thence North 19 degrees 31 minutes West 44.0 feet to the edge of the Mill Pond; thence North 54 degrees 07 minutes West 15.15 feet to a 4" diameter concrete monument a few feet from edge of Mill Pond and is the South boundary of the Springer (O'Dell) property; thence North 71 degrees 02 minutes East 163.6 feet to the center of public road which leads from the North to Bowens Mill; thence North 05 degrees 52 minutes 30 seconds East 104.37 feet; thence South 84 degrees 07 minutes 30 seconds East 206.0 feet; thence North 06 degrees 45 minutes East 377.6 feet; thence South 77 degrees 26 minutes East 342.07 feet; thence South 75 degrees East 350.46 feet; thence South 1249.50 feet along the North-South 1/4 line of said Section 8 to the Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Allen Micah Blickley, a married man and Sharon Blickley, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 28, 2008, and recorded on February 19, 2008 in instrument 20080219-0001472, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Eight Thousand Three Hundred Eight and 33/100 Dollars ($138,308.33). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 17, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the Village of Middleville, County of Barry, State of Michigan and described as follows: Lot 7, Block 58 of Village of Middleville according to the Plat thereof recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 27 of Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #398991F01 06778616 (04-19)(05-10) place of beginning. Subject to an easement over the East 33 feet for highway purposes. Also all land along the Mill Pond between the markers and edge of the Mill Pond is part of this conveyance and all land along the East side of the creek between the markers and the creek is part of this conveyance, excepting therefrom commencing at the South 1/4 post of Section 8, Town 3 North, Range 10 West; thence North 1097.75 feet for a place of beginning; thence North 251.75 feet; thence North 75 degrees West 350.46 feet; thence North 77 degrees 26 minutes West 342.07 feet; thence South 06 degrees 45 minutes West 251.75 feet, (Bowens Mills Church Property); thence Southeasterly in a straight line to the place of beginning. Subject to an easement over the East 33 feet of this description along Briggs Road for public highway purposes, also excepting therefrom the South 488 feet thereof. Together with all of the estate, title and interest of Mortgagor, in law or equity, of, in and to such real estate and the buildings and improvements now existing, being constructed, or hereafter constructed or placed thereon, all of the rights, privileges, licenses, easements and appurtenances belonging to such real estate (including - all heretofore or hereafter vacated streets or alleys which are about such real estate), and all fixtures of every kind whatsoever located in or on, or attached to, and used or intended to be used in connection with or with the operation of such real estate, buildings, structures or other improvements thereon or in connection with any construction now or to be conducted or which may be conducted thereon, together with all building materials and equipment now or hereafter delivered to such real estate and intended to be installed therein; any rental revenues, payments, repayments. income, profits, charges. accounts, general intangibles, and moneys derived by Mortgagor (from the lease, sublease, sale, rental or other disposition of the Property, including, but not limited to, all rights conferred by Act No. 210 of the Michigan Public Acts of 1953, as amended (MCLA 554.231 et seq.), and Act No. 228 of the Michigan Public Acts of 1925 as amended (MCLA 554.211 et seq.) Commonly known as: 200 Old Mill Road, Middleville, Michigan P.P. # 08-16-008-020-50 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) stating that the premises are considered abandoned unless Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them gives the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys the premises at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee for damaging the premises during the redemption period. Dated: May 3, 2012 FIFTH THIRD BANK Mortgagee Jeffrey O. Birkhold WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2489 (616) 752-2000 8276021 77567517 �Page 12 — Thursday, May 10, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES SYNOPSIS ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING May 1, 2012 Meeting called to order at 7:00. All board members present. Approved minutes from the April 3, 2012 board meeting with amendment. Approval to rescind motion to compensate trustee failed with roll call vote. Approval to accept “Terrorism Insurance” failed due to no support. Treasurer’s report read and put on file. Fire report read and put on file. County Commissioner’s report read. Library report read. Parks and Recreation report read. Public Comment received: Issue of “Fracking”. Approved paying of the bills. Approved motion to adjourn. Respectfully submitted, Jennifer Goy - Clerk Attested to by Thomas Rook - Supervisor 77567661 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Kyle Main, single man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 1, 2005, and recorded on July 6, 2005 in instrument 1149102, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Flagstar Bank, FSB as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fourteen Thousand One Hundred NinetyOne and 34/100 Dollars ($114,191.34). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 24, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Baltimore, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel 1: Beginning 8 rods East of the Southwest corner of Section 34, Town 2 North, Range 8 West, Baltimore Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence North 40 Rods, thence East 4 Rods; thence South 40 rods, thence West 4 rods to the place of beginning Parcel 2: Beginning 12 rods East of the Southwest corner of Section 34, Town 2 North, Range 8 West, Baltimore Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence North 40 rods, thence East 4 Rods; thence South 40 rods; thence West 4 rods to the place of beginning The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #274135F02 77567256 (04-26)(05-17) AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTIFY US AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by Michael C Dunlap , a married man, Mortgagors, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc (MERS) as nominee for Providence Mortgage Company, Mortgagee, dated the 22nd day of February, 2008 and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, for The County of Barry and State of Michigan, on the 3rd day of March, 2008 in Liber instrument No. 20080303-0001940 of Barry County Records, page , said Mortgage having been assigned to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. on which mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, the sum of One Hundred Four Thousand Six Hundred Forty and 34/100 ($104,640.34), and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on the 7th day of June, 2012 at 1:00 o’clock PM Local Time, said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI (that being the building where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held), of the premises described in said mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due, as aforesaid on said mortgage, with interest thereon at 5.875% per annum and all legal costs, charges, and expenses, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sum or sums which may be paid by the undersigned, necessary to protect its interest in the premises. Which said premises are described as follows: All that certain piece or parcel of land, including any and all structures, and homes, manufactured or otherwise, located thereon, situated in the Village of Nashville, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and described as follows, to wit: Lot 85 of Mix Addition to Nashville, according to the plat thereof recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, page 69 of Barry County Records. During the six (6) months immediately following the sale, the property may be redeemed, except that in the event that the property is determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241a, the property may be redeemed during 30 days immediately following the sale. Pursuant to MCLA 600.3278, the mortgagor(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 5/10/2012 JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Mortgagee ____________ FABRIZIO & BROOK, P.C. Attorney for JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. 888 W. Big Beaver, Suite 800 Troy, Ml 48084 248-362-2600 CHASE FHA GNMA DUNLAP (05-10)(05-31) 77567673 STATE OF MICHIGAN 5TH CIRCUIT COURT-FAMILY DIVISION COUNTY OF BARRY PUBLICATION OF HEARING CASE NO. 12-8432-NA PETITION NO. 12008292 IN THE MATTER OF: KATHLEEN IRENE OLIVIA LOWERY (DOB: 10/01/2010) A Neglect Petition has been filed in the above matter regarding: KATHLEEN OLIVIA LOWERY. DOB. 10-1-10. A TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS HEARING is scheduled for TUESDAY, MAY 15, 2012 AT 11:00 A.M. And will be held at Barry County Trial Court Family Division, 206 W. Court St. Ste. 302, Hastings, MI 49058. IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED THAT LEONARD PAUL LOWERY II personally appear before the Court at the time and place stated above. Failure to attend the hearing will constitute a denial of interest in the minor, a waiver of notice for all subsequent hearings, a waiver of right to appointment of an attorney, which could result in TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS. 77567315 Dated: April 26, May 3, 10, 2012 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Trust In the matter of Lucy A. Jacoby. Trust dated May 10, 1999. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Lucy A. Jacoby, born October 24, 1913, who lived at 690 West Main Street, Middleville, Michigan died February 9, 2012 leaving a certain trust under the name of Jacoby Living Trust, and dated May 10, 1999, wherein the decedent was the Settlor and Jenneane Pelon was named as the trustee serving at the time of or as a result of the decedents death. Creditors of the decedent and of the trust are notified that all claims against the decedent or against the trust will be forever barred unless presented to Jenneane Pelon the named trustee at 12557 Rosemary, Grant, Michigan 49327 within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. 4/27/2012 Robert L. Byington 222 West Apple Street, P.O. Box 248 Hastings, Michigan 49058 269-945-9557 Jenneane Pelon 12557 Rosemary Grant, Michigan 49327 77567522 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by William Humphreys, by Beverly Louise Humphreys as Attorney in Fact and Beverly Humphreys, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 10, 2003, and recorded on August 13, 2003 in instrument 1110831, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy Thousand One Hundred TwentyFive and 57/100 Dollars ($70,125.57). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 17, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 4 and 5 of Block 1 of Chamberlains Addition to the City, formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats on Page 7. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #398819F01 77567192 (04-19)(05-10) MORTGAGE SALE This is an attempt to collect a debt, and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by JEFFREY L. WILLIAMS and JAMIE L. SANMIGUEL, husband and wife, Mortgagors, to MERCANTILE BANK MORTGAGE COMPANY, LLC, having its principal office at 310 Leonard Street NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504, Mortgagee, dated December 4, 2007 and recorded December 21, 2007 in Instrument No. 20071221-0005432 of Mortgages. By reason of such default the undersigned elects to declare the entire unpaid amount of said mortgage due and payable forthwith. At the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on said mortgage the sum of TWO HUNDRED TWENTY THREE THOUSAND SEVEN HUNDRED SEVENTY SIX AND 88/100 ($223,776.88) dollars, including interest at the rate of 7% per annum. No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided and to pay said amount with interest as provided in said mortgage, and all legal costs, charges, and expenses, including attorney fees allowed by law, said mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the east door of the Barry County Courthouse, the place of holding the Circuit Court within the County of Barry, City of Hastings, Michigan, on May 31, 2012, at 1:00 p.m., local time. Pursuant to Public Act No. 104, Public Acts of 1971 [MCLA 600.3240(8), MSA 27A.3240(8)] the redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of the foreclosure sale, unless the property is determined to be abandoned under MCLA 600.3241a; MSA 27A.3241(1), in which case the property may be redeemed during the 30 days immediately following the sale or expiration of statutory notice period or expiration of statutory notice period. The premises covered by said mortgage are situated in the Township of Orangeville, County of Barry, State of Michigan, described as follows, to wit: Lots 132 and 133, Lynden Johncock Plat No. 1, Gun Lake, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats, Page 93, records of Barry County. MERCANTILE BANK MORTGAGE COMPANY, LLC Mortgagee SCHENK BONCHER & RYPMA Gary P. Schenk P19970 601 Three Mile Road, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49544-1601 (616) 647-8277 77567310 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate Decedent: Clayton C. Case. Date of Birth: January 30, 1929. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Clayton C. Case, who lived at 1021 South East Street, Hastings, MI 49058 died April 16, 2012. There is no probate estate. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against Clayton C. Case will be forever barred unless presented to Vivian Case, the named Personal Representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. May 8, 2012 Michele C. Marquardt P39165 DeMent and Marquardt, PLC 211 East Water Street, Ste. 401 Kalamazoo, MI 49007 (269) 343-2106 77567641 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Heather R. Tuffs and Jim Tuffs, wife and husband, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated June 14, 2005, and recorded on June 29, 2005 in instrument 1148767, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Four Thousand Six Hundred Fifty-Two and 62/100 Dollars ($104,652.62). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 24, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The East 1/2 of Lots 2 and 3 and all of Lot 7 of Block 25 of I.N. Keeler's Addition to the Village of Middleville, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 12, Barry County Records The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #395582F01 77567352 (04-26)(05-17) File No 12-26094-DE Estate of Loraine Marlea Lewis Date of Birth: 2/3/1932 TO ALL CREDITORS, the Descendant, Loraine Marlea Lewis died 2/25/2012. NOTICE TO ALL CREDITORS- you are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Jerry Chaffee, named personal representative and to the court 206 W Court ST, Hastings, MI 49058 within 4 months after the publication of this notice. Date: 5-10-2012 Kathryn M. Russell PO Box 241 Hastings, MI 49058 269-945-4243 Vivian Case 1021 South East Street Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 945-3127 77567685 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Michele R. Cady, a married woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 25, 2005, and recorded on August 17, 2005 in instrument 1151282, and assigned by said Mortgagee to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Three Thousand Four Hundred Sixteen and 48/100 Dollars ($93,416.48). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 7, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The East 1/2 of Lots 62 and 63, Q.A. Phillips Addition to the Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan as recorded in Liber 1, Page 38, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 10, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #348982F03 (05-10)(05-31) State of Michigan Probate Court County of Barry Jerry Chaffee 4187 River Rd Hastings, MI 49058 517-388-1347 77567665 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Lynne R. Miller, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated February 11, 2010, and recorded on February 18, 2010 in instrument 201002180001458, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Branch Banking and Trust Company as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Forty-Two Thousand Seven Hundred Fifty and 98/100 Dollars ($42,750.98). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 31, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 18, Cloverdale, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 30, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 3, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #397380F01 77567425 (05-03)(05-24) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Joan Patricia Leos, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Lansing Automakers Federal CU, Mortgagee, dated August 27, 2002, and recorded on September 6, 2002 in instrument 1086940, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Six Thousand Seventy-Eight and 99/100 Dollars ($86,078.99). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 7, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Woodland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 7 and 8 of Block 9 of the Village of Woodland, according to the recorded Plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 10, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #383088F01 (05-10)(05-31) 77567656 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Kenneth Cogswell a married man and Holly Cogswell a married women, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated February 17, 2003, and recorded on March 14, 2003 in instrument 1099484, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Chase Home Finance, LLC as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Fifty-Eight Thousand Six Hundred SeventyNine and 15/100 Dollars ($58,679.15). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 24, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 30 and 31 of Hardendorf Addition to the Village of Nashville, according to the recorded Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 74. Also, The South 1/2 of Lots 32 and 33 of the Plat of the Hardendorf Addition to the Village of Nashville, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 74 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #399284F01 77567359 (04-26)(05-17) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Shirley Little a/k/a Shirley A. Little, by Lorenna Jo Wright, her power of attorney and William F. Little, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 24, 2008, and recorded on August 22, 2008 in instrument 20080822-0008487, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Seven Thousand Thirteen and 59/100 Dollars ($97,013.59). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 17, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 8 Block 7, of the Eastern Addition to the City, formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded Plat thereof, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #398979F01 06778628 (04-19)(05-10) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 10, 2012 — Page 13 Hastings Rotary names top HHS students At its weekly luncheon, the Hastings Rotary Club honored the top 10 all-around students for 2012. Hastings High School Principal Tim Johnston recognized the students, who received a plaque, Rotary key chain and a gift card. The students were chosen for their scholarship, use of talents in school and community service. Anna Cooley, daughter of Chris and Deb Cooley. Cooley participated in Pride Club, was an alderman, student of the month and was recommended for Freshman Leadership Academy at Central Michigan University. She played basketball, volleyball and softball. Cooley was a YMCA T-ball coach and softball coach. She participated in Winterfest 2012 and the Veterans Day video. Cooley works at Daniels Funeral Home. Her interests include swimming, boating and Relay for Life. She plans to attend Central Michigan University to study business and accounting. Cooley is most proud of earning her honor cords. Megan Denny, daughter of Jeffery and Barbara Denny participated in Key Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Students Against Destructive Decisions, Teens Against Tobacco Use, student council and National Honor Society. Denny was quiz bowl captain for two years and Exchange Club Student of the Month. She participated in soccer, basketball, school musicals and plays. She was captain of the Science Olympiad team, participat- The Hastings Rotary 2012 Top 10 includes (front from left) Jennifer Feldpausch, Sarah Thornburgh, Zachary Zwiernikowski, Tessa Johnson and Anna Cooley. The students are joined by their parents, including (back) Kelly Feldpausch, Angie Thornburgh, Rick and Jill Zwiernikowski, Dave Johnson and Deb and Chris Cooley. ing for four years. She was in band, marching band and steel drum band, and was a drum major. Denny attended the Youth Leadership LEGAL NOTICES FOR PUBLICATION ONLY NOTICE PURSUANT TO MCL 600.3205e 7807 N. Lammers Rd. Delton, MI 49046 THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. NOTICE is hereby provided to the borrower(s) and/or mortgagors (hereinafter “Borrower”) regarding the property located at 7807 N. Lammers Rd., Delton, MI 49046. The Borrower has the right to request a meeting with the mortgage holder or mortgage servicer. The agent designated by the Mortgage Servicer and/or Mortgage Holder to contact and that has authority to make agreements under MCL sections 600.3205b and 600.3205c is: Mark D. Hofstee, Bolhouse, Baar & Lefere, P.C., 3996 Chicago Drive SW, Grandville, MI 49418, (616) 531-7711, markh@bolhouselaw.com. The Borrower may contact a housing counselor by visiting the Michigan State Housing Development Authority’s website or by calling the Michigan State Housing Development Authority at http:www.michigan.gov/mshda or at (866) 9467432. If the Borrower requests a meeting with the agent designated above by contacting an approved housing counselor within 30 days from May 8, 2012, foreclosure proceedings will not be commenced until 90 days after May 8, 2012. If the Borrower and the agent designated above reach an agreement to modify the mortgage loan, the mortgage will not be foreclosed if the Borrower abides by the terms of the agreement. The Borrower has the right to contact an attorney. The telephone number of the State Bar of Michigan’s Lawyer Referral Service is (800) 9680738. For more information, please call: Mark D. Hofstee (P66001) Bolhouse, Baar & Lefere, P.C. Attorneys for Kellogg Community Federal Credit Union 3996 Chicago Drive SW Grandville, MI 49418 (616) 531-7711 markh@bolhouselaw.com 77567703 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Dale Cheeseman and Audra Cheeseman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registrations Systems, Inc., as nominee for Novastar Mortgage, Inc. its successors and assigns., Mortgagee, dated May 12, 2006, and recorded on June 7, 2006 in instrument 1165690, and assigned by said Mortgagee to U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for J.P. Morgan Mortgage Acquisition Trust 2006-HE3, Asset Backed Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2006-HE3 as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Four Thousand Five Hundred SeventyNine and 09/100 Dollars ($104,579.09). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 17, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 1256 of the City, formerly Village of Hastings, according to the Recorded plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #375543F01 06778622 (04-19)(05-10) NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate of Bernard L Peck. Date of Birth: July 05, 1929. To All Creditors: Notice To Creditors: The decedent, Bernard L Peck, who lived at 1004 Maple Circle, Hastings, Michigan 49058 died April 19, 2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Joyce Peck, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, at 1435 S. Dibble St., Hastings, Michigan 49058, 269/908/3403 or to both the probate court and the named/proposed personal representative within 08/06/2012 after the date of publication of this notice. Joyce Peck, Personal Representative for the Estate 1435 S. Dibble St. Hastings, Michigan 49058 269/908/3403 77567679 SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by JEFFERY CHASE, A SINGLE MAN, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated May 17, 2007, and recorded on May 23, 2007, in Document No. 1180894, and assigned by said mortgagee to GMAC Mortgage, LLC successor by merger to GMAC Mortgage Corporation, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Twenty-One Thousand Three Hundred Seventy-Four Dollars and Eighty-One Cents ($221,374.81), including interest at 5.000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on June 7, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: PARCEL 1: A PARCEL OF LAND IN THE SOUTHWEST 1 / 4 OF THE NORTHWEST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 8, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 7 WEST, MAPLE GROVE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF THE SOUTHWEST 1 / 4 OF THE NORTHWEST 1 / 4 OF SAID SECTION 8; THENCE NORTH 88 DEGREES 31 MINUTES 15 SECONDS EAST 1320.80 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 00 DEGREES 04 MINUTES 40 SECONDS WEST 330 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 88 DEGREES 31 MINUTES 15 SECONDS WEST 1320.58 FEET TO THE WEST LINE OF SAID SECTION 8; THENCE DUE NORTH 330 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. PARCEL 2: A PARCEL OF LAND IN THE NORTHWEST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 8, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 7 WEST, MAPLE GROVE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE WEST LINE OF SAID SECTION 8 WHICH LIES 1488.25 FEET DUE SOUTH OF THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF SAID SECTION 8; THENCE NORTH 88 DEGREES 31 MINUTES 15 SECONDS EAST 1320.58 FEET TO THE WEST 1 / 8 LINE; THENCE SOUTH 00 DEGREES 04 MINUTES 40 SECONDS WEST 663.31 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 88 DEGREES 34 MINUTES WEST 1319.67 FEET; THENCE DUE NORTH 662.23 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. EXCEPT THE NORTH 165 FEET AND EXCEPT THE SOUTH 165 FEET OF THE ABOVE DESCRIBED PARCEL OF LAND. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. GMAC Mortgage, LLC successor by merger to GMAC Mortgage Corporation Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 GMAC.012202 (0510)(05-31) 77567717 Summit for two years and was a Michigan Mathematics Prize Competition Winner and second-round qualifier. Her community involvement includes the United Way, St. Rose vacation Bible school and YMCA youth basketball. Denny plans to attend Rhodes College to study biology and history with hopes of becoming a family physician. She is most proud of maintaining balance between school, work, family, friends and faith. Jennifer Feldpausch, daughter of Stephen and Kelly Feldpausch, was student of the month as both freshman and senior. Feldpausch was the 2011-12 Hastings High School Homecoming Queen. She served on student council four years and participated in FCA, NHS and TATU. Feldpausch played four years of soccer, being named AllConference her junior year and All-District her sophomore and junior years. She was captain of the varsity volleyball team and was named hardest working player as a freshman and most valuable player as a senior. Feldpausch volunteered as counselor for children’s volleyball and soccer camps, along with Bible school. She plays the piano at her church and gives piano lessons. Feldpausch plans to attend Grand Valley State University to study occupational therapy. She is most proud of everything she has accomplished academically, athletically and personally. Brian Graybill, son of Dan and Sandy Graybill, has received Academic Honors awards and is a member of the National Honor Society. He was student of the month for both Exchange Club and Kiwanis Club and was on the 2012 homecoming court. Graybill has participated in Key Club, marching, concert and steel drum bands, Varsity Singers, winter musicals and fall plays, as well as the Friday morning Bible study. He has played varsity tennis four years. His community involvement includes Thornapple Arts Council Jazz Festival, Summerfest tennis tournament, trick-or-treating for UNICEF, Relay for Life, church worship team and youth group. Graybill plans to attend Spring Arbor University and major in business. He is most proud of performing in six musicals including the lead roles in “White Christmas” and “Anything Goes.” Tessa Johnson, daughter of David and Joni Johnson, was part of the Western Michigan’s Academically Talented Youth Program for English literature and composition for two years. She is a member of National Honor Society. Johnson has participated in soccer, cross country, tennis, color guard, jazz and symphonic band, Interact and Key Club, student council, musicals and plays, SADD, Youth Advisory Council, TATU, and dance Among the Hastings Rotary 2012 Top 10 students are (front from left) Megan Denny, Brian Graybill, Katy Kesler, Joey Longstreet and Sarah Sleevi. They are joined by their parents (back) Jeff and Barb Denny, Dan and Sandy Graybill, Mike and Marge Kesler, Rob and Cathy Longstreet, Vickie and Tim Sleevi and Rotary President Don Haney. team. She was involved with Youth in volleyball and tennis and was named a Government and Youth Leadership Summit, Scholar Athlete. Sleevi is in the HHS top 10 and she volunteered at Pennock Hospital and and was named an Exchange Club student of Barry County Substance Abuse. Her awards the month. She is also a member of KCC’s include Exchange Club Student of the Month, Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. Sleevi has Everyday Hero Award, and Best Color Guard. been part of six school musicals and played Johnson plans to attend the Grand Valley principal roles in four productions. Her comState University Frederik Meijer Honors munity activities include the diabetes dance College and study engineering. She is most marathon, tutoring, making Christmas baskets proud of her work in substance abuse preven- at St. Rose, vacation Bible school, volunteering at Pennock Hospital and trick-or-treating tion. Kathryn Kesler, daughter of Mike and for UNICEF. Sleevi plans to attend Wheeling Marge Kesler, has been an Exchange Club Jesuit University and be part of the Wheeling and Kiwanis Club student of the month, a Jesuit Singers. She is most proud of her role member of the National Honor Society for in the production of “White Christmas.” Sarah Thornburgh, daughter of Rob and two years and an advisor. Kesler participated in Science Olympiad, FFA, Key Club, FCA, Angie Thornburgh, played tennis and volleymarching and steel drum bands, YAC, Youth ball. She was tennis team captain as a junior in Government and the school musical. Her and the boy’s tennis manager her junior and community activities included the Barry senior years. Thornburgh has participated in County Chamber golf outing, Paws with a marching and jazz band and four school Cause, Pioneer Club, camp dishwasher, Relay musicals. She is a member of Key Club and for Life, Love for Lennon, vacation Bible National Honor Society. Thornburgh was school assistant, tutoring, free lunch program, named Exchange Club student of the month, Commission on Aging, trick-or-treating for HHS student of the month her freshman and UNICEF, and Methodist Easter egg hunt. senior year and a Scholar Athlete. She particKesler has also been active in 4-H, Michigan ipated in Science Olympiad and was essay Junior Simmental Association, Michigan winner and Good Citizen for Daughters of the Junior Livestock Society, Michigan Junior American Revolution. Her community activiChi Association, dog washing at Scoobydoo’s ties include being a Pennock volunteer and a and Kitty’s Too, and working at Camp member of 4-H for nine years. Thornburgh Michawana. She plans to attend Michigan plans to attend Duke University to study biolState University to major in animal science ogy and chemistry, then pursue a medical and become a veterinarian. She is most proud degree. She plans to specialize in researchof being the reserve champion senior show- based medicine. Thornburgh is most proud of keeping her commitments to groups, activiman at the Barry County Fair. Joseph Longstreet, son of Rob and Cathy ties and school. Zachary Zwiernikowski, son of Rick and Longstreet, is a National Merit Scholarship winner. He also is an Advanced Placement Jill Zwiernikowski, has been a member of Scholar with Honor, MHSAA Scholar Athlete Key Club, TATU, SADD, youth group at his Finalist, and National Honor Society member. church, FCA and Friday morning Bible study. He has participated in student council, Zwiernikowski participated in band, marchScience Olympiad, Key Club, YAC and Youth ing band, steel drum band and jazz band. He in Government. He was captain of the soccer was part of the TK/Hastings Swim Team, team, receiving honorable mention All- serving as team captain as a senior. He holds District and All-Conference honors. two school swimming records and was AllLongstreet has been in three high school County for three years, earning Allmusicals and one with the Thornapple Conference honors as a senior. He also Players. He received honorable mention Best coached youth swimming for a year. Featured Performer in the 2011 Excellence in Zwiernikowski was named a Scholar Athlete. High School Theater Awards. He attended the He participated in the Youth Leadership Battle Creek Area Math and Science Center Summit, was a tutor, a group leader and for independent research. Longstreet volun- teacher for vacation Bible school, and helped teers at the Kellogg Biological Station. He build a Habitat for Humanity house on a will be attending Brown University and youth mission trip. Zwiernikowski has been majoring in chemistry and theater arts. accepted into the honors program at Ferris Longstreet is most proud of his theater per- State University and plans to study nursing. He plans to work as an emergency room regformances and lead roles in two musicals. Sarah Sleevi, daughter of Tim and Vickie istered nurse and become a nurse practitioner. Sleevi, has participated in band, marching He is most proud of staying true to himself, band, steel drum band and was drum major as following his morals and beliefs and not cava senior. She was a member of FCA, Key ing to peer pressure. Club, Spanish Club and SADD. She played Kiwanis members learn about foreign currency exchange trading by David DeDecker Staff Writer Isaac Solmes spoke to the Hastings Kiwanis Club April 25 about his career in currency trading. Solmes graduated from Brigham Young University with a major in linguistics and minor in Arabic. He lived for two semesters in Egypt. He started a technology business with a friend in London that revolves around the foreign currency exchange. “Trading currencies is similar to trading stock, but it is not buying part of something as you do with stock,” said Solmes. “With currency trading, you buy the dollar against the pound, or the Euro against the pound. It is kind of a contrived market, but it’s the most liquid market in the world. About $4 trillion a day trade hands — most of it is interbank and institutional. Ninety percent of the trading is between the Euro and U.S. dollar, but there is not an entity to be traded; it is just currency.” According to Wikipedia, the foreign exchange market (forex, FX, or currency market) is a form of exchange for the global decentralized trading of international currencies. Financial centers around the world function as anchors of trading between a wide range of different types of buyers and sellers around the clock, with the exception of weekends. The foreign exchange market determines the relative values of different currencies. Solmes said that because of the 2010 Isaac Solmes speaks to the Hastings Kiwanis Club about the business of foreign currency investment. Dodd-Frank Act, U.S. citizens are only allowed to have money in U.S. brokerage firms. He said many of the brokerage firms in the United States were crushed by the new regulations, and many of the firms went overseas. “You can’t trade commodities anymore in the U.S. You can’t trade gold or silver or oil,” said Solmes. “We talk about oil speculation all the time, but guess what? I can’t buy oil right now. I can buy a barrel of oil or an ounce of gold, but I cannot trade the market. It is now illegal to do so in the United States. It is legal to do everywhere else in the world. Major brokerage firms have left the United States. The requirement for brokerage firms went from having $5 million cash on hand to needing $20 million cash on hand. Hundreds of brokerage firms fled the country and went to England, Australia, or Jamaica.” Solmes discussed the many relationships of the currency market, the stock market, gold and oil, the strength of the dollar and the speculation involved. He said all of the markets are interconnected, and investors need to understand them all. Each market has plenty of movement and plenty of risk. Solmes told a story of someone who made 540 percent on his investment one day and lost the money the following day. Getting back to the Dodd-Frank Act Solmes said, “I was working with a company in Salt Lake City. They had about 60 major employees who were making six-figure salaries. The company was moving a billion dollars a year. For the community, you can understand what kind of impact that would have. When the Act passed, they were given the option to move out of the country or lose your job. Think about the economy that was disaffected in Salt Lake. They lost 60 highincome, high-taxable community residents.” �Page 14 — Thursday, May 10, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Woman convicted of embezzling from local telephone companies Judy Jean Jones, 59, of Portage was sentenced in Barry County Circuit Court May 3 on a charge of embezzlement over $20,000. Jones was ordered to serve 12 to 120 months in prison and pay $210,314 in costs and restitution. According to a source at Barry County Telephone Company in Delton, Jones was employed at the company, but left in 2006. A recent audit revealed nearly $209,000 missing. Jones’ sentence is to be served concurrently with a Kalamazoo County sentence for embezzlement of over $400,000 from CTS Telecom/Climax Telecommunications. She worked at CTS starting in 2007. Jones was sentenced in Kalamazoo Circuit Court to up to 20 years on a charge of embezzlement over $100,000. Three other charges of embezzlement were dropped. Keiper sentenced to life in prison Jason Lee Keiper was sentenced May 3 to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Keiper was charged with open murder charges for allegedly killing his step-grandfather Ralph Edwards of Delton with a hammer in March 2011. Keiper’s trial started Feb. 13, and the jury returned from deliberation Feb. 15 to find him guilty of first degree murder. COURT NEWS Kyle Thomas McNerny, 21, of Hastings was sentenced for controlled substance less than 25 grams. McNerny was ordered May 2 to serve six months in jail, with credit for two days served. He must pay $3,698 in court assessments and serve 18 months on probation. The balance of his jail sentence will be suspended upon successful completion of probation, along with a substance abuse assessment and treatment. Travis Wayne Powell, 32, of Battle Creek was sentenced May 2 for delivery or manu- facturing of marijuana. Powell was ordered to serve 90 days in jail, with credit for one day served. He must pay $2,448 in court assessments and serve 12 months on probation. The balance of his jail time will be suspended upon successful completion of probation. Powell must complete a substance abuse assessment and treatment. He also was ordered to pay $300 per month toward assessments. Charges of delivery or manufacturing of marijuana five to 40 kilograms, possession marijuana, and habitual offender, second offense, were dropped. POLICE BEAT BEA Help wanted on break-ins and vandalism Hastings Police began receiving complaints the morning of May 1 regarding vehicle break-ins that had occurred throughout the night. In one incident on West Blair Street, the owner reported that a piece of cloth had been taken from inside his vehicle and placed under the rear window wiper and then lit on fire. The burning material charred the vehicle’s paint. Hastings Police are asking anyone with information concerning the break-ins to call police or Silent Observer. Beer denial leads to fight Hastings Police responded to a property in the 300 block of East State Road May 3 where officers were met by an alleged victim of domestic assault. The 23-year-old woman said she and her step-dad had gotten into an argument after she refused to go to the store and purchase more beer. According to the woman, the two had separated, after which the step-dad turned his aggressions on a 67-year-old woman. Fearing for the older woman’s safety, the younger female told the man to stop. The younger woman was allegedly assaulted, and a fight erupted. The 51-year-old step-dad, a Hastings resident, was arrested for domestic assault. House not entered, but damage is done Goods are paid for A Nashville man reported April 29 that after the fact someone had attempted to break into his house while he and his wife were away. When returning from dinner, the couple noticed mud on their entry door, and the door was damaged. Deputies were told the door frame also was cracked. Although there were visible pry marks on the door and frame, the house was not entered. There are no suspects. Damage is estimated at $475. Man arrested on warrants had something to hide Hastings Police were dispatched May 2 to a residence in the 100 block of East State Street where a 28-year-old Hastings man was arrested on warrants. The man, who initially gave officers a false name, finally confessed to his real identity after officers questioned him further about the surname he originally provided. During the arrest, officers located a suspected illegal substance. Preliminary tests indicated that the substance may commonly be known as “bath salts.” The man was lodged at the jail for several outstanding warrants. Charges are pending for the suspected illegal substance. Man denies pointing gun at girlfriend A Bellevue woman called the Barry County Sheriff’s Department May 1 to report an assault. She told deputies her 46year-old live-in boyfriend had pointed a gun at her. When deputies arrived at the Keyes Road residence, the victim told deputies she was done with the relationship because she believes the man looks at young girls. They had been fighting about him looking at a girl that day. The fighting continued, and the woman told the man to move out of the house. The man said before he left, he wanted his guns, but the woman would not comply. The couple were fighting over a gun until the man pointed it at the woman. She was able to call 911 and the man put the gun down, leaving the house. The man denied pointing the gun at the woman and told deputies the gun was not loaded. The man was arrested for felonious assault. Barry County Deputies were dispatched May 5 to Hastings Walmart in reference to a wheelchair-bound 56-year-old Hastings man detained for shoplifting. A store employee said it was the second time the man has been caught since April. The man apologized and paid for the items, valued at $83. The subject was arrested and the case is pending prosecutor review. Car vandalized in Cloverdale driveway Deputies were called to Cloverdale Road in Hastings May 4 for the reported theft of a cell phone from a vehicle. Deputies reported the passenger-side tires were deflated on the green 1998 Mazda pickup. The car had also been “keyed” on the passenger side. Deputies were told the truck had been unlocked at the time. The phone was later found in the victim’s yard and was not damaged. The case is closed. Attacker wants to press charges against victim Deputies investigated a reported domestic assault on Lindsey Road near Plainwell April 22. A woman said she had been helping a friend train his horses when his exgirlfriend showed up and wanted to talk. The complainant left the area and sat down. She told deputies she heard yelling, and the next thing she knew, the ex-girlfriend had her by the ponytail and started pulling her around. The woman said she had to strike the 23-year-old Delton woman several times before the aggressor let go of her hair. The subject later admitted to grabbing the woman’s hair and trying to throw her to the ground. The victim told deputies she did not want to pursue charges, but wanted the exgirlfriend to stay away from her. The attacker said she wanted to pursue charges against the victim, because she hit her six or seven times before getting away. She said she understood and would stay away from the victim. The case is closed because the victim refused to prosecute. Reid earns spot on Spring Arbor squad by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Maple Valley senior Garrett Reid has been an all-conference football player in the Kalamazoo Valley Association using his athletic ability as a quarterback, running back, defensive back and kick returner. He used his speed and vision as an all-conference point guard on the varsity boys’ basketball team as well. He has raced past the grandstand in the 100-meter and 200-meter dash at the Division 3 Track and Field State Finals. In college, he’s going to use his speed and talent in what has been probably the least visible of his high school sporting endeavors. Reid signed his National Letter of Intent Thursday afternoon to join the Spring Arbor Men’s Track and Field program. His main event at Spring Arbor will be the long jump. The long jump might be the least visible to spectators, but it is clearly Reid’s favorite. “I’ve been training forever, for like five years. It pays off finally,” said Reid. He said he’s put in numerous long practice sessions, regularly staying an hour after the track and field practice is over to work on his jumps with his father, Gary Reid, and assistant coach Brian Hopkins. “We go through drills. We go through approach runs. We get drills in for height. Just persistent drills to get it down to a science,” Garrett said. All that work helped Reid win three state medals at last year’s track and field state finals in Comstock Park. He was third in the long jump (21 feet 10.5 inches) and eighth in the 100-meter dash (11.45 seconds). He’s hoping to medal in both the 100-meter dash and the 200-meter dash at the state finals this spring, and to challenge for a state championship in the long jump. Garrett said he chose Spring Arbor from Rain ends jamboree early, Lakewood comes out on top Storms brought an early end to Thursday’s Capital Area Activities Conference White Division jamboree at Centennial Acres in Sunfield, but didn’t wipe it out entirely. The Vikings walked away with the rainshortened victory. The scores for each player were calculated through each player’s first 6 holes played to par, completing the jamboree based on the modified scoring. “Our guys played some excellent golf, and we were able to count four very solid scores today,” said Viking head coach Carl Kutch. “Before we started play the coaches made a decision to count the round if we got a minimum of five holes in. We knew the storms were a very good possibility. Everyone got at least six holes in, so we counted the top four scores to par for the team score.” Jade Bosworth finished the day even for the Vikings, while Ben Ridder was just oneover-par and Adam Barker and Kyler Clark were each three-over. Bosworth got seven holes in, and was even at that point. “He has been striking the ball with his irons so well, and he managed the course very nicely today. Jade ended up co-medalist along with Niko Voutsaras from Lansing Catholic,” Kutch said. “Ben Ridder also posted an excellent score today, making par on his first five holes and a bogey on his sixth.” Lakewood won the day’s jamboree at +7, Portland was second at +13, followed by Williamston +14, Lansing Catholic +14, Corunna +25 and Perry +37. Lakewood’s boys will meet up with the league again Thursday, at the jamboree hosted by Lansing Catholic, then head to the Redwing Invitational at the Emerald Friday. The Vikings followed up their win at the league jamboree Thursday with a 13th-place finish at Friday’s CAAC-Open at the Eldorado Golf Course. Holt took the day’s title in the 20-team field, with a score of 300. Jackson Lumen Christi was second with a 304, followed by Haslett 308, Mason 311, Okemos 311, East Lansing 317, Grand Ledge 317, Lansing Catholic 317, DeWitt 321, Williamston 321, Portland 329, St. Johns 332, Lakewood 337, Corunna 338, Ionia 363, Jackson Northwest 365, Jackson 373, Sexton 387, Waverly 399 and Lansing Eastern 424. Royce Everts led Lakewood with an 82, which put him in a tie for 44th place. The Vikings also had Barker shoot an 83, Bosworth an 85, and Ridder and Clark added 87s. Lumen Christi’s Connor Talbert was the day’s medalist, topping Lansing Catholic’s Jacob Johnson in a play-off after both golfers finished the first 18 with one-over-par 72s. Lakewood returned to action Tuesday at Yankee Springs Golf Course, and scored a 162-186 win over host Thornapple Kellogg. Barker and Clark tied for the day’s low round, each shooting a 39. Lakewood also got a pair of 42s from Bosworth and Ridder. Kegan Thomas led Thornapple Kellogg with a 42, while Josh VanSickle added a 47, Alex Koetsier a 48 and Ben Jazwinski a 49. Maple Valley senior Garrett Reid is joined by his parents Gary (left) and Gina as he signs his National Letter of Intent to join the Spring Arbor Men’s Track and Field program Thursday afternoon in the Maple Valley Junior/Senior High School cafeteria. (Photo by Brett Bremer) among the colleges that were calling on him to be a part of their track and field and/or football teams, because of the family atmosphere. “Everyone just felt friendly and down to Earth,” he said. “I tell my guys all the time, it’s how you do what you do that matters the most,” said Spring Arbor Men’s Track and Field head coach Dante Ottolini. “I feel really excited Garrett’s character reflects that. Obviously, he’s a great athlete. That shows itself in his performances, but more than that is the ‘how’ part in terms of the character, how he holds himself and obviously how you go about the process to get there too.” Reid will certainly participate in the long jump at Spring Arbor. He may work his way into a spot in some of the sprint relays at some point. Ottolini would also like to try him in a new event. “We’re going to explore the triple jump with him,” Ottolini said. “The triple jump is not a high school event, so it’s an unknown, but he’s got the speed and the jumping ability. You need to be strong to handle that event, because there’s so much of a pounding on the body.” Hastings Banner CLASSIFIED ADS To place your ad call us at 269-945-9554! For Sale National Ads AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. 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No experience needed! Local CDL Training! Job ready in 15 days! 1-877-649-2697. CASE MANAGER POSITION. This position provides the opportunity to work within a growing mental health agency to serve the developmentally disabled and mentally ill populations. The position requires creativity and flexibility as well as the ability to function in a team atmosphere. Applicant must posses a BSW, LBSW is preferred and three years experience working with families and children. Responsibilities include outreach, referral, counseling of clients and their families, supervision of persons in community settings, liaison with licensing agencies, and maintenance of records. A car is required. Send resume to: Barry County Community Mental Health Authority, 915 W. Green St., Hastings, MI 49058. No phone calls. EOE. VARSITY BOYS BASKETBALL COACH. Visit www.dkschools.org <http://www.dkschools.org > for additional information. Wanted BUYING OLD POCKET watches, old wind up wrist watches, working or not working. Call George (616)916-8271 BUYING WWII, WWI, Civil War uniforms, weapons, helmets, bayonets, German, Japanese, and American. Call George (616)916-8271 PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 10, 2012 — Page 15 Scots win battle of unbeaten Gold soccer teams by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Trojans changed up their line-up for their battle between teams that were unbeaten in the O-K Gold Conference action heading into Wednesday night’s contest. “We played a 4-5-1 against them. We generally play a 4-4-2,” said Thornapple Kellogg head coach Joel Strickland. “They like to play Rubina (Veerakone) in the center, so our goal was to kind of shut down that center then let our outside defenders shut down their forwards.” Easier said than done. Veerakone took a pass from teammate McKenna Maynard in the 33rd minute, skipped between two Trojan defenders at the top of the 18 and fired a shot into the open net for a 3-0 Caledonia lead. The Fighting Scots improved to 5-0 in the O-K Gold Conference with their 5-1 victory over the visiting Trojans. Veerakone had two goals and an assist. She found room in the center of the field and tipped a centering pass from teammate Olivia Clipfell to Alena Olsen in the ninth minute, which Olsen kicked in for the Scots’ first goal. Caledonia led 3-0 at the half, also getting a goal from Shelby Kresnak, off an assist from Kendra Stauffer. “Caledonia is good,” said Strickland. “I think, especially in the second half, we played a great second half against them. One, they’re a great team. They’re well coached. They’ve got some girls on their team that are fast as lightning, Rubina and Corrie Good and (Sam) Maher. Those girls, they’re lightning man. They’re so quick. Our defense did a good job. Our goal was just to contain them. Not to step too quick on them, and make them make that south pass, instead of penetration. In the sec- ond half I felt like we did a good job. Their two goals in the second half I felt like were mistakes on our part. We had opportunities in the second half too, and put one in on them. You definitely don’t want to lose, but I’m happy with how we played and I think our girls worked incredibly hard.” The Trojans are now 4-1-1 in the O-K Gold Conference, and 7-2-2 overall. They added a 9-0 win over visiting Ottawa Hills Monday. Caledonia’s girls are now 6-0 in the league after topping Forest Hills Eastern 3-1 in over- The Trojans’ Maki Agostini tries to shield the ball from Caledonia’s Corrie Good during the second half Wednesday in Caledonia. (Photo by Brett Bremer) time Monday. Erin Scheidel scored TK’s lone goal against the Fighting Scots. Scheidel and teammate Jessica Ziccarello pressured the Caledonia defense into a mistake in the 51st minute. Scheidel knocked down a clearing attempt by the Scots, then beat everyone to the ball to get a shot off and make it a 4-1 game. The Scots got the first goal of the second half, 1:24 into the second half, as Stauffer scored off an assist from Good. Veerakone added the final goal, in the 55th minute, curving a shot from about 25 yards into the open net, as TK keeper Chelsea Totten was scrambling to get back into position after making one fine save on Stauffer. Totten had 16 saves on the 21 Fighting Scot shots that went on net. Ryann Zourdos (playing in the second half) and Brooke Hubbel, combined to make five saves for Caledonia. “I thought we played better in the first half,” said Fighting Scot head coach Steve Sanxter. “I thought Middleville was resilient, then I thought we opened the second half good. I think, to their credit, Middleville started carrying more of the play and we weren’t as organized. It was a hard fought game and we’re glad to get the win.” TK had nine different players score its nine goals in the league win over the visiting Bengals Monday in Middleville. Emily Adams, Allison Brown, Sydnee Boonstra, Taylor Dalton, Victoria Fuller, Kelli Graham, Scheidel, Holley Tripp, and Ziccarello scored for the Trojans. Hayley Balsitis had two assists. TK was scheduled to close out the conference season with a home game against South Christian Wednesday. The Trojans head to Thornapple Kellogg’s Emily Adams collides with Caledonia’s McKenna Maynard as they go after a header in the midfield during Wednesday’s O-K Gold Conference contest in Caledonia. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Otsego Friday and Wyoming Park Monday for non-conference contests, then will open play at home in the O-K Gold Conference Tournament Thursday, May 17. Community helps LHS build on its vision for soccer field by Brett Bremer Sports Editor A group of 20 gathered for a dedication in front of the new scoreboard at the new soccer field on the west side of Lakewood High School Tuesday (May 1). Carbon Green BioEnergy donated close to $8,000 as well as a number of hours of work to buying and constructing the new scoreboard and a net system behind the goal at the north end of the field. The Lakewood High School boys’ soccer teams played the first games on the field last fall, and the Lakewood girls’ soccer teams got their first game action in on the field Tuesday evening. “I have a vision,” said Lakewood High School athletic director Bill Barker. “It takes time. One thing at a time. This is a great addition. This really sets it off.” The parts of the vision new to the field this spring also include bleachers on the east side of the field, and benches with shelters on the west side. “We had been talking with the superintendent Mike O’Mara and with (athletic director) Bill (Barker) about budget cuts in the school system, and where as a large corporate business in his district, what are the things that we could help him with? Soccer was the fastest growing program which would benefit K-12,” said Carbon Green BioEnergy CEO Mitch Miller. Barker said that there are more than 200 youth throughout the school district involved in soccer at some level or another. Carbon Green BioEnergy purchased the scoreboard from a company in South Dakota, then went to work. “Our maintenance team really did all the work, from fabricating the posts and did all the electrical work inside,” Miller said. “I really want to give those guys some credit too. They put quite a bit of hours into it. It was always added. A couple of them were graduates of Lakewood and we are really appreciative that they were able to do that job.” It’s been a team effort in keeping the Saxon soccer gets first Gold win Wayland made the most of its scoring chances Monday to knock off the Saxon varsity girls’ soccer team in Hastings, 4-1. The Wildcats scored three of their four goals on set plays. “Defensively, those are where you can’t afford to make mistakes, and on two of those, we had mental errors which cost us goals,” said Hastings head coach Sarah Smith. Megan Ziegler scored the lone goal for the Saxons, midway through the second half, on a penalty kick after being tripped up in the box. “My first reaction was to turn to my assistant coach, Ellie Devroy, to try and figure out amongst the two of us who was going to take it, but Ziegler got up off the turf, picked up the ball and set it for the PK. That shows some definite confidence. She wanted that kick,” Smith said. “She never even looked over at us to ask. That’s what a coach likes to see, especially because most girls have difficulty handling the pressure of a PK.” The Saxons’ Maicee Herrington passes the ball against Wayland Monday evening in Hastings. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Carbon Green BioEnergy CEO Mitch Miller gets set to cut the yellow ribbon as members of Carbon Green BioEnergy, Lakewood Public Schools, the Lakewood Athletic Association, the Lake Odessa Area Chamber of Commerce and the Lakewood Soccer Club gather at the dedication of the new soccer field on the west side of the Lakewood High School Tuesday afternoon. The group included (front from left) William Barker, Mitch Miller, Debbie Blundy, Evelyn David, (middle row) Kevin Wheeler, Sara Hoppes, Nathan Boucher, Jason Jerke, Jim Murphy, Maggie Benham, Shawn Durkee, Gabe Corey, (back) Victor Stank, Al Jentz, Willis Rugg, Nick Rice, Jeff Livermore, David Cramer, Denny Sauers Jr. and Gary Lazarski. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Hastings goalkeeper Bre Sinclair stretches to get her fingertips on a Wayland shot during Monday’s O-K Gold Conference contest inside Baum Stadium at Johnson Field. (Photo by Perry Hardin) That wasn’t the only offensive chance for the Saxons in the hard-fought contest. Hastings got some excellent offensive effort from midfielders Haley Wagner and Morganne Hubbell, and Jennifer Jarman, Dani Meredith, Jenny Feldpausch, Janelle Pifer, Amber Dunkelberger and Dallas McKay also contributed to the attack. “Wayland was resilient,” said Smith. “They kept going, but I felt we were definitely the better team, we just couldn’t capitalize on some great opportunities we had at their net.” The Saxons are now 1-5 in the O-K Gold Conference. They were scheduled to close out the league regular season Wednesday against Forest Hills Eastern. Hastings scored its first victory in O-K Gold Conference action Wednesday, topping Ottawa Hills 13-0 in Grand Rapids. Ziegler had two goals for the Saxons, and Emily Macqueen, Meredith, Pifer, Haley Perkins-Craven, Maicee Herrington, Tori Schoessel, Amber Nurenberg, Feldpausch and Bre Sinclair. Sinclair and Macqueen combined to earn the shut-out in net, with the help of defenders, Herrington, Schoessel, Wagner, Amber Dunkelberger, Sammy Ackels and Jordan Morrison. The Saxons will be at Delton Kellogg Friday, then play their final home game of progress going. Along with Carbon Green BioEnergy’s contributions, the Lakewood Athletic Association donated money to buy the shelters in an auction from Grand Valley State University, paid for a new sound system for the field which has speakers mounted atop the new scoreboard, and will be paying for cement under the team shelters and the bleachers, which will be poured this summer. The Lakewood Soccer Club also donated money to help buy the shelters, as did Union Bank. There are hopes to eventually build a press box, a memorial area with a flag pole, a brick entryway to the complex, and even another soccer field just to the west. Barker said in a statement that it would not be possible for Lakewood to have the top facilities that it does without the support of organizations like the ones currently helping with the soccer complex. He also acknowledged the countless hours put in by Steve Spetoskey, who takes care of all the fields. Saxon softball scores 39 runs in Grand Rapids Saxon defender Tori Schoessel settles a bouncing ball during her team’s contest with Wayland Monday in Hastings. (Photo by Perry Hardin) the regular season Monday against Harper Creek. The Saxons only got to play six innings in Grand Rapids Tuesday. Hastings varsity softball team swept its OK Gold Conference doubleheader at Ottawa Hills, taking game one 19-0 in three innings and game two 20-0 in three innings. The Saxons started the afternoon by scoring four runs in the top of the first inning of game one. Marissa Adams, Laken Meade and Erika Rozell drew walks, then a triple by Katie DeVries and a single by Stevie Pennepacker drove in the Saxon runs. Hastings added 13 runs in the second inning, on 14 hits. DeVries added two more triples, Meade tripled and singled in the inning, and Lexi Clow and Anna Cooley each had a double and a single. Liz Guernsey and Rozell had tow singles each, Pennepacker a double and Adams a single. The Saxons added two more runs in the third inning, on singles by Brianne Whiteman and Katie DelCotto and a double from Farrah Salazar. Meade pitched a one-hitter to get the win. She struck out seven batters and did not issue a walk. In game two the Saxons used numerous walks along with hits by DeVries, Meade, Salazar, Rozell, Cooley and DelCotto to score 20 runs. Meade pitched a no-hitter in the second game, striking out six and walking one. Hastings improves to 5-5 in the O-K Gold Conference with the two wins. The Saxons host Wayland for two Tuesday. The Saxons were scheduled to visit Allegan Wednesday, and are back in action Saturday at the Delton Kellogg Invitational. �Page 16 — Thursday, May 10, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Vikings lose a couple of close ones at Wayland it was a rough day for the Lakewood varsity softball team at Saturday’s Wayland Invitational. The Vikings were 0-3 on the day, falling in a pair of two-run games to start play and then falling 6-0 to St. Joe in the contest for seventh place in the eight-team tournament. The final contest was the only one in which the Vikings were out-hit. St. Joe pitcher Rachael Knapp gave the Vikings fits with her hard rise-ball, while also mixing in her other pitches. She earned the win, allowing Lakewood just singles by Broke Wieland and Jessica Salazar. Knapp struck out 17 and walked two in the complete game effort. St. Joe scored once in the first and four in the second, then tacked on a final run in the top of the fourth. Lakewood outhit Comstock 8-4 in the second game of the day for the Vikings, but fell 4-2. The Colts jumped ahead with a run in the bottom of the second and then three in the bottom of the third. Lakewood got single runs in the fifth and sixth, but left eight runners on base in the contest. The Colts didn’t do much better though, stranding seven. Cori Curtis and Liz Campeau led the Viking offense with two singles each. Beth Tingley had a triple. Campeau and Konner Geiger drove in the two Lakewood runs. Wieland took the loss, giving up three hits and four walks in the first two and one-third innings. Britteny Hilley came on to shut down the Colts the rest of the way, allowing just one hit and one walk. Hilley also came on in relief of Khila Hamilton who took the loss against Viking pitcher Britteny Hilley hurls the ball towards the plate against St. Joseph Saturday at the Wayland Invitational. (Photo by Brett Bremer) St. Joe, and struck out two while allow three hits and one earned run in the final five and one-third innings of that game. Hilley got the start as the Vikings opened the day against Stevensville-Lakeshore. Lakeshore built a 3-0 lead through three innings. Lakewood rallied to tie things up in the fifth, but the Lancers answered right back with two runs in the bottom of the fifth in a 53 victory. Hilley took the loss, but allowed just five hits and three walks. Only three of the runs against her were earned. She struck out three. Campeau had a double and a single as a part of the Vikings’ five-hit attack. Both teams had five hits, but Lakewood was hurt by three errors. Curtis drove in two runs for Lakewood. The Vikings returned to Capital Area Activities Conference White Division action Monday, and fell 5-4 to visiting Williamston as the Hornets came back from a 4-2 deficit with a run in the top of the sixth and then two in the top of the seventh. Hilley was hit with the loss, giving up nine hits and three walks in the complete game effort. She struck out three and again only three of the runs were earned. Lakewood had eight hits, to the Hornets’ nine. Tingley and Taylor Vantland had two hits each. Tingley had a double, as did Derrica Desgranges and Salazar. Vantland and Salazar each had an RBI. The Vikings are now 2-1 in the league. Lakewood second baseman Tiffani Ackerson scoops up a ground ball during the top of the second inning of her team’s contest with St. Joseph Saturday at the Wayland Invitational. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Spartans rally against Saxons, win Wooden Bat Hastings had two big innings in the opener of the 17th Annual Wooden Bat Classic at Johnson Field in Hastings, but couldn’t hold on against Battle Creek Lakeview. Lakeview topped the Saxons 12-10, coming back from an early 7-1 deficit, then topped Holt 2-1 to earn the day’s championship. Hastings fell 10-1 to Holt in its final game of the day. Hastings scored seven times in the bottom of the first inning, to lead 7-1 against the Spartans, but Lakeview chipped away at the lead throughout the morning. Lakeview added two runs in the second, three in the third, and eventually tied the game at 7-7 in the top of the fourth inning. Saxon head coach Marsh Evans said that his team had chances to add to the lead throughout, but was unable to cash in. The Saxons finally did add to their run total again, in the bottom of the fourth, to go up 107. The Spartans however put together a fourrun fifth inning, then tacked on an insurance run in the top of the sixth. Jon French and Tyler Stolicker led the Hastings’ Ethan Mahmat puts his wooden bat on the ball during Saturday’s contest against Holt at the Saxons annual Wooden Bat Tournament. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Hastings offense. They each had a double and a single. Keith Garber drove in three runs for the Saxons, and Jake Swartz and Nicholas Replogle had one RBI each. Swartz, Replogle, Mitch Kolanowski and Garber each singled once with the wooden bats in the opener. The Saxons had the early lead again in their second game, although not nearly as large of a lead and it didn’t last nearly as long. The Saxons went up 1-0 on an RBI single by Travis Sixberry in the top of the fourth, but the Rams responded with two runs in the bottom of the fourth. Holt then broke the game open with five runs int eh fifth and three in the sixth. Michael Eastman and Swartz had two hits each for the Saxons in the loss. Mac Clisso took the loss on the mound for Hastings, in his first varsity appearance. Evans said he pitched well. He scattered five hits, while striking out three in his four innings. The two losses pushed the Saxon losing streak to six games. They fell in all three of their contests with South Christian last week. The Sailors won the two games in Hastings 93 and 3-0 Tuesday (May 1). The Sailors closed out the three-game set with a 13-3 win over the Saxons at the South Christian Sports Park Thursday. South Christian erased a 1-0 Saxon lead with an eight-run fourth inning. Kolanowski, Brandon Redman, Stolicker, Eastman, Replogle and David Pierce all had one hit for the Saxons. Redman singled in the top of the first, then a Sailor error and a walk loaded the bases for Sixberry, who was hit by a pitch to drive in the first run of the game. A strike out and a ground out ended the Saxons’ bases loaded threat though. South Christian erased that deficit with three runs in the bottom of the first. The Saxons tacked on their final two runs in the fifth. Stolicker doubled, and came home on an RBI single from Replogle. A passed ball would allow the last Saxon run to score. South Christian answered those two runs with two of its own in the bottom of the fifth. The Saxons’ Michael Eastman slides safely into third base during his team’s 10-1 loss to Holt in the final game of Saturday’s Wooden Bat Tournament in Hastings. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Forest Hills Eastern track teams score wins in Hastings Forest Hills Eastern showed why it has two of the best track and field teams in the O-K Gold Conference in Hastings Tuesday. The Hawk girls’ team finished off a perfect 7-0 season of O-K Gold Conference duals with a 92-45 win over the Saxons. The FHE boys improved to 6-1 in the league by topping the Saxons 84-53. Trista Straube won a pair of distance races for the Saxons, against a traditionally strong distance program. She took the 1600-meter run in 5 minutes 28.88 seconds, then later led a Saxon sweep of the 3200-meter run by winning in 12:28.87. Amanda Sarhatt was second in the 3200 and Abby Laubaugh third. Hastings also had Nichole Redman win the 300-meter low hurdles in 48.89 seconds, and Rachel Quillen win the high jump by clearing 4-10. Teammate Katy Garber was second in the high jump, also clearing 4-10. “They are very talented,” said Saxon head coach Brian Teed. “Currently, they are ranked No. 2 in the MITCA Power Rankings, and we are ranked No. 11.” Forest Hills Eastern had nine different girls win nine individual events, and added victories in all four of the relay races. The Hastings girls end the league duals with a 4-3 record, while the boys were 2-5 in the O-K Gold this spring. Forest Hills Eastern will host the O-K Gold Conference Championship Saturday in Ada. Lakewood ladies fall in first games on new field at LHS Lakewood’s varsity girls’ soccer team is in the middle of a tough stretch. After a 4-1-1 start, they’ve lost three in a row including its first two Capital Area Activities Conference White Division contests of the season. The Vikings fell 8-0 to Williamston in league action Tuesday (May 1), then had to turn right around and take on Charlotte Wednesday at Lakewood High School. “Playing Williamston one day, then playing Charlotte with no rest makes for a hard game,” said Lakewood head coach Paul Gonzales after his team’s 3-2 loss. Still, the Vikings played well. They outshot the Orioles 10-5 in the first half, and 17-13 for the game overall. “Trouble is, we didn’t have luck on our side,” Gonzales said. The Orioles got the first goal of the contest, with just less than nine minutes left before the break, on a shot that deflected off a Viking defender and in. The Vikings did answer quickly before the break though, with Isabel Salgado assisting teammate Shannon Morse. Salgado sent a pass forward, which Morse collected behind the Oriole defense and fired into the net. Charlotte tacked on two more second half goals, including one on a PK in the first ten minutes. Morse would score again with about 15 minutes left in the game, off an assist from Kelsey Brown. “We added more offensive help up front and pounded their defense, but could not get close enough for a goal,” Gonzales said. Morse had another good charge at the Oriole net with about six minutes left to play, but was upended in a play that resulted in a yellow card for Charlotte. “Danielle Kosten had a great game (in goal) and made 10 saves,” said Gonzales. “Shannon Morse probably had her best game of the year. Nellie Tait had many really nice Call 945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads passes. Our stoppers were super and the rest of the defense was great. Take away the two miscues and we win this game. “ Lakewood’s contest at Perry Thursday was postponed, as was the one against Portland Tuesday. The Vikings are scheduled to take on Lansing Eastern Thursday and Corunna Friday. Saxons second to South at jamboree hosted by Wayland Hastings had its best finish of the O-K Gold Conference season Monday, as the league got together at Orchard Hills. The Saxons beat Catholic Central on the tie-breaker to finish second to South Christian. The Sailors finished the day with a 149, followed by Hastings 155, Catholic Central 155, Forest Hills Eastern 160, Caledonia 160, Wayland 177 and Thornapple Kellogg 182. Danny Buehler led Hastings with a 37. Logan Barrett and Fredrik Isgard each shot a 39 for the Saxons, while Aaron Williams chipped in a 40. The Saxons’ other two scores were a 42 from Taylor Klotz and a 44 from Dylan Thurman. The league jamboree at Hastings Country Club was rained-out Thursday, and will be finished May 15. The skies were clear enough at Railside Golf Club Wednesday for South Christian to win another conference jamboree though. The Sailors fired a 150, to beat secondplace Catholic Central by seven strokes. Behind the Cougars’ 157, Hastings shot a 163, Forest Hills Eastern 168, Caledonia 168, Wayland 181, Thornapple Kellogg 183 and Ottawa Hills NTS. The Sailors and Cougars both had three guys in the 30s. Blake DeVries led South Christian with the day’s low round, a 35. His team also got a 36 from Ben Elenbaas, a 38 from Josh Riemersma, and 41s from Ben Cook and Kade Hoeksema. Catholic Central was led by a 38 from Donald Sund and 39s from Luke Headley and R.J. Routzahn. The Cougars’ fourth score was a 41 by Spencer Wierda. Hastings’ Isgard was also under 40, with a 39. The Saxons also got a 40 from Buehler, and 42s from Klotz and Barrett. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 10, 2012 — Page 17 TK rallies in game two to sweep two from Scots by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Trojans finished their come-frombehind rally. The Fighting Scots couldn’t. Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity baseball team improved to 7-7 in the O-K Gold Conference and 10-9 overall by sweeping its doubleheader in Caledonia Tuesday. Caledonia had the bases loaded with the tying run a the plate and one out in the bottom of the seventh inning, but managed just one more run in an 8-5 Trojan victory to start the afternoon. TK then took the nightcap 12-10 with a five-run rally in the top of the sixth inning that put it up 11-10 at the time. “This team is gutty,” said TK head coach Jack Hobert. “They scratch, they claw, they never give up. We proved it tonight. Down 10-4, two here, two there, three, three and then bomb we took the lead.” Four hit batters, a wild pitch, a misplay in the outfield that turned into a double, and a two-run single by the Trojans’ Dalton Phillips combined to help TK score five runs and take an 11-10 lead in the top of the sixth inning of game two. TK then tacked on an insurance run in the top of the seventh, with Cody Ybema coming home after a lead-off double. The Fighting Scots got a three-run home run from Heath Hoogerhyde in the bottom of the first inning, then tacked on another run in the first, two runs in the second and four more in the third. They led 10-4 after three, as TK scored once in the top of the first and three times in the top of the second. The Trojans then added two runs in the fourth to make it 10-6. “I’ve seen stuff in our kids now,” Hobert said. “We’re not panicking. It’s really nice to see. They understand what I’ve been preaching for the past 10 weeks or however long we’ve been playing.” “They’re talking it up in the dug-out. They’re supportive of their teammates at the The Trojans’ Garrett Harris rounds third and heads for home during the top of the sixth inning of game two in Caledonia Tuesday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) plate. If something goes wrong with one of their teammates, they go over and they pick him up. That’s maturity.” Ybema, Garrett Harris and Dylan VanPutten had two hits each for TK. Harris and Ybema both had a double and a single and scored twice each. Brendon Hudson, Caden Francisco and Alex Roy also scored twice for TK. Phillips earned the win, going the full seven innings for TK. He struck out seven while giving up five hits and walking two. “What a gutsy performance by my freshman,” Hobert said of Phillips at the start of the bottom of the seventh inning. “’I want the ball. I want the ball,’ he says. I’m hesitant. He’s at 105 pitches. ‘I want the ball.’ And that’s what I want. That’s awesome.” TK also got a great pitching performance in the opener, from sophomore Harris. He struck out five and gave up six hits in his six innings on the mound. He didn’t walk a batter and allowed just two earned runs, in the bottom of the third inning. The Trojans led 8-2 when he left the mound after six innings. The Fighting Scots got a lead-off double to start the seventh, then an error, two hit batters and a walk made things interesting. TK had eight hits in the opener, all of them singles. Nate Iveson had two, and scored two runs. Caden Francisco had two singles as well. TK had four-run rallies in the top of the fourth and the top of the sixth. The Trojans close out their set with the Fighting Scots in Middleville Thursday. Thornapple Kellogg’s Dalton Phillips pitches during the bottom of the fourth inning of game two against Caledonia Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Scots stay in hunt for Gold title by beating Trojans They’ve just got to keep plugging away and keep doing it. They will be happy with it.” TK is now 4-6 in the league. The Trojans have a busy week, and Polmanteer and Aspinall are the only healthy pitchers the team has at the moment. TK will be at home against NorthPointe Christian for two Thursday, at home against Forest Hills Central Friday, then will head to the Kelloggsville Invitational Saturday. Delton golf beats Hopkins by 29 strokes Thornapple Kellogg shortstop Paige Lajcak fires towards first for an out during the top of the fourth inning of game two at Caledonia Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Austin had two triples and three RBI. Miller had a double as apart of her three-hit performance. The Scots got two great pitching performances. Whitney Denton gave up just one earned run in her five innings, allowing five hits and four walks. She struck out two. Morgan VanPutten paced the Trojan attack, with a single and a double off of Denton. Lauren Bailey also reached base twice, with a walk and a single, and scored both Trojan runs. Alexis Aspinall was hit with the loss for DK girls start KVA tourney at home Monday evening Delton’s winning-streak is at double digits. Delton Kellogg’s varsity girls’ soccer team improved to 11-1 on the season, running its current winning-streak to ten games, by scoring a 4-2 win at Allegan Friday evening. Four different players scored for Delton Kellogg in the win. It took the Panthers a bit of time to get going. Tabitha Nguyen finally got the scoring started, midway through the first half, finishing off an assist by Aryka Poling. Delton then added two more goals in the next 15 and a half minutes, with Brianna Russell scoring once and also assisting on a goal by Alea Hammond. The Tigers got on the scoreboard with a goal in the final minute of the first half. Poling then scored a goal of her own, with just over 14 minutes left in the second half that put her team up 4-1. Allegan answered ten minutes later to close out the scoring. Carlye Hammond made five saves for Delton Kellogg in the win. Delton scored a 6-0 Kalamazoo Valley Association victory over visiting Olivet Wednesday. Russell had two goals and an assist, and Jaime Risner had two assists and a goal for the Panthers. That pair accounted for all three Delton goals in the first half, with assists going to Risner, Hannah Phommavongsa, Sarah Rendon and Autumn Russell in the first half. Tabitha Nguyen, Rachel Parker and Poling scored the goals in the second half for the Panthers, with Risner, Russell and Riley Smith earning assists. Hammond made one save in her time in net for Delton, and Ines Romero closed out the game with three saves. Olivet’s Sloane Davis made 17 saves at the other end of the field. The Panthers are 4-1 in the league. Delton Kellogg was scheduled to close out the KVA regular season at home against Parchment Wednesday. Delton will host Hastings Friday, then will host a first round game in the KVA Tournament Monday evening. TK. Morgan Swift pitched the Scots to the win in the opener, striking out 11 while allowing six hits. She didn’t walk a batter. Caledonia scored all four of its runs in the bottom of the fourth inning, getting a two-run triple from Burleson and singles from Austin, Denton and Ali Tegg in the rally. TK pitcher Polmanteer only allowed seven hits all game. She walked one and struck out two. Denton had a single and a double to lead the Caledonia attack, while Swift had a pair of BOWLING SCORES Mixed Madness Slow Rollers...........................................6-2 Gods Squad ............................................6-1 3 + 1 .......................................................5-3 Pocket Snipers .......................................5-2 Hot Streaks.............................................5-2 Team Ramrod.........................................4-0 Knockers Up ..........................................3-5 Purple Pin Eaters ...................................3-5 The Steelers ...........................................0-8 Unearned ...................................................3 High Men’s Games - A. Palacois 200; L. McConnell 200; S. Kellay 193; M. Covey 184; C. Dale 180; J. Carnell 180. High Men’s Series - S. Kellay 557; M. Covey 515; A. Palacios 507; C. Dale 506; L. McConnell 489; J. Wilson 489. High Women’s Games - N. Main 169; J. Munn 164; D. McConnell 163; R. Casler 159; L. Frederick 157; J. Carnell 157. High Women’s Series - N. Main 449; L. Frederick 445; R. Casler 445; T. Stevens 429; J. Carnell 423. Trojan first baseman Sandra Gerou reaches up to haul in a pop-up during the bottom of the fifth inning of game one against Caledonia Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) singles. The Trojans got their only run in the top of the second. Paige Lajcak was hit by a pitch to lead-off the inning. She moved to third on a double by Sandra Gerou, and came home on a ground out off the bat of Kim Hodges. “We’re a young team, and they’re trying to find that confidence,” Saldivar said. “That’s been our downfall at the moment, getting that confidence sustained up. They’re trying really, really hard. They’re busting their butt and giving everything they can. It’s easy for them to get down on that, because they want results. You can’t get results automatically. Delton Kellogg’s varsity boys’ golf teams picked up a couple of wins to close out last week’s action. The Panthers scored a 167-196 win over Hopkins at Hidden Valley Golf Course Friday afternoon. Mitchell Wandell led Delton on the day with a one-over-par 36. The Panthers also got a 40 from Zack Simon, a 43 from Conner Worm and a 48 from Adam Farrah. Hopkins was led by Coleton Billings’ 45, and a 46 from Clayton Billings. Delton Kellogg went 1-1 at the Kalamazoo Valley Association Tri hosted by Schoolcraft at Olde Mill Golf Course Thursday. The host Eagles had four guys at 45 or better, to take first on the day with a total score of 171. Delton Kellogg fired a 189 and Parchment shot a 205. Wandell led Delton with a 43, while Simon added a 47, Anthony Houtrow a 49 and Worm a 50. Schoolcraft had the day’s two best scores, a 40 from Max Bales and a 42 from Jeffery Scott. The Eagles also got a 44 from Tom Hurst and a 45 from Austin Crandle. Austin Cox led Parchment with a 50. SAXON WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE Complete online schedule at: www.hassk12.org THURSDAY, MAY 10 TUESDAY, MAY 15 3:45 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:30 PM 4:30 PM Boys Boys Boys Boys Girls Girls Girls Girls Varsity Varsity Fresh. MS Fresh. MS Varsity JV Golf Baseball Baseball Track Softball Track Tennis Tennis Thornapple-Kellogg HS Ottawa Hills HS Allendale HS DH Newhall Middle Allendale HS DH Newhall Middle Kenowa Hills HS Kenowa Hills HS A H A H A H A A Golf Baseball Softball Soccer Soccer Lakeview Invite Harper Crk Comm HS DH Harper Crk Comm HS DH Delton Kellogg HS Delton Kellogg HS A H H A A FRIDAY, MAY 11 9:00 AM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 5:00 PM 6:30 PM Boys Boys Girls Girls Girls Varsity JV JV JV Varsity Boys Girls Boys Girls Girls Boys Varsity Varsity Varsity Varsity Varsity Varsity Track Track Golf Softball Tennis Baseball Conference @ FHE A Conference @ FHE A Pennfield Invite A DKHS Delton Invitational A Conf Meet @ SC and Cal A Comstock HS DH H MONDAY, MAY 14 3:45 PM 4:00 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 5:30 PM Boys Girls Boys Boys Girls Girls JV JV Fresh. MS MS Varsity Boys Girls Boys Boys Girls Girls Girls Girls Varsity JV Varsity JV Varsity JV Fresh. Varsity Golf Tennis Baseball Baseball Softball Softball Softball Tennis Hastings High School Pennfield HS Wayland Union HS Wayland Union HS DH Wayland Union HS DH Wayland Union HS DH Grand Ledge HS DH Pennfield HS A A H A H A A H WEDNESDAY, MAY 16 SATURDAY, MAY 12 TBA TBA 9:00 AM 9:00 AM 9:00 AM 9:30 AM 3:45 PM 4:00 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:30 PM Golf Soccer Baseball Track Track Soccer Wayland Union HS A Harper Crk Comm HS H Thorn. Kellogg HS DH H Gold Conf Meet @ Hastings H Gold Conf Meet @ Hastings H Harper Crk Comm HS H Times and dates subject to change HASTINGS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS Contact Nancy 945-2742 or hastingsathleticboosters@gmail.com to sponsor the schedule 3:45 PM Boys JV 4:15 PM Boys Fresh. Golf Baseball GR Catholic Central H GR Catholic Central DH A THURSDAY, MAY 17 TBA TBA TBA 3:45 PM 4:00 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM Girls Girls Girls Boys Girls Boys Boys Boys Girls Girls Varsity Varsity JV Varsity Varsity Varsity JV Fresh. JV Fresh. Soccer Tennis Soccer Golf Softball Baseball Baseball Baseball Softball Softball Conf Tournament-TBA Regionals TBA Conf Tournament-TBA Hastings HS Hastings Inv Pennfield HS DH Wayland Union HS Pennfield HS DH Pennfield HS DH Pennfield HS DH Jenison Hs DH H A H H A A H A H A Thanks to This Week’s Sponsor: Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, P.C. “Quality Care with Compassion” 840 Cook Rd. Hastings, MI 49058 Phone: 269-945-9520 Toll Free: 800-596-1005 Contact us on the web @ www.hoc-mi.com 77567570 by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Caledonia’s varsity softball team swept its O-K Gold Conference doubleheader with visiting Thornapple Kellogg, then got set to do some scoreboard watching. The Fighting Scots improved to 8-2 in the conference with the two wins over the Trojans, with Forest Hills Eastern and Wayland left on the conference slate. The Scots only two league losses came against South Christian. The Scots would likely need a Wayland sweep of the Sailors, and then two wins over the Wildcats of their own, to earn a share of the conference crown. “I told my team for us to stay in the hunt we’ve got to win these two games,” said Fighting Scot head coach Tom Kaechele. “For us to have any chance of going after the championship, whether its a CO-championship or a Tri-championship or whatever. We’ve got to take care of business early. I was really concerned about this game, because I know they always come out and play us well. The second game I felt we were more ready. We started hitting the ball better and getting a little confidence in ourselves, and played the way I know we can play.” Caledonia topped Thornapple Kellogg 4-1 in the opener Tuesday, then knocked off the Trojans 14-2 in five innings in game two. “We’ve just got to keep building confidence,” said Thornapple Kellogg head coach Andy Saldivar. “We had opportunities in the first game and didn’t come through with it. In the second game, Caledonia just really hit the ball.” The Fighting Scots pounded out 16 hits in the game two victory, scoring three runs in the top of the first, three more in the second, six in the fourth and then two more in the fifth. Ashley Miller, Sarah Austin, Kim Burleson and Karleigh Hoekstra had three hits each in the game two win for Caledonia. Hoekstra blasted a two-run home run over the center field fence for her team’s final two runs. She also had a double to welcome Trojan reliever Liz Polmanteer in the six-run fourth inning, and finished with four RBI. �Page 18 — Thursday, May 10, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Delton track has two very good days at Pennfield The Delton Kellogg varsity boys’ track and field team finished off another 5-0 season in Kalamazoo Valley Association duals Tuesday, by scoring an 85-52 victory at Pennfield. There’s still work for the Delton Kellogg boys to do as they look to defend their KVA crown from a year ago. The Panthers will face the four KVA teams it hasn’t beaten, Maple Valley, Parchment, Hackett Catholic Central and Constantine at Maple Valley High School Tuesday. The entire league will then get together for the league meet in Delton May 22. Delton Kellogg’s girls improved to 3-2 in the league with their 98-27 over the Pennfield girls. The Delton boys swept four events Tuesday, and in only three of the 14 individual events did Delton not have at least two of the three scorers. Delton capped off its victory by sweeping the 3200-meter run. Zach Haas took the race in 11 minutes 21.24 seconds. Billy Schut was second in 11:37.21 and Jarryd Calhoun third in 11:40.46. Delton Kellogg’s boys also swept the 110meter high hurdles, the long jump and the high jump. Brandon Robbins won the 110meter hurdles in 15.74 seconds, with Mike Bassett edging teammate Calhoun by a hundredth of a second 15.96 to 15.97. Ryan Watson scored in the two jumps, taking the high jump at 5 feet 10 inches and placing second in the long jump at 17-5. Conner Wolschleger won the long jump at 18-8, while teammate Robby Brindley was third in the event at 16-4. Schut was second in the high jump at 5-6, with Bassett third, also clearing 5-6. Delton started the day on the track with the team of Lucas Hansen, Haas, Tyler Dempsey and Brock Mueller winning the 3200-meter relay in 9:48.06. The team of Wolschleger, Brindley, James and Robbins won the 800meter relay in 1:34.53. Haas was a part of three wins for Delton, also taking the 1600-meter run in 5:02.96. Robbins swept the hurdles, taking the 300meter race in 42.48. Delton also had Dempsey win the 400 in 544.78. Brian Dregne and Marquis Gray were both a part of three wins for Pennfield. Dregne cleared 12-0 in the pole vault and won the 800-meter run in 2:02.92. Gray took the 100meter dash in 11.16 and the 200 in 23.24. The two teamed with Jared Purcell and Nathan Fishnick to win the 400-meter relay in 46.06. Pennfield also had Josh Nicholiason win the shot put at 40-.75 and the discus with a mark of 121-0. Delton Kellogg’s girls won 16 of the 17 events in Battle Creek Tuesday. Mallory Sewell, Katie Hayward, Andrea Polley and Jolene Drum won two each for Delton. Sewell took the throws, winning the discus at 58-6 and the shot put at 29-1.25. Polley won the hurdles, the 110-meter hurdles in which no time was available and the 300meter low hurdles in 49.20. Drum took the middle distance races, the 800-meter run in 2:42.01 and the 1600 in 6:22.21. Hayward won the long jump at 13-2 and the 100-meter dash in 13.5. Polley, Hayward and Drum were all a part of four wins. Polley and Drum teamed with Nicole Thompson and Alicia Lindsey to win the 1600-meter relay in 5:05.78. Drum, Marcie Stevens, Sammi Cleary and Daniels won the 3200-meter relay in 11:42.02. Polley teamed with Lindsey, Thompson and Hayward to win the 800-meter relay in 2:02.34. Delton also had Thompson, Lindsey, Hayward and Morgen Leonard win the 400meter relay in 57.18. Cleary and Stevens took the other two races for Delton, with Cleary winning the 400 in 1:07.27 and Stevens the 3200 in 14:06.24. Delton’s Faith Ferris tied Pennfield’s Jill Traxler for first in the high jump, as both cleared 4-0. Carol Osenbaugh won the 200-meter dash for Pennfield in 28.87. Delton Kellogg’s boys were first and the girls’ second at Friday’s Pennfield Lions Relays. The two Delton teams teamed up for a win in the Co-Ed Shuttle Hurdles, with Schut, Polley, Robbins and Leonard finishing in 1:09.92. There were 14 events Friday, and that was one of just three that the Lakewood girls team didn’t win as it took the day’s girls’ Lakewood’s Ellie Reynolds (left) and Delton Kellogg’s Andrea Polley hit the first hurdle at the start of the Co-Ed Shuttle Hurdles during Friday afternoon’s Pennfield Lions Relays in Battle Creek. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Delton Kellogg’s Adam May (left) beats out Lakewood’s Joey Endres at the finish line to finish fourth in the 400-meter relay Friday at the Pennfield Lions Relays. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Delton had the team of Calhoun, Haas, championship. The Viking boys and girls Dempsey and Watson win the 3200-meter were second in the shuttle hurdles. Delton Kellogg’s boys finished the day relay in 8:51.40. Lucas Hansen, Cole Mabie, with 96 points, ahead of Lakewood 76, Austin Tamaz and Gary Egelkraut won the Allegan 66, Parchment 64, Galesburg- Frost 400-meter relay, and the team of Wolschleger, Franklin James, Bassett and Augusta 54 and Pennfield 52. The shuttle hurdles was one of six events Adam May won the 800-meter relay. Haas, Robbins, Scott Collier and Watson took the that the Delton boys won. middle distance relay. In the field the lone win for Delton Kellogg came in the pole vault, with Brady Mills and Kenny Coates teaming for a height of 21-0. Lakewood’s boys took three events, all three in the field. Nate Kauffman and Michael Carr won the high jump by clearing 11-0 total, with Delton second in that event. The Vikings also had the team of Lars Pyrzinski and Kyle Kneale win the shot put at 78-.5 and the team of Nick Payne and Kneale win the discus at 226-5. Lakewood’s girls also had field day. The Vikings won all five field events, and six races on the track to finish with 130 points. Delton Kellogg was second with 80, followed by Parchment 64, Allegan 56, GalesburgAugusta 46 and Pennfield 34. Lakewood had the team of Tessa Hergenrader and Madi King win the long jump at 29-6. Hannah DeJong was a part of three wins in the field, teaming with Ashley Jemison to win the high jump at 9-8, with Madison McLean to win the pole vault at 146, and with Jemison again in the shot put for a total distance of 59-8. Jemison and Monica Davis took the discus at 190-11. Lakewood had the 3200-meter relay team of Alexis Kosten, Betsy Reynolds , Lindsey Tooker and King win in 10:33.69. Mycah Ridder, Ellie Reynolds, Hergenrader and McLean won the Sprint Meldey Relay in 1:55.09. The team of Jacqueline O’Gorman, Millie Potter, Stevie Sutton and Betsy Reynolds won the Frosh 400 in 55.39. in the regular 400-meter relay, the team of Ellie Reynolds, McLean, Kosten and Ridder took first in 52.02. Lakewood also had the team of Hergenrader, Cassidy Curtis, Tooker and Reynolds win the 800-meter relay, and the team of McLean, Ellie Reynolds, O’Gorman and Ridder take the 1600-meter relay. Hackett Catholic Central wins both contests with Delton boys 77567705 Senior Billy Schut helps the Panther teams to a victory in the Co-Ed Shuttle Hurdles at Friday afternoon’s Pennfield Lions Relays. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Delton Kellogg’s varsity baseball team put together one of its best offensive rallies as of late and got a couple solid pitching performances, but neither was enough in Kalamazoo Friday. Hackett Catholic Central swept its Kalamazoo Valley Association doubleheader with the visiting Panthers, taking game on 72 and game two 11-4. “We lost both games, but overall held our own pretty well,” said Delton Kellogg head coach Bill Humphrey. “Jesse Brown always has a well-coached team that plays smart baseball. They definitely make you earn everything you get.” Hackett ace Brent Yelton stuck out nine, walked one and allowed just six Delton Kellogg hits in his complete-game effort in the opener. “He is a very crafty left-hander, who moves the ball around and changes speeds with the best of them,” said Humphrey. Delton got a good pitching performance of its own, from sophomore TJ Wooden who was making his first varsity start. He gave up two runs in his four innings of work, while striking out seven. The Fighting Irish broke open the game with three runs in the fifth and two more in the sixth. The fifth-inning rally included a lead-off walk, and then four straight two-out singles. The Irish finished the contest with ten hits. Logan Durbin was hit with the loss in relief. The Panther offense was keyed by Jared Buckland who had two singles and an RBI. Zach Eib had a double, and Nick Brindley, Jacob Morgan and Zach Meyers had singles. Meyers had one RBI. Hackett scored three runs in the top of the first and three in the top of the second to take control of game two, which was called after six innings due to darkness. Delton Kellogg did get as close as 7-4 by scoring three runs in the bottom of the fifth. “It had been a while since we scored multiple runs in an inning,” said Humphrey. Durbin had two singles in the game for Delton. Wooden had a double, and Brindley, Alex Lepird, Ryan Hook, Eib, Meyers, Morgan and Zach Young had singles. Meyers finished with two RBI and Eib one. Ben Wheaton got the win for Hackett, striking out seven in his six-innings on the mound. Jared Buckland, the first of three Delton pitchers, took the loss. Nick Aukerman was scoreless in his two relief appearances on the day. Delton Kellogg is now 3-13 overall and 39 in the KVA. The Panthers’ doubleheader with Hopkins, which was scheduled for Monday, was postponed. Delton was slated to return to league action at Parchment Wednesday, and will take the field again Saturday at its own wooden bat invitational. The Panthers take on Kelloggsville at 9 a.m. to start the day. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-05-17.pdf 55cb27ae07f024ca41edd47be70dc7a9 PDF Text Text Local post offices may see reduced hours Sales tax should be applied fairly Hastings’ Thurman ties for lead at golf jamboree See Story on Page 14 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 18 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 20 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, May 17, 2012 August primary elections promise to be intriguing NEWS BRIEFS Sweet Grass performs tonight Sweet Grass, a local bluegrass and country-influenced group, will be featured in the Community Music Showcase which will start at 6:45 p.m. tonight, Thursday, May 17, at Thomas Jefferson Hall, 328 S. Jefferson St., Hastings. Two members of the group, Tom Freridge and Jim Metzger, played with the Thornapple River Boys for several years. The showcase features area bands in a free concert the first and third Thursday of each month. Coming to the showcase in June will be Brushridge June 7 and Jeff Speas June 21. Retirement reception will honor Hastings school employees The Hastings Board of Education is inviting the public to attend a reception honoring staff members who retired earlier this school year or who will be leaving the district at the end of the school year. The reception is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. Monday, May 21, in the multi-purpose room of Hastings Middle School, 232 W. Grand St. A presentation of certificates honoring those who are retiring will begin at 7 p.m. Retirees who will be honored include teachers Julie Ackerson, Joan BosserdSchroeder, Kim Evans, Susan Fecko, Patricia “Lynn” Fleischer-Gibson, Janet Foley, Wendy Frame, Dolores Garland, Alice Gergen, Patricia LaJoye, Deborah Mepham, Kim O’Mara, Geraldine Pyles and Karl Schwartz; day care teacher Karen Whitney; custodians Robbin Bates, Donald Converse, Stephen Gibson, Frank Huss and Marcia Sherman: maintenance employee Robert Kruko; food service employee Cheryl Boyd; and transportation employees Frederick Hayes and Lucy Miller. A welcome for new Hastings Area Schools superintendent Todd Geerlings will begin at 6:45 p.m. Community invited to Charlton Park Day Saturday Barry County residents are invited to attend the sixth annual Charlton Park Day Saturday, May 19, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. This fun-filled day is planned in tribute to the founder of the park, the late Irving Delos Charlton, and marks the official start of the summer event season with extended daily and weekend hours. Due to support from many local businesses, sponsors and volunteers, this family event is free to everyone. Free hot dogs, chips, popcorn and drinks will be provided in limited quantities. Visitors may tour the many historic buildings and enjoy treats at different locations, play games on the village green and watch roping demonstrations by Cowboy Tom. A local country music group, Nighthawk, will be performing throughout the day, and tram rides, a bounce house, face painting and other activities in and around the village are planned. For more information, go to the website www.charltonpark.org or call 269-9453775. See NEWS BRIEFS, continued on page 2 by David DeDecker Staff Writer The Aug. 7 primary is three months away, but it promises to have some interesting races on both county and township levels. Candidates were required by law to register with the county or township clerk by Tuesday at 5 p.m. However, township clerks are not required to report registered candidates to the county until May 21, and candidates have until May 18 to withdraw their names from the ballot. The Banner received candidate names from the Barry County Clerk’s office after registration deadline, but there may be candidates officially registered with townships that do not appear in this article. Barry County Clerk Pam Jarvis reminds citizens these results are still unofficial. Incumbent Barry County Prosecutor Tom Evans is being challenged by fellow Republican Julie Nakfoor Pratt. Current Barry County Register of Deeds Darla Burghdoff will not seek re-election. Vying for her post are Republicans Barbara Hurless, Jake Jelsema and Linda Watson. County officials running unopposed are Republicans Sheriff Dar Leaf, Clerk Pam Jarvis, Treasurer Susan VandeCar, Drain Commissioner Russ Yarger and Surveyor Brian Reynolds. Due to redistricting, county commissioner seats have been reduced from eight to seven. In District 1, incumbent Don Nevins is being challenged by fellow Republican and District 4 Commissioner Howard Gibson, along with former Hastings mayor and city councilman Republican Frank Campbell. Democrat Tom Huis also has filed to run. District 2 Commissioner Dan Parker will not seek reelection, leaving incumbent Republican District 6 Commissioner Craig Stolsonburg to run unopposed for another term on the board. Current District 3 Commissioner Joe Lyons will not run for another term, but instead seeks the Rutland Township supervisor position against long-time incumbent Republican Jim Carr. Seeking the seat of the new District 3 are current District 8 Commissioner Robert Houtman and Joyce Snow, both Republicans, and Democrat Barbara Cichy. The District 4 commission seat is sought by Republicans Dean Bass, Jon Smelker and Curt Cybulski. District 5 Commissioner Ben Geiger is being challenged by newcomer and fellow Republican Steven Pyrzynski for a reconfigured District 5 seat. Seeking the post for the new District 6 are newcomers Vivian Conner, Jim DeYoung and Mark Doster, all Republicans. District 7 Commissioner Jeff VanNortwick is being challenged by fellow Republican James Dull. At the township level, four incumbent supervisors — in Barry, Hope, Orangeville and Rutland townships — are being challenged; five current supervisors — in Baltimore, Irving, Thornapple, Woodland and Yankee Springs townships — are not seeking re-election; and seven incumbent supervisors are uncontested in their bids. In Assyria Township, incumbent Republican Mike Timmons is running unopposed for supervisor. Incumbent Clerk Deborah Massimino is being challenged by See PRIMARY, page 14 Hastings schools scramble to cover $350,000 shortfall by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Despite a memo from Barry Intermediate School District Superintendent Jeff Jennette, dated June 21, 2011, warning the Hastings Area School district of the reduction in revenue, the Hastings Board of Education is now scrambling to amend its budget and find a way to cover a $350,00 shortfall in revenue form the BISD. In the 2011 letter addressed to then Hastings Area Schools Superintendent Rich Satterlee, Jennette said he wanted to make it clear that payout reductions were known and approved by the ISD board last June and local districts were notified. He said there have been no mid-year reductions. Jennette wrote, “I am disappointed to inform you that our reimbursement for special education expenditures for the 2010-11 school year has decreased. Unfortunately, we are forecasting even less reimbursement next year due to decreasing property values.” Tuesday, in an email response to an inquiry from the Banner, Jennette explained, “Barry ISD flows through special ed money to the [local schools] in a variety of accounts, and these dollars vary from year to year in each category ... Some of these accounts vary due to federal dollars (i.e., ARRA was a two-year grant and the districts chose to spend the dollars differently), but Section 52 dollars are BISD dollars that we can manipulate the payout to the locals. Unfortunately, due to the decrease in property values and other factors, these dollars are fewer than past years. “We believe in supporting the locals as much as we can, but we must also remember that we are a separate entity and need to preserve our budget, too,” he wrote. “So, when we created this year’s 2011-12 budget, we knew that we would be reducing these dollars, and you can see we told the districts in the attached memo. Hastings also should have known that they would not be receiving the ARRA dollars ($100,608 last year) this year due to the end of that grant. Even though many individuals received this memo, no one called BISD to find out what we budgeted for this year’s payout, which explains their endof-the-year ‘Oops!’’’ Hastings Interim Superintendent Michelle Falcon notified the board during a work session Tuesday evening. “We do not feel that this is something that we can present and vote on Monday,” Falcon told the board. “We have gotten reports from Barry ISD that we are going to have a significant shortfall in special ed funds being paid back to our district through Section 52 in upwards of a shortfall of $360,000. Before we present that in a budget amendment, we really want to make sure we have those numbers more firm.” The board has until June 30 to pass a balanced budget for the 2012-13 school year. Falcon said she had conversations with BISD Business Manager Cindy Larkin and Jennette, she learned that more reimbursements of approximately $95,000 may be available through Medicaid. “As [the ISD] is finishing their May budget amendment, there may be some more flow-through dollars for special education through Section 52 that they can reimburse,” she said. In his email, Jennette wrote, “I have told both boards ([Delton Kellogg] and Hastings) that we are currently amending our budget and if we have some extra dollars to distribute, the BISD board is committed to that; we should know those numbers within three weeks. Can I guarantee $360,000 to Hastings? Absolutely not, but we know that anything that we can give them will help.” During its regular meeting slated for 7:30 p.m. Monday, May 21, the Hastings Board of Education is expected to approve the appointment of Tom Tebo as interim finance director for three months, replacing Barbara Hunt, who resigned April 27. Tebo, a certified public accountant and the retired finance director of Williamston Public Schools, currently oversees the finance books of 25 charter schools. He will work with the board to prepare budget amendments and monthly financial statements, overseeing the annual end-of-year audit and more. Falcon said financial and budget consultant Don Sovey is wrapping up his work with the district and is expected to make a presentation about the budgeting process to the board Wednesday, May 30. Falcon said the district is behind on the budgeting process due to Hunt’s resignation but is expected to have everything back on schedule by the end of the month. “We are moving this process along as fast as we can,” she said. In other business Tuesday, Falcon informed the board that the district will close on the Pleasantview Elementary property in Dowling Tuesday, May 22. She also reported that the board policy committee has been looking at a formula to recalculate grade point averages. The policy will be presented to the board during Monday’s meeting, along with information on a proposed Facebook policy for the district and policy language regarding layoffs, and recalls and more. TK seventh grader is just a regular kid and on the big screen by Julie Makarewicz Staff Writer Many of Derek Brandon’s Thornapple Kellogg Middle School classmates have no idea of his life on the big screen. They see him mostly as a likable, funny, typical 13year-old seventh grader who runs track, plays basketball and loves just hanging out with friends. But for Brandon, there’s a whole different side to the teen running laps in track or jumping over hurdles. The other side of Brandon sees his name in lights, signs autographs for hours as fans line up to have their picture taken with him, and walks the red carpet with famed actors and actresses. Brandon stars as Mickey Matson in the recently released family action movie “Mickey Matson and the Copperhead Conspiracy.” The movie was recently released at Celebration Cinema North in Grand Rapids and is now playing at Celebration Cinema North, South and Rivertown Crossings. Brandon said it’s still hard to realize it’s all really happening. “This is awesome,” he said Brandon last week, taking pictures as fans lined up after the film showing. Pre-teen girls got autographs on their arms, their shirts, posters and tickets, giggling with excitement after meeting Brandon. The film was everything he had hoped and more, and he said he can’t wait to continue his acting career, possibly in a sequel to the Mickey Matson saga. The recent premier was the first time Brandon saw the fully edited film. “I love it. I love seeing it all come together and I think it’s great. It was awesome,“ he said with a grin that just wouldn’t fade. The movie was filmed in northern Michigan and movie-goers said they liked seeing many familiar landmarks, such as the Manistee lighthouse and Lake Michigan shoreline. This 101-minute movie is a family-friendly adventure film written and directed by Michigan native Harold Cronk, co-founder of 10 West Studios in Manistee. The movie has earned the Dove Family Film series approval. The story follows the struggles of young Mickey Matson as he deals with the death of his Grandpa Jack, played by Christopher Lloyd of “Back to the Future” fame. Teased by his friends and uncertain about himself, Matson had always found comfort with his grandfather. When he thinks his grandfather left him only a Petoskey stone after his death, Matson is confused and hurt until he discovers the stone holds a hidden map leading to adventure. Matson gains confidence while searching for clues from the map and evolves into someone who stands up for what he believes is right and understands what is most important. “Doing the right thing usually isn’t easy,” Matson says remembering lessons from his grandfather. Other cast members include co-star Francesca DeRosa as Sully, a tough-nosed city girl who takes no grief from anyone; Patrika See BIG SCREEN, pg. 2 Thornapple Kellogg seventh grader Derek Brandon enters the movie theater with co-star Francesca DeRosa before last week’s premier. �Page 2 — Thursday, May 17, 2012 — The Hastings Banner BIG SCREEN, continued from page 1 honest and friendly and humble,” said the elder Brandon. “Not everyone gets to do this. He’s living his dream.” Derek Brandon said he thinks he was born to be an actor. Even at an early age, he was jumping up on rocks or logs, pretending they were his stage and forcing his family to reenact scenes with him. “My parents are super supportive. I couldn’t obviously do this without them and all their help. They know this is what I really want,” said Brandon. Derek Brandon and Francesca DeRosa sign autographs before the film begins. Darbo from “Days of Our Lives” as Grams; and Ernie Hudson from “Ghostbusters.” Watching the film brought Brandon’s mom, Shannon, to tears. “It was just so amazing to see him on that big screen. I was really overwhelmed. I can’t even describe it,” she said. His dad, Terry, was equally as proud. “I don’t think it’s really sunk in yet what’s really going on here,” said Terry Brandon. “I’m just in awe of my kid. He’s amazing. Everyone has their own talents, and this is Derek’s. This is what he really wants.” Terry Brandon said he tries to keep his son grounded and true to himself, even as bright lights and fame seem to be calling. “I try to tell him it’s important just to be Shannon Brandon and her younger son, Dylan, await the arrival of Derek Brandon. Derek Brandon, walking with co-star Francesca DeRosa, points to a friend. While he loves acting, for now, Brandon said he also wants a regular teenage life with friends and school. “I just like being with friends and being crazy,” he said. “I don’t want to be treated any differently. I’m just a regular kid.” While his future seems headed to the bright lights of Hollywood, Brandon said he plans to finish school at TK and stay rooted in Middleville. “It would be great to have two homes — one in California for filming and one here where I can just be me. I really want to stay true to who I am.” Actor Christopher Lloyd, who plays grandfather to Middleville’s Derek Brandon, signs autographs. County commission delays animal shelter decision, but not discussion by Doug VanderLaan Editor Barry County commissioners deferred lengthy discussion on a much-anticipated showdown over Animal Control, but their audience at Tuesday’s committee of the whole meeting certainly did not. “I personally have no problem with enforcement,” Mary Fisher, president of the Barry County Humane Society, began in public comments near the end of Tuesday’s meeting. “I do have a problem with the way adoption — or lack thereof — has been handled. “I was part of the Animal Shelter 2000 [fundraising] Committee and we strove to get a new building, but I’m disappointed with the [adoption] numbers — we have a nice building, and we have a nicer euthanasia chamber. “The stonewalling by the present management filters down from the very top. I strongly suggest a different path and that you hire a director. I’m one of many who feel that way and one of many who’d like to be proud of our Animal Control.” Differences over management at Barry Animal Control have simmered for more than two years when the county board first wanted to hire its own director who would report directly to the commission but nixed the idea in response to budget pressures. Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf currently directs the Animal Control Office and openly sparred with Commissioner Robert Houtman weeks ago over a hiring decision that Leaf said he believes was no more than a smokescreen for Houtman’s and the commission’s effort to take Animal Control Office oversight away from him. When Houtman engineered a unanimously approved April 26 commission resolution to prevent Leaf from filling an open position with a full-time hire until Tuesday’s meeting when the larger issue of Animal Control would be discussed, Leaf had promised to be ready. “I’ll see you on May 15,” Leaf vowed, setting up Tuesday’s much-anticipated meeting. “First of all, a new ‘director’ position should be out of the question,” said Leaf in a one-page communication he placed in front of individual commissioners after Tuesday’s meeting began. “In the hard economic times that we are facing, making another layer of government would not be in the best interest of the people that we serve. A director with two employees is top-heavy government.” For his part, Houtman preferred to move that discussion into another arena and at another time, suggesting that County Administrator Michael Brown first research the issue and analyze different management possibilities which could include, according to Houtman, the current structure, cooperation with another county, outside contracting for services and creating a commission-led department. “My proposal is to not have a major discussion but to start an analysis of differences in management structures,” said Houtman. ‘We need perspective from the community so it can be more participatory, and we need to look at the adoption process.” The county board, with the exception of Dan Parker who was absent, unanimously endorsed Houtman’s proposal and agreed to put Brown’s report and another anticipated discussion on the agenda of the June 19 committee of the whole meeting. Subsequent public commenters Tuesday weren’t about to wait until then to voice their opinions — and to alert commissioners that any final decision will not be an easy one. “We knew exactly what we were getting [with the new animal shelter building],” said Barb Cichy of Wall Lake in response to Fisher’s earlier comment. “We knew that it was a humane place for the euthanization of animals if they were not adopted — that is true animal control. “If they [Fisher and Humane Society members] feel that way, they should start their own organization and get a building rather than criticize this organization for trying to do what it’s supposed to: control of animals.” Rebecca Neal, appointed to a one-year term to the Animal Control/Shelter Advisory Board in February, added a similar perspective. “We need to remember that this is Animal Control, it’s not a Humane Society,” Neal told commissioners. To Fisher she commented, “Get your organization together, rescue animals out of the facility, and adopt them.” Leaf’s final comments in his communication echoed the theme. “We are a temporary holding facility, not a rescue,” said Leaf. “I would like to see the county stay out of the adoption business. What we should be doing is getting adoptable animals into the hands of the people who adopt animals.” Leaf’s position paper cited the shelter’s dog euthanasia rate at a “very respectable” 31 percent as compared to the Michigan Humane Society’s 68.5 percent rate. Of 1,500 cats taken in over the past year, most were euthanized for various reasons such as sickness, Leaf said. He warned that moving to become an adoption provider would be costly due to the fees required by the Michigan Department of Agriculture for licensed rescuers. He also rejected the idea of partnering with shelters in other counties. “I am open to other ideas,” Leaf’s paper concluded. “I am also open to that maybe the commissioners of the past got it right.” In other business, the board recommended for approval at its May 22 meeting: • A $4,500 from its Community Development Block Grant fund for roof repair on a CDBG-eligible home on South M43 Highway in Delton. • A realignment in the target area for placement of 50 percent of the county’s CDBG funds to now include the Village of Nashville, the unincorporated community of Delton, and the City of Hastings. The Village of Middleville had been part of the original list but was dropped in favor of more urban settings and because Habitat for Humanity had identified Middleville as its own target area. As clarified by Commission Chair Craig Stolsonburg, Middleville and Freeport — which also was mentioned — would still be eligible for use of the remaining 50 percent of Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, P.C. • Kenneth S. Merriman, M.D. • Eric S. Leep, D.O. • James L. Horton, Jr., D.O. • David J. Heeringa, D.O. • Maria Benit, PA-C • Christopher Born, PA-C Osteoporosis is common, serious, and costly — and it can lead to an increased risk of bone fractures, typically in the wrist, hip, and spine. Often called a silent disease because bone loss occurs without symptoms, people may not know that they have osteoporosis until their bones become so weak that a sudden bump or fall causes a fracture. Please join with Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, PC in continuing to honor women this month by helping to raise awareness of osteoporosis and the importance of prevention and early detection in combating this disease. Did You Know? • About 10 million Americans have osteoporosis, and about 34 million more are at risk. • One out of every 2 women and 1 in 4 men aged 50 and older will have an osteoporosis-related fracture in their lifetime. • Twenty-four percent of hip fracture patients age 50 and older die in the year following their fracture. From left to right: James L. Horton, Jr., D.O., Orthopedic Surgeon; David J. While men and women of all ages and ethnicities can develop osteoporosis, certain risk factors are linked to Heeringa, D.O., Orthopedic Surgeon; Eric S. Leep, D.O., Physical Medicine; Kenneth the development of osteoporosis and contribute to an individual’s likelihood of developing the disease. S. Merriman, M.D., Orthopedic Surgeon. • Gender – Women have a greater chance of developing osteoporosis due to less bone tissue and changes that occur due to menopause. • Ethnicity – Caucasian and Asian women are at highest risk. African American and Hispanic women have lower but significant risk. • Age – Older adults have greater risk of osteoporosis because bones become thinner and weaker with age. • Body size – Small, thin-boned women are at greater risk. • Diet – An inadequate intake of calcium and vitamin D over a lifetime makes an individual more prone to bone loss and contributes to the development of osteoporosis. • Lifestyle – An inactive lifestyle or extended bed rest tends to weaken bones. • Family history – Fracture risk may be due, in part, to heredity. • Smoking – Women who smoke have lower levels of estrogen compared with nonsmokers, often go through menopause earlier, and may also absorb less calcium from their diets. • Medication use – Long-term use of certain medications can lead to loss of bone density and fractures. • Alcohol –Those who drink heavily are more prone to bone loss and fracture, because of poor nutrition and increased risk of falling. People with osteoporosis may have several risk factors, while others who develop the disease may have no known risk factors at all. Osteoporosis is a preventable and treatable disease. Early diagnosis and treatment can reduce or prevent fractures. Medicare and other insurance carriers provide coverage of bone mass measurement for certain eligible beneficiaries. This important benefit can aid in the early detection of osteoporosis before fractures happen, provide a precursor to future fractures, and determine the rate of bone loss. For more information on Hastings Orthopedic Clinic or to learn about all of our services, please visit us online at www.hoc-mi.com, scan our QR code below with your mobile device, or contact us directly at (269) 945-9520. Providing Excellence. In the Art of Total Orthopedic Care Physical Medicine and Pain Management Accessible. Comprehensive. 77567863 CBDG funds, as would any Barry County area. • Two rezoning requests from mixed-use to rural residential, one for the Hophead Farms in Barry Township and the other for a ministorage facility to built in Baltimore Township. Planning and Zoning Director James McManus explained that both parcels had once been identified as potential housing sites but now will be used for purposes making a rezoning designation proper. • A transfer of money within the community corrections fund of $5,000 to office supplies and $14,788 to salary and benefits. The transfer allows money allocated for the potential hire of a GED instructor to be properly aligned now that an instructor has been hired. • Payment of the $298,957 annual premium for county liability insurance on vehicles, properties and crime coverage to the Michigan Municipal Risk Management Authority. The premium is an approximately 4 percent reduction from the 2011-12 rate. • A correction to the retirement benefit contribution rate for sheriff command officers. When the new contract was recently negotiated, sheriff command officers agreed to pay an additional 2.5 percent into their retirement program, bringing their total contribution to a maximum of 6.06 percent. When it was discovered that the additional 2.5 percent additional employee contribution rate would move it beyond the maximum 6.06 percent, the new additional rate increase had to be reduced to 2.36 percent. • Adoption of the Reciprocal Retirement Act, as part of the Municipal Employees Retirement System. The adoption allows individuals who have earned service credit at another municipality to transfer those credits for the purpose of meeting pension eligibility requirements. In the ongoing discussion regarding hydraulic fracturing, commissioners also heard from George Williston who reported that most of the leases of public land in Barry County were sold at the May 8 auction in Lansing to Richard B. Patterson, president of Meridian Land Group in Haslett. Williston told commissioners that Meridian companies already have a permit from the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality of fracking for gas in Barry County somewhere near Dowling, most likely on private land. Williston also furnished commissioners with Meridian Land Group’s address and telephone number, along with an entreaty that the board “show some leadership in getting this postponed ... and to take the welfare and the health of Barry County into consideration.” Correction In an April 19 account of a Barry County Board of Commissioners meeting relative to a discussion on animal control, comments should have been accredited to Julie Baker. The Banner apologies for the error. NEWS BRIEFS continued from front page Hastings Memorial Day parade to have new route Monday, May 28, the Memorial Day parade in Hastings will step off at 9:30 a.m. from the corner of Boltwood and State streets. Groups or individuals wanting to participate in the parade will begin gathering at 8:30 a.m. in the former Felpausch parking lot. Due to the construction on M-37 and M-43 highways, the route will be changed this year. The parade will proceed west on State Street to the Barry County Courthouse where the honor guard will place wreaths on the monuments there. A very short ceremony will take place, the rifle squad will fire, and “Taps” will be played. The parade will then continue south on Church Street to Center Street, east on Center Street back to the Felpausch parking lot to disperse. Anyone interested in being on this year’s parade is asked to call Jim Atkinson, Post 45 Memorial Day Parade chairman, 269-948-8219 to register. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 17, 2012 — Page 3 Hastings GFWC hosts annual Senior Girls Tea Alice Kinney (left) is awarded the 2012 GFWC Hastings Women’s Club scholarship by club member Alvina Griswold. Hastings High School Class of 2012 girls and their mothers, grandmothers, sisters and friends gather for the 66th annual Hastings High School Senior Girls Tea at First Baptist Church in Hastings. Substance Abuse Task Force hosting town hall celebration Monday Four generations of one family who graduated from Hastings High School are (from left) Fern Lind, Darlene Harris, Tracey Vickery and Letitia Vickery. Representing four generations of Hastings High School graduates are (from left) Susan Freeman, Ruth Auten, Kelly Churchill and Farrah Salazar. Hastings Public Library Director Evelyn Holzwarth (left) accepts a check from GFWC President Barb Benner. The Barry County Substance Abuse Task Force is proud to be one of many community coalitions around the country encouraging people to take simple steps to improve their communities and lives as part of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National Prevention Week. For Barry County, this year’s town hall and celebration will focus on the theme of “Do Your Part” in alignment with similar observations across the state of Michigan. The “Do Your Part” town hall and celebration will be Monday, May 21, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Barry Community Enrichment Center, 231 S. Broadway, Hastings, The public is invited to attend. The event will include a brief presentation celebrating and highlighting the accomplishments and collaborative efforts to prevent underage drinking and other substance abuse issues in the community, along with a focus on the next steps in continuing to work together to make Barry County safer and healthier for everyone, said Liz Lenz, coordinator of the Barry County SATF. “Prevention involves many everyday actions, such as volunteering, getting involved, and talking to our friends and family members about being drug and alcohol free,” she said. “When we all do our part, no matter how big or small, we are working together to make a positive impact.” The power of prevention will also be celebrated during this event, and recognition will be given to outstanding SATF members and community partners for their involvement in local prevention efforts. “The SATF gets its strengths from its members and partners. Our community is a better place because we all work together to make a difference,” said Megan Palmer, Drug-Free Communities project coordinator with the SATF. “We want to thank them for their commitment, energy and involvement.” The Barry County Substance Abuse Task Force is coordinated through Substance Abuse Prevention Services, Barry County Community Mental Health Authority, and is a recipient of a Drug-Free Communities Support Grant. For more information, call 269-948-4200 or email Liz Lenz at llenz@bccmha.org or Megan Palmer at mepalmer@bccmha.org. “Alice has demonstrated a dedication to education, career goals and community spirit,” said GFWC President Barb Benner as she presented the scholarship. “She has exhibited responsibility, self-confidence, persistence, integrity and determination to achieve.” The soon-to-be-graduates and their mothers and other special guests enjoyed a fashion show coordinated by Sue Otto, owner of Previously Pink, an upscale consignment shop in downtown Hastings, and a speech entitled “The End is Always a Beginning,” by Rev. Gretchen K. Weller, rector of Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Hastings and Eastern dean for the Western Michigan Diocese. Rev. Gretchen Weller from Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Hastings gives a speech at the Senior Girls Tea. Ryan Rose, on behalf of the Barry County YMCA, accepts a check from GFWC President Barb Benner during the Hastings Senior Girls Tea. HJULIE REPUBLICAN for PROSECUTOR Nakfoor Pratt RESTORE JUSTICE IN BARRY COUNTY H Proven Trial Attorney H Child Advocate of the Year 2005 H www.julieforjustice.com 77567873 Tonka Kruger (left) accepts a check on behalf of Barry County Head Start from GFWC President Barb Benner. For 66 years, the GFWC-Hastings women’s club has hosted a tea for girls graduating from Hastings High School, and this year was no exception. Friday, May 4, at First Baptist Church in Hastings, the club treated the female portion of the Class of 2012 to punch, tea and light refreshments, musical entertainment by Bows ‘n’ Buddies, a fashion show and an inspirational speaker. The girls also witnessed the club’s presentation of donations to the Barry County YMCA, Barry County Head Start, Hastings Public Library and the 2012 GFWC Scholarship. The scholarship was awarded to Alice Kinney, daughter of Michael and Nancy Kinney of Hastings. In the fall, Kinney will attend Western Michigan University to study Spanish. This summer she plans to travel to Santiago, Chile, to visit Lisa Morgan a state department agent, whom Kinney said inspired her to study Spanish. During her time at Hastings High School, Kinney was involved in a variety of school and community activities, including 4-H, serving on the teen advisory board at Hastings Public Library, National Honor Society, Barry County Humane Society, Students Against Destructive Decisions, the Hastings High School recycling program, Youth in Government, Hastings Swim Club, junior varsity soccer, and donating blood to the Red Cross and her hair to Locks of Love. Paid for by the Committee to Elect Julie Nakfoor Pratt Prosecutor, 97 Sherwood Dr., Hastings, MI 49058 �Page 4 — Thursday, May 17, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Sales tax on all online purchases is long overdue Holding the line on any new tax increases has been the rule for many of our elected officials. And, for most voters – that’s been good news. However, there are times when a review of tax policy is necessary. For months now, Michigan Republicans have been touting the importance of getting the cost of government under control. Some have taken a “no new taxes” pledge which is laudable but, at the same time, they still have a responsibility to keep the system running. Gov. Rick Snyder is asking Congress to require online merchants to collect the 6 percent sales tax for Michigan. The system makes it difficult for small brick and mortar businesses to compete with large retail giants when they don’t have a physical presence in the state, allowing them a price advantage. Presently, 17 states have adopted legislation to collect taxes on Internet purchases, yet some retailers are challenging the tax on the grounds that only Congress can regulate interstate commerce. In fairness to taxpayers and to state governments, Congress should pass the Marketplace Fairness Act, by requiring all online and mail order purchases be required to collect the appropriate sales tax. For years now, small businesses have been subjected to an unfair competitive advantage since the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that states couldn’t require out-ofstate businesses to collect sales tax unless they had a physical presence. Yet local companies, who have a physical presence in our communities, are required to collect the tax. These businesses employ people who pay their fair share of taxes into the system. They participate in local events, donate to needy causes, and yet are expected to compete with faceless retail giants that avoid many of the same costs our local businesses face. Recently, a businessman told me about a customer who came into his store to inquire about a product. The retailer spent time with the customer, answering every question the customer had and showing the differences between other products to help the customer make the best choice. The customer left the store, promising to return. It sounded good, but the merchant knew the customer was going to purchase online, saving the sales tax and maybe even getting a better price, due to online retailers’ buying ability and lower overhead costs. If taxpayers expect our local governments to be able to fix our roads, to edu- A new record Hastings High School sophomore Trista Straube races to the finish line at the end of the 3200-meter run Saturday at Forest Hills Eastern High School in Ada. Straube set a new school record with her third-place time of 11 minutes 29.21 seconds in the event. The previous record was set in 1993. Do you know? What do you Years after this photograph was taken, the late Esther Walton, a noted local historian, penciled on the back the names Mildred Smith, Ed Taylor(?) , David VanBuskirk, Pat Wedel, and added “football field graduation, June 3, 1949.” So this photo is not so much of a mystery, thanks to Esther. Still, we thought readers would enjoy seeing a graduation ceremony that took place at Hastings High School, but with far different surroundings. If you look closely, you can see that many of the gowns have been darkened by raindrops. Rod DeMond called to say that in last week’s photo, which had been taken at Hastings Manufacturing Company, his uncle Steven DeMond was the one presenting a ham to an unknown lady in the center. To his right is Agnes Smith, the company’s registered nurse. The taller man to the right, he said, may have been Dick Begart. DeMond said his uncle worked at Hastings Manufacturing until 1951 or 1952, so the photo was likely taken in the late 1940s or early 1950s. Have you met? Pam Swiler lives in Lake Odessa with her husband, Wayne, on the Swiler family farm. She has worn many hats in her career, including as a secretary for 20 years in Grand Rapids Public Schools, a deputy registrar for the City of Grand Rapids, teaching an after-school program for fourth to sixth grade students, and serving as a substitute secretary in the Lakewood School District. She still works part time for her daughter who owns Practical Rehab Services. Swiler has been a member of the Lake Odessa Arts Commission board, is the founder and president of the Ionia County Genealogical Society, a member of the Lake Odessa Area Historical Society, and is currently on the board of the Lake Odessa Community Library. She also serves as a trustee at the Congregational Church in Lake Odessa. Swiler is always ready to step up and lend a hand when a need arises, making her a Barry County (area) bright light. Famous American you’d like to meet and why: Benjamin Franklin — I am fascinated by all the things he invented and would like to ask him what he thinks about the inventions of today. If you could go back in time where and If your life had a theme song, it would be: “Cheers.” TV show you would like to be on: NCIS. Favorite table or board game? Sequence — because all ages can play it. Best trip you ever took: A cruise to the Bahamas with my hubby. Most recent book you read: The Hunger Games. If you were featured in a front-page newspaper article, the headline would read: Volunteered for another task? Describe yourself in three words: Christian, detail-oriented, dedicated. Pam Swiler when would you go? Can’t think of any place or time I would want to go back to — there are a lot of places I have yet to see, though. Favorite sports team: Detroit Pistons. If you were a superhero, what superpower would you want? The power to make sad people happy. Each week, the Banner profiles a person from the community working behind the scenes, whose efforts may not make headlines, but whose dedication makes Barry County shine. We’ll provide a quick peek each week at some of Barry County’s stars. Do you know someone who should be featured? Send information to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@jadgraphics.com. cate our kids, and to maintain strong police and fire protection then they should accept the responsibility of demanding that we maintain fairness in our sales tax system. In recent years, due to the economic challenges facing our state, the amount of taxes collected has declined at every level. State law currently requires taxpayers to declare a use tax (6 percent) on purchases where sales tax wasn’t collected. But, very few taxpayers declare the unpaid tax on purchases on their year-end returns. According to state treasury officials, Michigan stands to lose more than $421 million this year in sales tax left uncollected due to online and mail order purchases. “Government should not be in the business of giving favored treatment of one retail sector over another sector,” said James Hallan, president and CEO of the Michigan Retailers Association. “You just have this protected class that’s flying under the radar and it’s just not right.” Due to the U.S. Supreme Court ruling, a company must have a presence inside a state for it to be required to collect and remit sales tax. The ruling should be changed so that all sales, whether from a brick and mortar, online or mail order operations the appropriate tax should be applied – it’s the right thing to do. Gov. Rick Snyder recently addressed a letter on this subject to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid of Nevada and Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky. “By enabling remote sellers to ignore the collection of sales and use taxes,” Snyder told Reid and McConnell, “it provides them an unfair competitive advantage and threatens the viability of retailers throughout our communities, many of which are locally owned small businesses that reflect the unique character and culture of the Great Lakes State. “As we continue to work to improve the quality and efficiency of services throughout the state,” Snyder went on to state, “it is crucial that the state has the tools to fairly collect the revenue that it is owed.” Snyder has led the charge since taking office in promoting efficiency in government at all levels. If taxpayers expect it to work, we must be willing to support the Marketplace Fairness Act as a way to maintain fairness in a system, by applying the appropriate tax to all purchases. think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. Feel free to leave an opinion or comment. Last week’s question: Road conditions and maintenance funding is expected to soon hit crisis levels. Are you willing to support increased funding for roads through . . . 10% 24% 67% Fred Jacobs, vice president J-Ad Graphics A higher gas tax A road millage Neither For this week: Candidates for local offices had until Tuesday to file their petitions. Many offices have only one candidate, and, in Castleton Township, there are no candidates for supervisor. Do you think the sacrifice for public service has become too high? q Yes q No GET MORE NEWS! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 17, 2012 — Page 5 Middleville council hears about overpopulation of mute swans by Julie Makarewicz staff writer A proliferation of mute swans may be harming the natural environment and wildlife of the millpond in Middleville. Sara Schaefer from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources told village council members during the May 9 meeting that they may want to consider measures to control the mute swan population. She toured the millpond by kayak and counted at least 30 adult mute swans. “Of greatest concern from that tour is the number of mute swans in the area and the pairing of a mute swan with a trumpeter swan. That’s not what we want to see,” she said. Mute swans are not natural to Michigan and are often very aggressive. They can force out the native trumpeter swan, which is on the state’s threatened species list. Increasing numbers of mute swans threaten successful breeding for trumpeter swans. Schaefer said there are signs the population of mute swans are also changing the millpond to more of a marsh area by reducing the amount of underwater vegetation and chasing away other waterfowl, such as wood ducks. “This pond should be alive with ducks and wood ducks and other breeding waterfowl. But there are very few,” she said. “Mute swans are very aggressive.” The DNR’s long-term goal, she said, is to reduce the state’s population of mute swans to less than 2,000 by the year 2030. There are several ways of doing this, according to Schaefer. One way is to make certain mute swan eggs don’t hatch. Another is to obtain permits from the DNR to cull the mute swan population in an area. Schaefer said the U.S. Department of Agriculture currently has grants available for mute swan culling. The village or some other government entity must submit an application to the DNR for permits first in order to obtain the grants. “If the millpond continues to be a safe haven for mute swans, they will continue coming back to nest, and more will also come,” Schaefer said. If the village decides to seek a permit, it can be good for up to five years. Village officials can determine acceptable numbers of mute swans to maintain in the area and continue culling the herd until those numbers are reached. The most notable difference between mute and trumpeter swans is that the adult male mute swan has an orange bill, while the trumpeter’s bill is black. Council members said they will have to discuss the issue further before making any decisions. Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV Fracking facts inspire little confidence To the editor: The oil and gas industry’s dissemination of misinformation regarding current and future hydrofracking in Michigan is troubling, though not unexpected. Unfortunately, the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality is perpetuating these half-truths and omissions. Proponents of fracking typically draw no distinction between conventional, vertical fracking and high-volume, horizontal fracking, claiming that 12,000 wells in Michigan have been fracked over the past 60 years with “no evidence of any adverse impacts on the environment or public health.” These 12,000 wells are conventional, vertical bores that are relatively shallow and consume relatively low amounts of groundwater during drilling, production and completion. Horizontal fracking represents a staggering increase in scales of operation, groundwater use and contamination, and toxic waste generation and disposal. This is not your father’s fracking; it’s akin to comparing a BB gun with a 30.06 rifle. In fact, only 12 wells have been horizontally fracked in Michigan. These wells are located in the northern Lower Peninsula, and at least two incidents of contamination linked to them have been documented thus far. This does not constitute a long-term record of safety, as the industry and the DEQ would have us believe. (Google: “Christmas Eve gas leak, Crawford County, Mich.”). Fracking advocates also downplay health and safety risks by asserting that Michigan’s unique geology and strict regulations will protect our water, land and air from contamination. They omit the fact that, since passage of the Energy Act of 2005, fracking operators are exempt from applicable pollution laws. These laws include the Safe Drinking Water Act, the Clean Water Act, the Clean Air Act, the National Environmental Policy Act, and the Superfund Law, which holds polluters financially responsible for cleanup of toxic waste sites. Exemption from these laws lets industry off the hook; when contamination occurs, taxpayers – not well operators – will pay for attempts at cleanup. These facts do not inspire confidence. If horizontal fracking is safe, why was it necessary for industry to cover its rear ends with these loopholes? According to an April 2011 Congressional report, more than 650 products used in fracking operations contain “components of concern,” including at least 14 carcinogens and 25 hazardous air pollutants. The primary response to this fact by industry and the DEQ: “Material Safety Data Sheets for these chemicals will be kept on site.” Is this representative of Michigan’s “tougher regulations?” Data sheets in a file cabinet? Even more unsettling are the fracking products and chemicals used that the industry is not required to disclose. When asked by Michigan Public Radio how these secret chemicals would affect a response to groundwater contamination, such as “How would we Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Helen Mudry OPEN 24 HRS. Woody’s General Store Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 With lots of love The Family...all of us! Licensed / Insured / Local Call Scott 517-290-5556 • 877-448-1548 FREE Consultation & Estimates! ALSO EGRESS WINDOWS / MOLD REMEDIATION HELP WANTED FEATURING: Local insurance agency seeking highly motivated team player for fast-paced office. Cold 2 Liters Insurance background preferred. 110 W. State Street DOWNTOWN HASTINGS Please send resume and salary requirements to … Come Down and See Us Ad #119 c/o Reminder P.O. Box 188 Hastings, MI 49058 04545174 Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Aging nicely like a fine wine... Seventy Never Looked So Good! CELL PHONE BOOSTER • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker ~ May 17th ~ 77567851 77567882 Published by... JOHNNY 77567853 Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 To the editor: It is apparent that oil exploration companies are keenly interested in seeking oil and gas in Barry County. Landowners are being approached to sign leases allowing companies the right to place drilling rigs on their property to access oil and gas. Even if your property is not large enough to support a drilling rig, drilling can be done laterally, accessing your minerals from afar. This amazing technology permits access to larger fields without unsightly drilling rigs covering the landscape. If drilling is successful, only a small cluster of wellheads remain, which can be easily hidden with landscaping. While there has been a citizens’ push against hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, actual facts are not always presented. The process of hydraulic fracturing has been statistically proven in Michigan to be safe, overseen by the state department of environmental quality, which must issue each permit and oversee each fracturing operation. The DEQ also oversees each land restoration when drilling is completed. Hydraulic fracturing has been done in Michigan since 1952. The number of actual wells fractured in Michigan is about 12,000 with no evidence of any adverse impacts to the environment or public health as stated by the DEQ. The water usage for a large-volume hydraulic fractured well is about the same as a three-eights-inch rainfall over one square mile of land. We had almost 10 times that in just one day recently over a third of Barry County, that’s three-plus inches over about 190 square miles. Also, the DEQ absolutely knows and must approve every chemical that is used for each well, although for proprietary reasons only, this is not published. Hydraulic fracturing has many benefits, including monetary compensation to landowners, an increase in spending at our businesses, restaurants and hotels, and the prospect of additional jobs. Every successful oil and gas well on our homeland reduces our need for foreign energy. Did you know that funds from leased state lands in Michigan are returned to the taxpayers in the form of improvements to parklands? The Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund disperses these monies through grants. Barry County received a $215,300 grant from this fund to develop McKeown Bridge Park in Hastings Township. This fund purchased fishing piers, a riverside boardwalk, nature trails and the native replanting of the prairie areas. I also understand that the Barry State Game Area is or will be applying for one or more of these grants for parking and access development for game area. Hydraulic fracture drilling is not a threat to our way of life but a benefit to all, especially the citizens of Barry County. Warren Wheeler, Yankee Springs Township 06778835 Banner know what to look for?” a DEQ spokesman responded, “Well, those chemicals would be present in the environment.” This sort of evasive obfuscation should disgust and alarm anyone who thinks critically. On May 8 in Lansing, more than 91,000 acres of state land mineral rights were leased to developers for gas extraction involving horizontal fracking. These 23,419 Barry County acres represent more than 25 percent of that total; significantly more acreage than any other Michigan county. During the course of the day, 10 registered bidders were removed from this public auction for expressing opinions critical of the process. One was arrested. This occurrence is indicative of a stifling of public participation in matters that directly affect the public. I urge concerned citizens to contact their legislative representatives, Gov. Rick Snyder, the DNR and the DEQ to demand public hearings on horizontal fracking and injection waste disposal prior to the issuance of drilling permits. Ask your township and county officials to pass local resolutions opposing this risk-laden drilling technique. Become informed; every state and Canadian province that has permitted horizontal fracking and deep-well injection of fracking waste has had problems. Entire countries (France, Bulgaria) have banned fracking altogether. The petroleum industry is, as always, 10 steps ahead in a rigged chess match against alarmed citizens. The industry has spent years and millions of dollars creating loopholes and securing exemptions from existing laws, both federal and state. They are spending millions more on various “clean energy” greenwashing campaigns that can be viewed, in heavy rotation, on network and cable television, as well as in dozens of print media. The McAda company is a fracking support firm specializing in the heating of fracking fluids to increase the production of a well. Among the items they provide to companies are site specific customization of services, helping drillers to decipher “the unknown intricacies of the geology.” This is what alarms critics of horizontal fracking. There exists an uncomfortable knowledge gap as well as an unconscionable disclosure gap on the part of the industry and, by extension, the state. Barry County is blessed with more lakes than any other Lower Michigan county. Are we willing to trust the petroleum industry – with its dubious record of safety and their pure profit motive – to protect our most valuable resource? For that matter, can we trust our state? Steven Losher, Cloverdale Call 945-9554 any time for Hastings Banner classified ads U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. The Hastings Oil and gas drilling benefits Barry County �Page 6 — Thursday, May 17, 2012 — The Hastings Banner See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits Worship Together… 77567770 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. CHURCH OF THE LIVING GOD A full gospel church. 1240 W. State Rd., Hastings. Pastor Doug Davis. 269-948-9740. Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study 6 p.m. Sunday School and Youth Group for all ages. Come and worship the Lord with us! . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. ORANGEVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH 6921 Marsh Rd., 2 miles south of Gun Lake, Plainwell. Phone 269664-4377. OrangevilleBaptist.org. Pastors Dan Bowman and Adam Parmenter. Sundays - 9:45--10:45 a.m. “Dealing With Your Past” March through May. March 25 - 6 p.m. “Messiah in the Passover’ Seder Meal. March 31 - 7 p.m. Orangeville Cafe. April 8 - 7:30 & 11 a.m. Easter Celebration. April 22-27 - Evangelist Will Rice. Children, teen and adult Sunday School classes; 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Worship; 5:30 p.m. Junior and Senior High Word of Life Clubs. Tuesday - 9 a.m. Men’s Prayer and Bible Study. Wednesday - 6:30 p.m. Pre-school through 6th grade Word of Life Gophers & Olympians. Prayer & Bible Study - 7 p.m. 6 p.m. Teen Word of Life. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Rev. Ryan Wieland. Sundays - 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Service; Sunday School and Nursery available during both services (Summer Schedule - Adult Sunday School: 9 a.m., Worship & Children’s Programs 10 a.m.) Youth Group, Covenant Prayer, Choir, Chimes, Praise Band, Quilting Group, Community Breakfasts and more! Call the church office at (269) 721-8077 (M/W/F 9 a.m.-12 p.m.), e-mail office@mei.net or visit www.countrychapelumc.org <http://www.countrychapelumc.org/> for more information SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 or -517-852-1806. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. HASTINGS REFORMED CHURCH “A Historic Reformed Community.” Sunday morning services begin at 10 a.m. Meeting at the Barry County Commission on Aging building, 320 W. Woodlawn Ave., Hastings. Pastor: Peter Adams. 616-690-8609 padams@juno.com. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 9:15 Contemporary Worship, 10:30 a.m. Refreshments, 11 a.m. Traditional Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Youth Pastor, Eric Gillespie. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. for children and youth, and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Junior & Senior High Youth Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Mid-Week Pioneers and adult classes return in September. Thursday: Senior Adult Bible Study at 10 a.m. and lunch at Wendy’s, 11:30 a.m. Vacation Bible School: Wed. & Thurs., July 25 & 26, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Sunday, May 20 - Worship at 8 and 10:45 a.m. Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. May 20 - Men’s AA at 7 p.m. May 21 - Adventurers Bible Study at 7 p.m.; Spiritual AA at 7:30 p.m. May 23 - Wordwatchers Bible Study at 10 a.m. May 24 - Clapper Kids Bell Choir at 3:45 p.m.; Grace Notes Bell Choir at 5:45 p.m. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-9459414 or 945-2645, fax 269-9452698. Pastor Amy Luckey. http://www.discover-grace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 10 a.m. Sunday School for ALL Ages; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service; 6 p.m. Youth Group; 6 p.m. Adult Small Group. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian. blogspot.com. Thursday - 6:30 p.m. Choir Rehearsal. Friday - 9 a.m. Pickleball; 9 a.m. Golfer’s Group Meets. Saturday - 10 a.m. Dock SetUp; 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday - 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 6:30 p.m. Financial Peace University. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Approximately 30 parents and community members attended the education forum Thursday, May 10, at the Barry County Enrichment Center in Hastings. The 90minute Community Conversation on Education was one of four sponsored by the Barry County Hometown Partnership and conducted by Center for Michigan. Previous forums were held in Maple Valley, Thornapple Kellogg and Delton Kellogg school districts. The forums are part of a series of 250 statewide community conversation conducted by Center of Michigan in 2012 to gather information about key issues and decisions related to education. It is expected that the forums will involve more than 5,000 local participants, including parents, students, business owners and educators. The goals of the local forums are to increase parent, student and employer knowledge about education choices facing Michigan; gather information about the preferences and perspectives on major education policy and reform choices currently being debated in Michigan and around the country; allow Michigan residents to be hear and press state legislators to follow citizen recommendations on how to improve education; and to provide participants with information on how to become more involved and improve education opportunities for students in the community. Each forum has four discussion topics: Teacher and school leader quality, ideas for improved learning, family and community involvement and the public’s investment. During the forum, each participant had the opportunity to use a hand-held “clicker” to answer a computerized poll regarding various issues. Before moving on to the four main topics, participants were asked what letter grade they would assign kindergarten through 12th grade education across Michigan. More than half, 55 percent, gave the statewide system a “C.” HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, May 17 — Pizza & Pages discusses Okay for Now by Gary Schmidt; Movie Memories presents the little gem “Romance on the High Seas,” 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, May 18 — preschool story time enjoys stories about kites, 10:30 to 11 a.m. Saturday, May 19 — find library staff at “A Very Barry Summer” at the Family Resource Center, at the COA Walkathon and at Charlton Park Day. Monday, May 21 — library board meets from 4 to 6 p.m.; computer class tackles “Job and Career Accelerator, Part 2,” 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 22 — toddler story time enjoys the stories of Cynthia Rylant, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30; open chess club, 6 to 8 p.m. Call the Hastings Public Library for more information, 269-945-4263. Call anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 When asked what letter grade they gave the local school system, the score was a little higher with the highest number, 35 percent, giving their local school district a “B,” 5 percent gave local schools an “A,” 30 percent gave it a “C,” and another 30 percent of respondents gave it a “D” or an “E.” Fred Jacobs, vice president of J-Ad Graphics, which published the Banner, said if the data was broken down further, it was likely to reveal that, in Hastings Area Schools, people with children in grades kindergarten through fifth were much more likely to be satisfied with the schools than those with students in middle and high school. Parent Kim Bosma said the local scores are likely higher than the state because people are more involved and have more control at the local level. Regarding teacher and school leadership, audience members were asked to rank the importance of each of three options — improving teacher preparation, providing stronger support for teachers and school leaders or holding teachers and school leaders more accountable for student success. After the poll was closed, results showed that most respondents felt that each was category was at least somewhat important. Steve Williams said he feels it should take longer and be harder to qualify to become a teacher, a thought echoed by others in the audience. Under the topic of ideas for improved learning, respondents were given the opportunity to make comments on five topics — expanding preschool and early childhood programs, changing the school calendar, reducing class size, increasing school choice and expanding online education opportunities. Williams said early childhood and preschool programs are important because a child’s brain develops more rapidly during early childhood than at any other time. Jacobs said Michigan needs to go back to allowing schools to offer both a career and college prep programs because not all high school graduates will complete a four-year 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 college program. He also said he thought Schools of Choice were a disaster for Barry County schools because it causes them to compete for students rather than working together. All those who spoke about class size said smaller class sizes are beneficial for students because they allow teachers to give each student individual attention. While some said online courses can expand a school’s offerings, technology does not offer the same level of interaction as a traditional classroom was the consensus, along with the belief that a heavy reliance on technology could lead to social isolation. The school calendar generated little discussion among those present at the forum. When discussing the topic of family and community involvement, everyone who spoke said family, especially parental involvement, is a very important component of student success. When polled, 88 percent said the local school district could do more to encourage parental and community involvement in the schools. Another 96 percent said there was more businesses and community groups could do to support local schools. One member of the audience suggested the schools adapt and use the formalized structure hospitals use to coordinate their volunteers. “You could deploy literally hundreds of people for thousands of hours when you use that structure ...” she said. “We have a community that wants to be active, but nobody is utilizing that,” said Bosma. The final topic of discussion was how the state spends tax dollars to fund public education. When polled, the majority of those who responded said they disagreed or strongly disagreed with the statement that the state is giving them a good return on their investment. For more details of the discussion and results of the poll from the May 10 forum, email Tom Wilt, tomwilt@gmail.com, and he will email the information when it becomes available in two to three weeks. Area Obituaries Doris Louise Keller-Robbins WAYLAND, MI - Doris Louise KellerRobbins, age 80, of Wayland passed away Sunday, May 6, 2012. She was born January 24, 1932 in Bradley, the daughter of Frank (Buster) and Bessie (Sager) Morganstern. Doris attended Wayland High School, graduating in 1950. She worked for the State of Michigan, retiring in 1992. Doris was married to Jack Keller, her first husband until his passing in 2003. She then married Rodney Robbins in 2004. Doris volunteered for Hospice and also Pennock Hospital in Hastings. She enjoyed working in her flowers and loved living on the lake. Doris was preceded in death by her parents; first husband, Jack Keller and an uncle, June Donald Sager. Doris is survived by her husband, Rodney Robbins of Gun Lake; daughter, Patricia (Slomski) Shurtz; granddaughter, Alexandra Shurtz and grandson, Jon Shurtz, all of Detroit; and several aunts, uncles and cousins. Respecting Doris’s wishes, cremation has taken place and no services are being held. Memorial contributions may be made to: Barry Community Hospice, 450 Meadow Run Dr., Hastings, MI 49058. Arrangements made by Girrbach Funeral Home, Hastings. Ray L. Girrbach Owner/Director 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 Fiberglass Products Lauer Family Funeral Homes Hastings forum shows community wants to be more involved in school district • 269-945-3252 Serving Hastings, Barry County and Surrounding Communities for 45 years •Traditional and Cremation Services •Pre-Planning Services •Large Parking Lot - Handicap Accessible •Serving All Faiths •Pre-arrangement Transfers Accepted Family Owned and Operated www.girrbachfuneralhome.net LaVonne D. Reilly HASTINGS, MI- LaVonne D. Reilly, age 95, passed away at MagnumCare in Hastings on Tuesday, May 8, 2012. LaVonne was born in Joplin, MO on December 24, 1916, the daughter of Roy and Adeline (Lee) Dalton. She moved to Des Moines, IA and graduated in 1936 from North High School, where she was in the honor society. In 1938 she graduated with an associate degree in business from Capital City Community College. LaVonne was a fashion model in Ft. Lauderdale in the mid 60s. LaVonne worked for General George Olmsted, during WWII. She married Walter E. Reilly Jr. on June 25, 1943 in Des Moines, IA. In later years she worked as an executive secretary at Delavan Corporation in Des Moines, IA, retiring in 1985. After retirement, LaVonne enjoyed traveling. She traveled to China, Italy, France and England on long vacations. She also traveled to Florida to see her grandchildren: JP Costanzo and Elisabeth Costanzo. LaVonne was preceded in death by her husband, Walter. She is survived by her two children, Walter E. (Sue) Reilly III of Delton and Dianne (Stan) Simmer of Naples, FL; her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Respecting LaVonne’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a celebration of life gathering will be held in June. Memorial contributions may be made online to Spectrum Health Hospice at the following address: http://spectrumhealthfoundation.org/body.cfm?id=45 Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a message or memory for the family. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 17, 2012 — Page 7 State News Roundup BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY by Gerald Stein NORTH N: K 9 6 4 M: 3 2 L: 7 6 2 K: A 10 5 4 WEST N: J 5 3 2 M: K Q 6 5 L: J 10 K: Q 9 6 SOUTH: N: A 10 8 M: 10 9 L: 8 5 4 K: K 8 7 3 2 Dealer: East Vulnerable: East-West Lead:K6 1N 2M Pass East Pass Pass Pass Pass South 1M 2L 4M Pass West Pass Pass Dbl. Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. 77567781 Captain M. North surveyed the fast-moving waters from the pier at Tyden Park where the USS: Barry County Bridge Barge was moored for the day’s events. There would be no river cruise today after the three inches of rain had fallen overnight as reported by the Hastings Airport. The bridge tournament would go on, however, despite the high waters. The bridge players wouldn’t care. Captain North began straightening tables and chairs and was getting ready for the afternoon session. He had sent the bridge players into town for lunch. They would be back shortly. As he was rearranging his seven tables, Vera and Rosy, two of his players, began to make their appearance earlier than he thought possible. “Didn’t you stop for lunch, Ladies?” asked the Captain. “Oh, no, Captain North, not today,” answered Rosy. “We needed to see Doctor Anna, our friend and confidante. We wanted to ask her about the Hypocritical Oath.” Captain North just stared. “Don’t you mean the Hippocratic Oath?” Rosy chimed in, “Oh, Captain North, you are so funny. Of course, we mean the Hypocritical Oath. You know, where one partner does no harm to the other partner. They teach that in all of the medical schools, you know.” Poor Captain North. He could say no more. Vera went on as breathless as Rosy. “We were so upset about this morning’s hand and what we had done to each other that we thought we should get some medical advice. That is why we sought out Doctor Anna instead of going for lunch. It was worth the trip to town.” Captain North knew by now that he was going to hear about this morning’s disaster, so he pulled out one of the chairs and sat down. Rosy and Vera joined him immediately. “You know, Captain, that a partnership is a very special thing, don’t you?” Before he could answer, Rosy went on, “Vera, my partner, was South, and I was North. We ended up in a bad contract at 4M doubled down 4 tricks for a minus 800 points. It was a disaster.” Here she sighed, and then she went on. “I blamed Vera for putting us in the wrong contract, and I thought that we should only be down one trick, but one trick or four doesn’t make much sense once your partner is rattled. I think I am to blame for our disaster.” Here she looked at Vera and then at the Captain who only nodded to make it look like he knew what she was talking about. Here Vera spoke up. “As South, I looked at our contract of 4Hearts doubled, and it did not look good. With the lead of the 6K, I took a moment to make my plan: our objective was to take ten tricks. That did not look very promising since my partner had supported my hearts with only two little hearts. We had seven hearts between us, and our opponents had six. I knew from my bridge class that hearts would probably break 4-2 when there is an even number out. Ouch.” “I rushed my play of the hand, and I called for a small club from the board instead of going up immediately with the Ace of clubs. East took his King of clubs, and my singleton Jack fell on his King. A very bad start, I must say.” Here Vera dabbed her eyes. Something in the air. “To make a long story short, I forgot everything I knew about playing the hand. I did not lead a small trump from the board as I should have to finesse the Jack against the King and Queen of hearts. I did not set up the Queen of spades by leading a small spade toward the King of spades. I did not play the Ace of trump at the right time. I should have been down only one trick for a minus 100 points instead of down four doubled.” Here Rosy reached over and patted her partner’s hand. “Vera, I think most of the fault was mine. I did not respond correctly to your bidding. I could have done several things differently. One, I could have passed your two diamond bid, and we could have played in diamonds, but you know how I hate to play in the minors when we can play in the majors.” Here Vera nodded, and Rosy continued. “But, here, Captain North, is where I harmed our partnership the most. I did not listen to the bidding very well. I know that Vera has five hearts and at least four diamonds in her hand, and she has bid a second time so she must have a strong bidding hand. I should have looked at my hand, and I should have realized that I had spades and clubs. What about a two no trump bid?” Vera piped up, “You’re right, Rosy! If you bid two no trump, then I will bid three no trump, and I bet it will make!” They both giggled delightedly at their new-found insight into a disastrous hand. “So, Captain North, now you know why we wanted to seek out Doctor Anna for her advice on the Hypocritical Oath. We just did not want to harm our partnership.” They both looked so relieved that Captain North could say nothing at first. “I must finish my tidying up, if you will excuse me.” Just then, he bumped his leg on one of the chairs. “Now, Captain North, do no harm to your leg,” chirped Rosy. “Yes, Captain North,” added Vera, “they might cut your leg off.” Here they burst into peals of laughter as poor Captain North limped off. ***** Bridge Question: What do bridge players mean when they say that someone has cut their leg off? ***** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! including the ongoing debt crisis in Europe, national debt concerns, and high oil and gas prices. Rising energy costs and a corresponding downturn in the economy could have a dampening effect on the state’s economic growth. Following Wednesday’s revenue estimating conference, Michigan’s net fiscal year 2012 general fund-general purpose revenue is projected at $9.064 billion, up $34 million from the estimate agreed to at the January revenue conference. The net school aid fund revenue for the current year is now estimated at $10.876 billion, up $113 million from January. Combined, the general and school aid fund estimates are up $146 million for fiscal year 2012. State Treasurer Andy Dillon, State Budget Director John Nixon, Senate Fiscal Agency Director Ellen Jeffries, and House Fiscal Agency Director Mary Ann Cleary Wednesday reached a consensus on economic and revenue figures for the remainder of fiscal year 2012, and for the next two fiscal years. Net GF-GP revenue for the 2013 fiscal year is now forecasted at $8.970 billion, down $65 million from the January estimate, while the FY 2013 SAF revenue estimate has been revised up $115 million to an estimated $11.170 billion. In FY 2014, GF-GP revenue is estimated at $9.259 billion and SAF revenue is estimated at $11.472 billion. “Employment is rising, motor vehicle production is increasing, and tax collections are growing,” said Dillon. He also cautioned that there are several risks to revenue estimates such as these, Multi-state effort focuses on drug trafficking, impaired driving EAST N: Q 7 M: A J 8 7 4 L: A K Q 9 3 K: J North Revenue projections for state show improvements Michigan State Police troopers joined forces with state troopers from Ohio, Kentucky, West Virginia, Pennsylvania and Indiana recently to combat drug trafficking and impaired driving on Interstates 70 and 75. The three-day effort May 3 to 5, resulted in 78 arrests for impaired driving and 40 criminal cases across the six states. Enforcement in Michigan focused on the I75 corridor from Saginaw County to Monroe County. MSP troopers made more than 300 traffic stops during the enforcement period resulting in 26 criminal complaints and nine arrests, including one arrest for impaired driving. “Successful multi-agency enforcement efforts like this one illustrate the collective power of being able to go where crime is occurring,” said Col. Kriste Kibbey Etue, director of the MSP. “We know crime is mobile, moving not only among our cities within Michigan, but to and from our neighboring states.” The six-state trooper project is a collaborative effort aimed at providing combined and coordinated law enforcement and security services in the areas of highway safety, criminal patrol and intelligence sharing. Governor declares state of emergency in Genesee County Gov. Rick Snyder Friday declared a state of emergency in Genesee County due to storms and severe flooding on May 3 and 4. The declaration, outlined in a proclamation, was requested by local officials and will ensure that all possible resources, in accordance with the Michigan Emergency Management Plan, are provided to assist local response efforts. The Federal Emergency Management Agency joined state and local officials beginning Monday, May 14, to assess the extent of damage to homes and businesses in the most severely impacted areas in Genesee County. Results of the preliminary damage assessment will help the state determine whether any federal aid may be available to help affected residents and business owners in Genesee County. Snyder’s emergency declaration authorizes the Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division to coordinate and maximize all state efforts to address public health and safety concerns in Genesee County, as well as to coordinate with federal agencies to provide any available assistance to help with recovery efforts. SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN Young workers learn about Social Security by Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Summer will be here before we know it. That means millions of high school and college students will be searching for jobs. Whether a new worker is beginning the career of a lifetime or just earning some extra money for the next school year, one question is likely to be on each new worker’s mind upon seeing his or her first pay stub: Where’s the rest of my money? Some of the money that is withheld is referred to as “Social Security taxes” on the employee’s payroll statement. Sometimes the deduction is labeled as “FICA taxes,” which stands for Federal Insurance Contributions Act. I can tell you how that money is being used and what’s in it for you. Taxes paid now translate to a lifetime of protection, when you eventually retire or if you become disabled. In the event that you die young, your dependent children and spouse may be able to receive survivors benefits based on your work. Another bit of helpful advice for young workers: Be wary if you’re offered a job “under the table” or “off the books.” If you work for any employer who pays you only in cash, understand that you’re likely not getting Social Security credit for the work you’re doing. Want to learn more about Social Security and what it means to young workers? If so, we invite you to enjoy a webcast: Social Security 101: What’s In It For Me? The webcast will fill viewers in on the details everyone should know to get the most out of Social Security. Check it out at www.socialsecurity.gov/webinars/social_security_101.html. If you have questions about Social Security, the best place to go is online, to www.socialsecurity.gov. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. �Page 8 — Thursday, May 17, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of by Elaine Garlock Saturday, the Sebewa Center United Methodist Center is having one of its monthly dinners. This month the entree is the cook’s choice. Sunday, graduating seniors will be recognized at several local churches. Coming May 25 to 28 at the Depot complex will be the annual military tribute. The weekend begins with the tribute Friday at 7:30 p.m. when the veteran of the year is to be announced. Last year there were multiple honorees. Refreshments will be served to the dozens who attend. Saturday will have a recognition for World War II veteran Stanton Strickland, farmer on Bliss Road, widower of Helen Durkee (Mutschler) who served in the 137th Infantry Division in France and beyond but never received his medals. The public is invited to attend. Again Sunday, the museum will be open to all visitors to see the wide array of uniforms, medals, maps and souvenirs from 2 to 5 p.m. The museum will be open Monday from noon to 5 p.m. This is a fine time to share with out-of-town visitors the accumulation of military exhibits that are permanent items or possibly on loan for the day. The local historical society met Thursday evening at Lakeside Cemetery for its May meeting. Members and visitors assembled on one of the cross drives behind Section 4 where some chairs had been brought for visitor comfort. Only two business items had to be voted upon. President John Waite announced the many May events yet to take place, mainly connected with the salute to veterans. The evening’s chairman introduced the interpreters who would relate stories of the selected personages whose grave markers were in Section 4. The interpreters were Julie Nelson, Don Garlock, Dick Nelson, Tom Pickens, Dean Durkee and Tom Dowker. Members progressed from one station to the next in groups of eight, so each interpreter made his or her speech twice. They portrayed Alice Colwell, John Nead, Emerson Pull, Edgar Eldrige, John Stair and Samuel Leak. Among the descendants of the selected persons were Hale McCartney and sons from Mrs. Colwell; Edrie McCartney and Fr. Dennis Morrow from Emerson Pull and Laverne and Lawrence Eldrige, Annabelle Vojtech and Marian Hamilton from Samuel Leak. Some of the actors dressed in period clothing. Julie Nelson dressed in high style, complete with lace shawl and fur wrap. The county genealogy society met Saturday for a presentation by the Egyptian born vice president of Herbruck’s poultry operation near Saranac. Some of his figures were very impressive. One such is that the hennery on Portland Road houses 4.5 million laying hens. The gentleman said 2.5 percent of Americans produce food for millions of people around the world. several current and former employees of Herbruck’s were present to see the film. Bernice Hamp was in Leslie for the weekend and enjoyed Mother’s Day dinner with three of her sons and a few grandchildren at the home of Allan and Mary Hamp. Karen and Elizabeth Morse of Galesburg enjoyed spending Mother’s Day at Carlton Center with her mother, sister and others of the host family. The Tim Matthews family of Hudsonville attended church Sunday with Marla’s parents. They were joined by the Tim Warren family, the Tom Reisers, their mother, Carol Reiser, to see their nephews Sam and George McNeil performing in The Revue’s “Music Man Jr.” in Nashville. The Tri-River Museum group met Tuesday morning at the Cascade library. Anther pair of museums was seeking admission to the group. They were voted in by the members present. Thus joining the group will be Caledonia Historical Society and also the Heritage Village at Montcalm Community College. Reports were given by those present about their attendance at the museums tour last weekend. At long last, the engineering company which last fall began a waterline project to serve Twin City Foods, has laid pipe along the north segment of Johnson Street to complete the project. The circuit to connect Twin City was put in use last fall but the Johnson Street part was left idle once the little blue flags were put in place. Now comes the digging and disruption. TWO BROTHERS AND A TENT For All Your Tent Rental Needs Tables and chairs available. Call: Dan McKinney 269-838-7057 or Tom McKinney 269-838-3842 Can you turn “Be a Millionaire Day” into reality? If you look hard enough, you can find many obscure holidays, but few of them can instantly capture people’s interest as much as Be a Millionaire Day, which is “celebrated” on May 20. While amassing a million dollars may not be as significant a milestone as it used to be, most of us would still feel pleased if we could someday attain “millionaire” status. While there are no perfect formulas or guarantees, here are some steps to consider when working toward any investment goal: • Put time on your side. The earlier you begin saving and investing, the better your chances of reaching your financial goal. You can’t expect to “strike it rich” immediately with any single investment, but by investing year in and year out, and by choosing quality investment vehicles, you have the opportunity to achieve growth over time. • Pay yourself first. If you wait until you “have a little extra money lying around” before you invest, you may well never invest. Instead, try to “pay yourself first.” Each month, move some money automatically from a checking or savings account into an investment. When you’re first starting out in the working world, you might not be able to afford much, but as you advance in your career, you can increase your contributions. • Control your debts. It’s easier said than done, but if you can keep a lid on your debt payments, you’ll have more money with which to invest. • Take advantage of tax deferral. When you invest in tax-deferred vehicles, such as a traditional Individual Retirement Account (IRA) and your 401(k) or similar employer-sponsored retirement plan, your money has the opportunity to grow faster than it would if placed in an investment on which you paid taxes each year. Of course, when you start taking withdrawals, presumably at retirement, you’ll have to pay taxes, but by then, you may be in a lower tax bracket. And since you’ll have some control over your withdrawals, you can help control taxes, too. • Build share ownership. As an investor, Use the HASTINGS BANNER classifieds to sell, rent, buy, hire, find work, etc. Call 269-945-9554 to place your ad today! Bake Sale th Saturday, May 19 8:30 am to 3:00 pm — Apple St. UAW Hall — 77566915 We have many delicious baked goods for you... Homemade Pies: NOTICE Strawberry ~ Rhubarb ~ Apple The Barry County Board of Commissioners is seeking applications from volunteers to serve on the following Boards/Commissions: Chocolate Chip ~ No Bake Agricultural Preservation Board (3 positions: 2 representing Natural Resource Conservation, and 1 representing Agricultural Interest) Brownies • Cupcakes Cinnamon Rolls Animal Control/Shelter Advisory Board (1 position, Citizen at Large) Sponsored by the USW Local 5965 Building Authority (1 position) 77567843 Cookies: All proceeds to be donated to the Fresh Food Initiative Solid Waste Oversight Committee (1 position, representing Health Association/Environmental Professional) Applications may be obtained at the County Administration Office, 3rd floor of the Courthouse, 220 W. State St., Hastings; or www.barrycounty.org; and must be returned no later than 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 6, 2012. Contact 269-945-1284 for more information. 77567828 CASH & GO! Vehicles Under $2000 ® (+ Tax, Title, Plate) ’96 Beretta $1,085 The ’99 Lumina $1,285 ’94 S-15 Jimmy 4-Dr. $1,285 • 97 S-10 Blazer, 4-door • 97 Voyager • 93 Astro Van • 01 Windstar • 97 Explorer • 99 Town & Country • 92 Acclaim • 97 Intrepid • 95 F-150 2WD See Our Website for Updates! 7709 Kingsbury Rd., Delton, MI 49046 Phone 269-623-2775 Fax 269-623-6075 See web for current inventory… 77567886 77564841 EDWARD JONES gogoautoparts.com one of the best things you can do to build your wealth is to increase the number of shares you own in your investments. So, look for buying opportunities, such as when prices are low. Also, consider reinvesting any dividends or distributions you may receive from your investments. • Don’t be overly cautious. For your money to grow, you need to put a portion of your investment dollars in growth-oriented vehicles, such as stocks. It is certainly true that stock prices will always fluctuate, sometimes quite sharply, and you may receive more or less than your original investment when sold. But if you avoid stocks entirely in favor of more stable vehicles, you run the risk of earning returns that may not keep you ahead of inflation. As you approach retirement, and even during retirement, your portfolio will probably still need some growth potential. Work with your financial advisor to determine the appropriate approach for you. • Think long term. By creating a long-term investment strategy and sticking to it, you’ll be less likely to take a “timeout” from investing in response to perceived negative news, such as market downturns and political crises. Following these suggestions may someday allow you to reach the point when your financial goals become a reality for you. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 31.75 -.51 AT&T 33.35 +.31 BP PLC 38.18 -2.24 CMS Energy Corp 22.51 -.11 Coca-Cola Co 76.57 -.57 Eaton 44.09 -1.42 Family Dollar Stores 66.43 -.85 Fifth Third Bancorp 13.58 -.63 Flowserve CP 108.83 -2.24 Ford Motor Co. 10.15 -.46 General Mills 39.58 +.76 General Motors 21.42 -.81 Intel Corp. 26.88 -.49 Kellogg Co. 50.98 +.23 McDonald’s Corp 91.01 -2.54 Pfizer Inc. 22.30 -.12 Ralcorp 70.90 -.19 Sears Holding 52.91 -1.97 Spartan Motors 4.55 -.13 Spartan Stores 17.79 +.12 Stryker 51.99 -2.16 TCF Financial 11.73 -.29 Walmart Stores 59.35 +.30 Gold $1543.00 -$62.15 Silver $27.70 -$1.76 Dow Jones Average 12,632 -300 Volume on NYSE 814M -39M Nuclear power plants getting axed by Dr. E. Kirsten Peters Energy is the lifeblood of modern economies, and there’s no more amazingly useful form of energy than electricity. That’s why I was initially startled to read the recent news that the last of Japan’s 54 nuclear power plants has been shut down, a turn of events that makes Japan the first major economy of this century to run without operating any such reactors. The news impressed me because prior to the mega-quake and tsunami of 2011, Japan powered 30 percent of its electrical grid from nuclear plants. Giving up about a third of the electrical power used by a major economy is a convulsive change. (By way of comparison, in the U.S. about 20 percent of our electricity comes from nuclear plants. That’s more than most people realize, but still a full notch less than what Japan had been doing before the quake.) But big changes in public policy should be no surprise, given the size of the nuclear disaster that hit Japan last year. The earthquake and tsunami there sparked problems that became nuclear meltdowns in power plants near Fukushima. Japan has been making up the power gap it faces by importing more fossil fuels. That approach, of course, increases the world’s production of greenhouse gases, an environmental black eye in the minds of many. I’ve read that the Japanese have been importing 18 percent more liquefied natural gas than they were before the earthquake, the lion’s share of which has gone to generating electricity. Recently, I talked all this over with Dr. Don Wall, director of the research reactor at Washington State University. Wall reminded me about how differently we can use natural gas and what those differences can mean in terms of efficiency. A good home furnace, for example, is close to 95 percent efficient. “But burned to generate electricity, natural gas is only 35 percent efficient. So I think power generation is a horribly wasteful way to use good fuel,” Wall said. “We have lots of uranium, and it makes sense to me to use it to generate electricity in nuclear plants.” Even with the increase in burning fossil fuels in Japan, power supplies have been tight. Last summer, when electricity demands were high, factories ran at night and during the weekends to help spread out electrical needs. In other words, people had to deal with major disruptions of their lives in order to hold things together over the warm months. Some analysts see this summer as a test case for the possibility of a no-nuke future in Japan. If the nation can make it through the summer with some sacrifices but no blackouts, many citizens will want to keep the shuttered nuclear plants offline. But if that happens, it will be an expensive change. The Japanese economy traditionally ran trade surpluses because the world bought so many of its products. But because of the increases in fossil fuel purchases, Japan ran a trade deficit last year for the first time in more than 30 years. Partly in response to such impacts, Yoshito Sengoku, president of the ruling party in Japan, called ending all nuclear power production the equivalent of “mass suicide.” The effects of Japan’s 2011 disaster are also being felt in Europe. Dr. Wall said Germany has been putting the brakes on using its nuclear power plants. “That’s been a windfall for France because Germany is now purchasing large amounts of electricity from the French,” he said. “According to Le Monde, France has sold over $400 million of electricity to Germany in nine months.” It’s nice to have a next-door neighbor that can sell you a lot of electricity. But the irony is that France has the strongest nuclear program in the world. Almost 80 percent of all the power generated in France comes from nuclear plants. So Germany may be shuttering its own nuclear power plants, but it is increasing its reliance on such plants next door, at least for now. “France is the largest net exporter of electricity in the world and it benefits from that fact in all sorts of ways,” Wall told me. “It’s interesting to think we in the U.S. could move in that direction ourselves if we made it a priority.” Dr. E. Kirsten Peters, a native of the rural Northwest, was trained as a geologist at Princeton and Harvard universities. Follow her online at rockdoc.wsu.edu and on Twitter @RockDocWSU. This column is a service of the College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences at Washington State University. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 17, 2012 — Page 9 and their son, Clifford, was boiling sap. A gravel pit on the farm was opened in 1928. In addition to Clifford, who also is a carpenter, often working with Fred Linington, they have two daughters, Mrs. Howard (Kathryn) Ferris, Route 1, Hastings; and Mrs. Lowell (Lois) Hofmister, of South Haven; and seven grandchildren. ***** Hastings Banner, April 10, 1952 Marriage Licenses WINTER SCENE ON THE FARM – Hugh Johnson and his son, Elmer, are pictured with their team of Percheron mares Monday with cattle munching corn tossed on the weekend snows which had covered the spring countryside. The Johnson farm, on Gun Lake Road in Section 16 of Rutland Township, was the 12th to be featured in the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz. – Photo by Barth. This is the seventh part of a series reprinting the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz promotion that ran in the Banner 60 years ago. An unidentified aerial photo of an area farm was pictured in the Banner each week, from Jan. 24 to July 17, 1952, and the owners of the mystery farms were featured in the paper the following week. The contest was sponsored by the Banner and 35 area merchants who were listed in the April 12 edition of the Banner. The photo and names this week may look and sound familiar to Banner readers since they were pictured in the March 29 Banner in the Do You Know archived photo feature. ***** Hastings Banner, April 3, 1952 11th Lucky Farmers have grass farm in Hope Twp. The second grassland farm of the 11 pictured up to this week in the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz is the large establishment owned by Mr. and Mrs. George A. Clouse, Route 5, Hastings, well-known Barry County couple. Mr. and Mrs. Clouse, with the help of their son, Clifford, operate 160 acres on the home place and another 120 acres entirely as a grassland farm – and have been for the past three years. The Clouses gradually discontinued general farming and are now working under a soil and water conservation plan prepared by B. Dale Ball while he was the soil technician working with the Barry Soil Conservation District. They raise no row crops such as corn, but concentrate on good grasses to feed their herd of 45 registered Guernseys. They make grass ensilage which they put up in their two silos. They do grow wheat and oats, too. Mr. and Mrs. Clouse purchased their farm, located in Section 11 of Hope Township four miles north of Cloverdale on the Shultz Road, from Fred Weyerman in 1920 and have worked the place ever since. Both Mr. and Mrs. Clouse came from Burnips Corners in the northern part of Allegan County. Both went to school there, and their marriage might be termed the outgrowth of a childhood romance. George was born in Salem Township, Allegan County, Feb. 10, 1886, the son of John and Catherine Clouse. Mrs. Clouse is the former Nellie DeJongh, daughter of Cornelius and Helena DeJongh. After attending school at Burnips Corners, George taught school for eight years and then operated a general store at Dorr for nine years. He and Nellie were married Nov. 30, 1911. Two years after they moved to Hope Township, George was elected supervisor and served for eight years. He then became Barry County superintendent of the poor, serving for three years, and in the fall of 1936 was elected county treasurer. He served for 10 years. All during this period, he was developing his farm, and the hilly land prompted him to go into grassland farming on the recommendation of technicians with the soil district. The Clouses started in grass farming prior to three years ago and switched over entirely when their plan had been developed sufficiently. They and their neighbor, David Cunningham, own a field chopper which they use in putting up their grass ensilage and chopped hay. “We’re well satisfied with the progress and results of our grassland farming,” Clouse reports. For the past three years, they have filled their new silo, which holds about 80 tons, with the grass ensilage and this past year also used the old silo that holds about 40 ton. They doubted, at first, whether the old silo, which was on the place when they purchased it would keep the new silage – but it does. They have seeded part of the swamp on the place with Reeds canary grass. Their 32-by-66-foot barn, which the Clouses enlarged, has been modernized, and they have erected a new chicken house. Their home is very modern, down to TV, but like many other farms, some household improvements take a back seat to the requirements of the farm. The Clouses had to purchase a new motor for the milking machine last week, so Mrs. Clouse said she’d probably have to wait a bit longer for new carpeting in the living room. Saturday, their “sugar bush” was in operation – as were many others in the county – See us for color copies, one-hour photo processing and all your printing needs. PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy., Hastings. At the gray barn Derick James Hall, Hastings and Tammuz Valerie Mead, Hastings. Todd Alan Wohlford, Willow Spring, NC and Tammy Lynn Stutzman, Hastings. David Louis Berlien II, Delton and Suzann Marie Momenee, Delton. James William Springer, Hickory Corners and Chelsea Rae Bowker, Hickory Corners. John Josiah Raterink, Hastings and Jennifer Caitlin Wentworth, Zeeland. Christopher Lee Freeman, Shelbyville and Lora Jane Haak, Highland Park, IL. John William VanProoyen, Middleville and Carol Sue Kool, Middleville. Blake Edward Lucas, Oswego, IL and Joyelle Marie Endres, Oswego, IL. Jeremiah William Swift, Nashville and Louanne Marie Secord, Hastings. Jacob Kenneth Heuss, Hastings and Nichole Irene Bivens, Hastings. FEEDS GRASS SILAGE – Mrs. George A. Clouse is pictured watching her husband feed grass silage to cows in his herd of 45 registered Guernseys. The Clouse’s farm was the 11th to be featured in the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz. Located on a farm amidst the rolling hills of Hope Township, the Clouses practice grassland farming entirely and are closely following the farm plan developed through the Barry Soil Conservation District. – Photo by Barth. Like her husband, Mrs. Johnson was also born in Barry County. She was born at Cedar Creek, on the hill above the old flour mill, the daughter of Arley and Hattie Hull. They were married Feb. 19, 1914, by the Rev. Maurice Grigsby in the Presbyterian manse in Hastings. Colt Dale, born at Pennock Hospital on April 25, 2012 at 10:35 a.m. to Scott and Nicole (Reid) Lewis of Hastings. Weighing 9 lbs. 13 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Tanner Douglas Morgan, born at Pennock Hospital Hospital on April 28, 2012 at 9:27 p.m. to RJ Morgan and Ashley Peck of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 2 ozs. and 19 inches long. ***** Dawsen Robert, born at Pennock Hospital on April 29, 2012 at 8:07 a.m. to David White and Shannon Bush of Middleville. Weighing 8 lbs. 1/2 ozs. and 19 inches long. ***** Jaiden Ford, born at Pennock Hospital on May 2, 2012 at 2:40 p.m. to Donny and Kassie NOTICE J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Barry County Board of Commissioners will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, May 22, 2012 at 9:00 a.m., in the Commission Chamber, located on the Mezzanine level of the Courthouse, 220 W. State Street, Hastings, MI 49058, for the purpose of amending the Barry County Address Ordinance to reincorporate Section 3.04—Changing Existing Road Names, Section 4.03—Changing Address Numbers, and Section 4.04— Notice of Enforcement. To obtain a copy of the proposed amendments or 77567381 for more information contact (269)945-1284. 07567775 City of Hastings NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that the Planning Commission of the City of Hastings will hold a Public Hearing on Monday, June 4, 2012 at 7:00 PM in the City Hall Council Chambers, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. The purpose of the public hearing is for the Planning Commission to hear comments and make a determination on an amendment to the Code of Ordinances to allow wall signs on accessory buildings in the Industrial and Commercial Zoning Districts. Written comments will be received on the above request at Hastings City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 until 5:00 PM on the date of the hearing. Requests for information and/or minutes of said hearing should be directed to the Hastings City Clerk at the same address. The City will provide necessary reasonable aids and services upon five days notice to Hastings City Clerk (telephone number 269945-2468) or TDD call relay services 1-800-649-3777. Thomas E. Emery City Clerk City of Hastings NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that the Planning Commission of the City of Hastings will hold a Public Hearing on Monday, June 4, 2012 at 7:00 PM in the City Hall Council Chambers, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. The purpose of the public hearing is for the Planning Commission to hear comments and make a determination on an amendment to the Code of Ordinances to allow the keeping of chickens in certain residential zones. Written comments will be received on the above request at Hastings City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 until 5:00 PM on the date of the hearing. Requests for information and/or minutes of said hearing should be directed to the Hastings City Clerk at the same address. The City will provide necessary reasonable aids and services upon five days notice to Hastings City Clerk (telephone number 269945-2468) or TDD call relay services 1-800-649-3777. 77567849 Thomas E. Emery City Clerk Crater of Hastings. Weighing 6 lbs. 12 ozs. and 19 inches long. ***** Laney Alexis, born at Pennock Hospital on May 2, 2012 at 12:32 a.m. to Deanna Ogg and Brandon Awrey of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 5 ozs. and 19.5 inches long. ***** Lillian Grace, born at Pennock Hospital on May 5, 2012 at 3:04 a.m. to Taylor Clark and Douglas Smith of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 4 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Alexander Jeffery, born at Pennock Hospital on May 3, 2012 at 9:03 a.m. to Kevin and Heather Kaufman of Hastings. Weighing 3 lbs. 8 ozs. and 17.3 inches long. ***** See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. The minutes of the meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners held May 15, 2012, are available in the County Clerk’s Office at 220 W. State St., Hastings, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or www.barrycounty.org. 77567847 They operate a general farm and have a small dairy farm. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson have two children, Mrs. Roger (Margery) Fowler, 411 W. Mill Street, and Elmer, 27. Mrs. Johnson has a son by a former marriage, Frank Barkhuss of Kalamazoo. Newborn Babies City of Hastings NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON THE PROPOSED 2012/2013 FISCAL YEAR BUDGET The City of Hastings will hold a Public Hearing for the purpose of hearing written and/or oral comments from the public concerning the annual budget for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2013. The public hearing will be held at 7:00 PM on Tuesday, May 29, 2012 in the City Council Chambers on the second floor of City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. The City Council will consider the budget as proposed by the City Manager and presented to City Council on April 23, 2012. The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget will be a subject of this hearing. All interested citizens are encouraged to attend and to submit comments. A copy of this information, the entire proposed budget, and additional background materials are available for public inspection from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday at the Office of the City Clerk, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. The City will provide necessary reasonable aids and services upon five days notice to the City Clerk at 269.945.2468 or TDD call relay services 800.649-37777. Thomas E. Emery City Clerk 77567799 Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz revisited 12th Lucky Farmers are life-long Barry residents The operators of the 12th Barry County farm to be pictured in the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz should be well-known to many. They have lived their entire lives in the county. They are Mr. and Mrs. Hugh Johnson, who for the past 27 years have resided on the farm in Section 16 of Rutland Township [now part of Gun Ridge Golf Course] which was pictured in the aerial photo published in last week’s Banner. Since they were married, they have resided in Rutland Township. Prior to purchasing their present farm home with 80 acres from Bill Oaks, they had lived on the 90-acre farm formerly occupied by Hugh’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Franklin Johnson. The 90, where Hugh was born and which he and his wife bought from his folks, is located in Section 35 of Rutland [south of Podunk Lake]. They still work both places. �Page 10 — Thursday, May 17, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES GRAND & GRAND PLLC 31731 Northwestern Hwy, #115 Farmington Hills MI 48334 PURSUANT TO 15 USC §1692 YOU ARE HEREBY INFORMED THAT THIS IS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION THAT YOU PROVIDE MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the condition of a mortgage made by James W. Holes, an unmarried man to MERS, MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC by a mortgage dated May 23, 2008 and recorded on June 11, 2008 in instrument number 200806110006132, Barry County Records Michigan and assigned to BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO BAC HOME LOANS SERVICING, LP FKA COUNTYWIDE HOME LOANS SERVICING, LP by an assignment of mortgage dated November 15, 2011and recorded on November 22, 2011 in instrument number 201111220010962 Barry County Records Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-One Thousand Eight Hundred Ninety-Seven and 87/100 Dollars ($161,897.87) including interest at 6% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings; Michigan at 1:00 pm on June 14, 2012. Said premises are situated in the Township of Yankee, County of Barry State of Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner of Section 22, Town 3 North, Range 10 West, thence South 80 rods, thence East 8 rods, thence North 80 rods, thence west 8 rods to the place of beginning, except commencing at the Northwest corner of Section 22, Town 3 North, Range 10 West, thence East 8 rods, for the place of beginning, thence South 160 feet, thence West 60 feet, thence North 160 feet, thence East 60 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: May 8, 2012 Michael M. Grand, Esq. GRAND & GRAND PLLC 31731 Northwestern Hwy., #115 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 (248) 538-3737 75033 (05-10)(05-31) 77567687 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE — THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT; ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY SERVICE PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW. Notice under MCL 600.3278: Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale under MCL 600.3201 et. seq., the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. ATTENTION POTENTIAL PURCHASERS AT FORECLOSURE SALE: In the case of resolution prior to or simultaneously with the aforementioned foreclosure sale, U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate 2001-4, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents may rescind this sale at any time prior to the end of the redemption period. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited to the return of your bid amount tendered at the sale, plus interest. Default having occurred in the conditions of a Mortgage made by Jose H. Dominguez, Jr. and Doris A. Dominguez, husband and wife, ("Debtors") to Green Tree Servicing LLC (f/k/a Conseco Finance Servicing Corp.), dated August 3, 2001, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry in the State of Michigan on August 7, 2001, in Document Number 1064399, et. seq., and being re-recorded on September 26, 2001 in Document Number 1067187, et. seq., said Mortgage being last assigned to U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate 2001-4 ("Green Tree"), by Mortgage Assignment dated February 6, 2012, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry in the State of Michigan on February 13, 2012, in Document Number 201202130001530, et. seq., on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due as of the date of this Notice the sum of $132,202.45, which amount may or may not be the entire indebtedness owed by Debtors to Green Tree together with interest at 7.99 percent per annum. NOW THEREFORE, Notice is hereby given that the power of sale contained in said Mortgage has become operative and that pursuant to that power of sale and MCL 600.3201 et. seq., on June 14, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., on the East steps of the Circuit Court Building in Hastings, Michigan, that being the place for holding the Circuit Court and/or for conducting such foreclosure sales for the County of Barry, there will be offered at public sale, the premises, or some part thereof, described in said Mortgage as follows, to-wit: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF IRVING, COUNTY OF BARRY, STATE OF MICHIGAN, IS DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: PART OF THE WEST 1/2 OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 23, TOWN 4 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, DESCRIBED AS: BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE NORTH AND SOUTH 1/4 LINE OF SECTION 23, DISTANT SOUTH 01 DEGREES 30' 32" WEST, 1724.04 FEET FROM THE NORTH 1/4 CORNER OF SECTION 23 AND PROCEEDING THENCE SOUTH 88 DEGREES 35' 54" EAST, 1316.12 FEET PARALLEL WITH THE EAST AND WEST 1/4 LINE OF SECTION 23; THENCE SOUTH 01 DEGREES 26' 11" WEST, 364.00 FEET ALONG THE EAST 1/8 LINE; THENCE NORTH 88 DEGREES 35' 54" WEST, 1316.58 FEET; THENCE NORTH 01 DEGREES 30' 32" EAST, 364.00 FEET ALONG THE NORTH AND SOUTH 1/4 LINE TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. which also includes any interest Green Tree may have in the 2000 Century Mobile Home, Serial Number MYD153819ABF. The redemption period shall be six (6) months unless the property is established to be abandoned pursuant to MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of sale or fifteen (15) days from the date the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(b) was posted and mailed, or unless under MCL 600.3240(17), prior to the foreclosure sale the borrower follows the procedure set forth in that section to establish the presumption that the property is used for Agricultural purposes, in which case the redemption period shall be one (1) year from the date of the sale. Dated: May 8, 2012 U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate PassThrough Certificate 2001-4, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents By: DONALD A. BRANDT (P30183) BRANDT, FISHER, ALWARD & PEZZETTI, P.C. Attorneys for Green Tree 1241 E. Eighth Street, P.O. Box 5817 Traverse City, Michigan 49696-5817 (231) 941-9660 File No.: 6140.1075 Ad #28028 05/10, 05/17, 05/24, 05/31/2012 77567692 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Denise T. Wolthuis, an unmarried woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 3, 2003, and recorded on July 28, 2003 in instrument 1109473, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Nineteen Thousand Two Hundred Sixteen and 94/100 Dollars ($119,216.94). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 14, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner, Northwest 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 20, Town 1 North, Range 10 West, Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan; thence East 23 rods to the point of beginning; thence East 516 feet; thence South 693 feet; thence West 516 feet; thence North to the point of beginning The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 17, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #403177F01 77567875 (05-17)(06-07) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by DONALD NEVINS and CASSANDRA A. NEVINS, husband and wife, and ELIZABETH M. NEVINS, a single woman (collectively, "Mortgagor"), to SAND RIDGE BANK, an Indiana corporation, of PO Box 598, Schereville, Indiana 46375, dated June 3, 2004, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on June 20, 2004, as instrument number 1130137 (the “Mortgage”). First Financial Bank, N.A., a national association, of 300 High Street, PO Box 476, Hamilton, Ohio 45011-0476, was the successor by consolidation to Sand Ridge Bank, and subsequently assigned the Mortgage to CHEMICAL BANK, a Michigan banking corporation, having an office at 333 E. Main Street, Midland, Michigan 48640-6511 (the "Mortgagee"), by assignment dated February 28, 2012, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on March 2, 2012, as Instrument No. 201203020002168 (the "Mortgage"). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgagee is the owner of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Sixty Three Thousand Seven Hundred Fifty One and 96/100 Dollars ($63,751.96). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 14th day of June, 2012, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: Lot 669 of the City, formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof. Together with all the improvements erected on the real estate, and all easements, appurtenances, and fixtures a part of the property, and all replacements and additions. Commonly known as: 512 W. State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 P.P. #08-55-001-206-00 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys the premises at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee for damaging the premises during the redemption period. Dated: May 17, 2012 CHEMICAL BANK Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center, 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2487 (616) 752-2000 77567838 8206150-1 SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by ALAN E. ORSESKE, A MARRIED MAN and MELISSA S. ORSESKE, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated August 28, 2003, and recorded on October 10, 2003, in Document No. 1115342, and assigned by said mortgagee to GMAC MORTGAGE, LLC SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO GMAC MORTGAGE CORPORATION, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Five Thousand Eight Hundred Seventy-Seven Dollars and Thirty-Five Cents ($65,877.35), including interest at 6.500% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on June 14, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: THAT PART OF THE SOUTHWEST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 5, TOWN 1 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, DESCRIBED AS: A PARCEL OF LAND IN THE SOUTHWEST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 5, TOWN 1 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, DESCRIBED AS: COMMENCING AT A POINT 46.5 RODS EAST OF THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF THE SOUTHWEST 1 / 4 OF SAID SECTION 5, FOR THE PLACE OF BEGINNING, THENCE SOUTH 10 RODS, THENCE EAST 4 RODS, THENCE NORTH 10 RODS, THENCE WEST 4 RODS ALONG THE MIDDLE OF HIGHWAY TO PLACE OF BEGINNING. ALSO COMMENCING AT A POINT 46,5 RODS EAST AND 10 RODS SOUTH OF NORTHWEST CORNER OF THE SOUTHWEST 1 /4 OF SECTION 5 FOR THE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE SOUTH 20 RODS, THENCE EAST 4 RODS, THENCE NORTH 20 RODS, THENCE WEST 4 RODS TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. GMAC MORTGAGE, LLC SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO GMAC MORTGAGE CORPORATION Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 GMAC.012199 (0577567926 17)(06-07) SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by JEFFERY CHASE, A SINGLE MAN, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated May 17, 2007, and recorded on May 23, 2007, in Document No. 1180894, and assigned by said mortgagee to GMAC Mortgage, LLC successor by merger to GMAC Mortgage Corporation, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Twenty-One Thousand Three Hundred Seventy-Four Dollars and Eighty-One Cents ($221,374.81), including interest at 5.000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on June 7, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: PARCEL 1: A PARCEL OF LAND IN THE SOUTHWEST 1 / 4 OF THE NORTHWEST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 8, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 7 WEST, MAPLE GROVE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF THE SOUTHWEST 1 / 4 OF THE NORTHWEST 1 / 4 OF SAID SECTION 8; THENCE NORTH 88 DEGREES 31 MINUTES 15 SECONDS EAST 1320.80 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 00 DEGREES 04 MINUTES 40 SECONDS WEST 330 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 88 DEGREES 31 MINUTES 15 SECONDS WEST 1320.58 FEET TO THE WEST LINE OF SAID SECTION 8; THENCE DUE NORTH 330 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. PARCEL 2: A PARCEL OF LAND IN THE NORTHWEST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 8, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 7 WEST, MAPLE GROVE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE WEST LINE OF SAID SECTION 8 WHICH LIES 1488.25 FEET DUE SOUTH OF THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF SAID SECTION 8; THENCE NORTH 88 DEGREES 31 MINUTES 15 SECONDS EAST 1320.58 FEET TO THE WEST 1 / 8 LINE; THENCE SOUTH 00 DEGREES 04 MINUTES 40 SECONDS WEST 663.31 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 88 DEGREES 34 MINUTES WEST 1319.67 FEET; THENCE DUE NORTH 662.23 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. EXCEPT THE NORTH 165 FEET AND EXCEPT THE SOUTH 165 FEET OF THE ABOVE DESCRIBED PARCEL OF LAND. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. GMAC Mortgage, LLC successor by merger to GMAC Mortgage Corporation Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 GMAC.012202 (0510)(05-31) 77567717 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-26092-DE Estate of JULIA B. STEVENS. Date of birth: October 15, 1923. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, JULIA B. STEVENS, died March 11, 2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to LINDA C. SMEAD AND GARY STEVENS, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 WEST COURT, SUITE 302, HASTINGS, MI 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: May 11, 2012 DAVID H. TRIPP P29290 206 SOUTH BROADWAY HASTINGS, MI 49058 (269) 945-9585 LINDA C. SMEAD AND GARY STEVENS 10175 I DRIVE SOUTH, CERESCO, MI 49033 8499 MILLER RD., PO BOX 146 77567845 DELTON, MI 49046 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Lynne R. Miller, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated February 11, 2010, and recorded on February 18, 2010 in instrument 201002180001458, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Branch Banking and Trust Company as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Forty-Two Thousand Seven Hundred Fifty and 98/100 Dollars ($42,750.98). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 31, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 18, Cloverdale, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 30, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 3, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #397380F01 77567425 (05-03)(05-24) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Heather R. Tuffs and Jim Tuffs, wife and husband, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated June 14, 2005, and recorded on June 29, 2005 in instrument 1148767, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Four Thousand Six Hundred Fifty-Two and 62/100 Dollars ($104,652.62). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 24, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The East 1/2 of Lots 2 and 3 and all of Lot 7 of Block 25 of I.N. Keeler's Addition to the Village of Middleville, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 12, Barry County Records The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #395582F01 77567352 (04-26)(05-17) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Laura C. Miller, a single woman, to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., Mortgagee, dated April 13, 2007 and recorded April 25, 2007 in Instrument Number 1179727, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, successor by merger to Chase Home Finance LLC by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-One Thousand Seven Hundred Twenty-Eight and 81/100 Dollars ($131,728.81) including interest at 6.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on JUNE 14, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 66 of Middleville Downs Number 3, Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 26. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: May 17, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 310.8582 77567898 (05-17)(06-07) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Lindsey Bogerd, a single woman and Eric Smith, a single man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Quicken Loans Inc., its successors or assigns., Mortgagee, dated July 20, 2007 and recorded July 26, 2007 in Instrument Number 20070726-000177, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Bank of America, N.A. Successor by Merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP FKA Countywide Home Loans Servicing LP by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Three Hundred Forty-Nine Thousand Sixty-One and 73/100 Dollars ($349,061.73) including interest at 6.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on JUNE 14, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land located in the Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, State of Michigan, and described as follows: Lot 65 of Sunrise Shores #2, According to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plat on Page 98 Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: May 17, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 708.0721 77567913 (05-17)(06-07) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 17, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Kenneth Cogswell a married man and Holly Cogswell a married women, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated February 17, 2003, and recorded on March 14, 2003 in instrument 1099484, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Chase Home Finance, LLC as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Fifty-Eight Thousand Six Hundred SeventyNine and 15/100 Dollars ($58,679.15). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 24, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 30 and 31 of Hardendorf Addition to the Village of Nashville, according to the recorded Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 74. Also, The South 1/2 of Lots 32 and 33 of the Plat of the Hardendorf Addition to the Village of Nashville, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 74 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #399284F01 77567359 (04-26)(05-17) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by MICHAEL D. BRZYCKI a/k/a MICHAEL BRZYCKI and JACKI BRZYCKI, husband and wife (collectively, "Mortgagor"), to GREENSTONE FARM CREDIT SERVICES, FLCA, a federally chartered corporation, having an office at 3515 West Road, East Lansing, Michigan 48823 (the "Mortgagee"), dated October 9, 2006, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on October 16, 2006, as Instrument No. 1171473 (the "Mortgage"). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgagee is the owner of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage. Mortgage Electronic Registration System (MERS) is not the sole foreclosing party. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Sixty-Four Thousand One Hundred Fifty-Five and 20/100 Dollars ($64,155.20). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public venue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 31st day of May, 2012, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the Village of Nashville, Township of Castleton, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: The South 40 feet of Lot 16, except the East 44 feet thereof, Plat of the Village of Nashville, Village of Nashville, Castleton Township, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Barry County Records. Together with all fixtures, tenements, hereditaments, and appurtenances belonging or in any way appertaining to the premises. Commonly known as: 102 N. Main Street, Nashville, Michigan 49073 P.P. #08-52-000-016-00 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys the premises at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee for damaging the premises during the redemption period. Dated: May 3, 2012 GREENSTONE FARM CREDIT SERVICES, FLCA Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2487 (616) 752-2000 8276572-1 77567472 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Todd L. Porter, single man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated October 21, 2009 and recorded November 10, 2009 in Instrument Number 200911100010962, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Chase Home Finance LLC by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Five Thousand Four Hundred Sixty-One and 67/100 Dollars ($75,461.67) including interest at 5.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on JUNE 14, 2012. Said premises are located in the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 128, City of Hastings, according to the recorded Plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: May 17, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 682.0573 77567903 (05-17)(06-07) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by DOUGLAS R. BAKER and MELISSA M. BAKER, husband and wife (collectively, "Mortgagor"), to GREENSTONE FARM CREDIT SERVICES, FLCA, a federally chartered corporation, having an office at 3515 West Road, East Lansing, Michigan 48823 (the "Mortgagee"), dated September 20, 2007, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on September 24, 2007, as Instrument No. 20070924-0002334, as amended by an agreement for extension or reamortization dated October 1, 2009, recorded November 6, 2009 as Instrument No. 200911060010869, Barry County Records (the "Mortgage"). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgagee is the owner of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Eighty-Seven Thousand Eighty-One and 09/100 Dollars ($87,081.09). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public venue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 14th day of June, 2012, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the Townships of Orangeville and Hope, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: Parcel 1: Southeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4, Section 13, Town 2 North, Range 10 West, except Commencing at the Southeast corner thereof; thence West along East/West 1/4 line 271 feet for point of beginning; thence North parallel with the East line of Section 13, 450 feet thence West parallel with East/West 1/4 line 300 feet; thence South parallel with East Section line 450 feet; thence East 300 feet to point of beginning. Also except commencing at East 1/4 post of Section 13, Town 2 North, Range 10 West; thence North 89 degrees 32 minutes 43 seconds West on East and West 1/4 line 1328.08 feet; thence North 0 degrees 38 minutes 43 seconds East on North and South 1/8 line 475.00 feet to point of beginning of this exception; thence continuing North 0 degrees 32 minutes 43 seconds East 285 feet; thence South 89 degrees 17 minutes 17 seconds East 300 feet; thence South 0 degrees 32 minutes 43 seconds East 285 feet; thence North 89 degrees 27 minutes 17 seconds West 300 feet to point of beginning; also excepting Orangeville Township commencing at East 1/4 corner of Section 13, Town 2 North, Range 10 West; thence North 89 degrees 08 minutes 21 seconds West 571 feet; thence Northerly parallel with East line of said Section 450 feet to point of beginning; thence Southerly parallel with East line of said Section 450 feet to East/West 1/4 line; thence North 89 degrees 08 minutes 21 seconds West 757.08 feet; thence North 00 degrees 32 minutes 43 seconds East 475.00 feet; thence South 89 degrees 27 minutes 17 seconds East 756 feet more or less to a point thence lies Northerly parallel with East line of said Section from point of beginning; thence Southerly parallel with said East line said Section 29 feet more or less to point of beginning. Except commencing at the Southeast corner of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 13, Town 2 North, Range 10 West, Orangeville Township, Barry Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Stephen M. Beyer, Married Man, and Catherine Beyer, His Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 27, 2009, and recorded on September 2, 2009 in instrument 200909020008888, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ninety-One Thousand Nine Hundred Seventeen and 87/100 Dollars ($191,917.87). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 31, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel A: Beginning at a point on the North-South 1/4 line Section 26, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, Thornapple Township, Barry County, Michigan, distant South 00 degrees 27 minutes 36 seconds West, 845.29 feet from the North 1/4 corner of said Section; thence North 80 degrees 42 minutes 21 seconds East, 801.52 feet to the centerline of Irving Road; thence South 41 degrees 29 minutes 30 seconds East, 449.81 feet along said centerline; thence South 43 degrees 36 minutes 25 seconds East, 50.12 feet along said centerline; thence South 48 degrees 30 minutes 30 seconds West 1513.35 feet to the North-South 1/4 line of said Section; thence North 00 degrees 27 minutes 36 seconds East, 1246.43 feet along said 1/4 line to the Point of Beginning. Subject to an easement for public highway purposes over the Northeasterly 33.00 feet thereof for Irving Road, and any other easements of restrictions of record. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 3, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #399782F01 77567400 (05-03)(05-24) County, Michigan; thence North 89 degrees 08 minutes 21 seconds West, on the East and West 1/4 line, 571.00 feet; thence North 0 degrees 24 minutes 49 seconds East, parallel with the East Section line, 475.00 feet to the point of beginning of the Parcel of land herein described; thence North 89 degrees 27 minutes 17 seconds West, 455.92 feet; thence North 0 degrees 32 minutes 43 seconds East, parallel with the North and South 1/8 line of said Northeast 1/4, 285.00 feet; thence North 89 degrees 27 minutes 17 seconds West, 300.00 feet to said 1/8 line; thence North 0 degrees 32 minutes 43 seconds East, on said 1/8 line, 100.19 feet; thence South 89 degrees 07 minutes 25 seconds East, 755.02 feet; thence South 0 degrees 24 minutes 49 seconds West, parallel with the East Section line, 410.00 feet to the point of beginning. Also Except commencing at the Southeast corner of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 13, Town 2 North, Range 10 West; thence North 89 degrees 08 minutes 21 seconds West, on the East and West 1/4 line, 271.00 feet; thence North 0 degrees 24 minutes 49 seconds East, parallel with the East Section line, 450.00 feet to the point of beginning of the parcel of land herein described; thence North 89 degrees 08 minutes 21 seconds West, parallel with the East and West 1/4 line, 300.00 feet; thence North 0 degrees 24 minutes 49 seconds East, parallel with the East Section line, 410.00 feet; thence South 89 degrees 08 minutes 21 seconds East, parallel with the East and West 1/4 line, 300.00 feet; thence South 0 degrees 24 minutes 49 seconds West, parallel with the East Section line, 410.00 feet to the point of beginning. Parcel 2: Parcel in Section 18, Hope Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner Section 18, Town 2 North, Range 9 West; thence North 88 degrees 51 minutes 14 seconds East 440 feet along the North line; thence South 1 degrees 8 minutes 46 seconds East 1833.47 feet; thence South 88 degrees 51 minutes 14 seconds West 427.09 feet to the West line of Section 18; thence North 1 degrees 32 minutes 58 seconds West 1833.52 feet along West line to point of beginning. Together with all fixtures, tenements, hereditaments, and appurtenances belonging or in any way appertaining to the premises. Commonly known as: vacant land on Keller Road, Delton, Michigan 49046 P.P. #08-11-013-011-00 (Parcel 1) and 08-07-018-218-05, 08-07-018-218-10 and 08-07-018-218-20 (Parcel 2) Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys the premises at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee for damaging the premises during the redemption period. Dated: May 17, 2012 GREENSTONE FARM CREDIT SERVICES, FLCA Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2487 (616) 752-2000 8302855-1 77567819 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Mitchell L. Phelps, a married man and Theresa Phelps, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Lake Michigan Credit Union, Mortgagee, dated July 24, 2007, and recorded on July 31, 2007 in instrument 200707310000343, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Four Thousand One Hundred Seventeen and 74/100 Dollars ($94,117.74). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 24, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A Parcel of land on the Northeast 1/4 of Section 14, Town 4 North, Range 8 West, commencing at the Northeast corner of the Northwest 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4; Section 14; thence South 666 feet for the place of beginning, thence West 175 feet; thence South 200 feet; thence East 175 feet; thence North 200 feet, to the place of beginning. And Commencing at the North 1/4 corner of Section 14, Town 4 North, Range 8 West, Carlton Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East, 1056.00 feet along the North line of said Section;thence South 666 feet for the place of beginning thence South 00 degrees 46 minutes 27 seconds East, 89.00 feet; thence South 00 degrees 46 minutes 27 seconds West, 200.00 feet; thence South 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West, 89 feet; thence North 00 degrees 46 minutes 27 seconds East, 200 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #398935F01 77567262 (04-26)(05-17) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by OWEN J. SABIN and CARLEEN R. SABIN, husband and wife (collectively “Mortgagor”), to FIFTH THIRD BANK an Ohio banking corporation having its principal office at 111 Lyon Street, NW, Suite 900, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503, (the “Mortgagee”), dated December 17, 2003 and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on January 2, 2004, in Instrument No. 1120158 as modified in Instrument No. 1162170 (collectively the “Mortgage”). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Two Hundred Thirty-Seven Two Hundred Thirty-Four and 00/100 Dollars ($237,234.00). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the Barry County Courthouse located in the City of Hastings, Michigan on Thursday, June 7, 2012, at 1:00 o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the Township of Yankee Springs, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: Begin 100.0 feet North of the South 1/4 post of Section 8, Town 3 North, Range 10 West, Yankee Springs Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence South 89 degrees 40 minutes West 738.15 feet to the center of creek; thence North 12 degrees 12 minutes West 336.0 feet along center of creek to a 4" concrete monument which is set in the bank about 20 feet East of the center of creek (center of creek is to be the boundary line, however); thence North 54 degrees 12 minutes West 166.10 feet along center of creek to an iron under an old foot bridge; thence North 23 degrees 06 minutes West 311.8 feet along center of creek to a 4" diameter concrete monument; thence South 65 degrees 07 minutes West 39.4 feet; thence North 23 degrees 06 minutes West 93.00 feet to the edge of the Mill Pond; thence North 59 degrees 10 minutes East 70.0 feet along edge of Mill Pond; thence North 21 degrees 51 minutes East 42.0 feet; thence North 19 degrees 31 minutes West 44.0 feet to the edge of the Mill Pond; thence North 54 degrees 07 minutes West 15.15 feet to a 4" diameter concrete monument a few feet from edge of Mill Pond and is the South boundary of the Springer (O'Dell) property; thence North 71 degrees 02 minutes East 163.6 feet to the center of public road which leads from the North to Bowens Mill; thence North 05 degrees 52 minutes 30 seconds East 104.37 feet; thence South 84 degrees 07 minutes 30 seconds East 206.0 feet; thence North 06 degrees 45 minutes East 377.6 feet; thence South 77 degrees 26 minutes East 342.07 feet; thence South 75 degrees East 350.46 feet; thence South 1249.50 feet along the North-South 1/4 line of said Section 8 to the Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Carol L Anglemyer, and Edward F. Akin, as joint tenants with Full rights of Survivorship, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated June 18, 2003, and recorded on June 26, 2003 in instrument 1107200, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Four Thousand Seven Hundred Seventy-Five and 96/100 Dollars ($74,775.96). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 31, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Delton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land in the Northwest 1/4 of Section 20, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, described as: Beginning at the intersection of the North line of Guernsey Lake Road and the West line of Pike Road as Platted in the Plat of Diana Shores, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats on Page 24; Thence South 01 degrees 06 minutes East 33.00 feet to the centerline of Guernsey Lake Road, said Centerline Also Being the East and West 1/4 Line of said Section 20; thence North 89 Degrees 45 minutes West along said East and West 1/4 Line a distance of 261.50 feet; Thence North 01 Degrees 06 minutes West 407.00 feet; Thence South 89 Degrees 45 minutes East 261.50 feet to the West line of said Pike Road; Thence South 01 Degrees 06 minutes East along said West line 374.00 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 3, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #400120F01 77567406 (05-03)(05-24) place of beginning. Subject to an easement over the East 33 feet for highway purposes. Also all land along the Mill Pond between the markers and edge of the Mill Pond is part of this conveyance and all land along the East side of the creek between the markers and the creek is part of this conveyance, excepting therefrom commencing at the South 1/4 post of Section 8, Town 3 North, Range 10 West; thence North 1097.75 feet for a place of beginning; thence North 251.75 feet; thence North 75 degrees West 350.46 feet; thence North 77 degrees 26 minutes West 342.07 feet; thence South 06 degrees 45 minutes West 251.75 feet, (Bowens Mills Church Property); thence Southeasterly in a straight line to the place of beginning. Subject to an easement over the East 33 feet of this description along Briggs Road for public highway purposes, also excepting therefrom the South 488 feet thereof. Together with all of the estate, title and interest of Mortgagor, in law or equity, of, in and to such real estate and the buildings and improvements now existing, being constructed, or hereafter constructed or placed thereon, all of the rights, privileges, licenses, easements and appurtenances belonging to such real estate (including - all heretofore or hereafter vacated streets or alleys which are about such real estate), and all fixtures of every kind whatsoever located in or on, or attached to, and used or intended to be used in connection with or with the operation of such real estate, buildings, structures or other improvements thereon or in connection with any construction now or to be conducted or which may be conducted thereon, together with all building materials and equipment now or hereafter delivered to such real estate and intended to be installed therein; any rental revenues, payments, repayments. income, profits, charges. accounts, general intangibles, and moneys derived by Mortgagor (from the lease, sublease, sale, rental or other disposition of the Property, including, but not limited to, all rights conferred by Act No. 210 of the Michigan Public Acts of 1953, as amended (MCLA 554.231 et seq.), and Act No. 228 of the Michigan Public Acts of 1925 as amended (MCLA 554.211 et seq.) Commonly known as: 200 Old Mill Road, Middleville, Michigan P.P. # 08-16-008-020-50 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) stating that the premises are considered abandoned unless Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them gives the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys the premises at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee for damaging the premises during the redemption period. Dated: May 3, 2012 FIFTH THIRD BANK Mortgagee Jeffrey O. Birkhold WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2489 (616) 752-2000 8276021 77567517 �Page 12 — Thursday, May 17, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Darla L Slumkoski, a single woman individual, original mortgagor(s), to Arbor Mortgage, Mortgagee, dated May 31, 2007, and recorded on June 6, 2007 in instrument 1181356, and assigned by mesne assignments to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Nine Thousand Nine Hundred Twenty-Seven and 42/100 Dollars ($139,927.42). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 7, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at a point 4 rods East of the Southeast corner of lot 45 of the Village of Delton, for place of beginning; thence East 8 rods; thence North 4 rods; thence West 8 rods; thence South 4 rods to place of beginning, all being in the Northwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of section 5, Town 1 North, Range 9 West The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 10, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #276109F02 (05-10)(05-31) 77567647 MORTGAGE SALE This is an attempt to collect a debt, and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by JEFFREY L. WILLIAMS and JAMIE L. SANMIGUEL, husband and wife, Mortgagors, to MERCANTILE BANK MORTGAGE COMPANY, LLC, having its principal office at 310 Leonard Street NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504, Mortgagee, dated December 4, 2007 and recorded December 21, 2007 in Instrument No. 20071221-0005432 of Mortgages. By reason of such default the undersigned elects to declare the entire unpaid amount of said mortgage due and payable forthwith. At the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on said mortgage the sum of TWO HUNDRED TWENTY THREE THOUSAND SEVEN HUNDRED SEVENTY SIX AND 88/100 ($223,776.88) dollars, including interest at the rate of 7% per annum. No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided and to pay said amount with interest as provided in said mortgage, and all legal costs, charges, and expenses, including attorney fees allowed by law, said mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the east door of the Barry County Courthouse, the place of holding the Circuit Court within the County of Barry, City of Hastings, Michigan, on May 31, 2012, at 1:00 p.m., local time. Pursuant to Public Act No. 104, Public Acts of 1971 [MCLA 600.3240(8), MSA 27A.3240(8)] the redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of the foreclosure sale, unless the property is determined to be abandoned under MCLA 600.3241a; MSA 27A.3241(1), in which case the property may be redeemed during the 30 days immediately following the sale or expiration of statutory notice period or expiration of statutory notice period. The premises covered by said mortgage are situated in the Township of Orangeville, County of Barry, State of Michigan, described as follows, to wit: Lots 132 and 133, Lynden Johncock Plat No. 1, Gun Lake, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats, Page 93, records of Barry County. MERCANTILE BANK MORTGAGE COMPANY, LLC Mortgagee SCHENK BONCHER & RYPMA Gary P. Schenk P19970 601 Three Mile Road, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49544-1601 (616) 647-8277 77567310 AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTIFY US AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by Michael C Dunlap , a married man, Mortgagors, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc (MERS) as nominee for Providence Mortgage Company, Mortgagee, dated the 22nd day of February, 2008 and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, for The County of Barry and State of Michigan, on the 3rd day of March, 2008 in Liber instrument No. 20080303-0001940 of Barry County Records, page , said Mortgage having been assigned to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. on which mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, the sum of One Hundred Four Thousand Six Hundred Forty and 34/100 ($104,640.34), and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on the 7th day of June, 2012 at 1:00 o’clock PM Local Time, said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI (that being the building where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held), of the premises described in said mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due, as aforesaid on said mortgage, with interest thereon at 5.875% per annum and all legal costs, charges, and expenses, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sum or sums which may be paid by the undersigned, necessary to protect its interest in the premises. Which said premises are described as follows: All that certain piece or parcel of land, including any and all structures, and homes, manufactured or otherwise, located thereon, situated in the Village of Nashville, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and described as follows, to wit: Lot 85 of Mix Addition to Nashville, according to the plat thereof recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, page 69 of Barry County Records. During the six (6) months immediately following the sale, the property may be redeemed, except that in the event that the property is determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241a, the property may be redeemed during 30 days immediately following the sale. Pursuant to MCLA 600.3278, the mortgagor(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 5/10/2012 JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Mortgagee ____________ FABRIZIO & BROOK, P.C. Attorney for JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. 888 W. Big Beaver, Suite 800 Troy, Ml 48084 248-362-2600 CHASE FHA GNMA DUNLAP (05-10)(05-31) 77567673 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Michael J. Speck, a single man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 23, 2006, and recorded on January 25, 2006 in instrument 1159334, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Wells Fargo Bank, NA as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Seven Thousand Seven Hundred Twenty-Four and 32/100 Dollars ($97,724.32). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 14, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at a point 18 rods 7 1/2 feet East from the Southwest corner of Section 18, Town 2 North, Range 10 West; thence North 20 rods; thence East 16 rods; thence South 20 rods; thence West 16 rods to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 17, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #347952F02 77567832 (05-17)(06-07) SOUTHWEST BARRY COUNTY SEWER AND WATER AUTHORITY REGULAR BOARD MEETING SCHEDULE April 2012 - April 2013 Tuesday – April 24, 2012 Tuesday - June 26, 2012 Tuesday - August 28, 2012 Tuesday - October 23, 2012 Tuesday - January 22, 2013 Tuesday - March 26, 2013 Tuesday - April 23, 2013 MEETINGS ARE HELD AT: THE BARRY TOWNSHIP HALL 155 E. ORCHARD, DELTON, MI ALL MEETINGS BEGIN AT 7:00 P.M. THIS NOTICE IS POSTED IN THE COMPLIANCE WITH THE OPEN MEETINGS ACT, PUBLIC ACT 267 OF 1976, AS AMENDED. ALL MEETING DATES AND TIMES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. 77567861 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Michele R. Cady, a married woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 25, 2005, and recorded on August 17, 2005 in instrument 1151282, and assigned by said Mortgagee to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Three Thousand Four Hundred Sixteen and 48/100 Dollars ($93,416.48). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 7, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The East 1/2 of Lots 62 and 63, Q.A. Phillips Addition to the Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan as recorded in Liber 1, Page 38, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 10, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #348982F03 (05-10)(05-31) 77567641 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Daryl R. Hamel and Nancy C. Hamel, as joint tenants., to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns., Mortgagee, dated November 15, 2006 and recorded November 28, 2006 in Instrument Number 1173169, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by The Bank of New York Mellon FKA The Bank of New York, as Trustee for the certificateholders of the CWABS, Inc., Asset-backed Certificates, Series 2006-25 by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of SixtyThree Thousand Forty-One and 86/100 Dollars ($63,041.86) including interest at 8.2% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on JUNE 14, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Hasting, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land located in the Township of Hastings, Barry County, State of Michigan, and described as follows: The North 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 4, Town 3 North, Range 8 West. Except: Commencing at the Northeast corner of the North 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of said Section 4; thence West 798 feet; thence South 660 feet; thence East 798 feet; thence North 660 feet to the place of beginning. Also Except: Commencing at the intersection of State Highway M-43 and The County Highway, known as, Barber Road; thence North 424 feet; thence due East to the center of M-43; thence Southwesterly along said centerline to the place of beginning. Also Except: Commencing at the North 1/4 post of said section; thence East along the North section line 135 feet; thence South parallel with the North and South 1/4 line 231 feet; thence West 135 feet to the North and South 1/4 line; thence Northerly along said North and South 1/4 line 231 feet to the Place of Beginning. Also Except: Commencing at a point 798 feet West of the Northeast corner of the North 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of said Section 4; thence South 40 rods; thence West 450 feet, more of less, to Coats Grove Road; thence following said road to the Place of Beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: May 17, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 347.0322 77567908 (05-17)(06-07) Synopsis Hastings Charter Township Regular Meeting May 8, 2012 Meeting called to order at 7:00 pm Pledge and roll call Seven board members present, 4 guests attended Presentation by Evelyn Holzwarth from Hastings Public Library Approved April minutes & Various dept. reports Commissioner’s report rec’d Treasurer’s report approved Clerk- voter ID card mass mailing Poverty Exemption documentation Sewer Agreement Amendment Mill St dust control Amend Road budget Liability Insurance renewal Approved payment of warrants Board member comments Public comment Approved motion to adjourn 9:08 pm Read full minutes on twp. website Respectfully submitted, Anita S. Mennell - Clerk Attested to by 77567896 Jim Brown – Supervisor Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Mark A Edgar and Brenda K Edger, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated September 18, 2008, and recorded on October 7, 2008 in instrument 20081007-0009809, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Wells Fargo Bank, NA as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Forty-Three Thousand Four Hundred Fifty-One and 64/100 Dollars ($143,451.64). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 31, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 1203, Original Plan of the Village (Now City) of Hastings, according to the plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 3, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #290575F02 77567467 (05-03)(05-24) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Stacy L. Johnson and Dean R. Johnson wife and husband, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated December 28, 2007, and recorded on January 2, 2008 in instrument 20080102-0000107, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Flagstar Bank, FSB as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixteen Thousand Two Hundred Seventy-Four and 07/100 Dollars ($116,274.07). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 31, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The West 57 feet of Lots 4 and 5, and the West 56 feet of Lot 3, all in Block 3, of A.W. Phillips Addition to the Village of Nashville, according to the recorded Plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 3, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #297864F02 77567412 (05-03)(05-24) NOTICE TO ALL CREDITORS: The Settlors, Harry H. Tabberer (date of birth February 25, 1921) and Grace G. Tabberer (date of birth January 9, 1917), lived at 5223 Youngman Rd., Lakeview, Michigan 48850, Harry H. Tabberer died December 11, 2009 and Grace G. Tabberer died April 23, 2012. There is no personal representative of the Settlors’ estates to whom Letters of Administration have been issued. Creditors of the decedents are notified that all claims against the Harry H. Tabberer and Grace G. Tabberer Revocable Trust, dated September 3, 1993, as amended, will be forever barred unless presented to Victor P. Priester, co-Trustee or Frederick T. Tabberer, coTrustee, within four months after the date of publication. Notice is further given that the Trust will thereafter be assigned and distributed to the persons entitled to it. Date: May 14, 2012 John N. Lewis (P38313) Attorney and Counselor 8042 W. Snows Lake Rd. Greenville, Michigan 48838 (616) 754-0428 Victor P. Priester Frederick T. Tabberer Co-Trustee Co-Trustee 10870 Lincoln Lake Rd. NE 10975 - 92nd St., SE Greenville, Michigan 48838 Alto, Michigan 49301 77567859 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Joan Patricia Leos, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Lansing Automakers Federal CU, Mortgagee, dated August 27, 2002, and recorded on September 6, 2002 in instrument 1086940, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Six Thousand Seventy-Eight and 99/100 Dollars ($86,078.99). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 7, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Woodland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 7 and 8 of Block 9 of the Village of Woodland, according to the recorded Plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 10, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #383088F01 (05-10)(05-31) 77567656 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Kyle Main, single man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 1, 2005, and recorded on July 6, 2005 in instrument 1149102, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Flagstar Bank, FSB as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fourteen Thousand One Hundred NinetyOne and 34/100 Dollars ($114,191.34). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 24, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Baltimore, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel 1: Beginning 8 rods East of the Southwest corner of Section 34, Town 2 North, Range 8 West, Baltimore Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence North 40 Rods, thence East 4 Rods; thence South 40 rods, thence West 4 rods to the place of beginning Parcel 2: Beginning 12 rods East of the Southwest corner of Section 34, Town 2 North, Range 8 West, Baltimore Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence North 40 rods, thence East 4 Rods; thence South 40 rods; thence West 4 rods to the place of beginning The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #274135F02 77567256 (04-26)(05-17) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 17, 2012 — Page 13 Michigan State Police stopped a vehicle May 10 on M-37 near Culver Road for an equipment violation and obstructed registration plate. The trooper subsequently detected an odor of marijuana and reported that the driver may have been under the influence of drugs. The driver was an18-year-old Bellevue man who was arrested for possession of marijuana, operating under the influence of a controlled substance, and possession of marijuana with the intent to deliver. Cramping and crashing A 23-year-old Delton woman drove into the rear of a Manitou farm tractor May 11, which was operated by a 24-year-old Battle Creek man. Michigan State Police responded to the accident on M-37 and Hickory Road. The woman, driving a Kia Sportage, stated she removed her seat belt to lean down and rub her cramping leg when the crash occurred. She was transported by ambulance to Bronson Hospital and cited for careless driving. The man driving the tractor was not injured in the crash. Joy ride may end up on the jail side Hastings Police received a report of larceny from a building and theft of an automobile, on the morning of May 9. A 55year-old resident of Hanna Lane said her home had been entered sometime during the night and she was missing a sum of money. The victim also noticed her car keys were missing. She then noted the car was also missing. The missing car is described a 1989 Chevrolet Caprice, maroon color, with gray hubcaps. The home owner’s grandson is suspected of taking both cash and car, since there is a history of the boy taking things. The suspect is a 17-year-old Hastings male. Punchy now in probate Hastings Officers received a report, on May 9, of an alleged assault occurring on South Washington Street. Officers met with the victim of the assault at Pennock Urgent Care Clinic on West State Street. The alleged victim had just received medical care for his injuries. Officers were informed several subjects were occupying a residence when one subject punched the 15-year-old victim. The suspect is a 16-year-old from Hastings. Following the report being reviewed by the Prosecutors office, an arrest warrant was issued for aggravated assault. The suspect will appear in Barry County Probate Court due to his minor status. Took a trip and never left the Honda Hastings Officers were dispatched May 9, to a possible drunk driver heading into Hastings on East State Street. Officers located the “black Honda” at the intersection of State Street and Boltwood. After observing the driving ability of the vehicle’s operator, a traffic stop was made at West State Street and Church Street. The 33-yearold Springfield woman was asked to perform field sobriety tests, and failed her portable breathalyzer test. She was then arrested and will be charged with operating with a high blood alcohol level after tests revealed .17 percent blood alcohol level. Nowhere to run On May 10, Hastings Officers were dispatched to North East Street for a reported domestic assault in progress. Upon arrival, officers overheard what sounded like someone being thrown around inside the apartment, and were familiar with the apartment having been there several times before. After gaining the occupants attention and having them answer the door, reportedly, a 20-year-old female had assaulted a 19-yearold male. Reportedly, the male occupant had attempted to leave the apartment several times, including attempts at jumping from a second story window to escape the argument. The Hastings woman was taken into custody for domestic assault. He’s my boyfriend and I’m not going to take it anymore Barry County Deputies responded to the Cedar Creek Grocery, on May 12, in response to an assault and battery complaint. The complainant reported being attacked by her ex-husband’s girlfriend who had left the scene. According to the alleged victim, she had entered the store to buy a pop and was told the girlfriend was in the store’s bathroom. She told deputies when she went to the cooler the 32-year-old Delton woman left the store without incident. When the complainant approached the counter to pay for her purchase, the girlfriend re-entered the store and confronted her about bother her ex-husband and, reportedly, back-handed her across the face. She reported being punched 10 times before leaving the scene. The victim reported being hit in the nose, lip, cheek, and in the back of the head. She was also missing a clump of hair. The store employee, who tried to break up the fight, reported being hit by the suspect at least two times. The employee said the incident was possibly captured on surveillance video. Deputies located the suspect at a nearby residence. The woman told deputies she “had lost it” and wasn’t going to take it anymore. She had reported the complainant messing with her ex-husband and “that was enough,” if the police wouldn’t do something she would and did. The Delton woman was taken into custody for assault and battery with the report forwarded to the Prosecutor’s Office. Shoplifting for filtered water On May 11, deputies were called to the Hastings Walmart in response to two females stopped for shoplifting. Store employees detained a 43-year-old Dowling woman and a 31-year-old Hastings woman. The Hastings woman was stopped before leaving the store with merchandise, but the Dowling woman was unable to be stopped before leaving with merchandise. However, employees watched the woman get into a vehicle put the items into a Walmart bag and re-enter the store. She then tried to return the items for $47 in cash or a gift card. The Hastings woman told deputies she was stealing the $77 in items because she was pregnant and unemployed. Stolen items included water filters, clothing, glue, automotive supplies and jig saw blades. Both women were arrested for retail fraud. At booking the Hastings woman admitted she was using a false name and was also charged with providing false information to a police officer. A little gas could lead to a lot of time Deputies were dispatched just after midnight May 2, to a burglary in progress on South Charlton Park Road. Upon arrival at the scene, deputies noticed a small maroon Chevy pickup parked near the house, but on the shoulder of the road. While searching the perimeter, the deputy found a man laying underneath a truck near a pole barn. Reportedly, the man had a rubber hose in his hand and a gasoline container. When asked what he was doing, the man stated he was only getting some gas to drive into town. The man was arrested on charges of breaking and entering with intent, possession of burglary tools, and larceny from a motor vehicle. GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. This is the time of year when words such as tassel, mortarboard, pomp and circumstance become more frequent in conversation. In the coming weeks, several hundred area high school seniors will cross platforms in a symbolic move from childhood and high school into adulthood, college, the military, working world or other chosen paths. Following is information on graduationrelated ceremonies at area schools. Thornapple Kellogg The seniors honors program will be at 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 22. Commencement will follow Thursday, May 24, at 7 p.m. at Bob White Stadium, weather permitting. Lakewood Baccalaureate is Sunday, May 20. Honors night will be Monday, May, 21, and graduation will be Thursday, May 24. Lakewood commencement ceremonies will be at the football stadium, weather permitting. Hastings Hastings High School will conduct its honors night assembly for the Class of 2012 at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 24, and commencement exercises at 7 p.m. Friday, May 25. Both ceremonies will be held in the high school gymnasium. Maple Valley Honors night will be Monday, May 21, at 7 p.m. Alternative education graduation ceremonies will be Tuesday, May 29, at 7 p.m. Baccalaureate will be Thursday, May 31, at 7 p.m., followed by graduation Friday, June 1, at 7 p.m. Delton Kellogg Senior Tribute will be at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 6, in the gymnasium. Commencement will be Sunday, June 10, at 2 p.m. in the gymnasium. Baccalaureate will follow at 7 p.m. at a site that is to be determined. COURT NEWS Travis Gordon Rybiski, 21, of Hastings was sentenced May 9 for possession of marijuana and larceny of a building. He was ordered to serve 178 days in jail, with credit for 178 days served. He must pay $135 a month toward $1,423 in court assessments and serve 18 months on probation. Charges of safe breaking and breaking and entering with intent were dropped. LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Dennis Ayers, a married man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 9, 2004, and recorded on July 20, 2004 in instrument 1131097, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Wells Fargo Bank, NA as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fifty-Three Thousand Three Hundred Seventy-Six and 90/100 Dollars ($153,376.90). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 24, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That part of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 17, Town 3 North, Range 10 West, Yankee Springs Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as : Commencing at the West 1/4 corner of said Section; thence North 89 degrees 40 minutes 09 seconds East 300.0 feet along the South line of said Northwest 1/4 to the place of beginning; thence North 89 degrees 40 minutes 09 seconds East 200.0 feet along said South line; thence North 00 degrees 44 minutes West 627.11 feet parallel with the West line of said Northwest 1/4; thence South 88 degrees 02 minutes 54 seconds West 200.04 feet; thencee South 00 degrees 44 minutes East 621.45 feet to the place of beginning The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #399501F01 77567268 (04-26)(05-17) CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 For Sale Automotive Business Services AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 2004 GMC SIERRA Z-71 extended cab, leather, loaded with all available options, great condition, 160,000 miles. Asking $10,000 obo. Call (269)948-0502. BASEMENT WATERPROOFING: PROFESSIONAL BASEMENT SERVICES waterproofing, crack repair, mold remediation. 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(269)945-5383 ROTOTILLING: LOW DOES NOT KNOWINGLY RATES, will haul black dirt, accept advertising which is ROY HALL’S AUTO DEwood chips. Little Luggers deceptive, fraudulent or TAILING: 25 years serving Hauling. (269)908-0567, might otherwise violate law Barry County, (269)948-8377. (269)804-6027. or accepted standards of taste. However, this publicaReal Estate For Rent tion does not warrant or 5+ BEAUTIFULLY WOOD2 BEDROOM HOUSE: for guarantee the accuracy of ED acres 5 miles to Torch rent $600 a month. Leave a any advertisement, nor the Lake. Paved road, undervoice mail or txt. (269)945- quality of goods or services ground electric and teleadvertised. Readers are cau3954 tioned to thoroughly investi- phone, clearing camping or gate all claims made in any building site. $29,900, low SMOKE FREE 1 BDRM owner financing. advertisements, and to use down, Low income housing for www.northernlandco.com, good judgment and reasonathose age 50 and over. ble care, particularly when Northern Land Company. Friends and fun events! dealing with persons un- (231)258-5100. Potlucks, bowling, cards... known to you ask for money Rent based on income. Help Wanted in advance of delivery of Call Lincoln Meadow EHO goods or services advertised. 25 DRIVER TRAINEES (269)795-7715 M-F 9-4 Needed NOW! Become a driver for Card of Thanks Garage Sale Schneider National! CARD OF THANKS 2 FAMILY SALE: May 17th, Earn $750 per week! We would like to give a 18th, & 19th. Many new No experience needed! special thank you to Dr. items. Something for everyLocal CDL Training! Scott Brasseur, M.D. office one. Come & browse. 825 N. Job ready in 15 days! staff, Pennock Hospital ER East St. Sec. 2 1-877-649-2697. Dr. Amy Poholski, D.O. and staff and Dr. Matt Garber, HUGE POLE BARN SALE! Community Notices M.D. and ICU staff for Lots of tools, many are ALGONQUIN LAKE Craftsman. Generators, band the care given Nancy StoneWEED TREATMENT. THE house during her serious saws, circular saws, air guns, FIRST TREATMENT FOR health problems, you all too many to mention! Also WEED GROWTH AND did you very best you several long guns. Thurs., POSSIBLY ALGAE could do for her. Fri., Sat., May 17th, 18th, 19th, 9am-5pm. 5538 E. Or- We wish a special thank you SHOULD BE SOMETIME AFTER MONDAY, MAY to the Girrbach Funeral chard, Delton. 6/10 of a mile 7TH DEPENDING ON Home and staff for the east of downtown Delton. LAKE CONDITIONS. funeral preparations and Call for better directions PLEASE WATCH FOR services afterwards. (269)209-5064 or (269)623We want to thank the Grace ANY NOTICES POSTED 5983 ON THE SHORELINE, ESLutheran Church and MULTI-FAMILY GARAGE PECIALLY IN REGARDS congregation for the servSALE: May 17th & 18th TO WATER RESTRICices, also thanks to Charles 9am-5pm. Furniture, exerTIONS. ALSO WATCH Converse, Jr. for the great cise equipment, home school FOR OTHER TREATpresentation and the music items, sewing & craft items, by organist Cindy Olson and MENTS AS THE SPRING pool chemicals & toys & all the kitchen staff that put AND SUMMER GO ON. much much more. 880 Mixer on the wonderful luncheon. VENDORS WANTED for Rd., Hastings. We wish to thank you all flea market every who participated in the Friday/Saturday. Four acres YARD SALE: 1012 N. Ferris services, the flowers, of parking! Concession trailSt., Thursday noon-5pm, Fridonations and cards. er on site. Call 517-667-6866. day 9am-5pm, Saturday She was a very outgoing 9am-3pm. Nice kids clothes, person and she is going to be vintage Schwinn bike, hobby greatly missed by her family, Recreation wood, entertainment center relatives and close friends WANTED HUNTING & lots of misc. items. Sec. 2 and the Starr School stuLAND: (2) Families are indents, foster grandparents terested in leasing acreage YARD SALE: SAT. 5/19, and staff. for this years deer season. Sun. 5/20, 9am-6pm, 135 W. She now has no pain and Call (269)795-3049 Bond Street. Lots of boys suffering and she is on her clothes up to size 4, lots of journey to the Lord above, Wanted ladies clothes, miscellane- God bless you all and thanks BUYING OLD POCKET ous. Section 3 for being part of her life watches, old wind up wrist and ours. Automotive Jerry Knickerbocker and the watches, working or not working. Call George Nancy Stonehouse family ‘98 OLDS INTRIGUE GLS: (616)916-8271 leather, sunroof, 130k miles, THANK YOU $1,500, (616)304-2195 BUYING WWII, WWI, Civil I was truly blessed with a War uniforms, weapons, hel90th birthday that my dear HASTINGS BANNER mets, bayonets, German, family planned for me, for SUBSCRIPTIONS are Japanese, and American. all the cards, flowers, gifts available for $35 per year. Call George (616)916-8271 and to all who came to help Call (269) 945-9554. me celebrate my day, GET EASY CASH with extra I truly thank you, it was a household goods and tools! wonderful day for me and Call (269) 945-9554 to sell my family. your unwanted stuff with a Eileen Pierson classified ad in this paper. Nashville, Marshall, Springport, Jackson Antiques RN/LPN Private Duty Immediate Openings Various Shifts Available Trach and Vent Experience Preferred Please email resume to: recruiter@optimalstaffing.com or fax to: 517-394-7716 ALLEGAN ANTIQUE MARKET: Sunday, May 27th. 400 exhibitors, rain or shine. 8:00am-4:00pm. Located at the fairgrounds right in Allegan, MI. $4.00 admission. NO PETS. PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 AVERITT IS LOOKING FOR CLASS A CDL DRIVERS Hiring Event & Cookout Stop by for a sandwich and speak with a recruiter. HR Reps on site for immediate consideration. WHERE:Staybridge Inn 2001 Seneca Lane Kalamazoo, MI WHEN: Thurs., May 17th Friday, May 18th, Sunday, May 20th, Mon. May 21st 12 pm - 6 pm ea. day Can’t make it? Call Dave at 317-828-2351 or Visit us online at AVERITTcareers.com 77567880 Odor of operation Banner CLASSIFIEDS 06781002 POLICE BEAT BEA Graduation ceremonies begin next week at area schools Equal Opportunity Employer �Page 14 — Thursday, May 17, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Local post offices may see reduced hours The U.S. Postal Service announced a new strategy May 9 that could keep the nation’s smallest Post Offices open for business, while providing a framework to achieve significant cost savings as part of the plan to return the organization to financial stability. The plan would keep the existing Post Offices in place, but with modified retail window hours to match customer use. Access to the retail lobby and to PO Boxes would remain unchanged, and the town’s ZIP Code and community identity would be retained. Several area Post Offices are on the list. “Meeting the needs of postal customers is, and will always be, a top priority,” said Postmaster General and CEO Patrick R. Donahoe in a press release Wednesday, May 9. “We continue to balance that by better aligning service options with customer demand and reducing the cost to serve. “With that said, we’ve listened to our customers in rural America and we’ve heard them loud and clear – they want to keep their Post Office open. We believe today’s announcement will serve our customers’ needs and allow us to achieve real savings to help the Postal Service return to long-term financial stability.” City council nixes motion to table discussion of accessibility ramps by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Hastings City Council members may have opted to go forward with discussion on setting fees for handicap accessible ramps, but that doesn’t mean they’re moving forward on the proposal as it currently stands. After defeating a motion to table all discussion on the issue, the council instead directed City Manager Jeff Mansfield at its regular meeting Monday evening to prepare a draft ordinance pertaining only to new access ramps that encroach on setbacks and would rescind remaining ordinances for existing ramps. The defeated motion came on a tie vote, with trustees Waylon Black, David Jasperse, Bill Redman and David Tossava voting against tabling the discussion, and Mayor Bob May, Mayor Pro-tem Brenda McNabbStange, and trustees Barry Wood and Don Bowers voting in its favor. Trustee Jeri DePue was absent. Mansfield said that while Joel Cooper, director of Disability Network of Southwest Michigan had stepped forward after last month’s council meeting offering to work with the city to draft ordinances regulating accessibility ramps and setting fees, it appears that members of the council felt it was time to move forward and the matter to rest. In other business, the council: • Approved a resolution amending fees for various services. In his communication to the council, Mansfield said that a number of the general fees were increased to keep pace with rising costs. Fees related to sewer and water service were increased 3.5 percent to cover operating costs. Other services to see increases include department of public services permits, including pavement cuts, driveways, moving of buildings, bacteriological water testing and more; planning and zoning fees for permits, reviews, plat review fees, planned unit development fees and zoning board of appeals request fees. • Unanimously approved a request from the Barry County Chamber of Commerce to hold a Gus Macker three-on-three basketball tournament in Hastings Friday, June 30, and Saturday, July 1. Games will be played in the area immediately east of Broadway (M-37) and between Center and State streets. Primary parking will be in the former Felpausch Food Store parking lot. • Heard a report from Dennis Benoit of Hubbell Roth Clark regarding the recently completed wastewater treatment plant improvement plan, which was developed using funds from the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality S2 grant program. The plan addresses improvements to the plant over the next 20 years. After the presentation, the council set a public hearing for 7 p.m. Monday, June 25, to solicit public comment on the plan. • Approved a motion to amend the Hastings City/Barry County Airport 2012 budget as recommended by the airport commission. The amendment will increase the airport manager’s compensation by $4,500 to allow him to purchase health insurance. McNabb-Stange and Bowers voted against the motion. • Amended the 2011-12 fiscal year budget for the Leach/Middle Lake Sewer Maintenance Fund. Mansfield said the budget was prepared before the system was fully operational and some of the assumptions on which it was based were in error. The amendment increases projected expenditures and results in a reduction in the fund balance at the end of the fiscal year. Mansfield said the amendment will not impact fees and charges for utility service to Carlton Township and the amendment has been discussed with Carlton Township supervisor Brad Carpenter. • Approved a motion to change in the city’s contribution rate for the Municipal Employees Retirement System hybrid plans in accordance with contracts with city employees and authorize May and city clerk Tom Emery to sign the agreement. • Accepted the bid from C&C Contractors for the 2012 sealcoating program in the amount of $300 per ton for patching and $1.70 per square yard for sealcoat for an estimated total of $108,960, as recommended by director of public services Tim Girrbach. • Awarded a bid to Hastings Concrete Construction Inc. for 2012 sidewalk and curb and gutter replacement in the amount of $4.50 per square foot for four-inch concrete, $5.10 per square foot six-inch concrete, and $14.50 per linear foot for curb and gutter, for an estimated total of $9,500, as recommended by Girrbach. • Increased the election inspector wage rate from $7.40 to $9 per hour, effective July 1, as recommended by Emery to bring the rate in line with that of other election workers in the county. • Set a public hearing for 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 29, to receive comment and make a determination on the city budget and the property tax rate to support the budget for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2013. • Set a public hearing for 7 p.m. Tuesday. May 29, to receive comment and make a determination on the necessity of improvements on the downtown special assessment district for 2012. STATE OF MICHIGAN OFFICE OF THE BARRY COUNTY DRAIN COMMISSIONER In the Matter of: Middleville Towne Center Drain NOTICE OF MEETING OF BOARD OF DETERMINATION Notice Is Hereby Given that a Board of Determination will meet on Monday, June 4, 2012 at 7:00 p.m., Village of Middleville, at the Village of Middleville Hall, 100 E. Main St., Middleville, Michigan, to hear all interested persons and evidence and to determine whether the drain, to be known as the Middleville Towne Center Drain is necessary and conducive to the public health, convenience and welfare of the Village of Middleville, in accordance with Sections 72 and 191 of Act No. 40, P.A. 1956, as amended, and for the protection of the public health of the Village of Middleville. Proceedings conducted at this public hearing will be subject to the provision of the Michigan Open Meetings Act. You are further notified that information regarding this meeting may be obtained from the Barry County Drain Commissioner. Persons with disabilities needing accommodations for effective participation in the meeting should contact the Barry County Drain Commissioner’s office at the number noted below (voice) or through the Michigan Relay Center at 1-800-649-3777 (TDD) at least 72 hours in advance of the meeting to request mobility, visual, hearing or other assistance. Minutes of the meeting will be on file at the Barry County Drain Commissioner’s Office. You Are Further Notified that persons aggrieved by the decisions of the Board of Determination may seek judicial review in the Circuit Court for the County of Barry within ten (10) days of the determination. DATED: May 16, 2012 Russell Yarger Barry County Drain Commissioner 220 W. State St. Hastings, MI 49058 77567943 (269) 945-1385 Local Post Offices that would see hours reduced from eight to six each week are Clarksville, Mulliken, Sunfield, Dowling, Alto and Freeport. Those that would see the weekly hours cut from eight to four are Woodland, Bedford, Cloverdale, Hickory Corners, Vermontville and Bradley. The new strategy would be implemented over a two-year, multi-phased approach and would not be completed until September 2014, according to the press release. Once implementation is completed, the Postal Service estimates savings of a half billion dollars annually. “The Postal Service is committed to serving America’s communities and providing a responsible and fair approach for our employees and customers,” said Megan Brennan, Postal Service Chief Operating Officer. “The Post Offices in rural America will remain open unless a community has a strong preference for one of the other options. We will not close any of these rural Post Offices without having provided a viable solution.” The Postal Service will provide an oppor- tunity for the Postal Regulatory Commission to review this plan prior to making any changes. The Postal Service intends to file a request for an advisory opinion on the plan with the PRC later this month. Community meetings would then be conducted to review options in greater detail. Communities will be notified by mail of the date, time and location of these meetings. This new option complements existing alternatives, which include: providing mail delivery service to residents and businesses in the affected community by either rural carrier or highway contract route; contracting with a local business to create a Village Post Office; and offering service from a nearby Post Office. A voluntary early retirement incentive for the nation’s more than 21,000 non-executive postmasters was also announced. Survey research conducted by the respected Opinion Research Corporationin February, showed 54 percent of rural customers would prefer the new solution to maintain a local Post Office. Forty-six percent prefer one of the previously announced solutions (20 percent prefer Village Post Office, 15 percent prefer providing services at a nearby Post Office, 11 percent prefer expanded rural delivery). This strategy would enable a town to possibly have a Post Office with modified hours, as well as a Village Post Office. The Postal Service had implemented a voluntary moratorium on all postal facility closings through May 15. No closings or changes to Post Office operations will occur until after that time. In addition to maintaining a retail network of more than 31,000 Post Offices, the Postal Service also provides online access to postal products and services through usps.com and more than 70,000 alternate access locations. Nearly 40 percent of postal retail revenue comes from purchases on www.usps.com and through approved postal providers at retail stores. The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations. New GED program provides opportunities by David DeDecker Staff Writer Levi Pinks is 24 years old and was recently ordered by the court to complete his general educational development certificate. He is the first person to obtain a GED through the new Barry County corrections-based program. “I think it is a really good program,” said Pinks. “I was nervous at first, but I picked up on it and had a really good teacher.” The GED consists of five tests, and Pinks had already passed three of them before the most recent court order, and entered the new program. He had yet to complete his math and writing tests. “I think the thing that made it really quick and easy for us is that we worked really well together,” said Debi Kruse, GED educator with the Barry County program. Kruse said assessment tools help instructors focus on where a student is weakest. Pinks agreed and said the pre-tests helped him to know what might be on the tests and gave him an idea of what to expect. “I will say that without the prep classes here, I probably wouldn’t have passed my tests,” added Pinks. “There was a lot of stuff on the tests that I didn’t know anything about before taking the classes.” As a teacher, Kruse believes people do learn better in groups and as a community. “I have a lot of test anxiety. Being able to take a practice test really helps out” added Pinks. “A lot of times we work together in groups to study and get to know the math. Fractions and things like that were never really my strong suit. We had about five people in Levi Pinks is the first to pass all five tests and obtain his GED through a new courtordered program. GED educator Debi Kruse said Pinks was dedicated to obtaining his GED. my class and that really helped because we could really work on the problems in class. The smaller class size worked for me. When the class was larger, I was more shy.” In June, Pinks will enter orientation at Michigan Career and Technical Institute near Delton and will start taking welding classes. PRIMARY, continued from page 1 fellow Republican Daniel Bivens. Republican incumbent Elizabeth Miller is again seeking the treasurer’s post. Trustee seats are sought by incumbent Republicans James Miller and Eugene Waterbury. In Baltimore Township, Supervisor Ron Miller is not seeking re-election. That seat is sought by Republican Bill Miller; Democrat Penelope Ypma is unchallenged as incumbent clerk; Mary Baker has filed for treasurer; and Republican Arthur DeFields is seeking one of two trustee positions. In Barry Township, incumbent Wesley Kahler is being challenged by fellow Republican Jim Patterson for supervisor. Debra Knight is the unopposed Republican incumbent for clerk. Republican Judith Wooer is the unopposed incumbent for treasurer. Four Republicans seek two trustee seats: James Alden, Ricky Lawrence, Ingrid Pagano and Tom Eimer. Carlton Township Incumbent Supervisor Brad Carpenter is running unopposed as a Republican. Elsie McKelvey is challenging incumbent clerk Michele Erb, and Treasurer Marlene Forman is being challenged by Victoria Steadman; all are Republicans. Two trustee seats are sought by incumbent Republicans Gary VandeCar and Cary Smith. Castleton Township Supervisor Cheryl Hartwell is unofficially a candidate for reelection. The clerk seat is sought by incumbent Republican Lorna Wilson and the Treasurer by incumbent Republican Dorothy Semrau. Two Republicans seeking to be trustees are incumbent Michael Trahan and newcomer Earl Wilson. Republican incumbent Jim Brown is running unopposed for the Hastings Charter Township Supervisor’s position, as is Republican Clerk Anita Mennell and Democrat Treasurer Jenee Phillips. All four trustees are incumbents running unopposed: Republicans Ron Mennell, William Wetzel and James Partridge II and Democrat Keith Murphy. In Hope Township, Supervisor Patricia Jo Albert is being challenged by fellow Republican Mark Feldpausch. Republican Deborah Jackson is seeking the clerk position. Arlene Tonkin is an incumbent Republican running unopposed for treasurer. Two Republicans are seeking two trustee seats — incumbents Meryl Peake and David Messelink. Current Irving Township Supervisor George London has put in a bid for township trustee. Seeking the supervisor’s post are Charlie Boulter and Jamie Knight. Incumbents, Clerk Carol Ergang and Treasurer Lynnette Wingeier are unopposed. Republicans London and Larry Brummel Jr. are both seeking the two open trustee seats. In Johnstown Township, incumbent Barbara Earl is running unopposed for supervisor. Incumbent Clerk June Doster is being challenged by fellow Republicans Abbie Bishop and Trisha Poley. The treasurer’s job is sought by lone Republican and incumbent Karmen Nickerson. Republican incumbent Karen Doster is the only candidate for two trustee seats. Incumbent Rod Crothers is running unopposed for the Maple Grove supervisor’s job. Republican Susie Butler is running as an incumbent for clerk while incumbent Republican Ginger Cole runs unopposed for the treasurer spot. Incumbents James Heyboer and Doug Westendorp are running as Republicans to reclaim the two trustee seats. In Orangeville Township, Republican incumbent Supervisor Thomas Rook is being challenged by Democrat George Williston. Democrat incumbent Jennifer Goy is seeking to retain the clerk’s seat, while Democrat incumbent Vickie Ritchie is running again for treasurer. Incumbents Republican Robert Perino and Democrat Linda Ribble are again seeking the two trustee positions. Prairieville Township will see Republican incumbent Jim Stoneburner run unopposed for supervisor. Republicans Ted DeVries and NormaJean Nichols will face off for clerk. Kasandra McGuire will run unopposed as incumbent treasurer. Jim Grundy and Rod Goebel are running as incumbents for trustee on the Republican ticket. Prairieville will also vote for five parks commissioner seats, with only Democrat G. R. Labrecque and Republican Rebecca Kahler seeking election. In Rutland Charter Township, incumbent Republican Robin Hawthorne again seeks the clerk’s chair, with incumbent Sandra Greenfield vying for the treasurer’s seat. Five Republicans have filed for four trustee position: Marlin Walters and incumbents Bill Hanshaw, Robert Lee, Brenda Bellmore and Dorothy Flint. Thornapple Township Supervisor Don Boysen will not run for re-election, and three Republican candidates have stepped forward to fill the post — John Sager, Mike Bremer and Ross DeMaagd. Three Republicans are seeking the clerk’s seat in Thornapple Township; Cindy Willshire and Geoffrey Moffat are challenging incumbent Susan Vlietstra. Incumbent Treasurer Debra Buckowing is seeking the only unopposed seat on the township board. Six Republicans are running for four trustee positions: Incumbents William Kenyon, Patrick Harrison and Walter Eavey, as well as Nick Wake, Wayne A. Winchester and Aaron Wissner. Patrick Hilton is also seeking to become a trustee, but had no party declaration, according to unofficial information from the county clerk’s office. In Woodland Township, Republicans Jeffrey MacKenzie and Kenny Bump seek to fill the supervisor’s role. Current Supervisor David Bursley is not seeking re-election, nor is Clerk Cheryl Allen. Republican Nancy Stanton is running unopposed for clerk as is Republican incumbent Nancy Potter for treasurer. Republicans Stephen DeMaagd and Page Neustifter seek re-election to their trustee positions with the township. In Yankee Springs Township, Al McCrumb is not seeking re-election. Filing to fill that post are Republicans Tom Wallace, Warren Wheeler, Alice Jansma and Mark Englerth. Incumbent Clerk Janice Lippert is being challenged by Kebra Brush. Treasurer John Jerkatis Jr. is being challenged by Donald Berry. Five candidates have filed for two trustee seats: Republicans incumbents Mary Cook and Al Schwennesen, Republican challengers Bruce Campbell and Paul Heystek, and Democrat challenger Shanon VandenBerg. Yankee Springs will also vote for a constable with Republican James Orr running unopposed. On a state level, incumbent Republican Mike Callton will be challenged in November by Democrat Sherry Anderson for 87th District state representative post. Incumbent Republican Justin Amash is running again as U.S. Representative for Michigan’s 3rd District, being challenged by Democrats Steve Pestka and Trevor Thomas. For U.S. Senator, incumbent Democrat Debbie Stabenow is being challenged by Republicans candidates are Pete Hoekstra, Clark Durant and Randy Hekman. For more information about candidates contact the Barry County Clerk’s office or a township office. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 17, 2012 — Page 15 Viking track teams close league duals with wins It was a big night for the Vikings on the final night of Capital Area Activities Conference White Division duals Tuesday. Both the boys’ and girls’ teams improved to 2-3 in the conference with wins over visiting Portland. The league season ends with the conference meet Wednesday at Williamston. The boys’ team pulled out a 69-68 win over the visiting Raiders. After watching the Raiders sweep all nine points in the 3200meter run to pull ahead, the Vikings took the 1600-meter relay by about ten seconds to score the one-point victory. While the Raiders pushed the Viking boys, the Lakewood girls had to push themselves in a 123-13 win. They did. The Viking 800meter relay team of Ellie Reynolds, Madison McLean, Alexis Kosten and Mycah Ridder set a new school record in winning with a time of 1 minute 47.7 seconds. That was one of 16 wins in the 17 events for the Lakewood girls. Ellie Reynolds, Betsy Reynolds, Hannah DeJong and Ashley Jemison won two events each for the Lakewood ladies. Ellie won the 100-meter hurdles in 17.00 seconds and the 300-meter low hurdles in 50.80. Betsy won the 800-meter run in 2:34.2 and the 1600 in 7:25.6. DeJong and Jemison took their wins in the field. DeJong won the pole vault by clearing 7 feet 6 inches and the high jump by clearing 4-10. Jemison won the discus at 115-.5 and the shot put with a mark of 33-10. Jemison was second in the high jump at 4-8, and DeJong added a runner-up finish in the shot put at 27-.5. Cori Curtis won the 100-meter dash for the Vikings in 13.35, and Ridder took the 200 in 26.76. McLean won the 400 in 1:02.85. Lora Lee Burrus won the 3200 in 15:43.4. The Vikings swept the relays, winning the 3200-meter event in 12:35.6, the 400 in 51.61 and the 1600 in 4:32.5. Three relay victories helped the Viking boys to their win. They took the 400-meter relay in 46.57, the 800-meter relay in 1:35.57 and the 1600-meter relay in 3:43.4. Micah Weatherwax had two big wins for Lakewood, taking the 100-meter dash in 11.82 and the 200 in 24.12. Cody Collins had two wins for Lakewood too. He took the pole vault at 11-0 and the 400-meter dash in 55.83. Lakewood’s other two wins came in the field, with Kyle Kneale throwing 121-1.5 in the discus and Michael Carr clearing 5-10 in the high jump. The Lakewood girls haven’t been beaten in their last four competitions, a string which includes league duals with Perry and Portland and invitational wins at Pennfield and Central Montcalm. The Lakewood girls won the Green Division championship at Saturday’s Central Montcalm Hornet Invitational. The finished with 186 points, ahead of Ionia 118, Clare 94, Lakeview 90, Morley-Stanwood 67 and Central Montcalm 54. The Viking team was powered by wins in all four relay races. The team of Kosten, Jacqueline O’Gorman, Lindsey Tooker and Betsy Reynolds won the 3200-meter relay in 10:39.88. Tessa Hergenrader, Ellie Reynolds, McLean and Kosten won the 800-meter relay in 1:50.77. Ellie Reynolds, McLean, Kosten and Ridder won the 400-meter relay in 51.62. It was Kosten, McLean, Betsy Reynolds and Ridder winning the 1600-meter relay in 4:19.80. Ridder also won the sprints and Jemison the throws. Ridder took the 100 in 13.10 and the 200 in 26.99. Jemison threw 34-3.5 in the shot put and 114-2 in the discus. The Lakewood team also had McLean win the 400 in 1:02.34 and Ellie Reynolds take the 300-meter low hurdles in 50.71. Ionia won the boys’ Green Division title, with 152 points. Morley-Stanwood was second with 148, followed by Clare 139, Lakeview 96, Lakewood 68 and Central Montcalm 34. Lakewood’s top performances came from Weatherwax in the sprints. He was second in the 100 in 11.78 and in the 200 in 23.93. In the White Division, for smaller schools, Maple Valley’s boys were second and the girls third. Evart won the boys’ title with 185 points, ahead of the Lions’ 174 and Saranac 146, Carson City-Crystal 71, Vestaburg 37 and West Michigan Lutheran 14. Garrett Reid, Ryan Nisse and Keegan Yost led the Lion boys. Reid won all four of his events, taking the 100-meter dash in 11.57, the 200 in 23.38, the 400 in 52.50 and the long jump with a mark of 18-11.25. Nisse won the hurdles, he took the 300meter low hurdles in 43.63, with teammate Joe Eddy second in 43.87, and won the 110meter high hurdles in 16.81. Yost won the shot put with a mark of 47-8.75 and was second in the discus at 123-0. Evart also won the White Division girls’ title, with 169.5 points. Saranac was second with 167.5, followed by Maple Valley 121.5, Carson City-Crystal 111, Vestaburg 19.5 and West Michigan Lutheran 3. The discus was one of the Lion ladies’ best events. Zoanne Siple won it with a mark of 92-5, and teammate Siera Rose was second at 83-10. Hastings girls push FHE, but Hawks score three in OT to win Hastings’ varsity girls’ soccer team is scheduled to open the O-K Gold Conference Tournament with a contest at the home of second seeded South Christian Thursday evening. The Saxons finished seventh in the regular season standings, but showed the gains they’ve made this season by pushing Forest Hills Eastern in the final game of the conference’s regular season Wednesday in Hastings. The Hawks scored a 4-1 victory, but it took overtime for them to get it done. The two teams were tied 1-1 at the end of regulation. “We had several other opportunities against them, it's just that extra little bit of push that we didn’t get,” said Saxon head coach Sarah Smith. “Forest Hills Eastern stayed tough though and continued to challenge us and they came out on top.” Forest Hills Eastern scored the game’s first goal, the only goal of the first half. Hastings The Lions ended the day on the track with the team of Alicia Ramsey, Hadley Joppie, Marissa Pierce and Hannah Hilton winning the 1600-meter relay in 4:37.07. Jessica Rushford also had a good day for Maple Valley, winning the 800-meter run in 2:29.71, placing second in the 1600 in 5:24.72, and fourth in the 3200 in 12:31.58. Viking tennis fourth at league tourney Lakewood’s varsity girls’ tennis team closed out the Capital Area Activities Conference White Division season with a fourth-place finish at the conference tournament hosted by Corunna Thursday. Brooke Fox was the lone medalist for the Vikings at the conference tournament, placing second at second singles. Fox bested Portland’s Katie Blake in three sets when the two teams met for their CAAC-White dual Tuesday, and the pair played another great match Thursday in the second singles final. This time Blake came out on top, 6-4, 7-6(4). Fox beat Williamston’s Katie Nix in a tight match 6-4, 7-6(4) to start the day. Willamston took the day’s championship with 33 points, one-point ahead of runner-up Lansing Catholic. Portland was third followed by Lakewood and Corunna in the standings. “We were quite competitive, but not quite over the hump,” said Lakewood head coach Martin Snoap. Hannah Morris at first singles, Sunshine Young at third singles, the first doubles team of Heather Kennedy and Mariah Krikke, Lexi Fetterman and Mary Wernet at second doubles, Heather Rice and Olivia Bala at third doubles, and Whitney Beglin and Louise Gross at fourth doubles all finished fourth in their flights for Lakewood. They all beat Corunna players to open action. Morris, Young, and the team of Gross and Beglin all pushed their foes to three sets in the matches for third place, but came up just short. Portland’s top player edged Morris, while Young fell to Williamston’s third singles player, and the team of Gross and Beglin was downed by Lansing Catholic. Fox and Young had the Vikings’ two wins in their loss to Portland in the dual Tuesday. The Vikings will head to the Division 3 Regional Tournament hosted by Haslett Thursday (May 17). Doubles matches will be held at Haslett, while the singles players head to Williamston. tied the game up with seven minutes left in regulation, as Tori Schoessel hit in a direct kick from 30 yards out. The Hawks scored with two minutes left in the first overtime session, then tacked on two more goals in the second extra period. “Our issue is we lack the ability to mentally focus an entire game,” said Smith. “We have been struggling with that.” She said it was a couple mental errors that cost the Saxons on the Hawks’ goals. “Haley Wagner and Morganne Hubbell definitely shut down their middle, playing outstanding and making them find a different way to our goal,” Smith said. “It took them a good part of the game, but they eventually succeeded in the overtime periods to break down our defense.” Hastings ends the league regular season with a 1-6 record. The Valhalla wrestling team placed fourth in its pool at the Midwest Grand Challenge at Kellogg Arena in Battle Creek the weekend of May 5. The team is comprised of wrestlers from Lakewood, Caledonia, Grand Ledge, Central Montcalm, Delton, Charlotte, Hastings and Ionia. Team members last weekend included (front from left) Ethan Young, Raiden Mcleod, (second row) Garrett Hubbell, John Jackson, Chris Wilcox, John Leark, (third row) Kenny Cross, Trent Braman, Jacob Reed, Chris Wilcox, Andrew Morgan, (back) Jake Gravilla, Dakota James, Chase Chandler, Joel Wenk, Wyatt Risto. “The goal is to get the better kids from the schools to be able to work out with better kids in practice,” said club coordinator Bob Veitch. “I think by doing this it will help out the schools with their programs.” The club is coached by Brad Bennett, and will be going to tournaments at across the Midwest throughout the summer. The team is sponsored by Carbon Green BioEnergy. 77567726 77567728 77567730 Valhalla wrestling club takes part in its first tournament 77567722 77567724 See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits Second-place finish leaves Viking golfers tied for first It took all six golfers to earn the Vikings’ a second-place finish at Thursday’s Capital Area Activities Conference White Division jamboree at the Country Club of Lansing. Lansing Catholic took the day’s title with a score of 159. Lakewood and Williamston tied at 161, and need to count the fifth and sixth golfers to break the tie. The runner-up finish keeps the Vikings in a tie with Lansing Catholic for first in the overall league standings. It was the first time the Vikings had played at The Country Club of Lansing, which is Lansing Catholic’s new home course. “I thought we played very well on a new track,” said Lakewood head coach Carl Kutch. “The greens were very speedy, leaving some tricky putts if you were on the wrong side of the pin.” Adam Barker led Lakewood on the day with a 38. Jade Bosworth also broke 40, with a 39. “Adam and Jade both struck the ball very well, hitting five and six greens respectively,” said Kutch. The Vikings also got a pair of 42s from Royce Everts and Blake Yaeger. “Everts also hit four greens in regulation and managed the course well,” Kutch said. “Our sophomore, Blake Yaeger, only had 14 putts for nine holes on these tough greens.” Portland was fourth in the team standings with a 170, besting Corunna on a fifth-score tie-breaker as the Cavaliers’ top four also shot a 170. Perry was sixth with a 184. Co-medalists on the day were Jacob Johnson and Brent Marshall, each with a 37. The Vikings had a busy weekend, also heading to The Emerald in St. Johns for the Redwing Invitational Friday, and taking part in the Ionia County Shoot-Out at the Portland Country Club Saturday. The Vikings took the championship in Portland Saturday, scoring a 316. Portland was second with a 320, followed by Belding 330, Pewamo-Westphalia 350 and Ionia 354. Barker was the day’s medalist, with a three-over-par 73. Clark added an 80, Bosworth an 81 and Ben Ridder an 82. “"It was a great round for Adam today,” Kutch said. “He battled all day, making some big putts.” Barker finished with just 27 putts over the 18 holes, made 10 up and downs, and struck the ball well, hitting nine greens in regulation. He also made three birdies. Clark got off the tee extremely well today hitting, 10 out of 14 fairways. “This team battled hard today, and it’s been a long week with four events in five days,” said Kutch. Friday, the Vikings were tenth out of 20 teams at the Redwing Invitational. Barker led the Vikings with an 80. Bosworth added an 86, Clark an 88 and Ridder and Everts both scored 89s. The Viking team finished with a score of 343. Howell took the day’s championship with a score of 306. DeWitt was second at 314, followed by the Vikings’ league rivals from Lansing Catholic who shot a 326. �Page 16 — Thursday, May 17, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Hastings Rotary Club hosts senior boys by David DeDecker Staff Writer The Hastings Rotary Club welcomed boys from the Hastings Class of 2012 to its weekly meeting Tuesday, May 14. The students ate a hearty lunch, introduced themselves, and told Rotary members what plans they each had for the immediate future. Guest speaker for the luncheon was Matt Neil, a Hastings graduate and basketball standout, who just completed his second season as head coach of Hope College men’s basketball team. Neil has a 50-9 record as Hope’s head coach and was named NCAA Division III Coach of the Year in New Orleans in March. He also taught mathematics for the Holland School System for 28 years. Neil has been married for 27 years and is the father of four children. He told the crowd his wife, Kim, has supported him and their children; this year, he said, she attended more than 80 sporting events involving her family. “My wife always reminds us that we play the game because it’s fun and not to let anything, or anyone, take away the joy of playing the game,” said Neil. “I think that is important for all of us to remember — especially for me as a coach.” Neil asked the seniors to remember four words, each begin with the letter “e.” He asked listeners to “expose” themselves to the right things. Neil said in the electronic information age offers plenty to be exposed to, and individuals need to make the right choices about what information is consumed. “We can make a difference for good, or not,” said Neil. “Each one of you understands that, but make sure you expose yourself to the right things.” Neil encouraged students to model what they truly believe, or “exemplify.” “I hope each one of you is going to be someone who can exemplify honesty and integrity,” said Neil. “Those are things I look for when I am recruiting a young man.” He told the listeners a story of a group of young executives who were tested by the company’s CEO. One particular executive persisted in a seemingly fruitless task, stayed honest and operated with integrity, even though he believed he was failing the appointed task. At year’s end, the CEO rewarded the young man for staying true, even though it appeared all the other executives were more successful. The CEO’s test was about honesty and integrity — core values in the face of difficulty — not the illusion of success. The third word Neil asked the young men to consider was “evaluate.” “Look at yourself with humility and see if you are someone who can make a difference in the world,” said Neil. “I believe everybody here has the ability to change the world one life at a time. Evaluate if you are one of two types of person. Are you transformational — someone interested in changing lives — or are you transactional? I think coaches are one or the other. I would like to think my players think I am transformational. I am interested in winning, but I am more interested in what they will do later in their lives. “After the celebration in New Orleans and I received this wonderful award — a tribute to my team — a man asked me if my season was a success, even though we lost the national championship. That’s a tough question. We were 27-2. We lost to one Division III team all year, and lost to Western — a Division I school. I told him, ‘Come and see me in 10 Hope College Basketball Coach Matt Neil speaks to Hastings High School senior boys at the Hastings Rotary Club meeting. Hastings High School senior boys pictured after attending the Hastings Rotary Club luncheon Monday are (seated, from left) Anthony Veltre, Mitchell Kolanowski, Dan Buehler, Taylor Klotz, (standing, front) Zack Zwiernikowski, Greg Goodrich, Dalton White, Carl Franson, Chad Singleterry, Michael Doran, (second row) Coach Matt Neil, Jeremy Nichols, Bret Lawrence, Francisco Lopez, Chase Williams, Shane Tossava, Tel Newth, Brandon Johnson, Alex Nichols, Michael Pewoski, Jacob Comer, Adam Donavan, Michael Kaczmarczyk, Dallas Pesch, Evyn Willett, Nick Ashcraft, Joshua Moore, (third) Dylan Thurman, Casey Goggins, Jacob Steidle, Craig Gagnon, (back) Tim Thompson, Devin Barcroft, Jon Wright, Jakob Bower, Bobby Leedy, Andrew Clous, Jacob Gray, Macky Lewis, Cory Shaver, Maxx Birman and Justin Back. years. Come and see me then, so I can tell you how all my players have gone out into the world and succeeded, then I will tell you if my season was a success.’ “I am trying to evaluate myself as a transformational coach. Transactional would have looked only at the wins and losses. “Each one of us is a coach for others,” he told the boys. “Are you transformational or transactional in your relationships? Are you changing lives?” Neil encouraged community business leaders to lead from their hearts more than from the bottom line. “I know, the bottom line is pretty important, but think of the lives that could be changed,” he said. The last word Neil asked his listeners to consider was “encourage.” “Someone has encouraged each of you to achieve,” Neil told the seniors. “Think of the people who have been there for you. It might be one person, it might be several — a teacher, coach, pastor, or your parents. Can you be an encourager for those around you? Do you HHS baseball handily sweeps Ottawa Hills Hastings didn’t give up a run in sweeping its three-game O-K Gold Conference set with Ottawa Hills last week. The Saxons took the final game of the series 15-0 in Hastings Thursday. Nicholas Replogle pitched a three-inning no-hitter in the win for the Saxons, improving his record to 4-3 on the year. He faced ten batters and struck out six. Hastings scored four times in the first inning, nine times in the second, and then twice in the bottom of the third to end the game. Michael Eastman added two more hits to his season total along with an RBI. Mitchell Kolanowski (RBI), Brandon Redman, Keith Garber and Replogle (RBI) would all have one hit each for Hastings. The Saxons started the set with the Bengals in Grand Rapids Tuesday, winning the opener 27-0 in three innings. Hastings then took game two 18-0 in another three-inning game. Hastings scored 16 runs in the first inning of game one, adding six in the second and five more in the third. Kolanowski (3 RBIs), Ethan Mahmat (4 RBIs), Jake Swartz (RBI), and Replogle (4 RBIs) would each had two hits in the game. Garber (2 RBIs), Eastman (2 RBIs), Jon French (double/2 RBIs) and Devin Greenfield (2 RBIs) had one hit each. Replogle earned the win, striking out five and giving up three hits. Swartz took the game two win, striking out eight of the ten batters he faced. He allowed just one hit. The Saxons again scored double-digit runs in the first inning, with 12, and then added six in the second to earn the sweep. Eastman (3 RBIs) and Swartz (3 RBIs) had a pair of hits to pace the Hastings offense in game two. Tyler Stolicker (2 RBIs) and 07599435 HYAA 2012 SIGN-UPS FLAG FOOTBALL K5 - 2nd grade • Cost is $45 in May TACKLE FOOTBALL / CHEERLEADING 3rd - 8th grade (or 8 years old before August 31, 2012) Cost is $75 in May Sign up at the first sign-up of the year to get your Early Bird Discount! SUNDAY, MAY 20TH 2:00-4:00PM State Grounds Coffee House, Downtown Hastings Contact us at www.hyaafootball.com or on Facebook at H.Y.A.A. Football ?s Call Val @ 269-420-1406 Cheerleading ?s Call Connie @ 269-953-0505 Parker (RBI) also had one hit in the game. Things were more competitive as the Saxons traveled to Allegan for a non-conference contest Wednesday. Hastings scored four times in the first inning, but Allegan shut the Saxons down the rest of the way to score a 5-4 win. Allegan scored three times in its half of the third to tighten things up at 4-3, and then tied the game in the fourth with a single run before setting the stage for the dramatic win in the bottom of the seventh. Eastman got the Hastings offense going early, with a two-run home run over the leftfield fence. The Saxons then tacked on two more runs thanks to a RBI double from David Pierce and a RBI single from Greenfield. Eastman finished with three hits, a double and a single to go along with his home run. Replogle also had a single for the Saxons. French started and worked into the third inning before giving way to Travis Sixberry. Pierce (0-1) was on the mound in the sixth and seventh innings and took the loss. Saxon alumni baseball game set for May 28 The 36th Annual Hastings Alumni Baseball Game will be held Monday, May 28, at 1 p.m. at Johnson Field in Hastings. All former Saxon varsity baseball players are invited to play. Practice will begin at about 11:15 with batting practice, if the weather allows. Parents who still live in the area are asked to please fill in their sons who now live out of town. If bad weather forces the cancellation of the game, it will be announced on WBCH radio. believe so much in others that they can’t help but believe in themselves? If you have the ability to lift someone up higher than they ever thought they could lift themselves — think about that — imagine the results.” Neil ended his talk by telling the audience everyone makes a difference — without exception. “Believe that everyone can make a difference,” he said. “Success is built in relationships. Help create value for other people. Ask yourself how you can bring joy to someone’s life, and don’t be afraid to be honest. Believe in what you are about to attempt.” Wayland stays perfect in Gold by beating Saxon girls twice Wayland’s varsity softball team improved to 12-0 in the O-K Gold Conference with a pair of 10-0 wins over host Hastings Tuesday afternoon. The Wildcats took the opener in six innings, but the Saxons were right in it until a five-run fifth inning that was helped by a couple hits and a couple of Saxon errors put the Wildcats up 7-0. It was 0-0 after three innings. Saxon starting pitcher Laken Meade retired nine of the first 11 batters she faced, with a walk and an error leading to the only Wildcat base runners. Wayland got its first two runs in the fourth, without a hit, as the Saxons committed four errors in the inning. Wayland added the five run fifth, then tacked on its final three runs in the top of the sixth. Meade gave up just four hits while striking out four. None of the runs against her were earned. The Saxons threatened a couple of times, putting two on in the bottom of the third and the bottom of the sixth. Marissa Adams and Stevie Pennepacker walked for the Saxons in the third. In the sixth, Adams singled and Meade followed with a walk. Emily Hayes, a sophomore, got her first varsity start for the Saxons in game two. Wayland slowly pushed across runs against her and the Saxons. The Wildcats scored once in the first, twice in the second, twice in the fourth and five times in the bottom of the fifth inning to end the game early. The Saxons’ best chance to score came in the top of the first, thanks to a Katie DeVries double and a single by Farrah Salazar, but that rally ended in a pop out. Hastings is scheduled to host Pennfield for two Thursday, then will be at the Charlotte Invitational Saturday for three games. DK golfers edge Hastings for third at Pennfield Invite Delton Kellogg senior Mitchell Wandell was the medalist Saturday at the 6th Annual Pennfield High School Golf Invitational at Marywood Golf Club. Wandell shot a 74 to lead the Panther varsity boys’ golf team to a third-place finish in the 12-team field. Each team had two individual scores for the day, and then two-person best ball and scramble teams. “Mitch finally got it going again” said Delton Kellogg head coach Kent Enyart. “He has been struggling with an illness that has slowed him down as of late, but played outstanding on that day.” Kalamazoo Central took the day’s championship with a score of 314. Harper Creek was second with a 324, followed by Delton Kellogg 329, Hastings 332, Pennfield 333, Kalamazoo Christian 337, Charlotte 348, Maple Valley 356, Vicksburg 356, Olivet 365, New Buffalo 400 and St. Philip 417. Zack Simon added a 90 for Delton, while the Panthers also got an 83 from the best ball team of Conner Worm and DJ Prater and an 82 from the scramble team of Adam Farrah and Mike Warner. The best of the four scores for the Saxons came from the best ball team of Fredrik Isgard and Dylan Thurman which scored an 81. Taylor Klotz shot an 83, Danny Buehler an 84, and the Saxons also got an 84 from the scramble team of Logan Barrett and Chris Feldpausch. Maple Valley was led by Caleb Walker’s 83. Dale White shot a 97, while the best ball team of Rage Sheldon and Ryan Mudge scored an 87 and the scramble team of Jordan Denton and Nick Isler shot an 89. Kalamazoo Central had the top best ball team, as Matt McGinnis and Jake Waggoner scored a 77. The best scramble score was a 69 from Vicksburg’s Luke Tindell and Ryan Muzljekovich. It was a nice improvement for the Panthers, who had a rough afternoon at the Kalamazoo Valley Association Tri hosted by Maple Valley at Mulberry Fore Friday. Kalamazoo Christian took first on the day with a score of 170, followed by the Lions 177 and the Panthers 178. The Comets’ Bailey Matheison had the day’s low round, a 40. Simon led Delton with a 41. Wandell added a 45, and Delton also got 46s from Worm, Farrah and Prater. Walker led the Lions with a 42, while Jordan Denton added a 43, White a 45 and Sheldon a 47. Call 945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 17, 2012 — Page 17 FHE teams win O-K Gold titles on their own track by Brett Bremer Sports Editor There weren’t too many surprises at Saturday’s O-K Gold Conference Championships at Forest Hills Eastern High School. The host Hawks won the girls’ meet by more than 50 points over runner-up South Christian to clinch the conference championship. Forest Hills Eastern’s varsity boys’ track and field team won the league meet for the second year in a row, to share the conference title with Caledonia for the second year in a row. Hastings’ girls were fifth and the Hastings’ boys were eighth. Forest Hills Eastern took the boys’ title with 126 points. Caledonia was second with 101, followed by Grand Rapids Catholic Central 91, Thornapple Kellogg 85, South Christian 70, Ottawa Hills 68, Wayland 62 and Hastings 56. The final standings were a rough end to a league season filled with near misses for the Saxons. Jacob Comer the only victory for Hastings, winning the 110-meter high hurdles in 14.79 Forest Hills Eastern’s Nick Robbins (left) and Hastings’ Jacob Comer hit the final hurdle at the same time at the end of the 300-meter intermediate hurdles Saturday. Robbins would take the O-K Gold Conference championship in the event, finishing three hundredths of a second ahead of Comer. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The Saxons’ Cherie Kosbar runs to a sixth-place finish in the 400-meter dash Saturday during the O-K Gold Conference Championships in Ada. (Photo by Brett Bremer) seconds, racing in ahead of Forest Hills Eastern’s Nick Robbins (15.39 seconds) and Thornapple Kellogg’s Tanin Eckhoff (15.40). Robbins got his revenge in the 300-meter intermediate hurdles, besting Comer by three hundredths of a second 40.03 to 40.06 for the top spot. Comer was also just shy of a championship in the pole vault, placing third at 13 feet. Caledonia teammates Tom Andreano and Tyler Patterson were first and second in the event, both clearing 13 feet 6 inches. Hastings’ Ben Kolanowski was outsprinted to the finish by Thornapple Kellogg’s Dustin Brummel in the 800-meter run, with Brummel winning the second of his two conference championships in 2 minutes 3.94 seconds, and Kolanowski finishing in 2:04.21. Brummel also came flying up from behind Forest hills Eastern’s Mowgli Crosby to win the 1600-meter run in 4:27.88. Crosby was second in 4:28.05. “It’s a pretty good day. Better than what I thought,” said Brummel. “I was just worried. Nerves. There’s a lot of good people.” Crosby, who was third in the 800 Saturday, had been the only runner to beat Brummel in either the 800 or the 1600 during the league duals. “I got a mini adrenaline rush, and then just took off,” Brummel said of his come-frombehind wins in the two races. “I want to win.” After those two wins, Brummel sat out the 3200-meter run, then helped the Trojan 1600meter relay team, which also included Josh Bremer, Eckhoff and Evan Grinage to a third- place time of 3:31.53. Eckhoff took the high jump for the Trojans, clearing 6-4. Thornapple Kellogg also had Trey Mahon win the shot put with a throw of 45-10.5, and finish second in the discus at 151-8.5. Forest Hills Eastern’s Dylan Banagis won the discus with a mark of 156-5. Banagis and Robbins took the only two individual wins for the meet champion Hawks. Forest Hills Eastern also had the team of Ethan Carrigon, Brendan McCoy, Chory Pope and Mowgli Crosby win the 3200-meter relay in 8:19.38. The Forest Hills Eastern girls won all four relays, and piled up 178.5 points. South Christian was second with 125, followed by Thornapple Kellogg 90.5, Caledonia 87, Hastings 76.5, Catholic Central 68.5, Wayland 22 and Ottawa Hills 12. The top finish for the Hastings girls came in the 3200-meter run, where Trista Straube set a new school record with her runner-up time of 11:29.41. Caledonia’s Hannah Schroder won the race in 11:27.44. The Hastings girls also had a good day in the hurdles. Rachel Quillen was second in the 100-meter hurdles in 16.83, with South Christian’s Anna Newhoff in front of her in 16.01. Quillen’s teammate Nikki Redman was fourth in the event in 17.33. Redman later added a third-place finish in the 300-meter low hurdles, an event Newhoff won in 46.77. Quillen, Redman and Straube all earned all-conference honors. Quillen also added a Hastings’ Nikki Redman gets the baton from teammate Rachel Rimer during the 1600-meter relay Saturday at the O-K Gold Conference Championships. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Thornapple Kellogg’s Dustin Brummel races towards a victory in the 1600-meter run during Saturday’s O-K Gold Conference Meet at Forest Hills Eastern High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) third-place height of 5-0 in the high jump and Straube was sixth in the 1600 in 5:24.28. Forest Hills Eastern had the best sprinters, winning the 400-meter and 800-meter relay races and putting four girls in the finals in both the 100-meter and 200-meter dashes, but Thornapple Kellogg’s Fiona Shea was the conference’s top sprinter. She won the 100 in 13.08 and the 200 in 26.40. She also teamed with Paige Eyk, Molly Lark and Morgan McNutt for a runner-up finish in the 800-meter relay with a time of 1:51.08. Eyk, Shea, Heather Raymond and McNutt added a third-place finish for TK in the 400-meter relay in 53.21. Erin Ellinger matched Shea’s two wins, taking the discus with a throw of 114-2 and the shot put at 38-7.5. TK had the top three throwers in the shot put, with Aimee Ellinger second at 33-11.5 and DJ Minor third at 338.5. Thornapple Kellogg and Hastings will both head to Mason Friday for their Division 2 Regional Meet. The top two in each event and others who meet the pre-determined times and distances will earn spots in the Division 2 State Finals, which will be held June 2. Hastings’ girls have already earned a spot in the Division 2 MITCA Team State Finals, which will be in Jenison May 26, thanks to a ninth place finish in the final power rankings of the season. Delton and Maple Valley each win one in Nashville by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Neither team was thrilled to be walking away with a split Tuesday. Delton Kellogg’s and Maple Valley’s varsity softball teams each won one game in their Kalamazoo Valley Association doubleheader in Nashville. The Panthers took the opener 21, then the Lions scored a 9-2 win in game two. “I don’t think either one of us really hit the ball that well in the first game,” said Delton Kellogg head coach Kelly Yoder. “In that second game we just made way too many mistakes, couldn’t think the play.” Brooke Martin did a good job of making things tough on the Lion hitters in the opener especially. She struck out nine while allowing four hits and one walk in the winning complete game effort. “She threw a lot of strikes and we did play a lot better defense in that game,” Yoder said. Delton Kellogg broke a 1-1 tie in the top of the sixth inning of game one. Libby Parker walked with two out, and came home on an RBI double by Lacey Miller. Delton scored its first run in the top of the second, as Martin reached on an error and came around to score without the benefit of a hit. Kami McCowan was 2-for-4 with a pair of singles for Delton. Alivia Johncock took the loss for the Lions. She struck out six and walked six, while giving up four hits. The Lions got two singles from Kaitlyn Petersen, including an RBI single in the bottom of the second. Ashley Lesage came around to score the Lions’ lone run, after leading off the inning with a single of her own. Maggie Semrau tripled with one out in the bottom of the third for the Lions, but was picked off third by the Panther catcher McCowan to end the inning. “If they can get, in the first inning, if they can start off hitting right away they can do fine,” said Maple Valley head coach Mary Lesage. “But if they don’t find those hits until towards the end of the game, it just tears them apart. I think it’s just a psychological thing. If they start off well, then they’re good.” The Lions started game two off well. Semrau singled to lead off the top of the first, stole second, and came home to score on a Delton Kellogg’s Cassie Coplin puts her bat on the ball during the bottom of the fifth inning of game two Tuesday afternoon at Maple Valley High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) bunt single by Timara Burd. Burd eventually scored with the help of the first of three Delton errors. The only inning the Lions didn’t score in was the sixth. They tacked on single runs in the second, third and fifth innings, and scored twice in the fourth and the seventh. Petersen had a big game for the Lions, going 3-for-4 with a double and two RBI. She also scored two runs and stole two bases. Burd also had two hits and scored two runs. Maple Valley had ten hits in the win, with Petersen’s fourth inning double the only extra-base hit. Martin took the loss for Delton. She struck out six and walked only one. Beth Richter took the win for the Lions. She struck out three, while walking four and giving up three hits in five innings. Johncock came on to close things out, striking out three in two scoreless innings in the circle. Parker and Miller again teamed up to get the Delton offense going. Parker led off the second inning with a walk, and came home on an RBI double by Miller. Miller eventually scored thanks to Lion miscues. “Our defense was weak tonight. We had more errors than I’m normally used to seeing,” coach Lesage said. Both teams are back in action Thursday afternoon. The Lions host Constantine for two, while Delton Kellogg will be home for two with Schoolcraft. Delton Kellogg shortstop Libby Parker looks to fire towards first after forcing out Maple Valley’s Mazalenna Rhodes at second base during the top of the seventh inning of game two Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Delton baseball drops two KVA games with Parchment Delton Kellogg was no match for Parchment Wednesday. Parchment scored 12-1 and 15-3 wins over Delton in a pair of five inning contests. “Parchment didn’t waste much time in putting it to use in both games,” said Delton Kellogg head coach Bill Humphrey. “They really hit the ball with authority. We didn’t help ourselves in game two, committing six errors, but overall you really have to hand it to the overall skills of the Parchment team.” Parchment had 18 hits in the 12-1 victory to start the afternoon. Brady Vanderweele led the way with four hits, including a double and two triples. Nick Brindley and Zach Eib had the two Delton Kellogg hits. Parchment scored ten runs in the top of the first inning of game two, and went on to the 15-3 win. Eib had a two-run double and an RBI single to drive in all three Delton runs. Zach Young added a single for the Panthers too. Delton is now 3-15 overall this season, and 3-11 in the KVA. �Page 18 — Thursday, May 17, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Panthers’ PRs help them stay on top in the KVA by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Kalamazoo Valley Association is down to one undefeated boys’ track and field team. Delton Kellogg’s boys will take the league lead into Tuesday’s KVA Championship Meet, in Delton, thanks to a 5-0 record in league duals and a win at Tuesday’s five-team KVA Jamboree at Maple Valley High School. Delton and Maple Valley were both undefeated in the league duals. Delton topped the Lions by 16 points at the top of the standing Tuesday, while the Lions managed to just hold off Parchment for the runner-up spot. “Our kids need to step up to the plate like Delton’s did tonight,” said Maple Valley head coach Brian Lincoln. “They wanted it more than we did. It was obvious to me from the get-go.” “I can think of three or four races where Delton just had more guts than us. They outleaned us at the line in two or three events.” There were a couple big showdowns in the hurdles. Delton Kellogg’s Mike Bassett won the 110-meter high hurdles in 16.58 seconds, with teammate Brandon Robbins second in 16.62. Maple Valley had the third, fourth and fifth finishers, with Ryan Nisse coming in at 16.65, Joe Eddy at 18.09 and Doug Sears at 18.15. It was the first time Bassett had ever finished ahead of his teammate Robbins in the event. In the 300-meter intermediate hurdles, Lincoln said all three of his runners were outleaned at the line. Robbins won the race in 42.25, with Eddy second in 42.35. Parchment’s Austin Vandyke was third, two tenths of a second ahead of Nisse. Delton’s Bassett was fifth, just ahead of Sears. The top five scored in each event Tuesday. Delton finished the day with 102 points. Maple Valley had 86 and Parchment 81. Constantine was a distant fourth with 46 points, followed by Hackett Catholic Central with 38. The Panthers took the win with personal records (PRs) all over the field. Delton had four high jumpers with PRs. Ryan Watson won it for Delton, clearing 6-1 in fewer tries than Parchment’s Terrance Moster who was second. Delton also had Billy Schut third at 5-8, Bassett fourth at 5-8, and also had Tucker Onderlinde, who didn’t score, set a PR by clearing 5-6. “Coach (Jim) Hogoboom is working with them every day,” said Delton Kellogg head boys’ coach Dale Grimes. “A couple of them are getting rid of being sick. That might just be a help in itself. I don’t know if he has some secret that he’s got going on over there, but we’ll take it.” Watson also won the 800-meter run in 2 minutes 4.92 seconds and the 1600 in 4:52.88. Delton also got a big PR from Lucas Hansen in the long jump. He was fifth at 186.5, setting a new best by more than two feet. Delton also had Connor Wolschleger third in the long jump at 19-0. In the discus, Delton’s Anthony Bates had a PR with his throw of 117-8, which was good for second place Delton Kellogg’s Mallory Sewell fires off a throw in the discus competition during Tuesday’s KVA Jamboree at Maple Valley High School. She took fifth in the event, after placing first in the day’s shot put competition. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Delton Kellogg’s Brandon Robbins (center right) leaves teammate Phoenix Pease behind as he takes off with the baton, while Maple Valley’s Robbie Welch (left) looks to get a hand-off from teammate Joe Eddy during the 800-meter relay Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The Panthers’ Katie Hayward builds up speed at the start of the 100-meter dash Tuesday at Maple Valley High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) behind Maple Valley’s Keegan Yost. Yost won both the throws for the Lions, going 130-.5 in the discus and 47.9.5 in the shot put. The only other win for the Lions came in the long jump, where Garrett Reid flew 21-4. Reid though was bested for the first time this season in the league in the 100-meter dash, the 200-meter dash and the 400-meter dash. He was second to Parchment’s Jalen Hodgson (11.69 seconds) in the 100, second to Parchment’s Mike Emig (22.90) in the 200, and third behind Emig (50.91) and Delton Kellogg’s Phoenix Pease in the 400. Pease also added a third-place finish in the 200 for Delton. With Emig, Hodgson, Alex Lasher and Brandon Linstead, Parchment won both the 400-meter relay (44.33) and the 800-meter relay (1:32.12). Brandon Blankenship won the pole vault for Parchment at 13-0. Delton and Maple Valley went head to head one last time in the 1600-meter relay, with the Panther team of Tyler Dempsey, Pease, Franklin James and Robbins winning in 3:36.71. Maple Valley’s foursome of Jake Ewing, Robbie Welch, Gunner Tobias and Eddy was second in 3:38.41. A couple distance races were the only events, Delton, Maple Valley or Parchment didn’t win. Hackett’s Michael Elluru took the 3200-meter run in 10:53.13, and he teamed with Austin Elluru, John Mancini and Jake Buday to win the 3200-meter relay in 8:43.40. “A lot of kids just stepped up and really performed well today. I hope that it continues for a few more meets,” Grimes said. There is a good chance that Delton Kellogg, Maple Valley and Parchment could find themselves battling it out for the top three spots again when all ten KVA teams meet in Delton Tuesday. Delton returns to Maple Valley Friday for a Division 3 Regional Meet. Parchment came out on top of the girls’ standings Tuesday, with 99 points. Constantine was second with 83, followed by Maple Valley 76, Delton Kellogg 67 and Hackett Catholic Central 25. Maple Valley’s Jessica Rushford won the three longest races of the day for an individual, taking the 3200-meter run in 12:17.75, the 1600-meter run in 5:23.98 and the 800meter run in 2:29.10. The Lions also won the 3200-meter relay in 10:33.90. In the field Maple Valley had Zoanne Siple take the discus with a mark of 97-5, and Jadelyn Stewart win the pole vault by clearing 8-0. Delton had Mallory Sewell win the shot put at 31-5. She also added a fifth place finish in the discus. Andrea Polley earned Delton Kellogg’s only wins on the track, taking the 100-meter hurdles in 17.29 and the 300-meter low hurdles in 49.66. Delton also had runner-up finishes in the 800-meter relay and the 1600-meter relay, and a second-place finish from Jolen Drum in the 800. She finished just behind Rushford in 2:31.05. Parchment won the three shortest relays, and the three sprints and the high jump. Paige Berg took the high jump for Parchment at 5- 0, the 100 in 13.38 and the 200 in 27.54. Kendyl Hinton took the 400-meter dash in 1:01.51. Delton Kellogg’s Zach Haas stays a step ahead of Hackett Catholic Central’s Austin Elluru during the 1600-meter run Tuesday at Maple Valley High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Thurman ties for lead at jamboree hosted by TK got a 45 from Klotz and a 50 from Fredrik Isgard. Cook led South Christian with a 36, while Catholic Central was led by Luke Headley’s 39. Thornapple Kellogg was led by a 45 from Ben Jazwinski and VanSickle’s 49. TK also got a 52 from Ben Sinclair and a 56 from Koetsier. The Saxons are fifth in the league standings, heading into Monday’s 18-hole conference tournament at The Meadows on the campus of Grand Valley State University. In between those two league jamborees, the by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Hastings’ Dylan Thurman, Caledonia’s Matt Miller and South Christian’s Ben Elenbaas tied for the individual honors at Thursday’s O-K Gold Conference jamboree at Yankee Springs Golf Course. Each shot a 37 to help their team at what was supposed to be the final conference jamboree of the season. The league got together again Tuesday to finish the jamboree at Hastings Country Club, which was postponed because of storms earlier in the season. South Christian won for the sixth time in Saxons took part in the Battle Creek Lakeview Invitational Friday and the Pennfield Invitational Saturday. The Saxons were 11th at the Lakeview tournament hosted at Cedar Creek Golf Course with a score of 343. Lakeview took the day’s title with a 300, followed by Harper Creek 310 and Gull Lake 311 in the 16-team field. Buehler led the Saxons with a 79, while Klotz added an 83, Isgard an 88 and Thurman a 93. Hastings was fourth Saturday at the Pennfield Invitational. The Saxons’ Taylor Klotz lines up a putt on number nine during the O-K Gold Conference Jamboree at Yankee Springs Golf Course Thursday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Hastings’ Danny Buehler chips his ball towards the green on number eight during Thursday’s O-K Gold Conference jamboree on the red nine at Yankee Springs Golf Course. (Photo by Brett Bremer) seven tries Thursday, finishing with a score of 156. Forest Hills Eastern was just two strokes back at 158. Caledonia was third with a 161, the Scots’ third third-place finish of the league season. The top three teams were followed by Grand Rapids Catholic Central 165, Hastings 167, Wayland 178, Thornapple Kellogg 201 and Ottawa Hills NTS. Hastings has been as high as second and as low as sixth at league jamborees this spring. “That’s been it all year,” said Hastings head coach Bruce Krueger. “Inconsistent. Different players play well, and then someone else plays poorly on that night. A lot of it is a lack of focus. They’ve all showed they’re capable of playing well. We just can’t get four of them to do that on the same night very often.” Thurman certainly played well Thursday. “He didn’t really talk that much. He was just all happy and handed me the card. I’m sure that’s the best round he’s ever shot, in competition for sure,” Krueger said. Hastings also got a solid 39 from Taylor Klotz. “A 39 is great for Taylor. Taylor had 11 putts tonight,” Krueger said. Danny Buehler added a 42 and Aaron Williams a 49 for the Saxons. Trojan head coach Bob Kaminski, who’s team struggled on its home course, said his team just hasn’t really been able to put things together all spring long. He was happy to see that they were nearly all out at the driving range after the round though. It hasn’t been because of a lack of hard work. Thornapple Kellogg got a 47 from Kegan Thomas, a pair of 51s from Graham Lince and Josh VanSickle, and a 52 from Alex Koetsier. Behind Elenbaas for South Christian were Ben Cook with a 38, Blake DeVries with a 40 and Nick VanderHorst with a 41. The O-K Gold closed out its season of jamborees Tuesday, finishing off the Hastings jamboree. Catholic Central won in the league for the first time this season, edging South Christian 166 to 168. Caledonia was third with a 171, followed by Hastings 172, Forest Hills Eastern 174, Wayland 193 and Thornapple Kellogg 202. This time Buehler led the Saxons with a 38, and Logan Barrett added a 39. Hastings also The Saxons’ Dylan Thurman taps a putt across the green on number nine during Thursday afternoon’s O-K Gold Conference Jamboree at Yankee Springs Golf Course. (Photo by Brett Bremer) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 17, 2012 — Page 19 Saxons tie TK for fifth at O-K Gold Tournament by Brett Bremer Sports Editor As Hastings third singles player Abbey VanDiver walked off the courts at East Kentwood Saturday following her opening round win over Catholic Central’s Katie Pniewski, Forest Hills Eastern head coach Dan Doerrfeld stopped her. “Did you get that one,” he said. “Yeah,” said VanDiver. “Nice job,” said Doerrfeld. He knew any wins over Catholic Central would be big for his team. The Hawks edged Catholic Central 58 to 50 at the top of the O-K Gold Conference Tournament standings to clinch the outright conference championships in matches played Saturday and Monday in Caledonia and at South Christian’s Sports Park and at East Kentwood High School. South Christian was third with 49 points and Caledonia fourth with 41. Hastings and Thornapple Kellogg tied for fifth place in the tournament with 32 points each. Wayland was seventh with 18 points and Ottawa Hills finished with 0. “The girls had a great day,” said Hastings head coach Julie Severns. “Our goal going into the conference tournament was to beat Middleville. We had a close duel match with them earlier in the season and we were hoping to be able to pull out some wins.” VanDiver not only pulled out a win over the second seeded Pniewski, 6-4, 6-4, in the opening round, but followed that up with a 76(5), 7-5 win over the third seed, Kendall Goosen from Thornapple Kellogg, in the third singles semifinals. VanDiver would finish as the runner-up at the flight, falling to top seeded Madeline Bissett from Forest Hills Eastern 6-1, 6-0 in the championship match. VanDiver was the Saxons’ lone medalist, but she wasn’t the only Saxon who had a good tournament. At fourth singles, Sarah Thornburg was seeded third and finished third. She beat Thornapple Kellogg’s Kaitlyn Telfor in the opening round 6-1, 6-0. Forest Hills Eastern’s Mariah Chapin, the eventual Saxon second singles player Tara Rowe reaches out to hit a backhand shot against Caledonia’s Katrina Carter Saturday during the O-K Gold Conference Tournament at Caledonia High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) flight champion, topped Thornburg in the semifinals 6-2, 6-1, but Thornburg bounced back to beat Caledonia’s Emilee Bont 6-1, 61 in the match for third place. The Saxons’ top two singles players were fifth and sixth. Hannah Smith at first singles, fell to Thornapple Kellogg’s Emmie Beckering 6-1, 6-0 to start the tournament, but then knocked off Wayland’s Jenna Jamieson 6-4, 6-3 and Caledonia’s Paige Pontious 7-5, 6-4 to finish fifth. Smith had fallen to Caledonia’s top player in their regular season meeting. “The ladies knew that going into the tournament each win would help the team move into the top five spots,” said Severns. The Saxons got another fifth place finish from the third doubles team of Emma Hastings third singles player Abbey VanDiver hits a backhand shot back at Catholic Central’s Katie Pniewski during the O-K Gold Conference Tournament at East Kentwood High School Saturday morning. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Hastings’ Kelsi Harden hits a forehand return during an opening round first doubles match against Caledonia at the O-K Gold Conference Tournament Saturday morning in Caledonia. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Anderson and Kaitlyn Allan. They fell to Division 3 Regional Tournament Friday. Forest Hills Eastern in the opening round, “We know that there will be lots of strong then topped Wayland 6-2, 6-3 and Thornapple teams competing, but we are all looking to Kellogg’s Whitney McCullough and Hannah win some matches,” Severns said. Lamberg 6-2, 6-3 in the match for fifth. Thornapple Kellogg heads to Forest Hills Hastings’ Tara Rowe at second singles, the Eastern for its Division 3 Regional first doubles team of Kelsi Harden and Sarah Tournament Thursday. Sleevi and the fourth doubles team of Kara The Trojans had three fourth-place finishes Cuncannan and Meg Travis each finished lead the way at the conference tournament. sixth. The Saxon second doubles team of Beckering was fourth at first singles. She Tessa Johnson and Eric Krouse was seventh. bested Smith but then ran into the conferThe Saxons picked up default wins over ence’s top player, Sydney Liggins from Ottawa Hills at all four of those flights. Catholic Central, in the semifinals and fell 6Harden and Sleevi lost a tough match for fifth 0, 6-0. Liggins lost only one game all day, to Thornapple Kellogg’s Claudia Dykstra and topping South Christian’s Paige Courts 6-1, Hannah Bayshore 6-2, 4-6, 6-1. 6-0 in the championship match. “The doubles teams are playing stronger, Goosen started the day with a 6-2, 6-2 win which will be key going into regionals,” said over Wayland’s Emily Cross in the third sinSeverns. “Our singles players have continued gles flight, before falling to VanDiver in the earning the majority of the points throughout semifinals. the season and we are counting on the doubles TK’s fourth doubles team of Megan Zoet teams to add to those on Friday.” and Erin Leach won its opening round match The Saxons head to Holland for their by default against Ottawa Hills. DK gets good test from Hastings before tourney Delton Kellogg’s Brianna Russell lifts teammate Sarah Rendon off the ground as they celebrate the goal which gave the Panthers a 3-2 lead over visiting Hastings in the final minutes Friday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) assists. In the 9-1 win over Maple Valley to start the league tournament Monday, Delton had eight different girls score goals. Russell had two, and Rendon, Hammond, Sam Zettelmaier, Poling, Kanoe Chaffee, Rachel Parker and Risner had one each. Breanna Heinze had the lone goal for the Lions, making the score 4-1 midway through the first half. Hastings’ Dani Meredith clears the ball out of a crowd that includes Delton Kellogg’s Brianna Russell and her Saxon teammate Haley Wagner (3). (Photo by Brett Bremer) Monday. They were scheduled to face Hackett Catholic Central in Delton last night. The KVA Tournament championship game will be played Friday, with the winner of Wednesday’s contest between Delton and Hackett likely to face top seeded Kalamazoo Christian in the final. “This was a great match to have because it was a good head to head battle. It was some good practice for us to get ready for the KVA and Hackett. We’ve been playing a lot of lesser teams so we haven’t had a lot of competition. It feels good,” Webster said. “(Hastings) made a couple of good runs, and we made a mistake or two and they got one in. We had good ball control. They made some good runs though. We didn’t have control the whole time. It was a pretty even match.” Hastings put its first good run together in the opening minute of the game Friday. Jennifer Jarman send a crossing pass through the Delton defense from her spot as an outside midfielder, which found teammate Jenny Feldpausch on the other side. She onetouched a shot to the far post to put Hastings up 1-0 40 seconds into the game. “You couldn’t have asked for a better sequence of passes and a finish in just 30 some odd seconds,” said Hastings head coach Sarah Smith. “We haven’t been able to do that all season, so it was beautiful to see.” The Saxons held that lead for more than 20 minutes, but Delton tied the game and then took a 2-1 lead in the final 17 minutes of the first half. Aryka Poling finished off a free kick for the Panthers, with an assist to Russell, for Delton’s first goal. Russell then found the back of the net with 3:23 to play in the half thanks to an assist from Phommavongsa. “We held strong, attacking for a bit, then we just started struggling to keep up with their speed up top,” Smith said. “We are pretty fast in the back, but they were very fast on the attack. They have some really fast girls attacking, not just one or two players, four of them. That’s what you ask for as a coach, and they have it.” Hastings tied the game at 2-2 11 minutes into the second half, on Feldpausch’s second goal of the game. Feldpausch fired a shot to the front post, and Dani Meredith made a nice attacking run for the Saxons to make sure it was in. Smith was happy to see her worn down team compete, after a tough week which included league losses to Wayland and Forest Hills Eastern. Delton’s week wasn’t quite as tough. They topped visiting Parchment 8-0 Wednesday in Delton to close out the KVA regular season with a 5-1 mark. “Our competition has been a little less. I feel like Hackett and K-Christian are playing the Gull Lakes, the Caledonias and much tougher teams than we’re playing, so we got a little lazy. This (Hastings) game helped us improve that. We know what’s coming up. We beat (Hackett) already. We’ve got to beat them again.” Phommavongsa had three goals, Russell two, and Poling, Alea Hammond and Jaime Risner one each in Delton’s 8-0 win over Parchment Wednesday. Rendon had three Delton Kellogg’s Hannah Phommavongsa races past Parchment’s Guadalupe Torres during Wednesday’s KVA contest in Delton. (Photo by Perry Hardin) SAXON WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE Complete online schedule at: www.hassk12.org THURSDAY, MAY 17 3:45 PM 4:00 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM 5:00 PM Boys Girls Boys Boys Boys Girls Girls Girls Varsity Varsity Varsity JV Fresh. JV Fresh. JV Golf Softball Baseball Baseball Baseball Softball Softball Soccer 6:45 PM Girls Varsity Soccer Hastings HS Hastings Inv. Pennfield HS DH Wayland Union HS Pennfield HS DH Pennfield HS DH Pennfield HS DH Jenison HS DH South Christian HS Gold Conf. Tournament South Christian HS Conf. @ South Christian H A A H A H A A A FRIDAY, MAY 18 9:00 AM 2:00 PM 2:00 PM 3:30 PM 3:30 PM 4:15 PM 4:15 PM Girls Boys Girls Boys Girls Boys Boys Varsity Varsity Varsity MS MS Varsity JV Tennis Track Track Track Track Baseball Baseball Reg. @ Holland Christian A Regionals @ Mason A Regionals @ Mason A Ionia MS A Ionia MS A Jenison HS DH A Jenison HS H Saturday, May 21 continued 4:15 PM Girls Varsity Softball 4:15 PM Girls Fresh. Softball Forest Hills E. HS DH South Christian HS (5 inning DH) H A W.M. Champs-TBA W.M. Champs-TBA A A Conf. Tournament-TBA Conf. Tournament-TBA GR Christian Single Game Forest Hills E. HS DH Forest Hills E. HS DH Wayland Union HS DH H H H TUESDAY, MAY 22 3:00 PM Boys Varsity Track 3:00 PM Girls Varsity Track WEDNESDAY, MAY 23 TBA Girls Varsity Soccer TBA Girls JV Soccer 4:15 PM Boys Varsity Baseball 4:15 PM Boys JV 4:15 PM Girls JV 4:15 PM Girls Fresh. Baseball Softball Softball A A H Times and dates subject to change Thanks to This Week’s Sponsor: SATURDAY, MAY 19 9:00 AM Girls Varsity Softball 9:00 AM Girls JV Softball Charlotte HS Charlotte Inv. A Saranac Saranac Inv. A The Meredith Agency SATURDAY, MAY 21 TBA Girls Varsity Soccer TBA Girls JV Soccer 9:00 AM Boys Varsity Golf 3:45 PM Boys JV Golf 4:15 PM Boys Varsity Baseball 4:15 PM Boys Fresh. Baseball FARM BUREAU MUTUAL•FARM BUREAU LIFE•FARM BUREAU GENERAL Conf. Tournament-TBA Conf. Tournament-TBA Conf. @ GRCC @ Meadows Conf. @ GRCC @ Centennial Forest Hills E. HS DH S. Christian HS DH H H A 269-945-4520 Good Luck Saxon Soccer! A H A HASTINGS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS Contact Nancy 945-2742 or hastingsathleticboosters@gmail.com to sponsor the schedule 77567807 by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Panthers got what they wanted out of its visit from Hastings Friday. A win, and a little bit of a wake-up call. The Delton Kellogg varsity girls’ soccer team improved to 13-1 on the season with a 42 victory over the Saxons in Delton. Delton Kellogg’s Sarah Rendon blasted a shot that Hastings goalkeeper Bre Sinclair dove at top keep out of the net, but the Panthers’ Brianna Russell was right there to hit the loose ball into the net. That goal broke a 2-2 tie with 5 minutes and 40 seconds left to play. Rendon, and Hannah Phommavongsa who set up Rendon’s shot with a nice pass ahead, earned assists. Phommavongsa also assisted on Rendon’s goal with 17 seconds left to play. They performed a nice little give-and-go in the middle of the field, and Rendon lifted a shot over Sinclair and into the net. “They want Sarah to get those shots every game, and they usually either go over or wide frankly,” said Delton Kellogg head coach Tracy Webster with a smile on her face. “She’s a great assister. She doesn’t shoot much. When they go in for her, it’s just exciting. A great shot to end the game.” It had been a great game throughout, which was something the Panthers needed heading into this week’s Kalamazoo Valley Association Tournament. The Panthers improved to 14-1 by opening the conference tournament with a 9-1 win over Maple Valley �Page 20 — Thursday, May 17, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Thornapple Arts Council hosts student art show Thornapple Arts Council Executive Director Megan Lavell (center) talks to Hastings City Manager Jeff Mansfield during the student art show reception. At left: A mixed media drawing by Hastings senior Alexandra Azarcon is an example of the talent exhibited at the show. Many parents and non-art students visited, and art students who attended the show received extra credit. Students in a cooking class at the high school provided refreshments. The artwork of Hastings High School senior Hannah Alspaugh is on display at the reception. Alspaugh will be attending Savannah College of Art and Design this fall. Barry County Administrator Michael Brown (right) and others stop by to view artwork at the Thornapple Arts Council Student Art Show, which was on display at the Barry Community Enrichment Center. At right: Many student self-portraits adorn the walls at the student art show. More than 100 people attended the reception with 30 pieces of artwork selling for $5 to $30. The Hastings artists receive half the money and the other half goes to the Hastings High School Art Department for art supplies. Below: Hundreds of pieces of art are displayed at the Thornapple Arts Council Student Art Show. HHS National Art Honors Society members worked more than 25 hours to put the show together. 77567778 � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-05-24.pdf 07b6f0c2bb1d93ebb1682bbb5a7267b7 PDF Text Text Reprimand preceded finance director’s resignation Sheriff should give up control of shelter DK the only team to beat KVA golf champs See Story on Page 10 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 17 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 21 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, May 24, 2012 Yankee Springs and Orangeville townships ban fracking, urge others to follow by David DeDecker Staff Writer Yankee Springs Township was the first in Barry County to approve a resolution banning the process of hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, to drill for natural gas. Yankee Springs passed a resolution May 10. Orangeville Township followed by unanimously passing a resolution May 15. Yankee Springs and Orangeville townships utilized the same attorney to compose their resolutions. The approved copy from Orangeville reads, “... goes on record to strongly urge the Barry County Commissioners, Michigan Legislature and governor to place a ban on the future horizontal hydraulic fracturing for the commercial extraction of natural gas until the safety of the processes and its related chemicals have been fully investigated and vetted through the Michigan and U.S. Environmental Protection agencies. “It is further resolved that the Township of Orangeville supports the FRAC (Fracturing Responsibility and Awareness of Chemicals) Act and BREATHE (Bringing Reductions to Energy’s Airborne Toxic Health Effects) Act, and the clerk is to forward certified copies of this Resolution to the Barry County commissioners, governor’s office and the leadership of the Michigan House and Senate.” In a phone conversation May 22, Orangeville Township Clerk Jennifer Goy Band boosters hosting retirement reception Hastings Area Schools band instructor Joan Schroeder is retiring after 28.5 years with the district. The Hastings Band Boosters invite the community to a retirement open house from 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 26, at the Hastings Area Schools Community Center. Cake and punch will be served. The Hastings Dog Park will celebrate its first anniversary Monday, May 28, directly after the Memorial Day Parade. The community is invited to visit the park for cookies and beverages provided by Friends of the Hastings Dog Park. The dog park is located behind the wastewater treatment plant on West Apple Street. Sign-up underway for chamber golf outing The 26th annual Barry County Chamber Golf Outing will be Friday, June 8, at the Hastings Country Club. The event is the chamber’s largest fundraiser, enabling the organization to provide county-wide services to its members and the community. The outing also features several contest holes, including a $10,000 hole-inone contest, as well as longest-drive, most-accurate and closest-to-the-pin contests for the chance to win Chamber Barry Bucks. Interested golfers or businesses should contact the chamber no later than May 31 to register. Team registration is $395 which includes golf for four, lunch and eligibility for door prizes. Tickets for the raffle are available for purchase at the chamber office for $5 each or five for $20. Ticket holders need not be present to win. Teams or individuals wishing to golf should register by calling 269-945-2454 or emailing lynn@mibarry.com. For more information, visit www.mibarry.com. Barry County at a May 8 Michigan Department of Natural Resources auction. That auction included the leasing right of more than 91,000 acres of state-owned land across Michigan. More than 25 percent of that land — 23,419 acres — are in Barry County. James Olsen, an environmental attorney, will attend the May 29 meeting to discuss local resolutions and further options for residents of Barry County. The meeting will begin at 7 p.m. in the Yankee Springs Township Hall, 284 N. Briggs Road. Judge upholds tenure charges against elementary phys ed teacher NEWS BRIEFS Hastings Dog Park turns 1 confirmed copies of the signed resolution have been sent to the Barry County commissioners, State Rep. Mike Callton, and Gov. Rick Snyder. The Payne Lake Homeowners Association, based in Yankee Springs Township, will be holding a special educational meeting May 29 to further address the issue of possible fracking and the sale of oil and gas leasing rights in the Barry State Game Area. Meridian Land Group of Haslett reportedly purchased most of the leases to public land in Jim James receives Book of Golden Deeds Award The Hastings Exchange Club awarded Jim James the 2012 Book of Golden Deeds Award for his contributions to the community. James, pictured here with his wife, Tammy, was presented the award at a combined luncheon of Hastings Exchange, Rotary and Kiwanis clubs at the Barry Community Enrichment Center Wednesday, May 23. by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Almost a year after then-Hastings Area Schools Assistant Superintendent Michelle Falcon filed misconduct charges against Hastings Area Schools elementary physical education teacher Janice Bowers, a Michigan Administrative Law Judge has upheld the charges and granted the district’s request to discharge Bowers from her employment. “Hastings Area Schools has received a decision in its tenure hearing,” said Falcon, who is currently serving as the district’s interim superintendent. “The administrative law judge of the State of Michigan has upheld the discharge of the teacher and agrees the conduct of said teacher warrants discharge.” Charges filed by Falcon alleged that Bowers engaged in sexually inappropriate contact with a female high school student 23 years ago. School administration became aware of the allegations in February of 2011 when the woman reported the alleged inappropriate relationship to Falcon after the woman became concerned about her own children having to take physical education classes from Bowers. In his conclusion, Ward cited the woman’s testimony, “Because my first priority is my [children], I was not going to let them have happen to them what happened to me at any cost ... I dealt with things and I moved on. And that’s what I did until it was my babies that were close to that situation ... I had to do something, because couldn’t allow my [children] to go through that ...” The woman went on to say that while she could have protected her children from possible harm by pulling them from Bowers’ class, she was also concerned about other children whom she could not protect. A second charge alleged that, 10 years ago, Bowers told school personnel that she had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer when she, in fact, had not. In his concluding statements, issued May 17, Administrative Law Judge James Ward said that while Bowers denied all substantive allegations relating to the charges, he found her denials untruthful. He also said that Bowers’ parents and a sister, who testified on her behalf, have an interest in the outcome of the case while the woman who made the allegations and her witness had no motive to falsify their testimonies. “I find the testimony of [name withheld] and [name withheld] very compelling ... I find that [name withheld] testified truthfully regarding the relevant facts relating to the charges ... [name withheld] does not have a motive to falsely accuse Ms. Bowers of sexual misconduct. Further, [name withheld] twice attempted to avoid disclosing Ms. Bowers’ misconduct ... It was only after Ms. Bowers had personal contact with [name withheld’s child] in the swimming pool during physical education class that [name withheld] went to [Mrs.] Falcon and disclosed Ms. Bowers’ misconduct ... I further conclude that Ms. Bowers’ sexual misconduct with a student warrants her discharge.” Bowers, who has been a teacher in Hastings Area Schools since 1985, has been on paid administrative leave since the charges were filed. Her employment with the district was terminated as of May 17. She will recieve no retirement or other compensation from the district. Bowers has until Wednesday, June 6, to file an exception with the state tenure commission. Bowers could not be reached for comment. Motion for Terpening case to be dismissed is denied On the afternoon of May 23, Michael Terpening was again in Barry County Circuit Court. Defense attorney Thomas Schaeffer and Michigan Assistant Attorney General Angela Povilaitis both had legal motions to make before Judge Amy McDowell. Those motions included dismissal of the case, a request to quash certain information, and a change of trial venue. The defense’s dismissal motion on the grounds of due process stemmed from allegations of witness tampering, specifically, by the Barry County Prosecutor’s Office. A key witness took the stand and was questioned by both sides about his perception of being coerced, threatened, or manipulated by government authorities. He was also asked about supporters of the defendant coercing or manipulating his testimony. The defense also spoke about an assistant prosecutor allegedly contacting the defendant through his Facebook page. The AAG stated Facebook was a public forum and the Assistant Prosecutor did not personally or directly contact the defendant. McDowell denied the motion and said the defendant was not deprived of due process in this instance nor did the proof of allegations rise to the level so grievious as to cause dismissal. The second motion was to quash certain information. The defense said the issue of coercion and consent runs through all 13 charges and said there is no statute which states that, just because someone runs an organization, he is forcing or coercing someone into an act. Defense felt District Court Judge Michael Schipper had abused his discretion during the preliminary exam in order to bind his client over to Circuit Court. McDowell denied the motion to quash stating there was probable cause to bind over the 13 charges. The third motion brought by defense was for change of trial venue due to pretrial publicity on the internet, television, and in the newspaper. Defense said his client could not receive a fair trial in Barry County. McDowell denied the motion stating pretrial publicity is not enough for a change of venue. She stated the courts have called 200 citizens as a pool of possible jurors and felt a jury could be found which was not biased toward the defendant. As of press time, more motions in the Michael Terpening case were still being presented. Watch for updates in future issues of the Hastings Banner and Reminder. Communities planning Memorial Day services throughout weekend Memorial Day is observed on the last Monday of May. It was formerly known as Decoration Day and commemorates all men and women who have died in military service for the United States. Many people visit cemeteries and memorials on Memorial Day, which also is traditionally seen as the start of the summer season. In observance of this special holiday visit a cemetery, placing flags or flowers on the graves of fallen heroes, attend a local parade or special celebration, (see related story) fly a flag at your home or business — do something to show your gratitude to those who gave their lives for our freedoms. See page 10 for a listing of local Memorial Day observances. �Page 2 — Thursday, May 24, 2012 — The Hastings Banner School board honors staff retirees Gilmore Car Museum’s Dave Hatfield (center) holds the Region 3 “Champion for Children” award with BISD Superintendent Jeff Jennette (left) and Region 3 President, Dave Sipka. Gilmore Garage Works program wins ‘Champion for Children’ award The Region 3 Michigan Association of School Administrators has recognized the Gilmore Garage Works program at the Gilmore Museum as a “Champion for Children.” The award honors an individual or group that has shown tremendous effort, dedication and enthusiasm to enriching the lives of children and their achievement in schools. Dave Hatfield, Gilmore Car Museum’s director of external affairs, was on hand to receive the award and discussed Gilmore’s commitment toward educating students and Gilmore Garage Works being one of those programs. He also spoke of the museum’s role in the community. “This is great recognition for Gilmore Museum and Barry County,” said Jeff Jennette, Barry Intermediate School District superintendent. “I knew the competition would be tough due to other programs offered in Region 3. I am glad that the committee thought that GGW is doing great things for Barry County students. One of the criteria for the award is that individuals or programs have demonstrated a commitment to improving the lives of children in their region, and GGW has definitely done that.” Currently, students from Delton Kellogg, Hastings, Thornapple Kellogg, Gull Lake, Parchment and other districts participate in the hands-on, disciplined auto repair and restoration program. Students meet with mentors Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4 to 6 p.m., and transportation is provided. “The Gilmore Museum is truly honored to receive this award and to be recognized the MASA for our efforts,” said Hatfield. “We are fortunate to have some great benefactors and mentors to make programs like Gilmore Garage Works a success for those involved.” Hatfield also mentioned the museum recently received a grant from the Kalamazoo Community Foundation to help with transportation costs for Kalamazoo County students it serves. For more information on the Gilmore Museum Garage Works Program for high school students, call Jennette, 269-945-9545 ext. 111. MASA Region 3 encompasses school districts in Allegan, Barry, Ionia, Kent, Lake, Mason, Mecosta, Montcalm, Muskegon, Newaygo, Oceana, Osceola and Ottawa counties. Available for photo after being recognized by the Hastings Board of Education upon there retirement from Hastings Area Schools are (front row, from left) Patricia Lynn Fleischer-Gibson, Dolores Garland, Patricia LaJoye, Alice Gergen, Deb Mepham, (back) Janet Foley, Julie Ackerson, Kim O’Mara, Wendy Frame, Deb VanderVeen and Kim Evans. Before it’s regular May meeting, the Hastings Area Schools Board of Education and administration held a reception to honor the 25 teachers and staff members who are retiring at the end of the 2011-12 school year. Among them, the faculty and staff have a combined 580.8 years of experience that administrators said will be missed. Following is a list of 2012 Hastings Area Schools retirees along with the number of years they served the district; Julie Ackerson, Northeastern and Southeastern elementary Title I teacher, 34 years; Robbin Bates, middle school custodian, 15.75 years; Joan Bosserd-Schroeder, middle and high school band instructor, 28.5 years; Cheryl Boyd, Northeastern and Southeastern food service, 6.75 years; Donald Converse, district-wide custodian, 26 years; Kim Evans, elementary and classroom teacher, district-wide elementary art teacher, 27 years; Susan Fecko, Southeastern special education teacher, 36 years; Patricia Lynn Fleischer-Gibson, middle school English teacher, 23 years; Janet Foley, middle school math teacher, 27.75 years; Wendy Frame, Northeastern special education teacher, 32 years; Dolores Garland, Northeastern elementary teacher, 23 years; Alice Gergen, Northeastern elementary teacher, 28.5 years; Stephen Gibson, middle school custodian, 24 years; Frederik Hayes, bus driver, 24.8 years; Frank Huss, high school custodian, 12.75 years; Robert Kruko, grounds and maintenance, 33.5 years; Patricia LaJoye, middle and high school choir teacher, 29 years; Deborah Mepham, middle school art teacher, 16 years; Lucy Miller, bus driver, 25.25 years; Kim O’Mara, middle school history and computers teacher, 14 years; Geraldine Pyles, high school English language arts teacher, 18 years; Karl Schwartz, high school social studies teacher, 25.5 years; Marcia Sherman, middle school custodian, 14.75 years; Debra VanderVeen, Star Elementary kindergarten teacher, 15 years; and, Karen Whitney, community child care teacher, 20 years. The retirees and their families and friends were treated to cookies and punch during the reception. Administrators recognized each of the retirees present with a brief summary of their accomplishments during their service to the district, as well as their plans for the future. Each retiree also was presented with a certificate of appreciation and a flowering hanging basket. GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 269-945-9554 for more information. Trolley Around Town FREE TROLLEY RIDES Ride downtown for dinner, view the new sculptures, shop, get some ice cream, have coffee or drinks, visit the park... Fridays from 6pm to 10pm Now thru August 17 201 S. JEFFERSON ST., HASTINGS (corner of Jefferson & Court St.) 269-945-0100 The City of Hastings will be the venue this summer for the newest Trolley route. Every Friday night, now through August 17, the Trolley will ring through the streets from 6pm to 10pm. Catch it at any of the schools in the city limits, any city park, and other designated stops, or just flag it down on its route. All rides FREE compliments of the local businesses listed here. 269.945.3412 312 E. Court St., Hastings Look to us for all your jewelry, watch and clock repairs. Gilmore Jewelers 102 E. State Street In the Heart of Hastings RESTAURANTE 269-945-9572 945-4403 • 131 South Jefferson, Hastings www.gilmorejewelers.com HOURS: Mon. - Thurs. 11-8; Fri. 11-9; Sat. 11-8:30; Sun. 12-3 Join us on Facebook 1120 West Green, Hastings 945-4174 • Live Music • Outdoor Dining Browse through our site: www.countyseatlounge.com 128 South Jefferson St. Downtown Hastings 269-945-2401 269.948.4042 150 W. Court St., Hastings, MI 49058 Est. 1983 • comfortably, sophisticated ambiance • unique flavor combinations • enviable wine list • signature cocktails • unrivaled coffees 150 W. State St. • Downtown Hastings • 269.948.9222 SeasonalGrille.com Thank you Barry County Transit would like to thank the City of Hastings, and the sponsoring merchants for their help in making this service possible. 77568113 945-3405 404 E. Woodlawn Ave. Hastings, MI 49058 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 24, 2012 — Page 3 GED Program brings community collaboration and success by David DeDecker Staff Writer Through a unique community collaboration, the Barry County Intermediate School District and Barry County Community Corrections, including the jail, have brought General Education Develpment testing to Hastings. Tutoring and tests are conducted both at the BISD and the Barry County Jail. In less than a year, the program has gone from an idea to awarding its first graduates. The GED, which is considered a high school diploma equivalent, is a series of five tests which can be taken all at once, or individually as the student feels prepared. A passing grade must be attained on all five tests to obtain a GED. Barry County Circuit Court Judge Amy McDowell has been ordering those sentenced to probation, without a high school diploma, to complete their GED as part of probation. The general public can sign up for GED classes and testing at BISD. According to attorney David Tripp, who welcomed the GED community collaborators to Kiwanis on May 9, people need the GED or High School Diploma as a minimum, and explained no longer can you walk into an employer without one or the other. BISD Superintendent Jeff Jennette said, “Employability is step one.” Jennette explained when people come into MichiganWorks, which is part of BISD, the first thing determined is level of education and skill set. He said in the past, if a person wanted to obtain their GED, they needed to travel numerous times to the southwest corner of Barry County to the Michigan Career and Technical Institute. “Most people have transportation issues and just couldn’t get to MCTI,” said Jennette, “So, BISD looked into being a GED testing site. “It was typical bureaucracy. It was a pain in the neck getting through it. We had to apply through the state. They sent it to D.C., they lost it in D.C., then they approved it in D.C. and sent it back to the state. I told the group we would be ready to go by January 1, but was told ‘Oh no, you have to run it through the state again.’ Finally, we are up and running as a GED Testing Site. “We have given the tests three times now, and are seeing a good success rate. We are seeing 18- to 35-year-olds. I expect them to say it was the school that made them drop out, but it comes back to parents. Parents might move, or move a lot, and the kid gets lost in the shuffle.” Jennette said very few people walk into the testing site and want to take all five tests. He said they may take the Social Studies test, and then study for a couple of months before taking the Reading or Math test. “I can tell you the self-esteem of those who come into the program and those in the jail is pretty low,” he said. One young woman, according to Jennette, sat down to take her first test and was very nervous because she had not done well in high school. On her first test she scored over the 99 percentile. When she was told how well she had done, Jennette said you could see her sit up straighter with pride. Jeff Westra, Program Director of Barry County Community Corrections, was able to access money for a teacher, but didn’t have the ability to do GED testing. “BISD had put together the program for testing and we had a program for tutoring, which was a perfect fit,” said Westra. “We had money for people to learn the material, but we didn’t have anywhere nearby for them to take the tests. “We have really streamlined the process. We now have pre-testing to see where people need the most help with studying, and tailor the program specifically for them. “Through the court system, we have had 25 people come into the GED program since Jan. Captain Bill Johnson, of the Barry County Sheriff’s Department, speaks to Hastings Kiwanis about the community benefits of those in jail completing a GED. Hastings High School students place at MITES competition During the first week of May, students from across Michigan participated in the Michigan Industrial and Technology Education Society project competitions. Nine students from Hastings High School entered 27 projects in the regional-level competition, and 22 of those projects received a first through fourth place award and advanced to the state competition. At the state level, 13 projects placed in the top 10, and seven placed in the top three. Some students participated in more than one division. At the state level in the mechanical drawing division senior Brandon Johnson took a first place and a second place award with his reverse-engineered small-block Chevrolet engine. A third place award went to sophomore Ethan Haywood with his water pump assembly, and two third place awards were received by senior Alex Nichols with his reverse-engineered truck axle. Johnson also won a sixth place award, and a seventh place award went to Nichols. Johnson and Nichols also took an eighth place award for their group project design of the senior class party ticket. Haywood also received a ninth place award, as did junior Brandon Secord with a computer-aided design detail drawing of a motor housing. In the architectural drawing division, senior Joe Krebs and sophomore Shelby VanderMel took a second place with their log cabin group project. In the open and woods divisions, juniors Katie Endsley and Amber Pickard took a third and fourth place, respectively, in the stained glass competition, and both received honorable mention awards in the wood burning and carving competition. Amy Graham speaks to Hastings Kiwanis about employers looking first for a high school diploma or a GED. 20 of this year. Eight people have taken tests for a total of 24 tests so far.” Amy Graham, along with Jennette, has been qualified by the state to administer GED testing. Graham is part of the MichiganWorks team. “We have tested 15 people from the general public, and given 57 individual assessments, with 54 passing, so the success rate is 94.7 percent,” said Graham. “Seven of the people who have taken tests have attained their GED. We just had 15 people sign up to take the Math test and our capacity is 20. “We have a whole population of people who really don’t know how to job search. It used to be a person would walk into an employer, fill out and application, maybe have an interview, and start work. For years education was not an issue. Today, it is the number one barrier. The number one screening question for employers is education. If a person does not have a GED or high school diploma, their application is immediately put in the ‘No’ basket.” Captain Bill Johnson of the Barry County Sheriff’s Department oversees the Barry County Jail. He has been with the Barry County Jail long enough to see the third generation of families coming through the door. He told Kiwanis breaking the cycle is vital, and education is the key. “When you look at the jail population, 30 to 40 percent do not have a high school diploma or GED,” said Johnson. “These kids have come out of the woodwork wanting their GED. We have an average of 15 kids in our jail classes on Fridays. When they get their GED, they are very proud of themselves. A GED is quite an accomplishment for them. They have been through the school systems and dropped out because they never fit in maybe because they were dyslexic or had another learning disability. It’s a God-send for the kids on the inside. What keeps them from coming back, possibly, is a job and a GED.” For more information on GED classes and how to register, call the Barry Intermediate School District at 269-948-0457, or MichiganWorks at 269-945-9545 ext. 144. Joe Krebs (left), Shelby VanderMel and Nick Replogle display projects and ribbons from the MITES competition. Katie Endsley (left) Amber Pickard and Ethan Haywood show work that was in the MITES competitio Hastings High School students (from left) Brandon Johnson, Alex Nichols, Brandon Secord display work that placed at the state MITES competition Baccalaureate celebrated at St. Rose St. Rose of Lima Parish in Hastings celebrated its graduating seniors Sunday, May 20, with a special baccalaureate Mass. Each graduate was presented a Bible, and the students and their families were treated to a luncheon afterward. The church’s teen choir provided music for the Mass. Participating students will be graduating in the coming weeks from Hastings, Thornapple Kellogg and Lansing Catholic high schools, Barry County Christian School and home schools. Pictured are (front row, from left) Zack Zwiernikowski, Alexis Arens, Megan Denny, Hannah Smith, Laura McKeown, Jenna Nedbalek, Mitchell Kolanowski, Ben Klein (middle) Micala Klipfer, Chad Singleterry, Taylor Klotz, Jennifer Feldpausch, Hannah Sailar, Kara Cuncannan, Dalten White, Keith Garber, (back) Alexis Orgradinzski, Carl Franson, Marie Feldpausch, Father Richard Altine and Nick Newton. Missing from photo are Kelly Dillon, Andrew Green, Evan Ramsey, Alex Roy, Rebecca Senard, Adam Sinclair, Sarah Sleevi, Dylan Thurman and Orion Webb. EMS Week: May 21-25, 2012 LifeCare Ambulance Service is proud to acknowledge the dedication and professionalism of the many men and women who provide our community with quality ambulance service. We ask you to join us as we honor our Paramedics, Emergency Medical Technicians, Medical First Responders, Emergency Medical Dispatchers, and support staff ready to respond 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to your medical care and transportation needs. Serving southern Barry County since 1988 77568130 Visit our website at: www.lifecareems.org �Page 4 — Thursday, May 24, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Irises of many sizes, colors and shades are blooming in gardens and yards across the area. The iris genus reportedly includes nearly 300 species, ranging in color from shades of white, yellow, pink, blue, burgundy, purple and more, including various combinations. How many different colors of irises do you notice around town? For the good of animals, sheriff should give up shelter management We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. We’ll select a photograph for publication each week. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Do you know? Do you recognize this young man who appears to be getting ready to pole vault? Do you know when or why the photo was taken? Do you know where? The ground to his right appears to be recently dug up and leveled. Is this a new track, a refurbished track? Do you know what direction the photographer was facing? What can you tell us about this photo? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event to reunite the photos with their original clippings or identify photos that may never have been used. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@jadgraphics.com; or call 269-945-9554. Last week’s photo of an outdoor graduation for Hastings High School June 3, 1949, had more information than most other ‘mystery photos’ published here; local historian Esther Walton had added some names and dates to the photo. Reader Dorotha Cooper called this week to share more information. Mildred Smith, Cooper’s mother, was president of the school board at the time. D.A. VanBuskirk was superintendent of schools, and Ed Taylor, of whose name we were uncertain, was the high school principal. Cooper said commencement ceremonies were moved to the football field that year Have you because Central Auditorium, the normal venue for commencement, had just endured a fire. Apparently, the week before, the seniors rehearsed for their annual Class Night, a blend of spoof and talent, at Central Auditorium. They left at 10:30 p.m. A fire was reported around 2:30 a.m. Some speculated smoking was the cause, others said it was an electrical fire. Whatever the cause, curtains and seats were destroyed, rendering the normal commencement venue unfit for ceremonies the following week. The only site large enough to accommodate graduation was the football field. The rain began to fall hard enough, Marilyn Cotant told Cooper, that the dye from the gowns bled through to the men’s white shirts and women’s white dresses. The diplomas were soggy and later had to be traded for official documents. met? As two members of a family of 10 born to an itinerant Church of God preacher, Bob and Don MacKenzie saw a lot of country. When they got to Algonquin Lake in Hastings, though, they knew they’d found home. The brothers each built a house on the lake and raised families, Bob had four girls and a boy; Don, four boys and a girl. Each spent most of his working life at Hastings Manufacturing and leisure hours on the lakes and in the woods of Barry County. Of the 10 siblings, four still survive, including younger brother, Gene MacKenzie, 81, of Frankfort. Though Don sold his house some years ago to take up residence at Oakview Adult Foster Care Home near Hastings, Bob still resides in his home on a hill overlooking the lake below. For their nearly lifelong devotion to and still-strong love for the area, the MacKenzies are honored as this week’s bright lights. Greatest memory Don: Getting on this lake. Bob: When I became a Christian as a boy. How old are you guys? Don: I’m 87. Bob: I’m 94, but I tell everybody I’m 80. Occupation Bob: Hastings Manufacturing, 29 years. Don: Hastings Manufacturing and I can’t remember how long. Favorite family story Bob: Our dad worked on the farm for Henry Ford. Don: They hunted and fished together, too. At night they divided up their catch and Mr. Ford would always give dad most of it. Greatest regret Don: I wish I would have stayed on this lake. Advice you’d give a youngster Bob: Tell your family to love you and you love them. Don: Don’t drink, don’t smoke, go to church and don’t be bashful. Favorite author Don: Louis L’Amour Brothers Don (left) and Bob MacKenzie talk about mischief — the kind they caused as youngsters and the kind they’re still capable of today. Bob: Me, too. Favorite sport Bob: The Detroit Lions. Don: Shuffledboard. I shuffled all over, got first place once and second place a lot of times. If you can win or get second place, you feel good. Favorite music Bob: Banjo. Don: Banjo and guitars Proudest accomplishment Bob: My kids. My daughter Carol fills all my meds, gets them all lined up. Don: I pulled a lot of fish out of this lake. Greatest fear Bob: Don’t know of any. Don: A bull. My dad almost got killed by one. True confession Don: I didn’t fight much, but one time two guys were beatin’ on Bob. I beat both of them. I used to go to the tavern and I told people I didn’t come there to fight — I went for the music, I loved the guitars. Bob: Skipping school. Each week, the Banner profiles a person from the community working behind he scenes, whose efforts may not make headlines, but whose dedication makes the Barry County area shine. We’ll provide a quick peek each week at some of the local stars. Do you know someone who should be featured? Send information to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@jadgraphics.com. At last week’s county board meeting, Barry County Commissioners delayed making any decisions over hiring a director for Animal Control due to problems that have plagued the animal shelter for nearly 20 years. Differences over the management of the animal shelter between Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf and county commissioners has come down to a debate on how best to operate the county-owned facility. The county board has shown some interest in hiring a full-time director who would answer directly to the board. Leaf wants to hire an additional staff person under his own administration. A letter distributed to commissioners by Leaf May 15 staked out his position. “Animal Control is just that, Animal Control,” wrote Leaf. “We are a temporary holding facility not a rescue. I would like to see us stay out of the adoption business.” Leaf went on to suggest that Barry County could partner with other shelters in the area and cautioned that the county’s insurance carrier is concerned with the path the new animal shelter advisory board is heading, but he didn’t elaborate over what that meant. His closing comment was especially telling. “I’m also open,” summarized Leaf, “to that maybe the commissioners of the past got it right.” His last observation was correct — but diametrically opposed to what commissioners actually intended. In November 2000, a volunteer group known as the Animal Shelter 2000 Committee spearheaded the planning and funding for a new shelter to replace what one campaign member termed “an eyesore” and “blight on the city.” The shelter committee assumed responsibility for raising half the $300,000 estimated cost, while the county board gave its support for the project by pledging the other $150,000. Both parties agreed that, once the building was constructed, it would be owned, operated and maintained by the county. From the beginning, the Barry County Humane Society and its volunteers were actively involved in the project by showing their dedication to build a better facility with a focus on increasing the adoption rate. After raising $5,000 in 1996 to pay for a licensed kennel contractor to formulate plans for the new shelter, the Humane Society donated an additional $30,000 toward the cost of building a new shelter. The facility was built on land donated by the Viking Corp. and the company’s owner, Richard Groos, who supported both the Animal Shelter 2000 Committee and the Humane Society’s continuing efforts to provide a compassionate resource for lost or unwanted animals. After such a strong start and the construction of a wonderful facility, changing county boards have spent the past 20 years in debate over how to manage the shelter. Since Leaf took over as sheriff and inherited the Animal Control office, he’s made it difficult for volunteers to work with the animals. He caused a controversy two years ago when he went so far as to ban volunteers from the shelter. In hopes of finding a solution, commissioners selected several area resident for an advisory board to oversee the operations and report back with suggestions for its operation. Yet, commissioners and Leaf continue to argue who should be in charge. At last week’s county board meeting, Mary Fisher, president of the Barry County Humane Society, addressed the dispute. “I have no problem with enforcement,” Fisher told county commissioners. “I do What do you have a problem with the way adoption – or the lack thereof – has been handled. I was part of the Animal Shelter 2000 Committee and we strove to get a new building, but I’m disappointed with the [adoption] numbers – we have a nice building, and we have a nicer euthanasia chamber. “The stonewalling by the present management filters down from the very top. I strongly suggest a different path and that you hire a director,” she said. The Humane Society in recent years has found itself in a difficult situation: the sheriff frowns on outside intervention into management of the shelter and wants to reduce any authority an outside group could have on its operation. In contrast, when plans for the new shelter were being formulated, former Barry County Sheriff Steve DeBoer was even willing to allow the Humane Society to have an office in the shelter, to help with adoptions. Now, we are again debating who should manage the shelter and whether volunteers should be allowed to help in any way. In his May 15 letter to county commissioners, Leaf said his department “does animal control, leaving adoptions in the hands of the people who adopt animals.” I guess he was suggesting that private companies specializing in adoptions are better prepared to handle them. Yet, the real issue is whether Leaf is willing to allow local volunteers the ability to find good homes for abandoned animals or just continue to euthanize animals due to his resistance to do adoptions. When county officials recently set up the advisory committee, it appeared they were looking for a way to increase citizen participation in the shelter’s operation. Commissioners should give their full support to the advisory committee in finding a solution where the sheriff and Humane Society can cooperate in the interest of our county’s abandoned animals. The problem hasn’t been that county officials can’t find volunteers willing to help — it’s been the insistence of the sheriff to control the operation with little or no oversight. “A director with two employees is topheavy government,” he maintains. Leaf made it clear in his letter to county commissioners that he wants nothing to do with any changes with the operation. It appears Leaf thinks he can win this war with county officials. I realize that the people elect the sheriff — but the funds to run the department come at the discretion of the county commissioners. Researching for this column, I requested information on how many animals had been euthanized since the beginning of the year. I was told I had to submit a Freedom of Information Act request, which I did. I learned later that the county-appointed animal shelter advisory board had requested information, and they were told they had to submit a FOIA request, as well. I think if the county would hire a director with the ability to work together with the advisory group and the Humane Society, it would foster a more caring environment for the animals. Mahatma Gandhi once said, “The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.” If we believe Gandhi’s comments to be true, then county officials should work with the advisory committee and allow the Humane Society its chance to offer ideas on the best way to handle our abandoned animals. Fred Jacobs, vice president, J-Ad Graphics Inc. think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. Feel free to leave an opinion or comment. Last week’s question: Candidates for local offices had until Tuesday to file their petitions. Many offices have only one candidate and, in Castleton Township, there are no candidates for supervisor. Do you think the sacrifice for public service has become too high? 75% 25% Yes No For this week: On a holiday during which we honor veterans, do you plan to attend a Memorial Day observance? q q Yes No �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 24, 2012 — Page 5 Fracking has ruined forests, streams and drinking water in other states IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV Public input should be regarded To the editor: Memories are short. I must admit it’s hard to recover a record of the history behind the construction of the current Barry County Animal Shelter. The digital reach of Internet search engines doesn’t extend that far back in time. But certainly all of the parties in the current controversies regarding the proper roles of the shelter are old enough to know that a major reason why the current building exists was the concerted efforts of large segments of the citizens of Barry County who wanted to improve conditions of abandoned, lost and feral dogs and cats in our community. A dedicated group, the Animal Shelter 2000 Committee, and a strong supporting effort by the Barry County Humane Society contributed an extraordinary amount of time and raised a substantial amount of the money required for the construction of the shelter from interested citizens. The county commission and administration worked with them, and our tax dollars were necessary to get the job done, but we wouldn’t have the current shelter without the work and funds provided by the larger community. The control of unwanted and uncared for animals is recognized by everyone as a proper function of our local government. And it is a terrible necessity that when the number of these animals or the costs of maintaining them or restoring them to health and suitability to life as a pet are excessive that euthanasia is part of animal control. But the adoption of as many of those animals as possible is more desirable. It is certain that the people of Barry County made sure we have the current animal shelter because of concern for the animals themselves and the desire to see that as many of them as possible find secure and happy homes. And that is certainly true now. The Barry County Commissioners and the sheriff’s department need to realize that. The role of Barry County Animal Control/Shelter Advisory Board apparently still needs to be worked out, but it is a foolish governmental agency that considers public input to be a nuisance or impediment. Dr. Kenneth M. Kornheiser, DVM, Prairieville Township Changes needed at animal shelter To the editor: Charlton Park Day Saturday, May 19, would have been a good day to promote the animals housed at the Barry County Animal Control Shelter. Members of the Barry County Animal Control/Shelter Advisory Board had been planning on that Saturday to take potentially adoptable kittens from the shelter to the park to show off the lovely quality animals that are housed at the facility. This plan was part and parcel of the advisory board education and marketing committee. As well, a photo album was planned to feature the adoptable dogs and adult cats for people to see and if interested to check back the following week at the shelter. The logistics were in place for the event, however, organizers of the kitten event canceled when told by Sheriff Dar Leaf that there were no animals available to take to the park. The shelter Petfinder website was checked, and it listed kittens, cats and dogs. So very sad, this would have been a good day for the animals. It would have been a chance for the kittens from our Barry County Animal Control/Shelter, which is managed by Sheriff Dar Leaf, to get good homes. I’m a Barry County citizen and advisory board member. There is a true need for changes to be made in the operations of the Barry County Animal Control/Shelter and that is why the advisory board was created a year and a half ago. Since the advisory board has been meeting, no improvements have been made at the shelter, and these are recommendations that are voted on and approved by the Barry County Animal Control/Shelter Advisory Board and the Barry County Board of Commissioners. Changes in the Barry County Animal Control/Shelter management need to be made. Kay Doyle, Bellevue Character, courage complement candidate’s experience To the editor: In a recent conversation with the leaders of Baltimore Township, Julie Nakfoor Pratt talked about her work as a private practice attorney. She related how this experience gave her a different perspective of the legal profession. She said she gained a greater appreciation for the challenges faced by the ‘other side’ in criminal litigation. In a later discussion, Julie said,”My practice as a defense attorney has made me a better lawyer, and I will be a better prosecutor because of it.” In 2008, after many years of service in the Barry and Allegan county prosecutor’s office, she left a financially secure position and started her own private law firm. She told me one of the reasons for the move was to be able to spend more time with her kids as they experi- enced their high school years. Although her heart has always been drawn to the prosecutor’s side of the legal profession, she also wanted to understand the issues faced by the defense bar. This career change required a lot of courage, taking into consideration that we were in the middle of the worst economic recession in 70 years. But strength and backbone have always been evident throughout her years of public service as she has addressed the problems of victims’ rights, bullying and child advocacy. Julie Nakfoor Pratt’s strength of character and courage of her convictions are some of the reasons I will vote for her in the Aug. 7 Republican primary. Jack Miner Hastings To the editor: I have been to towns in Pennsylvania that have dealt with this ‘rush’ to explore or extract fuels through horizontal hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, and it’s not pretty. In one town, crime went up, forests were destroyed, some people can’t drink their water (with the companies providing bottled water at the same time claiming nothing is wrong), roads were trashed and most of the ‘jobs’ created by fracking were people flown in from out of state — the planes were packed every time I flew, until just recently when they decided to move to Ohio and now coming soon to Michigan. It just blows my mind why anyone would allow something so potentially damaging anywhere near such an extensive watershed as we have in Barry and Kalamazoo counties. I know there are people who need or want MDOT lifting many work zone restrictions over weekend To help make travel easier, the Michigan Department of Transportation is lifting traffic restrictions on 94 of 132 projects statewide during the Memorial Day holiday weekend. Beginning at 3 p.m. Friday, May 25, and continuing until 6 a.m. Tuesday, May 29, MDOT is suspending road work wherever possible. The M-43 project in Hastings is one of the exceptions; lane restrictions will continue. “Memorial Day weekend begins the busy summer travel season in Michigan,” said State Transportation Director Kirk T. Steudle. “Let’s make sure everyone gets to their destination and home safely. Remember to buckle up, put your cell phone down and be extra cautious in construction zones.” Interactive website helps parents keep teen drivers safe Nearly 30,000 parents around the state are using a free, interactive web resource that provides information and tools to help parents protect their teens while they gain experience driving without adult supervision. The online program www.saferdrivingforteens.org is presented by the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute and the Michigan Department of Community Health through a grant from the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "Prom season and the end of the school year are an exciting time of year for teens, but it is also a time when they are likely to be driving more often and to a larger variety of destinations. The special celebrations and year-end activities offered by many schools and communities create more pressure for teens to drive at night and to give other teens rides,” said Ray Bingham, a research profes- wonder if the affront is gender-based. Julie Nakfoor Pratt was and will again make a great prosecutor. Detective Jeff Pratt is a respected policeman. Both are highly professional people: there will be no conflict in their official duties. They have handled these issues in the past and will in the future. People who serve the public should be commended for their dedication to the public. Let them know we appreciate their efforts. Shirley Barnum, Hastings The Hastings Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Helen Mudry • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 77568109 John Jacobs people who have dealt with fracking on and near their properties and the accidents that have happened: http://earthjustice.org/features/campaigns/f racking-across-the-united-states www.terrygipsonny.com/fracking http://slowdownfracking.wordpress.com/2 012/01/31/fracking-experiences-wetzel/ www.youtube.com/watch?v=EauRA0E 4Hp4&feature=related www.youtube.com/watch?v=aHoAHQEz 5Fk&feature=related, www.youtube.com/watch?v=P6qWR8b jNS8&feature=related, www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEB_Wwe-u BM&feature=related, Angela Bowers, Augusta State News Roundup Spouse’s career shouldn’t be a factor To the editor: I have heard negative comments concerning Julie Nakfoor Pratt, who is running for prosecutor, for having a spouse in law enforcement. In my view, Julie and Jeff’s careers complement each other. Offhand, I can think of other high-profile couples in Barry County who have complementing careers. In the year 2012, we should all be insulted when anyone tries to disqualify a candidate for public office because of their spouse’s career. When the contestant is a woman, I money out there, but not like this. Accidents happen, we still can’t paddle on parts of the Kalamazoo River two years after the Enbridge oil spill. If these fracking fluids get dumped, spilled, leak into our aquifers, streams and lakes, it will be bad. And how many residents of Barry County have well water? Accidents with fracking do happen. Pass the word that our DEQ is not adequate. They keep claiming we have over 12,000 fracking wells up north without incident — true, except these wells are vertical and used the older method that doesn’t require millions of gallons of water and chemicals. Fracking uses horizontal drilling. Pass these websites around - it shows all of the accidents (many recent) from this ‘safe’ procedure. They show a recent fracking in West Virginia — destruction, streams are gone, wells are unusable in Pennsylvania, and sor at UMTRI, as well as the U-M schools of medicine and public health. The website features a parent/teen driving agreement called Checkpoints that helps establish where and when teens can drive without adult supervision and how teens can earn increased driving privileges. Parents can use it now to establish driving privileges and revisit it as their teen gains driving experience. The website also includes information about Michigan’s driving laws for teens, and videos about using the agreement and talking with teens about driving. According to the U-M press release, teens whose parents use the agreement receive fewer tickets and report less risky driving behaviors. Governor signs municipal jail reimbursement bill Legislation allowing local municipal jails to collect from inmates costs associated with their stay was signed into law by Gov. Snyder May 16, said sponsor State Sen. Rick Jones. County jails can force inmates to reimburse them for costs associated with their stay. However, before Jones’ measure was signed into law, a municipal jail or lock-up that typically holds a prisoner for one to three days could not recoup any costs. “If counties can seek reimbursement for the costs associated with housing inmates, then local municipalities should be able to, as well” said Jones R-Grand Ledge. “Local municipalities should have the same tools as counties in order to help them cover their corrections costs. This measure gives them that ability.” Proposals sought for development of state fairgrounds The State of Michigan Land Bank Fast Track Authority Board of Directors has approved and issued a request for proposal for the development of the former Michigan State Fairgrounds. It is available online at www.michigan.gov/landbank. “This represents another in a series of positive moves forward for Detroit,” said Gov. Rick Snyder. “The state is committed to working cooperatively to rehabilitate this unused property into a robust economic driver for the city, its residents and the region.” The three-step RFP process gives prospective developers approximately 60 days to submit their proposals for review by the MLB Board of Directors. The board will receive input from a five-member advisory committee consisting of Detroit community leaders who were appointed by Gov. Snyder May 15. The first step of the RFP will remain anonymous, with the MLB board focusing on the feasibility and best use of the 160-acre property. The RFP is open ended, allowing for a wide assortment of proposals with the exception of no casinos, racetracks, prisons or railroad freight yards. The governor signed legislation April 9 allowing the transfer of the former Michigan State Fairgrounds to the State of Michigan Land Bank Fast Track Authority to return the land to productive use. HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, May 24 — So Many Books ... Book Club discusses Biting the Moon by Martha Grimes; Movie Memories presents the little gem “The Affairs of Annabelle,” 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, May 25 — preschool story time enjoys the stories of Cynthia Rylant, 10:30 to 11 a.m. Monday, May 28 — library closed for Memorial Day. Tuesday, May 29 — toddler story time enjoys stories about summer, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30; open chess club, 6 to 8; genealogy club, 6 to 8 p.m. Call the Hastings Public Library for more information, 269-945-4263. �Page 6 — Thursday, May 24, 2012 — The Hastings Banner GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. Worship Together… Area Obituaries Janet M. Frederickson Denise Lynn Wellington Jacqueline J. “Jackie” Dunlop 77567931 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. CHURCH OF THE LIVING GOD A full gospel church. 1240 W. State Rd., Hastings. Pastor Doug Davis. 269-948-9740. Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study 6 p.m. Sunday School and Youth Group for all ages. Come and worship the Lord with us! . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. ORANGEVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH 6921 Marsh Rd., 2 miles south of Gun Lake, Plainwell. Phone 269664-4377. OrangevilleBaptist.org. Pastors Dan Bowman and Adam Parmenter. Sundays - 9:45--10:45 a.m. “Dealing With Your Past” March through May. March 25 - 6 p.m. “Messiah in the Passover’ Seder Meal. March 31 - 7 p.m. Orangeville Cafe. April 8 - 7:30 & 11 a.m. Easter Celebration. April 22-27 - Evangelist Will Rice. Children, teen and adult Sunday School classes; 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Worship; 5:30 p.m. Junior and Senior High Word of Life Clubs. Tuesday - 9 a.m. Men’s Prayer and Bible Study. Wednesday - 6:30 p.m. Pre-school through 6th grade Word of Life Gophers & Olympians. Prayer & Bible Study - 7 p.m. 6 p.m. Teen Word of Life. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Rev. Ryan Wieland. Sundays - 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Service; Sunday School and Nursery available during both services (Summer Schedule - Adult Sunday School: 9 a.m., Worship & Children’s Programs 10 a.m.) Youth Group, Covenant Prayer, Choir, Chimes, Praise Band, Quilting Group, Community Breakfasts and more! Call the church office at (269) 721-8077 (M/W/F 9 a.m.-12 p.m.), e-mail office@mei.net or visit www.countrychapelumc.org <http://www.countrychapelumc.org/> for more information SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 . LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. HASTINGS REFORMED CHURCH “A Historic Reformed Community.” Sunday morning services begin at 10 a.m. Meeting at the Barry County Commission on Aging building, 320 W. Woodlawn Ave., Hastings. Pastor: Peter Adams. 616-690-8609 padams@juno.com. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 9:15 Contemporary Worship, 10:30 a.m. Refreshments, 11 a.m. Traditional Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Youth Pastor, Eric Gillespie. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. for children and youth, and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Junior & Senior High Youth Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Mid-Week Pioneers and adult classes return in September. Thursday: Senior Adult Bible Study at 10 a.m. and lunch at Wendy’s, 11:30 a.m. Vacation Bible School: Wed. & Thurs., July 25 & 26, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service; 6 p.m. Youth Group; 6 p.m. Adult Small Group. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian. blogspot.com. Thursday - 6:30 p.m. Choir Rehearsal. Friday - 9 a.m. Pickleball; 9 a.m. Golfer’s Group Meets’ 6 p.m. Menders. Saturday 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday - 4 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Tuesday - 7 p.m. Church Softball Practice. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball; 6:30 p.m. Financial Peace University. Fiberglass Products 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 Raymond B. Kenyon GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Sunday, May 27 - Worship at 8 and 10:45 a.m. Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. May 27 - Men’s AA at 7 p.m. May 30 - Wordwatchers Bible Study at 10 a.m. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 9452645, fax 269-945-2698. Pastor Amy Luckey. http://www.discover-grace.org This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Lauer Family Funeral Homes DELTON, MI - Janet M. Frederickson, of Delton, passed away May 22, 2012. Janet was born August 28, 1941, in Battle Creek, the daughter of Manson and Elsie (Mayo) Stanton. A former employee of the Delton Shell for several years, Janet was also very active in the Delton Athletic Boosters. She enjoyed playing bingo, crocheting and playing dice. Janet was residing at Cornett's Country Care Home, where she enjoyed spending time with her second family. On September 6, 1959, Janet married Barry Frederickson, and he preceded her in death on April 19, 2004. Janet is survived by daughters, Deborah (David) Rector, of Arizona, Sharon (Kevin) Keck, of Plainwell, and Vicki (Tim) Garrett, of Delton; a brother, Harold (Eileen) Stanton of Bellevue; grandchildren, Nicholas (Renda) Keck, and Naomi (David) Williams; great grandchildren, Aaron, Ruby, and Isaac Keck; and several nieces and nephews. Janet was also preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Maynard Stanton, and a sister, Joyce Smith. A graveside service will be conducted, Saturday, May 26, 2012, 11 a.m. at Bedford Cemetery, with Pastor Michael Fields, officiating. Memorial contributions to the Delton Lions Club will be appreciated. Please visit www.williams-goresfuneral.com to view Janet's online guest book. 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 ASHEVILLE, NC – Raymond Burdette Kenyon, age 86, passed away Friday, May 18, 2012 at Mission Hospital in Asheville, NC. Ray was born in Woodland Township of Barry County in Michigan on June 3, 1925 to the late Ernest Adelbert Kenyon and Ina Mae Will Kenyon. He was also preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Shirley Granger Kenyon. Ray came from a large family of four brothers and three sisters. He graduated from Hastings High School in Michigan, class of 1943, and was class president. He then attended and graduated from the University of Michigan. Ray was a U.S. Army veteran, serving in Europe in 1944 and 1945. In the 1960s, he was a proud member of the Garden City School Board. Ray worked for Ford Motor Company from 1962 to 1985 in Dealer Development and was a member of Lake Lure Fairfield Chapel in Lake Lure. Ray is survived by his three children; a son, Frederick Kenyon; two daughters, Pavanne Kenyon Lapham and Amy Kenyon; two sisters, Lois Finkbeiner and Jean Jowett; five grandchildren; four great grandchildren and Margy Herrmann, his close companion for seven years, and her three daughters. A memorial service was held on Tuesday, May 22, 2012 at Lake Lure Fairfield Mountains Chapel, 1384 Buffalo Creek Road, Lake Lure, NC 28746 with Reverend Everette Chapman officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to CarePartners Hospice in Asheville, P.O. Box 25338, Asheville, NC 28813. Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian, Arden, NC is assisting the family and the memorial register is available online at www.grocefuneralhome.com. YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP, MI Denise Lynn Wellington, age 49, of Yankee Springs Township, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, May 20, 2012 at her Yankee Springs home. Denise was born in Hastings on March 9, 1963, daughter of Michael J. and Dorothy M. (Smith) Janose. She was raised in the Hastings/Middleville area and attended local schools, graduating from Thornapple Kellogg High School in 1981. Denise was employed at Cascade Engineering for several years where she spent time working in the shop as well as the office. Denise enjoyed, painting, sewing, and doing crafts, but most of all spending time in her many gardens. Her favorite quotes are "Happiness is not getting what you want, but wanting what you have"; and “Obstacles are what you see when you take your eye off the goal”. Denise is survived by her son, Tim Janose; two daughters Amber (Jesse) Buttleman, and Kimberly Wellington; parents, Michael and Dorothy Janose; grandmother, Allie Mae Smith; brother, Ron (Sandra) Janose; sister, Pam Tolan; and nephew, Travis Tolan; granddaughter, Naiya Mae Buttleman and her loving dog and best friend, Pepe. She is also survived by numerous friends and extended family. She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Mack and Dorothy Janose; maternal grandfather, Marion Smith; her first love (Tim's father) Ed Wilkes; and her former husband (Amber and Kimberly’s father) Sam Wellington. Funeral services will be held at the Daniels Funeral Home, Nashville, at 4 p.m. on Thursday, May 24, 2012. The family will receive visitors on Thursday, May 24 from 2-4 p.m. at the Daniels Funeral Home in Nashville,. Memorial contributions can be made to the family of Denise Wellington. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Daniels Funeral Home in Nashville. Please visit our website at www.danielsfuneralhome.net for further details. PINE LAKE, MI - Jacqueline J. ‘Jackie’ Dunlop, age 86, of Pine Lake, passed away Tuesday, May 1, 2012 in Kalamazoo, on her 67th wedding anniversary. Mrs. Dunlop was born May 14, 1925 in Plainwell to Albert and Cleo (Hill) Johnson and grew up the daughter of a blacksmith. While in high school, both of Jackie’s parents died, and her senior year she worked a full shift from 3 to 11 p.m. at Plainwell Paper Co. On Tuesday May 1, 1945 at the Plainwell Baptist Church she married Phillip Dunlop and they enjoyed 67 years of marriage. Together they owned and operated Pine Lake Orchards and Dunlop Orchard Mobile Home Park. After their retirement they enjoyed traveling in their motorhome. Until she was well over 80 years old, Jackie canned 100 quarts of peaches every year and enjoyed giving away many of those peaches. In her leisure time she enjoyed casting and painting plaster of Paris figurines, reupholstering, gardening and cooking. For many years she was a faithful blood donor. Jackie loved her family and was a wonderful, nursing, nurturing mother and grandmother and hard worker, sewing clothing for her daughters. She was a great picnic host and made wonderful apple strudel. Jackie attended the Northeastern Baptist Church in Kalamazoo. Surviving in addition to her husband, Phillip, are three daughters, Patricia Flanders of Grand Rapids, Phyllis (Gary) Rogers of Otsego and Rose (Jerry) Robart of Plainwell; seven grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren with twin great-grandchildren due soon; a sister, Charlene Bailey of Plainwell; a sister-in-law, Marjorie Dunlop of Florida; many extended family members and close friends. She was preceded in death by two sons-inlaw, Steven Spencer and Verl Flanders; three sisters, Barbara Ramseyer, Betty Morefield and Charlotte Johnson; and her mother-inlaw and father-in-law, Earle and Rosa Dunlop, whom she regarded as her own parents. Jackie’s family received friends on Friday at the Northeastern Baptist Church, 6536 East G Ave., Kalamazoo, where funeral services were held, Pastor Bishop officiating. Private family burial will be held later at Prairieville Cemetery. Contributions in memory of Jackie may be made to the Kalamazoo Gospel Mission or the Otsego Christian Academy. Messages of condolence for her family may be posted at www.WinkelFuneralHome.com. Gordon Barlow to celebrate 80th birthday Gordon Barlow will be celebrating his 80th Birthday May 29th Gordon is married to Jane (Brownell) Barlow. They have three children, Deb (Tim) Wisniewski, Diane (John) Haines, David (Debbie) Barlow. Gordon and Jane have seven grandchildren, Sarah, Tyler, Michelle, Ashley, Brandon, Alex and Dylan; one great grandchild, Molly Jade. Gordon owned and operated Barlow Auction and Real-estate. Gordon will be celebrating his birthday with his family. Birthday wishes can be sent too 817 West Green Street in Hastings. �Social News Virginia Rose Goodson HASTINGS, MI - Virginia Rose Goodson, age 80, of Hastings passed away, Thursday May 17, 2012 at MagnumCare in Hastings. She was born December 16, 1931 in Hastings, the daughter of Floyd and Marie (Jacobs) Thomas. Virginia attended Hastings High School, graduating in 1949. She married Melvin Ray Goodson on May 31, 1952. Virginia was a member of the St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church. She worked at Hastings City Bank for seven years. Virginia enjoyed reading, crossword puzzles and for many years took care of family members in need. She was preceded in death by her parents; three sisters, Mary Louise Mrozinski, Betty Moore and Patricia Allison and three brothers: Dale Thomas, Joseph Thomas and Richard Thomas. Virginia is survived by her husband, Melvin Goodson of Hastings; son, Steven T. Goodson of Hastings; two grandsons: Dustin Goodson of Bellevue and Darren Goodson of West Palm Beach, FL; three great grandsons, Nolan, Jeremiah and Isaiah, along with several nieces and nephews. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Rose of Lima Church, 805 S. Jefferson St., Hastings, MI 49058. A memorial mass was held Monday, May 21, 2012. Fr. Richard Altine, celebrant. Interment at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Hastings. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message for the family. Helen Irene Rendon SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN Serving wounded warriors and the survivors of fallen heroes by Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist It’s an American tradition to pay tribute to the men and women of the Armed Forces each Memorial Day — especially honoring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice while serving our country. If you are a military service member who needs to apply for disability benefits, it is important to know that you will receive expedited processing. The Social Security Administration’s wounded warriors’ initiative is for military service members who became disabled while on active duty on or after Oct. 1, 2001, regardless of where the disability occurred. Depending on the situation, some family members of military personnel, including dependent children and, in some cases, spouses, may be able to receive benefits. Learn more about it at www.socialsecurity.gov/woundedwarriors. Memorial Day also is a good time to Marriage Licenses Jordan Douglas Petersen, Freeport and Angela Lynn Gunter, Davison. Lars Karl Gustafson, Murfreesboro, TN and Rachelle Nicole Buer, Middleville. Henry Coleman Cummings, Nashville and Margaret Ann Mitchell, Nashville. Randy Eugene Wells, Hastings and Kristin Anne Bies, Hastings. Lester E. Mullet, Nashville and Viola R. Bender, Nashville. Matthew Alden Arrand, Wyoming and Dawn Marie Freda, Middleville. Dustin Ray Colegate, Delton and Amanda Kristine Worm, Portage. Gerald Walter Lieberman, Nashville and Peggy Ann Frizzell, Nashville. Mitchell Edward Combs, Middleville and Whitley Ann Bremer, Middleville. Brian Michael Springer, Delton and Megan Renee Goostrey, Kalamazoo. Billy G. Clark, Hastings and Rhonda Lee Geething, Hastings. Trent Matthew Green, Battle Creek and Logan Rae Jones, Delton. The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 24, 2012 — Page 7 remind families of fallen military heroes that we may be able to pay Social Security survivors benefits. If the person you depended on for income has passed away, you should apply for survivors benefits. Learn more about Social Security survivors benefits at www.socialsecurity.gov/pgm/survivors.htm. The men and women of the Armed Forces serve us each and every day. At Social Security, we’re here to serve them, too. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. Doreen Payne will celebrate 85th birthday Doreen Payne will be celebrating her 85th birthday with her family on May 25, 2012. A card shower would be appreciated in her honor and may be sent to 3700 Tillotson Lake Rd., Hastings, MI 49058. Newborn Babies Lillian Grace, born at Pennock Hospital on May 3, 2012 at 3:04 a.m. to Taylor Clark and Douglas Smith of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 4 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Oden Paul, born at Pennock Hospital on May 11, 2012 at 8:23 a.m. to Timothy Brownell Jr. and Megan Calabrese of Hastings. Weighing 6 lbs. 6 ozs. and 19 3/4 inches long. ***** Willow Mae, born at Pennock Hospital on May 11, 2012 at 12:38 a.m. to Aaron Holton and Nicole Craven of Middleville. Weighing 6 lbs. 12 ozs. and 18 inches long. ***** Easton Dale, born at Pennock Hospital at 12:38 p.m. to Stephanie and James Faist of Middleville. Weighing 8 lbs. 5 ozs. and 21 inches long. ***** Ezekiel Thomas, born at Pennock Hospital on May 9, 2012 at 3:32 p.m. to Kaleb and Sarah Laws of Hastings. Weighing 8 lbs. 6 ozs. and 21 inches long. ***** Kacen Macksen, born at Pennock Hospital on May 8, 2012 at 8:34 a.m. to Jennie Wyart and Dustin Hillard of Nashville. Weighing 10 lbs. 12 ozs. and 22 inches long. ***** Jase Ryan, born at Pennock Hospital on May 8, 2012 at 8:28 p.m. to Josh and Kallie Carter of Lake Odessa. Weighing 8 lbs. 9 ozs. and 19.5 inches long. ***** Nyla Stanton to celebrate 90th birthday Nyla Stanton will celebrate her 90th birthday on May 29th. Cards may be sent to: 512C Woodlawn Avenue, Hastings, MI 49058. Richard & Vergie Winkler 35th wedding anniversary Richard and Vergie Winkler of Woodland, Mich. will observe their 35th wedding anniversary on June 1, 2012. The couple has been blessed with their children, stepchildren and spouses. Larry and Deb Winkler of Hastings, Mich., Roger and Sue Winkler of Lake Odessa, Mich., Mike and Jane Winkler of Hamilton, Mich. Randy and Maratha Welshans of Westminster, Calif., Roger and Laurie of Martin, Ga., Ronda Welshans of Eaton Rapids, Mich. They have 10 grandchildren, eight greatgrandchildren and five step-grandchildren. GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. Reynolds to celebrate 50th wedding anniversary Bob and Vivian (McCur-dy) Reynolds are celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary. An open house in their honor will be on June 2, 2012 at the Kilpatrick UB Church, 10005 E. Barnum Road, Woodland, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. (No gifts, please.) The Reynolds have one daughter, Debbie (Craig) Potter; four grandchildren, Alicia, Matthew (Kara), David, and Brandon; and two great-grandchildren. Bob retired from SOS Office Supply in Grand Rapids and Vivian retired from Consumers Energy. Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, P.C. • Kenneth S. Merriman, M.D. • Eric S. Leep, D.O. • James L. Horton, Jr., D.O. • David J. Heeringa, D.O. • Maria Benit, PA-C • Christopher Born, PA-C Providing Excellence. In the Art of Total Orthopedic Care Physical Medicine and Pain Management Accessible. Comprehensive. From left to right: James L. Horton, Jr., D.O., Orthopedic Surgeon; David J. Heeringa, D.O., Orthopedic Surgeon; Eric S. Leep, D.O., Physical Medicine; Kenneth S. Merriman, M.D., Orthopedic Surgeon. For more information on Hastings Orthopedic Clinic or to learn about all of our services, please visit us online at www.hoc-mi.com, scan our QR code below with your mobile device, or contact us directly at (269) 945-9520. 77568095 FREEPORT, MI - Helen Irene Rendon, of Freeport, was called home to glory on Sunday, May 20, 2012 in Grand Rapids. Helen was born July 2, 1928 to Mary Alice (Clinton) and Dircie Fay Moore in Hastings. Helen was never a robust child. She was blessed, though, with an indomitable spirit and a natural talent for nurturing plants and children. As a teenager, Helen happily became a “second mother” to her much younger brother and sister, a role she continued even after her marriage to Rigoberto Rendon in 1947. Helen and Rigo made their home in Freeport, where they raised four children of their own, despite Helen’s fragile health. Throughout the 60 years of their marriage, the little house in Freeport welcomed several children that Helen mothered in one way or another. Whether nieces and nephews or simply in need of a mother’s love, they all found comfort and solace in the Rendon home, where Helen’s homemade pies were legendary and quiet acceptance was the rule. Helen is survived by her children, Bonnie Toogood of Coopersville, Bruce (Daire) Rendon of Lake City, Brenda Michael of Grand Rapids, Marcia (Randy) Clark of Freeport; eight grandchildren, and 10 greatgrandchildren. She leaves a sister, Ruth Ann Reigler; several nieces and nephews here in Michigan; a sister-in-law and three brothersin-law in Texas. Helen was preceded in death by her husband Rigoberto; her brother, James Gonzales; and an infant brother, Harold Moore. Funeral services were held Wednesday, May 23, 2012, at the Beeler-Gores Funeral Home in Middleville with interment at the Freeport cemetery. Memorial contributions can be made to the American Lung Association or to the American Cancer Society. Please visit www.beeler-goresfuneral.com to visit Helen's online guest book. �Page 8 — Thursday, May 24, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa by Elaine Garlock This weekend has a three-day holiday marked with other events of a patriotic nature. Friday evening brings an annual event at the Depot Museum with announcement of the veteran of the year by the local historical society. The committee will announce its selection. This event usually draws more than 50 people. There will be an extensive display of items from each of this nation’s war including uniforms from each branch of the service. Refreshments will be served. Saturday hours will be 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday hours continue with 2 to 5p.m. and Monday has open hours of noon to 5 p.m. In addition, Saturday afternoon will include a presentation of medals earned by local farmer Stanton Strickland at 2 p.m. with State Sen. Judy Emmons making the presentation. Mr. Strickland served in th 137th Infantry Division in California, Alabama, in the mountains of Tennessee, in North Carolina where the intense training continued. His division entered France a week after D-Day where they saw the carnage of the earlier week. At St. Lo July 25, they and others made their breakthrough where the Germans had their heaviest defenses. From there they spread out over France. Memorial Day services will be held at Lakeside Cemetery near the three flags on the east side of Cemetery Road. The Veterans of Foreign Wars will be in charge. One will note the number of new markers since a year ago. Burials now are east beyond the last trees. Water lines have been installed farther east than the original supply of water taps done in the 1980s. The Lake Odessa Garden Club had a plant exchange May 19, where anyone could exchange one plant for another or take home Financial FOCUS a new item for a donation. A wide variety of plants were available from the gardens of many club members. On Sunday Central UM church recognized its graduating seniors. Also, the education committee recognized all teachers and youth leaders for the past year. The coffee hour which followed recognized both groups, and refreshments were served which included a decorated cake, fruit and more. Each graduate received a gift book, and the teachers received potted plants. Bill Mouser of Elk Rapids was in town for the visitation and funeral of his aunt Leonore Peirce. Tuesday’s business section of the Lansing State Journal had an article about the closing of Carl’s Supermarket in Potterville. This store bears the same name but has a different owner than the store of similar name in Lake Odessa. The Potterville store had been in operation for 82 years. It is owned by the Rita Joseph Trust. Other members of the Joseph family own the Lake Odessa store. Rita Joseph was the daughter of the late Clara French of Lake Odessa. The original owner was Dennis Carl, whose family moved to the Potterville area in 1874. The store opened in 1930 as a dairy shop selling milk and cheese, but within a year was also offering groceries. Beauty bushes are at their best this week. A fine specimen is to be seen south of Union Bank’s parking lot on the property of Design Team. Others are on Woodland Road at the Jeff Engle property and also at the Tom Allen property on the corner of Brown Road. With another on the east side of Johnston Street. Beautiful flowers also surround St. Edward Church and in Janie’s Garden of Love between the rectory and the family center. Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of EDWARD JONES 529 plan can help with college funding and estate-planning considerations Now that another school year is drawing to a close, your young children are a step closer to the day when they’ll be heading off to college. Of course, as you’re probably aware, higher education doesn’t come cheap — and the costs seem to continuously climb. You can help your children — or even your grandchildren — meet these expenses by investing in a 529 plan. And this college savings vehicle offers estate-planning benefits. As a college funding vehicle, a 529 plan offers some significant benefits. When you contribute to a 529 plan, your earnings accumulate tax free, provided they are used for qualified higher education expenses. (Keep in mind, though, that 529 plan distributions not used for qualified expenses may be subject to federal and state income tax and a 10% IRS penalty.) Furthermore, your 529 plan contributions may be deductible from your state taxes. However, 529 plans vary, so be sure to check with your tax advisor. And the lifetime contribution limits for 529 plans are quite generous; while these limits vary by state, many plans allow contributions well in excess of $200,000. Plus, a 529 plan is flexible: If the child, grandchild or other beneficiary decides against college, you can transfer the unused funds to someone else, tax and penalty free. Now, let’s turn to a 529 plan’s estate-planning benefits. If you think that you may need to reduce the size of your taxable estate, and you also want to create a legacy you may be able to enjoy during your lifetime, you may find that the 529 plan offers a solution for you. When you establish and contribute to a 529 plan, the assets leave your estate — but they don’t leave your control. If your named beneficiary decides against college and you don’t have another family member to whom you can transfer the account — or if you simply change your mind about funding the 529 plan — you can get your money back at any time, although, as mentioned above, you’ll have to pay taxes, and possibly a 10% IRS penalty, on the earnings. Your contributions to a 529 plan also qualify for the $13,000 annual gift tax exclusion, so you can give large amounts each year without incurring the gift tax. In the investment world, you can find many vehicles that can help you make progress toward one goal. But it’s far less common to find something that may give you a boost toward two. And when the two goals are helping a child or grandchild go to college and lowering the value of your taxable estate — while still maintaining control of your assets — you’ve got an investment worth considering. So consult with your tax and financial advisors to determine if a 529 plan is right for you. And if it is, think about taking action soon, because the more years you can contribute to a 529 plan, the better the outlook for both your future student and your estate plans. Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors are not estate planners and cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your estate-planning attorney or qualified tax advisor regarding your situation. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 31.76 +.01 AT&T 33.54 +.19 BP PLC 37.85 -.33 CMS Energy Corp 23.05 +.54 Coca-Cola Co 74.19 -2.38 Eaton 42.67 -1.42 Family Dollar Stores 64.69 -1.74 Fifth Third Bancorp 13.45 -.13 Flowserve CP 107.17 -1.66 Ford Motor Co. 10.19 +.04 General Mills 38.58 -1.00 General Motors 21.50 +.08 Intel Corp. 26.03 -.85 Kellogg Co. 50.40 -.58 McDonald’s Corp 91.34 +.33 Pfizer Inc. 22.37 +.07 Ralcorp 69.42 -1.48 Sears Holding 56.76 +3.85 Spartan Motors 4.12 -.43 Spartan Stores 17.47 -.32 Stryker 51.72 -.27 TCF Financial 11.72 -.01 Walmart Stores 63.73 +4.38 Gold $1568.13 +$25.13 Silver $28.19 +$.49 Dow Jones Average 12,503 -129 Volume on NYSE 794M -20M ® The World Vision Car Wash BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY DELTON PUBLIC LIBRARY — Saturday, May 26th — 07599909 Noon to 4:00 p.m. by Gerald Stein Proceeds benefit World Vision NORTH www.worldvision.org N: A 5 M: K Q 7 L: A 9 4 K: K Q 10 6 2 WEST 77564841 N: Q J 9 7 6 2 M: 10 9 L: J 10 8 K: 9 4 A U C T I O N E E R N: 10 3 M: A J 6 5 3 2 L:Q 5 K: A 8 5 Dealer: South . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hastings 945-5016 VINCENT VERDUIN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Assisting Auctioneer Vulnerable: Both 06781479 ✯ LARGE AUCTION ✯ SATURDAY, MAY 26 AT 10:00AM LOCATION: From Hastings, take M-37 south 1 mile to M-79, east 2 miles to Barry County Christian School (2999 McKeown Rd.). (Inside air/heating). For pictures go to www.auctionzip.com #23371. This is our annual Holiday Consignment Auction. Due to early ad deadline, this is a very partial listing. Craftsman 44” riding lawn mower; Robi mini rototiller; Campbell Hausfield air compressor; Craftsman garage door opener; Bakers scaffold; Deer Hunters 28’ trailer; several estates consigned. Many antiques and collectibles! Tools & more! A large all day auction! Expect many surprises! Kendall Tobias, Auctioneer 1-269-945-5016 RN/LPN Private Duty Immediate Openings Nashville, Marshall, Springport, Jackson Various Shifts Available Trach and Vent Experience Preferred Must have reliable transportation 77568037 MONDAY, MAY 28TH AT 10:00AM 77568018 LOCATION: From Hastings, take M-37 south 6 miles to Sager Rd., west 1 mile to 344 W. Sager Rd. For pictures go to www.auctionzip.com #23371. TRACTOR: John Deere 4310 Hydrostatic w/1,110 hrs., cruise control, 4 wheel drive - MUST SEE! FARM EQUIPMENT: John Deere 420 loader; John Deere 47 backhoe attachment w/2’ bucket; 2 bale spears (1 is 4’ Frontier); King Kutter 6’ rototiller attachment; King Kutter 72” rear blade; Sitrex 3 pt. 6’ finish mower; Cattle - five open large brood cows ready to breed to your own bull; FARM ITEMS: Cow stanchions; pig fence; chain link fence & dog kennel; horse tank; gate; barb wire AND MORE! HAND GUNS: Ruger 44 Black Hawk; Ruger old Army 44 black power; Ruger 22 - 10 shot; Colt 38 Special Police Positive. The sale of guns will be supervised by law enforcement. Valid purchase permit or valid CPL. Also, NO out of state purchase of hand guns! LONG GUNS: Winchester Model 6722 cal. single shot; Mossburg/Wards 22 cal.; SKS 7.62-39mm sporterized stock w/bipod; Remington 3006-1903 Al w/Weaver 6 power scope; 3040 Krag 1898; Remington .35 Whelen w/Tasco 3/9 scope; Steyr .338 - 1961 w/Weaver 4 power; Steyr .22250 Mod. L w/Universal 3/9 scope; Springfield 45-70 Mod 1878 trap door; Stoeger 12 ga Coach gun; Western Arms 12 ga double w/single trigger; Riverside Arms 16 ga. single barrel; JC Higgins 102.25 16 ga. pump; Remington Model 11-12 ga. auto; Remington 1903 12 ga. pump; Mossberg 352 KB 22 auto; Marlin Mod 70-22 auto; gun w/no bolt Mossburg 7mm; Thompson Center 54 cal. w/Simons 3/9 scope; Intercontinental Kentuckian 44 cal; H&R Huntsman 58 cal. muzzle loader; Camo Big Cat. 177 Cal. w/ 4x32 scope; ammunition; shotgun shell reloader; wood ammo box; holsters; Barnet crossbow w/scope; bow & arrows; arrowheads; traps; tents; camping items; 17’ fiberglass canoe; aluminum boat; 2 outboard motors; lawn mower; rototiller; fishing items inc. Heddon #20 bamboo rod; rubber frog lure with wood head; many reels; tackle box AND MUCH MORE! ✯ MEMORIAL DAY AUCTION ✯ N: K 8 4 M: 8 4 L: K 7 6 3 2 K: J 7 3 SOUTH: i ng Auc ti on s m o —AUCTIONEERS— C KENDALL TOBIAS TH EAST Please Send Resume to: recruiter@optimalstaffing.com N Lead: QN North East K 2K 4NT 6M Pass Pass Pass South M 1M M 2M M 5M Pass West Pass Pass Pass Pass Today’s column features a hand that came up recently in a nearby duplicate bridge tournament where the same hand was played 11 times at 11 different tables. Of the 11 contracts bid and played, only four reached the small slam contract. The seven other pairs reached game in hearts, but they missed the slam opportunity. What happened to those teams? Why did they not reach the slam hand? South opened the bidding with a solid six-card heart suit, and another ace in the club suit. North has the big hand on this deal, and he is the captain of the team. He will place the contract, right or wrong, at what he feels is the appropriate level. That is how the game of bridge is played: partnership agreements mean everything. North has two options on his first bid: he can go slowly, bidding two clubs informing his partner that he has at least ten points and a good five-card club suit. He plans to bid again as this is a forcing bid, and he is an un-passed hand. He expects his partner to continue the bidding. His second option on his first bid is to make a strong jump shift bid of three clubs, informing his partner that he has 17-19 points, and he is thinking of a slam hand. The first option gives South a chance to rebid his hearts, informing North that he has six hearts and a minimum hand. Not much more than an opening hand is his message to his partner. The second option opens his eyes a bit as he knows that the partnership could be looking at a slam opportunity. However, he is not the Captain of the team, but only the opener. It is up to the Captain to place the contract. North’s second bid uses the Blackwood Convention to ask for aces in his partner’s hand. He is, indeed, taking the captaincy role to heart. South duly responds with five hearts, informing his partner that he has two aces, the two that North does not have. It now comes down to the final decision for North: to go or not to go to six hearts. Four of the eleven teams found the right bid by plunking down the six hearts card from their bidding boxes, and South played the hand at six hearts. The results were in shortly when South took all thirteen tricks on the opening lead of the Queen of spades. Taking the ace of spades, drawing two rounds of trump, and running all the clubs, discarding the diamond and spade losers, and cashing the ace of diamonds makes seven hearts all day long. In fact, on this hand, not only is seven hearts a good contract, but NorthSouth can make seven no trump and seven clubs with the same cards. Ironically, they could only make one spade and two diamonds if those suits were trump. The final thought about this hand is this: when in doubt, bid it! Seven teams played it safe at four hearts and made seven. Four teams bid the slam and took the top boards, taking all thirteen tricks and claiming the best hand of the afternoon. Bridge is not a game for the faint-hearted. It is a competition, and those who linger on the sidelines are lost to those who bid and take their chances. Go ahead and bid! You may go down, but at least you will have given it a good shot! ***** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 24, 2012 — Page 9 PROUD OF THE FILLY – One of the objectives Mr. and Mrs. Donald J. Dowsett, Route 1, Nashville, had when they moved from Detroit and purchased the former Herbert Wilcox farm near Barryville in December of 1945 was to get a horse for their daughter, Nancy. The horse, Sara Lou, purchased from Upjohn farm when only 6 months old, was photographed by Leo Barth Saturday with Jim Dowsett and his dad. The Dowsett’s 100-acre farm was the 13th to be pictured in the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz. This is the eighth part of a series reprinting the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz promotion that ran in the Banner 60 years ago. An unidentified aerial photo of an area farm was pictured in the Banner each week, from Jan. 24 to July 17, 1952, and the owners of the mystery farms were featured in the paper the following week. The contest was sponsored by the Banner and 35 area merchants (who were listed in the April 12 edition of the Banner). ***** Hastings Banner, April 17, 1952 Lucky Farmers enjoy living in rural area Leaving a beautiful home in a metropolitan area to settle down to life on a Barry County farm was one of the biggest decisions Mr. and Mrs. Donald J. Dowsett, Route 1, Nashville, probably made since they decided to get married in 1925. And they’ve been very happy about both. “Fed up” with the demands of living in the Detroit area, where they had a new home between the airport and Grosse Point, the Dowsetts during World War II decided to try life in the country, and in December of 1945 they purchased the former Herbert Wilcox farm off M-79 south of the Barryville church. The transition wasn’t easy, but all enjoy living on the farm, although they haven’t accomplished all their objectives. To help persuade the rest of the family to his way of thinking. Mr. Dowsett promised to get a “jalopy” for John, bikes for Jim and Mary Jane, a horse for Nancy Anne and a station wagon for Emilie – Mrs. Dowsett. The station wagon still is on the list – but when it came to financing equipment and other new farm requirements something had to wait, and it was mother’s station wagon. Jim and Mary Jane got their bikes, John – now a student at Central Michigan College – his car, and Nancy got her horse. The chestnut filly, of which the entire family is proud and which Jim now claims, was purchased from the Upjohn farms. The filly, Sara Lou, is registered in the halfbred book and was sired by Stormscud. Stormscud is from Hard Tack and Blustery. Hard Tack is from Man O War and Sea Biscuit and Blustery is from Sun Briar and Windy Way. The horse is gentle and “can run.” Mr. Dowsett was born in Marshall the son of Mr. and Mrs. E. J. Dowsett, now of Lansing, and was raised in Battle Creek. He moved to Flint in 1919 and was graduated from Flint Central. While at Flint, a roommate of his was Leland Lamb,[who later became] Hastings superintendent of schools. At a Demoley conclave in Grand Rapids in 1924, he met Miss Emilie Smith, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Smith, formerly of Grand Rapids who now live at Spring Lake. A romance developed and on Nov. 7, 1925, they were married. The Dowsetts first lived in Flint where he worked for General Motors. In 1939 they moved to Detroit where he worked for the Detroit transmission division of EMC. In 1943 he went to work in the Packard plant as a supervisor in the gear production department. After purchasing the farm here, Dowsett worked for the E. W. Bliss plant, then went with Standard Stamping at Nashville and now is a supervisor in the aircraft division of Eaton Mfg. company in Battle Creek. The Dowsetts are understandably proud of their children. John is majoring in psychology at Central Michigan and expects to spend two years in the Marines after graduation. He is receiving Marine training while at Mt. Pleasant. Nancy is a senior at Nashville High, and Jim is a freshman – and the 165-pound husky is a terrific tackle prospect. Mary Jane is in the eighth grade. The Dowsetts raise grain and feed on their 91 tillable acres but have given up attempting to keep a dairy herd and sheep. Working a farm and a regular supervisory job do not go well together, Dowsett discovered. They keep hogs and chickens and put in about 35 acres of wheat each year. Their home, while not like the one they left in Detroit, is large, modern and comfortable, and their large farm buildings are in good condition. In fact, the entire layout is enticing enough to make almost anyone want to enjoy life on the farm. ***** Hastings Banner, April 24, 1952 14th Lucky Farmers reside in Baltimore Township An objective, hard work and perseverance – characteristics of American success stories – can be applied to the 14th couple to win the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz. The lucky farmers were Mr. and Mrs. William F. Richards, Route 4, Hastings, whose 120 acres is in Section 1 of Baltimore Township. The Richardses can be termed lucky farmers in every sense of the word – but the “lucky” is there strictly because of hard work. It wasn’t always in the Richards’ vocabulary. Before they purchased their present farm, they were among the vast agrarian community forced to sell dressed beef at five cents a pound. They remember selling eggs for eight cents a dozen, pork for five cents a pound, wheat for 32 cents “when a buyer could be found,” corn for s low as 25 cents a bushel and 30 cents a pound for homemade butter. Despite that Depression period, when the Richardses farmed an establishment in Maple LUCKY FARMERS – Mr. and Mrs. William Richards, Route 4, Hastings are pictured on the lawn in front of their modern home surveying the beauty of their farm in spring. Mr. and Mrs. Richards’ farm was the 14th pictured in the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz. – Photo by Barth. hired by the International Seal & Lock Company, and worked there three years. After that he moved on to Maple Grove Township farm. Mrs. Richards is the former Flossie Mead, daughter of James E. Mead, who died April 24, 1948, and Mrs. Hettie Mead, 836 E. Madison. She was born in Baltimore Township March 27, 1908. She attended the Striker School and Hastings High. She married Bill Oct. 20, 1927. The Rev. Leason Sharpe, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church, officiated at the ceremony during his first pastorate here. The Richards have a son, Pfc. William Richards Jr., a clerk with the 978th Ordinance Depot in Germany, and a daughter, Mrs. Norman (Doris) Boomer. When Bill Jr. returns from the wars, the homestead may be his under certain conditions, his Dad says. When the Richardses moved to their present farm, they took with them their two cows – they still have one of them – a team of horses and some tools. They now are milking nine cows, mostly Guernseys, out of a herd of 23, and he hopes to be milking 14 by next year. They have a tractor – they sold their last team two years ago – keep about 130 laying hens, have 400 chicks in the brooder and seven feeder pigs. A piped, free-flowing spring supplies constant water to the concrete tank in the barnyard. Someday, Bill hopes to pipe the spring water into the barn. While there has been, and still is, a lot of work – the Richardses have taken no vacations – they still have time for social and civic activities. They belong to the Farm Bureau and Mrs. Richards is a committeewoman of the Barry organization. She has been a director of the Branch school district several years, a 4-H leader for 12 seasons and has belonged to the Extension group for more than 20 years and has often been a leader. The Richardses have worked their farm methodically, using a five-crop rotation, and their efforts are apparent, so apparent that they’ve been offered $25,000 for the place as it stands. They hardly considered it. Bill says 1941, 1942 and 1943 were their best years on the farm, but from the twinkle in his eye – backed up by Mrs. Richards’ smile – every year must have had its compensations. GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 269-945-9554 for more information. 77568032 Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz revisited: Part VIII Grove Township, they managed to save $200 in cash. That $200 – with the Richardses’’ reputation for hard work and fair play – was sufficient for the downpayment on their present farm. The Richards have a world of respect and appreciation for Mr. and Mrs. Clayton McKeown, who now live on Route 1, Hastings. The McKeowns sold them their farm for the small cash outlay. The price for 76 acres, including the buildings, was $2,800. When that was paid off, the Richardses bought the remaining 44 acres for $800. It was a man and wife team, in the Richards’ own words, which put them in the happy financial spot they now find themselves. Both worked hard, both went without – they didn’t have electricity until after World War II –and both are now happily planning further accomplishments. The Richardses purchased the McKeown farm, which had been known as the Jim Rowden place, on Aug. 26, 1938. They had been on the other farm since March 8, 1930. Since that time, the buildings have been painted and will probably get another coat soon. They dairy barn has been modernized and a new 10-30 cement silo was constructed last fall. Bill wants to erect another silo and a new milk house. He’s planning to go more and more into grassland farming, and hopes to put up grass silage. The Richardses home is lovely. The kitchen is modern and banked with built-in cupboards – made by the couple. Nearly all of the work and improvements on the place were done by them. The color scheme in the home, selected by Mrs. Richards, does justice to the finest decorator. However, Mrs. Richards keeps a fine wood range. “I still love it.” she said. Bill was orphaned when he was 6 years old, an his foster parents were Mr. and Mrs. Frank Richards, of Freeport. He was born Dec. 17, 1902, in Detroit, and was adopted by the Frank Richardses soon after his parents died. His formal education was obtained at the Fillmore rural school. After completing his elementary education, he went to work on a farm, and at the close of World War I joined the Army and was in the 10th Infantry for three years. Returning to Barry County, he went to work in the Sigler Action piano shop in Hastings for a year. When the firm was purchased by Cable Nelson and moved to South Haven, he moved with it and worked there a year. In 1927, he returned here and after a short time with the E.W. Bliss Company, he was City of Hastings NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The City of Hastings will hold a public hearing on a proposed Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP) Upgrades Project for the purpose of receiving comments from interested persons. The hearing will be held at 7:00 PM on June 25, 2012 in Council Chambers at Hastings City Hall, 201 E. State St., Hastings, Michigan 49058. The purpose of the proposed project is to improve the City of Hastings Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP). Low interest rate funding is being pursued through the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality Clean Water State Revolving Fund Program. Phase I Project construction would involve the addition of a standby power source, sludge chemical feed system, blower controls, final settling tank improvements, and a post aeration system. The City considered the selected Phase I option versus the “No Action” Alternative. The “No Action” Alternative does not provide for needed improvements necessary for proper operation of the WWTP and therefore was not selected. The cost to complete the selected Phase I alternative is $970,000. A Project Plan was developed for the WWTP that also includes other projects including the construction of a new headworks including grit removal and fine screening, update to the sludge dewatering system, replacement of the waste and return sludge pumping/distribution system, SCADA improvements, improvements to the access for raw wastewater pumping, improvements to the primary treatment tanks, replacement of UV equipment, installation of an odor control system, and office/records storage improvements. These projects are necessary in the 20 year planning period, and will be constructed as future funding allows. Impacts of the proposed project include temporary disruption due to the required construction, including noise and dust generated by the construction work. The long term effects include improved performance of the facility and reduced operation and maintenance costs. The estimated cost to users for the Phase I projects will be approximately an additional $1.50 to $2.00 per month per residential unit. However, due to the fact that bonds are nearing the end of their payment schedule and the available current reserve funds, it is anticipated that the City may be able to mitigate the impacts to user rates. Future rate increases may be required to finance the construction of the other phases of the projects as outlined in the Project Plan. Copies of the plan detailing the proposed project are available for inspection at: Hastings City Hall 201 E. State St. Hastings, Michigan 49058 Hastings Wastewater Treatment Plant 225 N. Cass St. Hastings, Michigan 49058 Written comments received before the hearing record is closed on June 25, 2012 will receive responses in the final project plan. Written comments should be sent to the attention of the City Clerk at City Hall. 77568053 Tim Girrbach Director of Public Services �Page 10 — Thursday, May 24, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Letter of reprimand preceded HASS finance director’s resignation by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer In her letter of resignation dated April 27, former Hastings Area Schools Director of Finance Barb Hunt cited stress related to her employment. A copy of Hunt’s personnel file, obtained by the Banner through a Freedom of Information Act request, reveals that she received a letter of reprimand from Hastings Area Schools Interim Superintendent Michelle Falcon on April 25 citing three issues: the loss of a property tax check from Baltimore Township totaling $76,929; the failure to pay sales tax in December of 2008 and 2009 totaling nearly $920, resulting in the district being referred to the Michigan Accounts Collection System; and the disregard of a memo from the Barry Intermediate School District alerting Hastings Area Schools to a projected reduction in funding for the 2011-12 school year. “On April 23, 2012, while gathering information for the preparation of the 2012-13 school year budgets, we received an email from Barry Intermediate School District with regards to special education funds that are disbursed by the ISD,” Falcon wrote in her letter of reprimand. “It shows that we are scheduled to receive $62,182 in Section 52 funds for the 2011-12 school year. In our current year budget, the school system is budgeted to receive $445,000, leaving a deficit of $382,818.” Barb Hunt A memo from BISD Superintendent Jeff Jennette to Hunt dated April 21, 2011 carried the alert to the projected reduction in funding for the 2011-12 school year. “I am disappointed to inform you that our reimbursement for special education expenditures for the 2010-11 school year has decreased,” wrote Jennette. “Unfortunately, we are forecasting even less reimbursement next year due to decreasing property values.” In a letter of response to the reprimand, Hunt wrote that the funding reimbursement reduction was more than she had been led to believe it would be. “The budget was put together based on a conversation I had with the superintendent [Rich Satterlee] who stated that the amounts for 2011-12 should be similar and that the following year 2012-13 we would take a hit,” wrote Hunt. “The remarks were made based on a meeting the superintendent had with Jeff Jennette, superintendent of the BISD. The attached memo states they were forecasting even less reimbursement next year due to decreasing property values. Reading that led me to believe there was a possibility of a small decrease due to property values, not a decrease of 86 percent.” Hunt also responded to the issue of not paying the state sales tax in 2008 and 2009. “I received a call from the State of Michigan at the time of our January State Aid payment to let me know they were deducting the $919.84 from the State Aid payment,” explained Hunt. “In reviewing my reports, the annual returns for both 2008 and 2009 show the sales tax being paid. I have tried several calls to the State only to receive a run around and have left several messages to try and clear this up. I never received any return calls. I will continue to work on this matter.” As for the first circumstance mentioned in regard to the Baltimore Township check, Falcon described responding to a request that she become involved. “A check in the amount of $76,929.27 was issued by Baltimore Township on January 15, 2011, and sent to our office,” Falcon stated in the reprimand letter. “As of September 16, 2011, the check had not cleared their bank. After numerous attempts were made by the township clerk to contact our office, she sent me an email and asked me to facilitate the issue. The check was then reissued and deposited. Later, the first check was found in our office.” “I really do not know what to address with this point,” wrote Hunt in her reprimand response. “I remember seeing the letter about the original check not being cashed and asking Erin [Blakely, who works in accounts payable] to call and let them know. I do not know what happened to this check in particular. Generally, the checks go to Erin; she keeps them safe until she deposits them. I do not remember anything about phone calls not being returned. The documentation does not state anything about unreturned calls or who the calls were made to.” While in a previous statement to the Banner in reference to Hunt’s resignation, Falcon described Hunt as “a loyal and dedicated employee of the Hastings Area School System for over 12 years,” she concluded the letter of reprimand, dated April 25, with an apparently different perspective. “This lack of communication and budget oversight is fiscally irresponsible, deemed unacceptable and will not be tolerated,” said Falcon. “Due to the fact we are so close to deficit spending, [earlier budget predictions indicated a fund balance of less than $30,000 by June 30] heightened awareness to our revenues couldn’t be more crucial. Our March budget amendment led the board [of education], community, and staff to believe our financial outlook was much more favorable than it currently is due to this oversight. This revenue budgeting error could be significant enough to push our fund balance into a deficit condition for the current year. These continued failures of communication, lack of leadership and ownership as a finance director is a serious deficiency in performance. Any further incidents of this nature shall result in further disciplinary actions up to and may include termination of employment.” During last week’s board work session, Falcon announced that Tom Tebeau has been hired as the distict’s interim finance director for three months. Tebeau is a certified public accountant and the retired finance director of Williamston Public Schools who currently oversees the finance books of 25 charter schools. Tebeau will work with the board to prepare budget amendments and monthly financial statements, oversee the annual endof-year audit, and more. Falcon said financial and budget consultant Don Sovey is nearly finished with his work with the district and is expected to make a presentation about the budgeting process to the board Tuesday, May 30. Communities planning Memorial Day services throughout weekend to the Barry County Courthouse where the honor guard will place wreaths on the monuments there. A very short ceremony will take place, the rifle squad will fire, and “Taps” will be played. The parade will then continue south on Church Street to Center Street, east on Center Street back to the Felpausch parking lot to disperse. Anyone interested in being on this year’s parade is asked to call Jim Atkinson, Post 45 Memorial Day Parade chairman, 269-9488219 to register. Clarksville Lineup for Clarksville’s Memorial Day parade will be near Gateway Church at 8:15, with the parade stepping off at 8:45 a.m. A service will follow at Clarksville Cemetery at 9:15 with Pastor Nathan Gray speaking. (In case of rain, the service will be at Clarksville Bible Church.) Lake Odessa The Lake Odessa Area Historical Society will be hosting the sixth Memorial Day Weekend Military Tribute at the Lake Odessa Museum, 1117 Emerson St. The public is invited. Plainwell student dies in motorcycle crash The Barry County Sheriff’s Department is investigating a fatal traffic crash involving a 17-year-old motorcyclist. Initial investigation May 22 indicated that Patrick McCormick, a Plainwell High School student, was traveling north on Norris Road in Orangeville Township Tuesday when he lost control of a 2008 Kawasaki Vulcan motorcycle leaving the roadway. He was pronounced dead at the scene. He was wearing a helmet. This incident remains under investigation. McCormick was due to graduate from Plainwell High School Thursday. STATE OF MICHIGAN OFFICE OF THE BARRY COUNTY DRAIN COMMISSIONER In the Matter of: Middleville Towne Center Drain NOTICE OF MEETING OF BOARD OF DETERMINATION Notice Is Hereby Given that a Board of Determination will meet on Monday, June 4, 2012 at 7:00 p.m., Village of Middleville, at the Village of Middleville Hall, 100 E. Main St., Middleville, Michigan, to hear all interested persons and evidence and to determine whether the drain, to be known as the Middleville Towne Center Drain is necessary and conducive to the public health, convenience and welfare of the Village of Middleville, in accordance with Sections 72 and 191 of Act No. 40, P.A. 1956, as amended, and for the protection of the public health of the Village of Middleville. Proceedings conducted at this public hearing will be subject to the provision of the Michigan Open Meetings Act. You are further notified that information regarding this meeting may be obtained from the Barry County Drain Commissioner. Persons with disabilities needing accommodations for effective participation in the meeting should contact the Barry County Drain Commissioner’s office at the number noted below (voice) or through the Michigan Relay Center at 1-800-649-3777 (TDD) at least 72 hours in advance of the meeting to request mobility, visual, hearing or other assistance. Minutes of the meeting will be on file at the Barry County Drain Commissioner’s Office. You Are Further Notified that persons aggrieved by the decisions of the Board of Determination may seek judicial review in the Circuit Court for the County of Barry within ten (10) days of the determination. DATED: May 16, 2012 Russell Yarger Barry County Drain Commissioner 220 W. State St. Hastings, MI 49058 77567943 (269) 945-1385 Events will begin Friday, May 25, at 7 p.m. when two deceased veterans will be posthumously inducted into the Veterans Hall of Fame. This distinguished honor is given to persons nominated by the community and selected by the historical society. Local resident Stanton Strickland will be honored in a ceremony to recognize bravery and valor during combat in World War II at a special ceremony Saturday, May 26. The ceremony will begin at 2 p.m. at the museum. The nine medals were never awarded to Strickland upon his discharge from the army in August 1945. Lake Odessa’s Memorial Day Service will begin at 11 a.m. Monday, May 28, at Lakeside Cemetery near the flags. Middleville The Middleville Lions Club Memorial Day Parade wail be Monday, with lineup starting at 9:30 a.m. at McFall Elementary School. The parade starts at 10:30 a.m. and will stop at the bridge over the Thornapple River for a wreath ceremony. All veterans are invited to ride in a bus through the parade. The parade continues to Mt. Hope Cemetery for a ceremony and civilian flyover. Prairieville Prairieville Township Memorial Day Parade will be Monday at 1 p.m., starting at the corner of Norris and Delton roads to the corner of Norris and Pine Lake roads. Sunfield The Memorial Day service for Sunfield will be Sunday, May 27, at the United Brethren Church on M-43 Highway. The service will begin at 3 p.m. Speaker for the event will be Craig Mulholland. The service will be hosted by the Sunfield Daughters of Union Veterans of the Civil War 1861-65. Call Rosie Best, 517-566-8858 for more information. Woodland Woodland Township’s Memorial Day service will begin at 10 a.m. Monday, May 28, at Woodland Memorial Park on Velte Road (and at Woodland United Methodist Church on North Main Street, in case of rain). The speaker will be Barry County Commissioner Ben Geiger. Vermontville BARRY COUNTY ROAD COMMISSION Sealed proposals will be received at the office of the Barry County Road Commission, 1725 West M-43 Highway, P.O. Box 158, Hastings, MI 49058, until 3:30 P.M. Tuesday, June 5, 2012 for the following items. Specifications and additional information may be obtained at the Road Commission Office at the above address or at our web site at barrycrc.org. Treated Bridge Planking The Board reserves the right to reject any or all proposals or to waive irregularities in the best interest of the Commission. BOARD OF COUNTY ROAD COMMISSIONERS OF THE COUNTY OF BARRY Frank M. Fiala, Chairman D. David Dykstra, Member David D. Solmes, Member 77568083 CITY OF HASTINGS REQUEST FOR BIDS The City of Hastings is soliciting bids for the next placement of approximately 170 tons of hot mix asphalt paving in East Thorn Street from First Street to North East Street. Specifications are available from the Office of the City Clerk. The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in the bid proposals, and to award the bid as deemed to be in the City’s best interest, price and other factors considered. Sealed bids will be received at the Office of the City Clerk/Treasurer, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 until 9:00 AM on Tuesday, June 5, 2012 at which time they shall be opened and publicly read aloud. Bids must be clearly marked on the outside of the submittal package – “SEALED BID – Hot Mix Asphalt Paving East Thorn Street”. 77568051 Tim Girrbach Director of Public Services City of Hastings NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that the Hastings City Council will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, May 29, 2012 at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers, second floor of City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan. The purpose of the Public Hearing is for City Council to hear comments and make a determination on the necessity of improvements and the establishment of a special assessment district for the Downtown Parking Special Assessment District for 2012. The City will provide necessary reasonable aid and services to disabled persons wishing to attend these hearings upon seven days notice to the Clerk of the City of Hastings, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. Telephone 269/945-2468 or TDD call relay services 800/649-3777. Thomas E. Emery City Clerk 77568028 Memorial Day services in the village of Vermontville will begin at the American Legion Hall at 8:45 a.m. Monday, May 28. A troop salute will take place at the Thornapple River at 9:30, with a parade at 10 a.m.. The parade will start near Independent Bank, with pauses for gun salutes at the Civil War and Vietnam monuments. Dorothy Carpenter will speak about the Civil War. A bus will transport attendees to Woodlawn Cemetery where Rev. Israel Young will speak. Master of ceremonies for the service will be Tom Williams, commander of the American Legion. Treats will be served at the fire barn following the services. NOTICE TO BIDDERS City of Hastings NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON THE PROPOSED 2012/2013 FISCAL YEAR BUDGET The City of Hastings will hold a Public Hearing for the purpose of hearing written and/or oral comments from the public concerning the annual budget for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2013. The public hearing will be held at 7:00 PM on Tuesday, May 29, 2012 in the City Council Chambers on the second floor of City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. The City Council will consider the budget as proposed by the City Manager and presented to City Council on April 23, 2012. The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget will be a subject of this hearing. All interested citizens are encouraged to attend and to submit comments. A copy of this information, the entire proposed budget, and additional background materials are available for public inspection from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday at the Office of the City Clerk, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. The City will provide necessary reasonable aids and services upon five days notice to the City Clerk at 269.945.2468 or TDD call relay services 800.649-37777. Thomas E. Emery City Clerk 77567799 Several local communities will observe Memorial Day and the armed forces with special ceremonies and services this weekend. Likely sharing views with other parade organizers, the Hastings American Legion Post 45 reminds parade participants and viewers of the solemnity of the day. Participants are asked to remember this is a solemn parade to honor all veterans, living and dead, from all branches of service and all wars and conflicts, past and present. No sirens, horns, pamphlets, political advertising, candy or other celebratory activities are allowed. Following is information on area Memorial Day services that have been provided to J-Ad Graphics: Hastings Monday, May 28, the Memorial Day parade will step off at 9:30 a.m. from the corner of Boltwood and State streets. Groups or individuals wanting to participate in the parade will begin gathering at 8:30 a.m. in the former Felpausch parking lot. Due to the construction on M-37 and M-43 highways, the route will be changed this year. The parade will proceed west on State Street �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 24, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Mark A Edgar and Brenda K Edger, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated September 18, 2008, and recorded on October 7, 2008 in instrument 20081007-0009809, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Wells Fargo Bank, NA as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Forty-Three Thousand Four Hundred Fifty-One and 64/100 Dollars ($143,451.64). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 31, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 1203, Original Plan of the Village (Now City) of Hastings, according to the plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 3, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #290575F02 77567467 (05-03)(05-24) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Michele R. Cady, a married woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 25, 2005, and recorded on August 17, 2005 in instrument 1151282, and assigned by said Mortgagee to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Three Thousand Four Hundred Sixteen and 48/100 Dollars ($93,416.48). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 7, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The East 1/2 of Lots 62 and 63, Q.A. Phillips Addition to the Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan as recorded in Liber 1, Page 38, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 10, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #348982F03 (05-10)(05-31) 77567641 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Daryl R. Hamel and Nancy C. Hamel, as joint tenants., to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns., Mortgagee, dated November 15, 2006 and recorded November 28, 2006 in Instrument Number 1173169, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by The Bank of New York Mellon FKA The Bank of New York, as Trustee for the certificateholders of the CWABS, Inc., Asset-backed Certificates, Series 2006-25 by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of SixtyThree Thousand Forty-One and 86/100 Dollars ($63,041.86) including interest at 8.2% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on JUNE 14, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Hasting, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land located in the Township of Hastings, Barry County, State of Michigan, and described as follows: The North 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 4, Town 3 North, Range 8 West. Except: Commencing at the Northeast corner of the North 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of said Section 4; thence West 798 feet; thence South 660 feet; thence East 798 feet; thence North 660 feet to the place of beginning. Also Except: Commencing at the intersection of State Highway M-43 and The County Highway, known as, Barber Road; thence North 424 feet; thence due East to the center of M-43; thence Southwesterly along said centerline to the place of beginning. Also Except: Commencing at the North 1/4 post of said section; thence East along the North section line 135 feet; thence South parallel with the North and South 1/4 line 231 feet; thence West 135 feet to the North and South 1/4 line; thence Northerly along said North and South 1/4 line 231 feet to the Place of Beginning. Also Except: Commencing at a point 798 feet West of the Northeast corner of the North 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of said Section 4; thence South 40 rods; thence West 450 feet, more of less, to Coats Grove Road; thence following said road to the Place of Beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: May 17, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 347.0322 77567908 (05-17)(06-07) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Steven Elenbaas and Lynda Elenbaas, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 20, 2009, and recorded on May 6, 2009 in instrument 20090506-0004870, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Freedom Mortgage Corporation as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-Three Thousand One Hundred Ninety-Three and 07/100 Dollars ($163,193.07). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 21, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North 1/2 of Lots 49 and 50 on Thornapple Riverside, Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 55. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 24, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #334970F02 77568085 (05-24)(06-14) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Darla L Slumkoski, a single woman individual, original mortgagor(s), to Arbor Mortgage, Mortgagee, dated May 31, 2007, and recorded on June 6, 2007 in instrument 1181356, and assigned by mesne assignments to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Nine Thousand Nine Hundred Twenty-Seven and 42/100 Dollars ($139,927.42). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 7, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at a point 4 rods East of the Southeast corner of lot 45 of the Village of Delton, for place of beginning; thence East 8 rods; thence North 4 rods; thence West 8 rods; thence South 4 rods to place of beginning, all being in the Northwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of section 5, Town 1 North, Range 9 West The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 10, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #276109F02 (05-10)(05-31) 77567647 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by OWEN J. SABIN and CARLEEN R. SABIN, husband and wife (collectively “Mortgagor”), to FIFTH THIRD BANK an Ohio banking corporation having its principal office at 111 Lyon Street, NW, Suite 900, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503, (the “Mortgagee”), dated December 17, 2003 and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on January 2, 2004, in Instrument No. 1120158 as modified in Instrument No. 1162170 (collectively the “Mortgage”). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Two Hundred Thirty-Seven Two Hundred Thirty-Four and 00/100 Dollars ($237,234.00). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the Barry County Courthouse located in the City of Hastings, Michigan on Thursday, June 7, 2012, at 1:00 o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the Township of Yankee Springs, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: Begin 100.0 feet North of the South 1/4 post of Section 8, Town 3 North, Range 10 West, Yankee Springs Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence South 89 degrees 40 minutes West 738.15 feet to the center of creek; thence North 12 degrees 12 minutes West 336.0 feet along center of creek to a 4" concrete monument which is set in the bank about 20 feet East of the center of creek (center of creek is to be the boundary line, however); thence North 54 degrees 12 minutes West 166.10 feet along center of creek to an iron under an old foot bridge; thence North 23 degrees 06 minutes West 311.8 feet along center of creek to a 4" diameter concrete monument; thence South 65 degrees 07 minutes West 39.4 feet; thence North 23 degrees 06 minutes West 93.00 feet to the edge of the Mill Pond; thence North 59 degrees 10 minutes East 70.0 feet along edge of Mill Pond; thence North 21 degrees 51 minutes East 42.0 feet; thence North 19 degrees 31 minutes West 44.0 feet to the edge of the Mill Pond; thence North 54 degrees 07 minutes West 15.15 feet to a 4" diameter concrete monument a few feet from edge of Mill Pond and is the South boundary of the Springer (O'Dell) property; thence North 71 degrees 02 minutes East 163.6 feet to the center of public road which leads from the North to Bowens Mill; thence North 05 degrees 52 minutes 30 seconds East 104.37 feet; thence South 84 degrees 07 minutes 30 seconds East 206.0 feet; thence North 06 degrees 45 minutes East 377.6 feet; thence South 77 degrees 26 minutes East 342.07 feet; thence South 75 degrees East 350.46 feet; thence South 1249.50 feet along the North-South 1/4 line of said Section 8 to the place of beginning. Subject to an easement over the East 33 feet for highway purposes. Also all land along the Mill Pond between the markers and edge of the Mill Pond is part of this conveyance and all land along the East side of the creek between the markers and the creek is part of this conveyance, excepting therefrom commencing at the South 1/4 post of Section 8, Town 3 North, Range 10 West; thence North 1097.75 feet for a place of beginning; thence North 251.75 feet; thence North 75 degrees West 350.46 feet; thence North 77 degrees 26 minutes West 342.07 feet; thence South 06 degrees 45 minutes West 251.75 feet, (Bowens Mills Church Property); thence Southeasterly in a straight line to the place of beginning. Subject to an easement over the East 33 feet of this description along Briggs Road for public highway purposes, also excepting therefrom the South 488 feet thereof. Together with all of the estate, title and interest of Mortgagor, in law or equity, of, in and to such real estate and the buildings and improvements now existing, being constructed, or hereafter constructed or placed thereon, all of the rights, privileges, licenses, easements and appurtenances belonging to such real estate (including - all heretofore or hereafter vacated streets or alleys which are about such real estate), and all fixtures of every kind whatsoever located in or on, or attached to, and used or intended to be used in connection with or with the operation of such real estate, buildings, structures or other improvements thereon or in connection with any construction now or to be conducted or which may be conducted thereon, together with all building materials and equipment now or hereafter delivered to such real estate and intended to be installed therein; any rental revenues, payments, repayments. income, profits, charges. accounts, general intangibles, and moneys derived by Mortgagor (from the lease, sublease, sale, rental or other disposition of the Property, including, but not limited to, all rights conferred by Act No. 210 of the Michigan Public Acts of 1953, as amended (MCLA 554.231 et seq.), and Act No. 228 of the Michigan Public Acts of 1925 as amended (MCLA 554.211 et seq.) Commonly known as: 200 Old Mill Road, Middleville, Michigan P.P. # 08-16-008-020-50 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) stating that the premises are considered abandoned unless Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them gives the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys the premises at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee for damaging the premises during the redemption period. Dated: May 3, 2012 FIFTH THIRD BANK Mortgagee Jeffrey O. Birkhold WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2489 (616) 752-2000 8276021 77567517 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by DOUGLAS R. BAKER and MELISSA M. BAKER, husband and wife (collectively, "Mortgagor"), to GREENSTONE FARM CREDIT SERVICES, FLCA, a federally chartered corporation, having an office at 3515 West Road, East Lansing, Michigan 48823 (the "Mortgagee"), dated September 20, 2007, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on September 24, 2007, as Instrument No. 20070924-0002334, as amended by an agreement for extension or reamortization dated October 1, 2009, recorded November 6, 2009 as Instrument No. 200911060010869, Barry County Records (the "Mortgage"). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgagee is the owner of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Eighty-Seven Thousand Eighty-One and 09/100 Dollars ($87,081.09). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public venue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 14th day of June, 2012, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the Townships of Orangeville and Hope, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: Parcel 1: Southeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4, Section 13, Town 2 North, Range 10 West, except Commencing at the Southeast corner thereof; thence West along East/West 1/4 line 271 feet for point of beginning; thence North parallel with the East line of Section 13, 450 feet thence West parallel with East/West 1/4 line 300 feet; thence South parallel with East Section line 450 feet; thence East 300 feet to point of beginning. Also except commencing at East 1/4 post of Section 13, Town 2 North, Range 10 West; thence North 89 degrees 32 minutes 43 seconds West on East and West 1/4 line 1328.08 feet; thence North 0 degrees 38 minutes 43 seconds East on North and South 1/8 line 475.00 feet to point of beginning of this exception; thence continuing North 0 degrees 32 minutes 43 seconds East 285 feet; thence South 89 degrees 17 minutes 17 seconds East 300 feet; thence South 0 degrees 32 minutes 43 seconds East 285 feet; thence North 89 degrees 27 minutes 17 seconds West 300 feet to point of beginning; also excepting Orangeville Township commencing at East 1/4 corner of Section 13, Town 2 North, Range 10 West; thence North 89 degrees 08 minutes 21 seconds West 571 feet; thence Northerly parallel with East line of said Section 450 feet to point of beginning; thence Southerly parallel with East line of said Section 450 feet to East/West 1/4 line; thence North 89 degrees 08 minutes 21 seconds West 757.08 feet; thence North 00 degrees 32 minutes 43 seconds East 475.00 feet; thence South 89 degrees 27 minutes 17 seconds East 756 feet more or less to a point thence lies Northerly parallel with East line of said Section from point of beginning; thence Southerly parallel with said East line said Section 29 feet more or less to point of beginning. Except commencing at the Southeast corner of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 13, Town 2 North, Range 10 West, Orangeville Township, Barry Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Erin Merritt, a single woman and John F. Merritt, a married man and Jane Merritt, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 18, 2008, and recorded on April 24, 2008 in instrument 20080424-0004444, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Chase Home Finance LLC as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thousand Five Hundred Twenty-Three and 17/100 Dollars ($100,523.17). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 21, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North 1/2 of Lot 997 and the East 1/2 of the North 1/2 of Lot 998 of City Formerly Village of Hastings, according to the Plat thereof recorded in Liber A of Plats, Page 1 of Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 24, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #340480F02 77568078 (05-24)(06-14) County, Michigan; thence North 89 degrees 08 minutes 21 seconds West, on the East and West 1/4 line, 571.00 feet; thence North 0 degrees 24 minutes 49 seconds East, parallel with the East Section line, 475.00 feet to the point of beginning of the Parcel of land herein described; thence North 89 degrees 27 minutes 17 seconds West, 455.92 feet; thence North 0 degrees 32 minutes 43 seconds East, parallel with the North and South 1/8 line of said Northeast 1/4, 285.00 feet; thence North 89 degrees 27 minutes 17 seconds West, 300.00 feet to said 1/8 line; thence North 0 degrees 32 minutes 43 seconds East, on said 1/8 line, 100.19 feet; thence South 89 degrees 07 minutes 25 seconds East, 755.02 feet; thence South 0 degrees 24 minutes 49 seconds West, parallel with the East Section line, 410.00 feet to the point of beginning. Also Except commencing at the Southeast corner of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 13, Town 2 North, Range 10 West; thence North 89 degrees 08 minutes 21 seconds West, on the East and West 1/4 line, 271.00 feet; thence North 0 degrees 24 minutes 49 seconds East, parallel with the East Section line, 450.00 feet to the point of beginning of the parcel of land herein described; thence North 89 degrees 08 minutes 21 seconds West, parallel with the East and West 1/4 line, 300.00 feet; thence North 0 degrees 24 minutes 49 seconds East, parallel with the East Section line, 410.00 feet; thence South 89 degrees 08 minutes 21 seconds East, parallel with the East and West 1/4 line, 300.00 feet; thence South 0 degrees 24 minutes 49 seconds West, parallel with the East Section line, 410.00 feet to the point of beginning. Parcel 2: Parcel in Section 18, Hope Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner Section 18, Town 2 North, Range 9 West; thence North 88 degrees 51 minutes 14 seconds East 440 feet along the North line; thence South 1 degrees 8 minutes 46 seconds East 1833.47 feet; thence South 88 degrees 51 minutes 14 seconds West 427.09 feet to the West line of Section 18; thence North 1 degrees 32 minutes 58 seconds West 1833.52 feet along West line to point of beginning. Together with all fixtures, tenements, hereditaments, and appurtenances belonging or in any way appertaining to the premises. Commonly known as: vacant land on Keller Road, Delton, Michigan 49046 P.P. #08-11-013-011-00 (Parcel 1) and 08-07-018-218-05, 08-07-018-218-10 and 08-07-018-218-20 (Parcel 2) Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys the premises at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee for damaging the premises during the redemption period. Dated: May 17, 2012 GREENSTONE FARM CREDIT SERVICES, FLCA Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2487 (616) 752-2000 8302855-1 77567819 �Page 12 — Thursday, May 24, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Chester M. Maka and Dianne L. Maka, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 12, 2004, and recorded on April 26, 2004 in instrument 1126429, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Five Thousand Four Hundred Seventy-One and 14/100 Dollars ($125,471.14). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 21, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A Parcel of land in the Northwest 1/4 of Section 21, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, being more particularly described as commencing at the Northeast corner of said Section 21; thence North 89 degrees 48 minutes 22 seconds West along the North line of said Section 2644.25 feet to the North 1/4 post of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 13 minutes 15 seconds West along the North and South 1/4 line of said Section 1697.82 feet to the centerline of Highway M-43; thence 254.06 feet along said centerline and the arc of a curve to the right, Whose radius is 998.20 feet and whose chord bears South 57 degrees 03 minutes 30 seconds West 253.37 feet to the true place of beginning; thence continuing 50.99 feet along the centerline, and the arc of a curve to the right whose radius is 998.20 feet and whose chord bears South 65 degrees 48 minutes 49 seconds West 50.97 feet; thence South 67 degrees 16 minutes 36 seconds West along said centerline 134.05 feet; thence South 68 degrees 59 minutes 42 seconds West along said centerline 120.09 feet; thence South 00 degrees 22 minutes 51 seconds West 307.25 feet; thence North 89 degrees 45 minutes 19 seconds East 282.68 feet; thence North 00 degrees 13 minutes 15 seconds East 421.75 feet to place of beginning. Subject to an easement for ingress and egress and public utilities for the benefit of Parcel D over a parcel of land described as: commencing at the Northeast corner of said Section 21; thence North 89 degrees 48 minutes 22 seconds West along the North line of said Section 2644.25 feet to the North 1/4 post of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 13 minutes 15 seconds West along the North and South 1/4 line of said Section 1697.82 feet to the centerline of Highway M-43; thence 305.04 feet along said centerline and the arc of a curve to the right, whose radius is 998.20 feet and whose chord bears South 58 degrees 31 minutes 20 seconds West 303.85 feet; thence South 67 degrees 16 minutes 36 seconds West along said centerline 134.05 feet; thence South 68 degrees 59 minutes 42 seconds west along said centerline 33.90 feet to the East line of existing 66 foot wide easement for ingress and egress; thence South 00 degrees 22 minutes 45 seconds West along said East line 228.79 feet to the place of beginning; thence North 79 degrees 52 minutes 15 seconds East 228.84 feet; thence South 00 degrees 13 minutes 15 seconds West 67.09 feet; thence South 79 degrees 52 minutes 15 seconds West 229.03 feet to said East line; thence North 00 degrees 22 minutes 45 seconds East 67.13 feet to the place of beginning. Also together with and subject to an existing easement for ingress, egress and public utilities as described below.Also together with and subject to the rights of the public over the Northerly 33 feet thereof as used for Highway M-43. Description of centerline of existing 66 foot wide easement for ingress, egress and public utilities: Commencing at the Northeast corner of said Section 21, Town 2 North, Range 9 West; thence North 89 degrees 48 minutes 22 seconds West along the North line of said Section, 2644.25 feet to the North 1/4 post of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 13 minutes 15 seconds West along the North and South 1/4 line of said Section, 1697.82 feet to the centerline of Highway M-43; thence 305.04 feet along said centerline and the arc of a curve to the right, whose radius is 998.20 feet and whose chord bears South 58 degrees 31 minutes 20 seconds West 303.85 feet; thence South 67 degrees 16 minutes 36 seconds West, along centerline, 134.05 feet; thence South 68 degrees 59 minutes 42 seconds West along said centerline 69.34 feet to the true place of beginning; thence South 00 degrees 22 minutes 45 seconds West, 325.24 feet; thence South 19 degrees 38 minutes 38 seconds East 200.55 feet; thence South 05 degrees 33 minutes 41 seconds East, 221.02 feet; thence South 42 degrees 59 minutes 58 seconds West, 210.09 feet; thence South 47 degrees 57 minutes 58 seconds West 155.36 feet; thence South 68 degrees 57 minutes 42 seconds West 159.53 feet; thence North 76 degrees 01 minutes 17 seconds West 132.05 feet; thence South 84 degrees 07 minutes 17 seconds West 213.20 feet to the place of ending of said easement. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 24, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #395012F01 77568061 (05-24)(06-14) STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-26038-DE Estate of Sir Scott Smith. Date of birth: 07/27/1944. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Sir Scott Smith, who lived at 7613 Oak Drive, Delton, Michigan died 09/23/2011. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Deborah Smith, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West State Street, Hastings and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 05/16/2012 C. Marcel Stoetzel, III (P61912) 207 East Mill Street Hastings, Michigan 49058 (269) 948-8321 Deborah Smith 7613 Oak Drive Delton, Michigan 49046 77568022 (269) 623-8930 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE — THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT; ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY SERVICE PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW. Notice under MCL 600.3278: Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale under MCL 600.3201 et. seq., the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. ATTENTION POTENTIAL PURCHASERS AT FORECLOSURE SALE: In the case of resolution prior to or simultaneously with the aforementioned foreclosure sale, U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate 2001-4, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents may rescind this sale at any time prior to the end of the redemption period. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited to the return of your bid amount tendered at the sale, plus interest. Default having occurred in the conditions of a Mortgage made by Jose H. Dominguez, Jr. and Doris A. Dominguez, husband and wife, ("Debtors") to Green Tree Servicing LLC (f/k/a Conseco Finance Servicing Corp.), dated August 3, 2001, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry in the State of Michigan on August 7, 2001, in Document Number 1064399, et. seq., and being re-recorded on September 26, 2001 in Document Number 1067187, et. seq., said Mortgage being last assigned to U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate 2001-4 ("Green Tree"), by Mortgage Assignment dated February 6, 2012, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry in the State of Michigan on February 13, 2012, in Document Number 201202130001530, et. seq., on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due as of the date of this Notice the sum of $132,202.45, which amount may or may not be the entire indebtedness owed by Debtors to Green Tree together with interest at 7.99 percent per annum. NOW THEREFORE, Notice is hereby given that the power of sale contained in said Mortgage has become operative and that pursuant to that power of sale and MCL 600.3201 et. seq., on June 14, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., on the East steps of the Circuit Court Building in Hastings, Michigan, that being the place for holding the Circuit Court and/or for conducting such foreclosure sales for the County of Barry, there will be offered at public sale, the premises, or some part thereof, described in said Mortgage as follows, to-wit: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF IRVING, COUNTY OF BARRY, STATE OF MICHIGAN, IS DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: PART OF THE WEST 1/2 OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 23, TOWN 4 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, DESCRIBED AS: BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE NORTH AND SOUTH 1/4 LINE OF SECTION 23, DISTANT SOUTH 01 DEGREES 30' 32" WEST, 1724.04 FEET FROM THE NORTH 1/4 CORNER OF SECTION 23 AND PROCEEDING THENCE SOUTH 88 DEGREES 35' 54" EAST, 1316.12 FEET PARALLEL WITH THE EAST AND WEST 1/4 LINE OF SECTION 23; THENCE SOUTH 01 DEGREES 26' 11" WEST, 364.00 FEET ALONG THE EAST 1/8 LINE; THENCE NORTH 88 DEGREES 35' 54" WEST, 1316.58 FEET; THENCE NORTH 01 DEGREES 30' 32" EAST, 364.00 FEET ALONG THE NORTH AND SOUTH 1/4 LINE TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. which also includes any interest Green Tree may have in the 2000 Century Mobile Home, Serial Number MYD153819ABF. The redemption period shall be six (6) months unless the property is established to be abandoned pursuant to MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of sale or fifteen (15) days from the date the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(b) was posted and mailed, or unless under MCL 600.3240(17), prior to the foreclosure sale the borrower follows the procedure set forth in that section to establish the presumption that the property is used for Agricultural purposes, in which case the redemption period shall be one (1) year from the date of the sale. Dated: May 8, 2012 U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate PassThrough Certificate 2001-4, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents By: DONALD A. BRANDT (P30183) BRANDT, FISHER, ALWARD & PEZZETTI, P.C. Attorneys for Green Tree 1241 E. Eighth Street, P.O. Box 5817 Traverse City, Michigan 49696-5817 (231) 941-9660 File No.: 6140.1075 Ad #28028 05/10, 05/17, 05/24, 05/31/2012 77567692 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Lynne R. Miller, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated February 11, 2010, and recorded on February 18, 2010 in instrument 201002180001458, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Branch Banking and Trust Company as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Forty-Two Thousand Seven Hundred Fifty and 98/100 Dollars ($42,750.98). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 31, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 18, Cloverdale, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 30, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 3, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #397380F01 77567425 (05-03)(05-24) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by DONALD NEVINS and CASSANDRA A. NEVINS, husband and wife, and ELIZABETH M. NEVINS, a single woman (collectively, "Mortgagor"), to SAND RIDGE BANK, an Indiana corporation, of PO Box 598, Schereville, Indiana 46375, dated June 3, 2004, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on June 20, 2004, as instrument number 1130137 (the “Mortgage”). First Financial Bank, N.A., a national association, of 300 High Street, PO Box 476, Hamilton, Ohio 45011-0476, was the successor by consolidation to Sand Ridge Bank, and subsequently assigned the Mortgage to CHEMICAL BANK, a Michigan banking corporation, having an office at 333 E. Main Street, Midland, Michigan 48640-6511 (the "Mortgagee"), by assignment dated February 28, 2012, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on March 2, 2012, as Instrument No. 201203020002168 (the "Mortgage"). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgagee is the owner of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Sixty Three Thousand Seven Hundred Fifty One and 96/100 Dollars ($63,751.96). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 14th day of June, 2012, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: Lot 669 of the City, formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof. Together with all the improvements erected on the real estate, and all easements, appurtenances, and fixtures a part of the property, and all replacements and additions. Commonly known as: 512 W. State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 P.P. #08-55-001-206-00 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys the premises at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee for damaging the premises during the redemption period. Dated: May 17, 2012 CHEMICAL BANK Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center, 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2487 (616) 752-2000 77567838 8206150-1 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Michael J. Speck, a single man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 23, 2006, and recorded on January 25, 2006 in instrument 1159334, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Wells Fargo Bank, NA as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Seven Thousand Seven Hundred Twenty-Four and 32/100 Dollars ($97,724.32). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 14, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at a point 18 rods 7 1/2 feet East from the Southwest corner of Section 18, Town 2 North, Range 10 West; thence North 20 rods; thence East 16 rods; thence South 20 rods; thence West 16 rods to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 17, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #347952F02 77567832 (05-17)(06-07) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by MICHAEL D. BRZYCKI a/k/a MICHAEL BRZYCKI and JACKI BRZYCKI, husband and wife (collectively, "Mortgagor"), to GREENSTONE FARM CREDIT SERVICES, FLCA, a federally chartered corporation, having an office at 3515 West Road, East Lansing, Michigan 48823 (the "Mortgagee"), dated October 9, 2006, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on October 16, 2006, as Instrument No. 1171473 (the "Mortgage"). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgagee is the owner of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage. Mortgage Electronic Registration System (MERS) is not the sole foreclosing party. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Sixty-Four Thousand One Hundred Fifty-Five and 20/100 Dollars ($64,155.20). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public venue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 31st day of May, 2012, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the Village of Nashville, Township of Castleton, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: The South 40 feet of Lot 16, except the East 44 feet thereof, Plat of the Village of Nashville, Village of Nashville, Castleton Township, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Barry County Records. Together with all fixtures, tenements, hereditaments, and appurtenances belonging or in any way appertaining to the premises. Commonly known as: 102 N. Main Street, Nashville, Michigan 49073 P.P. #08-52-000-016-00 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys the premises at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee for damaging the premises during the redemption period. Dated: May 3, 2012 GREENSTONE FARM CREDIT SERVICES, FLCA Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2487 (616) 752-2000 8276572-1 77567472 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Stacy L. Johnson and Dean R. Johnson wife and husband, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated December 28, 2007, and recorded on January 2, 2008 in instrument 20080102-0000107, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Flagstar Bank, FSB as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixteen Thousand Two Hundred Seventy-Four and 07/100 Dollars ($116,274.07). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 31, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The West 57 feet of Lots 4 and 5, and the West 56 feet of Lot 3, all in Block 3, of A.W. Phillips Addition to the Village of Nashville, according to the recorded Plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 3, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #297864F02 77567412 (05-03)(05-24) AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTIFY US AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by Michael C Dunlap , a married man, Mortgagors, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc (MERS) as nominee for Providence Mortgage Company, Mortgagee, dated the 22nd day of February, 2008 and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, for The County of Barry and State of Michigan, on the 3rd day of March, 2008 in Liber instrument No. 20080303-0001940 of Barry County Records, page , said Mortgage having been assigned to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. on which mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, the sum of One Hundred Four Thousand Six Hundred Forty and 34/100 ($104,640.34), and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on the 7th day of June, 2012 at 1:00 o’clock PM Local Time, said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI (that being the building where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held), of the premises described in said mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due, as aforesaid on said mortgage, with interest thereon at 5.875% per annum and all legal costs, charges, and expenses, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sum or sums which may be paid by the undersigned, necessary to protect its interest in the premises. Which said premises are described as follows: All that certain piece or parcel of land, including any and all structures, and homes, manufactured or otherwise, located thereon, situated in the Village of Nashville, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and described as follows, to wit: Lot 85 of Mix Addition to Nashville, according to the plat thereof recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, page 69 of Barry County Records. During the six (6) months immediately following the sale, the property may be redeemed, except that in the event that the property is determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241a, the property may be redeemed during 30 days immediately following the sale. Pursuant to MCLA 600.3278, the mortgagor(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 5/10/2012 JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Mortgagee ____________ FABRIZIO & BROOK, P.C. Attorney for JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. 888 W. Big Beaver, Suite 800 Troy, Ml 48084 248-362-2600 CHASE FHA GNMA DUNLAP (05-10)(05-31) 77567673 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 24, 2012 — Page 13 LEGAL NOTICES SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by ALAN E. ORSESKE, A MARRIED MAN and MELISSA S. ORSESKE, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated August 28, 2003, and recorded on October 10, 2003, in Document No. 1115342, and assigned by said mortgagee to GMAC MORTGAGE, LLC SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO GMAC MORTGAGE CORPORATION, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Five Thousand Eight Hundred Seventy-Seven Dollars and Thirty-Five Cents ($65,877.35), including interest at 6.500% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on June 14, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: THAT PART OF THE SOUTHWEST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 5, TOWN 1 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, DESCRIBED AS: A PARCEL OF LAND IN THE SOUTHWEST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 5, TOWN 1 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, DESCRIBED AS: COMMENCING AT A POINT 46.5 RODS EAST OF THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF THE SOUTHWEST 1 / 4 OF SAID SECTION 5, FOR THE PLACE OF BEGINNING, THENCE SOUTH 10 RODS, THENCE EAST 4 RODS, THENCE NORTH 10 RODS, THENCE WEST 4 RODS ALONG THE MIDDLE OF HIGHWAY TO PLACE OF BEGINNING. ALSO COMMENCING AT A POINT 46,5 RODS EAST AND 10 RODS SOUTH OF NORTHWEST CORNER OF THE SOUTHWEST 1 /4 OF SECTION 5 FOR THE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE SOUTH 20 RODS, THENCE EAST 4 RODS, THENCE NORTH 20 RODS, THENCE WEST 4 RODS TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. GMAC MORTGAGE, LLC SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO GMAC MORTGAGE CORPORATION Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 GMAC.012199 (0577567926 17)(06-07) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Stephen M. Beyer, Married Man, and Catherine Beyer, His Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 27, 2009, and recorded on September 2, 2009 in instrument 200909020008888, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ninety-One Thousand Nine Hundred Seventeen and 87/100 Dollars ($191,917.87). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 31, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel A: Beginning at a point on the North-South 1/4 line Section 26, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, Thornapple Township, Barry County, Michigan, distant South 00 degrees 27 minutes 36 seconds West, 845.29 feet from the North 1/4 corner of said Section; thence North 80 degrees 42 minutes 21 seconds East, 801.52 feet to the centerline of Irving Road; thence South 41 degrees 29 minutes 30 seconds East, 449.81 feet along said centerline; thence South 43 degrees 36 minutes 25 seconds East, 50.12 feet along said centerline; thence South 48 degrees 30 minutes 30 seconds West 1513.35 feet to the North-South 1/4 line of said Section; thence North 00 degrees 27 minutes 36 seconds East, 1246.43 feet along said 1/4 line to the Point of Beginning. Subject to an easement for public highway purposes over the Northeasterly 33.00 feet thereof for Irving Road, and any other easements of restrictions of record. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 3, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #399782F01 77567400 (05-03)(05-24) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Carol L Anglemyer, and Edward F. Akin, as joint tenants with Full rights of Survivorship, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated June 18, 2003, and recorded on June 26, 2003 in instrument 1107200, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Four Thousand Seven Hundred Seventy-Five and 96/100 Dollars ($74,775.96). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on May 31, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Delton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land in the Northwest 1/4 of Section 20, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, described as: Beginning at the intersection of the North line of Guernsey Lake Road and the West line of Pike Road as Platted in the Plat of Diana Shores, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats on Page 24; Thence South 01 degrees 06 minutes East 33.00 feet to the centerline of Guernsey Lake Road, said Centerline Also Being the East and West 1/4 Line of said Section 20; thence North 89 Degrees 45 minutes West along said East and West 1/4 Line a distance of 261.50 feet; Thence North 01 Degrees 06 minutes West 407.00 feet; Thence South 89 Degrees 45 minutes East 261.50 feet to the West line of said Pike Road; Thence South 01 Degrees 06 minutes East along said West line 374.00 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 3, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #400120F01 77567406 (05-03)(05-24) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Laura C. Miller, a single woman, to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., Mortgagee, dated April 13, 2007 and recorded April 25, 2007 in Instrument Number 1179727, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, successor by merger to Chase Home Finance LLC by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-One Thousand Seven Hundred Twenty-Eight and 81/100 Dollars ($131,728.81) including interest at 6.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on JUNE 14, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 66 of Middleville Downs Number 3, Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 26. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: May 17, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 310.8582 77567898 (05-17)(06-07) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Denise T. Wolthuis, an unmarried woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 3, 2003, and recorded on July 28, 2003 in instrument 1109473, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Nineteen Thousand Two Hundred Sixteen and 94/100 Dollars ($119,216.94). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 14, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner, Northwest 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 20, Town 1 North, Range 10 West, Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan; thence East 23 rods to the point of beginning; thence East 516 feet; thence South 693 feet; thence West 516 feet; thence North to the point of beginning The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 17, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #403177F01 77567875 (05-17)(06-07) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Lindsey Bogerd, a single woman and Eric Smith, a single man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Quicken Loans Inc., its successors or assigns., Mortgagee, dated July 20, 2007 and recorded July 26, 2007 in Instrument Number 20070726-000177, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Bank of America, N.A. Successor by Merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP FKA Countywide Home Loans Servicing LP by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Three Hundred Forty-Nine Thousand Sixty-One and 73/100 Dollars ($349,061.73) including interest at 6.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on JUNE 14, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land located in the Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, State of Michigan, and described as follows: Lot 65 of Sunrise Shores #2, According to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plat on Page 98 Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: May 17, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 708.0721 77567913 (05-17)(06-07) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Todd L. Porter, single man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated October 21, 2009 and recorded November 10, 2009 in Instrument Number 200911100010962, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Chase Home Finance LLC by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Five Thousand Four Hundred Sixty-One and 67/100 Dollars ($75,461.67) including interest at 5.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on JUNE 14, 2012. Said premises are located in the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 128, City of Hastings, according to the recorded Plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: May 17, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 682.0573 77567903 (05-17)(06-07) FORECLOSURE NOTICE RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES, P.C. MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. Mortgage Sale - Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by Vicky Root, and Douglas C Root, wife and husband to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. acting solely as a nominee for Quicken Loans Inc., Mortgagee, dated November 17, 2006, and recorded on December 5, 2006, as Document Number: 1173504, Barry County Records, said mortgage was assigned to Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee of the Home Equity Mortgage Loan Asset-Backed Trust Series INABS 2007-B, Home Equity Mortgage Loan AssetBacked Certificates, Series INABS 2007-B under the Pooling and Servicing agreement dated June 1, 2007 by an Assignment of Mortgage dated April 19, 2012 and recorded April 26, 2012 by Document Number: 201204260004904, , on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Three Thousand One Hundred Ninety-Four and 20/100 ($93,194.20) including interest at the rate of 6.62500% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the Circuit Court in said Barry County, where the premises to be sold or some part of them are situated, at 01:00 PM on June 21, 2012 Said premises are situated in the Township of CASTLETON, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 31, TOWN 3 NORTH, RANGE 7 WEST Commonly known as: 3494 S MORGAN RD If the property is eventually sold at foreclosure sale, the redemption period will be 6.00 months from the date of sale unless the property is abandoned or used for agricultural purposes. If the property is determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 and/or 600.3241a, the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of sale, or 15 days after statutory notice, whichever is later. If the property is presumed to be used for agricultural purposes prior to the date of the foreclosure sale pursuant to MCL 600.3240, the redemption period is 1 year. Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages are, if any, limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: May 24, 2012 Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee of the Home Equity Mortgage Loan Asset-Backed Trust Series INABS 2007-B, Home Equity Mortgage Loan AssetBacked Certificates, Series INABS 2007-B under the Pooling and Servicing agreement dated June 1, 2007 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302, (248) 335-9200 Case 77568115 No. 12MI01177-1 (05-24)(06-14) SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by JEFFERY CHASE, A SINGLE MAN, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated May 17, 2007, and recorded on May 23, 2007, in Document No. 1180894, and assigned by said mortgagee to GMAC Mortgage, LLC successor by merger to GMAC Mortgage Corporation, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Twenty-One Thousand Three Hundred Seventy-Four Dollars and Eighty-One Cents ($221,374.81), including interest at 5.000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on June 7, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: PARCEL 1: A PARCEL OF LAND IN THE SOUTHWEST 1 / 4 OF THE NORTHWEST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 8, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 7 WEST, MAPLE GROVE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF THE SOUTHWEST 1 / 4 OF THE NORTHWEST 1 / 4 OF SAID SECTION 8; THENCE NORTH 88 DEGREES 31 MINUTES 15 SECONDS EAST 1320.80 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 00 DEGREES 04 MINUTES 40 SECONDS WEST 330 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 88 DEGREES 31 MINUTES 15 SECONDS WEST 1320.58 FEET TO THE WEST LINE OF SAID SECTION 8; THENCE DUE NORTH 330 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. PARCEL 2: A PARCEL OF LAND IN THE NORTHWEST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 8, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 7 WEST, MAPLE GROVE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE WEST LINE OF SAID SECTION 8 WHICH LIES 1488.25 FEET DUE SOUTH OF THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF SAID SECTION 8; THENCE NORTH 88 DEGREES 31 MINUTES 15 SECONDS EAST 1320.58 FEET TO THE WEST 1 / 8 LINE; THENCE SOUTH 00 DEGREES 04 MINUTES 40 SECONDS WEST 663.31 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 88 DEGREES 34 MINUTES WEST 1319.67 FEET; THENCE DUE NORTH 662.23 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. EXCEPT THE NORTH 165 FEET AND EXCEPT THE SOUTH 165 FEET OF THE ABOVE DESCRIBED PARCEL OF LAND. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. GMAC Mortgage, LLC successor by merger to GMAC Mortgage Corporation Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 GMAC.012202 (0510)(05-31) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Dennis Jay Steffes aka Dennis J Steffes and Tina Marie Steffes aka Tina M Steffes, husband and wife, as tenants by the entireties, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated November 22, 2004, and recorded on December 2, 2004 in instrument 1138030, and assigned by mesne assignments to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Forty-Eight Thousand Three Hundred Eight and 56/100 Dollars ($248,308.56). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 21, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Beginning at the Northwesterly corner of Lot 1 of Algonquin North Shore Subdivision, according to the recorded plat thereof in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 50, in Section 2, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, and Running thence North 51 degrees 04 minutes East 41.18 feet along Northwesterly line of said Lot; thence South 55 degrees 01 minutes 24 seconds East 57.0 feet along the Northeasterly side of said Lot; thence South 01 degrees 06 minutes 14 seconds West 155.34 feet along the East line of said Lot; thence North 89 degrees 22 minutes West 40.0 feet along the Plat Meander Line; thence North 22 degrees 45 minutes 04 seconds West 91.51 feet to a point on the West line of said Lot 1, distant South 00 degrees 16 minutes East 77.28 feet from the Northwesterly corner thereof; thence North 56 degrees 43 minutes 34 seconds West 85.40 feet to the center of Iroquois Trail (platted North Shore Drive); thence North 51 degrees 04 minutes East 65.0 feet along the center of said Street; thence South 00 degrees 16 minutes East 32.02 feet to the place of beginning. Extending the Easterly and Westerly sidelines to the Water's Edge of Algonquin Lake. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 24, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #337812F03 77568073 (05-24)(06-14) 77567717 �Page 14 — Thursday, May 24, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Hastings school board approves lease of five buses by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Students on five Hastings Area Schools bus routes will be riding to and from school in style in the fall of 2012. Despite the district’s precarious financial situation, the Hastings Area School Board of Education unanimously approved a motion to lease five buses. “It’s no secret we have an old fleet,” said Hastings Interim Superintendent of Schools Michelle Falcon. “Our fleet of buses range from 1996 to 2006.” Falcon said that while state inspectors typ- ically stop by during the summer months, they paid the district a surprise visit a couple of weeks ago. “In conclusion, they red-tagged a couple of buses ... We cannot use those at all, and they also let us know that two buses would not pass inspection a year from now; they are just too old,” she said. Falcon said the district’s finance committee is recommending a five-year lease to purchase five buses, maxing out at 20,000 miles per bus per school year. She said the bus that travels farthest in the district travels 18,000 per year. “It will be five annual payments of $57,930, and then if we want to purchase the buses, in July of 2017, we can purchase the buses for $137,500,” said Falcon. “The payment is really less than the cost of one bus. We need these buses ...” “We looked at this in finance committee, and it really made sense,” said board President Kevin Beck. “We really need to purchase buses ... Something had to be done, and we looked at several options — either purchasing or leasing — and this was the option that made the most sense.” Board Trustee John Hart asked if other buses would need to be replaced in the near future. Falcon said district staff is working on a replacement cycle that can be presented to the finance committee for consideration. Trustee Gene Haas said that ideally the district would be buying two or three buses each year. “We got a ways to go before we can do that,” he said. “But, at this point, the safety of the kids mandates that we do this.” LEGAL NOTICES 77567656 SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by RANDY J. SILSBEE, A SINGLE MAN, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated November 22, 2006, and recorded on January 3, 2007, in Document No. 1174584, and assigned by said mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Five Thousand Three Hundred Seventy-Nine Dollars and Twelve Cents ($105,379.12), including interest at 7.000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on June 21, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: PART OF THE NORTHEAST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 7, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST, DESCRIBED AS: COMMENCING AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF SAID SECTION 7; THENCE SOUTH 88 DEGREES 34 MINUTES 16 SECONDS WEST 497.86 FEET ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SAID SECTION 7 TO THE POINT OF THE BGINNING; THENCE SOUTH 88 DEGREES 34 MINUTES 16 SECONDS WEST 248.83 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 2 DEGREES 38 MINUTES 38 SECONDS EAST 262.69 FEET PARALLEL WITH THE EAST LINE OF SAID SECTION 7; THENCE NORTH 88 DEGREES 34 MINUTES 16 SECONDS EAST 248.83 FEET; THENCE NORTH 2 DEGREES 38 MINUTES 38 SECONDS WEST 262.60 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 JPMC.000277 (05-24)(06-14) Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads 77567687 NOTICE TO THE RESIDENTS OF BARRY COUNTY Notice is hereby given that the Barry County Zoning Board of Appeals will conduct a public hearing for the following: Case Number V-4-2012 William J Welch Location: 2841 West Shore Drive in Section 30 of Johnstown Twp Purpose: Requesting a variance to erect a house addition 10 x 12 ft too close to the side lot line two (2) ft (the minimum is 7.5 ft) per Section 403 (1.) and Section 1005 (5.)(c.) in the RL zoning district. Case Number V-5-2012 Ashley Seibel Location: 3265 River Lane in Section 26 of Hastings Twp Purpose: Requesting a variance to erect an attached carport 24 x 24 ft that is too close to the front lot line 32.7 ft and also erect a detached accessory building 24 x 40 ft that is too close to the front lot line 30.7 ft (the minimum is 50 ft) per Section 1105 (5.)(b.) in the RR zoning district. MEETING DATE:June 11, 2012 TIME: 7:00 PM PLACE: Community Room, Courts & Law Building at 206 West Court Street, Hastings MI Site inspection of the above described property will be completed by the Zoning Board of Appeals members before the hearing. Interested persons desiring to present their views upon an appeal either verbally or in writing will be given the opportunity to be heard at the above mentioned time and place. Any written response may be mailed to the address listed below, faxed to (269) 948-4820 or email to: jmcmanus@barrycounty.org. The variance applications are available for public inspection at the Barry County Planning Office, 220 West State Street, Hastings MI 49058 during the hours of 8am to 5pm (closed between 12pm to 1pm) Monday - Friday. Please call the Planning Office at (269) 945-1290 for further information. The County of Barry will provide necessary auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/hearing upon ten (10) days notice to the County of Barry. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the County of Barry by writing or calling the following: Michael Brown, County Administrator, 220 West State Street, Hastings MI 49058, (269) 945-1284. Pamela A. Jarvis, Barry County Clerk 77568045 77567960 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Joan Patricia Leos, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Lansing Automakers Federal CU, Mortgagee, dated August 27, 2002, and recorded on September 6, 2002 in instrument 1086940, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Six Thousand Seventy-Eight and 99/100 Dollars ($86,078.99). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 7, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Woodland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 7 and 8 of Block 9 of the Village of Woodland, according to the recorded Plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 10, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #383088F01 (05-10)(05-31) GRAND & GRAND PLLC 31731 Northwestern Hwy, #115 Farmington Hills MI 48334 PURSUANT TO 15 USC §1692 YOU ARE HEREBY INFORMED THAT THIS IS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION THAT YOU PROVIDE MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the condition of a mortgage made by James W. Holes, an unmarried man to MERS, MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC by a mortgage dated May 23, 2008 and recorded on June 11, 2008 in instrument number 200806110006132, Barry County Records Michigan and assigned to BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO BAC HOME LOANS SERVICING, LP FKA COUNTYWIDE HOME LOANS SERVICING, LP by an assignment of mortgage dated November 15, 2011and recorded on November 22, 2011 in instrument number 201111220010962 Barry County Records Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-One Thousand Eight Hundred Ninety-Seven and 87/100 Dollars ($161,897.87) including interest at 6% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings; Michigan at 1:00 pm on June 14, 2012. Said premises are situated in the Township of Yankee, County of Barry State of Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner of Section 22, Town 3 North, Range 10 West, thence South 80 rods, thence East 8 rods, thence North 80 rods, thence west 8 rods to the place of beginning, except commencing at the Northwest corner of Section 22, Town 3 North, Range 10 West, thence East 8 rods, for the place of beginning, thence South 160 feet, thence West 60 feet, thence North 160 feet, thence East 60 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: May 8, 2012 Michael M. Grand, Esq. GRAND & GRAND PLLC 31731 Northwestern Hwy., #115 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 (248) 538-3737 75033 (05-10)(05-31) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Stan L. Monks, a Single Man to Option One Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated August 15, 2005 and recorded August 22, 2005 in Instrument # 1151436 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Soundview Home Loan Trust 2005OPT3, Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2005OPT3, by assignment dated May 2, 2012 and recorded May 10, 2012 in Instrument Number 201205100005418 , on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Thousand Six Hundred Thirty-Five Dollars and Twenty-Nine Cents ($200,635.29) including interest 6.99% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on June 21, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North one-half of the North one-half of the Southeast one-quarter of Section 8, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, except the South 220 feet of the East 750 feet of the North one-half of the North one-half of the Southeast onequarter of Section 8, Town 4 North, Range 9 West. Except; beginning at a point on the East and West one-quarter line of Section 8, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, distant North 89 degrees 29 minutes 20 seconds West, 1353.00 feet from the East onequarter corner of said Section 8; thence South 05 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West, 660.00 feet to the South line of the North one-half of the North one-half of the Northeast one-quarter of said Section 8; thence North 89 degrees 27 minutes West, 1228.6 feet along said South line to the North and South one-quarter line of Section 8; thence North 00 degrees 29 minutes 40 seconds East, 657.2 feet along said North and South line to the center one-quarter corner of said Section 8; thence South 89 degrees 29 minutes 20 seconds East, 1280.4 feet along said East and West one-quarter line to the point of beginning. Commonly known as 6225 N Solomon Rd, Middleville MI 49333 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 5/24/2012 Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Soundview Home Loan Trust 2005-OPT3, AssetBacked Certificates, Series 2005-OPT3, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-61560 (0577568125 24)(06-14) 77567951 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Shawn M. Ricketts and Bambi R. Ricketts, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, Inc., Mortgagee, dated October 23, 2002, and recorded on November 1, 2002 in instrument 1090769, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Six Thousand Five Hundred One and 74/100 Dollars ($96,501.74). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 21, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 18, Fairview Estates No. 1, according to the recorded plat thereof in Liber 6 of Plats on Page 6. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 24, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #387378F01 77568068 (05-24)(06-14) Synopsis HOPE TOWNSHIP Regular Board Meeting May 14, 2012 All Board members present. 6 guests. Regular meeting opened at 7 p.m. Approved: Agenda Previous Minutes Standing Reports Bills Resolutions 2012-12, 2012-13, 2012-14, 201215. Bernard Museum Grant Brush Ridge Cemetery Well Repairs. Dust Control Program. July 4th office hours changed to July 3rd. Adjourned 7:45 p.m. Submitted by: Deborah Jackson, Clerk Attested to by Patricia Albert, Supervisor 77568066 77567954 Synopsis ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP SPECIAL MEETING GAS RESOLUTION “FRACKING” Meeting called to order at 7:00. All board members present. Also present 12 guests. Approved resolution to adopt millage language. Public comment received. Approved resolution to oppose hydraulic fracturing. Approved motion to adjourn. Respectfully submitted, Jennifer Goy, Clerk 77568025 Attested to by Thomas Rook, Supervisor The motion was passed unanimously. In other business, the board: • Accepted the personnel report containing notification of the following resignations: Michael Golczynski, Northeastern Elementary young fives teacher; Barb Hunt, district finance director; Jennifer Johnson, community education and recreation center facilities and programming coordinator; Susan Laubaugh, Star Elementary food service; Kristina Underwood, high school chemistry teacher; and, Samantha White, Hastings Community Childcare early childhood teacher. • Approved a motion authorizing Falcon to execute the purchase agreement to sell the Pleasantview Elementary School property to Robert Goldsworthy for $10,000. • Held a second reading and approved a new bullying policy. According to Falcon, major differences between the district’s existing policy and the new policy include annual notification of the policy will appear in the newspaper; the district’s superintendent is responsible for implementing the policy, there are specific guidelines and procedures for reporting bullying; provision for training; and includes the use of electronic devices before, during and after school hours. • Heard a presentation on social media by high school teachers Tracy George and Sara Matthews-Kaye and how it can be used by the district as a marketing and communication tool. • Approved the list of Hastings High School students eligible to receive diplomas. • Set a public hearing on the proposed 2012-13 budget for 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 12, in the multi-purpose room of Hastings Middle School. • Approved a motion to table personnel transfers and reassignments until its regular June meeting. • Accepted the following donations: Three boxes of books from Deb Wurm for the Roe Reading Library at Hastings High School; an anonymous donation of $1,000 given to the Hastings High School/Kellogg Community College Welding Program Partnership to cover starting costs for the program; $6,000 from the Hastings Athletic Boosters Club to purchase supplies and equipment for the spring 2012 athletic season; $4,903 from the Hastings Education Enrichment Foundation to help defray the cost of several programs, activities and field trips for students; and $2,500 from Flexfab, $200 from Hastings Fiber Glass, $100 from Hastings City Bank, and $100 from Hastings Manufacturing to support students attending the Business Professionals of America National Leadership Conference in Chicago. • Approved a resolution to participate in the Schools of Choice program for the 2012-13 school year. Board Trustee Dan Patton, who said Schools of Choice was due to state control of local schools, was the only board member to vote against approving the resolution. • Announced the next regular meeting of the board is slated for 7:30 p.m. Monday, June 18, in the multi-purpose room of Hastings Middle School, 232 W. Grand St. 77567948 77567957 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 24, 2012 — Page 15 Local attorney announces bid for Calhoun County prosecutor Long-time Calhoun County defense attorney and former chief assistant prosecutor of Barry County David Gilbert announced his candidacy for Calhoun County Prosecutor Monday. Gilbert, a Republican, is challenging Democratic incumbent, Susan Mladenoff. “Leadership has been severely missing from the prosecutor’s office since John Hallacy left the office and took the bench just under four years ago,” said Gilbert, who has an office in Hastings and who, acting as a defense attorney in Barry County Circuit Court, has accused Barry County Prosecutor Tom Evans of lack of proper conduct. In two cases in Barry County, Gilbert sought dismissal of charges against his clients due, primarily, to habitually late filings of evidence and documents by the local prosecutor’s office. Similar dissatisfaction in Calhoun County has encouraged Gilbert to seek the prosecutor’s office. Gilbert said he feels that the Calhoun County prosecutor’s office has disconnected from the community at large and from law enforcement. Feedback he has received from the community and law enforcement indicates that the prosecutor’s office is nonresponsive in many ways and is no longer serving the county and its residents effectively. The relationship with law enforcement has become tense. “It is my intention to bring leadership back to the office. The office needs to be more receptive and responsive to the people it serves and to provide law enforcement with the support, guidance and information they are currently not receiving.” Gilbert said his focus will be on drugs, victim advocacy, education of youth, and crime prevention as well as prosecution adding that “illegal drugs do more damage to our com- munity on a regular basis than any other factor, from the commission of other crimes to employment issues.” Gilbert, a graduate of Michigan State University and Thomas M. Cooley Law School, is also a member of the Michigan Bar Association. He was elected to the criminal law section board in 2007 and serves as the chair elect of the criminal law section. He was also elected to the representative assembly for the State Bar, where he serves as chair of the special issues committee. Gilbert is an adjunct professor for Kellogg Community College and serves on the paralegal advisory board for KCC. Additionally, Gilbert sits on the board of directors for the Southwest Michigan Council of the Boy Scouts of America, chair of the Nottawa Trails District Boy Scouts in Calhoun County and is a member of the National Eagle Scout Association. Man airlifted after crash on M-66 The Barry County Sheriff’s Department investigated a two-vehicle traffic accident on M-66 near Day Road in Assyria Township Monday, May 21. Initial investigation indicated a 25-year-old Battle Creek man traveling south on M-66 Highway reportedly entered the northbound lane occupied by an 83-year-old Bellevue woman heading north, and the two collided head on. The man was transported via helicopter to an area hospital. The woman was evaluated at the scene by EMS and released. The incident remains under investigation. No further information was available. POLICE BEAT BEA Items missing after stay in jail Barry County Sheriff Deputies responded to a reported burglary May 15 on East Dowling Road. Upon arrival, deputies spoke with a woman who said her dog had been stolen, a young yellow Lab. She led deputies to the house where they met with the complainant and homeowner. The man said he had been in jail for the weekend on disorderly conduct charges, and when he returned, he found items turned over in his living room, and a lock box was missing. The man also reported several prescription medications had been taken, some collectible coins dated 1908 to 1948, a 20gauge shotgun, five pure silver spoons, four collectible Buck knifes, and a World War I bayonet. Deputies found no evidence of forced entry. The case is inactive pending more information. Friend never shows up, but police do A Hastings Police officer noticed a man sleeping on a chair near a city parking lot in the 100 block of East Court Street at around 11:30 p.m. May 18. The officer also noticed that the man held what appeared to be a beer can. The man was awakened and told officers he was waiting for a friend, but that the friend never showed up. The officer then searched the man for weapons, finding some suspected marijuana, some unknown white powder, and pseudophedrine, along with a knife. The items were confiscated and the 45-year-old Hastings resident was taken to jail for possessing open intoxicants in public. Further testing will be performed on the suspicious items. Wheelchair-bound man attacked at home Deputies responded to Pennock Hospital May 4 for a reported assault victim who was being treated. Deputies interviewed the victim and two witnesses at the hospital. One of the witnesses said the suspect had been drinking alcohol during the day. The witness said she was outside doing yard work, while the suspect — her brother-in-law — and her father were inside the Maple Grove Road house. Her father was disabled due to a stroke. The witness said she heard a loud yell and her father banging on the window. She told deputies she quickly entered the house to find her father in his wheelchair with eye glasses half off his face. Reportedly, the 47-year-old brother-in-law was yelling obscenities at her father. Her father communicated that the suspect had grabbed his wrist, then his neck, and she told deputies she had noticed red marks on her father’s neck. In his hospital room, the victim told deputies he had been attacked, showing them his red wrist and neck. After leaving the hospital and arriving at the victim’s home, deputies were denied entrance to the house by a reportedly intox- icated woman. She also had several barking dogs at the door and refused to put the dogs away. Deputies informed the woman if the dogs became aggressive, they would be shot. She told deputies the suspect would come outside to talk. The woman started yelling at the suspect and followed him outside. Deputies told the woman to stand away from the man, and not interfere with the investigation or she would be arrested. The suspect said that while the witnesses were outside in the yard, the victim had entered the kitchen and tried to get something to eat. After the victim took some banana nut bread, the suspect said he started to push the father’s wheelchair into the living room, which is when the alleged altercation took place. During the interview, deputies noticed the strong smell of alcohol coming from the suspect. He refused to take a portable breath test. Deputies reported that they did not believe the man’s story. Based on witness accounts and physical evidence, deputies placed the 47-year-old man under arrest for domestic assault. At the Barry County Jail, the suspect’s registered .226 percent blood alcohol level. The victim’s daughter also requested a no-contact order be issued. The report was turned over to the prosecutor’s office for review. Floor lamp becomes weapon in dispute Deputies were dispatched May 4 to the scene of a reported domestic assault in Delton. Upon arrival at the Loon Echo Drive residence, deputies noticed a woman standing on the deck. They asked her to walk toward the patrol vehicle. Deputies reported the woman appeared to be intoxicated and was unable to form rational thoughts. After collecting herself, the woman told deputies an argument had started between her live-in boyfriend and herself. Deputies determined the woman had been left at another house and when she was able to get a ride home, the argument started. She said she had picked up a floor lamp during the argument and threw it at her boyfriend. He in turn picked up the lamp and threw it back at the woman, striking her in the head, causing a small cut above her ear. The lamp was later measured at 60 inches tall with a 18-inch base. When interviewing the boyfriend, deputies noticed the 37year-old Delton man also was intoxicated. He told deputies his girlfriend was crazy and had thrown a lamp at him. He also said she had broken his living room window, which on further inspection turned out to be a broken glass coffee pot near the window. He said the woman did not want to go home when he did, so he left without her. The man said she came home and started attacking him. He told deputies he had done nothing but be attacked in his own home. The man would not submit to a breath test. The woman’s test registered .20 percent blood-alcohol level. The woman complained of dizziness and lack of hearing in the ear near the head wound. She refused transport by ambulance, saying she could not afford it. She did however accept a ride to the hospital from a deputy. The case is pending review by the prosecutor’s office. Quick-change artists on the move Hastings Police were contacted Friday, May 18, regarding possible some suspected quick-change artists at the Family Fare Supermarket on West State Street. According to Spartan Stores loss-prevention personnel, the store had been the target of a quickchange scheme and has been targeted in the past The representative said two suspects had entered the store the previous day at about 6:22 p.m. Surveillance video shows two black males making a single item purchase and paying for it with a large denomination bill. After the clerk returned a large amount of cash, one of the suspects then attempted to confuse the clerk into giving back the large bill, while keeping the large amount of change. A manager spotted the scheme and approached the two as they spoke with the clerk. At one point, according to the loss-prevention representative, the cash drawer was closed and locked with the manager advising the two suspects that the money would need to be counted for security purposes. Without any further discussion the two suspects quickly left the store. The Hastings store reportedly did not incur any loss. The loss-prevention representative said the suspects went from the Hastings store to the Family Fare in Delton, arriving around 7:09 p.m. She said the Delton store had been swindled using the same quick-change scheme and that the Delton incident has since been reported to the Barry County Sheriff’s Department. Two videos of the suspects were given to Hastings City Police Monday, May 21. The videos show that the suspects are the same in both stores. In one incident, a bald-headed suspect is seen wearing a wide-brim straw hat. During both incidents, the suspect wearing a red ball cap performed the scheme, while the bald suspect aided in diversion. The two suspects are described as approxi- Safety belt enforcement zones underway For the next two weeks, motorists will see safety belt enforcement zones pop up across the state during the annual Click It or Ticket enforcement campaign that seeks to turn around a drop in seat belt use. Following the state’s record-high rate of 97.9 percent in 2009, seat belt use has declined to 94.5 percent in 2011. Every 1 percent increase in belt use means 10 fewer traffic deaths and 130 fewer injuries. In 2011, nearly 200 people who died in traffic crashes were not using seat belts. Research shows when seat belts are used properly, the risk of being killed in a crash is reduced by nearly 45 percent. “The Click It or Ticket campaign is one of the reasons Michigan has always been a leader in reducing traffic fatalities through a high seat belt use rate,” said Michael L. Prince, Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning director. “Since their introduction, seat belts have saved lives, and we want people to take advantage of this simple yet effective safety device.” For more than 40 years, the seat belt has been the primary safety feature in vehicles. To highlight the long, life-saving history of seat belts, news event are taking place in car museums across the state. Local police departments, sheriff offices and Michigan State Police posts covering 26 counties are participating in the Click It or Ticket enforcement campaign which runs through June 3 and includes Memorial Day weekend. The effort is supported with federal traffic safety funds, administered by OHSP, allowing for additional police officers to be out on patrol. Last year, nine people died over the Memorial Day holiday period. Of those, three were not wearing a seat belt. A safety belt enforcement zone involves law enforcement officers serving as spotters on the lookout for unbuckled motorists. The information is provided to other officers in the zone who pull over the motorists and issue a citation. Each enforcement zone is marked with a large sign. Michigan law requires all drivers and passengers 15 and younger in any seating position to be buckled up. Children must be in a car seat or booster seat until they are 8 years old or four feet, nine inches tall. COURT NEWS Jeffery Robert-Jay Bissett, 25, of Nashville was sentenced May 16 for delivery or manufacture of marijuana. He was ordered to serve nine months in jail, with credit for one day served. He must pay $1,698 in assessments and serve 24 months on probation. Bissett’s driver’s license is suspended for 365 days, with restrictions after 60 days. The balance of his jail time is to be suspended upon successful completion of probation. He must pay $100 per month toward the balance of assessments. Two charges of delivery or manufacture of marijuana five to 45 kilograms and a charge of maintaining a drug house were dropped. mately 40 to 50 years old. The bald suspect has a beard and mustache with sideburns going from his beard up and over his ears, toward the back of his head. The other suspect (who did the talking) has what appears to be a small graying beard and is wearing glasses during both incidents. Hastings Police Chief Jerry Sarver said, generally, these con-artists stop at numerous businesses as they travel from city to city. Anyone recognizing either of the suspects is asked to call the Hastings Police Department or Silent Observer. These two suspects were caught trying to make a confusing transaction at Family Fare stores in Hastings and Delton. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 For Sale Card of Thanks Real Estate AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 THANK YOU The family of Ronald A. Nash wishes to express our sincere thanks of all who sent cards of condolences and sympathy. To those who attended and took part in the funeral, to the MagnumCare doctors, nurses and aides who took such good care of Ron, and all those who visited him there. To those who sent flowers, plants and memorials to C.O.A. and American Legion Post #45. To Barlows, Hastings Flower Shop and especially to Girrbach Funeral Home and staff. To the Elks and those who prepared the luncheon. We are deeply grateful to all. God bless you. Suzanne, Julie, Dan & Amy, Tammy & Brad, grandchildren & great-grandchildren 5+ BEAUTIFULLY WOODED acres 5 miles to Torch Lake. Paved road, underground electric and telephone, clearing camping or building site. $29,900, low down, owner financing. www.northernlandco.com, Northern Land Company. (231)258-5100. DON’T PAY HIGH HEATING BILLS- Eliminate them with a Classic Outdoor Wood Furnace from Central Boiler. 25 year warranty. Call SOS your “Stocking Dealer”, Dutton, MI (616)554-8669 or (616)9155061. Estate Sale ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. Lawn & Garden ROTOTILLING: LOW RATES, will haul black dirt, wood chips. Little Luggers Hauling. (269)908-0567, (269)804-6027. For Rent 2 BEDROOM HOUSE for rent $600 a month. Leave a voice mail or text (269)9453954 SMOKE FREE 1 BDRM Low income housing for those age 50 and over. Friends and fun events! Potlucks, bowling, cards... Rent based on income. Call Lincoln Meadow EHO (269)795-7715 M-F 9-4 Garage Sale GARAGE SALE: MAY 2526th, 9am-6pm, 2257 Heath Road, Hastings. Kids clothes, toys and household items. MOVING SALE: 13011 Stuck Road, Delton, May 25th-28th, 9am-6pm. Collectibles, etc. Automotive 2004 GMC SIERRA Z-71 extended cab, leather, loaded with all available options, great condition, 160,000 miles. Asking $10,000 obo. Call (269)948-0502. THANK YOU Thomas P. Wood Jr. of Nashville passed away on May 7, 2012. Who was known as Tom to all his family and friends. He will be missed by all, Tom made everyone feel as though you knew him forever. He had a real zeal for life, dancing, singing and gardening. Let’s not forget his passion for cracking nuts and giving one and all a treat from his hard labor. The family would like to thank everyone for their prayers, cards and letters of inspiration in our time of need. A special thanks to United Methodist Church, Carl’s Super Market, Moo-Ville Creamery, Daniels Funeral Home and Reverend George Crawford for the eulogy. From the family of Thomas P. Wood, Jr. and Colleen Wanted BUYING OLD POCKET watches, old wind up wrist watches, working or not working. Call George (616)916-8271 GO METAL IS buying unwanted vehicles. Paying BUYING WWII, WWI, Civil cash. Call for quote (269)830- War uniforms, weapons, helmets, bayonets, German, 4842. www.gometal.net Japanese, and American. THE DETAIL WORKS, ask Call George (616)916-8271 about our buffing and touch up services. Typically cheapBusiness Services er than body shops. 44 years WATERexperience. Monday-Satur- BASEMENT day, 8:00am-5:00pm. PROOFING: PROFESSIONAL BASEMENT SERV(269)948-0958. ICES waterproofing, crack repair, mold remediation. National Ads Local/licensed. Free estiTHIS PUBLICATION mates. (517)290-5556. DOES NOT KNOWINGLY BOOKKEEPING accept advertising which is SERVICES deceptive, fraudulent or Personal * Self-Employed * might otherwise violate law Small Business Payroll * or accepted standards of Billing Accounts Receivable taste. However, this publica* Accounts Payable tion does not warrant or General Ledger guarantee the accuracy of Weekly * Monthly * Quarany advertisement, nor the terly * Annually quality of goods or services Call today! (269)420-5714 advertised. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made in any Recreation advertisements, and to use 2 SEAT ALUMINUM Bass good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when Boat, brand new 5hp motor dealing with persons un- and trolling motor, never known to you ask for money used, with trailer, $2,700obo. in advance of delivery of (269)945-3489 or (269)331goods or services advertised. 9325 Ask for Larry. WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are inVENDORS WANTED for terested in leasing acreage flea market every for this years deer season. Friday/Saturday. Four acres Call (269)795-3049 of parking! Concession trailer on site. Call 517-667-6866. Community Notices Help Wanted 25 DRIVER TRAINEES Needed NOW! Become a driver for Schneider National! Earn $750 per week! No experience needed! Local CDL Training! Job ready in 15 days! 1-877-649-2697. CUSTODIANS AND SUPERVISORS needed in the Hastings area. Looking for cleaners with reliable transportation and ability to pass a criminal/drug screening. Apply online at www.dmburr.com under the facilities management page. EOE YOU WANT QUALITY at affordable prices when you buy printing? Call J-Ad Graphics for everything from business cards and brochures to newspapers and catalogs. Phone (269)9459554 or stop in at 1351 N. M43 Hwy., Hastings. In Memoriam IN LOVING MEMORY E. John Cuddahee 3/11/1935 - 5/24/2000 Twelve years have passed since our last goodbye, It seems like only yesterday. I still hear your voice or see you laid back in your chair. I miss your wisdom and your guidance. I know you are there for me whenever I need you. Forever loved and forever missed, Dad. Love, Brian & Brenda L., Brenda Gale, Cathy, Felicia, Glen, Jeremy, Drew, Dylan PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 �Page 16 — Thursday, May 24, 2012 — The Hastings Banner 77565030 Keeping the Michigan Reformatory open This spring in Lansing I have found myself fighting a battle I didn’t see coming. While balancing the budget is one of the most important tasks for the legislature to complete, my job is to make sure it is balanced without negatively affecting the residents of this district. In March, during a meeting of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Corrections, committee members announced that they have plans to cut funding to the Michigan Reformatory in Ionia and relocate those prisoners elsewhere. In a discussion with one of my House colleagues who is a member of that subcommittee, he said the reason the reformatory should close is because it’s the oldest prison in Michigan. He even remarked that it was so old it could be turned into a historic movie set. Before the proposal to close the prison, I had the opportunity to take a tour of it. I was awestruck as I pulled into the parking lot. The reformatory looks like the setting of the movie “Shawshank Redemption.” It is imposing and eerie. The staff members I met at the facility were extremely professional and obviously dedicated to their jobs. Of the more than 90 corrections officers I met with, nearly all of them have been attacked, jumped on, threatened or soiled by prisoners. Yet they continue doing their jobs; they keep us safe and they ask for nothing in return but to not have their jobs taken away. They are heroes, and I have nothing but respect for the difficult jobs they do. I do not take the proposed closing of the Michigan Reformatory lightly. This facility has been integral to our state corrections system and our community for decades. The reformatory is not just a historic venue or a place that has potential for a movie shoot — it is a major employer. We are talking about 350 jobs — or more importantly — 350 families that would be faced with the awful consequences of unemployment. I do not blame the corrections subcommittee for considering closing the reformatory. Their job is to identify cost-saving measures to balance the state budget. But my job, as your representative, is to appeal to the subcommittee on behalf of my district. I will continue fighting tooth and nail to stave off any cuts to this facility and ensure that it remains open for the foreseeable future. If you’d like to share your thoughts on this issue, do not hesitate to email me, MikeCallton@house.mi.gov. Lakewood girls’ tennis third at its D3 Regional tourney The Vikings were just four points shy of a spot in the state finals. Lakewood’s varsity girls’ tennis team finished third at Thursday’s Division 3 Regional Tournament hosted by Haslett. The host Viking team took the regional championship with 27 points, while DeWitt earned the runner-up spot with 18 points. The Lakewood girls were third, with 14 points. The top two teams, and any other teams that scored 18 points at regionals around the state this week earned a spot in the finals. Lakewood’s girls were 8-8 on the day. Brooke Fox at second singles and Sunshine Young at third singles were each the runnerup at their flight. Fox knocked off Corunna 6-0, 6-0 and Charlotte 6-1, 6-1, before falling to Haslett’s top player in the finals 6-3, 6-4. Young lost a tight match in the finals to a player from Haslett as well, falling 7-5, 6-3. Young started her day with a 6-0, 6-0 win over Bay City John Glenn, then topped DeWitt 6-2, 6-2. Lakewood also had four third-place finishes. Viking first singles player Hannah Morris topped her opponent from Corunna 6-0, 6-2, before falling to state qualifier Ashley Reinbold from Charlotte 6-2, 6-2. The Lakewood second doubles team of Lexi Fetterman and Mary Wernet beat Fowlerville 6-1, 6-1, before falling to Corunna 7-5, 6-1. At third doubles, Olivia Bala and Heather Rice beat Corunna 7-5, 75, then fell to DeWitt 6-0, 6-3. In the fourth doubles flight, Lakewood’s Whitney Beglin and Louise Gross beat Bay City John Glenn 6-1, 6-2, then fell to Haslett 6-2, 6-1. NOTICE OF ZONING ORDINANCE ADOPTION Pursuant to the provisions of Public Act 110 of 2006, as amended, notice is hereby given that the Barry County Board of Commissioners has adopted the following Ordinance which amends the Barry County Zoning Ordinance of 2008 in the following manner: The Zoning District Map has been amended as follows: ORDINANCE NO: A-3-2012 From MU (Mixed Use)to RR (Rural Residential) - (Shaded Area) This map is a portion of the Official Zoning Map of Baltimore Township in Barry County, Michigan. All of the above mentioned property is located in Barry County, Michigan. Legal Description: Commence at the centerline of S M-37 Hwy. and the North line of Sec. 33 of Baltimore Township, Thence South 21 URGV��WK�6¶O\����URGV�WR�32%���7KHQFH�:¶O\�������IHHW��WKHQFH�6:¶O\�����IHHW��WK�6����GHJUHHV�:�����IHHW�WR�WKH� VKRUH�RI�&OHDU�/DNH��WKHQFH�(¶O\�DORQJ�WKH�VKRUH�����IHHW��WKHQFH�1(¶O\�����IHHW�WR�WKH�VRXWK�OLQH�RI�&DELQ�/DQH�� WKHQFH�1(¶O\�DORQJ�VDLG�VRXWK�OLQH�WR�WKH�FHQWHrline of S M-���+Z\��WK�1(¶O\�DORQJ�WKH�FHQWHUOLQH�RI�6�0-37 Hwy. to POB. Date May 22, 2012 _________________ Craig Stolsonburg, Chairperson Barry County Board of Commissioners _______________________________ ____________ Pamela A. Jarvis, Clerk Barry County Published Date: May 24, 2012 77568049 Th b d di b ff ti M 31 2012 C f thi di i il bl f h �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 24, 2012 — Page 17 Delton the only team to beat KVA’s champions Hackett Catholic Central’s varsity boys’ golf team beat runner-up Kalamazoo Christian by 20 strokes Monday at Riverside Country Club to win the KVA Tournament and win the outright league championship. The tournament standings matched the final league standings. Hackett took the day’s title with a score of 313, followed by Kalamazoo Christian 106, Pennfield 342, Schoolcraft 344, Delton Kellogg 346, Maple Valley 356, Olivet 360, Parchment 378 and Constantine 410. Delton Kellogg’s Mitchell Wandell and Zack Simon both earned all-conference hon- ors for the season. Wandell was sixth Monday to lead Delton with a 78. Simon added an 80, and Delton also got a 90 from Conner Worm and a 96 from Anthony Houtrow. Maple Valley’s Caleb Walker also earned all-league honors, winning the conference tournament with a three-over-par 75. Olivet’s Keagan Carpenter and Hackett’s Colin Joseph each shot a 76, and Hackett’s Ted Rider and Kalamazoo Christian’s Bailey Matheison both shot 77s. Behind the top two for Hackett, Luke Stull added a 71 and Spencer Walter an 81. Behind Walker for Maple Valley, Dale The Kalamazoo Valley Association named its 12 All-Conference golfers Monday, after the league championship a Riverside Country Club. The group included (from left) Ryan Gove (Christian), Tyler Masters (Olivet), Max Bales (Schoolcraft), Bailey Matheison (Christian), Keagan Carpenter (Olivet), Mitchell Wandell (Delton), Luke Stull (Hackett), Colin Joseph (Hackett), Ted Rider (Hackett), Caleb Walker (Maple Valley), Zack Simon (Delton), and Levi Hamlin (Pennfield). White shot a 91, Rage Sheldon a 92 and Nick Iszler a 98. Delton Kellogg beat two of the league’s top three teams on its home course at Mullenhurst Friday, shooting a 157. Hackett fired a 159 and Pennfield a 169. That was the lone loss of the league season for the Fighting Irish. Wandell led Delton with a 37, and Simon added a 38. The Panthers also got a 40 from Adam Farrah and a 42 from Worm. Rider and Joseph each shot a 38 for Hackett, while Walter added a 41 and Stull and Devin Bloomfield scored 42s. Levi Hamlin was the only golfer under 44 for Pennfield. Last Wednesday, Delton fell in a non-conference dual with Plainwell at Lake Doster Golf Course, 166 to 176. Wandell shot a 40, Simon a 41, Worm a 47 and Farrah a 48. Plainwell was led by Joel Keck’s 40. The Delton Panthers open state tournament action Thursday, May 31, with their Division 3 District Tournament at Yarrow Golf Course in Battle Creek. They’ll be joined there by Maple Valley, Lakewood, Allendale, Pennfield, NorthPointe Christian, West Catholic, Calvin Christian, Hopkins, Lansing Catholic Central, Olivet, Portland and Kelloggsville. DK tops Fennville after rough run through KVA Tournament The Panthers’ Adam Farrah sets up for a tee shot during Friday’s KVA Tri at Mullenhurst. Delton Kellogg’s varsity girls’ soccer team righted the ship, after a disappointing Kalamazoo Valley Association Tournament, by knocking off visiting Fennville 8-0 in nonconference action to close out the regular season Tuesday. Sarah Rendon scored twice in the first ten minutes for the Panthers, with an assist to Rachel Parker on the second goal. Hannah Phommavongsa would score twice in the first half, and Delton also got goals from Jaime Risner, Brianna Russell, Aryka Poling and Autumn Russell. Risner also had two assists in the game. Carlye Hammond had four saves for Delton, which ends the regular season with a 15-3 record. Delton Kellogg had just one loss heading into the Kalamazoo Valley Association Tournament. After a heart-breaking 1-0 overtime loss to visiting Hackett Catholic Central in the conference tournament semifinals Wednesday, the Delton girls were downed 51 by visiting Pennfield Friday in the match for third place. Pennfield got a goal in the first minute and a half. Brianna Russell answered soon after for Delton, Pennfield scored the only other goal of the first half, then backed on three goals in the second half for the runaway win. Madison Rench scored three times for Pennfield. Maggie Wenzel scored 31 seconds into the second ten minutes of overtime, breaking a scoreless tie, in Hackett’s 1-0 win over the Panthers Wednesday. Delton Kellogg had its chances, but missed one penalty kick and had another saved by Hackett keeper Grace Smith. Delton’s girls open play in their Division 3 District Tournament, which is being hosted by Pennfield next week, Monday when they head to Olivet to take on the Eagles at 6 p.m. Pennfield hosts Portland Monday in another opening round match-up, and the winners of those two games will meet in the district semifinals Wednesday at 5 p.m. at Pennfield High School. Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity girls’ tennis team was sixth at the Division 3 Regional hosted by Forest Hills Eastern Thursday, which head coach Larry Seger said “was probably the toughest regional in the state.” Finishing ahead of the Trojans were top ranked East Grand Rapids, No. 3 Forest Hills Eastern, No. 8 Grand Rapids Catholic Central, South Christian and Grand Rapids Christian. The Trojans were sixth, ahead of Unity Christian, Rogers, Creston and Wyoming Park. TK picked up five victories on the day. First singles player Emmie Beckering opened the day with a 6-0, 6-2 win over Wyoming Park’s top player, but then fell 6-1, 6-0 to Courts from South Christian who was seeded second. TK’s Kendall Goosen beat Creston at third singles, 6-3, 6-3, before falling to Forest Hills Eastern 6-0, 6-0. “We had some great play from our team at the regionals,” said Seger. “Emmie (Beckering), Shannon (Hamilton) and Kendall (Goosen) all played some great tennis in their last matches. All three were hitting the ball with good pace and depth.” On the doubles side, TK got three wins. Claudia Dykstra and Hannah Bayshore topped Rogers 6-1, 6-3, before falling to Forest Hills Eastern 6-2, 6-0. TK’s Whitney McCullough and Hannah Lamberg at third doubles beat Creston 6-0, 6-0, then ran into an FHE team as well and fell 7-5, 6-1. In the fourth doubles flight, TK’s Erin Leach and Megan Zoet topped Rogers 6-1, 61, before falling 6-1, 6-1 to South Christian. “We got the best match of the year from our third doubles team,” Seger said. “Lamberg and McCullough pushed state ranked FHE to 7-5 in the first set and played out the match contesting every point. Both players were much more aggressive at the net and played with more consistency throughout the match.” Saxons and TK at TK girls get a few wins at tough regional back of Gold golf pack Sinclair, a 98 from Josh VanSickle, a 100 from Ben Jazwinski, and a 101 from Alex Koetsier. Caledonia had two golfers shoot 80, Joey Baum and Zach Paavola. The Fighting Scots also got an 82 from Matt Miller and an 85 from Ryan Coe. Hastings tuned-up for the league tournament by hosting its own Hastings Invitational Thursday at Hastings Country Club. The Saxons were second on the day, behind Marshall. The Red Hawks fired a 166 to the Saxons’ 177. Coloma was third with a 186, followed by Maple Valley 191, Hastings ‘Blue’ 197 and Calvin Christian 203. Buehler paced Hastings with a 41, and the Saxon varsity also got a 44 from Klotz, a 45 from Thurman and a 47 from Isgard. Hastings ‘Blue’ was led by Chris Feldpausch’s 44. Tom Peurach added a 48, Peter Beck a 52 and Austin Caris a 53. The Saxons return to action Thursday, May 31, at their Division 2 District Tournament at The Emerald in St. Johns. Vikes second heading into league tourney Lakewood fell into a tie for second place in the Capital Area Activities Conference White Division standings with its fourth-place finish at Monday’s league jamboree hosted by Portland at Portland Country Club. Lansing Catholic took over sole possession of first in the league with its win. The Cougars shot a 156, followed by Williamston 159, Portland 160, Lakewood 163, Corunna 168 and Perry 178. The Vikings are tied with Williamston for second in the overall league standings heading into the league’s 18-hole championship, which will be at The Emerald Tuesday. Adam Barker, Kyler Clark and Blake Yeager each shot a 40 at Portland Country Club to pace the Viking team. Jade Bosworth added a 43. Yeager finished with a 40 thanks in part to a birdie on the par-3 number 10, which was nearly a hole-in-one. “It bounced about three feet from the hole, hopped, hit the pin, and bounced back,” said Lakewood head coach Carl Kutch. “He made the five-foot putt for birdie. Blake managed the course well and posted one of his best rounds of the year today.” Lansing Catholic took first with the help of two of the day’s three best scores. Jacob Johnson shot a 36 and teammate Brent Marshall added a 37. Portland’s Alex Haik also fired a 37. The Vikings led the league standings coming into play Tuesday, after a second-place 77568107 CELL PHONE BOOSTER 06778835 Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads finish at Thursday’s jamboree at Brookshire Golf Club. There they finished one spot ahead of Lansing Catholic to take over sole possession of first place in the league standings. Williamston scored a 161 to win on its home course Thursday. The Vikings fired a 163, followed by Lansing Catholic 163, Portland 167, Corunna 183 and Perry 188. The Vikings edged the Cougars on the fifth score tie-breaker. Lakewood’s Adam Barker tied Williamston’s Keaton Fate for medalist honors on the day. Each shot a 37. Bosworth, Clark, Ben Ridder and Royce Everts all added 42s for the Vikings. Lansing Catholic was led by Marshall’s 38. Certified Financial Planning Randy Teegardin, CFP.® Hastings City Bank Trust and Investment Group 269-945-2401 150 W. Court St. Hastings, MI 49058 Licensed / Insured / Local Call Scott 517-290-5556 • 877-448-1548 TWO BROTHERS AND A TENT NASHVILLE CAR CLUB For All Your Tent Rental Needs is looking for participants for our car show parade June 16th 2012. Tables and chairs available. Call: Dan McKinney 269-838-7057 or Tom McKinney 269-838-3842 77568047 FREE Consultation & Estimates! ALSO EGRESS WINDOWS / MOLD REMEDIATION 77566915 Line up at the Nashville VFW. Entries should arrive at 10:00 am. Parade starts at 11:00 am. Anyone interested should contact Tracey Andrews at 517-673-6481. 77567853 Investment opportunities include non deposit investments which are: Not FDIC Insured Not Bank Guaranteed May Lose Value 06781844 Of the four golfers who broke 80 at The Meadows Monday, three were from South Christian. South Christian’s varsity boys’ golf team won the O-K Gold Conference Championship by winning Monday’s conference tournament on the campus of Grand Valley State University with a score of 310. Runner-up Caledonia was 17 strokes back with a 327. Forest Hills Eastern took third with a 328, followed by Wayland 357, Grand Rapids Catholic Central 358, Hastings 362 and Thornapple Kellogg 392. The Sailors’ Ben Cook was the day’s medalist, with a one-over-par 73. South Christian also got a 76 from Blake DeVries, a 78 from Ben Elenbaas, and a pair of 83s from Nick VanderHorst and Kade Hoeksema. Forest Hills Eastern’s Jake Austin was the only other golfer under 80, matching DeVries’ 76. Hastings was led by Danny Buehler’s 83. The Saxons also got a 90 from Fredrik Isgard, a 94 from Logan Barrett and a 95 from Dylan Thurman. Thornapple Kellogg got a 93 from Adam �Page 18 — Thursday, May 24, 2012 — The Hastings Banner DK needs just one champ to win KVA championship by Brett Bremer Sports Editor It was almost all or nothing for the Panthers. Delton Kellogg’s varsity boys’ track and field team clinched its third straight Kalamazoo Valley Association title by winning the conference meet in Delton Tuesday by 20.5 points over runner-up Parchment. Delton Kellogg clinched the outright league championship and undefeated conference season despite having a conference champion in just one event, the high jump. “Before the meet we were talking about hey, we might not even have a league champion in any event,” said Delton Kellogg boys’ head coach Dale Grimes. “We were thinking legitimately we could end up with no league champion in any event and still be in contention for a league championship. It just shows that depth, and those extra points, and getting that second guy to squeeze into the points or third even.” Delton had three boys score in both the high jump and two scorers in the pole vault, the long jump, the 110-meter high hurdles, the 300-intermediate hurdles, the 1600-meter run and the 200-meter dash. The only event Delton didn’t score in was the shot put. Senior Ryan Watson matched his own PR (personal record) of 6 feet 1 inch to win the high jump competition. He was just one inch better than Olivet’s Nate Paton. “I literally can’t jump, but I just have good form,” Watson said. “If I could jump I could get maybe another five inches hopefully. I just love high jump. I don’t have any pressure in it.” He just started competing in the high jump a year ago. “I was just kind of a natural at it form the beginning thankfully,” said Watson. “This year I really got a lot better at it. I’ve gained about four inches from last year.” Delton also had Mike Bassett seventh in the event at 5-8 and Billy Schut tied for eighth at 5-6. Watson also was fourth in the 1600-meter run in 4 minutes 50.00 seconds and fifth in the 800 in 2:06.00. Maple Valley had three conference champions on the day and Parchment five. Delton Kellogg finished with 108.5 points. Parchment was second with 88, followed by Schoolcraft 77, Hackett Catholic Central 66.5, Pennfield 55, Galesburg-Augusta 53, Olivet 49, Constantine 46 and Kalamazoo Christian 38. Schoolcraft’s girls’ won their ninth consecutive conference championship, dating back to their days in the St. Joseph Valley League. Delton Kellogg’s girls’ team had one conference champion as well, with Andrea Polley taking the 300-meter low hurdles in 49.30 seconds. The Delton Kellogg boys placed third in the 3200-meter, the 1600-meter and the 800meter relay races, and fourth in the 400-meter relay. That showed off some of the Panthers’ depth. “It’s a lot of hard work,” Watson said. “You have to have depth too. It’s not just one person. You definitely need a lot of people to be in there with you. We push each other in practice. That’s always good.” The Delton hurdlers always push each other, and Delton’s Brandon Robbins pushed Parchment’s Jesse Ring in both races. Ring took the 300-meter intermediate hurdles by a tenth of a second over Robbins. Ring finished in 41.10 and Robbins in 41.20. Delton also had Mike Bassett fifth in that event, in 43.40. In the 110-meter high hurdles, Ring won in 15.40, with Robbins second in 15.80. Bassett Delton Kellogg’s varsity boys’ track and field team celebrates its third consecutive Kalamazoo Valley Association championship after winning Tuesday’s conference meet at Delton Kellogg High School by 20.5 points over runner-up Parchment. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Delton Kellogg’s Ryan Watson leads a pack of runners around the final turn during the 800-meter run Tuesday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Delton Kellogg honored long-time starter Wayne Adams during Tuesday’s Kalamazoo Valley Association Conference Meet. He was presented with a plaque by superintendent Paul Blacken. Adams served as a starter for high school and middle school track and field meets for 25 years. (Photo by Brett Bremer) was fourth this time, in 16.50. Behind Watson in the 1600-meter run, Delton had Jarryd Calhoun seventh in 4:53.60. The two scorers in the 200 for Delton were Nick Brindley, who was fifth in 24.20 and Adam May who was sixth in 24.30. Delton Kellogg had two scorers in two other field events besides the high jump. Brady Mills was third in the pole vault at 116 and teammate Kenny Coates fifth at 11-0. In the long jump, Delton’s Lucas Hansen was fifth at 18-6 and Connor Wolschleger sixth at 18-5.75. Maple Valley’s Garrett Reid the long jump, flying 20-4. He also added a third-place time of 11.10 in the 100-meter dash and a thirdplace time of 23.20 in the 200-meter dash. Parchment’s Mike Emig won the 200 in 21.80 and his teammate Jalen Hodgson won the 100 in 11.00. Those two teamed with Alex Lasher and Brandon Linstead to win the 400meter relay in 44.30 and the 800-meter relay in 1:32.40. Maple Valley’s Keegan Yost lets a throw fly in the shot put competition during Tuesday’s KVA Meet at Delton Kellogg High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Reid also teamed with Joe Eddy, Robbie Welch and Gunner Tobias to win the 160meter relay for Maple Valley in 3:35.70. Thrower Keegan Yost had a good day for the Lions, winning the shot pt at 50-5 and placing second in the discus with a mark of 137-3. Schoolcraft’s Drew Douglas won the discus with a mark of 143-6. Parchment was also second in the girls’ standings. Schoolcraft won the girls’ title with 148 points, followed by Parchment 120.5, Olivet 96, Constantine 70, Maple Valley 62.5, Delton Kellogg 57, Kalamazoo Christian 44, Hackett Catholic Central 36, GalesburgAugusta 24 and Pennfield 4. Delton Kellogg’s girls had two runner-up finishes. The team of Jolene Drum, Alicia Lindsey, Nikki Thompson and Andrea Polley Delton Kellogg’s Tyler Dempsey takes off at the start of the 400-meter dash during Tuesday’s KVA Meet in Delton. (Photo by Brett Bremer) finished second in the 1600-meter relay to end the night with a time of 4:28.90. The Parchment foursome of Laura Nordquist, Ari Karaptian, Kendyl Hinton and Paige Berg won that race in 4:15.20. Delton Kellogg also had Mallory Sewell second in the shot put with a mark of 31-6. Hackett’s Maggie Smith won that event at 336.25. Delton had second scorer in the shot put, Courtenay Dirks, who was eighth at 28-8. That was the only event Delton Kellogg had two scorers in. Jessica Rushford won three championships Delton Kellogg’s Jolene Drum (right) and Parchment’s Laura Nordquist round a corner during the 1600-meter run Tuesday in Delton. (Photo by Brett Bremer) to lead the Maple Valley team. She took the 1600 in 5:32.40, the 800 in 2:29.40 and the 3200 in 12:01.60. Delton Kellogg’s Drum was fourth in the shorter two of those races, also behind Schoolcraft’s Madeline Hartlieb and Parchment’s Nordquist in both, finishing the 800 in 5:50.00 and the 800 in 2:34.60. Berg from Parchment was the only other girl to win multiple individual events. She took the 100 in 12.70 and the 200 in 26.20. Saxon softball 7-7 in Gold after two wins over FHE Hastings’ varsity softball team ends the OK Gold Conference season in fourth place after a sweep of visiting Forest Hills Eastern Monday afternoon. The Saxons won game one 9-4, then mercied the Hawks in game two 13-3, to finish the league season with a 7-7 record. A grand slam by Katie DeVries helped the Saxons jump out to a 5-1 lead after two innings in game two. It was her third home run of the season, and the Saxons’ second home run of the day. Hastings also added three runs in the third inning, three in the sixth, and one in the fifth. The Saxons were helped out by a number of walks in the contest. They had five alone in the sixth inning, with Farrah Salazar drilling an RBI triple and Katy DelCotto an RBI single during that rally as well. Walks to Lexi Clow, MacKenzie KellerBennett and DelCotto, combined with a single by Brianne Whiteman and a sacrifice ground out off the bat of the DeVries got the Saxons their three runs in the third. Laken Meade earned the victory pitching in both games for the Saxons. The Saxons broke a 2-2 tie in game one with a five-run fourth inning. Clow drilled her first home run of the season, with two runners on in the bottom of the fourth. The Saxons also got a doubles from DeVries, a double from Stevie Pennepacker and Shelby Price in the inning. A triple by Clow helped the Saxons score SAXON WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE Complete online schedule at: www.hassk12.org MONDAY, MAY 28 SATURDAY, JUNE 2 Forest Hills Eastern HS A 9:00 AM Boys Varsity Track Barry County Meet @ Maple Valley Barry County Invite @ Maple Valley Districts A 9:00 AM Girls Varsity Track A 10:00 AM Boys Varsity Baseball H 12:00 PM Girls Varsity Softball TUESDAY, MAY 29 3:00 PM Boys Varsity Track 3:00 PM Girls Varsity Track 6:00 PM Girls Varsity Soccer WEDNESDAY, MAY 30 4:30 PM Girls Varsity Softball Harper Creek Community A High School DH A A A A Thanks to This Week’s Sponsor: Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, P.C. “Quality Care with Compassion” THURSDAY, MAY 31 9:00 AM Boys Varsity Golf State Finals @ Houseman Field GR State Finals @ Houseman Field GR Plainwell High School Districts @ Otsego Plainwell High School Districts @ Otsego Districts – @ Emerald A Golf Course - St. Johns Times and dates subject to change HASTINGS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS Contact Nancy 945-2742 or hastingsathleticboosters@gmail.com to sponsor the schedule 840 Cook Rd. Hastings, MI 49058 Phone: 269-945-9520 Toll Free: 800-596-1005 Contact us on the web @ www.hoc-mi.com 77568012 6:00 PM Boys Varsity Baseball their final two runs. Hastings was 1-2 Saturday at the Charlotte Invitational, falling to the eventual champions from Mason 8-3 to start the day. Mason broke open a tight game with four runs in the top of the seventh inning on an error, a walk and a pair of hits. Singles by Marissa Adams, DeVries, Salazar and Erika Rozell helped the Saxons tack on one run in the bottom of the seventh, but that was all. Hastings got RBI singles from DeVries and Clow to plate its first two runs of the game. The Saxons scored three times in the bottom of the sixth inning to earn an 8-7 win over Lake Fenton in their second game of the day. Meade had three singles in the contest, starting the sixth inning rally with the last one. Salazar reached on an error, and they both came home on a double by Rozell which tied the game. Rozell went to third on a wild pitch, and came home on a fielder’s choice ground out off the bat of Pennepacker. Lake Fenton scored three times in the top of the first, but Hastings came right back with two runs in the bottom half. A Meade single, a DeVries doubles, and a walk by Pennepacker loaded the bases. Whiteman and Price were then both hit by pitches to drive in the two runs. Lake Fenton got those tow runs back in the top of the second, on four singles, but the Saxons answered again in the bottom half. This time the Saxons got an RBI single from DeVries and a two-run single by Pennepacker to tie the game at 5-5. Lake Fenton then took the lead back in the top of the fifth, with two runs. Meade earned the win for Hastings, and also pitched a great third game. Olivet edged Hastings 2-1 to close out the day. Olivet loaded the bases in the top of the seventh with two singles and a walk, then got an infield hit to score the game-winner. Hastings also loaded the bases in the seventh, but was unable to score. Hastings got its lone run on an RBI triple from Salazar, which scored Meade who reached on an error in the bottom of the fourth. Hastings will open play in its Division 2 softball district June 2, in the semifinals against Plainwell at Otsego High School. Game time is set for 10 a.m. Gull Lake and Otsego meet in the other district semifinal that day at noon, with the championship to follow. Hastings’ Erika Rozell takes a swing at a pitch during Thursday’s doubleheader at Battle Creek Pennfield. (Photo by Perry Hardin) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 24, 2012 — Page 19 Maple Valley sweeps doubleheader with Constantine by Brett Bremer Sports Editor “Gonser! Gonser!” were the shouts from the Lion dugout as a trio of Maple Valley defenders closed in on a fly ball in center field during the bottom of the sixth inning of game two against Constantine Thursday. The Lions had just seen a 7-2 lead disappear, and Constantine’s Chase Niblock was tagging up at third base waiting to try and score the go-ahead run. The Lion center fielder, Austin Gonser, snagged the fly-ball off the bat of the Falcons’ Justin Bontrager for out number two then fired a strike towards home plate. “We know that’s the arm we want coming off the sweep of the teams’ Kalamazoo Valley Association doubleheader in Vermontville. Maple Valley also took the opener, 7-3. “We’ll take two wins any time we can get them,” said Carpenter, who’s team has now won four in a row. “We played better lately. I think this was kind of a letdown because we knew they weren’t great. We kind of breathed a little bit tonight, but at the same time we fought and won games we should have won. We came back, and that’s good for us.” Hickey drove in three runs in the game two win with a bases loaded triple in the top of the fifth inning, and came home himself on the play when the Falcons’ throw home went to the backstop. The six other Lion hits in the contest were all singles, one each for Gonser, Sammy Benedict, Kyle Brumm, Tommy Mudge, Garrett Miller and Brandon Erwin. Erwin hit a two-run single to open the scoring in the top of the second inning, after Mudge and Cody Sivyer reached on walks. Benedict had an RBI single in the Lion’s five-run fifth. Those five runs in the fifth broke a 2-2 tie, putting the Lions up 7-2, but the Falcons struck back for three runs in the bottom half of the inning then tied the game with its two runs in the bottom of the sixth. Johnson got the win, in relief of Brumm on the mound. Brumm struck out eight and gave up nine hits, one walk and five earned runs in his five innings. Johnson struck out one, gave up three hits, and one earned run over the final two innings. “It seems like more times than not this year, we’re on the losing end of one-run baseball games,” Carpenter said. “We’ve lost 2-1 a few times, and 5-4 and 7-6. For us to get it being the visitors and having to come back out in the bottom of the seventh is good for us.” Tyler Eley and Tommy Reed led the Constantine attack. Eley was 3-for-4 with an RBI and three runs scored. Reed was 3-for-4 too, with a pair of doubles and three RBI. Mudge got the win in game one. He struck out five, walked three and gave up five hits in five innings. All three Falcon runs came in the top of the second, and were unearned. Johnson shut down the Falcons in the sixth and seventh to close it out. The Lions broke a 3-3 tie with two runs in the bottom of the fourth. Three Falcon errors and an RBI single from Gonser pushed across the two runs in the inning. Gonser was 2-for3 with two runs scored and the one RBI. The Lions had four other hits, a double from Mudge, which led to a run in the fifth, and singles from Johnson, Hickey, Brumm and Mudge. Maple Valley’s Sammy Benedict gets a jump off first base during the bottom of the sixth inning of game one against Constantine Thursday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Beau Johnson pitches for Maple Valley during the top of the sixth inning of game one Thursday against Constantine. (Photo by Brett Bremer) to the plate if there’s going to be a play,” said Lion head coach Bryan Carpenter. “He knows he can make that throw. There’s no lack of confidence on his part, or in us with him making that throw. That’s not the first time he’s done it. “He’s going to be special. He’s only a sophomore. He’s going to be special.” Lion catcher Tyler Hickey caught the ball a step up the third baseline and tagged out Niblock to end the Falcon threat. Hickey then singled to lead-off the top of the seventh, went to third on two wild pitches, and came home on an RBI single from Tommy Mudge to put their team up 8-7. Lion reliever Beau Johnson shut out the Falcons in the bottom of the seventh to finish Maple Valley’s Austin Gonser drops down a sacrifice bunt during the bottom of the sixth inning of game one against Constantine Thursday in Vermontville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Strong relays help Viking girls to 2nd at regional The area had the best throwers and the best sprinter at the Division 2 Regional Meet hosted by Mason High School Friday. Thornapple Kellogg’s Fiona Shea won the 100-meter dash in 13.20 seconds and the 200 in 26.35. Her teammate Erin Ellinger won the shot put with a throw of 37 feet 9 inches, and Lakewood’s Ashley Jemison won the discus competition with a throw of 116-5. The top two finishers and others who met pre-determined times and distances at the regional earned spots in the Division 2 State Finals which will be at Houseman Field in Grand Rapids June 2. Between the Lakewood, Thornapple Kellogg and Hastings varsity boys’ and girls’ track and field teams there were 20 state qualifying performances. Jemison’s Lakewood girls’ team had six of those, and finished as the regional runner-up to Eaton Rapids. The Greyhound girls finished the day with 97 points. Lakewood was second with 74, followed by Gull Lake 72, Thornapple Kellogg 71, Mason 65, Charlotte 65, Hastings 58, Harper Creek 47, Coldwater 31, Parma Western 21.5, Marshall 18, Jackson Northwest 15, Wayland 13, Ionia 11.5 and Portland 4. The Lakewood ladies had a great day in the relays, placing second in three of them. The Viking team of Ellie Reynolds, Madison McLean, Alexis Kosten and Mycah Ridder was second to Harper Creek in the 800-meter relay, finishing in 1 minute 50.85 seconds. That same Lakewood foursome was second to Charlotte in the 400-meter relay with a time Lakewood’s Mycah Ridder hits the finish line during a heat of the 100-meter dash Friday at Mason. of 51.29. The Vikings closed the evening with the team of Kosten, McLean, Cori Curtis and Ridder placing second to Harper Creek in the 1600-meter relay with a time of 4:10.95. Ridder qualified for the state finals in all four of her events, also placing second to Shea in the 200-meter dash, hitting the finish line in 26.77. Hannah DeJong is the Vikings’ other state qualifier, after a seventh-place performance in the high jump. She cleared 5-0. Hastings’ Rachel Quillen will join her at the high jump at the state finals. She was third in the event, clearing 5-2. Eaton Rapids’ Kathryn Nills won the event, clearing 5-4. TK’s Erin Ellinger is headed to the finals in both throws, also meeting the state qualifying distance in the discus, where she was third with a mark of 112-3. Jemison also scored in both throws for the Viking girls’ team. She was sixth in the shot put at 33-7.75. TK had three girls score in the shot put. DJ Minor was third with a mark of 34-8.75 and Aimee Ellinger was eighth at 3211. Hastings other state qualifier is Nikki Redman, who will return to the state finals in the 300-meter low hurdles. Gull Lake’s Corinne Roller won that race in 48.51 and Redman was second in 48.91. The area did well in that event as well, with Reynold fourth in 50.31 and TK’s Heather Raymond seventh in 52.13. Both hurdle races were filled with local girls. Reynold was third in the 100-meter hur- TK girls slip to Sailors in Gold tourney semifinal South Christian scored six goals in the first half, and went on to a 6-1 win over visiting Thornapple Kellogg Monday. That victory gave the Sailors the chance to face Caledonia’s varsity girls’ soccer team in the O-K Gold Conference Tournament championship game Wednesday in Caledonia. Erin Scheidel scored the only goal for the Trojans Monday, off an assist from teammate Kelli Graham. Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity girls’ soccer team broke a 2-2 tie by scoring the only four goals of the second half in a 6-2 win over visiting Wayland Thursday in the opening round of the O-K Gold Conference Tournament. Graham had three goals in the win over the Wildcats, and Hayley Balsitis, Victoria Fuller and Maki Agostini also scored for the Trojans. Holley Tripp had two assists, and Balsitis and Erin Scheidel had one each. Ashley Wroblewski and Hannah Gray scored the two goals for Wayland. The Trojans open play in the Division 2 District Tournament being hosted by Harper Creek on Monday at 6 p.m., with a game against the host Beavers in Battle Creek. Charlotte and Coldwater also meet Monday, in Charlotte. The winners of those two contests will meet in the district semifinals Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. at Harper Creek High School. Saxon soccer falls in first two Gold tournament games Hastings’ varsity girls’ soccer team was slated to host Ottawa Hills for the final game of the O-K Gold Conference Tournament Wednesday. The Saxons fell in their first two tournament games. South Christian, which was scheduled to take on Caledonia in the conference tournament championship game Wednesday, started its run to the final with an 8-0 win over the Saxons last Thursday. The Sailors scored five times in the first half, then ended the game early with three more second-half goals. Seven different girls scored for South Christian. Morgan Torres had two goals, and Kayla Diemer, Jessica Owen, Cassidy Bosselaar, Jess Lockwood, Allie Oeverman and Jamie Visser each scored once. Hastings then tell 3-1 at Wayland Monday. Erikka Makowski had two goals for the Wildcats and Ashley Acton one goal and one assist. The Saxons return to action Tuesday, when they’ll play host to Gull Lake to open their Division 2 District Tournament. The winner of that contest will take on Plainwell at Harper Creek High School Wednesday at 7 p.m. in the district semifinals. dles with a time of 16.50, with Hastings’ Quillen and Redman placing fifth and sixth respectively and her Lakewood teammate Cassidy Curtis seventh. Hastings’ Trista Straube and Thornapple Kellogg’s Casey Lawson were just off the pace to qualify for state in the distance races. Straube was third in the 1600-meter run in 5:26.28 and Lawson fourth in 5:30.05. In the 3200-meter run, Straube was third again in 11:56.48, and Lawson fifth in 12:02.07. Lakewood’s McLean was also one place shy of an automatic spot in the state finals, placing third in the 400-meter dash in 1:02.74. She’s still going to the state finals in the three relay races though. Hastings’ Jacob Comer qualified for the state finals in three events for the second year in a row in the boys’ meet. He won the 110meter high hurdles in 15.05 and the 300-meter intermediate hurdles in 39.93. In between those two events, he teamed with Devon Bancroft, Stephen Kendall and Chad Reedy to place second in the 800-meter relay in 1:34.10. Those performances helped the Saxons to a sixth-place finish. Harper Creek won the day’s boys’ title with 95.83 points. Ionia was second with 77, followed by Charlotte 64, Mason 60.5, Eaton Rapids 54.5, Hastings 46, Gull Lake 45, Thornapple Kellogg 45, Parma Western 43, Marshall 35.33, Pennfield 31, Wayland 30.83, Lakewood 17, Jackson Northwest 7, Portland 6 and Coldwater 5. Thornapple Kellogg had a handful of state qualifying performances, including two in the discus. Trey Mahon won the event with his throw of 157-11, and teammate Adrian Foster qualified with a third-place throw of 145-0. TK also had Tanin Eckhoff qualify for the state finals with his second-place jump of 6-4 in the high jump, and Dustin Brummel qualify in the 1600-meter run with his runner-up time of 4:26.05. Eckhoff also just missed out in the 110meter hurdles, placing third in 15.60. Comer wasn’t too far off qualifying for the finals in four events. He and teammate Joey Siska both scored in the pole vault, with Siska third at 11-10 and Comer fifth at 11-4. Lakewood’s Cody Collins also cleared 11-4, placing fourth. Parma Western’s Nathan Mcumber won the event by clearing 12-10, and Ionia’s Caleb Merrifield was second at 12-4. Dr Carrie Wilgus is pleased to announce the addition of a new Mid-Level Provider to her team! Please welcome to our team: Christi Bush PA-C. Christi is a board certified physician assistant who received her degree from Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Christi grew up in Bay City Michigan. After high school, Christi attended Alma College where she received her degree in Psychology. For seven years, Christi worked as a social worker serving the community of Tuscola County in Michigan. She later began practicing in the Bay City area as a physician assistant, where she has spent the past year and a half caring for children at a local medical office specializing in pediatrics. Christi now calls Hastings home and is looking forward to becoming a part of our small community. As a board certified physician assistant, Christi will provide services in the office and hospital setting. She is qualified to treat children from birth to adolescence, providing medical services from: Preventative Services, Well Exams, Behavior and Attention Problems, to management of Chronic Illnesses. Christi is now accepting appointments for new and established patients Monday-Thursday 9am - 5pm and Fridays 1pm - 5pm. Dr Carrie Wilgus and Christi Bush, PA-C Now Accepting NEW PATIENTS! Hastings Pediatrics 1761 W. M-43 Hwy., Suite 2 Hastings, MI 490588 Phone: 269-948-7337 Fax: 269-948-9976 Office Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8am - 5pm 77568105 �Page 20 — Thursday, May 24, 2012 — The Hastings Banner DK and MVHS sending a handful to D3 State Finals The night ended with a thrilling 1600meter relay, and Delton Kellogg helped decide the regional champion. Grand Rapids West Catholic’s and Grandville Calvin Christian’s varsity boys’ track and field teams each finished Friday’s Division 3 Regional with 118 points. The Falcons caught the Squires in the day’s final event, winning the 1600-meter relay with the team of Brody Heitzman, Ben Serra, Kyle O’Hearn and Joseph Harmon finishing in 3 minutes 29.20 seconds. Calvin Christian was third in that race, in 3:31.90. Delton Kellogg’s foursome of Tyler Dempsey, Phoenix Pease, Ryan Watson and Connor Wolschleger took the runner-up spot in the race, qualifying for the Division 3 State Finals in the process, finishing in 3:31.39. Maple Valley also qualified for the state finals in the race with its fourth-place finish in 3:33.11. Calvin Christian had taken the lead heading Maple Valley’s Jessica Rushford races towards a runner-up finish in the 1600meter run during Friday’s Division 3 Regional Meet. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Delton Kellogg’s Andrea Polley takes off with the baton in the 800-meter relay during Friday’s Division 3 Regional Meet at Maple Valley High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Delton Kellogg’s Phoenix Pease takes off at the start of the 400-meter dash during Friday’s Division 3 Regional Meet at Maple Valley High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) into the final boys’ race thanks to its overwhelming advantage in the distance races. In the 3200-meter run, the Squires put runners in second, third, fourth, fifth and seventh place. The Squires also had runners place first, third, fourth and sixth in the 1600. The top two finishers in each race, and others who met the predetermined times and distances earned spots in the Division 3 State Finals, which will be held June 2 at Comstock Park High School. Maple Valley senior Garrett Reid qualified for the state finals in all four of his events. He was a part of the Lions’ 1600-meter relay team, won the long jump with a mark of 20 feet 5.75 inches, won the 100-meter dash in 11.60 seconds, and was second in the 200meter dash with a time of 23.52, behind West Catholic’s Joseph Harmon who finished in 22.85. Reid’s teammate Keegan Yost is headed to the state finals in both the throws. He won a regional championship in the shot put with his mark of 48-1.5, and finished fourth in the discus with a throw of 135-11.5. Delton Kellogg didn’t have a regional champion, but piled up enough points to finish fourth on the day. Behind West Catholic and Calvin Christian, Muskegon Oakridge was third with 95.5 points, followed by Delton Kellogg 80.5, Maple Valley 67, Kent City 58, Saranac 51.5, Bloomingdale 27, Hopkins 23, Muskegon Heights 16.5, NorthPointe Christian 6 and Fennville 2. Delton’s Watson qualified for the state finals in three events, placing second in the high jump by clearing 5-11 and with a qualifying time of 2:02.19 in his fourth-place finish in the 800-meter run. Delton Kellogg’s Brandon Robbins qualified for the state finals with his runner-up time of 16.01 in the 110-meter high hurdles. That race was won by Oakridge’s Cameron Jowers in 15.88. Jowers also won the 300meter intermediate hurdles in 40.24, a race in which Robbins placed third in 41.92. Jowers added a win with his teammates in the 800-meter relay, and a runner-up finish in the 400-meter relay for Oakridge. Delton Kellogg was third, with a state qualifying time of 1:33.02 in the 800-meter relay with the team of Nick Brindley, Phoenix Pease, Wolschleger and Adam May. Pease just missed out on a couple of other Delton Kellogg’s Nick Brindley (right) gets the baton in to the hands of Brandon Robbins during the first exchange in the 400-meter relay Friday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) state finals berths, placing third in the 400 in 52.59 and fifth in the 200 in 24.04. Maple Valley’s girls were sixth and the Delton girls seventh in their competition Friday. Hopkins won the girls’ championship with 137 points, followed by West Catholic 130, Saranac 85, Kent City 77.5, Calvin Christian 74, Maple Valley 52.5, Delton Kellogg 51, Muskegon Heights 13, Wyoming Lee 11, NorthPointe Christian 10, Muskegon Oakridge 9, Bloomingdale 2 and Fennville 1. Maple Valley and Delton Kellogg both have one girl going to the state finals in two individual events. Delton’s Andrea Polley qualified for the finals in the 100-meter hurdles with her thirdplace time of 17.02 and the 300-meter low hurdles with a runner-up time of 48.97. West Catholic’s Libby Schichtel won both hurdles races, taking the 100-meter event in 16.01 and the 300 in 48.68. Polley’s teammate Jolen Drum is headed to the state finals in the 800-meter run, after a fifth-place finish in 2:27.40 in the event. She’ll be joined in that race at the finals by Maple Valley’s Jessica Rushford, who was fourth in 2:25.99. Rushford also qualified for the finals in the 1600-meter run with a time of 5:14.99. Polley and Drum also teamed up with Alicia Lindsey and Nikki Thompson to earn a spot in the state finals in the 1600-meter relay. The Delton Kellogg foursome was third in that race with a time of 4:19.22. The only other Lion headed to the finals is freshman pole vaulter Jadelyn Stewart, who was third at 8-10. Schichtel also won that event, clearing 11-7. The Delton and Maple Valley girls put together a number of solid performances in the field. In the discus, the Lions’ Zoanne Siple was fourth at 96-0 and Delton’s Adrianna Culbert sixth at 87-8.5 Delton Kellogg’s Mallory Sewell was third in the shot put with a throw of 32-5. West Catholic’s Kendra Meyers won both throws, taking the discus at 136-11.5 and the shot put at 37-3. In the long jump, Maple Valley had Alicia Ramsey third at 15-5.5 and Hadley Joppie sixth at 14-4.5. Delton Kellogg’s Katie Hayward was fourth in that event at 15-1. The Lions’ also had McKayla Lamance tie for third in the high jump by clearing 4-8. Hastings baseball sixth in Gold with one to play 77567940 The Saxons will hope for better on Monday. Hastings’ varsity baseball team travels to Ada to take on Forest Hills Eastern in its annual Salute to Veterans Memorial Day game. The Hawks took the first two games of their three-game O-K Gold Conference set in Hastings Monday, topping the Saxons 12-1 and 6-1. Forest Hills Eastern put game one away early, building a 7-0 lead through three innings. The Saxons struggled at the plate throughout the opener and managed only four hits off Eastern pitching. Mitchell Kolanowski would have two singles to lead the Saxons with Devin Greenfield and Ethan Mahmat getting the other hits in the game. Nicholas Replogle (5-4) started and took the loss for the Saxons. Forest Hills Eastern took an early lead again in game two, and Hastings’ Jake Swartz pitches for the Saxons went on to the 6-1 win. Monday evening against Forest Hills Eastern. The Hastings bats were cold (Photo by Perry Hardin) again, with singles by Tyler Stolicker and Greenfield the only hits for the Saxons. The Saxons will finish out the season in rally started by Kolanowski. He singled, stole second and third and came home on a throwsixth place in the O-K Gold Conference. That standing was helped by a sweep of ing error. The Saxons tacked on their final two runs Wayland last week. The Saxons closed out that three-game set in the top of the seventh. Swartz and Pierce had singles that started that rally. They both with a 5-1 win in Wayland Thursday. Travis Sixberry started for Hastings and moved up a base on a passed ball, and Keith went the first three innings, giving way to Garber drove home Pierce with a squeeze David Pierce (1-1) who would be credited bunt. Swartz then came home on a groundwith the win. Together they struck out eight out. Hastings won the two games 9-5 and 8-4 in on two hits, while walking three. Kolanowski, Michael Eastman and Jake Hastings last Tuesday. Hastings trailed the opener 5-1, before ralSwartz had two hits each for the Saxons, and Brandon Redman, Stolicker, Pierce and Jon lying for the 9-5 win. An RBI triple by French in the bottom of French had one each. All ten of those hits the sixth was the big hit in a four-run rally that were singles. Eastman had an RBI single in the top of the won it for the Saxons. French had a single in the game as well. first inning, which scored Kolanowski who led off with a single and moved around the Eastman had a triple and Garber, Stolicker, bases on a steal and a single from Redman. Swartz, Replogle and Greenfield had one hit Stolicker followed with a base hit that drove each as well. Stolicker, Swartz, Replogle and Greenfield all had RBIs. home Redman. Replogle worked his way through six Hastings upped its lead to 3-0 with another innings on the mound to earn the win, getting relief help from French. Hastings took the early lead in game two, jumping up 6-0 before winning 8-4. Kolanowski had a big game, with a triple, a single and an RBI. Swartz had two hits as well. French added a double and an RBI. Garber, Pierce and Greenfield also drove in runs for Hastings. In between the league sets with Wayland and Forest Hills Eastern, the Saxons visited Jenison Friday and suffered a 14-6 loss. Hastings had a short-lived lead in the game thanks to a five-run third inning which saw French get an RBI walk and Stolicker blast a three-run triple. The Wildcats blew open the contest with eight runs in the sixth inning. Stolicker led the Saxons with a double a single and four RBI. Kolanowski, Replogle, Greenfield and Mahmat had one hit each. The Saxons’ Devin Greenfield puts his bat on the ball during Monday afternoon’s doubleheader with Forest Hills Eastern in Hastings. (Photo by Perry Hardin) � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-05-30.pdf 99189d750868ff526d46747bb3cbeeec PDF Text Text County audit results in solid numbers Did we truly celebrate real meaning of Memorial Day? DK boys, HHS girls win county track titles See Story on Page 3 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 24 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 22 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, May 31, 2012 City’s new budget adds staff in three departments NEWS BRIEFS Free hearing and vision screening available The Barry-Eaton District Health Department will offer free hearing and vision screening clinics Monday, June 4, and again Monday, Aug. 20, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Approximately 3 million children reside in Michigan, more than 1 million of whom will need eye care by the time they reach high school graduation age. About 10,000 Michigan students enter school each year with inadequate vision. Vision and hearing screening is available through the Barry-Eaton District Health Department free of charge for infants through school-age children. Hearing and vision screening is required before entering kindergarten. The health department provides vision and hearing screening for all children of this age at school organized kindergarten roundups as well as at monthly clinics at the health department. Call 269-945-9516 to schedule an appointment. Fridays at the Fountain concerts return next week The summer concert series Fridays at the Fountain is set to begin June 8 and continue throughout the summer. The series is a joint venture of the Thornapple Arts Council and the City of Hastings which offers free outdoor concerts on the Barry County Courthouse lawn near the fountain from noon to 1:30 p.m. every Friday. In the event of rain, concerts will be in the community room on the lower level of Hastings City Bank, 150 W. Court St. The artist lineup for summer includes both the familiar and the new and features a wide variety of musical styles from bluegrass to steel drum, jazz to pop, and more. The first band to play at the concert series will be Sweet Grass, and new band comprised of familiar faces on the local music scene. Sweet Grass mixes traditional up-tempo bluegrass sound with gospel, country and folk music. Gull Lake area part of Kanoe the Kazoo The Four Township Water Resources Council will participate in Kanoe the Kazoo Saturday, June 9. The council will lead a guided nature tour of Three Lakes in Richland Township. These lakes are part of a tributary branch of the Gull Lake/Creek system. Participants will meet at the Three Lakes parking area on west side of 35th Street southwest of the village of Richland between 8 and 9 a.m. for registration and orientation. The paddle should be between 9 and noon. Participants must provide their own canoes or kayaks and gear. Sunscreen, insect repellent and personal floatation devices are recommended. Bottled water will be provided, but participants should bring their own snack, soft drinks or other food. To register or for more information email ftwrc@aol.com or call Kornheiser, 269-664-4426, during weekday work hours. by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Last year, the Hastings City Council approved the reduction full-time staff at the Hastings Fire Department and leaving a position in the Hastings City Police Department vacant to reduce costs. This year, the council was able to approve a budget that allows the city to fill the vacant position at the police department, add 16 hours for part-time personnel in the assessing department and add 20 hours a week for a part-time code enforcement officer position. Monday evening, the council held a public hearing on the proposed budget, during which no comments were received from the public, before it unanimously approved the 2012-13 budget. The approved budget will allow the city to maintain or exceed its minimum fund balance of $500,000 through 2013-14 and support the budget at the current 16.0174-mill levy. In his memorandum to the council, Hastings City Manager Jeff Mansfield said the 2012-13 budget and capital improvement plan will allow the municipality to provide and sustain its spectrum of services as it has done in the past, with no expected budget overages. “The pro-active steps taken by the city council in the past years to control costs are bearing fruit and allowing the city to live fairly comfortably within our means,” he said. In other business, the council: • Held a first reading on a ordinance that would amend regulations applying to handicap-access ramps. The proposed ordinance would rescind previously adopted general law access ramp ordinances and allow new ramps to encroach into yards under some conditions and would require an initial permit from the zoning administrator. City staff was directed to make some minor language changes in the proposed ordinance. The council will hold a second reading on the proposed ordinance during its next regular meeting scheduled for 7 p.m. Monday, June 11. • Held a public hearing on and then unanimously approved the 2012 downtown parking special assessment district to fund a portion of the maintenance cost for the downtown municipal parking lots. The Hastings Downtown Development Authority has again agreed to pay a portion of the cost of mainte- nance of the lots to keep the amount assessed to the property owners in the district at the same level as in previous years. • Approved a request from the Hastings Summerfest Committee to allow annual activities at various locations around the city Friday, Aug. 24, through Sunday, Aug. 26. Summerfest committee chairman Mike Hallifax said the only change from previous years would be the route for the grand parade, which will be one block shorter due to the construction on Broadway. • Heard from Matt Spencer about an injury his son received while riding his bike on one of the ramps at the city’s new skate park in the 1st Ward. The injury, which occurred in April, resulted in 17 stitches and was reportedly due to a screw sticking out of the ramp. Spencer said city employees agreed that the screw only protruded from the ramp when the metal was depressed by the weight of a biker or skateboarder. City officials said playground equipment in municipal parks is inspected once a month. However, since the incident in April, inspection sheets have been improved to be more specific to the type of equipment found in each park and the construction of the ramps is being improved to ensure that screws can be more securely fastened. • Approved a request from Hastings American Youth Soccer Organization representative Charles Ziny to allow the organization to use the soccer fields at Fish Hatchery Park during the fall soccer season. • Amended the fiscal year 2011-12 budget to allow the purchase of a replacement laptop computer for an employee at a cost of $2,500. • Approved the concept layout for the splash plaza as recommended by the DDA. The proposed splash plaza will be constructed on the vacant lot east of Hastings 4 Cinema. • Awarded a bid to Fillmore Equipment Inc. for a four-wheel drive compact utility tractor in an amount not to exceed $37,345, as recommended by public services director Tim Girrbach. • Approved payment of $13,800 for a directional bore to complete the watermain project on Thorn Street. • Approved a resolution allowing dogs on leashes to be within 20 feet of the Riverwalk Trail within Tyden Park. Crowd packs meeting on fracking in Yankee Springs by Fran Faverman Staff Writer A large crowd filled the Yankee Springs township community hall to capacity on Tuesday to hear more about the controversial use of horizontal hydraulic fracturing, more commonly referred to as fracking, to release natural gas and oil from shale. The Payne Lake Homeowners Association along with members of various environmental action groups hosted the meeting at the invitation of Yankee Springs Township Supervisor Al McCrumb who had realized the amount of time that could be devoted to the topic at the township’s regular board meeting on May 10 was inadequate. Also at the meeting, representing the Orangeville Township Board of Trustees, was Robert Perino. The meeting format provided 20 minutes for each of three speakers with 10 minutes of followup questions from the audience. Thirty minutes was provided for a general question and answer period at the conclusion of the presentations from Mike Shelton, a field geologist with the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Christopher Grobbel, Ph.D., an environmental professional who has participated in clean-up programs, and James Olson, an attorney who specializes in environmental law. Shelton provided a brief overview of local geology likening it to a “cereal bowl," with the shale layer at the bottom of the bowl. He observed that vertical fracking has been practiced in Michigan for 60 years. According to Shelton, there are 29 or 30 such wells currently in operation in Barry County. Shelton commented on the Antrim shale layer which lies very close to the surface in Barry County, so close that the one-quarter mile distance needed for horizontal hydraulic fracking makes it financially infeasible at present prices for gas. In another shale layer, the Utica layer, the quality of the gas is very low making it even less feasible. Shelton said he has no idea why companies had bought leases in Barry County. The land is classified as nondevelopable, but companies can apply for drilling permits. State parks and certain natural areas are excluded. The state game area is under the jurisdiction of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and may have different rules. Responding to a question about where the revenues from leases go, Shelton said the current fund for grants is capped at $5 million and the remaining funds go to the state park funds. Shelton said there is no empirical evidence that fracking causes problems. Rather, the problems are caused by poor regulation. He cited West Virginia as a prime example where drilling is allowed at a distance of 100 feet from a residence. He noted that Michigan has much more stringent regulations limiting the amount of water that can be drawn down to serve the drilling process. Grobbel, mentioned that he is a former DEQ employee who works now with, primarily, environmental protection groups. Supplying statistics, Grobbel said there are 15,000 oil and 13,000 gas wells in Michigan with 20 percent of the gas mined used here while 80 percent goes elsewhere. The greatest number of leases sold in the recent auction were in Barry County. He supports banning fracking in the county. Grobbel believes that part of the permitting See FRACKING, page 7 Middleville teen pulled from fiery vehicle by David DeDecker Staff Writer A Middleville teen is recovering in a Kalamazoo hospital due to the quick action of bystanders after the vehicle in which she was riding caught fire Sunday afternoon. Jessica Eckhoff was in the back seat of a 1994 Jeep Cherokee when it was rear-ended by a man driving a 2008 Dodge Dakota pickup truck Sunday, May 27, around 12:45 p.m. on M-37 near Shaw Lake Road in Yankee Springs Township. The Jeep had reportedly been stopped to make a left turn onto Shaw Lake Road, when it was struck and soon burst into flames Two others in the Jeep, Liz Rogers and Tori Roth — all sophomores at Thornapple Kellogg High School — were able to escape the fiery vehicle, but Eckhoff reportedly was trapped. Karen Barnes was in her backyard weeding, and her husband was working in the garage when they heard a loud noise and then, according to Barnes, blood-curdling screams. “We came around the corner to see the Jeep engulfed in smoke and flames,” she told the Banner in a telephone interview. “Two girls were screaming there was still someone in the car, but there was so much smoke, you could hardly see her.” See CRASH, page 18 Wreath laying in Hastings Boy Scout Charles Surratt (foreground) prepares to lay a wreath on a monument at the Barry County Courthouse lawn during the Hastings Memorial Day parade. Also taking part in the ceremony are Girl Scout Madison McMasters (center) Cub Scout Leader Jason Flohr with son and Cub Scout Jeremiah (background). The ceremony was part of the parade in Hastings Monday morning. (Photo by Sandra Ponsetto) For more on the parade, see 2 �Page 2 — Thursday, May 31, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Hastings observes Memorial Day with parade The color guard from American Legion Post 45 stands at attention while Post Commander Jim Atkinson says a few words in honor of those who gave their lives defending the country. Members of the Hastings High School Marching Band Color Guard lead the band along the parade route. The Hastings High School Marching Band plays a medley of patriotic tunes. United States Marine Tom Straley holds the American flag during the wreath-laying ceremony at the Barry County Court House. Members of Boy Scout Troop 175 march in the Memorial Day Parade. A vintage pickup and the Hastings Fire Department ladder truck take part in the Memorial Day Parade. The route and the wreath-laying ceremony and speech may have been shorter due to traffic and road conditions resulting from construction on North Broadway, but the American Legion Post 45 of Hastings made sure that the men and women who have given their lives for their country and the veterans who have served the country were not forgotten. Crowds of people lined State, Church and Court streets and stood to honor the veterans and those who gave their lives in every American war. There was the traditional laying of wreaths at the veterans and war memorials, a brief speech by American Legion Post 45 commander Jim Atkinson and a 21-gun salute, prayer and moment of silence at the Barry County Courthouse lawn at the corner of Church and State streets before the parade resumed its course. The parade normally follows State Street to Broadway, pausing over the Thornapple River, and on to State Road, ending at the cemetery. Since the Michigan Avenue bridge is being replaced and the Broadway bridge is down to two lanes, the route followed State Street, but turned at the courthouse and followed Court Street back to the former Felpausch parking lot, where it had originated. Boy Scout Charles Surratt (foreground) prepares to lay a wreath on a monument at the Barry County Courthouse lawn during the Hastings Memorial Day parade. Also taking part in the ceremony are Girl Scout Madison McMasters (center) Cub Scout Leader Jason Flohr with son and Cub Scout Jeremiah (background). Max Troutman plays taps during the wreath-laying ceremony. The echo was played by fellow band member Abby Laubaugh. Friends of the Hastings Dog Park join in the Hastings Memorial Day Parade. Friends of the Hastings Dog Park join in the Hastings Memorial Day Parade. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 31, 2012 — Page 3 County audit turns up solid numbers and good words by Doug VanderLaan Editor The only oversight Barry County Commissioners could find in the stellar presentation of the 2011 financial audit report made by its accountant Rehmann Robson of Grand Rapids May 22 was with the man most directly responsible for it. “You minimize your own efforts too much,” began Commissioner Robert Houtman in compliments directed at County Administrator Michael Brown. “You have led this county, you have led this financial picture successfully. I’ve gone places in this state and people tell me ‘You’ve got one of the best county administrators around,’ and I say, ‘I know it and I’m grateful.’ So, thank you for your efforts in that regard.” Houtman’s comments followed an audit overview presentation by Stephen Blann, principal of government/nonprofit services for Rehmann, in which he termed the audit “clean and unqualified, the highest level of assurance that we can give during an external audit.” Blann did point out, however, two issues that, according to auditing rules, are “very picky” and which Brown later addressed with commissioners. “If we find things that are wrong — even if you agree to it and fix it, which has happened here — we have to tell you about it,” said Blann, who called the attention of commissioners to a pair of financial journal entries and a compliance issue noted by auditors. “One entry was the booking of the value of drain projects and the other was booking a payment to the pension program that you had made for 2012 that needed to be booked back [to 2011]. Both entries were easily fixed and have been done but, because of the dollar amounts involved happened to be large, we have to reduce it to writing, and that’s what we’ve done here in the report. “There’s no further corrective action necessary; everything’s been taken care of. Frankly, two journal entries for a job of your size is really nothing at all to be disappointed about.” On the compliance issue, Blann attributed the late filing of a federal report to a “picky timeline for when you file certain reports.” “You did the best you could. A couple of reports were a few weeks late and everything is caught up now. The good news is that ‘immaterial noncompliance’ does not even really count as an audit finding for future audits. This technically counts as a clean audit.” During his time to comment while giving the county administrator’s report Brown thanked Rehmann for its assistance in conducting the audit then circled back to take issue with the two areas identified, especially as they reflected on the efforts of his staff. “We had one comment, we were hopeful that we would have none because that’s what we always strive for,” Brown told commissioners. “My comment goes to the level of folks that you have administrating funds out there. They know what they’re doing, you have a good, hard-working group of departments who administer millions and millions of dollars on your behalf and on the public’s behalf. “I’m here to tell you that we went toe-totoe with our auditors in a professional manner to say, ‘we aren’t going to accept everything as is; we’re going to look into it.’ Curtis arraigned on criminal sexual conduct charges Chad Curtis, former Major League Baseball player and 1999 World Series standout who now resides in Lake Odessa, was arrested in Barry County on a warrant issued May 24. Curtis was arraigned on two charges of criminal sexual conduct, second degree; one count of criminal sexual conduct, third degree; and two charges of criminal sexual conduct, fourth degree. The allegations relate to his work at Lakewood High School where he was volunteering to work with student athletes in the weight room and where he worked as a substitute teacher. In January, Curtis was named the Vikings’ head football coach for the upcoming season. His association with Lakewood Public Schools has since been suspended and Curtis has issued a letter of resignation from his football position. Curtis, 43, has called Middleville home and is a former Caledonia teacher and coach. He was fired from his athletic director position at Northpointe Christian High School in Grand Rapids in 2009, with no public explanation. Curtis was arraigned Thursday at the Barry County Courthouse and his bond set at $250,000. After posting bond, Curtis was “It just shows the level of professionalism and knowledge that you have in the departments,” said Brown in explaining the delayed filing of the federal report, “and I think it’s important that you all hear that.” In other business, the board: • Received a copy of Michigan Constitutional Law 125.3205 from Chair Craig Stolsonburg regarding a county’s role in the regulation or control of hydraulic fracturing, more commonly known as fracking. Stolsonburg called the attention of commissioners to Section 205 of the law stating that “a county or township shall not regulate or control the drilling, completion, or operation of oil or gas wells or other wells drilled for oil or gas exploration purposes and shall not have jurisdiction with reference to the issuance of permits for the location, drilling, completion, operation, or abandonment of such wells.” Stolsonburg followed up with direct advice for those concerned about fracking in Barry County. “The public should contact Hal Fitch, supervisor of wells with the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, 517241-1548.” Stolsonburg was soon challenged during public comments by Prairieville Township resident and commission candidate from District 6 Mark Doster. “I think it’s accurate what you said,” said Doster of Stolsonburg’s reading of the excerpt, “but then it goes on to carve out some exemptions, as well, including if it can be shown that very serious consequences as a result of the fracturing of these natural resources results. “If this is something that we think could possibly happen here in Barry County, probably the county board of commissioners is the mechanism that we need to make some sort of recommendation or discussion to have some development solution.” • Approved a $4,500 bid to be paid from Community Development Block Grant funds for a new roof on a house at 11742 S. M-43 Highway in Delton. • Approved the targeting of three locations for 50 percent of the county allocation grant: the Village of Nashville, the community of GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. Chad Curtis released late Thursday afternoon. His preliminary examination is set for June 6. Delton and the City of Hastings. • Approved rezoning from mixed use to rural residential on two properties, one for Hophead Farms in Barry Township and the other for a mini-storage facility in Baltimore Township. • Approved a transfer of $5,000 within the community corrections budget to office supplies and a transfer of $14,788 to salary and benefits to complete the placement process for a GED instructor. • Approved payment of a renewal premium of $298,957 for liability, vehicle physical damage, and property and crime insurance. • Adopted amendments to the county address ordinance, allowing the change of approximately 2,000 duplicate addresses and existing street names to provide more accurate locations for emergency services and mail and package deliveries. • Approved two retirement program resolutions to correct the retirement benefit contribution rate for sheriff command officers as stated in the recently negotiated contract and to allow the transfer of individual service credit for meeting pension eligibility requirements for county employees who carry service credit time from other municipalities. • Received the announcement of Julie Nakfoor Pratt regarding her candidacy for the county prosecutor’s position. “I’ve lived in Hastings for 20 years and have 24 years of trial experience,” Pratt, who worked in the prosecutor’s office in Barry County before becoming assistant prosecutor in Allegan County, told commissioners, “but I also have a passion and a strong desire for leadership. I opened a private practice four years ago and feel that it’s a helpful gift to have a broad perspective.” First Presbyterian Church honors graduates, awards scholarships Posing for a photo after Sunday’s ceremony are (from left) Amy Kalkman, Dylan Johns, Keith Garber, Zack Zwiernikowski, Katy Etts, Francesca Zecchi, April Nicholson, Matilde Fagerland and Pastor Jeff Garrison. The First Presbyterian Church of Hastings honored its graduates Sunday, May 27. Seven students participated in the graduation service and reception: Katy Etts, Matilde Fagerland, Dylan Johns, Keith Garber, April Nicholson, Francesca Zecchi and Zack Zwiernikowski. Pastor Jeff Garrison delivered a special sermon geared toward the graduates and the decisions they will be making in the future. Each year, the church awards scholarships to its graduates during Hastings High School’s honors night ceremony, the Thursday before graduation. The scholarships are awarded based on grade point average, positive Christian character traits and involvement in the life of the church. Amy Kalkman, director of youth and young adult ministries, presented scholarships to April Nicholson, daughter of Cindy Preston, and Zack Zwiernikowski, son of Rick and Jill Zwiernikowski. New Car Loan 1.99% Interest 2.285% APR* Casey Goggins Rebecca Ponsetto HASTINGS Son of Dan & Missy Goggins CALEDONIA Le’Titia Vickery HASTINGS Daughter of Sandy and Michael Ponsetto Daughter of Tracey and Steve Vickery from We'll put you in the driver’s seat with a great loan rate! *Annual percentage rate. Car loan is subject to credit review and approval. Rates are subject to change. A Hastings City Bank checking account with direct deposit and automatic loan payment is required to obtain this rate. Maximum term is 66 months. Advertised rate is for model years 2011 and newer. Example: a $25,000 loan at 2.285% APR would have 66 monthly payments of $400.22. Contact any Hastings City Bank lender for other rates and terms available. Shirley “Kay” Raymond ASSOCIATE DEGREE CORNERSTONE UNIVERSITY 77567934 1351 N. M-43 Hwy. Hastings, MI 269-945-9554 1-888-422-2280 77568300 �Page 4 — Thursday, May 31, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Did we truly celebrate the real meaning of Memorial Day this past weekend? U.S. Marine Cpl. Josh Hoffman is a special guest during the Memorial Day parade and ceremonies in Middleville Monday. Hoffman, a native of Wayland, was the recipient of the first Michigan house built by Homes for Our Troops. The home, between Hastings and Middleville, was completed in 2009, with the help of friends, family, veterans and other volunteers. Hoffman took part in Monday’s parade and attended ceremonies at Mt. Hope Cemetery afterward. He is pictured here with driver Brenda Johncock (left), Lisa Courech and Rod Kenyon, a Korean War veteran and Middleville resident. (Photo by Patricia Johns) We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. We’ll select a photograph for publication each week and post the others to our website for all to enjoy. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Do you know? Do you know these people or recognize where the photo was taken? Was it at an animal shelter? A police dog training site? A private kennel? Do you know why the picture was taken? What can you tell us about this photo? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event to reunite the photos with their original clippings or identify photos that may never have been used. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, 49058; email news@j-adgraphics.com; or call 269-945-9554. Last week’s photo of a young pole vaulter was identified by his sister Maxine Jones. Pictured is Leland Christiansen, a 1948 graduate of Hastings High School, who now lives in Florida. According to Banner records, the photo ran in the April 25, 1946, issue. (The photo was taken during the Hastings Relays, which in 2012 marked its 75th anniversary and bears the title of the oldest continuous relays in the state.) The Have you May 30, 1946, Banner reported that Christiansen had placed fourth at the state track meet, with a vault of 10 feet, three inches. Reader and classmate Dick Groos said he remembered the track at Johnson According to Webster’s Dictionary, Memorial Day is a day on which we “remember the men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces.” Formerly known as Decoration Day, the celebration started after the American Civil War to commemorate Union soldiers who died in the war. Is this special celebration of the honor with which our military men and women served truly a heartfelt tribute, or has it just become a time to mark the beginning of summer, the end of a school year, and a blowout three-day weekend? Maybe the reason the holiday has lost some of its meaning is because we’ve been at war for as long as some of our children have been alive. They’ve known nothing else, so it’s become common in everyday life. For the rest of us, we get “war reports” with every newspaper or newscast, similar to another weather report or accident story. How long can we be expected to show our patriotism? Over the weekend, throughout our county and country people did gather along streets to watch parades with local bands, floats and military representatives faithfully marching to honor their nation. Others attended ceremonies in cemeteries where many gathered to honor those who served the nation and the freedoms we value. The special weekend also gives our political leaders a chance to promote their agendas for our military, our country and their ideas on how we’ve managed our efforts. “We have gone forth from our shores repeatedly over the last hundred years,” U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell said of America’s military in 2003, “and we’ve done this as recently as the last year in Afghanistan. We’ve put wonderful young men and women at risk — many of whom have lost their lives — and we have asked for nothing except enough ground to bury them in. “Otherwise, we have returned home to seek our own, to see our own lives in peace, to live our own lives in peace.” We have a great history of helping others seeking peace. Yet, our country has been accused of going to war to control Field being installed while he was in high school, so the leveling work in the back may have been preparation for or construction of the new track. met? Jacque Magdaleno is a college advisor at Delton Kellogg and Maple Valley high schools. She is part of the Michigan State University College Advising Corps. The corps is composed of recent MSU graduates who serve as advisors in high schools across Michigan. “We primarily serve low-income, firstgeneration and underrepresented students find their way to postsecondary education,” said Magdaleno. “As an advisor, I assist in helping students plan their college searches, complete admissions and financial aid applications, and enroll at schools that will serve them well.” In addition, she works with Navigate, the new Barry County College Access Network, the mission of which is to increase residents’ access to postsecondary education through increased knowledge of opportunities, assistance with admissions and help obtaining financial resources, said Magdaleno. Magdaleno made such an impression on seniors at Maple Valley, she has been chosen as the speaker for Friday night’s commencement ceremonies. For her enthusiasm for As a newly appointed college advisor life and influence on others Magdaleno has for high school students, Jacque been chosen as a bright light. Magdaleno has had a positive impact in a short amount of time on seniors at Delton Kellogg and Maple Valley. Favorite vacation destination: Chicago. Life motto: “The most important thing in life is people” father, “Believe what you believe and Favorite style of music: Country. believe it all the way.” Best advice ever received: is from my If you could choose a superpower it would be: being able to heal. Growing up I wanted to be: An architect and interior designer. A perfect day would be: Waking up on a sunny day and going for a long run, relaxing with a cup of coffee and a good book. Then lying out on a beach by Lake Michigan all afternoon. Finally, cooking a large dinner for friends and family to enjoy as the sun sets over the lake. I would like to meet: Actress Lauren Graham from my favorite TV Show “Gilmore Girls.” Favorite book: Little Women by Louise May Alcott. If I could visit another time and place: England in the 1900s. I would love to visit the amazing castles, wear the elegant dresses and ride in carriages. I think it would be refreshing to have no technology and rely solely on letters and telegrams as means of communication. I love mid-Michigan because: The people are so friendly and welcoming. Each week, The Banner profiles a person from the community working behind the scenes, whose efforts may not make headlines, but whose dedication makes Barry County shine. We’ll provide a quick peek each week at some of Barry County’s stars. Do you know someone who should be featured? Send information to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@jadgraphics.com. World War II veteran John Loftus of Irving Township addresses the crowd during a ceremony at the bridge over the Thornapple River in Middleville Monday. What do you lands rich in oil or to protect governments whose leaders are in favor of our country. It’s understandable, as we find ourselves in the longest active conflicts in our country’s history, that Americans have grown weary. Not only have we spent billions to maintain these battles, but also the future cost of these wars will continue to plague our country for years. Yet, the highest price that has been paid is the loss of so many of our sons and daughters, brothers and sisters, aunts and uncles, grandparents and friends. Only time will help heal these losses. Did the American people understand the true meaning of this past few days, or did it just become another fun-filled weekend where family and friends got together to enjoy the extra time off? It seems trite to think that we should enjoy our weekend when so many have given their lives or returned home maimed in some way from the rigors of war. But, that’s what freedom is all about. People attended parades and visited cemeteries, while many others gathered with friends and family members in backyards or at the beach for picnics and get-togethers to enjoy the freedoms we cherish. It’s imperative that we take the time to better understand the consequences. The war began to find and bring to justice leaders of al-Qaeda who threatened our nation with an attack on one of our country’s largest cities on Sept. 11, 2011. As expected, we came together to do what was necessary to hunt down and bring to justice those who threatened our country and its people. Yet, we continue to fight on with little or no hope in finding the answers to the necessity of war. We are a proud people with a history of protecting the values we’ve come to enjoy. But at a huge cost. According to experts, the cost of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars will be measured in the trillions — not to mention the thousands upon thousands who paid the ultimate price with their lives. It’s important that we take the time each year to celebrate and to memorialize the people who fought and gave their lives. But it should also be a time where we as a nation make a point to discuss what we can do in the future to avoid war. We should ask, are we spending enough time on diplomacy? Do we have the right people in place who are dedicated in dealing with the issues that lead us to war? In a speech that later came to be known as the “Powell Doctrine,” Powell asked relevant questions he felt should be answered before considering war: “Is the political objective we seek to achieve important, clearly defined, and understood? Have all other nonviolent policy means failed? Will military force achieve the objective? At what cost? Have the gains and risks been analyzed? How might the situation that we seek to alter, once it is altered by force, develop further and what might be the consequences?” Powell challenged our nation to go slowly. He acknowledged that most Americans deplore war. At the same time, he said, “every American realizes that in the challenging days ahead, our wishes are not likely to be fulfilled. In those circumstances where we must use military force, we have to be ready, willing and able. Where we should not use force, we have to be wise enough to exercise restraint. I have finite faith in the American people’s ability to sense when and where we should draw the line.” It seems to me that, with all the changes we’ve seen with technology in recent years, the world should come together with a better understanding and a tolerance for one another. We must find a way to make it work if we expect, as Powell suggested, “to see our own lives in peace.” think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. Feel Free to leave an opinion or comment. Last week’s question: On a holiday during which we honor veterans, do you plan to attend a Memorial Day observance? 92% 8% Yes No Fred Jacobs, vice president, J-Ad Graphics For this week: The Hastings Public Library will be celebrating the fifth anniversary of its new building on East State Street, beginning June 7. Has the new library — built exclusively with private donations — been a good investment for the community? q q YES NO �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 31, 2012 — Page 5 Laws, justice should be followed equally Trucks with diesel particle traps debated To the editor: I sent a recent letter regarding the Darwin award presentation trucks, which are diesel trucks equipped with particle traps, that are supposed to reduce lampblock particles in the air. Unfortunately, such incidents as spruce, pine and fir tree forest fires, bombed oil wells and pipelines, house fires with asphalt shingles and vinyl siding, and other phenomena of a similar nature make particles from diesel transportation, cultivation and construction vehicles insignificant in percentage. However, in my previous letter I was perhaps too critical of the ability of such equipped trucks to stall and present a traffic obstruction which requires a large dieselequipped towing vehicle to remove. A eugenicist friend of mine believes this offsets, to some degree, modern society’s efforts to preserve, protect and reproduce incompetents. In the eugenicist’s opinion, reducing the number of the inattentive incompetents is societally beneficial. I must admit I did not consider that opinion when I expressed my negative perception of diesel particle traps. It was my belief that anything that interferes with transportation and the safety and reliability of transportation is societally harmful. Although the eugenicist’s argument is academically entertaining, it has not changed my mind. Frederick G. Schantz, Hastings Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. The Hastings work therein. When our judicial system becomes flawed, the effects on the citizens are many. A flawed judicial system fails everyone in our community, from taxpayers to the people accused of crimes, thereby endangering the safety of the entire community. With the county budget again facing restrictions and the prospect of future deficits, or at the best a county budget that cannot afford to throw away hard-earned taxpayer dollars on a defective judicial system, that increases judicial costs above and beyond what they should be and is inadequate, leading to false convictions and findings of law that result in the people of Barry County being denied their lawful day in court. Innocent men and women are convicted for crimes that they either did not commit or are not guilty of. When an innocent person goes to jail, the real criminal is still endangering society. Whenever a prosecutor puts himself above the law, there is no justice. Now is the time to elect a prosector who will enforce the laws of our state equally, to each and every person who comes before the court. The only way to change this situation and for your voice to be heard is to stand up for what you believe in by voting for whoever you think would be the best person for the job. Arnold Histed, Adrian It’s time for sheriff to give up the leash To the editor: In his opinion piece in the May 24 Banner, Fred Jacobs wrote about the need for the animal shelter to be placed under its own director who would answer to the county board or county executive. I think he got it right this time — that is the way to resolve the issue of poor management that has plagued the shelter for the past seven to eight years. It is time to remove Animal Control from the sheriff’s department and have it run by a full-time working director who would be involved in all aspects of the operation. Generally, over the years, I have had few occasions when I agreed with Jacobs and his writings; this is not one of them. I appreciate your commitment to putting this issue where it should be — in front of the taxpayers and in the hands of the county commission to fix the problem. Banner Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Helen Mudry • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 77568276 Frederic Jacobs This latest scandal involving the administrative office ‘misplacing’ a financial warning from Barry Intermediate School District leads me to ask the same questions again: How can long-sitting members on this school board escape responsibility by being isolated and apparently aloof, yet remain in place? Where was their oversight in the latest financial meltdown? With all the carnage that has taken place over the past several years, are these the people you would want to be the public face of our once proud district? My answer is no. Many folks who gave their working careers to build this district just shudder these days and view these board members with scorn and disdain for not having the decency to step down for what has taken place, without proper oversight, while they held positions of socalled public trust. What’s next? Larry Gibson, Charlotte, Retired Hastings teacher GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. To the editor: If I could vote, I would vote for Julie Nakfoor-Pratt. I can’t vote because I sit in Barry County Jail an innocent man. The present prosecutor’s office raised and added charges until I was facing 53 years and 180 days for something I didn’t do. One of the charges threatened was for breaking a restraining order by talking to the alleged victim (my wife). They pulled audio tapes from the jail phones as evidence. On these tapes, the victim states several times that I’m innocent and that the prosecutor’s office has threatened perjury charges if she changes her story (in so many words). I was forced to take a plea. I wish I had stayed in Iraq; enemy recognition was easier. Robert Hugh Simmons, Hastings Hastings Banner, Inc. President To the editor: Here it is again, the school year ends with gigantic thuds in the Hastings school district. Just when I think the abyss had already been reached, the district sinks even further, if possible. Let’s go back to the premise that I believe started the death spiral more than four years ago: Closing Pleasantview Elementary School will save $325,000 and solve all problems. Have they saved that amount? The answer is no — not by a long shot. Now, they have just given away the Pleasantview school for less than one cent on the dollar in an attempt to wash their hands from the stain of this tragic move four years ago. We all know the list of what followed: the ‘retirement book scandal’ and the termination settlement with the former superintendent of schools, costing thousands and thousands of dollars. Add to this the mass exodus of former Pleasantview students who continue to cost the district hundreds of thousands dollars more. Innocence not accepted A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 John Jacobs Board is accountable for district’s continued woes Ron Neil, Hastings Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV 77568278 beneficial to his agenda. By misconstruing and misapplying the laws he has essentially denied citizens of Barry County their fair day in court. Because of facts that have come to the public’s attention recently, every case that Tom Evans has prosecuted should be considered suspect at best, and may need to be relitigated at the expense of Barry County residents. In order to protect the civil and constitutional rights of all citizens of Barry County, justice must be dispensed fairly by enforcing the laws that govern our judicial system equally to one and all. The safety of every citizen in our county depends on the integrity of our judicial system and the elected officials who www.river-ridge.biz 07600542 To the editor: I am writing this in response to all the recent articles concerning the Barry County Prosecutor’s Office. It would seem that the prosecutor has a problem following the very laws he was elected to uphold. When campaigning for office, he said he would uphold and enforce the laws he now finds impossible to abide by himself; his idea of enforcement seems selective, at best. This can be determined by not only how he interprets and applies the laws to the people of Barry County, but also to himself. It seems by his actions that he believes the laws and rules that govern everyone else do not apply to him. He chooses not to follow them if they are not �Page 6 — Thursday, May 31, 2012 — The Hastings Banner GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. Worship Together… Area Obituaries Lester R. Yonkers Jimmie Lou Kroes Diane Lois Chaffee 77568181 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. CHURCH OF THE LIVING GOD A full gospel church. 1240 W. State Rd., Hastings. Pastor Doug Davis. 269-948-9740. Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study 6 p.m. Sunday School and Youth Group for all ages. Come and worship the Lord with us! . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. ORANGEVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH 6921 Marsh Rd., 2 miles south of Gun Lake, Plainwell. Phone 269664-4377. OrangevilleBaptist.org. Pastors Dan Bowman and Adam Parmenter. Sundays - 9:45-10:45 a.m. Sunday school classes for age 2 through adults; 11 a.m. Summer messages: “God’s Ten Words For a Vital Spiritual Life” (The Ten Commandments); 5:30 p.m. Teen Word of Life Club; 6 p.m. “Guard the Gospel” A study of 2 Timothy. Wednesdays - 7 p.m. prayer; 8:30 p.m. Men’s Bible Study. MondayFriday - July 9-13 - 9:30 a.m.-noon, Vacation Bible School, age 5-7th grade with Uncle Al Torres - RBM Minstries. Sunday, July 15 - Guest speaker, Dr. Eldon Stevens. Sunday, August 19 - Summer concert. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Rev. Ryan Wieland. Sundays - 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Service; Sunday School and Nursery available during both services (Summer Schedule - Adult Sunday School: 9 a.m., Worship & Children’s Programs 10 a.m.) Youth Group, Covenant Prayer, Choir, Chimes, Praise Band, Quilting Group, Community Breakfasts and more! Call the church office at (269) 721-8077 (M/W/F 9 a.m.-12 p.m.), e-mail office@mei.net or visit www.countrychapelumc.org <http://www.countrychapelumc.org/> for more information SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 . LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. HASTINGS REFORMED CHURCH “A Historic Reformed Community.” Sunday morning services begin at 10 a.m. Meeting at the Barry County Commission on Aging building, 320 W. Woodlawn Ave., Hastings. Pastor: Peter Adams. 616-690-8609 padams@juno.com. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 9:15 Contemporary Worship, 10:30 a.m. Refreshments, 11 a.m. Traditional Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Youth Pastor, Eric Gillespie. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. for children and youth, and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Junior & Senior High Youth Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Mid-Week Pioneers and adult classes return in September. Thursday: Senior Adult Bible Study at 10 a.m. and lunch at Wendy’s, 11:30 a.m. Vacation Bible School: Wed. & Thurs., July 25 & 26, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Sunday, June 3 - Worship at 8 and 10:45 a.m. June 2 - Youth Group going to Blast Factory in Grand Rapids at 11 a.m. June 3 - Quarterly Mission Ingathering. Graduation Reception after 2nd Service. Men’s AA at 7 p.m. June 4 - Pennock Hospice at 5-8 p.m. Spiritual AA at 7:30. June 5 - Shepherd Committee Meeting at 2 p.m. Brother of Grace Dinner Outing at 6:30. Worship Committee at 7 p.m. June 6 - Sarah Circle Dinner Outing at 6 p.m. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 945-2645, fax 269945-2698. Pastor Amy Luckey. http://www.discover-grace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service; 6 p.m. Adult Small Group. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www. firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot.com. Thursday - 6:30 p.m. Choir Rehearsal; 7 p.m. Church Softball Practice. Friday - 9 a.m. Pickleball; 9 a.m. Golfer’s Group Meets. Saturday - 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday - 4 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Tuesday - 6:30 p.m. Church Softball Game. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball; 6:30 p.m. Financial Peace University. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Fiberglass Products Lauer Family Funeral Homes 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 LAKE ODDESA, MI - Lester R. Yonkers, age 94, of Lake Odessa, passed away Saturday, May 26, 2012 at his residence. He was born January 12, 1918 in Gaines Township the son of James and Amelia (Kotesky) Yonkers. Lester married Virginia Goodsell on August 18, 1939. He was employed as an electrician and worked at Lake Odessa Machine Products followed by 32 years of service with General Motors before his retirement. Lester was a member of the Sunfield United Brethren Church, member of the Lake Odessa Historical Society, founding member of the Lakewood Choral Society, past member of the Lake Odessa Lions Club, served as Grand Marshall of the Lake Odessa Fair, former 4-H and Cub Scout Leader. He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Tom Yonkers; grandchildren, Angela Coates McDiarmid and Chris Yonkers; siblings, Edward Yonkers, Violet Miller, Esther McVay and Irving Yonkers. Surviving is his loving wife of nearly 73 years, Virginia Yonkers; daughters, Kay (Gary) Coates and Judy (George) Johnson; son, Jerry (Jan) Yonkers; 14 grandchildren; many great grandchildren and two great great grandchildren; daughter-in-law, Terri Yonkers Hildebrand; sister-in-law, Helen Waite. Funeral services for Lester will be conducted at 1 p.m. Thursday, May 31, 2012 preceded by one hour of visitation, at Sunfield United Brethren Church, 8436 Grand Ledge Hwy., Sunfield with Pastor George Speas and Pastor Randy Carpenter, officiating. Interment will follow at Lakeside Cemetery, Lake Odessa. Memorial contributions in Lester’s name may be directed to the Sunfield United Brethren Church, 8436 Grand Ledge Hwy., Sunfield, MI 48890 or Angela Coates McDiarmid Scholarship Fund. To share a memory of Lester, please visit www.koopsfc.com. Arrangements made by Koops Funeral Chapel, Lake Odessa. Tari Linn Sherk DELTON, MI - Jimmie Lou Kroes, of Delton, age 84, passed away May 26, 2012 at her home. Jimmie Lou was born September 6, 1927 in Clarks, LA. She was the daughter of James and Inez (Colquette) Pierce. Jimmie Lou moved to the Kalamazoo area in the 1930s and graduated from Western State High School in Kalamazoo and briefly attended Western Michigan Normal School before marrying Leonard Kroes in 1947. The couple moved to the Delton area shortly thereafter and had five children. Jimmie Lou loved to garden, sew, cook, fish and bowl, all of which she did well into her 70s and beyond. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother and will be greatly missed by her family and friends. Jimmie Lou was preceded in death by her husband Leonard on April 30, 2008 and by her eldest son, Larry, on July 2, 2011. Jimmie Lou is survived by four children, Harriet (Rick) Olson of Delton, Rod (Gay Fournier) Kroes of Battle Creek, Jeff Kroes of Leesburg, VA, and Melanie (Ric Cooper) Kroes-Cooper of Delton; grandchildren, Stefanie (Bert) Booy of Mattawan, Joshua (Martha) Olson of Niles, Eli Kroes and Lily Kroes of Kalamazoo, Alison and Ryan Kroes of Leesburg, VA, Beth (Corey) Shull of Columbus, OH, and Jessica and Cassandra Cooper of Delton; great grandchildren, Vanessa and Lorna Booy, Sydney, Chelsea and James Olson. There will be a gathering for family and friends at the Williams-Gores Funeral Home, 133 E. Orchard St., Delton, on Friday, June 1, 2012, from 5-7 p.m. Memorial contributions can be made to the Barry Community Foundation, 231 S. Broadway St., Hastings, MI 49058, Tel: 269945-0526 or online at www.barrycf.org. Please visit www.williamsgoresfuneral.com. to view Jimmie Lou's online guest book or to leave a condolence message for the family. HASTINGS, MI - Diane Lois Chaffee, age 53, of Hastings, passed away Wednesday, May 23, 2012 at Pennock Hospital in Hastings. She was born April 5, 1959 in Grand Rapids, the daughter of Richard and Lois (Gardner) Slater. Diane attended Thornapple Kellogg High School, graduating in 1977. She married her soulmate, Mike Chaffee on March 7, 1981. Diane worked as a CSR technician at Pennock Hospital. She was an avid reader, especially the Harry Potter series. Diane loved spending time with her family. She enjoyed caring for her grandchildren and watching her grandchildren in their sporting events. Diane enjoyed family gatherings and cookouts. She was preceded in death by her father, Richard J. Slater and son, Michael Clarence Richard Chaffee. Diane is survived by her husband, Michael C. Chaffee; daughters, Mackenzie (Adam) Pierce and Meagan (Houston) Malone; four grandchildren, Hailey, Hunter, Emma and Shelby; mother Lois Slater; sisters, Deborah (Dave) Sherman and Brenda Slater; brother, Richard J. (Tonya) Slater III; brothers and sisters-in-law, Gordon and Sue Wilkins, Bruce and Terry Newton, Jerry and Cindy Chaffee; and many nieces and nephews. Memorial contributions may be made to Michael C. Chaffee, 3805 River Rd., Hastings, MI 49058 to help cover medical expenses. Funeral services were held Saturday, May 26, 2012 at 11 a.m. at Girrbach Funeral Home. Rev. Jerry Chaffee, officiating the service. Burial at Hastings Township Cemetery. Raymond L. Aspinall Henning; her grandchildren, Alexis and Anekin Henning and Gracie Meek; parents, Aaron and Jane Sherk; sister, Brenda Woodard; nephews, nieces, aunts, uncles, cousins; special friends, Annette Dunklee and family, cat, Sammy and many friends. Tari will be greatly missed and treasured in our memories forever. A remembrance gathering will be held Saturday, June 2, 2012 from 1 until 3 p.m. at the Hastings Moose Lodge, 128 N. Michigan, Hastings. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a message or memory for the family. NASHVILLE, MI - Raymond L. Aspinall, age 77, of Nashville, passed away Tuesday, May 29, 2012 at Pennock Hospital in Hastings. Funeral services will be held at the Daniels Funeral Home in Nashville, at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 2, 2012, with Pastor Rob Van Engen officiating. The family will receive visitors Saturday June 2, one hour prior to the funeral service beginning at 10 a.m. at the Daniels Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers the family has asked that memorial contributions be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Funeral services have been entrusted to the Daniels Funeral Home in Nashville. Please visit our website at www.danielsfuneralhome.net for further details. Ray L. Girrbach Owner/Director HASTINGS, MI - Tari Linn Sherk, age 50, of Hastings passed away May 29, 2012 at Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids. She was born in Hastings, the daughter of Aaron and Jane (Lake) Sherk. Tari worked at different jobs from child care to nurses aide, retail to factory work. A multi-talented girl she was. Her favorite thing in life was spending time with her family, every moment was priceless. In the summer she’d dig in the dirt and worship the sun. In the winter she loved to go snowmobiling. A day on her sled was a day well led! She also enjoyed taking a break from the chill, hopping a plane, heading to southern Florida and spending some quality time with her folks, sister and most recently, Auntie M. Tari was a member of the Wayland snowmobile club and served on the board as their secretary. Tari is survived by her forever love, Jeff Henning; sons, Mitchell (Briana Yarger) Henning and Brandon (April Meek) 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 • 269-945-3252 Serving Hastings, Barry County and Surrounding Communities for 45 years •Traditional and Cremation Services •Pre-Planning Services •Large Parking Lot - Handicap Accessible •Serving All Faiths •Pre-arrangement Transfers Accepted Family Owned and Operated www.girrbachfuneralhome.net �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 31, 2012 — Page 7 Newborn Babies Lainey Grace, born at Pennock Hospital on May 14, 2012 at 8:21 p.m. to Rikki McMellen and Duane Windes II of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 6 ozs. and 19 1/2 inches long. ***** Aliyah Nikohl, born at Pennock Hospital to Shyanne Mays and Cody Ward of Nashville. ***** Tyler Lee, born at Pennock Hospital on May 15, 2012 at 11:18 a.m. to Leah Allen and Stephen Salsbury of Nashville. Weighing 9 lbs. 8 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Lillyona Dee, born at Pennock Hospital on May 13, 2012 at 9:41 p.m. to Cassandra and Colt Baker of Vermontville. Weighing 6 lbs. 3 ozs. and 19 inches long. ***** Olivia Frankie-Rareigh, born at Pennock Hospital on May 17, 2012 at 8:31 p.m. to Joe and Carrie Burns. Weighing 10 lbs. 7 ozs. ***** Aerolyn Adisen, born at Pennock Hospital on May 18, 2012 at 8:05 a.m. to Michele McKee and Brandon Krouse of Nashville. Weighing 6 lbs. 6 ozs. and 19 inches long. ***** Zane Joseph, born at Pennock Hospital on May 17, 2012 at 4:53 a.m. to Claire Trzasko. Weighing 6 lbs. 1 oz. and 18 1/2 inches long. ***** Marriage Licenses Joseph Matthew Stires, High Bridge, NJ and Sarah Marie Glahn, High Bridge, NJ. Jay Shannon Veltman, Wayland and Amber Rae Bouck, Wayland. Timothy Glen Leach, Nashville and Sara Linee Joppie, Vermontville. Nathan David Griswold, Middleville and Amy Michelle Lamb, Middleville. Tyler Joseph Bond, Goshen, IN and Brandy Shane Joiner, Elkhart, IN. David John Hager, Middleville and Karen Jeannine Bartels, Haslet. Brandon Michael Williams, Bellevue and Kay Marie Carlton, Bellevue. Skyler Andrew Hopkins, Battle Creek and Kristyn Annette Norris, Delton. Michael Todd Beach, Bellevue and Shawna Lynn Seiler, Bellevue Andrew Kim Sager, Delton and Jessica Jean Peterson, Schoolcraft. James Luther Withiem, Hastings and Patricia Haroldeen McCollum, Hastings. Timothy ray Dickinson, Woodland and Donna Jean Peterson, St. Johns. Timothy Lee Tramel, Delton and Toysa Angel Rogers, Delton. Chad Emerson Belle, Chicago, IL and Susan Elizabeth Roudabush, Chicago, IL. FRACKING, continued from page 1 process should be an environmental impact study that would assess the likely potential for damage from spills before they occur. He said the DEQ and the gas industry were in lock-step with each other. He observed spills can happen due to human error and metal corrosion as well as other factors. In considering the impact on the environment, Grobbel said he would include the level of noise, the volume of truck traffic removing fracking fluid to a disposal site, odors, and air pollution as well as other hazards created by the chemicals used in the process. The content of the fracking solution is required to be made public but companies maintain that this information is proprietary or a trade secret and exempt from disclosure requirements. Grobbel suggested communities can require special use permits not for the land but for the equipment used in the process and can impose requirements for the collection of gas released in the process rather than burning it off. Grobbel does not buy the industry claims that such measures at a cost of $100,000 per well are too expensive. "Talk to an attorney before you sign any lease," was Grobbel’s final advice to the audience. Olson began his presentation with an historical review of common law as it applies to land. In his view, regulation needs to be ratcheted up and that recent court decisions in Michigan have set the state back. Land is a public trust. A recent State Court of Appeals decision in the Nestle Ice Mountain water case in Mecosta County changed the status of land and water as a public trust by introducing the notion of "Talk to an attorney before you sign any lease." Christopher Grobbel, Ph.D., greater economic benefit as overriding the public trust. Olson said that energy, food, and water are undivided and cited two factors: one, hunger drives the desire to find energy and, two, China has made significant land purchases and has a significant interest in the Devon Energy Company. A distressing development for Olson is the fact that, at recent auctions, farmers in California were outbid for water rights by energy companies. A major concern for Olson is the failure of the DEQ to order and to enforce clean-up provisions. He cited the case of an organic farmer whose certification was revoked because of the presence of crude oil. It took a court case to force the DEQ to do the clean-up that was required. The DEQ should be required to insist upon a development plan. Some of Olson’s recommendations for communities and for individuals include the use of strategic lawsuits. While the location of a well is exempt from zoning ordinances, the development of local ordinances can provide policing of the traffic, noise, and other hazards. Special use permits may be used to control the activities and protect the health, safety and general welfare. Communities can create local advisory boards for oil and gas and to work with the DNR and DEQ. The remainder of the meeting was devoted to questions from the audience. To the question of who is responsible for notifying owners of accidents, Shelton said there is no requirement for notifying owners, but the DEQ and the company would notify owners as part of the permitting process. Another resident prefaced her remarks saying that the tenor seemed to suggest oil companies cannot be trusted. Shelton replied that inspectors aren't there every day but every three or four days. He noted that he has three people to cover a 16-county area. He agreed there should be more personnel. A third question referenced the political distribution of 64 Republicans and 40 Democrats in the state House of Representatives and asked if Republicans would be receptive to regulation. When the laughter died down, Olson responded that, in the 1970s, Michigan had a balanced approach to regulation and that the state has since gone backwards. Townships respond, but do not have authority to ban fracking Laura Lykins to celebrate 85th birthday Happy 85th birthday to Laura Lykins on June 6, 2012. If you’d like to send a card to help Laura celebrate you may send it to: 5282 Thornapple Lake Road, Nashville, MI 49073. The headline on the front page of the May 24, Hastings Banner stated the “Yankee Springs and Orangeville townships ban fracking” and the first paragraph of the article also gives the distinct impression that these two townships have banned fracking. This is an overstatement, said Dr. Kenneth Kornheiser, of Prairieville Township. Townships in Michigan do not have the authority to ban fracking, he pointed out in a letter to the Banner. The township boards in Yankee Springs and Orangeville approved motions urging the county and state legisla- tures and the governor of Michigan to take action. “I am concerned that folks in those two townships will believe that the job is done and the township boards have effectively eliminated potential problems with fracking within those townships,” Township resolutions do carry some weight as statements of local intent, but citizens who have concerns must continue to ask their legislators and the governor to investigate, listen to the concerns of their constituents and properly act to protect Michigan property rights, citizen health and environmental well being.” At least five bills seeking to create more transparency, protections and regulatory oversight on fracking were introduced into the Michigan House of Representatives in the fall of 2011. They are House Bills 4736, 5149, 5150, 5151 and 5565. A recent check on the official Michigan House of Representatives website, www.legislature.mi.gov, showed essentially no action since introduction. “If you have concerns, don’t assume that the township governments can ban fracking. Contact your state legislators,” he said. Trolley Around Town FREE TROLLEY RIDES Ride downtown for dinner, view the new sculptures, shop, get some ice cream, have coffee or drinks, visit the park... Fridays from 6pm to 10pm Now thru August 17 201 S. JEFFERSON ST., HASTINGS (corner of Jefferson & Court St.) 269-945-0100 The City of Hastings will be the venue this summer for the newest Trolley route. Every Friday night, now through August 17, the Trolley will ring through the streets from 6pm to 10pm. Catch it at any of the schools in the city limits, any city park, and other designated stops, or just flag it down on its route. All rides FREE compliments of the local businesses listed here. 269.945.3412 312 E. Court St., Hastings Look to us for all your jewelry, watch and clock repairs. Gilmore Jewelers 102 E. State Street In the Heart of Hastings RESTAURANTE 269-945-9572 945-4403 • 131 South Jefferson, Hastings www.gilmorejewelers.com HOURS: Mon. - Thurs. 11-8; Fri. 11-9; Sat. 11-8:30; Sun. 12-3 Join us on Facebook 1120 West Green, Hastings 945-4174 • Live Music • Outdoor Dining Browse through our site: www.countyseatlounge.com 128 South Jefferson St. Downtown Hastings 269-945-2401 269.948.4042 150 W. Court St., Hastings, MI 49058 Est. 1983 • comfortably, sophisticated ambiance • unique flavor combinations • enviable wine list • signature cocktails • unrivaled coffees 150 W. State St. • Downtown Hastings • 269.948.9222 SeasonalGrille.com Thank you Barry County Transit would like to thank the City of Hastings, and the sponsoring merchants for their help in making this service possible. 77568178 945-3405 404 E. Woodlawn Ave. Hastings, MI 49058 �Page 8 — Thursday, May 31, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of by Elaine Garlock Graduation has come and gone for the class of 2012. The Ionia County Genealogical Society will meet Saturday, June 9, at 1 p.m. at the Freight House on Emerson Street between the two apartment houses. There will be a program and the library will be open until 5 p.m. to benefit any researchers. The deadline for applicants for the 2012 class of First Families is Sept. 1, so it is wife for applicants to get their help now for completion of their information. Summer hours are now in effect at Central United Methodist Church. Services are at 9:30 a.m. Pastor Eric Beck will preach his final sermon Sunday, June 10. He will be having vacation time for the following two weeks and go to his new church assignment in Jackson by July 1. The incoming pastor Rev. Karen Sorden will likewise fill the pulpit at Central July 1 and be moved into the parsonage by then. She has served her first appointment for the past seven years in Baldwin. The Friday evening program at the museum was well attended for the annual tribute to veterans. New inductees to the hall of fame were Brandon Shade and William Haskins. Their families were well represented. Their uniforms and other memorabilia from World War II were on display in the lobby, along with those of previous inductees. The main room of the museum had displays from all previous wars from the story of the Frank twins, Julia Russell and Elizabeth Demeray who were Daughters of the Revolution to those of young men who were in Iran, Iraq, Vietnam, Afghanistan and the Gulf War. Also there were ample souvenirs of World War I and the Spanish-American War, as well as the Civil War. Refreshments were served to the more than 50 who attended There was an open house Sunday and Monday for those who returned for a second viewing or maybe a third. Saturday the museum had yet another emphasis when Stanton Strickland was honored and presented his hard-earned meals from World War II. His stepchildren, Carolyn Mayhew and Robert Durkee and their families were present. The attendance was so great there was standing room only for the program, which included Historical Society President John Waite, State Rep. Michael Callton, State Sen. Judy Emmons, John Yonkers, Rev. George Speas, and the honoree, Mr. Strickland. Others were Rev. Joel Strickland, Lt. Col. Jason Awadi and Kevin Durkee. The errant medals presented were the Bronze Star, American Campaign, European Campaign Medal, with Silver star, and World War II Victory Medal. Johnson Street has lost one of its longtime residents with the Saturday evening death of Lester Yonkers, who has lived at the north end of the street since 1953, first in his wife’s Goodsell family house and then in the new house built by the Yonkers family in 1959. Historical society to discuss fate of annex project The Barry County Historical Society will have its monthly meeting Tuesday, June 5, at 7 p.m. in the front room at the Elks Lodge on Woodlawn Avenue, Hastings. The program will be an open discussion of the group’s potential project of refurbishing the courthouse annex, which formerly housed the sheriff’s home and jail. Many questions need to be resolved, said member Brian Reynolds: Does the community think this is a good idea? Does the historical society have the resources to pull it off? Should this project be undertaken by an ad hoc group, separate from the historical socie- ty, similar to the way the Animal Shelter 2000 group allied with the Humane Society? The meeting is open to members and nonmembers alike, said Reynolds. “Do you have an opinion? You should be there,” he said. “Do you have a skill or talent that could be used? Please attend. Can you think of a better alternative? We need to hear it.” The meeting, he said, will probably determine whether the historical society continues with the annex building project. The society board will meet at 6 p.m., prior to the general meeting. Gen Xers must juggle a variety of financial issues If you’re part of “Generation X” — the age cohort born between the mid-1960s and the early 1980s — you’re probably in one of the busiest phases of your life, as you’re well into your working years and, at the same time, busy raising a family. But just as you’re “multi-tasking” in your life, you’ll also need to address multiple financial goals. In seeking to accomplish your key objectives, you may be asking yourself a variety of questions, including the following: • Should I contribute as much as possible to my IRA and 401(k)? In a word, yes. Your earnings on a traditional Individual Retirement Account (IRA) and a 401(k) grow on a tax-deferred basis, so your money can accumulate faster than it would if placed in an investment on which you paid taxes every year. Plus, since you typically make 401(k) contributions with pretax dollars, the more you contribute, the lower your taxable income. And your traditional IRA contributions may be tax-deductible, depending on your income. If you meet income guidelines, you can contribute to a Roth IRA, which provides tax-free earnings, provided you meet certain conditions. • Should I put away money for my kids’ college education? It’s not easy to fund your retirement accounts plus save money for your children’s college education. Still, college is expensive, so if you feel strongly about helping to pay for the high costs of higher education, you may want to explore college funding vehicles, such as a 529 plan, which offers tax advantages. • Should I pay down my mortgage or invest those funds? Most of us dream of freeing our- 77568316 JOSH SCOBEY on your graduation from Hastings High School TWO BROTHERS AND A TENT For All Your Tent Rental Needs Tables and chairs available. Call: Dan McKinney 269-838-7057 or Tom McKinney 269-838-3842 77568018 77566915 YMCA CAMP MANITOU-LIN SUMMER 2012 Volunteers Needed! The Make 2012 the year you make a difference Volunteers to work with our Day Camp for Individuals with Special Needs Contact Karin Denman 269-795-9163 ext. 9224. Volunteers to work with Therapeutic Horse Back Riding Contact Karen Chappelow (269) 945-1789. 77564841 STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 32.13 +.37 AT&T 33.94 +.40 BP PLC 38.11 +.26 CMS Energy Corp 23.28 +.23 Coca-Cola Co 75.46 +1.27 Eaton 43.77 +1.10 Family Dollar Stores 67.32 +2.63 Fifth Third Bancorp 13.52 +.07 Flowserve CP 108.33 +1.16 Ford Motor Co. 10.84 +.65 General Mills 39.07 +.49 General Motors 22.85 +1.35 Intel Corp. 26.09 +.06 Kellogg Co. 50.48 +.08 McDonald’s Corp 90.90 -.44 Pfizer Inc. 22.18 -.19 Ralcorp 65.79 -3.63 Sears Holding 57.50 +.74 Spartan Motors 4.32 +.20 Spartan Stores 16.82 -.65 Stryker 52.59 +.87 TCF Financial 11.77 +.05 Walmart Stores 65.68 +1.95 Gold $1557.83 -$10.30 Silver $27.90 -.29 Dow Jones Average 12,581 +78 Volume on NYSE 669M -125M 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 Love, Grandma & Grandpa Horton & Uncle Brad ® This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. Keeping potatoes happy and healthy 77568290 APPLY IN PERSON Vitale’s Pizza selves from a mortgage someday. So, as your career advances and your income rises, you may wonder if you should make bigger mortgage payments. On one hand, there’s no denying the psychological benefits you’d receive from paying off your mortgage. However, you may want to consider putting any extra money into your investment portfolio to help as you work toward your retirement goals. Work with your financial advisor to determine what may be most appropriate for your portfolio. • Do I have enough insurance in place to protect my family? You may hear that you need seven or eight times your annual income in life insurance, but there’s really no “right” figure for everyone. You may want to consult with a financial advisor to determine how much life insurance is appropriate for your needs. • Am I familiar with my parents’ financial situation and estate considerations? Now is the time to communicate with your parents about a variety of issues related to their financial situation and estate plans. The more you know, the better positioned you’ll be to provide assistance and support if and when it’s needed. Just to name one example, you should inquire of your parents if they’ve designated a durable power of attorney to make financial decisions for them in case they’re ever incapacitated. By answering these questions, you can get a handle on all the financial issues you face at your stage of life. It may seem challenging, but taking the time now can help you better position yourself to reach your financial goals. Call anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads HELP WANTED Driver with Vehicle EDWARD JONES Call for appropriate pre-volunteer training dates. 06782400 by Dr. E. Kirsten Peters The next time you eat a baked potato, you might want to think of the agricultural scientists who are hard at work trying to help the humble potato deal successfully with some significant diseases. Students of history will remember the Irish potato famine of 1845 to 1852. The denizens of Ireland had come to depend on potatoes as their main staple crop. The plant did well in the wet Irish climate, and the potato produced a lot of food for each acre that was planted. But a crisis arose when whole potato fields fell victim to blight, a disease that wiped out any hope of harvest all over the island. In the end, more than a million people died and another million had to leave Ireland as the blight held sway. Perhaps never has a single disease of plants produced such misery in a concentrated period of time. But there’s more to potato disease than blight, and therein hangs an interesting and much more modern tale. Potatoes are important to us for reasons that go beyond the lip-smacking taste of a French fry. The tubers are a source of carbohydrates, and they also are rich in potassium, iron and Vitamin C. They contain protein, and when baked or boiled, potatoes harbor no fat. But potato plants face some significant challenges out in the field where they grow. One of them is a disease with the slightly comical name of “corky ringspot.” The name sounds a bit like a child’s game, but CRS, as it is sometimes known, is a serious threat to potatoes and the farmers who grow them. It leads to mars and marks in the tubers, including dark arcs about the size of a fingernail you may have seen in potatoes when you peeled them. Other abnormalities are granular regions, the type of flaw that gave the name “corky” to the disease. CRS is caused by a virus that sickens the potato plant. Just as you can become sick from a viral infection like influenza, so can a plant — in fact, one of the main things certain agricultural scientists do is try to help plants resist viruses. The virus that causes CRS appears to infect the plant by way of a microscopic worm in the soil called a nematode. In other words, the nematode’s actions around the roots and tubers of the plant make it possible for the virus to infect the unlucky potato plant. Dark mars and corky areas in the tuber then develop. “We say the virus is ‘vectored’ by the nematode,” Assistant Professor Axel Elling of the Department of Plant Pathology at Washington State University said to me when I was first learning about CRS disease. Elling and his scientific colleagues are starting to look into CRS disease. A lot hinges on their work because if only a small percentage of potatoes shows a lot of CRS symptoms, a farmer’s entire shipment can be rejected — meaning the poor grower has nothing to sell after his investment of labor and costly inputs such as fuel and seed. “CRS is a major challenge for the potato industry,” Elling told me. And research into CRS is just getting off the ground. The hope is that a more thorough understanding of how the virus interacts with the nematodes to infect the potato plant can help in the management of the disease. Agricultural scientists do a lot of work that benefits us each day. They are in the front lines fighting against diseases in plants and livestock that threaten our food supply. When they are successful, we just adapt to our good fortune and think next to nothing about it. Back in the old days when most of us lived on farms, we had a pretty clear picture of how various diseases threaten crops and livestock. But now that most of us get our food from the grocery store and don’t even tour the places where it is grown, we can be quite ignorant of what affects the wide range of crop plants on which we really do depend. But those of us who like to eat our three squares a day have a vested interest in agricultural research — the sort of work Professor Elling and others do each day, and that is almost never publicly celebrated. Pass the spuds, please — and wish the ag researchers well. Dr. E. Kirsten Peters, a native of the rural Northwest, was trained as a geologist at Princeton and Harvard universities. Follow her online at rockdoc.wsu.edu and on Twitter @RockDocWSU. This column is a service of the College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences at Washington State University. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 31, 2012 — Page 9 Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz revisited SPRING IN BARRY – Harry Bridgman and his son, Gene, 13, talk over how much more they must do to get the 28-acre field behind their large dairy barn ready for seeding. The scene is one that can be duplicated in every section of Barry County as farmers work almost around the clock after bad weather slowed up spring work on the farm. – Photo by Barth. This is the ninth part of a series reprinting the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz promotion that ran in the Banner 60 years ago. An unidentified aerial photo of an area farm was pictured in the Banner each week, from Jan. 24 to July 17, 1952, and the owners of the mystery farms were featured in the paper the following week. The contest was sponsored by the Banner and 35 area merchants (who were listed in the April 12 edition of the Banner). ***** Hastings Banner, May 1, 1952 New residents occupy 15th farm pictured in contest One of Barry County’s newest farm families occupies the 15th farm pictured in the Banner. The “new” residents are Mr. and Mrs. Harry W. Bridgman, who with their three sons and daughters occupy the large farm purchased from Roy Fuller, who now resides at 911 W. Green Street. The farm is located off the Messer Road in Carlton Township. The Bridgmans sold a 250-acre farm in Miami County, Ohio, before coming to Michigan to purchase their present 288-acre establishment. The Bridgmans like Michigan, and Mrs. Bridgman’s father, William G. Cain, moved to a farm between here and Nashville about 10 years ago. Her brother, Art Cain, operates a resort at Wall Lake. The farm they purchased has one of the best barns to be found in Barry County. It is a 32-by-100 foot structure, well ventilated and equipped for a modern dairy barn. The original Fuller farm was 40 acres purchased by Roy’s father, Philo, who moved on the place in 1866. Roy was born on the farm in 1876. His father erected the present house and a barn which Roy had rebuilt in 1930. Roy Fuller purchased 237 acres of the former Messer farm and added 40 acres off the Watson McKibben farm. He acquired another 11 acres. He sold all to the Bridgmans, with the exception of the 40 acres of the old Messer homestead. Roy Fuller, after graduating from high school in 1895, completed Big Rapids Business College in 1897 and then went to work for the J.T. Lumbard Lumber Company. After a year, he became lumber purchasing agent for the old Hastings Table Company and in 1910 entered the retail lumber business with I.L. Boyes, Emil Tyden and Richard and Chester Messer. The firm was operated as a partnership for three years and in 1913 was incorporated. At one time, the firm owned a lumberyard in Allegan, Delton and Hopkins in addition to Hastings. Fuller retired from the lumber business in the early 1940s and since then has taken an even more active interest in the farm. The deal on the sale of the farm was completed Feb. 1. The Bridgmans moved here in March – but they began moving their equipment earlier. Bridgman brought to the farm over 60 head of cattle and is now milking 34. He has a mixed herd, but they are mostly Guernseys. He also moved three tractors, a combine, field chopper and other modern farm tools. Their farm 12 miles from Springfield, Ohio, was of similar contour with some rolling land. Having used grass silage in Ohio, Bridgman intends to put up grass silage this year. He has three large silos and a second barn which is 42-by-80 foot. The farm also has a tenant house, plus the many other buildings necessary for a large operation. Bridgman was born in Miami County, Ohio, Aug. 29, 1908, and was married to Hazel Cain March 3, 1934. They have three sons, Gene, 13; Bradley, 16; and Billy, 6. Their daughter Jo Beth is 9. Bridgman hopes someday to go into raising strictly beef cattle and has seeded 80 acres of grass this year. The Bridgmans love farming and although hinting that they’ve had their share of hard lucky, confidently assert that “the Lord has been good to us.” ***** Hastings Banner, May 8, 1952 Notice to the Residents of Hope Township Please take notice that the Hope Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing during its regular meeting on Thursday, June 21st, in the Township offices at 5463 South M-43 Highway, Hastings, Michigan, for the purpose of considering approval of a newly revised Township Master Plan. The revised plan includes updates to the plan text, maps and future land use plan and map. Copies of the current Master Plan and the proposed Master Plan are available for public viewing on the Township website at www.hopetwp.com and during regular business hours at the Township Offices at 5463 South M-43 Highway, Hastings, Michigan. Written comments will be received until the night of the hearing at the same address. If you are planning to attend this hearing and are handicapped requiring any special assistance, please notify the Township Clerk by calling at (269) 9482464 as soon as possible. Roger Pashby, Chairperson Planning Commission Hope Township 77568240 Lucky Farmer has latest in fine milking parlors The farm of Mr. and Mrs. Homer Becker, Route 3, Hastings, was the 16th to be pictured in the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz. The 311-acre Becker place is located in sections 9 and 10 of Hastings Township, two miles east of here on State Road. Land on the farm includes a combination of the Hamilton Fisher, McKnight, Olmstead and Frank Kennedy farms. Becker calls it a general farm, but dairying is the major line with a herd of 86 cattle. Forty-one Holsteins are now being milked in one of the most modern dairy establishments in the county. The main barn on the farm, erected by Homer after he purchased the first 84 acres from this mother, Mrs. Lena Becker, in 1936, is L shaped with the main portion 46-by-82 feet. It is a pen-type barn and the cattle come and go into the barnyard at will. Mr. and Mrs. Becker are probably most proud of their milking parlor and the system that takes the milk direct from the cows to the cans without being touched by the air. It is the latest in milking parlors, with the milk traveling from the cow through stainless steel pipes and plastic tubing into milk cans. The parlor is so efficient that Harold Kingsbury, a bachelor who has worked on the Becker farm for 14 years, can milk all 41 cows himself. The parlor is arranged with two milking stanchions end to end on both sides of a fivefoot wide concrete pit. Cows enter these stalls just long enough to be washed, fed and machine milked. Then they are let out, two at a time, and two more are let in. The Beckers have hot and cold running water in the pit. A center drain carries away wash water. It is not even necessary to bend over to wash off the cow’s udder or put on the milking machine. The cow is elevated 30 inches above the pit area. Sliding doors with built-in feed boxes separate the two cows on entering the parlor. The direct-line milking procedure sold to the Beckers by Harry Blair of Farmers Market and Seed Store is perhaps the most revolutionary. The same vacuum system that runs the milkers draws milk from the units into calibrated glass containers, where it is weighed and then released through plastic and stainless steel tubing out of the parlor and into milk cans in the milk house. The milk goes into one can through a plastic tube and as soon as the first can is filled, milk spills over through a plastic tube into a second and then a third can until all are filled. Empty cans replace the full ones and the process is repeated. Milk never comes in contact with air or human hands from the time it leaves the cow until it is in cans. The milk’s low bacteria count is good enough to give Becker a premium on his milk. The complete unit, including the two milkers, piping and attachments cost $880. The milking parlor, which is 11-by-21 foot. and six inches inside dimensions, cost about $400, plus labor. The parlor is built in a corner of the basement barn and utilizes the barn walls for less costly construction. Mr. Becker can remember when he used to sit on a stool to milk in the heat, since he has been a farmer all his life. He was born in Carlton Township March 18, 1902. After purchasing the original 84 acres from his mother, who resides on the next place west, he progressively added to his holdings until the 311 acres were purchased. Callton lands seat on house agriculture committee State Rep. Mike Callton announced Thursday that he has been assigned to the Michigan House Agriculture Committee. “I’m thrilled to serve on the house agriculture committee,” said Callton, R-Nashville. “Barry and Ionia counties are known throughout the state for our valuable agricultural industry.” “We are fortunate to have valuable job providers such as Moo-Ville, Herbruck’s Poultry Ranch and Twin City Foods in Lake Odessa, in addition to all types of different family farms, from dairy farms and crop farms to cattle ranches. Both of these counties boast active 4-H groups and local FFA chapters that greatly enrich our communities.” “This week, I met with the chairman of the agriculture committee, Kevin Daley, and it was a great meeting. Our first issue has to do with sugar beets. I look forward to helping area farmers and other agriculture leaders with any issues they might have.” “Rep. Callton’s enthusiasm for his new committee assignment is quite clear,” said House Speaker Jase Bolger, R-Marshall. “His dedication to the concerns of his agricultural communities will certainly shine through.” Call anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads 269-945-9554 MODERN MILKING PARLOR – One of the most modern milking parlors to be found in Barry County is located on the 16th farm pictured in the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz. The milking parlor will be found on the Homer Becker farm, two miles east on State Road. The Beckers have had the direct-line milking system since January. Milk goes from the cow into the calibrated glass containers and then through plastic and stainless steel tubing into milk cans in the milk house – never coming in contact with the air. Homer Becker (left) is adjusting the milking machine on one cow and Harold Kingsbury is checking on the other. Two cows are milked at one time. – Photo by Barth. He reports that not only has he worked hard on the farm, but that he has received much help from neighbors who have loaned him equipment and even contributed labor when he has been behind with his work. Becker uses a seven-year rotation on his seven fields. His rotation works like this: He plows a sod field for wheat, wheat is seeded to big or mammoth clover, then the clover is plowed down for corn, the corn stubble is sowed to oats and alfalfa and then the field is in hay or pasture for four years. After that, the rotation is started again. Homer erected all of the buildings with the exception of the house, which was there when he bought the ground. The house has been modernized and leaves nothing to be desired. Both Homer and his wife, the former Esther Doty, are well known to many. Mrs. Becker taught kindergarten and first grade here for 19 years after being graduated from Western Michigan College in Kalamazoo with the class of 1929. Esther and Homer were married June 14, 1948. There are two children in the family – from Homer’s first marriage – Mary Jane, 10 and Anne Elizabeth, 7. Mrs. Becker is active in 4-H work and the Blue Birds, and Homer is a member of the Farm Bureau, the draft board, the Hastings Kiwanis Club, and is a director of the Dairy Herd Improvement Association and ABA, among other activities. The Beckers utilize modern equipment in every possible way. They have two two-plow tractors, own a field chopper, together with Andrew Kennedy, have a combine and the other necessary tools. The machinery and tools help take the “labor” out of farming – but the men still must get up at 4:30 a.m. each day to start milking and the other chores. RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN 2011-2015 PODUNK LAKE IMPROVEMENT PROJECT (AQUATIC VEGETATION CONTROL) NOTICE OF JUNE 13, 2012 HEARING ON PROPOSED REDETERMINATION OF COSTS AND REVISED SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS FOR 2012-2015 TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN; OWNERS OF PROPERTY ABUTTING OR HAVING DEEDED ACCESS TO PODUNK LAKE IN LAND SECTIONS 26, 27 AND 34 OF RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP; AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE the Township Clerk has reported to the Township Board the actual costs incurred by the Township to implement the improvement project approved by the Township Board in 2011 have significantly exceeded the estimated costs submitted by the service provider for the improvement (Lake Savers, LLC) upon which the affected property owners and the Township Board relied to proceed with the project. The Township Clerk has further reported the actual cost of the electricity necessary to operate the system installed by Lake Savers will likely continue to significantly exceed the estimated electricity costs, for the duration of the five year project. The Resolution confirming the 2011-2015 Special Assessment Roll for the Podunk Lake Improvement Project approved by the Township Board on April 13, 2011, and the published and mailed Notice for the prior public hearings, indicated the special assessments for 2012-2015 will be subject to annual redetermination by the Township Board without further notice or hearing, when the actual costs of the yearly program and any relevant administrative costs are known. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that due to the significant difference between the cost estimates submitted by Lake Savers and the actual costs incurred and further expected to be incurred for the duration of the project, the Township Board is exercising its discretion to hold a further public hearing on the proposed redetermination of costs and the resulting revised 2012-2015 special assessments necessary to pay those costs. This public hearing will be held at the Rutland Charter Township Hall at 2461 Heath Road, Hastings, Michigan, on Wednesday, June 13, 2012 in conjunction with a regular meeting of the Township Board commencing at 7:30 p.m. The costs for the improvement project over the five year program (including legal and administrative expenses) are now projected to total approximately $99,625. The original total cost estimate for the project was $73,070. The Township is proposing to revise the 2012-2015 special assessments to collect the amount necessary to cover the presently projected costs of the program in the approximate total amount of $85,620 ($21,405 per year), after subtracting the amount of the 2011 special assessment revenues ($14,005). This will result in the following revised special assessments on the various lots and parcels within the special assessment district for 2012-2015, based on the same allocation method used for the initial 2011-2015 special assessment roll (in each instance treating multiple contiguous lots/parcels under the same ownership as a single assessment unit): • $397.36 per year to each lot/parcel abutting Podunk Lake ($1,589.44 total over four years). • $328.86 per year to each lot/parcel abutting primarily the channel of Podunk Lake ($1,315.44 total over four years). • $152.69 per year to each lot/parcel abutting neither Podunk Lake nor the channel but having deeded access to Podunk Lake ($610.76 over four years). PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE these proposed redetermined costs and revised special assessments may be subject to further annual redetermination and revision by the Township Board in 2013-2015 if the actual costs of the yearly program continue to exceed the presently projected costs on which the revised special assessments are based. Any such further annual redetermination of costs and revised special assessments as may prove to be necessary will be made at a regular meeting of the Township Board in AprilJune 2013–2015, or thereabouts, without further notice or hearing except as may be required by law or as may be further determined by the Township Board; provided that the allocation of individual special assessments resulting from any such further annual redetermination shall again be based on the same allocation method. More detailed information relating to the actual costs incurred and projected by the Township, compared to the initial cost estimates from Lake Savers, LLC, can be obtained by contacting the Township Clerk and will further be explained at the public hearing. The foregoing hearing and all proceedings associated with these special assessment matters will be conducted in accordance with and pursuant to 1954 PA 188, as amended, the Michigan Open Meetings Act, and any other applicable law. Rutland Charter Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services at the meeting/hearing to individuals with disabilities, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audiotapes of printed materials being considered, upon reasonable notice to the Township. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Township Clerk as designated below. Robin Hawthorne, Clerk Rutland Charter Township 2461 Heath Road Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 948-2194 77568184 �Page 10 — Thursday, May 31, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Chester M. Maka and Dianne L. Maka, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 12, 2004, and recorded on April 26, 2004 in instrument 1126429, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Five Thousand Four Hundred Seventy-One and 14/100 Dollars ($125,471.14). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 21, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A Parcel of land in the Northwest 1/4 of Section 21, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, being more particularly described as commencing at the Northeast corner of said Section 21; thence North 89 degrees 48 minutes 22 seconds West along the North line of said Section 2644.25 feet to the North 1/4 post of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 13 minutes 15 seconds West along the North and South 1/4 line of said Section 1697.82 feet to the centerline of Highway M-43; thence 254.06 feet along said centerline and the arc of a curve to the right, Whose radius is 998.20 feet and whose chord bears South 57 degrees 03 minutes 30 seconds West 253.37 feet to the true place of beginning; thence continuing 50.99 feet along the centerline, and the arc of a curve to the right whose radius is 998.20 feet and whose chord bears South 65 degrees 48 minutes 49 seconds West 50.97 feet; thence South 67 degrees 16 minutes 36 seconds West along said centerline 134.05 feet; thence South 68 degrees 59 minutes 42 seconds West along said centerline 120.09 feet; thence South 00 degrees 22 minutes 51 seconds West 307.25 feet; thence North 89 degrees 45 minutes 19 seconds East 282.68 feet; thence North 00 degrees 13 minutes 15 seconds East 421.75 feet to place of beginning. Subject to an easement for ingress and egress and public utilities for the benefit of Parcel D over a parcel of land described as: commencing at the Northeast corner of said Section 21; thence North 89 degrees 48 minutes 22 seconds West along the North line of said Section 2644.25 feet to the North 1/4 post of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 13 minutes 15 seconds West along the North and South 1/4 line of said Section 1697.82 feet to the centerline of Highway M-43; thence 305.04 feet along said centerline and the arc of a curve to the right, whose radius is 998.20 feet and whose chord bears South 58 degrees 31 minutes 20 seconds West 303.85 feet; thence South 67 degrees 16 minutes 36 seconds West along said centerline 134.05 feet; thence South 68 degrees 59 minutes 42 seconds west along said centerline 33.90 feet to the East line of existing 66 foot wide easement for ingress and egress; thence South 00 degrees 22 minutes 45 seconds West along said East line 228.79 feet to the place of beginning; thence North 79 degrees 52 minutes 15 seconds East 228.84 feet; thence South 00 degrees 13 minutes 15 seconds West 67.09 feet; thence South 79 degrees 52 minutes 15 seconds West 229.03 feet to said East line; thence North 00 degrees 22 minutes 45 seconds East 67.13 feet to the place of beginning. Also together with and subject to an existing easement for ingress, egress and public utilities as described below.Also together with and subject to the rights of the public over the Northerly 33 feet thereof as used for Highway M-43. Description of centerline of existing 66 foot wide easement for ingress, egress and public utilities: Commencing at the Northeast corner of said Section 21, Town 2 North, Range 9 West; thence North 89 degrees 48 minutes 22 seconds West along the North line of said Section, 2644.25 feet to the North 1/4 post of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 13 minutes 15 seconds West along the North and South 1/4 line of said Section, 1697.82 feet to the centerline of Highway M-43; thence 305.04 feet along said centerline and the arc of a curve to the right, whose radius is 998.20 feet and whose chord bears South 58 degrees 31 minutes 20 seconds West 303.85 feet; thence South 67 degrees 16 minutes 36 seconds West, along centerline, 134.05 feet; thence South 68 degrees 59 minutes 42 seconds West along said centerline 69.34 feet to the true place of beginning; thence South 00 degrees 22 minutes 45 seconds West, 325.24 feet; thence South 19 degrees 38 minutes 38 seconds East 200.55 feet; thence South 05 degrees 33 minutes 41 seconds East, 221.02 feet; thence South 42 degrees 59 minutes 58 seconds West, 210.09 feet; thence South 47 degrees 57 minutes 58 seconds West 155.36 feet; thence South 68 degrees 57 minutes 42 seconds West 159.53 feet; thence North 76 degrees 01 minutes 17 seconds West 132.05 feet; thence South 84 degrees 07 minutes 17 seconds West 213.20 feet to the place of ending of said easement. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 24, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #395012F01 77568061 (05-24)(06-14) GRAND & GRAND PLLC 31731 Northwestern Hwy, #115 Farmington Hills MI 48334 PURSUANT TO 15 USC §1692 YOU ARE HEREBY INFORMED THAT THIS IS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION THAT YOU PROVIDE MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the condition of a mortgage made by James W. Holes, an unmarried man to MERS, MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC by a mortgage dated May 23, 2008 and recorded on June 11, 2008 in instrument number 200806110006132, Barry County Records Michigan and assigned to BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO BAC HOME LOANS SERVICING, LP FKA COUNTYWIDE HOME LOANS SERVICING, LP by an assignment of mortgage dated November 15, 2011and recorded on November 22, 2011 in instrument number 201111220010962 Barry County Records Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-One Thousand Eight Hundred Ninety-Seven and 87/100 Dollars ($161,897.87) including interest at 6% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings; Michigan at 1:00 pm on June 14, 2012. Said premises are situated in the Township of Yankee, County of Barry State of Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner of Section 22, Town 3 North, Range 10 West, thence South 80 rods, thence East 8 rods, thence North 80 rods, thence west 8 rods to the place of beginning, except commencing at the Northwest corner of Section 22, Town 3 North, Range 10 West, thence East 8 rods, for the place of beginning, thence South 160 feet, thence West 60 feet, thence North 160 feet, thence East 60 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: May 8, 2012 Michael M. Grand, Esq. GRAND & GRAND PLLC 31731 Northwestern Hwy., #115 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 (248) 538-3737 75033 (05-10)(05-31) 77567687 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE — THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT; ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY SERVICE PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW. Notice under MCL 600.3278: Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale under MCL 600.3201 et. seq., the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. ATTENTION POTENTIAL PURCHASERS AT FORECLOSURE SALE: In the case of resolution prior to or simultaneously with the aforementioned foreclosure sale, U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate 2001-4, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents may rescind this sale at any time prior to the end of the redemption period. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited to the return of your bid amount tendered at the sale, plus interest. Default having occurred in the conditions of a Mortgage made by Jose H. Dominguez, Jr. and Doris A. Dominguez, husband and wife, ("Debtors") to Green Tree Servicing LLC (f/k/a Conseco Finance Servicing Corp.), dated August 3, 2001, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry in the State of Michigan on August 7, 2001, in Document Number 1064399, et. seq., and being re-recorded on September 26, 2001 in Document Number 1067187, et. seq., said Mortgage being last assigned to U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate 2001-4 ("Green Tree"), by Mortgage Assignment dated February 6, 2012, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry in the State of Michigan on February 13, 2012, in Document Number 201202130001530, et. seq., on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due as of the date of this Notice the sum of $132,202.45, which amount may or may not be the entire indebtedness owed by Debtors to Green Tree together with interest at 7.99 percent per annum. NOW THEREFORE, Notice is hereby given that the power of sale contained in said Mortgage has become operative and that pursuant to that power of sale and MCL 600.3201 et. seq., on June 14, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., on the East steps of the Circuit Court Building in Hastings, Michigan, that being the place for holding the Circuit Court and/or for conducting such foreclosure sales for the County of Barry, there will be offered at public sale, the premises, or some part thereof, described in said Mortgage as follows, to-wit: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF IRVING, COUNTY OF BARRY, STATE OF MICHIGAN, IS DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: PART OF THE WEST 1/2 OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 23, TOWN 4 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, DESCRIBED AS: BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE NORTH AND SOUTH 1/4 LINE OF SECTION 23, DISTANT SOUTH 01 DEGREES 30' 32" WEST, 1724.04 FEET FROM THE NORTH 1/4 CORNER OF SECTION 23 AND PROCEEDING THENCE SOUTH 88 DEGREES 35' 54" EAST, 1316.12 FEET PARALLEL WITH THE EAST AND WEST 1/4 LINE OF SECTION 23; THENCE SOUTH 01 DEGREES 26' 11" WEST, 364.00 FEET ALONG THE EAST 1/8 LINE; THENCE NORTH 88 DEGREES 35' 54" WEST, 1316.58 FEET; THENCE NORTH 01 DEGREES 30' 32" EAST, 364.00 FEET ALONG THE NORTH AND SOUTH 1/4 LINE TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. which also includes any interest Green Tree may have in the 2000 Century Mobile Home, Serial Number MYD153819ABF. The redemption period shall be six (6) months unless the property is established to be abandoned pursuant to MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of sale or fifteen (15) days from the date the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(b) was posted and mailed, or unless under MCL 600.3240(17), prior to the foreclosure sale the borrower follows the procedure set forth in that section to establish the presumption that the property is used for Agricultural purposes, in which case the redemption period shall be one (1) year from the date of the sale. Dated: May 8, 2012 U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate PassThrough Certificate 2001-4, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents By: DONALD A. BRANDT (P30183) BRANDT, FISHER, ALWARD & PEZZETTI, P.C. Attorneys for Green Tree 1241 E. Eighth Street, P.O. Box 5817 Traverse City, Michigan 49696-5817 (231) 941-9660 File No.: 6140.1075 Ad #28028 05/10, 05/17, 05/24, 05/31/2012 77567692 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Michele R. Cady, a married woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 25, 2005, and recorded on August 17, 2005 in instrument 1151282, and assigned by said Mortgagee to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Three Thousand Four Hundred Sixteen and 48/100 Dollars ($93,416.48). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 7, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The East 1/2 of Lots 62 and 63, Q.A. Phillips Addition to the Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan as recorded in Liber 1, Page 38, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 10, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #348982F03 (05-10)(05-31) 77567641 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Daryl R. Hamel and Nancy C. Hamel, as joint tenants., to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns., Mortgagee, dated November 15, 2006 and recorded November 28, 2006 in Instrument Number 1173169, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by The Bank of New York Mellon FKA The Bank of New York, as Trustee for the certificateholders of the CWABS, Inc., Asset-backed Certificates, Series 2006-25 by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of SixtyThree Thousand Forty-One and 86/100 Dollars ($63,041.86) including interest at 8.2% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on JUNE 14, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Hasting, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land located in the Township of Hastings, Barry County, State of Michigan, and described as follows: The North 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 4, Town 3 North, Range 8 West. Except: Commencing at the Northeast corner of the North 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of said Section 4; thence West 798 feet; thence South 660 feet; thence East 798 feet; thence North 660 feet to the place of beginning. Also Except: Commencing at the intersection of State Highway M-43 and The County Highway, known as, Barber Road; thence North 424 feet; thence due East to the center of M-43; thence Southwesterly along said centerline to the place of beginning. Also Except: Commencing at the North 1/4 post of said section; thence East along the North section line 135 feet; thence South parallel with the North and South 1/4 line 231 feet; thence West 135 feet to the North and South 1/4 line; thence Northerly along said North and South 1/4 line 231 feet to the Place of Beginning. Also Except: Commencing at a point 798 feet West of the Northeast corner of the North 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of said Section 4; thence South 40 rods; thence West 450 feet, more of less, to Coats Grove Road; thence following said road to the Place of Beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: May 17, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 347.0322 77567908 (05-17)(06-07) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Michael J. Speck, a single man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 23, 2006, and recorded on January 25, 2006 in instrument 1159334, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Wells Fargo Bank, NA as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Seven Thousand Seven Hundred Twenty-Four and 32/100 Dollars ($97,724.32). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 14, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at a point 18 rods 7 1/2 feet East from the Southwest corner of Section 18, Town 2 North, Range 10 West; thence North 20 rods; thence East 16 rods; thence South 20 rods; thence West 16 rods to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 17, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #347952F02 77567832 (05-17)(06-07) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by DONALD NEVINS and CASSANDRA A. NEVINS, husband and wife, and ELIZABETH M. NEVINS, a single woman (collectively, "Mortgagor"), to SAND RIDGE BANK, an Indiana corporation, of PO Box 598, Schereville, Indiana 46375, dated June 3, 2004, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on June 20, 2004, as instrument number 1130137 (the “Mortgage”). First Financial Bank, N.A., a national association, of 300 High Street, PO Box 476, Hamilton, Ohio 45011-0476, was the successor by consolidation to Sand Ridge Bank, and subsequently assigned the Mortgage to CHEMICAL BANK, a Michigan banking corporation, having an office at 333 E. Main Street, Midland, Michigan 48640-6511 (the "Mortgagee"), by assignment dated February 28, 2012, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on March 2, 2012, as Instrument No. 201203020002168 (the "Mortgage"). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgagee is the owner of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Sixty Three Thousand Seven Hundred Fifty One and 96/100 Dollars ($63,751.96). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 14th day of June, 2012, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: Lot 669 of the City, formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof. Together with all the improvements erected on the real estate, and all easements, appurtenances, and fixtures a part of the property, and all replacements and additions. Commonly known as: 512 W. State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 P.P. #08-55-001-206-00 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys the premises at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee for damaging the premises during the redemption period. Dated: May 17, 2012 CHEMICAL BANK Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center, 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2487 (616) 752-2000 77567838 8206150-1 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Trevor Brown, an unmarried man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Amerifirst Financial Corporation, its successors or assigns., Mortgagee, dated November 12, 2010 and recorded November 17, 2010 in Instrument Number 201011170010817, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Six Thousand Four Hundred Forty-Five and 87/100 Dollars ($66,445.87) including interest at 4.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 06/28/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The following premises County of Barry and State of Michigan: Lot 28 of West Beach, according to the Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, Page(s) 67, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: May 31, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 682.2896 77568311 (05-31)(06-21) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Lindsey Bogerd, a single woman and Eric Smith, a single man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Quicken Loans Inc., its successors or assigns., Mortgagee, dated July 20, 2007 and recorded July 26, 2007 in Instrument Number 20070726-000177, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Bank of America, N.A. Successor by Merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP FKA Countywide Home Loans Servicing LP by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Three Hundred Forty-Nine Thousand Sixty-One and 73/100 Dollars ($349,061.73) including interest at 6.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on JUNE 14, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land located in the Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, State of Michigan, and described as follows: Lot 65 of Sunrise Shores #2, According to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plat on Page 98 Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: May 17, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 708.0721 77567913 (05-17)(06-07) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 31, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Stan L. Monks, a Single Man to Option One Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated August 15, 2005 and recorded August 22, 2005 in Instrument # 1151436 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Soundview Home Loan Trust 2005OPT3, Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2005OPT3, by assignment dated May 2, 2012 and recorded May 10, 2012 in Instrument Number 201205100005418 , on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Thousand Six Hundred Thirty-Five Dollars and Twenty-Nine Cents ($200,635.29) including interest 6.99% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on June 21, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North one-half of the North one-half of the Southeast one-quarter of Section 8, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, except the South 220 feet of the East 750 feet of the North one-half of the North one-half of the Southeast onequarter of Section 8, Town 4 North, Range 9 West. Except; beginning at a point on the East and West one-quarter line of Section 8, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, distant North 89 degrees 29 minutes 20 seconds West, 1353.00 feet from the East onequarter corner of said Section 8; thence South 05 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West, 660.00 feet to the South line of the North one-half of the North one-half of the Northeast one-quarter of said Section 8; thence North 89 degrees 27 minutes West, 1228.6 feet along said South line to the North and South one-quarter line of Section 8; thence North 00 degrees 29 minutes 40 seconds East, 657.2 feet along said North and South line to the center one-quarter corner of said Section 8; thence South 89 degrees 29 minutes 20 seconds East, 1280.4 feet along said East and West one-quarter line to the point of beginning. Commonly known as 6225 N Solomon Rd, Middleville MI 49333 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 5/24/2012 Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Soundview Home Loan Trust 2005-OPT3, AssetBacked Certificates, Series 2005-OPT3, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-61560 (0577568125 24)(06-14) SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by ALAN E. ORSESKE, A MARRIED MAN and MELISSA S. ORSESKE, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated August 28, 2003, and recorded on October 10, 2003, in Document No. 1115342, and assigned by said mortgagee to GMAC MORTGAGE, LLC SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO GMAC MORTGAGE CORPORATION, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Five Thousand Eight Hundred Seventy-Seven Dollars and Thirty-Five Cents ($65,877.35), including interest at 6.500% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on June 14, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: THAT PART OF THE SOUTHWEST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 5, TOWN 1 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, DESCRIBED AS: A PARCEL OF LAND IN THE SOUTHWEST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 5, TOWN 1 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, DESCRIBED AS: COMMENCING AT A POINT 46.5 RODS EAST OF THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF THE SOUTHWEST 1 / 4 OF SAID SECTION 5, FOR THE PLACE OF BEGINNING, THENCE SOUTH 10 RODS, THENCE EAST 4 RODS, THENCE NORTH 10 RODS, THENCE WEST 4 RODS ALONG THE MIDDLE OF HIGHWAY TO PLACE OF BEGINNING. ALSO COMMENCING AT A POINT 46,5 RODS EAST AND 10 RODS SOUTH OF NORTHWEST CORNER OF THE SOUTHWEST 1 /4 OF SECTION 5 FOR THE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE SOUTH 20 RODS, THENCE EAST 4 RODS, THENCE NORTH 20 RODS, THENCE WEST 4 RODS TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. GMAC MORTGAGE, LLC SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO GMAC MORTGAGE CORPORATION Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 GMAC.012199 (0577567926 17)(06-07) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Todd L. Porter, single man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated October 21, 2009 and recorded November 10, 2009 in Instrument Number 200911100010962, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Chase Home Finance LLC by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Five Thousand Four Hundred Sixty-One and 67/100 Dollars ($75,461.67) including interest at 5.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on JUNE 14, 2012. Said premises are located in the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 128, City of Hastings, according to the recorded Plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: May 17, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 682.0573 77567903 (05-17)(06-07) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Sallie K. Stambaugh and Greg L. Stambaugh, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated February 24, 2005, and recorded on March 4, 2005 in instrument 1142271, and assigned by said Mortgagee to DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY AS TRUSTEE FOR T HE HOLDERS OF IXIS REAL ESTATE CAPITAL TRUST 2005-HE3 MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES,SERIES 2005-HE3 as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Five Thousand Three Hundred Ten and 02/100 Dollars ($105,310.02). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 28, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel A: A parcel of land in the Northwest 1/4 of Section 36, town 3 North, Range 7 West described as: Commencing at a point 17 1/2 rods East of the Northwest corner of Section 36, running thence South 9 1/2 rods; thence East 9 1/2 rods to the West line of Main Street in the Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan; thence North along the West lien of said Main Street 9 1/2 rods to the Section line of the North side of said Section 36; thence West along said Section line 9 1/2 rods to the place of beginning, excepting a parcel 26 feet square out of the Southeast corner thereof, which said parcel was deeded to the Consumers Power Company. Parcel B: A parcel of land in the Northwest 1/4 of Section 36, Town 3 North, Range 7 West, Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner of said Section 36; thence East 17 1/2 rods; thence South 9 1/2 rods; thence West 17 1/2 rods; thence North 9 1/2 rods to the place of beginning The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 31, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #401425F01 77568270 (05-31)(06-21) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Dennis Jay Steffes aka Dennis J Steffes and Tina Marie Steffes aka Tina M Steffes, husband and wife, as tenants by the entireties, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated November 22, 2004, and recorded on December 2, 2004 in instrument 1138030, and assigned by mesne assignments to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Forty-Eight Thousand Three Hundred Eight and 56/100 Dollars ($248,308.56). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 21, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Beginning at the Northwesterly corner of Lot 1 of Algonquin North Shore Subdivision, according to the recorded plat thereof in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 50, in Section 2, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, and Running thence North 51 degrees 04 minutes East 41.18 feet along Northwesterly line of said Lot; thence South 55 degrees 01 minutes 24 seconds East 57.0 feet along the Northeasterly side of said Lot; thence South 01 degrees 06 minutes 14 seconds West 155.34 feet along the East line of said Lot; thence North 89 degrees 22 minutes West 40.0 feet along the Plat Meander Line; thence North 22 degrees 45 minutes 04 seconds West 91.51 feet to a point on the West line of said Lot 1, distant South 00 degrees 16 minutes East 77.28 feet from the Northwesterly corner thereof; thence North 56 degrees 43 minutes 34 seconds West 85.40 feet to the center of Iroquois Trail (platted North Shore Drive); thence North 51 degrees 04 minutes East 65.0 feet along the center of said Street; thence South 00 degrees 16 minutes East 32.02 feet to the place of beginning. Extending the Easterly and Westerly sidelines to the Water's Edge of Algonquin Lake. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 24, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #337812F03 77568073 (05-24)(06-14) SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by JEFFERY CHASE, A SINGLE MAN, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated May 17, 2007, and recorded on May 23, 2007, in Document No. 1180894, and assigned by said mortgagee to GMAC Mortgage, LLC successor by merger to GMAC Mortgage Corporation, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Twenty-One Thousand Three Hundred Seventy-Four Dollars and Eighty-One Cents ($221,374.81), including interest at 5.000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on June 7, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: PARCEL 1: A PARCEL OF LAND IN THE SOUTHWEST 1 / 4 OF THE NORTHWEST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 8, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 7 WEST, MAPLE GROVE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF THE SOUTHWEST 1 / 4 OF THE NORTHWEST 1 / 4 OF SAID SECTION 8; THENCE NORTH 88 DEGREES 31 MINUTES 15 SECONDS EAST 1320.80 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 00 DEGREES 04 MINUTES 40 SECONDS WEST 330 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 88 DEGREES 31 MINUTES 15 SECONDS WEST 1320.58 FEET TO THE WEST LINE OF SAID SECTION 8; THENCE DUE NORTH 330 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. PARCEL 2: A PARCEL OF LAND IN THE NORTHWEST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 8, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 7 WEST, MAPLE GROVE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE WEST LINE OF SAID SECTION 8 WHICH LIES 1488.25 FEET DUE SOUTH OF THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF SAID SECTION 8; THENCE NORTH 88 DEGREES 31 MINUTES 15 SECONDS EAST 1320.58 FEET TO THE WEST 1 / 8 LINE; THENCE SOUTH 00 DEGREES 04 MINUTES 40 SECONDS WEST 663.31 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 88 DEGREES 34 MINUTES WEST 1319.67 FEET; THENCE DUE NORTH 662.23 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. EXCEPT THE NORTH 165 FEET AND EXCEPT THE SOUTH 165 FEET OF THE ABOVE DESCRIBED PARCEL OF LAND. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. GMAC Mortgage, LLC successor by merger to GMAC Mortgage Corporation Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 GMAC.012202 (0510)(05-31) 77567717 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE MORTGAGE SALE-Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a mortgage made by DONALD F. HERRICK and ANNE K. HERRICK, husband and wife, of 5885 LAMMERS RD., HASTINGS, MI 49058, Mortgagor(s) to MORTGAGE CENTER, LC, of 29621 NORTHWESTERN HIGHWAY, SOUTHFIELD, MI 48034, Mortgagee, dated AUGUST 22, 2003, and recorded on SEPTEMBER 3, 2003, in INSTRUMENT NO. 1112348 in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, and State of Michigan on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, for principal and interest, the sum of EIGHTY-NINE THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED SEVENTY-NINE AND 10/100THS ($89,579.10) DOLLARS with interest at 6.125% percent per annum, and attorney fees as provided for in said Mortgage and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said Mortgage or any part hereof, NOW, THEREFORE, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to the statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on JULY 5, 2012, at 1:00 P.M., local time, said Mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, inside the Barry County Circuit Court Building in the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan (that being the building where the Circuit Court for Barry County is held), of the premises described in said Mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due, as aforesaid, on said Mortgage, with interest thereon and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sum or sums which may be paid by the undersigned, necessary to protect its interest in the premises. Which said premises are described as follows: All the certain pieces or parcels of land situate in the TOWNSHIP OF HOPE, COUNTY OF BARRY, AND STATE OF MICHIGAN, to wit: BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE WEST LINE OF SECTION 11, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, DISTANT NORTH 390 FEET FROM THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF SECTION 11; THENCE NORTH 307 FEET, MORE OR LESS ALONG THE WEST LINE OF SECTION 11 TO A POINT 381 FEET SOUTH OF THE NORTH LINE OF THE SOUTH 49 ACRES OF THE WEST 3 / 4 OF THE SOUTHWEST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 11; THENCE EAST 360 FEET PARALLEL WITH SAID NORTH LINE: THENCE SOUTH 307 FEET MORE OR LESS TO A POINT 390 FEET NORTH OF THE SOUTH LINE OF SAID SECTION: THENCE WEST 360 FEET TO THE WEST SECTION LINE AND THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. SAID REAL ESTATE IS IMPROVED WITH, AMONG OTHER IMPROVEMENTS, A MANUFACTURED HOME UNIT*. BORROWERS ACKNOWLEDGE THAT THIS UNIT IS A PART OF THE REAL PROPERTY HEREBY SECURED BY THIS MORTGAGE. *1994 CENTURY MOBILE HOME, SERIAL NO. MY9534929ABF. MORE COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 5885 LAMMERS ROAD, HASTINGS, MI 49058 During the SIX (6) months immediately following the sale, the property may be redeemed, except that in the event that the property is determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241 a, the property may be redeemed during the thirty (30) days immediately following the sale. _____________________________ KENNETH C. BUTLER II (P 28477) ATTORNEY FOR MORTGAGEE 24525 HARPER AVENUE ST. CLAIR SHORES, MI 48080 (586) 777-0770 77568282 Dated: 05-31-12 (05-31)(06-28) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by DOUGLAS R. BAKER and MELISSA M. BAKER, husband and wife (collectively, "Mortgagor"), to GREENSTONE FARM CREDIT SERVICES, FLCA, a federally chartered corporation, having an office at 3515 West Road, East Lansing, Michigan 48823 (the "Mortgagee"), dated September 20, 2007, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on September 24, 2007, as Instrument No. 20070924-0002334, as amended by an agreement for extension or reamortization dated October 1, 2009, recorded November 6, 2009 as Instrument No. 200911060010869, Barry County Records (the "Mortgage"). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgagee is the owner of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Eighty-Seven Thousand Eighty-One and 09/100 Dollars ($87,081.09). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public venue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 14th day of June, 2012, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the Townships of Orangeville and Hope, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: Parcel 1: Southeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4, Section 13, Town 2 North, Range 10 West, except Commencing at the Southeast corner thereof; thence West along East/West 1/4 line 271 feet for point of beginning; thence North parallel with the East line of Section 13, 450 feet thence West parallel with East/West 1/4 line 300 feet; thence South parallel with East Section line 450 feet; thence East 300 feet to point of beginning. Also except commencing at East 1/4 post of Section 13, Town 2 North, Range 10 West; thence North 89 degrees 32 minutes 43 seconds West on East and West 1/4 line 1328.08 feet; thence North 0 degrees 38 minutes 43 seconds East on North and South 1/8 line 475.00 feet to point of beginning of this exception; thence continuing North 0 degrees 32 minutes 43 seconds East 285 feet; thence South 89 degrees 17 minutes 17 seconds East 300 feet; thence South 0 degrees 32 minutes 43 seconds East 285 feet; thence North 89 degrees 27 minutes 17 seconds West 300 feet to point of beginning; also excepting Orangeville Township commencing at East 1/4 corner of Section 13, Town 2 North, Range 10 West; thence North 89 degrees 08 minutes 21 seconds West 571 feet; thence Northerly parallel with East line of said Section 450 feet to point of beginning; thence Southerly parallel with East line of said Section 450 feet to East/West 1/4 line; thence North 89 degrees 08 minutes 21 seconds West 757.08 feet; thence North 00 degrees 32 minutes 43 seconds East 475.00 feet; thence South 89 degrees 27 minutes 17 seconds East 756 feet more or less to a point thence lies Northerly parallel with East line of said Section from point of beginning; thence Southerly parallel with said East line said Section 29 feet more or less to point of beginning. Except commencing at the Southeast corner of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 13, Town 2 North, Range 10 West, Orangeville Township, Barry IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Laura C. Miller, a single woman, to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., Mortgagee, dated April 13, 2007 and recorded April 25, 2007 in Instrument Number 1179727, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, successor by merger to Chase Home Finance LLC by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-One Thousand Seven Hundred Twenty-Eight and 81/100 Dollars ($131,728.81) including interest at 6.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on JUNE 14, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 66 of Middleville Downs Number 3, Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 26. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: May 17, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 310.8582 77567898 (05-17)(06-07) County, Michigan; thence North 89 degrees 08 minutes 21 seconds West, on the East and West 1/4 line, 571.00 feet; thence North 0 degrees 24 minutes 49 seconds East, parallel with the East Section line, 475.00 feet to the point of beginning of the Parcel of land herein described; thence North 89 degrees 27 minutes 17 seconds West, 455.92 feet; thence North 0 degrees 32 minutes 43 seconds East, parallel with the North and South 1/8 line of said Northeast 1/4, 285.00 feet; thence North 89 degrees 27 minutes 17 seconds West, 300.00 feet to said 1/8 line; thence North 0 degrees 32 minutes 43 seconds East, on said 1/8 line, 100.19 feet; thence South 89 degrees 07 minutes 25 seconds East, 755.02 feet; thence South 0 degrees 24 minutes 49 seconds West, parallel with the East Section line, 410.00 feet to the point of beginning. Also Except commencing at the Southeast corner of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 13, Town 2 North, Range 10 West; thence North 89 degrees 08 minutes 21 seconds West, on the East and West 1/4 line, 271.00 feet; thence North 0 degrees 24 minutes 49 seconds East, parallel with the East Section line, 450.00 feet to the point of beginning of the parcel of land herein described; thence North 89 degrees 08 minutes 21 seconds West, parallel with the East and West 1/4 line, 300.00 feet; thence North 0 degrees 24 minutes 49 seconds East, parallel with the East Section line, 410.00 feet; thence South 89 degrees 08 minutes 21 seconds East, parallel with the East and West 1/4 line, 300.00 feet; thence South 0 degrees 24 minutes 49 seconds West, parallel with the East Section line, 410.00 feet to the point of beginning. Parcel 2: Parcel in Section 18, Hope Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner Section 18, Town 2 North, Range 9 West; thence North 88 degrees 51 minutes 14 seconds East 440 feet along the North line; thence South 1 degrees 8 minutes 46 seconds East 1833.47 feet; thence South 88 degrees 51 minutes 14 seconds West 427.09 feet to the West line of Section 18; thence North 1 degrees 32 minutes 58 seconds West 1833.52 feet along West line to point of beginning. Together with all fixtures, tenements, hereditaments, and appurtenances belonging or in any way appertaining to the premises. Commonly known as: vacant land on Keller Road, Delton, Michigan 49046 P.P. #08-11-013-011-00 (Parcel 1) and 08-07-018-218-05, 08-07-018-218-10 and 08-07-018-218-20 (Parcel 2) Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys the premises at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee for damaging the premises during the redemption period. Dated: May 17, 2012 GREENSTONE FARM CREDIT SERVICES, FLCA Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2487 (616) 752-2000 8302855-1 77567819 �Page 12 — Thursday, May 31, 2012 — The Hastings Banner HHS seniors receive awards and scholarships Each year on the eve of commencement exercises, Hastings High School takes time to honor the accomplishment of its graduating class with awards and scholarships. Thursday, May 24, friends and family of the Hastings High School Class of 2012 were on hand to see the graduates recognized for their achievements. Music was provided by the Hastings High School Band and Varsity Singers. Hastings High School Principal Tim Johnston welcomed graduates and guests before the business of the evening began — presenting the following awards and scholarships: Department awards: Science Department — Vic Camp Award/Student of the Year, Sarah Thornburgh; Business Department Outstanding Business Student, Hannah Smith; Career/Technical Department Student of the Year, Brandon Johnson; Fine Arts Department Student of the Year, Brian Graybill; Language Arts Department Student of the Year, Jenna Nedbalek; Math Department Student of the Year Megan Denny; Social Studies Student of the Year, Megan Miller. Participation Awards: Academic Letter Awards for students earning a GPA of 3.5 or better: First year — Jennifer Feldpausch, Maicee Herrington, Alexis Hickey, Brandon Johnson, Tessa Johnson, Micala Klipfer, Kimberly Morris, Gabrielle Shipley; second year — Hannah Alspaugh, Kaylee DeMink, Kayla Gorodenski, Brian Graybill, Shelby Kubek, Bret Lawrence, Megan Morse, Rebecca Senard; third year — Megan Denny, Keith Garber, Kathryn Kesler, Alice Kinney, Joseph Longstreet, Jenna Nedbalek, Danielle Sherman, Sarah Sleevi, Hannah Smith, Sarah Thornburgh, Dalten White, Zachary Zwiernikowski. Foreign Exchange Student Awards — Matilde Berg Fagerland, Frederik Jan Eric Isgard, Julia Pela Meneghel, Frnacesca Retiring Hastings High School choir director Patti LaJoye leads Evan Ramsey (center) and rest of the Varsity Singers in a performance of “I’ll Be Seeing You.” Zecchi; University of Michigan Alumni Awards — Danielle Sherman, Dalten White; Michigan State University Award — Kathryn Kesler; Donor for Life Award — Jacob Steidle; U.S. Marine Corps Scholastic Excellence Award — Tessa Johnson, Zachary Zwiernikowski; Congressman’s Medal of Merit — Sarah Thornburgh; The Society of Women Engineers — Lauren Kirwin; National Merit Scholarship Finalist — Joseph Longstreet; Saxon Service Award — Hannah Alspaugh; O-K Conference Scholar Athlete Awards and MHSAA Farm Bureau Scholar Athlete Awards — Kaylee DeMink, Megan Denny, Jennifer Feldpausch, Keith Garber, Brian Graybill, Maicee Herrington, Brandon Johnson, Tessa Johnson, Joseph Longstreet, Gabrielle Shipley, Sarah Sleevi, Hannah Smith, Sarah Thornburgh, Zachary Zwiernikowski; Detroit Free Press Scholar Athlete — Keith Garber; George “Buzz” Youngs Awards and O-K Conference Athlete of the Year Awards — Taylor Klotz, Danielle Meredith. Local scholarships Most local scholarships have specific criteria that must be met by the recipients. Some scholarships require admission to a particular university or field of study. Most of the scholarships have a grade point average minimum. The majority of the scholarships require that the student complete an application process. Some of the awards are chosen by the donor; others are selected by a committee. L.H. Lamb Scholarships — Alexis Clow, Taylor Klotz, Mike Pewoski; First Presbyterian Church of Hastings Scholarships — April Nicholson-Marsh, Zachary Zwiernikowski; Exchange Club Youth of the Year/Hastings Exchange Club Scholarship — Kathryn Kesler; Woody Wyngarden Memorial Scholarship — Keith Garber; Hastings Athletic Boosters Scholarship — Keith Garber, Sarah Thornburgh; Western Michigan Viking Group Scholarship — Dalten White; Paulsen Trust Fund Scholarships — Kaylee DeMink, Keith Garber; ANA Scholarship — Jennifer Feldpausch; Coleman Insurance Agency Laura Kingma presents the Business Professional Women of Hastings Scholarship to Emily Macqueen. Photos by Rose Hendershot LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Shawn M. Ricketts and Bambi R. Ricketts, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, Inc., Mortgagee, dated October 23, 2002, and recorded on November 1, 2002 in instrument 1090769, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Six Thousand Five Hundred One and 74/100 Dollars ($96,501.74). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 21, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 18, Fairview Estates No. 1, according to the recorded plat thereof in Liber 6 of Plats on Page 6. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 24, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #387378F01 77568068 (05-24)(06-14) SYNOPSIS PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP Regular Meeting May 9, 2012 Supervisor J. Stoneburner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Present: Supervisor J. Stoneburner, Treasurer K. McGuire, Trustee Grundy and Trustee R. Goebel Absent: Clerk J. Owens Also present were 11 guest. Pledge of allegiance and a moment of silence for our troops. Agenda was approved with changes. Minutes were presented to the Board and approved. Correspondence was read. Barry County Commissioner report was read. P ublic Comment was received. Fire Departments report was placed on file. Police Department report was placed on file. Supervisor’s Report was received. Approved Bill & Jeannie Miller to be the Grand Marshall for the parade. Approved Dick VanNiman and Lorraine Brown to be Citizen of the Year for the parade. Treasurer’s Report was received. Clerk’s Report was received. Approve to pay Township bills for $36,650.32. Approved the change of Payroll Pay dates. Approved the proposal from Yoshiaki Tsuji R.A. in the amount of $1,200.00 regarding the Prairieville Township Fire Station addition. Approved the Mutual Aid Proposal with Barry and Hope Township, for Delton Fire Department, dated 4/24/12, with the review of mutual aid in one year. Approved the Mutual Aid Proposal with Barry Township, for Hickory Corners Fire Department, dated 4/11/12, with the review of mutual aid in one year. Approved the following budget amendment: $500 increase 101-000-668-729 and $500 increase 101-729-740-000. Public comments were received. Board comments were received. Meeting adjourned at 8:51 p.m. Submitted by: Jill Owens, Clerk Attested to by: 77568267 Jim Stoneburner, Supervisor Courtney Morse receives the Patrick S. Gilmore Award, which also was presented to classmate Rebecca Senard. Hastings High School English teacher Martha Gibbons presents the Language Arts Department Student of the Year Award to Jenna Nedbalek. Scholarship — Kimberly Morris; Union Bank Scholarship — Sarah Thornburgh; To the Eleventh Power Scholarship — Hannah Alspaugh; Andrea Storrs Scholarship — Hannah Alspaugh; Thomas and Florence Girrbach Memorial Award — Joseph Krebs; Douglas H. Castleman Scholarship — Kimberly Smith; Lake Trust Credit Union Community Scholarship — Katherine Coenen; Charles Baldwin Speakers Club Scholarship — Craig Gagnon; HEA Scholarships — Daniel Buehler, Megan Denny, Joseph Longstreet, Sarah Sleevi; Kathryn Kesler smiles after receiving the Michigan State University Award from Hastings High School Assistant Principal Steve Hoke. NOTICE The minutes of the meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners held May 29, 2012, are available in the County Clerk’s Office at 220 W. State St., Hastings, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or www.barrycounty.org. 77568191 PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PARTIES PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a Public Hearing will be held by the Prairieville Township Planning Commission on June 20, 2012 at 7:00 P.M. at the Prairieville Township Hall, 10115 S. Norris Road, within the Township. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the item(s) to be considered at this public hearing include, in brief, the following: 1. request by Robert Kelly, 11341 Sunset Point Dr. Plainwell, MI 49080 for a Special Land Use Permit for a 44’x 60’ accessory structure on a parcel of land that does not contain a principle residence. The subject property is 12485 Merlau Ave. Plainwell MI 49080 – 08-12-007-00670 and is located in AG zoning district. 2. Such other and further matters as may properly come before the Planning Commission for this meeting. All interested persons are invited to be present or submit written comments on this matter(s) to the below Township office address. Prairieville Township will provide necessary auxiliary aids and services such as signers for the hearing impaired and audiotapes of printed materials being considered at the hearing upon five (5) days notice to the Prairieville Township Clerk. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Prairieville Township Clerk at the address or telephone number set forth below. 77568288 Jim Stoneburner, Township Supervisor GFWC Hastings Women’s Club Jumpstart Your Future Scholarship — Alice Kinney; Business Professional Women of Hastings Scholarship — Emily Macqueen; Mickey Furrow Memorial Scholarship — Megan Morse; Mary Youngs Music and Athletic Memorial Scholarships — Megan Denny, Sarah Thornburgh; Lakewood Area Choral Society Scholarship — Megan Morse; Carrie Roe Memorial Scholarship — Zachary Zwiernikowski. Hastings Education Enrichment Foundation Scholarships Hastings Car Club — Ken VanBelkum; Helen Mott — Victoria Cybulski, Emily Macqueen, Megan Miller; Howard and Leona VanDelic — Kara Cuncannon, Meg Travis; Rosellen E. and Paul E. Siegel — Jennifer Feldpausch, Micala Klipfer; Robert Casey Scholarship — Cassidee Martin; Marvin and Beverly Chamberlain Scholarship — Laken Meade; Ruth Tangerstrom Memorial Scholarship — Courtney Morse; Mable Foote Scholarships — Megan Denny, Kathryn Kesler, Andrew Slocum, Sarah Thornburgh; Herbert J. Reinhardt Scholarship — Joseph Longstreet; Hastings Kiwanis Club Scholarship — Kathryn Kesler; Beatrice Fisher Wollin Scholarship — Sarah Sleevi; William P. Czinder Scholarship — Brandon Johnson; John “Jock” and Kathleen Clarey Scholarship — Anna Cooley; Hastings Mutual Insurance Company — Hannah Smith; Hastings Rotary Club Scholarship— Tessa Johnson, Zachary Zwiernikowski; Dana Burgess Hastings High School Alumni Association — Hannah Alspaugh, Brian Graybill; Gladys Cairns — Bret Lawrence, Danielle Sherman, Dalten White; Carl and Loretta Schoessel Community Service and Leadership Scholarship — Lauren Kirwin, Continued next page NOTICE The Barry County Board of Commissioners is seeking applications from volunteers to serve on the following Boards/Commissions: Agricultural Preservation Board (3 positions: 2 representing Natural Resource Conservation, and 1 representing Agricultural Interest) Animal Control/Shelter Advisory Board (1 position, Citizen at Large) Building Authority (1 position) Solid Waste Oversight Committee (1 position, representing Health Association/Environmental Professional) Applications may be obtained at the County Administration Office, 3rd floor of the Courthouse, 220 W. State St., Hastings; or www.barrycounty.org; and must be returned no later than 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 6, 2012. Contact 269-945-1284 for more information. 77567828 NOTICE TO BIDDERS BARRY COUNTY ROAD COMMISSION Sealed proposals will be received at the office of the Barry County Road Commission, 1725 West M-43 Highway, P.O. Box 158, Hastings, MI 49058, until 3:30 P.M. Tuesday, June 5, 2012 for the following items. Specifications and additional information may be obtained at the Road Commission Office at the above address or at our web site at barrycrc.org. Treated Bridge Planking The Board reserves the right to reject any or all proposals or to waive irregularities in the best interest of the Commission. BOARD OF COUNTY ROAD COMMISSIONERS OF THE COUNTY OF BARRY Frank M. Fiala, Chairman D. David Dykstra, Member David D. Solmes, Member 77568318 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 31, 2012 — Page 13 Continued from previous page Chase Williams. High honors (top 10) — Megan Denny, Keith Garber, Kathryn Kesler, Joseph Longstreet, Jenna Nedbalek, Danielle Sherman, Sarah Sleevi, Hannah Smith, Sarah Thornburgh, Dalten White. Honors (GPA over 3.25) Hannah Alspaugh, Jordan Bell, Anna Cooley, Kara Cuncannon, Victoria Cybulski, Kaylee DeMink, Megan Denny, Jennifer Feldpausch, Carl Franson, Keith Garber, Kayla Gorodenski, Brian Graybill, Maicee Herrington, Alexis Hickey, Brandon Johnson, Tessa Johnson, Michael Kaczmarczyk, Alexis Kelly, Kathryn Kesler, Alice Kinney, Lauren Kirwin, Micala Klipfer, Shelby Kubek, Bret Lawrence, Emily Macqueen, Cassidee Martin, Laken Meade, Megan Miller, Joshua Moore, Kimberly Morris, Megan Morse, Amber Myers, Jenna Nedbalek, Rebecca Senard, Danielle Sherman, Gabrielle Shipley, Sarah Sleevi, Hannah Smith, Kimberly Smith, Sarah Thornburgh, Meg Travis, Dalten White, Caitlyn Woodmansee, Zachary Zwiernikowski. Senior members of the National Honor Society — Hannah Alspaugh, Kaylee DeMink, Megan Denny, Jennifer Feldpausch, Keith Garber, Brian Graybill, Brandon Johnson, Tessa Johnson, Kathryn Kesler, Alice Kinney, Lauren Kirwin, Bret Lawrence, Joseph Longstreet, Megan Miller, Megan Morse, Jenna Nedbalek, Gabrielle Shipley, Ashley Shuster, Sarah Sleevi, Hannah Smith, Sarah Thornburgh, Meg Travis, Dalten White, Zachary Zwiernikowski. Rotary Honors — Anna Cooley, Megan Denny, Jennifer Feldpausch, Brian Graybill, Tessa Johnson, Kathryn Kesler, Joseph Longstreet, Sarah Sleevi, Sarah Thornburgh, Zachary Zwiernikowski. Kiwanis K Student of the Year nominees — Megan Denny, Brian Graybill, Kathryn Kesler. Exchange Club Student of the Year nominees — Katherine Coenen, Megan Denny, Brian Graybill, Tessa Johnson, Kathryn Kesler, Joseph Longstreet, Sarah Sleevi, Sarah Thornburgh. LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Erin Merritt, a single woman and John F. Merritt, a married man and Jane Merritt, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 18, 2008, and recorded on April 24, 2008 in instrument 20080424-0004444, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Chase Home Finance LLC as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thousand Five Hundred Twenty-Three and 17/100 Dollars ($100,523.17). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 21, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North 1/2 of Lot 997 and the East 1/2 of the North 1/2 of Lot 998 of City Formerly Village of Hastings, according to the Plat thereof recorded in Liber A of Plats, Page 1 of Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 24, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #340480F02 (05-24)(06-14) 77568078 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Darla L Slumkoski, a single woman individual, original mortgagor(s), to Arbor Mortgage, Mortgagee, dated May 31, 2007, and recorded on June 6, 2007 in instrument 1181356, and assigned by mesne assignments to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Nine Thousand Nine Hundred Twenty-Seven and 42/100 Dollars ($139,927.42). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 7, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at a point 4 rods East of the Southeast corner of lot 45 of the Village of Delton, for place of beginning; thence East 8 rods; thence North 4 rods; thence West 8 rods; thence South 4 rods to place of beginning, all being in the Northwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of section 5, Town 1 North, Range 9 West The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 10, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #276109F02 (05-10)(05-31) 77567647 SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by RANDY J. SILSBEE, A SINGLE MAN, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated November 22, 2006, and recorded on January 3, 2007, in Document No. 1174584, and assigned by said mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Five Thousand Three Hundred Seventy-Nine Dollars and Twelve Cents ($105,379.12), including interest at 7.000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on June 21, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: PART OF THE NORTHEAST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 7, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST, DESCRIBED AS: COMMENCING AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF SAID SECTION 7; THENCE SOUTH 88 DEGREES 34 MINUTES 16 SECONDS WEST 497.86 FEET ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SAID SECTION 7 TO THE POINT OF THE BGINNING; THENCE SOUTH 88 DEGREES 34 MINUTES 16 SECONDS WEST 248.83 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 2 DEGREES 38 MINUTES 38 SECONDS EAST 262.69 FEET PARALLEL WITH THE EAST LINE OF SAID SECTION 7; THENCE NORTH 88 DEGREES 34 MINUTES 16 SECONDS EAST 248.83 FEET; THENCE NORTH 2 DEGREES 38 MINUTES 38 SECONDS WEST 262.60 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 JPMC.000277 (05-24)(06-14) AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTIFY US AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by Michael C Dunlap , a married man, Mortgagors, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc (MERS) as nominee for Providence Mortgage Company, Mortgagee, dated the 22nd day of February, 2008 and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, for The County of Barry and State of Michigan, on the 3rd day of March, 2008 in Liber instrument No. 20080303-0001940 of Barry County Records, page , said Mortgage having been assigned to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. on which mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, the sum of One Hundred Four Thousand Six Hundred Forty and 34/100 ($104,640.34), and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on the 7th day of June, 2012 at 1:00 o’clock PM Local Time, said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI (that being the building where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held), of the premises described in said mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due, as aforesaid on said mortgage, with interest thereon at 5.875% per annum and all legal costs, charges, and expenses, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sum or sums which may be paid by the undersigned, necessary to protect its interest in the premises. Which said premises are described as follows: All that certain piece or parcel of land, including any and all structures, and homes, manufactured or otherwise, located thereon, situated in the Village of Nashville, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and described as follows, to wit: Lot 85 of Mix Addition to Nashville, according to the plat thereof recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, page 69 of Barry County Records. During the six (6) months immediately following the sale, the property may be redeemed, except that in the event that the property is determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241a, the property may be redeemed during 30 days immediately following the sale. Pursuant to MCLA 600.3278, the mortgagor(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 5/10/2012 JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Mortgagee ____________ FABRIZIO & BROOK, P.C. Attorney for JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. 888 W. Big Beaver, Suite 800 Troy, Ml 48084 248-362-2600 CHASE FHA GNMA DUNLAP (05-10)(05-31) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Denise T. Wolthuis, an unmarried woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 3, 2003, and recorded on July 28, 2003 in instrument 1109473, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Nineteen Thousand Two Hundred Sixteen and 94/100 Dollars ($119,216.94). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 14, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner, Northwest 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 20, Town 1 North, Range 10 West, Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan; thence East 23 rods to the point of beginning; thence East 516 feet; thence South 693 feet; thence West 516 feet; thence North to the point of beginning The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 17, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #403177F01 77567875 (05-17)(06-07) NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE OF MORTGAGE CHARLES J. HIEMSTRA IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE IN THE MILITARY, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER LISTED BELOW. Default has occurred in the conditions of a Mortgage (“Mortgage”) made by Rick A. VanDeWeg and Tracy VanDeWeg, husband and wife, of 5205 Hammond Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058-8936, Mortgagor, to Lake Michigan Credit Union, a state chartered credit union, having its principal office at 4027 Lake Drive SE, Suite 110, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49546, which Mortgage was dated July 30, 2008, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on August 5, 2008 at Instrument Number 20080805-0007965. By reason of this default, the Mortgagee hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of said Mortgage due and payable immediately. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on this Mortgage the sum of One Hundred Nine Thousand One Hundred Seventy-one and 68/100 Dollars ($109.171.68). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by this Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the Power of Sale contained in this Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, this Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part thereof, at public auction to the highest bidder at the East Steps of the Barry County Courthouse, 220 W. State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 that being the place of holding Circuit Court in said County, on Thursday, the 28th day of June, 2012, at 1:00 p.m. The premises covered by this Mortgage are located in the Township of Hope, County of Barry, State of Michigan and described as follows: Lots 3 and 4 of Casa-Del-Mar of Acker’s Point according to the plat thereof recorded in Liber 3 of Plats, Page 64 of Barry County Records. PP# 08-07-070-003-00 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale unless determined to be abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period will be as provided by MCLA 600.3241a. If this property is sold at a foreclosure sale by advertisement, during the period of redemption, borrower/mortgagor will be responsible to the purchaser under this Deed or to the mortgage holder for physical injury to the property beyond wear and tear resulting from the normal use of the property if the physical injury is caused by or at the direction of the borrower/mortgagor. Dated: May 23, 2012 LAKE MICHIGAN CREDIT UNION MORTGAGEE THIS INSTRUMENT PREPARED BY: Charles J. Hiemstra (P-24332) Attorney for Mortgagee 125 Ottawa Ave., NW, Suite 310 Grand Rapids, MI 49503 (616) 235-3100 77568132 77567673 LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT PUBLICATION OF NOTICE OF HEARING FILE NO. 12-26109-NC In the matter of Ethan Douglas McClanahan to change to Ethan Douglas Duby. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS including: Jessica Duby only - no father, whose address(es) are unknown and whose interest in the matter may be barred or affected by the following: TAKE NOTICE: A hearing will be held on 6/21/12 at 1:30 p.m. at 206 W. Court St., 3rd floor, Hastings, 49058 before Judge William Doherty 41960 for the following purpose: To change my son’s last name to mine as I was artificially inseminated and gave him my ex-girlfriend’s last name and I want it to be mine. Date: 5/23/12 Jessica Duby 342 Donna Dr. Lake Odessa, MI 48849 77568243 616-902-6897 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Joan Patricia Leos, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Lansing Automakers Federal CU, Mortgagee, dated August 27, 2002, and recorded on September 6, 2002 in instrument 1086940, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Six Thousand Seventy-Eight and 99/100 Dollars ($86,078.99). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 7, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Woodland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 7 and 8 of Block 9 of the Village of Woodland, according to the recorded Plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 10, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #383088F01 (05-10)(05-31) 77567656 FORECLOSURE NOTICE RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES, P.C. MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. Mortgage Sale - Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by Vicky Root, and Douglas C Root, wife and husband to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. acting solely as a nominee for Quicken Loans Inc., Mortgagee, dated November 17, 2006, and recorded on December 5, 2006, as Document Number: 1173504, Barry County Records, said mortgage was assigned to Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee of the Home Equity Mortgage Loan Asset-Backed Trust Series INABS 2007-B, Home Equity Mortgage Loan AssetBacked Certificates, Series INABS 2007-B under the Pooling and Servicing agreement dated June 1, 2007 by an Assignment of Mortgage dated April 19, 2012 and recorded April 26, 2012 by Document Number: 201204260004904, , on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Three Thousand One Hundred Ninety-Four and 20/100 ($93,194.20) including interest at the rate of 6.62500% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the Circuit Court in said Barry County, where the premises to be sold or some part of them are situated, at 01:00 PM on June 21, 2012 Said premises are situated in the Township of CASTLETON, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 31, TOWN 3 NORTH, RANGE 7 WEST Commonly known as: 3494 S MORGAN RD If the property is eventually sold at foreclosure sale, the redemption period will be 6.00 months from the date of sale unless the property is abandoned or used for agricultural purposes. If the property is determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 and/or 600.3241a, the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of sale, or 15 days after statutory notice, whichever is later. If the property is presumed to be used for agricultural purposes prior to the date of the foreclosure sale pursuant to MCL 600.3240, the redemption period is 1 year. Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages are, if any, limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: May 24, 2012 Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee of the Home Equity Mortgage Loan Asset-Backed Trust Series INABS 2007-B, Home Equity Mortgage Loan AssetBacked Certificates, Series INABS 2007-B under the Pooling and Servicing agreement dated June 1, 2007 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302, (248) 335-9200 Case 77568115 No. 12MI01177-1 (05-24)(06-14) Synopsis HOPE TOWNSHIP Special Board Meeting May 24, 2012 All Board members present. No guests. Special meeting opened at 6 p.m. Approved: Agenda Previous Minutes Approved Attorney action Adjourned at 6:17 p.m. Submitted by: Deborah Jackson, Clerk Attested to by Patricia Albert, Supervisor 77568298 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Steven Elenbaas and Lynda Elenbaas, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 20, 2009, and recorded on May 6, 2009 in instrument 20090506-0004870, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Freedom Mortgage Corporation as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-Three Thousand One Hundred Ninety-Three and 07/100 Dollars ($163,193.07). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 21, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North 1/2 of Lots 49 and 50 on Thornapple Riverside, Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 55. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 24, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #334970F02 77568085 (05-24)(06-14) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on October 26, 2007, by Scott C. Mueller, a single man, as Mortgagor, given by him to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on October 26, 2007, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 20071026-0003530, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank on June 3, 2011, recorded on June 13, 2011, in Instrument Number 201106130005798, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of One Hundred Five Thousand One Hundred Thirty and 66/100 Dollars ($105,130.66); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, July 5, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF BALTIMORE, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: That part of the Southeast quarter of Section 4, Town 2 North, Range 8 West, lying South of the highway running East and West through said quarter Section, except therefrom: Commencing at the Southeast corner of said Section 4; thence North on Section line 9.25 Chains to the center of said highway; thence North 85 Degrees West along the center of said highway 10.37 Chains; thence South 10.10 Chains to the South Section line; thence East on said Section Line 10.34 Chains to place of beginning. Also excepting therefrom: Commencing at the South quarter Post of Section 4, Town 2 North, Range 8 West, thence North along the North-South quarter line to the center of Mixer Road; thence East 620 Feet; thence South parallel with the North-South quarter line to the South Section line of said Section 4; thence West 620 Feet to place of beginning. Commonly known as: 1634 Mixer Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058 Parcel Number: 08-02-004-452-00 The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: May 29, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933 (517) 371-8253 (05-31)(06-21) 77568304 �Page 14 — Thursday, May 31, 2012 — The Hastings Banner CRASH, continued from page 1 COURT NEWS Samantha Ann Wielenga, 18, of Middleville, was sentenced May 23 for unlawful use of a motor vehicle. Wielenga was ordered to serve six months in jail, with credit for 74 days served. She must pay $1,198 in assessments and serve 36 months on probation. Charges of unlawful driving away of a motor vehicle and operating with driver’s license suspended, revoked or denied were dropped. Sarah Lynn Naylor, 34, of Hastings was sentenced for possession of methamphetamines and use of narcotics or cocaine. Naylor was order to serve six months in jail with credit for 22 days served. She must pay $1,098 in court assessments and serve 36 months on probation. Naylor’s driver’s license is suspended and she must pay $70 months toward court assessments. The balance of her jail time will be suspended upon successful completion of drug court. She also must obtain her GED. A charge of operating or maintaining a laboratory involving methamphetamine was dropped. May 23 for operating a vehicle with the presence of controlled substances and operating under the influence of liquor, third offense. Adams, of Hastings, was ordered to serve 12 months in jail, with credit for one day served. He must pay $5,698 in court assessments, and restitution is to be determined. Adams must also participate in drug court and serve 60 months on probation. He must pay $150 per month toward assessments after leaving jail. A charge of operating under the influence causing death was dismissed by the court. The charge originated with a Sept. 13, 2010, traffic accident in which a motorcycle rider reportedly traveling at approximately 100 miles per hour hit Adams’ vehicle and died. Kendra Ann Shannon, 28, was sentenced May 23 for assaulting, resisting or obstructing a police officer and for a probation violation. Shannon, of Middleville, was ordered to serve six months in jail, with credit for 65 days served. She must pay $2,019 in court assessments. The balance of her jail sentence will be suspended upon successful completion of a residential treatment program. Carlton Vur Adams, 63, was sentenced Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 For Sale Automotive AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 GO METAL IS buying unwanted vehicles. Paying cash. Call for quote (269)8304842. www.gometal.net Estate Sale ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. Lawn & Garden AQUATIC PLANTS: OUR Lotus & Water Lilies are ready! Also Koi & Goldfish, pumps, filters & pond supplies. APOLS WATER GARDENS, 9340 Kalamazoo, Caledonia MI. (616)6981030 M-F 9:00-5:30, Sat 9:002:00. For Rent HOUSE FOR RENT, 1475 Welcome Road. $1,200 month, $1,000 down security deposit. On 10 acres. Call (269)945-3489. SMOKE FREE 1 BDRM Low income housing for those age 50 and over. Friends and fun events! Potlucks, bowling, cards... Rent based on income. Call Lincoln Meadow EHO (269)795-7715 M-F 9-4 Business Services BASEMENT WATERPROOFING: PROFESSIONAL BASEMENT SERVICES waterproofing, crack repair, mold remediation. Local/licensed. Free estimates. (517)290-5556. BOOKKEEPING SERVICES Personal * Self-Employed * Small Business Payroll * Billing Accounts Receivable * Accounts Payable General Ledger Weekly * Monthly * Quarterly * Annually Call today! (269)420-5714 THE DETAIL WORKS, ask about our buffing and touch up services. Typically cheaper than body shops. 44 years experience. Monday-Saturday, 8:00am-5:00pm. CUSTODIANS AND SUPERVISORS needed in the (269)948-0958. Hastings area. Looking for cleaners with reliable transNational Ads portation and ability to pass THIS PUBLICATION a criminal/drug screening. DOES NOT KNOWINGLY Apply online at accept advertising which is www.dmburr.com under the deceptive, fraudulent or facilities management page. might otherwise violate law EOE or accepted standards of taste. However, this publicaCommunity Notices tion does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of COME SUPPORT WEST any advertisement, nor the ELEMENTARY STUDENT quality of goods or services FUND GOLF SCRAMBLE, advertised. Readers are cau- June 9th, Grand Ledge tioned to thoroughly investi- Meadows, 1801 E. Grand gate all claims made in any Ledge Highway, Grand advertisements, and to use Ledge. Shotgun start is good judgment and reasona- 9:00am. Cost: $260 for 4 perble care, particularly when son team, 18 holes w/cart, dealing with persons un- choice of chicken or steak known to you ask for money dinner, 2 drink tickets, in advance of delivery of brats/hot dogs at turn, door goods or services advertised. prizes, hole prizes, etc. Send money, names, address, phone number to Lori PotIn Memoriam ter at 7769 Woodland Road, IN LOVING MEMORY Lake Odessa, 48849. Quesof tions call 269)838-5865. Steven Hankamp Deadline: June 1st, 2012. 1950 to June 2nd 2011 TEAMS NEEDED! We love and miss you. VENDORS WANTED for Love Anne, flea market every Scott, Jen, Bryce, Ron and Friday/Saturday. Four acres Kylee of parking! Concession trailer on site. Call 517-667-6866. Garage Sale EXTRA EXTRA READ ALL ABOUT IT! Huge garage sale at 105 S. Irving (M179 to right on Irving, 1/4 mile, 5th house on right). Early sales on Thursday, May 31st, 4pm-9pm, Friday, June 1st, 8am-5pm. Huge selection of Stampin-Up stamp sets & accessories, scrapbook supplies. Twin bed, lots of bedding, computer desk, flat screen computer monitors, weight bench, gocart, patio furniture, football equipment, games, VHS movies, oak entertainment center, garden tractor, bikes, Wii console w/30 games (Rock Band, Wii Fitness). Lots & lots of name brand clothes, various sizes (boys, girls, men & women). RN/LPN Private Duty Immediate Openings Nashville, Marshall, Springport, Jackson Various Shifts Available Trach and Vent Experience Preferred Please email resume to: 77568292 HIGH EFFICIENCY CLASSIC- Outdoor Wood Furnace from Central Boiler. 25 year warranty. Call SOS your “Stocking Dealer” Dutton Mi (616)554-8669 or (616)9155061. Help Wanted 25 DRIVER TRAINEES Needed NOW! Become a driver for Schneider National! Earn $750 per week! No experience needed! Local CDL Training! Job ready in 15 days! 1-877-649-2697. Recreation WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are interested in leasing acreage for this years deer season. Call (269)795-3049 Wanted BUYING OLD POCKET watches, old wind up wrist watches, working or not working. Call George (616)916-8271 BUYING WWII, WWI, Civil War uniforms, weapons, helmets, bayonets, German, Japanese, and American. Call George (616)916-8271 PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. recruiter@optimalstaffing.com or fax to: 517-394-7716 77564784 Barnes said her husband, Jim, and two other men, who jumped out of their vehicles, ran to the Jeep to help. “All three men must have received minor burns,” said Barnes. Jim Barnes, who pulled Eckhoff out of the driver’s side window, lost all the hair on his hands, arms and part of his eyebrows and the hair on his head. The hot tires on the Jeep started to explode, she explained, and everyone was worried the gas tank also would catch fire and explode. When Eckhoff, was safely placed on shady ground away from the burning wreck, a nurse stepped out of another vehicle to help. According to Karen Barnes, neighbors pulled together and started bringing cold water and wet towels for the girl. As a precaution, firefighters watered down the field across the road where the helicopter was scheduled to land, Barnes said. Eckhoff was airlifted to Bronson Hospital for treatment of burns and a broken left femur. One news report stated Eckhoff suffered burns to 25 percent of her body. She is reportedly in fair condition. “All our neighbors were awesome,” said Barnes. “When Jessica was on the stretcher headed for the helicopter, everyone held umbrellas over her to keep her out of the sun.” Rogers suffered a concussion, while Roth suffered a bruised elbow. TKHS Principal Tony Koski said both Roth and Rogers were back at school Wednesday. Eckhoff suffered burns to her legs, arms and back, he said, and had undergone surgery Tuesday on her leg. The driver of the pickup and a passenger were taken to Pennock Hospital in Hastings for treatment of minor injuries. Jim Barnes declined to be interviewed, and, according to his wife, doesn’t like being in the spotlight. “He’s just a quiet guy, and he feels so many people helped during the accident, he shouldn’t be singled out,” said Karen Barnes. The other two men who first ran to the Jeep were unknown to Barnes. One was in a blue T-shirt, the other wore a red T-shirt. She later learned the man in the blue T-shirt was a welder from Holland, who was on his way to Hastings. The man in the red T-shirt disappeared after Eckhoff was safely pulled from the flames. According to the Barry County Sheriff’s Department, the accident is still under investigation, and no more information is available, including the names of the drivers. M-37 was completely closed for approximately four hours Sunday afternoon. With temperatures near 90 and traffic stopped, Barnes said neighbors started bringing cold drinks to travelers and emergency workers. “As bad as everything was, it seemed everything miraculously came together,” said Barnes. “God was watching out.” Special Olympics tax check-off passes House and Senate Legislation that would create an income tax check-off was approved by the Michigan Senate on Wednesday, said Sen. Rick Jones, R-Grand Ledge. Senate Bill 381, sponsored by Jones, and House Bill 4632 sponsored by state Rep. Kevin Cotter, R- Mt. Pleasant, create a checkoff box on state income tax returns that would allow taxpayers to easily donate money to help fund Special Olympics Michigan athletes. “As a long-time chaperone to Special Olympics Michigan, I know how important this program is to the athletes and their families,” Jones said. “This legislation will make it easier for people to voluntarily donate to this great organization.” “We are so appreciative of Senator Jones and Representative Cotter ushering this legislation through the state Legislature,” said Special Olympics Michigan President and CEO Lois Arnold. “Senator Jones and Representative Cotter know firsthand the positive impact of Special Olympics programs in the lives of our athletes and their families. Special Olympics Michigan offers a year-round program that promotes physical fitness and healthy lifestyles while also working to build a culture of inclusiveness and acceptance of those with intellectual disabilities.” “As the representative from Mt. Pleasant, where Special Olympics Michigan is based, it has been a privilege to sponsor legislation creating this income tax check-off benefitting nearly 20,000 athletes,” said Cotter. “I’m looking forward to spending time with athletes at State Summer Games, which kick off on the campus of Central Michigan University tomorrow.” Special Olympics Michigan provides opportunities for children and adults with intellectual disabilities to experience physical fitness, inclusion, joy, and friendship through year-round athletic training and competition. Special Olympics Michigan gets no state funding. The programs exist because of the support of sponsors, donors and fundraisers. Any costs for administering this check-off program would come directly from the money raised with the program. It would not cost taxpayers any money. POLICE BEAT Video shows user of stolen debit card Hastings Police received a call May 22 from the owner of a stolen debit card. The 60-year-old man recalled he had accidentally left his debit card in an automatic teller machine. He had learned the card was being used around the Hastings area. Purchases had been made at Family Fare, Tractor Supply, BP Gas station, Seasonal Grille and Second Hand Corners — to the sum of about $1,500. Video obtained from security cameras has already helped to identify the suspect, who is not cooperating with police. The investigation is ongoing. Woodcutter is made offer he can’t refuse Deputies responded to a report of a man with a gun on Lindsey Road near Delton May 4. The caller alleged that a 67-year-old Delton man had pointed a handgun at him after an argument about a bill. The complainant said he had worked for a week cutting wood for the man. The woodcutter said the Delton man only paid him part of the agreed-on price for his work and they had started arguing about the rest of the money. The man said at that point, the subject pulled a handgun from a desk drawer and placed it on the desk. Reportedly, the brown and silver pistol was pointed across the desk at him. The subject then made the complainant sign a document stating payment was satisfactory. No words were spoken about the gun during the incident. The subject told deputies he never brandished the weapon at the man, and in fact, he doesn’t even own a gun. Deputies searched the desk, residence and barn. No firearms were found. The case is being reviewed by the prosecutor. Driver crashes, but not sure what or where Hastings officers were dispatched May 26 around 4 a.m. to the 200 block of West State Road where a vehicle reportedly had been abandoned. Officers determined the car had sustained a significant amount of damage. After running the registration plate and checking the address of the owner, officers located a male who then apologized for crashing the vehicle. The 20-year-old Hastings man then admitted to colliding with something, but did not recall what it was or where, and could not recall where he had abandoned his car. After failing several roadside tests registering a .217 percent blood alcohol level, the man was arrested. Officers later determined that the subject had run over several mailboxes and a road sign on East State Street. Several mailboxes outside of the city limits also were reported as being destroyed. Spouses do not share same memories Deputies were dispatched to a domestic altercation May 20 on South Main Street in Woodland. Reportedly, the 43-year-old man showed deputies bite marks on his stomach and abrasions to his scrotum. He said his wife had returned home intoxicated, woke him up and began yelling at him. She told him he was moving out and her brother was moving in. The man told deputies he was surprised and as he got out of bed, he accidentally brushed his wife’s face with his hand. He said his wife then grabbed him by the scrotum and bit his stomach. When questioned, the woman said she was locked out of the house after arriving home from the bar. She yelled until her husband woke up and opened the door. They had an argument at the door and it was then, she said, that he slapped her so hard she fell down. On the way to the ground, she said, she grabbed him by the scrotum and he fell to the ground, too. It was then that she bit him in the stomach, but only because, she said, he was pulling her hair. The woman registered a .11 percent blood alcohol level, and the man registered .12 percent. The case is pending prosecutor’s review. Naked man gets attention of police Hastings officers were called May 27 to South Hanover Street on a report of indecent exposure in the 600 block of South Hanover Street. Officers were told that two women had seen a man standing on his front porch completely naked. The two women had reportedly been talking in the driveway when the man across the street became illuminated by a porch light being repeatedly turned off and on. Officers attempted to make contact with the man as well as a woman inside the home — who were heard arguing — but the two refused to answer the door. One officer saw the man through a window and overheard the two calling each other by name. The officers have identified the subject. A report has been forwarded to the prosecutor’s office requesting criminal charges of indecent exposure. Trio will have opportunities to kill time Deputies arrived at the Hastings Walmart May 5 in time to see Walmart personnel stop three individuals as they exited the store without paying for items. Upon inspection, the three were carrying a bag with several items that had been de-packaged. The trio was escorted to the patrol vehicle. With further investigation, deputies determined the 19-year-old Lansing woman also had two felony warrants, and the 21year-old Lansing man had two outstanding misdemeanor warrants. When questioned, the man said they were just “killing time” at Walmart. The woman told deputies it was just easier to take the items than to pay for them. The third subject, a 18-year-old Lake Odessa woman, told deputies she had just put items in the cart and was a lookout while the other woman took items out of the packages and put them in the bag. The $162 worth of merchandise was recovered and the three subjects were arrested on charges of retail fraud. Attacker walks away – twice Hastings officers were called to the 200 block of North Park Street May 27 for a reported domestic assault in progress. Witnesses reported overhearing an argument between a man and a woman and someone being struck. Further investigation revealed the 25-year-old woman left shortly after the 27-year-old man had walked away from the scene. Officers verified that an assault had occurred and took the victim’s statement. Later that night, officers were again dispatched to the residence. The Hastings man had returned and assaulted the woman, but left before officers arrived. The suspect was located and taken into custody without further incident. Shiny object attracts thief A Hastings man reported to Barry County deputies May 12 that several items were missing from his garage on Wertman Road. There were no signs of forced entry. Chrome from his 1959 Edsel was taken, along with a 50-foot extension cord and a four-inch grinder. There were no suspects or leads. Suspects wanted for more than questioning Deputies went to a Davenport Road residence in Woodland May 22 to investigate a complaint of four missing chainsaws. The homeowner said the chainsaws had been in her barn. She suspected two men of taking the saws, one of whom had several bench warrants for his arrest. When trying to locate the other suspect, a neighbor informed the deputy that state troopers also were looking for the man. According to the complainant, the man had also been talking of selling some chainsaws. The saws are valued at $1,000. Deputies have not been able to locate either suspect for an interview. The case is closed pending potential leads. Elbow takes the brunt of argument Deputies responded to a 911 hang-up call from a Ferris Road residence in Johnstown Township May 26. Dispatchers said the call sounded like a man and woman arguing and that both parties might be intoxicated. Upon arrival, deputies determined the woman had dialed 911 and was arguing with her 54year-old husband. The woman said her husband had been drinking and then went to sleep. When he awoke, she said he “went off” on her for purchasing a pool. She said the man back-handed her twice to her elbow. Deputies noticed the woman was highly intoxicated and her blood alcohol level registered .23 percent. The man denied touching his wife and said he didn’t know why the police were in his house. He admitted to drinking beer and whiskey all Continued next page �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 31, 2012 — Page 15 Hastings Exchange Club announces May Young Citizens Hastings Middle School Young Citizens for May are (from left) Daniel Garcia, Olivia Mead, Elliza Tolles, Thomas Patterson and Jacob Wilgus. Central Elementary School’s Young Citizens for May are Shannon Culp (left) and Cody Murphy, pictured with teacher Jill Smith. Keely Jackson (left) and Jeffrey Morgan are Northeastern’s Young Citizens for May. They are joined by teachers Don Schils and Alice Gergen. St. Rose sixth grader Sam James, named his school’s Young Citizen for the month of May, is joined by teacher Amy Murphy. POLICE BEAT, continued from previous page Hailey Pacillo (left) and Katie Metzner, pictured here with teacher Trisha Kietzman, are the Young Citizens for May at Southeastern Elementary School. day, but refused a portable breath test. The case remains open. Man’s deficit is his attention to baggie A 23-year-old Kalamazoo man was stopped on South Broadway at Sherwood Drive in Hastings May 24. Deputies saw a white vehicle cross Clinton Street on South Broadway and continue south out of the city limits, exceeding the speed limit. The deputy ran the license plates and found an outstanding misdemeanor warrant on the vehicle’s registered owner for possession of marijuana. The driver was stopped, identified and placed under arrest. He gave authorities permission to search his vehicle and said there was a lit- Call anytime to place your Hastings Banner ad tle marijuana in the center console of the car. Police service dog Kyro also located orange pills wrapped in a baggie. The subject identified the pills as Adderall, which is prescribed for narcolepsy and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. The report was forwarded to the prosecutor’s office. 269-967-8241 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 77568200 77568206 77568328 Named Young Citizens for May at Star Elementary School are Hope Peck (left) and Lauren Hardin, joined here by teacher Julie Carlson. Over 64,000 Papers Distributed Every Week! 1351 N. M-43 Highway • P.O. Box 188 Hastings, MI 49058 Phone (269) 945-9554 • Fax (269) 945-5192 77568203 • Lakewood News • Maple Valley News • Middleville-Caledonia Sun & News • Reminder • Hastings Banner 77568194 77568197 Reporting History for the Future in 6 Barry County Area Newspapers �Page 16 — Thursday, May 31, 2012 — The Hastings Banner State News Roundup BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY and white ruffed lemurs are an endangered species said Jenny Barnett, director of conservation and education. Currently, Binder Park Zoo has one breeding pair of black and white ruffed lemurs and hopes to have more births in the future to help increase this species’ captive population. The mother is taking good care of them and the family is now going out on exhibit, said Barnett. “This is an exciting time for us [since] this is only the second time in 35 years that we have had ruffed lemurs born here,” she added. “The fact that Phin had triplets and they are all thriving is amazing.” by Gerald Stein State of disaster declared in U.P. due to wildfires Gov. Rick Snyder Friday declared a state of disaster in the Upper Peninsula counties of Luce and Schoolcraft to make available all state resources to protect public health and safety in ongoing efforts to battle wildfires already engulfing more than 21,000 acres. The Michigan departments of natural resources, state police and transportation have already deployed resources, equipment and personnel to the affected areas to help contain the wildfires, block roadways and coordinate response efforts in partnership with local and federal agencies. The Michigan Army National Guard has activated an aviation support element and personnel. As of Wednesday, the fire was estimated to be 21,450 acres in size and was 55 percent contained. Landowners who have structures within the fire perimeter and who have not contacted the DNR are urged to call 800-338-1119. The latest estimate showed 138 properties within the perimeter of the fire. Ninety-nine properties have been inspected. The structure losses include 41 homes or cabins, 22 garages, 27 sheds or outbuildings, 25 campers, one store and one motel. Tahquamenon Falls State Park, which had been closed due to danger posed by the fire, reopened Wednesday. Hiking trails north of M-123, including the North Country Trail, will remain closed. Binder Park Zoo celebrates births Phin and John, Binder Park Zoo’s pair of black and white ruffed lemurs, have their hands full. Phin, a 7-year old female, gave birth to three healthy black and white ruffed lemur babies Sunday, April 29, at the Battle Creek zoo. This is a significant birth since the black Nearly 50 counties under burning ban A declaration signed Friday by the governor establishes a fireworks ban in Luce and Schoolcraft counties and an outdoor burning ban in 49 counties. The 49 counties affected by the outdoor burning ban are Alger, Baraga, Chippewa, Delta, Dickinson, Gogebic, Houghton, Iron, Keweenaw, Luce, Mackinac, Marquette, Menominee, Ontonagon, Schoolcraft in the U.P., and the Lower Peninsula counties of Alcona, Alpena, Antrim, Arenac, Bay, Benzie, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Clare, Crawford, Emmet, Gladwin, Grand Traverse, Iosco, Isabella, Kalkaska, Lake, Leelanau, Manistee, Mason, Mecosta, Midland, Missaukee, Montmorency, Muskegon, Newaygo, Oceana, Ogemaw, Osceola, Oscoda, Otsego, Presque Isle, Roscommon and Wexford. Consumers Energy conducting session on solar power Consumers Energy will conduct an information session Wednesday, June 6, in Traverse City for residential electric customers interested in learning about customer- installed solar energy systems. The session will be at the Aero Park campus of Northwestern Michigan College. The session is free of charge, open to the public and will take place from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Speakers during the session will provide information on how customers can install their own solar energy systems as part of Consumers Energy’s Experimental Advanced Renewable Program. Reservations for this session and information about the program are available at www.consumersenergy.com/EARP. Amway receives state support for new facility The Michigan Economic Development Corporation has announced Michigan Strategic Fund approval of a $1.6 million Michigan Business Development Program incentive for Amway Corp. to build a new facility in Ada Township, a project that will generate up to $80.95 million in new private investment and add up to 200 new jobs. Ada Township has offered support to the project in the form of a 12-year tax abatement. “Amway, with more than 4,000 employees currently in Michigan, is a major employer in our state, and its decision to expand here says much about our improved business climate,” said MEDC President and CEO Michael A. Finney. “Amway’s continued commitment sends a message that will be heard around the world that Michigan’s highly competitive business climate and tremendous workforce capabilities mean real opportunities for leading edge businesses.” The Michigan Business Development Program provides grants, loans and other economic assistance to qualified businesses that make investments or create jobs in Michigan, with preference given to businesses that need additional assistance for deal-closing and for second-stage gap financing. For more on the MEDC and its initiatives, visit: www.MichiganAdvantage.org. SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN Do members of Congress have to pay into Social Security? Yes, they do. Members of Congress, the president and vice president, federal judges and most political appointees, have paid taxes into the Social Security program since January 1984. They pay into the system just like everyone else, no matter how long they have been in office. How do I change my citizenship status on Social Security’s records? To change citizenship shown on our records you will need to complete and print a new “Application For A Social Security Card” (Form SS-5) from the website www.socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber/ss5.htm. In addition, you will need to show documents to prove age, identity and new or revised citizenship status (only certain documents can be accepted as proof of citizenship. These include your U.S. passport, a certificate of naturalization, or a certificate of citizenship. If you are not a U.S. citizen, Social Security will ask to see your current immigration documents). Take or mail the completed application and documents to a local Social Security office. All documents must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. We cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents. For more information, visit www.socialsecurity.gov. How long does it take to complete the online application for Social Security retirement benefits? It can take as little as 15 minutes to complete the online application. In most cases, once your application is submitted electronically, you’re done. There are no forms to sign and usually no documentation to mail in. Social Security will process your application and contact you if any further information is needed. There’s no need to drive to a local Social Security office or wait for an appointment with a Social Security representative. To retire online, go to the website. I have never worked, but my spouse has. What will my Social Security benefit be? You can be entitled to as much as one-half of your spouse’s benefit amount if you start your benefits when you reach full retirement age. If you want to get Social Security retirement benefits before you reach full retirement age, the amount of your benefit will be reduced. The amount of reduction depends on when you will reach full retirement age. For example, if your full retirement age is 66, you can get 35 percent of your spouse’s unreduced benefit at age 62. The amount of your benefit increases at later ages up to the maximum of 50 percent if you retire at full retirement age. However, if you are taking care of a child who is under age 16 or who gets Social Security disability benefits, you get full benefits, regardless of your age. Learn more at www.socialsecurity.gov/retire2/yourspouse.htm. My mother receives Supplemental Security Income benefits. She may have to enter a nursing home later this year. How does this affect her SSI benefits? Moving to a nursing home can affect your mother’s SSI benefits, but it depends on the type of facility. In some cases, the SSI payment may be reduced or stopped. Whenever your mother enters or leaves a nursing home, assisted living facility, hospital, skilled nursing facility or any other kind of institution, it is important that you tell Social Security. Call toll-free 800-772-1213. We can answer specific questions from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. We also provide information by automated phone service 24 hours a day. What are the limits on what I can own to be eligible for Supplemental Security Income ? Social Security counts real estate, bank accounts, cash, stocks and bonds toward the limits on what you can own. You may be able to get SSI if your resources are worth no more than $2,000. A couple may be able to get SSI if they have resources worth no more than $3,000. If you own property you are trying to sell, you may be able to get SSI while trying to sell it. Social Security does not count everything you own in deciding whether you have too many resources to qualify for SSI. For example, we generally do not count the home you live in and the land it is on; life insurance policies with a face value of $1,500 or less; your vehicle; burial plots for you and immediate family; and up to $1,500 in burial funds for you and up to $1,500 in burial funds for your spouse. Learn more at www.socialsecurity.gov/ssi. I currently receive Social Security disability benefits. I now have a second serious disability. Can my monthly benefit amount be increased? No. Although your Social Security disability benefit eligibility is based on having a severe disability, the benefit amount is based on the amount of your lifetime earnings before your disability began and not the number, degree or severity of your disability. For more information, visit www.socialsecurity.gov/dibplan/dapproval2.htm . Is there a time limit on how long I can collect Social Security disability benefits? Your disability benefits will continue as long as your medical condition has not improved and you remain unable to work. Your case will be reviewed at regular intervals to make sure you still are disabled. If you still are receiving disability benefits when you reach full retirement age, we will automatically convert them to retirement benefits. See www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10153.html#6 for more information on disability. My mom is interested in getting help with her Medicare Part D prescription costs, but she has about $10,000 in the bank. Would she still be eligible? Based solely on the bank account balance you mention, yes. However, there are other factors to consider, as well, including her income. If your mother has other resources, they may be included too. This year, a person’s total resources are, in most cases, limited to $13,070 (or $26,120 if married and living with spouse) to qualify for Extra Help with Medicare prescription drug costs. The resource limits shown on the application include a $1,500 per person exclusion for burial purposes. Resources include the value of the things you own, such as real estate (other than the place you live), cash, bank accounts, stocks, bonds and retirement accounts like IRAs or 401(k) accounts. There are exceptions. Read more about how to qualify and apply for the Extra Help at www.socialsecurity.gov/prescriptionhelp/index.htm. HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, May 31 — Movie Memories presents the little gem, “The Wonderful World of the Grimm Brothers,” 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, June 1 — preschool story time enjoys stories about summer, 10:30 to 11 a.m. Monday, June 4 — summer reading program, “Dream Big, Read,” begins; Kathy Crane Art Exhibit opens; computer class learns about downloading ebooks and eaudio Books, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 5 — toddler story time enjoys stories about camping, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.; open chess club, 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, June 6 — Sustainability Fun and Facts, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.; library book club discusses Still Alice by Lisa Genova, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Call the Hastings Public Library for more information, 269-945-4263. NORTH N: K 7 M: 9 8 6 L: A Q 9 7 3 K: J 9 5 WEST N: J 9 5 M: J 10 7 5 2 L: K 2 K: 6 3 2 SOUTH: N: Q 4 2 M: A K 3 L: J 10 6 5 4 K: A 10 EAST N: A 10 8 6 3 M: Q 4 L: 8 K: K Q 8 7 4 Dealer: West Vulnerable: Both Lead: N J North East South Pass 3L 1N Pass 2L Pass West Pass Pass Pass In today’s column, let us look at a bad contract for North-South. With a 10-card fit in diamonds, the North-South team was content to play at three diamonds. Although they make three diamonds easily, they received a bad score compared to the other teams playing the same cards at other tables. What happened? Were they frightened off by East who bid one spade in third seat? For third position, most players know that they can open a bit lighter than the normal opening bid of 13 points. Is that what happened here? Let us see. East indeed did open a bit light, but to her credit, it was a good bid with 11 high card points and one for length. While her spades are not the best, a knowledgeable bridge player knows that if she doesn’t get the bid, at least her partner will have a lead to her spades. The lead indeed was the jack of spades from her partner. Where then did the North-South team go wrong? South has a solid 14 high card points in his hand and one for length in the diamond suit. His 2 diamond bid is a bit ragged with jack high, but at least we give him credit for bidding. West with five high card points and one for length might have ventured a two-spade bid, showing at least three spades and a minimum hand, and at some tables that is exactly what happened. At other tables, West passed without much effort. North with ten high card points and one for length supported the diamond bid by bidding three diamonds. The contract is set at three diamonds played by South. What did North-South miss? Counting the points in the North-South hand, it is easy to see that they have a total count of 25 points, enough in these bridge days to bid and make game in three different strains: spades, hearts, and no trump. There are definitely not enough points to make game in diamonds where 29 points usually are needed for the five-diamond bid, yet, on this hand, five diamonds is a possible game. What North-South missed, even though there was an intimidating bid by the EastWest team in spades, was a game in three no trump. Who missed the game for North-South? Or was it impossible to find? It appears that this is where a partnership agreement needs to be firmly established. Instead of being content to play three diamonds for a part score and, in this case, a decidedly poor score compared to others, it is up to the Responder to suggest no trump. A cue bid of two spades by North if West does not bid, or a cue bid of three spades by North if West does support her partner’s opening spade bid promises a limit raise of 10-11 points in the North hand. Or, alternately, North can bid two no trump, and North would play the hand as declarer in no trump. That is all that South needs to hear. With his 14 points and 10-11 points in his partner’s hand, it is easy for South to bid three no trump. Will it make? Three no trump by South (or North) will make all day long. With the jack of spades lead by West, South pauses and counts his winners. Five diamond tricks (a finesse is needed), one spade trick, two heart tricks, and one club trick will bring home the three no trump contract. Was it a risky bid for North-South to make? With some help in the spade suit (the king of spades), good diamonds, North can turn a safe three diamond contract into an invitation for South to consider and play the contract in three no trump. Instead of a bottom score, which is what they received for making three diamonds, they could have had the top score by bidding and making three no trump. Whenever there is a fit in a minor suit, consider playing the contract in no trump. You will be surprised at your success and your top score to boot. ***** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) Self-defense is not partisan The ability to defend oneself against a physical attack is a fundamental right recognized by the Michigan Constitution. The litmus test for determining when the use of deadly force is justified is whether a person honestly and reasonably believes he or she is in danger of imminent death or serious bodily harm, or rape. In 2006, I sponsored a bill that was part of the Self-Defense Act. This measure received bipartisan support and was signed into law by then-Gov. Jennifer Granholm. The Self-Defense, more commonly referred to as the “stand your ground law” allows individuals who fear their life is in danger to use deadly force against an attacker instead of retreating, as long as they are not committing any other crimes at the time. Citizens have every right to be able to protect themselves. Those who wish to do so with a concealed weapon must be trained and licensed to do so. This process involves an eight-hour class that explains in great detail when individuals have the legal right to protect themselves or their families. A movement to repeal this law is afoot, thus stripping citizens of the right to protects themselves and their families. The proposed changes would require citizens to retreat instead of defending themselves. Critics of the law believe it could lead to a situation similar to the Trayvon Martin killing in Florida, which has been mired in allegations of racial motivation and police incompetence. This is a perfect example of partisan politics, using a tragedy in Florida to amend laws here in Michigan. Crime can happen anywhere, which means citizens need to be able to defend themselves everywhere. This necessity is currently being threatened. In my 30 years in law enforcement, I dealt with my fair share of violent crimes. In many of these cases, retreating was not an option. As the law is written today, anyone who believes he or she is in danger of death or bodily harm has the right to self-defense. This is a law I helped to pass and one that will always have my full support. I emphatically believe that this law should not be changed, and I will do everything in my power to see that any attempts to repeal it are squelched. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 31, 2012 — Page 17 Body of teen recovered in Gun Lake with help from other counties by David DeDecker Staff Writer A 17-year-old Grand Rapids area resident drowned while swimming in Gun Lake Saturday afternoon. Jhalak Bhattarad and his family, who are originally from Nepal, along with two volunteers from the family’s church, had rented a pontoon boat for the weekend. Bhattarad reportedly was not an experienced swimmer, but he and two others were swimming in the lake where the water was about 40 feet deep. “The best I can understand, three of them were swimming at the same time,” said Orangeville Fire Chief Danny Boulter. “One of them tried to help the victim, but he pulled the other under. They threw a floatation device to him, but he couldn’t grab it before he went under.” Boulter said he believes it was simply a case of an inexperienced swimmer. Bhattarad was a sophomore at Kentwood High School. Someone from the boat called the store from which they had rented the boat. An employee came out to help, and that’s when 911 was called. Boulter said his department was then dispatched at around 3:15 p.m. Several boaters in the area also went to the site, trying to locate the victim. Boulter said a language barrier also created difficulty until someone associated with the family arrived to interpret. By the time the Barry County Sheriff’s Marine Division arrived, the boat had drifted due to the wind, and the drowning location was confused. Seven divers were available, and a search grid of 300 by 400 yards was established. Water visibility at the time was less than five feet. The sheriff’s department was assisted on Saturday by Yankee Springs, Thornapple and Orangeville townships emergency personnel. Even though the search was constant, the boy was not found Saturday. Sunday, the Kent County Sheriff’s Department assisted with an advanced sonar system. Only an old boat ladder was located. Before Bhattarad dove in the water Saturday, family members had been taking photos. They emailed photos to the Barry County Sheriff’s Department Sunday, in the hope it might help the divers. With the aid of the photos, deputies were able to pin-point the boat’s location around the time of the drowning. Staff from the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Department joined the search and brought its Gull Lake blanks Saxon girls’ soccer The Hastings’ varsity girls’ soccer season came to an end with a 5-0 loss against visiting Gull Lake in the first round of the Division 2 District Tournament Tuesday evening. The Saxons gave up a couple of early goals, then held out until the final 17 minutes when the Blue Devils found the back of the net three more times. “We just were shy on the offensive end, and couldn’t get many opportunities to even put us up on the board,” said Hastings head coach Sarah Smith. “We were attacking them pretty well in the first 20 minutes of the game, but then it was like a light switch. We sat back on our heels and let them come at us. You can’t play defense against a solid team like Gull Lake and expect to not get scored on.” Goalkeeper Bre Sinclair did her best to try and keep the team from getting scored upon. “If it wasn’t for Bre’s extra efforts, it could have been a mercy,” Smith said. “She made some saves we haven’t seen from her all season long, we just were lacking on the defensive support side.” A couple of mistakes by the Saxons led to the first two Blue Devil goals, but the Saxons held them scoreless for the final 25 minutes of the first half. Smith said her team stepped up its defensive efforts in the second half. It was the Saxons on the other end of a lopsided score last Wednesday, as they closed out the O-K Gold Conference tournament with an 8-0 win over Ottawa hills. “We had some fun with this game, by mixing up some positions and even letting all three goalkeepers play on the field,” Smith said. A combination of Collyn Shaeffer and Dallas McKay earned the shut out for the game in goal. Shaeffer also scored a goal. Hastings had eight different goal-scorers, with Haley Wagner, Jenny Feldpausch, Dani Meredith, Emily Macqueen, Megan Ziegler, Sinclair and Autumn Demott all finding the back of the net. Janelle Pifer, Feldpausch, Ziegler and Demott all had assists. “It was a fun game for the girls and a relaxing one after the previous two games,” Smith said. Family members wait onshore while volunteers search for 17-year-old Jhalak Bhattarad of Grand Rapids. Volunteers on boats help look for Jhalak Bhattarad before the marine patrol arrives. sonar equipment plus a diving robot equipped with GPS and camera. Within an hour of relocating the search area 300 yards to the southeast, the body was located. According to Capt. Bill Johnson of the Barry County Sheriff’s Department, cooperation and collaboration of numerous law enforcement, marine, and emergency agencies was the key to locating the body. Odd team breaks tie in sixth, wins Alumni Game by one The Odd team battled for two runs in the bottom of the sixth inning to break a 5-5 tie, then finished off a 7-6 victory over the Even years in the annual Hastings Alumni Baseball Game Monday at Johnson Field. The Even (graduating years) team rallied for one run in the seventh on a solo home run by Dylan Cuddahee, his second home run of the contest. A nice variety of veteran alumni and recent graduates returned to make it another successful game, which featured good fielding and timely hitting. Aaron Snider, Mark Brisboe and Roger Byykkonen pitched for the Odd team while Matt Moore and Cuddahee hurdled for the Even team. The defensive heroes were Andrew Courtright and Brandon Burke, who were behind the plate for their respective teams the entire game in the 92-degree heat. The award for the senior citizen of the game went to Rudy McPherson from the Odd team, who graduated in 1967. He traveled from Cadillac to play in the contest. The next veteran player was Doug Garrett, an assistant on the Saxon varsity coaching staff, who graduated in 1978. Hastings varsity baseball coach Marsh Evans said this will be the last year that former Saxon baseball coach Bernie Oom will organize the event. “Bernie has been a great coach in the Hastings School system,” said Evans. “He was a great teacher for over 20 years. He had a great program. He was a great mentor.” “A lot of people plan their Memorial Day weekends around playing in this game. Oom has organized the event for the last 36 years. Oom was happy to have help, from senior Aaron Snider who volunteered his services as the umpire for the game, and from Evans who prepared the field for the game and loaned the players equipment for the day. LARGE or small, We Ship It All! Next Time, Ship Your Luggage! We make it simple, convenient & stress-free. The Odd years team at Monday’s Hastings Alumni Game included (front from left) Mitchell Brisboe, Aaron Snider Jr, Dylan Downs, Andrew Courtright, Bernie Oom, (back) Brian Snider, Rudy McPherson, Trent Brisboe, Roger Byykkonen, and umpire Aaron Snider Sr. 1351 N.Broadway (M-43) - Hastings 269.945.9105 OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:00 - 5:30 The Even years team gets together during Monday’s Hastings Alumni Game at Johnson Field. Team members included (front from left) Brandon Burke, Dave Garrett, Eric Schiedel, Matt Moore, (back) Bernie Oom, David Kendall, Dylan Cuddahee, Shaun Raymond and Lee Nichols. �Page 18 — Thursday, May 31, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Hastings girls 13th in first trip to MITCA finals by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Hastings’ varsity girls’ track and field team relied on some talented athletes and a lot of depth all season long. The Saxons ran into some teams with a lot of depth and a lot of talent Saturday. Hastings was 13th at the MITCA Division 2 Championship at Jenison High School, where each team is allowed to enter three athletes into each individual event and one team in each of the four relays and everyone who finishes scores. The Saxons’ top finish was in the high jump, where Rachel Quillen was part of a seven-way tie for fourth place. She cleared 5 feet. Teammate Katy Garber also cleared 5-0, finishing in a tie for 13th. Hastings had four other top ten finishes. The Saxons’ Brie Sheldon (center) races towards the finish line in the 100-meter hurdle race during the Division 2 MITCA Championship at Jenison High School Saturday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Hastings’ Selinda Arechiga races along in during the 3200-meter run Saturday at the Division 2 MITCA Championship in Jenison. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The Saxons’ Katy Garber flies through the air in the long jump during the Division 2 MITCA Championship at Jenison High School Saturday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The best finish on the track came from Grace Bosma, who was seventh in the 800-meter run in 2 minutes 27.21 seconds. Trista Straube was ninth in the 1600-meter run in 5:25.56, and Nikki Redman was ninth in the 300-meter hurdles in 49.21. The best relay finish for the Saxons came in the 3200-meter event, in which the team of Straube, Amanda Sarhatt, Rachel Rimer and Bosma finished fourth in 10:20.40. Hamilton won the D2 girls’ team state championship with 1629 points. Dearborn Divine Child was second with 1550, followed by DeWitt 1526.5, Williamston 1350, Grand Rapids Christian 1201.5, Zeeland West 1074.5, Chippewa Hills 1060.5, Milan 1036.5, Spring Lake 921, St. Clair 875.5, St. Joseph 873.5, Eaton Rapids 853.5, Hastings 841, Stevensville Lakeshore 704, Paw Paw 672.5 and Otsego 13.5. The 3200-meter relay was the only event the Hamilton girls won. The team of Cathy Coryell, Molly Oren, Emily Oren and Brandi Tidd took that race in 9:34.65. But Hamilton was very good in nearly every event. The 200-meter dash was the only event the Hawkeyes didn’t have a girl finish in the top eight in. Fifth was the lowest the Hawkeyes placed in any of the relays. Dearborn Divine Child won five events, while DeWitt and Grand Rapids Christian won three each. Dearborn Divine Child took two relays, with Rosanna Reynolds, Kayla Gandy, Liz Mullen and Paige Patterson winning the 800meter relay in 1:43.21 and the team of Mallory Myler, Mullen, Nicole Urbanick and Patterson taking the 1600-meter relay in 3:56.92. Patterson also took the 200 in 25,31 and the 400 in 56.89. Her teammate Ashley O’Neill won the discus with a throw of 119-8. DeWitt’s girls won the other relay, with the team of Josie Yesmunt, De’Anna Majors, Jessica D’Haene and Audrey Koenigsknecht finishing the 400-meter event in 50.71. The Panthers’ also had Tori Desira win the 100meter hurdles in 14.69 seconds and the 300meter low hurdles in 45.41. Grand Rapids Christian took two field events, with Janina Pollatz clearing 11--6 in the pole vault and flying 17-1.25 in the long jump. The Eagles also had Julia Bos win the 3200-meter run in 10:52.36. Zeeland West’s Rachele Schulist won the 800-meter run in 2:17.78 and the 1600-meter run in 4:58.25. Other girls scoring points for the Hastings team Saturday included Mara Speer, Amber Myers, Brie Sheldon, Katy Garber, Cherie Kosbar, Erin Goggins, Corrie Osterink, Christine Maurer, Selinda Arechiga, Abby Laubaugh, Christy Clark, Shelby Vandermel, Hannah Anderson, Caprice Lowinski and Jillian Bailey. The Division 1 and 2 MITCA team state finals were held in Jenison. Rockford won the Division 1 girls’ championship and East Kentwood took the boys’ title. In Division 2, the boys’ championship went to Grand Rapids Christian. The Saxons’ Christy Clark takes off after getting the baton from teammate Amber Myers in the 800-meter relay race Saturday in Jenison. (Photo by Brett Bremer) DK baseball to see Saranac Saturday Delton Kellogg’s varsity baseball team will open play in the Division 3 District Tournament hosted by Maple Valley in Vermontville Saturday with a semifinal contest against Saranac at 10 a.m. The Panthers will have their work cut out for them. Saranac scored 20 runs in its PreDistrict win over Fennville Tuesday, a 20-6 victory by the Redskins. Maple Valley and Hopkins meet in the second semifinal Saturday, with the district championship game to follow. Delton closed out the regular season with a 3-21 record, falling in its two contests with Carson City-Crystal Wednesday in Delton. The Eagles won game one 8-1, and then took game two 11-4. Panther head coach Bill Humphrey said the Eagles put on a bunting clinic. The Eagles had “timely rallies fueled by multiple suicide squeeze bunts that were placed perfectly,” Humphrey said. “It put us on our heels and we never really recovered from it.” Sam Horrocks, who Humphrey said “pitched very well” took the loss. Ryan Hook took the loss in game two. “The Eagles even managed to squeeze in a run that game as well,” Humphrey added. Delton Kellogg’s Libby Parker drives the ball against Carson City-Crystal Wednesday evening at Delton Kellogg High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Delton softball splits its last doubleheader of regular season Delton Kellogg’s Ryan Hook races towards the plate as the Carson CityCrystal catcher waits on a throw during game two Wednesday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) The Panthers’ Jared Buckland pitches during game two against Carson City-Crystal Wednesday evening. (Photo by Perry Hardin) DK girls to face Pennfield a third time The Panthers’ last tournament didn’t go the way they wanted it to. Now they’re trying to make up for it. Delton Kellogg’s varsity girls’ soccer team opened play in the Division 3 District Tournament being hosted by Battle Creek Pennfield this week with a 5-0 victory at Olivet High School Tuesday. That win earns the Delton Kellogg girls the chance to face another Kalamazoo Valley Association rival again, Pennfield. Delton and Pennfield will meet in the district semifi- nals today, at 5 p.m., with the winner advancing to Saturday morning’s district championship game. Pennfield topped Delton Kellogg 5-1 in the match for third place to close out the KVA Tournament May 18. Delton Kellogg won the KVA regular season match-up between the two teams by the same 5-1 score. Delton also scored five goals in the win over Olivet Tuesday. Hannah Phommavongsa scored twice in the final 11 minutes of the first half to push the Panthers’ lead to 3-0. Sara Rendon opened the scoring for Delton, in the 19th minute, off an assist by Aryka Poling. Kanoe Chaffee assisted on Phommavongs’s first goal. Brianna Russell and Alea Hammond scored Delton Kellogg’s second-half goals, with assists going to Poling and Rendon. Delton Kellogg goalie Carlye Hammond saved the one shot that came her way. Delton improved to 16-3 with the win. Delton Kellogg’s varsity softball team closed out the regular season Wednesday by splitting its non-conference doubleheader with visiting Carson City-Crystal. Carson City-Crystal took the opener 10-4, thanks to a seven-run outburst in the top of the fourth inning. Brooke Martin was hit with the loss for Delton, despite six strike outs. Martin was one of three Panthers with two hits. Kaysie Hook had a pair of doubles. Libby Parker had a double and a single. Both Martin’s hits were singles. The Panthers took game two 4-3, with Martin earning the win. She struck out four, and on offense had a team-high three hits. Kami McCowan chipped in a double and a single for Delton, while Hook and Parker each had another double. Delton Kellogg opens postseason play in the Division 3 District Semifinals at Maple Valley High School Saturday. The Panthers will take on Saranac in the first of two semifinals, beginning at 10 a.m. Maple Valley takes on Hopkins in the day’s second semifinal. Laya Newland pitches for Delton Kellogg during game two against Carson City-Crystal Wednesday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 31, 2012 — Page 19 TK will play Saturday after beating South Christian by Brett Bremer Sports Editor A couple of seniors delivered the bit hits, and a freshman did the work on the mound Tuesday. Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity baseball team advances to Saturday’s Division 2 District Semifinals at the South Christian Sports Park after a 6-4 victory over the host Sailors in the Pre-District contest Tuesday. Senior Dylan VanPutten blasted a two-run home run in the top of the first inning for the Trojans, and the Trojans led for the rest of the evening. Fellow senior Jordan Timm added a two-run double in the Trojans’ three-run third inning. Freshman Dalton Phillips, in what TK head coach Jack Hobert called “the game of his life to this point,” struck out nine while allowing five hits, two walks and four earned runs in his complete game effort. “He put the pressure on his shoulders and backed it up,” Hobert said. TK led 5-0 after its at-bat in the third inning. South Christian got on the scoreboard for the first time in the bottom of the third, as a couple of hit batters, a wild pitch, a bloop single and a sacrifice ground out pushed in two runs. Each team added a run in the fourth inning, and the Sailors shaved one more run off the Trojan lead in the bottom of the seventh inning. TK had six hits in the game, including a triple by Garrett Harris. Harris also drove in the Trojans’ run in the top of the fourth, bouncing a ground ball over the Sailor third baseman. South Christian’s Sam Memmelaar was hit with the loss. The Trojans will return to the South The Trojans’ Cody Ybema looks on as he gets his lead off of first base during the top of the fourth inning of Tuesday’s Division 2 Pre-District contest at South Christian. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Christian Sports Park Saturday. They’ll take on Wayland in the first of two district semifinal contests, beginning at 10 a.m. That game Thornapple Kellogg’s Dalton Phillips tries to pitch his way out of a jam during the bottom of the third inning against South Christian Tuesday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) will be followed by a contest between Kelloggsville and Byron Center. The district championship game is slated for 2 p.m. Lakewood girls end CAAC-White season in third Williamston won the boys’ and girls’ championships at the Capital Area Activities Conference White Division Championships they hosted Wednesday. The win by the Williamston boys meant they shared the league championship this season with Lansing Catholic, which handed the Hornets their first loss in a league dual earlier in the season. The Lakewood girls were third with 99.5 points, behind league champion Williamston (179) and Lansing Catholic (108). Corunna was fourth with 96 points, followed by Perry 29 and Portland 7.5. Lakewood had four league championship performances, including three by Mycah Ridder. She won the 100-meter dash in 12.87 seconds, the 200 in 26.74 and teamed with Ellie Reynolds, Madison McLean and Alexis Kosten to win the 800-meter relay in 1 minute 47.91 seconds. The Vikings’ Ashley Jemison added a win in the discus with a throw of 119 feet 10 inches. She was also second in the shot put at 342.5. Williamston’s Tori Freeman won the shot at 38-6.5, and was second to Jemison in the discus with a throw of 109-1. Lakewood’s Hannah DeJong and Jemison tied for fifth in the high jump at 4-8, and DeJong tied for sixth as well in the pole vault by clearing 8-0. The Viking girls were second to Williamston in the two other sprint relays. DeJong, McLean, Kosten and Betsy Reynolds were second in the 400-meter relay in 52.75, and the team of Kosten, McLean, Betsy Reynolds and Ridder was second in the 1600-meter relay in 4:08.67. Ellie Reynolds and Cassidy Curtis scored in both hurdle events for the Vikings. Reynolds was third in the 100-meter hurdles in 17.06 and second in the 300-meter low hurdles in 50.27. Curtis was fifth in the 100 in 17.76 and third in the 300 in 50.61. Other individual scoring performances for the Lakewood girls included McLean’s fourth place finish in the 400 and Betsy Reynolds’ fifth-place finish in the 800. Hannah Sailar, Elizabeth Dutcher and Emma Frost joined Ridder was winners of two individual events. Lansing Catholic’s Frost took the 1600-meter run in 5:23.78 and the 3200 in 12:01.08. Sailar took the high jump at 5-2, and won the pole vault at 11-6. Dutcher won the 100-meter hurdles in 15.51 and the long jump at 17-7.25. The Hornet boys finished with 206 points Wednesday. Lansing Catholic was second with 161, followed by Corunna 52, Perry 48, Lakewood 36 and Portland 15. The Vikings’ best finish was in the 800meter relay, where the team of Micah Weatherwax, Cody Collins, Joey Endres and Jake Waldron was second in 1:36.97. Weatherwax was fifth in the 100 in 11.65 and third in the 200 in 23.36. Perry’s Dillon Brooks won both sprints, taking the 100 in 11.21 and the 200 in 22.44. Nate Kauffman scored in three individual events for Lakewood, placing eighth in the 110-meter high hurdles in 18.44, seventh in the 300-meter intermediate hurdles in 45.67 and in a tie for eighth in the high jump at 5-6. Teammate Michael Carr also scored in the high jump, placing fourth at 5-10. Other field event scorers for the Lakewood boys’ team included Collins with a fourthplace finish in the pole vault (11-0), Nick Payne who was fifth in the discus at 112-5, and Lars Pyrzinski who was seventh in the shot put with a mark of 41-11. Hastings’ Mitch Kolanowski signs his National Letter of Intent to join the Alma College Football program in the Hastings High School library Friday afternoon. He was joined by his parents, Mark and Sue Kolanowski (seated), as well as Hastings football coach Jeff Denny and Ed Fillmore from Alma College. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Kolanowski will play football for Alma by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Mitch Kolanowski didn’t start playing football competitively until middle school. TK softball rally two runs short at South by Brett Bremer Sports Editor A walk and an infield single, coupled with a couple wild pitches, brought the tying run to the plate for the Trojans in the bottom of the seventh inning, but that was where the rally ended. Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity softball team fell 4-2 to South Christian in the Division 2 Pre-District contest at the South Christian Sports Park Tuesday. The Sailors put together a three-run fifth inning, then tacked on an insurance run in the top of the sixth, to advance to Saturday’s district semifinal where they’ll host Wayland at 10 a.m. Kelloggsville and Byron Center meet Thornapple Kellogg’s Morgan VanPutten drives the ball to the left side during the bottom of the seventh inning against South Christian Tuesday. The Trojans fell 4-2 to the host Sailors in their Division 2 Pre-District game. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Liz Polmanteer pitches for the Trojans during the top of the fourth inning against South Christian Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) in the second semifinal of the day at the South Christian Sports Park. Senior Liz Polmanteer struck out four in her final start for the Trojans, but took the loss. Chloe Graham and Erin DeVries had two hits each, all singles. Graham scored the Trojans’ first run, starting a two-out rally with two out in the bottom of the fifth. TK’s first two batters went down in the bottom of the seventh too, but Kelly Mousseau earned a walk and Graham ran herself into an infield single to put runners on first and second. They both advanced two bases on two wild pitches, plating the Trojans’ second run, before Sailor pitcher Anna Timmer ended the game with her seventh strike out. Amanda Nichols reached base in three of her four plate appearances, and scored two runs to lead the Sailor attack. Paige Lajcak and Liz Polmanteer also had hits for TK. Then he didn’t play at all when high school began. Now he’ll be playing in college. Recent Hastings High School graduate Mitch Kolanowski signed his National Letter of Intent to join the Alma College Football program in the Hastings High School library Friday afternoon. Kolanowski said he thought his parents thought he would eventually get bored with football if he started playing with many of the area’s other youngsters in the local HYAA program, so he didn’t start playing until middle school. His freshman year in high school he played tennis. “Playing football in college kind of just happened this year because I had a big year,” Kolanowski said. “I only played football three years. I played tennis my freshman year. I switched to football. I knew I wanted to go somewhere in that instead of tennis. “I just took one year off from it and I just missed it so much. Football is really my main sport that’s what I’ve always loved since I was little.” Kolanowski spent two years as a defensive back for the Hastings varsity football team. He was named honorable mention all-state in his senior season, in which he had eight interceptions. The Alma coaches never even saw him play. Kolanowski wasn’t sure about Alma at first. “My parents definitely influenced it quite a bit, just because they both went there,” Kolanowski said. “They wanted me to visit there. I wasn’t really sure at first if I was going to go there, but then once I visited I just knew that I loved it. I could just tell. And of course I want to play football next year, so that’s another big thing.” Kolanowski plans to study towards a degree in education with the hope of becoming a high school or middle school physical education teacher. Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads �Page 20 — Thursday, May 31, 2012 — The Hastings Banner DK boys and Hastings girls win Barry County titles by Brett Bremer Sports Editor It took some time to add them all up. There were victory laps after an assortment of dual meet wins, a couple of invitationals, the KVA Championships ... Delton Kellogg’s varsity boys’ track and field team took its tenth and final victory lap of the season Tuesday, after winning the Barry County Meet at Maple Valley High School by 14 points over runner-up Thornapple Kellogg. This was only the ninth win for the Panthers. They took a premature victory lap at the Olivet Relays early in the season, before learning that their 1600-meter relay team had been disqualified from its race. “After Olivet, we started waiting until we knew the final score,” said Delton Kellogg senior Billy Schut. “Nine,” said fellow Delton senior Tyler Dempsey. Hastings’ Ronnie Collins, (from left) Delton Kellogg's Billy Schut and Hastings' Jacob Westers round a corner during the 3200-meter run Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Hastings’ varsity girls’ track and field team lets everyone know who is number one after winning Tuesday’s Barry County Meet at Maple Valley High School by 26 points over runner-up Thornapple Kellogg. (Photo by Brett Bremer) “That’s a good number.” There was no disqualification in the 1600meter relay Tuesday. The Delton foursome of Dempsey, Phoenix Pease, Brandon Robbins and Conner Wolschleger won the race in 3 minutes 36.51 seconds. Hastings took the girls’ title, by 26 points over runner-up Thornapple Kellogg. That 1600-meter relay victory was the last of six wins for the Delton boys. They won three of the four relays, with the team of Nick Brindley, Pease, Wolschleger and Adam May taking the 800-meter relay in 1:34.21 and the team of Brindley, Mike Bassett, Robbins and May winning the 400-meter relay in 45.85. It was no surprise the Panthers won the 1600-meter relay, not after having the top two runners in the 400-meter dash. Pease won that race in 53.97 seconds, with Dempsey second in 54.41. Delton also had Robbins win the 300-meter intermediate hurdles in 42.41 and Wolschleger take the long jump at 19-1. Those two Delton Kellogg winners might have benefited from a couple of the county’s stars not taking part in the action. Maple Valley’s Garrett Reid, who is one of the top seeds for Saturday’s Division 3 State Finals in the long jump, was saving his legs for the Lansing Area Honor Roll Meet which was scheduled for Wednesday. One of the area’s top hurdlers, Jacob Comer, from Hastings didn’t run Tuesday. Hastings’ Amanda Sarhatt races towards a third-place finish in the 3200meter run at the Barry County Meet Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Delton Kellogg’s Conner Wolschleger (right) takes off after getting the baton to start the anchor leg of the 1600-meter relay Tuesday at Maple Valley High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Delton finished with 406 points, followed by Thornapple Kellogg 392, Maple Valley 360, Lakewood 316 and Hastings 279. Each team was allowed three entrants in each individual event, and one team in each relay race. Everyone who finished scored points for their team. Reid did get plenty of points for his team despite not competing in his best event. He won the 100-meter dash in 11.50 seconds and was second in the 200-meter dash in 24.08, behind Lakewood’s Micah Weatherwax who hit the finish line in 23.62. Weatherwax was second to Reid in the 100 in 11.59. Thornapple Kellogg had two guys win two individual events. Dustin Brummel took the 1600-meter run in 4:42.47 and the 3200-meter run in 10:46.88. Tanin Eckhoff won the high jump by clearing 5-10 and the 110-meter high hurdles in 15.63. TK also had Michael “Trey” Mahon win the discus with a throw of 154-8. The Trojans had three of the top four scorers in the event with Adrian Foster second and Josh Christensen four. Maple Valley’s Keegan Yost broke up that pack with a third-place finish, and he won the shot put with a throw of 485.5. Mahon was second in that event with a mark of 45-5. The Lion team also had Kyle Spencer win the 800-meter run in 2:06.15. Hastings had two wins. Joey Siska cleared 13-0 in the pole vault, and the Saxon 3200meter relay team won in 8:43.13. It wasn’t just the champions who helped their teams though. For Delton Kellogg it was Lucas Hansen with a runner-up finish in the long jump (18-4.5), Schut placing fourth in the 3200 (11:37.72), Jarryd Calhoun placing fifth in the 1600 (5:10.81), and so on. Lion ladies advance in D4 district tourney Maple Valley’s varsity girls’ soccer team exploded for six goals in its Division 4 District Opener Tuesday. The Lions knocked off visiting Potterville 6-1 to advance to today’s district semifinal against Calhoun Christian. Springport and Albion will meet in the other district semifinal contest being hosted by Maple Valley today. Springport topped Quincy 2-0 in the other opening round game in the district Tuesday. The district championship game is scheduled for Saturday at 10 a.m. Delton Kellogg’s varsity boys’ track and field team (and a guest) celebrate on the infield after winning Tuesday’s Barry County Meet at Maple Valley High School by 14 points over runner-up Thornapple Kellogg. (Photo by Brett Bremer) For the Hastings girls there were results such as Leah Czinder with a runner-up finish in the pole vault (8-6), Amanda Sarahatt third in the 3200 (13:03.98), Grace Bosma second int he 800 (2:33.06), Rachel Rimer fourth in the 300-meter low hurdles (51.18) and Cherie Kosbar fourth in the 400-meter dash (1:05.17), Katy Garber third in the high jump (4-10) and Christine Maurer sixth in the 1600 (6:16.00). “‘Four deep’ has been our motto all year,” said Hastings girls’ coach Brian Teed. “So, in this kind of meet we’re pretty tough. It makes sense. All year our third, fourth and fifth girls have known they were important. It wasn’t just the top girls.” Hastings’ girls finished with 451 points, followed by Thornapple Kellogg 425, Lakewood 400, Delton Kellogg 258 and Maple Valley 218. Rachel Quillen was one of the top girls for Hastings. She won a pair of field events, taking the long jump with a mark of 15-1 and clearing 5-0 in the high jump. She was also second in the 100-meter hurdles in 17.04, behind Lakewood’s Ellie Reynolds won in 16.44. Quillen’s teammate Nikki Redman was third in the 100-meter hurdles (17.13) and won the 300-meter low hurdles in 48.45. Delton Kellogg’s Andrea Polley was second in that race and fourth in the 100-meter hurdles. Reynolds was third in the 300-meter event. Trista Straube matched Quillen’s two indi- vidual wins for Hastings, taking the 3200meter run in 12:10.70 and the 1600-meter run in 5:33.47. TK’s Casey Lawson was second to her in each of those events. While Straube and Lawson went 1-2 in the distance events, it was TK’s Fiona Shea edging Lakewood’s Micah Ridder in the two sprints. She won the 100-meter dash in 13.01 and the 200 in 26.99. Ridder finished the 100 in 13.25 and the 200 in 27.75. Ridder also teamed with Madison McLean, Betsy Reynolds and Jacqueline O’Gorman to win the 1600-meter relay in 4:20.11 for the Vikings. McLean, Kosten, Ridder and Ellie Reynolds won the 800-meter relay in 1:48.54. Hastings started the day on the track by winning the 3200-meter relay in 10:10.41. TK won the 400-meter relay in 52.77. In the other three field events, Lakewood got a win from Ashley Jemison in the discus thanks to her throw of 118-3. TK’s Erin Ellinger took the shot put at 37-7.25 and Maple Valley’s Jadelyn Stewart won the pole vault by clearing 9-0. Ellinger led a sweep of the top three spots in the shot put for TK, with Deejay Minor second at 33-3 and Aimee Ellinger third at 32.9.5. Jemison was fourth at 32-6. Jemison also added a runner-up leap of 4-10 in the high jump. The other winners on the track included Lakewood’s McLean, who took the 400meter dash in 1:02.83 and Thornapple Kellogg’s Grace Possett who won the 800meter run in 2:27.50. Saxon baseball falls 10-0 in final regular season contest The event went well. The ball game did not. Hastings varsity baseball team fell 10-0 in five innings at Forest Hills Eastern Monday, in the Hawks’ annual Memorial Day contest. The Hawks wore camouflage jerseys, while the Saxons had American flag themed jerseys, thanks to a sponsorship from K Industries in Hastings. “It was good to be a part of their event,” said Saxon head coach Marsh Evans. “They honored veterans in the area, as well as kinds from the high school in the military and those going into the military. It was a nice event to be a part of.” Nicholas Replogle had the only hit for the Saxons in the loss. He also took the loss, as the starting pitcher, eventually being replaced on the mound by teammate Jake Swartz. FHE led 3-0 after three innings, then tacked on two runs in the fourth and four more runs in the bottom of the fifth to end the game early. The Saxons are spending this week trying to prepare for their Division 2 District Tournament, which will be held in Otsego Saturday. Hastings takes on Plainwell in the first of two semifinal contests, beginning at 10 a.m. Otsego takes on Plainwell in the other semifinal, at about noon, with the championship game to follow. “This week is just kind of about trying to get the kids refocused,” Evans said. “We’re out of school right now. It’s very difficult. Everybody’s seniors are out of school at this point, but we’re all out of school.” Evans said he feels like Gull Lake is the favorite to win the district championship, but his team will have to focus in a very winnable game against Plainwell to start the day. Getting to that second game is the most important thing at this point. Nashville golfer bags an albatross Barry Roscoe of Nashville scored a double eagle, also known as an albatross, at Mulberry Fore Golf Course Thursday, May 24. Roscoe used a Cobra AMP Driver to score the albatross on the No. 2 Hole, recording a hole-in-one on the 305-yard Par 4. Though no statistics are compiled and no reliable sources have been cited for exact odds, the double eagle is considered to be a tougher golf course fete than a hole-in-one. Dean Knuth, the author of the US Golf Association’s “slope rating” which measures the difficulty of golf courses, places the odds of scoring a hole-in-one at 13,000-to-1 and of a double eagle at 1 million-to-1. Each year, about 40,000 holes-in-one are recorded in the U.S. and about 200 double eagles. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 31, 2012 — Page 21 Hastings High School Class of 2012 matriculates Laken Meade speaks during the tassel ceremony as fellow graduates Alexis Hickey and Tessa Johnson look on. The Class of 2012 applauds after a brief welcome from Hastings High School Principal Tim Johnston. Brian Graybill, Evan Ramsey, and Megan Morse sing “Lost in My Mind.” Class of 2012 Top Scholar Joey Longstreet addresses his fellow graduates during the commencement ceremony. by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer The temperatures mercifully cooler than in preceding and following days, family and friends filled the Hastings High School gym Friday to watch the commencement exercises of the Hastings High School Class of 2012. Instrumental music was provided by the Hastings High School Band under the direction of Joan Bosserd-Schroeder, “Say Goodbye” was sung by senior choir members under the direction of choir instructor Patti LaJoye. Seniors Brian Graybill, Megan Morse and Evan Ramsey performed “Lost in My Mind.” Speakers and presenters during the evening included Megan Denny who gave the welcome; Jennifer Feldpausch and Erika Thornton introduced the keynote speaker Hastings High School teacher Karl Schwartz whose address was entitled “Beginner’s Mind;” valedictorian Joseph Longstreet gave a speech entitled “Potential;” Katherine Coenen and Erika Rozell shared memories of the class in “Remember When;” Laken Meade led the tassel ceremony, and Alexis Hickey and Tessa Johnson gave the closing comments. After Hastings High School Principal Tim Johnston certified the senior class, Interim Superintendent of Hastings Area Schools Michelle Falcon presented diplomas to the graduates with the help of Megan Denny and Jennifer Feldpausch. Meg Travis receives her diploma. Senior choir members sing “Say Good-bye.” Megan Denny welcomes the graduates and their families and friends to the Hastings High School 2012 graduation ceremony. Jennifer Feldpausch (left) and Erika Thornton introduce the keynote speaker. Katherine Coenen (left) and Erika Rozell give the traditional “remember when” speech. Hastings Board of Education Trustee Dan Patton hands out diplomas. �Page 22 — Thursday, May 31, 2012 — The Hastings Banner a s t i n g s i g h c h o o l H lass H S C O F 2 01 2 C 2 01 2 Nathan Aldrich Maxx Tyler Birman Jarrica Marie Christiansen Kaylea Elizabeth Copenhaver Kaitlyn Nicole DeVries Matilde Berg Fagerland Gregory Robert Goodrich Alysha Nicole Hoffman Hannah Koryn Alspaugh Molly Elaine Birman Tiffany Alyse Clark Hayden Todd Cousineau Adam James Donavan Jennifer Rose Feldpausch Kayla Danielle Gorodenski Samantha Lynn Hoolsema Hannah Frieda Anderson Lance Kenneth Blankenship Andrew Timothy Clous Kara Jane Cuncannan Michael Aidan Doran Nicole Elizabeth Fish Jacob Wesley Gray Morganne Alyssa Hubbell Alexis Lynn Arens Jakob Michael Bower Alexis Nicole Clow Amanda Marie Curtiss John Timothy Douglas Dupree Carl Phillip Franson Brian Daniel Graybill Rachel Ann Hunt Nicholas Alen Ashcraft Brehan Marie Breitner Katherine Lee Coenen Victoria Grace Cybulski Ivy Christian Edinger Brooke Ashley Furlong Marie Margarete Gutgsell Fredrik Jan Eric Isgard Stacey Michelle Baker Daniel Martin Buehler Jacob Scott Comer Brice Matthew DeJong Dallas Gaberielle Elzinga Craig Alan Gagnon Maicee Anne Herrington Jennifer Lea Jarman Devin James Bancroft Connor James Campbell Anna Nicole Cooley Kaylee Michelle DeMink Steven Earl Endsley Keith Matthew Garber Alexis Nicole Hickey Dylan Elise Johns Jordan Ashdon Bell David Voight Case Charity Lynn Copenhaver Megan Marie Denny Kaitlyn Elizabeth Etts Casey A. Goggins Megan Sue Hildebrant Brandon Daniel Johnson EYE & E.N.T. SPECIALISTS CENTER 1761 W. M-43 Hwy, Hastings (269) 945-3888 M-66 TIRE 7775 Saddlebag Lake Rd. (M-66) Lake Odessa DEWEY’S AUTO BODY 1111 W. Green, Hastings www.deweysautobody.com MacLEOD CHIROPRACTIC 327 W. Apple St. Hastings BOSLEY PHARMACY “A Full Service Independent Pharmacy serving Hastings & Barry County” 118 S. Jefferson, Hastings 945-3495 PRECISION AUTO BODY REPAIR 819 E. Railroad St. Hastings COLEMAN AGENCY 312 E. Court, Hastings 945-3412 “Since 1908” HASTINGS 616-374-1200 948-3170 948-9472 Lake Odessa • Freeport • Dimondale Mulliken • Pewamo • Westphalia GOLE DENTAL GROUP KING’S ELECTRONICS & APPLIANCES STATE FARM INSURANCE PROGRESSIVE GRAPHICS Dr. Daniel Gole ~ Dr. Jason D. Gole Dr. Philip D. Gole 121 W. Woodlawn, Hastings 948-2244 130 W. State, Hastings 945-4284 Paul Peterson 1215 N. Broadway, Hastings 948-8001 115 S.Jefferson St, Hastings 945-9249 PERFORMANCE PLUS QUICK LUBE 430 W. State St, Hastings 948-8558 BRIAN’S TIRE & SERVICE 235 S. Jefferson, Hastings 945-9549 GEE & LONGSTREET LLP Attorneys at Law 607 N. Broadway, Hastings 945-3495 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 31, 2012 — Page 23 a s t i n g s i g h c h o o l H lass H S C O F 2 01 2 C 2 01 2 Tessa Irene Johnson Lauren Alexis Kirwin Robert Allen Leedy Laken MeLinda Meade Megan Marie Morse Amber Jean Nurenberg Michael Jon Pewoski Kevin Adam Rice Lena Denise Jordan Micala Therese Klipfer Mackenzie Andrews Lewis Julia Pela Meneghel Ashley Lynn Musculus Ashley Ann Nurenberg Janelle Nicole Pifer Alisha Marie Rose Michael Joseph Kaczmarczyk Taylor Louis Klotz Joseph Robert Longstreet Danielle Rae Meredith Amber Lee Myers Halie Dawn Owen Garrett Matthew Powers Erika Kristine Rozell Adam Russell Keeler Mitchell Joseph Kolanowski Francisco Armando López Megan René Miller Jenna Isbell Nedbalek Mitchell Jordan Owen Zachary Devere Price Nicole Marie Rybiski Alexis Victoria Kelly Joe Alan Krebs Emily Patrice Macqueen Rebecca Jo Miller Tel Gene Newth John Eric Parker Tristan Bustamante Rabe Farrah Sue Salazar Kathryn Willits Kesler Erica Lynn Krouse Cassidee Fyan Martin Joshua Robert Moore Alexzander Craig Nichols Brandon Scott Parsons Evan Patrick Ramsey STyler Elizabeth Schullo Rachael Arianna Kingsbury Shelby Jo Kubek Dallas Kyanne McKay Kimberly Nicole Morris Jeremy Ryan Nichols Victoria Lynne Pemberton Rebecca Lee-Ann Rea Joshua Michael Scobey Alice Dorothy Kinney Bret Alan Lawrence Dylan Fredrick McKee Courtney Marie Morse April Rose Nicholson Dallas Paul Pesch Stormey Ann Rhodes Rebecca Katharine Senard WHITE’S PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO 131 W. State St, Hastings 945-3967 MILLER REAL ESTATE 149 W. State St, Hastings 945-5182 BROWN’S CARPET ONE & CUSTOM INTERIORS TRADEMARK REALTY, INC. 305 S. Broadway, Hastings 945-0514 www.TradeMarkRealty.com 945-2963 100.1 FM Hastings 401 N. Broadway, Hastings 945-5352 122 N. Jefferson Rd. Hastings 948-9696 616-891-8104 122 W. State St, Hastings WELTON’S HEATING & COOLING HASTINGS NAPA 632 E. Main St. Caledonia HODGES JEWELRY 221 N. Industrial Park, Hastings 945-2479 SEIF CHEVROLET BUICK PONTIAC AT HOME REAL ESTATE 50 N. M-37 Hwy, Hastings 945-3550 “Work with the people who make you Feel At Home” RADIOSHACK OF HASTINGS HASTINGS CITY BANK 614 W. State St, Hastings “Safe & Sound Since 1886” 150 W. Court St, Hastings 269-945-4800 945-2401 GIRRBACH FUNERAL HOME RENEWED HEALTH CHIROPRACTIC & MASSAGE THERAPY 328 S. Broadway, Hastings 945-3252 400 W. State St, Hastings 269-945-2203 �Page 24 — Thursday, May 31, 2012 — The Hastings Banner a s t i n g s i g h c h o o l H lass H S C O F 2 01 2 C 2 01 2 Olivia Ann Shade Chad Sinclair Singleterry Nikki Jo Spurgeon Leah Jo Sweet Dylan Tyler Thurman Joshua Taylor Wheeler Chase James Williams Jonathan Robert Wright Jessica Renee Shaffer Sarah Genevieve Sleevi Jacob David Stanton Steven Lee Symonds Shane Albert Tossava Dalten Michael White Jordin Leeann Willson Francesca Zecchi Cory James Shaver Andrew Timothy Slocum Jacob Dana Steidle Jeremiah Daniel Tessin Meg Ellen Travis Evyn James Willett Caitlyn Arlene Woodmansee Zachary Porter Zwiernikowski Danielle Elizabeth Sherman Ashley Sue Smith Tyler Denton Stolicker Samantha Rae Thompson Anthony John Veltre III Gabrielle Dianne Shipley Hannah Marie Smith Savannah Rose Storey Timothie Jaymes Thompson LéTitia Lynn Vickery Ashley Margaret Shuster Kimberly Marie Smith Sarah Ann Storm Sarah Rebecca Ann Thornburgh Haley Elaine Wagner Breonna Marie Sinclair Clayton Jay Sprague Kali Rená Straube Erika Lyn Thornton Brittany Marie May Welch Amanda Conley PORTRAITS NOT AVAILABLE— MORGAN ALLERDING ALEXANDRA AZARCON JUSTIN BACK SUZANNE BEARDSLEE AMANDA CONLEY KEVIN EICHER PRINTING PLUS ...in the Gray Barn 1351 N. (M-43 Hwy) Hastings 945-9105 FILLMORE EQUIPMENT 2900 N. M-43 Hwy, Hastings 945-9526 “Good Luck Saxons!” BENJIMON HUIZENGA ROBERT LABO JOSE MARTIN LARES NICHOLAS MACHLER MELANIE MACLEOD JAMES OWEN THE HASTINGS BANNER Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 1351 N. M-43 Hwy, Hastings 945-9554 FIRST REHAB 4525 N. M-37 Hwy, Ste B, Middleville 269-795-4230 DYLAN SHAFER CODY SLATER ASHLEY TATUM BRITTANY THURKETTLE KEN VANBELKUM DEZIREE YOUNG J-AD GRAPHICS Quality Printers & Publishers 1351 N. M-43 Hwy, Hastings 945-9554 EDWARD JONES Mark D. Christensen, AAMS Financial Advisor 421 W. Woodlawn, Hastings ICS TRAVEL LITTLE CAESAR’S 128 E. Court St, Hastings 269-945-3553 www.icstravel.com Home of the Hot & Ready Pizza! 216 N. Broadway, Hastings 948-2824 WOMEN’S HEALTH FIRST, PC HASTINGS ORTHOPEDIC CLINIC BARRY COUNTY LUMBER 225 N. Industrial Park Dr. Hastings (269) 945-3431 945-5110 10051 W. Green St. Suite G100, Hastings 1761 W. M-43 Hwy, Suite 2, Hastings 1108 W. State St. Ste 3, Hastings www.hoc-mi.com 840 Cook Rd. Hastings (269) 945-0922 (269) 948-PEDS (7337) (269) 945-8080 (269) 945-9520 Laura M. Doherty, MD & Laura J. Kota, MD � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-06-07.pdf 9b423c11bd33226b51516e24c36a8afa PDF Text Text County Board hears good news Is 180 days of school enough? Trojans win baseball district championship See Story on Page 15 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 19 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 23 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, June 7, 2012 Falcon to leave Hastings for NEWS charter school opportunity BRIEFS Duo to play at showcase tonight The Community Music Showcase will feature local duo Brushridge Thursday, June 7, at 6:45 p.m. at Thomas Jefferson Hall, 328 S. Jefferson St., Hastings. The performance will mark the debut of Brushridge at the showcase. Brushridge is a husband and wife group made up of Bill and Lori Barcroft. He plays guitar and sings lead vocals and she plays fiddle. No admission is charged for the concert, but a free will offering will be received. Jeff Speas will be the featured performer for the final showcase of the season, scheduled for 6:45 p.m. Thursday, June 21. Barry Democrats to meet Saturday The monthly meeting of the Barry County Democrats will take place Saturday, June 9, at 9 a.m. at Thomas Jefferson Hall in downtown Hastings. Topics will include a July fundraiser and participation in the Hastings Summerfest in August. Meetings are open to the public, and there is no charge. Summer lunch program begins next week Hastings Area School will again offer summer food service program. The program provides free lunches to all children under 18 or up to age 26 who are enrolled in an educational program for the mentally or physically disabled, regardless of financial status. The meals will be offered at Southeastern and Central Elementary schools Monday through Friday, June 11 to Aug. 24, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., with the exception of the week of July 2 to 6. Thursday, July 5, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., lunch will be available at Maranda’s Park Party at the Barry Expo Center. All meals must be consumed on site. To volunteer or to learn more about the program, call Sandy Graybill, 269948-4400, or Mary Dennie, 269-9484417. Great Lakes preservation topic of June ILR class Patty Birkholz, former state senator and currently director of the Michigan Office of Great Lakes, will be the featured speaker for a program on Great Lakes preservation Thursday, June 14. Sponsored by the Institute for Learning in Retirement, the program will be from noon to 2 p.m. at the Kellogg Community College Fehsenfeld Center on West Gun Lake Road in Hastings. A box lunch in included. As the Great Lakes office director, Birkholz represents Michigan during meetings with such groups as the Great Lakes Commission and the Council for Great Lakes Governors and addresses issues such as Asian carp threat and offshore wind farms. She will provide updates on current issues affecting the Great Lakes preservation. Fee information may be obtained or registration made by calling the KCC Fehsenfeld Center, 269-948 9500, ext. 2803. by Doug VanderLaan Editor Though her new position will expand her world and educational influence immensely, Hastings Area Schools Interim Superintendent Michelle Falcon says she’ll always treasure the support that the community provided its education system. “I’ve never worked in a district where the community supported its schools so much,” says Falcon. “Hastings will always hold a special place in my heart.” Falcon announced her resignation effective June 30 in a letter to school board president Kevin Beck dated June 4. Falcon has accepted a position as director of educational services with Choice Schools Associates, a Grand Rapids-based charter school company that operates 11 schools, or academies, throughout the state. Falcon will act in a superintendenttype capacity for three of the academies and will be a consistent presence in each of the academies each week. “I’ll still be doing the things I love,” says Falcon. “I’ll have direct contact with staff, students and parents, and I’ll be making curriculum decisions quickly in the interest of encouraging change.” Beck says the board and the community will be indebted to Falcon for the role she played. “We made a lot of progress and made some tough changes,” said Beck of Falcon’s leadership. “We’ll be forever thankful to her for stepping in the gap during a difficult time and doing an admirable job with enthusiasm — we’re going to miss her enthusiasm.” Beck says the move did not catch the board by surprise. “We knew her aspirations were to be a superintendent, and we wish her the best with this opportunity.” CSA, which employs 600 teachers, administrators and support staff, specializes in turning around struggling and failing charter schools. Falcon says the company is given 12 months to accomplish that mission and has succeeded in every venture it has undertaken. Falcon’s own turnaround skills have been Michelle Falcon properly placed. She came to Hastings from the Lakewood Public Schools in August 2010, replacing the retiring Mary Vliek as assistant superintendent. Falcon had served Lakewood as curriculum director and principal of Woodland Elementary. One year later, she was named to the interim superintendent post for Hastings following the board’s approval of a separation agreement with Superintendent Rich Satterlee. Falcon tackled financial, personnel and transportation challenges posed, in large part, by budget constrictions that dropped the district’s fund balance to less than 2 percent. “I truly believe we have been complacent and stagnant for quite awhile, other districts are passing us by,” Falcon said in a presentation to Hastings Kiwanis Club members Oct. 27, 2011, in which she shared accountability for past problems and for future initiatives. “We are going to start moving forward and not lose any more students because of a lack of programming.” She also cited other unpopular decisions See FALCON, page 5 At Wednesday’s Delton Kellogg Senior Honors Assembly, Adrianna Culbert is recognized for being an Academic All-American in volleyball, AVCA All-American Second Team in volleyball, and receiving a full-ride, five-year NCAA volleyball scholarship from Colorado State University. High School Principal Stewart Schofield congratulates Culbert. DK honors seniors with over $1.1 million in scholarships by David DeDecker Staff Writer Delton Kellogg High School honored its graduating seniors during a morning assembly Wednesday, June 6. According to administration, seniors have received more than $1.1 million in scholarships this year, and the number is still climbing. Valedictorian Ryan Watson and salutatorian Brian Wilder were recipients of the Senior Scholarship Awards. Receiving gold honor cords for maintaining grade point averages of 3.85 and above were Michael Bassett, Nicole Blaszak, Elizabeth Crookston, Sarah Eddy, Ryan Hook, Chelsea Martin, Ryan Watson and Brian Wilder. Silver honor cords for seniors with GPAs of 3.59 to 3.849 were presented to Kacy Amaro-Cheek, Meghan Boer, Cassandra Coplin, Adrianna Culbert, Sarah Lepird, William Schut, Hannah Smith, Lindsay Smith and Tyler Vining. Receiving bronze honor cords for GPAs of 3.0 to 3.49 were: Aracely Aguirre Sanchez, Nathan Allen, Nicolas Brindley, Ryan Brown, Carlye Conine, Caitlin Cooper, Tyler Dempsey, Courtenay Dirks, Jolene Drum, See HONORS, page 3 Spray plaza in downtown one step closer to reality Donor puts $250,000 toward project by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Downtown Hastings is on its way to be being wetter if not cooler with the installation of a “spray plaza” on a vacant lot just east of the Hastings Cinema 4 at the corner of North Church and West State streets. Tuesday, May 29, the Hastings City Council unanimously approved the concept designs for the proposed water feature presented Hastings Community Development Director John Hart during the council’s second regular May meeting. “The city council is in full support of the project; [it] aligns itself with objectives in our comprehensive community plan, the [Downtown Development Authority] plan and park and recreation plan” said Hart. “ Preliminary designs for the plaza, created by Virdis Design Group of Grand Rapids, are meant to require minimal maintenance and be used for multiple purposes. All water jets and sprayers are to be in-ground, surface-mounted so they can be turned off manually to allow the plaza to be used for other community purposes, such as a avenue for a small concert or other performance. “The plaza is designed in such a way to encourage multi-generational use and to provide both wet and dry observation areas,” said Hart. “We expect to see folks casually eating lunch, absorbing the sun’s rays, listening to music, playing with their children and grandchildren in the water, connecting with mobile devices, chilling out and having fun downtown.” Hart said the idea for the plaza was brought to him several years ago by council member and downtown business owner Dave Jasperse. “He is familiar with such a development in the city of Lewisburg, West Virginia, and many times over the last couple of years, he asked me when we would be pursuing an installation of our own,” said Hart. “My son lives in West Virginia,” said Jasperse. “I saw the one they put in Lewisburg years ago and I thought it would be a good idea to put one in here. It would bring kids downtown and give them something else to do.” Jasperse also noted that the development would help Hastings new Riverwalk Trail. “The plaza will have an outdoor restroom that will be open nine months of the year. It will serve both the plaza and the trail,” he said. “I think it is going to be a very positive thing for downtown Hastings, and that’s what we’re all about.” The design includes a building that will house three-season public restroom facility on the north side and an small stage/bandshell on the south. The area will include built-in terraced seating and wall seats as well as the spray area. The overall design will incorporate planters, and decorative masonry and concrete surfaces in keeping with the existing downtown streetscape design. “The plaza is being built on a lot that has stood vacant for several years, and the people at Goodrich Quality Theaters have been really great to work with,” said Hastings DDA President Patty Woods. “It will improve the corner and offer people a place to sit and enjoy downtown.” See SPLASH PAD, pg. 15 This aerial view illustrates the spray plaza concept. Conceptual drawings of how the splash plaza will look once completed. This view is from the sidewalk on West State Street looking north. �Page 2 — Thursday, June 7, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Yankee Springs Township to benefit from casino dollars by Fran Faverman Staff Writer Yankee Springs Township Supervisor Al McCrumb and Clerk Janice Lippert, smiling broadly, were in attendance at a press conference called by the Match-E-Be-Nash-SheWish Tribe Monday morning to announce the third revenue-sharing payment from the Gun Lake Casino to state and to local governments. The conference was held at the Baker Elementary School in Wayland. D.K. Sprague, chair of the tribe, presented the third revenue-sharing payment to the State of Michigan and to the local revenuesharing board. The money is derived from electronic gaming revenues. Dignitaries from surrounding communities were also present. Rep. Bob Genetski, R-Saugatuck, accepted a symbolic check in the amount of more than $6.47 million for the state. He said he was honored to accept the check and that it reflected the great relationship between the community and the Gun Lake Casino, which has kept its promises of delivering jobs to the area. According to tribal spokesperson James Nye, the money represents approximately 10 percent of electronic gaming revenues. A second check in the amount of nearly $1.6 million was presented by Sprague to Roger Van Volkinburg, Wayland Township supervisor and chair of the local revenuesharing board. In a later conversation, Van Volkinburg estimated that after expenses incurred by the board, approximately $1.3 million would be available for distribution. According to the formula, 2 percent of the funds are earmarked for the local communities. The funds are divided equally among 10 communities; Let us process your COLOR FILM... Quickly! PRINTING PLUS at J-Ad Graphics North of Hastings on M-43 State News Roundup although no firm numbers are available at this writing, Yankee Springs can probably expect about $6,000. Norman Taylor, superintendent of Wayland Union School District, explained how his district has used the funds to better the opportunities for families and students in the district. He said the funds have enabled the district to reduce the cost of its before- and after-school care programs, provide iPads to students in grades seven to 12, end pay-to-play for athletics and reinstate other programs that were casualties of the budget-cutting processes of past years. The funds have enabled the district to strengthen its science programs through a partnership with the Van Andel Institute, he said, which was looking for partnerships outside Kent County. Celeste Diehm, principal of Baker Elementary School, said that while paper and pencils may come to mind as school supplies, one of the most important programs the school was able to resume was the provision of snacks for students. “Each child is now guaranteed a healthy snack every day,” she said. She added that 56 percent of the student population qualified for free or reduced price meals. Building renovations such as a secure entrance have also been paid for by the revenue-sharing dollars; she credited Taylor, the board of education, and the district’s financial officer with the improvements. The funds matter to Yankee Springs because nearly 1,100 residents live within the Wayland Union School District, many of them on or near Gun Lake. The most recent example of the difference the funds make is the provision of additional ambulance during the summer season. A recently signed contract with Thornapple Township Emergency Services provides for the stationing of an ambulance at the Payne Lake fire barn during 16 summer weekends, including the Fourth of July holiday. The increased availability benefits residents and visitors to Payne and Cobb lakes, as well as the state park and Gun Lake, said McCrumb. Using the funds that way, he said, meets the requirement that the funds benefit the community. State’s special revenue bonds receive triple A’s Moody’s Investors Service, Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services and Fitch Ratings have awarded the Michigan Finance Authority’s Unemployment Obligation Assessment Revenue Bonds ratings of Aaa, AAA, and AAA, respectively, the highest long-term rating available from each service, according to a press release issued June 1 by the Michigan Department of Treasury. In making their announcements, the agencies cited the recent stabilization and growth of Michigan’s economy, as well as the diversity of its employers, as key strengths of the bonds. Proceeds from the $2.9 billion issue will be used to refund the MFA’s 2011 Unemployment Obligation Assessment Variable Rate Demand Revenue Bonds, which repaid the Michigan Unemployment trust fund’s balance due to the federal government. Pricing on the bonds is scheduled to occur the week of June 11. To date, the 2011 bonds have saved Michigan employers more than $38 million in reduced interest expenses. In addition, FUTA tax credits will be fully restored, future tax penalties have been avoided, and the solvency tax on Michigan employers has been eliminated. Michigan an estimated $3.1 billion in 2008. To address this health crisis, the MDCH released the Michigan Health and Wellness 4 by 4 Plan, a statewide plan to reduce obesity and improve wellness. By practicing four key healthy behaviors, and keeping four health measures in check, everyone can improve their overall health. The four healthy behaviors are maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular exercise, getting an annual physical exam, and avoiding all tobacco use. The four health measures are body mass index, blood pressure, cholesterol level, and blood sugar/glucose level. “Just in time for the warm weather, summer sports, and gardening, the ‘Michigan Health and Wellness 4 by 4 Plan’ comes at an ideal time for Michiganders to address their health,” said Olga Dazzo, director of the MDCH. “While the plan is aimed at reducing and preventing obesity, every Michigander can adopt the four-by-four tool which can significantly improve their overall health and wellness.” The Michigan Health and Wellness 4 by 4 Plan and tools for Michiganders to assess their health and create a personal plan can be found online at www.michigan.gov/healthymichigan. Consumers Energy opens development office for Cross Obesity under attack Winds Energy Park Consumers Energy has opened a development office in the Thumb area town of Caro by state officials as it moves forward with its Cross Winds Currently, 32 percent of adults and 17 percent of youths in Michigan are obese. Gov. Rick Snyder has charged the Michigan Department of Community Health with reducing and preventing obesity in Michiganders. Michigan is consistently one of the top 10 heaviest state populations in the nation, and chronic diseases attributed to obesity cost 269-967-8241 77568328 ~ Gifts for Father’s Day ~ Michigan to host National Veterans Small Business Conference The National Veterans Small Business Conference will be at Detroit’s Cobo Center June 26 to 29. A “VA for Vets” hiring fair will is planned June 26 to 28 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., during the conference, for veterans looking for careers in the public and private sectors. The conference is expected to attract thousands of veterans, business owners and federal employees, and bring an estimated $3 million in direct spending to the city. An estimated 12,000 jobs are available for veterans located all around the country, not just in Detroit, said VA Chief of Staff John Gingrich. “VA is committed to bringing more veteran-owned businesses into the public-private partnership,” “In addition to the National Veterans Small Business Conference, our Detroit hiring fair will provide veterans with on-the-spot job opportunities and interviews, while also offering career search classes and one-on-one counseling.” said Gingrich. Last year’s National Veteran Small Business Conference and Expo in New Orleans drew almost 5,000 attendees, and more than 6,000 participants are expected this year. “It is imperative that participants register early,” said Jason Allen, senior deputy director of Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.” “The registration process is quick and easy.” Veterans may register online to attend the hiring fair atwww.vaforvets.va.gov/Detroit. New city parking lot donated by Commercial Bank Enter our FATHER’S DAY * $5.00 Off Fruit Trees RAFFLE * $5.00 Off Baskets * $10.00 Off All Shade Trees with any purchase 5715 South M-66, Nashville • 517-852-1864 Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8:30 - 6:00; Sat. 8:30 - 5:00 EwingLandscaping@yahoo.com Energy Park. Cross Winds will be the utility’s second wind park. The 150-megawatt wind park is scheduled for construction in 2014 and commercial operation for phase one by the end of 2015. Electricity from Cross Winds will support Consumers Energy’s statutory requirement to have 10 percent of the power provided to its customers come from Michigan renewable sources. “The reception from Caro, local and state officials has been very welcoming to this $250 million investment in Tuscola County being planned by Consumers Energy,” said Dennis Dobbs, the utility’s vice president of genera- tion engineering and services. Construction of Cross Winds is expected to include about 150 construction jobs and up to 12 full-time operator positions. Consumers Energy has 22,000 acres under contract for possible wind turbine locations, and has five meteorological towers collecting data on wind patterns. More information on the wind park and the utility’s renewable energy plan is available at: http://www.crosswindsenergypark.com/. 77568575 ® The 77568369 77564841 Everything is ! EE provided FR your is All we need family! Annual FREE for ALL Community Fair June 9, 2012 at Country Chapel Commercial Bank has donated its spare employee parking lot to the City of Hastings. Pictured at the lot on Apple Street are (from left) Hastings Community Development Director John Hart, Community President of Commercial Bank Hastings Timothy P. Kelly, Hastings Mayor Bob May and CEO of Commercial Bank Jeff Barker. Games & Activities begin at 2pm Picnic style dinner to be served at 4pm Free games, great food & amazing entertainment. This is a perfect day out for the whole family. There is something for everyone. Bring a swimsuit and towel for the kids. You can visit with friends while they enjoy our outdoor water slide or one of our many games! DEADLINES COMING SOON! Please join us for this fun filled pinic at God’s house Don’t miss out on these excursions – sign up today! While you are there you may register for VBS. 517-647-2050 or 855-219-0085 Country Chapel - 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling Phone 269-721-8077 07501227 ONE-DAY TOURS: Chicago – Shopping / Sightseeing – June 16 Brookfield Zoo – June 23 Shipshewana – June 26 Detroit’s Eastern Market – July 14 Ann Arbor Street Fair – July 21 TWO BROTHERS AND A TENT For All Your Tent Rental Needs Tables and chairs available. MULTIPLE-DAY TOURS: Call: Dan McKinney 269-838-7057 or Tom McKinney 269-838-3842 Bear Creek Farms ft. The Glen Miller Orchestra – July 19-20 Mississippi River Cruise – July 25-28 White Water Rafting – August 3-5 South Dakota – Black Hills, Badlands, and more! – August 14-22 Mackinac Bridge Walk – September 2-3 Call or email for more information or a complete brochure! 517.647.2050 or 855.219.0085 hartzlertours@gmail.com 77566915 77568567 Complete tour information can be found at: www. hartzlertours.com Don’t delay, tours are filling fast, inquire today! by David DeDecker Staff Writer Commercial Bank has donated a small parking lot on the north side of Apple Street, between the bank building and the Thornapple River to the City of Hastings City. The lot is slated to become a trailhead for the second phase of the city’s Riverwalk project. “The project is an excellent example of a what creative public/private investment and partnership can do for a community,” said Hastings Community Development Director John Hart. The city took possession of the gift from Commercial Bank June 1. Through the it’s recent acquisition and redevelopment of the former MainStreet Savings Bank, Commercial Bank officials recognized the extra employee parking lot could benefit the city with further development of the Riverwalk and Thornapple River trail. “With construction of our new banking facility, we doubled our parking spaces,” said Commercial Bank Community President Tim Kelly. “We are happy to donate the parking lot to the Hastings community and know it will make an excellent addition to the Riverwalk project.” When completed, the river trail will extend from the eastern city limit at Bliss Riverfront Park on East State Street to the western city limit at the end of West Apple Street, adjacent to McDonald’s and Viking. The trail’s distance will measure 2.3 miles, which does not include mileage within the connected trails of Bliss Riverfront or Tyden parks. “The lot is immediately adjacent to the Thornapple River, which makes it a great place to take a break and enjoy the environment,” said Hart. The lot is now Municipal Parking Lot 7 and will serve to enhance parking for the shopping district and trail. Picnic tables are available near the river. “I think it is fantastic Commercial Bank was willing to donate the parking lot to the city. It happened very quickly. It is one more place we can show off our local natural resources and enjoy the Thornapple River,” said Hastings Mayor Bob May. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 7, 2012 — Page 3 HONORS, continued from page 1 Taylor Earl, Matthew Gilreath II, Amanda Harrington, Kayla Hyatt, Jeffrey Jackson, Adam May, Kami McCowan, Casey McCoy, Nickolas Peters, Andrea Polley, Cameron Schutte, Michael Shockley, Kelsey Sofia, Chelsea Vincent and Mitchell Wandell. National Honor Society seniors include Kacy Amaro-Cheek, Michael Bassett, Nicole Blaszak, Meghan Boer, Adrianna Culbert, Sarah Eddy, Ryan Hook, Sarah Lepird, Chelsea Martin, Hannah Smith, Ryan Watson and Brian Wilder. More than 100 citizenship, leadership and service awards were presented at the assembly. Michigan Competitive Scholarships for Outstanding Academic Achievement were awarded to Nathan Allen, Michael Bassett, Meghan Boer, Caitlin Cooper, Elizabeth Crookston, Taylor Earl, Amanda Harrington, Ryan Hook, Sarah Lepird, Casey McCoy, Phoenix Pease, William Schut, Michael Shockley, Lindsay Smith, Tyler Vining and Ryan Watson. Several scholar-athlete awards were given. Michigan High School Athletic Association Senior Scholar Athlete Awards were presented to Adrianna Culbert, Ryan Hook, Hannah Smith, Ryan Watson and Brian Wilder. MHSAA Senior Scholar Athlete Award Finalists were Ryan Hook and Ryan Watson. The MIAAA Academic Achievement Award was presented to Hannah Smith. All-State Team and Academic All-State Team Awards were earned by Ryan Watson for basketball and Adrianna Culbert in basketball and vol- Hannah Smith is recognized by principal Stewart Schofield for receiving the Kellogg Community College Golden Key Scholarship. leyball. Outstanding Senior Athlete and U.S. Army Reserve Scholar/Athlete Awards were presented to Adrianna Culbert and Ryan Watson. Adrianna Culbert was recognized for being an Academic All-American in volleyball, AVCA All-American Second Team in volleyball, and receiving a full-ride, five-year NCAA volleyball scholarship from Colorado State University. The United States Marine Corps presented Jolene Drum and Tyler Dempsey with Distinguished Athlete Awards. High School departmental awards included: English — Chelsea Martin and Ryan Watson; mathematics — Brian Wilder; science — Ryan Watson and Brian Wilder; social studies — Tyler Vining; French — Elizabeth Crookston; Spanish — Meghan Boer; fine arts — Chelsea Vincent; technology — Ryan Hook; and industrial arts — James Reed. A KVA Academic All-Conference award was to presented to Michael Bassett. Ryan Watson received the 2012 Congressional Medal of Merit. Kellogg Community College presented its Gold Key Scholarship to Hannah Smith. Delton Kellogg teachers awarded Ryan Hook with their Dollars for Scholars scholarship and changed the name to the “Ryan Hook Dollars for Scholars” scholarship in honor of his outstanding example of leadership, academics and athletics. Delton Rotary Club awarded $1,000 book scholarships to Michael Bassett and Hannah Smith. Academic institutions awarding scholarship included: Calhoun Area Career Center, Grand Valley State, Western Michigan, Aquinas, Oakland, Davenport, Albion, Alma, Ferris State, Eastern Michigan, Michigan Tech, Indiana Tech and University of Northwestern Ohio. Other awards and scholarships celebrated at the assembly included: Barry Community Foundation, The University of Michigan Alumni Club Dictionary Awards, Gun Lake Women’s Club, John Phillips Sousa, Senior Band, DK Theater Arts, DK Kickline, Willard J. Baker, John F. and Gladys M. Chamberlin, George and Doris Leonard, Gladys Carol Williams for Academic Excellence, Hofmeister Memorial, DK Trades/Vocation/Community College, McCullough Family, Grand Rapids Building Services, Red Cross, Michigan HOSA, the Elks, Senior Three-Sport, Senior Four-Sport, Foreign Language Four-Year, athletic honors and college-bound student athletes. Delton Kellogg with celebrate graduation Sunday, June 10, beginning at 2 p.m. The U.S. Marines awarded Distinguished Athlete Awards to Tyler Dempsey and Jolene Drum. Cameron Schutte (center) receives the George and Doris Leonard Scholarship through the Barry Community Foundation. Delton senior Michael Bassett receives his KVA Academic All-Conference award from Principal Stewart Schofield. Awarded as Senior Scholar Athletes are (from left) Brian Wilder, Ryan Watson, Hannah Smith, Ryan Hook and Adrianna Culbert. Long Term Care & Medicaid Planning Update Chelsea Vincent (right) is awarded the Art Department’s highest award by art teacher Brian Makowski, along with a scholarship to Kendall College of Art and Design. Last week, Vincent also received a National Scholastic Silver Key Award in New York, at Carnegie Hall, presented by actress Meryl Streep. The high school teachers of Delton Kellogg renamed their scholarship to the “Ryan Hook Dollars for Scholars” scholarship, honoring him for his example in academics, athletics and leadershi Thursday, June 14, 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. The Hastings City Bank Trust and Investment Group is partnering with Attorney Robert Longstreet to provide information on recent changes in Michigan State Law. Topics covered include: • What is Estate Recovery and what you can do to protect your home • Planning techniques for estate preservation • What assets and income one may keep and still receive Medicaid • Major eligibility factors • Special rules for spouses • How Medicaid pays for a nursing home This update will take place in the community room of the Hastings Branch, 150 West Court St. Attendance is free to the community. Please reserve a seat by calling 269-948-5579. Refreshments will be served. 77568553 A representative of the Delton Rotary Club awards book scholarships to Michael Bassett and Hannah Smith. Science teacher Connie High presents Outstanding Science Awards to Brian Wilder (left) and Ryan Watson. �Page 4 — Thursday, June 7, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? How many days of school is enough? Underwater crawler Do you After heavy rains Thursday night, road construction crews working on North Broadway in Hastings came to work Friday to find some of their low-lying equipment surrounded by water. (Photo by Dave DeDecker) We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. We’ll select a photograph for publication each week and post the others to our website for all to enjoy. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. know? Trades show Does this scene look familiar? It appears to be a display of items in the east gym at the former Hastings High School, now the middle school. A wooden canoe is being examined by three young boys in the foreground. Behind it is a wooden cabinet of sorts. Garments hang on the walls, and tables are filled with items. Was this some type of trades show to display the talents of local students in shop and home economics classes? Was it a Boy Scout event? Was it a mix of items in a rummage sale? Do you recognize the people or know anything about the event? What can you tell us. The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event to reunite the photos with their original clippings or identify photos that may never have been used. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@jadgraphics.com; or call 269-945-9554. Last week’s photo of two people at a dog kennel drew no response. However, in an otherwise unsuccessful search for an article or photo Elmer Rayner’s state catfish record that stood for nearly 70 years (see related story), yielded the identity of a photo that ran in the April 5 Banner. The photo originally appeared in the April 28, 1949, Banner, along with a story on Marty Schramm, who had established a worm farm in an old house next to his in the 1300 block of South Jefferson Street. The headline said he was ready for trout season. Schramm had been a registered pharmacist when he was stricken by polio. Having given up that job, he, according to the article, “parlayed $13 and nerve into the state’s finest worm building.” Pennock employee makes surprise presentation As a member of the Navy Reserves, Pennock Health Services employee Mark Olmsted had a couple of surprises for his colleagues upon his recent return from active duty deployment at the Landstuhl Medical Center in Germany. During a special Patriot Award Presentation held at the Pennock Conference Center on May 31, Rick Burn (above, left), retired U.S. Navy captain presented the Patriot Award to Stephan Marzolf, Pennock’s chief nursing officer. Olmsted, director of cardio-pulmonary, nominated Marzolf for the award in recognition of Marzolf’s support of a flexible work schedule, allowing Olmsted to serve his country and to then return to serve Pennock Health Services and the Barry County community. In a surprise presentation, Olmsted (below) presented Pennock CEO Sheryl Lewis Blake with a flag flown at the Landstuhl Medical Center in her name and in recognition of Pennock’s support for the Naval Guard and Reserves. The flag will be placed on permanent display at Pennock along with the hospital’s statement of support for the Naval Guard and Reserves. The Center for Michigan’s education report: “School Daze: Michigan’s Shrinking School Year,” is raising concerns about if the number of days that schools are in session has an impact on the commitment the state places on K-12 education. “Ninety-eight percent of Michigan public schools held fewer than 180 days of classes last year,” the report states. “At 180 days, the American system lags behind most of the industrialized world. Korean students attend school 225 days a year, and Japanese students 220, while Americans’ test scores remain lower than those of students in countries with a longer school year.” The 2011 School Daze II study by the Center for Michigan included the number of days scheduled and the actual number of days of school for districts across the state. In Barry County, Thornapple Kellogg met for 171 days, Delton, 166, Maple Valley, 164 and Lakewood, 163.5, and Hastings 160 during the 2008-09 academic year. In recent years, due to declining enrollment and increasing costs, some public schools decided to decrease the number of school days in a year and increase the length of the school day as a way to reduce costs. This became possible when state lawmakers based the minimum school year on 1,089 hours rather than the 180-day requirement in 2003-04. School districts, including Hastings, found that bus transportation alone could save thousands of dollars if they extended the length of the school day and reduced the number of days per year that students must attend classes. State educational leaders became incensed. “Trading a couple more minutes each day in school for fewer days is outrageous,” said State Superintendent Michael Flanagan. Flanagan’s rage no doubt was fueled by the Center for Michigan report that showed only 39 percent of Michigan high school juniors deemed proficient in all subject areas of the Michigan Merit Exam. Only 19 percent of Michigan high school graduates are academically ready for college, ranking Michigan 37th in the nation. So what is the problem? Does the number of days students attend class make the difference on whether they get the education they need to compete in a global marketplace, or does it have to do with what and how they are being taught? The Center for Michigan identified from its statewide community discussions — four of which were held in our communities — three areas that could have the greatest impact on student learning. The issues were: more support and ongoing professional development for teachers, expanding early childhood programs, and reducing class sizes. Missing from that vital list of education’s greatest impacts is the number of days students are in class. It begs the question, then, “Though Michigan’s public education system does need improvement, exactly what changes should be made to make it better?” In recent weeks, the first in a special 10-week “Saxon Perspective” published in the Reminder, students who attended Hastings schools were interviewed in regard to the education they received from Hastings High School. From each interview, the one thing that is common throughout is the impact teachers have had on their lives. Megan Denny, who graduated two weeks ago, credits the atmosphere in which teachers and fellow students pushed her to do her best. “I took every honors or Advanced Placement course I could and got involved in as many other activities as I could,” she said. What do you Another 2012 HHS grad, Keith Garber, says he was no fan of foreign language but, knowing that two years of a foreign language is important at every college, he figured he was in for a rough patch, until he met teacher Vickie Sleevi. “Trading a couple more minutes each day in school for fewer days is outrageous.” State Superintendent Michael Flanagan “She made the glass a blast,” says Garber. “She started every day with a smile, and she was ready to teach. She provided so much give and take. I wouldn’t be a fan of foreign language but for her.” Every day, in his work as the executive director of a 12-employee, 130-acre outdoor nature center with a $1 million budget, 1994 graduate Travis Williams credits his teachers and coaches for the success he has today. “You get to a place in life by the people you surround yourself with,” said Williams. “If I stood alone and didn’t have the parents, the teachers and the coaches I did, I wouldn’t be where I am today.” The story repeats itself over and over again. It’s not just about how many days students attend classes or the number of kids in a class. It’s about the people students come into contact with who make the difference. It’s about their parents, their teachers, their coaches and all the people throughout the community who pushed them to be the best they could be. That’s not something we can expect to legislate because it’s about dedication and concern for outcomes. Other countries may attend school longer than we do in Michigan, but many other parental and cultural differences that we don’t see in American schools play a role in educational success. What we’ve seen in these three student interviews is that, locally, much of our success comes from parent involvement and good teachers willing to create a lively and engaging climate in which kids can learn. If we expect to see better results in the future, it won’t be because of legislative programs like No Child Left Behind or the Race to the Top or the results of some standardized testing. It will only come from parents, teachers and school systems committed to their role each day in preparing our young people for a world of work that has grown to be global in size. It’s not all bad news, from the three interviews we’ve done on HHS graduates so far, there are some encouraging signs that our local school district should focus on. In the meantime, parents should let their kids enjoy the summer, attend camp, get involved in 4-H, attend the fair, take part in a summer library program, attend the No Family Left Indoors and other free or inexpensive local education programs. Perhaps the state should support programs that help students retain the progress they’ve made during the previous school year for students during the summer months. To be successful, kids need to know that education will become a lifelong effort that will be measured by each one’s sense of responsibility to be all they can be. think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website, www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week. Feel free to leave an opinion or comment. Last week’s question: The Hastings Public Library will be celebrating the fifth anniversary of its new building on East State Street, beginning June 7. Has the new library — built exclusively with private donations — been a good investment for the community? 100% 0% Yes No Fred Jacobs, vice president J-Ad Graphics. For this week: New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg has proposed a ban on sugary soft drinks of over 16 ounces in size to reduce obesity rates and increase public health. Are you in favor of such a ban? q q YES NO �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 7, 2012 — Page 5 Regional DNR office seeing changes, challenges IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV Dream of shelter altered by sheriff To the editor: About 13 years ago, the people of Barry County pulled together to rid our county of the shameful tax-funded animal shelter structure that had existed for too long. Adoptions of animals were extremely low, partly because few potential adopters were comfortable adopting from such a facility. Many healthy animals were euthanized. After months of discussions with the commissioners, calls to commissioners by constituents and letters in the Banner demanding a new structure, a deal was struck, allowing a new shelter to be built. The county agreed to contribute half the cost, if the balance of the cost could be raised through fundraising. So with this challenge, a group of caring people, including myself, volunteered countless hours to raise the needed $150,000, by holding fundraisers of all kinds, from bake sales to car races. Donations came in from local businesses, large and not-so-large individual donors, and even from kids emptying their piggy banks. The people of Barry County showed just how much they cared about the lost, unwanted dogs and cats in their county and finally had an animal shelter structure they could be proud of. However, along with the actual building came the expectation from these people that they would also see an increase in successful adoptions, fewer cats and dogs being euthanized and volunteers in the shelter to help with these goals. Sadly, during the 12 years since the current shelter has been open, very little progress has been made in these areas. The sheriff, who currently has responsibility for the operation of the shelter, has told county commissioners that he would like to have the county “stay out of the adoption business.” By adjusting the sheriff’s department’s responsibility to only animal control law enforcement and allowing a qualified individual (a director) with abilities and interests focused on the adoption aspect of the shelter, this could be accomplished. Those good people who worked so hard 12 years ago and gave so much of their time, talents and money did so believing that the shelter they built would be more than just “a temporary holding facility,” as the sheriff also has said to the commissioners. This structure was intended to be used not only for animal control enforcement, but also as a true animal shelter, actively seeking ways to find homes for the homeless dogs, cats, puppies and kittens brought to the facility. June 19, at 9 a.m. in the county courthouse, the board of commissioners will be evaluating various ideas with regard to management of the animal shelter, including hiring a director. For those individuals who were part of the shelter building effort 12 years ago and for those who have come to this county since then and care about getting animals adopted, this meeting of the commissioners is an opportunity to show their interest about current policy at the shelter. This board of commissioners is listening to what their constituents have to say, so it is important to let them hear opinions either before or at their June 19 meeting. The animals that enter our Barry County Animal Control/Shelter deserve every chance for a successful adoption into a loving home. It is up to all of us who care what happens to these animals to help them get that opportunity. Kathy Wiggins Castleton Township August primary vote critical To the editor: Barry Prosecutor Tom Evans will run for reelection this fall and he is being challenged in the August primary by former Assistant Prosecutor Julie Nakfoor Pratt. Whoever wins the primary election will be the Republican candidate for county prosecutor in the November general election. In Barry County, past voting patterns normally show a large plurality for the Republican candidate. Therefore the primary election on Aug. 7 is a critical choice. Tom Evans’ job performance has come under continued scrutiny and criticism in recent years, beginning with his handling of the 911 call center fiasco, which reportedly cost county taxpayers thousands of dollars. This was followed by the Justin Malik prosecution, resulting from the traffic death of Deputy Chris Yonkers in 2008. Recently, following sanctions and fines for failure to meet procedural requirements in the circuit court, Evans complained that the sanctions were politically motivated. Of late, several letters published in the Banner have criticized Evans’ performance. Admittedly some of these appear politically motivated, endorsing FALCON, continued from page 1 that had to be made to protect the district’s financial position, including the end of a bus run to the former Pleasantview School, putting that school up for sale, and privatizing custodial services. In a special school board meeting Aug. 1, 2011, numerous people — representing administration, teachers, custodians, bus drivers, other support personnel, parents and residents — were united in their support of Falcon, urging the board to appoint her as superintendent. Steve Hoke, assistant principal at the high school, was one of the people who addressed the board that evening. “This year, I have seen more positive things come out of our leadership team than I have in the 13 years prior to this,” Hoke said. When the school board began its search for a full-time superintendent in January, Falcon submitted an application but withdrew it before finalists were named and interviews began. Falcon will use accumulated vacation and personal days prior to her official resignation date, placing her final day in the district as June 22. Beck indicated that the board will consult with new superintendent Todd Geerlings when he arrives on July 1 as to how he would like to build the central office team. In addition to Falcon’s position, the district is also seeking a new manager of business services. “I have been fortunate for the opportunity of a lifetime,” Falcon told Beck in her resignation letter. “These two years have been extraordinary. With such a hardworking staff we have been able to make great strides in our school district. I have felt welcomed and appreciated in my tenure.” the challenger Julie Nakfoor Pratt as a replacement. The principal critic is private attorney David Gilbert, who is a former chief assistant Barry County prosecutor. Gilbert has announced he is running for prosecutor in Calhoun County. The office of county prosecutor is a very powerful and singularly important position in the criminal justice system. The prosecutor represents the citizens of the county in all adult criminal prosecutions. He or she is commonly referred to as chief law enforcement officer. How can voters evaluate a prosecutor’s performance? This becomes very difficult since most law enforcement personnel are forbidden to publically comment. Attorneys who practice here will not normally comment since it could directly affect their practices. Finally, it would be very unlikely that court personnel or judges would publically comment on the prosecutor’s performance. In Barry County, we are at least fortunate to have a local newspaper that is very active in reporting on county government and criminal proceedings. Without this information, voters would have very little on which to base their voting decisions. I would like to observe that in such research, it is sometimes just as important to consider “what you don’t hear or read.” Ask where are Mr. Evans’ supporters? How has he defended his performance in public? It is rare for a prosecutor to be sanctioned by the circuit court in this state. It is also important to note that the newly appointed circuit judge took such a courageous action with her own election pending this year. Voters should choose carefully and by all means vote in the August primary. James Tolsma, Hastings To the editor: This is the first of what I hope to be monthly updates related to Michigan Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Division activities in the Southwest Region. The purpose of these updates is to simply keep folks informed of what is going on in the region and division. In the past, we have accomplished this through various public meeting opportunities. Attendance at these meetings always seemed sporadic at best and seemed to be dictated by the current events on some of the state game areas. As a result of some changes in our region and dwindling participation, the March meeting was canceled. What exactly did change? The wildlife division has been going through multiple changes as a result of finalizing our strategic plan, www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,4570,7-15310370-232589--,00.html. In order to implement the objectives of this plan, our field staff was reorganized into regions. The Southwest Region now encompasses an area from Pentwater to Big Rapids to Lansing to Coldwater and back out to Lake Michigan. It now includes seven field offices and 26 fulltime employees. The second big change occurred when Sara Schaefer decided to step into the biologist position located at the Barry State Game Area. Sara served for many years as the Southwest supervisor and will continue her service with the DNR as the Barry biologist. She is readjusting to the good life as a biologist and will continue to be an active leader in wildlife conservation. Currently, the regional supervisor position is held by me in an acting capacity. At this point, we are unsure about when this position might be filled on a permanent basis. I will continue in my acting role until it is filled permanently or March 2013, whichever is first. Even more changes are on the horizon as the wildlife division faces challenges associated with reduced funding and fewer staff. Our leadership is using the strategic plan to help guide how best to proceed into an uncertain future. Recent efforts have aimed at determining which of our priorities are most important to wildlife conservation in Michigan. This will aid in determining how best to utilize existing resources for accomplishing our most important work. It may be that activities or projects that seem important to some will not be accomplished due to a lack of funding or human resources. Closer to home, some of the newsworthy topics we have been working on include hydraulic fracturing and black bears. In May, an auction was held in which mineral rights for parcels of land in Barry County were sold. For wildlife division lands, most of these parcels were provided in such a way that a company could purchase mineral rights, but not have any surface rights. This means they can not develop the wildlife division surface land to extract minerals. Companies can only extract gas or minerals if they have access from adjacent private land. Even so, this has raised some concerns among neighbors surrounding the Barry State Game and Yankee Springs Recreation areas. Citizens should speak out at county board meeting Many probably saw on the news of the bear or bears that visited Greenville in mid-May. Reports filtered in to DNR offices of bear sightings from Greenville through Lowell and as far south as the Grand Rapids airport before the bear moved back north. Several attempts were made to capture the animal to become part of our Southern Michigan Bear Study, but these were unsuccessful. At this point, we can only speculate that it was an Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Kathleen Oliver, Grand Rapids, (former long-time resident of Barry County) Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Bonnie Mattson • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Steve Chadwick, MDNR Southwest Region Supervisor, Plainwell Know Your Legislators: To the editor: The June 19 meeting of the Barry County Commissioners coming is an important meeting for citizens to attend. Right now, the Barry County Animal Shelter is supervised by the sheriff, and policy has been neither compassionate nor fair concerning the dogs and cats of Barry County. With too little done to promote animal adoptions, rates are low. Euthanasia rates, as a consequence, are high. Community volunteers who could help with animals at the shelter are discouraged. By citizens attending the June 19 meeting, commissioners can be encouraged to hire a director whose policies could promote community volunteerism and adoption as the alternative to so much killing. The animals can’t speak for themselves, so it is up to us to represent them in this life and death matter. The Hastings individual bear roaming around; however, we have received more reports of multiple bears along the Grand River corridor from Portland to Grand Rapids. We are interested in putting a collar on a bear this far south, so if you encounter one please contact the DNR. Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 77568542 �Page 6 — Thursday, June 7, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Hastings Middle School releases honor roll Worship Together… 77568366 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. CHURCH OF THE LIVING GOD A full gospel church. 1240 W. State Rd., Hastings. Pastor Doug Davis. 269-948-9740. Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study 6 p.m. Sunday School and Youth Group for all ages. Come and worship the Lord with us! . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. ORANGEVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH 6921 Marsh Rd., 2 miles south of Gun Lake, Plainwell. Phone 269664-4377. OrangevilleBaptist.org. Pastors Dan Bowman and Adam Parmenter. Sundays - 9:45-10:45 a.m. Sunday school classes for age 2 through adults; 11 a.m. Summer messages: “God’s Ten Words For a Vital Spiritual Life” (The Ten Commandments); 5:30 p.m. Teen Word of Life Club; 6 p.m. “Guard the Gospel” A study of 2 Timothy. Wednesdays - 7 p.m. prayer; 8:30 p.m. Men’s Bible Study. MondayFriday - July 9-13 - 9:30 a.m.-noon, Vacation Bible School, age 5-7th grade with Uncle Al Torres - RBM Minstries. Sunday, July 15 - Guest speaker, Dr. Eldon Stevens. Sunday, August 19 - Summer concert. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Rev. Ryan Wieland. Sundays - 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Service; Sunday School and Nursery available during both services (Summer Schedule - Adult Sunday School: 9 a.m., Worship & Children’s Programs 10 a.m.) Youth Group, Covenant Prayer, Choir, Chimes, Praise Band, Quilting Group, Community Breakfasts and more! Call the church office at (269) 721-8077 (M/W/F 9 a.m.-12 p.m.), e-mail office@mei.net or visit www.countrychapelumc.org <http://www.countrychapelumc.org/> for more information SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 . LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 9:15 Contemporary Worship, 10:30 a.m. Refreshments, 11 a.m. Traditional Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Youth Pastor, Eric Gillespie. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. for children and youth, and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Junior & Senior High Youth Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Mid-Week Pioneers and adult classes return in September. Thursday: Senior Adult Bible Study at 10 a.m. and lunch at Wendy’s, 11:30 a.m. Vacation Bible School: Wed. & Thurs., July 25 & 26, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Sunday, June 10 - Summer Hours Begin. Worship at 8 and 10 a.m. June 9 Worship Planning Committee 9-12 a.m. June 10 Noisy Offering for Love, Inc.; Graduation Reception after 2nd Service; Men’s AA at 7 p.m. June 11 - Spiritual AA at 7:30. June 12 Stewardship Committee Meeting at 6 p.m.; Youth Committee Meeting at 6 p.m. June 13 - Women of Faith Dinner Outing at 6 p.m.. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-9459414 or 945-2645, fax 269-9452698. Pastor Amy Luckey. http://www.discover-grace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service; 6 p.m. Adult Small Group. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www. firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot.com. Thursday - 6:30 p.m. Choir Rehearsal; 7 p.m. Church Softball Practice. Friday - 9 a.m. Pickleball; 9 a.m. Golfer’s Group Meets. Saturday - 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday - 4 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Tuesday - 6:30 p.m. Church Softball Game. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball; 6:30 p.m. Financial Peace University. Charles Maurice Cappon SPRINGFIELD, MO - Charles Maurice Cappon, age 73, passed away June 5, 2012 at Mercy Hospital, Springfield, MO. Visitation will be held Friday, June 8, 2012 from 6 to 7 p.m. at Evans Funeral Home Chapel. Services will be held Friday, June 8, 2012 at 7 p.m. at Evans Funeral Home Chapel, Dr. Howell Burkhead officiating. Burial will be Monday, June 11, 2012 at 10 a.m. at Riverside Cemetery in Hastings. He is preceded in death by his parents Charles and Anges (Murphy) Cappon; and wife Nancy. He is survived by close friend Linda Ustby and many friends made throughout the years. To send online condolences and to read the full obituary please visit www.evansfh.com. Under the direction of Evans Funeral Home, Houston, MO. Mead, *Samantha Mitchell, *Cassidy Monroe, Megan Morawski, Brenagan Murphy, Journi Neil, Jacklynn Nevins, *Christina Osterink, *Emily Pattok, *Timbree Pederson, Alexandra PerkinsCraven, Kathryn Pohl, Amanda Pyrzynski, *Alexis Replogle, *Samantha Richardson, *Alan Rivera, *Trevor Ryan, Charlie Simpson, *Madison Smith, Emily Sprague, *David Stephens, Camille VanDien, *Reese VanHouten, Sarah Watson, *Katherine Weinbrecht, Drew Westworth, Dylan Williams, Troy Yoder, Ryan Zimmerman. Honors Virginia Arechiga, Brianna Arens, Cheyann Arens, Abigail Baker, Michael Banister, Kipling Beck, Lauren Bloom, Chloe Case, Zackary Cummings, Lacie Cuningham, Jordan Davis, Jacob Dunn, Elijah Evans, Zachary Gibson, Tori Harding, Dillon Heath, Adriana Hoffman, Hailey Hughes, Daniel Koneska, Liberty Larsen, Makenna Lowell, Brittani Madden, Ramsie Rairigh, Zachary Sanders, Ryan Smelker, Madeline Solmes, Hannah Trick, Grace Trowbridge, Kailee Tucker, Emily Turashoff, Justin Voshell, Mark Walden, Braeden Wescott. Sixth grade High honors Alex Allerding, *Megan Birman, Ilie Bivens, *Callie Borden, *Baili Bowers, *Tyler Brown, *Abby Burroughs, *Kayla Carlson, *Jerry Christensen, Karlee Christiansen, Austin Christie, Samantha Clow, Garrett Coltson, Emalie Conroy, Alleyna Davis, Mary Elizabeth DePriester, *Maggie Eastman, Madison Ellsworth, Zoe Engle, *Morgan Feldt, Kaila Gillespie, Dylan Goodrich, *Dayton Graham, Cayden Herrington, Matthew Hewitt, *Shayli Hinkle, Austin Hoffman *Lillian Hyatt, *Tyler Johnson, *Margaret Keller-Bennett, Kenneth Kirchen, *Carley Laubaugh, Tessah Leary, *Adam Lewis, Jackson Long, *Nash Martin, Sarah McKeever, *Nathan Meyers, *August Miller, *Brandon Miner, Caitlyn Morris, Alizabeth Morrison, Ava Morrison, *Sydney Nemetz, Aaron Newberry, Andrew Newberry, *Wyatt Owen, *Citlali Perez, *Emma Porter, *Emma Post, Austin Raymond, *Chyanne Rea, *Blake Roderick, Alexia Rodriguez, Macey Shotts, *Aubree Shumway, Ty Sinclair, Samantha Smith, Wyatt Smith, *Lindsey Spurlock, Mason Steward, *Colin Tellkamp, Bridget Thayer, Pierson Tinkler, *Elliza Tolles, Carter Tomko, Ian Trutsch, *Cameron White, *Lillian Wierenga, *Jordyn Wigg, Nicholas Wilgus, *Harleigh Willson, Madalyne Young, *Kylie Zimmerman. Honors Gabriella Bare, Morgan Bartimus, Melanie Boysen, Aliyah Campbell, Timothy Cary, Chase Cobb, Alexander Diljack, Alexis Evans, Tanner Gardner, Alan Hammond, Caitlin Hyland, Beken Kaufman, Allera Keller, Mitchell Morris, Jaden Rosenberg, Michael Royal, Jessica Satterfield, Brandon Smith, Brandon Standley, Mary Terpening, Logan Twiss, Meggen Tyrrell, Austin Walden, Elizabeth Watson, Mackenzie Watson, Austen Wilder, Julianna Wolf, Jared Wright, Brittany Wurm. Thornapple Players presenting three one-act plays this weekend Thornapple Players Frank White and Danielle Brower rehearse “The Ugly Duckling.” The community theater group will present three one-act plays on the evenings of June 7, 8 and 9. The plays include “The Still Alarm” by George S. Kauffman, “The Ugly Duckling” by A.A. Milne and “The Twelve-Pound Look” by J.M. Barrie. Performances start each evening at 7 p.m. in Leason Sharpe Hall at the Barry Community Enrichment Center, 231 S. Broadway in Hastings. Seating is limited. Tickets are $6 for children, students, and senior citizens; $8 for adults. Tickets are available at the door and at Progressive Graphics on South Jefferson Street in Hastings. For more information, call 269-945-2332. 77568381 GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. Zachery Allyn, *Benjamin Anderson, Nicholas Baum, Emily Borton, Richard Buskirk, Samuel Cappon, *Justin Carlson, Andres Carmona *Jordyn Coats, Clay Coltson, Lynlee Cotton, *Madeline Dailey, *Aaron Denny, Sarah Dittman, *Sarah Ellwood, Elijah Flood, Thomas Furrow, *Scott Garber, *Caroline Garrison, Kailey Gilbert, *Abigail Girrbach, Zlatko Granzow, *Aaron Hamlin, Taylor Harding, Charles Hayes, *Austin Haywood, Lezlie Herrington, Daniel Hooten, Katie Jacob, *Michael James, *Brittney Johnson, Caleb Keech, *Anna Kendall, ZhiXiang Li, Shelby Mack, *Alexander Maurer, *Matthew Maurer, *Rebecca Maurer, *Maryn McCausey, *Alex McMahon, *Emalee Metzner, Emma Morawski, *Margaret Nicholson-Marsh, *Raelee Olson, Sarah Olson, Anna Pattok, *Kylie Pickard, Sara Porter, *Owen Post, *Jacqueline Rosenberg, *Adam Shaeffer, Megan Slagel, *Samantha Slatkin, *Jesslyn Slaughter, *Rachel Smith, *Lee Stowe, *Kaetlynne Teunessen, *Morgan Tolles, Antonio Tompson, *Renee Walden, *Connor Wales, Mikayla Warner, Brittney Wellman, *Jacob Wilgus, Emmalee Yates, *Madeline Youngs, *Tyler Youngs. Honors Brittany Abbott, Autumn Ackles, Macey Acker, Jeanne Bekampis, JadeBoersma, Timothy Campbell, Megan Carpenter, Emily DeZwaan,Faith Garber, Dylan Gleeson, Jarred Harmon-Criss, Jennifer Hay, Connor High, Haley Johns, Justice Lamance, Haley Landon, Kimberly Landon, Hannah Leary, Christopher Lewis, Thomas Lindsey, Abigail McKeever, George Murphy, Connor Musculus, Jannah Newton, Katie Pack, Krylan Pederson, Kelsy Potter, Jonathan Shepler, Sakora Stout, Angellica Washington, Stephanie Wezell, Katherine Wilcox, Noah Wilson. Seventh grade High honors *Mara Allan, Morgan Armour, *Megan Backe, Jenelle Bailey, *Olivia Barrett, Brianna Beck, Ian Bleam, Alexis Bloomberg, Destiny Burch, Zoe Campbell, Calvin Cappon, Emily Casarez, Kayleigh Collins, *Jonathan Cook, *Abigail Czinder, Samuel Dakin, *Jenna Ehredt, *Joseph Feldpausch, Mark Feldpausch, Logan Fish, *Reilly Former, Stevie Fuhr, *Aaron Gibson, *Mary Green, Rilee Hammond, *Claire Harris, *Ethan Hart, Jazmine Heath, *Elizabeth Heide, Kourtney Hubbert, *Madeline Hutchins, Hannah Joerin-Horning, Nicholas Johnson, Samuel Johnson, TatianaJones, Alexis Kelmer, Ethan Klipfer, *Katie Kuzava, Nicholas Larabee, *Jack Longstreet, *Olivia 77568378 achieving a 4.0 are indicated with an asterisk (*). Students who earned a grade point average of 3.0 or to 3.49 are listed in honors. Eighth grade High honors 77568372 Hastings Middle School has released its final honor roll for the 2011-12 academic year. Students who earned a grade point average of 3.5 to 4.0 are listed in high honors; those 77568384 Fiberglass Products Lauer Family Funeral Homes 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 77568375 This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: �Newborn Babies Chloe Jane, born at Pennock Hospital on May 22, 2012 at 3:05 to Jennifer and Devan Endres of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs., 14 ozs.; 20 inches long. ***** Isabella Jane, born at Pennock Hospital on May 22, 2012 at 10:59 p.m. to Courtney and Joel Gibbons of Hastings. Weighing 5 lbs., 7 ozs.; 19.5 inches long. ***** Malcolm Anthony, born at Pennock Hospital on May 21, 2012 at 8:02 to Rosemary Anger and Jeffrey Kniaz of Hastings. Weighing 8 lbs., 2 ozs.; 20 inches long. ***** Ava Rose, born at Pennock Hospital on May 23, 2012 at 8:37 a.m. to Kali Gonzalez of Hastings. Weighing 6 lbs., 1 oz.; 19 inches long. ***** Heath Lewis, born at Pennock Hospital on May 26, 2012 at 5:18 p.m. to Dustin and Nicole Davis of Nashville. Weighing 7 lbs., 1 oz.; 19 inches long. ***** Nevaeh Ivy Chenoa, born at Pennock Hospital on May 25, 2012 at 8:06 a.m. to Brian and Carrie Swan of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs., 7 ozs.; 20 1/4 inches long. Lake Odessa by Elaine Garlock The Ionia County Genealogical Society will meet Saturday, June 9, at 1 p.m. at the Freight House on Emerson Street. Last week, work resumed on Johnson Street on the water main project begun in the fall. Workers are back to make the connection from the new water main that runs from Fourth Avenue along Johnson Lane to Twin City Foods’ property to make a circuit. This week’s project will connect the new main to the existing water line which has served residents on Johnson Street since the first lines were run nearly a century ago. the paving was removed and the excavating began on the west side of the street beneath the edge of the tar. Workers encountered some surprises. In one catch basin, they found four clay tiles bringing in water. Village maps have no record of any such drains. Who put in the tiles and from whence comes the water? Likely they were installed by residents who had no idea they were expected to notify anyone from the village or the county drain commissioner. The water main runs through the catch basin. The Ionia chapter of Michigan Association of Retired School Personnel will meet June 21 for its annual picnic meeting on Yeomans Street at the Rheam home. The meal will be catered by the Heartlands food classes. The superintendents of the county will attend as guests and relate their schools’ progress and current situations. The spring recital of piano students of Patricia Werdon was held May 31 at Central United Methodist Church. The young players had surprising abilities. There were twice as many boys in the recital as girls. Grandchildren of the late Lester Yonkers who returned for his funeral last week came from Ohio, El Salvador, Ada, California, Cloverdale, southern Indiana and elsewhere. Grandson Benjamin Johnson, who is teaching in Taiwan, was unable to attend. Social News The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 7, 2012 — Page 7 Vreugde-Snow James and Denise Vreugde of Hastings wish to announce the engagement of their daughter, Jamie Vreugde, to Andrew Snow, the son of Nolan and Sue Snow of Olivet and Joyce Snow and Alan Hanson of Hastings. The bride-elect is a graduate of Hastings High School and is currently employed with HCR Manor Care of Battle Creek and Best Care Nursing Services. The groom-elect is a graduate of Battle Creek High School and is currently employed with Key Cleaning Services. An October 20, 2012 wedding is being planned. Warners to celebrate 70th wedding anniversary Bill and Orretta Warner will celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary on June 9, 2012, from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Middleville United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall. They were married on June 10, 1942, at this church by the Reverend Ira E. Carley. Children of the couple are Barbara Greenfield (deceased), Deloris (Jerry) Bradley, Gary Warner, Thomas (Janet) Warner, and Carol Robinson. To help them celebrate they invite family and friends to an Open House at the Fellowship Hall at the United Methodist Church in Middleville. Ice cream and cake will be served. They request “no gifts.” Your presence will be their gift. Force-Hobert Ashton and Camron Hobert wish to announce the engagement of their mother Heather Force to Howard Hobert III. Heather is the daughter of Richard and Tammie Force of Dowling. Howard is the son of Teresa Dinger of Kalamazoo. Heather is a stay at home mother while Howard is employed at Aunt Millie’s Bakery in Kalamazoo. The couple are planning their wedding ceremony in August 2012. Stay informed on local events... Subscribe to The Hastings BANNER! Call 945-9554 Cliff Bustance celebrates 80th birthday Cliff Bustance celebrated his 80th birthday on June 6. Wishes come from wife, Karen; three sons, Bob (Betty), Gary (Tracy) and David (MaryAnn); grandchildren and great grandchildren and Betsy and Isaac. Trolley Around Town FREE TROLLEY RIDES Ride downtown for dinner, view the new sculptures, shop, get some ice cream, have coffee or drinks, visit the park... Fridays from 6pm to 10pm Now thru August 17 201 S. JEFFERSON ST., HASTINGS (corner of Jefferson & Court St.) 269-945-0100 The City of Hastings will be the venue this summer for the newest Trolley route. Every Friday night, now through August 17, the Trolley will ring through the streets from 6pm to 10pm. Catch it at any of the schools in the city limits, any city park, and other designated stops, or just flag it down on its route. All rides FREE compliments of the local businesses listed here. 269.945.3412 312 E. Court St., Hastings Look to us for all your jewelry, watch and clock repairs. Gilmore Jewelers 102 E. State Street In the Heart of Hastings RESTAURANTE 269-945-9572 945-4403 • 131 South Jefferson, Hastings www.gilmorejewelers.com HOURS: Mon. - Thurs. 11-8; Fri. 11-9; Sat. 11-8:30; Sun. 12-3 Join us on Facebook 1120 West Green, Hastings 945-4174 • Live Music • Outdoor Dining Browse through our site: www.countyseatlounge.com 128 South Jefferson St. Downtown Hastings 269-945-2401 269.948.4042 150 W. Court St., Hastings, MI 49058 Est. 1983 • comfortably, sophisticated ambiance • unique flavor combinations • enviable wine list • signature cocktails • unrivaled coffees 150 W. State St. • Downtown Hastings • 269.948.9222 SeasonalGrille.com Thank you Barry County Transit would like to thank the City of Hastings, and the sponsoring merchants for their help in making this service possible. 77568527 945-3405 404 E. Woodlawn Ave. Hastings, MI 49058 �Page 8 — Thursday, June 7, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Financial FOCUS BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY by Gerald Stein Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of EDWARD JONES NORTH N: 4 2 M: Q J 9 8 6 5 L: K Q 4 2 K: 9 WEST N: K J 9 5 M: 10 2 L: 8 K: A Q 10 4 3 2 Automatic investing can pay off for you EAST N: Q 10 8 7 6 M: A 3 L: 10 9 7 K: J 8 6 SOUTH: N: A 3 M: K 7 4 L: A J 6 5 3 K: K 7 5 Dealer: South Vulnerable: East-West Lead: Pick it North East 2H 4H 2S Pass South 1NT 3H Pass West 2C 3S Pass After a competitive auction, the North-South team in today’s hand arrived at a Four Heart contract. With an opening bid of 1NT by South (15-17 high card points and a stopper in every suit), the North-South team seemed to have the edge in the auction. North knew that his partner had at least two hearts in his hand to make the no trump bid, so the North-South team was extremely confident that they had a Golden Fit in hearts with six hearts in the north hand, and three in the south hand. Conversely, the East-West team, while trying to compete in this auction, was either outgunned or frightened off by the one no trump opening bid by South. This team too had a Golden Fit in two suits: spades and clubs with nine cards in spades and nine cards in clubs. The four heart bid eliminated the four club bid, which, by the way, can make four clubs in the East-West hands. That leaves the only open bid for the East-West team at four spades, but with unfavorable vulnerability, it appeared that the East-West team was unwilling to go for the four spade bid even though it might have been a good sacrifice to do so. Looking at the total points in the four hands, it is not too difficult to see East-West’s thinking on the bidding from their perspective. What was known from the first bid was that South had at least 15 high card points. West, with a fine six-card club suit was well-situated to overcall in clubs and enter the bidding war with ten high card points, two more length points plus a singleton in diamonds and a doubleton in hearts. West was comfortable with her bid. North entered the bidding next with a free response bid of two hearts, having six hearts, eight high card points, and shortness in clubs and spades. North knew that no trump would not be a good contract and steered the auction to a heart contract. East, then, used the spade bid as a way to enter the bidding and to let his partner know that he had at least five spades, seven high card points, and shortness in hearts. Looking, then, at the total number of points spread around the table, it is easy to see that the North-South team has the preponderance of points with 23 high card points and a good fit in hearts. However, the East-West team, even though they have a club fit and a spade fit, can muster only 17 high card points, a far cry from the 25-26 points needed for a game in a major suit. Interestingly, the contract was won out by the North-South team, and they can make four hearts easily indeed if they are handed the contract by the East-West team. If they take an extra trick at this contract, due to poor defense by the East-West team, they will do even better, and they will win the majority of points on this hand. Unfortunately for the East-West team, even though they had only 17 high card points, they are the self-inflicted victims here of non-aggressive bidding. For, it is clear to all that the EastWest team can prevail at four spades. The team will lose one spade, the Ace of spades; they will lose one heart trick, since they have the Ace of hearts to cover the other loser; and they will lose one diamond trick. True, East will have to finesse the King of clubs, but that is a given with the one no trump bidding by South. All in all, the East-West team, thinking that they should not sacrifice because of the unfavorable vulnerability, missed a game that could have put them on the top of the list on that hand instead of at the bottom. Bridge is a bidding game. Bid and you will see that aggressive bidding is the norm in today’s bridge world. ***** Bridge Question for this week: What is meant by a Golden Fit in bridge lingo? ***** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) To achieve investment success, you don’t have to start out with a huge sum or “get lucky” by picking “hot” stocks. In fact, very few people actually travel those two routes. But in working toward your investment goals, you need to be persistent — and one of the best ways to demonstrate that persistence is to invest automatically. How do you become an “automatic” investor? You simply need to have your bank automatically move money each month from a checking or savings account into the investments of your choice. When you’re first starting out in the working world, you may not be able to afford much, but any amount — even if it’s just $50 or $100 a month — will be valuable. Then, as your career progresses and your income rises, you can gradually increase your monthly contributions. By becoming an automatic investor, you can gain some key benefits, including these: • Discipline — Many people think about investing but decide to wait until they have “a little extra cash.” Before they realize it, they’ve used the money for other purposes. When you invest automatically, you’re essentially taking a spending decision “out of your hands.” And as you see your accounts grow over time, your investment discipline will be self-reinforcing. • Long-term focus — There’s never any shortage of events — political crises, economic downturns, natural disasters — that cause investors to take a “timeout” from investing. Yet if you head to the investment sidelines, even for a short while, you might miss out on some good opportunities. By investing automatically each month, you’ll maintain a long-term focus. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 31.80 -.33 AT&T 34.06 +.12 BP PLC 36.81 -1.30 CMS Energy Corp 23.30 +.02 Coca-Cola Co 73.24 -2.22 Eaton 40.09 -3.68 Family Dollar Stores 67.50 +.18 Fifth Third Bancorp 12.23 -1.29 Flowserve CP 102.50 -5.83 Ford Motor Co. 10.19 -.65 General Mills 37.80 -1.27 General Motors 21.30 +1.55 Intel Corp. 25.43 -.66 Kellogg Co. 48.20 -2.28 McDonald’s Corp 87.08 -3.82 Pfizer Inc. 21.60 -.58 Ralcorp 62.70 -3.09 Sears Holding 47.50 -9.65 Spartan Motors 4.35 +.03 Spartan Stores 16.95 +.13 Stryker 50.79 -1.80 TCF Financial 10.61 -1.16 Walmart Stores 65.50 -.18 Gold $1618.93 +$61.10 Silver $28.57 +.67 Dow Jones Average 12,127 -454 Volume on NYSE 664M -5M • Potential for reduced investment costs — If you invest the same amount of money each month into the same investments, you’ll automatically be a “smart shopper.” When prices drop, your monthly investment will buy more shares, and when prices rise, you’ll buy fewer shares — just as you’d probably buy less of anything when prices are high. Over time, this type of systematic investment typically results in lower costs per share. Furthermore, when you invest systematically, you’re less likely to constantly buy and sell investments in an effort to boost your returns. This type of frequent trading is often ineffective — and it can raise your overall investment costs with potential fees, commissions and taxes. (Keep in mind, though, that systematic investing does not guarantee a profit or protect against loss. Also, you’ll need the financial resources available to keep investing through up and down markets.) Clearly, automatic investing offers some major advantages to you as you seek to build wealth. Of course, if you’re contributing to a 401(k) or other employer-sponsored retirement plan, you’re already automatically investing because money is taken out of your paycheck at regular intervals to go toward the investments you’ve chosen in your plan. But by employing automatic investing techniques to other vehicles, such as an Individual Retirement Account (IRA), you can continue your progress toward your long-term goals, including retirement. So, do what it takes to become an automatic investor. It’s easy, it’s smart — and it can help you work toward the type of future you’ve envisioned. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. An epidemic of whooping cough by Dr. E. Kirsten Peters Even if you don’t have kids in your household, you could be exposed to serious diseases that often affect children. And at the moment, there’s a sharp spike upward in one contagious disease that you could help protect yourself and youngsters against by getting a simple shot at the doctor’s office. Vaccines stand at the heart of medical science that help protect us against a number of serious, contagious diseases. They may not grant us perfect immunity, but they have helped transform the landscape of a number of problems that used to plague us, particularly in childhood. That’s my take on the general issues of vaccination and, in particular, the vaccine against whooping cough, or pertussis. Pertussis is a serious bacterial disease that leads to a strong cough that lasts for weeks. Occasionally, whooping cough can even be fatal, especially for infants. It gets its distinctive name from the “whooping” sound victims make as they gasp for air after bouts of serious coughing. My own fair state of Washington has declared an epidemic for whooping cough. According to The New York Times, Washington State has had almost 1,300 cases so far this year, and that’s a whopping 10 times the number we had a year ago. We are on track to hit totals not seen since the 1940s, before vaccines were widely used against pertussis. Happily, no deaths have thus far been reported, but looking at the numbers of cases alone, state authorities have declared an official epidemic. Whooping cough can strike people of any age, but it’s riskiest mostly for infants, being fatal about 1 percent of the time. I find that sobering, and it makes me think it’s worth assuming some risk getting vaccinated to help protect the young. One reason my home state may be having a high proportion of pertussis cases is that we have the highest percentage of parents nationwide who decline to vaccinate their kids. Some do so out of fear of side See us for color copies, one-hour photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits effects from the shots; some because of religious or other concerns. The New York Times staff talked with Dr. Thomas Clark of the Centers for Disease Control about the matter, and he said the modern vaccine for pertussis may be another factor in the current outbreak of disease. In the 1990s, the vaccine was modified to limit side effects, and Clark said the immunity granted by the vaccine doesn’t last as long as would be ideal. On the good side, even if you do come down with pertussis, if you had the vaccine against it, you’ll likely come down with a milder case than you would otherwise. The adult booster for whooping cough is called “Tdap,” which stands for tetanus, diphtheria and acellular pertussis. The Associated Press reported that we adults contribute quite a bit to the pertussis problem. There are more adults in the general population than there used to be (in other words, the population is aging) and unless adults regularly get booster shots, the disease is always threatening to spike upward. That’s why wherever you live throughout the nation, authorities recommend you ask your doctor about your vaccination status the next time you go in for a medical visit. I think this is a case in which we all individually need to do our bit because public health programs have been cut in recent years. As a byproduct of the recession, the efforts of health departments have been curtailed in many states. While nobody likes to get a shot, the risks of not having one are real — both for ourselves and for little ones among us. Dr. E. Kirsten Peters, a native of the rural Northwest, was trained as a geologist at Princeton and Harvard universities. Follow her online at rockdoc.wsu.edu and on Twitter @RockDocWSU. This column is a service of the College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences at Washington State University. Area Locations to purchase the Hastings Banner! Middleville: Speedway Middleville Marketplace Greg’s Get-It-N-Go Shell Cloverdale: Cloverdale General Brown’s Cedar Creek Grocery Gun Lake: Sam’s Gourmet Foods Gun Lake Amoco Gun Lake Shell Delton: Felpausch Michigan Short Stop Shell Banfield: Banfield General Store Orangeville: Orangeville Fast Stop Lacey: Clyde’s Sportsman Post Pine Lake: Pine Lake Grocery Dowling: Goldsworthys Dowling General Store Woodland: Woodland Express www.river-ridge.biz Freeport: L & J’s Freeport Milling Shelbyville: Weick’s Food Town The Store at Southshore 77566089 Prairieville: Prairieville Fast Stop Nashville: Trading Post Little’s Country Store Shell MV Pharmacy Nashville C Store Carl’s Lake Odessa: Lake-O-Express Lake-O-Mart Shell Carl’s 07600542 Hastings: One Stop Shop (BP) (M-43 North) Tom’s Market Superette Family Fare One Stop Food (BP) (M-37 South) Hastings Speedy Mart (Shell) Bosley Admiral Penn-Nook Gift Shop P.B. Gas Station (W. State St.) BP Gas Station (M-37 West) Xpress Mart Family Fare Gas Station Woody’s General Store �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 7, 2012 — Page 9 MODERN METHODS – Few Barry County farms boast a five-ton crawler tractor or a 5, 14-inch bottom plow, but Gordon Endsley and his son Robert find the equipment plus other gear necessary in working their 536-acre farm which was the 19th pictured in the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz. Gordon is pictured returning from a field with the tractor and plow. Normally, the Endsleys hook an eight-foot tandem disc behind the plow. – Photo by Barth. Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz revisited WAY TO DO IT – The tiling operation on the Robert Falconer farm, which was the 18th pictured in the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz, is pictured above. The new Baldwin Bros. tiling machine is pictured digging the trench for the four-inch tile being placed by Charles Biele, Vermontville. Glenn Wilson, a neighbor, is watching. The operator is Carl Baldwin. Ben Falconer, Bob’s father, is at the left, and in the background is Robert Baldwin. – Photo by Barth. This is the ninth part of a series reprinting the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz promotion that ran in the Banner 60 years ago. An unidentified aerial photo of an area farm was pictured in the Banner each week, from Jan. 24 to July 17, 1952, and the owners of the mystery farms were featured in the paper the following week. The contest was sponsored by the Banner and 35 area merchants (who were listed in the April 12 edition of the Banner). ***** Hastings Banner, May 15, 1952 Lucky Farmers improving acreage by drainage Improving agricultural establishments is the rule among Barry County farmers, and the owners of the 18th farm pictured in the current Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz are not exception. The Lucky Farmers are Mr. and Mrs. Robert L. Falconer, Route 2, Hastings, whose farm northwest of here is in both Irving and Carlton townships – their house is in Irving and their barn is in Carlton, divided by the town line road. A major improvement being completed this spring by the Falconers is the draining of 25 acres of muckland on their own 100-acre place, another 15 acres of land owned by Mrs. Charles Edwards but worked by them. The Falconers are also erecting a new cement silo. Draining muckland from three to five feet deep at one time was a back-breaking chore, but the Falconers had their job done by Baldwin Bros., who moved in their new ditching machine costing $12,000, and the entire tiling job was done in less than two days. Previously almost two miles of open ditches were dug on the area by the Baldwin Bros. crane. The four-inch tile drains the water into the open ditches and it is carried to the Bull and Edwards drain and eventually into Middle Lake. Cost of digging the open ditches ran about $520, and digging the trenches and laying the tile ran an estimated $200. That does not include a great deal of the necessary labor. On one 100-foot stretch, tile at one end was 42 inches down, and at the other was five feet and still had a three-foot fall. Bob Falconer this year intends to seed the are to corn and is not certain what future crops will be planted there. His father, Ben Falconer, who lives at Leach Lake, said that one year he raised 90 tons of cabbage on four acres of the muck. Bob and his wife, the former Myrtle Norton, whose mother lives at Leach Lake, purchased their 100 acres from Bob’s dad in April of 1946. It was the Falconer homestead, and Ben had farmed it about 31 years before selling to his son. The Falconers have a mixed herd of 23 cattle, and he is milking 10 now, selling the cream to the creamery and using the skim milk for his cattle and pigs. They also have about 400 chickens. NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF BARRY INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL DISTRICT PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT THERE WILL BE A PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING THE PROPOSED 2012-2013 BUDGET AT THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF BARRY INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL DISTRICT: DATE OF MEETING JUNE 12, 2012 PLACE OF MEETING BARRY ISD ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE HOUR OF MEETING 8:00 A.M. TELEPHONE NUMBER OF THE SUPERINTENDENT’S OFFICE (269) 945-9545 BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING MINUTES ARE LOCATED AT: BARRY ISD ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE 535 WEST WOODLAWN AVENUE HASTINGS, MI 49058-1038 A COPY OF THE PROPOSED 2012-2013 BUDGET INCLUDING THE PROPOSED PROPERTY TAX MILLAGE RATE IS AVAILABLE FOR PUBLIC INSPECTION DURING NORMAL BUSINESS HOURS AT: BARRY ISD ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE 535 WEST WOODLAWN AVENUE HASTINGS, MI 49058-1038 PURPOSE OF MEETING: 1. Public discussion on the proposed 2012-2013 budget. The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget will be a subject of this hearing. The Board may not adopt its proposed 2012-2013 budget until after the public hearing. Sharon Boyle Secretary, Board of Education Barry Intermediate School District 77568530 Bob, who has a two-plow tractor, a combine, corn picker, field chopper and other labor-saving equipment, is a veteran of infantry fighting in the Pacific during World War II. He entered the Army in December, 1942, and was released in December, 1945, taking part in the Luzon, New Guinea and other campaigns, and also served with the occupation forces in Japan. He was born Oct. 21, 1922, and attended Hastings High School. Mrs. Falconer also attended high school here. They were married Feb. 9, 1946, at the Presbyterian Manse here by the Rev. Leason Sharpe. They moved on the farm right after their marriage. Bob uses a three-year corn, oats and hay rotation on his own place. Last year, he put up grass silage and reports his production was good and he was well satisfied with the results. With two silos, this year he expects to put up both grass and corn silage. ***** Hastings Banner, May 22, 1952 Technological progress shown on Lucky Farm Technological progress, the key to American business and agricultural success, is no more vividly portrayed in this area than on the farm worked by Gordon Endsley and his son, Robert, located a mile south of Coats Grove and a half-mile east on the Bayne Road. The Endsley’s 536-acre establishment was the 19th pictured in the series of 26 farms Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz. The Endsleys utilize a five-ton crawler tractor, a 5, 14-inch bottom plow, eight-foot tandem discs, a field chopper, cultipacker, and other equipment and are getting a new uniharvester – a unit for self-propelling the combine or two-row corn picker. Powerful, efficient equipment is necessary as the Endsleys – like most other farmers – have difficulty obtaining competent farm labor. They have all the equipment to continue marketing Grade A milk but shortage of labor forced them to abandon the dairy business last summer. They keep 60 to 70 head of Holstein heifers HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, June 7 — Christina Keller speaks on Pulling in the Same Direction — Help Your Community Find a Way to Do the Right Thing, 2 to 4 p.m.; Movie Memories enjoys Tarzan the Ape Man, 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, June 8 — preschool story time enjoys stories about summer, 10:30 to 11 a.m. Monday, June 11 — summer reading continues, “Dream Big, Read;” Kathy Crane art exhibit continues; computer class learns about downloading electronic books and audio books, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 12 — toddler story time enjoys stories about fathers, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30; open chess club, 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, June 13 — summer reading program features Maciek the Magician, 2 to 3 p.m. Call the Hastings Public Library for more information about any of the above, 269-9454263. Call anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads 269-945-9554 just in case they can get back into it. Gordon Endsley is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Sherman Endsley and he was born at Martin Corners Sept. 4, 1902. Mrs. Endsley is the former Wilma “Greta” Bayne, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Bayne, who reside at Coats Grove. Gordon’s mother lives with Gordon and Greta, and has her own private apartment in their home. Both Gordon and Greta attended rural schools and Hastings High. Mrs. Endsley finished high school in 1921 and after completing a year at Barry County Normal , taught at the Pratt School for a year. They were married Feb. 27, 1923, in the house where their son, Robert, now lives. They purchased their first 80 acres on the old Charles Barry farm from Gordon’s mother. In 1935 they obtained two 72s. One from Gordon’s brother, Orton, and the other from his dad’s estate. Later, he traded the 72s for the 80 acres east, then bought 160 acres in 1942 and the remainder in 1946, bringing their total land to 536 acres. The Endsleys use a four crop – corn, oats, wheat, hay – rotation. This year they put in 140 acres of oats, 100 acres of corn and 70 acres of wheat. Last winter they fed out about 100 head of livestock. The Endsleys keep no work horses but have two Shetland ponies for Robert’s children, Gordon Robert, 5; Linden Lane, 3, and Paul, 1. They used to keep strong teams and have won horsepulling contests at the Barry County Fair. It takes time to train horses for pulling contests, Endsley said, in explaining one reason why they haven’t continued it. The Endsleys are “sold” on using crawlertype tractors, and have had them for five years. They also have two wheel tractors. The Endsleys are practically self-sufficient, but like urban residents have been buying potatoes, wrapped in tissue paper. Their soil is heavy clay and not conducive to growing good potatoes, he said. Gordon even does his own welding and has made most of the improvements in the large, modern home himself – even the plastering. Mrs. Endsley, a Tigers baseball fan, can watch games on TV while working in her modern kitchen. Gordon gives much of the credit for his success of the farming operation to his son, Robert, 27, whom he said was able to run a Model D with the best of them since he was 9 years old. RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN 2011-2015 PODUNK LAKE IMPROVEMENT PROJECT (AQUATIC VEGETATION CONTROL) NOTICE OF JUNE 13, 2012 HEARING ON PROPOSED REDETERMINATION OF COSTS AND REVISED SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS FOR 2012-2015 TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN; OWNERS OF PROPERTY ABUTTING OR HAVING DEEDED ACCESS TO PODUNK LAKE IN LAND SECTIONS 26, 27 AND 34 OF RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP; AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE the Township Clerk has reported to the Township Board the actual costs incurred by the Township to implement the improvement project approved by the Township Board in 2011 have significantly exceeded the estimated costs submitted by the service provider for the improvement (Lake Savers, LLC) upon which the affected property owners and the Township Board relied to proceed with the project. The Township Clerk has further reported the actual cost of the electricity necessary to operate the system installed by Lake Savers will likely continue to significantly exceed the estimated electricity costs, for the duration of the five year project. The Resolution confirming the 2011-2015 Special Assessment Roll for the Podunk Lake Improvement Project approved by the Township Board on April 13, 2011, and the published and mailed Notice for the prior public hearings, indicated the special assessments for 2012-2015 will be subject to annual redetermination by the Township Board without further notice or hearing, when the actual costs of the yearly program and any relevant administrative costs are known. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that due to the significant difference between the cost estimates submitted by Lake Savers and the actual costs incurred and further expected to be incurred for the duration of the project, the Township Board is exercising its discretion to hold a further public hearing on the proposed redetermination of costs and the resulting revised 2012-2015 special assessments necessary to pay those costs. This public hearing will be held at the Rutland Charter Township Hall at 2461 Heath Road, Hastings, Michigan, on Wednesday, June 13, 2012 in conjunction with a regular meeting of the Township Board commencing at 7:30 p.m. The costs for the improvement project over the five year program (including legal and administrative expenses) are now projected to total approximately $99,625. The original total cost estimate for the project was $73,070. The Township is proposing to revise the 2012-2015 special assessments to collect the amount necessary to cover the presently projected costs of the program in the approximate total amount of $85,620 ($21,405 per year), after subtracting the amount of the 2011 special assessment revenues ($14,005). This will result in the following revised special assessments on the various lots and parcels within the special assessment district for 2012-2015, based on the same allocation method used for the initial 2011-2015 special assessment roll (in each instance treating multiple contiguous lots/parcels under the same ownership as a single assessment unit): • $397.36 per year to each lot/parcel abutting Podunk Lake ($1,589.44 total over four years). • $328.86 per year to each lot/parcel abutting primarily the channel of Podunk Lake ($1,315.44 total over four years). • $152.69 per year to each lot/parcel abutting neither Podunk Lake nor the channel but having deeded access to Podunk Lake ($610.76 over four years). PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE these proposed redetermined costs and revised special assessments may be subject to further annual redetermination and revision by the Township Board in 2013-2015 if the actual costs of the yearly program continue to exceed the presently projected costs on which the revised special assessments are based. Any such further annual redetermination of costs and revised special assessments as may prove to be necessary will be made at a regular meeting of the Township Board in AprilJune 2013–2015, or thereabouts, without further notice or hearing except as may be required by law or as may be further determined by the Township Board; provided that the allocation of individual special assessments resulting from any such further annual redetermination shall again be based on the same allocation method. More detailed information relating to the actual costs incurred and projected by the Township, compared to the initial cost estimates from Lake Savers, LLC, can be obtained by contacting the Township Clerk and will further be explained at the public hearing. The foregoing hearing and all proceedings associated with these special assessment matters will be conducted in accordance with and pursuant to 1954 PA 188, as amended, the Michigan Open Meetings Act, and any other applicable law. Rutland Charter Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services at the meeting/hearing to individuals with disabilities, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audiotapes of printed materials being considered, upon reasonable notice to the Township. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Township Clerk as designated below. Robin Hawthorne, Clerk Rutland Charter Township 2461 Heath Road Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 948-2194 77568184 �Page 10 — Thursday, June 7, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Chester M. Maka and Dianne L. Maka, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 12, 2004, and recorded on April 26, 2004 in instrument 1126429, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Five Thousand Four Hundred Seventy-One and 14/100 Dollars ($125,471.14). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 21, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A Parcel of land in the Northwest 1/4 of Section 21, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, being more particularly described as commencing at the Northeast corner of said Section 21; thence North 89 degrees 48 minutes 22 seconds West along the North line of said Section 2644.25 feet to the North 1/4 post of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 13 minutes 15 seconds West along the North and South 1/4 line of said Section 1697.82 feet to the centerline of Highway M-43; thence 254.06 feet along said centerline and the arc of a curve to the right, Whose radius is 998.20 feet and whose chord bears South 57 degrees 03 minutes 30 seconds West 253.37 feet to the true place of beginning; thence continuing 50.99 feet along the centerline, and the arc of a curve to the right whose radius is 998.20 feet and whose chord bears South 65 degrees 48 minutes 49 seconds West 50.97 feet; thence South 67 degrees 16 minutes 36 seconds West along said centerline 134.05 feet; thence South 68 degrees 59 minutes 42 seconds West along said centerline 120.09 feet; thence South 00 degrees 22 minutes 51 seconds West 307.25 feet; thence North 89 degrees 45 minutes 19 seconds East 282.68 feet; thence North 00 degrees 13 minutes 15 seconds East 421.75 feet to place of beginning. Subject to an easement for ingress and egress and public utilities for the benefit of Parcel D over a parcel of land described as: commencing at the Northeast corner of said Section 21; thence North 89 degrees 48 minutes 22 seconds West along the North line of said Section 2644.25 feet to the North 1/4 post of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 13 minutes 15 seconds West along the North and South 1/4 line of said Section 1697.82 feet to the centerline of Highway M-43; thence 305.04 feet along said centerline and the arc of a curve to the right, whose radius is 998.20 feet and whose chord bears South 58 degrees 31 minutes 20 seconds West 303.85 feet; thence South 67 degrees 16 minutes 36 seconds West along said centerline 134.05 feet; thence South 68 degrees 59 minutes 42 seconds west along said centerline 33.90 feet to the East line of existing 66 foot wide easement for ingress and egress; thence South 00 degrees 22 minutes 45 seconds West along said East line 228.79 feet to the place of beginning; thence North 79 degrees 52 minutes 15 seconds East 228.84 feet; thence South 00 degrees 13 minutes 15 seconds West 67.09 feet; thence South 79 degrees 52 minutes 15 seconds West 229.03 feet to said East line; thence North 00 degrees 22 minutes 45 seconds East 67.13 feet to the place of beginning. Also together with and subject to an existing easement for ingress, egress and public utilities as described below.Also together with and subject to the rights of the public over the Northerly 33 feet thereof as used for Highway M-43. Description of centerline of existing 66 foot wide easement for ingress, egress and public utilities: Commencing at the Northeast corner of said Section 21, Town 2 North, Range 9 West; thence North 89 degrees 48 minutes 22 seconds West along the North line of said Section, 2644.25 feet to the North 1/4 post of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 13 minutes 15 seconds West along the North and South 1/4 line of said Section, 1697.82 feet to the centerline of Highway M-43; thence 305.04 feet along said centerline and the arc of a curve to the right, whose radius is 998.20 feet and whose chord bears South 58 degrees 31 minutes 20 seconds West 303.85 feet; thence South 67 degrees 16 minutes 36 seconds West, along centerline, 134.05 feet; thence South 68 degrees 59 minutes 42 seconds West along said centerline 69.34 feet to the true place of beginning; thence South 00 degrees 22 minutes 45 seconds West, 325.24 feet; thence South 19 degrees 38 minutes 38 seconds East 200.55 feet; thence South 05 degrees 33 minutes 41 seconds East, 221.02 feet; thence South 42 degrees 59 minutes 58 seconds West, 210.09 feet; thence South 47 degrees 57 minutes 58 seconds West 155.36 feet; thence South 68 degrees 57 minutes 42 seconds West 159.53 feet; thence North 76 degrees 01 minutes 17 seconds West 132.05 feet; thence South 84 degrees 07 minutes 17 seconds West 213.20 feet to the place of ending of said easement. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 24, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #395012F01 77568061 (05-24)(06-14) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Daryl L Brodbeck, an unmarried man to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc as nominee for Polaris Home Funding Corp its successors and assigns , Mortgagee, dated June 12, 2008 and recorded June 30, 2008 in Instrument # 20080630-0006729 and corrected by Affidavit recorded November 30, 2009 in Instrument # 200911300011519 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: CitiMortgage, Inc, by assignment dated November 12, 2009 and recorded November 18, 2009 in Instrument # 200911180011265 and corrected by Affidavit recorded December 7, 2009 in Instrument # 200912070011776 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-Two Thousand Seven Hundred Seventy-Two Dollars and Twenty-Nine Cents ($162,772.29) including interest 5.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on July 5, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Southeast corner of section 1, Town 4 North, Range 8 West, Carlton Township, Barry County, Michigan, thence North along the East line of said section 2105 Feet to the place of beginning; thence West 725 Feet; thence North 430 Feet; thence East 725 Feet to the East line of said section; thence South along said east line 430 Feet to the place of beginning Commonly known as 7451 Cunningham Road, Lake Odessa MI 48849 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 6/07/2012 CitiMortgage, Inc, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-61931 (06-07)(06-28) 77568579 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by DONALD NEVINS and CASSANDRA A. NEVINS, husband and wife, and ELIZABETH M. NEVINS, a single woman (collectively, "Mortgagor"), to SAND RIDGE BANK, an Indiana corporation, of PO Box 598, Schereville, Indiana 46375, dated June 3, 2004, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on June 20, 2004, as instrument number 1130137 (the “Mortgage”). First Financial Bank, N.A., a national association, of 300 High Street, PO Box 476, Hamilton, Ohio 45011-0476, was the successor by consolidation to Sand Ridge Bank, and subsequently assigned the Mortgage to CHEMICAL BANK, a Michigan banking corporation, having an office at 333 E. Main Street, Midland, Michigan 48640-6511 (the "Mortgagee"), by assignment dated February 28, 2012, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on March 2, 2012, as Instrument No. 201203020002168 (the "Mortgage"). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgagee is the owner of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Sixty Three Thousand Seven Hundred Fifty One and 96/100 Dollars ($63,751.96). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 14th day of June, 2012, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: Lot 669 of the City, formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof. Together with all the improvements erected on the real estate, and all easements, appurtenances, and fixtures a part of the property, and all replacements and additions. Commonly known as: 512 W. State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 P.P. #08-55-001-206-00 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys the premises at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee for damaging the premises during the redemption period. Dated: May 17, 2012 CHEMICAL BANK Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center, 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2487 (616) 752-2000 77567838 8206150-1 SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by RANDY J. SILSBEE, A SINGLE MAN, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated November 22, 2006, and recorded on January 3, 2007, in Document No. 1174584, and assigned by said mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Five Thousand Three Hundred Seventy-Nine Dollars and Twelve Cents ($105,379.12), including interest at 7.000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on June 21, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: PART OF THE NORTHEAST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 7, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST, DESCRIBED AS: COMMENCING AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF SAID SECTION 7; THENCE SOUTH 88 DEGREES 34 MINUTES 16 SECONDS WEST 497.86 FEET ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SAID SECTION 7 TO THE POINT OF THE BGINNING; THENCE SOUTH 88 DEGREES 34 MINUTES 16 SECONDS WEST 248.83 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 2 DEGREES 38 MINUTES 38 SECONDS EAST 262.69 FEET PARALLEL WITH THE EAST LINE OF SAID SECTION 7; THENCE NORTH 88 DEGREES 34 MINUTES 16 SECONDS EAST 248.83 FEET; THENCE NORTH 2 DEGREES 38 MINUTES 38 SECONDS WEST 262.60 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 JPMC.000277 (05-24)(06-14) NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE OF MORTGAGE CHARLES J. HIEMSTRA IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE IN THE MILITARY, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER LISTED BELOW. Default has occurred in the conditions of a Mortgage (“Mortgage”) made by Rick A. VanDeWeg and Tracy VanDeWeg, husband and wife, of 5205 Hammond Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058-8936, Mortgagor, to Lake Michigan Credit Union, a state chartered credit union, having its principal office at 4027 Lake Drive SE, Suite 110, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49546, which Mortgage was dated July 30, 2008, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on August 5, 2008 at Instrument Number 20080805-0007965. By reason of this default, the Mortgagee hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of said Mortgage due and payable immediately. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on this Mortgage the sum of One Hundred Nine Thousand One Hundred Seventy-one and 68/100 Dollars ($109.171.68). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by this Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the Power of Sale contained in this Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, this Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part thereof, at public auction to the highest bidder at the East Steps of the Barry County Courthouse, 220 W. State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 that being the place of holding Circuit Court in said County, on Thursday, the 28th day of June, 2012, at 1:00 p.m. The premises covered by this Mortgage are located in the Township of Hope, County of Barry, State of Michigan and described as follows: Lots 3 and 4 of Casa-Del-Mar of Acker’s Point according to the plat thereof recorded in Liber 3 of Plats, Page 64 of Barry County Records. PP# 08-07-070-003-00 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale unless determined to be abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period will be as provided by MCLA 600.3241a. If this property is sold at a foreclosure sale by advertisement, during the period of redemption, borrower/mortgagor will be responsible to the purchaser under this Deed or to the mortgage holder for physical injury to the property beyond wear and tear resulting from the normal use of the property if the physical injury is caused by or at the direction of the borrower/mortgagor. Dated: May 23, 2012 LAKE MICHIGAN CREDIT UNION MORTGAGEE THIS INSTRUMENT PREPARED BY: Charles J. Hiemstra (P-24332) Attorney for Mortgagee 125 Ottawa Ave., NW, Suite 310 Grand Rapids, MI 49503 (616) 235-3100 77568132 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Denise T. Wolthuis, an unmarried woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 3, 2003, and recorded on July 28, 2003 in instrument 1109473, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Nineteen Thousand Two Hundred Sixteen and 94/100 Dollars ($119,216.94). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 14, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner, Northwest 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 20, Town 1 North, Range 10 West, Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan; thence East 23 rods to the point of beginning; thence East 516 feet; thence South 693 feet; thence West 516 feet; thence North to the point of beginning The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 17, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #403177F01 77567875 (05-17)(06-07) SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by ALAN E. ORSESKE, A MARRIED MAN and MELISSA S. ORSESKE, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated August 28, 2003, and recorded on October 10, 2003, in Document No. 1115342, and assigned by said mortgagee to GMAC MORTGAGE, LLC SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO GMAC MORTGAGE CORPORATION, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Five Thousand Eight Hundred Seventy-Seven Dollars and Thirty-Five Cents ($65,877.35), including interest at 6.500% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on June 14, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: THAT PART OF THE SOUTHWEST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 5, TOWN 1 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, DESCRIBED AS: A PARCEL OF LAND IN THE SOUTHWEST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 5, TOWN 1 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, DESCRIBED AS: COMMENCING AT A POINT 46.5 RODS EAST OF THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF THE SOUTHWEST 1 / 4 OF SAID SECTION 5, FOR THE PLACE OF BEGINNING, THENCE SOUTH 10 RODS, THENCE EAST 4 RODS, THENCE NORTH 10 RODS, THENCE WEST 4 RODS ALONG THE MIDDLE OF HIGHWAY TO PLACE OF BEGINNING. ALSO COMMENCING AT A POINT 46,5 RODS EAST AND 10 RODS SOUTH OF NORTHWEST CORNER OF THE SOUTHWEST 1 /4 OF SECTION 5 FOR THE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE SOUTH 20 RODS, THENCE EAST 4 RODS, THENCE NORTH 20 RODS, THENCE WEST 4 RODS TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. GMAC MORTGAGE, LLC SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO GMAC MORTGAGE CORPORATION Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 GMAC.012199 (0577567926 17)(06-07) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Stan L. Monks, a Single Man to Option One Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated August 15, 2005 and recorded August 22, 2005 in Instrument # 1151436 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Soundview Home Loan Trust 2005OPT3, Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2005OPT3, by assignment dated May 2, 2012 and recorded May 10, 2012 in Instrument Number 201205100005418 , on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Thousand Six Hundred Thirty-Five Dollars and Twenty-Nine Cents ($200,635.29) including interest 6.99% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on June 21, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North one-half of the North one-half of the Southeast one-quarter of Section 8, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, except the South 220 feet of the East 750 feet of the North one-half of the North one-half of the Southeast onequarter of Section 8, Town 4 North, Range 9 West. Except; beginning at a point on the East and West one-quarter line of Section 8, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, distant North 89 degrees 29 minutes 20 seconds West, 1353.00 feet from the East onequarter corner of said Section 8; thence South 05 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West, 660.00 feet to the South line of the North one-half of the North one-half of the Northeast one-quarter of said Section 8; thence North 89 degrees 27 minutes West, 1228.6 feet along said South line to the North and South one-quarter line of Section 8; thence North 00 degrees 29 minutes 40 seconds East, 657.2 feet along said North and South line to the center one-quarter corner of said Section 8; thence South 89 degrees 29 minutes 20 seconds East, 1280.4 feet along said East and West one-quarter line to the point of beginning. Commonly known as 6225 N Solomon Rd, Middleville MI 49333 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 5/24/2012 Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Soundview Home Loan Trust 2005-OPT3, AssetBacked Certificates, Series 2005-OPT3, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-61560 (0577568125 24)(06-14) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Jeffrey Lynn Smith, a single man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated August 4, 2011 and recorded August 10, 2011 in Instrument Number 201108100007599, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Wells Fargo Bank, NA by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fourteen Thousand Nine Hundred ThirtyFour and 84/100 Dollars ($114,934.84) including interest at 4.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 07/05/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Maple Grove, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 39 and 40, Fuller Heights, according to the Plat thereof recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 49, Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: June 7, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 326.8902 77568584 (06-07)(06-28) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 7, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Michael J. Speck, a single man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 23, 2006, and recorded on January 25, 2006 in instrument 1159334, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Wells Fargo Bank, NA as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Seven Thousand Seven Hundred Twenty-Four and 32/100 Dollars ($97,724.32). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 14, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at a point 18 rods 7 1/2 feet East from the Southwest corner of Section 18, Town 2 North, Range 10 West; thence North 20 rods; thence East 16 rods; thence South 20 rods; thence West 16 rods to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 17, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #347952F02 77567832 (05-17)(06-07) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Dennis Jay Steffes aka Dennis J Steffes and Tina Marie Steffes aka Tina M Steffes, husband and wife, as tenants by the entireties, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated November 22, 2004, and recorded on December 2, 2004 in instrument 1138030, and assigned by mesne assignments to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Forty-Eight Thousand Three Hundred Eight and 56/100 Dollars ($248,308.56). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 21, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Beginning at the Northwesterly corner of Lot 1 of Algonquin North Shore Subdivision, according to the recorded plat thereof in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 50, in Section 2, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, and Running thence North 51 degrees 04 minutes East 41.18 feet along Northwesterly line of said Lot; thence South 55 degrees 01 minutes 24 seconds East 57.0 feet along the Northeasterly side of said Lot; thence South 01 degrees 06 minutes 14 seconds West 155.34 feet along the East line of said Lot; thence North 89 degrees 22 minutes West 40.0 feet along the Plat Meander Line; thence North 22 degrees 45 minutes 04 seconds West 91.51 feet to a point on the West line of said Lot 1, distant South 00 degrees 16 minutes East 77.28 feet from the Northwesterly corner thereof; thence North 56 degrees 43 minutes 34 seconds West 85.40 feet to the center of Iroquois Trail (platted North Shore Drive); thence North 51 degrees 04 minutes East 65.0 feet along the center of said Street; thence South 00 degrees 16 minutes East 32.02 feet to the place of beginning. Extending the Easterly and Westerly sidelines to the Water's Edge of Algonquin Lake. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 24, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #337812F03 77568073 (05-24)(06-14) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Erin Merritt, a single woman and John F. Merritt, a married man and Jane Merritt, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 18, 2008, and recorded on April 24, 2008 in instrument 20080424-0004444, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Chase Home Finance LLC as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thousand Five Hundred Twenty-Three and 17/100 Dollars ($100,523.17). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 21, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North 1/2 of Lot 997 and the East 1/2 of the North 1/2 of Lot 998 of City Formerly Village of Hastings, according to the Plat thereof recorded in Liber A of Plats, Page 1 of Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 24, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #340480F02 (05-24)(06-14) 77568078 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Robert F. Lancaster and Lisa Lancaster, husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Polaris Home Funding Corp. its successors or assigns., Mortgagee, dated April 28, 2008 and recorded May 1, 2008 in Instrument Number 20080501-0004710, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fourteen Thousand Six Hundred Eighty-Five and 94/100 Dollars ($114,685.94) including interest at 6% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 07/05/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the center of Section 31, Town 1 North, Range 10 West, Prairieville Township, Barry County, Michigan, thence South 89 degrees 56 minutes 00 seconds East, 498.56 feet along the East and West quarter line of said Section 31, thence South 00 degrees 33 minutes 00 seconds East, 774.00 feet parallel with the North and South quarter line of said section to the point of beginning; thence South 89 degrees 56 minutes 00 seconds East, 175.00 feet parallel with said East and West quarter line; thence South 03 degrees 11 minutes 48 seconds East, 413.44 feet tot he Northerly line of Highway M-89; thence Northwesterly along said Northerly line, 205.41 feet along the arc of a curve to the left having a radius of 1959.86 feet and a chord bearing of North 71 degrees 30 minutes 21 seconds West, 205.32 feet; thence North 00 degrees 33 minutes 00 seconds West 347.89 feet parallel with said North and South quarter line to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: June 7, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 2485022633 File No. 682.2314 (06-07)(06-28) 77568532 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on October 26, 2007, by Scott C. Mueller, a single man, as Mortgagor, given by him to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on October 26, 2007, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 20071026-0003530, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank on June 3, 2011, recorded on June 13, 2011, in Instrument Number 201106130005798, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of One Hundred Five Thousand One Hundred Thirty and 66/100 Dollars ($105,130.66); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, July 5, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF BALTIMORE, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: That part of the Southeast quarter of Section 4, Town 2 North, Range 8 West, lying South of the highway running East and West through said quarter Section, except therefrom: Commencing at the Southeast corner of said Section 4; thence North on Section line 9.25 Chains to the center of said highway; thence North 85 Degrees West along the center of said highway 10.37 Chains; thence South 10.10 Chains to the South Section line; thence East on said Section Line 10.34 Chains to place of beginning. Also excepting therefrom: Commencing at the South quarter Post of Section 4, Town 2 North, Range 8 West, thence North along the North-South quarter line to the center of Mixer Road; thence East 620 Feet; thence South parallel with the North-South quarter line to the South Section line of said Section 4; thence West 620 Feet to place of beginning. Commonly known as: 1634 Mixer Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058 Parcel Number: 08-02-004-452-00 The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: May 29, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933 (517) 371-8253 (05-31)(06-21) 77568304 FORECLOSURE NOTICE RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES, P.C. MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. Mortgage Sale - Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by Vicky Root, and Douglas C Root, wife and husband to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. acting solely as a nominee for Quicken Loans Inc., Mortgagee, dated November 17, 2006, and recorded on December 5, 2006, as Document Number: 1173504, Barry County Records, said mortgage was assigned to Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee of the Home Equity Mortgage Loan Asset-Backed Trust Series INABS 2007-B, Home Equity Mortgage Loan AssetBacked Certificates, Series INABS 2007-B under the Pooling and Servicing agreement dated June 1, 2007 by an Assignment of Mortgage dated April 19, 2012 and recorded April 26, 2012 by Document Number: 201204260004904, , on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Three Thousand One Hundred Ninety-Four and 20/100 ($93,194.20) including interest at the rate of 6.62500% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the Circuit Court in said Barry County, where the premises to be sold or some part of them are situated, at 01:00 PM on June 21, 2012 Said premises are situated in the Township of CASTLETON, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 31, TOWN 3 NORTH, RANGE 7 WEST Commonly known as: 3494 S MORGAN RD If the property is eventually sold at foreclosure sale, the redemption period will be 6.00 months from the date of sale unless the property is abandoned or used for agricultural purposes. If the property is determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 and/or 600.3241a, the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of sale, or 15 days after statutory notice, whichever is later. If the property is presumed to be used for agricultural purposes prior to the date of the foreclosure sale pursuant to MCL 600.3240, the redemption period is 1 year. Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages are, if any, limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: May 24, 2012 Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee of the Home Equity Mortgage Loan Asset-Backed Trust Series INABS 2007-B, Home Equity Mortgage Loan AssetBacked Certificates, Series INABS 2007-B under the Pooling and Servicing agreement dated June 1, 2007 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302, (248) 335-9200 Case 77568115 No. 12MI01177-1 (05-24)(06-14) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE MORTGAGE SALE-Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a mortgage made by DONALD F. HERRICK and ANNE K. HERRICK, husband and wife, of 5885 LAMMERS RD., HASTINGS, MI 49058, Mortgagor(s) to MORTGAGE CENTER, LC, of 29621 NORTHWESTERN HIGHWAY, SOUTHFIELD, MI 48034, Mortgagee, dated AUGUST 22, 2003, and recorded on SEPTEMBER 3, 2003, in INSTRUMENT NO. 1112348 in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, and State of Michigan on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, for principal and interest, the sum of EIGHTY-NINE THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED SEVENTY-NINE AND 10/100THS ($89,579.10) DOLLARS with interest at 6.125% percent per annum, and attorney fees as provided for in said Mortgage and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said Mortgage or any part hereof, NOW, THEREFORE, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to the statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on JULY 5, 2012, at 1:00 P.M., local time, said Mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, inside the Barry County Circuit Court Building in the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan (that being the building where the Circuit Court for Barry County is held), of the premises described in said Mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due, as aforesaid, on said Mortgage, with interest thereon and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sum or sums which may be paid by the undersigned, necessary to protect its interest in the premises. Which said premises are described as follows: All the certain pieces or parcels of land situate in the TOWNSHIP OF HOPE, COUNTY OF BARRY, AND STATE OF MICHIGAN, to wit: BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE WEST LINE OF SECTION 11, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, DISTANT NORTH 390 FEET FROM THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF SECTION 11; THENCE NORTH 307 FEET, MORE OR LESS ALONG THE WEST LINE OF SECTION 11 TO A POINT 381 FEET SOUTH OF THE NORTH LINE OF THE SOUTH 49 ACRES OF THE WEST 3 / 4 OF THE SOUTHWEST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 11; THENCE EAST 360 FEET PARALLEL WITH SAID NORTH LINE: THENCE SOUTH 307 FEET MORE OR LESS TO A POINT 390 FEET NORTH OF THE SOUTH LINE OF SAID SECTION: THENCE WEST 360 FEET TO THE WEST SECTION LINE AND THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. SAID REAL ESTATE IS IMPROVED WITH, AMONG OTHER IMPROVEMENTS, A MANUFACTURED HOME UNIT*. BORROWERS ACKNOWLEDGE THAT THIS UNIT IS A PART OF THE REAL PROPERTY HEREBY SECURED BY THIS MORTGAGE. *1994 CENTURY MOBILE HOME, SERIAL NO. MY9534929ABF. MORE COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 5885 LAMMERS ROAD, HASTINGS, MI 49058 During the SIX (6) months immediately following the sale, the property may be redeemed, except that in the event that the property is determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241 a, the property may be redeemed during the thirty (30) days immediately following the sale. _____________________________ KENNETH C. BUTLER II (P 28477) ATTORNEY FOR MORTGAGEE 24525 HARPER AVENUE ST. CLAIR SHORES, MI 48080 (586) 777-0770 77568282 Dated: 05-31-12 (05-31)(06-28) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by DOUGLAS R. BAKER and MELISSA M. BAKER, husband and wife (collectively, "Mortgagor"), to GREENSTONE FARM CREDIT SERVICES, FLCA, a federally chartered corporation, having an office at 3515 West Road, East Lansing, Michigan 48823 (the "Mortgagee"), dated September 20, 2007, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on September 24, 2007, as Instrument No. 20070924-0002334, as amended by an agreement for extension or reamortization dated October 1, 2009, recorded November 6, 2009 as Instrument No. 200911060010869, Barry County Records (the "Mortgage"). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgagee is the owner of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Eighty-Seven Thousand Eighty-One and 09/100 Dollars ($87,081.09). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public venue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 14th day of June, 2012, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the Townships of Orangeville and Hope, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: Parcel 1: Southeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4, Section 13, Town 2 North, Range 10 West, except Commencing at the Southeast corner thereof; thence West along East/West 1/4 line 271 feet for point of beginning; thence North parallel with the East line of Section 13, 450 feet thence West parallel with East/West 1/4 line 300 feet; thence South parallel with East Section line 450 feet; thence East 300 feet to point of beginning. Also except commencing at East 1/4 post of Section 13, Town 2 North, Range 10 West; thence North 89 degrees 32 minutes 43 seconds West on East and West 1/4 line 1328.08 feet; thence North 0 degrees 38 minutes 43 seconds East on North and South 1/8 line 475.00 feet to point of beginning of this exception; thence continuing North 0 degrees 32 minutes 43 seconds East 285 feet; thence South 89 degrees 17 minutes 17 seconds East 300 feet; thence South 0 degrees 32 minutes 43 seconds East 285 feet; thence North 89 degrees 27 minutes 17 seconds West 300 feet to point of beginning; also excepting Orangeville Township commencing at East 1/4 corner of Section 13, Town 2 North, Range 10 West; thence North 89 degrees 08 minutes 21 seconds West 571 feet; thence Northerly parallel with East line of said Section 450 feet to point of beginning; thence Southerly parallel with East line of said Section 450 feet to East/West 1/4 line; thence North 89 degrees 08 minutes 21 seconds West 757.08 feet; thence North 00 degrees 32 minutes 43 seconds East 475.00 feet; thence South 89 degrees 27 minutes 17 seconds East 756 feet more or less to a point thence lies Northerly parallel with East line of said Section from point of beginning; thence Southerly parallel with said East line said Section 29 feet more or less to point of beginning. Except commencing at the Southeast corner of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 13, Town 2 North, Range 10 West, Orangeville Township, Barry IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Laura C. Miller, a single woman, to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., Mortgagee, dated April 13, 2007 and recorded April 25, 2007 in Instrument Number 1179727, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, successor by merger to Chase Home Finance LLC by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-One Thousand Seven Hundred Twenty-Eight and 81/100 Dollars ($131,728.81) including interest at 6.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on JUNE 14, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 66 of Middleville Downs Number 3, Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 26. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: May 17, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 310.8582 77567898 (05-17)(06-07) County, Michigan; thence North 89 degrees 08 minutes 21 seconds West, on the East and West 1/4 line, 571.00 feet; thence North 0 degrees 24 minutes 49 seconds East, parallel with the East Section line, 475.00 feet to the point of beginning of the Parcel of land herein described; thence North 89 degrees 27 minutes 17 seconds West, 455.92 feet; thence North 0 degrees 32 minutes 43 seconds East, parallel with the North and South 1/8 line of said Northeast 1/4, 285.00 feet; thence North 89 degrees 27 minutes 17 seconds West, 300.00 feet to said 1/8 line; thence North 0 degrees 32 minutes 43 seconds East, on said 1/8 line, 100.19 feet; thence South 89 degrees 07 minutes 25 seconds East, 755.02 feet; thence South 0 degrees 24 minutes 49 seconds West, parallel with the East Section line, 410.00 feet to the point of beginning. Also Except commencing at the Southeast corner of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 13, Town 2 North, Range 10 West; thence North 89 degrees 08 minutes 21 seconds West, on the East and West 1/4 line, 271.00 feet; thence North 0 degrees 24 minutes 49 seconds East, parallel with the East Section line, 450.00 feet to the point of beginning of the parcel of land herein described; thence North 89 degrees 08 minutes 21 seconds West, parallel with the East and West 1/4 line, 300.00 feet; thence North 0 degrees 24 minutes 49 seconds East, parallel with the East Section line, 410.00 feet; thence South 89 degrees 08 minutes 21 seconds East, parallel with the East and West 1/4 line, 300.00 feet; thence South 0 degrees 24 minutes 49 seconds West, parallel with the East Section line, 410.00 feet to the point of beginning. Parcel 2: Parcel in Section 18, Hope Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner Section 18, Town 2 North, Range 9 West; thence North 88 degrees 51 minutes 14 seconds East 440 feet along the North line; thence South 1 degrees 8 minutes 46 seconds East 1833.47 feet; thence South 88 degrees 51 minutes 14 seconds West 427.09 feet to the West line of Section 18; thence North 1 degrees 32 minutes 58 seconds West 1833.52 feet along West line to point of beginning. Together with all fixtures, tenements, hereditaments, and appurtenances belonging or in any way appertaining to the premises. Commonly known as: vacant land on Keller Road, Delton, Michigan 49046 P.P. #08-11-013-011-00 (Parcel 1) and 08-07-018-218-05, 08-07-018-218-10 and 08-07-018-218-20 (Parcel 2) Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys the premises at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee for damaging the premises during the redemption period. Dated: May 17, 2012 GREENSTONE FARM CREDIT SERVICES, FLCA Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2487 (616) 752-2000 8302855-1 77567819 �Page 12 — Thursday, June 7, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Danney Ellard, also known as Dan Ellard, a single man, original mortgagor(s), to Credit Union Mortgage Company, Mortgagee, dated July 25, 2002, and recorded on July 30, 2002 in instrument 1084628, and assigned by mesne assignments to MidFirst Bank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Three Thousand Five Hundred Seventy-Three and 25/100 Dollars ($73,573.25). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 5, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 2, 3, 4 and 5 of Reese Acres, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats, on Page 73 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 7, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #379423F02 77568360 (06-07)(06-28) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Daryl R. Hamel and Nancy C. Hamel, as joint tenants., to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns., Mortgagee, dated November 15, 2006 and recorded November 28, 2006 in Instrument Number 1173169, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by The Bank of New York Mellon FKA The Bank of New York, as Trustee for the certificateholders of the CWABS, Inc., Asset-backed Certificates, Series 2006-25 by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of SixtyThree Thousand Forty-One and 86/100 Dollars ($63,041.86) including interest at 8.2% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on JUNE 14, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Hasting, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land located in the Township of Hastings, Barry County, State of Michigan, and described as follows: The North 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 4, Town 3 North, Range 8 West. Except: Commencing at the Northeast corner of the North 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of said Section 4; thence West 798 feet; thence South 660 feet; thence East 798 feet; thence North 660 feet to the place of beginning. Also Except: Commencing at the intersection of State Highway M-43 and The County Highway, known as, Barber Road; thence North 424 feet; thence due East to the center of M-43; thence Southwesterly along said centerline to the place of beginning. Also Except: Commencing at the North 1/4 post of said section; thence East along the North section line 135 feet; thence South parallel with the North and South 1/4 line 231 feet; thence West 135 feet to the North and South 1/4 line; thence Northerly along said North and South 1/4 line 231 feet to the Place of Beginning. Also Except: Commencing at a point 798 feet West of the Northeast corner of the North 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of said Section 4; thence South 40 rods; thence West 450 feet, more of less, to Coats Grove Road; thence following said road to the Place of Beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: May 17, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 347.0322 77567908 (05-17)(06-07) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Shawn M. Ricketts and Bambi R. Ricketts, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, Inc., Mortgagee, dated October 23, 2002, and recorded on November 1, 2002 in instrument 1090769, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Six Thousand Five Hundred One and 74/100 Dollars ($96,501.74). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 21, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 18, Fairview Estates No. 1, according to the recorded plat thereof in Liber 6 of Plats on Page 6. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 24, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #387378F01 77568068 (05-24)(06-14) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by James P. Shields, single, original mortgagor(s), to Household Finance Corporation III, Mortgagee, dated August 16, 2006, and recorded on August 21, 2006 in instrument 1168918, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Three Thousand Two Hundred Forty-Two and 38/100 Dollars ($203,242.38). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 5, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 105 and 106 of the plat of Steven's Wooded Acres No. 2 according to the plat thereof recorded in Liber 4 of Plats, Page 60, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 7, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #326802F02 77568544 (06-07)(06-28) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Bonnie M. Sofia, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 3, 2002, and recorded on July 9, 2002 in instrument 1083477, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Six Thousand Eight Hundred Ten and 98/100 Dollars ($96,810.98). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 5, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 64 of Lakewood Estates, according to the recorded plat thereof as recorded in Liber 4 of plats on Page 19, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 7, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #150768F02 (06-07)(06-28 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Sallie K. Stambaugh and Greg L. Stambaugh, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated February 24, 2005, and recorded on March 4, 2005 in instrument 1142271, and assigned by said Mortgagee to DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY AS TRUSTEE FOR T HE HOLDERS OF IXIS REAL ESTATE CAPITAL TRUST 2005-HE3 MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES,SERIES 2005-HE3 as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Five Thousand Three Hundred Ten and 02/100 Dollars ($105,310.02). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 28, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel A: A parcel of land in the Northwest 1/4 of Section 36, town 3 North, Range 7 West described as: Commencing at a point 17 1/2 rods East of the Northwest corner of Section 36, running thence South 9 1/2 rods; thence East 9 1/2 rods to the West line of Main Street in the Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan; thence North along the West lien of said Main Street 9 1/2 rods to the Section line of the North side of said Section 36; thence West along said Section line 9 1/2 rods to the place of beginning, excepting a parcel 26 feet square out of the Southeast corner thereof, which said parcel was deeded to the Consumers Power Company. Parcel B: A parcel of land in the Northwest 1/4 of Section 36, Town 3 North, Range 7 West, Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner of said Section 36; thence East 17 1/2 rods; thence South 9 1/2 rods; thence West 17 1/2 rods; thence North 9 1/2 rods to the place of beginning The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 31, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #401425F01 77568270 (05-31)(06-21) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Lindsey Bogerd, a single woman and Eric Smith, a single man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Quicken Loans Inc., its successors or assigns., Mortgagee, dated July 20, 2007 and recorded July 26, 2007 in Instrument Number 20070726-000177, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Bank of America, N.A. Successor by Merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP FKA Countywide Home Loans Servicing LP by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Three Hundred Forty-Nine Thousand Sixty-One and 73/100 Dollars ($349,061.73) including interest at 6.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on JUNE 14, 2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land located in the Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, State of Michigan, and described as follows: Lot 65 of Sunrise Shores #2, According to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plat on Page 98 Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: May 17, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 708.0721 77567913 (05-17)(06-07) 77568537 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Todd L. Porter, single man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated October 21, 2009 and recorded November 10, 2009 in Instrument Number 200911100010962, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Chase Home Finance LLC by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Five Thousand Four Hundred Sixty-One and 67/100 Dollars ($75,461.67) including interest at 5.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on JUNE 14, 2012. Said premises are located in the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 128, City of Hastings, according to the recorded Plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: May 17, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 682.0573 77567903 (05-17)(06-07) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Steven Elenbaas and Lynda Elenbaas, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 20, 2009, and recorded on May 6, 2009 in instrument 20090506-0004870, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Freedom Mortgage Corporation as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-Three Thousand One Hundred Ninety-Three and 07/100 Dollars ($163,193.07). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 21, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North 1/2 of Lots 49 and 50 on Thornapple Riverside, Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 55. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 24, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #334970F02 77568085 (05-24)(06-14) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Trevor Brown, an unmarried man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Amerifirst Financial Corporation, its successors or assigns., Mortgagee, dated November 12, 2010 and recorded November 17, 2010 in Instrument Number 201011170010817, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Six Thousand Four Hundred Forty-Five and 87/100 Dollars ($66,445.87) including interest at 4.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 06/28/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The following premises County of Barry and State of Michigan: Lot 28 of West Beach, according to the Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, Page(s) 67, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: May 31, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 682.2896 77568311 (05-31)(06-21) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 7, 2012 — Page 13 USDA official promotes pilot home refinancing program My friend is a caregiver for someone with a medical marijuana card and grows the marijuana at his house. Someone he knows stole plants from him and was caught by the cops with the plants. Now the cops tell my friend he can’t have the plants back. I want to know why my friend can’t get the plants back. It’s legal for him to grow them. The reason for this lies in the fact that the Michigan Medical Marijuana Act is in direct conflict with the federal Controlled Substances Act. Though your friend may legally grow the plants and provide the product to a registered patient under MMMA, federal law prohibits possession or distribution of marijuana. If a police officer were to seize the plants or finished product, even if the officer is recovering it as property stolen in an investigation, the officer would be violating the CSA by returning it. A police officer cannot distribute, aid or abet the distribution or possession of marijuana. Attorney General Opinion No. 7262 states in part “it is ‘impossible’ for state law enforcement officers to comply with their state-law duty not to forfeit medical marijuana and their federal-law duty not to distribute or aid in the distribution of marijuana. ... As a result, law enforcement officers are not required to return marijuana to a patient or caregiver.” When I was a kid, my father would load all the kids in the back of his pickup to go to town. I think this is illegal now. Can you explain any law covering this? I have some of the same childhood memories. My parents would drive the dirt roads of northern Michigan near dusk to look for deer and other wildlife, then head to town for ice cream. My friends and I always got to ride in the back of the truck on those summer nights. It was fun, and fortunately we never had a crash. Even though I enjoyed this as a child, I would not choose to do this with my own children, having seen some sad outcomes involving kids in the back of pickup trucks. In 2001, an addition to the Michigan Vehicle Code prohibited persons under the age of 18 riding in the open bed of a pickup truck on a roadway at a speed greater than 15 miles per hour. There are a few exceptions to this section of law, two of which are most relevant to citizens of West Michigan. The first is that it is allowed in parades if permitted by the governmental unit with jurisdiction over that particular street. The second pertains to the employer or employee of a farm operation or construction business during the course of work activities. The full explanation can be found in section 257.683b of the Michigan Vehicle Code. A violation of this may result in a civil infraction being issued to the driver of the truck. Hastings man’s catfish record broken after nearly 70 years The Michigan Department of Natural Resources recently confirmed the catch of a new state record flathead catfish. Caught by Rodney Akey of Niles Tuesday, May 22, on the St. Joseph River in Berrien County at 8 p.m., the fish weighed 49.8 pounds and measured 45.7 inches. Akey was still-fishing from shore using an alewife as bait when he landed the record fish. The record was verified by Scott Hanshue, a DNR fisheries biologist, at the DNR’s Plainwell office. The previous state record flathead catfish was caught by Elmer Rayner of Hastings on the Maple River in Ionia County Aug. 6, 1943. That fish weighed in at 47.5 pounds and measured 44 inches. “I’ve been fishing catfish on the St. Joseph River for the last 20 years, but it never crossed my mind that I would catch a state record,” said Akey. “And beating a nearly 70year record — that’s a feat in itself.” State records are recognized by weight only. To qualify for a state record, fish must exceed the current listed state record weight, and identification must be verified by a DNR fisheries biologist. For more information about record-breaking fish caught in Michigan — including more than 150 Master Angler successes on Barry County lakes and rivers — visit www.michigan.gov/masterangler. LEGAL NOTICES SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by MARK D. HAMMOND, A SINGLE MAN, to UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, Mortgagee, dated May 30, 2008, and recorded on June 6, 2008, in Document No. 200806060005989, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Eight Thousand Two Hundred Fourteen Dollars and Thirty-One Cents ($128,214.31), including interest at 5.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on July 5, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: COMMENCING AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF SECTION 6, TOWN 1 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST; THENCE WEST ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SAID SECTION A DISTANCE OF 379.50 FEET; THENCE SOUTH AT RIGHT ANGLES TO SAID NORTH SECTION LINE, 178.20 FEET TO A POINT ON THE NORTHEASTERLY EXTENSION OF THE CENTERLINE OF PINE LAKE ROAD; THENCE SOUTH 60 DEGREES WEST ALONG SAID CENTERLINE, 1516.69 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 26 DEGREES 07 MINUTES 58 SECONDS EAST, 470.22 FEET FOR THE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE SOUTH 26 DEGREES 07 MINUTES 58 SECONDS EAST, 178.34 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 78 DEGREES 09 MINUTES 57 SECONDS WEST, 583.16 FEET TO THE CENTERLINE OF OAKRIDGE DRIVE THENCE NORTH 10 DEGREES 25 MINUTES 30 SECONDS WEST ALONG SAID CENTERLINE, 246.34 FEET; THENCE NORTH 61 DEGREES 42 MINUTES 15 SECONDS EAST, 170 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 83 DEGREES 42 MINUTES 41 SECONDS EAST, 161.94 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 59 DEGREES 20 MINUTES 03 SECONDS EAST, 91.73 FEET; THENCE NORTH 81 DEGREES 48 MINUTES 33 SECONDS EAST, 149 FEET TO POINT OF BEGINNING. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 77568589 USDA.000085 (06-07)(06-28) U.S. Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development Doug O’Brien May 31 encouraged rural Michigan residents with current USDA home loans to take advantage of a pilot refinancing program that could reduce their payments. O’Brien is conducting a series of meetings in Michigan this week. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced establishment of the pilot program earlier this year. “Since the creation of the USDA Guaranteed Home Loan program, USDA has helped more than 54,000 rural Michigan residents purchase houses,” O’Brien said. “This pilot refinancing initiative helps people keep their homes and avoid financial hardship. I encourage any USDA homeowner who is eligible to explore this simplified refinancing program.” USDA has launched a two-year pilot project in Michigan and 18 other states to enable homeowners with mortgages written or backed by USDA Rural Development to save money by refinancing their loans at today’s historically low interest rates. Existing Rural Development borrowers eligible for the pilot refinance program are not required to obtain new appraisals, property inspections or credit reports. The new interest rate for the refinance must be a fixed rate at least 1 percentage point below the current interest rate. The term cannot exceed 30 years. No cash-out is permitted to the borrower. Complete details concerning eligibility are available at any USDA Rural Development office. Homeowners who meet these criteria may refinance their Rural Development guaranteed loans regardless of the loan-to-value ratio for the property. This enables borrowers who owe more on their mortgages than their homes are worth to get lower interest rates and reduce their monthly mortgage payments. “The pilot program can help stabilize neighborhoods and prevent the disruption and loss caused by home foreclosures,” USDA Rural Development Michigan State Director James Turner said. “The goal is to help residents keep their homes and meet their obligations by giving them some financial breathing room.” Rural Development will evaluate the pilot after two years. Visit the website www.rurdev.usda.gov for additional information about the agency’s programs or to locate the nearest USDA Rural Development office. CITY OF HASTINGS REQUEST FOR BIDS Hydrofluosilicic Acid (HFS) The City of Hastings is soliciting bids for the provision of Hydrofluosilicic Acid (HFS) for use at the City’s Water Treatment Plant. Bid proposal forms and specifications are available at the address listed below. The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in the bid proposals, and to award the bid as deemed to be in the City’s best interest, price and other factors considered. Sealed bids will be received at the Office of the City Clerk/Treasurer, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 until 9:45 AM on Tuesday, June 19, 2012 at which time they shall be opened and publicly read aloud. All bids shall be clearly marked on the outside of the submittal package “Sealed Bid – Hydrofluosilicic Acid (HFS)”. Tim Girrbach Director of Public Services 77568559 CITY OF HASTINGS REQUEST FOR BIDS POLYMER SYNOPSIS RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP REGULAR BOARD MEETING MAY 9, 2012 -7:30 P.M. Regular meeting called to order and Pledge of Allegiance. Present: Greenfield, Bellmore, Hawthorne, Carr, Lee, Hanshaw, Flint Approved the Agenda as presented. Approved the Consent Agenda as presented. Approved purchase of a new copier w/service agreement. Approval was given to proceed with the Bowens Mill Road Bridge Project. Approved a request/permit from PPI for the dale of fireworks. Accepted the Mercy Ambulance contract. Meeting Adjourned at 8:32p.m. Respectfully submitted, Robin Hawthorne, Clerk Attested to by, Jim Carr, Supervisor 77568571 www.rutlandtownship.org The City of Hastings is soliciting bids for the provision of Polymer for use at the City’s Water Treatment Plant. Bid proposal forms and specifications are available at the address listed below. The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in the bid proposals, and to award the bid as deemed to be in the City’s best interest, price and other factors considered. Sealed bids will be received at the Office of the City Clerk/Treasurer, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 until 10:15 AM on Tuesday, June 19, 2012 at which time they shall be opened and publicly read aloud. All bids shall be clearly marked on the outside of the submittal package “Sealed Bid – Polymer”. Tim Girrbach Director of Public Services 77568563 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO.12-26115-DE Estate of Bernard L. Peck Jr. Date of Birth: July 5, 1929 TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Bernard L. Peck Jr., died April 19, 2012 . Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate and the Bernard L. Peck, Jr. Trust u/t/a dated March 1, 2004, will be forever barred unless presented to Timothy S. Peck and Joyce Marie Peck, named co-personal representatives or proposed co-personal representatives, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court Street, Ste. 302, Hastings, MI 49058 and the named/proposed co-personal representatives within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: June 4, 2012 Law Weathers Stephanie S. Fekkes P43549 150 W. Court Street Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 945-1921 Timothy S. Peck and Joyce Marie Peck 1435 S. Dibble Hastings, MI 49058 77568551 (269) 908-3403 City of Hastings REQUEST FOR BIDS Marriage Licenses Gabriel Michael Garcia, Henderson, NV and Brittany Nicole Barber, Caledonia. Clyde Peter Tigchelaar Jr., North Ft. Myers, FL and Geraldine Dorothy Weaver, Cape Coral, FL. Jonathan Robert Osborne, Delton and Alyssa Joy Tone, Battle Creek. Noah Oliver Adams, Hastings and Michelle Ann Kidd, Grand Rapids. Harold Zachery-Scott Bloomer, Wayland and Stephanie Mae Vandentoorn, Wayland. Shane Michael Lally, The Quay, Westport and Dayna Rae Allar, Somerville, MA. Gregg Jol Luedke, Hastings and Marcia Rae Smith, Hastings. CITY OF HASTINGS REQUEST FOR BIDS Chlorine The City of Hastings is soliciting bids for the provision of Chlorine for use at the City’s Water Treatment Plant. Bid proposal forms and specifications are available at the address listed below. The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in the bid proposals, and to award the bid as deemed to be in the City’s best interest, price and other factors considered. Sealed bids will be received at the Office of the City Clerk/Treasurer, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 until 9:30 AM on Tuesday, June 19, 2012 at which time they shall be opened and publicly read aloud. All bids shall be clearly marked on the outside of the submittal package “Sealed Bid – Chlorine”. Tim Girrbach Director of Public Services 77568565 CITY OF HASTINGS REQUEST FOR BIDS Poly/Ortho Blend Phosphate The City of Hastings is soliciting bids for the provision of Poly/Ortho Blend Phosphate for use at the City’s Water Treatment Plant. Bid proposal forms and specifications are available at the address listed below. The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in the bid proposals, and to award the bid as deemed to be in the City’s best interest, price and other factors considered. Sealed bids will be received at the Office of the City Clerk/Treasurer, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 until 9:15 AM on Tuesday, June 19, 2012 at which time they shall be opened and publicly read aloud. All bids shall be clearly marked on the outside of the submittal package “Sealed Bid – Poly/Ortho Blend Phosphate”. Tim Girrbach Director of Public Services 77568561 CITY OF HASTINGS REQUEST FOR BIDS Liquid Aluminum Sulfate Hydrate Solution The City of Hastings is soliciting bids for the provision of Liquid Aluminum Sulfate Hydrate Solution for use at the City’s Water Treatment Plant. Bid proposal forms and specifications are available at the address listed below. The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in the bid proposals, and to award the bid as deemed to be in the City’s best interest, price and other factors considered. Sealed bids will be received at the Office of the City Clerk/Treasurer, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 until 10:00 AM on Tuesday, June 19, 2012 at which time they shall be opened and publicly read aloud. All bids shall be clearly marked on the outside of the submittal package “Sealed Bid – Liquid Aluminum Sulfate Hydrate”. Tim Girrbach Director of Public Services 77568557 Sale of 1996 John Deere 855 Tractor and Attachments The City of Hastings will accept bids for the sale of one (1) 1996 John Deere 855 Tractor and Brush Hog & Sweeper Broom Attachments. This equipment will be sold AS IS. Arrangements to view the equipment can be made by calling 945-2468 weekdays between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM. The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in any bid, and to award the bid in a manner that the City deems to be in its best interest, price and other factors considered. Bids will be received at the office of the Hastings City Clerk/Treasurer, 201 East State Street, Hastings, MI 49058 until 9:00 AM on Tuesday, June 19, 2012 at which time they shall be opened and read aloud. The winning bid, if any, will be approved at the City Council meeting on June 25, 2012. Winning bidder must be prepared to take possession with certified funds between June 26 and June 29, 2012. No formal bidding forms or documents are required, but all bids must be in writing and sealed. All sealed bids must be clearly marked on the outside of the bid package as follows: “SEALED BID – 1996 John Deere 855 Tractor and Attachments”. Thomas E. Emery City Clerk/Treasurer 77568573 City of Hastings NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that the Hastings City Council will hold a public hearing on Monday, June 11, 2012 at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers, second floor of City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan. The purpose of the Public Hearing is for City Council to hear comments and make a determination on the establishment of a final assessment roll for the Downtown Parking Special Assessment District for 2012. The City will provide necessary reasonable aid and services to disabled persons wishing to attend these hearings upon seven days notice to the Clerk of the City of Hastings, 201 East Michigan Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. Telephone 269/945-2468 or TDD call relay services 800/649-3777. Thomas E. Emery City Clerk 77568549 �Page 14 — Thursday, June 7, 2012 — The Hastings Banner COURT NEWS Carmen Arlene Newland, 21, was sentenced May 30 for possession of marijuana second or subsequent offense. Newland, of Charlotte, was ordered to serve six months in jail, with credit for 69 days served. She must pay $948, serve 24 months on probation and pay $100 per month toward assessments. The balance of her jail time will be suspended upon successful completion of Gospel Mission program. She must complete her GED in jail. Newland’s driver’s license is suspended for one year, with restrictions after 60 days. A charge of operating with license suspended, revoked or denied, second or subsequent offense, was dropped. Joshua Gordon Vickery, 27, of Battle Creek was sentenced for failure to report as a sexual offender, second offense. Vickery was ordered May 31 to serve six months in jail, with credit for seven days served. He must pay $698 in assessments and serve 60 months on probation. The last four months of jail will be suspended upon successful completion of probation. Vickery also was ordered to pay $25 per month toward court assessments. Nicholas Lester Rogers, 21, of Shelbyville was sentenced May 31 for operating under the influence of liquor, third offense, and a probation violation. Rogers was ordered to serve 11 months in jail, with credit for 177 days served. He must pay $2,479 in court assessments. Charges of operating with the presence of controlled substances and operating with license suspended, revoked or denied were dropped. Bret Jay Ferro, 31, of Delton was sentenced May 31 for criminal sexual conduct, third degree — force. Ferro was ordered to serve 24 to 60 months in jail, with credit for 207 days served. He must pay $198 in court assessments. An additional charge of criminal sexual conduct, third degree — force or coercion — and habitual offender, third offense, were dropped. Holly Rene Capobianco, 31, of Hastings was sentenced May 31 for breaking and entering with intent. Capobianco was ordered to serve nine months in jail, with credit for one day served. She must pay $1,198 in assessments and serve 36 months on probation. Capobianco was ordered to complete drug court, obtain her GED and pay $40 per month toward assessments. The final eight months of her jail sentence will be suspended upon successful completion of drug court. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 For Sale Automotive Card of Thanks 100% WOOD HEAT- No worries. Keep your family safe & warm with a Classic Outdoor Wood Furnace from Central Boiler. Call SOS your “Stocking Dealer” Dutton, MI (616)554-8669 or (6+1+6)915-5606+51. 1994 DODGE INTREPID: 120,000mi. New rear brakes, new starter. $1,500 obo. Vehicle can be seen at Goldsworthys in Dowling. (269)838-3686 THANK YOU The family of Jane Woodmansee would like to thank everyone for their cards, prayers and thoughts. A special thank you to Ruth Nelson and the ladies of Confessions of Truth for feeding us. And thank you to Girrbach Funeral Home for their wonderful job. The family of Pastor Jane Woodmansee 20+ CARS UNDER $2,000 plus tax, title & plate fees. 20+ CARS UNDER $2,000 Go Go Auto Parts, Delton plus tax, title & plate fees. (269)623-2775. Go Go Auto Parts, Delton gogoautoparts.com (269)623-2775. FOR SALE: 4-COOPER Disgogoautoparts.com covers ATR 31x10.50R15 AFFORDABLE PROPANE with 50 miles. 1 Goodyear FOR your home/farm/busi- Wrangler RT/S 31x10.50R15 ness. No delivery fees. Call Brand new $450 for all 5. for a free quote. Diamond (269)948-3797 ask for Stan. Propane 269-367-9700 ELIMINATE YOUR HEAT- GO METAL IS buying unvehicles. Paying ING bills. Outdoor Wood wanted Furnace from Central Boiler. cash. Call for quote (269)830D2 Outdoor Wood Boilers, 4842. www.gometal.net 616-877-4081. Lawn & Garden AQUATIC PLANTS: OUR Lotus & Water Lilies are ready! Also Koi & Goldfish, pumps, filters & pond supplies. APOLS WATER GARDENS, 9340 Kalamazoo, Caledonia MI. (616)6981030 M-F 9:00-5:30, Sat 9:002:00. Garage Sale FIRST TIME IN 5 YEARS: Huge multi-family sale. Thursday & Friday 9am5pm, Saturday 9am-3pm June 7th, 8th & 9th, 3600 E. M-79, Hastings. Rain or shine. furniture, 18yr. old horse, horse tack & show clothes, bedding & many other household items. Clothing for all ages & sizes, Homecoming dresses, books, sport equipment & clothing for sports, childrens toys, camping trailer (needs TLC), 2 trombones, old computer games. Everything must go. FLEA MARKET & CRAFTS Lake Odessa Jackson Muchler Post Ladies Aux. VFW at 360 Tupper Lake Road. June 8th-9th, 9am-4pm. Tables for rent, $5/table per day. Call 616-374-4171. Kitchen will be opened for rolls and lunch. Kids clothes, household, books, etc. MOVING SALE: Thurs. thru Saturday 8am-4pm. 7057 Head Rd., Delton. Pontoon boat, duck boat, snowblower, furniture, childrens toys & clothes, home decor items & gardening items. National Ads THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is deceptive, fraudulent or might otherwise violate law or accepted standards of taste. However, this publication does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the quality of goods or services advertised. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made in any advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you ask for money in advance of delivery of goods or services advertised. Card of Thanks THANK YOU Thank you everyone for remembering our 35th anniversary. Richard and I want to say thank you to our family and friends who sent cards, letters, gifts and flowers. Thanks to Central United Methodist Church for the anniversary letter with 60+ names. We enjoyed it. Also thanks to some special friends who made donations to the “Gideon International” as a gift to us. That gift will provide Bibles around the world. Also thanks for my wonderful husband who took me to a special dinner. And for the many hugs I have received. God has been good to us. Richard & Virgie Winkler PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 Business Services BASEMENT WATERPROOFING: PROFESSIONAL BASEMENT SERVICES waterproofing, crack repair, mold remediation. Local/licensed. Free estimates. (517)290-5556. BOOKKEEPING SERVICES Personal * Self-Employed * Small Business Payroll * Billing Accounts Receivable * Accounts Payable General Ledger Weekly * Monthly * Quarterly * Annually Call today! (269)420-5714 Pets CHINESE CRESTED DOG: 269-804-1991 Help Wanted 25 DRIVER TRAINEES Needed NOW! Become a driver for Schneider National! Earn $750 per week! No experience needed! Local CDL Training! Job ready in 15 days! 1-877-649-2697. DRIVERS: Home Every Other Day! Dedicated Holland, MI to KC, MO. CDL-A, 1yr OTR. Avg. 3000 miles/week! MTS: 800-7480192 x208/x214. Recreation WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are interested in leasing acreage for this years deer season. Call (269)795-3049 Wanted BUYING OLD POCKET watches, old wind up wrist watches, working or not working. Call George (616)916-8271 BUYING WWII, WWI, Civil War uniforms, weapons, helmets, bayonets, German, Japanese, and American. Call George (616)916-8271 Estate Sale ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. YOU WANT QUALITY at affordable prices when you buy printing. Call J-Ad Graphics for everything from business cards and brochures to newspapers and catalogs. Phone (269)945-9554 or stop in at 1351 N. M-43 Hwy., Hastings. Boy hit by car in Prairieville Twp. The Barry County Sheriff’s Department was dispatched Monday, June 4, at 5:50 p.m. to South Norris Road near Pine Lake Road in Prairieville Township a pedestrian accident involving a child. A 5-year-old boy was struck by a northbound vehicle. The boy was transported to Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo with serious injuries. The driver of the vehicle was not injured. Alcohol is not a factor in the crash. The Barry County Sheriff’s Department was assisted by the Barry Township Police Department and Pine Lake Fire Department. The condition of the boy is not known; his name was not released. Weather conditions damage crops in 72 Michigan counties Federal disaster assistance sought Gov. Rick Snyder has requested federal disaster assistance from U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack for farmers in Michigan counties who are facing substantial crop losses due to extreme weather conditions. Among the 72 counties on the list are Barry, Allegan, Eaton, Ionia, Kent and Kalamazoo. Fruit crop losses were particularly impacted by high temperatures in March followed by freezing temperatures in April. Other weather conditions, including excessive snow, blizzards, high winds, hail, tornadoes, flooding, excessive rain and lightning that occurred between Jan. 1 and May 11 also have impacted farms and are part of the disaster declaration request. “Our farming community members are looking at large crop losses — currently estimated at $223.5 million. Michigan’s food and agriculture producers have a substantial impact on the economy, and it is important those farmers have access to additional resources, such as low-interest loans,” said Snyder. “We will be working closely with our state and federal partners to provide assistance to Michigan’s farmers, food processors and fresh market producers to help keep their businesses moving forward during this difficult time.” Seventy-two counties in both the Upper and Lower peninsulas have experienced severe weather devastating to the state’s fruit and asparagus crop production. MDARD is working with the USDA-Farm Service Agency to monitor the damage and its impact to growers and the fresh and processing food industries. FSA is expecting to compile and complete crop damage estimates by July 1. Original crop loss estimates must be verified from harvest yield data, and if losses of 30 percent or more are confirmed, the disaster request will be granted. The disaster request will give eligible state producers access to USDA-FSA’s low-interest emergency loan program for up to 100 percent of their weather-related agriculture production losses. For more information on the federal emergency farm loan programs, visit the USDAFSA website, www.fsa.usda.gov. Farmers market coupons available for qualifying seniors Residents aged 60 and over with moderate incomes have the opportunity to purchase locally grown fresh fruits and vegetables with coupons through a free program being offered by Market Fresh, a program former known as Senior Project Fresh. Coupon booklets worth $20 each are being offered to each senior citizen who qualifies for the program based on a monthly income of $1,678 or lower for one household member and $2,267 or less for two household members. Coupons can be used at any participating farmers market through Oct. 31. The Market Fresh outreach program is available for seniors to receive free nutrition education and coupon books on the following dates and locations: Friday, June 8: Woodland senior dining site, Woodland Eagles Club, 125 N. Main St., Woodland, 10 to 10:30 a.m. Friday, June 8: Nashville senior dining site, old Masonic Hall, 301 N. Main St., Nashville, 11 a.m. to noon. Monday, June 11: Lincoln Meadows Senior Housing, 500 Lincoln St., Middleville, 10 to 11:30 a.m. Monday, June 11: Commission on Aging, 320 W. Woodlawn Ave., Hastings, 2 to 3:30 p.m. Wednesday June 20: Hastings Fresh Food Initiative First United Methodist Church, 209 W. Green St., Hastings, 9 a.m. Applicants who cannot pick up their own food at the market may assign a proxy, but the proxy needs to be present to sign for the coupon book. Coupon books will be available on a firstcome, first-served basis, and quantities are limited. Call the Commission on Aging, 269-9484856, with any questions. POLICE BEAT Police find more than film in trailer Hastings Police officers stopped a van pulling a trailer without a license plate and with defective equipment. During the June 4 traffic stop, while one officer was speaking with the passengers of the vehicle, another officer saw the driver of the van attempt to conceal a film canister, which he took out of his pocket and attempted to hide in the decking of the trailer. When the driver of the van was asked about the contents of the film canister, he told the officer he should have said he had marijuana on his person, but failed to do so. The man was placed under arrest for possession of marijuana, second offense. Price of cylinders is enough for claim A man contacted the Barry County Sheriff’s Department May 29 to report the theft of four hydraulic cylinders from his sprayer. The anhydrous sprayer was being stored outside at a Jordan Road residence near Woodland. The man said he did not notice the cylinders were missing until about three weeks ago. He said he did not know when they were actually taken and was not planning to make an insurance claim. When he found the replacement cost was $2,300, he changed his mind and contacted deputies. No other property was damage during the theft. The case is inactive. Money in the mail is too good to be true A Hastings resident called May 29 to report that she had received a priority mail package in her mailbox that contained a $950 postal money order. She said she originally thought the money order was for an online survey in which she participated. The woman said she had contacted the Hastings Post Office and was told the money order was a fraud. The package was mailed from Greensboro, N.C. The Hastings Police Department would like to remind everybody not to divulge personal information to unknown parties over the Internet and if something seems “too good to be true,” it probably is a fraud, in which case the recipient should contact the local police. Church lady’s phone stolen; wiped out Deputies were contacted June 2 about a iPhone stolen from a Gun Lake church. The woman told deputies she had been working at the church and set her phone on a desk. After leaving the church and returning home, she realized she had forgotten her phone. She went back to the church later that night, but the phone was not on the desk and could be found using the remote locator. She also told deputies Sprint had emailed her to report that the phone had used the “wipe” option to clear all information. When she called the phone’s number, her voicemail greeting had also been changed to an automated greeting. The woman contacted Sprint to deactivate her service. The $600 phone was listed as stolen, and the case is inactive. Man takes up shrubbery diving Hastings officers were called May 30 to a home on East Green Street to speak with a woman who had returned home to find a person passed out on her front porch. The person in question was her 17-year-old son, who was very intoxicated and had fallen down the steps of the porch and into the shrubs next to her house. Officers made contact with the 17-year-old who by then was sleeping it off in his bedroom. After finally awakening the young man, officers noted several minor injuries, and administered a Breathalyzer test, which registered .22 percent. The teen was transported to Pennock Hospital for treatment and then arrested for being a minor in possession of alcohol. Erratic driver admits to heroin addiction Barry County Deputies made a traffic stop in Nashville May 19 on Sherman Street. Reportedly, the vehicle was traveling at a high rate of speed with a loud exhaust, and was weaving, before pulling into a driveway. While the deputy waited for the driver to provide identification, he reportedly smelled intoxicants. The 22year-old’s driver’s license was not valid, and the man had a bench warrant for failure to appear in court. The driver gave deputies permission to search his vehicle where they found a bag with eight hypodermic syringes and a spoon with white powdery residue. The driver admitted to being a heroin addict and was arrested for driving violations and the warrant. The evidence was seized and sent to the Michigan State Police Crime Lab for analysis. The report was turned over to the prosecutor’s office. Visit to jail leads to anger, ends at jail Deputies stopped a vehicle in on South Washington near West State Street in Hastings May 19. The deputy reportedly observed the driver yelling loudly and thrashing her arms around, resulting in the vehicle moving from side to side. The two females in the car appeared to be upset and had just come from the jail where they attempted to pick up someone who had just been released. The man had apparently left the jail on foot. Hastings Police also arrived on the scene. Because of the driver’s erratic behavior, the deputy asked her to perform sobriety tests. He also asked for permission to search the vehicle. The woman agreed, but grabbed her purse for a cigarette. The deputy asked to search the purse, and the woman turned away in an attempt to conceal it. The deputy grabbed the purse away from the woman. He asked her what was in the purse. She admitted there were glass pipes for smoking Spice. Two glass pipes were found in the purse, along with white powder in three vials. Michigan State Police arrived and conducted a field lab test on the powder, which proved to be “bath salts,” the generic term for products such a Spice. The rest of the evidence was seized and sent to the Michigan State Police Crime Lab for analysis. The woman was arrested for possession of illegal Schedule 1 drugs and drug paraphernalia. The report was given to the prosecutor’s office for review. Tiller turns up missing Deputies were dispatched May 23 to a home on East M-43 in Woodland in regard to a rototiller theft. Reportedly, the TroyBilt rototiller, valued at $700, was taken from the caller’s front yard. The owner told deputies that around 10 p.m. the night before, he noticed a red pickup truck parked on the shoulder of M-43, and when he turned his porch light on, the driver pulled the truck moved into the neighbor’s driveway and turned its headlights off. He said when he went outside, a man was walking along the road and then got into the truck and went east on M-43. Then, the owner said he noticed his rototiller was missing. A copy of the report was forwarded to the detective at the sheriff’s department. Survivalist runs out back door A woman spoke with deputies June 1 about verbal threats she was receiving from her 40-year-old son. She said her son was becoming more angry and aggressive and at one time told her he had killed someone. The mother told deputies her son considered himself a survivalist, or mountain man, and did not believe he would go back to jail without a fight. The son was currently on parole, reportedly for criminal sexual conduct, and four deputies responded to the Maple Lane address in Hastings. When deputies arrived, the man fled out the back door and would not stop for authorities. He was caught after a short pursuit. The case is under review by the prosecutor’s office. Ex takes phone harassment into his own hands A Hastings woman contacted sheriff deputies May 26 to report that her cell phone had been stolen and all the passwords of her social media accounts had been changed. She told deputies she suspected her ex-boyfriend. According to reports, deputies had recently received complaints from the 37-year-old exboyfriend about the woman harassing him through phone and text messages. Deputies advised both parties to have no contact with each other. The theft report of the Droid SmartPhone was forwarded to the prosecutor’s office for review. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 7, 2012 — Page 15 Expansion plans, insurance refund create interest at county board SPLASH PAD, continued from page 1 The spray plaza will include a combination public restroom facility and band shell like the one in this conceptual drawing. Woods noted that because the plaza and restrooms will be shut down at night and during the coldest months, there will be little maintenance and costs associated with it. Hart said the DDA has approved $4,000 budget for the 2012-13 fiscal year to cover water usage costs and nightly restroom and plaza cleaning. He said in a memo to council that water usage costs have been estimated at $500 per month and will not require additional water treatment or filters; it is an open system and not like a pool that recycles water. According to Hart, the DDA also has authorized paying Professional Design Services $15,000 to design and administrate the construction of the spray plaza and $30,000 for the construction. He added that a donor has come forward and is willing to contribute $250,000 to the development of the plaza. Hart said the estimated cost for completing the spray plaza as presented is $321,966, which means the project needs an additional $41,966. “Staff intends to meet with at least two other potential funding partners that have expressed interest in assisting at an undetermined level,” said Hart. “I am glad we have been able to do so much in Hastings because individuals have come forward to help make things happen,” said Woods. “I think the spray plaza is going to be a really good addition to downtown because it will offer something different and fun.” “It will give people another reason to come downtown,” said Hastings Mayor Bob May. “People can grab a coffee or some ice cream. It will be a great place to sit and reflect. It will be great for kids and great for adults.’ Many townships will have proposals on August ballot Last week’s proposal filing deadline produced ballot issues in 11 of Barry County’s 16 townships for the Aug. 7 primary election. Details on the proposals and on all candidates will be available in upcoming issues of the Banner prior to Election Day. An overview of the proposals filed by the May 29 deadline are as follows: Baltimore Township • Renewal of .30-mill for Dowling Public Library services Barry Township • Renewal of 2-mill fire millage. • Renewal of 2-mill police millage. Carlton Township • Renewal of 1.5-mill fire-protection millage. Castleton Township • Renewal of 1-mill emergency medical services millage. • Renewal of .5-mill fire department housing and equipment millage. • Renewal of .2-mill emergency medical services housing and equipment millage. • Renewal of .5 mill for Putnam District Library district library services (Castleton 1). Hope Township • Renewal of 1-mill road millage. • Renewal of 1-mill fire protection and cemetery millage. Irving Township • Renewal of 1.5-mill fire millage. Johnstown Township • Renewal of .30-mill for Dowling Public Library services. Maple Grove Township • Renewal of 1-mill fire and ambulance equipment millage. • Renewal of 1-mill dust control and road maintenance millage. • Renewal of 1-mill emergency medical service millage. • Renewal of .5 mill for Putnam District Library district library services (1a and 1b). Orangeville Township • Renewal of 1.5-mill road improvement millage. Prairieville Township • Increase of .9559-mill for fire protection. • Renewal of .8174-mill for police protection. • Renewal of .9087-mill for road construction, upgrading, and maintenance. Thornapple Township • Renewal of 1.5-mill emergency services millage. Woodland Township • Renewal of 2-mill for fire, cemetery, and township. SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN Projected trust fund exhaustion is expected three years sooner by Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist The Social Security Board of Trustees released its annual report on the financial health of the Social Security Trust Funds. The combined assets of the old-age and survivors insurance, and disability insurance trust funds will be exhausted in 2033, three years sooner than projected last year. The disability insurance trust fund will be exhausted in 2016, two years earlier than last year’s estimate. In the 2012 Annual Report to Congress, the trustees announced: • The projected point at which the combined trust funds will be exhausted comes in 2033 — three years sooner than projected last year. At that time, there will be sufficient non-interest income coming in to pay about 75 percent of scheduled benefits. • Over the 75-year period, the trust funds would require additional revenue equivalent to $8.6 trillion in present value dollars to pay all scheduled benefits. Other highlights of the trustees report include: • During 2011, an estimated 158 million people had earnings covered by Social Security and paid payroll taxes. • Social Security paid benefits of $725 billion in calendar year 2011. There were about 55 million beneficiaries at the end of the calendar year. • The cost of $6.4 billion to administer the program in 2011 was .9 percent of total expenditures. • The combined trust fund assets earned interest at an effective annual rate of 4.4 percent in 2011. The 2012 trustees report is posted at www.socialsecurity.gov/OACT/TR/2012/. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. by Doug VanderLaan Editor In a sometimes tedious test of patience dealing with financial figures and details, Barry County Commissioners also enjoyed updates at Tuesday’s committee of the whole meeting on new projects resulting, in large part, from their close attention to details and financial figures. A report that the Hastings airport is ahead of its five-year schedule toward self-sufficiency, a surplus distribution from its insurance risk fund that will allow work to begin on a court security plan, and a proposed selffunded expansion of the Commission on Aging building were good news items that headlined a busy agenda. The airport’s good news came as part of a request for the county to approve a $206,550 transfer from the facility’s fund balance to help construct a six-unit box hangar at the facility, which is co-owned by both Barry County and the City of Hastings. A local donor has offered to contribute $80,000 to the project, bringing the airport commission’s cost to $126,550. “At the end of the year, even with the cost of the new building, we’ll still have $70,000 in fund balance based on the revenue coming in,” airport administrator Mark Noteboom told commissioners. “This building will bring in $15,000 per year [in rental fees] when it’s all full.” Noteboom indicated that one more building is still on the drawing board, but, with completion of the current hangar being proposed, will likely be paid for with existing revenue. “We’re ahead of our five-year schedule,” commented Commissioner Robert Houtman, “and, by the end of this year, we’re basically there.” Commissioner Ben Geiger added his support. “The airport’s problem is generating revenue, and you can’t be on the road to self-sufficiency if you don’t have a place to put planes,” said Geiger. “This building amount is less than what we had originally planned.” The committee of the whole voted 8-0 to move the recommendation for final approval to Tuesday’s official board of commissioners meeting. Commissioners were also pleased to learn that the Michigan Municipal Risk Management Authority, its self-insurance pool for liability and property coverage, had refunded $252,657 to the county in excess funds. “Better-than-expected loss trends, good management practices, improved investment results and the long-term commitments that members have made to MMRMA, is why we’re receiving this disbursement,” explained County Administrator Michael Brown, who also asked for the board’s direction in how the money be allocated. “We could place it in the general fund,” he said. “We could use it for the security improvements we’ve discussed with the courts, or we could leave it for payment of possible future insurance claims.” Though Commissioner Don Nevins pushed for retaining a portion of the payment in the insurance fund, other commissioners resisted, pointing out the commitment it made months ago to realign county offices leading, ultimately, to greater court security. “We have to ask, ‘What’s our highest pri- ority,’” pointed out Commissioner Jeff VanNortwick, who advocated for allocating the payment to the court security plan. “This is an opportunity to take advantage, and it will show strong security to our insurer.” “I agree, Jeff,” responded Nevins, “but if it’s our highest priority, this should have been worked on months ago.” When he subsequently joined the 8-0 vote to recommend the action to place the money in the court security plan after hearing out VanNortwick, Nevins playfully added a personal observation. “There I go,” smiled Nevins, “I ate my words again.” Nevins also set up Tammy Pennington, executive director of the Commission on Aging, with the day’s sharpest quip when Pennington appeared before the board to present a draft of a proposed expansion of the COA facility on Woodlawn Avenue in Hastings. Key to the expansion would be a 300-person meeting space that, with expandable walls, could also accommodate smaller group meetings. Reallocated space would also make possible a larger dining area, an expanded space to accommodate growing requests for adult day care, and a recreation area primarily for the growing number of men who use the facility and who enjoy pool. Of special interest to commissioners was Pennington’s comment that, though costs have not yet been calculated, they would be covered by existing fund balance and a possible capital campaign. After Commission Chair Craig Stolsonburg playfully asked who was responsible for adding a pool table to the plan, Nevins stepped up with his observation that he may, one day soon, be using it. “In two years, I’ll be 62 and I’ll be able to use the COA,” Nevins told Pennington, to which Pennington had a quick response. “Well, Don, at 62 years in two years, that means you can come today.” In other business, the commission: • Designated June 15 as Elder Abuse Awareness Day in Barry County. • Recommended for official board approval at next week’s meeting to contribute $1,414 for dues needed to participate in the West Michigan Regional Planning Commission and a regional Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy. • Recommended approval of $28,495 from the Home Funds account in the County Home Buyer Rehabilitation Purchase program to award Anderson Builders a contract for home rehabilitation work at 628 W. Madison St. in Hastings. • Recommended approval of a shared county arrangement to retain a temporary planner for Emergency Management with funding to be provided from the Homeland Security Grant Program. • Received an update on the balance in the delinquent tax revolving fund and its change based on the most recent calculated taxable property values. • Recommended contracting for completion of the commercial and industrial property appraisal process. Brown explained to the commission that securing a full-time equalization director has been problematic in that the county has been classified as a Class 4 county, requiring skills beyond what the market can provide. Pickups collide at Broadway and Campground Road Bank hosting longterm care, Medicaid planning seminar Argo retires after 30 years of service Hastings Police Officer Rick Argo (right) retire last week after 30 years with the department. Argo was one of only a couple of officers sponsored by the Hastings Police Department to attend the Kalamazoo Valley Community College Police Academy. During his career with the Hastings Police Department, Argo was volunteer reserve officer, dispatcher and a road patrol officer, with some duties on bicycle and motorcycle. He also was a defensive tactics instructor and a 20-year instructor of the department’s precision driving program. Argo is joined here by Hastings Police Chief Jerry Sarver (left) and Hastings Mayor Bob May. Hastings City Bank’s Trust and Investment Group will host a long-term care and Medicaid planning update Thursday, June 14, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. The seminar is designed for people who are concerned about how to pay for nursing home expenses without losing assets. The update will take place in the community room at the Hastings branch, located at 150 W. Court St. Attorney Robert Longstreet will present information on how Medicaid pays for a nursing home, the four major Medicaid eligibility factors, what assets and income one may keep and still receive Medicaid, special rules for spouses, the “estate recovery” law and planning techniques for estate preservation, along with time for questions and comments. This informational seminar is offered at no charge to the community, but reservations are requested by calling 269-948-5579. Refreshments will be served. Emergency crew members wait to transport a car accident victim to the medical helicopter headed for Borgess. A 65-year-old Plainwell driver, reportedly unfamiliar with the area, was traveling south on Campground Road, south of Hastings, and ran the stop sign at the South Broadway intersection Thursday, May 31, around 10:15 a.m.. His silver Honda struck a pickup traveling north on Broadway. Michigan State Police reported the truck went off the roadway, ricocheted off a tree and stopped in a ditch. The other truck’s driver, a 20-year-old Hastings woman, and her 11-month-old son were taken to Pennock Hospital, treated and released the same day. The Plainwell driver was uninjured. His passenger, a 65-year-old Hastings woman, experienced chest pains and an injury to her head. She was transported by helicopter to Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo where she was treated and given five stitches to the head. According to MSP, the chest pains may have been the result of seatbelt pressure upon impact. She is a grandmother of the second truck’s occupants. �Page 16 — Thursday, June 7, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Wandell, Walker and Lakewood qualify for regional by Brett Bremer Sports Editor It was wet, cool, the greens were tough and all in all it wasn’t a bad day for the local boys at the Division 3 District Tournament hosted by Yarrow Golf Course Thursday. Lakewood’s varsity boys’ golf team is headed to this week’s regional tournament at The Medalist in Marshall looking to earn its second straight trip to the state finals. Delton Kellogg senior Mitch Wandell is headed to regionals for the fourth time, looking to earn an individual spot in the finals for a second straight spring. Maple Valley senior Caleb Walker is headed to regionals for a third time, looking to earn his first spot in the finals. Wandell and Walker were among the six individual regional qualifiers from the district tournament. The top six teams and top six individuals not on those teams earned spots in today’s regional. Lakewood’s team finished fifth. Delton Kellogg’s Zack Simon chips his ball towards the green on number 11 at Yarrow Golf Course Thursday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Delton Kellogg’s Mitchell Wandell hits his drive on the par-5 number 11 in the rain at Yarrow Golf Course Thursday during his team’s Division 3 District Tournament. (Photo by Brett Bremer) “I putted really good. My mid irons were pretty good. I kind of just relaxed a little bit,” said Wandell after his 80 placed him fourth among the possible individual qualifiers. Taking a nine on the par-5 number seven hurt his final score, and Wandell said he planned on hitting a lot of range balls and working on shots from about 100 yards out during the week leading up to the regional tournament. “Those weren’t very good today either,” Wandell said. “I couldn’t get close enough for a birdie putt.” Walker was third amongst those not on the top six teams, shooting a 78. He certainly is happy to be headed back to regionals after qualifying for the second round of the state tournament at the end of his freshman and sophomore seasons. He didn’t move past the district round of the state tournament in his junior year, and said that brought out a bit of a change in attitude. “I decided I needed to be a lot more focused. I couldn’t take chances, just kind of play it safe and keep calm,” said Walker. There were times when he did that Thursday, and times when he did not. “After my tee shot (on the par-5 number seven), I had a chance for the green and I went for it and blew it and that made it my worst hole of the day,” said Walker. “I didn’t on a couple of holes, but for the majority I tried to play safe. It happens. You get excited. I’m only human.” He got an early confidence boost from a birdie on the his third hole, the par-5 number 11, and after having trouble figuring out the greens during a practice round last week he felt much more comfortable with it Thursday. Walker and Wandell were two of four Kalamazoo Valley Association golfers among the six individual regional qualifiers. Olivet’s Keegan Carpenter shot a 74 and his teammate Tyler Masters added an 84. The other two individual qualifiers were from Portland, Alex Halik who shot a 78 and Ryan Balderson who fired an 85. Lansing Catholic Central took the day’s championship with a score of 313. West Catholic, playing without its top player last year’s state runner-up Sam Weatherhead, finished second with a 323. Lansing Catholic’s Jacob Johnson was the day’s top player, firing a 69. NorthPointe Christian was third with a 325, followed by Pennfield 333, Lakewood 337 and Allendale 342. Behind the top six teams, Olivet was seventh with a 348, followed by Portland 350, Delton Kellogg 354, Maple Valley 357, Calvin Christian 383 and Hopkins 399. Maple Valley also got an 87 from Dale White, a 91 from Ryan Mudge and a 101 from Nick Iszler. Delton Kellogg’s number two Zack Simon, matched White’s 87, two strokes back of the regional qualifying pace. Delton also got a 90 from Conner Worm and a 97 from Anthony Houtrow. Royce Everts led Lakewood with an 80. Adam Barker added an 83, Jade Bosworth an 85 and Ben Ridder an 89. Behind Johnson for the regional champions, Brent Marshall shot a 73, Niko Voutsaras shot an 83 and Steven Levandowski shot an 88. The Pennfield team, which finished fourth and qualified for regionals was led by Jacob Emmons’ 81. The Panthers also got an 82 from Levi Hamlin, an 84 from Garrett Day, and a pair of 86s from Nick Linsley and Trevor Cameron. Lakewood’s Adam Barker taps a putt across the green on number 12 during the Division 3 District Tournament at Yarrow Golf Course in Augusta Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Saxons come from behind to get to District Final Hastings put together the rally it needed to reach the Division 2 District Championship Game at Otsego High School Saturday, but Gull Lake didn’t let the Saxons come from behind a second time. Gull Lake earned a spot in Saturday’s Division 2 Regional Tournament at Edwardsburg with a 6-0 victory over the Saxons in the district final. The Saxons scored three runs in the top of the seventh inning to earn a 7-5 win over Plainwell in the district semifinals Saturday, after Gull Lake had knocked off Otsego 5-3 in the first district semifinal of the day. Hastings managed just three hits in the district final. Farrah Salazar and Erika Rozell both singled in the top of the second inning, but the final two batters grounded out to end the best threat of the contest for Hastings. The Saxons also got a single by Stevie Pennepacker in the top of the fourth. Gull Lake pitcher Courtney Senkewitz struck out nine in earning the complete-game win. “Gull Lake’s pitcher was dominant in the game today,” said Hastings head coach Doug Griggs. “She is one of the best pitchers we’ve seen all season. Gull Lake has a very good team. I believe they’ve won 27 or 28 games this year.” Gull Lake scored a run in the bottom of the second, then added two more in the third with the help of a Saxon error. Another error, and four hits, pushed across three more runs for the Blue Devils in the fifth. Needing one run to tie and two to take the lead in the top of the seventh against Plainwell, the Saxons started the top of the seventh inning with singles from Lexi Clow and Katie DeVries. Salazar then followed with ground ball to second base that was misplayed for an error to load the bases. With Pennepacker at the plate, Plainwell’s pitcher uncorked a wild pitch to score Clow from third base to tie the game. Pennepacker thren drew a walk to reload the bases. Liz Guernsey delivered the base hit to give the Saxons their 7-5 lead. “We’ve talked a lot all season about playing hard the entire game until the final out is made no matter what the situation is,” said Griggs. “So, it was nice to see our players fight back from the early deficit and score the runs in the last two innings and get the win.” Plainwell took the early lead with five runs in the bottom of the third inning. A walk, four singles and a double powered the rally. Hastings had scored first, on an RBI ground-out off the bat of DeVries that followed a double from Clow. Hastings tacked on its second run with a home run by Salazar in the top of the fourth. The Saxons finally got within striking distance of the Trojans in the sixth, adding two more runs to make it 5-4. Salazar singled and Rozell followed with her first home run of the season. Saxon pitcher Laken Meade shut out Plainwell over the final four innings to preserve the come from behind win. Meade struck out four and walked one while allowing eight hits in getting the win. “Laken had a rough third inning, but other than that she pitched a great game,” Griggs said. “She got the Plainwell team to hit a lot of ground balls on the infield and our defense did a good job behind her.” Gull Lake will face Stevensville Lakeshore in the first of two regional semifinal contests at Edwardsburg Saturday. Edwardsburg takes on Coloma in the second, with the regional championship game to follow. Hopkins edges DK for district title Delton Kellogg’s varsity softball team battled to the last at-bat in each of its two district contests at Maple Valley High School Saturday. The Panthers came out on the winning end in the Division 3 District Semifinal against Saranac, topping the Redskins 5-4 in nine innings. In the district final, it was Hopkins coming out on top 10-8 to win the championship and advance to this Saturday’s Division 3 Regional Tournament. Hopkins scored three runs in the top of the seventh inning, two of them unearned, to score the two-run win over Delton after the Panthers led 8-7 heading into the seventh. Senior Brooke Martin had a huge day for the Panthers, pitching both games. At the plate, she drilled a three-run home run against Hopkins and also added a double and a single. Martin was one of two Panthers with three hits in the loss. Brooke O’Meara had three singles. The Delton offense also got two doubles from Kami McCowan, a double and a single from Kaysie Hook, and a pair of singles from Chelsea O’Dell. Martin took the loss, allowing seven hits and two walks while striking out six. Martin also had the big hit in game one, an RBI double down the left field line in the bottom of the ninth inning which drove home McCowan from second. That late Delton rally started with a McCowan walk. She went to second on a sacrifice by Cassandra Coplin. All four of Saranac’s runs were unearned against Martin. She gave up just three hits and struck out six. Martin had four hits in the game-one win, two doubles and two singles. Coplin had four hits as well, three singles and a double. Libby Parker, McCowan and Hook each had a hit as well for Delton. Hopkins reached the championship game with a 15-10 win over host Maple Valley in its semifinal contest. The Vikings will take on Springport in the first of two regional semifinal contests at Lansing Catholic Saturday. Laingsburg and Calvin Christian meet in the second semifinal of the day, with the regional championship game to follow. 07600585 June 7, 8 & 9 at 7:00pm present an evening of comedy Three One Act Plays: The Still Alarm by George S. Kauffman The Ugly Duckling by A.A. Milne The Twelve Pound Look by J.M. Barrie Barry Community Enrichment Center (Leason Sharp Hall) 231 South Broadway, Hastings Limited seating for all shows Tickets: Adults - $8 Children, Students & Seniors - $6 Available at the door and at Progressive Graphics Questions? Call 269.945.2332 Delton Kellogg’s Kami McCowan slides in safely ahead of the throw to score a run for the Panthers during their Division 3 District Championship game against Hopkins at Maple Valley High School Saturday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Brooke Martin’s (14) Delton Kellogg teammates greet her at home plate after her three-run home run against Hopkins in the Division 3 District Championship Game at Maple Valley High School Saturday afternoon. (Photo by Perry Hardin) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 7, 2012 — Page 17 Lakewood girls finish at Saranac baseball brings end to .500 for the first time season for Lions and Panthers Lakewood’s Madi Neustifer tries to get to the ball before Marshall’s Carmen O’Dell can drop a pass back during the first half of Thursday’s Division 3 District Semifinal at Pennfield High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Getting on base was no problem for the Panthers. Touching the plate was. Delton Kellogg’s varsity baseball team saw its season end with a 3-0 loss to Saranac in the Division 3 District Semifinals hosted by Maple Valley in Vermontville Saturday. Delton Kellogg collected five hits, earned nine walks, but couldn’t get the key hit to drive anyone home. The Panthers left the bases loaded in three of the seven innings. “I felt we played well enough to win, but could not quite get over the hump,” said Delton Kellogg head coach Bill Humphrey. “Bottom-line, Saranac did a very good job of taking advantage of their limited opportunities while we did not. In particular, coach (Tim) Ward’s team played flawlessly in the field and their pitchers did an amazing job of missing the ”middle of the plate.” The Redskins pushed across single runs in the bottom of the first, fourth and fifth innings. Saranac managed seven hits and got the benefit of three Delton Kellogg errors, while not making an error of its own. All five Delton Kellogg hits off of Saranac pitchers Shane Gunter and Kiefer Simmons who combined for the shut-out. Nick Brindley had two of the Delton Kellogg hits, which were all singles. Zach Young, Zach Meyers and Jared Buckland had the other three Panther hits. Delton Kellogg pitcher Sam Horrocks took the loss, despite giving up just one earned run. In his four innings on the mound, he struck out three. An RBI double by Simmons was the big hit for the Redskins. The Delton Kellogg boys end the season with a record of 3-22. Maple Valley’s Garrett Miller tumbles over teammate Sammy Benedict as he tries to make a catch in the outfield during Saturday’s Division 3 District Championship Game against Saranac in Vermontville. (Photo by Perry Hardin) “We really had a great bunch of boys who stuck together through thick and thin,” Humphrey said. “It can be easy to do so when things are ‘thick’, but it’s a real characterrevealer to do so during the ‘thin’ times.” The team will lose the services of seniors Cody Sevigny, Brindley and Ryan Hook to graduation. “Their competitiveness, leadership and enthusiasm definitely will be missed,” Humphrey said. Saranac went on to top Maple Valley 8-5 in the district championship game. The Lions defeated Hopkins 4-1 in the other district semifinal contest Saturday in Vermontville. The district championship gives Saranac the chance to play in this Saturday’s Division 3 Regional Tournament at Lansing Catholic. The Redskins will face Olivet in the second of two regional semifinals, with the host Cougars meeting NorthPointe Christian in the first. TK pitchers pick college programs Lakewood senior Chelsie Doran looks to send the ball ahead during the first half of Thursday’s Division 3 District Semifinal against Marshall at Pennfield High School in Battle Creek. (Photo by Brett Bremer) by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Somebody has to draw the top ten teams in the state to start the state tournament. Lakewood was one of those somebodies. The Lakewood varsity girls’ soccer team fell 8-0 to Marshall in the Division 3 District Semifinals at Pennfield High School Thursday evening. Marshall, ranked fifth in the state in Division 3, scored seven goals in the first half then finished off the Vikings with a nice little give-and-go eight and a half minutes into the second half. The Red Hawks’ Vicki Sell tapped the ball back and forth with teammate Carmen O’Dell then fired the game clinching show low into the right side of the net. Sell and O’Dell had two goals each for Marshall. “They were really good,” said Lakewood head coach Paul Gonzales. “I think the (rainy) weather conditions hurt us. That may sound funny, but it’s true. We couldn’t get set on defense and basically if we were going to do anything with them it was going to be through defense. We just couldn’t. Our goalie was slipping around. Defenders were slipping around. They were just a good team though, there’s no doubt about it.” Marshall began to really pull away with four goals in the final 9:06 of the first half. Katie Blank, Syndey Reichenbaugh Brianna Kalisz and Tristan Tobias had the other four goals for the Red Hawks. Marshall opened the tournament Tuesday, with a 10-1 win over Belding. The Red Hawks will take on Delton Kellogg in the district final today (June 2) at Pennfield High School. Delton Kellogg knocked off host Pennfield 2-1 in the other semifinal Thursday, getting a header from Sarah Rendon with 3:23 to play to break the 1-1 tie. “It was a good season for us. That’s a heck of a way to lose. Tough to meet somebody like that right off the bat. It would have been fun to play an Olivet or a Belding,” said Gonzales. Lakewood needed one victory in the postseason to secure its first ever winning record. Still, the Vikings tied the school record for wins with eight and had the first team in the history of the program not to have a losing record. They were 8-8-1 on the season. “There is a good foundation coming back,” Gonzales said. “We’re going to lose some key seniors. We’ve got to learn to get a little more serious. We goof around a little too much at practice and stuff like that. I think a lot of it is because we’ve got so many underclassmen. Next year, the hammer is going to come down a little harder. Coach Gonzales is going to be a little tougher on them, cause I think there’s a lot of potential.” That group of seniors was led by captains Chelsie Doran, Roxanne Powelson and Kelsey Brown. Saxon baseball downed by Blue Devils in district Hastings reached the finals at Saturday’s Division 2 District Tournament in Otsego. The Saxon varsity baseball team opened the day with an 11-3 win over Plainwell. Gull Lake earned the district championship, topping the Saxons 16-1 in the final. The Blue Devils reached the championship game by topping the host Bulldogs 7-1 in the day’s other district semifinal. The win earns the Blue Devils a spot in this Saturday’s Division 2 Regional Tournament at Edwardsburg. Gull Lake will face St. Joseph in the second of two regional semifinals, with Coldwater and South Haven meeting in the first. by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity softball team is sending a couple of pitchers to the collegiate ranks. Liz Polmanteer and Lauren Bailey signed their National Letters of Intent last month in the Thornapple Kellogg High School library. Polmanteer will join the Siena Heights Women’s Softball Program and Bailey is headed to join the Cornerstone University Women’s Softball Program. There was just some friendly competition between all the Trojan pitchers during the course of the season. Polmanteer was undoubtedly the team’s ace. “We’ve just always played together and pushed each other kind of,” Polmanteer said. “We’re positive with each other. We know whoever is pitching should be strong.” Both girls earned All-Conference honors in the O-K Gold this spring. Polmanteer was also an all-conference performer as a junior. “Liz is just a tireless worker. She loves the sport so much,” said Thornapple Kellogg varsity softball coach Andy Saldivar, who took over the program this spring. “She loves to play and she’s so smart. She’s very, very knowledgeable about the game. She knows right away what to do. She’s a coach on the field. I just remind her of things that she’s learned from all her experiences. She just takes it all in and she does it. Sometimes she’s hard on herself, but it just makes her harder and a better ball player.” Polmanteer will pitch at Siena Heights, which is her favorite position, but she said that the Siena Heights coaches have told her that they really like her versatility. Her favorite other positions are in the middle infield, shortstop and second base. There were three things she really liked about Siena Heights, the chance to play softball, the chance to study to become a special education teacher, and the chance to continue her faith in God. Playing softball is kind of a plus for Bailey. “I’ve been looking at Cornerstone since last year,” Bailey said. “It’s the only place that I applied to because I visited there and I knew right away that’s where I wanted to go, and they have the program I want to go into - their media program. I’m really excited about it. I’ve always loved softball. I’m excited to be a part of the team.” She plans on going into film. “I like being behind the camera,” Bailey said. “I’ve done a lot of stuff with my church and with our class we have here, and I’ve won a few competitions with it.” Bailey pitched for the Trojan softball team and was an outstanding outfielder. “She has always been a pitcher for us, from freshman year on up, and she’s done really well in the outfield,” Saldivar said. “She’s got a great arm. Just knows how to be in the action at the right time.” “She has really, really advanced this year defensively and also hitting the ball. She’s thrown quite a few runners out from the outfield, at bases and at home plate. That’s a big plus, especially for college. They’re looking for a nice strong arm and she’s got one.” He added that the way Bailey and Polmanteer care for their teammates and the way they work hard are big parts of why they’ve earned the opportunity to continue their softball careers. Thornapple Kellogg’s Liz Polmanteer (left) and Lauren Bailey signed their National Letters of Intent recently to continue their softball playing days on the collegiate level. Polmanteer is headed to Siena Heights and Bailey to Cornerstone University. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Mahon will throw for the Golden Eagles’ track team Thornapple Kellogg’s Mike “Trey” Mahon recently signed his National Letter of Intent to join the Cornerstone University Men’s Track and Field team. He was joined by Cornerstone head coach Rod Wortley on his signing day. “I've been very impressed with how hard Trey has worked since his junior year,” said Wortley. “He's seeing that pay off with an outstanding senior season. He’s also a great fit with our guys and our program. We are excited to have him as a Golden Eagle next season.” Mahon is in action today at the Division 2 State Finals at Houseman Field in Grand Rapids. As of his signing day, Trey’s best discus throw flew 155 feet 9 inches, and he’d extended his personal record in the shot put to 49-9. �Page 18 — Thursday, June 7, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Marshall erases two Delton leads in district finals by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The lead got away from Delton Kellogg twice. Delton Kellogg’s varsity girls’ softball team scored the only two goals of the first half in its Division 3 District Final against Marshall at Pennfield High School Saturday. Marshall rallied to force overtime, then came back from a one-goal deficit in the extra sessions to score a 4-3 victory and advance to this week’s Division 3 Regional Tournament hosted by Unity Christian. An own goal by the Panthers in a scramble following a Marshall corner kick early in the second half sparked the Red Hawks, who then got the game-tying goal from Chelsea Tobias with just under four minutes to play. Tobias scored three goals for Marshall. Delton Kellogg got the lead back in the first ten minute overtime session when Hannah Phommavongsa scored off an assist from Alea Hammond with 3:40 left in the period, but Tobias tied the score again with a goal with just four seconds left on the clock. Tobias then netted the game-winner early in the second ten minutes of overtime. Sam Zettelmaier opened the scoring for Delton, finding the back of the net after taking in a pass from Aryka Poling with 24:24 left before the break. Phommavongsa then put in her first goal of the game with 6:31 left in the first half, off an assist form Brianna Russell. Delton Kellogg’s girls end the season with an 18-4 record. The core of the team will get to make another run at Kalamazoo Valley Association and district championships again next season. The Panther roster included just five seniors, a group made up of Alea Hammond, Ciaira Willma, Sarah Maison, Sara Bork and Ines Romero. Delton Kellogg did accomplish one thing it wanted to in the district tournament, winning its season series with Pennfield. The two teams each won a game 5-1 during the Kalamazoo Valley Association season. “Two weeks ago in the KVA (tournament) my girls lost that game to Hackett, and the didn’t recover,” said Delton Kellogg head coach Tracy Webster. “They didn’t want to be in that third/fourth place game. They wanted to be in that first/second place game. Tonight we knew we could possibly get some sweet revenge.” It was the Delton Kellogg Panthers who came from behind in the district semifinals Thursday. Pennfield had trouble clearing the ball from in front of its net with just under four minutes to play, and when it did finally chip the ball out DK sophomore Sara Rendon leapt up and headed it back the other way into the net to put her team up 2-1 and that’s the way the game ended. Pennfield took a 1-0 lead on a goal by Elizabeth Harrard with 8:36 remaining in the Delton Kellogg’s Sarah Rendon (9) sends a header over the Pennfield defense and into the goal for what would prove to be the game-winner in the final minutes of her team’s 2-1 victory over the host Panthers in the Division 3 District Semifinals at Pennfield High School Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) first half. It didn’t take long for the Delton Kellogg girls to tie up the contest in the second half. Russell drew a penalty kick for her Panther team as she tried to make a run around the right side of the Pennfield defense. Goalkeeper Carlye Hammond converted on the penalty kick with 31:57 left to play. Delton and Pennfield shared possession time throughout the contest, but it was the Delton Kellogg girls who created the most Delton Kellogg goalkeeper Carlye Hammond leans to her right to make a save during the opening minutes of her team’s Division 3 District Semifinal against Pennfield in Battle Creek Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Delton Kellogg’s Autumn Russell (right) comes flying in to try and stop a clearing attempt by Marshall’s Anyah Preston during Saturday’s Division 3 District Final at Pennfield High School. (Photo by John Hendler) Delton Kellogg’s Alea Hammond (right) battles for possession of the ball with Pennfield’s Caitlin Jackson Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) dangerous offensive chances. Delton Kellogg goalkeeper Carlye Hammond made just one save, and that came in the opening minutes of the ball game following a Pennfield corner kick. “Our key in the back is called Christi Boze,” Webster said. “She’s on their best player every time, and also Sam Zettelmaier. She’s on their second best player and we just don’t leave their side. Sam Gonzalez, my sweeper, she just knows where to place the defense and they listen to her. She’s a good captain out there on the field and directs the traffic.” Pennfield’s Kirstin Langer had five saves at the other end. Marshall reached the district final with an 8-0 win over Lakewood in the semifinals Thursday. The Red Hawks were downed by South Christian in the Division 3 Regional Semifinals at Unity Christian Tuesday. Maple Valley girls fall in their first district final by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Lions started getting into some advanced math. The season started with the hopes of subtracting some errors. The Lions added some goals. By the end the Maple Valley varsity girls’ soccer team was getting into geometry, and it all started to equal some wins. Maple Valley’s varsity girls’ soccer team reached its first ever district final last week, advancing to Division 4 District Final Saturday on Fuller Street Field in Nashville, against Springport. The Spartans, ranked ninth in the state, topped the Lions 4-0 to advance to this week’s regional tournament. The Lions defeated Potterville in their district opener last Tuesday, then earned a spot in the district championship game with a 5-1 victory over visiting Calhoun County Christian Thursday. “It sounds crazy, but soccer is a game of space and angles, both offensively and defensively,” said Maple Valley head coach Chris Ricketts. “We’re starting to get the concept of space, moving into open space and staying away from each other and playing the angles.” “It’s fun to see them play it the way it’s meant to be played. They know it too. It’s fun.” Ricketts said he had a special talk with freshman forward Emma McGlocklin at half time. “I told her, ‘you’re an athlete. When you get it, you’ll never understand why you didn’t get it before,’” said Ricketts. “She came out smiling.” “She just got it. She could see the field.” McGlocklin scored one of the Lions’ five unanswered goals to end the game. Calhoun County Christian scored the game’s first goal, on a penalty kick. The Lions didn’t get down after that though. “We knew we were dominating the game for the first five or ten minutes, and they got a breakaway and we had to haul her down,” said Ricketts. Breanna Heinze, who finished with two goals, soon tied up the score. Olivia Ricketts then scored to give the Lions the lead going into the half. Heinze, McGlocklin and then Wiebke Sass scored in the second half for Maple Valley. Goalkeeper Kristin Primm stopped all seven shots that came her way during the regular course of play. Springport, ranked ninth in the state in Division 4, topped No. 7 Quincy 2-0 in the first round last Tuesday, then beat Albion 3-0 in its semifinal match Thursday. Springport got three goals and an assist from Cassandra Bell, and another goal from Aleisha Emens, to score the win over the Lions Saturday. The Lions fell 7-0 when the two teams met during the regular season. “They were happy with the progress we made,” Ricketts said of his girls. “They were pleased. A lot of parents came up and congratulated them.” The Lions’ Gretchen Hakenjos fires a shot through a crowd of Calhoun County Christian defenders during her team’s 5-1 victory in the Division 4 District Semifinals Thursday in Nashville. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Vikes shutout in district semi Maple Valley goalkeeper Kristin Primm rises up to try and keep the ball out of her net during Saturday’s Division 4 District Final against Springport at Fuller Street Field in Nashville. (Photo by Perry Hardin) The Vikings had two hits, three baserunners and no runs. Portland’s varsity softball team knocked off its Capital Area Activities Conference White Division rivals from Lakewood 9-0 in the Division 2 District Semifinals at Eaton Rapids High School Saturday. Singles by Cori Curtis and Brooke Wieland were the only hits for the Vikings off of Raider pitcher Allie Grys. Taylor Vantland also reached on an error. Curtis was the only one to advance. She led-off the top of the fourth inning with a single, and moved to third on a pair of ground-outs, before Grys induced another ground-out to end the inning. The Raiders already had a 2-0 lead at that point, after they opened the game with a triple, a walk and a single in the bottom of the first. Madison Adams led off the inning with a triple and came home on a wild pitch. Courtney Schrauben had an RBI single after a walk by Samantha Parkhouse. Portland responded to the Lakewood threat in the top of the fourth inning by scoring five runs in the bottom half of the inning. A couple walks, a couple hits and a couple Viking errors kept the rally going. Portland then tacked on two more runs in the bottom of the sixth, with the help of another Viking error. Grys got the win, striking out seven and not walking a single batter. Lakewood’s Britteny Hilley took the loss allowing six runs, but only two were earned. She gave up just three hits in three and a third innings and walked two. Adams was 2-for-4 and scored two runs to lead the Raider attack. She also had one RBI. Allison Russell added an RBI double in the fourth inning. Samantha Parkhouse also scored two runs for the Raiders, despite not getting a hit in the game. Portland had just six hits. The host Greyhounds won the district championship, knocking off Charlotte 9-0 in the other semifinal Saturday and then besting Portland 3-1 in the championship game. They’ll be in DeWitt Saturday for their Division 2 Regional Tournament. Eaton Rapids faces St Johns in one regional semifinal, while Wayland will face Linden in the other. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 7, 2012 — Page 19 TK baseball wins first-ever district championship by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Thornapple Kellogg varsity baseball coach Jack Hobert likes the way his team is able to battle from behind. “They’ve been there before,” he’ll say. Well, Saturday the Trojans were somewhere they’ve never been before - standing on the diamond celebrating a district championship. Thornapple Kellogg clinched its first ever district title, knocking off Byron Center 8-7 in the Division 2 District Final at the South Christian Sports Park Saturday afternoon, earning a spot in the regional semifinals against Fowlerville at DeWitt High School this Saturday. “It was tremendous,” said Hobert. “As soon as that last out was made, the gloves went up in the air. I went and picked up (freshman pitcher) Dalton Phillips. It was a rough day for him. He’d never been hit like that. That celebration went on into the night. The kids were all together talking about it, and the parents were beaming from ear to ear.” Phillips went the distance on the mound for the Trojans, striking out eight. He gave up ten hits including a couple doubles and a couple triples, and walked just one though. All seven runs off of him were earned. Byron Center tied the championship game at 7-7 with a run in the top of the sixth inning, Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity baseball team celebrates its program’s first ever district championship after knocking off Byron Center 8-7 in the Division 2 District Final at the South Christian Sports Park Saturday afternoon. The Trojans will face Fowlerville in the Division 2 Regional Semifinals Saturday at noon at DeWitt High School. but the Trojans answered right back to take the lead. Nate Iveson walked, moved to second on a bunt by Cody Ybema, then scored from there on a single off the bat of Garrett Harris. Iveson challenged the Bulldog outfield, and the throw was far enough off-line for him to touch the plate safely. “We were pretty aggressive on the base paths in that game,” Hobert said. “We took the extra base when we could get it, which was tough because they’re catcher had a pretty good arm.” The Bulldog pitcher, Jon Hall, has a pretty good arm too. Hobert said he was expecting a pitchers’ duel. Then, the Bulldogs scored three runs in the top of the first inning. TK had an answer though, scoring four times in the top half. The big blow for TK was a threerun double off the outfield fence by senior Jordan Timm. Byron Center took the lead back with three runs in the top of the third. This time, TK answered with three runs in the bottom of the fourth. TK was outhit, 10 to 7. Iveson was the only Trojan with two hits. He had a double, a triple and a pair of walks in his four plate appearances. He scored two runs and drove in one. Alex Roy, Ybema and Dylan VanPutten also drove in runs for TK. Ybema scored twice. The Trojans will be a part of the second regional semifinal at DeWitt Saturday, with the game slated for a noon start. Owosso and Portland meet in the other semifinal at 10 a.m. The regional championship game is slated for 2 p.m. The Trojans knocked off O-K Gold Conference rival Wayland in the district semifinal at South Christian Saturday, 9-2. VanPutten was 2-for-2 to lead the Trojan attack, with a home run and two RBI. He walked twice and scored two runs. Harris was 3-for-4 with a double, a triple and an RBI. He scored three runs. TK also got two hits each from Iveson and Roy. Roy and Ybema had two RBI each. Ybema had a triple, and Brendon Hudson chipped in a double. Harris earned the win on the mound, striking out four and allowing four hits and two walks in six innings. He allowed one run. Timm gave up the other one on in relief in the seventh. Area athletes get a handful of medals at D2 Finals The Vikings’ Ashley Jemison unleashes a throw in the discus during the Division 2 Track and Field Finals at Houseman Field in Grand Rapids. She was the state runner-up in the event with a throw of 123 feet 9 inches. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The Saxons’ Nikki Redman flies over a hurdle during the 300-meter low hurdles race at the Division 2 Track and Field Finals at Houseman Field in Grand Rapids Saturday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The day had a lot to do with redemption for Hastings senior Jacob Comer. Comer hit the ground twice during a heat of the 110-meter high hurdles at the Division 2 Track and Field Finals in 2011, and was beat up enough that he didn’t run in the 300-meter intermediate hurdles later in the day. “I wanted to come back and withstand the day, to say that I can do it,” Comer said. Comer proved that he could Saturday at Houseman Field in Grand Rapids, earning a state medal with an eighth place finish in the 110-meter high hurdles at the 2012 Finals. He finished the race in 14.99 seconds, and just missed the medals in the 300-meter intermediate hurdles with a ninth-place time of 40.49. “I’m pretty pleased with it. I’d say it’s a good way to end my senior year,” said Comer. Comer was one of two Saxon seniors in the hurdles on the day. Nikki Redman also competed in the 300-meter low hurdles in the girls’ finals. Comer, who holds the Hastings school record in each of the two hurdles races, said having fun is a big reason why the Saxons turn out such talented hurdlers. “We have fun every day at practice, without a doubt, is the main thing I’m guessing. We don’t really take anything too serious,” he said. The area had a seriously good day in the discus competition. Three local athletes medaled in the event. Lakewood senior Ashley Jemison was second in the girls’ com- Hastings’ Jacob Comer races towards the finish in the 300-meter intermediate hurdles Saturday at the Division 2 Track and Field Finals in Grand Rapids. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Thornapple Kellogg’s Erin Ellinger spins in the circle during the discus competition at Houseman Field in Grand Rapids Saturday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) petition with a throw of 123 feet 9 inches, and Thornapple Kellogg senior Erin Ellinger was fourth at 119-8. In the Division 2 boys’ competition, TK’s Mike “Trey” Mahon was seventh with a throw of 159-3. Jemison’s runner-up finish was the best finish of any of the local athletes. “The height of my disc was definitely good today, and my spin was good. I’ve been leaning the past couple meets and I didn’t today,” she said. “I practiced a lot over the last two days trying to get ready.” Her best throw came on her second throw of the day. She had to worry more about someone catching her for second throughout the rest of the competition than worry about trying to jump into first place. Detroit Country Day’s Brittany Mann won her second straight D2 discus championship with a throw of 156-8. “It’s like perfection, like her whole spin is like perfection,” Jemison said of watching Mann throw. “I wish I could do that good.” Ellinger medaled in both throws, also finishing fifth in the shot put with a mark of 380. Mann won that event too, with a throw of 41-11. Those two wins by Mann helped Detroit Country Day tie for the day’s girls’ championship. Both Country Day and Dearborn Divine Child finished with 60 points. DeWitt was third with 41 points, followed by Allendale 32, East Grand Rapids 32, Williamston 31, Pontiac Notre Dame Prep 29, South Christian 26, Grand Rapids Christian 23 and Forest Hills Eastern 20 in the top ten. Thornapple Kellogg and Lakewood each finished with nine points. Lakewood got its other point from its 800meter relay team of Ellie Reynolds, Madison McLean, Alexis Kosten and Mycah Ridder which placed eighth in a school record time of 1 minute 47.35 seconds. The Vikings almost missed out on competing in the event at the state finals at all. They dropped the baton at their regional race, but managed to recover it and still finish second. That left the Vikings in the first heat of the race at the state finals though, with just one other team, St. Clair which finished in 1:52.92. The Lakewood girls had to push themselves. “We had to run for time really,” Ridder said. “We felt pretty looserish. They called us heat zero, not first, zero. “It was a miracle really.” After their race, the Viking foursome had to sit and watch as three other full heats of girls took their turns. “Seeing the other girls was a little intimidating. They’re so tall,” said Ridder. “And they look so fast,” added McLean. It’s like, we’re not that fast.” No one was as fast as the Detroit Country Day girls in the race. They won it in 1:42.24 seconds, with the team of Jonell Nwabueze, Sydney Cureton, Ava Nasrollahzadeh and Kendall Baisden. Nwabueze, Baisden, Natasha Sood and Cureton teamed up to win the 400-meter relay for Country Day in 49.14. Cureton won the 100-meter dash in a new Division 2 record time of 11.90, and Baisden took the 400 in a new D2 record of 54.58. Dearborn Divine Child won just two events, with Paige Patterson taking the 200meter dash in 24.91. At the end of the day she teamed with Mallory Myler, Liz Mullen and Nicole Urbank to win the 1600-meter relay in 3:59.05. Sara Barron from Pontiac Notre Dame Prep and Tori Desira from DeWitt each won two individual titles. Desira took the 100-meter hurdles in 14.52 and the 300-meter low hurdles in 45.25. Barron won the 800 in 2:13.82 and the 1600 in a new D2 record of 4:51.67. There was also a new D2 record set in the 3200-meter run, which Allendale’s Ali Wiersma won in 10:40.22. Auburn Hills Avondale won the boys’ championship with sprinters leading the charge. Avondale’s Nathan Chapman won the 400-meter dash in 48.71, and later teamed with Geoffery Williston, J.T. Ozerities and Kyle Redwine to finish second in the 1600meter relay in 3:24.16, behind the team from Lansing Sexton (3:23.94). Avondale also had Redwine win the 100 in 10.53, and the team of Redwine, Henry Paul, Jeff Douglas and Myles Wright win the 400meter relay in 42.83. The Avondale team finished with 47 points. Sexton was second with 40, followed by Chelsea 38, Alma 36, Grand Rapids Christian 28, Zeeland West 21, Cedar Springs 20, Linden 19, Zeeland East 18 and Williamston 18 in the top ten. Cedar Springs’ Connor Mora was the only two-time individual event winner in the boys’ meet. He took the 1600 in 4:13.97 and the 800 in 1:56.41. Lakewood’s Alexis Kosten takes off at the start of the 1600-meter relay Saturday during the Division 2 Track and Field Finals at Houseman Field in Grand Rapids. (Photo by Brett Bremer) �Page 20 — Thursday, June 7, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Polley wins medal on record-setting day in hurdles by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Delton Kellogg senior Andrea Polley got a close up view of Reed City’s Sami Michell during her first race of the day, the first preliminary heat for the 100-meter high hurdles. Polley earned a spot in the semifinals with her time of 17.23 seconds. Michell cruised to the finish to win the heat of the prelims in 15.70 seconds. Polley got to watch from the infield as Michell won the final heat of the 300-meter low hurdles in 42.23 seconds. Polley had just finished winning the next to last heat of the race, in 47.61 seconds. That 47.61 was good enough to earn Polley the area’s only medal at the Division 3 Track and Field Finals at Comstock Park High School Saturday. It put her in fifth place in the race. “I just knew I couldn’t let anybody pass me,” Polley said of the 300 hurdles race, “because then I wouldn’t be getting it.” Winning a second career state medal was a good day for the Delton Kellogg senior. The Reed City junior, Michell, won four state championships becoming just the second girl ever to perform the feat. “Oh, my gosh. She’s incredible,” Polley said. “Oh, my lord. Seriously, she was like three hurdles in front of me. It was embarrassing, in the 100 and the 300. She was just booking it.” Michell won the 200-meter dash in 25.28 seconds. She won the long jump with a new Division 3 Finals Meet record of 18 feet 6.5 inches. Her first-place time of 13.84 in the 100-meter high hurdles broke the Division 3 Finals Meet record she set in 2011. She also broke her own Division 3 Finals Meet record in the 300-meter low hurdles, setting a new state record across all divisions with her time of 42.23. Maria Shoup of Mason County Eastern Delton Kellogg’s Andrea Polley (7) flies over a hurdle just behind Detroit Communication Media Arts’ Asha Lewis and Erie-Mason’s Paige Lipowski during their semifinal heat of the 100-meter high hurdles at the Division 3 Track and Field Finals in Comstock Park Saturday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) won four state titles at the 1979 Class D Finals, taking the 100-meter low hurdles, the 200-meter low hurdles, the 800-meter run and Delton Kellogg’s Ryan Watson takes his first shot at clearing 5 feet 10 inches in the high jump at the Division 3 Track and Field Finals Saturday at Comstock Park High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) the long jump. The rest of the day was filled with near misses for the local athletes. Maple Valley junior Keegan Yost was ninth in the shot put with a throw of 48-5. Reese’s Mitch Gilman threw 49-6 to earn the eighth and last medal in the event. Yost was also 12th in the discus. Yost’s teammate, senior Garrett Reid, flew 18 feet 6.5 inches on his first attempt at the long jump pit, where he earned a medal a year ago, but then scratched on his next two tries. He made the semifinals in the 100-meter dash. The Lions also just missed the medals in the 1600-meter relay, placing ninth. Delton’s boys were 14th in that race. Delton’s boys’ team also had Ryan Watson competing in the 800-meter run and the high jump, Brandon Robbins in the 110-meter high hurdles, and a team in the 800-meter relay. The other participants for the Delton girls’ team were the 1600-meter relay team and Jolene Drum in the 800-meter run. Drum finished just a second behind Maple Valley’s Jessica Rushford in that race, in 20th and 22nd place respectively. Rushford also competed in the 1600-meter run, placing 15th. The only other Lion girl at the event was Jadelyn Stewart, who cleared 8-4 in the pole vault. Michell scored all 40 of Reed City’s points on the day, earning a fourth-place finish for her team. Frankenmuth won the Division 3 state championship with 63 points. Benzie Central was second with 52, followed by Delton Kellogg’s Connor Wolschleger (right) stretches out to get the baton into the hand of teammate Adam May in the 800-meter relay during the Division 3 Track and Field Finals Saturday at Comstock Park High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Pewamo-Westphalia 45.25, Reed City 40, Bridgeport 33, Onsted 25, Manistee 21, Hanover-Horton 21, Adrian Madison 18, West Catholic 15, Hopkins 15 and Schoolcraft 15 in the top ten. Frankenmuth was powered by wins in two relays, the 1600-meter relay and the 800meter relay. The team of Lauren Peterson, Olivia Shelton, Angela Ritter and Emily Wee won the 1600 in 4:03.77. In the 800-meter relay it was Sydney Bronner, Shelton, Wee and Ritter finishing in 1:44.61. Schoolcraft’s Kara Craig won the high jump, clearing 5-6. In the other field events, Rebecca Cousineau from Leslie won the discus with a throw of 124-8; Kayla Deering from ElktonPigeon-Bay Port Laker won with a mark of 41-8.25; and in the pole vault PewamoWestphalia’s Kirstie Wieber took first by clearing 11-7 with Lansing Catholic’s Hannah Sailar also clearing 11-7 to finish second. The only other record-setter in the meet was Manistee’s Annie Fuller, who won the 800-meter run in a new Division 3 Final Meet record time of 2:13.03. Kimberly Balls of Bridgeport won the 100meter dash in 12.48, was second in the 200 to Michell, and teamed with Shondrea Matthews, Octavia Myles and Ce’Aira Richardson to win the 400-meter relay in 50.22. Benzie Central’s Theresa Warsecke won the 1600 in 4:57.59, and teamed with Alyssa Bennett, Makayla Huddleston and Bryce Cutler to win the 3200-meter relay in 9:37.97. Other winners in the girls’ meet included Leroy Pine River’s Devyn Powell in the 400meter dash (57.77 seconds) and HanoverHorton’s Lindsey Burdette in the 3200-meter run (11:01.29). Lansing Catholic won the boys’ meet with 68 points, followed by Union City 45, Frankenmuth 31, Reed City 27, HanoverHorton 24, Muskegon Oakridge 23, Niles Brandywine 21, Clare 20, Morley-Stanwood 20, Benzie Central 16, Almont 16 and Warren Michigan Collegiate 16 in the top ten. Lansing Catholic won three relays and two other individual state titles. The team of Joe Marrah, Austin Winter, Jimmy Hicks and Zach Zingsheim opened the day with a time of 8:01.27 in the 3200-meter relay to win a state championship. Zingsheim would go on to win state titles in all four of his events, taking the 800-meter run in 1:55.97, teaming with Matt Macksood, Hicks and Conner Caporale to win the 1600-meter relay in 3:24.63, and teaming with Caporale, Macksood and Cedric Lee to win the 800meter relay in 1:29.73. The Cougars’ also had Dan Liesman take the shot put with a throw of 54-5. Chris Maye from Union City won the 100meter dash in 10.87, the 200-meter dash in 21.85, and teamed with Aaron Watson, Josh Holton and Zach Smith to win the 400-meter relay in 43.64. He was also second in the long jump, flying 21-10.5. Dillon Wood from Lakeview won that event with a mark of 224.5. Maple Valley’s Keegan Yost watches a throw fly during the shot put competition at the Division 3 Track and Field Finals Saturday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Hastings heads to its fourth straight regional golf tourney From left to right: David J. Heeringa, D.O., Orthopedic Surgeon; James L. Horton, Jr., D.O., Orthopedic Surgeon; Eric S. Leep, D.O., Physical Medicine; Kenneth S. Merriman, M.D., Orthopedic Surgeon. People. Passion. Technology Phone 269.945.9520 / Toll Free 800.596.1005 02709451 Welcome to Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, your musculoskeletal experts close to home. We specialize in the Art of Total Orthopedic Care, Physical Medicine, and Pain Management. We provide the highest degree of service in an efficient, personal, and professional manner. Our focus is to maximize the health, function, and quality of life of the population we serve. Hastings is headed to regionals again. The Saxon varsity boys’ golf team placed fourth at Thursday’s Division 2 District tournament at The Emerald in St. Johns to qualify for this Thursday’s Regional Tournament at Gull Lakeview West Golf Course. It is the fourth straight season the Saxon team has qualified for the regional round of the state tournament. The Saxons will be joined there by Thornapple Kellogg’s Ben Jazwinski, who finished as one of the individual regional qualifiers from the district tournament. The top six teams and top six individuals not on those teams at the district tournament earned spots in the regional. DeWitt took the day’s championship with a score of 313. The Panthers were followed by St. Johns with a 323, Haslett 333, Hastings 340, East Lansing 342, and Ionia 360. Behind the top six, Wayland shot a 363, Lansing Waverly 385, Thornapple Kellogg 389, Fowlerville 392, and Lansing Sexton 415. DeWitt had the day’s top two golfers. Tyler Polulak shot a 73 and teammate Peter VonSpreeken added a 75. DeWitt also got an 82 from Courland Nelson and an 83 from Owen Byer. Haslett’s Chris Beltzer, Hastings’ Danny Buehler and St. Johns’ Zach Peters were the only other golfers under 80 on the day. Beltzer shot a 77 and Buehler and Peters each scored a 78. Behind Buehler for the Saxons, Dylan Thurman and Fredrik Isgard each shot an 87 and Taylor Klotz added an 88. Jazwinski shot a 91 to lead the Thornapple Kellogg team. That 91 was the cut-off for the regional qualifiers. Jazwinski’s teammate Alex Koetsier was one shot off with a 92. TK also got a pair of 103s from Josh VanSickle and Justin Bergstrom. The other individual regional qualifiers included Wayland’s Evan Hollorman and Alec Pawloswski who shot an 85 and an 87 respectively. Fowlerville’s Scuyler Gullett and Jason Howell from Waverly each shot an 89, while Waverly’s Tatu Kyyroenen matched Jazwinski’s 91. Keep your friends and relatives INFORMED! Send them The BANNER To subscribe, call us at... 269-945-9554 � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-06-14.pdf 13c2c9b6beed9852b4a01d34bb698cd3 PDF Text Text City seeks opinions on smoking in parks County’s health is in crisis mode Viking boys, DK’s Wandell return to golf finals See Story on Page 3 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 17 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 24 NEWS BRIEFS Author Gary Schmidt to speak in Hastings Friday evening, June 15, award-winning author Gary D. Schmidt will speak at the Barry Enrichment Center at 7 p.m. His visit is the culmination of the Hastings Public Library’s fifth anniversary celebration. The event is free. Schmidt is the author of a number of nonfiction books and young adult novels. In 2005, he won a Newbery Honor and Printz Honor for Lizzie Bright and the Buckminster Boy. In 2008, he won the Newbery Honor for The Wednesday Wars, which is in large part autobiographical. He is currently a professor of English at Calvin College and lives on a farm in Alto with his wife and six children. Attendees are encouraged to pick up tickets ahead of time so staff can estimate attendance. Father’s Day car show is Sunday More than 1,000 vehicles are expected to be exhibited at the 31st annual Father’s Day Car Show at Historic Charlton Park in Hastings, Sunday, June 17. The event is sponsored by the Southern Michigan Street Rod Association, featuring door prizes, cash prizes, and 42 other awards. The show also will include music, festival food and a swap meet with more than 100 vendors. Show hours will be 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., rain or shine. The awards ceremony begins at 3 p.m., and participants must be present to win. Additional information can be found online at www.charltonpark.org or by calling 269-945-3775. The recreation area will be closed that day. South Charlton Park Road, from M-79 to River Road, will be closed from 5:30 a.m. to 10 a.m., except to residential and event traffic. Residents and event visitors may proceed northbound only on Charlton Park Road. BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, June 14, 2012 County veterans affairs director on leave following investigation by Doug VanderLaan Editor Almost like waking from the same bad dream, Barry County Commissioners learned at their meeting Tuesday that, for the third time in four years, they may again be victims of employee fraud. “We have evidence and admission that it has occurred,” County Administrator Michael Brown commented to commissioners in describing four discovered instances of improper use of funds by the administrator of the Veterans Affairs Committee, a three-member, county-appointed board that hires its own administrator to distribute federal, state, and county fund money to honorably discharged and indigent veterans. Though Brown informed county commis- sioners that the administrator had been placed on unpaid leave Friday morning, he did not identify the employee in his public remarks. Commissioner Robert Houtman confirmed after the meeting that the employee in question is Holly Steiner who is listed in the Barry County Directory as the authorized agent for the Veterans Counsel/Trust Committee and Soldiers Relief Commission. Steiner declined comment after a call was placed to her home on Wednesday afternoon. Though an investigative audit will be ongoing, Brown said the funds in question total $1,966, used improperly on four occasions, dating as far back as late 2010. The timing of the allegations made Tuesday’s public announcement even more uncomfortable. Just three weeks ago, the board received a stellar audit report from its accountant Rehman Robson of Grand Rapids. In his remarks at that meeting May 22, Stephen Blann, principal of government/nonprofit services for Rehman, termed the county’s record keeping as “clean and unqualified, the highest level of assurance that we can give during an external audit.” “[County Clerk] Pam Jarvis got a tip on Thursday,” related Brown, “and we spent that afternoon and evening investigating it. On Friday morning, we notified the sheriff’s department and the prosecutor’s office. On Friday, I also met with the administrator who admitted to the four instances identified. “We then engaged the Walker Fluke and Sheldon company to do an internal audit of the program to see if we need to look back See INVESTIGATION, pg. 13 Consultant unveils plan to balance school budget Cuts proposed for coming school year by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer “Nip it in the bud.” That is the advice financial consultant Don Sovey repeatedly gave the Hastings Area Schools Board of Education during a budget overview he presented at the board’s monthly work session Tuesday evening. According to Sovey, the district will end its 2011-12 fiscal year with a $875,861 shortfall in revenues, leaving the district $535,081 in the red as of June 30. “The point here is [the $535,081 deficit] starts increasing geometrically if you don’t nip it in the bud early,” he said. “So, how can we nip it early on to give you two to three years of financial peace? Correct it in the 2012-13 year; [the next two] years will fall into place.” Sovey presented long-range projections indicating that, without a deficit-reduction plan, the deficit would continue to increase until the districted ended its 2014 -15 fiscal year with a $2,178,005 shortfall resulting in a $3,697,292 deficit. However, Sovey said if the district “nips it in the bud the first year” by establishing a deficit-elimination program, the district could end the 2014-15 fiscal year with a positive balance of more than $1.1 million despite a projected $578,005 shortfall in revenues. The deficit-elimination plan calls for a $1.6 million budget reduction during the 2012-13 fiscal year. Proposed reductions include: Turning lunch/breakfast supervision over to food service, $77,784; reducing general elementary paraprofessionals, $71,000; reducing compensation at all levels, $23,625; reducing middle school band repairs, $1,000; eliminating middle school department budgets, $2,500; reducing contracting services for band by eliminating seasonal instruction, $15,000; reducing repairs to high school band equipment, $1,000; reducing alternative education supplies, $4,000; reducing the purchase of alternative education equipment, $1,000; middle school special education service to other district due to student returning to district, $22,000; data director moved to Title II grant, $11,250; licensing high school alternative education moved to At Risk grant, $17,575; reducing miscellaneous equipment repairs, $20,000; eliminating Business Industry and Education meeting costs to be assumed by community partners, $2,000; reducing miscellaneous expenses for executive administration, $600; reducing secretary overtime, $9,275; reducing repairs to equipment, $2,000; limiting high school athletics to one-way transportation, $7,000; eliminating new cameras for buses, $46,000; reducing technology coordinator repairs to equipment, $3,635; reducing technology coordinator miscellaneous supplies, $1,000; absorbing two elementary school teaching positions through attrition, $130,000; moving athletic trainer and coaches to Professional Education Service Group, $16,000; reducing cell phones for maintenance and transportation, $2,000; eliminating special maintenance position, $58,000; eliminating central receiving position, $62,000; reducing all building budgets by 25 percent, $95,976; reducing compensation or position, $1.6 million, for a total reducing $2,303,220. Sovey said that many of the reductions did not mean the elimination of services or personnel but rather funding from alternative sources, such as grants, or being moved to areas of the budget. Hastings Area Schools Interim Superintendent Michelle Falcon said some reductions are already in the works. As of July 1, all Community Recreation and Education Center and child care staff would also be PESG, which would eliminate retirement costs for those employees, consolidating food service with a neighboring school district, and more. Larry Cook, director of the district’s maintenance department, and Robin Girrbach, one of two long-time maintenance employees being laid off by the district, during the pub- Deadline nearing for Country Showdown Monday, July 2, at 5 p.m. is the deadline to submit contestant entry forms to WBCH, 119 W. State St. in Hastings, for this summer’s Texaco Country Showdown coming to the Barry County Fair July 16 and 17. An official contestant entry form is required, available at Bosley Pharmacy, Walker Music and Textile Co., Thornapple Valley Community Credit Union in Hastings or Delton, and at Family Fireworks. All contestants should also go to www.wbch.com and click Country Showdown for local information and rules. Preliminary competition will take place at 7 p.m. Monday, July 16. Up to a dozen acts performing Monday evening will be invited back the next evening to compete in the local final. One act will be judged the winner and will go on to compete in the state final at the Ingham County Fair, where the prize for the winning act is $1,000 and the right to go on to one of five regional contests to determine who will win an allexpense-paid trip to the national final in Nashville, Tenn., where the grand prize is $100,000. further. The sheriff’s department, on its own, will be doing a criminal investigation.” Most commissioners are familiar with the routine. In July, 2008, deputy county clerks Jamie J. Holtman and Elizabeth Lapekes were sentenced to jail, probation and restitution payment after embezzling from a jury fund administered by the county clerk’s office. Though the two were required to pay a combined $26,000 in restitution, a local accounting firm determined that more than $64,000 had been taken from the fund over a period of years. In April, 2010, Hastings Airport Manager Jason Blair was arraigned on charges of Michigan Avenue Bridge begins to take shape The eight 100,000-pound concrete box beams placed throughout the day Friday help the new Michigan Avenue Bridge in Hastings begin to take shape. Construction of the bridge deck is expected to take two weeks. (For more photos, see page 20. lic comment portion of the meeting, expressed their dissatisfaction with the cuts to their department. However, the proposed cut that garnered the most discussion was the limited one-way transportation for high school athletes. The cost-reduction measure would mean buses would transport athletes and coaches to events in neighboring districts, but it would be up to the coaches, students and staff to provide or find their own transportation home from the event. Board Trustee Gene Haas said that every year he reads about students who are killed or injured returning from school sporting events and would rather put the $7,000 back into the budget to ensure the safety of student athletes. Despite the need to cut the budget, Sovey said the district will still have to spend money in certain areas, such updating its computer file servers. Technology Director Brian Osterink said the district’s servers are 8 years old. “We have one more hard drive to go and we won’t have a server,” said Osterink, who added that the district would borrow money to update the server over the summer. “It will take our current infrastructure from its current 1G back to about 10G, which will mean a lot more speed and services to the school.” Osterink said a quote for the update was $630,00 but is now down to $350,000. “This is something that could be helped by additional funding; but, of course you don’t have additional funding right now and this is the only way to keep that going,” said Sovey. The transportation department will lease five new buses to replace those that were redflagged during a recent inspection. The department also will receive software that will help the district save money by streamlining busing schedules. Falcon said every district that uses the software has been able to save money by eliminating at least two bus runs. “It pays for itself in the first year,” she said. Sovey closed his presentation recommending the following planning considerations: Develop a strategic plan for the district, conduct a facilities feasibility study, employ best business practices and hire a strong financial manager. He recommended the district look for a financial manager with CPA credentials and strong managerial skills. In other business, the board also approved a bid from Abraham and Gaffney for a threeyear auditing contract. The St. Johns firm entered the low bid, ranging from $18,900 for the 2012-13 fiscal year to $19,900 for the 2014-15 fiscal year, beating out the $25,820 for each of the next three fiscal years from Norman and Paulsen of Sturgis, which has had an auditing contract with the district for several years. The board will hold a public hearing on the proposed 2012-13 budget during its regular meeting at 7:30 p.m. Monday, June 18, in the multi-purpose room of Hastings Middle School. All Michigan school districts are required to pass a balanced budget before July 1. During Monday’s meeting, the board will discuss or take action on the following: The final amendment to the 2011-12 fiscal year budget; a transition plan in the wake of Falcon’s resignation (see June 7 Banner), policy committee tasks, personnel committee tasks and financing for improvements for the district’s technology infrastructure. �Page 2 — Thursday, June 14, 2012 — The Hastings Banner ‘Excellence’ a keystone for Delton Kellogg Class of 2012 by David DeDecker Staff Writer Delton Kellogg Schools celebrated the graduation of 97 students Sunday, June 10, in the high school gymnasium. The class of 2012 was congratulated for its pursuit of excellence which culminated in more than $1.1 million awarded in scholarships this year. Graduates entered the gymnasium in traditional cap and gowns, marching to the sounds of “Pomp and Circumstance” played by the high school symphonic band, minus its senior members. High School Principal Stewart Schofield told the audience, “Parents should be proud of this group of seniors, many of whom started as kindergartners in Delton Kellogg Schools, and have had many great successes. I am told by our counselors that this group in many ways set a record for the amount of money they have received in scholarships. I want to thank these class members for what they have done for Delton Kellogg High School.” Senior Michael Bassett stepped to the podium and began speaking of “dorky clothes and name tags” and other wonders of elementary school. Naps, according to Bassett, are needed more as seniors than as kindergartners. Megan Boulter spoke of awkward adventures in middle school. She remembered one teacher’s love of the Beatles and “Number 9,” and another teacher distracted by questions about baseball. Boulter also talked about the class trip to Chicago, Shedd Aquarium, malls, and a very slow Ferris wheel. She spoke about middle school dances with girls going one way and boys going the other. High school remembrances were Sarah Eddy’s topic for the day. She said in their four high school years, the track team won three Kalamazoo Valley Association championships, volleyball claimed four KVA championships, and the boys basketball team brought home a KVA title for the first time in 30 years. Eddy said the class has contributed 17 titles on the athletic banners hanging in the high school gym. The high school band also won many awards, she said, including a first place at the Smoky Mountain Music Festival in Tennessee. The DK Theatre Arts Company was nominated for nine awards for its productions. Eddy mentioned many more events that she said have left their mark on the community. She also remembered a member of their class who died earlier this year. Hannah Smith provided the class poem. She spoke of success, determination and opportunities. “I have two wishes for my class,” said Smith. “That no matter how hard life gets, no matter how hard it fights you, fight back. Never give up on life and all it has to offer. With that, you will find success and happiness. No matter what road you are on, hill you climb or path you take, I hope you always end up in the same place — learning.” Valedictorian Ryan Watson served as senior class treasurer this year and made the presentation of the class of 2012’s gift to the school. The class will replace the highly worn gymnasium letters that say “Welcome to Salutatorian Brian Wilder receives his diploma from Superintendent Paul Blacken. The Delton Kellogg Class of 2012 collectively celebrates graduation by flinging caps into the gym’s rafters Sunday afternoon. Delton, Home of the Panthers.” Tyler Vining picked up the microphone and walked to the front of the stage. He sang a moving rendition of “This is Not Goodbye” by the Sidewalk Prophets. Salutatorian Brian Wilder spoke about the role teachers, families and friends have played in the success of the class. He told a story of a teacher and her two daughters. The moral, said Wilder, was “to always be yourself no matter the outside pressures and influence.” He said many of his classmates will be on their own for the first time and must remember to stay true to themselves. Wilder offered this quote from Harvey Fierstein, “Never be bullied into silence. Never allow yourself to be made a victim. Accept no one’s definition of your life; define yourself.” As valedictorian, Watson returned to the podium and started by jokingly apologizing to all the kids whose homework he copied. Class of 2012 Valedictorian and Treasurer Ryan Watson presents the class gift to the school — new “Welcome to Delton, Home of the Panthers” letters for the gymnasium. Members of the Delton Kellogg Class of 2012 stand to receive their diplomas. “I would not have graduated without you,” he said. Watson said the biggest lesson he learned in high school was how to manage his time in order to accomplish so much, and the value of friendship. He thanked his classmates for making such a huge impact on his life and told them he knows they will accomplish great things. He also thanked his family, teachers and coaches for helping him keep his head up when he was sick of school and had no motivation. Watson also had a message for the board of education, saying it was very difficult to concentrate when other schools’ seniors had already graduated and there was still two weeks left for Delton Kellogg students. The DKHS Symphonic Band welcomed its seniors back one more time for the playing of “Nettleton” arranged by Johnnie Vinson. Superintendent Paul Blacken addressed seniors one last time. “People ask me sometimes, ‘How do you attend all these events?’ and I tell them, ‘It’s an expectation of the job. But, more importantly, it’s because of these guys,’” he said, pointing to the graduates. “It is because of the excellence I see. When I go to plays, band concerts, basketball games or volleyball and softball games, it’s because I enjoy it, and I enjoy it because our student body gives it everything they’ve got. It is a true joy to go to events when we see excellence. “They say today is a talent-driven society. If that is true, society better watch out. This group has a lot of talent.” Blacken said if he could boil down his advice for the class to one concept it would be “self-confidence,” which he says is the most important and most indispensable characteristic of success. “It is the common characteristic of great leaders whose talents may have varied widely in most other aspects. Self-confidence — a quiet self-confidence,” he said. “Not cockiness. Not conceit or arrogance. It is the key to winning and excelling, no matter what you do in life. But, in my experience, it will not be enough to get you through a career, in a life that will thrill you and not scare you. Senior Tyler Vining sings “This is Not Goodbye” by the Sidewalk Prophets. “First you must resolve to grow intellectually, morally, technically and professionally — every day in your work and family life. Be absolutely paranoid about the currency of your knowledge and ask yourself every day ‘Am I really up to speed or am I stagnating intellectually, faking it, or falling behind? Am I still learning or just doing the same stuff day after day? Starting tomorrow, you will start growing on your own. “Another way to build self-confidence is to seek out the toughest jobs. In these situations, your purpose is clearly before you when you wake up. There is nothing like survival to engage the mind. Difficult situations bring real purpose and resolve in decision-making. Graduating Senior Michael Bassett begins the class history with memories of elementary school. Megan Boulter followed with middle school memories, and Sarah Eddy concluded with remembrances of high school. “While there is nothing that builds confidence like winning against the odds, believe it or not, losing against great odds builds it as well. Most great companies love people who take big swings, even if they have to walk back to the dugout on a few occasions. Seek out the businesses, the technical challenges, the jobs and education that others are afraid to touch. The world will soon get to know you, and more important, you will get to know yourself. Seek a real purpose. Seek to make a difference. “There is one final attribute of self-confidence. The one attribute you must not fail to make your own: You must achieve the confidence of knowing that you possess absolute, unbending, unimpeachable integrity. Everyone must know that, above all else. It is integrity that defines your character. There may be a day in your career you are asked to go along with something ... when you are near the [ethical and moral] edge or line in the sand. You must have the confidence and courage to say ‘no.’ Then you can go home, look your family in the eye, and sleep like a baby. There is nothing more potent in any career than the ability to do that. “This is the simplest and best advice I can offer you. Grow your self-confidence and move quickly to repair it when damaged by the setbacks, failures and mistakes. Continue to grow intellectually and listen to the little voice inside you. Tackle the toughest jobs and challenges. Watch yourself do more, and learn more than you ever dreamed possible. Know your strengths and weaknesses. Don’t go a day without moving forward and working on them. Understand, whatever else may fail you, whatever bad luck or failure may befall you. Your personal integrity is always in your own hands and can never be taken from you.” Blacken and the board of education then congratulated the class of 2012 and distributed diplomas. Tassels were moved and caps thrown. The symphonic band played a recessional tune while graduates exited the gym. The Delton Kellogg High School Symphonic Band welcomes seniors back for a final playing of “Nettleton.” �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 14, 2012 — Page 3 City council wants constituents’ opinion on smoking ban in city parks by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Should smoking be banned in all city parks? Hastings City Council members are hoping their constituents will answer that question before the next regular council meeting at 7 p.m. Monday, June 25. Council members said response to the question will determine how they vote on a request from the Barry County Tobacco Coalition to designate all Hastings city parks as smoke-free. Members of the coalition attended the Monday, June 11, council meeting to give a presentation on smoking in Barry County and the smoke-free park initiative recently endorsed by Gov. Rick Snyder. Eric Pessell, coalition member and environmental health director for the Barry-Eaton District Health Department, cited statistics from several government agencies and polls regarding the effects of smoking and secondhand smoke in regard to Barry County. According to Pessell, cigarettes accounted for 68, or 14 percent, of the 487 preventable deaths in Barry County in 2009, more than AIDS, alcohol, automobile accidents, illegal drugs, murders and suicides combined. He also said that the same year, nine deaths were attributed to the effects of secondhand smoke. Pessell said the Michigan Department of Community Health estimated that from 2007 to 2009 25.6 percent of residents in Barry County smoked while the state-wide adult smoking rate in 2010 was 18.9 percent. He added that in Barry County, 23.3 percent of pregnant women in 2009 reported smoking, compared to 18.2 percent statewide. “This is why our coalition was formed and this is why we have some concerns,” said Pessell. “... last year’s survey, 21 percent of our 11th graders indicated they had smoked a cigarette in the last 30 days.” Pessell said studies have shown that levels of secondhand smoke outdoors can reach the same levels attained indoors, depending on the direction and the amount of wind and the proximity of smokers. “Tobacco use in outdoor areas where youth congregate sends a negative health message,” said Pessell. “What we’re really here for tonight is to focus on our youth — that 11th grade, 21 percent, is what really concerns us. We know the folks that are older that are lifelong smokers, while they still can quit and it would benefit them healthwise, we know that they have been smoking and they are now addicted to that. But, if we can now just stop our youth from trying even one cigarette, we can lower that 21 percent. We can get it lowered and eventually lower our overall rate, which will make us a much healthier community ...” Having smoke-free parks in Hastings, he said, would have three benefits: Protecting the public from exposure to secondhand smoke; protecting children from tobaccorelated litter, such as cigarette butts which can be toxic if ingested by small children; and modeling healthy behavior that the community wants young people to emulate. “Are we looking to keep smoke out of our parks, or are we looking to keep people out of the parks who smoke?” asked council member Barry Wood. “I know the answer. But, with our action here, what are we pushing?” Wood said that even if the city banned people from smoking on city sidewalks and streets, people would still smoke. Council member Jeri DePue reminded fellow council members that last year they had told the management of Hastings Manufacturing that the city was not going to make its parks smoke-free. Mayor pro-tem Brenda McNabb-Stange said that even with the statistics cited by Pessell regarding the concentration of secondhand smoke outdoors, it is still preferable than indoors, and she is afraid the next step would be individuals or organizations requesting a smoking ban on all city sidewalks, streets and public areas. “We’re are looking for the balance of where our youth recreate and congregate ...” said Pessell. “You can’t go to a high school football game and smoke, but I went by Fish Hatchery Park and saw a little league game going on. There’s nothing stopping those people from smoking in those stands. There’s nothing stopping people from smoking with a child sitting right next to them and being exposed to this.” “Isn’t that a parent issue?” asked council member Don Bowers; “smoking in front of their children?” Pessell replied that even if the parents don’t smoke, they see other adults smoking in parks. McNabb-Stange agreed with Bowers that teaching young people not to smoke is a parental duty. “Just because my kid sees somebody else smoking doesn’t mean I shouldn’t talk to him about it and say, ‘That’s their choice, but it’s not a healthy thing to do...’” she said. She added that while many health risks are associated with smoking, it is not for the city to impose restrictions on people. Bowers said there should be a way to prevent children and others from being exposed to secondhand smoke, but keeping smokers out of the parks isn’t the way to do it. DePue asked how the coalition would propose the city enforce a no-smoking policy in parks. Hastings City Manager Jeff Mansfield said it would be voluntary. The city would post a sign stating that smoking is prohibited in city parks, but it would be up to park visitors to police their own behavior. Council member Bill Redman said that while he agrees with the coalition as an individual, as a council member, he does not. “Me, as a council person, to tell you, or her, that she can’t smoke in city parks ain’t going to happen. Sorry,” he said. “... If we really want to be a community where people want to come and want to live and be as healthy a place as we can be, then having an ordinance that doesn’t encourage smoking in parks is really an important part.” Sheryl Lewis Blake, Pennock Hospital CEO McNabb-Stange said that while she would support any reasonable campaign to stop smoking, she did not want to be the person to tell someone that he or she is not allowed to do something that is legal. Pessell questioned why it is okay to tell people they could not drink alcohol in city parks but not to tell them they couldn’t smoke. “So they don’t get drunk and attack you,” said Bowers. “It’s a safety issue. Isn’t this a safety issue?” asked Pessell. Bowers said that what the coalition was trying to do was get the government to regulate the behavior of people in the community. “That is not the way to go about it,” he said. “Get to the parents and the children. Evidently we are not doing a good job, or you wouldn’t be here.” “We can assist parents ...” said Pessell. Council member David Tossava said many of the people who use the city parks do abuse them and leave cigarette butts on the ground. “But, can we regulate it? No,” he said. Pessell asked the council if it would consider making just one park smoke-free. “Should they be smoking down at Fish Hatchery Park during little league games? They can’t smoke on the high school campus, or the elementary...” he said. DePue said most people police their own smoking at baseball games. “People don’t light up in the stand because everybody else would get mad,” she said. “So, they go off and they smoke by the street. Kids are still going to see them, but they are not breaking any rules standing by the street. There is no way to police this.” DePue said she is a smoker and she smokes on the front porch of her house. “Soon it’s going to be you can’t smoke within 30 feet of a public sidewalk,” she said. “We’re not asking for that,” said Pessell. “Not today,” said Bowers. Coalition member Sheryl Lewis Blake, the CEO of Pennock Hospital, said the hospital treats people who suffer from the effects of smoking and secondhand smoke, such as cancer, heart disease and other cardiac and pulmonary ailments, and a recent community health assessment, compiled with the help of 19 county agencies indicated that three key health issues face residents of Barry County — access to health care, obesity and tobacco cessation. She said the first logical step in addressing those issues is helping youths learn healthy behaviors. “It’s not so much to make a statement that, ‘Oh, we don’t like smokers,’ and go against smokers’ rights,” she said. “But, if we really want to be a community where people want to come and want to live and be as healthy a place as we can be, then having an ordinance that doesn’t encourage smoking in parks is really an important part.” Redman said that while the majority of council members may agree with Lewis Blake and Pessell, “We have the responsibility to the entire city and I think that you would find that we don’t feel that we have the right to tell people they can’t smoke. We can tell them that we think it is a dumb thing to do. We can tell them that it’s bad for their health. But, to tell them that they can’t do it. I think we are stepping over the lines of what our responsibility is.” “Bill, I respectfully disagree with you, because you are each an elected official, and you need to represent the best of the future of the organization as our community entity, and being able to do the right thing isn’t always the most popular thing,” said Lewis Blake. “I think if you asked persons, I am actually an ex-smoker myself, you don’t want children to smoke ... There’s a huge difference between parks and sidewalks, guys — huge difference.” Coalition member Don Werme said banning smoking in city parks would also have a beneficial economic impact for local employers because the health issues associated with smoking would decrease and could lead to lower health insurance premiums. “If we have a healthy community, we have healthy employees that are productive,” said Werme. Mayor Bob May said he believed that if the council were to vote that night, he would be the only member to vote in favor of the ban. Redman suggested the council table the requested ban until its next regular meeting to allow members to talk to their constituents about the proposal and base the decision on what they learn from the public. The council unanimously approved the motion. “There is a possibility that our constituents will go 100 percent behind this [smoking ban in city parks], and that’s what we need to find out,” said Redman. “That’s our responsibility. We need to find out what’s going on out there.” According to the coalition, municipalities and other governing agencies that have banned smoking in parks include Eaton County, Traverse City, Greenville and more. In other business, the council: • Held a public hearing on and approved the final assessment roll for the 2012 downtown parking special assessment district. There was no public comment, and the motion to approve the assessment roll was passed unanimously. The special assessment district funds a portion of the cost of maintenance of the downtown municipal parking lots. • Adopted a Statement of Support for Guard and Reserve, which states the city values the skills and seeks to hire and employee members of the Nation Guard and the Reserves. • Approved the construction of a new sixunit hangar at the Hastings City/Barry County Airport and an amendment the airport budget, increasing revenues by $80,000 to reflect funds received from a donor for the construction of the hangar and amended the budget, increasing expenditures by $206,550 to cover the cost of the low bid for the construction, which was awarded to Steadfast Construction, as requested by a request from the airport commission. • Conducted a second reading and adopted an ordinance revising regulations for access ramps for individuals with physical disabilities. The motion to approve the ordinance passed by a 6-1 vote, with council member Dave Jasperse dissenting. The new ordinance rescinds the previous general law ordinance approved regulating the ramps and established new regulations within the zoning ordinances, which allows the zoning administrator to vary setback requirements as needed to allow the construction of the ramps. • Held a first reading on a draft ordinance that would allow the keeping of up to four hen chickens in the R-S and R-1A (single family residential) areas within the city. The keeping of chickens is currently limited to rural residential zones. The council is slated to hold a second reading and make a determination on the ordinance during its June 25 meeting. • Held a first reading on a draft ordinance regarding wall signs on accessory buildings in commercial and industrial zones. The city’s current ordinance only allows for signs on the principal buildings in those zones. The council will hold a second reading and make a determination on the proposed ordinance during its June 25 meeting. • Appointed Mansfield as officer delegate and Hastings City Clerk/Treasurer Tom Emery as the alternate officer delegate for the annual Municipal Employees Retirement System conference. • Awarded a bid to A-1 Asphalt in the amount of $69.10 per ton for top course and base course for an estimated total of $11,747 for the East Thorn Street water main project, as recommended by Hastings Department of Public Service Director Tim Girrbach. • Authorized May and Emery to sign an amendment to the real estate agreement with Goodrich Quality Theaters for the purchase of the vacant lot east of Hastings 4 Cinema to allow construction of the proposed spray plaza to include the six-inch strip immediately adjacent to the east wall of the cinema; which was originally omitted from the agreement. • Authorized May and Emery to sign a building exterior improvement program development agreement with Ricky and Cynthia Esther for Old Towne Tavern. • Approved and authorized May and Emery to sign the annual contract for construction code administration and enforcement services with Tom Thompson and Glenn Stoneburner. Barry County sheriff’s captain under investigation Capt. William Johnson of the Barry County Sheriff’s Department is now on administrative leave as a team of officials investigates what has been called a personnel, or conduct, issue. Johnson is in charge of the Barry County Jail and is a law enforcement veteran of 34 years. No details were available from the Barry County Sheriff’s Department. Sheriff Dar Leaf was unavailable for comment while attending an out-of-town conference. Undersheriff Bob Baker said he had “no comment.” Fridays at the Fountain debuts for the summer More than 100 Fridays at the Fountain listeners gather on the Barry County Courthouse lawn to listen to bluegrass gospel, country and folk music from Sweet Grass June 8 — the first in the 2012 summer concert series sponsored by the Thornapple Arts Council and the City of Hastings. Upcoming free Friday performances at the fountain start at noon. Hastings sculpture tour opens Friday “El Fishbird” by Blissfield artist Kenneth M. Thompson stands on the corner of Church and State streets in downtown Hastings. The City of Hastings, Hastings Downtown Development Authority and the Thornapple Arts Council are once again joining forces with the Midwest Sculpture Initiative to present a year-long sculpture exhibit in downtown Hastings featuring 23 works of art. The public is invited to attend the official opening of the exhibit from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, June 15. In addition to an opportunity to view the sculptures, both old and new, six local music acts will perform at various downtown venues from 6 to 8 p.m. The 11 sculptures leased from the MSI for display from June 2012 to May 2013 were selected by an advisory committee of more than 40 local residents, artists, art instructors and enthusiasts. Twelve of the sculptures on this year’s tour have been donated to the Thornapple Arts Council and City of Hastings for permanent display. The downtown sculpture exhibit began in 2009 when the Hastings DDA leased a sculpture from MSI for a six-month installation as part of the creation of a rest and reflection area behind Hastings City Hall. The sculpture was purchased by a member of the community and donated to the city to be put on permanent display downtown. In 2010, the DDA expanded the outdoor exhibit to include 11 sculptures leased from MSI. Before the 2010 exhibit was installed, additional sculptures, separate from those leased from MSI, were installed, bringing the total number of works of art on display to 17. By the end of the 2010 exhibit, 10 more sculptures had been purchased and donated to the city for permanent display. The 2011 exhibit featured 22 sculptures, including the 10 donated to the city and one donated to the Thornapple Arts Council and now on permanent display downtown as well as 11 new sculptures leased from MSI. This year’s exhibit features 23 sculptures, including one donated to the city in 1988 and installed next to the Arts Hatchery Building in Fish Hatchery Park. Since 2009, the community has donated $92,000 in sculptures to the city. In addition, the city has earned $7,300 in commissions on the sales and purchase of the MSI sculptures on exhibit and received a $10,000 grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation to support the program. These numbers exceed the DDA’s initial investment of $15,000 for the three previous funding years. More than $20,00 in additional private donations were received during the 2011-12 fiscal year to assist with the development of a permanent sculpture plaza/planter area for the piece “Avian Ascent” and for the powder coating of “Radiolaia II.” �Page 4 — Thursday, June 14, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Photo snap This good-size snapping turtle was seen meandering along M-43 south of Delton last week. She (or he) stopped just long enough to smile for the camera before continuing on into the tall grass. (Photo by Bonnie Mattson) We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Do you know? Hot dog formality Do you recognize any of these people? The woman on the left is holding a purse with initials ‘R’ and possibly ‘I.’ The plates in the photo have hot dogs on them. The cups are paper. The clothcovered table is adorned with flowers, lighted candles — and at least one bottle of ketchup. The photo was by Spielmacher Photos in Grand Rapids, and the man on the far left was apparently cut out from another photo and taped into this one. Do you have any idea why this photo was taken? Where? What can you tell us? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event to reunite the photos with their original clippings or identify photos that may never have been used. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, 49058; email news@j-adgraphics.com; or call 269-945-9554. Last week’s photo of a canoe, clothing and other items on display in the east gym at Hastings High School (now the middle school) was recognized by both Barb Smith and Harry Garrison, county residents and former 4-H members, as a 4-H achievement Have you day from the early 1950s. Although we cannot find a published copy of that same photo, an April 24, 1952, Banner headline noted, “695 entries viewed at the 4-H Spring Achievement Event.” “The Hastings High gym Thursday afternoon was turned into a miniature furniture show, a gown salon that would have brought sighs of envy from Old Paris and a veritable wonderland of handicraft created through long hours of work during the past winter months. “Entries totaling 695 were place for viewing Friday evening and Saturday morning and the gym — the largest exhibition hall in the county — was not big enough ...” met? Mike Evans works for the Hastings Public Library in circulation, but his main passion is community building. Evans is a founding member of the Barry County Green Team, a collaboration of individuals, businesses and agencies interested in sustainability and the environment. The first project he worked on was recycling. The most recent project concerned oil and gas leases (and possible fracking) in Barry County and the informational meeting held at Pierce Cedar Creek Institute, which attracted more than 200 concerned citizens. He works on the EPillar of Hometown Partners, which promotes entrepreneurship in Barry County. He strives to promote sustainability best practices within the business community, and positive growth. Evans is also involved in the Arts and Eats project, which he said grew out of the Barry County Tourism Council. Evans said the group was interested in economic development but more interested in how grow and support a sustainable local economy to keep local dollars circulating locally. He and his family are also supportive of buying locally and seasonally. favorite films was ‘The Matrix.’ Favorite music: The Grateful Dead. Best advice: My wife is always telling me, “You can only do what you can do, and you will never please everybody.” Those are two things I have a real hard time learning and I am constantly relearning. If you could give somebody one thing: A generous heart. If you were president: I have always had this idea that if there is a minimum wage, there should also be a maximum wage. I have never played it completely out, but if we could somehow get a buttress on either end of that spectrum and keep everyone a little closer together as far as income and equality. If you could have a super power: I always thought if I could be any animal in the world, I would be a flying squirrel. Then I could have the best of both worlds. I could be fast and agile, but I could also fly. Mike Evans Favorite book: Henry David Thoreau’s Walden and Mark Twain’s Huckleberry Finn. Favorite movie: Recently, one of my Each week, The Banner profiles a person from the community working behind the scenes, whose efforts may not make headlines, but whose dedication makes Barry County shine. We’ll provide a quick peek each week at some of the Barry County area’s stars. Do you know someone who should be featured? Send information to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@jadgraphics.com. Barry County’s health is in crisis mode Everywhere we turn, health tops the list as one of the most important issues facing our nation. As part of the national Health Reform Affordable Care Act, nonprofit hospitals like our local Pennock Hospital are now required to prepare local health assessments as part of their responsibility to maintain a nonprofit status with the IRS. As we continue to debate the possibilities of national health insurance, Congressional leaders are focused on the general health of the nation. And from all reports we have become a nation at risk. In the 2008-10 Behavioral Risk Factor Survey released by the Barry-Eaton District Health Department, 26.6 percent of the county’s adults were estimated to be obese, and another 34.9 percent were overweight. The report confirmed that females were more likely to maintain a healthy weight than males, while younger adults were more likely to report a healthy weight than older adults. Local health department officials warn that obesity can increase the risk of many diseases and health conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, coronary heart disease, stroke, sleep apnea, arthritis, gall bladder disease, high cholesterol and some forms of cancer. The National Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that 29.4 percent of Michigan adults are considered obese, while children came in 41st, at 12.4 percent childhood obesity rate. A local health department report shows Barry County with a 36 percent body mass index, or BMI, compared to 32 percent statewide, while the national measurement is at 25 percent. What is causing the rapid increase locally and statewide? “When people don’t have the funds for a proper diet, what they tend to do is eat the wrong foods, which are the cheapest foods,” said James Trosko, MSU professor of pediatrics and human development. But is it the lack of funds determining what people eat or is it the poor choices due to a lack of motivation and education on the consumer’s part? Most experts agree that a number of issues are driving the increase in poor health. People are eating fewer fruits and vegetables, they’re snacking more, eating larger portion sizes and increasing the consumption of sweetened drinks — all while eating out more often and preparing processed and quick-to-serve meals. Families are also spending more time watching television, playing video games and computers while getting less physical activity. So what are we do? Recently the mayor of New York, Michael Bloomberg, proposed a ban on large-size sugary beverages in his city. “If you eat more than your body burns, you will get fatter,” Bloomberg said. That’s why he’s asked the New York Health Board to approve a ban on soft drinks larger that 17 ounces. Was he really serious about the ban, or was he focused on making an impact with his proposal? Bloomberg is a businessman — I think he used the idea to draw attention to a serious problem. Following his announcement, the mayor became a guest on late-night television shows and was interviewed by many national television commentators. The ability to purchase large drinks was on the lips of every New Yorker, some questioning, “Who does he think he is?” Was he overstepping his authority or was the mayor more interested in getting the attention of consumers over an issue impacting his city and state? Some even viewed the issue as the mayor overstepping his authority by taking away their freedom to choose. According to our local health depart- What do you Last week’s question: New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg has proposed a ban on sugary soft drinks or over 16 ounces in size to reduce obesity rates and increase public health. Are you in favor of such a ban? Yes No “When people don’t have the funds for a proper diet, what they tend to do is eat the wrong foods, which are the cheapest foods.” James Trosko, MSU professor The statistics speak for themselves. If Barry County expects to see any dramatic changes in the overall health of its citizens, then it must prepare a plan of action to reduce the population of obese adults — young and old alike. According to the eighth annual “F as in Fat: How Obesity Threatens America’s Future 2011,” a report released from the Trust for America’s Health, Michigan is the 10th most obese state in the nation. The report said, “Adult obesity rates increased in 16 states in the past year and did not decline in any state.” In Gov. Rick Snyder’s state of the state address, he warned legislators about Michigan’s increasing health issues, and announced a public-private partnership to help parents, doctors and communities learn more about nutrition. To show his support, he pledged to lose at least 10 pounds. Snyder and Bloomberg realize if they expect to see any significant changes in their calls to better health, they must stick their own necks out to lead the change. Otherwise, issues impacting poor health will continue to stall any growth in the coming months. It’s all about leadership, education and accountability. If we expect to see change, then we must promote every individual’s responsibility for their own personal health. As the nation focuses on the debate over a national health care plan, we have to carefully consider its cost. Mayor Bloomberg and Gov. Snyder, as well many congressional leaders, are concerned with who is going to foot the bill. I believe, that as agencies across the country report their individual findings, we will realize that we are a nation with risky health habits. If we expect a national health program to work, then all of us must focus on personal health — especially if our poor health habits add exorbitant costs. The additional burden will prove the taxes we pay into the system cannot cover the health services we need. If our country expects to provide a national health system, then it must develop a plan to make Americans healthy, or we will bankrupt a system already drowning in debt. Last week’s Reminder included an advertisement for a free community health fair at the Gun Lake Medical Center. They’re offering health information, medication review, blood pressure checks and more. If you need help, ask for it and in most cases, you’ll find it. In the end, it’s up to each of us to be on guard, exercise, eat right and get the necessary amount of sleep needed each day. Fred Jacobs, vice president, J-Ad Graphics think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website, www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week. Feel free to leave an opinion or comment. 20% 80% ment report, Barry County is ranked 70th among Michigan’s 83 counties for poor health behaviors. We’re 57th in clinical care, 32nd in health factors, and 25th for health outcomes. For this week: Some municipalities, including the cities of Detroit and Zeeland, have outlawed the sale of synthetic drugs, most commonly known as Spice and K2, because chemical properties contained in them can cause mindaltering episodes and also lead to harmful physical effects. Should these synthetic drugs, sold over the counter throughout Barry County, be banned locally? q q Yes No �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 14, 2012 — Page 5 IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV Sheriff showing lack of cooperation To the editor: What’s up with Sheriff Dar Leaf? Isn’t he supposed to serve the people who elected him? It’s time to use a little common sense. When a volunteer group, the Animal Shelter 2000 Committee, raised $150,000 toward a new animal shelter as it did a few years ago on land donated by a concerned citizen, you can bet the group didn’t do this to provide a nice place to kill unwanted or abandoned pets. They did so to give the Barry County Humane Society the wherewithal to allow innocent animals a chance to join loving families and live out their lives in joy and happiness. The sheriff is on the wrong side of this debate, and it’s making him and his department look uncooperative and mean-spirited. John E. Mantle, Hastings Shelter stands; but promises are broken To the editor: The Barry County Board of Commissioners is taking the issue of saving the lives of adoptable pets at the county animal shelter seriously. Help is desperately needed as an intervention to fix what is obviously not working. The citizens of Barry County have not seen results, and promises are still being broken. It is absolutely not acceptable for the county, as some have suggested, to “stay out of the adoption business,” and to continue to needlessly kill 70 percent of the pets that enter the shelter each year. According to the Michigan Pet Fund Alliance, four cats and dogs are euthanized at the shelter on average every day — and 46 percent of those are puppies and kittens under 6 months of age. How — and why — does the county shelter kill seven out of 10 animals it takes in? Members of the Barry County Animal Shelter Advisory Board are frustrated and have witnessed constant refusal by the sheriff, his representative and staff under his direction to communicate, cooperate, include, return respect and abide by state and federal laws ... The list of failures is long and has been witnessed by citizens, organizations within the humane community, members of the press and commissioners. The facility was built on a foundation of community caring and donated dollars — with the promise of inclusion and accounta- bility. Operational costs for the Barry County Animal Shelter are funded through tax dollars, and citizens also donate thousands each year through in-kind contributions and donations to the Barry County Animal Control Donation Fund, the purpose of which is to improve the quality of life of animals in the shelter. It is simply unacceptable to keep the shelter in the past with a fossilized management plan that didn’t work then and certainly doesn’t work now. Change is long overdue, and it is time for a qualified director under the direction of the board of commissioners to deliver results to the community. Citizens and humane messengers have found themselves continually being shut out and shut down, but the animals are the real victims here. Lost, abandoned and homeless pets need community involvement to make that change for them and do what is right so they can be adopted into homes. If you want to see change and save the lives of adoptable pets, please attend the board of commissioners meeting at 9 a.m. Tuesday, June 19, at the courthouse located at 220 W. State St., Hastings. Your attendance of support will be the voice of reason for the animals who cannot speak for themselves. Julie Baker Richland Animal Rescue Barry County Advisory Board Member Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. Changes needed Parade is no place for campaigning at Animal Control To the editor: I am writing this letter to ask the county commissioners and the community to change our present Animal Control facility to a more compassionate animal shelter, where animals have at least a fighting chance of being adopted. It is now controlled by Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf, and he has said time and time again that he is there to control animals, not to adopt them out. Well, the time has come where this must change. The sheriff has shown an unwillingness to work with animal advocates for the past few years, and so now the time has come to hire a director who will not only handle animal control and enforce the dog laws, but will also allow volunteers to help with the adoption of the animals that are not claimed by their owners by calling rescue groups, taking good pictures to put on Petfinder and creating inventive ways to adopt out these animals to good homes. We need to reduce the euthanasia rate and increase the rescue rate of adoptable pets – plain and simple. The new animal shelter was built in the year 2000, with donated money from the Barry County Humane Society to the tune of $30,000-plus. The county forked over another $150,000 toward the total cost of $300,000, so many dedicated volunteers, including then Barry County Sheriff Steve DeBoer, spent countless hours collecting the other $120,000. The land was donated, too, so for a total sum of $150,000, the county got a building and property valued at approximately $400,000. When these volunteers collected this money, the donors were promised not only a new and nicer facility in which to house the homeless animals, but also that more emphasis would be placed on the adoption of animals. This has not happened and the killing numbers are very high compared to the rest of the counties in the state. So, we have not only let down the animals that are unlucky to go into this “shelter” but we have also let down the generous donors, as well. Everyone who cares about what happens to these animals that cannot speak for themselves should get to the commissioner’s meeting in the courthouse at 9 a.m. Tuesday, June 19, to show support for a change at Animal Control. Citizens also should call their county commissioner and urge them to vote for the much-needed change. Anneliese Brown, Hastings SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN Blockbuster stars ride into retirement sunset by Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Summertime is here, and that means blockbuster movies are in season. This summer — and throughout the end of the year — moviegoers can catch some of the usual heroes on the silver screen. Take Batman. He’ll be back on the big screen in another surefire blockbuster. The superhero first gained fans in the comics back in 1939. He could be taking advantage of delayed retirement credits — the power to receive bigger payments for delaying retirement benefits beyond full retirement age. The credit could be worth as much as 8 percent a year until age 70. Learn more about this super power available to anyone at www.socialsecurity.gov/retire2/delayret.htm. Then there are the marvelous superheroes of the silver age of comics, several of whom are appearing in “The Avengers.” Captain America was born in 1941, making him not only fit for leading but also ripe for retiring. The Hulk and Thor both came onto the scene in 1962; Iron Man and Nick Fury joined them in 1963. They, along with 1962’s Spiderman (also enjoying a movie reboot this year) don’t qualify for retirement benefits yet, but they might want to plan ahead by taking a look at the online Retirement Estimator at www.socialsecurity.gov/estimator, where they can get an instant, personalized estimate of future retirement benefits. From Batman to Spiderman, Captain America to The Hulk, making a decision to retire does not mean hanging up your costume. Today’s retirees are more active than ever, even as they collect benefits. If you’d like to learn more about your own future retirement benefits, take a break from the big screen and take a look at your computer screen. Visit www.socialsecurity.gov/estimator to receive a picture of your own future retirement. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. To the editor: I always thought and celebrated Memorial Day as the day our country honored our loved ones who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country. It is the time when we praise those who served in our armed forces. This Memorial Day weekend, I visited some friends in the Hickory Corners area and attended the parade their in honor of this special day. It disturbed me when Tom Evans, the current prosecutor of Barry County was actually there campaigning for his re-election to the office of prosecutor. Where was his patriotism on this special day? Evans was more interested in himself than those who have served our country with honor and pride. How dare he take away from the moment that our thoughts should be of those who really deserve the attention on that special day? From what I have read in the Banner in the past, Evans should be voted out of the office of prosecutor due to his lack of leadership, knowledge, compassion and integrity. At no other parade or gathering did I hear of political candidates being part of the parade or even campaigning during these precious times and gatherings. If this is the type of person who is seeking re-election to the office of prosecutor, then Evans would not be my choice for that office, to serve the people of Barry County. Julie Nakfoor-Pratt served in the past as prosecutor of Barry County, along with serving in Allegan County as an assistant prosecutor. She did so with honor, integrity, knowledge, caring, wisdom and fairness. The August primary is when the citizens of Barry County will have their say in what direction our county is headed as to the peace and safety of its citizens. I would encourage all registered voters in Barry County to cast their votes for Julie Nakfoor Pratt in August. Anne Lockman, Middleville Animal Control battles mar county’s image To the editor: In a recent Banner, Fred Jacob’s opinion was headlined, “For the good of animals, sheriff should give up shelter management.” I would suggest that, for the good of the whole community, the sheriff should relinquish control of a job responsibility about which he is obviously ambivalent. The constant brouhaha surrounding Animal Control is terrible for the reputation of Barry County. A business thinking of locating in Hastings or elsewhere in the county considers many aspects, among which is whether people work together for the common good. In the matter of Animal Control, it’s constant dissension. In my view, it’s a moral imperative that we treat kindly the weak and vulnerable – human or animal. Surely in the case of Animal Control that means a robust effort toward more adoptions and less euthanasia, a policy that appears to be completely opposite the sheriff’s goals. Why he clings to a part of his job that causes him so much trouble is mystifying. It would seem that he would be eager to part with it and cooperate with an amicable transition. With all due respect, Animal Control is not his strong suit. The June 19 county board meeting (9 a.m. at the courthouse), when we are told the commissioners will be considering alternatives, is an ideal opportunity for him to put personal considerations aside and act in the best interest of the people who elect him. Dorothy Flint, Hastings Bill for county taxpayers is growing To the editor: The May 24 issue of the Banner, under the headline “Motion for Terpening case to be dismissed is denied” there are two details that should be of great interest to every resident of Barry County. First, Michigan state Assistant Attorney General Angela Povilaitis was in the courtroom – representing Barry County. Second, the defense’s dismissal motion on the grounds of due process stemmed from allegations of witness tampering, specifically, by the Barry County Prosecutor’s Office. We have never been given a credible explanation as to why the State took over this case. The only enlightenment Prosecutor Tom Evans has put forth is that he or members of his staff might be called to testify in this court case. Of course, he and perhaps members of his staff will be called as witnesses if they are coercing, threatening or manipulating a witness. What will this farce cost Barry County taxpayers? A private defense attorney estimated the fees for this type of case typically runs between $50,000 and $75,000. That’s a lot of money, but the costs to Barry County likely will be even higher since there is the matter of litigation in the family court, which will require the services of another attorney, which we will have to pay for. Ask your county commissioner to demand the prosecutor’s office give us a realistic cost estimate for this ridiculous situation. Unless AAG Angela Povilaitis and the family court attorney work for free; the taxpayers will be looking at a huge legal bill when this case is closed. Ronald McCord, Delton It’s time for a director at animal shelter To the editor: This letter is in response to what has been reported or printed in opinion pieces in regard to the Barry County Animal Shelter. Up front, I want to inform you that until recently I sat as a member at large on the committee. I submitted my resignation, stating personal reasons. I left with regrets, since I felt that the committee is very much in favor of doing the best for the animals at the shelter and also with a very strong desire to be good stewards of the people’s funds. A very wise woman once said that every animal that ends up at the shelter is there through no fault of its own. I sometimes think that we are licensing the wrong animal. Perhaps it would be more effective if owners had to be licensed to have a pet. There are way too many examples of people who should never be allowed to have a pet. That is all over, not just Barry County. The examples are often reported in the media. Those are only the ones reported, and many authorities believe that there is a reasonable expectation of a very large number that are hidden and not reported. I have seen numerous reports of a quote attributed to Albert Einstein, that the definition of insanity is doing the same thing, over and over, hoping for a different result. In my opinion, that applies to how we as a county are approaching management of our animal shelter. It really is time to change what we are doing in regard to the management of the shelter and the manner in which we try to adopt animals into good home surroundings. I believe that all of us as county citizens need to insist that we back up to the time that many good citizens got together and through fundraising and donations, a new shelter was built to replace the poor, pitiful excuse for a shelter we previously had. Generous people in our community made it possible to build the new shelter, as well as the funding from the taxpayers. To this date, donations are made to help operate the shelter, and also many kind souls request that at their death, memorial donations be made to the shelter. We need to respect the taxpayers and those donating, by changing the way we manage the shelter in a way that can produce more adoptions and much less euthanasia. I feel it is responsible to state that some animals turned in to the shelter or picked up by animal control cannot be adopted due to behavior or health problems. Regulations must be abided by in this regard. I am stating my opinion, and that of others, that it is time for a qualified animal shelter director, under the direction of the county board, be found to bring our shelter forward with the goal of more adoption into homes. William F. Norris, Dowling The Hastings Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Bonnie Mattson • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 �Page 6 — Thursday, June 14, 2012 — The Hastings Banner GET ALL THE LOCAL NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. Area Obituaries Elizabeth V. “Betty” Worley Worship Together… Earl B. Eggleston Richard “Dick” C. Quinn 77568642 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. CHURCH OF THE LIVING GOD A full gospel church. 1240 W. State Rd., Hastings. Pastor Doug Davis. 269-948-9740. Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study 6 p.m. Sunday School and Youth Group for all ages. Come and worship the Lord with us! . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. ORANGEVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH 6921 Marsh Rd., 2 miles south of Gun Lake, Plainwell. Phone 269664-4377. OrangevilleBaptist.org. Pastors Dan Bowman and Adam Parmenter. Sundays - 9:45-10:45 a.m. Sunday school classes for age 2 through adults; 11 a.m. Summer messages: “God’s Ten Words For a Vital Spiritual Life” (The Ten Commandments); 5:30 p.m. Teen Word of Life Club; 6 p.m. “Guard the Gospel” A study of 2 Timothy. Wednesdays - 7 p.m. prayer; 8:30 p.m. Men’s Bible Study. MondayFriday - July 9-13 - 9:30 a.m.-noon, Vacation Bible School, age 5-7th grade with Uncle Al Torres - RBM Minstries. Sunday, July 15 - Guest speaker, Dr. Eldon Stevens. Sunday, August 19 - Summer concert. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Rev. Ryan Wieland. Sundays - 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Service; Sunday School and Nursery available during both services (Summer Schedule - Adult Sunday School: 9 a.m., Worship & Children’s Programs 10 a.m.) Youth Group, Covenant Prayer, Choir, Chimes, Praise Band, Quilting Group, Community Breakfasts and more! Call the church office at (269) 721-8077 (M/W/F 9 a.m.-12 p.m.), e-mail office@mei.net or visit www.countrychapelumc.org <http://www.countrychapelumc.org/> for more information SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 9:15 Contemporary Worship, 10:30 a.m. Refreshments, 11 a.m. Traditional Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Youth Pastor, Eric Gillespie. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. for children and youth, and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Junior & Senior High Youth Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Mid-Week Pioneers and adult classes return in September. Thursday: Senior Adult Bible Study at 10 a.m. and lunch at Wendy’s, 11:30 a.m. Vacation Bible School: Wed. & Thurs., July 25 & 26, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Sunday, June 17 - Summer Hours Begin. Worship at 8 and 10 a.m. June 14 Men’s Alcoholics Anonymous 7 p.m.. June 18 Spiritual AA at 7:30. June 19 Pennock Hospice Memorial Service at 6-8 p.m.. June 23 - Vacation Bible School Decorations & Team Meeting 9-12 a.m. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 945-2645, fax 269-945-2698. Pastor Amy Luckey. http://www.discovergrace.org This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Fiberglass Products 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 Maxine Eloise Linsea FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot.com. Friday - 9 a.m. Pickleball; 9 a.m. Golfer’s Group Meets. Saturday 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday - 9 a.m. VBS; 6:30 p.m. Softball Game; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Tuesday - 9 a.m. VBS. Wednesday - 9 a.m. VBS; 6:30 p.m. Financial Peace University. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 . Lauer Family Funeral Homes HASTINGS, MI - Elizabeth V. “Betty” Worley, age 89, of Hastings passed away Friday, June 8, 2012 at Thornapple Manor in Hastings. She was born November 8, 1922, the daughter of William and Nina (Peterson) Holdridge. Betty attended school in Hinsdale, NY, where she met Alvin Jackson and became a wife and mother. She worked as a waitress at Court Street Grill in Hastings for eight years and at the Plainwell truck stop for four years. In earlier years Betty worked at a bar in New York and ran a little store in a small town in Michigan. Betty loved to play Bingo. She enjoyed going to flea markets where she sold her homemade towels. Betty loved baking peanut butter cake for grandkids. She enjoyed playing jokes on people and was always the life of a party. Betty also enjoyed getting her hair done and nails painted at the Manor. She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Nina Holdridge; stepfather, Morgan; brother, Clare Holdridge; two sisters, Katherine Lute and Diane Jackson; daughters, Loraine Clayson and Elaine Clayson; grandson, Harvey Mohr; and brother-in-law, Nick. Betty is survived by a son, Andrew Jackson of New York; daughters, Naomi (Cookie) Crystal and Dan Hines of Lake Odessa, Anita Man of Battle Creek and Linda Clayson of Delton; and many grandkids and friends. Betty will be sadly missed by her children, family and friends. She was a good mom. The family wishes to send a special thank you to Thornapple Manor for the great care that was given to their mother. A graveside visitation and service was held Tuesday, June 12, 2012 at Prairieville Township Cemetery, Prairieville. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message to the family. 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 MIDDLEVILLE, MI - Earl B. Eggleston, age 88, of Middleville, passed away Tuesday, June 12, 2012 at his residence. He was born September 21, 1923 in Grand Rapids, the son of Henry J. and Ann (LeVine) Eggleston. He attended Hastings High School. Among the highlights of his career, he was manager of City Food and Beverage; chef at Pleasant Point Restaurant and later with Carriage House Restaurant in Hastings; manager of Beacon Motel in Grand Haven and an insurance executive in Madison, WI, retiring in 1985. Earl was a World War II veteran of the African and Mediterranean Campaign. From 1943 - 1945 he was stationed on the USAHS Shamrock Hospital Ship. He married Ellen Suzanne Johnson on November 2, 1946. Earl was a member of American Legion Post #45. He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Ann Eggleston; brother, Bob Eggleston and sister, Marie Finkbeiner. Earl is survived by his wife, Ellen “Sue” Eggleston; daughter, Cynthia and son-in-law, John Carlson; son, Alan and daughter-in-law, Katherine Eggleston of Middleville and Grand Rapids and four grandchildren, Rob, Tonya and Randy Carlson and Hilary Eggleston; three great-grandchildren, Brendan and Aidan Carlson of Middleville and Nicholas Carlson of Tacoma, WA. Memorial contributions may be made to the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan, 1169 Oak Valley Dr., Ann Arbor, MI 48108-9674. Visitation will be held Thursday, June 14, 2012 from 10 until 11a.m. at the Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. The funeral service will immediately follow visitation at 11 a.m., with Fr. Richard Altine, celebrant. Burial will take place at Mt. Calvary Cemetery with full military honors provided by American Legion Post #45 in Hastings. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message to the family. to life. She didn’t let things get her down. She loved life and was loved for it; her motto was "don’t sweat the small stuff." After retirement, Maxine enjoyed visiting her “sister-like” cousin, Georgia and family in California. The girls were “famous” for cutting up and enjoying each other’s company immensely. Maxine enjoyed working at the VA hospital (Percy Jones) in Battle Creek during WWII where she met many dignitaries and celebrities including Eleanor Roosevelt. she clerked at the McWilliams “five and dime” stores in Grand Rapids and Middleville and waitressed at the Middle Villa restaurant in Middleville DELTON, MI - Richard "Dick" C. Quinn, of Delton, passed away June 7, 2012. Dick was born February 6, 1935 in Downpatrick Co. Down, Northern Ireland, the son of Richard and Mary (Mason) Quinn. A veteran, Dick became a United States citizen in 1958 and proudly served his country in the United States Army. A founding member of the Delton Chamber of Commerce, Dick owned Delton Floor Covering for many years and was a loyal employee of Kellogg's, retiring in December 1993. A proud member and president of the Liars Club of Venice, FL, Dick was also a member of Saint Ambrose Catholic Church, Delton. Dick loved to work, but most of all, he loved his family. On August 25, 1960, at St Philip, Battle Creek, Dick married the love of his life, Mary (Huard), who survives. Dick is also survived by his children, Linda Miller of Delton, and Mike (Anne) Quinn of Trenton, MI; a brother, Jerry Quinn, of England; sisters, Anne Curran and Madeline Fitssimmons, both of Ireland; grandchildren, Amber, Quinn, Kelly, Lacey, and Ryan; a great grandson, Bryson; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, and six brothers and four sisters. Dick's family received friends, Sunday, June 10, with a vigil service at Saint Ambrose Catholic Church, 11137 Floria Road, Delton. Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Monday, June 11, 2012, at Saint Philip Catholic Church, 112 Capitol Ave, Battle Creek, Rev. Fr. Bill Remmel, celebrant. Burial took place at Fort Custer Cemetery. Memorial contributions to Siena Heights University, 1247 E. Siena Heights Dr, Adrian, MI 49221, or Saint Ambrose Catholic Church will be appreciated. Dick's family is being cared for by the Williams-Gores Funeral Home, Delton. Please visit www.williams-goresfuneral.com to view Dick's online guest book or to leave a condolence message for the family. where she enjoyed her job and socializing with friends for many years. Maxine graduated with the class of 1936 from Battle Creek High School and attended every class reunion until the age of 90. She was a lifetime member of the Eastern Star for 50 years and moved to Breton Village Green Apartments in Grand Rapids after her retirement residing there 25 years. Her final two years were spent at Crystal Springs Lifehouse Center in Grand Rapids. The family has honored Maxine’s wishes of cremation without a service. Memorial contributions may be made in Maxine’s name to a charity of choice. Robert Smith Maxine E. (DeLong) Linsea passed away peacefully in her sleep early morning Saturday, May 12, 2012 at the age of 93. Surviving are her four children and spouses, Ronald Perdue of Sacramento, CA, Suzanne Smith of Grand Rapids, Michael (Roz) Linsea of Shelbyville, and David (Lori) Linsea of Middleville. She was known as Grandma “Magazine” to some of her nine grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. “Auntie Max” is survived by a nephew, David (Susana) Spitzer of Miami, FL and a cousin (sister), Georgia Smith of Clear Lake, CA and several nieces and nephews. Maxine was born November 6, 1918 and raised in Battle Creek in a working class home by Victorian era parents, Guy and Carrie DeLong who preceded her in death. Also preceding her in death were her husband, Vincent Linsea; sister, Violet Spitzer, and good friend, Eric Marti. Maxine lived a full life and made an impression wherever she went. She was the “other mother” to many and was well known for her truthful and “tell it like it is” approach MIDDLEVILLE, MI - Robert Smith, age 82, of Middleville, passed away Sunday, June 10, 2012 at his home after a short battle with cancer. Robert was born May 29, 1930, the sixth child of Howard and Ilah Smith. He was raised in the Middleville area, graduating from Middleville High School in 1950. Bob worked at Bradford White Corporation for 39 years, retiring in 1992. He was skilled as a welder and a journeymen maintenance-repairman. He also was a founding member of Founders Community Credit Union. On May 15, 1953, he married Shirley Welton, who survives him. He is also survived by a son, Howard (Judy) Smith of Freeport; and daughters, Roberta (Lee) Wieringa of Middleville, and Marcia (Gregg) Luedke of Hastings; grandchildren, Rene' (Aaron) Dykstra, Angela Smith, Art Smith, Wendy Wieringa, Chris (Lisa) Wieringa and Sarah (Jeff) WieringaSierawski; great grandchildren include, Quin and Charlotte (Dynamite) Dykstra, Andrew and Claire Sierawski, Shyanne Wieringa, and Kolby Smith. Also surviving are several brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews. Robert was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Arthur; and sisters, Eleanor, Ruth, Lucille, and Margaret. A funeral service will be conducted Thursday, June 14, 2012 at 11 a.m. at the Beeler-Gores Funeral Home with Pastor Alan Moody officiating. Interment will take place at Mount Hope Cemetery. Memorial contributions to Hospice of Michigan will be appreciated. Please visit www.beelergoresfuneral.com to view Bob's online guest book or to leave condolences to the family. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 14, 2012 — Page 7 Middleville Planning Commission to take up chickens debate BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY by Gerald Stein NORTH N: 7 5 4 3 M: K 9 8 7 L: A 5 3 K: K 2 WEST EAST N: K Q 6 M: 10 6 4 2 L: K 8 4 K: 7 5 4 N: 10 9 M: Q J 5 3 L: 7 6 2 K: Q J 9 6 SOUTH: N: A J 8 2 M: A L: Q J 10 9 K: A 10 8 3 Dealer: West Vulnerable: None M Lead: 2M North East South Pass M 1M N 3N L 4L L 5L Pass Pass Pass Pass Pass Pass Pass L 1L N 1N K 4K 4NT N 6N West Pass Pass Pass Pass Pass Pass Captain M. North surveyed the deck of his pride and joy. The Barry County Bridge Barge was all set to leave shortly from the Charlton Park Pier. What was he missing? Or who was he missing? This nagged at the captain as he set about aligning chairs and tables for the trip down the mighty Thornapple River for the weekly cruise and bridge tournament. Just then two of the bridge players prepared to board the BCBB for the afternoon’s session. Rosy and Vera, two experienced players, were bouncing up the gangplank. “Oh, Captain North! We are so glad to see you!” Captain North looked up with a smile. “Of course! Rosy and Vera! Where have you two been the last couple of weeks? We all missed you and your bubbling personalities.” “Captain North, you say that to all of the ladies,” retorted Rosy. But the Captain could see that they were happy to be back. “Where have you two been recently?” he asked. The Captain realized too late that he had asked the fatal question. Now he was a captive as Rosy and Vera pulled up empty chairs, and he knew that they would tell all. He shrugged and smiled. “Fire away,” said the Captain. “Oh, Captain North, we have had the best vacation ever!” started Vera, with a huge smile. “We left Barry County for the northern-most regions of the Upper Peninsula.” “Da Yooper!” giggled Rosa, and they broke into laughter. Captain North waited. “Yes,” interjected Rosy, “we wanted to play bridge in another state so we went to the Upper Peninsula to a huge bridge tournament near a town called Escanaba. You may have heard of it?” Before the captain could respond, Vera said, “Youbetcha!’ and they again broke into peals of laughter. Regaining their composure, Vera and Rosy continued with their northern adventure. “We went to the north to play in the WUMBA tournament. It’s an old Indian word for Wisconsin Upper Michigan Bridge Association, and they run the tournament for a week up there. Can you imagine?” The Captain sat still. “Well, we had a wonderful time, and we found one bridge hand that we just had to share with you. Here it is,” and Rosy pulled out today’s hand. “The bidding was quite extraordinary as you imagine, Captain North.” “Yes,” said Vera, “imagine getting all the way to a six spade contract with that hand, eh?” The Captain looked over the hand in question. “Hmmm…the North-South team doesn’t seem to have enough points for a small slam hand. How did they…?” But he was too late. Rosy and Vera were ready for him. “Captain North, we will tell you how it happened.” M for an opening lead. South took the AM M, having made her plan. There looked “West led the safe 2M to be definite losers in the spade trump suit. Wouldn’t you agree, Captain North?” asked Rosy. The Captain could only nod. L, the 10L L, and the JL L finally capturing “From then on, South was in charge all the way. She led the 9L L with the AL L in the dummy. South then played the KM M and threw away the good QL L. Imagine West’s KL that!” said Rosy. K and played a small club from her hand. She led a small “Then, Captain North, South called for the KK N. She then led the AK K from her hand and played heart from the dummy and trumped it in her hand with 2N K from her hand and trumped it on the board with the the small club from the dummy. She then led the 8K N She then led the 9M M from the dummy and trumped it in hand with 8N N.” Here Rosy paused to catch 3N her breath. Her eyes were dancing with excitement. Vera continued, “This is the best part, Captain North. Did you notice South has not drawn one trump yet?” Captain North could only nod. “South then led her last club planning to trump on the board. West N, QN N, and 6N N. If she trumps with the 6N N, then South will call for the 7N N on is in a predicament with KN the board. So just what did West do, Captain North?” N and took the trick, but now The Captain waited. Rosy jumped in immediately. “West put up the QN N, with everyone following to she is in a no-win situation. She was stuck in an end-play. She led the 6N N which won the trick. South’s AN N took the 12th and final trick, making the six spade small South’s JN slam! How about that, Captain North!” The Captain rose from his seat. “Congratulations, Rosy and Vera. Who of you played South on this hand?” They both began to giggle immediately. “Oh, Captain North, neither of us played that hand. We found it on the hand records after the tournament, and we thought you might like to hear about this hand that we didn’t play.” They broke into laughter. The Captain was speechless. “Oh Captain. We also stopped at Fort Michilimackinac once we crossed the bridge. We wanted to enlist in the British army, but they told us we were “trolls” because we lived under the bridge, and that we couldn’t cut the mustard. I think they were wrong.” Both Vera and Rosy started laughing again. The Captain walked away shaking his head once again. “Welcome back, Rosy and Vera,” was all he could muster. Recent answers to Bridge questions: “To cut one’s leg off” in bridge lingo means that your opponents have won a game and your part score was eliminated. “A Golden Fit” in Bridge lingo means that you and your partner have an eight-card or more trump fit. ***** Today’s question: What does it mean to “cut the muster”? ***** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) Call anytime to place your Hastings Banner classified ad Brian Scott McKeown, Hastings and Amber Marie Welton, Hastings. David Allen Roper, Sunfield and Beverly Anne Brown, Delton. Zachariah Russell Schaefer, Wheatfield, IN and Erica Joy Bare, Hastings. Donald Ray Hilton III, Middleville and Krystal Nichole Rabley, Muskegon. Alexander Philip Sleeman, Otsego and Kaylee Joy Vanengen, Caledonia. Garett Micheal Whitcomb, Bellevue and Charlene Jo Everitt, Bellevue. Christopher Scott Sayer, Middleville and Jessica Hope Taylor, Kalamazoo. Jason Lee Broadhurst, Plainwell and Colleen Nicole Kanet, Plainwell. Joshua Richard Backus, Charlotte and Melinda Timberly Burns, Hastings. Kendall Williams Kinney, Paw Paw and Jessica Ann Grigsby, Wayland. Daniel James Culhane, Freeport and Harlei Rose Holford, Lowell. Adam Christopher Cook, Nashville and Brittney Lynn Eaton, Nashville. Justin Michael Payne, Cloverdale and Colleen Marie Miller, Cloverdale. Jordan Taylor Lee Bumford, Nashville and Ona Maria Antonia Leffew, Nashville. Cody Lee Ward, Hastings and Shyanne Danielle Mays, Hastings. Maxim Barnaby Howell, Wayland and Aleshia Ann Haselden, Hastings. Ooms to celebrate 50th wedding anniversary Bernie and Sue Oom of Freeport, Michigan will celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary on Saturday, June 16, 2012. They have three married children, Thomas and Laura Middaugh, Wayne and Kate Oom, and David and Sarah Oom. They also have seven grandchildren and one on the way. Bernie and Sue were longtime residents of Hastings where Bernie taught school and coached. The couple met through Sue’s brother, Tom, who attended Western Michigan University with Bernie. Dennis-Wilcox Pamela Minor turns 90 Pamela Minor celebrated her 90th birthday on June 3, 2012. Braelyn Dennis would like to announce the engagement of her mom and dad, Mercede Marie Dennis and Colby James Wilcox. Proud parents are Jack and Shilo Taylor of Nashville, Brian and Lila Dennis of Hastings and Ron and Tammy Wilcox of Hastings. The bride is a 2011 graduate of Hastings High School and the groom is a 2010 graduate of Hastings High School. A July 2012 wedding is being planned. Newborn Babies Olivia Frankie-Laveigh, born at Pennock Hospital on May 17, 2012 at 8:31 p.m. to Joe and Carrie Burns. Weighing 10 lbs. 7 ozs. 21 1/2 inches long. ***** Rayn Alexzander, born at Pennock Hospital on May 31, 2012 at 7:21 a.m. to Kayla Evans of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 1 oz. and 21 inches long. ***** Tron David, born at Pennock Hospital on June 2, 2012 at 3:48 p.m. to Samantha Price and Adonis Shepard of Hastings. Weighing 6 lbs. 3 ozs. and 19 inches long. ***** Emmalyn Elouise, born at Pennock Hospital on June 1, 2012 at 7:56 a.m. to Andrea and Justin Linsea of Middleville. Weighing 7 lbs. 14 ozs. and 21 inches long. Olivia Gayle, born at Pennock Hospital on June 1, 2012 at 3:09 p.m. to Jessica and Jason Mays of Lake Odessa. Weighing 6 lbs. 5 ozs. and 19 inches long. ***** Ryan Patrick, born at Pennock Hospital on May 31, 2012 at 5:01 p.m. to Alan and Megan (Lavell) Klein of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 12 ozs. and 20.5 inches long. ***** Kayson Bentlee, born at Pennock Hospital on June 1, 2012 at 1:29 p.m. to Jenna Denton and Tyrone Burkes of Nashville/Battle Creek. Weighing 6 lbs. 15 ozs. and 19 inches long. ***** Nathan Raymond, born at Pennock Hospital on May 30, 2012 at 1:34 a.m. to Abigail and Joshua Fust of Nashville. Weighing 7 lbs. 13 ozs. and 20 inches long. 269-967-8241 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 77568328 Ray L. Girrbach Owner/Director by Julie Makarewicz staff writer Would-be chicken raisers will have to wait a little longer before they’ll know if their flocks can take roost within the Middleville village limits. The village council sent the issue to the planning commission for further study and review. The next planning commission meeting is July 3. Stacey and Ruben Campos requested the village consider amending zoning ordinances to allow chickens in backyards of at least some residential lots in the village. Stacey Campos told council members she wants to be able to have her own fresh eggs and doesn’t believe having chickens will be a detriment to neighbors. She and her husband proposed several conditions that could be imposed including restrictions on the number of chickens allowed and distance from neighbors. “Chickens do not take up a lot of space, and you will hardly know they are around,” said Campos at the Tuesday committee of the whole meeting. She reminded the council that chickens are allowed in big cities like Traverse City and even in New York City in certain areas. “Across the street, my neighbor has horses and pigs, but I can’t have a few chickens,” she said. Current village zoning ordinances do not allow livestock unless the property is in an agricultural zone. Catherine Getty, zoning administrator for the village, said in her review that Thornapple Township allows chickens on lots in residential zoning districts that have an area of at least 20,000 square feet. The City of Hastings, she reported, also allows chickens in lots of at least 15,000 square feet. The Campos live in Bryanwood Estates and their lot is zoned for residential use. Stacey Campos said she has talked to many of her neighbors and said she’s gaining much support. Council member Ed Schellinger said he has received just the opposite opinions from polling his neighborhood. “Overwhelming, the majority of people I spoke with said absolutely not. They did not want chickens in the village,” he said. Schellinger said he’s also concerned that if chickens are allowed, the village may be setting a precedent and in the future be asked to expand to allow ducks, geese and even small goats. “If we say yes to chickens, where does it stop?” he asked. In other matters before the committee of the whole: • The committee will recommend the council approve a contract with Williams & Works to update the village master plan at a cost of $1,600. Council will consider the proposal at its June 12 meeting. • Heard concerns and questions from Gene Benting, owner of Tender Loving Car Wash. Benting recently purchased the business and said he has concerns and questions about where his tax dollars go, what he gets for the money paid, and why his water bill increases so drastically. Village Manger Rebecca Fleury will set up a meting with Benting to explain and review the issues. • Committee will recommend to council at its June 12 meeting approve a request for proposals for a single waste hauler contract within the village. The current contact expires Dec. 31, 2012. The village has 750 residential users. Marriage Licenses ® The TWO BROTHERS AND A TENT For All Your Tent Rental Needs 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 • Tables and chairs available. 269-945-3252 Serving Hastings, Barry County and Surrounding Communities for 45 years Call: Dan McKinney 269-838-7057 or Tom McKinney 269-838-3842 •Traditional and Cremation Services •Pre-Planning Services Large Parking Lot - Handicap Accessible • Serving All Faiths • •Pre-arrangement Transfers Accepted www.girrbachfuneralhome.net 77564841 Family Owned and Operated 77566915 �Page 8 — Thursday, June 14, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa by Elaine Garlock Coming soon, the Lake Odessa Fair with dates this year June 26 to July 1. The Lions Club has chosen Bill and Jewel Eckstrom as grand marshals for this year’s parade. The Eckstroms have been residents since 1956. In the intervening years, Bill was a teacher and coach for two years, high school principal for 1 1/2 years and superintendent for 30 years. He began and ended his career in mid-year in the top school spot. In the first years, he still had one foot in the family farming business, with onions grown on Grant muckland his summer priority. After that, he confined his growing prowess to a fine garden on the family lot on MacArthur Street. His post-school years were spent in a partnership with builder Bill Bulling as they developed the Willowbrook condos and Pineview Drive. Hydrangea bushes are at their best right now. The row of roses that grace the front of First Congregational Church are showing their annual beauty with peach colored blooms on the south half and a variety of colors north of the front entrance. Elderberry bushes in town are doing well. Those in the country, especially along streams and ditches, should be at about the same stage of growth. Strawberry growers are advertising for pickers now, and they say the season will be short. Sunday was the final time in the pulpit for Rev. Eric Beck at Central United Methodist Church. The Beck family will be moving to Jackson. Rev. Karen Sordan will move into the Sixth Avenue parsonage. She received her final ordination Saturday at the conclusion of the annual session of West Michigan United Methodist as they met at Calvin College. At the close of Sunday’s service, Lay Leader Von Goodemoot listed the program initiated during the Beck pastorate. Chairman of the Pastor-Staff committee Tony Barcroft presented the outgoing pastor a gift of a custommade stole, bearing original designs copied from motifs in the stained glass windows of Central church. The stole was designed by Lori McNeil, and produced by her mother, Carole Reiser, using liturgical colors for the appliques. Other parting gifts were a copy of the book Pure Lakewood and a John Wesley Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of bobblehead. The antiques sale at the Lake Odessa Fairgrounds Saturday and Sunday brought a throng of patrons. Saturday’s sale was geared to dealers. Sunday’s sale was directed to lay buyers. Admission was charged each day. The Ionia County Genealogical Society has a new book in the process. A book on the county veterans of the Korean Conflict has gone to the printers after months of work by Bonnie Jackson, who also edited the World War II book with a great number of veterans and others who did not survive. .The Lake Odessa farm and garden market is open at the fairgrounds each Friday and Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. between Fourth Avenue and Jordan Lake Avenue. The United Methodist Women of Central United Methodist Church had their annual trip day Monday. They shared transportation in private vehicles for a trip and tour of Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park. They also enjoyed lunch together. The Ionia County Commission on Aging has several events coming. Their summer picnic meal will be June 21 in Lake Odessa at Lake Manor. Call 527-5365 for reservations. This noon meal will feature traditional picnic fare. The Ionia Theater has a weekly travel movie sponsored by the Ionia Historical Society. The big event for today is Girls’ Night Out in downtown Lake Odessa with many exhibits, information booths, prizes, discounts and trolley rides along with music by the Pacific Lite group. Many local churches are touting their summer Bible school programs. Member of the Garlock family Friday attended the funeral of Joseph Helman, 91. He was known in Lake Odessa as an auctioneer, with farm auctions and antiques his specialty. The Helmans had four generations of auctioneers with Joe and son David the latest in the line. Music ranged from a double quartet of Mennonite neighbors singing hymns, a vocal rendition of the Marine hymn to a country-style recording of “The Auctioneer’s song. Tackitt to retire from health department Steve Tackitt, health officer with BarryEaton District Health Department, will retire after six years with the department. He also plans to transition from active leadership in other local, state and national public health organizations. Tackitt holds a master’s degree in public health, is a registered sanitarian, and is recognized as a diplomat of the American Academy of Sanitarians. He joined the health department after 36 combined years in public health with Wayne County, Macomb County, and NSF International. His recent contributions to local public health include establishment of a low-income dental clinic, securing a WISEWOMAN program to promote healthy lifestyle choices, and the adoption of the Time of Sale or Transfer policy. As the department’s health officer, he has promoted public health efforts locally, statewide and at the national level. Tackitt noted that public health has afforded him great opportunities over the years. He commended the efforts of local public health and attributed his successes to great mentoring and being in the right place at the right time to make change. Tackitt said he feels privileged to have been a part of positive change; however, he feels it is time to move to the next stage of his life. Details related to Tackitt’s farewell open house will be available in August with a celebration tentatively planned in mid-September. In preparation for his retirement, the health department’s health officer position will be filled using a three-step interview process. Initially, there will be a review of candidates Steve Tackitt by a representative from Michigan Department of Community Health to assure candidates meet the state requirements. Each qualified candidate will be reviewed and screened by a five-member panel consisting of three commissioners, a representative from MDCH and a health officer from another county. The finalists will be interviewed in an open forum with the Barry-Eaton District Board of Health, along with the representative from MDCH and the health officer from another county. Full job details and application requirements can be found on the website, www.barryeatonhealth.org/ EDWARD JONES Don’t fall victim to investment ‘biases’ If you’re like most people, you go through many complex thoughts and emotions when choosing investments. In fact, a field of study called “behavioral finance” is devoted to understanding why people make their investment decisions. As part of their work, behavioral finance researchers examine “biases” that affect people’s investment selections. And as an individual investor, you, too, can benefit from understanding these biases — so that you can avoid them. Here are some of the key biases identified by behavioral finance experts: • Overconfidence — Overconfidence leads investors to believe they know the “right times” to buy and sell investments. But if you’re constantly buying and selling in the belief that you are correctly “timing” the market, you maybe wrong many times, and you may incur more investment fees, expenses and taxes than if you simply bought quality investments and held them for the long term. • Representativeness — If you make decisions based on preconceived ideas or stereotypes, you may be suffering from a bias called “representativeness.” For example, if you see that investments from a particular sector, such as energy, have performed particularly well in one year, you might think these types of vehicles will do just as well the next year, so you load up on them. Yet every sector will go through ups and downs, so one year’s performance cannot necessarily predict the next year's performance. Instead of chasing “hot” investments, try to build a balanced portfolio that reflects your individual goals, risk tolerance and time horizon. • Anchoring — Similar to representative- ness, an anchoring bias occurs when investors place too much emphasis on past performance. If you own shares of XYZ stock, for instance, and the stock price hit $60 per share, you might assume XYZ will always sell for at least $60 a share. But if XYZ drops to $30 per share — perhaps as a result of a broad-based market decline — you might think it’s now “undervalued,” leading you to “snap up” even more shares. However, XYX shares could also fall due to a change in its fundamentals, such as a shake-up in the company’s management or a decline in the competitiveness of its products. As an informed investor, you need to work with your financial advisor to determine the causes of an investment’s decline and any actions you may need to take in response. • Confirmation — If you are subject to confirmation bias, you may look for information that supports your reasons for choosing a particular investment. This type of bias can lead to faulty decision making, because you’ll end up with one-sided information. In other words, you may latch onto all the positive reasons for investing in something — such as a “hot stock” — but you may overlook the “red flags” that would cause you to think twice if you were being totally objective. To fight back against confirmation bias, take your time before making any investment decision — a quality investment will almost always be just as good a choice tomorrow as it is today. Being aware of these investment biases can help you make better decisions — and over a period of many years, these decisions can make a difference as you work toward achiev- STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 33.43 +1.63 AT&T 34.98 +.92 BP PLC 39.02 +2.21 CMS Energy Corp 23.42 +.12 Coca-Cola Co 75.20 +1.96 Eaton 40.66 +.07 Family Dollar Stores 69.42 +1.92 Fifth Third Bancorp 12.86 +.63 Flowserve CP 105.11 +2.61 Ford Motor Co. 10.50 +.31 General Mills 37.94 +.14 General Motors 22.17 +.87 Intel Corp. 26.52 +1.09 Kellogg Co. 48.39 +.19 McDonald’s Corp 87.51 +.43 Pfizer Inc. 22.19 +.59 Ralcorp 64.08 +1.38 Sears Holding 50.66 +2.81 Spartan Motors 4.55 +.20 Spartan Stores 17.30 +.35 Stryker 51.78 +.99 TCF Financial 10.96 +.35 Walmart Stores 67.72 +2.22 Gold $1612.23 -6.70 Silver $28.99 +.42 Dow Jones Average 12,573 +446 Volume on NYSE 680M +16M Drowning tragedy discussed at Orangeville Township Board meeting by Fran Faverman Staff Writer Once the opening rites had been observed in the June 5 meeting of the Orangeville Township Board of Trustees, Supervisor Tom Rook turned the floor over to Fire Chief Dan Boulter, who delivered his monthly report. Of the 24 calls his department responded to in the month of May, 17 of them occurred between May 20 and 29; the most tragic of them was the Memorial Day Weekend drowning of a 17-year-old teen from Grand Rapids in Gun Lake. Boulter estimated the department spent 16plus hours at the scene in attempts to recover the body. The amount of interdepartmental cooperation was enormous, he said, with Thornapple Township Emergency Services, the marine divisions of Barry and Allegan counties sheriff departments and the Michigan State Police involved. Pontoon boats were released to the department by a local business, a move that greatly enhanced search operations, he added. Boulter said it was one of the largest operations ever mounted by his department. He credited local businesses with providing cold beverages and food to the rescuers, saying, “I can’t say enough about the support we received from local businesses. Whatever we needed was offered. I am grateful to them for their support.” An estimated appropriation of $2,250 requested by Boulter to cover the additional labor costs was quickly approved by the board. Treasurer Vicki Ritchie explained that the money would be taken from the township’s contingency fund. Responding to a question from Trustee Robert Perino, who wondered why the department did not have a line-item contingency fund in its budget, Ritchie said the township’s general fund had a contingency fund that was available to cover those items. Moving on to other reports County Commissioner Craig Stolsonburg said the county board had received the Orangeville Township resolution opposing fracking and had been advised by its attorney that there was nothing the county could do. The county audit revealed a sum of $500,000 that had been budgeted but not spent; the funds would be carried over into the 2012 budget, he reported. The county also received a $250,000 refund from its insurance carrier; the refund was the result of a long period of no claims being made under the county’s policy. According to Stolsonburg, the money is most likely to be used to improve security in the courthouse. The airport, funded jointly by the county and the city of Hastings, has started to build a second hangar which will be rented out; the construction is part of the plan to have the airport become financially self-supporting Mark Paradowski, chair of the township’s parks and recreation committee, reported that new games had been secured for Orangeville Days. Four teams had signed up by the deadline for the softball tournament. He also reported that the playground area was receiving a great deal of use; parents have requested the addition of a third restroom facility near the playground, saying that the location of the current facilities was too far from the playground area for most youngsters. The board instructed him to get quotes for a third facility. Marlene Leep reported that a full lineup of summer activities at the J.C. Wheeler Public Library in Martin is available. The summer reading program begins with registration June 9 for children in kindergarten through sixth grade and for teenagers. The programs provide activities for all ages. 07601725 It’s Your Time, Rejoin Your Life! One Orthopedic Center. Unlimited Innovation Just For You! At Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, we specialize in allowing our patients to rejoin their life through Physical Medicine, Treatment of Degenerative Conditions, Pain Management, and Neurostimulation Therapy. Our Pain Management Clinic is here to improve your quality of life, alleviate your suffering and help you cope with long-term painful conditions. Pain is considered by a number of people as a simple problem, although, it can be a very complex and challenging situation. The goal is to eliminate the pain and to help the patient live a healthy and functional lifestyle. Our Orthopedic Clinic has earned a reputation as a true leader in the field of orthopedic medicine and complex fracture care. Each of our surgeons have gained expertise through extensive training in orthopedic trauma, hand and upper extremity care, sports medicine, and joint replacement surgery. As orthopedic traumatologists, we can help you make a full comeback! Call Today. (269) 945-9520 From left to right: James L. Horton, Jr., D.O., Orthopedic Surgeon; David J. Heeringa, D.O., Orthopedic Surgeon; Eric S. Leep, D.O., Physical Medicine; Kenneth S. Merriman, M.D., Orthopedic Surgeon. ing your financial objectives. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. Scan to visit us online! Marlene Greggorsen reported that Operation Clean Sweep was successful; 20 volunteers cleaned up six miles of roads in Orangeville Township. She noted that the community garden had been plowed. She said that initially in the past there was great enthusiasm but by the end of the summer, there were very few caretakers. The community outreach program was continuing. The fracking issue continued to occupy most of the public comment portion of the meeting. An unidentified resident distributed copies of a study analyzing biological risks to members of the board; also available was an estimate of some of the risks associated with the practice of horizontal hydraulic fracturing. George Williston said the leases surrounding Fish Lake and Mill Pond had been purchased by Richard Patterson, whose company is Meridian Land Trust. He said Patterson purchases leases with the intent to resell them. He also urged the board to hire James Olson, an environmental attorney. James Kahllo said he had learned that small companies will drill as soon as they can but large companies will often sit on leases for years. Another resident said baseline studies for health should be done before any drilling is allowed. Perino said that enough noise about the issue was being made at the level of the federal Environmental Protection Agency for some regulations; he added the regulations were currently on hold. Ritchie said she thinks the board should hire Olson. Rook said the township’s law firm was meeting this week to determine what avenues, if any, were available to them. He opposed taking any action at the present time. Julie Nakfoor Pratt, a candidate in the Aug. 7 Republican primary for the office of Barry County prosecutor, introduced herself. Among the actions she would take if elected are the establishment of task forces on bullying and elder and child abuse. She said she has been practicing law for 24 years and has previous prosecutorial experience in Barry and Allegan counties; since 2008 she has acquired experience in criminal defense law. The most contentious issue dealt with by the board was a request from Clerk Jennifer Goy for the employment of an outside person to take minutes at board meetings. She said she could not take minutes and participate effectively as a member of the board. Her motion to employ Deb Mousseau was supported by Ritchie. During the board discussion, Perino, Rook and Trustee Linda Ribble questioned the cost at $100 per meeting. Ribble also said she did not have any difficulty on occasions when she has taken minutes when Goy was absent. The motion was defeated on a 3-2 vote with Rook, Ribble and Perino voting ‘no.’ The board tabled a recycling proposal from Republic Inc., pending clarification of its terms. The next regularly scheduled meeting of the board will be Tuesday, July 3 at 7 p.m. at the township hall, 7350 Lindsey Road. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 14, 2012 — Page 9 Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz revisited TREES FOR THE FUTURE – A large grove of evergreen trees is located on the most recent farm to be pictured in the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz. Rene Ganguillet (right), who with his wife purchased the farm last year, explains to his oldest son, Gary, 6, the reason for planting trees, while his father, Paul, holding Kevin, look on. The trees were planted as a soil and water conservation measure as well as a “cash” crop. – Photo by Barth. This is the tenth part of a series reprinting the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz promotion that ran in the Banner 60 years ago. An unidentified aerial photo of an area farm was pictured in the Banner each week, from Jan. 24 to July 17, 1952, and the owners of the mystery farms were featured in the paper the following week. The contest was sponsored by the Banner and 35 area merchants (listed in the April 12 edition of the Banner). ***** Hastings Banner, May 29, 1952 Lucky Farmer known for his fine Holstein herd It is all dairying on the farm pictured last week in the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz being sponsored by the Banner and 35 Barry County merchants. The farm is the one operated on a partnership basis by Lloyd Gaskill and his son, Robert, about a quarter of a mile east of Dowling, Readers of dairying news, “Black & White” show and county fair results will be familiar with the name, for the Gaskill’s Holsteins have won ribbon after ribbon and news stories for the past years have carried headlines in the Banner such as “Dowling Sadie Fobes Posch Black & White Champion,” “Lloyd Gaskill’s herd highest producing in DHIA No. 1,” “Gaskill’s Amy completes tests,” “Gaskill bull given silver medal sire rating,” and they go on and on. The Gaskills are proud of their Holstein herd which they started developing about 1925. They have 60 head of stock and are milking about 30 cows for the Battle Creek market. They’ve raised their own bull, sired by the great gold medal bull “Mont Vic Rag Apple Chief,” and are also using some artificial insemination for their herd. Lloyd Gaskill was born in Baltimore Township Aug. 2, 1897, the son of Mrs. and Charles H. Gaskill. His mother died last summer and his dad lives with them. Lloyd on Oct. 20, 1922, married Gertrude Bacheller, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Bacheller, both deceased. Her father for many years was a rural mail carrier out of the Hastings post office. Lloyd was graduated from Hastings High with the class of 1914, and Gertrude was graduated with the class of 1919. They have four daughters, Mrs. Chester (Mildred) Soderquist, who lives near Iron River in the Upper Peninsula, Margaret, a junior at Western Michigan College in Kalamazoo; Mrs. Robert (Marcia) Erigle, of Hastings, and Miriam, 12, at home. Lloyd has 120 acres on his farm and Robert owns an 80 across the road. They have a real “father and son” relationship, working the acreage together. The Gaskill farm was one time known as the Clemence farm, first owned by Nathaneal and then his son, Robert. Lloyd’s folks bought it in 1916. At first Lloyd and Gertrude rented the farm from his father and then in 1926 they purchased the homestead. The Gaskills raise corn and oats for silage and grain for their herd, and alfalfa-brome for hay and pasture. They raise no swine or chickens but do have cats and kittens. The dairy barn includes a west wing, 36by-50, which is a rebuilt barn purchased by Lloyd for $150. In it are generally housed the young stock. The main portion is 40-by-60 and includes cement stanchions constructed by Lloyd with the aid of a man employed at $1 a day during the Depression. The Gaskill’s production records are something they have a right to be proud of. Their DHIA [Dairy Herd Improvement Association] rating has been tops for several years and last year their Herd Improvement Registry rating was especially good – 524.7 pounds of fat average on 26 cows. (The following story from Brattleboro, Vt., reached the Banner Wednesday morning.) Hopegood Anna King, II, a registered Holstein cow in the herd owned by Lloyd A. and C. Robert Gaskill, Route 4, Hastings, has recently closed a long lifetime of high production totaling 145,18 pounds of milk and 5,347 pounds of butter-fat on two milking daily, in seven yearly milking periods. (100,000 pounds of milk is the equivalent of approximately 47,500 quarts. She was taken out of production at an age of 14 years after producing milk for approximately eight years longer than the average U.S. cow. Her highest single record was made at the age of 9 years, 6 months when she produced 21,115 pounds of milk and 754 pounds of butterfat. her production records are officially recorded by The Holstein-Friesian Association of America. ***** Hastings Banner, June 5, 1952 Rene Ganguillets happy to see home in Banner A happy surprise to open the Banner and see a picture of their home and then to answer the telephone as a score or more calls came saying “congratulations” on the picture in the Banner, was the experience of the Rene Ganguillets last week. CITY OF HASTINGS PUBLIC NOTICE ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 484 The undersigned, being the duly qualified and acting Clerk of the City of Hastings, Michigan, does hereby certify that Ordinance No. 484 TO DELETE EXISTING SECTIONS 18-10 THROUGH 18-22 OF THE CODE, AND ADD SECTION 90-805(3) TO THE CODE PROVIDING REGULATIONS APPLYING TO ACCESS RAMPS was adopted by the City Council of the City of Hastings at a regular meeting on the 11th of June 2012. A complete copy of this Ordinance is available for review at the office of the City Clerk at City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM until 5:00 PM. Thomas E. Emery City Clerk 77568732 NOTED HERD – Robert Gaskill (left) and his father, Lloyd, are pictured in the barnyard of their Baltimore Township farm with some of their well-known Holstein cattle which have been top producers. The Gaskill farm was pictured last week in the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz. – Photo by Barth. It was formerly the Jennie Loehr and the late Luther Loehr farm located on M-43 just south of the Goodwill church, in Rutland Township. The Earl Bucks, (Mrs. Buck was the former Emma Loehr), were living at the farm for the past 15 years and they moved into their newly constructed home just north of the farm where Earl and his brother-in-law, Elmer Loehr, are developing beautiful cottage and year-round home sites at Loehrs-Shores at the west end of Podunk Lake and along M-43. Aunt Jenny Loehr, as she is known to many, came to the farm as a bride. The original home burned in 1907 and they built the present home. The house is all modern, very pleasant, and has a beautiful view across the lake. Rene Ganguillet is the groundskeeper at Johnson field and the city’s school grounds. HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, June 14 — Movie Memories enjoys jungle to jungle with “Road to Zanzibar,” 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, June 15 — preschool story time enjoys stories about fathers, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; Author Gary Schmidt speaks about writing books for young people, 7 to 9 p.m. at the Barry Community Enrichment Center for the library’s fifth anniversary (a free, ticketed event). Monday, June 18 — summer reading program, “Dream Big, Read,” continues; Kathy Crane art exhibit continues; library board meets, 4 to 6; computer class learns about downloading eBooks and eAudio Books, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 19 — toddler story time enjoys stories about bats, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.; open chess club, 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, June 20 — summer reading program features the Outdoor Discovery Center Macatawa Greenway, 2 to 3 p.m. Call the Hastings Public Library for more information, 269-945-4263. He is also the greenskeeper at the Hastings Country Club where he has been for 25 years with the exception of the two years he served in the Navy during the war. Rene was born in La Heutte, Switzerland, March 10, 1908, and came to this country at the age of 4 with his parents, the Paul Ganguillets, and an only sister. The family farmed north of Hastings until after the death of the mother and they moved into town. Paul worked with Rene at the Country Club until the last three years he has been employed by the Board of Education. Rene was married April 21, 1935, to Helen Weaver, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Henry Weaver, of Hastings. Rene says his desire was always to go back onto the farm, especially after his return from the service. Then, after adopting two little sons, Gary Paul, now 6, and Kevin Gene 3 1/2, and Grandpa making his home with them, the Ganguillets outgrew their small home they had built in 1940. It meant enlarging the home they had or moving to larger quarters. They decided it would be good to get the boys out in the country and now would be the best time to make the change. They had been looking for some time and when the Loehr place was placed on sale they knew it was just what they were NOTICE OF A PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED 2012-2013 BUDGET FOR DELTON KELLOGG SCHOOLS PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that on June 25, 2012 at 6:45 o’clock p.m., in Room 32 in the Upper Elementary School at 327 N. Grove St., Delton, Michigan, the Board of Education of the Delton Kellogg Schools will hold a public hearing to consider the district’s proposed 2012-2013 budget. The Board may not adopt its proposed 2012-2013 budget until after the public hearing. A copy of the proposed 2012-2013 budget including the proposed property tax millage rate is available for public inspection during normal business hours at the Superintendent’s office, 327 N. Grove St., Delton, Michigan. The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget will be a subject of this hearing. This notice is given by order of the Board of Education. Jennifer Bever, Secretary 77568730 NOTICE The minutes of the meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners held June 12, 2012, are available in the County Clerk’s Office at 220 W. State St., Hastings, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or www.barrycounty.org. 77568645 CITY OF HASTINGS Position Available Code Enforcement Officer The City of Hastings is accepting applications for a parttime Code Enforcement Officer position in the Department of Public Services. Applications will be accepted until Friday, July 6, 2012 at 5:00 PM. The selected candidate will perform and document code violation inspections in response to citizen complaints and routine daily inspections, and monitor corrective action taken and compliance with penalties imposed by civil infraction tickets and uniform law citations. Minimum requirements include a high school diploma or GED and a driver’s license valid in the State of Michigan. One year of related experience is strongly preferred. Beginning wage rate for this position is $13.10 per hour and does not include fringe benefits. An application form and full job description are available upon request at City of Hastings, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. Questions regarding this position should be directed to Tim Girrbach, Director of Public Services, 269-945-2468. 77568713 looking for. The Dr. George Lockwoods bought the Ganguillet home on South Benton Street. Rene’s interest has always been in turf management, experimenting with grasses, their reaction to fertilizers, etc., and he expects to carry over this interest into grassland farming. Also, he wanted a place with land he could put into evergreen trees and thanks to the foresight of the Bucks they already had several acres of trees in, many of them now towering into a “young forest.” They all agree that if there was nothing else attractive about the place, just a walk back into those pines is a thrill and attraction enough. They plan to plant trees each year, eventually making the place known as “Evergreen Acres,” and offering several varieties of Christmas trees for sale. The land is being farmed by Melvin and Gerald Smith. Rene, Helen, Grandpa Paul and the boys are all enthusiastic over their new home and they are so happy to have located in the Goodwill community. They say the name “Goodwill” certainly fits the neighborhood in every way. They have found everyone so friendly and helpful. Tim Girrbach Director of Public Services Call anytime to place your classified ad in the Hastings Banner... 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 CITY OF HASTINGS Position Available Operator 2 - Dept. of Public Services The City of Hastings is accepting applications for two (2) fulltime entry level bargaining unit Operator 2 positions in the Department of Public Services. Applications will be accepted until Friday, July 6, 2012 at 5:00 PM. Position #1 will be assigned to the wastewater treatment plant and involved with the day to day operation and maintenance of the City’s activated sludge treatment plant and a neighboring township septic tank effluent pumping system. Position #2 will be assigned to the maintenance division in the Public Services Department and involved with manual and semi-skilled tasks related to the operation, maintenance, and repair of the City’s public work facilities and infrastructure. Minimum requirements include a high school diploma or GED and a Commercial Driver’s License valid in the State of Michigan with an “A” endorsement and air brakes. One year of related experience is strongly preferred. Beginning wage rate for this position is $12.12 - $15.50 per hour (DOQ) and includes a fringe benefit package. An application form and full job description are available upon request at City of Hastings, 201 East State Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Questions regarding this position should be directed to Tim Girrbach, Director of Public Services, 269-945-2468. Tim Girrbach Director of Public Services 77568716 �Page 10 — Thursday, June 14, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Nowhere Band kicks off Middleville Riverbank summer music series Fracking draws opponents at jamboree Opponents of hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, in Barry County and the state of Michigan are present at Circle Pines Buttermilk Jamboree over the weekend. Petitions were available for signing, as well as information, T-shirts, lawn signs and bumper stickers against the drilling process. Information about oil and gas leases now available on DVD Videos of an informational meeting at Pierce Cedar Creek Institute in May are now available. The three-part video covers the natural gas drilling process of horizontal hydraulic fracturing, commonly referred to as “fracking.” The May meeting was designed to be objective and covered how an oil well is developed, the regulations drillers are required to meet, and how to protect owner and property rights when signing an oil and gas lease. All topics are discussed in three videos. The first video is an overview of the oil and gas drilling process and regulations specific to the state of Michigan. This overview was given by Michael Shelton, a geologist with the Michigan Department of Environmental Equality. The second video is a presentation by Susan Harley of Clean Water Action, who discusses the environmental issues surrounding fracking. The third video is an introduction to oil and gas leases, facilitated by Curtis Talley of the Michigan State University Extension office. Pierce Cedar Creek Institute has copies available in its visitor center for one-week checkouts. The videos can also be viewed online by visiting the institute’s website, www.cedarcreekinstitute.org. DVDs of the informational meeting are available for check out at the Delton and Hastings libraries. For more information, call Matt Dykstra, 269-721-4473. by Julie Makarewicz Staff Writer Summer Friday nights in Middleville will be filled with music and a chance for families and friends to gather for free entertainment. The popular Riverbank Music Series, sponsored by the Middleville Downtown Development Authority, returns starting June 15 with the Nowhere Band. The music series continues each Friday night through Aug. 24 with a variety of musical entertainment from country to bluegrass to classic rock and more. The free concerts start at 6:30 and end about 8:30 p.m. in the gazebo at Stagecoach Park on East Main Street. In case of bad weather, the concerts will be moved inside to the Middleville United Methodist Church at 111 Church St. The Nowhere Band has been performing together since 2005. The band specializes in Beatles tunes, playing popular Beatles classics like “Let It Be,” and “Eight Days a Week.” Visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to sit on the lawn by the gazebo, listen to music and have a picnic or snacks, or use the Paul Henry Thornapple Tail and stroll along the river. Downtown restaurants will offer Friday night specials. Featured bands scheduled to play in the music series include Sweet Grass with its bluegrass music June 22; An Dro with Celtic music June 29; and the Thornapple Valley Strings July 6. Luke Lenhart Family and Friends will be on stage with their bluegrass music July 13; and Mid-Life Crisis, classic rock band, takes the stage July 20. At that concert, the group will host a donation drive for Mel Trotter Ministries. Rounding out the summer will be the Blue Water Ramblers with folk, country and blue- Call anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads 269-945-9554 grass tunes July 27; Kick’n Brass classic rock Aug. 3; Hawks and Owls Aug. 10; The Caledonia Strike steel drum band Aug. 17; and Chris and Cody, a local Middleville duo Aug. 24. For more information or a complete list of the entertainment, visit www.villageofmiddleville.org or call 269-795-3385. Nashville car show expands to Valley Rally ‘Route 66’ in Nashville will again be filled with classic cars Saturday, June 16. The 12th annual Nashville Classic Car Show is merging with Valley Rally, offering several days of activities. Blue Water Rockers kicks off the fun Thursday, June 14, at 6:30 p.m. This will be first in the Lyrics on the Lawn series sponsored by Friends of Putnam District Library, which presents the free concert on the library lawn. Friday evening fills the village with karaoke and free food prepared and served by members of Grace Community Church. A softball tournament will begin behind the stores, followed by fireworks at dusk. Saturday, registration of classic cars will begin at 8 a.m., and the first Valley Rally 5K will line up behind the stores. Village-wide yard sales will be throughout Nashville, and Art on the Lawn will feature the paintings of Lelia Lentz and furniture from Lentz Table Company at the library. There will also be art activities for children, an annual book sale and root beer float sale. A parade is planned for 11 a.m. and a variety of food options will be for sale at Central Park. Car show enthusiasts may purchase tickets for entry to win a host of door prizes. Fifty-plus trophies will be awarded to car show entries. For more information about the car show, call Ralph Rasey, 517-726-0036. Trolley Around Town FREE TROLLEY RIDES Ride downtown for dinner, view the new sculptures, shop, get some ice cream, have coffee or drinks, visit the park... Fridays from 6pm to 10pm Now thru August 17 201 S. JEFFERSON ST., HASTINGS (corner of Jefferson & Court St.) 269-945-0100 The City of Hastings will be the venue this summer for the newest Trolley route. Every Friday night, now through August 17, the Trolley will ring through the streets from 6pm to 10pm. Catch it at any of the schools in the city limits, any city park, and other designated stops, or just flag it down on its route. All rides FREE compliments of the local businesses listed here. 269.945.3412 312 E. Court St., Hastings Look to us for all your jewelry, watch and clock repairs. Gilmore Jewelers 102 E. State Street In the Heart of Hastings RESTAURANTE 269-945-9572 945-4403 • 131 South Jefferson, Hastings www.gilmorejewelers.com HOURS: Mon. - Thurs. 11-8; Fri. 11-9; Sat. 11-8:30; Sun. 12-3 Join us on Facebook 1120 West Green, Hastings 945-4174 • Live Music • Outdoor Dining Browse through our site: www.countyseatlounge.com 128 South Jefferson St. Downtown Hastings 269-945-2401 269.948.4042 150 W. Court St., Hastings, MI 49058 Est. 1983 • comfortably, sophisticated ambiance • unique flavor combinations • enviable wine list • signature cocktails • unrivaled coffees 150 W. State St. • Downtown Hastings • 269.948.9222 SeasonalGrille.com Thank you Barry County Transit would like to thank the City of Hastings, and the sponsoring merchants for their help in making this service possible. 77568666 945-3405 404 E. Woodlawn Ave. Hastings, MI 49058 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 14, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-26123-DE Estate of Dennis R. Crouch. Date of birth: 12/9/1943. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Dennis R. Crouch, who lived at 8390 Chain O Lakes Drive, Delton, Michigan died March 15, 2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Kathryn Crouch, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court St., Ste. 302, Hastings, and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: June 12, 2012 Manvir S. Grewal, Sr. P48082 2400 Science Pkwy. Lansing, MI 48864 (517) 393-3000 Kathryn Crouch 9215 Windsor Hwy. Dimondale, MI 48821 77568734 (517) 646-6666 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by ANDERSON PROPERTIES, a Michigan partnership ("Mortgagor"), to CHEMICAL BANK, a Michigan banking corporation, having an office at 333 E. Main Street, Midland, Michigan 48640-6511 (the "Mortgagee"), dated September 29, 2006, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on October 20, 2006, as Instrument No. 1171694 (the "Mortgage"). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgagee is the owner of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Sixty-Six Thousand Three Hundred Fifty and 52/100 Dollars ($66,350.52). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 12th day of July, 2012, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: Commencing at the Southwest corner of Lot 289 of the City, formerly Village, of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof and running thence West 20 rods for a point of beginning; thence North 8 rods; thence West 4 rods; thence South 8 rods; thence East 4 rods to point of beginning. Also (a) all privileges, appurtenances, improvements, buildings, tenements, hereditaments, easements, rights of way, licenses, riparian and littoral rights, mineral/oil/gas/water rights, rights to adjoining land, and all other rights belonging to the abovedescribed premises and which may hereafter attach thereto; (b) all rights to make divisions of such premises that are exempt from the platting requirements of the Michigan Land Division Act, as it shall be amended; (c) all rents, issues, profits, revenues, proceeds, accounts and general intangibles arising from or relating to the premises or any business conducted thereon by the Mortgagor including, without limitation, all rights, conferred by Act No. 210 of Michigan Public Act of 1953, as amended; (d) all equipment, other goods, and fixtures of every kind and nature whatsoever, now or hereafter located in or upon such premises or any part thereof and used or useable in connection with any present or future operation of such premises, whether now owned or hereafter acquired by the Mortgagor, including, without limitation, all heating, air conditioning, ventilation, lighting, incinerating and power equipment, engines, signs, security systems, fences, hoists, cranes, compressors, pipes, pumps, tanks, motors, plumbing, cleaning, fire prevention, fire extinguishing, apparatus, elevators, escalators, shades, awnings, screens, storm doors and windows, appliances, attached cabinets, partitions, carpeting, ground maintenance equipment. Commonly known as: 437 W. Mill Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 P.P. #08-55-001-107-00 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys the premises at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee for damaging the premises during the redemption period. Dated: June 14, 2012 CHEMICAL BANK Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2487 (616) 752-2000 77568684 8412856-1 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Chester M. Maka and Dianne L. Maka, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 12, 2004, and recorded on April 26, 2004 in instrument 1126429, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Five Thousand Four Hundred Seventy-One and 14/100 Dollars ($125,471.14). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 21, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A Parcel of land in the Northwest 1/4 of Section 21, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, being more particularly described as commencing at the Northeast corner of said Section 21; thence North 89 degrees 48 minutes 22 seconds West along the North line of said Section 2644.25 feet to the North 1/4 post of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 13 minutes 15 seconds West along the North and South 1/4 line of said Section 1697.82 feet to the centerline of Highway M-43; thence 254.06 feet along said centerline and the arc of a curve to the right, Whose radius is 998.20 feet and whose chord bears South 57 degrees 03 minutes 30 seconds West 253.37 feet to the true place of beginning; thence continuing 50.99 feet along the centerline, and the arc of a curve to the right whose radius is 998.20 feet and whose chord bears South 65 degrees 48 minutes 49 seconds West 50.97 feet; thence South 67 degrees 16 minutes 36 seconds West along said centerline 134.05 feet; thence South 68 degrees 59 minutes 42 seconds West along said centerline 120.09 feet; thence South 00 degrees 22 minutes 51 seconds West 307.25 feet; thence North 89 degrees 45 minutes 19 seconds East 282.68 feet; thence North 00 degrees 13 minutes 15 seconds East 421.75 feet to place of beginning. Subject to an easement for ingress and egress and public utilities for the benefit of Parcel D over a parcel of land described as: commencing at the Northeast corner of said Section 21; thence North 89 degrees 48 minutes 22 seconds West along the North line of said Section 2644.25 feet to the North 1/4 post of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 13 minutes 15 seconds West along the North and South 1/4 line of said Section 1697.82 feet to the centerline of Highway M-43; thence 305.04 feet along said centerline and the arc of a curve to the right, whose radius is 998.20 feet and whose chord bears South 58 degrees 31 minutes 20 seconds West 303.85 feet; thence South 67 degrees 16 minutes 36 seconds West along said centerline 134.05 feet; thence South 68 degrees 59 minutes 42 seconds west along said centerline 33.90 feet to the East line of existing 66 foot wide easement for ingress and egress; thence South 00 degrees 22 minutes 45 seconds West along said East line 228.79 feet to the place of beginning; thence North 79 degrees 52 minutes 15 seconds East 228.84 feet; thence South 00 degrees 13 minutes 15 seconds West 67.09 feet; thence South 79 degrees 52 minutes 15 seconds West 229.03 feet to said East line; thence North 00 degrees 22 minutes 45 seconds East 67.13 feet to the place of beginning. Also together with and subject to an existing easement for ingress, egress and public utilities as described below.Also together with and subject to the rights of the public over the Northerly 33 feet thereof as used for Highway M-43. Description of centerline of existing 66 foot wide easement for ingress, egress and public utilities: Commencing at the Northeast corner of said Section 21, Town 2 North, Range 9 West; thence North 89 degrees 48 minutes 22 seconds West along the North line of said Section, 2644.25 feet to the North 1/4 post of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 13 minutes 15 seconds West along the North and South 1/4 line of said Section, 1697.82 feet to the centerline of Highway M-43; thence 305.04 feet along said centerline and the arc of a curve to the right, whose radius is 998.20 feet and whose chord bears South 58 degrees 31 minutes 20 seconds West 303.85 feet; thence South 67 degrees 16 minutes 36 seconds West, along centerline, 134.05 feet; thence South 68 degrees 59 minutes 42 seconds West along said centerline 69.34 feet to the true place of beginning; thence South 00 degrees 22 minutes 45 seconds West, 325.24 feet; thence South 19 degrees 38 minutes 38 seconds East 200.55 feet; thence South 05 degrees 33 minutes 41 seconds East, 221.02 feet; thence South 42 degrees 59 minutes 58 seconds West, 210.09 feet; thence South 47 degrees 57 minutes 58 seconds West 155.36 feet; thence South 68 degrees 57 minutes 42 seconds West 159.53 feet; thence North 76 degrees 01 minutes 17 seconds West 132.05 feet; thence South 84 degrees 07 minutes 17 seconds West 213.20 feet to the place of ending of said easement. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 24, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #395012F01 77568061 (05-24)(06-14) GET ALL THE LOCAL NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Daryl L Brodbeck, an unmarried man to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc as nominee for Polaris Home Funding Corp its successors and assigns , Mortgagee, dated June 12, 2008 and recorded June 30, 2008 in Instrument # 20080630-0006729 and corrected by Affidavit recorded November 30, 2009 in Instrument # 200911300011519 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: CitiMortgage, Inc, by assignment dated November 12, 2009 and recorded November 18, 2009 in Instrument # 200911180011265 and corrected by Affidavit recorded December 7, 2009 in Instrument # 200912070011776 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-Two Thousand Seven Hundred Seventy-Two Dollars and Twenty-Nine Cents ($162,772.29) including interest 5.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on July 5, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Southeast corner of section 1, Town 4 North, Range 8 West, Carlton Township, Barry County, Michigan, thence North along the East line of said section 2105 Feet to the place of beginning; thence West 725 Feet; thence North 430 Feet; thence East 725 Feet to the East line of said section; thence South along said east line 430 Feet to the place of beginning Commonly known as 7451 Cunningham Road, Lake Odessa MI 48849 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 6/07/2012 CitiMortgage, Inc, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-61931 (06-07)(06-28) 77568579 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Robert F. Lancaster and Lisa Lancaster, husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Polaris Home Funding Corp. its successors or assigns., Mortgagee, dated April 28, 2008 and recorded May 1, 2008 in Instrument Number 20080501-0004710, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fourteen Thousand Six Hundred Eighty-Five and 94/100 Dollars ($114,685.94) including interest at 6% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 07/05/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the center of Section 31, Town 1 North, Range 10 West, Prairieville Township, Barry County, Michigan, thence South 89 degrees 56 minutes 00 seconds East, 498.56 feet along the East and West quarter line of said Section 31, thence South 00 degrees 33 minutes 00 seconds East, 774.00 feet parallel with the North and South quarter line of said section to the point of beginning; thence South 89 degrees 56 minutes 00 seconds East, 175.00 feet parallel with said East and West quarter line; thence South 03 degrees 11 minutes 48 seconds East, 413.44 feet tot he Northerly line of Highway M-89; thence Northwesterly along said Northerly line, 205.41 feet along the arc of a curve to the left having a radius of 1959.86 feet and a chord bearing of North 71 degrees 30 minutes 21 seconds West, 205.32 feet; thence North 00 degrees 33 minutes 00 seconds West 347.89 feet parallel with said North and South quarter line to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: June 7, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 2485022633 File No. 682.2314 (06-07)(06-28) 77568532 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Shawn M. Ricketts and Bambi R. Ricketts, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, Inc., Mortgagee, dated October 23, 2002, and recorded on November 1, 2002 in instrument 1090769, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Six Thousand Five Hundred One and 74/100 Dollars ($96,501.74). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 21, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 18, Fairview Estates No. 1, according to the recorded plat thereof in Liber 6 of Plats on Page 6. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 24, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #387378F01 77568068 (05-24)(06-14) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by James P. Shields, single, original mortgagor(s), to Household Finance Corporation III, Mortgagee, dated August 16, 2006, and recorded on August 21, 2006 in instrument 1168918, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Three Thousand Two Hundred Forty-Two and 38/100 Dollars ($203,242.38). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 5, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 105 and 106 of the plat of Steven's Wooded Acres No. 2 according to the plat thereof recorded in Liber 4 of Plats, Page 60, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 7, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #326802F02 77568544 (06-07)(06-28) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by ERIC C. ANDERSON, a married man, THOMAS S. ANDERSON, a single man, and MARK ANDERSON, a married man, as joint tenants (collectively, "Mortgagor"), to SAND RIDGE BANK, a division of First Financial Bank NA, a national association, of 450 W. Lincoln Highway, Box 598, Schereville, Indiana 46375, dated September 9, 2005, which was duly recorded in the office of the Barry County, Michigan, Register of Deeds on September 13, 2005, as Instrument No. 1152665, as assigned to CHEMICAL BANK, a Michigan banking corporation, of 2185 Three Mile Road NW, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49544-1451 ("Mortgagee"), pursuant to a Branch Purchase and Assumption Agreement dated May 11, 2006, and a Bill of Sale dated August 18, 2006, as evidenced of record by an assignment of mortgage dated September 14, 2009, recorded September 29, 2009, as Instrument No. 200909290009655, Barry County Records, and as amended by a first amendment to mortgaged dated May 5, 2010, as recorded June 4, 2010, as Instrument No. 201006040005390, Barry County Records, given to Mortgagee by Mortgagor and also by SHERRY ANDERSON, who is the wife of Eric C. Anderson, and CHRISTINE ANDERSON, who is the wife of Mark Anderson (the “Mortgage”). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgagee is the owner of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Seventy Seven Thousand Five Hundred Six and 34/100 Dollars ($77,506.34). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 12th day of July, 2012, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: The East 1/2 of Lot 7 and the West 1/2 of Lot 8 of Block 2 of James Dunnings Addition to the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded Plat thereof. Together with all rights, easements, appurtenances, royalties, mineral rights, oil and gas rights, crops, timber, all diversion payments or third party payments made to crop producers, all water and riparian rights, wells, ditches, reservoirs, and water stock and all existing and future improvements, structures, fixtures, and replacements that may now, or at any time in the future be part of the real estate. Commonly known as: 721 W. Walnut Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 P.P. #08-55-035-016-00 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys the premises at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee for damaging the premises during the redemption period. Dated: June 14, 2012 CHEMICAL BANK Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2487 (616) 752-2000 8412749-1 77568679 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Dennis J. Goit, a married man and Joyce A. Goit, his wife, to MCA Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated April 6, 1998 and recorded May 11, 1998 in Instrument Number 1011750, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by US Bank National Association, as Trustee, successor in interest to Wachovia Bank, National Association, as Trustee for GSMPS 2005-RP3 by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Two Thousand Four Hundred Eighty-Four and 79/100 Dollars ($82,484.79) including interest at 8% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 07/12/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The land referred to in this Commitment, situated in the County of Barry, Township of Thornapple, State of Michigan, is described as follows: That part of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 12, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, commencing at the Southeast corner of said Section; Thence South 89 degrees 48 minutes 23 seconds West, 334.56 feet along the South line of said Section; Thence North 00 degrees 15 minutes 25 seconds West, 422.00 feet parallel with the West line of the East 1/2 of said Southeast 1/4; Thence North 89 degrees 48 minutes 23 seconds East, 334.63 feet, thence South 00 degrees 14 minutes 50 seconds East 422.00 feet along the East line of said Section to the point of beginning. Subject to highway right-ofway over the Southerly 33 feet thereof and over the Easterly 33 feet thereof. Except that part of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 12, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, Thornapple Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Beginning at the Southeast corner of Section 12; Thence South 89 degrees 48 minutes 23 seconds West 334.56 feet along the South line of said Southeast 1/4; Thence North 00 degrees 15 minutes 25 seconds West 222.00 feet parallel with the West line of the East 1/2 of said Southeast 1/4; Thence North 89 degrees 48 minutes 23 seconds East 334.60 feet; Thence South 00 degrees 14 minutes 50 seconds East 222.00 feet along the East line of said Southeast 1/4 to the place of beginning. Subject to highway rights-of-way for Garbow Road and Robertson Road. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: June 14, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 2485022633 File No. 326.9185 77568697 (06-14)(07-05) �Page 12 — Thursday, June 14, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE OF MORTGAGE CHARLES J. HIEMSTRA IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE IN THE MILITARY, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER LISTED BELOW. Default has occurred in the conditions of a Mortgage (“Mortgage”) made by Rick A. VanDeWeg and Tracy VanDeWeg, husband and wife, of 5205 Hammond Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058-8936, Mortgagor, to Lake Michigan Credit Union, a state chartered credit union, having its principal office at 4027 Lake Drive SE, Suite 110, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49546, which Mortgage was dated July 30, 2008, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on August 5, 2008 at Instrument Number 20080805-0007965. By reason of this default, the Mortgagee hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of said Mortgage due and payable immediately. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on this Mortgage the sum of One Hundred Nine Thousand One Hundred Seventy-one and 68/100 Dollars ($109.171.68). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by this Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the Power of Sale contained in this Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, this Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part thereof, at public auction to the highest bidder at the East Steps of the Barry County Courthouse, 220 W. State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 that being the place of holding Circuit Court in said County, on Thursday, the 28th day of June, 2012, at 1:00 p.m. The premises covered by this Mortgage are located in the Township of Hope, County of Barry, State of Michigan and described as follows: Lots 3 and 4 of Casa-Del-Mar of Acker’s Point according to the plat thereof recorded in Liber 3 of Plats, Page 64 of Barry County Records. PP# 08-07-070-003-00 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale unless determined to be abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period will be as provided by MCLA 600.3241a. If this property is sold at a foreclosure sale by advertisement, during the period of redemption, borrower/mortgagor will be responsible to the purchaser under this Deed or to the mortgage holder for physical injury to the property beyond wear and tear resulting from the normal use of the property if the physical injury is caused by or at the direction of the borrower/mortgagor. Dated: May 23, 2012 LAKE MICHIGAN CREDIT UNION MORTGAGEE THIS INSTRUMENT PREPARED BY: Charles J. Hiemstra (P-24332) Attorney for Mortgagee 125 Ottawa Ave., NW, Suite 310 Grand Rapids, MI 49503 77568132 (616) 235-3100 SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by MARK D. HAMMOND, A SINGLE MAN, to UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, Mortgagee, dated May 30, 2008, and recorded on June 6, 2008, in Document No. 200806060005989, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Eight Thousand Two Hundred Fourteen Dollars and Thirty-One Cents ($128,214.31), including interest at 5.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on July 5, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: COMMENCING AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF SECTION 6, TOWN 1 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST; THENCE WEST ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SAID SECTION A DISTANCE OF 379.50 FEET; THENCE SOUTH AT RIGHT ANGLES TO SAID NORTH SECTION LINE, 178.20 FEET TO A POINT ON THE NORTHEASTERLY EXTENSION OF THE CENTERLINE OF PINE LAKE ROAD; THENCE SOUTH 60 DEGREES WEST ALONG SAID CENTERLINE, 1516.69 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 26 DEGREES 07 MINUTES 58 SECONDS EAST, 470.22 FEET FOR THE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE SOUTH 26 DEGREES 07 MINUTES 58 SECONDS EAST, 178.34 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 78 DEGREES 09 MINUTES 57 SECONDS WEST, 583.16 FEET TO THE CENTERLINE OF OAKRIDGE DRIVE THENCE NORTH 10 DEGREES 25 MINUTES 30 SECONDS WEST ALONG SAID CENTERLINE, 246.34 FEET; THENCE NORTH 61 DEGREES 42 MINUTES 15 SECONDS EAST, 170 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 83 DEGREES 42 MINUTES 41 SECONDS EAST, 161.94 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 59 DEGREES 20 MINUTES 03 SECONDS EAST, 91.73 FEET; THENCE NORTH 81 DEGREES 48 MINUTES 33 SECONDS EAST, 149 FEET TO POINT OF BEGINNING. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 USDA.000085 (06-07)(06-28) 77568589 SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by RANDY J. SILSBEE, A SINGLE MAN, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated November 22, 2006, and recorded on January 3, 2007, in Document No. 1174584, and assigned by said mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Five Thousand Three Hundred Seventy-Nine Dollars and Twelve Cents ($105,379.12), including interest at 7.000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on June 21, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: PART OF THE NORTHEAST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 7, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST, DESCRIBED AS: COMMENCING AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF SAID SECTION 7; THENCE SOUTH 88 DEGREES 34 MINUTES 16 SECONDS WEST 497.86 FEET ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SAID SECTION 7 TO THE POINT OF THE BGINNING; THENCE SOUTH 88 DEGREES 34 MINUTES 16 SECONDS WEST 248.83 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 2 DEGREES 38 MINUTES 38 SECONDS EAST 262.69 FEET PARALLEL WITH THE EAST LINE OF SAID SECTION 7; THENCE NORTH 88 DEGREES 34 MINUTES 16 SECONDS EAST 248.83 FEET; THENCE NORTH 2 DEGREES 38 MINUTES 38 SECONDS WEST 262.60 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 JPMC.000277 (05-24)(06-14) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Dennis Jay Steffes aka Dennis J Steffes and Tina Marie Steffes aka Tina M Steffes, husband and wife, as tenants by the entireties, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated November 22, 2004, and recorded on December 2, 2004 in instrument 1138030, and assigned by mesne assignments to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Forty-Eight Thousand Three Hundred Eight and 56/100 Dollars ($248,308.56). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 21, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Beginning at the Northwesterly corner of Lot 1 of Algonquin North Shore Subdivision, according to the recorded plat thereof in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 50, in Section 2, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, and Running thence North 51 degrees 04 minutes East 41.18 feet along Northwesterly line of said Lot; thence South 55 degrees 01 minutes 24 seconds East 57.0 feet along the Northeasterly side of said Lot; thence South 01 degrees 06 minutes 14 seconds West 155.34 feet along the East line of said Lot; thence North 89 degrees 22 minutes West 40.0 feet along the Plat Meander Line; thence North 22 degrees 45 minutes 04 seconds West 91.51 feet to a point on the West line of said Lot 1, distant South 00 degrees 16 minutes East 77.28 feet from the Northwesterly corner thereof; thence North 56 degrees 43 minutes 34 seconds West 85.40 feet to the center of Iroquois Trail (platted North Shore Drive); thence North 51 degrees 04 minutes East 65.0 feet along the center of said Street; thence South 00 degrees 16 minutes East 32.02 feet to the place of beginning. Extending the Easterly and Westerly sidelines to the Water's Edge of Algonquin Lake. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 24, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #337812F03 77568073 (05-24)(06-14) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE The Mortgage described below is in default: Mortgage (the “Mortgage”) made by Jason E. Jonker and Jennifer J. Jonker, husband and wife, as Mortgagors, to United Bank Mortgage Corporation, a Michigan banking corporation, with its address at 900 East Paris SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49546, as Mortgagee, dated March 18, 2005 and recorded on March 28, 2005, as Instrument No.: 1143335, Barry County Records, Barry County, Michigan. The balance owing on the Mortgage is $189,187.78 at the time of this Notice. The Mortgage contains a power of sale and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage, or any part of the Mortgage. TAKE NOTICE that on July 19, 2012, 1:00 pm local time, or any adjourned date thereafter, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan (which is the building where the Circuit Court for Barry County is held). The Mortgagee will apply the sale proceeds to the debt secured by the Mortgage as stated above, plus interest on the amount due at the rate of 4.5% per annum; all legal costs and expenses, including attorneys fees allowed by law; and also any amount paid by the Mortgagee to protect its interest in the property. The property to be sold at foreclosure is all of that real estate situated in the County of Barry, State of Michigan, described as: BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE NORTH LINE OF SECTION 20, TOWN 3 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, RUTLAND TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, DISTANT SOUTH 88 DEGREES 50 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, 1326.54 FEET FROM THE NORTH ONE QUARTER CORNER OF SAID SECTION 20; THENCE SOUTH 88 DEGREES 50 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST 237.58 FEET ALONG SAID NORTH LINE; THENCE SOUTH 29 DEGREES 55 MINUTES 14 SECONDS EAST, 965.21 FEET TO THE CENTERLINE OF GUN LAKE ROAD; THENCE SOUTH 60 DEGREES 04 MINUTES 46 SECONDS WEST, 377.95 FEET ALONG THE CENTERLINE; THENCE NORTH 00 DEGREES 15 MINUTES 13 SECONDS EAST, 174.37 FEET; THENCE NORTH 88 DEGREES 50 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST, 396.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 00 DEGREES 15 MINUTES 13 SECONDS EAST, 847.50 FEET ALONG THE WEST LINE OF THE EAST ONE HALF OF THE NORTHEAST ONE QUARTER OF SAID SECTION 20 TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. TOGETHER WITH A MUTUAL PRIVATE EASEMENT FOR DRIVEWAY PURPOSES TO BE USED IN COMMON WITH OTHERS, 66 FEET WIDE, 33 FEET EACH SIDE OF A CENTERLINE, DESCRIBED AS: COMMENCING AT THE NORTH ONE QUARTER CORNER OF SAID SECTION 20; THENCE SOUTH 88 DEGREES 50 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, 1,564.12 FEET ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SAID SECTION 20; THENCE SOUTH 29 DEGREES 55 MINUTES 14 SECONDS EAST, 890.21 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING OF SAID CENTERLINE; THENCE SOUTH 29 DEGREES 55 MINUTES 14 SECONDS EAST, 75.00 FEET TO THE CENTERLINE OF GUN LAKE ROAD, AND THE END OF SAID DESCRIBED CENTERLINE. Tax Identification Number: 08-13020-008-40 The redemption period shall be six months from the date of sale pursuant to MCLA 600.3240(8), unless deemed abandoned and then pursuant to MCLA 600.3241a. June 8, 2012 UNITED BANK MORTGAGE CORPORATION, Mortgagee PLUNKETT COONEY KELLI L. BAKER (P49960) Attorney for Mortgagee 333 Bridge Street NW, Suite 530 Grand Rapids, Michigan 49504 77568691 (616) 752-4624 (06-14)(07-12) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage, made by EASTWOOD MANAGEMENT LLC, a Michigan Limited Liability Company, whose address is 1340 Forrester SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49508, as Mortgagor, to MERLIN T. SUTHERLAND, a married man, whose address is 6155 Oakmont Landing, Alto, Michigan 49302, as assigned in the Barry County Register of Deeds to Knowlco, LLC, whose address is 8379 White Pine, Middleville, Michigan 49333, and securing that certain Note between Scott T. Sutherland, as Debtor and Merlin T. Sutherland, as Creditor, dated July 13, 2001, and pursuant to that certain guarantee wherein Mortgagor, Eastwood Management LLC, guaranteed the Note mentioned above and secured the guarantee with Mortgage described above. There is claimed to be due thereon, at the date of this notice, for principal and interest, the sum of THIRTY THOUSAND AND 00/100-($30,000.00) Dollars with interest at the rate of 0%, as secured by the above-referenced mortgage as of this date. There also shall be attorneys fees, unpaid real estate taxes and costs. And no proceedings having been instituted to recover the debt now remaining secured by said Mortgage, or any part thereof, whereby the power of sale contained in said Mortgage has become operative; NOW, THEREFORE, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that by virtue of the Power of Sale contained in said Mortgages, and in pursuance of the statute in such case made and provided, the above said Mortgage, will be foreclosed by a sale of the parcels of the premises therein described, or so much thereof as may be necessary, at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse, County of Barry, Michigan, that being the place of holding the Circuit Court in and for said County on the 12th day of July, 2012, at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, of said day and said premises will be sold to pay the amount so as aforesaid then due on said Mortgage, together with interest payable at the rate of 0%, together with late fees, legal costs, attorneys fees and also any taxes and insurance that said Mortgagee does pay on or prior to the date of said sale together with interest thereon as though on an open account at the rate of 5% per annum; which said premises are described in said Mortgage, to-wit: PARCEL 1: LOTS 4, 5, 6, 7 AND 8, HASTINGS HEIGHTS, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF IN LIBER 3 OF PLATS, ON PAGE 41 AND THE VACATED ALLEY TO THE NORTH ADJACENT THERETO. PARCEL 2: COMMENCING AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF LOT 8, HASTINGS HEIGHTS, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF IN LIBER 3 OF PLATS, ON PAGE 41; THENCE NORTH 1° EAST, 33 FEET FOR THE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE CONTINUING NORTH 1° EAST, 160 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 88° 30’ EAST, 330 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 1° WEST, 160 FEET; THENCE NORTH 88° 30’ WEST 330 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. Commonly known as: 405 E Woodlawn, Hastings, MI 49058 The period of redemption will be six (6) months from date of sale. Dated: June 8, 2012 David H. Tripp, Attorney for Knowlco LLC Drafted by: David H. Tripp (P29290) Tripp & Tagg, Attorneys at Law 206 South Broadway Hastings, Michigan 49058 77568706 (269) 945-9585 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Bonnie M. Sofia, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 3, 2002, and recorded on July 9, 2002 in instrument 1083477, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Six Thousand Eight Hundred Ten and 98/100 Dollars ($96,810.98). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 5, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 64 of Lakewood Estates, according to the recorded plat thereof as recorded in Liber 4 of plats on Page 19, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 7, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #150768F02 (06-07)(06-28 77568537 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Sallie K. Stambaugh and Greg L. Stambaugh, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated February 24, 2005, and recorded on March 4, 2005 in instrument 1142271, and assigned by said Mortgagee to DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY AS TRUSTEE FOR T HE HOLDERS OF IXIS REAL ESTATE CAPITAL TRUST 2005-HE3 MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES,SERIES 2005-HE3 as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Five Thousand Three Hundred Ten and 02/100 Dollars ($105,310.02). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 28, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel A: A parcel of land in the Northwest 1/4 of Section 36, town 3 North, Range 7 West described as: Commencing at a point 17 1/2 rods East of the Northwest corner of Section 36, running thence South 9 1/2 rods; thence East 9 1/2 rods to the West line of Main Street in the Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan; thence North along the West lien of said Main Street 9 1/2 rods to the Section line of the North side of said Section 36; thence West along said Section line 9 1/2 rods to the place of beginning, excepting a parcel 26 feet square out of the Southeast corner thereof, which said parcel was deeded to the Consumers Power Company. Parcel B: A parcel of land in the Northwest 1/4 of Section 36, Town 3 North, Range 7 West, Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner of said Section 36; thence East 17 1/2 rods; thence South 9 1/2 rods; thence West 17 1/2 rods; thence North 9 1/2 rods to the place of beginning The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 31, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #401425F01 77568270 (05-31)(06-21) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Erin Merritt, a single woman and John F. Merritt, a married man and Jane Merritt, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 18, 2008, and recorded on April 24, 2008 in instrument 20080424-0004444, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Chase Home Finance LLC as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thousand Five Hundred Twenty-Three and 17/100 Dollars ($100,523.17). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 21, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North 1/2 of Lot 997 and the East 1/2 of the North 1/2 of Lot 998 of City Formerly Village of Hastings, according to the Plat thereof recorded in Liber A of Plats, Page 1 of Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 24, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #340480F02 (05-24)(06-14) 77568078 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE MORTGAGE SALE-Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a mortgage made by DONALD F. HERRICK and ANNE K. HERRICK, husband and wife, of 5885 LAMMERS RD., HASTINGS, MI 49058, Mortgagor(s) to MORTGAGE CENTER, LC, of 29621 NORTHWESTERN HIGHWAY, SOUTHFIELD, MI 48034, Mortgagee, dated AUGUST 22, 2003, and recorded on SEPTEMBER 3, 2003, in INSTRUMENT NO. 1112348 in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, and State of Michigan on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, for principal and interest, the sum of EIGHTY-NINE THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED SEVENTY-NINE AND 10/100THS ($89,579.10) DOLLARS with interest at 6.125% percent per annum, and attorney fees as provided for in said Mortgage and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said Mortgage or any part hereof, NOW, THEREFORE, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to the statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on JULY 5, 2012, at 1:00 P.M., local time, said Mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, inside the Barry County Circuit Court Building in the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan (that being the building where the Circuit Court for Barry County is held), of the premises described in said Mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due, as aforesaid, on said Mortgage, with interest thereon and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sum or sums which may be paid by the undersigned, necessary to protect its interest in the premises. Which said premises are described as follows: All the certain pieces or parcels of land situate in the TOWNSHIP OF HOPE, COUNTY OF BARRY, AND STATE OF MICHIGAN, to wit: BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE WEST LINE OF SECTION 11, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, DISTANT NORTH 390 FEET FROM THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF SECTION 11; THENCE NORTH 307 FEET, MORE OR LESS ALONG THE WEST LINE OF SECTION 11 TO A POINT 381 FEET SOUTH OF THE NORTH LINE OF THE SOUTH 49 ACRES OF THE WEST 3 / 4 OF THE SOUTHWEST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 11; THENCE EAST 360 FEET PARALLEL WITH SAID NORTH LINE: THENCE SOUTH 307 FEET MORE OR LESS TO A POINT 390 FEET NORTH OF THE SOUTH LINE OF SAID SECTION: THENCE WEST 360 FEET TO THE WEST SECTION LINE AND THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. SAID REAL ESTATE IS IMPROVED WITH, AMONG OTHER IMPROVEMENTS, A MANUFACTURED HOME UNIT*. BORROWERS ACKNOWLEDGE THAT THIS UNIT IS A PART OF THE REAL PROPERTY HEREBY SECURED BY THIS MORTGAGE. *1994 CENTURY MOBILE HOME, SERIAL NO. MY9534929ABF. MORE COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 5885 LAMMERS ROAD, HASTINGS, MI 49058 During the SIX (6) months immediately following the sale, the property may be redeemed, except that in the event that the property is determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241 a, the property may be redeemed during the thirty (30) days immediately following the sale. _____________________________ KENNETH C. BUTLER II (P 28477) ATTORNEY FOR MORTGAGEE 24525 HARPER AVENUE ST. CLAIR SHORES, MI 48080 (586) 777-0770 77568282 Dated: 05-31-12 (05-31)(06-28) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 14, 2012 — Page 13 LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Steven Elenbaas and Lynda Elenbaas, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 20, 2009, and recorded on May 6, 2009 in instrument 20090506-0004870, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Freedom Mortgage Corporation as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-Three Thousand One Hundred Ninety-Three and 07/100 Dollars ($163,193.07). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 21, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North 1/2 of Lots 49 and 50 on Thornapple Riverside, Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 55. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 24, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #334970F02 77568085 (05-24)(06-14) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on October 26, 2007, by Scott C. Mueller, a single man, as Mortgagor, given by him to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on October 26, 2007, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 20071026-0003530, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank on June 3, 2011, recorded on June 13, 2011, in Instrument Number 201106130005798, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of One Hundred Five Thousand One Hundred Thirty and 66/100 Dollars ($105,130.66); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, July 5, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF BALTIMORE, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: That part of the Southeast quarter of Section 4, Town 2 North, Range 8 West, lying South of the highway running East and West through said quarter Section, except therefrom: Commencing at the Southeast corner of said Section 4; thence North on Section line 9.25 Chains to the center of said highway; thence North 85 Degrees West along the center of said highway 10.37 Chains; thence South 10.10 Chains to the South Section line; thence East on said Section Line 10.34 Chains to place of beginning. Also excepting therefrom: Commencing at the South quarter Post of Section 4, Town 2 North, Range 8 West, thence North along the North-South quarter line to the center of Mixer Road; thence East 620 Feet; thence South parallel with the North-South quarter line to the South Section line of said Section 4; thence West 620 Feet to place of beginning. Commonly known as: 1634 Mixer Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058 Parcel Number: 08-02-004-452-00 The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: May 29, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933 (517) 371-8253 (05-31)(06-21) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTENTION PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE: Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage by Jason L. Watson and Deena L. Watson, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Kellogg Community Federal Credit Union, Mortgagee, dated July 27, 2005, and recorded on August 22, 2005, in Instrument No. 1151437, in Barry County records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Sixty-six Thousand Two Hundred Fifty and 00/100 Dollars ($266,250.00), including interest at 5.0% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the lobby of the Calhoun County Justice Center, 161 E. Michigan Avenue, Battle Creek, Michigan 490144066, at 1 p.m. on Thursday, July 26, 2012. Said premises is situated in the Township of Hope, County of Barry, Michigan, and described as: The Southwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 23, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, excepting therefrom the South 726 feet thereof. PPN: 08-07-023-002-15 More Commonly Known As: 7807 N. Lammers Rd., Delton, MI 49046 The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be thirty (30) days from the date of such sale. Dated: June 11, 2012 For more information, please call: KELLOGG COMMUNITY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION Mark D. Hofstee (P66001) Bolhouse, Baar & Lefere, P.C. Grandville State Bank Building 3996 Chicago Drive SW Grandville MI 49418-1384 77568723 (616) 531-7711 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Trevor Brown, an unmarried man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Amerifirst Financial Corporation, its successors or assigns., Mortgagee, dated November 12, 2010 and recorded November 17, 2010 in Instrument Number 201011170010817, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Six Thousand Four Hundred Forty-Five and 87/100 Dollars ($66,445.87) including interest at 4.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 06/28/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The following premises County of Barry and State of Michigan: Lot 28 of West Beach, according to the Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, Page(s) 67, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: May 31, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 682.2896 77568311 (05-31)(06-21) 77568304 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED 2012-2013 BUDGET PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that on June 18, 2012, at 7:30 p.m. in the multi-purpose room of Hastings Middle School, 232 West Grand Street, Hastings, Michigan, the Board of Education of the Hastings Area School System will hold a public hearing to consider the system's proposed 2012-2013 budget. The Board of Education may not adopt its proposed 2012-2013 budget until after the public hearing. A copy of the proposed 2012-2013 budget, including the proposed property tax millage rate, is available for public inspection during normal business hours at 232 West Grand Street, Hastings, Michigan. The property tax millage rate, proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget, will be a subject of the hearing. This notice is given by order of the Board of Education. Donna L. Garrison, Secretary Hastings Board of Education 77568736 STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Trust In the Matter of The Alton E. Close and Dorothy F. Close Revocable Living Trust u/t/a dated August 12, 2004. Date of Birth: December 8, 1926 Dorothy F. Close. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Dorothy F. Close, surviving Trustee, died May 29, 2012 leaving the above trust entitled “The Alton E. Close and Dorothy F. Close Revocable Living Trust” in full force and effect. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the decedent or against the Trust will be forever barred unless presented to Bruce Cook within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: June 7, 2012 Law Weathers Stephanie S. Fekkes P43549 150 W. Court Street Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 945-1921 Bruce Cook 11609 Bowens Mill Road Middleville, MI 49333 77568689 (269) 795-7315 STATE OF MICHIGAN BARRY COUNTY TRIAL COURT FAMILY DIVISION PUBLICATION AND NOTICE OF FRIEND OF THE COURT ANNUAL STATUTORY REVIEW PUBLIC NOTICE ANNUAL REVIEW OF PERFORMANCE RECORD OF THE FRIEND OF THE COURT Under Michigan law, the Chief Family Judge annually reviews the performance record of the Friend of the Court. The review will be conducted on or about July 1, 2012. This review is limited by law to the following criteria: • Whether the Friend of the Court is guilty of misconduct, neglect of statutory duty, or failure to carry out the written orders of the court relative to a statutory duty; • Whether the purpose of the Friend of the Court Act are being met; • Whether the duties of the Friend of the Court are being carried out in a manner that reflects the needs of the community. Members of the public may submit written comments to the Chief Family Judge relating to these criteria. Send your written comments, with your name and address to: Honorable William M. Doherty Barry County Trial Court, Family Division 206 W. Court Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Rosemary Ann Davis, a married woman and Joel C. Davis, as to homestead rights only, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 9, 2007, and recorded on August 20, 2007 in instrument 20070820-0001071, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Chemical Bank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Five Thousand Five Hundred Fifty-Five and 96/100 Dollars ($105,555.96). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 12, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 11, Plat of Thornton Addition, Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats, Page 72. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 14, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #396291F01 (06-14)(07-05) 77568669 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Kyle C. Rickert, and, Stacia Rickert, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 4, 2008, and recorded on April 14, 2008 in instrument 20080414-0004028, and assigned by said Mortgagee to SunTrust Mortgage, Inc. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Three Thousand Four Hundred Forty-Four and 37/100 Dollars ($133,444.37). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 12, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 284,285,286,287 and 304, AL-GON-QUIN Lake Resort Properties Unit No. 2, as recorded in Liber 2, Page 63 of Plats, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 14, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #390522F01 77568674 (06-14)(07-05) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Stan L. Monks, a Single Man to Option One Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated August 15, 2005 and recorded August 22, 2005 in Instrument # 1151436 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Soundview Home Loan Trust 2005OPT3, Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2005OPT3, by assignment dated May 2, 2012 and recorded May 10, 2012 in Instrument Number 201205100005418 , on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Thousand Six Hundred Thirty-Five Dollars and Twenty-Nine Cents ($200,635.29) including interest 6.99% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on June 21, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North one-half of the North one-half of the Southeast one-quarter of Section 8, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, except the South 220 feet of the East 750 feet of the North one-half of the North one-half of the Southeast onequarter of Section 8, Town 4 North, Range 9 West. Except; beginning at a point on the East and West one-quarter line of Section 8, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, distant North 89 degrees 29 minutes 20 seconds West, 1353.00 feet from the East onequarter corner of said Section 8; thence South 05 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West, 660.00 feet to the South line of the North one-half of the North one-half of the Northeast one-quarter of said Section 8; thence North 89 degrees 27 minutes West, 1228.6 feet along said South line to the North and South one-quarter line of Section 8; thence North 00 degrees 29 minutes 40 seconds East, 657.2 feet along said North and South line to the center one-quarter corner of said Section 8; thence South 89 degrees 29 minutes 20 seconds East, 1280.4 feet along said East and West one-quarter line to the point of beginning. Commonly known as 6225 N Solomon Rd, Middleville MI 49333 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 5/24/2012 Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Soundview Home Loan Trust 2005-OPT3, AssetBacked Certificates, Series 2005-OPT3, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-61560 (0577568125 24)(06-14) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Jeffrey Lynn Smith, a single man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated August 4, 2011 and recorded August 10, 2011 in Instrument Number 201108100007599, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Wells Fargo Bank, NA by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fourteen Thousand Nine Hundred ThirtyFour and 84/100 Dollars ($114,934.84) including interest at 4.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 07/05/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Maple Grove, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 39 and 40, Fuller Heights, according to the Plat thereof recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 49, Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: June 7, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 326.8902 77568584 (06-07)(06-28) 77568651 Synopsis ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING June 5, 2012 Meeting called to order at 7:00. All board members present. Approved minutes from the May 1, 2012 regular board meeting and the May 15, 2012 special meeting. Treasurer’s report read and put on file. Fire report read and put on file. County Commissioner report read. Library report read. Parks and Recreation report read. Public Comment received. Approved motion to delete final sentence of paragraph E ordinance 1-02 page 5 of cemetery ordinance regarding cremation burial with full burial. Approved paying of the bills. Approval of hiring a scribe to take monthly meeting minutes failed with a roll call vote of 3 to 2. Approved motion to adjourn. Respectfully submitted, Jennifer Goy, Clerk 77568728 Attested to by Thomas Rook, Supervisor Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Danney Ellard, also known as Dan Ellard, a single man, original mortgagor(s), to Credit Union Mortgage Company, Mortgagee, dated July 25, 2002, and recorded on July 30, 2002 in instrument 1084628, and assigned by mesne assignments to MidFirst Bank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Three Thousand Five Hundred Seventy-Three and 25/100 Dollars ($73,573.25). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 5, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 2, 3, 4 and 5 of Reese Acres, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats, on Page 73 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 7, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #379423F02 77568360 (06-07)(06-28) FORECLOSURE NOTICE RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES, P.C. MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. Mortgage Sale - Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by Vicky Root, and Douglas C Root, wife and husband to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. acting solely as a nominee for Quicken Loans Inc., Mortgagee, dated November 17, 2006, and recorded on December 5, 2006, as Document Number: 1173504, Barry County Records, said mortgage was assigned to Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee of the Home Equity Mortgage Loan Asset-Backed Trust Series INABS 2007-B, Home Equity Mortgage Loan AssetBacked Certificates, Series INABS 2007-B under the Pooling and Servicing agreement dated June 1, 2007 by an Assignment of Mortgage dated April 19, 2012 and recorded April 26, 2012 by Document Number: 201204260004904, , on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Three Thousand One Hundred Ninety-Four and 20/100 ($93,194.20) including interest at the rate of 6.62500% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the Circuit Court in said Barry County, where the premises to be sold or some part of them are situated, at 01:00 PM on June 21, 2012 Said premises are situated in the Township of CASTLETON, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 31, TOWN 3 NORTH, RANGE 7 WEST Commonly known as: 3494 S MORGAN RD If the property is eventually sold at foreclosure sale, the redemption period will be 6.00 months from the date of sale unless the property is abandoned or used for agricultural purposes. If the property is determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 and/or 600.3241a, the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of sale, or 15 days after statutory notice, whichever is later. If the property is presumed to be used for agricultural purposes prior to the date of the foreclosure sale pursuant to MCL 600.3240, the redemption period is 1 year. Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages are, if any, limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: May 24, 2012 Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee of the Home Equity Mortgage Loan Asset-Backed Trust Series INABS 2007-B, Home Equity Mortgage Loan AssetBacked Certificates, Series INABS 2007-B under the Pooling and Servicing agreement dated June 1, 2007 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302, (248) 335-9200 Case 77568115 No. 12MI01177-1 (05-24)(06-14) �Page 14 — Thursday, June 14, 2012 — The Hastings Banner INVESTIGATION, continued from page 1 City band begins new season with old drum City band members (from left) Craig Holley, Jeff Buehl and director Joe LaJoye led the effort to refurbish a vintage Ludwig concert bass drum much like those used by Hastings City Bands in the 1800s. The 2012 Hastings City Band began its 2012 season last night and will continue for the next four Wednesdays. Concerts are Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. on the Barry County Courthouse lawn. Participants are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to sit on to view the drum and enjoy the concerts. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 For Sale Business Services Garage Sale 100% WOOD HEAT, no worries. Keep your family safe and warm with an Outdoor Wood Furnace from Central Boiler. D-2 Outdoor Wood Boilers. (616)877-4081. 3 FAMILY YARD SALE: Friday, June 15th, 9-5 and Saturday, June 26th, 9-3. Girls and boys clothes, furniture, appliances, household items, soccer cleats, etc. 2744 Foxglove Dri., off East State AFFORDABLE PROPANE Rd. past Woodschool Rd. FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call HUGE POLE BARN SALE! for a free quote. Diamond Lots of tools, many are Propane 269-367-9700 Craftsman. Generators, band saws, circular saws, air guns, CLASS OF 2012 HASTINGS too many to mention! Also HIGH SCHOOL GRADUA- several long guns. Thurs., TION CEREMONY PIC- Fri., Sat., June 14th, 15th, TURES ONLINE @ dgpictur- 16th, 9am-5pm. 5538 E. Orethisphotography.com chard, Delton. 6/10 of a mile (269)948-4669 east of downtown Delton. Call for better directions EXCEPTIONAL PER- (269)209-5064 or (269)623FORMANCE & CONVEN- 5983 IENCE 97% efficient. EPA qualified. Central Boiler ENational Ads Classic Outdoor Wood FurPUBLICATION nace Sale. Call SOS your THIS “Stocking Dealer” Dutton, DOES NOT KNOWINGLY MI (616)554-8669 or accept advertising which is deceptive, fraudulent or (619)915-5061. might otherwise violate law FOR SALE: 6 PERSON HOT or accepted standards of TUB. New motor, new cov- taste. However, this publicaer, works great. You can see tion does not warrant or it run. $1,000.00. Call guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the (517)507-9941. quality of goods or services advertised. Readers are cauLawn & Garden tioned to thoroughly investiAQUATIC PLANTS: OUR gate all claims made in any Lotus & Water Lilies are advertisements, and to use ready! Also Koi & Goldfish, good judgment and reasonapumps, filters & pond sup- ble care, particularly when plies. APOLS WATER dealing with persons unGARDENS, 9340 Kalama- known to you ask for money zoo, Caledonia MI. (616)698- in advance of delivery of 1030 M-F 9:00-5:30, Sat 9:00- goods or services advertised. 2:00. DO YOU WANT QUALITY PRINTING at affordable prices? Call J-Ad Graphics at (269)945-9554. PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 BOOKKEEPING SERVICES Personal * Self-Employed * Small Business Payroll * Billing Accounts Receivable * Accounts Payable General Ledger Weekly * Monthly * Quarterly * Annually Call today! (269)420-5714 Help Wanted 25 DRIVER TRAINEES Needed NOW! Become a driver for Schneider National! Earn $750 per week! No experience needed! Local CDL Training! Job ready in 15 days! 1-877-649-2697. DRIVERS: Home Every Other Day! Dedicated Holland, MI to KC, MO. CDL-A, 1yr OTR. Avg. 3000 miles/week! MTS: 800-7480192 x208/x214. WOODLAWN MEADOWS RETIREMENT VILLAGE is currently accepting applications for part-time Resident Caregivers on all shifts. Please apply in person at 1821 N. East St. Hastings. Recreation WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are interested in leasing acreage for this years deer season. Call (269)795-3049 Wanted BUYING OLD POCKET watches, old wind up wrist watches, working or not working. Call George (616)916-8271 BUYING WWII, WWI, Civil War uniforms, weapons, helmets, bayonets, German, Japanese, and American. Call George (616)916-8271 Estate Sale ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. Antiques ALLEGAN ANTIQUE MARKET: Sunday, June 24th. 400 exhibitors, rain or shine. 8:00am-4:00pm. Located at the fairgrounds right in Allegan, MI. $4.00 admission. NO PETS. embezzling between $20,000 to $50,000 through the distribution of fuel cards to several companies from which he never collected the payable debts. Charges were dropped after Blair agreed to pay the outstanding debt to the airport. Tuesday, a perplexed group of commissioners was again scratching its collective head and asking how the situation could have happened once more. “This is most unfortunate because it casts an unnecessary negative light on the rest of our employees, our board and our administration,” said Houtman. “This is the third time we’ve encountered this issue. Michael, I hope that you’ll come back with a recommendation on how we can prevent this — do we need to step up our independent, internal audits?” Dave DeHaan, partner with Walker Fluke and Sheldon who will lead the upcoming internal audit of the Veterans Affairs program, responded that random independent audits might be one response but that he has more work to do before being in a position to make recommendations. “There are some options out there,” conceded DeHaan. “You could hire a full-time internal auditor, but you have to look at the cost and reward factors. You could also, maybe once a month, hire somebody who comes in on a surprise basis and does an internal audit on an unannounced specific area or program.” Commissioner Dan Parker said he liked the latter suggestion, stating that just the potential element of surprise can serve as a good deterrent. But, in either case, Commissioner Don Nevins was adamant. “It’s not if we can afford it,” said Nevins; “it’s we have to afford it.” DeHaan was careful to point out to commissioners, though, that fraud is an opportunistic crime and that even external and internal audits — announced and surprise audits — cannot totally eliminate the possibility. “We helped prepare you [for the Rehman Robson audit],” pointed out DeHaan, “but were we looking for fraud? No. Our intent was to be sure that financial statements were not materially misstated. Steven and Kristin [Rehman Robson auditors] were looking at internal controls. Do we look at everything? No, you’re too big.” DeHaan informed commissioners that fraud seminars he’s attended in the past consistently stated that discovering fraud by external audits account for only 5 percent of all occurrences. Discovering fraud by a tip accounts for 60 percent of all such occurrences. Commissioners still pushed for explanations. Howard “Hoot” Gibson asked if the latest occurrence could have been prevented if two signatures on all checks was required. Commissioner Jeff VanNortwick asked, when the commission decentralized its committee structure and did away with a finance committee, whether that left open an opportunity for dishonest behavior. “Out of luck, you may have caught it,” acknowledged Brown, of the abandoned finance committee, “but the way the [former finance] committee was structured, it looked at vouchers and the check register to be sure the check went out. This instance [of fraud] had an underlying cause ... we have to look deeper at controls.” “This is the first time that I’ve dealt with this,” said Ben Geiger, who as vice chair, was substituting for Chair Craig Stolsonburg Tuesday. “The real injustice here is to our veterans because this was money for them. We need to recoup that money.” How that will be done and what to expect next was left unaddressed. A call from the Banner to County Prosecutor Tom Evans indicated that the sheriff department’s investigation is ongoing and that no report has been made to Evans. To Nevins’ concern that the process not interfere with future delivery of benefits to veterans, Brown replied that any claims or concerns be directed to his office. “I don’t have the credentials,” conceded Brown, “but part of my conversation with the state was at the level of putting an interim program together and then looking at a longterm solution to this program.” “You’re right, we do need to recoup the money,” said Houtman in summation remarks regarding Geiger’s comment, “but Michigan is near 50th among the state rankings in providing benefits to veterans. We’ve got to find ways to bring more benefits in here for veterans.” In other business, the commission: • Approved participation in the West Michigan Regional Planning Commission and a regional Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy as well as the contribution of $1,414, or one-half the total amount, of 2012 dues. • Approved a $28,495 bid from Anderson Builders for a Housing Quality Standard Rehab program house at 628 W. Madison St. in Hastings. • Approved expenditure of $206,550 for the Hastings City/Barry County Airport Commission to construct a six-unit box hangar in accordance with a project proposal submission by Stedfast Construction Inc. • Approved deposit of $252,657 in excess net assets from the Michigan Municipal Risk Management Authority into the building rehabilitation funds to be used for security improvements to the courthouse buildings. • Approved a contract with Beth Botke to provide commercial and industrial appraisal update services to the county for 2012. • Approved a proclamation designating June 15 as Elder Abuse Awareness Day in Barry County. • Received a recommendation from Jim Brown, Hastings Township supervisor and volunteer on the Animal Shelter 2000 committee, that the commission form a standing Animal Control/Shelter board similar to other county-structured boards as a means of addressing Animal Control issues. • Agreed to move the June 19 meeting from commission chambers to the Barry County Circuit Court to accommodate a larger attendance expected for the commission’s scheduled discussion of the Animal Control issue. POLICE BEAT Driver fails some tests, refuses another A Hastings Police Officer noticed a vehicle weaving in the area of State Road and Michigan Avenue June 6. The 24-year-old Hastings driver was stopped for suspicion of operating while intoxicated after turning onto North Boltwood Street. After attempting sobriety tests, the driver refused a requested Breathalyzer test. He was arrested, and suspected marijuana was located during a search. The man was charged with operating while intoxicated, possession of marijuana, and cited for refusing a Breathalyzer test. Ex makes up story about girlfriend’s gun-toting dad Barry County Sheriff Deputies received a phone call May 29 about a possible felonious assault. The man said his girlfriend’s father had threatened him with a gun. He told deputies that when he and his girlfriend pulled into the girl’s Uldricks Road driveway, her father came out of the house with a handgun and told him to get off the property. Deputies made contact with the father at his residence. He denied the incident and said he had not even seen the boyfriend. He told deputies his daughter had broken up with the complainant. The father said the boyfriend was calling and texting his daughter non-stop and filling her phone mailbox. The messages were allegedly threatening in nature, some threatening to get her in trouble with the police. When deputies contacted the woman, she played some of the phone messages. She also claimed the 42-year-old Battle Creek man had stolen property from her garage and told her to call him if she wanted the property returned. The woman told deputies she did not want to file charges against her ex-boyfriend, but was going to get a personal protection order against him. When the boyfriend was contacted again by deputies he told the same story and denied any accusations against him. He was told the report was being forwarded to the prosecutor’s office. June 1, the complainant called to drop all charges against the girl’s father. A warrant was requested on the ex-boyfriend for filing a false police report. Cousins have property dispute Deputies responded to an assault complaint at a South Broadway residence June 2. The 29-year-old Hastings man accused of the assault said he had been in a verbal dispute with his cousin who was in a building farther back on the property. He said there was no physical confrontation, but his cousin was not supposed to be in the building. When deputies talked to the complainant, the cousin, he told them the man had punched him in the face and bent his glasses. Reportedly, the man’s glasses were visibly bent. The victim said he did not want to press charges, but wanted his cousin told not to strike him. The case is closed. Man’s friend shares medical card and more Deputies stopped the driver of a Silverado pickup truck on Keller Road near Otis Lake Road June 2 for not wearing a seat belt. While asking for the man’s driver’s license, deputies reported smelling burnt marijuana from inside the vehicle. The 28-year-old Delton man admitted to smoking marijuana 15 minutes prior to the traffic stop and when asked said he did not have a medical marijuana card. He said the friend he was smoking with did have a medical marijuana card. Deputies asked the man if there was more marijuana or weapons in the vehicle and were told no. The man was placed under arrest for driving under the influence. A deputy searched the vehicle and found a glass jar containing what he reported as marijuana. The man was taken to Pennock Hospital for a blood draw and a sample was sent to the Michigan State Police Forensic Lab for analysis. The arrest report was forwarded to the prosecutor’s office. Defendant brings supplies to court A 20-year-old Hickory Corners man was in Barry County Circuit Court June 7 for sentencing on a separate case and was taken into custody. When deputies searched the man, they discovered a hypodermic needle and a spoon with residue in his jacket. The case is open pending lab analysis. Man takes the high road into town Hastings Police received a call about a possible drunk driver heading into Hastings on South Hanover June 5 around 2:15 p.m. A description of the car along with the license plate number had been given to dispatch and relayed to the officer. The officer confirmed the registration plate as he followed and observed the suspected driver. After the driver was seen making a slow wide turn into an opposing traffic lane, the driver was stopped in a parking lot on Court Street near Michigan Avenue. Officers observed the 41-year-old Hastings man’s actions, speech, driving ability and an odor of alcohol on his breath. He registered a .34 percent blood alcohol level. He was lodged at the Barry County Jail and charged with operating with a high blood alcohol content of .17 percent or higher. Vacant school draws traffic June 8 deputies were dispatched to the old Pleasantview School on Lacey Road for a reported alarm activation. Central Dispatch staff repoted that a motion detector had activated in the school’s hallway. While en route, a deputy contacted Michigan State Police. Troopers had handled two breaking and entering cases earlier in the week. The suspects had stolen copper piping in those incidents. Upon inspection by deputies, the current trespassers had pried the west door open with a crow bar. The building was secure and nothing had been taken, according to the building’s keyholder. The case is closed. Cyclist struck while cruising through Price of beauty intersection proves to be high A car and bicycle accident at the intersection of South Boltwood and East Center streets brought Hastings Police to the scene June 9. Officers determined that a 57-yearold Hastings man, Gary Englerth, had been bicycling westbound on Center Street, after coming down a hill near Hanover Street. A witness reported seeing the cyclist go down the hill and continue to ride fast into the intersection where a southbound van struck him. The 46-year-old Hastings woman, Ruth Ibbotson, driving a 2005 Dodge Caravan, was not injured in the incident and is not suspected of any wrongdoing. According to Chief Jerry Sarver, Englerth allegedly ignored a stop sign on Center Street. He was transported to Pennock Hospital by Mercy Ambulance, where he is being treated for injuries not suspected of being life threatening. A Hastings Walmart employee contacted deputies on a shoplifting matter June 7 involving three subjects, all from Nashville. The three were being detained at the store, but the employee told deputies they were not cooperating. The employee said she witnessed the trio pushing a cart through the health and beauty section and then into the lawn and garden section as one of the three put the merchandise into a bag and attempted to leave the store. In all, 18 items were taken with a value of $113. After questioning all three, the deputy put a 19-year-old woman under arrest. A 28year-old female and 20-year-old male were released. Warrants are being sought on all three subjects for retail fraud. A report has been forwarded to the prosecutor’s office for review. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 14, 2012 — Page 15 DK’s multi-sport athletes finalize collegiate plans by Brett Bremer Sports Editor There wasn’t a whole lot of specialization among the eight Delton Kellogg seniors who gathered to celebrate their collegiate athletic plans Wednesday morning at Delton Kellogg High School . The outliers among the group were Alea Hammond, Mitchell Wandell and Nick Brindley. Their five classmates, Adrianna Culbert, Tyler Dempsey, Kami McCowan, Andrea Polley and Ryan Watson were all three-sport varsity athletes. Hammond played two varsity sports. Wandell and Brindley, four each. “It’s just amazing,” Brindley said of the group of eight from the class of about 100 that are going on to play sports on the next level. “We put out a ton of college athletes this year, and a lot of all-conference, all-county, Delton Kellogg High School honored eight graduating seniors Wednesday who are going to continue their athletic careers on the collegiate level. The group included (front from left) Alea Hammond (Kellogg Community College - soccer), Adrianna Culbert (Colorado State - volleyball), Kami McCowan (Kalamazoo Valley Community College - softball), Andrea Polley (Kellogg Community College - basketball & volleyball), (back) Nick Brindley (Hope College - football), Mitchell Wandell (Davenport golf), Ryan Watson (Albion - basketball) and Tyler Dempsey (Grand Valley wrestling). (Photo by Brett Bremer) all-everything.” Brindley was a member of the Delton Kellogg varsity football, boys’ basketball, baseball and boys’ track and field teams. He is headed to Hope College to play football, likely as a wide receiver. “I had a lot of walk-on offers, but I had just one scholarship offer,” Brindley said. “I went to Hope and just loved everything about the whole campus and all the athletic facilities and everything. They’re really nice. I fell in love with it as soon as I went there, and I went to a camp there in made a ton of friends that I still talk to, and I love the coaches.” Wandell was a part of the varsity football, boys’ soccer, boys’ basketball and boys’ track and field teams, and said he is going to Davenport University to play golf and basketball. Wandell is one of three Panthers who plan on playing basketball at the next level. Polley plans to play volleyball and basketball at Kellogg Community College. Watson, the class’ valedictorian, is going to play basketball at Albion. Watson and Culbert were both Academic All-State selections, Watson in basketball and Culbert in volleyball. Culbert, an All-American volleyball player is the lone athlete headed to a Division 1 school. She will join the Colorado State University Women’s Volleyball program. She is also the only one headed out of state. Hammond plans to play soccer for Kellogg Community College. McCowan is headed to Kalamazoo Valley Community College to play softball. Dempsey plans to wrestle for the Grand Valley State University club team. “It doesn’t come very often that we have so many exceptional athletes in one grade,” Dempsey said. They were not only exceptional individually, they were a part of and helped lead exceptional teams. All eight of them won at least one conference or district championship during their senior seasons. Conference titles were won by the Delton Kellogg volleyball (Culbert, Polley, McCowan) boys’ track and field (Dempsey, Brindley, Watson), boys’ basketball (Brindley, Watson, Wandell), and competitive cheer teams (McCowan). The girls’ basketball team (Hammond, Culbert) won its first district championship. Basketball and track and field Kalamazoo Valley Association championships were a couple of the highlights of the year for Brindley and Watson. Brindley and Dempsey were both also quick to mention the varsity football team’s victory at Waldo Stadium as one of the highlights of their senior year. Wandell still has some of his senior season ahead of him. He’ll be at Forest Akers East Golf Course this weekend to take part in the Division 3 State Finals for the second year in a row. He knows it will take some work to try and be a multi-sport athlete in college. “A lot of study tables, a lot of tutors. I think it’s ten hours a week maybe of study tables,” Wandell said. Like any group of graduating seniors, the plans for the future were mixed. Wandell said he plans to study towards a degree in business or accounting at Davenport. Culbert said she has no idea about her course of study yet. Brindley said he’s not declaring anything, but he’s leaning towards marketing. Watson seemed sure of a degree in business management, and Polley didn’t hesitate in saying she would be studying towards a degree as a dental hygienist. Four inducted at Hall of Fame banquet Area boys can’t get through to D2 State Finals at Ferris 77568711 accept her award. The Hastings MI USBC Board deemed it a privilege to recognize the new hall of fame members. The board also is looking forward to receiving more nominations for welldeserving people that would qualify for induction in the 2013 class. Call 269-945-9554 anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads 77568606 The Thomas Jefferson Hall located on the corner of Jefferson and Green Streets in Hastings is looking for bids on repair and updating in the following areas: • Exterior and Interior Painting • Removal and Installation of roof shingles • Restoration and repair of windows • Installation of Air Conditioning • Porch Repair • Drapery cleaning and installation • Electrical Updating All bids will be treated on an individual basis. To inspect and discuss the projects, please contact David Macqueen at (616) 570-8906 or (269) 945-8832 or leave a message at (269) 945-3345. tion to the sport of bowling. Barnum and Pennington were present to accept their hall of fame awards. Gardner was honored posthumously, with her husband Duane Gardner and daughter Becky Becktold there to accept the award in her honor. Bahs was unable to attend, but her son John and daughter-in-law Sue were present to 77568600 James Michael Cole, 44, of Delton, was sentenced for possession of a stolen credit card. Cole was ordered June 7 to serve no jail time, no probation, and to pay $1,098 in court assessments. Two additional charges of stealing or retaining a financial transaction device without consent and a charge of larceny from a building were dropped. Cole is on federal parole for bank robbery and was delivered back into federal custody. Maple Valley High School is currently seeking applicants for a couple of head coaching positions for the 2012 fall sports season. The Lions are looking for a new varsity boys’ soccer coach and a sideline cheer coach for the football season. The posting for the varsity boys’ soccer coaching opening will be up until June 26. Any interested applicants should email their letter of interest to Duska Brumm, Athletic Director at Maple Valley High School, dbrumm@mvs.k12.mi.us. The sideline cheer position will be posted until June 22 at 3 p.m. Interested candidates are asked to please send their letter of interest and resume to Brumm via email or regular mail at 11090 Nashville Hwy, Vermontville, MI 49096. A group of four new members were inducted into the Hastings MI United States Bowling Congress (USBC) Association Hall of Fame during the second annual banquet at Hastings Elks Lodge 1965 May 5. Before friends and family, Louise Bahs, Jim Barnum, Janet Gardner and Hugh Pennington were honored with the banquet as well as awards for service, love and dedica- 77568594 Daniel Frederick Url, 51, of Nashville was sentenced June 7 for maintaining a drug house. Url was ordered to serve 30 days in jail, with credit for two days served. He must pay $1,698 in court assessments and serve 12 months on probation. The balance of his jail sentence will be suspended upon successful completion of probation. Url must pay $100 per month toward assessments. A charge of delivery or manufacturing of marijuana was dropped. MVHS looking for soccer and cheer coaches Beck Becktold (seated from left), Duane Gardner, Jim Barnum, John Bahs, and (back) Hugh Pennington accept awards Hastings MI USBC Association Bowlers Hall of Fame banquet May 5 at Hastings Elks Lodge 1965. Barnum and Pennington were among the four Hall of Fame inductees, while Becktold, Gardner and Bahs accepted the honor on behalf of Louise Bahs and Janet Gardner. 77568597 COURT NEWS The three individual state qualifiers from the regional were Niles’ John Schrader who shot a 74, Gull Lake’s Evan Krohn who shot a 77, and Edwardsburg’s Dominic Razzano who fired a 78. Haslett’s Chris Beltzer fired the day’s low round, a 73. DeWitt took the day’s team championship with a score of 312, followed by Haslett 315 and St. Johns 323. Edwardsburg was fourth with a 327, followed by East Lansing 330, Mattawan 333, Hastings 343, St. Joe 348, Otsego 349, Niles 354, Gull Lake 363 and Ionia 379. Peter VanSpreeken led DeWitt, tying Schrader for second individually. The Panthers also got a 76 from Tyler Polulak, a 78 from Owen Byer and a pair of 84s from Mitchell Overway and Courtland Nelson. St. Johns was the only other team with two golfers in the top ten. Tyler Mazzolini shot a 78 and Zach Peters a 79. 77568603 The 2012 varsity boys’ golf season came to an end for all the representatives of the O-K Gold Conference that took part in Thursday’s Division 2 Regional Tournament at Gull Lake View West Golf Course in Richland. Hastings’ Danny Buehler came the closest of any of them to reaching the Division 2 State Finals, which he qualified for as an individual a year ago. He was ninth individually with a 79. The top three teams and top three individuals not on those teams at each of the regionals around the state this week earned a spot in the Division 2 State Finals which will be held at Katke Golf Course at Ferris State University June 15-16. Behind Buehler for Hastings, Taylor Klotz fired an 83, Dylan Thurman a 90 and Logan Barrett a 91. Thornapple Kellogg’s individual regional qualifier, Ben Jazwinski, fired a 94 Thursday. The two boys from Wayland Alec Pawlowski and Evan Hallorman, shot an 87 and 89 respectively. �Page 16 — Thursday, June 14, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Everybody plays a part in Trojans’ regional wins by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Thornapple Kellogg senior Dylan VanPutten caught his breath for a moment sitting atop a blue cooler in the visitor’s dugout at DeWitt High School Saturday afternoon. Most of his teammates were still taking turns with the regional championship trophy, posing for photographs and just celebrating in general. “We’ve got a leader sitting right there. There ain’t no secret, he stepped it up leadership-wise and led this team. Dylan has done a nice job,” said Thornapple Kellogg head coach Jack Hobert after his team’s 3-1 victory over Portland in the Division 2 Regional Final. VanPutten snagged the throw from short stop Dalton Phillips at first base to secure the final out of the championship game, then rushed in and lifted pitcher Garrett Harris into the air as their teammates closed in on the center of the diamond. “From day one we’ve all just played as a team,” said VanPutten. “We’ve all trusted each other. We do things as a team. We hang out as a team. It’s all about the team, for sure.” The team got the job done Saturday, with a 10-2 regional semifinal victory over Fowlerville followed by the 3-1 win over Portland for the Trojan baseball program’s first ever regional championship. All nine Trojan starters had at least one hit in the regional tournament. Seven different guys notched at least one RBI. Seven different guys scored at least one run. It was just two guys who took care of the pitching duties, freshman Dalton Phillips and sophomore Garrett Harris. Each threw a complete game. “It feels good,” Harris said. “Yeah, we’re carrying a lot, but I feel like we’re doing really good.” Harris gave up just four hits in the championship game against Portland, and three of those were infield hits. He walked two and struck out one. Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity baseball team rushes in to celebrate with head coach Jack Hobert as he lifts the regional championship trophy Saturday in DeWitt following the Trojans’ 3-1 victory over Portland in the Division 2 Regional Final. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Thornapple Kellogg’s Alex Roy drills an RBI single to right field during the top of the first inning of Saturday’s Division 2 Regional Final against Portland at DeWitt High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Thornapple Kellogg’s Garrett Harris rounds third and heads for home during the top of the first inning against Portland Saturday in DeWitt. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Phillips went the seven innings in the semifinal against Fowlerville, giving up five hits and walking one. He struck out eight. “It’s different,” VanPutten said of having a couple youngsters taking care of the pitching duties on a team that includes eight seniors. “I never would have expected it. Since day one, they came out and they fit right in. They’ve been a part of the team and they have succeeded. I trust them on the mound. I have no doubt that they’re going to get the job done for us.” The only ball that hit the outfield grass after being pitched by Harris in the final against Portland was a double to right center field off the bat of Dylan Carrol to lead off the bottom of the sixth inning. A pair of wild pitches brought him home, but Harris settled down from there. “He was changing his speeds,” Hobert said. “He was keeping them off balance. He was giving me a heart failure because I think just about every hitter he started out with a ball. We all know how that usually works out. But he mixed things up well.” The Trojan offense scored all the runs it would need in the first inning of each game. Cody Ybema started things off with a one-out single in the top of the first against the Raiders. Harris followed with an infield single. With two out, Alex Roy drove in Ybema from third with a single that just got over the Raider second baseman’s glove. Harris then came home on a wild pitch from Portland starter Andrew Click. After Portland scored in the bottom of the sixth, TK answered right back with a run in the top of the seventh. Caden Francisco, who’d saved a run from scoring with a nice running catch in deep center field in the bottom of the fifth, reached on a bunt single with one out. He went to second on a wild pitch, moved to third on a single by Nate Iveson, then scored on a sacrifice fly off the bat of Harris. “I think the only mistake we ever made was maybe not communicating in the outfield. All day, that was it,” said Hobert. “I mean, these guys are catching the balls in the gap; picking guys off; ball is in the hole and we’re throwing guys out; laying down a bunt when you need it in that last inning. That run was huge. That last run in the seventh inning was huge because it’s momentum.” Roy and Harris had two hits each in the championship game. TK had nine as a team, all of them singles. TK had 13 hits in the opener, a 10-2 win over Fowlerville. VanPutten had a two-run double and Jordan Timm a one-run double in the top of the first as TK jumped out to a 3-0 lead. Fowlerville answered with two runs in the bottom of the first, on a two-run double by Chad Soja. Fowlerville had five hits off of Phillips, but three of them were in that first inning. The Gladiators only had one baserunner between the first and seventh innings, and Phillips promptly picked him off at first base. TK tacked on two more runs in the third, on a two-run single by Timm. He finished the game 3 for 4 with two doubles and four RBI. Iveson drilled a two-run double in the top of the fifth to make it 7-2 in favor of TK. Harris, Timm and Hudson drove in the final three Trojan runs with hits in the top of the sixth inning. VanPutten, Phillips and Iveson had two hits each in the semifinal for TK. Iveson and VanPutten had two RBI each. HMS boys’ track season ends well The Hastings Middle School boys’ track and field team recently ended a successful season on the track. The team’s record was 2-2 in duel meets and 2-0 in tri meets. The team took first place at the Delton Invitational, and first at the Tom Foy Memorial Invitational where it beat the defending champions from Ionia. The Saxon team also had a second-place finish at its league meet and a third-place finish at the Comstock Invitational during the season. Many of the boys finished the season having recorded their personal best throws, jumps, vaults and times. A number of special honors were handed out at the end of the year. Alex Maurer was named the Most Valuable Athlete. Tyler Youngs and Maurer shared the Most Improved Athlete honors. Captain Awards went to Alex Beauchamp, Quentin Wigg, Justin Carlson, Felipe Carmona and Austin Haywood. The seventh grade Rookie of the Year Award wen to Jack Longstreet and the eighth grade Coach Award went to Justice Lamance. Owen Post was also honored for tying two Hastings Middle School track records, in the 100-meter dash and the 200-meter dash. ✯ REAL ESTATE & PERSONAL PROPERTY AUCTION ✯ SATURDAY, JULY 7TH AT 10:00AM WITH REAL ESTATE SELLING AT 12:30PM 2070 ROOT ROAD, HASTINGS LOCATION: Located approximately 2-1/2 miles from Hastings, just off South Broadway on Root Road. 2070 Root Road, Hastings. We will be offering for sale at auction 4 acres more or less with house and pole barn/garage. Open House: Monday, June 18th from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm This lovely home sits on a hill with a circle drive, many lovely trees and flowers. It has propane heat and central air. There is a porch on the front & a deck off of the dining room on the back. It has a spacious Living area just off the Kitchen. It has 3 bedrooms, 2 baths & a laundry room. The kitchen has very nice oak cabinets. The spacious master bedroom has a full bathroom and a walk in closet. There is a large basement with a sliding glass door that opens onto the back yard. The basement has 10’ tall ceiling and could be finished for more living space. In addition there is a Pole Barn/Garage that is separate from the house. This is a very clean nice home sitting close to town, yet in a very quiet, private area. You must see this to appreciate it. Property will sell at approximately 12:30 pm. ATTORNEY: DAVID TRIPP; Hastings, MI; 269-945-9585 A U C T I O —AUCTIONEERS— KENDALL TOBIAS . . . . . . . .Hastings 945-5016 TONY MOOREHEAD . . . . . . . . . . . . .Auctioneer VINCENT VERDUIN . . . . . .Assisting Auctioneer N E E R Buyer must register with Kendall Tobias Auctioneering - selling by number - Driver’s license for I.D. Never charging a buyer’s premium! TERMS: Cash or good Michigan Check. Sorry, no credit cards or out of state checks. Nothing removed until settled for sale day. Not responsible for accidents, before, during, or after sale for goods after sold. ***Auctioneers & employees act as sales agents only - assume no liabilities or guarantees. Everything sold, “AS IS, WHERE IS”. The 2012 Hastings Middle School boys’ track and field team. Team members this year included (front from left) Justice Lamance, Theron Heniser, Skyler Brower, Ethan Klipfer, Morgan Tolles, Justin Carlson, Ben Anderson, (second row) Thomas Furrow, Kenny Redman, Alex Maurer, Jacob Wilgus, Calvin Cappon, Noah Lumbert, Matt Endsley, Nick Surratt, Zach Allyn, Krylan Pederson, Clay Coltson, Aaron Denny, (third row) Jasce Brown, Nick Baum, Dylan Williams, Connor Musculus, Connor Wales, Ryan Smelker, Sam Johnson, Felipe Carmona, Alex Beauchamp, Cristian Laux, Colin Cusack, Thomas Bare, Charles Surratt, Matt Maurer, coach Tiffany Blakely, (back) coach Steve Collins, Carter Carpenter, Quentin Wigg, Tyler Youngs, George Murphy, Taylor Harding, Owen Post, Caleb Keech, Michael James, Lee Stowe, Austin Haywood and Jack Longstreet. (Photo by White’s Photography) Boucher will take over LHS varsity football by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Lakewood didn’t go far to find the next man to fill its varsity football head coaching opening. Nick Boucher has been named the new head coach, filling the hole created by the legal troubles of Chad Curtis who was hired after Jim Behrenwald stepped down at the end of the 2011 season. “He is what we need for our program,” said Lakewood High School athletic director Bill Barker. “It’s a challenge, but he’s up for it. We’re glad to have him.” Barker said that Boucher’s loyalty and stability were key in the decision to make the hire, and that Boucher has built up trust with the student-athletes during his time in the program. “What we need right now is someone they can look to and trust, and he is the man,” Barker said. His “passion and enthusiasm for Lakewood football” were also key. Boucher has been the Viking’s junior varsity head coach each of the past two seasons, after a stint as the freshman team’s head coach from 2003-2009. Boucher was also an assistant varsity wrestling coach at Lakewood High School from 2003-2010, and has coached with various wrestling clubs in the area. He is a Lakewood High School graduate, who played football in high school and also won a state championship as a wrestler in 1996. He went on to wrestler at Cleveland State University for four years, and worked one year for Cleveland State as an assistant wrestling coach before returning to Lakewood. He was also an assistant freshman baseball coach in 2003. Tractors fill Delton school parking lot Delton Kellogg High School students enjoy the annual year-end “Drive Your Tractor to School Day.” The parking lot took on an even more rural look Wednesday, June 6, when the farm vehicles filled in spaces. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 14, 2012 — Page 17 Experienced Eagles edge Trojans in quarterfinal by Brett Bremer Sports Editor “To me, this is the last week of baseball in Michigan, high school baseball, and we were playing. What a feeling,” said first-year Thornapple Kellogg varsity baseball coach Jack Hobert Tuesday. The Trojans made it to the last week, but not the last weekend. Grand Rapids Christian, ranked second in the state in Division 2, knocked off the Trojans 5-1 in the state quarterfinals at Hope College’s Boeve Stadium in Holland Tuesday. “When these kids came in, I’m their third head coach. The seniors, I’m their third head coach,” Hobert said. “They had to adapt to me and I had to adapt to them. The way we started off, 0 and 5, people were wondering, ‘are we ever going to get this done?’ “Obviously, we go 25 and 8 the rest of the way on. Hard work. Dedication. About the last month or so I’ve got kids coming to me, ‘can I take extra ground balls, can we get extra hitting.’ They grabbed hold of what was going on and they took it. I just had the reigns.” The Trojans had a bunch of seniors who played nearly flawless baseball throughout the postseason run. A freshman and sophomore were the aces of the pitching staff. A senior first baseman who opponents didn’t want to pitch to was the leader. They won their school’s first ever district and regional baseball championships. What the Trojans didn’t have was postseason experience. Grand Rapids Christian did. The Eagles had eight players starting Tuesday, six seniors and two juniors, who started in the Division 2 State Championship Game at Bailey Park in Battle Creek last June. St. Clair beat the Eagles 4-1 in that game. The Eagles mercied both Spring Lake and Unity Christian to earn the regional championship in Holland Saturday. “Last year, we saw the dog-pile at the end Trojan shortstop Dalton Phillips gets in position to field a ground ball as Grand Rapids Christian’s Kurt Hoekstra races in front of him during the top of the fifth inning Tuesday in Holland. (Photo by Brett Bremer) with St. Clair and everyone watched it,” said Grand Rapids Christian head coach Brent Gates. “From the last game last year, we had to go get back to Battle Creek. Once you get there, it’s so hard to do. “These guys have been number one, number two in the state all year long and the pressure has been incredible. We’re supposed to win these games right now. Last year, we weren’t. For these guys to come in and do it day in and day out is pretty impressive.” The Eagles got off to an impressive start Tuesday. A pair of hard-hit singles were followed by a two-run triple to right center field off the bat of clean-up hitter David Pluymert in the top of the first. TK starting pitcher sophomore Garrett Harris got a couple of ground-outs to strand Pluymert at third. It was the only really rough inning for Harris. The Trojans never let the Eagles feel comfortable, but couldn’t get the big hit to make them feel really uncomfortable. TK answered the Eagles in the bottom of the second. Senior first baseman Dylan VanPutten led off with a triple over the left fielder’s head, and came home on a two-out single by Dalton Phillips. Brendon Hudson followed with a single, but Phillips and Hudson were stranded at first and second. Christian got that run right back. Kurt Hoekstra tripled for the Eagles with one out in the top of the third, then came home with two out when a line drive was misplayed in the Grand Rapids Christian’s Alex VandeVusse dives around Thornapple Kellogg catcher Nate Iveson in an attempt to score safely in the top of the seventh inning of Tuesday’s Division 2 State Quarterfinal at Hope College. VandeVusse would have to come back to touch the plate to score the Eagles’ final run in their 5-1 win over the Trojans. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Thornapple Kellogg’s Dylan VanPutten slides in safely with a triple to lead off the bottom of the second inning as Grand Rapids Christian third baseman Travis Kraai waits on the relay throw Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) outfield. Harris would go four innings and take the loss. He allowed five hits and one walk, which turned into three runs only two of which were earned. Freshman pitcher Phillips finished off the final three innings, giving up five hits and one walk, which turned into two runs only one of which was earned. That pair of youngsters combined to earn 17 of the Trojans’ 25 wins on the mound this season. The split the pitching duties Tuesday after both throwing a full seven innings at the regional tournament Saturday. “They’re solid kids on the mound for young kids, and they don’t get rattled. Very proud of them,” Hobert said. Thornapple Kellogg’s best chance to overtake the Eagles came in the bottom of the third. Cody Ybema was hit by a pitch with one out, and Phillips followed with a double that put runners at second and third. The Eagles’ opted to intentionally walk VanPutten, and it paid off. Eagle starter David VanVliet got Alex Roy to hit a ground ball to second baseman Taylor Prius who took a couple steps to his right to touch second base then fired to first to complete the double play. “Our guys are throwing strikes all year long. Our defense has been what has won games. Obviously, that’s how you want it to work out,” Gates said. “It doesn’t always work out that way, but that’s their good hitter and again we knew we had a kid throwing strikes on the mound and we have a good defense so, you hope that works that way.” VanVliet followed that up by setting the next eight Trojans down in order, with a single by Roy in the bottom of the sixth the only other hit off him the rest of the afternoon. VanVliet got the win, giving up five hits and two walks in six innings of work. He struck out three. Kurt Hoekstra came on in relief after VanVliet walked the first batter he faced in the bottom of the seventh, and earned the save. Hoekstra gave up one hit, an infield single off the bat of Caden Francisco, and struck out one. The Eagles were able to breathe a little bit after a two-run rally in the top of the seventh. Pluymert singled and a Trojan error allowed Alex VandeVusse to reach, putting runners on second and third with one out. Travis Kraai came to the plate, and after taking a couple pitches, dropped down a perfect sacrifice bunt. TK managed the out at first, but both Eagle runners came in to score with VandeVusse diving around a sweeping tag by TK catcher Nate Iveson and then racing back to touch home plate to get his team the second run. The Eagles advance to the state semifinals at Bailey Park in Battle Creek Friday afternoon where they’ll take on Dearborn Divine Child. St. Joseph will meet Bay City John Glenn in the other Division 2 State Semifinal Friday. “We won a district championship, which has never been done in school history,” Hobert said. “We topped that off with a regional championship. The final eight teams in the state of Michigan in your division, and we played a pretty good Grand Rapids Christian team pretty tough. We get a bounce our way, we’re moving on. They have nothing to hang their heads about.” “We’re back to work tomorrow. We’ve got summer baseball going with our kids and we’re going to keep trucking and try to live up to what these kids set the standard at.” LHS boys and DK’s Wandell return to D3 Finals The Delton Kellogg Mitchell Wandell and the Lakewood Vikings are headed to the state finals for the second year in a row. Lakewood’s varsity boys’ golf team finished second at Thursday’s Division 3 Regional Tournament hosted by Olivet at the Medalist in Marshall to earn a spot in this weekend’s Division 3 State Finals at Forest Akers East on the campus of Michigan State University. Viking senior Adam Barker was one stroke back of the day’s medalist, Wandell from Delton Kellogg. Wandell fired a 71 and Barker a 72. The top three teams and top three individuals not on those teams earned spots in the state finals. Wandell picked up his game at the regional tournament, finishing nine strokes better than he did the week before at the district tournament at Yarrow Golf Course. Barker hit 12 out of 14 fairways, ten greens in regulation, and had just 28 putts throughout the 18-hole round Thursday. “He was making six to eight-footers all day,” Lakewood head coach Carl Kutch said of Barker. “It is his high school career best round for 18. Couldn’t ask for better timing. Kyler Clark also shot lights-out today, firing a 75, also a personal best 18-hole round for him. He rallied on his second nine with four birdies over a stretch of just six holes.” Clark was fifth overall. The Vikings also got an 87 from Royce Everts and an 86 from Ben Ridder. “All five of our seniors really played tough,” Kutch said. “They knew what was on the line and they wanted to get back to the state finals. We have had several rough rounds through the season, I guess we got things ironed out. This past week was a very good week of practice. The guys worked very hard, focused and were very prepared coming into today.” West Catholic took the regional championship, with a score of 313. Lakewood shot a 320, followed by Lansing Catholic Central 325. Pennfield was fourth with a 328, followed by NorthPointe Christian 334, Dowagiac 335, Coloma 336, Schoolcraft 344, Paw Paw 357, Allendale 361, South Haven 367 and Comstock 375. West Catholic and Lansing Catholic Central also had two top ten individual performances each. Sam Weatherhead shot a 72 to lead West Catholic, and his teammate Matt Rooney added a 77. Jacob Johnson shot a 75 to lead the Cougars, and his team also got a 76 from Brent Marshall. The two others joining Wandell as individual state qualifiers were Dowagiac’s Jordan Juday who shot a 74 and Olivet’s Tyler Masters who fired a 76. Lakewood’s Kyler Clark (left) and Adam Barker show off their medals after finishing in the top five at Thursday’s Division 3 Regional Tournament at The Medalist in Marshall. See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS Delton Kellogg’s Mitchell Wandell hits a drive at The Medalist in Marshall Thursday as Maple Valley’s Caleb Walker looks on during their Division 3 Regional Tournament. 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits �Page 18 — Thursday, June 14, 2012 — The Hastings Banner 50-ton beams help Michigan Avenue bridge take shape A steel beam used to guide the concrete beams into place bends under the weight of 50 tons of shaped concrete Friday morning. The concrete beams make up the final concrete bridge deck. The Michigan Avenue Bridge beams are now in place. The eight concrete beams arrived one per truck Friday, June 8. Each beam is 100 feet long, four feet square, and weighs 100,000 pounds. Trucks entered North Michigan Avenue from East State Road navigating the turn by steering the truck’s rear tires independently. The trucks then backed the beams down Michigan Avenue to the bridge. (Photo by Jerry Sarver) Trucks carefully back down North Michigan Avenue toward the bridge readying 100foot concrete beams for placement on the bridge. The trucks, which picked up the beams in Kalamazoo, took a circuitous route to the bridge Friday, going east to Charlton Park Road before turning west into town, coming in north of the Thornapple River. After a concrete box beam is slid into place, a worker hooks a harness to the beam, which is then placed by a crane. The exercise was repeated seven more times Friday. Onlookers gather to watch as 50-ton beams are maneuvered into place to shape the Michigan Avenue bridge in Hastings. Cranes on both sides of the Thornapple River work to position the first of eight concrete beams Friday. Two more beams wait on North Michigan Avenue ready to be placed. The 50-ton beams are moved off trucks by crane and then slid across the Thornapple River on this red steel beam. The bridge beam was then attached to a second crane and the two cranes worked together to place each of the eight beams. With the beams placed Friday, workers move on to the next steps in construction of the Michigan Avenue Bridge. As of Monday evening, a retaining wall was in place. The temporary sewer line (right) will be moved once the bridge is completed. 77568648 The sixth of eight 100,000-pound beams is lowered into place. The bridge deck will be completed within two weeks. According to city officials, the project is a week ahead of schedule. (Photo by Jerry Sarver) � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-06-20.pdf e5159008c8ca9a616a1e50ba757c5532 PDF Text Text School board adopts deficit-reduction plan New bridge a big win for Michigan Delton golfer sixth at state finals See Story on Page 13 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 20 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 25 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, June 21, 2012 Commissioners move to take back Animal Control NEWS BRIEFS Showcase will feature Speas, Yates Jeff Speas, singer and guitarist from Woodland, will be featured at the Community Music Showcase Thursday, June 21, at 6:30 p.m. Speas has been writing and performing music for many years. He has covered music by such artists as Neil Young, Jim Croce and Kenny Loggins. “The past two years, Jeff has been a big hit at Hastings Summerfest,” said showcase music coordinator Steve Reid. “It should be a wonderful concert.” Opening the evening will be local musician Ken Yates, who will perform two songs. The free concerts are at Thomas Jefferson Hall, 328 S. Jefferson St., Hastings. Amateur radio field day set in Freeport The Barry Amateur Radio Association will be participating in a field day from 2 p.m. Saturday, June 23, until noon Sunday, June 24. The event will take place at the Freeport Park, 200 S. State St., in Freeport. The field day is the world’s largest annual international emergency communication exercise. The public is welcome to stop by, observe and learn about this public service. Health dept. putting smoke-free parks survey online The Barry County Tobacco Reduction Coalition Monday, June 11, asked the Hastings City Council to consider a smokefree parks policy. After discussion, council members tabled the issue in order to obtain input from citizens. To help in providing input to the council, the Barry County Tobacco Coalition has developed a short online survey. In addition, according to the presentation from the tobacco coalition, smoke-free parks reduce exposure to second-hand smoke, model healthy behavior for youths, protect children from tobacco-related litter and promote and protect the natural environment. The survey is available at the BarryEaton District Health Department website, www.barryeatonhealth.org, Pennock Health Services at www.pennockhealth.com, or visit the Barry-Eaton District Health Department’s Facebook page,www.facebook.com/barryeatonhealth. by Doug VanderLaan Editor Taking a step to end long-simmering acrimony with Sheriff Dar Leaf over the issue and to address growing public outcry, the Barry County Board of Commissioners at its committee of the whole meeting Tuesday voted 53 to recommend to the full commission an amendment to the Animal Control Ordinance. The proposed resolution would reassign Animal Control responsibilities and duties from the sheriff’s department to a newly created department to be led by an Animal Control director. The sheriff and his department have come under fire from a number of perspectives over Animal Control operations, particularly charges of a higher-than-needed euthanasia rate and an unwillingness to involve volunteers in the care and adoption of animals. Though Tuesday’s approval of the resolution heartened many in the audience of more than 100 attendees, the move is not a done deal — especially given the margin of approval and the fact that a final plan must gain definitive approval at a formal meeting of the board of commissioners. “I don’t know how much more clear it can be,” said Commissioner Robert Houtman of the tentative nature of the motion he presented. “It directs the county administrator to construct a resolution [which means] a plan will be presented, it will be discussed, and it will ultimately be voted on at a board of commission meeting.” A repeat of Tuesday’s vote is not guaranteed. The three commissioners who voted against the motion cited concerns over cost of a new Animal Control department. Even Vice Chair Ben Geiger, who voted with the majority, expressed reservations over any final proposal that would not be “cost neutral.” “At the end of the day, the solution must involve utilizing our volunteer network,” Geiger stated. “But, at the same time, I also recognize that we’re in tough financial times. Our administrator said here today that we’re looking at a potential $1 million deficit next year.” That number as well as several related factors entered into the ‘no’ votes cast by Commissioners Howard Gibson, Dan Parker and Chair Craig Stolsonburg. “I look at all the cuts we’ve made, and I More than 100 citizens and interested parties turn out for Tuesday’s committee meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners which was moved to the circuit courtroom to accommodate all who attended. can’t in good conscience vote for something that is going to cost us money,” said Stolsonburg. “I believe there are better solutions out there.” “This community needs — is screaming for — change. How we can’t find a few bucks to make that happen is beyond me.” Commissioner Robert Houtman Parker shared that sentiment, questioning why a decision had to be made Tuesday when research on a possible nonprofit organization to run an Animal Control department — rather than the hiring of a new director — had not yet occurred. “I don’t feel we’ve really reached out to see if there are any 501(c)3s [nonprofits] to come See ANIMAL CONTROL, pg. 17 Three Hastings school administrators resign Fair ‘favorites’ sought by publisher As part of its pre-fair supplement, J-Ad Graphics would like to include what local people like best about the Barry County Fair. This year will mark the 160th the Barry County Fair, which has celebrated agriculture, handicrafts, skills and talents of area people, along with amusement rides, grandstand events, ‘fair food’ and more. So what do area residents like best? Area residents are encouraged to share their favorite thing about the fair — along with first name and age. (For example, “The funny chickens,” Johnathan, age 6; or “The Ferris wheel,” Shirley, age 62; or “Anything involving tractors,” Doug, age 37.) Please mail responses to J-Ad Graphics, 1351 N. M-43, Hastings 49058; drop off response at same address; or email to news@j-adgraphics.com. in here,” said Parker. “We need more time to check things out and, now that we have options, we should take the time to fully discuss them.” Those options were presented by County Administrator Michael Brown as a preface to Tuesday’s discussion and consisted of four methods that are municipalities currently use in the state: A Sheriff Model as is currently employed in the county, in which enforcement and shelter functions are overseen by the county sheriff and department; a Director or County Department Model, in which a civilian director oversees enforcement and shelter functions and reports to the county board; a Health Department Model, in which enforcement and shelter functions are assigned to the county health department; and a Combination Model, in which enforcement is assigned to the sheriff, and operation of an animal shelter is contracted out to a private or nonprofit organization. Though Gibson said he likely saw merit in the options, his negative vote was cast on lack of information and time to consider it. “We’ve never seen a job description for a director, and where is the money going to come from?” asked Gibson in remarks following the meeting. “This was done under public pressure. Why couldn’t we have waited another week to get answers to these questions? What’s another week?” Brown reported that the Animal Control Department’s annual budget of $218,014 comes from the county’s general fund and that the addition of a new director position could cost an estimated $56,000 to $73,000, including benefits. Houtman maintained that the cost would be far less for the hiring of a new director — more likely in the range of $25,000 — due to a position at the Animal Control office held vacant and yet to be filled. “If it comes down to $25,000 to support a community that has given $150,000 [toward the construction of the new animal shelter], then I’m personally willing to find the $25,000,” said Houtman. “This community needs — is screaming for — change. How we can’t find a few bucks to make that happen is beyond me.” Several of nearly two dozen speakers addressed the cost issue as well. Hastings resident Robert Moyer suggested a greater licensing effort may more than cover any additional costs, especially since dog licenses are sold only at the county courthouse. “It’s simple math,” said Moyer, “you license 5,000 to 6,000 dogs right now and how much per year? If we have 20,000 domiciles in the community and one-third own one dog or more, we’re missing the boat in the revenue stream. “Veterinarians told me they would be more than willing to issue dog licenses with every rabies shot. People who live in the far corners of the county don’t come to Hastings to buy a dog license. If we were to accept the services of vets to sell licenses, we could more than double licensing fees. We need to rethink the whole process.” Fred Jacobs, vice president of J-Ad Graphics Inc., publisher of the Banner, suggested that a creative solution might not just eliminate increased cost fears, it could even save the county money. “I know that ‘privatization’ is a bad word, but we could reduce cost to the county by giv- Summer thespians to stage musical Friday The summer drama camp sponsored by the Thornapple Arts Council and led by the Thornapple Players will be presenting two productions of “Twinderella the Musical” Friday at the Community Enrichment Center in Hastings. The musical, which tells the story of Cinderella and her long-lost twin brother, will be performed at 2 and 7 p.m. by a the cast of 8- to 13-year-olds who paused during rehearsal this week to pose for a photograph. Pictured (front row, from left) are Samantha Craven, Lindsay Meeker, Tommy Johnson, Lilly Nowinsky, Amy Forsburg, Alyssa Dipert, Turner Halle, Griffin Seeber, Sage Winters, Lizzy Fichtner (back) Juliann Meeker, James Gerber, Chase Mesecar, Lexi Replogle, Anna Bassett, Sierra Bentti, Hayden Thompson, Haven Keagle, Chase Dannenburg, Daisy Nowinsky, Abby Fichtner, Andee Gerber and Camille VanDien. (Not pictured is Emma Hautrow.) The production is directed by Danielle Brower and Amber Farnum. by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Three of the Hastings Area Schools administrators — Northeastern Elementary Principal Terry Sedlar, Hastings Middle School Assistant Principal Mark Martin and Hastings High School Principal Tim Johnston have resigned from their posts. In their letters of resignation, all three thanked the board, administration, fellow employees and members of the community for their support during their time with Hastings Area Schools. Johnston and Sedlar said they had accepted positions with other districts, Johnston as the athletic director for East Grand Rapids and Sedlar an elementary principal for Owosso Public Schools. Martin has not disclosed future employment plans. During the regular June meeting Monday evening, members of the Hastings Board of Education and Interim Superintendent of Schools Michelle Falcon expressed their thanks to Johnston, Martin and Sedlar for their years of service to the district and wished them well on their future endeavors. Central Elementary teacher Marianne Seidl said that with three building administrators leaving the district, rumors have begun circulating that there were plans to have one principal for multiple elementary schools. Falcon and incoming superintendent Todd Geerlings both said the 2012-13 budget, which the board approved during the meeting, included funds for a principal for each building in the district and there were currently no plans for buildings to share an administrator. Falcon said she would meet with Geerlings this week to determine when and how the positions would be filled. Falcon said Geerlings was involved in the hiring process for the new middle and high school choir and band instructors. “We are excited about those two positions; we have two quality candidates.” she said. “One [vocal music director Matthew Callaghan] is coming all the way from Colorado, actually a native of Saranac ...” Johnston said, Spencer White, the new band director, is originally from Grand Rapids and has been teaching in Edwardsburg for the past few years. The board accepted the personnel report which, in addition to the hiring of the new vocal music and band directors, contained notice of the following: Retirements — Southeastern Elementary Dan Egbert, Central Elementary paraprofessional Deborah Robbe. Layoffs — Northeastern Elementary general paraprofessional Sandra Chewning, Southeastern Elementary general paraprofessional Nancy Hammond, district-wide specialized maintenance Robert Glasgow, Community Education and Recreation Center paraprofessional Andrea Schmidt, districtwide shipping and receiving clerk Robin Stoepker-Girrbach, Northeastern Elementary general paraprofessional Shanna Tietz, and Star Elementary general paraprofessional Tanya Woern. Transfers and reassignments — Star Elementary kindergarten teacher Elizabeth Adams, middle and high school physical education teacher Adam Case, district-wide elementary art teacher Kellen Deau, See RESIGNATIONS, pg. 15 �Page 2 — Thursday, June 21, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Hastings Alumni Association honors two distinguished alumni Each year, the Hastings Alumni Association honors a graduate of Hastings High School with the Alumnus of the Year Award to recognize his or her achievements after leaving the school. This year, the association presented two alumnus awards — one to career nurse and nursing educator Kathleen Gaskill Bappert and a posthumous award for Gary J. Pierce, founder and former director of Pierce Cedar Creek Institute. Pierce, a member of the Hastings High School Class of 1964, developed his love for the natural environment while accompanying his parents around the many archery courses where they both shot bow, winning numerous trophies. His passion for the environment was refined through participation in the Boy Scouts of America, where he earned many merit badges in areas as diverse as entomology and cooking, eventually earning the degree of The Order of the Arrow. After graduating from high school, Pierce attended the University of Wisconsin, where he met Mary Agnes Coyle, also a student at the university, and they married in 1967. Gary received his bachelor’s degree and then began graduate school at Western Michigan University and also entered a Ph.D. program at the University of Wyoming in 1971. In 1974, WMU conferred a master of the arts degree, summa cum laude, to Pierce who was then inducted into Phi Kappa Phi National Honor Society. In 1979, Pierce earned a doctorate from the University of Wyoming. As part of his doctoral dissertation, Pierce named a new genus of plants, the grass Griffithsochioa. Pierce taught botany as a fully tenured associate professor at Niagara University in Niagara Falls, N.Y., until 1981, also teaching courses at the Rachel Carson College Environmental Center of the University of Buffalo. During this time, he co-authored the book Checklist of Plants of the Niagara Frontier Region with Dr. Richard Zander, which was published by the Buffalo Museum of Science in 1979. Hired by Environmental Consultants of Dallas in 1981 to head their New York office, Pierce worked under contract to the New York State Department of Transportation, winning the nomination of Engineer of the Year Award in 1982. His design of a wetlands mitigation project made possible the construction and completion of the Southern Tier Expressway. In 1983, Pierce began his own consulting company, Southern Tier Consulting, which is still operating in West Clarksville, N.Y., as a wetlands plant nursery. While president of Southern Tier Consulting, Pierce worked under contract to Wetland Training Institute, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Environmental Protection Agency and many other private and government agencies. He consulted in more than 30 states and taught many areas of wetlands science to hundreds of college students. In 1993, he published Planning Hydrology for Constructed Wetlands. During the summer of 1997, Pierce and his father, W.G. “Bill” Pierce, conceived the idea of a center for ecological education in Barry County. When Pierce explained to his father what it would mean to the schools and colleges in the region that did not have rural environments to use for ecological research, his father asked, “If I build it, will you come help me run it?” This began Pierce’s next career as administrator for the Pierce Cedar Creek Institute. In November of that year, Gary Pierce moved from New York and with his wife, Mary, started a new life in Michigan. Here, Pierce facilitated the purchase of the original 550-acre parcel of land on Cloverdale Road that 10 years ago became the Pierce Cedar Creek Institute. Both Willard G. Pierce and Jessie M. Pierce died in 1998, prior to the implementation of the proposed project. Gary Pierce again entered the world of professional wetlands management to consult, teach and to write. In 2010, he completed a Alumnus of the Year Kathleen Gaskill Bappert (left) is introduced by Hastings Alumni Association President Donna Brown (right). Nola Edwards honors teachers during the annual Hastings High School Alumni Banquet. landmark project for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, which went all the way to the United State Supreme Court, that will shape wetlands science and protection for generations. He leaves behind a nearly completed document that will be finished and published by Wetland Training Institute, a distillation of the best practices in wetlands construction and mitigation based on his own experiences from over 30 years of playing in the mud. Pierce’s award was accepted by his wife, Mary. “Gary was homespun, down to earth, likable and humble,” she said. “He understood the Earth and how to get the best out of it without damaging the Earth. “He was a brilliant academic but didn’t talk down to people,” said Mary. “He always knew what he was talking about. Even when others didn’t understand, he could explain anything ... He knew how to communicate with people and explain his ideas, including his ideas on how it should be done — whatever ‘it’ was.” Mary said her husband’s success could be measured by the impact he had on numerous students and the impact his work has had on the beauty and function of wetlands across the country. “He committed his professional life to preserving and restoring wetlands and to teaching and inspiring other people to preserve and restore wetlands,” she said. “Gary loved the wetlands and mud and anything that could be construed to be frog habitat. Cedar Creek flows behind our house and forms a wonderful and rare ecosystem that, this far south, is Joann Jordan Logan conducts the roll call of classes during the alumni banquet. COUNTY WIDE considered a relic from the time of glaciers.” Mary said she is now working with the board of trustees for the Pierce Foundation to donate the approximately 15 acres to the institute for research. She said she is also working with the institute to maintain a memorial she created to honor her husband on the top of a glacial gravel hill adjacent to the cedar swamp. The plan is to extend the Cedar Creek trail onto the land to include the Founder’s Trail to the top of the hill, where there is bench to sit on and a large stone with a plaque commemorating Pierce. Gaskill Bappert graduated from in 1966 after spending her time at Hastings High School singing in operettas and traveling to Japan as a Youth for Understanding exchange student. After graduation, she attended University of Michigan where she majored in nursing and earned a bachelor of science degree in nursing in 1970. Soon after, she left for Saigon, Vietnam, where she worked for Seventh-day Adventist Missionaries to establish a nursing school for Vietnamese women. After returning to the United states, Gaskill Bappert continued her nursing career in Texas, with the San Antonio Metropolitan District Health Department, running clinics in neighborhoods and visiting people in their homes. Her career as a public health nurse continued upon her return to Michigan, where she worked at the Barry-Eaton District Health Department and the Ingham County Health Department as a home visitor for vulnerable people, teaching them, referring them for needed services and advocating for their needs. In 1980. Gaskill Bappert returned to the University of Michigan to get a master’s degree in community health nursing, where she earned the Emily Sergeant Glean award for graduating first in her class and was inducted into Sigma Theta Tai, the nursing honor society. She used her advanced nursing degree to provide leadership as an administrator in a local health department, a consultant in maternal child health with the state health department, a manager at a hospital where she established a primary care clinic for the indigent and uninsured, and as a teacher at both Emory University in Atlanta, and now at Michigan State University College of Nursing. At Emory College, she earned teacher the Teacher of the Year Award. Gaskill Bappert has served as the president of the Michigan Public Health Association and continues to serve on the association’s public health nursing executive board. She is presently the chair of a statewide task force of nursing schools and local health department nursing administrators to improve the preparation of new public health nurses in community settings. Gaskill Bappert and her husband, Charlie, have been residents of Coldwater since 1985. Besides raising three sons and her nursing career, she has been active in her local community. She is a member of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, serving as past vestry member, delegate to the diocesan convention Richard Meade honors veterans during the alumni banquet. and search committee member. She has been a longtime member of the choir. She has also sang with the Branch County Community Chorus for 10 years and is a member of the Talking Books book club. She is the past president of the Branch County Council for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect. Gaskill Bappert was employed as Branch County’s Family Services Network coordinator from 1977 to 2002. In this capacity, she served as coordinator for several community task forces and facilitated the cooperation of schools, nonprofit agencies and governmental agencies to offer coordinated services to needy children, families ands seniors, Among other achievements, she was instrumental in helping to establish a shelter for homeless families, which has been operating successfully for 11 years. With her leadership, the community has also organized a child death review, a fetal infant mortality review team and a day care center for persons with dementia. She was awarded Collaborator of the Year by the Family Services Network in 2003 and also a Lifetime Achievement Award by the same organization. In 2001, Gaskill Bappert was selected as Citizen of the Year by the Branch County Chamber of Commerce and in 2005, she was awarded the citation from then Gov. Jennifer Granholm for outstanding community service. Since 2004, Gaskill Bappert has taught nursing at Michigan State University. She enjoys preparing the next generation of nurses and has attempted to keep up with them. On of her projects at MSU has been the creation of a simulated home visit experience in a virtual community using Second Life where students go to Spartan Health Island on the computer and interact with avatars. Gaskill Bappert said that while she anticipates slowing down a little in the next few years and spending more time with her soonto-be six grandchildren, she will always be Tom Baty speaks on behalf of the Hastings High School Class of 1962, which was celebrating its 50th reunion. involved in nursing and her community. Gaskill started her education in a two-room schoolhouse in Dowling until she began attending Hastings Junior High School when she was in eighth grade. “This was the first of many adjustments I had to make from my small secure world in Dowling ...” she said, adding that as she later transitioned to Hastings High School. “I soon settled into a routine and made lots of ‘city’ friends. City people did different things than us country people: They walked downtown to see movies, shopped for clothes, and listened to records in the record shop (in those little sound booths). We rode our horses, camped in the woods, made our own music and sewed our own clothes. It was fun to learn all about these new people. “The many challenges at Hastings High School helped prepare me for making the many transitions in my life — being an exchange student in Japan my junior year, then at the age of 17, going to U of M during the Vietnam War amid the protests on campus — ROTC building blown up, protest shacks on the Diag — then off to Vietnam to see for myself what all this was about, followed by living and working all over the country in various capacities.” Gaskill Bappert said that while her Hastings High School education helped prepare her to continue her education and go out in the world, it was the foundation and security provided by her family, especially her father, that laid the foundation for her future. “The three most important values my dad gave me are these: Faith, family, fun,” she said. “So thank you, Dad, for giving me a strong foundation and for loving me and supporting me along my journey.” YARD SALE Sat., June 23 9am to 3pm Michigan Fiddler’s Jamboree 1PM - 6PM CHARLTON PARK Hastings, MI FREE Public Admission Vendor Space (15x30) $10 advanced reservation • $15 Day of the sale Go to www.charltonpark.org–Special Events ARTS, CRAFTS AND For Registration Forms DIRECT SALES Or call Stacey to reserve your space: WELCOME 269-945-3775 Village, Museum & Recreation Area 2545 S. Charlton Park Rd., Hastings, MI 49058-8102 Ph: 269-945-3775 Fax: 269-945-0390 www.charltonpark.org 77568881 Dorothy Burpee Gorham speaks for the Class of 1947. Mary Pierce (left) accepts the Hastings Alumni Association Alumnus of the Year Award given posthumously to her husband, Gary J. Pierce, Ph.D., from Hastings Alumni Association President Donna Brown (right). �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 21, 2012 — Page 3 Seniors learn about scams, finances Karla Fales, CEO of the Region 3B Area Agency on Aging, speaks about many Medicare scams in the area. had a tape recorder,” she said. “They told me, ‘You will have to call Medicare directly because they are the ones who told us to call your aunt.’And I said, “Really? Did I mention we are the Senior Medicare Patrol Agency for Calhoun County?’ She said ‘Uh, uh, uh.” Fales said she still has not figured out how the agency knew her aunt was scheduled for surgery, but is working with the attorney general’s office to investigate the possibility of informers working at hospitals. “The agency’s physician called me and asked me to stop telling people they were crooks,” said Fales. “I said, ‘But, you are.’ And this person said to me, ‘I am going to take you out.’ When I asked them if they knew that meant they were going to kill me, they hung up. They have since tried to file suit against me. “Most people do not have me as their niece to handle this for them. They also do not know it is illegal for someone call a Medicare beneficiary and solicit services. So, the visiting physician who calls you on the phone, who comes to your home, and solicits for Medicare services is illegal. But, there is a loophole in the law which allows them to gain consent from you very easily.” She also said if all Medicare services are being provided in the home through only one doctor or agency, that is a red flag. Many times, she said, the person will be receiving more products and services than he or she needs, and Medicare is billed for them. Fales recommended against carrying the red, white and blue Medicare card in a purse or wallet. She said leave it at home unless necessary, such as going to a medical appointment. “Once someone has that number, they have access to your life,” said Fales. “Once they have that number, they can bill for things. If you haven’t noticed, it’s your Social Security number, so they have access to a lot of your information. If you need to go to the hospital on an emergency, they will let you slide a bit, chances are the hospital already has your information. She mentioned another situation that should send up a red flag. “Medicare calls and asks you for your Medicare number. Don’t they have it?” The other big scam, according to Fales, is the free wheelchairs and scooters. “Remember, they are not free,” she said. “Someone is paying for them. Taxpayers are paying for them. There are very strict requirements for getting scooters and wheelchairs. The fact that you are all here in this room means you don’t need a scooter or wheelchair, but I bet it would take me an hour to get everyone in this room a wheelchair or scooter.” Another scam in Barry County, according to Fales, is the “grandparent scam.” Someone calls or emails to say a person’s grandchild is in jail and needs to be bailed out. Facebook, said Fales, provides plenty of information scammers can use to make them sound very convincing. She told the audience not to provide any information, but check with the grandchild, parents or friend to be sure of the person’s condition. A more recent big scam involves people who have filed taxes online, which requires an email address. Fales said the person will get an email saying the IRS needs some additional information, usually identification information that leads to identity theft. “The government already has all your information; they don’t need to call you,” said Fales. Check personal credit rating three times a year said Fales. “Not just to check your rating, but to see who else is checking your information,” she said. Fales’ organization currently has 14 investigations open with the Michigan Attorney General on Medicare provider activities. “One instance,” said Fales, “was a niece checking in on her elderly aunt. She noticed from the aunt’s Medicare statements that she was getting monthly foot care because she was diabetic. But, it was $14,000 a month. When she investigated, [she found paperwork indicating that] her aunt had her left foot amputated 14 times.” Fales encouraged people to call her, 269- 578-6168, the Barry County Commission on Aging, or 800-Medicare to report suspicious Medicare solicitations. Barry County Circuit Court Judge Amy McDowell spoke to the audience about the law, money and bankruptcy. She used as an example of a couple who spends their winters in Florida, and put their daughter on their local checking account for convenience. “The daughter was not financially responsible and had a judgment against her,” said McDowell. “Ford Motor Credit had a judgment against her for $8,000 on a repossessed car. She is on her parents’ checking account and has never deposited a dime. Because her name was on the account, Ford Motor Credit took all the money out of the parents’ account.” McDowell also spoke about protecting Social Security money from creditors. She has advised clients in the past not to deposit Social Security checks into a bank account. She explained creditors cannot garnish Social Security, but can take the money once deposited. She discussed the differing powers of bankruptcy trustees versus creditors and the consequences of bankruptcy on homeowners. She also told about a woman going through a divorce who took half of the money ($40,000) from a combined account. She gave her daughter the money to protect it from her estranged husband. Three months after the divorce was complete, the daughter transferred the $40,000 back to her mother. The problem, according to McDowell, was when the daughter filed for bankruptcy. The trustee looked at the money which changed hands and claimed the daughter had interest in the money, and took the money for creditors. McDowell recommended talking to an attorney before transferring funds into another’s name or creating co-checking accounts. If those accounts already exist, she also recommends speaking with a qualified individual about the ramifications. Barry County Probate Court Judge William Doherty also serves as chief judge of the Barry County Trial Court, which oversees administration of the three Barry County courts. As probate judge, Doherty deals with all matters of incapacitated individuals due to being a minor, elderly, mentally ill, chronically intoxicated or any other reason. He also handles any neglect, abuse and juvenile delinquent cases, and hears issues with trusts, wills, guardianships and conservatorships. He began by speaking about power of attorney and durable power of attorney. “Frankly, I love to quote [Ronald] Reagan and say ‘Trust, but verify,’” said Doherty. “When it comes to durable power of attorney, you better make darn sure that person is trustworthy. Then routinely check your bank accounts.” A conservatorship deals with property and gives a person the authority to manage the property, Doherty told the audience. The court also appoints someone to watch the conservator. “I think the most important thing you can do is what you are doing right now,” said Doherty. “Be informed. Listen to things that are happening, and protect yourself. “Most every scam involves family or friends. That’s what you have to watch out for ... it’s not someone calling from Kenya. It is usually family or friends who weasel their way in to gain the trust of an elder. Sometimes it’s a neighbor. They slowly move their way into taking care of things, like the checkbook or other things. You have to be wary.” For more information on how to protect assets and to report suspicious solicitations, call the Barry County Commission on Aging, 269-948-4856. Michigan State Police Sgt. Donna Thomas serves as moderator and informs the Commission on Aging audience about protecting personal information. 77568896 by David DeDecker Staff Writer In honor of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, the Barry County Commission on Aging brought legal experts together over lunch to speak about how the elderly can protect assets and avoid scams that prey on senior citizens. “One of the things we have undertaken here in Barry County is an effort to prevent elder abuse, which can come in the form of abuse, neglect or exploitation,” said COA Executive Director Tammy Pennington. “We are really working hard to make sure our elders in Barry County are protected against scams and schemes.” Sgt. Donna Thomas of the Michigan State Police, served as moderator for the day. Thomas has been in Hastings since 2001, first as a trooper and later promoted to sergeant. “I want to start on scams a little bit,” said Thomas. “If someone calls you and says you won the lottery, and you never bought a ticket or entered, you didn’t win. International lotteries are illegal, so if someone calls you to say you won the Canadian lottery, you didn’t. “Do not hesitate to hang up on someone if you do not want what they are selling. Do not give out information over the phone. In the computer age, all your information is out there, and there is no privacy anymore.” Thomas introduced Bob Knapp, a financial advisor with Edward Jones, whose office is on North Church Street in Hastings. Knapp began by talking about truisms that the audience may have learned from parents and grandparents. “The reason we have these old adages is because they are true,” said Knapp. He listed several including: “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is;” “There is no such thing as a free lunch;” “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket;” “There are two sides to every coin;” “There is nothing new under the sun;” and “Just because everyone else is doing it doesn’t mean you should.” Use the adages to check any proposals was Knapp’s advice. “Or, your money will be here today and gone tomorrow,” he said. Knapp said people need to take a long, hard look at any offers. Watch easy enticements, such as bonuses for signing up. He said the sellers are still making money, and a buyer needs to find out why an offer is so much better than anything else being offered on the market. “A no-risk opportunity” really is not a “nolose” situation,” he said. “Many times a buyer will not be aware of all the costs and fees involved with the transaction.” Buyers, according to Knapp, should always ask direct questions and expect direct answers. He said a person should know exactly what the costs are — the costs to buy, costs to sell, and the costs to own. Some deals are guaranteed not to lose money, but the buyer is also guaranteed not to make any money because of high fees. Knapp said never put more than 10 to 20 percent of assets into one basket; the risks are too high. “Preying on the elderly to make a quick buck is not new,” said Knapp. “There are some questions you should ask when approached. Has the seller fully explained the investment? What are all the costs and how do you access your investment? Is there a surrender penalty? What does the sales person get paid to sell this product?” In conclusion, Knapp said talk to family or friends — there is no immediate need to do something or do something under pressure. Karla Fales, CEO of the Region 3B Area Agency on Aging, spoke. According to Thomas, Fales has been instrumental in establishing an Elder Abuse Prevention Coalition in Calhoun County. “Most of the people coming into this area to present these deals don’t have an office, and they don’t live in the area,” said Fales. “They live in Southfield, Detroit, Novi, Flint and those areas. What we have been telling older adults is to ask where they are from — find out that information. If business is so good for them, why are they here instead of closer to home. It is usually because, it will be very difficult to contact them once they are gone. “When you think about it, how many people have bought a car from a traveling salesman? When you think about such a large investment, would you take that amount of money or more and give it to a traveling salesman?” Fales said a big push in the area currently is “annuity salesmen.” “They have been in Battle Creek,” she said. “I have stopped a couple of their presentation programs and almost got thrown out of one of them. They ask people to put all their money into one annuity, saying it is the only way to protect money from the government. They use a lot of scare tactics.” Medicare providers have been the most active in the area, according to Fales. “We have had some rather interesting encounters with Medicare providers,” she said. Her 92-year-old aunt, who had been receiving numerous phone calls from a Medicare provider, wanted them to quit calling her. Fales’ aunt said they have called her six times a day for two weeks. Somehow, the callers knew her aunt was going in for knee surgery. Fales said her aunt gathered a little more information on the next call, and Fales then contacted them to ask them to stop. “It was one of those times you wish you �Page 4 — Thursday, June 21, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Angry bird New bridge is a big win for Michigan This mama killdeer (above, right) isn’t particularly interested in having her nest photographed. She tries to distract onlookers as a way of protecting four eggs (left) at Outreach Christian Church on Jordan Lake Road in Lake Odessa. (Photos by Bonnie Mattson) We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom, Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Do you know? It’s a what? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event to reunite the photos with their original clippings or identify photos that may never have been used. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, 49058; email news@jadgraphics.com; or call 269-945-9554. Last week’s photo of a formal-looking dinner where hot dogs were being served drew no response from readers. Do you have any idea what sort of a machine this is? Do you recognize anyone in this photo? Do you know when, where or why this photo was taken? What can you tell us? Have you met? ‘Love of country’ has double meaning for Middleville man Sitting in his Middleville home, John Loftus is surrounded by the things that matter most to him — his family, love of country and service, and his agricultural background. Family photos adorn the walls of his living room, a veteran’s blanket lays across the couch, and a John Deere wind sock flutters in the breeze whenever a door or window is opened. Pictures of the many 4-H youths and their livestock he’s purchased are proudly displayed in the kitchen where he sits at his kitchen table and looks out over his farmland. Loftus, who turns 84 this summer, is known to many in the community always participating in community parades, the Veterans Day ceremony at the school, and often visiting at the Barry County Fair, supporting the livestock sale. For 43 years, Loftus worked at General Motors in various capacities. He served in the U.S. Army from when he was drafted in Nov. 21, 1950, and released from active duty in 1953 during the Korean War. He joined the Army Reserves, serving for another 15 years. He and his wife, Marge, were married Sept. 29, 1962, and have one daughter. They enjoy the company of friends and extended family throughout the area. He proudly sports his military uniform for parades and ceremonies and often is seen wearing a veteran’s hat. “I don’t want our younger generation to get the feeling that freedom is free,” he said. “We have to keep on our toes. If we don’t, we’ll lose the freedoms that we have. It’s important for younger generations to understand and remember.” As far as being involved, Loftus’ wallet is overstuffed with membership cards and certificates with veterans groups, service clubs, a steam and gas engine group and more. He’s a source of local and regional history, having lived in the area most of his life. cially military history and local history. Favorite music: Glen Miller Orchestra. Alive or dead, the person you would most like to meet: Jack Kennedy. If your were president of the United States: I would change Congress and get them to stop cutting veterans’ supplies and benefits, and I would keep a strong military. If we are prepared our enemies will be a lot less likely to try to hit us. Best thing about Barry County: The community. I have never been in a jam when someone didn’t lend a helping hand to pull me out. That’s community. Most proud of: I did all I could for my parents and I served in the military for my country. I worked hard all my life and took care of my daughter — just being a dad. If you could live anywhere else where would it be? Right here. I love it here. I do go to Florida in the winter now, but I love Barry County. Favorite hobby: gardening and farming. Favorite food: beef tenderloins, filet mignon, T-bone steaks, and I never turn down a cherry pie. Best advice ever received: Keep your nose clean. I guess I heard that from my grandfather, my father and mother — that’s what they all told me. Best advice you ever gave: Try to be all you can and keep your nose clean. Study and get an education. Favorite cartoon character: Bugs Bunny or Sylvester the Cat If you could have one super power what would it be? To be able to eliminate hunger and malnutrition and have good health for everyone. John Loftus He’s proud of his community and his country and says he couldn’t be happier than where he is right now. Be ready to smile, though, if you ask John, “How are you?” and be prepared for his long but endearing, trademark-like response. Favorite vehicle ever owned: John Deere 70, Farmall H, and a 1956 Chevrolet. Favorite book: any history books, espe- Each week, the Banner profiles a person from the community working behind the scenes, whose efforts may not make headlines, but whose dedication makes Barry County shine. We’ll provide a quick peek each week at some of Barry County’s stars. Do you know someone who should be featured? Send information to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@jadgraphics.com. Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder took a page out of former President Dwight Eisenhower’s book last week when he signed a cooperative agreement with Canada’s Prime Minister Stephen Harper to build a new bridge connecting Windsor, Ontario, with Detroit. Canadian officials said it’s No. 1 on their infrastructure priority list — a project that will increase traffic to more than 9,000 trucks each day and deliver over $110 billion in goods each year between the two countries. Snyder’s proposal is a win-win for Michigan taxpayers in that they won’t have to pay anything for the massive project yet will benefit from the economic expansion created by the increased trade. According to the agreement, Canadian taxpayers will bear most of the cost of the $3.5 billion project, with the U.S. government picking up the cost of all the local road connections and inspection plazas to the tune of over $260 million. According to Prime Minister Harper, “Our government is taking the measures necessary to facilitate trade and investment between Canada and the United States in order to generate jobs, economic growth and long-term prosperity.” Officials estimate that more than 13,000 construction jobs and related employment will be created during the four years of construction. Another 8,000 permanent jobs in the Detroit area are also possible once the bridge is operational. The last time U.S. and Canadian governments worked on a bridge project was in the 1930s when the Bluewater Bridge between Port Huron, Michigan, and Sarnia, Ontario, was built. That bridge was financed by the U.S. government which recouped its investment from toll payments. The bridge was then converted to joint ownership between the two countries in the 1960s. Organized opposition to the current bridge project is coming from CenTra Inc. and its owner Matty Moroun, owner of the Ambassador Bridge in Detroit. The Ambassador is the only privately owned bridge between the two countries. In recent years, the Michigan Department of Transportation and Moroun have been haggling over access roads and ramps to the Ambassador Bridge that were supposed to be in place by 2008. Yet, due to continued legal battles between MDOT and Moroun, all progress has been lost. Since Snyder came to office, he’s been determined to build a new bridge south of the Ambassador Bridge to solve the state’s travel and trade issues. “More and better jobs is the reason for this crossing,” said Snyder. “It’s time [to build it] because trade demands it.” The Ambassador Bridge was built in 1929 by a New York company and was sold to Moroun’s company in 1979 for $30 million. It’s estimated that over 7,000 trucks travel the old four-lane bridge each What do you day, handling over $80 billion worth of trade between the two nations each year. Snyder called for the project early in his administration, yet Moroun continued to support an effort to block any plans for a competing bridge. Experts say that Moroun’s company takes in around $156,000 per day in tolls on the aging four-lane bridge. Plus, truckers complain they have to travel through residential neighborhoods on both sides to access the bridge, causing long delays and frustration in getting through customs. The new bridge will be built south of the present Ambassador Bridge with six lanes, larger customs and immigration centers, and direct connections to U.S and Canadian highway systems. “Jobs aren’t the only economic advantage created as a result of the new bridge,” says U.S House of Representative Democrat John Dingell. “Canada is our largest trading partner, impacting over 237,000 jobs in Michigan and over 8 million across the United States.” “Leadership is the art of getting someone else to do something you want done because he wants to do it.” — Dwight D. Eisenhower Contrary to a massive advertising campaign, allegedly being financed by the Moroun family, Michigan taxpayers won’t have to pay anything for the project. The new bridge will be owned by Michigan and Canada, but will be operated by a private company with the responsibility to finance, build and operate the bridge from the profits it receives from bridge tolls. So far, the project has support from business and labor leaders, along with government officials from both parties. The project sounds almost too good to be true in that it will increase trade, provide badly needed jobs and maximize federal matching funds on roadways across the state with no out-of-pocket expenses from Michigan taxpayers. It will also help Detroit in its fight to turn around the city as the new bridge becomes an economic engine in the future. Martin Luther King Jr. said it best, “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” It’s time for Michigan taxpayers to offer their support to the Snyder Administration for a job well done — by supporting a project that could be just the ticket to propel Michigan’s industrial growth to levels we’ve not seen in years. think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website, www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week. Feel free to leave an opinion or comment. Last week’s question: Some municipalities, including the cities of Detroit and Zeeland, have outlawed the sale of synthetic drugs, most commonly known as Spice and K2, because chemical properties contained in them can cause mindaltering episodes and also lead to harmful physical effects. Should these synthetic drugs, sold over the counter throughout Barry County, be banned locally? 89% 11% Yes No Fred Jacobs, vice-president, J-Ad Graphics For this week: Hastings City Council members will vote Monday on a proposal to ban smoking in all city parks and are looking for constituent input before the decision is made. Should smoking be banned in all city parks? q Yes q No GET MORE NEWS! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 21, 2012 — Page 5 Budget woes seem like math problem on Pleasantview’s walls To the editor: Reading the report on the financial condition of the Hastings Area Schools System in last week’s Banner brought to mind how things such as mistakes seem to compound over time. Quoting the article: According to finance consultant Donald Sovey, the district will end its 2011-12 fiscal year with a $875,861 shortfall in revenues, leaving the district $535,081 in the red as of June 30 ... Sovey presented long-range projections indicating that, without a deficit-reduction plan, the deficit would continue to increase until the districted ended its 2014-15 fiscal year with a $2,178,005 shortfall resulting in a $3,697,292 deficit.” Now this brings me back to a little simple math equation that comes from the closing of Pleasantview School four years ago that was supposed to solve all the problems. Remember what was told to the public four years ago on this past June 16? State foundation grant ($6,900) multiplied by Pleasantview students leaving the district (40) multiplied by four years equals the amount lost to district ($1,104,000). In five years that number is $1.38 million and so on. Just like compounding interest, this blunder compounds over time. Now where do board members go next? Predictably to the employees with layoff notices and salary rollbacks, trying to cover not only the blunder of closing Pleasantview — an academically leading school in Michigan — but also misspent funds in the thousands to paying off the retirement book scandal, settlement with a terminated superintendent of schools, and ignoring a warning from BISD in a memo to the business officer that funds would be cut off, while spending blindly. Again, I ask the question: How can these long-serving board members be the public face of a once outstanding school system that has been run into the ground while they have been the leaders? All the self-congratulatory back patting will not put Hastings Area Schools back together again. It’s time for them to go. Larry Gibson, Charlotte Retired Hastings teacher Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. The Hastings Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Bonnie Mattson • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 To the editor: I am a Boy Scout from Troop 175 in Hastings. I am writing to you because I need to fulfill a requirement for a merit badge, communications. I would like to express my opinion about the two bridges being worked on at the same time in the city of Hastings. I think the two commissions in charge of constructing these two bridges should have communicated more with each other. I do not believe this was a wise choice to operate on two bridges at the same time. It has impaired my family’s driving schedule. It takes longer for our family to drive around because we live on the north side of the river. They should have done one bridge at a time, making it easier for those who have to travel on the Michigan bridge and the Broadway bridge. From my perspective, this project was not well thought out. Nathan Beebe Register of deeds job requires experience To the editor: When Sandy Schondelmayer was first elected as register of deeds, he had worked in the office for a full year, learning from Howard Ferris. He already know the job. When Darla Burghdoff was first elected, she had worked in the register of deeds office for eight years. She needed no further training. Darla was qualified and competent on her very first day in office. This is the logical progression. The work of the register of deeds requires a special mix of professional knowledge and technical skills. It is not something anyone learns from a book. Three good people are candidates for register of deeds, but only one is really well qualified for the job. Barb Hurless has been working in the office for 12 years. Only Barb can be fully competent at that job next January. The other candidates are perfectly capable of learning. With a year or so of intensive onthe-job training, either could function competently for the rest of the four-year term. But consider this. It would be Barb Hurless who would provide the training. Wouldn’t it be better to have a register of deeds who really earns the pay from the very first day? Debbie Scott, Hastings Johnstown Township has new hall, dusty roads To the editor: We the taxpayers of Johnstown Township provide officials with a new township hall, and in return they show their gratitude by depriving us of proper dust control. Why? After all, we’re dirty people, our houses are dirty, our cars are dirty, and we eat lots of yummy dust. We don’t deserve anything except to pay our taxes, so you can have nice things. That little strip down the middle of the road tells it all. I’m pretty sure the drive he had that dialed to ‘minimum control.’ It’s bad enough the township board always promises two applications a year, which never happens. That must’ve been the “extra money” in the general fund for the new hall. However, I want to congratulate Assyria Township, because they really did do proper dust control on their roads. I’m pretty sure they don’t have anymore money than Johnstown Township. I hope I’m not the only one who feels cheated. Carolyn Newberry, Battle Creek BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY by Gerald Stein NORTH N: Q J 10 7 3 M: A J L: K 5 4 K: J 6 5 EAST N: A K 8 M: Q 10 7 L: 8 6 2 K: 10 9 7 4 SOUTH: N: 9 6 4 M: 9 5 4 3 L: J 10 7 3 K: K 3 Dealer: North Vulnerable: Both N Lead: AN North East 1NT Pass South Pass West Pass In today’s column, another disastrous hand came up for the North-South team in a recent duplicate game. North opened the bidding with 15 high card points, and three of her suits were stopped. She had no voids, no singleton, and only one doubleton in spades. In other words, in today’s world of bridge bidding, North had all of the requisite cards and points for a legitimate one No Trump bid. That is what she bid. Unfortunately, her partner South did not have his thinking cap on that day. He looked at his hand, saw only four high card points, shrugged his shoulders, and pulled out the Pass card. Likewise, West decided to play along too, and she also pulled the Pass card out. The final contract was 1 No Trump in the North, a most unfortunate bid for the North-South team. Could they have done better if South had been awake? Let us see. N showed signs of disaster immediately for North. She could only The opening lead of the AN watch in dismay as the East-West team ran off the first five tricks in spades. Should East-West have been bidding the spade suit? It appears so. West finished off the last spade trick and looked to take even more against the hapless NorthK in the dummy. The lead of a South team. West led a small club that made it around to the KK L might have saved another trick or so for North, but West coolly played second-hand low, and JL L held. Leading the 10L L again provided another duck, but now North could no longer get the JL to that good diamond trick in the dummy. Nor could North lead a small heart from the dummy M in her hand. The results were unfortunate for most of the teams playing no toward her KM trump in the North-South hands. Of the nine times this hand was played, five North-South teams were set one, two, or three tricks vulnerable. This was not a good scoring day for the North-South teams. Was there a better way for North-South to make something positive on this hand? Two NorthSouth teams managed to eke out a one no trump positive score, but the defense appears to have slipped and allowed that to happen. Two East-West teams played in two spades, making two spades for a plus score for East-West on offense. What should South have bid with his meager four high card points? Time for the thinking cap, Mr.South. In an effort to create a better situation and a better contract for his partner North, South should have bid two clubs! This appears to be the standard Stayman Convention of two clubs, asking if partner has a four card major suit. The missing ingredient, however, is that the Responder promises at least eight points and at least one four-card major. In this case, there is a four-card major, four hearts, but certainly no eight points. How then can South ever justify making a Stayman Convention bid? The answer is, of course, that South can bid a seldom-used bid of two clubs with less than eight high card points. He must, however, be short in the club suit, meaning a void, or one, or K and two at the most. In this hand, South had the right number of clubs: two including the KK the three of clubs. North, trusting her partner, would naturally respond two hearts, informing her partner that she indeed has four hearts as requested. When the bidding came around to South again, he would have passed immediately, and unless East-West intervened with a spade bid, North would have played the hand in two hearts, making two hearts and receiving a positive score for their partnership. And just what is this bid called? And how do you tell your partner that you have lied to her about your hand? This is a bid called Garbage Stayman, and it works like this. With a garbage hand like South has, he looks to see if he is short in clubs. If so, he bids two clubs, initiating the Stayman Convention. However, no matter what his partner North answers, South is prepared to pass immediately. South will pass two diamonds gladly since he has four of them; South will pass two hearts gladly since he has four of them; he will pass spades reluctantly as he only has three of them, but the outcome is much better than playing in one no trump going set. While not often does this scenario appear, when it does, thinking of Garbage Stayman might just save the day for your partnership. Think about it. ***** Answer to last week’s bridge question: What does it mean “to cut the muster”? Once again, Rosy has mangled the English language: Her response of “to cut the mustard” was an incorrect usage. “To cut the muster” is a military term meaning that one is eligible or prepared for military service. “To not cut the muster” means one is ineligible or ill-prepared for military service. ***** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) Call 945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads Blessing of the animals is June 24 Our Lady of Great Oak Church is preparing for its annual animal blessing set for Sunday, June 24, at the 8:30 a.m. mass. “This is a special service, one in which we pay respect and bless all animals for what they are as God’s creatures and what they mean to us in our lives,” said parishioner Kay Doyle. “All are welcome to attend even those who do not have an animal.” Those who bring pets are asked to look after and be in control of them. Participants are asked to bring photographs of deceased beloved pets to be posted on a memorial board during the service. There will also be a memorial book in which to write their names. The service will take place outdoors in the tree-lined churchyard. Our Lady is located between North Avenue and M-66 on Lacey Road. Rev. John Tran will officiate. Participants should bring lawn chairs or blankets and are invited to enjoy coffee and rolls after mass. For more information, call Doyle, 269758-3116. In case of inclement weather, the service will be canceled. N: 5 2 M: K 8 6 2 L: A Q 9 K: A Q 9 2 WEST 07602558 IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV Bridge projects should have been staggered �Page 6 — Thursday, June 21, 2012 — The Hastings Banner GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. Worship Together… Area Obituaries Robert R. Peake Pasqual “Rick” Rodriguez Jr. Lyndia (McNutt) Crawford 77568752 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. CHURCH OF THE LIVING GOD A full gospel church. 1240 W. State Rd., Hastings. Pastor Doug Davis. 269-948-9740. Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study 6 p.m. Sunday School and Youth Group for all ages. Come and worship the Lord with us! . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. ORANGEVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH 6921 Marsh Rd., 2 miles south of Gun Lake, Plainwell. Phone 269664-4377. OrangevilleBaptist.org. Pastors Dan Bowman and Adam Parmenter. Sundays - 9:45-10:45 a.m. Sunday school classes for age 2 through adults; 11 a.m. Summer messages: “God’s Ten Words For a Vital Spiritual Life” (The Ten Commandments); 5:30 p.m. Teen Word of Life Club; 6 p.m. “Guard the Gospel” A study of 2 Timothy. Wednesdays - 7 p.m. prayer; 8:30 p.m. Men’s Bible Study. MondayFriday - July 9-13 - 9:30 a.m.-noon, Vacation Bible School, age 5-7th grade with Uncle Al Torres - RBM Minstries. Sunday, July 15 - Guest speaker, Dr. Eldon Stevens. Sunday, August 19 - Summer concert. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Rev. Ryan Wieland. Sundays - 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Service; Sunday School and Nursery available during both services (Summer Schedule - Adult Sunday School: 9 a.m., Worship & Children’s Programs 10 a.m.) Youth Group, Covenant Prayer, Choir, Chimes, Praise Band, Quilting Group, Community Breakfasts and more! Call the church office at (269) 721-8077 (M/W/F 9 a.m.-12 p.m.), e-mail office@mei.net or visit www.countrychapelumc.org <http://www.countrychapelumc.org/> for more information SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 . LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 9:15 Contemporary Worship, 10:30 a.m. Refreshments, 11 a.m. Traditional Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Youth Pastor, Eric Gillespie. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. for children and youth, and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Junior & Senior High Youth Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Mid-Week Pioneers and adult classes return in September. Thursday: Senior Adult Bible Study at 10 a.m. and lunch at Wendy’s, 11:30 a.m. Vacation Bible School: Wed. & Thurs., July 25 & 26, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Sunday, June 24 - Summer Hours . Worship at 8 and 10 a.m. June 24 Barry County Jail Worship 1 p.m.; Vacation Bible School 5-8:30 p.m.; Annual Report Due. June 25 Vacation Bible School 5-8:30 p.m. June 26 - Vacation Bible School 58:30 p.m. June 27- Vacation Bible School 5-8:30 p.m. June 28 Vacation Bible School 5-8:30 p.m. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 945-2645, fax 269945-2698. Pastor Amy Luckey. http://www.discover-grace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service. 5 p.m. Summer Youth Group to Mini Golf. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot. com. Friday - 9 a.m. VBS; 9 a.m. Golfer’s Group Meets. Saturday 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday - 4 p.m Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball; 6:30 p.m. Financial Peace University. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Fiberglass Products Lauer Family Funeral Homes 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 DELTON, MI - Eight days after Robert's beloved wife Noreen D. (Pettitt) Peake, passed away, Robert, of Delton, joined her in Heaven. Robert was born March 2, 1935, at home in Hope Township, the son of Ray and Bethel (Hallock) Peake. Robert was a retired employee of ConRail, where he was a foreman for many years. Robert was a member of the J.I. Case Club, as he loved Case Tractors, and he would attend many tractor shows. He enjoyed collecting watches and railroad items. An avid hunter, Robert enjoyed riding dune buggies and snowmobiles. Robert is survived by his children, Sharon (Doug) Salmonsen, Kevin (Marilyn) Peake, Randy (Sherry) Peake, Scott (Pearl) Peake, and David Rench; brothers, Francis (Nora) Peake, Ralph Peake, Walter (Barb) Peake and, Richard (Diane) Peake; six grandchildren; several great grandchildren; nieces and nephews. Robert was also preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Leo and Russell and infant David Peake; sisters Dorothy and Donna. Funeral services were held at WilliamsGores Funeral Home in Delton on Saturday, June 16, 2012, with Pastor Larry Saunders officiating. Burial took place in Cedar Creek Cemetery. Those who wish to make a memorial contribution are asked to consider the needs of the family. Please visit www.williamsgoresfuneral.com to view Robert's online guest book. HASTINGS, MI - Pasqual “Rick” Rodriguez Jr., of Hastings, passed away on Saturday June 16, 2012 at the age of 83. He was born in Albion on August 16, 1928 to Pasqual Sr. and Ethel (Beard) Rodriguez. He attended Nashville Schools and joined the Army during WWII and was honorably discharged in 1947. He married Norma Jean Crawley in Angola, IN on November 1, 1952 and they were happily married for 55 years. He was a lifelong musician beginning with his family band and was known for playing music and various events throughout his life. He was a retiree from Bradford-White after many years of service. He enjoyed golfing and camping. Rick was a member of the VFW in Nashville and a lifelong member of the Moose Lodge. He was an avid walker and walked during many Relays for Life over the years. Surviving are his children, Donna Rodriguez of Cambridge, OH, Vanessa (Dennis) Hunter of Rockaway, NJ, Ricardo “Dusty” (Kimberly) Rodriguez of Hastings, Denise (David) Case of Hastings, Lori (Doug) Geiger of Woodland, Rita (Art) Wilson of Hastings; sisters, Louise Starks of Muskegon, Jean Huss of Charlotte, Pat (Howard) Downing of Nashville; brothers, John (Mary) Rodriguez of Middleville, Bill (Sally) Rodriguez of Middleville; half sister, Barb; sister-in-law, Bonnie (David) Roush of Hastings; many grandchildren and greatgrandchildren and many nieces and nephews; special friend, Betty Carey of Hastings. Preceded in death by his wife, Norma Jean; son, Ricky Rodriguez; brother, Pete Rodriguez. Funeral services were held on Wednesday June 20, 2012 at Lauer Famly Funeral Homes – Wren Chapel, 1401 N. Broadway in Hastings, with Rev. Chaplin Robert Olivarri officiating. According to his wishes, cremation will follow. For those who wish, the family would appreciate contributions to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. Please share a memory with Rick’s family at www.lauerfh.com. Keith “Connie” McMillen FAMILY FUNERAL HOMES Grace C. Howell EDGEWOOD, KY - Keith “Connie” McMillen, age 78, beloved husband of 53 years to Marie McMillen, passed away on June 15, 2012 at his home in Edgewood, KY. His parents Keith and Alice McMillen, of Nashville, predeceased him. Survivors include his brothers and sisters, Charlie, Lee, Susan, Patsy, Michael and Bruce; daughters Marcia McMillen-Cislo (Thomas), Mari Beth McMillen Speed (Lary Dean); grandsons, Everett and Drake. He graduated from Woodland High School Class of 1952. Connie had a long and successful career in sales and management in the material handling industry with Clark Equipment and Yale. He and his family lived all over the United States and traveled extensively. Connie retired in 1998 and in 2007 moved with Marie to Northern Kentucky to live near their oldest daughter and her family. He was a big fan of football and car racing. For many years he was an avid coin collector. Connie was a polio survivor. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the March of Dimes. Memorial services will be held on Friday, June 29, 2012, at 1 p.m. at Zion Lutheran Church, 6261 Velte Rd., Woodland, MI 48897. GRAND RAPIDS, MI- Grace C. Howell age 95 of Grand Rapids, passed away on June 18, 2012 at Clark Retirement Center in Grand Rapids. She was born December 16, 1916 in Kalamo, the daughter of Burl and Celia (Curtis) Will. Grace attended Hastings High School, graduating in 1934. She worked as a country school teacher in rural Barry County, until marriage and starting a family. Grace married Robert Howell on May 25, 1940. She was a member of the United Methodist Church. Grace was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Robert Howell; sons, Duane Howell and Terry Howell; brother, John Will; and sister, Barbara Scott. Grace is survived by her daughter, Roberta Humphries of Albuquerque, NM; eight grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; sisters, Mildred Jarman, Georgia Otis, Helen Green, all from the Hastings area; Joyce Criddle of Rock Falls, IL and brother, Neil Will of Hamilton, OH. Memorial contributions may be made to Clark Retirement Community Foundation, 1551 Franklin St., SE., Grand Rapids, MI 49506-3331 or Faith Hospice 2100 Raybrook SE., Suite 300, Grand Rapids, MI 49546-5783. A memorial service will be held Friday, June 22, 2012 at 2 p.m. at Clark Retirement Center Chapel, 1551 Franklin St., SE, Grand Rapids, MI. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a message or memory to the family. HASTINGS, MI - Lyndia (McNutt) Crawford, age 65, of Hastings passed away June 17, 2012 at St. Mary Hospital in Grand Rapids. She was born February 15, 1947 in Hastings, the daughter of George and Norma J. (Anderson) McNutt. Lyndia attended Hastings High School, graduating in 1965. She worked at the Viking Corporation in Hastings for 41 years, from 1969 until 2010, when she retired. Lyndia loved gardening, her flowers and loved being at the lake. She was preceded in death by her father, William George McNutt; daughter, Shawn Marie Champion and nephew, Frank Shellenbarger. Lyndia is survived by her two sons, Mike (Michele) Champion of Comstock Park and Chuck Champion of Lacey; mother, Norma McNutt; seven grandchildren, Erin, Ben, Courtney, Dallas, Shawna, Tana and Matt Champion; one great grandson, Kayden Holmes; sisters, Georgia (Bill) Tinkler of Elkhart, IN, Connie (Ort) Hobert of Hastings, Jacqueline (William) Moran of Grand Rapids; brother, William (Linda) McNutt of Hastings and many nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held Thursday, June 21, 2012 at 4 p.m. at the Girrbach Funeral Home. Pastor Dan Graybill will officiate the service. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book and to leave a memory or message to the family. Gordon W. Hecker GENEAVA TOWNSHIP, MI - Gordon W. Hecker, age 71, of Geneva Township died the morning of Saturday, June 9, 2012 at his South Haven home. He was born to Lawrence “Doc” and Lucille (DeWitt) Hecker in Nashville, on October 2, 1940. As a young man, Gordon was an adventurer and loved the outdoors. During his school years, he was an avid swimmer and tennis player competing in state finals and also took interest in theater. In 1958, Gordon graduated from Hastings High School and started undergraduate studies at Central Michigan University and later earned a bachelor of science degree from Western Michigan University. Gordon served in the U.S. Army, stationed in Okinawa, during the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged in 1968. During the 1970s, Gordon took interest in carpentry and a “back to the land” way of living. His interest in preservation of the environment evolved into the study of water chemistry, and, by 1978, he successfully owned and operated Hastings Water Conditioning. Gordon’s passion for learning and reading led him to open a second business, a local Hastings bookstore, appropriately named “Discovery.” Gordon later transitioned to the lakeshore town of South Haven where he took pride in furniture finishing, helping to raise his two daughters, and eventual retirement. Throughout his life, Gordon had many additional interests including sailing his Salt-19 “Pug,” “homemade” music, talking politics and religion, and his passion for genealogy and historical preservation inspired his contributions to Nashville’s Putnam Library and Historical Society. Gordon is preceded in death by his father. He is survived by his mother, Lucille (DeWitt) Hecker of Hastings; his children, Kelly (Gerald) Jimmerson of Fennville and Leslie (Buck) Quinn of Coloma; three grandchildren, Oliver and Tristan Jimmerson and Millie Quinn; and former spouse, Kathy Crandall of Mendon. Graveside services will take place on June 24, 2012 at 11 a.m. at the Lakeview Cemetery in Nashville. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guest book at www.FilbrandtFFH.com. The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven, 6370333. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 21, 2012 — Page 7 Patricia Joann Wykoff DOWLING, MI - Patricia Joann Wykoff, age 72, of Dowling, passed away June 14, 2012 at Woodlawn Meadows in Hastings. She was born April 25, 1940 in Knoxville, TN, the daughter of Ulyses Benjamin and Clara Barton Cook. Patricia obtained the following degrees from Western Michigan University: bachelor’s degree in June 1962; master’s degree in teaching of science in April 1967 and a master’s degree in computer science in August of 1985. In addition to her degrees at WMU, she did pre-doctoral study in computer science at the University of Michigan. Patricia was a lifelong educator and researcher of mathematics and computer science, in particular, at Western Michigan University. She was fascinated by computers, especially home computing from the earliest days. Patricia was preceded in death by her parents; and sister, Mary Frances (Cook) Cummins. She is survived by her husband, Jack N. Wykoff of Dowling; son, Timothy (Michele) Wykoff of Jenison; grandchildren, Connor and Evan Wykoff; daughter, Lori (Scott) Farrisee of South Bend, IN; grandchildren, Ryan and Patrick Farrisee; brother, Raymond Cook of Coldwater. Respecting her wishes, cremation has taken place and a private family burial service at Banfield Cemetery will take place at a later date. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Woodlawn Meadows for wonderful, compassionate care for almost two years. Memorial contributions may be made to Michigan Alzheimer’s Disease Center, 300 North Ingalls, Room 3D14, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-0489 (www.med.umich.edu/alzheimers). Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message to the family. Lori S. Raber Jack G. Dawson, Sr. Newborn Babies Adelaide Jean, born at Spectrum Hospital on June 9, 2012 at 2:30 p.m. to Matt and Katie (Rogers) Demny. Weighing 8 lbs. 12 ozs. and 20.5 inches long. Welcomed by proud grandparents Carol and the late Gary Rogers of Hastings and Larry and Betsy Demny of Traverse City. ***** Lynzey Alonna, born at Pennock Hospital on June 3, 2012 at 2:28 p.m. to Jessica and Jay Hillard of Clarksville. Weighing 8 lbs. 4 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Lilyanne Rae, born at Pennock Hospital on June 2, 2012 at 2:51 to Jennifer Jenkins and Andy Tobias of Hastings. Weighing 8 lbs. 5 ozs. and 21 inches long. NASHVILLE, MI - Jack G. Dawson, Sr, age 82, of Nashville passed away Monday, June 18, 2012 at Spectrum Health Butterworth Campus, in Grand Rapids. Jack was born in the Nashville area where he attended W.K. Kellogg High School and graduated in 1947. He served two years in the United States Army during the Korean War. He was the husband of Rose Lee (Mead) Dawson. They made their home together in the Nashville area where they shared 52 years of their lives together raising their family. He was employed at Oliver's in Battle Creek for many years until the business shutdown. Afterwards, he was employed at E.W. Bliss in Hastings until his retirement. Jack was a very talented musician and enjoyed playing the guitar, and piano. In addition, he enjoyed fishing, carpentry, puzzles, and trips to Brethren where he owned property. Jack is survived by three sons, Jack G. (Phyllis) Dawson Jr. of Cadillac, Frank B Dawson of Hastings and Martin R. (Susan) Dawson of Nashville. He is also survived by one sister, Francis Mead of Atlanta; seven grandchildren, and 17 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Rose Lee Dawson; a daughter, Cindy Lee Dawson; granddaughter, Jamie Rose; and sister, Joyce Baker. Funeral services will be held at the Daniels Funeral Home, Nashville, at 2 p.m. on Friday, June 22, 2012, with Pastor Bryce Feighner officiating. The family will receive visitors on Thursday, June 21, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Daniels Funeral Home. Interment will take place immediately following the funeral service at Woodlawn Cemetery in Vermontville. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Daniels Funeral Home in Nashville, MI. Please visit our website at www.danielsfuneralhome.net for further details. Marriage Licenses Paul Jacob Melkild, Lowell and Brandi Michelle Lydy, Hastings. Christopher Lawrence Williams, Morganton, NC and Roxanne Lee Huisman, Morganton, NC. Breton David Hampel, Middleville and Alyx Kaye Lake, Hastings. Skyler Lance Friend, Woodland and Arbutus Nellie Drake, Woodland. Jason Drew McLellan, Wayland and Julie Elizabeth Trzybinski, Wayland. Christopher John Lilley, Middleville and Elizabeth Ann Ellsworth, Middleville. Brian Phillip Butler, Hickory Corners and Marci Lynn Melnick, Hickory Corners. Dennis Eugene Melczarczyk, Marysville and Beth Ann Blocksma, Middleville. Michael William Riley, Aurora, MO and Ashlie Anne Thompson, Hastings. Roberto Israel Bautista-Mendoza, Hunstville, AL and Emily Beth Martens, Hickory Corners. Jason Lee Hagerman, Hastings and Tiffany Ann Hause, Hastings. Christian J. Miller II, Middleville and Kristen Marie Vanderhoef, Middleville. Wesley Ray Muntz Jr., Naperville, IL and Whitny Linette Wood, Granger, IN. Kyle Claude Snider, Hastings and Alexis Ann Mennell, Hastings. Alliance welcomes Hop Head Farms Hop Head Farms has been working with the Barry County Economic Alliance and The Right Place in Grand Rapids to bring the art of hops farming to Barry County. The farm will supply hops to Michigan micro-breweries, such as Walldorff Brewpub in Hastings, Bell’s in Kalamazoo, Founder’s in Grand Rapids and New Holland in Holland. Owners Bonnie and Jeff Steinman are joined by staff members Mark Lawrence (far left) and Nunzino Pizza. Gun Lake Tribe responds to U.S. Supreme Court decision Monday, the U.S. Supreme Court rejected motions by the Gun Lake Tribe and U.S. government seeking to have David Patchak’s lawsuit dismissed on procedural grounds. The Court’s decision expressly declined to say anything about the merits of Patchak’s lawsuit, according to a press release from Tribe spokesman James Nye. It simply allows Patchak to go forward with his lawsuit back at the lower court, he said, adding that the Tribe is ready to continue fighting the lawsuit and is confident that it will ultimately prove that Patchak’s claims are completely without merit. “The Supreme Court clearly stated that this decision was not based on the merits. This is simply a procedural decision that has no impact on operations at Gun Lake Casino. The casino will continue to operate, employee over 800 area residents and provide millions of dollars to state and local governments,” said D.K. Sprague, tribal chairman. The likely course of action is a remand by the U.S. Court of Appeals District of Columbia Circuit to U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia before Judge Richard Leon, said Nye. Judge Leon’s decision in January of 2009 to grant a procedural motion by the Tribe and U.S. would have ended Patchak’s lawsuit. “This simply means that Patchak’s lawsuit can go forward before the federal courts, which may take many more years to finally resolve it,” he added. “We are ready to continue that fight in federal court and we are confident the facts will clearly prove once and for all that Patchak’s claims have absolutely no merit. “The Tribe would prefer to devote its resources to the economic development of the area; however, since Patchak’s lawsuit dictates otherwise, the Tribe will do what is necessary to prevail.” 269-967-8241 77568328 Jeffrey Scott Hurless James R. Swanson, age 75, left us and went home on May 18, 2012. Per his wishes, cremation has taken place. Interment services were held at Fort Custer National Cemetery on June 13, 2012. Memorial contribution may be made to Moose Charities, 155 S. International Dr., Mooseheart, IL 60539-1100. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a message or memory to the family. FREE Consultation & Estimates! ALSO EGRESS WINDOWS / MOLD REMEDIATION TWO BROTHERS AND A TENT For All Your Tent Rental Needs Tables and chairs available. Call: Dan McKinney 269-838-7057 or Tom McKinney 269-838-3842 06784455 James R. Swanson HASTINGS, MI - Jeffrey Scott Hurless, age 47, of Hastings passed away June 16, 2012 at his residence. He was born October 18, 1964 in Battle Creek, the son of Jack and Caryl Hurless. Jeff attended Hastings High School, graduating in 1983. He worked at East Jordan Iron for 18 years, until he retired. Jeff was also an automotive mechanic. He loved NASCAR and enjoyed demolition derby car racing. Jeff collected model cars and was also a stamp and coin collector. Jeff is survived by his parents, Jack and Caryl Hurless; brothers, Jack Hurless and Jerry Hurless and sister, Janet Hurless and many nieces and nephews. Respecting his wishes, cremation has taken place and no services are being held. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book. 77568846 There will be a memorial service for Lori S. Raber on Saturday, June 23, 2012 at 12 p.m. at Riverside Cemetery. Lunch will be held at Phyllis Manning’s home, 2893 Hammond Rd., 269-945-3689. Dish to pass please. Licensed / Insured / Local Call Scott 517-290-5556 • 877-448-1548 77566915 ® The Lansing-based Barons of Brass, which formed in 2004, likes to label itself as a group that plays music from the sublime to the ridiculous. Barons of Brass members are Todd Young, tuba; Dick Borden, trombone; John Endahl, French horn; Jim Kasprzak, trumpet and piccolo; Tim Thelen, percussion; and Scott Toaz, trumpet. The group’s playlist features more than 200 arrangements spanning four centuries and includes music in most every style imaginable, plus some original arrangements by the members. The Barons of Brass was selected as one of the few ensembles to perform at the 2011 Association of Concert Bands National Convention. Fridays at the Fountain concerts are sponsored by the Thornapple Arts Council, City of Hastings and the downtown merchants. Coffee Espresso Ice Cream Custom Sodas Sandwiches Fresh Baked Goods 77568900 Two groups will be performing for Fridays at the Fountain June 22: Thornapple Brass and the Barons Of Brass. Concerts are on the Barry County Courthouse lawn, from noon to 1:30 p.m., every Friday all summer long. In the event of rain, concerts will be in the community room at Hastings City Bank. Thornapple Brass was founded in 2003 by a group of friends who wanted to play brass music for quintet. Because members hail from Barry County, they took the name from the river that runs through Hastings, the county seat. Members are Forrest Evans and Bill Johnson on trumpet, Tracy Texter on French horn, Mark Hurless on trombone and Jake Blough on tuba. Musical styles featured by the Thornapple Brass include jazz, blues, show tunes, marches and traditional baroque brass quintet music. Every Day Serving Plainwell Ice Cream and Specialty Roasted Coffee 108 W. State St. Downtown Hastings COFFEE HOUSE Mon-Tue: 5AM-7PM Wed: 5AM-8PM Thur-Sat: 5AM-9PM Sun:Closed Facebook & Twitter @TheStateGrounds 77564841 Brass will fill the courthouse lawn Friday The Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads �Page 8 — Thursday, June 21, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of by Elaine Garlock The Lake Odessa Fair starts off with the parade at 6 p.m. Usually, bleachers are set up along Fourth Avenue for comfort and convenience. Besides there are church steps, many lawns, streetside parking for the early birds who stake out a spot in front of a friend’s house. Following the parade the grand marshal reception will be at 912 Fourth Ave. at the fellowship hall of Central United Methodist Church where grand marshals, Bill and Jewel Eckstrom, are members. The Lake Odessa Lions Club will be the hosts since they chose the marshals this year, on a rotating basis with three other groups. The Lake Odessa Area Historical Society invites one and all to attend alumni weekend at the depot museum. The alumni banquet will be Saturday, June 30. Richard Pitman will be the speaker for the Class of 1962, which is celebrating its golden anniversary this year. Richard is the son of a former pastor The Rev. Albert Pitman, who served First Congregational Church for many years. The public is invited to attend the weekend open house at the museum, not just old grads. Sunday will include an ice cream social to which any and all area invited. Saturday, June 23, is the annual garden tour sponsored by the Woodland Women’s Study Club. Who would know from driving past homes what lies behind the garden fence or in the backyard? There are seven gardens to visit with a prize for one who visits all seven. The soup suppers, child care and respite care have continued thus far. However due to the absence of the mastermind Leona Rayner, there will be no soup supper on June 28 or July 5. Other features will continue those weeks. Alethians of Central United Methodist Church met Tuesday, June 12, last week at the country home of George and Kathy Carpenter in Sebewa Township. They enjoyed an indoor picnic. The Red Cross Blood Mobile was in town Monday, June 18. William Eckstrom filled the pulpit at Central United Methodist Church June 17. William Walker was worship leader. Tom and Carol Reiser provided special music. Karl Klynstra of Berlin Center will be the morning speaker June 24. Incoming pastor Rev. Karen Sordan will be in place for Sunday, July 1, when Holy Communion will be observed on the monthly schedule. Yarrow, climbing roses, hollyhock, hydrangeas, day lilies and more are now in bloom. Register of deeds offers new services The Barry County Register of Deeds office has completed installation of a new receipting, imaging and recording software program. The updated system allows regular customers, title companies, title searchers and attorneys to access the index and images and make copies and payments from escrow accounts, completely online. “It’s not only more convenient for them, but because many of them drive in from all around the state, it will be less costly for them in fuel and travel time,” said Register of Deeds Darla Burgdoff. “Due to staffing and budget cuts, it is necessary for us to now be closed during the lunch hour, which is unfortunate for our customers. By providing this online service, we hopefully can offset that inconvenience and still provide the information they need to do their jobs as well. “The general public can currently access the document index online, but cannot view images. Our goal is to open the image access to the general public once we have a credit card payment system set up. We are in negotiations regarding this now and hope to have it available in the near future.” The program is accessible at the website www.barrycounty.org, under Barry County Deed Search, and then register of deeds index search. The public log-in will allow the people to search for the document index by name, recording number of the document, and by document type and date range. For more information call the register of deeds office, 269-945-1289. CITY OF HASTINGS REQUEST FOR BIDS 2012 Street Line Painting Sealed bids will be received at the Office of the City Clerk/Treasurer, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 until 9:00 AM on Tuesday, July 17, 2012 at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. All bids must be clearly marked on the outside of the submittal package “Sealed Bid – 2012 Street Line Painting”. 77568885 Tim Girrbach Director of Public Services City of Hastings Position Available Assessing Assistant/Appraiser The City of Hastings is accepting applications for a part-time Assessing Assistant/Appraiser. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. The selected candidate will assist the City Assessor with field inspections, maintaining personal property records, preparing for Board of Review, processing Principle Residence exemptions and property transfer affidavits, updating maps using legal descriptions, as well as other clerical work. Must be proficient with computers and BS&A software. Minimum requirements include a high school diploma or GED and a driver’s license valid in the State of Michigan. Minimum 1 year of practical experience working in the assessment administration field. Minimum of a Michigan Certified Assessing Officer (Level 1) is required. Wage range for this position is $13.22 - $17.33 per hour and does not include a fringe benefit package. Minimum of 15 hours per week with a possibility of additional hours. An application form and full job description are available upon request at City of Hastings, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. Questions regarding this position should be directed to Jackie Timmerman, City Assessor, 269-945-6002. 77568891 Jackie Timmerman City Assessor Consider these financial moves when you relocate Almost everyone would agree: Moving is a hassle. In addition to selling your current home and finding a new one, you may need to deal with a new school for your kids, a new doctor, a new dentist — the list goes on and on. But you’ll also need to consider the financial aspects of your move — specifically, your investments, insurance, taxes and even your estate plans. How can you help make sure that your move doesn’t slow your progress toward your financial goals? Consider the following relocation “checklist”: • Open new bank accounts, and set up automatic transfers. If your move requires you to change banks, open your new accounts as soon as possible. And if you had your previous bank automatically move money each month from a checking or savings account into an investment, set up a similar arrangement at your new bank. • Decide what to do with your employersponsored retirement plan. If you are leaving your job, you’ll need to make some decisions about your 401(k) or other employer-sponsored retirement plan. For example, you might have the option of leaving your money in your former employer’s plan, or you may be able to roll the money over to a new employer’s plan. Alternatively, you could decide to transfer the assets into an Individual Retirement Account (IRA). Your financial advisor can help you make the choice that’s right for your situation. • Discuss your situation with a tax professional. You may want to meet with your tax professional to consider the benefits or liabilities of any differences in tax laws between your new location and your old one. You may also need to address any implications resulting from moving and changing jobs. • Review your financial goals. Some of your goals, such as those related to housing and where you want to retire, may have changed as a result of your move. So it’s a good idea to meet with your financial advisor to review your objectives. • Evaluate your monthly budget. If you followed a budget detailing your expenses and cash flow before your move, you may need to update it after you’ve settled in to your new home. If you haven’t set up a budget in the past, you’ve now got a good reason to establish one — because a well-planned budget can help you avoid dipping into your longterm investments to pay for short-term needs. • Update your insurance coverage. Make sure your vehicles, stored possessions and new residence are covered during your move. And if your health insurance is changing, be aware of what’s covered under your new policy. • Review your estate plans. If your move coincides with other important life events, such as marriage, divorce or remarriage, you may need to make some moves related to your estate plans, such as ensuring you have the correct beneficiary designations on any life insurance policies and your 401(k), IRA and other investment accounts. Check with your legal advisor to determine which steps make sense for your situation. Moving may require you to adjust many aspects of your life. Reviewing the items on this checklist can help you get your financial house in order when you move into your new home. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 33.92 +.49 AT&T 35.47 +.49 BP PLC 40.24 +1.22 CMS Energy Corp 23.75 +.33 Coca-Cola Co 75.74 +.54 Eaton 39.90 -.76 Family Dollar Stores 72.45 +3.03 Fifth Third Bancorp 13.13 +.27 Flowserve CP 110.04 +4.93 Ford Motor Co. 10.56 +.06 General Mills 38.80 +.86 General Motors 21.74 -.43 Intel Corp. 27.51 +.99 Kellogg Co. 49.60 +1.21 McDonald’s Corp 89.60 +2.09 Pfizer Inc. 22.71 +.52 Ralcorp 65.70 +1.62 Sears Holding 54.44 +3.78 Spartan Motors 4.81 +.26 Spartan Stores 17.84 +.54 Stryker 55.19 +3.41 TCF Financial 11.40 +.44 Walmart Stores 67.81 +.09 Gold $1,619.38 +7.15 Silver $28.47 -.52 Dow Jones Average 12,837 +264 Volume on NYSE 720M +40M Public Land Auction The following County Treasurers will be offering tax-reverted real estate at public Auction on August 1st, 2012: Barry & Ionia. The Auction will be held at The Barry County Commission on Aging, 320 West Woodlawn, Hastings, MI 49058. Registration will begin at 11:00am, Auction will begin at 12:00pm. Online bidding will be available via www.tax-sale.info. For more information or for a list of the properties being sold, visit our website at www.tax-sale.info or call 1-800-259-7470. Sale listings are also available at your local County Treasurers Office. 77568876 Seeds preserved in different kind of bank The City of Hastings is requesting sealed bids for its 2012 street line painting program. Bid proposal forms and specifications are available at the address listed below. The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in the bid proposals, and to award the bid as deemed to be in the City’s best interest, price and other factors considered. EDWARD JONES CITY OF HASTINGS REQUEST FOR BIDS 2012/2013 TREE TRIMMING AND REMOVAL PROGRAM The City of Hastings is soliciting bids for its annual tree trimming and removal program. Bid proposal forms and specifications are available at the address listed below. The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in the bid proposals, and to award the bid as deemed to be in the City’s best interest, price and other factors considered. Sealed bids will be received at the Office of the City Clerk/Treasurer, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 until 9:45 AM on Tuesday, July 17, 2012 at which time they shall be opened and publicly read aloud. All bids must be clearly marked on the outside of the submittal package “Sealed Bid – 2012/2013 Tree Trimming and Removal”. 77568883 Tim Girrbach Director of Public Services CITY OF HASTINGS Position Available Operator 2 - Dept. of Public Services The City of Hastings is accepting applications for two (2) fulltime entry level bargaining unit Operator 2 positions in the Department of Public Services. Applications will be accepted until Friday, July 6, 2012 at 5:00 PM. Position #1 will be assigned to the wastewater treatment plant and involved with the day to day operation and maintenance of the City’s activated sludge treatment plant and a neighboring township septic tank effluent pumping system. Position #2 will be assigned to the maintenance division in the Public Services Department and involved with manual and semi-skilled tasks related to the operation, maintenance, and repair of the City’s public work facilities and infrastructure. Minimum requirements include a high school diploma or GED and a Commercial Driver’s License valid in the State of Michigan with an “A” endorsement and air brakes. One year of related experience is strongly preferred. Beginning wage rate for this position is $12.12 - $15.50 per hour (DOQ) and includes a fringe benefit package. An application form and full job description are available upon request at City of Hastings, 201 East State Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Questions regarding this position should be directed to Tim Girrbach, Director of Public Services, 269-945-2468. Tim Girrbach Director of Public Services 77568716 by Dr. E. Kirsten Peters I work just a couple of blocks from a special kind of bank. It doesn’t accept money for deposit, it won’t finance a new car, and it wasn’t part of the housing bubble. This unusual kind of bank deals mostly in seeds that it preserves, sometimes propagates, and often disperses without charge to anyone who has a research use for unusual strains of crop plants. Seed genebanks are part of the unseen work that helps increase the chance more people will have enough to eat for supper tonight. The seed vaults are part of a federal-state partnership that preserves a vast number of crop strains, keeping alive genetic diversity that can be quite useful. “We have over 91,000 samples in our USDA [Agricultural Research Service] genebank,” Dr. Jinguo Hu said to me recently at Washington State University. Hu is the research leader of the Western Regional Plant Introduction Station. The seeds at WRPIS are kept in what’s called “short-term” storage — but that’s a relative term. Depending on the plant species, the stored seeds may last up to 50 years. The temperature of the main storage vault at WSU is just above freezing and has a relative humidity of 30 percent. It feels like a cool tomb, good for preserving the many drawers of seed samples it contains. There are other seed genebanks around the nation, each specializing in certain types of crops. Some of them came into existence just after World War II. The facility at WSU was started in 1947, Hu said. Among other things, the WSU seed repository holds 16,000 kinds of peas, chickpeas and lentils and 13,000 types of temperate forage legumes like alfalfa. The goal is to preserve and make available plants that are genetically diverse and can contribute to disease resistance and adaptations to climate change. That’s where the rubber meets the road — helping researchers and then farmers continue to bring in good harvests, despite changing physical or biological conditions. “Having seeds in storage also helps prevent a natural catastrophe from wiping out a particular crop plant,” Hu said. “The effort is international, with seed banks in Africa and samples we have from them helping to preserve plants that Africa needs for its agricultural conditions, just as our crop plants are preserved for our conditions. ” But even in the quiet and cool storage vault, seed samples age as the years go by. Because they won’t last forever, from time to time samples are taken out of the WSU vault and planted. In the fall fresh seeds are harvested and they go back into storage. The WSU facility has two farms that have about 100 acres total under cultivation in this regeneration effort. There’s a USDA/ARS seed storage facility in Fort Collins, Colo., in which seeds are kept in a vault near zero degrees Fahrenheit or in a frigid bath of liquid nitrogen for the much longer term. Most of WSU’s samples are backed up there. There’s also now a long-term facility in Svalbard, Norway. It’s comprised of a tunnel and underground storage chambers that were blasted out of the permafrost. The Norwegians simply hold samples as insurance against loss of repositories like the one at WSU. “Our system here at WSU is quite different from what the Norwegians do,” Hu said. “We are designed for ready access and quick dispersal to researchers who want our seeds. Last year, we sent out over 30,000 samples to scientific investigators who asked for them.” Some nations no longer permit scientists to collect samples of diverse plants within their borders for research. The ARS Plant Exchange Office has worked hard with these nations to facilitate plant exploration and germplasm exchange to bring in needed genetic resources for crop improvement. Keeping diverse crop plants alive in the world of industrial agriculture has its complexities. Like other parts of agricultural research and development, the job isn’t simple — but the rewards have great potential for all of us who like to eat. Agricultural research pays dividends each day on what we invest in complex efforts like the one Hu overseas. You can bank on that. Dr. E. Kirsten Peters, a native of the rural Northwest, was trained as a geologist at Princeton and Harvard universities. Follow her online at rockdoc.wsu.edu and on Twitter @RockDocWSU. This column is a service of the College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences at Washington State University. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 21, 2012 — Page 9 Cunningham is another lucky farmer who came to Barry County from a metropolitan area. Born outside Montreal in Canada on Sept. 30, 1892, the son of Mr. and Mrs. David Cunningham, he came to the United States in 1919 and worked in Detroit for Dodge for 23 years as a machinist. He was a foreman for seven years. He married Helen Stanley in June 1927 in Detroit. He worked at Aircraft in the Motor City for two years before coming here with his wife and son, Robert David, 21, who is finishing his third year at Michigan State college. Robert is taking police administration at MSC and is in the ROTC there. He is a Hastings High School grad. Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz revisited This is the 11th part of a series reprinting the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz promotion that ran in the Banner 60 years ago. An unidentified aerial photo of an area farm was pictured in the Banner each week, from Jan. 24 to July 17, 1952, and the owners of the mystery farms were featured in the paper the following week. The contest was sponsored by the Banner and 35 area merchants (listed in the April 12 edition of the Banner). ***** Hastings Banner, June 12, 1952 Lucky Farmer maintains large dairy, poultry farm Two grand women and their nephew operate the 22nd Barry County farm pictured last week in the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz. The farm is owned by Almira Reed and her sister, Nelle, and their nephew, Charles Hauser, located on Route 2, Middleville in Irving Township. The sisters, with another sister, Susie, who died about two years ago, purchased the farm about 29 years ago from Mrs. Marcia Hubbard. They first bought an 80-acre tract, and then added to it purchasing land from the late Bernie Walker. When he was 9 years old, after his mother had died, Charles Hauser came to live with his aunts. He had purchased land of his own and is now working the combined 235 acres. Charles, a well-known bachelor who often calls for square dances and sings at various functions, operates the place as a dairy and poultry farm. He has a fine herd of 45 Guernseys, 15 of which are registered cattle. He milks 17 cows at the present time. Generally, Hauser has about 1,000 laying leghorns and other than eggs and milk, does not have a cash crop. He follows a general rotation and normally has about two-thirds of his land in hay and pasture and the rest in small grain. He uses such modern tools as a field chopper, combine, tractor, etc., for harvesting. The dairy barn, 36 by 56, was erected shortly before World War II. The stanchions are of concrete and steel. Two bee hives on the farm provide more than enough honey for household use. ***** Hastings Banner, June 19, 1952 Another Lucky Farmer in grassland business Another Barry County farm successfully utilizing grass silage and a grass land program was pictured in the current Lucky Farmers Photo Quiz. An aerial view of the David J. Cunningham farm, located eight miles southwest of Hastings on M-43 was pictured in the last issue of the Banner. Cunningham, who lives with his wife, Helen, on Route 5, in 1944 moved onto the former Lester Fisher farm which they purchased the year previous. The first year they bought the farm it was rented by Roy Wells. Dairying is the principal “crop” on the Cunningham farm, and much of the acreage is in grass. They have 104 acres with 84 in crops, eight acres of woods and some unproductive land. They also rent 119 acres of Mrs. Ida Carpenter’s farm and have 23 acres of wheat and 12 acres of oats plus grass there. This year he seeded 12 acres of oats on his own farm. Most of the land is in alfalfa-brome and some ladino cover. Cunningham started using grass silage in 1950, storing it in his 12 by 45 silo. He likes the silage and said his production had almost doubled since he started using it. He added that he had improved his herd during that period, too. Using artificial insemination, Cunningham has a herd of 24 purebred Holsteins and five grade cattle. He’s milking 11 now. His modern dairy barn is 108 feet long one way and one wing is 24 by 30. The home is completely modernized. The buildings are in good shape. Cunningham was using a field harvester with chopper Monday when he was photographed harvesting alfalfa-brome in the lush field north of the barn. Assisting in the first cutting were Howard Ferris, George Clouse and his son, Clifford, and Garth Floria. LUCKY FARMERS - Almira (left) and Nelle Reed were photographed posing with their nephew, Charles Hauser, on the farm which won last week’s Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz being sponsored by the Banner and 35 Barry County merchants. The modern dairy barn on the Irving Township farm is seen in the background. – Photo by Barth. HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE LUSH FORAGE – David J. Cunningham, whose 104-acre farm was the 23rd pictured in the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz, is pictured driving the tractor that draws the field harvester as he makes his first cutting of alfalfa-brome. Cunningham, a former foreman and machinist for Dodge in Detroit, came to Barry County with his wife and son, Robert, in 1944. The farm was purchased from the late Lester Fisher in 1943. – Photo by Barth. CITY OF HASTINGS REQUEST FOR BIDS 2012/2013 HAND PATCHING HOT MIX ASPHALT PAVING The City of Hastings is accepting bids for hand patching of hot mix asphalt paving at various locations throughout the City. Complete specifications are available at City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings. Questions may be addressed to Tim Girrbach, Director of Public Services, at 269.945.2468. RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN Bids will be received at the Office of the City Clerk/Treasurer, 201 East State Street, Hastings, MI 49058 until 9:30 AM on Tuesday, July 17, 2012 at which time they shall be opened and publicly read aloud. NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The City reserves the right to reject any and all bids and to award the bid in a manner which it believes to be in its own best interest, price and other factors considered. TO THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Planning Commission of the Charter Township of Rutland will hold a public hearing/special meeting on Tuesday, July 10, 2012, at the Rutland Charter Township Hall, 2461 Heath Road, Hastings, Michigan, commencing at 7:30 p.m. as required under the provisions of the Township Zoning Act and the Zoning Ordinance for the Township. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the item(s) to be considered includes, in brief, the following: 1. Consideration of an application to rezone Parcel #08-13-014-045-00, located at 2620 W M-179 Hwy, Hastings. Described as: RUTLAND TWP W 5 A OF; S 10 A E 1/2 OF S E 1/4 NW 1/4 SEC 14-3-9 ALSO COM AT W 1/4 POST SEC 14 TH S 88 DEG 51' 43" E 1959.27 FT FOR POB TH N 00 DEG 04' 38" E 233 FT TH S 88 DEG 51' 43" E 11.5 FT TH S 00 DEG 04' 38" W 233 FT TH N 88 DEG 51' 43" W 11.5 FT TO POB Perspective bidders will be required to provide satisfactory evidence of successful completion of work similar to that contained within the bid package to be considered eligible to perform this work. Contractors will also be required to provide proof of insurance in the amounts included in the bid package. The property is currently zoned “C-3” GENERAL BUSINESS. The applicant seeks rezoning to “MU" MIXED USE DISTRICT, which will comply with the Township Master Plan. 2. Contingent on the approval of the above rezoning request for Parcel #08-13-014-045-00 from “C-3" General Business to "MU" Mixed Use District, a Special Exception/Land Use Permit Application to allow light manufacturing and warehouse/indoor storage, at 2620 W M-179 Hwy, Hastings, Parcel # 08-13-014-045-00. The property, contingent on approval, will be zoned MU, Mixed Use District. Rutland Charter Township Zoning Ordinance Section 220-67 requires a Special Exception/Land Use Permit for this request. Property is described as: RUTLAND TWP W 5 A OF; S 10 A E 1/2 OF S E 1/4 NW 1/4 SEC 14-3-9 ALSO COM AT W 1/4 POST SEC 14 TH S 88 DEG 51' 43" E 1959.27 FT FOR POB TH N 00 DEG 04' 38" E 233 FT TH S 88 DEG 51' 43" E 11.5 FT TH S 00 DEG 04' 38" W 233 FT TH N 88 DEG 51' 43" W 11.5 FT TO POB Such and further matters as may properly come before the Planning Commission. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Application for Special Use along with the Zoning Ordinance, Zoning Map, Land Use Plan, and Land Use Plan Map of the Township may be examined at the Township Hall at any time during regular business hours on any day except public and legal holidays from and after the publication of this Notice and until and including the day of this public hearing, and may further be examined at the public hearing to determine the exact nature of the aforementioned matters. You are invited to attend this hearing. If you are unable to attend, written comments may be submitted in lieu of a personal appearance by writing to the Township Clerk at the Township Hall, 2461 Heath Road, Hastings, MI 49058, at any time up to the date of the hearing and may be further received by the Planning Commission at said public hearing. This notice is posted in compliance with PA 267 of 1976 as amended (Open Meetings Act), MCLA 41.72a (2) (3) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Rutland Charter Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audiotapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/hearing upon reasonable notice to the Rutland Charter Township Clerk. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Rutland Charter Township Clerk by writing or calling the Township. All interested persons are invited to be present for comments and suggestions at this public hearing. ROBIN HAWTHORNE, CLERK RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP 2461 HEATH ROAD, HASTINGS, MI 49058 (269) 948-2194 All bids must be clearly marked on the outside of the submittal package “Sealed Bid – 2012/2013 Hand Patching Hot Mix Asphalt Paving”. Tim Girrbach Director of Public Services 77568889 UDSA REAL ESTATE FORECLOSURE SALE Thursday, June 21 — So Many Books ... Book Club discusses Biting the Moon by Martha Grimes, 1 to 2 p.m.; Pizza and Pages Teen Book Club discusses Trash by Andy Mulligan; Movie Memories enjoys Jungle to Jungle with “Jungle Book,” 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, June 22 — preschool story time enjoys stories about bats, 10:30 to 11 a.m. Monday, June 25 — Summer reading program, “Dream Big, Read,” continues; Kathy Crane art exhibit continues. Tuesday, June 26 — toddler story time enjoys the stories of Mem Fox, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.; open chess club, 6 to 8 p.m.; genealogy club, 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, June 27 — summer reading program features Critchlow Alligator Sanctuary, 2 to 3 p.m. Call the library for more information about any of the above, 269-945-4263. CITY OF HASTINGS Position Available Code Enforcement Officer The City of Hastings is accepting applications for a parttime Code Enforcement Officer position in the Department of Public Services. Applications will be accepted until Friday, July 6, 2012 at 5:00 PM. The selected candidate will perform and document code violation inspections in response to citizen complaints and routine daily inspections, and monitor corrective action taken and compliance with penalties imposed by civil infraction tickets and uniform law citations. Minimum requirements include a high school diploma or GED and a driver’s license valid in the State of Michigan. One year of related experience is strongly preferred. Beginning wage rate for this position is $13.10 per hour and does not include fringe benefits. An application form and full job description are available upon request at City of Hastings, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. Questions regarding this position should be directed to Tim Girrbach, Director of Public Services, 269-945-2468. 77568713 Tim Girrbach Director of Public Services CITY OF HASTINGS REQUEST FOR BIDS 2012 SIDEWALK & CURB & GUTTER REPLACEMENT PROGRAM The City of Hastings is soliciting bids for its annual concrete sidewalk and curb and gutter repair and replacement program. This work is to be bid on a unit price basis with payment based on field measured in-place quantities. 12412 Oak Ridge Drive Plainwell, MI 49080 Minimum Bid: $45,500.00 (or best offer above minimum bid) OFFER MUST BE IN FORM OF CERTIFIED CHECK THE DAY OF THE SALE Complete specifications are available at City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings. Questions may be addressed to Tim Girrbach, Director of Public Services, at 269.945.2468. DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY. 2BR, 1.75B, 2 STORY, 1 CAR BUILT- IN GARAGE Bids will be received at the office of the City Clerk/Treasurer, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan until 9:15 AM on Tuesday, July 17, 2012 at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. DATE & TIME OF SALE: JULY 5, 2012 AT 1:00 PM PLACE OF SALE Barry County Courthouse 220 W. State Street Hastings, MI 49058 The City reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in the bid proposals, and to award the bid as deemed to be in the City’s best interest, price and other factors considered. FOR INFO CONTACT: 800-349-5097 x 4500 Or USDA Rural Development 1035 E. Michigan Avenue Suite A Paw Paw, MI 49079 Prospective bidders will be required to provide satisfactory evidence of successful completion of work similar to that contained within the bid package to be considered eligible to perform this work. All bids must be clearly marked on the outside of the submittal package “Sealed Bid – 2012 Sidewalk and Curb and Gutter”. Tim Girrbach Director of Public Services 77568887 For future foreclosure sales and inventory properties access our website: www.resales.usda.gov 77568702 �Page 10 — Thursday, June 21, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE OF MORTGAGE CHARLES J. HIEMSTRA IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE IN THE MILITARY, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER LISTED BELOW. Default has occurred in the conditions of a Mortgage (“Mortgage”) made by Rick A. VanDeWeg and Tracy VanDeWeg, husband and wife, of 5205 Hammond Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058-8936, Mortgagor, to Lake Michigan Credit Union, a state chartered credit union, having its principal office at 4027 Lake Drive SE, Suite 110, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49546, which Mortgage was dated July 30, 2008, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on August 5, 2008 at Instrument Number 20080805-0007965. By reason of this default, the Mortgagee hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of said Mortgage due and payable immediately. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on this Mortgage the sum of One Hundred Nine Thousand One Hundred Seventy-one and 68/100 Dollars ($109.171.68). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by this Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the Power of Sale contained in this Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, this Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part thereof, at public auction to the highest bidder at the East Steps of the Barry County Courthouse, 220 W. State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 that being the place of holding Circuit Court in said County, on Thursday, the 28th day of June, 2012, at 1:00 p.m. The premises covered by this Mortgage are located in the Township of Hope, County of Barry, State of Michigan and described as follows: Lots 3 and 4 of Casa-Del-Mar of Acker’s Point according to the plat thereof recorded in Liber 3 of Plats, Page 64 of Barry County Records. PP# 08-07-070-003-00 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale unless determined to be abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period will be as provided by MCLA 600.3241a. If this property is sold at a foreclosure sale by advertisement, during the period of redemption, borrower/mortgagor will be responsible to the purchaser under this Deed or to the mortgage holder for physical injury to the property beyond wear and tear resulting from the normal use of the property if the physical injury is caused by or at the direction of the borrower/mortgagor. Dated: May 23, 2012 LAKE MICHIGAN CREDIT UNION MORTGAGEE THIS INSTRUMENT PREPARED BY: Charles J. Hiemstra (P-24332) Attorney for Mortgagee 125 Ottawa Ave., NW, Suite 310 Grand Rapids, MI 49503 77568132 (616) 235-3100 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Robert F. Lancaster and Lisa Lancaster, husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Polaris Home Funding Corp. its successors or assigns., Mortgagee, dated April 28, 2008 and recorded May 1, 2008 in Instrument Number 20080501-0004710, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fourteen Thousand Six Hundred Eighty-Five and 94/100 Dollars ($114,685.94) including interest at 6% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 07/05/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the center of Section 31, Town 1 North, Range 10 West, Prairieville Township, Barry County, Michigan, thence South 89 degrees 56 minutes 00 seconds East, 498.56 feet along the East and West quarter line of said Section 31, thence South 00 degrees 33 minutes 00 seconds East, 774.00 feet parallel with the North and South quarter line of said section to the point of beginning; thence South 89 degrees 56 minutes 00 seconds East, 175.00 feet parallel with said East and West quarter line; thence South 03 degrees 11 minutes 48 seconds East, 413.44 feet tot he Northerly line of Highway M-89; thence Northwesterly along said Northerly line, 205.41 feet along the arc of a curve to the left having a radius of 1959.86 feet and a chord bearing of North 71 degrees 30 minutes 21 seconds West, 205.32 feet; thence North 00 degrees 33 minutes 00 seconds West 347.89 feet parallel with said North and South quarter line to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: June 7, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 2485022633 File No. 682.2314 (06-07)(06-28) 77568532 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Jeffrey Lynn Smith, a single man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated August 4, 2011 and recorded August 10, 2011 in Instrument Number 201108100007599, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Wells Fargo Bank, NA by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fourteen Thousand Nine Hundred ThirtyFour and 84/100 Dollars ($114,934.84) including interest at 4.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 07/05/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Maple Grove, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 39 and 40, Fuller Heights, according to the Plat thereof recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 49, Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: June 7, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 326.8902 77568584 (06-07)(06-28) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Nancy Lucas, single and Hans Terrell, single joint tenants with full rights of survivorship, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated September 21, 2005, and recorded on September 29, 2005 in instrument 1153583, and assigned by said Mortgagee to CitiMortgage, Inc. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirteen Thousand Six Hundred Twenty-Seven and 42/100 Dollars ($113,627.42). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The part of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 16, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, described as: Commencing at the West 1/4 corner of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East, 376.70 feet along the West line of the Southwest 1/4 of said Section to a point North 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West 940.00 feet the from Southwest corner of the Northwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of said Section; thence South 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East 600.00 feet; thence South 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East 300.00 feet; thence North 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West 600.00 feet; thence North 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West 300.00 feet along the West line of the Southwest 1/4 of said Section to the place of beginning. he redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 21, 2012 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #404038F01 77568855 (06-21)(07-12) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Christine Danis, an unmarried woman, original mortgagor(s), to Argent Mortgage Company, LLC, Mortgagee, dated August 27, 2004, and recorded on September 7, 2004 in instrument 1133565, in Barry county records, Michigan, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Trustee for Park Place Securities, Inc.Asset-Backed PassThrough Certificates, Series 2005-WCH1 as assignee, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Five Thousand Seven Hundred Eighty-Nine and 89/100 Dollars ($135,789.89). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Beginning at a point on the East line of the West 1/2 of the West 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 24, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, distant South 330 feet from the Northeast corner thereof; thence South along said East line 208.71 feet; thence West at right angles with said East line 308.71 feet; thence North 208.71 feet; thence East 308.71 feet to the Place of Beginning. Toegther with a private non-exclusive easement for ingress, egress and public untilities over the East 33 feet of the North 330 feet of said West 1/2 of the West 1/2 of the West 1/2 of Section 24, also a temporary easement for ingress and egress over the existing gravel driveway located partially on the West 25 feet of the North 400 feet of the East 1/2 of the West 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4 of said Section 24. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 21, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #395495F01 77568758 (06-21)(07-12) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Sallie K. Stambaugh and Greg L. Stambaugh, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated February 24, 2005, and recorded on March 4, 2005 in instrument 1142271, and assigned by said Mortgagee to DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY AS TRUSTEE FOR T HE HOLDERS OF IXIS REAL ESTATE CAPITAL TRUST 2005-HE3 MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES,SERIES 2005-HE3 as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Five Thousand Three Hundred Ten and 02/100 Dollars ($105,310.02). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on June 28, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel A: A parcel of land in the Northwest 1/4 of Section 36, town 3 North, Range 7 West described as: Commencing at a point 17 1/2 rods East of the Northwest corner of Section 36, running thence South 9 1/2 rods; thence East 9 1/2 rods to the West line of Main Street in the Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan; thence North along the West lien of said Main Street 9 1/2 rods to the Section line of the North side of said Section 36; thence West along said Section line 9 1/2 rods to the place of beginning, excepting a parcel 26 feet square out of the Southeast corner thereof, which said parcel was deeded to the Consumers Power Company. Parcel B: A parcel of land in the Northwest 1/4 of Section 36, Town 3 North, Range 7 West, Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner of said Section 36; thence East 17 1/2 rods; thence South 9 1/2 rods; thence West 17 1/2 rods; thence North 9 1/2 rods to the place of beginning The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: May 31, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #401425F01 77568270 (05-31)(06-21) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Robert W. Bishop, an unmarried man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Countrywide Home Loans, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 27, 2003 and recorded September 23, 2003 in Instrument Number 1113915, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Bank of America N.A. successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP F/K/A/ Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, LP by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Four Thousand One Hundred Twelve and 1/100 Dollars ($74,112.01) including interest at 5.625% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 07/19/2012 Said premises are located in the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 2 of R.I. Hendershott Addition, excepting the South 3 feet, First Addition to the City of Hastings, Formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded Plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: June 21, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 617.8191 77568902 (06-21)(07-12) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage, made by EASTWOOD MANAGEMENT LLC, a Michigan Limited Liability Company, whose address is 1340 Forrester SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49508, as Mortgagor, to MERLIN T. SUTHERLAND, a married man, whose address is 6155 Oakmont Landing, Alto, Michigan 49302, as assigned in the Barry County Register of Deeds to Knowlco, LLC, whose address is 8379 White Pine, Middleville, Michigan 49333, and securing that certain Note between Scott T. Sutherland, as Debtor and Merlin T. Sutherland, as Creditor, dated July 13, 2001, and pursuant to that certain guarantee wherein Mortgagor, Eastwood Management LLC, guaranteed the Note mentioned above and secured the guarantee with Mortgage described above. There is claimed to be due thereon, at the date of this notice, for principal and interest, the sum of THIRTY THOUSAND AND 00/100-($30,000.00) Dollars with interest at the rate of 0%, as secured by the above-referenced mortgage as of this date. There also shall be attorneys fees, unpaid real estate taxes and costs. And no proceedings having been instituted to recover the debt now remaining secured by said Mortgage, or any part thereof, whereby the power of sale contained in said Mortgage has become operative; NOW, THEREFORE, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that by virtue of the Power of Sale contained in said Mortgages, and in pursuance of the statute in such case made and provided, the above said Mortgage, will be foreclosed by a sale of the parcels of the premises therein described, or so much thereof as may be necessary, at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse, County of Barry, Michigan, that being the place of holding the Circuit Court in and for said County on the 12th day of July, 2012, at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, of said day and said premises will be sold to pay the amount so as aforesaid then due on said Mortgage, together with interest payable at the rate of 0%, together with late fees, legal costs, attorneys fees and also any taxes and insurance that said Mortgagee does pay on or prior to the date of said sale together with interest thereon as though on an open account at the rate of 5% per annum; which said premises are described in said Mortgage, to-wit: PARCEL 1: LOTS 4, 5, 6, 7 AND 8, HASTINGS HEIGHTS, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF IN LIBER 3 OF PLATS, ON PAGE 41 AND THE VACATED ALLEY TO THE NORTH ADJACENT THERETO. PARCEL 2: COMMENCING AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF LOT 8, HASTINGS HEIGHTS, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF IN LIBER 3 OF PLATS, ON PAGE 41; THENCE NORTH 1° EAST, 33 FEET FOR THE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE CONTINUING NORTH 1° EAST, 160 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 88° 30’ EAST, 330 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 1° WEST, 160 FEET; THENCE NORTH 88° 30’ WEST 330 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. Commonly known as: 405 E Woodlawn, Hastings, MI 49058 The period of redemption will be six (6) months from date of sale. Dated: June 8, 2012 David H. Tripp, Attorney for Knowlco LLC Drafted by: David H. Tripp (P29290) Tripp & Tagg, Attorneys at Law 206 South Broadway Hastings, Michigan 49058 77568706 (269) 945-9585 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Trevor Brown, an unmarried man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Amerifirst Financial Corporation, its successors or assigns., Mortgagee, dated November 12, 2010 and recorded November 17, 2010 in Instrument Number 201011170010817, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Six Thousand Four Hundred Forty-Five and 87/100 Dollars ($66,445.87) including interest at 4.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 06/28/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The following premises County of Barry and State of Michigan: Lot 28 of West Beach, according to the Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, Page(s) 67, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: May 31, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 682.2896 77568311 (05-31)(06-21) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE MORTGAGE SALE-Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a mortgage made by DONALD F. HERRICK and ANNE K. HERRICK, husband and wife, of 5885 LAMMERS RD., HASTINGS, MI 49058, Mortgagor(s) to MORTGAGE CENTER, LC, of 29621 NORTHWESTERN HIGHWAY, SOUTHFIELD, MI 48034, Mortgagee, dated AUGUST 22, 2003, and recorded on SEPTEMBER 3, 2003, in INSTRUMENT NO. 1112348 in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, and State of Michigan on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, for principal and interest, the sum of EIGHTY-NINE THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED SEVENTY-NINE AND 10/100THS ($89,579.10) DOLLARS with interest at 6.125% percent per annum, and attorney fees as provided for in said Mortgage and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said Mortgage or any part hereof, NOW, THEREFORE, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to the statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on JULY 5, 2012, at 1:00 P.M., local time, said Mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, inside the Barry County Circuit Court Building in the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan (that being the building where the Circuit Court for Barry County is held), of the premises described in said Mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due, as aforesaid, on said Mortgage, with interest thereon and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sum or sums which may be paid by the undersigned, necessary to protect its interest in the premises. Which said premises are described as follows: All the certain pieces or parcels of land situate in the TOWNSHIP OF HOPE, COUNTY OF BARRY, AND STATE OF MICHIGAN, to wit: BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE WEST LINE OF SECTION 11, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, DISTANT NORTH 390 FEET FROM THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF SECTION 11; THENCE NORTH 307 FEET, MORE OR LESS ALONG THE WEST LINE OF SECTION 11 TO A POINT 381 FEET SOUTH OF THE NORTH LINE OF THE SOUTH 49 ACRES OF THE WEST 3 / 4 OF THE SOUTHWEST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 11; THENCE EAST 360 FEET PARALLEL WITH SAID NORTH LINE: THENCE SOUTH 307 FEET MORE OR LESS TO A POINT 390 FEET NORTH OF THE SOUTH LINE OF SAID SECTION: THENCE WEST 360 FEET TO THE WEST SECTION LINE AND THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. SAID REAL ESTATE IS IMPROVED WITH, AMONG OTHER IMPROVEMENTS, A MANUFACTURED HOME UNIT*. BORROWERS ACKNOWLEDGE THAT THIS UNIT IS A PART OF THE REAL PROPERTY HEREBY SECURED BY THIS MORTGAGE. *1994 CENTURY MOBILE HOME, SERIAL NO. MY9534929ABF. MORE COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 5885 LAMMERS ROAD, HASTINGS, MI 49058 During the SIX (6) months immediately following the sale, the property may be redeemed, except that in the event that the property is determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241 a, the property may be redeemed during the thirty (30) days immediately following the sale. _____________________________ KENNETH C. BUTLER II (P 28477) ATTORNEY FOR MORTGAGEE 24525 HARPER AVENUE ST. CLAIR SHORES, MI 48080 (586) 777-0770 77568282 Dated: 05-31-12 (05-31)(06-28) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 21, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Kyle C. Rickert, and, Stacia Rickert, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 4, 2008, and recorded on April 14, 2008 in instrument 20080414-0004028, and assigned by said Mortgagee to SunTrust Mortgage, Inc. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Three Thousand Four Hundred Forty-Four and 37/100 Dollars ($133,444.37). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 12, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 284,285,286,287 and 304, AL-GON-QUIN Lake Resort Properties Unit No. 2, as recorded in Liber 2, Page 63 of Plats, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 14, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #390522F01 77568674 (06-14)(07-05) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Daniel J. Kellogg and Julie A. Kellogg Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 25, 2006, and recorded on September 15, 2006 in instrument 1170072, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Seventeen Thousand Five Hundred Ninety-Eight and 47/100 Dollars ($217,598.47). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the southeast corner of West 20 acres of the East 30 acres of the South 1/2 of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 26, Town 3 North, Range 7 West, village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, for a place of beginning; thence West 245.5 feet; thence North parallel with the East line of said West 20 acres of said East 30 acres 574 feet; thence West 414.5 feet, more or less, to the West line of said West 20 acres of said East 30 acres; thence North 746 feet, more of less, to the North line of the South 1/2 of the Southeast 1/4 of said Section 26; thence East 660 feet, more or less, to the East line of said West 20 acres of said East 30 acres; thence South along said East line 1320 feet, more or less, to the place of beginning. Subject to a roadway over the Southerly 33 feet thereof. Also that part of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 26, Town 3 North, Range 7 West, Castleton Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as; Commencing at the Southeast corner of said Section 26 and running West along the South line of said Section 26, a distance of 574.14 feet to a point lying 245.50 feet West of the Southeast corner of the West 20 acres of the East 30 acres of the South 1/2 of said Southeast 1/4; thence run North 00 01 minutes 09 seconds East, parallel with the East line of said West 20 acres, a distance of 374.00 feet to the point of beginning of the following described parcel of land; thence continuing North 00 01 minutes 09 seconds East, parallel with the said East line of the West 20 acres a distance of 200.00 feet; thence run West Parallel with the said South Section line a distance of 50.00 feet; thence run South 00 01 minutes 09 seconds West parallel with the said East line of the West 20 acres a distance of 200.00 feet; thence run East parallel with the said South Section line a distance of 50.00 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 21, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #398034F01 77568818 (06-21)(07-12) STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-26124-DE Estate of ROBERT WALTER BOGEMA, DECEASED. Date of birth: 5/31/1923. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, ROBERT WALTER BOGEMA, DECEASED, died May 26, 2011. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to James Bogema, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 220 W. Court Street, Suite 302, Hastings and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Terri S. Macklin, UAW legal P38785 4433 Bryon Center SW Wyoming, MI 49519 (616) 531-7722 James Bogema 12812 Via Posada Way Victorville, CA 92392 77568755 (760) 947-8111 STATE OF MICHIGAN BARRY COUNTY TRIAL COURT FAMILY DIVISION PUBLICATION AND NOTICE OF FRIEND OF THE COURT ANNUAL STATUTORY REVIEW PUBLIC NOTICE ANNUAL REVIEW OF PERFORMANCE RECORD OF THE FRIEND OF THE COURT Under Michigan law, the Chief Family Judge annually reviews the performance record of the Friend of the Court. The review will be conducted on or about July 1, 2012. This review is limited by law to the following criteria: • Whether the Friend of the Court is guilty of misconduct, neglect of statutory duty, or failure to carry out the written orders of the court relative to a statutory duty; • Whether the purpose of the Friend of the Court Act are being met; • Whether the duties of the Friend of the Court are being carried out in a manner that reflects the needs of the community. Members of the public may submit written comments to the Chief Family Judge relating to these criteria. Send your written comments, with your name and address to: Honorable William M. Doherty Barry County Trial Court, Family Division 206 W. Court Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Timothy Voshell, a married man and Kimberly A Voshell, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 25, 2006, and recorded on January 31, 2006 in instrument 1159539, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-One Thousand Four Hundred Seventy-Four and 86/100 Dollars ($161,474.86). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Beginning at a point on the East-West 1/4 line of Section 28, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, distant North 89 degrees 34 minutes 20 seconds West 2383.60 feet from the East 1/4 corner of said Section 28; thence South 29 degrees 58 minutes 54 seconds East 416.11 feet; thence South 17 degrees 31 minutes 37 seconds East 34.09 feet; thence South 57 degrees 55 minutes 34 seconds West 502.99 feet to the South line of the North 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of said Section 28; thence North 89 degrees 40 minutes 28 seconds West 61.59 feet along said South line to the North-South 1/4 line of said Section 28; thence North 00 degrees 29 minutes 05 seconds East 661.68 feet to the center 1/4 corner of said Section 28; thence South 89 degrees 34 minutes 20 seconds East 284.00 feet along said East-West 1/4 line to the point of beginning. Together with and subject to a private Easement for ingress, egress and public utility purposes to be used in common with others, 66 feet wide; 33 feet East side of a centerline described as: Commencing at a point on the North-South 1/4 line of Section 28, Town 3 North, Range 8 West distant North 00 degrees 29 minutes 05 seconds East 1985.04 feet from the South 1/4 corner of said Section 28; thence South 89 degrees 40 minutes 28 seconds East 61.59 feet along the South line of the North 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of said Section 28 to the true point of beginning of said described centerline; thence North 57 degrees 55 minutes 34 seconds East 502.99 feet; thence North 87 degrees 01 minutes 05 seconds East 394.12 feet; thence South 69 degrees 19 minutes 18 seconds East 477.09 feet to the East line of the NOrth 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of said Section 28, and the end of said described centerline. The side lines of said Easement to be lengthened or shortened as appropriate to terminate at the South line and at the East line of the North 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of said Section 28. Also, the right of ingress and egress to and from Star School Road to the above described property across that portion of land described as: Commencing 660 feet South of the Northwest corner of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 28, Town 3 North, Range 8 West; thence East 660 feet; thence South 33 feet; thence East 3,300 feet; thence North 33 feet; thence West 3,267 feet; thence North 33 feet; thence West 693 feet; thence South 33 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 21, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #404164F01 (06-21)(07-12) 77568740 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Dennis J. Goit, a married man and Joyce A. Goit, his wife, to MCA Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated April 6, 1998 and recorded May 11, 1998 in Instrument Number 1011750, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by US Bank National Association, as Trustee, successor in interest to Wachovia Bank, National Association, as Trustee for GSMPS 2005-RP3 by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Two Thousand Four Hundred Eighty-Four and 79/100 Dollars ($82,484.79) including interest at 8% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 07/12/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The land referred to in this Commitment, situated in the County of Barry, Township of Thornapple, State of Michigan, is described as follows: That part of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 12, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, commencing at the Southeast corner of said Section; Thence South 89 degrees 48 minutes 23 seconds West, 334.56 feet along the South line of said Section; Thence North 00 degrees 15 minutes 25 seconds West, 422.00 feet parallel with the West line of the East 1/2 of said Southeast 1/4; Thence North 89 degrees 48 minutes 23 seconds East, 334.63 feet, thence South 00 degrees 14 minutes 50 seconds East 422.00 feet along the East line of said Section to the point of beginning. Subject to highway right-ofway over the Southerly 33 feet thereof and over the Easterly 33 feet thereof. Except that part of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 12, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, Thornapple Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Beginning at the Southeast corner of Section 12; Thence South 89 degrees 48 minutes 23 seconds West 334.56 feet along the South line of said Southeast 1/4; Thence North 00 degrees 15 minutes 25 seconds West 222.00 feet parallel with the West line of the East 1/2 of said Southeast 1/4; Thence North 89 degrees 48 minutes 23 seconds East 334.60 feet; Thence South 00 degrees 14 minutes 50 seconds East 222.00 feet along the East line of said Southeast 1/4 to the place of beginning. Subject to highway rights-of-way for Garbow Road and Robertson Road. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: June 14, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 2485022633 File No. 326.9185 77568697 (06-14)(07-05) 77568651 Synopsis Hastings Charter Township Regular Meeting June 12, 2012 Meeting called to order at 7:00 pm Pledge and roll call Seven board members present, 3 guests attended Approved May minutes & Various dept. reports Treasurer’s report approved Clerk AV ballot applications mailed Sundago Park special assessment Government Payment Service Polling Place Improvement Grant BIRCH Agreement approved Cemetery flags & tree removal Approved payment of warrants Board member comments Public comment Approved motion to adjourn 8:20 pm Read full minutes on twp. website Respectfully submitted, Anita S. Mennell - Clerk 77568874 Attested to by Jim Brown – Supervisor NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by ERIC C. ANDERSON, a married man, THOMAS S. ANDERSON, a single man, and MARK ANDERSON, a married man, as joint tenants (collectively, "Mortgagor"), to SAND RIDGE BANK, a division of First Financial Bank NA, a national association, of 450 W. Lincoln Highway, Box 598, Schereville, Indiana 46375, dated September 9, 2005, which was duly recorded in the office of the Barry County, Michigan, Register of Deeds on September 13, 2005, as Instrument No. 1152665, as assigned to CHEMICAL BANK, a Michigan banking corporation, of 2185 Three Mile Road NW, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49544-1451 ("Mortgagee"), pursuant to a Branch Purchase and Assumption Agreement dated May 11, 2006, and a Bill of Sale dated August 18, 2006, as evidenced of record by an assignment of mortgage dated September 14, 2009, recorded September 29, 2009, as Instrument No. 200909290009655, Barry County Records, and as amended by a first amendment to mortgaged dated May 5, 2010, as recorded June 4, 2010, as Instrument No. 201006040005390, Barry County Records, given to Mortgagee by Mortgagor and also by SHERRY ANDERSON, who is the wife of Eric C. Anderson, and CHRISTINE ANDERSON, who is the wife of Mark Anderson (the “Mortgage”). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgagee is the owner of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Seventy Seven Thousand Five Hundred Six and 34/100 Dollars ($77,506.34). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 12th day of July, 2012, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: The East 1/2 of Lot 7 and the West 1/2 of Lot 8 of Block 2 of James Dunnings Addition to the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded Plat thereof. Together with all rights, easements, appurtenances, royalties, mineral rights, oil and gas rights, crops, timber, all diversion payments or third party payments made to crop producers, all water and riparian rights, wells, ditches, reservoirs, and water stock and all existing and future improvements, structures, fixtures, and replacements that may now, or at any time in the future be part of the real estate. Commonly known as: 721 W. Walnut Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 P.P. #08-55-035-016-00 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys the premises at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee for damaging the premises during the redemption period. Dated: June 14, 2012 CHEMICAL BANK Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2487 (616) 752-2000 77568679 8412749-1 SYNOPSIS HOPE TOWNSHIP REGULAR BOARD MEETING June 11, 2012 4 Board members present; 1 absent. 5 guests. Regular meeting opened at 7 p.m. Approved: Agenda Previous Minutes Standing Reports Bills Delton Fire Dept By-Laws Notary Expenses Landscaping at Brush Ridge Cemetery Adjourned 7:46 p.m. Submitted by: Deborah Jackson, Clerk Attested to by Patricia Albert, Supervisor 77568872 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by ANDERSON PROPERTIES, a Michigan partnership ("Mortgagor"), to CHEMICAL BANK, a Michigan banking corporation, having an office at 333 E. Main Street, Midland, Michigan 48640-6511 (the "Mortgagee"), dated September 29, 2006, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on October 20, 2006, as Instrument No. 1171694 (the "Mortgage"). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgagee is the owner of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Sixty-Six Thousand Three Hundred Fifty and 52/100 Dollars ($66,350.52). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 12th day of July, 2012, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: Commencing at the Southwest corner of Lot 289 of the City, formerly Village, of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof and running thence West 20 rods for a point of beginning; thence North 8 rods; thence West 4 rods; thence South 8 rods; thence East 4 rods to point of beginning. Also (a) all privileges, appurtenances, improvements, buildings, tenements, hereditaments, easements, rights of way, licenses, riparian and littoral rights, mineral/oil/gas/water rights, rights to adjoining land, and all other rights belonging to the abovedescribed premises and which may hereafter attach thereto; (b) all rights to make divisions of such premises that are exempt from the platting requirements of the Michigan Land Division Act, as it shall be amended; (c) all rents, issues, profits, revenues, proceeds, accounts and general intangibles arising from or relating to the premises or any business conducted thereon by the Mortgagor including, without limitation, all rights, conferred by Act No. 210 of Michigan Public Act of 1953, as amended; (d) all equipment, other goods, and fixtures of every kind and nature whatsoever, now or hereafter located in or upon such premises or any part thereof and used or useable in connection with any present or future operation of such premises, whether now owned or hereafter acquired by the Mortgagor, including, without limitation, all heating, air conditioning, ventilation, lighting, incinerating and power equipment, engines, signs, security systems, fences, hoists, cranes, compressors, pipes, pumps, tanks, motors, plumbing, cleaning, fire prevention, fire extinguishing, apparatus, elevators, escalators, shades, awnings, screens, storm doors and windows, appliances, attached cabinets, partitions, carpeting, ground maintenance equipment. Commonly known as: 437 W. Mill Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 P.P. #08-55-001-107-00 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys the premises at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee for damaging the premises during the redemption period. Dated: June 14, 2012 CHEMICAL BANK Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2487 (616) 752-2000 77568684 8412856-1 GIVE THE GIFT OF NEWS! Buy your loved one a subscription to the best source of news covering Barry County! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. �Page 12 — Thursday, June 21, 2012 — The Hastings Banner No-wake buoys may be coming to three area lakes by Fran Faverman Staff Writer After hearing concerns from a citizen at its June 14 meeting, the Yankee Springs Township Board of Trustees set in motion a solution to a major problem on three lakes within the township. Marta Jurczykowski, a resident on Robbins Bay, rose to describe the dangers posed to swimmers and other boaters by the failure of some watercraft operators to observe no-wake rules on Gun Lake. She asked why there were no buoys to indicate no-wake zones and why neither the township, the Gun Lake Protective Association nor the Barry County Sheriff’s Department have addressed the problems. She described a recent near-miss incident that could have resulted in severe or even fatal injury when a boat towing two inner tubes narrowly missed a dock as it turned. She pointed out that two islands in Robbins Bay impair boaters’ vision; those islands should be marked with buoys, said Jurczykowski. She also shared concern with the speed some boaters use in the lake’s many channels. “They go full speed; they don’t know the rules,” she said. “Every channel should have a no-wake buoy. It is about safety. It is a very crowded lake.” Supervisor Al McCrumb said the township did not have facilities for buoys. Trustee Mary Cook amplified his remarks. “The problem is getting the buoys in and out of the water,” she said. Robert Lippert, zoning administrator, referring to a 2006 report, raised the issue of financing the cost of the buoys, saying he thought the recent Gun Lake Casino revenue-sharing award could be used to finance the purchase of the buoys. According to the report submitted to the board in December 2006, 13 buoys would take care of establishing no-wake zones on Deep Lake, Cobb Lake, and Gun Lake, plus the two additional buoys recommended by Jurczykowski. One buoy each was recommended for Deep and Cobb lakes, while 10 were recommended for Gun Lake in the 2006 report. Lippert suggested asking for bids to put in and remove the buoys. Mark Englerth, who announced he is running for the post of supervisor, said he would like to see the board pass a resolution that evening. “A collaborative effort, let’s be leaders,” he said. Some discussion of the cost of buoys followed; Jurczykowski said the discounted price noted in the 2006 report was undoubtedly no longer available; she felt some sort of discount should be explored by the township. Cook moved to appropriate $2,500 for buoys; Treasurer John Jerkatis supported the motion; it passed unanimously. Trustee Al Schwennesen, who lives on Cobb Lake, said that the lake association assumes the responsibility for placing a buoy on its channel. The buoy was several years old and in need of replacement, he added. Thornapple Township Emergency Services Director Dave Middleton said his department had boats and staff living in the township who could place and remove the buoys. The Payne Lake Road fire station has the space to store them. McCrumb turned to deputy supervisor Alice Jansma, asking if the township had the money. Jansma replied, “We’ll make it.” A portion of Gun Lake is located within the boundaries of Orangeville Township. The buoys to be installed in Gun Lake will be installed within the portion of the lake within Yankee Springs Township. There was no discussion of any possible arrangement for buoys with Orangeville Township. LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Diana Marie Peters, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 10, 2003, and recorded on January 22, 2003 in instrument 1096042, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Flagstar Bank, FSB as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Fifty-One Thousand Seven Hundred Twelve and 30/100 Dollars ($51,712.30). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 69, Lynden Johncock Plat #1, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 93. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 21, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #402486F01 77568865 (06-21)(07-12) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Bonnie M. Sofia, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 3, 2002, and recorded on July 9, 2002 in instrument 1083477, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Six Thousand Eight Hundred Ten and 98/100 Dollars ($96,810.98). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 5, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 64 of Lakewood Estates, according to the recorded plat thereof as recorded in Liber 4 of plats on Page 19, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 7, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #150768F02 (06-07)(06-28 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Danney Ellard, also known as Dan Ellard, a single man, original mortgagor(s), to Credit Union Mortgage Company, Mortgagee, dated July 25, 2002, and recorded on July 30, 2002 in instrument 1084628, and assigned by mesne assignments to MidFirst Bank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Three Thousand Five Hundred Seventy-Three and 25/100 Dollars ($73,573.25). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 5, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 2, 3, 4 and 5 of Reese Acres, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats, on Page 73 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 7, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #379423F02 77568360 (06-07)(06-28) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Rosemary Ann Davis, a married woman and Joel C. Davis, as to homestead rights only, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 9, 2007, and recorded on August 20, 2007 in instrument 20070820-0001071, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Chemical Bank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Five Thousand Five Hundred Fifty-Five and 96/100 Dollars ($105,555.96). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 12, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 11, Plat of Thornton Addition, Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats, Page 72. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 14, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #396291F01 (06-14)(07-05) 77568669 SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by MARK D. HAMMOND, A SINGLE MAN, to UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, Mortgagee, dated May 30, 2008, and recorded on June 6, 2008, in Document No. 200806060005989, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Eight Thousand Two Hundred Fourteen Dollars and Thirty-One Cents ($128,214.31), including interest at 5.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on July 5, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: COMMENCING AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF SECTION 6, TOWN 1 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST; THENCE WEST ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SAID SECTION A DISTANCE OF 379.50 FEET; THENCE SOUTH AT RIGHT ANGLES TO SAID NORTH SECTION LINE, 178.20 FEET TO A POINT ON THE NORTHEASTERLY EXTENSION OF THE CENTERLINE OF PINE LAKE ROAD; THENCE SOUTH 60 DEGREES WEST ALONG SAID CENTERLINE, 1516.69 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 26 DEGREES 07 MINUTES 58 SECONDS EAST, 470.22 FEET FOR THE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE SOUTH 26 DEGREES 07 MINUTES 58 SECONDS EAST, 178.34 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 78 DEGREES 09 MINUTES 57 SECONDS WEST, 583.16 FEET TO THE CENTERLINE OF OAKRIDGE DRIVE THENCE NORTH 10 DEGREES 25 MINUTES 30 SECONDS WEST ALONG SAID CENTERLINE, 246.34 FEET; THENCE NORTH 61 DEGREES 42 MINUTES 15 SECONDS EAST, 170 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 83 DEGREES 42 MINUTES 41 SECONDS EAST, 161.94 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 59 DEGREES 20 MINUTES 03 SECONDS EAST, 91.73 FEET; THENCE NORTH 81 DEGREES 48 MINUTES 33 SECONDS EAST, 149 FEET TO POINT OF BEGINNING. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 77568589 USDA.000085 (06-07)(06-28) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Daryl L Brodbeck, an unmarried man to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc as nominee for Polaris Home Funding Corp its successors and assigns , Mortgagee, dated June 12, 2008 and recorded June 30, 2008 in Instrument # 20080630-0006729 and corrected by Affidavit recorded November 30, 2009 in Instrument # 200911300011519 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: CitiMortgage, Inc, by assignment dated November 12, 2009 and recorded November 18, 2009 in Instrument # 200911180011265 and corrected by Affidavit recorded December 7, 2009 in Instrument # 200912070011776 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-Two Thousand Seven Hundred Seventy-Two Dollars and Twenty-Nine Cents ($162,772.29) including interest 5.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on July 5, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Southeast corner of section 1, Town 4 North, Range 8 West, Carlton Township, Barry County, Michigan, thence North along the East line of said section 2105 Feet to the place of beginning; thence West 725 Feet; thence North 430 Feet; thence East 725 Feet to the East line of said section; thence South along said east line 430 Feet to the place of beginning Commonly known as 7451 Cunningham Road, Lake Odessa MI 48849 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 6/07/2012 CitiMortgage, Inc, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-61931 (06-07)(06-28) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by David Irwin, unmarried, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated November 27, 2009, and recorded on December 16, 2009 in instrument 200912160012078, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Forty-One Thousand Seven Hundred Sixty and 88/100 Dollars ($141,760.88). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 22, Fiarview Estates No. 1, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats, Page The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 21, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #403949F01 77568860 (06-21)(07-12) 77568537 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by James P. Shields, single, original mortgagor(s), to Household Finance Corporation III, Mortgagee, dated August 16, 2006, and recorded on August 21, 2006 in instrument 1168918, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Three Thousand Two Hundred Forty-Two and 38/100 Dollars ($203,242.38). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 5, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 105 and 106 of the plat of Steven's Wooded Acres No. 2 according to the plat thereof recorded in Liber 4 of Plats, Page 60, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 7, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #326802F02 77568544 (06-07)(06-28) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Thomas F. Russell and Linda L. Russell Husband and Wife., original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 25, 2005, and recorded on August 12, 2005 in instrument 1151040, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Five Thousand Five Hundred Forty-One and 40/100 Dollars ($205,541.40). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 19 and the South 1/2 of Lot 18 of Hughes Park, according to the recorded plat thereof in Liber 2 of Plats, Page 57. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 21, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #404299F01 77568765 (06-21)(07-12) 77568579 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Gary W. Ellis and Nancy A. Ellis, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 1, 2008, and recorded on April 17, 2008 in instrument 200804170004189, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Two Thousand Five Hundred Ninety-Seven and 89/100 Dollars ($102,597.89). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 43, 44 and 45 of Steven's Wooded Acres, Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, according to the Plat thereof recorded in Liber 4 of Plats, Page 31 of Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 21, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #403975F01 77568746 (06-21)(07-12) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 21, 2012 — Page 13 LEGAL NOTICES FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Jerry L. Allen and Dawn I. Allen, Husband and Wife to Member First Mortgage, LLC, Mortgagee, dated March 26, 2010 and recorded April 2, 2010 in Instrument # 201004020003501 Barry County Records, Michigan on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred One Thousand Three Hundred Sixty-Six Dollars and Nine Cents ($101,366.09) including interest 8% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on July 19, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Baltimore, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 63 and 64 of the Plat of Long Beach, according to the recorded Plat thereof, also the Easterly portion of Lots 27 and 28 of said Plat described as: Beginning at the Northeast corner of Lot 27 of the Plat of Long Beach, thence Westerly 39.51 feet along the Northerly line of said Lot 27, thence Southerly to a point on the Southerly line of Lot 28 of said Plat which is 60.25 feet Westerly along the Southerly line of said Lot 28 from the Southeasterly corner thereof, thence Easterly 60.25 feet Easterly along Southerly line of said Lot 28 from the Southeasterly corner thereof, thence Northerly along Easterly line of said Lots 27 and 28, 106 feet to place of beginning; EXCEPT the South 40 feet of Lot 63 and except the South 25 feet of Lot 28, being part of the Southeast Quarter of Section 33, Town 2 North, Range 8 West. Commonly known as 9616 S. M 37 Hwy, Dowling MI 49050 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 6/21/2012 Member First Mortgage, LLC Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File 77568907 No: 12-63367 (06-21)(07-12) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on October 26, 2007, by Scott C. Mueller, a single man, as Mortgagor, given by him to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on October 26, 2007, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 20071026-0003530, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank on June 3, 2011, recorded on June 13, 2011, in Instrument Number 201106130005798, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of One Hundred Five Thousand One Hundred Thirty and 66/100 Dollars ($105,130.66); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, July 5, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF BALTIMORE, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: That part of the Southeast quarter of Section 4, Town 2 North, Range 8 West, lying South of the highway running East and West through said quarter Section, except therefrom: Commencing at the Southeast corner of said Section 4; thence North on Section line 9.25 Chains to the center of said highway; thence North 85 Degrees West along the center of said highway 10.37 Chains; thence South 10.10 Chains to the South Section line; thence East on said Section Line 10.34 Chains to place of beginning. Also excepting therefrom: Commencing at the South quarter Post of Section 4, Town 2 North, Range 8 West, thence North along the North-South quarter line to the center of Mixer Road; thence East 620 Feet; thence South parallel with the North-South quarter line to the South Section line of said Section 4; thence West 620 Feet to place of beginning. Commonly known as: 1634 Mixer Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058 Parcel Number: 08-02-004-452-00 The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: May 29, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933 (517) 371-8253 (05-31)(06-21) 77568304 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTENTION PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE: Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage by Jason L. Watson and Deena L. Watson, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Kellogg Community Federal Credit Union, Mortgagee, dated July 27, 2005, and recorded on August 22, 2005, in Instrument No. 1151437, in Barry County records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Sixty-six Thousand Two Hundred Fifty and 00/100 Dollars ($266,250.00), including interest at 5.0% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the lobby of the Calhoun County Justice Center, 161 E. Michigan Avenue, Battle Creek, Michigan 490144066, at 1 p.m. on Thursday, July 26, 2012. Said premises is situated in the Township of Hope, County of Barry, Michigan, and described as: The Southwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 23, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, excepting therefrom the South 726 feet thereof. PPN: 08-07-023-002-15 More Commonly Known As: 7807 N. Lammers Rd., Delton, MI 49046 The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be thirty (30) days from the date of such sale. Dated: June 11, 2012 For more information, please call: KELLOGG COMMUNITY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION Mark D. Hofstee (P66001) Bolhouse, Baar & Lefere, P.C. Grandville State Bank Building 3996 Chicago Drive SW Grandville MI 49418-1384 77568723 (616) 531-7711 FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Keith McNett & Lisa McNett, Husband and Wife to Ameriquest Mortgage Company, Mortgagee, dated July 7, 2004 and recorded August 5, 2004 in Instrument # 1131965 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned through mesne assignments to:Household Finance Corporation III, by assignment dated May 1, 2012 and recorded May 2, 2012 in Instrument # 201205020005138 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fifty-One Thousand Seven Hundred Eleven Dollars and Sixteen Cents ($151,711.16) including interest 8.15% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on July 19, 2012 Said premises are situated in City of Delton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the West one-quarter post of Section 28, Town 2 North, Range 9 West; thence South 89 degrees 56 minutes 14 seconds East 1214.40 feet along the East and West one-quarter line of said Section 28; thence South 02 degrees 54 minutes 51 seconds West 233.04 feet; thence South 89 degrees 56 minutes 14 seconds East 220.00 feet to the true point of beginning; thence South 89 degrees 56 minutes 14 seconds East 373.08 feet; thence South 52 degrees 20 minutes 58 seconds West 364.29 feet; thence North 60 degrees 26 minutes 18 seconds West 35.79; thence North 14 degrees 36 minutes 45 seconds West 212.14 feet to the point of beginning. Together with a private easement for ingress and egress and public utility purposes, 66 feet wide, described as: Beginning at a point on the East and West onequarter line of Section 28, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, distant South 89 degrees 56 minutes 14 seconds East 2094.40 feet from the West one-quarter post of said section; thence South 89 degrees 56 minutes 14 seconds East 66.08 feet along said one-quarter line; thence South 02 degrees 54 minutes 51 seconds West 881.91 feet; thence North 75 degrees 47 minutes 45 seconds West 67.30 feet; thence North 02 degrees 54 minutes 51 seconds East 865.45 feet to the point of beginning. Also, together with and subject to a private easement for ingress, egress, and public utility purposes, 66 feet wide described as: Commencing at the West onequarter post of Section 20, Town 2 North, Range 9 West; thence South 89 degrees 56 minutes 14 seconds East 2094.40 feet along the East and West one-quarter line of said Section 28; thence South 02 degrees 54 minutes 51 seconds West 233.04 feet to the true point of beginning; thence South 02 degrees 54 minutes 51 seconds West 66.08 feet; thence North 89 degrees 56 minutes 14 seconds West 314.09 feet; thence South 52 degrees 20 minutes 58 seconds West 283.59 feet; thence South 06 degrees 46 minutes 20 seconds West 206.14 feet; thence North 83 degrees 13 minutes 40 seconds West 66.00 feet; thence North 06 degrees 46 minutes 20 seconds East, 233.86 feet; thence North 52 degrees 20 minutes 58 seconds East 335.48 feet; thence South 89 degrees 56 minutes 14 seconds East 340.87 feet to the point of beginning. Commonly known as 4727 Walldorff Rd, Delton MI 49046 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 6/21/2012 Household Finance Corporation III, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File 77568912 No: 12-62955 (06-21)(07-12) Board of education approves 2012-13 budget and deficit-reduction plan by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Hastings Area Schools are expected to end the 2011-12 fiscal year with a $535,081 deficit, which is why the district’s board of education unanimously approved a deficitreduction plan, which will be submitted to the Michigan Department of Education for approval, along with a $20.1 million expenditure budget for 2012-13. Next year’s budget is $3.2 million less than in 2011-12. Before approving the budget, the board held a public hearing during which the district’s financial consultant, Don Sovey, gave an abbreviated overview of the proposed 2012-13 budget. Sovey said approximately 50 school districts in the state of Michigan are also in a deficit situation, and more are expected to join the ranks June 30; those that are in serious financial trouble will have an emergency manager appointed to run the district. “So, the work between this district and the department of ed is going to be critical in stabilizing the finances of this district and having it move forward so it is viable, financially and instructionally,” said Sovey, adding that the proposed deficit-reduction plan is designed to resolve the issue in three years, even though it is less aggressive than the one proposed during the board work session the previous week. “There is a lot of uncharted water, right now, on the revenue side in the Legislature,” he said, “and there is going to be a continued tightening of expenditures as we go forward.” “CPAs will recommend a 15 to 20 percent fund balance; this is a 3.7 percent or 14 days of operating expenses,” he said of the district’s projected fund balance at the end of the three-year deficit-reduction plan June 30, 2015. “We believe we have implemented a transparent, user-friendly, budget process, and suggest the board develop a fund balance policy down the road.” Sovey said that while the deficit-reduction plan presented to the board during its work session last week called for $1.6 million in compensation and position reductions starting with the 2012-13 fiscal year, the proposal the board approved Monday starts with $1,386,463 for 2012-13, increases to $1.5 million for 2013-14 and tops out at $1.6 million for the 2014-15 fiscal year. “This probably makes it a little more achievable and is still what I think the department of ed is going to be looking for,” he said. Later, before the vote to approve the budget and deficit plan, Board Trustee Dan Patton questioned the $1.38 million in compensation and position reductions, in addition to more than $2 million in other proposed cuts suggested for the 21012-13 by Sovey. “Where do we find $1.3 million for 201213?” he asked. “We have to find that; we have to have those reductions,” said Board President Kevin Beck. “There’s not many other places.” “So we’re going to adopt the budget tonight, on the assumption of getting back $1.3 [million], right?” asked Patton. “Yes,” said Beck. “I think these budgets have been combed over and combed over so much that all the other areas have been reduced, I don’t know where further reductions could come,” said Sovey. “So, it comes down to compensation and positions.” Sovey explained during the hearing that districts spend 85 percent of their budgets on compensation and positions. in the ISD — it negatively impacts our K-12 budget and it negatively impacts special education kids in our district. But, we are approving their general fund, not their special education ... We need to work together, and we need proper funding.” Board Trustee Rob Longstreet said that “I think these budgets have been combed over and combed over so much that all the other areas have been reduced, I don’t know where further reductions could come. So, it comes down to compensation and positions.” Don Sovey, financial consultant “I think that Don is right,” said Interim Superintendent Michelle Falcon. “We have cut everywhere we possibly could and, unless we eliminate bodies, I don’t know how else we can do it.” Earlier during the public hearing, Beck said the budget and deficit-reduction plan puts pressure on the board to find ways to enhance district revenues. Sovey said districts can increase revenues through marketing to attract students, working with the intermediate school district to get voters to pass an enhancement millage for the whole county, passing a special education millage, building and site funds for the building maintenance in the school district, a bond issue for facility upgrades and building maintenance, or a recreational millage. However, Sovey said he did not recommend a recreational millage at this time because other sources would produce better results. Board Trustee Gene Haas said he has been pleased with the budgeting process. “This year the process has been much more rigorous and time-consuming than it ever has been before,” he said. “And, again, when we look at participation that we had in the budget hearing and the ability to look at the numbers and what they really mean, the transparency that is in this budget is really attributed to all of those folks for the last four months; congratulations on a job well done.” In other business the board approved the Barry Intermediate School District’s general fund budget for 2012-13. Beck said approving the ISD’s general fund budget is a formality that each district is expected to perform each year. “It really doesn’t matter if we approve it or not, they still can go forward with it,” he said. “I wanted to make the statement that we need to work on how we can improve special education funding for students in the district ... There is 57 ISDs, and Barry County’s has the fifth lowest millage rate in the state. We, as a K-12 school, we’re showing, I’m not sure if it was a million or $675,000 of unfunded, by the ISD, special education that the local district pays for that can be paid for by the ISD and it’s something that we need to work with the ISD to get adequate funding for special education while approving the ISD general fund budget is a mere formality, it is difficult to do so when Hastings Area Schools has a negative fund balance and the ISD’s is 20 percent, and BISD reduced its special education funding for Hastings Area Schools by 85 to 87 percent last year. “But, as Kevin said, it really doesn’t matter if we support it or not,” he said. “They are going to go ahead and do what their board says to do.” In other business, the board: • Approved the district’s continued membership in the Michigan High School Athletic Association during the 2012-13 school year. • Amended a motion proposed by the board’s policy committee to approve the new grade point average scale starting with the 2012-13 school year and recalculating last year’s freshmen students’ GPAs using the new scale. The amendment was to start the new GPA calculation scale with this year’s incoming freshmen class (Class of 2016) instead of this year’s sophomore class. The amended proposal was approved unanimously. A letter explaining the new GPA calculation system will be sent to parents before the beginning of the school year. The new system is weighted, so plus and minus grades will have an impact on student GPAs. • Unanimously approved the 2011-12 General Appropriations Act Budget Resolution for the construction, debt and Durrent Funds, as presented as recommended by the board’s finance committee. • Tabled a motion to approve facilities-use agreements with the BISD, Hastings Education Association and Child Care Resources until a later meeting to allow district staff to gather more information about actual costs incurred through use of facilities at the Annex, Hastings Middle School and Star Elementary. • Announced a special meeting of the board at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 27, in the multipurpose room of Hastings Middle School, 232 W. Grand St., during which the board is expected to approve the final amendments to the 2011-12 budget. The board’s annual meeting will begin at 7:30 p.m. Monday, July 23, in the same location. �Page 14 — Thursday, June 21, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Governor signs legislation to get synthetic drugs off streets quickly by David DeDecker Staff Writer Michigan law enforcement and health officials can quickly remove dangerous synthetic drugs from store shelves under legislation signed this week by Gov. Rick Snyder. The law allows the state to swiftly identify and eliminate illegal mind-altering products, no matter what name or form they take, by temporarily categorizing the products as controlled substances. The law also sets forth penalties for breaking the law. The legislation allows the Michigan Department of Community Health director to contact the Michigan Board of Pharmacy if a substance is causing imminent danger. The board would then be required to hold a public hearing within 10 days to determine if the substance should be listed as a controlled substance. The police would be able to stop sales immediately. The board could then give the legislature up to a year, if necessary, to codify its decision into law. “Synthetic drugs continue to be a problem COURT NEWS Edward Lincoln Youngs, 33, of Hastings was sentenced June 14 for home invasion second degree and larceny of a building. Youngs was ordered to serve 12 months in jail, with credit for two days served. He must pay $7,626 in court costs and restitution and serve 36 months on probation. After leaving jail, Youngs must pay $350 a month toward costs and restitution. He must also successfully complete drug court. A charge of safe breaking was dropped. Courtney Marie Morris, of Twin Lake was sentenced June 14 for unauthorized use of computers. Morris, 33, was ordered to serve 15 days in jail, with credit for one day served. Her jail time will be served by wearing a tether. She was ordered to pay $1,198 in assessments and serve 18 months on probation. Morris must pay $100 per month toward assessments. A second charge of unauthorized use of computers was dropped. John Timothy Marshall, 52, of Plainwell was sentenced for operating under the influence of liquor, third offense. Marshall was ordered June 11 to serve 18 to 60 months in jail, with credit for three days served. He must pay $198 is court costs. Charges of operating while intoxicated, third offense, operating with license suspended, second offense, and habitual offender were dropped. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 For Sale National Ads Business Services 20+ CARS UNDER $2,000 plus tax, title & plate fees. Go Go Auto Parts, Delton, (269)623-2775. gogoautoparts.com THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is deceptive, fraudulent or might otherwise violate law or accepted standards of taste. However, this publication does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the quality of goods or services advertised. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made in any advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you ask for money in advance of delivery of goods or services advertised. BOOKKEEPING SERVICES Personal * Self-Employed * Small Business Payroll * Billing Accounts Receivable * Accounts Payable General Ledger Weekly * Monthly * Quarterly * Annually Call today! (269)420-5714 ACHIEVE ENERGY INDEPENDENCE- With a Classic Outdoor Wood Furnace from Central Boiler. 25 year warranty. Call SOS your “Stocking Dealer” Dutton, MI (616)554-8669 or (616)915-5061 AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 CLASS OF 2012 HASTINGS HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION CEREMONY PICTURES ONLINE @ dgpicturethisphotography.com (269)948-4669 FOR SALE: 6 PERSON HOT TUB. New motor, new cover, works great. You can see it run. $1,000.00. Call (517)507-9941. TOTAL WOOD HEAT. Safe, clean, efficient and comfortable Outdoor Wood Furnace from Central Boiler. D-2 Outdoor Wood Boilers. (616)877-4081. Garage Sale MULTI-FAMILY MOVING SALE! Everything under the sun! Housewares, electronics, nice clothes of all sizes and much more! 419 N. Congress Street just off State Road in Taffee Addition. Proceeds to go to missions. Friday-Saturday, June 22nd23rd, 9am-5pm. Estate Sale ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. Card of Thanks CARD OF THANKS The family of Mabel Quigley would like to thank everyone for their prayers, flowers, cards, thoughtfulness and contributions to Love, Inc. at the time of mothers’ passing. We would also like to give a special thank you to Ray & Deb at Girrbach Funeral Home; also the Hastings Moose Lodge for the luncheon served. Thank you to Cathy Peters for the comforting words and service. Thank you, Mabels’ children Rod & Connie McMillian Jack & Ginger Laubaugh Art & Rita Wilson Roger & Kathy Karrar Mark & Joanne Keeler Patricia McQuern Butch Tossava grandchildren & great grandchildren Business Services BASEMENT WATERPROOFING: PROFESSIONAL BASEMENT SERVICES waterproofing, crack repair, mold remediation. Local/licensed. Free estimates. (517)290-5556. Wanted BUYING OLD POCKET watches, old wind up wrist watches, working or not working. Call George (616)916-8271 BUYING WWII, WWI, Civil War uniforms, weapons, helmets, bayonets, German, Japanese, and American. Call George (616)916-8271 Automotive 20+ CARS UNDER $2,000 plus tax, title & plate fees. Go Go Auto Parts, Delton, (269)623-2775. gogoautoparts.com Pets AKC ENGLISH MASTIFF puppies, Born on June 15th, 4 females, 4 males, $1,200. Please call (269)671-4281 Real Estate ACREAGE 70 ACRES rolling, wooded and beautiful. Great location to build custom home or cabin. Great price $280,000. Call Bill Sikkema 269-488-0576, Prudential Preferred, Realtors. that plagues Michigan communities,” said State Sen. Rick Jones. “This poison has been on store shelves for far too long, and it is time everyone realizes the immediate dangers of synthetic drugs. Many people who use synthetic drugs view them as a legal alternative to marijuana and other drugs. However, these drugs are far more toxic and have already taken the lives of Michigan citizens. I urge anyone with children or grandchildren to talk with them about the long term negative consequences and side effects of synthetic drugs.” According to officials, people are experimenting with these dangerous poisons, many of which bear the warning ‘not for human consumption.’ “The possession of Spice and Bath Salts has been illegal since October 2010,” said Barry County Prosecutor Tom Evans of two of the brand-name products. “However, only a few compounds were banned. Clever chemists have found ways around the current law. “Senate Bill 1082 expands the lists and includes analogues, homologues and derivatives, so it will be more inclusive.” Hastings City Police Detective Jeff Pratt said the chemist will always be one step ahead of the law and have other products ready for sale after the previous substance is deemed illegal. In an email to the Banner Pratt wrote, “I have been very outspoken on this topic here in Hastings because it is a major issue in the city. As you know, there are legal and illegal spices and salts. We still see both the legal and illegal substances on the street, and it is a cause for concern. The legal spices and salts are still sold here in the city at gas stations and other shops. The illegal spices and salts can still be ordered over the Internet because the ingredients in the spices and salts are legal in other states. “I am sure you are aware of all of the medical issues that these spices and salts can cause, and this causes people to do things and commit crimes that they normally would not do. On the news the other day I think there was a person who [allegedly] committed a murder and started to eat his victim.” The products may contain a number of synthetic chemicals, including methylmethcathinone or methylenedioxypyrovalerone, strong stimulants that can cause increased heart rate, chest pains, dizziness, delusions, panic attacks, nose bleeding and nausea. Patients ingesting these chemicals can become extremely paranoid and may not respond to usual calming measures. Reportedly, some individuals have been involved in homicides or committed suicide while under the influence, and severe cases may require long-term psychiatric care. “There are rogue chemists who create drugs to get people high for a profit,” said Jones. “Greedy people sell these drugs for a profit and couldn’t care less if people end up in the hospital in critical condition, or die. I hope this legislation will make the process faster, make Michigan a safer place and save taxpayers money by keeping people out of the emergency room.” Help Wanted 25 DRIVER TRAINEES Needed NOW! Become a driver for Schneider National! Earn $750 per week! No experience needed! Local CDL Training! Job ready in 15 days! 1-877-649-2697. Recreation 16’ HOBIE CAT w/trailer, $400 negotiable; 14’ Sidewinder sailboat w/trailer, $100 negotiable. (269)9489271. WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are interested in leasing acreage for this years deer season. Call (269)795-3049 Lawn & Garden AQUATIC PLANTS: OUR Lotus & Water Lilies are ready! Also Koi & Goldfish, pumps, filters & pond supplies. APOLS WATER GARDENS, 9340 Kalamazoo, Caledonia MI. (616)6981030 M-F 9:00-5:30, Sat 9:002:00. PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 Former bus driver sentenced in federal court James Andrew Kohn, 48, was sentenced June 19 in Grand Rapids to 30 years in federal prison for exploitation of a minor. He was accused of photographing his sexual assault of a female under 13 years of age. A possession of child pornography charge was dismissed. The former Hastings school bus driver was sentenced earlier this year to more than 18 years in a state prison by Barry County Circuit Court Judge Amy McDowell. He was found guilty on two first degree criminal sexual assault charges. The state and federal prison terms will be served concurrently. Kohn will be on a fiveyear supervised release after his prison terms conclude. Call anytime for Hastings Banner ads 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 Vehicles collide on M-43 north of city limits A truck belonging to The Irrigator Inc. of Kalamazoo ended up in the east-side ditch along M-43 just north of the Hastings city limits Tuesday afternoon. The contents of the truck’s bed were strewn over the surrounding area. The driver was taken to the hospital and released, according to one source. As of press time, no report was available from the Barry County Sheriff’s Department regarding an accident in front of J-Ad Graphics on M-43 June 19. A minivan sustained damage to its passenger-side rear portion, while the truck ended up in the ditch. An occupant from each vehicle was transported by ambulance for medical evaluation, following the accident. POLICE BEAT Grandmother gets scammed Deputies were contacted June 5 by a 79year-old Battle Creek woman who told them she had been scammed. She said the previous morning she was contacted by a man identifying himself as Sgt. Charles Langdon with the Lima, Peru, police department. He informed the woman her 14-year-old grandson, whom he referred to by name, had been arrested in Peru and was at the U.S. Embassy. The grandson needed to be bailed out, and she was asked to wire $1,725 through Western Union. She talked to someone on the phone who sounded like her grandson. The boy said he was traveling with two other males and was stopped by police for marijuana possession. The elderly woman told deputies she wired the money from a Rite-Aid in Battle Creek and was charged $104 in fees for a total loss of $1,829. She found out later the boy was at home in bed. Deputies advised the woman to request a refund from Western Union, but was told it was unlikely she would receive one. She was also told to contact the Federal Trade Commission and file a report. victim went to the sheriff’s department to get a personal protection order against the man, and to press charges for domestic violence. When deputies contacted the accused he told, deputies he had been babysitting for his ex-girlfriend and said he was never asked to leave. According to the man, the two had started to argue and he was walking down the hallway when the woman came out of the bathroom and pushed him. He told deputies the woman punched him and scratched his face. The man said she continued to claw at him. He denied assaulting the woman and was only defending himself. The case has been turned over to the prosecutor’s office for review. Lakewood prank not funny to everyone A 49-year-old Banfield man turned himself in to deputies June 19 on two bench warrants. The warrants were for aggravated assault and contempt of court. He was taken into custody by deputies and housed without incident. As part of a traditional Lakewood High School senior prank day, seniors blocked off school parking lot entrances with their vehicles May 24 , forcing underclassmen and staff to walk farther. An 18-year-old Clarksville student reportedly was “having a bad day and was sick of the stupid prank.” He told deputies he was driving a truck and pulling a car trailer. He said he wanted to get into the parking lot and pushed a car out of the way with his truck, then drove over the school’s chain link fence to get into the parking lot. Upon investigation, deputies learned the student had pushed one vehicle into another, causing damage. Damage to the victim’s vehicle is estimated at $1,000, and the fence damage is estimated at $500. The student was suspended from school for the remainder of the year. A warrant was being sought for property damage. Hallway encounter has two versions Woman in audience ends up in jail A woman entered the Barry County Sheriff’s Department June 13 to report a domestic assault. Reportedly, she arrived with two small children. She said her exboyfriend, a 33-year-old Nashville man, had entered her Nashville home without her permission and assaulted her. She also said the man had been arrested several times before for assaulting her. The alleged victim told deputies she was giving her children a bath and walked out of the bathroom to find the man standing in her hallway. She told him to get out, and when he didn’t, she threatened to call the police. She said the man then grabbed her by the neck, choking her, and took her to the bedroom and threw her on the bed, still choking her. She believes she blacked out for a while, but continued to tell the man to get out of her house. He finally did leave. She also told deputies she may have scratched the man across his face while defending herself. The A 28-year-old Vermontville woman was arrested June 12 while attending Barry County Probate Court. She was taken into custody on an outstanding Friend of the Court warrant for child neglect. The case is closed. Man turns himself in Trailer takes the long way home An employee from Hastings Grand Rental Station called the sheriff’s department June 13 to report a stolen U-Haul trailer. The caller told deputies the trailer had been dropped off in the business’ parking lot the previous evening. After the man called U-Haul and discovered the stolen trailer was in Massachusetts, he said he needed to make a police report. The trailer will be returned through U-Haul. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 21, 2012 — Page 15 State News Roundup Senior protection bill signed into law Gov. Rick Snyder Tuesday signed a 10-bill package to protect Michigan’s senior citizens and vulnerable adults. The measures encourage the reporting of elder abuse and strengthen penalties for those who are convicted. “The abuse of seniors and vulnerable adults is one of the fastest growing crimes in our state, and law enforcement agencies will now have better tools to help protect potential victims from financial and physical abuses,” Snyder said. The governor called for the legislation’s passage in his special messages on health and wellness and public safety. Sen. Tonya Schuitmaker sponsored Senate Bills 461, 464 and 466 in the package. “This legislation will make an immediate and noticeable positive impact in the lives of seniors and their families,” Schuitmaker said. “Elder abuse is a serious problem that often goes unreported. Our goal is to give senior organizations and law enforcement better tools to combat and prosecute those who are guilty of these deplorable crimes and strengthen the penalties the perpetrators face.” Senate Bill 461 prevents a person from benefiting from the estate of a deceased person if the person who is to receive benefits has been convicted of abuse, neglect or exploitation. SB 464 increases coordination between state and local authorities to expedite abuse investigations. And SB 466 establishes a public notification system for missing seniors, similar to the Amber Alert for missing children, called the Mozelle Senior or Vulnerable Adult Medical Alert Act. DNR warns of prohibited species being sold in stores The Michigan Department of Natural Resources wants to remind consumers and pet traders alike to be aware of prohibited species that could potentially be sold at pet and aquarium stores throughout Michigan. Michigan has a Prohibited and Restricted Species statute which prevents citizens from possessing numerous plant, crustacean, fish, insect, mammal and mollusk species. The list, www.michigan.gov/fishing, includes known invasive species the DNR wants to either prevent from entering and establishing populations in Michigan or limit their further spread throughout the state. Introduction or spread of these species poses risks to native plants and animals, could potentially cause harm to human health, and would be costly, if not impossible, to eradicate or control. DNR employees familiar with prohibited and restricted species have found numerous examples of them being sold in pet and aquarium stores throughout the state. Prohibited and restricted species that have been found in Michigan pet and aquarium stores include the Brazilian elodea plant, a water plant that may be sold for aquarium use, and fish from the snakehead family, a highly invasive fish which has established populations in numerous East Coast states. Any person or business owner in possession of a prohibited or restricted species is recommended to immediately kill or euthanize the specimen before disposing of it in a certified landfill. Any person in possession of live prohibited or restricted species or who has planted them anywhere in Michigan is subject to a civil fine of up to $10,000 and may be subject to property seizure and felony prosecution and penalty. Any person or company selling prohibited or restricted species is subject to a civil fine of up to $20,000 and may be subject to property seizure and felony prosecution and penalty. Anyone with information about the live possession, introduction or sale of prohibited or restricted species in Michigan should call the Report All Poaching hotline, 800-292-7800. More local governments using data to make decisions amid fiscal crisis Just over two-thirds of Michigan's local governments say they use data-driven decision making as they try to cut costs and boost efficiency amid tough economic times, a new University of Michigan survey reports. Local governments collect and analyze a wide range of data on their operations and costs. Examples include emergency response times, comparative employee wages and the amount of trash collected. This information is used to help make better-informed decisions about budgets, policy and management. The survey from U-M's Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy reports that 68 percent of Michigan's local governments say they use data for decision-making in some fashion. Just under one- third (29 percent) said they do not use data in any significant way. The use of performance data is growing, with 36 percent of these local governments reporting that their jurisdictions began using data within the last five years, according to the survey — part of the Michigan Public Policy Survey series by the Ford School's Center for Local, State, and Urban Policy. The report is available online at http://closup.umich.edu. Search starts for state Christmas tree The search for the State of Michigan Christmas tree is underway. The state is now taking nominations for the 2012 Christmas tree that will ultimately sit on the front lawn of the Capitol beginning in November. The Department of Technology, Management and Budget is now searching for just the right tree. DTMB partners with the Michigan Association of Timbermen and the Great Lakes Timber Professionals Association to bring the tree to Lansing. In past years, trees have been found in various locations across the state, including the far reaches of the Upper Peninsula. “We make this as easy as possible for anyone interested in donating” said Phil Jeffery, chief deputy director for DTMB. “We will come on site to cut and remove the tree from the homeowner’s property, so there is no expense for the donator. We accept nominations from any location in Michigan.” The state requires the following in order for the tree to be considered: Must be a spruce or a fir, minimum of 65 feet tall, with a maximum crown of 30 feet and a maximum trunk diameter of 30 inches, allow easy access from a road with no interference from wires and be available at no cost. After delivery of the tree, a DTMB crew will then work with a company in Lansing that volunteers a crane and crew to set the tree. It all culminates with the lighting of the tree in downtown Lansing as part of the Annual Silver Bells in the City celebration. Nominations are requested by July 31. Individuals wishing to nominate a tree are asked to send their name, telephone number, a photograph of the tree and information about its size and location to ChristmasTree@michigan.gov, or by mail to: Holiday Tree Search, Michigan Department of Technology, Management and Budget, Facilities Administration, Building Operations Division, PO Box 30026, Lansing, 48909. RESIGNATIONS, continued from pg. 1 Northeastern Elementary third grade teacher Emily Frith, Northeastern Elementary special education teacher Alisa Gardner, Star Elementary teacher Autumn Hogle, Star Elementary teacher Stephanie JilesHokanson, Southeastern Elementary kindergarten teacher Trisha Kietzman, Southeastern Elementary kindergarten teacher Tricia Mosley, Southeastern Elementary special education teacher Kerry Nickel, Star Elementary first grade teacher Julie Severns, Central Elementary kindergarten teacher Erin Waller; Appointments — CERC front desk attendant Andrea Gleason, Northeastern Elementary fifth grade teacher Dawn James, Star Elementary teacher Matthew Kingshott, varsity girls basketball coach Andrew Mains, Northeastern Elementary kindergarten teacher Lacey Morris, Southeastern Elementary fourth grade teacher Joshua Reynolds, Northeastern Elementary kindergarten teacher Sally Sweet, Central Elementary kindergarten teacher Abby Thelen, CERC early childhood teacher Rachel Valdez, and CERC facilities coordinator Jeff Wilbur. In addition to Martin, Johnston and Sedlar, the board also received notice ofresignation from high school general food service worker II Brenda Denny, district-wide food service director Mary Denny, and bus driver Joseph Fox. Falcon, who earlier this month submitted her own letter of resignation, received her final performance evaluation from the board during Monday’s meeting. Board personnel committee chair Donna Garrison explained that this year’s evaluation process was difficult because of changes in state requirements and because, as interim superintendent after the resignation of former superintendent Rich Satterlee, Falcon had assumed the duties of both the superintendent and assistant superintendent. “On behalf of the board of education, thank you for stepping up in very challenging circumstances to lead our district and for undertaking the task of fulfilling the responsibilities of both the assistant superintendent and the superintendent,” said Garrison in a statement she read during the board meeting. “As we anticipated in the fall, we as a board have struggled with how to fairly evaluate your performance, given the unusual circumstances of your tenure and the changes in evaluation standards for superintendents. We believe that an effective evaluation process is important to professional and personal growth and hope that the information provided helps you to both understand areas where you can improve and also celebrates those areas where you excel. We acknowledge that it is very difficult to know how much impact the time constraints on so much may have impacted your effectiveness in some areas.” Garrison said the state evaluation standards require performance to be rated as ineffective, effective or very effective, and that overall the board deemed Falcon’s performance as effective. “The lowest scores were board relations and community relations,. At times you seemed to struggle with finding ways to communicate consistently and effectively with all board members, meaning information was not received in a timely or consistent manner,” said Garrison. “While you showed great appreciation for the need to involve and share with the community, a lack of visibility at events was still a concern for many. “Your expertise and enthusiasm in curriculum and professional development are an area of great strength, and we cannot over emphasize how much you have brought to our district in this area,” continued Garrison. “Your leadership in school improvement was also an area where you scored highly. “Please accept our heartfelt gratitude for your many hours of work on behalf of our students and our district,” said Garrison. “You have truly made a difference here at Hastings Area Schools.” GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. Trolley Around Town FREE TROLLEY RIDES Ride downtown for dinner, view the new sculptures, shop, get some ice cream, have coffee or drinks, visit the park... Fridays from 6pm to 10pm Now thru August 17 201 S. JEFFERSON ST., HASTINGS (corner of Jefferson & Court St.) 269-945-0100 The City of Hastings will be the venue this summer for the newest Trolley route. Every Friday night, now through August 17, the Trolley will ring through the streets from 6pm to 10pm. Catch it at any of the schools in the city limits, any city park, and other designated stops, or just flag it down on its route. All rides FREE compliments of the local businesses listed here. 269.945.3412 312 E. Court St., Hastings Look to us for all your jewelry, watch and clock repairs. Gilmore Jewelers 102 E. State Street In the Heart of Hastings RESTAURANTE 269-945-9572 945-4403 • 131 South Jefferson, Hastings www.gilmorejewelers.com HOURS: Mon. - Thurs. 11-8; Fri. 11-9; Sat. 11-8:30; Sun. 12-3 Join us on Facebook 1120 West Green, Hastings 945-4174 • Live Music • Outdoor Dining Browse through our site: www.countyseatlounge.com 128 South Jefferson St. Downtown Hastings 269-945-2401 269.948.4042 150 W. Court St., Hastings, MI 49058 Est. 1983 • comfortably, sophisticated ambiance • unique flavor combinations • enviable wine list • signature cocktails • unrivaled coffees 150 W. State St. • Downtown Hastings • 269.948.9222 SeasonalGrille.com Thank you Barry County Transit would like to thank the City of Hastings, and the sponsoring merchants for their help in making this service possible. 77568824 945-3405 404 E. Woodlawn Ave. Hastings, MI 49058 �Page 16 — Thursday, June 21, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Greater good should be part of corporate bottom line by David DeDecker Staff Writer As part of the Hastings Public Library’s fifth year anniversary in its new LEED-certified building, environmental specialist Christina Keller spoke June 7 on the topic of community and economic independence. Keller is the head of Cascade Engineering’s Triple Quest Business Unit, responsible for manufacturing a biosand water filter and helping millions of people obtain safe drinking water. Keller earned her undergraduate degree from Boston College with a major in international development and a minor in environmental studies. She then earned a master’s of business administration degree from Cornell University’s Johnson School of Business with a focus on sustainable global enterprise. Keller also earned certification in international economics from American University. She has studied sustainable development in Costa Rica and international business in Chile. Keller has worked in Washington, D.C., on renewable energy and greenhouse gas emission projects. She also worked in Uganda to help install solar energy panels on schools and hospitals. In Peru, she helped people start small businesses in rural and high-poverty areas. She also serves on the boards of Cascade Renewable Energy Group, the Keller Futures Center, Grand Valley State University Sustainability Advisory Board and Community Sustainability Partnership. “When you really want to help a community or help someone in a developing country, there are three ways you can do that. One is through government, the other is through nonprofits, and the last is through entrepreneurship,” she said in a press release from the library. “Entrepreneurship empowers people at the base of the pyramid. It’s a sustainable way to bring people out of poverty.” Keller began her presentation Thursday with a quote from Chief Seattle, “We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children.” She said the quote, the concept, is what sustainability is all about. Sustainability, she said, is taking care of people, the environment and making a long-term sustainable profit. “It’s not a new concept, and it is felt in the heart of many,” said Keller. “But, the pursuit of money has seemed to distract us from the big picture.” Citing another quote from recent history, Keller said, “Infectious greed seemed to grip much of our business community. The avenues to express greed have grown so enormously.” Keller spoke of the silos in corporations focused just on the bottom-line profit, of shareholders wanting immediate profits, and customers wanting nothing but the lowest prices. She said pressures for quick profits have ethical consequences. A more sustainable model, she said, is for all involved to pull in the same direction, by supporting one another and working toward long-term collective gains. “When you look at the values, the purposes, of each of these individual silos, they are in concert,” she said. “The government is around to try and better the common good. Nonprofits are around to improve people’s lives. Corporations employ people. If we didn’t have corporations, we wouldn’t have the money for governments and nonprofits, and the customers who are using their wages to buy products. So, we are working together. What we need to do is work through this current muddled reality to try to drive towards a sustainable model for the future.” One way to get to sustainability, said Keller, is through people. She shared three stories of people who are innovators and entrepreneurs. The people, she said, are making a positive impact and using a sustainable business model. She began her stories by saying Cascade Engineering was started by her father in 1973 with one tool and two employees. Her dad’s concept was to make a living laboratory to help eradicate poverty. The company now employs more than 1,000 people in 14 business units. According to Keller, the focus has always been to start with something good, which is people and planet, and thirdly profit. Cascade first looks at how to improve people’s lives, then how to improve the planet, and finally how to make the first two into a good business. “It’s a triple bottom line, but I do think intention matters,” said Keller. “When you think about triple bottom line, businesses often say, ‘I will do things good for the earth if it reduces my costs. I will do things for people if it improves my profitably.’ It will typically circle back to a profit-driven metric. I do think you need to start with something good and then make it good business, because when your profitability goes down, you will cut those good things unless you are attached to them as your core. “It is important to remember profitability, because it does make you sustainable and able to make an impact in other places.” During the recent economic slump, Cascade Engineering officials took a look at their numbers and realized they needed to reevaluate or lose about 100 employees. So, the company took the issue to the workers and asked them what to do. What occurred, according to Keller, was employees volunteered to go on furlough, job share and participate in other cost-saving measures. The num- Christina Keller (facing camera) answers audience questions, after her talk on sustainable business practices, as part of the Hastings Public Library’s fifth anniversary celebration. ber of employees involuntarily laid off was reduced drastically. “The company came together, and we kept focused on the people and planet,” she said. “The profitability is something that followed us when we all pulled together.” Cascade Engineering is also a “B” corporation, a new identification, according to Keller, which is a legal designation in some states and a standard similar to ISO standards in other states. The designation stands for Benefit corporation, which is between a forprofit and nonprofit corporation. “The main thing you do differently to become a B corporation is put in your bylaws that you are for the purpose of the stakeholders, not just the shareholders,” she said. “It allows you, as an entity, to look beyond the financial return. By law, corporations need to look out for the financial shareholders. This allows you to look out for general stakeholders in the community and environment. It helps provide a road map for positive impact.” Keller said she is working with other area corporations to create a groundswell of B corporations and a movement toward sustainability in business. Keller then spoke of a woman who heads up a business unit at Cascade Engineering and manages the manufacturing of roll-away trash containers used by homeowners every day. The woman’s mother and grandmother had each died at age 51 from breast cancer. She celebrated her 51st birthday by arranging to have the roll-away carts made in pink to raise awareness of breast cancer. The Pink-cart Campaign now has over 50,000 “likes” on Facebook and is becoming a cancer story and sharing forum. Pink trash carts can now be seen throughout the United States. “It has had a financial impact [for Cascade Engineering] because we have people ask for the pink cart,” said Keller. “Waste haulers now order the entire suite of carts from Cascade because they have so many requests for pink carts. We are getting more [market] traction out west, like in Denver and California, because they want the pink cart.” The second story Keller told was about Cascade’s Welfare to Career program. When people are in poverty, the goal, said Keller, is to empower them. A 2011 Inc. magazine article credited a Cascade Engineering welfareto-work program with saving Michigan $500,000 a year in welfare benefit payments. “Often,” Keller said, “when you have good intentions to help, you are disempowering people. This is something we learned over the years with our Welfare to Career program. The first time we did the program, it failed. The second time, it failed. The third or fourth time is when it finally started having some success — when we realized we needed to embrace empowerment in order for people to have positive impact and everyone be pulling in the same direction. “What we tried to do is employ people out of poverty. What we realized was there were a lot of different issues between intention and success. We can speak about it now because we have a 97 percent retention rate in our program. “On the floor we now have different ways of promoting that are very transparent. That was one of the issues in feedback from the people on welfare.” Keller said many people did not understand why promotions were granted and claimed a promotion was given because of skin color or other perceived issues. She said her company needed to do some deep listening about racial, wealth and poverty issues, and then separate classism from racism issues. “When you have very clear and transparent promotion practices, such as for a Level A practitioner you have to perform this role, and in order to get to the next level, you have to do x, y and z, it becomes very clear what it takes to get to the next level. You get some people who get to the next level, or several levels, very quickly. You have others who stay at the same level for years because they look at what it takes to advance and they don’t want to go there.” Public transportation was the other issue for the Welfare to Career program, she said. Cascade Engineering was outside the bus route, but collaborated with the transit authorities to have regular bus routes from Grand Rapids to its offices. The third issue for the program was emo- tional and mental health issues, so Cascade now has a social worker on staff. The State of Michigan pays for half of the employee’s position. Issues that arise beyond a job issue are referred to the social worker. “It was a key to the success of this program,” she said. “It led to an expansion of the program. We are now looking at a prisoner reentry program. “We have hit a point in the state where we have more money going to incarceration than higher education,” she added. Cascade is working on its application and screening process to help former prisoners find employment. Keller cited an example of an employee who got his first job at Cascade when he was 35 years old. The man had been incarcerated as a teenager and was given the job opportunity at Cascade just out of prison. She said he is passionate about the opportunity Cascade has given him and is a great and loyal employee. He is now a plant manager. Her third story was about the biosand water filter Cascade manufactures. Keller provided staggering statistics about one out of five children worldwide die from diarrheal diseases due to water supply. According to Keller, that is more deaths than AIDS, malaria and measles combined. She said 800 million people worldwide lack access to safe water. Some 3.2 million people die each year from waterborne illness, and 50 percent of hospital beds are filled with people suffering from water-related illnesses. She said most often people will boil water to purify it, but this takes sometimes scarce fuel and produces a large amount of carbon monoxide. Cascade Engineering manufactures 250,000 large biosand water filters per year. Each filter can provide daily water filtration for eight to 10 people, which translates to 2.5 million new people helped every year. Currently 55,000 filters have been distributed worldwide. In the Dominican Republic alone, 9,000 filters and been installed. Keller said Rotary Clubs have been a great help in distributing the filters, as well as the U.S. Navy and many more partners. “We really can have an impact on a global issue, right here in West Michigan,” said Keller. “The water filter is an innovative story about taking the stakeholder into consideration — the broader community, not just West Michigan but the world. We looked at big issues. One of the issues is safe water. Can we solve the problem through innovation and partnership, and then make it a good business? Authentic sustainability drives innovation.” The flathead catfish Elmer Rayner caught in August 1943, pictured here in downtown Hastings, held the state record for nearly 70 years. Readers provide photos of record fish Elmer Rayner likely knew he had a prize when, using a bamboo pole, he hauled in a 47-pound catfish on the Maple River in Ionia County back in August 1943. He probably never imagined that fish would set a state record that would stand for nearly 70 years. The June 7 Banner reported that Rayner’s flathead catfish state record had been broken by Rodney Akey of Niles, who pulled a 49.8pound catfish out of the St. Joseph River in Berrien County May 22. However, J-Ad Graphics staff could find no photo or article on Rayner’s record catch. A ‘Showcasing the DNR’ story that ran in the June 16 Reminder told about another state record fish, a 21-inch perch, that seemed even more elusive after being caught. No photos or articles were found on that fish, either. On a lark, Reminder staff added to that feature a bit about Rayner’s record fish and put out a request for copies of a photo or article, if anyone had any. Monday, Joanne and Roger Mix brought in the photo above, which was taken in downtown Hastings. Joanne said she had been best friends with Yvonne Tift Taylor, whose parents were good friends with Elmer and Pauline Rayner. Many years later, Yvonne’s husband gave the photo to Joanne’s husband. Tuesday, Janet Lord, who was a niece of Pauline Rayner, brought in an older copy of the same photo. On the back, likely written by Pauline, was the following: “47 1/2 lbs. 46” long catfish taken on a 30lb. test gut line and bamboo pole on the Maple River, Ionia Co. “Our 3rd. Wedding anniversary “Same spot He caught the 37 lb. and 7 lb. and I got the 13 lb. on his birthday last fall. “Ration Stretcher” Lord said the Rayners, who had no children, spent much of their free time hunting and fishing. A Sept. 27, 1972, Banner article was accompanied by a photo of the Rayners and black bears they had bagged in Canada. The article said that the 200-pound bruin was the 12th bear for Pauline Rayner, a retired Delton Kellogg Junior High science teacher. Elmer Marlin Rayner served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, being discharged in 1946. He retired from the state highway department in 1970. He was a nine-county maintenance foreman in the nine-county Portage district. Pauline died in 1981. Elmer lived for another 25 years, marrying two more times, according to his obituary. He died in 2006, at the age of 91. His obituary, however, didn’t mention that he still held the state record for the largest flathead catfish, after 63 years. TK dips into savings to balance 2012-13 budget by Julie Makarewicz Staff Writer Thornapple Kellogg Board of Education members approved a 2012-13 budget that uses more than $765,000 from savings to meet expenses. Finance Director Chris Marcy said obviously this is something that cannot continue year after year, but that the funds are available this year to balance the budget. It will mean the district’s fund balance, or savings, will be reduced to $2.6 million or just under 10 percent of one year’s operating costs. Marcy said the district has made considerable progress to eliminate the estimated $2.3 million deficit projected earlier for 2012-13. She said TK is still receiving $350 per student less in base funding than the district received in 2008-09. Public education has suffered a $1 billion reduction in statewide kindergarten through 12th grade education overall last year, she said. Revenues for 2012-13 are expected to reach $25.7 million with expenses of $26.46 million. Marcy said the budget is based on some assumptions from the state, but said she feels comfortable with the numbers used. She said she anticipates the district will receive $6,966 per student and will be able to meet seven of eight best practices outlined by the state to qualify for an additional $53 per student. This year, the district was given $100 more per student for meeting at least four of five state best practices. Some of the cost-saving measures implemented by the district include reducing support staff through attrition, not replacing the assistant superintendent, making administrative changes and some savings in technology personnel. The district will provide all-day, everyday kindergarten which increases costs by $400,000. If the district did not implement the program, school officials said the district faced losing more than $600,000 in state funding. The board also approved the food service and library funds. The food service fund is in good shape, Marcy said, with revenues expected to outpace expenses this year. Revenues are anticipated at $1.11 million with expenses of $1.10 million, leaving a positive ending balance of about $12,680. That will help boost the food service fund balance to $87,998. The district has continued to keep costs down by sharing a food service director with Delton Kellogg Schools. Board members also approved the library budget. The public library is part of the Lakeland Cooperative, and decreased available funds will mean reduced hours and staffing for the library. Revenues for the library are projected at $37,223 with expenses at $40,355, leaving a deficit of $3,132. The library has funds available to spend out of savings to cover this year’s deficit, but it will mean reducing its fund balance to $361. “We are discussing ways to make changes and keep the library open as much as possible,” said Marcy. “We’re still talking and hoping to come up with some creative solutions. No definite changes have been announced yet. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 21, 2012 — Page 17 Heat sizzles for cyclists in 30th annual N24HC One-third of all the registrants, and both overall high mileage winners, were first-time riders at the 30th Annual National 24-Hour Challenge (N24HC) June 16-17. They found that the name “Challenge” was no idle claim. The annual bicycle competition, based in Middleville, celebrated its 30th year Father’s Day weekend, as 311 bicyclists gathered from all over the United States and Canada to take on the weather in Barry County. An unusual 46 riders retired before completing the initial 121.6-mile loop in the face of 90-degree heat, high humidity and breezes. The evening hours were cool and pleasant, but rain and wind gusts blew in at 3 a.m. Weather watchers were relieved to see lightning pass at a distance. Maria Parker, 49, of Lumberton NC, won female overall high mileage with a ride of 407.9 miles, the first ever female recumbent entry. It was the second year in a row that recumbent riders took one of the Siegel Jewelers silver bowls awarded to the overall men’s and women’s champions. In January, Parker set a new record of 474.5 miles at the Bike Sebring 12/24 Hours race in Sebring, Fla. She had her sights set on breaking the record of 502.6 miles, set by Chris Ragsdale in 2007, at the National 24-Hour Challenge, but the weather did not cooperate with a run at that record. Collin Johnson, 27, of Ann Arbor, won male overall high mileage with a a ride of 472.6 miles. Younger riders were amazed as Don Stowers, 75, of Grayling MI rode 311.5 miles in his 11th year at the Challenge. Father and son Duane and Druvis Gerrits of Middleville posted a combined 380.6 miles. Michael O’Donnell of Hastings battled an injury to take part in his 28th National 24Hour Challenge event. He rode 11.5 miles as a part of the 65-59 male group. This year, N24HC is part of the Heartland Triple Crown series. Riders who posted miles at Calvin’s Challenge in Springfield, Ohio in May, the National 24-Hour Challenge and at the UltraMidwest at Port Byron Ill. on Labor Day weekend will be eligible for male and female overall high mileage awards. There are 41 riders are currently in the running. Johnson leads the men with a combined 714.6 miles and Pascale Lercangee, of Powell, Ohio, leads the women with a combined 540.2 miles. This year’s N24HC course took riders from the Thornapple Kellogg Middle School, where there was an 8 a.m. start, east through downtown Middleville. They continued winding east to their first check point, at the Lakewood Middle School. From there, the race turned south to check point number two at Baseline United Methodist Church in Battle Creek. Riders who were able to continued to battle the heat as they headed west for check point number three at the Delton Library. Riders then finally headed back north, to the Thornapple Kellogg Middle School to complete the first 121.6 mile loop sometime Saturday afternoon. Those who chose to continue on took a 23.7 mile loop through Middleville and the Yankee Springs area, ten finished with as many 7.5 mile loops as they could complete around the west side of Middleville - Bender Road south to Adams Road, west to Cherry Valley Road, then north to Finkbeiner Road, where they’d turn south again on Bender Road. National 24-Hour Challenge Results 2012 Overall Rank, Rider, City, State (Province), Nationality, Miles. Anthony Nelson, White House, TN, US, 205.3. 73, Eric Nelson, Grandville, MI, US, 205.3. 79, Druvis Gerrits, Middleville, MI, US, 190.3. 87, Kenny R Hull, Kentwood, MI, US, 152.8. 90, Jeffery Walters II, Logansport, IN, US, 121.6. 90, Subhodeep Moitra, Pittsburgh, PA, US, 121.6. 97, Joshua Pritchard, Cattaraugus, NY, US, 71.5. Males 25-29 -- 1, Collin Johnson, Ann Arbor, MI, US, 472.6. 14, Lee Bunker, Battle Creek, MI, US, 366.4. 16, Kevin Anderson, Schoolcraft, MI, US, 360.2. 47, Keith Cox, Sun Prarie, WI, US, 274 73, Anirudh Koul, Pittsburgh, PA, US, 205.3. 73, Cameron Kile, Franktown, CO, US, 205.3. 74, Deric Skinner, Lakewood, CO, US, 203.5. 75, Matt E Meyer, Grand Haven, MI, US, 202.6. 86, Kurtis D Nichols, Racine, WI, US, 160.3. 88, David Boerman, Grand Rapids, MI, US, 145.3. 97, Andrew Ray, Keego Harbor, MI, US, 71.5. 97, Kevin Packard, Kalamazoo, MI, US, 71.5. 97, Max Langensiepen, Ypsilanti, MI, US, 71.5. 101, Trevor Jarvis, Wyoming, MI, US, 47 103, Paul Hulford, Grand Rapids, MI, US, 21.2. Males 30-34 -- 5, Keegan Greene, Indianapolis, IN, US, 403.9. 34, Bryan J Hollingsworth, Somerville, MA, US, 312.7. 50, Patrick Aderhold, East Lansing, MI, US, 265.3. 57, Jason Bailey, Holland, MI, US, 250.3. 73, Matt R Nicholson, Seymour, IN, US, 205.3. 75, Eugene Daniels, Grand Haven, MI, US, 202.6. 81, Ian Redfern, Troy, MI, US, 182.8. 88, Ryan Weston, Chicago, IL, US, 145.3. 94, Jason Minier, Belding, MI, US, 85. Males 35-39 -- 34, Nathan Brooks, Barrie, ON, CAN, 312.7. 43, Chad Lahey, Grand Haven, MI, US, 282.7. 45, Christopher De Graaf, Holland, MI, US, 280.3. 55, David Kasdan, Waterford, MI, US, 251.5. 62, Carl Ylinen, Grand Haven, MI, US, 229. 71, Matthew J Peterson, Gaylord, MI, US, 212.8. 72, Alex J Klein, Lafayette, CO, US, 206.5. 72, Mark Lyons, Lansing, MI, US, 206.5. 73, Gregory Madden, West Des Moines, IA, US, 205.3. 73, Matthew S Miles, Cadillac, MI, US, 205.3. 77, Jason Bratton, Ada, MI, US, 197.8. 81, Brian W Updike, Grand Rapids, MI, US, 182.8. 83, Shawn Chadwick, Hastings, MI, US, 175.3. 90, Kevin Owens, Dover, OH, US, 121.6. 90, Shawn R Adamski, Berkley, MI, US, 121.6. 90, Mike S Mills, Lowell, MI, US, 121.6. 90, Daniel Cole, Kalamazoo, MI, US, 121.6. 97, Daniel Jacob, Hamilton, OH, US, 71.5. 92, Weston Newman, Byron Center, MI, US, 96.2. 97, Chad Geiger, Cadillac, MI, US, 71.5. Males 40-44 -- 17, Robert D Hayley, Taylor, MI, US, 358.9. 19, Chris Brown, Washington, IN, US, 351.4. 22, Brian C Baker, Sparta, MI, US, 341.5. 29, James Samlow, Fruitport, MI, US, 327.7. 31, Robert D Holb, Henderson, CO, US, 320.2. 41, David B Ringey, Beverly Hills, MI, US, 289. 55, Paul Stevens, Portage, MI, US, 251.5. 55, Dean Demetropoulos, Royal Oak, MI, US, 251.5. 55, Allen W Murphy, Clio, MI, US, 251.5. 58, Mark S Alexander, Swartz Creek, MI, US, 244 63, Jon Koenig, Omaha, Ne, US, 227.8. 70, Jeff S Schmela, Wheaton, IL, US, 214. 73, Douglas Campbell, Kentwood, MI, US, 206.3. 73, Jeff M Peterson, Kentwood, MI, US, 205.3. 73, Dave Sunshine, Westfield, IN, US, 205.3. 73, Brian Fitzgerald, Seymour, IN, US, 205.3. 76, J Andrew Clayton, Lebanon, OH, US, 199. 79, Craig Jones, Seymour, IN, US, 190.3. 86, Scott M Kramer, Greenville, MI, US, 160.3. 88, Mark Sclater, Dover, OH, US, 145.3. 90, Michael Baker, Washington, IN, US, 121.6. 92, Ross L Jr Hull, Kentwood, MI, US, 96.2. 95, Tim Glover, Big Rapids, MI, US, 84.5. 97, Matthew Wardwell, Holt, MI, US, 71.5. Males 45-49 -- 3, Jeffrey D Rhodes, Saugatuck, MI, US, 411.4. 5, Robert M Schaller, Peoria, IL, US, 403.9. 20, Rusty Yeager, Evansville, IN, US, 350.2. 25, Mark A Harrison, Naperville, IL, US, 336.4. 28, Wes Lenig, Plymouth, IN, US, 334. 32, Steve Pupel, Comstock Park, MI, US, 319. 33, Steve J Kramer, Chicago, IL, US, 317.7. 35, Chris P Gonnsen, Grand Blanc, MI, US, 311.5. 35, Michael A Billing, Wheaton, IL, US, 311.5. 36, Eric Bassler, Washington D.C., US, 305.2. 36, Mark Ireland, Westfield, IN, US, 305.2. 37, John Lupina, Holt, MI, US, 304. 37, Rainard M Beer, Strongsville, OH, US, 304. 38, Michael Burden, Kentwood, MI, US, 302.8. 38, Brian Leonhart, Rockledge, FL, US, 302.8. 44, Gary Church, Fruitport, MI, US, 281.5. 51, James F Kubiak, Ludington, MI, US, 262. 52, Mikael P Henriksson, Hastings, MI, US, 260.2. 54, Joe Hannon, Muskegon, MI, US, 257.8. 57, Terry L Butcher, Kalamazoo, MI, US, 250.3. 62, John Gadbury, Waterford, WI, US, 229. 64, Troy Carr, Grand Rapids, MI, US, 226. 67, Martin J Waalkes, Ada, MI, US, 221.5. 68, Wayne Gallapoo, Seymour, IN, US, 220.3. 68, Robert A Nesky, Troy, MI, US, 220.3. 69, Scott D Luikart, New Philadelphia, OH, US, 216.4. 71, Wayne W Vandenbergh, Sun Prarie, WI, US, 212.8. 72, John J Hopkins, Hastings, MI, US, 206.5. 73, David Atkins, Lakeview, MI, US, 206.3. 73, Shannon L Pike, Portland, MI, US, 205.3. 73, Mark A Williams, Beverly Hills, MI, US, 205.3. 73, Tom Stubby, Omaha, Ne, US, 205.3. 73, Ken P De Graaf, Hudsonville, MI, US, 205.3. 77, Peter Jochimsen, Minneapolis, Mn, US, 197.8. 81, Tedmund Tiberi, Wheaton, IL, US, 182.8. 82, John Cook, Fishers, IN, US, 176.5. 84, James W Recob, Granger, IN, US, 169. 85, Jeff Rothley, Flint, MI, US, 167.8. 85, John Willette, Cedar Springs, MI, US, 167.8. 85, David Barstis, Niles, MI, US, 167.8. 89, Michael P Labadie, Byron Center, MI, US, 127.6. 90, Douglas H Hoffman, Woodstock, NY, US, 121.6. 90, Raymond Haehnel, Stickney, IL, US, 121.6. 90, Keith Wild, Washington, IN, US, 121.6. 91, Gary Klusty, Blacklick, OH, US, 111.2. 97, Mark Weidner, Midland, MI, US, 71.5. 97, Robert Cox, Kalamazoo, MI, US, 71.5. 102, Ron Behl, Okemos, MI, US, 34.4. 102, A Blake Dolinger, Hamilton, MI, US, 34.4. Males 50-54 -- 7, Ronald A Schuitema, Middleville, MI, US, 77568774 396.4. 8, Jeffrey Mason, Washington, IN, US, 388.9. 10, Terry Arnold, Clover, SC, US, 380.2. 11, Kenneth A Kloet, Grand Rapids, MI, US, 373.9. 15, Jef A Mallett, Grand Rapids, MI, US, 365.2. 15, Robert G Core, Bellefontaine, OH, US, 365.2. 15, Richard Kordenbrock, Cincinnati, OH, US, 365.2. 18, Otto Jr Weyer, Garden City, MI, US, 357.7. 27, Dan L Kloet, Grand Rapids, MI, US, 335.2. 27, Dennis L Thome, Birmingham, MI, US, 335.2. 34, Matt Mckeon, Fairfax Stations, Va, US, 312.7. 35, Jeff Salow, Manchester, IA, US, 311.5. 35, Jonathan B Weis, Marlborough, NH, US, 311.5. 37, William H Smith, Frederick, MD, US, 304. 37, Jeff Stephens, Worthington, OH, US, 304. 38, Bob W Parsons, St Louis, MI, US, 302.8. 45, Bill Cound, Oswego, IL, US, 280.3. 49, Jim Supple, Holland, MI, US, 266.5. 49, Kevin Mcwilliams, Muskegon, MI, US, 266.5. 54, Terry Krall, Carmel, IN, US, 257.8. 54, Jeff Nelson, Grandville, MI, US, 257.8. 57, Randy Higgins, Wyoming, MI, US, 250.3. 57, Martin Burg, Hudsonville, MI, US, 250.3. 58, Dave Hammer, Urbandale, IA, US, 244. 58, Rick Cosaro, Naperville, IL, US, 244. 59, Scott E Davis, Lafayette, IN, US, 237.7. 66, Randy Hottinger, Noblesville, IN, US, 223.5. 68, Jeff Walters Sr, Logansport, IN, US, 220.3. 70, Jerome R Valco, Fairview Park, OH, US, 214. 71, David Danek, Troy, MI, US, 212.8. 72, Gary Ivinskas, Hastings, MI, US, 206.5. 73, Andrew D Hollingsworth, Princeton, Nj, US, 205.3. 73, Mark Seaburg, See 24 HOUR CHALLENGE, pg. 18 77568777 Males 18-24 -- 23, Patrick Mcgettigan, Norton Shores, MI, US, 339.8. 39, Warren Schuitema, Shelby, MI, US, 297.7. 61, Ian Cowhey, Saint Louis, MO, US, 232.6. 73, Michael O’Donnell (left), of Hastings, talks things over with volunteer Michael Gormley following his National 24-Hour Challenge ride Saturday. O’Donnell was participating in his 28th National 24-Hour Challenge event. (Photo by Patricia Johns) Blair Miller of Vermontville accepts his 1,000 mile jersey from National 24-Hour Challenge co-organizer Kathy Steve in the Thornapple Kellogg Middle School Sunday. (Photo by Patricia Johns) 77568783 National 24-Hour Challenge overall high mileage winners Maria Parker (left) and Collin Johnson (right) are presented their silver bowls by C.J. DeVries of Siegel Jewelers inside the Thornapple Kellogg Middle School Sunday. 77568780 77568771 �Page 18 — Thursday, June 21, 2012 — The Hastings Banner 24 HOUR CHALLENGE, continued from page 17 Thornapple Kellogg Middle School is transformed into tent city for cyclists. More than 350 cyclists from all over the United States and Canada participated in this year’s 30th anniversary event. (Photo by Julie Makarewicz) Hopkins, Mn, US, 205.3. 76, Richard Diermeier, Onalaska, WI, US, 199. 76, Michael E Robinson, Gainesville, Fl, US, 199. 78, Melvin B Siebert, Magnolia, OH, US, 192.7. 79, Duane A. Gerrits, Middleville, MI, US, 190.3. 80, Craig M Rohrer, Milford, MI, US, 184. 84, Eric Overton, Berea, OH, US, 169. 86, Scott Boerman, Hamilton, MI, US, 160.3. 87, Peter Weis, Montague, MA, US, 152.8. 88, Wayne T Curtis, Nashville, MI, US, 145.3. 88, Rick Pearce, Coopersville, MI, US, 145.3. 90, Tim Kilmartin, Kalamazoo, MI, US, 121.6. 90, Rudy Pederson, Ft Wayne, IN, US, 121.6. 90, Randy L Jacobs, Kentwood, MI, US, 121.6. 90, Ralph R Germaine, Toronto, ON, CAN, 121.6. 97, Paul A Borowski Ii, Massillon, OH, US, 71.5. 97, Douglas Sanderson, Sturgis, MI, US, 71.5. 97, Michael Watson, Portage, MI, US, 71.5. 98, Tom Farris, Indianapolis, IN, US, 62.9. Males 55-59 -- 2, David L Meridith, Downers Grove, IL, US, 418.9. 3, Keith Wolcott, Charleston, IL, US, 411.4. 5, P Ostman, Fond Du Lac, WI, US, 403.9. 13, Thomas J Murphy, Hinsdale, IL, US, 370.4. 14, Glenn A Dik, Grand Rapids, MI, US, 366.4. 20, George C Ammerman, Evanston, IL, US, 350.2. 21, Peter R Newbury, Clarkston, MI, US, 342.7. 24, Gary C Berk, Ludington, MI, US, 337. 30, Dieter Dauberman, Jackson, MI, US, 326.5. 30, Gary John Michalek, Northville, MI, US, 326.5. 31, Gary J Trap, Grand Rapids, MI, US, 320.2. 34, Christopher M Coburn, Shaker Hts, OH, US, 312.7. 35, Marc A Pritchard, Cattaraugus, NY, US, 311.5. 37, Laike Misikir, Ann Arbor, MI, US, 304. 44, George Raimer, Saranac, MI, US, 281.5. 44, Ken J Cyclists cross the bridge in downtown Middleville early Saturday morning. (Photo by Julie Makarewicz) Kooistra, Byron Center, MI, US, 281.5. 48, John Klinger, Grand Haven, MI, US, 268.9. 53, Tom D Lais, Maplewood, Mn, US, 259. 54, Robert Head, Evansville, IN, US, 257.8. 58, Jim Hoppenrath, Flushing, MI, US, 244. 62, Tim G Meyer, Grand Haven, MI, US, 229. 66, Steve Johns, Carmel, IN, US, 223.5. 68, Rick C Bainter, Elkhart, IN, US, 220.3. 72, Kenneth N Lehto, Royal Oak, MI, US, 206.5. 73, Paul A Bacho, Aurora, OH, US, 205.3. 73, George Larson, Marquette, MI, US, 205.3. 73, Ron Erdely, Brownsburg, IN, US, 205.3. 77, Blair Hall, Bloomington, IL, US, 197.8. 80, Ron Scott, Wyoming, MI, US, 184. 83, Terrance Miles, Hastings, MI, US, 175.3. 83, Russ L Aubil, Wayland, MI, US, 175.3. 85, Daryl Kunz, Deerfield, IL, US, 167.8. 86, Mark A Jensen, Augusta, MI, US, 160.3. 87, Cyclists listen to the National Anthems of the United States and Canada at the start of the challenge. (Photo by Julie Makarewicz) Thornapple Kellogg Middle School sign welcomes cyclists. Bagpipe Band from Kalamazoo play at the challenge start and downtown Middleville to cheer on cyclists during the start of the race. (Photo by Julie Makarewicz) Dennis E Jeffers, Gaines, MI, US, 152.8. 88, Blair Miller, Vermontville, MI, US, 145.3. 90, Stephen Head, Indianapolis, IN, US, 121.6. 97, Rich Blakeman, Aurora, CO, US, 71.5. 97, Bruce Hill, Villa Park, IL, US, 71.5. 97, Thomas E Black, Cleveland, OH, US, 71.5. 97, Fred Nelson, Cedar Springs, MI, US, 71.5. Males 60-64 -- 3, Charles J Knott, Magnolia, OH, US, 411.4. 5, Virgil E Moehsmer, St Louis, MO, US, 403.9. 26, Gary Schuitema, Tucson, AZ, US, 335.2. 31, James Hack, Essexville, MI, US, 320.2. 37, David J Geerlings, Holland, MI, US, 304. 37, Michael Martin, Louisville, KY, US, 304. 55, Mike Santoski, Grand Rapids, MI, US, 251.5. 65, Paul G Spruit, Walker, MI, US, 224.2. 71, Daniel J Updike, Greenville, MI, US, 212.8. 84, Fredrick S Whaley, Portage, MI, US, 169. 88, David Westerholm, Lombard, IL, US, 145.3. 92, Jim Siegel, Grand Rapids, MI, US, 96.2. 96, John H Clay, Lakewood, OH, US, 83.4. 97, Ernest Newman, Ionia, MI, US, 71.5. 97, Kenneth Sheckell, Redford, MI, US, 71.5. 97, Fred R Baldwin, Cato, NY, US, 71.5. 97, Steven J Wistie, Brockway, MI, US, 71.5. Males 65-69 -- 20, Gerald Huntley, Grass Lake, MI, US, 350.2. 29, Robert Flanders, West Olive, MI, US, 327.7. 34, Thomas W Stewart, Des Plains, IL, US, 312.7. 42, Daniel J Haraburda, Middleville, MI, US, 287.8. 54, William S Skinner, Grand Rapids, MI, US, 257.8. 87, William G Rizek, Chicago, IL, US, 152.8. 87, Terry J Vander Kolk, Spring Hill, TN, US, 152.8. 92, Wendell J Hyink, Niles, MI, US, 96.2. 97, John J Koza, Grant, MI, US, 71.5. 97, Kevin D Magin, North Muskegon, MI, US, 71.5. 104, Michael H O’Donnell, Hastings, MI, US, 11.5. Males 70-74 -- 9, James G Hlavka, Racine, WI, US, 381.4. 21, Kenneth T Scott, Muskegon, MI, US, 342.7. 45, William F Ingraham, Scituate, MA, US, 280.3. 97, Richard A Carlsen, Traverse City, MI, US, 71.5. 97, James F Ingles, Farmington Hills, MI, US, 71.5. 97, Algie W Murphy, Gaines, MI, US, 71.5. Males 75+ -- 35, Don R. Stowers, Grayling, MI, US, 311.5. 97, Howard A Davis, Concord, OH, US, 71.5. Females 25-29 -- 34, Janet H Hollingsworth, Henderson, CO, US, 312.7. 62, Colleen Anne Myers, Grand Rapids, MI, US, 229. 97, Tracy Berman, Ann Arbor, MI, US, 71.5. Females 30-34 -- 86, Laura A Skinner, Grand Rapids, MI, US, 160.3. 100, Sarah A Micklatcher, Hastings, MI, US, 54.7. Females 35-39 -- 12, Amy R Miller, Holland, MI, US, 372.7. 17, Erica Weitzman, Traverse City, MI, US, 358.9. 37, Alison Murphy, Woodridge, IL, US, 304. 42, Carla Murphy, Clio, MI, US, 287.8. 73, Tammy M Weyer-Bauer, Garden City, MI, US, 205.3. 73, Kelly Davis, Carbondale, IL, US, 205.3. 73, Erin Stefanczak, Walled Lake, MI, US, 205.3. 73, Christina Peek, Freesoil, MI, US, 205.3. 87, Maria Spedoske, Stanwood, MI, US, 152.8. 87, Stephanie Palmer, Walled Lake, MI, US, 152.8. Females 40-44 -- 37, Lori Gomez, Fruitport, MI, US, 304. 49, Renee Bourque, Dundas, ON, CAN, 266.5. 60, Vikki M Rohrer, Milford, MI, US, 236.5. 68, Susanne Aldridge, Grandville, MI, US, 220.3. 73, Cindy Watkins, Stow, OH, US, 205.3. 86, Tania Brammer, Kalamazoo, MI, US, 160.3. Females 45-49 -- 36, Pascale Lercangee, Powell, OH, US, 305.2. 45, Janet L Mc Gettigan, Muskegon, MI, US, 280.3. 70, Karen Soderlind, Park Ridge, IL, US, 214. 71, Lou L Therrien, Livonia, MI, US, 212.8. 83, Toni Barstis, Niles, MI, US, 175.3. 99, Caryn L Bracy, Indianapolis, IN, US, 58.8. Females 50-54 -- 40, Dessa Paris, Saint Louis, MO, US, 290.2. 46, Annette G Weingate, Byron Center, MI, US, 274.8. 54, Debra D Stein, Cattaraugus, NY, US, 257.8. 54, Nancy M Henriksson, Hastings, MI, US, 257.8. 70, Carol Hollingsworth, Princeton, NJ, US, 214. Females 55-59 -- 37, Nancy A Lange, Wyoming, MI, US, 304 56, Janice Bent, Rochester, NY, US, 251 57, Sarah A Weis, Montague, MA, US, 250.3. 71, Diane Weiss, Detroit, MI, US, 212.8. 90, Mary Kay Germaine, Toronto, ON, CAN, 121.6. Recumbent Female -- 4, Maria Parker, Lumberton, NC, US, 407.9. Recumbent Male -- 6, James Parker, Lumberton, NC, US, 397.6. 30, Kenneth Lanteigne, Columbus, IN, US, 326.5. 55, Geoff Madden, Plymouth, MI, US, 251.5. 62, Robert Palmer, Walled Lake, MI, US, 229. 73, David H Towns, Belvidere, IL, US, 205.3. 84, Jim Verheul, Westlake Village, CA, US, 169. 93, Bill A Schwarz, Kinderhook, NY, US, 92.8. Recumbent Tandem -- 102, David R Buck, Traverse City, MI, US, 34.4. 102, Brian D Buck, Grand Rapids, MI, US, 34.4. Tandem Male/Female -- 19, Jennifer L Bixby, Lansing, MI, US, 351.4. 19, Paul Danhaus, Wausau, WI, US, 351.4. 44, John C Hart, Mattawan, MI, US, 281.5. 44, Karen K Iseminger, Westfield, IN, US, 281.5. 44, Mark K Bettinger, Westfield, IN, US, 281.5. 44, Barb C Hart, Mattawan, MI, US, 281.5. 73, Gloria J Wilson, Belleville, MI, US, 205.3. 73, Jeff A Kleckner, Commerce Township, MI, US, 205.3. Tandem Male/Male -- 54, Brian Rummelhart, Kenosha, WI, US, 257.8. 54, Jeff Johnson, Kenosha, WI, US, 257.8. Bike signs dotted the Barry County landscape. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 21, 2012 — Page 19 HHS grad named assistant at Wingate U. nicated the college community. “Dustin Terrel has been successful at every stop in his coaching career,” Hancock says. “He did a fantastic job at Myers Park. I believe his contacts and connections in the Charlotte area, as well as across the country, will be an asset to the Bulldog basketball program.” Terrel earned a B.S. degree in Education from Western Michigan University in 2006. He received a M.A. degree in Education from Montreat College in 2011. ANIMAL CONTROL, continued from page 1 Hastings YMCA Karate Club announces promotions The Hastings Karate Club, a YMCA program, has announced the advancement of students in the American Pukang Tang Soo Do Karate System. The following students all promoted to the next level; (front from left) Teaera Johnson, 5th kup green, Heidi Kolp, 7th kup white, Mr. Timothy Ray (double promotion) 6th kup yellow, Micheal Davis, 5th kup green, (back) Caleb Johnson, 2nd kup blue, and Nolan Johnson, 3rd kup blue. The Hastings Karate Club also had three students test on an alternate night who are not pictured, Sean Green, 7th kup white, Ellena Keener, 7th kup white and Cassidy Rosser was promoted to 7th kup white. For more information on Karate lessons go to the ymcaofbarrycounty.org website. Olympic gold medalist coming to wrestling camp next week at LHS Youth and high school wrestlers will get the chance to meet and learn from an Olympic gold medalist at this summer’s Lakewood Wrestling Camp. John Peterson won the gold medal in freestyle wrestling at 82 kg at the 1976 Olympic Games in Montreal, after winning the silver in 1972 in Munich. His brother, Ben, took the gold in 1972 at 90 kg, and was the sliver medalist in 1976. “We’re just excited,” said Lakewood varsity wrestling coach Bob Veitch. “We’ve never had an Olympic gold medalist here. He’ll talk to the kids a little about his beliefs and what it takes to be a champion.” The camp will be held June 25-27 at Lakewood High School. The cost to participate is $10 for individuals. Many teams have already signed up for camp as well. “We have wrestling moves we call Petersons,” Veitch said. “He probably still has the best double leg (take down) in the world.” Larsen hits hole-in-one at Crystal Mountain On an otherwise quiet Monday June 11 in northern Michigan, Tim Larsen selected his 9-iron, looked at the pin. He was on the 7th hole of the Betsie Valley golf course at Crystal Mountain, and what happened next is something Larsen had been dreaming about for 30 years. He hit the ball – it felt good, it looked good … and it went in. From 127 yards out, Tim Larsen sunk his first hole-in-one. Justin Pratt was there to congratulate Larsen, along with Scott and Matt Larsen. Now, the Vice President of Operations at FlexFab in Hastings will be introduced forever more as, “Tim Larsen. He got a hole-in-one at Crystal Mountain.” Dustin Terrel, a 2001 graduate of Hastings High School, has been named an assistant women’s basketball coach at Wingate University in Wingate, NC. Wingate University vice-president and director of athletics Steve Poston and head women’s basketball coach Ann Hancock announce the hiring last week. Terrel begins his new responsibilities July 1. Most recently, Terrel spent one season as the head women’s basketball coach at Myers Park High School in Charlotte. He led the largest 4A school in North Carolina to a 31-1 overall and a treasure trove of honors. The Southwest Conference regular season and tournament champion Mustangs advanced to the 4A Western Regional championship game (state semifinal). For his efforts, Terrel was named Charlotte Observer, SW4A and NCBCA District VIII Coach of the Year. Terrel also taught health and physical education at the Charlotte school. Prior to joining the MPHS staff, Terrel was the assistant men’s basketball coach at Belmont Abbey College. He spent two seasons as the head women’s basketball coach at Olympic High School (Charlotte), earning MEGA7 Conference Coach of the Year laurels in 2010. “Wingate is extremely fortunate to have Dustin as a member of the coaching staff,” Hancock said. “I feel he is a rising star among young coaches. His passion, enthusiasm and energy are evident in everything he does.” Terrel will assist in all aspects of the Wingate program. He has AAU coaching experience with the Carolina Rise organization. Terrel was the U-16 head girls’ coach and the U-13 head boys’ coach in 2009. During his time at Belmont Abbey, he served as video coordinator and gained knowledge of NCAA compliance policies. Terrel monitored academics, generated and implemented practice, game and travel schedules and commu- Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads Thornapple Township officials urge ban on fracking Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf outlines the scope of responsibilities in Animal Control efforts conducted by his department. ing that cost to these animal lovers here,” said Jacobs. “Give the budget to the Animal Advisory Board and let them micromanage this — these are the people who care about animals. “We don’t have to copy someone else,” said Jacobs, referring to the four models presented by Brown; “let’s do our own because any animal that gets put down is one too many.” The county’s euthanasia rate is one area in which Leaf’s critics are most vocal and, for his part, Leaf used statewide statistics in his presentation on Tuesday to cite that Barry County’s rate is typical but, perhaps, even better than that of many counties that report a higher intake of animals because they count all animals brought to Animal Control, even those that need to be euthanized for health reasons or have already been fatally injured. He also reiterated long-expressed concerns about overcrowding at the shelter due to an excess of animal arrivals. “Last weekend we got inundated,” Leaf pointed out in his prepared remarks and in statements made following the meeting. “From Friday evening to Monday morning, we had 46 dogs and cats brought in. Then, on Monday, we received 16 or 17 more cats.” Animal supporters, however, charge that Leaf will not accept their efforts to assist with such situations through adoption efforts. “We feel we should have something to say about adoptions,” said Mary Fisher, chair of the Barry County Humane Society and leader of the group that several years ago raised $150,000 to help build the new animal shelter. “The sheriff has gone on record as saying he’d ‘like to get out of the adoption business’ and we can’t work with that kind of an attitude. “You need to think about hiring a director to oversee everybody in Animal Control and adoption,” Fisher told commissioners. “Have the sheriff do the cops-and-robbers thing. It’s a huge time commitment for the sheriff to be involved in Animal Control.” In other business, commissioners approved making the following recommendations at the June 26 board meeting: • Approval of a plan and application update for the Office of Community’s Alternative Corrections to be eligible for the second year of funding under a three-year contract. • Approval of a bid for $31,680 from Fox Building Services for rehabilitation of a house at 1311 S. Hanover St. in Hastings under the county’s Homebuyer Purchase Rehabilitation program. • Approval of a Farmland and Open Space Preservation Program request from Steven and Carol Price for property located in Woodland Township. • Approval of Robert Vanderboegh to serve on the Barry County Building Authority for a three-year term. • Approval of Mary Fisher to serve a twoyear citizen-at-large position on the Barry County Animal Control/Shelter Advisory Board. • Approval of a $252,657 budget amendment reflecting a distribution of excess net assets from the county’s self-insurance pool into the building rehabilitation fund to be used — as voted on June 12 — for courthouse and facility improvements. • Acceptance of a $15,500 emergency purchase notice for replacement of a jail camera recording system. • Approval of the appointment of Stolsonburg to serve as a delegate to the 2012 Municipal Employees Retirement System annual meeting to be held in Grand Rapids Oct. 30. Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, P.C. • Kenneth S. Merriman, M.D. • Eric S. Leep, D.O. • James L. Horton, Jr., D.O. • David J. Heeringa, D.O. • Maria Benit, PA-C • Christopher Born, PA-C Providing Excellence. In the Art of Total Orthopedic Care Physical Medicine and Pain Management Accessible. Comprehensive. From left to right: James L. Horton, Jr., D.O., Orthopedic Surgeon; David J. Heeringa, D.O., Orthopedic Surgeon; Eric S. Leep, D.O., Physical Medicine; Kenneth S. Merriman, M.D., Orthopedic Surgeon. For more information on Hastings Orthopedic Clinic or to learn about all of our services, please visit us online at www.hoc-mi.com, scan our QR code below with your mobile device, or contact us directly at (269) 945-9520. 07602215 by Julie Makarewicz Staff Writer Thornapple Township officials agree with neighboring communities that the practice of “fracking” may not be in the best interest of the land and natural resources. The township board unanimously approved a resolution Monday urging banning of fracking in the United States. “The Thornapple Township Board fully supports a statewide and national ban on hydraulic fracturing for natural gas, and calls on our state representatives, Michigan congressional delegation and United States senators to ban fracking to safeguard our citizens from harmful effects and to preserve our environment for generations to come,” the resolution states. A few residents attended Monday’s board meeting to discuss the issue and were at the township planning commission meeting in May to urge discussion on the topic. Fracking is the process of horizontal hydraulic fracturing for natural gas. It involves the use of chemicals and hazardous materials during construction, drilling, fracturing, gas production, delivery and well maintenance. Township officials said they realize they cannot ban the practice in the township, but can pass a resolution urging lawmakers to consider legislation to ban the practice. Other townships have already passed similar resolutions, including Yankee Springs and Orangeville. The Thornapple Township resolution was developed from another communities’ resolution. The resolution states that there have been more than 1,000 documented cases of water contamination near fracking sites and that it may be hazardous to the local environments. Community members thanked the board for taking a stand and said they hope state officials are paying attention to all the concerns. Dustin Terrel �Page 20 — Thursday, June 21, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Delton’s Wandell sixth at Division 3 State Finals by Brett Bremer Sports Editor It’s no surprise that Delton Kellogg’s Mitchell Wandell ended his senior golf season with a medal around his neck. The sport runs in the family. His father Wes Wandell has been a Class A PGA teaching pro for a number of years. His older brother, Robbie, who he played with his freshman season at Delton Kellogg continued his playing days at Glen Oaks Community College. Mitchell is going to continue his playing days for the Davenport University men’s team. “I started when I was probably five or so, just swinging in my living room. I remember that,” said Mitchell. “I had this little hockey stick I just used to swing around. I don’t know why. It was this little plastic hockey stick, and I used to hit plastic golf balls in my house, like little foam ones. Then started playing in tournaments.” “I think my first tournament was when I was like seven.” His last tournament, to date, was the Division 3 State Finals at Forest Akers East Golf Course on the campus of Michigan State University Friday and Saturday where he finished sixth in the state with his 36-hole total of 146. He fired a 72 Friday then came back with a 74 Saturday to earn his first state medal. His final round Saturday had its ups and downs, two birdies and two holes where he three-putted. His birdies came on par-4 number 17 and the par-3 number four. “On 17 I hit a big drive, it was like 340 yards and I almost chipped my second one in,” Wandell said. “I just had a tap in for birdie. On four, I made probably a 25-footer for birdie and that was it.” He didn’t three-putt on an green during his round Friday. The three-putts Saturday were the ones that really stuck out in his mind. “They’re the mistakes, the ones you regret, the ones you want back,” Wandell said. It was Wandell’s second appearance in the state finals. He also qualified as a junior. “His game has improved a lot,” said Delton Kellogg head coach Kent Enyart. “He was Lakewood’s Kyler Clark chips his ball up onto the seventh green at Forest Akers East Saturday during the Division 3 State Finals. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Delton Kellogg’s Mitchell Wandell hits his drive on number one Saturday during the Division 3 State Finals at Forest Akers East Golf Course in East Lansing. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Delton Kellogg’s Mitchell Wandell looks on from the medal stand after placing sixth at the Division 3 State Finals in East Lansing Saturday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) good as a freshman, but he just hits the ball so far now. As a person, he’s as good a kid as I’ve ever had. He’s humble. He never gets too high. He never gets too low. The worst you’re gonna hear out of him is ‘dang it!” I’m gonna miss him a lot. I really am, going to be missing writing ‘Mitchell Wandell’ down on the scorecard or the roster.” West Catholic’s Sam Weatherhead took the tournament championship with a score of 136. He shot a 69 Friday, then fired a 67 Saturday. Notre Dame Prep’s Aaron Knutson was second with a 70-70-140. Mt. Morris EA Johnson’s Zachary Kiefer and Jackson Lumen Christi’s Alex Reynolds tied for third with two-day totals of 144. The other golfer ahead of Wandell was Lumen Christi’s Austin Eccleton who shot a 145. Led by its two top ten golfers, Lumen Christi won the team state championship with a two-day score of 596, firing a 302 Friday and a 294 Saturday. Hanover-Horton led heading into Saturday after shooting a 297 Friday, then needed to win on the tie-breaker for the runner-up trophy after shooting a 305 on day two to finish at 602. Grosse Ile was third with a 602 as well, and Weatherhead’s West Catholic team was fourth at 603. Lansing Catholic was fifth with a 618, followed by Pontiac Notre Dame Prep 620, Flint Powers Catholic 623, Williamston 627, Ithaca 631, Lakewood 643, Roscommonn 647, Macomb Lutheran North 649, Stanton Central Montcalm 653, Ludington 654 and Lake Fenton 666. Lakewood moved up two spots into tenth with its best 18-hole round of the season as a team Saturday, a 316. That round included a personal best 18-hole score of 78 for Ben Ridder, and a season best 79 for Jade Bosworth. The Vikings also got an 81 from Adam Barker Saturday and a 78 from Kyler Clark. “It was very similar to last season,” said Lakewood head coach Carl Kutch. “We came into the first round a little sluggish, but they came back knowing we could beat a few more teams today and jump up in the overall standings.” The Vikings were ninth a year ago, and all but one of its top golfers from that team. This year, all five golfers who shot at the state finals for the Vikings were seniors. Ridder, one of those seniors, had his best round ever in his final high school round. “I had good practice rounds and I had a decent round (Friday),” Ridder said. “I just hit them solid, hit a lot of fairways and a lot of greens. I had to par my last four holes to break 80, then I go and I birdie one and it left me some room on that last hole.” Ridder pumped his fist as the ball rolled into the coup for birdie on number seven. He also birdied ten and 16 on Saturday, with the last of those three birdies (on number seven) helping him bounce back from a ten on the par-5 number three. “I got off the hole and my dad yelled ‘one hole at a time,’ and that got me out of it,” said Ridder. Ridder fired an 82-78-165 for the Vikings over the two days. Lakewood also got a 7881-159 from Barker, an 80-79-159 from Bosworth and an 87-78-165 from Kyler Clark. Royce Everts shot an 88-86-174 as well. “They’re seniors. They knew it was their last round of golf as high school players. I think they came in saying, ‘no regrets,’” said Kutch. Lakewood’s Ben Ridder sets himself up for a birdie putt with a shot from the edge of the fairway on number seven at Forest Akers East Saturday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) “You Speak, We Listen” Dear fellow community member, Pennock Health Services is an independent, not-for-profit healthcare organization that belongs to the community. The Board, Medical Staff and Colleagues take seriously the commitment of providing exceptional quality health services, in a personal, professional, and progressive manner in partnership with you. As we craft the future of local health care, listening to our community becomes even more important. To enhance community feedback, Pennock Health Services has contracted with a national survey company, HealthStream®, to telephone a random sample of households in Barry County between June 20th and July 21st. The goal will be to obtain opinions regarding current health care you receive and your perceptions of health care offered in our community. Your feedback is crucial as we seek to improve the overall health of our community. Members of the Lakewood varsity boys’ golf team get together following their tenth place finish at the Division 3 State Finals at Forest Akers East Golf Course in East Lansing Saturday. Team members include (front from left) Royce Everts, Kyler Clark, Adam Barker, Jade Bosworth, (back) coach Gary Elliott, Blake Yaeger, Ben Ridder and head coach Carl Kutch. (Photo by Brett Bremer) If you any questions regarding the survey, please contact Janine Dalman, Executive Director of Marketing and the Pennock Foundation. She can be reached at jdalman@pennockhealth.com or (269) 945-3651. Thank you in advance for your participation. Sheryl Lewis Blake, Chief Executive Officer Pennock Health Services 77568870 Sincerely, SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN Summertime’s the right time for electronic payments by Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist When you are away from home, one thing you don’t want to worry about is how you will receive your next monthly Social Security payment. That is why it is important for everyone receiving Social Security or Supplemental Security Income benefits to sign up for electronic payments. Today, about 90 percent of all Social Security and SSI beneficiaries receive their payments electronically. That number is increasing because the law requires that by March 1, 2013, all federal benefit payments, including Social Security and SSI payments, be made electronically. Whether you receive Social Security or SSI, you can depend on your payment arriving in your account on time, every time. If you don’t already receive electronic payments, there are many good reasons to sign up. For one, less money and time spent driving to the bank to cash your check helps you save. Second, fewer paper checks, envelopes and stamps, and less fuel to deliver the checks means savings for the government. When on vacation, an electronic payment ensures payments will be deposited into your account on time, so there’s no reason to worry about the safety of your benefit or to ask a neighbor to look out for your check when you are away. As an added bonus, many banks offer free checking accounts for people who use direct deposit because it saves the bank the cost of processing paper payments. Skip the line at the bank, save money, get your payment faster and know you can depend on your payment being in the bank no matter what happens or where you are. You can do all of this with electronic payments. Learn more at www.socialsecurity.gov/deposit. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-06-28.pdf c73c33de827814dc8c547aebee4ed9a8 PDF Text Text Hastings still considering park smoking ban Board misses chance to fix animal shelter issue Gold medal winner teaches local wrestlers See Story on Page 2 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 16 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 26 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, June 28, 2012 Larry Neil given Rotary Club’s Red Rose award NEWS BRIEFS Trombone quintet returning to fountain series Fridays at the Fountain will feature a return appearance by the Quintessential Bones June 29. This group of five trombones with rhythm section will be back to entertain audiences with a diverse repertoire of music arranged specifically for their medium. The Battle Creek-based ensemble continues to perform for audiences throughout West Michigan with works from the American Song Book, as well as patriotic arrangements to get audience members in the mood for the upcoming Fourth of July holiday. All concerts take place on the lawn of the Barry County Courthouse near the fountain. In the event of rain concerts move to the community room of the Hastings City Bank, 150 W. Court St. Concerts begin at noon and are completed at 1:30 p.m. Patrons are also reminded that the Seasonal Grille offers take-out lunches and donates a portion of the proceeds to support the series. Monday is deadline for Country Showdown entries Anyone wishing to compete in the WBCH-Texaco Country Showdown at the Barry County Fair has until 5 p.m. Monday, July 2, to submit registration forms. The country music talent search is open to vocal and instrumental performers. The local winner will go on to the state competition and vie for a $1,000 case prize and a chance at the regional competition in the fall. Five regional winners will be awarded an allexpense paid trip to the national final in Nashville, Tenn., where they will compete for the $100,000 grand prize. Entry forms are available at Bosley Pharmacy, Thornapple Valley Community Credit Union, Walker Music and Textiles, Family Fireworks, or by calling 269-9453414. City Band celebrating America on July 4 Hastings City Band will present a special patriotic musical tribute to America during its fourth concert of the season Wednesday, July 4, at 7:30 p.m. on the Barry County Courthouse lawn. The free concert will also include some special guests. Guest conductor will be Robert C. Oster, artistic director and conductor of the Lakewood Area Choral Society. Making their debut performance with the Hastings City Band will be sopranos Kristen Kennedy, Anna Williams and Cindy Olson, along with tenors Neal Johnson, Jon Cleveland, Randy Masterson and Marty Snoap. They will perform four selections with the band, including “God Bless America,” “I Love a Sousa March,” “God Bless the USA” and “America the Beautiful.” In keeping with the patriotic theme, the band will also be featured in a salute to the music of Irving Berlin, a medley of songs from the branches of the nation’s armed forces, as well as several well-known marches, including Sousa’s “Stars and Stripes Forever.” Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets, patriotic spirit and American flags. In case of inclement weather, the concert will be held indoors at Leason Sharpe Hall in the former Presbyterian church on the corner of Church and Center streets. The final concert for the Hastings City Band will be Wednesday, July 11. by David DeDecker Staff Writer Longtime resident and businessman Larry Neil is this year’s recipient of the Hastings Rotary Club’s Red Rose award. The Red Rose award has been given to Hastings Rotary Club members since 1949 for their community service. Red Rose committee member Randy Teegardin said, “It would be very easy to poke fun at Larry because he was an insurance salesman. There is never a shortage of comments to be made about insurance agents, but the fact of the matter is, in all my time in Hastings, I have never once heard a negative comment about the way Larry conducted business. That’s a real tribute.” Neil graduated from Woodland High School in 1956. He now lives on a farm between Woodland and Hastings with his wife of 52 years, Jan (Smith) Neil. They raised a son and two daughters, and now enjoy the hectic life of attending the activities of 10 grandchildren. When not at a sporting event, Neil enjoys maintaining and driving his 1929 Model A Ford, fishing, hunting and horseback riding. He joined Hastings Rotary in 1990 and was Hastings Rotary Club president in 2001-02. Prior to Rotary, Neil was involved in the Hastings Jaycees and served a year as its president. He has also been president of the Barry County Chamber of Commerce. “He has been a very involved Rotarian,” said presenter Carl Schoessel during Monday’s club meeting. Schoessel said Neil has been involved on several committees and is a devoted pancake supper volunteer. In 1998, he said, no one was a more faithful volunteer to the Books for Africa project than Neil, who sorted and categorized thousands of donated books before they were shipped to schools in Africa. Out of high school, Neil worked at a factory in Ionia, then at E.W. Bliss and Sunoco gas station in Hastings. The insurance career for which he is best known began in 1968 when he joined Farm Bureau. After nearly 40 years, he transitioned into semi-retirement n 2007, but continues to sell insurance on a part-time basis. Teegardin said Neil won many awards and trips during his 39 years with Farm Bureau, including trips to Hawaii, Switzerland, Ireland, Australia and the Caribbean. Another member of the Red Rose selection committee, Fred Jacobs, referred to Neil as a superstar. “So often today we look at heroes as superstars on television and movies, in sports are- See AWARD, page 2 Larry Neil and part of his family celebrate his receiving the Red Rose Award. Pictured are (from left) grandsons Dylan Buresh, Seth Buresh and Ethan Buresh, Neil, granddaughter Sarah Buresh, wife Jan Neil, daughter-in-law Kim Neil, daughter Kathy (Neil) Buresh, son Matt Neil, son-in-law Bob Buresh. (Missing are daughter Sue Neil, grandchildren Kendra Neil, Logan Neil, Grant Neil, Ellary Neil, Tyler Buresh and Cody Buresh.) Frustration builds over Walldorff named best Animal Control issue microbrewery in state by Doug VanderLaan Editor Like a dog chasing its tail, Barry County Commissioners spent their meeting Tuesday running after a solution to the increasingly frustrating Animal Control and shelter issue, but again caught no consensus. A resolution amending the Animal Control Enforcement Ordinance to establish an Animal Control department, to hire a director, and to reassign Animal Control jurisdiction from its current authority with the sheriff’s department to the newly created department failed on a 4-4 vote. At last week’s committee of the whole meeting, commissioners provided approval on a 5-3 vote to move the matter forward as a recommendation for formal adoption at Tuesday’s official board meeting. However, Commissioner Ben Geiger reversed his stance, leading to Tuesday’s tie vote which, by commission rules, negated adoption of the resolution. “We cannot lose sight of our budget deficit (projected for 2012),” said Geiger. “I cannot support spending money for a new director with new money that we do not have.” That became the fulcrum for much of Tuesday’s discussion. Commissioner Robert Houtman, who proposed the original amendment to the Animal Control ordinance allowing the hire of a new director, laid out a financial scenario supporting his stance built on $32,717 not yet spent in the current fiscal year due to an Animal Control officer position that has been frozen from new hire. “On December 31, that money gets carried over to the new fiscal year,” pointed out Houtman, “so we don’t have an issue this year. Next year, if we had to find $10,000 or $15,000, or even $20,000 — I don’t know, that’s up to this board and this administrator to tell us what he needs to hire somebody for this county. “I don’t think we can jump out there with a number, but let me remind you that this board will decrease by one member next year due to reapportionment. The cost of one commissioner this year is somewhere between $12,000 and $26,000, money that we will not spend. That’s No. 1. “No. 2 is, we have been advised by our county administrator that our revenue stream is looking a little better ... I don’t think there’s a pot of gold out there but we’ve got a budget process coming up and that is where this needs to go ... This is a quality of life issue.” That scenario could not overcome the reticence of fellow commissioners, however, who worried about possible costs that might spin off a framework headed by a new director. “There’s a lot of concern about the current staff being overworked right now with just one animal control officer,” Commission Chair Craig Stolsonburg brought up. “If we have a new director in place are they going to be able to accomplish everything? My concern is that, first thing, a new director is going to come to us and say we need a new animal control officer. So there’s more money that needs to be spent.” Which only raised the frustration of Commissioner Joe Lyons. “I’m here to tell you that there are going to be different sides to this and they’re going to hear what they want to hear,” said Lyons. “This has gone on long enough ... you’re going to vote they way you want to vote, it’s obvious that there’s different factions and, when you’re sitting here telling me that it’s the monies involved, that’s a cop-out.” Commissioner Dan Parker related for commissioners his conversation with a member of See ANIMAL CONTROL, page 3 Readers of Michigan Travel and Vacation Magazine have voted the Walldorff Brewpub and Bistro Michigan’s Best Microbrewery in a recent online poll. Walldorff won the top honors among more than 100 microbreweries located in the state. The annual “Michigan’s Best” contest is sponsored by the magazine to determine winners in categories, such as best microbrewery, travel destinations and more. “The Best Michigan Microbrewery votes go to the Walldorff Brewpub and Bistro in Hastings,” wrote Sheri Frey in the July/August issue of the magazine. “This cute brewpub and restaurant is familyowned and family-operated. Stop by, enjoy the home brew and delicious foods, and see why people voted this the Best Michigan Microbrewery.” The restaurant and microbrewery in downtown Hastings will celebrate its sixth anniversary this summer. “We feel very fortunate to have received such an award,” said owner Mike Barnaart, crediting the teamwork of the Walldorff employees. “We are lucky to have two topnotch brewers on staff in Sam Sherwood and Brett Hammond, whose beers have won numerous awards, including Best of Show out of over 400 beers from around the world at the 2010 World Expo of Beer in Frankenmuth,” he said. “The Michigan craft beer industry continues to be recognized worldwide for highquality products,” he added. “Several Michigan breweries, including Founder’s, Bell’s and Dark Horse Breweries, consistently have beers that are ranked among the best in the world. To be a top 10 finalist See MICROBREWERY, page 3 Portion of West State Street closed to traffic Cones and barricades were erected on the east side of the intersection of Broadway and West State Street in downtown Hastings Monday afternoon. The portion of State Street just east of Broadway (right) will be closed for approximately two weeks to allow the Michigan Department of Transportation contractor to do extensive storm sewer work and for AT&T to work on telecommunication cables beneath the street. State Street traffic is detoured north on Broadway to Apple, east on Apple to Michigan and south on Michigan back to State Street. The additional closure adds to the traffic and construction which includes closure of Michigan Avenue and lane reductions on Broadway. �Page 2 — Thursday, June 28, 2012 — The Hastings Banner City officials continue to mull smoking ban in city parks by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer A complete smoking ban, smoking banned only in certain areas, or smoking allowed only in certain designated areas of all city parks — the Hastings City Council has asked city staff to prepare a draft ordinance for each scenario and bring it to the next council meeting for discussion and consideration. The council has been mulling a smoking ban in city parks since members of the Barry County Tobacco Coalition earlier this month requested the council make all city parks smoke-free, an attempt to reduce youths’ exposure to secondhand smoke, smoking waste such as cigarette butts, as well as the sight of adults smoking which they contend may lead the youths themselves to try smoking. Speaking on behalf of the coalition during Monday’s council meeting were Janine Dalman from Pennock Hospital and Dr. Robert Schirmer, medical director for the Barry-Eaton District Health Department. Schirmer said, according to a recent survey, 21 percent of 11th graders in Barry County have smoked in the past 30 days, and 90 percent of current smokers started as teens. “One in two teenagers who keep smoking steadily will be killed by tobacco,” he said. “If you follow those teens for 50 years, that figure is two out of three.” “Youth are heavy users of parks, and parks are fun,” said Schirmer. “We don’t want to link smoking with fun ... Adults are role models, and smoking in parks is subtle promotion that associates smoking with fun and healthy activities that can make smoking more acceptable to youth.” Schirmer said surveys on the health department, hospital, and city’s websites indicated that of the 135 respondents from the 49058 ZIP code, 83 respondents, or 61 percent, favored smoke-free parks in Hastings. While all members of the city council have said they agree with the council’s stance that smoking is a health hazard and preventing young people from beginning to smoke is key, they had varying opinions on how, or even if, the city should ban smoking in its parks. Council member Don Bowers said he did his own poll of 26 city residents and that those who were smokers did not want smoking banned in city parks but non-smokers thought it would be okay. “Not a, ‘Yes,’ but a, ‘Yeah, it would be okay,’” he said. “Pennock is not a non-smoking area because they are out smoking on the sidewalk ... You haven’t stopped smoking.” “We are a non-smoking facility but we can’t police people all the time ...” said Dalman. “This is not an ordinance against smokers,” said Schirmer. “It certainly is,” contended Bowers. “No it’s not; smokers may still use the park,” said Schirmer. “We’re just asking them not to smoke in the park.” “It’s the same way everywhere,” said Bowers. “They’re not saying you can’t smoke, only in that area — in the shops, in the restaurants. You are always taking something away from them. I don’t smoke; but I still think they have the right to choose whether or not they want to smoke in our city parks because they pay the bill, too,” he said. Council member Barry Wood said he spoke to 60 to 70 people, and a large majority of those people were in favor of a smoking ban in city parks. “A few people were saying maybe an area in the park to permit smoking, or maybe one or two parks,” he said. “But, a large majority of the people said make them non-smoking.” Wood said that while he is in favor of encouraging people to quit smoking, he was not in favor of making city parks smoke-free until he had a chance to talk to residents about their preference. “I would think if we were thinking of doing this in the parks, we would start with doing it in 1st Ward Park which is almost all children’s equipment and is also the skate park [which] covers most of the park. I think that would be a good one to test, to start with, because it is mostly used by underage citizens. I would be willing to try it in a spot and consider some sort of compromise in the larger parks we have, and consider during athletic events, banning [smoking] as well.” Brenda McNabb-Stange, Mayor Pro-tem “I would now vote in favor of making the parks non-smoking,” he said. Mayor Pro-tem Brenda McNabb-Stange said the issue seemed to revolve around smokers in the park during children’s and athletic events and children’s play areas in the parks. “I would think if we were thinking of doing this in the parks, we would start with doing it in 1st Ward Park which is almost all children’s equipment and is also the skate park [which] covers most of the park,” she said. “I think that would be a good one to test, to start with, because it is mostly used by underage citizens. I would be willing to try it in a spot and consider some sort of compromise in the larger parks we have, and consider during athletic events, banning [smoking] as well.” McNabb-Stange said Escanaba banned smoking in city parks only within 100 feet of playgrounds and beach. “I think something along those lines would be doable, as well, so you don’t have them smoking in the stands during games where people are a lot closer together and there is a lot more impact with the secondhand smoke and danger even with the lit cigarettes,” she said. “Something along those lines would be a doable compromise.” Council member Bill Redman said he would like to see the council adopt an ordinance that would allow a small smoking area in each of the city’s parks. “I feel we need to go for all the parks and a smoking area and let the staff decide what that smoking area would be,” he said. “All parks would be smoke-free with a smoking area.” “How are you going to police it?” asked Bowers. “Those are issues you’re not looking at. Are you going to have someone from [the coalition] go through and check them out and turn them in?” “You can’t police people’s behavior all the time,” said council member Jeri DePue, who said that only three of the nine Michigan communities which have banned smoking have done so in all parks. DePue said that while she agrees with the coalition in principal, she does not feel a smoke-free parks ordinance would be enforceable. “You can’t legislate people; you just can’t,” she said. Council member Dave Tossava said that if the city bans smoking it should be in all parks because all parks have playground equipment. McNabb-Stange said that only one of communities that has banned smoking in parks has banned it outright in all areas of all parks. “We could be the leader” said Redman. In other business, the council: • Held a public hearing and heard a presentation from representatives from and Hubbell Roth & Clark regarding proposed system upgrades at the city’s wastewater treatment plant using funds from the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality S2 grant program. After the hearing and presentation, the council approved a motion to submit the plan to the MDEQ for review and approval. City staff is expected to present the proposal to the council during it’s Monday, July 9, meeting for funding for the design of Phase I of the improvement plan, to be paid for in large part using MDEQ funds, with construction on Phase I to begin in 2013. Mansfield said the city may be ale to pay its portion of the project, through funds generated through operations without having to applying for other loans. • Approved a request from Mike Barnaart the president of Walldorff Brewpub and Bistro to block a portion of North Jefferson Street between State Street and the alley behind the Walldorff building from 2 p.m. Saturday, July 28, through 2 a.m. Sunday, July 29, for festivities from 5 p.m. to midnight to celebrate the establishment’s sixth anniversary. The motion also approved a stay of ordinance to allow the possession and consumption of alcohol on a closed public street during the event. • Approved a request from Valerie Byrnes on behalf of the Barry County Chamber of Commerce to use parking spaces on Church and State streets for a Barry County Chefs Challenge Cook-off event from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Aug. 8. • Approved a request from Byrnes on behalf of the Hastings Downtown Business Team and the chamber to permit downtown businesses to display and sell merchandise on city sidewalks during the Gus Macker Tournament Saturday, June 30, and Sunday, July 1, and during sidewalk sales Friday, July 13, and Saturday, July 14. • Approved a request from Bonnie Hildreth, president and CEO of the Barry Community Foundation, to close a portion of Church Street from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, July 14, for activities during the grand opening celebration for the Barry County Enrichment Center. • Approved a request from Joe LaJoye and Mike Smith of the Thornapple Jazz Orchestra to close the portion of parking lot No. 1 closest to the old library building from 4 to approximately 11:15 p.m. Friday, July 27, to allow for a 40th anniversary party for Bosley Pharmacy. • Approved a request from Christianne Statler, coordinator for the Community Music School, to hold a summer recital in Fish Hatchery Park from 9 to 11 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 9. • Amended the 2011-12 fiscal year budget by $5,760 to $15,760 in the library fund for capital improvements as requested by the Hastings Public Library Board, and the Hastings Downtown Development Authority Fund estimated revenues from $509,852 to $561,852 to reflect the receipt of a parking lot No. 7 from Commercial Bank, and the appropriation for expenditures in the DDA fund from $209,010 to $261,010 to reflect the purchase of property from Goodrich Theaters. • Held a second reading and approved a motion to deny an ordinance that would have allowed keeping of up to four hen chickens in the single-family residential zones of the city. The motion to deny the ordinance was approved by a 3-4 vote with Mayor Bob May, McNabb-Stange and Tossava voting against it and trustee Waylon Black absent. • Held a second reading and unanimously approved an ordinance to allow wall signs on accessory buildings in commercial and industrial zones. • Approved and authorized May and city clerk/treasurer Tom Emery to sign a service agreement with Green Gables Haven, a recreation agreement with YMCA of Barry County, and an agreement with the BIRCH Fire Department. • Approved an agreement to adopt a hybrid pension plan for the new employees in the Hastings City Police Department as specified in by the Police Officers Association of Michigan collective bargaining agreement and authorized Emery to sign and submit the document to Municipal Employees Retirement System. • Approved awarding the following bids as recommended by Director of Public Services Tim Girrbach: 1996 John Deere 855 tractor and attachments sold to Fillmore Equipment for $6,555; polymer purchased from WaterSolve in the amount of $1.62 per pound for an estimated $37,260; liquid chlorine purchased from Jones Chemicals in the amount of $78 per 150-pound cylinder for an estimated total of $5,460, phosphate-poly/ortho blend in the amount of $12.98 per gallon for an estimated total of $32,450; and, liquid aluminum sulfate hydrate solution to USALCO in the amount of $1.2764 per gallon for an estimated total of $44,674. AWARD, continued from page 1 Carl Schoessel (left) presents Larry Neil with Rotary’s Red Rose Award as Jan Neil looks on. 269-967-8241 TWO BROTHERS AND A TENT For All Your Tent Rental Needs 77568328 77569047 Tables and chairs available. Call: Dan McKinney 269-838-7057 or Tom McKinney 269-838-3842 Certified Financial Planning 77566915 ® Randy Teegardin, CFP. Hastings City Bank Trust and Investment Group ® The 269-945-2401 150 W. Court St. Hastings, MI 49058 Investment opportunities include non deposit investments which are: Not FDIC Insured Not Bank Guaranteed May Lose Value Professional Electrolysis Kristi Hanshaw Registered Electrologist Celebrating 19 years in Practice A permanent solution to unwanted hair 06785100 616-891-2400 9958 Cherry Valley S.E., Caledonia 77564841 Free Confidential Consultation Larry, joined by his wife of 52 years, is this year’s winner of the Hastings Rotary Club’s Red Rose award. nas ...,” said Jacobs. “When you look around our communities, that’s where the real superstars are. People who make a difference in communities and in people’s lives. People who take on projects and lead community activities. I have known Larry a long time, and today we are celebrating a community superstar.” Jacobs presented a history of Neil’s career, starting with an insurance announcement photo of Neil that appeared in a 1968 newspaper. He said Neil received many top awards from Farm Bureau, including the Elton R. Smith Award in 1997. Only 11 other agents nationally had received that award at the time. As he presented Neil’s high school senior picture, Jacobs talked about Neil’s involvement in Future Farmers of America. He told of Neil’s support of local agriculture and mentioned the Barry County Fair. Jacobs said he learned how to buy 4-H livestock from Neil, and said Neil has cost him a lot of money over the years. Schoessel then presented Jan Neil with a bouquet of red roses and Larry Neil with the Red Rose Citation plaque. Neil said he almost went to the lake on meeting day, but remembered it was Red Rose day and he decided to attend, not knowing he was this year’s recipient. “It’s not often that I get blind-sided,” said Neil. “I am really glad I came today.” He spoke about the Rotary ideals, about a West Michigan man over in Africa drilling water wells, and Rotary’s role in the projects around the world. “It’s a worthy thing we do,” said Neil getting a bit choked up. “It a great thing Rotary does — service above self. The interesting thing is you really end up being the winner every time that happens.” He spoke about his family and attending sporting events, saying the years go by way too fast. He closed by extending his thanks to the club. “We have had a great, what I will call, membership,” he said. “We have been involved in a lot of great things over the years.” �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 28, 2012 — Page 3 Charlton Park to host 30th annual July 4 celebration Old-fashioned games for kids (and adults) of all ages will be offered during the 30th annual Fourth of July celebration at Historic Charlton Park. Area residents can celebrate America’s 236th birthday the Barry County way at the 30th annual Old-Fashioned Fourth of July and Veterans Barbecue at Historic Charlton Park. Charlton Park. The event begins at 11:30 a.m. with a flagraising ceremony, followed by a veteran salute at noon. Admission to this event is free, and everyone is invited. The barbecue buffet runs from 12:30 to 4 p.m. in Walnut Grove, sponsored by the Fourth of July Veterans Association; tickets are $9 per adult, $5 per child. A portion of the proceeds goes back to local veterans programs. Guests can bake a pie and enter it in a contest. First place wins four Charlton Park event passes, and second place wins two Charlton Park event passes. All entry pies will be auc- tioned off to the highest bidders. Visitors are free to join in or watch the oldfashioned games on the village green starting at 1:30 p.m. Children and adults can participate in sack races, eating contests, hay bale toss and many other games. Live music will be provided near the Upjohn House. The village buildings will be open. Ice cream and a bottomless mug of lemonade will be available at the Bristol Inn. Uncle Sam is expected to stop by during the event, which runs until 4:30 p.m. Historic Charlton Park is located just north of M-79 between Hastings and Nashville. Visit www.charltonpark.org for more information, check Facebook, or call 269-9453775. Lake Odessa Fair underway now through Sunday ANIMAL CONTROL, continued from page 1 the Allegan County Humane Society who now runs that county’s animal shelter and of the wisdom of considering other management models before making a decision in Barry County. According to Parker, the Allegan County Humane Society operates the shelter on the $48,000 in the county’s budget for the shelter and has used an extensive network of volunteers to also head up a revenue campaign that, through licenses, spaying and neutering fees, and other animal support programs has raised an additional $130,000 in this year alone. “They expect to be self-sufficient in two to three years,” said Parker. “There are other possibilities out there, and we need the time to look at them.” Parker went on to state that, in the event that Houtman’s motion to amend the animal control ordinance failed, that he would propose a motion that the board appoint a citizen’s committee that, in 45 days or less, would report back to the board with a recommendation on how animal control in the county be run. Also on hand Tuesday, at Houtman’s invitation, was Jamie McAloon-Lampman, director of the Ingham County Animal Control, who provided several examples of how a director-led department has not only provided exceptional animal control and adoption service but has also significantly increased revenue. “You cannot provide animal control and adoption services without charging fees,” McAloon-Lampman told commissioners, outlining how licensing, adoption, animal training, and on-call fees have pushed her department toward self-sufficiency. “Our licensing fees along have moved our revenues from $276,000 to $420,000.” McAloon-Lampman also outlined the establishment of an animal cruelty fund which, through donations, has helped account for the $500,000 that the department now contributes to its $1.1 annual budget. McAloon-Sampman’s encouragement to commissioners that new revenue streams be developed to help support the hiring of a department director, however, was negated by the perspective of a colleague not in attendance. In a June 22 letter addressed to Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf and distributed by Leaf after the beginning of Tuesday’s meeting, Stephen J. Lawrence, director of animal serv- ices and enforcement for Kalamazoo County, told commissioners that, rather than hire a new director, it would be better off hiring two new Animal Control officers. Lawrence, who addressed the commission personally during last week’s meeting, told Leaf in his four-page letter that the hiring of a new director “is going to cost your taxpayers more money and will not provide any additional revenues and will not provide any better care for your animals then (sic) they already receive from you and your staff.” The letter, that was read into the record by three commissioners sharing the duty, was only one of several points of contention expressed by Houtman and citizens given the opportunity to provide public comment prior to the commission’s final vote. “Dar, I’m not sure what you asked Steve or what you told Steve about our advisory board or about our volunteers,” said Houtman in a direct address to Leaf, with whom he’s been sparring over the Animal Control issue for months. “But the response I’m hearing is that he heard a totally different story than what I’ve been hearing the last 18 months. “This is not a personal vendetta against you, Dar. This is about doing what the community asked for and paid for 12 years ago. This board will sell short this community if it doesn’t move forward.” Fred Jacobs, vice president of J-Ad Graphics, Inc., publisher of the Banner, was even more direct in his admonishment of Leaf and of the county board’s performance. “The reason people complain about government is what went on here today,” Jacobs told commissioners. “This was the most disgusting display of good government that I’ve seen in a long time ... How can you vote on something before you know what it’s all about? You should know how much it’s going to cost, right to the penny. You should know if you have the money in the budget. “You shouldn’t say ‘let’s hire a director and solve the problem for the short term’ and then, a year from today, come back and say we’ve got to have more money. What if we need another animal control officer? Those questions should be required and demanded by each and every one of you guys before you call the question. That’s why the frustration level is so high here. “That letter you wrote is the most disgusting letter I’ve ever read in my life,” Jacobs said to Leaf, “and why you would read it in public is beyond me. If you want to pass it out, fine but that’s one person’s perspective. “If you vote today — and I don’t care how you vote — you will do the citizens of this county a disservice because you don’t have the facts. None of you have the facts — you have opinions but don’t go on your opinions, get the facts. The people in the county should be demanding of you good government and if you can’t give it, you should go.” Commissioners Lyons, Don Nevins, Houtman and Jeff VanNortwick voted in favor of the ordinance amendment. Commissioners Howard “Hoot” Gibson, Geiger, Parker and Stolsonburg vote against it. Parker’s motion for the appointment of a citizens committee filed on a 6-2 vote with only Parker and Gibson in support. Instead, the commission directed County Administrator Michael Brown to draw up an agenda request form for discussion on the topic at next week’s Committee of the Whole meeting scheduled for July 3. In other business, the commission: • Approved a plan and application update for the Office of Community Alternative Corrections to be eligible for the second year of funding under a three-year contract. • Approved a bid for $31,680 from Fox Building Services for rehabilitation of a house at 1311 S. Hanover St. in Hastings under the county’s Homebuyer Purchase Rehabilitation program. • Approved a Farmland and Open Space Preservation Program request from Steven and Carol Price for property located in Woodland Township. • Approved the appointment of Robert Vanderboegh to serve on the Barry County Building Authority for a three-year term. • Approved the appointment of Mary Fisher to serve a two-year citizen-at-large position on the Barry County Animal Control/Shelter Advisory Board. • Approved a $252,657 budget amendment reflecting a distribution of excess net assets from the county’s self-insurance pool into the building rehabilitation fund to be used — as voted on June 12 — for courthouse and facility improvements. • Approved the appointment of Craig Stolsonburg to serve as delegate and Ben Geiger as an alternate to the 2012 Municipal Employees Retirement System annual meeting in Grand Rapids Oct. 30. Local fireworks are Sunday, Wednesday Area residents and visitors will have two chances to enjoy fireworks in the days surrounding the July 4 holiday. The Gun Lake Protective Association will launch its pyrotechnic display Sunday, July 1, around 10 p.m. Fireworks will be set off at Murphy’s Point, near the state park on the north side of the lake. The Algonquin Lake Community Association will provide a fireworks display Wednesday, July 4, at dusk. In case of rain, fireworks will be postponed until July 5 or the next dry evening. The association is asking all Maple Leaf Amusements will host the midway during the 77th annual Lake Odessa Fair. Lake Odessa Fairgrounds are filled with children of all ages, animals, rides, games, food and fun through Sunday, July 1. The 77th annual fair kicked off Wednesday with a parade honoring Grand Marshals Bill and Jewel Eckstrom. Maple Leaf Amusements are providing rides, games, entertainment and more. Dairy and goat shows are Thursday, beginning at 9 a.m. Adult dodgeball competitions start at 7 and Gunner and the Grizzly Bears at 9 p.m. Friday’s events begin at 9 a.m. with beef and sheep judging; followed by youth volleyball at 2, midway at 4, and scramble track rac- ing at 7:30 p.m. Saturday’s activities include the youth horse show at 9 a.m. Kids day on the midway starts at 1 p.m. Adult volleyball tournament and cage fighting commence at 6 p.m. From noon to 7 p.m. is the Lake Odessa Fire Department pork roast. The adult volleyball tournament continues Sunday, beginning at noon. The washer toss contest and ladies day start at 3 and the midway opens at 4 p.m. Scramble track racing begins at 7:30 and fireworks will bring the fair to an explosive yet colorful end at 10:30 p.m. Consumer fireworks spark concern over noise in Lake Odessa by Bonnie Mattson Staff Writer Concern over noise from personal fireworks was brought before the Lake Odessa Village Council at its June 18 meeting. Citizens reported fireworks being set off at all times of day and night within the village. A new law went into effect this year permitting the sale of “consumer fireworks,” a grade of explosives that includes Roman candles, bottle rockets, missile-type rockets and aerial fireworks. The law mandates certain restricted periods during the year when no local ordinance can supersede their use. The only time municipalities may not restrict the use of fireworks are on the day before, the day of, and the day after a federal holiday. At all other times, the use of fireworks is subject to pertinent local ordinances. According to Lake Odessa Village Manager Mark Bender, villages throughout the state are adopting noise ordinances concerning the use of fireworks. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that 40 states, including Michigan allow some or all types of consumer fireworks. Five states — Illinois, Iowa, Ohio, Vermont and Maine — allow only sparklers and other novelties. Arizona only allows novelty fireworks, and Delaware, Massachusetts, New Jersey and New York ban all consumer fireworks. “One would hope that the novelty would wear off,” said Bender, “but I expect we will have to look at developing an ordinance to deal with the issue in the coming months. Until then, we will address complaints the best we can.” MICROBREWERY, continued from page 1 boaters to respect the orange markers around the island from which the fireworks will be launched. Law enforcement personnel will be present. The Lake Odessa Fair will conclude with fireworks Sunday, July 1, (see related story). Anyone looking for patriotic events during daylight hours July 4 can enjoy an old-fashioned celebration at Historic Charlton Park from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Hastings City Band will provide a free patriotic concert on the Barry County Courthouse lawn at 7:30 that evening. Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads with those breweries in the poll was a great honor in itself. To receive the most votes as the best microbrewery in the state has been a wonderful experience.” Other Michigan’s Best 2012 award winners included: Best Michigan sports team — Detroit Red Wings. Best destination for an adventure — Sleeping Bear Dunes. Best place to take kids on vacation — Drummond Island. Best place to vacation on a budget — Tahquamenon State Park. Best place for camping — Ludington State Park. Best places to go mountain biking — Copper Harbor Trails. Best tourist attraction — Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Favorite free thing to do or see in Michigan — explore Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes Best museum — The Henry Ford. Best Michigan zoo — Detroit Zoo. Best Michigan beach — Oval Beach, Saugatuck. Best hiking trails — Porcupine Mountains. Best biking trails — Mackinac Island Best place for Michigan boating fun — Grand Haven. Park Party is Thursday at Barry Expo Center Television personality Maranda will again host a park party at the Barry Expo Center Thursday, July 5, from noon to 2 p.m. The party will feature two hours of free food and fun, including an inflatable slide and obstacle course, mechanical rides, games, stage entertainment and interactive booths hosted by local nonprofit organizations. Kids attending the Hastings party will have the chance to try out a 25-foot zip line. 77569041 �Page 4 — Thursday, June 28, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Repurposed hardware County board misses another chance to settle animal shelter issue The new Quaker Brook bridge in Nashville retains a bit of old ingenuity. A worker points to original fasteners reused in the new structure. The special fasteners, which could be tightened later as the wood shifted, were manufactured by the St. Louis Malleable Casting Co. of St. Louis, Mo. A total of 58 such pieces were preserved from the old bridge and hold the new walkway in place. Metal I beams and pilings also were retained from the previous structure. The bridge was a community project made possible by a grant from Barry County Parks and Recreation and the Thornapple Trail Association. Maple Valley High School building trades students constructed the trestles, and volunteers assembled the bridge in June. We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Do you know? Do you recognize either of these women or know why they are surrounded by flags from across the world, including Old Glory, front and center? Were they preparing for a holiday? An international celebration? Foreign exchange students? Do you know when this photo was taken or why? What can you tell us? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event to reunite the photos with their original clippings or identify photos that may never have been used. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@j-adgraphics.com; or call 269-9459554. Last week’s photo was identified by one reader as an early X-ray machine, but no further information, including names of people in the photo, was provided. The photo in the June 14 Banner Have you appeared to be a more formal-style dinner where hot dogs were served. Reader Judy Decker of Delton recognized Clyde and Rosalee (Cascadden) Divine in the photo met? Emily (Butler) Mater is a lifelong resident of Barry County. She and her husband, Joe, live in Nashville with their four children. Emily is a graduate of Maple Valley High School and Hope College. She has been the assistant director of Putnam District Library since 2008, where she oversees the children’s programs. She is also the Clubhouse Children’s Ministry director at Grace Community Church. For her tireless enthusiasm for young people and for sharing her love and passion for reading and community, Emily has been named a bright light. Favorite vacation destination: Up North with my family beside a babbling brook. Life motto: All things are possible with the Lord. Favorite style of music or song: Christian music — favorite song is “Blessings,” by Laura Story. Best advice ever received: Do unto oth- What do you ers as you would have them do unto you. If I could choose a superpower, it would be: Apparition, like in Harry Potter (the ability to disappear into thin air and reappear where you want to). A perfect day would be: Reading a book on my deck while the kids play peacefully together in the back yard. I would most like to meet: Joni Eareckson Tada Favorite book: Les Miserables by Victor Hugo — such a powerful story with themes of redemption, loyalty and determination (and it doesn’t hurt that they made an awesome musical out of it!). Growing up I wanted to be: a secretary or teacher at school. If I could visit another time and place I would choose: England in 1812, the Jane Austen era. Emily Mater think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website, www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week. Feel free to leave an opinion or comment. Last week’s question: Hastings City Council members will vote Monday on a proposal to ban smoking in all city parks and are looking for constituent input before the decision is made. Should smoking be banned in all city parks? 41% 59% Yes No and possibly Otis Harthy, but was not certain of the occasion or the location of the photo. For this week: The upcoming holiday will mean louder and more powerful fireworks without a needed permit, thanks to a new state law. Are you in favor of the state allowing more bang? q q Yes No For more than 20 years, Barry County Commissioners have wrestled over the operation of the Animal Control office. Presently, under the direction of Sheriff Dar Leaf, the animal shelter has turned into an animal control operation with little or no regard to the potential for adoption. This long-simmering debate came to a head at the board’s committee of the whole meeting June 19 when commissioners voted 5-3 to recommend that as a full board they amend the Animal Control Ordinance. The proposed resolution would have reassigned Animal Control responsibilities and general operational duties from the sheriff’s department to a newly created department under the direction of an Animal Control director. The sheriff and his department have been the center of controversy because of the direction the department has taken under his management, particularly in regard to the euthanasia rate of shelter animals and for not allowing volunteers to help find suitable homes for adoptable dogs and cats. If the county has volunteers willing to help at the shelter by offering their services for the welfare of the animals, why is the sheriff making it impossible for them to work? County officials and the sheriff should be mobilizing all the volunteers they can get to help find homes for the animals that come through the facility each week. In January 1992, a Banner article revealed that the shelter was overflowing with unwanted animals. “January is the worst month of the year because of ‘returned’ Christmas presents,” said then Animal Control Officer Pam Ronchetti. “Due to the overcrowding, many of the animals brought to the shelter had to be put down.” For nearly 10 years, county officials debated the need of a new shelter. In March 1996, more than 75 people attended a public hearing over the fate of the old shelter. Some spoke in favor of privatizing the shelter while others preferred a millage to build a new facility to replace the aging structure. One concerned citizen said that before any action was taken, the county needed a specific definition with list of all the problems at the shelter. Another said more information was needed before voters could make an intelligent decision. And another man said that the money would be better spent on other issues facing the county. Then, in 1999, a group of community supporters calling themselves Animal Shelter 2000 Committee formed to build and to staff a new facility. The group spearheaded a campaign to build a new shelter to accommodate animals and to avoid the need to put them down — with a clear understanding that volunteers would help with animal adoption. Kathy Wiggins, then-president of the Barry County Humane Society, said at the time that a new shelter would help immensely with finding homes for animals and avoid the need to put them to death. “Having a nice new facility will make people feel good about going to the facility. There is no question about it, it’s not a happy, uplifting experience to go to a facility that’s on it’s last legs,” she said referring to the previous structure. “I just feel that people will have a sense of pride about the new facility for a long time. The Humane Society is only interested in helping the animals in the community. We have no political bones.” The issue should have been resolved. Yet, Tuesday county board members met to discuss a shelter issue whose resolution was never implemented and now, once again, returns to plague a board that for 20 years has failed to get it right. Under consideration is a plan to remove jurisdiction of Animal Control and the animal shelter to a newly created department with a full-time director who would report directly to the board of commissioners. For nearly two hours Tuesday, commissioners argued costs of the plan, some citing the impact of the current economy and a possible budget deficit for the coming fiscal year. Others insisted on voting for the plan despite costs not being finalized and revenue possibilities still under consideration. So again, the shelter issue raises its ugly head due to the inability of county officials to find a solution once and for all. I attended Tuesday’s meeting and witnessed one of the most unprofessional government sessions in recent memory. To add to the frustration, Leaf entered the board meeting late, and then proceeded to pass around a letter dated June 22, from Stephen Lawrence, director of Animal Services and Enforcement of Kalamazoo County. The letter was a blatant lobbying effort to convince commissioners to maintain Animal Control and shelter jurisdiction under the sheriff’s control. When board Chairman Craig Stolsonburg asked Leaf what he wanted the board to do with the letter, Leaf said he wanted the entire four-page letter read. With little regard to time and leadership, Stolsonburg began reading the letter, followed by Ben Geiger who read page 2, then Dan Parker who read the balance. It was bad enough that a room full of concerned citizens and guests had to sit there while three members of the board read the tainted document, but the exercise ended up adding even more frustration to a fractured process. Month after month, commissioners meet as a committee of the whole with very few citizens in attendance. Due to the interest in this topic, last week’s meeting was moved to the circuit court room to accommodate a larger crowd. The board expected the issue could attract a number of interested citizens, yet it failed to provide a mandate that would have demonstrated true leadership, instead voting 5-3 to move the issue as a recommendation for the plan to Tuesday’s meeting. With plenty of time, commissioners had a responsibility as elected leaders to come prepared Tuesday, yet they fumbled around, challenging each other on what direction to take and then demanding action. When one commissioner shouted “this has gone on long enough,” he was right — it has gone on long enough, but this board didn’t do its homework and was unprepared to bring a proposal and vote on a resolution that is long overdue. Commissioners Parker, Gibson and Geiger said they needed more information. Commissioners Lyons, Houtman and Nevins said the time had come to vote. Voting in favor of the resolution was Houtman, Nevins, Lyons and Van Nortwick. Voting against were Parker, Geiger, Gibson and Stolsonburg, giving them a tie vote which meant the motion failed. It’s common today for citizens to voice their disgust with government’s inability to deal with issues. Anyone attending Tuesday’s board meeting could see first hand how county commissioners failed to use sound leadership skills. Board members took almost two hours to debate the issues over and over again with little or no answers. Commissioners had months to prepare for this significant meeting. Why didn’t they instruct staff to prepare the necessary information needed to vote and put this issue behind them? They just argued among themselves with little or no concern for its responsibility to deal with such a simple issue. The entire history of this Animal Control debate is in their files. The answers to all of their questions are available from staff and from experts in the field. Yet, in the board chambers Tuesday, attendees saw the commissioners carry on like cats and dogs, putting off the heavy lifting for another day. At the beginning of the meeting, I urged commissioners to select a special citizens committee comprised of one commissioner, county administrator Michael Brown, a representative from the shelter’s advisory committee, a Humane Society member and a citizen-at-large to come up with a reasonable proposal that could put an end to the Animal Control crisis. As I finished my public comment remarks and left one of the most frustrating meetings of my life, I expressed my disgust over commissioners inability to deal with what should have been a reasonable exercise of professional leadership. Contact your county commissioner. Voice your concerns for a final conclusion on this issue because, due to a lack of leadership on Tuesday, the shelter continues to put down animals that just might warm the hearts of local families. Fred Jacobs, vice president, J-Ad Graphics GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 28, 2012 — Page 5 Glossy brochures can’t hide dangers IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV Let’s give kids an advantage To the editor: Growing up is hard to do. Children need guidance that can carry them through the many temptations they will encounter. In November of 2011, law enforcement officials in Kalamazoo met to discuss early childhood education. The Kalamazoo Gazette headlines after that meeting were read: “Law enforcement make push for preschool” and “Officials say early education helps reduce future criminal behavior.” Barry County is blessed with several quali- ty preschools. Parents and grandparents should consider giving their children a vital preschool education. The Barry Intermediate School District can provide an up-to-date list of all preschools. Give them a call at 269945-9545, ext. 164. Also, the barrygreatstart.org website can provide additional information. This is good for our children and for the Barry County community. Don Drummond, Hastings Nakfoor-Pratt is the best candidate To the editor: I would like to remind the citizens of Barry County that the primary election will be Aug. 7. Registered voters of Barry County will select the prosecuting attorney for Barry County, who will hold the office of prosecuting attorney for our county beginning in January. As a retired Michigan State Police trooper from the Hastings Post, I urge all registered voters to cast their vote for Julie Nakfoor Pratt. Having known and worked with Julie Nakfoor Pratt in the past, and following her career as assistant prosecutor in Barry County, assistant prosecutor in Allegan County, later the prosecutor in Barry County, and an attorney in private practice, I find no other candidate better qualified for this office. Julie Nakfoor Pratt has the knowledge, car- ing, professionalism, integrity, and devotion to ensure fair and equal justice through the court system. As both assistant prosecutor and prosecutor, she served with dignity and honor, and I am sure she will continue to work in this manner while serving the citizens of Barry County. She is a board member of Family Support Center (formerly known as Child Abuse Prevention Council for Barry County), and was awarded the Child Advocate of the year in 2006 from Safe Harbor Children’s Advocacy Center in Allegan County. Julie Nakfoor Pratt has always shown great concern for the citizens of Barry County, and I again urge all voters to cast their vote for her in the August primary. Ken Langford, Hastings Vote for the candidate with experience To the editor: Since I made the announcement that I am retiring as register of deeds at the end of my term this year, three people have expressed an interest in running for the position. As many of you know, I am supporting Barbara Hurless, my chief deputy, for the register of deeds position. I have heard that inaccurate comments have been made regarding how inefficient the register of deeds office is, that the official is never in the office, the staff does not get along with other and is rude to customers, that we have outdated technology and we are overstaffed. There is only one full-time and one halftime employee in the register of deeds office, plus the elected official. This is why the elected official is in the office every day, all day helping the staff, which is how it should be. Unfortunately, when one of us is at a meeting, on vacation or is ill, it leaves the office shortstaffed. Due to budget cuts there is no money for overtime. The abstract office is now part of the register of deeds office, and again, this has one full-time person to oversee the abstract department, which is very busy, also. There are instances when we are not able to answer the phone, such as when we are all taking care of customers in the office or on a phone call on another line. We are all aware of the importance of our duties and take them seriously. We do our best to treat our customers with respect and a friendly attitude. We function as a team in the register of deeds office. We are all cross-trained to be able to help each other with any task needed. We recently updated the technology in our office to a state-of-the-art software program that will allow us to serve our customers even better. I, for one, want someone who possesses the knowledge and experience of the office and its duties and responsibilities to be in charge. Vote for the person with the knowledge and experience – the maintenance, security and integrity of your real estate records depends on it. Darla Burghdoff, Freeport Cut county commissioners’ and school administrators’ pay To the editor: As I stated a few years back, all the money and fringe benefits the county commissioners receive, if eliminated, could save the county around $250,000, if not more. There should be term limits and commissioners should only get paid $50 per county board meetings, only – anything else or any other meetings they should not be paid for. The county commissioners should be working for the people – not against. The savings alone should help defray excess expenses for the animal shelter and county. All former commissioners should no longer have any benefits from being a commissioner. As for the City of Hastings, stay out of people’s vices. It is bad enough that the state overtaxes alcohol and tobacco. I don’t smoke and my husband died of smoker’s lung cancer – but I do not agree with a ban of smoking at city parks. Make a designated area – that way children and animals won’t get the butts. As for the schools – shame on them – the schools need the paraprofessionals — pay them minimum wage – no benefits. Also has the great school board asked someone to check for less expensive insurance?? Maybe the administrators, athletic director and principals, and food service director should take pay cuts. The administration has outsourced the custodians – why not busing, food service and maintenance? Deb James, Hastings The Hastings Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Bonnie Mattson • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 To the editor: This is in response to the many people in Barry County who believe that fracking is proven safe and has a clean record on pollution of aquifers and private wells. In a recent article written by Abraham Lustgarten in ProPublica entitled, “Injection Wells: The Poison Beneath Us,” was the following statement: “In 10 to 100 years, we are going to find out that most of our groundwater is polluted,” said Mario Salazar, an engineer who worked for 25 years as a technical expert with the EPA’s underground injection program in Washington. “A lot of people are going to get sick, and a lot of people may die.” These are sobering words from an insider. You will not hear these words from Michigan’s DNR, DEQ, Gov. Rick Snyder, and especially not from oil and gas corporations. They will continue to spread propaganda through written and televised media channels to lull prospective lessors (lease signors) into a false sense of safety and security until they put their name on that lease. A brochure put out by Michigan Oil and Gas Producers Education Foundation paints a rosy picture for Michigan’s fracking future. In answer to the question, “Can fracturing fluids find their way to groundwater” their answer is, “No, assuming proper construction of wells according to state regulations.” However, the actual data shows that these steel casing and cement injection wells have in fact deteriorated in many cases as well as experiencing breakage from excessive pressure injection at fracking sites all across America. The Michigan DEQ has assured the citizens of Michigan that it is regulating and watching these many industrial fracking operations and there is no need for concern. How very reassuring, except that there is hard evidence that accidents seem to happen anyway. Remember the Enbridge oil spill into the Kalamazoo River in 2010? A disintegrated pipe that no regulatory agency had time to monitor, and now the river has been sp-oil-ed for two years. Even if the limited DEQ staff, in good faith, works 80 hours per week, they will not be able to monitor all of these industrial operations that will run 24/ for 90 days per well, let alone ensure the integrity of plastic-lined toxic waste-brine-mud-sludge holding ponds, nor the chemical waste hauling trucks that have been known to dump this toxic brine on the isolated dirt roads of many rural communities, or, prevent toxic gas and chemical air from dissipating from these holding ponds. At a recent informational meeting at Pierce Cedar Creek Institute, a representative from The DEQ apologized for arriving straight off the job, since they are down to just two staff members. I am assuming he meant for all of Barry County. The ProPublica article reported, “A ProPublica review of well records, case histories and government summaries of more than 220,000 well inspections found that structural failures inside injection wells are routine. From late 2007 to late 2010, one well integrity violation was issued for every six deep injection wells examined – more than the 17,000 violations nationally. More than 7,000 wells showed signs that their walls were leaking. Records also show wells are frequently operated in violation of safety regulations and under conditions that greatly increase the risk of fluid leakage and the threat of water contamination.” The energy industry is required to inspect their Class 2 wells every five years. Even though Class 1 wells are described as containing the most hazardous materials, the oil and gas corporations are exempt from this classification, as well as the Clean Air Act, and Clean Water Act. Class 1 wells are required to be inspected each year. One of the fracking leases presented to a Barry County resident was for five years. According to Gregory Oberly, an EPA groundwater specialist who studies injection and water issues in the Rocky Mountain region, “You’re not going to know what’s going on until someone’s well is contaminated and they are complaining about it.” Good luck trying to prove they poisoned your well, though, since many of the chemicals are protected trade secrets. If you can’t afford to get base-line water testing, perhaps you can make this a caveat to the lease. In one lease, I read they would pay to test the topsoil for fertility, and reimburse said farmer if ‘this’ soil was damaged. They didn’t mention testing soil below the plowzone, or the water, though. That’s because clean water is priceless to people who want to live, or just work their farm, and even billions of corporate dollars can’t unpoison an aquifer or shallow well. Maybe Michigan taxpayers have the money to put some kind of tracers in the toxic injection well brines as a quality-control measure. Will the frackers be willing to pay for this? Maybe lessors could add this caveat to their lease. In a misleading statement published in their brochure, the Michigan Oil & Gas Producers Education Foundation states in response to the question of What chemicals are used in hydraulic fracturing that “a small amount (less than 2 percent) of additives is used to ensure the water/sand mixture works effectively in opening up rock fissures and enabling gas or oil to flow to the well. Most additives are those we encounter every day, such as disinfectants, table salt, bleach, mineral oil and sodium carbonate (used in water softeners). I guess that 120,000 gallons of known cancer-causing toxins as close as 200 feet to your house isn’t that much, is it? At the very least, you can be guaranteed that the six million gallons of poisoned aquifer water will be sitting in an open-air pond near your home. Sounds like a good place to have little children running around, doesn’t it. A note to day-care providers who sign a fracking lease – they’d better find a different job. The industrialization of Barry County is imminent if the citizens and our public officials agree to it. Our economic future has the potential to thrive and prosper without killing the hopes and dreams of present and future generations. We all have decisions to make, but realize that in the case of the Halliburtonstyle fracking industry, the short-term finan- cial gain is far outweighed by the burden of knowing we contributed to the demise of our beautiful jewel in the crown of Michigan. Corinne Turner, Orangeville Township Hurless would serve the county well To the editor: All register of deeds offices oblige the register and deputies to understand and abide by the laws of the state, and from my experience, these offices all consistently display the professionalism and cohesiveness required for maintaining a respected department. Barry County’s office certainly meets that standard; however, Barry County’s Register of Deeds is also outstandingly efficient and congenial. Barb Hurless, as chief deputy register, is an exceptional asset to the county and clearly upholds the demeanor and respect for privacy required by the state. Although it is difficult to say good-bye to a remarkable register of deeds, Darla Burghdoff, I believe Barb has the integrity, experience, intelligence and compassion demanded of this office and that Barry County would be privileged to have her as the next register of deeds. Marilyn Smith, Hastings Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits �Page 6 — Thursday, June 28, 2012 — The Hastings Banner GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Area Obituaries Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. Edward Wright Worship Together… 77568923 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 . ORANGEVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH 6921 Marsh Rd., 2 miles south of Gun Lake, Plainwell. Phone 269664-4377. OrangevilleBaptist.org. Pastors Dan Bowman and Adam Parmenter. Sundays - 9:45-10:45 a.m. Sunday school classes for age 2 through adults; 11 a.m. Summer messages: “God’s Ten Words For a Vital Spiritual Life” (The Ten Commandments); 5:30 p.m. Teen Word of Life Club; 6 p.m. “Guard the Gospel” A study of 2 Timothy. Wednesdays - 7 p.m. prayer; 8:30 p.m. Men’s Bible Study. MondayFriday - July 9-13 - 9:30 a.m.-noon, Vacation Bible School, age 5-7th grade with Uncle Al Torres - RBM Minstries. Sunday, July 15 - Guest speaker, Dr. Eldon Stevens. Sunday, August 19 - Summer concert. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Rev. Ryan Wieland. Sundays - 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Service; Sunday School and Nursery available during both services (Summer Schedule - Adult Sunday School: 9 a.m., Worship & Children’s Programs 10 a.m.) Youth Group, Covenant Prayer, Choir, Chimes, Praise Band, Quilting Group, Community Breakfasts and more! Call the church office at (269) 721-8077 (M/W/F 9 a.m.-12 p.m.), e-mail office@mei.net or visit www.countrychapelumc.org <http://www.countrychapelumc.org/> for more information SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 9:15 Contemporary Worship, 10:30 a.m. Refreshments, 11 a.m. Traditional Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Youth Pastor, Eric Gillespie. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. for children and youth, and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Junior & Senior High Youth Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Mid-Week Pioneers and adult classes return in September. Thursday: Senior Adult Bible Study at 10 a.m. and lunch at Wendy’s, 11:30 a.m. Vacation Bible School: Wed. & Thurs., July 25 & 26, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Sunday, July 1 - Summer Hours . Worship at 8 and 10 a.m. July 1 Lakewood Area Choral Society Concert 3 p.m.; Men’s Alcoholics Anonymous 7 p.m.. July 2 - Spiritual Alcoholics Anonymous 7:30 p.m. July 4 - Office Closed. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-9459414 or 945-2645, fax 269-9452698. Pastor Amy Luckey. http://www.discover-grace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service. 5 p.m. Summer Youth Group to Mini Golf. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot. com. Thursday - 6:30 p.m. Softball game. Friday - 9 a.m. Golfer’s Group Meets; 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday - 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday - 4 p.m Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings Fiberglass Products 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, June 28 — Movie Memories enjoys jungle to jungle with “Mogambo,” 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, June 29 — preschool story time enjoys the stories of Mem Fox, 10:30 to 11 a.m. Monday, July 2 — summer reading program, “Dream Big, Read” continues; Kathy Crane art exhibit continues. Tuesday, July 3 — young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30.; open chess club, 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, July 4 — library closed for Independence Day. Call the library for more information, 269945-4263. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. Lauer Family Funeral Homes ROCKLIN, CA - Edward Wright was born on January 5, 1963 in Battle Creek and passed away on Wednesday, June 20, 2012 in Rocklin, CA. He was the beloved husband of Kathy Wright and devoted father to Sara and Jacob. Ed grew up in Hastings and attended Hastings High School and later graduated from Western Michigan University. While working at Herman Miller Inc., in Michigan, Ed and his family transferred to California in 2000 to continue his work at the Rocklin plant. He was preceded in death by his mother, Inez (Norris), and his father, Wilbur Wright of Michigan and Tennessee. He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Kathy; his two children, Sara and Jacob; his mother-in-law, Mary Fuller; and brother-inlaw, Bruce (Lynne) Fuller of Hastings; and by many beloved family members from Michigan, Tennessee, and Delaware. Edward loved spending time with his family. He enjoyed anything that had to do with cars and helping people. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends, but will always live in the hearts of those who love him. Visitation will be held on Saturday, June 30 at Specks Funeral Home, 300 North Church Street, Livingston, TN, at 1 p.m., with services to follow at 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Grand Haven Area Community Foundation – Scott Fredricks Fund. Website: http://www.ghacf.org/aboutus.htm, address: Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, 1 South Harbor Drive, Grand Haven, MI 49417-1385. This fund was set up to honor the memory of Scott Fredricks, a close family friend who passed away just last year. Scott developed physical handicaps at an early age and later succumbed to his illness. Ed and Scott had an incredibly close bond. Ed would want the music program to continue and benefit other students who attend the Ottawa Area Center that so greatly benefitted Scott. In Lieu of a service in California, the family will be hosting a barbecue to honor Ed’s life. 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. Betty L. Culbert Robert N. Dahm BATTLE CREEK, MI - Robert N. Dahm, age 84 of Battle Creek, passed away Friday, June 22, 2012. He was born March 1, 1928 in Battle Creek, the son of Otto and Bernice (Olmstead) Dahm and was raised in Nashville, where he graduated from Nashville High School in 1946. Following graduation he worked at the Oliver Company for 10 years and later retired from Eaton Corporation in Marshall in 1988 after 26 years of service. On June 25, 1949 he married Betty M. (Baker), who preceded him in death on August 1, 2005. He was also preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Sharon Brady. Surviving are two children, Robert L. (Sheila) Dahm of Essexville and Judy A. (Randy) Johnson of Eaton Rapids; two grandchildren, Ben and Elizabeth Johnson; two step-grandchildren: Randy (Cindy) Johnson Jr. and Melissa Breese; five step great-grandchildren; and one sister: Bonnie (Gene) Wyant of Maricopa, AZ. Funeral services for Mr. Dahm were held in the chapel at Floral Lawn Memorial Gardens on Wednesday, June 27, 2012. Memorial contributions may be directed to The American Diabetes Association. Arrangements made by Richard A. Henry Funeral Home. www.henryfuneralhome.org Merle L. Fowler KALAMAZOO, MI - Merle L. Fowler, of Kalamazoo, formerly of Delton, passed away June 17, 2012. Merle was born January 5, 1924, in Kalamazoo, the son of Merle and Maude Fowler Sr. Merle was a 1942 graduate of Kalamazoo Central High School. Merle proudly served his country in the US Army during WWII. A printer by trade, Merle worked for Mastercraft and Doubleday, retiring in 1991. He was a member of the Delton Moose Lodge and the VFW Post 422. Merle received EMT training at Kalamazoo Valley Community College, and was active with the local ambulance service. A CB radio enthusiast, Merle also enjoyed bowling in several leagues. On November 3, 1946, Merle married Minniev Mae Brewer, who preceded him in death on August 18, 2011. Merle is survived by a son, Donald (Sharon) Fowler of Cleveland, GA; a daughter, Sue Fowler of Kalamazoo; five grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren. There will be no services and a private family graveside service will take place at East Hickory Corners Cemetery. Please visit www.williamsgoresfuneral.com to view Merle's online guest book. LOWELL, MI - Betty L. Culbert of Lowell passed away on Sunday, June 24, 2012 at Pennock Health Services. She was born in Middleville to Raymond and Leila (Haynes) Serven on June 13, 1926. She was a graduate of Middleville High School. She married Robert W. Culbert on July 3, 1945 in California. She and Robert returned to Hastings where they raised their family. They then moved to Florida for a short time then returning to the Lowell area. She was employed at E.W. Bliss and Hastings Manufacturing and then was retired from Amway’s clerical staff after 12 years of employment. She enjoyed antiquing after her retirement and spending time with her children and grandchildren. Surviving are her daughters, Martha Shattuck of Hastings and Carmen Melkild of Lowell; grandchildren, Paul (Brandi) Melkild of Lowell, Kyle (Alice) Shattuck of Hastings, Jason (Jami) Shattuck of Hastings and Amber Shattuck of Hastings; greatgrandchildren, Michael, Megan, Madison, Shad, Cora, Meghan, Kevin and Lylah. Preceded in death by her husband, Robert; son, Jeffrey; sister, Barbara Leary; and brother, Raymond. Honoring her wishes cremation has taken place, there will be no visitation and a private interment will take place next to her husband in Riverside Cemetery. Lauer Family Funeral Home – Wren Chapel, 1401 N. Broadway in Hastings is entrusted to care for the family’s needs. Please share a memory with Betty’s family at www.lauerfh.com. FAMILY FUNERAL HOMES Marriage Licenses George Albert Fauce III, Freeport and Theresa Lynn Hatcher, Freeport. Marl Lorin Holton, Bellevue and Andrea Cobb, Bellevue. Eric Lee Duits, Hastings and Nicole Marie Garrett, Elizabethtown, NC Stanley George Norris Jr., Delton and Tammy Lynn Carpenter, Delton. Jeffery Richad Machan, Dowling and Kallie Laine Bessler, Climax. David Robert Lee Voss, Hastings and Venus Burbank, Hastings. Ryan Michael Penny, Bellevue and Kelly Lynn Kopp, Bellevue. Paul Dennis Clark, Wayland and Paula Jean Visnaw, Birch Run. Stephen Donald Kebler, Eagle and Leanne Sue Moore, Hastings. Nicholas Ronald Byers, Bellevue and Kimberly Marie Wemple, Bellevue. George Christopher Lovequist, Hastings and Maureen Lynn Obsorne, Hastings. Daniel Lavern Carr, Hastings and Teva Jean Wolfe, Hastings. Travis Cole Hanke, Edon, OH and Marissa Andrea Wieringa, Middleville. Brandon Scott Zalewski, Wayland and Nicole Ann Bouwens, Wayland. Ray L. Girrbach Owner/Director 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 • 269-945-3252 Serving Hastings, Barry County and Surrounding Communities for 45 years •Traditional and Cremation Services •Pre-Planning Services •Large Parking Lot - Handicap Accessible •Serving All Faiths •Pre-arrangement Transfers Accepted Family Owned and Operated www.girrbachfuneralhome.net �Social News Thelma Soya is celebrating her 90th birthday Happy 90th birthday to Thelma (Ball) Soya on June 23, 2012. Anyone wishing to send a card to help Thelma celebrate can send them to 1653 Pifer Rd., Delton, MI 49046. Huvers celebrate 50th anniversary Richard and Sunny (Wilder) Huver of Austin, Texas celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary at a dinner hosted by their children and grandchildren. Dick and Sunny were married at St. Rose of Lima Church on June 30, 1962. They now reside at 4408 Sarasota Dr., Austin, TX 78749. BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY by Gerald Stein NORTH N: A Q J 9 7 M: A 8 7 5 L: --K: A J 8 6 WEST N: 2 M: K 6 2 L: K Q J 9 3 K: 10 7 5 4 EAST N: K M: J 10 9 3 L: A 10 8 7 4 2 K: Q 2 SOUTH: N: 10 8 6 5 4 3 M: Q 4 L: 6 5 K: K 9 3 Dealer: East Vulnerable: East-West N Lead: AN North N 2N Pass East L 1L L 5L South Pass Pass West L 2L Pass Today’s column illustrates the need to be aggressive in your bridge bidding. The East-West team certainly was aggressive with their diamond fit. Unfortunately for the North-South team, they stopped short. They did not get the game contract in spades; they missed a potential slam, and they failed to double the diamond contract. All in all, there are plenty of reasons on this hand to show why you lose at bridge. East opened the bidding with a rather light diamond suit, opting to bid just one diamond although a weak two-diamond bid would have been suitable as well. It certainly would have given more information to the North-South team if East had opened with a weak-two bid promising between 5-11 high card points and a six-card diamond suit. South with six spades to the ten would have loved to have bid, but he opted to pass and see what partner could do. With only five high card points, there might be a place for the NorthSouth team, but South chose to wait and see. West certainly liked the diamond bid of East, and she raised her partner to two diamonds. They have a golden fit in diamonds with at least nine or ten diamonds between them. Enter North into the bidding. North has a number of options here. With a void in diamonds, the best bid that North could make with this beautiful hand is a Takeout Double bid. With 16 high card points and five dummy points, North almost has game in her hand. This is an excellent choice as she can double first, and then name her spade suit when the bid returns to her. The other option is to bid her spades and hope that partner South will have some support. In five of the nine tables, North bid the spades herself. In two of the nine hands, North chose the Takeout Double for a bid forcing partner to choose one of the three unbid suits. N bid by North, and now South saw the excellent fit in spades and East passed after the 2N N. South knew that they had 11 spades between them. What a golden fit! promptly bid 4N N bid as did North. Here East decided to sacrifice and bid an West passed after hearing the 4N L. All passed including North who should have reconsidered two options: astonishing bid of 5L N. The first option of doubling and make East-West pay for their sacrifice, or bid one more to 5N making the East-West pay for their indiscretion would have been a hefty 500 points in the North-South ledger. With East-West vulnerable, it is clear that East-West will lose four tricks: The spade trick, the heart trick, and two club tricks for down two vulnerable and a minus 500 points. That would have been an excellent score for the North-South team. Unfortunately, they let East-West sacrifice for a mere 200 points down, and they received their just rewards: a bottom on the scoring table. North’s second option would have been to continue bidding with such a wonderful hand: no N and possibly even going on to six spades. The maxim and the mesdiamonds, good support 5N sage for this hand come in from S. J. Simon and his book Why You Lose at Bridge, one of the all-time favorite books of bridge players and bridge writers. Written in the 1940’s, Simon’s words are still relevant to today’s players. In this case, his advice would have been to the NorthSouth team: “When in doubt, bid one more.” All those North-South teams that played in spades made five spades, three made six spades (not bid, however), and one team made seven spades (not bid either.) The message is loud and clear: When in doubt and in a competitive bidding where it appears that your opponents are sacrificing, do something! Don’t let them off the hook. Double for penalty or keep on bidding! ***** Note: S.J.Simon’s 1946 book Why You Lose at Bridge is available online at www.amazon.com or www.baronbarclay.com. The book is also available as a Kindle edition. ***** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 28, 2012 — Page 7 New state department heads appointed Rodney Stokes, who currently serves as director of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources director, was appointed last week to be Gov. Rick Snyder’s point man on working with cities to help them become more vibrant and inviting by enhancing their existing resources. Monday, the governor announced the appointment of state Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Director Keith Creagh as director of the state Department of Natural Resources, and state Department of Environmental Quality’s Policy and Legislative Affairs Director Jamie Clover Adams as MDARD director. As the governor’s special adviser for city placemaking, Stokes will work with municipalities on projects such as ensuring the availability of quality green space and enhancing recreational opportunities. Stokes was one of the governor’s first cabinet appointees after his election in 2010. Stokes began his professional career with the DNR in 1977 and held several leadership positions within the agency, including service as chief of the parks and recreation division, legislative liaison, chief of staff, acting chief of the law enforcement division and chief of the Office of Science and Policy. He also served as interim director and deputy director of the Detroit Recreation Department and as director of the Gainesville, Fla., Recreation and Parks Department. Creagh has extensive management experience, including policy development, strategic planning and operational leadership. He has served as MDARD director since January 2011, and was director of industry affairs for the Neogen Corp. after serving for 30 years within the state department of agriculture. He holds a bachelor’s degree in forestry from Michigan Technological University and is an avid outdoorsman. Clover Adams served as the state Department of Environmental Quality’s Policy and Legislative Affairs director since 2011. She has decades of experience both in working with the agriculture industry and in legislative policy development, notably serving as secretary of the Kansas Department of Agriculture from 1999 to 2003. Before joining DEQ, she was deputy chief of staff to Senate Majority Leader Randy Richardville, and served as director of the Senate Majority Policy Office before that. Clover Adams was raised on a farm in Michigan, and holds a master’s in public policy from Georgetown University and a bachelor’s degree in general studies from the University of Michigan. All appointments are effective July 9. State News Roundup Classroom is a zoo for some MSU students Taking education out of the classroom and directly into the field is a collaborative effort between Binder Park Zoo and Michigan State University. An elective natural science course offered to students in the study of zoology, fisheries and wildlife, parks and recreation, animal science, landscape architecture and design, hospitality and entomology. Students spend eight weeks in May and June at the zoo working side by side with staff, gaining knowledge and experience. They may find themselves in Wild Africa working with giraffes one day or working alongside the zoo’s veterinarian the next. “This is our third year conducting this course with MSU. I think the great thing about this class is that it allows students to have hands-on experience in the field that you just can’t get from books,” said Jenny Barnett, director of Wildlife Management, Conservation and Education. “This provides students with a wonderful opportunity of learning early on in their college career if this is a field they wish to pursue. This career choice is certainly not for everyone.” State confirms bovine TB in Alpena dairy herd Routine bovine tuberculosis surveillance testing conducted by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and the U.S. Department of Agriculture recently confirmed a mediumsize dairy herd as bovine TB positive in Alpena County, according to a June 22 press release from the Michigan Department of Agriculture. Bovine TB is an infectious bacterial disease that affects cattle and white-tailed deer in Michigan’s northeastern Lower Peninsula. A public information meeting will be held Thursday, July 12, at Alpena Community College. Northeastern Lower Michigan is designated as a modified accredited zone and is comprised of Alcona, Alpena, Montmorency and Oscoda counties. The MAZ is a USDA designation for the purposes of controlled cattle movement, TB testing, and disease eradication. The Alpena County farm is currently quarantined, and no cattle may enter or leave the premises until testing clears the cattle and farm of bovine TB, either through premises depopulation, or a test and remove process. Since the bovine TB eradication effort began, all of Michigan’s 14,000 cattle farms have undergone TB testing. In the past 14 years, MDARD and USDA have detected 54 TB positive cattle herds and four privately owned cervid operations in the northern section of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. Since 1995, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources has tested more than 188,000 free-ranging white-tailed deer, with 703 testing positive for bovine TB. To receive information regarding disease outbreaks or regulatory changes that impact livestock, join the Animal Health Listserv by visiting www.michigan.gov/emergingdiseases. Bill will add to college campuses During a visit to Wayne State University Monday, Gov. Rick Snyder signed legislation committing more than $300 million to higher education construction projects across the state. “These investments allow higher education in Michigan to stay on the cutting edge,” Snyder said. “Our colleges and universities play a critical role in Michigan’s future. I am pleased that we are able to support these worthwhile projects.” House Bill 5541 includes a commitment of more than $304 million to fund 18 construction projects statewide. The approved projects are: • Central Michigan University — $30 million for a bio-sciences building. • Grand Valley State University — $30 million for a science lab, classroom and office building. • Michigan State University — $30 million for a bio-engineering facility. • Northern Michigan University $25 million to replace Jamrich Hall. • Oakland University — $30 million for an engineering center. • University of Michigan, Ann Arbor — $30 million for renovations to the G.G. Brown Memorial Laboratory. • University of Michigan, Dearborn — $30 million for renovations to the Science and Computer Information Building. • University of Michigan, Flint — $16.6 million for renovations to the Murchie Science Laboratory Building. • Wayne State University — $30 million for a multi-disciplinary bio-medical research building. • Alpena Community College — $2.5 million for an electrical power technology and training center. • Bay de Noc Community College — $750,000 for remodeling of the Nursing Lab/Lecture Hall. • Delta College — $10 million for renovations to the Health and Wellness F-Wing. • Gogebic Community College — $750,000 for building renovations. • Grand Rapids Community College — $5 million for a renovation to Cook Academic Hall. • Jackson Community College — $9.8 million for renovations to Bert Walker Hall. • Lansing Community College — $10 million for renovations to the Arts and Sciences Building. • Mid-Michigan Community College — $8.9 million for the Mount Pleasant campus unification. • North Central Michigan College — $5.2 million for a health education and science center. In addition to the committed state funds listed above, more than $300 million is being invested in these infrastructure projects at the local level. Newborn Babies Olivia Frankie-Laveigh, born at Pennock Hospital on May 17, 2012 at 8:31 p.m. to Joe and Carrie Burns. Weighing 10 lbs. 7 ozs. 21 1/2 inches long. ***** Scarlet Mae McKinney, born at Spectrum Health, Grand Rapids, on April 19, 2012 at 3:50 p.m. to Daniel and Janna McKinney of Hastings. Weighing 8 lbs. 5 ozs. and 20 inches long. Welcomed home by big brother Jackson age 2 1/2. Proud grandparents are Karen and Steve Pleyte of Hastings, Kevin and Lisa Jackson of Sunfield and Terry and Leesa McKinney of Hastings. ***** Atonia Jay, born at Pennock Hospital on June 4, 2012 at 5:35 p.m. to Megan Hildebrant and Travis Reese of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 7 ozs. and 18 inches long. ***** Dayton Ronald, born at Pennock Hospital on June 8, 2012 at 10:30 p.m. to Tami Stevens and Mike Eberly of Lake Odessa. Weighing 7 lbs. 9 ozs. and 20 1/2 inches long. ***** Adriana Megan, born at Pennock Hospital on June 13, 2012 at 10:21 to Jolene Daniels and Joshua Coy of Hastings. Weighing 6 lbs. 10 ozs. and 19 1/2 inches long. ***** Elliott Ray, born at Pennock Hospital on June 5, 2012 at 6 p.m. to Gabriel and Manda Lafler of Woodland. Weighing 9 lbs. 7 ozs. and 21 inches long. ***** Isabella Rae, born at Pennock Hospital on June 7, 2012 at 7:56 ap.m. to Brian and Carrie Nurenberg of Hastings. Weighing 5 lbs. 14 ozs. and 19.5 inches long. ***** TWINS, Willow Eileen and Winston Clare, born at Pennock Hospital on June 11, 2012 to Melissa Roth of Lake Odessa. Willow was born at 7:48 a.m. and weighed 11 lbs. 8 ozs. and was 20 1/2 inches long. Winston was born at 7:49 a.m. and weighed 6 lbs. 6 ozs. and was 19 3/4 inches long. ***** Trayce Matthew, born at Pennock Hospital on June 14, 2012 at 1:06 p.m. to Courtney Mays of Charlotte. Weighing 7 lbs. 4 ozs. and 19 1/2 inches long. ***** Steven Walter, born at Pennock Hospital on June 15, 2012 at 5:06 p.m. to Brad and Samantha Jones of Middleville. Weighing 8 lbs. 8 ozs. and 19 1/2 inches long. ***** Leon Michael, born at Pennock Hospital on June 15, 2012 to Erica and Tyler May of Charlotte. Weighing 6 lbs. 12 ozs. and 20 inches long. 77569049 LAST CHANCE SIGN-UPS LAST DAY TO SIGN UP FOR FLAG FOOTBALL IS JUNE 30TH! Call anytime for Hastings Banner ads 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 We will be accepting sign ups at the HYAA Concession at the Macker Tournament in Downtown Hastings from 8am - 7pm on June 30th. Cost for flag players is $55.00. See our website for registration form www.hyaafootball.com Flag Football is open for grades K-2nd. Flag Football will start on July 10th! We are also still accepting sign ups for the 2012 3RD - 8TH GRADE FOOTBALL & CHEERLEADING PROGRAM Cost is $85.00 before the end of June. Parent's Meeting will be August 1st. Please see our website for details. Questions? Please call Val Slaughter (Football) 269-420-1406 or Connie Williams (Cheer) 269-953-0505. �Page 8 — Thursday, June 28, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of by Elaine Garlock The Lake Odessa Fair is in full swing with events each day and evening. Sunday will have the bi-annual quilt show in the Morris Building, complete with door prizes. No demolition derby is scheduled, but there will be races on the track. Animal judging, horse shows and more add to the fair. The alumni banquet for graduates of Lake Odessa High School is Saturday. The depot museum will be open all day open for visitors. Sunday is an ice cream social at the museum with the exhibit open to all visitors. Again we are seeing volunteers making their rounds in the evenings, with watering sprayers and barrels. Their efforts keep the beautiful planting urns watered. Each of the downtown containers has foliage plants and flowers. A few have conical miniature evergreens surrounded by lime green sweet potato vines and petunias. Others are centered by decorative grasses with billowy seed pods. This is a project of the Lake Odessa Arts Commission. Rev. Eric Beck returned from Jackson Monday to officiate at the funeral of Timothy Shears at Central United Methodist Church. Rev. Beck was on vacation from Central for his final two weeks before the July 1 start of his ministry in Jackson. The house on Jordan Lake Avenue, formerly home of the Bob Shoemaker family and later Brian and Dawn Galaviz, now has new dormers on the wings above the garage and the main living quarters. How does one invite a skunk? A bird feeder with a tray for sunflower seeds enjoyed by the birds seems to have an invitation system for feeding. The birds spill lots of seeds over the edge. The squirrels are thwarted in their attempt to get onto the tray because of launching distance so the squirrels feed on the ground. Now the homeowner finds that as evening darkness falls, the neighborhood skunk comes to get his share of what the squirrels leave behind. Probably the obvious would be to stop filling the feeder, but having it full of seeds is its intended purpose. The resident gets to enjoy the antics of the birds. A bluejay gets a sunflower seed in his beak, then he pivots his stance facing the outer edge. He holds the seed between his feet and proceeds to peck away the outer husk to the inner nut. Saturday’s garden tour sponsored by the Woodland Women’s Study Club had beautiful weather for the event. The variety of gardens was a joy to see. Some were confined to 66foot residential lots and one was even more narrow, fronting on Tupper Lake. However by use of free-form borders they housed a plethora of flowers and garden art. Another used a winding walk to make everything in the garden reachable. The Garden of Love, initially created in memory of Janie Rodriguez, is overflowing with roses in many colors with pots of colorful blossoms atop posts. Another gardener wondered how he could compete with the one at St. Edward Church with God on the garden team. However, there was no contest for whose was the most beautiful. Not only was it a pleasure to see all the gardens but also it was pleasant to see some of the other tour people going from place to place. The McMillen family will meet this weekend for its quadrennial family reunion, meeting the same year as the Olympics with family coming, from far and near to celebrate the clan with Scottish games, cookoff and more. Delores McMillen arrived from San Diego Monday, one of the early visitors. Last week the Grand Rapids Press reported the death on June 1 of Marian Burgess, 62, of Grand Rapids. She was the widow of Lyle C. Burgess Jr. who had been the editor of the Lake Odessa Sentinel, a sequel of the Lake Odessa Wave and a forerunner of the Lakewood News. their daughter Molly was born during their tenure here. The Lansing State Journal on June 13 reported the death of William Morkham, former resident who taught in Ionia while his (then) wife was a high school instructor in the Lake Odessa High School during the late 1950s. He died in Ballston Spa, NY on June 10. He was a veteran of WWII, serving in the USAF before graduating from MSU. After teaching 31 years he worked in a Lansing hardware store for 15 years. He was a parishioner of Christ Episcopal Church, member of the Elks, Masons, Shriners, Moose lodge and American Legion. He was 87. Yarrow, climbing vines, hollyhocks, hydrangeas, daylilies are now in blossom. GET MORE NEWS! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. NOTICE The minutes of the meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners held June 26, 2012, are available in the County Clerk’s Office at 220 W. State St., Hastings, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or www.barrycounty.org. 77568926 UDSA REAL ESTATE FORECLOSURE SALE Minimum Bid: $45,500.00 (or best offer above minimum bid) OFFER MUST BE IN FORM OF CERTIFIED CHECK THE DAY OF THE SALE Summer is here — which means a vacation most likely isn’t far away. Whether you’re hitting the road, jumping on a plane or even enjoying a “staycation” at home, you’re probably looking forward to some down time with your family. But not every aspect of your life should be relaxed. Specifically, you don’t want to take a vacation from investing — which means you need to become a diligent, year-round investor. Here are a few suggestions that can help: • Keep on investing. Don’t head to the investment “sidelines” when the financial markets experience volatility. You don’t want to be a nonparticipant when things turn around because, historically, the early stage of any market rally is generally when the biggest gains occur. (Keep in mind that past performance of the market is not a guarantee of future results.) • Keep learning. In just about any classroom, the best students are the ones who get the most out of their education and put their learning to the best use. And the same is true of the investment world: The more you know about the forces that affect your investments’ performance, and about why you own the investments you do, the more likely you are to make the right moves — and the less likely you’ll be to make hasty and unwise decisions. • Keep your focus on the long term. As an investor, you need to look past those events — such as natural disasters, recession fears and political instability abroad — that may STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 33.67 -.25 AT&T 34.98 -.49 BP PLC 37.81 -2.43 CMS Energy Corp 23.16 -.59 Coca-Cola Co 75.08 -.66 Eaton 37.41 -2.49 Family Dollar Stores 70.52 -1.93 Fifth Third Bancorp 12.87 -.26 Flowserve CP 108.61 -1.43 Ford Motor Co. 10.01 -.55 General Mills 38.15 -.65 General Motors 19.85 -1.89 Intel Corp. 26.01 -1.50 Kellogg Co. 48.44 -1.16 McDonald’s Corp 89.10 -.50 Pfizer Inc. 22.42 -.29 Ralcorp 66.12 +.42 Sears Holding 55.28 +.84 Spartan Motors 4.92 +.11 Spartan Stores 17.20 -.64 Stryker 53.82 -1.37 TCF Financial 11.43 +.03 Walmart Stores 68.58 +.77 Gold $1,573.38 -46.00 Silver $27.12 -1.35 Dow Jones Average 12,534 -303 Volume on NYSE 668M -52M City of Hastings Position Available Assessing Assistant/Appraiser The City of Hastings is accepting applications for a part-time Assessing Assistant/Appraiser. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. The selected candidate will assist the City Assessor with field inspections, maintaining personal property records, preparing for Board of Review, processing Principle Residence exemptions and property transfer affidavits, updating maps using legal descriptions, as well as other clerical work. Must be proficient with computers and BS&A software. Wage range for this position is $13.22 - $17.33 per hour and does not include a fringe benefit package. Minimum of 15 hours per week with a possibility of additional hours. DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY. 2BR, 1.75B, 2 STORY, 1 CAR BUILT- IN GARAGE An application form and full job description are available upon request at City of Hastings, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. Questions regarding this position should be directed to Jackie Timmerman, City Assessor, 269-945-6002. DATE & TIME OF SALE: JULY 5, 2012 AT 1:00 PM PLACE OF SALE Barry County Courthouse 220 W. State Street Hastings, MI 49058 77568891 FOR INFO CONTACT: 800-349-5097 x 4500 Or USDA Rural Development 1035 E. Michigan Avenue Suite A Paw Paw, MI 49079 For future foreclosure sales and inventory properties access our website: www.resales.usda.gov Don’t take a vacation from investing Minimum requirements include a high school diploma or GED and a driver’s license valid in the State of Michigan. Minimum 1 year of practical experience working in the assessment administration field. Minimum of a Michigan Certified Assessing Officer (Level 1) is required. 12412 Oak Ridge Drive Plainwell, MI 49080 EDWARD JONES Jackie Timmerman City Assessor have noticeable short-term effects on the financial markets but little impact over the longer term. So instead of making investment decisions based on today’s headlines, think about what you want your financial picture to look like in 10, 20 or 30 years — and take the appropriate steps to help make that picture materialize. These steps include following a long-term, disciplined investment strategy that’s suitable for your individual needs, making adjustments as time goes on and working with a professional financial advisor who knows your situation and can help you make the right choices. • Keep looking for growth opportunities. To achieve your long-term goals, such as a comfortable retirement, you’ll need to own growth-oriented investments, such as stocks and other investments that contain equities. The percentage of your holdings devoted to stocks should be based on your risk tolerance, time horizon and proximity to retirement. But no matter what your situation, you want a portfolio that’s designed to help you meet your investment goals. • Keep relying on “hardworking” invest- ments. To help ensure your investments are working hard for you, choose those vehicles that can help you in multiple ways. For example, when you invest in a 401(k) or other employer-sponsored retirement plan, your money grows on a tax-deferred basis, which means it can accumulate faster than if it were placed in an investment on which you paid taxes every year. (Keep in mind that taxes are due upon withdrawal, and withdrawals prior to age 59_ may be subject to a 10% IRS penalty.) Plus, you typically fund your 401(k) with pretax dollars, so the more you put in each year, the lower your taxable income. Furthermore, with the choices available in your plan, you can create a good mix of investments. Enjoy your vacation this summer. But no matter what the season, don’t take a break from investing. Your efforts may pay off nicely for you in the future. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. Michigan Works hosting health care job fair Michigan Works recognizes the immediate need to fill jobs in the health care industry. To meet this demand, the Michigan Works Agencies serving Barry, Branch, Calhoun, Kalamazoo and St. Joseph counties are collaborating to host a health care job fair Tuesday and Wednesday, July 24 and 25. The health care job fair will be a unique, invitation-only, two-day event for job seekers interested in a career in the health care industry. Participating employers from area hospitals, nursing homes, in-home care agencies and other health care related businesses will be seeking to fill open positions such as certified nursing assistants, registered nurses, housekeeping and food service, as well as other positions related to health care. The first day’s activities are intended to prepare attendees for the job fair that will take place on the second day. Day 1 will include training on skills health care employers are looking for, job preview, resume critique and mock interviews. The job fair will take place the second day. Pre-registration is required for both employers and job seekers. The deadline to register for employers wishing to reserve a booth and job seekers interested in attending the event is July 18 by close of business. Job seekers wishing to register must bring their resume to any Michigan Works Service Center located within the five-county area (the local office is 535 W. Woodlawn, Hastings). Upon registration, potential candidates will be issued an admittance ticket for the first day of the event. Individuals will be required to attend and complete all of the first day’s sessions and activities in order to receive an invitation to attend the job fair the second day. For employers, there is no cost to participate; however, employers interested in a booth at the event must have current job openings available. To register, employers should call any of the Michigan Works Service Centers located within the five-county area and ask to speak to a business services representative (269-383-2536 or 269-6601438) or email miworks@upjohn.org or dmn@summitpointe.org. Michigan Works is a customer focused statewide workforce development system that prepares individuals for work. Assistance is available to employers and job seekers to ensure that employers are provided with a supply of skilled workers and individuals are provided with an opportunity to advance knowledge and skills to achieve economic self-sufficiency. Michigan Works receives funding from federal and state governments through Michigan’s Workforce Development Agency. More information about Michigan Works can be found online. Visit www.michpartners.org. Gus Macker to fill Hastings streets Saturday and Sunday The first Hastings Gus Macker 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament is expected to draw more than 600 participants and thousands of spectators to downtown Hastings Saturday and Sunday. The event has attracted 151 registered teams that will compete on 16 outdoor courts for nothing more than the thrill of competition and for age group and division trophies. Since it began as a driveway tournament between 18 friends in Lowell 38 years ago, the Gus Macker Tournament has gone viral. Both indoor and outdoor tournaments have been held in more than 75 cities nationwide and each year attract 200,000 players and 1.7 million spectators. Four-member teams pay a $132 fee and are bracketed according to a multiple criteria rating system that takes into account age, gender, size and talent. “A Gus Macker Tournament has been something that’s been in the back of my mind for a long time,” says Valerie Byrnes of the Barry County Chamber of Commerce, the event organizer, “but it was nothing I could undertake without some champions to help. “When Mike Brann approached me and told me how much he loved downtown Hastings as a possible tournament location, I immediately jumped on the idea.” A local organizing committee has been diligently at work lining up venues and equipment, sponsors and registration infrastructure. All will be on hand through the weekend to keep things running smoothly and working with National Macker staff members. Competition will begin at 8:30 a.m. Saturday and is scheduled to conclude in time for the first of several special weekend events, the popular Slam Dunk Contest. A prominent panel of community judges which usually heavily considers crowd interaction will award a $500 cash top prize to the winner. Several more special events will run during competition Saturday and Sunday including a three-point shootout contest, a free throw contest, and the Hot Shot Contest. All three will run on different courts simultaneously beginning Saturday from noon to 5:30 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. All three special events will be open to players and to the general public. Each of the contests will charge a $1 entry fee and will offer trophies and prize packages. Spectator admission to the tournament and all special events is free, as is parking, which will be directed to the former Felpausch parking lot, just east of the downtown area on Michigan Avenue, off Green Street (M-37). An opening ceremony will be held at 8 a.m. Saturday. Play runs from 8:30 a.m. until 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads 77568702 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 28, 2012 — Page 9 Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz revisited This is the 12th part of a series reprinting the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz promotion that ran in the Banner 60 years ago. An unidentified aerial photo of an area farm was pictured in the Banner each week, from Jan. 24 to July 17, 1952, and the owners of the mystery farms were featured in the paper the following week. The contest was sponsored by the Banner and 35 area merchants (listed in the April 12 edition of the Banner). ***** Hastings Banner, June 26, 1952 Lucky Farm has been in same family since 1866 A farm which has been in the same family since 1866 was the 24th to be pictured in the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz. The farm, located on Route 4, Hastings, in Section 13 of Baltimore Township, is owned by Mr. and Mrs. J. Orville Pursell. Orville was born on the farm Dec. 21, 1894, the son of Nathan and Agnes Pursell. The land first came into the family when Nathan’s father, Benjamin, and uncle, John, moved on to the 80 acres in 1866, before there was a road to the place. The brothers had to make a trail into their new holdings. When the first Pursells passed away, Nathan Pursell bought out the other heirs, and then when Nathan died in 1923, Orville bought out the other heirs. Orville’s mother died in 1938. Benjamin and John put up the first set of buildings. The Pursell barn now stands where the original homestead was, Benjamin’s house having been torn down. John’s house is still in use, but of course it has been enlarged and modernized so that it has all of the desired comforts – and TV. The Pursells operate a general farm, keeping a herd of Holstein cows from Wisconsin and five young cattle, 30 head of hogs and 300 chickens – including 200 California Grays, a new breed that looks like a barred rock chicken and lays a white egg. Using a four-year rotation, Pursell this year has put in nine acres of wheat, eight acres of corn, eight of oats and 10 of clover. The rest is in pasture. They also rent another 80 acres north of their place where they have 20 acres in wheat and use most of the rest for pasture land. Their basement-type, 32-by-44-foot stanchion barn has drinking cups and a large mow. They have a new cinder block chicken house. The Pursells had their last team of horses in 1943. Their power comes from a tractor and they have a combine and use a field chopper to fill the silo. Orville has missed only one year in 42 of filling silos. He uses corn silage. Attractive Highbank Creek flows across the back end of the farm. A pasture has a spring on one end and the creek on the other – an advantage for stock – and Orville often has lush pasture when others do not. However, the creek has gradually filled up below and has knocked him out of two fields that he can’t plant. The creek was dredged 48 years ago. Mrs. Pursell is the former Gertrude Reynolds, daughter of Delbert and Helen Reynolds. His mother resides on West Mill Street. The Pursells have one daughter, Mrs. Leon (Dora) Helmer, of Sparta, and two grandchildren. ***** Hastings Banner, July 5, 1952 Lucky Farm is another father and sons enterprise The 25th farm to be pictured in the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz is an enterprise worked by a father and two sons in which over 400 acres are being tilled to help feed America. The farm is owned by Mr. and Mrs. Carl Heise, Route 2, Woodland, located two miles west and a half-mile south of Woodland. The homestead’s site is on the original 80 acres purchased by Carl’s father and mother, the late Charles and Sophia Heise. Added to that is the 120 acres Carl purchased in 1930 from the Frank Schaibly estate, 110 acres on the south being rented from his sister Mrs. Charles Scofield; 120 acres rented on the north, and the Heise’s are also working 17 additional acres owned by Albert Reesor, Woodland Township supervisor. Carl was born April 14, 1893, in a log house on the homestead which is now a general farm. The Heises milk 20 cows of their 28 Holsteins and supply Grade A milk for the Grand Rapids market. They keep their own bull and have 300 White Rock chickens. Nearly all of their land is tractor land, but like many other good Barry County farms, the topography is slightly rolling. They have one hill on the place which is too steep for the practical use of machinery and on it several thousand pine trees have been planted. The Heise farm is one of the many cooperating with the Barry Soil Conservation District which supplied the trees. Carl and his sons, Charles, 25, and Arlen, 19, use a four-year rotation on the land. They have four fields which are a half-mile long — set up for work with the tractor. This year they have PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PARTIES PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a Public Hearing will be held by the Prairieville Township Planning Commission on July 18, 2012 at 7:00 P.M. at the Prairieville Township Hall, 10115 S. Norris Road, within the Township. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the item(s) to be considered at this public hearing include, in brief, the following: A request by Cindy Bosier, 12897 Turner Lane Plainwell, MI 49080 for a Special Land Use Permit for a home occupation that would consist of creating and selling of arts\crafts as well operating a graphic illustration business. The subject property is 12897 Turner Lane Plainwell, MI 49080 – 08-12-110-008-35 and is located in the R-2 zoning district. Such other and further matters as may properly come before the Planning Commission for this meeting. All interested persons are invited to be present or submit written comments on this matter(s) to the below Township office address. Prairieville Township will provide necessary auxiliary aids and services such as signers for the hearing impaired and audiotapes of printed materials being considered at the hearing upon five (5) days notice to the Prairieville Township Clerk. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Prairieville Township Clerk at the address or telephone number set forth below. Jim Stoneburner, Township Supervisor 77569043 62 acres in wheat (last year the average yield was 28 to 30 bushels), 80 acres in oats, 114 acres in corn and the remainder in hay, clover and pasture. Carl and the boys have much to be proud of on their farm, and their farm shop is of particular interest. They can do practically every repair job themselves, and even have a complete welding outfit. The shop is located in the 30-by50-foot tool shed. Carl is also proud of the fact that their silo erected in 1918 has been filled every year. They filled the silo a week before last with grass silage, which will be used for late summer feed. After the grass silage is fed out, they will refill with corn silage. The Heise farm now has about 160 rods of “living fence” – multiflora rose which Carl believes “will be a thing of beauty if it will survive our climate.” Carl said the heavy hedge has white blossoms adding to the beauty of the landscape. In addition to the major farm activities, they have a large garden and recently a garden tractor was purchased. Carl said the tractor is a bit heavy for Mrs. Heise to handle, so he and the boys will probably take over that chore. For 12 years, up until two years ago, the Heise farm was used for growing certified hybrid seed corn for the market. That project was halted because varieties they were growing were superceded by other varieties better grown for seed farther south. While dairying is not the major business on the farm, the Heises have a 38-by-54-foot basement-type barn with steel stanchions. The large 12-room house, built by Carl’s father in 1907, has everything one would desire in a home. The kitchen, however, isn’t quite what Mrs. Heise [the former Mildred Coats] desires and a remodeling project there is on the schedule. The premises are landscaped. Carl’s father also dug the well still being used, and Carl cannot remember of never having enough water. They have always taken the fresh water for granted. The Heises work hard nearly the year FEEDING HER CHICKENS – Mrs. J. [Gertrude] Orville Pursell, who with her husband, resides on the 24th farm pictured in the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz, was photographed by Leo Barth feeding her first flock of California Grays, a type that lays a white egg. One of Mrs. Pursell’s paying hobbies is taking care of her chickens on the farm in Section 13, Baltimore Township. The original photo is missing. An unreproducable photo shows Charles working in the shop. The cutlined read: FARM SHOW – Many Barry County farms boast fine farm shops, but few are better than the shop on the Carl Heise farm located two miles west and a half-mile south of Woodland. Charles Heise, 25, who works with his father and brother, Arlen, 19, on the farm, is pictured using a torch in repairing a piece of machinery. The forge at the right is hand-made. Its base is a driving wheel off a binder with a wagon wheel on top of it, the back is part of a barrel and the top of a chicken brooder farms the top of the forage. An old motorized blower supplies the air. The shop has a place for many tools, and the tools are in their place. – Photo by Barth. around, but Mr. and Mrs. Heise did find time for a month’s vacation in Florida last winter. In addition to their two sons, they have two daughters, Mrs. Al (Dorothy) Randall, of Grand Rapids and Miss Leona Heise, a secretary from a Lansing law firm. Carl was graduated from Hastings High in 1913 and Mrs. Heise was graduated in 1914. DNR urges caution with campfires, fireworks Near-drought conditions in some areas spark concerns As residents and out-of-state visitors prepare to camp, bike and hike throughout Michigan over the Fourth of July holiday, Michigan Department of Natural Resources officials warn that wildfire danger will vary greatly in different areas of the state and urge caution and common sense, accordingly, with fireworks and campfires. Summer heat and inconsistent rainfall in the past month have pushed parts of Michigan into emerging drought conditions in the south, while portions of the northern regions have received some beneficial moisture, temporarily moderating what has already been a severe fire season. So far this year, the DNR has responded to 339 fires that have burned a total of 23,122 acres, including the recent 21,069-acre Duck Lake Fire in the eastern Upper Peninsula. “Anytime the weather is consistently hot and dry during a holiday period, there is a potential for wildfires,” said Bill O’Neill, acting chief of the DNR’s Forest Resources Division, in a press release from the DNR issued June 27. “With so many visitors in the woodlands and campgrounds, the chances of a wildfire igniting greatly increase.” Forecasts from the National Weather Service back up the DNR’s concerns. Although a slight cold front is expected to move through Thursday night into Friday morning, with a chance of storms, the coverage and amounts will be limited. As of Wednesday, National Weather Service staff does not see a significant chance of beneficial rains through the next 10 days in Michigan. O’Neill urged Michigan citizens and visitors to be extremely careful when handling fireworks and outdoor fires. He offered the following reminders: • Remember that consumer fireworks that explode or fly into the air, when improperly used, are the cause of many wildfires each year. These types of fireworks can now be purchased in Michigan. • Be aware that fireworks will easily ignite grass or wooded areas and should only be lit in areas free of vegetation. • Understand that setting off fireworks on public property is prohibited without proper authorization. • Keep campfires small and do not leave them unattended at any time, for any reason. • Be certain all fires and grills are completely extinguished. Use plenty of water, stir and add more water until everything is wet and no steam is produced. • Turn over unburned pieces of wood left in a fire pit and wet the underside. • Soak unburned pieces of charcoal in a bucket of water before disposing of them. • Do not simply cover a campfire with soil. This is an inadequate way to put a fire out, disguises the heat smoldering beneath and often becomes a hazard if someone accidentally step in the coals. “We are heading into our toughest season, with prolonged periods of very warm to hot temperatures and minimal rainfall,” said O’Neill. “I am asking everyone who plans to be outdoors enjoying our beautiful state this summer to be vigilant about protecting it, too. Be smart, be safe and, please, be caretakers of Michigan’s outdoor spaces.” Those interested in following the status of dry conditions in Michigan and other parts of the country may check the National Drought Mitigation Center’s drought monitor website at http://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/. For more tips, guidelines and home-preparation suggestions for wildfire prevention, visit the DNR’s website www.michigan.gov/preventwildfires. CITY OF HASTINGS PUBLIC NOTICE ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 486 The undersigned, being the duly qualified and acting Clerk of the City of Hastings, Michigan, does hereby certify that Ordinance No. 486 TO AMEND CHAPTER 90 OF THE HASTINGS CODE OF 1970, AS AMENDED, BY AMENDING ARTICLE 11 SECTION 90-973 REGARDING WALL SIGNS IN THE B-1 AND B-2 ZONES. was adopted by the City Council of the City of Hastings at a regular meeting on the 25th of June 2012. A complete copy of this Ordinance is available for review at the office of the City Clerk at City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM until 5:00 PM. Thomas E. Emery City Clerk 77569045 HOPE TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Hope Township Planning Commission will conduct a supplementary public hearing upon the following described matters on Thursday, July 19, 2012 at 7:00 PM at the Hope Township Offices at 5463 South M-43 Highway: 1. Ms. Amy Henney has submitted an application to amend a special exception use permit for a private camp located on Red Oak Trail, on land with the property tax ID number 07-009-006-55. The applicant is seeking to expand the private camp from 4 campers to 10 campers. Private camps are a permitted special exception use in the AR, Agricultural Residential District, per Section 17.2, C of the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance. Written comments will be received from any interested persons concerning the foregoing by the Hope Township Clerk at the Hope Township Offices at any time during regular business hours up to the date of the hearing and may further be received by the Planning Commission at the hearing. Anyone interested in reviewing the application submittal, the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance, or other information in connection with the request may do so at the Hope Township Offices during regular business hours and may further examine the same at the public hearing. The Township of Hope will provide necessary auxiliary aides and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed material being considered at the hearing, to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon four (4) days notice to the Hope Township Clerk. Hope Township 5463 South M-43 Highway Hastings, MI 49058 269.948.2464 77568971 �Page 10 — Thursday, June 28, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Daryl L Brodbeck, an unmarried man to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc as nominee for Polaris Home Funding Corp its successors and assigns , Mortgagee, dated June 12, 2008 and recorded June 30, 2008 in Instrument # 20080630-0006729 and corrected by Affidavit recorded November 30, 2009 in Instrument # 200911300011519 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: CitiMortgage, Inc, by assignment dated November 12, 2009 and recorded November 18, 2009 in Instrument # 200911180011265 and corrected by Affidavit recorded December 7, 2009 in Instrument # 200912070011776 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-Two Thousand Seven Hundred Seventy-Two Dollars and Twenty-Nine Cents ($162,772.29) including interest 5.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on July 5, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Southeast corner of section 1, Town 4 North, Range 8 West, Carlton Township, Barry County, Michigan, thence North along the East line of said section 2105 Feet to the place of beginning; thence West 725 Feet; thence North 430 Feet; thence East 725 Feet to the East line of said section; thence South along said east line 430 Feet to the place of beginning Commonly known as 7451 Cunningham Road, Lake Odessa MI 48849 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 6/07/2012 CitiMortgage, Inc, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-61931 (06-07)(06-28) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Gary W. Ellis and Nancy A. Ellis, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 1, 2008, and recorded on April 17, 2008 in instrument 200804170004189, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Two Thousand Five Hundred Ninety-Seven and 89/100 Dollars ($102,597.89). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 43, 44 and 45 of Steven's Wooded Acres, Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, according to the Plat thereof recorded in Liber 4 of Plats, Page 31 of Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 21, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #403975F01 77568746 (06-21)(07-12) 77568579 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage, made by EASTWOOD MANAGEMENT LLC, a Michigan Limited Liability Company, whose address is 1340 Forrester SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49508, as Mortgagor, to MERLIN T. SUTHERLAND, a married man, whose address is 6155 Oakmont Landing, Alto, Michigan 49302, as assigned in the Barry County Register of Deeds to Knowlco, LLC, whose address is 8379 White Pine, Middleville, Michigan 49333, and securing that certain Note between Scott T. Sutherland, as Debtor and Merlin T. Sutherland, as Creditor, dated July 13, 2001, and pursuant to that certain guarantee wherein Mortgagor, Eastwood Management LLC, guaranteed the Note mentioned above and secured the guarantee with Mortgage described above. There is claimed to be due thereon, at the date of this notice, for principal and interest, the sum of THIRTY THOUSAND AND 00/100-($30,000.00) Dollars with interest at the rate of 0%, as secured by the above-referenced mortgage as of this date. There also shall be attorneys fees, unpaid real estate taxes and costs. And no proceedings having been instituted to recover the debt now remaining secured by said Mortgage, or any part thereof, whereby the power of sale contained in said Mortgage has become operative; NOW, THEREFORE, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that by virtue of the Power of Sale contained in said Mortgages, and in pursuance of the statute in such case made and provided, the above said Mortgage, will be foreclosed by a sale of the parcels of the premises therein described, or so much thereof as may be necessary, at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse, County of Barry, Michigan, that being the place of holding the Circuit Court in and for said County on the 12th day of July, 2012, at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, of said day and said premises will be sold to pay the amount so as aforesaid then due on said Mortgage, together with interest payable at the rate of 0%, together with late fees, legal costs, attorneys fees and also any taxes and insurance that said Mortgagee does pay on or prior to the date of said sale together with interest thereon as though on an open account at the rate of 5% per annum; which said premises are described in said Mortgage, to-wit: PARCEL 1: LOTS 4, 5, 6, 7 AND 8, HASTINGS HEIGHTS, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF IN LIBER 3 OF PLATS, ON PAGE 41 AND THE VACATED ALLEY TO THE NORTH ADJACENT THERETO. PARCEL 2: COMMENCING AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF LOT 8, HASTINGS HEIGHTS, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF IN LIBER 3 OF PLATS, ON PAGE 41; THENCE NORTH 1° EAST, 33 FEET FOR THE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE CONTINUING NORTH 1° EAST, 160 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 88° 30’ EAST, 330 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 1° WEST, 160 FEET; THENCE NORTH 88° 30’ WEST 330 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. Commonly known as: 405 E Woodlawn, Hastings, MI 49058 The period of redemption will be six (6) months from date of sale. Dated: June 8, 2012 David H. Tripp, Attorney for Knowlco LLC Drafted by: David H. Tripp (P29290) Tripp & Tagg, Attorneys at Law 206 South Broadway Hastings, Michigan 49058 77568706 (269) 945-9585 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Robert W. Bishop, an unmarried man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Countrywide Home Loans, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 27, 2003 and recorded September 23, 2003 in Instrument Number 1113915, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Bank of America N.A. successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP F/K/A/ Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, LP by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Four Thousand One Hundred Twelve and 1/100 Dollars ($74,112.01) including interest at 5.625% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 07/19/2012 Said premises are located in the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 2 of R.I. Hendershott Addition, excepting the South 3 feet, First Addition to the City of Hastings, Formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded Plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: June 21, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 617.8191 77568902 (06-21)(07-12) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Michael W. Schultz and Bonnie L. Schultz, husband and wife, tenants by the entirety, original mortgagor(s), to Chase Bank USA, N.A., Mortgagee, dated November 14, 2006, and recorded on January 16, 2007 in instrument 1175069, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for J.P. Morgan Mortgage Acquisition Trust 2007-CH4, Asset Backed PassThrough Certificates, Series 2007-CH4 as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-Five Thousand Nine Hundred Twenty-Three and 94/100 Dollars ($165,923.94). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 26, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 26, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, Irving Township, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 28, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #385338F04 77569034 (06-28)(07-19) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE MORTGAGE SALE-Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a mortgage made by DONALD F. HERRICK and ANNE K. HERRICK, husband and wife, of 5885 LAMMERS RD., HASTINGS, MI 49058, Mortgagor(s) to MORTGAGE CENTER, LC, of 29621 NORTHWESTERN HIGHWAY, SOUTHFIELD, MI 48034, Mortgagee, dated AUGUST 22, 2003, and recorded on SEPTEMBER 3, 2003, in INSTRUMENT NO. 1112348 in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, and State of Michigan on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, for principal and interest, the sum of EIGHTY-NINE THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED SEVENTY-NINE AND 10/100THS ($89,579.10) DOLLARS with interest at 6.125% percent per annum, and attorney fees as provided for in said Mortgage and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said Mortgage or any part hereof, NOW, THEREFORE, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to the statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on JULY 5, 2012, at 1:00 P.M., local time, said Mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, inside the Barry County Circuit Court Building in the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan (that being the building where the Circuit Court for Barry County is held), of the premises described in said Mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due, as aforesaid, on said Mortgage, with interest thereon and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sum or sums which may be paid by the undersigned, necessary to protect its interest in the premises. Which said premises are described as follows: All the certain pieces or parcels of land situate in the TOWNSHIP OF HOPE, COUNTY OF BARRY, AND STATE OF MICHIGAN, to wit: BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE WEST LINE OF SECTION 11, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, DISTANT NORTH 390 FEET FROM THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF SECTION 11; THENCE NORTH 307 FEET, MORE OR LESS ALONG THE WEST LINE OF SECTION 11 TO A POINT 381 FEET SOUTH OF THE NORTH LINE OF THE SOUTH 49 ACRES OF THE WEST 3 / 4 OF THE SOUTHWEST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 11; THENCE EAST 360 FEET PARALLEL WITH SAID NORTH LINE: THENCE SOUTH 307 FEET MORE OR LESS TO A POINT 390 FEET NORTH OF THE SOUTH LINE OF SAID SECTION: THENCE WEST 360 FEET TO THE WEST SECTION LINE AND THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. SAID REAL ESTATE IS IMPROVED WITH, AMONG OTHER IMPROVEMENTS, A MANUFACTURED HOME UNIT*. BORROWERS ACKNOWLEDGE THAT THIS UNIT IS A PART OF THE REAL PROPERTY HEREBY SECURED BY THIS MORTGAGE. *1994 CENTURY MOBILE HOME, SERIAL NO. MY9534929ABF. MORE COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 5885 LAMMERS ROAD, HASTINGS, MI 49058 During the SIX (6) months immediately following the sale, the property may be redeemed, except that in the event that the property is determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241 a, the property may be redeemed during the thirty (30) days immediately following the sale. _____________________________ KENNETH C. BUTLER II (P 28477) ATTORNEY FOR MORTGAGEE 24525 HARPER AVENUE ST. CLAIR SHORES, MI 48080 (586) 777-0770 77568282 Dated: 05-31-12 (05-31)(06-28) Citizen help needed to fight synthetic drug battle Recently, 107 state representatives and 37 state senators voted in favor of a series of bills to help ban synthetic drugs in Michigan. That means all but one excused senator member voted in favor of banning this poison. Synthetic drugs, more commonly known as K2 and Spice, are viewed as a legal alternative to marijuana and other drugs. However, these drugs are far more toxic than the drugs they attempt to mimic and continue to plague communities across the state. These drugs cause users to hallucinate, perform violent acts and have untold long-term negative side effects and consequences. In June, a Farmington Hills teen allegedly murdered his father and severely injured his mother and brother for drug money while high on synthetic drugs. Unfortunately, this is only one example of the negative impact synthetic drugs have had on Michigan. Recently, I sponsored Public Act 182 which allows the Michigan Department of Community Health director to contact the Michigan Board of Pharmacy if a substance is causing imminent danger. The board is then required to hold a public hearing within 10 days to determine if the drug should be listed as a controlled substance. The police would be able to stop sales immediately. The board could then give the legislature up to a year, if necessary, to codify its decision into law. I also co-sponsored PA 183 of 2012 sponsored by Sen. Dave Hildenbrand, R-Lowell. This law would update Michigan’s law that lists prohibited chemical cocktails typically used by synthetic drug manufacturers and further empower local law enforcement to keep up with the ever-changing nature of these dangerous, addictive drugs. This legislation will serve as a valuable tool in our efforts to get these dangerous drugs off our streets. Law enforcement agencies needed this legislation. It will ensure that they are able to be as effective and efficient as possible as they work to remove these drugs from the marketplace. The days of simply changing the chemical makeup of a drug and putting it back on the shelves are over, and this legislation makes that crystal clear. Despite these new restrictions law enforcement officials need our help. I am urging all parents, grandparents and anyone who works with children, especially teenagers, to talk with them about the dangers of synthetic drugs. Explain to them that synthetic drugs are just as dangerous as illegal drugs and that the side effects can be even worse. Store owners have been given until July 1 to remove any and all synthetic drugs from their shelves. I wish they would do it immediately, but the deadline is quickly approaching. If anyone sees synthetic drugs on store shelves after the deadline, their first call should be to 855-MICH-TIP (855-642-4847). Synthetic drugs have taken their toll on Michigan for long enough, and I am hopeful that they will soon be a thing of the past. Sen. Rick Jones LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE WILLIAM AZKOUL P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. Default having been made in the conditions of a real estate mortgage made by Jeremy T. Moore, an unmarried man, of 2029 Rowe, NE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49505 and NPB Mortgage, LLC, a Michigan limited liability company, whose address is 3333 Deposit Drive, NE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49546, dated April 10, 2007 and recorded on April 11, 2001 in Instrument No. 1179091 of the Barry County Register of Deeds, which mortgage has been assigned to Northpointe Bank, a Michigan banking corporation, whose address is 3333 Deposit Drive, NE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49546, by virtue of an Assignment of Mortgage dated June 4, 2012, and recorded on June 11, 2012 with the Barry County Register of Deeds in Instrument No. 2012-001042 and upon which there is now claimed to be due for principal and interest the sum of Twenty One Thousand Two Hundred Seventy One Dollars and Forty Nine Cents ($21,271.49), which continues to accrue interest at the rate of 9.950%, and no suit or proceedings at law having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the mortgage, and the statute in such case made and provided, on August 2, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., the undersigned will sell at the East door of the Barry County Courthouse, Hastings, Michigan, that being the place of holding the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, at public venue to the highest bidder for the purpose of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid upon the Mortgage, together with the legal fees and charges of the sale, including attorney’s fees allowed by law, the premises in the mortgage located in Hope Township, Barry County, Michigan and which are described as follows: Lot 168 of Steven’s Wooded Acres No. 3, according to the plat thereof recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 84, Barry County Records. P.P. #08-07-315168-00 which has an address of 8382 Chain-O-Lakes Drive, Hastings, Michigan 49058. The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a in which case the redemption period shall be thirty (30) days from the date of such sale. Northpointe Bank 3333 Deposit Drive, NE Grand Rapids, MI 49546 DATED: June 22, 2012 Drafted By: William M. Azkoul (P40071) Attorney for Mortgagee 161 Ottawa Avenue, NW Suite 205-C Grand Rapids, MI 49503 77569027 (616) 458-1315 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Thomas F. Russell and Linda L. Russell Husband and Wife., original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 25, 2005, and recorded on August 12, 2005 in instrument 1151040, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Five Thousand Five Hundred Forty-One and 40/100 Dollars ($205,541.40). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 19 and the South 1/2 of Lot 18 of Hughes Park, according to the recorded plat thereof in Liber 2 of Plats, Page 57. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 21, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #404299F01 77568765 (06-21)(07-12) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 28, 2012 — Page 11 SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN Specialist answers questions about name changes, benefits, cards and more I’m getting married later this month and plan to change my name. What documents do I need to apply for a new Social Security card with my new name? To change your name for any reason in Social Security’s records, and on your Social Security card, you’ll need to provide proof of your U.S. citizenship (if you have not previously established it with us) or immigration status. You’ll need to show us evidence of your legal name change by showing us documentation of your old and new names. Such documents could include a court order for a name change, marriage certificate, divorce decree, or certificate of naturalization. Finally, you’ll need to show proof of identity. All documents submitted must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. We cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents. Visit our website, www.socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber, where you can get more information and fill out your application or call 800-772-1213. Recently, I was told I shouldn’t be carrying my Social Security card around. Is that true? We encourage you to keep your Social Security card at home in a safe place. Do not carry it with you unless you are taking it to a job interview or to someone who requires it. Identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in America, and the best way to avoid becoming a victim is to safeguard your card and number. To learn more, visit our Social Security number and card page at www.socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber. I just started my first job and my paycheck is less than I expected. Why am I paying for retirement benefits when I have a lifetime to live before retirement? Besides being required by law, you are securing your own financial future through the payment of Social Security and Medicare taxes. The taxes you pay now translate to a lifetime of protection, whether you retire or become disabled. When you die, your family (or future family) may be able to receive survivors benefits based on your work, as well. Aside from all the benefits in your own future, your Social Security and Medicare payments also help today’s retirees. To learn more, visit our website. My father receives Social Security retirement benefits, and I will be in charge of his estate when he dies. Should that occur, do I need to report his death to Social Security or will benefits automatically stop? When your father dies, please notify Social Security as soon as possible by calling 800772-1213. Another person, such as a spouse, may be eligible for survivors benefits based on his record. Also, we might be able to pay a one-time payment of $255 to help with funeral expenses. We suggest reading a copy of our online publication, “How Social Security Can Help You When a Family Member Dies,” at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10008.html. I have been getting Social Security disability benefits for many years. I’m about to hit my full retirement age. What will happen to my disability benefits? When you reach full retirement age, we will switch you from disability to retirement benefits. You won’t even notice the change because your benefit amount will stay the same. It’s just that when you reach retirement age, we consider you to be a retiree and not a disability beneficiary. To learn more, visit our website. My 15-year-old sister has been blind since birth. I think she should apply for Supplemental Security Income, but my parents think because she is a minor, they are responsible for her and she will not qualify. Who is right? To qualify for SSI, an individual must meet certain income and resource limits. Since your sister is a minor, some of your parents’ income and resources will determine whether your sister is eligible for SSI. Once your sister turns 18, their income and resources will not be considered when deciding her eligibility and payment amount. Tell your parents they can check at any Social Security office to see if your sister qualifies. To learn more, visit our website or call 800-772-1213. I’m on Supplemental Security Income and live with my two brothers in an apartment. LEGAL NOTICES IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Dennis J. Goit, a married man and Joyce A. Goit, his wife, to MCA Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated April 6, 1998 and recorded May 11, 1998 in Instrument Number 1011750, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by US Bank National Association, as Trustee, successor in interest to Wachovia Bank, National Association, as Trustee for GSMPS 2005-RP3 by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Two Thousand Four Hundred Eighty-Four and 79/100 Dollars ($82,484.79) including interest at 8% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 07/12/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The land referred to in this Commitment, situated in the County of Barry, Township of Thornapple, State of Michigan, is described as follows: That part of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 12, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, commencing at the Southeast corner of said Section; Thence South 89 degrees 48 minutes 23 seconds West, 334.56 feet along the South line of said Section; Thence North 00 degrees 15 minutes 25 seconds West, 422.00 feet parallel with the West line of the East 1/2 of said Southeast 1/4; Thence North 89 degrees 48 minutes 23 seconds East, 334.63 feet, thence South 00 degrees 14 minutes 50 seconds East 422.00 feet along the East line of said Section to the point of beginning. Subject to highway right-ofway over the Southerly 33 feet thereof and over the Easterly 33 feet thereof. Except that part of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 12, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, Thornapple Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Beginning at the Southeast corner of Section 12; Thence South 89 degrees 48 minutes 23 seconds West 334.56 feet along the South line of said Southeast 1/4; Thence North 00 degrees 15 minutes 25 seconds West 222.00 feet parallel with the West line of the East 1/2 of said Southeast 1/4; Thence North 89 degrees 48 minutes 23 seconds East 334.60 feet; Thence South 00 degrees 14 minutes 50 seconds East 222.00 feet along the East line of said Southeast 1/4 to the place of beginning. Subject to highway rights-of-way for Garbow Road and Robertson Road. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: June 14, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 2485022633 File No. 326.9185 77568697 (06-14)(07-05) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Timothy Voshell, a married man and Kimberly A Voshell, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 25, 2006, and recorded on January 31, 2006 in instrument 1159539, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-One Thousand Four Hundred Seventy-Four and 86/100 Dollars ($161,474.86). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Beginning at a point on the East-West 1/4 line of Section 28, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, distant North 89 degrees 34 minutes 20 seconds West 2383.60 feet from the East 1/4 corner of said Section 28; thence South 29 degrees 58 minutes 54 seconds East 416.11 feet; thence South 17 degrees 31 minutes 37 seconds East 34.09 feet; thence South 57 degrees 55 minutes 34 seconds West 502.99 feet to the South line of the North 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of said Section 28; thence North 89 degrees 40 minutes 28 seconds West 61.59 feet along said South line to the North-South 1/4 line of said Section 28; thence North 00 degrees 29 minutes 05 seconds East 661.68 feet to the center 1/4 corner of said Section 28; thence South 89 degrees 34 minutes 20 seconds East 284.00 feet along said East-West 1/4 line to the point of beginning. Together with and subject to a private Easement for ingress, egress and public utility purposes to be used in common with others, 66 feet wide; 33 feet East side of a centerline described as: Commencing at a point on the North-South 1/4 line of Section 28, Town 3 North, Range 8 West distant North 00 degrees 29 minutes 05 seconds East 1985.04 feet from the South 1/4 corner of said Section 28; thence South 89 degrees 40 minutes 28 seconds East 61.59 feet along the South line of the North 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of said Section 28 to the true point of beginning of said described centerline; thence North 57 degrees 55 minutes 34 seconds East 502.99 feet; thence North 87 degrees 01 minutes 05 seconds East 394.12 feet; thence South 69 degrees 19 minutes 18 seconds East 477.09 feet to the East line of the NOrth 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of said Section 28, and the end of said described centerline. The side lines of said Easement to be lengthened or shortened as appropriate to terminate at the South line and at the East line of the North 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of said Section 28. Also, the right of ingress and egress to and from Star School Road to the above described property across that portion of land described as: Commencing 660 feet South of the Northwest corner of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 28, Town 3 North, Range 8 West; thence East 660 feet; thence South 33 feet; thence East 3,300 feet; thence North 33 feet; thence West 3,267 feet; thence North 33 feet; thence West 693 feet; thence South 33 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 21, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #404164F01 (06-21)(07-12) 77568740 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by ERIC C. ANDERSON, a married man, THOMAS S. ANDERSON, a single man, and MARK ANDERSON, a married man, as joint tenants (collectively, "Mortgagor"), to SAND RIDGE BANK, a division of First Financial Bank NA, a national association, of 450 W. Lincoln Highway, Box 598, Schereville, Indiana 46375, dated September 9, 2005, which was duly recorded in the office of the Barry County, Michigan, Register of Deeds on September 13, 2005, as Instrument No. 1152665, as assigned to CHEMICAL BANK, a Michigan banking corporation, of 2185 Three Mile Road NW, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49544-1451 ("Mortgagee"), pursuant to a Branch Purchase and Assumption Agreement dated May 11, 2006, and a Bill of Sale dated August 18, 2006, as evidenced of record by an assignment of mortgage dated September 14, 2009, recorded September 29, 2009, as Instrument No. 200909290009655, Barry County Records, and as amended by a first amendment to mortgaged dated May 5, 2010, as recorded June 4, 2010, as Instrument No. 201006040005390, Barry County Records, given to Mortgagee by Mortgagor and also by SHERRY ANDERSON, who is the wife of Eric C. Anderson, and CHRISTINE ANDERSON, who is the wife of Mark Anderson (the “Mortgage”). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgagee is the owner of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Seventy Seven Thousand Five Hundred Six and 34/100 Dollars ($77,506.34). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 12th day of July, 2012, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: The East 1/2 of Lot 7 and the West 1/2 of Lot 8 of Block 2 of James Dunnings Addition to the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded Plat thereof. Together with all rights, easements, appurtenances, royalties, mineral rights, oil and gas rights, crops, timber, all diversion payments or third party payments made to crop producers, all water and riparian rights, wells, ditches, reservoirs, and water stock and all existing and future improvements, structures, fixtures, and replacements that may now, or at any time in the future be part of the real estate. Commonly known as: 721 W. Walnut Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 P.P. #08-55-035-016-00 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys the premises at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee for damaging the premises during the redemption period. Dated: June 14, 2012 CHEMICAL BANK Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2487 (616) 752-2000 8412749-1 77568679 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by ANDERSON PROPERTIES, a Michigan partnership ("Mortgagor"), to CHEMICAL BANK, a Michigan banking corporation, having an office at 333 E. Main Street, Midland, Michigan 48640-6511 (the "Mortgagee"), dated September 29, 2006, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on October 20, 2006, as Instrument No. 1171694 (the "Mortgage"). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgagee is the owner of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Sixty-Six Thousand Three Hundred Fifty and 52/100 Dollars ($66,350.52). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 12th day of July, 2012, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: Commencing at the Southwest corner of Lot 289 of the City, formerly Village, of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof and running thence West 20 rods for a point of beginning; thence North 8 rods; thence West 4 rods; thence South 8 rods; thence East 4 rods to point of beginning. Also (a) all privileges, appurtenances, improvements, buildings, tenements, hereditaments, easements, rights of way, licenses, riparian and littoral rights, mineral/oil/gas/water rights, rights to adjoining land, and all other rights belonging to the abovedescribed premises and which may hereafter attach thereto; (b) all rights to make divisions of such premises that are exempt from the platting requirements of the Michigan Land Division Act, as it shall be amended; (c) all rents, issues, profits, revenues, proceeds, accounts and general intangibles arising from or relating to the premises or any business conducted thereon by the Mortgagor including, without limitation, all rights, conferred by Act No. 210 of Michigan Public Act of 1953, as amended; (d) all equipment, other goods, and fixtures of every kind and nature whatsoever, now or hereafter located in or upon such premises or any part thereof and used or useable in connection with any present or future operation of such premises, whether now owned or hereafter acquired by the Mortgagor, including, without limitation, all heating, air conditioning, ventilation, lighting, incinerating and power equipment, engines, signs, security systems, fences, hoists, cranes, compressors, pipes, pumps, tanks, motors, plumbing, cleaning, fire prevention, fire extinguishing, apparatus, elevators, escalators, shades, awnings, screens, storm doors and windows, appliances, attached cabinets, partitions, carpeting, ground maintenance equipment. Commonly known as: 437 W. Mill Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 P.P. #08-55-001-107-00 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys the premises at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee for damaging the premises during the redemption period. Dated: June 14, 2012 CHEMICAL BANK Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2487 (616) 752-2000 77568684 8412856-1 My SSI payment is cut by one-third because the Social Security office says I don’t pay enough of the household expenses. How much of the expenses must I pay in order to get the full SSI rate? Under the rules of the program, you must be paying an equal share of the expenses. Because there are three of you in the household, you must pay one-third of the expenses. If you are not paying an equal share of the rent, utilities, groceries and other household expenses, your SSI payment must be reduced. To learn more, visit our website at www.socialsecurity.gov. I can’t find my Medicare card and I need a replacement. Do I need to go to the office? You can get your Medicare card replaced without leaving your home. Just go online to www.socialsecurity.gov/medicarecard and get your new Medicare card sent to your home. Simply fill out the requested information and you’ll get your new Medicare card within 30 days; it will be mailed to your address on record. If you need temporary proof of Medicare coverage, call toll-free 800-772-1213 to request a letter and you will receive it in the mail within 10 days. If you need immediate proof of your Medicare coverage, please visit your local Social Security office. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTENTION PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE: Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage by Jason L. Watson and Deena L. Watson, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Kellogg Community Federal Credit Union, Mortgagee, dated July 27, 2005, and recorded on August 22, 2005, in Instrument No. 1151437, in Barry County records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Sixty-six Thousand Two Hundred Fifty and 00/100 Dollars ($266,250.00), including interest at 5.0% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the lobby of the Calhoun County Justice Center, 161 E. Michigan Avenue, Battle Creek, Michigan 490144066, at 1 p.m. on Thursday, July 26, 2012. Said premises is situated in the Township of Hope, County of Barry, Michigan, and described as: The Southwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 23, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, excepting therefrom the South 726 feet thereof. PPN: 08-07-023-002-15 More Commonly Known As: 7807 N. Lammers Rd., Delton, MI 49046 The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be thirty (30) days from the date of such sale. Dated: June 11, 2012 For more information, please call: KELLOGG COMMUNITY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION Mark D. Hofstee (P66001) Bolhouse, Baar & Lefere, P.C. Grandville State Bank Building 3996 Chicago Drive SW Grandville MI 49418-1384 77568723 (616) 531-7711 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Rosemary Ann Davis, a married woman and Joel C. Davis, as to homestead rights only, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 9, 2007, and recorded on August 20, 2007 in instrument 20070820-0001071, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Chemical Bank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Five Thousand Five Hundred Fifty-Five and 96/100 Dollars ($105,555.96). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 12, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 11, Plat of Thornton Addition, Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats, Page 72. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 14, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #396291F01 77568669 (06-14)(07-05) �Page 12 — Thursday, June 28, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Claude Wierckz and Tina Wierckz, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated May 29, 2007, and recorded on June 11, 2007 in instrument 1181556, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Forty-Three Thousand Ninety and 01/100 Dollars ($143,090.01). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 26, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 23, Gackler's Payne Lake Plat, according to the plat recorded in Liber 5 of Plats Page 72 of Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 28, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #404805F01 77569015 (06-28)(07-19) SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by MARK D. HAMMOND, A SINGLE MAN, to UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, Mortgagee, dated May 30, 2008, and recorded on June 6, 2008, in Document No. 200806060005989, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Eight Thousand Two Hundred Fourteen Dollars and Thirty-One Cents ($128,214.31), including interest at 5.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on July 5, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: COMMENCING AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF SECTION 6, TOWN 1 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST; THENCE WEST ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SAID SECTION A DISTANCE OF 379.50 FEET; THENCE SOUTH AT RIGHT ANGLES TO SAID NORTH SECTION LINE, 178.20 FEET TO A POINT ON THE NORTHEASTERLY EXTENSION OF THE CENTERLINE OF PINE LAKE ROAD; THENCE SOUTH 60 DEGREES WEST ALONG SAID CENTERLINE, 1516.69 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 26 DEGREES 07 MINUTES 58 SECONDS EAST, 470.22 FEET FOR THE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE SOUTH 26 DEGREES 07 MINUTES 58 SECONDS EAST, 178.34 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 78 DEGREES 09 MINUTES 57 SECONDS WEST, 583.16 FEET TO THE CENTERLINE OF OAKRIDGE DRIVE THENCE NORTH 10 DEGREES 25 MINUTES 30 SECONDS WEST ALONG SAID CENTERLINE, 246.34 FEET; THENCE NORTH 61 DEGREES 42 MINUTES 15 SECONDS EAST, 170 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 83 DEGREES 42 MINUTES 41 SECONDS EAST, 161.94 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 59 DEGREES 20 MINUTES 03 SECONDS EAST, 91.73 FEET; THENCE NORTH 81 DEGREES 48 MINUTES 33 SECONDS EAST, 149 FEET TO POINT OF BEGINNING. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 USDA.000085 (06-07)(06-28) 77568589 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Robert F. Lancaster and Lisa Lancaster, husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Polaris Home Funding Corp. its successors or assigns., Mortgagee, dated April 28, 2008 and recorded May 1, 2008 in Instrument Number 20080501-0004710, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fourteen Thousand Six Hundred Eighty-Five and 94/100 Dollars ($114,685.94) including interest at 6% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 07/05/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the center of Section 31, Town 1 North, Range 10 West, Prairieville Township, Barry County, Michigan, thence South 89 degrees 56 minutes 00 seconds East, 498.56 feet along the East and West quarter line of said Section 31, thence South 00 degrees 33 minutes 00 seconds East, 774.00 feet parallel with the North and South quarter line of said section to the point of beginning; thence South 89 degrees 56 minutes 00 seconds East, 175.00 feet parallel with said East and West quarter line; thence South 03 degrees 11 minutes 48 seconds East, 413.44 feet tot he Northerly line of Highway M-89; thence Northwesterly along said Northerly line, 205.41 feet along the arc of a curve to the left having a radius of 1959.86 feet and a chord bearing of North 71 degrees 30 minutes 21 seconds West, 205.32 feet; thence North 00 degrees 33 minutes 00 seconds West 347.89 feet parallel with said North and South quarter line to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: June 7, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 2485022633 File No. 682.2314 (06-07)(06-28) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Keith McNett & Lisa McNett, Husband and Wife to Ameriquest Mortgage Company, Mortgagee, dated July 7, 2004 and recorded August 5, 2004 in Instrument # 1131965 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned through mesne assignments to:Household Finance Corporation III, by assignment dated May 1, 2012 and recorded May 2, 2012 in Instrument # 201205020005138 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fifty-One Thousand Seven Hundred Eleven Dollars and Sixteen Cents ($151,711.16) including interest 8.15% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on July 19, 2012 Said premises are situated in City of Delton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the West one-quarter post of Section 28, Town 2 North, Range 9 West; thence South 89 degrees 56 minutes 14 seconds East 1214.40 feet along the East and West one-quarter line of said Section 28; thence South 02 degrees 54 minutes 51 seconds West 233.04 feet; thence South 89 degrees 56 minutes 14 seconds East 220.00 feet to the true point of beginning; thence South 89 degrees 56 minutes 14 seconds East 373.08 feet; thence South 52 degrees 20 minutes 58 seconds West 364.29 feet; thence North 60 degrees 26 minutes 18 seconds West 35.79; thence North 14 degrees 36 minutes 45 seconds West 212.14 feet to the point of beginning. Together with a private easement for ingress and egress and public utility purposes, 66 feet wide, described as: Beginning at a point on the East and West onequarter line of Section 28, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, distant South 89 degrees 56 minutes 14 seconds East 2094.40 feet from the West one-quarter post of said section; thence South 89 degrees 56 minutes 14 seconds East 66.08 feet along said one-quarter line; thence South 02 degrees 54 minutes 51 seconds West 881.91 feet; thence North 75 degrees 47 minutes 45 seconds West 67.30 feet; thence North 02 degrees 54 minutes 51 seconds East 865.45 feet to the point of beginning. Also, together with and subject to a private easement for ingress, egress, and public utility purposes, 66 feet wide described as: Commencing at the West onequarter post of Section 20, Town 2 North, Range 9 West; thence South 89 degrees 56 minutes 14 seconds East 2094.40 feet along the East and West one-quarter line of said Section 28; thence South 02 degrees 54 minutes 51 seconds West 233.04 feet to the true point of beginning; thence South 02 degrees 54 minutes 51 seconds West 66.08 feet; thence North 89 degrees 56 minutes 14 seconds West 314.09 feet; thence South 52 degrees 20 minutes 58 seconds West 283.59 feet; thence South 06 degrees 46 minutes 20 seconds West 206.14 feet; thence North 83 degrees 13 minutes 40 seconds West 66.00 feet; thence North 06 degrees 46 minutes 20 seconds East, 233.86 feet; thence North 52 degrees 20 minutes 58 seconds East 335.48 feet; thence South 89 degrees 56 minutes 14 seconds East 340.87 feet to the point of beginning. Commonly known as 4727 Walldorff Rd, Delton MI 49046 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 6/21/2012 Household Finance Corporation III, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File 77568912 No: 12-62955 (06-21)(07-12) 77568532 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Christine Danis, an unmarried woman, original mortgagor(s), to Argent Mortgage Company, LLC, Mortgagee, dated August 27, 2004, and recorded on September 7, 2004 in instrument 1133565, in Barry county records, Michigan, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Trustee for Park Place Securities, Inc.Asset-Backed PassThrough Certificates, Series 2005-WCH1 as assignee, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Five Thousand Seven Hundred Eighty-Nine and 89/100 Dollars ($135,789.89). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Beginning at a point on the East line of the West 1/2 of the West 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 24, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, distant South 330 feet from the Northeast corner thereof; thence South along said East line 208.71 feet; thence West at right angles with said East line 308.71 feet; thence North 208.71 feet; thence East 308.71 feet to the Place of Beginning. Toegther with a private non-exclusive easement for ingress, egress and public untilities over the East 33 feet of the North 330 feet of said West 1/2 of the West 1/2 of the West 1/2 of Section 24, also a temporary easement for ingress and egress over the existing gravel driveway located partially on the West 25 feet of the North 400 feet of the East 1/2 of the West 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4 of said Section 24. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 21, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #395495F01 77568758 (06-21)(07-12) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Jeffrey Lynn Smith, a single man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated August 4, 2011 and recorded August 10, 2011 in Instrument Number 201108100007599, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Wells Fargo Bank, NA by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fourteen Thousand Nine Hundred ThirtyFour and 84/100 Dollars ($114,934.84) including interest at 4.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 07/05/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Maple Grove, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 39 and 40, Fuller Heights, according to the Plat thereof recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 49, Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: June 7, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 326.8902 77568584 (06-07)(06-28) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Forrest J. Bagley Jr, and Kimberly L. Bagley, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Plus of America Corporation, Mortgagee, dated June 11, 2001, and recorded on June 19, 2001 in instrument 1061708, and assigned by mesne assignments to CitiMortgage, Inc. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twelve Thousand Five Hundred Six and 56/100 Dollars ($112,506.56). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 26, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land in the Northeast fractional 1/4 of Section 6, Town 1 North, Range 10 West, Prairieville Township, Barry County, Michigan, and is more particularly described as follows: Commencing at the Northeast corner of Section 6, Town 1 North, Range 10 West; thence South 2 degrees 11 minutes 53 seconds East along the East line of said Section, 132.50 feet to the place of beginning of this description; thence continuing South 2 degrees 11 minutes 53 seconds East along said line, 103.71 feet; thence South 72 degrees 13 minutes 35 seconds West, a distance of 120.78 feet; thence North 2 degrees 11 minutes 53 West parallel with the said East line, a distance of 106.75 feet to the Southerly Right-of-Way of Pine Lake Road, thence along a curve to the right with a radius of 2864.79 feet, subtended by a chord of North 73 degrees 37 minutes 36 seconds East, a distance of 120.00 feet and an arc of 102.01 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 28, 2012 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #398539F01 77569010 (06-28)(07-19) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Nancy Lucas, single and Hans Terrell, single joint tenants with full rights of survivorship, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated September 21, 2005, and recorded on September 29, 2005 in instrument 1153583, and assigned by said Mortgagee to CitiMortgage, Inc. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirteen Thousand Six Hundred Twenty-Seven and 42/100 Dollars ($113,627.42). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The part of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 16, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, described as: Commencing at the West 1/4 corner of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East, 376.70 feet along the West line of the Southwest 1/4 of said Section to a point North 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West 940.00 feet the from Southwest corner of the Northwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of said Section; thence South 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East 600.00 feet; thence South 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East 300.00 feet; thence North 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West 600.00 feet; thence North 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West 300.00 feet along the West line of the Southwest 1/4 of said Section to the place of beginning. he redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 21, 2012 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #404038F01 77568855 (06-21)(07-12) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Patrick W. Pribe, An unmarried man, original mortgagor(s), to Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Mortgagee, dated September 24, 2004, and recorded on October 18, 2004 in instrument 1135674, and assigned by said Mortgagee to US Bank National Association, as Trustee for Citigroup Mortgage Loan Trust Inc., Asset-Backed Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2005-WF1 as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Nine Thousand Three Hundred Thirty-Two and 54/100 Dollars ($109,332.54). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 26, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land in the Southwest 1/4 of section 21, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, described as: Beginning at a point on the West line of Section 21 which lies due North 1087.50 feet from the Southwest corner of said Section 21; thence due North 150 feet; thence South 89 degrees 50 minutes East 160 feet; thence due South 150 feet; thence North 89 degrees 50 minutes West 160 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 28, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #402872F01 77569005 (06-28)(07-19) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Sylvia Smith, a single person, original mortgagor(s), to Homeloan USA Corporation, Mortgagee, dated May 14, 2004, and recorded on May 19, 2004 in instrument 1127867, in Barry county records, Michigan, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Six Thousand Four Hundred TwentyEight and 32/100 Dollars ($86,428.32). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 26, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That part of Lot 21 of Supervisor Chase's Addition No. 2 to the City of Hastings according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 2, described as: Commencing at the Southeast corner of Lot 20 of said Plat; thence East 86.5 Feet to the West side of Church Street if extended; thence North 135.5 Feet; thence West 86.5 Feet to a Point North of the Place of Beginning; thence South to the Place of Beginning. Excepting therefrom the South 13 Feet conveyed to the City of Hastings as part of Amy Street. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 28, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #407369F01 77569022 (06-28)(07-19) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 28, 2012 — Page 13 LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by David Irwin, unmarried, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated November 27, 2009, and recorded on December 16, 2009 in instrument 200912160012078, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Forty-One Thousand Seven Hundred Sixty and 88/100 Dollars ($141,760.88). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 22, Fiarview Estates No. 1, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats, Page The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 21, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #403949F01 77568860 (06-21)(07-12) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Daniel J. Kellogg and Julie A. Kellogg Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 25, 2006, and recorded on September 15, 2006 in instrument 1170072, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Seventeen Thousand Five Hundred Ninety-Eight and 47/100 Dollars ($217,598.47). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the southeast corner of West 20 acres of the East 30 acres of the South 1/2 of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 26, Town 3 North, Range 7 West, village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, for a place of beginning; thence West 245.5 feet; thence North parallel with the East line of said West 20 acres of said East 30 acres 574 feet; thence West 414.5 feet, more or less, to the West line of said West 20 acres of said East 30 acres; thence North 746 feet, more of less, to the North line of the South 1/2 of the Southeast 1/4 of said Section 26; thence East 660 feet, more or less, to the East line of said West 20 acres of said East 30 acres; thence South along said East line 1320 feet, more or less, to the place of beginning. Subject to a roadway over the Southerly 33 feet thereof. Also that part of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 26, Town 3 North, Range 7 West, Castleton Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as; Commencing at the Southeast corner of said Section 26 and running West along the South line of said Section 26, a distance of 574.14 feet to a point lying 245.50 feet West of the Southeast corner of the West 20 acres of the East 30 acres of the South 1/2 of said Southeast 1/4; thence run North 00 01 minutes 09 seconds East, parallel with the East line of said West 20 acres, a distance of 374.00 feet to the point of beginning of the following described parcel of land; thence continuing North 00 01 minutes 09 seconds East, parallel with the said East line of the West 20 acres a distance of 200.00 feet; thence run West Parallel with the said South Section line a distance of 50.00 feet; thence run South 00 01 minutes 09 seconds West parallel with the said East line of the West 20 acres a distance of 200.00 feet; thence run East parallel with the said South Section line a distance of 50.00 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 21, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #398034F01 77568818 (06-21)(07-12) STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY PUBLICATION OF NOTICE OF HEARING FILE NO. 2012-26113-NC In the matter of Aryanna Katelyn Profilio. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS including: Christopher Lee Profilio whose address(es) are unknown and whose interest in the matter may be barred or affected by the following: TAKE NOTICE: A hearing will be held on July 17, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. at 206 W. Court Street, Hastings, MI 49058 before Judge William M. Doherty P41960 for the following purpose: Petition to Change Name from Aryanna Katelyn Profilio to Aryanna Katelyn Hanson. Date: 06/25/2012 Brad A. Gee P69239 607 N. Broadway Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 945-3495 Katherine Marie Hanson 14870 Waubascon Rd. Bellevue, MI 49021 77569039 (269) 317-2943 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Danney Ellard, also known as Dan Ellard, a single man, original mortgagor(s), to Credit Union Mortgage Company, Mortgagee, dated July 25, 2002, and recorded on July 30, 2002 in instrument 1084628, and assigned by mesne assignments to MidFirst Bank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Three Thousand Five Hundred Seventy-Three and 25/100 Dollars ($73,573.25). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 5, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 2, 3, 4 and 5 of Reese Acres, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats, on Page 73 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 7, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #379423F02 77568360 (06-07)(06-28) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Lucas Beroza, an unmarried man and Katrina Harter, an unmarried woman and Steven Beroza, an unmarried man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 17, 2007, and recorded on August 20, 2007 in instrument 20070820-0001078, and assigned by said Mortgagee to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Six Thousand Three Hundred Forty-Seven and 06/100 Dollars ($76,347.06). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 26, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at a point in the Center of the Highway 20 rods West of the Southeast corner of the West 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 28, Town 1 North, Range 9 West; thence North 10 rods thence West 10 rods; thence South 10 rods; thence East 10 rods to the place of beginning, Barry Township, Barry County, Michigan The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 28, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #347971F02 77567817 (06-28)(07-19) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Kyle C. Rickert, and, Stacia Rickert, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 4, 2008, and recorded on April 14, 2008 in instrument 20080414-0004028, and assigned by said Mortgagee to SunTrust Mortgage, Inc. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Three Thousand Four Hundred Forty-Four and 37/100 Dollars ($133,444.37). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 12, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 284,285,286,287 and 304, AL-GON-QUIN Lake Resort Properties Unit No. 2, as recorded in Liber 2, Page 63 of Plats, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 14, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #390522F01 77568674 (06-14)(07-05) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Bonnie M. Sofia, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 3, 2002, and recorded on July 9, 2002 in instrument 1083477, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Six Thousand Eight Hundred Ten and 98/100 Dollars ($96,810.98). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 5, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 64 of Lakewood Estates, according to the recorded plat thereof as recorded in Liber 4 of plats on Page 19, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 7, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #150768F02 (06-07)(06-28 77568537 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by James P. Shields, single, original mortgagor(s), to Household Finance Corporation III, Mortgagee, dated August 16, 2006, and recorded on August 21, 2006 in instrument 1168918, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Three Thousand Two Hundred Forty-Two and 38/100 Dollars ($203,242.38). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 5, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 105 and 106 of the plat of Steven's Wooded Acres No. 2 according to the plat thereof recorded in Liber 4 of Plats, Page 60, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 7, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #326802F02 77568544 (06-07)(06-28) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Diana Marie Peters, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 10, 2003, and recorded on January 22, 2003 in instrument 1096042, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Flagstar Bank, FSB as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Fifty-One Thousand Seven Hundred Twelve and 30/100 Dollars ($51,712.30). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 69, Lynden Johncock Plat #1, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 93. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 21, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #402486F01 77568865 (06-21)(07-12) STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 2012-26104-DE Estate of ALTA L. DATISH. Date of Birth: February 10, 1950. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, ALTA L. DATISH, died April 14, 2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to MICHAEL DATISH, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 WEST COURT, SUITE 302, HASTINGS, MI 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative, within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. NATHAN E. TAGG P68894 206 SOUTH BROADWAY HASTINGS, MI 49058 (269) 948-2900 MICHAEL DATISH 222 SCRIBNER DELTON, MI 49046 77569020 (269) 623-2163 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-26121-DE Estate of Eric A. Send, Deceased. Date of birth: 01/21/1951. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Eric A. Send, who lived at 3355 Johnson Road, Middleville, Michigan died 04/25/2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to John Send, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West Court Street, Suite 302, Hastings and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 06/14/2012 Robert L. Byington P27621 222 West Apple Street, P.O. Box 248 Hastings, Michigan 49058 (269) 945-9557 John Send 10264 Bever Road Delton, Michigan 49046 77568968 (269) 664-5732 FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Jerry L. Allen and Dawn I. Allen, Husband and Wife to Member First Mortgage, LLC, Mortgagee, dated March 26, 2010 and recorded April 2, 2010 in Instrument # 201004020003501 Barry County Records, Michigan on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred One Thousand Three Hundred Sixty-Six Dollars and Nine Cents ($101,366.09) including interest 8% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on July 19, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Baltimore, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 63 and 64 of the Plat of Long Beach, according to the recorded Plat thereof, also the Easterly portion of Lots 27 and 28 of said Plat described as: Beginning at the Northeast corner of Lot 27 of the Plat of Long Beach, thence Westerly 39.51 feet along the Northerly line of said Lot 27, thence Southerly to a point on the Southerly line of Lot 28 of said Plat which is 60.25 feet Westerly along the Southerly line of said Lot 28 from the Southeasterly corner thereof, thence Easterly 60.25 feet Easterly along Southerly line of said Lot 28 from the Southeasterly corner thereof, thence Northerly along Easterly line of said Lots 27 and 28, 106 feet to place of beginning; EXCEPT the South 40 feet of Lot 63 and except the South 25 feet of Lot 28, being part of the Southeast Quarter of Section 33, Town 2 North, Range 8 West. Commonly known as 9616 S. M 37 Hwy, Dowling MI 49050 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 6/21/2012 Member First Mortgage, LLC Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File 77568907 No: 12-63367 (06-21)(07-12) See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits �Page 14 — Thursday, June 28, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Chad Curtis bound over to circuit court by David DeDecker Staff Writer Enough probable cause was presented by the Barry County Prosecutor’s Office Friday, June 22, to bind Chad Curtis over to circuit court. Curtis, a former Major League Baseball player and 1999 World Series standout, was charged on two charges of criminal sexual conduct, second degree; one count of criminal sexual conduct, third degree; and two charges of criminal sexual conduct, fourth degree. Barry County District Court Judge Michael Schipper found enough cause to bind Curtis over on all five counts. In closed court, Schipper heard testimony from two teenage girls who testified Curtis was an authority figure, a substitute teacher and weight training volunteer, who performed sports therapy and massage for injuries the girls had sustained. Earlier in the school year, Curtis was volunteering with athletes at Lakewood Public Schools and substitute teaching. He was contracted to take over as the head Vikings varsity football coach in the fall. When presenting his ruling to a re-opened courtroom, Schipper said 16-year-old alleged victim told the court Curtis asked her to remove clothing, and during a massage for a hip flexor injury had lifted her sports bra, massaging her breasts and then penetrated her digitally. The other witness, a 15-years-old, said Curtis had massaged her upper thigh, groin area and buttocks when she had a knee injury. Schipper also said the room where the alleged acts occurred automatically locked and had no windows. He said Curtis was clearly an authority figure with “unfettered access” to the school and could come and go as he pleased. Bond remains at 10 percent of $250,000 with conditions including no contact with anyone under 17 without adult supervision and no coaching of sports programs. Defense counsel asked the court if Curtis could continue to coach his 12-year-old son’s travel baseball team and presented a letter by Terpening offered plea deal; does not respond by David DeDecker Staff Writer Michael Terpening, former director of EARTH Services in Bellevue facing 13 alleged charges of acts with teenage boys, was again in Barry County Circuit Court June 22. Defense attorney Thomas Schaeffer and Michigan Assistant Attorney General Angela Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 For Sale Card of Thanks Business Services AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 THE FAMILY OF Tari L. Sherk wants to say thank you! Thank you to all of our wonderful family and friends. You've stood by us since the beginning and showered us with your concern, support and love. Thank you for all the phone calls, e-mails, messages, visits, cards, donations, plants, flowers, lunches, dinners, baked goods and of course all the hugs and thank you for joining us for Tari’s remembrance luncheon, you came from near and far. What a beautiful tribute it was for her. Thank you Mercy Ambulance, Spectrum Butterworth E. R., Lena Meijer’s Heart Center, I.C.U., Neuroscience Oncology, 4th & 5th floors, variety of doctors, nurses, aides, transporters and staff. Most of you were wonderful! Thank you to the Lemmon Holton Cancer Pavilion, Dr. Fabrizio, Dr. Yost, the radiologists and staff. Thank you Girrbach Funeral Home, Ray, Deb and Tom for taking care of us and Tari at the end of her journey here. You’re the best! Thank you Hastings Moose Lodge, Pat and Bob Crans and crew for hosting and preparing the luncheon. What an awesome group of people you are! Last but not least, thank you all for being a part of Tari’s life and loving her. Her new journey has begun. No longer can we see or hug her, but she lives on in our hearts forever! Jeff Henning Mitchell, Briana, Alexis and Anekin, Brandon, April and Gracie Aaron & Jane Sherk Brenda, Jake, Rob, Lisa and Alex BASEMENT WATERPROOFING: PROFESSIONAL BASEMENT SERVICES waterproofing, crack repair, mold remediation. Local/licensed. Free estimates. (517)290-5556. DON’T PAY HIGH heating bills. Eliminate them with an Outdoor Wood Furnace from Central Boiler. D-2 Outdoor Wood Boilers. (616)877-4081. ELIMINATE RISING FUEL COST- Clean, safe & efficient wood heat. Central boiler Classic Outdoor Wood Furnace. Heats multiple buildings. Call SOS your “Stocking Dealer” Dutton, MI (616)554-8669 or (616)915-5061. Real Estate ACREAGE: 70 ACRES rolling, wooded and beautiful. Great location to build custom home or cabin. Great price $280,000. Call Bill Sikkema 269-488-0576, Prudential Preferred, Realtors. Lawn & Garden AQUATIC PLANTS: OUR Lotus & Water Lilies are ready! Also Koi & Goldfish, pumps, filters & pond supplies. APOLS WATER GARDENS, 9340 Kalamazoo, Caledonia MI. (616)6981030 M-F 9:00-5:30, Sat 9:002:00. National Ads THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is deceptive, fraudulent or might otherwise violate law or accepted standards of taste. However, this publication does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the quality of goods or services advertised. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made in any advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you ask for money in advance of delivery of goods or services advertised. children’s parents asking Curtis to remain as coach. Schipper denied the request, citing the team was an elite travel team with games in Tennessee, Ohio and New York. The judge said he could not in good conscience allow Curtis to go unrestricted where children are involved. “I will always err on the side of protecting kids,” said Schipper. Curtis has called Middleville home, and is a former Caledonia teacher/coach. He was allegedly fired from his athletic director position at NorthPointe Christian High School in Grand Rapids in 2009 with no public explanation. He is no longer employed with Lakewood schools. Help Wanted 25 DRIVER TRAINEES Needed NOW! Become a driver for Schneider National! Earn $750 per week! No experience needed! Local CDL Training! Job ready in 15 days! 1-877-649-2697. ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. Immediate Openings RN/LPN PRIVATE DUTY Nashville, Marshall, Springport, Jackson Trach / Vent Experience Preferred or fax to: 517-394-7716 06785554 recruiter@optimalstaffing.com Pets GOLDEN RETRIEVER PUPS: English cream white w/blonde, beautiful. AKC, champion sired, Certified hips, heart, elbows & eyes. 3 year health guarantee. (269)205-4443 Recreation WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are interested in leasing acreage for this years deer season. Call (269)795-3049 Wanted BUYING OLD POCKET watches, old wind up wrist watches, working or not working. Call George (616)916-8271 BUYING WWII, WWI, Civil War uniforms, weapons, helmets, bayonets, German, Japanese, and American. Call George (616)916-8271 Garage Sale 717 W. GREEN ST. FRI. 6/29 THRU SUN 7/1 9am5pm. MOVING! HD leather, china, crystal, kitchenware, sewing machine, washing machine, women’s purses, shoes, dresses, wedding dress, bench tops, books all ages, kids toys, much more last chance! LARGE GIRL SCOUT YARD & BAKE SALE: Support our local Girl Scout Troops This Thursday 6/28, Friday 6/29, 9am-5pm. 1090 E. Sager Rd. 4mi. south of Hastings off M-37 Estate Sale FT/PT Days/Nights Please send resume to: BOOKKEEPING SERVICES Personal * Self-Employed * Small Business Payroll * Billing Accounts Receivable * Accounts Payable General Ledger Weekly * Monthly * Quarterly * Annually Call today! (269)420-5714 PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 Povilaitis presented their legal motions to Judge Amy McDowell. One motion involved the mental health and medical records of three witnesses. Defense contended the records were needed to provide a thorough defense. Judge McDowell denied the review of records on two of the witnesses, citing privacy and relevancy issues, but will review a 2009 Child Protection Services report on the third witness to determine if the information is relevant to the case. A second motion involved alleged Facebook conversations between a witness and the defendant. The prosecution said the documents were contained on two digital CDs that were certified by Facebook’s official record keeper. The defense wanted the California-based certifier to testify at trial. McDowell said the expense of flying the witness in would be great, and she recommended testimony by phone. Other motions were called “premature” by the defense, including one in which the prosecution asked the court to prohibit the defense from asking an alleged victim about past sexual encounters. Similarly deemed premature by the defense was a motion to preclude any information from an alleged victim’s adoptive parents. Several more motions were made by the prosecution about Terpening’s alleged solicitations for sexual acts from employees. McDowell said many of the issues could be addressed at an evidentiary hearing and set a date of July 13 for the hearing. Povilaitis’ last piece of business was to present, on the record, a plea deal to the defendant. Reportedly, a letter of the plea deal was sent to the defense June 18. For pleading guilty to six of the charges, the other charges would be dropped and Terpening would be offered two to 15 years in prison, be a registered sex offender, receive counseling, relinquish his foster care license, and must never volunteer with children under 18. The defense did not respond to the offer at this time. Among the numerous civil and criminal charges against Terpening is also a criminal case involves alleged insurance fraud. Ignoring mail is big factor leading to foreclosures by Bonnie Mattson Staff Writer Free counseling, legal services and possible financial help may be available for families struggling to avoid foreclosure. According to the Michigan Foreclosure Task Force, more than 280,000 homes in Michigan have been foreclosed on since 2009. That number is expected to climb to about 327,00 by the end of the year, according to Neeta Delaney, co-director of the task force. “Homeowners have a much better chance of keeping their homes if they take advantage of available help and act promptly,” said Jim Buxton of Michigan State University Extension. “They are entitled to a 90-day window to stay in their homes if they work with a housing counselor and the lender.” Delaney encourages homeowners in trouble to communicate with their lenders. As soon as people become aware there may be trouble with mortgage payments, they should reach out to a certified foreclosure counselor, Delaney added. “Not opening the mail is a huge factor in people losing their homes,” said Delaney. According to Mary Townley, director of homeownership for the Michigan State Housing and Development Authority, the federal government allocated nearly $500 million for the Helping Michigan’s Hardest Hit Homeowners’ program. Financial assistance is available in many instances according to Buxton. “Our counselors have had a lot of success in bringing homeowners together with lenders and preventing foreclosures,” said Buxton. “We have excellent resources available, but it’s important for people to acknowledge their situation and take action.” For more information, call Michigan State University Extension 616-527-5357. POLICE BEAT Man finally stops after Taser deployment Hastings Police were called to a residence on East Walnut Street June 14 for reportedly intoxicated subjects fighting around 1:11 a.m. As officers neared the area, they learned the person causing most of the problem was leaving, headed out of town in a red Pontiac Firebird. Another officer passed the car, without headlines off, as it turned off of East Center onto East State Street, and noticed it bounce as it ran up over the curb. The car again went up onto the curb as the driver attempted to turn west onto East Walnut Street. As the driver attempted to back up, an additional patrol car arrived and blocked it from leaving. The 26-year-old Middleville driver reportedly showed signs of intoxication and had fresh injuries to his knee and his knuckles, which were bleeding. The driver attempted agility tests and after failing a portable breath test, he was arrested. He continued to act out while en route to jail, wrestling with police and staff at the jail. A Taser had to be used. He was then transported to the hospital where a blood sample was taken. Charging requests include operating while intoxicated, resisting police, assault and property damage for running into a cement retaining wall and tearing up a parking lot with his vehicle. The report was sent to the prosecutor’s office. A 20-year-old woman from Hastings was a passenger in the vehicle. She registered a blood alcohol level of .13 and was arrested as a minor in possession of alcohol by consumption. Nashville home left without copper pipe Deputies were called to a Maple Street residence in Nashville for a reported breaking and entering of an unoccupied residence June 15. Deputies were met by the Realtor who took them into the basement to show that all the copper piping had been removed. The woman said there appeared to be no damage to the entry doors. Nothing else seemed to be missing or damaged. A witness reported seeing two 30-ish white males enter the house a couple days earlier, but did not seen them leave the home. The case is inactive due to no leads. Denied entry, man goes through window Hastings Police were dispatched June 14 after 911 operators received a hang-up call from a residence on East State Road. While en route, the caller called back, saying everything was okay and officers did not need to respond. When officers arrived, they discovered a 19-year-old Hastings man was an unwanted subject and had forced his way into the home. He was still there. Further investigation revealed the caller and unwanted subject were arguing over the custody of a child. Reportedly, the occupant would not answer or open the door for him, so the man forced open a window to gain entry. He was arrested for trespassing and refusing to leave. The report has been sent to the prosecutor’s office. The man may be charged with the more serious charge of home invasion. Super drunk runs; doesn’t get far Hastings Police noticed a truck driving from behind a closed building on East State Street June 17. As the vehicle neared State Street, it turned west in the direction of the on-coming patrol car and quickly accelerated toward. The officer turned his patrol car around and the vehicle quickly turned onto Clinton Street and then Orchard Street and abruptly stopped. The driver then climbed out of the truck’s window and stumbled as he tried to run. Police noted that the 47year-old Hastings man exhibited multiple signs of intoxication. He was arrested for operating while intoxicated and refused an on-scene Breathalyzer, but at the jail his Breathalyzer registered .18 percent. He was charged with being “super drunk” and fleeing and eluding police. He also was cited for refusing the requested portable breath test. Roommate takes a phone to the face Sheriff deputies and a State Police trooper were dispatched to a possible domestic assault at a Rutland Township residence on Scenic Trail June 13 around 8:30 p.m. A Central Dispatch operator said the call was from a screaming female who possibly said someone had been shot. When the dispatcher recontacted the woman, she said her roommate had gotten jealous and hit her 10 times in the head. She said she did not want law enforcement involved. By contacting the caller’s cell phone provider, the operator was able to learn the address on North M-37. When authorities arrived, the 43year-old Hastings woman said the man had hit her in the head and she, in return, had punched him in the face. Reportedly, the man had left the house and went to Pennock Hospital for medical treatment. The trooper and a deputy proceeded to Pennock to talk with the man, while a second deputy stayed with the woman. The man reportedly had three cuts around his left eye which was swollen and bruised. He also had a bump on the back of his head, which he said was from the woman pushing him into the bathtub. The man said the woman had hit him with a cordless phone and said he never hit her. When asked, the woman admitted to having a phone in her hand when she hit the man. Deputies also noted the woman smelled of strongly of alcohol, and she refused a portable breath test. She told deputies she was currently on parole. She was arrested for domestic assault. The report was turned over to the prosecutor’s office and the case remains open. Wayland resident has no idea what happened Deputies received a call from a motorist in Orangeville June 18 reporting a person lying in the road near the intersection of Marsh and Nine Mile roads. When deputies arrived, the man was stumbling around in the ditch. The 32-year-old Wayland resident said he was drunk and didn’t know how he ended up in the road. He registered a .23 percent blood alcohol level. He declined medical attention and said he only wanted to go home. After calling several people for a ride and contacting no one, the man was driven to his residence by a deputy. Truck robbery takes Man gets ‘faced’ twists and turns by girlfriend A man called from Middleville June 14 to report his truck had been taken, damaged and then returned. He told deputies the truck was not parked in the same spot, and that the tires had been slashed, a Boze stereo, GPS, CB radio, power-retractable mirrors and Boss V snowplow were missing and the dashboard had been torn apart. The caller said it appeared the truck was driven into his lawn tractor, then off the property and into the woods and onto Grange Road, then back onto his property, hitting his porch and stopping near a pool. Deputies reported the driver’s side door was still open, all four tires were slashed, and a steak knife was stuck into the weather stripping of the driver’s door. The man said he thinks the thieves used his spare set of keys, which he kept in the truck’s console, to drive the vehicle away and remove parts. Cost of damage is estimated at $8,000. No fingerprints were found. Deputies were called to a residence on Broadway Street in Woodland June 18 for a domestic disturbance. The caller told deputies he had been slapped in the face twice by his girlfriend during a verbal altercation before she had left the residence. He said the woman had slapped him once while they were driving because he turned the radio down. They arrived at the Broadway residence of his sister and the man, the passenger, got out of the car. The two were still arguing when he approached the driver’s side window and the woman slapped him again. The 22-year-old Woodland woman denied slapping the man in the car and said she had only “face-pushed” him the second time because he was leaning into the window of her car during the argument. The report has been turned over to the prosecutor’s office for review. Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 28, 2012 — Page 15 First Valley Rally run draws 39 participants Valhalla wins twice at Northern Exposure The Valhalla wrestling team finished with a 2-3 record at the Northern Exposure Duals at Little Bear East Arena in St. Ignace Saturday. The team of wrestlers from around the area took St. Ignace, Training Station, Little Rascals, DHC and Free Agents at the event which included teams from across the state. The Valhalla group included coach Aaron Tabor (from left) Jordan Bennett, Hunter Challender, Garrett Phelps, Andrew Morgan, John Jackson, Lars Pyrzynski, Jacob Reed, Dan Dykstra, Trent Bramen, Nick Flynn and coach Brad Bennett. Carbon Green BioEnergy has sponsored the team this summer. MHSAA participation drops 1.5 percent For the first time in eight years, participation in high school sports in which post-season tournaments are sponsored by the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) dropped below the 300,000 mark during the 2011-12 school year, but the decrease was still slower than the drop in the general student population at member schools. A total of 297,317 participants took part in the 28 tournament sports offered by the Association in the past year – a 1.5 percent decrease from the 2010-11 school year figure of 301,921. Student enrollments at MHSAA member schools were down by 3.7 percent for the past school year. Girls participation was down 1.2 percent from a year ago with 124,724; and the boys total of 172,593 was down 1.7 percent. Since 2006-07, the student population at MHSAA member schools is down from 531,903 to 487,651 – a drop of 8.2 percent. Participation in that time span has dropped from 313,093, a decrease of 5.0 percent. The totals count students once for each sport in which he or she participates, meaning stu- by Brett Bremer Tough-guy attitude regarding concussions still a problem The message still isn’t getting through somehow. The public address announcer read through public service announcements (PSA) from the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) between innings during the Thornapple Kellogg varsity baseball team’s Division 2 State Quarterfinal contest against Grand Rapids Christian at Hope College’s Boeve Stadium June 12. I’m not sure that this was the exact one he read that sunny day in Holland, but if it’s not it carries the same message as the one he read. “How many times in sports have we heard the phrase – “you just got you’ll bell rung, you’ll be OK, get back into the game”? Guess what? If you got your bell rung, you’re probably not OK, you’ve probably sustained a concussion, and going back in the game just might put your life in jeopardy. Safety comes first in high school sports, and everyone should learn the signs and symptoms of concussions.” I turned back and scanned through the orange and black on the third base side of the stadium until my eyes found now retired Thornapple Kellogg Schools superintendent Gary Rider. It was just a couple of weeks earlier that Rider spoke to the 2012 graduating class at Thornapple Kellogg High School during its commencement ceremony. Rider spoke of the positive things he’ll remember about the class of 2012. He concluded the list with a comment about wrestler Alex Roy’s performance in the Trojans’ O-K Gold Conference dual with Hastings from the winter season. “Alex, his match was done and so was he,” Rider said. “Alex was surrounded by trainers, doctors, parents, coaches and teammates. He’d suffered a concussion and a separated shoulder among other injuries, and when it was over I don’t think Alex had any idea where he was or who he was. He may have lost his match, but he refused to get pinned in spite of all these injuries. He wasn’t going to give up and he wasn’t going to give in, especially to somebody from Hastings. “It was an incredible testament to his character and a true inspiration to everyone who was there to witness. In the end, his effort was the difference in the final score in the match. The strength of spirit Alex demonstrated is a common characteristic I’ve seen in many of you sitting here today. “That’s what I’ll remember most about the class of 2012.” This isn’t about fueling a wrestling rivalry, or bashing on Rider. It was clear that his opinion was shared by many in attendance, and I know that it is shared by many who were not in attendance. Rider had an earlier comment about one bright student making the wrong choice between the University of Michigan and Michigan State University to continue his education. That comment drew gasps from the crowd. The “Hastings” comment drew chuckles. In a world without a “you’ll be OK, get back into the game” attitude, those two reactions would likely have been reversed. The “you’ll be OK, get back into the game” attitude, would look at an athlete like Roy and think that he would be letting the team down if he didn’t/wouldn’t/couldn’t continue. Those on the other side have to look at it and think, who let Mr. Roy down letting him stay on the mat? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have a four-step action plan for what should be done when it is suspected that an athlete has a concussion. Step one: Remove the athlete from play. “When in doubt, keep the athlete out.” To be fair, there aren’t always obvious symptoms to a concussion. You can’t shine a light in an athlete’s eyes and see that a traumatic brain injury has occurred. Sitting on the side of the mat I certainly wasn’t sure that he had suffered a concussion. Roy is fine to the best of my knowledge. He played a big part in the TK varsity baseball team’s first ever run to the state quarterfinals this spring. Football season will start in a few weeks. No sport has had the spotlight shined on concussion worries like football in the past few years. Hopefully, awareness continues to grow about the dangers of concussions. Be tough. Rub some dirt on a sprained ankle. Spit on a skinned knee. Go to the doctor with a concussion. dents who are multiple-sport athletes are counted more than once. Records for participation in 2011-12 were set in four sports – two for boys and two for girls. Once again, cross country and lacrosse numbers hit all-time highs in both genders. Only two sports exhibited a drop in participation that was well beyond that of the drop in student enrollment. Boys golf was down 6.6 percent, and boys swimming and diving was down 4.7 percent. Boys tennis continues a downward slide, with this year’s participation of 6,815 the lowest point since the Association began tracking the numbers in 1991-92. Its losses since 2006-07 are the highest in terms of percentage of any sport at 21.5 percent (1,868 participants). By comparison, girls tennis participation is stable - up 0.6 percent in the same time period. Girls cross country set another record at 8,135, and participation in the sport is up 15.0 percent since 2006-07. In that same time period, boys cross country participation is up 6.1 percent. Basketball figures dropped 1.9 percent for boys and girls in 2011-12; also continuing a decline faster than the drop in student enrollments, and participation in both sports are at their lowest points since the Association began tracking the numbers in 1991-92. Since the 2006-07 survey, girls participation is down 10.9 percent and the boys number is down 8.8 percent – the second highest drops in raw numbers of all sports – girls are down 2,100 participants, boys 2,131. In terms of raw numbers, football has seen the biggest drop since 2006-07, down 3,203 participants – a drop of 6.9 percent A total of nine sports have participating dropping at a faster rate since 2006-07 than enrollment numbers would suggest – boys tennis, girls swimming and diving, boys and girls basketball, boys and girls skiing, girls gymnastics, softball, and girls track and field. Seven sports have seen significant increases in participation since 2006-07 – boys and girls cross country, boys and girls bowling, boys swimming and diving, and boys and girls lacrosse. In percentages, girls lacrosse is up 30.3 percent - and boys lacrosse is up 26.2 percent. Ten sports had increases in participation in 2011-12 (7 girls and 3 boys) and 18 sports had drops (7 girls-11 boys). The participation figures are gathered annually from MHSAA member schools to submit to the National Federation of State High School Associations for compiling its national participation survey. Results of Michigan survey from the 2000-01 school year to the present may be viewed on the MHSAA website – mhsaa.com. Kyle Spencer won the male competition at the June 16 Valley Rally 5K, hitting the finish line in 18 minutes 23.6 seconds. Tiffany Blakely was the top finisher in the female competition at the June 16 Valley Rally 5K, coming in at 22 minutes 12.9 seconds. A total of 39 walkers and runners gathered for the first annual Valley Rally 5K Saturday, June 16, in Nashville. The event was a fundraiser for the Maple Valley High School football program. A group of 18 football players helped to set up for the event, then scattered throughout Nashville to help direct participants along the course. The route started behind the downtown stores at 8 a.m. and traveled down Water Alley to Reed Street, east to Curtis Road to Sherman Street and back. “I thought it went pretty well,” said Maple Valley varsity football coach Brian Lincoln. “I know it was a busy weekend. We didn’t have as many (participants) as we would have hoped.” He said he hopes that word of mouth will spread about the event, and allow it to continue to grow in future years. Tiffany Blakely was the overall winner in the female 5K, hitting the finish line in 22 minutes 12.9 seconds. Kyle Spencer was the winner of the male 5K, finishing in 18:23.6. There were 25 runners and 14 walkers in total in the event. First place runners in each age group received medals. 2012 Valley Rally 5K Results Female 15-19 -- 1, Kayla Bite 24:36.5. Female 20-29 -- 1, Lizzie Mills, 26:53.5. 2, Joelle Simon, 28:53.1. 3, Miranda Dunn, 29:53.9. 4, Haley Simon, 32:35.9. 5, Shawna Tevelde, 35:37.2. 6, Meagan Smith, 35:37.1. Female 30-39 -- 1, Tiffany Blakely, 22:12.9. 2, Jessi Trierweiler, 24:30.9. 3, Marin Thrun, 24:50.6. 4, Holly Carpenter, 30:09.7. 5, Angie Musser, 31:32.0. 6, Jodi Kimbel, 31:40.3. 7, Miriam Raines, 37:03.8. Female 60-and-up -- 1, Nancy Jones, 27:17.5. Male 15-19 -- 1, Kyle Spencer, 18:23.6. Jake Miller, 19:57.6. 3, Brandon Wilson, 20:11.6. Male 20-29 -- 1, Jeff Taylor, 21:12.5. 2, David Benedict, 26:43.1. Male 40-49 -- 1, Jerret Morris, 36:04.7. Male 50-59 -- 1, Jerry Schray, 30:47.8. Male 60-and-up -- 1, Wayne Gould, 23:39.1. 2, Bruce Hunt, 26:43.2. 3, Butch Briseno, 29:06.6. Three-day volleyball camp at Lakewood H.S. July 23-25 The Lakewood Volleyball Program will be hosting a volleyball clinic for all third through ninth graders on July 23-25. The clinic will run from 8:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. July 23-24 at Lakewood High School, then conclude with the July 25 session running from 8:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. and including mini tournament. The Lakewood High School coaching staff, and present and past varsity players will be the clinicians covering all the necessary skills to be a dynamic volleyball player. The cost for the camp is $55 for those who pre-register by calling Clair Rowland at 269367-4405 or Kellie Rowland at 616-8224837. Registration may also be done at the door July 23, beginning at 8 a.m. The cost at the door is $60. Every camper should dress in athletic attire and appropriate work out shoes. Knee pads are recommended. This is a great opportunity to begin new skills, refresh old skills or prepare skills for middle school volleyball season. 77568932 77568929 77568935 �Page 16 — Thursday, June 28, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Wrestlers get a chance to check out gold medal by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Mid-Michigan Wrestling Camp at Lakewood High School this week wasn’t all about hard work and sweat. The young wrestlers, and their coaches, got a chance to “Ooh! and Ahh!” as well. John Peterson talked about some of the mental side of wrestling, showed off some technique, and showed off his Olympic gold medal during the first day of the three-day camp Monday. “He brought his medal, let it go around through the whole crowd. Man, are they heavy suckers,” said Lakewood varsity wrestling coach Bob Veitch, who ran the annual camp. “He let all the kids have it.” “I told him I don’t know if I want you passing that around.” Peterson won the gold medal in freestyle wrestling at 82 kg at the 1976 Olympic Games in Montreal, after winning the silver in 1972 in Munich. “Peterson showed his double-leg (take down),” Veitch said. “He still has the best double-leg in the world, and actually what was really nice is that he gave his testimony. He’s also a preacher. He gave his testimony and he really stressed to the kids that there’s more than just setting a goal to win it all.” Veitch said that Peterson stressed that young athletes shouldn’t set their goals too high, but rather just go out each and every day and work to be the best that they can be. Bouncing back from adversity was also a big part of his message. “His goal in high school was to be a state champion, and he wasn’t. He was a medalist” Veitch said. “His goal was to win a national championship, and he didn’t. But he kept plugging away and he became the world’s best. But, it just didn’t happen over night.” Youngsters from Lakewood, Hastings, Delton, Ionia, Allegan, Caledonia and other school districts around the area took part in the camp that ran Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. Veitch said there were about 400 young wrestlers in all who took part in the camp. Youngsters put their newly learned skills to the test Wednesday morning at the MidMichigan Wrestling Camp at Lakewood High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) All American wrestler and current Grand Rapids Community College athletic director Charlie Wells talks about the importance of misdirection to athletes in the Lakewood High School wrestling room during the Mid-Michigan Wrestling Camp Wednesday morning. (Photo by Brett Bremer) “A lot of times with camps, it really boils down to reinforcing things that they have already done,” said Hastings varsity wrestling coach Mike Goggins. “There’s no secrets. It’s a sport about execution and the guy that executes the same moves that you know better is the guy that wins.” Peterson may have the best double-leg take down in the world, but most wrestlers learn the basics for the move early on. Goggins said the basics for the move are the same ones that get taught to the little kids that show up for wrestling club at the Hastings High School balcony on Tuesday and Thursday nights. “It’s all about execution. The more times you do it, the better you get at it,” said Goggins. “I think most of the time it offers you more validity, because your kids are going to go ‘oh, we do that at home.’” The camp concluded Wednesday with a few runs of 45 minutes each through the different areas of focus, and then a half hour of head-to-head wrestling. Delton Kellogg varsity head coach Dan Phillips said the real end of the camp experience was still ahead for the 15 or so wrestlers from his team taking part - a trip to McDonald’s and a chance to cool off in Jordan Lake before the trip home. Train Wreck fighters set for hometown event by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The cage was being erected Wednesday in front of the grandstand at the Lake Odessa Fairgrounds. Portable bleachers are being moved in. There will be ten cage side tables for spectators and eight VIP tables, some of which are still available. In other words, it will be easy to be close to the action. Michigan Xtreme Combat (MXC) will be hosting a mixed martial arts cage fighting at the Lake Odessa Fair Saturday evening. Doors open at 6 p.m. and fighting is slated to begin at 7 p.m. Tickets for Saturday’s event are $20 in advance or $25 at the gate. Train Wreck Fight Alliance, the gym which opened a year ago in Lake Odessa, will have a handful of guys participating in the evening’s even, including heavyweight Adam Thelen who competed in his first event Saturday (June 23) at Total Warrior Combat’s Beauties & Beasts event at the Best Western Plus in Lansing. “He made his cage debut,” said Train Wreck Fight Alliance’s (TWFA) Rob Fisk. “The kid has been training for four months. He’s had a number of, at least half a dozen, fights fall through on him. He finally got in the cage.” It took just two rounds for Thelen to beat out Cory Pena. “He sweats all day long in the lumber mill, then turns around and sweats in the gym all night long,” Fisk said of Thelen. Kendall Cahoon also fought under TWFA flag in Lansing, improving to 3-0 with his win in the 145-pound weight class. The previous Saturday, June 16, TWFA had Ryan Steverson earn the MXC Super Heavy Weight Championship title with a first round TKO of Ramon Pacheco at the MXC event at the DeltaPlex in Grand Rapids. The list of TWFA fighters scheduled to take part in Saturday’s competition includes Lake Odessa’s Thelen, 175pounder Chantz McManamey from Nashville, light heavyweight David Risk from Lake Odessa, light heavyweight/heavyweight Mike Lehman from Lake Odessa, 135/145-pounder Scotty Mack from Lake Odessa and 145-pounder Tallyn Alexander from Lake Odessa. Fighters from other gyms around the area will be competing as well. Fisk said his gym has grown to include 11 fighters, and that roster is currently growing. For every fighter the gym adds two or three are having to be turned away. Tickets are available in the evenings at the Train Wreck Gym in the evenings at 3680 W. Tupper Lake Rd in Lake Odessa, or contact Fisk for ticket information and for ringside table and VIP table availability at 616-902-5578. Contact MXC for more general information about the show at 616-255-3167. Caledonia varsity wrestling coach Shawn Veitch addresses the crowd of youngsters gathered for day three of the Mid-Michigan Wrestling Camp at Lakewood High School Wednesday morning. Nearly 400 wrestlers took part in the three-day camp. (Photo by Brett Bremer) From left to right: David J. Heeringa, D.O., Orthopedic Surgeon; James L. Horton, Jr., D.O., Orthopedic Surgeon; Eric S. Leep, D.O., Physical Medicine; Kenneth S. Merriman, M.D., Orthopedic Surgeon. People. Passion. Technology Phone 269.945.9520 / Toll Free 800.596.1005 07603005 Welcome to Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, your musculoskeletal experts close to home. We specialize in the Art of Total Orthopedic Care, Physical Medicine, and Pain Management. We provide the highest degree of service in an efficient, personal, and professional manner. Our focus is to maximize the health, function, and quality of life of the population we serve. Westside Beer team wins D2 Championship at state tourney The Westside Beer team which regularly rolls on Wednesday evenings at Hastings Bowl took the Division 2 Team Championship at the 109th Michigan State USBC BA Open Championship Tournament in Monroe. Team members were (clockwise from bottom left) Todd Gray, Scott Lyttle, Richard Potter, Ron Kloosterman and Ben Bowman. The group combined for a score of 4,001 in the tournament, finishing more than 120 points better than the runner-up team from Dexter. The area had a number of high finishes in the competition, with the Hastings Team 2 from Nashville placing sixth, the AMI team from Lake Odessa placing seventh, and the Hastings Team 1 from Nashville placing 17th. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-07-05.pdf 09d88d32e685aeb91dcc8c32c3a54dcd PDF Text Text Bench dedicated to county veterans Success can be tough but it starts with passion Gus Macker swishes through Hastings See Story on Page 16 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 2 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 27 NEWS BRIEFS Chuck Whiting and Rowdy Friends play at fountain Chuck Whiting and His Rowdy Friends will perform July 6, for the weekly concert series Fridays at The Fountain. Although this trio of instrumentalist is new to the series in downtown Hastings, they are familiar faces to folks in the Barry County area. The band is made up of leader Chuck Whiting, who provides rhythm guitar and vocals for the group. Lead guitar is provided by Nick Lancaster, and upright bass is held down by Andrew Whiting. The group brings its special brand of original music, which can be described as Texas swing, to each performance. Whiting will even be heard throwing in some yodeling. Fridays at the Fountain concerts are held every week from noon to 1:30 p.m. on the Barry County Courthouse lawn. In the event of rain, concerts will be moved to the community room in the Hastings City Bank, 150 W. Center St. As an added bonus this year, the Seasonal Grille is on hand to take lunch orders for concert patrons. Art in the Park is Saturday Art in the Park, Lake Odessa’s oneday event, will draws hundreds of shoppers to the village park Saturday, July 7. Along with arts, crafts and food vendors, local musicians will take the stage to entertain shoppers and visitors throughout the day. This year’s talent includes Lakewood Area Choral Society Glee Club, Jonathan Cross, Bert Jones and Friends, Coldwater Brass Quintet, Tim Yates and Miss Figg. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Shenanigans the Clown will entertain youngsters from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. throughout the park. Democrats to meet July 14 The Barry County Democrats will hold their monthly meeting Saturday, July 14, at 9 a.m. at the Thomas Jefferson Hall in downtown Hastings. All interested citizens of Barry County are welcome. For further information, call 269-9458832 or go to www.facebook.com/barrycountydemocrats. GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, July 5, 2012 Hastings school district ends year in red by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer When all was said and done and the board of education made its final amendments to the 2011-12 fiscal year budget, the Hastings Area School System’s fund balance was $430,797 in the red — and that was good news. According to Hastings Area Schools Interim Superintendent Michelle Falcon, Don Sovey the financial consultant hired by the district to help with its budgeting process, had estimated Hastings schools would finish the year with a $535,000 fund balance deficit. Sandy Graybill, an accountant associate for the district, said the difference was due to recalculations of accruals and summer pay for Hastings Education Association members and the resulting adjustments of salary accounts. Board President Kevin Beck said that because the board has approved a deficit budget, it now has 30 days to submit paperwork relating to a deficit-reduction plan to the Michigan Department of Education. “I just don’t want to be here next year approving a deficit budget, in any way, shape or form,” said Trustee Dan Patton. The board approved the amendment unanimously, with trustees Gene Haas and Jon Hart absent. In other business, the board: • Unanimously voted to adopt the 2012-13 tax levy resolution which included a levy of 17.9262 mills on non-homestead property for general operating expenses, a debt retirement tax of 4.25 mills and a state education tax if 6.0 mills as required by state law. • Adopted a resolution to borrow up to $6.5 million to meet cash flow for the 2012-13 fiscal year. • Approved financing $396,000 at a 1.99 percent interest rate from Chemical Bank for improvements to the district’s technology infrastructure, including upgrades to the servers and fiberoptic communications for all buildings. • Approved the low bid of $12,300 from Dean Boiler Inc. to replace the condensation pipe in the tunnel between Central Elementary and the middle school. • Authorized the superintendent to execute facility use agreements with the Barry Intermediate School District for the use of one classroom at Star Elementary and one at Southeastern Elementary for its special-needs programs, and with the HEA for one classroom at Hastings Middle School for office space. • Accepted a donation of $7,500 from Larry and Earlene Baum to purchase supplies for the musicals and film class. • Accepted the personnel report which contained notice of the following: Retirements — Robert Glasgow, districtwide specialized maintenance. Recall from layoff — Sandra Chewning, Andrea Schmidt, Shanna Tietz and Tanya Woern, health care I paraprofessionals. Appointments — Todd Bates, high school girls dive coach; Mike Beker, co-assistant JV football coach; Dustin Bowman, co-assistant JV football coach; Steve Collins, high school boys and girls cross country coach; Pat Coltson, assistant varsity football coach; Benjamin Conklin, varsity boys soccer coach; Brian Donnini, head JV football coach; Michael Engle, JV girls basketball coach; Marshall Evans, head freshman football coach; Stephanie Hokanson, eighth grade volleyball coach; Emily Hoke, freshman cheerleading coach; Amy Hubbell, varsity sideline and competitive cheerleading coach; Diane Jager, JV cheerleading coach; Jeff Keller, assistant freshman football coach; Stan Kirkendall, girls JV golf coach; Bruce Krueger, girls golf coach; James Murphy, assistant varsity football coach; Fred Rademacher, varsity football coach; Carl Schoessel, girls swim coach, high school; Timothy Schoessel, JV boys soccer coach; Angelia Sixberry, seventh grade volleyball; and, Ed von der Hoff, boys tennis coach. • Approved the continuing employment of the following non-contract employees for the 2012-13 fiscal year: Erin Blakely, Darla Cady, Larry Cook, Lisa Gebhardt, Sandy Graybill, Timothy Kietzman, Sandra Mikolajczyk, Brian Osterink, Mary Robinson, Elizabeth Rowse, James Vreugde and Jeff Wilbur. • Issued contracts for July 1 through June 30, 2013, for administrators Christopher Cooley, Michael Goggins, Stephen Hoke, Judith Johnson, Michael Schneiderhan and Amy Tebo. • Accepted the resignation of Southeastern Elementary fourth grade teacher Joshua Reynolds. • Went into closed session to discuss con- tract negotiations. No action was taken when the board returned to open session. • Announced the annual organizational meeting of the board of education will be at 7:30 p.m. Monday, July 23, in the multi-purpose room of Hastings Middle School, 232 W. Grand St. Hastings baby ‘gavels in’ official adoption order At the request of District Judge Michael Schipper, new parents Terry and Sally Sedlar of Hastings returned to the courtroom this week to make the adoption of daughter Tori official. Though the formal decree was issued by Schipper eight months ago, the judge asked for a reappearance so he could provide a gift to Tori — a miniature gavel made by his father, Earl (standing, back). “She was my first adoption,” notes Schipper, “and, because Tori was entranced by my gavel then, I wanted to provide her and the family a meaningful gift.” Friday’s ceremony was touching to the Sedlars and to the Schippers. Earl adopted the judge and his siblings, and the judge, in turn, has adopted his own son. County commissioners may be out of dog house on Animal Control issue by Doug VanderLaan Editor After two years of it nipping at their heels, Barry County Commissioners may have tamed the Animal Control and shelter issue at its committee of the whole meeting Tuesday. The pesky problem took a strident tone last week when the board locked up at its official board of commissioners meeting on a 4-4 vote to reassign Animal Control from the sheriff’s department to a newly created department that would also provide shelter services with its own director. That vote and preceding discussion brought out frank discord from citizens in attendance, some of whom chastised the board for attempting to move forward on the new department without facts and reliable financial forecasting. Tuesday’s meeting, however, produced unanimity, helped by a proposal from Commission Chair Craig Stolsonburg that attracted on 8-0 vote of approval. Stolsonburg’s motion — still to be more carefully considered at the July 17 committee of the whole meeting — proposes separating Animal Control and animal shelter responsibilities. Jurisdiction for Animal Control would remain with the sheriff’s department and one Animal Control officer. Duties for animal shelter and care — including licensing, adoption and euthanasia — would be designated to a newly created department to be led by a director whose salary and benefits package would come from a current frozen Animal Control officer’s position at the sheriff’s department. “In talking with the administrator [County Administrator Michael Brown], if that person doesn’t have the animal enforcement function under them, it won’t carry as high a pay scale,” reported Stolsonburg, who estimated that the new director position — which he also said could be termed “supervisor” — would be priced closer to $40,000. That, apparently, was a far different and a far more acceptable figure to commissioners who had argued last week that an estimated $70,000 compensation package would be irresponsible in light of coming budget discussions and possible deficits. “It makes sense and it’s very workable for all of us,” said Commissioner Robert Houtman, who had proposed last week’s plan that would have combined Animal Control responsibilities and shelter operations. “I think that person [the director] should be narrowly deputized to enforce the Michigan Dog Law so that if there are vacations for Dar’s [Sheriff Dar Leaf] Animal Control officer, sickness, backup or whatever’s needed that also becomes their responsibility.” The plan was workable enough that Commissioner Dan Parker elected not to make a prepared motion that the board establish a temporary study committee to report back to the board within 60 days on a recommended strategy for addressing the issue. “The thing I want to be sure we’re focusing on is increasing the adoption rate,” said Parker. “It’s going to be really important you hire the right person who’s got the experience and familiarity and with working with volunteers. “I believe the volunteers can make a very big difference in this whole thing — getting dogs and cats out there to get adopted,” added Parker. “From what I’ve seen at other places, that builds up even more volunteers, it gets more donations coming in, they’ll have more fees for spaying and neutering, and it could become self-sufficient. I’d like to see that happen with that idea in mind.” Commissioner Don Nevins added his own concern that volunteers who serve on the county’s Animal Control/Shelter Advisory Board would still be held intact and of value under Stolsonburg’s plan. In addition to Houtman’s and Stolsonburg’s assent, two members of the advisory board in attendance Tuesday were able to provide their own. “It sounds like what we’re looking for,” Mary Fisher, who’s also president of the Barry County Humane Society, told commissioners. Kathy Wiggins added a personal thanks. “I just want to compliment you,” said Wiggins. “I feel this is very workable, and I want to thank you very much.” In other business, the commission: • Approved a $3,000 expenditure to hire a space consultant for analysis of future security improvements to the courts and law building and courthouse. Additional discussion regarding the proposed purchase of two magnetometers, one for each building, served as an opening for future discussions regarding staffing costs and possible recommendations See ANIMAL CONTROL, pg. 8 �Page 2 — Thursday, July 5, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Gus Macker swishes through streets of downtown Hastings Spectators make themselves comfortable to watch their teams compete in the heat. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Gretchen James of Hastings makes a swift move past her defender. (Photo courtesy of Rose Hendershot) Fighting the heat, spectators look on while Bill Loeks of Caledonia, a member of the Bosley Pharmacy team, takes on Brad Gee of the Hastings’ Four Problems team. (Photo courtesy of Rose Hendershot) Last weekend’s Gus Macker 3-on-3 basketball tournament filled Hastings with layups, hooks, fade-aways, slams and threepointers from way downtown. Many teams from around the state, young and old, braved the 90-plus-degree temperatures for their chance to compete. According to Hastings Police the event ran smoothly with no reported incidents. Youngsters use the Dream Court to full advantage and spread the defense thin. (Photo by Perry Hardin) The Saxon Boys take it to team NPC Force. Evan Eastman puts up the jumper with teammates Layton Eastman and Jonathan Rosenberg moving to the rim. (Photo by Perry Hardin) An able defender readies himself for his opponent’s drive to hoop. (Photo by Perry Hardin) A pick-n-roll frees up this drive to the rim. Local teams vying for a win are Saxons Kapow, made of Gretchen James, Katelyn Goodrich, Lauren Harden and Grace Nickels, and KEHT, which includes Megan Deal, Natasha Glasgow, Kassidy Morgan and Ellie Youngs. (Photo by Perry Hardin) 77569146 A competitor rises above the rim in the slam-dunk contest. (Photo courtesy of Rose Hendershot) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, July 5, 2012 — Page 3 GUS MACKER, continued from previous page The post man makes his move to the rim while a triple-team converges. (Photo courtesy of Rose Hendershot) A dribbler works to control the ball before setting up a score. (Photo courtesy of Rose Hendershot) Barry County Chamber of Commerce President Valerie Byrnes welcomes everyone to the first Hastings Gus Macker Tournament. (Photo courtesy of Rose Hendershot) Thursday, July 5 — Movie Memories goes fishing with “Mr. Peabody and the Mermaid,” 5 to 8 p.m.; library book club discusses Robin Mather’s The Feast Nearby, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Friday, July 6 — preschool story time learns about the moon and stars, 10:30 to 11 a.m. Monday, July 9 — summer reading program, “Dream Big, Read,” continues; computer class tackles “Mousing and More,” 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 10 — toddler story time settles down for “a good night, sleep tight,” 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.; open chess club, 6 to 8 p.m.; special workshop on dream interpretation, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, July 11 — summer reading invites everyone to rock with “Drummunity,” 2 to 3 p.m. Call the library for more information, 269945-4263. The Toilet Bowl champs for their age group are team WGMT Ballerz, all age 12, will be seventh graders at Hastings (from left) Matt Hewitt, Garrett Coltson, Wyatt Smith and Ty Sinclair. (Photo by Perry Hardin) The jumper is up and away beyond the reach of outstretched arms. (Photo by Perry Hardin) 77569078 Players compete for the $500 slam-dunk prize. (Photo courtesy of Rose Hendershot) HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE 77569084 77569081 77569093 77569087 77569090 The COLA Crew takes the 13- to 14-year-old category championship. All players are going into ninth grade at Hastings are (from left) Clay Coltson, Owen Post, Lee Stowe and Alex McMahon. (Photo by Perry Hardin) �Page 4 — Thursday, July 5, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Success can be tough, but it’s easier when it starts with passion This view from the base of a towering tree was sent in by Ron Neil of Hastings. But it’s not just any tree. The white pine was among those planted by the Ganguillet or Buck families in the 1940s and 1950s, featured in the June 14 Hastings Banner in the Turning Back the Pages column. That column, which concludes this week, featured 26 winners of the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz and how they operated their farms in 1952. The Rene Ganguillet family continued the Buck family’s tradition of planting evergreens, according to the 1952 article, with help from the conservation district. “What a difference 60 years makes,” said Neil, who appreciates the efforts and foresight of the previous owners. We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@jadgraphics.com. Do you know? Setting sail Do you recognize anyone in this photo? Do you know where the photo was taken, or why? Are these U.S. Navy uniforms? Were these sailors in Barry County? Which lake? What can you tell us about this photo? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event to reunite the photos with their original clippings or identify photos that may never have been used. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@j-adgraphics.com; or call 269-9459554. Last week’s photo of two women working with flags of various nations drew no responses. Have you met? Ruth Hokanson is a lifelong resident of Hastings. Both she and her husband, George, were born in Pennock Hospital and graduated from Hastings High School. The couple are members of the West Michigan Sheltie Club and participated in West Michigan Sheltie Rescue for seven years. Ruth was in 4-H as a youth and went on to serve as a leader in cooking and dog clubs as an adult. She has been a volunteer at Pennock as a member of the Pediatric OB Guild for 40 years, served on the Barry County Child Abuse Prevention Council for 25 years and has been a member of the Hastings General Federation of Women’s Club for seven years, and is a past president of the club. As a member of the Hastings GFWC, in addition to serving as president and chairing committees such as the recent project to support Operation Smile, Ruth has participated in arts and crafts and photography competitions, earning a blue ribbon in photography at the state level each year and winning at nationals and earning a place on the club’s national calendar in 2007. For her contributions to the community, Ruth has been named a Bright Light. Famous person, living or dead, I would like to meet: Mother Theresa, because of her compassion and the work she did all her life. I sincerely believe in giving back to the community. If you can’t give back monetarily, you can always give of your time and efforts. If I could have a super power it would be: A wand that I could wave and we could have peace and the economy would return to a time when people weren’t homeless and they could buy food — a time when life was Ruth Hokanson easier. Favorite vacation: A trip to Florida that I went on with ladies from Canada. We stayed in Orlando and went to Disney and just had a blast for two weeks. I had met them online through Wide Wide Circle of Friends and two years before, they had pooled together and came to Hastings to provide moral support when I had surgery. Worst summer job: Actually, I’ve never had a job I didn’t like. I worked as a nurses aid for years, I worked in an adult foster home, and I worked for an attorney. I worked at Aunt Jane’s Pickle factory. TV show I would most like to be on: “The Closer” because I would really like to meet Kyra Sedgewick; or “Bones,” I would like to meet the actors who play Seelye Booth and Bones. But, I really like “Mike and Molly” because I can really relate to them because they are both heavyset and I like that they aren’t made fun of because of their weight; they are portrayed as having problems just like skinny people. If I could go back in time: I would go back to the 1800s to meet Jane Cunningham Croly, founder of the GFWC. She was journalist and she founded the women’s club after she went to a men’s club to hear Charles Dickens speak and was turned away because she was a woman. I would have loved to meet her and to be a part of the women’s suffrage movement. People would be surprised to learn about me: GFWC has four levels— local, state, district and national. I have participated in three of the four levels would like to participate in the fourth, or the national level, and I would like to visit the headquarters in Washington, D.C. If I had a a theme song: It would be Lee Greenwood’s “God Bless the USA.” If people would take God more seriously and bring Him into their lives, there would be a lot less war; people would put their differences aside and look at the bigger picture. Each week, the Banner profiles a person from the community working behind the scenes, whose efforts may not make headlines, but whose dedication makes Barry County shine. We’ll provide a quick peek each week at some of Barry County’s stars. Do you know someone who should be featured? Send information to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@jadgraphics.com. One of the best assignments I’ve been given as a journalist has been a recent series appearing in the past seven issues of our sister paper, The Reminder, which details the educational experiences of recent and older graduates of Hastings High School. The series isn’t hard journalism. In fact, it all came about with the offer of several area business people concerned about the declining enrollment effect that the Schools of Choice option has had on local schools. By sponsoring a weekly piece that highlights the positive experiences these students have had and the value that their high school education has provided in their accomplishments, these advertisers are providing welcome reassurance to parents who have chosen the Hastings Area School System for their children. The five students I’ve interviewed who graduated this past May are, naturally, filled with optimism for a future to come at wonderful colleges and universities. They’re also filled, though, with fervor for the subjects they will be pursuing and for the lifework that the pursuit will bring. I’ve also been taken, though, with what passion has done for the three older graduates whom I’ve written about so far. Travis Williams and Jason Keizer, both 1994 graduates, have taken different routes but carry the strong imprint of the opportunities they were given at Hastings High School. Travis took an interest in biology nurtured by teacher Pete DeDecker among others, to a position as executive director of a wildlife sanctuary near Holland. Jason has taken a gift for sharing — encouraged by both his parents and teachers – to stops around the world, among them Ghana where he helped widows living together on pooled limited funds to obtain micro business loans they used to build a small income-producing agriculture business. Jason is now interning at Walter Reed Hospital in Washington, D.C., in his quest to become a doctor. The third of these older graduates, John Shakespeare, still has a lot of college ahead of him. John graduated in 2011, but his passion to devote himself to the care of others as a nurse is sustaining him as he works at Pennock Hospital for the funds to take one class at a time at Kellogg Community College. The stories have been inspiring to me, but they also serve as a reminder that nothing of any worth in life can be accomplished without passion. I’ve needed that wake-up call since a friend of mine told me not long ago about how his employer had cut back his job responsibilities enough to eliminate the benefits package that went with it. “It’s just a job now,” related my friend, today’s code words for “I’m giving the bare minimum from now on.” Understandable, I guess, but the man works in education and, if ever there were a position that needs passion, it’s education. This is no knock on teachers. I was one myself, and teachers still are my heroes. As a former school board member, the pain of declining enrollments and the accompanying layoffs, privatization of staff and reductions in programs rips me up. But, when you read the accounts in the Reminder of these Hastings High School graduates, it’s flat out apparent how the passion of their teachers propelled them to — and is propelling them to — what teacher Martin Buehler calls their “next level of greatness.” No school worth its reputation can live without passion. I would submit that no community can live without passion, either. I look to this past weekend’s successful first-ever Gus Macker Basketball What do you Tournament that drew thousands to Barry County, to the work of volunteers at community gems like the Bernard Museum near Delton and Historic Charlton Park, to the endless charitable work that goes into events like the county’s largest fundraiser, the recent Bill Porter Memorial Golf Tournament, and I see one common characteristic – passion. It’s passion that defines us, but it’s also the quality that transcends the difficulties we’re all feeling in these times of economic distress. It’s said today that a job is the new raise, and you’ve got to have one just to feel like you have value in this world. But with or without one, those causes we hold dear, those ideals that stir our soul, need our passion. Some years ago, when I was disillusioned as a fan of professional baseball because it seemed the astronomical player salary increases and the greed of owners was pushing up fan costs and tainting the game, I had a chance to grouse with an old but revered Detroit sportswriter. It’s passion that defines us, but it’s also the quality that transcends the difficulties we’re all feeling in these times of economic distress. It’s said today that a job is the new raise, and you’ve got to have one just to feel like you have value in this world. But with or without one, those causes we hold dear, those ideals that stir our soul, need our passion. “The game will always transcend the people who play it,” was the observation I received. I didn’t understand what that perspective meant at the time, but it came to me clearly a couple of months ago while attending a baseball game at Western Michigan University. It was beautiful baseball. I saw hit-and-run plays, sacrifice bunts, stolen bases and two massive home runs – and it was free. Here was the game of baseball played by young adults who were playing for the love of the game. Granted, many may have been receiving scholarships for agreeing to play, but I do believe the other slice of perspective I received those years ago from the Detroit sportswriter: Any professional baseball player today who truly loves the game, would play it for nothing. It’s passion that keeps us devoted to the causes we hold dear, but, even without it, those causes and institutions we hold dear will always be greater than we are. Times are tough, and I’m sorry my friend is feeling down about his loss of a benefits package. But now, if it’s just a job, maybe he should find a better one – or make the one he still has of value to others by not losing his passion. One of our greatest missions is to find someone daily who we can help make a success. People in Hastings, in Barry County, and in every school in our area are doing just that. They’re helping to push us all to our next level of greatness. I’ll be writing joyfully forever if I can tell a story with passion at its core. With it, we become only a shadow of our future selves — and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for Barry County. think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website, www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week. Feel free to leave an opinion or comment. Last week’s question: The upcoming holiday will mean louder and more powerful fireworks without a needed permit, thanks to a new state law. Are you in favor of the state allowing more bang? 67% 33% Yes No Doug VanderLaan, editor For this week: The U.S. Supreme Court ruled last week that the Affordable Health Care Act is constitutionally sound. The decision is now expected to become a political referendum for voters in November’s presidential election. Do you support the Court’s ruling? q q YES NO �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, July 5, 2012 — Page 5 Prosecutor has failed to protect family To the editor: With the Barry County primary election upon us next month, I would like to share a few of my experiences regarding our current prosecutor, Tom Evans. I have been victim to domestic violence on several occasions involving a ex where children were involved. With the help of various agencies and counseling, I have looked back into the past to find out why I received no assistance from the Barry County prosecutor’s office. I have made it my business to educate myself as to what the guidelines are within the law for the prosecutor to bring charges forth on behalf of a victim. With that knowledge, I can tell you I have never been given assistance, guidance or justice from the prosecutor. In 2006, I was assaulted by my partner, resulting in a fractured arm, blood clot and facial bruising. While I was at the hospital, law enforcement officials were there taking statements and photos of my injuries. Charges were sent from law enforcement to the prosecutor’s office of the incident and in spite the fact that my abuser admitted to the assault and the injuries he gave me, all charges were denied. In 2007, during an assault, I made several attempts to call 911, but my calls were disconnected. Law enforcement showed up at the residence in response to the disconnected calls to Central Dispatch and documented my injuries and suggested they call a ambulance to get me medical attention. No charges of domestic violence were charged, again. The disconnected 911 calls alone should have been reason enough for the prosecutor to pur- sue charges. When I asked why he did not pursue charges for the interference of a emergency call, Evans told me he never received the charges. The Michigan State Police informed me that he sent back the report, denying charges due to the fact my ex didn’t want me using his phone. Evans still denies this and will not explain the discrepancy. In December 2009, my ex was charged with operating while intoxicated, child endangerment and a felony charge of resisting and obstructing a officer. Even though I spoke with Prosecutor Evans office about informing me of all pleas offered and a chance to speak at his sentencing on behalf of my child, I never heard from his office again regarding the charges. After my ex’s plea was accepted, I found out he received misdemeanor attempt to resist and obstruct. The operating while intoxicated and child endangerment charges were dropped. Under law, a person is not declared a victim unless charges are sought by the prosecutor’s office. To this day, neither I nor my children have been declared victims by the office of Tom Evans, and I have spent more than two years asking him why. Under the Freedom of Information Act, I have asked for many reports and photos from responding agencies taken from the domestic violence investigations they concluded and sent them to the prosecutor’s office. I have made several attempts in person and via phone to have Evans explain the discrepancies and lack of seeking justice between law enforcement and his office. To this day, I have yet to be given any time to meet with him personally regarding my questions. Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. The Hastings Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Bonnie Mattson • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Robert H. Jackson, a former United States Supreme Court Justice, once said in a speech to federal prosecutors “The prosecutor has more control over life, liberty and reputation than any other person in America.” The lack of effort from Evans’ office has left me with no control over my life, a disgraced reputation and well documented story of injustice. A meeting from him to explain his reason for this has not been given to me, nor do I suspect it will in the future. Sharing my ugly past is done only in hope that you take this information with you into the voting booth on primary election day and seek justice for victims in Barry County. Violence will occur in the future and law enforcement officers take risks helping victims. The need for a prosecutor to entrust police investigations and seek justice is long overdue. We know Tom Evans’ record. I say it is time for someone new, and Julie Nakfoor Pratt is who we need. Name withheld at editor’s discretion State official seems to be misinformed To the editor: Much misinformation has been spread in this area about current gas well drilling procedures that has lulled our residents into a false sense of security. I heard our local DEQ inspector Mike Sheldon say, “ it takes a quarter mile to turn their drill to horizontal,” so we are safe here where the Antrim shale is at 1,500 feet. They cannot begin turning their drills until they get beneath the beginning bedrock-cased well which may be around 500 feet. I contacted WMU geology professor William Harrison III who is very involved in the Michigan basin petroleum recovery. He said a horizontal well could not be started until a depth of at least 500 feet in that case, and it would need several hundred feet to make the drill curve from vertical to horizontal. A likely scenario, in that particular case, would be that the horizontal part of the well could not be placed much shallower than 700 to 800 feet deep.” Going online and typing in “gas drilling turning radius” I immediately found several articles that talked about three different general types of boring technologies to go horizontal. NaturalGas.Org reports, “There are three main types of horizontal wells: short radius, medium radius and long radius. Shortradius wells typically have a curvature radius of 20 to 45 feet, being the sharpest turning of the three types ... Medium-radius wells typically have a curvature radius of 300 to 700 feet, with the horizontal portion of the well measuring up to 3,500 feet. These wells are useful when the drilling target is a long distance away from the drill site or where reservoirs are spaced apart underground. Multiple completions may be used to gain access to numerous deposits at the same time ... Longradius wells typically have a curvature radius of 1,000 to 4,500 feet and can extend a great distance horizontally. These wells are typically used to reach deposits offshore, where it is economical to drill outward from a single platform to reach reservoirs inaccessible with vertical drilling.” The long-radius wells do not do well on parcels less than 160 acres. The mediumradius wells work well on 40-acre parcels. Our state land was divided into 40-acre parcels for the May auction. The Antrim shale below us is between 100 and 300 feet thick. Oilshalegas.com says, “Most drills in the Antrim shale require stimulation by hydraulic fracturing to attain commercial production rates, ... To date, over 9,000 wells have been drilled throughout the Antrim shale, with depths of the wells ranging mainly from 150 feet to 1,500 feet.” Hydraulic fracturing is fracking. Local residents need to wake up and pay attention. Is our local DEQ inspector that uninformed about current drilling practices? George H. Williston, Orangeville Township GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 Call 945-9554 for more information. IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV ‘Animal control’ needs to be defined To the editor: For several weeks now, I’ve read articles in the Banner, and letters to the editor, concerning management of Barry County’s animal shelter. Some folks favor leaving the administration and operation of the facility with the sheriff’s department, while others believe it should be operated by a separate agency or group in a manner more consistent with the term “shelter.” As for the county board of commissioners, they can’t seem to figure out what to do. The answer lies in the definition o that term. If we want the operation to be purely ‘animal control,’ then the sheriff’s department is a reasonable place to house it. Not the only option, but a reasonable one inasmuch as it’s an existing, funded department. To ‘control’ animals in the county, we pick up the strays, abused and unwanted, and kill them. That probably shouldn’t be done in a facility called a ‘shelter’ however. It’s a rather egregious misnomer. If we want to operate an animal shelter, a law enforcement agency should not be the responsible department. We need an administrator, a small animal veterinarian (at least part-time), a couple people equipped to go out and pick up animals, and a group of Humane Society-type volunteers who will work to make the animals comfortable, show them and get as many as possible adopted, perhaps, showing some of the dogs, cats, rabbits, and more public events fostering adoptions. Certainly some animals will always be subject to euthanasia, but the number, the prior treatment, and the attempts to avoid that depends on which of the two outlined philosophies prevail. I was the undersheriff of a fairly large county for 10 years, and we, too, had ‘animal control’ foisted on us. We were neither equipped nor inclined to run a humane shelter and foster adoptions, and almost all the found, abandoned and discarded pets were killed in short order. Even the department employees assigned there thought it a rotten job. Nonetheless, if the feeling is that’s the way to proceed, then leave things alone. If not, I would urge commissioners to take the bull by the horns – or the dog by the gail – and make the change. It’s no slap against the sheriff. He’s a police administrator and I doubt that moving the animal shelter to a non law enforcement setting is going to have anything but a beneficial effect on his department in the long run. The two agencies can cooperate as needed. As for the financial aspects of creating a new agency, much of the work is already being done. The money, or a good share of it, is obviously already there. It can be worked out. Bill Voigt, Hastings People should have had a say on health reform To the editor: When and how did the government become so out of touch with the common people? The new health care program just proves they are fat cats who no longer work for the people but instead cater to increasing health insurance company’s clientele and profits. Do they actually think that the poor are sitting on piles of money and refuse to purchase health insurance? Everyone would purchase health insurance if they could, but to keep a roof over our heads and not starve to death seems more important to many of us. So if we do not invest in the government’s partners in crime, they will punish us with penalizing our income taxes? I’ve seen this before on television where the street thug tells the storeowner to purchase his “protection insurance” or he will bust up the store. Is that what our government has become – common street thugs? Pay me now or pay for it later, you have no choice? Are our politicians so deeply into the pock- et of these health insurance carriers that they must now force all of America to pay them or be punished, even if we cannot afford it? When did this country change to a communist rule so “we the people” no longer have a voice or vote on such a big decision that affects all of Americans? If this country really is the “land of the free” all Americans should be able to place a vote of “no confidence” in their government, kick out all those fat cats who voted for such nonsense and elect officials who will put in a countrywide health care system paid for by the government drug taxes, like Canada now has. Until people with common sense are elected into office, the voice of the poor will fall on deaf ears of the elected officials who already have income and health insurance and could care less about you – the people who pay their salary. Darren Ayles, Nashville. 6/19/12 My name is Julie L. Jarvis and I apologize for not being at the Commissioners meeting in person or at least getting this material to you prior, but a family member of a dear friend and I needed to pay her a visit so these thoughts come to you via a letter. First and foremost, congratulations to the Barry County Humane Society for their diligent work on receiving a grant now in place to promote the SPAY/NEUTER program. We applaud your work on behalf of ALL the dogs and cats you will be saving. Thank you to Dr. Linda Robinson, Dr. David Seidl, Dr. Gayle Luedke and Dr. Amy Hicswa for participating in this very worthwhile program. By putting your continued efforts together for the next Grant and so on, YOU, the Barry County Humane Society, will become a mentor to other branches whom wish to accomplish the same. Then there is the dog park, in school teachings of proper caring for your pets, and possibly veterinarian visits to schools if not already done. Businesses who deal specifically in dog and cat foods such as Purina, Pedigree, Iams, Science Diet, Tractor Supply and/or Pet Smart may be willing, even though we are in tough economic times, to help. For as they give, they will also receive, FIRST by the act of giving, then by the pet owners who become aware of their generosity...and we know word of mouth can do much, as an asset or a detriment. (A THANK YOU AD WRITTEN WITH APPRECIATION AND IMAGINATION FROM ALL THE ANIMALS SAVED COULD BE A PLUS)...for businesses, the newspaper and the like. So much good you will continue to accomplish! A friend of mine and I came up with this idea which is as follows: could we not address to each of the FOUR veterinarians participating in the SPAY/NEUTER HUMANE SOCIETY GRANT program an IDEA proposing that EACH VETERINARIAN SELECTIVELY GIVE ONE OR TWO DAYS A YEAR (EXTRA AS A SPAY/NEUTER DAY), ALLOTTING EACH PERSON THAT BRINGS A PET IN TO BE SERVICED MUST PUT SOME MONETARY EFFORT FORWARD WITH VETERINARY ROTATION IN PLACE. Every three months was mentioned by a young woman I had spoken to. This would encompass a year as well with veterinary rotation in place. To keep the CENSUS DOWN ON EUTHANASIA we need a LARGER running SPAY/NEUTER program. The other day someone asked me, “What ever happened to compromise?” I could find no answer, except to say it seems to be lost! There are times in life when understanding cannot be found. Since we all view things differently, RESPECT would then come to the fore. Each part of this community has a responsibility to carry what they can and to do so with grace. The Barry County Animal Control and its people have one of the hardest jobs in our county. Remember, I said ONE...yes we know there are many. They have to try and help undo what we as people have foisted upon the animals that enter that building. Yes, many can’t be undone. SPAY/NEUTER... thus euthanasia takes place. The inmate program from our JAIL to Barry County Animal Control has been proven to be therapeutic and where liability has its place between the two. I was blessed once some time ago to be a part of the Barry County Sheriff’s Office VSU. During that time frame, a young man spoke with me about his positive experience in entering the inmate program that reached from our JAIL to Animal Control. He kept that positive outlook and told me of his future aspirations as he was readying to be released. The only reason I was allowed to assist during that time frame was because of the Victim Service Unit Training. All inmates don’t aspire to leave their jail surroundings as this young man did. Each UNIT has its SPECIAL PLACE in HELPING create a better future for ALL dogs and cats. With MORE SPAYING/NEUTERING there will obviously be LESS euthanasia. ISN’T THAT THE COMMON GOAL??? Thank You, Julie L. Jarvis 77569075 �Page 6 — Thursday, July 5, 2012 — The Hastings Banner See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits Worship Together… Area Obituaries Kenneth Wayne VanDenburg 77569054 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 . ORANGEVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH 6921 Marsh Rd., 2 miles south of Gun Lake, Plainwell. Phone 269664-4377. OrangevilleBaptist.org. Pastors Dan Bowman and Adam Parmenter. Sundays - 9:45-10:45 a.m. Sunday school classes for age 2 through adults; 11 a.m. Summer messages: “God’s Ten Words For a Vital Spiritual Life” (The Ten Commandments); 5:30 p.m. Teen Word of Life Club; 6 p.m. “Guard the Gospel” A study of 2 Timothy. Wednesdays - 7 p.m. prayer; 8:30 p.m. Men’s Bible Study. MondayFriday - July 9-13 - 9:30 a.m.-noon, Vacation Bible School, age 5-7th grade with Uncle Al Torres - RBM Minstries. Sunday, July 15 - Guest speaker, Dr. Eldon Stevens. Sunday, August 19 - Summer concert. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Rev. Ryan Wieland. Sundays - 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Service; Sunday School and Nursery available during both services (Summer Schedule - Adult Sunday School: 9 a.m., Worship & Children’s Programs 10 a.m.) Youth Group, Covenant Prayer, Choir, Chimes, Praise Band, Quilting Group, Community Breakfasts and more! Call the church office at (269) 721-8077 (M/W/F 9 a.m.-12 p.m.), e-mail office@mei.net or visit www.countrychapelumc.org <http://www.countrychapelumc.org/> for more information SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 9:15 Contemporary Worship, 10:30 a.m. Refreshments, 11 a.m. Traditional Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Youth Pastor, Eric Gillespie. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. for children and youth, and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Junior & Senior High Youth Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Mid-Week Pioneers and adult classes return in September. Thursday: Senior Adult Bible Study at 10 a.m. and lunch at Wendy’s, 11:30 a.m. Vacation Bible School: Wed. & Thurs., July 25 & 26, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Sunday, July 8 - Summer Hours . Worship at 8 and 10 a.m. July 8 Noisy Offering for Love, Inc.; Evangelism Committee Meeting after Second Service; Men’s Alcoholics Anonymous 7 p.m. July 9 - Spiritual Alcoholics Anonymous 7:30 p.m. July 10 - Vision Team/Vision Planning 7 p.m. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 945-2645, fax 269945-2698. Pastor Amy Luckey. http://www.discover-grace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot.com. Friday - 9 a.m. Golfer’s Group Meets; 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday - 4 p.m Pickleball; 6:30 p.m. Softball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Tuesday - 6:30 p.m. Softball. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Lauer Family Funeral Homes 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings Fiberglass Products 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 HASTINGS, MI - Kenneth Wayne VanDenburg, age 86, of Hastings passed away June 28, 2012 at his residence. He was born October 22, 1925 in Hastings the son of George and Ruth (Schiefla) VanDenburg. Ken attended and graduated from Hastings High School. Ken enlisted in the Navy March 3, 1944. After boot training his second assignment was aboard the USS Wasp. It should be noted that there was an aircraft carrier USS Wasp (CV7) which was sunk Sept. 15, 1942. It was traveling with the USS Hornet (CV8) and 11 other warships escorting transports carrying Marines to Guadalcanal. Shortly before 3 p.m. the Wasp was struck by two torpedoes from a Japanese submarine not far from San Cristobal Island. By 4 p.m. Capt. Sherman determined that he was the last man alive on the vessel, and was the last man to leave. The Wasp finally sank about 9 p.m. There were 193 men killed, 1,946 rescued. The aircraft carrier Saratoga had been severely damaged by Japanese torpedoes and was out of commission for several months, leaving only the aircraft carriers Hornet and Enterprise active in the Pacific, and the Enterprise was barely serviceable. So, two and one half years later found Ken serving on a second Wasp. This Wasp (CCD-3) was hit by a suicide bomber which put a bomb through the hangar deck March 19, 1945, but the vessel remained in action. It was later blown up and sank near Hawaii. After this Ken saw some action on the aircraft carrier USS Bennington, which was launched on the east coast in late 1944 and was at Pearl Harbor in early 1945. It saw considerable excitement off the coast of Japan, Leyte and Iwo Jima. The Bennington endured a typhoon June 5 with winds over 90 mph and waves up to 50 feet high and of such strength that the buckled a 35 foot section of the flight deck. Ken’s specialty aboard ship was radio operator, and his nickname on the Bennington was “Speedy”. Seaman 1st Class VanDenburg returned to the states aboard the Bennington to be discharged May 5, 1946, at Great Lakes Naval Station. He earned the Asiatic-Pacific Theater Campaign Medal with three Bronze Stars, the American Ara Campaign Medal and the Victory Medal. Sometime in the next 21 months he married, and then on Feb. 21, 1948 enlisted in the Army at Dearborn. He served nearly 10 months with the 7th Infantry Regiment at Fort Devens, Mass., and was discharged as a private first class Dec. 15, 1948 at Fort Bank, Mass. Between his enlistments he farmed, and his first marriage produced five children, Terry, Kenneth, Michael, Karen and Darrell. In 1973 he married Klasiena Stamm, now there would also be Robert, Cynthia, Bonnie and James. He was a man of many talents, he did factory work, auto body repair, painted cars and planes. Ken played guitar and ukulele and was a great singer. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, working on the farm, cutting wood, playing pool and bowling. Ken enjoyed traveling with family, seeing all 50 states except Alaska. He especially enjoyed traveling to northern Michigan. Ken is survived by his wife Klasiena M. VanDenburg of Hastings; children, Ken VanDenburg, Terry VanDenburg, Michael (Mary) VanDenburg, Darrell (Bambi) VanDenburg and Karen Aspinall, Robert (Barbara) Afman, Cynthia Lake, Bonnie Meyers, James (Angie) Raulston and grandchildren, George, Tina, Wayne, Terry, Jeremy, Beth, April, Kerri Jo, Kenna, Tressa, Nicolette, Becky, Barb, Kasey, Owen, Klasiena, Dave Jr, James and Jamie. Memorial contributions may be made to: Lawrence J. Bauer American Legion Post #45, 2160 S. M-37 Hwy., Hastings, MI 49058. A graveside memorial service with full military honors, will be held, Saturday, July 14, 2012 at 1 p.m. at Rutland Township Cemetery, Rutland Township. A luncheon will immediately follow the service at the Hastings Moose Lodge, 128 N. Michigan, Hastings. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message for the family. Catherine Ann (Katy) Shepler WOODLAND, MI - Catherine Ann (Katy) Shepler, age 50, of Woodland, passed away at her home Friday, June 22, 2012. Katy was born April 9, 1962 at Pennock Hospital in Hastings to Arthur Shepler and Nella (Lyons) Shepler. She attended Hastings High School and graduated in 1980. Katy worked at Hastings Mutual Insurance after high school and after moving to Grand Rapids worked for Foremost Insurance for several years. She was preceded in death by her father, Arthur in 2005 and mother, Nella in 1985. Katy is survived by her brother, Dan (Mindy) Shepler of Hastings; sister, Janet Shepler of Grand Ledge; sister, Judy (Keith) Johnson of Mission Viejo, CA; former sisterin-law, Sherry Henk of Marne; nieces, Stacy (David) Kensington of Hastings, Jennifer (Wes) Casarez of Hastings; nephews, Stephen (Kari) Shepler of Hastings, Jason and Sean Johnson of California; and several great nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her loving and devoted longtime companion, Steve Stanger of Woodland. Katy loved her cats: Creamie, Spidie and Goatie. Special thanks goes to Dr. Seidl and his staff for their wonderful care of her beloved cats. For those wishing to do so, memorial contributions can be made to Barry County Animal Control, 540 N. Industrial Park Dr., Hastings, MI 49058 to help support their shelter work and adoption services. No formal services will be held. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message for the family. Mable Marie Osis HASTINGS, MI - Mable Marie Osis, age 92, of Hastings passed away Saturday, June 23, 2012 in Hastings. She was born January 10, 1920 in Canora, Canada the daughter of Lawrence W. and Bertha T. (Norris) Snodgrass. She attended Norway School in Canada. Mable moved to Dowagiac, MI in 1940, lived in Battle Creek, for four years and then moved to Hastings in 1945. She married James A. Osis on June 22, 1955. They were married for 36 years. Jim later passed in June of 1991. Mable enjoyed shopping and traveling and playing pool, when Jim was still alive. She is survived by nieces, Marianne Collier of Grand Rapids, and Muriel (Russ) Moleski of Saskatchewan, Canada; many great nieces and nephews and special friends, Ray (Deb) Girrbach; Heather (Matt) Schultz; Chad Girrbach and Haley Girrbach of Hastings. Following Mable’s wishes, cremation has taken place and no services are being held. Special thank you to Sharon Yoder and staff and MagnumCare for taking such good care of Mable over the years. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to leave a message or memory to the family. Reverend Richard Lee Myers GAYLORD, MI - Reverend Richard Lee Myers, age 75, of Gaylord, passed away June 24, 2012 in Hastings. He was born on August 30, 1936 in Hastings, son of Floyd and Virginia (Gilding) Myers. He graduated from Hastings High School in 1954, Otterbein College in Westerville, OH in 1958 and the United Theological Seminary in Dayton, OH in 1961. Reverend Myers’ career as a minister, from 1961 through 1998, included serving the churches Ludington Grace, Berrien Springs, Horton Bay, Howell, Detroit Waterman, Richmond, Sterling Heights, Dearborn First, Waterford Central and Wyandotte First. He retired from the Detroit Conference of the United Methodist Church in 1998 to his northern home in Gaylord. Dick was an avid birder, co-founder of Whitefish Point Bird Observatory and past president of Michigan Audubon. He was active in many environmental issues and loved the outdoors, including hunting, hiking, backpacking and mountain climbing. He is survived by his wife, Linda (Thomas) Myers of Gaylord and his children, Andrew (Michaela) Myers of Ithaca, NY, Christopher (Jennifer) Myers of San Diego, CA, Kirk Myers of Dearborn, Michele (William) Crawford of Snohomish, WA and Cheryl (James) Nickolaou of Clarkston; seven grandchildren and one great grandson; brothers, Ronald (Jo Ellyn) Myers of Middleville, and Philip (Judy) Myers of Hastings. Contributions may be made in his memory to Whitefish Point Bird Observatory, 16914 Whitefish Point Road, Paradise, MI 49768. A memorial service is planned for August 11, 2012 at noon, Hope United Methodist Church, 2920 S. M-37 Hwy., Hastings. Reverend Myers touched many lives through his ministry and love of the outdoors. He will be missed greatly. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message for the family. Local volunteer steward workdays planned The calendar for volunteer steward opportunities in Southwest and Southeast Michigan through September is online now. It includes many dates to give back at Yankee Springs Recreation Area, Fort Custer Recreation Area, Ionia State Recreation Area, Warren Dunes State Park, Warren Woods State Park, Grand Mere State Park, P.J. Hoffmaster State Park, Muskegon State Park or Saugatuck Dunes State Park. ‘Please join in for a great time outdoors,” said Heidi Frei, Michigan Department of Natural Resources steward for Southwest Michigan. “Attending a workday is also great training, looks great on a resume and is a good way to become a regular steward.” Local workdays include: Saturday, July 14; 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Ionia State Recreation Area. Help remove invasive shrubs encroaching on our beautiful forests surrounding Sessions Lake. Volunteers are needed to help cut and remove honeysuckle, barberry, autumn olive and other unwelcome plants to help native flora thrive. Volunteers will take a short hike along the Sessions Lake trail to the work location near Sessions Creek. Meet at the peninsula picnic area, past the mountain bike trailhead and before the campground. Saturday, July 21; 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Yankee Springs Recreation Area. Invasive shrub work to protect habitats near Deep Lake continues. Volunteers are needed to help cut and remove unwanted shrubs, such as buckthorn and honeysuckle. No experience is necessary and volunteers will be trained to identify unwanted invaders. Meet at the Deep Lake trail access off of Hart Road (gravel road). Travel west on Hart from Yankee Springs Road for about a half mile to the work location. Parking will be available on the side of the Hart. Advance registration is always appreciated and can be done online at www.michigan.gov/documents/3145_171017_7.pdf for one or more workdays. “Feel free to call, email or just show up to a workday if short notice doesn’t allow for the standard registration process,” said Frei. Volunteer stewards will learn about Michigan's plants animals and ecosystems and feel a sense of accomplishment in helping to restore native ecosystems, she added. Stewards will learn and work alongside natural resource professionals. In addition, participating in ecological restoration activities will provide a great opportunity to get outside and enjoy fresh air and exercise. GET MORE NEWS! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. �BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY by Gerald Stein NORTH N: A 6 M: A K 5 2 L: A Q J 9 K: A Q 6 WEST N: Q 3 M: Q 10 4 3 L: 10 8 5 4 3 2 K: 5 Social News The Hastings Banner — Thursday, July 5, 2012 — Page 7 Newborn Babies Marriage Licenses EAST N: 9 8 5 2 M: 6 L: 7 6 K: K 10 9 8 3 2 SOUTH: Vulnerable: None L Lead: 7L North East South K 2K 6NT Pass Pass N 2N Pass West Pass Pass Pass Call anytime for Hastings Banner ads 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 269-967-8241 Immediate Openings RN/LPN PRIVATE DUTY 77568328 In today’s column, the North-South pair used a number of bridge components that helped to get them to the coveted contract of Six No Trump. Good bidding by North and South, a good Plan by North, and good Play of the Hand by North brought home the slam contract. K was a telling bid. “Partner,” said North, “because we play a Strong North’s first bid of 2K Two Club bid in Standard American, and we leave Two Diamonds, Two Hearts, and Two Spades for the Weak Two Bids, you know that I have in my hand 22 or more high card points, and I am forcing you to bid.” South has a ready answer: “Yes, Partner, I know what you are telling me; you have 22 plus L, an artipoints and you want me to bid. My normal bid on such a hand from you would be 2L ficial bid that says nothing about diamonds, but is most commonly known as a waiting bid. I would be waiting for you to describe your hand. This time, however, happily I have nine high N.” card points and a good five-card major suit to tell you about. I bid 2N North is delighted to hear from his partner South, and without hesitation, North bids Six No Trump. The contract is set, and North is the declarer with most of the points in the closed hand. Looking at his cards, North sees 24 high card points, while South has nine high card points for a total of 33, a recognized number of points needed for a small slam. The seven outstanding points in the East-West hands are divided, but North does not yet know where everything is. L, the top of a doubleton, signaling her partner West that she has The lead from East is the 7L M have been a better lead? Think about that for a only two diamonds. Would the singleton 6M minute. The dummy comes down, and North duly thanks his partner for the promised cards in her bid. North takes a moment to make his plan: his objective is 12 of the 13 tricks. He may lose only one trick to the opponents. His first plan is to count all of his winners. With the diamond lead, he counts four diamond winners; he has two heart winners; he has two spade winners; and he has one club winner for a total of nine certain winners. He will have to develop or promote three more winners to make his contract. South’s spade suit looks like the best possible source of three additional tricks. North, still making his plan, has to look further at the spade suit. With seven spades and length in the spade suit in the dummy, it looks to be a better choice than trying to get two extra tricks out of the hearts. With that thought settled, North wonders about the split of the spade suit: with six spades out against him, how will the spades split? He knows that typically the N to spades will split 4-2 with an even number of cards held by the opponents. Going for the QN drop would be a long shot; yet it might bring home all 13 tricks if it worked. The Safety Play, however, will assure the contract. What is the Safety Play that North has in mind? After winning the opening diamond lead, N and that North knows that to set up the spades that he will have to hope that West has the QN N from the dummy that West will automatically cover the honor with an when he leads the JN N on the JN N. If, however, West plays low smoothly, then North will play his honor, putting the QN N, saving the 6N N as an entry. North has no other established entries to the dummy hand except AN N. Either way, North’s main hope to make the contract is to get the QN N to cover the JN N or the KN N on the KN N. It will do North no good to finesse the QN N with the JN N. It will lose to drop the QN to the singleton Queen, and North will not make the contract for their team because he will be unable to get back to the dummy to use the three remaining good spades. N and made life easy for North, and he was able As it turns out, some defenders covered the JN N to take five spade tricks as planned. However, some defenders played low smoothly on the JN N Now he must go for the QN N to drop on the and North was forced to take the trick with his AN N, and it does. After taking the 10N N, North executes an end play by leading one of his two KN K, and this remaining spades. West wins, but then is end-played. He must lead away from the KK K as a new entry winning the trick and then playing the 4th spade winner. lets North use the JK Now instead of five spade winners, North has only four, but he has a new winner in the club suit. The results are still the same. The contract makes either way. Once the spade dilemma has been solved, the rest is elementary with five or four spade tricks, two heart tricks, four diamond tricks, and one or two club trick for 12 tricks and the small slam contract. Well done, North and South, on bidding, planning, and playing the contract at Six No Trump. ***** Today’s bridge question: On today’s hand, 13 tricks can be won by the North player. Using the five spades and four diamonds as known winners, where does the extra trick come from to make Seven No Trump? ***** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) (Johnson) and Dick Shriver were married in Hastings. They have been longtime residents of Hastings and attend the Bible Missionary Church here in town and enjoy being involved with their mission work within Michigan. Come and celebrate with them on Saturday, July 14th, (home of daughter and son-in-law) at 2841 Hammond Road from 2 to 4:30. (Turn north off State Road near River Bend Golf Course, watch for signs). They are the parents of Larry Shriver of Hastings, Linda (Al) Weyerman, and Teresa Smith of Gowen. Grandparents to Paul Cooley of Belding and great grandparents to Nate and Matt. They look forward to the gift of your fellowship as they celebrate. Timothy Mark Harmon, Hastings and Renee Eileen Olinger, Hastings. Joseph Nicholas d’Angelo, Freeport and Natasha Lee Eickhoff, Freeport Richard Allen Hardman, South Bend, IN and Robin Lynne Woody, Dowling. Brian Michael Walter Sheehy, New Orleans, LA and Ashley Nicole Bunge, Newa Orleans, LA. Lance Stuart McIlvain, Hastings and Susan Irene Parker-Smith, Hickory Corners. Daven Williams Winans, Delton and Leanne Marie Pratt, Hastings. Andra Alexander Liceaga, Hastings and Kristin Jo Matteson, Hastings. Trinity James Loy, Nashville and Kathy Jean Rollins, Nashville. Richard Allen Hyvarinen, Hastings and Sarah Michelle Parkes, Thamsford, Ontario. Nashville, Marshall, Springport, Jackson BARRY COUNTY Area TEA PARTY MEETING Trach / Vent Experience Preferred Please Send Resume to: recruiter@optimalstaffing.com Or Fax to: 517-394-7716 7:00 pm • Tuesday, July 10th Speaker: Victor Diaz, GOP ® Middle Villa Inn 4611 North M-37, Middleville Gary L. Munson 269-623-8464 The TWO BROTHERS AND A TENT For All Your Tent Rental Needs Tables and chairs available. Call: Dan McKinney 269-838-7057 or Tom McKinney 269-838-3842 77564841 Dealer: West Shrivers celebrate 60th anniversary 77569069 N: K J 10 7 4 M: J 9 8 7 L: K K: J 7 4 TWINS, Willow Eileen and Winston Clare, born at Pennock Hospital on June 11, 2012 to Melissa Roth of Lake Odessa. Willow was born at 7:48 a.m. and weighed 6 lbs. 11 ozs. and was 20 1/2 inches long. Winston was born at 7:49 a.m. and weighed 6 lbs. 8 ozs. and was 19 3/4 inches long. ***** Alison Rose, born at Pennock Hospital on June 18, 2012 at 9:07 a.m. to Lorrie and Brad Bush of Martin. Weighing 11 lbs. 8 ozs. and 21 inches long. ***** Nathaniel Dale, born at Pennock Hospital on June 18, 2012 at 4:05 a.m. to Gina Tobias and Alex Morales of Sunfield. Weighing 6 lbs. 10 ozs. and 19 inches long. 77566915 Area Locations to purchase the Hastings Banner! Middleville: Speedway Middleville Marketplace Greg’s Get-It-N-Go Shell Cloverdale: Cloverdale General Brown’s Cedar Creek Grocery Gun Lake: Sam’s Gourmet Foods Gun Lake Amoco Gun Lake Shell Delton: Felpausch Michigan Short Stop Shell Banfield: Banfield General Store Orangeville: Orangeville Fast Stop Lacey: Clyde’s Sportsman Post Pine Lake: Pine Lake Grocery Dowling: Goldsworthys Dowling General Store Prairieville: Prairieville Fast Stop Woodland: Woodland Express Nashville: Trading Post Little’s Country Store Shell MV Pharmacy Nashville C Store Carl’s Lake Odessa: Lake-O-Express Lake-O-Mart Shell Carl’s Freeport: L & J’s Freeport Milling Shelbyville: Weick’s Food Town The Store at Southshore 77566089 77569212 Hastings: One Stop Shop (BP) (M-43 North) Tom’s Market Superette Family Fare One Stop Food (BP) (M-37 South) Hastings Speedy Mart (Shell) Bosley Admiral Penn-Nook Gift Shop P.B. Gas Station (W. State St.) BP Gas Station (M-37 West) Xpress Mart Family Fare Gas Station Woody’s General Store �Page 8 — Thursday, July 5, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Monday is last day to register for August primary Residents have until Monday, July 9, to register to vote in the Aug. 7 state primary election. “If you are not yet registered and want to participate in the upcoming statewide elections, the time to register is now,” said Secretary of State Ruth Johnson, Michigan’s chief election officer. “Please take a few moments to stop by your local clerk’s office or secretary of state office to fill out the voter registration form. We want to ensure that every citizen who wants to do so has their vote count and their voice heard on Election Day.” To register, applicants must be at least 18 years old by Election Day and be U.S. citizens. Applicants must also be residents of Michigan and of the city or township in which they wish to register. Voters may register by mail, at their county, city or township clerk’s office or by visiting any Secretary of State office. The mail-in form is available online at www.michigan.gov/elections. To check their registration status, residents may visit the Michigan Voter Information Center at www.michigan.gov/vote. Residents can also find information there on absentee voting, For more information about voting and the secretary of state’s office, visit www.michigan.gov/sos. Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of EDWARD JONES Work toward your own financial Independence Day Once again, Independence Day is here, bringing fireworks and barbeques. Of course, the 4th of July is more than hoopla — it’s a time to reflect on the many freedoms we enjoy in this country. Yet, for many people, one important type of freedom — financial freedom — is still elusive. So you may want to use this holiday as an occasion to think of those steps you can take to eventually declare your own Financial Independence Day. Here are some moves that can help: • Create a strategy. Financial freedom doesn’t just happen — it takes planning, patience and perseverance. To work toward your financial independence, you’ll need to create a financial strategy, in conjunction with your financial advisor, and stick to that strategy. Over time, you’ll need to make adjustments, but if your overall strategy is appropriate for your goals, time horizon and risk ANIMAL CONTROL, from page 1 from space and security consultants on how to upgrade both facilities. “Barry County is one of the least secure courthouses in the state of Michigan,” Court Administrator Bob Nida reminded commissioners. • Recommended the appointment of Stolsonburg to serve on the agricultural preservation board. • Recommended the appointment of Joy Mulder to the agricultural preservation board. • Recommended a revised fee schedule for requested land information services to bring the county closer in line to neighboring counties and to market expectations. Requests, according to Director David Shinavier, often come from major marketing companies seeking such items as delinquent tax records and property maps. • Recommended approval of a $9,100 contract with Netech Inc., for a countywide network security assessment, with funds to be paid from a federal grant deposited to the data processing fund. • Recommended payment of a $612 bill to Drug and Laboratory Disposal for cleanup service in April of a methamphetamine lab. County Administrator Michael Brown groused about denial of a previous reimbursement claim made to the Environmental Protection Agency for more than $6,000. “Effectively, what they have told us is that the funding is a funding of last resort,” said Brown; “that, if we have funds that do not need to be replaced, then we will not be reimbursed. Cheryl Hartwell, the sheriff’s administrator, put it very well when she replied that if we took funds from some place that had to be replaced that really would be inappropriate. “The other side of this is you have to effectively show that you’re spending money you don’t have, and the reality is we’re not in that situation. That is not what we understood when we applied for the funds.” Commissioners recommended that the bill be paid from the diverted felons fund. HOPE TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Hope Township Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing upon the following described matters on Thursday, July 19, 2012 at 7:00 PM at the Hope Township Offices at 5463 South M-43 Highway: The Planning Commission has drafted revisions to Article IX of the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance, pertaining to Signs and Billboards. The draft revisions would have the following effect: 1. Definitions would be included for each sign type regulated by the ordinance. 2. A purpose and intent statement and a description of the scope of the ordinance would be included. 3. General provisions would govern sign illumination and sign location on a property. 4. The ordinance would enumerate signs not requiring a permit and prohibited signs. 5. Supplementary regulations would govern temporary banner signs, changeable copy signs, parking area or directional signs, and farm signs. 6. Billboards would become special exception uses permitted in the C-3 and I Districts. 7. New maximum sign area limitations and sign height limitations would be included. Written comments will be received from any interested persons concerning the foregoing by the Hope Township Clerk at the Hope Township Offices at any time during regular business hours up to the date of the hearing and may further be received by the Planning Commission at the hearing. Anyone interested in reviewing the draft ordinance, the current Hope Township Zoning Ordinance, or other information in connection with this matter may do so at the Hope Township Offices during regular business hours and may further examine the same at the public hearing. The Township of Hope will provide necessary auxiliary aides and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed material being considered at the hearing, to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon four (4) days notice to the Hope Township Clerk. Hope Township 5463 South M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058 269.948.2464 77569132 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED ZONING AMENDMENTS Notice is hereby given that the Barry County Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing on the Barry County Zoning Ordinance of 2008 that the following article will be considered for amendment: A-5-2012 Under Article 7, Section 704 – Table of Land Uses – Add the following: Add to - Day Care, Group (7-12 clients) as an “S” – Special Land Use under the RR and A zoning districts. Under Article 11, Section 1102, RR zoning district - Special Land Uses Heat has long puzzled science by Dr. E. Kirsten Peters Hot enough for you? I’ve been thinking about heat lately, and not just because of the nation’s mostly torrid weather. We all can easily verify that hot air rises — when you change a light bulb near the ceiling of your living room, you find the air up there is warmer than it is near the floor. Another fact about heat rests on a simple experiment. If you rub your palms together you’ll feel some warmth. Then, if you bear down on your hands, pressing them together hard, you’ll create quite a bit of heat. Early scientists tried to understand the basic facts of heat with general theories. One such theory stated that heat was something like a fluid. After all, it seemed that it could flow from warm bodies into cold ones, equalizing over time so that both were at the same temperature. It sometimes affected the size of the bodies it inhabited, for example making hot air take up more volume than cold air, creating the reason that hot air rises. But heat was an odd substance in some ways. It had no mass, a fact verified by weighing a solid object, then heating it up, and finding it still weighed the same. Benjamin Thompson was an early scientist who studied heat. Born in 1753 in Massachusetts, he later moved to continental Europe where he was ultimately named Count Rumford of the Holy Roman Empire in recognition of his scientific accomplishments. Count Rumford is famous in the history of science for a heat experiment. Back in his day, it was known that boring (grinding) out cannons made for a great deal of heat. Count Rumford immersed a cannon in a water bath, then ground out the hole as he measured the rise in temperature of the water. The change was so great the water actually boiled after 2 1/2 hours of the heavy work. Count Rumford argued that the heat wasn’t a fluid at all, but something quite different that had been created by the vigorous motion of the grinding. Count Rumford’s work revived a theory of heat that had been put forward much earlier by Francis Bacon. As Bacon had put it, the “very essence of heat is motion and nothing less.” Heat and cold garnered Bacon’s attention in a way that may have cost him his life. As the story has it, he was riding in a coach in March 1626 when he had the idea that cooling meat might delay its decay. He gathered up some snow with his bare hands and stuffed it into poultry. Shortly after that experiment, it’s said that Bacon caught cold and then died of bronchitis. Bacon’s idea that heat was motion started to gain more adherents after Count Rumford’s work with the cannon. It fell to a man named James Prescott Joule to show that work of any kind can be transformed into heat. That included mechanical work — like rubbing your hands together or grinding out a cannon hole — or chemical work or electrical work. When heat became recognized as something that could be equated to work, the modern science of energy began to come into focus and the unit of energy we call a “joule” was not far off. Even apart from rubbing your hands together, you’ll be an example of energy relationships today as you go about your daily life. You’ll take in chemical energy from food. As you know, if you eat more than you expend, you’ll gain a little weight — fat that later can be converted into energy. No matter what else you do, you’ll burn energy today to meet the basic demands of keeping your body functioning. Even converting the food you eat into useful energy demands energy. So part of what you eat gets used up doing exactly that. Beyond maintaining yourself and digesting food, exercise can lead to significant energy expenditure. A gentle walk will use 150 to 300 calories per hour, while vigorous work such as running or shooting some hoops can burn 500 to 700 calories per hour. Best wishes managing your personal energy balance today. Remember, no matter how you do with it, you’ll come out ahead of Francis Bacon and his unfortunate experiment with the snow. Dr. E. Kirsten Peters, a native of the rural Northwest, was trained as a geologist at Princeton and Harvard universities. Follow her online at rockdoc.wsu.edu and on Twitter @RockDocWSU. This column is a service of the College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences at Washington State University. tolerance, it should help you get you to where you want to go. • Contribute as much as possible to your retirement plans. Each year, put in as much as you can afford to your 401(k) or similar employer-sponsored retirement plan, such as a 457(b) if you work for a state or local government or a 403(b) if you work for a school or other tax-exempt organization. These plans offer the potential for tax-deferred earnings, so your retirement funds can grow faster than if they were placed in an investment on which you paid taxes every year. Also, if you’re eligible, try to “max out” on your IRA every year. • Maintain adequate life insurance. If you have a family, you aren’t just thinking of your own financial independence — you have to think of theirs, too. And that’s why you need to maintain adequate life insurance, particularly during the years when your children are growing up. But even after they’ve left the home, you may find that life insurance can be valuable in providing retirement funds for your spouse, should anything happen to you. And if you have permanent life insurance, which contains an investment component, you can generally access the cash value, through policy loans or withdrawals, to help pay for your own retirement. • Protect yourself from long-term care costs. You may never need any type of longterm care, such as a stay in a nursing home or assistance from a home health aide, but if you do, the enormous costs can threaten your financial independence — and possibly even put an economic strain on your spouse or grown children. After all, the national average rate for a private room in a nursing home is more than $87,000 per year, according to the 2011 MetLife Market Survey of Nursing Home, Assisted Living, Adult Day Services, and Home Care Costs. And the national hourly rate for home health aides is $21, according to the same survey. Medicare typically pays very little of these costs, which puts the burden on you. Fortunately, some investment vehicles can help you deal with long-term care expenses. Consult with your financial advisor to determine which of these vehicles may be appropriate for your needs. A national holiday won’t be declared when you achieve your financial independence — but, for you, it will be a time well worth celebrating. So do what it takes to work toward the arrival of that happy day. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 34.96 +1.29 AT&T 36.20 +1.22 BP PLC 40.69 +2.88 CMS Energy Corp 23.59 +.43 Coca-Cola Co 78.92 +3.84 Eaton 39.21 +1.80 Family Dollar Stores 67.95 -2.57 Fifth Third Bancorp 13.50 +.63 Flowserve CP 115.29 +6.68 Ford Motor Co. 9.39 -.62 General Mills 38.98 +.83 General Motors 19.57 -.28 Intel Corp. 26.66 +.65 Kellogg Co. 49.45 +1.01 McDonald’s Corp 88.08 -1.02 Pfizer Inc. 23.02 -.60 Ralcorp 68.03 +1.91 Sears Holding 59.97 +4.69 Spartan Motors 5.37 +.45 Spartan Stores 18.49 +1.29 Stryker 54.67 +.85 TCF Financial 11.74 +.31 Walmart Stores 69.35 +.77 Gold $1598.65 +$25.27 Silver $27.53 +$.41 Dow Jones Average 12,871 +337 Volume on NYSE 692M +24M Add – “Day Care, Group” Under Article 19, Section 1903, Agriculture zoning district – Special Land Uses Add – “Day Care, Group” MEETING DATE: July 23, 2012 TIME: 7:00 PM PLACE: Community Room, Courts & Law Building at 206 West Court Street, Hastings, MI Interested persons desiring to present their views on the proposed amendment, either verbally or in writing will be given the opportunity to be heard at the above mentioned time and place. Any written response may be mailed to the address listed below, faxed to (269) 948-4820, or email to: jmcmanus@barrycounty.org. The proposed amendment to the Barry County Zoning Ordinance is available for public inspection at the Barry County Planning Office, 220 West State St., Hastings, Michigan 49058, between the hours of 8 AM to 5 PM (closed between 12-1 PM) Monday thru Friday. Please call the Barry County Planning Office at (269) 945-1290 for further information. The County of Barry will provide necessary auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audiotapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/ hearing upon ten (10) days notice to the County of Barry. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the County of Barry by writing or call the following: Michael Brown, County Administrator, 220 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, (269) 945-1284. 77569190 Pamela A. Jarvis, Barry County Clerk RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP NOTICE OF BOARD OF REVIEW Pursuant to provisions in MCL 211.7cc(19) the Board of Review will meet on Tuesday, July 17, 2012, at 9:00 AM, in the office of the Assessor at Rutland Charter Township Hall, 2461 Heath Road, Hastings, Michigan, to grant Homestead Exemption for 2011 to a parcel. Dennis McKelvey, Assessor RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP 2461 Heath Road Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 948-2194 See us for color copies, one-hour photo processing and all your printing needs. PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy., Hastings. Located in the gray barn 77569158 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, July 5, 2012 — Page 9 Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz concludes This is the final installment of a series reprinting the Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz promotion that ran in the Banner 60 years ago. An unidentified aerial photo of an area farm was pictured in the Banner each week, from Jan. 24 to July 17, 1952, and the owners of the mystery farms were featured in the paper the following week. The contest was sponsored by the Banner and 35 area merchants (listed in the April 12 edition of the Banner). ***** Hastings Banner, July 10, 1952 Lucky Farmer proud of large Holstein dairy herd The aerial photographer who took the “lucky photo” published in last week’s Banner was almost bound to snap a Bender farm when he flew over Section 28 of Thornapple Township west of Middleville. Four of the Bender brothers farm in the area. It was the farm of D. Forrest Bender which was pictured. His brothers, Walter, Russell and Ward also have farms in the immediate vicinity but the photographer unknowingly photographed the farm the boys’ father, Phillip, purchased just before World War II. The farm is known as the former Thomas Heaney property on the Bender Road. Forrest’s farm, like most of the others in the area, is literally a beautiful establishment on relatively level land. The fine buildings are well kept up – they were all hand painted last year, the barn and outbuildings in red and the large modernized home in white with green trim. Forrest specializes in dairying, and is proud of his herd of 40 Holsteins, and he’s now milking 22 for the Grand Rapids Grade A market. He has been building his herd since starting in farming and uses artificial insemination from Wisconsin stock. Forrest was born March 9, 1904, in Kent County near Dutton, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Bender. His mother is still living and resides in Middleville. His father passed away about five years ago. Forrest went to country school near Dutton and to the Prairie district school. His formal education ended for a time after he completed eighth grade. Forrest took the place of a hired man, but later took two short courses in general agriculture at Michigan State College. They were 16-week terms. Several years later, he took a 10-week dairy course at MSC. In between the general ag and dairy courses, Forrest worked on a farm in Ontario, Canada. Before he married the former Anne Reid, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Reid, of Hespeler, Ontario, on Dec. 8, 1928, he operated a Dairy Herd Improvement Association in Kent County. Later, when 23 years old, he went farming on his own and then was married. He had met Anne in Canada while visiting his mother’s folks. Forrest had had an operation and went to Canada to recuperate. His first farm was south and west of his present place, known as the old Coman farm where he rented 120 acres. He also rented 80 acres from Mrs. Ernest Rosenberg, of Alto – land he still works along with his own 120. He rented the Coman farm for about nine years before renting his present farm from his dad. He bought in 1944. The Bender’s 80-by-50 dairy barn is a basement-type barn with concrete floors, stanchions, automatic gutter cleaner installed two years ago and has the other advantages that go along with modern barns. The calf pens are steel paneled. Forrest fills his silo early with grass silage and uses the feed in late summer months, refilling the silo with corn. Wheat is also raised for a cash crop, and this year Forrest has put in about 40 acres. He has 31 acres of corn – his lowest acreage in a long time – and 42 acres of oats and the rest in hay and pasture. He uses a four-year rotation and has no waste land. Forrest always has raised more feed than he needs. His productive land has always been kept up. He keeps swine, and finishes about 25 twice a year. He had 850 chickens last week, but half were to go to market. The Benders keep about 300 laying hens. Forrest has two tractors, a truck combine, and other necessary machinery. He and his three brothers have a field chopper which they use jointly. The Benders have three sons. The oldest, Clare, 21, is now home on furlough. Stationed in England with the Air Force, he flew home and was married Saturday to Helen Ross, also of Ontario. He met her on a visit. Helen is returning to England with Clare and they expect to sail July 16 from Quebec. Their other sons are John, 16, who will be a junior at Middleville’s T-K school next fall and Kenneth, 12, who will be in the seventh grade. In addition to his three farmer brothers, he has another brother, Elmer “Mike” Bender, of Middleville, and two sisters, Mrs. Maynard (Edna) Miller, of Hopkins, and Mrs. King (Florence) Dickerson, of Grand Rapids. ***** Hastings Banner, July 17, 1952 Howard Moores win final lucky farmer photo quiz Mr. and Mrs. Howard W. Moore, Route 1, Dowling, who were married June 18, 1922, didn’t celebrate their 30th anniversary this year in the regular manner, so when their farm was pictured in the lucky farmer photo quiz in last week’s Banner, they decided that would serve to mark their jubilee. The Moore farm was the final in the series of 26 farms published week by week in the Banner. Each week, an aerial photograph of a Barry agricultural institution – taken at random – was reproduced. Farmers identified their farms – generally they learned from friends and relatives that their Barry County NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON THE CLOSE OUT OF BARRY COUNTY’S MICHIGAN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) PROJECT, MSC 209060 Barry County will conduct a public hearing as part of their regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, July 10, 2012 at 9:00 am at the Barry County Commission Chamber on the Mezzanine Level of the Courthouse, 220 W. State Street, Hastings, MI 49058 for the purpose of affording citizens an opportunity to submit comments on the proposed close out of Barry County CDBG project. Comments may be submitted in writing through July 10, 2012 or made in person at the public hearing. Citizen views and comments on the proposed close out are welcome. Barry County 220 W. State Street Hastings, MI 49058 Heather Smith (269) 945-3449 77569226 THREE-IN-ONE BUILDING – D. Forrest Bender, whose farm was pictured in last week’s Banner as the winner of the weekly Lucky Farmer Photo Quiz, is pictured with his truck in the driveway of his three-in-one utility building. The building’s basement houses his flock of chickens, the two sides are corn cribs and the center is used as a machinery storage shed. – Photo by Barth. farms were pictured in the Banner before the mailman delivered their own copies – and as a reward were presented leather-bound photographs and 35 gifts certificates valued at $1 each offered by the 35 merchants who joined with the Banner in sponsoring the contest. Gift certificates presented had an aggregate value of $915 to the 26 farm families. A variety of agricultural establishments were included in the series – some farms had been in the same families for many, many years. Others were only recently purchased by former metropolitan residents who moved to the country to enjoy life to the fullest. Mr. and Mrs. Moore have resided on their farm for the three decades of their married life. The farm was purchased from Daniel Payne who had obtained it from James Collins. Before that it was known as the John McGurn farm. It was Mr. McGurn who planted the fine pines which are still in the front lawn of the farm home. Howard was born July 27, 1897, on a farm 20 rods south of the Hinds school, about three miles from his present home. He is the son of Hatley and Lucy Moore. He attended the Doud School and has been a farmer all of his life with the exception of three years during the war when he worked nights at the E.W. Bliss plant here. He was married to the former Freda Thomas in the Hastings Methodist parsonage by the Rev. Way. The Moores have 120 acres which they operate as a general farm. It is rolling land but lays rather well, and this year he has planted seven acres of oats, the same amount in corn, 12 1/2 acres of wheat and the rest is in pasture and hay. They have five cows and some chickens. Howard still uses horses to do the farm work. The Moores have three daughters, six grandsons and a granddaughter. Their daughters are Mrs. Basil (Fern) Tobias, Route 1, Cloverdale; Mrs. Dean (Mable) Selleck, Route 1, Orleans, and Mrs. Elwyn (Marveta) Payne, who resides on the home place in a house trailer. NOTICE TO BIDDERS BARRY COUNTY ROAD COMMISSION Sealed proposals will be received at the office of the Barry County Road Commission, 1725 West M-43 Highway, P.O. Box 158, Hastings, MI 49058, until 10:00 A.M., Tuesday, July 17, 2012 for the following items. Specifications and additional information may be obtained at the Road Commission Office at the above address or at our web site at barrycrc.org. Energy Efficient Heating The Board reserves the right to reject any or all proposals or to waive irregularities in the best interest of the Commission. BOARD OF COUNTY ROAD COMMISSIONERS OF THE COUNTY OF BARRY Frank M. Fiala, Chairman D. David Dykstra, Member David D. Solmes, Member 77569218 HOPE TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Hope Township Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing upon the following described matters on Thursday, July 19, 2012 at 7:00 PM at the Hope Township Offices at 5463 South M-43 Highway: 1. Mr. Stephen Mills, on behalf of Camp Michawana, has submitted an application to amend a special exception use permit for the private camp located at 5800 Head Lake Road, on land with the property tax ID number 07-016-003-00. The applicant is seeking to construct a new 2,312-square foot welcome center with a lounge, meeting room and restrooms. Private camps are a permitted special exception use in the AR, Agricultural Residential District, per Section 17.2, C of the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance. Written comments will be received from any interested persons concerning the foregoing by the Hope Township Clerk at the Hope Township Offices at any time during regular business hours up to the date of the hearing and may further be received by the Planning Commission at the hearing. Anyone interested in reviewing the application submittal, the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance, or other information in connection with the request may do so at the Hope Township Offices during regular business hours and may further examine the same at the public hearing. The Township of Hope will provide necessary auxiliary aides and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed material being considered at the hearing, to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon four (4) days notice to the Hope Township Clerk. Hope Township 5463 South M-43 Highway Hastings, MI 49058 269.948.2464 77569135 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED ZONING AMENDMENTS Notice is hereby given that the Barry County Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing on the Barry County Zoning Ordinance of 2008 that the following article will be considered for amendment: A-4-2012 Under Article 7, Section 704 – Table of Land Uses – Add the following: Include nursing homes as a use permitted by Right (“R”) in the MDR, HDR and MU zoning districts and as a use permitted by Special Use (“S”) in the LDR and RR zoning districts. Under Article 23, Special Uses - Add New - Section 2353 Section 2353 - Nursing Homes A. Definition. A residential care facility providing long term care for elderly, infirm, terminally ill, physically, emotionally and/or developmentally disabled person, licensed in accord with Article 17 of Public Act 368 of 1978, as amended. B. Regulations and Conditions. 1. The area of the proposed site shall be at least two (2) acres and shall front on a major street as defined by Section 220 of this Ordinance. 2. Must comply with all health regulations concerning well and sewage disposal per the Barry-Eaton District Health Department. 3. The emergency entrance and the delivery area shall be obscured from the general view. 4. Any dumpsters on site shall be enclosed on four (4) sides with an opaque fence equipped with a lockable gate. Any disposal of bio-hazardous waste shall be in conformance with state and local requirements. 5. Building in the LDR and RR zoning districts shall have a mandatory 40 foot side yard setback and a mandatory 50 foot rear yard setback. 6. All exterior lighting shall be in accordance with Section 523 hereof. 7. All signs shall be in compliance with the provisions of Article 25 of this Ordinance. 8. All off street parking shall be in compliance with Section 527 of this Ordinance. 9. Landscaping shall be provided in accordance with Section 521 of this Ordinance. 10. A Detailed Site Plan pursuant to Section 2701.B shall be required. Under the following: Article 11, Section 1102 – RR zoning district – Special Land Uses – Add “Nursing Homes” Article 12, Section 1202, LDR zoning district – Special Land Uses – Add “Nursing Homes” Article 13, Section 1301, MDR zoning district – Permitted Uses – Add “Nursing Homes” Article 14, Section 1401, HDR zoning district – Permitted Uses – Add “Nursing Homes” Article 15, Section 1501, MU zoning district – Permitted Uses – Add “Nursing Homes” MEETING DATE: July 23, 2012 TIME: 7:00 PM PLACE: Community Room, Courts & Law Building at 206 West Court Street, Hastings, MI Interested persons desiring to present their views on the proposed amendment, either verbally or in writing will be given the opportunity to be heard at the above mentioned time and place. Any written response may be mailed to the address listed below, faxed to (269) 948-4820, or email to: jmcmanus@barrycounty.org. The proposed amendment to the Barry County Zoning Ordinance is available for public inspection at the Barry County Planning Office, 220 West State St., Hastings, Michigan 49058, between the hours of 8 AM to 5 PM (closed between 12-1 PM) Monday thru Friday. Please call the Barry County Planning Office at (269) 945-1290 for further information. The County of Barry will provide necessary auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audiotapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/ hearing upon ten (10) days notice to the County of Barry. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the County of Barry by writing or call the following: Michael Brown, County Administrator, 220 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, (269) 945-1284 77568192 Pamela A. Jarvis, Barry County Clerk �Page 10 — Thursday, July 5, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Rosemary Ann Davis, a married woman and Joel C. Davis, as to homestead rights only, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 9, 2007, and recorded on August 20, 2007 in instrument 20070820-0001071, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Chemical Bank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Five Thousand Five Hundred Fifty-Five and 96/100 Dollars ($105,555.96). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 12, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 11, Plat of Thornton Addition, Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats, Page 72. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 14, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #396291F01 77568669 (06-14)(07-05) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Daniel J. Kellogg and Julie A. Kellogg Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 25, 2006, and recorded on September 15, 2006 in instrument 1170072, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Seventeen Thousand Five Hundred Ninety-Eight and 47/100 Dollars ($217,598.47). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the southeast corner of West 20 acres of the East 30 acres of the South 1/2 of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 26, Town 3 North, Range 7 West, village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, for a place of beginning; thence West 245.5 feet; thence North parallel with the East line of said West 20 acres of said East 30 acres 574 feet; thence West 414.5 feet, more or less, to the West line of said West 20 acres of said East 30 acres; thence North 746 feet, more of less, to the North line of the South 1/2 of the Southeast 1/4 of said Section 26; thence East 660 feet, more or less, to the East line of said West 20 acres of said East 30 acres; thence South along said East line 1320 feet, more or less, to the place of beginning. Subject to a roadway over the Southerly 33 feet thereof. Also that part of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 26, Town 3 North, Range 7 West, Castleton Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as; Commencing at the Southeast corner of said Section 26 and running West along the South line of said Section 26, a distance of 574.14 feet to a point lying 245.50 feet West of the Southeast corner of the West 20 acres of the East 30 acres of the South 1/2 of said Southeast 1/4; thence run North 00 01 minutes 09 seconds East, parallel with the East line of said West 20 acres, a distance of 374.00 feet to the point of beginning of the following described parcel of land; thence continuing North 00 01 minutes 09 seconds East, parallel with the said East line of the West 20 acres a distance of 200.00 feet; thence run West Parallel with the said South Section line a distance of 50.00 feet; thence run South 00 01 minutes 09 seconds West parallel with the said East line of the West 20 acres a distance of 200.00 feet; thence run East parallel with the said South Section line a distance of 50.00 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 21, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #398034F01 77568818 (06-21)(07-12) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Claude Wierckz and Tina Wierckz, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated May 29, 2007, and recorded on June 11, 2007 in instrument 1181556, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Forty-Three Thousand Ninety and 01/100 Dollars ($143,090.01). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 26, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 23, Gackler's Payne Lake Plat, according to the plat recorded in Liber 5 of Plats Page 72 of Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 28, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #404805F01 77569015 (06-28)(07-19) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Keith McNett & Lisa McNett, Husband and Wife to Ameriquest Mortgage Company, Mortgagee, dated July 7, 2004 and recorded August 5, 2004 in Instrument # 1131965 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned through mesne assignments to:Household Finance Corporation III, by assignment dated May 1, 2012 and recorded May 2, 2012 in Instrument # 201205020005138 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fifty-One Thousand Seven Hundred Eleven Dollars and Sixteen Cents ($151,711.16) including interest 8.15% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on July 19, 2012 Said premises are situated in City of Delton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the West one-quarter post of Section 28, Town 2 North, Range 9 West; thence South 89 degrees 56 minutes 14 seconds East 1214.40 feet along the East and West one-quarter line of said Section 28; thence South 02 degrees 54 minutes 51 seconds West 233.04 feet; thence South 89 degrees 56 minutes 14 seconds East 220.00 feet to the true point of beginning; thence South 89 degrees 56 minutes 14 seconds East 373.08 feet; thence South 52 degrees 20 minutes 58 seconds West 364.29 feet; thence North 60 degrees 26 minutes 18 seconds West 35.79; thence North 14 degrees 36 minutes 45 seconds West 212.14 feet to the point of beginning. Together with a private easement for ingress and egress and public utility purposes, 66 feet wide, described as: Beginning at a point on the East and West onequarter line of Section 28, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, distant South 89 degrees 56 minutes 14 seconds East 2094.40 feet from the West one-quarter post of said section; thence South 89 degrees 56 minutes 14 seconds East 66.08 feet along said one-quarter line; thence South 02 degrees 54 minutes 51 seconds West 881.91 feet; thence North 75 degrees 47 minutes 45 seconds West 67.30 feet; thence North 02 degrees 54 minutes 51 seconds East 865.45 feet to the point of beginning. Also, together with and subject to a private easement for ingress, egress, and public utility purposes, 66 feet wide described as: Commencing at the West onequarter post of Section 20, Town 2 North, Range 9 West; thence South 89 degrees 56 minutes 14 seconds East 2094.40 feet along the East and West one-quarter line of said Section 28; thence South 02 degrees 54 minutes 51 seconds West 233.04 feet to the true point of beginning; thence South 02 degrees 54 minutes 51 seconds West 66.08 feet; thence North 89 degrees 56 minutes 14 seconds West 314.09 feet; thence South 52 degrees 20 minutes 58 seconds West 283.59 feet; thence South 06 degrees 46 minutes 20 seconds West 206.14 feet; thence North 83 degrees 13 minutes 40 seconds West 66.00 feet; thence North 06 degrees 46 minutes 20 seconds East, 233.86 feet; thence North 52 degrees 20 minutes 58 seconds East 335.48 feet; thence South 89 degrees 56 minutes 14 seconds East 340.87 feet to the point of beginning. Commonly known as 4727 Walldorff Rd, Delton MI 49046 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 6/21/2012 Household Finance Corporation III, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File 77568912 No: 12-62955 (06-21)(07-12) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Lucas Beroza, an unmarried man and Katrina Harter, an unmarried woman and Steven Beroza, an unmarried man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 17, 2007, and recorded on August 20, 2007 in instrument 20070820-0001078, and assigned by said Mortgagee to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Six Thousand Three Hundred Forty-Seven and 06/100 Dollars ($76,347.06). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 26, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at a point in the Center of the Highway 20 rods West of the Southeast corner of the West 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 28, Town 1 North, Range 9 West; thence North 10 rods thence West 10 rods; thence South 10 rods; thence East 10 rods to the place of beginning, Barry Township, Barry County, Michigan The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 28, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #347971F02 77567817 (06-28)(07-19) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE WILLIAM AZKOUL P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. Default having been made in the conditions of a real estate mortgage made by Jeremy T. Moore, an unmarried man, of 2029 Rowe, NE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49505 and NPB Mortgage, LLC, a Michigan limited liability company, whose address is 3333 Deposit Drive, NE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49546, dated April 10, 2007 and recorded on April 11, 2001 in Instrument No. 1179091 of the Barry County Register of Deeds, which mortgage has been assigned to Northpointe Bank, a Michigan banking corporation, whose address is 3333 Deposit Drive, NE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49546, by virtue of an Assignment of Mortgage dated June 4, 2012, and recorded on June 11, 2012 with the Barry County Register of Deeds in Instrument No. 2012-001042 and upon which there is now claimed to be due for principal and interest the sum of Twenty One Thousand Two Hundred Seventy One Dollars and Forty Nine Cents ($21,271.49), which continues to accrue interest at the rate of 9.950%, and no suit or proceedings at law having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the mortgage, and the statute in such case made and provided, on August 2, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., the undersigned will sell at the East door of the Barry County Courthouse, Hastings, Michigan, that being the place of holding the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, at public venue to the highest bidder for the purpose of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid upon the Mortgage, together with the legal fees and charges of the sale, including attorney’s fees allowed by law, the premises in the mortgage located in Hope Township, Barry County, Michigan and which are described as follows: Lot 168 of Steven’s Wooded Acres No. 3, according to the plat thereof recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 84, Barry County Records. P.P. #08-07-315168-00 which has an address of 8382 Chain-O-Lakes Drive, Hastings, Michigan 49058. The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a in which case the redemption period shall be thirty (30) days from the date of such sale. Northpointe Bank 3333 Deposit Drive, NE Grand Rapids, MI 49546 DATED: June 22, 2012 Drafted By: William M. Azkoul (P40071) Attorney for Mortgagee 161 Ottawa Avenue, NW Suite 205-C Grand Rapids, MI 49503 77569027 (616) 458-1315 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Michael W. Schultz and Bonnie L. Schultz, husband and wife, tenants by the entirety, original mortgagor(s), to Chase Bank USA, N.A., Mortgagee, dated November 14, 2006, and recorded on January 16, 2007 in instrument 1175069, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for J.P. Morgan Mortgage Acquisition Trust 2007-CH4, Asset Backed PassThrough Certificates, Series 2007-CH4 as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-Five Thousand Nine Hundred Twenty-Three and 94/100 Dollars ($165,923.94). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 26, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 26, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, Irving Township, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 28, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #385338F04 77569034 (06-28)(07-19) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage, made by EASTWOOD MANAGEMENT LLC, a Michigan Limited Liability Company, whose address is 1340 Forrester SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49508, as Mortgagor, to MERLIN T. SUTHERLAND, a married man, whose address is 6155 Oakmont Landing, Alto, Michigan 49302, as assigned in the Barry County Register of Deeds to Knowlco, LLC, whose address is 8379 White Pine, Middleville, Michigan 49333, and securing that certain Note between Scott T. Sutherland, as Debtor and Merlin T. Sutherland, as Creditor, dated July 13, 2001, and pursuant to that certain guarantee wherein Mortgagor, Eastwood Management LLC, guaranteed the Note mentioned above and secured the guarantee with Mortgage described above. There is claimed to be due thereon, at the date of this notice, for principal and interest, the sum of THIRTY THOUSAND AND 00/100-($30,000.00) Dollars with interest at the rate of 0%, as secured by the above-referenced mortgage as of this date. There also shall be attorneys fees, unpaid real estate taxes and costs. And no proceedings having been instituted to recover the debt now remaining secured by said Mortgage, or any part thereof, whereby the power of sale contained in said Mortgage has become operative; NOW, THEREFORE, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that by virtue of the Power of Sale contained in said Mortgages, and in pursuance of the statute in such case made and provided, the above said Mortgage, will be foreclosed by a sale of the parcels of the premises therein described, or so much thereof as may be necessary, at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse, County of Barry, Michigan, that being the place of holding the Circuit Court in and for said County on the 12th day of July, 2012, at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, of said day and said premises will be sold to pay the amount so as aforesaid then due on said Mortgage, together with interest payable at the rate of 0%, together with late fees, legal costs, attorneys fees and also any taxes and insurance that said Mortgagee does pay on or prior to the date of said sale together with interest thereon as though on an open account at the rate of 5% per annum; which said premises are described in said Mortgage, to-wit: PARCEL 1: LOTS 4, 5, 6, 7 AND 8, HASTINGS HEIGHTS, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF IN LIBER 3 OF PLATS, ON PAGE 41 AND THE VACATED ALLEY TO THE NORTH ADJACENT THERETO. PARCEL 2: COMMENCING AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF LOT 8, HASTINGS HEIGHTS, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF IN LIBER 3 OF PLATS, ON PAGE 41; THENCE NORTH 1° EAST, 33 FEET FOR THE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE CONTINUING NORTH 1° EAST, 160 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 88° 30’ EAST, 330 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 1° WEST, 160 FEET; THENCE NORTH 88° 30’ WEST 330 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. Commonly known as: 405 E Woodlawn, Hastings, MI 49058 The period of redemption will be six (6) months from date of sale. Dated: June 8, 2012 David H. Tripp, Attorney for Knowlco LLC Drafted by: David H. Tripp (P29290) Tripp & Tagg, Attorneys at Law 206 South Broadway Hastings, Michigan 49058 77568706 (269) 945-9585 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Robert W. Bishop, an unmarried man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Countrywide Home Loans, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 27, 2003 and recorded September 23, 2003 in Instrument Number 1113915, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Bank of America N.A. successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP F/K/A/ Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, LP by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Four Thousand One Hundred Twelve and 1/100 Dollars ($74,112.01) including interest at 5.625% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 07/19/2012 Said premises are located in the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 2 of R.I. Hendershott Addition, excepting the South 3 feet, First Addition to the City of Hastings, Formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded Plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: June 21, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 617.8191 77568902 (06-21)(07-12) NOTICE TO THE RESIDENTS OF BARRY COUNTY Notice is hereby given that the Barry County Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing for the following: Case Number SP-1-2012 Lawrence & Pauline Drewyor, (property owners) Location: 11333 Keller Road in Section 17 of Orangeville Township. Purpose: Requesting a special use permit for an accessory dwelling per Section 2305 in the LDR (Low Density Residential) zoning district. Case Number SP-2-2012 Mary Baker, (property owner) Location: 9318 South M-37 Highway in Section 33 of Baltimore Township. Purpose: Requesting a special use permit for a mini/self-storage facility per Section 2352 in the RR (Rural Residential) zoning district. Case Number SP-3-2012 - Quin E & Amy L Lohroff, (property owners); Robert & Peggy Day, (applicants) Location: 5314 Thornapple Lake Road in Section 30 of Castleton Township Purpose: Requesting a special use permit for a personal storage building per Section 2357 in the RR (Rural Residential) zoning district. Case Number SP-4-2012 - Hop Head Farms, LLC, (property owners) Hop Head Farms Management, LLC, (property owners) Jeffrey T. Steinman, (applicant) Location: 4630 West Hickory Road in Section 28 of Barry Township Purpose: Requesting a special use permit for a farm product processing facility in Section 2330 in the RR (Rural Residential) zoning district. Case Number SP-5-2012 - Ellen Bassett, (property owner); David Hershberger, (applicant) Location: On Marshall Road across from 7950 Marshall Road in Section 21 of Maple Grove Township Purpose: Requesting a special use permit for a sawmill facility extension under Section 2368 in the A (Agricultural) zoning district. MEETING DATE: July 23, 2012 TIME: 7:00 PM PLACE: Community Room, Courts & Law Building at 206 West Court St, Hastings MI Site inspections of the above described properties will be completed by the Planning Commission members before the day of the hearing. Interested persons desiring to present their views upon an appeal either verbally or in writing will be given the opportunity to be heard at the above mentioned time and place. Any written response may be mailed to the address listed below, faxed to (269) 948-4820 or emailed to jmcmanus@barrycounty.org. The special use applications are available for public inspection at the Barry County Planning Office, 220 West State Street, Hastings Michigan 49058 during the hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed between 12-1 p.m.); Monday thru Friday. Please call the Planning Office at (269) 945-1290 for further information. The County of Barry will provide necessary auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/hearing upon ten (10) days notice to the County of Barry. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the County of Barry by writing or calling the following: Michael Brown, County Administrator, 220 West State Street, Hastings MI 49058, (269) 945-1284. 77569194 Pamela A. Jarvis, Barry County Clerk �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, July 5, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Edward N. Sabo, a married man and Lisa J. Sabo, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Exchange Financial Corporation, Mortgagee, dated January 12, 2001, and recorded on January 17, 2001 in instrument 1053974, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Chase Manhattan Mortgage Corporation as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Eight Thousand Six Hundred NinetySeven and 57/100 Dollars ($98,697.57). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 2, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 11, 12 and 13 of Eastwood Acres, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats on Page 7. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #403605F01 77560957 (07-05)(07-26) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF A MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on February 26, 2004, by Ronald J. Pelli and Patricia A. Pelli, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, given by them to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on March 3, 2004, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 1123097, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank on May 22, 2012, recorded on May 24, 2012, in Instrument Number 2012-000510, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of Eighty-Four Thousand Six Hundred Sixty-Eight and 31/100 Dollars ($84,668.31); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, August 9, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: A Parcel of Land in the Northeast quarter of Section 33, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, described as: Commencing at the North quarter corner of said Section 33; Thence South 89 degrees 19 minutes 49 seconds East 1321.29 feet along the North line of said Section 33; Thence South 00 degrees 57 minutes 47 seconds West 673.00 feet along the East line of the West half of the Northeast quarter of said Section 33 to the true point of beginning; Thence South 00 degrees 57 minutes 47 seconds West 220.00 feet along said East line; Thence North 89 degrees 02 minutes 13 seconds West 231.00 feet; Thence North 00 degrees 57 minutes 47 seconds East 220.00 feet; Thence South 89 degrees 02 minutes 13 seconds East 231.00 feet to the point of beginning. Together with and subject to a private easement appurtenant thereto for ingress, egress, and public utility purposes for Butterfly Lane, described separately. Description of Butterfly Lane: A strip of land in the Northeast quarter of Section 33, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, 66 feet wide, 33 feet each side of a centerline described as: Commencing at the North quarter corner of said Section 33; Thence South 89 degrees 19 minutes 49 seconds East, 1321.29 feet along the North line of said Section 33; Thence South 00 degrees 57 minutes 47 seconds West 893.00 feet along the East line of the West half of the Northeast quarter of said Section 33; Thence North 89 degrees 02 minutes 57 seconds West 231.00 feet to the true point of beginning of said centerline; Thence North 00 degrees 57 minutes 47 seconds East 440.00 feet; Thence Northerly 110.17 feet along the arc of a curve to the left, the radius of which is 549.95, the central angle of which is 11 degrees 28 minutes 41 seconds and the chord of which bears North 04 degrees 46 minutes 34 seconds West 109.99 feet; Thence continuing Northerly 110.17 feet along the arc of a curve to the right, the radius of which is 549.95 feet, the central angle of which is 11 degrees 28 minutes 41 seconds and chord of which bears North 04 degrees 46 minutes 34 seconds West 109.99 feet; Thence North 00 degrees 57 minutes 47 seconds East 231.00 feet to the North line of said Section and the end of said centerline. Commonly known as: 2872 Butterfly Lane, Middleville, Michigan 49333 Parcel Number: 08008-033-020-13 Includes a 1994 Commodore, Serial #GS04287AB The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: June 26, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933 (517) 371-8253 (07-05)(07-26) PUBLICATION NOTICE TO CREDITORS DECEDENT’S TRUST ESTATE STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF BARRY Estate of Robert Smith, Deceased. Decedent’s date of birth: May 29, 1930. Name of Trust: Smith Family Trust Date of trust: November 12, 2004. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Robert Smith, who lived at 8255 Parmalee Road, Middleville, MI 49333, died on June 10, 2012. There is no probate estate. Creditors of the deceased are notified that all claims against the trust estate will be forever barred unless presented to Shirley A. Smith, the named Trustee, whose address is 8255 Parmalee Road, Middleville, MI 49333, within 4 months of the date of publication of this notice. William R. Wieringa, P64514 Attorney for Trustee 1416 W. Milham Avenue Portage, MI 49024 (269) 271-0615 Shirley A. Smith, Trustee 8255 Parmalee Road Middleville, MI 49333 (269) 795-9239 77569201 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Timothy Voshell, a married man and Kimberly A Voshell, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 25, 2006, and recorded on January 31, 2006 in instrument 1159539, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-One Thousand Four Hundred Seventy-Four and 86/100 Dollars ($161,474.86). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Beginning at a point on the East-West 1/4 line of Section 28, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, distant North 89 degrees 34 minutes 20 seconds West 2383.60 feet from the East 1/4 corner of said Section 28; thence South 29 degrees 58 minutes 54 seconds East 416.11 feet; thence South 17 degrees 31 minutes 37 seconds East 34.09 feet; thence South 57 degrees 55 minutes 34 seconds West 502.99 feet to the South line of the North 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of said Section 28; thence North 89 degrees 40 minutes 28 seconds West 61.59 feet along said South line to the North-South 1/4 line of said Section 28; thence North 00 degrees 29 minutes 05 seconds East 661.68 feet to the center 1/4 corner of said Section 28; thence South 89 degrees 34 minutes 20 seconds East 284.00 feet along said East-West 1/4 line to the point of beginning. Together with and subject to a private Easement for ingress, egress and public utility purposes to be used in common with others, 66 feet wide; 33 feet East side of a centerline described as: Commencing at a point on the North-South 1/4 line of Section 28, Town 3 North, Range 8 West distant North 00 degrees 29 minutes 05 seconds East 1985.04 feet from the South 1/4 corner of said Section 28; thence South 89 degrees 40 minutes 28 seconds East 61.59 feet along the South line of the North 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of said Section 28 to the true point of beginning of said described centerline; thence North 57 degrees 55 minutes 34 seconds East 502.99 feet; thence North 87 degrees 01 minutes 05 seconds East 394.12 feet; thence South 69 degrees 19 minutes 18 seconds East 477.09 feet to the East line of the NOrth 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of said Section 28, and the end of said described centerline. The side lines of said Easement to be lengthened or shortened as appropriate to terminate at the South line and at the East line of the North 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of said Section 28. Also, the right of ingress and egress to and from Star School Road to the above described property across that portion of land described as: Commencing 660 feet South of the Northwest corner of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 28, Town 3 North, Range 8 West; thence East 660 feet; thence South 33 feet; thence East 3,300 feet; thence North 33 feet; thence West 3,267 feet; thence North 33 feet; thence West 693 feet; thence South 33 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 21, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #404164F01 (06-21)(07-12) 77568740 SYNOPSIS RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP REGULAR BOARD MEETING JUNE 13, 2012 -7:30 P.M. Regular meeting called to order and Pledge of Allegiance. Present: Greenfield, Bellmore, Hawthorne, Carr, Lee, Hanshaw, Flint Approved the Agenda as presented. Approved the Consent Agenda as presented. Adopted Resolution #2012-152, Revised Fire Contract by roll call vote. Podunk Lake Public Hearing was held. Adopted Resolution #2012-151, approving the redetermination of costs and revised special assessments for 2012-2015 by roll call vote. Approved a fireworks permit for Jay Gordenski. Declined membership in the MTA by roll call vote. Meeting Adjourned at 9:35p.m. Respectfully submitted, Robin Hawthorne, Clerk Attested to by, Jim Carr, Supervisor 77569181 www.rutlandtownship.org NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by ANDERSON PROPERTIES, a Michigan partnership ("Mortgagor"), to CHEMICAL BANK, a Michigan banking corporation, having an office at 333 E. Main Street, Midland, Michigan 48640-6511 (the "Mortgagee"), dated September 29, 2006, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on October 20, 2006, as Instrument No. 1171694 (the "Mortgage"). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgagee is the owner of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Sixty-Six Thousand Three Hundred Fifty and 52/100 Dollars ($66,350.52). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 12th day of July, 2012, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: Commencing at the Southwest corner of Lot 289 of the City, formerly Village, of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof and running thence West 20 rods for a point of beginning; thence North 8 rods; thence West 4 rods; thence South 8 rods; thence East 4 rods to point of beginning. Also (a) all privileges, appurtenances, improvements, buildings, tenements, hereditaments, easements, rights of way, licenses, riparian and littoral rights, mineral/oil/gas/water rights, rights to adjoining land, and all other rights belonging to the abovedescribed premises and which may hereafter attach thereto; (b) all rights to make divisions of such premises that are exempt from the platting requirements of the Michigan Land Division Act, as it shall be amended; (c) all rents, issues, profits, revenues, proceeds, accounts and general intangibles arising from or relating to the premises or any business conducted thereon by the Mortgagor including, without limitation, all rights, conferred by Act No. 210 of Michigan Public Act of 1953, as amended; (d) all equipment, other goods, and fixtures of every kind and nature whatsoever, now or hereafter located in or upon such premises or any part thereof and used or useable in connection with any present or future operation of such premises, whether now owned or hereafter acquired by the Mortgagor, including, without limitation, all heating, air conditioning, ventilation, lighting, incinerating and power equipment, engines, signs, security systems, fences, hoists, cranes, compressors, pipes, pumps, tanks, motors, plumbing, cleaning, fire prevention, fire extinguishing, apparatus, elevators, escalators, shades, awnings, screens, storm doors and windows, appliances, attached cabinets, partitions, carpeting, ground maintenance equipment. Commonly known as: 437 W. Mill Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 P.P. #08-55-001-107-00 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys the premises at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee for damaging the premises during the redemption period. Dated: June 14, 2012 CHEMICAL BANK Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2487 (616) 752-2000 77568684 8412856-1 STATE OF MICHIGAN JUDICIAL CIRCUIT-FAMILY DIVISION PUBLICATION OF HEARING CASE NO. 11-8242-NA TO: Dustin Davis and Jessica Vanalmen, whose addresses and whereabouts are unknown to Petitioner and whose interest in the matter may be barred or affected by the following: IN THE MATTER OF: Riley Davis. A hearing regarding Termination of Parental Rights will be conducted by the court on August 17, 2012 at 8:30 a.m. in Barry County Family County, 206 W. Court St., 3rd floor, Hastings, MI 49058 before Judge William M. Doherty. IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED that Dustin Davis and Jessica Vanalmen personally appear before the court at the time and place stated above. This hearing may result in the termination of your 77569203 parental rights over Riley Davis. STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 11-25859-DE Estate of Jimmy Dale McConnell. Date of birth: 4-27-51. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Jimmy Dale McConnell, died May 26, 2011. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Tammy Lynne George, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court St., Ste. 302, Hastings, and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 6-1-12 Tammy Lynne George 14170 East W. Ave. Fulton, MI 49052 77569205 (269) 615-5609 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by ERIC C. ANDERSON, a married man, THOMAS S. ANDERSON, a single man, and MARK ANDERSON, a married man, as joint tenants (collectively, "Mortgagor"), to SAND RIDGE BANK, a division of First Financial Bank NA, a national association, of 450 W. Lincoln Highway, Box 598, Schereville, Indiana 46375, dated September 9, 2005, which was duly recorded in the office of the Barry County, Michigan, Register of Deeds on September 13, 2005, as Instrument No. 1152665, as assigned to CHEMICAL BANK, a Michigan banking corporation, of 2185 Three Mile Road NW, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49544-1451 ("Mortgagee"), pursuant to a Branch Purchase and Assumption Agreement dated May 11, 2006, and a Bill of Sale dated August 18, 2006, as evidenced of record by an assignment of mortgage dated September 14, 2009, recorded September 29, 2009, as Instrument No. 200909290009655, Barry County Records, and as amended by a first amendment to mortgaged dated May 5, 2010, as recorded June 4, 2010, as Instrument No. 201006040005390, Barry County Records, given to Mortgagee by Mortgagor and also by SHERRY ANDERSON, who is the wife of Eric C. Anderson, and CHRISTINE ANDERSON, who is the wife of Mark Anderson (the “Mortgage”). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgagee is the owner of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Seventy Seven Thousand Five Hundred Six and 34/100 Dollars ($77,506.34). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 12th day of July, 2012, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: The East 1/2 of Lot 7 and the West 1/2 of Lot 8 of Block 2 of James Dunnings Addition to the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded Plat thereof. Together with all rights, easements, appurtenances, royalties, mineral rights, oil and gas rights, crops, timber, all diversion payments or third party payments made to crop producers, all water and riparian rights, wells, ditches, reservoirs, and water stock and all existing and future improvements, structures, fixtures, and replacements that may now, or at any time in the future be part of the real estate. Commonly known as: 721 W. Walnut Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 P.P. #08-55-035-016-00 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys the premises at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee for damaging the premises during the redemption period. Dated: June 14, 2012 CHEMICAL BANK Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2487 (616) 752-2000 77568679 8412749-1 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Dennis J. Goit, a married man and Joyce A. Goit, his wife, to MCA Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated April 6, 1998 and recorded May 11, 1998 in Instrument Number 1011750, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by US Bank National Association, as Trustee, successor in interest to Wachovia Bank, National Association, as Trustee for GSMPS 2005-RP3 by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Two Thousand Four Hundred Eighty-Four and 79/100 Dollars ($82,484.79) including interest at 8% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 07/12/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The land referred to in this Commitment, situated in the County of Barry, Township of Thornapple, State of Michigan, is described as follows: That part of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 12, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, commencing at the Southeast corner of said Section; Thence South 89 degrees 48 minutes 23 seconds West, 334.56 feet along the South line of said Section; Thence North 00 degrees 15 minutes 25 seconds West, 422.00 feet parallel with the West line of the East 1/2 of said Southeast 1/4; Thence North 89 degrees 48 minutes 23 seconds East, 334.63 feet, thence South 00 degrees 14 minutes 50 seconds East 422.00 feet along the East line of said Section to the point of beginning. Subject to highway right-ofway over the Southerly 33 feet thereof and over the Easterly 33 feet thereof. Except that part of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 12, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, Thornapple Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Beginning at the Southeast corner of Section 12; Thence South 89 degrees 48 minutes 23 seconds West 334.56 feet along the South line of said Southeast 1/4; Thence North 00 degrees 15 minutes 25 seconds West 222.00 feet parallel with the West line of the East 1/2 of said Southeast 1/4; Thence North 89 degrees 48 minutes 23 seconds East 334.60 feet; Thence South 00 degrees 14 minutes 50 seconds East 222.00 feet along the East line of said Southeast 1/4 to the place of beginning. Subject to highway rights-of-way for Garbow Road and Robertson Road. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: June 14, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 2485022633 File No. 326.9185 77568697 (06-14)(07-05) Call anytime for Hastings Banner ads 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 �Page 12 — Thursday, July 5, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTENTION PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE: Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage by Jason L. Watson and Deena L. Watson, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Kellogg Community Federal Credit Union, Mortgagee, dated July 27, 2005, and recorded on August 22, 2005, in Instrument No. 1151437, in Barry County records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Sixty-six Thousand Two Hundred Fifty and 00/100 Dollars ($266,250.00), including interest at 5.0% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the lobby of the Calhoun County Justice Center, 161 E. Michigan Avenue, Battle Creek, Michigan 490144066, at 1 p.m. on Thursday, July 26, 2012. Said premises is situated in the Township of Hope, County of Barry, Michigan, and described as: The Southwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 23, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, excepting therefrom the South 726 feet thereof. PPN: 08-07-023-002-15 More Commonly Known As: 7807 N. Lammers Rd., Delton, MI 49046 The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be thirty (30) days from the date of such sale. Dated: June 11, 2012 For more information, please call: KELLOGG COMMUNITY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION Mark D. Hofstee (P66001) Bolhouse, Baar & Lefere, P.C. Grandville State Bank Building 3996 Chicago Drive SW Grandville MI 49418-1384 (616) 531-7711 77568723 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Raymond C Chapin, married and Lisa Chapin, to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, successor by merger to Chase Home Finance LLC, successor by merger to Chase Manhattan Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated May 22, 2003 and recorded June 2, 2003 in Instrument Number 1105510, Barry County Records, Michigan. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Six Thousand Three Hundred Nineteen and 4/100 Dollars ($96,319.04) including interest at 4.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 08/02/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The land referred to in this commitment is located in the Village of Middleville, Barry County, State of Michigan, and is described as follows: Lot 20, Middleville Downs Addition Number 1, according to the recorded Plat thereof in Liber 5 of Plats, on Page 4. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: July 5, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 682.2405 77569221 (07-05)(07-26) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Diana Marie Peters, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 10, 2003, and recorded on January 22, 2003 in instrument 1096042, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Flagstar Bank, FSB as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Fifty-One Thousand Seven Hundred Twelve and 30/100 Dollars ($51,712.30). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 69, Lynden Johncock Plat #1, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 93. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 21, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #402486F01 77568865 (06-21)(07-12) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Timothy Joppie, unmarried man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for Quicken Loans Inc. its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated August 8, 2008, and recorded on August 11, 2008 in instrument 20080811-0008163, in Barry county records, Michigan, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Seventy-Seven Thousand Two Hundred Sixty-Eight and 79/100 Dollars ($177,268.79). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 2, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Baltimore, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The West 43 Acres of the North fractional 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 2, Town 2 North, Range 8 West, Baltimore Township, Barry County, Michigan Except That part of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 2, Town 2 North, Range 8 West, Baltimore Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner of said Section; thence North 89 degrees 58 minutes 00 seconds East 163.87 feet along the North line of said Northwest 1/4 to the place of beginning; thence continuing North 89 degrees 58 minutes 00 seconds East 1019.73 feet along said North line to the East line of the West 43 Acres of the North fractional 1/2 of said Northwest 1/4; thence South 00 degrees 38 minutes 33 seconds East 1027.04 feet along said East line; thence South 89 degrees 58 minutes 00 seconds West 886.11 feet parallel with said North line to the Centerline of Davidson Road; thence North 03 degrees 58 minutes 18 seconds West 428.66 feet along said Centerline; thence North 07 degrees 53 minutes 18 seconds West 203.52 feet along said Centerline; thence North 08 degrees 46 minutes 47 seconds West 268.16 feet along said Centerline; thence North 19 degrees 07 minutes 00 seconds West 140.40 feet along said Centerline to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #403574F01 77569167 (07-05)(07-26) State News Roundup Talking urinals designed to get attention A woman’s voice in a men’s restroom? That’s the attention-getting plan behind the latest designated-driver promotion now in hundreds of restrooms around the state. Working with the Michigan Licensed Beverage Association, restaurant and bar owners have been asked to place “talking” urinal cakes in restrooms to encourage and remind patrons to call a cab or a friend to get home safely. The restroom reminders are part of a larger effort that also includes a statewide crackdown in the first week of July. “While this message isn’t new, the method of delivery certainly is,” said Michael L. Prince, director of the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning, which plans and coordinates this federally funded effort. “Not only do we want to turn some heads and get people talking, we hope everyone takes the message to heart.” The talking urinal cakes have been used by other states for the same purpose. This one-ofa-kind promotion uses a urinal cake that features a print message and a brief motion-activated audio. According to the manufacturer, “using the elements of surprise and humor in a truly unique location will make a lasting impression on every male that sees it.” LEGAL NOTICES IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Josh Spurr and Jessica Spurr, Husband and Wife, to Fifth Third Mortgage - MI, LLC, Mortgagee, dated September 27, 2007 and recorded October 2, 2007 in Instrument Number 20071002-0002661, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Fifth Third Mortgage Company by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Eight Thousand Thirty-Six and 90/100 Dollars ($128,036.90) including interest at 6.75% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 08/02/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land located in the Township of Irving, Barry County, State of Michigan, and described as follows: A parcel of land in the Northeast 1/4 of section 32, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, described as: commencing at the North 1/4 post of said section 32; thence East on the center of Grange Road 389 feet for the place of beginning; thence East on the center line of said road 125 feet; thence South 734 feet; thence West 125 feet; thence North 734 feet to the place of beginning The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: July 5, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 200.4996 77569196 (07-05)(07-26) “We’re working closely with OHSP so patrons understand our members want them to get home safely every time,” says MLBA Executive Director Scott T. Ellis. “At first it may be seen as humorous, but the seriousness of the message will stand out and encourage patrons to find a safe ride home.” Local, county and state law enforcement officers in 26 counties will conduct additional drunk driving patrols through July 8. The message is especially important for young men. In 2011, men represented more than 80 percent of drinking drivers in alcoholinvolved fatal crashes. Of those male drivers, more than 40 percent were men 21 to 34 years old. Statistics indicate men are arrested for drunk driving at a rate of nearly three to every one woman in Michigan. State autism council to be established Gov. Rick Snyder Thursday signed an executive order establishing within the state Department of Community Health an Autism Council to oversee Michigan’s Autism Spectrum Disorders State Plan. “It is important that we work together to identify autism disorders as soon as possible. The sooner the diagnosis, the quicker patients can receive treatment, and the likelier they are to reaching their fullest potential,” Snyder said. “Effective coordination is necessary to achieve these goals, and the Michigan Autism Council will help ensure our state plan becomes a reality, so individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders and their families can live better lives.” The order creates the council as an advisory body to review, adopt and implement the state plan. The plan will provide for comprehensive, lifespan supports to individuals with ASD and their families through access to information and resources, coordination of services and implementation of evidencebased practices. The council must also update the plan every year. The group will consist of 12 members appointed by the governor; four members appointed for terms expiring on Sept. 30, 2014, four members appointed for terms expiring on Sept. 30, 2015, and four members appointed for terms expiring on Sept. 30, LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Kyle C. Rickert, and, Stacia Rickert, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 4, 2008, and recorded on April 14, 2008 in instrument 20080414-0004028, and assigned by said Mortgagee to SunTrust Mortgage, Inc. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Three Thousand Four Hundred Forty-Four and 37/100 Dollars ($133,444.37). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 12, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 284,285,286,287 and 304, AL-GON-QUIN Lake Resort Properties Unit No. 2, as recorded in Liber 2, Page 63 of Plats, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 14, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #390522F01 77568674 (06-14)(07-05) Call anytime for Hastings Banner ads 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 2016. After the initial appointments, members of the council will serve four-year terms. The council is similar to what other states have implemented. Ban lifted on Kalamazoo River fish The Michigan Department of Community Health has lifted the “Do Not Eat” fish consumption advisory for the stretch of the Kalamazoo River affected by the 2010 oil spill. On July 27, 2010, MDCH issued a special advisory that no one eat any fish caught in the Kalamazoo River from Talmadge Creek to the west end of Morrow Lake. MDCH staff tested fish samples collected in the fall of 2010 and again in the summer of 2011 from the Ceresco Impoundment and from Morrow Lake. The chemicals tested included those found in the spilled oil, as well as those that are often found in Michigan fish. MDCH compared the levels of chemicals in fish from the oil-spill areas to those found in fish from an area upstream of the oil spill, as well as historical information from samples collected in the years before the spill. MDCH concluded, based on the results of these tests, that the “Do Not Eat” fish consumption advisory could be lifted. MDCH recommends that people follow the guidelines for eating safe fish from the Kalamazoo River available at www.michigan.gov/eatsafefish or by calling 800-6486942. KCC celebrating 50 years of nursing Kellogg Community College will celebrate 50 years of nursing education with a nursing alumni picnic from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 25. The event will commemorate the admission of the 50th class of students to Kellogg Community College’s RN program this fall and will take place on the lawn on the north side of the college’s Battle Creek campus, located at 450 North Ave. Tonie McMaster, KCC assistant director of nursing education, said anyone who graduated from the college’s RN program is invited to attend for a free lunch and to reunite with other nurses who got their start at KCC. In addition to lunch, the event will include tours of the college’s nursing education facilities. Also on hand will be representatives from various educational institutions to provide information about advanced nursing education. Those who wish to attend the picnic must RSVP by Aug. 17 by visiting the website www.kellogg.edu/alliedhealth/nursing/picnic.html, emailing 50yearsofnursing@kellogg.edu or calling 269-565-2007. LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Cora Lee Greenburg, an unmarried woman, original mortgagor(s), to World Savings Bank, FSB, Mortgagee, dated July 30, 2002, and recorded on August 13, 2007 in instrument 1085507, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Thirty-Six Thousand Ninety-Nine and 99/100 Dollars ($236,099.99). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 2, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 23, Supervisor's Plat of Long Point, as recorded in Liber 2 of Page 50, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #367213F02 77569161 (07-05)(07-26) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, July 5, 2012 — Page 13 LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Forrest J. Bagley Jr, and Kimberly L. Bagley, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Plus of America Corporation, Mortgagee, dated June 11, 2001, and recorded on June 19, 2001 in instrument 1061708, and assigned by mesne assignments to CitiMortgage, Inc. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twelve Thousand Five Hundred Six and 56/100 Dollars ($112,506.56). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 26, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land in the Northeast fractional 1/4 of Section 6, Town 1 North, Range 10 West, Prairieville Township, Barry County, Michigan, and is more particularly described as follows: Commencing at the Northeast corner of Section 6, Town 1 North, Range 10 West; thence South 2 degrees 11 minutes 53 seconds East along the East line of said Section, 132.50 feet to the place of beginning of this description; thence continuing South 2 degrees 11 minutes 53 seconds East along said line, 103.71 feet; thence South 72 degrees 13 minutes 35 seconds West, a distance of 120.78 feet; thence North 2 degrees 11 minutes 53 West parallel with the said East line, a distance of 106.75 feet to the Southerly Right-of-Way of Pine Lake Road, thence along a curve to the right with a radius of 2864.79 feet, subtended by a chord of North 73 degrees 37 minutes 36 seconds East, a distance of 120.00 feet and an arc of 102.01 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 28, 2012 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #398539F01 77569010 (06-28)(07-19) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Sylvia Smith, a single person, original mortgagor(s), to Homeloan USA Corporation, Mortgagee, dated May 14, 2004, and recorded on May 19, 2004 in instrument 1127867, in Barry county records, Michigan, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Six Thousand Four Hundred TwentyEight and 32/100 Dollars ($86,428.32). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 26, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That part of Lot 21 of Supervisor Chase's Addition No. 2 to the City of Hastings according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 2, described as: Commencing at the Southeast corner of Lot 20 of said Plat; thence East 86.5 Feet to the West side of Church Street if extended; thence North 135.5 Feet; thence West 86.5 Feet to a Point North of the Place of Beginning; thence South to the Place of Beginning. Excepting therefrom the South 13 Feet conveyed to the City of Hastings as part of Amy Street. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 28, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #407369F01 77569022 (06-28)(07-19) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on May 14, 2004, by Alvin P. Hawley and Aimee L. Hawley, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, given by them to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on May 19, 2004, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 1127874, which mortgage was modified on July 27, 2009, recorded on August 7, 2009, in Instrument Number 200908070008132, Barry County Records, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank by an Assignment of Mortgage dated January 18, 2011, recorded January 28, 2011, in Instrument Number 201101280001033, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of Forty-Nine Thousand One Hundred Sixty-Six and 74/100 Dollars ($49,166.74); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, August 9, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: Lot 4, of Block 8 of the Village of Woodland, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats on page 21 and a 2 rod strip on the East end of said Lot 4, also a part of Lot 3, of Block 8 of the Village of Woodland and part of the Southwest quarter of Section 15, Town 4 North, Range 7 West, described as: Commencing 60 feet East of the Southwest corner of Block 8 of said Plat, thence North 12 rods to the place of beginning, thence East 113 feet 3 inches, thence South 60 feet, thence West 113 feet 3 inches, thence North 60 feet to the place of beginning. Commonly Known As: 134 N. State Street, Woodland, Michigan 48897 Tax Parcel Number: 08-15-110-032-00 The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: June 27, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933 (517) 37177569184 8253 (07-05)(07-26) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on May 13, 2005, by Kari L. Geller (a/k/a Kari L. Fisher), a single woman, as Mortgagor, given by her to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on May 16, 2005, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 1146597, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank on March 16, 2012, recorded on March 20, 2012, in Instrument Number 201203200002836, Barry County Records, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of Thirty-Nine Thousand Five Hundred Ten and 36/100 Dollars ($39,510.36); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, August 9, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF JOHNSTOWN, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: The South 10 feet of Lot 6 and the North 90 feet of Lot 7 of the Plat of Fernwood, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 4 of Plats on Page 29, being also described as: Commencing on Winana Drive at the corner common to Lots 6 and 7 of the Plat of Fernwood; thence North 14 degrees 9 minutes East on the Lot line a distance of 10 feet; thence North 89 degrees 40 minutes West parallel with the lot line 120 feet; thence South 14 degrees 9 minutes West on the lot line 100 feet; thence South 89 degrees 40 minutes East parallel with the lot line 120 feet; thence North 14 degrees 9 minutes East 90 feet on the lot line to the place of beginning. Commonly known as: 12076 Winans Drive, Dowling, Michigan 49050-8814 Parcel Number: 0809-070-005-00 The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: June 27, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, 77569228 MI 48933 (517) 371-8253 (07-05)(07-26) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Thomas F. Russell and Linda L. Russell Husband and Wife., original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 25, 2005, and recorded on August 12, 2005 in instrument 1151040, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Five Thousand Five Hundred Forty-One and 40/100 Dollars ($205,541.40). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 19 and the South 1/2 of Lot 18 of Hughes Park, according to the recorded plat thereof in Liber 2 of Plats, Page 57. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 21, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #404299F01 77568765 (06-21)(07-12) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Michael Batt, a single man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Amera Mortgage Corporation its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated January 12, 2011, and recorded on March 15, 2011 in instrument 201103150002680, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Nine Thousand Three Hundred Thirty-One and 31/100 Dollars ($89,331.31). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 2, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 93 of Middleville Downs Addition No. 5, Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, on Page 43, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #387348F01 77569063 (07-05)(07-26) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by David Irwin, unmarried, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated November 27, 2009, and recorded on December 16, 2009 in instrument 200912160012078, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Forty-One Thousand Seven Hundred Sixty and 88/100 Dollars ($141,760.88). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 22, Fiarview Estates No. 1, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats, Page The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 21, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #403949F01 77568860 (06-21)(07-12) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Nancy Lucas, single and Hans Terrell, single joint tenants with full rights of survivorship, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated September 21, 2005, and recorded on September 29, 2005 in instrument 1153583, and assigned by said Mortgagee to CitiMortgage, Inc. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirteen Thousand Six Hundred Twenty-Seven and 42/100 Dollars ($113,627.42). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The part of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 16, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, described as: Commencing at the West 1/4 corner of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East, 376.70 feet along the West line of the Southwest 1/4 of said Section to a point North 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West 940.00 feet the from Southwest corner of the Northwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of said Section; thence South 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East 600.00 feet; thence South 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East 300.00 feet; thence North 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West 600.00 feet; thence North 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West 300.00 feet along the West line of the Southwest 1/4 of said Section to the place of beginning. he redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 21, 2012 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #404038F01 77568855 (06-21)(07-12) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Gary W. Ellis and Nancy A. Ellis, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 1, 2008, and recorded on April 17, 2008 in instrument 200804170004189, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Two Thousand Five Hundred Ninety-Seven and 89/100 Dollars ($102,597.89). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 43, 44 and 45 of Steven's Wooded Acres, Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, according to the Plat thereof recorded in Liber 4 of Plats, Page 31 of Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 21, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #403975F01 77568746 (06-21)(07-12) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Patrick W. Pribe, An unmarried man, original mortgagor(s), to Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Mortgagee, dated September 24, 2004, and recorded on October 18, 2004 in instrument 1135674, and assigned by said Mortgagee to US Bank National Association, as Trustee for Citigroup Mortgage Loan Trust Inc., Asset-Backed Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2005-WF1 as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Nine Thousand Three Hundred Thirty-Two and 54/100 Dollars ($109,332.54). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 26, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land in the Southwest 1/4 of section 21, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, described as: Beginning at a point on the West line of Section 21 which lies due North 1087.50 feet from the Southwest corner of said Section 21; thence due North 150 feet; thence South 89 degrees 50 minutes East 160 feet; thence due South 150 feet; thence North 89 degrees 50 minutes West 160 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 28, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #402872F01 77569005 (06-28)(07-19) GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. �Page 14 — Thursday, July 5, 2012 — The Hastings Banner POLICE BEAT Right thing, wrong way During the last week of June, when most people were worrying about ways to beat the heat and planning Fourth of July getaways, the U.S. Supreme Court captured the attention of the nation by giving its ruling the Affordable Care Act, or what some call “Obamacare.” After the decision was announced, there was chaos. News outlets, in a rush to beat each other to break the news, incorrectly reported the verdict. Across the nation, Democrats rejoiced and touted their victory, and Republicans were quick to criticize the ruling. On varying ranges of the political spectrum, politicians, news commenters and even President Barack Obama himself were surprised that the individual mandate was upheld as being constitutional. I think some parts of the health care law are good, and many parts are bad. I cannot bring myself to agree that a person should be forced to buy a certain product against his or her will. It may be constitutional now, but that does not make it right. How can you force someone to buy anything? I think it sets a dangerous precedent and makes for a slippery slope. Many argue that car insurance is a product you are already required by the government to purchase. You do have to buy car insurance, if you choose to own a car and drive. But the government doesn’t require anyone to own a car or drive. Our health care system in America isn’t perfect, but it is absolutely one of the best in the world. It is the envy of other nations, and foreign leaders even come from other countries, including Canada, to have medical treatment here. I worry about the effects this law will have on our system once all aspects of it are enacted. I do like the idea of Michigan residents being able compare and shop for health insurance on the Internet all in one place. However, I don’t think the government is best equipped to run this new and innovative online marketplace. It’s possible to do the right thing the wrong way, and I think asking government to take over in this instance will not produce the best possible outcome. I am pleased that as a result of this law, more people will have health insurance coverage. I do worry that that mandating people to buy insurance — the same people who have been unable to afford to buy insurance — is like mandating that starving people buy food or pay a penalty. My biggest overall concern with the law, though, is how it will be paid for. Borrowing even more money, with our already overwhelming debt, is not acceptable. Raising taxes on the middle class is also unacceptable. As the vice chair of the house health care policy committee, we will be forced begrudgingly to enact and adopt policies forced down on us by the federal government. We will do our best to ensure these policies benefit Michigan residents and guarantee fair access to health care services. If you’d like to share your thoughts on this issue, please do not hesitate to email me, MikeCallton@house.mi.gov. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 Estate Sale Business Services Recreation ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. BOOKKEEPING SERVICES Personal * Self-Employed * Small Business Payroll * Billing Accounts Receivable * Accounts Payable General Ledger Weekly * Monthly * Quarterly * Annually Call today! (269)420-5714 WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are interested in leasing acreage for this years deer season. Call (269)795-3049 Lawn & Garden AQUATIC PLANTS: OUR Lotus & Water Lilies are ready! Also Koi & Goldfish, pumps, filters & pond supplies. APOLS WATER Help Wanted GARDENS, 9340 Kalama25 DRIVER TRAINEES zoo, Caledonia MI. (616)698Needed NOW! 1030 M-F 9:00-5:30, Sat 9:00Become a driver for 2:00. Schneider National! Earn $750 per week! For Rent No experience needed! MIDDLE LAKE RENTAL: Local CDL Training! 1BD apartment. All applian- Job ready in 15 days! ces included, washer, dryer, 1-877-649-2697. central air. 1st months rent DRIVERS: Dedicated Home plus security deposit. Call Daily! Sign-on Bonus- $1000! Joe (269)838-2650. Great Miles, Money, More! CDL-A. 1yr OTR. MTS: 800MIDDLE LAKE RENTAL: 748-0192 x208/x214 3BD apartment. All appliances included, washer, dryer, For Sale central air. 1st months rent plus security deposit. Call AFFORDABLE PROPANE Joe (269)838-2650. FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Garage Sale Propane 269-367-9700 MULTI-FAMILY BIG YARD SALE: 1974 Cadillac CENTRAL BOILER EEl Dorado convertible, CLASSIC- Outdoor Wood Struck mini dozer, nice. Furnace. Eliminates high Honda 3300 generator, super heating bills. Helps reduce quiet. 18’ Landau boat trail- your carbon footprint. 97% er, tools, jewelry, clothes, 3 efficient. EPA qualified. Sale. wheel handicap scooter, Call SOS your “Stocking leather sewing machine, Dealer” Dutton, MI (616)554many things, something for 8669 or (616)915-5061. everyone. From Bradley go south on 10th Street to 128th ELIMINATE YOUR HEATavenue turn west cross ING bills. Outdoor Wood tracks first place on right red Furnace from Central Boiler. pole barn, from Shelbyville D2 Outdoor Wood Boilers, go south on 10th St to 128th 616-877-4081. Avenue turn west cross tracks 3rd place on the right. Thursday-Friday, Saturday, GET MORE NEWS! Sub9am-6pm, Sunday 9am-? Ju- scribe to the Hastings Banner. Only $35 per year in ly 12-15th Barry County. Phone (269)945-9554. PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: 77569155 All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 National Ads THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is deceptive, fraudulent or might otherwise violate law or accepted standards of taste. However, this publication does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the quality of goods or services advertised. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made in any advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you ask for money in advance of delivery of goods or services advertised. Mobile Homes MOBILE HOME WITH expando, 3 bedrooms, 2 porches, appliances available, 3 car garage available. Thornapple Lake Estates, lot 113. (517)852-9070, (517)317-3351. $5,900 obo. Card of Thanks THE FAMILY OF Rick Rodriguez would like to express our deepest thank you to all for their cards, flowers, donations and support during his illness and passing. Thank you to Dr. Steven Wildren & staff; West Michigan Heart Assoc. doctors & staff; Lauer Funeral Home & staff; Chaplin Robert Olivarri; his friends at the Nashville & Peace United Methodist Churches. Our sincerest thank you to all those at Barry County Hospice who helped us as well as Dad during this time. A special thank you to Charlie Boulter whose care and comfort to Dad meant a great deal to us; to all his music friends and family; you brought him such enjoyment. Thank you to our friends and co-workers for the support you’ve shown. Our deepest appreciation to Betty Carey, whose love, care and companionship was such a blessing to him as well as his family. Thank you all! Woman loses money in sweepstakes scam A woman reported being scammed out of $1,000 over the phone. She told Barry County Sheriff deputies a man had called her June 20 from Liberty Global Brokerage Firm and announced she had won a sweepstakes worth $427,000, plus an additional $50,000 and a 2012 Porsche. The man informed her all she needed to do to claim the prize was send $800, which he cut to $400 when she told him she was on disability. He instructed the woman to travel to the nearest Walmart and purchase “Green Dot” cards worth $400 and provide him with the attached activation code, which she did. The man said her prizes would be delivered the next day. The next day, according to the woman, the man called and told her he was in a Brinks delivery truck in Cadillac and had been stopped by police. He then asked her to pay the $595 traffic fine before claiming her prizes. The sweepstakes man told her to call Detective Ray Dillard at the Big Rapids Police Department, which she did, but it was after 5 p.m. and nobody was available. She purchased $600 in Green Dot cards at Walmart and provided the man with activation codes. After the weekend, and receiving no sweepstakes prizes, the woman contacted the Big Rapids Police Department again only to be informed there was no Detective Dillard. When she attempted to contact the sweepstakes number, it consistently went to a recording. The woman called the Michigan Attorney General’s office where staff confirmed the scam. Deputies asked the woman to contact Green Dot to report the fraud and the Federal Trade Commission. The case is closed. Man admits to not being the brightest light Hastings Police were called to Hastings Kmart June 22 for a reported retail fraud. Upon arrival, officers were told store personnel had taken an 18-year-old Middleville man into custody after witnessing him take some headlamp bulbs out of their packaging and place them into his pocket. Employees said the man then walked through the exit where he was stopped. He admitted it was a stupid thing to do and was arrested, then lodged at the Barry County Jail. Woman has her own BOGO sale Hastings City Police received a complaint June 23 of retail fraud at the Hastings Kmart after a 49-year-old Middleville woman had been taken into custody. According to store personnel, the woman was seen placing several items into her purse and proceeded to check out with other merchandise. She attempted to leave the store after paying for only the items scanned and not the items in her purse. The woman was arrested and transported to the Barry County Jail. Driver lacks license, judgment Hastings officers received a call June 23 of a man who had driven up over the curb and onto a West Marshall Street yard, got out of the vehicle and urinated on the caller’s car. The caller reported the 27-yearold Hastings man then attempted to back off of the curb. Officers stopped the man before he drove off. The driver admitted to drinking and told the officer he did not have his license. A background check revealed the man also was wanted on an outstanding warrant. He attempted several agility tests and failed a portable breath test. He was arrested for operating while intoxicated, driving on a suspended license and a warrant for child support. His blood alcohol level was .11 percent. Trouble begins in a back alley Hastings City Police noticed activity June 20 in an alley behind an East State Street business. Officers saw a truck blocking the alley and discovered the license plate was not properly registered. Moments later, three subjects got into the truck and drove away. The officer stopped the vehicle and learned that the 52-year-old Nashville driver had a suspended driver’s license, plus an outstanding arrest warrant. One of the passengers, a 52-year-old Hastings man, also was wanted for an outstanding arrest warrant. The two men were arrested and taken to the Barry County Jail. The third person, a 44-year-old Hastings woman, was allowed to leave the scene. The truck was not properly licensed or insured and was impounded and towed from the scene. A suspicious substance in a clear glass tube was found inside the truck and was sent to a lab for analysis. Man admits to seemingly giant-sized beers Hastings officers were patrolling East State Road early June 29, when they stopped a vehicle near Boltwood Street. When police asked the 24-year-old Hastings driver if he had been drinking, he reportedly responded “two beers.” After attempting to perform several roadside agility tests, the driver was offered a portable breath test which registered .19 percent. He was arrested for operating while intoxicated and lodged at the Barry County Jail. Couple’s argument takes to the road Hastings officers were dispatched to the Kmart parking lot July 2 on a report of domestic violence. While en route, officers were told a man was trying to break out a car window as a woman was attempting to drive from the scene. Police were told both individuals had left the scene and the lead vehicle had driven into the State Police parking lot, with the suspect following. A trooper stopped the suspected vehicle while police met with the complainant, a 22-year-old Hastings woman. The 27-yearold suspect, of Delton, had located the victim in the Kmart parking lot following a heated argument at their home. The victim said the suspect became upset over their dog being let out of the house, and the argument had escalated. When police learned physical violence had occurred in the past and the victim had been assaulted, he was taken into custody for domestic assault. Salvager’s story seems to come apart Barry County Deputies received a fax June 4 asking for assistance locating 10 vehicles worth more than $21,000. The complainant worked for Burt Transportation Service U.S., Inc. and said the Dodge Caravans had been towed off a Bellevue storage lot. The lot was a residential yard owned by an ex-employee’s son. According to the 63-year-old former employee, he was told by Barry County officials he must remove the vehicles or be ticketed. He tried to contact the transportation company by phone, email and letter with little success. He then contacted a Battle Creek salvage company which hauled the vehicles away and allegedly paid him $1,000 for each vehicle, without a receipt. When deputies visited the Battle Creek salvage company, they saw organized bins full of alternators, brake rotors, alloy rims and more. An employee of the yard was asked if they dismantled vehicles. He told the deputy they did not; they simply bought parts from scrappers and then sold them. The owner of the salvage yard did not return the deputy’s calls. The case remains open. Woman takes boss’ money and runs Deputies responded June 9 to a reported embezzlement at a West Marsh Road business. The business owner told deputies a 43-year-old female employee had taken more than $1,300 in cash. The man said the woman had left during her shift without explanation, and when he counted the cash in the businesses money bag, he discovered the discrepancy. The cash represented about two days’ business, he told a deputy. When he went to check at the employee’s home, her roommate said the woman had packed her truck and left. Deputies were unable to contact the suspect and the case has been turned over to the prosecutor. Social Security card is a long way from home A woman called the Barry County Sheriff’s Department June 14 to report her uncle’s home on Guy Road had been burglarized. The uncle was living in Florida and had received property in the mail that he knew was locked in a safe at his Guy Continued next column POLICE BEAT, continued from previous column Road residence, so he contacted his niece. The mail from the Nashville residence was postmarked through Eaton Rapids. A Eaton Rapids man had found a Social Security card in the tall grass near his driveway and mailed it to the uncle. The niece told deputies she had gone to the house and discovered the safe was missing. Several drawers and cupboards also had been disturbed. The uncle asked deputies to check in his closet to see if a camera and video camera were missing, and they were. He told deputies the safe also contained birth certificates for his wife, son and daughter, along with his marriage license and photos of his deceased mother. Deputies reported a neighbor had seen a suspicious white Chevrolet truck in the area driving back and forth. Another neighbor reported seeing a green Chevrolet or GMC truck driving slowly around the area. The case is inactive pending more information. Three women in bar fight, no charges filed Deputies responded to an assault in progress on Nine Mile Road near Shelbyville June 9. Upon questioning witnesses, deputies discovered two women had walked into a local bar and confronted an ex-boyfriend. The ex-boyfriend was with another female. Reportedly, the women attacked each other, but none wanted to press charges. The bartender said the two women who walked in were banned and could not return to the establishment. The case is closed. Woman reports moved or missing items after vacation A woman called 911 June 29 because she suspected her 50-year-old ex-husband had broken into her Battle Creek home while she was on vacation. She told deputies when she returned from vacation, the screen on her bedroom window had been disturbed, and some items, including her car keys, had been moved within the house. Check stubs and approximately $200 in cash were missing. On further investigation, two of the couple’s children knew about the alleged break-in. The woman was not sure if she wanted to pursue charges. SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN Get your Social Security statement online by Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist If you would like to get a Social Security statement, which provides estimates of your future benefits, it is now available online at www.socialsecurity.gov. The online statement provides the opportunity to save or print the document for future reference, or to have handy for discussions with family members or a financial planner. According to the American Customer Satisfaction Index, users are giving the online statement a score of 89, making it competitive with our other top-rated, best-in-government online services, such as the retirement estimator and online retirement application. To get a personalized online statement, you must be age 18 or older and must be able to provide information about yourself that matches information already on file with Social Security. In addition, Social Security uses Experian, an external authentication service provider, for further verification. You must provide identifying information and answer security questions in order to pass this verification. Social Security will not share your Social Security number with Experian, but the identity check is an important part of this new, thorough verification process. When your identity is verified, you can create a “My Social Security” account with a unique user name and password to access your online statement. In addition, your online statement includes links to information about other online Social Security services, such as applications for retirement, disability, and Medicare. For more information about the new online statement, visit www.socialsecurity.gov/mystatement. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, July 5, 2012 — Page 15 Bernard Museum celebrating 50 years of history, inspiration Free ice cream social planned Saturday by Doug VanderLaan Editor Though his patients were likely happy that he devoted the majority of his time and talent to medicine, Barry County physician Prosper G. Bernard was also a man of many interests who devoted considerable effort to preserving the history of an area he came to call home. So wide were Dr. Bernard’s interests and so vast were his collecting efforts that the Bernard Historical Society long ago ran out of room to display the treasures and artifacts that he amassed before his sudden death in 1980 at age 78. “Yeah, we’ve got to put some of this stuff in storage so we can find room to display other stuff,” says John Decker, a trustee on the Historical Society’s board during a recent tour. “We’re working on a Civil War exhibit now, but you’ve got to find a place to put it.” The museum started with Bernard’s signature contribution to the land he purchased on the north shore of Crooked Lake, midway between Delton and Prairieville, in 1930: his own six-bed hospital. The hospital and the home he built adjacent to it still stand and form the anchors to the present six-building museum that opened following a Sunday afternoon in 1962 when a group of interested people met at the Bernard home to establish the historical society. More than 400 babies were born at Bernard’s hospital during the five years it operated. The hospital was closed when Bernard was called to serve as a medical officer in the World War II invasion of North Africa, Sicily and Italy. Gordon Mitchell is one of many local residents who have direct connections to the hospital. “My grandfather died in this hospital in 1937,” relates Mitchell, a foremost genealogist and historian who now lives near Hickory Corners. “He had a goiter operated on in Ann Arbor and they sent him home on a bus — then he still had to walk a couple of miles to get home. “He died here of complications from the surgery.” Bernard, who was said to be a perfectionist with an eye for innovation, implemented several ingenious designs into his hospital, the most popular one — especially for younger visitors — an underground tunnel that ran from the hospital to his home. The tunnel served for secure and weather-resistant delivery of patient meals from the home’s kitchen. Medical instruments were also sterilized in the home’s kitchen and delivered to the hospital without possible environmental compromise. It’s Bernard’s collections, though, that exhibit the boundless energy and the unfettered interests of a man who piloted light aircraft, became a photographer who developed his own images, learned silversmithing, and who polished skills in lapidary, pottery, metal spinning and woodworking. A dugout canoe, retrieved from neighboring Wall Lake in 1971, is estimated to have been constructed by Native American ancestors 150 to 1,500 years ago. A massive scale model of Hope, Prairieville, Orangeville, and Barry Townships includes a narrow-gauge railroad tribute to the old Chicago Kalamazoo and Saginaw, a stretch of which ran through Delton to Woodbury. A clockface from the old Hastings City Bank sits against one wall adjacent to a wall of telephones and operators wire switchboard. Bernard’s knowledge of Native American pottery and his passion for antique collecting brought even more artifacts to the museum as gifts from friends and neighbors who understood the doctor’s passion for local history. The Bernard Museum board continues to operate on Bernard’s passion for sharing history as a gift to the community. Admission and parking are always free. In fact, an initial 25-cent admission charge was discontinued because Bernard and the museum felt that, since most everything in the museum had been donated, admission should be free. The museum covered its operational budget with an initial contribution of $300 from Bluegrass band Schlitz Creek will play at Pierce Cedar Creek Institute Sunday. Pictured are (from left) Dave Dekema, John Speeter, Ike Smith, Nick Griffith and Nick Deaton. Bluegrass band Schlitz Creek will play at Pierce Cedar Creek Guests can be transported back in time by an old-fashioned, high-energy bluegrass as Schlitz Creek takes the stage at Pierce Cedar Creek Institute the evening of Sunday, July 8. The Kalamazoo-based band will be performing from 6 to 8 p.m. The band is sure to raise a ruckus as members crowd around a single vintage microphone as if they were performing at an old country hoedown. Sets include music of such legends as the Dillards, the Monkees, Bob Seger, Lennon and McCartney, Kenny Bernard Historical Society trustees Gordon Mitchell, (left) Anne Richards and John Decker ready a whirligig weather vane for the upcoming 50th anniversary celebration Saturday, July 7. each of its four neighboring townships, Hope, Barry, Prairieville and Orangeville. The gifts reached $1,000 each annually, though some of the townships contribute less or give sporadically today. The difference in township support and operational cost has been made up partially in donations, in the gift from the estate of a local resident, in book sales and in membership fees. Also of some assistance has been a recent legal ruling approving the transfer of savings bonds to the museum from the estate of Bernard’s late wife, Esther, who died in 2008. Both Prosper and Esther Bernard are buried in the Prairieville Cemetery. Annual museum memberships are $5 per person. Lifetime memberships are available Healthy youths, seniors grants available The tobacco settlement grant committee of the Barry Community Foundation will be accepting grants for the Healthy Youth and Seniors Fund. The advisory committee will give consideration to programs that are geared toward tobacco control, cessation or prevention. Grants will be accepted at the foundation until 5 p.m. Aug. 15. The committee will review the requests and make a recommendation to the Barry Community Foundation Board of Directors at its September meeting. Applicants will be informed and checks will be issued at the beginning of October. Previously, Barry- Eaton District Health Department and Barry County Substance Abuse have been awarded grants. The health department has sponsored a program toward the promotion of smoking cessation through the use of nicotine patches, along with professional counseling. Barry County Substance Abuse has put together the Barry County Tobacco Reduction Coalition and started a youth education project and the Teens Against Tobacco Use Program. BCF continues to look for organizations with innovative, proactive grants for tobacco cessation and prevention. Grant applications may be obtained on the BCF website, www.barrycf.org, or by calling Jennifer at the community foundation office at 269-945-0526. Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, P.C. • Kenneth S. Merriman, M.D. • Eric S. Leep, D.O. • James L. Horton, Jr., D.O. • David J. Heeringa, D.O. • Maria Benit, PA-C • Christopher Born, PA-C Providing Excellence. In the Art of Total Orthopedic Care Physical Medicine and Pain Management Accessible. Comprehensive. GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! From left to right: James L. Horton, Jr., D.O., Orthopedic Surgeon; David J. Heeringa, D.O., Orthopedic Surgeon; Eric S. Leep, D.O., Physical Medicine; Kenneth S. Merriman, M.D., Orthopedic Surgeon. For more information on Hastings Orthopedic Clinic or to learn about all of our services, please visit us online at www.hoc-mi.com, scan our QR code below with your mobile device, or contact us directly at (269) 945-9520. 06785736 Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. for $50 and patron memberships for $150. Decker points out that he got a deal by buying a lifetime membership. “I figured I could live more than 10 years,” chuckles Decker, 81, “so I bought a lifetime membership.” Bernard Historical Society members are hoping that a free ice cream social Saturday, July 7, to celebrate the museum’s 50th year will invite even more members and create even more lifetime memories. The celebration — and ice cream — will run from 1 to 5 p.m. and will include guided tours, music and demonstrations. The Bernard Historical Museum is located at 7135 W. Delton Road, midway between Prairieville and Delton. Rogers, Jerry Reed and Merle Haggard. The concert will take place in the cool of the PCCI the auditorium. Light refreshments will be served, and ice cream can be purchased during intermission. Ticket, $8 for members, $10 for non-members and $5 for children, can be purchased online at cedarcreekinstitute.org or by calling 269-721-4190. Pierce Cedar Creek Institute is located at 701 W. Cloverdale Road, south of Hastings. �Page 16 — Thursday, July 5, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Commercial Bank dedicates bench to Barry County veterans Commercial Bank of Hastings dedicated this bench and flags to the veterans of Barry County. Members of Hastings American Legion Post 45 stand ready to offer a 21-gun salute and the playing of taps. Commercial Bank of Hastings dedicated a park bench, along with United States and Michigan flags, to all the veterans of Barry County in a special ceremony Tuesday, July 3. The bench sits in area southeast of the bank facing two flag poles, and can be seen by passersby on West State Street. Tim Kelly, Commercial Bank of Hastings’ community president, Hastings Mayor Bob May, and Barry County Commissioner Robert Houtman all said a few words before the flags were raised. Hastings American Legion Post 45 provided a 21-gun salute and the playing of taps after the colors were presented. “We had some additional green space and wanted to do something nice for the veterans and the community,” said Kelly. “We wanted to honor Barry County veterans both past and present, and so we have made this a reflection area, of sorts. I got the idea when I saw the benches at the Hastings library. We will be planting a shade tree by the bench in the near future, possibly a miniature maple.” Barry County Commissioner Robert Houtman (right) speaks at the dedication, as does Commercial Bank’s Tim Kelly (far left) and Hastings City Mayor Bob May. Dr Carrie Wilgus is pleased to announce the addition of a new Mid-Level Provider to her team! Please welcome to our team: Christi Bush PA-C. Christi is a board certified physician assistant who received her degree from Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Christi grew up in Bay City Michigan. After high school, Christi attended Alma College where she received her degree in Psychology. For seven years, Christi worked as a social worker serving the community of Tuscola County in Michigan. She later began practicing in the Bay City area as a physician assistant, where she has spent the past year and a half caring for children at a local medical office specializing in pediatrics. Christi now calls Hastings home and is looking forward to becoming a part of our small community. As a board certified physician assistant, Christi will provide services in the office and hospital setting. She is qualified to treat children from birth to adolescence, providing medical services from: Preventative Services, Well Exams, Behavior and Attention Problems, to management of Chronic Illnesses. Christi is now accepting appointments for new and established patients Monday-Thursday 9am - 5pm and Fridays 1pm - 5pm. Dr Carrie Wilgus and Christi Bush, PA-C Now Accepting NEW PATIENTS! American horseless carriages, foreign autos to share weekend at Gilmore Car Museum This weekend, while celebrating America’s independence and uniqueness, the Gilmore Car Museum will be also welcome a friendly invasion of sorts by overseas friends. The weekend will mark the first-ever allGerman car show Saturday followed by the 22nd annual British car show Sunday. Early motoring Americana will also make a stand Saturday as original horseless carriages will take to the museum’s campus. Also Saturday, July 7, the all-German car show — called Deutsche Marques — will feature cars such as BMW, Audi, MercedesBenz, Volkswagen, Porsche and others. When Karl Benz applied for a patent in 1886 for his “vehicle with a gas engine,” little did he realize that his invention — later recognized as the world’s first automobile — would change the world. It wasn’t until 1893, seven years after Benz unveiled his invention to the world, that the Duryea brothers produced the first American-built automobile. Events Saturday will include nearly a dozen high-wheel motor buggies — true horseless carriages — that were built exclusively in America between 1895 and 1915. These quaint vehicles, with names like Autobug, Holsman or Anderson as well as Sears and International Harvester, will be showcased and driven throughout the historic Campus. Resembling the horse-drawn vehicles of the era, partially to attract new customers who depended on the horse and carriage for transportation, and practically to conquer the rough wagon trails once called roads, their high wheels meant they could maneuver the deep, mud-filled paths in the rainy season and roll over the boulders, tree roots and holes that served as interference in the dry season. The arrival of European automobiles continues Sunday, July 8, when the Gilmore Car Museum welcomes the ever-popular Mad Dogs and Englishmen British Auto Faire. Spectators can explore an authentic London double-decker bus, ride in a 1935 London taxi, and watch a uniformed British bobby direct traffic, all before the afternoon tea and bagpipe music. This is the largest gathering of British-built vehicles, of all eras, from luxury models to sports cars and motorcycles, in the Midwest. Many fine examples from Rolls-Royce, Bentley, Austin, Aston-Martin and Lotus, as well as Triumph, Singer and Land Rover will be shown. Last year, more than 400 British When you think of Great Britain you might envision uniformed Bobbies, double decker buses and bagpipers — all of which will take part in this Sunday’s British Car Faire. (Photo by Gilmore Car Museum) This very rare 1938 Mercedes 540K Sport Tourer, on display at the Gilmore Car Museum, is the only remaining example to survive and remained hidden in a Dresden, Germany basement for nearly six decades. (Photo by David Lyon) cars were displayed on the museum’s manicured show grounds. This weekend offers a unique opportunity to taste a bit of early Americana that is not readily accessible and experience the automobiles and culture of Great Britain and Germany without a passport or the expense of traveling “across the pond.” This weekend’s events and all the exhibits within the newly expanded Gilmore Car Museum are open to the public from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The museum, featuring nearly 300 antique, classic and collector cars and vintage motorcycles, is located south of Delton on M-43 and Hickory Road. To learn more about the Gilmore Car Museum visit: www.GilmoreCarMuseum.org or call the museum at 269-671-5089 Hastings Pediatrics 1761 W. M-43 Hwy., Suite 2 Hastings, MI 490588 Phone: 269-948-7337 Fax: 269-948-9976 Office Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8am - 5pm 06785583 This 1909 Holsman high wheel motor buggy is among nearly a dozen such vehicles to be showcased at the Gilmore Car Museum Saturday. (Photo by Gilmore Car Museum) � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-07-12.pdf e4bcbbc5de6d7ac5248885064ed4060c PDF Text Text Heat doesn’t stop the fun at park party Countdown to Barry County Fair begins Michigan Ave. bridge project on schedule See Story on Page 3 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 16 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 28 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, July 12, 2012 Amber waves of corn NEWS BRIEFS are not a pretty sight Pierce Cedar Creek hosting chamber tonight The next Barry County Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours will be at Pierce Cedar Creek Institute July 12 from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Guests will tour the facilities and sample food options. Pierce Cedar Creek Institute, a nonprofit environmental education center, provides visitors with an exposure to diverse habitats, including wetlands, forests, marshes, streams, lakes and prairies. The institute is set on 661 acres of preserved land and offers a place to have business meetings, retreats, staff dinners, volunteer appreciation events or other functions. The institute is open to the public yearround and free of charge at 701 W. Cloverdale Road. Visitors may explore more than seven miles of nature trails. The business after hours events are the second Thursday of every month from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Charlton Park gas and steam engine show returns The 41st annual Charlton Park Gas and Steam Engine Show will return to Historic Charlton Park Friday and Saturday, July 13 and 14. Guests will see the history of engines in the making, including steam boats, tractor parades a working sawmill and more. Demonstrations will include shingle making, wheat threshing, hay baling and the 1890 Corley Sawmill in operation. Guests can enjoy tractor parades, sweet corn cooked with help from a Westinghouse steam engine, strolling the historic village, riding in a steamboat and even a spark show Saturday evening. More tractors and steamers are expected this year than ever before, said Director Dan Patton. Show hours are 8 a.m. to dusk, with the tractor parade at 2 p.m. each day. Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for children. For more information, call 269-945-3775 or visit www.charltonpark.org. Fountain series to welcome Tony LaJoye Trio July 13, Fridays at the Fountain Series will feature the Tony LaJoye Trio, whose unique sound consists of a fusion of pop, jazz, blues and rhythm and blues. Members include LaJoye of Hastings, Traverse City bassist Stu Ford, and WestMichigan drummer Matt Gibbons. Fridays at the Fountain concerts take place on the Barry County Courthouse lawn from noon to 1:30 p.m. In the event of rain, concerts are moved to the community room at Hastings City Bank, 150 W. Center St. Open house planned for Barney Hutchins For 24 years, Barney Hutchins has almost always been the first person in the door and the last one to leave at Thornapple Valley Community Credit Union. The fact that he was CEO of the company made his dedication even more inspiring to those who worked for him. Hutchins will join the ranks of the retired Tuesday, July 17, following a special open house in his honor to be held from 2 to 5 p.m. at the credit union’s office at 202 E. Woodlawn Ave., in Hastings. During Hutchins’ tenure as CEO, TVCCU nearly tripled its assets from $5.3 million to $15.7 million, opened a branch in Delton and added more than 35 new services for members. by Bonnie Mattson Staff Writer The amber waves of grain Katherine Lee Bates referred when she penned “America the Beautiful” in 1893 were describing the wheat fields of the Midwest, according to historians. The amber waves of grain beginning to appear in mid-Michigan are not such a beautiful sight to area farmers, said Tim Spitzley of Lake Odessa. According to Spitzley, this is the worst summer drought he has seen since 1988, the year before he began farming. Spitzley has 850 acres of corn and 470 acres of soybeans planted. “Soybeans are a little more tolerant of the dry weather,” said Spitzley. “We have a bigger window to wait for rain where they are concerned. We need rain within the next 30 days, and we can probably salvage those crops.” The corn is a different story. Planting was off schedule this year for most farmers. The weather warmed up early enough to get some corn planted in April, but the rest of the planting was late due to the amount of rain in late April and early May. Many farmers finished planting later than usual. The dry weather threatens to create losses of 50 percent for the corn planted early and already beginning to tassel. The later corn may be salvaged with a considerable rain, since it has not all pollinated yet, said Spitzley. The corn planted this year has been geneti- See CORN, page 15 Lake Odessa farmer Tim Spitzley stands in the spot where the corn was over his head in 2010. It is barely waist high today. (Photo by Bonnie Mattson) City extinguishes request for smoking ban in parks by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Smokers will still be able to light up anywhere in Hastings city parks. Last month, members of the Barry County Tobacco Coalition requested the city ban smoking in some, all or parts of city parks. After lengthy discussions during two previous meetings, the council, with Mayor Bob May and trustee Dave Jasperse absent, voted unanimously against granting the coalition’s request. In their initial presentation to the council, coalition members said they were requesting the ban because parks are places where young people often gather for sports and other recreational activities, and they did not want youths to see adults smoking, associate smoking with having fun and later become smokers themselves. While several members of the council said they applaud the coalition’s anti-tobacco campaign and goal of preventing young people from ever lighting their first cigarette, they could not support the ban. “I personally do not smoke; I don’t think anybody ought to smoke,” said Trustee Bill Redman. “I think if we put this in effect, it is going to be unenforceable, No. 1 ... I think this is something we should just leave alone. I don’t think we, as a city council, should tell people they can’t smoke in a city park ... [Smokers] are citizens. They pay taxes like everybody else does.” Trustee Don Bowers agreed. “I have the same frame of mind,” he said. “Most of the places that have banned smoking, all they have done is pushed them outdoors where the kids can see them. Pennock Hospital for example, if they had a no-smoking area, then they wouldn’t be on the side- walk out front and the kids wouldn’t see them ... That is one of the big things I heard ... I can’t legislate anymore against people that have a right to do what they want to do as long as they pay their taxes and they are citizens of here. Trustee Waylon Black backed Bowers and Redman. “I’m against a complete ban of smoking in parks because it tramples on peoples’ rights,” he said. “We don’t have a right to tell people ‘you can’t smoke here, you can’t smoke there.’ Even if we were to enforce designated areas for smoking, it won’t be long before the same group, or another group, comes before the city council trying to get us to completely abolish that. So, it is absolutely ridiculous.” Trustee Dave Tossava said he agreed with his fellow council members, and while he did not like being exposed to secondhand smoke, he said he did not feel a smoking ban in city parks could be enforced. Trustee Barry Wood asked City Manager Jeff Mansfield whether smoking was allowed on other city property. Mansfield replied that smoking was prohibited in city-owned buildings and vehicles but was allowed outdoors on city property, except on the collective city hall and public library campus. Bowers made the motion, seconded by Redman, to deny the request. Later, during the public comment portion of the meeting, Dr. Robert Schirmer a member of the coalition and medical director of the Barry-Eaton District Health Department, said he appreciated the council’s consideration regarding the ban and hoped that some time in the future the council would reconsider instituting a ban. Conservation report encourages county commissioners by Doug VanderLaan Editor All Barry Conservation District Director Joanne Barnard would have needed to make her annual report at Tuesday’s county commission meeting any more vivid and picturesque would have been a kayak paddle and a duck call. “The recreational side of what goes on in Barry County — though we may not see it all the time — does make an impact,” said Barnard, pointing out that a local canoe livery is bringing in 300 to 400 people per weekend day to float down the Thornapple River. “That river, even though there’s hardly any water in it now, is being enjoyed by people.” As are a host of other projects the Barry Conservation District either has underway or has planned for the future that Barnard highlighted in her report Tuesday. Of particular interest were three wildlife preservation initiatives, one a pheasant restoration project, the second, a wetlands project near Nashville that is dramatically increasing the duck population, and the third, an effort to aid fish passage by removing the Morgan Dam, replacing sinking culverts with a bridge and inventorying fish passage barriers. The pheasant program began in 2011 by bringing together 15 landowners, including the Pierce Cedar Creek Institute, to improve habitats in an effort to restore the pheasant population. This year, the conservation district helped start the county’s first pheasant cooperative, only the fourth such group in the state, which took the name Pritchardville Cooperative. “These folks are not all hunters, they just miss pheasants in Barry County,” said Barnard. “They’ve already put in about 150 volunteer hours in cleaning habitat areas and just making a huge difference. They’re looking forward to having a kids field day this fall or next spring, depending on how well our planting project goes.” The Nashville Floodplain Westland Restoration Project has involved the development of 16 acres of prairie land, planting 250 trees, removing invasive species, and, later this fall, removal of stumps from the river. “It’s an awesome duck area,” said Barnard. “It already had a semi-decent duck population, but the numbers are increasing because we have a lot more shallow water areas and we hope to even improve that with wetland scoop-out areas and some habitat plantings in those floodplain areas.” A cooperative project with the Barry County Road Commission at Highbanks Creek started out as a plan to remove the Morgan Dam, but evolved into a larger effort to replace road culverts sinking into waterways and impeding fish passage. Culverts on Lawrence Road are being replaced with a bridge as part of a $600,000 project funded by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the county road commission. Barnard highlighted a number of additional cooperative ventures in which landowners, volunteers and donors are involved, including a streambank restoration initiative at Quaker Brook being funded by a $25,000 MillerCoors grant and involving the partnership of the Thornapple River Watershed Council, the County Drain Commission, the DNR and the DEQ. Inventory mapping of fish passages, urban runoff, bank erosion and placement of data on interactive mapping websites are also in development. Barnard ended her presentation with an update on the Aug. 6 to 11 Thornapple River Expedition, a first-time tour of the entire length of the Thornapple River for which over 100 canoeists, kayakers and tubers have signed on from all over the state and even outside the state. The tour, which will travel from Vermontville to Ada, begins with a bus tour of the river’s headwaters near Charlotte and one of the largest wetland restoration efforts currently underway. “Joanne and her staff do an enormous amount of work that just goes under the radar ... This is a great deal for a lot of people throughout the county and even beyond the county. It’s a great showcase and I’m very proud of it.” Commissioner Jeff VanNortwick “Joanne and her staff do an enormous amount of work that just goes under the radar,” summed up Commissioner Jeff VanNortwick. “And we don’t publicly take the time to thank them. This is a great deal for a lot of people throughout the county and even beyond the county. It’s a great showcase and I’m very proud of it.” In other business, the board: • Held a public hearing on the closeout of Barry County’s Michigan Community Development Block Grant Project which helped fund the construction of the Finkbeiner/Crane Road Bridge connection between Whitneyville Road and M-37 in Middleville. Heather Smith of the Barry County Road Commission staff reported that the project is complete and that not all of the $800,000 awarded for reimbursement through the grant was returned to the county due to MDOT’s allocation of funds toward portions of the project that had been covered by the grant application. “There was nothing I could do about it, and I’m not very happy about it,” said Smith of recovering just over $400,000 in reimbursed funds through the CBDG grant. Smith also was asked for reasons that a traffic light was not installed at the Crane Road-M-37 intersection. “MDOT requires a certain amount of traffic data to warrant a traffic light going in, and they have been monitoring it,” replied Smith. “We at the road commission would have liked a light there but, unfortunately, we do not have the authority to put a light in.” • Approved the appointment of Joy Mulder to serve a three-year term on the agricultural preservation board. • Approved the appointment of Craig Stolsonburg as county commission representative and Jeff VanNorwick as alternate representative to a one-year term on the agricultural preservation board. • Approved a revised fee schedule for requested land information services to bring the county closer in line to neighboring counties and to market expectations. • Approved a $9,100 contract with Netech Inc. for a countywide network security assessment, with funds to be paid from a federal grant deposited to the data processing fund. • Approved the expenditure of up to $3,000 for a space consultant to determine the best use of the courts and law building to be paid from the building restoration fund. • Voted 8-0 to appeal an EPA reimbursement denial of a $612 bill for cleanup service in April of a methamphetamine lab. • Approved commissioners’ monthly payroll of $7,628 which, Commissioner Robert Houtman told fellow commissioners, is an approximate 24 percent reduction in compensation made prior to budget-cutting moves such as moving the commission’s committee meeting business to a committee of the whole format. “It means we’re doing more work in less time for less money,” pointed out Houtman. “For anyone on benefits, those costs have gone up, but we were running in the $9,000 to $10,000 range, and now we’re in the $7,000 range.” The monthly pay includes per diem pay and mileage only, said Barry County Administrator Michael Brown. The board meets next for its committee of the whole meeting Tuesday, July 17, in its chambers at the Barry County Courthouse beginning at 9 a.m. �Page 2 — Thursday, July 12, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Gilmore Car Museum welcomes 43rd national Chrysler meet This DeSoto is from 1929, the first year of its production. (Photo by Gilmore Car Museum) The 1949 Chrysler Town and Country convertible – known as a Woody because of its wood trim — became indelibly tied to surf and beach music of the 1960s. (Photo by Gilmore Car Museum) This Saturday, the show grounds at the Gilmore Car Museum south of Delton will be the site of the Walter P. Chrysler Club’s 43rd national meet and car show. Organizers expect this to be the largest WPC Club car show in two decades, with members coming from all over the U.S. and Canada for the event. “This is a remarkable opportunity for the community to see some of the finest examples of Chrysler-built vehicles,” said club president Richard Bowman. The Saturday show is open to the public from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and visitors can expect to see over 150 rarely seen vehicles. A dozen 1941 to 1950 Chrysler Town and Country “woodies” – popularly associated with beach music of the 1960s, a large number of the Virgil Exner-designed Imperials from 1955 to 1963 and several muscle cars from the 1960s and 1970s will take the show field. A 1932 Chrysler Imperial and a 1942 DeSoto Custom convertible — both extremely rare, are have been registered for the event. The Walter P. Chrysler Club, formed in 1968 and named for the founder of the Chrysler Corporation, is the largest worldwide organization dedicated to the preservation, restoration and enjoyment of vintage, Chrysler-built vehicles. This includes autos such as De Soto, Imperial and Eagle, as well as Chrysler, Dodge, Plymouth and Jeep. The club also embraces the many predecessors to the Chrysler brand — AMC, Hudson, Maxwell, Fargo, Chalmers and Stoddard Dayton are just a sampling. Made up entirely of WPC members’ vehicles, the judged show will feature several makes and eras. “Everything from the famous Airflows to the highly coveted muscle cars,” as Bowman puts it. Within the Gilmore Car Museum’s exhibit galleries, visitors will find a 1963 Chrysler Turbine car, an experimental concept car of which only a handful remain; early motorcars from Brush and Columbia; as well as the Dodge brothers’ last two privately owned personal cars — all are brands that later became part of Chrysler Corp. General admission to the museum Saturday also includes this special Chrysler showcase. The museum is located on M-43 and Hickory Road. For more information about this and other upcoming events and the museum, visit www.GilmoreCarMuseum.org or call 269671-5089 for more information. Imperial became a separate division of Chrysler Corporation in 1954 and was the auto maker’s top-of-the-line auto, designed to compete against Cadillac and Lincoln. (Photo by Gilmore Car Museum) Free Art Park program coming to Hastings’ 1st Ward 77569251 help them elevate their self-confidence and standing in the community.” Art Park is free to attend. Students may sign up for one week or all four. Others may just drop in during the open session from noon to 1:30 p.m. Interested youths may register by calling the Thornapple Arts Council, 269-945-2002 or online, www.thornapplearts.org Funding and support for Art Park comes from a grant from the Barry Community Foundation and program funding from Thornapple Arts Council the Hastings Downtown Development Authority. FUNDRAISER THE FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF STEVE HARD SR. ARE HAVING A FUNDRAISER TO PAY FOR HIS PAST, PRESENT AND ONGOING MEDICAL BILLS. Steve has Stage 4 Bone Cancer. He is also dealing with a double broken neck and cracks on his vertebrae/spine area. There is no cure for his cancer but the treatments he is receiving can help prolong his life. He has undergone radiation and is now going through chemotherapy and shots to help strengthen his bones. Steve spent 25 years working for the Hastings Landfill in the booth, and also with the help of his wife, Patty, they are running Hilltop Auto Sales of Hastings. They are planning a Spaghetti Dinner and there will also be Pizza & Chips for the ones who don’t care for Spaghetti. Steve and his family are looking forward to seeing you. Spaghetti & Pizza Dinner PLACE: Thomas Jefferson Hall 328 Jefferson St. at the corner of Green St. Downtown DATE: Saturday, July 14, 2012 TIME: 12:00 noon to 8:00 p.m. DINNER COST: $10 per adult & $5 per child State St. ✪ Michigan Ave. Each day will begin with an open session from 9 to 10 a.m. featuring a guest artist giving an introduction and a demonstration of his or her work related to the week’s theme. Attendees will then break into groups for 1 1/2 hour of studio time from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Groups of five to eight students of all age levels will work with the artist, youth leaders, the interns and the administrator to complete a four-day project. The plan is to integrate the art pieces produced during the camp into the Summerfest parade, downtown sculpture exhibit and city parks, according to Hastings Downtown Development Director John Hart. “For instance, the graffiti painted on fourby-eight plywood would be mounted on the skate park fence, later to be cut up and auctioned as smaller art pieces to raise funds for next year’s Art Park,” he said. “The paper mache sculptures will be mounted to sticks or worn and displayed in the Summerfest parade. The assemblage pieces will be installed downtown for viewing with the 23 other sculptures. The final week, an installation or two will be installed in the Art Park for display during the rest of the summer and fall.” Each day of Art Park, an open 1 1/2-hour drop-in mini project session, from noon to 1:30 p.m. is planned. These will be open to non-registered participants, neighbors, parents, friends, skaters, bikers and others to participate in the production of a larger group project in the same theme or medium The final product will be integrated into the last week of programming around installations, he said. Following the open session will be studio time, from 1:30 to 3 p.m., to end each day. During studio time, students will work on designing and completing group pieces. Thursday, at the end of each week, an opening is planned from 5 to 7 p.m. to fill the park and tent with festivities to show the talents of the instructors, artists and students and to change the pride and image of the park, said Hart. “We will have the kids help set up the show during the last session/studio time on Thursdays. We will likely invite musicians to play at each for background,” he said. “The mission of the whole project is to change the community’s opinion of the park, the [youths who] use it and to celebrate the talents of the kids involved. It is also an opportunity to change the counter culture kids view of the world surrounding them, to encourage them to take leadership roles in the community and to engage in healthy, creative exhibits of expression that will challenge their abilities, Jefferson St. the skate park. Students will receive instruction in the art of graffiti, July 23 through 26; sculpting paper mache, July 30 through Aug. 2; assemblage using recycled materials, Aug. 6 through 9; and installation, Aug. 13 through 16. Each subject will have four days of instruction, mentoring and production. M-43 Broadway Art Park, a free four-week art camp for 50 to 75 youths in sixth through 12th grades will begin Monday, July 23, and run through Thursday, Aug. 16, in the 1st Ward Park next Hastings Manufacturing Company. The camp will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday each week in a 40 -by-60-foot tent in the shaded area adjacent to Green St. For those who are unable to attend and want to help, you can send a check made out to: Spectrum Health / Steve Hard Sr. acct.#013527886 to P.O.Box 353 Hastings, MI 49048 c/o Steve Hard 77569265 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, July 12, 2012 — Page 3 Heat doesn’t stop fun at park party Firefighters provide welcome relief from the heat for visitors to the Maranda Park Party. Temperatures soared to near 100 degrees, but that didn’t stop kids from having fun at the free event. More than 2,300 kids and families came out the Barry Expo Center Thursday, July 5, for an afternoon of fun in the sun at the Maranda Park Party. “The best part of the day was meeting so many amazing kids and families who were enjoying an afternoon of free fun,” said Maranda. The Barry Expo Center was packed with families who came early to enjoy a free picnic-style lunch from the Michigan Department of Education and the area public schools. The stage rocked all afternoon with entertainment, including Strike Percussion Ensemble, magic from Ronald McDonald and prize giveaways with Maranda. The Hastings Park Party had activities provided by local nonprofit groups, along with attractions such as a climbing wall, Country Fresh Bounce House and SuperSlide. Visitors slide down a huge inflatable slide at the party, which provided free food and activities July 5 at the Barry County fairgrounds. Hannah Vann, 8, (left) and Emma Vann, 10, both of Hastings, cool off in the spray Thursday. Carnival rides give visitors a chance to catch a breeze July 5. Photos by Julie Makarewicz Political signs must be placed properly See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS The wall rock climbing unit is a popular attraction for kids at the party at the Barry Expo Center. 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits 77569336 The Michigan Department of Transportation is again reminding political candidates and property owners that political signs must conform to state regulations for placement. “We want to create an environment that’s as safe as possible for motorists and pedestrians. Every year, some political signs are placed too close to the roadway and block the view of motorists,” said State Transportation Director Kirk T. Steudle. “Signs with steel or wooden posts that do not meet MDOT safety standards are not allowed in the right of way.” Signs must be placed more than 30 feet from the edge of the roadway (or from the white line along the edge on highways) without barrier-type curbs. On highways that do have barrier curbs, the signs must be more than three feet from the back of the curb. Signs are not allowed within clear vision areas at intersections or commercial driveways, or within limited-access rights of way. Campaign signs that do not meet these criteria will be removed. Candidates are responsible for obtaining approval from adjacent property owners before placing signs. Signs must be removed within 10 days after the election. For more information on campaign sign placement standards, visit the MDOT web site, www.michigan.gov/mdot. �Page 4 — Thursday, July 12, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Heart in the clouds Hastings City Band fills courthouse lawn with musical favorites Rene Swift of Hastings quickly snapped a picture of the sky this week when this valentine greeted her. “This picture has not been Photoshopped. This is as I was leaving Hastings today. It’s been a frustrating day, and I was just getting ready to have some one-on-one time with God, when I looked up and saw this cloud. Need I say more?” We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Do you know? Do you recognize this photo of farm equipment and, more than likely, farmers? Do you know where it was taken? When? Do you know the occasion? Was it an antique tractor show? A tractor pull? A display of new equipment? What can you tell us about this photo? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event to reunite the photos with their original clippings or identify photos that may never have been used. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings 49058; email news@j- Have you adgraphics.com; or call 269-945-9554. The identity of last week’s photo of several young men in sailor suits standing near a sailboat was determined with the help of readers Jim Wiswell and Ted Dalman. Both said the men in the photo were Sea Scouts and that Bill and Ted Buehler were active in that Boy Scout-affiliated organization. Staff was then able to find the original article on Hubert Cook’s donation of the boat to the local Sea Explorers group. Pictured are (from left) Bill Buehler, Jack Kelly, Cook, George Udris, Phil Sheldon and Ralph Gwinn. The photo was taken on Gull Lake at the Cook cottage. Reader Charles Harthy identified another person in the Highland’s Dairy photo that ran in January. The man on the left, he said, is Vince Oviatt, who was sanitarian with the Barry County Health Department. Harthy said Oviatt lived next door to his then-future wife and she baby-sat their sons. Oviatt, he said, went on to work for the Michigan Department of Health in Lansing and ultimately to a position in Washington, D.C. met? Rosemary (O’Mara) Hickey, the youngest of six children, grew up on Jordan Lake Highway in Lake Odessa and graduated from Lake Odessa High School in 1952. She attended business school after graduation. In 1957, she Married Jim Hickey. They raised five children and have 10 grandchildren. Jim died in 2001. Rosie caters local events for the Lake Odessa VFW, churches and other organizations. Always behind the scene and preferring it that way, Rosie works tirelessly in many different roles. She is a member of the VFW Post 4461, trustee for the Ionia County Genealogical Society, member of St. Edward Catholic Church, Lake Odessa Area Historical Society and the Woodland Women’s Study Club. Famous American, living or dead, you would like to meet: John F. Kennedy. He would have made a great president if he could have lived longer. If you could go back in time, you would go: Back to when people weren’t so rushed in all they have to do. If you could choose a superpower: I would be in more than one place [at a time] to take care of more things. Worst summer job: Picking sweet corn to sell — scratches. the family comes home there would be more room. What book are you currently reading and would you recommend it? The Healing by Wanda Brunstetter, and yes, I would. Favorite book: Frank McCord on his life in Ireland — specifically Limerick where my grandparents came from. Most beautiful place you’ve been: Hawaii, Ireland and northern Michigan. Most people not know and would be surprised to learn: That I have always been a very shy person. Advice to young men and women today: If you have good friends, always stand by them through good times and bad. Favorite song: Harbor Lights’ “How Great Thou Art.” Rosemary Hickey If you won the lottery, you would: Help my family and enlarge my house so when all Each week, the Banner profiles a person from the community working behind the scenes, whose efforts may not make headlines, but whose dedication makes Barry County shine. We’ll provide a quick peek each week at some of Barry County’s stars. Do you know someone who should be featured? Send information to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@jadgraphics.com. Last week across the country, Americans celebrated Independence Day with picnics, barbecues, parades and all kinds of celebrations in recognition of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The special document approved more 236 years ago says, in part, that all men are created equal, that their Creator with certain unalienable rights endows them and among these rights are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. The document, written by Thomas Jefferson and revised by John Adams, Benjamin Franklin and Jefferson, has stood the test of time, outlasting political parties and countless congresses. Every year, celebrations are held in big cities like Chicago, New York, Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia. Yet, if you ventured to the cities or villages around us, you could also enjoy fireworks, food and entertainment of all kinds in celebration of the special holiday. In Hastings, one of the five summer concerts by the Hastings City Band fell on the Fourth of July so, in celebration, director Joe LaJoye and his band selected a patriotic musical tribute to our country. As part of the special concert, Robert C. Oster, artistic director and conductor of the Lakewood Choral Society, was on hand as guest conductor, along with three sopranos and four tenors from the choral society. In keeping with the special theme, the band featured a salute to the music of Irving Berlin and a medley of songs from all the branches of the nation’s armed forces, as well as several well-known marches, including John Philip Sousa’s “Stars and Strips Forever.” More than 200 years ago, John Adams wrote some prophetic words of the signing of the special document. “I believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival,” Adams wrote to his wife, Abigail. “It ought to be celebrated by pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires and illuminations from one end of this continent to the other.” I thought of Adams and these words as my wife and I, along with hundreds from the community, enjoyed the Hastings City Band and choral society members as they filled the courthouse square with music that made all of us proud to be Americans. The Hastings band continues a long history that dates back to 1857 when a dozen or more citizens got together to form a city band, under the direction of Julius Russell. In the early days, most musicians had little or no formal training, but they did their best to bring some music to our community. Today, the current band is filled with 60 or so accomplished musicians who use their participation to show off their talents as the band plans the summer concert series each year. It was just as John Adams imagined: a What do you small town getting together on the courthouse lawn to enjoy citizen musicians using their talents to bring great music for all of us to enjoy in celebration of our independence. Hats off to the Hastings City Band for a fine performance and for bringing all of us in attendance a quality performance like others might enjoy in a larger city (but with more shade and without the heavy traffic or distant parking lots). In a few weeks, we will be asked to head to the polls for a primary election. It’s the responsibility of each of us to take part in this special election that, in some cases, will decide the fall election. It’s our responsibility as citizens of this great nation to be vigilant in protecting the foundation of our government, our democracy by taking part in selecting its leadership. Prior to the election, the Banner will publish a special election edition, with information about the candidates and their positions on the issues facing our county and country. Set aside some time to read and study the candidates and their positions so our community can select the best representatives to lead local government. The country’s economy has been in a stall now for more than four years. We need to find the right candidates with the necessary credentials to put into place the changes necessary to get this sluggish economy moving again. Locally, elected officials will have to deal with a number of important issues, especially when budgets are bloated and revenues continue to decline. It’s not a perfect time for anyone in a leadership position, but finding the right people for the job will determine how long the stagnation will continue. Read up and be prepared to make the best choices. Countdown to the Barry County fair begins Just like it has for 160 years, the Barry County Fair kicks off this weekend with non-livestock judging, a mule pull and all kinds of livestock projects. Plan to attend the annual event — showcasing Barry County youths, their projects and activities along with rides, food and lots of fun. After 160 years, the annual fair still remains one of the most popular events throughout the summer. And, don’t miss the annual small animal sale Thursday, followed by the large animal sale Friday. Area 4-Hers need our support for both of these sales – so get out and support our 4H youths in one of county’s greatest activities for young people. think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website, www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week. Feel free to leave an opinion or comment. Last week’s question: The U.S. Supreme Court ruled last week that the Affordable Health Care Act is constitutionally sound. The decision is now expected to become a political referendum for voters in November’s presidential election. Do you support the Court’s ruling? 51% 49% Yes No Fred Jacobs vice president, J-Ad Graphics For this week: The latest section of the Riverwalk in Hastings is less than a year old but sees a lot of traffic, including runners, walker, bikers, and others with strollers, skates and skateboards. Have you checked out the Riverwalk? q q YES NO �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, July 12, 2012 — Page 5 Loss of common sense rife among elected officials IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV Keep best courthouse staff To the editor: As a land surveyor, my work takes me to the courthouses in many counties. I know from years of experience that Barry County is blessed with the best-run, friendliest, most helpful and most efficient courthouse in our area. I am writing to express my support for Barb Hurless for register of deeds. Barb has worked in the office since 1999, the past several years as chief deputy. Of the three candidates running, only Barb Hurless has the knowledge and experience to run the office competently and efficiently. Good government begins with good people in office. Yes, in Barry County we are blessed, we are fortunate to have such good people working in our courthouse. The ballot box is where we can make our own luck. If we support and vote for the best candidates, they will prevail. If you don’t, they won’t. Either way, we will get the government we deserve. Brian Reynolds, Hastings Everyone invited to Saturday fly-in To the editor: The Hastings Flying Association is holding its annual dawn patrol pancake breakfast and fly-in on a different day this year: Saturday, July 14, from 8 a.m. to noon. Each year there are more participants, not only from Hastings, but also from Michigan and adjoining states. There’s nothing better than piloting your personal plane to Hastings to enjoy a good breakfast and meet old friends, and we have found that the airborne visitors are bringing increasingly exotic ‘birds’ to the event. The food will be good, and there will be lots to see. It will be your chance to meet old friends and view the many changes at the airport. More hangars are open, and additional ones are almost completed. We hope to see you there. John E. Mantle, Hastings Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. The Hastings Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Bonnie Mattson • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 To the editor I must wear my seat belt while riding in an enclosed automobile or get ticketed and fined, yet I don’t have to wear a motorcycle helmet while riding on an un-enclosed vehicle on the roadways. Sounds like nerd reasoning to me. Who is going to pay for all of the long-term care caused by all of the head injuries from bike accidents? Insurance companies? I don’t think so. The good old government (taxpayers) will carry the burden. With a third of America burning, our politicians have allowed more expensive and (state taxable) fireworks to be purchased. Just think of the work this will create for the fire departments due to the additional runs required to put out all the accidental fires created by the careless and irresponsible use of these highpowered fireworks. Local, state and federal government must investigate all possible avenues of revenue, because we can’t just stop spending. Live Make a difference: vote To the editor: If you want to make a difference in Barry County, you must vote in the Aug. 7 primary. If you are unable to go to the polls Aug. 7, you can vote by absentee ballot simply by asking for one from your municipal or township clerk. Thousands of voters in Barry County vote absentee in every election. Make your voice heard – vote. I want my elected officials to care passionately for Barry County and ever one of her citizens. That is why I will be voting for Julie Nakfoor Pratt for prosecutor. She represents Barry County’s values of hard work, honesty and integrity. People who abuse or neglect children, those who bully or mistreat anyone including the elderly will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. You can not expect a plea bargain. Julie will return justice to Barry County for everyone. Please join me Aug. 7 by voting in the primary. Make a difference. Shirley Barnum, Hastings Victim given no justice To the editor: March 22, I was the victim of a shooting in the southern part of Barry County. It all started when I had gone to property that was owned by my family for many years, and because of underhanded dealings, the property was sold out from underneath me. I had contacted my attorney about some items that were still on the property and he told me I had a right to get those items. I drove to the property and nobody was there, so I proceeded to go out behind a barn to get a dog house I needed. When I got behind the barn, I found that the dog house had been destroyed, so I turned my truck around began to leave. While going towards the road, the man who had obtained the property was standing in the lane, so I stopped. He was holding a handgun and yelling at me. I began to drive forward to leave the property and he began shooting at me. Four shots were fired at the front of my vehicle – two in the radiator, one in the roof line of my truck, and one through the driver’s side of the windshield, hitting the headrest. Because of the shooting, I laid down on the seats as I drove forward, and luckily I did, because the shot through the windshield would have killed me. The shooter than ran to his right, and as I drove past him, he shot at least three more times, striking the driver’s side mirror, and twice through the driver’s door. The one shot that sent through the door struck me in the left knee. I was able to drive off the property and went to a neighbors house, where calls were made to 911 and an ambulance. As a result of the injury, I was treated in a hospital in Battle Creek where I spent five days. The shooter was arrested that night, however, he was never taken to court on the incident. The reason I was given as for no action being taken was the prosecutor said there was no probable cause. The shooter had told the sheriff’s department that I had tried to run him down with my truck. Angles of the bullet holes found, as contained in the police report from the Barry County Sheriff’s Department, show that I was not driving at the shooter, but trying to escape the shooter at the time. When I was released from the hospital, I found out that no charges were filed with the court. I have tried numerous times to talk with the Barry County prosecutor about this, however have received no responses to my many calls. As a victim in this case, I feel that the prosecutor has failed to represent me. If this is how the current prosecutor represents a victim, he is not worthy of holding this office and should be replaced. I will support Julie Reader supports Prairieville clerk candidate To the editor: The Aug. 7 vote is fast approaching. I would like to ask for support of Ted DeVries for Prairieville Township clerk. Ted has been in the Prairieville area as a property owner for 10 years and as a resident, has a stake in the functioning of our township. Ted and his wife, Maryann, purchased property in the area for a summer home, liking the area so much, they moved to the area and made it their home. He has computer experience and is interested in the continued effort of updating of the township’s processes. As deputy clerk, Ted has attended classes pertinent to the duties of the position. He has shown his dedication to the position by working extra days and attending township meetings he is not required to attend. Please vote for Ted DeVries Aug. 7 for Prairieville Township clerk. Lorraine M Brown, Plainwell Nakfoor Pratt for office of the Barry County prosecutor, and encourage all other Barry County voters to do the same. The current prosecutor needs to be replaced so victims in Barry County are represented fairly. Karen Lawrence, Bellevue within our means — whoa, what is that? Antigovernment. In the end, our politicians know that the working man and woman will pay one way or another for all the foolish ideas and programs they can think up. Now don’t get me wrong. Who knows better what the taxpayer wants and what the taxpayer needs than our elected officials. It is almost like once you get elected, you lose all sense of reality when it comes to using common sense in making decisions that affect so many. It is almost like if you can’t live within your budget, you must go out and find other areas to regulate and other revenue generators that you think might bring in the bucks. Recent things that come to mind are the idea of annual inspections of wheelchair ramps. Of all things. I am sure, you have seen quite a few wheelchair ramps that really appear unsafe. Just think of all the injuries that have occurred due to people in wheelchairs falling off and through these unsafe structures. Creating a chairman and board to run the Animal Control facility in Barry County. No matter that there is barely enough money to operate it the way it is currently managed. Add a committee here and there, throw in a chairman, have some more meetings and watch it grow. Just like a plant or a tree that is not pruned. It grows out of control. Every stem, every branch struggling for life and not enough water nor enough light to sustain every one of them. Sound familiar? I think we deserve better. Will we get it? I doubt it. The machine has to keep on rolling at all cost. Can we afford it? Apparently it does not matter. Remember, more is better. That is until the base becomes overloaded and it all collapses. Robert C. Taylor, Hastings BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY by Gerald Stein This week’s column will revisit a topic of concern for most bridge players: “Why You Lose at Bridge.” In a recent column, S.J.Simon’s classic bridge book was mentioned. A look at how to change that awful predicament and how you can improve your bridge game will become a series of columns over the next few weeks. Many new and even many bridge players who have played for years still have this secret prayer when they sit down to the bridge table: “Please, Lord, don’t let me get the good cards. I want to be the dummy.” The fear and the hesitation that come over bridge players when confronted with the good hands and the big hands is a terrible thing to see. They dread bidding; they dread playing the hand; they dread their partner’s wrath; they dread their opponents’ pity. Why then do they play bridge? Are there healthy solutions that can make this a fun game no matter what your experience, no matter what your bridge level, no matter what your expertise? Of course, there are. Bridge should be fun. It should be a healthy game for all, and it should be something that is enjoyed, and it should not be a dreaded afternoon or evening. First, let us look at the new players. They are intrigued by the game, and they are eager to learn its many facets. Unfortunately, bridge is not a game that you can sit down to in one session and pick up the basics immediately. Instead, bridge is a game of lifelong learning. You learn new concepts, and you use some of them each time you play. For newer players, it is a continuous road-trip of learning how to play, how to bid, how to defend, how to have fun, how to make new friends, and how to make bridge an enjoyable hobby for many years to come. How then do new players survive all of the learning and all of the rules and laws and ways of playing bridge? New players are eager players. They want to learn how to play. They have played other card games for many years. They have played pinochle, euchre, poker, hearts, crazy eights, and old maid. They are ready for a really challenging game, and they think they have found it in bridge. And they are right. Bridge is a challenging and wonderful mental game. True, there is luck involved to some extent, but bridge requires you to use skill and mental focus called concentration to play the game well. These are skills that one can work at through a number of avenues. Because the world of bridge has changed so much in the past 40 years, many new players feel better about learning bridge when they take bridge classes from bridge instructors who are familiar with the newest concepts and newest ways of teaching bridge. These instructors know the Goren way of playing bridge because they learned that way just like everyone else who learned to play bridge forty years ago. The new players have a distinct advantage, however. They do not have to learn about four-card majors; they do not have to learn about short club bids; they do not have to learn about strong two-bids in clubs, diamonds, hearts, and spades. The newcomers then are open to the newest changes that make bridge even more enjoyable in the 21st century. They quickly learn about five-card majors as opposed to a fourcard major opening bid; they learn about convenient minor bids instead of a short club bid; they learn that a strong two-bid has been condensed into a single bid of two clubs because a strong two-bid does not come up that often. They learn that weak two-bids are all the rage; they learn the Stayman bid in their first class, and they learn and use Jacoby Transfers, negative doubles, and take-out doubles within a few weeks. They have fun learning and using all of these new tools. As one student put it so succinctly, “You have a toolbox full of many different choices. You do not have to rely just on a hammer to get the job done.” New bridge players enjoy their classes because they are hands-on classes. Cards are touched and played with lots of questions allowed and chances to replay or take back, ask the instructor, ask each other. There is a lot of laughter and smiling going on. Soon they want to put their new-found knowledge to the test, and this is where many newcomers experience the dread and the pitfalls of bridge playing and bridge groups. Why then do beginning bridge players lose at bridge? There are at least four answers with some solutions: Beginners lose at bridge because they lack the experience of playing the game for thirty or forty years. They simply lack playing time. Solution? Play a lot of bridge. Second, beginners find that there is so much to remember playing bridge at first. Solution? Learn the basics and stick to them. Third and fourth seem to go together: Beginners lack confidence and lack concentration. Solutions? Go in with a positive attitude that you will learn something new each and every time that you play bridge. Focus on your cards, smile often at your partner, listen to the bidding, and be prepared to take your tricks when you should. Next time, we will visit with players who have played a while and who want to improve their game. Until then, play bridge and welcome those new players with a smile and a cheery hello. Help them become confident and better bridge players through your help, your experience, and your success. Play bridge and have fun. ***** Solution to last week’s bridge question: how can you take all 13 tricks? If you worked on the hearts, there is your answer. An extra heart trick will give you all 13 tricks if you have four diamonds, five spades, three heart tricks and one club trick. ***** Bridge Class Update: A nine-week beginning bridge class will be held at the KCC Fehsenfeld Center in Hastings on Wednesdays, 10 AM-12 Noon, starting October 3, 2012. Contact the Institute for Learning in Retirement at KCC. “Bidding in the 21st Century” is appropriate for new players as well as those who want a refresher course. ***** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) �Page 6 — Thursday, July 12, 2012 — The Hastings Banner See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. Area Obituaries J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits Worship Together… Gary A. Sleeman Anne Luczka Bortak – April 20, 1914 - Dec. 7, 2011 77569233 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 . ORANGEVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH 6921 Marsh Rd., 2 miles south of Gun Lake, Plainwell. Phone 269664-4377. OrangevilleBaptist.org. Pastors Dan Bowman and Adam Parmenter. Sundays - 9:45-10:45 a.m. Sunday school classes for age 2 through adults; 11 a.m. Summer messages: “God’s Ten Words For a Vital Spiritual Life” (The Ten Commandments); 5:30 p.m. Teen Word of Life Club; 6 p.m. “Guard the Gospel” A study of 2 Timothy. Wednesdays - 7 p.m. prayer; 8:30 p.m. Men’s Bible Study. MondayFriday - July 9-13 - 9:30 a.m.-noon, Vacation Bible School, age 5-7th grade with Uncle Al Torres - RBM Minstries. Sunday, July 15 - Guest speaker, Dr. Eldon Stevens. Sunday, August 19 - Summer concert. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Rev. Ryan Wieland. Sundays - 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Service; Sunday School and Nursery available during both services (Summer Schedule - Adult Sunday School: 9 a.m., Worship & Children’s Programs 10 a.m.) Youth Group, Covenant Prayer, Choir, Chimes, Praise Band, Quilting Group, Community Breakfasts and more! Call the church office at (269) 721-8077 (M/W/F 9 a.m.-12 p.m.), e-mail office@mei.net or visit www.countrychapelumc.org <http://www.countrychapelumc.org/> for more information SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 9:15 Contemporary Worship, 10:30 a.m. Refreshments, 11 a.m. Traditional Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Youth Pastor, Eric Gillespie. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. for children and youth, and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Junior & Senior High Youth Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Mid-Week Pioneers and adult classes return in September. Thursday: Senior Adult Bible Study at 10 a.m. and lunch at Wendy’s, 11:30 a.m. Vacation Bible School: Wed. & Thurs., July 25 & 26, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot.com. Friday - 9 a.m. Golfer’s Group Meets; 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday - 4 p.m Pickleball; 6:30 p.m. SoftballCedar Creek Field; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings Fiberglass Products 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 Wendell Lloyd Smith GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Sunday, July 15 - One Worship Service 15 10 a.m. July14 Brothers of Grace Highway Pick-up 9 a.m. July 15 - Congregational Annual Meeting 10 a.m.; Men’s Alcoholics Anonymous 7 p.m. July 16 - Spiritual Alcoholics Anonymous 7:30 p.m. Gracegram deadline. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 945-2645, fax 269945-2698. Pastor Amy Luckey. http://www.discover-grace.org COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. Lauer Family Funeral Homes HICKORY CORNERS, MI – Gary A. Sleeman of Hickory Corners passed away July 8, 2012. Gary was born February 18, 1965 in Kalamazoo, the son of Earl and Sandra (Frisbee) Sleeman. A millwright with Local 1102 for many years, Gary enjoyed fishing and working on cars, especially with his father-in-law. Gary also enjoyed spending time with his nieces and nephews. On November 17, 2006, Gary married Beth Cheney who survives. He is also survived by his mother; brothers, Andy (Lori) Sleeman, Steve (Lori) Sleeman, Troy Sleeman; his father-in-law, William Cheney; his dog and constant companion, Taylor, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father. Gary’s family will receive friends Friday, July 13, 2012 from 5 to 6 p.m. at Hickory Corners Bible Church, where a memorial service will be conducted at 6 p.m. Pastor Jeff Worden will officiate. Memorial contributions to Barry County Humane Society will be appreciated. Please visit www.williamsgoresfuneral.com to view Gary’s online guest book or to leave a condolence message for the family. 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 HASTINGS, MI – Wendell Lloyd Smith, age 80, of Hastings, passed away at Carveth Village, Middleville, after seven years battling with Myelodysplastic Syndrome. He was born September 3, 1931, the son of Harold and Zelma (Hastings) Smith. Wendell attended Nashville High School, graduating in 1949. In 1983, he retired from Clark Equipment, after 33 years of service. Following retirement, he drove bus for Hastings Public Schools, Barry County Transit, Hartzler Tours of Lake Odessa and BW Charter Tours of Kalamazoo. His enjoyment included traveling and going to new places and visiting different points of interest. He also spent many hours working on his cars, lawn work and riding his Goldwing. He always knew how to fix most anything. He and his wife, Marlene, wintered the last 15 years in Mission, TX. Wendell served in the Michigan National Guard in Charlotte. He was a member of the Hastings Moose Lodge, Hastings CB Radio Club, and the Ringo Swingo Square Dance Club of Hastings. Wendell is survived by his wife of 60 years, Marlene (Bulling); two sons, Scott A. Smith of Denver, CO and Bryan L. Smith of Hastings; two grandchildren, Amanda Smith and Travis Smith of Denver, CO. Honoring his wishes, cremation has taken place. A private graveside service will take place at Lakeside Cemetery in Lake Odessa. A celebration of life luncheon will be held Saturday, August 11, 2012, 2 p.m., at Barry County Commission on Aging, 320 West Woodlawn Ave., Hastings. Memorial contributions may be made to the following organizations: Pennock Hospital, Thornapple Manor, Carveth Village, Barry Community Hospice or the Barry County Commission on Aging. Addresses for these organizations may be found on the funeral home website. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, please visit our website at www.girrbach funeralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message to the family. Anne slipped the bonds of this earth at age 97 following a long decline. She had a strong faith that guided her. Her sense of humor became prominent in her older years. Born in Hamtramck, to Mary and John Luczka, she was the first child baptized in the new Catholic church of the community. Her older sister, Natalie, 7 years older, had been born near Lvov, Ukraine. Two other sisters followed in the next four years, Helen and Jenny. Her neighborhood was composed of other immigrant families attracted by the new industry of automobiles. She described herself as multi-lingual in Ukrainian, German and Polish as a child. “I never knew we were poor because everyone else in the neighborhood lived as we did.” Her mother had a large backyard garden, peach tree and chickens and her father worked for Ford Motor Company. She attended Detroit schools through high school. As the Depression worsened and her father was laid off, all four sisters worked at any job they could find. Anne worked as a taxidancer for a few days, then as a housekeeper and nanny. Later she worked for Burroughs Adding Machine Company for several years. She related these years as some of her happiest and maintained friendships from these days well into her 80s. She met Michael Bortak, also the first-born in America. His parents emigrated from the Slovakian mountains. He became a mechanical engineer through General Motors training. They married August 6, 1938. Four children were born 1942-1948. They were separated by his involvement on the Manhattan project and Oakridge during the war years. In 1950, they moved to Hastings, and Michael worked in a manufacturing plant supporting the automotive industry, tool and die. Anne was skilled at the homemaking arts of sewing, cooking, canning and tutoring her children. As her family grew, she had more time to read and books and crossword puz- zles became her passion. She also had a large music collection most of her life but became so hard of hearing that music passed out of her later years. In her 40s, she became an avid golfer, proud of two hole-in-ones and other trophies. After her husband had a heart attack and several strokes over many years, he became bedridden. Anne nursed him at home for seven years. She stayed in Michigan until 1988 until shoveling the snow overwhelmed her. She followed her sister Helen to Sun City, AZ that year. She loved the heat, found new outlets in her Catholic community and lived there until 2006 when she needed more support. Living in Boise, ID she grew to enjoy the company of her daughter and her family, getting to know her grandchildren as adults, enjoying great grandchildren. She formed a wonderful relationship with Helen Taylor who took her on outings. She had a dog to pet and a cat to ward off with her cane. She enjoyed hours watching birds in the garden. She spent the last 15 months of her life at Heritage Assisted Living with wonderful, caring staff who made her last months loving and comfortable. Her husband Michael C. and son Michael J., sisters Natalie, Helen and Jenny preceded her in death. She died a week before her son, Thomas Bortak. She is survived by daughters, Carole (Daniel) Lamet and Natalie (Ron) Wickham; granddaughters, Amanda Lamet, Julia Willis and Karen Wickham and grandsons Daniel (Verna) Lamet V, Nick Lamet, David Wickham and John Michael (Amanda) Bortak and great grandchildren, Sarah, Jessica, Daniel, Genevieve, Layla and newly arrived Rhyan. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to St. Vincent De Paul, (13217 W. Overland Rd., Boise, ID 83705) or the Learning Lab (3081 E. 36th St., Garden City, 837174). A memorial mass was held January 14, 2012 at Sacred Heart, Latah and Cassia. It’ s A Grand Opening! ay Saturd 2012 , 4 1 y l Ju 00 pm : 4 0 0 : 1 Please join us in celebrating the Grand Opening of your Community Enrichment Center! Enjoy desserts, music and fun for all ages. Come explore all we have to offer! 231 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 (Formerly First Presbyterian Church of Hastings) • Performances by Thornapple Jazz Orchestra • Drawings • Free Hot Dogs for the first 200! • Kids Activities • Popcorn • Sampling of Barry County Desserts • Carnival Games • F3 Energy Garden QUESTIONS? Call 269.945.0526 Thornapple Arts Council LIVE UNITED 07603993 Legacy • Enrichment • Catalyst • Community �Social News The Hastings Banner — Thursday, July 12, 2012 — Page 7 BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY by Gerald Stein This week’s column will revisit a topic of concern for most bridge players: “Why You Lose at Bridge.” In a recent column, S.J.Simon’s classic bridge book was mentioned. A look at how to change that awful predicament and how you can improve your bridge game will become a series of columns over the next few weeks. Many new and even many bridge players who have played for years still have this secret prayer when they sit down to the bridge table: “Please, Lord, don’t let me get the good cards. I want to be the dummy.” The fear and the hesitation that come over bridge players when confronted with the good hands and the big hands is a terrible thing to see. They dread bidding; they dread playing the hand; they dread their partner’s wrath; they dread their opponents’ pity. Why then do they play bridge? Are there healthy solutions that can make this a fun game no matter what your experience, no matter what your bridge level, no matter what your expertise? Of course, there are. Bridge should be fun. It should be a healthy game for all, and it should be something that is enjoyed, and it should not be a dreaded afternoon or evening. First, let us look at the new players. They are intrigued by the game, and they are eager to learn its many facets. Unfortunately, bridge is not a game that you can sit down to in one session and pick up the basics immediately. Instead, bridge is a game of lifelong learning. You learn new concepts, and you use some of them each time you play. For newer players, it is a continuous road-trip of learning how to play, how to bid, how to defend, how to have fun, how to make new friends, and how to make bridge an enjoyable hobby for many years to come. How then do new players survive all of the learning and all of the rules and laws and ways of playing bridge? New players are eager players. They want to learn how to play. They have played other card games for many years. They have played pinochle, euchre, poker, hearts, crazy eights, and old maid. They are ready for a really challenging game, and they think they have found it in bridge. And they are right. Bridge is a challenging and wonderful mental game. True, there is luck involved to some extent, but bridge requires you to use skill and mental focus called concentration to play the game well. These are skills that one can work at through a number of avenues. Because the world of bridge has changed so much in the past 40 years, many new players feel better about learning bridge when they take bridge classes from bridge instructors who are familiar with the newest concepts and newest ways of teaching bridge. These instructors know the Goren way of playing bridge because they learned that way just like everyone else who learned to play bridge forty years ago. The new players have a distinct advantage, however. They do not have to learn about four-card majors; they do not have to learn about short club bids; they do not have to learn about strong two-bids in clubs, diamonds, hearts, and spades. The newcomers then are open to the newest changes that make bridge even more enjoyable in the 21st century. They quickly learn about five-card majors as opposed to a four-card major opening bid; they learn about convenient minor bids instead of a short club bid; they learn that a strong two-bid has been condensed into a single bid of two clubs because a strong two-bid does not come up that often. They learn that weak two-bids are all the rage; they learn the Stayman bid in their first class, and they learn and use Jacoby Transfers, negative doubles, and take-out doubles within a few weeks. They have fun learning and using all of these new tools. As one student put it so succinctly, “You have a toolbox full of many different choices. You do not have to rely just on a hammer to get the job done.” New bridge players enjoy their classes because they are hands-on classes. Cards are touched and played with lots of questions allowed and chances to replay or take back, ask the instructor, ask each other. There is a lot of laughter and smiling going on. Soon they want to put their new-found knowledge to the test, and this is where many newcomers experience the dread and the pitfalls of bridge playing and bridge groups. Why then do beginning bridge players lose at bridge? There are at least four answers with some solutions: Beginners lose at bridge because they lack the experience of playing the game for thirty or forty years. They simply lack playing time. Solution? Play a lot of bridge. Second, beginners find that there is so much to remember playing bridge at first. Solution? Learn the basics and stick to them. Third and fourth seem to go together: Beginners lack confidence and lack concentration. Solutions? Go in with a positive attitude that you will learn something new each and every time that you play bridge. Focus on your cards, smile often at your partner, listen to the bidding, and be prepared to take your tricks when you should. Next time, we will visit with players who have played a while and who want to improve their game. Until then, play bridge and welcome those new players with a smile and a cheery hello. Help them become confident and better bridge players through your help, your experience, and your success. Play bridge and have fun. ***** Solution to last week’s bridge question: how can you take all 13 tricks? If you worked on the hearts, there is your answer. An extra heart trick will give you all 13 tricks if you have four diamonds, five spades, three heart tricks and one club trick. ***** Bridge Class Update: A nine-week beginning bridge class will be held at the KCC Fehsenfeld Center in Hastings on Wednesdays, 10 AM-12 Noon, starting October 3, 2012. Contact the Institute for Learning in Retirement at KCC. “Bidding in the 21st Century” is appropriate for new players as well as those who want a refresher course. ***** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) Marriage Licenses Free Community Breakfast Happy 80th birthday to Gordon Case on July 8, 2012. Cards may be sent to 2800 Worgess Rd., Hastings, MI 49058. Pumford-Case Wayne and Patti Pumford of Hastings wish to announce the engagement of their daughter, Paige Christine to Adam Donald Case, the son of Brian and Michelle Case of Battle Creek. The bride-elect attended Hastings Area Schools and is a 2010 homeschool graduate. She is currently enrolled in the Speech Language Pathology Program at Grand Valley State University. She is currently employed in her family’s business at Cornerstone Living Center. The groom-elect is a 2004 graduate of Hastings High School and a 2009 graduate of Central Michigan University with a degree in education. He is currently employed at Hastings area schools. The couple will celebrate the covenant of marriage on Aug. 4, 2012. 7:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Emmanuel Episcopal Church Carl and Mary Ellen (Mulder) Belson are celebrating their 70th wedding anniversary. They were married in Byron, Ohio on July 18, 1942. They are celebrating with a family gathering hosted by daughters Merry Ossenheimer and Sandy Shaffer. Carl and Mary are the original owners of the Barn Market in the 1950s and have five grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Historic Charlton Park’s Gas & Steam Engine Club Presents the Newborn Babies 315 West Green Street, Hastings, Michigan Everyone Welcome 07604238 41st Annual: Antique Gas & Steam Engine Show FRIDAY & SATURDAY, JULY 13 & 14, 2012 FRIDAY: 8:00 A.M. - DUSK SATURDAY: 8:00 A.M. - DUSK Celebrating Our Local Rural Heritage UPCOMING EVENTS: Civil War Muster - Sat./Sun July 21 & 22 County Yard Sale/Antique Motor Boat Show - Sat. July 28 Great Lakes Longbow Invitational Fri. - Sun. Aug 10, 11, 12 Jaiden James, born at Saint Mary’s Health Care, Grand Rapids on June 26, 2012 to Jessica Harvath of Hastings. Weighing 1 lb. 10 ounces, 12 inches long. ***** Oakley Marie June, born at Pennock Hospital on June 22, 2012 at 11:54 a.m. to Amanda Zalewski and Charles Reigler of Hastings. Weighing 8 lbs. 6 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Isaac Joshua, born at Pennock Hospital on June 24, 2012 at 11:22 to Stephanie Wymer and Joshua Walle of Hastings and Olivet. Weighing 8 lbs. 6 ozs. and 20 1/2 inches long. ***** Kylah May, born at Pennock Hospital on June 22, 2012 at 10:15 p.m. to Brooke Warner and Colby Wise of Hastings. Weighing 8 lbs. 3 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Rowan Michael, born at Pennock Hospital on June 26, 2012 at 10:20 p.m. to Brittany Hillard and Brandon Van Liew of Holt. Weighing 8 lbs. 3 ozs. and 19 1/2 inches long. Everyone’s Invited! Steam Engine & Tractor Parade Friday 2pm; Saturday 2pm Run Your Engines Here! *Show content is subject to change. GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Call 945-9554 for more information. Bernice Leonard celebrates 90th birthday Bernice Leonard will celebrate her 90th birthday on July 19, 2012. She would enjoy hearing from family, friends and neighbors. Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Saturdays in July and August Donations accepted but not required. Belsons will celebrate 70th anniversary Gordon Case celebrates 80th birthday 77569212 Jenee (Newton) and Eric Phillips celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary on July 10. They were married on July 10, 1987 in Hastings. Their loving, happy marriage has been an inspiration to their entire family throughout the years, including their two daughters who love them very much. Their family would like to wish them a happy anniversary and joy for the many more anniversaries to come. 07604226 Sixty years ago on June 28, 1952 Leona (Johnson) and Dick Shriver were married in Hastings. They have been longtime residents of Hastings and attend the Bible Missionary Church here in town and enjoy being involved with their mission work within Michigan. Come and celebrate with them on Saturday, July 14th, (home of daughter and son-in-law) at 2841 Hammond Road from 2 to 4:30. (Turn north off State Road near River Bend Golf Course, watch for signs). They are the parents of Larry Shriver of Hastings, Linda (Al) Weyerman, and Teresa Smith of Gowen. Grandparents to Paul Cooley of Belding and great grandparents to Nate and Matt. They look forward to the gift of your fellowship as they celebrate. In Memory of Lloyd Shepard In Honor of Dave Barry, Jr. DEMONSTRATIONS AND EXHIBITS • Steamboats on the Thornapple • 1895 Corley Sawmill • Wheat Threshing • Baker Fan • Spark Show at Dusk • Steamed Corn • Antique Trucks • Tractor Parade • Gas Engines • Hit and Miss Engines • Antique Motorcycles • Food Vendors • Kids Pedal Pull & Sawdust Scramble • Shingles Sawed & Branded • Swap Meet ADMISSION - FRIDAY & SATURDAY Adults (13 & Over) $5.00 • Children (5-12 years old) $3.00 dren Swap Meet Spaces $10.00 Chil Camping $6.00 per unit for non-members. 4 and younger Camp Thursday, Friday & Saturday FREE Admission & Camping is FREE for exhibitors 2545 S. Charlton Park Rd. • Hastings, MI 49058 • (269) 945-3775 www.charltonpark.org Our services are for everyone. For assistance in accessing events or for individual support, please call our office three (3) business days in advance. 06786285 Jenee and Eric Phillips celebrate 25th wedding anniversary Wesley Allan Semler, Hastings and Lavonne Esther Ogg, Delton. Terry Lee Derby, Hastings and Donna Kathleen Reis, Hastings. Tad Lynn Kruisenga, Hastings and Staci Christine Chandler, Hastings. Nicholas Charles Austin, Vermontville and Rebecca Ann Holland, Nashville. John Phillip McAlevey, Lake Odessa and Nicole Sue Case, Lake Odessa. James Hudson Tolan, Caledonia and Johanna Cornelia Vanderwoude, Middleville. Darin Michael Card, Delton and Holly Marie Bidinger, Hastings. Justin Michael Lennon, Delton and Grace Anne Buskirk, Delton. Steven James Ryan, Jr., Grand Rapids and Rachel Lizabeth Deppe, Middleville. Louis Frederick Wierenga, Jr., Hastings and Mary Therese Pokora, Grandville. Tony Allen Green, Nashville and Terria Lynn Anderson, St. Johns. Joshua Michael Guckenberger, Evanston, Ill. and Kelli Rae Forrest, Evanston, Ill. Donald Martin Stampfler, Delton and Christine Kay Morton, Allegan. Andrew Logan Snow, Bellevue and Jamie Nicole Vreugde, Bellevue. Shrivers celebrate 60th anniversary �Page 8 — Thursday, July 12, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of by Elaine Garlock The Ionia County Genealogical Society meets at 1 p.m. Saturday, July 14, at the Freight House. The speaker will be a gentleman from Bellevue. If you missed his presentation at a recent historical society meeting, here is your chance to hear the man. His presentation is fast-paced and interesting. Ron and Christine Cunningham of Georgia have been visiting their daughter and other relatives for two weeks. They returned home last weekend. Glenn and Kathy Good of Morrison Lake are now settled in their new home in Alphretta, GA. Sunday, Aug. 5, the congregation of Central United Methodist Church will hold its morning worship service on the south lawn. Guests should bring their own lawn chairs. A brunch will follow. This is an annual event. Central United Methodist Church will hold its annual summer Bible school July 23 to 26 from 1 to 8:30 each evening. Depot Day is coming Saturday, July 28. The honorees this year are members of the local Lions Club, which has been a valued service organization for more than 50 years in Lake Odessa. The local club has provided its share of district governors. Lions past and present are invited to attend and appear on stage early in the afternoon. Art in the Park took place Saturday. The event was hampered by the extreme heat in the upper 90s. Food vendors were located at the south side along M-50. There was entertainment on stage during most of the hours. The Hosford House at the north side of the depot complex has a new concrete porch with a door to the dining room and windows to the kitchen. Doors on the house have been replaced with doors of proper vintage. One has a full-length glass insert and the other has two lights. Stowell builders have done the work. The extreme heat last week reminded local residents of other hot summers such as that of 1988, 1936 and others. We are fortunate to have electricity to power our air conditioners, fans and other devices. We had continuous electric service, unlike our neighbors to the east, some of who were without power for four days. The green beans are rolling every day at Twin City Foods. Monday, we saw the first truck filled with green bean clippings being hauled to a nearby farm for disposal. Semi trucks are used for bringing in the bean crop, which is being harvested in southern Indiana. The harvest moves north day by day through the season which runs about two months. This harvest brings many new employees. The Rev. Karen Sorden made her first appearance in the pulpit Sunday, July 1, at Central United Methodist Church. She and retired educator Bill Eckstrom share a home- town. Both are from Grant, but they lived there at different times. Residents of Johnson Street now have a new fire hydrant just south of the new 12-inch water main which runs along Johnson Lane. This replaces one that was located mid-block in front of the Goodsell-Yonkers house. This brings a much higher volume of water available to the block. The Lake Odessa Fair ended Sunday, July 1, with a brilliant fireworks display. It was spectacular. The afternoon brought the ladies’ day program with the biannual quilt show. The Morris building at the west end of the grounds makes a fine setting with a cool breeze, lots of cold drinks, a beautiful array of quilts and wall hangings, and many door prizes for the quilt show provided by local merchants. Nancy Potter was the narrator. Two young girls did the ladder work to hold the quilts suspended from the top of the ladders to display their full beauty. Mrs. Helen Richmond accompanied her daughter Marge Wisnewski of Durand to Lake Odessa Saturday, June 30. Marge attended the alumni banquet and the open house at the Freight House while her mother visited her sons here. The alumni banquet drew more than 250 to St. Edward Family Center for the annual gathering of graduates of Lake Odessa High School. The steamlined program had responses from Don Eckman from 1942, Richard Pitman from the class of 1952 and Gary Goodemoot from the class of 1962. Jeff Speas provided vocal music. Thelma Curtis was the entertaining emcee. Dr. Lola Haller gave the roll call of classes. There was one person each from the classes 1936 to 1941 and multiples from the other classes. A lineup of investment moves worth considering This week, Major League Baseball’s AllStar Game is scheduled to be played in Kansas City. Whether you’re rooting for the American or National League, you’ll no doubt admire the ability and athleticism exhibited by these tremendous ballplayers. Of course, any all-star team is made up of players who bring different talents to the game. And this same approach — of combining a collection of skills toward one common effort — can be found in other endeavors, one of which is investing. Here, then, is one possible lineup of investment moves to consider: • Diversify. All investments have both benefits and risks. As an investor, your goal is to help maximize the benefits and minimize the risks — and one of the best ways to do this is by diversifying your money across a range of assets. Diversifying can help you reduce the impact of market volatility that might affect your portfolio if all your money was tied up in one particular asset class, and that asset went through a “down” period. Keep in mind, though, that diversification, by itself, cannot guarantee profits or protect against loss. • Rebalance. Even without your taking significant actions, your portfolio can evolve in ways that may not be to your liking. For example, if some of your more aggressive investments appreciate greatly, they may eventually constitute a larger percentage of your holdings than you had planned — and in doing so, elevate your overall risk level. To prevent this from happening, you should meet with your financial advisor periodically to “rebalance” your portfolio. • Seek quality. Many people latch onto “hot” investments, only to be disappointed when they “cool off.” Instead seek quality vehicles — the ones that generally lose the HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, July 12 — Movie Memories goes fishing with “Miranda,” 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, July 13 — preschool story time settles down for a “good night, sleep tight,” 10:30 to 11 a.m. Monday, July 16 — summer reading program, “Dream Big, Read,” continues; library board meets, 4 to 6 p.m.; computer class tackles “How do I turn this darned thing off?” 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 17 — toddler story time settles down for some “sweet dreams,” 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30; open chess club, 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, July 18 — summer reading invites everyone to relax to the sweet sounds of Ben Brown,” 2 to 3 p.m. Call the library for more information about any of the above, 269-945-4263. Keep your friends and relatives informed. Send them THE HASTINGS BANNER. To subscribe, call 269-945-9554. HELP WANTED TO SET UP RIDES Paid in cash when job completed. Must be over 18. Report to Barry County Fairgrounds 77569404 02709513 Monday, July 16 at 10:00 a.m. ready to work. TWO BROTHERS AND A TENT For All Your Tent Rental Needs Tables and chairs available. 269-967-8241 Call: Dan McKinney 269-838-7057 or Tom McKinney 269-838-3842 77568328 77566915 ® The 77564841 77569338 Every Day Serving Plainwell Ice Cream and Specialty Roasted Coffee Coffee Espresso Ice Cream Custom Sodas Sandwiches Fresh Baked Goods EDWARD JONES 108 W. State St. Downtown Hastings COFFEE HOUSE Mon-Tue: 5AM-7PM Wed: 5AM-8PM Thur-Sat: 5AM-9PM Sun:Closed Facebook & Twitter @TheStateGrounds least ground when the market is down and recover more quickly when the market rallies. When you invest in stocks, for instance, look for those companies that have strong management teams, competitive products and good business models. When you purchase bonds, look for those with high ratings from the independent rating agencies. • Stay invested. It’s tempting to “take a breather” from investing when the financial markets are volatile. But if you stay on the investment sidelines, you may miss out on the beginning of the next market rally. If you’ve built a diversified portfolio of quality vehicles, it may be easier to stay invested. • Know your risk tolerance. If you find yourself constantly fretting about the market’s ups and downs, to the extent that your worries are affecting the quality of your life, you may have a portfolio that’s unsuited to your risk tolerance. Conversely, if you’re dissatisfied with the growth of your investments, you may be investing too cautiously, which could be a concern when you’re striving to reach long-term goals, such as a comfortable retirement. Ultimately, there’s no one “right” way for everyone to invest, but you do need to match your portfolio’s composition with your individual risk tolerance and time horizon. Your financial advisor can help your find the “lineup” of investment moves that is right for you. Put it to work soon. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 35.43 +.47 AT&T 35.44 -.76 BP PLC 39.65 -1.04 CMS Energy Corp 23.70 +.11 Coca-Cola Co 77.98 -.94 Eaton 37.75 -1.46 Family Dollar Stores 69.82 +1.87 Fifth Third Bancorp 13.11 -.39 Flowserve CP 112.55 -2.74 Ford Motor Co. 9.35 -.04 General Mills 38.65 -.34 General Motors 19.80 +.23 Intel Corp. 25.56 -1.10 Kellogg Co. 48.98 -.47 McDonald’s Corp 90.25 +2.17 Pfizer Inc. 22.44 +.58 Ralcorp 67.05 -.98 Sears Holding 57.64 -2.33 Spartan Motors 5.35 -.02 Spartan Stores 18.45 -.04 Stryker 53.06 -1.61 TCF Financial 11.13 -.61 Walmart Stores 72.11 +2.76 Gold $1568.18 -$30.47 Silver $26.84 +$.69 Dow Jones Average 12,653.12 -217.88 Volume on NYSE 683.99M -8.01M LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on May 14, 2004, by Alvin P. Hawley and Aimee L. Hawley, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, given by them to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on May 19, 2004, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 1127874, which mortgage was modified on July 27, 2009, recorded on August 7, 2009, in Instrument Number 200908070008132, Barry County Records, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank by an Assignment of Mortgage dated January 18, 2011, recorded January 28, 2011, in Instrument Number 201101280001033, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of Forty-Nine Thousand One Hundred Sixty-Six and 74/100 Dollars ($49,166.74); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, August 9, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: Lot 4, of Block 8 of the Village of Woodland, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats on page 21 and a 2 rod strip on the East end of said Lot 4, also a part of Lot 3, of Block 8 of the Village of Woodland and part of the Southwest quarter of Section 15, Town 4 North, Range 7 West, described as: Commencing 60 feet East of the Southwest corner of Block 8 of said Plat, thence North 12 rods to the place of beginning, thence East 113 feet 3 inches, thence South 60 feet, thence West 113 feet 3 inches, thence North 60 feet to the place of beginning. Commonly Known As: 134 N. State Street, Woodland, Michigan 48897 Tax Parcel Number: 08-15-110-032-00 The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: June 27, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933 (517) 37177569184 8253 (07-05)(07-26) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Sylvia Smith, a single person, original mortgagor(s), to Homeloan USA Corporation, Mortgagee, dated May 14, 2004, and recorded on May 19, 2004 in instrument 1127867, in Barry county records, Michigan, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Six Thousand Four Hundred TwentyEight and 32/100 Dollars ($86,428.32). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 26, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That part of Lot 21 of Supervisor Chase's Addition No. 2 to the City of Hastings according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 2, described as: Commencing at the Southeast corner of Lot 20 of said Plat; thence East 86.5 Feet to the West side of Church Street if extended; thence North 135.5 Feet; thence West 86.5 Feet to a Point North of the Place of Beginning; thence South to the Place of Beginning. Excepting therefrom the South 13 Feet conveyed to the City of Hastings as part of Amy Street. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 28, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #407369F01 77569022 (06-28)(07-19) NOTICE The minutes of the meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners held July 10, 2012, are available in the County Clerk’s Office at 220 W. State St., Hastings, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or www.barrycounty.org. 77569254 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, July 12, 2012 — Page 9 Barry County famous for thoroughbred livestock, part 1 The following was published were carried in the Banner of Sept. 21, 1911. They described top breeders of livestock for the county. ***** Barry County is on the map very decidedly when it comes to thoroughbred livestock. For a number of years, the progressive breeders of this county have been giving thought and study to the perfecting of their horses and their herds and flocks of thoroughbreds until now its fame has gone abroad over the land. Instead of Barry County people going elsewhere to seek the best types, it has come to pass that people from other sections of this and other states are journeying to Barry County to find the high-class thoroughbred domestic animals they need. Perfection has not been attained, nor has the time arrived when any breeder in this section can afford to be satisfied with well-enough. But the progress made in this county has been very marked in the improvement of livestock breeding. If equal progress can be made for the next decade, Barry County will have a national reputation as the place where highclass thoroughbred stock may be obtained. The Banner could not, in its limited space, pretend to give mention of all the breeders of thoroughbred stock in Barry County, but we will mention some of the best known among them. Horses The following are owners and breeders of thoroughbred horses: J.M. Henry and A.J. Henry J.M. Henry of this city brought “Hendrix Morgan” No. 5368 from Kentucky in April 1907. He is a thoroughbred registered Morgan, and a high type of that worthy and distinctively American breed of horses. Hendrix Morgan is now in his prime, 6 years old. He has several colts 3 years old and they sell for high prices. One sold last spring for $225. Martin Rose refused $100 for his colt when 6 months old and several would decline that price for their spring colts. Hendrix Morgan’s fame as a sire is such that men come from long distances to secure his services, one coming from six miles beyond Battle Creek this season. A.J. Henry owns and J.M. Henry manages Modoc, No. 46395. Modoc is one of the rangiest Percheron sires in this section of Michigan, is very handsome, good disposition and gives excellent promise as a sire. He is 5 years old and weighs 1,830 pounds. Both Hendrix Morgan and Modoc can be seen at Henry Bros. barn in this city at any time. Warren Stadel The Belgian, the Percheron and the Hambletonian represent breeds of horses whose utility and good points are beyond question. Warren Stadel of Freeport, who has a Citizens phone from that town, has given much consideration to the breeding of horses that are adapted for the farmer to raise for his own use or to sell on the market, and has concluded that the three named above represent the types the farmer will find to be best adapted for such purposes. He owns the registered imported Belgian stallion Blenfait, No. 52.364, weight 1,920. He also owns Gabon (69380) 51,961, registered imported Percheron stallion, coming 5 years old. It goes without saying that these two types represent the best draft horses, and are profitable to use or to sell. He also owns Accidental Jr. No. 38369 registered Hambletonian, which took first prize at the Michigan State Fair at 2 years old. The Hambletonians represent a very useful type of horses, and for drivers have no superiors. They have style, action, grace and speed. Mr. Stadel will be glad to tell you about his fine trio of sires. And you can judge them by the colts they have sired. J.H. Knickerbacor Black Hawk, the Percheron stallion owned by J.H. Knickerbacor, of Rutland, is too well known to need extended mention. We can say well known, for he has captured two first premiums at Barry County fairs, and was never more popular as a sire than now. He has proven his worth as a sire, and has made good. His colts are found to be profitable property for their owners and command high prices in the market. Mr. Knickerbacor makes very reasonable service fees, and will be glad to tell you about Black Hawk and his colts. Hastings Jack Association The great demand and consequent high prices for mules led to the formation of the Hastings Jack Association and resulted in the purchase of Fernando, the imported Spanish Jack. Let no one despise the mule. He is patient, long-lived, capable of wonderful endurance, is a tower of strength when it comes to pulling a load or doing the heavy work on the farm. Fernando makes the entire season at Hastings, and is growing in popularity each year. His colts command top notch prices, and Fernando will continue in favor so long as his colts are such revenue producers as they have shown themselves to be. J.W. Silcock J.W. Silcock, address Delton, Route 1, and who has a Bell phone from Prairieville, is the owner of Incas Jr., Percheron stallion. Incas Jr. was foaled May 21, 1909, and weighed 1,600 pounds as a 2 year old. The sire as well as the grandsire of Incas Jr. have a wide reputation for their high grade colts. The mother of Incas Jr. weighed 1,650 pounds. There is no question but that Incas Jr. will make a great sire. You will be interested in Incas Jr. because he is worthy of interest. Later announcement will be made of where he will make the season next year. Mr. Silcock will be glad to show Incas Jr. to you and tell you about him. Frank Price Frank Price, of Castleton, address Nashville Route 5, with Citizens phone from Nashville, owns Camail (57,087P) a registered Percheron famed as a sire of splendid colts. Mr. Price also owns the span of Percheron mares which took first and second premiums at the International Stock Show in Chicago in 1908. TOWNSHIP OF ORANGEVILLE COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE OF ORDINANCE ADOPTION To: The residents and property owners of the Orangeville Township, Barry County, Michigan, and any other interested person. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that on July 3, 2012, at a regular meeting of the Orangeville Township Board, the Board adopted Ordinance No. 0712, Amendment to the Cemetery Ordinance. A summary of the ordinance appears below. SECTION I - AMENDMENT TO SECTION VI, SUBSECTION E The last sentence of Section VI, subsection E of the Orangeville Township Cemetery Ordinance is amended by the deletion of the following language. “No cremation interment may be placed in the same burial place as a regular interment.” SECTION II - EFFECTIVE DATE AND REPEAL OF CONFLICTING ORDINANCES - This Ordinance shall take effect upon its publication after adoption. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the full text of the ordinance will be available for inspection and may be purchased at the office of the township clerk during regular business hours of regular business days from the date of this publication. ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP Jennifer Goy, Clerk 7350 Lindsey Road Plainwell, MI 49080 269-664-4522 It will be worth your while to see this span, also Camail. He is a fine specimen of highclass Percheron. His best advertisement or his colts, which command top-notch prices in the market. ***** Cattle Peter Kunz Peter Kunz, proprietor of Sunnyside Farm, address Hastings, Route 7, Citizens phone from Hastings No. 541, five rings, believes in doing things right. He has no time for any but the methods that have proven right with the up-to-date farmers. He has studied the subject of cattle and believes the Short Horn is the practical breed for the practical farmer who seeks to make his cattle pay, not only as a market proposition, but for general farm purposes. He is a breeder of Short Horn cattle, and has calves of both sexes to sell. He will be said to show his stock and to give to any one of the benefit of his experience. W.R. Harper W.R. Harper of Middleville is putting Barry County on the map as the county where the highest type of Holstein-Friesian cattle are grown. He has a fine herd of registered Holsteins. They are not merely thoroughbred Holsteins, which would be a good deal, but they represent the best strains of that recognized best type of dairy cattle. His herd is headed by Howtje Alban, No. 49,445 and King Wolverine Segis Hengerveld, No. 63,054, two of the best bred bulls in Michigan. Mr. Harper is making Thornapple Hill Farm the Mecca of those who seek in Michigan to find the highest development of the Holsteins. He is thorough to a degree in whatever he undertakes; and he has undertaken to make his herd the equal of the best, and then make it better. You will see his cattle at the fair, and they’ll be worth your inspection. He will be pleased to correspond with you, or answer telephone calls, or have a visit from you if you are interested in Holsteins. S.G. Michaele S.G. Michaele, address Middleville, whose farm is on the county line northwest of Middleville, is a breeder of Short Horns. He has a fine herd of registered Short Horns, which he will be glad to show you, or to tell you about by correspondence if you are interested. He has his own reasons for knowing that the Short Horns are the best cattle for the farmer to raise if he desires to make profit. His reasons are based on his own successful and profitable experience in raising them. He will be glad to give you these reasons in person or by letter, and to help you to get a right start in the raising of thoroughbred Short Horns. Clarence Kinne Clarence Kinne, Hastings Route 7, with Citizens phone from Hastings, desires to help boost the dairy interests of Barry County and has brought to his farm and keeps for service at very reasonable price Pitzer DeKohl Chief, a registered Holstein bull. Mr. Kinne bought his bull from a man who has a national reputation as a breeder of Holsteins. Pitzer DeKohl Chief took first premium at the last Barry County Fair. Mr. Kinne will be glad to give you further information about him by letter or phone or if you will see him in person. Walnut Grove Stock Farm Walnut Grove Stock Farm is located on secs. 20 and 21, Carlton Township. Messer Bros. are proprietors and William Spath is the manager. At this farm are bred registered Short Horn Durham cattle that represent the highest strains of the Short Horn Breed. They keep a registered polled Durham bull for service. They also breed Percheron horses. This is one of the farms that is adding to the reputation of Barry County as the home of thoroughbred livestock. You can reach Walnut Grove Stock Farm by Citizens phone from Hastings or by addressing Wm. Spath, Hastings, Route 3. Craig Bros. Craig Bros., Geo. B. and W.R. Craig, whose farm is just east of the city, and who have the Citizens phone, are breeders of Jersey cattle – not the grades, but the high- class thoroughbred Jerseys, and have a fine herd of them. They are in the business for profit, and are able to show from their own experience that it pays to raise Jerseys, and pays handsomely. Nothing that we can say will add to the reputation of the Jersey as a dairy animal. But if you would like to know from someone near home just what they can show by actual experience with this breed, see Craig Bros. Judge R. Barnum Judge R. Barnum is a thrifty Woodland farmer who follows farming because he likes the business and makes it pay. He owns and will exhibit at the fair Hengerveld, the noted registered Holstein bull, in whose veins is the richest Holstein blood. See him at the fair, and let Mr. Barnum tell you about him. He will also show two registered Percheron makes, and one 2-year-old and one yearling registered Percheron colt. Mr. Barnum will be glad to tell you about his stock, or you can write him, at Coats Grove, RFD. No. 1. Sherman Endsley Sherman Endsley, Castleton section 18, address Coats Grove, Route 1, and who has a Citizens phone from Hastings, is a breeder of thoroughbred Short Horn cattle. He has been a breeder of them for years. When you know Mr. Endsley, you will understand that when he follows any given line of activity on his farm, he does so for the very best of reasons and especially because it pays him well to do so. That’s why he exclusively raises and is a breeder of thoroughbred Short Horn cattle. His practical experience for years shows them to be the practical breed for the farmer. He has a fine herd of registered Short Horns and has several nice Short Horn bulls to sell. (To be continued) LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Clifton W. Blauvelt and Patricia A. Blauvelt, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Option One Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated November 6, 2006, and recorded on November 13, 2006 in instrument 1172659, and assigned by said Mortgagee to H & R Block Bank, a Federal Savings Bank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thousand Eight Hundred Eighty and 36/100 Dollars ($100,880.36). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 9, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Part of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 17, Town 2 North, Range 10 West, Orangeville Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Beginning at a point 332 feet East of the Southwest corner of said Section; thence East 178 feet; thence North 320 feet; thence West 178 feet; thence South 320 feet to the point of beginning The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #405929F01 77569242 (07-12)(08-02) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Gary W. Ellis and Nancy A. Ellis, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 1, 2008, and recorded on April 17, 2008 in instrument 200804170004189, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Two Thousand Five Hundred Ninety-Seven and 89/100 Dollars ($102,597.89). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 43, 44 and 45 of Steven's Wooded Acres, Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, according to the Plat thereof recorded in Liber 4 of Plats, Page 31 of Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 21, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #403975F01 77568746 (06-21)(07-12) Public Land Auction City of Hastings PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given that a public Accuracy Test will be conducted on Friday, July 20, 2012 at 9:00 AM in the office of the Hastings City Clerk, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan, for the purpose of testing the tabulating equipment and programs, which will be used to tabulate the voted ballots for the August 7, 2012, Primary Election. Voter assist terminals used to help voters mark their ballots will also be tested. The city will provide necessary reasonable aids and services upon five days notice to the Clerk of the City of Hastings (telephone number 269-945-2468 or TDD call relay services 1-800-649-3777). Thomas Emery City Clerk 77569351 PUBLIC NOTICE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Prairieville Township July Board of Review will convene at the Township Office located at 10115 S. Norris Rd., Delton, MI on July 17, 2011 at 1:00 pm. The purpose of the meeting is to correct any clerical error or mutual mistake of fact relative to the 2011 & 2012 Assessment Roll. The July Board of Review will also have authority to act upon Qualified Agricultural, Primary Residence Exemptions and Poverty Exemption Affidavits. If you have an item for the Board of Review agenda please contact the assessor. Kevin Harris Prairieville Township Assessor 269-663-3057 Prairieville Township Board of Review meetings are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, sex or disability. Posted June 21, 2012 at 5:00 pm 77569370 The following County Treasurers will be offering tax-reverted real estate at public Auction on August 1st, 2012: Barry & Ionia. The Auction will be held at The Barry County Commission on Aging, 320 West Woodlawn, Hastings, MI 49058. Registration will begin at 11:00am, Auction will begin at 12:00pm. Online bidding will be available via www.tax-sale.info. For more information or for a list of the properties being sold, visit our website at www.tax-sale.info or call 1-800-259-7470. Sale listings are also available at your local County Treasurers Office. 77568876 PUBLIC NOTICE On 5/31/2012, an application for renewal of license of FM translator station W225BA was tendered for filing with the Federal Communications Commission. The station is licensed to WORLD RADIO LINK, INC. to serve the area of HASTINGS, MI. W225BA operates on frequency 92.9 with 0.01 kilowatts of power from a transmitter located at 42.650833 N, 85.286389 W. W225BA rebroadcasts station WVGR 104.1 GRAND RAPIDS, MI. Individuals who wish to advise the FCC of facts relating to our renewal application and to whether this station was operated in the public interest should file comments and petitions with the FCC by 9/1/2012. 77569347 NOTICE TO BIDDERS BARRY COUNTY ROAD COMMISSION Sealed proposals will be received at the office of the Barry County Road Commission, 1725 West M-43 Highway, P.O. Box 158, Hastings, MI 49058, until 10:00 A.M., Tuesday, July 17, 2012 for the following items. Specifications and additional information may be obtained at the Road Commission Office at the above address or at our web site at barrycrc.org. Energy Efficient Heating The Board reserves the right to reject any or all proposals or to waive irregularities in the best interest of the Commission. BOARD OF COUNTY ROAD COMMISSIONERS OF THE COUNTY OF BARRY Frank M. Fiala, Chairman D. David Dykstra, Member David D. Solmes, Member 77569218 �Page 10 — Thursday, July 12, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Nancy Lucas, single and Hans Terrell, single joint tenants with full rights of survivorship, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated September 21, 2005, and recorded on September 29, 2005 in instrument 1153583, and assigned by said Mortgagee to CitiMortgage, Inc. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirteen Thousand Six Hundred Twenty-Seven and 42/100 Dollars ($113,627.42). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The part of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 16, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, described as: Commencing at the West 1/4 corner of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East, 376.70 feet along the West line of the Southwest 1/4 of said Section to a point North 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West 940.00 feet the from Southwest corner of the Northwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of said Section; thence South 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East 600.00 feet; thence South 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East 300.00 feet; thence North 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West 600.00 feet; thence North 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West 300.00 feet along the West line of the Southwest 1/4 of said Section to the place of beginning. he redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 21, 2012 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #404038F01 77568855 (06-21)(07-12) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Forrest J. Bagley Jr, and Kimberly L. Bagley, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Plus of America Corporation, Mortgagee, dated June 11, 2001, and recorded on June 19, 2001 in instrument 1061708, and assigned by mesne assignments to CitiMortgage, Inc. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twelve Thousand Five Hundred Six and 56/100 Dollars ($112,506.56). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 26, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land in the Northeast fractional 1/4 of Section 6, Town 1 North, Range 10 West, Prairieville Township, Barry County, Michigan, and is more particularly described as follows: Commencing at the Northeast corner of Section 6, Town 1 North, Range 10 West; thence South 2 degrees 11 minutes 53 seconds East along the East line of said Section, 132.50 feet to the place of beginning of this description; thence continuing South 2 degrees 11 minutes 53 seconds East along said line, 103.71 feet; thence South 72 degrees 13 minutes 35 seconds West, a distance of 120.78 feet; thence North 2 degrees 11 minutes 53 West parallel with the said East line, a distance of 106.75 feet to the Southerly Right-of-Way of Pine Lake Road, thence along a curve to the right with a radius of 2864.79 feet, subtended by a chord of North 73 degrees 37 minutes 36 seconds East, a distance of 120.00 feet and an arc of 102.01 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 28, 2012 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #398539F01 77569010 (06-28)(07-19) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on May 13, 2005, by Kari L. Geller (a/k/a Kari L. Fisher), a single woman, as Mortgagor, given by her to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on May 16, 2005, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 1146597, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank on March 16, 2012, recorded on March 20, 2012, in Instrument Number 201203200002836, Barry County Records, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of Thirty-Nine Thousand Five Hundred Ten and 36/100 Dollars ($39,510.36); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, August 9, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF JOHNSTOWN, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: The South 10 feet of Lot 6 and the North 90 feet of Lot 7 of the Plat of Fernwood, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 4 of Plats on Page 29, being also described as: Commencing on Winana Drive at the corner common to Lots 6 and 7 of the Plat of Fernwood; thence North 14 degrees 9 minutes East on the Lot line a distance of 10 feet; thence North 89 degrees 40 minutes West parallel with the lot line 120 feet; thence South 14 degrees 9 minutes West on the lot line 100 feet; thence South 89 degrees 40 minutes East parallel with the lot line 120 feet; thence North 14 degrees 9 minutes East 90 feet on the lot line to the place of beginning. Commonly known as: 12076 Winans Drive, Dowling, Michigan 49050-8814 Parcel Number: 0809-070-005-00 The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: June 27, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, 77569228 MI 48933 (517) 371-8253 (07-05)(07-26) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Patrick W. Pribe, An unmarried man, original mortgagor(s), to Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Mortgagee, dated September 24, 2004, and recorded on October 18, 2004 in instrument 1135674, and assigned by said Mortgagee to US Bank National Association, as Trustee for Citigroup Mortgage Loan Trust Inc., Asset-Backed Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2005-WF1 as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Nine Thousand Three Hundred Thirty-Two and 54/100 Dollars ($109,332.54). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 26, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land in the Southwest 1/4 of section 21, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, described as: Beginning at a point on the West line of Section 21 which lies due North 1087.50 feet from the Southwest corner of said Section 21; thence due North 150 feet; thence South 89 degrees 50 minutes East 160 feet; thence due South 150 feet; thence North 89 degrees 50 minutes West 160 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 28, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #402872F01 77569005 (06-28)(07-19) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Robert A Caldwell and Shawn M Caldwell, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Broadmoor Financial Services, Inc., Mortgagee, dated May 28, 2002, and recorded on June 4, 2002 in instrument 1081605, and assigned by mesne assignments to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Seven Thousand Six Hundred Ninety-Six and 24/100 Dollars ($87,696.24). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 9, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the center of Section 6, Town 2 North, Range 7 West; thence East 627 feet; thence South 66 feet; thence South 37 degrees West 300 feet; thence South 30 degrees 28 minutes West 381 feet; thence South 22 degrees 12 minutes West 40 feet; thence North 86 degrees 7 minutes West 297.3 feet to the center of Morgan Road; thence follow the center of Morgan Road North 28 degrees 59 minutes East 118 feet; thence North 01 degrees 21 minutes East 536.1 feet to the place of beginning, except the North 412 feet thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #405283F01 77569236 (07-12)(08-02) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Robert W. Bishop, an unmarried man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Countrywide Home Loans, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 27, 2003 and recorded September 23, 2003 in Instrument Number 1113915, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Bank of America N.A. successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP F/K/A/ Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, LP by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Four Thousand One Hundred Twelve and 1/100 Dollars ($74,112.01) including interest at 5.625% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 07/19/2012 Said premises are located in the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 2 of R.I. Hendershott Addition, excepting the South 3 feet, First Addition to the City of Hastings, Formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded Plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: June 21, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 617.8191 77568902 (06-21)(07-12) FORECLOSURE NOTICE RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES, P.C. MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. Mortgage Sale - Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by MIKE KENYON, HUSBAND AND WIFE AS JOINT TENANTS, AND LINDA KENYON, HUSBAND AND WIFE, AS JOINT TENANTS to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. acting solely as a nominee for America`s Wholesale Lender, Mortgagee, dated November 15, 2005, and recorded on November 23, 2005, as Document Number: 1156700, Barry County Records, said mortgage was assigned to THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-17 by an Assignment of Mortgage dated October 07, 2011 and recorded October 24, 2011 by Document Number: 201110240009977, , on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Fifty-Five Thousand Nine Hundred Eighty-Five and 32/100 ($55,985.32) including interest at the rate of 4.55000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the Circuit Court in said Barry County, where the premises to be sold or some part of them are situated, at 01:00 PM on August 9, 2012 Said premises are situated in the Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 53 of O.A. Phillips Addition to Village of Nashville, County of Barry, State of Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof. Commonly known as: 315 CLEVELAND If the property is eventually sold at foreclosure sale, the redemption period will be 6.00 months from the date of sale unless the property is abandoned or used for agricultural purposes. If the property is determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 and/or 600.3241a, the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of sale, or 15 days after statutory notice, whichever is later. If the property is presumed to be used for agricultural purposes prior to the date of the foreclosure sale pursuant to MCL 600.3240, the redemption period is 1 year. Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages are, if any, limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: July 12, 2012 Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-17 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302, (248) 335-9200 Case No. 12MI02107-1 77569389 (07-12)(08-02) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Timothy Joppie, unmarried man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for Quicken Loans Inc. its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated August 8, 2008, and recorded on August 11, 2008 in instrument 20080811-0008163, in Barry county records, Michigan, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Seventy-Seven Thousand Two Hundred Sixty-Eight and 79/100 Dollars ($177,268.79). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 2, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Baltimore, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The West 43 Acres of the North fractional 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 2, Town 2 North, Range 8 West, Baltimore Township, Barry County, Michigan Except That part of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 2, Town 2 North, Range 8 West, Baltimore Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner of said Section; thence North 89 degrees 58 minutes 00 seconds East 163.87 feet along the North line of said Northwest 1/4 to the place of beginning; thence continuing North 89 degrees 58 minutes 00 seconds East 1019.73 feet along said North line to the East line of the West 43 Acres of the North fractional 1/2 of said Northwest 1/4; thence South 00 degrees 38 minutes 33 seconds East 1027.04 feet along said East line; thence South 89 degrees 58 minutes 00 seconds West 886.11 feet parallel with said North line to the Centerline of Davidson Road; thence North 03 degrees 58 minutes 18 seconds West 428.66 feet along said Centerline; thence North 07 degrees 53 minutes 18 seconds West 203.52 feet along said Centerline; thence North 08 degrees 46 minutes 47 seconds West 268.16 feet along said Centerline; thence North 19 degrees 07 minutes 00 seconds West 140.40 feet along said Centerline to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #403574F01 77569167 (07-05)(07-26) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Raymond C Chapin, married and Lisa Chapin, to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, successor by merger to Chase Home Finance LLC, successor by merger to Chase Manhattan Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated May 22, 2003 and recorded June 2, 2003 in Instrument Number 1105510, Barry County Records, Michigan. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Six Thousand Three Hundred Nineteen and 4/100 Dollars ($96,319.04) including interest at 4.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 08/02/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The land referred to in this commitment is located in the Village of Middleville, Barry County, State of Michigan, and is described as follows: Lot 20, Middleville Downs Addition Number 1, according to the recorded Plat thereof in Liber 5 of Plats, on Page 4. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: July 5, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 682.2405 77569221 (07-05)(07-26) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Josh Spurr and Jessica Spurr, Husband and Wife, to Fifth Third Mortgage - MI, LLC, Mortgagee, dated September 27, 2007 and recorded October 2, 2007 in Instrument Number 20071002-0002661, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Fifth Third Mortgage Company by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Eight Thousand Thirty-Six and 90/100 Dollars ($128,036.90) including interest at 6.75% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 08/02/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land located in the Township of Irving, Barry County, State of Michigan, and described as follows: A parcel of land in the Northeast 1/4 of section 32, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, described as: commencing at the North 1/4 post of said section 32; thence East on the center of Grange Road 389 feet for the place of beginning; thence East on the center line of said road 125 feet; thence South 734 feet; thence West 125 feet; thence North 734 feet to the place of beginning The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: July 5, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 200.4996 77569196 (07-05)(07-26) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, July 12, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTIFY US AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by Tammy Rose Dull And Steven John Paul Claypool, A single woman and A single man , Mortgagors, to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., Mortgagee, dated the 9th day of June, 2010 and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, for The County of Barry and State of Michigan, on the 22nd day of June, 2010 in Liber INSTRUMENT # 201006220006032 of Barry County Records, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, the sum of One Hundred Three Thousand Two Hundred Thirty Seven And 31/100 ($103237.31), and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on the 9th day of August, 2012 at 1:00 PM o’clock Local Time, said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI (that being the building where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held), of the premises described in said mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due, as aforesaid on said mortgage, with interest thereon at 5.5% per annum and all legal costs, charges, and expenses, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sum or sums which may be paid by the undersigned, necessary to protect its interest in the premises. Which said premises are described as follows: All that certain piece or parcel of land, including any and all structures, and homes, manufactured or otherwise, located thereon, situated in the Township of Rutland, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and described as follows, to wit: LOT 344 AND THE NORTHWEST 1/2 OF LOT 343 OF ALGONQUIN LAKE PROPERTIES UNIT NO. 2 ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF IN LIBER 2 ON PAGE 63 AND THE NORTHWESTERLY 1/2 OF LOT 343 BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS COMMENCING AT THE CORNER COMMON TO LOTS 343 AND 344 OF OTTAWA TRAIL; THENCE SOUTHEASTERLY ON THE LINE OF LOT 343, A DISTANCE OF 25 FEET; THENCE SOUTHWESTERLY PARALLELL TO THE LINE OF LOTS 344 AND 343 TO THE LOT LINE; THENCE NORTHWESTERLY ALONG THE LINE OF LOT 343 AND 344, 125.8 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. During the six (6) months immediately following the sale, the property may be redeemed, except that in the event that the property is determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241a, the property may be redeemed during 30 days immediately following the sale. Pursuant to MCLA 600.3278, the mortgagor(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 7/12/2012 JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Mortgagee FABRIZIO & BROOK, P.C. Attorney for JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. 888 W. Big Beaver, Suite 800 Troy, Ml 48084 248-362-2600 CHASE FARM GNMA DULL 77569379 (07-12)(08-02) FORECLOSURE NOTICE RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES, P.C. MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. Mortgage Sale - Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by Anthony Moore a single man to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., acting solely as nominee for Advantage Lending Corp., Mortgagee, dated October 5, 2009, and recorded on October 7, 2009, as Document Number: 200910130010098, Barry County Records, said mortgage was assigned to Bank of America, N.A. as successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP fka Counrtywide Home Loans Servicing, LP by an Assignment of Mortgage dated September 29, 2011 and recorded October 13, 2011 by Document Number: 201110130009601, , on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Two Thousand Two Hundred Ten and 40/100 ($72,210.40) including interest at the rate of 5.75000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the Circuit Court in said Barry County, where the premises to be sold or some part of them are situated, at 01:00 PM on August 9, 2012 Said premises are situated in the Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: LOT NUMBER 48 OF THE LAPHAMS AIRPORT LOTS, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF, AS RECORDED IN LIBER 3 OF PLATS ON PAGE 100, AND LOT 49 OF THE LAPHAMS AIRPORT LOTS NUMBER 2, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF, AS RECORDED IN LIBER 5 OF PLATS, ON PAGE 87. Commonly known as: 6009 MARSH RD If the property is eventually sold at foreclosure sale, the redemption period will be 6.00 months from the date of sale unless the property is abandoned or used for agricultural purposes. If the property is determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 and/or 600.3241a, the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of sale, or 15 days after statutory notice, whichever is later. If the property is presumed to be used for agricultural purposes prior to the date of the foreclosure sale pursuant to MCL 600.3240, the redemption period is 1 year. Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages are, if any, limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: July 12, 2012 Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Bank of America, N.A. as successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP fka Counrtywide Home Loans Servicing, LP 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302, (248) 335-9200 Case No. 77569384 12MI01744-1 (07-12)(08-02) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Diana Marie Peters, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 10, 2003, and recorded on January 22, 2003 in instrument 1096042, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Flagstar Bank, FSB as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Fifty-One Thousand Seven Hundred Twelve and 30/100 Dollars ($51,712.30). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 69, Lynden Johncock Plat #1, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 93. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 21, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #402486F01 77568865 (06-21)(07-12) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF A MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on February 26, 2004, by Ronald J. Pelli and Patricia A. Pelli, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, given by them to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on March 3, 2004, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 1123097, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank on May 22, 2012, recorded on May 24, 2012, in Instrument Number 2012-000510, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of Eighty-Four Thousand Six Hundred Sixty-Eight and 31/100 Dollars ($84,668.31); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, August 9, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: A Parcel of Land in the Northeast quarter of Section 33, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, described as: Commencing at the North quarter corner of said Section 33; Thence South 89 degrees 19 minutes 49 seconds East 1321.29 feet along the North line of said Section 33; Thence South 00 degrees 57 minutes 47 seconds West 673.00 feet along the East line of the West half of the Northeast quarter of said Section 33 to the true point of beginning; Thence South 00 degrees 57 minutes 47 seconds West 220.00 feet along said East line; Thence North 89 degrees 02 minutes 13 seconds West 231.00 feet; Thence North 00 degrees 57 minutes 47 seconds East 220.00 feet; Thence South 89 degrees 02 minutes 13 seconds East 231.00 feet to the point of beginning. Together with and subject to a private easement appurtenant thereto for ingress, egress, and public utility purposes for Butterfly Lane, described separately. Description of Butterfly Lane: A strip of land in the Northeast quarter of Section 33, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, 66 feet wide, 33 feet each side of a centerline described as: Commencing at the North quarter corner of said Section 33; Thence South 89 degrees 19 minutes 49 seconds East, 1321.29 feet along the North line of said Section 33; Thence South 00 degrees 57 minutes 47 seconds West 893.00 feet along the East line of the West half of the Northeast quarter of said Section 33; Thence North 89 degrees 02 minutes 57 seconds West 231.00 feet to the true point of beginning of said centerline; Thence North 00 degrees 57 minutes 47 seconds East 440.00 feet; Thence Northerly 110.17 feet along the arc of a curve to the left, the radius of which is 549.95, the central angle of which is 11 degrees 28 minutes 41 seconds and the chord of which bears North 04 degrees 46 minutes 34 seconds West 109.99 feet; Thence continuing Northerly 110.17 feet along the arc of a curve to the right, the radius of which is 549.95 feet, the central angle of which is 11 degrees 28 minutes 41 seconds and chord of which bears North 04 degrees 46 minutes 34 seconds West 109.99 feet; Thence North 00 degrees 57 minutes 47 seconds East 231.00 feet to the North line of said Section and the end of said centerline. Commonly known as: 2872 Butterfly Lane, Middleville, Michigan 49333 Parcel Number: 08008-033-020-13 Includes a 1994 Commodore, Serial #GS04287AB The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: June 26, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933 (517) 371-8253 (07-05)(07-26) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by David Irwin, unmarried, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated November 27, 2009, and recorded on December 16, 2009 in instrument 200912160012078, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Forty-One Thousand Seven Hundred Sixty and 88/100 Dollars ($141,760.88). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 22, Fiarview Estates No. 1, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats, Page The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 21, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #403949F01 77568860 (06-21)(07-12) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Daniel J. Kellogg and Julie A. Kellogg Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 25, 2006, and recorded on September 15, 2006 in instrument 1170072, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Seventeen Thousand Five Hundred Ninety-Eight and 47/100 Dollars ($217,598.47). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the southeast corner of West 20 acres of the East 30 acres of the South 1/2 of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 26, Town 3 North, Range 7 West, village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, for a place of beginning; thence West 245.5 feet; thence North parallel with the East line of said West 20 acres of said East 30 acres 574 feet; thence West 414.5 feet, more or less, to the West line of said West 20 acres of said East 30 acres; thence North 746 feet, more of less, to the North line of the South 1/2 of the Southeast 1/4 of said Section 26; thence East 660 feet, more or less, to the East line of said West 20 acres of said East 30 acres; thence South along said East line 1320 feet, more or less, to the place of beginning. Subject to a roadway over the Southerly 33 feet thereof. Also that part of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 26, Town 3 North, Range 7 West, Castleton Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as; Commencing at the Southeast corner of said Section 26 and running West along the South line of said Section 26, a distance of 574.14 feet to a point lying 245.50 feet West of the Southeast corner of the West 20 acres of the East 30 acres of the South 1/2 of said Southeast 1/4; thence run North 00 01 minutes 09 seconds East, parallel with the East line of said West 20 acres, a distance of 374.00 feet to the point of beginning of the following described parcel of land; thence continuing North 00 01 minutes 09 seconds East, parallel with the said East line of the West 20 acres a distance of 200.00 feet; thence run West Parallel with the said South Section line a distance of 50.00 feet; thence run South 00 01 minutes 09 seconds West parallel with the said East line of the West 20 acres a distance of 200.00 feet; thence run East parallel with the said South Section line a distance of 50.00 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 21, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #398034F01 77568818 (06-21)(07-12) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Michael Batt, a single man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Amera Mortgage Corporation its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated January 12, 2011, and recorded on March 15, 2011 in instrument 201103150002680, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Nine Thousand Three Hundred Thirty-One and 31/100 Dollars ($89,331.31). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 2, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 93 of Middleville Downs Addition No. 5, Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, on Page 43, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #387348F01 77569063 (07-05)(07-26) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Keith McNett & Lisa McNett, Husband and Wife to Ameriquest Mortgage Company, Mortgagee, dated July 7, 2004 and recorded August 5, 2004 in Instrument # 1131965 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned through mesne assignments to:Household Finance Corporation III, by assignment dated May 1, 2012 and recorded May 2, 2012 in Instrument # 201205020005138 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fifty-One Thousand Seven Hundred Eleven Dollars and Sixteen Cents ($151,711.16) including interest 8.15% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on July 19, 2012 Said premises are situated in City of Delton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the West one-quarter post of Section 28, Town 2 North, Range 9 West; thence South 89 degrees 56 minutes 14 seconds East 1214.40 feet along the East and West one-quarter line of said Section 28; thence South 02 degrees 54 minutes 51 seconds West 233.04 feet; thence South 89 degrees 56 minutes 14 seconds East 220.00 feet to the true point of beginning; thence South 89 degrees 56 minutes 14 seconds East 373.08 feet; thence South 52 degrees 20 minutes 58 seconds West 364.29 feet; thence North 60 degrees 26 minutes 18 seconds West 35.79; thence North 14 degrees 36 minutes 45 seconds West 212.14 feet to the point of beginning. Together with a private easement for ingress and egress and public utility purposes, 66 feet wide, described as: Beginning at a point on the East and West onequarter line of Section 28, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, distant South 89 degrees 56 minutes 14 seconds East 2094.40 feet from the West one-quarter post of said section; thence South 89 degrees 56 minutes 14 seconds East 66.08 feet along said one-quarter line; thence South 02 degrees 54 minutes 51 seconds West 881.91 feet; thence North 75 degrees 47 minutes 45 seconds West 67.30 feet; thence North 02 degrees 54 minutes 51 seconds East 865.45 feet to the point of beginning. Also, together with and subject to a private easement for ingress, egress, and public utility purposes, 66 feet wide described as: Commencing at the West onequarter post of Section 20, Town 2 North, Range 9 West; thence South 89 degrees 56 minutes 14 seconds East 2094.40 feet along the East and West one-quarter line of said Section 28; thence South 02 degrees 54 minutes 51 seconds West 233.04 feet to the true point of beginning; thence South 02 degrees 54 minutes 51 seconds West 66.08 feet; thence North 89 degrees 56 minutes 14 seconds West 314.09 feet; thence South 52 degrees 20 minutes 58 seconds West 283.59 feet; thence South 06 degrees 46 minutes 20 seconds West 206.14 feet; thence North 83 degrees 13 minutes 40 seconds West 66.00 feet; thence North 06 degrees 46 minutes 20 seconds East, 233.86 feet; thence North 52 degrees 20 minutes 58 seconds East 335.48 feet; thence South 89 degrees 56 minutes 14 seconds East 340.87 feet to the point of beginning. Commonly known as 4727 Walldorff Rd, Delton MI 49046 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 6/21/2012 Household Finance Corporation III, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File 77568912 No: 12-62955 (06-21)(07-12) NOTICE TO BORROWER PURSUANT TO MCL 600.3205a The undersigned is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Kimberly S. Marlin TO: Timothy K. Marlin 2710 Pine Trail Drive 2710 Pine Trail Drive Middleville, MI 49333 Middleville, MI 49333 Property Address: 2710 Pine Trail Drive Middleville, MI 49333 You have the right to request a meeting with your Mortgage Holder, Lake Michigan Credit Union. The person to contact that has authority to make an agreement with you for mortgage loan modification is Joseph Woodhams (616) 234-6342, who may also be contacted at P.O. Box 2848, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49501-2848, email Joseph.Woodhams@ lmcu.org. You may contact a housing counselor by visiting the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) website (www.michigan.gov/mshda) or by calling MSHDA at (517) 373-8370, TTY # 1-800-3824568. If you request a meeting with the Designated Person, foreclosure will not start until ninety (90) days after the date notice is mailed to you. If you and the Designated Person reach an agreement to modify the mortgage loan, the mortgage will not be foreclosed if you abide by the terms of the agreement. You have the right to contact an attorney. The telephone number for the State Bar of Michigan's Lawyer Referral Service is (800) 968-0738. If you and the Designated Person have previously agreed to modify the mortgage loan under MCL 600.3205b, these provisions do not apply unless you have complied with terms of the mortgage loan, as modified, for one (1) year after the date of such modification. Dated: July 10, 2012 Lake Michigan Credit Union MORTGAGE HOLDER THIS INSTRUMENT PREPARED BY: Charles J. Hiemstra (P-24332) Attorney for Mortgage Holder 125 Ottawa Ave., NW, Suite 310 Grand Rapids, MI 49503 (616) 235-3100 77569372 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Timothy Voshell, a married man and Kimberly A Voshell, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 25, 2006, and recorded on January 31, 2006 in instrument 1159539, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-One Thousand Four Hundred Seventy-Four and 86/100 Dollars ($161,474.86). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Beginning at a point on the East-West 1/4 line of Section 28, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, distant North 89 degrees 34 minutes 20 seconds West 2383.60 feet from the East 1/4 corner of said Section 28; thence South 29 degrees 58 minutes 54 seconds East 416.11 feet; thence South 17 degrees 31 minutes 37 seconds East 34.09 feet; thence South 57 degrees 55 minutes 34 seconds West 502.99 feet to the South line of the North 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of said Section 28; thence North 89 degrees 40 minutes 28 seconds West 61.59 feet along said South line to the North-South 1/4 line of said Section 28; thence North 00 degrees 29 minutes 05 seconds East 661.68 feet to the center 1/4 corner of said Section 28; thence South 89 degrees 34 minutes 20 seconds East 284.00 feet along said East-West 1/4 line to the point of beginning. Together with and subject to a private Easement for ingress, egress and public utility purposes to be used in common with others, 66 feet wide; 33 feet East side of a centerline described as: Commencing at a point on the North-South 1/4 line of Section 28, Town 3 North, Range 8 West distant North 00 degrees 29 minutes 05 seconds East 1985.04 feet from the South 1/4 corner of said Section 28; thence South 89 degrees 40 minutes 28 seconds East 61.59 feet along the South line of the North 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of said Section 28 to the true point of beginning of said described centerline; thence North 57 degrees 55 minutes 34 seconds East 502.99 feet; thence North 87 degrees 01 minutes 05 seconds East 394.12 feet; thence South 69 degrees 19 minutes 18 seconds East 477.09 feet to the East line of the NOrth 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of said Section 28, and the end of said described centerline. The side lines of said Easement to be lengthened or shortened as appropriate to terminate at the South line and at the East line of the North 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of said Section 28. Also, the right of ingress and egress to and from Star School Road to the above described property across that portion of land described as: Commencing 660 feet South of the Northwest corner of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 28, Town 3 North, Range 8 West; thence East 660 feet; thence South 33 feet; thence East 3,300 feet; thence North 33 feet; thence West 3,267 feet; thence North 33 feet; thence West 693 feet; thence South 33 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 21, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #404164F01 (06-21)(07-12) 77568740 �Page 12 — Thursday, July 12, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-26126-DE Estate of IVAN DANIEL SUNTKEN. Date of birth: 11/11/1938. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, IVAN DANIEL SUNTKEN, died 02/06/2011. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to LYDIA MARIE COBB, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 WEST COURT STREET, SUITE 302, HASTINGS, MI 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 07/05/2012 KATHLEEN HENGESBACH P-37427 10561 WEST SAINT JOE HWY. VERMONTVILLE, MI 49096 (517) 566-8761 LYDIA MARIE COBB 7304 EAST CARLTON CENTER ROAD WOODLAND, MI 48897 77569340 (517) 898-6847 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Cora Lee Greenburg, an unmarried woman, original mortgagor(s), to World Savings Bank, FSB, Mortgagee, dated July 30, 2002, and recorded on August 13, 2007 in instrument 1085507, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Thirty-Six Thousand Ninety-Nine and 99/100 Dollars ($236,099.99). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 2, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 23, Supervisor's Plat of Long Point, as recorded in Liber 2 of Page 50, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #367213F02 77569161 (07-05)(07-26) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Michael Pifer, a single man and Jacqulyn Tompkins, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, Mortgagee, dated June 18, 2007, and recorded on June 20, 2007 in instrument 1181982, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-One Thousand Five Hundred Ninety-Four and 59/100 Dollars ($131,594.59). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 9, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 30 of Sandy Knolls Plat No. 2 according to the Plat thereof recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 94 of Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #405666F01 (07-12)(08-02) 77569357 STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Trust In the Matter of Donald E. Nelson and Rosa B. Nelson Trust u/t/a dated November 21, 2005 Date of Birth: April 15, 1924 – Rosa B. Nelson TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Rosa B. Nelson, surviving Trustee, who lived at 1296 Lynn Avenue, Middleville, Michigan died June 27, 2012 leaving the above Trust entitled "Donald E. Nelson and Rosa B. Nelson Trust" in full force and effect. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the decedent or against the Trust will be forever barred unless presented to Casandra L. Farley within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. July 10, 2012 Stephanie S. Fekkes P43549 150 W. Court Street Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 945-1921 Casandra L. Farley 1859 NE Summerwind Drive Mountain Home, ID 83647 77569368 THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. MORTGAGE SALE--Default has been made in the conditions of a Mortgage made by CHRISTINE R. VANKAMPEN, a single woman, Mortgagor, to NPB MORTGAGE, LLC, Mortgagee, dated June 10, 2002, and recorded June 20, 2002, Instrument Number 1082541, of Barry County Records, Michigan, which mortgage was assigned by mesne assignments to First National Acceptance Company, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due as of the date of this notice $11,946.71, including interest at 11.95% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to the statutes of the State of Michigan, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public auction to the highest bidder, on Thursday, August 9, 2012, at 1 o’clock in the afternoon, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, Michigan. Said premises are situated in the Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Beginning 310.57 feet North of the NW corner of Lot 9 of Sam Bravata Plat; thence West 170.96 feet; thence North 00 degrees 33’ West 127.25 feet along the West line of the property described in the deed recorded in Liber 244, Page 407; thence South 67 degrees 39’ East (previously described as South 65 degrees 55’ East) 168 feet; thence South 70 degrees 06’47” East (previously described as South 68 degrees 23 minutes East) 17.86 feet; thence South 57.30 feet to the place of beginning.; c/k/a 4726 Princess Dr., Shelbyville, MI 49344 The redemption period shall be six months from the date of the sale, unless the premises are determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days. Please be advised that if the mortgaged property is sold at a foreclosure sale by advertisement, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 you will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale, or to the mortgage holder, for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 12, 2012 LeVasseur Dyer & Associates, PC Attorneys for Mortgagee P.O. Box 721400 Berkley, 77569342 MI 48072 (248) 586-1200 (07-12)(08-02) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Edward N. Sabo, a married man and Lisa J. Sabo, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Exchange Financial Corporation, Mortgagee, dated January 12, 2001, and recorded on January 17, 2001 in instrument 1053974, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Chase Manhattan Mortgage Corporation as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Eight Thousand Six Hundred NinetySeven and 57/100 Dollars ($98,697.57). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 2, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 11, 12 and 13 of Eastwood Acres, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats on Page 7. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #403605F01 77560957 (07-05)(07-26) STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY PUBLICATION OF NOTICE OF HEARING FILE NO. 12-26117-DE In the matter of IMOGENE M. ROOT TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS including:* DEBORAH LYNN JONES and THOMAS WAYNE JONES, JR. whose address(es) are unknown and whose interest in the matter may be barred or affected by the following: TAKE NOTICE: A hearing will be held on July 27, 2012 at 9:00 a.m. at 206 WEST COURT, SUITE 302, HASTINGS, MI 49058 before Judge WILLIAM M. DOHERTY P4190 for the following purpose: HEARING ON THE PETITION FOR PROBATE FILED BY JOAN TAGGART July 9, 2012 DAVID H. TRIPP P29290 206 SOUTH BROADWAY HASTINGS, MI 49058 (269) 945-9585 JOAN TAGGART 2767 WING ROAD HASTINGS, MI 49058 (269) 948-9037 77569366 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Thomas F. Russell and Linda L. Russell Husband and Wife., original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 25, 2005, and recorded on August 12, 2005 in instrument 1151040, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Five Thousand Five Hundred Forty-One and 40/100 Dollars ($205,541.40). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 19, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 19 and the South 1/2 of Lot 18 of Hughes Park, according to the recorded plat thereof in Liber 2 of Plats, Page 57. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 21, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #404299F01 77568765 (06-21)(07-12) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE WILLIAM AZKOUL P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. Default having been made in the conditions of a real estate mortgage made by Jeremy T. Moore, an unmarried man, of 2029 Rowe, NE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49505 and NPB Mortgage, LLC, a Michigan limited liability company, whose address is 3333 Deposit Drive, NE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49546, dated April 10, 2007 and recorded on April 11, 2001 in Instrument No. 1179091 of the Barry County Register of Deeds, which mortgage has been assigned to Northpointe Bank, a Michigan banking corporation, whose address is 3333 Deposit Drive, NE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49546, by virtue of an Assignment of Mortgage dated June 4, 2012, and recorded on June 11, 2012 with the Barry County Register of Deeds in Instrument No. 2012-001042 and upon which there is now claimed to be due for principal and interest the sum of Twenty One Thousand Two Hundred Seventy One Dollars and Forty Nine Cents ($21,271.49), which continues to accrue interest at the rate of 9.950%, and no suit or proceedings at law having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the mortgage, and the statute in such case made and provided, on August 2, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., the undersigned will sell at the East door of the Barry County Courthouse, Hastings, Michigan, that being the place of holding the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, at public venue to the highest bidder for the purpose of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid upon the Mortgage, together with the legal fees and charges of the sale, including attorney’s fees allowed by law, the premises in the mortgage located in Hope Township, Barry County, Michigan and which are described as follows: Lot 168 of Steven’s Wooded Acres No. 3, according to the plat thereof recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 84, Barry County Records. P.P. #08-07-315168-00 which has an address of 8382 Chain-O-Lakes Drive, Hastings, Michigan 49058. The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a in which case the redemption period shall be thirty (30) days from the date of such sale. Northpointe Bank 3333 Deposit Drive, NE Grand Rapids, MI 49546 DATED: June 22, 2012 Drafted By: William M. Azkoul (P40071) Attorney for Mortgagee 161 Ottawa Avenue, NW Suite 205-C Grand Rapids, MI 49503 77569027 (616) 458-1315 STATE OF MICHIGAN 5th CIRCUIT COURT FAMILY DIVISION COUNTY OF BARRY PUBLICATION OF HEARING CASE NO. 12-8432-NA PETITION NO. 12008292 IN THE MATTER OF: KATHLEEN IRENE OLIVIA LOWERY A Neglect Petition has been filed in the above matter regarding: KATHLEEN OLIVIA LOWERY. DOB. 10-1-10. A TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS HEARING is scheduled for FRIDAY, AUGUST 3, 2012 10:00 A.M. And will be held at Barry County Trial Court Family Division, 206 W. Court St. Ste 302, Hastings, MI 49058. IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED THAT LEONARD PAUL LOWERY II personally appear before the Court at the time and place stated above. Failure to attend the hearing will constitute a denial of interest in the minor, a waiver of notice for all subsequent hearings, a waiver of right to appointment of an attorney, which could result in TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS. 77569362 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Claude Wierckz and Tina Wierckz, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated May 29, 2007, and recorded on June 11, 2007 in instrument 1181556, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Forty-Three Thousand Ninety and 01/100 Dollars ($143,090.01). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 26, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 23, Gackler's Payne Lake Plat, according to the plat recorded in Liber 5 of Plats Page 72 of Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 28, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #404805F01 77569015 (06-28)(07-19) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Danny R. Daugherty, A Single Person, original mortgagor(s), to National Bank of Hastings, Mortgagee, dated November 1, 2002, and recorded on November 23, 2002 in instrument 1092225, and assigned by said Mortgagee to PHH Mortgage Corporation as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-One Thousand Three Hundred FortyFive and 09/100 Dollars ($61,345.09). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 9, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The South 50 feet of Lots 36 and 37 and the North 32 feet of vacated Lincoln Street of Kelly's Addition No. 1, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 94. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #406008F01 (07-12)(08-02) 77569349 SYNOPSIS ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING JULY 3, 2012 Meeting called to order. All board members present. Approved minutes from June 5, 2012 regular board meeting. Correspondence read. Treasurer’s report read and put on file. Fire report read and put on file. Library report read. County Commissioner report read. Parks and Recreation report read. Public comment received. Approved motion to amended ordinance for cemeteries. Approved paying of the bills. Approved motion to adjourn. Respectfully submitted, Jennifer Goy, Clerk 06786309 Attested to by Thomas Rook, Supervisor Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Michael W. Schultz and Bonnie L. Schultz, husband and wife, tenants by the entirety, original mortgagor(s), to Chase Bank USA, N.A., Mortgagee, dated November 14, 2006, and recorded on January 16, 2007 in instrument 1175069, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for J.P. Morgan Mortgage Acquisition Trust 2007-CH4, Asset Backed PassThrough Certificates, Series 2007-CH4 as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-Five Thousand Nine Hundred Twenty-Three and 94/100 Dollars ($165,923.94). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 26, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 26, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, Irving Township, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 28, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #385338F04 77569034 (06-28)(07-19) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Lucas Beroza, an unmarried man and Katrina Harter, an unmarried woman and Steven Beroza, an unmarried man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 17, 2007, and recorded on August 20, 2007 in instrument 20070820-0001078, and assigned by said Mortgagee to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Six Thousand Three Hundred Forty-Seven and 06/100 Dollars ($76,347.06). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 26, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at a point in the Center of the Highway 20 rods West of the Southeast corner of the West 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 28, Town 1 North, Range 9 West; thence North 10 rods thence West 10 rods; thence South 10 rods; thence East 10 rods to the place of beginning, Barry Township, Barry County, Michigan The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 28, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #347971F02 77567817 (06-28)(07-19) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, July 12, 2012 — Page 13 Looking For a PRINTER? 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We process 35mm Advanced Photo System and 120 film on site. 1 Hour or Next Day Processing • COLOR COPIES • COMMERCIAL PRINTING • INVITATIONS & MORE Conveniently located near you! J-Ad Graphics Printing Plus Charlotte Litho 1351 North M-43 Highway (just north of city limits) Hastings, MI 49058-0188 144 S. Cochran (right on Charlotte’s Main Street) Charlotte, Michigan 48813 (269) 945-5078 Fax (269) 945-5192 (517) 543-4041 Fax (517) 543-2272 Marshall Printing Plus Lowell Litho COMPLETE BINDERY 514 S. Kalamazoo Avenue Marshall, Michigan 49068 WEB AND SHEETFED OFFSET PRINTING (269) 727-0091 Fax (269) 727-0090 105 N. Broadway St. Lowell, MI 49331 (616) 897-9261 Fax (616) 897-4809 �Page 14 — Thursday, July 12, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Use caution when driving or following livestock trailers Recently, a mid-Michigan automobile accident resulted in the loss of the best Christmas present a little girl could receive: her horse. This accident was allegedly caused by an inci- BBB warns of bogus $1,000 utility scam Residents of Southwest Michigan are being misled into believing they are getting up to $1,000 from the government to pay their cable, gas, and electric utility bills, said Phil Cattlet, president of the Better Business Bureau of Western Michigan. The scam is providing thieves access to consumer confidential information, he said, and leading consumers to use non-existent funds in their accounts to pay other bills. The fraud puts consumers at risk of identity theft, utility shutoffs, fees for non-sufficient checks, and more, said Cattlet. Consumers are being asked for their Social Security numbers and bank routing information by the criminals, and in return are receiving their supposed government grant. The routing number used by the scammers is 12408524, and their supposed account number is 13419. The deposit shows up briefly in the consumer’s checking account, only later to be found to have been drawn against an invalid account, he said. Texts, emails, door-to-door sales, websites and word of mouth from friends and family are all involved. The most effective part of this scam is that friends and family members are participating. They send checks to pay off their other bills, believing they really have the money in their account from the deposit the crooks are making, explained Cattlet. “They share this wonderful news of the government money with family and friends, and when they discover the money is really not there, they have already written a bunch of non-sufficient checks to pay off other bills,” he said. To avoid falling into this trap, Cattlet said: • Never provide Social Security information, credit card numbers or banking information to anyone requesting it over the phone or at home unless the identity of the party seeking the information has been verified. • For calls claiming to be people from the utility company or the government who pressure for immediate personal information, hang up the phone and call the customer service number on the respective utility bill. • Always think safety first. Do not give in to high-pressure tactics and don’t let anyone in the home without checking their identity. • Don’t let the immediate pressure of debt prevent thinking through a situation. Sources of information are available to give the straight story, such as the BBB. Visit www.bbb.org for more information. Fire department responds to field fires BIRCH Fire Department personnel responded to two grass fires allegedly caused by fireworks July 4. The first was on Hammond Road just south of Ottawa Trail at around 11:30 a.m. Four and a half acres were burned. The second was within Hastings city limits on East North Street around 5:30 p.m. Fire Chief Roger Caris said the fire was out by the time crews arrived on scene. dent of road rage when an impatient driver, frustrated with the slow speed of the truck and horse trailer, cut the truck off sharply. The driver of the trailer was forced to brake suddenly; the horse scrambled, lost its footing and ultimately had to be euthanized. Karen Waite, Michigan State University Extension equine specialist, said this incident demonstrates that many drivers do not realize how challenging it is to drive a truck hauling horses or other livestock, large motorhomes, other recreational vehicles or farm equipment. With the Barry County Fair set to begin next week, livestock trailers will be a common site on area roads the next several days,. “When an accident involves a horse or live- For Rent Business Services 100% WOOD HEAT, no worries. Keep your family safe and warm with an Outdoor Wood Furnace from Central Boiler. D-2 Outdoor Wood Boilers. (616)877-4081. MIDDLE LAKE RENTAL: 3BD apartment. All appliances included, washer, dryer, central air. 1st months rent plus security deposit. Call Joe (269)838-2650. BOOKKEEPING SERVICES Personal * Self-Employed * Small Business Payroll * Billing Accounts Receivable * Accounts Payable General Ledger Weekly * Monthly * Quarterly * Annually Call today! (269)420-5714 AFFORDABLE PROPANE Garage Sale FOR your home/farm/busiGARAGE SALE: JULY 13thness. No delivery fees. Call 14th, 9am-5pm, 424 Loew for a free quote. Diamond Drive, Wayland. Men’s Propane 269-367-9700 items, 1 row cultivator rotoELIMINATE YOU HEAT- tiller & misc. items. ING BILLS- with Classic Outdoor Wood Furnace MOVING SALE HELD in from Central Boiler. Call side air conditioned house. SOS your “Stocking Dealer” Many household items, furDutton , MI (616)554-8669 or niture, collectibles, etc. 6413 Saddle Bag Lake Road, on (616)915-5061. M-66 1/2 mile south of Woodbury 4-way stop. FriEstate Sale day, July 13th, 12(noon)ESTATE SALE: July 20th & 5pm; Saturday, July 14th, 21st 9am-5pm at the corner 10am-6pm. of Norris & M-179, 970 Norris Rd. in the Yankee Springs YARD SALE: JULY 13th14th, 9am-5pm, 1297 Waukaarea. zoo Drive, Hastings. ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The CotHelp Wanted tage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)901- 25 DRIVER TRAINEES Needed NOW! 9898. Become a driver for Schneider National! For Rent Earn $750 per week! MIDDLE LAKE RENTAL: No experience needed! 1BD apartment. All applian- Local CDL Training! ces included, washer, dryer, Job ready in 15 days! central air. 1st months rent 1-877-649-2697. plus security deposit. Call DRIVERS: Dedicated Home Joe (269)838-2650. Daily! Sign-on Bonus- $1000! Great Miles, Money, More! CDL-A. 1yr OTR. MTS: 800748-0192 x208/x214 PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 Call 269-945-9554 any time for Hastings Banner classified ads ROY HALL’S AUTO & BOATDETAILING: 25 years serving Barry County, (269)948-8377. Real Estate ACREAGE: 70 ACRES rolling, wooded and beautiful. Great location to build custom home or cabin. Great price $280,000. Call Bill Sikkema 269-488-0576, Prudential Preferred, Realtors. Recreation WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are interested in leasing acreage for this years deer season. Call (269)795-3049 National Ads THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is deceptive, fraudulent or might otherwise violate law or accepted standards of taste. However, this publication does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the quality of goods or services advertised. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made in any advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you ask for money in advance of delivery of goods or services advertised. Lawn & Garden AQUATIC PLANTS: OUR Lotus & Water Lilies are ready! Also Koi & Goldfish, pumps, filters & pond supplies. APOLS WATER GARDENS, 9340 Kalamazoo, Caledonia MI. (616)6981030 M-F 9:00-5:30, Sat 9:002:00. Automotive 1994 THUNDERBIRD: works, needs a little TLC $950 obo. (616)889-2024 they’re passing. Although an impatient driver caused this particular incident, several other issues may result in horse trailer accidents. Regular trailer maintenance is a key responsibility of owning and hauling animals, as is using an appropriately sized vehicle to haul the trailer and making certain that those responsible for driving have experience driving such rigs before setting out. To learn how to appropriately respond in an emergency while hauling a trailer, view this article on trailer safety, www.equisearch.com/uncategorized/horsetrailer-safety-emergency/. SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN Take parents on a tour of website by Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Do your parents spend much time online? Sometimes, older parents can be apprehensive about using the Internet and conducting business online. There is no reason they should be when it comes to Social Security’s online services at www.socialsecurity.gov, which are consistently rated not only the best and easiest to use in government, but in the private sector, as well. What are some of the reasons your parents may want to visit www.socialsecurity.gov? Allow us to show you around so you can give Mom and Dad the proper tour. Front and center, there is always a series of illustrated panels. This is where we share new LEGAL Banner CLASSIFIEDS NOTICES CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 For Sale stock trailer, both human and animal lives can be lost,” Waite said. “Most drivers don’t realize that the combined weight of the truck, trailer, livestock, horses or equipment makes it extremely difficult for the driver to stop quickly or slow down substantially.” Livestock producers thinking about the health and safety of their animals while driving tend to drive slightly slower than posted speeds and leave a great deal of stopping distance between their vehicles and the vehicles in front of them. Waite suggests that drivers passing a vehicle hauling a trailer should merge back into the lane allowing double the usual amount of space between their vehicles and the one IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Dale Krueger Jr., a married man and Frances Krueger, his wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated January 19, 2007 and recorded February 8, 2007 in Instrument Number 1176188, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Bank of America, N.A., as successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. FKA Countrywide Home Loans Servicing L.P by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ninety-Eight Thousand Four and 17/100 Dollars ($198,004.17) including interest at 4.625% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 08/09/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Real property in the Township of Thornapple, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and is described as follows; Lot 6, Thornapple Bends Estates, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats, Page 35. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: July 12, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 285.6471 (07-12)(08-02) 77569399 messages, initiatives and items of interest, such as breaking news and tips on new or improved online services. To the right, you’ll find a big question mark: that is where you can find our most frequently asked questions — and the answers to them. If your parents have a question about Social Security, chances are someone else had the same question. We have collected them on our website, and it is easy to search for questions on a variety of Social Security topics. To the left of the page you will find our top services. Virtually anything you want to do online can be found here: apply online for retirement, disability or Medicare benefits; get an instant, personalized estimate of future benefits with our online Retirement Estimator; and obtain information about how to get or replace a Social Security card. Take your parents for a visit to www.socialsecurity.gov. It is one small way you can give back to those who have given so much for you. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. POLICE BEAT Canoeing teens found safe The Barry County Sheriff's Department responded July 10 to Yankee Springs Recreation Area after a 14-year-old boy and 17- year-old girl had gone out on Gun Lake in a canoe approximately 3 1/2 hours earlier and had not returned. The sheriff's department marine unit and Thornapple Township Emergency Services dispatched search boats to the area. Before any search boats were launched the missing teens returned to their campsite unharmed. No further action is being sought by any agency. License is suspended, so car is towed Hastings officers stopped a car on East Green Street July 5 for having an expired registration plate. They learned the 25-yearold Hastings driver also had a suspended operator’s license. The woman admitted that the license plate belonged on a different car. Her vehicle was towed. She was cited and released for the suspended license offense, as well as an improper use of a registration plate. Teen shoplifts, winds up in jail Hastings officers were called to the Hastings Kmart June 26 for a reported shoplifting incident. The store’s loss prevention personnel told officers they had detained an 18-year-old Middleville man. According to employees, the man placed several packages of contraceptives into his pockets and attempted to leave the store without paying. He was arrested and lodged at the Barry County Jail. Woman arrested for more than ditch driving A Barry County Sheriff’s Deputy responded July 2 to a call about a woman who had driven her car into a ditch while attempting to turn around on Cedar Creek Road near Delton. While her driving skills could be deemed questionable, two Calhoun County Friend of the Court warrants prompted the Barry County Sheriff’s Department to arrest a 33-year-old Battle Creek woman. The deputy ran the woman’s license information and discovered two outstanding warrants for failure to pay child support. Intoxicated driver stopped for defective equipment Hastings officers stopped a vehicle on West Court Street for defective equipment around 1:50 a.m. July 1. One of the vehicle’s headlamps was not working, and officers noticed the vehicle was backing up near a stop sign. After the vehicle backed up, it then went forward toward the same stop sign. When officers approached the 23year-old Nashville driver, he admitted he had consumed several alcoholic drinks at home prior to going to a local bar where he had more to drink. He was asked to perform several sobriety tests and failed a portable breath test. He was transported to the Barry County Jail where he again failed a breath test, and was charged with operating while intoxicated. Helicopters called to search for missing teen Michigan State Police helicopters were called in June 28 to help search for a missing Middleville teen who ran away after an argument with his mother. Although the 13year- old had only been missing a short while, the Barry County Sheriff’s Department and three State Police troopers, including the helicopter and K-9 units, were called in to assist. The boy’s mother said her son suffers from aortic stynosis and had been suicidal in the past. According to the mother, she and her son argued while she was driving him home from an event at Duncan Lake Middle School in Caledonia. Her son threw her cell phone out the window of their vehicle as she drove down Cherry Valley Road near Parmalee Road at approximately 1 p.m. then jumped out of the vehicle when she stopped to retrieve the phone. The search was called off when the teen’s mother found her son walking around the village of Caledonia around 4 p.m. Name calling ends in arrest Hastings officers were called to the 500 block of East Madison Street July 8 for a reported loud argument outside of a residence. Officers met with a 26-year-old woman who was walking away from an individual. The man continued to yell names and obscenities toward her. The 49year-old Hastings man was told several times by officers to quiet down, but he continued to occasionally yell. Police arrested the man for being disorderly, and he continued to yell obscenities while in handcuffs and in the back seat of the patrol car. His blood alcohol level registered .22 percent. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, July 12, 2012 — Page 15 CORN, continued from page 1 cally altered to withstand more drought than what was planted in 1988, said Spitzley. “The new hybrids are formulated to withstand dryer weather,” said Spitzley. “But just how well isn’t known yet.” Most local farmers are somewhat protected with crop insurance, he said. A meeting has been set with insurance agents to see just what the procedure will be for revenue protection, and how the formula works. Farmers who will have to rely on crop insurance will most likely end up with just enough to pay the bills, but will not be able to get ahead, he said. Those farmers who have forward-contracted to sell their corn may be forced to buy out the balance of a contract, or come up with the balance of the corn they contracted for. That could mean going out of state to fill the balance. That would mean relying on out-of-state farmers, many of whom are facing the same drought problems as in Michigan. Local farmers contract with Caledonia Elevator, Andersons in Woodbury, Archer Daniels Midland in Grand Ledge or the ethanol plant in Woodbury. “This is the worst drought I’ve seen in my 24 years of farming,” said Spitzley, “I’ve heard people talk about all the little things that they do that usually cause it to rain, like wash the car, water plants, rain dances, etc. Unfortunately, all we can really do is wait, and pray.” Area crops are thirsty for rain especially after enduring the 90- or 100-degree days the previous two weeks. Corn leaves are shriveled and spiked to help protect the plants, but the effects of heat and lack of rain are taking a toll. (Photo by Julie Makarewicz) Above right: Local fields of corn reached the milestone of being knee-high by the Fourth of July, but lack of rain has slowed growth. (Photo by Julie Makarewicz) July Sale HH HH 15% Off Fabrics & Quilt Books Excludes sale items. H Fleece – U of M®, MSU® & WMU® HCotton – U of M® & MSU® ... Many more other prints HPray for our Military Personnel QUESTIONS: ASK US... At right: Irrigation systems keep this corn field looking green. (Photo by J u l i e Makarewicz) Sisters Fabrics 218 E. State St., Hastings • 945-9673 77569277 07603991 77569289 OPEN: Monday-Thursday 8 am-5:30 pm; Friday 8 am-7 pm; Saturday 9 am-5:30 pm Hulst Cleaners Pick-Up Station 77569286 77569283 77569295 77569248 77569292 �Page 16 — Thursday, July 12, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Michigan Avenue bridge on schedule to open Aug. 10 The Michigan Avenue bridge project is on schedule to open Aug. 10. Traffic will be able to use the bridge, although many other associated projects will still continue, including curbs and gutters, grass restoration, sidewalks and railings. A ribbon cutting and celebration for the opening of the bridge will be announced soon. Workers prepare to pour the surface of the Michigan Avenue bridge early July 4. An automatic screed is set in place to ensure uniformity proper drainage angles over the entire cement surface. Working at night is required during the hot summer months to aid in the correct curing of the bridge surface cement. This is the Michigan Avenue bridge July 3 before the cement surface was poured. More than 220 cubic yards of cement, or approximately 26 cement truck loads, are used to complete the Michigan Avenue bridge surface. Preparations for pouring began around 10 p.m. July 3 and finishing touches were completed around 5:30 a.m. July 4. Photos by Fred Jacobs Ray L. Girrbach Owner/Director From left to right: David J. Heeringa, D.O., Orthopedic Surgeon; James L. Horton, Jr., D.O., Orthopedic Surgeon; Eric S. Leep, D.O., Physical Medicine; Kenneth S. Merriman, M.D., Orthopedic Surgeon. People. Passion. Technology Phone 269.945.9520 / Toll Free 800.596.1005 07603896 Welcome to Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, your musculoskeletal experts close to home. We specialize in the Art of Total Orthopedic Care, Physical Medicine, and Pain Management. We provide the highest degree of service in an efficient, personal, and professional manner. Our focus is to maximize the health, function, and quality of life of the population we serve. 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 • 269-945-3252 Serving Hastings, Barry County and Surrounding Communities for 45 years •Traditional and Cremation Services •Pre-Planning Services •Large Parking Lot - Handicap Accessible •Serving All Faiths •Pre-arrangement Transfers Accepted Family Owned and Operated www.girrbachfuneralhome.net � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-07-19.pdf 1a48d888e25826794ad7db1cb4b5557e PDF Text Text Experts testify in Terpening case Community center, airport highlighted 0-16 team becomes postseason runners-up See Story on Page 13 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 15 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 29 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, July 19, 2012 NEWS Board walks delicate path to animal control resolution BRIEFS Thornapple Manor open as cooling center Thornapple Manor, the Barry Countyowned long-term care facility, is again serving as a cooling station for seniors seeking relief from the heat this week. Tuesday, July 17, through Sunday, July 22, the facility will be open to seniors who do not have adequate air conditioning in their homes. The manor is at 2700 Nashville Road. For more information, call 269-9452407. Pacific Lite to play at fountain Pacific Trio minus one equals Pacific Lite, the duo of local musicians Gene Englerth and Joe LaJoye, which performs a variety of music with an emphasis on jazz. Pacific Lite will perform at the July 20 Fridays at the Fountain concert series. All Fridays at the Fountain concerts start at noon and end at 1:30 p.m. and are held near the fountain on the Barry County Courthouse lawn. Pacific Lite, with Englerth on keyboards and vocals, and LaJoye playing brass and also providing vocals, has played venues ranging from ballroom dances to jazz festivals and summer festivals all over Michigan and the Midwest. Concert-goers are reminded to bring their own blankets or lawn chairs. In the event of rain, the concert will be in the community room of Hastings City Bank, 150 W. Center St. Southeastern staff hosting garage sale to benefit students Staff members at Southeastern Elementary School in Hastings are busy cleaning out closets and rummaging through attics, basements and garages in search of treasures to sell at their upcoming garage sale., which will be from 9 a.m., to 5 p.m. Thursday, July 26, at 1300 S. East St., Hastings. The staff came up with the idea of a garage sale hoping to counteract the effects of this year’s slim budget on their students. Staff members said they see this sale as another opportunity for the community to support students and get some good deals on a large variety of items that are like new and in working condition. All proceeds will directly benefit student education. The free lunch program, for all children up to age 18, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Southeastern will be available that date, as usual. by Doug VanderLaan Editor Though they took an important step in unanimously approving a recommendation for a new management structure of their animal control department, Barry County Commissioners found at their committee of the whole meeting Tuesday that there’s still some bark in the fight. The nearly two-year scrap over how animal control and shelter issues should be handled came closer to resolution with the presentation by Commission Chair Craig Stolsonburg of a plan to separate animal control enforcement and animal shelter functions. Enforcement under the proposed plan would remain with the sheriff’s department and one full-time animal control officer as well as an existing full-time clerical position. Shelter functions such as spaying, neutering, adoption, and euthanasia would be under the supervision of a new, full-time animal shelter director who would report to County Administrator Michael Brown. The new position would be funded, in part, by an existing animal control officer position which has been vacated and not replaced. Stolsonburg also presented a job description for the new animal shelter director position which, on the commission’s vote, is to be forwarded to Mark Nottley of Municipal Consulting Services, LLC, for a review of job classification placement and recommended salary. Tuesday’s bark, however, came when the commission was presented with an offer from the Barry County Humane Society to donate $18,000 as a show of support for the proposed animal shelter operation. Attached to the offer, as presented by Humane Society Director Mary Fisher, were several conditions including input on the hiring of the new director, independence from the Animal Control Advisory Board, an onsite office for volunteers, and a commission commitment to return the operation to its original name, the Barry County Animal Shelter. “We want a seat at the table,” said Fisher, reminding commissioners that, after the humane society gave $30,000 to help build a new animal shelter with no requests attached 12 year ago, a new sheriff administration changed its position on the use of volunteers. “Now here we are, 12 years later, trying to get a place down there — we haven’t been welcome down there. “Why didn’t you request it when you gave the $30,000, Mary?” challenged Commissioner Don Nevins. “We should have, would have, could have,” replied Fisher. That’s why I’m here today. In hindsight, that’s what we should have done and I’m not here to play the heavy. $18,000 is a lot of money and we can help them run the shelter with volunteers but it has to be a buyin from the new person. That’s why we’d like to be a part of it, to be sure there’s going to be a relationship.” It was that relationship, though, that made some commissioners uneasy. “I would just like to say, before this all spins out of control, that the $18,000 is very commendable,” said Commission Joe Lyons. “I know you don’t mean it this way, but it shouldn’t be held over anybody’s head to get your means. We need a director, we put them in place, and they’re in charge, they do what they think is best.” Commissioner Dan Parker agreed. “We’ve got to be careful that we don’t get the cart before the horse,” said Parker. “The new director cannot feel like they’re being micromanaged. If we get the director going, then I think that’s when the (humane society offer) ought to be done. It will be more palatable for them because they’ll feel like there’s this special interest group that’s going to be pushing my buttons. You don’t want that, they don’t want that, and we don’t want that.” Prior to the vote to recommend the new management structure and the evaluation of the animal shelter director job description by the classification consultant, Commissioner Robert Houtman offered a clarification to the board. “Now this will be evaluated,” he said in reference to the job description. “Assuming it’s approved, then we begin the recruitment process at which point we determine who the interview group is and any potential involvement of the humane society.” Fisher provided agreement and an offer for the board to reconsider. “I agree, we should wait, summed up Fisher. “We’ll come back and you can always say no and then it’s off the table, but we just wanted to make the offer.” In other business, the board recommended approval of the following items at the Board of Commissioners meeting on July 24: • A $1,647 annual increase in the county’s contribution toward the salary of the district court judge to align it with the compensation provided the probate and circuit judges under the Barry County Unified Trial Court arrangement. • The purchase of 16 tasers, 30 holsters, 200 training cartridges, and 100 duty cartridges for road patrol officers at a total cost of $26,282. Tasers currently being used are more than 10 years old and are becoming inoperable. • The purchase of 16 data sheet printers for road patrol vehicles at a total cost of $18,595. Printers currently being used are approaching lifetime maximums and do not interface with the e-ticket program in place at the courts. • A contractual agreement with Eaton County to provide Level IV equalization services as required by Michigan law. The retirement of Equalization Director Karen Scarbrough left Barry County without equalization services and a lack of qualified Level IV candidates has created a critical void. Funding for the contract will be provided through existing money set aside for the county’s use of Level III equalization services. • Assent for a conceptual layout plan for the relocation of the MSU Extension Service from the courts and law building to the former library building. Commissioners also provided input on relocating a handicap access ramp to the front of the building. The board asked Robert VanPutten of the Landmark Design Group to return with a more detailed plan integrating the changes suggested and to begin work on a similar space study for the Courts & Law building. Three days left to take in the Barry County Fair Area residents and guests, too, have three more days to visit the 160th Barry County Fair, which runs through Saturday, July 21. The fair board is doing its best to keep visitors cool. Misting hoses are set up and running throughout the fairgrounds. Fans are running at top speed throughout the barns and exhibit areas. Some organizations are giving away bottled water or water by the cup and a cooling tent is set up to give visitors a break from the heat. Courtesy golf carts help fair-goers get from one end of the grounds to the other. Parking is free every day. Admission for children ages 12 and younger also is free every day. Adult daily admission is $5 per day or $15 for a weekly pass. There’s something for everyone at the fair — from livestock shows to grandstand auto shows and races, musical entertainment, mid- way rides and games and lots of food. Nightly grandstand activities include autocross tonight, motocross Friday, and demolition derby Saturday. The birthing tent has been busy, too. From Tuesday evening to Wednesday morning, two litters of pigs, two lambs and one calf were born in the Miracle of Birth Tent. Chicks hatch daily, and several ducklings waddle about. More lambs and calves are expected to make their entrance to the world at the Barry County Fair. The community tent is a source of free entertainment. Karaoke starts at 7 p.m. tonight. Friday night will bring the Country Music Jamboree at 7 p.m., featuring some local favorites, including Bushwacker and Friends, Bert Jones and Co., Dan and Dee Country Roots, and the Williams Family Workshop designed to help smokers kick habit A workshop to help people quit smoking is planned for Thursday, July 26, from noon to 2 p.m. at the Barry-Eaton District Health Department, 330 W. Woodlawn Ave., Hastings. Heather Sanders, health educator for the health department, said this free program is a no-pressure, one-time workshop that shows individuals how they can be smoke-free. Included in the program are ways to make quitting easier with tips, information on medications, strategies and resources. RSVP by calling 517-5412691 or emailing hsanders@bedhd.org. Anderson Collins, 3, and Parker Knoop, 5, from Caledonia enjoy some frozen treats Wednesday at the Barry County Fair. Their grandmother brought the two cousins to the fair for the afternoon. Sage Winters (left) and Melia McCausey, both 8 years old from Hastings, enjoy a ride at the midway of Barry County Fair Wednesday. Bluegrass band. Saturday evening brings the Taste of Barry County, followed by the 4-H dance to close out the week. Youngsters have been busy with 4-H projects, livestock shows and contests. The dairy and dairy feeder shows are today, along with the small animal auction. The large animal livestock sale is Friday, and the show of champions is Saturday morning. The Great 4-H Race returns for the second year Saturday afternoon. 4-H horse show competitions take place daily throughout the week. New this year is the Great Lakes Timber Show with three daily programs located across from the Farm Bureau Tent. Returning favorites will be the bingo tent, Barnyard Express, Miracle of Birth tent, Taste of Barry County and the antique tractor club displays, demonstrations and competitions. See FAIR, page 16 �Page 2 — Thursday, July 19, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Barry Community Enrichment Center hosts open house by David DeDecker Staff Writer The new Barry Community Enrichment Center held an open house July 14. More than 135 people attended the ribbon cutting at 11:30 a.m., with many more stopping at the open house that continued through 4 p.m. The organizations and agencies housed within the center each had information tables and treats, along with raffles and give-aways. The Thornapple Jazz Orchestra entertained a crowd outside. The newly renovated building, which the center calls home, was formerly the Hastings First Presbyterian Church. The Community Enrichment Center now brings together in one place access to assistance and support services, as well to the Barry Community Foundation, Community Action, United Way, Thornapple Area Enrichment Foundation, Leadership Barry County, Family Support Center, CASA, Navigate, Thornapple Players and the Thornapple Arts Council. Thornapple Arts Council Program Director Kellen Deau shows various desserts offered at the TAC information table. President and CEO of the Barry Community Foundation Bonnie Hildreth began the celebration with a quote from late U.S. Senator Jack Kemp, “The power of one man or one woman doing the right thing for the right reason, and at the right time, is the greatest influence in our society.” “Here we are,” said Hildreth, “with many women and men — the leaders of our comThe parking lot next to the Barry Community Enrichment Center is home to many booths sporting games and prizes during the center’s open house Saturday. The Thornapple Jazz Orchestra attracts a crowd just outside the Barry Community Enrichment Center’s open house in Leason Sharpe Hall. munity — believing in this concept of an enrichment center, a place where residents of all ages may experience the arts, from performances to galleries of individual talents; a place where the most vulnerable residents may come to find assistance from mentors, emergency funding to assistance with state and federal filings; a place where students can come to find assistance while trying to figure out how they can access the secondary education necessary to provide for a sustainable wage for their future; where young people can find volunteers and mentors that will help them gain the life skills to be a productive, happy and healthy member of our community; a place where residents of all ages can learn what it means to be a leader, a true leader that understands it is not about what you get, but what you give back; and a place where people who desire to give back can find their opportunity to make a sustainable difference that will continue, for good, for ever. “This is our day to celebrate this incredible dream come true,” she said. “Individually, we are one drop. Together, we are an ocean. “This day would not be possible without a committed, incredibly talented and thoughtful community leaders who believe in the mission that the Barry Community Foundation will serve as a leader, catalyst and resource to improve the lives of the people in the Barry County area by promoting charitable giving and the creation of permanently endowed funds, now and for future generations.” For more information on the Barry Community Enrichment Center, call 269-9450526, or stop in at 231 S. Broadway in Hastings. Civil War re-enactment set for July 21 and 22 Soldiers in blue and gray will fill Historic Charlton Park this weekend. History will come alive Saturday, July 21, and Sunday, July 22, at Historic Charlton Park during the Civil War muster, with hundreds of re-enactors depicting Confederate and Union infantry, cavalry and artillery units. Residents can be a part of the history — 150 years later — as America enters the second year of the Civil War with authentic battles in High Meadows and the village that allows guests to see and understand the fierce clashes between the blue and gray. Visitors also can shop on Sutler Row, play parlor games, watch a fashion show, see military demonstrations, participate in the country barn dance and enjoy the candle lantern tour in the evening. Visitors are encouraged to talk with the reenactors in their Civil War-era clothing and 77569443 see their authentic camp Event hours are Saturday 9 a.m. to dusk and Sunday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Battles will take place Saturday at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Sunday. Saturday at 7:30 p.m. will be the start of a barn dance, followed by a candlelight tour at 9 and cannon night firing over the river at 10 p.m. A full schedule of events is planned both days. Food vendors will be on site. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for kids 5 to 12 years, 4 and under are free. Charlton Park is located between Hastings and Nashville, just off M-79. For more information, call 269- 945-3775, visit www.charltonpark.org or search Historic Charlton Park on Facebook. American Legion needs new uniforms Candidate debates scheduled Commercial Bank Community President Tim Kelly (right) and marketing representative Jill Beardsley present a $250 check to Jim Gross of the Hastings American Legion Post 45. The post’s volunteer honor guard participates in more than 30 funerals a year, parades and county military dedications and presentations. The post’s honor guard consists of 21 veterans, and they need new uniforms. Post 45 is asking for community support to purchase the new uniforms. Each set of summer/winter uniforms costs approximately $420. The post’s fundraising goal is $8,500. For more information, call 269-945-4973. Donations may be mailed to American Legion Post 45, PO Box 152, Hastings 49058. (Note it as a donation to honor guard uniforms.) As the Aug. 7 primary election nears, J-Ad Graphics Inc. will sponsor two candidate debates in races of countywide, high-profile interest. Thursday, July 26, the race for county prosecutor will be highlighted by a debate between current Barry County Prosecutor Tom Evans and his opponent, former prosecutor Julie NakfoorPratt. The debate will be at the Commission on Aging building at 320 W. Woodlawn Ave. in Hastings and will begin at 7:30 p.m. It will be moderated by Hastings attorney, Bob Byington. Tuesday, July 31, a debate between current Chief Deputy Register of Deeds Barbara Hurless and challengers Jake Jelsema and Linda Watson also will be at the Commission on Aging building, beginning at 7 p.m. Possible future candidate forums may yet be scheduled. Stay informed with your copies of the Banner and the Reminder. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, July 19, 2012 — Page 3 Dawn Patrol attracts variety of planes Saturday Members of the local Civil Air Patrol were on hand July 14 to answer questions and sign up volunteers. Civil Air Patrol volunteers participate in searches and rescues, disaster relief, humanitarian services with the Red Cross, support mission for the U.S. Air Force and counterdrug operations. Volunteers as young as 12 can become involved with Civil Air Patrol. Visitor walk among the 65 planes which flew into Hastings for the annual Dawn Patrol July 14. Old and new aircraft share the runway at this year’s annual Hastings Flying Association Dawn Patrol. The Gyroplane, manufactured in Hastings, taxis out past a 1941 Stearman biplane. The Stearman was used to train 60,000 pilots for World War II. More than 65 planes fly in to the annual Hastings/Barry County Airport Dawn Patrol event organized by the Hastings Flying Association. The event was sponsored by Bosley Pharmacy and Patten Monument. Planes are not the only stars at the annual Dawn Patrol. Antique cars, such as these two 1956 Ford station wagons, attract many interested visitors. The Hastings/Barry County Airport attracts a large crowd Saturday, July 14. The Hastings Flying Association served more than 400 pancake breakfasts. Proceeds of the event will help make improvements to the airport facilities. Photos by David DeDecker Flying in from Fremont, this threequarter scale replica of the British Scout Experimental No. 5 biplane hand-built by the pilot was a hit with the crowd, especially when the pilot fired off the wingmounted model Lewis machine gun, making a rat-a-tat-tat sound. The SE5 appeared on the Western Front of World War I in 1917. This 1957 T-34 Navy Trainer from Battle Creek was a crowd-pleaser. 06786566 The 1941 Stearman biplane attracts curious visitors at the Dawn Patrol breakfast. With a seven-cylinder rotary engine, the plane has a unique sound. Historically, the Stearman was used after World War II as a crop duster, aerobatics performer and sport plane. Many of the 10,000 Stearmans which were manufactured are still flying. �Page 4 — Thursday, July 19, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Dawn Patrol event highlights airport progress Porcine cool Last weekend, more than 65 planes landed at the Hastings airport to take part in the annual Dawn Patrol. Since its inception, this special event has always been held on a Sunday, but, in the hopes of increasing traffic, this year’s event was moved to this past Saturday. According to John Mantle of the Hastings Flying Association, this year’s event was the most successful Dawn Patrol ever. The event drew large crowds and served more than 400 pancake breakfasts, raising over $2,400 and providing 56 plane rides, raising over $1,600 for airport operations. In an opinion column last year, I supported the Hastings/Barry County Airport manager Mark Noteboom’s request to the Barry County Board of Commissioners and Hastings City Council members for a proposal to work with a local donor in generating enough money to make the airport self-supporting within five years. Two years previously, Barry County voters had rejected a proposal to make the airport self-supporting within 10 years. The special millage would have generated $182,783 for airport maintenance, operations and improvements by giving the airport enough money so that city and county governments could eventually end their yearly operational support. I felt then that the millage was a reasonable request because airport officials put together a sound business plan with enough new revenues to support improvements necessary to generate the capital needed to fund its operations. After that millage defeat, Noteboom approached commissioners. “An anonymous donor is willing to work with the airport board to make the facility self-supporting,” reported Noteboom. “The special donor and airport officials have put together a five-year plan to make it possible. “The donor has already put up money to fund a jet fueling station and is willing to MooVille’s Freddy the pig knows how to stay cool in hot weather. Mud helps keeps pigs cool and protects them from sunburn. He seems unphased by the sun and the attention. (Photo by Bonnie Mattson) We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@jadgraphics.com. Do you know? Fairly foul Do you recognize this young man who seems none too thrilled to be showing a steer? The photo has no identification other than to say it was taken by Barth Studio in Hastings. It may have been taken at the Barry County Fair when it was where the Kmart plaza is today. If so, what building is he standing near? Any idea what year this was taken? What can you tell us about this photo? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event to reunite the photos with their original clippings or identify photos that may never have been used. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@j- Have you donate a 48-by-48-foot hangar, which will bring in another $700 a month in new revenue,” said Noteboom. “Right now, we have plans and approvals to go ahead with a five-box hangar which will bring in another $7,000 to $8,000 per month.” The donor was willing to continue support as long as the city and county governments maintained their yearly operational support until the airport was on firm financial footing. For years, the airport has been considered one of the best airfields in the state for communities of our size, and our community has been recognized as a “fine example of civic cooperation and enterprise for developing the airfield,” according to George Cushing of WJR Radio, who attended the airport’s ribbon cutting opening more than 64 years ago. Over the years, the airport has seen steady growth, which was celebrated June 23, 1990, when the airport took a giant step forward with the dedication of the new Earl McMullin Airport Administration Building. The new terminal was part of a plan developed back in 1982, calling for a series of enhancements and upgrades at the airport by extending the runway, adding taxiways, a new apron and runway lighting. Through local support, the airport has proven a valuable asset to our community, and it continues to grow and become a factor in the area’s business and industrial growth. I applaud Mr. Noteboom and the anonymous donor for their competence in making a plan work which, Noteboom recently reported to the county commission, is now even ahead of its five-year plan toward self sufficiency. It just shows what can be accomplished when public organizations work together for the common good with a strong business plan while attracting public and private funding. Barry Enrichment Center celebrates grand opening adgraphics.com; or call 269-945-9554. met? Growing old has never much bothered she becomes to anyone who meets her, Pauline Puttbrese. Somehow, she’s been Pauline Puttbrese is truly one of Barry able to make every year more interesting County’s “bright lights.” than the previous, including this, her 99th, when she went downtown to get her first tatGreatest city to visit: Paris ... for the histoo, a pink rose on her thigh. tory, the way they live, the wine. “I wanted one for more than 10 years,” Famous person I’d like to be: Liz Taylor she quips of her ‘peekaboo,’ which she kept ... good looks, big diamonds. Not too intellisecret for two months from staff at her apart- gent — but I never was, either. ment in Woodlawn Meadows assisted living Advice I’d give a young person today: complex in Hastings, for fear that she might No credit cards. be asked to leave. Best advice I ever received: I never got One would be hard pressed to ask Pauline much. to leave even a conversation. A world travelFavorite author: I wouldn’t dare tell er who’s visited more than 90 countries, she you. It’s Danielle Steel, but that doesn’t can hold a visitor spellbound with stories of show my intelligence. the doctor who saved her husband’s life in Greatest travel destination: The Taj Iraq or the night she pilfered an anti- Mahal. Eisenhower poster from a construction site fence in Paris. Before she and Mr. Puttbrese headed on their worldwide travels, Pauline helped raise three children, each of whom, she proudly points out today, has been married to his or her spouse for more than 60 years. It was her children who “drug me up” from her home in Bradenton, Fla., so Pauline could be nearer to them in Grand Rapids, Portage, and Charlotte — but she has no unkind words for Hastings. Old age is difficult, Pauline concedes, because everyone around her, including family, has died. Even in difficulty, though, her brightness shines through in her humor. “My son tells me to ‘just make new friends,’ and I do,” says Pauline, “then my new friends die.” For the encouragePauline Puttbrese shows the anti-Eisenhower poster she ment she provides removed from a fence in Paris in 1952. others, for the friend Pauline Puttbrese Greatest travel memory: We spent one day at Carnival in Rio. It was rough, but colorful. Person I most admire: Dr. Serkis, the doctor in Baghdad who helped my husband and who came to the airport at 5 a.m. to see us off. Greatest world leader: [Former President Bill] Clinton. He didn’t have any morals, but he had a brain. My political affiliation: I’m not a Republican or a Democrat. I just vote for the best-looking guy. When I grow up, I want to be: I’m already growed up. Secret to a long life: Gin and genes — and I don’t mean blue jeans. My Saturday night date: Lawrence Welk. Best thing about Barry County: I like the tattoo shop. Each week, the Banner profiles a person who makes Barry County shine. We’ll provide a quick peek each week at some of Barry County’s stars. Do you know someone who should be featured? Send information to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Another great example of working together for the common good of the community happened Saturday, when the new community center, supported by the Barry Community Foundation, moved into its new facility. I served on the community foundation board for several years and can remember discussing the benefits of bringing the community’s nonprofits together under one roof. The ribbon was cut Saturday morning to celebrate the new home for several community agencies that are housed in the newly remodeled former First Presbyterian Church on the corner of South Broadway and Church Street. The agencies include Barry Community Foundation, Thornapple Arts Council, United Way, Thornapple Area Enrichment Foundation, CASA, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Leadership Barry County and the Youth Advisory Council. This is another great story of community cooperation as these agencies settle in to the more than 160-year-old building repurposed to house these community organizations and serve the community for many years to come. Saving the beautiful building that is considered one of the oldest churches in Hastings makes it even more special. The first church was completed in 1853 after what was characterized as “much prayer, discussion and hard work.” The one-room structure was completed that summer. Over the years, the beautiful Colonial-style structure had been added on to handle the expansion and needs of a growing church. Last year, church members moved into their new multi-million facility on M-37 just north of Hastings. The new facility features a larger worship area with modern sound and audio capability, a town hallstyle gathering place, gym and fellowship What do you Last week’s question: The latest section of the Riverwalk in Hastings is less than a year old but sees a lot of traffic, including runners, walkers, bikers, and others with strollers, skates and skateboards. Have you checked out the Riverwalk? Yes No Fred Jacobs, vice president, J-Ad Graphics think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website, www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week. Feel free to leave an opinion or comment. 55 % 45 % hall, youth center and space for Noah’s Ark Preschool, plus Sunday school rooms. Finding a suitable use for the old structure was very important to many of the church members. There was a lot of concern that the church would end up being torn town to accommodate additional parking in the downtown area. So often these days, we don’t take into consideration how important old buildings are to the character of a community. As people pass through town, this beautiful old structure adds so much to the beauty of the downtown. The church has a great history, which now will be protected for generations as a community center. When church members use the facility in the future, it will bring back many memories of the past — growing up attending church, weddings, funerals, dinners and numerous community functions. In fact, as I think about it, the church, the Leason Sharpe Hall and grounds were a community center all along; the only difference is that it has new occupants. Community partners have all moved in, much of the inside decorating is completed, and there are even more plans for this special facility. In the coming months, you will hear more about the Dennison Performing Arts Center, a new parking lot and additional renovation. Even in all the years that it was a house of worship, First Presbyterian Church was also always a community center, hosting plays, musicals, service club activities and special events. Now it has officially become a community center — a project that was a big one to complete, but one that will continue to grow into a community asset of which we can all be proud. For this week: Scientists have been warning that global warming will produce adverse effects on our lives, as this summer’s drought may prove. Do you believe global warming holds real and dangerous consequences? q Yes q No �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, July 19, 2012 — Page 5 Track record should help decide prosecutors race IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV Redistricting gives residents a new candidate To the editor: For the past four years, Prairieville Township has been represented on the Barry County Board of Commission by Robert Houtman. Bob is someone we have known for over 40 years — long before he became our county commissioner. As a result of redistricting, following the federal census, Bob will no longer represent our township. The new district includes Barry and Hope townships, as well as Precinct 1 of Rutland Township. Based on his steady and fair performance as our county commissioner, the citizens of the new District 3 are fortunate to be able to vote for Bob and to gain the benefit of his 11 years of experience as a county commissioner in the state of Michigan. Bob is hard-working, frugal, dedicated, understands government, listens to others’ points of view, is a true servant of the people, has the time and loves to do a thorough job and works well for the good of mankind and, more importantly, is honest. Bob is a rare find. We highly recommend you cast your vote for Robert Houtman Aug. 7. Richard and Gwendolyn Michel, Plainwell Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. Call 945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads The Hastings Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Bonnie Mattson • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 To the editor: As the Aug. 7 primary vote approaches I have been talking to friends and neighbors about why I am supporting Julie Nakfoor Pratt for prosecutor. Recently, I spoke with a gentleman who said he was supporting our current prosecutor because he is active in local organizations and seems to be a nice guy. You can be a nice guy and not necessarily be good at your job. Politicians tend to make themselves very active within their local communities by shaking hands, kissing babies, etc. I do not want a politician in the prosecutor’s office. I want someone who is going to uphold the law and seek out justice for victims. We have read too many stories that detail the lack of compassion and justice for victims of crime in Barry County. Victims of domestic violence and assault want answers from our prosecutor, not avoidance. Just imagine how you would feel if that victim was your wife, daughter, mother, son, or other family member. Recently, a local attorney did an investiga- tion of the prosecutor’s office and the compliance rate with filing deadlines. This attorney then filed a motion with the circuit court containing his stunning findings. The prosecuting attorney’s office for Barry County was not filing notices in a timely manner in many instances. In fact, Judge Amy McDowell sanctioned the prosecutor’s office and in her order she stated that the prosecutor, habitually violates Michigan law. As a result, it would appear that no one can receive justice in Barry County – not the victims or the accused. We also have read a lot about specific cases and alleged blunders that have been made by the prosecutor’s office. However, it is difficult to figure out actual statistics because Tom Evans has control over the numbers that are distributed to the public. One of my favorite quotes about statistics is, “An unsophisticated forecaster uses statistics as a drunken man uses lamp-posts - for support rather than for illumination.” If you read the statistics Tom Evans is using to promote himself, it appears that he is using Julie’s 10 months as the Barry New center brings endless possibilities Keep incumbent on county board To the editor: We have just returned from the open house at the Barry Community Enrichment Center in Hastings. As members of the local community and members of the Presbyterian church, we wish to congratulate everyone who envisioned what our former church building could be used for. It truly has been turned into a very useful building for the community and the county. Appreciation and thanks go to all who gave money, time, and labor and shared their talents to make this become what it is today. The possibilities are endless and to see what is planned for a theater in the former sanctuary is amazing. The citizens of the area will have many opportunities to use areas of this building for help and for their enrichment. Thanks again to all who have supported this and will continue to support this project. Dave and Jane Arnold, Hastings Linda Watson will find solutions To the editor: Change isn’t easy for most people, but change can be beneficial. Linda Watson, a life-time Hastings resident, would be a great asset to the Barry County Courthouse staff. Linda is well-qualified and has had much experience, as she is a licensed appraiser, licensed residential contractor, licensed real estate broker and a licensed realtor. She has many professional and trade affiliations, such as a member of the Barry County Board of Commissioners, Leadership Barry County, Barry County United Way Board, Hastings Airport Commission, Hastings Planning Commis-sion, Hastings City Council, Barry/Eaton MLS Committee, and Barry/Eaton Board of Realtors. She is a lady of integrity, has great work ethics and is a people person. She is very analytical and will find solutions to every situation. Please join me and vote for Linda Watson as the new register of deeds. Andi Schmidt/Curves Hastings Ted DeVries is our choice To the editor: For the past several years, the administration of Prairieville Township has been dramatically enhanced. A badly outdated computer system has been replaced. Fiscal accounting procedures produce exemplary audits. A much needed reassessment of all properties has now been completed fairly and competently. The current Board conducts meetings that are transparent and encourage input and participation by our residents. Ted DeVries has been a contributor to this turnaround. As assistant clerk, he has gained on-the-job experience learning the many complex duties and responsibilities carried out in the clerk’s office. Ted also eagerly embraced all training opportunities that became available to him through professional township organizations. So, this is a man who – on the day he takes office – is up to date with all current Township business and possesses the skills and competencies to make the transition in the clerk’s office a seamless one. In addition, we have found Ted DeVries to be approachable. This is a person who listens to all points of view to formulating a response. Finally, he has that old fashioned work ethic. Ted already has a reputation for working behind regular office hours and for attending meetings where his presence is not required. Some folks call that job dedication. Trained. Competent. Approachable, Dedicated. Please join us on August 7 and voted for Ted. DeVries. Mary Meagher & John Hoek, Delton To the editor: Residents of Barry, Hope, and Precinct 1 of Rutland townships comprise the newly formed county commission District 3. Bob Houtman is an incumbent candidate seeking the vote for commissioner from this new district. During his time as representative for Prairieville Township, we knew him as dedicated, capable, honest and the most levelheaded member of the commission in his han- County prosecutor versus her 20-plus years as a prosecutor (in Allegan and Barry counties). Julie has a proven record as a successful trial law attorney. It is been my privilege to work closely with Julie and her committee during this election. A few weeks ago, one of our committee members was verbally attacked by Tom Evans for her support of Julie. Politics aside, I do not want a playground bully as the chief law enforcement officer in my county. I have known Julie for over 20 years. She is a compassionate person who truly wants justice to prevail for everyone; the accused as well as the victim. Julie is a very honest person. You might not like what she has to say, however, she will say it anyway. She will restore justice in Barry County. I hope you will join me in voting for Julie Aug. 7. Kristen Cove, Middleville dling of many tough issues, The leadership that defines Bob is exceptional. So keep Bob working for your interests and those of Barry County by sending him back to the commission to continue to work hard for you as he has done for our township and district. Vote for Commissioner Bob Houtman in the Republican Primary Tuesday, Aug. 7. Ken and JoAnn Eddy, Prairieville Township Ballot initiative to ban fracking continues campaign The Committee to Ban Fracking in Michigan, a citizen-led ballot question group collecting signatures to amend the Michigan State Constitution to ban horizontal hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, will continue collecting signatures over the next four months for a 2014 ballot initiative. The committee has collected approximately 21,000 signatures. “We understood that our goal to collect the required number of signatures in only two months to get it on the ballot for the 2012 election was ambitious,” said LuAnne Kozma, campaign director. “But we also knew that the urgency of the frack attack on Michigan that people would act to circulate and sign the petition as they become aware of the issue and discover that their communities are about to be fracked.” The committee started with a small group of people and is growing exponentially, with hundreds new people volunteering to circulate petitions in the last few weeks than in the beginning weeks of the campaign, said Kozma. Petitions are available for signing in Middleville at Thornapple Floral and Gift Shop, Above and Beyond Hair Salon and Hart Animal Hospital, all businesses located on M-37. “As a grassroots movement of people building signature by signature and circulator by circulator, we are the largest, on-theground force in the state working to ban fracking,” she said. “Continuing the signature-gathering campaign into November in the new 180-day time frame will keep the ban-fracking issue before voters and candidates into this year’s campaign season.” The committee received approval of its petition format from the board of state canvassers in April. In addition to banning horizontal hydraulic fracturing, the proposed amendment would ban the storage of wastes from horizontal hydraulic fracturing, preventing Michigan from becoming a frack wasteland. Michigan has over 1,000 injection wells and more than 12,000 conventional gas and oil wells that could be converted for that purpose. Michigan is the only state in the nation where citizens are attempting to ban fracking by amendment to a state constitution. Vermont’s legislature acted on May 4 and with the governor’s approval, became the first state to ban fracking. Michigan’s citizen effort has the support of Vermont legislators Tony Klein and Peter Peltz who sponsored the Vermont ban bill. “It was clear in Vermont the dangers of fracking to our natural resources,” said Klein. “In Vermont, our natural resources are our number one priority, so it was not a difficult thing to prohibit fracking forever. It passed overwhelmingly. We encourage all states, when they have the chance to do so, to ban this dangerous technique.” The State of Michigan auctioned off mineral rights in 23 Michigan counties on May 8 in Lansing, including the rights under the 23,000-plus-acre Yankee Springs State Recreation Area and highly populated areas in Oakland County. Residents attempting to save their communities attended the auction, registered as bidders and tried, but failed, to purchase the mineral rights to the areas around Yankee Springs. Greater awareness of the sale of state-owned land led people in Barry County to organize, hold meetings and join the amendment initiative campaign. The campaign website is http://letsbanfracking.org. CIVIL WAR MUSTER REENACTMENT SATURDAY, JULY 21st 9AM TO 10PM SUNDAY, JULY 22nd 9AM TO 4:00PM CHARLTON PARK - HASTINGS, MI PUBLIC ADMISSION – Adults $5 Children; $3 age 4-12 Running Tacticals, Parlor Games, Fashion Show, Artillery & Cavalry Demonstrations, Battles Both Days (North vs South), Night Cannon Firing, and much more. UPCOMING EVENTS: County Wide Yard Sale & Antique Outboard Motor Show - July 28th Great Lakes Long Bow Invitational - August 10th, 11th & 12th August Fest (Yard Sale, Swap Meet & Antique Car Show)‚ August 18th Village, Museum & Recreation Area 2545 S. Charlton Park Rd., Hastings, MI 49058-8102 Ph: 269-945-3775 Fax: 269-945-0390 www.CharltonPark.org 02709527 �Page 6 — Thursday, July 19, 2012 — The Hastings Banner See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. Area Obituaries J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits Worship Together… Richard Merle Count Thomas Norman Bortak Charles Franklin Hoffman (Thumper) 77569421 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 . ORANGEVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH 6921 Marsh Rd., 2 miles south of Gun Lake, Plainwell. Phone 269664-4377. OrangevilleBaptist.org. Pastors Dan Bowman and Adam Parmenter. Sundays - 9:45-10:45 a.m. Sunday school classes for age 2 through adults; 11 a.m. Summer messages: “God’s Ten Words For a Vital Spiritual Life” (The Ten Commandments); 5:30 p.m. Teen Word of Life Club; 6 p.m. “Guard the Gospel” A study of 2 Timothy. Wednesdays - 7 p.m. prayer; 8:30 p.m. Men’s Bible Study. MondayFriday - July 9-13 - 9:30 a.m.-noon, Vacation Bible School, age 5-7th grade with Uncle Al Torres - RBM Minstries. Sunday, July 15 - Guest speaker, Dr. Eldon Stevens. Sunday, August 19 - Summer concert. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Rev. Ryan Wieland. Sundays - 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Service; Sunday School and Nursery available during both services (Summer Schedule - Adult Sunday School: 9 a.m., Worship & Children’s Programs 10 a.m.) Youth Group, Covenant Prayer, Choir, Chimes, Praise Band, Quilting Group, Community Breakfasts and more! Call the church office at (269) 721-8077 (M/W/F 9 a.m.-12 p.m.), e-mail office@mei.net or visit www.countrychapelumc.org <http://www.countrychapelumc.org/> for more information SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 9:15 Contemporary Worship, 10:30 a.m. Refreshments, 11 a.m. Traditional Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Youth Pastor, Eric Gillespie. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. for children and youth, and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Junior & Senior High Youth Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Mid-Week Pioneers and adult classes return in September. Thursday: Senior Adult Bible Study at 10 a.m. and lunch at Wendy’s, 11:30 a.m. Vacation Bible School: Wed. & Thurs., July 25 & 26, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Sunday, July 22 - Worship Service at 8 and 10 a.m. July 22 - Men’s Alcoholics Anonymous 7 p.m. July 23 - Spiritual Alcoholics Anonymous 7:30 p.m. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 9452645, fax 269-945-2698. Pastor Amy Luckey. http://www.discover-grace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot.com. Friday - 9 a.m. Golfer’s Group Meets; 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday 8 a.m. FPC Golf Outing HCC; 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Sunday - 12 p.m. Summer Youth Group Meeting Algonquin Lake. Monday - 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Tuesday - 6:30 p.m. Softball - Cheney Field. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Lauer Family Funeral Homes 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings Fiberglass Products 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 MIDDLEVILLE, MI - Richard Merle Count (known by his friends as Dick), age 79, of Middleville, departed from his earthly home on Tuesday, July 10, 2012. He was born March 15, 1933 to Merle and Agnes (Foote) Count. In his early childhood, he lived in Delton, moving to Clarksville, around 1943. In 1951, he graduated from Saranac High School. He took up residence in Yankee Springs where he lived his entire adult life. He was married to Patricia Willson and had two daughters, Debra (Bernard) Nagel and Rebecca (Phillip) Wenger. He dedicated 33 years of service to the Kroger and A & P Food Stores before his retirement in l983. He then turned his attention to ferrier's school where he became licensed and dedicated the next 14 years of his life working as a blacksmith and farrier. He officially retired from employment in March of 1998. Throughout his life, Richard enjoyed his family, friends, horses, gardening and dogs. In retirement, he enjoyed sewing, embroidery and quilting, creating many gifts for others. As a labor of love, he made each of his family members a quilt in the last two years of his life. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, encouraging mischief and laughter in all of their endeavors. Richard is survived by his daughters; grandchildren, John and Jason (Lisa) Nagel, Shanda (Matt) Bender, Brooke (Tom) Holmes, Tyler (Stephanie) Wenger, Tessa Wenger; adopted grandson, Greg Lopus; and seven great grandchildren. He is also survived by his three sisters, Jean (Charlie) Cook, Janet Erb, Judy Count, and sister-inlaw, Carolyn Count. Those who departed before him include his parents; brother, Lyle Count; grandson, Travis Wenger; and brother-in-law, Carl Erb. In celebration of Richard’s life, a service was held at the Middleville United Methodist Church on Saturday, July 14, 2012. A horse drawn procession took Richard to his final resting place at Coman Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Travis Wenger Memorial Scholarship Fund in care of Barry Community Foundation, 629 West State Street, Hastings, MI 49508. Arrangements made by Beeler-Gores Funeral Home in Middleville. Please visit www.beelergoresfuneral.com to view Richard's memory page and sign his online register book. Dec. 9, 1948-Dec. 14, 2011 - Tom Bortak was born in Detroit, Dec. 9, 1948, the fourth child of Anne and Michael C. Bortak. At age two, the family moved to Hastings, where Tom grew up in a pleasant small town. He played varsity basketball until a knee injury. He was drafted immediately after high school and served his country honorably in the Army in Germany and Vietnam while his brother served in Fort Dix. After Vietnam, he bought a VW and roamed the western U.S. and spent a summer working in Boise, ID and hiking in the Sawtooths. Eventually he returned to Michigan, graduating from Michigan State University with a degree in civil engineering. He worked in material testing in Michigan but longed to return to the West. He took a job with the Bureau of Interior inspecting Grand Coulee then Parker Dam. In the 80s he worked on the Central Arizona project bringing Colorado water to central Arizona becoming one of the top engineers in the project. When the project was completed he transferred to the Dept. of Interior's Denver office where he became a specialist in protective coatings and ran the initial lab. He took a great deal of pride in his organization and time management. His 30 year career ended abruptly when he suffered a ruptured aortic abdominal aneurysm in May 2007. Tom enjoyed his work above all. He enjoyed reading, historic, military and diplomatic books, golf, football, hockey and traveling. His health was fragile but stable for the past two years. Being a bachelor, Tom came to Boise, ID as his health issues required close family. He shared his life for a year with his niece Amanda; her daughter Genevieve and her dog Yukon as he recovered. Then he was able to live independently for another year and a half. He died peacefully at a local hospital. His parents and older brother, Michael J. preceded him in death. He is survived by two sisters, Carole Lamet (Daniel) of Boise and Natalie Wickham (Ronald) of Foster City, CA; nieces, Julia Willis, Amanda Lamet, Karen Wickham and nephews Daniel (Verna) Lamet V; Nick Lamet; David Wickham and John Michael (Amanda) Bortak. A joint memorial mass was said for Tom Bortak and Anne Bortak Saturday, January 14, 2012 at Sacred Heart Church (Latah & Cassia). In lieu of flowers, donations are welcome to the Wounded Warrior’s Project (www.woundedwarriorproject.org). Pam S. Patten HASTINGS, MI - Pam S. Patten, age 60, of Hastings, passed away Tuesday, July 10, 2012. She was born April 8, 1952, at Pennock Hospital in Hastings, to Robert and Doreen Sherman. She attended and graduated from Maple Valley High School in 1970. She also graduated from Wright Beauty Academy in 1972, followed by graduating at the top of her class as a corrections officer from the Lansing Criminal Justice Program. She recently retired from Hospital Purchasing services after 27 years. She married Jerry Patten on April 13, 1990. She was very talented and enjoyed making many different crafts for those she loved. Her true love was taking pictures of others. She could always be seen with a camera in her hand, often times making her loved ones repose to "do that again." She was loved by many, had a truly kind soul, and would help anyone in need. Pam was preceded in death by her father in 1965, and many other family and friends. She is survived by daughter and son, Kori and Marc Zimmerman of Hastings; mother, Doreen Sherman of Nashville; sister, Linda and George James of Hastings; sister, Darla and Tom Cady of Nashville; niece, Linsey and Toni Jacinto of Hastings; niece, Casey and Matt Gergen of Hastings; and nephew Robert Cady of Nashville. Also, special friends, Sharon Zimmerman and Judy Jacinto along with many other family and friends. Memorial contributions can be made to the West Michigan Down Syndrome Association or the Barry County Humane Society. Funeral services were held on Friday, July 13, 2012 at the Girrbach Funeral Home. There was a luncheon immediately following the funeral at the Nashville VFW. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. Please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message to the family. NASHVILLE, MI- Charles Franklin Hoffman (Thumper), age 46, of Nashville, passed away July 16, 2012 at his residence. He was born September 6, 1965, the son of the Dorrance and Dorothy (Leonard) Hoffman. Chuck attended Hastings High School, receiving his GED in 1989. He loved music and started off playing music with his family. Chuck worked for Stephenson and Lawyer in Grand Rapids and then Nelson Metal Products. He then went to a truck driving trade school. Chuck worked for Consumers Concrete, Wayland Concrete and Hills Pet Nutrition. Chuck and Brenda were married on April 21, 1990. Together they shared the love of riding Harley motorcycles. Chuck loved working on cars, riding motorcycles and music. He enjoyed time spent with friends and family. First and foremost his family and grandson always came first. Chuck was preceded in death by his parents, Dorrance Hoffman, Sr. and Dorothy (Leonard) Hoffman. He is survived by his wife, Brenda Hoffman of Nashville; daughter, Dacia (Caleb) of Sunfield; sons, Danny (Tiffany) of Hastings, Creedence (Alicia) of Nashville; grandson, Brody; brother, Dorrance L. (Mary) Hoffman II and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Memorial contributions may be made to the family of Chuck Hoffman to help cover final expenses (c/o Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc.). Visitation will be held Friday, July 20, 2012 from 12 until 2 p.m. at the Girrbach Funeral Home, 328 S. Broadway, Hastings. A memorial service will follow visitation, beginning at 2 p.m. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message for the family. Donald Wayne Huskin B A T T L E CREEK, MI Donald Wayne Huskin, age 80, of Battle Creek, passed away Tuesday, June 26, 2012 at Hope Hospice in Fort Myers, FL. He was born November 16, 1931 in Battle Creek, the son of James Pleasant and Mildred (Snyder) Huskin. He married Cathy (Lewis) Waller on July 4, 1993 on Gull Lake. Don served in the United States Air Force as an Airman 3rd Class. He retired from General Foods after 41 years of service. He was a 32 degree Mason with the Shriner’s, member of the American Legion and Bayside Men's Club and Yacht Club. He loved boating and hunting. Don enjoyed building boats, eight total, with the last one being Lady Gull Diva where he was the captain. He is survived by his wife, Cathy Huskin; children, Jan (Scott) Richard, Don (Annette) Huskin, and Angie (Chad) Dockter; sister, Margaret Quinn; eight grandchildren; three great grandchildren; former wife, Betty Barney; treasured friend, Charlie Grasser; and his best canine daughter, Millie. He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Lyn Huskin; and siblings, Irene Packham and Jim Huskin. Visitation will be held Monday, July 23, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Bachman Hebble Funeral Service. Funeral services will be held Monday, July 23, 2012 at 12 p.m. at the Bachman Hebble Funeral Service with Pastor James Codde officiating. Burial will be at the Fort Custer National Cemetery in Augusta. Memorial tributes may be made to the Humane Society or Hope Hospice. Arrangements by the Bachman Hebble Funeral Service, a member by invitation Selected Independent Funeral Homes. (269)965-5145 www.bachmanhebble.com. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, July 19, 2012 — Page 7 Anne Luczka Bortak – April 20, 1914 - Dec. 7, 2011 Call 945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads Thelma Maude (Kidder) Treat GET MORE NEWS! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. Marriage Licenses Bradley Dale Cole, Hastings and Heather Nicole Soto, Hastings. Colby James Wilcox, Hastings and Mercede Marie Dennis, Nashville. Adam Robert Case, Battle Creek and Paige Christine Pumford, Hastings. Troy Steven Duffy, Nashville and Shasta Diane Stump, Battle Creek. Richard Norman Edsall, Middleville and Christina Lin Kriekaard, Middleville. Scott Christopher Mueller, Hastings and Amy Jo Fringer, Howell. Leo Jon Lanning Jr., Hastings and Christine Marie Christiansen, Hastings. Newborn Babies Fischer David Haight, born at Metro Health Hospital on June 22, 2012 at 7:12 p.m. to Brad and Nickie (Greenfield) Haight of Hastings. Weighing 9 lbs. 2 ozs. and 22 inches long. ***** Brynn Nacole, born at Pennock Hospital on June 29, 2012 at 12:29 a.m. to Jordan Greenhoe and Scott Hostetler of Clarksville. Weighing 7 lbs. 14 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Jayliana Kaye, born at Pennock Hospital on July 3, 2012 at 1:53 a.m. to Brittany Mitchell and Jason Mitchell of Battle Creek. Weighing 7 lbs. 15 ozs. and 19 1/2 inches long. ***** Brennan Scott, born at Pennock Hospital on July 2, 2012 at 7:10 a.m. to Anastasia and Scott Denton of Hastings. Weighing 8 lbs. 3 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Taylor Elizabeth, born at Pennock Hospital on July 1, 2012 at 11:03 p.m. to Travis and Sarah Buehler of Middleville. Weighing 8 lbs. 9 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Sophia Marie, born at Pennock Hospital on July 2, 2012 at 7 p.m. to Nicole Hertel and Gary Spicer of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 14 ozs. and 20 inches long. TWO BROTHERS AND A TENT For All Your Tent Rental Needs Tables and chairs available. 269-967-8241 Call: Dan McKinney 269-838-7057 or Tom McKinney 269-838-3842 HASTINGS, MI - Thelma Maude (Kidder) Treat of Hastings, passed away July 13, 2012 at Thornapple Manor with her family by her side. She was 86 years old. Thelma was born April 13, 1926 in the Freeport area. Thelma had congestive heart failure and diabetes for many years. Thelma’s hurt is gone, she is in peace now. She married Clifford Treat, Sr. on December 13, 1941. They were married for 61 years. Thelma was preceded in death by her husband, Clifford Treat Sr.; son, Donald Treat; grandson, Tim Benedic; seven sisters, Bell Joy, Virginia Harrett, Beulah Potter, Leatha Wilkens, Mable Martz, Evelyn McNaughton, Wynette Jenson; six brothers, George Kidder, William Kidder (twins), Warren Kidder, Bryron Kidder Jay Kidder, and Harry Kidder. Thelma is survived by a son, Clifford C. Treat Jr. of Hastings; a daughter, Susan Sines of Hastings; grandsons, Jeff Bates and Kathy of Hastings, Bob Sines and Teresa of Hastings, Breck Sines; granddaughter, Heather Moral of California and many great grandchildren; sister, Lucy Kracher of Freeport; two brothers, Kelly Kidder of Lowell, Herman and Fedricia Kidder of Maine and many nieces and nephews. Thelma was the daughter of the late Warren and Nellie (Tewxbury) Kidder. She was one of 17 children. She attended school at Woodschool House. Thelma was a caring and loving mother and wife. She enjoyed helping and doing things for her family. She worked eight years at Middleville Engineering, belonged to the VFW in Freeport, and the Moose in Hastings. Thelma enjoyed yard sales, she enjoyed buying things for other, mushrooming, and reading. She loved her yard and flowers. A special thank you to all the special people at Thornapple Manor, Tendercare, Dr. Wildern, Dr. Merriman, Barry Community Hospice and Pennock Hospital. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of one’s choice. A visitation and funeral service was held Tuesday, July 17, 2012 at the Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. Pastor Roger Claypool officiated the service. Interment followed the service at Irving Township Cemetery. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message to the family. 77566915 Immediate Openings RN/LPN PRIVATE DUTY Nashville, Marshall, Springport, Jackson 06786820 SARASOTA, FL - Joan Nadene Baulch of Sarasota, FL passed away on June 29, 2012. Joan was born in Ann Arbor on February 23, 1930, the only child of Bernard and Nellie McPharlin of Hastings. She grew up in Hastings before marrying George Baulch, also of Hastings. She settled with him in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, where she and her husband worked for the Arabian American Oil Company, raised a small family, and traveled widely. In 1986 she moved to Sarasota, FL, where she resided until succumbing to cancer. Her life was marked by a love of wildlife and nature, a passion for travel and learning, and most of all her dedication to her family. She is survived by her son, Garth Baulch; daughter-in-law, Evangeline Baulch; and granddaughters, Lydia and Madeline Baulch. Joan’s life will be celebrated at a memorial service at the First Presbyterian Church of Hastings, 405 North M-37 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058 at 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 21, 2012. Pastor Jeff Garrison will officiate. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s Research Foundation (One Intrepid Square, West 46th St. and 12th Ave., New York, NY 10036; www.alzinfo.org/donate). HASTINGS, MI - Judy Marie Martinez, age 62, of Hastings passed away on July 10, 2012 at Lifespan Hospice in Battle Creek. She was born March 14, 1950, in Napoleon, Ohio, the daughter of Santos Martinez Sr. and Guadalupe (Melchor) DeLaCerda. Judy attended Hamler High School in Hamler, Ohio, graduating in 1968. She worked for ten years as a secretary/receptionist for Barry County Mental Health, retiring in May, 2012. Judy enjoyed quilting and knitting in her spare time. She was preceded in death by her mother and father. Judy is survived by John M. Bycroft, her companion of 28 years; her brothers, Eliseo Martinez or Waterville, Ohio; Benito (Alice) Martinez of Maumee, Ohio; Santos (Gloria) Martinez Jr. of Bradner, Ohio; and Frankie (Rachel) Martinez of Katy, Texas; and her sisters: Feliz (Jack) Rodeheaver of Galion, Ohio; Profiria (Manuel) Leal of Fostoria, Ohio; Pauline Gann of Cleveland, Ohio; and Maria C. Martinez of Fostoria, Ohio; as well as 18 nephews and nieces and 13 great nephews and nieces. A funeral mass was held Saturday, July 14, 2012 at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, 805 S. Jefferson Street in Hastings. In lieu of flowers the family requests the following memorial contributions: American Cancer Society, Great Lakes Division, Inc., Attn: Memorial and Tribute Gifts, 1755 Abbey Road, East Lansing, MI 48823. Barry Community Hospice, 450 Meadow Run, Suite 200, Hastings, MI 49058. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, please visit our website at www.girrbach funeralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message to the family. Trach / Vent Experience Preferred recruiter@optimalstaffing.com BARBECUE & AUCTION Or Fax to: 517-394-7716 Benefit for the Barry County Amish School Please Send Resume to: 77569490 Friday, July 20, 2012 ® 8705 Broadway Rd., Hastings Take M-37, turn west on Dowling Rd & go 1.6 miles. Turn north on Broadway Rd & go 0.3 miles to the Auction The Barbecue starts at 4:00pm Auction starts at 5:30pm BAKE SALE New Hipo Lantern; New Kerosene Lantern; Mini Pony Mare (Broke for Kids); Handcrafted Wood Products; Shooting Accessories; Horseshoe Game; Fresh Produce; 8' Folding Table; Lumber; New Hand Tools; New Daisy BB Guns; Camp Grills; Wooden Chain Saw Carvings; New Water Tanks; Children’s Tricycle & Trailer; New Hickory Rocker; Quan. of New Tack; Wooden Benches; 4x4 Sand Box w/Roof; Hay 1st & 2nd Cutting; New Horseshoes; Rugs; Scooter; Maple Syrup; Ornamental Buggy Wheels. PARTIAL LISTING - MORE TO COME 77564841 Joan Nadene Baulch enjoying great grandchildren. She formed a wonderful relationship with Helen Taylor who took her on outings. She had a dog to pet and a cat to ward off with her cane. She enjoyed hours watching birds in the garden. She spent the last 15 months of her life at Heritage Assisted Living with wonderful, caring staff who made her last months loving and comfortable. Her husband Michael C. and son Michael J., sisters Natalie, Helen and Jenny preceded her in death. She died a week before her son, Thomas Bortak. She is survived by daughters, Carole (Daniel) Lamet and Natalie (Ron) Wickham; granddaughters, Amanda Lamet, Julia Willis and Karen Wickham and grandsons Daniel (Verna) Lamet V, Nick Lamet, David Wickham and John Michael (Amanda) Bortak and great grandchildren, Sarah, Jessica, Daniel, Genevieve, Layla and newly arrived Rhyan. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to St. Vincent De Paul, (13217 W. Overland Rd., Boise, ID 83705) or the Learning Lab (3081 E. 36th St., Garden City, 837174). A memorial mass was held January 14, 2012 at Sacred Heart, Latah and Cassia. NASHVILLE, MI Jeffrey L. Noteboom, age 58, of Nashville, passed away unexpectedly Thursday, July 12, 2012 at his home. Jeffrey was born in Battle Creek, on May 24, 1954, the son of Larry Noteboom and Joyce (Gripe) White. He was raised in the Delton area and attended Delton Schools. In 1975, he was married to Debbie Hicks; together they had three children who survive. Jeffrey worked in the building trades owning and operating Noteboom Concrete & Masonry for over 20 years before retiring in 2006. He enjoyed being outside hunting, fishing, and camping with his family at Mud Lake Campground and playing with his dog Harley. Spending time with his beloved grandchildren was always something Jeffrey looked forward too. He also loved music, and especially enjoyed playing the banjo and his harmonica. Jeffrey is survived by his beloved children, daughter, Rebecca Noteboom-Titus; sons Larry and Jacob Noteboom; his parents, Joyce and Clare White, and Larry Noteboom; his beloved grandchildren, Kodee Wolfe, Hailee Titus, Cyleigh Noteboom, Hannah Titus, Danyella Noteboom-Holden; nephews and niece, Branden and Amy Roscoe, and Tyler Noteboom. He was preceded in death by his brother, David Noteboom and Sherry (Noteboom) Roscoe. The family will receive visitors on Saturday July 21, 2012 from 4-6 p.m. at the Daniels Funeral Home in Nashville. Funeral services were held privately. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions be made to either Hickory Corners Bible Church, Grace Community Church in Nashville, or Urbandale Baptist Church. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Daniels Funeral Home in Nashville. Judy Marie Martinez 77568328 Anne slipped the bonds of this earth at age 97 following a long decline. She had a strong faith that guided her. Her sense of humor became prominent in her older years. Born in Hamtramck, to Mary and John Luczka, she was the first child baptized in the new Catholic church of the community. Her older sister, Natalie, 7 years older, had been born near Lvov, Ukraine. Two other sisters followed in the next four years, Helen and Jenny. Her neighborhood was composed of other immigrant families attracted by the new industry of automobiles. She described herself as multi-lingual in Ukrainian, German and Polish as a child. “I never knew we were poor because everyone else in the neighborhood lived as we did.” Her mother had a large backyard garden, peach tree and chickens and her father worked for Ford Motor Company. She attended Detroit schools through high school. As the Depression worsened and her father was laid off, all four sisters worked at any job they could find. Anne worked as a taxidancer for a few days, then as a housekeeper and nanny. Later she worked for Burroughs Adding Machine Company for several years. She related these years as some of her happiest and maintained friendships from these days well into her 80s. She met Michael Bortak, also the first-born in America. His parents emigrated from the Slovakian mountains. He became a mechanical engineer through General Motors training. They married August 6, 1938. Four children were born 1942-1948. They were separated by his involvement on the Manhattan project and Oakridge during the war years. In 1950, they moved to Hastings, and Michael worked in a manufacturing plant supporting the automotive industry, tool and die. Anne was skilled at the homemaking arts of sewing, cooking, canning and tutoring her children. As her family grew, she had more time to read and books and crossword puzzles became her passion. She also had a large music collection most of her life but became so hard of hearing that music passed out of her later years. In her 40s, she became an avid golfer, proud of two hole-in-ones and other trophies. After her husband had a heart attack and several strokes over many years, he became bedridden. Anne nursed him at home for seven years. She stayed in Michigan until 1988 until shoveling the snow overwhelmed her. She followed her sister Helen to Sun City, AZ that year. She loved the heat, found new outlets in her Catholic community and lived there until 2006 when she needed more support. Living in Boise, ID she grew to enjoy the company of her daughter and her family, getting to know her grandchildren as adults, Jeffrey L. Noteboom For info or to donate quality items, phone Paul at (269) 721-4353 or John Paul at (517) 852-0237 77569441 �Page 8 — Thursday, July 19, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of by Elaine Garlock The Ionia Free Fair starts July 19 and runs through July 28. A place to visit is the antique village in the floral building on the banks of the Grand River. Ben and Karen Merchant are in charge. For added measure, they tend the floral exhibits. They have scheduled an activity for each evening, plus a full schedule the rest of the time. Tuesday afternoon will include a reception for rural school teachers and students, past and present. An educational sorority within the county will have all of its accumulation of information from the dozens of rural schools on display. There will be a display of antique vehicles outside. Retired Lakewood educator Ben Merchant will be the man in charge. This is a cool place to sit and enjoy the scenery and the other visitors. Saturday, July 28, Depot Day returns to the Lake Odessa museum complex. This year, the honorees on stage will be members of the Lions Club, past and present. The Janie Rodriguez award will be given by the village Marti-Heckman Nicole Marti and Terry Heckman are happy to announce their engagement. Nicole is a 1994 graduate of Hastings High School and is employed at Pennock Health Services as the Lifeline Coordinator. Terry is a 1992 graduate of Kalamazoo Central and is the general manager at Great Lakes Chemical in Grand Rapids. The couple will wed in Montego Bay, Jamaica in July 2012. The couple will reside in Middleville. president. Tickets for a raffle will be sold only on Saturday. The top prize is cash. Dancers and singers will entertain, and food will be available to purchase. Anyone traveling on Cemetery Road, Eaton Highway, Woodland Road should take in the gorgeous flowers on the Wayne Hazel property, possibly five acres on the north side of Woodland Road and also the much larger tract of the same floral display on the south side. According to a neighbor, this is a result of a State of Michigan beautification project in which the homeowner assigns the use of the property to the state. In exchange, the state provides soil preparation, seeds and the planting. Everyone who passes by reaps the benefit. The flowers extend south from the road on the property line, which is near the Ron Enz land. The majority of blossoms are the typical yellow of rudbeckia with intermittent lavendar blossoms. It is even worth a drive to see them as a destination. It is near Faith Bible Church and bit east around the corner. A memorial service was held on Saturday afternoon for Iris Clum of Eagle Point who died in Arizona in the spring. She had traveled extensively for several decades, starting with a trip to Mammoth Cave with primitive accommodations and progressing to plane and boat travel to far-flung places. Driving with a wide-brimmed hat in a convertible with the top down was great fun for this lady who had made her mark selling real estate and raising her three children, Nancy, Terri and Jack, with husband, Laverne. The Lake Odessa Arts Commission has arranged a summer series of music events at the village park on Fourth Avenue. Each Thursday evening at 7 p.m., the sounds of Rock the Port are heard with a different band each week. Allen and Mary (Hunt) Hamp of Leslie have been here in recent days to assist his mother. Visiting the local cemetery is almost a daily chore for those who try to keep the flowers in family urns alive and growing. This summer has almost convinced many that the best route to go is to use artificial bouquets. The 57th Alethian chicken barbecue dinner Friday was another success, with diners a plenty. A party at Morrison Lake was glad to buy all the leftover beans, slaw, potato salad and rolls, along with chicken for all the guests – big entertaining with no work. The Thursday night soup suppers at Central United Methodist Church are back on schedule after organizer Leona Rayner and husband Charles Jr. were in Hawaii for the wedding of his daughter. The respite fare and child care continued during the two weeks’ absence of meals. Daily vacation Bible school comes to Central United Methodist Church next week with classes starting Sunday, July 22, and continuing through Thursday, July 26. Hours are 6 to 8:30 p.m. Public Land Auction City of Hastings REQUEST FOR BIDS Sale of 1995 Ford F-800 Dump Truck The City of Hastings will accept bids for the sale of one (1) 1995 Ford F-800 Dump Truck. This vehicle will be sold as is, without warranty of any kind, and has approximately 71,000 miles on it. Arrangements to view this vehicle can be made by calling 945-2468 weekdays between the hours of 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM. The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in any bid, and to award the bid in a manner that the City deems to be in its best interest, price and other factors considered. Bids will be received at the office of the Hastings City Clerk/Treasurer, 201 East State Street, Hastings, MI 49058 until 9:15 AM on Tuesday, August 7, 2012 at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. The winning bid, if any, will be approved at the City Council meeting on August 13, 2012. Winning bidder must be prepared to take possession with certified funds between August 14 and August 17, 2012. No formal bidding forms or documents are required, but all bids must be in writing and sealed. All sealed bids must be clearly marked on the outside of the bid package as follows: “SEALED BID – 1995 Ford F-800 Dump Truck”. Thomas E. Emery City Clerk/Treasurer 77569457 07604634 The following County Treasurers will be offering tax-reverted real estate at public Auction on August 1st, 2012: Barry & Ionia. The Auction will be held at The Barry County Commission on Aging, 320 West Woodlawn, Hastings, MI 49058. Registration will begin at 11:00am, Auction will begin at 12:00pm. Online bidding will be available via www.tax-sale.info. For more information or for a list of the properties being sold, visit our website at www.tax-sale.info or call 1-800-259-7470. Sale listings are also available at your local County Treasurers Office. 77568876 EDWARD JONES Are you a ‘hands-on’ investor? The investment world can be complex — so you may not want to navigate it alone. But when it comes to getting professional advice, you certainly have an abundance of choices. How can you know which approach is right for you? The answer depends, to a large extent, on how you choose to work with a qualified financial advisor — someone with the training and experience to help you work toward your financial goals. When you work with a financial advisor, he or she will analyze your financial situation — your income, current assets, family status and short- and long-term investment goals, such as helping pay for your children’s (or grandchildren’s) college education and attaining a comfortable retirement. You can choose different ways of working with a financial advisor — and a deciding factor may be how “hands on” you want to be with your investment strategy. To illustrate this concept, let’s look at two common ways investors interact with financial advisors: • Taking recommendations and making choices — After evaluating your financial situation, goals, risk tolerance and time horizon, your financial advisor can recommend appropriate investments. Over time, your financial advisor will communicate with you regularly to keep track of changes in your life and to suggest any changes you may need to make in your portfolio. Of course, you have the final say in accepting or rejecting these recommendations, which is why this method is considered a hands-on way to invest. HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, July 19 — Pizza and Pages discusses Fahrenheit 451, 3:45 to 5 p.m.; Movie Memories goes fishing with “Mad about Men,” 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, July 20 — preschool story time settles down for some “sweet dreams,” 10:30 to 11 a.m. Monday, July 23 — “Dream Big, Read” summer reading program continues; computer class tackles “Where’s my stuff?” 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 24 — toddler story time flies with the owls, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.; open chess club, 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, July 25 — summer reading learns all about dog obedience with 4-H, 2 to 3 p.m. Call the Hastings Public Library for more information, 269-945-4263. THE ORANGEVILLE TRANSFER STATION WILL BE CLOSED AUGUST 18, 2012 FOR ORANGEVILLE DAYS. TRANSFER STATION WILL BE OPEN ON AUGUST 25, 2012. CITY OF HASTINGS REQUEST FOR BIDS The City of Hastings is soliciting bids for the provision of one 2013 model 41000 GVW Work Truck for use by the Department of Public Services. Specifications are available from the Office of the City Clerk. The City reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in the bid proposals, and to award the bid as deemed to be in the City’s best interest, price and other factors considered. Bids shall be clearly marked on the outside of the submittal package – “2013 Work Truck”. Bids will be received at the Office of the City Clerk/Treasurer, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 until 9:00 AM on Tuesday, August 7, 2012 at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. Tim Girrbach Director of Public Services • Investing through a managed account — In this situation, your financial advisor will help you create, implement and refine your long-term financial strategy, but the money managers will make the daily investment decisions, relying on a variety of criteria pertaining to your situation. For example, if your portfolio has become overweighted in a specific asset class, such as stocks or bonds, and is no longer aligned with your goals, it may automatically be brought back into balance. So which method of investing is better for you? There’s really no one right answer for everyone. If you’re the sort of person who likes to make all your own decisions, then you might be better off following the handson approach with your financial advisor. On the other hand, if you are particularly busy and just don’t feel you have the time to be actively involved with day-to-day investment decisions, you might want to consider a managed account. In any case, you’ll want to be comfortable with the method of investing that you’ve chosen. So do your homework beforehand. Whether you’re interested in a hands-on relationship or a hands-off approach, you still need to interview several financial advisors to find one who has worked with people in your situation and who seems genuinely interested in helping you. During these interviews, make sure you understand everything related to working with a financial advisor — the fees involved, the way decisions will be communicated to you if you choose a managed account, and so on. Deciding how you want to invest is your first step in working toward your financial goals — so make the choice that’s right for you. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 35.81 +.38 AT&T 35.82 +.38 BP PLC 41.69 +2.04 CMS Energy Corp 24.42 +.72 Coca-Cola Co 77.69 -.29 Eaton 38.37 +.62 Family Dollar Stores 68.39 -1.43 Fifth Third Bancorp 13.92 +.81 Flowserve CP 110.99 -1.56 Ford Motor Co. 9.34 -.01 General Mills 38.85 +.20 General Motors 19.60 -.20 Intel Corp. 25.38 -.18 Kellogg Co. 48.38 -.60 McDonald’s Corp 91.89 +1.64 Pfizer Inc. 23.62 +1.18 Ralcorp 60.87 -6.18 Sears Holding 53.81 -3.83 Spartan Motors 5.33 -.02 Spartan Stores 18.10 -.35 Stryker 53.72 +.66 TCF Financial 11.55 +.42 Walmart Stores 73.10 +.99 Gold $1583.05 +14.87 Silver $27.32 +.48 Dow Jones Average 12,805 +152 Volume on NYSE 655M -28M What a drag by Dr. E. Kirsten Peters I swim laps at noon several times a week. I enjoy the water, and the gentle exercise is good for my aging joints. Like other old ladies in the pool, I’m no speed demon. Even a bucketful of performance-enhancing drugs would not make me slice through the water quickly. But like all the lap swimmers I know, slow or fast, I take an interest in Michael Phelps and the other American swimmers soon to compete in London in the 2012 Summer Olympics. Phelps is famous for the eight gold medals he won during the 2008 Olympics in Beijing. Because he accomplishes so much, it’s natural to look for special explanations as to why he has dominated his sport. Focusing on some of his physical attributes doesn’t, of course, take anything away from the training to which he devotes himself as he prepares for competition. But it may well be that he has some natural advantages that help make him a superb swimmer. Phelps is not a little fellow. He stands 6 foot, 4 inches. He has broad shoulders, and his arms measure 80 inches from fingertip to fingertip — a length greater than his height. That extra-wide wingspan is an advantage in swimming, a sport where much depends on arm strength and power. Phelps also has size 14 feet, giving him natural flippers that complement his arm movement with a strong kick. Recently, the Science 360 website had a story on the basic challenge all swimmers face: the drag that acts to slow a person’s movement through the water. Thrust is the force that pushes a swimmer forward, while drag opposes that movement. For those of us who don’t swim quickly, drag isn’t really such a problem (gasping for breath is my main challenge in the pool). But for elite swimmers, managing drag is one of the keys to winning races. Folks like Phelps contend with three kinds of drag. First is frictional drag. The water immediately next to Phelps’ body moves with him in the forward direction, setting up frictional conflict with the water a bit farther from him that isn’t moving like that. Second is what’s called pressure drag. In front of Phelps’ head is a high-pressure zone created by his movement, while around his feet the water is at relatively low pressure. The differences in pressure oppose Phelps’ movement through the water. Finally, wave drag refers to the little “bow wave” that forms in front of a fast swimmer’s head. To move forward, a swimmer must move up and through that constant waveform. Elite swimming is all about fine-tuning body movement to minimize drag and maximize thrust. Just as engineers design planes and sports cars to slice through the air quickly and easily, coaches try to help swimmers master the basics of fluid dynamics to zip from one end of the pool to the other. I’ll be holding my breath for Phelps and the other American swimmers, hoping they can bring home a passel of Olympic medals. Dr. E. Kirsten Peters, a native of the rural Northwest, was trained as a geologist at Princeton and Harvard universities. Follow her online at rockdoc.wsu.edu and on Twitter @RockDocWSU. This column is a service of the College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences at Washington State University. Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, July 19, 2012 — Page 9 Barry County famous for thoroughbred livestock, part 2 The following article was published in the Sept. 21, 1911, Banner listing the top breeders of livestock in the county. Though it appeared as a regular newspaper article, it bears similarity to a marketing bulletin. ***** Swine In the old days pigs were just pigs and anything like a pedigree for a hog, or any intimation that it was worthwhile to pay any attention to the breeding of swine, would have been ridiculed. “Isn’t a hog just a hog?” would have been the inquiry. But we know more about the subject now, and we are coming to understand that it’s worth a farmer’s while, well worth it, to study the breeding of swine. Barry County can boast of as fine thoroughbred swine as can be found in this or any other country. And, we are having the proof of that fact brought home to us in a very tangible manner. Warnie Kelsey Warnie Kelsey of Carlton, address Hastings, Route 5, has been a breeder of Duroc Jerseys for a few years back and has been perfecting his herd until he is now able to show some fine breeding animals as registered Duroc, with pedigrees that show them to represent the highest strains of that breed. Good bone, quick growth, and the ability to take on flesh profitably is characteristic of the Duroc Jerseys. Mr. Kelsey will exhibit at the fair, and you will have an opportunity to see what a fine type of Duroc he has to offer. He usually has young stock of this breed to sell. See him or write him if interested. W.H. Schantz For some time, Mr. Schantz has been a breeder of registered Berkshire swine. He has records from his own experience that show the very profitable qualities of the Berkshires. Mr. Schantz is not content with “well enough”. He wants the best. And the Ohio farm papers report his attendance at Berkshire sales held in that state this fall and that he was one of the best customers for the best types of Berkshires offered. He has a fine herd, but proposes to improve them. He is shipping registered Berkshires for long distances, but from the way he goes at it, he is sure to be a leader in breeding this popular variety of swine. He also is a breeder of thoroughbred Shropshire sheep. He sold two of his yearling rams last week, but has eight more to offer. Gilbert D. Scott Gilbert D. Scott, address Quimby, Route 1, Citizens phone from Hastings, is a breeder of OIC [Ohio Inproved Chesters] swine, and is winning a wide reputation as a breeder of that justly celebrated type of swine. Stock from this pens won first and second prizes, also the grand championship, at the Michigan State Fair for the last two years, against competitors from a dozen other states. That shows that Mr. Scott started right and that he is right in his methods of breeding OICs. He has stock to sell and will exhibit at the fair week after next. He will be glad to have anyone visit his breeding pens, or to answer any inquiries by letter or phone. H.C. Helrigle H.C. Helrigle, whose address is Middleville, and who has a phone from the Middleville exchange, is a breeder of Duroc Jersey swine. His pens represent the best strains of his favorite variety of profit-paying swine. He will be pleased to receive a visit from you, or to answer correspondence or telephone calls, if you are interested. He has two fine Duroc Jersey boars for sale, also several young pigs, all registered thoroughbred stock. Mr. Helrigle owns the C. Schondelmayer flock of Standard Bred Barred Plymouth Rocks, which captured the prizes at the leading Michigan poultry shows. He has some sock for sale. Kennedy and Martin If you noticed the Banner front window this week, you observed the remarkable number of prizes won by Kennedy and Martin, proprietors of the Tyron Herd of Poland Chinas at the West Michigan Fair at Grand Rapids. What they didn’t take in the Poland China class wasn’t worth considering. The aim of Kenney and Martin is to breed the large, growthy type of Poland Chinas that yield big money to the farmer. It is not surprising that they captured the premiums when the breeding of their herd is considered. They also are breeders of registered Cotswold sheep of the highest breeding. They will be glad to see or to correspond with anyone who may be interested in Poland China swine or Cotswold sheep. Their address is Hastings, Route 5, and they have a Citizens phone from Hastings. Otto B. Schulze For years Otto B. Schulze, of Nashville, has been engaged in the breeding of O.I.C. thoroughbred swine. He has a national reputation as a breeder of this stock. People visit his pens from all over Michigan as well as from other states. His hogs have captured first prizes and medals from Michigan and West Michigan state fairs, as well as in New York, Pennsylvania and other states. He has spring pigs, fall pigs and 11-months-old gilts for sale. We mentioned in the Banner of last week that Mr. Schulze had sold 24 of his O.I.C. pigs to Iowa parties for $803, and he sold them in competition with breeders from all over the country. With patient German thoroughness Mr. Schulze has made a study of the O.I.C., and developed a type that is of the greatest profit to the grower. Walter Beach For many years, Walter Beach has been a breeder of Poland Chinas, and has a fine herd of thoroughbred Poland Chinas now. He selected this breed because its good points appealed to him, and he has sought in every way to improve his herd and has done so. In 1909 he captured the sweepstaked prize on Poland Chinas at the Barry County Fair and has taken other premiums on them at our county fairs, also. He is a thorough farmer, and has an eye to the business end of farming, and that induced him to select the Poland Chinas for his farm, and he is able to show any man that it has paid him well. Mr. Beach also owns Deck, a fine Percheron stallion, sired by Mistral. Deck has carried off first prize at the Barry County fairs in his class. Mr. Beach lives in Johnstown. His post office is Dowling, and he has a phone from Banfield. C.U. Edmonds Whatever Carey Edmonds does as a farmer, you may know he has the best of reasons for doing and that he does it because it pays to do it. When he selected Duroc Jersey swine as the proper breed for him, he did so after thorough investigation. He has stuck to this breed for years because experience has confirmed his judgment as to their merits. He has spent much time and money to get the best strains of Duroc breeding, and has a herd to be proud of. He has just had the Banner print him a fine catalogue in which he tells of the breeding of his Durocs. He also is a breeder of Delaine Merinos, and is able to show the best of reasons why they are the profitable sheep for the farmer. You can reach him by Citizens phone. His farm is eight miles south of this city. T. Johnston is the manager. His address is Hastings Route 4. He will be glad to have you call and see his Durocs or the Delaine Merinos. W.L. Pennock W.L. Pennock has for many years been a breeder or Poland China swine. Those who know Mr. Pennock fully understand that what he does as a farmer he does well and does thoroughly. He has bred and shipped to all parts of this and other states registered Poland Chinas from his large and highly bred herd. Prolific strain and good bone are the characteristic qualities of Poland Chinas. Longfellow and Perfection King strains are at the head of his herd, and he has a herd to be proud of. He will gladly show them to you, or answer any inquiries by letter or phone. His farm is two miles south of this city. His address is Hastings Route 6, and he has a Citizens phone from Hastings. ***** Sheep For many years increasing attention has been given to sheep-raising in Barry County, and the idea has been to systematically improve the flocks, and this has been accomplished in a marked degree. Although the price of wool has been depressed for the past two years, owing to the tariff agitation, it has been discovered that in spite of this, a flock of sheep on the farm adapted to its size and ability to produce pasture and feed is a very profitable farm asset. You no longer see the little runty sheep, good neither for wool nor mutton, that were common years ago. Instead you find the sheep of large size, prolific producers of a profitable fleece that bring up the scale arm at a very substantial figure when it is time to sell the animal as mutton. Bert Newland If you are interested in raising sheep for profit, you will be interested in the Hampshire sheep, for they have no superior for wool and mutton. Bert Newland’s address is Shultz Route 1, residence Section 32, Rutland, and he has a Citizens phone from Hastings. He is a methodical farmer, and he knows what his sheep are doing for him, and can give you facts and figures as to their production of wool and mutton that will thoroughly convince you of their value to the farmer who desires to have the balance on the profit side of the account with his flock. He has stock to sell, and will be glad to show his shee or to answer any inquiries by letter or telephone. P.T. Colgrove Mr. Colgrove is a breeder of thoroughbred Shropshire sheep. He has a large farm, runs it on a business basis and it pays him handsomely. A good flock of pure blood Shrop sheep is an important feature of his farming proposition. He is raising these sheep for his own farm purposes. He keeps an accurate book account with his flock, and is able to give any inquirer the benefit of his experience in the raising of thoroughbred Shrop sheep. He considers the Shropshire the best type of sheep for the farmer. Chas. Hall and Son Chas. Hall and Son, whose farm is three miles south of this city, whose address is Hastings, Route 4, and whose telephone num- ber is 120-1L-2S, from Hastings Citizens Exchange, gives special attention to their fine flock of Improved Shropshire sheep, all registered thoroughbreds. Their flock is from the famous Hambner, Ontario, stock farm which is the largest importers of Shropshires, and whose proprietors have given special attention to developing an improved Shropshire type that would be especially adapted to our northern climate, would be prolific breeders and yield handsomely in both wool and mutton. The Hambner people have succeeded remarkably in their efforts and Messrs. Hall and Son have the choicest product from the Hambner Stock farm. Messrs. Hall and Son have eight yearling rams to sell which weigh from 175 to 200 pounds each. Harry L. Mayo Harry L. Mayo resides in Assyria has a Citizens phone from Nashville, gets mail on Nashville RFD, is known far and wide as a sheep breeder. His specialties are thoroughbred American Merino and Von Homeyer Rambouillette sheep, and he has registered stock to sell with the highest breeding, as their pedigrees will show. He will exhibit his sheep at the Barry County Fair, and will be glad to have you see them or to answer correspondence or telephone calls regarding them. Mr. Mayo is not only an enthusiastic breeder of pure-blood stock, but he is also a live-wire as an up-to-date farmer, and has no kick coming on farming as a business. He is also an enthusiastic promoter of the Barry County Fair and will this year have charge of the swine exhibit at our fair and expects it will be far superior to any in the history of the fair. He was born in Section 34 Maple Grove, Sept. 11, 1859, and has lived there or on Section 3, Assyria, just across the line, all his life. L.M. Campbell L.M. Campbell is a breeder of thoroughbred, registered Rambouillette sheep and always has some good ones to sell. He has spared neither pains nor expense in grading up his flock, and will be glad to have them inspected by any one who may be interested. The Rambouillettes have come in to great favor in recent years because of their prolific breeding qualities, their excellence for mutton and their capacity for rapid growth and large size, also their wool growing qualities. Mr. Campbell will be very glad to show you his fine flock at his home, Section 18, Maple Grove, also to correspond or talk with you by phone. His address is Morgan, Route 1, and he has a Citizens phone from Nashville. State News Roundup Kresge Foundation supports developing food hub network The Michigan State University Center for Regional Food Systems has been awarded a $450,000 grant by The Kresge Foundation to support CRFS in developing and providing leadership to a food hub network in Michigan over the next three years. CRFS will engage food hubs – businesses or organizations that manage the aggregation, distribution and marketing of primarily local or regional food products – and regional and state leaders and organizations in the Michigan Food Hub Learning and Innovation Network. Participants will learn with food hub entrepreneurs from across Michigan and the nation to increase their capacity to profitably supply food to new markets, including those in areas with limited access to healthy, affordable foods. The Kresge Foundation’s grant to CRFS augments the state’s $1.95 million Valueadded/Regional Food Systems grant program, administered by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. A key partner in the Michigan Food Hub Learning and Innovation Network, MDARD recently announced the grant program and the availability of technical assistance to support food system infrastructure and healthy food access. Findings from the network will be shared with the recently established National Good Food Network Food Hub Collaboration, which is working to ensure the success of food hubs throughout the United States. It will supply the Michigan network with technical assistance and information gathered from emerging and existing food hubs across the country. Additional support for developing the Michigan Food Hub Learning and Innovation Network is provided by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation. Audit shows decrease in alcohol, drug involvement in crashes The 2011 Michigan Drunk Driving Audit shows declines in alcohol- and drug-related crashes, fatalities and injuries. Overall, deaths resulting from alcohol and/or drug-related crashes decreased by 10.6 percent, from 357 in 2010 to 319 in 2011, while injuries fell from 6,175 to 6,086. Drug involvement in traffic fatalities fell almost 17 percent, from 153 deaths in 2010 to 127 in 2011, while alcohol involvement declined 3 percent, from 283 to 274. In many cases, deaths involved both alcohol and drugs and are counted in each category. Prior to 2011’s decrease, drug-involved traffic fatalities had increased by nearly 30 percent over the past five years. As part of an effort to address this issue, Michigan trained 15 drug recognition experts last year. DREs are trained to recognize signs of impairment in drivers under the influence of drugs other than, or in addition to, alcohol and to identify the category or categories of drugs causing the impairment. A second group of 13 officers completed training in 2012, and a third class is planned for 2013. “Drug-involved deaths and injuries have been increasing across the country,” said Col. Kriste Kibbey Etue, director of the Michigan State Police. “Officers in Michigan will continue to receive advanced training to help them identify and arrest drunk and drugged drivers in an effort to make our roads safer.” The Drunk Driving Audit is an annual report issued by the MSP Criminal Justice Information Center and is a collaborative effort between MSP and the Michigan Department of State. In 2011, 37,540 alcohol and drug-related driving arrests were made. Male drivers were nearly three times as likely as female drivers to be arrested for impaired driving, with 27,741 men arrested compared to 9,799 women. There were 37,431 persons convicted of operating under the influence of liquor or other impaired driving offenses. Some of these convictions include arrests made in prior years. The 2011 Drunk Driving is available at www.michigan.gov/drunkdrivingaudit. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers welcomes new commander Lt. Col. Robert J. Ells assumed command of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Detroit District, in a time-honored traditional Change of Command ceremony July 12. As district engineer, Ells, along with the district’s more than 400 employees, oversees a more than $80 million program. “We accept with pride our role in protecting, maintaining and improving the Great Lakes — one of our nation’s most precious natural resources.” The district’s area of responsibility includes all of Michigan and parts of Minnesota, Wisconsin and Indiana – a total area of 82,000 square miles of land with 4,000 miles of Great Lakes shoreline. Approximately 14 million people live within the district’s boundaries. The district maintains 611 miles of channels and 95 harbors including connecting channels on lakes Superior, Michigan, Huron, St. Clair and part of Lake Erie. Much of this work is carried out through four area offices located in Detroit, Grand Haven and Sault Ste. Marie, and in Duluth, Minn. Supporting the Great Lakes navigation system, the Detroit district, established in 1841, investigates, plans, designs, constructs, operates and maintains congressionally authorized water resource projects related to navigation, flood control, hydropower production and recreation. The district also provides support to tribal nations, international organizations and other federal, state, and local government agencies. As a steward of the environment the Detroit district exercises regulatory authority over wetlands adjacent to navigable waterways and completes ecosystem restoration projects throughout the region. Ells recently served as assistant operations officer, engineer squadron commander and executive officer of the 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta at Fort Bragg, N.C. He assumes command from Lt. Col. Michael C. Derosier, who served the district well for the past two years and will move on to serve at the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works. RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF ORDINANCE SUBMITTAL TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a proposed Ordinance #2012-142 appended hereto was introduced for first reading by the Rutland Charter Township Board at its July 11, 2012 meeting. This proposed ordinance will be considered for adoption by the Township Board at its next regular meeting on August 8, 2012 commencing at 7:30 p.m. at the Rutland Charter Township Hall. Rutland Charter Township Clerk will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/hearing upon seven (7) days' notice to Rutland Charter Township. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Township. RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP BOARD Rutland Charter Township Hall 2461 Heath Road Hastings, MI 49058 Telephone: (269) 948-2194 CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF RUTLAND BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN ORDINANCE # 2012-142 (PROPOSED) Amendment to the Rutland Charter Township Zoning Map ADOPTED: __________ EFFECTIVE: _________ An Ordinance to amend the Rutland Charter Township Zoning Ordinance by the rezoning of the subject parcel located in Land Section 14 within the Township from the "C-3", General Business District zoning classification to the “MU”, Mixed Use District zoning classification; and to repeal all Ordinances or parts of Ordinances in conflict herewith. The Charter Township of Rutland Barry County, Michigan ORDAINS SECTION I Rezoning of Properties in Land Section 14 The Zoning Map as incorporated by reference in the Rutland Charter Township Zoning Ordinance is hereby amended by rezoning from the "C-3", General Business District zoning classification to the “MU”, Mixed Use District zoning classification the following described properties in Land Section 14, Parcel # 08-13-014-045-00: RUTLAND TWP W 5 A OF; S 10 A E 1/2 OF S E 1/4 NW 1/4 SEC 14-3-9 ALSO COM AT W 1/4 POST SEC 14 TH S 88 DEG 51' 43" E 1959.27 FT FOR POB TH N 00 DEG 04' 38" E 233 FT TH S 88 DEG 51' 43" E 11.5 FT TH S 00 DEG 04' 38" W 233 FT TH N 88 DEG 51' 43" W 11.5 FT TO POB SECTION II Severability The provisions of this Ordinance are hereby declared to be severable, and if any part of are declared invalid for any reason by a court of competent jurisdiction it shall not affect the remainder of the Ordinance, which shall continue in full force and effect. SECTION III Repeal of Conflicting Ordinances All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with this Ordinance are hereby repealed. SECTION IV Effective Date This Ordinance shall take effect eight (8) days after publication of the Notice of Adoption by the Township Board. Robin Hawthorne, Clerk Charter Township of Rutland 77569453 �Page 10 — Thursday, July 19, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Pierce Cedar Creek Institute reschedules fundraiser Pierce Cedar Creek Institute’s only major fundraising event, A Midsummer Night’s Green, has been rescheduled from July 28 to Saturday, Sept. 15. Community attendance and participation will help Pierce Cedar Creek Institute sustain its mission of environmental education, research, preservation and appreciation, said Executive Director Michelle Skedgell. The decision to change the annual fundraiser’s date was tough, she added. “After hearing from many people who came to the event last year who said they will be on vacation this year, and noticing some key conflicts with other planned events in the community, plus a light response, to date, for RSVPs, it was the best decision for the institute to reschedule,” said Skedgell in a press release issued July 16. “Summer is a prime time of the year for vacationing. Moving this important event to the fall seemed to be a better fit for people’s schedules.” The event will remain the same. Guests will enjoy a strolling dinner, wine from a local winery and light musical entertainment. Minor changes to the menu will occur to incorporate seasonal food items. A private wine tasting will be from 5 to 6 p.m. for wines not be available later in the evening. A Midsummer Night’s Green will officially begin at 6 p.m. and continue until 9 p.m. A silent auction will take place during the first part of the night. More than 80 unique items will be up for auction, including handmade birdhouses, woodworked items and specialty wines. Later in the evening, a live auction will contain some get-away packages. Tickets are available online at www.cedarcreekinstitute.org or by calling 269-721-4190. Emergency electric shut-off assistance available The Barry County United Way has received a Vulnerable Household Warmth Fund Grant for heat and electric utility shutoff assistance for Barry County residents. This grant can provide financial assistance to low-income households on winter payment plans that utility shut-off notices from Nov. 1, 2011, through March 31 of this year. To qualify for financial assistance, applications must be submitted to the State Emergency Relief Assistance at Department of Human Services. Whether an approval or denial is determined by DHS, applicants should call the Barry County United Way for an initial intake. Once prequalified, the following documents will be needed: DHS decision notice, utility shut-off notice, income verification documents, Social Security cards for all household members, driver’s licenses or photo identification, court custody papers, if applicable, proof of home ownership or rental lease agreement, and receipt of client co-payment. If an applicant is not in possession of one or more of the documents, information on how to obtain them will be provided. Household income must be under the amount listed for the size of the household to qualify. Dollar amounts provided are gauged at 60 percent of actual median income: one person, $27,720; two people, $31,680; three people, $35,640; four people, $39,600; or five people, $42.780. “As the only United Way in the state to receive these funds, we are working hard to get them distributed to households that qualify,” says Lani Forbes, executive director, Barry County United Way. To date, more than 79 households have been “As the only United Way in the state to receive these funds, we are working hard to get them distributed to households that qualify.” Lani Forbes, executive director, Barry County United Way assisted with these grant dollars. Call the Barry County United Way office, 269-945-4010, to qualify. LEGAL NOTICES THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. MORTGAGE SALE--Default has been made in the conditions of a Mortgage made by CHRISTINE R. VANKAMPEN, a single woman, Mortgagor, to NPB MORTGAGE, LLC, Mortgagee, dated June 10, 2002, and recorded June 20, 2002, Instrument Number 1082541, of Barry County Records, Michigan, which mortgage was assigned by mesne assignments to First National Acceptance Company, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due as of the date of this notice $11,946.71, including interest at 11.95% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to the statutes of the State of Michigan, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public auction to the highest bidder, on Thursday, August 9, 2012, at 1 o’clock in the afternoon, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, Michigan. Said premises are situated in the Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Beginning 310.57 feet North of the NW corner of Lot 9 of Sam Bravata Plat; thence West 170.96 feet; thence North 00 degrees 33’ West 127.25 feet along the West line of the property described in the deed recorded in Liber 244, Page 407; thence South 67 degrees 39’ East (previously described as South 65 degrees 55’ East) 168 feet; thence South 70 degrees 06’47” East (previously described as South 68 degrees 23 minutes East) 17.86 feet; thence South 57.30 feet to the place of beginning.; c/k/a 4726 Princess Dr., Shelbyville, MI 49344 The redemption period shall be six months from the date of the sale, unless the premises are determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days. Please be advised that if the mortgaged property is sold at a foreclosure sale by advertisement, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 you will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale, or to the mortgage holder, for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 12, 2012 LeVasseur Dyer & Associates, PC Attorneys for Mortgagee P.O. Box 721400 Berkley, 77569342 MI 48072 (248) 586-1200 (07-12)(08-02) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Claude Wierckz and Tina Wierckz, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated May 29, 2007, and recorded on June 11, 2007 in instrument 1181556, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Forty-Three Thousand Ninety and 01/100 Dollars ($143,090.01). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 26, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 23, Gackler's Payne Lake Plat, according to the plat recorded in Liber 5 of Plats Page 72 of Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 28, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #404805F01 77569015 (06-28)(07-19) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Richard Marshall aka Richard A. Marshall and Kelly Marshall, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, Inc., Mortgagee, dated September 30, 2003, and recorded on October 3, 2003 in instrument 1114814, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Forty Thousand Six Hundred Seventy-Four and 80/100 Dollars ($140,674.80). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 16, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 79 of Boulder Creek Estates, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats on Page 23. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #251147F04 77569434 (07-19)(08-09) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Michael Pifer, a single man and Jacqulyn Tompkins, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, Mortgagee, dated June 18, 2007, and recorded on June 20, 2007 in instrument 1181982, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-One Thousand Five Hundred Ninety-Four and 59/100 Dollars ($131,594.59). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 9, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 30 of Sandy Knolls Plat No. 2 according to the Plat thereof recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 94 of Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #405666F01 (07-12)(08-02) 77569357 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Danny R. Daugherty, A Single Person, original mortgagor(s), to National Bank of Hastings, Mortgagee, dated November 1, 2002, and recorded on November 23, 2002 in instrument 1092225, and assigned by said Mortgagee to PHH Mortgage Corporation as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-One Thousand Three Hundred FortyFive and 09/100 Dollars ($61,345.09). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 9, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The South 50 feet of Lots 36 and 37 and the North 32 feet of vacated Lincoln Street of Kelly's Addition No. 1, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 94. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #406008F01 (07-12)(08-02) 77569349 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Edward N. Sabo, a married man and Lisa J. Sabo, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Exchange Financial Corporation, Mortgagee, dated January 12, 2001, and recorded on January 17, 2001 in instrument 1053974, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Chase Manhattan Mortgage Corporation as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Eight Thousand Six Hundred NinetySeven and 57/100 Dollars ($98,697.57). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 2, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 11, 12 and 13 of Eastwood Acres, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats on Page 7. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #403605F01 77560957 (07-05)(07-26) STATE OF MICHIGAN 5th CIRCUIT COURT FAMILY DIVISION COUNTY OF BARRY PUBLICATION OF HEARING CASE NO. 12-8432-NA PETITION NO. 12008292 IN THE MATTER OF: KATHLEEN IRENE OLIVIA LOWERY A Neglect Petition has been filed in the above matter regarding: KATHLEEN OLIVIA LOWERY. DOB. 10-1-10. A TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS HEARING is scheduled for FRIDAY, AUGUST 3, 2012 10:00 A.M. And will be held at Barry County Trial Court Family Division, 206 W. Court St. Ste 302, Hastings, MI 49058. IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED THAT LEONARD PAUL LOWERY II personally appear before the Court at the time and place stated above. Failure to attend the hearing will constitute a denial of interest in the minor, a waiver of notice for all subsequent hearings, a waiver of right to appointment of an attorney, which could result in TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS. 77569362 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS In the matter of Victor C. and Phyllis L. Phares Trust. Date of birth: October 6, 1930. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Phyllis L. Phares, died May 17, 2012. There is no personal representative of the decedent’s estate to whom Letters of Authority have been issued. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the Trust will be forever barred unless presented to Zandra Belson, Trustee(s) of the Victor C. and Phyllis L. Phares Trust, u/a March 4, 2004 as amended within 4 months after the date of publication of this. Date: July 12, 2012 Miller Johnson Catherine C. Metzler P38690 100 West Michigan Avenue, Suite 200 Kalamazoo, MI 49007-3960 (269) 226-2954 Zandra Belson 7286 Barryville Rd. Nashville, MI 49073 77569425 (269) 758-3202 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Cora Lee Greenburg, an unmarried woman, original mortgagor(s), to World Savings Bank, FSB, Mortgagee, dated July 30, 2002, and recorded on August 13, 2007 in instrument 1085507, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Thirty-Six Thousand Ninety-Nine and 99/100 Dollars ($236,099.99). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 2, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 23, Supervisor's Plat of Long Point, as recorded in Liber 2 of Page 50, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #367213F02 77569161 (07-05)(07-26) Synopsis Hastings Charter Township Regular Meeting July 10, 2012 Meeting called to order at 7:00 pm Pledge and roll call Seven board members present, 5 guests attended Approved June minutes & Various dept. reports Treasurer’s report approved Clerks quarterly financial Supervisor – Board of Review New member Transferring of funds Approved payment of warrants Board member comments Public comment Approved motion to adjourn 8:04 pm Read full minutes on twp. website Respectfully submitted, Anita S. Mennell - Clerk Attested to by 77569439 Jim Brown – Supervisor Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Lucas Beroza, an unmarried man and Katrina Harter, an unmarried woman and Steven Beroza, an unmarried man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 17, 2007, and recorded on August 20, 2007 in instrument 20070820-0001078, and assigned by said Mortgagee to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Six Thousand Three Hundred Forty-Seven and 06/100 Dollars ($76,347.06). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 26, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at a point in the Center of the Highway 20 rods West of the Southeast corner of the West 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 28, Town 1 North, Range 9 West; thence North 10 rods thence West 10 rods; thence South 10 rods; thence East 10 rods to the place of beginning, Barry Township, Barry County, Michigan The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 28, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #347971F02 77567817 (06-28)(07-19) GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, July 19, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Forrest J. Bagley Jr, and Kimberly L. Bagley, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Plus of America Corporation, Mortgagee, dated June 11, 2001, and recorded on June 19, 2001 in instrument 1061708, and assigned by mesne assignments to CitiMortgage, Inc. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twelve Thousand Five Hundred Six and 56/100 Dollars ($112,506.56). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 26, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land in the Northeast fractional 1/4 of Section 6, Town 1 North, Range 10 West, Prairieville Township, Barry County, Michigan, and is more particularly described as follows: Commencing at the Northeast corner of Section 6, Town 1 North, Range 10 West; thence South 2 degrees 11 minutes 53 seconds East along the East line of said Section, 132.50 feet to the place of beginning of this description; thence continuing South 2 degrees 11 minutes 53 seconds East along said line, 103.71 feet; thence South 72 degrees 13 minutes 35 seconds West, a distance of 120.78 feet; thence North 2 degrees 11 minutes 53 West parallel with the said East line, a distance of 106.75 feet to the Southerly Right-of-Way of Pine Lake Road, thence along a curve to the right with a radius of 2864.79 feet, subtended by a chord of North 73 degrees 37 minutes 36 seconds East, a distance of 120.00 feet and an arc of 102.01 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 28, 2012 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #398539F01 77569010 (06-28)(07-19) AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTIFY US AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by Tammy Rose Dull And Steven John Paul Claypool, A single woman and A single man , Mortgagors, to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., Mortgagee, dated the 9th day of June, 2010 and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, for The County of Barry and State of Michigan, on the 22nd day of June, 2010 in Liber INSTRUMENT # 201006220006032 of Barry County Records, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, the sum of One Hundred Three Thousand Two Hundred Thirty Seven And 31/100 ($103237.31), and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on the 9th day of August, 2012 at 1:00 PM o’clock Local Time, said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI (that being the building where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held), of the premises described in said mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due, as aforesaid on said mortgage, with interest thereon at 5.5% per annum and all legal costs, charges, and expenses, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sum or sums which may be paid by the undersigned, necessary to protect its interest in the premises. Which said premises are described as follows: All that certain piece or parcel of land, including any and all structures, and homes, manufactured or otherwise, located thereon, situated in the Township of Rutland, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and described as follows, to wit: LOT 344 AND THE NORTHWEST 1/2 OF LOT 343 OF ALGONQUIN LAKE PROPERTIES UNIT NO. 2 ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF IN LIBER 2 ON PAGE 63 AND THE NORTHWESTERLY 1/2 OF LOT 343 BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS COMMENCING AT THE CORNER COMMON TO LOTS 343 AND 344 OF OTTAWA TRAIL; THENCE SOUTHEASTERLY ON THE LINE OF LOT 343, A DISTANCE OF 25 FEET; THENCE SOUTHWESTERLY PARALLELL TO THE LINE OF LOTS 344 AND 343 TO THE LOT LINE; THENCE NORTHWESTERLY ALONG THE LINE OF LOT 343 AND 344, 125.8 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. During the six (6) months immediately following the sale, the property may be redeemed, except that in the event that the property is determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241a, the property may be redeemed during 30 days immediately following the sale. Pursuant to MCLA 600.3278, the mortgagor(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 7/12/2012 JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Mortgagee FABRIZIO & BROOK, P.C. Attorney for JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. 888 W. Big Beaver, Suite 800 Troy, Ml 48084 248-362-2600 CHASE FARM GNMA DULL 77569379 (07-12)(08-02) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on May 13, 2005, by Kari L. Geller (a/k/a Kari L. Fisher), a single woman, as Mortgagor, given by her to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on May 16, 2005, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 1146597, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank on March 16, 2012, recorded on March 20, 2012, in Instrument Number 201203200002836, Barry County Records, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of Thirty-Nine Thousand Five Hundred Ten and 36/100 Dollars ($39,510.36); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, August 9, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF JOHNSTOWN, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: The South 10 feet of Lot 6 and the North 90 feet of Lot 7 of the Plat of Fernwood, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 4 of Plats on Page 29, being also described as: Commencing on Winana Drive at the corner common to Lots 6 and 7 of the Plat of Fernwood; thence North 14 degrees 9 minutes East on the Lot line a distance of 10 feet; thence North 89 degrees 40 minutes West parallel with the lot line 120 feet; thence South 14 degrees 9 minutes West on the lot line 100 feet; thence South 89 degrees 40 minutes East parallel with the lot line 120 feet; thence North 14 degrees 9 minutes East 90 feet on the lot line to the place of beginning. Commonly known as: 12076 Winans Drive, Dowling, Michigan 49050-8814 Parcel Number: 0809-070-005-00 The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: June 27, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, 77569228 MI 48933 (517) 371-8253 (07-05)(07-26) FORECLOSURE NOTICE RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES, P.C. MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. Mortgage Sale - Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by MIKE KENYON, HUSBAND AND WIFE AS JOINT TENANTS, AND LINDA KENYON, HUSBAND AND WIFE, AS JOINT TENANTS to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. acting solely as a nominee for America`s Wholesale Lender, Mortgagee, dated November 15, 2005, and recorded on November 23, 2005, as Document Number: 1156700, Barry County Records, said mortgage was assigned to THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-17 by an Assignment of Mortgage dated October 07, 2011 and recorded October 24, 2011 by Document Number: 201110240009977, , on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Fifty-Five Thousand Nine Hundred Eighty-Five and 32/100 ($55,985.32) including interest at the rate of 4.55000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the Circuit Court in said Barry County, where the premises to be sold or some part of them are situated, at 01:00 PM on August 9, 2012 Said premises are situated in the Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 53 of O.A. Phillips Addition to Village of Nashville, County of Barry, State of Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof. Commonly known as: 315 CLEVELAND If the property is eventually sold at foreclosure sale, the redemption period will be 6.00 months from the date of sale unless the property is abandoned or used for agricultural purposes. If the property is determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 and/or 600.3241a, the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of sale, or 15 days after statutory notice, whichever is later. If the property is presumed to be used for agricultural purposes prior to the date of the foreclosure sale pursuant to MCL 600.3240, the redemption period is 1 year. Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages are, if any, limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: July 12, 2012 Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-17 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302, (248) 335-9200 Case No. 12MI02107-1 77569389 (07-12)(08-02) FORECLOSURE NOTICE RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES, P.C. MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. Mortgage Sale - Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by Anthony Moore a single man to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., acting solely as nominee for Advantage Lending Corp., Mortgagee, dated October 5, 2009, and recorded on October 7, 2009, as Document Number: 200910130010098, Barry County Records, said mortgage was assigned to Bank of America, N.A. as successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP fka Counrtywide Home Loans Servicing, LP by an Assignment of Mortgage dated September 29, 2011 and recorded October 13, 2011 by Document Number: 201110130009601, , on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Two Thousand Two Hundred Ten and 40/100 ($72,210.40) including interest at the rate of 5.75000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the Circuit Court in said Barry County, where the premises to be sold or some part of them are situated, at 01:00 PM on August 9, 2012 Said premises are situated in the Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: LOT NUMBER 48 OF THE LAPHAMS AIRPORT LOTS, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF, AS RECORDED IN LIBER 3 OF PLATS ON PAGE 100, AND LOT 49 OF THE LAPHAMS AIRPORT LOTS NUMBER 2, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF, AS RECORDED IN LIBER 5 OF PLATS, ON PAGE 87. Commonly known as: 6009 MARSH RD If the property is eventually sold at foreclosure sale, the redemption period will be 6.00 months from the date of sale unless the property is abandoned or used for agricultural purposes. If the property is determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 and/or 600.3241a, the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of sale, or 15 days after statutory notice, whichever is later. If the property is presumed to be used for agricultural purposes prior to the date of the foreclosure sale pursuant to MCL 600.3240, the redemption period is 1 year. Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages are, if any, limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: July 12, 2012 Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Bank of America, N.A. as successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP fka Counrtywide Home Loans Servicing, LP 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302, (248) 335-9200 Case No. 77569384 12MI01744-1 (07-12)(08-02) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Josh Spurr and Jessica Spurr, Husband and Wife, to Fifth Third Mortgage - MI, LLC, Mortgagee, dated September 27, 2007 and recorded October 2, 2007 in Instrument Number 20071002-0002661, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Fifth Third Mortgage Company by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Eight Thousand Thirty-Six and 90/100 Dollars ($128,036.90) including interest at 6.75% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 08/02/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land located in the Township of Irving, Barry County, State of Michigan, and described as follows: A parcel of land in the Northeast 1/4 of section 32, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, described as: commencing at the North 1/4 post of said section 32; thence East on the center of Grange Road 389 feet for the place of beginning; thence East on the center line of said road 125 feet; thence South 734 feet; thence West 125 feet; thence North 734 feet to the place of beginning The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: July 5, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 200.4996 77569196 (07-05)(07-26) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE WILLIAM AZKOUL P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. Default having been made in the conditions of a real estate mortgage made by Jeremy T. Moore, an unmarried man, of 2029 Rowe, NE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49505 and NPB Mortgage, LLC, a Michigan limited liability company, whose address is 3333 Deposit Drive, NE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49546, dated April 10, 2007 and recorded on April 11, 2001 in Instrument No. 1179091 of the Barry County Register of Deeds, which mortgage has been assigned to Northpointe Bank, a Michigan banking corporation, whose address is 3333 Deposit Drive, NE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49546, by virtue of an Assignment of Mortgage dated June 4, 2012, and recorded on June 11, 2012 with the Barry County Register of Deeds in Instrument No. 2012-001042 and upon which there is now claimed to be due for principal and interest the sum of Twenty One Thousand Two Hundred Seventy One Dollars and Forty Nine Cents ($21,271.49), which continues to accrue interest at the rate of 9.950%, and no suit or proceedings at law having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the mortgage, and the statute in such case made and provided, on August 2, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., the undersigned will sell at the East door of the Barry County Courthouse, Hastings, Michigan, that being the place of holding the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, at public venue to the highest bidder for the purpose of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid upon the Mortgage, together with the legal fees and charges of the sale, including attorney’s fees allowed by law, the premises in the mortgage located in Hope Township, Barry County, Michigan and which are described as follows: Lot 168 of Steven’s Wooded Acres No. 3, according to the plat thereof recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 84, Barry County Records. P.P. #08-07-315168-00 which has an address of 8382 Chain-O-Lakes Drive, Hastings, Michigan 49058. The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a in which case the redemption period shall be thirty (30) days from the date of such sale. Northpointe Bank 3333 Deposit Drive, NE Grand Rapids, MI 49546 DATED: June 22, 2012 Drafted By: William M. Azkoul (P40071) Attorney for Mortgagee 161 Ottawa Avenue, NW Suite 205-C Grand Rapids, MI 49503 77569027 (616) 458-1315 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Dale Krueger Jr., a married man and Frances Krueger, his wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated January 19, 2007 and recorded February 8, 2007 in Instrument Number 1176188, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Bank of America, N.A., as successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. FKA Countrywide Home Loans Servicing L.P by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ninety-Eight Thousand Four and 17/100 Dollars ($198,004.17) including interest at 4.625% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 08/09/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Real property in the Township of Thornapple, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and is described as follows; Lot 6, Thornapple Bends Estates, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats, Page 35. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: July 12, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 285.6471 77569399 (07-12)(08-02) Synopsis HOPE TOWNSHIP Regular Board Meeting July 9, 2012 5 Board members present. 5 guests. Regular meeting opened at 7 p.m. Approved: Agenda Previous Minutes Standing Reports Bills Resolution 2012-16 Approval of Master Plan Adjourned at 7:50 p.m. Submitted by: Deborah Jackson, Clerk Attested to by Patricia Albert, Supervisor 77569427 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Trust In the matter of HARRY W. AND OLEDA C. SOLMES FAMILY TRUST, dated May 6, 1998. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Oleda C. Solmes, born May 28, 1915, who lived at 690 West Main Street, Middleville, Michigan died June 23, 2012 leaving a certain trust under the name of Harry W. and Oleda C. Solmes Family Trust, and dated May 6, 1998, wherein the decedent was the Settlor and Juanita J. Shaeffer was named as the trustee serving at the time of or as a result of the decedents death. Creditors of the decedent and of the trust are notified that all claims against the decedent or against the trust will be forever barred unless presented to Juanita J. Shaeffer the named trustee at 3825 Engle Road, Middleville, Michigan within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: July 11, 2012 Robert L. Byington 222 West Apple Street, P.O. Box 248 Hastings, Michigan 49058 269-945-9557 Juanita J. Shaeffer 3825 Engle Road Middleville, Michigan 49333 77569423 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF A MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on February 26, 2004, by Ronald J. Pelli and Patricia A. Pelli, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, given by them to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on March 3, 2004, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 1123097, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank on May 22, 2012, recorded on May 24, 2012, in Instrument Number 2012-000510, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of Eighty-Four Thousand Six Hundred Sixty-Eight and 31/100 Dollars ($84,668.31); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, August 9, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: A Parcel of Land in the Northeast quarter of Section 33, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, described as: Commencing at the North quarter corner of said Section 33; Thence South 89 degrees 19 minutes 49 seconds East 1321.29 feet along the North line of said Section 33; Thence South 00 degrees 57 minutes 47 seconds West 673.00 feet along the East line of the West half of the Northeast quarter of said Section 33 to the true point of beginning; Thence South 00 degrees 57 minutes 47 seconds West 220.00 feet along said East line; Thence North 89 degrees 02 minutes 13 seconds West 231.00 feet; Thence North 00 degrees 57 minutes 47 seconds East 220.00 feet; Thence South 89 degrees 02 minutes 13 seconds East 231.00 feet to the point of beginning. Together with and subject to a private easement appurtenant thereto for ingress, egress, and public utility purposes for Butterfly Lane, described separately. Description of Butterfly Lane: A strip of land in the Northeast quarter of Section 33, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, 66 feet wide, 33 feet each side of a centerline described as: Commencing at the North quarter corner of said Section 33; Thence South 89 degrees 19 minutes 49 seconds East, 1321.29 feet along the North line of said Section 33; Thence South 00 degrees 57 minutes 47 seconds West 893.00 feet along the East line of the West half of the Northeast quarter of said Section 33; Thence North 89 degrees 02 minutes 57 seconds West 231.00 feet to the true point of beginning of said centerline; Thence North 00 degrees 57 minutes 47 seconds East 440.00 feet; Thence Northerly 110.17 feet along the arc of a curve to the left, the radius of which is 549.95, the central angle of which is 11 degrees 28 minutes 41 seconds and the chord of which bears North 04 degrees 46 minutes 34 seconds West 109.99 feet; Thence continuing Northerly 110.17 feet along the arc of a curve to the right, the radius of which is 549.95 feet, the central angle of which is 11 degrees 28 minutes 41 seconds and chord of which bears North 04 degrees 46 minutes 34 seconds West 109.99 feet; Thence North 00 degrees 57 minutes 47 seconds East 231.00 feet to the North line of said Section and the end of said centerline. Commonly known as: 2872 Butterfly Lane, Middleville, Michigan 49333 Parcel Number: 08008-033-020-13 Includes a 1994 Commodore, Serial #GS04287AB The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: June 26, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933 (517) 371-8253 (07-05)(07-26) �Page 12 — Thursday, July 19, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Matthew J. Thompson, a marred man Leah M. Thompson, spouse, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated May 24, 2006, and recorded on June 6, 2006 in instrument 1165663, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eighty-Two Thousand One Hundred Seventy-Four and 24/100 Dollars ($182,174.24). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 16, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 19 of Brookfield Acres, according to the recorded Plat thereof, being part of the North 1/2 Section 29, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, Hastings Township, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #405661F01 (07-19)(08-09) 77569374 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Robert A Caldwell and Shawn M Caldwell, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Broadmoor Financial Services, Inc., Mortgagee, dated May 28, 2002, and recorded on June 4, 2002 in instrument 1081605, and assigned by mesne assignments to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Seven Thousand Six Hundred Ninety-Six and 24/100 Dollars ($87,696.24). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 9, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the center of Section 6, Town 2 North, Range 7 West; thence East 627 feet; thence South 66 feet; thence South 37 degrees West 300 feet; thence South 30 degrees 28 minutes West 381 feet; thence South 22 degrees 12 minutes West 40 feet; thence North 86 degrees 7 minutes West 297.3 feet to the center of Morgan Road; thence follow the center of Morgan Road North 28 degrees 59 minutes East 118 feet; thence North 01 degrees 21 minutes East 536.1 feet to the place of beginning, except the North 412 feet thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #405283F01 77569236 (07-12)(08-02) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Clifton W. Blauvelt and Patricia A. Blauvelt, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Option One Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated November 6, 2006, and recorded on November 13, 2006 in instrument 1172659, and assigned by said Mortgagee to H & R Block Bank, a Federal Savings Bank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thousand Eight Hundred Eighty and 36/100 Dollars ($100,880.36). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 9, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Part of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 17, Town 2 North, Range 10 West, Orangeville Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Beginning at a point 332 feet East of the Southwest corner of said Section; thence East 178 feet; thence North 320 feet; thence West 178 feet; thence South 320 feet to the point of beginning The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #405929F01 77569242 (07-12)(08-02) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Michael Batt, a single man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Amera Mortgage Corporation its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated January 12, 2011, and recorded on March 15, 2011 in instrument 201103150002680, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Nine Thousand Three Hundred Thirty-One and 31/100 Dollars ($89,331.31). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 2, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 93 of Middleville Downs Addition No. 5, Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, on Page 43, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #387348F01 77569063 (07-05)(07-26) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Michael W. Schultz and Bonnie L. Schultz, husband and wife, tenants by the entirety, original mortgagor(s), to Chase Bank USA, N.A., Mortgagee, dated November 14, 2006, and recorded on January 16, 2007 in instrument 1175069, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for J.P. Morgan Mortgage Acquisition Trust 2007-CH4, Asset Backed PassThrough Certificates, Series 2007-CH4 as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-Five Thousand Nine Hundred Twenty-Three and 94/100 Dollars ($165,923.94). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 26, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 26, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, Irving Township, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 28, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #385338F04 77569034 (06-28)(07-19) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Paul B. Fifelski and Karen Fifelski, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated November 20, 2009, and recorded on December 1, 2009 in instrument 200912010011617, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Three Thousand Four Hundred Fifty-Two and 92/100 Dollars ($83,452.92). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 16, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 38 of Middleville Down No. 2 to the Village of Middleville, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats on page 13, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #403961F01 77569429 (07-19)(08-09) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Sylvia Smith, a single person, original mortgagor(s), to Homeloan USA Corporation, Mortgagee, dated May 14, 2004, and recorded on May 19, 2004 in instrument 1127867, in Barry county records, Michigan, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Six Thousand Four Hundred TwentyEight and 32/100 Dollars ($86,428.32). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 26, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That part of Lot 21 of Supervisor Chase's Addition No. 2 to the City of Hastings according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 2, described as: Commencing at the Southeast corner of Lot 20 of said Plat; thence East 86.5 Feet to the West side of Church Street if extended; thence North 135.5 Feet; thence West 86.5 Feet to a Point North of the Place of Beginning; thence South to the Place of Beginning. Excepting therefrom the South 13 Feet conveyed to the City of Hastings as part of Amy Street. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 28, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #407369F01 77569022 (06-28)(07-19) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Patrick W. Pribe, An unmarried man, original mortgagor(s), to Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Mortgagee, dated September 24, 2004, and recorded on October 18, 2004 in instrument 1135674, and assigned by said Mortgagee to US Bank National Association, as Trustee for Citigroup Mortgage Loan Trust Inc., Asset-Backed Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2005-WF1 as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Nine Thousand Three Hundred Thirty-Two and 54/100 Dollars ($109,332.54). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on July 26, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land in the Southwest 1/4 of section 21, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, described as: Beginning at a point on the West line of Section 21 which lies due North 1087.50 feet from the Southwest corner of said Section 21; thence due North 150 feet; thence South 89 degrees 50 minutes East 160 feet; thence due South 150 feet; thence North 89 degrees 50 minutes West 160 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: June 28, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #402872F01 77569005 (06-28)(07-19) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on May 14, 2004, by Alvin P. Hawley and Aimee L. Hawley, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, given by them to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on May 19, 2004, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 1127874, which mortgage was modified on July 27, 2009, recorded on August 7, 2009, in Instrument Number 200908070008132, Barry County Records, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank by an Assignment of Mortgage dated January 18, 2011, recorded January 28, 2011, in Instrument Number 201101280001033, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of Forty-Nine Thousand One Hundred Sixty-Six and 74/100 Dollars ($49,166.74); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, August 9, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: Lot 4, of Block 8 of the Village of Woodland, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats on page 21 and a 2 rod strip on the East end of said Lot 4, also a part of Lot 3, of Block 8 of the Village of Woodland and part of the Southwest quarter of Section 15, Town 4 North, Range 7 West, described as: Commencing 60 feet East of the Southwest corner of Block 8 of said Plat, thence North 12 rods to the place of beginning, thence East 113 feet 3 inches, thence South 60 feet, thence West 113 feet 3 inches, thence North 60 feet to the place of beginning. Commonly Known As: 134 N. State Street, Woodland, Michigan 48897 Tax Parcel Number: 08-15-110-032-00 The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: June 27, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933 (517) 37177569184 8253 (07-05)(07-26) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Timothy Joppie, unmarried man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for Quicken Loans Inc. its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated August 8, 2008, and recorded on August 11, 2008 in instrument 20080811-0008163, in Barry county records, Michigan, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Seventy-Seven Thousand Two Hundred Sixty-Eight and 79/100 Dollars ($177,268.79). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 2, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Baltimore, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The West 43 Acres of the North fractional 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 2, Town 2 North, Range 8 West, Baltimore Township, Barry County, Michigan Except That part of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 2, Town 2 North, Range 8 West, Baltimore Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner of said Section; thence North 89 degrees 58 minutes 00 seconds East 163.87 feet along the North line of said Northwest 1/4 to the place of beginning; thence continuing North 89 degrees 58 minutes 00 seconds East 1019.73 feet along said North line to the East line of the West 43 Acres of the North fractional 1/2 of said Northwest 1/4; thence South 00 degrees 38 minutes 33 seconds East 1027.04 feet along said East line; thence South 89 degrees 58 minutes 00 seconds West 886.11 feet parallel with said North line to the Centerline of Davidson Road; thence North 03 degrees 58 minutes 18 seconds West 428.66 feet along said Centerline; thence North 07 degrees 53 minutes 18 seconds West 203.52 feet along said Centerline; thence North 08 degrees 46 minutes 47 seconds West 268.16 feet along said Centerline; thence North 19 degrees 07 minutes 00 seconds West 140.40 feet along said Centerline to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #403574F01 (07-05)(07-26) 77569167 Call 269-945-9554 anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, July 19, 2012 — Page 13 POLICE BEAT Mental health experts Embezzlement suspected in soccer club Hastings Police began an investigation June 1 involving the Hastings Select Soccer Club. According to the organization’s management, a local bank had alerted them to a possible forgery situation involving a credit card check in the amount of $500. The bank met with the club’s president and determined the check had been forged. A subsequent investigation revealed that the club’s treasurer, a 40-year-old Hastings woman, is suspected of misappropriating club funds of more than $6,500 and converting them to her own use. The suspect allegedly diverted money normally used to pay for soccer officials to her own account. The suspect was arrested July 17 and formally arraigned shortly after her arrest. She has been charged with embezzlement and uttering and publishing. Driver suspected of multiple illegalities A Hastings officer was in the area of East State Street and Boltwood Street July 14 when he observed a vehicle with a defective headlight. Officers learned the 28-year-old female driver had a suspended license and noticed an open container of liquor in the rear seat. A subsequent search revealed evidence of other suspected illegal activity. The woman was arrested for operating on a suspended license, and the evidence was taken from the car sent to a forensic lab for further analysis. Son is drunk, loud and obnoxious Hastings Police were called to a home in the 700 block of East Thorn Street July 10. The caller reported her son was intoxicated and causing a disturbance in the home. Officers found the 22-year-old son had already left the residence and was a block away. Central dispatch informed officers the individual had a valid felony warrant for destruction of police property in an adjacent county. The man was taken into custody and transported to the proper county. Woman wrestles over car registration Hastings Police were dispatched to a residence in the 500 block o East State Road July 12 for a reported domestic situation. Once there, officers learned a 20-year-old woman had been arguing with her 23-year-old male friend. Reportedly, the two had argued over the use of a vehicle, and the man had started to remove the vehicle’s registration plate. The woman admitted to pushing the man when he would not listen to her reasoning. According to the woman, she was pushed back, and then she put the man into a headlock. The two separated at some point, and the man left just prior to police arrival. No injuries were reported. When questioned, the man supported the series of events as portrayed by his girlfriend. The report was sent to the prosecutor’s office for review. Man charged for activity inside jail An inmate at the Barry County Jail was arraigned July 18 on charges that stem from an investigation. A bond of $150,000 was set on the charge of assault with intent to do great bodily harm less than murder. probably here for me.” The 34-year-old Canton man said he and his wife were at the inn for a friend’s wedding. He told deputies his wife did not drink often, but when she did drink, she became violent and out of control. The man said his wife had been drinking that day and bit him hard on the finger, and he pushed her. Deputies spoke with the woman in her hotel room. Deputies reported seeing a woman’s blouse with blood spots in the room and more blood on the bed sheets. A lamp shade also appeared to be bent. She told deputies her husband had been drinking tequila all day, and she had only a couple glasses of wine. After the reception, the couple were on their way back to their room, according to the woman, and the husband became angry. She said he called her names for two hours and then became physical by twisting her arm behind her back and pushing her down four times, then shoved her against the wall. That’s when she bit the man and ran out of the room for help. The man was arrested for domestic violence. Both husband and wife were given breath tests. The man’s blood alcohol level was .225 percent, and the woman’s registered .00 percent. Man goes to jail for Beer Nuts The manager of the L&J Variety Store in Freeport called 911 and told dispatchers a man had taken two bags of beer nuts, some beef jerky and a can of beer. She said the man had left on foot, southbound on Fighter Road, wearing blue jeans and a blue shirt. Two witness said the man seemed intoxicated and smelled of alcohol. Deputies made contact with the man and asked him if he had taken something from the store, which he denied. The 37-year-old Hastings man began heading for the treeline at a fast walk, deputies pursued the man after he had laid down in a corn field, was crawling through the corn and when spotted got up and ran into the woods where he was then subdued. The man was also wanted on a warrant for failure to appear in court. A Breathalyzer test registered .17 percent. He was arrested for retail fraud, third degree; resisting and obstructing; probation violation; and the valid warrant. The report was forwarded to the prosecutor’s office for review. Lake resident trolls for answers Deputies were called to a Culbert Drive residence in Hastings July 11 where a resident told deputies a trolling motor and battery had been stolen from his boat on Leach Lake during the night. He said the battery had been pulled out of its plastic holding box. He suspected nobody at the time and said he would talk to his neighbors to obtain any additional information. The case is inactive pending suspect information. Cats and stereo are free to go A man reported stereo equipment stolen from his car July 9. He said his car was parked in the garage of his Middleville residence. The man said he leaves his garage door open slightly for his cats to come and go as they please. He told deputies July 4 he was using the car stereo to play music in his yard and one of the area residents may have targeted the car at that point. He discussed his theory of the thieves using an area Dumpster to transport the stolen equipment from one house to the other. The complainant said 50 CDs were taken along with $1,700 in stereo equipment. Flying deer head ends Divorce not final; man a day at the beach Deputies were called to a Thorpe Road resgets black eye idence in Delton July 2 for a domestic assault. A man went to the Barry County Sheriff’s Department to report an assault situation July 9. The man, who had a bruise around his left eye, told deputies he was at a Torsten Drive residence in Shelbyville with a woman and had a few drinks. Her estranged husband arrived and was angry, he said. The man told deputies the 46-year-old husband punched him five times before he started punching back and then put him in a headlock. When the husband calmed down, the complainant said he left the residence with the woman, and her husband was still there. When deputies contacted the husband, he said the man and his wife were in bed when he arrived. He told deputies the man needs to stay away from his wife because the divorce papers are not finalized. The case is closed because the complainant did not wish to pursue charges. Wedding guest has another tequila sunrise Deputies dispatched to a hotel on Marsh Road, Orangeville Township, for a reported domestic assault when they were met by a man at the inn’s door who said, “You are A woman told deputies her 29-year-old boyfriend had verbally and physically abused her. The man had left, and she said he may be somewhere around the Orangeville grocery store. She told authorities she and her friends had been at the beach in Muskegon the previous day and returned to the residence early in the morning. She said upon returning, she found her boyfriend sleeping and noticed his phone in the trash can. When she retrieved the phone, the man woke up and became irate about the woman holding his phone. She said they started yelling at each other, and when she tried to call the police he broke the phone. She said the man then threw her car keys outside the house, so she went to the neighbor’s home. The man then left the residence in his car. When deputies located the man, he told them his girlfriend was always accusing him of cheating on her. He told deputies when he tried to take his phone back, the woman jumped on his back and continued to ask him what he was hiding. As the argument escalated, he said the woman took a deer head mount off the wall and threw it out the window, so he threw her car keys into the backyard. The case has been turned over to the prosecutor’s office. testify in Terpening case by David DeDecker Staff Writer Staking out their stance for the upcoming trial of Michael Terpening, attorneys for the alleged child molester brought to the stand a psychiatrist, a psychologist, and a webpage designer for a July 13 motion hearing before Judge Amy McDowell in Barry County Circuit Court. Dr. Kam Tatineni is a psychiatrist who worked with several of the tenants of Michael Terpening’s youth home. Tatineni has been practicing psychiatry since 1976 and sees patients in Battle Creek, Kalamazoo and Marshall. The defense was interested in two specific tenants who are alleged victims and witnesses in the case. Tatenini testified the two boys had mental health conditions and he prescribed specific medications to treat those diagnosed conditions. Dr. Randy Haugen is a psychologist concentrating in the areas of abuse and neglect, and sexual abuse since 1990 . He practices in several counties in south Michigan. Defense attorney Thomas Schaeffer questioned both mental health experts as to the possibility that medical conditions and medications could alter memory and perception of events. He also questioned if those same conditions could affect the patients’ ability to tell the truth. Both experts replied that, in general, it is possible. For the diagnosed conditions and with the medications prescribed, it can also on occasion, have such an affect on memory and behavior. After hearing both experts, Judge Amy McDowell weighed testimony relevancy against patient privacy and ruled that only certain private medical information may be addressed by either party in the upcoming Terpening trial. She also ruled the subject of certain past sexual conduct of one of the witnesses is also to be excluded. The court then turned its attention to Robert Dewey, the owner and manager of www.michaelterpening.com, a website dedicated to compiling information about Terpening’s cases. Dewey, from Comstock Park, was ordered to appear in court by the Terpening defense after he did not appear in court when subpoenaed at an earlier date. His attorney, Marcel Stoetzel, argued that the earlier subpoena had not been served properly and so his client was not obligated to appear. Schaeffer questioned Dewey’s information sources and wondered how he was able to post so much information, so quickly after three of Terpening’s court appearances. Schaefer inferred Dewey had an inside source feeding him sensitive information. Dewey told the court he has filed several Freedom of Information Act requests and Requests for Court Services. He said he requested information, on the Terpening case, from the Michigan State Police and found the fee for the information was too expensive and did not pursue the information. When pressed to reveal his source for a certain court date related to Terpening’s bond conditions, Dewey provided the name of witness Jennifer McCloud. He declined to reveal any other sources unless his attorney advised him to do so, which Stoetzel did not. After consideration of the testimony, McDowell ruled Dewey had not violated the gag order she had ordered early this year. In other case business, the defense and the assistant attorney general agreed to consult on 700 Facebook pages concerning Terpening conversations online and phone records of defendant Terpening. Terpening is charged with over a dozen Grantham case gets special prosecutor Victor Fitz, a special prosecutor from Cass County, will be taking over the James Grantham Sr. case for the Barry County Prosecutor’s Office. When defense attorney James Goulooze put Assistant Prosecutor Larry Lewis on his witness list, the prosecutor’s office requested a special prosecutor as required by law. Grantham, along with his wife and son, was accused of attacking a Barry County Sheriff’s Deputy in their Middleville home Sept. 11, 2011. The deputy was at the Grantham residence to serve a warrant on James Grantham Jr. Grantham’s wife and son agreed to plea bargains from the prosecutor’s office and were sentenced March 23 by Judge Amy McDowell. At that time, even though he was offered a plea deal, Grantham Sr. and Goulooze decided to reject the deal and go to trial instead. The elder Grantham’s pretrial date with the special prosecutor is set for July 25, with a tentative trial date of Sept. 10. criminal sexual conduct acts with boys under his authority at the Bellevue youth home Earth Services. He is also charged with insurance fraud. Terpening is tentatively scheduled to be back in court on Aug. 28 for more legal motions. His expected two- or three-week trial is scheduled for Oct. 22. COURT NEWS Jeffery Scott Marston, 50, of Shelbyville was sentenced July 12 for operating under the influence of liquor, third offense. Marston was ordered to serve 12 months in jail with credit for six days served. He must pay $1,198 in court assessments and serve 36 months on probation. Marston also was ordered to attend Alcoholics Anonymous three times a week. Charges of operating with license suspended, revoked or denied, second or subsequent offense; having an open con- tainer of alcohol in vehicle; and habitual offender, fourth offense, were dropped. Jerry Clinton Harston, 40, of Hastings was sentenced July 11 for domestic violence and for assaulting, resisting or obstructing a police officer. Harston was ordered to serve 18 to 36 months in prison. He must pay $348 in court assessments. Charges of aggravated stalking and habitual offender, fourth offense, were dropped. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 Business Services Antiques Estate Sale BOOKKEEPING SERVICES Personal * Self-Employed * Small Business Payroll * Billing Accounts Receivable * Accounts Payable General Ledger Weekly * Monthly * Quarterly * Annually Call today! (269)420-5714 ALLEGAN ANTIQUE MARKET: Sunday, July 29th. 400 exhibitors, rain or shine. 8:00am-4:00pm. Located at the fairgrounds right in Allegan, MI. $4.00 admission. NO PETS. CALEDONIA ESTATE/MOVING SALE, 8230 100th Street, SE. Tuesday, July 24th, 9am-5pm; Wednesday, July 25th, 9am1pm; numbers and garage @ 8:30am Tuesday. A spacious home that also includes a large in-law apartment. Plenty of parking on the property. You can easily get lost in this house. Lovely dark oak antique secretary, dark antique buffet, antique dresser by Luce Furniture Co., Grand Rapids, MI, antique library table, cute vintage school desk/chair combo, vintage toy chest, old Radio Flyer wagon, sofa and La-Z-Boy reclining sectional, many end and coffee tables, chairs and lamps, three complete bedroom sets with sleep sets (2) queen, 1 full). Cochrane dining set w/2 leaves and 4 chairs, lovely 7’ large glass curio cabinet, smaller 6’ glass curio, bar stools and chairs, 2 complete kitchens, Corelle and Pyrex, barware, Kimball piano and bench, like new Fitmaster massage table, office furniture, 3 wood high chairs and 2 child’s rocking chairs, table w/4 chairs, 2 sets of fireplace tools, Sears and Kenmore sewing machines, complete set (25) of Hummel plates, 1971-1995 with boxes, being sold as a set. Huge collection of Hummel figurines and most with boxes. Seasonal items, hoe decor and toys from the 1970’s and 1980’s, yard and garden tools, lots of softball equipment, John Deere 318 riding lawn mower with 980 hours, 3 sets of golf clubs and so much more. A terrific, clean sale. You need to plan on spending some time here. Go to EstateSales.net to view over 50 photos. Please note that our sign up sheet goes out the night before the sale. Sale by: The Cottage House Antiques Estate and Moving Sales, (616)901-9898. Lawn & Garden AQUATIC PLANTS: OUR Lotus & Water Lilies are ready! Also Koi & Goldfish, pumps, filters & pond supplies. APOLS WATER GARDENS, 9340 Kalamazoo, Caledonia MI. (616)698Real Estate 1030 M-F 9:00-5:30, Sat 9:00ACREAGE: 70 ACRES roll- 2:00. ing, wooded and beautiful. For Rent Great location to build custom home or cabin. Great 2 BEDROOMS, 2 full baths price $280,000. Call Bill Sik- mobile home, secluded. Lots kema 269-488-0576, Pruden- of wildlife. $575 a month, tial Preferred, Realtors. 1st, last & security (269)9534128 ROY HALL’S AUTO & BOATDETAILING: 25 years serving Barry County, (269)948-8377. Help Wanted 25 DRIVER TRAINEES Needed NOW! Become a driver for Schneider National! Earn $750 per week! No experience needed! Local CDL Training! Job ready in 15 days! 1-877-649-2697. DRIVERS: Dedicated Home Daily! Sign-on Bonus- $1000! Great Miles, Money, More! CDL-A. 1yr OTR. MTS: 800748-0192 x208/x214 DRIVERS: REGIONAL & OTR. CDL-A. Great Pay & Hometime. Avg. 20002200mi/wk. Teams & O/O Welcome. Jamie/Eric: 563579-3421 or 888-912-7342 Recreation WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are interested in leasing acreage for this years deer season. Call (269)795-3049 National Ads THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is deceptive, fraudulent or might otherwise violate law or accepted standards of taste. However, this publication does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the quality of goods or services advertised. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made in any advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you ask for money in advance of delivery of goods or services advertised. MIDDLE LAKE RENTAL: 1BD apartment. All appliances included, washer, dryer, central air. 1st months rent plus security deposit. Call Joe (269)838-2650. Garage Sale GARAGE SALE. Antiques, furniture, crystal lamps, toys, firls clothes more. Friday-Saturday, July 20th-21at, 9am-3pm, 121 Country Club Drive, Hastings. MULTI FAMILYDAYCARE sale: Thursday, July 19th, Friday, July 20th, 95pm. 819 E. Mill St., Hastings. Baby boy clothes infant -teen girls and boys, bouncers, baby bath, walker, toys, Fox Motocross gear, TV’s, digital camera, camcorder, music CD’s, children’s books, bikes, and so much more! No early sales PLEASE! For Sale 100% WOOD HEAT- No worries. Keep your families safe & warm with a Classic Outdoor Wood Furnace from Central Boiler. Call SOS your “Stocking Dealer” Dutton, MI (616)554-8669 or (616)915-5061. ESTATE SALE: July 20th & 21st 9am-5pm at the corner of Norris & M-179, 970 Norris Rd. in the Yankee Springs area. AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call ESTATE/MOVING SALES: for a free quote. Diamond by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. Propane 269-367-9700 (269)795-8717 or (616)901TOTAL WOOD HEAT. 9898. Safe, clean, efficient and comfortable Outdoor Wood Furnace from Central Boiler. D-2 Outdoor Wood Boilers. (616)877-4081. PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: Automotive 1990 THUNDERBIRD SUPER CHARGER: works, needs a little TLC, $850 obo. (616)889-2024. Immediate Openings RN/LPN PRIVATE DUTY Nashville, Marshall, Springport, Jackson Trach / Vent Experience Preferred FT/PT Days/Nights Please send resume to: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. recruiter@optimalstaffing.com or fax to: 517-394-7716 77564784 �Page 14 — Thursday, July 19, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. 77569500 TK’s VanPutten named All-State in baseball The performance by Dylan VanPutten in his senior season for the Thornapple Kellogg varsity baseball team this spring has earned him All-State honors. VanPutten was recently named first team All-State in Division 2 by the Michigan High School Baseball Coaches Association. He batted .462 this season, playing in all 38 games for the Trojans. He had seven home runs, seven triples and six doubles among his 49 hits. Those 49 hits helped him drive in 49 runs throughout the course of the year. VanPutten also scored 39 runs. His total of 26 walks was twice as many as the next highest Trojan batter’s total. VanPutten spent most of his senior season at first base, while also doing some pitching and playing a few innings at shortstop. He will continue his baseball career at Central Michigan University. 77569462 GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Certified Financial Planning Cranes and grain A pair of sand hill cranes stands out against the golden color of recently harveted wheat in a field near Middleville last week. Warm temperatures in March gave the wheat a jump start, and hot dry weather in June and July contributed to an early harvest. (Photo by Julie Makarewicz) ® Randy Teegardin, CFP. Hastings City Bank Trust and Investment Group 269-945-2401 150 W. Court St. Hastings, MI 49058 BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY Investment opportunities include non deposit investments which are: Not FDIC Insured Not Bank Guaranteed May Lose Value 77569459 by Gerald Stein 77569466 77569464 77569468 LARGE or small, We Ship It All! 1351 N.Broadway (M-43) Hastings 269.945.9105 OPEN MON.-FRI. 8:30 - 5:30 by Gerald Stein In last week’s column, we explored why beginning bridge players have a difficult time winning at the bridge table. This week, once again revisiting S. J. Simon’s main premise, Why You Lose at Bridge, we will take a look at what happens to players who have played many years of bridge. What are some hints and tips that might help experienced players win more often? Many of today’s bridge players began playing bridge in the 1960s and 1970s. Bridge as a social event was popular in many cities and towns, including Barry County and Hastings in particular. There were bridge tournaments that extended for eight or nine months, and by far, these were primarily social events with hands of bridge as a means of putting couples together for an evening of social entertainment. Bridge in the 1960s and 1970s was largely influenced by one big name: Charles Goren. With his TV show in the late 1950s, numerous books, magazine articles, and syndicated newspaper bridge columns, Charles Goren did much to influence the popularity of the game. Many players learned to play the Goren-style of bridge, including four-card majors as openers, the short club, strong two-bids, a strong no-trump opening bid, and the Blackwood convention for seeking out or avoiding a slam hand. While these methods proved reliable for many years, new thinking and changes gradually began to change the shape of bridge and bridge bidding in particular. In the 1980s and 1990s, and into the 21st century, better communication through a change in bidding has come about. While nothing truly startling, the bidding in the post-Goren era lets many experienced players and certainly newer players enter into a more accurate and more defined way of communication. Learning new conventions, learning new ways of counting points with length instead of distribution, and finding more competition from players who have taken bridge classes to learn some “new tricks” have made bridge a better game. These bridge students were not disappointed in the time they put into evening or daytime bridge classes. It made them better players. It seem appropriate then to suggest that taking a refresher class or two in modern bridge bidding would certainly open new doors and make you a better bridge player. That is one positive way to eliminate the losing trends that you may have had. Even learning a new convention or two might be fun and helpful. Do you know and use the Stayman convention? It is one of the most popular bridge conventions available for the bridge player at any level. An hour or two of learning, practicing, and then using this oft-used convention will be a bonus to your bridge playing. Your bidding will become more accurate, and you will end up bidding and playing at the game level more often instead of settling for part-scores. No longer will you go home missing out on the top prizes of the evening. After all, a dollar is a dollar, right? As the American Contract Bridge League celebrates its 75th year of providing bridge ideas, bridge lessons, and bridge entertainment to players everywhere, consider buying, using, or taking classes with their texts as a guide. The original set was call the Club, Diamond, Heart, Spade and No Trump Series, and was authored by Canadian bridge educator Audrey Grant specifically for the American Contract Bridge League’s use with players who wanted to learn the newer ideas of bridge. Now, the series has been improved and expanded by ABCL writers and instructors to form the basis for five bridge classes: the first is call “Bidding in the 21st Century.” The second text is “Play of the Hand in the 21st Century,” while the third one is “Defense in the 21st Century.” The fourth and fifth volumes are called “Commonly Used Conventions in the 21st Century,” and “More Commonly Used Conventions in the 21st Century.” Each of the texts consists of eight or nine chapters on new ieas in bridge with plenty of examples and exercises for individual study or group study in a bridge class. With plenty of bridge material, it is a helpful way to improve your bridge game. A side benefit of learning a new convention or a new method is sharing that new bit of knowledge with others. Bridge players are sharers; they like to discuss new and improved ways of playing bridge and being successful at it. Who doesn’t want to win at bridge? After learning a new way of doing things in the bridge world, you will want to share your new-found knowledge with your partner, your friends with whom you play bridge, or your bridge group. All of a sudden, you have become a bridge instructor, and you are sharing the fascinating ideas of bridge. Share your knowledge, and watch your own bridge game improve. How can you as a bridge player of many years improve your game? Work on your game by taking courses for fun. Read bridge books from the public library. Go to sites like Amazon and Baron Barclay and see how many hundreds of bridge titles pop up for your reading pleasure. Just knowing that you are learning new ways will be a positive reinforcement for your game. You will grow in confidence. You will know that you are no longer the 97-pound weakling in the bridge world. You will stand up, and you will roar. Now go out there and win! ***** The following bridge classes will begin in October in our area: In Hastings, at the KCC Fehsenfeld Center, “Bidding in the 21st Century” starts on October 3 in the morning. In Battle Creek, “Defense in the 21st Century” starts on October 1 in the morning. Another beginning class will be offered in Attle Creek in the evening of October 3. Watch for future announcements. Visit the American Contract Bridge League site: www.acbl.org <http://www.acbl.org> for free bridge software. ***** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, July 19, 2012 — Page 15 Winless Lakewood 10U baseball team ends season in championship play by Bonnie Mattson Staff Writer The Lakewood age 10 and under baseball team had an 0-16 record for the season, but in true underdog fashion, players fought hard and worked as a team to earn the 2012 State of Michigan Pony League runner-up trophy in the Mason Pony League, according to head coach Jason Makley. The Lakewood 10U team beat two Eaton Rapids teams and Fowlerville to advance to the championship game where they finished as runners-up. In the semi-final game against Eaton Rapids, Carsen DeLeeuw hit a home run to tie it up in the sixth inning. The game went an extra four innings until Lakewood finally won with a bases-loaded infield hit by Austin Makley that resulted in an error by Eaton Rapids, allowing the winning run to score. After a 20-minute break, the team played in the championship game against Mason which the Lakewood team lost. Home run hitters for the season were John Hewitt, Hunter Kemp and Carsen DeLeeuw. Mud flies at the fair Though the grass is brittle and the ground is dry, mud was flying Monday night in front of the grandstands at the Barry County Fair. The Off-Road challenge featured timed runs through the pit, an obstacle course and sideby-side drag races for fun, along with the best freestyle. The Lakewood 10U baseball team runners up in the 2012 State of Michigan Pony League include (front row, from left) coach Kurt Kemp, Hunter Kemp, Mason Neustifter, Ethan Erickson, Levi Poortenga, Clayton Cooper, Hunter Lawson (back) coach Duffy McClelland, Sam McClelland, John Hewitt, Austin Makley, Carsen DeLeeuw, Martin Hollern, Bryant Makley, head coach Jason Makley. Not Pictured is coach Scott Neustifter. A Ford Bronco sends mud flying in all directions during the Mud Run in front of the grandstand Monday at the Barry County Fair. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Players rush home plate after the winning run scores as Lakewood 10U baseball beats Eaton Rapids to advance to the finals. MHSAA provides online hot weather and hydration resources The extreme temperatures this summer, in advance of the start of another season of high school sports, give cause for concern about physical activity in such conditions. The Michigan High School Athletic Association continues its role in providing member schools information to help them minimize the possibility of heat-related catastrophic injuries to student-athletes. The topic of heat-related injuries receives a lot of attention this time of year, especially when deaths at the professional, collegiate and interscholastic levels of sport occur, and especially since they are preventable in most cases with the proper precautions. In football, data from the National Federation of State High School Associations shows that 35 high school players died from heat stroke between 1995 and 2010. A modified Jeep finds a wet spot on the track during the Mud Run Monday evening at the Barry County Fair. (Photo by Perry Hardin) A couple of "monster" trucks drag race in front of the grandstand during the Mud Run Monday evening at the Barry County Fair. (Photo by Perry Hardin) J-Ad Graphics and the Hastings Athletic Boosters proudly presents THE BUZZ YOUNGS LEGENDS GOLF CLASSIC Saturday, August 4th, 2012 at River Bend Golf Course 4-Person Scramble • 9:00 a.m. Shot Gun Start — Cash Prizes — $75.00 per person First… 500 • Second… 300 2 Blind Draws… $100 each includes: greens fee for 18 holes of golf, shared power cart and dinner. $ Closest to the pin - Long Drives (Males/Females), 50/50 closest to the pin, Skins game (optional), Raffle table. MHSAA recommends that fall practices begin with acclimation, rather than conditioning, and stresses vigilant hydration during on and off the field or court. Each year, the MHSAA helps its member schools prepare for hot-weather practice and game conditions in the late summer and early fall. Football practice can begin at MHSAA member schools Aug. 6, followed by all other fall sports Aug. 8. Even before the days of the Internet, MHSAA was providing resources each spring in preparation for hot pre-season practices. That same information is now available online for all interested parties to utilize, including a link to a free online course, “A Guide to Heat Acclimatization and Heat Illness Prevention,” produced by the National Federation of State High School Associations. The health and safety resources page of the MHSAA website has a set of frequently asked questions about dehydration and a page dedi- $ LEGENDS… An athlete taking a break squirts water onto her face to help cool her body. cated to hydration and heat illness where pre- our website and through other sources, and to ventative steps are outlined, as well as the take the online course through the national signs and symptoms of heat illness and action federation.” Roberts added that the first days of formal steps to take when it is observed. Visit www.mhsaa.com/Schools/HealthSafetyReso practices in hot weather should be more for heat acclimatization than the conditioning of urces.aspx. “Heat stroke is almost always preventa- athletes, and that practices in such conditions ble,” said John E. “Jack” Roberts, executive need planning to become longer and more director of the MHSAA. “We know now more strenuous over a gradual progression of time. “Then, schools need to be vigilant about than we ever have about when the risk is high and who is most at risk, and we’re fortunate to providing water during practices, making sure be able to communicate that information bet- that youngsters are partaking of water, and ter than ever before to administrators, coach- educating their teams about the need for good es, athletes and parents. We encourage every- hydration practices away from the practice one to avail themselves of the information on and competition fields,” Roberts said. Jock Clarey, Lew Lang, Jack Hoke, Robert Carlson, Patricia Murphy, Richard Guenther, Bruce McDowell, Bernie Oom, Tony Turkal, Robert VanderVeen, Dr. Jim Atkinson, Carl Schoessel, Larry Melendy, Cynthia Robbe, William Karpinski, Ernest Strong, Dennis Storrs, Earlene, Larry Baum, Dave Furrow, Judy Anderson, Tom Brighton, Jeff Simpson, Jack Longstreet, Denny O’Mara, 2012 Legend Michael Murphy. To sign up please call... Nancy Schoessel at 269-945-2742 or email hastingsathleticboosters@gmail.com 77569498 �Page 16 — Thursday, July 19, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Three days left to take in the 160th Barry County Fair Conner Shea of Middleville tries log rolling for the first time and finds it’s a lot harder than it looks. He’s about to go for a dunk in the cool water as the log begins to roll away from him. The Great Lakes Timber Show has daily programs at the Barry County Fair through Saturday. A log rolling demonstration and attempts from volunteer audience members are just part of the show. Area residents and guests, too, have three more days to visit the 160th Barry County Fair, which runs through Saturday, July 21. The fair board is doing its best to keep visitors cool. Misting hoses are set up and running throughout the fairgrounds. Fans are running at top speed throughout the barns and exhibit areas. Some organizations are giving away bottled water or water by the cup and a cooling tent is set up to give visitors a break from the heat. Courtesy golf carts help fair-goers get from one end of the grounds to the other. Parking is free every day. Admission for children ages 12 and younger also is free every day. Adult daily admission is $5 per day or $15 for a weekly pass. There’s something for everyone at the fair — from livestock shows to grandstand auto shows and races, musical entertainment, midway rides and games and lots of food. Nightly grandstand activities include autocross tonight, motocross Friday, and demolition derby Saturday. The birthing tent has been busy, too. From Tuesday evening to Wednesday morning, two litters of pigs, two lambs and one calf were born in the Miracle of Birth Tent. Chicks hatch daily, and several ducklings waddle about. More lambs and calves are expected to make their entrance to the world at the Barry County Fair. Kids camping at the fair take a break from showing and caring for their animals Tuesday and try to beat the near-100-degree heat. Buckets of cold water seem to do the trick. 4-Hers had to take special caution Tuesday during the heat for themselves and their livestock. Animals were watered regularly, sprayed with water, and kept cool by fans. Trophies and awards are ready for presentation at the start of the goat show Monday. The community tent is a source of free entertainment. Karaoke starts at 7 p.m. tonight. Friday night will bring the Country Music Jamboree at 7 p.m., featuring some local favorites, including Bushwacker and Friends, Bert Jones and Co., Dan and Dee Country Roots, and the Williams Family Bluegrass band. Saturday evening brings the Taste of Barry County, followed by the 4-H dance to close out the week. Youngsters have been busy with 4-H projects, livestock shows and contests. The dairy and dairy feeder shows are today, along with the small animal auction. The large animal livestock sale is Friday, and the show of champions is Saturday morning. The Great 4-H Race returns for the second year Saturday afternoon. 4-H horse show competitions take place daily throughout the week. New this year is the Great Lakes Timber Show with three daily programs located across from the Farm Bureau Tent. Returning favorites will be the bingo tent, Barnyard Express, Miracle of Birth tent, Taste of Barry County and the antique tractor club displays, demonstrations and competitions. Emily Shepard works quickly to finish her original recipe in the 4-H cooking competition Monday. The first of two baby lambs stands for the first time after arriving Tuesday evening at the Barry County Fair in the Miracle of Birth Tent. Within minutes, its twin arrived. Within hours, two litters of pigs were born, along with a calf. Clayton Sines is king of the tractors — a favorite place for kids at the Barry County Fair. Elaine Brauer washes a show bird at the Barry County Fair. 4-H members must keep their show animals clean, not just for judging, but throughout the fair. Some days, the animals are bathed or misted to help keep them cool. 07604549 Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, P.C. 840 Cook Road Hastings, MI 49058 Call Today: 537 W. Main Street Ionia, MI 48846 (269) 945-9520 (800) 596-1005 551 Linn Street Allegan, MI 49010 Visit us online: www.hoc-mi.com Emily Casarez waits patiently for her turn to show her rabbit during Sunday’s 4-H competition. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-07-26.pdf 091cbd54b0c6ee03a237d332ff78f59b PDF Text Text Commission gets rough road report What builds a great business? Middleville man wins at Berlin See Story on Page 15 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 17 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 30 NEWS BRIEFS Fountain series to host Dixieland band July 27, the Fridays at the Fountain Series will add Dixieland jazz to the lineup for the first time when the Jackson French Quarter Dixieland Band comes to Hastings. The band was formed in 1984, when a group of Consumers Power co-workers from Jackson discovered a mutual interest in Dixieland-style jazz. The group has operated continuously since, playing about once a week, and performing at private birthday and anniversary celebrations, reunions, weddings, funerals and other events. Featuring a repertoire of more than 150 songs, the band performs from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula into northern Ohio, and from Lake Michigan to Lake Erie. The fountain series features concerts every Friday throughout the summer on the Barry County Courthouse lawn in downtown Hastings. Concerts start at noon and conclude at 1:30 p.m. In the event of rain, the concerts move indoors to the community room at the Hastings City Bank, 150 W. Center St. Bosley Pharmacy entering fifth decade with a party Bosley Pharmacy, on South Jefferson Street in Hastings, has been a fixture in the city for more than 40 years. To celebrate this long history of service to the community, the folks at Bosley are throwing a party. The event will be from 7 to 11 p.m. Friday, July 27, in the parking lot behind the store. This anniversary celebration will be complete with food provided by the County Seat Restaurant and Lounge, as well as music by the Thornapple Jazz Orchestra and the Tony LaJoye Trio. Bosley Pharmacy can trace its origins back to the second drug store established in Hastings. J.P. Roberts opened the first drug store in 1851. By 1857, F.D. Ackley was in town and opened the second store. Through the years, the store had various owners and names. In May of 1970, Robert Lapo sold his store to James Bosley of Ionia, hiring Dave Jasperse to be the manager. In April 1984, Dave and Emily Jasperse bought the store and still own it today. The Medbug prescription delivery service was added in 2004. Residents are encouraged to join the party and have some food and lemonade, listen to some music, and wish the folks well as they enter their fifth decade as Bosley Pharmacy. Free water testing available The Barry Conservation District will screen drinking water well samples for nitrates Aug. 10 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The free screening is sponsored by the Barry Conservation District and the Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program. Samples from drinking water wells will be screened for nitrates and nitrites. The screening is open to anyone who uses a personal well for drinking water; the number of samples that can be tested is limited to three per household. Samples should be taken to the Barry Conservation District office, 1611 S. Hanover St., Hastings. Information and forms are also available at the office or by calling Rachel Koleda, MAEAP technician, 269-9488056. BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, July 26, 2012 Hastings presents school deficit-reduction plan to state by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Tuesday, July 24, the Michigan Department of Education received Hastings Area Schools’ deficit reduction plan; and while the state has an undetermined amount of time to review the plan and suggest changes, the district has to begin implementing the plan if it hopes to emerge from its deficit. “If you didn’t do anything going into this year, we proposed some additional compensation reductions and position reductions. If we didn’t do those, you would continue with the deficit in the current year, 2012-13... by 2014, you are just barely ahead,” said the school district’s financial consultant Don Sovey. “I think the plan and projection is the best the district can do right now.” During his presentation to the school board Monday evening, Sovey said the deficitreduction plan he would present to the MDE the following day would have minor changes in some numbers and how they were presented from the one approved by the board in June as part of the district’s long-range financial plan. “This is based on the long-term projection, which you already approved; the numbers are almost identical,” said Sovey. “Jeff Kolb [a MDE financial analyst], who is the first person who sees this at the department of ed, has seen it and asked me to make a minor change that is incorporated in here, simply in the presentation.” While it was originally anticipated that Hastings Area Schools will end the 2011-12 fiscal year $535,081 in the red, the district actually finished the year with a lower deficit of $430,797. Based on enrollment, operating costs, revenues and other factors, if the district follows the plan and continues to look for ways to reduce costs and increase revenues, Sovey projected the following year-end fund balances: June 30, 2013, $1,210,865, or 6 percent (22 days of operation); June 30, 2014, $1,481,267, or 7.2 percent (26 days); June 30, 2015, $898,025, or 4.2 percent (15 days). Sovey said the fund balance will drop in 2015 because, based on projections, the district will once again be looking at expenses exceeding revenue and may need to dip into its fund balance to offset the difference. “There’s some big considerations that I think you need to think of between now and next year and even this fall,” he told the board “The House and Senate are in discussions on revisions to the retirement [program]. The way that school districts would be affected, for Hastings it’s pretty significant. The first year, 2013, if it passed the House version, it would mean $400,000 more to your situation. The second year, 2013-14, it’s even better — over a million dollars. This means a lot to Hastings and a lot of other school districts.” Sovey said if the retirement changes pass the House and Senate, the budget reduction plan will change. Enrollment is another factor that will impact the deficit reduction plan, he said. While the deficit reduction plan is based on a loss of 50 students per year, current projections for the district give an average loss of 57 students per year for the next three years. “What we have is a district going from a negative $430,000 to a positive $1,210,00 and then a positive $1,4000, then dropping to $898,000,” he said. “What you have here is a challenge. You need to monitor the enrollment going forward; but the retirement piece is big, too. “It really is up to the school district to solve this issue; I think that is going to be one of [MDE’s] messages ... to come together as a community and solve this,” said Sovey. In other business, the board: • Authorized Superintendent Todd Geerlings to establish a homeschool partnership, establish course offerings, hire a coordi- See DEFICIT PLAN, page 8 Michigan Avenue bridge opening delayed Construction on the Michigan Avenue bridge has experienced some delays with underground utility work and will not open to traffic Aug. 10 as planned. The bridge’s opening ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 18. The entire bridge project remains on schedule for the end of August. Crews continue to work evenings and Saturdays to complete one of just two north-south thoroughfares in Hastings. Visitors flock to 2012 Barry County Fair attractions by Julie Makarewicz Staff Writer Dry, hot weather didn’t deter visitors from taking in the attractions at the this year’s Barry County Fair, which ended Saturday. Fair board President Dennis Redman said although official attendance numbers aren’t available yet, he believes it was an exception- al year. “This year’s fair was great. It went unbelievably well. The 4-H programs were good, the grandstand nights were well attended — overall it was very, very good,” he said. He expects attendance was probably lightest on Monday and Tuesday when temperatures soared into the high 90s and near 100 Rides of all shapes and sizes filled the midway during the 2012 Barry County Fair. (Photo by Perry Hardin) A youngster takes part in the 4-H Great Race balloon toss contest. He manages to catch the balloon without it breaking. (Photo by Julie Makarewicz) Carl Steffen from Caledonia uses his Oliver tractor to compete in the antique tractor pull at the fair. (Photo by Julie Makarewicz) degrees. But he said the Wednesday night rodeo at the grandstand, the demolition derby Saturday night, and the motocross Friday night were all sell-outs. The autocross on Thursday night was a near sell-out, as well. “The midway did very well all week long, and the vendors seemed busy” he said. “Things look good, especially from last year when the heat really affected atten- dance,” he said. Redman said fans in the livestock barns help keep the animals cooled off and, like last year, no livestock were lost this year at the fair despite the hot conditions. Misting hoses were again set up around the fairgrounds to help keep people cool. Planning for the 2013 fair has already start- See BARRY COUNTY FAIR, page 2 �Page 2 — Thursday, July 26, 2012 — The Hastings Banner BARRY COUNTY FAIR, continued from page 1 Urijah Schalk, 2, of Freeport takes ride on the cars at the midway. He liked it so much, he rode again and again. Hannah Noteboom, 6, rides the carousel at the midway during the Barry County Fair. A young contestant slides in the mud as part of the Great Race competition Saturday afternoon. In this portion of the contest, teams had to work their way through a muddy obstacle course carrying a greased watermelon. The Ferris wheel is always an attraction at the midway with riders getting a bird’s eye view of the fairgrounds. A new calf is born at the Miracle of Birth Tent at the fair. Throughout the week a calf, two lambs, and two litters of pigs (totaling nearly 30 piglets) were born, and several chicks hatched. Dana Grassmid and Brooke Wieland (right) concentrate while showing hogs in the show of champions contest. Grassmid was the senior representative from the cat project, and Wieland represented the beef project. Tyler and Austin VanVelsen take part in the fun and games horse contests. The riders must ride close enough to each other so the piece of toilet paper they hold does not break. The horses had to walk, trot, gallop and make turns. It was all part of the fun and games contests for riders near the end of the week. ed. Redman said he hopes to bring the same rodeo back for another year, and will likely continue the autocross and motocross races. The demolition derby will also likely be back. Committee members will look at attendance for other events and determine if changes should be made to try and attract more visitors. “Overall, it was an excellent week. It was a great fair,” said Redman. (See the Aug. 2 Banner for a special postfair supplement full of photos of winners and additional stories.) The free horse-drawn wagon rides provided by Don and Marge Solomon and family are back for another year at the fair and continue to be a popular attraction. Don’s dad, Russell Solomon, used to bring his teams of Percheron draft horses to the Barry County Fair, and Don has continued the tradition for several years at the new fairgrounds. Addison Javor, 5, of Hastings creates bubbles in the children’s garden at the fairgrounds. Non-livestock judging day fills the beef barn with contestants and a variety of projects Saturday, July 14. The best projects in each division were “held back” by judges, who then chose which projects would receive Outstanding honors and one from each project section to receive Best of Show. The tractor parade made of members of the Barry County Steam, Gas and Antique Machinery Association winding through the fairgrounds is a nightly ritual, giving visitors and campers a chance to see lots of tractors of all makes from all eras. 77569443 Cayden Snow, 6, of Hastings keeps pedaling toward the finish line in the pedal tractor pull at the fair. Photos by Julie Makarewicz �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, July 26, 2012 — Page 3 Art Park kicks off in Hastings’ 1st Ward Park by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer During its inaugural week, Hastings Art Park has drawn 35 to 40 students from not only Hastings but other communities around Barry County to learn the art of graffiti, under the tutelage of professional grafitti artists. The artists, Sam deBourbon from Lansing and Alex Clawson from Battle Creek, have been teaching the students about how to create a tag and tag name, outlining, filling, shading and detailing. They also have been teaching students the importance of respecting private property. “The artists stress that this is art, but they need to respect private property and not tag anything unless the owners have given them permission,” said Hastings Community Development Director John Hart. This week, students are working on creating individual tags, which will be part of an art installations in and around Hastings, as well as adding their tags to a larger piece created by deBourbon and Clawson. In coming weeks, participants will work on large-scale paper mache pieces (July 30 through Aug. 2), found object assemblage (Aug. 6 through 9) and outdoor art installa- Hastings Area Schools hire new director of business services tion during the final week (Aug. 13 to 16). The program will culminate with a closing reception from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 17. Art park is being sponsored by the Thornapple Arts Council, Barry Community Foundation and the City of Hastings. For more information about Art Park, call the art council, 269-945-2002, or log on to www.thornapplearts.org. For a more a more detailed story about Art Park, check the Saturday, July 28, edition of The Reminder. Students, teaching assistants and interns (clockwise, from left) teaching assistant Tom Bizet of Freeport, intern Hannah Alspaugh of Hastings, students Camille VanDien and Samantha Richardson of Hastings and Carissa Hoffman of Battle Creek work together on a graffiti project. Teens gather in the groups in the 1st Ward Park in Hastings to discuss and critique their graffiti tags. Grafitti artist and Art Park visiting artist Sam deBourbon works on the large installation on the fence of 1st Ward Park. Participants in the Art Park program work on priming boards they will use to create tags that will be part of an art installation in Hastings. Tim Berlin Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, P.C. • Kenneth S. Merriman, M.D. • Eric S. Leep, D.O. • James L. Horton, Jr., D.O. • David J. Heeringa, D.O. • Maria Benit, PA-C • Christopher Born, PA-C Providing Excellence. In the Art of Total Orthopedic Care Physical Medicine and Pain Management Accessible. Comprehensive. From left to right: James L. Horton, Jr., D.O., Orthopedic Surgeon; David J. Heeringa, D.O., Orthopedic Surgeon; Eric S. Leep, D.O., Physical Medicine; Kenneth S. Merriman, M.D., Orthopedic Surgeon. For more information on Hastings Orthopedic Clinic or to learn about all of our services, please visit us online at www.hoc-mi.com, scan our QR code below with your mobile device, or contact us directly at (269) 945-9520. 07605109 by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer As Hastings Area Schools begins a threeyear deficit-reduction plan, the Hastings Board of Education welcomed Tim Berlin as the district’s new director of business services. Berlin replaces the district’s former director of finance, Barb Hunt, who resigned from her post earlier this year. In addition to developing, overseeing and maintaining the budget, Berlin’s duties will also include overseeing transportation, food service and maintenance. Berlin, a certified public accountant, who earned his bachelor of business administration degree from the University of Michigan, most worked for Millington Community Schools as chief financial officer from 2008 until the present and assumed and has served as superintendent since April 2011, as well. Prior to Millington, Berlin served as the CFO for Cass City Public Schools, controller for the Flint Journal, accounting manager for Bay Medical Center, and a public accountant at Robson & McCallum. Berlin’s other business and professional certifications and affiliations include CFO certification, Michigan School Business Officials; American Institute of Certified Public Accountants; and, Michigan Association of Certified Public Accountants. He has served as trustee of the Tuscola County Community Foundation and the director of finance committee for the Millington United Methodist Church. In addition, Berlin is a past member of the Millington Community School Board, on which he served for 13 years; a past member of the Millington Athletic Association; a long-time softball and baseball coach for the Millington youth program, and assistant coach for Millington Youth Football. Berlin, and his wife, Sherry, have been married for 30 years. The couple have three grown children — Jacki Northup, a graduate of Michigan State and a registered nurse at Spectrum Hospital; Jenni Berlin, a graduate of Grand Valley and a registered nurse at St. Mary’s in Grand Rapids; and a son, Matthew, a junior at Central Michigan University, who is planning a career in education. �Page 4 — Thursday, July 26, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Does government play a role in a great business? “If you’ve got a business, you didn’t build that. Somebody else made that happen.” President Barack Obama Old meets new at the fair Did you see the old threshing machine at the Barry County Fair last week, located near the high-tech communications tower in the antique tractor area? Here, Phil Wenger (far left) and Jon Raymond of Middleville tend to the threshing process as barley stems are loaded on the far end of an antique Rube Goldberg-looking threshing machine. The grain is separated from the plant, and the stems are blown into a modern John Deere baler that compresses the straw into bales. We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Do you know? Fair landing Do you know anything about this photo, which appears to have been taken at the old fairgrounds in Hastings? Did this landing take place during the Barry County Fair, or was it a special event? What was it? When? What can you tell us about this photo? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event to reunite the photos with their original clippings or identify photos that may never have been used. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Have you Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@j-adgraphics.com; or call 269-945- 9554. Last week’s photo of a boy showing a Hereford steer drew no responses. met? Joanne Barnard has been executive director of the Barry County Conservation District for 10 years. Her father was in the Navy, and Barnard grew up in Hawaii. She came to Barry County when her father retired and wanted to buy a campground on the Thornapple River. She loved the area so much she stayed — so much she left her English and literature teaching position at Olivet College. “The only connection between the two jobs is grant writing,” said Barnard. “I did a lot of grant writing at Olivet, and I brought that skill into this job.” Barnard is instrumental in the upcoming Thornapple River Expedition, the annual tree sale and Thornapple River Cleanup in September, Thornapple River Management Plan, the dam removal in Nashville, Pheasants Forever Restoration Project, watershed restoration, and many other educational outreach and conservation projects. Favorite song: I listen to anything from the ’60s to the present. Generally soft rock and things like that. I really like the songs I grew up with and can always go back to them. Joanne Barnard Favorite book: The things that recur to me most are Shakespeare plays. I studied them quite a bit in grad school. There is a quote [in Shakespeare] for everything that happens to you. My favorite is Measure for Measure. Favorite movie: I am laughing because of what comes to mind. But, I want to be honest, the Rob Reiner rock-and-roll spoof film “This is Spinal Tap.” Superpower you would most like to have: Organizing. If you were president: I would try to put back in balance human needs and long-term needs, which includes things like the environment and resources. Not only natural resources, renewable resources, but also the resources we use to fuel our daily lives. I think we have gotten somehow out of balance. We tend to think about what we need today and maybe the next generation, but not in the long-term. Best advice ever received: One word. Write. That was from my 11th grade English teacher. Her name was Floy Kaku. If you could give somebody the gift of one thing, you would give: Confidence. A lot of people have ideas and capabilities, but a lot of times don’t have the confidence to move forward and carry out their ideas. On the campaign trail last week, President Barack Obama crossed over the line when he suggested to his audience that great businesses are built as much from the outside as they are from the sweat, risk and optimism of America’s business owners. Or maybe the president was showing his lack of understanding of how we’ve become the greatest nation in the world — through leaders of entrepreneurial businesses of all kinds, sizes and abilities. “Successful businesses happened not only because of individual achievement, but because people utilized parts of the public system, such as teachers, the Internet and roads and bridges,” were Obama’s full words. “If you’ve got a business, you didn’t build that, somebody else made that happen.” I was thinking about what the president said as I was sitting at the annual 4-H livestock sale at the Barry County Fair Friday. For nearly eight hours, I sat in amazement as I watched these young 4-Hers show their prize animals and work the crowd for the best price possible for their market animals. These young entrepreneurs were learning the business of hard work, sales and marketing. It didn’t take long to figure out which of the kids had done their homework since they were awarded the higher bids. They also understood the importance a big smile could have on the audience. According to the president’s analogy, the reward these young people garnered Friday had more to do with the fair, the facilities and the organization than it did with their own care and hard work. In reality, it’s all about the kids and their individual dedication that determined their level of success. Growing up in a family business, I learned early on that the newspaper trade was a family commitment — a commitment not for the faint of heart because it would take long hours and hard work to make it successful. I’m sure my parents realized that more than 67 years ago when they were given the opportunity to buy the Reminder from the former owner, Winn Green. With the purchase of the newspaper came a filing cabinet, a small table and some back issues of the paper, along with a land contract that would go on for several years. They knew it was up to them to make a go of it — it wasn’t going to be easy, and it wasn’t. My parents knew their success would be determined by the support they received from local businesses and the readers, but, without their determination to make it happen, we wouldn’t be here covering the community each week. Plus, as any businessperson knows, it also takes a dedicated staff to grow and prosper. I wonder what Emil Tyden would think about the president’s comments? When Tyden came to Hastings in the late 1800s, all he had was an idea for a new product. It took him years to build his Tyden Seal business and start Viking Corporation and Hastings Manufacturing Company, offer- What do you ing jobs for hundreds of local people. Think about what Earl McMullin was able to accomplish when he left a full-time job at a local manufacturing company to start a manufacturing business of his own with only one product. Yet, due to his determination and hard work, Hastings Fiberglass grew, and today it has a catalog of products, a modern plant and lots of jobs for local citizens as the third generation of the McMullin family continues its operation. From the same company that McMullin left to go out on his own, Doug DeCamp and Bill Pierce began a manufacturing company that grew into today’s Flexfab Horizons International, which has become one of the county’s largest employers. All of these men started their businesses with a dream and a commitment to produce a product and to grow their enterprises. They weren’t moved by influences from government at any level. In fact, in many cases they would tell you about the roadblocks they encountered along the way due to government intervention. So, last week when the president made light of how a business gets started, it showed his inability to understand how the system works. From the start of his administration, President Obama should have made the economy No. 1 on his list by calling on the best and brightest individuals to help him put together a strong and successful economic plan. Instead, we’ve had 3 1/2 years of sluggish economic growth and a country that’s developed a divisive attitude toward government and successful Americans. The president has shown further weakness as an administrator who needs to bring people together for the common good of all Americans. Not only has the president been unable to persuade company leaders to expand and grow, he’s condemned them for their success rather than bringing them to the table to work on a plan to solve this country’s economic malaise. In a recent interview for the book, The Amateur, author Edward Klein asked former President Bill Clinton how he would characterize Obama’s administrative abilities as president. According to Klein, Clinton bit his lower lip, scanned the faces in the room and said, “he’s an amateur.” Conrad Hilton once said about philanthropy, “Charity is a supreme virtue and the great channel through which the mercy of God is passed on to mankind. It is the virtue that unites men and inspires their noblest efforts.” We can end this economic malaise by embracing American exceptionalism and the entrepreneurs and innovative risk-takers who make it happen. Despite worldwide competition and economic pressure, America is still the world’s leader in the commodity that no other nation can match: creativity. It’s time we celebrate the people who embrace innovation and who, with their hard work and calculated risk, can help bring everyone together on a path to a better future for all of us. Fred Jacobs Vice President, J-Ad Graphics, Inc. think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website, www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week. Feel free to leave an opinion or comment. Last week’s question: Scientists have been warning that global warming will produce adverse effects on our lives, as this summer’s drought may prove. Do you believe global warming holds real and dangerous consequences? 56% 44% For this week: Are you upset that U.S. Olympic uniforms were made in China — as they were for the 2008 team and even though U.S. taxpayers did not fund the expense? q q Yes No The Hastings Yes No Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Bonnie Mattson • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, July 26, 2012 — Page 5 Board has helped township IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV Houtman brings experience to county board To the editor: As the election cycle approaches, I wish to recommend for re-election to the county commission, Bob Houtman. Due to redistricting, Bob will be running in new District 3, consisting of Barry, Hope and precinct 1 of Rutland townships. I first met Bob when we were both serving on the animal shelter advisory committee. He is the commissioner member of the advisory committee, and proved to be a great resource. I found him to always be more than willing to help us find answers and solutions to problems we were working on. He has a very thorough and deep understanding of all things to do with county government, and always emphasized honesty, fairness and especially the importance of conservation of taxpayers’ funds. I was favorably impressed with Bob’s integrity; he has the traits of a dedicated public servant. He has a solid record of 11 years combined service on Barry and Kalamazoo county commissions. With this experience, it is imperative that Bob Houtman be retained on the Barry County Commission. Bob has a history of patriotism. He served 20 years in the Michigan Army National Guard, rising to the rank of command sergeant major. Anyone can steer a ship through calm waters, but in stormy seas, an experienced seaman is needed at the wheel to guide the ship to safety. Bob is that experienced person to help Barry County steer through these stormy economic times. I highly recommend you cast your vote for Bob Houtman. William F. Norris, Dowling Residents favor Carr’s re-election To the editor: Shortly you will be voting in the Aug. 7 primary election. We are encouraging you to vote to re-elect Jim Carr as Rutland Township supervisor. Jim has effectively served our township well for the past nine years and deserves our support again. Jim has worked to improve our fire safety, infrastructure, wireless phone service, emergency medical services and to reduce the cost of Rutland Township services during difficult economic times. Jim Carr has helped to make Brownfield redevelopment funds available, improved the M-37 corridor infrastructure and reduced home insurance costs. Jim is a veteran of the United States Air Force, a Master Citizen Certified Planner and has effectively worked with intergovernmental units. Jim Carr’s experience, proven leadership, future planning and openness in conducting township business are good reasons to re-elect him and keep Rutland Township strong and moving forward. As long-time residents, we recommend that we keep Jim Carr. John Fehsenfeld, Neil Braendle, Hastings To the editor: We have resided in Barry County for more than 30 years and have raised our family here. We are also familiar with the current criminal justice system in Barry County. Aug. 7 is an important day for the families of Barry County. It is our primary election day, and we have the opportunity to put our justice system back on track. We can elect a prosecutor who is an excellent spokesperson for the victims of crime and their families. We can elect a prosecutor who can win the major criminal cases that go to trial in our courts. We can elect a prosecutor who will act professionally at all times, whether working with our local government officials or John Q. Citizen. We can elect a prosecutor who will be a person we can all be proud of. Vote Tuesday, Aug. 7 for Julie NakfoorPratt for prosecutor. It is time for a positive change here in Barry County. Thomas and Christi Dutcher, Orangeville Township To the editor: Rutland Township has never been in better shape because of Jim Carr’s leadership and great supporting cast. These folks are doing a wonderful job of keeping our township on the right track. I’m voting for Jim Carr as township supervisor Tuesday, Aug. 7. You should, too. Cathy Cole, Rutland Township To the editor: I am writing to enthusiastically support the candidacy of Commissioner Robert Houtman for the 3rd District of Barry County. For the past four years, he has been a tireless servant of the citizens of Barry County. As a true conservative Republican, Mr. Houtman has eliminated per diems resulting in more work performed in less time and cost, along with more transparency in county government. He has voted to use earnings from the delinquent tax fund to pay down Barry County debt. When the Republicans in Lansing instituted the new pension tax, he “bucked” his party and was (and still is) a staunch opponent of this tax, advocating for seniors to keep their money. To this day, he is still fighting to repeal this law for Barry County pensioners. Please vote Aug. 7 for Commissioner Robert Houtman for the Barry County Commission 3rd District. Don McLennan, Delton Private sector experience earns Houtman support To the editor: In Barry County the outcome of the August 7 primary election will determine almost all of our local officials. This includes seven county commissioners - down from eight due to census reapportionment. This term I’m recommending Robert Houtman continue to serve us on the county board as commissioner for the newly reapportioned District 3 — Barry and Hope townships and Precinct 1 of Rutland Township. As a business owner, I want people to represent me in office who have worked in the private sector and who understand job creation. I also want someone who has prepared themselves for public service, who is fiscally responsible with our tax money and who can make fair, timely and considered decisions on a variety of issues that affect us every day. Here are just a few reasons I’m backing Commissioner Houtman: Bachelor’s and master’s degrees, Western Michigan University; 11 years as a county commissioner in Barry and Kalamazoo counties;served as chairman of both boards and served 20 years in the Michigan Army National Guard retiring as a command sergeant major; 25 years with Eaton Corporation, truck group; 2.5 years as ninth circuit court administrator in Kalamazoo; seven years, court services administrator, Orange County clerk of the courts, Orlando, Fla.; implemented committee of the whole structure and proposed elimination of per diems resulting in more work performed in less time for less taxpayer dol- lars — about a 24 percent reduction in cost; proposed the solution for stable funding for MSUE services (including 4-H), the airport and to begin retiring debt; advocated for seniors and against the new pension tax; moved to establish separate ordinances for farmland and open space preservation; brought the Animal Control shelter issue to an amicable and practical solution Thanks for voting Aug. 7. Mike Eyde Hickory Corners Candidate will keep moving township forward To the editor: I hope Rutland Township residents recognize the importance of retaining Jim Carr as township supervisor. He has kept our township successful and is the most experienced and knowledgeable candidate to keep our township moving forward. I ask you to vote for Jim Carr in the primary election Tuesday, Aug. 7. Barb Wood, Rutland Township To the editor: Many times, people think the primary election is not that important. In the race for the Prairieville Township clerk, two candidates are running for the Republican nomination in August. This election will decide the future clerk since there will be no opponent in November. Ted DeVries is one of these two candidates. Ted is currently the deputy clerk and is prepared to take on the responsibilities of the clerk. Ted has a strong work ethic, is an effec- tive communicator and will represent all people. He will look at each issue with an open mind and vote only after understanding all of the facts. He is a certified election official and a notary public. Ted is a sincere person who will look out for all of the citizens of Prairieville Township. Join me and vote for Ted DeVries Aug. 7. Jim Winkel Prairieville Township Re-election reasons Former supervisor endorses Carr, Snow are countless To the editor: There are countless reasons to keep Jim Carr as Rutland Township Supervisor. Jim is honest, well qualified, a good listener and is a straightforward leader. He is a problem solver and just might be the best supervisor in Barry County. We need him in these uncertain times. Harry Bowman, Rutland Township Retired officer supports Pratt To the editor: I am a retired police officer who served 40 years in law enforcement in Hastings and Barry County. I know Julie Nakfoor Pratt would do a good job as the prosecutor for Barry County. Please vote for her. George Winick, Hastings Ted DeVries Aug. 7 is important date to change county image is our choice Financial rigor makes Houtman best commission pick Primary election important in Prairieville To the editor: For the past several years, the administration of Prairieville Township has been dramatically enhanced. A badly outdated computer system has been replaced. Fiscal accounting procedures produce exemplary audits. A much needed reassessment of all properties has now been completed fairly and competently. The current Board conducts meetings that are transparent and encourage input and participation by our residents. Ted DeVries has been a contributor to this turnaround. As assistant clerk, he has gained on-the-job experience learning the many complex duties and responsibilities carried out in the clerk’s office. Ted also eagerly embraced all training opportunities that became available to him through professional township organizations. So, this is a man who – on the day he takes office – is up to date with all current Township business and possesses the skills and competencies to make the transition in the clerk’s office a seamless one. In addition, we have found Ted DeVries to be approachable. This is a person who listens to all points of view before formulating a response. Finally, he has that old fashioned work ethic. Ted already has a reputation for working beyond regular office hours and for attending meetings where his presence is not required. Some folks call that job dedication. Trained. Competent. Approachable, Dedicated. Please join us on August 7 and voted for Ted. DeVries. Mary Meagher & John Hoek, Delton (Editor’s note: This letter appeared in the July 19 issue of the Banner but, because of reproduction errors with two key words, the letter’s intent could of been misconstrued. So it is being reprinted in corrected form. We regret the error.) Gibson is active commissioner To the editor: To me, actions speak louder than party labels. I’m a Democrat, but, I’m voting Republican in the Aug. 7 primary. As a resident of Barry County for the past 15 years, I’m well aware of the political climate that exists. I’m voting to re-elect Howard Gibson as county commissioner for District 1. Hoot has represented not only District 1, but all of Barry County, as well. I find it refreshing to have a county commissioner who is active, visible, and reachable. He makes a real effort to serve in the best interest of all our citizens. Hoot’s record as county commissioner speaks for itself. When Lighthouse on the Lake needed to relocate, Hoot took the lead in finding a new and much-improved facility. The residents of Thornapple Manor enjoy an excellent car show thanks to Hoot’s efforts. And if you enjoy garage sales, you can’t beat the one at Charlton Park. Don Groendyk, Hastings To the editor: Two candidates are running for office that I would like to ask the voters to support. The first one is Jim Carr, current supervisor of Rutland Township. I worked closely with Jim when I was supervisor in Baltimore Township and found Jim to be hard working and intelligent and always had the concerns of the residents in his mind when making decisions. Rutland Township residents should vote to keep Jim Carr. The second candidate is Joyce Snow, who is a candidate for county commissioner in District 8. Joyce is a native Barry County resident. She was born and raised on a farm and later owned a hog farm after her marriage. Joyce also operated a beauty salon in her home. Joyce would be a great accent to the Barry County commissioners board. I would ask all voters to support Joyce Snow for District 8 county commissioner. George Cullers, Hastings Office is already high-tech To the editor: I worked in the Barry County Register of Deeds Office for 35 plus years and just retired over a year ago. It was a pleasure serving the people of Barry County. I know what it takes to run the office and how modern, high-tech that office is and how important this office is to Barry County. The office just went through a complete update state-of-the-art computer system in the past year. I know how short-staffed that office is and how stressful that office can be. I know how tight the budget is to run that office. That is why it upsets me to hear how one of the candidates who is running promised things that the office already has and has had for years, and promising things that cannot be fulfilled. It all sounds good, but the truth is, the register of deeds has the state-of-the-art computer system with Internet access and is run as efficiently as it can be under the stress of budget cuts and staff cuts. I have worked right alongside Barb Hurless for over 11 years and found her to be a great co-worker and friend. She is dedicated to her job, hard-working, has the knowledge of the office, and is always helpful to her co-workers and the customers. I say take caution with politicians who are running for an office they have never worked in. They are clueless to the truth. Do not try to fix something that is already working fine. I support Barb Hurless for Barry County Register of Deeds and hope you will do the same Tuesday, Aug. 7. Judy Martin, Middleville Democrat supports Gibson To the editor: I am going to vote Republican in the primary Aug. 7. And I hope other voters in District 1 join me in voting for Howard “Hoot” Gibson. Hoot’s leadership and community service is above any I have seen in the past. I was a trustee on the Hastings Township board for 20 years and I am a Democrat. Neil E. Wilder, Hastings More letters on page 13 Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. �Page 6 — Thursday, July 26, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Call 269-945-9554 anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads Worship Together… 77569533 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 . ORANGEVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH 6921 Marsh Rd., 2 miles south of Gun Lake, Plainwell. Phone 269664-4377. OrangevilleBaptist.org. Pastors Dan Bowman and Adam Parmenter. Sundays - 9:45-10:45 a.m. Sunday school classes for age 2 through adults; 11 a.m. Summer messages: “God’s Ten Words For a Vital Spiritual Life” (The Ten Commandments); 5:30 p.m. Teen Word of Life Club; 6 p.m. “Guard the Gospel” A study of 2 Timothy. Wednesdays - 7 p.m. prayer; 8:30 p.m. Men’s Bible Study. MondayFriday - July 9-13 - 9:30 a.m.-noon, Vacation Bible School, age 5-7th grade with Uncle Al Torres - RBM Minstries. Sunday, July 15 - Guest speaker, Dr. Eldon Stevens. Sunday, August 19 - Summer concert. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Rev. Ryan Wieland. Sundays - 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Service; Sunday School and Nursery available during both services (Summer Schedule - Adult Sunday School: 9 a.m., Worship & Children’s Programs 10 a.m.) Youth Group, Covenant Prayer, Choir, Chimes, Praise Band, Quilting Group, Community Breakfasts and more! Call the church office at (269) 721-8077 (M/W/F 9 a.m.-12 p.m.), e-mail office@mei.net or visit www.countrychapelumc.org <http://www.countrychapelumc.org/> for more information SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 9:15 Contemporary Worship, 10:30 a.m. Refreshments, 11 a.m. Traditional Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Youth Pastor, Eric Gillespie. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. for children and youth, and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Junior & Senior High Youth Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Mid-Week Pioneers and adult classes return in September. Thursday: Senior Adult Bible Study at 10 a.m. and lunch at Wendy’s, 11:30 a.m. Vacation Bible School: Wed. & Thurs., July 25 & 26, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot.com. Thursday - 6:30 p.m. SoftballPresbyterian Field. Friday - 9 a.m. Golfer’s Group Meets; 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday - 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday - 4 p.m. Pickleball; 6:30 p.m. SoftballPresbyterian Field; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Tuesday - 6:30 p.m. Softball - Barry County Christian Field. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings Fiberglass Products 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 Jeffrey L. Noteboom NASHVILLE, MI Mr. Jeffrey L. Noteboom, age 58, of Nashville passed away unexpectedly Thursday, July 12, 1012, at his home. Jeffrey was born in Battle Creek, MI, on May 24, 1954. He was raised in the Delton area and attended Delton schools. In 1975, he married Debbie Hicks; together they had three children who survive. The couple later divorced. Debbie passed away in 2004. Jeffrey worked in the building trades owning and operating Noteboom Concrete & Masonry for over 20 years before retiring in 2006. Jeffrey enjoyed being outside hunting, fishing and camping with his family at Mud Lake Campground and playing with his dog, Harley. Spending time with his beloved grandchildren was always something Jeffrey looked forward to. He also loved music and especially enjoyed playing the banjo and his harmonica. Jeffrey is survived by his beloved children, sons Jacob Noteboom and Larry Noteboom, and daughter Rebecca (Justin) Titus; his parents, Larry (Geraldine) Noteboom and Joyce (Clare) White; his grandmother, Alma Gripe; his aunt, Sharon Gripe; his beloved grandchildren, Kodee Wolfe, Hailee Titus, Cyleigh Noteboom, Hannah Titus, and Danyella Noteboom-Holden. He is survived further by his niece and two nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his brother David Noteboom and his sister Sherry (Don) Roscoe. The family received visitors on Saturday, July 21, from 4-6 PM at Daniels Funeral Home in Nashville, MI. In lieu of flowers the family has requested memorial contributions be made to either Hickory Corners Bible Church, Grace Community Church in Nashville, or Urbandale Baptist Church. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Daniels Funeral Home. Please visit our website at www.danielsfuneralhome.net for further details. Gary Joseph Bekker GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Sunday, July 29 - Worship Service 10 a.m. July 29 - Men’s Alcoholics Anonymous 7 p.m. July 30 Spiritual Alcoholics Anonymous 7:30 p.m. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 9452645, fax 269-945-2698. Pastor Amy Luckey. http://www.discover-grace.org COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. Lauer Family Funeral Homes Area Obituaries 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 HASTINGS, MI- Isa Nathan Shultz, age 62, of Hastings, passed away July 24, 2012 at Grand Rapids Metro Hospital. He was born December 26, 1949 in Hastings, the son of Bernard and Eva Shultz. Isa attended Hastings High School. He married Mary Hess on June 21, 1991. Isa worked for Signs Auto, Jerry’s Tires and did some self-employed tire work. He worked as a sexton for Hope Township for 15 years and was last employed at Hastings Area Schools where he retired from. Isa enjoyed watching the Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy. He also enjoyed hunting, and spending time with family and friends. Isa loved campfires and doing crossword puzzle books. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Martha Shultz and brother, David Shultz. Isa is survived by his wife, Mary Shultz; daughter, Glenda Shultz; daughter, Danielle Leader; grandchildren, Lewis and Destiny; brother, Wendell Shultz of California, brothers and sisters-in-law, Jim (Helen) Hess, Garry Hess and Bill Hess and Deb Rice as well as many nieces and nephews. Memorial contributions may be made to the family to help cover final expenses, checks may be made payable to Girrbach Funeral Home. The visitation and funeral service will be held Friday, July 27, 2012 at Girrbach Funeral Home, 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. The funeral service will immediately follow visitation at 1 p.m. Pastor Timm Oyer will be officiating the service. A luncheon will follow the funeral service at the Church of the Nazarene, 1716 N. Broadway St., Hastings, MI 49058. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, please visit our website at www.girrbach funeralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message to the family. Richard A. “Dick” Conrad HASTINGS, MI - Gary Joseph Bekker, age 55, of Hastings passed, away Friday, July 20, 2012. He was born April 1, 1957 in Iowa City, Iowa the son of Orville and Frances (Hickman) Bekker. Gary attended Northview High School in Grand Rapids. He honorably served in the United States Navy. Gary married Brenda Slaughter on February 3, 1979. He worked in construction and masonry, retiring in 2010. Gary loved spending time with his family and friends. He also enjoyed fishing, boating, waterskiing and camping. He was preceded in death by his parents: Orville and Frances (Hickman) Bekker; son, Joseph Lee Bekker; father-in-law, Ralph Slaughter and brother-in-law, Darrell Slaughter. Gary is survived by his wife, Brenda Lee Bekker; son, Michael Jason (Kristine) Bekker; brother, Vern (Carol) Bekker; sister, Edith (Doug) Brownell; mother-in-law, Levada Sue Slaughter; sister-in-law, Christine (Roger) Dehann; brother-in-law, Dennis Slaughter; sister-in-law, Cheryl Slaughter and many nieces and nephews. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of ones choice. A graveside service was held Monday, July 23, 2012 at Irving Township Cemetery. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guestbook or to leave a memory or message to the family. Patsy Chamberlain Isa Nathan Shultz WOODLAND, MI - Richard A. “Dick” Conrad, age 73, of Woodland passed away July 21, 2012 at Bronson Hospital in Battle Creek. He was born October 1, 1938 the son of Virgil and Winifred (Cappon) Conrad. Dick attended Woodland High School. He lived his whole life on the family farm in Woodland. Dick worked for the family business, the Conrad Standard Service station in Woodland for many years. He also worked on the family farm. Dick enjoyed tinkering with TVs and radios, reading and loved cats. Dick was preceded in death by his parents, Virgil and Winifred Conrad. He is survived by his aunts and uncles, Wanda (Russel) Golden, Wilma Spaith, Betty Cappon, Dorothy Cappon, Dutch (Vonda) Cappon, Jasper (Sharon) Travis and many cousins. Visitation and funeral services were held Wednesday, July 25, 2012 at the Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. Burial took place at Woodland Memorial Park Cemetery. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, please visit our website at www.girrbach funeralhome.net to sign to online guestbook or to leave a memory or message to the family. Pat attended high school in Battle Creek. She graduated in 1951 from nursing training with an RN degree in South Bend, IN. Pat’s career as a registered nurse in Virginia, Michigan and Kentucky gave her great joy. She was an obstetrical nurse for 25 years, psychiatric nurse at the VA in Battle Creek and served at Pennock Hospital as a supervisor as well as in medical surgery. Pat married Robert Chamberlain Sr. in Charlotte on October 13, 1951. She enjoyed caring for her children, grandchildren and her pets (Polly and Sam). Pat enjoyed gardening and she loved to dance. Her greatest joy was being with her family. Pat was preceded in death by her father, Max Hill and son, Albert Chamberlain. She is survived by her husband, Robert Chamberlain, Sr. of Hastings; mother, Pauline Puttbrese of Hastings; sons, Bruce (Marilyn) Chamberlain of Grand Rapids, Robert Chamberlain, Jr. of Hastings; daughter, Lynne (Tom) Krul of Hastings; grandchildren, Melissa Shy, Justin Krul, Jason Chamberlain, Michelle Chamberlain, Rosie Chamberlain and Phillip Chamberlain; greatgrandchildren, Brooklynne Shy, Ty and William Chamberlain; siblings, Marvin (Agnes) Hill and Vonnie (Jack) Ellis. Cards may be sent to her husband Robert at 1551 Franklin SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506. Even as Pat passed away her strength and beautiful smile left her family filled with peace and love, which she always provided for them. Visitation will be held Sunday, July 29, 2012 at Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings from 4 until 6 p.m. A funeral service will be held Monday, July 30, 2012, also at Girrbach Funeral Home, at 2:30 p.m. Pat will be cremated and laid to rest at Irving Township Cemetery, at a private family burial, to be held at a later date. Arrangements are by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message for the family. Keep your friends and relatives INFORMED! Send them The BANNER To subscribe, call us at... 269-945-9554 Ray L. Girrbach Owner/Director 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 • 269-945-3252 Serving Hastings, Barry County and Surrounding Communities for 45 years •Traditional and Cremation Services •Pre-Planning Services •Large Parking Lot - Handicap Accessible •Serving All Faiths •Pre-arrangement Transfers Accepted Family Owned and Operated www.girrbachfuneralhome.net �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, July 26, 2012 — Page 7 Candidate debates begin tonight As the Aug. 7 primary election nears, JAd Graphics Inc. will sponsor two candidate debates in races of county-wide, high-profile interest. Thursday, July 26, the race for county prosecutor will be highlighted by a debate between current Barry County Prosecutor Tom Evans and his opponent, former prosecutor Julie Nakfoor-Pratt. The debate will be at the Commission on Aging building at 320 W. Woodlawn Ave. in Hastings and will begin at 7:30 p.m. It will be moderated by Hastings attorney, Bob Byington. Tuesday, July 31, a debate between current Chief Deputy Register of Deeds Barbara Hurless and challengers Jake Jelsema and Linda Watson also will be at the Commission on Aging building, beginning at 7 p.m. Possible future candidate forums may yet be scheduled. Stay informed with your copies of the Banner and the Reminder. Social News Marriage Licenses Franciscos celebrate silver wedding anniversary Ken and Mary (Funk) Francisco of Middleville celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary on June 20, 2012. The Franciscos have three sons, Jacob (20 years), Caden (18 years) and Clay (15 years). The couple celebrated by going out to dinner. James Wesley Coenen, Hastings and Angela Louise Brown, Hastings. Matthew Jacob Malik, Hastings and Antoinette Nelson, Hastings. Jason Richard Gonzalez, Hastings and Dana Rae Krasutsky, Hastings. Nathaniel Andrew Runals, Middleville and Rosalie Faye Rincones, Grand Rapids. John Francis Machinchick, Hastings and Traci Michelle Newhouse, Hastings. Rory William Miller, Hastings and Tamara Lyn Thornton, Hastings. Nathan David Anda, Wayland and Jessica Charlene Sidebottom, Denver, CO. Joshua James Kendall, Hastings and Kourtney Jean Meredith, Hastings. Thomas Clark Vandyk, Delton and Danielle Marie Roberts, Hastings. Newborn Babies Gun Lake Casino refinances debt The Gun Lake Tribe announced Thursday that it refinanced $165 million in outstanding debt incurred to develop and construct the Gun Lake Casino. The refinancing of the original loan was completed three years in advance of the scheduled July 20, 2015, maturity date. “We are very pleased to have secured favorable terms to refinance our existing debt. This shows a lot of confidence in our operations and optimism for a bright future, not only for our citizens, but the local economy,” said D.K. Sprague, tribal chairman. “As a result of the financial markets improving and the Gun Lake Casino exceeding expectations, the tribe was able to significantly reduce its cost of borrowing.” KeyBank’s Native American Financial Services division led the refinancing process. “The authority is grateful to KeyBank for being an outstanding financial partner,” said John Shagonaby, CEO of the Gun Lake Tribal TY BAPTIST CH I N U OF HASTINGS UR M M C 502 EAST GRAND STREET O NEIGHBORHOOD BLOCK PARTY SATURDAY, JULY 28TH • 10 AM - 1:30 PM Gaming Authority. “This relationship has allowed the tribe to lower its interest costs and have the flexibility to consider expanding the Gun Lake Casino. At this time, we do not have definitive plans to expand, but with this refinancing, it is now possible.” The casino, which opened in February 2011, is on M-179 near US-131. For more information about the tribe, visit www.mbpi.org. For more information about the casino, visit www.gunlakecasino.com 269-967-8241 Mechanical Design Engineer and Engineering Tech. BCN Technical Services “Bliss” has immediate openings in there engineering group. Must have CAD experience and good Microsoft Office knowledge. Bachelors degree is preferred. Please send resume and salary requirements to 07605546 hr@bcntechserv.com or fax to (269) 948-3351 Public Land Auction TWO BROTHERS AND A TENT For All Your Tent Rental Needs Tables and chairs available. Call: Dan McKinney 269-838-7057 or Tom McKinney 269-838-3842 The following County Treasurers will be offering tax-reverted real estate at public Auction on August 1st, 2012: Barry & Ionia. The Auction will be held at The Barry County Commission on Aging, 320 West Woodlawn, Hastings, MI 49058. Registration will begin at 11:00am, Auction will begin at 12:00pm. Online bidding will be available via www.tax-sale.info. For more information or for a list of the properties being sold, visit our website at www.tax-sale.info or call 1-800-259-7470. Sale listings are also available at your local County Treasurers Office. 77568876 FRANK 77566915 EVERYON E WELCOM E H C NE EVERYOM E O C WEL 3 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Caidynn Lee, born at Pennock Hospital on July 9, 2012 at 8:49 a.m. to Tasha Woodmansee and Ronald Aspinall of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 0 ozs. and 19 inches long. ***** Isacc Robert James, born at Pennock Hospital on July 10, 2012 at 7:07 p.m. to Nathan Keiser and Samantha Miller of Hastings. Weighing 8 lbs. 3 ozs. and 21 inches long. Proud stepdad is Alex J. Mutch. ***** Bentley Alexander, born at Pennock Hospital on July 10, 2012 at 6:43 a.m. to Chelsea Castelein of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 15 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Chessa Grace, born at Pennock Hospital on July 12, 2012 at 8:54 p.m. to Jason and Katrina Joppie of Nashville. Weighing 7 lbs. 2 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Allison Marie, born at Pennock Hospital on July 13, 2012 at 1:31 a.m. to Josh and Rebecca Bosworth of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 1 oz. and 19.5 inches long. The Sts. Cyril and Methodius Church Concert Choir will present “A Living Prayer,” a benefit concert for Habitat for Humanity and for the church’s capital campaign Friday, July 22, at 7:30 p.m. at the church. The choir is made up of the church’s praise team and high school students from Hopkins, Thornapple Kellogg and Wayland. Singers from Grand Valley State University and Aquinas College will also be part of the special evening. Freewill offerings will be accepted. Pictured at a recent rehearsal are (front row, from left) Dorothy Flaska, Pat Wardsen, Martha LaVoie, Courtney Hupp, Amy Cutlip, Kaylynn Frigmanski, Crystal Scholma, Taylor Paiz, Kayle Paiz, Sarah Hubble, Lizzy Cutlip, (second row) Armand Mucci, Sarah Wolters, Mindy Cutlip, Beth Hanapel, Chelsea Funk, Suzy Byville, Cara Crandel, Brittany Hupp, Maddison Hanapel, Doug Hart, Director Nate LaVoie, (back) Don Berry, Ketih Weber, Eric Vanderzande, Mike Cutlip, Zak Smit, Evan Crowe and Curt Henshaw. 77568328 Aiden Allen, born at Pennock Hospital on June 27, 2012 to Mark Ruthruff and Kayla Kippes of Delton. Weighing 8 lbs. 12 ozs. and 21 inches long. ***** Evalin Grace, born at Pennock Hospital on June 28, 2012 at 5:53 a.m. to Ashley Jachim and Andrew Gilbert of Middleville. Weighing 6 lbs. 10 ozs. and 18 inches long. ***** Carolynn Ann, born at Pennock Hospital on July 6, 2012 at 4:48 a.m. to Christian Main and Kevin Chapman of Lake Odessa. Weighing 7 lbs. 12.9 ozs. and 21 inches long. ***** Paisley Jean, born at Pennock Hospital on July 6, 2012 at 8:20 p.m. to Nicole and Peter Hough of Sunfield. Weighing 7 lbs. 6 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Blake Thomas, born at Pennock Hospital on July 8, 2012 at 7:11 a.m. to Katie Harvath and Ted Knuppenburg of Hastings. Weighing 6 lbs. 10 ozs. and 19 inches long. ***** Aubrie Naomi, born at Pennock Hospital on July 9, 2012 at 10:21 p.m. to Paul Hosmer and Jenna Williams of Nashville. Weighing 7 lbs. St. Cyril and Methodius concert to benefit two causes Zoo Trips: August 4th and 11th Sometimes things happen that seem so hard to bear We often question God why life is so unfair Someday we’ll know the reason why eight years ago today He took you to the heavens held your hand and led the way. Our inspiration Love ... Your Family 77569527 ® Detroit Tigers: August 18th The Mystery Trip: August 26th Mackinac Bridge Walk: September 2-3 Moon Walk, small games & prizes for the kids snow cones, popcorn - hot dog lunch served at noon!! New England Seaports: September 8-18 EVERYONE WELCOME –– EVERYTHING FREE Mississippi River Cruise: September 17-20 SUNDAY SCHOOL each week 10:00 AM 4 years - Adults AM Worship - 11:00 AM PM Worship - 6:00 PM Nursery Care for Infants - 3 yrs. For more information call: Colonial Williamsburg: October 15-21 Call or email for more information or a complete brochure! “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16 517.647.2050 or 855.219.0085 hartzlertours@gmail.com Complete tour information can be found at: www. hartzlertours.com Don’t delay, tours are filling fast, inquire today! 77569504 Church - 818-0029 Pastor Floyd Hughes 948-2673 Thursday Night Bible Study 7:00 PM Mackinac Island - Grand Hotel: September 19-20 77564841 77569655 Moms - Dads, bring your kids for a safe, fun time!!! �Page 8 — Thursday, July 26, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of by Elaine Garlock The Ionia Free Fair runs the rest of this week. Depot Day is coming Saturday, July 28, when the local Lions Club is to be honored. This is now Lakewood Lions Club which incorporates more than the Lake Odessa members. Woodland is chief among the additions. This service organization does much for each of the communities represented. Other features of the day will be the awarding of the Janie Rodriguez Award, music and dance. The Center Stage Dancers will open the program and the Thunder Floor Cloggers will present the grand finale. Food will be available for purchase. Ice cream sundaes always taste great on a hot day. There will also be a 50/50 raffle. Come and enjoy the day’s free entertainment while sitting in the cool shade of a huge tent. Coming events around the county include the continuing free travelogues in Ionia. This week’s offering is “From the Pyramids to down Under,” at 9:30 a.m. at the Ionia Theater. For the month of July, the Lake Odessa Farmers Market is relocated to the upholstery shop on M-50 at Jordan Lake Highway. The Blanchard House at Ionia is open Sunday afternoons for tours. Donations are accepted. The Tri-River Museum summer luncheon drew a nice crowd Tuesday of last week Freeport and Lake Odessa were represented. A Cedar Springs gentleman spoke on some of his experiences as a railway mail clerk. He brought along an invention made especially to nab the mailbags that hung outside the depots along the local rail lines where the train sailed past the small stations without stopping or even reducing speed. The mail bags had to be loaded equally top half and lower half. What if somebody was mailing a jar of honey that was being handled in such a bag? Election rhetoric is stepping up. For whom do we vote? SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN Like baseball, numbers tell stories by Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Just as Social Security is an American cornerstone, baseball is America’s pastime. Baseball is an annual rite of summer and a game that is known for its numbers. Joe DiMaggio’s 56-game hitting streak, Cal Ripken’s record 2,632 consecutive games played and Hank Aaron’s 755 career home runs all tell stories greater than the numbers themselves. Mention any one of these numbers to a baseball fan, and you’re sure to stir memories and stories. Social Security’s numbers tell stories, too. The first lump-sum Social Security payment of 17 cents was made to Ernest Ackerman in 1937. The first monthly Social Security check of $22.54 went to Ida May Fuller in January Call 269-945-9554 anytime for Hastings Banner ads of 1940. This year, about 55 million Americans will receive $760 billion in Social Security benefits. The average monthly benefit for a retired worker in 2012 is $1,229. An estimated 159 million workers are covered under Social Security — that’s 94 percent of the work force. Fifty percent of workers have no private pension coverage, and 31 percent have no savings set aside specifically for retirement. These and other numbers make it easy to appreciate the value of Social Security. Ninety percent of Americans age 65 and older receive Social Security benefits. Among the unmarried, 41 percent rely on Social Security benefits for 90 percent of their income. Baseball and Social Security — both have long and storied histories and associations with statistics. Learn more about Social Security by visiting www.socialsecurity.gov. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. NOTICE OF PUBLIC ACCURACY TEST Notice is hereby given that a Public Accuracy Test for the August 7, 2012 Election will be conducted by the Assyria Township voting equipment pursuant to MCL 168.798 at the address noted below on the following date: JULY 27, 2012 AT 6:00 P.M. AT ASSYRIA TOWNSHIP HALL 8094 TASKER ROAD, BELLEVUE, MI A complete list of candidates and full text for the proposals is available at www.barry county.org. Sample ballots are available at the Michigan Information Voter Center at www.michigan.gov/vote. 77569669 NOTICE FOR BIDS CARLTON TOWNSHIP The Carlton Township Board is accepting sealed bids for the position of Township Assessor. This is a 4 year contract beginning September 1, 2012 and ending August 31, 2016. The job description can be obtained from the Carlton Township offices at 85 Welcome Rd., Hastings, MI 49058. The bid should include a resume with cover letter and references. Bids are due by 5:00pm August 13, 2012, and can be submitted in person or by mail to Carlton Township Board, ATTN: Assessor Contract, 85 Welcome Rd., Hastings, MI 49058. Michele Erb, Clerk Carlton Township Hall 85 Welcome Rd. Hastings, MI 49058 269-945-5990 77569663 EDWARD JONES ‘Millennials’ in good position to invest for the future If you were born anywhere from 1982 to 2001, or within a few years of this range, you are considered a “Millennial.” As a member of this group, you share many things —cultural references, familiarity with technology, attitudes toward work and family — with others your age. And if you’re one of the “older” Millennials, you and your peers have something else in common — specifically, you have a good opportunity to launch investment strategies to help you save for the future. Why are you so well positioned to invest for the future? For one thing, it’s because you have so much of the future ahead of you. As an investor, time is your greatest ally, for a couple of reasons. First, the more years you have to invest, the greater the growth potential of your investments. And second, by investing for the long term, you can help reduce the impact of periods of short-term volatility on your portfolio. Furthermore, since you may be in the early stage of your career, you probably have yet to reach your maximum earnings and may be eligible to put in the full annual amount to a Roth IRA, one of the most effective retirement savings vehicles available. (Eligibility to contribute to a Roth IRA is phased out over a specific income range.) When you invest in a Roth IRA, your earnings have the opportunity to grow tax free, provided you don’t start taking withdrawals until you’re at least 59_ and you’ve had your account for at least five years. Even if you do contribute to a Roth IRA, you can still participate in your employersponsored retirement plan, such as a 401(k) if you work for a company, a 457(b) if you work for a state or local government, or a 403(b) if you work for a school or other tax-exempt organization. And you should indeed contribute to your employer’s plan, because it offers some key benefits: Your earnings accumulate on a tax-deferred basis, and you typically fund your plan with pre-tax dollars. So the more you put in, the lower your taxable income. (Taxes are due upon withdrawal, and withdrawals prior to age 59_ may be subject to a 10% IRS penalty.) The amount you can afford to put into your 401(k) or other employer-sponsored plan depends on your earnings and other circumstances — but you should at least strive to contribute enough to earn your employer’s match, if one is offered. Otherwise, you’ll be walking away from “free” money. All the money you contribute to your plan is yours, but if you leave your job before a specified vesting period — which often ranges from three to seven years — you may not be able to keep all your employer’s contributions. Check your plan’s rules to see how this applies to you. Of course, since you, as a Millennial, are in the early stage of your working years, you may well be on the lookout for new job opportunities. But if you are close to being fully vested in your 401(k), you might consider waiting a few extra months — or even a year — to take a new job, so that you can leave with the money your employer has contributed. As a Millennial, you’ve got time on your side as you invest for the future. So make sure you take advantage of all the opportunities that come your way. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 35.57 -.24 AT&T 34.63 -1.19 BP PLC 39.81 -1.88 CMS Energy Corp 24.12 -.30 Coca-Cola Co 76.66 -1.03 Eaton 41.00 +2.63 Family Dollar Stores 66.52 -1.87 Fifth Third Bancorp 13.69 -.23 Flowserve CP 109.95 -1.04 Ford Motor Co. 9.06 -.28 General Mills 37.91 -.94 General Motors 19.02 -.58 Intel Corp. 25.01 -.37 Kellogg Co. 46.53 -1.85 McDonald’s Corp 88.06 -3.83 Pfizer Inc. 23.36 -.26 Ralcorp 59.87 -1.00 Sears Holding 48.36 -5.45 Spartan Motors 4.93 -.40 Spartan Stores 16.98 -1.12 Stryker 50.75 -2.97 TCF Financial 9.98 -1.57 Walmart Stores 72.14 -.96 Gold $1580.98 -2.07 Silver $27.02 -.30 Dow Jones Average 12,617 -188 Volume on NYSE 760M +105M DEFICIT PLAN, continued from page 1 nator and grant authority to obtain the MDE approval to implement the program. Earlier in the meeting, the board heard an educational presentation about the proposed program from Hastings High School assistant principal and athletic director Mike Goggins and Community Education and Recreation Center employee Andrea Large Gleason. • Elected the following board officers for July through Dec. 31, 2012: President, Kevin Beck; vice president, Dan Patton; secretary, Donna Garrison; treasurer, Rob Longstreet. The terms of office is short due to the district’s adoption of the new bi-annual November election cycle, which starts with 2012 fall election. • Approved the following schedule of meetings for the 2012-13 school year, all meetings will begin at 7:30 p.m. the third Monday of the month, except for February 2013: Aug. 20, Hastings Middle School; Sept. 17, Northeastern Elementary; Oct. 15, Southeastern Elementary; Nov. 19, Star NOTICE OF HERBICIDE APPLICATION The Daltons inc., their main office at 936 Little Eagle Drive, Warsaw, IN 46580, has been contracted by the Barry County Road Commission to perform chemical brush control maintenance services along designated roadsides throughout the county. In doing so, they will be applying DuPont’s “Escort” (Metsulfuron) and Dow’s “Garlon 4” (Triclophyr) through September. Additional information may be requested by contacting Lex Dalton at 574.267.7511. 77569637 NOTICE The minutes of the meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners held July 24, 2012, are available in the County Clerk’s Office at 220 W. State St., Hastings, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or www.barrycounty.org. 77569548 City of Hastings REQUEST FOR BIDS 2013 53000 GVW Work Truck The City of Hastings is soliciting bids for the provision of one 2013 53000 GVW Work Truck for use by the Department of Public Services. Specifications are available from the Office of the City Clerk. The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in the bid proposals, and to award the bid as deemed to be in the City’s best interest, price and other factors considered. Bids must be clearly marked on the outside of the submittal package: “2013 53000 GVW Work Truck” Bids will be received at the office of the Hastings City Clerk/Treasurer, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 until 9:45 AM on Tuesday, August 7, 2012 at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. Tim Girrbach Director of Public Services 77569625 Elementary; Dec. 17, Hastings Middle School; Jan. 21, 2013, Central Elementary; Feb. 25, 2013, Hastings Middle School; March 18, 2013, Hastings Middle School; April 15, 2013, Hastings Middle School; May 20, 2013, Hastings Middle School; June 17, Hastings Middle School. • Approved the following dates for board work sessions during the 2012-13 school year, all works sessions will begin at 7:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month at Hastings Middle School: Sept. 11; Oct. 8; Nov. 13; Jan. 15, 2013; March 12, 2013; and, May 14, 2013. • Authorized Geerlings to make arrangements for the annual retainer agreement with Thrun Law Firm for legal counsel for the 2012-13 fiscal year. • Approved continued membership in the following organizations and associations: Michigan Association of School Boards, Michigan Association of School Administrators, state and region; Michigan School Business Officials Association, Michigan High School Athletic Association; Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association; Michigan Institute for Educational Management; O-K Athletic Conference; Barry Community Resource Network; Barry County Substance Abuse Prevention Council; Barry County WrapAround; Barry County Chamber of Commerce; and Family Support Center (formerly Barry County Child Abuse Prevention Council.) • Accepted the personnel report which contained notification of the following: Retirements — Larry Cook, maintenance supervisor; Karen Hayes, bus driver and middle school paraprofessional; recalls — Robin Stoepker-Girrbach, utility maintenance; appointments — Robert “Tim” Berlin, director of business services; Aaron Eding, high school Spanish teacher; Paul Golm, high school English teacher; Teresa Heide, middle school assistant principal; Marie Teitgen, middle school Spanish teacher. • Awarded contracts for the following food service products: Dairy products, Cedar Crest Dairy, Hudsonville; bakery products, Aunt Millie’s of Grand Rapids. • Approved a motion to participate in the National School Lunch Program and related programs and provide a breakfast program during the 2012-13 school year. The board also set the following cost schedule for the upcoming school year: Full-price breakfast, $1.35; reduced price breakfast, 30 cents; full price, type-A student lunch, $2.45; reduced price type-A student lunch, 40 cents; and adult lunch, $3. • Approved the athletic admission price schedule for the 2012-13 school year: All high school athletic activities will be $5 for 77569687 HHHHHHH adults and students; all middle school athletic activities $3 for adults and $2 students. Passes for both middle and high school athletic activities, excluding invitationals are: Student passes, $40 for all sporting events; adult passes, $80 for all sporting events; family passes, $200 for admission of all immediate family members who are residents, to all sporting events. • Approved the low bid of $12,300 from Dean Boiler to replace the condensate pipe in the tunnel between Central Elementary and the middle school. • Approved the low bid of $24,398 from A1 Asphalt to repair cracks and restripe parking lots throughout the district. The board also approved a bid of $6,800 from A-1 to seal coat and restripe the parking lot at Star Elementary. • Accepted a donation of $2,000 from the Richard B. Messer Trust, which will be used for scholarships for students who can not afford cross country camp. • Approved the following committee and organizational liaison appointments for the 2012-13 school year: Executive committee — Beck, chairperson; Patton, Garrison, Longstreet; legislation/policy committee — Patricia Endsley, chairperson; Patton, Jon Hart; career/curriculum/vocational education committee — Eugene Haas, chairperson; Endsley, Longstreet; personnel committee — Garrison, chairperson; Endsley, Patton; finance committee — Longstreet, chairperson; Haas, Beck; negotiations committee — Beck, chairperson; Hart, Patton; property/insurance/transportation committee — Patton, chairperson; Haas, Longstreet; community relations committee — Beck, chairperson; Hart, Garrison; Hastings Area Schools Improvement Team representative, Garrison; Hastings Area School Systems Employee Benefits Committee representative, Patton; alternates, Garrison, and Hart; Hastings Area School Systems Tenure Committee representatives, Haas, and Longstreet; Hastings Education Enrichment Foundation representative, Beck; Michigan Association of School Boards liaison, Garrison. • Announced the deadline for filing a petition with the Barry County clerk’s office to run for a seat on the board of education during the Nov. 6 election is 4 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 14. Current board members and the expiration of their current terms are: Beck, Dec. 31, 2016; Endsley, Dec., 31, 2012; Garrison, Dec. 31, 2014; Haas, Dec. 31, 2012; Hart, Dec. 31, 2012; Longstreet, Dec. 31, 2014; Patton, Dec. 31, 2016. • Announced the next regular meeting of the board will be 7:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 20, at Hastings Middle School. RE-ELECTHHHHHHH MARLENE FORMAN Carlton Township Treasurer T RE-ELEC Paid for by the Committee to Re-Elect Marlene Forman, 3415 N. Charlton Park Rd., Hastings, MI 49058 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, July 26, 2012 — Page 9 News from the Banner pages 150 years ago The following carried the headline “Local Incidents of the Civil War Years Revealed in a ‘Digest’ of the Banner of 1862,” and was printed in Harold Burpee’s Fresh out of the Attic compilation of articles from the Hastings Banner. ***** This week, “Old 100 Years Ago Burpee” brings to your attention some hot news facts of a century ago (this “Attic” was taken from the Jan., 1962 edition) which I found in my Banner scrapbook from an article prepared by M.L. Cook. The year 1862 came to the little village on the Thornapple, as it did to many another in the north, bringing many heartaches and sorrows, and some broken homes, because of the Civil War. Not much of what occurred in the village or vicinity was reflected in the columns of the Hastings Banner. Most of the 10 or 12 columns devoted to reading matter mentioned the war and its progress, or was devoted to defending the Lincoln administration and its conduct of the war. The first page, however, continued to give its readers a story now and then, or miscellaneous reading. Very few Hastings or Barry County folks or events were mentioned. ***** But Editor Nevins showed that his heart was right in the New Year’s greeting he extended to his readers. He said: “A Happy New Year, kind reader, is the greeting we bring you, yet how much sadness may we recall by thus publicly expressing our heart’s most earnest wish. The new year is nature’s index, pointing to scenes of sadness as well as seasons of joy. Reader, in these times of terrible war, much more than in other times, there are forsaken hearths and desolate homes, where unwelcome want, blasted hopes and blank despair enter at midday. Let us then, while seeking happiness for ourselves during this new year, kindly and in charity remember those who inhabit these waste places.” ***** In the same January issue the editor says: “We want and need wood. Cannot our subscribers more promptly respond to our need? Try it.” [Several letters that were published have been reprinted in 2012 issues of the Reminder.] ***** Many letters from Barry County soldiers find their way into the Banner’s columns. One was signed this week by Oliver H. Greenfield. His home was on North Broadway. He volunteered among the first. His letter was written from Beaufort, South Carolina. Most of the letters are signed by initials only. ***** Conditions were not ideal in the village, evidently; for we find this item in the Banner of Feb. 5, 1862: “One of the most odious features of the drunken brawl, Saturday night, was that even boys were permitted to become drunk and noisy.” ***** In the issue of Feb. 12, 1862, we find the announcement of the marriage of William B. Hitchcock and Miss Angelia Hayes, oldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Willard Hayes. The ceremony was performed by Rev. A.H. Gaston, Feb. 8. I wish every reader had the privilege of knowing “Uncle Billy” Hitchcock as every one called him. For years, his fine horse and democrat wagon, under his guidance, not only delivered express parcels in the city, but did a general delivery business. His quick trips, his great cheerfulness, made him and his business a feature here in the horse-and-buggy era. If you gave him an order days ahead of its execution, he never forgot. He was there on time and did all you could expected of him. He was quite deaf, but he never moped about it. You knew he understood what you wanted, or he would have asked further particulars. His cheerfulness and faithfulness made one glad to give Uncle Billy any business in his line. Late in life, when his wife had died and his children had married and moved away, he lived alone in a neat little cabin he was permitted to build on the fairgrounds. And his friends did not forget him. They called on him often, and he always seemed very happy and cheerful. ***** The village and township elections in the Spring of 1862 resulted in a clean sweep for the Democrats. But in the county, 13 of the 16 supervisors were Republicans. Under the heading of “Improvements,” the Banner mentions the fact that the village council had ordered the construction of a village pound. The issue of April 30 says, “Not much excitement this week, except the arrest of one of our citizens for pummeling his wife. He paid $5 and spent 10 days in jail.” ***** The issue of Oct. 22 reports that the following Barry County soldiers had been released from the rebel prison at Charleston, South Carolina; John M. Bessmer, W.G. Barrett, Emmett Cole, F.B. Pease and A.B. Overton. The Banner of May 7, 1862, has this item: “On and after May 10, hogs are prohibited from running at large in the village streets, by order of the village council. **** Another statement appeared in that issue, which reminded the writer of the spring of 1947. It said: “We have had no days as yet this spring in which fire was not necessary to comfort indoors.” ***** As the Banner was published first on May 1, that was the beginning of its year. Editor Nevins, on May 7, called attention to the change of the name of the paper. It was no longer the “Republican Banner,” but was the “Hastings Banner.” He said the village was important enough to be part of the name of the paper. ***** The issue of May 14 says: “Fire has been raging for a week in the woods about us. We have heard of no building being destroyed; but the burning of rail fences has caused a heavy loss. ***** “The village hog ordinance went into effect Monday. Several unfortunate pigs, says the Banner of May 14, 1862, “were caught in the streets and put in the village pound. Since then, building of pig pens has been active. These small enclosures, until recently unknown, are becoming numerous. It doesn’t seem quite right, and is so unlike usual conditions here, to have sidewalks becoming decent enough to travel over, and not to find gates removed from their hinges in the night and potatoes and corn, planted in one’s garden, rooted out by invading hogs.” **** In the Banner of May 21, 1862, we find this item: “On Thursday last week, several pigs, of high and low degree, were sold at the village pound to pay forfeitures and expenses. They brought from 15 cents to 80 cents each. We would say that was confiscation.” ***** The Banner of May 28, 1862, says “George H. Baker and eight others left this morning to join the 8th Michigan regiment, now in South Carolina.” The July 9 Banner of that year contains an interesting letter from James F. Mead, who describes the battle of James Island, near Charleston, which showed the courage and bravery of Barry County and other Michigan soldiers in the 8th Michigan in that battle. [See July 14, 2012, Reminder.] ***** Two weeks later the Banner states that 2nd Lt. Leonard Fitzgerald had returned to Hastings to recruit another company of Barry County volunteers. Fitzgerald Post, Grand Army of the Republic, which was organized here after the war, was named in his honor. ***** James T. McLellan, of Hastings village, was reported in the next issue of the Banner as having died of wounds he suffered in the battle of James Island.[See July 21, 2012, Reminder.] ***** “A.W. Atkins, of this village,” says the Banner of Aug. 6, 1862, “died in the College Hospital at Keokuk, Iowa. He was a musician, serving in the 2nd Michigan cavalry.” “The company of volunteers, recruited here by Lt. Leonard Fitzgerald, met here Monday,” says the Banner of Aug. 13, “to choose officers. They named Aaron Durfee, of Baltimore, captain; Perry Chance, of Castleton, 1st lieutenant; Leonard Fitzgerald, 2nd lieutenant. The following week the Banner said that the medical examiner reported that Mr. Durfee’s physical condition was such that he could not join the army. Leonard Fitzgerald was then made captain, and Mr. C. Russell, 2nd lieutenant. ***** According to the Banner of Sept. 10, 1862, Sergeant Z. Scidmore of this village, recruited 27 volunteers here for the 1st Michigan Engineers and Mechanics. They left Friday last to join their regiment. Among the 27 named in that paper, the writer knew the following: Wm. Jones, father of Chas. W. Jones, a member of the first class to graduate from Hastings High School in 1877; J.W. Warner, father of the late Chas. W. Warner, John Weissert, father of John and Charles Weissert; Wm. H. Goodyear, son of H.A. Goodyear, and for many years a Hastings druggist; Oscar H. Young, who resided for many years on Green Street; Erastus Cooley; John H. McLellan; Benona A. Cotant; Wm. Roberts; Liberty Marble and James C. Woodruff, father of John Woodruff. ***** The Banner of Oct. 15, 1862, contains a letter, two columns long, written at his army camp in the south by Captain Walbridge. He concludes his letter with a paragraph that replies to some Hastings, slanderers, who had reported wicked lies about his record in the army. Hastings friends had written him about these reports, which they refused to believe. He wrote this, in answer: “I want to say a word to readers of the Banner. Reports have had me killed, wounded, courtmartialed, a thief and a coward. Some of my friends have written me about these reports. To all I say that when you are ready to believe any of the last three named reports, and to circulate them, unless upon undoubted authority, I wish to be no longer counted as your friend. Is it not enough that one should leave all the comforts of home, endure the hardships of war and place himself as a target before a deadly enemy without being libeled?” ***** In the October 1862 Banner we find a letter from Wm. H. Powers, whose regiment was stationed near Louisville, Kentucky. Mr. Powers tells about camp life. His regiment was guarding roads and bridges. He hoped they would soon be getting into actual war. Mr. Powers was for many years county clerk, and later assistant cashier for the Hastings City Bank. ***** Each Sunday evening, said the Banner of Dec. 17, 1862, alternating between the Presbyterian and Methodist churches, the two Sunday schools put on an evening program that drew big crowds. ***** Very Unusual - The Banner of Dec. 31 had this item: “During a residence here of nine years, we have never known of a marriage being solemnized in a church, until last Sunday evening, when, after the concert by the Sunday school had concluded, Julius Russell and Charlotte Barlow were united in the holy bonds of matrimony by Rev. A.H. Gaston.” ***** In the Dec. 31 issue, Editor Nevins, a loyal Presbyterian, made the unique suggestion: “In view of the usual very slim attendance at Sunday evening preaching services at the Presbyterian church, and the crowds which attend the Sunday school concerts there Sunday nights, it has been suggested that hiring a couple to be married in the church that evening might be a religious proposition. It was noticeable last Sunday night that nearly every church member and many nonmembers were there, and every seat was filled.” The Banner of Dec. 31, 1862 mentioned a few of the many things that brought added burdens to President Lincoln in the conduct of the war. Seymour was elected governor of the great State of New York on a platform demanding an early peace with the confederates. That issue also mentioned a tremendous mass meeting in New York City, addressed by Leonard Wood, who claimed to be and who probably had been, in touch with the rebel leaders. They said they wanted peace and would return to the Union on two conditions: (1) That the state and not the nation, should decide whether they would allow slavery; (2) that the Republicans retire from the Presidency and both branches of congress, and give the Democratic party complete control of the federal government. Then they would return “and let bygones be bygones – forgive and be forgiven. That speech was heartily cheered. Suppose that had been done – and there was heavy pressure on Congress to end the war on these terms. Such a peace was urged by financial leaders in New York, for business reasons, it would have been a terrible mistake. There was only one thing to do, as Lincoln said, and that was to defeat the rebels and make them understand that no nation can exist half slave and half free, and that the human rights guaranteed by our constitution must be accorded all Americans, without regard to color or creed. The market report for the closing day of 1862 showed that food prices had advanced very little. Here they are: Wheat per bushel $1.00 Potatoes per bushel .25 Beans per bushel .80 Butter per pound .14 Lard per pound .09 Eggs per dozen .12 City of Hastings REQUEST FOR BIDS Sale of 1997 Ford F-800 Dump Truck City of Hastings REQUEST FOR BIDS 2013 Utility Work Truck The City of Hastings is soliciting bids for the provision of one 2013 model 4WD Extended Cab Utility Work Truck for use by the Department of Public Services. Specifications are available from the Office of the City Clerk. The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in the bid proposals, and to award the bid as deemed to be in the City’s best interest, price and other factors considered. Bids must be clearly marked on the outside of the submittal package: “Year 2013 4WD Extended Cab Utility Work Truck.” Bids will be received at the Office of the City Clerk/Treasurer, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 until 10:00 AM, on Tuesday, August 7, 2012 at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. Tim Girrbach Director of Public Services 77569622 The City of Hastings will accept bids for the sale of one 1997 Ford F-800 Dump Truck. This vehicle will be sold as-is, without warranty of any kind, and has approximately 30,000 miles on it. Arrangements to view this vehicle can be made by calling 945-2468 weekdays between the hours of 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM. The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in any bid, and to award the bid in a manner that the City deems to be in its best interest, price and other factors considered. Bids will be received at the office of the Hastings City Clerk/Treasurer, 201 East State Street, Hastings, MI 49058 until 9:30 AM on Tuesday, August 7, 2012 at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. The winning bid, if any, will be approved at the City Council meeting on August 13, 2012. Winning bidder must be prepared to take possession with certified funds between August 14 and August 17, 2012. No formal bidding forms or documents are required, but all bids must be in writing and sealed. Sealed bids must be clearly marked on the outside of the bid package: “SEALED BID – 1997 Ford F-800 Dump Truck” Thomas E. Emery City Clerk/Treasurer 77569625 NOTICE FOR BIDS CARLTON TOWNSHIP The Carlton Township Board is accepting sealed bids for job #12-1 Painting of the Old Township Hall located at 1908 M43 Hwy., Hastings, MI 49058. The job description can be obtained from the Carlton Township offices at 85 Welcome Rd., Hastings, MI 49058. You may make an appointment for physical inspection of the building by contacting the township office at 269-945-5990. Bids are due by 5:00pm August 13, 2012 and can be submitted in person or by mail to Carlton Township Board, ATTN: Job #12-1, 85 Welcome Rd., Hastings, MI 49058. Michele Erb, Clerk Carlton Township Hall 85 Welcome Rd. Hastings, MI 49058 269-945-5990 77569661 City of Hastings REQUEST FOR BIDS Sale of 1993 Ford Super Duty Dump Truck The City of Hastings will accept bids for the sale of one 1993 Ford Super Duty Dump Truck. This vehicle will be sold as-is, without warranty of any kind, and has approximately 50,000 miles on it. Arrangements to view this vehicle can be made by calling 945-2468 weekdays between the hours of 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM. The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in any bid, and to award the bid in a manner that the City deems to be in its best interest, price and other factors considered. Bids will be received at the office of the Hastings City Clerk/Treasurer, 201 East State Street, Hastings, MI 49058 until 9:30 AM on Tuesday, August 7, 2012 at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. The winning bid, if any, will be approved at the City Council meeting on August 13, 2012. Winning bidder must be prepared to take possession with certified funds between August 14 and August 17, 2012. No formal bidding forms or documents are required, but all bids must be in writing and sealed. Sealed bids must be clearly marked on the outside of the bid package: “SEALED BID – 1993 Ford Super Duty Dump Truck.” Thomas E. Emery City Clerk/Treasurer 77569625 77569628 �Page 10 — Thursday, July 26, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES SYNOPSIS PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP Regular Meeting July 11, 2012 Supervisor J. Stoneburner called the meeting to order at 7:01 p.m. Present: Supervisor J. Stoneburner, Treasurer K. McGuire, Trustee Grundy and Trustee R. Goebel Absent: none Also present were 16 guest. Pledge of allegiance and a moment of silence for our troops. Agenda was approved with changes. Minutes were presented to the Board and approved. Correspondence was read. Barry County Commissioner report was given. Public Comment was received. Parks Report was given. Fire Departments report was placed on file. Police Department report was placed on file. Supervisor’s Report was received. Treasurer’s Report was received. Clerk’s Report was received. Approve to pay Township bills for $209,504.96. Approved the lease agreement between Prairieville Township and John VanderDussen/ Prairieview Dairy, effective August 1, 2012, for Prairieville Township Fire Department. Approved the first month payment on the lease with John VanderDussen/Prairieview Dairy in the amount of $400.00, before August 1, 2012. Approved the quote from Five Alarm in the amount of $11540.00 for SCBA. Tabled the personnel policy amendment until further information can be gathered. Approved Resolution to Approve Amendment No. 1 Articles of Incorporation for the Southwest County Sewer and Water Authority. Discussion regarding Barry Township bill for mutual aid from Hickory Corners Fire Department. Public comments were received. Board comments were received. Meeting adjourned at 8:55 p.m. Submitted by: Jill Owens, Clerk Attested to by: 77569673 Jim Stoneburner, Supervisor IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Gregory R. Price and Tricia Price, husband and wife, as joint tenants with full rights of survivorship, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lenders successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated December 23, 2005 and recorded February 24, 2006 in Instrument Number 1160524, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Citibank, N.A., as Trustee for Bear Stearns Asset Backed Securities I Trust 2006-HE3, Asset Backed-Certificates, Series 2006HE3 by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred ThirtyThree Thousand Nine Hundred Forty-One and 35/100 Dollars ($133,941.35) including interest at 5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 08/23/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Woodland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Township of Woodland, County of Barry, Michigan: Lot 37 of McLenithan Subdivision, according to the recorded Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 44, also, commencing at the Southeast corner of Lot 37 of McLenithan's Subdivision, according to the recorded Plat thereof; thence Southwesterly 17 feet; thence Northwesterly 50 feet parallel to the Southwest of said Lot 37; thence Northeasterly 17 feet to the Southwest corner of Lot 37; thence Southeasterly along the Southwest side of said Lot 37 to the place of beginning, being in the Southwest 1/4 of Section 4, Town 4 North, Range 7 West. Also, Lot 38 of McLenithan's Subdivision, Jordan Lake, according to the recorded plat thereof. Also, commencing at the Southeast corner of Lot 38 McLenithan's Subdivision, according to the recorded Plat thereof; thence Southwesterly 17 feet; thence Northwesterly 45 feet parallel to the Southwest side of said Lot 38; thence Northeasterly 17 feet to the Southwest corner of Lot 38; thence Southeasterly along the Southwest side of said Lot 38 to the place of beginning, All being in the Southwest 1/4 of Section 4, Town 4 North, Range 7 West. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: July 26, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 199.5052 77569706 (07-26)(08-16) SYNOPSIS RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP REGULAR BOARD MEETING JULY 11, 2012 -7:30 P.M. Regular meeting called to order and Pledge of Allegiance. Present: Greenfield, Hawthorne, Carr, Lee, Hanshaw, Flint Absent: Bellmore Approved the Agenda as amended. Approved the Consent Agenda as presented. Approved Supervisor to be interim Zoning Administrator until 11/20/12 with the assistance of the Clerk's Office with extra compensation. Reappointed Tracy Baker and Larry Haywood to the Planning Commission. Reappointed Larry Haywood to the Zoning Board of Appeals. Adopted Resolution #2012-153, Charitable Gaming License for Barry County Agricultural Fair Improvement Fund. Approved the Ed Koehn five day car sale at WalMart. Accepted Ordinance #2012-142 for first reading by roll call vote. Meeting Adjourned at 9:08p.m. Respectfully submitted, Robin Hawthorne, Clerk Attested to by, Jim Carr, Supervisor www.rutlandtownship.org 77569685 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Betty A May A Single Woman, original mortgagor(s), to National City Mortgage Services Co, Mortgagee, dated July 15, 2004, and recorded on July 16, 2004 in instrument 1130923, in Barry county records, Michigan, and assigned by mesne assignments to PNC Bank, National Association as assignee, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Forty-Six Thousand Forty-Two and 43/100 Dollars ($46,042.43). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 23, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 66 of Steven's Wooded Acres, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 4 or Plats, Page 31 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #394409F02 77569631 (07-26)(08-16) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Danny R. Daugherty, A Single Person, original mortgagor(s), to National Bank of Hastings, Mortgagee, dated November 1, 2002, and recorded on November 23, 2002 in instrument 1092225, and assigned by said Mortgagee to PHH Mortgage Corporation as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-One Thousand Three Hundred FortyFive and 09/100 Dollars ($61,345.09). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 9, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The South 50 feet of Lots 36 and 37 and the North 32 feet of vacated Lincoln Street of Kelly's Addition No. 1, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 94. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #406008F01 77569349 (07-12)(08-02) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Michael Pifer, a single man and Jacqulyn Tompkins, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, Mortgagee, dated June 18, 2007, and recorded on June 20, 2007 in instrument 1181982, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-One Thousand Five Hundred Ninety-Four and 59/100 Dollars ($131,594.59). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 9, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 30 of Sandy Knolls Plat No. 2 according to the Plat thereof recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 94 of Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #405666F01 77569357 (07-12)(08-02) FORECLOSURE NOTICE RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES, P.C. MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. Mortgage Sale - Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by MIKE KENYON, HUSBAND AND WIFE AS JOINT TENANTS, AND LINDA KENYON, HUSBAND AND WIFE, AS JOINT TENANTS to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. acting solely as a nominee for America`s Wholesale Lender, Mortgagee, dated November 15, 2005, and recorded on November 23, 2005, as Document Number: 1156700, Barry County Records, said mortgage was assigned to THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-17 by an Assignment of Mortgage dated October 07, 2011 and recorded October 24, 2011 by Document Number: 201110240009977, , on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Fifty-Five Thousand Nine Hundred Eighty-Five and 32/100 ($55,985.32) including interest at the rate of 4.55000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the Circuit Court in said Barry County, where the premises to be sold or some part of them are situated, at 01:00 PM on August 9, 2012 Said premises are situated in the Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 53 of O.A. Phillips Addition to Village of Nashville, County of Barry, State of Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof. Commonly known as: 315 CLEVELAND If the property is eventually sold at foreclosure sale, the redemption period will be 6.00 months from the date of sale unless the property is abandoned or used for agricultural purposes. If the property is determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 and/or 600.3241a, the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of sale, or 15 days after statutory notice, whichever is later. If the property is presumed to be used for agricultural purposes prior to the date of the foreclosure sale pursuant to MCL 600.3240, the redemption period is 1 year. Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages are, if any, limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: July 12, 2012 Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-17 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302, (248) 335-9200 Case No. 12MI02107-1 77569389 (07-12)(08-02) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Paul B. Fifelski and Karen Fifelski, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated November 20, 2009, and recorded on December 1, 2009 in instrument 200912010011617, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Three Thousand Four Hundred Fifty-Two and 92/100 Dollars ($83,452.92). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 16, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 38 of Middleville Down No. 2 to the Village of Middleville, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats on page 13, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #403961F01 77569429 (07-19)(08-09) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Charles N. Teunessen and Shannon L. Teunessen, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Wells Fargo Bank, NA, Mortgagee, dated March 26, 2007, and recorded on April 2, 2007 in instrument 1178197, in Barry county records, Michigan, and assigned by said Mortgagee to HSBC Bank USA, National Association as Trustee for Wells Fargo Asset Securities Corporation, Mortgage Asset-BackedPass-Through Certificates Series 2007-PA2 as assignee, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ninety Thousand Four Hundred Sixty-Six and 66/100 Dollars ($190,466.66). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 23, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel 3: Commencing at the West 1/4 Post of Section 3, Town 2 North, Range 9 West; thence South 00 degrees 00 minutes 02 seconds West 995.29 feet along the West line of Section 3; thence South 87 degrees 28 minutes 31 seconds East 1924.87 feet along the North line of the South 100 Acres of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 3 for the true Place of Beginning; thence North 00 degrees 00 minutes 02 seconds East 340.00 feet; thence South 87 degrees 28 minutes 31 seconds East 206.00 feet; thence South 00 degrees 00 degrees 00 seconds 02 minutes West 340.00 feet to said North line of 100 Acres; thence North 87 degrees 28 minutes 31 seconds West 206.00 feet along the centerline of Anders Road to the Place of Beginning. Subject to highway right of way over the Southerly 33 feet thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #407014F01 77569536 (07-26)(08-16) AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTIFY US AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by Tammy Rose Dull And Steven John Paul Claypool, A single woman and A single man , Mortgagors, to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., Mortgagee, dated the 9th day of June, 2010 and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, for The County of Barry and State of Michigan, on the 22nd day of June, 2010 in Liber INSTRUMENT # 201006220006032 of Barry County Records, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, the sum of One Hundred Three Thousand Two Hundred Thirty Seven And 31/100 ($103237.31), and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on the 9th day of August, 2012 at 1:00 PM o’clock Local Time, said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI (that being the building where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held), of the premises described in said mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due, as aforesaid on said mortgage, with interest thereon at 5.5% per annum and all legal costs, charges, and expenses, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sum or sums which may be paid by the undersigned, necessary to protect its interest in the premises. Which said premises are described as follows: All that certain piece or parcel of land, including any and all structures, and homes, manufactured or otherwise, located thereon, situated in the Township of Rutland, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and described as follows, to wit: LOT 344 AND THE NORTHWEST 1/2 OF LOT 343 OF ALGONQUIN LAKE PROPERTIES UNIT NO. 2 ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF IN LIBER 2 ON PAGE 63 AND THE NORTHWESTERLY 1/2 OF LOT 343 BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS COMMENCING AT THE CORNER COMMON TO LOTS 343 AND 344 OF OTTAWA TRAIL; THENCE SOUTHEASTERLY ON THE LINE OF LOT 343, A DISTANCE OF 25 FEET; THENCE SOUTHWESTERLY PARALLELL TO THE LINE OF LOTS 344 AND 343 TO THE LOT LINE; THENCE NORTHWESTERLY ALONG THE LINE OF LOT 343 AND 344, 125.8 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. During the six (6) months immediately following the sale, the property may be redeemed, except that in the event that the property is determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241a, the property may be redeemed during 30 days immediately following the sale. Pursuant to MCLA 600.3278, the mortgagor(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 7/12/2012 JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Mortgagee FABRIZIO & BROOK, P.C. Attorney for JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. 888 W. Big Beaver, Suite 800 Troy, Ml 48084 248-362-2600 CHASE FARM GNMA DULL 77569379 (07-12)(08-02) FORECLOSURE NOTICE THIS IS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE Default has occurred in a Mortgage made on November 29, 2010 by Jerry D. Ray and Josie P. Ray, Mortgagor, to Hastings City Bank, a Michigan corporation, as Mortgagee. The Mortgage was recorded on December 6, 2010 in the Office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan in Instrument No. 201012060011368. At the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due and unpaid on the Mortgage the sum of NinetyTwo Thousand Six Hundred Seventeen and 26/100 Dollars ($92,617.26), including interest at 3.875% per annum. No suit or proceedings have been instituted to recover any part of the debt secured by the Mortgage, and the power of sale contained in the Mortgage has become operative by reason of such default. On Thursday, August 30, 2012, at one o'clock in the afternoon at the east steps of the Barry County Courthouse, 220 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan, which is the place for holding mortgage sales for Barry County, Michigan, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder, at public sale, for the purpose of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid upon the Mortgage, together with the legal costs and charges of sale, including attorneys' fees allowed by law, the property located in the Township of Rutland, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and described in the Mortgage as follows: A parcel of land in the Southeast 1/4 of Section 13, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, Rutland Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as beginning at a point on the south line of said Section 13 which lies South 89 degrees 13’ 30” West 395.70 feet from the Southeast corner of said Section 13; thence South 89 degrees 13’ 30” West 239.30 feet; thence due North 256.18 feet; thence South 89 degrees 56’ East 223.83 feet; thence South 13 degrees 02’ 40” East 67.77 feet; thence due South 186.57 feet to the point of beginning. Including rights of ingress and egress to said premises from Cook Road. More commonly known as 985 Arthur Court, Hastings, Michigan 49058 The redemption period shall be six months from the date of the sale unless the property is deemed abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a in which case the redemption period shall be thirty days after the foreclosure sale or when the time to provide the notice required by subdivision MCL 600.3241a(c) expires, whichever is later. MILLER JOHNSON Attorneys for Hastings City Bank /s/ Rachel J. Foster Dated: July 24, 2012 By: Rachel J. Foster 303 North Rose Street, Suite 600 Kalamazoo, Michigan 49007 77569677 269-226-2982 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, July 26, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on May 13, 2005, by Kari L. Geller (a/k/a Kari L. Fisher), a single woman, as Mortgagor, given by her to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on May 16, 2005, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 1146597, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank on March 16, 2012, recorded on March 20, 2012, in Instrument Number 201203200002836, Barry County Records, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of Thirty-Nine Thousand Five Hundred Ten and 36/100 Dollars ($39,510.36); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, August 9, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF JOHNSTOWN, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: The South 10 feet of Lot 6 and the North 90 feet of Lot 7 of the Plat of Fernwood, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 4 of Plats on Page 29, being also described as: Commencing on Winana Drive at the corner common to Lots 6 and 7 of the Plat of Fernwood; thence North 14 degrees 9 minutes East on the Lot line a distance of 10 feet; thence North 89 degrees 40 minutes West parallel with the lot line 120 feet; thence South 14 degrees 9 minutes West on the lot line 100 feet; thence South 89 degrees 40 minutes East parallel with the lot line 120 feet; thence North 14 degrees 9 minutes East 90 feet on the lot line to the place of beginning. Commonly known as: 12076 Winans Drive, Dowling, Michigan 49050-8814 Parcel Number: 0809-070-005-00 The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: June 27, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, 77569228 MI 48933 (517) 371-8253 (07-05)(07-26) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Robert A Caldwell and Shawn M Caldwell, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Broadmoor Financial Services, Inc., Mortgagee, dated May 28, 2002, and recorded on June 4, 2002 in instrument 1081605, and assigned by mesne assignments to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Seven Thousand Six Hundred Ninety-Six and 24/100 Dollars ($87,696.24). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 9, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the center of Section 6, Town 2 North, Range 7 West; thence East 627 feet; thence South 66 feet; thence South 37 degrees West 300 feet; thence South 30 degrees 28 minutes West 381 feet; thence South 22 degrees 12 minutes West 40 feet; thence North 86 degrees 7 minutes West 297.3 feet to the center of Morgan Road; thence follow the center of Morgan Road North 28 degrees 59 minutes East 118 feet; thence North 01 degrees 21 minutes East 536.1 feet to the place of beginning, except the North 412 feet thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #405283F01 77569236 (07-12)(08-02) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Josh Spurr and Jessica Spurr, Husband and Wife, to Fifth Third Mortgage - MI, LLC, Mortgagee, dated September 27, 2007 and recorded October 2, 2007 in Instrument Number 20071002-0002661, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Fifth Third Mortgage Company by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Eight Thousand Thirty-Six and 90/100 Dollars ($128,036.90) including interest at 6.75% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 08/02/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land located in the Township of Irving, Barry County, State of Michigan, and described as follows: A parcel of land in the Northeast 1/4 of section 32, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, described as: commencing at the North 1/4 post of said section 32; thence East on the center of Grange Road 389 feet for the place of beginning; thence East on the center line of said road 125 feet; thence South 734 feet; thence West 125 feet; thence North 734 feet to the place of beginning The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: July 5, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 200.4996 77569196 (07-05)(07-26) FORECLOSURE NOTICE RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES, P.C. MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. Mortgage Sale - Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by Anthony Moore a single man to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., acting solely as nominee for Advantage Lending Corp., Mortgagee, dated October 5, 2009, and recorded on October 7, 2009, as Document Number: 200910130010098, Barry County Records, said mortgage was assigned to Bank of America, N.A. as successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP fka Counrtywide Home Loans Servicing, LP by an Assignment of Mortgage dated September 29, 2011 and recorded October 13, 2011 by Document Number: 201110130009601, , on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Two Thousand Two Hundred Ten and 40/100 ($72,210.40) including interest at the rate of 5.75000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the Circuit Court in said Barry County, where the premises to be sold or some part of them are situated, at 01:00 PM on August 9, 2012 Said premises are situated in the Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: LOT NUMBER 48 OF THE LAPHAMS AIRPORT LOTS, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF, AS RECORDED IN LIBER 3 OF PLATS ON PAGE 100, AND LOT 49 OF THE LAPHAMS AIRPORT LOTS NUMBER 2, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF, AS RECORDED IN LIBER 5 OF PLATS, ON PAGE 87. Commonly known as: 6009 MARSH RD If the property is eventually sold at foreclosure sale, the redemption period will be 6.00 months from the date of sale unless the property is abandoned or used for agricultural purposes. If the property is determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 and/or 600.3241a, the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of sale, or 15 days after statutory notice, whichever is later. If the property is presumed to be used for agricultural purposes prior to the date of the foreclosure sale pursuant to MCL 600.3240, the redemption period is 1 year. Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages are, if any, limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: July 12, 2012 Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Bank of America, N.A. as successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP fka Counrtywide Home Loans Servicing, LP 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302, (248) 335-9200 Case No. 77569384 12MI01744-1 (07-12)(08-02) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Clifton W. Blauvelt and Patricia A. Blauvelt, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Option One Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated November 6, 2006, and recorded on November 13, 2006 in instrument 1172659, and assigned by said Mortgagee to H & R Block Bank, a Federal Savings Bank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thousand Eight Hundred Eighty and 36/100 Dollars ($100,880.36). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 9, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Part of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 17, Town 2 North, Range 10 West, Orangeville Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Beginning at a point 332 feet East of the Southwest corner of said Section; thence East 178 feet; thence North 320 feet; thence West 178 feet; thence South 320 feet to the point of beginning The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #405929F01 77569242 (07-12)(08-02) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Dale Krueger Jr., a married man and Frances Krueger, his wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated January 19, 2007 and recorded February 8, 2007 in Instrument Number 1176188, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Bank of America, N.A., as successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. FKA Countrywide Home Loans Servicing L.P by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ninety-Eight Thousand Four and 17/100 Dollars ($198,004.17) including interest at 4.625% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 08/09/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Real property in the Township of Thornapple, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and is described as follows; Lot 6, Thornapple Bends Estates, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats, Page 35. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: July 12, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 285.6471 (07-12)(08-02) 77569399 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on May 14, 2004, by Alvin P. Hawley and Aimee L. Hawley, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, given by them to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on May 19, 2004, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 1127874, which mortgage was modified on July 27, 2009, recorded on August 7, 2009, in Instrument Number 200908070008132, Barry County Records, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank by an Assignment of Mortgage dated January 18, 2011, recorded January 28, 2011, in Instrument Number 201101280001033, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of Forty-Nine Thousand One Hundred Sixty-Six and 74/100 Dollars ($49,166.74); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, August 9, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: Lot 4, of Block 8 of the Village of Woodland, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats on page 21 and a 2 rod strip on the East end of said Lot 4, also a part of Lot 3, of Block 8 of the Village of Woodland and part of the Southwest quarter of Section 15, Town 4 North, Range 7 West, described as: Commencing 60 feet East of the Southwest corner of Block 8 of said Plat, thence North 12 rods to the place of beginning, thence East 113 feet 3 inches, thence South 60 feet, thence West 113 feet 3 inches, thence North 60 feet to the place of beginning. Commonly Known As: 134 N. State Street, Woodland, Michigan 48897 Tax Parcel Number: 08-15-110-032-00 The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: June 27, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933 (517) 37177569184 8253 (07-05)(07-26) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Timothy Joppie, unmarried man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for Quicken Loans Inc. its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated August 8, 2008, and recorded on August 11, 2008 in instrument 20080811-0008163, in Barry county records, Michigan, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Seventy-Seven Thousand Two Hundred Sixty-Eight and 79/100 Dollars ($177,268.79). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 2, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Baltimore, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The West 43 Acres of the North fractional 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 2, Town 2 North, Range 8 West, Baltimore Township, Barry County, Michigan Except That part of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 2, Town 2 North, Range 8 West, Baltimore Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner of said Section; thence North 89 degrees 58 minutes 00 seconds East 163.87 feet along the North line of said Northwest 1/4 to the place of beginning; thence continuing North 89 degrees 58 minutes 00 seconds East 1019.73 feet along said North line to the East line of the West 43 Acres of the North fractional 1/2 of said Northwest 1/4; thence South 00 degrees 38 minutes 33 seconds East 1027.04 feet along said East line; thence South 89 degrees 58 minutes 00 seconds West 886.11 feet parallel with said North line to the Centerline of Davidson Road; thence North 03 degrees 58 minutes 18 seconds West 428.66 feet along said Centerline; thence North 07 degrees 53 minutes 18 seconds West 203.52 feet along said Centerline; thence North 08 degrees 46 minutes 47 seconds West 268.16 feet along said Centerline; thence North 19 degrees 07 minutes 00 seconds West 140.40 feet along said Centerline to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #403574F01 (07-05)(07-26) 77569167 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Matthew Schultz and Nicole Schultz, husband and wife as joint tenants, original mortgagor(s), to Arbor Mortgage, Mortgagee, dated December 16, 2005, and recorded on January 3, 2006 in instrument 1158410, and assigned by mesne assignments to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Seventy-Eight Thousand Eight Hundred Seventy-Seven and 87/100 Dollars ($178,877.87). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 23, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North 375 feet of the East 850 feet of the South 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 23, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, Irving Township, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #281531F03 77569542 (07-26)(08-16) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF A MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on February 26, 2004, by Ronald J. Pelli and Patricia A. Pelli, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, given by them to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on March 3, 2004, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 1123097, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank on May 22, 2012, recorded on May 24, 2012, in Instrument Number 2012-000510, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of Eighty-Four Thousand Six Hundred Sixty-Eight and 31/100 Dollars ($84,668.31); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, August 9, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: A Parcel of Land in the Northeast quarter of Section 33, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, described as: Commencing at the North quarter corner of said Section 33; Thence South 89 degrees 19 minutes 49 seconds East 1321.29 feet along the North line of said Section 33; Thence South 00 degrees 57 minutes 47 seconds West 673.00 feet along the East line of the West half of the Northeast quarter of said Section 33 to the true point of beginning; Thence South 00 degrees 57 minutes 47 seconds West 220.00 feet along said East line; Thence North 89 degrees 02 minutes 13 seconds West 231.00 feet; Thence North 00 degrees 57 minutes 47 seconds East 220.00 feet; Thence South 89 degrees 02 minutes 13 seconds East 231.00 feet to the point of beginning. Together with and subject to a private easement appurtenant thereto for ingress, egress, and public utility purposes for Butterfly Lane, described separately. Description of Butterfly Lane: A strip of land in the Northeast quarter of Section 33, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, 66 feet wide, 33 feet each side of a centerline described as: Commencing at the North quarter corner of said Section 33; Thence South 89 degrees 19 minutes 49 seconds East, 1321.29 feet along the North line of said Section 33; Thence South 00 degrees 57 minutes 47 seconds West 893.00 feet along the East line of the West half of the Northeast quarter of said Section 33; Thence North 89 degrees 02 minutes 57 seconds West 231.00 feet to the true point of beginning of said centerline; Thence North 00 degrees 57 minutes 47 seconds East 440.00 feet; Thence Northerly 110.17 feet along the arc of a curve to the left, the radius of which is 549.95, the central angle of which is 11 degrees 28 minutes 41 seconds and the chord of which bears North 04 degrees 46 minutes 34 seconds West 109.99 feet; Thence continuing Northerly 110.17 feet along the arc of a curve to the right, the radius of which is 549.95 feet, the central angle of which is 11 degrees 28 minutes 41 seconds and chord of which bears North 04 degrees 46 minutes 34 seconds West 109.99 feet; Thence North 00 degrees 57 minutes 47 seconds East 231.00 feet to the North line of said Section and the end of said centerline. Commonly known as: 2872 Butterfly Lane, Middleville, Michigan 49333 Parcel Number: 08008-033-020-13 Includes a 1994 Commodore, Serial #GS04287AB The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: June 26, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933 (517) 371-8253 (07-05)(07-26) �Page 12 — Thursday, July 26, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Cora Lee Greenburg, an unmarried woman, original mortgagor(s), to World Savings Bank, FSB, Mortgagee, dated July 30, 2002, and recorded on August 13, 2007 in instrument 1085507, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Thirty-Six Thousand Ninety-Nine and 99/100 Dollars ($236,099.99). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 2, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 23, Supervisor's Plat of Long Point, as recorded in Liber 2 of Page 50, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #367213F02 77569161 (07-05)(07-26) AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTIFY (248) 362-6100 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by Robert A. Przybysz, Barbara J. Przybysz, Husband and Wife of Barry County, Michigan, Mortgagor to The Huntington Mortgage Company dated the 5th day of February, 1999, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, for the County of Barry and State of Michigan, on the 26th day of February, 1999, in Instrument No. 1025778 of Barry Records, which said mortgage was assigned to The Huntington National Bank, thru mesne assignments, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, for principal of $171,373.10 (one hundred seventy-one thousand three hundred seventythree and 10/100) plus accrued interest at 3.00% (three point zero zero) percent per annum. And no suit proceedings at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to the statue of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on, the 23rd day of August, 2012, at 1:00:00 PM said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI, Barry County, Michigan, of the premises described in said mortgage. Which said premises are described as follows: All that certain piece or parcel of land situate in the Township of Orangeville, in the County of Barry and State of Michigan and described as follows to wit: Situated in the Township of Orangeville, County of Barry and State of Michigan: Lot 4, and the East 40 feet of Lots 30, 33 and 41 of Wildwood Plat, according to the recorded plat thereof as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 60. Commonly known as: 10964 Anchor Cove Dr Tax Parcel No.: 11-145-007-00 (Lot 4) and 11-145-002-00 (E. 40 ft Lots 30, 33 and 41) The redemption period shall be six months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: July 26, 2012 By: Foreclosing Attorneys Attorney for Plaintiff Weltman, Weinberg & Reis Co., L.P.A. 2155 Butterfield Drive, Suite 200-S Troy, MI 48084 77569711 WWR# 10095350 (07-26)(08-16) NOTICE TO THE RESIDENTS OF BARRY COUNTY Notice is hereby given that the Barry County Zoning Board of Appeals will conduct a public hearing for the following: Case Number V-6-2012 Ashley & Sandra Nichols Location: 11448 Letch’s Lane at Gilkey Lake in Section 10 of Barry Twp Purpose: Requesting a variance to erect a deck extension 12 x 20 ft and 6 x 20 ft that is too close to the rear lot line 9.6 ft (the minimum is 30 ft) per Section 1005 (5.)(c.) in the RL zoning district. Case Number V-7-2012 Janet Rowse Location: 3001 West Shore Drive at Fine Lake in Section 30 of Johnstown Twp Purpose: Requesting a variance to erect a deck 10 x 24 ft that is too close to the rear lot line 5 ft (the minimum is 30 ft) per Section1005 (5.)(c.) in the RL zoning district. MEETING DATE: August 13, 2012 TIME: 7:00 PM PLACE: Community Room, Courts & Law Building at 206 West Court Street, Hastings MI Site inspection of the above described property will be completed by the Zoning Board of Appeals members before the hearing. Interested persons desiring to present their views upon an appeal either verbally or in writing will be given the opportunity to be heard at the above mentioned time and place. Any written response may be mailed to the address listed below, faxed to (269) 948-4820 or email to: jmcmanus@barrycounty.org. The variance applications are available for public inspection at the Barry County Planning Office, 220 West State Street, Hastings MI 49058 during the hours of 8am to 5pm (closed between 12pm to 1pm) Monday - Friday. Please call the Planning Office at (269) 945-1290 for further information. The County of Barry will provide necessary auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/hearing upon ten (10) days notice to the County of Barry. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the County of Barry by writing or calling the following: Michael Brown, County Administrator, 220 West State Street, Hastings MI 49058, (269) 945-1284. 77569659 Pamela A. Jarvis, Barry County Clerk Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Edward N. Sabo, a married man and Lisa J. Sabo, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Exchange Financial Corporation, Mortgagee, dated January 12, 2001, and recorded on January 17, 2001 in instrument 1053974, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Chase Manhattan Mortgage Corporation as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Eight Thousand Six Hundred NinetySeven and 57/100 Dollars ($98,697.57). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 2, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 11, 12 and 13 of Eastwood Acres, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats on Page 7. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #403605F01 77560957 (07-05)(07-26) PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PARTIES PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a Public Hearing will be held by the Prairieville Township Planning Commission on August 15, 2012 at 7:00 P.M. at the Prairieville Township Hall, 10115 S. Norris Road, within the Township. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the item(s) to be considered at this public hearing include, in brief, the following: A request by Michael Nevins, 7400 Delton Rd. Delton, MI 49046 for a Special Land Use Permit to allow for the alteration of a portion of an existing accessory building that is currently being used as a beauty shop, into a single unit apartment and a storage area. The subject property is 7400 Delton Rd. Delton, MI 49046 – 08-12-001-010-00 and is located in the AG zoning district. Such other and further matters as may properly come before the Planning Commission for this meeting. All interested persons are invited to be present or submit written comments on this matter(s) to the below Township office address. Prairieville Township will provide necessary auxiliary aids and services such as signers for the hearing impaired and audiotapes of printed materials being considered at the hearing upon five (5) days notice to the Prairieville Township Clerk. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Prairieville Township Clerk at the address or telephone number set forth below. Jim Stoneburner, Township Supervisor 77569675 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-26136-DE Estate of Sharon Ann Duffy. Date of birth: 7-301938. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Sharon Ann Duffy, died April 21, 2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Daniel Duffy, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court St., Ste. 302, Hastings, MI 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: July 17, 2012 Neil P. Jansen (P41922) 900 Monroe Avenue, NW Grand Rapids, MI 49503 (616) 632-8000 Daniel Duffy 4300 Timber Ridge Trail, Apt. 2 Wyoming, MI 49519 77569524 (616) 583-0782 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Allan Snyder and Kathleen Snyder husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, Mortgagee, dated June 30, 2008, and recorded on July 10, 2008 in instrument 200807100007074, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Four Thousand Four Hundred Twenty-Seven and 27/100 Dollars ($64,427.27). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 23, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North one-half of Lots 607 and 608 of the City of Hastings, according to the plat thereof The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #407031F01 77569518 (07-26)(08-16) THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. MORTGAGE SALE--Default has been made in the conditions of a Mortgage made by CHRISTINE R. VANKAMPEN, a single woman, Mortgagor, to NPB MORTGAGE, LLC, Mortgagee, dated June 10, 2002, and recorded June 20, 2002, Instrument Number 1082541, of Barry County Records, Michigan, which mortgage was assigned by mesne assignments to First National Acceptance Company, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due as of the date of this notice $11,946.71, including interest at 11.95% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to the statutes of the State of Michigan, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public auction to the highest bidder, on Thursday, August 9, 2012, at 1 o’clock in the afternoon, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, Michigan. Said premises are situated in the Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Beginning 310.57 feet North of the NW corner of Lot 9 of Sam Bravata Plat; thence West 170.96 feet; thence North 00 degrees 33’ West 127.25 feet along the West line of the property described in the deed recorded in Liber 244, Page 407; thence South 67 degrees 39’ East (previously described as South 65 degrees 55’ East) 168 feet; thence South 70 degrees 06’47” East (previously described as South 68 degrees 23 minutes East) 17.86 feet; thence South 57.30 feet to the place of beginning.; c/k/a 4726 Princess Dr., Shelbyville, MI 49344 The redemption period shall be six months from the date of the sale, unless the premises are determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days. Please be advised that if the mortgaged property is sold at a foreclosure sale by advertisement, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 you will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale, or to the mortgage holder, for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 12, 2012 LeVasseur Dyer & Associates, PC Attorneys for Mortgagee P.O. Box 721400 Berkley, 77569342 MI 48072 (248) 586-1200 (07-12)(08-02) STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE OF PENDING ESTATE AND INTENT TO CLOSE Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 2006-24510-DE In the Matter of Alton E. Close. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: including David H. Close, whose address and whereabouts are unknown, The Estate of Alton E. Close is currently pending in the Barry County Probate Court. The personal representative of the Estate of Alton E. Close intends to close the estate and is filing a Sworn Statement to Close Unsupervised Administration with the Barry County Probate Court. The estate will be closed 28 days after the filing of the Sworn Statement. Date: July 23, 2012 Stephanie S. Fekkes P43549 150 W. Court Street Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 945-1921 Bruce Cook 11609 Bowens Mill Road Middleville, MI 49333 77569657 (269) 795-7315 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Richard Marshall aka Richard A. Marshall and Kelly Marshall, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, Inc., Mortgagee, dated September 30, 2003, and recorded on October 3, 2003 in instrument 1114814, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Forty Thousand Six Hundred Seventy-Four and 80/100 Dollars ($140,674.80). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 16, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 79 of Boulder Creek Estates, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats on Page 23. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #251147F04 77569434 (07-19)(08-09) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Matthew J. Thompson, a marred man Leah M. Thompson, spouse, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated May 24, 2006, and recorded on June 6, 2006 in instrument 1165663, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eighty-Two Thousand One Hundred Seventy-Four and 24/100 Dollars ($182,174.24). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 16, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 19 of Brookfield Acres, according to the recorded Plat thereof, being part of the North 1/2 Section 29, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, Hastings Township, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #405661F01 (07-19)(08-09) 77569374 STATE OF MICHIGAN 5th CIRCUIT COURT FAMILY DIVISION COUNTY OF BARRY PUBLICATION OF HEARING CASE NO. 12-8432-NA PETITION NO. 12008292 IN THE MATTER OF: KATHLEEN IRENE OLIVIA LOWERY A Neglect Petition has been filed in the above matter regarding: KATHLEEN OLIVIA LOWERY. DOB. 10-1-10. A TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS HEARING is scheduled for FRIDAY, AUGUST 3, 2012 10:00 A.M. And will be held at Barry County Trial Court Family Division, 206 W. Court St. Ste 302, Hastings, MI 49058. IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED THAT LEONARD PAUL LOWERY II personally appear before the Court at the time and place stated above. Failure to attend the hearing will constitute a denial of interest in the minor, a waiver of notice for all subsequent hearings, a waiver of right to appointment of an attorney, which could result in TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS. 77569362 SYNOPSIS PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP Regular Meeting June 13, 2012 Supervisor J. Stoneburner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Present: Supervisor J. Stoneburner, Treasurer K. McGuire, Trustee Grundy and Trustee R. Goebel Absent: none Also present were 11 guest. Pledge of allegiance and a moment of silence for our troops. Agenda was approved with changes. Minutes were presented to the Board and approved. Correspondence was read. Barry County Commissioner report was given. Public Comment was received. Parks Report was given. Fire Departments report was placed on file. Police Department report was placed on file. Supervisor’s Report was received. Approved to authorize Chief Thompson to order signs for the roadside of Parker Road not to exceed $1,000.00. Treasurer’s Report was received. Approved the proposal from KCI to send out tax bills and newsletter. Clerk’s Report was received. Approve to pay Township bills for $37,578.78. Authorized the contract between Prairieville Township and John VanderDussen, as presented and also authorized Trustee Grundy and Supervisor Stoneburner to present it to John VanderDussen. Authorized Supervisor Stoneburner and Trustee Grundy to offer John VanderDussen $400.00 per month for the barn rental for the Fire Department. Authorized Trustee Grundy to discuss with John VanderDussen about purchasing two acres in the Milo/Parker area, contingent upon him signing the contract. Discussed BPH Appraisals. Authorize the fireworks permit from Pine Lake Association. Discussed report on Upper Crooked Lake weeds. Public comments were received. Board comments were received. Meeting adjourned at 8:26 p.m. Submitted by: Jill Owens, Clerk Attested to by: 77569653 Jim Stoneburner, Supervisor Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Michael Batt, a single man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Amera Mortgage Corporation its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated January 12, 2011, and recorded on March 15, 2011 in instrument 201103150002680, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Nine Thousand Three Hundred Thirty-One and 31/100 Dollars ($89,331.31). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 2, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 93 of Middleville Downs Addition No. 5, Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, on Page 43, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 5, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #387348F01 77569063 (07-05)(07-26) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, July 26, 2012 — Page 13 Ethics and professionalism earn Nakfoor Pratt support IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV Sale of natural resources doesn’t belong in state’s business plan To the editor: The Yankee Springs Recreation and Barry State Game Area of Barry County were auctioned off by the State of Michigan DNR May 8 for oil and gas leasing. How did this happen? I looked at the DNR website to get an idea. Call me naïve, but, it was a surprise to learn that the DNR is no longer just about hunting, fishing and camping on our ‘public trust’ lands. In fact, their website shows they are heavily invested in business and real estate, too. Gov. Rick Snyder’s business acumen has lent itself to a new and improved approach to making money from our public trust lands, basically known as, “We’re open for business.” I find it difficult to fit the DNR’s oil and gas business model and the Pure Michigan campaign together, though, since shale gas fracking is anathema to pure land, air and water. The DNR’s mission statement says “The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future generations.” They also say that the State of Michigan is committed to an “open door” approach to government. According to Michigan Compiled Laws what is new are the changes and reinvention of Michigan constitutional rules and regulations for the creation of a regulatory environment that happens to favor and support the horizontal hydraulic shale gas fracturing industry. The Office of Regulatory Reinvention is in place to eliminate obstacles, such as pesky environmental red tape, “unnecessary and burdensome rules that are limiting economic growth,” and also states that; “Proud of our past and energized about our future, everyone at the ORR looks forward to serving you by reinventing Michigan’s regulatory environment and providing easy access to your government’s administrative process.” I would like to believe that the public lands entrusted to the State for protection are safe from frackers, but recent evidence points to the contrary. Our state game and recreation areas were sold as ‘non-development leases.’ A non-development lease does not allow any use of the land surface, including the surface of submerged bottom lands, for oil and gas exploration, development and production. In contrast, development lease means a lease that allows the use of the surface of state lands for oil and gas exploration, development and production. I had the opportunity to visit two different sites in state forests of northern Michigan that were auctioned for shale gas fracking as nondevelopment leases. One site in the Gladwin State Forest had stakes inside the forest marking the placement of the well and pad corner. This area is in a beautiful woods adjacent to a not so Pure Michigan clearcut area of somewhere between 400 and 1,000 acres. I can’t say for sure if this clearcut is to be used for drilling infrastructure but it seems likely. In addition, I visited an area in the Au Sable State Forest, just south of Houghton Lake slated for shale drilling. I saw an approximately 10-acre clearcut, gouged out of a hill with a heavily graveled drilling pad laid out, and cylindrical steel casing set up in the middle of it. A sandy two track in the woods made way for a large gravel road and ditches leading to the drive and pad for a guard station. At an informational meeting on shale gas drilling in Hopkins last Wednesday evening, a representative of the DEQ, Bill Mitchell, said he didn’t know how that could happen in a state forest. I found a way it can, though. It’s called a Classification Amendment. I noticed that in Jackson County and Gladwin County, energy companies had applied for this classification amendment that would change a nondevelopment lease designation to a development lease with restrictions designation. This was on Jan. 4. What it shows is that the DNR is perfectly willing to consider and change leases in this regard. Michigan may be open for business, but Pure Michigan land air and water should not. Corinne Turner, Orangeville Township To the editor: I have been an attorney since 1988 and have known Julie Nakfoor Pratt since 1990 when I began working in the Barry County Prosecutor’s Office, and later when she worked in the Allegan County Prosecutor’s Office. She has always been respectful of others whether victim or accused and, above all, prepared to do her job in an ethical and professional manner. She is always prepared, uses her common sense, and has never insulted an opponent for disagreeing with her. Which is why I support Julie for Barry County Prosecutor. Private practice takes me to courts and counties throughout Michigan. As a prosecutor and defense attorney, I have dealt with many true professionals like Ms. Nakfoor Pratt over my years of practice. I know her abilities well. Unlike her opponent, Julie will always uphold the rights of victims and the accused. She will always be prepared, will be a student of the law and will research issues before speaking out as an authority. Nor will she cost the county money by making public statements about private individuals which cannot be supported. Julie will give victims a say in their cases as required by law. When she tries a case, Ms. Nakfoor Pratt will be prepared well in advance of the trial. She will follow the law and court rules, will not need court orders requiring her to do so, and will not blame ‘politics’ for being held in contempt of court for failing to follow court orders like her opponent, since she would never put herself or her office in that situation. Finally, she would never disparage those who hold her to her duties as prosecutor nor look for revenge. In short, she would uphold her oath of office. Julie Nakfoor Pratt is the leader currently lacking in the Barry County Prosecutor’s Office. David E. Gilbert Pennfield Township LARGE or small, We Ship It All! Next Time, Ship Your Luggage! We make it simple, convenient and stress-free. Keep county fiscally sound To the editor: I have always thought that local elections were among the most important, and this year is no exception. I urge all voters in District 3 (Hope, Barry and southern Rutland townships) to vote for Bob Houtman in the Aug. 7 primary. Bob has proven to be a thoughtful and intelligent member of the board for several years, and he brings a wealth of experience in county and court administration to the job. We are fortunate in Barry County to have a county government that is progressive and fiscally sound, and Bob Houtman’s leadership has been one of the reasons we are in this position. He has fought to reduce the expenses of the county board, and has advocated for many improvements in county operations. One of the reasons we have such a highly regarded court system is because of the support from commissioners like Bob. I hope all District 3 voters will help to re-elect Bob Houtman this August. James Fisher, Hastings 1351 N.Broadway (M-43) Hastings 269.945.9105 OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:30 - 5:30 HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, July 26 — So Many Books ... book club discusses Next Week Will Be Better by Jean Ruryk, 1 to 2 p.m.; Movie Memories goes fishing with “Million Dollar Mermaid,” 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, July 27 — preschool story time flies with the owls” 10:30 to 11 a.m. Monday, July 30 — Summer reading program, “Dream Big, Read,” continues. Tuesday, July 31 — toddler story time romps at a pajama party, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30; open chess club, 6 to 8; genealogy club, 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 1 — summer reading has a blast with Kevin Kammeraad and his Music and Puppets, 2 to 3 p.m.; library book club discusses Sunset Park by Paul Auster, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Call the library for more information about any of the above, 269-945-4263. �Page 14 — Thursday, July 26, 2012 — The Hastings Banner BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY State News Roundup by Gerald Stein NORTH N: Q J 10 9 8 6 M: A Q J 4 L: J 10 2 K: ---- WEST N: ---M: K 10 7 5 3 2 L: K 9 8 7 4 3 K: 5 EAST N: 2 M: 8 6 L: A Q 6 5 K: A J 9 7 3 2 SOUTH: N: A K 7 5 4 3 M: 9 L: ---K: K Q 10 8 6 4 Dealer: East Vulnerable: East/West Lead: 5K North 3K 5L Pass East 1K Dbl Dbl Pass South 1N 4NT 5N West 2M Pass Pass Captain M. North looked up from his monthly paperwork on the Barry County Bridge Barge. Coming up the gangplank, all out of breath, were Rosy and Vera, two of his experienced bridge players. He had not seen them for several weeks. He greeted them with a smile and a wave. “Vera and Rosy, have you been off on another trip up north again?” Vera and Rosy both shook their heads. “Oh, Captain North,” began Rosy, “we haven’t been back to the Upper Peninsula since our last adventure. We have been out to the 160th Barry County Fair.” Here they both had reached the tables and chairs all set for the weekly bridge and river cruise. Sitting down, they both looked at the Captain expectantly. “Yes…” said the Captain, taking his cue from their patient wait. “What happened at the Fair this year?” He knew that he was in for a story of some kind. “Well, Captain North, we had the best time on the rides this year,” said Vera. “We rode the Ferris wheel, and we rode the Tilt-aGirl.” “You mean the Tilt-a-Whirl, don’t you?” asked the Captain, with his eyes wide open. “Oh, Captain North, you know the ride that whirls around and around and pushes you into the corner?” Here Rosy and Vera burst into laughter. “We called it the Tilt-a-Girl to see if you could see how this hand of bridge pushed us into a corner.” The Captain sighed and looked at the two bridge players. He gave them a smile. They always seemed to have an angle to explain a special hand. He knew it was better to sit back and just enjoy their sharing of the hand. Vera began, “Captain North, you know that we have been reading the bridge column in the paper for the past several weeks even if we haven’t been here to play. We wanted to be winners at bridge, so we decided to try some of the offered techniques.” “Yes,” chimed in Rosy. “We wanted to concentrate, to compete, to make good bids, and to play the hand especially well.” “And we think we did just that,” said Vera. “We were North and South, and our opponent East opened the bidding with 1K.” “I overcalled 1N with six good spades, a singleton heart, a void in diamonds, and six good clubs,” Rosy added, “What a nice looking hand.” The Captain nodded. “West offered a heart suit, showing six hearts, bidding the higher suit first, of course,” said Vera. “And I as North let Rosy, my partner, know that I had a strong support for her spades with a cue bid of 3K.” “Now here is where listening to the bidding is so important,” said Rosy. “When East doubled the cue bid, it was a lead-directing double, and West as her partner should have been listening. In fact, after we tried the Blackwood convention, and another double by East, on the 5L bid, there were two lead-directing doubles for West to use.” Here Vera chimed in again, “We stopped at 5N, and it was a good place to stop, once we realized that slam was not a possibility. Rosy made a good choice in bidding, and stopping at the right contract.” “In the play of the hand,” Rosy continued, “the lead was not a diamond or a club! No, Captain North, can you believe it? We might have been pushed into a corner with a diamond or a club lead, but I did not know that my partner had no clubs, nor did she know I had no diamonds.” “Instead of a diamond or a club lead, West led her fourth best heart, suggesting that she had something of value in her hand. I figured it was the ©K because I could see the Ace, the Queen, and the Jack in my partner’s hand. It was an easy finesse, and it worked.” “From then on, it was easy work to take all 13 tricks and a good game bid, played, and won.” “So you see, Captain North, we might have been pushed into a corner, but we had the right cards, the right concentration, the right bidding, and we won at bridge.” Captain North stood up from his chair. “Congratulations, Vera and Rosy. You had a great ride at the fair, and you had a great ride at the bridge table.” He started to walk away, but then he turned and asked, “Is it true that East-West could have made 5L if they had continued bidding?” “Of course,” answered Vera and Rosy in unison. “But we know that spades are a higher ranking suit than diamonds, and we know the saying, ‘When in doubt, bid one more!’ Captain North, you should get out more often. Go to the fair and ride the Tilt-a-Girl! You will have a wonderful time.” They both broke into laughter as the Captain walked back to his paperwork. ***** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) Governor declares energy emergency in U.P. Gov. Rick Snyder Tuesday declared a state of energy emergency in Michigan, due to the limited availability and temporary shortages of gasoline and diesel fuel in areas of the Upper Peninsula caused by a shutdown of the West Shore Pipeline in Wisconsin. The West Shore Pipeline, located between Milwaukee and Green Bay, supplies gasoline and diesel fuel to service stations throughout the western and central sections of the Upper Peninsula. As a result of the pipeline closure, the transportation of petroleum products within Michigan has been affected since carriers must seek alternate product terminals in Milwaukee and Madison, resulting in longer driving distances and difficulty meeting demands in concert with state and federal hours-of-service regulations. “This energy emergency declaration is necessary to ensure that petroleum supplies will remain sufficient and to assure the health, safety and welfare of Michigan residents and visitors,” Snyder said. The executive order suspends state and federal regulations relating to hours-of-service for motor carriers and drivers transporting gasoline, diesel fuel and jet fuel to address transportation needs arising from the impact of this energy emergency. The executive order will remain in effect until it is rescinded or until Aug. 7 at 11:59 p.m., whichever first occurs. MDOT projects in Bay, Huron counties recognized for innovation and value The Michigan Department of Transportation has been recognized at the regional level in two categories of the 2012 America’s Transportation Awards competition. The competition is sponsored by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, the American Automobile Association, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. The I-75 Linwood to Pinconning project in Bay County was announced as the winner in the “Ahead of Schedule, Medium Project” category, while the M-25 bridge replacement project over the White River in Huron County was named as the winner in the “Under Budget, Small Project” category. Project details are available online at www.AmericasTransportationAward.org. In Bay County, the $29 million project was originally scheduled to take two years to complete. Instead, MDOT finished repairing and reconstructing 32 lane miles of I-75 in less than one year. During construction, MDOT was innovative in the use of an accelerated construction schedule, which was the key component to the success of this project. To expedite construction and improve traffic flow to and from northern Michigan, a moveable barrier wall was placed between northbound and southbound lanes. This “zipper wall” was moved twice per week to keep two lanes of heavy traffic open in one direction (northbound on Fridays and Saturdays, southbound on Sundays). Using accelerated bridge construction and emerging technology on the $1.5 million Huron County project, MDOT finished building the new M-25 bridge over the White River three weeks ahead of schedule and more than 4 percent under budget. Extreme heat and drought causing fish kills Numerous fish kills have been reported from around the state, and staff from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources’ Fisheries Division is tracking and monitoring these events. “We appreciate the public letting us know where they are seeing unusual fish kill events,” said Fisheries Division Chief Jim Dexter. “This can be done by emailing reports to DNR-fish-report-fishkills@michigan.gov.” The combination of high water temperatures and drought flow conditions have made conditions stressful for fish, and, in many cases, these conditions are beyond lethal temperatures for fish. Additionally, high water temperatures often result in low oxygen values, particularly in water bodies with a lot of vegetation. “For example, water temperatures of nearly 90 degrees Fahrenheit were recorded in the lower Shiawassee River last week, which resulted in a small kill of northern pike [since] temperatures were beyond their physiological ability to handle these conditions,” said Gary Whelan, DNR fish production manager. “We expect to see more of these fish kills until there are major changes in this summer’s weather.” The overall fisheries effects of such events are often local in nature and may not significantly change overall population numbers. However, population level effects are not known at this time and will take some time to fully evaluate. “We recommend anglers be extra careful in handling and unhooking fish that are to be released to keep stress to a minimum. It is also best for our fish if anglers refrain from fishing during the hottest parts of the day and not keep fish to be released in live wells for very long,” continued Whelan. “Fishing in the early morning period is least stressful for fish, as it has the coolest water temperatures.” For more information on fish kills in Michigan, visit www.michigan.gov/fishing. Anyone who suspects a fish kill is caused by non-natural causes is asked to call the nearest DNR office or Michigan’s Pollution Emergency Alert System at 800-292-4706. USDA designates southern counties as natural disaster areas Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Director Jamie Clover Adams Wednesday applauded the quick action by U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack in designating four counties in Southwest Michigan as primary natural disaster areas due to the extreme Reporting History for the Future in 6 Barry County Area Newspapers • Lakewood News • Maple Valley News • Middleville-Caledonia Sun & News • Reminder • Hastings Banner Over 64,000 Papers Distributed Every Week! 1351 N. M-43 Highway • P.O. Box 188 Hastings, MI 49058 Phone (269) 945-9554 • Fax (269) 945-5192 U.S. Marine plays role in drug raid in Afghanistan U.S. Marine Dylan Pennington (second from right) is presented with a proclamation by City Councilman Bill Redman (second from left) at the UAW Hall 138 in Hastings. He is joined by his mother Jodi Denny and Major Denny. Redman read a proclamation from the City of Hastings honoring Pennington for his special service during a major drug raid in Afghanistan. The raid denied the Taliban of $2.3 million in support for terrorist activities. Lance Corp. Pennington joined the Marines after graduating from Hastings in 2010. His Marine Cat 2-2 squad provided protection of other Marine squads during their mission to disrupt the sale of drugs. Pennington will soon head back to Camp Lejeune in North Carolina. drought conditions facing farmers in Branch, Cass, Hillsdale and St. Joseph counties. Additionally, under the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act, six counties were named as contiguous natural disaster areas — Berrien, Calhoun, Jackson, Kalamazoo, Lenawee and Van Buren. “Our farmers and producers are facing unprecedented extreme weather conditions this year including frost/freeze that devastated many fruit crops to the drought conditions wreaking havoc on our corn and soybeans producers,” said Clover Adams. “This disaster designation is essential to keep our farmers in business and ensuring they have ready access to the resources they need to keep feeding Michiganders and the world.” The counties designated by USDA as natural disaster areas this week means that qualified farm operators are eligible for low interest emergency loans from USDA’s Farm Service Agency, provided eligibility requirements are met. In order for Michigan to receive federal disaster status, the original crop loss estimates must be verified from harvest yield data. If losses of 30 percent or more are confirmed, and the disaster request is granted, eligible state producers will have access to USDAFSA’s low-interest emergency loan program for up to 100 percent of their weather-related agriculture production losses. USDA-FSA is the agency responsible for compiling the official crop loss statistics and administering the federal emergency farm loan programs. For more information on the federal emergency farm loan programs, please visit the USDA-FSA website, www.fsa.usda.gov. Public supports programs helping farmers adapt to climate change A survey conducted by Michigan State University reveals strong public support for government programs to help farmers adapt to climate change. According to NASA research, global temperatures have been rising for decades, and this rise is affecting all aspects of agriculture. Regardless of what those surveyed believe causes climate change, more than 65 percent of them support government assistance for farmers, said Scott Loveridge, MSU professor of agricultural, food and resource economics. This year has been a particularly harsh example. This summer’s drought is wreaking havoc on much of the nation’s row crops, and close to one-third of states’ counties have been declared natural disaster areas and are seeking federal aid. In Michigan, record-setting temperatures in March prompted fruit trees to blossom. Freezing weather in April wiped out nearly all of the state’s fruit crops. Farmers are feeling the impact now, and consumers are already seeing increased food prices, which are projected to get worse, said Loveridge. Empathy doesn’t automatically translate to support for financial assistance. So Loveridge was surprised how many people support the notion of financial assistance for farmers. “I didn’t expect the strong level of public support for helping farmers adjust their production techniques to long-term changes in the climate,” he said. “The overall support is likely strongly linked to concerns about recent food price fluctuations, long-term food security or recognition of agriculture’s contributions to the economy.” Aid for farmers can come in a number of forms. Some examples include addressing potential threats and opportunities related to climate change, securing more support for science-based crop projections and finding and testing varieties and techniques that will perform well in the future, Loveridge added. The research, based on 963 randomly selected Michigan residents, was conducted by the Institute for Public Policy and Social Research’s Office for Survey Research at MSU. The report is available online, http://news.msu.edu/media/documents/2012/07/0b409662-5f3c-4caa-9876d81c46c27878.pdf. Need wedding invitations? Check out the large selection at Printing Plus 1351 N. M-43 Hwy., Hastings just north of city limits �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, July 26, 2012 — Page 15 Council hears report on medicine County commissioners take-back program drop boxes get rough road report by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Barry County residents no longer have to wait for the spring and fall hazardous material collections to get rid of expired or unused prescription medications, including controlled substances. The Barry County Substance Abuse Task Force is sponsoring drop boxes for unwanted prescriptions in pharmacies around the county and in three law enforcement locations. In his monthly report to the council Monday evening, Hastings City Police Chief Jerry Sarver said the task force is providing the city with the metal drop box along with a digital video recorder and a colored camera in exchange for hosting the box. Sarver, a member of the task force, said the goal of the program is to collect unwanted and expired drugs to keep them off the streets and out of landfills and eventually the ground water, rivers and lakes. To preserve confidentiality, anyone disposing of unwanted medications is asked to black out names and other personal information on the prescription labels before depositing the drugs in the box. “We don’t need to know where the drugs came from,” said Sarver, who added that the drop boxes are not for “sharps” (needles and scalpels) or radioactive substances, and all drugs will be locked away until they are transported to an incinerator. In addition to the Hastings City Police Department, 201 E. State S., Hastings, other Barry County law enforcement medicine take-back drop boxes are located at the Barry County Sheriff’s Department, 212 W. State St., Hastings, and Barry County Sheriff’s Department Middleville Unit, 100 E. Main St., Middleville. Medicine drop box also will be available in the following pharmacies across the county: Bosley Pharmacy, Hastings; Delton Family Pharmacy, Delton; Family Fare Pharmacy, Hastings; Maple Valley Pharmacy, Nashville; Pennock Pharmacy, Hastings; Pharmacy Care, Middleville; and, Weick’s Pharmacy, Gun Lake. For more information about Barry County Substance Abuse Task Force and the medicine take-back program, a list of common controlled substances and more, log on to barrycountysatf.com/disposal. In other business, the council: • Approved a request from Joanne Barnard on behalf of the Thornapple River Watershed Council to use the small pavilion near the boat launch during a river bank cleanup along the Thornapple River and Riverwalk Trail in Hastings, from 9:30 a.m. to noon, Thursday, Sept. 13, and to use the large pavilion, and place a large Dumpster in the south parking lot of Tyden Park from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 15, during the organization’s annual river cleanup. • Approved a resolution recognizing Pierce Cedar Creek Institute as a nonprofit organization operating in the community, as requested by Pierce Cedar Creek executive director Michelle Skedgell, to allow the facility to obtain a gaming license for an upcoming fundraiser. • Renewed the lease agreement for the Hastings City Police Chief Jerry Sarver stands next to the drop box for expired, unused or unwanted medication on the second floor of Hastings City Hall outside the Hastings City Police Department service window. The waist-high box is bolted to metal reinforcement in the wall and will soon have an official sticker detailing its purpose and what drugs are and are not allowed. rental of the residence at Fish Hatchery Park, located at 1013 W. Green St. The details of the agreement are the same as in years past, except for a 3 percent increase in the rental fee. • Reviewed and approved the annual engagement letter from Rehmann Robson for the city’s 2011-12 audit. • Awarded a bid for the 2012-13 fiscal year’s concrete curb, gutter and sidewalk replacement project to Slagel Construction of Hastings. The bid, not to exceed $23,080, includes the removal of existing concrete sidewalks, replacing it with new, and restoration work including topsoil and seed, the city will remove curbs and gutters, which will be replaced by the contractor. The city will be responsible for restoration of the roadway, including asphalt paving. Payment will be based on the in-place field measured quantities at the following unit prices: $4.50 per square foot of four-inch concrete, $5.10 per PUBLIC NOTICE square foot of six-inch concrete, and $14.50 per linear foot for curb and gutter. • Awarded a bid for hand patching and placement of top and base courses of bituminous asphalt paving, for the 2012-13 fiscal year to Reliable Asphalt of Kalamazoo for an estimated total cost of $28,080 based on $90 per ton for top course and $90 per ton for base course. The actual cost will be based on the unit prices and field measured in place quantities. • Awarded a bid for the 2012-13 tree removal and tree trimming program to Hometown Tree Service of Hastings in an amount not to exceed $15,500 based on the $200 per removal and $75 each for trimming. • Awarded a bid for street line painting during the 2012-13 fiscal year to P.K. Contracting of Lake City for an estimated amount of $20,735. • Scheduled a workshop beginning at 5:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 13, to hear a presentation from attorney Richard Butler regarding the agreements with Rutland Charter Township to allow the city to provide municipal services to the township. All Barry County Townships APPLICATIONS FOR DEFERMENT OF SUMMER 2012 TAXES Application Deadline: Sept. 14, 2012 by Doug VanderLaan Editor For a director providing his department’s annual evaluation, Barry County Road Commission Managing Director Brad Lamberg may have sounded a bit uncharacteristic during Tuesday’s county board of commissioners meeting. “It’s truly not as rosy as that,” said Lamberg of a balance sheet showing revenues exceeding expenditures by more than $700,000 for the 2011 fiscal year. “It’s primarily due to the timing of when revenues are received and spent. You really need to look at a lot of years together to really get a comparison look.” That look quickly became a sobering one for commissioners, given that current and projected needed road repairs through 2013 will exceed the road commission budget by more than $10 million. County paved roads have fallen on the standard 10-point Pavement Surface Evaluation and Rating system from a 7.4 average to a current 6.3. Both numbers fall within the system’s Fair category [5 to 7]. “We are sinking,” said Lamberg, “we just haven’t capsized like many else have in the state.” The concern, Lamberg told commissioners, is that costs for road materials have soared because they are primarily crude-oil based and that state leadership is reluctant to raise the gas tax. The $10 million shortfall projected for 2013 between road repairs that are needed and the funding to make them was exactly half the amount only seven years ago, he said. The gas tax has increased only four cents in the past 20 years. “We’re trying to educate the public and the legislators on the high cost of infrastructure,” maintained Lamberg. “We’ve heard politicians say ‘We have to wait for better times’ for the past five to six years. We were behind by $2.5 million at that time. Now we’re $10 million behind.” Lamberg called the attention of commissioners to the annual report which showed that the current state gas tax is 19 cents per gallon and, assuming motorists average 19 driving miles per gallon, the gas tax provides one cent per mile of Michigan road use. A citizen who drives 30,000 miles per year and gets 19 miles per gallon would pay, Lamberg pointed out, $300 annually in state gas tax for the use of Michigan roads. “Compare that to what people pay for garbage service or satellite dish television,” suggested Lamberg, “and you find that what they pay to use our roads is small — and this is a service that is available 24/7, 365 days per year.” Lamberg’s most direct words came as part of his closing annual report comments. “The dirty little secret that our legislators choose to completely disregard is that their inactivity on road funding (four cents per gallon state tax increase in 27 years) will cause the future cost of repairs to be drastically higher than they are currently. Instead of per- forming optimally timed cost-effective repairs, this neglect will cause many more roads to fall into the categories of rehabilitation and reconstruction which are often 300 percent to 500 percent more expensive.” The county board’s reaction to the report was led by Vice Chair Ben Geiger who noted the effort being made by the Barry County Road Commission under obvious duress. “Looking at the graph on Barry County roads, the counties immediately surrounding us have such a high percentage of poor roads, and we’ve got the smallest bar on that graph,” noted Geiger. “I think we just need to give a shout-out to our road commission.” “I worked closely with our road commission on the Crane Road project and all the hoops they had to jump through,” added Commissioner Dan Parker. “The patience they had to do that wouldn’t have gotten us through. I appreciated that.” In other business, the commission: • Approved a $1,647 annual increase in the county’s contribution toward the salary of the district court judge to align it with the compensation provided the probate and circuit court judges under the Barry County Unified Trial Court arrangement. • Approved the purchase of 16 X2 Tasers, 30 holsters, 200 training cartridges, and 100 duty cartridges for road patrol officers at a total cost of $26,282 to be paid from the diverted felons fund. • Approved a new management structure for the Barry County Animal Control Department which separates enforcement and animal shelter functions. One existing fulltime Animal Control officer position and one existing full-time clerical position will be retained under the management and control of the Barry County Sheriff, and one new fulltime animal shelter director position will be filled and will exist under the general supervision of the county administrator. • Approved an intergovernmental agreement between Barry and Eaton counties to provide Level IV equalization services. Funds currently available for employment of a Level III director will be redirected to the contractual arrangement with Eaton County. The next meeting of the board of commissioners will be its committee of the whole meeting Tuesday, Aug. 7, in chamber headquarters at the county courthouse beginning at 9 a.m. Keep your friends and relatives informed! Send them The BANNER To subscribe, call us at... 269-945-9554 77569554 All township treasurers in Barry County are currently accepting applications for summer 2012 tax deferments (deferments are not exemptions). To qualify, a household annual income cannot exceed $40,000. The applicant(s) must also be: 77569551 1) 62 years of age or older, including the unmarried surviving spouse of a person who was 62 years of age or older at the time of death, 3) an eligible serviceperson, eligible veteran or their eligible widow or widower 4) a blind person, or 77569557 2) paraplegic or quadriplegic, 5) a totally and permanently disabled person. 77569693 ASSYRIA TOWNSHIP Beth Miller, Treasurer (269) 758-3334 BALTIMORE TOWNSHIP Jennifer McKeever, Treasurer (269) 721-4021 BARRY TOWNSHIP Judith Wooer,Treasurer (269) 623-5171 CARLTON TOWNSHIP Marlene Forman, Treasurer (269) 945-5990 CASTLETON TOWNSHIP Dorothy Semrau, Treasurer (517) 852-9479 HASTINGS CHARTER TWP Jenee Phillips, Treasurer (269) 948-9690 HOPE TOWNSHIP Arlene Tonkin, Treasurer (269) 948-2464 IRVING TOWNSHIP Lynnette Wingeier, Treasurer (269) 948-2567 JOHNSTOWN TOWNSHIP Karmen Nickerson, Treasurer (269) 721-3611 MAPLE GROVE TWP Ginger Cole, Treasurer (517) 852-1844 ORANGEVILLE TWP Vicki Ritchie, Treasurer (269) 664-5357 PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP Kasandra McGuire, Treasurer (269) 623-2664 RUTLAND TOWNSHIP Sandra Greenfield, Treasurer (269) 948-2194 THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP Debra Buckowing, Treasurer (269) 795-7202 WOODLAND TOWNSHIP Nancy Potter, Treasurer (269) 374-7240 YANKEE SPRINGS TWP John Jerkatis, Treasurer (269) 795-9091 CITY OF HASTINGS Francie Brummel, Treasurer (269) 945-2468 77569560 Those that farm agricultural real property may also qualify if the gross receipts of the farming operation are not less than the household income of the owner. Additional information and deferment applications may be obtained from the following treasurers: 77569563 �Page 16 — Thursday, July 26, 2012 — The Hastings Banner MHSAA provides concussion education Already administering a strong set of protocols addressing the removal and return to play of young athletes suspected of sustaining concussions in competition, the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) is further ramping up its concussion education efforts of coaches, student-athletes and parents as the 2012-13 school year approaches. COURT NEWS Jacob William Pallett, 28, of Plainwell was sentenced July 19 for home invasion, first degree. Pallett was ordered to serve 12 months in jail, with credit for 110 days served. He must pay $198 in court assessments and serve 36 months on probation. Pallett must pay $150 per month toward court assessments and submit to drug testing. A second charge of home invasion, first degree, and charges of assault or assault and battery and malicious destruction of a building less than $200 were dropped. Vern Ellis Wilder, 62, of Hastings was sentenced for larceny of a building. Wilder was ordered July 19 to serve 30 days in jail, with credit for one day served. He must pay $21,794 in costs and restitution. He will serve 60 months of probation. The balance of his jail time will be suspended upon successful completion of probation. Wilder was ordered to pay $300 per month on costs and restitution. Charges of embezzlement of $1,000 to $20,000 and a second charge of larceny in a building were dropped. James Everett Gross, 44, was sentenced July 19 for criminal sexual conduct, second degree, multiple variables, and criminal sexual conduct, second degree, with person under 13 years of age. Gross, of Middleville, was ordered to serve 48 to 180 months in prison, with credit for 86 days served. He must pay $698 in court assessments. Charges of criminal sexual conduct, second degree, multiple variables, and criminal sexual conduct, second degree, with person under 13 years of age were dropped. Darrel Lee Struble Jr., 46, of Nashville was sentenced for operating under the influence of liquor, third offense. Struble was ordered July 19 to serve 10 months in jail, with credit for two days served. He must pay $1,698 in court assessments and serve 36 months on probation. Struble must successfully complete drug court and six months of jail will be suspended upon successful completion of probation terms. He must pay $125 a month toward court assessments and was granted a work release. Charges of operating with license suspended, revoked or denied, second or subsequent offense, and habitual offender, fourth notice, were dropped. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 For Sale Automotive Real Estate 4 TIRES: 10.5X31”, like new, RICK TAYLOR’S DETAIL B. F. Goodrich A.T. $500. WORKS. The only professional detail service. Call (269)623-3271. (269)948-0958. AFFORDABLE PROPANE USED BATTERY SALE! FOR your home/farm/busi90 day warranty $20 exness. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond change plus tax. Used vehicles for sale. Go to: Propane 269-367-9700 gogoautoparts.com DON’T PAY HIGH heating GoGo Auto Parts bills. Eliminate them with an 7700 Kingsbury Rd. Delton Outdoor Wood Furnace (269)623-2775 from Central Boiler. D-2 Outdoor Wood Boilers. National Ads (616)877-4081. THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT KNOWINGLY SAFE WOOD HEAT- Central Boiler Classic Outdoor accept advertising which is fraudulent or Wood Furnace. Great Sum- deceptive, mer Sale! Call SOS your might otherwise violate law “Stocking Dealer” Dutton, or accepted standards of MI (616)554-8669 (616)915- taste. However, this publication does not warrant or 5061. guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the Estate Sale quality of goods or services ESTATE/MOVING SALES: advertised. Readers are cauby Bethel Timmer - The Cot- tioned to thoroughly investitage House Antiques. gate all claims made in any (269)795-8717 or (616)901- advertisements, and to use 9898. good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when Lawn & Garden dealing with persons unAQUATIC PLANTS: OUR known to you ask for money Lotus & Water Lilies are in advance of delivery of ready! Also Koi & Goldfish, goods or services advertised. ACREAGE: 70 ACRES rolling, wooded and beautiful. Great location to build custom home or cabin. Great price $280,000. Call Bill Sikkema 269-488-0576, Prudential Preferred, Realtors. pumps, filters & pond supplies. APOLS WATER GARDENS, 9340 Kalamazoo, Caledonia MI. (616)6981030 M-F 9:00-5:30, Sat 9:002:00. DRIVERS: REGIONAL & OTR. .38cpm Regional, .35cpm OTR. Avg. 20002200mi/week. .01cpm Safety Bonus & .02cpm CSA Bonus. Weekly Pay. Home 2wknds/mo. Jaime/Eric 563-579-3421 or 888-9127342. BOOKKEEPING SERVICES Personal * Self-Employed * Small Business Payroll * Billing Accounts Receivable * Accounts Payable General Ledger Weekly * Monthly * Quarterly * Annually Call today! (269)420-5714 3 BEDROOM 2 bath home. fully furnished. No pets, no smoking. Delton Schools on Wall Lake, September thru June. $875 per month plus ROY HALL’S AUTO & utilities. (517)749-1851 BOATDETAILING: 25 FOR RENT: NICE 2BD years serving Barry County, apartment in Vermontville. (269)948-8377. Appliances included, handicap accessible, (517)726-0324. Pets OFFICE SPACE for rent, 750 sq.ft. at 207 E. Mill Street. Private parking. (269)9488463. 2-1/2 YEAR OLD female Bull Dog/Lab mix, spayed, black with a little white. Very sweet dog, good around children and other dogs. Moved can’t take her with us. Call (269)953-2395. Help Wanted 25 DRIVER TRAINEES Needed NOW! Become a driver for Schneider National! Earn $750 per week! No experience needed! Local CDL Training! Job ready in 15 days! 1-877-649-2697. DRIVERS: Dedicated Home Daily! Sign-on Bonus- $1000! Great Miles, Money, More! CDL-A. 1yr OTR. MTS: 800748-0192 x208/x214 DRIVERS: REGIONAL & OTR. .38cpm Regional, .35cpm OTR. Avg. 20002200mi/week. .01cpm Safety Bonus & .02cpm CSA Bonus. Weekly Pay. Home 2wknds/mo. Jaime/Eric 563-579-3421 or 888-9127342. Recreation WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are interested in leasing acreage for this years deer season. Call (269)795-3049 Garage Sale PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. SALE-N-BARN 2222 E. State Road, Hastings. Friday-Saturday, July 27th-28th, 9am5pm. Immediate Openings RN/LPN PRIVATE DUTY Nashville, Marshall, Springport, Jackson Trach / Vent Experience Preferred 77569704 For Rent Business Services BARLOW LAKE: low maintenance 1,472 sq. ft. custom built 11 year old home with 90 foot sandy waterfront. 25 minutes from Grand Rapids at 971 Palmer Drive, Yankee Springs Township. Just south of YMCA camp. Natural gas, sprinkler system, generator. Price reduced. Call Fonda at (616)974-4124. FT/PT Days/Nights Please send resume to: recruiter@optimalstaffing.com 77564784 or fax to: 517-394-7716 In partnership with the University of Michigan’s NeuroSport and the Pediatric Trauma Program at C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital, required online rules meetings for coaches and officials will include an education component illustrating the serious nature of concussions; recognition of the signs and symptoms; a review of return to play protocols; applicable MHSAA regulations; and downloadable co-branded resources from NeuroSport, as well as materials produced by a joint effort of the Brian Injury Association of Michigan, the Detroit Lions, the Center for Disease Control and the MHSAA. This is the second year the MHSAA has included concussion education in its online rules meetings, which are annually viewed by nearly 20,000 coaches and game officials. This year, the Michigan NeuroSport Concussion Education - High School Coach edition, endorsed by the American Academy of Neurology last fall, has been modified for the MHSAA audience. The MHSAA will also promote the availability of the NeuroSport concussion education modules offered specifically for parents and coaches. “These educational efforts, coupled with protocols addressing concussions when they take place on the field of play, put our schools in the best possible position to minimize the risk to young people,” said John E. “Jack” Roberts, executive director of the MHSAA. “We’re pleased to have our new partnership with University of Michigan NeuroSport and our ongoing partnership with the Brian Injury Association of Michigan which put our state at the forefront of addressing the critical health issue for interscholastic athletes.” Roberts added that the same educational materials the Association has co-branded with its partners will also be used to help raise concussion awareness in other youth sports by other sponsors in the state. “We are proud to partner with MHSAA and bring the most up-to-date concussion education to those on the frontline of athletics. Education is a vital component to improving player safety,” says Amy Teddy, injury prevention program manager at C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital. “We believe that ‘It takes a team to keep concussions on the sidelines.’ Parents, coaches, teammates, officials and athletic trainers all have a role in protecting athletes from serious injury. “In addition to our coach modules, we recently launched our parent edition to help another member of the ‘team’ better recognize and understand concussion.” added Teddy, who also is director of education for Michigan Neurosport. The NeuroSport online programs for parents, high school coaches and youth sports coaches is now available at http://www.MichiganNeuroSport.com. An online program for athletes will be available soon. Three vehicles collide on M-37 The Barry County Sheriff’s Department investigated a three-vehicle traffic crash Saturday, July 21, at M-37 and 108th Street in Thornapple Township. A driver of a 2004 Ford Taurus traveling north collided with the rear of 2003 Chevy pickup. The Taurus then entered the southbound lane and collided head-on with 1999 GMC Jimmy heading south on M-37. Thornapple Township firefighters extinguished the resulting vehicle fire. Three of the four occupants were transported to area hospitals for treatment. This incident remains under investigation and names are being withheld. Cars crash at tri-county intersection Deputies from the Barry County Sheriff's Department investigated a two-car personal injury accident at the intersection of Patterson Road and 108th Street Monday, July 23, shortly before 6 p.m. Investigation shows that the eastbound vehicle, operated by a 16-year-old Middleville female, failed to yield the right of way to the southbound vehicle, driven by a 21-year-old Wyoming man. One driver was transported by ambulance to Metro Hospital in Grand Rapids, while the other was transported by Aero Med to Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids. The extent of injuries was unknown at press time. A passenger was released from the scene without injuries. Also responding to the accident were the Kent County Sheriff's Department, Thornapple Township Emergency Services and Caledonia Fire Department. POLICE BEAT Driver flips over trip to Nashville Michigan State Police responded to a rollover crash on Main Street in Nashville July 22. Troopers arrived to find a purple Ford Probe on its roof and the driver not injured but refusing to get out of the vehicle for EMS. The trooper was able to get the 19-year-old Mt. Pleasant driver out of the vehicle, but he was not speaking well. The driver reportedly did not appear to be under the influence of alcohol but seemed to be affected by an unknown drug. After further investigation, he was arrested for operating while impaired by drugs and was transported to the hospital for a blood test. While there, he said he ingested psilocybin mushrooms. He was later lodged at the Barry County Jail. Ex-husband tries to grab baby punched him in the back of his neck before he could reach the car. The homeowner said it was the young tenant who tried to pick the fight. The tenant moved to another friend’s house and did not want to press charges. The report has been forwarded to the prosecutor’s office. Resident reports missing the wire A man walked into the Barry County Sheriff’s Department July 10 to report his mother’s cottage and storage sheds on Gerke Drive in Nashville had been entered without permission. He told deputies copper wire had been taken from a storage shed, but found nothing else missing. The man noted the wire was worth about $150. The case is inactive. Jail costs more than cheap wallet A woman called 911 July 9 to report an assault by 30-year-old husband. She told deputies her estranged husband had shoved her several times, tried to take their baby and then left the Bellevue residence. She thought he was going to his sister’s house in Battle Creek. The woman said she wanted to press charges. Battle Creek police made contact with the man, but he was not arrested. A warrant request has been forwarded to the Barry County prosecutor’s office. Barry County Deputies were dispatched to the Hastings Walmart July 17 in reference to a shoplifting incident. The 19-year-old Hastings suspect was watched on surveillance as he took a $12 wallet off a shelf and put the object in his pocket. As he was walking out of the store, he switched the wallet to another pocket and walked past the cashier. Deputies spoke with the suspect whose grandfather was waiting in the parking lot to give him a ride home. The suspect was arrested, but did not tell his grandfather and was taken directly to jail. Teen loses tooth over chores Hastings gets tagged on the weekend Hastings City Police were dispatched July 21 to a reported domestic assault at a home on East Bond Street. Reportedly, a mother and daughter had been “going at each other” following an argument. Witnesses at the scene told officers the mother had assigned chores, and some of the work was being ignored. The 50-year-old mother and her 16-year-old daughter had gotten into a loud argument. At some point a name was called and the argument became physical. The daughter, who had left the scene prior to police arrival, was located a short distance away and returned to the scene. Neither combatant was fully cooperative. The daughter had a tooth knocked out. Alcohol is believed to be a factor in the incident. The report was forwarded to the prosecutor’s office for review. Hastings officers responded to three complaints of “tagging” July 16. A Hastings business on East State Street reported someone had spray-painted graffiti on the rear of the building over the weekend. Similar graffiti was reported at the skate park and again at Tyden Park. All three graffiti tags are similar in appearance. Police believe the same individual is responsible for the damage. Anyone with information is asked to call Silent Observer or Hastings Police. Child had enough of tubing Hastings Police, responding to a 911 call from Tyden Park Saturday, July 21, met with a woman who said she had seen a young child tubing down the river yelling for someone to call 911 because he was cold and hungry. The caller said the woman with the child appeared to be intoxicated. Officers located the woman and child still floating in the river at Tyden Park. When attempting to gain the attention of the two, the woman did not respond, but the child said he was cold and hungry. The woman yelled profanities at the officers, who asked her to refrain from such language due to children being in the area. They asked if she was okay or needed medical attention. She again yelled at officers and added obscene gestures. The child began to cry. One officer waded into the water to reach the two, but the woman pushed farther into the river. Officers said three tubes were lashed together with plastic grocery bags. One tube held the woman, the second held the child, and the third tube held a cooler. A second officer went down river to intercept the two. The woman continued to yell vulgar insults toward the child for several minutes before passing out in her tube, officers reported. The child also appeared to go to sleep at this time. After gaining assistance from the nearby canoe rental livery, the two were pulled to shore, and the child was checked by EMS. The woman, who remained passed out the entire time that EMS was checking the child, was finally awakened after several attempts. She again began to yell obscenities. The 28year-old Grand Rapids woman ignored orders to stop yelling. She was arrested and her 6year-old son was turned over to Department of Human Services staff who eventually located a grandmother to take him. The mother continued to cause problems at the jail, according to the police report. Tenant ousted for taking food Deputies were dispatched July 15 for a reported assault on Rolling Oaks Lane in Middleville. The caller said he had just moved from Florida to Michigan and had been living with friends for about a week. Part of the agreement for living in the house was purchasing his own food. When he went to the beach for the day, he took food from the house and not all it was his. After discovering food was missing, the homeowner got upset and told the man to leave the house that evening. The man told deputies that while packing his belongings the homeowner “got in his face,” so he started to walk away. He told deputies the man then Music lovers pick the roller rink Deputies were called to the Hastings RollA-Rama July 21 in reference to a larceny complaint. A man told deputies his iPod had been stolen, but there were no suspects at the time. He said he had placed his iPod in the DJ booth at the rink, and when he returned, it was missing. He told deputies there were five subjects at the Roll-A-Rama he did not know and thought maybe one of them had taken his silver 8 GB iPod, with a Gears of War sticker on the back, valued at $250. He provided deputies with the suspect’s vehicle plate number. The case remains open. Bicycle ends up in chop shop Deputies were called June 24 to a Thornapple Lake Road apartment for alleged theft of a bicycle. The caller said his bicycle had been taken from near the basketball courts. When he found the bike, it had been disassembled. Deputies have several suspects in the case. Pair drops charges after being attacked Deputies reported to a Shelbyville residence June 24 for a reported assault. Two men said they had been attacked by three men. The complainant said he was driving home with his wife when he noticed a man yelling at him and making obscene gestures. The man said that when he pulled into his driveway, two vehicles pulled up and three men and a woman got out, starting walking toward him and yelling. He told deputies at that point he pulled a pipe wrench from his truck and started backing away toward his house. A friend then came out of his house. One of the men punched his friend several times, then started back toward the resident, grabbed him by the throat and began punching him in the face. The man said he struck back and knocked his assailant down. He then headed toward the house, but when he reached his door, the man charged him with a stick, trying to hit him. The homeowner picked up a rake and hit his attacker on the shoulder. One of the attackers went back into the driveway and knocked over his friend’s motorcycle. The landlord arrived and told the assailants to leave, so they drove away. Later in the day, deputies received another call saying one of the attackers was driving past the complainant’s house. The main attacker was interviewed by deputies. He told them the complainant had hit him in the head with a pipe wrench and pulled a gun on him. He also told deputies he fell over the motorcycle and did not push it over. The report has been turned over to the prosecutor’s office. Both victims told deputies July 17 they no longer wished to pursue charges. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, July 26, 2012 — Page 17 Moody gets his first Super Stock win of season Seth Moody and the Moody Racing team which also includes (from left) his grandfather Dave Moody, brother Joey Moody, father Alan Moody, Kyle Brooker, and RJ Bailey (not pictured) gather with the team’s three Chevrolet race cars in front of the family’s garage. Moody scored his first Engine Pro Super Stock victory of the season at Berlin Raceway in Marne Saturday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Seth Moody, an 18-year-old from Middleville, has taken the checkered flag twice in the Engine Pro Super Stock division at Berlin Raceway in Marne this season. Moody’s #48 car failed the post-race inspection after taking the checkered flag during the June 16 Feature, and it took just over a month for him to get back on top. He got to take the hardware home with him Saturday (July 21). He took the lead on lap 11 in the 30lap feature and never let it go. His points from Saturday moved him up to fourth place in the Engine Pro Super Stock standings, 62 points back of the leader. “We got that win finally, and I kind of feel like I got the monkey off my back,” Moody said. “Now I’ve got five races to go. If we have points nights like we did Saturday it’ll take me four weeks to take the points lead.” There was a lot to work to do in that month between checkered flags. His Chevy didn’t feel quite right even at the end of the June 16 race. The car would run well for eight to ten laps and then the set-up would need to get tweaked again. After a couple weeks his team, which also includes his father Alan Moody and grandfather Dave Moody, enlisted the help of the car’s previous owner, Chris Muyskens. “He was helping us wrench on the car nose to tail, and was coaching me through how the car feels what needs to be done,” Seth said. “Saturday he was wrenching on it and we were really good in the practices. We qualified third and could have gotten first it was tweaked just a little bit more. We were close. He was happy with that. I was happy with that. We went out in the heat race before the feature and again the car did a few laps and just fell right off and we were kind of like, ‘okay what’s wrong? Because something obviously is not right.’” The team finally found a suspension problem right before the Feature race, fixed it up, and sent him back out on the track. “There was no expectation going into the feature because we didn’t know if that would fix the problem,” Seth said. “We were like, we’ve tried everything else. This is the only thing that can be wrong. “Once we fixed it, the car came right to life and just drove right through everyone without any help of a caution. I got up to the front and had to deal with lapped traffic that was kind of scary. Made it up to the front and no one could catch me.” Seth beat runner-up Will Olmsted by just over two seconds, with a top lap time of 17.933 seconds and a top speed of just under 88 mph. Seth will be in action in his silver Chevrolet during the Engine Pro Super Stock race again this Saturday, and also will be competing in one of the team’s two other Chevrolets in the Coors Light Super Late Model competition this weekend. This is just Seth’s second full season racing at Berlin, but he’s won on every other level he’s ever tried. He started racing competitively when he was ten years old. “We found a go-cart in the newspaper that was for sale, it said it was a racing cart,” Alan said. “We went and looked at it. It was cheep. We bought it.” “I think he was tired of me tearing up the back yard with the quad,” said Seth. “From there we found Ravenna Motor Park, up by Coopersville, that was racing those go-carts and then he just started winning everything, so we got hooked into it,” Alan said. He was named the rookie of the year in 2004, after winning the championship and every feature event. He matched sweep of the features and the championship performance in 2005, then won the title again in 2006 while also taking the most feature wins. He then made the step up to the dirt track at Winston Speedway in Rothbury, where he was named rookie of the year once again, and won the most features of anyone in his class to take the championship. Also during the 2007 racing season he took his first turns on an asphalt track, at Kalamazoo Speedway. He was tenth in points in Kalamazoo in his class in 2008 and set the quick time in the Pro Stocks at the Call of the Wild event there. The following year he was fifth in the Pro Stocks in Kalamazoo and was named the division’s most improved driver. During that time Seth also took part in the Arena Racing events at the DeltaPlex in Grand Rapids, winning the Race of Area Champions. In 2010 he joined the ASA Late Models North series, and finished sixth overall in the division that toured the Midwest and second in rookie points. Alan guessed that the team had a budget of about $30,000 at the time, while the rookie ahead of him in the standings had a team budget of closer to $300,000. Moody Racing is currently sponsored by Lake Ann Camp and Printing Paradigms, but more and bigger sponsors will be needed for Seth to keep moving up in the sport with the ultimate goal of getting a spot in the Seth Moody in action in his #48 Chevrolet. NASCAR Spring Cup series. A spot in the ARCA series would be the next step up. ARCA, based out of Toledo, is a series where drivers race in retired Sprint Cup cars with smaller engines. Seth got a chance to try out one of the cars when he was invited to show off his skills at Hickory Motorspeedway in Hickory, NC. The track is known as the “Birthplace of the NASCAR stars.” “It was cool driving one,” Seth said. “These cars (at Berlin) weigh about 700 pounds less than the Cup cars do. These ones have that sports car kind of feel where you drive it wherever you want and you can go there. The heavier cars are a lot more technical on how you drive it because if you drive it too deep into the corner you’ll hit the wall. If you stay out too far you’ll hit the wall. You’ve got to do everything perfect. “I wasn’t up to race speed at all with it. They were trying to get consistent good laps in. I was just making sure I didn’t wreck the car, because they’ve never seen me drive before. It had a definite heavier feel to it, but they coached me real well in learning how to do it. I’ve tried to take that in with this car.” “If he had sponsorship, they offered him a ride in their ARCA car,” Alan said. “But, you’ve got to come up with sponsorship, advertising dollars, in order to do it. You’ve got to come to the table with money.” Teams have shown a lot of interest in adding him for the ARCA race Aug. 11 at Berlin Raceway. “They said Berlin is a really hard track and everybody hates it,” Alan said. “He’s got hundreds of laps of experience there now, or thousands of laps of experience. They really want him to run that.” For now the team will just continue on working to get him that chance. “Running in the Cup series, it’s definitely a goal. It keeps me going. My family also keeps me going,” Seth said. When he gets down because of a blown motor, a power steering blow up, or a rare (for him) wreck Seth said it’s his family that is able to keep him going. “They work hard every day, not even just on racing, but they work hard. It keeps me wanting to do it,” Seth said. The family doesn’t just include Alan, Dave and Seth’s ten-year-old brother Joey who now is racing go-carts in Ravenna, but it has expanded to their church family at the First Baptist Church in Middleville. Despite wind gusts, grass fire limited to five acres Bailey won a heat race at the event. For now, Seth will just keep aiming for the front off the pack at Berlin, passing cars with his used engine, working on keeping his reputation as one of the quickest guys through the center of a corner, and even having NASCAR guys chase him at Berlin like they did during much of the first half of this year’s Rowdy 251. Maple Valley planning alumni baseball game for Saturday Matt Woodman played four years of high school baseball at Maple Valley, then found his options to play ball a little limited. So now he’s trying to put together his own game. Maple Valley High School will host its first Alumni Baseball Game at the field in Vermontville Saturday, July 28. Game time is set for 11 a.m. All former Maple Valley High School baseball players, young and old, are invited to participate. There is a $30 fee to participate in what Woodman says will be a “slower paced baseball game.” “After I graduated I wanted to get back together with my old teammates and get back on the field to play,” Woodman said. “I presented the idea to Carp (varsity baseball coach Bryan Carpenter) about an alumni game, and he thought that we could use that idea to make a fundraiser for the current program, and we have both been putting it together.” The concession stand will be open at the field, and the entire community is invited to show up and watch the action. Bats and helmets will be provided, but organizers are asking that players bring their own baseball gloves, batting gloves, cleats, etc. Players can sign-up to play by visiting the Maple Valley Baseball Alumni page on Facebook, by contacting coach Carpenter at (517) 726-1391, or late registration can be done by just showing up at the field ready to play on game day. Call 269-945-9554 anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads S A LT S A L E FRIDAY, JULY 27TH • 8 AM-5 PM SATURDAY, JULY 28TH • 9 AM-12 NOON SALT Cash & Carry 50-lb. Cube $ 49 SALT ........ Infant dies while sleeping on sofa 40-lb Rustbuster $ 54 Cube ....... 5 Firefighters finish putting out a grass fire in Thornapple Township. (Photo courtesy of Lani Forbes) Fire broke out on state-owned property along Harris Creek Road between 108th Street and Parmalee Road in Irving Township around 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 17. Approximately five acres were burned. The temperature hit 100 degrees during the afternoon, with wind gusts up to 20 miles per hour. More than 30 firefighters responded to the call, and a rehab station was set up for overheated firefighters. “It appears that fireworks were the cause of the fire,” said Thornapple Township Fire Chief David Middleton. “It was moving rapidly upon [our] arrival ... and without the very quick mutual aid response from Alto, Caledonia, Freeport and Hastings, it would have been much larger.” Michigan Department of Natural Resources personnel from Plainwell brought in a bulldozer, truck and other equipment to put in trench lines. 5 x Tax High Purity Water Softener Salt 1-800-852-3098 269-945-5102 141 E. Woodlawn Ave. Hastings OPEN DAILY 8-5; SAT. 9-12 Denker Family Owned & Operated ~ Rick Denker, Owner 07605117 Hastings Police were dispatched Monday, July 23, around 11:10 a.m., to a residence on East State Road for a reported infant who was not breathing. The 7month-old girl was found on the sofa not breathing. The baby was immediately transported to Pennock hospital by EMS where a pulse was re-established. The child was then transported to a Grand Rapids hospital where she died July 24. Police learned the child had been placed on the sofa early in the morning after being attended around 4 a.m. The child was discovered on the sofa by a relative and had pushed herself under an arm cushion on the sofa. An investigation is continuing. “It’s been fun,” Alan said. “It’s been neat to have my dad helping out with that too and making it kind of a family gig and putting it together that way. Teenagers from church get a kick out of coming around and helping out. We threw RJ (Bailey from the First Baptist Church) in that faster pastor race at Berlin Friday night, four-cylinder front wheel drive stuff. That was fun.” �Page 18 — Thursday, July 26, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Civil War marches over Historic Charlton Park Scattered by the Union Cavalry, small groups of Confederates take cover and enter the skirmish. A Union cannon fires across the green as Confederate troops march in and take position for battle. by David DeDecker Staff Writer Historic Charlton Park welcomed close to 1,000 spectators to the annual Civil War Muster July 21 and 22. Nearly 700 people participated in the reenactment of Union and Confederate troops, marching into the historic village — attacking and retreating. “This year was tremendously successful,” said Charlton Park Executive Director Dan Patton. “Sunday was very hot, but we were able to do several battles over the weekend and in different locations throughout the park. We meet with the host units throughout the year and plan to grow this event every year.” Six host units of reenactors participated this year — mostly from Michigan, but the 5th Kentucky Volunteers traveled from Kentucky and Ohio for the weekend. Lloyd Kilmer, of Hastings, used his two black Percheron horses to pull a 20-pound cannon from place to place. A light artillery unit also A Union cannon is moved into a defensive position. brought several cannons up from Chicago. For more information about upcoming events at Historic Charlton Park, such as the Great Lakes Longbow Invitational, medievalera Havoc in Hastings and the Walk-in-the- Spirit Pow Wow, call 269-945-3775 or go to www.charltonpark.org. Photos by David DeDecker Visitors to Charlton Park gather on a hill above the village green to ready themselves for the Civil War battle reenactment. TYDEN PARK • SATURDAY AUG. 25TH After the battle has moved beyond their village, women again stroll through the area. Tents are pitched just beyond village limits. $ COST… 25 per team of 3 or 4 players Entries must be to the Chamber by Friday, Aug. 17th CHECK IN… 8:30 AM Make checks payable to Hastings Summerfest 2012 Pick up T-shirts at this time TIP OFF… 9:30 AM Boys & Girls (Ages 12-14) Team Name ____________________ Boys & Girls (Ages 15-17) Men & Women (Ages 18-25) Men & Women (Ages 26 & up) Age brackets subject to change based on participation Team Captain___________________________________ Age _______ Send Entries to… Phone # __________________________ 77569647 Team Members Age Age ___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________ Please fill out form completely TYDEN PARK • Barry County Chamber of Commerce 221 W. State Street Hastings, MI 49058 Questions ??… Call (269) 948-3025 SATURDAY AUG. 25TH Soldiers and villagers look among the dead and dying, trying to locate familiar faces and valuables. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, July 26, 2012 — Page 19 The village people at Historic Charlton Park go about their business unaware a battle will soon tear their quiet solitude. After the cannon fires, in gallops the Union Cavalry to disrupt the Confederate soldiers. Soldiers in gray reform their lines and fire at will while the blue infantry marches into the village square. A horse-drawn Union cannon travels by the village carpenter shop on the way to battle. After the battle, Confederates line up to prepare for the long march to their next battle. The heat, combined with heavy wool uniforms, has one soldier pulling at his coat’s collar. J-Ad Graphics and the Hastings Athletic Boosters proudly presents Union soldiers march on their next encounter after losing the battle at Charlton Park. THE BUZZ YOUNGS LEGENDS GOLF CLASSIC Saturday, August 4th, 2012 at River Bend Golf Course 4-Person Scramble • 9:00 a.m. Shot Gun Start — Cash Prizes — $75.00 per person First… 500 • Second… 300 2 Blind Draws… $100 each includes: greens fee for 18 holes of golf, shared power cart and dinner. $ $ Closest to the pin - Long Drives (Males/Females), 50/50 closest to the pin, Skins game (optional), Raffle table. LEGENDS… Jock Clarey, Lew Lang, Jack Hoke, Robert Carlson, Patricia Murphy, Richard Guenther, Bruce McDowell, Bernie Oom, Tony Turkal, Robert VanderVeen, Dr. Jim Atkinson, Carl Schoessel, Larry Melendy, Cynthia Robbe, William Karpinski, Ernest Strong, Dennis Storrs, Earlene, Larry Baum, Dave Furrow, Judy Anderson, Tom Brighton, Jeff Simpson, Jack Longstreet, Denny O’Mara, 2012 Legend Michael Murphy. To sign up please call... Nancy Schoessel at 269-945-2742 or email hastingsathleticboosters@gmail.com 77569683 Confederate soldiers line up for inspection before deploying down the road in pursuit of the retreating Union. �Page 20 — Thursday, July 26, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Grandstand shows entertain crowds at fair Cars race by the grandstand during Thursday evening’s Autocross event at the Barry County Fair. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Four wheeled vehicles got into the action as well as the bikes during the Motocross event Friday at the Barry County Fair. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Young riders navigate the terrain during the Motocross event Friday at the Barry County Fair. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Motocross races take flight during their race Friday in front of the grandstand at the Barry County Fair. (Photo by Perry Hardin) One of the bullfighters keeps a close eye on cowboy Dennis Redman as his bull leaps out of the chute during the Rodeo Wednesday at the Barry County Fair. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Chad Keizer shows off his hardware after winning the feature event during the Demolition Derby at the Barry County Fair Saturday evening. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Bareback riders did their best to hold on during their competition at the Barry County Fair Wednesday in front of the grandstand. (Photo by Perry Hardin) 06787084 Cowgirls took their turn in front of the grandstand during the barrel racing competition which was a part of the Rodeo Wednesday at the Barry County Fair. (Photo by Perry Hardin) The grandstand at the Barry County Fair was packed Saturday for the annual Demolition Derby. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Call anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads 269-945-9554 � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-08-02.pdf fa53da903099b200e746d8c21ffc85f4 PDF Text Text Hastings Mutual welcomes new CEO County roads in serious jeopardy Fall sports practices set to begin See Story on Page 2 See Editorial on Page 4 See Stories on Pages 14 & 15 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 31 NEWS BRIEFS Celtic music returns to fountain series Fridays at the Fountain will start the month of August with a return of the Celtic band, Hurry the Jug. Patrons who attend the concerts are reminded to bring lawn chairs or blankets. All concerts take place on the lawn of the Barry County Courthouse. In the event of rain, performances will be moved into the community room at Hastings City Bank, 150 W. Center St. The Seasonal Grille will be on hand to take lunch orders, with a portion of the profit going to support the series. The series is co-sponsored by the Thornapple Arts Council, the City of Hastings, and the downtown merchants. Love Inc. of Barry County seeks personal care donations Love Inc. of Barry County, a nondenominational Christian organization that helps residents in need, is seeking donations. The organization is running low on supplies and is asking citizens who are able to help by donating the following items: Feminine products, diapers (all sizes), hair care products, cleaning products, hygiene and paper products, gas cards and transit passes. Donations may be dropped of at Love Inc., 305 S. Michigan Ave., Hastings, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information, call 269-948-9555. Special election preview presented In this issue of the Banner, the publishers and the staff of J-Ad Graphics Inc. are providing what we consider to be our civic duty to keep our community informed as the Aug. 7 primary election approaches. On July 3, we mailed questionnaires to all 146 candidates who had registered with the Barry County Clerk to run for public office. Though not exhaustive, the questionnaires offered candidates a chance to provide some brief biographical information and an opportunity to present their stance on some key issues facing Barry County residents. Some candidates, many of whom are running unopposed and who may have seen no advantage to providing the requested data, did not participate and did not return the requested questionnaire. We believe they missed a responsibility to their constituents to demonstrate their enthusiasm for continuing to serve and to provide the people they represent with the political stance they will take for their new terms. With this issue of the Banner, we present our best effort to keep you informed. For the vast majority of the 146 candidates who did participate, we offer our thanks for being willing to serve. Don’t forget to ... Tuesday, Aug. 7 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, August 2, 2012 Register of deeds candidates provide educational insight by Doug VanderLaan Editor For any in the audience of approximately 50 citizens who may have attended Tuesday’s debate to learn more about the three candidates for the county register of deeds office, they at least all left with a better understanding of the office itself. “The county has a tremendous responsibility to be sure that accurate records are kept,” said the evening’s moderator, Fred Jacobs, vice president of J-Ad Graphics Inc., which publishes the Banner. “All real estate documents are recorded in the register of deeds office, and the office provides real estate abstract information to other county departments.” How those responsibilities will continue to be met will now, upon the announced retirement of current Register of Deeds Darla Burghdoff, be up to the winning primary election candidate in a field made up of Republicans Barbara Hurless, Jake Jelsema and Linda Watson. Hurless positioned herself as the candidate with the most experience, having worked under Burghdoff for the past 13 years in the register of deeds office. An audience of nearly 50 citizens attends the debate between candidates for the Register of Deeds office sponsored by J-Ad Graphics and held at the Commission on Aging Tuesday. Making their points are (from left) Barbara Hurless, Jake Jelsema and Linda Watson. “I know the duties of the office because we’ve all been cross trained,” cited Hurless, using the office’s computer capabilities as an example. “We have over 100 different codes and a high-tech computer system. I also have a strong knowledge of past computer systems and the three conversions we went through.” Both Watson and Jelsema conceded Hurless’ experience but maintained that they had skills and styles they believe the office currently needs. A strong theme in Jelsema’s response to questions from Jacobs concerned the need for improved customer service. “Being open at lunch time is a valuable thing to do,” said Jelsema as a prime customer service goal. “I’ve been at the courthouse at lunchtime and observed people who couldn’t get the help they needed. If the office has to be closed, close it earlier in the day. Being closed at lunchtime doesn’t make sense.” Hurless countered that courthouse employees are unionized and can only be asked to work hours mandated by contract. She also called Jelsema to task for stating that, if elected, he would use the time between Aug. 7 and See REGISTER OF DEEDS, pg. 3 Prosecutor debate covers professional conduct, positions and ethics by David DeDecker Staff Writer The Barry County Commission on Aging was host to well over 100 guests on July 26. The evening’s election debate event brought Barry County Prosecutor Tom Evans and challenger Julie Nakfoor Pratt to the podium to answer questions from the Barry County Bar Association. Local attorney and president of the bar association Bob Byington was the moderator for the debate. J-Ad Graphics sponsored the debate. “It has been a real pleasure to be your prosecuting attorney for the last five years,” Evans opened. “They have been tough and wonderful years but we’ve had some high profile cases and we’ve had some great wins, some difficult defeats. We have always given our absolute best for the people of Barry County.” Nakfoor Pratt, who began her 20 years as a prosecutor in Barry County in 1989 before leaving for Allegan County and returning in 2008 to open a private practice in Hastings, cited the need for change as her reason in seeking the office. The two wrangled during the evening over general questions posed regarding the prosecutor’s office and over specific questions sometimes pertaining to their personal lives and public performance. For Nakfoor Pratt, the question of her marriage to a law enforcement officer and the effect, if any, it might have on her duties as a potential county prosecutor drew special interest. “I have been married to Jeff for 20 years and we have four kids,” responded Nakfoor Pratt. “One of the most important and critical comments I want to make about being married to a police officer is the prosecutor is assigned as the chief law enforcement officer in the community. We are on the same team as the police department, so there is really no conflict in that way. “As a defense attorney, I am not assigned to my husband’s cases directly. Both of us have a lot of integrity, we have respect for our offices and our careers, and so that is number one and important to us. There is really no conflict.” Evans was pushed on his “score card,” the number of felony cases he has tried as prosecuting attorney and how many have ended in conviction or acquittal? “This term I had an identity theft, forgery, uttering and publishing charge and the guy plead guilty to all five felony counts in the middle of the trial,” stated Evans. “I had a drag racing and reckless driving case and we got a couple of convictions there. We tried an OWI causing death, driving suspended causing death and negligent homicide - we convicted on the first two counts and the third not guilty. That was one of the last negligent homicide cases ever tried. “We had another OWI causing death and I did not get the causing death part of it - he was convicted of OWI third offense. I had criminal sexual conduct found not guilty didn’t do a bad job and I think we tried it the best we could. They are tough cases in many ways. I had another OWI that we just lost. The jury was hung for a long time and then they came back not guilty. I had a murder case which came back guilty in the first degree.” The two candidates were also pushed on the use of plea bargaining and the criteria on which being allowed to plead guilty to a lesser charge would be used. “First of all, this is a common misconception,” said Nakfoor Pratt. “When you say the word plea bargain, some people think they plea bargain all their cases out. Plea bargaining is a good process, it is an essential process. You have to plea bargain some of your cases. There are any number of reasons, not the least of which is they get hundreds of cases a year. There is just no way they can all be tried. “Having said that, if it is a felony-level offense, my policy would be that the attorneys consult with the law enforcement officers which handle it and the victim if it is a victim’s rights case, before anything is done on that case. Those police officers work hard, they are out there everyday working on these cases and they know the most about them. They have talked to the victims first hand. If it is a misdemeanor, my policy would be if it is a domestic violence you have to talk to the victim. Plea bargaining is important, but there are times you have to go to trial because it is the best thing to do. Don’t be afraid to do it and let the jury know you care about the case, and have control over your case.” Evans, for the most part, agreed. “Plea bargaining, to a lot of the public is a dirty word,” state Evans, “but, it is something that happens frequently and must happen frequently. Julie and I must feel singled out, people ask us how can we plea bargain. It starts with the charging and you do the best you can with your charge. Along the way you listen to your crime victims and police officers for guidance for a final charge and sentence. “You have to recognize your case may get better or worse. Victims change their mind. Sometimes victims die or leave town. Sometimes you may lose evidence in a case. A lot of times we will take advantage of the statutory options. Sometimes it is good to get a plea to the lesser charge. If someone stole a car and they were drunk, you want the misdemeanor drunk driving conviction, because if the come back used. “I am very happy we have taken a strong approach on operating while intoxicated third offense. We try to keep the drunk driving felonies as felonies. We try to keep misdemeanor drunk driving as misdemeanor drunk driving. We get the convictions so if the person does turn out to be a repeat offender we can use past convictions.” Though they may have agreed on plea bargaining issues, Evans and Nakfoor Pratt pointed out differences in regard to the use of prosecutor’s office staff, especially as it regards the mentoring of young lawyers to prepare them for careers in the legal field. “(Mentoring) is one of Mr. Evans’ best See PROSECUTOR, pg. 2 Bob Byington (left) asks questions of Barry County Prosecutor candidates. Incumbent Tom Evans and Julie Nakfoor Pratt answer questions compiled by the Barry County Bar Association. Pipe bomb closes down M-37 near Airport Road Two Michigan State Police bomb squad trucks, along with two robots, work at the scene of a pipe bomb explosion on M-37 and Airport Road north of Hastings. Michigan State Police were called to 359 N. M-37 Highway near Airport Road around 5 a.m. Tuesday, July 31. The caller reported an attempted suicide. At the scene, troopers found a man in his early 40s with life-threatening injuries due to a pipe bomb explosion. Troopers administered first aid until emergency medical personnel arrived. The man was taken to Pennock Hospital, stabilized, then moved to Spectrum Health in Grand Rapids. In the subsequent investigation, police noted strange wires on the dash of the man’s car. Bomb squads from Grand Rapids and Lansing were called in to investigate. Two bomb robots were used initially to investigate the wires. Troopers said they believe the bomb was an attempt by the man to take his own life. The man was alone in his home. A quarter-mile section of M-37 was shut down for hours during the investigation. “There is a safety factor with any type of explosive device,” said Lt. Steve Harper. “If there is one, we don’t want anyone driving by to get hit with shrapnel.” The BIRCH Fire Department also was at the scene as a precaution. �Page 2 — Thursday, August 2, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Pennock Gun Lake center hosting Chamber’s Business After Hours Farm Bureau hosts candidate forum Candidates outnumbered audience members during the Farm Bureau Insurance Agency’s invitation-only candidate forum, which began at 7:30 p.m. in the multi-purpose room of Hastings Middle School Monday evening. The candidates were each given an opportunity to address the audience and answer questions posed by the moderator. PROSECUTOR, continued from page 1 qualities,” said Pratt. “He has an excellent staff of four attorneys who are doing an excellent job. Having said that, I do disagree with and would change, and would formulate a new policy, on what we call vertical prosecution. That’s what Mr. Evans refers to as one person-one case. “In theory, I think that sounds great, but I am going to give you the practical side of that. It is not an efficient use of the attorney’s skills or time. When I am in court every day, every single assistant prosecutor is there. That is not an efficient use of time. What’s going on in the office when all of these people are in court all the time? There are interns looking at warrant requests. That’s not acceptable. “One thing I would do differently - I think vertical prosecution is a good idea and we did it in Allegan County when I was there. If it was a felony level case you were assigned to it after bind over or after it was set at the circuit court level. If it was a misdemeanor, we only had one prosecutor assigned if it was a specific type of case, like we had a domestic Hastings Mutual welcomes new president and CEO Hastings M u t u a l Insurance Company Friday welc o m e d Joseph J. Babiak Jr. as its new president, CEO and chairman. Babiak j o i n e d Hastings Mutual in 2001 as chief finanJoseph Babiak Jr. cial officer. During the past three years, he served as the senior vice president of insurance operations in preparation for this planned succession. He has more than 30 years of industry experience. “This seamless transition is possible due to the talent and dedication of Hastings Mutual’s employees and their commitment to financial stability for our policyholders and agent partners,” said Babiak. “I look forward to leading Hastings Mutual as we continue to build upon our innovative products, customer service, technology, and agency relationships to provide our customers the best possible solutions to their insurance needs in the years ahead.” Babiak is originally from Mosinee, Wis., and worked as a senior manager at Arthur Andersen LLC prior to joining Hastings Mutual. Babiak received his accounting degree from the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point and is a certified public accountant. “Joe was selected as part of an organized, long-term transition plan to take on the role of president and CEO at Hastings Mutual,” said Dana Walters, vice president of human resources at Hastings Mutual. “His leadership, experience and knowledge of the insurance industry make him an ideal candidate to fill this position and lead Hastings Mutual into a bright future.” In 2011, Hastings Mutual ended the year with a combined ratio of 99.8 percent. Hastings Mutual Insurance Company recently received a reaffirmed A.M. Best A-plus Superior rating with a stable outlook and was named as one of West Michigan’s 101 Best and Brightest Companies to Work For. 77569854 violence prosecutor and we had a drug prosecutor. That is a very efficient use of a person’s time. But, you have to have people in the office too. You also have to cross-train your staff.” Evans expressed a diametrically opposed stance. “Respectfully, I disagree with Julie because [vertical prosecution] is working great,” maintained Evans. “Everyone has a contact person from the day the case walks in the door. The way our judges set up their criminal dockets, it works out perfectly. In district court you get in and get out and it’s wonderful. We usually do have three or four attorneys in circuit court for Wednesdays and Thursdays, but it’s not a waste of time. “First of all the judges have been great enough to try and keep us out of court in the afternoon. We always have time to meet with folks. I don’t see the issues or problems that she does. In my experience it has worked fantastic. Also, the folks who are sitting in court is a great way to become a better lawyer. So, if I am sitting there waiting for my case, I can pick up what other people are doing - the strategies and styles. “I actually think it’s the best thing we have done.” In matters of personal decorum, however, Pratt took issue. “I think prosecutorial temperament is critical, said Pratt “and one change, I can absolutely assure you, will take place Jan. 1, 2013. When the going gets tough the tough get going. They don’t yell. They don’t Fbomb people. They don’t name call. They don’t walk out of meetings. They don’t threaten or anything of that nature. I can absolutely promise you on that first day I will not do that. “You have to respect the people around you. If you don’t respect them, they will not respect you. The F-bomb will not be tolerated and I can guarantee it will not be thrown around at people. I have heard from DHS case workers, law enforcement, other attorneys, commissioners and other people that foul language and threatening or yelling behavior is taking place. It is not appropriate and it will not happen.” In his summation statement, Evans faced the charge head-on. “As you listen here, you probably have already surmised I am a real hot head,” conceded Evans. “I think it really comes from two things. Maybe we should just talk about it. There is a lady who works for DHS. I thought she was my friend and I hope she still is. I have to admit I was a little bit hurt when I thought she was supporting Julie. I took it as a knock on our people and I am very defensive of our people and our victims. “What I can say is cussing is almost always low-brow, and rarely the best way to get your point across. Occasionally, I do let one slip. It was a moment of real emotion in a very tough and difficult campaign. Certainly, if I made anyone uncomfortable, I apologize. I also chewed out a police chief once. I thought my kinder, gentler message was not getting across. So, by design I went at him like [the drill sergeant] in [the movie] Full Metal Jacket. I think it did have the desired effect. “People ask sometimes why I do this because folks try to make your life difficult. For me, it is a privilege and honor to represent you. It is one of the most important things somebody could do with a law degree, is help victims of crime. From the Declaration of Independence: We value life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. I love my job trying to fight for those things every day.” Pennock Health Services’ new Gun Lake Medical Center will host the Aug. 9 business event. The Barry County Chamber of Commerce will host its next Business After Hours event Thursday, Aug., 9, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at the Gun Lake Medical Center at 12851 W. M-179 Highway, just east of Patterson Road. The networking event offers chamber members, guests, community leaders, customers and colleagues the opportunity to learn more about the chamber of commerce as well as tour the new Gun Lake Medical Center facility. Pennock Health Services opened the Gun Lake Medical Center in April, allowing the move of the Gun Lake Family Medicine office of Larry Hawkins, M.D., and Nurse Practitioner Sarah Verburg to a larger, 5,000 square-foot facility. With the opening of the office, Amy Curry, D.O., joined the practice as a family physician. The medical center also houses a diagnostic center with lab, X-ray, EKG, and rehab services, as well as a drive-through pharmacy. “The chamber’s Business After Hours events continue to be the premier opportunity to network with local business owners and community leaders with an emphasis on mak- ing new business contacts encouraging future business connectivity,” said Valerie Byrnes, chamber president. “Creating a social environment in a business setting allows for an easy-going, yet productive, connectivity amongst businesses and community members.” Attendees will enjoy light refreshments compliments and be entered in a drawing for door prizes including Chamber Barry Bucks, which can be spent at any of more than 150 chamber member businesses throughout the county. The Barry County Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours Events are held on the second Thursday of every month from February – October from 4:30 to 6 p.m. The remaining events of the 2012 series will be Sept. 13 at YMCA Camp Manitou-Lin and Oct. 11 at the Long Lake Outdoor Center. For more information, visit the chamber’s website, www.mibarry.com/tourism/calendar. To attend a Business After Hours event, RSVP Carol Vogt, 269-945-2454, or e-mail carol@mibarry.com. Hastings Art Park continues The second week of Art Park, a free four-week art camp for youths in grades six through 12, continues this week with large scale paper mache sculpting. Students work in groups to create projects based on the themes of food, music and movies. This group (clockwise from left) Cameron Haight, Anna Pattok, Curtis Meinke, Chey Roush, Samantha Richardson, Chris Floyd, Emily Pattok, and Laura DeRose works on food-themed creations during Tuesday morning’s studio session. Art Park continues 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday through Aug. 16 with found object assemblage Aug. 6 through 9 and outdoor installation art Aug. 13 through 16. For more information, log on www.thornapplearts.org. To register call 269-945-2002 or email programs@thornapplearts.org. Call anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 77569799 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 2, 2012 — Page 3 Local school board seats are open Glass Creek, shown here where it flows through the Perry Family Farm Conservation Easement property, protected since 2005. (Photo by John Fraser) Grant awarded to conserve water quality of Glass Creek and Thornapple River The Southwest Michigan Land Conservancy, in partnership with the Barry Conservation District, Michigan Audubon Society, Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Pierce Cedar Creek Institute and Tyden Ventures, has been awarded a $270,499 matching grant by the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality to permanently conserve land in the Glass Creek Watershed. The DEQ recently ranked Glass Creek as one of the most important water bodies in the state to conserve because it is so pristine. “Glass Creek ranks highest for protection in both the lower Grand River Watershed plan and the draft Thornapple River Watershed plan,” said Joanne Barnard, executive director of the Barry Conservation District. “Most streams are candidates for restoration, not protection, with water quality on the decline due to years of nutrient and sediment loading. However, the water quality in Glass Creek benefits greatly from the natural forests and wetlands of the Barry State Game Area, which limit polluted runoff and maintain cool temperatures to support the trout fishery.” One of the things that makes Glass Creek so pristine is that most of the water springs from and winds through already conserved natural land. “Purchasing land and development rights adjacent to the BSGA provides additional protection of Barry County’s natural resources for wildlife and associated recreation,” said Sara Schaefer, DNR wildlife biologist. “The Glass Creek watershed provides unique habitat for a variety of common, as well as uncommon, wildlife and plant species. Protecting additional acres of the Glass Creek watershed will benefit wildlife and individuals who enjoy wildlife-associated recreation.” Tom Funke, director of conservation for the Michigan Audubon Society, added, “The Glass Creek subbasin is home to 23 state and federally listed species, including one species birders come from all over the country to see, the cerulean warbler. These warblers are the fastest declining songbird in North America because they can prosper only in mature, contiguous forests over 8,000 acres in size. Conserving more forested land around the BSGA where these birds can be found is imperative to their future.” The Glass Creek area is of prime regional and local importance, and concern over its sustainability has fostered the development of the Barry State Game Area conservation project, said Schaefer. Local and regional agencies and organizations, working together since 2005, have developed a conservation plan for the Barry State Game Area and have begun to implement measures to protect resources on private lands within and surrounding the game area and the Glass Creek subbasin. This DEQ grant will help conservancy fulfill the conservation plan by providing funding to conserve some of the highest priority parcels along the creek. The conservancy’s goal is to conserve an additional 1,000 acres in and around the game area within the next 10 years. “Our plan is to work with landowners during the next two years to protect critical water resource-related land, such as forested floodplains and wetlands, through conservation easements, to help ensure Glass Creek is pristine forever” stated Emily Wilke, Southwest Michigan Land Conservancy director of land protection. The DEQ announced the awarding of 13 water quality grants totaling $3 million to support watershed planning efforts and to permanently protect and restore rivers and wetlands statewide. The funding is available from through the federal Clean Water Act. To learn more about the conservancy, call 269-324-1600 or visit their website, www.swmlc.org. Local school districts all have school board seats that will be open this year. Delton Kellogg has two four-year terms available, Maple Valley has three four-year terms open, Lakewood has two four-year terms, Thornapple Kellogg has two six-year term seats open, and Hastings has two six-year terms open and a partial term that will end Dec. 31, 2014. School board election rules changed a few years ago, and all paperwork is gathered and filed at county clerk offices. Barry County Clerk’s office is at 220 W. State St., Hastings. Candidates must be registered and qualified voters of the school districts they want to serve by the filing deadline which is Aug. 14 at 4 p.m. To file, candidates must have an affidavit of identity as well as petitions containing sufficient signatures — a minimum of six and a maximum of 20 for Delton Kellogg and Maple Valley; a minimum of 40 and a maximum of 100 for Hastings, Lakewood and Thornapple Kellogg. Candidates are encouraged to file early, so that signatures can be confirmed. If candidates do not want to file a petition, they can turn in a $100 filing fee instead. For questions concerning these positions or the process, contact the school district’s superintendent’s office or the Barry County Clerk’s office. REGISTER OF DEEDS, continued from pg. 1 Tuesday’s candidate debate for the Register of Deeds position is conducted by Fred Jacobs of J-Ad Graphics (far left). On hand are candidates Barbara Hurless, Jake Jelsema and Linda Watson. January when the register of deeds-elect takes office to visit similar offices in other counties to gain ideas and insights on building efficiency. “You say you want to be hands-on, but then you talk about taking time to visit other offices,” charged Hurless. “If you’re not going to be a full hands-on register of deeds, then you shouldn’t be running — you can’t come and go as you please.” In many of her responses, Watson agreed but also positioned her stance as one in which, with over 30 years of real estate experience and extensive use of the register of deeds office, she can see where improvements and efficiencies can be instituted. “Just because things have been done an old way doesn’t mean that’s the best way,” pointed out Watson. “I think, when you work in an LARGE or small, We Ship It All! Next Time, Ship Your Luggage! We make it simple, convenient and stress-free. WHAT DOES A DENTED FENDER AND DINNER HAVE IN COMMON? It could be a lot, if you bring your vehicle to Deming’s Auto Collision in Hastings. For the month of August 2012, Deming’s will enter all the new estimates they do in a drawing for a $50 Gift Certificate to the Seasonal Grille in downtown Hastings. Deming’s works with all insurance companies and their years of quality body repair makes them southwest Michigan’s premiere body shop. No purchase is necessary, however, when you have Deming’s estimate your repairs, you just might win a certificate for a great meal! 1351 N.Broadway (M-43) Hastings DISCLAIMER: Drawing to be held on 8-31-2012 at Noon. Need not be present to win. Winner notified by phone, email, text or US Mail. Multiple estimates per person are allowed. Estimates restricted to cars, trucks, motorhomes and airplanes. 269.945.9105 2493 W. STATE RD. (NEXT TO THE HASTINGS AIRPORT) Monday - Friday 8:00AM to 5:30PM, Saturdays by Appointment 02709554 269-945-2922 Phone: Fax: 269-945-0320 • www.demingsautocollision.com OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:30 - 5:30 office, that you come up with things that improve that office ... life is a continuum of learning and I have the ability to learn.” The candidates also fielded moderator questions on the duties of the office, budgeting challenges, consolidated services with other county departments, the importance of an abstract office and real estate fraud schemes. In summation remarks, Watson stressed her real estate background and the fact that the previous two registers of deeds came from the real estate field. Jelsema, who just completed his bar exam and is currently awaiting licensure to become a certified attorney, cited his legal and financial investment background. Hurless pointed to the value of her 13 years of experience working in the current register of deeds office. �Page 4 — Thursday, August 2, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Barry County’s roadways in serious jeopardy ‘Fair well’ This sign says it all for this year’s Barry County Fair. Attendance was high throughout the week, especially the latter part. Tuesday’s thermometer reading just under 100 degrees Fahrenheit was followed by a 80-some degree days. 4H members had a great year showing animals and being with friends from throughout the county. There were many shows and activities, and the grandstands were filled nightly, selling out a couple of nights. Fair board members said it was a great year and the sign on the message board thanks the entire community for a great year. (See special supplement inside this issue of the Banner.) Do you know? Biker gang Do you recognize this photo by Barth Studio, which appears to be a bike safety program? Where was the photo taken? When? Who sponsored the program? Some of the children are holding signs. One of the signs reads “Three Cs for Safety: Care, Courtesy and Common Sense.” Another states “Broken bones and lots of trouble are what we got for riding double.” A couple of the bikes have round signs within their spokes. Three of the words on those tire signs are “ride safely” and “parade.” Do you Know? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past centu- ry that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event to reunite the photos with their original clippings or identify photos that may never have been used. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@jadgraphics.com; or call 269-945-9554. Last week’s photo of a parachuter elicited bad memories for some folks who recalled the event Aug. 6, 1949, the final day of the Barry County Fair. What was supposed to be a thrill, instead ended in tragedy. The photo was actually taken Aug. 5, when Edwin Williams, 20, of Freeport, made his 24th successful parachute jump. The following day he and his brother Eugene, 23, made a scheduled exhibition jump as part of the fair, when the younger Williams’ parachute failed to open. He landed in one of the fish hatchery ponds in about a foot of water and died instantly. His brother, trying to hasten his landing, became tangled in power lines on his landing, but was unhurt. In an Aug. 11, 1949, Banner article on the incident, Eugene Williams said he watched his brother jump from the plane and believed he may have been knocked unconscious by his parachute pack because he showed no movement or attempt to open his parachute. (Ed. note: Since these photos are unmarked, Banner staff did not knowingly run the photo to remind readers of the tragedy.) Reporting History for the Future in 6 Barry County Area Newspapers • Lakewood News • Maple Valley News • Middleville-Caledonia Sun & News • Reminder • Hastings Banner Over 64,000 Papers Distributed Every Week! 1351 N. M-43 Highway • P.O. Box 188 Hastings, MI 49058 Phone (269) 945-9554 • Fax (269) 945-5192 Monday, a longtime friend and former local business owner stopped in the office to talk about the condition of the roads in his township. He told me he’s been to his township office about the problem, but they tell him they have no additional money to make improvements on his road. “What are we to do?” he asked. “The roads are tearing up our vehicles.” This has become a problem through much of Barry County and throughout the state in recent years. In May, the Barry County Road Commission held a special road summit that was attended by more than 90 government leaders and interested citizens to learn more about the condition of our county roadways. According to Brad Lamberg, managing director of the Barry County Road Commission, the county’s roads are in better condition than those in many area counties, but he warned that without necessary funding, the county’s roads would quickly deteriorate. He pointed out that when split against the other 82 county road commissions in the state, Barry County still has some roads that are in good shape, but warned that our pavement rating system has trended down since 2003, from a rating of 7.5 (8 to 10 being good, 5 to 7 fair, and 1 to 4 poor) to our current 6.23. Using special software to forecast road conditions, Lamberg provided the group with evidence based on current funding, showing that our roads will not fare well in the coming years. He told those attending the summit that by 2015, more than half the roads in the state will be rated as in poor condition. So what are we to do? The Barry County Road Commission is responsible for 1,065 miles of roads in the county, along with numerous bridges. Yet, due to shrinking revenues, the road commission has done everything imaginable to reduce operating expenses and look for new revenue sources. Lamberg told the audience that state funding for roads comes from the Michigan Department of Transportation Fund, from a formula made up of a combination of vehicle registration fees and a 19-cent per gallon gasoline tax. He went on to explain that in 1984, the gas tax went up from 13 cents to 15 cents and increased again in 1997 to the current 19 cents per gallon. By comparison, Ohio levies a 28-cent per-gallon tax, and Wisconsin a 33.5-centper gallon tax. Like Michigan, Indiana charges 19 cents per gallon, but in an effort to reduce costs, sold off its I-80 freeway to a private company that now operates it as a toll road. Lamberg said, “when comparing state road revenue numbers nationwide, Michigan ranks 30th in average permile expenditure and 48th in terms of percapita annual expense for road repair, maintenance and construction.” Michigan ranks 30th in average per-mile expenditure and 48th in terms of per-capita annual expense for road repair, maintenance and construction. So what are we to do? Lamberg told summit attendees, to keep the road services Barry County drivers have become accustomed to, $11.7 million in revenue is needed each year, according to road commission forecasts. Currently, the road commission receives around $6.8 million in revenue, or a $4.8 million shortfall in funding that the county is falling behind on each year. In short, under Lamberg’s leadership, the road commission has cut just about What do you every possible expense while looking for creative ways to bring in additional funds to reduce current shortfalls. What’s really needed to solve the potential road crisis going forward is additional revenue. Lamberg acknowledged that six of the county’s 16 townships have a dedicated road millage, pointing out that those townships have the best roads. “The general consensus among most people is that they pay enough taxes right now,” said Lamberg. He went to say that the road commission doesn’t want to get into a debate on increasing taxes, but, without additional revenues, the road commission will find it harder and harder to maintain the roads in a way to which we’ve all grown accustomed. According to Barry County Administrator Michael Brown, a 1-mill countywide millage increase would generate nearly $2 million per year in additional revenue. Brown said currently six townships levy a special road millage, ranging from just under 1 mill to 2 mills. A 1-mill levy countywide would cost the average household approximately $52 annually. For most taxpayers, adding the increase is better than increasing the tax on gas that averages now around $3.50 per gallon because most people don’t want to pay more at the pump. So, when I asked my friend what we should do to solve the problem, his immediate response was, we need to raise some additional capital to fix the system before it falls apart. Is it time to pay a little more each year to maintain better roads to travel on along with protecting the investment we have in our vehicles. Or, is it better to have a ‘no new tax policy for any reason,’ as has been our policy? I think it’s in everyone’s best interest to pay a little more each year to protect our investment of roads and bridges that get us where we want to go each day. A little now or a lot later – I think it’s a no-brainer. Bosley celebrates 40th anniversary in Hastings It’s amazing that a small-town independent drug store like Bosley Pharmacy can compete with all the big guys out there. Bosley’s secret has been its personal service and its concern for customers. The history of the local pharmacy finds it roots way back to when J.P. Roberts opened the first drug store in 1851. In a story that appeared in a recent Reminder, Dave Jasperse talked about the Bosley name that has become a fixture on South Jefferson Street in downtown Hastings now for more than 40 years. Since Jasperse took over the store, he’s become known for finding unique ways to promote the business. He continues to focus and promote his South Jefferson Street location. His special events have covered everything from milking a goat out front to someone singing a solo on a wooden stool in the middle of the store. Once a seasoned cook baked a batch of her favorite cookies and rushed them to the store after reading his column in the Reminder finding out she could win a special prize. Yes, it all happens at Bosley Pharmacy on South Jefferson Street. And, if you see a bright yellow Volkswagen bug running around town, it’s the Medbug and Bosley’s symbol of the kinds of service you get from his store. Jasperse has become a community supporter drawing attention to everything the community has to offer. I can only hope his legacy lives on for a long, long time. think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website, www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week. Feel free to leave an opinion or comment. Last week’s question: Are you upset that U.S. Olympic uniforms were made in China -- as they were for the 2008 team and even though U.S. taxpayers did not fund the expense? 58% Yes 42% No Fred Jacobs, vice president, J-Ad Graphics For this week: Next week’s political primary will likely draw less than 25% of eligible voters. Do you plan to vote? QUESTION q q YES NO �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 2, 2012 — Page 5 Crime victims need a strong, compassionate prosecutor IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV To the editor: Julie Nakfoor Pratt was Barry County’s chief assistant prosecutor back in 1992 when I was hired as Barry County’s first crime victim rights coordinator. Julie was enormously supportive of the law that, for the first time, gave rights to crime victims. How victims were affected by the crime against them and the sometimes long process of prosecuting the crime was a huge part of every case Julie handled. At that time, Julie was the office expert on the prosecution of criminal sexual conduct cases, and I have never since seen an attorney who was so strong at working with little children, all the way up to older adults, who had been victimized. I worked for nine years with crime victims, and I can tell you that they want and they need someone who is, above all, compassionate and strong. We need Julie Nakfoor Pratt to bring back those qualities to the Barry County prosecutor’s office. Carla France, Nashville To the editor: I have had the pleasure of not only watching Bob Houtman in action at the weekly commissioner’s meetings these past few years, but I have also had the opportunity to work with him on the Animal Control Shelter Advisory Board, a much-needed group of dedicated volunteers created singlehandedly by Bob to not only help the animals housed at the local shelter, but also the humans who work there. Attending all of the ACSAB meetings and serving on various committees, I witnessed firsthand his strong leadership skills, his extensive knowledge of county government and his strong work ethic. Bob helped to convince his fellow commissioners of the need for positive changes at the shelter and demonstrated a strong commitment to fight for the right thing. Thankfully, he and the ACSAB persevered and much needed positive changes will be made at the Barry County Animal Shelter. As a side note, both of Bob’s opponents, Republican and Democrat, have gone on record that they were opposed to hiring a director at the shelter and were apparently comfortable with the status quo and the shameful state of the animal shelter. I have been impressed with the wisdom and intelligence displayed by Bob, which is a result of his extensive military, governmental and business background. Bob has shown his creativity in finding ways to cut costs at the local level, thus saving the taxpayers of Barry County money in these continuing tough times. When working with Bob, I found him to be empathetic, honest, reliable and a strong and tough advocate not only for the taxpaying citizens of the district, but also for all of the citizens of Barry County. Let’s make sure Bob can continue to serve his county proudly. I urge you to vote for Bob Houtman as county commissioner representing the new reapportioned 3rd District Aug. 7. Mary A. Fisher, Hastings Nakfoor Pratt has impeccable track record Commissioner represents Baltimore Houtman has earned another term Township well To the editor: The primary election is just days away, and many important positions will be made. We, as residents of Barry County, will have the opportunity to help better our communities. The Barry County Prosecutor’s office is one of those positions. I have personally worked with various prosecutors over a span of 30 years in Barry County. In my opinion, it is an office that must be run by a proven professional who is not afraid to take cases to trial, or by someone who procrastinates and is not prepared. This office should, without question, stand up for the rights of innocent victims who suf- fer at the hands of criminals. Julie Nakfoor Pratt is the candidate who will bring justice back to the office of prosecuting attorney. Julie has an impeccable track record and is dedicated to protecting the rights of crime victims, a proven conviction rate, and a passion for protecting children who fall victim to abuses. In a sports sense, voters have a say on how we can draft the best of the best for our team, and in this case its Julie Nakfoor Pratt. Michael Leedy, Retired Hastings City Police Prairieville candidate is problem-solver To the editor: Ted DeVries is one of the Republican candidates in the Aug. 7 primary election. Ted is currently the deputy clerk in Prairieville Township and is doing a high-quality job. I have the pleasure of working with Ted at the township, and he has proven to be effective and dedicated to his job. He always treats the residents with respect and listens to their concerns to help resolve any issues they may have. Ted has the type of personality that drives him to find answers, solve problems and address any concerns that may come up. I’ve watched DeVries grow tremendously in this position, and I know he will be an outstanding clerk for Prairieville Township. Vote the primary election Aug. 7; it will decide Prairieville’s next clerk. Cassandra McGuire, Prairieville Township Prairieville Township would be well-served by lake resident To the editor: At an open house Sunday afternoon, I had an opportunity to meet and talk to Ted DeVries, who is running for the office of Prairieville Township clerk. While I was impressed with his professional demeanor and credentials, I was equally impressed with his responses to questions that were presented to him by those in attendance. None of his responses had that all-toofamiliar political bent. Nor were they evasive or tailored to satisfy a particular constituency. Had they been, I would have spent the rest of the afternoon at the refreshment table. Interestingly, several of those in attendance were of the confrontational sort. Ted never appeared to be rattled while he listened attentively. Then, with quiet poise, he checked out what was presented, asked several probing questions and only then provided his questioners with what in my opinion were thoughtful preliminary responses. I was especially impressed with his working knowledge of the lakes within Prairieville Township. He has a residence on Pine Lake and is an active member of the Pine Lake Association. It showed. And, I couldn’t help conclude that as one of the largest constituencies in our township, lake residents would be well served by a clerk who is familiar with and up-to-speed about lake issues. In brief, I experienced a most informative and persuasive afternoon. Please vote for Ted DeVries. Prairieville Township Clerk. Aug. 7. Richard Van Niman, Plainwell Past performance shows integrity To the editor: One of the best predictors of future performance is past performance. When this concept is applied to Ted DeVries, a candidate for Prairieville Township clerk, his competencies and accomplishments speak for themselves. He has had a successful employment career. He has been an active community participant. He is a committed volunteer. He has proven to be an effective, service-centered deputy clerk. In brief, Ted’s past performance shows him to be a person of great integrity and quiet competence who possesses a superior work ethic and a genuine desire to serve. On Aug. 7, let’s give him that opportunity. His past clearly indicates that the good people of Prairieville Township will certainly be well served if they do. Wayne H. Loney, Plainwell Office needs more service-centered people To the editor: Not long ago I found it necessary to go to the Prairieville Township Hall. Upon entering, a person – who was obviously already engaged in a task – immediately (and with a smile) asked me if he could be of assistance. After explaining my situation – to someone who I was convinced was actually listening – this gentleman asked several clarifying questions. When I finished, his response was not one I usually encounter in today’s marketplace. He simply said, “I don’t know the answer to your question.” He followed that, however, with “But, I will find out.” That’s far from today’s norm. His response was so unusual that I didn’t even have presence of mind to then grill him about how long it would take. As it turned out, that question wasn’t necessary. A return call was made several hours later by a person who not only had the answer to my question but, had all the information necessary to support his response. The person I encountered that day is Ted DeVries. Ted is currently acting in the capacity of deputy clerk and is running for the office of Prairieville Township clerk. Since sharing my interaction with Ted, I was not surprised to discover others who had similar experiences with this people-centered, service-centered person. This is exactly the kind of person I want to encounter the next time a townshiprelated question or concern arises. Who knows? Maybe next time I’ll even get the answer I want. On Aug. 7, I’m voting for more Ted DeVries’-style of public service. This is exactly the kind of responsive, competent leadership we need to continue electing in Prairieville Township. We need more of this. Kathy Mutschler, Delton Supervisor brings experience to the job To the editor: The Aug. 7 primary election is important because voters will choose candidates who will represent our local county and township offices. In Hope Township, Pat Albert is running for supervisor. Pat has proven herself to be a leader who has the knowledge, experience, commitment, honesty and fairness in decisions she helps to make for our township. She is a very dedicated person and strives hard to keep our township informed on issues that arise. Pat has 16 years of experience and has the skills to be the best candidate for supervisor. She has a good working relationship with the fire, ambulance, library, road, cemetery departments and elected employees of the township, all other employees, as well as the majority of township residents and taxpayers. Pat attends all township board meetings and considers what’s good for the township. She looks out for our interests and is trustworthy. I will be voting to re-elect Pat Albert for supervisor of Hope Township and encourage the electors to carefully consider her qualifications before voting Aug. 7. Shirley R. Case, Former Hope Township clerk To the editor: Jeff VanNortwick has been our very active and involved county commissioner for two years. He not only has represented us very well in Baltimore Township; but has been a source of pride in the influence he has had in helping to improve and safeguard the environment for the county as well as the state. I would urge all his constituents to go to the polls Aug. 7 and re-elect him. Alice Jones, Baltimore Township Houtman gets support from other district To the editor: I have never before written a letter of support for a local elected official. However, I have had the opportunity to work with one particular commissioner for the past 19 months. During that time, I have come to realize how fortunate Barry County is to have Bob Houtman serving on the board of commissioners. Bob Houtman has continuously demonstrated his dedication to serve the people of our county. He brings experience and enthusiasm to our local governmental board. Bob has an excellent understanding of how to get things accomplished in a bureaucratic system. Bob is not my district’s commissioner. However, I urge those in Bob Houtman’s district to cast their votes for him Aug. 7. Barry County needs the abilities Bob Houtman has demonstrated as county commissioner. Kathy Wiggins, Castleton Township Drug court has helped change lives To the editor: It seems that most of the letters to the editor of late are aimed at tearing down the reputations of leaders in our community. It is much more palatable to me to hear about the positive traits of an issue or a person without the counter banter of put-downs. I am writing to give praise to Judge Amy McDowell and the entire drug court staff for their dedication to the drug court program in Barry County. Under the leadership of former Judge James Fisher and the drug court administrator, Barry County has been recognized by the state as providing a program for substance abuse offenders that has proven to be successful for the individuals involved and the county. Judge McDowell has continued and expanded the program since Judge Fisher’s retirement. I have seen time and again how this program helps those with substance abuse problems learn to change lifestyle choices, gain selfrespect and realize new opportunities for a better future. I know Judge McDowell and staff members from a professional perspective and can assure you that what I have seen is nothing but the highest standards of conduct and a real passion to aid in the success of the individuals with whom they do business. Although a shortfall of funds has occurred due to a reallocation by the new court administrator, this cadre of professionals continues to provide the services that have proven to reduce recidivism due to drug offenses. Kudos to Judge Amy McDowell and the dedicated members of this department for their passion, their heart, their discipline and their hard work in making positive changes in the lives of so many. May they continue this valuable work until we no longer have substance abuse issues at our doorstep. Joyce Snow, Hastings Incumbent commissioners should be replaced To the editor: As a taxpayer, I have concerns about the Animal Control fiasco that has been going on. I have two main concerns: where the money to pay wages for a director and a clerk will be found, and the Humane Society. Commissioner Robert Houtman, a former administrator for Kalamazoo County, modeled the Kalamazoo animal control after Barry County’s. Houtman, who has been very verbal against Barry County Animal Control, now says Animal Control is in dire need of reorganizing. So Houtman brings in counties five times our size to reorganize rather than counties comparable to Barry County. Kalamazoo County Animal Control appears to be doing very well as stated in the June 28 Banner by Kalamazoo County Director Steve Lawrence. He says Barry County should continue as it is and hire two more officers. The commissioners passed the resolution without any firm thoughts on funding. Where is the money coming from to pay the wages for a director and a clerk? Earlier this year, Commissioners were crying that the county was in deep financial trouble. The courthouse laid off employees, vacant positions were not filled, contract negotiations led to either no pay raises or very small raises, employees now pay more for insurance and drug benefits. This plan is based on using wages from a vacant animal control officer position and one less commissioner position. This money may pay for the clerk’s wages and benefit package which when added together, could amount to $30,000 to $35,000. Now what do we pay the director? Even the low Zoning knowledge has been valuable To the editor: The success of the Joint Planning Alliance has been due to the cooperation, foresight and talents of each of the respective members. The taxpayers of Rutland Township are fortuntae to have Jim Carr as their supervisor for the past five years. His planning and zoning knowledge has been valuable as the urban services agreement has been crafted. This knowledge and dedication in the upcoming term will be very valuable for all members, especially Rutland Township. The re-election of Jim Carr would be a wise choice for all concerned. Jim Brown, supervisor Hastings Charter Township Brad Carpenter, supervisor Carlton Township end of the scale for a director, including wages and benefits, could cost $50,000. Commissioner Houtman states in the July 5 Banner the director should be deputized to enforce the Michigan dog laws for vacation fill for Sheriff Leaf’s Animal Control officer. Already he is wanting to take control of the law enforcement side of the animal control, in violation of the separation of responsibilities. In the same issue, Commissioner Craig Stolsonburg gives an estimate of the director position “aka supervisor” price would be $40,000. Does this include costs of benefits, or just wages? In a meeting Commissioner Joe Lyons, who has been very verbal against the Animal Control, said it was worth $25,000 to him to separate the Animal Control duties. Maybe he should donate to these wages. I am tired of commissioners misusing the taxpayers’ money. I think all incumbent commissioners running for re-election should be replaced with new blood that will represent the taxpayers’ best interests – not their personal vendettas. My other concern is the Humane Society; they are like little kids crying until they get their way. The Humane Society has been a thorn for Animal Control clear back to the 1960s. They want things run their way, for $18,000 they want “a room with a view” in the Animal Control building and to change the name as well. The Humane Society wants volunteers to get things done. Maybe Kathy Wiggins could explain why as a “volunteer” she pays herself $7,000 a year to answer the Humane Society phone line. Funny way of volunteering. The money canisters seen in stores for pet donations help pay “volunteers.” Mary Fisher says in the July 19 Banner that 12 years ago, after their $30,000 donation to the new building, they were not welcome as volunteers at the shelter. Could it be a possibility that liability was a major factor? If volunteers were bitten, attacked, injured by these animals, could they guarantee there would not be a lawsuit against the county for this injury? If a volunteer tells a prospective adoptee that this animal is safe and that dog or cat injures their child, would the county be in a lawsuit? If these “volunteers” were really dedicated, they would be going door to door offering people discount rates to spay or neuter pets to keep the population down. This would lower the number of dogs and cats taken in at the Animal Control and also the euthanasia rate. When this new separation of responsibilities goes into effect, costs for license, fees, adoptions, spaying and neutering will go up. The rates will be so high people will be unable to afford pet adoption, especially while trying to become self-supporting. C-snip offers lower rates but the closest is on 44th Street. Keep business local, work with vets to lower prices. How many new hoops will an adoptee have to go through to get a pet? Commissioner Stolsonburg is the only one not being challenged in the election. I urge taxpayers to elect new blood for our board of commissioners for the coming term. Sandra VanDenburg, Hastings The Hastings More letters on page 13 Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Bonnie Mattson • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 �Page 6 — Thursday, August 2, 2012 — The Hastings Banner See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS Area Obituaries 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits Worship Together… Aletha Jean (Lauer) White Mary Louise Foxworth Richard D. Shoebridge HASTINGS, MI - Aletha Jean (Lauer) White of Hastings, formerly of Eaton Rapids, passed away in Hastings July 30, 2012 at the age of 86. Aletha was born May 17, 1926 in Lansing, the daughter of Harry R. and Laura B. (Huntington) Lauer. She was married to Clarence H. White for 56 years before his passing in 2004. Aletha was a member of Robbins United Methodist Church in Eaton Rapids and also Hope United Methodist Church in Hastings. She was a longtime volunteer with the Red Cross, Eaton Rapids Helping Hands, Youth Haven Ranch in Rives Junction, Michigan and Arizona, and a life member of the Eastern Star. She is survived by her daughters, Suzanne Marie Pufpaff of Hastings, Cynthia Joyce (Bryan) Wade of Charlotte; grandchildren, Nathan (Amy) Pufpaff, Kristin (Umair Syed) Pufpaff, Timothy Wade, Alison (Aaron) Todd; four great grandchildren; sisters, Alice Lauer of Chandler, AZ, Joyce Osburn of Oscoda. Aletha was preceded in death by her husband, Clarence; parents; sister, Roberta Willoughby. Funeral services were held Wednesday, August 1, 2012 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, 518 S. Main St. Eaton Rapids. Memorial contributions may be made to the Youth Haven Ranch where Aletha and Clarence volunteered at their Michigan and Arizona Ranches, PO Box 97, Rives Junction, MI 49277. Those desiring may visit our website to place online condolences or sign the guest book, www.shellyodell.com. ALBUQUERQUE, NM - Mary Louise Foxworth was born on December 12, 1922, the daughter of Arthur and Ariel Cline, of Columbia, MO. She died on June 18, 2012 in Albuquerque, NM. She is survived by her daughters, Deborah, Wendy, Elizabeth, Cynthia; son, Gary; her sister, Sarah Jane; former husband, Donald L. Foxworth; 11 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. She graduated from the Jackson Memorial Hospital’s School of Nursing in 1943. She played basketball, tennis and played the xylophone in the band. She had a love of music and sang in numerous choirs with a strong alto voice. Mary Lou earned a Masters of Arts in education from the University of Michigan in 1961. While raising a family of five, she was a high school counselor and nurse at Central High School in Flint. She was the Director of Health Occupations for the Genesee Area Skill Center. She established the curriculum for high school students to earn college credits towards their nursing degrees – a first in the State of Michigan. Mary Lou also held the office of president of the State of Michigan Nurses Association. Mary Lou continued to work in the nursing field and as a substitute teacher until her 80th birthday. Her life was committed to the belief that people can significantly improve their lives and others through education. She will be deeply missed. A memorial service will be held at Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Hastings, on Sunday, August 5, 2012 at 3 p.m. In gratitude for her dedication to education, donations can be made in Mary Lou’s honor to Flint Community Schools Business Office, 923 E. Kearsley Street, Flint, MI 48503. All donations will go towards a nursing scholarship fund. Richard D. Shoebridge passed away July 30, 2012 at home surrounded by family. He was born January 25, 1913 in Needmore, MI to Burt and Minnie (Gear) Shoebridge. During his lifetime he was employed with Royal Coach in Hastings, Motor Wheel in Lansing and Bradford White, where he retired after 20 years of service in 1974. Richard married his first wife, Annette Fisk, and had two children, Dolores and Delbert and then entered into the Army during World War II. In, 1938 he married his second wife, Nina Nelson. Together they had seven children and moved to Freeport in 1951. Nina passed away August 15, 2001. Richard and Nina started the First Church of God in Hastings. They were devoted to the church. Richard taught bible study his whole life. They also had the Shoebridge Adult Foster Care in Freeport for 25 years. Richard loved to hunt and fish with his family and friends. He is survived by his wife, Margaret Patrick Shoebridge; daughters, Dolores Carlson of Viola, ID, Lufurl “Sue” Kohler of Hastings, Sandy (Larry) Meyers of Charlotte and Lorraine (Ronnie) Pennington of Freeport; sons, Delbert (Jane) Hutchings of Brownwood, TX, Deforest Shoebridge of Highsprings, FL, James (Jan) Shoebridge of Hastings and Wesley (Laurie) Shoebridge of Dorr; sister, Betty Reagan of Bigspring, TX; daughter-in-law, Ruby Shoebridge of Bay City; stepchildren, Phillip Patrick and Phyllis Johnson; 17 grandchildren; 56 great grandchildren; and 27 great great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by son, Bruce Shoebridge; half sister, Evelyn Hospendar; and brother, Lloyd Shoebridge. We would like to thank Pennock Home Health and Pennock Hospice for all their help and support. A very special thank you to Karen. “Daddy we will still be celebrating your 100th birthday on January 25, 2013.” Visitation will be held at Lauer Family Funeral Homes-Wren Chapel, 1401 N. Broadway in Hastings on Thursday, August 2, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Graveside services will be held at Freeport Cemetery in Freeport on Friday, August 3, 2012 at 11 a.m. Please share a memory with Richard’s family at www.lauerfh.com 77569716 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Sunday, August 5 - Worship Service 8 and 10 a.m. August 5 - Men’s Alcoholics Anonymous 7 p.m. August 6 - Spiritual Alcoholics Anonymous 7:30 p.m. August 7 Worship Committee 7 p.m. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-9459414 or 945-2645, fax 269-9452698. Pastor Amy Luckey. http://www.discover-grace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service; 1 p.m. Youth Group Meeting - Tubing. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot. com. Friday - 9 a.m. Golfer’s Group Meets; 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday - 4 p.m. Pickleball; 6:30 p.m. Softbal; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Tuesday - 6:30 p.m. Softball. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball. Publishers of: 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 Fiberglass Products 945-2471 To contact one of our Printing Specialists Call: 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 Phone (269) 945-9554 Fax (269) 945-5192 PR 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 1 OR OL 945-4700 •Hastings Banner •Hastings Reminder •Sun & News •Lakewood News •Maple Valley News •Marshall Chronicle & Community Advisor •Battle Creek Shopper •Lowell Ledger & Buyers’ Guide CO PIE 102 Cook Hastings 1351 N. M-43 Hwy. P.O. Box 188 Hastings, MI 49058-0188 Whether your printing needs are complex color brochures or simple black and white forms, let J-ad Graphics design, print and deliver quality printed materials you’ll be proud of. Complete design, printing and bindery facilities in-house to handle all of your printing needs no matter how large or small. Call one of our Printing Specialists today! This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: 1401 N. Broadway Hastings FAMILY FUNERAL HOMES We Have a Colorful Solution... COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. Lauer Family Funeral Homes Have a Printing Need? s WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Youth Pastor, Eric Gillespie. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. for children and youth, and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Junior & Senior High Youth Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Mid-Week Pioneers and adult classes return in September. Thursday: Senior Adult Bible Study at 10 a.m. and lunch at Wendy’s, 11:30 a.m. Vacation Bible School: Wed. & Thurs., July 25 & 26, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. *H *O igh ne Q Ch •C eck H ua o ou lit •F olor ut o ol rP yF •C di Cop ur s n pe •B olla g & ies ho ilm cia t ls •C lack ing Lam to er vi in * Pro •P usto & W ce ati s: m l ng h ce an astic Ru ite d ss M Bin bbe Cop or i in e! ding r Sta es g* m p PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Rev. Ryan Wieland. Sundays - 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Service; Sunday School and Nursery available during both services (Summer Schedule - Adult Sunday School: 9 a.m., Worship & Children’s Programs 10 a.m.) Youth Group, Covenant Prayer, Choir, Chimes, Praise Band, Quilting Group, Community Breakfasts and more! Call the church office at (269) 721-8077 (M/W/F 9 a.m.-12 p.m.), e-mail office@mei.net or visit www.countrychapelumc.org <http://www.countrychapelumc.org/> for more information HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 8:45 a.m. Traditional Worship; 10 a.m. Refreshments; 10:45 a.m. Contemporary Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. I NT RI LP WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. • FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. ORANGEVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH 6921 Marsh Rd., 2 miles south of Gun Lake, Plainwell. Phone 269664-4377. OrangevilleBaptist.org. Pastors Dan Bowman and Adam Parmenter. Sundays - 9:45-10:45 a.m. Sunday school classes for age 2 through adults; 11 a.m. Summer messages: “God’s Ten Words For a Vital Spiritual Life” (The Ten Commandments); 5:30 p.m. Teen Word of Life Club; 6 p.m. “Guard the Gospel” A study of 2 Timothy. Wednesdays - 7 p.m. prayer; 8:30 p.m. Men’s Bible Study. MondayFriday - July 9-13 - 9:30 a.m.-noon, Vacation Bible School, age 5-7th grade with Uncle Al Torres - RBM Minstries. Sunday, July 15 - Guest speaker, Dr. Eldon Stevens. Sunday, August 19 - Summer concert. IN TIN G N CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 . • SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. NG GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. IG ES &D Sharon Ann McGinness MIDDLEVILLE, MI- Sharon Ann McGinness, age 60, of Middleville, passed away Friday, July 27, 2012, very unexpectedly at Pennock Hospital in Hastings. Sharon worked for Stephenson Law office for 22 years and Zondervan in Grand Rapids for 10 years. She married Jim McGinness on November 28, 1968. Sharon worked for the Stephenson & Lawyer for 22 years and Zondervan for 10 years, both of Grand Rapids. Sharon is survived by her husband, James McGinness of Middleville; son, Brian (Darcy) McGinness and grandchildren Bailey and Olivia McGinness, all of Grand Rapids. Sharon was a loving wife, mother and grandmother and will be greatly missed. Memorial contributions may be made to Barry Community Hospice, 450 Meadow Run Dr., Hastings, MI 49058. A memorial service will be held Wednesday, August 1, 2012 at 6 p.m. at the Ada Bible Church, Kentwood Campus, 2045 68th St., Kentwood, MI. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guestbook or to leave a message or memory to the family. �Social News Specialist answers questions about benefits, Medicare, disability My husband and I are both entitled to our own Social Security benefits. Will our combined benefits be reduced because we are married? No. When each member of a married couple works in employment covered under Social Security and both meet all other eligibility requirements to receive retirement benefits, lifetime earnings are calculated independently to determine the benefit amounts. Therefore, each spouse receives a monthly benefit amount based on his or her own earnings. If one member of the couple earned low wages or did not earn enough Social Security credits (40) to be insured for retirement benefits, he or she may be eligible to receive benefits as a spouse. To learn more about retirement, visit www.socialsecurity.gov/retirement. Can I receive Social Security benefits and Supplemental Security Income benefits at the same time? You may be able to receive SSI in addition to monthly Social Security benefits if your Social Security benefit is low enough for you to qualify for SSI. Whether you can get SSI depends on your income and resources (the things you own). If you have low income and few resources, you may be able to supplement your Social Security benefit with an SSI payment. You can find out more about SSI by going to www.socialsecurity.gov and selecting the SSI banner at the top of the page. What are the limits on what I can own to be eligible for Supplemental Security Income? Can I have money in the bank, a car, and a furnished house? We count real estate, bank accounts, cash, stocks and bonds toward the resource limits on what you can own. You may be able to get SSI if your resources are worth no more than $2,000. A couple may be able to get SSI if they have resources worth no more than $3,000. Keep in mind that we usually don’t count the house you live in, personal items such as furniture and clothing, or the car you drive towards that resource amount. You can find out more about SSI by going to www.socialsecurity.gov and selecting the “SSI” banner at the top of the page. How do I apply for Social Security disability benefits? There are two ways that you can apply for disability benefits. You can apply online at www.socialsecurity.gov; or call toll-free 800772-1213, to make an appointment to file a disability claim at your local Social Security office or to set up an appointment for someone to take your claim over the telephone. If you are applying online, a Disability Starter Kit is available at www.socialsecurity.gov/disability. The kit will help you get ready for your disability claim interview. If you schedule an appointment, a Disability Starter Kit will be mailed to you. My doctor said he thinks I’m disabled. Who decides if I meet the requirements for Social Security disability benefits? We first will review your application to make sure you meet some basic requirements for Social Security disability benefits, such as whether you worked enough years to qualify. Then we will send your application to the disability determination services office in your state, often called the DDS or state agency to determine whether you meet the legal definition of disabled. Your state agency completes the disability decision for us. Doctors and disability specialists in the state agency ask your doctors for information about your condition. They consider all the facts in your case. They use the medical evidence from your doctors and hospitals, clinics, or institutions where you have been treated and all other information. The state agency staff may need more medical information before they can decide if you are disabled. If more information is not available from your current medical sources, the state agency may ask you to go for a special examination. The preference is to ask your own doctor, but sometimes the exam may have to be done by someone else. Social Security will pay for the exam and for some of the related travel costs. Learn more about disability benefits at www.socialsecurity.gov/disability. Art and Linda (Wyley) Ribble will celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary on Saturday, Aug. 4, 2012. They have two sons, Shawn and Matthew (Casey) Ribble and seven grandchildren. Call anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads 269-945-9554 Robert Aaron-Lynn Keown, Delton and Catherine Ann Ritchie, Delton. Randy Joe Hayes, Hastings and Bethany Ann Aspinall, Hastings. Brook Paco Craft, Plainwell and Amy Reanee English, Muskegon. Steven Nicholas Wright, Falls Church, VA and Claire Marie Tornga, McLean VA. Jordan Matthew Porter, Woodland and Stephanie Lynn Dunnigan, Woodland. Daniel James Eads, Woodland and Jamie Marie Emmons, Woodland. Duane Bruce Windes II, Hastings and Rikki Lyn McMellen, Hastings. Peter David Stalzer, Middleville and Mimi Carol Maheney, Middleville. The Immediate Openings RN/LPN PRIVATE DUTY Nashville, Marshall, Springport, Jackson Trach / Vent Experience Preferred FT/PT - NIGHTS/days EXPERIENCED HHAs/CNAs Battle Creek and Kalamazoo areas (including Albion, Homer, Three Rivers, Galesburg) FT/PT - days/nights Please Send Resume to: 77569848 77569443 Marriage Licenses Bay Pointe Inn was the scene of a lovely wedding Friday, June 1, 2012 at 5:30 p.m. when Ida Botten and Eric J. Laurie were united in marriage in the presence of family and friends. Parents of the bride and groom are Astrid Hamnes of Molde, Norway, Einar Botten of Surnadal, Norway and Tim and Felicity Laurie of Hastings, Michigan. Pastor Andrew Courtright performed the ceremony. Serving as maid of honor was Anne Roenning with Bjoerg Bergheim and Marit Vallum Wesche serving as bridesmaids, all friends of the bride. Flower girls were Anne Marie Hamnes Hoevik and Elise Hamnes Hoevik, cousins of the bride. All of whom traveled from Norway to be a part of the special occasion. Serving as best man was Brian McKeough, friend of the groom, with Craig Laurie, brother of the groom, and Silas Smith, cousin of the groom, serving as groomsmen. Cody and Lorie Norton were master and mistress of ceremony, Jenny Johnston was photographer and Todd Willard was video technician. The couple will honeymoon at a later date and will reside in Molde, Norway. They wish to thank all of their family and friends for all the love and support shown to them. ® Who can get Extra Help with Medicare prescription drug coverage? Anyone who has Medicare can get Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage. Joining a Medicare prescription drug plan is voluntary, and you pay an additional monthly premium for the coverage. People with higher incomes might pay a higher premium. If you have limited income and resources, you may be eligible for Extra Help to pay for the costs — monthly premiums, annual deductibles, and prescription co-payments — related to a Medicare prescription drug plan. To qualify for Extra Help, you must reside in one of the 50 states or the District of Columbia. Your resources must be limited to $13,070 for an individual or $26,120 for a married couple living together. (Resources include such things as bank accounts, stocks, and bonds. We do not count your house and car as resources.) Your annual income must be limited to $16,755 for an individual or $22,695 for a married couple living together. Even if your annual income is higher, you still may be able to get some help. Learn more at www.socialsecurity.gov/prescriptionhelp. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, Aug. 2 — Movie Memories views the little gem “Easy Living” with Ray Milland, 5 to 8 p.m.; Friday, Aug. 3 — preschool story time romps at a pajama party, 10:30 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 4 — summer reading program ends Tuesday, Aug. 7 — no toddler story time in august; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30; open chess club, 6 to; No Family Left Indoors takes on the library’s photo scavenger hunt, 6 to 8 p.m. Call the Hastings Public Library for more information, 269-945-4263. Ribbles to celebrate 40th wedding anniversary Botten-Laurie united in marriage 77569819 I just got back from an overseas military deployment and I want to plan ahead for my retirement. How will my military retirement affect my Social Security benefits? Your military retirement won’t affect your Social Security benefits at all. You can get both. Generally, there is no offset of Social Security benefits because of your military retirement. You will get full Social Security benefits based on your earnings. However, your Social Security benefit might be reduced is if you also receive a government pension based on a job in which you did not pay Social Security taxes. You can find more information in the publication Military Service and Social Security at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10017.html, or call 800-772-1213. Isaac Robert James, born at Pennock Hospital on July 10, 2012 at 7:07 p.m. to Nathan Keiser and Samantha Miller of Hastings. Weighing 8 lbs. 3 ozs. and 21 inches long. Proud stepdad is Alex J. Mutch. ***** Emery Joy, born at Pennock Hospital on July 16, 2012 at 5:58 p.m. to Rachel and Rick Sherk of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 13 ozs. and 20 1/2 inches long. ***** Isaiah William, born at Pennock Hospital on July 17, 2012 at 5:22 p.m. to Selena and Jason Hudson of Hastings. Weighing 6 lbs. 2 ozs. and 18 inches long. 77564841 How do I change my citizenship status on Social Security’s records? To change your citizenship status shown in Social Security records: Complete an application for a Social Security card (Form SS-5), which you can find online at www.socialsecurity.gov/online/ss-5.html and locate documents proving your new or revised citizenship status, age and identity. (Only certain documents can be accepted as proof of citizenship. These include your U.S. passport, a certificate of naturalization, or a certificate of citizenship. If you are not a U.S. citizen, Social Security will ask to see your current immigration documents) Then, take or mail your completed application and documents to your local Social Security office or card center. All documents must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. We cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents. For more information, visit www.socialsecurity.gov. Newborn Babies recruiter@optimalstaffing.com Or Fax to: 517-394-7716 77569852 SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 2, 2012 — Page 7 �Page 8 — Thursday, August 2, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of by Elaine Garlock Sunday, Aug. 5, Central United Methodist Church will hold its 9:30 a.m. service on the lawn. Brunch will follow. Guests and visitors are welcome. This past Sunday Lakewood United Methodist Church held its Sunday morning service on the grounds of the Lake Odessa Depot with a large awning overhead. A male quartet sang original Christian music for much of the service. The Ionia County Genealogical Society will meet Saturday, Aug. 11. The Curtis sisters, Jacqueline and Janice will bring an oral history program on the pioneer Bretz and Curtis families, one of which had 10 granddaughters. This family goes back yet one more generation to the George family of Odessa Township. There are scores of George descendants in this area. Residents of Johnson Street are elated to finally have their street covered with two layers of new tarvia. Workers arrived Thursday afternoon with several vehicles, and the scraping began. They had a very hot day on which to begin their task. Soon, the rain came and they kept on working without stopping. One worker was seen taking off his shirt, wringing it out, donning it again and he kept on working. The weather continued to alternate between scorching sun and rain but they continued until after 7 p.m. Then Saturday morning, they returned to apply the second coat. Finally we have a smooth corner with no more need for a sandwich board with blinking amber light and no more protruding water main jutting three inches above the surface of the road. Depot Day came on a beautiful day with ideal weather. The crowd began drifting in mostly carrying their own lawn chairs, or settling under the 60-foot tent. The sound man got his equipment ready and tended his control boar for the entire day. The food vendors set up and began serving cold drinks and then the hot dogs and brats and also ice cream sundaes. The Center Stage dancers under the direction of Kelly Sanderson and helpers performers in small combos in clever costumes until 1 p.m. when the Lakewood Lions Club was honored. Members came from Clarksville, Woodland, and Lake Odessa. The Jamie Rodriguez award was given with village president Karen Banks presiding. As is customary, the Rodriguez family was on stage but this year the numbers were greatly increased with three generations present. Jim DeYoung entertained with his smooth vocal music. Music by various performers and the Thunderfloor Cloggers followed. At 5 p.m. President John Waite with assistance from a member of the sound team drew the winning number from the raffle tickets. Winner of a $100 bill was Joan Hanson. Indoors, were new exhibits from the Luther Brodbeck family of Alma. Mr. Brodbeck had been a station agent at Woodbury and Lake Odessa. His grandchildren felt the Lake Odessa Museum was the best place to preserve these railroad souvenirs. Members of the Ionia County Genealogical Society were busy all day selling copies of the newly printed books on Korean veterans of Ionia County. The library has recently decided to drop any fees for non-residents to borrow materials and books from the library. Tax support comes from the village and township and half of Sebewa Township. Now it is free to all in Lakewood district. 269-967-8241 EDWARD JONES Financial tips for newly single women Within a marriage, a man and a woman’s financial circumstances are generally pretty much equal. But if a divorce occurs, the woman’s situation tends to be somewhat more challenging than that of her ex-spouse. And that’s why, during this major life transition, you may want to meet with a professional financial advisor to go over your spending needs and your cash flow, so that you know what you absolutely need today — and how you can plan for tomorrow. But before we get into some possible steps you can take, let’s look at some of the reasons that women may fare worse than men, financially speaking, following a divorce: • Lower income — The average woman’s family income drops by 37% after divorce, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. And in many cases, divorce exacerbates a situation in which women were already trailing men in earnings. In fact, women still only earn 77 cents for each dollar earned by men, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. • Smaller retirement accounts — The average balance on women’s defined contribution plans (such as 401(k) plans) is only 60 percent of men’s average balances, according to LIMRA, a financial services research organization. Of course, “averages” are just that — averages. But whether you recognize yourself in the above numbers or not, consider these suggestions: Create an emergency fund. Try to put six months’ to a year’s worth of living expenses in a liquid account. Once you’ve established this emergency fund, you won’t have to dip into long-term investments to pay for unexpected costs, such as an expensive car repair, a new furnace or a large medical bill. Contribute as much as you can afford to your retirement accounts. Even if you will eventually receive some of your ex-spouse’s retirement funds, you need to take full advantage of your own savings opportunities — because it’s pretty hard to save “too much” for retirement. If money is tight, it won’t always be easy, but contribute as much as you can to your 401(k) or similar employer-sponsored retirement plan. At a minimum, put in enough to earn the employer’s match, if one is offered. Rebalance your investment portfolio. If you are now investing for yourself, you’ll want to take a close look at your asset mix to make sure it is appropriate for your situation. For example, your risk tolerance may be quite different than that of your ex-spouse’s, so if you now have total control over an investment portfolio, you need to make sure it reflects your needs and preferences. Consequently, you may need to “rebalance” your holdings. Above all, get some help. As mentioned above, now is a good time to meet with a financial advisor. And if you don’t have much experience in managing your finances, you may even find it helpful to work with a trust company, which can collaborate with your financial provider to manage your assets and can also provide a variety of other functions, including bill payment and recordkeeping. A trust company’s services can prove especially valuable to you and your family should you ever become incapacitated. Unfortunately, a divorce may leave you feeling “at sea” in many areas of your life. But by following the above suggestions, you can at least help keep your financial ship in calmer waters. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 35.97 +.40 AT&T 37.92 +3.29 BP PLC 39.90 +.09 CMS Energy Corp 24.66 +.54 Coca-Cola Co 80.80 +4.14 Eaton 43.84 +2.84 Family Dollar Stores 66.08 -.44 Fifth Third Bancorp 13.82 +.13 Flowserve CP 119.98 +10.03 Ford Motor Co. 9.24 +.18 General Mills 38.70 +.79 General Motors 19.71 +.69 Intel Corp. 25.70 +.69 Kellogg Co. 47.70 +1.17 McDonald’s Corp 89.36 +1.30 Pfizer Inc. 24.04 +.68 Ralcorp 59.67 -.20 Sears Holding 49.49 +1.13 Spartan Motors 5.10 +.17 Spartan Stores 17.20 +.22 Stryker 52.03 +1.28 TCF Financial 10.33 +.35 Walmart Stores 74.43 +2.29 Gold $1,613.65 +32.67 Silver $27.96 +.94 Dow Jones Average 13,009 +392 Volume on NYSE 835M +75M 77568328 Call anytime to place your Hastings Banner classified ad 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 Licensed / Insured / Local s Road 200+ HOMES ON GRAVEL ROADS IN RUTLAND TOWNSHIP Call Scott 517-290-5556 • 877-448-1548 Please come to Township Meeting 77569835 FREE Consultation & Estimates! ALSO EGRESS WINDOWS / MOLD REMEDIATION August 8 • 7:30 PM e m o C e m o C e Com s Road 77569827 Coffee Espresso Ice Cream Custom Sodas Sandwiches Fresh Baked Goods TWO BROTHERS AND A TENT For All Your Tent Rental Needs Tables and chairs available. 77569846 Every Day Serving Plainwell Ice Cream and Specialty Roasted Coffee 108 W. State St. Downtown Hastings COFFEE HOUSE Call: Dan McKinney 269-838-7057 or Tom McKinney 269-838-3842 Mon-Tue: 5AM-7PM Wed: 5AM-8PM Thur-Sat: 5AM-9PM Sun:Closed Facebook & Twitter @TheStateGrounds 77566915 JULIE NAKFOOR PRATT for Barry County Prosecutor 77569833 “We believe it is time for a change at the Barry County Prosecutor’s Office. We endorse Julie Nakfoor Pratt and encourage you to vote for her in the August 7th Republican Primary.” I am Julie Nakfoor Pratt and I would appreciate your vote on August 7. I have over 20 years of prosecutor experience. I will restore justice, honor, and integrity to the Barry County Prosecutor’s Office Paid for by The Committee to Elect Julie Nakfoor Pratt Prosecutor, 97 Sherwood Dr., Hastings, MI 49058 Shirley Barnum, Kerry Becker, Frank Campbell, Kristen Cove, Julie DeBoer, Steve DeBoer, Linda DeWitt, Dave Dimmers, Carol Dwyer, Brian Ellens, Kent Enyart, Erika Enyart, Ann Enyart, Chris Fish, Martha Ford, Carla France, Paul France, Ben Geiger, Dave Gilbert, Joe Glasgow, Mark Hewitt, Robert Houtman, Joseph Huebner, Barb Hurless, Barney Hutchins, Chris Koster, Michelle Koster, Ken Langford, Sharon Langford, Susan Lygrain, Al McCrumb, Anita Mennell, Jack Miner, Joe Olcheske, Rebecca Olcheske, Jane Power, Krystal Pratt, Bill Redman, Wes Robinson, Kelly Root, Sue Rose, Tim Rowse, Linda Sarver, Helga Scobey, Kerri Selleck, Jean Selleck, Rodney Selleck, Ronnie Selleck, Jeff Spencer, Matt Spencer, Jill Humphrey Steele, Rick Steele, Nathan Tagg, Dave Tripp, Jeff VanNortwick, Cindy Willshire, Leanne Winans, Ed Woodmansee, Russ Yarger www.julieforjustice.com The microscopic zoo within us by Dr. E. Kirsten Peters Taken together, the microbes living in you weigh a few pounds. Just for example, a 200-pound man could be carrying up to six pounds of little organisms in and on him. And even more amazingly to me, within our bodies we have more than 10,000 different species of microbes. That’s a lot of different life forms, all co-existing with each other and with us. Those arresting facts got my attention when scientists from the government’s Human Microbiome Project recently announced some of their research findings. My friend Dr. Phil Mixter of the School of Molecular Biosciences at Washington State University helped me digest the news of the research. A lot of the microbes you are carrying around live in your guts, some live on your skin, others up your nose. Carting around pounds worth of little “bugs” isn’t as bad as it may sound. Four out of five microbes are likely beneficial to us. Interestingly, the study found that most people have low levels of some harmful types of bacteria in them, organisms that can cause certain infections. That raises questions that motivate scientists who work in this area: what makes some people fall sick due to certain microbes while others carry them around but don’t get ill — and may even benefit from their presence? Another fun fact made clear by recent studies is that the microbes in you and me are as different as our fingerprints. You’ve got more of one microbe in you than I do, but less of another. The total “zoo” of microbes we carry around within us varies according to diet and even where we live. One way to change your internal zoo is to take antibiotics. They kill off a number of microbes. If you’re lucky, that will include any organisms making you ill, but you’ll also lose some of the “good” organisms that you harbor within you. The beneficial bacteria in your gut, for example, will likely take a direct hit. “Many microbes in the gut don’t simply co-exist with us, but are necessary for healthy digestion, metabolism and nutrition. While broad-spectrum antibiotics are useful in treating certain infections, it’s also clear such treatment can disrupt our beneficial microbes,” Mixter said. Another important point is that microbes are far from passive passengers, just riding around on us. “They are metabolically active,” Dr. Phillip Tarr of Washington University at St. Louis, one of the lead researchers who performed the study, said to the media. “We now have to reckon with them like we have to reckon with the ecosystem in a forest or a body of water.” The microbes living on and in you vary a lot by what part of your body they call home. Your guts have one flourishing community of microbes, your nose another. The recent study surveyed the microbes on specific locations in many individuals using DNA typing. Microbes are diverse on all persons and carry literally millions of microbial genes — many more than are in the genetic makeup of an individual. And some of the genes are useful to us: it looks like genes from bacteria in our intestines help lead to the digestion of certain fats and proteins. We couldn’t function well without them. “These studies have been coming for a long time,” Mixter told me. “We’re gaining more and more insight into ways certain microbes benefit humans. Microbes have a bad reputation for causing infectious disease, but it’s clear that most microbes associated with the body have beneficial effects, not harmful ones.” Research done by the National Institutes of Health is on-going and covers the whole waterfront of many different types of studies. We often take it for granted, accepting new medical treatments and technologies that are spun off from basic research without considering all of the time and resources required for scientists to make the key advances in basic knowledge that revolutionize medicine. Ours is a complicated society, but the scientific research we collectively support yields real dividends for all of us. Let’s here it for the researchers — and for the beneficial zoo of microbes in all of us. Dr. E. Kirsten Peters, a native of the rural Northwest, was trained as a geologist at Princeton and Harvard universities. Follow her online at rockdoc.wsu.edu and on Twitter @RockDocWSU. This column is a service of the College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences at Washington State University. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 2, 2012 — Page 9 LEGAL NOTICES BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY by Gerald Stein NORTH N: A 10 3 M: 10 4 2 L: Q 7 3 K: J 7 4 2 WEST EAST N: Q 6 2 M: 9 6 5 3 L: A 8 4 2 K: K 8 N: J 8 7 M: A 8 L: J 10 6 K: Q 10 9 6 5 SOUTH: N: K 9 5 4 M: K Q J 7 L: K 9 5 K: A 3 Interesting life of Mrs. I.A. Holbrook The following article was printed in the Jan. 4, 1912 Hastings Banner telling about the life Mrs. I.A. Holbrook. She resided near the courthouse square for 66 years and was the wife of a well-known pioneer attorney. ***** Mrs. Mary D. Holbrook, notice of whose death on Christmas day was published in the columns of the Banner, was the daughter of Wm. Lee Kenfield, of Old Hadley, Mass., and Mary Popple, of Rutland, Vermont, whose grandfather was one of the Boston Tea Party. They removed to Warsaw, N.Y., where Mrs. Holbrook was born May 13, 1827. In 1843, she came to Hastings with her brother, the late Hiram J. Kenfield, who had already settled here. She lived with his family at first and also taught school in the township of Carlton. Her family followed and went to live in the township of Irving, on what is now known as the Kurtz farm. The house was one of the few frame buildings in the county, and being painted red color was known and spoken of as “The Red House.” There were but few horses and no carriages at that time. Ordinary conveyance was by ox team and wagon, but, the Battle Creek road was finished and the stage line established. On the early evening of Nov. 1, 1846 in the old stagecoach recently described in the Banner, Isaac A. Holbrook, then a leading lawyer and man of affairs from northern New York, accompanied by the Rev. Zena T. Hoyt and wife, and the late Dr. John Roberts, as best man, journeyed to “The Red House,” and returned with Mrs. Holbrook, his bride. They lived in the house on West State Street, now the home of Mr. and Mrs. McCoy, until Nov. 10, 1848, when they moved into the new house built by Mr. Holbrook on the corner of Broadway and State streets where Mrs. Holbrook resided until her death, a continuous period of more than 63 years. Mr. Holbrook died there in 1875. There were nine children, one died in infancy, another in early childhood, seven grew to maturity, five now survive as follows: Edward A. of New York City; Frank H. of Muskegon; Mrs. W.B. McNaughton of Houghton; Mrs. R.A. Carnahan of Alliance, Ohio; and Miss Agnes C. Holbrook of Hastings. The township of Irving originally com- 77569687 HHHHHHH prised what is now both Irving and Rutland. When it was divided, her mother asked and was given permission to name the new township. She gave it the name “Rutland” after her hometown in Vermont. Purely as a matter of some local historical interest, it may be stated that the elaborately carved old rosewood piano, with its pearl mounted keys, whose soft-tones accompanied the beautiful song at the funeral service, was the first brought to the village and probably to the county. It was one of three of special design and workmanship, was purchased in 1855, brought by rail to Battle Creek, carted over the corduroy road to Hastings and placed in the home on the corner where it has ever since remained. Mrs. Holbrook was a lady of sterling character, of a kind and hospitable nature, very optimistic and progressive in spirit and of much executive ability. Until recent years, she was prominent in social and public affairs here. At one time, she had charge of the Mount Vernon Association in this county, under appointment of Mrs. Farnsworth, the national president, and accompanied it very successfully. Though ever delighted in recalling the early days, she lived in the present, kept pace with current events and was abreast of the time. She took price in, and was alert to whatever pertained to the welfare of our beautiful and enterprising little city, the growth of which she had witnessed from its beginning as a small hamlet reposing in the heart of the wilderness. She was a member of the Presbyterian church, retaining the same family pew from the completion of the present church edifice. She was one of 10 brothers and sisters, her husband one of like number. She was the last of them all and was also the last of the early village pioneers who came here in mature years. Her funeral services were conducted by Rev. H.H. VanAuken of Charlotte, a former pastor of the Presbyterian church here, who paid a very fine tribute to her memory. Miss Burch closed the service with the beautiful solo, “Oh, Morning Land.” Her remains were placed in the family lot in Riverside Cemetery. RE-ELECTHHHHHHH MARLENE FORMAN Carlton Township Treasurer T RE-ELEC Need wedding invitations? North Pass Pass East Pass Pass South 1NT West Pass Dealer: North Vulnerable: Both Lead: 2L For most bridge players, whether at the beginning or the experienced stage of their game, playing no trump contracts can be a formidable challenge. One experienced social bridge player told this story: “I dread playing no trump. I would rather you pulled my fingernails out with a pair of pliers than play a no trump contract.” Why all the dread and fear with no trump contracts? The next few columns will try to alleviate this dread and offer some tips to make playing no trump contracts a joy and a fun way to play bridge. In today’s hand, South has the typical no trump hand: a balanced hand of 4-4-3-2 and the requisite number of points (16). While some bridge players still use the 16-18 high card points for a no trump opener, most new players have gone to the 15-17 high card points. It doesn’t really matter much as long as your hand is a balanced hand; it is between the 15-18 high card points, and it has no voids, no singletons, and only one doubleton. Only three suits need to have stoppers as well. Count on your partner for help in the unstopped suit. South had all of the conditions for an opening bid of one no trump. With a balanced hand, only one doubleton, and 16 high card points, one no trump was the perfect bid. Her partner North with only seven high card points and a balanced hand wisely elected to pass. There definitely were not enough points for a game in no trump, and one no trump would be a challenge to make as well. One final note: do not count length or distribution when counting points for no trump bids; count only high card points. No trump contracts need all of the high cards that are available to make the bid. Adding points for length and distribution tends to distort the picture. Find another bid if you are short of the necessary points for a no trump opening bid. With the 2L as the opening lead, South took a moment to make a plan. Here is where many bridge players go wrong by calling quickly for the first card they think they want. It is much better to pause first, thank your partner for his cards, and remember your objective. What is your objective? Your objective is, of course, to make your contract of one no trump. Put it in words silently, or in your mind, that you need at least seven tricks to make your contract, and you would like to take more for overtricks, if possible. The next tip, and this is the most important part of the plan to succeed in no trump contracts, is to determine how many winners you have without giving up the lead. Count them. Winners are aces and kings if you have the aces to go with them. In this hand, how many winners do you have at first without giving up the lead? Three? That is correct. You have the AN and the KN or two; you have the AK for the third trick. After that, you will have to work to develop or setup the remaining tricks. You will need at least four more tricks to make your contract. Where is the best spot to pick up extra tricks? Look at the strong heart sequence. If you can win the three heart tricks by driving out the AM, you will have three more tricks toward your objective. Now you only need one more trick to make your contract. With the lead of the 2L, you are home free. You know the lead is from the fourth down in West’s best suit. Guess where the AL is? Right! In West’s hand. You win the diamond in your hand with the KL, and you immediately begin to work on the heart tricks by leading toward that wonderful 10M that your partner North has provided. East might duck the AM at first, but it doesn’t really matter. You just keep going after those heart tricks until they are set up. As it turns out, East takes the AM immediately and leads a club which you duck, and West wins with the KK. Back comes a club, and you win the trick with the AK in your hand. Play the good hearts for the three set-up-tricks, and then since you know where the AL is, lead a small diamond toward your QL. If West wants the trick, he will take his AL; otherwise, you confidently play the QL for a finesse, and it wins. You will win eight tricks on this hand: 2 diamond tricks; 2 spade tricks; three heart tricks; and one club trick for a successful no trump contract, making one overtrick. With smiles all around, you accept the congratulations of your partner, and you prepare to play your next hand. Maybe it will be another no trump hand! Good luck in no trump. ***** Bridge question for this week: Did you notice that the East-West opponents also have balanced hands, and that there is no way for them to compete? In fact, how can South get another overtrick on this hand? Hint: Look carefully at the spades. ***** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) Paid for by the Committee to Re-Elect Marlene Forman, 3415 N. Charlton Park Rd., Hastings, MI 49058 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Richard Marshall aka Richard A. Marshall and Kelly Marshall, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, Inc., Mortgagee, dated September 30, 2003, and recorded on October 3, 2003 in instrument 1114814, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Forty Thousand Six Hundred Seventy-Four and 80/100 Dollars ($140,674.80). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 16, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 79 of Boulder Creek Estates, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats on Page 23. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #251147F04 77569434 (07-19)(08-09) City of Hastings NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that the Zoning Board of Appeals of the City of Hastings will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, August 21, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. The purpose of the Public Hearing is for the Zoning Board of Appeals to hear comments and make a determination on a variance request by owner, Henry Yarbrough, 117 East Walnut Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. The applicant has requested a variance from Section 90314 (1) (a) of the City of Hastings Code of Ordinances that, if granted, would allow construction of a dwelling with a lot area less than the minimum 8,000 square feet. Legal description of said property is: CITY OF HASTINGS S 2/3 LOT 897 AND E 10 FT. OF S 2/3 LOT 898 Written comments will be received on the above request at Hastings City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 until 5:00 PM on the date of the hearing. Requests for information and/or minutes of said hearing should be directed to the Hastings City Clerk at the same address. The City will provide necessary reasonable aids and services upon five days notice to Hastings City Clerk (269-9452468) or TDD call relay services 1-800-649-3777. Thomas E. Emery City Clerk 77569795 Area Locations to purchase the Hastings Banner! Hastings: One Stop Shop (BP) (M-43 North) Tom’s Market Superette Family Fare One Stop Food (BP) (M-37 South) Hastings Speedy Mart (Shell) Bosley Admiral Penn-Nook Gift Shop P.B. Gas Station (W. State St.) BP Gas Station (M-37 West) Xpress Mart Family Fare Gas Station Woody’s General Store Middleville: Speedway Middleville Marketplace Greg’s Get-It-N-Go Shell Cloverdale: Cloverdale General Brown’s Cedar Creek Grocery Gun Lake: Sam’s Gourmet Foods Gun Lake Amoco Gun Lake Shell Delton: Felpausch Michigan Short Stop Shell Banfield: Banfield General Store Orangeville: Orangeville Fast Stop Lacey: Clyde’s Sportsman Post Pine Lake: Pine Lake Grocery Dowling: Goldsworthys Dowling General Store Prairieville: Prairieville Fast Stop Woodland: Woodland Express Nashville: Trading Post Little’s Country Store Shell MV Pharmacy Nashville C Store Carl’s Lake Odessa: Lake-O-Express Lake-O-Mart Shell Carl’s Freeport: L & J’s Freeport Milling Shelbyville: Weick’s Food Town The Store at Southshore 77566089 Stop by and check out the large selection at: Printing Plus 1351 N. M-43 Hwy., Hastings by Gerald Stein Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Michael Pifer, a single man and Jacqulyn Tompkins, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, Mortgagee, dated June 18, 2007, and recorded on June 20, 2007 in instrument 1181982, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-One Thousand Five Hundred Ninety-Four and 59/100 Dollars ($131,594.59). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 9, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 30 of Sandy Knolls Plat No. 2 according to the Plat thereof recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 94 of Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #405666F01 (07-12)(08-02) 77569357 �Page 10 — Thursday, August 2, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate to Robert Gregg Rosenberg. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The aforesaid Estate of Robert Gregg Rosenberg, who lived at 11099 Long Point Drive, Plainwell, Michigan 49080 and died June 12, 2009. Creditors of the Estate are notified that all claims against the Estate will be forever barred unless presented to Brian Bleeker, named Personal Representative at PO Box 145, Martin, Michigan 49070 within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: July 31, 2012 Brian Bleeker Personal Representative PO Box 145 Martin, MI 49070 77569831 269-672-5228 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Steven F Meyers, a married man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated December 6, 2007, and recorded on December 10, 2007 in instrument 200712100005034, and modified by agreement dated May 4, 2010, and recorded on June 25, 2010 in instrument 201006250006087, and assigned by said Mortgagee to MidFirst Bank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Five Thousand Three Hundred Twenty-Eight and 14/100 Dollars ($75,328.14). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 30, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North 1/2 of Lot 1099 of the City, formerly Village of Hastings according to the recorded Plat thereof recorded in Liber A, Page 1 of Barry County Records and the West 4 rods to Lot 3, Block 20 Eastern Addition according to the Plat thereof recorded in Liber A of Plats, Page 2 of Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 2, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #402824F01 77569801 (08-02)(08-23) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Robert A Caldwell and Shawn M Caldwell, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Broadmoor Financial Services, Inc., Mortgagee, dated May 28, 2002, and recorded on June 4, 2002 in instrument 1081605, and assigned by mesne assignments to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Seven Thousand Six Hundred Ninety-Six and 24/100 Dollars ($87,696.24). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 9, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the center of Section 6, Town 2 North, Range 7 West; thence East 627 feet; thence South 66 feet; thence South 37 degrees West 300 feet; thence South 30 degrees 28 minutes West 381 feet; thence South 22 degrees 12 minutes West 40 feet; thence North 86 degrees 7 minutes West 297.3 feet to the center of Morgan Road; thence follow the center of Morgan Road North 28 degrees 59 minutes East 118 feet; thence North 01 degrees 21 minutes East 536.1 feet to the place of beginning, except the North 412 feet thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #405283F01 77569236 (07-12)(08-02) STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate Estate of Lyndia Kay Crawford. Date of birth: 215-47. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Lyndia Kay Crawford, died June 17, 2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Michael Champion, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 5080 Wallingford Dr., Comstock Park and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: July 24, 2012 Michael Champion 5080 Wallingford Dr. Comstock Park, MI 49321 616-784-3775 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY PUBLICATION OF NOTICE OF HEARING FILE NO. 12-26132NC In the matter of Carol Liane Polich. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS including: whose address(es) are unknown and whose interest in the matter may be barred or affected by the following: TAKE NOTICE: A hearing will be held on 8/15/2012 at 3:00 pm at 206 W. Court St., Suite 302 before Judge William M. Doherty 41960 for the following purpose: Petition to change name from Carol Liane Polich to Carol Liane Balkon. Date: 07/25/2012 Carol Polich 10470 Cottonwood Dr. Middleville, MI 49333 (269) 838-9276 77569719 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY PUBLICATION OF NOTICE OF HEARING FILE NO. 12026148 NC In the matter of JAELYNN MARIE PURDUM. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS including: whose address(es) are unknown and whose interest in the matter may be barred or affected by the following: TAKE NOTICE: A hearing will be held on 08/08/2012 at 3:00 P.M. at 3RD FLOOR COURTS AND LAW BUILDING before Judge William M. Doherty 41960 for the following purpose: PETITION TO CHANGE NAME from Jaelynn Marie Purdum to Jaelynn Marie Koning. Date: 07/26/2012 FRED AND COLLEEN KONING 804 N. GLENWOOD DR. HASTINGS, MI 49058 77569815 (269) 838-6347 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Betty A May A Single Woman, original mortgagor(s), to National City Mortgage Services Co, Mortgagee, dated July 15, 2004, and recorded on July 16, 2004 in instrument 1130923, in Barry county records, Michigan, and assigned by mesne assignments to PNC Bank, National Association as assignee, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Forty-Six Thousand Forty-Two and 43/100 Dollars ($46,042.43). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 23, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 66 of Steven's Wooded Acres, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 4 or Plats, Page 31 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #394409F02 77569631 (07-26)(08-16) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Paul B. Fifelski and Karen Fifelski, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated November 20, 2009, and recorded on December 1, 2009 in instrument 200912010011617, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Three Thousand Four Hundred Fifty-Two and 92/100 Dollars ($83,452.92). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 16, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 38 of Middleville Down No. 2 to the Village of Middleville, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats on page 13, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #403961F01 77569429 (07-19)(08-09) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Matthew Schultz and Nicole Schultz, husband and wife as joint tenants, original mortgagor(s), to Arbor Mortgage, Mortgagee, dated December 16, 2005, and recorded on January 3, 2006 in instrument 1158410, and assigned by mesne assignments to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Seventy-Eight Thousand Eight Hundred Seventy-Seven and 87/100 Dollars ($178,877.87). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 23, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North 375 feet of the East 850 feet of the South 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 23, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, Irving Township, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #281531F03 77569542 (07-26)(08-16) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Barry Wilson and Albrey Wilson, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 25, 2008, and recorded on February 22, 2008 in instrument 20080222-0001662, and modified by agreement dated November 9, 2010, and recorded on December 9, 2010 in instrument 201012090011514, and assigned by said Mortgagee to EverBank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Six Thousand One Hundred Seven and 61/100 Dollars ($76,107.61). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 30, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 229, City of Hastings Barry County, Michigan as recorded in Liber A Page 1, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 2, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #406482F01 77569722 (08-02)(08-23) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Clifton W. Blauvelt and Patricia A. Blauvelt, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Option One Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated November 6, 2006, and recorded on November 13, 2006 in instrument 1172659, and assigned by said Mortgagee to H & R Block Bank, a Federal Savings Bank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thousand Eight Hundred Eighty and 36/100 Dollars ($100,880.36). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 9, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Part of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 17, Town 2 North, Range 10 West, Orangeville Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Beginning at a point 332 feet East of the Southwest corner of said Section; thence East 178 feet; thence North 320 feet; thence West 178 feet; thence South 320 feet to the point of beginning The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #405929F01 77569242 (07-12)(08-02) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Charles N. Teunessen and Shannon L. Teunessen, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Wells Fargo Bank, NA, Mortgagee, dated March 26, 2007, and recorded on April 2, 2007 in instrument 1178197, in Barry county records, Michigan, and assigned by said Mortgagee to HSBC Bank USA, National Association as Trustee for Wells Fargo Asset Securities Corporation, Mortgage Asset-BackedPass-Through Certificates Series 2007-PA2 as assignee, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ninety Thousand Four Hundred Sixty-Six and 66/100 Dollars ($190,466.66). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 23, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel 3: Commencing at the West 1/4 Post of Section 3, Town 2 North, Range 9 West; thence South 00 degrees 00 minutes 02 seconds West 995.29 feet along the West line of Section 3; thence South 87 degrees 28 minutes 31 seconds East 1924.87 feet along the North line of the South 100 Acres of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 3 for the true Place of Beginning; thence North 00 degrees 00 minutes 02 seconds East 340.00 feet; thence South 87 degrees 28 minutes 31 seconds East 206.00 feet; thence South 00 degrees 00 degrees 00 seconds 02 minutes West 340.00 feet to said North line of 100 Acres; thence North 87 degrees 28 minutes 31 seconds West 206.00 feet along the centerline of Anders Road to the Place of Beginning. Subject to highway right of way over the Southerly 33 feet thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #407014F01 77569536 (07-26)(08-16) FORECLOSURE NOTICE THIS IS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE Default has occurred in a Mortgage made on November 29, 2010 by Jerry D. Ray and Josie P. Ray, Mortgagor, to Hastings City Bank, a Michigan corporation, as Mortgagee. The Mortgage was recorded on December 6, 2010 in the Office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan in Instrument No. 201012060011368. At the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due and unpaid on the Mortgage the sum of NinetyTwo Thousand Six Hundred Seventeen and 26/100 Dollars ($92,617.26), including interest at 3.875% per annum. No suit or proceedings have been instituted to recover any part of the debt secured by the Mortgage, and the power of sale contained in the Mortgage has become operative by reason of such default. On Thursday, August 30, 2012, at one o'clock in the afternoon at the east steps of the Barry County Courthouse, 220 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan, which is the place for holding mortgage sales for Barry County, Michigan, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder, at public sale, for the purpose of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid upon the Mortgage, together with the legal costs and charges of sale, including attorneys' fees allowed by law, the property located in the Township of Rutland, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and described in the Mortgage as follows: A parcel of land in the Southeast 1/4 of Section 13, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, Rutland Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as beginning at a point on the south line of said Section 13 which lies South 89 degrees 13’ 30” West 395.70 feet from the Southeast corner of said Section 13; thence South 89 degrees 13’ 30” West 239.30 feet; thence due North 256.18 feet; thence South 89 degrees 56’ East 223.83 feet; thence South 13 degrees 02’ 40” East 67.77 feet; thence due South 186.57 feet to the point of beginning. Including rights of ingress and egress to said premises from Cook Road. More commonly known as 985 Arthur Court, Hastings, Michigan 49058 The redemption period shall be six months from the date of the sale unless the property is deemed abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a in which case the redemption period shall be thirty days after the foreclosure sale or when the time to provide the notice required by subdivision MCL 600.3241a(c) expires, whichever is later. MILLER JOHNSON Attorneys for Hastings City Bank /s/ Rachel J. Foster Dated: July 24, 2012 By: Rachel J. Foster 303 North Rose Street, Suite 600 Kalamazoo, Michigan 49007 77569677 269-226-2982 FORECLOSURE NOTICE RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES, P.C. MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. Mortgage Sale - Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by Anthony Moore a single man to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., acting solely as nominee for Advantage Lending Corp., Mortgagee, dated October 5, 2009, and recorded on October 7, 2009, as Document Number: 200910130010098, Barry County Records, said mortgage was assigned to Bank of America, N.A. as successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP fka Counrtywide Home Loans Servicing, LP by an Assignment of Mortgage dated September 29, 2011 and recorded October 13, 2011 by Document Number: 201110130009601, , on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Two Thousand Two Hundred Ten and 40/100 ($72,210.40) including interest at the rate of 5.75000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the Circuit Court in said Barry County, where the premises to be sold or some part of them are situated, at 01:00 PM on August 9, 2012 Said premises are situated in the Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: LOT NUMBER 48 OF THE LAPHAMS AIRPORT LOTS, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF, AS RECORDED IN LIBER 3 OF PLATS ON PAGE 100, AND LOT 49 OF THE LAPHAMS AIRPORT LOTS NUMBER 2, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF, AS RECORDED IN LIBER 5 OF PLATS, ON PAGE 87. Commonly known as: 6009 MARSH RD If the property is eventually sold at foreclosure sale, the redemption period will be 6.00 months from the date of sale unless the property is abandoned or used for agricultural purposes. If the property is determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 and/or 600.3241a, the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of sale, or 15 days after statutory notice, whichever is later. If the property is presumed to be used for agricultural purposes prior to the date of the foreclosure sale pursuant to MCL 600.3240, the redemption period is 1 year. Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages are, if any, limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: July 12, 2012 Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Bank of America, N.A. as successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP fka Counrtywide Home Loans Servicing, LP 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302, (248) 335-9200 Case No. 77569384 12MI01744-1 (07-12)(08-02) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 2, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTIFY (248) 362-6100 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by Robert A. Przybysz, Barbara J. Przybysz, Husband and Wife of Barry County, Michigan, Mortgagor to The Huntington Mortgage Company dated the 5th day of February, 1999, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, for the County of Barry and State of Michigan, on the 26th day of February, 1999, in Instrument No. 1025778 of Barry Records, which said mortgage was assigned to The Huntington National Bank, thru mesne assignments, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, for principal of $171,373.10 (one hundred seventy-one thousand three hundred seventythree and 10/100) plus accrued interest at 3.00% (three point zero zero) percent per annum. And no suit proceedings at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to the statue of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on, the 23rd day of August, 2012, at 1:00:00 PM said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI, Barry County, Michigan, of the premises described in said mortgage. Which said premises are described as follows: All that certain piece or parcel of land situate in the Township of Orangeville, in the County of Barry and State of Michigan and described as follows to wit: Situated in the Township of Orangeville, County of Barry and State of Michigan: Lot 4, and the East 40 feet of Lots 30, 33 and 41 of Wildwood Plat, according to the recorded plat thereof as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 60. Commonly known as: 10964 Anchor Cove Dr Tax Parcel No.: 11-145-007-00 (Lot 4) and 11-145-002-00 (E. 40 ft Lots 30, 33 and 41) The redemption period shall be six months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Dated: July 26, 2012 By: Foreclosing Attorneys Attorney for Plaintiff Weltman, Weinberg & Reis Co., L.P.A. 2155 Butterfield Drive, Suite 200-S Troy, MI 48084 77569711 WWR# 10095350 (07-26)(08-16) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Gregory R. Price and Tricia Price, husband and wife, as joint tenants with full rights of survivorship, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lenders successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated December 23, 2005 and recorded February 24, 2006 in Instrument Number 1160524, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Citibank, N.A., as Trustee for Bear Stearns Asset Backed Securities I Trust 2006-HE3, Asset Backed-Certificates, Series 2006HE3 by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred ThirtyThree Thousand Nine Hundred Forty-One and 35/100 Dollars ($133,941.35) including interest at 5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 08/23/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Woodland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Township of Woodland, County of Barry, Michigan: Lot 37 of McLenithan Subdivision, according to the recorded Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 44, also, commencing at the Southeast corner of Lot 37 of McLenithan's Subdivision, according to the recorded Plat thereof; thence Southwesterly 17 feet; thence Northwesterly 50 feet parallel to the Southwest of said Lot 37; thence Northeasterly 17 feet to the Southwest corner of Lot 37; thence Southeasterly along the Southwest side of said Lot 37 to the place of beginning, being in the Southwest 1/4 of Section 4, Town 4 North, Range 7 West. Also, Lot 38 of McLenithan's Subdivision, Jordan Lake, according to the recorded plat thereof. Also, commencing at the Southeast corner of Lot 38 McLenithan's Subdivision, according to the recorded Plat thereof; thence Southwesterly 17 feet; thence Northwesterly 45 feet parallel to the Southwest side of said Lot 38; thence Northeasterly 17 feet to the Southwest corner of Lot 38; thence Southeasterly along the Southwest side of said Lot 38 to the place of beginning, All being in the Southwest 1/4 of Section 4, Town 4 North, Range 7 West. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: July 26, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 199.5052 77569706 (07-26)(08-16) AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTIFY US AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by Tammy Rose Dull And Steven John Paul Claypool, A single woman and A single man , Mortgagors, to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., Mortgagee, dated the 9th day of June, 2010 and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, for The County of Barry and State of Michigan, on the 22nd day of June, 2010 in Liber INSTRUMENT # 201006220006032 of Barry County Records, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, the sum of One Hundred Three Thousand Two Hundred Thirty Seven And 31/100 ($103237.31), and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on the 9th day of August, 2012 at 1:00 PM o’clock Local Time, said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI (that being the building where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held), of the premises described in said mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due, as aforesaid on said mortgage, with interest thereon at 5.5% per annum and all legal costs, charges, and expenses, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sum or sums which may be paid by the undersigned, necessary to protect its interest in the premises. Which said premises are described as follows: All that certain piece or parcel of land, including any and all structures, and homes, manufactured or otherwise, located thereon, situated in the Township of Rutland, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and described as follows, to wit: LOT 344 AND THE NORTHWEST 1/2 OF LOT 343 OF ALGONQUIN LAKE PROPERTIES UNIT NO. 2 ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF IN LIBER 2 ON PAGE 63 AND THE NORTHWESTERLY 1/2 OF LOT 343 BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS COMMENCING AT THE CORNER COMMON TO LOTS 343 AND 344 OF OTTAWA TRAIL; THENCE SOUTHEASTERLY ON THE LINE OF LOT 343, A DISTANCE OF 25 FEET; THENCE SOUTHWESTERLY PARALLELL TO THE LINE OF LOTS 344 AND 343 TO THE LOT LINE; THENCE NORTHWESTERLY ALONG THE LINE OF LOT 343 AND 344, 125.8 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. During the six (6) months immediately following the sale, the property may be redeemed, except that in the event that the property is determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241a, the property may be redeemed during 30 days immediately following the sale. Pursuant to MCLA 600.3278, the mortgagor(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 7/12/2012 JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Mortgagee FABRIZIO & BROOK, P.C. Attorney for JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. 888 W. Big Beaver, Suite 800 Troy, Ml 48084 248-362-2600 CHASE FARM GNMA DULL 77569379 (07-12)(08-02) FORECLOSURE NOTICE RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES, P.C. MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. Mortgage Sale - Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by MIKE KENYON, HUSBAND AND WIFE AS JOINT TENANTS, AND LINDA KENYON, HUSBAND AND WIFE, AS JOINT TENANTS to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. acting solely as a nominee for America`s Wholesale Lender, Mortgagee, dated November 15, 2005, and recorded on November 23, 2005, as Document Number: 1156700, Barry County Records, said mortgage was assigned to THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-17 by an Assignment of Mortgage dated October 07, 2011 and recorded October 24, 2011 by Document Number: 201110240009977, , on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Fifty-Five Thousand Nine Hundred Eighty-Five and 32/100 ($55,985.32) including interest at the rate of 4.55000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the Circuit Court in said Barry County, where the premises to be sold or some part of them are situated, at 01:00 PM on August 9, 2012 Said premises are situated in the Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 53 of O.A. Phillips Addition to Village of Nashville, County of Barry, State of Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof. Commonly known as: 315 CLEVELAND If the property is eventually sold at foreclosure sale, the redemption period will be 6.00 months from the date of sale unless the property is abandoned or used for agricultural purposes. If the property is determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 and/or 600.3241a, the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of sale, or 15 days after statutory notice, whichever is later. If the property is presumed to be used for agricultural purposes prior to the date of the foreclosure sale pursuant to MCL 600.3240, the redemption period is 1 year. Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages are, if any, limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: July 12, 2012 Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-17 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302, (248) 335-9200 Case No. 12MI02107-1 77569389 (07-12)(08-02) THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. MORTGAGE SALE--Default has been made in the conditions of a Mortgage made by CHRISTINE R. VANKAMPEN, a single woman, Mortgagor, to NPB MORTGAGE, LLC, Mortgagee, dated June 10, 2002, and recorded June 20, 2002, Instrument Number 1082541, of Barry County Records, Michigan, which mortgage was assigned by mesne assignments to First National Acceptance Company, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due as of the date of this notice $11,946.71, including interest at 11.95% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to the statutes of the State of Michigan, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public auction to the highest bidder, on Thursday, August 9, 2012, at 1 o’clock in the afternoon, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, Michigan. Said premises are situated in the Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Beginning 310.57 feet North of the NW corner of Lot 9 of Sam Bravata Plat; thence West 170.96 feet; thence North 00 degrees 33’ West 127.25 feet along the West line of the property described in the deed recorded in Liber 244, Page 407; thence South 67 degrees 39’ East (previously described as South 65 degrees 55’ East) 168 feet; thence South 70 degrees 06’47” East (previously described as South 68 degrees 23 minutes East) 17.86 feet; thence South 57.30 feet to the place of beginning.; c/k/a 4726 Princess Dr., Shelbyville, MI 49344 The redemption period shall be six months from the date of the sale, unless the premises are determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days. Please be advised that if the mortgaged property is sold at a foreclosure sale by advertisement, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 you will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale, or to the mortgage holder, for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 12, 2012 LeVasseur Dyer & Associates, PC Attorneys for Mortgagee P.O. Box 721400 Berkley, 77569342 MI 48072 (248) 586-1200 (07-12)(08-02) STATE OF MICHIGAN 56B JUDICIAL DISTRICT JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY PROBATE ORDER FOR SERVICE BY PUBLICATION/POSTING AND NOTICE OF ACTION CASE NO. 12-0899-SP Court Address: 206 W. Court St., Hastings, MI 49058 Court Telephone No. (269) 945-1404 Plaintiff GRAND BANK FOR SAVINGS, FSB Stephanie C. Kamykowski, (P74223) Trott & Trott P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy., #200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 (248) 341-4772 v ROBIN L. ALLEN a/k/a ROBIN PETERS All Occupants 10660 Maple Grove Rd. Nashville, MI 49073 TO: ROBIN L. ALLEN a/k/a ROBIN PETERS IT IS ORDERED: You are being sued in this county by the plaintiff to Recover possession of property after Land Contract Forfeiture. You must file you answer or take other action permitted by law in this court. If you fail to do so, a default judgment may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint filed in this case. A copy of this order shall be published once each week in Hastings Banner for three consecutive weeks, and proof of publication shall be filed in this court. Rick E. Risk shall post a copy of this order in the courthouse, and at 10660 Maple Grove Rd., Nashville, MI 49073 and at The Dayton Tennessee City Court - 399 1st Avenue, Dayton, TN 37321 for once a week for 3 weeks, and shall file proof of posting in this court. A copy of this order shall be sent to Robin L. Allen, a/k/a Robin Peters, at the last-known address by registered mail, return receipt requested, before the date of the last publication, and the affidavit of mailing shall be filed with this court. Date: July 9, 2012 77569811 Judge Michael L. Schipper P42154 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Danny R. Daugherty, A Single Person, original mortgagor(s), to National Bank of Hastings, Mortgagee, dated November 1, 2002, and recorded on November 23, 2002 in instrument 1092225, and assigned by said Mortgagee to PHH Mortgage Corporation as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-One Thousand Three Hundred FortyFive and 09/100 Dollars ($61,345.09). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 9, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The South 50 feet of Lots 36 and 37 and the North 32 feet of vacated Lincoln Street of Kelly's Addition No. 1, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 94. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 12, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #406008F01 77569349 (07-12)(08-02) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Matthew J. Thompson, a marred man Leah M. Thompson, spouse, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated May 24, 2006, and recorded on June 6, 2006 in instrument 1165663, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eighty-Two Thousand One Hundred Seventy-Four and 24/100 Dollars ($182,174.24). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 16, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 19 of Brookfield Acres, according to the recorded Plat thereof, being part of the North 1/2 Section 29, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, Hastings Township, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #405661F01 (07-19)(08-09) 77569374 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Dale Krueger Jr., a married man and Frances Krueger, his wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated January 19, 2007 and recorded February 8, 2007 in Instrument Number 1176188, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Bank of America, N.A., as successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. FKA Countrywide Home Loans Servicing L.P by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ninety-Eight Thousand Four and 17/100 Dollars ($198,004.17) including interest at 4.625% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 08/09/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Real property in the Township of Thornapple, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and is described as follows; Lot 6, Thornapple Bends Estates, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats, Page 35. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: July 12, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 285.6471 (07-12)(08-02) 77569399 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Allan Snyder and Kathleen Snyder husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, Mortgagee, dated June 30, 2008, and recorded on July 10, 2008 in instrument 200807100007074, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Four Thousand Four Hundred Twenty-Seven and 27/100 Dollars ($64,427.27). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 23, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North one-half of Lots 607 and 608 of the City of Hastings, according to the plat thereof The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #407031F01 77569518 (07-26)(08-16) NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT; ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY SERVICE PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW. Notice under MCL 600.3278: Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale under MCL 600.3201 et. seq., the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. ATTENTION POTENTIAL PURCHASERS AT FORECLOSURE SALE: In the case of resolution prior to or simultaneously with the aforementioned foreclosure sale, U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate Trust 1998-7, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents may rescind this sale at any time prior to the end of the redemption period. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited to the return of your bid amount tendered at the sale, plus interest. Default having occurred in the conditions of a Mortgage made by Boyd J. Tobias, unmarried ("Mortgagor") to Green Tree Servicing LLC (f/k/a Green Tree Financial Servicing Corporation), dated June 11, 1998, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry in the State of Michigan on June 16, 1998, in Document Number 1013602, et. seq., said Mortgage being last assigned to U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate Trust 1998-7 ("Green Tree"), by Mortgage Assignment dated July 3, 2012, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry in the State of Michigan on July 11, 2012, in Document Number 2012-002080, et. seq., on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due as of the date of this Notice the sum of $84,112.67, which amount may or may not be the entire indebtedness owed by Debtors to Green Tree together with interest at 8.75 percent per annum. NOW THEREFORE, Notice is hereby given that the power of sale contained in said Mortgage has become operative and that pursuant to that power of sale and MCL 600.3201 et. seq., on September 6, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., on the East steps of the Circuit Court Building in Hastings, Michigan, that being the place for holding the Circuit Court and/or for conducting such foreclosure sales for the County of Barry, there will be offered at public sale, the premises, or some part thereof, described in said Mortgage as follows, to-wit: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF CARLTON, COUNTY OF BARRY, STATE OF MICHIGAN, IS DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: PARCEL 2: BEGINNING AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF THE SOUTHEAST 1/4 OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 32, TOWN 4 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST; THENCE NORTH, 17 FEET ALONG THE EAST 1/8 LINE; THENCE EAST 318 FEET PARALLEL WITH THE EAST AND WEST 1/4 LINE OF SECTION 32; THENCE SOUTH 137 FEET; THENCE WEST 318 FEET TO THE EAST 1/8 LINE; THENCE NORTH 120 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. SUBJECT TO AND TOGETHER WITH RIGHTS OF INGRESS AND EGRESS IN A PRIVATE EASEMENT 66 FEET IN WIDTH ACROSS THE NORTH SIDE OF ABOVE DESCRIBED PARCEL, THE SOUTH LINE OF WHICH IS COINCIDENT WITH THE NORTH LINE OF SAID PARCEL. which also includes any interest Green Tree may have in the 1997 Redman Mobile Home, Serial Number 143T0381. The redemption period shall be six (6) months unless the property is established to be abandoned pursuant to MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of sale or fifteen (15) days from the date the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(b) was posted and mailed, or unless under MCL 600.3240(17), prior to the foreclosure sale the borrower follows the procedure set forth in that section to establish the presumption that the property is used for Agricultural purposes, in which case the redemption period shall be one (1) year from the date of the sale. Dated: July 27, 2012 U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate Trust 19987, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents By: DONALD A. BRANDT (P30183) BRANDT, FISHER, ALWARD & PEZZETTI, P.C. Attorneys for Green Tree 1241 E. Eighth Street, P.O. Box 5817 Traverse City, Michigan 49696-5817 (231) 941-9660 File No.: 6140.1134 Ad #34618 77569806 08/02, 08/09, 08/16, 08/23/2012 �Page 12 — Thursday, August 2, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 Help Wanted For Sale Garage Sale AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 HUGE GARAGE SALE: August 3rd & 4th Friday 8am-4pm, Saturday 8am1pm. Clothing, kids stuff, tools, lots of misc. 5582 Henry Rd., Hastings ELIMINATE YOUR HEATING bills. Outdoor Wood Furnace from Central Boiler. D2 Outdoor Wood Boilers, 616-877-4081. SAFE WOOD HEAT- Remove fire hazard, smoke & dirt from hoe. Central Boiler Classic Outdoor Wood Furnace with 25 warranty. Great summer sale. Call SOS your “Stocking Dealer” Dutton, MI (616)554-8669 or (616)915-5061. Estate Sale ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. Lawn & Garden AQUATIC PLANTS: OUR Lotus & Water Lilies are ready! Also Koi & Goldfish, pumps, filters & pond supplies. APOLS WATER GARDENS, 9340 Kalamazoo, Caledonia MI. (616)6981030 M-F 9:00-5:30, Sat 9:002:00. Garage Sale ANNUAL NEIGHBORHOOD BLOCK SALE! These sales are worth the drive. Maps available at these locations. August 3rd & 4th, 9am-? Friday only 1550 Bowler Rd. All other sales Friday & Saturday. 1424 Barber Rd. 1824 Barber Rd.- Lots of items for mennuts, bolts, etc. misc. pieces of Fiestaware, many misc. items. 2851 Barber Rd. 2122 Coats Grove Rd.- Collectables, crocks, games, chairs & lots of misc. 2400 Coats Grove Rd. 1763 Becker Rd.Moving sale: Western decor, saddles, antiques, furniture, fencing & more. 2775 Coats Grove Rd. 2590 Ragla Rd.3HP Evinrude boat motor, Reese hitch, closet bifold doors (new still in box), assorted shop micrometers, furniture, household items, assorted clothes sizes boys 45, girls 6-6X to womens plus size & big mens. Something for everyone! 2715 Ragla Rd.- 5 families at this sale! Log head, foot board Queen, kitchen items, ice fishing 2 person shanty, pool ladder, vacuum, 2 person hydroslide raft, kids toys- Polly Pockets, Barbies and more, doll house, board games, swingset, mens clothing (L), girls clothing (6X-12) lots of womens clothing. Used golf balls. So much more to mention all! Make sure to mark your calendar! Still going through closets. 3401 Ragla Rd.- 1994 6hp Troybilt rototiller (runs good) 8-4’ fluorescent lights, rough sawn walnut lumber, household items & misc. items. 3337 N. Charlton Park Rd.- 3 wheel bicycle, dishes, wicker loveseat, old tins, household items, crafts, old & new Christmas stuff, big mens clothes, teen clothes & ladies 2X-3X. 4176 Barnum Rd.Lots of furniture, file cabinets, home school books, household items. 3691 Andrus Rd. & 2011 Bowler Rd. DRIVERS: REGIONAL & OTR. .38cpm Regional, .35cpm OTR. Avg. 20002200mi/week. .01cpm Safety Bonus & .02cpm CSA Bonus. Weekly Pay. Home 2wknds/mo. Jaime/Eric MULTI-FAMILY GARAGE 563-579-3421 or 888-912SALE: 626 E. Charles St. 7342. Electric washer & dryer, plus DRIVER: size clothing & home goods. PART-TIME Friday 9am-5pm Saturday GREAT FOR RETIREE OR SOMEONE LOOKING 8am-2pm. FOR PART-TIME WORK!! MANPOWER of Hastings is Automotive currently accepting applicaRICK TAYLOR’S DETAIL tions for a driving position. WORKS. The only professio- Will require travel between nal detail service. Call Hastings an Grand Rapids. (269)948-0958. Hours will be between 15-30 per week. MUST have curUSED BATTERY SALE! rent chauffers license & DOT 90 day warranty $20 exmedical card. Pay will range change plus tax. Used vehi- between $9.00-$10.60 based cles for sale. Go to: on experience. An updated gogoautoparts.com resume with relevant skills GoGo Auto Parts is required for consideration. 7700 Kingsbury Rd. Delton Please contact MANPOWER (269)623-2775 for further details...(269)9483000 EOE. National Ads ATTN: LOCAL PEOPLE needed to work from home online. $500-$4500 per month. Please call 1-888-6724954. VARIOUS FACTORY/INDUSTRIAL POSITIONS IN SE GRAND RAPIDS: MANPOWER of Hastings is currently accepting applications for positions in the SE Grand Rapids area. Qualified applicants MUST have manufacturing/industrial background, no felony convictions that are less than 10 years old and none that are drug related or violent in nature and must be a Michigan resident for at least the past 7 years. Some positions do require heavy lifting. No high school diploma required. All shifts available! Pay ranges from $10-$10.25 depending on shift. Please contact MANPOWER for further details...(269)9483000 EOE. THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is deceptive, fraudulent or might otherwise violate law or accepted standards of taste. However, this publication does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the quality of goods or services advertised. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made in any advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you ask for money WELD/PRESS OPERAin advance of delivery of TORS: MANPOWER of goods or services advertised. Hastings is currently reviewing resumes for positions in Business Services the Middleville area. ExperiBASEMENT WATER- ence with weld or machine PROOFING: PROFESSIO- operation is a MUST. MajoriNAL BASEMENT SERV- ty of hiring is on 3rd shift. ICES waterproofing, crack Qualified candidates must repair, mold remediation. also pass a drug screen preLocal/licensed. Free esti- employment physical and have stable/steady work mates. (517)290-5556. history. Pay starts at $10.00. An updated resume is reBOOKKEEPING quired for consideration. SERVICES Please contact MANPOWER Personal * Self-Employed * for further details...(269)948Small Business Payroll * Billing Accounts Receivable 3000 EOE. * Accounts Payable General Ledger Recreation Weekly * Monthly * QuarWANTED HUNTING terly * Annually LAND: (2) Families are inCall today! (269)420-5714 terested in leasing acreage ROY HALL’S AUTO & for this years deer season. BOATDETAILING: 25 Call (269)795-3049 years serving Barry County, (269)948-8377. For Rent Real Estate ACREAGE: 70 ACRES rolling, wooded and beautiful. Great location to build custom home or cabin. Great price $280,000. Call Bill Sikkema 269-488-0576, Prudential Preferred, Realtors. Help Wanted 25 DRIVER TRAINEES Needed NOW! Become a driver for Schneider National! Earn $750 per week! No experience needed! Local CDL Training! Job ready in 15 days! 1-877-649-2697. PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 3 BEDROOM 2 bath home. fully furnished. No pets, no smoking. Delton Schools on Wall Lake, September thru June. $875 per month plus utilities. (517)749-1851 OFFICE SPACE for rent, 750 sq.ft. at 207 E. Mill Street. Private parking. (269)9488463. Jobs Wanted NO FEE HAUL AWAY. Unwanted appliances, scrap metal, automobiles and mobile home tear down. (269)605-7905. YOU WANT QUALITY at affordable prices when you buy printing. Call J-Ad Graphics for everything from business cards and brochures to newspapers and catalogs. Phone (269)945-9554 or stop in at 1351 N. M-43 Hwy., Hastings. Middleville property owner warns village against buying land at tax sale by Julie Makarewicz Staff Writer Robert Klinge sent a message to Middleville Village Council members this week: Try to buy his property and he will sue the village and each individual member of the council. Klinge is the former owner of Bob’s Engine Hospital at 307 Arlington. Village council members have expressed interest in purchasing the property from the county through a tax foreclosure sale. The village is able to purchase the property for the amount of back taxes owed and can do so before the site goes to public auction. But Klinge told council members they had better take a step back. “This shall serve as fair and constructive notice and caveat to each of you of the following conditions related to the subject property,” Klinge wrote in his letter. He said the land is protected by a federal land grant and that there is a common-law lien of $1.25 million on the property. He also claims a judgment entered Feb. 6 is null and void and is currently under review by the Michigan Court of Appeals. “Each one of you will be held jointly and severally liable in your private capacities for restitution and any and all damages related to your purchase. All those involved may be subject to federal, criminal charges including, but not limited to, misprision of felony, conspiracy to deny rights under color or law, etc.,” Klinge wrote. Village Manager Rebecca Fleury said the property situation has been thoroughly investigated by Barry County officials and attorneys. She said the county is prepared to sell the property. Council members discussed purchasing the property and then possibly reselling it to the adjacent neighbor, Chemical Bank, for expanded drive-through banking services or keeping the land for village use as a gateway to the community. It could be a location for a veterans memorial or other unique feature for the community. Back taxes and fees due on the property are $12,207. Council members did not comment on Klinge’s letter, but received copies of it for their records. Leadership Barry County continues journey toward $750,000 goal Members of the Leadership Barry County finance committee and board of directors have a goal of increasing the endowment fund by $25,000 annually for the next three years. Jennifer Richards, director of Leadership Barry County at the Barry Community Foundation, said they have a matching grant available that will match contributions, dollar for dollar. “We need $750,000 to be sustainable,” said Richards. Including the matching grant, LBC has raised $465,000. “When we reach the goal of $750,000, we will not have to do any more fundraising to keep this program alive and active in the community,” Richards said. The organization provides leadership training for individuals across the entire county. More than 380 have taken the leadership training since its inception. Recruitment for the class of 2013 is underway. Anyone interested in attending the program or wanting more information on this matching fund drive, should call Richards, 269-945-0526 or contact her via e-mail at jen@barrycf.org. Contributions can be sent directly to Leadership Barry County, Barry Community Foundation, 231 S. Broadway, Hastings 49058. GET MORE NEWS! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. COURT NEWS Allen Ray Burton of Delton was sentenced July 25 for criminal sexual conduct, fourth degree. Burton, 67, was ordered to serve 12 months in jail, with credit for 106 days served. He must pay $1,448 in court assessments and serve 60 months on probation. Burton also must attend cognitive behavior therapy in jail and pay $50 a month toward assessments after his release. Two more charges of criminal sexual conduct fourth degree multiple variables were dropped. John Michael Ulrich, 46, of Hastings was sentenced July 25 for illegal use of a financial transaction device, a probation violation and habitual offender fourth notice. Ulrich was ordered to serve 12 months in jail, with credit for 161 days served. He must pay $4,328 in court assessments and continue his 36-month probation from April 18, including completion of the Swift and Sure Sanction Program. The final 60 days of jail will suspended upon successful completion of probation. Charges of larceny of a building and financial transaction device retained without consent were dropped. Larry Lee Allerding, of Freeport, was sentenced for controlled substance possession of marijuana, controlled substance second or subsequent offense and operating impaired. Allerding, 53, was ordered July 25 to serve 30 days consecutively for each offense, with credit for three days served on the first charge and one day served on the second charge. He must pay $1,748 in court assessments and serve 12 months on probation. Allerding must pay $270 per month toward assessments and will be discharged from probation upon payment in full. Allerding’s final 15 days of jail time were suspended. A charge of operating a vehicle with the presence of a controlled substance was dropped. Jordan Ibarra, 23, of Dowling was sentenced for illegal use of a financial transaction device. Ibarra was ordered July 25 to serve 90 days in jail, with credit for one day served. He must pay $1,596 in court assessments and serve 12 months on probation. The balance of his jail time will be suspended upon completion of probation. He must pay $150 a month toward assessments and probation will be discharged upon full payment. A charge of illegal sale or use of a financial transaction device was dropped. Cary Lee Hixson, of Gainesville, Fla., was sentenced July 25 for unlawful use of a motor vehicle. Hixson, 23, was ordered to serve six months in jail, with credit for 52 days served. He must pay $1,198 in assessments. The last 45 days of jail will be suspended upon payment in full. Charges of unlawful driving away of a motor vehicle and habitual offender, second offense, were dropped. POLICE BEAT Evening in the park was warranted A Hastings officer spotted an individual in Tyden Park July 24 about 8 p.m. The officer believed the subject had an outstanding felony warrant for his arrest. Officers positively identified the 45-year-old Hastings man who was taken into custody without incident. Police found several variations of suspected controlled substances on and near the man, who claimed to have prescriptions for some of the substances. Also located was a cooler holding some intoxicants. The man was arrested for a two-count dangerous drug warrant and charged for having open intoxicants in the park. The investigation is continuing. Man is loud and itching for a fight Hastings officers responded to a residence in the 100 block of East Grand Street for a reported fight July 26. Police arrived to find a 24-year-old Hastings man was not allowed at the home and had been asked several times to stay away. The subject had arrived at the residence and challenged one of the residents to fight. Even after police arrived, officers said the man insisted on being loud and unruly. He was arrested for being a disorderly person and issued a citation for the offense. Boy takes car, wants to go back home Barry County Sheriff Deputies were called to a Westlake Road, Bellevue, residence July 20. The caller, a teen, said he had returned a car, which he had taken without permission, to the residence where he was living. He told the deputy the 28-year-old man who owned the car was hiding behind the door as he walked in, grabbed him and started punching him in the back of the head, then slammed to the ground and was kicked. The victim said the attacker put him on the couch and told him he was lucky not to be beaten with a baseball bat and threatened to put a bullet in his head. The man called 911 and told the victim not to move until the police showed up. When deputies contacted the alleged attacker, he said he had approached the victim as he walked in the door and the man had fallen backward on the table. When the victim stood up, the subject said he yelled at him and thumped him on the head with his open hand. The teen started crying and wanted to go back to his biological father in Indiana. Deputies took the victim to Pennock Hospital for examination then taken to Allegan County Juvenile Detention for safe-keeping during the ensuing investigation. Couple gets taste of global economy A Hastings woman went to the sheriff’s department July 24 to make a statement on behalf of her husband. She said their credit card had been used fraudulently July 22, and their bank had contacted them regarding five suspicious charges all for just over $31. All the charges came from a company in Cambodia that sells a smoking-cessation tea product. The $159 was refunded by the bank and there are no suspects. Officials in Cambodia will not release records of the sale. Facebook claims another jealous boyfriend Deputies were dispatched July 27 to a pending domestic assault on England Drive on Gun Lake. The victim was at a restaurant on Patterson Road. The woman told deputies she had been on her laptop computer, and her 17-year-old boyfriend had asked to see her screen. She said the Wayland man took the computer and shoved her onto the couch. She said he then grabbed her by the arm and face. He was upset that she had a conversation with another man on Facebook. The woman told deputies the man had been emotionally and physically abusive, and the physical violence was on the increase. She said she wanted to press charges. When interviewed, the boyfriend told deputies he was watching TV and his girlfriend was using her laptop. She started laughing at the computer screen and he asked her what she was laughing about. She told him “Nothing.” He told deputies the woman had cheated on him three times during the four years they had been together. He wanted to know if she was cheating again. He said he did not hit, grab or shove the woman, but called for a ride and left the residence. Neither party had visible signs of injury, according to deputies. The report has been turn over to the prosecutor’s office. Man gets off the ride and into jail Deputies were dispatched July 27 to the Hastings Goodwill drive for a reported attack. Passing motorists had seen a 37year-old Hastings man assaulting a female. The woman got into a witness’ car. Dispatch informed the deputies, en route, that the motorists were transporting the female to the nearby Tractor Supply parking lot. Deputies made contact with both parties. The man had small scrapes and scratches. He told deputies he had been dragged behind the car that the alleged victim had gotten into. The man said he did not hit or assault his wife and did not know why she would get in the car of a stranger. He would not tell deputies what would make the woman so afraid of him. Deputies smelled intoxicants, but the man refused a portable breath test. The woman told deputies the man had been drinking heavily and she did not want to be around him. She tried to leave, and he became angry enough to throw her to the ground. He attempted to drag her back to the house. She said a vehicle stopped and the occupants tried to assist her. She said her boyfriend then attacked the people trying to help her. The driver of the car said the man struck him several times and grabbed the keys from the ignition. The driver got the keys back. The boyfriend tried to stop the car by hanging into the window and trying to put the car into neutral. Reportedly, he also tried to pull the woman from the car, and fell in the process. Based on witness accounts, he was placed under arrest for domestic violence, assault and battery. The report has been turned over to the prosecutor for review. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 2, 2012 — Page 13 Hurless has the right qualities for office To the editor: Voting is a key element as an American citizen. Tuesday, Aug. 7 is an important day for all qualified voters in the Barry County area. Whether you vote absentee or in person. It's your duty as an American to go your place to vote and vote your choices. But it does take a little time to research the information about your choices. Do not just go the polls and place an non-researched vote. Do not just listen to someone else (friend, family, or Facebook) tell you how to vote. On any ballot, local or state proposals take the necessary time to read the wording. Your future will be in that vote that you placed. Make sure you know where your polling places will be. Make sure you have your ID, and that you look over the ballot carefully before you take the opportunity to place your vote. It is also important that we make this area's election workers have a tough day with all the people coming in to vote. We do not need the usual 25 to 30 percent turnout, this year we need at least 75 to 80 percent of the electorate voting. This election is going to be in place for a long time. This election will set the stage for Nov. 6, 2012. The people we put in office will be able to declare policy for a very long time. In America, we the people, can take control of the government at all levels if we take the time. You have a constitutional right to a private vote, do not feel you must tell anyone how you voted. So many agenices need to declare winners in every election, make them wait like all the rest of us. Please vote for the right person, not the most popular, or the chosen one. If you are flip-flopping around on some choices, look at how that person has conducted himself or herself. Take an old-fashioned approach and go with what you want. Follow the system of looking at the man or woman. Will they do the job that they are being elected to? Do they have the “good old boys club” label? The future is now. Elections are an impor- tant part of you being an American citizen. Do your duty and vote for the future of all levels of this country’s system of government. Stephen Jacobs, Hastings Political signs go missing To the editor: What’s up with all of the stealing of political signs? The ones who stole them should be arrested and put in jail. The signs cost the candidates a lot of money. Dirty politics in Barry County. The ones who steal signs can steal them, but they can’t steal the votes. Elden Shellenbarger, Hastings Albert has proven her capabilities To the editor: Re-elect Patricia Albert Pettit for Hope Township Supervisor. Pat has proven her capabilities and leadership to be very helpful, financially saving, and highly beneficial to our township. Township government is much more than part-time work, and Pat is conscientious enough to accept that responsibility while keeping the people’s interest at heart with minimal pay. Please vote in the primary election Tuesday, Aug. 7. This is where the ballot will be determined for the November election. Mary Jo and Dave Whitaker, Delton Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators: Rain, confirmed case brings new warning about West Nile Virus After several weeks without rain, West Michigan has received measurable rainfall several times in the past coupled of weeks. The rain is certain to provide breeding grounds for mosquitoes. State officials say the hot, dry spring and summer allowed mosquitoes carrying the West Nile to hatch early. West Nile can cause a variety of symptoms, from mild aches and a fever to potentially fatal conditions, such as meningitis and encephalitis. Michigan health officials announced last week that a man from Oakland County was diagnosed as the state’s first human case of West Nile Virus for the year. The Michigan Department of Community Health says the 44-year-old required hospitalization, but is now at home recovering. Two counties on the east side of Michigan reported WNV activity in earlier this month. The Saginaw County Mosquito Abatement Commission tested a mosquito pool, and found the population was positive for WNV. In Washtenaw County, a wild turkey displaying signs of WNV, tested positive for the virus at Michigan State University. “Take a few minutes before you and your family go outdoors to make sure you are protected,” said Cathy Raevsky, administrative health officer for the Kent County Health Department. “While most people bit by mosquitoes carrying West Nile Virus never show any symptoms, the disease can have severe complications in people over the age of fifty or who are already suffering from other medical conditions.” The Michigan West Nile Virus website, www.michigan.gov/westnilevirus, includes more about transmission, symptoms and prevention. State Police forensic labs retain accreditation Michigan State Police Director Col. Kriste Kibbey Etue announced Thursday that all seven of the department’s forensic science laboratories have retained accreditation by the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors/Laboratory Accreditation Board). While not mandatory, the ASCLD/LAB accreditation process allows a laboratory to demonstrate that its management, personnel, operational and technical procedures, equipment and physical facilities meet established standards. MSP laboratories have been accredited since September 1984, and account for seven of the more than 380 laboratories worldwide that hold ASCLD/LAB accreditation. “This achievement, while always expected, is especially noteworthy this time considering our laboratories were inspected under the new ASCLD/LAB International ISO-based Accreditation Program,” said Etue. “Obtaining this accreditation is testimony of the caliber of employees we have in our Forensic Science Division and their commitment to providing the best in forensic services to our criminal justice community.” The MSP Forensic Science Division provides crime lab services to state, county and municipal law enforcement agencies statewide at no cost to local communities. Services include crime scene response, drug analysis, firearms and toolmark identification, DNA analysis, polygraph services, latent print analysis, toxicology/blood alcohol, questioned documents, micro-chemical analysis, and use of information sharing networks including the Automated Fingerprint Identification System, Integrated Ballistics Identification System and Combined DNA Index System. MSP labs are located in Bridgeport, Grand Rapids, Grayling, Lansing, Marquette, Northville and Sterling Heights. To learn more, visit www.michigan.gov/forensics. DEQ orders Corunna Dam drawdown The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality Monday began an emergency drawdown of the Corunna Dam on the Shiawassee River, east of Owosso. Following a series of inspections over the past several months, the department determined the structure is at risk of sudden failure and issued an emergency order July 25 to the owners of the Corunna Dam in Shiawassee County. The order calls for immediate drawdown of the impoundment behind the dam to reduce an immediate threat to the health, safety and welfare of downstream residents and natural resources resulting from a breach that has formed in the dam's spillway. As this breach develops, sudden failure of the spillway could occur, releasing large volumes of water and sediments into the Shiawassee River downstream of the dam. DEQ staff were to commence actions to begin the drawdown of the impoundment Monday. Total drawdown of the impoundment is expected by Aug. 12. The public is urged to maintain a safe distance from the dam during this period, avoiding the spillway structure and the Shiawassee River channel downstream of the dam as it could fail without warning. Call anytime to place your Hastings Banner classified ad 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 77569731 Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov 77569734 77569728 U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. Barb Hurless would also be a hands-on register of deeds manager and would work in the office together with the other employees. Barb has the other qualities that are necessary in dealing with the public; she is courteous, patient and knowledgeable. Therefore, in order to be assured that Barry County’s Register of Deeds office runs efficiently, keeps updated on technology, it is my strong suggestion that you vote for Barb Hurless for the office of register of deeds in the upcoming Republican primary Aug. 7. David H. Tripp, Hastings State News Roundup 77569737 Voting is everyone’s duty investment. Therefore, the deeds, mortgages and other documents recorded regarding title to real estate is crucial to most citizens of the county. That is why it is important that the register of deeds office runs smoothly and efficiently. It has been run smoothly and efficiently because the elected officials who have run the office for many years have been hands-on managers in the office. I believe it is critical that our next register of deeds have the experience of working in the office for many years. Therefore, I am supporting Barb Hurless for register of deeds since she has worked in the Barry County Register of Deeds office for the past 13 years. 77569740 IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV To the editor: As a real estate attorney practing 33 years in the state of Michigan, primarily in Barry County, I have recorded documents throughout the state of Michigan in many register of deeds offices in different counties and have recently used online services in the various counties. I am pleased to say that Barry County has always delivered top-notch service and has had, for a long time, a good online system for checking documents. This has recently been updated, so recently filed documents are available online and can be downloaded. For many people, their home is their biggest �Page 14 — Thursday, August 2, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Reyna moves up on UMKC basketball coaching staff The University of Missouri-Kansas City men’s basketball program announced the final full-time member of its staff in July as former graduate assistant Ruben Reyna was named the Director of Basketball Operations. “Ruben did an excellent job as a graduate assistant, and he has earned the opportunity,” head coach coach Matt Brown said. “I love to see young guys get the chance to advance in the profession, just like people did for me early in my career.” Reyna, from Delton, is entering his fifth season with the ‘Roos after serving as a graduate assistant (GA) coach the previous two years. He was named to the GA post in July 2010. Reyna previously served as a manager with the ‘Roos for the 2008-09 and 2009-10 seasons. “I am extremely grateful to coach Brown and the rest of the staff.” Reyna said. “I have been with the program for a while now, and I am excited to stay a part of the ‘Roo family and continue to live here in Kansas City.” Reyna served as the video coordinator, as he cut and edited game file, while assisting with the day-to-day operations of the program. He came to Kansas City after serving as an assistant varsity boys basketball coach at Delton Kellogg High School from 2003-07. He also spent the 2007-08 season as the head The two dozen participants in the First Annual Maple Valley Alumni Baseball Game get together after a 12-10 nine-inning victory by the “home” team in Vermontville Saturday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) MVHS’s first alumni game draws 24 Ruben Reyna assistant at Goshen College in Indiana. Reyna graduated from UMKC in 2010 with a degree in liberal arts. He is currently working on his master’s degree in higher education administration. Fall practices will begin next week at DKHS Practices for the fall season begin at Delton Kellogg High School next week. The season opens with the first high school football practice of the season, Monday from 4:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. Other high school sports begin Wednesday. The first practice for the high school boys’ soccer program will be held Aug. 8 from 6 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. The high school cross country season begins Aug. 8 at the high school at 6 p.m. The high school volleyball program will hold its first practices of the season Wednesday and Thursday twice each day, from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m. and from noon to 2 p.m. The Delton Kellogg Middle School volleyball program will hold its first practice Aug. 27, from 3:30 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. Lions’ fall sports practices begin next week at MVHS Practices for the fall sports season at Maple Valley High School kick-off with two practices for the junior varsity and varsity football teams Aug. 6 at the high school practice field from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. The sideline cheer team will also be holding its first practice at the high school football field Aug. 6, from 5:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. The rest of the high school sports season begins Aug. 8. Boys’ and girls’ cross country will hold their first practices Aug. 8 at the high school track beginning at 9 a.m. The volleyball teams’ first practices will be Aug. 8 in the high school gymnasium, from 4:30 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. The boys’ soccer team’s first practice will be held at Fuller Street Field from 8 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. Aug. 8. J-Ad Graphics and the Hastings Athletic Boosters proudly presents THE BUZZ YOUNGS LEGENDS GOLF CLASSIC Saturday, August 4th, 2012 at River Bend Golf Course 4-Person Scramble • 9:00 a.m. Shot Gun Start — Cash Prizes — $75.00 per person First… 500 • Second… 300 2 Blind Draws… $100 each includes: greens fee for 18 holes of golf, shared power cart and dinner. $ $ Closest to the pin - Long Drives (Males/Females), 50/50 closest to the pin, Skins game (optional), Raffle table. LEGENDS… Jock Clarey, Lew Lang, Jack Hoke, Robert Carlson, Patricia Murphy, Richard Guenther, Bruce McDowell, Bernie Oom, Tony Turkal, Robert VanderVeen, Dr. Jim Atkinson, Carl Schoessel, Larry Melendy, Cynthia Robbe, William Karpinski, Ernest Strong, Dennis Storrs, Earlene, Larry Baum, Dave Furrow, Judy Anderson, Tom Brighton, Jeff Simpson, Jack Longstreet, Denny O’Mara, 2012 Legend Michael Murphy. To sign up please call... Nancy Schoessel at 269-945-2742 or email hastingsathleticboosters@gmail.com 07604520 The home team’s Bryan Carpenter pitches during the top of the second inning Saturday at the First Annual Alumni Baseball game in Vermontville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Deven Meade walked with one-out in the bottom of the sixth inning of the First Annual Maple Valley Alumni Baseball Game Saturday in Vermontville. He advanced from first to third on a wild pitch, then raced home to tie the game at 4-4 as the throw to try and catch him at third went flying down the left field line. “I was starting to run out of gas at the end,” said the representative of the class of 2008. The score swung back and forth from then on, until Meade’s home team finally came away with a 12-10 victory. He wasn’t the only one running out of gas at the end of the game, but everyone did leave the field healthy and happy. A total of 24 Maple Valley baseball alumni turned out for the event, which was organized by 2011 graduate Matt Woodman and varsity baseball coach and 1993 graduate Bryan Carpenter as a fundraiser for the high school baseball program. “It was better than what I was hoping for actually,” Woodman said. “We got more peo- Brian Sleeper of the home team tries to avoid the tag of visitors’ first baseman Levi Westendorp during the bottom of the fifth inning Saturday at the First Annual Alumni Baseball game in Vermontville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) ple to come out than what I expected. So, it was good. “Great weather.” “Everybody had a great attitude. It was fun.” Carpenter drew up the teams ahead of time, mixing young and old and trying to keep some of the families together. The Meade family helped power the home team to its victory, Deven, Richard and Mike all reached base in the home team’s six-run rally in the bottom of the eighth inning. That rally wiped out an 8-6 visitors’ lead. Consecutive RBI doubles by Woodman, Troy Westendorp and Rusty Harris finished off the rally. The winning team also included Carpenter, Coty Franklin, Brian Sleeper, Tal Gearhart and Matt McClelland. Carpenter struck out to end the bottom of the eighth. He had been a target of opposing pitchers all game long, being many of the players’ former coach. Jordan Sprague came to the mound to face just one batter, Carpenter in the bottom of the fifth. It took two tries before the 2010 graduate plunked his old coach with a “fastball”, then returned to his position at third base. He got beaned in his next at-bat too, by 2010 graduate Levi Westendorp. “They’ve got anger issues,” Carpenter said with a smile. “Anger management issues.” Carpenter was in the middle of the pack in terms of age among the players. “For me it’s neat, because playing here were guys I looked up to, guys that were a few years older than me, and then the guys I’ve coached the last ten or 12 years. To see all that come together is pretty neat for me.” Mike Meade was the most senior member of the group, a 1974 graduate. While the Meades filled the home team roster, the visiting line-up was filled with Fishers: Jeff, Kyle and Riley. Players chipped in $30 each to take part in the event, with proceeds going to the Maple Valley High School baseball program. “We’re trying to raise money to redo the dug-outs,” Carpenter said. “That’s our next big thing, so we’ve got some donations that have come in and some memorial money that has come in. We’re trying to boost it up a little bit and be able to get a couple dug outs.” The plan is to make this an annual event. A Maple Valley Alumni Baseball page has been created on Facebook. MHSAA adds handful of football rules The 2012-13 Fall sports season officially begins next week, when approximately 110,000 student-athletes in begin practice in eight sports in which Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) sponsors post-season tournaments. Practice sessions begins on Monday (Aug. 6) in football, followed by all other sports on Wednesday (Aug. 8). Practice in football must begin on Aug. 6 for all schools wishing to begin regular season games the weekend of Aug. 23-26. Schools must have 12 days of preseason practice at all levels before their first game, which may not occur before 16 calendar days. All football schools must also conduct at least three days of practice before beginning contact, and those sessions may not include any pads. In golf and tennis, competition may commence no earlier than after three separate days of team practice, and not before seven calendar days. The first day competition may take place in golf and tennis is August 15. In all other fall sports, contests can take place after seven days of practice for the team and not before nine calendar days. The first day competition may take place in cross country, soccer, swimming and diving, and volleyball in the fall is Aug. 17. This year, two football dates precede Labor Day, and Thursday varsity games will take place both weeks. Subvarsity competition may begin on Aug. 22. In week one, 81 games will be played on Thursday, 222 contests will be played on Friday, and 23 games will be played on Saturday. The following weekend, 239 games will be played on Thursday, 67 games will be played on Friday, and five games will be played on Saturday. There are several significant rules changes on football for 2012. On passing plays, a receiver must first contact and establish control of the ball while inbounds – regardless of the opponent’s action. In other words, a catch cannot be ruled on plays where the receiver may have come down in bounds if not for the action of the defender. If a player’s helmet comes off during a play, and did not occur as a result of a foul by the opponent, that player must leave the game for one play, unless it happens on the final play of a half or an overtime. Hand contact by a blocker below the waist of a defender is now considered blocking below the waist. The kicking team may not contact a mem- ber of receiving team on a kickoff until the ball has traveled ten yards, or unless a member of the receiving team initiates the contact. Jerseys of the visiting team must be white in color, and home jerseys are restricted in the use of white for varsity competition. This was a rule change made in 2007 for implementation this season. In soccer, Michigan will not participate in a National Federation rules change this year involving the disqualification from a game when a player receives a second yellow card and the subsequent red card. In Michigan, the player will still be ejected from the contest, but that team will not continue the game a player down. The penalty for a hand ball by a player other than the goalkeeper to prevent a score has been changed. If the goal is prevented, the penalty remains a disqualification of the player; however, if the goal is scored, the penalty will now be a caution to the player who deliberately handled the ball. There are no substantial rules change in other fall sports. The 2012 Fall campaign culminates with post-season tournaments beginning with the Upper Peninsula Girls Tennis Finals the week of Oct. 1, and wraps up with the Football Playoff Finals on November 23-24. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 2, 2012 — Page 15 Seventh annual Duits Sand Volleyball Tourney a success Valhalla team finishes summer season Emily Duits’ parents, Selena and Jeff Duits (back center), celebrate with the winners of the Youth Division at Sunday’s Seventh Annual Emily Duits Sand Volleyball Tournament. The championship team included (front from left) Patsy Morris, Katelynn Kietsman, Kayla Sauers, (back) Lisa Hewitt, Alivia Benedict and Breanna Wickerink. The Valhalla Wrestling team finished up its 2012 summer wrestling season by competing in the Border Wars Grand River Rumble July 22 at Kellogg Arena in Battle Creek. The team was sponsored by Carbon Green BioEnergy and the Lakewood Wrestling Club this season. Team members taking part in the tournament in Battle Creek included (from left) Austin Keitzman, Jeremy Innes, Alex Young, Garrett Phelps, Jack Tromp, Jordan Bennett, Chase Challender, Hunter Challender, Chance Smith, John Jackson, Trent Bramen, and Coach Levi Phelps. Fall sports practices begin next week at HHS The Adult Division at Sunday’s Seventh Annual Emily Duits Sand Volleyball Tournament was won by the team of (front from left) Abby Miedema, Amy Vander Wal, (back) Kevin Commee, Mike Marciniak, Chelsea Lake, Cameron Rowland and Kim Weaver. A total of 25 teams turned out for the Seventh Annual Sand Emily Duits Sand Volleyball Tournament at the Lake Odessa Fairgrounds Sunday. Champions were crowned in adult and youth divisions at the end of the long, hot day of volleyball. The team of Cameron Rowland, Kevin Commee, Chelsea Lake, Mike Marciniak, Abby Miedema, Amy Vander Wal and Kim Weaver won the Adult Division. In the Youth Division, the team of Alivia Benedict, Lisa Hewitt, Katelynn Kietsman, Patsy Morris, Kayla Sauers and Breanna TYDEN PARK • Wickerink took the championship. This was the second year the event has included a youth division. Players received event T-shirts, enjoyed bbq chicken or pig roast meals throughout the day, and all the ice cream they cared to enjoy. Players and spectators also shared memories of Duits, who passed away in 2005 from injuries suffered in an automobile accident. Duits loved the game of volleyball, loved her friends and family, and loved making memories. The tournament has been put together to celebrate those things that meant so much to her. SATURDAY AUG. 25TH $ COST… 25 per team of 3 or 4 players The first practices for the fall sports season will be held beginning next week at Hastings High School, with the middle school fall sports season set to begin next month as well. All athletes must be registered and have a completed physical on file in the school office in order to practice. Physical forms are available in the high school office, the middle school office and the administration office. The season kicks off with the first football practices of the season. The field house opens at 7:30 a.m. Monday, Aug. 6, for the varsity team. The first practices will run from 8 a.m. until 11 a.m. and then from noon until 2 p.m. Players are asked to meet at the field house next to the high school tennis courts. Contact coach Fred Rademacher for more information at 616-827-0569. The field house opens at 4:30 p.m. for the first junior varsity and freshmen football practices of the season. Each team will hod practice from 5 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. Players are asked to meet at the field house. JV players can contact coach Brian Donnini for more information at 269-948-2916. Freshmen players can contact coach Marsh Evans for more information at 269-838-5055. CHECK IN… 8:30 AM Pick up T-shirts at this time TIP OFF… 9:30 AM Boys & Girls (Ages 12-14) Team Name ____________________ Boys & Girls (Ages 15-17) Men & Women (Ages 18-25) Men & Women (Ages 26 & up) Age brackets subject to change based on participation Team Captain___________________________________ Age _______ Send Entries to… Phone # __________________________ 77569647 Team Members Age Age ___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________ Please fill out form completely TYDEN PARK • Barry County Chamber of Commerce 221 W. State Street Hastings, MI 49058 Questions ??… Call (269) 948-3025 SATURDAY AUG. 25TH starting at 9:30 a.m. at the Hastings Country Club. Contact head coach Bruce Krueger for more information at 269-948-2383. The sideline cheer team will also begin practicing Aug. 8, freshmen and JV practice will run from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the high school balcony. Contact athletic director Goggins for more information at 269-8385010 or 269-948-4409. For cross country runners not attending camp, the first practice of the season will be held Aug. 20, from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m. at the high school. Contact head coach Steve Collins for more information at 269-8047156. Sign-up for middle school volleyball and cross country will be held Sept. 4. Practices begin Sept. 5. and will run from 3:30 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. The middle school volleyball program will be hosting open gym time at the middle school’s west gym Aug. 27-29 from 6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. as well. Contact coach Angie Sixberry for more information at 269-838-4023, or athletic director Goggins at 269-838-5010 or 269948-4409. Lakewood sports teams will hold HASTINGS HIGH SCHOOL and MIDDLE SCHOOL their first practices soon The beginning of the fall high school sports season at Lakewood High School is just a few days away. The participation fee this season at Lakewood High School is $155 per athlete. Fees will be due by Aug. 22. Athletes need to have a physical on file with the high school office. The high school football season begins with the equipment pick-up evening Aug. 5 at the Unity Field locker room. The varsity pick-up is scheduled for 4 p.m. The JV pickup starts at 5 p.m. The freshman team’s equipment pick-up begins at 6 p.m. Football practice for all three levels begins Aug. 6, running from 7 a.m. until 2 p.m. Athletes are told to bring a sack lunch. Cross country practice, girls’ golf practice, and volleyball tryouts begin Aug. 8. Cross country practices will be held from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Aug. 8-10. The team will be at camp from Aug. 13 until Aug. 15, then back to 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. practices until school begins. Contact head coach Jim Hassett for more information at hassettj@lakewoodps.org. The first girls’ golf practice will be held Aug. 8 at Centennial Acres in Sunfield beginning at 9 a.m. All girls are welcome and encouraged to play. Contact head coach Carl Kutch with any questions at (269) 953-3639. Volleyball tryouts will be held from Aug. 8-10 from 3 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. in the high school gymnasiums. Entries must be to the Chamber by Friday, Aug. 17th Make checks payable to Hastings Summerfest 2012 Practice/try-outs for most of the other high school programs begins Wednesday, Aug. 8. The volleyball program will host freshman try-outs in the high school gymnasium from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. Aug. 8. JV and varsity tryouts will follow from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m. contact Val Slaughter at 269-420-1406 for more information. The Thornapple Kellogg/Hastings girls’ swimming and diving team will hold its first practice from 3:00 p.m. until 6 p.m. in the Community Education and Recreation Center Pool Aug. 8. Contact coach Carl Schoessel for more information at 269-948-8658. Try-outs for the boys’ varsity and junior varsity will begin with two sessions Aug. 8, from 7:30 a.m. until 9 a.m. and from 6:30 p.m. until 8 p.m. on Pierce Field behind the Hastings High School. Contact varsity coach Ben Conklin for more information at (269) 838-1165. The boys’ tennis program will hold its first practice from 8 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. at the high school tennis courts Aug. 8. Contact athletic director Mike Goggins for more information at 269-838-5010 or at 269-948-4409. Girls’ golf practice also beings Aug. 8, GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! FIRST PRACTICE INFORMATION All athletes must be registered and have a completed physical on file in the school office in order to practice. Physical forms are available in the HS office, MS office and the Administration office. FIRST DAY OF PRACTICE INFO: Varsity Football - Monday, August 6 – Field house opens at 7:30am, Practice, 8:00am-11:00am, and 12:00pm to 2:00pm. Meet at Field house (next to HS Tennis Courts) Coach: Fred Rademacher 616 827-0569 JV Football – Monday, August 6 - Field house opens at 4:30pm, Practice, 5:00pm – 7:30pm. Meet at Field house (next to HS Tennis Courts) Coach: Brian Doninni 948-2916 Freshman Football - Monday, August 6 - Field house opens at 4:30pm, Practice, 5:00pm – 7:30pm. Meet at Field house (next to HS Tennis Courts) Coach Marsh Evans 269 838-5055 Volleyball- Wednesday, August 8 – Freshman Tryouts 4:00pm to 6:00pm. JV and Varsity Tryouts, 7:00pm to 9:00pm in HS gym. Coach: Val Slaughter 269 420-1406 Girls Swim - Wednesday, August 8 – Practice 3:00-6:00 CERC Pool Carl Schoessel 948-8658 Boys Varsity and JV Soccer – Wednesday, August 8 – Tryouts 7:30am to 9:00am AND 6:30pm to 8:00pm on Pierce Field (grass field behind the HS) Coach: Ben Conklin 838-1165, Boys Tennis – Wednesday, August 8 – Practice 8:00am – 10:30am at the HS Tennis Courts. Athletic Director-Mike Goggins 269 838-5010 or 948-4409 Cross Country – For Runners not attending Cross Country Camp – Practice begins August 20th 9:00am -11:00am at the High School. Coach: Steve Collins 269 804-7156 Girls Golf – Wednesday, August 8 – Practice 9:30am at the Hastings Country Club. Coach: Bruce Krueger 948-2383 Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Side Line Cheer – Wednesday, August 8 – Freshman and JV Practice, 3:00 to 5:00 HS balcony. Athletic Director-Mike Goggins 269 838-5010 or 948-4409 Call 945-9554 for more information. MS Volleyball and Cross Country Sign up is Sept. 4th – Practices begin Sept. 5th, 3:30pm – 5:30pm – MS Volleyball open gyms 6:30-8:30pm, August 27, 28, 29 Middle School, west gym. Coach: Angie Sixberry 269-838-4023 Athletic Director-Mike Goggins 269 838-5010 or 948-4409 77569842 �Page 16 — Thursday, August 2, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Hastings High School Marching Band prepares for fall season New director takes the reins Hastings High School Band Director Spencer White directs the band from above. Members of the Hastings High School Marching Band work on blocking Monday evening. Connor Wales (left) gets a pointer from Hastings High School band alumni staffer, Andrew Moore. by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer ‘New’ is a common theme as the Hastings High School Band prepares for the fall marching season — a new camp, a new director, not to mention that approximately onethird of the band’s 83 members are freshmen. “We had a two pre-camp rehearsals in July; but, when camp started Monday it was a big day,” said Hastings’ new band director Spencer White, who replaced the retired Joan BosserdSchroeder. “It’s a new camp, a new director so there was some anxiety— including my own; but everything has been really great. The students are learning the new program, the new camp is definitely an upgrade, and with onethird of the band being freshmen, it’s great because we have all this new energy. This is such a great experience for them. When they walk into Hastings High School this fall they will already have 82 best friends; they will have nothing to be nervous about.” The camp, which began Monday and concludes Friday, was paid for by participating students. White, a graduate of Forest Hills Northern High School in Grand Rapids and Western Michigan University, comes to Hastings after four years serving as one of two band direc- tors at Edwardsburg Public schools. Edwardsburg’s band program had 300 students when White joined the district and the numbers had swelled to 450 when he was laid off this spring due to budget cuts. White said he hopes to help the Hastings band program to begin to grow. “I’m not going to try to reinvent the wheel, but to build on the tradition of excellence at Hastings has been established by Art Steward, Joe LaJoye, and Joan Bosserd-Schroeder; it’s quite and honor to able to add my name to that list.” The band’s train-themed musical program for the marching season was created by Bosserd-Schroeder and features songs such as “I’ve Been Working on The Railroad,” “Take the A Train,” “Midnight Train to Georgia,” Crazy Train,” and “Loco-motion.” White also attributes the camp’s success to all of the parent volunteers, organized by Kim Domke and Kaylin Rhodes. “They make sure there is always water for breaks, and we have all that we need to keep things running,” he said. “Our alumni staff — Andrew Moore, Robert Taylor, Jenny LaJoye, Nathan Rhodes, Megan Herbstreith, and Lexi von der Hoff — have also been a great help.” Domke said she has been impressed with Hastings High School Band Director Spencer White (center, with microphone) gives directions to band members. The Hastings High School Band practices marching at the Battle Creek Public School Outdoor Education Center. both the new camp and the director. “The kids are loving the new camp ... The Battle Creek Public Schools Outdoor Education Center is closer to town, the kids are able to swim every day— the lake and the facilities are beautiful and the food is good and there are fresh fruits and vegetables at every meal,” she said. “And, Spencer? The kids love him. He’s very organized and has a fun and positive demeanor. Everyone was nervous; but it has worked out really well.” Need wedding invitations? 07605528 Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, P.C. 840 Cook Road Hastings, MI 49058 Call Today: 537 W. Main Street Ionia, MI 48846 (269) 945-9520 (800) 596-1005 551 Linn Street Allegan, MI 49010 Visit us online: www.hoc-mi.com Stop by and check out the large selection at: Printing Plus 1351 N. M-43 Hwy., Hastings � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-08-09.pdf da27a480a9dcc554f8fbc8a0f6752684 PDF Text Text Rutland discusses water, sewer services Primary decided by only 20 percent of voters Lakewood alumni make it 3-0 against Ionia See Story on Page 8 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 14 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 32 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, August 9, 2012 NEWS Upsets help add to new faces on county commission BRIEFS Barry Democrats to meet Aug. 11 The Barry County Democrats will meet at 9 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 11 at Thomas Jefferson Hall in downtown Hastings. In addition, a final planning session for participation in Hastings Summerfest takes place at 8:30 a.m. at the same location. The public is invited to attend either or both meetings. For further information, or for questions, visit www.facebook.com/barrycountydemocrats. Love Inc. in need of personal care donations Love Inc. of Barry County, a nondenominational Christian organization that helps residents in need, is seeking donations. The organization is running low on supplies and is asking citizens who are able to help by donating the following items: Feminine products, diapers (all sizes), hair care products, cleaning products, hygiene and paper products, gas cards and transit passes. Donations may be dropped of at Love Inc., 305 S. Michigan Ave., Hastings, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information, call 269-948-9555. Thornapple Players auditioning for first Shakespeare production by Doug VanderLaan Editor A new look is what Tuesday’s primary vote will provide for the Barry County Board of Commissioners in January and, in one case, the new look will be a reprise of more than six years ago when a woman last graced the board table. Joyce Snow, who upended incumbent Robert Houtman in District 3, will become the first woman on the board since Claire Tripp retired from her position in 2002. There also will be new look commissioners in District 6 where retired Thornapple Manor administrator Jim DeYoung out-polled challengers Vivian Lee Conner and Mark A. Doster, in District 4 where Jon Smelker prevailed over Dean Bass and Curt Cybulski, and in District 7 where James Dull, with 538 votes, surpassed incumbent Jeff VanNortwick, who had 445. In the final three districts, incumbents held their positions. Howard R. Gibson retained his seat in District 1 with a close win over Frank Campbell and incumbent Donald Nevins whose district was reapportioned into Gibson’s. In District 2, incumbent and Board Chairman Craig Stolsonburg was unopposed and, in District 5 incumbent and Board Vice Chairman Ben Geiger prevailed over challenger Steven Pyrzynski. “I’m very pleased with the changes and the progress that we made at the county board Experience is the winner for new register of deeds by Doug VanderLaan Editor On-the-job experience may have been the secret to success for Barbara Hurless who, with 93 percent of precincts reporting, took more than half the votes cast for Barry County’s register of deeds position. Hurless, who has worked in the office for the past 13 years and most recently as chief deputy, polled 3,635 votes of the 7,146 that The Thornapple Players will hold auditions for William Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” Tuesday, Aug. 14, at 7 p.m. in the Barry Community Enrichment Center. Twenty roles are available. Three of the couples need to be younger, but several parts can be flexibly cast with people of all ages. High school seniors through adults from Barry County or the surrounding area are welcome to audition. Show dates are Oct. 11 to 14. If unable to audition at the set time, call Acker, 269-945-2332, before Aug. 14 for an alternate time. The center is located at 231 South Broadway (in the former Hastings Presbyterian church.). Pennock Gun Lake Medical Center hosting Business After Hours The Barry County Chamber of Commerce will host its next Business After Hours event Thursday, Aug., 9, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at the Gun Lake Medical Center at 12851 W. M-179 Highway, just east of Patterson Road. The networking event offers chamber members, guests, community leaders, customers and colleagues the opportunity to learn more about the chamber of commerce as well as tour the new Gun Lake Medical Center facility. For more information, visit the chamber’s website, www.mibarry.com/ tourism/calendar. To attend a Business After Hours event, RSVP Carol Vogt, 269-945-2454, or e-mail carol@mibarry.com. level in my term in office,” said Houtman. “Some of those were reducing the costs of operating the board, adding to transparency, finding secure funding for MSUE and 4-H. “If you’re looking for an excuse for why this election was lost, it wouldn’t be the animal shelter. I’m especially pleased that the board has established an animal control advisory board and a structure to give the community what they bought, asked, and paid for 12 years ago. That’s an example of the right thing to do.” “A lot of people are disgruntled with the way the county is spending the money,” stated Dull, who credited door-to-door conversations as the secret to his assumed success. “This newest thing with animal shelter – don’t we have better places to spend $70,000 than to hire a new director and create another department? “You’ve got to have some common sense because it all looks great on paper. You need more input from the people on what they want – not what commissioners want.” VanNortwick, reached by telephone while he attended the Board of Canvassers official vote verification on Wednesday afternoon was not yet ready to concede the race, but did have some thoughts on the people. “It is what it is because primaries are always the tougher elections,” said VanNortwick. “When less than 20 percent of registered voters vote, it doesn’t give a real gotten the word out,” assessed Watson. “I feel I did have a lot to offer the county, but I wish Barb luck.” Watson, a licensed Realtor, appraiser, residential contractor and real estate broker, has been an integral part of community work in the county having served on the county’s board of commissioners, the city’s council, its planning commission, the airport commission and Barry County United Way. Jelsema’s first run at political office provided a focus on his legal background and its use in a recordkeeping duty. He also, during his forum remarks and campaigning, stressed the importance of customer service using as an example the closure of the register of deeds office each lunch hour. reliable reflection of the voting public.” Countywide turnout came in at 22 percent. Amongst the newcomers, District 4’s Smelker, a retired postal service worker, Bliss employee, and Army veteran, ran the strongest totaling 770 votes or 66 percent of all votes in a race that also included Bass with 219 votes and Cybulski with 162. DeYoung, in District 6 recorded 431 votes or 40 percent in his win over Conner with 375 votes and Doster with 431. One incumbent who prevailed strongly was Geiger in District 5, which provided 73 percent or 693 of its votes to his reelection bid. Pyrzynski, a part-time federal employee and U.S. Air Force veteran picked up 257 votes. All candidates for county commission seats ran as Republicans and faced no Democratic opposition, meaning that none of the seven winning commission electees will face opposition in the Nov. 6 general election. Several county races were unchallenged and incumbents will receive no opposition from Democrats in the Nov. 6 general election. With 92.6 percent of precincts reporting, County Sheriff Dar Leaf drew 6,588 votes in a contest that also recorded 93 write in votes. County Clerk Pamela A. Jarvis captured 6,445 votes, which represented 99.57 percent of votes cast. County Treasurer Sue VandeCar received 6,343 votes amongst a field of 6,372 total votes. County Drain Commissioner Russ Yarger won 6,386 votes or 99.5 percent of all votes cast, and County Surveyor Brian Reynolds tallied 6,330 votes in a contest that also elicited 32 write-in votes. Prosecutor’s predecessor becomes successor Julie Nakfoor-Pratt was appointed to serve as the Barry County prosecuting attorney for 11 months before current prosecutor Tom Evans assumed the post six years ago. In January, Nakfoor Pratt will once again take the helm of the prosecutor’s office and become Evans’ successor as well as predecessor. With 25 of 27 precincts reporting, Nakfoor Pratt garnered 4793, or 59.96 percent of the votes; while Evans received 3,201 or 40.04 percent of the votes in Tuesday’s primary, according to the Barry County Clerk’s Office unofficial election results posted on the county website. Nakfoor Pratt said Wednesday she is grateful for the support she received during her campaign and for everyone who voted for her. "I would like to thank the voters for their support in [Tuesday’s] election. It has been a real pleasure to meet so many of you as I have campaigned throughout Barry County,” she said. “I have listened to your concerns and take them seriously. This has been a long and contentious struggle, and I appreciate your encouragement. I look forward to serving you for the next four years." In a brief concession statement, Evans also said he was thankful for the support he received during his campaign. “We have served the public well over the Julie Nakfoor Pratt last six years, and I would have been happy to serve for another four years, but the voters chose someone else this time,” he said. “We have assembled the greatest staff of public servants, and will leave the office better than we found it. I am blessed with the most wonderful wife, family and friends and am looking forward to finding a new place to serve.” Barb Hurless had been recorded by press time. Following were challengers Linda L. Watson with 1,837 votes and Jake Jelsema with 1,655. “I know the duties of the office because we’ve all been cross-trained,” Hurless stated during a candidate forum last week. “We have over 100 different codes and a high-tech computer system. I also have a strong knowledge of past computer systems and the three conversions we went through.” In an all-Republican field for Tuesday’s primary, Hurless will face no option during this November’s general election. As all three candidates had expressed during last week’s forum, sponsored by J-Ad Graphics, Inc., and held at the Commission on Aging in Hastings, the office is a technical one and not easily understood by the electorate. “I think if we could have had a few more people at the public forum we might have Thornapple River Expedition focuses on environmental awareness The Thornapple River Expedition heads under the McKeown Street Bridge near Thornapple Manor on Wednesday morning when nearly 100 canoes and kayaks made the journey by river from Charlton Park to Tyden Park. In the afternoon, the flotilla paddled on to Whispering Waters Campground on Irving Road. The paddlers began their six-day 67-mile excursion from the Thornapple’s headwaters, east of Vermontville, to its merger with the Grand River in Ada. For more about the excursion, see this Saturday’s Reminder. �Page 2 — Thursday, August 9, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Prairieville Township OKs millage renewals Voters in Prairieville Township generously approved two millages in Tuesday’s primary election. Renewal of a .8174 mil police protection millage passed with a 62 percent approval rate, 368 yes votes to 225 opposed. A similar renewal of a .9087 mil road millage was approved 400-190 and a request for an additional .9559 mil fire protection millage was approved 354-240. County Supervisor Jim Stoneburner was unopposed for reelection and received 350 votes. Newcomer Ted DeVries unseated incumbent Clerk Normajean Campbell Nichols by a 274-197 margin and incumbent Treasurer Kasandra McGuire drew 349 votes in an unopposed run. Incumbent trustees Rod Goebel and Jim Grundy were unopposed for two open trustee seats, and Rebecca Kahler was unchallenged for a seat to the Prairieville Township Park Commission. Incumbent clerk and treasurer hang on in Carlton Township Clerk Michele Erb will remallenger Elsie McKelvey 243 to 150. Results are unofficial as of press time. In a wide margin, incumbent Treasurer Marlene Forman defeated challenger Victoria Steadman 341 to 56. Supervisor Bradley Carpenter ran unopposed, receiving 342 votes while trustees Cary Smith and Gary VandeCar each had 247 votes. A 1.5 mill fire renewal passed 263-89. Incumbent Assyria Johnstown Twp. Township clerk holds off retains clerk challengers Incumbent Johnstown Township clerk June Doster held off challengers Abbie Bishop and Trisha Poley garnering 183 (51.26 percent) votes to their 77 (21.57 percent) and 97 (27.17 percent) votes respectively. Incumbent trustee Karen Doster held on to one of two seats available in the election by garnering 186 ( 34.25 percent) votes. Newcomer Jeffery Warren took the second seat with 204 (37.57 percent) votes, while Deana Powell lost her bid for a seat on the board with 153 (28.18 percent) votes. Incumbents, supervisor Barbara Earl and treasurer Karmen Nickerson, ran unopposed and were re-elected. Johnstown voters approved the renewal of the four-year .3 mill levy to support Dowling District Library by a 242 (68.36 percent) to 112 (31.64 percent) vote. Incumbent supervisor defeated in Hope Township Incumbent Hope Township supervisor Patricia Albert, who was first elected to the post in 1996 was defeated by challenger Mark Feldpausch, by a 279 (59.11 percent) to 192 (40.68 percent) vote. Incumbents clerk Deborah Jackson, treasurer Arlene Tonkin, and trustees David Messelink and Meryl Peake ran unopposed and were re-elected to their posts. Township voters approved the renewal road millage by a 395 (74.11 percent) to 138 (25.89 percent) vote; and the fire millage renewal by a 421 (78.99 percent) to 112 (21.01) percent vote. Orangeville voters renew road millage, elect treasurer and trustees Orangeville Township voters voted 195 (67.24 percent) to 95 (32.76 percent) to renew the township’s four-year 1.5 mill levy for roads. Incumbent Orangeville Clerk Jennifer Goy and incumbent trustees Robert Perino and Linda Ribble ran unopposed and were reelected to their posts. However, incumbent supervisor, Republican Thomas Rook and incumbent treasurer, Democrat Vicki Ritchie, will have to wait until November to find out whether they will retain their seats on the township board. During the primary Rook took 223 votes, while Democratic challenger George Williston, took 73 votes. In the treasurer’s race Ritchie garnered 77 votes. Baltimore Township approves library millage renewal Clerk Deborah Massimino holds on to the position in Assyria Township, defeating challenger Daniel Bivens, 117 to 87. Running unopposed Supervisor Mike Timmons received 171 votes, Treasurer Elizabeth Miller, 184, and trustees James Miller, 157, and Eugene Waterbury, 137. These are unofficial results, which were available at press time. Barry Township renews two millages, supervisor defeats challenger Barry Township voters approved the renewal of the township’s fire protection millage by a 378 to 159 vote and the renewal of its police protection millage by a 344 to 194 vote. Incumbent Supervisor Wes Kahler held off opponent Jim Patterson by a 226 to 193 vote (54 to 46 percent). Incumbents Clerk Debra Knight and Treasurer Judith Wooer ran unopposed and were re-elected to their respective posts. Three newcomers, James Alden, Ricky Lawrence and Ingrid Pagano vied for two available trustee seats on the township board. Alden and Lawrence were awarded the seats garnering 203 and 224 votes respectively. Pagano missed earning a place on the board with 177 votes. Going to the polls Voters Tuesday congregated at their township halls all across Barry County. Rutland Township, where this photo was taken, was the focus of a hotly contested supervisor’s race. Knight wins top post in Irving Township Bill Miller Baltimore Township voters approved the renewal of a four-year .3 mill levy to support Dowling Public Library. The millage is estimated to raise $28,093 for the library the first year. The millage was passed by a vote of 178, or 66 percent, to 88, or 33 percent. Supervisor candidate Bill Miller, who ran unopposed when incumbent Ron Miller chose not to seek re-election, will assume the post in January. Newcomer treasurer candidate Mary Baker also was unopposed after current treasurer Jennifer makeover decided not to seek reelection. Incumbent township Clerk Penny Ypma ran unopposed and was re-elected to the post. Only one candidate, Arthur DeFields, ran and was elected to one of two trustee seats on the township board. It will now be up to the board to appoint someone in January to fill the vacant seat until the next election cycle. By Julie Makarewicz Staff writer Voters chose Jamie Knight for Irving Township supervisor over opponent Charlie Boulter in Tuesday’s primary. Knight gained just 14 votes more than Boulter, according to unofficial results posted by the Barry County clerk’s office Wednesday morning. Knight received 235 votes to Boulter’s 221 votes. “I’m very excited and very appreciative of all the people who came out to vote. We both ran good, clean campaigns,” said Knight. Knight wants to focus on better use of the Internet, establishing a township website and maintaining communications. She served the last two years as the township deputy clerk. Elected without opposition in Irving Township are: Incumbent Clerk Carol Ergang, 418 votes; incumbent Treasurer Lynnette Wingeier, 424 votes; and trustee (2 seats) - Larry Brummel Jr., 311 votes; and George London, 309 votes. Voters also approved a four-year renewal of 1.5 mills for the fire department with a vote of 273 to 144. Hastings Township board re-elected Hastings Township voters re-elected a full slate of unopposed incumbents during Tuesday’s primary election. Supervisor Jim Brown, Clerk Anita Mennell, Treasurer Jenee Phillips, and trustees Ron Mennell, William Wetzel, James Partridge, and Keith Murphy were all re-elected. Details dominate county board business 07606435 by Doug VanderLaan Editor Huddling over several commonplace details in the county’s budget game plan, Barry County Commissioners spent most of Tuesday’s Committee of the Whole meeting using sharp pencils and pointed questions to process their agenda items – but not without some humor too. On a recommendation to amend a county zoning ordinance that would create guidelines and classifications for new nursing homes, commissioners learned that the current zoning ordinance has no provisions for new nursing homes. “So, then Thornapple Manor must be illegal?” quipped Commissioner Robert Houtman of the current 23-bed construction project expanding the county nursing home. In the absence of Planning and Zoning Director James McManus, due to illness, the commission turned to audience member Jack Miner, a member of the county planning commission, for interpretation. “It allows nursing homes in certain areas and, this one, I agreed with,” reported Miner of the proposed zoning ordinance amendment and the planning commission’s vote July 23 to recommend it for county board approval. Though commissioners did request additional clarification, the 7-0 vote to approve recommendation to the full board at next week’s official meeting Aug. 14 will allow for additional discussion prior to final approval. A second zoning amendment approved for recommendation to the full board will allow group day care to be permitted on property zoned agricultural and rural residential. Other items approved by unanimous vote – with Chairman Craig Stolsonburg absent – for official board action Aug. 14 were: • A three-year agreement with MGT of America, Inc. to provide indirect cost accounting services at an annual cost of $12,000, an expense that is included in the current budget. The county has annually submitted reports to the state on individual department costs, a percentage of which can be applied to a variety of state and federal grants. MGT of America, Inc. will – as did the previous provider, Maximus – provide cost analyses leading to a percentage of time and cost that can be applied to the grants awarded to the county. The change of providers, as presented by Deputy County Administrator Luella Dennison, is recommended due to the familiarity with the county that cost analysts have who have recently transferred from Maximus to MGT of America, Inc. The move will also provide a $1,000 per year cost savings after both companies submitted Request for Proposals as presented by the county. • A resolution to provide permanent cost of living increases to two sheriff’s department command officers, who retired under a previous contract containing this provision. • Renewal of an agreement with Professional Benefits Services, Inc., to administer the county’s self-funded short term disability plan. The renewal includes a price increase from the current $2.05 per employee per month to $2.15 per employee per month. • A budget amendment that increases the general fund revenue and expenditure budgets by $6,471, reflecting: Previously unknown expenses to the Health and Safety Fund offset by the revenue increase for the cigarette tax; an increase to the Airport Appropriation to correct an effort in the original amount budgeted; an Economic Development appropriation for dues to participate in the West Michigan Regional Planning Commission as approved by the board June 12; a salary increase for the district court judge, as approved by the commission July 24; and special revenue adjustments reflecting amendments to the Remonumentation Funds, the Economic Development Fund, and the Airport Fund. • A change to the bylaws of the Animal Control/Shelter Advisory board allowing monthly meetings to be held on the third Wednesday of each month rather than the first. “On some months it will give us an opportunity to come to the Committee of the Whole sooner,” with issues needing county board consideration, said Kathy Wiggins, ACSAB chair. Under the current system, in which Committee of the Whole meetings are held the first and third Tuesdays of each month, the ACSAB could be forced to wait two weeks before being able to address the board following an ACSAB meeting. • Approved a $32,262 bid from McKeough Brothers, Inc., for housing quality standard rehabilitation of a home located at 314 S. Park St. in Hastings to be paid from HOME Grant Funds, a program administered by the Michigan State Housing Development Authority. Commissioners quizzed HOME Program Director Marilyn Smith about the altered contractor bidding process due to original project costs exceeding MISHDA grant limits. Smith reported that the McKeough Brothers bid was the lowest even after eliminating a downstairs bathroom, carpeting, and appliances from the project. “Even with taking those things out, it wouldn’t have changed the bidding,” reported Smith, who also stated that the eliminated items and subsequent bid alteration was approved by MISHDA. “I have some concerns on the process we go through,” said Commissioner Ben Geiger, substituting as chair for Stolsonburg. “As long as this meets MISHDA code or policy, I think we should go forward, but I don’t think we’re comfortable doing it this way.” The commission will convene its official meeting Tuesday, Aug. 14 at 9 a.m. in commission chambers at the county courthouse. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 9, 2012 — Page 3 Freeport Homecoming full of fun The main drag in Freeport is lined with classic cars for Saturday’s Summer Homecoming celebration. The inflatable slides and bounce house attract families during Freeport Homecoming. Jim Halliwill with his Freeport Homecoming Best of Show winner 1950 Ford. (photo by Lori Silsbee) Lyle Gordon receives the Judge's Choice Award from Circuit Court Judge Amy McDowell. (photo by Lori Silsbee) 77570092 The big spooky orange truck shot T-shirts out into the crowd from an air cannon mounted in it’s bed. Freeport Homecoming visitors enjoyed music throughout the day and evening. �Page 4 — Thursday, August 9, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Dragon Landing Primary election results left up to just over 20 percent of voters Photographer friend Jodi White sent along this photo of a dragonfly hovering in the garden at the Susan and Philip Gillespie farm on Center Road in Hastings. The dragonfly’s double-winged construction makes it one of the fastest insects in existence. Early 20th century English-Austrailian entomologist Robert Tillyard claimed to have recorded one flying at nearly 60 mph. Dragonflies are important predators that eat mosquitoes, flies, bees, ants, and wasps and tend to be wetland creatures because their larvae, known as nymphs, are aquatic. Some 5,680 different species are known in the world today. “No matter how often I walk around there,” says Jodi of her sister and brother-in-law’s farm, “I always find a lot to take pictures of!” Do you know? Fire drill Do you recognize this photo that appeared in a long-ago issue of the Banner? The original photo, pulled from our archives identifies one of the gentlemen as “Harry Hayes, Fire Chief.” But which one is Chief Hayes? And what department are the two gentlemen from? What is the exercise they’re performing? The fire engine itself is a classic – but what year and model might it be? The history of firefighting makes for a fascinating study and details in the photo might tip off an observer to the era in which this photo was taken. One of the boxes on the running board appears to be labeled “Gas Masks” and the pipes at the last are, apparently, water pipes for pre-filling the truck’s hoses. The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names, or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event to reunite the photos with their original clip- pings or identify photos that may never have been used. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@j-adgraphics.com; or call 269-9459554. We received no response on last week’s photo from Barth Studio of an apparent bike safety or bike parade in which some 50 children posed. Apparently, the biker gang is still on the run. Lakewood designated as ‘Reward School’ Lakewood High School is the only school in the Ionia Intermediate School District to make the Reward School list. The high school was in the top 5 percent of schools making the greatest academic progress over the previous four years. The Michigan Department of Education recently released its 2011-12 top-to-bottom ranking for all Michigan schools. The main measure of progress is student scores on the ACT exam given in the spring to all juniors. Lakewood has improved its ACT composite scores from 18.2 in 2007 to 20.5 in 2011. The increase in student achievement is a credit, not only to the high school staff, but the entire teaching staff at Lakewood Public School, said Lakewood Superintendent Mike O’Mara. The high school staff has worked vigorously to improve in their implementa- tion of the Michigan Merit Curriculum, and it shows, he said. “A continued focus on student learning will help us stay on the path of continuous improvement,” said O’Mara. “Congratulations to the high school teachers, support staff and administration.” According to the MDE announcement on its website on Aug. 2, more than 280 schools in Michigan have been designated as Reward Schools for either high student achievement or making tremendous progress in student achievement. Reward Schools is one of three new designations that came as the result of Michigan receiving flexibility in the federal No Child Left Behind Act from the U.S. Department of Education. “We applaud the hard work and achievement of the educators and students in our Castleton Twp. board unopposed Without challengers, the slate on the Castleton Township ballot was re-elected in Tuesday’s primary election. Cheryl L. Hartwell captured 269 votes for the supervisor’s post. Township Clerk Lorna Wilson received 273 votes. Dorothy M. Semrau was re-elected treasurer with 274 votes. Trustee posts were captured by Michael Trahan, with 198, and Earl M. Wilson, 214. All are Republicans without Democratic challengers in November. Auditions, Auditions, Auditions! The Thornapple Players will hold auditions on Tuesday, August 14 at 7PM for William Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” in Barry Community Enrichment Center (former Leason Sharpe Hall) located at 231 South Broadway in Hastings There are 20 roles both principal and supporting for high school seniors through adults. Anyone in Barry County or the surrounding areas is welcome to audition. No preparation is necessary. Performance dates are: October 11 - 14 Norma Jean Acker is directing. www.thornappleplayers.com 07606406 If you are interested and unable to attend auditions call Norma Jean at 269-945-2332 (PRIOR to Aug. 14) Reward Schools because they are zeroed in on improving learning,” said state Superintendent of Public Instruction Mike Flanagan. “We need to instill that goal in so many more schools, in order to help all kids be career- and college-ready and successful in life.” State News Roundup Tax-foreclosed properties to be auctioned in 12 counties More than 700 properties, in five lower Michigan counties and seven Northern Michigan counties, will be auctioned off during State of Michigan Tax-Foreclosed, Real Property Auctions Aug. 14-15. Registration for interested bidders will begin at 9 a.m. each day, with auctions scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. Nearly 400 parcels, located in Dickinson, Iosco, Iron, Kalkaska, Keweenaw, Luce, and Mecosta counties, will go to auction Aug. 14 at the Ramada Inn Grayling, located at 2650 Business Loop South I-75 in Grayling. More than 360 properties, located in Branch, Clinton, Eaton, Livingston, and Shiawassee counties, will go to auction Aug. 15 at the Ramada Lansing Hotel & Conference Center, located at 7501 W. Saginaw Highway in Lansing. Properties being auctioned have been foreclosed due to delinquent property taxes. Parcels may be vacant residential or commercial lots, or may have occupied or abandoned structures on them. Potential bidders assume the responsibility to conduct due diligence with the municipality in which the property is located. For more information on the properties available, auction rules and regulations, Frequently Asked Questions, and past auction results, visit www.michigan.gov/propertyforeclosures. Lists of offered parcels are also available at the respective county treasurer’s office. The election is behind us, the results are in and a handful of voters made the choice for who they want to represent us. Looking back at the local races, I think some candidates took their positions for granted in that they ignored the basic rule of campaigning – that of educating their constituents. On the positive side, based on an unofficial count, there were 146 local candidates running for 106 positions in the county. The Banner news department sent letters to every candidate throughout the county requesting personal information along with a list of questions, which included why the candidate was running and their positions on the important issues. The response was disappointing, to say the least. I originally didn’t have plans to write about the lack of response this week, until the Banner received a comment on our web site that gave merit to the time and effort we put into last week’s election issue. “We need a Hastings Banner in Ionia,” wrote Darlene and Kenneth Thompson, of Ionia County, in a post that had a number of assenting follow-ups. “We have absolutely no good reporting here, comparatively speaking, no way to get the Truth out, no investigative journalism. My husband and I would love to get a paper out like The Hastings Banner here in Ionia County that does more than write puff editorial political views, high school sports, and feel good photos. People need to know what's really going on in their government!" It was our position that voters needed some basic information about each candidate, even the incumbents without challengers. From our perspective, if you’re running for a public office you have a responsibility to inform your constituency on what you stand for. We gave ‘all’ the candidates the opportunity to educate and to inform voters about the expertise they bring to the job. Our extensive local coverage is something fewer news agencies are willing to offer today but as a local newspaper company, we feel it’s the best way to achieve good government – by giving voters the information they need to make the best choice. J-Ad Graphics also sponsored two candidate forums along with the support of the Commission on Aging, which provided the venue. Both of the forums, the first for county prosecutor and the second for register of deeds were poorly attended. Yet, they allowed us to get the story of the event on the front pages of our next issue. Former Congressmen Vern Ehlers once pointed out to me the value and the importance of political campaigns. Ehlers said a campaign gave him a chance to return to his district, to get out and to talk with voters about the important topics of the day. Because he spent a great deal of time in Washington, Ehlers told me that he never took for granted the value of talking one-on-one with voters. I think that perspective gave him a feeling of confidence knowing that his district supported him on most of the positions he supported during his years of service. If you read our election section, I’m sure you noticed a number of candidates that decided not to return our request for information. As a voter, it appeared that these candidates didn’t care or – worse yet – didn’t have a position on local issues and were unwilling to give their opinions. When we began the discussions with our staff on how best to inform the voters about the candidates, we decided to break the races up and to ask each candidate in the race to discuss their specific issues. As you can see from the response we received from the Thompsons in Ionia, there is value in getting information about the candidates to voters so they can make an intelligent decision on who should represent them. Another concern we had was the large number of races where candidates ran unopposed in places like Baltimore Township where two trustee seats were open yet only one candidate was running for office. In Prairieville Township, five seats were open on the township parks commission, but only two applied. Even the Barry County sheriff ran unopposed. Are voters so disillusioned with government that they feel there’s little they can do to change things so they’re turned off by the system? Based on the election, changes were made, but the outcomes were decided by a small number of the electorate. Yet, I’m not sure how you raise the number of citizens to take part in the process – that’s what matters most. For the most part, I think voters are concerned with local government because it seems to be the only place their voice can still be heard, despite the growing number of voters who have the impression that our elected officials are legislating with little or no regard as to what their constituencies want. According to Jonathan Stray, one of the authors of Pushing to the Future of Journalism, said the Associated Press produces about 15,000 original text stories every day (and syndicates many times that number) — far more than one person can consume. But the giants of journalism are dwarfed by the collaborative authorship of the Internet. There are currently 72 hours of video uploaded to You Tube every minute, which now houses more video than was produced during the entire 20th century. There are 400 million tweets per day, meaning that if only one tweet in a million was worthwhile you could still spend your entire day on Twitter. And, there are several times more web pages than people in the world, according to the Associated Press. Since the addition of the Internet, voters don’t have a problem finding all kinds of information about candidates at all levels, except local candidates. Yet, it’s been our determination to inform our readers about the local races – with all the coverage being local, local, local. Former President Franklin D. Roosevelt once said, “Democracy cannot succeed unless those who express their choice are prepared to choose wisely. The real safeguard of democracy, therefore, is education” We spent our time, talent, ink, and paper on educating voters about the candidates they have to choose from so they could make an intelligent decision. Let’s hope the 21 percent who voted made an educated decision. Fred Jacobs, vice president of J-Ad Graphics Woodland Township has a new supervisor Jeffrey MacKenzie is the new supervisor, beginning in January, for Woodland Township. He defeated Kenny Bump 130 to 96. Supervisor David Bursley did not seek reelection. In uncontested races, incumbents Clerk What do you think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website, www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. Next week’s political primary will likely draw less than 25% of eligible voters. Do you plan to vote? 87% 13% Yes No Nancy Stanton garnered 210 votes; Treasurer Nancy Potter, 238; trustees Stephen DeMaagd, 172 votes and Page Neustifter, 198. Totals are unofficial as of press time. Voters renewed a 2 mill four-year proposal to cover fire, cemetery and township expenses by a vote of 207 to 82. For this week: The Michigan Supreme Court ruled this week to place the state’s controversial financial emergency manager law for troubled municipalities and school districts on the Nov. 6 ballot. How will you vote? q q FOR AGAINST �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 9, 2012 — Page 5 Humane Society responds to letter writer IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV Writer defends Obama remarks To the editor: Your recent editorial extensively criticized President Obama for his statement about the role of government in business. The president explained that when he said, “You didn’t build that,” he was referring to the roads, bridges and schools he had just mentioned in his previous sentence. His explanation is a reasonable one and I believe your interpretation is inaccurate. The president did not, as you suggested, make light of how a business begins, or claim that a business is built primarily from the outside by the government. Your suggestion that the president’s remarks said to the young people, who raised animals as part of 4-H projects, that their accomplishments were someone else’s doing, was a real stretch. We all know that good schools, adequate roads and dependable bridges are necessary for business success. In a non-election year it isn’t even controversial. We need to keep our focus on what we need and what we can afford. Mike Humphreys, Battle Creek Dust problem solved To the editor: I would like to thank the Johnstown Township Board for stepping up and amending the problem we had with the dust control. I’m sure I’m not the only one who appreciates it. Carolyn Newberry, Battle Creek Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. The Hastings Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Bonnie Mattson • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 To the Editor, As current board members of the Barry County Humane Society, we feel compelled to respond to last week’s letter to the editor, titled “Incumbent Commissioners Should be Replaced,” written by Sandra VanDenburg, The letter was fraught with untruths and misinformation and we would like to address each issue raised, one by one. The Barry County Humane Society has been serving citizens of Barry County and their pets for over 50 years. We offer humane education programs to the 2nd graders of all area schools and help to educate the public on pet care, spaying and neutering, and humane treatment of all animals, among many other areas of need. Our financial assistance to lower income families who need to get their pets spayed or neutered has helped thousands of Barry County citizens over the years. Additionally, we can now make spaying or neutering dogs even more affordable, thanks to a grant recently awarded to the BCHS. We continue to reach out to the community to spread the word about these opportunities as we have done for years, so that we can help to get as many dogs and cats fixed as possible, ultimately leading to fewer animals entering the animals shelter in the first place, thus saving taxpayer dollars. Every February, we sponsor Spay Day, when any Barry County resident calling in that day to our office will receive $20 off the spaying or neutering of their pets without having to prove financial need. We can refer people who are overwhelmed with feral or stray cats to resources where they can get help. We offer a “litter” program, where the BCHS will pay the entire cost of spaying or neutering of the mother dog or cat when their litters are surrendered to the Barry County Animal Shelter, saving taxpayers the costs of maintaining and euthanizing those animals and significantly reducing the feral population of cats within the community. Our “pets for seniors program” will pay for Incumbent Supervisor Jim Carr wins in Rutland Township Supervisor and trustee races heated up Rutland Township in Tuesday’s election. Unofficial results as of press time revealed incumbent Jim Carr with 354 votes defeating Joe Lyons, 259. Clerk Robin Hawthorne, 506 ran unnopposed as did Treasurer Sandra Greenfield, 503. Five candidates vied for four positions as trustees, narrowly edging out Robert Lee with 312 votes was Marlin Walters who won with 315. Brenda Bellmore had the most votes with 375 followed by Bill Hanshaw, 338 and Dorothy Flint 327. Millages pass in Maple Grove Township Unofficial primary results available at press-time reveal voters in Maple Grove Township voted to renew three millages of 1 mill each for the fire and ambulance department equipment: yes-188, no-39, emergency medical operations: yes-146, no-79 and dust control and maintenance, yes-188, no-37. The .5 mill renewal for Putnam District Library was also renewed yes-490, no-139. In uncontested races incumbents Supervisor Rodney Crothers garnered 160 votes, Clerk Susie Butler- 174, Treasurer Ginger Cole-170, Trustees James Heyboaer131 and Doug Westendorp-158. Yankee Springs Township has new supervisor With the retirement of Supervisor Al McCrumb a field of four contenders arose in Yankee Springs Township. All Republicans, Mark Englerth wins the top spot receiving the majority of votes with 329. Englerth defeated opposers Alice Jansma with 296, Tom Wallace, 174 and Warren Wheeler, 141. Incumbents Janice Lippert defeated challenger Kebra Brush 475 to 438 for the clerk position and John Jerkatis Jr. defeated Donald Berry 478 to 432 for treasurer. Two trustee positions are open. The top two Republican candidates receiving the most votes were Bruce Campbell with 516 over incumbent Mary Cook, 463. Paul Heystek had 311 and incumbent Al Schwennesen had 192. Democrat Shanon VandenBerg will be among the field on the November ballot. These results are unofficial as of press time. the spaying or neutering and initial veterinarian costs for any animal adopted from the Barry County Animal Shelter by a senior citizen 62 and over who qualifies within the financial guidelines. The BCHS offers a pet food pantry to anyone in need of food for their pets on a temporary basis and we supply meals to seniors for their pets through the COA’S Meals on Wheels program. Financial aid for veterinary care for pets is available to lower income families in emergency situations on a limited basis. These are but a few of the services we have offered to our community for the past several years, helping to feed and assist thousands of animals in need. Kathy Wiggins had been a dedicated unpaid volunteer for the BCHS for more than 10 years and was instrumental in the building of the current animal shelter. She then was asked to be the consulting coordinator for the Humane Society, a position she successfully filled for seven years. This has been the Humane Society’s only paid position. We were lucky to have her as she skillfully and professionally implemented and administered many important programs that assisted the citizens of Barry County and their pets. Her grant writing skills provided the funds to keep much needed programs available. And yes, she did answer the phone during those seven years, and in doing so, helped countless people in need of caring for their pets. Additionally, Kathy’s public speaking skills provided essential humane education to thousands over the years, making Barry County a better place for both the people and the animals. Kathy’s fundraising abilities were beyond measure, and she organized and managed the office efficiently. At the end of last year, we had to eliminate Kathy’s position due to dwindling donations. Now the office is staffed by only volunteers, and there are no paid employees. Caring volunteers have helped pets at the shelters, animal control facilities, and rescues across the state and nationwide to find loving, forever homes. They have implemented effective adoption and volunteer programs to include the community with great proven success. Volunteers and community involvement are essential and invaluable to save both taxpayer dollars and the lives of wonderful, adoptable pets, just as they were the key elements in building the shelter which stands today. In regard to liability, many other animal control departments in Michigan, having the same liability as Barry County, utilize volunteers in their shelters to operate programs to enhance marketing and adoption of animals. All volunteers must be properly oriented and trained for handling animals and for the interaction with the inmates who perform the kennel duties. Rules and procedures for volunteer participation will be established and enforced by the director, as in other counties. In regard to the reorganized animal control structure and modeling after Kalamazoo County, Barry County Animal Control and its shelter function were reorganized by the Barry County Board of Commissioners. They recently adopted a hybrid management model with elements taken from both Kalamazoo and Allegan counties. The sheriff will continue to perform enforcement with one officer (from Allegan model). The new Barry County Shelter director and two other current employees will manage the shelter and adoptions (from Kalamazoo model). The reorganization in Barry County is not connected to license or adoption fees. The expectation is that the costs to the county will be reduced and revenues will increase as euthanasia is decreased and adoptions are increased. Faster and more adoptions will result in less cost, not more. Allegan County contracts with a 501( c )3 nonprofit organization to manage their shelter and adoptions. In contrast, the Barry County director, two existing employees and existing inmate workers will operate the shelter while volunteers from the community will help with marketing and adoption of the animals. There will not be an increase in the number of county employees. The recommendation of the Kalamazoo Animal Control director to hire two more officers would probably be a workable prescription in Kalamazoo, where the Humane Society and rescue organizations are “amicable partners” in adoption and placement. Prior to reorganization, Barry County’s animal control function did not enjoy that amicable relationship between the sheriff, rescue organizations, the Humane Society and volunteers. Adding two more officers in Barry County under the previous management model would have resulted in more enforcement and more cost rather than emphasizing the other 50 percent of the picture – shelter operation and adoptions. Regarding the compensation for the new director, there has been a fair amount of confusion in the community about the terms ‘total compensation costs’, ‘salary’, and ‘operational costs’. Total compensation for any county employee consists of the salary and the benefits package (health insurance, pension, etc.). Uniforms and equipment are not part of employee compensation, but rather are operational costs of particular jobs. The approved job description for the new director position currently is under evaluation by an outside firm to determine which salary grade is appropriate. The budgeted compensation money from a vacant position within the animal control function is expected to provide the majority, if not all, of the funding for the compensation of the director position. The board of commissioners must approve the salary evaluation before recruitment may begin. Benefit costs will depend on what plan the new employee chooses as is true with any other county employee. In regard to “wanting to take control of the law enforcement side of Animal Control”, the new director will be deputized and trained to perform enforcement on a secondary basis to the sheriff’s department’s animal control officer. When needed, the director would be dispatched by the sheriff’s department. Under Michigan Law, animal control directors/officers are (narrowly) empowered to enforce the dog law. Sheriffs throughout the state specially deputize these animal control employees to enforce this specific law. In comparison, Michigan sheriff departments are empowered to enforce any Michigan law, including the Michigan dog law. This special deputizing will not result in a takeover of enforcement from the sheriff. Conversely, it will complement and back up the sheriff’s enforcement function. In conclusion, the Humane Society wants an on-site area for volunteers. The multi-purpose room was designated in the original plans for the shelter with the specific purpose of being a place from which volunteers could work, plus a room in which potential adopters could interact with the cats and dogs. The Humane Society simply wants the room used as originally designated, not a so called “room with a view.” And yes, we would like the name to be changed back to “Barry County Animal Shelter” as this will more correctly define the mission of the new and improved animal shelter. We hope this rather lengthy letter will explain, define and correct the multitude of errors and misinformation found in Ms. VanDenburg’s letter. Mary A. Fisher, Kay Doyle, Cindy Huisman, Carol Mantle and Donna Seymour Barry County Humane Society Hastings Dr Carrie Wilgus is pleased to announce the addition of a new Mid-Level Provider to her team! Please welcome to our team: Christi Bush PA-C. Christi is a board certified physician assistant who received her degree from Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Christi grew up in Bay City Michigan. After high school, Christi attended Alma College where she received her degree in Psychology. For seven years, Christi worked as a social worker serving the community of Tuscola County in Michigan. She later began practicing in the Bay City area as a physician assistant, where she has spent the past year and a half caring for children at a local medical office specializing in pediatrics. Christi now calls Hastings home and is looking forward to becoming a part of our small community. As a board certified physician assistant, Christi will provide services in the office and hospital setting. She is qualified to treat children from birth to adolescence, providing medical services from: Preventative Services, Well Exams, Behavior and Attention Problems, to management of Chronic Illnesses. Christi is now accepting appointments for new and established patients Monday-Thursday 9am - 5pm and Fridays 1pm - 5pm. Dr Carrie Wilgus and Christi Bush, PA-C Now Accepting NEW PATIENTS! Hastings Pediatrics 1761 W. M-43 Hwy., Suite 2 Hastings, MI 490588 Phone: 269-948-7337 Fax: 269-948-9976 Office Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8am - 5pm �Page 6 — Thursday, August 9, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Call anytime to place your Hastings Banner classified ad Area Obituaries 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 Julie Ann Olsen Worship Together… Myra “Lisa” Skidmore Kate Bennett 77569716 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Rev. Ryan Wieland. Sundays - 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Service; Sunday School and Nursery available during both services (Summer Schedule - Adult Sunday School: 9 a.m., Worship & Children’s Programs 10 a.m.) Youth Group, Covenant Prayer, Choir, Chimes, Praise Band, Quilting Group, Community Breakfasts and more! Call the church office at (269) 721-8077 (M/W/F 9 a.m.-12 p.m.), e-mail office@mei.net or visit www.countrychapelumc.org <http://www.countrychapelumc.org/> for more information SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 . CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 8:45 a.m. Traditional Worship; 10 a.m. Refreshments; 10:45 a.m. Contemporary Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Youth Pastor, Eric Gillespie. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. for children and youth, and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Junior & Senior High Youth Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Mid-Week Pioneers and adult classes return in September. Thursday: Senior Adult Bible Study at 10 a.m. and lunch at Wendy’s, 11:30 a.m. Vacation Bible School: Wed. & Thurs., July 25 & 26, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Sunday, August 12 - Worship Service 8 and 10 a.m. August 12 Youth Group Event 4-6 p.m.; Men’s Alcoholics Anonymous 7 p.m. August 13 - Spiritual Alcoholics Anonymous 7:30 p.m. August 14 Vision Team 7 p.m. August 16 Altar Guild Meeting 7 p.m.; Gracegram Deadline. August 18 Social Activities Gold Outing 3:30 p.m. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 9452645, fax 269-945-2698. Pastor Amy Luckey. http://www.discover-grace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service; 1 p.m. Youth Group Meeting - Tubing. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot. com. Friday - 9 a.m. Golfer’s Group Meets; 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday - 4 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Lauer Family Funeral Homes 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings Fiberglass Products 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 HASTINGS, MI - Julie Ann Olsen (also known as Kat), age 34, of Hastings, passed away June 22, 2012 at her residence in Mt. Washington, KY. She was born July 23, 1977 in Eaton Rapids, the daughter of Janet A. Olsen of Waunakee, WI and Richard W. Olsen of Grand Ledge. She is survived by two daughters, Selena M. Olsen, age 15, and Alexandretta J. Billings, age 13; her mother, Janet Olsen; her father, Richard Olsen; her brother, Kevin Olsen; her aunts, Rita Dickson and Roberta Hand; and uncle, Russell Olsen, as well as cousins and two very dear friends, Lori and Wes Pion, who acted as Mom and Dad over the past several years. Julie loved her daughters very much. Reading, watching movies, playing computer games, swimming and hunting were some of the activities Julie enjoyed. Respecting her wishes, cremation has taken place. There will be a visiting hour from 1 - 2 p.m. as well as a memorial service at 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, August 22, 2012 at Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. In lieu of flowers, for those who wish, the family offers that donations can be made to The New England Children’s Village www.salemchildrensvillage.org. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message to the family. Robert Haywood HASTINGS, MI - Robert Haywood, age 73, a lifelong resident of Hastings passed away August 6, 2012 after hospitalization in Hastings and Grand Rapids and acute care in Plainwell. The youngest son of Ray and Meta Haywood, he was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Marilyn; and his brother, Don. He is survived by his stepchildren; sisters, Rose McMellen and Marieta (Ritas) Walter; brother, Gene and special friend Mable Denniston. Robert served in the U.S. Army, he was stationed in Germany. Robert worked as a foreman at Hastings Manufacturing. He always had a passion for helping out at the family farm. He loved watching sports and fishing. A graveside ceremony will be held at East Hickory Corners Cemetery, time and date will be announced on our web page where you may leave a message or memory to the family.www.girrbachfuneralhome.net. Arrangements are by the Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. You are invited... to check out the large selection of wedding and graduation invitations and stationary at Printing Plus 1351 N. M-43 Hwy. just north of Hastings city limits Myra “Lisa” Skidmore passed away on August 6, 2012 at Spectrum Butterworth in Grand Rapids at the age of 61 years. She was born on January 25, 1951 in Charlotte, MI to Andree and Mildred M. (Potter) Verhelle. She graduated with honors from Eaton Rapids High School in 1969. She married Glenn Skidmore in Eaton Rapids on June 21, 1969 and last month celebrated their 43rd anniversary. Lisa was formerly employed at Al & Pete’s Sport Shop and was involved with the Thornapple Valley Turkey Federation. She was an avid outdoors woman who was passionate about archery, hunting, fishing and mushrooming. Her hobbies included refinishing antique furniture, cross-stitching, sewing and enjoyed spending time at Walt Disney World with her family. She is survived by her husband Glenn; daughter, Jeanette (Michael) Pickard of Hastings; son, James (Stephanie) Skidmore of Hastings; grandchildren, Amber and Kylie Pickard, Ethan, Ryan and Meghan Skidmore; brothers, Wayne Verhelle, David Verhelle, Dennis Verhelle, Ronald Verhelle and Roland Verhelle; mother-in-law, Marie Skidmore; brother-in-law, Gary (Lorie) Skidmore. She was preceded in death by her parents; and father-in-law, George Skidmore. Lisa’s family will receive friends on Thursday, August 9, 2012, from 6-8 p.m. at Lauer Family Funeral Homes- Wren Chapel, 1401 N. Broadway in Hastings. Funeral services will be held on Friday, August 10, 2012 at 11 a.m. at the Funeral Home with Pastor Ralph Barton officiating. Interment will follow in Lakeview Cemetery in Nashville. In lieu of flowers, family requests that you please consider the American Cancer Society for memorial contributions. Please share a memory with Lisa’s family at www.lauerfh.com. FAMILY FUNERAL HOMES Norma Jean (Hollister) Burns ANN ARBOR, MI - Norma Jean (Hollister) Burns, age 82, deeply loved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully at her home in Ann Arbor on August 1, 2012 with her son by her side. Norma was born on July 31, 1930, in Hastings, to Jacob and Eva (Reid) Hollister, and graduated from Hastings High School in 1948, where she met the love of her life, James A. Burns. They married in 1951, just after Jim graduated from the University of Michigan, and together moved to Ann Arbor, where James Jr. arrived four years later. In addition to being a full-time mom, Norma was active in the Dicken Elementary and Slauson Jr. High PTOs, worked at the Ann Arbor Board of Realtors and a number of realty firms in town, and obtained her real estate license. She loved playing bridge, cheering on the Wolverines at every basketball home game, and traveling with her friends, and always had a smile for everyone. Norma was preceded in death by Jim Sr. and her parents. She is survived by her son, Jim (Lori) and her granddaughter, Rachel of Highland Park, IL; her brother, Robert (Betty) Hollister of Hastings, MI and Spring Hill, FL; her niece, Mary Hollister (Frank Pergolizzi); her nephew, David (Martha) Hollister; and two grandnephews. Following a private burial, a memorial service was Wednesday, August 8, 2012 in Montieth Hall at the First Presbyterian Church, 1432 Washtenaw Avenue, in Ann Arbor. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Arbor Hospice Foundation, 2366 Oak Valley Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48103. HASTINGS, MI- Kate Bennett, age 86, of Hastings ,passed away August 2, 2012 at MagnumCare of Hastings. She was born December 23, 1925 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, the daughter of Theodore and Eva (Luco) Kostyk. Kate attended school in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. She worked as a nurses aid at Winnipeg Children Hospital for several years in Canada. After coming to the United States, Kate worked as an in-home caregiver for the children of several different families. She also worked at the Tiki Restaurant and Bar and raised three boys. Kate enjoyed knitting and embroidering, it gave her great pleasure to create things for the home. The mittens that she made would weigh five pounds after a good snowball fight. She also enjoyed all the activities at the Commission on Aging, dancing, arts and crafts and listening to Russ Nash and Don Reid provide entertainment. Kate was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Hastings and she loved going to church there. She was a loving and caring person who always liked to help not only her family but others, and will be remembered for that. She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Andrew, Peter, Nick, Fred and Bill Kostyk and sisters, Pearl Crouch, Ann Kudrich and Nellie Toporoski. Kate is survived by three sons, Alex, Ben and Don Henry, all of Hastings; two sisters and a brother from Winnipeg, Alexandra Slovinsky, Doris Wachal and John Kostyk; stepsister, Ellejane Ressique of Charlotte; stepbrother, Russell Bennett of Vermontville; grandchildren, Kathy Jane, Nathan, Josh and Ken. The family wishes to send a special thank you to Sukki Boulter and Diane as well as MagnumCare of Hastings for the special care they gave their mother. Memorial contributions may be made to the First Presbyterian Church, 405 N. M-37 Hwy., Hastings, MI 49058. Visitation and funeral services were held, Saturday, August 4, 2012 at Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message to the family. Nelson Martin HASTINGS, MI - Nelson Martin, age 91, of Hastings, died Tuesday, August 7, 2012 at Magnum Care in Hastings. Nelson was born December 10, 1920 in Quincy, the son of Nelson and Pansy (Thatcher) Martin. He graduated fron Quincy High School in 1939. He farmed on the family farm until 1955 when he moved to Middleville. Nelson worked for Bradford White for six years. He was a self-employed truck driver until he retired in 1981. Nelson enjoyed golfing, fishing and traveling. Nelson was married to Mary J. Lockwood on April 28, 1940, she preceded him in death on February 27, 2007. Nelson is survived by a daughter, Gloria VanDyke; his grandchildren, Terry Tolan (Karen Hoogerland), Kendall (Donna) Tolan; great grandchildren, Erin, Matraca, Travis Tolan and Kyle Rothley; brother-in-law, Otis Lawrence; several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by brothers, Reo, Max and Ross; sisters, Mildred Kulow and Betty Lawrence. Visitation will be held Thursday, August 9 from 6-8 p.m. at the Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held Friday, August 10, 2012 at 11 a.m. at Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. Memorials can be made to Thornapple Township Emergency Services, 128 High St., Middleville, MI 49333 or to a charity of one's choice. Arrangements are by the Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. Please leave a message or memory to the family at http://www.girrbachfuneralhome.net/. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 9, 2012 — Page 7 Lake Odessa Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of Newborn Babies James Wesley Coenen, Hastings and Angela Louise Brown, Hastings. Matthew Jacob Malik, Hastings and Antoinette Nelson, Hastings. Jason Richard Gonzalez, Hastings and Dana Rae Krasutsky, Hastings. Nathaniel Andrew Runals, Middleville and Rosalie Faye Rincones, Grand Rapids. John Francis Machinchick, Hastings and Traci Michelle Newhouse, Hastings. Rory William Miller, Hastings and Tamara Lyn Thornton, Hastings. Nathan David Anda, Wayland and Jessica Charlene Sidebottom, Denver, CO. Joshua James Kendall, Hastings and Kourtney Jean Meredith, Hastings. Thomas Clark VanDyk, Delton and Danielle Marie Roberts, Hastings. Ray L. Girrbach Owner/Director help work toward your long-term goals. • Interest-rate risk — Bonds and other fixed-income investments are subject to interest-rate risk. If you own a bond that pays 4% interest, and newly issued bonds pay 5%, it would be difficult to sell your bond for full price. So if you wanted to sell it prior to maturity, you might have to offer it at a discount to the original price. However, if you hold your bonds to maturity, you can expect to receive return of your principal provided the bond does not default. • Default risk — Bonds, along with some more complex investments, such as options, are subject to default risk. If a company issues a bond that you’ve bought and that company runs into severe financial difficulties, or even goes bankrupt, it may default on its bonds, leaving you holding the bag. You can help protect against this risk by sticking with “investment-grade” bonds — those that receive high ratings from independent rating agencies such as Standard & Poor’s or Moody’s. • Liquidity risk — Some investments, like real estate, are harder to sell than others. Thus, real estate is considered more “illiquid” than many common investments. Make sure you understand what type of risk is associated with every investment you own. And try to avoid “overloading” your portfolio with too many investments with the same type of risks. Doing so will not result in a totally smooth journey through the investment world — but it may help eliminate some of the “bumps” along the way. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 34.95 -1.02 AT&T 37.44 -.48 BP PLC 42.50 +2.60 CMS Energy Corp 23.88 -.78 Coca-Cola Co 79.77 -1.03 Eaton 44.65 +.81 Family Dollar Stores 66.03 -.05 Fifth Third Bancorp 14.23 +.41 Flowserve CP 126.95 +6.97 Ford Motor Co. 9.31 +.07 General Mills 38.34 -.36 General Motors 20.42 +.71 Intel Corp. 26.50 +.80 Kellogg Co. 50.25 +2.55 McDonald’s Corp 89.01 -.35 Pfizer Inc. 23.74 -.30 Ralcorp 64.26 +4.59 Sears Holding 52.68 +3.19 Spartan Motors 5.26 +.16 Spartan Stores 15.26 -1.94 Stryker 53.00 +.97 TCF Financial 10.40 +.07 Walmart Stores 73.99 -.44 Gold $1,612.10 -1.55 Silver $28.12 +.16 Dow Jones Average 13,169 +160 Volume on NYSE 680M -155M 269-967-8241 In Loving Memory of Tad Davis 7/21/59 ~ 8/13/07 We do not lose the ones we love, they only go before. Where there is everlasting life, where sorrow is no more. And there the soul will always live, and peace is everywhere. We do not lose the ones we love, God takes them in His care. Our Love For You Lives On 77570081 Love, Your Family Licensed / Insured / Local Call Scott 517-290-5556 • 877-448-1548 FREE Consultation & Estimates! ALSO EGRESS WINDOWS / MOLD REMEDIATION 77569835 Marriage Licenses on July 21, 2012 at 1:37 p.m. to Tiffany Watson and Christopher Mix of Delton. Weighing 8 lbs. 1 1/2 ozs. and 19 inches long. ***** Derrin Matthew, born at Pennock Hospital on July 22, 2012 at 2:50 a.m. to Samantha Gonsalves of Hastings. Weighing 8 lbs. 4.5 ozs. and 21 inches long. ***** Olivia Autumn, born at Pennock Hospital on July 21, 2012 at 9:11 a.m. to Justin and Ashley Jorgensen of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 0 ozs. and 19 1/2 inches long. ***** Chloe Yvonne, born at Pennock Hospital on July 19, 2012 at 5:42 p.m. to Collette Clock and Daniel Horn of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 13 ozs. and 21 inches long. ***** Matthew Joseph, born at Pennock Hospital on July 20, 2012 at 9:14 a.m. to Joseph and Karen Martin of Battle Creek. Weighing 7 lbs. 11 ozs. and 18 inches long. ***** Kylee Jean, born at Pennock Hospital on July 23, 2012 at 8:06 a.m. to Keith and Jessica Troyer of Hastings. Weighing 8 lbs. 15 ozs. and 21.5 inches long. ***** Broc Cash, born at Pennock Hospital on July 24, 2012 at 12:30 a.m. to Kayla and Brandon Wilkins of Hastings. Weighing 5 lbs. 8 ozs. and 18 inches long. ***** Adam John, born at Pennock Hospital on July 12, 2012 at 2:02 p.m. to Jenna and Nathan VanEnk of Middleville. Weighing 7 lbs. 14 ozs. and 22 inches long. ***** Hunter Christopher, born at Pennock Hospital on July 23, 2012 at 1:23 p.m. to Kassandra Koedyker and Allen Thomas of Delton. Weighing 8 lbs. 10 ozs. and 21 inches long. All investments carry risk. But, as an investor, one of the biggest risks you face is that of not achieving your long-term goals, such as enjoying a comfortable retirement and remaining financially independent throughout your life. To help reach your objectives, you need to own a variety of investment vehicles — and each carries its own type of risk. If you spread your investment dollars among vehicles that carry different types of risk, you may increase your chances of owning some investments that do well, even if, at the same time, you own others that aren’t. As a result, you may be able to reduce the overall level of volatility in your portfolio. (Keep in mind, though, that diversification can’t guarantee a profit or protect against all losses.) To diversify your risk factors, you first need to recognize them. Here are some of the most common types of investment risk: • Market risk — This is the type of risk that everyone thinks about — the risk that you could lose principal if the value of your investment drops and does not recover before you sell it. All investments are subject to market risk. You can help lessen this risk by owning a wide variety of investments from different industries and even different countries. • Inflation (purchasing power) risk — If you own a fixed-rate investment, such as a Certificate of Deposit (CD), that pays an interest rate below the current rate of inflation, you are incurring purchasing power risk. Fixed-income investments can help provide reliable income streams, but you also need to consider investments with growth potential to 77568328 TWINS, Grace Anastasia Behrendt, born at 9:49 a.m. Weighing 6 lbs. 14 ozs., 20 inches long. Michael James Behrendt II, born at 9:50 a.m. Weighing 4 lbs. 15 ozs., 18 inches long. Parents are Michael and Angela Behrendt. Proud siblings are PJ and Abby Bower. Grandparents include Robert and Judy Garber of Nashville and Jeffery and Charlotte Behrendt of Ironwood. ***** Caleb Allen, born at Pennock Hospital on July 20, 2012 at 7:57 a.m. to Kendra and Chad Comps of Woodland. Weighing 8 lbs. 11 ozs. and 21 inches long. ***** Christian James, born at Pennock Hospital Diversify your investment risk 77569912 department. Maxine is retired from preschool teaching. They are active members of the Pennway Church of God. Noted while walking around the block, flowers now in bloom include hydrangea, hibiscus, gladiola, cone flowers and even some very early mums. The Blanchard House at Ionia is open for tours on Sundays in August. This architectural gem is worth the small fee for tours. The movie series continues at the Ionia Theater. Yet this month are Amazon to the Arctic today, Travel to Scandinavia next week Thursday, stories of the Oregon trail on Aug. 23, frolic with the animals on Aug. 30. Olympic fans who were watching on Tuesday forenoon may have seen the water polo competition in which Becky Armstrong’s team won in overtime. She is the daughter of Tom Armstrong of Sixth Avenue. As if there isn’t enough to be scared about, there is now dire warning of the dangers of encounters with poisonous weed wild parsnip. It has been found on D Avenue near Kalamazoo, along railroad tracks. Another name is giant hogweed which grows 2-5 feet tall. It causes terrible burns from its sap. Contact causes giant blisters which scar for years. Lakewood schools have been designated a Reward School by the Michigan Dept. of Education, the only such school in IOnia County. This is based on improvement on the ACt exam taken by high school juniors. Lakewood’s score had advanced from 18.2 in 2007 to 20.5 in 2011. Richard and Sue Mouser have recently observed their 40th wedding anniversary. The annual alumni football game comes on Saturday, this time at Ionia field. The charge is $5 for the 7 p.m. game being played for the first time at Ionia. Funds raised go to support the two teams sports programs. This is the third edition of the game. THE ORANGEVILLE TRANSFER STATION WILL BE CLOSED AUGUST 18, 2012 FOR ORANGEVILLE DAYS. TRANSFER STATION WILL BE OPEN ON AUGUST 25, 2012. 77569921 by Elaine Garlock The county genealogy society meets Saturday, Aug. 11, at 1 p.m. at the Freight House. The Curtis sisters will bring some oral history stories from the Curtis and Bretz families. Both families came from Ohio in the 1860s and 1870s with others who stem from the George family. They were among the early pioneers of Odessa Township. The society has a good supply of the Ionia County Korean veterans books for sale. The outdoor service at Central United Methodist Church was held inside due to the iffy weather conditions in the early morning hours. The service was about God’s creation and featured several Psalms and songs geared toward creation. A tasty brunch followed in the fellowship hall. On Thursday, the Berlin Center United Methodist Church is holding its annual ice cream social, complete with sloppy joe sandwiches and other good food along with choices of ice cream flavors and toppings. The soup suppers at Central United MethodiST Church continue on Thursdays from 4:30 to 6 p.m. following the afternoon of respite care and child care, open to the public. Most of those who attend the respite care are from the community, not the host church. The Tri-River Museum Group meets Aug. 21 at the Freeport Museum, which now has a furnace. The facility now can be open more months during the year. There is a date set for the next bloodmobile, Aug. 27. Recent blood donor awards have been made to one of the Bursleys,of Woodland, for a 4 gallon mark. A 65th wedding anniversary is being observed by Galen and Maxine (Bates) Wortley of East Lansing. Galen was from Lake Odessa, son of William Wortley and wife. Maxine “Mick” is from Woodland. They have five children and 17 grandchildren. Galen is retired from the MSU Forestry EDWARD JONES THE KIDZ CARE CENTER OF DELTON HAS CLOSED ITS DOORS AFTER 12 YEARS OF SERVICE. EVERYTHING MUST GO. THERE WILL BE A “GARAGE SALE” on Saturday, Aug. 11 from 10-4 ® The 77570090 in the Northtown Center Parking Lot Located at the north end of town. • Furniture • Clothes • Carpets • Mats • Stuffed Animals • Dolls • Toys-Toys-Toys • etc. TWO BROTHERS AND A TENT For All Your Tent Rental Needs 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 • Tables and chairs available. 269-945-3252 Serving Hastings, Barry County and Surrounding Communities for 45 years Call: Dan McKinney 269-838-7057 or Tom McKinney 269-838-3842 •Traditional and Cremation Services •Pre-Planning Services Large Parking Lot - Handicap Accessible • Serving All Faiths • •Pre-arrangement Transfers Accepted www.girrbachfuneralhome.net 77564841 Family Owned and Operated 77566915 �Page 8 — Thursday, August 9, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Rutland board discusses proposed agreements for water and sewer services by Fran Faverman Staff Writer The Rutland Charter Township Board of Trustees held a special meeting Thursday, Aug. 2 to discuss the agreements worked out by attorneys for the township and the City of Hastings to provide sewer and water utility services for a portion of the township abutting the city. The services are necessary to permit the development of economic opportunities, specifically a hotel property within the township. The agenda for the special meeting listed the presentation of the two agreements as being for discussion only, a point that Rutland Supervisor Jim Carr carefully reiterated, say- ing there would be no vote on the agreements that evening. Some form of agreement between Rutland and the City of Hastings became necessary when the city refused to consider Rutland's request to become a contract customer for water and sewer services. The city's position was to only provide such services if the property was annexed to the city. Rutland, which wants the revenues from economic development in the area, was opposed to annexation. The area is particularly desirable to the city because it abuts the Hastings boundary on the west. Michigan law provides some mechanisms of annexation. The first, which is a simple annexation, requires the support of the property owner in the area or a vote of the residents in the affected area and in the annexing community. Since the property at issue is owned by Rutland Township, support for annexation was not available. The second option is Public Act 425 of 1984. This act allows transfers of property from one jurisdiction to another provided certain conditions are met. Again the support of the property owner is required and residents within the area have an opportunity to vote. The carrot in a 425 agreement is a rebate of 1 mill in tax revenue from the annexed area for 10 years. The agreements that will be considered by County Community Breakfast focuses on local counseling resources A Community Breakfast is set for Tuesday, Aug. 14, with the topic “Counseling Resources in Barry County.” The free quarterly breakfast takes place from 8 to 9 a.m. at First United Methodist Church, 209 W. Green St. in Hastings. Four speakers will share information about their services and handouts from several other agencies will be available as well. Guest speakers will be Sue Eastman from Pine Rest Christian Mental Health, Vickie Shumaker from Meadow Run Holistic Counseling, Giovanni Leonar from Secure Counseling and Gale Kragt from Spiritual Care Consultants. Each speaker will share the types of services they offer for children, eligibility criteria, area of specialty or exclusion and referral process. Speakers will also explain their fees and what insurance will be accepted. Website and email information will be provided. Giovanni Leonor Sr. earned a bachelor of science degree in sociology at Andrews University in 1995. His graduate studies and master’s degree were completed at Indiana University in May 2000. In September of that year, he founded Strategies for Effective Cultural Understanding and Relationship Empowerment (SECURE) Counseling and Gale Kragt Giovanni Leonor Psychological Centers. SECURE provides both office-based and outreach services to the community, with offices in Berrien Springs, Paw Paw, Kalamazoo and Hastings. Chaplain Gale Kragt co-founded Spiritual Care Consultants of West Michigan in 2007 and currently serves as president of its board of directors. Kragt brings more than 20 years of experience as a chaplain delivering Christian maturity across all denominations. Those who plan to attend the breakfast are asked to call 269-945-5439. The Community Breakfast is sponsored by the Family Support Center, Foster Home Recruiter, Strong Families/Safe Children, CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate), Great Start Coalition, and Kinship Care. LEGAL NOTICES SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by JAY N. SCOTT, A MARRIED MAN and JEROME MEEHAN, A MARRIED MAN, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated December 2, 2005, and recorded on December 16, 2005, in Document No. 1157842, and re-recorded on June 21, 2011 in Document No./Liber 201106210006025, on Page 1, and modified, recorded December 29, 2010, in Document No. 201012290012081, and assigned by said mortgagee to Flagstar Bank, FSB, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Nineteen Thousand Eight Hundred Fifty-Five Dollars and Seventy Cents ($119,855.70), including interest at 4.250% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on September 6, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE SOUTH LINE OF SECTION 2, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 7 WEST, NORTH 89 DEGREES 16 MINUTES 39 SECONDS WEST 207.24 FEET FROM THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF SAID SECTION, THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES 16 MINUTES 39 SECONDS WEST 416.95 FEET, THENCE NORTH 01 DEGREES 15 MINUTES 21 SECONDS WEST 351.06 FEET, THENCE SOUTH 89 DEGREES 09 MINUTES 32 SECONDS EAST 629.73 FEET, THENCE SOUTH 00 DEGREES 21 MINUTES 23 SECONDS EAST 42.32 FEET, THENCE SOUTH 33 DEGREES 58 MINUTES 35 SECONDS WEST 367.39 FEET TO POINT OF BEGINNING. SUBJECT TO EASEMENTS FOR STATE HIGHWAY. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Flagstar Bank, FSB Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 FSB.004393 FHA (08-09)(08-30) 77570100 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Richard Marshall aka Richard A. Marshall and Kelly Marshall, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, Inc., Mortgagee, dated September 30, 2003, and recorded on October 3, 2003 in instrument 1114814, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Forty Thousand Six Hundred Seventy-Four and 80/100 Dollars ($140,674.80). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 16, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 79 of Boulder Creek Estates, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats on Page 23. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #251147F04 77569434 (07-19)(08-09) BARRY COUNTY LOST Area TEA PARTY MEETING 8 Month Old Male Pitbull Gray with white socks. Lost August 1 on Woodland Road, Nashville. 7:00 pm • Tuesday, August 14th REWARD IF RETURNED Town Hall Forum 517-213-9697 07605934 07606302 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Mark C. Penrod, a married man, original mortgagor(s), to Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Mortgagee, dated May 28, 2008, and recorded on May 30, 2008 in instrument 20080530-0005733, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Nineteen Thousand Four Hundred and 76/100 Dollars ($19,400.76). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on September 6, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 6, Block 11, H.J. Kentfield's Addition, according to the plat thereof recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 9 of Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #347961F02 77560047 (08-09)(08-30) Middle Villa Inn 4611 North M-37, Middleville Gary L. Munson • 269-623-8464 both the Rutland Charter Township Board of Trustees and the City of Hastings Council are a variant on Public Act 425. The agreements will come before the township board at its regularly scheduled meeting Wednesday, Aug. 8. It is expected that a formal vote will be taken at that meeting on the agreements. The most critical agreement is the intergovernmental agreement for sharing urban services. Without the approval of this agreement by both Rutland and Hastings, the project is dead. The agreement is expected to be on the agenda for the Hastings City Council at its Aug. 13 meeting. The first document is the intergovernmental agreement for sharing urban services between Hastings and Rutland. The effect of the agreement, which requires approval by the township board and the Hastings City Council, is to allow the construction of infrastructure within a specified area for the provision of water and sewer utility services and the conditional transfer of the property to the City of Hastings and a sharing of the tax revenues with the township for a period of 50 years. The area within the township that will be eligible for utility services is known as the urban services eligibility area; several parcels may be included in the area. The first parcel, in which infrastructure will be developed, is called the initial urban services district; the remaining parcels in the eligibility area are called future urban services districts. The agreement and the map are currently scheduled to be submitted to the Joint Planning Alliance (Barry County, Carlton Township, Hastings Charter Township, Rutland, and the city of Hastings), for their recommendation and the inclusion of the final map of the Urban Services Eligibility Area. Should all three bodies concur, the document will then be filed with the state as required by law. Several aspects of the intergovernmental agreement differ from those most commonly used. For example, the township keeps the right to decide whether or when to construct the infrastructure to extend the services to the project. The right to choose the financing mechanism to pay for infrastructure remains with Rutland as does the management of the construction project. The township also keeps complete municipal authority while it decides how it wants to do a project. In other words, the parcel constituting the initial urban services district does not get transferred to the city until the project is completed. The second agreement, the intergovernmental agreement for urban services and economic development, only becomes effective after the terms of the first agreement have been satisfied, namely after the first initial urban services district has been identified and the project completed. If the project required has not been identified, an initial urban services district created, and the infrastructure project completed within five years, the second agreement collapses unless both the township and the city agree to extend it. The second agreement has some features which set it apart from other types of agreements for sharing urban services. Among the distinguishing features are the extent to which the township and the city share control over transferred property. For example, the City of Hastings will have to change one of its zoning ordinances to allow some projects, while the second agreement also requires approval of both bodies, it does not become effective until the terms of the first agreement are met. Another feature is what happens to those residents of Rutland Township whose property is in the urban services district, but who currently are provided with sewer/water service by the city due to a 1992 agreement enforced by a 2000 court judgment. Such properties are not transferred to the city unless they make a new connection to the system until Dec. 31 of the year the connection is made. If no new connection is made, the properties will be transferred to the city on the third anniversary of the date when the agreement becomes effective. Property owners who wish to transfer voluntarily to the city may do so; the transfer becomes effective on Dec. 31 of the year the request is made and approved by the township and the city. Does this agreement apply to property in other parts of the township? According to the agreement, the answer is an unequivocal "no." If the property is not in the defined urban services eligibility district, it is outside the scope of the two agreements. Property that is within the defined urban services eligibility district, but is not part of the initial urban services district, is not subject to transfer unless a future urban services district is created by agreement between the township and the city. Neither governmental entity can create a future district without the consent of the other; in other words, it takes two to tango in any potential property dance. Two major questions the agreement deals with are municipal jurisdiction and tax revenues. While most of the jurisdictional elements such as police powers, fire protection, emergency services, and access to library services go to the city, the ability to enforce and collect all assessments established before the transfer remains with the township. The township also keeps jurisdiction over the enforcement of the state building and electrical codes; jurisdiction over planning is shared. While transferred properties become subject to the millage rates of the City of Hastings for the first 24 years of the agreement, the city will rebate 1 mill to the township; for the second 25 years of the agreement, the city will rebate .5 mill to the township. Other aspects are specified in considerable detail. Any attempts by the city to annex any property within the urban services district are specifically prohibited by the agreement. The last remaining major question is what happens if either the city or the township decides at the expiration of the agreements after 50 years that they do not wish to extend the agreements. Transferred property will remain in the city unless the township can establish satisfactorily that it can provide the urban services provided by the city. An extension of the agreement is by mutual consent. Craig Rolfe, attorney for the township, explained that he and Richard Butler, attorney for the City of Hastings, had worked on the material submitted to them following a long process overseen by Gerald Fisher, a municipal law attorney, who had acted as facilitator for the discussions between representatives of the township and the city. That process had established a framework for what was possible. The agreements being presented for discussion reflect that framework. It became apparent fairly quickly that there is some disagreement over the proposed agreements. Trustee Rob Lee wanted to know why residents weren't being given more of a role in the process. It was explained that the property being sought by the hotel developer is owned by the township. Lee added that he had been told by the developer that some of the investors had backed out. Carr riposted that Lee made it sound as though the township was holding things up. Joe Lyons, who unsuccessfully challenged incumbent Supervisor Jim Carr in last Tuesday’s Republican primary for the post of supervisor, said he thinks the township is getting a raw deal. He foresaw the township being charged a special assessment for the infrastructure. Rolfe said the developer pays for the infrastructure, not the township. Township clerk Robin Hawthorne asked about tax bills, questioning whether residents would be getting two tax bills. Rolfe explained that the city has no jurisdiction until the required project was completed. He added that the second agreement comes into effect and while Hastings does the billing, Rutland gets the special assessment dollars. Hawthorne again, commented: "We have to think about the entire area, not just the property. Why does the city get the property?" Rolfe explained that the city is unwilling to extend services without the property in a retail contract. He said, "It has never been on the table." Lee, responding to Rolfe, said, "I have never seen any documentation of that." Carr entered the discussion, saying that it was unwritten, but had come up in the discussion. He added that at that point he had changed direction to get an agreement and had gone to the city council. Trustee Dorothy Flint pointed out that if people wanted services, they had to do it themselves. Rolfe reiterated that a retail services contract had not been an option for at least five years. Treasurer Sandy Greenfield said, "eight years ago there was a P.A. 425." Rolfe said the agreement was never executed. The discussion continued with questions being raised about zoning, maintenance of infrastructure, and ultimate responsibility for some decisions on the transferred property. Flint especially felt zoning disagreements should be resolved in favor of the township. Lyons expressed concern, saying, "The City of Hastings doesn't like Rutland. They extended service to others – Thornapple Manor and Leach Lake but not to us." Carr responded to him saying, "According to the state, the rules are different for commercial [development]." Rolfe added that the township did not represent a public health issue with a lake, but that Rutland is a private, future economic development. Flint reentered the discussion, asking Rolfe: "Do you believe this is a good thing for the township?" Rolfe refused to be drawn, observing that it was a policy decision; policy decisions were the province of the board. Lee returned for a final question, asking Rolfe, "Do you know of any agreement like this in another community?" Rolfe answered, "No. It is a lawful agreement. My opinion should be irrelevant because this is a policy decision." Trustees Brenda Bellmore and Bill Hanshaw felt they were making history and should at least take a look at the agreements. Board members did not indicate in any fashion how they might be expected to vote on the agreements at their Aug. 8 meeting. See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 9, 2012 — Page 9 states to again become whole-hearted members of the Union. Instead, they seemed designed to repel instead of attract. Democrats were naturally pleased to have Horace Greeley, the man whom they considered most responsible for the formation of the Republican Party, become a severe critic of that party’s course in Congress. They praised him highly and encouraged his attacks on the party he had helped to create. It appeared as if this praise had turned Greeley’s head. Instead of constructive criticism, his strictures became bitter and intemperate, destroying all hope that he might influence his own party to take reasonable action. Had he made his criticism constructive with the one aim of helping his party, he could have been a help to his party and his country. He might have saved our nation from that sectional feeling, which has been very harmful. Mr. Greeley seemed unable to make himself helpful to his party. Instead, his criticisms became more and more bitter, which didn’t mend the conditions which he so violently denounced. But his course pleased the Democrats, who encouraged him with praise and flattery. How Democratic leaders ever persuaded themselves that it would be wise for their party to nominate Horace Greeley for President in 1872 is difficult to understand. How Mr. Greeley could have made himself believe that he had the remotest chance to succeed when pitted against General Grant seems impossible to fathom. It was a foolish procedure for the Democratic Party. It was stupid for Mr. Greeley. It was harmful to this country, because it ended all chance for Mr. Greeley to have any influence whatever on the Republican Congress and President. As an anti-slavery man, also as a Republican when and after the party was organized, Greeley had unsparingly denounced the Democratic Party. His choice by that party for President in 1872 was certain to prove a political blunder. Every Democrat who attempted to urge Greeley’s election would invite Republican quotations from the files of the New York Tribune, in which their candidate for president had derided and unmercifully denounced the Democratic Party. Many times in that campaign I heard Republicans quote the following as showing what Greeley really thought when he said, as he did, “All the Democrats are not horse thieves, but every horse thief is a Democrat.” No man could excel Zack Chandler in pointing out the absurd action of the Democratic Party in naming Horace Greeley as its candidate for President in 1872. Union Hall was packed when he spoke here late in the campaign. He kept his big audience in a roar by his quotations from the New York Tribune, showing what their candidate for President had thought of the party that had named him for the nation’s executive. General Grant was overwhelmingly elected and Horace Greeley ignominiously defeated at the November election that year, largely because so many Democrats could not stand for a candidate who had denounced their party for years, as being unworthy of support. Greeley’s acceptance of the nomination by that party seemed to prove that he was a victim of the weakness of old age or that his recent criticism of the Republican Party was made for the purpose of getting the Democratic nomination for President. It did not look right from any angle. What Mr. Greeley should have done was to decline the nomination and to make himself a constructive critic of the Republican Party for the sake of the country and his party, as well as his own good. As I remember, Senator Chandler was the chairman of the Republican State Committee in the state election of 1878, when he again addressed a Barry County audience here. Union Hall was packed. Barry County had since 1856 been reliably Republican. However, in the spring of 1878, the new Greenback Party had won 14 of his county’s 18 supervisors. The new party had a strong state ticket and its candidates for county offices were vote getters. They expected to sweep this county by big majorities. As the closing feature of their intense 1878 campaign, the Republican County Committee that year arranged for Senator Chandler to speak here. I think it was the night before election. He The Michigan Longbow Association will be holding its 28th Annual Great Lakes Longbow Invitational at Historic Charlton Park Friday through Sunday, August 10 to 12. The Great Lakes Longbow Invitational, the world’s largest longbow event, is in its 28th year, while the MLA is celebrating its 29th anniversary. The invitational is a weekend full of longbow shooting, browsing traditional archery vendor displays and eating and carousing with other longbow enthusiasts. Shooting events will be offered for all ages and skill levels. Attendees can participate in the silver arrow shoot — based on the old Robin Hood-style tournament; the clout shoot — a distance and accuracy event; threedimensional courses for fun or try their luck at the turkey novelty shoots. A range will beset up just for young longbow shooters. Food vendors and archery vendors will be available all three days. The invitational is a longbow and wooden arrow event, so guests should leave their other bows at home. The MLA believes in passing on the tradition of archery and has loaner equipment for kids and also allows children to shoot recurve bows. Plus, children 16 and under enter the event and participate for free. Admission for adults is $5. For more information, visit the MLA website, www.michiganlongbow.org, or www.charltonpark.org; or call 269-945-3775. Historic Charlton Park is located at 2545 S. Charlton Park Road, just north of M-79 between Hastings and Nashville. Reporting History for the Future in 6 Barry County Area Newspapers • Lakewood News • Maple Valley News • Middleville-Caledonia Sun & News • Reminder • Hastings Banner Over 64,000 Papers Distributed Every Week! 1351 N. M-43 Highway • P.O. Box 188 Hastings, MI 49058 Phone (269) 945-9554 • Fax (269) 945-5192 77570005 M.L. Cook recalls when Senator Zack Chandler made two speeches in Hastings. (Reprint from the May 22, 1941, Banner). Zachariah, usually called “Zack” Chandler, was Michigan’s most noted member of the U.S. Senate. He was a successful businessman in Detroit before he was elected to that body. He served through, and for several years, after the Civil War. He was a born leader, a man of intense convictions. He had the ability to state his views in clear and forceful words. One did not have to guess at his meaning, that was very evident. He had the courage as well as the language to express his opinions. He was sincere and honest and scorned side stepping or pussy-footing. He met every issue squarely, had a logical mind, abominated shams and smashed them with sledge-hammer blows. It would be fortunate indeed for this country if we had a score of that type of men in every Congress. Senator Chandler’s advice was sought by presidents and cabinet members because of the soundness of his views and his great influence in the Senate. They knew he would tell them exactly what he believed on any subject discussed with him. They valued his logical reasoning, his straightforewardness, as well as his commanding influence. There were many times during our Civil War when the English government showed an unfriendly attitude toward our country and sought to make it difficult to carry on our war to preserve the Union. One day, Secretary of State Seward received a violent British protest against some action of the American Navy, insisting that we had violated English rights on the big seas. Secretary Seward asked Senator Chandler how he would answer this protest from Queen Victoria’s government. Promptly came this characteristic reply from Senator Chandler: “I would translate it into diplomatic language, but I would tell the old to go to H--l.” That advice was followed and Her Majesty’s government did not press the subject further. Senator Chandler was a man of striking appearance as well as of outstanding ability. He was over six feet tall, broad shouldered erect and fine looking. He could have qualified as an athlete in his younger days, quick in action and very strong. His opponent would have known he was up against the real thing in a fight or a foot race. It was said of him that “he could whip his weight in wildcats.” As a public speaker, Mr. Chandler was clear and forceful, but not eloquent. He used plain words that accurately expressed his views on public questions. His gestures were few, but forceful. I shall always remember his large expressive eyes, which seem to be speaking as well as his lips. I heard Senator Chandler make two political addresses in Hastings in the campaign of 1872 and 1878. On both occasions, he was a guest in our home. I remember he was not too big in 1872 to speak kindly to a 14-year-old boy who admired him very much and was pleased with that little attention. I was happy when listening to the conversation of my father (David Cook) and Michigan’s greatest U.S. Senator. Both of his speeches were delivered in the old Union Hall in the third story above the A&P Store (102-110 W. State St.) The campaign of 1872 was a peculiar contest. Horace Greeley was then, and for many years prior to the Civil War, the editor and publisher of the New York Tribune. His outspoken hatred of human slavery and his intense abolition views were a large factor in the birth and growth of the Republican Party. For many years and from coast to coast, the New York Weekly Tribune was the Republican Bible. While Greeley was erratic at time, often intolerant of opposition to his views, he was sincere. Through the Tribune, Mr. Greeley was very influential to shaping the policies of the Republican Party in its earliest years. There was a decided Republican reaction against the temperate views of Vice President Andrew Jackson, who succeeded Lincoln, as to the treatment that should be accorded to the states that had rebelled. After General Grant was chosen President in 1868, that reaction became more pronounced. Horace Greeley was justified in his criticism of certain reconstruction measures enacted by the Republicans in Congress, for they were not calculated to help the seceding Charlton Park to host Great Lakes Longbow Invitational 77569998 Senator Chandler visits Hastings was glad to come, for he was strongly opposed to the Greenback theories and he knew that Barry County was one of the few hotbeds of Greenbackism in the state. His successful business experience, as well as his long service at Washington, qualified him to speak on the currency issue and enabled him to point out the dangers to this country and the harm to its people that would result from inflation. This he did with clearness and emphasis. Local Republicans and Greenbackers who realized the strength of the Greenback movement in this county had come to believe that the election might give a Greenback majority in Michigan. Senator Chandler brought much encouragement to Barry County Republicans that night and corresponding gloom in Greenbackers, by his predictions of results on the following day. They all knew that the Senator was as keen a politician as this country possessed. They also knew that his many campaigns, his wide acquaintances in this state and his close touch with every part of Michigan gave him exceptional opportunities to know the sentiments of the voters of the state. They also knew that he was never given to boasting and was always conservative in his statements. I can recall just how Senator Chandler looked that night, as he, in very positive language, predicted the rout of the Greenbacks of Michigan and a decisive victory for the Republicans. He stood at full height, his large eyes emphasizing what he said verbally. His words were clear and strong. As near as I can recall this is what he predicted that night: “I have visited very part of Michigan and studied political conditions in every county. I think I am qualified to judge the political situation, and I make these predictions. The Republicans will elect every candidate on their state ticket by more than 50,000 plurality. The Republicans will elect fully twothirds of the members of the State Legislature, the Greenbacks can have the rest. Of the nine Congressmen to be elected in this state tomorrow, the Republicans will elect nine and the Greenbacks can have the rest.” The returns on election night in 1878 fulfilled the predictions Senator Chandler had made in this Hastings address. In this county instead of a big plurality for the Greenback state ticket, it was less than 200, and the Republicans elected sheriff, county clerk, register of deeds and prosecuting attorney. 77570008 77570001 77569992 77569995 PUBLIC NOTICE OF STATE-OWNED OIL AND GAS RIGHTS TO BE OFFERED FOR LEASE AUCTION Lands under consideration for oil and gas leasing include acreage in the following counties: ALLEGAN, ARENAC, BARRY, BAY, EMMET, GRAND TRAVERSE, IONIA, IOSCO, KALKASKA, KENT, LAKE, MANISTEE, MIDLAND, MONTMORENCY, OAKLAND, OGEMAW, OSCODA, OTTAWA, PRESQUE ISLE, SAGINAW, TUSCOLA, AND WEXFORD. On October 24, 2012, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will offer, at an oral-bid public auction, approximately 196,000 acres of state-owned oil and gas lease rights in those Michigan counties indicated herein. More detailed information regarding location of the nominated parcels can be found at http:// www.michigan.gov/dnr/1,1607,7-153-10371_14793-30912--,00. html or by calling 517 373 7663. Written comments by interested parties relative to the classification of any description must be received by Minerals Management Section at the address specified herein NO LATER THAN September 11, 2012. Any request for change in classification will be considered by the DNR prior to offering the lease rights at public auction, with final classification to be set at the sole discretion of the Director of the DNR. Registration of bidders will begin at 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 24, 2012, and continue throughout the auction. Registration will be at the Michigan Constitution Hall, 525 West Allegan Street, Lansing, Michigan. Bids may be submitted by individuals of legal age, a partnership, corporation, or other legal entity qualified to do business in Michigan. Prospective bidders will be required to submit a valid government-issued photo identification (ID) which will be retained until the time of check out. It can be in the form of a driver’s license or identification card. Offering of lease rights will begin at 9:00 a.m. at an expected minimum bid of $10.00 per acre and will continue until all descriptions have been offered. Additionally, at the auction’s end and at the option of the DNR, parcels for which no bids are received may be re-offered at an expected minimum bid of $2.00 per acre. The total bonus must be paid at the time of check out for all lease rights which receive successful bids. Prospective bidders who do not have an established credit rating with the DNR through prior leasing of state-owned minerals, must pay at least onehalf of the TOTAL bonus bid by cash, certified check, cashier’s check, or money order. A credit rating may be established by filing with the Minerals Management Section (MMS), three letters of references acceptable to the DNR, one of which must be a bank. In no instance will the DNR accept “site drafts” even if noted as a “zeroday site draft.” Bidders are legally and financially responsible for any successful bids. Failure to pay for a successful bid is considered intent to defraud and the bidder may be subject to prosecution. An auction catalog showing the legal description of the lands proposed to be offered and parcel classifications will be available after September 13, 2012, at http://www.michigan. gov/dnr/0,1607,7153-10368_11800-169044--,00.html or by contacting DNR-MMS, P.O. Box 30452, Lansing, Michigan 48909- 7952, telephone 517373-7663. 77569918 �Page 10 — Thursday, August 9, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-26116DE Estate of Ronald James Nottingham. Date of birth: 06/12/1945. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Ronald James Nottingham, died 05/18/2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Kerri L. Selleck, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court Street, Ste. 302, Hastings, MI 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 8/1/12. Kerri L. Selleck P.O. Box 233 Hastings, MI 49058 77570052 (269) 945-9117 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Paul B. Fifelski and Karen Fifelski, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated November 20, 2009, and recorded on December 1, 2009 in instrument 200912010011617, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Three Thousand Four Hundred Fifty-Two and 92/100 Dollars ($83,452.92). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 16, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 38 of Middleville Down No. 2 to the Village of Middleville, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats on page 13, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #403961F01 77569429 (07-19)(08-09) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Matthew J. Thompson, a marred man Leah M. Thompson, spouse, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated May 24, 2006, and recorded on June 6, 2006 in instrument 1165663, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eighty-Two Thousand One Hundred Seventy-Four and 24/100 Dollars ($182,174.24). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 16, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 19 of Brookfield Acres, according to the recorded Plat thereof, being part of the North 1/2 Section 29, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, Hastings Township, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 19, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #405661F01 (07-19)(08-09) 77569374 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Charles N. Teunessen and Shannon L. Teunessen, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Wells Fargo Bank, NA, Mortgagee, dated March 26, 2007, and recorded on April 2, 2007 in instrument 1178197, in Barry county records, Michigan, and assigned by said Mortgagee to HSBC Bank USA, National Association as Trustee for Wells Fargo Asset Securities Corporation, Mortgage Asset-BackedPass-Through Certificates Series 2007-PA2 as assignee, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ninety Thousand Four Hundred Sixty-Six and 66/100 Dollars ($190,466.66). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 23, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel 3: Commencing at the West 1/4 Post of Section 3, Town 2 North, Range 9 West; thence South 00 degrees 00 minutes 02 seconds West 995.29 feet along the West line of Section 3; thence South 87 degrees 28 minutes 31 seconds East 1924.87 feet along the North line of the South 100 Acres of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 3 for the true Place of Beginning; thence North 00 degrees 00 minutes 02 seconds East 340.00 feet; thence South 87 degrees 28 minutes 31 seconds East 206.00 feet; thence South 00 degrees 00 degrees 00 seconds 02 minutes West 340.00 feet to said North line of 100 Acres; thence North 87 degrees 28 minutes 31 seconds West 206.00 feet along the centerline of Anders Road to the Place of Beginning. Subject to highway right of way over the Southerly 33 feet thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #407014F01 77569536 (07-26)(08-16) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Lisa Cahill, an unmarried person, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated December 5, 2001, and recorded on December 13, 2001 in instrument 1071314, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Thirty-Five Thousand Seven Hundred Eighty-Four and 64/100 Dollars ($35,784.64). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on September 6, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 22 of Country Acres as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 64, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #410246F01 77570059 (08-09)(08-30) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Carol A. Crews and William D Crews Sr. aka William Delbert Crews, aka William D. Crews, wife and husband, original mortgagor(s), to American Express Bank, FSB, Mortgagee, dated November 19, 2004, and recorded on December 10, 2004 in instrument 1138504, and modified by Affidavit or Order recorded on May 17, 2012 in instrument 2012-00236, and assigned by said Mortgagee to PHH Mortgage Corporation as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Two Thousand Five Hundred One and 03/100 Dollars ($92,501.03). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on September 6, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Southeast corner of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 17, Town 2 North, Range 10 West, thence North 02 degrees 16 minutes 46 seconds West 200 feet, thence North 90 degrees West 104.3 feet, thence South 03 degrees 06 minutes 31 seconds West 200.14 feet, thence North 90 degrees East along Saddler Road 123.11 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #354808F04 77569945 (08-09)(08-30) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Barry Wilson and Albrey Wilson, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 25, 2008, and recorded on February 22, 2008 in instrument 20080222-0001662, and modified by agreement dated November 9, 2010, and recorded on December 9, 2010 in instrument 201012090011514, and assigned by said Mortgagee to EverBank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Six Thousand One Hundred Seven and 61/100 Dollars ($76,107.61). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 30, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 229, City of Hastings Barry County, Michigan as recorded in Liber A Page 1, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 2, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #406482F01 77569722 (08-02)(08-23) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Steven F Meyers, a married man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated December 6, 2007, and recorded on December 10, 2007 in instrument 200712100005034, and modified by agreement dated May 4, 2010, and recorded on June 25, 2010 in instrument 201006250006087, and assigned by said Mortgagee to MidFirst Bank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Five Thousand Three Hundred Twenty-Eight and 14/100 Dollars ($75,328.14). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 30, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North 1/2 of Lot 1099 of the City, formerly Village of Hastings according to the recorded Plat thereof recorded in Liber A, Page 1 of Barry County Records and the West 4 rods to Lot 3, Block 20 Eastern Addition according to the Plat thereof recorded in Liber A of Plats, Page 2 of Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 2, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #402824F01 77569801 (08-02)(08-23) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Nicholas S. Pifer and Tina M. Pifer, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 21, 2004, and recorded on June 21, 2004 in instrument 1129582, and modified by Affidavit or Order received by and recorded, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Six Thousand Two Hundred Twenty-Seven and 06/100 Dollars ($66,227.06). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on September 6, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Section 13, Town 1 North, Range 8 West, part of the Southwest 1/4, Commencing at the Northeast corner of the Southwest 1/4; thence West 793 feet to the point of beginning; thence South 200 feet; thence West 207 feet; thence North 200 feet; thence East 207 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #105480F02 77570076 (08-09)(08-30) FORECLOSURE NOTICE THIS IS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE Default has occurred in a Mortgage made on November 29, 2010 by Jerry D. Ray and Josie P. Ray, Mortgagor, to Hastings City Bank, a Michigan corporation, as Mortgagee. The Mortgage was recorded on December 6, 2010 in the Office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan in Instrument No. 201012060011368. At the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due and unpaid on the Mortgage the sum of NinetyTwo Thousand Six Hundred Seventeen and 26/100 Dollars ($92,617.26), including interest at 3.875% per annum. No suit or proceedings have been instituted to recover any part of the debt secured by the Mortgage, and the power of sale contained in the Mortgage has become operative by reason of such default. On Thursday, August 30, 2012, at one o'clock in the afternoon at the east steps of the Barry County Courthouse, 220 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan, which is the place for holding mortgage sales for Barry County, Michigan, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder, at public sale, for the purpose of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid upon the Mortgage, together with the legal costs and charges of sale, including attorneys' fees allowed by law, the property located in the Township of Rutland, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and described in the Mortgage as follows: A parcel of land in the Southeast 1/4 of Section 13, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, Rutland Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as beginning at a point on the south line of said Section 13 which lies South 89 degrees 13’ 30” West 395.70 feet from the Southeast corner of said Section 13; thence South 89 degrees 13’ 30” West 239.30 feet; thence due North 256.18 feet; thence South 89 degrees 56’ East 223.83 feet; thence South 13 degrees 02’ 40” East 67.77 feet; thence due South 186.57 feet to the point of beginning. Including rights of ingress and egress to said premises from Cook Road. More commonly known as 985 Arthur Court, Hastings, Michigan 49058 The redemption period shall be six months from the date of the sale unless the property is deemed abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a in which case the redemption period shall be thirty days after the foreclosure sale or when the time to provide the notice required by subdivision MCL 600.3241a(c) expires, whichever is later. MILLER JOHNSON Attorneys for Hastings City Bank /s/ Rachel J. Foster Dated: July 24, 2012 By: Rachel J. Foster 303 North Rose Street, Suite 600 Kalamazoo, Michigan 49007 77569677 269-226-2982 AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTIFY US AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by Glen Tonnemacher and Nicole Marie Tonnmacher, husband and wife, Mortgagors, to BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., Mortgagee, dated the 24th day of May, 2010 and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, for The County of Barry and State of Michigan, on the 9th day of June, 2010 in Instrument #201006090005548 of Barry County Records, said Mortgage on which mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, the sum of Two Hundred Thirteen Thousand Eight Hundred Eighty & 98/100 ($213880.98), and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on the 6th day of September, 2012 at 1:00 PM o’clock Local Time, said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI (that being the building where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held), of the premises described in said mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due, as aforesaid on said mortgage, with interest thereon at 4.75% per annum and all legal costs, charges, and expenses, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sum or sums which may be paid by the undersigned, necessary to protect its interest in the premises. Which said premises are described as follows: All that certain piece or parcel of land, including any and all structures, and homes, manufactured or otherwise, located thereon, situated in the Township of Irving, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and described as follows, to wit: Lot 10, Prairie Acres, according to the plat thereof in Liber 6 of Plats, Page 39. During the six (6) months immediately following the sale, the property may be redeemed, except that in the event that the property is determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241a, the property may be redeemed during 30 days immediately following the sale. Pursuant to MCLA 600.3278, the mortgagor(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 8/9/2012 BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO BAC HOME LOANS SERVICING, LP FKA COUNTRYWIDE HOME LOANS SERVICING, LP Mortgagee FABRIZIO & BROOK, P.C. Attorney for BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO BAC HOME LOANS SERVICING, LP FKA COUNTRYWIDE HOME LOANS SERVICING, LP 888 W. Big Beaver, Suite 800 Troy, Ml 48084 248-362-2600 77570071 BOA FNMA Tonnemacher (08-09)(08-30) GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 269-945-9554 for more information. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 9, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS In the matter of Harm Veld Trust. Date of birth: October 13, 1915. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Harm Veld, died June 14, 2012. There is no personal representative of the decedent’s estate to whom Letters of Authority have been issued. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the Trust will be forever barred unless presented to Herman Veld, Trustee(s) of the Harm Veld Trust, u.a dtd May 23, 2006, as amended within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: August 2, 2012 Miller Johnson Catherine C. Metzler P38690 100 West Michigan Avenue, Suite 200 Kalamazoo, MI 49007-3960 (269) 226-2954 Herman Veld 44 Santalina Trail Battle Creek, MI 49014 (269) 963-3042 77569983 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Matthew Schultz and Nicole Schultz, husband and wife as joint tenants, original mortgagor(s), to Arbor Mortgage, Mortgagee, dated December 16, 2005, and recorded on January 3, 2006 in instrument 1158410, and assigned by mesne assignments to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Seventy-Eight Thousand Eight Hundred Seventy-Seven and 87/100 Dollars ($178,877.87). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 23, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North 375 feet of the East 850 feet of the South 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 23, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, Irving Township, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #281531F03 77569542 (07-26)(08-16) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF A MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on April 11, 2006, by Ronald A. Jones and Sally J. Jones, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, given by them to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on April 24, 2006, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 1163538, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank by an Assignment of Mortgage, recorded on October 12, 2010, in Instrument Number 201010120009483, which mortgage was modified by a Loan Modification Agreement recorded October 12, 2010, in Instrument Number 201010120009482, Barry County Records, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Six Thousand Eight and 80/100 Dollars ($126,008.80); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, September 13, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE CITY OF HASTINGS, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: The North half of Lots 2 and 3, Block 8, Daniel Strikers Addition to the City (formerly Village) of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof. Commonly known as: 825 N. East Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 Parcel Number: 08-55-095-053-00 The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: August 2, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933 (517) 37177570064 8253 (08-09)(08-30) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Allan Snyder and Kathleen Snyder husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, Mortgagee, dated June 30, 2008, and recorded on July 10, 2008 in instrument 200807100007074, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Four Thousand Four Hundred Twenty-Seven and 27/100 Dollars ($64,427.27). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 23, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North one-half of Lots 607 and 608 of the City of Hastings, according to the plat thereof The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #407031F01 77569518 (07-26)(08-16) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Gregory R. Price and Tricia Price, husband and wife, as joint tenants with full rights of survivorship, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lenders successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated December 23, 2005 and recorded February 24, 2006 in Instrument Number 1160524, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Citibank, N.A., as Trustee for Bear Stearns Asset Backed Securities I Trust 2006-HE3, Asset Backed-Certificates, Series 2006HE3 by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred ThirtyThree Thousand Nine Hundred Forty-One and 35/100 Dollars ($133,941.35) including interest at 5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 08/23/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Woodland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Township of Woodland, County of Barry, Michigan: Lot 37 of McLenithan Subdivision, according to the recorded Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 44, also, commencing at the Southeast corner of Lot 37 of McLenithan's Subdivision, according to the recorded Plat thereof; thence Southwesterly 17 feet; thence Northwesterly 50 feet parallel to the Southwest of said Lot 37; thence Northeasterly 17 feet to the Southwest corner of Lot 37; thence Southeasterly along the Southwest side of said Lot 37 to the place of beginning, being in the Southwest 1/4 of Section 4, Town 4 North, Range 7 West. Also, Lot 38 of McLenithan's Subdivision, Jordan Lake, according to the recorded plat thereof. Also, commencing at the Southeast corner of Lot 38 McLenithan's Subdivision, according to the recorded Plat thereof; thence Southwesterly 17 feet; thence Northwesterly 45 feet parallel to the Southwest side of said Lot 38; thence Northeasterly 17 feet to the Southwest corner of Lot 38; thence Southeasterly along the Southwest side of said Lot 38 to the place of beginning, All being in the Southwest 1/4 of Section 4, Town 4 North, Range 7 West. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: July 26, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 199.5052 77569706 (07-26)(08-16) STATE OF MICHIGAN 56B JUDICIAL DISTRICT JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY PROBATE ORDER FOR SERVICE BY PUBLICATION/POSTING AND NOTICE OF ACTION CASE NO. 12-0899-SP Court Address: 206 W. Court St., Hastings, MI 49058 Court Telephone No. (269) 945-1404 Plaintiff GRAND BANK FOR SAVINGS, FSB Stephanie C. Kamykowski, (P74223) Trott & Trott P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy., #200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 (248) 341-4772 v ROBIN L. ALLEN a/k/a ROBIN PETERS All Occupants 10660 Maple Grove Rd. Nashville, MI 49073 TO: ROBIN L. ALLEN a/k/a ROBIN PETERS IT IS ORDERED: You are being sued in this county by the plaintiff to Recover possession of property after Land Contract Forfeiture. You must file you answer or take other action permitted by law in this court. If you fail to do so, a default judgment may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint filed in this case. A copy of this order shall be published once each week in Hastings Banner for three consecutive weeks, and proof of publication shall be filed in this court. Rick E. Risk shall post a copy of this order in the courthouse, and at 10660 Maple Grove Rd., Nashville, MI 49073 and at The Dayton Tennessee City Court - 399 1st Avenue, Dayton, TN 37321 for once a week for 3 weeks, and shall file proof of posting in this court. A copy of this order shall be sent to Robin L. Allen, a/k/a Robin Peters, at the last-known address by registered mail, return receipt requested, before the date of the last publication, and the affidavit of mailing shall be filed with this court. Date: July 9, 2012 77569811 Judge Michael L. Schipper P42154 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT; ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY SERVICE PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW. Notice under MCL 600.3278: Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale under MCL 600.3201 et. seq., the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. ATTENTION POTENTIAL PURCHASERS AT FORECLOSURE SALE: In the case of resolution prior to or simultaneously with the aforementioned foreclosure sale, U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate Trust 1998-7, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents may rescind this sale at any time prior to the end of the redemption period. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited to the return of your bid amount tendered at the sale, plus interest. Default having occurred in the conditions of a Mortgage made by Boyd J. Tobias, unmarried ("Mortgagor") to Green Tree Servicing LLC (f/k/a Green Tree Financial Servicing Corporation), dated June 11, 1998, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry in the State of Michigan on June 16, 1998, in Document Number 1013602, et. seq., said Mortgage being last assigned to U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate Trust 1998-7 ("Green Tree"), by Mortgage Assignment dated July 3, 2012, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry in the State of Michigan on July 11, 2012, in Document Number 2012-002080, et. seq., on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due as of the date of this Notice the sum of $84,112.67, which amount may or may not be the entire indebtedness owed by Debtors to Green Tree together with interest at 8.75 percent per annum. NOW THEREFORE, Notice is hereby given that the power of sale contained in said Mortgage has become operative and that pursuant to that power of sale and MCL 600.3201 et. seq., on September 6, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., on the East steps of the Circuit Court Building in Hastings, Michigan, that being the place for holding the Circuit Court and/or for conducting such foreclosure sales for the County of Barry, there will be offered at public sale, the premises, or some part thereof, described in said Mortgage as follows, to-wit: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF CARLTON, COUNTY OF BARRY, STATE OF MICHIGAN, IS DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: PARCEL 2: BEGINNING AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF THE SOUTHEAST 1/4 OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 32, TOWN 4 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST; THENCE NORTH, 17 FEET ALONG THE EAST 1/8 LINE; THENCE EAST 318 FEET PARALLEL WITH THE EAST AND WEST 1/4 LINE OF SECTION 32; THENCE SOUTH 137 FEET; THENCE WEST 318 FEET TO THE EAST 1/8 LINE; THENCE NORTH 120 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. SUBJECT TO AND TOGETHER WITH RIGHTS OF INGRESS AND EGRESS IN A PRIVATE EASEMENT 66 FEET IN WIDTH ACROSS THE NORTH SIDE OF ABOVE DESCRIBED PARCEL, THE SOUTH LINE OF WHICH IS COINCIDENT WITH THE NORTH LINE OF SAID PARCEL. which also includes any interest Green Tree may have in the 1997 Redman Mobile Home, Serial Number 143T0381. The redemption period shall be six (6) months unless the property is established to be abandoned pursuant to MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of sale or fifteen (15) days from the date the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(b) was posted and mailed, or unless under MCL 600.3240(17), prior to the foreclosure sale the borrower follows the procedure set forth in that section to establish the presumption that the property is used for Agricultural purposes, in which case the redemption period shall be one (1) year from the date of the sale. Dated: July 27, 2012 U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate Trust 19987, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents By: DONALD A. BRANDT (P30183) BRANDT, FISHER, ALWARD & PEZZETTI, P.C. Attorneys for Green Tree 1241 E. Eighth Street, P.O. Box 5817 Traverse City, Michigan 49696-5817 (231) 941-9660 File No.: 6140.1134 Ad #34618 77569806 08/02, 08/09, 08/16, 08/23/2012 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-26117-DE Estate of IMOGENE M. ROOT. Date of birth: February 17, 1937. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, IMOGENE M. ROOT, died April 17, 2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to JOAN TAGGART, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 WEST COURT, SUITE 302, HASTINGS, MI 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: August 6, 2012 DAVID H. TRIPP P29290 206 SOUTH BROADWAY HASTINGS, MI 49058 (269) 945-9585 JOAN TAGGART 2767 WING ROAD HASTINGS, MI 49058 77570069 (269) 948-9037 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Betty A May A Single Woman, original mortgagor(s), to National City Mortgage Services Co, Mortgagee, dated July 15, 2004, and recorded on July 16, 2004 in instrument 1130923, in Barry county records, Michigan, and assigned by mesne assignments to PNC Bank, National Association as assignee, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Forty-Six Thousand Forty-Two and 43/100 Dollars ($46,042.43). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 23, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 66 of Steven's Wooded Acres, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 4 or Plats, Page 31 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #394409F02 77569631 (07-26)(08-16) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by David T. Gross and April I. Gross, as husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to SBC Mortgage, LLC, Mortgagee, dated December 10, 2001, and recorded on January 9, 2002 in instrument 1072786, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Chemical Bank f/k/a Chemical Bank and Trust Company as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Eight Thousand Seven Hundred Thirty-One and 11/100 Dollars ($68,731.11). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on September 6, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Beginning at the Southeast corner of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 16, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, thence West 206.25 feet, thence North 206.25 feet, thence East 206.25 feet, thence South 206.25 feet to beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #404590F02 77569986 (08-09)(08-30) Case No. 12-141-CH CIRCUIT COURT SALE In pursuance and by virtue of a Judgment of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on the 17th day of July A.D., 2012 in a certain cause therein pending, wherein THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-9 was the Plaintiff and Teresa Herlein and Duane T. Herlein were the Defendants. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that I shall sell at public auction to the highest bidder, at public venue, at the Barry County Courthouse (that being the place of holding the Circuit Court for said County), on the 27th day of September A.D., 2012 at 1 o’clock in the forenoon, Eastern Standard Time, the following described property, viz: All certain piece or parcel of land situated in the Township of Thornapple, County of Barry and State of Michigan, described as follows: Lot 8, Near Lane Estates No. 1, as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats, Page 7, Barry County Records Tax ID: 14-140-0008-00 Commonly known as: 12942 Near Lane, Caledonia, MI 49316 This property may be redeemed during the six (6) months following the sale. Dated: August 9, 2012 Mark Sheldon Deputy Sheriff Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Ronald S. Glaser (P46986) Attorneys for Plaintiff 43252 Woodward Ave., Suite 180 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 (248) 335-9200 (08-09)(09-20) 77570085 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Mark J. Doctor and Shannon D. Doctor, husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated July 25, 2003 and recorded August 13, 2003 in Instrument Number 1110797, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Mortgage Center LLC by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-One Thousand One Hundred Fifty and 71/100 Dollars ($71,150.71) including interest at 4.625% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 09/06/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The land referred to in this Commitment, situated in the County of Barry, Township of Irving, State of Michigan, is described as follows: That part of the North 3/4 of the East 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 15, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, Irving Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Commencing at the South 1/4 corner of said Section; thence North 00 degrees 11 minutes 15 seconds East 655.01 feet along the East line of said Southwest 1/4; thence South 89 degrees 47 minutes 18 seconds West 286.0 feet along the South line of said North 3/4 to the place of beginning; thence South 89 degrees 47 minutes 18 seconds West 345.44 feet along said South line; thence North 00 degrees 05 minutes 37 seconds East 547.54 feet to reference point "A"; thence South 66 degrees 31 minutes 14 seconds East 377.06 feet; thence South 00 degrees 11 minutes 15 seconds West 396.00 feet to the place of beginning. Subject to and together with an easement for ingress, egress and utility purposes over a 66 foot wide strip of land, the centerline of which is described as: Commencing at the South 1/4 corner of Section 15, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, Irving Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence North 00 degrees 11 minutes 15 seconds East 1369.01 feet along the East line of said Southeast 1/4 to the place of beginning; thence South 89 degrees 47 minutes 18 seconds West 450.75 feet along the North line of the South 714 feet of the North 3/4 East 1/2 of said Southwest 1/4; thence South 47 degrees 37 minutes 18 seconds West 247.22 feet to reference point "A"; thence South 66 degrees 31 minutes 14 seconds East 220.0 feet to the point of ending of said easement; also over a 66 foot wide strip of land beginning at said reference point "A"; thence South 89 degrees 47 minutes 18 seconds West 220.0 feet to the point of ending of said easements. The redemption period shall be 12 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: August 9, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 393.0702 77570054 (08-09)(08-30) �Page 12 — Thursday, August 9, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Registration for Summerfest sports ongoing Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 For Sale Garage Sale 100% WOOD HEAT, no worries. Keep your family safe and warm with an Outdoor Wood Furnace from Central Boiler. D-2 Outdoor Wood Boilers. (616)877-4081. 2 FAMILY GARAGE sale August 10th, 11th, & 12th, 95pm. 820 Willitts Rd., Hastings. Miscellaneous items, kids clothes 5T and under. AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 CENTRAL BOILER CLASSIC OUTDOOR WOOD FURNACE- Provides safe heat for entrie home & domestic water. Great summer sale. 25 year warranty. Call SOS your ”Stocking Dealer” Dutton, MI (616)554-8669 or (616)915-5061. Lawn & Garden AQUATIC PLANTS: OUR Lotus & Water Lilies are ready! Also Koi & Goldfish, pumps, filters & pond supplies. APOLS WATER GARDENS, 9340 Kalamazoo, Caledonia MI. (616)6981030 M-F 9:00-5:30, Sat 9:002:00. For Rent 3 BEDROOM 2 bath home. fully furnished. No pets, no smoking. Delton Schools on Wall Lake, September thru June. $875 per month plus utilities. (517)749-1851 OFFICE SPACE for rent, 750 sq.ft. at 207 E. Mill Street. Private parking. (269)9488463. PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 Business Services BASEMENT WATERPROOFING: PROFESSIONAL BASEMENT SERVICES waterproofing, crack repair, mold remediation. Local/licensed. Free estiGARAGE SALE 1474 E. mates. (517)290-5556. Center Rd. Bikes, mopeds, BOOKKEEPING scooters, clothing, furniture, SERVICES fishing items, misc. items. Personal * Self-Employed * August 9 - 14th, morning to Small Business Payroll * dark. Billing Accounts Receivable * Accounts Payable Automotive General Ledger Weekly * Monthly * Quar2003 CADILLAC ESCAterly * Annually LADE: loaded 85,000mi. Call today! (269)420-5714 20”/wheels, 6 disc CD player, Boise System, leather heated seats front & back. Help Wanted $15,500. (269)945-5571 25 DRIVER TRAINEES RICK TAYLOR’S DETAIL Needed NOW! WORKS. The only professio- Become a driver for nal detail service. Call Schneider National! Earn $750 per week! (269)948-0958. No experience needed! Local CDL Training! National Ads Job ready in 15 days! ATTN: LOCAL PEOPLE 1-877-649-2697. needed to work from home online. $500-$4500 per Recreation month. Please call 1-888-6722008 FLHX STREET glide 4954. H.D. Detachable accessories, THIS PUBLICATION new stereo with CD, 16k DOES NOT KNOWINGLY miles, $17,500, (269)945-5571. accept advertising which is WANTED HUNTING deceptive, fraudulent or LAND: (2) Families are inmight otherwise violate law terested in leasing acreage or accepted standards of for this years deer season. taste. However, this publicaCall (269)795-3049 tion does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the GET EASY CASH with extra quality of goods or services household goods and tools! advertised. Readers are cau- Call (269) 945-9554 to sell tioned to thoroughly investi- your unwanted stuff with a gate all claims made in any classified ad in this paper. advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you ask for money in advance of delivery of goods or services advertised. Estate Sale ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. MOBILE HOME WITH expando, 3 bedrooms, 2 porches, appliances available, 3 car garage available. Thornapple Lake Estates, lot 113. (517)852-9070, (517)317-3351. $5,900 obo. • SATURDAY AUG. 25TH Basketball Tournament will be held at Tyden Park Aug. 25. Teams of 3 or 4 plays need to register by Aug. 17. The cost is $25 per team. Registered teams may begin to check in at 8:30 a.m. and the first games will begin no later than 9:30 a.m. Contact Brett Bremer for more information at 269-945-9554, ext. 227. A men’s softball tournament will be held at Fish Hatchery Park. The tournament is open to 12 teams, at a cost of $150 per team. The first teams to sign-up will take the 12 spots. Contact Aaron Snyder for more information at 269-838-8986. A tennis tournament will once again be held at the Hastings High School, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. There will be singles, doubles and mixed doubles competitions in age brackets that include 12-18, 19-35 and 36-and-up. Contact Paty LaJoye for more COURT NEWS Tony Allen Green, 35, of Nashville, was sentenced for controlled substance delivery manufacture of marijuana, controlled substance marijuana on or near school property, controlled substance delivery of Schedule 1, 2 or 3, and a probation violation. Schedule 1 is a drug or other substance that has a high potential for abuse, such as heroine or marijuana. Schedule 2 includes opium, cocaine and amphetamines. Schedule 3 includes anabolic steroids, Vicoden and Tylenol with codeine. On Aug. 2, Green was ordered to serve three concurrent terms of 23 to 72 months with credit for 107 days served. He was also sentenced on the same day for controlled sub- stance delivery, manufacture of marijuana and habitual offender fourth offense for which he was ordered to serve 24 to 180 concurrent months with credit for one day served. Green must pay $3,032 in court assessments. Charges dropped include five additional counts of controlled substance delivery manufacture of marijuana, three counts of controlled substance marijuana on or near school property, one for controlled substance possession Schedule 1, 2 or 3, one additional of controlled substance delivery Schedule 1, 2 or 3, and one count of controlled substance maintaining a drug house and habitual offender second offense. POLICE BEAT Deputy discovers electrifying investigation Consumers Energy called the Barry County Sheriff’s Department June 21 because of a suspicious vehicle parked at their Brogan Road substation. Deputies observed a 2000 silver-colored Chevy Impala with one occupant in the driver’s seat. When deputies made contact with the car’s male occupant, he identified himself as a private detective. The man said he was investigating a person, who lived on the road, for insurance fraud. He then provided documents to validate his statements. The deputies called Consumers Energy and reported their findings. Mobile Homes TYDEN PARK It is time for those interested in participating in the many sporting opportunities during the annual Hastings Summerfest to sign-up for their respective activities. Summerfest will be held the weekend of August 24-26. The annual 10K-5K runs will be held Aug. 25, beginning at 8:30 a.m. Those who enter by Aug. 17 will pay a $20 entry fee. The cost is $25 after that. Registration can be done online at www.active.com. A 5K walk will also begin at 8:30 a.m. Contact Jamie VerStrate for more information at 269-9483139. A Fun Run will also be held Aug. 25, beginning at the Hastings Middle School parking lot at 9:45 a.m. There is no charge to participate in the Fun Run. The annual Jim Jensen Memorial 3-on-3 Video game brings in the law Deputies were dispatched to a Long Point Drive address near Plainwell for a possible domestic situation June 21. Arriving on the scene, deputies observed young boys playing combat-style video games on a large television with the volume turned up. Reportedly, a deputy yelled at the boys through the home’s windows, but was not heard. An older lady then came to the door, assured deputies everything was just fine and apologized for the noise. 26, he noticed a hole on the west side of his house. The man believes the holes are from a BB gun or pellet gun. Photos were taken of the damage. Door knob turns slowly every morning CSP Lifeline contacted Barry County Central Dispatch on July 31 to report someone was trying to enter their client’s house at 2:47 a.m. Deputies arrived and checked the perimeter of the residence on East Dowling Road. Reportedly, the exterior of the residence was secure and each door knob had spider’s webs and appeared to have little use. The homeowner told deputies her door knob is turned every morning between 3 and 5 a.m. Dispatch informed deputies they had no report of this happening elsewhere. Man’s bikes and shades go missing A man called deputies Aug. 1 to report two bicycles had been taken from his River Street yard in Middleville and suspected the thief entered his Equinox vehicle at the same time to steal two pairs of sunglasses. He told deputies the bicycles were not secured and parked near the entrance to his home. He described both bikes, the 26” men’s Mongoose mountain bike and a men’s Kent BMX bike, as blue and silver in color. The Equinox was parked in his driveway, but unlocked. There are no suspects. Man’s golden retirement is taken from him Moving the couch is A woman called the Sheriff’s Department July 30 to report jewelry had catalyst for arrest been stolen from her father’s residence on East Hickory Road. She suspected a family friend who had complete access to her father’s home and knew the family’s schedule. She reported more than $4,900 in jewelry was missing including gold and diamond retirement gifts. Reportedly, the 60year-old male suspect is frequently in Battle Creek where drugs may be obtained. $ COST… 25 per team of 3 or 4 players Entries must be to the Chamber by Friday, Aug. 17th CHECK IN… 8:30 AM Make checks payable to Hastings Summerfest 2012 Pick up T-shirts at this time TIP OFF… 9:30 AM Boys & Girls (Ages 12-14) Team Name ____________________ Boys & Girls (Ages 15-17) Men & Women (Ages 18-25) Men & Women (Ages 26 & up) Age brackets subject to change based on participation Team Captain___________________________________ Age _______ Send Entries to… Phone # __________________________ 77569647 Team Members Age Age ___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________ Please fill out form completely TYDEN PARK • Barry County Chamber of Commerce 221 W. State Street Hastings, MI 49058 Questions ??… Call (269) 948-3025 SATURDAY AUG. 25TH A case of holey siding On July 31, deputies were called to Coats Grove Road for reported damage to property. The caller told deputies the siding of his house was damaged, and he wanted it documented. The man told deputies he was having an easement dispute with one of his neighbors and had recently served the neighbor with court documents. He said on July 24 he noticed a hole on the north side of his house, but after walking around the house found no additional holes. On July Deputies responded to a reported theft of auto parts on Lawrence Road near Nashville. The caller informed deputies two catalytic converters were sawed off his two Dodge Dakota trucks. On July 14, the caller told deputies he started up one of the trucks and it was very loud. After looking underneath, he found the catalytic converter had been cut out of the exhaust. The same was true for his second truck. He suspected one of his rental tenants who recently moved out. The complainant told deputies he had seen the man with a battery powered saw with a metal cutting blade. He did not know where the 49-year-old man had moved. The suspect was found at Padnos selling scrap, but denied taking the converters. He provided deputies with a new address. On July 23, the complainant found one of the converters in the suspect’s old apartment, under the couch. Deputies spoke with the suspect, who denied there was a converter underneath his couch. A warrant request was sent to the Prosecutor’s Office. information at 269-945-9776. The 3-on-3 Soccer Classic will be played at Fish Hatchery Park Aug. 25, beginning at 9 a.m. The tournament is open to all teams, any level of play and in any organization. There will be U8, U10, U12 and U14 boys’ and girls’ divisions as well as a high school girls’ division. There is a max of five players per team. The cost to participate is $80 per team for those who have signed up by Aug. 10. The cost is $100 for those registrations received Aug. 11-15. Mail registrations to Hastings FC, c/o Sarah Smith, 9608 100th St. SE, Alto, MI, 49302. More information is available at www.hastingsfc.com, by calling Smith at 616-706-1151, or through email at hastingsfc49058@yahoo.com. LHS grad signs on to pitch for DU Lakewood High School graduate Alex Schuiling was announced as one of nine new pitchers for the Davenport University baseball program last month. Davenport head baseball coach Kevin Tidey and his staff have put together a solid recruiting class for the 2013 program. Tidey, beginning his second year at the helm of the Panther program, has added nine new arms to the a lineup that finished second in the Wolverine Hoosier Athletic Conference a year ago and set a school record with 35 wins. The incoming pitchers include five that are transfers and four freshmen. Schuiling, one of those freshmen, is a lefthanded pitcher who was the first to join the DU class for the 2013 season. “Alex is a very polished left handed pitcher,” said Tidey. “He has command of multiple pitches, so he could be a contributor for us right away. Left-handed pitching is a big need for us, so we are very excited that Alex chose DU.” The Davenport University baseball program made a big step in 2012 under Tidey and with the latest additions to the team, the Panthers are ready to make another step up in the conference next spring. “We are very pleased with this year’s recruiting class,” said Tidey. “Our goal was to bring in quality players that could increase our internal competition. We focused on improving the depth of our pitching staff, improving our overall team speed, and adding some left handed hitting to our lineup for the upcoming season. My staff worked very hard to bring in a large number of quality recruits, and we feel this is our best overall class to date.” Other freshmen from around the are in the DU class include Blake Dahlstrom from Grand Ledge, Corey Sessions from Forest Hills Eastern, and Corey Murphy from Grand Rapids West Catholic. Local MMA fighters part of festivities at Pure Michigan 400 Team TrainWreck is gearing up for its highlight of the summer. Six members of the TrainWreck Fight Alliance (TWFA) have matches scheduled at the Total Warrior Combat (TWC) Road to the Gold event at Michigan International Speedway (MIS) in Brooklyn, which is scheduled for Aug. 17. TWC has partnered with MIS to bring an MMA event to the speedway on the same weekend as NASCAR is in town for the Pure Michigan 400. “This is a pilot event with the potential to expand to perhaps 10-12 different NASCAR venues next season. It is an incredible opportunity for our young athletes and we are excited about the prospect,” said TWFA operator/fight agent Rob Fisk. General admission tickets are $20 to the event. The cost for a VIP Table is $400. Tickets are available at the gates or at www.twczone.com. The fights will take place inside the New Holland Fan Plaza at the Budweiser Acceleration Club inside MIS. The doors open at 4 p.m. and fighting is scheduled to begin at 5 p.m. Ticket packages are also available to include admittance to the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race Saturday at MIS and the NASCAR Spring Cup Series Pure Michigan 400 Sunday. Call 945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 9, 2012 — Page 13 Looking For a PRINTER? 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We process 35mm Advanced Photo System and 120 film on site. 1 Hour or Next Day Processing • COLOR COPIES • COMMERCIAL PRINTING • INVITATIONS & MORE Conveniently located near you! J-Ad Graphics Printing Plus Charlotte Litho 1351 North M-43 Highway (just north of city limits) Hastings, MI 49058-0188 144 S. Cochran (right on Charlotte’s Main Street) Charlotte, Michigan 48813 (269) 945-5078 Fax (269) 945-5192 (517) 543-4041 Fax (517) 543-2272 Marshall Printing Plus Lowell Litho COMPLETE BINDERY 514 S. Kalamazoo Avenue Marshall, Michigan 49068 WEB AND SHEETFED OFFSET PRINTING (269) 727-0091 Fax (269) 727-0090 105 N. Broadway St. Lowell, MI 49331 (616) 897-9261 Fax (616) 897-4809 �Page 14 — Thursday, August 9, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lakewood alumni make it 3-0 in series with Ionia by Brett Bremer Sports Editor “That’s not fair, he’s the fittest man in the world,” was the shout from the crowd of players huddled at midfield. The statement came as the T-shirt for the MVP of Saturday’s annual alumni football game between Lakewood and Ionia was tossed to Rich Froning. Froning helped the Lakewood team improve to 3-0 against its rivals to the north. He hauled in two touchdown passes from teammate Kris Vezino in the Lakewood team’s 18-6 win over its hosts in the first of the contests played at Ionia High School. The previous two meetings were played at Lakewood High School. “I think this is something that’s hopefully going to continue for the next ten to 15 years,” said Lakewood team captain Ashton King. “I think it has enough draw, and we’re starting to get older guys. I know that sounds kind of different. I think more older guys continue to come out. We had a 59-year-old play, Jim Larson, I mean he’s amazing for being that old and still being able to play. That’s The members of the 2012 Lakewood alumni football team stand at attention as the Star Spangled Banner plays prior to Saturday’s contest in Ionia. (Photo by Brett Bremer) awesome.” Larson got the T-shirt for the game’s oldest player at the end of the evening. “To be honest, I think this is our best squad yet,” King said. “This is our best squad yet. We did have a little diversity as far as place, not everyone was from Lakewood all of them, but I don’t think that really mattered for the most part.” The Lakewood offense marched down the field to score touchdowns on each of its first three possessions. The Vikings went 69 yards on their first possession to score on a 20-yard pass from Vezino to Froning. Froning then hauled in a 33-yard pass from Vezino early in the second quarter on a fourth-down play to put the Lakewood team up 12-0. Ionia fumbled the kick-off which followed Froning’s second TD. Lakewood scored on another fourth-down play, this time on a 19yard pass from Vezino to Marc Miller that made it 18-0. Lightning lit up the western sky late in the first half, and officials made the decision to head to the locker rooms with 1:21 left in the first half. The teams then used a running clock in the second half to make up for the minor delay. The sky let loose a sprinkle as the second half began, but the parking lot was emptying before the are received a much needed heavy downpour of rain. Ionia scored its lone touchdown on a 15yard pass on the final play of the third quarter. “It’s a good rivalry,” said Ionia varsity football coach Mike Holes to the assembled group of players after the contest. “It’s a rivalry game. Everybody knows that. I’m glad to be a part of it. Thanks for coming over and playing this game. Hopefully you can get back next year. Next year we’ll be over at Lakewood for this. Hopefully, we can keep this going because it is a good fundraiser for both teams.” The contest raises funds, through both participation fees and ticket sales, for the Lakewood and Ionia football programs. “We had a lot of participation this year,” King said. “We actually had more of a range of age this year. Our average age this year had to have been at least 34, which is nice to see. Lakewood players Tommy Pett and Rich Froning celebrate Froning’s first quarter touchdown reception during Saturday’s alumni football game at Ionia High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) I know (Ionia captain) Andy (Nobis) was saying he actually had more guys committed this year to playing, which is nice to see always. “For the most part I think everybody is starting to catch on to how the game is played, so that’s nice too. There are a few rules that are different to make the game a little more exciting. I’m glad that we were able to finish the game out.” The Vikings won the inaugural game between the two teams two years ago, 23-0, and won the 2011 game 28-14. More than 60 turn out for football camp A group of about 60 young football players turned out for last month’s youth football camp, at Hastings High School. Lakewood’s Nick Boucher, the new Viking varsity football head coach, leaps up to incercept a pass in front of Ionia’s Nate Hawley during Saturday’s alumni football game at Ionia High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The high school football season is officially underway, but it was youngsters who took over Johnson Field inside Baum Stadium last month. The Hastings High School Football team hosted a youth football camp in July that drew more than 60 area youth football players. The camp was offered through the Community Education and Recreation Center, for students going into third through eighth grade this fall. The Hastings High School football coaches teamed with varsity players and HYAA coaches to help the youths develop specific skills related to youth football. The youth camp ran for four days and covered tackling and agility drills, play development and defensive pursuit for the young players. Both coaching staffs enjoyed the team environment the camp provided for the young athletes. Young football players work on offensive fundamentals during the youth football camp in Hastings, under the guidance of high school and HYAA coaches as well as varsity players. From left to right: David J. Heeringa, D.O., Orthopedic Surgeon; James L. Horton, Jr., D.O., Orthopedic Surgeon; Eric S. Leep, D.O., Physical Medicine; Kenneth S. Merriman, M.D., Orthopedic Surgeon. People. Passion. Technology Phone 269.945.9520 / Toll Free 800.596.1005 07606071 Welcome to Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, your musculoskeletal experts close to home. We specialize in the Art of Total Orthopedic Care, Physical Medicine, and Pain Management. We provide the highest degree of service in an efficient, personal, and professional manner. Our focus is to maximize the health, function, and quality of life of the population we serve. Lakewood Meet the Team night Aug. 20 The Lakewood High School athletic department will host Meet the Team for its fall sports teams on Monday, Aug. 20, at 7 p.m. in the new high school gymnasium. Lakewood Athletic Director, William Barker, will be speaking on several key issues regarding the Lakewood High School athletic programs and Lakewood athletes. The athletic office will be selling passes, signing individuals up to work six events to earn one free pass for the 2012-13 school year, and accepting payment of the $155 participation fee starting at 6:30 p.m. in the gym. Pass prices are as follows for the school year: Family pass: $175.00; Couple pass: $100.00; Single Adult pass: $75.00; and Student pass: $25.00. These passes allow you entry into any Lakewood home sporting event for the entire school year. Student Activity passes will be sold for $40. These passes will allow a high school student to attend any Lakewood home sporting event and will gain them entry into the Homecoming and Winterfest dances along with two other dances throughout the school year that will be announced at a later date. Following Meet the Team, each coach will meet with their players and parents and go over his/her expectations for the season such as practice and game policies, transportation policy, and any extras. They will also answer any questions or concerns parents may have. All up-to-date sports schedules are available at www.lakewoodps.org under the high school athletic tab. Those with any questions you may call the athletic office at 616-374-0211, or contact the office through email at barkerb@lakewoodps.org or spetoskeyl@lakewoodps.org. The athletic department is in need of volunteer workers for the 2012-13 sport seasons. Those who are able to help out are asked please contact the office. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-08-16.pdf 53184a4d44ee1d12f055153d4bcc4b85 PDF Text Text Governor drops in at Hastings airport A good education is hard to measure Marines push Panthers at practice See Story on Page 16 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 15 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 32 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, August 16, 2012 NEWS City approves first step toward urban BRIEFS services agreement with Rutland Township Art Park reception is tonight Everyone is invited to attend the closing reception for Hastings’ inaugural Art Park program, a four-week art camp for youths in grades six through 12. The event will be from 5 to 7 p.m. today, Thursday, Aug. 16. in Hastings’ First Ward Park. Guests will have an opportunity to enjoy live music and light refreshments in addition to viewing art created by camp participants, including graffiti art, paper mache and found object assemblage. Mary Rademacher to perform season finale at fountain Fridays at the Fountain will conclude the 2012 season Aug. 17 with a return performance by Grand Rapids entertainer Mary Rademacher. After graduating from Michigan State University, Rademacher toured throughout the United States, Asia and South Pacific with the USO and Department of Defense, singing and dancing with a show band. Her travels brought her back to Michigan, where she was a headliner at Tootsie Van Kelly’s in the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, until the restaurant closed in 1995. Rademacher is invited to sing with The Paul Keller Orchestra and continues to work with Keller in various jazz venues. Fridays at the Fountain concerts are each week during the summer months from noon to 1:30 p.m. on the Barry County Courthouse lawn. In the event of rain the concerts move indoors to the community room at the Hastings City Bank, 150 W. Center St. Choral society, jazz orchestra presenting evening of jazz Saturday, Aug. 18, the Lakewood Area Choral Society and the Thornapple Jazz Orchestra will present a joint concert at 7:30 p.m. at Grace Community Church, 8950 E. M-79, Nashville. Music for the evening will include vintage and contemporary literature for the big band performed by the Thornapple Jazz Orchestra. Music from the libraries of Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Glenn Miller, and Benny Goodman will be included in the program. The choral society will sing a variety of old standards including “Unforgettable,” “Ain’t Misbehavin’,” and “Time after Time. “Vocal soloists include Lisa Sterkenburg; “Come Rain or Come Shine,” Jean Weygandt; “When I Fall in Love,” Jim DeYoung; “You’re Nobody ‘til Somebody Loves You,” and Lisa Bondarenko; “How High the Moon.” The two groups will combine to perform “Blue Skies” and “Route 66.” Tickets are not required. A freewill offering will be taken during the program. Doors open at 7 p.m. by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer After more than five years of discussion, the City of Hastings and Rutland Charter Township are one step closer to signing an urban services agreement, which would allow the city to provide sewer, water and other public services to portions of the township included in the planned urban services area. Five days after the Rutland Charter Township board approved the intergovernmental agreement by a 5-2 vote, Hastings City Council approved the agreement during its Aug. 13 meeting by an 8-1 vote, with Mayor pro-tem Brenda McNabb-Stange casting the dissenting vote. McNabb-Stange said she did not object to the agreement but felt that some of the language needed to be clarified before it was approved in order to prevent potential misunderstandings or misinterpretations by succeeding city councils and township boards. “I understand Brenda’s needs and wishes,” said Hastings Mayor Bob May. “But, I also understand six years, it has been six years of work that the townships and the council and this board has worked. I am glad to see we have been able to come to some kind of an agreement; at least for now.” “The city’s primary concern throughout this process has been the provision of public services to promote growth in a prudent, rational manner,” said Hastings City Manager Jeff Mansfield. “What we’ve really See AGREEMENT, page 2 This map shows the proposed Urban Services Area in Rutland Township. County board gives nursing home projects wider location options by Doug VanderLaan Editor Barry County is now open for business to new nursing homes, following Tuesday’s approval by the board of commissioners to amend a zoning ordinance that will allow new nursing home construction in most zoning designations of the county. “We had somebody come to the department with a wish to operate a brand new nursing home facility,” Planning and Zoning Director Jim McManus told commissioners at their meeting. “In reviewing the ordinance, we found that, although we have a definition of a nursing home, we don’t have any ordinance language.” McManus submitted to commissioners suggested amendment language that provides regulations and conditions over which the county has jurisdiction including lot size, setback distances, exterior lighting, signs, street parking, and landscaping. Commissioner Dan Parker asked McManus about state jurisdiction and McManus’ knowledge of a moratorium established by the state on the creation of new nursing homes. “This will be a privately run nursing home,” replied McManus in reference to an applicant who had visited his office. “The applicant has been working with the state and has not indicated that he is not being permitted to go ahead.” County Administrator Michael Brown provided additional perspective, pointing out the difference in state oversight of a publicly owned nursing facility such as Thornapple Manor and several other private facilities within the county. “I think the issue [with the state] was a certificate of need application,” said Brown. “I believe the state does limit the number of beds that are eligible for state funding through Medicaid. My guess is that this is a facility that will be not only privately operated but private pay and not anticipating or looking for Medicaid reimbursement or eligibility.” McManus alerted commissioners to similar amendments that will likely be requested not only in regard to the nursing home issue and a related group day care change he presented that adds all zoning districts to the ordinance, but to other activities and businesses not yet seen. “As society changes and people have different ideas than we anticipated, then we need to bring language to match those ideas that we had no thought of,” said McManus. “In 1976, when the last ordinance was created, we had no idea for a skate park or a dog park.” Commissioners approved both text amendments on a 7-0 vote with Commission Chair Craig Stolsonburg absent. In other business, the commission: • Approved the purchase of 16 data sheet printers for county sheriff road vehicles at a cost of $8,995 to be paid from the diverted felons fund. • Approved a $32,262 bid from McKeough Bros. Inc. for a Housing Quality Standard Rehab project at 314 S. Park St. in Hastings to be paid from HOME funds. • Approved a change to Animal Control/Shelter Advisory Board bylaws to allow meetings to be held the third Wednesday of each month. • Approved a budget amendment that increases the general fund revenue and expenditure budgets by $6,471 reflecting previously unknown expenses to the health and safety fund offset by the revenue increase for the cigarette tax; an increase to the airport appropriation to correct an effort in the original amount budgeted; an economic development appropriation for dues to participate in the West Michigan Regional Planning Commission as approved by the board June 12; a salary increase for the district court judge, as approved by the commission July 24; and special revenue adjustments reflecting amendments to the remonumentation funds, the economic development fund, and the airport fund. • Approved the renewal of an agreement with Professional Benefits Services Inc., to administer the county’s self-funded shortterm disability plan. The renewal includes a price increase from the current $2.05 per employee per month to $2.15 per employee per month. • Approved a three-year agreement with MGT of America to provide indirect cost account services at an annual total of $12,000, an expense included in the current budget. MGT of America will help the coun- See NURSING HOMES, pg. 3 Most school boards will see contests Lakewood is the only area school board without contested races in the upcoming election. Incumbents are being challenged in Delton Kellogg, Maple Valley and Thornapple Kellogg districts. In Hastings, three newcomers are running for two vacant seats. Tuesday, Aug. 14, was the deadline for candidates to file for election to area school boards. School board elections will be part of the Nov. 6 general election. Delton Kellogg The Delton Kellogg Board of Education will have three people vying for two seats in November. Incumbent Jennifer Bever, who is seeking re-election to the board, is being challenged by newcomers Steve Hook and Kellie Martin. Current Vice President Paul Hughes is not seeking another term. Hastings When Hastings voters go to the polls Tuesday, Nov. 6, they will be asked to choose between three candidates for two six-year seats on the Hastings Area Schools Board of Education. Incumbent board trustee Jon Hart is running unopposed for a partial term ending Dec. 31, 2014. Valerie Slaughter, Stephen Williams and Louis Wierenga are running for seats currently held by long-term board members Gene Haas and Patricia Endsley, who are not seeking re-election. Hart is running for the seat he was appointed to in December 2011 after trustee Scott Hodges resigned from the board the previous month. Lakewood Trustee Brian Potter and Vice President Jeff Gibbs are running unopposed for two seats on the Lakewood Board of Education in the November election. Maple Valley Maple Valley School Board has two positions open on the November ballot. Incumbents Trustee Tim Burd and President April Heinze will face challengers Melissa Kirwin Faurot and Larry Filter. Thornapple Kellogg Five candidates will seek two open seats on the Thornapple Kellogg Board of Education in November. Filing to retain their seats were Don Haney and Cynthia Ordway. Challengers are James Bryan Jr., Doug Essenberg and Aaron Wissner. Both open seats are six-year terms. Hastings students to have shorter days, longer school year by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Students in Hastings Area Schools will spend five extra days in the classroom this year, but school days will be 10 minutes shorter. “We added more days to meet state requirements; because the state increased the minimum number of days to 170 and will continue to gradually increase the number of days,” said Hastings Area Schools Superintendent Todd Geerlings. According to Geerlings, the state used to require a minimum of 180 days but several years ago waived the day requirement in favor of a set number of instructional hours for each school year. Classes resume Tuesday, Sept. 4, and will continue through Friday, May 31. School hours for 2012-13 will be: • High school 7:50 a.m. to 3:05 p.m. (dismissing at noon on half days) • Middle school 8 a.m. to 3:10 p.m. (until 11:50 a.m. on half days) • Elementary 8 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. (dismissing at 11:55 a.m. on half days) “We’re excited about adding the days because that means five more days of instruction,” said Geerlings. �Page 2 — Thursday, August 16, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Gun Lake association approves extra marine patrol by Fran Faverman Staff Writer The Gun Lake Protective Association approved a motion to spend up to $2,000 to support additional hours of patrol time on the lake during the fireworks display. The decision was made Saturday, Aug. 11, during the association’s annual meeting. The 85 members present voted 52-10. Passage of the motion solves a problem encountered by the association’s board of directors when they attempted to secure a contract with the Barry County Sheriff’s Department for additional hours of patrol time on the lake. Because the department as a public agency cannot contract with private groups such as the GLPA, a public intermediary is required to do the contract. Given the opposition voiced by some GLPA members at meetings of the boards of the two townships to the additional patrol hours, both the boards of trustees of Yankee Springs and Orangeville townships declined to engage in such a contract without a clear determination by the membership that the proposal had their support. Additional concerns raised by members at the meeting were fracking and the additional marine patrol hours. Riehl said there is nothing the association can do about fracking; “We did as much as we could,” he said, noting that horizontal fracking under the lake is possible. Members said they would like to see the additional marine patrol hours focused on speeders as well as providing a protection zone for the fireworks. Funneling, which was one of the primary concerns expressed when a contract was first sought by the board, received a negative response from many members. Riehl welcomed the audience and opened the business portion of the meeting noting that the long, hot and dry summer has lowered the level of the lake by four inches, amounting to the loss of over 1 billion gallons of water or approximately 9.5 percent of its normal volume. Sgt. Julie Jones, commander of the Barry County Sheriff’s Department Marine Division, said the department was grateful to all the persons and businesses who provided help to the department in the attempt first to rescue Jhalak Bhattarai and then to recover his body when he drowned Memorial Day weekend. She added it had not been possible at the time to get the names of all the people who had helped; she asked the members who were aware of someone who had helped to please call the department and supply the names of the helpers. She said the response demonstrated the community’s love for the lake and closed, saying, “We are proud to be your partner.” In her formal report, Jones said the department had issued 53 citations for violations ranging from reckless operation to violation of the 100-foot rule to minors in possession of alcohol. She said boater safety courses had more than 700 students through June 30. Another major activity by the department was participation in Operation Dry Water June 22 and 23, a national campaign to educate the public on the effects of alcohol when on the water. Boaters were also advised that there would be increased patrols. No citations for drunken boating were issued. Responding to a question from the audience, Jones said the department was in the initial stages of planning for creation of a marine auxiliary unit composed of volunteers. She stressed that at this point no decisions had been made; the possibility of a unit similar to a posse was being considered. Questions about noise from certain boats also were raised. Jones explained that the law is difficult to enforce because it different levels are allowed on land, or shore, and on the water. Association President Jim Riehl added that there have been no successful prosecutions for noise under the current law. Andru Jevicks, manager of Yankee Springs State Park, updated the group on changes to the park, specifically the donation by the association of an information board so notices could be posted and the construction of two steel skid piers. He presented two plaques that honor the association’s contributions and will be mounted appropriately in the park. Most of his commentary was devoted to the continuing struggle to determine the source of the E. coli contamination that resulted in the closure of the main beach at the park. He said the Barry-Eaton District Health Department had closed the main beach July 12 after repeated samplings showed an increase in the amount of E. coli in the water. An advisory noting the presence of undesirable levels of E. coli had been posted earlier. He said members of the association had also helped in collecting samples. The health department and the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality water division began concerted efforts to find the source of contamination, said Jevicks. One possibility is the presence of 140 geese and the resulting deposits; daily beach clean-up is performed by park employees. A second possibility is a leak in a sewer line. Pressure-testing and televising of the Gun Lake Area Sewer and Water Authority lines revealed no leaks from those lines. The lines from the park’s old sewer system cannot undergo pressure testing because of their age. Some professionals, he said, believe the attempt to pressure test the 50-year-old lines at 100 pounds per square inch would blow the lines, while others think the risk is acceptable. The Michigan State University Water Laboratory was engaged to take soil samples and analyze them. Jevicks said the results from the laboratory were not yet available. Park management and the health department are well aware of the effects of closing the main day use beach area on local businesses, Jevicks told the association. The park normally averages 800,000 to 1 million visitors a year. He added that the campground beach was not affected by the problem, and swimming at that beach was permitted. The Old Beach has consistently tested at safe levels and is safe for swimming. If the problem cannot be solved, the ultimate solution may be to move the main beach to another location on the park property. Two perennial favorites of members were lauded. The fireworks display was described as the best ever and was funded entirely through donations amounting to $15,000. The fish stocking program put 56,000 fingerlings in and added 2,000 six- to eight-inch walleyes. The state of the lake report from Jan Tynen, reporting for the Gun lake Improvement Board, is generally good. She said Eurasian milfoil continues to be the No. 1 targeted invasive species, and an herbicide continues to be used because harvesting is not effective against the plant. A second target is starry stonewort, which can be harvested except in shallow water. She described it as an “algae on steroids,” noting that it grows in mats six feet thick. The lake is now testing below 20 parts per billion for phosphorus, she said. Tynen concluded her report by saying zebra mussels appear to have reached a point where there is a balance with other life. Three directors were nominated and reelected to new three-year terms: Lynn Donaldson, secretary-treasurer; Bob Nelson, and Doug Smendik. AGREEMENT, continued from page 1 Rain forces Friday concert indoors Bill Bynum and Company play Folk and Country to the Fridays at the Fountain gathering Aug. 10. Steady rain drove music lovers inside for the first time this summer, and Hastings City Bank offered its community room as a musical refuge. Tomorrow, Aug. 17 will, be the final Friday at the Fountain with Mary Rademacher and Mark Kahny for jazz and Caberet. The musical celebration will again be on the Barry County Courthouse lawn, weather permitting. 77570229 been concerned with, more than anything else, is growth and development that might occur either within the city or at our boundaries; that is in the best interest of all the parties. Mansfield said availability of utilities would determine where the most intense urban development would occur. “We had those conversations with Rutland over many years and came to the conclusion that it wasn’t in anybody’s best interest to provide retail utility services without that key planning component,” he said. Mansfield said that development without planning could have an adverse impact on both the township and the city and that is why the JPA was formed to create master plans for each community in the JPA. He said the master plans of each municipality share a common goal and objective— to promote growth in a logical fashion while protecting the existing urban core and protect outlying areas against the types of growth and development that they don’t want to occur. The intergovernmental and urban services agreements are standard agreements, according to Mansfield. “There are a number of concessions in these agreements to try to address the concerns to address the township’s needs,” he said. “We worked very hard with the townships and not just Rutland. The initial JPA subcommittee consisted of representatives from all three of the townships we are working with [Rutland, Carlton and Hastings] as well as Barry County. We worked really hard to come up with an agreement that will meet their needs and still protect the long-term viability of the community.” Now that the IGA has been approved by both the township and the city, it is up to the Joint Planning Alliance for approval during its next meeting scheduled for 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 20. The intergovernmental agreement does several things. It finalizes the boundaries of the urban services and economic development agreement area and places the USA, once approved, in escrow with the Barry County Administrator while the township finances the extension of the sewer and water system to the urban services district. Upon completion of the extension, within five years, the USA will be removed from escrow and filed with the Barry County clerk and the secretary of state; at which time the USA becomes effective; if the extension is not completed in five years, the IGA will terminate and the USA will be void. The IGA also defines the process for the city and township to establish future USDs, within the urban services economic boundaries beyond the initial district. The IGA will remain in effect until terminated by mutual agreement of both parties, terminated because of failure of the township to complete the sewer and water extension project within five years, or when the USA terminates after 50 years. If the IGA is approved by the JPA, the township and city will then schedule public hearings and consider action on the second step of the process — approval of the urban services agreement. Should the USA be approved by both entities, 30 days after the public hearings as required, it will be up to the JPA to give the final approval necessary for the USA to be put into action. The USA, states that the property in the district will transfer from the township to the city upon the earliest of the following: Dec. 31, following the connection to water and sewer, Dec. 31 after the voluntary transfer by the request of the property owner; or, Dec. 31 following the third anniversary of the effective date of the USA. The USA also spells out the jurisdiction between the city and the township regarding property in the USD. Until the property is transferred to the city, all jurisdiction remains with the township. After the transfer of property the jurisdictions are as follows: Ordinances — city, except for certain zoning and construction codes; property tax — city except for township collection of property taxes levied prior to the transfer; revenue collection other than property taxes — city; water and sewer — city; voting — city; land use and planning — shared, joint planning commission; zoning — city adopts zoning for USD based on recommendation from township; right of ways — city, except along state highways; liquor licenses — city after recommendation of township; pre-existing utility users — city will treat pre-existing users as city users; special assessments — township has jurisdiction of special assessments prior to the transfer, city has jurisdiction after the transfer; and, the city has jurisdiction over all matters not specifically retained by the township. During the term, the city would share with the township one mill of property tax for the first 25 years and a half mill for the remaining 25 years (subject to Headlee reductions). The agreement can be extended beyond 50 years through negotiations invoked by the township in the 45th year of the agreement. Jurisdiction remains with the city at the end of the 50-year term or voluntary extension. However, if the township can provide the urban services provided by the city, it may, three to five years before the expiration of the USA, conduct a public hearing to determine whether jurisdiction in the USD be under the city or the township at the expiration of the USA. If jurisdiction returns to the township, the city is under no obligation to continue to provide urban services after the expiration of the USA. During the USA the city may not annex any portion of the USD. “I’d like to thank the council for their support, and Mr. Mansfield — he works pretty hard for you all,” said Rutland Township Supervisor Jim Carr, after the council approved the IGA. “I do appreciate the support of city council on the agreement you just approved, and hopefully it is the first step, in many steps, to make it better for the whole community — not just Rutland, and not just the city.” In other business, the city council: • Amended the airport budget to increase revenue from the rental of hangars by $51,887 due to the recent construction of new hangars and amend several line items in expenditures, the largest of which is $206,550 to pay for the construction of the hangar that is currently being built. The amendment anticipates the use of $50,666 from the airport’s fund balance. At the end of 2011, the airport budget had a fund balance of $133,477. • Approved a request from the Barry Community Foundation’s Youth Advisory Council to hold its annual roof sit fundraiser downtown, in front of Second Hand Corners, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 3. • Approved a request from Valerie Byrnes, president of the Barry County Chamber of Commerce, on behalf of the Barry County Tourism Council, to use Tyden Park to host it’s second annual duck race starting at 2 p.m.. Sunday, Aug. 26. • Heard updates on the Michigan Department of Transportation M-37/M-43 reconstruction project and the Michigan Avenue bridge reconstruction project. Mansfield said the work on North Broadway is now approximately 10 days behind schedule. He said the contractor expects the work on the west side of North Broadway north of State Street will take about one month to complete. Once the work on North Broadway is complete, construction will move to South Broadway between Green and State streets and the intersection of Hanover and Green streets. Weather permitting, the Michigan Avenue bridge is expected to be open for traffic during the week of Aug. 20, according to Mansfield. • Set a special workshop for 6 p.m. Monday, Aug. 27, to discuss the future of Riverside Cemetery. Donna Brown named Senior Citizen of Year Local volunteer Donna Brown (far left) is named the 14th annual Senior Citizen of the Year during the Barry County Commission on Aging’s summer picnic last week at the COA building in Hastings. The award, sponsored by Hastings City Bank and the COA “offers a special chance for the community to single out that one special older person and present a token of admiration and appreciation,” says Tammy Pennington, COA director, (far right). Also pictured is Nancy Goodin of Hastings City Bank who made the presentation. Brown will receive a complimentary portrait photo and a convertible ride with a guest in next week’s Hastings Summerfest Parade. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 16, 2012 — Page 3 Told ‘The best we can do,’ Rutland approves agreement by Fran Faverman Staff Writer Rain fails to hinder archers at longbow invitational Archery enthusiasts gather at Historic Charlton Park to test their skills during this year’s Michigan Longbow Invitational over the weekend. Hit the correct orange clay target and a spring-loaded “turkey” flies out announcing a prize winner. Just as many youngsters received a prize as more seasoned archers Aug. 10 and 11 at Charlton Park. Dancing around the long-discussed issue of hotel construction within the township, trustees of the Rutland Charter Township Board took an important step toward that possibility at its regularly scheduled meeting held before a nearly full hours on Aug. 8. “Is this about the hotel?” queried Trustee Dorothy Flint when a proposed intergovernmental agreement allowing the sharing of urban service with the city of Hastings -- a key and needed component of possible hotel construction -- was raised as one of three agenda items for the evening. Township Supervisor Jim Carr confirmed that it was, then led a discussion that included public comment inquiries before requesting the board to approve the agreement. Township Attorney Craig Rolfe, in replying a resident’s questions about its value to taxpayers and to the community, confirmed that an intergovernmental agreement area does include a proposed hotel site and that, if the township seeks the business opportunity offered, needs the agreement in place. “Hastings’ policy is in the framework,” Rolfe said. “Rutland is reacting because it is not feasible for the township to do sewage treatment and to build a water system.” Rolfe also noted that a current sewer service agreement for part of the township ends in 10 years. Carr added that urban services are not limited services. He also noted that the agreement does not apply to lakes such as Algonquin. Resident Matt Spencer asked if the board had considered all other options. Carr replied that a proposal had been received from the Southwest Barry County Sewer and Water Authority. However, the proposal did not have the approval of that agency’s governing body. Spencer then asked for an estimate of tax revenue. Carr said he did not have an estimate but had been told that it was a wash, suggesting that the probable revenue to be derived NURSING HOMES, continued from pg. 1 ty in preparation and submission to the state of individual department costs, data required for proper percentage allocation of state and federal grants to the county. • Approved a permanent cost of living increase to two sheriff’s department command officers who retired under a previous contract providing this benefit. • Discussed commission member’s participation in the upcoming Day of Caring. • Received an introduction and statement of interest in the possible Animal Shelter Director position from Diane Newman of Assyria Township. • Met Kim Walton, program coordinator of the Michigan Alternative and Renewable Energy Center at Grand Valley State University, who has been selected by the county’s solid waste oversight committee to assess and to report on recycling activity in Barry County. According to Committee Chair Frank Fiala, Walton’s interview study will be concluded with a report to the committee in three months with a full report and recommendations targeted for commission overview in February 2013. The commission will meet next as a committee of the whole Tuesday, Aug. 21, in commission chambers at the county courthouse, beginning at 9 a.m. from the proposed hotel would likely equal the doubled district rates paid by current users of Hastings services in Rutland Township. Rolfe clarified that only the hotel property would pay Hastings taxes when transferred, then counseled trustees to avoid wariness. “I have been thinking about Dorothy’s question of last week, ‘Is this a good agreement for the township?’ After thought, [I’ve concluded] this is the only game in town. You have to get over the feeling of hostage. If this board wants to provide services, this is the best we can do.” After a brief silence, Carr called for a motion to approve the agreement for intergovernmental services with the city of Hastings incorporating, by reference, the urban services agreement, an escrow agreement, the map of the urban services eligibility area and the formal notice of project completion. Trustee Bill Hanshaw supported the motion and, on a roll call vote, the motion was approved 5-2 with Treasurer Sandy Greenfield and Trustee Rob Lee dissenting. The remaining items on the agenda were approved unanimously. The property at 2620 West M-179 was rezoned from C-1 commercial to mixed use at the request of Flexfab Inc.; the facility was previously used by a flooring company. The remaining item was ballot language for a proposal for a road millage that will appear on the November ballot. The proposal calls for a 1-mill levy for five years from 2012 to 2016 for road repairs; the millage is expected to raise $129,698 in its first year. Township officials indicated that a series of special board meetings may be necessary to meet required deadlines for the intergovernmental services agreement and that interested persons may wish to check with the township offices or the township website for the dates and times of the meetings. The official meeting time for the Rutland Township Board of Trustees is the second Wednesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. in the township hall with the next regular meeting of the board set for Sept. 12 at 7:30 p.m. in the township hall at 2461 Heath Road. Election clarification Not all races decided in August In last week’s primary election coverage in which all but 10 of 143 candidates ran as Republicans, the Banner failed to accurately point out that, in five specific races, Republican winners will face Democratic opponents in the Nov. 6 general election. On the Barry County Commission, District 1 Republican winner Howard Gibson will face Democrat Tom Huis in November and, in District 3, Democrat Barb Cichy will square off against Republican primary winner Joyce Snow. In Hastings Charter Township, Democrat Keith Murphy will be among Republicans Ron Mennell, William Wetzel and James Partridge vying for four available trustee seats. In Johnstown Township, Democrat Robin Johnson will also be seeking one of two available trustee positions against Republicans Karen Doster and Jeffery Warren. In Orangeville Township, Democrat George Williston will face Republican Thomas Rook for the supervisor’s position and, in Yankee Springs, Democrat Shanon VandenBerg will vie for one of two available trustee seats against Republicans Mary L. Cook and Bruce W. Campbell. Five other Democrats, who were unopposed in the Democratic primary in other township races, will face no Republican opposition in November and were correctly identified in the Aug. 9 Banner as having secured the positions for which they ran. The Banner regrets any confusion that this inadvertent omission may have caused. J-Ad Graphics Inc. Middleville village incumbents are unopposed Five incumbents will run unopposed in the November election for Middleville Village Council seats. According to the Thornapple Township clerk’s office, five incumbents have filed for the same positions on the village council. Charles Pullen has filed to retain his seat as village president for two years. The trustee terms are four years. Incumbents filing include Shannon Endsley, Michael Lytle, Phillip VanNoord and Ed Schellinger. No challengers in Nashville The Nashville Village Council has three four-year trustee positions to be filled on the November ballot. Three incumbents will be unopposed for the terms: Johnny Hartwell, Terry Zoerman and Marcia Scramlin. Scramlin was recently appointed to fill the position held by her brother-in-law Rod Scramlin, who resigned. The deadline to file was Tuesday, Aug. 14. At left: The Sherwood Challenge is a mainstay at archery meets. With a point system and elimination by fatal shot, archers are first asked to shoot at targets, including a pirate, cannibal, pirate and captain’s daughter and a cabin boy with an apple on his head. Elimination occurs when the woman or boy are hit. Here, the shooters did well by only hitting only the pirate and not the smiling maiden. Orangeville Township Board hires speaker on fracking During the meeting, one of the most well attended board meetings in recent memory, speaker after speaker stood to express concerns about the danger posed to Fish Lake by the number of leases sold by the state at a May 8 auction. Among concerns expressed was the need for baseline testing of wells, lakes, streams, and air quality before any fracking begins. Cindy Dill, reporting on a recent trip to two sites in Kalkaska, stressed the need for individuals to establish baseline health for themselves and their families, especially children. She noted, as did fellow resident George Williston, that without the baseline testing prior to the onset of any health problem after fracking begins, there is no way to determine liability. Trustee Robert Perino reported on a phone call he had received from a property owner who would like to lease his property to be able to derive a retirement income. The issue as related by the caller to Perino is who represents him? Perino, who says he is personally opposed to fracking, also said that as a board member, he has to represent every resident. The discussion also revealed a desire of residents in the audience to continue signing petitions in response to a reported exchange with Rep. Mike Callton, who told an inquirer he had done a survey and so far 48 percent of those he had surveyed were opposed to fracking. He is also reported to have said that when the number gets to 51 percent, he will introduce legislation to ban fracking. The suggestion was made that the groups opposed to fracking should have a table at the Orangeville Days festival this weekend. Mark Paradowski, an organizer of the event, encouraged any group with fracking petitions to participate in the event. 06788612 by Fran Faverman Staff Writer A lengthy public comment period at the rescheduled Orangeville Township Board of Trustees meeting Tuesday evening culminated in a decision by the board to hire James Olson, an attorney from Traverse City and an expert on environmental law related to water issues, to give a public presentation on the fracking process. Following an extensive discussion of the alternative employment options presented by Olson in response to an email inquiry from Township Clerk Jennifer Goy, the board voted unanimously to hire Olson for a presentation to the board at a public meeting at a cost of $1,200 plus expenses. Supervisor Tom Rook said he hopes the meeting can be held in September and will call a special board meeting to accommodate the event should a September date be available for Olson. �Page 4 — Thursday, August 16, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Stylized cedar A good education is hard to measure This uniquely twisted cedar tree at the east end of Lakeside Cemetery in Lake Odessa is half as tall as neighboring cedars. But what it lacks in stature, it makes up for in style. It’s about 48 inches around at the base, where the twisting starts and continues all the way up the branches. One theory of how it became twisted is that it’s at the end of a row, but none of the other end trees have the twisted bark. Anyone with information on what may have caused this twisting may email news@j-adgraphics.com. We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Do you know? Do you recognize this photo, which looks to be from the late 1800s, or any of the men in it? The image is much older than the mid-20th century photos in the Banner files that have appeared in this section. The photo was provided by Tom Niethamer. Two people identified on the left side of the photo are Lawrence Halbert and Roy Rowlader. Those two names are written on the back of the photo. Are they a dance troupe? Gymnasts? A basketball team? Actors? What can you tell us about this photograph? In last week’s photo, several readers recognized Hastings Fire Chief Ernest Hayes and his son Royal “Toot” Hayes. The Aug. 2 photo of several children on bikes was recognized by Mary Jane Haner as one of the bike safety parades organized by the YMCA. Since she spotted herself in the photo, wearing a white dressed she had worn previously as a flowergirl in her cousin’s wedding, she surmised the photo was taken in 1947 or 1948. She also recognized her sister, Shirley (Miller) Sisson Howell, who had won a bike that day, Rev. Don Gury from the Episcopal church, and Have you Glenn Pierson, the policeman in the photo. Jan Atanay said the photo brought back memories of what were called “On Wheels” parades. The group pedaled bicycles down main street to Tyden Park where they received prizes and treats. Her brother, Jack Kelley, won a prize for the smallest thing on wheels. He pulled a tiny toy car on a string all the way down main street to the park. “Aaaah, those were the good old days,” said Atanay. met? Nick Wieringa isn’t the kind of retiree who sits around home watching television or trying to decide what he should do for the day. At 63, he can usually be found out working in his barn, cutting wood or working in the yard. He also works part-time at Otto’s turkey farm in Middleville and makes plenty of time to spend with family and friends. The son of Ed and Kate Wieringa, Nick is one of nine children who grew up on a dairy farm and spent many years working on the farm. He and his wife, Nancy, have been married 40 years and have three daughters and three grandchildren. They all live nearby, as do all of Nick’s siblings and his mother. His father died a year ago. Nick never went far from home, living less than a mile from the family homestead on Jackson Road just west of Middleville. He retired from General Motors and said even though he’s seen a lot of interesting places in the world, he loves his home in Barry County. “Family is important. When we all get together it’s a big group and it’s a lot of fun,” he said. Growing up, Nick was involved in 4-H and showed sheep all over the state. He still loves being part of the county fair now. He’s served as the sheep superintendent, swine superintendent and livestock sale superintendent for the Barry County Fair. He was one of the people instrumental in bringing the Miracle of Birth tent to the fair the past five years. “My parents taught me about giving back whenever we can. And I guess that’s why I’m still with 4-H. It was really good to me, and I want to see other kids have the same opportunities,” he said. Person you would you most like to meet, living or dead: “My dad. I know there are a lot of great heroes, but none better than my dad. Just to see him again for a day would be the best.” Favorite book: I’ve never read a complete book in my life. I just don’t have the patience to sit down and read a whole book. The education experts are at it again. Recently, the Michigan Department of Education released its 2011-12 top-to-bottom ranking for all Michigan schools. It seems every year or so we get a new set of guidelines with hopes to increase student achievement to make Michigan schools more competitive in an ever-changing marketplace. We’ve had Blue Ribbon Schools, Red Ribbon Schools, Race to the Top, good schools and bad and we still have to deal with the federal government’s mandate that no child be left behind, which established unending benchmarks to measure student, teacher and school achievement. But does it all really work? Under new guidelines set by the Michigan Department of Education, schools will now fall into one of three categories, from the highest to lowest in achievement: Reward Schools, Focus Schools and Priority Schools. Reward Schools include the top 5 percent of schools on the annual Top-toBottom ranking of all Michigan schools that have made the greatest academic progress over the previous four years. The 286 Reward Schools are located in 178 different school districts across the state. Schools that will be identified later this fall as “beating the odds” schools will also be considered Reward Schools. Priority Schools are those in the bottom 5 percent of the ranking system, which includes any high school with a graduation rate of less than 60 percent for three consecutive years. As required under state law, Secretary of Education Mike Flanagan will place Priority Schools under the authority of the State School Reform Office, which will require those schools to implement an intervention plan to improve student achievement. Focus Schools account for 358 schools in 176 different school districts across the state. They are the 10 percent of schools that have the widest gaps. That list includes some high-achieving schools that normally would not be expected to have low-achieving students, but provides a focus on the struggling students within the local system. The schools that need to improve their student learning skills include the 146 Priority Schools, along with the 358 Focus Schools. Why does it have to be so complicated? In Barry County, Lakewood was the only school district in the area to receive a Reward Schools designation. The high school was listed in the top 5 percent of schools making the greatest academic progress over the previous four years. The designation is due to higher scores on the ACT exam given to juniors. “The increase in student achievement is a credit, not only to the high school staff, but the entire teaching staff at Lakewood Public Schools,” said Lakewood Superintendent Mike O’Mara. O’Mara attributed the high school staff’s dedication to its implementation of the Michigan Merit Curriculum. But are the new categories just another way for Michigan’s public schools to meet the provisions of the federal government’s No Child Left Behind Act? Are we missing the point by reducing the educational system to simple numbers rather than what students are actually learning? And should we accept the fact that a child’s education can be reduced to a mathematical system of facts and figures? My concern is that, in the effort to push students to attain grade-level reading skills, for instance, are we forgetting the importance of teaching them how to understand what they’re reading? It makes sense for government officials to focus on new ways to increase funding for public schools, but to suggest that “Schools continue to treat students as empty glasses into which information can be poured and public officials continue to judge schools on the basis of how efficiently and determinedly they pour.” Scientist Lauren Resnick another simple measurement system will solve the education crisis is ridiculous. In reality, we need a system that has more to do with individual achievement than a measurement derived from a mathematical equation. Districts need to put more of the emphasis on student and parental accountability. We need to make sure all students have the necessary critical thinking skills to compete in a growing marketplace. “Schools continue to treat students as empty glasses into which information can be poured,” said scientist Lauren Resnick in a recent report, “and public officials continue to judge schools on the basis of how efficiently and determinedly they pour.” There are plenty of experts, yet we seem to be stuck in a system reduced to numbers and graphs, while countries around the world outpace us in educating their students. “China understands better than the U.S. that higher education is the platform from which to build a sound economy via a skilled workforce,” said John Naisbitt, author of Megatrends. “We do not help ourselves by blaming them for being right.” If we expect to compete in this global economy, then politicians must stop placing the blame on the system by reminding us what we’re up against — in the new war on jobs. How we focus on jobs and the economy in the coming years will determine what kind of nation we will be in the next century. “What we lack is not knowledge,” said one economist, “but adequate national leadership and the will to act on what we know.” As we begin another school year, are state officials just looking for another scheme of numbers and graphs to justify their jobs, or are they focusing on what really needs to be done? Gov. Rick Snyder said his philosophy for expanding enrollment options for students across the state is “anytime, any place, anywhere, any pace.” The solution to the education crisis is not likely to be found in tests and measurements. It’s all about what’s happening in the classrooms. Students need more options — better programs and a strong climate of professionalism that is lacking in many of our institutions today. In Maple Valley, teachers have volunteered to have their planning time outside the normal school day. This will allow smaller class sizes and more electives such as music, art and physical education to enhance the students’ educational opportunity. In many larger cities around the state, districts are facing serious problems that won’t be solved with a few new categories — it going to take a new direction, like that shown in Maple Valley, with new ideas and openness to what works best for students to compete in the 21st century. As we look for solutions, officials should be ready, anytime, anywhere, any place — to promote a better education for the future of our kids. Fred Jacobs, vice president, J-Ad Graphics Nick Wieringa lives less than a mile from the farm where he grew up, being taught to give back whenever possible. I feel like I need to be up and doing something. Favorite time of year: Spring — when the snow and cold leaves. We go out and make farm visits, looking for good livestock. Favorite television show: MASH. I was in the infantry in Vietnam, and MASH just shows how they made the best of a bad situation. Worst summer job: Picking strawberries fro 6 cents a quart. It was tough. Best vacation trip: I went to visit a hog breeder in Iowa with some friends. It was a good trip, and we still talking about how much fun we had. Super power you would like to have: I guess just the power to get more people involved in 4-H. If they could realize how much work and effort it takes to put on a fair. It would be great to have more people involved. And we need to support the people who support the fair. Best advice you ever gave: Be yourself — no false fronts. Best thing about living in Barry County: Definitely the people. We’ve got some real good neighbors out here that are just the best people ever. I can’t think of anything better than that. Best advice ever received: I received a lot from my mom and dad, but probably the best one is what my dad always told me, “Respect people and leave things in better shape than you found them.” I’ve always tried to do that. Each week, The Banner profiles a person who makes Barry County shine. We’ll provide a quick peek each week at some of Barry County’s stars. Do you know someone who should be featured? Send information to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@jadgraphics.com. What do you think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website, www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. Last week’s question: The Michigan Supreme Court ruled this week to place the state’s controversial financial emergency manager law for troubled municipalities and school districts on the Nov. 6 ballot. How will you vote? 81% 19% Yes No For this week: The recent Olympics television coverage seemed divided between competition and background feature stories. Which would you rather have seen more of? q More athletic competition q More background feature stories �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 16, 2012 — Page 5 IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV Time to lay off the bottle What consumer beverage outsells milk, beer and soda, costs more than a gallon of gasoline, and is now being banned from sale in some U.S. National Parks? If your answer was bottled water, give yourself a prize. And for many good reasons, it’s time to lay off the bottle. First off, what marketers claim is pristine and healthy is not what it seems. Nearly half of all bottled water is filtered tap water. This includes Coke’s Dasani and Pepsi’s Aquafina. Both are 100 percent “pristine” municipal tap water. These companies bottle taxpayer-supported, low-cost city water and sell it back to consumers at huge profits. Others, like Nestle’s Poland Spring and Deer Park, bottle spring water cheaply sucked from small-town aquifers across America, sparking outrage and legal battles over corporate theft of public municipal water rights. Studies reveal that your water at home is likely just as pure, clean and healthy (and significantly less expensive) than bottled water. The industry is largely self-regulating, with the FDA exercising minimal oversight over bottled water quality and safety. Unfortunately, advertising trumps truth: bottled water sales set an all-time record in 2011. We bought 9.1 billion gallons of the stuff. What began as Perrier’s niche market in the 1970s, is now a moneymaking behemoth and environmental catastrophe. Of the 80 million disposable water bottles emptied every day, only about 20 percent get recycled; the rest end up in the waste stream (bad) or as litter (worse). Many tossed bottles find their way to the Pacific Ocean’s floating plastic “Garbage Island.” When you consider that all those bottles are made from crude oil, then the Pacific’s watery trash heap — bigger than People first, not animals To the editor: Last week’s Banner featured a lengthy letter from the Barry County Humane Society, boasting about the time, money and wonderful things they did and do for us and stray, sick and unwanted animals. While thousands of people are homeless and tens of thousands die each year from starvation, this group of animal lovers wants our tax dollars to save and rescue animals. People living in these countries have no trouble with stray dogs or cats; they eat them. Wouldn’t you if you went a few weeks without food? Here’s an idea: why don’t the humane society member sell their homes, buy tents to live in, and use the leftover money to pay for saving all these animals? They would be living better than the homeless and hungry people living under highway overpasses or cardboard boxes, and our tax dollars could go to help them. Martin Preston, Hastings Product could be applied to position To the editor: Following the Aug. 7 primary election, a local television station showed U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow standing in front of a sign, commenting on one of the primary election races. The sign said, “USDA certified bio-source renewable,” but the junior U.S. senator from Michigan obstructed the view of the name of the agricultural product. Inasmuch as a U.S. senator from Michigan was in the TV image, all I could think of was a “bio-source renewable” that one would find in an agricultural implement called a spreader. Now that the primary election is over and we know who the Republican candidate for U.S. senator is, I could substitute the senior senator or the junior senator’s general election opponent in the TV image, and still see the same agricultural implement, filled with the “USDA certified bio-source renewable” I perceived the first time. In the words of Rush Limbaugh (in a different context, fortunately), “It is what it is.” Frederick G. Schantz, Hastings Call 945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads Texas — becomes the world’s largest oil spill. What’s a thirsty American to do? The same thing hikers, bicyclists and birders have been doing for decades — carry a reusable water bottle. Reusable bottles annihilate the argument that plastic bottles are a more convenient way of getting your recommended eight glasses of liquid refreshment daily. If the quality of your home tap water is questionable, try a range of filtering options from filtering pitchers to faucet-mounted models or whole-house systems. All ensure quality drinking water. Consumer demand propelled the rise of bottled water. Declining demand will be its demise. Are we so blind, so easily fooled, so lazy? Are we so eager to spend our money and scarce resources? This one seems like a no-brainer. Simple economics, better health and environmental well-being all demand that it’s time we lay off the bottle. Jeff Feldman, Shepherdstown, W.V. State News Roundup Michigan health director steps down; former director appointed Gov. Rick Snyder Wednesday accepted the resignation of Department of Community Health Director Olga Dazzo, who has decided to return to the private sector. The governor named former Director James K. Haveman Jr. to lead the agency. Dazzo was appointed by Snyder in December 2010. “Olga is a dedicated health professional whose contributions to Michigan residents are very much appreciated,” Snyder said. “I respect her desire to return to the private sector where she wants to more directly work with the health care system to bring about positive change. I wish her the best. Olga’s focus on reducing the obesity and infant mortality rates in our state demonstrates her unwavering commitment to health and wellness.” In appointing Haveman to serve as director of DCH, Snyder said, “We have an ambitious health and wellness agenda that is vital to Michigan’s economic future and overall qual- Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov ity of life, and we’re fortunate that former DCH Director Jim Haveman has agreed to return to state service and drive that agenda forward. Jim is an experienced leader and a recognized innovator. His appointment demonstrates our commitment to maintaining health and wellness as a top priority.” Haveman, of Grand Rapids, served as DCH director from 1996 to 2003 and department of mental health director from 1991 to 1996. In 2003, Haveman was appointed by the White House as the coalition provisional authority senior advisor to the Iraqi Ministry of Health. His efforts focused on helping a free Iraq to build a sustainable and equitable health care system. A social worker by training, Haveman is a 1966 graduate of Calvin College. He earned his master’s degree in social work from Michigan State University. He has resigned his seat on the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan Board of Directors, effective Aug. 17. Haveman’s appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate, and he is scheduled to begin as director Sept. 1. Director Dazzo will continue in a transition role over the next couple of months. West Nile virus found in Montcalm County horse Officials with the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and Michigan State University Diagnostic Center for Population and Animal Health confirmed the first West Nile case of the year in an unvaccinated Montcalm County horse due to West Nile virus infection. The 5-year-old Standardbred gelding developed sudden lack of coordination in the hind limbs and is currently undergoing treatment — in the form of supportive care — for West Nile virus. To the residents of the 7th District, I want to Thank each and every one of you for all of your faith and support over the past 6 years when my term as your county commissioner expires December 31, 2012. The primary elections held August 7 was decided by 1.5% of the registered voters of the newly formed 7th District. Barely 1/5 of the electorate voted. This highlights the constantly moving target of what constitutes a majority and promotes a democracy. As we begin the peaceful transition of government it is important to me to be helpful in any way that I can and with all of the transparency needed. It is a privilege to have served all of you in the matters of Barry County. I believe in the silent majority and share much of their beliefs of what is best and their fundamental interpretation of what is right and wrong. This is what motivates me to represent you. The transparency of government needs to remain a constant. The press and media need to have expanded reporting to the new players and what they are offering up Election Day. Jeff VanNortwick 7th District Barry County Board of Commissioners The Hastings U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. 77569443 Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. “WNV is spread from wild birds to humans, horses, and in some cases pets, through infected mosquitoes and causes encephalitis, or inflammation of the brain,” said State Veterinarian Dr. Steven Halstead. “Signs of WNV may include stumbling, limb weakness, facial paralysis, difficulty urinating and defecating, fever, blindness, seizures and struggling to get up. There is no specific treatment for WNV encephalitis, but supportive care can help horses survive until their natural defenses eliminate the virus.” “Licensed West Nile virus vaccines for horses are available, and owners are encouraged to vaccinate yearly, in consultation with private veterinary practitioners,” said Dr. Halstead. “Horse owners should take measures to reduce the risk of mosquito exposure to themselves and their horses.” The mosquitoes most likely to transmit WNV to humans lay eggs in small pools of standing water. Adult mosquitoes can hatch in 10 days in the warmest months of the summer. Mosquitoes become infected and transmit WNV after feeding on birds carrying the virus. Within 10 to 14 days, the mosquito can transmit the virus to humans and horses. Since West Nile virus is spread to horses through the bite of infected mosquitoes, protection measures that reduce the exposure to mosquito bites should be adopted. Horse owners should follow these tips to prevent mosquito-borne illness: • Vaccinate. Inexpensive vaccines for WNV are readily available. It is not too late to vaccinate horses this season. Talk to a veterinarian for details. • Use approved insect repellents to protect horses. • If possible, put horses in stables, stalls or barns, preferably under fans, during the prime mosquito exposure hours of dusk and dawn. • Eliminate standing water, and drain troughs and buckets at least once a week. For more information about West Nile virus, visit www.michigan.gov/emergingdiseases or www.animalhealth.msu.edu. President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Bonnie Mattson • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 �Page 6 — Thursday, August 16, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Partnership bringing training to the public Leadership Barry County and the Barry Community Foundation are now partners with Kellogg Community College to bring special training opportunities to the public. Wednesday, Sept. 26, grant writing training will be available at the Barry Community Enrichment Center from 1 to 3 p.m. KCC staff reports that basic grant proposals is one of the college’s most popular classes. The training will focus on how to develop a grant proposal to apply for funding. Jennifer Richards, vice president of the Worship Together… 77570094 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Rev. Ryan Wieland. Sundays - 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Service; Sunday School and Nursery available during both services (Summer Schedule - Adult Sunday School: 9 a.m., Worship & Children’s Programs 10 a.m.) Youth Group, Covenant Prayer, Choir, Chimes, Praise Band, Quilting Group, Community Breakfasts and more! Call the church office at (269) 721-8077 (M/W/F 9 a.m.-12 p.m.), e-mail office@mei.net or visit www.countrychapelumc.org <http://www.countrychapelumc.org/> for more information SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 8:45 a.m. Traditional Worship; 10 a.m. Refreshments; 10:45 a.m. Contemporary Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Youth Pastor, Eric Gillespie. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. for children and youth, and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Junior & Senior High Youth Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Mid-Week Pioneers and adult classes return in September. Thursday: Senior Adult Bible Study at 10 a.m. and lunch at Wendy’s, 11:30 a.m. Vacation Bible School: Wed. & Thurs., July 25 & 26, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Sunday, August 19 - Worship Service 8 and 10 a.m. August 19 Blessing of the Backpacks; Men’s Alcoholics Anonymous 7 p.m. August 20 - Spiritual Alcoholics Anonymous 7:30 p.m. August 21 Fellowship Barbeque 5:30-7:30 p.m.; Congregation Council 7 p.m. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 945-2645, fax 269945-2698. Pastor Amy Luckey. http://www.discover-grace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot.com. Friday - 9 a.m. Golfer’s Group Meets; 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday - 4 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 . This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Lauer Family Funeral Homes 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings Fiberglass Products 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 Barry Community Foundation, said the training was scheduled to help area nonprofit groups to apply for grants from the Barry Community Foundation before the Oct. 15 deadline. Thursday, Oct. 25, grant seeking training will be offered at the Barry Community Enrichment Center. This training will give participants an overview of the Foundation Center Database to find potential funding sources outside of Barry County. Participants will learn how to search the more than 90,000 potential funders nationwide to locate resources for local organizations. Information on local funding sources also will be available. The final training, to be offered Wednesday, Dec. 5, from 1 to 3 p.m., will be on basic board training. Participants will learn the basic roles and responsibilities of nonprofit boards and committees, as well as legal aspects of board service, and be given tips and best practices of highly effective boards. Participants will also be able to share their personal experiences and enhance the group learning. The cost for each class is $10 per person. Anyone interested in attending these training sessions should call Kellogg Community College at 269-965-4134 for registration information. Annual Day of Caring set for Sept. 15 in Barry County Sign-up now underway Last year, more than 470 volunteers completed 1,880 hours of volunteer service during the Barry County United Way and Volunteer Center’s annual Day of Caring, according to volunteer center director Morgan Johnson. She’s inviting Barry County residents to join together Thursday, Sept. 13, and Saturday, Sept. 15, to make this year’s Day of Caring even bigger. “In a show of support for our community, teams of employees from companies across Barry County will report to work at area project locations,” said Johnson. “This is your opportunity to demonstrate your commitment to service and strengthen our community through volunteerism,” said Johnson. “This is a great chance for the community to give back, as well as connect with local organizations.” Day of Caring will begin Sept. 13, immediately following the Barry County United Way kickoff celebration. Two shifts are available Thursday — morning (9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.) and afternoon (1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.) — and morning shift only Saturday, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Volunteers can choose from a variety of projects, which can be viewed on the Barry County United Way’s website, www.bcunitedway.org. Volunteers are invited to browse the available projects then prioritize preferences on the commitment response form which can also be found on the website. “Without volunteers, many of the programs and services offered to the residents of Barry County would not continue,” said Johnson. “In the past year alone, almost 2,000 volunteers donated their time throughout Barry County. According to the Independent Sector, one hour of volunteer service equals $21.36. That means that in 2011, Barry County residents donated over $47,000 to our community through volunteerism. The Barry County United Way and Volunteer Center plays an important role in encouraging, promoting and providing the connecting link for individuals who desire to engage in volunteerism in our community.” Any business, ministry or community group that would like to be involved may appoint a committee or chair to coordinate Day of Caring; recruit volunteers; return the commitment response form by fax, mail or online and T-shirt order form by Friday, Aug. 24; report to work Sept. 13, and/or Sept. 15. For more information on Day of Caring or volunteering, call Johnson, 269-945-4010. HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, Aug. 16 — Movie Memories presents “The Egg and I” with Fred McMurray and Claudette Colbert, 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 17 — no preschool story time. Tuesday, Aug. 21 — no toddler story time in August; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30; open chess club, 6 to 8 p.m. Call the Hastings Public Library for more information, 269-945-4263. Area Obituaries Patty A. Payne CLOVERDALE, MI - Patty A. Payne, age 78, of Cloverdale, passed away Sunday, August 12, 2012. She was born July 25, 1934 in Niles, the daughter of Harold and Alta Gould and attended Delton Kellogg Schools. She married Merle Robert Payne June 24, 1961 and he preceded her in death. They resided in Cloverdale and together, they raised 11 children and were foster parents for 35 years. Patty enjoyed crocheting, flowers, sewing, dancing, cooking and spending time with family. She was a homemaker for several years. She was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Alta Gould; sisters, Donna Born, and Jean Durkee; son-in-law, Jerry Daniels. Patty is survived by her children and their spouses, Don and Rita Smith, Denise Daniels, Dennis Smith, Darlene and Jim Cowham, Douglas Smith, Deanna and Ron Daniels, Dan and Melanie Payne, Mandy Payne, Kay Payne, Albert Payne, Justin and Colleen Payne; Charles and Dorothy Deschner; 33 foster children; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and a host of friends. Respecting her wishes cremation has taken place and a celebration of life memorial service will be held Saturday, August 18, 2012 at 2 p.m. at Pleasantview Family Church in Lacy with Pastor Steve Olmstead officiating. A luncheon will follow services. In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make memorial contributions directed to Patty Payne, P.O. Box 463, Delton, MI 49046, to assist the family in final expenses. Lauer Family Funeral Homes-Wren Chapel, 1401 N. Broadway in Hastings, has assisted the family with arrangements. Please share a memory or leave condolences to the family at www.lauerfh.com. FAMILY FUNERAL HOMES Robert Haywood HASTINGS, MI - Robert Haywood, age 73, a lifelong resident of Hastings passed away August 6, 2012 after hospitalization in Hastings and Grand Rapids and acute care in Plainwell. The youngest son of Ray and Meta Haywood, he was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Marilyn; and his brother, Don. He is survived by his stepchildren; sisters, Rose McMellen and Marieta (Ritas) Walter; brother, Gene and special friend Mable Denniston. Robert served in the U.S. Army, he was stationed in Germany. Robert worked as a foreman at Hastings Manufacturing. He always had a passion for helping out at the family farm. He loved watching sports and fishing. A graveside ceremony will be held at East Hickory Corners Cemetery, Hickory Road, Saturday, August 18, 2012 at 11 a.m. A luncheon will follow at noon at Hope Township Hall. You may leave a message or memory to the family.www.girrbachfuneralhome.net. Arrangements are by the Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. Charles R. Corson MIDDLEVILLE, MI - Charles R. Corson, of Middleville, passed away August 7, 2012. Charles was born January 7, 1921 in Middleville. Charles was a lifelong resident of Middleville, and a WWII Veteran and took part in the invasion of Anzio in Italy. He was a loyal employee of Bradford White for 38 years, and enjoyed animals and cars. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Dorothy (Freshney) Corson; his daughters, Annette (Renwick) Brutus and Maureen (Patrick Brutus) Corson; a granddaughter, Jacqueline Brutus. Charles was preceded in death by nine siblings. Charles' family received friends Monday, August 13, 2012, at the Beeler-Gores Funeral Home, Middleville, where a funeral service was conducted, with Pastor Tony Shumaker officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to the Barry County Humane Society or to the Veteran's of Foreign Wars. Please visit www.beelergoresfuneral.com to view Charles's online guest book or to leave a condolence message for the family. Sunfield to hold annual school reunion Aug. 19 Memories will flood the evening’s festivities as Sunfield School celebrates its alumni, including the 50th anniversary of the class of 1962. The celebration will begin at 1 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 19, at Sunfield United Brethren Church, west of Sunfield. Meat, rolls and beverage will be furnished, according to organizer Joann Roth. Attendees are asked to bring a dish to pass and their own table service. “Bring your memories, photos, graduation announcements, etc., to share with your class- mates,” said Roth. Class of 1963 graduate Celia (Meade) DeMond said she is looking forward to the reunion. “We had 27 in our class,” said DeMond. “We wanted to graduate from our school — Sunfield, even though we were part of Lakewood by then. All our schooling was in Sunfield, so we opted to graduate from there.” For more information, email Roth, joannkay.roth@gmail.com, or Jan Webster, janweb44@yahoo.com. See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 16, 2012 — Page 7 SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN Social Security and women by Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Aug. 26 is Women’s Equality Day. On that date in 1920, the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was signed, giving women the right to vote. Social Security treats men and women equally. Men and women with identical earnings histories are treated exactly the same. However, there are things women in particular should know about Social Security. Although treated equally by Social Security, there are trends and differences in lifestyle that can affect benefits. For example, women tend to care for many people: spouses, children and parents. Taking time away from the workplace to care for a newborn child or aging parent can have an impact on future Social Security benefits. Despite significant strides through the years, women are more likely to earn less over a lifetime than men. Women are less often covered by private retirement plans and they are more dependent on Social Security in their retirement years. Women tend to live about five years longer than men, which means more years of depending on Social Security and other retirement income or savings. If a woman is married to a man who earns significantly more than she does, it is likely she will qualify for a larger benefit amount on his record than on her own. Want to learn more? Visit our women’s page at www.socialsecurity.gov/women. Follow the link on that page to our publication, “What Every Woman Should Know.” You can read it online, print a copy, or listen to it on audio. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY Marriage Licenses Newborn Babies Morgan Elizabeth Clara, born at Pennock Hospital on July 26, 2012 at 8:01 a.m. to Samantha and Bradley Harton of Hastings. Weighing 8 lbs. 9 ozs. and 21 inches long. ***** Ava Skye, born at Pennock Hospital on July 31, 2012 at 6:03 p.m. to Jessica Hendershot and Gregory Roath of Hastings. Weighing 8 lbs. 15 ozs. and 21 inches long. ***** Tayden William, born at Pennock Hospital on July 27, 2012 at 2:52 p.m. to Brittney Watson and Tyler Taylor of Portland. Weighing 8 lbs. 6 ozs. and 21 inches long. ***** Ryider Lee, born at Pennock Hospital on July 31, 2012 at 3:44 a.m. to Pam and Chad Thurber of Dowling. Weighing 7 lbs. 3 ozs. and 19 inches long. ***** Rylynn Mae, born at Pennock Hospital on July 30, 2012 at 7:18 p.m. to Natasha Watkins and Ryan Corey of Hastings. Weighing 6 lbs. 2 ozs. and 18 inches long. ***** Sophia Michelle, born at Pennock Hospital on Aug. 3, 2012 at 12:46 p.m. to Mikayla Hackler and Ryan Hoeberling of Delton. Weighing 6 lbs. 15 ozs. and 19 inches long. ***** Conner Joseph, born at Pennock Hospital on Aug. 2, 2012 at 6:28 p.m. to Mark Salski and Courtney Howard of Nashville. Weighing 6 lbs. 2 ozs. and 19 inches long. ***** Bentley Joshua, born at Pennock Hospital on Aug. 2, 2012 at 4:53 p.m. to Heather Foote and Justin Holtman of Hastings. Weighing 8 lbs. 1 1/2 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Parker Joe Haveman, born at Clark Regional Hospital in Winchester, Kentucky on June 29, 2012 at 9:51 p.m. to Erik and Dawn Haveman of Mt. Sterling, Kentucky, formerly of Middleville. Weighing 8 lbs. and 20 inches. ***** Hunter Jay, born at Pennock Hospital on Aug. 7, 2012 at 7:57 a.m. to Elizabeth Wilkins and Jeffery Bierens of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 15 1/2 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Kinnley K, born at Pennock Hospital on Aug. 6, 2012 at 9:45 p.m. to Koty and Laci Watson of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 11 ozs. and 19 1/2 inches long. ***** Braiden Avery, born at Pennock Hospital on Aug. 7, 2012 at 1:52 p.m. to Rolf and Amber DePyper of Nashville. Weighing 8 lbs. 0 ozs. and 18 1/2 inches long. ***** Shelby M., born at Pennock Hospital on Aug. 6, 2012 at 12:46 a.m. to David and Trisha Baker of Delton. Weighing 6 lbs. 13 ozs. and 10 1/2 inches long. ***** Lena Lynn, born at Pennock Hospital on June 29, 2012 at 6:29 p.m. to Sarah and Travis Roberts of Hastings. Weighing 8 lbs. 3 ozs. and 20 inches long. Jeremiah Nicholas Griffin, Nashville and Kourtney Lynn Parker, Hastings. Joel Scott Boomsma, Wayland and Dawn Marie Meyering, Middleville. Daniel Aubrey Flory, Catlett, VA and Kristi Mae Carter, Catlett, VA. Adam Scott Dill, Wayland and Jennifer Sue Holden, Wayland. Eric Steven Webster, Grand Rapids and Elizabeth Ann Gass, Middleville. Jeffrey Wayne Loew, Hastings and Dollie Jean Gilbert, Hastings. Daniel John Hayward, Oxford and Emily Mayo Benningfield, Hastings. Glen Harrison Walkinshaw-Shinn, Middleville and Joleen Mavis Rasnake, Middleville. Andrew Christopher Copelin, Woodland and Lindzy Kay Curry, Woodland. Patrick John Camling, Middleville and Cynthia Lynne Snowden, Wayland. Howard Lester Hobert III, Delton and Heather Lynn Force, Delton. Brandon Scott Mingerink, Byron Center and Kallie Mae Sikkema, Middleville. Call 945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads by Gerald Stein OPTIMAL MEDICAL STAFFING NORTH LOST Current Openings WEST N: 9 8 5 4 3 M: 7 4 L: K 7 3 2 K: 5 2 RN/LPN PRIVATE DUTY EAST N: J 7 6 M: 9 6 3 2 L: 10 4 K: K J 10 9 SOUTH: 8 Month Old Male Pitbull Nashville/Marshall/Springport/Jackson /À>V…É6i˜ÌÊ Ý«iÀˆi˜ViÊ*ÀiviÀÀi`ÊUÊ�/É*/ÊqÊ ���/-É`>Þà Gray with white socks. Lost August 1 on Woodland Road, Nashville. EXPERIENCED HHAs/CNAs >Ì̏iÊ ÀiiŽ]Ê�>>“>✜]Ê�>VŽÃœ˜Ê>Ài>ÃÊ­ˆ˜VÕ`ˆ˜}Ê�Lˆœ˜]Ê�œ“iÀ]Ê /…ÀiiÊ,ˆÛiÀÃ]Ê�>iÃLÕÀ}®ÊUÊ�/É*/ÊqÊ`>ÞÃɘˆ}…Ìà 07606302 N: A 10 M: Q 8 5 L: A J 9 6 5 K: A Q 8 Please send letter or resume to: recruiter@optimalstaffing.com or fax to 517-394-7716 N: K Q 2 M: A K J 10 L: Q 8 K: 7 6 4 3 REWARD IF RETURNED 517-213-9697 269-967-8241 Dealer: South 77568328 Vulnerable: None Lead: 2L Licensed / Insured / Local 6NT Pass South 1NT Pass West Pass Pass Today’s column continues to look at demystifying some bridge players’ fears of playing no trump contacts. In today’s hand, South opened a standard 1 NT bid with 15 high card points, three suits stopped, and a balanced hand. Those players who bid 1 NT openings with 16-18 high card points might have missed the information-sharing that this one no trump bidder gave to his partner. In this case, North, South’s partner, knew exactly the shape and the number of points in South’s hand, and North bid directly to six no trump. Playing one no trump contracts or playing six no trump contracts, the steps are still the same: take a moment to pause, thank your partner, and make your plan. Your objective is straightforward. Take all the tricks except one. Take your twelve tricks, and you will have bid and made a small slam. Can you do it? First, as we did last week, count up the winners you have in both hands. In no trump contracts, that is always the procedure. In trump contracts, you count your losers, but that is another story. How many winners do you have without giving up the lead? In spades, you have three winners, the Ace, the King, and the Queen. In hearts, you have four winners: the Ace, the King, the Queen, and the Jack. In diamonds, you have one winner: the Ace. In clubs, you have one winner the Ace. You have only nine sure winners. How will you win three more tricks to make your small slam? Here is where the second part of your plan comes into action. The lead is the 2L, most likely the fourth down from the longest and strongest suit by West. The lead of the two suggests that West has only four diamonds, and the King of Diamonds is probably in the West hand. Knowing that bit of information helps you decide that extra tricks can come from the diamond suit. Will it be enough, or do you need another trick in clubs? If so, a finesse might be necessary to win an extra trick in clubs. This should be a last resort, however, since finesses win only 50% of the time. With your plan firmly in your mind, you prepare to take your tricks. The lead of the 2Lis helpful to you, and you play low from the dummy (second hand low), and East plays the 10L, and your QL wins the first trick. The 8L is led from your hand in an effort to drive out the KL, but West ducks the trick smoothly and in tempo, refusing to admit he has the KL. This is an excellent defensive strategy to hold up at times to make it difficult for the declarer to set up a long suit, in this case diamonds. South abandons the diamonds for now, and then leads the 10M to the QM in the dummy. Leading the AL next and discarding a small club from his hand reduces the diamonds to only the KL in the West hand. Here is the next important strategy. Lead a diamond, any diamond, and give up the diamond to the KL. You have kept your winners so that no matter what the lead is, you will have a stopper to use the remaining diamond winner. Back came the 5K from West, and you dare not take the finesse. You need to put up the Ace to avoid losing a finesse to the KK in the East hand. You take your winning diamond winner, and you take three spades tricks and three more heart tricks to make your contract of six no trump. All in all, you have taken four diamond tricks, four heart tricks, three spade tricks, and one club trick. Your plan has been successful. You knew your objective; you counted your winners, and you found a way to set up a long suit, keeping stoppers to keep control of the hand. You did not need to take the club finesse which would have lost, and you would have been set one trick, instead of making a small slam and 990 points for your partnership. Well done. By the way, did you notice that North/South can make 12 tricks in hearts and diamonds as well as in no trump? So you have extra choices if you really want to explore them. ***** Answer to last week’s bridge question: Can you pick up an extra overtrick by trying the spade suit? Indeed you can and should. Count the spades: you have four and three for seven; each opponent has three. Give up one spade trick to the opponents, cash your two spade tricks, and keep an entry to take the 13th spade for an additional overtrick. ***** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) Call Scott 517-290-5556 • 877-448-1548 FREE Consultation & Estimates! ALSO EGRESS WINDOWS / MOLD REMEDIATION Licensed & Insured References Available Over 24 Yrs. of Basement Construction & Waterproofing Hastings High School Class of 1982 CONCRETE STOP LEAK AFFORDABLE Epoxy Pressure Injection 30 YEAR REUNION! Stop Leaking Basements from the INSIDE No Digging - No Excavating - Lifetime Guarantee Over 8 Years Epoxy Experience • Res. & Com. 77570214 East 77570231 North Call Tim, a local company 269-758-3312 TWO BROTHERS AND A TENT For All Your Tent Rental Needs Tables and chairs available. When: Saturday, August 18th Where: Seasonal Grille - Downtown Hastings Time: 7:00pm - 10:00 pm Cost: $20.00 per person - Pay at the door HHS Classmates from 1979 - 1985, please join us from 10:00pm on to help us celebrate! 1982 - 2012 Call: Dan McKinney 269-838-7057 or Tom McKinney 269-838-3842 77566915 ® The WHAT DOES A DENTED FENDER AND DINNER HAVE IN COMMON? It could be a lot, if you bring your vehicle to Deming’s Auto Collision in Hastings. For the month of August 2012, Deming’s will enter all the new estimates they do in a drawing for a $50 Gift Certificate to the Seasonal Grille in downtown Hastings. Deming’s works with all insurance companies and their years of quality body repair makes them southwest Michigan’s premiere body shop. No purchase is necessary, however, when you have Deming’s estimate your repairs, you just might win a certificate for a great meal! DISCLAIMER: Drawing to be held on 8-31-2012 at Noon. Need not be present to win. Winner notified by phone, email, text or US Mail. Multiple estimates per person are allowed. Estimates restricted to cars, trucks, motorhomes and airplanes. Monday - Friday 8:00AM to 5:30PM, Saturdays by Appointment 269-945-2922 Phone: Fax: 269-945-0320 • www.demingsautocollision.com 77570160 77564841 Call 945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads 2493 W. STATE RD. (NEXT TO THE HASTINGS AIRPORT) �Page 8 — Thursday, August 16, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa by Elaine Garlock The Tri-River Museum group meets Tuesday, Aug. 21, at the Freeport museum. The group had a fine attendance at the July luncheon in Belding. The Blanchard House in Ionia will be open for tours both Sunday, Aug. 19, and Aug. 26, from 1 to 4 p.m. This is an architectural treat, beautifully furnished with heirloom furniture acquired from many Ionia County families. The Lake Odessa Community Library has several events planned for youngsters. For the youngest group from 5 years to sixth grade, the Aug. 22 program at 10:30 a.m. is called Roll the Dice. Aug. 29, it is billed as Wheel of Fortune. The summer fun includes, for those ages 11 to 18, a book fair of Death Mystery and pizza Aug. 16 and Aug. 23 at 2 p.m. the title is Tie Dye, when participants are advised to bring a pre-washed T-shirt or a pair of socks. Then the family adventure has one event, from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 23. United Methodist women of Central United Methodist Church met Monday at noon for their annual salad luncheon with several guests present. The speaker was Karen Sandborn, an Extension Service specialist in gardening. Last fall, she went on her first trip to Haiti with a view of lending her expertise in that beleaguered nation which is still reeling from a massive earthquake in 2010. Her first quest was to find some actual soil in which to plant anything. As have many others, she stressed the cleanliness of the Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of natives. Daily laundry of their outer clothing is a priority, so she learned their names by association with what they wore every day. Since that initial visit, Sandborn has returned three times and plans other visits. On her last trip her husband and two children accompanied her. Due to denuding of the hillsides of any trees, land erosion is widespread. This shows in the muddy streams and the brown water off the coast. Use of solar ovens is slowly making an impact, both by reducing the amount of lung problems for people cooking inside with charcoal and reducing the need for further removal of vegetation on the hillsides. However, the solar ovens are used by only a tiny fraction of the people, she said. Many Haitians are still living in tent cities. The genealogy society met Saturday and heard a panel of ladies from the Curtis family answer questions on their pioneer family using techniques for oral history. Bonnie Mattson showed several tools being used today to record oral history. The ladies interviewed were Jacqueline Gilliland, her sister Janis Kenyon of Portland, and their cousin Marian Klein all of who had memories of the Curtis-Bretz farm on Tasker Road. Now that the primary is past, one would expect that the persistent telephone pitches and survey would be over. However, yet one more call came on Wednesday asking for whom the callee planned to vote for county sheriff. The next election will be Nov. 6. Don’t fret over changing bond prices When you own stocks, you know their prices will always fluctuate. To help ease the effects of this volatility on your portfolio, you could add other types of investments, such as bonds. Yet bond prices will also rise and fall. But there may be — in fact, there should be — a big difference in how you view the ups and downs of stocks versus those of bonds. Any number of reasons can cause stock prices to go up or down. But in the case of bonds, prices go up and down largely, though not exclusively, for one reason: changes in interest rates. Suppose you purchase a bond that pays 4% interest and then, a year later, newly issued bonds pay 3%. You could now potentially sell your bond for more than its face value because it provides more income to investors than the new bonds. Conversely, if newly issued bonds pay 5% interest, the value of your existing bond would drop because it’s unlikely that someone would pay full price for a bond that provides less income than newer bonds. When you own stocks, or stock-based investments, you want their price to rise because you probably plan on selling those stocks someday — and you’d like to sell them for more than you paid for them. But it’s not so cut-and-dried with bonds. While some people may indeed purchase bonds in hope of selling them for a profit before they mature, many other investors own bonds for other reasons. First, as mentioned above, owning bonds can be a good way to help diversify your portfolio. Second, and probably more important- Have a Printing Need? We Have a Colorful Solution... • CO PIE I NT RI LP 1 s •Hastings Banner •Hastings Reminder •Sun & News •Lakewood News •Maple Valley News •Marshall Chronicle & Community Advisor •Battle Creek Shopper •Lowell Ledger & Buyers’ Guide NG Publishers of: *H *O igh ne Q Ch e c •C k H ua o ou lit •F olor ut o ol u C rP yF r •C di o ng pie spe o s •B lla ho ilm cia & t ls •C lack ing Lam to er v u i & n * Pr i s •P ce ati to W s oc m l ng h : an astic Ru ite es d M Bin bbe Cop sin or i e! ding r Sta es g* m p Whether your printing needs are complex color brochures or simple black and white forms, let J-ad Graphics design, print and deliver quality printed materials you’ll be proud of. Complete design, printing and bindery facilities in-house to handle all of your printing needs no matter how large or small. Call one of our Printing Specialists today! PR IN TIN G N • OR OL Phone (269) 945-9554 Fax (269) 945-5192 ly, people invest in bonds for the income they provide in the form of interest payments. And here’s the good thing about those interest payments: They’ll always continue at the same level as long as you own your bond, except in the rare case of a default. (Although defaults are not common, they can occur, so you do need to take a bond’s “credit risk” into account before investing.) Thus, if you plan to hold your bonds until they mature, you don’t have to worry about a possible drop in their value. But if you need to sell your bonds before they mature, the price you receive will depend on current interest rates. You can’t control or predict interest rates, but you can help soften their impact on bond prices by building a “ladder” of bonds with varying maturities. Then, if market interest rates rise, you can sell your maturing shortterm bonds and purchase new ones at the higher rates. And if market rates fall, you’ll still have your longer-term bonds working for you at higher rates. (Usually, but not always, longer-term bonds pay higher rates to compensate investors for incurring inflation risk over time.) Keep in mind, though, that the investments within your bond ladder should be consistent with your investment objectives, financial circumstances and risk tolerance. Whether you own your bonds until maturity or build a bond ladder, you can do something to protect yourself from price movements. And that type of control can prove valuable to you as you chart your course through the investment world. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 35.44 +.49 AT&T 37.25 -.19 BP PLC 42.18 -.32 CMS Energy Corp 23.72 -.16 Coca-Cola Co 39.38 -.08 Eaton 45.75 +1.10 Family Dollar Stores 63.27 -2.76 Fifth Third Bancorp 14.25 +.02 Flowserve CP 127.27 +.32 Ford Motor Co. 9.44 +.13 General Mills 38.42 +.08 General Motors 20.21 -.21 Intel Corp. 26.48 -.02 Kellogg Co. 50.81 +.56 McDonald’s Corp 88.12 -.89 Pfizer Inc. 23.98 +.24 Ralcorp 64.59 +.33 Sears Holding 55.17 +2.49 Spartan Motors 4.84 -.42 Spartan Stores 15.12 -.14 Stryker 53.79 +.79 TCF Financial 10.34 -.06 Walmart Stores 74.01 +.02 Gold $1,599.90 -12.20 Silver $27.82 -.30 Dow Jones Average 13,172 +03 Volume on NYSE 524M -156M Dashing for safety 1351 N. M-43 Hwy. P.O. Box 188 Hastings, MI 49058-0188 To contact one of our Printing Specialists Call: EDWARD JONES IG ES &D by Dr. E. Kirsten Peters I was minding my own business in my kitchen the other day, tossing some eggshells into the small garbage pail that sits underneath the sink. Suddenly I heard a rustle coming from the plastic lining the garbage pail. Puzzled, I looked into the cupboard more carefully. In a blur of gray, a mouse dashed up and out of the pail and disappeared down the hole in the wood where the water pipes come up from the basement. He was a little fellow, but fast as an Olympic athlete doing the 100-meter dash. I sighed. I have nothing against mice when they’re outdoors, but I object to sharing living space with them. I knew that the mouse sighting was the first event in what proved to be a two-week effort to trap the several mice that were in my basement pantry and the kitchen cupboards upstairs. I never caught a glimpse of the other mice while they were alive, I just found their little bodies in the old-fashioned mouse traps I put out. When I was young, I lived for a year in a tenement in Seattle that had cockroaches. They moved even faster than the speediest mouse. Only a split second passed between turning on the lights in the kitchen in the evening and seeing the roaches skedaddle off the floor and counters. I was reminded of the roaches in my kitchen when I read about some research into fast-moving animals that’s been ongoing at the University of California Berkeley for some years. Professor Robert Full and others have been studying speed and maneuverability in animals. Fifteen years ago, they discovered that when cockroaches want to really make tracks and sprint away from trouble, they stand up on their hind legs and run on just two feet. Roaches are indeed fast little buggers. As Full said to the media, “They have fast relay systems that allow them to dart away quickly in response to light or motion at speeds up to 50 body lengths per second, which is equivalent to a couple hundred miles per hour if you scale up to the size of humans.” Those of us who have lived with cockroaches know of their speed and their ability to disappear into small cracks. But JeanMichel Mongeau of UC Berkeley and his colleagues have now documented another behavior that helps roaches escape trouble. The insects can run for a ledge, grab the edge with their hind legs, and swing a full 180 underneath. This puts the roaches upside down but safe under the overhang. The forces on the insect are significant — about three to five times the normal force of gravity. It’s all a pretty neat trick, one not really visible to the naked eye but that became evident when researchers slowed down the action they captured on a high-speed camera. It turns out, roaches are not unique in this approach to dodging trouble. Some lizards also can do a similar maneuver. “The behavior is probably pretty widespread because it is an effective way to quickly move out of sight for small animals,” Full said to the press. The story doesn’t end with the study of insects and lizards. Full’s research group has worked with some electrical engineers at Berkeley who are developing a sixlegged robot with Velcro on its feet that they call DASH, for Dynamic Autonomous Sprawled Hexapod. The DASH robot is inspired by the humble cockroach. Engineers have long labored to make more maneuverable robots. Now the hope at Berkeley is to make a machine that’s as versatile as the cockroach. “Today, some robots are good at running, some at climbing, but very few are good at both or transitioning from one behavior to the other,” Full said. “That’s really the challenge now in robotics, to produce robots that can transition on complex surfaces.” The effort is not just academic. If we had intelligent and maneuverable robots, they could take on tasks too risky or difficult for us. For example, they could be sent into collapsed buildings or other areas too dangerous or difficult for first responders. I wish the researchers well, and I’m glad they find inspiration for good work in animals like cockroaches. I’m also glad my kitchen is — at least for now — free of both scurrying insects and dashing mice. Dr. E. Kirsten Peters, a native of the rural Northwest, was trained as a geologist at Princeton and Harvard universities. Follow her online at rockdoc.wsu.edu and on Twitter @RockDocWSU. This column is a service of the College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences at Washington State University. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 16, 2012 — Page 9 Rotary works for world peace through service Hastings merchants challenge customers with contests during Farmer Days watch. Parmalee Store – Number of pins in container; $25 in store merchandise. Jacob’s Prescription Pharmacy – Number of PTZ (Phenothiazine) in container; $12 in store merchandise of veterinary supplies, instruments or insecticides. Cleveland’s (formerly Baird’s) – Guess price of complete boy’s outfit; choice of $10.50 Chippewa wool shirt. LyBarker Drug Store, Ken Hoffman – Guess number of bars of soap in bushel basket; winner gets soap. Waldrons Wallpaper & Paint Store – Guess the number of beans in container; first - a room of wallpaper, second - 1 gallon self-seal flat paint, third - 1 quart enamel. Gardner’s Drug Store – Guess the weight of bale of hay; 25 pounds of Pratts stock tonic and six cans of louse powder. Roth Furniture Store – Guess weight of roll of 12 ft. felt base linoleum; a $25 floor lamp. Taylors Shoe Store – Guess weight of two pair men’s shoes; $10 in store merchandise. Wilcox Florist – Give names of 10 plants on display; one dozen roses. Barry Cleaners – Guess number of buttons in jar; $10 in dry cleaning. J.C. Penney Store – Guess number of total garments, shirts and pants in window section; one shirt and pants. Werner’s Ladies Apparel – Guess number of squares in child’s dress; choice of $10.95 dress. Myers 5¢ & 10¢ Store – Guess number of clothespins in basket; $10 in store merchandise. G.E. Goodyear Hardware – Guess number of bolts in jar; five gallon can of red barn paint. Firestone Store Hastings Supply – Guess number of items in Whirlpool washer displayed in store window; $15 in paint from store stock. Cordes News – Guess number of magazine titles on store shelves; $10 in O’Brien’s paint. Ben Franklin Store – Guess number of candy kisses in bushel basket; $10 in store merchandise. Mark’s Store – Guess number of marbles in container; $10 in store merchandise. Montgomery Ward – Guess number of pins in pin cushion; $12.50 in store merchandise. Long & Moore Store – Guess number of kernels of corn on cob; $10 in ShermanWilliams paint. M&M Paint Store – Guess number of kernels of corn in jar; $12 worth of Spred Satin or Spred Gloss. TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PARTIES PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a Public Hearing will be held by the Prairieville Township Zoning Board of Appeals on September 5, 2012 at 7:00 P.M. at the Prairieville Township Hall, 10115 S. Norris Road, within the Township. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the item(s) to be considered at this Public Hearing include, in brief, the following: 1. A request by Charles Stack 4185 Pine Knoll, Parchment, MI 49004, seeking a variance from the front, side and rear yard setback requirement set forth in Section 4.24 Waterfront Lots, to allow for the construction of a single family dwelling . The subject property 10879 Long Point Dr - 08-12-310-016-00, is located within the “R2” Residential District. 2. Such other and further matters as may properly come before the Zoning Board of Appeals for this meeting. All interested persons are invited to be present or submit written comments on this matter(s) to the below Township office address. Prairieville Township will provide necessary auxiliary aids and services such as signers for the hearing impaired and audiotapes of printed materials being considered at the hearing upon five (5) days notice to the Prairieville Township Clerk. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Prairieville Township Clerk at the address or telephone number set forth below. 77570239 Jim Stoneburner, Township Supervisor New Hastings Rotary President Tim Girrbach (left) and Middleville Rotarian and Michigan Rotary Assistant Gov. Jerry Stein (right) welcome Rotary District 6360 Gov. Mark Henne to Hastings. by David DeDecker Staff Writer Assistant Gov. of Michigan’s Rotary Jerry Stein, of Middleville, took the podium at the Hastings Rotary Club meeting Aug. 6 to introduce Michigan Rotary District 6360 Gov. Mark Henne. Henne began his presentation by saying Rotary began in 1905 when Paul Harris called up three friends and start a club over lunch. Now, 107 years later, 1.2 million Rotarians belong to 34,000 clubs around the world. “Do you think Paul Harris had any notion that his idea would turn into such an international phenomenon?” asked Henne. The Rotary Foundation decided to focus on six areas: peace and conflict resolution, water and sanitation, disease prevention and treatment, maternal and child health, basic education and literacy, and economic and community development. Henne’s presentation focused on these areas, and he showed video clips of Rotarians describing how their simple ideas are coming to fruition with Rotary’s help. He told Rotarians, gathered for lunch at the Walldorff Bistro, every year the Rotary International President picks a theme. This year’s theme is “peace through service.” “It could simply be the peace of no conflict,” said Henne, who has a degree in chemistry and hydrogeology and is also an attorney and environmental consultant.. “We have 31 areas in the world where people are living day to day with armed conflict. Or ... the peace a mother feels when her child has enough food to eat and clean water to drink. The peace of a child who can now see with new glasses, can learn to read and write. The peace of knowing her child will not be crippled by polio.” Focus No. 1 is the formation of peace centers, peace education and mentorship programs, he said. “Peaceful efforts right here in our communities, including mentoring kids to make good decisions in school and in relationships, and understand how their decisions impact their entire lives,” Henne explained. Benton Harbor Rotary Club started a mentoring program a few years ago where business people would take young people to lunch. They decided to take the program up a notch. A student fills out an application and is matched up with a compatible business person. The student gets one-on-one time with a local executive. The student spends an hour or so in a real-life business situation being mentored by the Rotarian. Sixty students signed up over a two-week period. A Lansing Rotarian started a project that educates 600 students in Uganda. The project is now being replicated in other areas of Africa. Clean water is also a major focus of Rotary Clubs on an international level. “There are 7 billion people in the world, and 2 billion people don’t have access to clean drinking water,” said Henne. “Rotary has helped put 20,000 biosand water filters in the Dominican Republic. Each of the biosand filters provides daily clean water for 10 people, which means 200,000 people now have clean H20.” Polio eradication has been a focus of Rotary clubs all over the world. Since the 1980s, the Rotary polio project has helped to reduce cases of paralytic polio in the world down to just three countries. Recently, India was declared polio-free for more than a year. In Peru, in the 1970s, one of six children died. Today, the number is up to one in 50, he said. “It shows through our efforts we can significantly improve the health and welfare of a country,” Henne said. The Lansing-Dewitt Rotary Club has made many trips to Peru over the past nine years, starting with medical missions to repair cleft palates. Three years ago, the club started providing eye examinations and to date has completed more than 5,000 eye exams. Then members collaborated with other clubs to provide 500 cataract surgeries in a rural area of Peru. Recently, the club worked with others to create a medical clinic in a small Peruvian city. Henne also said a furnace boiler went out at a Lansing area homeless shelter. After Lansing Rotarians learned about the incident, they started texting, blogging and sending messages. In five days, they raised $15,000 for a new boiler. 06788706 With Summerfest just around the corner and a festive atmosphere on the horizon, it seems a good time to look back at another celebration in town — Hastings Farmer Days, which took place March 20 and 21, 1953. The event, sponsored by the Hastings Chamber of Commerce, was dedicated to agrarians, according to the March 12, 1953, Banner. Along with the celebration will be entertainment on Friday night on main street. “Store windows are to be decorated with festive agricultural scenes,” stated the article. “For added appreciation, the merchants will run some ‘very hot’ merchandise specials. “All farmers, and even urban residents, may participate in the contests and events.” Following is an introduction to the contests and a list supplied to the Banner in March 1953, giving the name of the business, the contest it devised, and the prize to be awarded. ***** In appreciation of the farmer trade, the retail merchants of Hastings are presenting this program of contests and merchandise specials for the farmers of Barry County and the area. In order to participate, each individual can sign up at each store by listing name, address and his or her guess as pertaining to the contest involved. Below are the stores, contests and prizes which are good only Friday and Saturday, March 20 and 21. Winners will be announced at 4 p.m. Saturday, March 21, on the public address system. (Store, contest, prize, respectively) Spangler’s – Number of yards of nylon yarn in one nylon stocking; one dozen pair nylon hose. K-B Supply – How many hammer strokes to break a nylon cord from a Goodyear Double Eagle tire; set of five tubes for winner’s car. Bonnet & Gown Shop – Guess number of buttons in container; first - $5, second - $4, third - $3 in store merchandise. Goodyear Bros. Hardware – Number of nails in keg; tractor umbrella. Feldpausch Food Center – Guess weight of hind quarter of beef; the beef. Taffee Drug Store – Guess number of pills in container; electric popcorn popper. Waters Clothing Store – Guess size of large display sock; one dozen Red Heel Rockford work socks. Miller Jewelry Store – Number of kernels of corn in jar; $30, 17 Jewel shockproof wrist Henne concluded his presentation with a philosophical observation. “Maybe it’s the inner peace a Rotarian feels when giving time, talents and financial support to what is really the greatest service club in the entire world,” he said. “There are all kinds of things Rotary does, and each one is to help humankind. It all happens when a person has an idea and pursues that idea. Get involved and make an idea a reality.” EPIC TOUR - 3 ROCK BANDS @ The REVUE 301 N. Main, Nashville, MI FRI., AUG. 17, 2012 For More Information Call: 269- 838-4216 1 MANIC DRIVE 1 PIONEER 1 MATT MOORE BAND Doors open at 6:30 3 BANDS $ 5 RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE REZONING PROPERTY TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that at the August 8, 2012 meeting of the Rutland Charter Township Board the following Ordinance No. 2012-142 was adopted. The original ordinance may be inspected or a copy purchased by contacting the Township Clerk, Robin Hawthorne, 2461 Heath Road, Hastings, MI 49058, 269-948-2194, during regular business hours of regular working days, and at such other times as may be arranged. RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP BOARD Rutland Charter Township Hall 2461 Heath Road Hastings, MI 49058 Telephone: (269) 948-2194 CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF RUTLAND BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN ORDINANCE # 2012-142 Amendment to the Rutland Charter Township Zoning Map ADOPTED: AUGUST 8, 2012 EFFECTIVE: AUGUST 24, 2012 An Ordinance to amend the Rutland Charter Township Zoning Ordinance by the rezoning of the subject parcel located in Land Section 14 within the Township from the "C-3", General Business District zoning classification to the “MU”, Mixed Use District zoning classification; and to repeal all Ordinances or parts of Ordinances in conflict herewith. The Charter Township of Rutland Barry County, Michigan ORDAINS SECTION I Rezoning of Properties in Land Section 14 The Zoning Map as incorporated by reference in the Rutland Charter Township Zoning Ordinance is hereby amended by rezoning from the "C-3", General Business District zoning classification to the “MU”, Mixed Use District zoning classification the following described properties in Land Section 14, Parcel # 08-13-014-045-00: RUTLAND TWP W 5 A OF; S 10 A E 1/2 OF S E 1/4 NW 1/4 SEC 14-3-9 ALSO COM AT W 1/4 POST SEC 14 TH S 88 DEG 51' 43" E 1959.27 FT FOR POB TH N 00 DEG 04' 38" E 233 FT TH S 88 DEG 51' 43" E 11.5 FT TH S 00 DEG 04' 38" W 233 FT TH N 88 DEG 51' 43" W 11.5 FT TO POB SECTION II Severability The provisions of this Ordinance are hereby declared to be severable, and if any part of are declared invalid for any reason by a court of competent jurisdiction it shall not affect the remainder of the Ordinance, which shall continue in full force and effect. SECTION III Repeal of Conflicting Ordinances All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with this Ordinance are hereby repealed. SECTION IV Effective Date This Ordinance shall take effect eight (8) days after publication of the Notice of Adoption by the Township Board. Robin Hawthorne, Clerk Charter Township of Rutland 77570210 �Page 10 — Thursday, August 16, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN 56B JUDICIAL DISTRICT JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY PROBATE ORDER FOR SERVICE BY PUBLICATION/POSTING AND NOTICE OF ACTION CASE NO. 12-0899-SP Court Address: 206 W. Court St., Hastings, MI 49058 Court Telephone No. (269) 945-1404 Plaintiff GRAND BANK FOR SAVINGS, FSB Stephanie C. Kamykowski, (P74223) Trott & Trott P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy., #200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 (248) 341-4772 v ROBIN L. ALLEN a/k/a ROBIN PETERS All Occupants 10660 Maple Grove Rd. Nashville, MI 49073 TO: ROBIN L. ALLEN a/k/a ROBIN PETERS IT IS ORDERED: You are being sued in this county by the plaintiff to Recover possession of property after Land Contract Forfeiture. You must file you answer or take other action permitted by law in this court. If you fail to do so, a default judgment may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint filed in this case. A copy of this order shall be published once each week in Hastings Banner for three consecutive weeks, and proof of publication shall be filed in this court. Rick E. Risk shall post a copy of this order in the courthouse, and at 10660 Maple Grove Rd., Nashville, MI 49073 and at The Dayton Tennessee City Court - 399 1st Avenue, Dayton, TN 37321 for once a week for 3 weeks, and shall file proof of posting in this court. A copy of this order shall be sent to Robin L. Allen, a/k/a Robin Peters, at the last-known address by registered mail, return receipt requested, before the date of the last publication, and the affidavit of mailing shall be filed with this court. Date: July 9, 2012 77569811 Judge Michael L. Schipper P42154 This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Joseph Anderson who acquired title as Joseph Anderson and Melanie Anderson, husband and wife to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for Gold Star Mortgage Corp, its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated May 21, 2010 and recorded June 2, 2010 in Instrument # 201006020005345 Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage was assigned to: Flagstar Bank, FSB, by assignment dated June 20, 2012 and recorded June 29, 2012 in Instrument # 2012001718 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Four Thousand Nine Hundred Seventy Dollars and FiftySeven Cents ($64,970.57) including interest 5.75% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on September 13, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 90 and the West 4 feet of Lot 89, Middleville Down Addition No. 5, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 43, Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan Commonly known as 945 Greenwood St, Middleville MI 49333 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 8/16/2012 Flagstar Bank, FSB Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-64413 (0877570249 16)(09-06) NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT; ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY SERVICE PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW. Notice under MCL 600.3278: Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale under MCL 600.3201 et. seq., the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. ATTENTION POTENTIAL PURCHASERS AT FORECLOSURE SALE: In the case of resolution prior to or simultaneously with the aforementioned foreclosure sale, U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate Trust 1998-7, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents may rescind this sale at any time prior to the end of the redemption period. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited to the return of your bid amount tendered at the sale, plus interest. Default having occurred in the conditions of a Mortgage made by Boyd J. Tobias, unmarried ("Mortgagor") to Green Tree Servicing LLC (f/k/a Green Tree Financial Servicing Corporation), dated June 11, 1998, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry in the State of Michigan on June 16, 1998, in Document Number 1013602, et. seq., said Mortgage being last assigned to U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate Trust 1998-7 ("Green Tree"), by Mortgage Assignment dated July 3, 2012, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry in the State of Michigan on July 11, 2012, in Document Number 2012-002080, et. seq., on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due as of the date of this Notice the sum of $84,112.67, which amount may or may not be the entire indebtedness owed by Debtors to Green Tree together with interest at 8.75 percent per annum. NOW THEREFORE, Notice is hereby given that the power of sale contained in said Mortgage has become operative and that pursuant to that power of sale and MCL 600.3201 et. seq., on September 6, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., on the East steps of the Circuit Court Building in Hastings, Michigan, that being the place for holding the Circuit Court and/or for conducting such foreclosure sales for the County of Barry, there will be offered at public sale, the premises, or some part thereof, described in said Mortgage as follows, to-wit: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF CARLTON, COUNTY OF BARRY, STATE OF MICHIGAN, IS DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: PARCEL 2: BEGINNING AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF THE SOUTHEAST 1/4 OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 32, TOWN 4 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST; THENCE NORTH, 17 FEET ALONG THE EAST 1/8 LINE; THENCE EAST 318 FEET PARALLEL WITH THE EAST AND WEST 1/4 LINE OF SECTION 32; THENCE SOUTH 137 FEET; THENCE WEST 318 FEET TO THE EAST 1/8 LINE; THENCE NORTH 120 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. SUBJECT TO AND TOGETHER WITH RIGHTS OF INGRESS AND EGRESS IN A PRIVATE EASEMENT 66 FEET IN WIDTH ACROSS THE NORTH SIDE OF ABOVE DESCRIBED PARCEL, THE SOUTH LINE OF WHICH IS COINCIDENT WITH THE NORTH LINE OF SAID PARCEL. which also includes any interest Green Tree may have in the 1997 Redman Mobile Home, Serial Number 143T0381. The redemption period shall be six (6) months unless the property is established to be abandoned pursuant to MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of sale or fifteen (15) days from the date the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(b) was posted and mailed, or unless under MCL 600.3240(17), prior to the foreclosure sale the borrower follows the procedure set forth in that section to establish the presumption that the property is used for Agricultural purposes, in which case the redemption period shall be one (1) year from the date of the sale. Dated: July 27, 2012 U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate Trust 19987, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents By: DONALD A. BRANDT (P30183) BRANDT, FISHER, ALWARD & PEZZETTI, P.C. Attorneys for Green Tree 1241 E. Eighth Street, P.O. Box 5817 Traverse City, Michigan 49696-5817 (231) 941-9660 File No.: 6140.1134 Ad #34618 77569806 08/02, 08/09, 08/16, 08/23/2012 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Gregory R. Price and Tricia Price, husband and wife, as joint tenants with full rights of survivorship, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lenders successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated December 23, 2005 and recorded February 24, 2006 in Instrument Number 1160524, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Citibank, N.A., as Trustee for Bear Stearns Asset Backed Securities I Trust 2006-HE3, Asset Backed-Certificates, Series 2006HE3 by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred ThirtyThree Thousand Nine Hundred Forty-One and 35/100 Dollars ($133,941.35) including interest at 5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 08/23/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Woodland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Township of Woodland, County of Barry, Michigan: Lot 37 of McLenithan Subdivision, according to the recorded Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 44, also, commencing at the Southeast corner of Lot 37 of McLenithan's Subdivision, according to the recorded Plat thereof; thence Southwesterly 17 feet; thence Northwesterly 50 feet parallel to the Southwest of said Lot 37; thence Northeasterly 17 feet to the Southwest corner of Lot 37; thence Southeasterly along the Southwest side of said Lot 37 to the place of beginning, being in the Southwest 1/4 of Section 4, Town 4 North, Range 7 West. Also, Lot 38 of McLenithan's Subdivision, Jordan Lake, according to the recorded plat thereof. Also, commencing at the Southeast corner of Lot 38 McLenithan's Subdivision, according to the recorded Plat thereof; thence Southwesterly 17 feet; thence Northwesterly 45 feet parallel to the Southwest side of said Lot 38; thence Northeasterly 17 feet to the Southwest corner of Lot 38; thence Southeasterly along the Southwest side of said Lot 38 to the place of beginning, All being in the Southwest 1/4 of Section 4, Town 4 North, Range 7 West. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: July 26, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 199.5052 77569706 (07-26)(08-16) PUBLIC LAND AUCTION The following County Treasurers will be offering tax-reverted real estate at public Auction on September 25th, 2012: Barry, Ionia & Montcalm. The Auction will be held at The Montcalm County Administrative Building-Jack VanHarn Commissioners Room, 211 W. Main St., Stanton, MI 48888. Registration will begin at 11:30am, Auction will begin at 12:00pm. Online bidding will be available via www.tax-sale.info. For more information or for a list of the properties being sold, visit our website at www.tax-safe.info or call 1-800-259-7470. Sale listings are also available at your local County Treasurer’s office. 77570227 CITY OF HASTINGS REQUEST FOR BIDS STORM SEWER OUTLET IMPROVEMENTS The City of Hastings is accepting sealed bids for stabilization and repair of the storm sewer outlet on west Apple Street located adjacent to the City’s Wastewater Treatment Plant. Specifications are available at City Hall at 201 East State Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Sealed bids will be received at the Office of the City Clerk/Treasurer at the above address until 9:00 AM on Thursday, August 30, 2012 at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. The City reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularity in any bid, and to award the bid in a manner it believes to be in its own best interest, price and other factors considered. Contractors will be required to provide proof of insurance in the amounts included in the bid package. All bids must be clearly marked on the outside of the submittal package “Sealed Bid – Storm Sewer Outlet Improvements.” Tim Girrbach Director of Public Services 77570225 NOTICE The minutes of the meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners held August 14, 2012, are available in the County Clerk’s Office at 220 W. State St., Hastings, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or www.barrycounty.org. 77570097 CITY OF HASTINGS REQUEST FOR BIDS The City of Hastings is soliciting bids for the provision of ten (10) HP Interspiro 45 Minute Carbon Fiber SCBA Bottle for use by the Hastings Fire Department. Specifications are available from the Office of the City Clerk. The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in the bid proposals, and to award the bid as deemed to be in the City’s best interest, price and other factors considered. Bids must be clearly marked on the outside of the submittal package – “SCBA Bottle Bid”. Bids will be received at the Office of the City Clerk/Treasurer, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 until 10:30 AM on Tuesday, August 28, 2012 at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. Roger Caris Fire Chief 77570223 SYNOPSIS RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP SPECIAL BOARD MEETING AUGUST 2, 2012 -7:30 P.M. Regular meeting called to order and Pledge of Allegiance. Present: Greenfield, Bellmore, Hawthorne, Carr, Lee, Hanshaw, Flint Absent: none Approved the Agenda as presented. Approved the July 11, 2012 meeting minutes. Lengthy discussion on the Urban Services and Intergovernmental Agreements. Meeting Adjourned at 9:52p.m. Respectfully submitted, Robin Hawthorne, Clerk Attested to by, Jim Carr, Supervisor www.rutlandtownship.org 77570206 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Laura M. Davis, an unmarried woman, original mortgagor(s), to PHH Mortgage Services, Mortgagee, dated April 30, 2003, and recorded on May 21, 2003 in instrument 1104892, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-One Thousand Eleven and 69/100 Dollars ($81,011.69). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on September 13, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Being known and designated as a parcel of land in the Southwest 1/4 of section 8, Town 3 North, Range 10 West, Yankee Springs TWP., Barry County, MI, described as: Beginning at a point in the center of road which lies 1467.40 feet due North and North 75 degrees West 782.07 feet from the South 1/4 post of section 8; thence South 6 Degrees 6 feet West 158 feet; thence North 83 degrees 14 feet West 82.50 feet; thence North 6 degrees 6 feet East 158 feet; thence South 83 degrees 14 feet East 82.50 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 16, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #410611F01 77570218 (08-16)(09-06) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by David T. Gross and April I. Gross, as husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to SBC Mortgage, LLC, Mortgagee, dated December 10, 2001, and recorded on January 9, 2002 in instrument 1072786, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Chemical Bank f/k/a Chemical Bank and Trust Company as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Eight Thousand Seven Hundred Thirty-One and 11/100 Dollars ($68,731.11). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on September 6, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Beginning at the Southeast corner of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 16, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, thence West 206.25 feet, thence North 206.25 feet, thence East 206.25 feet, thence South 206.25 feet to beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #404590F02 77569986 (08-09)(08-30) STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY PUBLICATION OF NOTICE OF HEARING FILE NO. 12-26159-NC In the matter of KIRSTEN DANIELLE ALKEMA. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS including: whose address(es) are unknown and whose interest in the matter may be barred or affected by the following: TAKE NOTICE: A hearing will be held on 08/29/2012 at 9:30 a.m. at COURTS & LAW BLDG., 206 W. COURT ST., HASTINGS before Judge William M. Doherty 41960 for the following purpose: A HEARING WILL BE HELD ON THE PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME OF KIRSTEN DANIELLE ALKEMA TO KIRSTEN DANIELLE DONAVAN. Date: 08/03/2012 MEAGAN D. DONAVAN 1375 ELSIE DRIVE HASTINGS, MI 49058 77570212 (269) 908-6322 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Matthew Schultz and Nicole Schultz, husband and wife as joint tenants, original mortgagor(s), to Arbor Mortgage, Mortgagee, dated December 16, 2005, and recorded on January 3, 2006 in instrument 1158410, and assigned by mesne assignments to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Seventy-Eight Thousand Eight Hundred Seventy-Seven and 87/100 Dollars ($178,877.87). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 23, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North 375 feet of the East 850 feet of the South 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 23, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, Irving Township, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #281531F03 77569542 (07-26)(08-16) FORECLOSURE NOTICE THIS IS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE Default has occurred in a Mortgage made on November 29, 2010 by Jerry D. Ray and Josie P. Ray, Mortgagor, to Hastings City Bank, a Michigan corporation, as Mortgagee. The Mortgage was recorded on December 6, 2010 in the Office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan in Instrument No. 201012060011368. At the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due and unpaid on the Mortgage the sum of NinetyTwo Thousand Six Hundred Seventeen and 26/100 Dollars ($92,617.26), including interest at 3.875% per annum. No suit or proceedings have been instituted to recover any part of the debt secured by the Mortgage, and the power of sale contained in the Mortgage has become operative by reason of such default. On Thursday, August 30, 2012, at one o'clock in the afternoon at the east steps of the Barry County Courthouse, 220 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan, which is the place for holding mortgage sales for Barry County, Michigan, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder, at public sale, for the purpose of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid upon the Mortgage, together with the legal costs and charges of sale, including attorneys' fees allowed by law, the property located in the Township of Rutland, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and described in the Mortgage as follows: A parcel of land in the Southeast 1/4 of Section 13, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, Rutland Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as beginning at a point on the south line of said Section 13 which lies South 89 degrees 13’ 30” West 395.70 feet from the Southeast corner of said Section 13; thence South 89 degrees 13’ 30” West 239.30 feet; thence due North 256.18 feet; thence South 89 degrees 56’ East 223.83 feet; thence South 13 degrees 02’ 40” East 67.77 feet; thence due South 186.57 feet to the point of beginning. Including rights of ingress and egress to said premises from Cook Road. More commonly known as 985 Arthur Court, Hastings, Michigan 49058 The redemption period shall be six months from the date of the sale unless the property is deemed abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a in which case the redemption period shall be thirty days after the foreclosure sale or when the time to provide the notice required by subdivision MCL 600.3241a(c) expires, whichever is later. MILLER JOHNSON Attorneys for Hastings City Bank /s/ Rachel J. Foster Dated: July 24, 2012 By: Rachel J. Foster 303 North Rose Street, Suite 600 Kalamazoo, Michigan 49007 77569677 269-226-2982 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 16, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Mark R. Storey and Julie Ann Storey, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated June 25, 2004, and recorded on July 8, 2004 in instrument 1130551, and assigned by said Mortgagee to THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 200410 as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Nine Thousand Four and 37/100 Dollars ($99,004.37). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on September 13, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing At The Northeast Corner Of Lot Eleven Hundred And Fifty Six Of Said Plat, Thence North 4 Rods, Thence West 8 Rods, Thence South 4 Rods, Thence East To Place Of Beginning, Being A Part Of This Southwest One Quarter Of Section 17, Town 3 North, Range 8 West. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 16, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #407981F01 77570154 (08-16)(09-06) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Lisa Cahill, an unmarried person, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated December 5, 2001, and recorded on December 13, 2001 in instrument 1071314, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Thirty-Five Thousand Seven Hundred Eighty-Four and 64/100 Dollars ($35,784.64). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on September 6, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 22 of Country Acres as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 64, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #410246F01 77570059 (08-09)(08-30) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Charles N. Teunessen and Shannon L. Teunessen, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Wells Fargo Bank, NA, Mortgagee, dated March 26, 2007, and recorded on April 2, 2007 in instrument 1178197, in Barry county records, Michigan, and assigned by said Mortgagee to HSBC Bank USA, National Association as Trustee for Wells Fargo Asset Securities Corporation, Mortgage Asset-BackedPass-Through Certificates Series 2007-PA2 as assignee, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ninety Thousand Four Hundred Sixty-Six and 66/100 Dollars ($190,466.66). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 23, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel 3: Commencing at the West 1/4 Post of Section 3, Town 2 North, Range 9 West; thence South 00 degrees 00 minutes 02 seconds West 995.29 feet along the West line of Section 3; thence South 87 degrees 28 minutes 31 seconds East 1924.87 feet along the North line of the South 100 Acres of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 3 for the true Place of Beginning; thence North 00 degrees 00 minutes 02 seconds East 340.00 feet; thence South 87 degrees 28 minutes 31 seconds East 206.00 feet; thence South 00 degrees 00 degrees 00 seconds 02 minutes West 340.00 feet to said North line of 100 Acres; thence North 87 degrees 28 minutes 31 seconds West 206.00 feet along the centerline of Anders Road to the Place of Beginning. Subject to highway right of way over the Southerly 33 feet thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #407014F01 77569536 (07-26)(08-16) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Marcia Bowman and Rodney Bowman, husband and wife, to Nationstar Mortgage, LLC f/k/a Centex Home Equity Company, LLC, Mortgagee, dated August 18, 2003 and recorded August 26, 2003 in Instrument Number 1111920, Barry County Records, Michigan. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred ThirtySeven Thousand Six Hundred Thirty-Four and 9/100 Dollars ($137,634.09) including interest at 4.079% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 09/13/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The following described premises situated in the Township of Hastings, County of Barry and State of Michigan, to wit: Lots 5 and 6, Todd's Acres Subdivision, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 4 of Plats, on Page 21, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: August 16, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 426.3857 (08-16)(09-06) 77570241 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Carol A. Crews and William D Crews Sr. aka William Delbert Crews, aka William D. Crews, wife and husband, original mortgagor(s), to American Express Bank, FSB, Mortgagee, dated November 19, 2004, and recorded on December 10, 2004 in instrument 1138504, and modified by Affidavit or Order recorded on May 17, 2012 in instrument 2012-00236, and assigned by said Mortgagee to PHH Mortgage Corporation as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Two Thousand Five Hundred One and 03/100 Dollars ($92,501.03). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on September 6, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Southeast corner of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 17, Town 2 North, Range 10 West, thence North 02 degrees 16 minutes 46 seconds West 200 feet, thence North 90 degrees West 104.3 feet, thence South 03 degrees 06 minutes 31 seconds West 200.14 feet, thence North 90 degrees East along Saddler Road 123.11 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #354808F04 77569945 (08-09)(08-30) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Robert E. Brady and Ruth E. Brady, as husband and wife and Gail K. Drew, as a single person, original mortgagor(s), to SBS Mortgage, LLC, Mortgagee, dated April 12, 2002, and recorded on May 1, 2002 in instrument 1079740, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ninety-Six Thousand Five Hundred Seventy-Three and 63/100 Dollars ($196,573.63). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on September 13, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Combining of Lots 43 and 44 of Streeter's Resort, according to the recorded Plat thereof on file and of record in the Office of the Register of Deeds for said Barry County, State of Michigan and also conveying the following land: beginning at a point at the Northwest corner of Lot 43, running North 3 degrees 15 minutes West to the center of the Highway known as Oakleigh Drive; thence North 86 degrees 45 minutes East along centerline of said Highway 106 feet; thence South 3 degrees 15 minutes East to the Northeast corner of Lot 44; thence running North 89 degrees West to the point of beginning, excepting therefrom a strip of land 33 feet wide off the North end thereof for Highway and a 10 foot strip of land off the South end of for alley purposes, all being in the Southeast 1/4 of Section 29, Town 3 North, Range 10 West, Township of Yankee Springs, County of Barry, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 16, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #408410F01 77570189 (08-16)(09-06) AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTIFY US AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by Ronald P. Armour , , Mortgagors, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for Polaris Home Funding Corp., Mortgagee, dated the 27th day of February, 2007 and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, for The County of Barry and State of Michigan, on the 2nd day of March, 2007 in Liber Instrument#1176993 of Barry County Records, page , said Mortgage having been assigned to Green Tree Servicing LLC on which mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, the sum of Eighty One Thousand Two Hundred Fifty Nine & 62/100 ($81259.62), and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on the 13th day of September, 2012 at 1:00 PM o’clock Local Time, said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI (that being the building where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held), of the premises described in said mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due, as aforesaid on said mortgage, with interest thereon at 7.75% per annum and all legal costs, charges, and expenses, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sum or sums which may be paid by the undersigned, necessary to protect its interest in the premises. Which said premises are described as follows: All that certain piece or parcel of land, including any and all structures, and homes, manufactured or otherwise, located thereon, situated in the Township of Baltimore, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and described as follows, to wit: A PARCEL OF LAND IN THE SOUTHWEST 1/4 OF THE SOUTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 35, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST, DESCRIBED AS: COMMENCING AT THE SOUTH 1/4 POST OF SAID SECTION 35 AND RUNNING THENCE NORTH 00 DEGREES 08 MINUTES WEST 426.4 FEET TO A POINT IN THE CENTER OF BIRD ROAD, WHICH IS THE TRUE POINT OF BEGINNING, THENCE NORTHEASTERLY 212.9 FEET ALONG THE CENTER OF BIRD ROAD ON THE ARC OF A CURVE TO THE RIGHT OF RADIUS 284.78 FEET, THE CHORD OF WHICH BEARS NORTH 19 DEGREES 33 MINUTES EAST 207.97 FEET, THENCE NORTH 40 DEGREES 58 MINUTES EAST, 41.1 FEET, THENCE SOUTH 60 DEGREES 18 MINUTES EAST 203 FEET, THENCE SOUTH 10 DEGREES 04 MINUTES WEST 120 FEET, THENCE SOUTH 88 DEGREES 07 MINUTES WEST 252 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. During the six (6) months immediately following the sale, the property may be redeemed, except that in the event that the property is determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241a, the property may be redeemed during 30 days immediately following the sale. Pursuant to MCLA 600.3278, the mortgagor(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 8/16/2012 Green Tree Servicing LLC Mortgagee FABRIZIO & BROOK, P.C. Attorney for Green Tree Servicing LLC 888 W. Big Beaver, Suite 800 Troy, Ml 48084 248-362-2600 GTSD FNMA ArmourRon 77570199 (08-16)(09-06) FORECLOSURE NOTICE RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES, P.C. MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. Mortgage Sale - Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by Rene Santiago and Stephanie Santiago (Husband & Wife) to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for M&I Bank FSB, Mortgagee, dated December 11, 2006, and recorded on December 19, 2006, as Document Number: 1174045, Barry County Records, said mortgage was assigned to U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for the registered holders of Bear Stearns Asset Backed Securities I Trust 2007HE4 Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2007-HE4 by an Assignment of Mortgage dated February 21, 2012 and recorded March 02, 2012 by Document Number: 201203020002169, , on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eighty-Two Thousand Six Hundred Nine and 36/100 ($182,609.36) including interest at the rate of 2.12000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the Circuit Court in said Barry County, where the premises to be sold or some part of them are situated, at 01:00 PM on September 13, 2012 Said premises are situated in the Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Unit 4, of Hickory Grove Condominium, according to the Master Deed thereof Recorded in Liber 660, Page 303 of Barry County Records, and designated as Barry County Condominium Subdivision Plan No. 7, and any Amendments thereto, together with an undivided interest in the common elements of said Condominium as set forth in said Master Deed, and any Amendments thereto, Last Amended by Amendment Recorded in Liber 668, Page 442 and as described in Act 59 of the public Acts of MI of 1978, as Amended. Commonly known as: 15136 Brooklodge Road If the property is eventually sold at foreclosure sale, the redemption period will be 6.00 months from the date of sale unless the property is abandoned or used for agricultural purposes. If the property is determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 and/or 600.3241a, the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of sale, or 15 days after statutory notice, whichever is later. If the property is presumed to be used for agricultural purposes prior to the date of the foreclosure sale pursuant to MCL 600.3240, the redemption period is 1 year. Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages are, if any, limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: August 16, 2012 Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for the registered holders of Bear Stearns Asset Backed Securities I Trust 2007-HE4 Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2007-HE4 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302, 248-335-9200 Case No. 77570234 10OMI01135-3 (08-16)(09-06) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Mark J. Doctor and Shannon D. Doctor, husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated July 25, 2003 and recorded August 13, 2003 in Instrument Number 1110797, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Mortgage Center LLC by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-One Thousand One Hundred Fifty and 71/100 Dollars ($71,150.71) including interest at 4.625% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 09/06/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The land referred to in this Commitment, situated in the County of Barry, Township of Irving, State of Michigan, is described as follows: That part of the North 3/4 of the East 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 15, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, Irving Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Commencing at the South 1/4 corner of said Section; thence North 00 degrees 11 minutes 15 seconds East 655.01 feet along the East line of said Southwest 1/4; thence South 89 degrees 47 minutes 18 seconds West 286.0 feet along the South line of said North 3/4 to the place of beginning; thence South 89 degrees 47 minutes 18 seconds West 345.44 feet along said South line; thence North 00 degrees 05 minutes 37 seconds East 547.54 feet to reference point "A"; thence South 66 degrees 31 minutes 14 seconds East 377.06 feet; thence South 00 degrees 11 minutes 15 seconds West 396.00 feet to the place of beginning. Subject to and together with an easement for ingress, egress and utility purposes over a 66 foot wide strip of land, the centerline of which is described as: Commencing at the South 1/4 corner of Section 15, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, Irving Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence North 00 degrees 11 minutes 15 seconds East 1369.01 feet along the East line of said Southeast 1/4 to the place of beginning; thence South 89 degrees 47 minutes 18 seconds West 450.75 feet along the North line of the South 714 feet of the North 3/4 East 1/2 of said Southwest 1/4; thence South 47 degrees 37 minutes 18 seconds West 247.22 feet to reference point "A"; thence South 66 degrees 31 minutes 14 seconds East 220.0 feet to the point of ending of said easement; also over a 66 foot wide strip of land beginning at said reference point "A"; thence South 89 degrees 47 minutes 18 seconds West 220.0 feet to the point of ending of said easements. The redemption period shall be 12 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: August 9, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 393.0702 77570054 (08-09)(08-30) GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. �Page 12 — Thursday, August 16, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES SYNOPSIS RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP REGULAR BOARD MEETING AUGUST 8, 2012 -7:30 P.M. Regular meeting called to order and Pledge of Allegiance. Present: Greenfield, Bellmore, Hawthorne, Carr, Lee, Hanshaw, Flint Absent: none Approved the Agenda as presented. Approved the Consent Agenda as presented. Approved the Rutland Charter Township/City of Hastings Intergovernmental Agreement for Sharing Urban Services by roll call vote. Set a special board meeting for Wednesday, August 22, 2012 at 7:30pm by roll call vote. Adopted Ordinance #2012-142 by roll call vote. Approved Resolution #2012-154, Road Millage Ballot Language by roll call vote. Meeting Adjourned at 9:47p.m. Respectfully submitted, Robin Hawthorne, Clerk Attested to by, Jim Carr, Supervisor 77570208 www.rutlandtownship.org Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Barry Wilson and Albrey Wilson, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 25, 2008, and recorded on February 22, 2008 in instrument 20080222-0001662, and modified by agreement dated November 9, 2010, and recorded on December 9, 2010 in instrument 201012090011514, and assigned by said Mortgagee to EverBank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Six Thousand One Hundred Seven and 61/100 Dollars ($76,107.61). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 30, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 229, City of Hastings Barry County, Michigan as recorded in Liber A Page 1, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 2, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #406482F01 77569722 (08-02)(08-23) AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTIFY US AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by Glen Tonnemacher and Nicole Marie Tonnmacher, husband and wife, Mortgagors, to BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., Mortgagee, dated the 24th day of May, 2010 and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, for The County of Barry and State of Michigan, on the 9th day of June, 2010 in Instrument #201006090005548 of Barry County Records, said Mortgage on which mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, the sum of Two Hundred Thirteen Thousand Eight Hundred Eighty & 98/100 ($213880.98), and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on the 6th day of September, 2012 at 1:00 PM o’clock Local Time, said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI (that being the building where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held), of the premises described in said mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due, as aforesaid on said mortgage, with interest thereon at 4.75% per annum and all legal costs, charges, and expenses, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sum or sums which may be paid by the undersigned, necessary to protect its interest in the premises. Which said premises are described as follows: All that certain piece or parcel of land, including any and all structures, and homes, manufactured or otherwise, located thereon, situated in the Township of Irving, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and described as follows, to wit: Lot 10, Prairie Acres, according to the plat thereof in Liber 6 of Plats, Page 39. During the six (6) months immediately following the sale, the property may be redeemed, except that in the event that the property is determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241a, the property may be redeemed during 30 days immediately following the sale. Pursuant to MCLA 600.3278, the mortgagor(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 8/9/2012 BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO BAC HOME LOANS SERVICING, LP FKA COUNTRYWIDE HOME LOANS SERVICING, LP Mortgagee FABRIZIO & BROOK, P.C. Attorney for BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO BAC HOME LOANS SERVICING, LP FKA COUNTRYWIDE HOME LOANS SERVICING, LP 888 W. Big Beaver, Suite 800 Troy, Ml 48084 248-362-2600 77570071 BOA FNMA Tonnemacher (08-09)(08-30) STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-26165 DE Estate of RUTH ELAINE DAUGHERTY Deceased. Date of Birth: May 11, 1943. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, RUTH ELAINE DAUGHERTY, died July 10, 2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Fern E. Seese, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court Street, Hastings, MI 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: August 8, 2012 McShane & Bowie, PLC Ben A. Fowler P28137 99 Monroe Avenue, NW Suite 1100 Grand Rapids, MI 49503 (616) 732-5000 Fern E. Seese 7489 Pratt Lake Road Alto, MI 49302 (616) 868-6343 77570183 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-26157-DE Estate of PAMELA SUE PATTEN. Date of birth: 4/8/1952. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, PAMELA SUE PATTEN, who lived at 635 W. HIGH STREET, HASTINGS, MICHIGAN died 7/10/2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to KORI M. ZIMMERMAN, named personal representative, or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. COURT STREET, HASTINGS, MI 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 8-6-12 JAMES J. GOULOOZE P44497 137 W. STATE STREET HASTINGS, MI 49058 269-945-2255 KORI M. ZIMMERMAN 1021 S. JEFFERSON STREET HASTINGS, MI 49058 269-945-3825 77570105 Case No. 12-141-CH CIRCUIT COURT SALE In pursuance and by virtue of a Judgment of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on the 17th day of July A.D., 2012 in a certain cause therein pending, wherein THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-9 was the Plaintiff and Teresa Herlein and Duane T. Herlein were the Defendants. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that I shall sell at public auction to the highest bidder, at public venue, at the Barry County Courthouse (that being the place of holding the Circuit Court for said County), on the 27th day of September A.D., 2012 at 1 o’clock in the forenoon, Eastern Standard Time, the following described property, viz: All certain piece or parcel of land situated in the Township of Thornapple, County of Barry and State of Michigan, described as follows: Lot 8, Near Lane Estates No. 1, as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats, Page 7, Barry County Records Tax ID: 14-140-0008-00 Commonly known as: 12942 Near Lane, Caledonia, MI 49316 This property may be redeemed during the six (6) months following the sale. Dated: August 9, 2012 Mark Sheldon Deputy Sheriff Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Ronald S. Glaser (P46986) Attorneys for Plaintiff 43252 Woodward Ave., Suite 180 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 (248) 335-9200 (08-09)(09-20) 77570085 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Allan Snyder and Kathleen Snyder husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, Mortgagee, dated June 30, 2008, and recorded on July 10, 2008 in instrument 200807100007074, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Four Thousand Four Hundred Twenty-Seven and 27/100 Dollars ($64,427.27). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 23, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North one-half of Lots 607 and 608 of the City of Hastings, according to the plat thereof The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #407031F01 77569518 (07-26)(08-16) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Betty A May A Single Woman, original mortgagor(s), to National City Mortgage Services Co, Mortgagee, dated July 15, 2004, and recorded on July 16, 2004 in instrument 1130923, in Barry county records, Michigan, and assigned by mesne assignments to PNC Bank, National Association as assignee, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Forty-Six Thousand Forty-Two and 43/100 Dollars ($46,042.43). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 23, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 66 of Steven's Wooded Acres, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 4 or Plats, Page 31 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: July 26, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #394409F02 77569631 (07-26)(08-16) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Mark C. Penrod, a married man, original mortgagor(s), to Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Mortgagee, dated May 28, 2008, and recorded on May 30, 2008 in instrument 20080530-0005733, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Nineteen Thousand Four Hundred and 76/100 Dollars ($19,400.76). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on September 6, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 6, Block 11, H.J. Kentfield's Addition, according to the plat thereof recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 9 of Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #347961F02 77560047 (08-09)(08-30) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Steven F Meyers, a married man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated December 6, 2007, and recorded on December 10, 2007 in instrument 200712100005034, and modified by agreement dated May 4, 2010, and recorded on June 25, 2010 in instrument 201006250006087, and assigned by said Mortgagee to MidFirst Bank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Five Thousand Three Hundred Twenty-Eight and 14/100 Dollars ($75,328.14). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 30, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North 1/2 of Lot 1099 of the City, formerly Village of Hastings according to the recorded Plat thereof recorded in Liber A, Page 1 of Barry County Records and the West 4 rods to Lot 3, Block 20 Eastern Addition according to the Plat thereof recorded in Liber A of Plats, Page 2 of Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 2, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #402824F01 77569801 (08-02)(08-23) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF A MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on April 11, 2006, by Ronald A. Jones and Sally J. Jones, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, given by them to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on April 24, 2006, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 1163538, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank by an Assignment of Mortgage, recorded on October 12, 2010, in Instrument Number 201010120009483, which mortgage was modified by a Loan Modification Agreement recorded October 12, 2010, in Instrument Number 201010120009482, Barry County Records, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Six Thousand Eight and 80/100 Dollars ($126,008.80); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, September 13, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE CITY OF HASTINGS, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: The North half of Lots 2 and 3, Block 8, Daniel Strikers Addition to the City (formerly Village) of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof. Commonly known as: 825 N. East Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 Parcel Number: 08-55-095-053-00 The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: August 2, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933 (517) 37177570064 8253 (08-09)(08-30) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Nicholas S. Pifer and Tina M. Pifer, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 21, 2004, and recorded on June 21, 2004 in instrument 1129582, and modified by Affidavit or Order received by and recorded, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Six Thousand Two Hundred Twenty-Seven and 06/100 Dollars ($66,227.06). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on September 6, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Section 13, Town 1 North, Range 8 West, part of the Southwest 1/4, Commencing at the Northeast corner of the Southwest 1/4; thence West 793 feet to the point of beginning; thence South 200 feet; thence West 207 feet; thence North 200 feet; thence East 207 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #105480F02 77570076 (08-09)(08-30) NOTICE TO CREDITORS Trust In the matter of THE ROBERT AND MARILYN HAYWOOD TRUST DATED AUGUST 11, 1995. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, ROBERT HAYWOOD, who lived at 112 COATS GROVE ROAD, HASTINGS, MI 49058 died August 6, 2012 leaving a certain trust under the name of THE ROBERT AND MARILYN HAYWOOD TRUST DATED AUGUST 11, 1995, wherein the decedent was the Settlor. LYNN BROWNELL was named as the trustee to serve at the time of or as a result of the decedent’s death. Creditors of the decedent and of the trust are notified that all claims against the decedent or against the trust will be forever barred unless presented to LYNN BROWNELL the named trustee at P.O. BOX 91, Fall City, WA 98024 within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: August 9, 2012 DAVID H. TRIPP 206 S. BROADWAY HASTINGS, MI 49058 269/945-9585 LYNN BROWNELL PO BOX 91 77570186 Fall City, WA 98024 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Tony Astuccio a single man, original mortgagor(s), to ABN AMRO Mortgage Group, Inc., Mortgagee, dated October 3, 2002, and recorded on November 7, 2002 in instrument 1091196, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Six Thousand Nine Hundred Twelve and 79/100 Dollars ($66,912.79). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on September 13, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 17, Hilltop Estates, according to the recorded plat thereof as recorded in Lbier 5 of Plats Page 74, Barry County Records The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 16, 2012 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #392640F01 77570194 (08-16)(09-06) SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by JAY N. SCOTT, A MARRIED MAN and JEROME MEEHAN, A MARRIED MAN, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated December 2, 2005, and recorded on December 16, 2005, in Document No. 1157842, and re-recorded on June 21, 2011 in Document No./Liber 201106210006025, on Page 1, and modified, recorded December 29, 2010, in Document No. 201012290012081, and assigned by said mortgagee to Flagstar Bank, FSB, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Nineteen Thousand Eight Hundred Fifty-Five Dollars and Seventy Cents ($119,855.70), including interest at 4.250% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on September 6, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE SOUTH LINE OF SECTION 2, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 7 WEST, NORTH 89 DEGREES 16 MINUTES 39 SECONDS WEST 207.24 FEET FROM THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF SAID SECTION, THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES 16 MINUTES 39 SECONDS WEST 416.95 FEET, THENCE NORTH 01 DEGREES 15 MINUTES 21 SECONDS WEST 351.06 FEET, THENCE SOUTH 89 DEGREES 09 MINUTES 32 SECONDS EAST 629.73 FEET, THENCE SOUTH 00 DEGREES 21 MINUTES 23 SECONDS EAST 42.32 FEET, THENCE SOUTH 33 DEGREES 58 MINUTES 35 SECONDS WEST 367.39 FEET TO POINT OF BEGINNING. SUBJECT TO EASEMENTS FOR STATE HIGHWAY. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Flagstar Bank, FSB Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 FSB.004393 FHA (08-09)(08-30) 77570100 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 16, 2012 — Page 13 Chad Curtis arraigned on additional criminal sexual conduct charges Investigation into charges of alleged criminal sexual conduct involving teenage girls against former Major League Baseball player and Lakewood Public Schools substitute teacher/volunteer Chad Curtis has uncovered an alleged third victim. Curtis, who was originally bound over June 22 to circuit court on two charges of criminal sexual conduct, second degree, one count of criminal sexual conduct, third degree, and two charges of criminal sexual conduct, fourth degree, was arraigned on Monday on an additional count of criminal sexual conduct, second degree when an additional witness came forward. Bond was set at $100,000 and Curtis is currently scheduled for a preliminary examination hearing Aug. 22 on the additional charge. According to the Associated Press, defense lawyer David Dodge, Sr., will argue that the new charge be dismissed. Dodge says that Curtis denies any criminal wrongdoing. Chad Curtis Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 For Sale For Rent Business Services AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 OFFICE SPACE for rent, 750 sq.ft. at 207 E. Mill Street. Private parking. (269)9488463. BASEMENT WATERPROOFING: PROFESSIONAL BASEMENT SERVICES waterproofing, crack repair, mold remediation. Local/licensed. Free estimates. (517)290-5556. CENTRAL BOILER ECLASSIC- Outdoor Wood Furnace. Less time, less mess. Fewer emissions. EPA qualified. 97% efficient. Sale Great summer sale. SOS your “Stocking Dealer” Dutton. MI (616)554-8669 or (6126)915-5061. TOTAL WOOD HEAT. Safe, clean, efficient and comfortable Outdoor Wood Furnace from Central Boiler. D-2 Outdoor Wood Boilers. (616)877-4081. Estate Sale ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. Antiques Garage Sale 4 FAMILY GARAGE sale, 505 Terry Lane, Hastings. August 16th-17th-18th from 9am-5pm. Clothes, desks, tables, toddler beds, toys and more. MULTI-FAMILY GARAGE SALE: 522 Terry Lane, August 17th-19th, 9am-5pm. Back-to-School clothes (American Eagle, Hollister, Aero) for girls, women & men; nice patio set, Stampin-Up & scrap booking supplies, inflatable water slide, bike, games and lots of misc. household items. BOOKKEEPING SERVICES Personal * Self-Employed * Small Business Payroll * Billing Accounts Receivable * Accounts Payable General Ledger Weekly * Monthly * Quarterly * Annually Call today! (269)420-5714 Help Wanted 25 DRIVER TRAINEES Needed NOW! Become a driver for Schneider National! Earn $750 per week! Automotive No experience needed! 2003 CADILLAC ESCA- Local CDL Training! LADE: loaded 85,000mi. Job ready in 15 days! 20”/wheels, 6 disc CD play- 1-877-649-2697. er, Boise System, leather heated seats front & back. Recreation $15,500. (269)945-5571 2008 FLHX STREET glide RICK TAYLOR’S DETAIL H.D. Detachable accessories, WORKS. The only professio- new stereo with CD, 16k nal detail service. Call miles, $17,500, (269)945-5571. ALLEGAN ANTIQUE MARKET: Sunday, August 26th. 400 exhibitors, rain or shine. 8:00am-4:00pm. Located at the fairgrounds right in Allegan, MI. $4.00 admis- (269)948-0958. sion. NO PETS. WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are inLost & Found terested in leasing acreage For Rent LOST KITTEN: female, for this years deer season. 3 BEDROOM 2 bath home. name is Katniss. White legs, Call (269)795-3049 back, 269-506-2599. fully furnished. No pets, no gray smoking. Delton Schools on Owners anxious! Lawn & Garden Wall Lake, September thru AQUATIC PLANTS: OUR June. $800 per month plus National Ads Lotus & Water Lilies are utilities. (517)749-1851 ATTN: LOCAL PEOPLE ready! Also Koi & Goldfish, 3 BEDROOM HOUSE NES- needed to work from home pumps, filters & pond sup$500-$4500 per plies. APOLS WATER TLED in nature. Serene set- online. ting, rural Delton. 2 baths month. Please call 1-888-672- GARDENS, 9340 Kalamazoo, Caledonia MI. (616)698kitchen, dining area, living 4954. 1030 M-F 9:00-5:30, Sat 9:00room, garage, $850/month. THIS PUBLICATION 2:00. Troff & Denning (269)343DOES NOT KNOWINGLY 0150 accept advertising which is PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: deceptive, fraudulent or All real estate advertising in this newsmight otherwise violate law paper is subject to the Fair Housing Act or accepted standards of and the Michigan Civil Rights Act taste. However, this publicawhich collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or tion does not warrant or discrimination based on race, color, religuarantee the accuracy of gion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or any advertisement, nor the an intention to make any such preferquality of goods or services ence, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under advertised. Readers are cauthe age of 18 living with parents or legal tioned to thoroughly investicustodians, pregnant women and people gate all claims made in any securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly advertisements, and to use accept any advertising for real estate good judgment and reasonawhich is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all ble care, particularly when dwellings advertised in this newspaper dealing with persons unare available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the known to you ask for money Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. in advance of delivery of The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. goods or services advertised. POLICE BEAT Loud exhaust gives away underage drinker had been evicted and moved away July 31. When contacted, the landlord did not have a forwarding address for the suspect. Until the suspect is located, the case is closed. Hastings officers stopped a car for having a loud exhaust system Aug. 6 on North Monroe Street. The driver of the red Geo pulled into a driveway. Officers determined the 19-year-old Hastings man have been consuming intoxicants. He was asked to perform agility tests when he admitted to having one Corona beer while at a friend’s home earlier. After attempting the tests, the driver admitted to having three 12-ounce Corona beers. A portable test revealed a .106 percent blood alcohol level. The driver was arrested for operating while intoxicated and transported to the county jail without further incident. Use of dock leads to threat with gun Driver has playing on her mind A Hastings Police officer at a stoplight in the construction area on North Broadway near Woodlawn Avenue Aug. 2 observed a vehicle several cars behind him as it drove between construction barrels and into a gas station. The vehicle failed to slow or stop at the station, instead driving through the parking lot and out onto Woodlawn, bypassing the stopped cars and the stoplight. As the emergency vehicle’s lights were activated, the car drove into a parking space at Bob King Park. The 25-year old Hastings driver told the officer she was in a hurry to get her children to the park to play. Three toddlers were in the back seat in car seats. Officers learned the woman’s driver license was suspended. An adult passenger was properly licensed to drive. The driver was released with her passenger as the driver, but was warned the next time she was stopped she would go to jail. Motorcycle shows inclination to recline Hastings officers were dispatched Aug. 1 to a possible motorcycle accident near State Road and North Broadway. Police determined the motorcycle operator had “dropped” his cycle at Broadway and Apple Street and then dropped it again at Broadway and State Road. A witness said there had been no crash, and the motorcycle operator simply allowed the cycle to fall onto its side on two occasions. After officers spoke with the 57-year-old Hastings driver, he said he tried to turn his bike and it just fell over. Investigation showed the driver did not have a license, and the registration plate on the bike belonged to another vehicle. EMS was called to the scene to examine the cyclist, who was then air-lifted to a Grand Rapids hospital where his condition is unknown. A search of the cycle prior to impoundment revealed an open bottle of liquor in the saddlebag. Charges have been authorized for the license violation, no insurance and open intoxicants. The investigation is continuing. Rocker stolen, porch becomes entree Barry County Sheriff Deputies were called to a home on South Marsh Road July 28 for reported malicious destruction of property. The complainant told deputies her family had gone to a funeral, and when they returned, the front porch of their home was smeared with barbecued chicken, and dog food was dumped all over the steps. Three flower pots on the porch also had been broken. The woman then noticed her antique rocking chair was missing from the porch. The home owner suspected her neighbor with whom she had been having an ongoing feud. When deputies tried to contact the neighbor, she would not respond. Deputies noticed a shade being pulled down as they were asking the woman to answer her door. Officers learned Aug. 1 that the neighbor Three deputies responded to a home on Wall Lake Drive near Delton July 29 in reference to a man with a handgun. A witness reported a man had pointed a Glock pistol at the belly of another man. Deputies made contact with the accused 54-year-old Delton man. The man reportedly smelled strongly of intoxicants. He told deputies that use of a dock on the lake had been the source of an argument, a dock he allegedly had a legal right to use. The Delton man said he felt threatened by the other man and said, “I’ve got a .44 with your name on it” and “I’ll put a ... hole in you that your can see daylight through.” When asked about the gun, he said he did not own a handgun and just wanted to scare the man. When the accused man wanted to go inside his house for a cigarette, he invited deputies to escort him. Inside, deputies noticed a black and brown pistol on top of a television. When asked about it, the subject replied, “It’s just a Daisy BB gun.” Deputies secured the gun and asked the man if he had used it in his argument with the other man. He denied doing so. Based on his slurred speech and the strong odor of alcohol, deputies asked the man to take a Breathalyzer test. The man said he was on probation and would not submit to the test. A felonious assault investigation is still open, and the man’s probation officer was contacted. deputies the couple had been at her sister’s earlier in the day having a couple of drinks. She also said she has a physical condition that sometimes makes her shake uncontrollably, and it angers her husband. Allegedly, during the shaking episodes, her husband becomes physically abusive. On their way home from her sister’s, the woman had an episode that made her unable to walk from the car to the house. Her husband allegedly threw her over his shoulder and carried her inside the house, and on the way upstairs swung her back and forth, hitting her head against the walls and a door. She told deputies once she was upstairs, her husband threw her onto the floor, punched her several times and choked her with his hands. He allegedly then stood on her throat and threatened to get a can of gasoline and burn them both to death. After regaining control, she said she called her parents. When her parents arrived, they gathered the couple’s children and called 911. The husband was on his back, passed out in the living room when authorities arrived. When deputies awakened the man, he punched and kicked. The suspect kneed a deputy in the groin twice and the other deputy used a Taser once on the man’s chest and once on his back to gain compliance. Unable to restrain the man, the deputy kneed the suspect twice in the ribs. He was restrained and handcuffed, then informed he was under arrest for assaulting his wife and two deputies. When questioned at the jail, the man said he had slapped his wife and stepped on her chest, but denied the other accusations. Deputies took photos of the woman’s injuries. The woman went to the hospital where she complained of hearing difficulty in her left ear and soreness in her chest. A report has been forwarded to the prosecutor’s office. TV content starts altercation Woman is isolated and caged Hastings Police were called to a home in the 700 block of East Mill Street July 31 for a possible domestic assault. Officers spoke with a 24-year-old woman who said she and her husband had been arguing, and it had been getting more heated. She said her husband was watching material on TV she felt was inappropriate, and a loud argument followed. At one point, she said she had been assaulted. The husband denied any physical assault. Based on the statements given, 23year-old Hastings man was arrested. Also located in the home was an amount of suspected marijuana, which was confiscated. Three deputies responded July 28 to a reported domestic assault in progress at a home on South Whitmore Road. Deputies found a woman on a back deck using a telephone, upset and crying. She told deputies nothing had really happened, but she “got hit in the tummy and got scared,” so she called 911. She told deputies she has been living with a 48-year-old Hastings man for five months and he will not let her see family and friends. She said the man has even put a gate at the end of the driveway with barbed wire. That day’s incident, she said, arose from her daughter visiting while the man was not at home. Later, while she was in the kitchen making soup, the man allegedly “shoved” her in the abdomen. She said the man became more angry and she became frightened, calling 911. When she called, the man calmed down. She told deputies it was time to leave the relationship. When questioned, the man said he would never intentionally hurt the woman. He was arrested for assault and battery. A portable breath test registered .21 percent blood alcohol level and the woman’s registered .16 percent. A report has been turned over to the prosecutor’s office for review. Converter may be catalyst for more thefts Deputies responded Aug. 7 to a woman’s call about a catalytic converter stolen from her 2004 Chevy Trailblazer. The woman told deputies she had parked the vehicle on M-37 near Garbow Road July 25 and attached a ‘for sale’ sign. When she checked on the Trailblazer July 27 and started the vehicle, she said the engine was very loud. When she looked underneath her car, the catalytic converter was missing. Other converters reportedly have be stolen recently, but the suspect in those thefts was in jail at the time of this theft. Husband enraged by wife’s medical condition A woman called the Barry County Sheriff’s Department July 15 in reference to her 27-year-old husband assaulting her. When deputies arrived at the Woodland Road residence, the woman was in the driveway sitting with her father in his truck. She was crying, and deputies reported her to have visible swelling of her left eye and jaw, with redness around her neck and chest area and bruising of her arms. She also spoke with a raspy voice, deputies noted. She told Neighbors extinguish roadside fire A Barry County Deputy was called Aug. 8 to Tanner Lake Road for a reported fire on the roadside. Homeowners were walking their driveway to pick up mail when they noticed a strong odor and then saw a small fire on the road. The two went to the fire, which was about a foot in diameter, and one of them stomped out the fire. The deputy determined the fire may have been a “onepot” methamphetamine laboratory. Michigan State Police were called in to evaluate the findings. The trooper then called the drug and lab disposal unit to clean the area. Deputies noticed a 20-ounce plastic bottle with a white substance in the bottom and multiple lithium batteries. Deputies advised the person who extinguished the fire to dispose of his shoes properly, and recommended medical treatment for both of them. There are no suspects in the case. 77564784 See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits �Page 14 — Thursday, August 16, 2012 — The Hastings Banner TK tennis program shows growth at start of fall Thornapple Kellogg’s Logan VanPutten hits a forehand return back at Otsego’s Riese Bierlein during their match at the Thornapple Kellogg Invitational Wednesday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Lakewood’s Meet the Team night planned for August 20 Trojan second singles player Justin Bergstrom sends a shot back at Pennfield’s Dryden Lachmce during their match for third place at the TK Invitational Wednesday afternoon in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) They were the only Trojans to win their opening match. TK’s other two victories were default victories at third and fourth doubles. Pennfield was a couple players short of a full line-up. The Trojans got a few good singles performances from its inexperienced group at the top of the line-up. First time first singles player Travis Hemick pushed Pennfield’s Evan Thomas in the match for third, falling 6-2, 63. At second singles, TK’s Justin Bergstrom closed out the tournament with a super tiebreaker against Pennfield’s Dryden Lachmce, falling in the match for third 7-6 (6), 2-6, (106). Freshman third singles player Logan VanPutten played a good match in a 7-5, 6-3 loss against Pennfield’s Logan Mir to start the day, then had a tough time with the blazing serve of Otsego’s Riese Bierlein in the match for third place, falling 6-1, 6-0. “He’s a freshman, and he hadn’t seen a serve like that until about an hour ago,” Rosenberg said. “He’s learning though. He really shortened up his swing, which has allowed him to get to the ball.” Otsego had the day’s top player. Luke Ford won the first singles flight, topping Comstock Park’s Max Bent 6-1, 6-0 in the championship match. Otsego’s other champion was Ryan Britain at fourth singles. Comstock Park had Mitch Saum win the second singles flight and Nolan Rossman take the championship at third singles, besting Pennfield’s Mir 6-1, 6-0 in the final. Mir was the top finisher on the day for Pennfield. Comstock Park swept the four doubles flights. Tyler Fink and Dylan Fink took the first singles flight. Gabe Lynn and Matt Trojan first singles player Travis Hemick leaps up to hit a bouncing ball during his match with Pennfield’s Evan Thomas Thursday at the TK Invitational. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Benjamin won at third doubles. Jacob Brennan and Andrew Novak took the fourth doubles title. The Trojans don’t compete again until Tuesday when they head to the Hamilton Invitational. The Lakewood High School athletic department will host Meet the Team for its fall sports teams on Monday, Aug. 20, at 7 p.m. in the new high school gymnasium. Lakewood Athletic Director, William Barker, will be speaking on several key issues regarding the Lakewood High School athletic programs and Lakewood athletes. The athletic office will be selling passes, signing individuals up to work six events to earn one free pass for the 2012-13 school year, and accepting payment of the $155 participation fee starting at 6:30 p.m. in the gym. Pass prices are as follows for the school year: Family pass: $175.00; Couple pass: $100.00; Single Adult pass: $75.00; and Student pass: $25.00. These passes allow you entry into any Lakewood home sporting event for the entire school year. Student Activity passes will be sold for $40. These passes will allow a high school student to attend any Lakewood home sporting event and will gain them entry into the Homecoming and Winterfest dances along with two other dances throughout the school year that will be announced at a later date. Following Meet the Team, each coach will meet with their players and parents and go over his/her expectations for the season such as practice and game policies, transportation policy, and any extras. They will also answer any questions or concerns parents may have. All up-to-date sports schedules are available at www.lakewoodps.org under the high school athletic tab. Those with any questions you may call the athletic office at 616-374-0211, or contact the office through email at barkerb@lake- 77570117 TYDEN PARK • woodps.org or spetoskeyl@lakewoodps.org. The athletic department is in need of volunteer workers for the 2012-13 sport seasons. Those who are able to help out are asked please contact the office. Viking Scramble will be Friday at Centennial Acres The Lakewood High School boys’ and girls’ golf programs will host their 9th Annual Viking Golf Scramble fundraiser at Centennial Acres Golf Course Friday, Aug. 17. The event will tee-off with a shotgun start at 10 a.m. The cost to participate is $240 for a fourplayer team. Tee Box Sponsor signs are available for $50. Contact Lakewood varsity golf coach Carl Kutch at 269-953-3639 or by email at crkutch@yahoo.com for more information. “We are hoping to see many alumni of Lakewood golf teams as well as past and present friends, family and supporters of the Lakewood golf programs,” Kutch said. Prizes will be awarded to the first and second place teams as well as to winners of closest to the pin and longest drive in the fairway competitions. There will also be raffle prizes. SATURDAY AUG. 25TH Stay informed on local events... Subscribe to The BANNER! Call... 945-9554 77570120 77570114 $ COST… 25 per team of 3 or 4 players Entries must be to the Chamber by Friday, Aug. 17th CHECK IN… 8:30 AM Make checks payable to Hastings Summerfest 2012 Pick up T-shirts at this time TIP OFF… 9:30 AM Boys & Girls (Ages 12-14) Team Name ____________________ Boys & Girls (Ages 15-17) Men & Women (Ages 18-25) Men & Women (Ages 26 & up) Age brackets subject to change based on participation Team Captain___________________________________ Age _______ Send Entries to… Phone # __________________________ Team Members 77569647 77570111 by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Three of the four agreed, it was the closest match they’d ever played. In one of the few super tie-breakers, played in place of a third set at Wednesday’s Thornapple Kellogg Invitational, the Pennfield duo of Jacob Yeager and Jacob Smith edged Thornapple Kellogg’s first doubles team of Nate Ryfiak and Ryan Lowery 61, 4-6, (11-9). Lowery was the only dissenter. He said he’d played a challenge match Tuesday that was even tighter than that. That’s something the Trojan varsity boys’ tennis team has had a few more of this year challenge matches. “We’ve had a good turnout,” said secondyear TK boys’ head coach Steve Rosenberg. “Last year we started with seven kids. I’ve got 14 right now. I’ve only got two seniors. Hopefully, these kids stay interested.” It takes a dozen players to fill a varsity lineup. The Thornapple Kellogg and Pennfield boys were close throughout the four-team tournament, and ended the day in a tie for third place with 12 points each. Comstock Park took the day’s championship with 30 points, winning six of the eight flights. Otsego won the two flights Comstock Park didn’t, and finished second with 24 points. The top finish for the host Trojans was at second doubles, where the team of Levi Ryfiak and Braedon Halle scored a 6-2, 6-1 win over Pennfield’s Ben Stephens and Sam Stover to start the day. That Trojan team then fell in the championship match, 6-0, 6-0 to Comstock Park’s Will Douma and Ryan Schall. 77570108 Age Age ___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________ Please fill out form completely TYDEN PARK • Barry County Chamber of Commerce 221 W. State Street Hastings, MI 49058 Questions ??… Call (269) 948-3025 SATURDAY AUG. 25TH �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 16, 2012 — Page 15 Marines push the Panthers at football practice by Brett Bremer Sports Editor After some time in the rain and the fading daylight with the Marines, the Delton Kellogg High School football players were ready to go back to two-a-day work outs with their coaches. The Delton Kellogg football program had the privilege of working with area Marine Corps during their second week of practices, last week. Marine Sgt. Gino Tristan and a team of Marine volunteers led a rigorous combat fitness training. The football players were asked to “military press” a 35-pound ammo can over their heads. Next they completed an obstacle course including dragging and then carrying one of their teammates in a “fireman’s carry” over their shoulders. The last leg of the course was to carry two 35-pound ammo cans, one in each hand. “They really wanted to go back to our regular conditioning,” Delton Kellogg varsity football coach Ryan Bates said of his players. “A lot of our kids were amazed at the fact there was a time limit of 2:14. Our kids were getting it in three or three and a half minutes. We only had three kids that were close to the 2:14 time limit. They were amazed our armed servicemen do this in uniform and boots not in athletic equipment and cleats. They were amazed at the rigorous training our armed services go through. This isn’t something they do once a year. The Marine Corps does this regularly with its Marines.” Sgt. Tristan is a recruiter in the area, and took part in the flag raising ceremony before the first home varsity football game of the season last fall, something he plans to do again this season. The Panthers invited all area veterans and current servicemen and women to take part in pregame festivities before the first home game a year ago, having them stand with the team on the field during the National Anthem, and plan to make it an annual tradition. Bates said that none of his players gave-up throughout the training, even a 75-pound freshman lugging two ammo cans weighing 70-pounds total themselves. The Panthers hope to carry the conditioning they received Friday, as well as the message of brotherhood, into the season with them. Delton Kellogg’s varsity football team opens the year against Constantine at Waldo Stadium in Kalamazoo Aug. 25 at 10 a.m. as part of the annual KVA Classic. Delton’s first home football game will be Friday, Sept. 7, against Hackett Catholic Central. Marine Sgt. Gino Tristan looks on as the Panthers take part in a Marine Corps Challenge Friday. Delton Kellogg players work their way through the Marine Corps Challenge during the end of their two-a-day practice session Friday evening. The Marines didn’t just beat up the Panthers. They built them back up, and shared their message of brotherhood. Delton Kellogg has a veteran on staff, Mike Powell. “Sgt. Tristan told them about how coach Powell and he are still brothers, even though coach Powell is out of the Marine corps. He’s still a Marine and will always be a Marine. That brotherhood lasts for a lifetime,” Bates said. Delton Kellogg’s Cody Reed works to complete the task of carrying two 35pound ammo cases through the obstacle course Friday. Hoche-Mong and Lake Odessa man win the Mendocino Rally Sign up now for Summerfest sports It is time for those interested in participating in the many sporting opportunities during the annual Hastings Summerfest to sign-up for their respective activities. Summerfest will be held the weekend of August 24-26. The annual 10K-5K runs will be held Aug. 25, beginning at 8:30 a.m. Those who enter by Aug. 17 will pay a $20 entry fee. The cost is $25 after that. Registration can be done online at www.active.com. A 5K walk will also begin at 8:30 a.m. Contact Jamie VerStrate for more information at 269-9483139. A Fun Run will also be held Aug. 25, beginning at the Hastings Middle School parking lot at 9:45 a.m. There is no charge to participate in the Fun Run. The annual Jim Jensen Memorial 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament will be held at Tyden Park Aug. 25. Teams of 3 or 4 plays need to register by Aug. 17. The cost is $25 per team. Registered teams may begin to check in at 8:30 a.m. and the first games will begin no later than 9:30 a.m. Contact Brett Bremer for more information at 269-945-9554, ext. 227. A men’s softball tournament will be held at Fish Hatchery Park. The tournament is open to 12 teams, at a cost of $150 per team. The first teams to sign-up will take the 12 spots. Contact Aaron Snyder for more information at 269-838-8986. A tennis tournament will once again be held at the Hastings High School, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. There will be singles, doubles and mixed doubles competitions in age brackets that include 12-18, 19-35 and 36-and-up. Contact Paty LaJoye for more information at 269-945-9776. The 3-on-3 Soccer Classic will be played at Fish Hatchery Park Aug. 25, beginning at 9 a.m. The tournament is open to all teams, any level of play and in any organization. There will be U8, U10, U12 and U14 boys’ and girls’ divisions as well as a high school girls’ division. There is a max of five players per team. The cost to participate is $80 per team for those who have signed up by Aug. 10. The cost is $100 for those registrations received Aug. 11-15. Mail registrations to Hastings FC, c/o Sarah Smith, 9608 100th St. SE, Alto, MI, 49302. More information is available at www.hastingsfc.com, by calling Smith at 616-706-1151, or through email at hastingsfc49058@yahoo.com. National Wild Turkey Federation JAKES Day returning to Hastings Youths 12 years of age and under and invited to attend the Thornapple Valley Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation’s annual Juniors Acquiring Knowledge, Ethics and Sportsmanship Day, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 18. The event will be held at the Barry Conservation Club, 1180 Cook Road, Hastings. The event includes Safari Club International trailer, trap shooting, laser shooting, Barry County Sheriff Department, archery, BB guns, Michigan Department of Natural Resources, .22 caliber rifles, living history camp, fly-tying demonstration, door prizes and lunch. Chapter T-shirt and raffle tickets will be available for purchase during the event. All events are supervised, but parents or guardians need to accompany children. Participants must either pay a $10 fee or show a current federation membership card. For more information, call Dan Erskine, 616-891-1126, Wendy Osterbaan, 269-7956073, or email jwosterbaan@charter.net. This is the vehicle driven by Michel Hoche-Mong from San Jose, Calif. and co-driver Jimmy Brandt, of Lake Odessa. After the threat of forest fire was contained, the Mendocino Rally in Ukiah, Calif. proceeded on schedule and Michel HocheMong from San Jose, Calif. and co-driver Jimmy Brandt from Lake Odessa took the overall win on Saturday, Aug. 4. Hoche-Mong, in his 1985 Volkswagen GTI, took the early lead and held it all the way to the finish. The pair won three stages of the eight stage co-efficient two-event despite dealing with intermittent fuel pump issues. “On the last stage I let the fuel pump cool down,” said Hoche-Mong, “I turned off the engine and waited for the timing clock tick down. With about 10 seconds to go, I cranked it and it coughed a couple times, but didn’t catch. I reset the key to cycle the pump again, cranked it again. It caught with two seconds to go!” Alex Rademacher from Reno, Nev. and codriver John Steward from San Francisco, Calif. landed second place overall in their 1993 Subaru Impreza trailing first place by just 35 seconds. Rademacher was actually using his rally prepped rally car as a daily vehicle before the Mendocino Rally and had to drive it to the event. “I had some minor issues, but with the help of some fellow rally teams I was able to hotwire my engine fan to keep the car from overheating,” said Rademacher. “Just goes to show how cool the rally spirit is.” Rounding out the podium in third overall, Pete Pollard from Richmond, Calif. and codriver Seri Traver from Oakland, Calif. pilot- ed their 1997 Honda Civic to the finish 53 seconds behind the leader. With Pollard on the podium three two-wheel drive class machines swept all three spots. “(Mendocino Rally) is so twisty and fun that the rally was plenty satisfying with just the four main stages,” Pollard said. “Beautiful area. I hope to be running or working this little event for many years.” Forest fires almost derailed Mendocino Rally’s weekend plans as firefighters helped contain a 375 acre flame raging on Bureau of Land Management property (BLM). Mendocino Rally chairman Jim Robison stayed in contact with BLM officials to quickly decide whether the rally would stay the course. “The fire was on the only road into the event and was moving towards the rally,” said Robison. “It was great working with BLM and they opened the land back to us.” However, Mendocino Rally’s rallycross stages were unfortunately canceled due to the stage being too rough for rally cars. The rallycross roads were not smoothed in time due to BLM heavy equipment diverted to help fight the nearby forest fire. The Mendocino Rally is sanctioned by Rally America, the premiere rally racing organizing body of the Rally America National Championship. The Mendocino Rally is a points paying event for the Southwest Regional Rally Championship, Bilstein Southwest RallyCup Series and the Californian Rally Series. LARGE or small, We Ship It All! Hastings Free Methodist wins title The Hastings Free Methodist Church slow pitch softball team took the championship at the annual Church League Tournament this weekend. The Free Methodist team was made up of Deb Meade, Brian Teed, Jeremy Bishop, Kevin Lancaster, Kaleb Amon, Duane Secord, (back) Larry Howlett, Daniel Secord, Adam Bushre, Mike McComb, Mike Stonehouse, Chris Sweeney, Eric Gillespie, Wayne Meade and Mitchell Philley. 1351 N.Broadway (M-43) Hastings 269.945.9105 OPEN MON.-FRI. 8:30 - 5:30 �Page 16 — Thursday, August 16, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Hastings girls fourth at season’s first tournament Hastings’ Amanda Sarhatt blasts her ball out of the sand and onto the green on number 14 Wednesday at Bedford Valley Golf Club. (Photo by Brett Bremer) by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Play was a little slow Wednesday at Bedford Valley Golf Club. The varsity girls’ golf teams took the course for the first time this season. There is still some working out the kinks to be done after just one week of practice. There is also a new rule that allows coaches to coach between the tee and the green area, which could be slowing things down a bit this fall. The girls did make it through 18 holes though, and the Hastings girls did well, finishing fourth in the 14-team field at the Gull Lake Invitational. Battle Creek Lakeview took the day’s championship with a score of 334. Hackett Catholic Central was second with a 337, fol- The Saxons’ Kylee Nemetz looks on as her drive flies from the tee box on number 14 during Wednesday’s tournament at Bedford Valley Golf Club. (Photo by Brett Bremer) lowed by St. Joseph 380 and Hastings 384. Hastings had two players in the top 12, Lindy Kloosterman fired an 89 to finish in 11th place individually. The team’s top returning player, Kylee Nemetz, shot a 90 to finish in 12th place. The Saxon team also got a 101 from Katie Brown and a 104 from Amanda Sarhatt. Ashley Potter fired a 106 as well for Hastings. “Kylee and Katie are a little disappointed in how they played, but I was satisfied with Governor drops in at Hastings airport Mark Noteboom, manager at the Hastings Airport, had quite a surprise recently when a noted visitor stopped by for a quick ‘hello.’ Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder’s itinerary included a short stop to visit with friends in the area, and the Hastings Airport comfortably accommodated his twin propeller plane and his travel plans. what we did as a team for our first time out,” said Hastings head coach Bruce Krueger. Nemetz, Brown and Kloosterman were regulars in the varsity line-up a year ago, and Sarhatt also saw a lot of time with the varsity as well. “I was pleased, very pleased with Lindy and with Amanda and Ashley. They are some- Hastings’ Katie Brown watches a shot from the side of the fairway fly towards the green on number 14 at Bedford Valley Golf Club Wednesday morning. (Photo by Brett Bremer) what new to varsity. Amanda played some varsity last year, but Ashley is completely new to varsity golf,” Krueger said. Portage Central was fifth in the final team standings with a 391, followed by Gull Lake 399, Marshall 412, Coldwater 413, Unity Christian 437, Vicksburg 445, Portage Northern 454, Plainwell 468, Allegan 477 and Harper Creek 521. Lake Odessa Chamber fishing tournament hooks over 40 kids More than 40 area youth participated in the Lake Odessa Chamber of Commerce Kid’s Fishing Tournament held Saturday, Aug. 4. Goldstar Outdoors II provided gift certificates for winners of longest fish, most fish, and smallest fish in two age groups. Door prizes from Wendell’s Wholesale Bait and K&E Tackle were given to all participants. Winners of the day in the age 3 to 9 category were Jacob Erdody for longest fish at 14 and a half-inches; Griffin Grummet for most fish with 27; and Cayden Stalter with the smallest fish at 2 and three quarter-inches. Winners age 10 to 15 were Jake Jackson for longest fish at 17 and a half-inches; Levi Jackson for most fish with 48; and Aubrey Jackson for smallest fish at three- inches. This year’s event was free because of platinum sponsor Wendells Wholesale Bait & Tackle, according to Marnie Thomas, COC member and organizer. Live bait was donated by Wendell’s and buckets were donated by Cargill Kitchen Solutions for the event. Runners take to the streets for the Friends of the Freeport District Library’s Love for Literacy 5K. Good turnout for 5K race for Friends of Freeport Library Part of this year’s Freeport Homecoming event was a morning 5K run with 47 runners and walkers starting in front of the Freeport library. The event was called the Friends of the Freeport District Library’s Love for Literacy Starter Peter Knight gets set to fire his gun at the beginning of the 5K run in Freeport. 07606858 Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, P.C. 840 Cook Road Hastings, MI 49058 Call Today: 537 W. Main Street Ionia, MI 48846 (269) 945-9520 (800) 596-1005 551 Linn Street Allegan, MI 49010 Visit us online: www.hoc-mi.com 5K. Runners started on State Street and proceeded out of town on Fighter Road. Winners in various divisions were: K-12 Female: Anna Kendall - 27:46:93 K-12 Male: Ben Gingerich - 24:29:19 Women’s: Brenda Gonyou - 24:18:31 Kelly Nicholson – 25:53:00 Men’s : Jake Christiansen – 17:31:83. Eric Doornbos – 17:32:11 All results are posted on the library website at www.freeportdl.michlibrary.org. The proceeds from the event will benefit the library’s 2013 Summer Reading Program. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-08-23.pdf f2a87ca2e3716053beaae6ec6c456c0f PDF Text Text 35th Summerfest will be fun & games Local business celebrates 50 years Saxon and Panther fall sports previewed See Story on Page 2 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 15-19 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 33 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, August 23, 2012 Hope Township completes court-ordered hearing Deliberation continues on murky planning issue by Doug VanderLaan Editor Their discussion of an issue having to do with the controversial use of Head Lake property as a campground could have earned Hope Township Planning Commission members a Scouting merit badge at their regular Aug. 16 meeting. Talk about gray-water discharge and camping permits, safe drinking water standards and fire vehicle access dominated an emotional public hearing and board deliberation attended by a crowd of township residents and lake users who packed the Hope Township hall. The meeting was the third in a series dating back to March 22 when the planning commission approved expanding a 1996 agreement for four recreational vehicles on a 2.1acre private camp off Head Lake Road owned by Elwood Henney and family to allow for six additional RVs. The approval and the expanded use has set off a wasps’ nest of controversy amongst residents and neighbors on adjacent lakes and township property who view the planning commission decision as a precedent that could affect every property owner in the township. “I would hate to have a precedent set where my neighbor can put in 10 trailers,” said Gail Maloney of Little Pine Lake, located behind Head Lake, Thursday. “I hope you step in and protect our future. Think of the rest of us in Hope Township.” Christie Meyer said she knew none of the parties in the dispute but was concerned as a Hope Township resident. “I’m very interested in how this could affect me as a resident of Hope Township,” Meyer told commissioners. “Zoning regulations are in place for a reason. Know that it can impact many of us in the future.” Thursday’s meeting was the continuation of a public hearing that began July 19 and had to be adjourned due to the lateness of the See HEAD LAKE, pg. 3 A packed room at Hope Township Hall Thursday, Aug. 16, hears the township’s planning commission finish a public hearing and then deliberates a controversial use of property at Head Lake. Two-way busing to continue for Hastings athletics by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer The potential risks and liabilities of oneway busing for away sporting events outweigh the projected savings of $7,000 to $9,000 per school year, according to members of the Hastings Area Schools Board of Education. “I think the other thing that needs to be said is that while the liability is a somewhat important issue, it pales by comparison if we have to deal with the loss of a student to a traffic accident,” said Board Trustee Gene Haas during the board’s meeting Monday evening. “That’s what the real cost of this is; and, for seven- or eight-thousand bucks? I don’t think so.” Earlier this year the board discussed insti- tuting one-way busing — the district providing transportation for athletes to away games and sporting events but relying on parents and coaches to provide return transportation, as a means to cut expenses. However, during Monday’s meeting Hastings Athletic Director Mike Goggins questioned whether the board intended to implement the practice. “The budget, as I understand, was adopted with that reduction in it,” said Hastings Area School Superintendent Todd Geerlings. “But, we’re getting ready to book trips for our athletic teams and one of the things was one-way transportation for some of the teams, and he wanted to bring that up and see what the board’s thoughts were on that since there had been some questions about that, although it was officially approved with the adoption of that budget.” “I’m not trying to muddy the waters,” said Goggins. “Because there was quite a bit of discussion about it, and some of the comments about it were that because the savings were $8,000, roughly between $7,000 and $9,000 for limited one-way busing and some of the comments made was, ‘Is this really worth the inconvenience and risk for our kids?’ It felt like it was left kind of hanging to me, and then the budget was passed without any more clarification.” Haas said he believed the board had directed the district’s financial consultant to put the money for two-way busing for sporting events back in the budget before it was approved. “So, it was my presumption that this had The bridge is open After five months and 17 days, the Michigan Avenue bridge in downtown Hastings is again open to traffic. The fourth major bridge at that site since the mid- to late 1800s was due to open at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 22, according to Hastings City Manager Jeff Mansfield. Davis Construction Company of Lansing submitted the lowest bid, $2.3 million for the project, and said before work began March 5 that it anticipated the bridge replacement to be completed by Aug. 30. The opening of the Michigan Avenue bridge is expected to alleviate the traffic on North Broadway due to a concurrent bridge repair project. (Photo by Doug VanderLaan) been done and this was not an issue and we were going to continue with the transportation practice we had in the past,” Haas said. Trustee Dan Patton said he also thought the money had been re-allotted for two-way bus- ing. “I thought, at least for this year, that we See BUSING, pg. 3 Main beach finally reopened at Gun Lake by Fran Faverman Staff Writer After being closed for more than a month during what may be the hottest summer on record in West Michigan, the main day use beach at the Yankee Springs State Park has been reopened, according to Eric Pessell, director of environmental health at the Barry-Eaton District Health Department. The 30-day level of E. coli bacteria has finally dropped to the level that state standards specified in the Michigan Public Health Code consider safe for swimming. However, that does not mean the source of E. coli contamination has been identified and a solution found, he said. In a lengthy interview with the Hastings Banner Tuesday, he discussed the steps taken to identify the source of the contamination and what has been ruled out in an investigation by the park management and the health department. Pessell said despite current public opinion that the source of the problem is the 140 Canada geese in the park, the geese have been ruled out as the source of the contamination. The beach is cleaned daily, he explained, and the long hot and dry summer is a very hostile environment for E. coli. It was too hot and too dry for the bacteria to survive and multiply as they would if the geese were the primary source of contamination. The next consideration was a leak in a sewer line in a channel that serves the campground. Again, investigation of the line found no leaks in the line, and repeated sampling of the area revealed lower levels. So that area was cleared for swimming. Adding to the difficulty in identifying the source, Pessell said, is the absence of plans showing how the system was actually built. There are plans showing how it was supposed to be built but no plans showing how it was actually constructed. Contributing to the difficulty is the practice of not removing old sewer lines when new ones were added. The old lines were often just cut off and left in the ground. “We contacted former employees who told us about lines that did not show up on any plans,” said Pessell. “People actually “We contacted former employees who told us about (sewer) lines that did not show up on any plans. People actually came in and showed us where they were.” Eric Pessell, Barry-Eaton District Health Department came in and showed us where they were.” An area starting at Murphy’s Point — the end on the peninsula on which the state park is located — and moving north to the main beach area contains a sewer line and pump stations that lead to the south of the main beach area. A test performed under the direction of park manager Andru Jevicks showed a loss of 600 gallons of sewage across 1,500 feet of line. The affected area terminates near a disconnected and abandoned water line. According to Pessell, this area when sampled had the greatest number of E. coli. All restrooms and water connections in the area have been shut down. At the moment, this is the area that will be dug up as soon as a backhoe is available. If this is the area where the suspected leak, Pessell believes that either or both the pipe and trench in which the pipe is located may be acting as a conduit to the lake. If the excavation does not provide the answers Pessell is seeking, he vowed he will go on searching until he finds the answer. �Page 2 — Thursday, August 23, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Commissioners take next step on path to animal shelter solution by Doug VanderLaan Editor A years-long debate fraught with white-hot emotion came down to cold, hard numbers Tuesday as the Barry County Board of Commissioners positioned itself to take a final step in the animal control and shelter debate. By a unanimous vote at their committee of the whole meeting, commissioners recommended approval at next week’s official commission meeting of a new animal shelter director position which, with a full benefit package, would pay just under $67,000. Though he provided commissioners a full job description, County Administrator Michael Brown spent most of his presentation time explaining how he arrived at the proposed pay level, an issue of some contention from the public and from commissioners in past meetings. Brown used a county pay grade chart and a classification analysis from Mark Nottley of Municipal Consulting Services LLC to illustrate why the new position should be positioned at Level 9, one of 15 county payment classifications with Level 15 being the highest-compensated position. “The whole idea is to make sure that like positions have similar pay so that a clerk in one department and a clerk in another are consistently compensated,” Brown told commissioners. “This is a very different position with compensation based on differing skills and responsibilities. That’s why we go to Mr. Nottley, because he understands the building blocks of different jobs and how they should be compensated.” Nottley’s study, according to its accompa- nying letter, was based on an analysis of the job’s duties and responsibilities, additional discussion with Brown, and a point-factored review of all classifications using the Rye Job Evaluation Plan. Reaction from commissioners centered on financial issues related to the position’s base salary of $40,743 and $48,862 after four years, to its benefits package, and to its comparative pay level with other counties. “You have to budget for the highest [benefits],” replied Brown to Commissioner Robert Houtman’s query, pointing out that, until the new position is filled, the county can’t determine if it will pay full family coverage or encounter a new hire who opts out of health insurance coverage entirely. Regarding comparison with other counties, Brown told Commissioner Howard Gibson that the last classification analysis was done in 1998 and, because of financial constraints, has not been repeated. “But we’ve kept true to the range that study put us in,” maintained Brown. “Municipal Consultants has always done our classification and, as we’ve bargained with out employee units, we do comparisons with other counties.” Brown added one additional consideration. “This classification is what we want for this position,” pointed out Brown. “If you go to a lower classification, you may get lucky to find someone with the skills to lead — but the job description won’t require that, you’ll be looking for a supervisor’s position. “You’re expecting someone with the skills and abilities to get the job done and not someone who says ‘Tell me what you want done and I’ll do it.’” In other business, the commission: • Heard a public comment request by Middle Lake resident Dr. Larry Blair that the county implement a mute swan management and control program through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources-Wildlife Division. Blair explained that the nonnative, larger and more aggressive mute swans are depriving Michigan’s native trumpeter swans of proper nesting areas, leading to a growing imbalance between the two species. Because the state permits mute swan removal, Blair requested that the board adopt a countywide effort on all public access lakes to reduce the mute swan population with the assistance of the DNR. Reticence to the proposal came from both commissioners and audience members. “It’s desensitizing for children to see this,” said Kay Doyle after learning that the preferred method of removal is by shooting. It’s a violent act to witness.” Commissioners Jeff VanNortwick and Joe Lyons expressed reservations over a county program possibly overruling local residents, especially those on lakes in townships that could take up the issue at that level. • Provided endorsement of the 2013 Annual Implementation Plan presented by Regional 3-B Area Agency on Aging CEO Karla Fales. Though county board approval is not required, Fales explained, endorsement of the proposed plan is. The presentation opportunity also allowed Fales to inform commissioners that, working through the local Commission on Aging, efforts are continuing and being increased to address elder abuse prevention, consistent access to aging-related information and efficient provision of meals through congregate dining and home delivery. Commissioners provided a unanimous endorsement. • Recommended approval at next week’s board of commission meeting the purchase of one walk-through metal detector at a cost not to exceed $4,000 for use in either court building to replace a current one on loan from the state Supreme Court. • Recommended approval of a line-item transfer in the child care expenditure budget to increase family foster care by $40,000 and to decrease institutional care by a similar amount. • Recommended approval of state grant disbursement funds to provide $30,889 for an emergency management coordinator’s salary and benefits. “The money is in Lansing just waiting for a signature,” Emergency Management Coordinator Jim Yarger told commissioners. “They don’t push out the grant agreement until they get the money in hand.” • Approved the $9,350 purchase of a John Deer XUV for the drain commission office, allowing access to drains that cannot be reached by traditional motor vehicle or by walking. The purchase was allowed without approval at next week’s official board of commission meeting because it falls below the $10,000 official board of commission approval limit. • Recommended approval of a temporary planner for the emergency management program at a Grade 7 pay level as suggested by Nottley. The position’s compensation will be covered as part of a federal grant that had been administered by Kalamazoo County on behalf of the 5th Congressional District. Barry County currently uses temporary planner services through the Kalamazoo County office. Kalamazoo County will no longer employ temporary planners who work outside its boundaries, necessitating the move to Barry County and the county’s oversight of its temporary planning activities. • Recommended for approval a budget amendment increasing general fund revenue and expenditure budgets by $1,587,270. Discussion by Brown concerning the amendment and as a lead-in to consideration of the budget for 2013, included that, because of positive movements on building fund balance, capping health insurance costs, adjusting pension compensation from a defined benefit arrangement to a hybrid model, and paying down on some unfunded liabilities, the county may be in position to consider raising its revenue projections. “We’ve minimized our risks,” said Brown. “We’re no longer at a point of making wholesale cuts just to make cuts. You could make cuts only to find at the end of the year that you didn’t have to. This budget starts to hedge our bets.” Commissioner Ben Geiger added his perspective. “This is really a big deal,” said Geiger, in reference to the proposed budget amendment’s paydown on accrued liability in its other post employment benefits fund. “Some commissioners spend their whole career trying to see light at the end of the tunnel with the OPEB.” The next board of commission meeting will be Tuesday, Aug. 28, beginning at 9 a.m. in the commission’s meeting chambers at the Barry County Courthouse. 35th Summerfest will be fun and games Grown men in little vehicles, members of the Battle Creek Shriners Club, will likely again be part of the Summerfest Grand Parade Saturday afternoon. This year’s parade theme is board games. The Tanis Sisters of Caledonia will bring their gospel/bluegrass sound to the Main Stage on Friday at 2 p.m. Brush Ridge will rock the Main Stage at 3:15 p.m. on Friday. 06789203 The city of Hastings will issue its own “Let the Games Begin” proclamation Friday at 10 a.m. to open the 35th annual Summerfest celebration. This year’s three-day festival carries a board game theme highlighted by Saturday’s Summerfest Grand Parade at 12:30 p.m. in which floats will carry board game motifs as they compete for a $150 first place prize to be offered by Fifth Third Bank to the float organization’s favorite charity. There’s also be softball tournament games, a tennis tournament, and a soapbox derby. Summerfest-goers will also have 10K and 5K runs and walks in which to participate or even 3-on-3 soccer or a 3-on-3 basketball tournament or dancing to the music of dozen hot and entertaining bands. Kickoff for the weekend will be at 10 a.m. Friday when early participants will be greeted by the summer aromas of cotton candy, roasted peanuts and a host of concession favorites downtown at the corner of Church and State streets. Trolley ride transportation sponsored by WBCH will begin at 11 a.m. with similar starts each of the three days and rides ending at 6 p.m. The trolley will make stops at the County Courthouse and on the east end of town, near the Hastings Public Library. Arts and crafters will have the green and shaded lawn of the county courthouse on which to browse and buy. The show will run Friday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Summerfest will again offer something for everyone and kids will not want to miss out on a variety of children’s activities at State and Church streets sponsored by the Barry County Chamber of Commerce. Hours Friday will be noon to 7 p.m., from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday. The tennis tournament will toss up opening serves Friday at 5 p.m. with action continuing Saturday beginning at 8 a.m., and Sunday at 10 a.m. at the Hastings High School courts. Softball will again be lighting up the diamonds at Fish Hatchery Park with the tournament beginning at 6:30 p.m. Saturday and, Sweet Grass, shown during a recent performance at the Barry County Commission on Aging, will perform on the Summerfest main stage from 4:15 to 5:15 p.m. Friday, Aug. 24. depending on the number of entered teams picking up again at 9 a.m. Saturday and Sunday. Fish Hatchery Park will also be the setting for the Saturday 3-on-3 soccer tournament to begin at 8:30 a.m. The Jim Jensen 3-on-3 basketball tournament will open with check-in at Tyden Park Saturday at 8:30 a.m. Games will begin at 9:30 a.m. For individual competitors, nothing beats the Summerfest runs. The 10K and 5K runs and walks will stride out from the Middle School at Broadway and Grand streets Saturday at 8:30 a.m. Packet pickup will begin at 6:45 a.m. The popular family-centered, non-competitive Summerfest Fun Run is scheduled for 9:45 a.m., also taking the starting gun at the middle school. Registration is not necessary but donations to the sponsoring Barry County Community Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services will be welcome. All the activity is certain to require replenishment at the Elks Refreshment Tent will again fit the bill. Hot dogs for $1, brats for $3, soft drinks, and brews will headline the Hastings elks Lodge largest fundraiser of the year. The food and drinks comes with entertainment, too. Disc jockey Nick Marble will be rockin’ the neighborhood during the entertainment tent’s hours of 3 p.m. to 1 a.m. Friday. Saturday’s service will begin with food at noon and alcohol sales following the Summerfest Grand Parade. The Elks will be open for business until 1 a.m. Sunday. For an earlier and quieter recharge, there’ll be Saturday’s 8 to 11 a.m. breakfast buffet sponsored by the Hastings Moose Lodge on the corner of South Michigan and Apple streets with the $6 cost going to benefit the Barry County Family Support Center. The Moose Lodge will transition to a half-chicken dinner and cold drink for $8 beginning at noon Saturday and, Sunday for the Summerfest Car Show, burgers and brats. The downtown farmers market will be open from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. For the four-wheeler set, there’ll be plenty on which to rest the eyes. The always-popular Summerfest Car Show is again expected to draw over 300 beauties (cars, too) with the $10 per car entry fee hopefully raising between $4,000 to $5,000 for a variety of charities supported by the Hastings Car Club. Faster movers will be piloting the downward incline of North Hanover between Grand and State streets with the soapbox derby racers. In its second annual appearance, a field of nearly triple the size of last year’s 13 entries will begin race eliminations at 3 p.m. Saturday. The derby will follow Saturday’s Summerfest Grand Parade that will step off at 12:30 p.m. and follow an altered route due to this summer’s road construction. The parade will line up on East State Street then start on Apple Street, turn left on Church Street, and proceed to State Street where it will turn right on Boltwood to its completion. A special children’s parade will follow at 1 p.m. beginning with line up at Boltwood and State Streets. It will march toward downtown where, at 2 p.m., the annual duck race will take place in the Thornapple River at Tyden Park. Raffle tickets at $5 and three for $10 will be offered by the Barry County Tourism Council with top prize for the winning duck paying $250. Second place will pay $100 and third place, $50. And what would an outdoor summer celebration be without music? Main stage entertainment throughout the weekend will include 1960s and 1970s rock and roll, Christian music, bluegrass, jazz, country and more. Sunday will be observed with a 10 a.m. community worship service to be held at Hastings High School by Living Waters Church. Worship leader for the service to be held in the lecture hall will be Randy Stonehill, a Grammy Award nominee, who will also be a featured performer on the main stage Saturday evening. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 23, 2012 — Page 3 HEAD LAKE, continued from page 1 hour. Though the planning commission was able to successfully conclude the public hearing Thursday and direct its attorney and zoning and planning administrator to prepare documents and proposals for consideration at its Sept. 20 meeting, no action was taken. What appeared to some to be progress, only added to the frustration of others wishing for resolution to a particularly vexing dilemma. The special-exception use approved March 22 that allowed the Henney family to place six additional RVs and a portable toilet structure on the property also specified only two weekends per year for the use of the six additional RVs. Planning commission notes, however, state that the applicant verbally requested more time flexibility, and three months was granted. Citing numerous violations of zoning, safety and environment compatibility laws and ordinances, neighboring Head Lake residents Robert and Mary Haak obtained a circuit court order remanding the planning commission to hold supplementary public hearings on the special-use permit before affirming, reversing or modifying the March 22 decision. The Haaks contend, however, that, in a June 13 letter from Township Planning and Zoning Administrator Brian Wegener to Elwood Henney, the six-RV expansion was approved — days before the circuit courtordered supplementary public hearing took place July 19. “How come they seem to go into it with their minds made up?” asked Mary Haak during a telephone interview following last week’s meeting. “The township should be protecting people; these special-use permits should be protecting people. The majority is supposed to rule, but now I’m told we’re dealing with a ‘good ol’ boys club.’ “It’s not just Bob and Mary anymore like it was in March,” she added. “The whole lake, the whole township is saying that they don’t want 10 trailers on one property.” The Haaks and neighboring residents charge that the Henneys have been in violation even with the four trailers that were allowed under the 1996 ruling. A signature petition being filed with the township, the Barry-Eaton District Health Department and the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality states that, among other violations, the Henneys are operating a temporary campground with a proper license, without health department approval, and in violation of DEQ regulations covering toilets and sewage system treatment. Of particular concern to complaining parties is that the required site plan submitted to the township as a handdrawn sketch, is inexact and not drawn to existing use standards. A telephone request made to the Henney family for comment was not returned. Thursday, in following the circuit court order to affirm, reverse or modify their March 22 action, planning commissioners were informed of the implications of adopting any of the three positions and confined discussion to the original special-use application and the filed site plan. “The decision you made in March still stands,” clarified Township Attorney Ken Sparks. “You are now in position to affirm that position, but you will have to provide a better statement of reasons for it. “If you deny, you need to say why or the decision must be to modify. If you deny the application, you must request a new one from the applicant who would not be in position to come back to you within one year.” Requesting confirmation of the one-year re-application requirement, Commissioner Bob Norton sought a middle ground. “Rather than deny the application because we might need additional information, I’d rather work with the applicant to get the additional information we need,” said Norton. He then proposed a discussion outline that would confine deliberations to the application and possible additional information needed and to the site plan itself. “In looking at the site plan at that first meeting [in March], they just wanted additional trailers, and we were trying to set something up for enforcement,” recounted Commissioner Doug Peck. “We were trying to work with that family, but we also never intended at that first meeting to have this blown up into a public campground.” “The original intent of a couple of week- BUSING, continued from page 1 would put that money back in there,” he said. “Liability-wise, I’m not an attorney by any stretch of the imagination, but I struggle with this.” Patton said he was concerned about how parents would be screened to determine whether it was safe for them to transport students other than their own. Goggins said he asked other districts how they handled the situation and they responded, “We pray a lot.” He also said other district representatives said they make students and parents sign waivers, but waivers don’t always hold up in court. Board President Kevin Beck said one-way busing wasn’t much different than parents having to pick athletes up after practice at the school. “For some of them, it’s closer to go from Middleville to their house than it is to go from practice to their house,” he said. “They do have to get that transportation some place. But we’re just saying that we don’t want — it’s the liability.” Trustee Rob Longstreet, an attorney, said he did not see it as a liability issue. “Frankly, this is already happening at every game, at every sport. There are certain parents that are taking their kids home,” he said. “What I see as a problem is the coaches having to sit there and wait to make sure everybody gets a ride home.” “You’re going from a volunteer system to now forcing a kid to find a ride home,” said Patton. “We know there are children in this district whose parents don’t go to away events, maybe because they can’t afford it, I don’t know. But, the only transportation they have to get back is via the bus.” “I’m a staunch believer in prayer; but, we were given free will for a reason,” said Haas. “I think to say, ‘Well, we can save a few bucks by doing this,’ I don’t think that’s responsible.” The board directed Goggins to continue two-way busing and Geerlings to examine the budget to see if it needs to be amended to reflect the continuation of that practice for the 2012-13 school year. In other business, the board: • Approved the personnel report which included notification of the following: Appointments — Miguel ArjonaRodriguez, Community Education and Recreation Center weight room attendant; Laura Batenburg, middle school math teacher; Emily Borden, CERC weight room attendant; Jonathan Cotter, middle school special education teacher; Casey Gergen, Southeastern special education teacher; Lander Glenn, high school English teacher; Matthew Moore, district-wide food service director; Aimee Moscoe, Southeastern fourth grade teacher; Kris Rasmussen, high school English teacher; Kevin Riggs, high school principal; Melany Schwab, CERC weight room attendant; Don Schils; Northeastern principal; William Trujillo, district-wide curriculum and instruction director; Danielle Watson, CERC weight room attendant; Deborah Williamson, Southeastern special education teacher; Aaron Yusten, high school chemistry teacher; 2012-13 fall sports — Gina MacMahon, freshman volleyball coach; Valerie Slaughter, varsity volleyball coach; Scott Zull, junior varsity volleyball coach. Retirements — Mary Rose, instructional assistant; Transfers and reassignments — Kellen Deau, high school art teacher; Kerry Nickel, Northeastern special education teacher; Alisa Willard, Northeastern fifth grade teacher. Leaves of absence — Holly Donnini, Northeastern first grade teacher; Sally Sweet, Northeastern kindergarten teacher; • Accepted a $70,000 anonymous donation to cover athletic pay to play fees for the 201213 school year; a $6,500 donation from Star Elementary PTO to buy iPads for teachers, and $8,500 from Star Elementary PTO to buy Right Fit books for classrooms. • Announced its next monthly work session would be conducted at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 11, in the middle school multi-purpose room, 232 W. Grand St. The next regular meeting of the board will be at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 17, in the multi-purpose room of Northeastern Elementary, 519 E. Grant St. Denny Bibler is one of 14 speakers to address the Hope Township Planning Commission during its public hearing and board meeting last week. ends per year is still there,” replied Norton. “We were trying to bend a little bit, and that’s why we waived conditions.” Discussion then led to consensus to return to the application’s original request for two weekends per year for six additional RVs and 10 trailers but then tripped on how to define a weekend. “The word ‘weekend’ is a little bit slippery,” noted Norton, who proposed it be a five-day period and that the two five-day periods could run consecutively for a total of 10 days per year. Commissioners agreed and directed Sparks and Wegener to draw up language for a proposal that would also include an enforcement system in which applicants would be required to inform Wegener in advance of the sched- uled days. Commissioners then addressed the site plan and, though perplexed by the original handdrawn submission, its lack of being drawn to scale, and complaints of inaccuracies heard from public comment speakers, carefully studied each of the 15 requirements in its ordinance for a submitted site plan. Finding that the temporary nature of the special-use permit to which it just consented made most site plan requirements moot, commissioners did suggest that requirements be made of the applicant to provide a site plan with more specificity in scale, the shape of the property, lot lines, and width of the property at lakeside. Because an amended site plan will require another public hearing, planning commission- ers discussed time requirements that must be met in order to move the discussion forward at its next regular meeting Sept. 20. On the advice of Sparks and Weenier, the applicant must submit the amended site plan by Aug. 29, allowing all interested parties to review it at the township office prior to the Sept. 20 meeting. Once the review period has been fulfilled, notice of the Sept. 20 meeting can be made in compliance with open meetings act requirements. “We have our ordinance to go by, and that’s all we have to go by,” said Planning Commission Chair Roger Pashby. “We can’t go by emotion, and we’ve heard a lot of emotion in these last three meetings. “It’s nothing new. We weathered the gravel mining at Otis Lake and we’ll get by this, too.” Star Elementary named Dept. of Education Reward School by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Star Elementary School in Hastings was recently named a Reward School by the Michigan Department of Education. Reward Schools are the top five percent of the top-to-bottom ranking of all Michigan schools based on criteria such as meeting adequate yearly progress, Michigan Educational Assessment Plan scores and more. The MDE also adds those designated as “Beating the Odds,” schools, and schools in the top 5 percent of schools ranked top to bottom based on improvement criteria, to the Rewards Schools list. Last year, Star was named to the list as a “Beating the Odds” school, a designation for schools that outperform others with similar risk factors and demographic makeup. Star Principal Amy Tebo said she hasn’t receive official notification from the MDE and is not sure of the criteria used to determine Star’s status as a Reward School. “We’re in the 94th percentile, not the 95th so it is likely we are a ‘Beating the Odds,’ school again,” she said. “We won’t know for sure until we receive the letter.” Nevertheless, Tebo said she is proud of her school. “I am so proud of my staff and students and thankful for the support of our parents and the community,” she said. “It really does take a village to raise a child and it is the consistency of our teachers in the classroom and the parents working with students at home that lead to success. I couldn’t be more proud.” Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, P.C. • Kenneth S. Merriman, M.D. • Eric S. Leep, D.O. • James L. Horton, Jr., D.O. • David J. Heeringa, D.O. • Maria Benit, PA-C • Christopher Born, PA-C Osteoporosis is common, serious, and costly — and it can lead to an increased risk of bone fractures, typically in the wrist, hip, and spine. Often called a silent disease because bone loss occurs without symptoms, people may not know that they have osteoporosis until their bones become so weak that a sudden bump or fall causes a fracture. Please join with Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, PC in continuing to honor women this month by helping to raise awareness of osteoporosis and the importance of prevention and early detection in combating this disease. Did You Know? • About 10 million Americans have osteoporosis, and about 34 million more are at risk. • One out of every 2 women and 1 in 4 men aged 50 and older will have an osteoporosis-related fracture in their lifetime. • Twenty-four percent of hip fracture patients age 50 and older die in the year following their fracture. From left to right: James L. Horton, Jr., D.O., Orthopedic Surgeon; David J. While men and women of all ages and ethnicities can develop osteoporosis, certain risk factors are linked to Heeringa, D.O., Orthopedic Surgeon; Eric S. Leep, D.O., Physical Medicine; Kenneth the development of osteoporosis and contribute to an individual’s likelihood of developing the disease. S. Merriman, M.D., Orthopedic Surgeon. • Gender – Women have a greater chance of developing osteoporosis due to less bone tissue and changes that occur due to menopause. • Ethnicity – Caucasian and Asian women are at highest risk. African American and Hispanic women have lower but significant risk. • Age – Older adults have greater risk of osteoporosis because bones become thinner and weaker with age. • Body size – Small, thin-boned women are at greater risk. • Diet – An inadequate intake of calcium and vitamin D over a lifetime makes an individual more prone to bone loss and contributes to the development of osteoporosis. • Lifestyle – An inactive lifestyle or extended bed rest tends to weaken bones. • Family history – Fracture risk may be due, in part, to heredity. • Smoking – Women who smoke have lower levels of estrogen compared with nonsmokers, often go through menopause earlier, and may also absorb less calcium from their diets. • Medication use – Long-term use of certain medications can lead to loss of bone density and fractures. • Alcohol –Those who drink heavily are more prone to bone loss and fracture, because of poor nutrition and increased risk of falling. People with osteoporosis may have several risk factors, while others who develop the disease may have no known risk factors at all. Osteoporosis is a preventable and treatable disease. Early diagnosis and treatment can reduce or prevent fractures. Medicare and other insurance carriers provide coverage of bone mass measurement for certain eligible beneficiaries. This important benefit can aid in the early detection of osteoporosis before fractures happen, provide a precursor to future fractures, and determine the rate of bone loss. For more information on Hastings Orthopedic Clinic or to learn about all of our services, please visit us online at www.hoc-mi.com, scan our QR code below with your mobile device, or contact us directly at (269) 945-9520. Providing Excellence. In the Art of Total Orthopedic Care Physical Medicine and Pain Management Accessible. Comprehensive. 07607447 �Page 4 — Thursday, August 23, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Bob’s Gun and Tackle celebrating 50th anniversary Rooftop garden Silage of a different sort is evidenced by this tree that thrives from within the cylinder confines of a silo. The tree and its unique planter are located between the village of Nashville and Maple Valley High School on the south side of Nashville Highway. The tree has continued to reach for light and now cascades across the top, creating a unique cap to its host home. We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Do you know? Hay, there Do you remember this photo? Do you recognize any of the men in it? Do you know why the photo was taken? Was it a typical hay-baling, barn-filling chore, or was it a special event, such as sending hay to a drought-stricken or otherwise afflicted area? Someone wrote on the back of this photo “L to R Paul Woodman, Gerald McMillen, Marv Kantner.” We do not recognize the handwriting, nor know when it was penned. What can you tell us about this photo? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event to reunite the photos with their original clippings or identify photos that may never have been used. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@j-adgraphics.com; or call 269-945- 9554. Last week’s photo of a group of men from Hastings High School drew no response. met? Have you Feeding masses is second nature Organizing funeral luncheons at St. Rose is almost second nature to Sharon Maurer of Hastings. As the mother of seven grown children, grandmother of 15, and great-grandma of two, Sharon is used to cooking for large groups. “When you have a big family you get used to making a lot of food all the time,” she said. “I’ve been doing funeral luncheons for 25 years; it’s a real ministry for the ladies and me. The ladies who work putting together the luncheons work hard because this is their ministry to help the grieving.” A licensed practical nurse Sharon, 73, began her career at Saint Mary’s Health Care in Grand Rapids and met her husband, Tom, while working at St. Lawrence Hospital in Lansing. “I took care of him in the hospital after he was injured in a farming accident while he was home from college,” she said. “Two years later, we married; we’ve been married 52 years.” Sharon stayed home until her youngest child was 2 years old then returned to work part-time and later full-time as her children entered college. She still works part-time at Thornapple Manor in Hastings. Sharon said she volunteers primarily through her church, but she believes everyone should find a church, group or organization that allows them to give back to their community. “I believe in volunteering,” she said. “I think volunteering should be on everyone’s list; it’s what makes the world go round.” If you could go back in time, where and when would you go? I like where I’m at now; but, I really had a lot of fun in the ’50s and ’60s. I really liked the times, the music and my life — of course I was younger then. And, even though I wasn’t a part of it, I thought the hippie movement was kind of exciting. If I were a super hero, my super power would be: The ability to take away hunger, abuse, and hurt out of the lives of children; I hate to see children suffer. What most people don’t know about Sharon Maurer me and would be surprised to learn: I played cello in high school and college, but, I haven’t touched one since. I grew up in Grand Rapids and my parents always had season tickets to the symphony. I love classical music; but, I love rock ‘n’ roll, too. Favorite movie: “Top Gun” — I love the camaraderie the pilots shared, and I liked their spirit of ‘We’re good and we’re going to prove it.’ And, when Goose died, it was very touching. Greatest song ever written: We Are the World. It maybe isn’t well written or the greatest, musically, but the message was great and so was the fact that all those people came together as equals, putting aside their egos and fame to do something for others. Favorite vacation destination: We don’t travel a lot but I’ve been to California twice and they were both wonderful trips. I loved the scenery and the people. Person I most admire: My husband, Tom. I admire how, after he lost his hand, he went back to school and became a wonderful teacher, a dedicated husband and father, and he did it all without any anger or bitterness, just acceptance. There’s nothing he can’t do; so the kids and I often forget that he lost his hand. Favorite dinner: Thanksgiving. I think we all love Thanksgiving because the whole family gets together. We usually have 30 to 35 people and end up cooking 40 to 45 pounds of turkey. I make 14 pumpkin pies and my daughter-in-laws bake any other pies they might like to bring. It’s a lot of work but we all love it because we get to be together, pray together and hold hands around kitchen table and thank God for the blessings we have. Best advice I ever received: When I was a little girl my mother would say, ‘Sharon, be a good girl.’ I always thought she meant don’t be naughty and say ‘please’ and ‘thank you.’ As I got older, I also think she meant that I should be kind and loving and help whenever I can, and that is what I have modeled my life after. Each week, The Banner profiles a person from the community who makes Barry County shine. We’ll provide a quick peek each week at some of Barry County’s stars. Do you know someone who should be featured? Send information to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@jadgraphics.com. This is a story that could have been written about a number of hard-working Barry County families who dared to start their own business from scratch, but, because one marks its 50th anniversary this weekend, this one is special. When Bob and Wilma Hayes started their small gun and tackle shop in 1962, they had no idea of the success they might achieve. Bob had a dream of opening his own sporting goods store and spent the next 50 years realizing his dream. Today, Bob has all but turned the reins over to his children Steve, Larry, and Deb, but he still remains owner and maintains a watchful eye on the family business. I can remember my dad, Mel, in long conversations with Hayes when Bob was selling light bulbs and fire extinguishers at the time. One evening, when our family was out driving around the county probably heading for the ice cream shop, we stopped at the Hayes residence to pick up an order of light bulbs. At the time, Bob was working at Bradford White during the day and selling a number of products in the evening. Bob also took classes at Davenport College in Grand Rapids to better prepare himself for starting his own business. Today, we talk about the importance of supporting entrepreneur businessmen like Hayes, but, to really understand his success, you must have an appreciation for how hard the couple worked to fulfill their dream of owning and operating a firstclass sporting goods store. It all started in late 1962, when Bob and Wilma had finally set aside enough money to build a small, nine-by-12-foot building behind their home on Woodschool Road, west of Hastings. The couple didn’t even complete their first year in business before they needed to build their first addition, which was completed in June of 1963. It was the beginning of what would become one of the most successful family-owned sporting goods store in the state. Today, big box sporting goods stores dot the retail landscape, yet Bob’s has a reputation of bringing customers from all over the state. If you ask sports enthusiasts about Bob’s, they would say, they appreciate his huge inventory, “there’s so much stuff that it’s fun to just walk around.” Plus, most of his customers appreciate the friendly, knowledgeable staff that has become a hallmark of the operation. In 1968, Bob moved the operation from Woodschool Road to its present location on M-37. In a previous interview, Hayes said, he was smart enough to know he had to work hard — but naive enough that failure never entered his mind. That’s been the family’s secret to success, always looking forward, planning for the next expansion, and looking for opportunities to satisfy a growing customer base. Bob’s wife and business partner died in 1992 — but the children continue to keep up the passion their folks drilled into them over the years. In 1976, Hayes completed his largest expansion yet, which also became the beginning of his once-a-year anniversary sale that has become a tradition. It’s become a great opportunity for the business to say thanks to its customers for their support by offering special deals, contests, and giveaways during the annual event. Each year, Bob’s brings in company representatives to help with the big sale and to take part in a special contest only offered at Bob’s Gun and Tackle, where it’s all about small town customer service. If you’re not a sports enthusiast, don’t worry because there’s something for everyone at Bob’s — more merchandise than most people can imagine. It’s a lot of fun to just walk around and see all the unusual merchandise, so many items that you might not even know what something is used for, not to mention all the wildlife that adds to the store’s appeal. It’s a real treat and well worth the time to stop and shop. What do you In their flyer that appeared in last week’s Reminder, the front-page headline says thanks for the first 50 years. There are a lot of similar stories in Barry County and all over the country where small business owners started their own businesses in the late to mid-1960s in large numbers. Some made it, some didn’t. It was the hard work and the long hours that determined who was up to the challenge. Today, government leaders talk about entrepreneur businessmen as though it’s easy to start up a new enterprise. It was hard enough for Hayes in the early 1960s, yet today, with all the competition from big box retailers and online shopping, it makes it even more difficult than it was 50 years ago. Walt Disney, in his quest of fulfilling a dream, said, “Somehow I can’t believe there are any heights that can’t be scaled by a man who knows the secret of making dreams come true. This special secret, it seems to me, can be summarized in four C’s. They are Curiosity, Confidence, Courage and Constancy and the greatest of these is Confidence. When you believe a thing, believe it all the way, implicitly and unquestionably.” After reading Disney’s comments, I thought of Bob and Wilma and their passion to own and operate their own business – which continues to grow and prosper today. Stop in sometime this week and commend the family and their associates at the store for a job well done. Hastings approves urban services agreement with Rutland Township For more than five years, the City of Hastings, Rutland Charter, Hastings Charter and Carlton townships officials have met to discuss the possibilities of an urban services agreement. Last week’s approval of such an agreement by the City of Hastings, five days after Rutland township also approved it, is good news for Hastings and Barry County taxpayers. The land designated as part of the urban services agreement is, by far, the most prime property to be developed in the county. For years now, we’ve been talking about the importance of a new hotel, Meijer Markets and additional businesses in the area. Yet, without the necessary infrastructure in place, it’s hampered any major growth along the corridor. I understand the local governments’ need to go slow and to get it right, but we’ve missed out on jobs and the additional tax base because of the lack of expansion in the area. If Hastings is to grow and to prosper in the future, it’s imperative that government officials be able to move the process along at a quicker pace, knowing that prolonged discussion often leads to the loss of growth to other more progressive communities. I applaud the efforts of local officials in forging an agreement, yet I would be remiss if I didn’t add that it took way too long – Rome wasn’t built in a day, but I don’t think it took over five years to put its plans in place. In today’s quick-paced business world, we need to be prepared to move faster — with a vision and plan for any new expansion when the opportunities come our way. I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone at the table — let’s finalize the plans and get to work on the hotel project in the hopes that we’ve only just begun. Fred Jacobs, vice president, J-Ad Graphics think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website, www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. Last week’s question: The recent Olympics television coverage seemed divided between competition and background feature stories. Which would you rather have seen more of? 88% More athletic competition 12% More background feature stories For this week: To ensure full state funding, most Michigan public schools are moving to all-day kindergarten programs. Should kindergartners be required to attend school as full-time students? q q YES NO �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 23, 2012 — Page 5 Michigan Olympians are winners at more than just sports IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV Election is a shocker To the editor: First, I would like thank all of the volunteers who helped with the Aug. 7th primary and all of the voters who participated. Second, I’m shocked. I believe a lot of others are as well. There seems to have been a great lack among voters of being informed on their candidates. Third, I wish to inform everyone that Commissioner Jeff VanNortwick is a board member of the Community Action agency, based in Battle Creek. The CAA spent over $300,000 in Barry County, last year, alone. I also wish to inform everyone that VanNortwick is also a board member of the Potawatomi Resource Conservation and Development Council, which brought over $1 million into Barry County over the past sev- eral years. I believe he is currently the vice president of the Michigan Farmers Union. I also know that Commissioner VanNortwick would have represented us to the best of his ability, despite the lack of funds that Barry County has faced over the past several years and into the foreseeable future. I would like to ask what Jim Dull plans on contributing to Barry County, specifically District 7? Apparently, I was not informed. I also would like to know how I could vote for Commissioner Jeff VanNortwick in November as a write-in. Don Bradstreet, Dowling Animal lovers care about people, too To the editor: I am writing in response to the Aug. 16 Banner letter “People first, not animals”. I’m always amazed how some people react so negatively anytime someone stands up to care for animals. There is a sad “either/or” in some minds. Most folks who care for people also love animals and are glad someone steps in to do that task. Animals are such a huge part of many people’s lives. Apparently, this writer has never allowed himself to bond with a pet, otherwise he wouldn’t react so harshly to others who strive to help animals. We are all guided to do our part in different ways for the world. There are voluminous writings in books about how animals have deeply touched people’s lives. They give unconditional love. How many people give that? So many people tell tales of how their pets saved their lives, literally, by their presence and devotion; suicidal people who hang on because there is a being that loves them; sick, elderly people without friends and families have a warm body to hug and talk to. As a child, I was bullied and my cat was my only and best friend – a stray, an angel sent by God. As for the homeless, they too have pets and want to see them safe. How many people would not even leave the horrors of Hurricane Katrina without assurance that their animals would be helped as well? Animal groups that stepped in were so important to these people. I remember seeing pictures of grown men crying with relief to have someone come and rescue their beloved pets and keep them in a safe place until they could be reunited. I would also like to point out that even if Martin Preston never owned a pet, I’m certain he and his ancestors survived because of animals. They fed, clothed, transported and protected them. We all owe our lives to the animal kingdom, right down to the bees that pollinate our crops. Can we not lend a hand to these creatures without being condemned? Did not God create them and say “It is good?” Are we not stewards of the Earth? If money is the issue, how about rooting out waste and corruption from our government? Then there would be plenty of money for people and animals both. Many famous people respected animals and realized their importance as sentient beings. Let Albert Schweitzer sum it up with his words: “It is man’s sympathy with all creatures that first makes him truly a man.” Jasmine Curtis-Moore Both human and animal battles must be fought To the editor: With regard to “People first, not animals” which appeared in the Aug. 16 Banner, many – if not most people – who are “animal lovers” support humanitarian issues, as well. It is not an either/or mindset, rather a belief that all life is precious, and suffering should be alleviated wherever possible. To suggest that until world hunger is eradicated, animals should fend for themselves displays an extraordinary failure to grasp reality. World hunger, homelessness and all the miseries people inflict on themselves and each other will not end in our lifetime – nor sadly in many lifetimes to come. The same must be said about careless and irresponsible pet owners who allow unwanted litters to fill shelters and prompt “animal lovers” to try to change the probable outcome. Both the human and animal battles must be Flag protocol not followed To the editor: Where is the respect? I am disgusted and appalled at the lack of respect that our city and businesses and private citizens show toward those men and women of our fighting forces who give their lives for this country. The governor asks for flags to be flown at half-mast in respect for the loss of life, but very few will lower their flags. These people gave their lives for you. Robert H. Brooks, Hastings fought, acknowledging that neither will ever be won. Dorothy Flint, Hastings Humane Society doing best it can To the editor: I am writing to response to Martin Preston’s letter in last week’s Banner. I am not sure if he is an animal lover or not ,when he stated stray dogs or cats are being eaten by people who are starving in other countries. Who, in their right mind, would kill dogs or cats to eat them? That was a sick statement. I for one am an animal lover. Also, I think the Barry County Humane Society is doing the best it can on funds, and that is why I feel more people who are richer should donate to a good cause like our shelter. Barb Stauffer, Middleville To the editor: There’s a little something for everybody in the Olympics: drama, competition, pageantry and spectacle, stories of victory and of triumph over adversity. For Michigan in the 2012 Games in London, there was all that and more. Our state was exceptionally well-represented at the just-completed games. Eleven athletes with Michigan ties won medals in London, including 10 Americans and one Canadian. But the Olympic Games are about more than victory and gold. Michigan athletes gave us valuable lessons, not just about hard work and dedication on the field or in the pool, but about how to overcome tough circumstances and handle adversity with poise. Michigan cheered remarkable triumphs. Swimmer Michael Phelps, who perfected his legendary training routine in Ann Arbor, cemented his place as one of the all-time greats in Olympic history with four gold and two silver medals, bringing his all-time medal count to 22. Another swimmer, Allison Schmitt of Canton, also ranks among the most successful Olympic athletes ever. She won five medals, three gold, in London, giving her six in her career. Only six American women have won more. Swimmers and University of Michigan graduates Davis Tarwater and Charlie Houchin helped the United States win gold in the men’s 800-meter relay, and former U-M competitor Tyler Clary won gold in the men’s 200-meter backstroke. Betsey Armstrong, another U-M graduate, helped the U.S. women win gold in water polo. Rochester native Peter Vanderkaay won bronze in the 400-meter freestyle. Our state was well represented in track and field as well: Lauryn Williams, a Detroit native and former silver medalist sprinter, helped the U.S. women win the gold medal in the 400-meter relay. Michigan athletes stood out not just for their success in competition, but for their compelling stories. Boxer Claressa Shields is a student at Flint Northwestern High School. Just 17 and barely old enough to qualify for the games, she defeated a boxer nearly twice her age, and far more experienced, for the middleweight gold medal. It was the first gold medal for the United States in women’s boxing, and Shields impressed observers in London with her enthusiasm and poise as well as her skill in the ring. Gymnast Jordyn Wieber, a student at Anti-bridge ads have hit a new low To the editor: By now you have heard multiple advertisements opposing the proposed New International Trade Crossing. Unfortunately, these ads are spreading misinformation. Just how inaccurate are the ads attacking the new bridge to Canada? The Michigan Truth Squad, an independent, nonpartisan third party that analyzes claims like this, found the ads hit a new low. John Bebow of the Truth Squad says, “We have been following these bridge ads for more than a year, and they are flagrant in their intentional errors that they are putting out there time and again in ad after ad.” Read the whole investigative report from Michigan Radio at http://michiganradio.org/post/bridging-border-influence-money-part-3 – and share it with friends. It’s important that Michiganders know what the facts actually are so they can make an informed determination for themselves. I would also encourage you to check out the whole five-part series as well at http://michiganradio.org/term/nitc. Brian Calley Michigan lieutenant governor 77569443 We’re justifiably proud of all Michigan’s Olympic athletes — no matter where they finished, the moment they set foot in London they achieved the rare honor of competing at the highest level. We thrilled to their victories, and we felt the pain of their disappointments. But most of all, we are proud of the way they represented Michigan and America: with dignity, determination and grit. Carl Levin, Senior U.S. senator from Michigan Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. The Hastings Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Call 269-945-9554 any time for Hastings Banner classified ads 77570260 DeWitt High School, came to London with high hopes. But she left London with prizes more precious even than a gold medal: admiration and respect. Hampered by a leg fracture that required her to wear a protective boot after competition ended, she suffered disappointment in the individual events, but bounced back to help the U.S. women win their first team gold medal in gymnastics in 16 years. Wieber handled the scrutiny of the Olympic spotlight with dignity and maturity far beyond her years. Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Bonnie Mattson • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 �Page 6 — Thursday, August 23, 2012 — The Hastings Banner HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, Aug. 23 — Movie Memories presents “A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court” with Bing Crosby, 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 24 — no preschool story time. Tuesday, Aug. 28 — no toddler story time Area Obituaries in August; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30; open chess club, 6 to 8 p.m. Please call the library, 269-945-4263, for more information about any of the above. Richard (Dick) Emerson McLaughlin, Sr. Worship Together… Lue Ann Herbert Elizabeth Estelle Holley 77570263 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Rev. Ryan Wieland. Sundays - 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Service; Sunday School and Nursery available during both services (Summer Schedule - Adult Sunday School: 9 a.m., Worship & Children’s Programs 10 a.m.) Youth Group, Covenant Prayer, Choir, Chimes, Praise Band, Quilting Group, Community Breakfasts and more! Call the church office at (269) 721-8077 (M/W/F 9 a.m.-12 p.m.), e-mail office@mei.net or visit www.countrychapelumc.org <http://www.countrychapelumc.org/> for more information SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 8:45 a.m. Traditional Worship; 10 a.m. Refreshments; 10:45 a.m. Contemporary Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Youth Pastor, Eric Gillespie. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. for children and youth, and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Junior & Senior High Youth Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Mid-Week Pioneers and adult classes return in September. Thursday: Senior Adult Bible Study at 10 a.m. and lunch at Wendy’s, 11:30 a.m. Vacation Bible School: Wed. & Thurs., July 25 & 26, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Sunday, August 26 - Worship Service 8 and 10 a.m. August 26 Worship service at Grace 8 a.m.; Community Worship at High School Lecture Hall 10 a.m.; Men’s Alcoholics Anonymous 7 p.m. August 27 - Spiritual Alcoholics Anonymous 7:30 p.m. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 945-2645, fax 269-945-2698. Pastor Amy Luckey. http://www.discover-grace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot.com. Friday - 9 a.m. Golfer’s Group Meets; 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday - 4 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 . HASTINGS, MI - Richard (Dick) Emerson McLaughlin Sr. passed away on August 20, 2012 at Spectrum Health Butterworth Hospital. Richard was born on July 29, 1931 in Hastings, to William Emerson and Ethel M. (Heintzelman) McLaughlin. Dick spent his entire life in the Hastings area. In his youth he enjoyed hunting and fishing. He graduated from Hastings High School in 1949. After high school he served in the United States Air Force. During his service he met Virginia M. Shanklin and they married on May 5, 1951. She preceded him in death in 1997. Dick had a very strong work ethic. After 42 years of employment he retired from Hastings Manufacturing in 1991 as corporate safety director. He also served as a volunteer fireman for the City of Hastings. He retired in 1991 as assistant chief after 30 years of service. His other employment included 16 years as a rural mail carrier for the United States Postal Service and 32 years as the sole proprietor of G & D Snowplowing, Inc. After retirement he worked part-time as an insurance inspector. Dick enjoyed attending auctions and operating “Dick’s Dryland Marina.” He could often be found socializing at Ritchie’s Koffee Shop. Richard is survived by his children, Richard (Dr. Kay) Emerson McLaughlin, Jr. and Phyllis (Al) Dean; grandchildren, Curtis (Erica) Norris and Kristen (Andy) Cove; great-grandchildren, Damon Cove, David Cove, Jack Emerson Cove, Erik Cove, Claire Emerson Norris, and Amelia Norris; sister, Patricia Shellington and brother, Ed (Mary) McLaughlin. He was preceded in death by siblings, Donald Heath and Geraldine Heath-Lyons. Dick was a beloved “Papa” to his grandchildren and great grandchildren and his presence in their lives will be missed. “Papa” spent many hours with his great grandchildren making cookies, building play sets, playing card games, and encouraging mischief. Funeral services will be held at the Lauer Family Funeral Home - Wren Chapel, 1401 N. Broadway in Hastings, Thursday, August 23, 2012 at 11 a.m. Memorial contributions may be made to the Hastings Fire Department or the Hastings Public Library. Please share a memory with Dick’s family at www.lauerfh.com FAMILY FUNERAL HOMES DELTON, MI - Lue Ann Herbert, of Delton, passed away August 16, 2012. Lue Ann was born May 26, 1948 in Kalamazoo, the daughter of Charles and Helen (Nadwornik) Watson. A former employee of Meijer on Gull Road, Lue Ann was an attendant at Delton Laundry for 12 years. An avid Detroit Tigers fan, Lue Ann enjoyed traveling, feeding the birds, and her grandchildren. Church was very important to Lue Ann, she loved reading her bible and was a member of Solid Rock Bible Church of Delton. On July 29, 1967, Lue Ann married Wayne R. Herbert who survives. She is also survived by her sons, David (Jamie) Herbert and James (Kim) Herbert; a brother, Charles (Brigata) Watson; 11 grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Kay. Lue Ann's family will receive friends Sunday, August 26, 2012 from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Williams-Gores Funeral Home, Delton. A memorial service will be conducted Monday, August 27, 2012 at 11 a.m., at Solid Rock Bible Church of Delton, Pastor Roger Claypool officiating. Memorial contributions to Solid Rock Bible Church of Delton will be appreciated. Please visit www.williamsgoresfuneral.com to view Lue Ann's online guest book or to leave a condolence message for the family. Linda L. (Bower) Woodmansee HASTINGS, MI - Linda L. (Bower) Woodmansee, age 67, of Hastings, passed away August 20, 2012, at home after her battle with cancer. She was born October 24, 1944 in Sturgis, the daughter of Arlynn and Dorothy Marie (Weaver) Kane. Linda attended Sturgis High School, graduating in 1962. She married Jack Woodmansee on February 14, 2001. Linda was employed by the Viking Corporation, retiring in 2007. She was also employed by the Superette and City Food and Beverage. Linda enjoyed gardening, flea markets, going to casinos and traveling. She also loved to spend time with her grandchildren. Linda was preceded in death by her parents, Arlynn and Dorothy Kane; son, Kevin L. Bower; grandson, Tyler Bower; grandchild, Jeffery Bower, Jr.; and nephew, Jimmy Wallick, Jr. Linda is survived by her husband, Jack; sons, Shawn Bower of Middleville, Todd (Barb) Bower of Hastings, and Jeffery Bower of Hastings; stepchildren, Tasha (Ron) Woodmansee of Hastings, Brett Woodmansee of Hastings; sisters, Janet (Jim) Wallick of Sturgis, Vonda (Jim) Perrin of Pelican Rapids, MN; 12 grandchildren, Dylan Horning, Brandon, Jakob Bower, Jessica Slater, Shiyla, Ray L. Girrbach Owner/Director This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 Lauer Family Funeral Homes 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings Fiberglass Products 945-2471 • 269-945-3252 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 Mikayla Bower, Prescott, Abigayl Bower, Brady, Addison Bower, Brooklynn, Caidynn Woodmansee, and many nieces and nephews. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, Great Lakes Division, Inc., Attn: Memorial and Tribute Gifts, 1755 Abby Road, East Lansing, MI 48823. Visitation will be held, Thursday, August 23, 2012 from 6 until 8 p.m. at the Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. A funeral service will be held Friday, August 24, 2012 at 11 a.m. at the Girrbach Funeral Home. Reverend Carla Smith will be officiating the service. Burial will follow the service at Hastings Township Cemetery. A luncheon will be held at the Hastings Moose Lodge following the burial. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc. Please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guestbook or to leave a memory or message for the family. Serving Hastings, Barry County and Surrounding Communities for 45 years •Traditional and Cremation Services •Pre-Planning Services •Large Parking Lot - Handicap Accessible •Serving All Faiths •Pre-arrangement Transfers Accepted 102 Cook Hastings HASTINGS, MI - Elizabeth Estelle Holley, age 86, of Hastings, passed away August 14, 2012 at Thornapple Manor in Hastings. She was born in Battle Creek, on January 8, 1926, the daughter of Forest Milton and Eila Rolene (Goss) Gray. Elizabeth attended school in Battle Creek. She married Clarence Holley on June 12, 1943. Over the years, Elizabeth was employed by Kellogg’s, Archway Cookies, a flower shop and also worked as a cleaning lady. Elizabeth enjoyed sewing, ceramics, cooking and painting. She loved being with her family. She was a member of the Extension, First Wesleyan Church and 4-H Cooking and Sewing. Elizabeth was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Clarence (Sam) Holley; son, Michal S. Holley; brother, Jack Gray; one grandson; one great grandson; and a sonin-law, Les Rush. She is survived by her daughters, M. Illadelle Barcroft of Hastings, Anna May (Penny) (Cliff) Boody of Climax, Jancy (Ronald) Lear, Stella (Dale) Wilcox, Janie Rush; son, Clarence Robert Jr. (Jay) Holley; stepsons, Sam Robert (Kathy) Holley, Keith (Cindy) Holley and numerous grandchildren. A memorial service was held Friday, August 24, 2012 at the Lakewood United Methodist Church, 10121 Brown Rd. (M-50), Lake Odessa. Reverend David L. Flagel officiated the service. A luncheon followed the service. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a message or memory to the family. Family Owned and Operated www.girrbachfuneralhome.net Call 945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads �Social News The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 23, 2012 — Page 7 BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY by Gerald Stein NORTH N: K J 2 M: A 3 2 L: K 10 6 4 K: A 7 3 WEST N: 10 9 8 6 M: 9 7 4 L: 3 2 K: K 9 6 5 EAST N: 7 4 M: Q 10 8 5 L: J 9 8 7 5 K: Q 4 SOUTH: Val Bauchman celebrates 98th birthday N: A Q 5 3 M: K J 6 L: A Q K: J 10 8 2 Dealer: East Vulnerable: None Lead: 5K North 4NT Pass East Pass Pass Pass South 1NT 6NT Houghs to celebrate their golden wedding anniversary West Pass Pass Today’s column continues the playing and bidding of no trump hands, especially big hands where the ultimate goal is bidding and making slam in no trump. Today’s hand was played recently at a local club where this same hand was bid and played eight times. Only one NorthSouth team managed to get it right. What went wrong with the other seven teams? South opened the bidding with a strong 1NT bid, having 17 high card points, only one doubleton, and a balanced hand. North responded with her hand, jumping to 4NT! This was not a Blackwood Convention invitation. This was a bid called a Quantitative Raise. North, with this bid, promises a balanced hand and enough high card points, in this case 15, to invite South to try for a slam in no trump. South, with 17 high card points, readily accepted the invitation and promptly bid 6 no trump. So far so good. In the eight times that this hand was played, only four of the eight teams made it to 6 NT. Three of the teams made it to 3NT and one made it to 5NT, stopping short of a small slam in no trump. So four made the right bid, but of the four, only one made the right plan to take the twelve tricks necessary to make the contract. Let’s look at the plan for South once he saw the dummy following the lead of the 5K, which by the way, was the lead three out of eight times. The other lead was the 10N as a top of a sequence lead for the other five leads. Both leads were good leads for the defenders. South duly thanked his partner for such a welcoming dummy and a good bridge bid. As we have seen in the past few weeks, South stopped to count his winners: in spades, there were four winners; in hearts, there were two winners; in diamonds, there were three winners; in clubs, there was only the one winner, the AK. With only ten winners, where would the other two winners come from? With a club lead, South realized that he would get another club winner, but now he was still one trick short of making the 6 NT contract. It looked to be a toss-up between the diamonds and the hearts. As you look at the four hands, it is easy to see that taking the heart finesse is the key to taking the extra and final winning trick. It was not so easy when you were playing the hand. It is, however, the only way to make the contract, hoping that East has the QM. East, indeed, had the QM and the one team that tried the heart finesse was the only one of eight teams to bid and make the 6NT slam hand. Well done, North-South, on that particular slam hand. What is the take-away advice from this hand? In this case, was the North-South team who made the winning move just lucky, or were they the only team to make a total plan? It appears that this particular team took the time to realize that the only hope to make the slam was to take the heart finesse and hope for the best. After all, a finesse is only a 50% chance, but, as we have seen by their play, the finesse worked and the take-away for them was 990 points. Those who bid and missed the slam received a minus 50 and the lowest scores of the day. Taking the time to make a total plan would have resulted in a plus score for at least three other teams who bid and should have made the small slam in no trump. It is not enough to just count the winners for your plan. You have to know how to pick up the extra needed tricks as well. Happy bidding and playing in no trump. ***** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) Rodger and Linda (Lin) (Eddy) Hough, formerly of Hastings, of 617 Harrington Rd., Delton, were married on Sep. 8, 1962, Lin’s 18th birthday. Please join them as they, along with their children and their families, celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary with an Open House on Sep. 8, 2012 from 2-5 p.m. at the Delton Booster Bldg., 5380 Moose Lodge Dr., Delton, off M-43 Hwy. Your presence is the only gift desired. Val Bauchman turned 98 years of age on August 11, 2012. A celebration will be held September 1, at 11 a.m. at Fish Hatchery Park. Birthday cards can be sent to Val at: Woodlawn Meadows, 1821 N. East Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, and she would be happy to receive a visit! Michael and Dorothy Janose 50th anniversary open house Michael and Dorothy Janose will be celebrating 50 years of marriage on August 31, 2012. Their children invite you to an open house honoring them at Caledonia American Legion, 9548 Cherry Valley Ave., Caledonia, MI, on Sunday, August 26 from 2-5 p.m. No gifts, please. MARRIAGE LICENSES Jacob Lyle Robert Brinckman, Hastings and Krystle Ranae Zimmerman, Hastings. Nathan Raymond Pranger, Middleville and Jessica Lynn Price, Freeport. Eric Steven Webster, Grand Rapids and Elizabeth Ann Gass, Middleville. Chad Marshall Howell, Freeport and Rylee Danielle O’Bryant, Mulliken. Justin Daniel Lerette, Battle Creek and Lindsay Lynn Taylor, Battle Creek. Michael Paul Brownlee, Hastings and Barbara Jean Innes, Nashville. Scott Lee Redman, Hastings and Kristen Marie Munro, Hastings. 77570354 Jeff and Marsha Davis to celebrate 30th anniversary Jeff and Marsha (Iverson) Davis will celebrate their 30th anniversary on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. They were married at St. Paul Episcopal Church in Healdsburg, Calif. They have two daughters, Tiffany and Sara; two granddaughters, Kiana Paige and Hanna; two grandsons, Tyler and Kenneth. Cards may be sent to P.O. Box 546, Hastings, MI 49058. Bernard Killinger to celebrate 85th birthday Bernard Killinger will be celebrating his 85th birthday at a picnic hosted by his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren on August 25th at Bob King Park. Save the Date! BENEFIT for Ryan Leroy, born at Pennock Hospital on Aug. 10, 2012 at 9:51 to Layla and Travis Graham of Woodland. Weighing 8 lbs. 3 ozs. and 19.5 inches long. ***** Adrianna Grace May, born at Pennock Hospital on Aug. 12, 2012 at 12:34 a.m. to Amanda Sandahl and Daniel Bursley of Nashville. Weighing 7 lbs. 0 ozs. and 19 1/2 inches long. ***** Madison Grace, born at Pennock Hospital on Aug. 10, 2012 at 7:53 a.m. to Justin and Ashley Carley of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 1 oz. and 19 1/2 inches long. ***** Willow May, born at Pennock Hospital on Aug. 11, 2012 at 10:31 p.m. to Maiya and Jon Merrick of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 1 oz. and 18.5 inches long. ***** Annelise Kadee, born at Pennock Hospital on Aug. 8, 2012 at 11:21 a.m. to David and Jody Armstrong of Hastings. Weighing 8 lbs. 14 ozs. and 20 1/2 inches long. ***** Hannah Lee, born at Pennock Hospital on Aug. 8, 2012 at 6:25 p.m. to Karlee and Jake Diekhoff of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 13 ozs. and 20 inches long. www.river-ridge.biz ~Sunday, Sept. 30~ Licensed / Insured / Local Call Scott 517-290-5556 • 877-448-1548 Barry County Conservation Club FREE Consultation & Estimates! ALSO EGRESS WINDOWS / MOLD REMEDIATION 77570231 Newborn Babies KEN DeMOTT Job Opening for: High School Construction Trades Program Paraprofessional HVAC SERVICE Part-time CTE Paraprofessional needed for Construction Trades at Hastings High School. Must be willing and able to start immediately. Primary duties include assisting teaching staff with preparation of job sites and classroom labs, computer data input, along with assisting and supervision of students. Must have high school diploma and have residential construction trades experience. High School teaching experience is not required but very useful. E-mail letter of interest and resume to jhoefler@hassk12.org or send via mail: Attn. Jason Hoefler, Hastings High School, 520 W. South St. Hastings, Michigan, 49058. Deadline for application is Thurs., Sept. 6th. 77570459 The term of the contract will be for the year beginning November 1, 2012 and ending October 31, 2015. The closing date for the bid is September 14th at 2:00 p.m. Bids must be submitted to County Administration, 3rd Floor, 220 W. State Street, Hastings, MI 49058 in a sealed envelope clearly marked “HVAC BID”. A copy of the Invitation to Bid may be requested in person at the County Clerk’s office at 220 W. State Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Specific questions regarding the Invitation to Bid may be directed to Tim Neeb, Building and Grounds Supervisor, at (269) 838-7084. 77570367 HELP WANTED TWO BROTHERS AND A TENT Local insurance agency seeking highly motivated team player for fast-paced office. Tables and chairs available. Insurance background preferred. Call: Dan McKinney 269-838-7057 or Tom McKinney 269-838-3842 THE COUNTY OF BARRY IS ACCEPTING SEALED BIDS for For All Your Tent Rental Needs Please send resume and salary requirements to … Ad #119 c/o Reminder 77570381 77570358 P.O. Box 188 Hastings, MI 49058 77566915 �Page 8 — Thursday, August 23, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of by Elaine Garlock The Red Cross Bloodmobile will be in town again Monday, Aug. 27, from noon to 5:45 p.m. to collect blood at Central United Methodist Church fellowship hall. Food will be provided to replenish fluids of those who give blood. The Calder Cup, hockey’s award for the winningest team will be in Big Rapids this weekend under the watchful eye of Brian Garlock, equipment manager and videographer of the Norfolk Admirals who won the award in a spring game against the Toronto Marlie. At some point, the cup will be at the Ferris State University ice arena. Brian expects to be interviewed by television and radio stations Sunday. The trophy has been sent town to town to the home of each player and staff member. Last week Wednesday the First Congregational Church hosted an ice cream social on the new space north of the church with a large awning to shield the guests who enjoyed the ice cream with a variety of toppings. Small youngsters enjoyed the open space for running on what will one day be the church’s parking lot. The 94th Garlinger/Gerlinger family reunion was held Sunday at the fellowship hall of Central United methodist Church. After a bountiful dinner, a business meeting was held. The family will meet again next year Aug. 13. Relatives attended from Hastings, Vermontville, Woodland and Lake Odessa. The September films to be shown at the Ionia Theater include Ireland, “Alaska Winter Wonder,” Scotland, Mount vernon and Navajo Code Talkers World War II. Odessa Township voters approved a millage that will aid funding for the fire department and emergency services. The firetrucks are aging. The millage is for four years. By then the oldest truck will be 20 years old. St. Edwards parish now has an additional pastor in the person of Father Luis Garcia. He will assist Father Tom Boufford in the work of two churches. He is now living in Lake Odessa to assist in both the Ionia and Lake Odessa churches which have large hispanic populations. The Barry County Historical Society met last week at the Neithamer farmstead. At least eight members of the Lake Odessa Historical Society attended to hear the interesting history of Woodland Township as reported by Tom Neithamer. Everyone seemed to enjoy the fellowship that followed in the distinctive building with its array of historic pictures and tools, Woodland’s version of a museum. Local fall ag day planned Sept. 6 The Ionia, Barry, Eaton and Ingham Conservation districts have partnered up with Crop Production Services to offer a fall ag day Thursday, Sept. 6. The morning will feature a Clean Sweep event from 8 a.m. to noon at the CPS Distribution Center in Sunfield. As part of the Clean Sweep program, Michigan residents can bring in agricultural pesticides (including herbicides, fungicides and insecticides) and mercury for safe disposal, free of charge. The afternoon events will be located at the CPS Woodbury facility and will include a free lunch, Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program Phase 1 informational meeting presented by local technicians, pesticide spill safety demonstration and current production updates by CPS professionals. Individuals interested in participating are encouraged to RSVP before Sept. 3 to ensure lunch availability. For more information or to RSVP, call the Ionia Conservation District, 616-527-2620. Roth IRA: For your retirement … and beyond If you’re somewhat familiar with investing, you may know that the Roth IRA is a great retirement-savings vehicle. But are you aware that some of its benefits can also pay off for the next generation of your family? To understand why this is so, it’s necessary to be familiar with a Roth IRA’s features. For starters, when you contribute to a Roth IRA, your earnings have the potential to grow tax free, provided you don’t start taking withdrawals until you’re 59_ and you’ve had your account at least five years. The amounts you contributed aren’t taxed when withdrawn because you’ve already paid taxes on the money you put in. And the potential for taxfree earnings can continue even when your beneficiaries inherit your Roth IRA, though you’ll need to consult with your tax advisor on this issue. A Roth IRA also offers other features that can help you build resources for retirement while possibly helping your surviving family members. For one thing, you can contribute to your Roth IRA for as long as you have some earned income, up to the contribution limits, and as long as you meet certain income limitations. Even if you’ve officially “retired,” you might do some consulting or part-time work. So you could put some of your earnings into your Roth IRA. This ability to keep funding your Roth IRA virtually indefinitely can give you more flexibility in managing your retirement income — and, depending on how you do manage that income and what your other objectives may be, you may also end up with more money that could be left to your beneficiaries. Also, unlike a traditional IRA or a 401(k), a Roth IRA does not require you to start taking minimum distributions at age 70_. In fact, you are never required to withdraw money from your Roth IRA. And by leaving your account intact for as long as possible, you’ll potentially have more money available for a variety of options — one of which may involve leaving sums to your beneficiaries. Your non-spouse beneficiaries must take annual required minimum distributions, but they have the option to take the distributions over their lifetime. 06789216 Local non-profit seeks a strong, positive, customer service personality with multitasking skills, highly organized and a must have MS/Windows experience. Hours will vary by season. Send resume to: Clerical, P.O. Box 252 Hastings, MI 49058 77570350 Barry Community Foundation 77570275 We are seeking a dynamic and organized individual that will be responsible for administrative functions related to education and youth programs. Responsibilities include but are not limited to: ensuring efficient and accurate processing of scholarships and grants; monitoring grantee reports; providing students and schools information about scholarship application and award processes; producing information about grants and education programs for internal and external use and creating, maintaining and sharing documentation of processes used. Must possess strong written and oral communication skills and be highly organized and detail oriented. Must have at least five years experience in an administrative role, nonprofit experience a plus, but not required. This is a full time position. Resumes and cover letters will be accepted through September 6 at 5:00 p.m. Please mail or deliver them to the Barry Community Foundation 231 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 06789348 The Barry County Democrats invite you to a FREE SUMMERFEST CELEBRATION at Thomas Jefferson Hall IN HASTINGS! ® The Saturday, August 25 2 to 4 P.M. (after the parade) MEET CANDIDATES STEVE PESTKA and TOM HUIS Music by the Scio Brothers and Doug Fast 77570334 REFRESHMENTS WILL BE SERVED 77564841 Keep in mind, though, that your Roth IRA is part of your estate for purposes of federal estate taxes. In 2012, your estate would be subject to these taxes if it were worth more than $5.12 million (or less, if you made certain gifts). In 2013, however, this amount is scheduled to drop to $1 million unless Congress acts on this issue. (Some states also have estate taxes that apply at amounts less than the federal amount.) In any case, if you have a sizable estate, you should consult with your tax and legal advisors. When you invest in a Roth IRA, your goal, first and foremost, is to help fund your retirement. In fact, basically all your decisions regarding your Roth IRA — how much to contribute, where to invest the money and when to begin taking withdrawals — should be based on your own retirement goals. However, as a side benefit to investing in a Roth IRA, you may find that you could help out the next generation, or two, of your family. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors are not estate planners and cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your estate-planning attorney or qualified tax advisor regarding your situation. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 34.42 -1.02 AT&T 36.59 -.66 BP PLC 42.40 +.22 CMS Energy Corp 23.12 -.60 Coca-Cola Co 39.26 -.12 Eaton 45.68 -.07 Family Dollar Stores 64.27 +1.00 Fifth Third Bancorp 14.39 +.14 Flowserve CP 127.07 -.20 Ford Motor Co. 9.53 +.09 General Mills 38.63 +.21 General Motors 21.63 +1.42 Intel Corp. 26.11 -.37 Kellogg Co. 51.39 +.58 McDonald’s Corp 88.50 +.38 Pfizer Inc. 23.69 -.29 Ralcorp 68.20 +3.61 Sears Holding 56.89 +1.22 Spartan Motors 5.20 -.08 Spartan Stores 15.42 +.30 Stryker 54.30 +.51 TCF Financial 10.77 +.43 Walmart Stores 71.43 -2.58 Gold $1,637.60 +37.70 Silver $29.29 +1.47 Dow Jones Average 13,203 +31 Volume on NYSE 599M +75M Cell Phone Boosters Installed Too! PART-TIME OFFICE CLERK YOUTH PROGRAM SPECIALIST EDWARD JONES SEE YOU AT THE HALL! Salty tomb within an underground crystal by Dr. E. Kirsten Peters The next time you have a saltshaker handy, you might want to remove a few grains. If you have a simple magnifying glass, you’ll see the salt is really tiny cubes. Salt is a mineral, and each grain is a well-formed crystal that breaks into cubic shapes. Salt in your saltshaker looks like a simple solid — just another bit of sturdy matter that doesn’t flow or deform. But salt that’s under pressure is different. Salt far enough underground behaves like Silly Putty, oozing and flowing over time. Salt has been on my mind recently because I’ve been reading about nuclear energy. Bear with me and I’ll explain. Nuclear plants give us one-fifth of the electrical power we use in the grid each day. Even some environmental activists think nuclear energy holds significant promise because it gives us power without the production of greenhouse gases. But our use of nuclear plants also demands that we address the question of burying radioactive waste. The good news is that we’ve started to do exactly that in New Mexico, and so far things are going just as planned. I’ve been reading recently about that topic in a book about nuclear energy called Power to Save the World by Gwyneth Cravens. The four-square-mile Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (or WIPP as it’s commonly known) is in the Chihuahuan Desert. It makes use of one small part of an enormous salt bed that’s 690 miles long and 260 miles wide. The gigantic body of salt was laid down by a shallow sea in what geologists call the Permian Period about 250 million years ago. It’s been a crystalline body of salt from that day to this, surviving intact despite all the changes that went on above it at the surface of the Earth in the following two geologic eras. In many parts of the world, circulating groundwater could move nuclear waste after it’s buried in the Earth. Happily, the salt formation at WIPP is quite dry, with only a little water in it. Best of all, the water does not move to any appreciable extent from the salt to the surrounding rocks. “Movement of groundwater from or through the salt formation to rocks nearby is essentially nonexistent,” Dr. Don Wall of Washington State University told me. Wall is director of the nuclear reactor at WSU, and he used to work on the WIPP project. WIPP’s storage rooms for our nuclear waste are over 2,000 feet underground in the salt bed. The WIPP facility accepts what’s called transuranic waste, much of which is materials like gloves that have been in contact with uranium, plutonium and other radioactive elements. From my point of view, part of the magic of WIPP is that salt 2,000 feet underground deforms like plastic, flowing about three inches per year at the repository. That’s a helpful feature for the isolation of the nuclear waste because it means the salt will flow around the casks of waste, enveloping them in earth material and sealing them in place as time unfolds. When WIPP is fully finished, it will have eight underground areas with seven rooms apiece. Each room will be 33 feet wide and 13 feet high. Waste will be placed in the rooms. Over time, the salt of the ceiling, walls and floors of the room will flow together, “healing the wound” of the empty areas within the Earth. Alert readers may remember that more concentrated, high-level nuclear waste was slated to go to the Yucca Mountain site in Nevada. We as a nation spent billions of dollars researching and building that repository. But Yucca Mountain was ultimately nixed because people in Nevada didn’t want the waste in their state. Most folks in New Mexico feel differently about WIPP, and its successful operations are converting some skeptics, one by one. There’s even the argument to be made that WIPP could someday accept high-level waste, not just the type it’s licensed for. Nuclear energy is part of our daily electrical power supply. No matter your feelings about that, we have nuclear waste on our hands and we therefore need to address waste disposal. For my part, I’m glad WIPP is putting waste into a salty tomb. Dr. E. Kirsten Peters, a native of the rural Northwest, was trained as a geologist at Princeton and Harvard universities. Questions for future Rock Doc columns may be sent to epeters@wsu.edu. This column is a service of the College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences at Washington State University. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 23, 2012 — Page 9 Hastings ‘Home-Town America’ festival preceded Summerfest The 1970s brought several summer celebrations to Hastings. The first included a months-long build-up to the celebration of the city’s centennial in June 1971. Next came the Hastings Home-Town America Festival in 1975, followed by the community’s celebration of the nation’s bicentennial. After the end of a somewhat quiet year, organizers gathered in 1977 to plan for the Harvest Festival in 1978. By the next year, the name had been changed to Summerfest, which will celebrate its 35th year this weekend. Regardless of title, the downtown festival has continued to mix its agricultural roots with art and music, athletic events and games and more. Following is a story introducing the shortlived but successful celebration that preceded Summerfest, from the Oct. 17, 1974, Banner: ***** The town clock has chimed the hour for decades, through the business of the day and the stillness of the night. The seasons along the Thornapple have changed from spring green to autumn red and gold, to winter white. The past persists in names like Mill Street and Sweezy’s Pond and Bulls Prairie. It fades in others like Turkey Hollow, Goodyear Grubs and Bumble Bee Plains. Workers punch the time clock to manufacture piston rings, presses and aluminum products where once their forefathers turned out buggy whips, fine furniture, corsets and boots and croquet mallets. Stores have new fronts, but merchants can still greet their customers by name. These are the things we live with and the things we remember. This is home, and this is “home-town America” at its best. In 1976, towns and cities across the country will be celebrating the 200th anniversary of the Nation. Hastings plans to show them “how it’s done” with a precentennial celebration in 1975. Co-chairmen John Jacobs and Ron Miller have selected committee members and have begun regular planning sessions to fully develop the three-day “Home-town America Festival.” The project was conceived and sanctioned by the Hastings Area Chamber of Commerce. Working on this committee with Oldest Batter – Ray Reynolds, 68, was the oldest batter and pitcher at the softball game Sunday, Aug. 17, at Tyden Park, during the Family Day Picnic. And here he is playing right field – (Banner photo, Aug. 18, 1975). the co-chairmen are Dick and Posy Shuster, Elizabeth Underwood, Ralph Hodapp, Gordon Finnie, Art Steeby, Bob King, Tom Johnston, Frank Walsh, Mike Klovanich and Doug and Dorotha Cooper. The intent of this festival is to find both a unique and appropriate way to recognize the nation’s founding, at the same time honoring the town’s pioneer years and setting new directions that will enhance the quality of life here. Ideas have begun to flow freely as questions stimulate plans. What historical events and landmarks ought to be featured? What can be done that will be lasting, extending beyond a few special days? How can pride in the town be strengthened and nourished? How can such ongoing institutions as Charlton Park and the historical society, in fact, all clubs, churches, schools and groups be involved? How can the varied talents of young and old be tapped most effectively? Because history records that once American Indians camped and traded along the north side of the Thornapple near the Michigan Avenue bridge, it seems providential that skill with the bow and arrow is to be demonstrated here in Hastings, when the Professional Archers Association holds its competitive meet at Johnson Field in the summer of ‘75, the same weekend as the citywide festival. The festival is scheduled for the weekend of Aug. 15, 16 and 17, 1975. Ideas are still popping, lots of decisions are yet to be made, and the task of organizing a complex community effort is only beginning. But the chairmen are cheered by the enthusiasm and imagination of their committee and foresee a successful preservation and celebration of Hastings’ heritage, a warm and spirited “Home-town America.” Home Town Speakers – The Home Town American speakers Friday morning, aug. 15 drew long applause from their listeners as they reviewed highlights of Hastings’ and Barry County’s history. Participating were (from left) Howard Frost, Mrs. George B. [Gladys] Youngs who was the narrator, Richard M. Cook, Hubert Cook and Donald Fisher, (Banner photo). Square dancers show their steps on South Church Street in front of the library. (Banner Aug. 18, 1975) Less than two weeks before the festival, plans were solidified, as disclosed in the Aug. 4, 1975 Banner: Hometown Display – Downtown Hastings will be full of interesting displays and exhibits during the “Home Town America” Festival to be held on Aug. 15, 16 and 17, all geared toward providing a fun weekend and brining back some of the past. One of the demonstrations which will take place will be quilt tying. Mrs. Kathryn Ferris (left), 420 Tanner Lake Road, will be showing people how to tie-off a quilt and will be inviting people to help her out. With Mrs. Ferris here is Mrs. “Si” Hildebrandt, 7777 N. Middleville Road, who will be providing the quilting frames for the demonstration. Festival planners have scheduled a variety of activities for the weekend and foresee a weekend of fun for all ages and tastes. NOTICE OF ADOPTION FOR ORDINANCE # A-5-2012 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE ZONING ORDINANCE OF BARRY COUNTY TO ADD TO THE FOLLOWING ARTICLES – ARTICLE 7, 11 & 19. BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN HEREBY ORDAINS: A-5-2012 Under Article 7, Section 704 – Table of Land Uses – Add the following: Add to - Day Care, Group (7-12 clients) as an “S” – Special Land Use under the RR and A zoning districts. Under Article 11, Section 1102, RR zoning district - Special Land Uses Add – “Day Care, Group” Under Article 19, Section 1903, Agriculture zoning district – Special Land Uses Add – “Day Care, Group” BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN Date: August 14, 2012 By: Craig Stolsonburg, Chairperson Barry County Board of Commissioners Pamela A. Jarvis, Barry County Clerk Published Date: August 23, 2012 The above named ordinance becomes effective August 30, 2012. Copy of this ordinance is available for purchase or inspection in the Barry County Planning Office at 220 W. State St., Hastings, Michigan between the hours 8:00 A.M. - 5 P.M. (closed between 12-1 p.m.), Monday thru Friday. Please call (269)945-1290 for further information. 77570346 Storytelling about the times in Hastings, a farmers and flea market, a showing of the film “1776,” and a wagon train trip from Hastings to Charlton Park will be among the events during the Home Town America Festival, Aug. 15 to 17 in Hastings. Friday will be the biggest day for events, with things going on from 8:45 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Among the events Friday, Aug. 15, will be the storytelling by four Hastings “old timers,” the showing of “1776,” an evening of musical entertainment on the courthouse steps, the farm and flea market, and two seats of bingo. On Saturday, Aug. 16, the wagon train will leave from the fairgrounds [then located at the Kmart Plaza] to Charlton Park, leaving at 10:30 a.m. The WZZM TV observation balloon ascent will be at 11 a.m., and an antique auto exhibit will be Saturday afternoon. An arts and crafts show will be held all day on the courthouse lawn, and the bingo game will also be Saturday afternoon and evening. Sunday events include a family picnic day at Tyden Park, Hastings, at noon, followed by a softball game and the raft race on the Thornapple River. Here is the complete schedule for the threeday festival, as compiled by the festival committee: Friday 8:45 a.m. – Merchants wash down State Street with brooms, fire department to provide water. 9 a.m. – Opening of farmers mnarket and flea market using State Street from Church to Michigan Avenue 9 a.m. – Opening of Liberty Bell exhibit, Hastings City Bank parking lot. 9 a.m. – Opening of historical window displays, business district. 10:30 a.m. – Historical storytelling on steps of courthouse, sponsored by Friends of Library. 1:30 p.m. – Matinee showing of the musical hit “1776” at the Strand Theatre, sponsored by Friends of the Library. 1 to 4:30 p.m. – Bingo, sponsored by chamber of commerce on Church Street between State and Court. 5:30 to 8 – Bingo, sponsored by chamber of commerce. 7 p.m. – Musical entertainment, courthouse steps. Saturday 9 a.m. – Opening of arts and crafts Sshow, courthouse lawn. See TURNING, page 12 Penny scramble – A penny scramble is always fun for the young fry, whether at a festival or picnic such as was held at Tyden Park Sunday, Aug. 17, the final day of the Home-Town America celebration – (Banner photo, Aug. 18, 1975). NOTICE OF ADOPTION FOR ORDINANCE # A-4-2012 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE ZONING ORDINANCE OF BARRY COUNTY TO ADD TO THE FOLLOWING ARTICLES – ARTICLE 7, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, & 23. BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN HEREBY ORDAINS: A-4-2012 Under Article 7, Section 704 – Table of Land Uses – Add the following: Include nursing homes as a use permitted by Right (“R”) in the MDR, HDR and MU zoning districts and as a use permitted by Special Use (“S”) in the LDR and RR zoning districts. Under Article 23, Special Uses - Add New - Section 2353 Section 2353 Nursing Homes A. Definition. A residential care facility providing long term care for elderly, infirm, terminally ill, physically, emotionally and/or developmentally disabled person, licensed in accord with Article 17 of Public Act 368 of 1978, as amended. B. Regulations and Conditions. 1. The area of the proposed site shall be at least two (2) acres and shall front on a major street as defined by Section 220 of this Ordinance. 2. Must comply with all health regulations concerning well and sewage disposal per the BarryEaton District Health Department. 3. The emergency entrance and the delivery area shall be obscured from the general view. 4. Any dumpsters on site shall be enclosed on four (4) sides with an opaque fence equipped with a lockable gate. Any disposal of bio-hazardous waste shall be in conformance with state and local requirements. 5. Building in the LDR and RR zoning districts shall have a mandatory 40 foot side yard setback and a mandatory 50 foot rear yard setback. 6. All exterior lighting shall be in accordance with Section 523 hereof. 7. All signs shall be in compliance with the provisions of Article 25 of this Ordinance. 8. All off street parking shall be in compliance with Section 527 of this Ordinance. 9. Landscaping shall be provided in accordance with Section 521 of this Ordinance. 10. A Detailed Site Plan pursuant to Section 2701.B shall be required. Under the following: Article 11, Section 1102 – RR zoning district – Special Land Uses – Add “Nursing Homes” Article 12, Section 1202, LDR zoning district – Special Land Uses – Add “Nursing Homes” Article 13, Section 1301, MDR zoning district – Permitted Uses – Add “Nursing Homes” Article 14, Section 1401, HDR zoning district – Permitted Uses – Add “Nursing Homes” Article 15, Section 1501, MU zoning district – Permitted Uses – Add “Nursing Homes” BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN Date: August 14, 2012 By: Craig Stolsonburg, Chairperson Barry County Board of Commissioners Pamela A. Jarvis, Barry County Clerk Published Date: August 23, 2012 The above named ordinance becomes effective August 30, 2012. Copy of this ordinance is available for purchase or inspection in the Barry County Planning Office at 220 W. State St., Hastings, Michigan between the hours 8:00 A.M. - 5 P.M. (closed between 12-1 p.m.), Monday thru Friday. Please call (269)945-1290 for further information. 77570348 �Page 10 — Thursday, August 23, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Laura M. Davis, an unmarried woman, original mortgagor(s), to PHH Mortgage Services, Mortgagee, dated April 30, 2003, and recorded on May 21, 2003 in instrument 1104892, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-One Thousand Eleven and 69/100 Dollars ($81,011.69). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on September 13, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Being known and designated as a parcel of land in the Southwest 1/4 of section 8, Town 3 North, Range 10 West, Yankee Springs TWP., Barry County, MI, described as: Beginning at a point in the center of road which lies 1467.40 feet due North and North 75 degrees West 782.07 feet from the South 1/4 post of section 8; thence South 6 Degrees 6 feet West 158 feet; thence North 83 degrees 14 feet West 82.50 feet; thence North 6 degrees 6 feet East 158 feet; thence South 83 degrees 14 feet East 82.50 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 16, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #410611F01 77570218 (08-16)(09-06) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Marcia Bowman and Rodney Bowman, husband and wife, to Nationstar Mortgage, LLC f/k/a Centex Home Equity Company, LLC, Mortgagee, dated August 18, 2003 and recorded August 26, 2003 in Instrument Number 1111920, Barry County Records, Michigan. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred ThirtySeven Thousand Six Hundred Thirty-Four and 9/100 Dollars ($137,634.09) including interest at 4.079% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 09/13/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The following described premises situated in the Township of Hastings, County of Barry and State of Michigan, to wit: Lots 5 and 6, Todd's Acres Subdivision, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 4 of Plats, on Page 21, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: August 16, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 426.3857 (08-16)(09-06) 77570241 FORECLOSURE NOTICE THIS IS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE Default has occurred in a Mortgage made on November 29, 2010 by Jerry D. Ray and Josie P. Ray, Mortgagor, to Hastings City Bank, a Michigan corporation, as Mortgagee. The Mortgage was recorded on December 6, 2010 in the Office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan in Instrument No. 201012060011368. At the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due and unpaid on the Mortgage the sum of NinetyTwo Thousand Six Hundred Seventeen and 26/100 Dollars ($92,617.26), including interest at 3.875% per annum. No suit or proceedings have been instituted to recover any part of the debt secured by the Mortgage, and the power of sale contained in the Mortgage has become operative by reason of such default. On Thursday, August 30, 2012, at one o'clock in the afternoon at the east steps of the Barry County Courthouse, 220 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan, which is the place for holding mortgage sales for Barry County, Michigan, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder, at public sale, for the purpose of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid upon the Mortgage, together with the legal costs and charges of sale, including attorneys' fees allowed by law, the property located in the Township of Rutland, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and described in the Mortgage as follows: A parcel of land in the Southeast 1/4 of Section 13, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, Rutland Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as beginning at a point on the south line of said Section 13 which lies South 89 degrees 13’ 30” West 395.70 feet from the Southeast corner of said Section 13; thence South 89 degrees 13’ 30” West 239.30 feet; thence due North 256.18 feet; thence South 89 degrees 56’ East 223.83 feet; thence South 13 degrees 02’ 40” East 67.77 feet; thence due South 186.57 feet to the point of beginning. Including rights of ingress and egress to said premises from Cook Road. More commonly known as 985 Arthur Court, Hastings, Michigan 49058 The redemption period shall be six months from the date of the sale unless the property is deemed abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a in which case the redemption period shall be thirty days after the foreclosure sale or when the time to provide the notice required by subdivision MCL 600.3241a(c) expires, whichever is later. MILLER JOHNSON Attorneys for Hastings City Bank /s/ Rachel J. Foster Dated: July 24, 2012 By: Rachel J. Foster 303 North Rose Street, Suite 600 Kalamazoo, Michigan 49007 77569677 269-226-2982 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Michael S. Lutes, A Married Man and Suzette A. Lutes, A Married Woman as Joint Tenants, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 28, 2003, and recorded on August 4, 2003 in instrument 1110155, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Fifteen Thousand Two Hundred Twenty-Eight and 07/100 Dollars ($215,228.07). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on September 20, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 29, Mastenbrook's Subdivision, Yankee Springs Township, Barry County, Michigan, as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, Page 39. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 23, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #389949F02 77570254 (08-23)(09-13) AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTIFY US AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by Glen Tonnemacher and Nicole Marie Tonnmacher, husband and wife, Mortgagors, to BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., Mortgagee, dated the 24th day of May, 2010 and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, for The County of Barry and State of Michigan, on the 9th day of June, 2010 in Instrument #201006090005548 of Barry County Records, said Mortgage on which mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, the sum of Two Hundred Thirteen Thousand Eight Hundred Eighty & 98/100 ($213880.98), and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on the 6th day of September, 2012 at 1:00 PM o’clock Local Time, said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI (that being the building where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held), of the premises described in said mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due, as aforesaid on said mortgage, with interest thereon at 4.75% per annum and all legal costs, charges, and expenses, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sum or sums which may be paid by the undersigned, necessary to protect its interest in the premises. Which said premises are described as follows: All that certain piece or parcel of land, including any and all structures, and homes, manufactured or otherwise, located thereon, situated in the Township of Irving, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and described as follows, to wit: Lot 10, Prairie Acres, according to the plat thereof in Liber 6 of Plats, Page 39. During the six (6) months immediately following the sale, the property may be redeemed, except that in the event that the property is determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241a, the property may be redeemed during 30 days immediately following the sale. Pursuant to MCLA 600.3278, the mortgagor(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 8/9/2012 BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO BAC HOME LOANS SERVICING, LP FKA COUNTRYWIDE HOME LOANS SERVICING, LP Mortgagee FABRIZIO & BROOK, P.C. Attorney for BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO BAC HOME LOANS SERVICING, LP FKA COUNTRYWIDE HOME LOANS SERVICING, LP 888 W. Big Beaver, Suite 800 Troy, Ml 48084 248-362-2600 77570071 BOA FNMA Tonnemacher (08-09)(08-30) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Lisa Cahill, an unmarried person, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated December 5, 2001, and recorded on December 13, 2001 in instrument 1071314, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Thirty-Five Thousand Seven Hundred Eighty-Four and 64/100 Dollars ($35,784.64). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on September 6, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 22 of Country Acres as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 64, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #410246F01 77570059 (08-09)(08-30) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Stacy Jones, a single woman, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Polaris Home Funding Corporation, its successors or assigns, Mortgagee, dated August 17, 2007 and recorded August 27, 2007 in Instrument Number 20070827-0001341, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Six Thousand Nine Hundred Seventy and 12/100 Dollars ($76,970.12) including interest at 6.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 09/20/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 47 of Supervisor's Plat of the Village of Prairieville, according to the Plat thereof recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, Page 74, Barry County Records, being part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 2, Town 1 North, Range 10 West, excepting therefrom the East 127 feet thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: August 23, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 2485021600 File No. 682.1523 77570476 (08-23)(09-13) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF A MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on April 11, 2006, by Ronald A. Jones and Sally J. Jones, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, given by them to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on April 24, 2006, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 1163538, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank by an Assignment of Mortgage, recorded on October 12, 2010, in Instrument Number 201010120009483, which mortgage was modified by a Loan Modification Agreement recorded October 12, 2010, in Instrument Number 201010120009482, Barry County Records, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Six Thousand Eight and 80/100 Dollars ($126,008.80); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, September 13, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE CITY OF HASTINGS, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: The North half of Lots 2 and 3, Block 8, Daniel Strikers Addition to the City (formerly Village) of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof. Commonly known as: 825 N. East Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 Parcel Number: 08-55-095-053-00 The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: August 2, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933 (517) 37177570064 8253 (08-09)(08-30) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Mark R. Storey and Julie Ann Storey, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated June 25, 2004, and recorded on July 8, 2004 in instrument 1130551, and assigned by said Mortgagee to THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 200410 as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Nine Thousand Four and 37/100 Dollars ($99,004.37). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on September 13, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing At The Northeast Corner Of Lot Eleven Hundred And Fifty Six Of Said Plat, Thence North 4 Rods, Thence West 8 Rods, Thence South 4 Rods, Thence East To Place Of Beginning, Being A Part Of This Southwest One Quarter Of Section 17, Town 3 North, Range 8 West. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 16, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #407981F01 77570154 (08-16)(09-06) SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by JAY N. SCOTT, A MARRIED MAN and JEROME MEEHAN, A MARRIED MAN, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated December 2, 2005, and recorded on December 16, 2005, in Document No. 1157842, and re-recorded on June 21, 2011 in Document No./Liber 201106210006025, on Page 1, and modified, recorded December 29, 2010, in Document No. 201012290012081, and assigned by said mortgagee to Flagstar Bank, FSB, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Nineteen Thousand Eight Hundred Fifty-Five Dollars and Seventy Cents ($119,855.70), including interest at 4.250% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on September 6, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE SOUTH LINE OF SECTION 2, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 7 WEST, NORTH 89 DEGREES 16 MINUTES 39 SECONDS WEST 207.24 FEET FROM THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF SAID SECTION, THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES 16 MINUTES 39 SECONDS WEST 416.95 FEET, THENCE NORTH 01 DEGREES 15 MINUTES 21 SECONDS WEST 351.06 FEET, THENCE SOUTH 89 DEGREES 09 MINUTES 32 SECONDS EAST 629.73 FEET, THENCE SOUTH 00 DEGREES 21 MINUTES 23 SECONDS EAST 42.32 FEET, THENCE SOUTH 33 DEGREES 58 MINUTES 35 SECONDS WEST 367.39 FEET TO POINT OF BEGINNING. SUBJECT TO EASEMENTS FOR STATE HIGHWAY. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Flagstar Bank, FSB Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 FSB.004393 FHA (08-09)(08-30) 77570100 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 23, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Carol A. Crews and William D Crews Sr. aka William Delbert Crews, aka William D. Crews, wife and husband, original mortgagor(s), to American Express Bank, FSB, Mortgagee, dated November 19, 2004, and recorded on December 10, 2004 in instrument 1138504, and modified by Affidavit or Order recorded on May 17, 2012 in instrument 2012-00236, and assigned by said Mortgagee to PHH Mortgage Corporation as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Two Thousand Five Hundred One and 03/100 Dollars ($92,501.03). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on September 6, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Southeast corner of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 17, Town 2 North, Range 10 West, thence North 02 degrees 16 minutes 46 seconds West 200 feet, thence North 90 degrees West 104.3 feet, thence South 03 degrees 06 minutes 31 seconds West 200.14 feet, thence North 90 degrees East along Saddler Road 123.11 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #354808F04 77569945 (08-09)(08-30) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Robert E. Brady and Ruth E. Brady, as husband and wife and Gail K. Drew, as a single person, original mortgagor(s), to SBS Mortgage, LLC, Mortgagee, dated April 12, 2002, and recorded on May 1, 2002 in instrument 1079740, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ninety-Six Thousand Five Hundred Seventy-Three and 63/100 Dollars ($196,573.63). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on September 13, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Combining of Lots 43 and 44 of Streeter's Resort, according to the recorded Plat thereof on file and of record in the Office of the Register of Deeds for said Barry County, State of Michigan and also conveying the following land: beginning at a point at the Northwest corner of Lot 43, running North 3 degrees 15 minutes West to the center of the Highway known as Oakleigh Drive; thence North 86 degrees 45 minutes East along centerline of said Highway 106 feet; thence South 3 degrees 15 minutes East to the Northeast corner of Lot 44; thence running North 89 degrees West to the point of beginning, excepting therefrom a strip of land 33 feet wide off the North end thereof for Highway and a 10 foot strip of land off the South end of for alley purposes, all being in the Southeast 1/4 of Section 29, Town 3 North, Range 10 West, Township of Yankee Springs, County of Barry, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 16, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #408410F01 77570189 (08-16)(09-06) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Jason A. Hobbs, aka Jason Hobbs, an unmarried man, to Fifth Third Mortgage- MI, LLC, Mortgagee, dated July 11, 2006 and recorded July 20, 2006 in Instrument Number 1167398, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Fifth Third Mortgage Company by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ten Thousand Two Hundred Thirteen and 47/100 Dollars ($110,213.47) including interest at 6.75% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 09/20/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Property situated in the Township of Barry, County of Barry and State of Michigan, described as follows: A parcel of land in the East 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 28, Town 1 North, Range 9 West, described as beginning 777 feet North of the center of said Section 28, for place of beginning, thence West 198 feet, thence North 95 feet, thence East 198 feet, thence South 95 feet to the place of beginning, Barry Township, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: August 23, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 200.9322 77570362 (08-23)(09-13) AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTIFY US AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by Ronald P. Armour , , Mortgagors, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for Polaris Home Funding Corp., Mortgagee, dated the 27th day of February, 2007 and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, for The County of Barry and State of Michigan, on the 2nd day of March, 2007 in Liber Instrument#1176993 of Barry County Records, page , said Mortgage having been assigned to Green Tree Servicing LLC on which mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, the sum of Eighty One Thousand Two Hundred Fifty Nine & 62/100 ($81259.62), and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on the 13th day of September, 2012 at 1:00 PM o’clock Local Time, said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI (that being the building where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held), of the premises described in said mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due, as aforesaid on said mortgage, with interest thereon at 7.75% per annum and all legal costs, charges, and expenses, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sum or sums which may be paid by the undersigned, necessary to protect its interest in the premises. Which said premises are described as follows: All that certain piece or parcel of land, including any and all structures, and homes, manufactured or otherwise, located thereon, situated in the Township of Baltimore, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and described as follows, to wit: A PARCEL OF LAND IN THE SOUTHWEST 1/4 OF THE SOUTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 35, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST, DESCRIBED AS: COMMENCING AT THE SOUTH 1/4 POST OF SAID SECTION 35 AND RUNNING THENCE NORTH 00 DEGREES 08 MINUTES WEST 426.4 FEET TO A POINT IN THE CENTER OF BIRD ROAD, WHICH IS THE TRUE POINT OF BEGINNING, THENCE NORTHEASTERLY 212.9 FEET ALONG THE CENTER OF BIRD ROAD ON THE ARC OF A CURVE TO THE RIGHT OF RADIUS 284.78 FEET, THE CHORD OF WHICH BEARS NORTH 19 DEGREES 33 MINUTES EAST 207.97 FEET, THENCE NORTH 40 DEGREES 58 MINUTES EAST, 41.1 FEET, THENCE SOUTH 60 DEGREES 18 MINUTES EAST 203 FEET, THENCE SOUTH 10 DEGREES 04 MINUTES WEST 120 FEET, THENCE SOUTH 88 DEGREES 07 MINUTES WEST 252 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. During the six (6) months immediately following the sale, the property may be redeemed, except that in the event that the property is determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241a, the property may be redeemed during 30 days immediately following the sale. Pursuant to MCLA 600.3278, the mortgagor(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 8/16/2012 Green Tree Servicing LLC Mortgagee FABRIZIO & BROOK, P.C. Attorney for Green Tree Servicing LLC 888 W. Big Beaver, Suite 800 Troy, Ml 48084 248-362-2600 GTSD FNMA ArmourRon 77570199 (08-16)(09-06) NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE OF MORTGAGE CHARLES J. HIEMSTRA IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE IN THE MILITARY, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER LISTED BELOW. Default has occurred in the conditions of a Mortgage (“Mortgage”) made by Timothy K. Marlin, a/k/a Timothy Marlin and Kimberly S. Marlin, husband and wife, of 2710 Pine Trail Drive, Middleville, Michigan 49333, Mortgagor, to Lake Michigan Credit Union, a state chartered credit union, having its principal office at 4027 Lake Drive SE, Suite 110, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49546, which Mortgage was dated July 13, 2007, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on August 15, 2007 at Instrument Number 20070815-0000958. By reason of this default, the Mortgagee hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of said Mortgage due and payable immediately. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on this Mortgage the sum of Two Hundred Twenty-nine Thousand Four Hundred Forty-five and 41/100 Dollars ($229,445.41). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by this Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the Power of Sale contained in this Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, this Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part thereof, at public auction to the highest bidder at the East Steps of the Barry County Courthouse, 220 W. State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 that being the place of holding Circuit Court in said County, on Thursday, the 27th day of September, 2012, at 1:00 p.m. The premises covered by this Mortgage are located in the Township of Irving, County of Barry, State of Michigan and described as follows: EXHIBIT A Legal Description of 2710 Pine Trail Drive, Middleville, MI 49333 Parcel 2: That part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 32, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, Irving Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Commencing at the North 1/4 corner of said section; thence South 89 degrees 37 minutes 52 seconds East 974.70 feet along the North line of said Northeast 1/4; thence South 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds West 1187.69 feet along the East line of the West 60 acres of said Northeast 1/4 to the centerline of State Road; thence North 72 degrees 31 minutes 34 seconds West 172.30 feet along said centerline; thence south 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds West 287.34 feet to the place of beginning; thence South 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds West 140.00 feet; thence South 79 degrees 26 minutes 39 seconds West 412.61 feet; thence North 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds East 300.00 feet; thence South 78 degrees 11 minutes 16 seconds East 412.30 feet to the place of beginning. Parcel 3 That part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 32, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, Irving Township, Barry County, Michigan described as: Commencing at the North 1/4 corner of said section; thence South 89 degrees 37 minutes 52 seconds East 974.70 feet along the North line of said Northeast 1/4; thence South 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds West 1187.69 feet along the East line of the West 60 acres of said Northeast 1/4 to the centerline of State Road; thence North 72 degrees 31 minutes 34 seconds West 172.30 feet along said centerline; thence South 0 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds West 427.34 feet to the place of beginning; thence South 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds West 220.00 feet; thence South 79 degrees 26 minutes 39 seconds West 412.61 feet; thence North 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds East 220.00 feet; thence North 79 degrees 26 minutes 39 seconds East 412.61 feet to the place of beginning. Parcel 4 That part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 32, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, described as: Commencing at the North 1/4 corner of said section; thence South 89 degrees 37 minutes 52 seconds East 974.70 feet along the North line of said Northeast 1/4; thence South 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds West 1187.69 feet along the East line of the West 60 acres of said Northeast 1/4 to the centerline of State Road; thence South 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds West 264.0 feet to the place of beginning; thence South 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds West 300.77 feet; thence South 79 degrees 26 minutes 39 seconds West 168.26 feet; thence North 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds East 333.72 feet; thence South 89 degrees 15 minutes 46 seconds East 165.0 feet to the place of beginning. Subject to and together with an easement for ingress, egress and utility purposes over a 66 foot wide strip of land, the Easterly line of which is described as: That part of the East 1/2 of Section 32, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, described as: Commencing at the North 1/4 corner of said section; thence South 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds West 888.32 feet along the North-South 1/4 line of said section to the centerline of State Road; thence South 72 degrees 31 minutes 34 seconds East 441.0 feet along said centerline to the place of beginning of the East line of said 66 foot wide easement; thence South 01 degree 13 minutes 25 seconds West 960.59 feet to the place of ending of said easement. Tax Parcel No. 08-08-032-025-05 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale unless determined to be abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period will be as provided by MCLA 600.3241a. If this property is sold at a foreclosure sale by advertisement, during the period of redemption, borrower/mortgagor will be responsible to the purchaser or to the mortgage holder for physical injury to the property beyond wear and tear resulting from the normal use of the property if the physical injury is caused by or at the direction of the borrower/mortgagor. Dated: August 16, 2012 LAKE MICHIGAN CREDIT UNION MORTGAGEE THIS INSTRUMENT PREPARED BY: ______________________________ Charles J. Hiemstra (P-24332) Attorney for Mortgagee 125 Ottawa Ave., NW, Suite 310 Grand Rapids, MI 49503 (616) 235-3100 77570341 SYNOPSIS Hope Township Regular Board Meeting Aug. 13, 2012 5 Board members present. 9 guests. Regular meeting opened at 7 p.m. Approved: Agenda Previous Minutes Standing Reports Bills Recycle bin contract Purchase MMA Books Resolution 2012-18 Elimination of Sewer Board Roving member Repair & refinish Hope Township sign Request for reimbursement letter Delton Fire Dept. Letter to Prairieville Township Letter concerning Cloverdale Hope Township Park Purchase MTA Publications Adjourned 7:40 p.m. Submitted by: Deborah Jackson, Clerk Attested to by 77570352 Patricia Albert, Supervisor IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Mark J. Doctor and Shannon D. Doctor, husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated July 25, 2003 and recorded August 13, 2003 in Instrument Number 1110797, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Mortgage Center LLC by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-One Thousand One Hundred Fifty and 71/100 Dollars ($71,150.71) including interest at 4.625% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 09/06/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The land referred to in this Commitment, situated in the County of Barry, Township of Irving, State of Michigan, is described as follows: That part of the North 3/4 of the East 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 15, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, Irving Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Commencing at the South 1/4 corner of said Section; thence North 00 degrees 11 minutes 15 seconds East 655.01 feet along the East line of said Southwest 1/4; thence South 89 degrees 47 minutes 18 seconds West 286.0 feet along the South line of said North 3/4 to the place of beginning; thence South 89 degrees 47 minutes 18 seconds West 345.44 feet along said South line; thence North 00 degrees 05 minutes 37 seconds East 547.54 feet to reference point "A"; thence South 66 degrees 31 minutes 14 seconds East 377.06 feet; thence South 00 degrees 11 minutes 15 seconds West 396.00 feet to the place of beginning. Subject to and together with an easement for ingress, egress and utility purposes over a 66 foot wide strip of land, the centerline of which is described as: Commencing at the South 1/4 corner of Section 15, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, Irving Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence North 00 degrees 11 minutes 15 seconds East 1369.01 feet along the East line of said Southeast 1/4 to the place of beginning; thence South 89 degrees 47 minutes 18 seconds West 450.75 feet along the North line of the South 714 feet of the North 3/4 East 1/2 of said Southwest 1/4; thence South 47 degrees 37 minutes 18 seconds West 247.22 feet to reference point "A"; thence South 66 degrees 31 minutes 14 seconds East 220.0 feet to the point of ending of said easement; also over a 66 foot wide strip of land beginning at said reference point "A"; thence South 89 degrees 47 minutes 18 seconds West 220.0 feet to the point of ending of said easements. The redemption period shall be 12 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: August 9, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 393.0702 77570054 (08-09)(08-30) Case No. 12-141-CH CIRCUIT COURT SALE In pursuance and by virtue of a Judgment of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on the 17th day of July A.D., 2012 in a certain cause therein pending, wherein THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-9 was the Plaintiff and Teresa Herlein and Duane T. Herlein were the Defendants. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that I shall sell at public auction to the highest bidder, at public venue, at the Barry County Courthouse (that being the place of holding the Circuit Court for said County), on the 27th day of September A.D., 2012 at 1 o’clock in the forenoon, Eastern Standard Time, the following described property, viz: All certain piece or parcel of land situated in the Township of Thornapple, County of Barry and State of Michigan, described as follows: Lot 8, Near Lane Estates No. 1, as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats, Page 7, Barry County Records Tax ID: 14-140-0008-00 Commonly known as: 12942 Near Lane, Caledonia, MI 49316 This property may be redeemed during the six (6) months following the sale. Dated: August 9, 2012 Mark Sheldon Deputy Sheriff Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Ronald S. Glaser (P46986) Attorneys for Plaintiff 43252 Woodward Ave., Suite 180 Bloomfield Hills, MI 77570085 48302 (248) 335-9200 (08-09)(09-20) NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT; ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY SERVICE PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW. Notice under MCL 600.3278: Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale under MCL 600.3201 et. seq., the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. ATTENTION POTENTIAL PURCHASERS AT FORECLOSURE SALE: In the case of resolution prior to or simultaneously with the aforementioned foreclosure sale, U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate Trust 1998-7, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents may rescind this sale at any time prior to the end of the redemption period. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited to the return of your bid amount tendered at the sale, plus interest. Default having occurred in the conditions of a Mortgage made by Boyd J. Tobias, unmarried ("Mortgagor") to Green Tree Servicing LLC (f/k/a Green Tree Financial Servicing Corporation), dated June 11, 1998, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry in the State of Michigan on June 16, 1998, in Document Number 1013602, et. seq., said Mortgage being last assigned to U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate Trust 1998-7 ("Green Tree"), by Mortgage Assignment dated July 3, 2012, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry in the State of Michigan on July 11, 2012, in Document Number 2012-002080, et. seq., on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due as of the date of this Notice the sum of $84,112.67, which amount may or may not be the entire indebtedness owed by Debtors to Green Tree together with interest at 8.75 percent per annum. NOW THEREFORE, Notice is hereby given that the power of sale contained in said Mortgage has become operative and that pursuant to that power of sale and MCL 600.3201 et. seq., on September 6, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., on the East steps of the Circuit Court Building in Hastings, Michigan, that being the place for holding the Circuit Court and/or for conducting such foreclosure sales for the County of Barry, there will be offered at public sale, the premises, or some part thereof, described in said Mortgage as follows, to-wit: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF CARLTON, COUNTY OF BARRY, STATE OF MICHIGAN, IS DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: PARCEL 2: BEGINNING AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF THE SOUTHEAST 1/4 OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 32, TOWN 4 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST; THENCE NORTH, 17 FEET ALONG THE EAST 1/8 LINE; THENCE EAST 318 FEET PARALLEL WITH THE EAST AND WEST 1/4 LINE OF SECTION 32; THENCE SOUTH 137 FEET; THENCE WEST 318 FEET TO THE EAST 1/8 LINE; THENCE NORTH 120 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. SUBJECT TO AND TOGETHER WITH RIGHTS OF INGRESS AND EGRESS IN A PRIVATE EASEMENT 66 FEET IN WIDTH ACROSS THE NORTH SIDE OF ABOVE DESCRIBED PARCEL, THE SOUTH LINE OF WHICH IS COINCIDENT WITH THE NORTH LINE OF SAID PARCEL. which also includes any interest Green Tree may have in the 1997 Redman Mobile Home, Serial Number 143T0381. The redemption period shall be six (6) months unless the property is established to be abandoned pursuant to MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of sale or fifteen (15) days from the date the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(b) was posted and mailed, or unless under MCL 600.3240(17), prior to the foreclosure sale the borrower follows the procedure set forth in that section to establish the presumption that the property is used for Agricultural purposes, in which case the redemption period shall be one (1) year from the date of the sale. Dated: July 27, 2012 U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate Trust 19987, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents By: DONALD A. BRANDT (P30183) BRANDT, FISHER, ALWARD & PEZZETTI, P.C. Attorneys for Green Tree 1241 E. Eighth Street, P.O. Box 5817 Traverse City, Michigan 49696-5817 (231) 941-9660 File No.: 6140.1134 Ad #34618 77569806 08/02, 08/09, 08/16, 08/23/2012 �Page 12 — Thursday, August 23, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Synopsis ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING August 14, 2012 Meeting called to order at 7:00. All board members present. Approved minutes with corrections from the July 3, 2012 regular board meeting. Treasurer’s report read and put on file. Fire report read and put on file. Library report read. Parks and Recreation report read. Public Comment received. Approved paying Attorney James Olson to address township board and residents regarding hydraulic Fracturing in Orangeville Township. Approved hiring Bernie’s Haul Away for transfer station until end of fiscal year. Approved Township Board Resolution to Adopt Poverty Exemption. Approved paying of the bills. Approved motion to adjourn. Respectfully submitted, Jennifer Goy, Clerk 77570272 Attested to by Thomas Rook Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Barry Wilson and Albrey Wilson, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 25, 2008, and recorded on February 22, 2008 in instrument 20080222-0001662, and modified by agreement dated November 9, 2010, and recorded on December 9, 2010 in instrument 201012090011514, and assigned by said Mortgagee to EverBank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Six Thousand One Hundred Seven and 61/100 Dollars ($76,107.61). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 30, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 229, City of Hastings Barry County, Michigan as recorded in Liber A Page 1, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 2, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #406482F01 77569722 (08-02)(08-23) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Loretta Pezet, A Single Woman to Argent Mortgage Company, LLC, Mortgagee, dated July 29, 2005 and recorded August 22, 2005 in Instrument # 1151447 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Argent Securities Inc., Asset-Backed Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2005-W2, by assignment dated August 13, 2012 and recorded August 15, 2012 in instrument # 2012-003287 and by assignment dated October 28, 2010 and recorded November 2, 2010 in instrument # 201011020010188 and by assignment dated November 19, 2010 and recorded November 30, 2010 in instrument # 201011300011133 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Nine Thousand Three Hundred Twenty-Four Dollars and Forty-Six Cents ($109,324.46) including interest 2% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on September 20, 2012 Said premises are situated in Village of Freeport, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 4 of Block 1 of the Village of Freeport, according to the recorded plat thereof, Subject to easements, reservations, restrictions, and limitations of record, if any Commonly known as 157 Maple St, Freeport MI 49325 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 8/23/2012 Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Argent Securities Inc., Asset-Backed Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2005-W2, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our 77570489 File No: 12-63071 (08-23)(09-13) STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-26160-DE Estate of Janis D. Quada, Deceased. Date of birth: October 30, 1955. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Janis D. Quada, Deceased, died April 8, 2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Paul D. Quada, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court St., Suite 302, Hastings, MI 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: August 16, 2012 Neil L. Kimball (P36653) 900 Monroe Avenue, NW Grand Rapids, MI 49503 (616) 632-8000 Paul D. Quada 177 West Broadway Woodland, MI 48897 77570337 (269) 367-4040 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Mark C. Penrod, a married man, original mortgagor(s), to Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Mortgagee, dated May 28, 2008, and recorded on May 30, 2008 in instrument 20080530-0005733, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Nineteen Thousand Four Hundred and 76/100 Dollars ($19,400.76). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on September 6, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 6, Block 11, H.J. Kentfield's Addition, according to the plat thereof recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 9 of Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #347961F02 77560047 (08-09)(08-30) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Steven F Meyers, a married man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated December 6, 2007, and recorded on December 10, 2007 in instrument 200712100005034, and modified by agreement dated May 4, 2010, and recorded on June 25, 2010 in instrument 201006250006087, and assigned by said Mortgagee to MidFirst Bank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Five Thousand Three Hundred Twenty-Eight and 14/100 Dollars ($75,328.14). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on August 30, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North 1/2 of Lot 1099 of the City, formerly Village of Hastings according to the recorded Plat thereof recorded in Liber A, Page 1 of Barry County Records and the West 4 rods to Lot 3, Block 20 Eastern Addition according to the Plat thereof recorded in Liber A of Plats, Page 2 of Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 2, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #402824F01 77569801 (08-02)(08-23) STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF KENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS DECEDENT’S TRUST In the Matter of Carroll J. Wolff Trust No. 1. Date of Birth: 9/5/1930. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Carroll John Wolff, who lived at 307 Center Court, Nashville, Michigan 49073 died February 22, 2012 leaving the above Trust entitled “Carroll J. Wolff Trust No. 1” in full force and effect. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the decedent or against the Trust will be forever barred unless presented to Marjorie A. Wolff within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: August 16, 2012 John M. Huff P29062 333 Bridge Street NW, Suite 800 Grand Rapids, MI 49504 (616) 459-1171 Marjorie A. Wolff 307 Center Ct. 77570339 Nashville, MI 49073 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Tony Astuccio a single man, original mortgagor(s), to ABN AMRO Mortgage Group, Inc., Mortgagee, dated October 3, 2002, and recorded on November 7, 2002 in instrument 1091196, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Six Thousand Nine Hundred Twelve and 79/100 Dollars ($66,912.79). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on September 13, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 17, Hilltop Estates, according to the recorded plat thereof as recorded in Lbier 5 of Plats Page 74, Barry County Records The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 16, 2012 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #392640F01 77570194 (08-16)(09-06) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Nicholas S. Pifer and Tina M. Pifer, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 21, 2004, and recorded on June 21, 2004 in instrument 1129582, and modified by Affidavit or Order received by and recorded, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Six Thousand Two Hundred Twenty-Seven and 06/100 Dollars ($66,227.06). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on September 6, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Section 13, Town 1 North, Range 8 West, part of the Southwest 1/4, Commencing at the Northeast corner of the Southwest 1/4; thence West 793 feet to the point of beginning; thence South 200 feet; thence West 207 feet; thence North 200 feet; thence East 207 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #105480F02 77570076 (08-09)(08-30) USDA will bring changes to Delton Kellogg menus November millage request will be two-year renewal by David DeDecker Staff Writer Lunch choices will change in the upcoming school year, according to Delton Kellogg Food Service Director Alan Walker. He told the board of education at its Aug. 20 meeting about the new regulations by the USDA. “If you hear rumblings — which you will — we are not the only district in the state or country doing this,” said Walker. “USDA guidelines have changed many things in our program. They have left breakfast alone this year, but will go after it next year.” Walker told the board bread counts will be decreased by two, so some of the item servings such as pizza will become smaller or be eliminated. He said there is too much bread in the pizza. Breads and wraps on the salad bar will decrease, as well. “I have three spreadsheets I am required to average out for each school to show them every week the amount of calories, sodium, saturated fats, how many breads and proteins,” he said. “If we are not following the guidelines, they will take money away from us ... A lot of it is inaccurate anyway because they are assuming a kid is going to eat everything put on their tray.” The other change is that food service staff must put a vegetable or fruit on every student’s tray. “We have never had to force a fruit or vegetable on a student if they didn’t want it,” said Walker. “We are going to be offering a larger variety, so hopefully we can find something the kids won’t throw a fit over.” Walker said the Delton Kellogg food service is at about 70 percent whole grains with a requirement of 50 percent. He said next year no enriched products (white rice or white bread) will be served, and the requirement will be 100 percent whole grain. He said the problem with 100 percent whole grain products is an increased sodium content. Each year, there will also be a new requirement to lower sodium content, he added. Finally, Walker said the USDA will be randomly auditing and making visits to 25 percent of schools during the year. Also addressing the board, Delton Kellogg Elementary Principal Steve Scoville said the preschool enrollment for 3- and 4-year olds is filled and has a waiting list. Superintendent Paul Blacken presented the board goals for the upcoming academic year. Blacken said staff will return next week and school will start Wednesday, Sept. 5. He said the kindergarten enrollment is tentatively up for the year. Athletic events are already underway, he noted. The board approved the adoption of 201213 board goals with changes. Board member Paul Hughes voiced concern about the wording “and implementation” in goal No. 1. “It says we will support improvements when we don’t even know what they are,” said Hughes. The board agreed to omit the cited wording and approve the goals with Hughes’ change request. The goals include: The board will support the pursuit (and implementation) of facilities improvement for Delton Kellogg Schools. The board will focus the budget priorities on teaching and learning while maintaining a fund balance. The goal for the fund balance is 10 percent of the total budget. The district will implement, monitor and review the English/language arts, mathematics, social studies, foreign language and science instructional resources and continue the development of a standardized curriculum in those subject areas. The board will support the following academic goals: All students will improve writing scores on district and standardized assessments by 1 point, with the number of students scoring as proficient increasing by 5 percent; in mathematics, reading, social studies and science, the scores of all students taking standardized assessments will increase by two percent using standard reporting. In other business, the board: • Agreed to put the annual millage renewal of 18 mills on the Nov. 6 ballot. This millage renewal, however, will be for two years, instead of the previous one-year renewal, in order to align future renewals with the twoyear November election cycle. Board member Victor Haas was absent for the roll-call vote. • Approved purchase of a lot for the upcoming building trades house project. The board agreed to pay $20,000 for the lot on Osborne Road near a house built by previous trades students.. • Approved the hiring of Mark Nabozny as seventh and eighth grade girls volleyball coach; Sara Mast as middle school fall season games manager; and accepted the resignations of food service worker Julia Warner and bus driver Anthony Newton. • Approved the recall of elementary school teach Beth Herington for full-time. • Set graduation for the class of 2013 for Sunday, June 9, at 2 p.m. and the DK Academy graduation. Thursday, May 23, at 7 p.m. • Went into closed session for negotiations and student reinstatement. The next scheduled board of education meeting will be Monday, Sept. 17, at 7 p.m. in the elementary school. TURNING, continued from page 9 When the wagon train starts rolling into Hastings Saturday, Aug. 16, this is one team that will be well-trained and ready for the trip from downtown Hastings to Charlton Park, being made as part of the “Home-Town America” Festival. Making a trial run of the team is Minet Stanley. The wagon is equipped with pots and pans, a canvas cover and a water barrel, which makes it one of the most complete replicas in the area.s 9 a.m. – Wagon train forms at fairgrounds. 9 a.m. – Opening of Liberty Bell exhibit. Hastings City Bank parking lot. 9 a.m. – Opening of historical window displays, business district. 9:30 a.m. – Wagon train arrives at State Street for display. 10:30 a.m. – Wagon train departs for Charlton Park. (Route: State to Michigan Avenue to State Road to Powell to Center to Charlton Park Road to park.) 11 a.m. – WZZM TV observation balloon departs, downtown Hastings. 12 p.m – Wagon train arrives at Charlton Park for chuck wagon lunch. 1 p.m. – Opening of antique auto exhibit, State Street. Sunday 9 a.m. – Charlton Park Antique Auto Show. 9 a.m. –Horse show, Meadow Run Arena, south of Hastings on M-43. 12 p.m – Family picnic day, Tyden Park. Kids games, sponsored by 4-H Council. 1 p.m. – Industrial softball game, Tyden Park. 1 p.m. – Raft race from Center Road Bridge to Tyden Park, sponsored by C.A.C. The “storytellers” who spoke about the times in Hastings according to an Ag. 15 Banner article, included Don Fisher, an electrician by trade and longtime student of the War Between the States; Hubert Cook, who spoke about the development of the community from a struggling farm-supported village to a beautiful manufacturing village; Howard Frost, retired assistant manager at Hastings Manufacturing, who reflected on Hastings’ industrial history, beginning with the international Seal and Lock Company; and Richard Cook, former editor of The Banner, who discussed the development of business life in Hastings. [Hastings Area Community Activities Center] 77570290 LEGAL NOTICES �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 23, 2012 — Page 13 Maple Valley program will help students on different paths by Shari Carney Staff Writer Maple Valley School has launched an alternative program for students; Maple Valley Pathways Academy. The vision of Superintendent Ronna Steel and Principal Kristine Stewart is now a reality. From the premise that traditional schooling is not for everyone, Steel and Stewart designed a hybrid that offers online curriculum combined with an onsite mentor. Cindy Schwartz, teacher and mentor, will be available on site to answer questions and guide students. Three paths to a high school diploma is how Stewart describes the vision of Pathways. The paths are virtual, non-traditional and adult. The virtual path has home-schoolers in mind. These are students who are already familiar with online education but may benefit from additional guidance. The students will study and learn from home with assistance available via telephone, Internet chat, texting, Skype (an online video or chat program) or on site. Non-traditional students will be transition- ing from traditional classrooms to virtual education. The goal will be to get each student off to a good start by requiring six hours in the designated classroom each week, initially. Each week likely will see a decrease in time required once students are established, said Stewart. The third pathway will be for the adult learner who is seeking a high school diploma. Steel is looking into a segment of society currently not in a degree-completion program: inmates jailed in Barry County. Talks are progressing, and there is interest, said Steel. Inmates would be supplied computers to learn in a virtual environment. Maple Valley would capture full-time equivalent dollars for the district by expanding outside of the area, and inmates would be served by earning a high school diploma. “I am very excited,” said Schwartz. “We will have many students going in many directions. I think it will be great.” She added the goal is to be successful. An overview of Pathways was given in an informational meeting Tuesday, Aug. 14, and the audience was offered the chance to ask Emergency vehicles and railroad crossings What is the law about getting over for emergency vehicles and what is considered an emergency vehicle? In March of 2001, the Michigan Compiled Law was amended to better protect emergency personnel working on our roadways. Authorized emergency vehicles are defined as vehicles of the fire department, police vehicles, ambulances, privately owned motor vehicles of volunteer or paid fire fighters or volunteer members of an emergency rescue unit authorized by the fire department, sheriff or Michigan State Police. The law requires that when a motorist is approaching and passing a stationary authorized emergency vehicle with flashing, rotating or oscillating red, blue or white lights, the driver shall exhibit due care and caution. This is further explained that the driver shall move LEGAL NOTICES SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by JACK C. GREEN, MARRIED and SUSANNE E. GREEN, MARRIED, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated January 26, 2005, and recorded on February 14, 2005, in Document No. 1141418, and assigned by said mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thousand Eight Hundred Thirty-Three Dollars and ThirtyThree Cents ($100,833.33), including interest at 6.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on September 20, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: LOT 5 AND THE EAST ONE-HALF OF LOT 6 OF BUR-MAR ESTATES PLAT NUMBER 1, HASTINGS TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN BEING PART OF THE SOUTHEAST ONE-QUARTER OF SECTION 20, TOWN 3 NORTH, RANGE 6 WEST, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF, BARRY COUNTY RECORDS. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 77570500 JPMC.000724 FNMA (08-23)(09-13) into a lane at least one moving lane away if there are at least two lanes for the same direction of travel, if possible to do so. If the driver is unable to move into another lane of travel due to weather, road conditions or presence of other vehicles or pedestrians in the parallel lane, or if there is only one lane for the direction of travel, the driver shall reduce and maintain a safe speed when passing the emergency vehicle. This law applies on any public roadway in the state of Michigan, not just freeways. The law provides that a person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not more than $500 or imprisonment for not more than 90 days, or both. If a violation causes injury to a police officer, firefighter or other emergency personnel, it is a felony with a $1,000 fine and two years’ imprisonment. If it results in death to emergency personnel, it is a maximum $7,500 fine and 15 years in prison. In the seven years preceding the enactment of this law, the Michigan State Police had three troopers die in the line of duty as a result of being struck by passing vehicles. It is extremely dangerous working on the highways, assisting motorists or responding to crashes. Drivers are urged to use caution whenever approaching any vehicles or pedestrians along the roadway, regardless if they are emergency vehicles. I’m wondering about railroad crossings. I see people crossing when the lights are working but the train isn’t close by or isn’t moving. Will I be ticketed if I cross? When you approach a railroad crossing with a visible electric or mechanical signal giving warning of the approach of a train, you must first stop your vehicle between 15 and 50 feet from the nearest rail. From this point, you shall not drive a vehicle through, around or under a crossing gate or barrier while the gate is closed, being closed or being opened. If there is no gate but an audible signal, you shall not proceed if there is an approaching railroad train plainly visible and in hazardous proximity to the crossing. And finally, you shall not proceed if an approaching train is within approximately 1,500 feet of the highway crossing and giving an audible signal or the train, by reason of its speed or nearness to the crossing, is an immediate hazard. As for a motorist crossing when the train isn’t moving, this would be permissible under the last example, if it is not an immediate hazard due to its nearness and no gate has been lowered. Of course, there are rail crossings with two or more sets of train tracks, and view of the other tracks may be blocked by a stationary train. Be aware that a train could be approaching the crossing on one of these other tracks but not yet be visible. Many people die at railroad crossings each year by not following these precautions. This is addressed in Michigan Compiled Law section 257.667. A person who violates this is responsible for a civil infraction. If you have a question, send an email to waylandpost@gmail.com or call 269-7922213 ext. 364. questions. Stewart facilitated the meeting. “This will not be a Maple Valley High School diploma,” said Stewart “[The diploma] will say Maple Valley Pathways Academy.” The end result is the same, she said, since state requirements must still be met. Pathways, an online independent study program, will utilize web-based Education 2020 curriculum and Michigan Virtual University coursework. E2020, a national program, meets the standards for Michigan and beyond, said Stewart. The administration office board room, located next to Maple Valley Junior/Senior High School, will house Pathways Academy. The room is being readied with computer stations. Hours of operation will be Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Each prospective student will have an enrollment interview to determine what progress has been made toward a diploma and what must be met. An individual program plan will be developed for each student to attain degree requirements. “This is not a one-size-fits-all,” said Stewart. “We will be asking ‘How do we get you to the diploma?’” Stewart’s career at Maple Valley began three years ago in the alternative education program when it was housed at Kellogg School. Stewart, who lives in Carson City, said her daughter will be a student at Pathways. As a family she, her husband and daughter decided to try virtual education last year. “She fought school, hated school,” said Stewart. “She is a junior this year.” In looking back over the past year, the format change has worked very well, said Stewart. “She found a lot of success. It was a good pace for her. If she wanted to hear what the teacher said 10 times, she could rewind and hear it again.” “I have a passion for kids who’ve not found success,” said Stewart. “I believe everyone can be successful under the right conditions.” When asked how the academy came about, she said after the program at Kellogg School was shut down, she wrote and designed a pro- gram to save money by moving alternative education to the high school. Laid off last year and cut back to two evenings per week, Stewart worked at a virtual academy in Charlotte. “Ronna approached me last January,” said Stewart, “[asking ‘What do you think we can do?’” Taking what worked the best and what could be improved upon from the experience in Charlotte, Stewart, in conversation with Steel, agreed a hybrid was needed — a hybrid to meet the needs of the virtual learner and the non-traditional student. The name Pathways Academy came from a meeting with Finance Director Darryl Sydloski, Steel and Stewart. “We were discussing how many paths are needed and Ronna suggested, ‘What about Pathways?’” said Stewart. “I hope people understand ‘virtual’ does not mean ‘easier,’” said Stewart, who is currently working on a master’s degree in educational leadership. She is in a blended classroom and a virtual environment and expects to complete the program in the winter. “We are also exploring a lot of requests for [kindergarten] through [fifth grade] from home-schoolers,” said Steel. “We will provide 100 percent of the curriculum and the testing.” “We’ve got to think differently,” added Steel. “In reality, these children will enter a world we don’t even know. It is inconceivable the amount of technology and innovations that are happening every day. This is a very great endeavor. Change is difficult, and I admire the parents who are willing to take this journey with us.” Chrome perfection The engineering artistry of a 1959 Cadillac provided a highlight to the recent car show at Charlton Park. (Photo by Lori Silsbee) Finishing touches Decorative light posts and rounded concrete decking add to the character of the new Michigan Avenue bridge. The previous concrete bridge stood for 63 years. Workers tend to finishing touches on the Michigan Avenue bridge late Wednesday afternoon. Stamped concrete has been added to the street to complement similar decorative brickwork around downtown. �Page 14 — Thursday, August 23, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Hastings man recovering from hit and run Police seek help from public The Barry County Sheriff’s Department has been investigating a July 21 hit-and-run traffic accident involving a 20-year-old man reportedly struck by a vehicle as he was running on Barber Road near Culbert Drive. Reportedly, the accident resulted in multiple injuries to the runner, including a skull fracture and punctured lung. The hit-and-run is believed to have occurred at approximately 1:15 a.m. Detectives are still working on the case and need the public’s help. Anyone with information regarding the accident is asked to call the Barry County Sheriff’s Department, 269-9484801. Car bombing in Orangeville being investigated Michigan State Police are investigating an explosion that occurred Saturday, Aug. 18, around 10:45 p.m. in Orangeville. The annual Orangeville Days celebration was drawing to a close when a car parked outside the Gun River Inn in Orangeville exploded. MSP investigators believe it was no accident and know an explosive was delib- erately placed in the vehicle. Witnesses say the blast blew the door and windshield off the hot rod. People reported hearing the detonation two miles away. As of press time, the state police were unable to release any further information on the investigation, but said they have suspects. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 Recreation Automotive Estate Sale 2008 FLHX STREET glide H.D. Detachable accessories, new stereo with CD, 16k miles, $17,500, (269)945-5571. 2003 CADILLAC ESCALADE: loaded 85,000mi. 20”/wheels, 6 disc CD player, Boise System, leather heated seats front & back. $14,000 (269)945-5571 ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are interested in leasing acreage for this years deer season. Call (269)795-3049 Sporting Goods RUGER MINI 14, 223, many extras, $500, (269)275-3826. For Sale AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 CENTRAL BOILER CLASSIC OUTDOOR WOOD FURNACE- Provides safe heat. 25 year warranty. Great summer sale. Call SOS your ”Stocking Dealer” Dutton, MI (616)554-8669 or (616)915-5061. DON’T PAY HIGH heating bills. Eliminate them with an Outdoor Wood Furnace from Central Boiler. D-2 Outdoor Wood Boilers. (616)877-4081. OPTIMAL MEDICAL STAFFING Current Openings RN/LPN PRIVATE DUTY Nashville/Marshall/Springport/Jackson Trach/Vent Experience Preferred FT/PT – NIGHTS/days ************************ HHAs/CNAs 77570481 Battle Creek, Kalamazoo, Jackson areas (including Albion, Homer, Three Rivers, Galesburg) FT/PT – days/nights Please send letter or resume to: recruiter@optimalstaffing.com or fax to: 517-394-7716 Garage Sale RICK TAYLOR’S DETAIL WORKS. The only professio- GARAGE SALE: FRIDAY, nal detail service. Call August 24, 8am - 4pm. Lots (269)948-0958. of kids clothes. 1831 N. Briar Hill Dr., Hastings Garage Sale ARTIST & FASHIONISTA UNLOAD: Clothes, shoes, beads, jewlery, household, scooter, glass corner office desk, 503 Indian Hills, 10am5pm Sunday August 26th. BIG YARD SALE! ‘74 Cadillac Eldorado convertible; steel tracks for 10” tire; hoist lift for wagon, complete; 18’ Shorelander boat trailer, nice; jewelry, tools, sewing machines, old slot machines. Something for everyone. 8/30, 9am-6pm, 8/31, 1pm6pm, 9/1, 9am-6pm. From Bradley- go south on 10th Street, first road to the right, 128th turn right, cross tracks, 3rd place on right. From Shelbyville- go north on 10th Street to 128th Ave., make a left, cross tracks, 3rd place on right. National Ads THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is deceptive, fraudulent or might otherwise violate law or accepted standards of taste. However, this publication does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the quality of goods or services advertised. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made in any advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you ask for money in advance of delivery of goods or services advertised. ATTN: LOCAL PEOPLE needed to work from home online. $500-$4500 per month. Please call 1-888-6724954. HASTINGS BANNER SUBSCRIPTIONS are available for $35 per year in Barry County. Call (269) 9459554. HUGE POLE BARN SALE! Lots of tools, many are Craftsman. Generators, band saws, circular saws, air guns, Inline muzzleloader 50cal., too many to mention! Also several long guns. Thurs., Fri., Sat., August 23rd, 24th, 25th, 9am-5pm. 5538 E. Orchard, Delton. 6/10 of a mile east of downtown Delton. Call for better directions (269)209-5064 or (269)6235983 MULTI-FAMILY GARAGE SALE: August 23rd thru 25th 9am-5pm. 410 E. Walnut, Hastings. . Business Services BASEMENT WATERPROOFING: PROFESSIONAL BASEMENT SERVICES waterproofing, crack repair, mold remediation. Local/licensed. Free estimates. (517)290-5556. BOOKKEEPING SERVICES Personal * Self-Employed * Small Business Payroll * Billing Accounts Receivable * Accounts Payable General Ledger Weekly * Monthly * Quarterly * Annually Call today! (269)420-5714 PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits POLICE BEAT Employee walks off with security system A Hastings business manager called police Aug. 13 to report a possible internal theft. According to the management at Second Hand Corners, someone had called to say one of their employees had been taking things from the store. The caller identified the location of several items belonging to the store. Store management went to where the employee lived and found numerous items, some still with store identification. The same day the suspect went to the store to return one of the items. Hastings officers then arrested the 23-year-old Hastings man. One of the items taken was a security system which the suspect claims to have paid for, but for which he had no receipt. Woman escapes house to report assault Hastings officers spoke with a 33-yearold Hastings woman Aug. 12 at city hall. She reported being physically assaulted. The woman said she and her friend had been arguing Aug. 10 at a residence in the 600 block of West Green Street about a Facebook issue, and she was suddenly assaulted being struck several times. The victim said her companion, a 37-year-old Hastings man, had been in the house for two days, and she did not attempt to leave until he went to work. The victim displayed numerous injuries consistent with the reported assault. Officers located the alleged attacker as he drove home from work. When questioned about his whereabouts at the time of alleged assault, the suspect said he was “getting a pizza.” The suspect was arrested. Bike enthusiast’s chances are deflated Aug. 10 Hastings officers were called to the Michigan Avenue bridge construction site for a possible breaking and entering of the Ace Hardware store on East State Street. The caller reported he observed a subject leave the Ace Hardware pushing a bicycle, and he also had observed a broken window in the front of the store. The caller was reportedly following the suspect, who was pushing the bicycle across the new Michigan Avenue bridge. Several officers converged on the area and spoke with the 23-year-old Hastings man. The suspect admitted he had taken the bike from the store and agreed to take officers to an unused warehouse where he had hidden five additional stolen bicycles. The man admitted he had been drinking and said he hoped to get caught because he “had nothing else to do and felt this was a way to be able to speak with the cops.” He also later admitted to letting the air out of the tire of a patrol vehicle, parked nearby at the police station. He was arrested for the felony breaking and entering. beers with his friends. A breathalyzer test registered .16 percent blood alcohol level. The man was arrested and his license plate was confiscated due to previous issues with drinking and driving. ‘Crazy’ people chase man from store Hastings Police were called to the Hastings Family Fare Store Aug. 17 around 11:30 a.m. for a possible shoplifting. Store employees had chased the 23-year-old Hastings man out of the store believing he had stolen liquor from the store in the past. Store personnel had observed the suspect enter the store’s bathroom with a bottle of liquor and then leave the store without any sign of the bottle. Store employees quickly located the mostly empty bottle of alcohol in the restroom and pursued the man on foot. As police units arrived in the area, a sheriff’s deputy saw an individual running. The man was stopped, identified by store personnel, and arrested. When questioned by police, the man said he was being chased by “crazy people.” Evidence recovered at the store revealed that the alcohol bottle had been punctured in the restroom, and virtually all of the contents drained out. Ex removes air conditioner to deliver sandwich Four Barry County Sheriff’s Deputies responded July 28 to a breaking and entering in progress on West Grey Court near Gun Lake. Central Dispatch informed the deputies en route that a 58-year-old Wayland man was at the residence yelling and removing a window-mounted air conditioner. Upon arrival deputies learned the suspect had left the scene in a silver minivan. A deputy made contact with the homeowner, who also is the suspect’s ex-wife. The woman said the suspect had come to her home uninvited, but she did not let him into the house. He tried to get in through the air conditioner window, but could not. He then went to a second window with an air conditioner and was successful in removing the unit, when the front door was opened. Witnesses said the man entered the residence through the front door. Allegedly, he then pushed his ex-wife to the floor. The woman’s friend, who was visiting, then stepped between the two and the man pushed her down. The suspect then reportedly threw another friend into a table and struck that person, then left the residence. The victims said the man would possibly be at his home in Allegan County. Central Dispatch alerted Allegan County deputies and requested they take the man into custody. Allegan deputies arrested the man and transferred him to Barry County deputies at the county line. The man said he had gone to the house to give his ex-wife a sandwich and help with moving. He said the air conditioning unit simply fell out of the window and he was the one attacked. He denied pushing his ex-wife. He wanted to report the woman’s two friends for assaulting him. A report has been forwarded to the prosecutor’s office. Stranger claims to Cash theft is be a frequent visitor Hastings officers were dispatched Aug. left standing 15 on an unwanted person complaint in the 500 block of West State Street. The caller said that an unknown woman had entered the home without permission. Officers arrived to find an intoxicated 44-year-old Richland woman on the premises. The homeowners told police they did not wish to file formal charges, but wanted the woman to leave. When officers spoke with the woman, she said she had been to the home, invited, several times before. The homeowners said they did not know the woman. Officers questioned the woman about a glass pipe they had seen her place in a tin container and then in her purse when they first arrived. As the officer pulled the glass pipe from the tin, the woman exclaimed it did not belong to her. While being questioned, the woman grew progressively loud, and was told to quiet down. She was arrested for possession of marijuana. A blood alcohol test registered .28 percent at the jail. Further investigation into the woman’s past revealed she was on probation. Man admits to just a couple of beers Hastings Police were dispatched to the 400 block of East Clinton Street Aug. 16 around 11:20 p.m. for a possible drunk driver. A caller reported a car being “all over the road” and traveling at about 10 miles per hour. Officers spotted the vehicle and observed it run over a curb while making a turn. After being pulled over, the 43-yearold Hastings driver had trouble finding his wallet upon request. The man admitted to driving from Wayland after having two Deputies were called to Broadway Road in Freeport Aug. 15 for a reported theft of about $30 cash from a vegetable stand. The caller told deputies cash had been taken from her stand over the past two week’s time from the vegetable stand at the end of her driveway. When she noticed cash disappearing, she began marking the bills in the cash box with a yellow marker and checking the box after each customer. She said at one point a greenish blue mini-van pulled up and a man of about 200 pounds with dark brown hair looked at all the vegetables, but did not buy. When see went to the stand and checked the cash box the money was gone. The case is currently inactive. Missing wife defends man down the road A man called the Barry County Sheriff’s Department Aug. 16 to report his wife missing. He told deputies his wife was giving him a back massage around 10:45 p.m. at their Butler Road home. When he awoke two hours later, she was gone. No vehicles were missing, and his wife’s shoes were still at home. Deputies checked the home, outbuildings and property without finding the woman. The man then informed deputies he and his wife previously had argued about her befriending a 41-year-old Nashville man. He had told the man to stay off his property and asked his wife not to associate with the man. The man lived two miles down the road, but the complainant doubted his wife would walk down there in bare feet. He gave deputies a description of the man’s truck. Deputies proceeded to drive to the subject’s home, and encountered the described vehicle heading their way. The missing wife stepped out of the vehicle and walked toward the patrol car. A deputy asked the driver for his driver’s license, but he had none. Deputies asked the man if he had any weapons and he said he did. A deputy making a pat-down search of the subject found nothing but noticed the odor of alcohol. When asked where the weapon was located the man said the .22 caliber rifle was in the back seat. A deputy located the weapon which had a loaded chamber and magazine. The wife pleaded with deputies to let the man go and said God had wanted her to read the Bible to him. She said he had previously been sent to prison by mistake. The driver registered a .116 percent on his breathalyzer test and was arrested. The man’s truck had an improper license plate and no insurance. The man was lodged at the Barry County Jail for operating while intoxicated, third offense; carrying a concealed weapon; possession of a firearm by a felon; driving and while license revoked, second or subsequent offense. Warrants for sexual offender registry violation, improper registration plate, and no insurance or security on vehicle are being sought. The case is open pending prosecutor’s review. Hastings streets will be temporarily closed Saturday The Hastings Police Department would like to remind citizens that the city will be alive with a variety of activities the morning of Saturday, Aug. 25. Beginning at 8:30 a.m. with the 10K and 5K runs, and the 9:45 a.m. fun run. The runs will start and finish in the middle school area, and several of the streets will be closed in that part of town. The Summerfest parade begins at 12:30 p.m., and will start at East State Street near Hanover Street, proceeding down Apple Street to Church Street, then south on Church to State Street. The parade will then travel through the downtown area. The parade will close several streets on the east side of town, as well as around the downtown area. The Police Department requests motorists traveling in these areas to find alternate routes and remind them to be patient should they find themselves stuck in traffic. SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN Make online services ‘par for the course’ by Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist For many retirees (and near-retirees), there is nothing they look forward to as much as a day on the golf course. The game recently has been made more pleasurable by the use of computers and GPS technology. A hand-held electronic unit acts just like a personal caddie, providing quick and accurate yardage information — and much more. It saves time, as well as mental and physical effort. So golfers should be among those retirees and soon-to-be-retired to recognize the value of technology in other aspects of life, such as Social Security’s online services. Just by logging onto www.socialsecurity.gov, you can handle such Social Security business as: • Applying online for retirement, disability or Medicare benefits. • Getting a personalized estimate of future benefits with our Retirement Estimator. • Accessing your Social Security Statement online. • Changing your address or phone number in Social Security records once you start receiving benefits. • Signing up for or changing direct deposit. One thing golfers everywhere hate is slow play — waiting on the tee box, and then waiting again in the fairway. While we can’t eliminate waits on the golf course, going online to www.socialsecurity.gov can eliminate the time you would spend sitting in traffic or waiting in lines at an office. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 23, 2012 — Page 15 Couple of seniors ready to lead Delton boys’ team by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Seniors Zach Haas and Jarryd Calhoun will lead the Panther varsity boys’ cross country team both on and off the course this fall. Both guys have been in the Delton program for four seasons. Haas raced in the state finals with the Panthers as a sophomore, and earned All-KVA honors as a junior last fall. Calhoun has competed mostly at the JV level in the past, but is ready to step up and contend for a spot at the front of the varsity pack. “Our two seniors have great leadership skills, which will be needed to guide this relatively young and inexperienced team,” said Delton Kellogg head coach Dale Grimes. “We are looking forward to an exciting season.” Grimes said Calhoun has been training extremely hard this summer, and is coming off a great track season, and that Haas has show an “unsurpassed work ethic over the past three seasons.” The pack they’ll be looking to lead The 2012 Delton Kellogg varsity girls’ cross country team. The 2012 Delton Kellogg varsity boys’ cross country team. Middle duo returns to power Panther volleyball includes juniors Jacob Morgan and Tony Dallavalle, junior Dylan Kelley. Grimes said the work ethic of all three shows him that they are ready to be contributors to the varsity team. Senior Alex Stevens is new to the program and will also be contending for a varsity spot. “We have a solid group of runners, and should have a deep pack finishing races,” Grimes said, “but we need to establish the number three, four and five runners who can be consistently depended on. These places will ultimately be the determining factor in the success of the team this season.” With constant improvement the Panthers hope to contend for a Kalamazoo Valley Association championship and a spot in the Division 3 State Finals. They just missed on both of those goals a season ago, placing second in the KVA and finishing fourth at their regional meet. The season starts for Delton Kellogg when it heads to the Lawton Trail Relays Saturday. DKHS photos by Mike Wertman The 2012 Delton Kellogg varsity volleyball team. by Brett Bremer Sports Editor A handful of holdovers will try and keep the Panthers on top. The group of returnees will be led once again by head coach Jack Magelssen, who’s entering his eighth season leading the Delton Kellogg varsity volleyball team. The Panthers were 47-11-1 a year ago, advancing all the way to the state semifinals in Class C after winning district and regional titles as well as a Kalamazoo Valley Association championship for the fourth straight year. Alisha Vanderwoude is back for her fourth season with the varsity. Vanderwoude and sophomore Faith Ferris, who’s back for second varsity season, will make for a dynamic front line for the Panthers. They’ll both see time in the middle and on the outside. Also back are junior outside hitter Kaysie Hook, junior outside/defensive specialist/set- WILLIAMS-GORES FUNERAL HOME ter Rachel Parker, sophomore DS/Libero Hannah Phommavongsa, and junior setter/outside Kanoelani Chaffee. That group of girls are all likely to see their roles increase a bit. Newcomers, Kristen Mohn, Sarah Cleven, Hayleigh Sexton and Hannah Walker will also be looking to add their talents to the varsity this fall. Magelssen said he sees this team as a group of nice kids who are “willing to put in the time.” It will take some time for everything to gel though. The Panthers are still working on their ball control skills, and looking to find some leadership and gain some experience. The hope is that by the end of the season the team is ready to challenge for its fifth straight KVA championship. Pennfield and Parchment are likely to be the biggest obstacles between the Delton girls and another league championship. SCRAPALOO DK girls looking to match success from last fall by Brett Bremer Sports Editor There’s a chance the Panthers can repeat the kind of success they had a season ago. But they are trying not to leave things up to chance. The Delton Kellogg varsity girls’ cross country team won a Kalamazoo Valley Association championship a year ago, and followed that up with a regional championship as well in Division 3. The team went on to finish 21st at the state finals, the team’s third appearance in the state finals in the past four seasons. “The six girls returning from last year’s state qualifying team are very intent on qualifying again and improving the team’s finish position,” said head coach Dale Grimes. “The team is also intent on earning a second KVA championship. “The fact that we have decent depth on this team and that the team is made up of what is essentially a large core of returning athletes who contributed significantly to last season’s KVA and regional championships is resulting in a highly motivated group that is focused on repeating those accomplishments.” The six returnees from last year’s state qualifying team are seniors Brianna Russell, Christi Boze and Liz Jackson, juniors Sarah Rendon and Marceline Stevens and sophomore Sammi Cleary. Russell earned All-KVA honors in each of her first three varsity seasons, and is ranked fourth on the Top Ten list of Delton Kellogg varsity girls’ cross country runners all-time. Boze was All-KVA a year ago, as was Stevens. Rendon earned All-KVA honorable mention last fall. “Christi Boze and Liz Jackson are both training harder and running better than at this time in previous years,” Grimes said. “Both have continually improved since their freshman year, and we are looking forward to great seasons from these seniors. “Juniors Sarah Rendon and Marceline Stevens look to increase the pressure at the front of the pack. Both of these girls ran extremely well at the end øf the 2011 season and specifically at the state final.” The Panther pack will be pushed by a couple freshmen, Riley Scoville and Megan Grimes who have both had very successful middle school seasons. The Delton girls open their season at the Lawton Trail Relays Saturday. Team set to cheer on Panthers from the sidelines The 2012 Delton Kellogg varsity sideline cheer team. Now Under New Ownership NAPA OF DELTON 126 Orchard, Delton Larger inventory, more in-stock parts 623-4804 BUCKLAND AGENCY 11235 Sprague Rd, Delton TUJAX TAVERN 623-8310 PIZZA 623-6201 KATIE & CHRISTY’S MID-LAKES SCREEN PRINTING • MONOGRAMMING ACTIVE WEAR & TANNING SALON “Where Scrapbooking is Fun!” 10090 S. M-43, Delton behind Delton Floral 110 W. Center, Suite B, Hastings 623-7310 948-3720 M-43, Delton New Kitchen - Fantastic Food! www.mid-lakes.net Wall Lake Cottage Rentals 121 E. Orchard, Delton 11320 S. M-43 Hwy, Delton DELTON FAMILY PHARMACY HERB DOSTER PHOTOGRAPHER DELTON FLORAL & GIFTS DELTON POLE BUILDING Joseph C. Roth, DO, John D. Kehl, PA-C, Boe L Bissett, PA-C 338 Grove St. (M-43)Delton 13266 Enzian Rd. Delton 10120 S. 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M-43 Hwy, Delton 623-6301 Family Consignment M-43 Hwy, Delton - inside DELTON SUDS LAUNDROMAT 623-5385 �Page 16 — Thursday, August 23, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Strength of Delton Kellogg football is along the lines Delton Kellogg’s varsity football team will kick-off the 2012 season for the entire Kalamazoo Valley Association. All five games of the KVA’s third annual KVA Football Classic are going to be played Saturday at Waldo Stadium on the campus of Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo. The Panthers open the season against Constantine at 10 a.m. The Falcons, led by returning running back Payton White, are expected to be one of the best teams in the KVA again, along with Schoolcraft, Pennfield and Olivet. The Delton Panthers hope to start working their way up towards that class, after going 36 in the conference in head coach Ryan Bates’ first season. Some of the Panthers’ top returnees are along the lines, with Dakota Warren, Hunter Chilton and Devin Kalee returning. Warren earned honorable mention All-KVA honors last fall as a junior. Blocking will be important for the Panthers’ Wing-T offense, with an all new backfield due to graduation losses. Zach Leinaar will step into the quarterback role after being one of the Panthers’ top receiving threats a year ago. Cole Ritchie will step in to a half back slot for the Panthers. Most of the Panthers’ top players will be going both ways. Sophomore Austin Smith will step up at tight end, but also look to lead the defense from his linebacker spot. Smith and Ritchie were two of the Panther varsity The 2012 Delton Kellogg varsity football team. Roush settling in as varsity boys’ soccer coach at MVHS The 2012 Delton Kellogg varsity boys’ soccer team. DK working to replace top two scorers from last season Much of the skill is in the midfield, with the return of senior Zach Young and sophomores Lucas Hansen and Cole Mabie and the addition of sophomore Mark Ordway. Young, Hansen and Cole Mabie are a few of the key returnees to the Delton Kellogg roster, along with senior defender Branden Robbins. They are a part of 20 guys who are back from a season ago. With that kind of depth, the Panthers hope to be in contention to finish with a record above the .500 mark and towards the top of the Kalamazoo Valley Association standings. While there is skill across the field, the Panthers did lose a couple of very skilled goal scorers to graduation in the spring, the team’s top two scorers from last fall. “We will need someone to step up and fill this void,” said coach Mabie. Delton hasn’t quite found those players yet. The Panthers were shut out in their first two games of the season, falling to Bangor 3-0 Monday after an 8-0 loss to Harper Creek Friday. The Panthers don’t have a lot of time to get ready for the tough KVA season. Delton meets league favorites Hackett Catholic Central and Kalamazoo Christian early on in the slate. They take on the Comets Sept. 5 and the Irish Sept. 10. team. He spent three seasons coaching the boys at Barry County Christian High School, and another season coaching the girls’ team. He said that practice has been going all right so far. He has a handful of experienced players back, and he’s doing his best to get the juniors and seniors to use their experience to help the youngsters out, not only sharing skills but also building trust between the teammates. Roush said he wants his team to “play fast and smart, with a little more ball control rather than just kicking the ball. I want guys to go to a spot for a reason, and to pass to a spot for a reason.” There is still another week for the Lion team to build its skills before the start of the season. Maple Valley opens action at Leslie Monday, Aug. 27. The Lions’ first home game will be played Aug. 30 against Dansville. Read The BANNER every week! Copies conveniently available on newsstands throughout the Barry County area. TYDEN PARK • SATURDAY AUG. 25TH 77570287 by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Delton Kellogg varsity boys’ soccer coach Alan Mabie feels like this team has more skill across the entire field than in the past few years. “Before we had one or two skilled soccer players and a lot of good athletes, now we have ten or 11 skilled soccer players,” said Mabie. “We will have good speed at every position on the field.” by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Maple Valley’s varsity boys’ soccer team has its third coach in the past three seasons, as Andy Roush takes over the program this fall. Roush is happy to be able to be around the game of soccer and happy to be able to give a little more of himself to the community. “I just really enjoy the team aspect of it,” said Roush, who was officially hired on in July and began practice with the team last week. “It’s just a real fun game, and it can teach you a lot of life lessons. I had a lot of great coaches along the way, and it’s nice to be able to give something back. Hopefully, someday some of these guys will be coaching little kids themselves or even a varsity team some day.” Roush played soccer while attending Barry County Christian High School, and eventually was a sweeper for the Grace Bible College 77570284 77570302 $ COST… 25 per team of 3 or 4 players Entries must be to the Chamber by Friday, Aug. 17th CHECK IN… 8:30 AM Make checks payable to Hastings Summerfest 2012 Pick up T-shirts at this time TIP OFF… 9:30 AM Boys & Girls (Ages 12-14) Team Name ____________________ Boys & Girls (Ages 15-17) Men & Women (Ages 18-25) Men & Women (Ages 26 & up) Age brackets subject to change based on participation Team Captain___________________________________ Age _______ Send Entries to… Phone # __________________________ Team Members Age Age ___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________ 77569647 77570278 Please fill out form completely TYDEN PARK EYE & E.N.T. SPECIALISTS CENTER 1761 W. M-43 Hwy, Hastings (269) 945-3888 M-66 TIRE 7775 Saddlebag Lake Rd. (M-66) Lake Odessa 616-374-1200 DEWEY’S AUTO BODY 1111 W. Green, Hastings www.deweysautobody.com MacLEOD CHIROPRACTIC 327 W. Apple St. Hastings 948-3170 BOSLEY PHARMACY “A Full Service Independent Pharmacy serving Hastings & Barry County” 118 S. Jefferson, Hastings 945-3495 PRECISION AUTO BODY REPAIR 819 E. Railroad St. Hastings 948-9472 • COLEMAN AGENCY 312 E. Court, Hastings 945-3412 “Since 1908” HASTINGS Lake Odessa • Dimondale • Mulliken Pewamo • Westphalia Barry County Chamber of Commerce 221 W. State Street Hastings, MI 49058 Questions ??… Call (269) 948-3025 SATURDAY AUG. 25TH PERFORMANCE PLUS QUICK LUBE 430 W. State St, Hastings 948-8558 BRIAN’S TIRE & SERVICE 235 S. Jefferson, Hastings 945-9549 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 23, 2012 — Page 17 TK-Hastings has some of its top swimmers back The 2012 Hastings boys’ and girls’ cross country teams. HHS girls led by one of Gold’s best by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Hastings varsity girls’ cross country team has some experience and some depth this fall. There’s some talent too. Junior Trista Straube will lead the way for the Saxons once again. She qualified for the Division 2 State Finals after each of her first two varsity seasons, and was the runner-up individually in the O-K Gold Conference to Thornapple Kellogg’s Casey Lawson a year ago. There should be good battles when Straube and Lawson meet up again this season. They should see each other at the Thornapple Kellogg Invitational Sept. 10, and at Johnson Park Sept. 19 when the O-K Gold Conference gets together for its first set of league duals. Thornapple Kellogg and Grand Rapids Catholic Central are set to square off with the Saxons at that first league meeting. Perennial power Forest Hills Eastern is out of the league this fall, as is Caledonia, and that could even the playing field a bit. South Christian, Thornapple Kellogg and Catholic Central are likely to be the Saxons’ top competition for one of the top spots in the league standings come season’s end. The group of returnees behind Straube is solid, with seniors Haley Perkins, Olivia Rose and Taylor Carter back, along with juniors Rachel Rimer and Ariel Moore and sophomore Abby Laubaugh. The Saxons were scheduled to open competition Wednesday at the Lakewood Invitational, and won’t compete again until the TK Invitational at Gun Lake. Hastings is scheduled for just one home meet this season, an O-K Gold Conference jamboree Sept. 26. Seven letter-winners back to lead Saxons by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Saxon varsity boys’ cross country team is still pretty young, but most of the guys have at least one year of varsity competition in already. Hastings has seven of its nine letter-winners returning from a year ago, including sophomore Ronnie Collins, who was chosen as the team’s MVP a year ago. Also back are his classmates Chance Miller, Jacob Pratt and Brandon Gray as well as senior Garrett Bowers and junior Lucas Elliott. GOLE DENTAL GROUP Dr. Daniel Gole ~ Dr. Jason D. Gole Dr. Philip D. Gole 121 W. Woodlawn, Hastings “We look to be stronger than last year,” said Saxon head coach Steve Collins, who’s entering his third season leading the high school program. The Hastings boys were seventh out of eight in the O-K Gold Conference a year ago, and 12th out of 13 teams at their Division 2 Regional Meet. The competition shouldn’t be as tough in the O-K Gold Conference as it has been in recent years. Caledonia and Forest Hills Eastern had the two best teams of runners in recent seasons, and both are gone for new OK Conference Divisions. KING’S ELECTRONICS & APPLIANCES 130 W. State, Hastings 948-2244 945-4284 TRADEMARK REALTY, INC. WELTON’S HEATING & COOLING 305 S. Broadway, Hastings 945-0514 www.TradeMarkRealty.com WHITE’S PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO whitesofhastings@aol.com 945-3967 401 N. Broadway, Hastings 945-5352 MILLER REAL ESTATE 149 W. State St, Hastings 945-5182 BROWN’S CARPET ONE & CUSTOM INTERIORS GREEN LIGHT DRIVING SCHOOL LLC 208 N. Main (M-66) Nashville 517-852-0000 STATE FARM INSURANCE Paul Peterson 1215 N. Broadway, Hastings (269) 945-3431 115 S.Jefferson St, Hastings HHS photos by White’s Photography GEE & LONGSTREET LLP Attorneys at Law 607 N. Broadway, Hastings JOE & BARB’S SEPTIC SERVICE 328 S. Broadway, Hastings 3305 W. Quimby Rd, Hastings 945-3252 945-4240 50 N. M-37 Hwy, Hastings 945-3550 “Work with the people who make you Feel At Home” SEIF CHEVROLET BUICK PONTIAC 945-3495 HASTINGS NAPA 122 N. Jefferson Rd. Hastings 948-9696 632 E. Main St. Caledonia 616-891-8104 EDWARD JONES RADIOSHACK OF HASTINGS HASTINGS CITY BANK 614 W. State St, Hastings “Safe & Sound Since 1886” 150 W. Court St, Hastings 269-945-4800 945-2401 Mark D. Christensen, AAMS Financial Advisor 421 W. Woodlawn, Hastings ICS TRAVEL LITTLE CAESAR’S 128 E. Court St, Hastings 269-945-3553 www.icstravel.com Home of the Hot & Ready Pizza! 216 N. Broadway, Hastings 948-2824 WOMEN’S HEALTH FIRST, PC HASTINGS ORTHOPEDIC CLINIC BARRY COUNTY LUMBER 225 N. Industrial Park Dr. Hastings PROGRESSIVE GRAPHICS said Krueger. Sophomores Ashley Potter and Courtney Rybiski will be looking to earn spots in the varsity line-up for the first time, as will freshman Samantha Slatkin. The O-K Gold Conference is a little smaller this season, and should be a little easier with the loss of Forest Hills Eastern. South Christian should remain one of the top teams in the league, and Wayland brings a strong squad to the course as well. “With only five teams in the conference having golf, we would like to be in the top two,” Krueger said. The O-K Gold Conference season begins Sept. 6, with the league jamboree hosted by Grand Rapids Catholic Central at Quail Ridge Golf Course. The Saxons head to Battle Creek Lakeview for a tournament Friday, then will be back in action Monday at Railside Golf Club for the NorthPointe Christian Invitational. GIRRBACH FUNERAL HOME 100.1 FM Hastings 269-795-4230 by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Hastings varsity girls’ golf team has ended each of the past four seasons at the state finals. The Saxons would like to make it four for four. Hastings head coach Bruce Krueger said that he has a strong group of competitors on the team this fall. With all those state finals appearances in recent years, the group is experienced in high level competition. The Saxons reached the state finals a year ago as a team by winning a regional championship in Division 3, and went on to finish third in the state. That team was led by Gabrielle Shipley, a fourth-time All-State performer and the 2012 state champion who is now golfing for Grand Valley State University. This year’s Saxon team will be led by junior Kylee Nemetz, who earned All-State honorable mention in Division 3 as a sophomore. Also back to the varsity line-up are seniors Lindy Kloosterman and Amanda Sarhatt and junior Katie Brown. With even with all the experience and recent success, and maybe because of it, Krueger said one of the things his team needs to work on is confidence. “Sometimes we’re too hard on ourselves,” AT HOME REAL ESTATE 945-2963 4525 N. M-37 Hwy, Ste B, Middleville Saxons eye state finals again 945-9249 122 W. State St, Hastings FIRST REHAB part of the medley relay team which qualified for the state finals last year, along with seniors Schipper and Strumberger, and Bashore was an alternate for the race. Kroells and Bashore could both race in the individual medley this season, with Kroells strong in the freestyle and Bashore in the butterfly. Head coach Carl Shoessel said he expects to see good improvement from his team as the season progresses, saying that the girls work hard, have a great attitude and are highly motivated. The girls have some time to work to improve yet. They are scheduled to open their season at Unity Christian Sept. 11. Their first home meet is slated for Sept. 13, against Calvin Christian. The meet with Calvin Christian will be a tough one to open the league season at home. Schoessel said he expects Calvin Christian, Grand Rapids Catholic Central and Wayland all to be teams standing in the way of the Trojans and another run at a league championship. 948-8001 HODGES JEWELRY 221 N. Industrial Park, Hastings 945-2479 The competition should be a bit more balanced, with Catholic Central and South Christian appearing to have the early edge. The league season begins Sept. 19 when Catholic Central plays host to a set of league duals at Johnson Park. Hastings has a couple tune-up races before then. The Saxons were scheduled to open competition Wednesday at the Lakewood Invitational. They’ll race again at the Thornapple Kellogg Invitational at Gun Lake State Park Sept. 10. by Brett Bremer Sports Editor A new group of seniors are set to lead the Thornapple Kellogg-Hastings varsity girls’ swimming and diving team this fall. The graduation of a number of key seniors last spring will make having another perfect season tough. The TK-Hastings team was 9-0 in duals last season, won the O-K Rainbow Tier III Conference title, and won all three of the invitationals it entered. Back to lead the way from that “perfect” team are seniors Alexa Schipper, Emma Anderson and Emily Borden in the individual medley. Schipper is also one of the area’s top swimmers in the breaststroke, having qualified for the state finals in the event. Kayla Strumberger returns in the freestyle and backstroke events, Kaitlyn Telfor in the freestyle and the butterfly races, Katie Garber in the freestyle, Allison Esther in the butterfly and Alecia Czarnecki in the backstroke. The TK-Hastings team will also be expecting more good things from juniors Hannah Bashore and Kayla Kroells. Kroells was a 945-5110 10051 W. Green St. Suite G100, Hastings 1761 W. M-43 Hwy, Suite 2, Hastings 1108 W. State St. Ste 3, Hastings www.hoc-mi.com 840 Cook Rd. Hastings (269) 945-0922 (269) 948-PEDS (7337) (269) 945-8080 (269) 945-9520 Laura M. Doherty, MD & Laura J. Kota, MD �Page 18 — Thursday, August 23, 2012 — The Hastings Banner HHS girls set to put heart and hard work to the test by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Saxons are off to a great start under new head coach Valerie Slaughter. Hastings won Saturday’s Godwin Heights Invitational. Having an experienced team helps make a strong start possible. The Saxons are led this fall by a group of six seniors, including senior captains Rachel Quillen and Corrie Osterink. The group also includes Ally Owen, Nikki Redman and Christine Maurer. Quillen and Maurer return as middle hitters for the Saxons. Redman is back at her Libero position. Hastings will also look for contributions from new varsity players like junior Grace Bosma, sophomore setter Erin Goggins and senior Taylor Warner. Quillen and Maurer may have their work cut out for them at times, being slightly undersized middle hitters, but the Saxons have gotten used to making up for having a slightly smaller front line in recent years. “They make up for it with heart and hard work,” Slaughter said. She said her team has worked hard in the offseason and developed solid skill sets. The Saxons were scheduled to head to the Delton Kellogg Invitational Wednesday, and will be back in action Friday at Caledonia for the WMVOA Tournament there. The O-K Gold Conference season begins The 2012 Hastings varsity volleyball team. when the Saxons visit South Christian Sept. 6. Gold once again this season. The Sailors South Christian should be one of the top reached the regional finals in Class B a year contenders for a league crown in the O-K ago. Saxon singles players all have varsity experience by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The coaching situation has been somewhat up in the air for the Hastings varsity boys’ tennis program this fall. It looks like the Saxons are settling in though now, with Julie Severns moving over from the girls’ team and Ed von der Hoff set to return to co-coach at some point soon. Severns has enjoyed her time with the boys so far. “I love it,” she said. “The team has really come together and are working and competing just great. They’re wonderful.” It’s wonderful for any varsity tennis team to have its top player back, and the Saxons do this fall with the return of junior Connor von der Hoff at first singles. The singles line-up is full of varsity players from a year ago, with Chris Doxtader at number two, Drew White at third singles, and Ryan Thornburgh at number four. White played singles a year ago, while Doxtader and Thornburgh had spots in the doubles line-up. “They all are really good about getting together and playing matches. All four of them will get together,” Severns said. There is a group of players settling into doubles spots, a group that includes Calvin Case, Daegan Mix, Jaeleel Richardson, Luke Domkee, James Isola, Matt Cliffo, and Marshall Cherry, as well as freshmen Adam Schaeffer, Scott Garber and Ben Anderson. “The freshmen have brought a lot of excitement and enthusiasm to the team,” Severns said. The team opened its season with a sixthplace finish at the eight-team Northview Invitational last week. Case was the runner-up at fourth singles. Garber and Cherry at third doubles and Anderson and Schaeffer at fourth doubles each scored two points for the team as well. The Saxons followed that up with a fourthplace finish at the Plainwell Invitational Tuesday. Hastings was scheduled to host Ionia Wednesday, and will be in action again at the Caledonia Invitational Monday. The Saxons won’t have to worry about seeing the Fighting Scots, or the Forest Hills Eastern Hawks, in an O-K Gold Conference dual this season as both perennial league powers have left the league. There will still be tough competition from the likes of Grand Rapids Catholic Central and South Christian. The Saxons will look to be competitive with Thornapple Kellogg, Wayland and Ottawa Hills. The 2012 Hastings varsity boys’ tennis team. Saxons bring five guys back on the offensive front by Brett Bremer Sports Editor When asked for weaknesses of his 2012 Hastings varsity football team, Saxon head coach Fred Rademacher was being a bit sarcastic when he listed “coaching.” “We’re not perfect or anything, but we’ll find out when we get there,” Rademacher said. The Saxons will get there Friday night, when they open the 2012 season with a trip to Lakewood for their annual season starter with the Vikings. It might just be that it’s not easy to find a weakness at this point. The Saxons have seven starters back on defense, five starters returning along the offensive line, and a trio of running backs who rushed for over 1,500 yards as a group a year ago. The offensive line is anchored by senior Eric Hart, a three-year varsity starter, as well as seniors Stefan Horvat and Travis Sixberry. Senior tight end Michael Eastman is back up front as well. The trio of running backs searching for holes to bust through that line includes seniors Kenny Cross and Jon French and junior Stephen Shaffer who started as a sophomore. Shaffer led that group last year with 925 yards and 11 touchdowns, and never fumbled. Eastman and Hart will also anchor things from their linebacker spots on the other side of the ball, with help at that position from senior Jake Swartz. French will see time in the defensive backfield along with Cross who was the Saxons’ second-leading tackler last season. The defensive front returns seniors John Dinges and Sixberry, and junior Nate Pewoski who started a year ago. The Saxons were 7-3 a year ago, earning a spot in the state playoffs. Rademacher has the step-by-step list of goals mapped out for the team - “continue to improve every day, win our first game, win a league championship, make the playoffs and win out.” What it takes to win a league championship will be a little different than in recent seasons. Caledonia and Forest Hills Eastern are gone, leaving just five conference football games on the nine-game schedule. The Saxons have non-conference games with Lakewood, Hopkins, Forest Hills Northern and Hamilton. The Saxons close out the season with a tough league stretch, visiting Thornapple Kellogg, hosting Catholic Central and visiting South Christian in the final three games of the regular season. Rademacher said he expects Catholic Central and South Christian to be the two toughest teams in the conference this fall. The 2012 Hastings varsity football team. Saxon soccer plans to move up in Gold by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The strength of the boys’ soccer schedule in the O-K Gold Conference took a big hit with the recent realignment of the O-K Conference divisions. Perennial league contenders Caledonia and Forest Hills Eastern have moved on, evening out the playing field a little bit. Hastings varsity boys’ soccer coach Ben Conklin thinks his team has a good shot at stepping up and filling one of those holes in the top of the conference standings. “Our goal is to win the O-K Gold Conference, and make a run at the district championship,” said Conklin. There is experience spread across the field for the Saxons, especially up front where senior Maxwell Clark returns to play in the midfield or at forward. He is a fourth-year senior and one of the top returning players in the conference. Also back are a couple of seniors in their third year on the varsity, forward Ian Beck and midfielder Tanner Roderick. Senior midfielder Ben Kolanowski returns as well. Leading the back line will be senior defender Joey Siska and senior goalkeeper Travis Matthews. “Our team strengths include our speed at every position, as well as great possession skills that will allow us to control the flow of a game,” said Conklin. “Our defense is experienced and backed up by one of our returning goalkeepers from last year.” Juniors Stephen Kendall and Ethan Haywood will look to contribute on the defensive end, while juniors Brody Madden and Carson Williams will add their talents to the Saxon midfield. Conklin said one of the key things for his team to do this season is to stay focused and play at its full potential against all of its opponents. “We have a tendency to play down to our competition and get into closer games than we should,” Conklin said. That shouldn’t be a problem against the best the O-K Gold has to offer. The Saxons’ expect the top competition for the top spots in the league to come from teams like South Christian and Grand Rapids Catholic Central. Hastings opens league play at Wayland Sept. 11. The 2012 Hastings varsity boys’ soccer team. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 23, 2012 — Page 19 State News Roundup Feedback deadline nearing on state transportation plan Cheer team ready to root for Saxon varsity football The 2012 Hastings varsity sideline cheer team. Residents have just two weeks left to share their thoughts about revisions to the state long-range transportation plan with the Michigan Department of Transportation. The plan, also known as MI Transportation Plan: Moving Michigan Forward, is being revised through the year 2035. MDOT is winding down a series of 15 public meetings in communities across the state in August to obtain feedback on revisions to the plan. For those unable to personally attend, the presentation material and the draft transportation plan are available online at www.michigan.gov/slrp. Comments will be accepted online through Friday, Aug. 31. For more information, call 517-373-9534. The new Mackinac Bridge plate will gradually replace the state’s Spectacular Peninsula license plate. New license plates to make debut next year The Hastings varsity volleyball team celebrates its championship Saturday at the Jerry Fellows Memorial Tournament at Godwin Heights High School. Team members include (front) Sarah Taylor, (middle) row Becky Bernard, Nikki Redman, Erin Goggins, Corrie Osterink, (back) Rachel Quillen, Alli Owen, Grace Bosma, Christine Maurer, Taylor Warner and coach Val Slaughter. Saxon girls win their first tournament of the season The Saxons didn’t get down after a marathon of a first set. Allendale edged the Saxons 33-31 in the opening set of the championship match at Saturday’s Jerry Fellows Memorial Torunament at Godwin Heights. The Saxons though bounced back to win the next set 2518, and took the tournament title with a 15-3 win in the third set. It was the second third-set win of the day for the Saxons, who also scored a 22-25, 2521, 15-10 win over Wyoming Park in the semifinals. Overall, the Saxons were 4-0 for the day. They beat Allendale and Grand Rapids Union in their two pool play matches. Hastings head coach Valerie Slaughter said that her team played solid defense all day. Corrie Osterink led the way with 42 digs. Nikki Redman added 35 and Rachel Quillen 32. Quillen had a big day all around, adding five aces, eight blocks and 13 kills. Ally Owen led the Saxons’ offensive attack with 15 kills. Gace Bosma added 14. Erin Goggins had a team-high eight aces, as well as 21 assists. Christine Maurer chipped in six blocks. The Hastings varsity girls’ golf team finished seventh in the 15-team field at Monday’s Jenison Invitational, which was hosted by The Meadows on the campus of Grand Valley State University. Although the Saxons were seventh, they were without one of their varsity regulars, and were just two shots out of fourth place. Mona Shores took the day’s title with a 303. Forest Hills Eastern was second with a 337, followed by Forest Hills Central 369, Grand Rapids Christian 396, Hudsonville 397, St. Joseph 397, Hastings 398, Rockford 398, Reeths-Puffer 401, East Grand Rapids 403, Grand Haven 431, Spring Lake 441, Grandville 450, Unity Christian 469 and Jenison 490. The Saxons’ Kylee Nemetz fired an 83 to finish tied for seventh individually. Hastings also got a 96 from Lindy Kloosterman, a 98 from Katie Brown and a 121 from Courtney Rybiski. Hastings won its first dual of the season last Friday, over Lowell at Hastings Country Club. The Saxons outscored the Red Arrows 201 to 229. Nemetz led the Saxons with a 46, while Brown added a 49, Kloosterman a 50 and Ashley Potter a 56. Lowell was led by Sophie Kohtz’s 52. 02709611 HHS golfers seventh, but just shy of fourth at The Meadows Secretary of State Ruth Johnson unveiled two new license plates Wednesday, a colorful Mackinac Bridge plate and the Pure Michigan plate, which will eventually replace the state’s standard blue bar plate. Johnson, guests and media made a rare visit to the top of the bridge’s South Tower, which stands more than 500 feet over the blue waters of the Straits of Mackinac. “We figured there could not be a better place than one of the most familiar landmarks in Michigan — open for more than a half-century and traveled by 160 million cars — to celebrate these new plates,” she said of the suspension bridge that opened 55 years ago and is the third largest of its kind in the world. Michigan will move to a new standard plate that features a rolling blue wave and the Pure Michigan brand. Like the current blue and white standard plate, it will have a configuration of up to seven characters and will be available at no additional cost. Incorporating Pure Michigan on the state’s license plates is a way to reinforce the Pure Michigan brand message both in state and around the country. The Mackinac Bridge plate, which will gradually replace the state’s Spectacular Peninsulas plate, features the bridge against a sunrise background. It will also have the state’s Pure Michigan branding. The new Mackinac Bridge plate will cost $5 in addition to regular registration fees. Both new plates display the Pure Michigan logo at the top, replacing the block letter ‘Michigan’ on current plates. Residents are expected to be able to order a new Pure Michigan standard plate beginning The Pure Michigan plate will be the new standard license plate for Michigan. in early 2013 and the department of state will begin issuing the new Mackinac Bridge plates after that. Current Spectacular Peninsulas and standard plates will remain valid for the duration of their registration period. Detroit Manufacturing Systems celebrates grand opening Gov. Rick Snyder Wednesday led a delegation of state and local officials to celebrate the grand opening of Detroit Manufacturing Systems, and thanked the automotive components manufacturer for its investment and the new jobs it is bringing to Detroit. Detroit Manufacturing Systems is a joint venture organization formed by Faurecia Interior Systems Saline and Wayne-based Rush Group, owned by Andra Rush, a Native American member of the Mohawk Indian tribe. In December 2011, DMS announced plans to establish an automotive interior component manufacturing facility in the Gateway Industrial Center in Detroit. The company plans to invest $29.2 million and create approximately 572 jobs over the next five years. The Michigan Economic Development Corp. supported DMS with a Michigan Economic Growth Authority tax credit valued at up to $4.1 million. The Detroit Economic Growth Corp., on behalf of the city of Detroit, worked with DMS to secure a 12-year property tax abatement valued at approximately $4.2 million. GET MORE NEWS! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. �Page 20 — Thursday, August 23, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Waste hauler contract approved for Middleville by Julie Makarewicz staff writer Middleville Village Council members Tuesday approved a new three-year contract for trash and recycling collections with Republic Services of Jenison. The company currently provides services as the sole waste hauler contracted within the village. The village received three qualifying bids for the contract, with Republic submitting the lowest overall bid for customers. In addition to weekly waste collections, Republic will offer recycling to all customers. Currently, only about 30 percent of village residents participate in recycling. The recycling proposal will offer residents a 95-gallon container instead of the smaller recycling bins that have been used in the past. With the change, the recyclables will only be collected once per month instead of bi-weekly. In addition to offering the lowest rates, Republic officials said at Tuesday’s meeting they will provide services for the village’s See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits annual spring cleanup at no additional charge. Village Manager Rebecca Fleury said last year it cost the village about $1,800 based on the volume of items collected. “So, I say this is a good deal,” said council member Phil VanNoord. Council member Ed Schellinger made sure he heard the commitment about the spring cleanup correctly. “It’s a wonderful thing you’re saying to us,” he said. “It just seems hard to believe, so I just want to make sure I understood correctly.” Council member Shannon Endsley opposed the contract. “I just don’t think it’s fair to take the choice away from the community,” she said of mandating all residents to use the same waste hauler. Other council members said the reasoning for a single waste hauler is to limit truck traffic on village roads, reduce the number of days garbage is set out on curbs, and negotiate for better rates for all residents. In other matters, the village council: • Approved $100 for the Thornapple River Watershed Council to provide river cleanup “I just don’t think it’s fair to take the choice away from the community.” Shannon Endsley, Council member services in the village Saturday, Sept. 15. Volunteers will conduct a cleanup from Vermontville to Ada. • Granted special-event permits for the annual Thornapple Area Parks and Recreation Commission 5K and 10K runs during Heritage Days Sept. 8 and 9. • Approved a special event permit for Heritage Days. • Heard a report from Fleury suggesting the village investigate grant possibilities from Safe Routes to School to help with reconstruction costs of Green Lake Road. • Listened to Fleury discuss a possible joint planning alliance with the village and Irving, Yankee Springs, and possibly Caledonia townships. She said it may be important for the entities to work together in planning for future development. Fleury said she will be contacting officials in each of the townships to discuss how they can work together and if there is interest in some type of joint planning alliance. Fleury also reported that Michigan Department of Transportation officials have completed a traffic study at Crane Road and M-37 and that findings will be passed on to the signalization department in Lansing. 07607572 � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-08-29.pdf 49f0d1ecb07fd106333194e485ebc8e3 PDF Text Text County board reaches finish line on animal shelter debate Hope Township planners hit hot button Hastings overpowers Lakewood in opener See Story on Page 2 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 18 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 34 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, August 30, 2012 Group proposes city millage to save Riverside Cemetery NEWS BRIEFS Middleville to host Labor Day bridge walk The Middleville Volksmarch and bridge walk will take place Monday, Sept. 3, along the paved Paul Henry Thornapple Trail. Eight bridge crossings are among the walk. The event starts at the gazebo in downtown Middleville at 100 E. Main St., follows along the trail and then back again to the gazebo. Along the way are four bridges to cross in both directions for a total of eight crossings. The complete trail is about a 12K, but participants may chose to do a 10K or 5K instead. The walk starts anytime between 9 and 11 a.m., and participants must be finished by 3 p.m. Participants can walk, run, or jog. Strollers, wheelchairs, pets, bikes and roller blades are allowed on the trail but rollerblades and bikes are no eligible for American Volkssport Association distance stamps. Free hearing, vision tests available to students The Barry-Eaton District Health Department will offer free hearing and vision screenings for school-aged children Thursday, Sept. 6, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For an appointment, call 269-9459516. The health department is at 330 W. Woodlawn Ave., Hastings Commission on Aging hosting grandmothers’ tea The ninth annual grandmothers’ tea will be Saturday, Sept. 8, starting at 11 a.m. All grandmothers, mothers, daughters and friends are invited to attend the event at the Barry County Commission on Aging, 320 W. Woodlawn Ave., Hastings. The event will include a buffet of classic tea party food, music, a photograph of each group attending, a make-it and takeit craft project, hand massages and entertainment. This year’s entertainment will be a Mystery Dinner Theater presentation. The theme this year is “Color My World.” Each table will be decorated in a different monochromatic color scheme by staff and volunteers. Reservations are required by calling 269-948-4856. The cost is $10 per person and $5 for children 5 years and under. by Doug VanderLaan Editor They huffed and they puffed, but Hastings City Council members took a tentative first step Monday night toward assisting a local advocacy group committed to saving Riverside Cemetery from being assumed by the State of Michigan and permanently closing its gates. The threat has arisen due to the severe financial problems incurred over the years by the local cemetery corporation that oversees it and has been avoided only by the donations of benefactors who have contributed to its upkeep. Key to the request made by the Cemetery Action Group is the placement of a 1-mill, 20year millage issue on the May 2013 ballot to provide funds for operation, maintenance and improvements at the cemetery while the group works with the Barry Community Foundation to establish an endowment fund that, by the end of the 20-year tax levy, would assume the entire cost of cemetery operation. “You’re going to see more and more of this private funding as cities get strapped,” CAG spokesman Jim Wiswell told the council. “We’re not sending our money to Lansing or Washington and begging for it back. People will contribute, it’s a great story.” Wiswell’s remarks came during a board workshop preceding the regular council meeting. The CAG’s request was that the council initiate formal consideration of the plan at its regular meeting and direct staff to prepare the needed resolution for ballot language and legal language needed for operational and budget forecasting needs. Though they eventually approved the request on a 6-1 vote with Mayor Pro-tem Brenda McNabb-Stange casting the lone dissenting position, council members cast wary eyes, most ostensibly McNabb-Stange. “We’re only allowed as a city to levy 20 mils, tops, and we levy 16.2 mills now,” protested McNabb-Stange. “If we add this mill, we’ll be up to 17.2 mills, and I don’t know if we might need that one mlil in the next 20 years.” Councilman Barry Wood expressed concern about the amount of money that would have to be raised to spin off enough interest in endowment to cover the cemetery’s budget and if that could be accomplished in the 20-year window offered by the proposed millage. “You’d have to raise over a million dollars,” speculated Wood. “In 1996, the Barry Community Foundation started with $350,000 from a private foundation that had gone out of business,” said Bonnie Hildreth, executive director of the BCF. “Today, we have over $18 million, and that’s not a fluke — this is the most generous community in the world.” In presenting their proposal, Wiswell and Hildreth also pledged the group’s assistance in organizing and assuring passage of the 1.0 millage request, even though two similar issues have been defeated by voters in the past. “There were no drives to get it passed,” maintained Hildreth. “Without communication, nothing passes. Votes are passed by raising awareness, and we’re going to use the expertise of Carl [retired school superintendent Schoessel] to get it passed. “I am confident we can make it happen. We are going to get it passed,” she added. Despite the encouraging words, council members expressed additional anxiety about the group’s proposal that once the millage is See CEMETERY, page 13 Impact of educators and community on students topic at BIE luncheon by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer As a former teacher and board of education trustee, Doug VanderLaan, editor at J-Ad Graphics, which publishes the Hastings Banner and who recently wrote a series of articles featuring Hastings High School graduates, was uniquely qualified to give the keynote address at the annual Hastings Business, Industry and Education luncheon. VanderLaan said that the first day of school is more exciting and important than opening day for a professional sports or opening night in Hollywood or on Broadway because what teachers do in the classroom can change lives. “The first day of school is more satisfying than a World Series homer or an Oscar because your dedication to your profession and your investment in others will live forever,” he said to the educators. “You are in a meaningful occupation, more meaningful than some of those things society feels is valuable.” VanderLaan said that the series of articles he wrote featured ten Hastings High School graduates — five recent graduates and five who had graduated several years ago — was in response to concern over declining enrollment in Hastings Area Schools, some of which could be attributed to Schools of Choice. In discussion with Fred Jacobs, vice president of J-Ad Graphics, VanderLaan said it was decided that the best way to showcase the positive things that are happening in the district would be to feature the stories of graduates and how Hastings Area Schools helped to shape their futures. “The graduates we talked to — it’s amazing the futures they have before them, based on what they learned and what they were taught here,” he said. “What they were thankful for were the teachers who wrote specific suggestions on their homework, telling them how to improve. They appreciated teachers that started every class with a smile and showed that they were ready to teach. They appreciated teachers who organized real-life experiences, like the mock legislative session in Lansing — in the actual halls of our Senate and House. They appreciated teachers that loved music so much that they wanted their students to pursue and continue it, even if it wasn’t going to be their life’s work; and they appreciated the elementary school; because when the teachers saw a a student not being challenged, they were quick to put a project in front of them and not lose the momentum.” The graduates who have been out of school for some time exemplify how the lessons Doug VanderLaan, editor at J-Ad Graphics, speaks about how educators and the community at large can make a difference in the lives of young people. learned in high school, both in the classroom and out, have an impact on the a person’s life in the future, according to VanderLaan. “What came through was not only what the school taught, but what the community taught,” he said. “It went way beyond grades. It went way beyond awards. It went way Monthly legislative talks to begin The Barry County Chamber of Commerce will begin its monthly legislative coffee in September. The first coffee is scheduled at 8 a.m. Monday, Sept. 10, at the County Seat Lounge in Hastings with State Rep. Mike Callton. The gatherings are free and open to the public. Discussions provide an informal opportunity for state and federal governmental officials to keep the public informed on issues affecting Barry County. approved, the cemetery ownership would revert to the city. Though a perpetual care fund for the cemetery still holds $175,000, the city will assume full responsibility for all operations. A seven-member advisory board is also suggested with responsibility for oversight and conducting fund-raising activities which CAG suggests come through annual events, capital fund drives and estate planning. “It’s not our job to sell it,” said Councilman Dave Jasperse of the millage and the fundraising efforts, “but it will be a tough job for us to take over.” City Manager Jeff Mansfield assured council members that, in authorizing preparatory documents for a millage request, the council has not yet taken an official position. In other business, the council: • Approved a request from the Barry County Trial Court for use of Tyden Park Sunday, Sept. 9, from 6 a.m. to noon to allow a local youth group to conduct a film shoot. According to spokesperson Sgt. Donna Thomas of the Michigan State Police, the film Warm weather, hot cars make successful Summerfest Vehicles of all makes and models line downtown Hastings streets Sunday during the Summerfest car show. For more on this past weekend’s Summerfest activities, see several stories inside this paper. (Photo by Perry Hardin) beyond accolades, and that’s what is so exciting about the five that have had a experience in the real world.” Using the five older graduates, VanderLaan highlighted one lesson each of them learned either in the classroom or in the community. “You taught Jason Kaiser compassion,” he said and detailed how Kaiser was volunteered at a children’s hospital in San Francisco and later operated a playground in the city’s Tenderloin district before signing on for a 24month stint in the Peace Corps, during which he worked to improve the lot of impoverished widows in Ghana. VanderLaan quoted Kaiser, who said, “You may not have as many opportunities (in Hastings) as you have in a larger city, or a more affluent community, but it makes you appreciate what you do have, and it makes you want to share it with others.” VanderLaan said Joe Meppelink, a collegebound AP student learned resolve. “Through drafting classes and involvement in horticulture, Joe learned that intelligence doesn’t just reside in the mind, it also exists in the hands,” he said. Earlier this year, Meppelink was recognized by the Houston chapter of the American Institute of Architecture as its Artist of the Year for his work in architectural metalwork. John Shakespeare, a 2011 graduate, learned empathy while at Hastings, according to VanderLaan. “John wasn’t blessed with wealthy parents or a magnificent scholarship,” he said. “In fact, he had to delay college admission to save for his first classes. But John still considers himself privileged because he had two parents who loved each other. “What you gave John was a model on how everyone is accepted and valued in this school system,” said VanderLaan, “He told me, ‘I could tell that sometimes the best person that could help someone would be a peer and that See EDUCATORS, page 7 �Page 2 — Thursday, August 30, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Nearly 60 entries line up for annual Summerfest parade A group of musicians sits atop a flatbed truck, providing music to parade watchers. The float was provided by the Thornapple Arts Council. At Home Real Estate takes second place with this float, depicting the board game Monopoly. (Photo by Leo Hendershot) Harold Root and his Model A Doodle Bug take first place in the mobile division of the Summerfest Grand Parade Saturday (Photo by Rose Hendershot) The Thornapple Players leafy interpretation of the board game Jumanji is named winner of the Champion Float for Charity. (Photo by Leo Hendershot) As the Exchange Club’s Book of Golden Deeds 2012 recipient, Jim James is this year’s Summerfest parade grand marshal. “We heard several good comments on how the parade did not get stretched out and how everything flowed.” Brent Cowan Students from Barry Intermediate School District carry a billowing dragon to show their mascot, taking first place in the band or marching division of the Summerfest parade. (Photo by Rose Hendershot) Donna Brown is escorted through town during Saturday’s parade as Senior Citizen of the Year. The Thornapple Garden, with its play on Water Works from the game Monopoly, takes first place in the float division. (Photo by Leo Hendershot) 77569443 A total of 57 businesses, individuals, churches, service clubs, politicians and other groups assembled to form the Summerfest Grand Parade in downtown Hastings Saturday afternoon. The theme was board games or “Let the Games Begin.” Board games represented included various takes on Monopoly and The Game of Life, Twister, as well as single entries for Yahtzee, Jumanji and others. The winning floats were Thornapple Garden Club and At-Home Real Estate, in first and second, respectively, which had Monopoly themes; and Hastings City Bank, which took third place with its Olympicsthemed float. The Fifth/Third Champion Float for Charity, a special division through which the winning entry is given $150 to go toward its charity of choice, went to the Thornapple Players for their brush-covered interpretation of the game Jumanji. All other first place winners received $50. Taking first place in the band or marching division were the Barry Intermediate School District Dragons, followed by Mister Cool, a member of Magic Bus (the band that performed after the parade), and in third place was the Black Heart Maidens. In the mobile division, Harold Root’s Model A Doodle Bug took first place. Chemical Bank took second place with its float celebrating 95 years in business. The Bosley Pharmacy Med Bug, which originates on South Jefferson Street, joined the Apple and State streets parade and took third place in the mobile division. “We heard several good comments on how the parade did not get stretched out and how everything flowed,” said Brent Cowan, one of the parade organizers. Jim James of Hastings, this year’s winner of the Exchange Club’s Book of Golden Deeds Award, served as grand marshal. The Commission on Aging’s Senior Citizen of the Year was Donna Brown. Also joining the parade were Miss Delton and her court, as well as the 2012 Vermontville Maple Syrup Festival royalty. GET MORE NEWS! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 30, 2012 — Page 3 Hastings schools welcome new administrators by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer When students at Hastings Area Schools return to the classroom Tuesday, Sept. 4, they will find several new administrators in charge: Two new principals, an assistant principal, curriculum director and food service director — some of them familiar faces, and some of them new. Teresa Heide, who has taught math at Hastings Middle School for 23 years, said she is excited about beginning the new school year as the middle school’s assistant principal. “[I] feel very fortunate to continue my work with the students of HMS in this new role,” she said. Heide was born and raised in Hastings and attended Central Elementary, Hastings Junior High, and graduated from Hastings High School in 1983. She graduated from Michigan State University in 1987 and earned a master’s degree in educational leadership from Western Michigan University in 1992 and earned further credits in “The Art of Teaching” from Marygrove College. She is married to, Eric Heide, a fourth grade teacher in Lakewood. The couple have three children: Grant, 20, a college sophomore; Luke, 18, is a HHS senior; and Elizabeth, 13, an eighth grader at HMS. She has coached both boys and girls middle school basketball. “Family is very important to me, as we are often seen together at family barbecues enjoying each other’s company and great food,” she added. “I’m very much looking forward to my new role as assistant principal of Hastings Middle School and eagerly await the start of a new year,” Heide said. Matthew Moore, also a graduate of HHS, said he is looking forward to joining the district’s staff as the new food service director. “I am excited to be back in the community working with the Hastings Area School System staff,” he said. Moore brings more than 15 years of food service experience, ranging from the execu- Teresa Heide tive chef at Fountains of Bronson Place retirement community, to the production manager at Calvin College and the production manager for Spartan Stores central kitchen. “I am committed to making sure students in the Hastings school system receive a wellbalanced nutritional meal,” he said. Kevin Riggs, has been named principal of HHS. After graduating from Penn High School in Mishawaka, Ind., he graduated from Indiana University in Bloomington and earned his teaching certificate from Indiana University at South Bend. Riggs taught English at Northridge High School in Middlebury, Ind., for two years before returning to Mishawaka to teach English at his alma mater. He taught at Penn High School three years before becoming a dean of students there for two more years. During his time at Penn, Riggs completed his master’s degree in education leadership. Riggs then became assistant principal at Portage Northern for five years. He spent the last year as principal at Galesburg-Augusta High School. Matthew Moore “I enjoyed [Galesburg-Augusta], but I missed the opportunities that a bigger high school has to offer,” said Riggs. “There are advantages to being in a school with just 300 students, but working in a building with over 1,300 kids made for quite an adjustment.” Riggs’ wife, Karen, is a special education teacher in Portage. They have three cats and a dog. “I enjoy reading, golfing, running, the Cubs, and Notre Dame football,” he said. “We also love to travel as much as possible. We have family in South Bend and Chicago, and we visit them as much as possible.” Don Schils, was born and raised in Battle Creek where both his parents were educators in the Battle Creek Public School System and where he participated in all sports, particularly basketball and tennis. He began teaching in Hastings Area Schools immediately after his 1984 graduation from Central Michigan University where he majored in biology and minored in reading, while playing Chippewa tennis for four years. Schils spent his first three years in Hastings Kevin Riggs Area Schools teaching fourth, fifth and sixth grade at Pleasantview Elementary. “I then transferred to Northeastern were I have spent 25 wonderful years teaching mostly fifth grade math and science,” he said. “I also have been a coach in the Hastings High School basketball program for 22 years, with 19 as the varsity basketball coach. I am very excited to remain at Northeastern Elementary as principal to work with such phenomenal people (students, staff and parents).” William Trujillo, Hastings Area Schools’ new curriculum director, was raised and graduated from high school in Chicago, attended Purdue University where he earned a degree in industrial management and statistics. He returned to Purdue to earn a math master’s degree and teaching certification three years later. Trujillo taught math in middle and high school for 13 years before leaving to work at Purdue’s athletic department for the next 12 years. While at Purdue, he was head wrestling coach for eight years and served as NCAA compliance officer in charge of student serv- Don Schils ices for the department for four years before leaving to start his career in public school administration. During his tenure at Purdue, Trujillo earned his specialist degree in education. Trujillo served as principal in two districts in Indiana, the last having had student a student enrollment of 2,800. “After three great years, I accepted the high school principalship at [Muskegon] Mona Shores and after seven very good years left to assume a superintendent position at Cassopolis Public Schools,” he said. “I missed the kids and staff, so I accepted the principal’s position at Holland Public Schools where I retired in 2010.” During the first year of his retirement, Trujillo was asked to serve as interim principal at Muskegon High School. “I look forward to assisting Todd [Geerlings, superintendent] and all the fine people I have already met at Hastings,” he said. County Commission reaches finish line on animal shelter debate by Doug VanderLaan Editor Make room for ducks. That may be the new guideline at the Barry County Animal Shelter after county commissioners Tuesday approved the hiring of a director and authorized placement of the new position in a pay grade and benefits package of just under $67,000. The move, on a 7-1 vote with Commissioner Howard Gibson dissenting, came with plenty of acrimony and, after months of processing decision, with some last-minute histrionics. “I know I’m a lame duck,” said Commissioner Dan Parker, referring to his upcoming departure after not running for reelection in the August primary, “but I can still quack a bit.” What Parker quacked about, and what some fellow commissioners said they agreed with, was the contention that, when the commission July 24 approved a new management structure separating animal control and animal shelter function, the final result approved Tuesday would look somewhat different. “When I thought of a director, I was thinking of an entity to run the animal shelter,” said Parker, whose two objections centered on the new position’s cost. “We’ve totally ignored a 501(c)3, nonprofit program to run the shelter. I don’t know if that would work, but we haven’t even looked at it.” Parker mentioned a Muskegon animal shelter whose entire operation exists on an $88,000 stipend from the county and, through revenue and grant programming has created an additional $300,000. “They’re on their way to self-sufficiency,” said Parker, maintaining that the Barry County effort should be patterned in the same fashion. “I have to do my due diligence as a sitting commissioner.” Parker also questioned why the position, after an evaluation by Mark Nottley of Municipal Consulting Services LLC had recommended it be placed at a Grade 9 pay grade level, couldn’t be contracted out at a lower pay rate, than the top estimate listed in Tuesday’s proposal at $66,752. “Why do we have to pay that amount if someone with the same skills is willing to do it for less?” questioned Parker. “We haven’t done our total homework on this thing.” Though Gibson agreed and eventually voted against the proposal because he said that he felt the position should be placed at a managerial level rather than a director level, several of Parker’s colleagues agreed with his contentions, though they expressed reluctance to vote against the proposal. “This job description was developed over many, many months,” contended Commissioner Robert Houtman, “and every- one had plenty of opportunity — and took the opportunity — for input. There was also an attempt made by the [Barry County] Humane Society to put together a 501(c)3, but there was no one to come in — we didn’t even have anyone we could send an RFP [request for Proposal] to. “Most other counties that have 501(c)3s grew them out of necessity or negative situations. We don’t have that here.” Commissioner Ben Geiger who, early in the process, had expressed reservations about a director-led shelter appealed to Parker’s understanding of the political process. “I appreciate your concern for cost, and I agree with you, but none of us are getting what exactly what we want,” Geiger addressed Parker. “Leadership is compromise. I first voted against the proposal because I thought it was too much money. Now we’re getting as close as we can. “I think we can put in some benchmarks for the new director ... It’s up to us to hold them accountable, and it won’t be overnight. This has gone a long, long time, but now we see light at the end of the tunnel.” Commissioner Jeff VanNortwick justified his positive vote with the elimination from the sheriff’s department budget where shelter operations currently reside. “In my mind, the sheriff’s budget should be reduced by an equivalent amount to add to the administrative costs of putting the animal shelter back where it needs to be. That’s the truth and the transparency that needs to be put out here.” Commissioners were transparent not only in their final vote, but in their intent to make the newly voted arrangement a success. “I just thought that the job could be done at a managerial level. I’m a voice for taxpayers,” explained Gibson of his negative vote. “But I’m happy with the new arrangement because it’s going to mean less euthanasias and more adoptions. I’m willing to assist with the volunteers who are going to make this new system work.” Joyce Snow, the Republican winner in the August primary and who will face Democrat Barb Cichy for the District 3 seat, was another critic of the director plan. She added her assent following the vote during public comments. “Although I tend to agree with Commissioner Parker, going forward I’m willing to work with the Humane Society to make this a success,” said Snow, an offer that was immediately accepted publicly by Human Society President Kathy Wiggins. In other business, the board: • Approved the annual implementation plan for Region 3B Area Agency on Aging. Though part of a three-year plan, the document needs re-approval to update goals and See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits objectives of the coming year. • Approved a budget amendment increasing family foster care by $40,000 and decreasing institutional care by a similar amount. Approval of the amendment is required by the Michigan Department of Human Services. • Approved a grant providing $30,889 to 77570699 pay for a county emergency management coordinator position. • Approved an emergency management temporary planner position at a Grade 7 pay level as suggested by Nottley. The full-time position’s compensation will be covered as part of a federal grant that had been adminis- tered by Kalamazoo County on behalf of the 5th Congressional District. • Approved a budget amendment increasing general fund revenue and expenditure budgets for the current year by $1,587,270, reflecting a more positive performance on earlier annual budget estimates. �Page 4 — Thursday, August 30, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Hope Township planners hit hot button Summer monarchy Jodi White of Hastings recently captured this photo of a monarch butterfly landing for a sip of nectar from an Asiatic lily. We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Do you know? Two bridges ago Staff is taking the liberty this week to diverge from the mystery photos we’ve been running to share with readers this postcard photo of the iron truss bridge that spanned the Thornapple River, connecting two sides of North Michigan Avenue in Hastings. The photo, provided to the Banner earlier this year, appears to have been taken from the south side of the bridge, and slightly west, near the Hastings fire department. The vehicles look to be models from the 1920s. On the left is the building that now houses a law office and accounting office; next to it is a structure that no longer stands. The iron truss bridge, which was erected in 1886, was replaced with a concrete bridge that stood from 1949 to 2012. Do you know when this photo was taken? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a Have you little more information about the event to reunite the photos with their original clippings or identify photos that may never have been used. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@jadgraphics.com; or call 269-945-9554. Connie (Woodman) Haney said she immediately recognized her dad and two other farmers named in last week’s ‘Hay, There’ photo. Although she couldn’t pinpoint the year or whose barn was pictured, she said it was probably in the early 1950s and most likely a barn in Woodland. Such gatherings of neighbors for farm chores were not unusual. “They all helped each other,” she said. met? Dr. Lola Haller graduated from Lake Odessa High School in 1947. She attended Western Michigan College of Education where she earned a bachelor of science degree and elementary professional teaching certificate in education in 1954 and a masters degree in guidance and counseling in 1957. In 1967, she received a doctorate of higher education degree from Michigan State University. Haller’s post-doctoral work was in children’s literature at Michigan State University, University of Toledo and Southern Illinois University at Carbondale. Haller first worked at Algodon Rural School, teaching kindergarten through eighth grade for two years, then taught one year of kindergarten in Lake Odessa, Plainfield School in Grand Rapids, and Western Michigan University. Haller taught elementary methods and children’s literature and supervised student teachers for 23 years at Houghton College in Houghton, N.Y., until she retired in 1991. Haller was also a substitute teacher at Lakewood, Portland and Ionia schools after she returned to Lake Odessa. She continues to teach, not in her own classroom, but by volunteering at West Elementary in Lake Odessa, where she reads to children in the multi-age classrooms, as well as first and second grade serving as vice president. Haller plays piano at the Lake Odessa Congregational Church. Haller has always shown a great love of education and reading, and has shared her passion with many youngsters in the Lakewood community. She developed a program on Sarah Emma Edmonds Seelye, also known as Franklin Thompson, a woman from Flint, who served in the Civil War disguised as a male soldier. She has performed the program for students, as well as at other historical venues. Dr. Lola Haller classes, a total of six classes altogether. She has also been on the Lake Odessa Community Library Board, serving as it’s president for many years. Haller is active in the Ionia County Genealogical Society, If you won the lottery: I would give to my church, missions and to the library for a much-needed addition. Favorite book: I have many. Best trip you ever took: London, England. What do you love about Lake Odessa? My home and church, family, church family, library and many friends. Favorite heroine: My elementary teacher — same teacher for 7 1/2 years, Ila Erickson Swanson; an excellent teacher. Advice you’d give young men and women today: Work hard and get a good education, whether it is technical, businessrelated, skill-related or academic. Favorite song: I have many: “God on the Mountain,” “How Great Thou Art.” Last week, a group of concerned Hope Township residents filled their township hall to discuss a special-use permit that could impact lake property owners for years. Since Barry County is home to more than 350 named lakes, it’s not unusual for zoning officials to receive requests to expand lake access. For years, this newspaper has covered a number of stories relating to lake access that could threaten lake property owners with uncontrolled activity on the county’s lakes. That’s what happened when Hope Township planning officials met last week to revisit a special-use permit on Head Lake expanding a 1996 agreement for four recreational vehicles by adding six more units on a 2.1-acre partial. The special-exemption use permit approved at the March 22 township planning meeting allowed the property owner to place six additional recreational vehicles along with a portable toilet structure on the property for a two-weekend time that turned into a three-month period. What appeared to be a simple request grew into an issue attracting a large crowd to last week’s township planning meeting. Citing several violations with environmental and zoning ordinances, Robert and Mary Haak maintained that the board allowed a property owner to turn his property into his own campground. When Hope Township officials received the original request to allow a few recreational vehicles on the property, I’m sure they never imagined the impact their decision could make. I applaud officials for trying to fulfill the request of a property owner but, at the same time, they need to better understand the implications of their decisions. Barry County is blessed to have hundreds of lakes and streams, yet it adds a heavy burden for elected officials to maintain and protect our natural resources. Head Lake is a relatively small lake, so, by adding four to six additional recreational sites, it makes the request something that officials need more to study. They should have contacted the county health department, the Department of Natural Resources offices and maybe even the Barry Conservation District to better understand all the rules and implications involved in their decision. Government’s No. 1 responsibility is to solve problems. Part of that responsibility is gathering all the necessary information to make the best decision. I think it’s time for Hope Township Planning Commission to go back to the drawing board before the special Sept. 20 meeting because their What do you final decision could have implications for years. It’s important to be fair. Yet, rules and regulations are necessary if we expect to protect our property rights and the natural beauty of our county. Hastings celebrates another Summerfest success The end of summer and the beginning of another school year is marked each year in Hastings by the annual Summerfest celebration, held the last full weekend in August. This year’s event, billed with a proclamation of “Let the Games Begin,” along with the parade theme that promoted board games, marks the event’s 35th year. The grand parade Saturday afternoon attracted more than 60 floats, a band, Scouts, fire trucks and much more to downtown Hastings and entertained thousands of onlookers. For three days, families enjoyed games, food, entertainment and more by taking part in all the fun the annual event brings to Barry County. As expected again this year, the courthouse lawn was filled with food, games, arts and craft items of all kinds attracting kids of all ages. The annual event is probably the single largest festival in Barry County, drawing thousands from around the county and beyond to downtown Hastings in celebration of a community that cares. I don’t think it’s necessary to list all the events and volunteers who made it all possible, it would take a great deal of space and risk the chance that I might miss someone. It’s more important to acknowledge what it takes to put on a huge event. The courthouse lawn is barely cleaned up before a group of dedicated committee starts planning and preparation for next year’s festival. They make it a great opportunity for all of us to come downtown, mingle with friends and enjoy a list of quality entertainment – it’s what small towns do best. Congratulations Hastings. think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website, www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. Last week’s question: To ensure full state funding, most Michigan public schools are moving to allday kindergarten programs. Should kindergartners be required to attend school as fulltime students? 71% 29% Fred Jacobs, J-Ad Graphics Inc. For this week: Larger and more aggressive mute swans are depriving Michigan’s native trumpeter swans of nesting areas at alarming rates. Should Barry County assist the DNR in the removal of all mute swans from Barry County waters? Yes No The Hastings q Yes q No Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Bonnie Mattson • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 30, 2012 — Page 5 School begins next week for area districts Summer is winding down and local schools are gearing up for the start of a new year. State law mandates that school for traditional districts not begin until after Labor Day. Locally, some schools open the day after Labor Day, while other begin Wednesday or Thursday. Delton Kellogg Schools will open on Wednesday, Sept. 5, for a half day. Hastings Area Schools students return to the classroom Tuesday, Sept. 4. The district has lengthened the school year by five days but shortened each day by 10 minutes. The new student times are: High school 7:50 a.m. to 3:05 p.m.; middle school 8 a.m. to 3:10 p.m.; elementary 8 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. Lakewood Public Schools will begin Thursday, Sept. 6. Hours for the 2012-13 school year are, for the elementary buildings, 8:42 a.m. to 3:50 p.m.; middle school from 7:35 a.m. to 2:41 p.m.; and high school from 7:30 a.m. to 2:35 p.m. Maple Valley schools are back in session for the 2012-13 year Tuesday. The junior/senior high school begins at 8 a.m., Fuller Street Elementary at 8:20 a.m. and Pathways Academy at 9 a.m. Thornapple Kellogg Schools will open to students Tuesday. High school and middle school students will start classes at 7:40 a.m. and end at 2:25 p.m. The elementary schools are on a staggered start and end times. McFall starts at 8:40 a.m., Lee at 8:50 a.m., and Page at 9:05 a.m. The elementary school end times have McFall ending at 3:25 p.m., Lee at 3:35 p.m. and Page at 3:50 p.m. County clerk offers advice for write-in candidates Barry County Clerk Pam Jarvis reports that a significant interest in write-in candidates for the November general election, and passed along advice for prospective candidates. Individuals who wish to be considered as write-in candidates must file a Write-In Candidate Declaration of Intent by Friday, Oct. 26, at 4 p.m. with their local filing official. For village and township positions, the document must be filed with the local township clerk, and for county positions, the document must be filed with the county clerk. Write-in candidates may have obligations under the Michigan Campaign Finance Act, Jarvis said. An individual becomes a candidate when money is spent to purchase signs, mailers, or fliers, for example, to promote a candidacy. A Statement of Organization under Michigan Campaign Finance is required to be filed with the county clerk and, depending on the amount spent, may require additional documents to be filed. Potential candidates should be aware that they have 10 days to form a committee from the date they become a candidate and an additional 10 days to file the paperwork, or they will be subject to fines, she added. Questions regarding compliance can by directed to the clerk’s office. Jarvis indicated that write-in candidates need to educate the voters on how to properly cast a write-in vote. Not only does the oval on the ballot in the write-in position need to be filled in, but the voter also needs to write the name of the official write-in candidate on the line next to the filled in oval for the vote to count. Only votes for official write-in candidates will be considered on election day. Election workers only review write-in votes for official write-in candidates and count those votes, said Jarvis. The board of canvassers reviews those records and officially determines whether all votes cast as recorded in various name spellings count for the official write-in candidates. Jarvis indicated that when a voter, for example, writes in Mickey Mouse, their own name, or some other name, that vote is not counted unless the individual is an official write-in candidate. Write Us A Letter: KCC institutes service learning requirement Starting this semester at Kellogg Community College, a service learning endorsement will be required for every student pursuing an associate’s degree outside of the applied sciences. Each graduate must complete 15 hours of service learning activity in a course with a service-learning-certified faculty member or 24 hours of service learning as part of a course dedicated to service learning. Kate DeGraaf, KCC service learning manager, said service learning offers a way for students to see how their specific talents and skills can impact the community, regardless of the subject they’re studying. “Service learning is an avenue where students can learn more about themselves through real-life situations and reflection,” DeGraaf said. “It helps students see where they can be active agents of change in their careers and communities.” Mackinac Bridge Walk memories sought “What’s your story?” The Michigan Department of Transportation is collecting memories from the public about the annual Labor Day Mackinac Bridge Walk. One person sharing his or her memories on MDOT’s Facebook page will be chosen at random to HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, Aug. 30 — Movie Memories presents the little gem “Not as a Stranger” with Robert Mitchum, 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 31 — no preschool story time. Monday, Sept. 3 — library closed for Labor Day. Tuesday, Sept. 4 — no toddler story time; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30; open chess club, 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 5 — library book club discusses State of Wonder by Ann Patchett, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Call the Hastings Public Library for more information, 269-945-4263. receive a once-in-a-lifetime tour to the top of the Mackinac Bridge. Through Monday, Sept. 10, anyone can post memories of walking the bridge in years past, including photos and videos, on the MDOT Facebook page. MDOT also is encouraging anyone walking the bridge this year to share their experience and make this year’s bridge walk a unique live social media event. Stories, photos or videos will be accepted. “The Mackinac Bridge Walk is a Pure Michigan tradition unlike any other,” said State Transportation Director Kirk T. Steudle. “It’s the one time of year that pedestrians are allowed on the iconic bridge that links our Thornapple Township voters will be asked for road millage by Julie Makarewicz Staff Writer Thornapple Township voters will be asked in November to approve a .75 mill levy for road maintenance and repairs. The township board met in special session Tuesday to discuss the millage and approved sending the ballot question to the county clerk. “The problem we are facing is that by neglecting things on the list that need to get done, we’re just making it more difficult down the line and more costly to fix the road — a much more costly program,” said Township Supervisor Donald Boysen. He said he recognizes voters rejected a similar millage request two years ago, but said he hopes more education will help people understand this is a proactive step to address road concerns. The proposal seeks .75 mills for three years, starting in 2013 through 2015. If approved, the millage would raise an estimated $175,650 the first year. Council members said the township will continue adding to that fund with an estimated $75,000 from the general fund budget, for a total of more than $250,000 available per year. Boysen said he believes the timing is right. A 1.5-mill bond millage will end in 2012, reducing the overall millage residents currently pay. Boysen said even if the .75 road millage is approved, residents will still see an overall reduction in the total millage amount by about .75 mills. The 1.5 mills being retired is for the bonding of the emergency services building. “We’re really trying to be proactive rather than wait until the roads all fall apart. We just need to make sure people understand that,” said Trustee Patrick Harrison. Boysen suggested the township officials host informational sessions to address questions from the public as well as provide County Surplus Auction The County of Barry will be auctioning off surplus items on September 6, 2012 at 9:00 a.m. (inspection beginning at 8:15 a.m.); Courts & Law Basement/Garage (entrance is down the ramp on the south side of the building), 206 W. Court St., Hastings, MI. All item sold AS-IS. For a list of tentative items, go to www.barrycounty.org . 77570701 77570669 Thornapple Township Treasurer Debra Buckowing After a meeting with the Barry County Road Commission, township officials have tentatively identified major projects to undertake in the next three years, although changes to the list may be made, as needed. Township officials say the list contains roads throughout the entire township, including major thoroughfares and subdivision drives. Funds also are set aside for dust control and gravel for the gravel roads within the township. Some of the most expensive projects on the proposed list include repairs to Noffke Drive from 108th Street south; Irving Road from the village limits south to the township line; 108th Street from M-37 to Stimpson Road; and Stimpson Road from Green Lake Road to M-37. Nashville/Marshall/Springport/Jackson Trach/Vent Experience Preferred FT/PT – NIGHTS/days HHAs/CNAs Battle Creek, Kalamazoo, Jackson areas (including Albion, Homer, Three Rivers, Galesburg) FT/PT – days/nights Please send letter or resume to: recruiter@optimalstaffing.com or fax to: 517-394-7716 For All Your Tent Rental Needs & Mexican Tables and chairs available. Call: Dan McKinney 269-838-7057 or Tom McKinney 269-838-3842 829 N. Michigan Avenue • Hastings, MI 945-3418 ® The 77566915 HELP WANTED State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov Local insurance agency seeking highly motivated team player for fast-paced office. U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. Insurance background preferred. Please send resume and salary requirements to … 77564841 Ad #119 c/o Reminder P.O. Box 188 Hastings, MI 49058 77570381 U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. “The bottom line is if we don’t take some type of action or have some plan to be proactive, prices are going to double or triple in the future and we’ll be in even worse shape.” TWO BROTHERS AND A TENT Thursday’s Family Night 945-3418 Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov information about the need for the millage and how it will be used. Treasurer Debra Buckowing said some communities are returning paved roads to gravel because of lack of funds to maintain and repair the roads. “The bottom line is if we don’t take some type of action or have some plan to be proactive, prices are going to double or triple in the future and we’ll be in even worse shape,” she said. OPTIMAL MEDICAL STAFFING Current Openings RN/LPN PRIVATE DUTY NOTICE - Northside-Pizza.com Know Your Legislators: two great peninsulas. We encourage anyone who’s never walked the bridge to make the trip this year.” A free gift pack of Pure Michigan merchandise donated by the Michigan Economic Development Corp., including hats and Tshirts, will be awarded to the person who travels the farthest to walk the bridge and posts his or her memory to the MDOT Facebook page. MDOT employees and their families are not eligible for either prize but are encouraged to share their photos, memories and videos on Facebook. For more details on the Mackinac Bridge Walk social media promotion, go to the MDOT website or Facebook page. 77570681 The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. State News Roundup �Page 6 — Thursday, August 30, 2012 — The Hastings Banner GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. Worship Together… Area Obituaries Phyllis J. Thompson Charles Gaylen Rayner Bobby D. Garrison 77570497 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Rev. Ryan Wieland. Sundays - 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Service; Sunday School and Nursery available during both services (Summer Schedule - Adult Sunday School: 9 a.m., Worship & Children’s Programs 10 a.m.) Youth Group, Covenant Prayer, Choir, Chimes, Praise Band, Quilting Group, Community Breakfasts and more! Call the church office at (269) 721-8077 (M/W/F 9 a.m.-12 p.m.), e-mail office@mei.net or visit www.countrychapelumc.org <http://www.countrychapelumc.org/> for more information SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 8:45 a.m. Traditional Worship; 10 a.m. Refreshments; 10:45 a.m. Contemporary Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Youth Pastor, Eric Gillespie. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. for children and youth, and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Junior & Senior High Youth Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Mid-Week Pioneers and adult classes return in September. Thursday: Senior Adult Bible Study at 10 a.m. and lunch at Wendy’s, 11:30 a.m. Vacation Bible School: Wed. & Thurs., July 25 & 26, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Sunday, September 2 - Worship Service 8 and 10 a.m. September 2 Worship service at Grace 8 a.m. & 10 a.m.; Men’s Alcoholics Anonymous 7 p.m. September 5 God’s Children 5:30-7:30 p.m. September 5 - Sarah Circle Dinner Outing 6 p.m. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 945-2645, fax 269-945-2698. Pastor Amy Luckey. http://www.discovergrace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot.com. Friday - 9 a.m. Golfer’s Group Meets; 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday - 4 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 . This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Lauer Family Funeral Homes 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings Fiberglass Products 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 DELTON, MI - Phyllis J. Thompson, age 76, of Delton was reunited with her beloved husband Dick, on August 22, 2012. She passed away suddenly at her home while preparing for one of her many gatherings. She was born December 15, 1935 in Albion, the daughter of Harry and Evelyn (Schmidt) Harris. Phyllis attended and graduated from Albion High School. She was a retired office assistant for several physicians in Hastings. Phyllis married Dick Thompson on October 8, 1955. She enjoyed gardening, golf, volunteering, entertaining and spending time in the sun. Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents, Harry and Evelyn Harris; husband, Richard (Dick) Thompson; mother and father-in-law, Robert and Laura Thompson. Phyllis is survived by her daughter, Peggy (Larry) Thompson; sons, Tim (Astrid) Thompson, Mike (Deb) Thompson; grandchildren, Ken (Kebbie), Kate (Bret), Matt, Nick, Markus (Hannah), Ben; grandson, Owen; a large extended family and numerous dear friends. Phyllis was an incredible, generous, loveable woman, mother, grandmother and friend. She always put others needs before her own. She delighted in seeing the sunrise at her home, knowing it was the start of another terrific day. Her passion for life and wonderful sense of humor will be missed by everyone who knew her. Memorial contributions may be made to the Grace Lutheran Church, 239 E. North St., Hastings, MI 49058 or the American Cancer Society, Great Lakes Division, Inc., Attn: Memorial and Tribute Gifts, 1755 Abbey Road, East Lansing, MI 48823. A funeral service was held Monday, August 27, 2012 at the Grace Lutheran Church, 239 E. North St., Hastings. Pastor Amy Luckyofficiated the service. A luncheon followed the service. Interment took place at Albion Memory Gardens, Albion. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc. in Hastings, please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message for the family. Peggy Lou Schroeder HASTINGS, MI - Peggy Lou Schroeder, age 74, of Hastings, passed away August 23, 2012 at Thornapple Manor in Hastings. She was born June 1, 1938 at Pennock Hospital in Hastings, the daughter of William Herbert and Dolly Hazel (Kesler) Curtis. Peggy attended Hastings schools. Peggy was employed as a nurses aide at the Barry County Medical Care Facility, now known as, Thornapple Manor. She was also the manager of the Pioneer Apartments for over 40 years. She married Robert Edwin Schroeder on September 19, 1959. Peggy enjoyed playing bingo at the Commission on Aging. She was a member of the Moose Lodge and American Legion Auxiliary. Peggy was preceded in death by her parents, William and Dolly Curtis and husband, Robert Edwin Schroeder. She is survived by her daughter, Dawn Mikolajczyk of Traverse City; granddaughter, Amber (Mikolajczyk) and Kyle Estep of Redford and granddaughter, Danielle Mikolajczyk of Peoria, IL. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, Great Lakes Division, Inc., Attn: Memorial and Tribute Gifts, 1755 Abbey Road, East Lansing, MI 48823. Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be scheduled at a later date. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message for the family. Charles Gaylen Rayner, age 81, passed away Saturday, August 25, 2012. He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Alice (Hopper) Rayner; and his siblings, Leona Walterspaugh, Mildred Sensiba, Elmer Rayner, Selby Rayner, Donald Rayner, Richard Rayner and Wayne Rayner. Charles will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 56 years, Virginia Rayner (Erb); his children, Dinah Brown of East Lansing, Charles (Leona) Rayner II, Brian (Pat) Rayner, Angie (Don) Landon; his 14 grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; and his sister, Velma Endsley. A time for relatives and friends to visit with Charles’ family was held Monday, August 27, at Koops Funeral Chapel in Lake Odessa, 935 Fourth Avenue. Funeral services were held Tuesday, August 28, 2012 at Koops Funeral Chapel. Interment was in the Clarksville Cemetery. In honor of Charles, contributions may be made to Eaton Community Palliative Care. The family welcomes memories and messages in their guestbook online at www.koopsfc.com. Mary Weiler HILLMAN - Bobby D. Garrison, age 85, of 23770 Coombs Road, Hillman, passed away at his home with his family by his side. He was born June 4, 1927 in Birch Run to the late Everett and Verla (Arnett) Garrison. Bob served with the United States Navy Seabees from 1943-1946, stationed in China where he saw the Great Wall. He married Beverly Ann Fisher on January 7, 1950 in Hastings, Michigan. She preceded him in death July 6, 2011, after 61 years of marriage. Bob was a third generation oil and gas drilling contractor, owning Ferguson & Garrison. He wildcatted for oil and gas all around the state until 1969, then he and Bev bought and operated Jack’s Landing Resort on the Fletcher Floodwaters until retiring on August 11, 1995. Bob was an avid outdoorsman. He loved to hunt, fish, and went on numerous trips throughout the U.S. and Canada enjoying his passion. He is survived by four children, Dennis and Wendy Garrison of Hillman, Deborah Hubbard and Harley James Jr. of Hillman, Denise and Steve McDonald of Onaway, Dana and Sandy Garrison of Lachine; son-inlaw, Artmus Clark of Jackson; one sister, Linda and Bob Esther of Iron; 11 grandchildren, Jason and Heidi Garrison, Janine and Clayton Bahrke, Joe Hubbard, Jake Hubbard, Darcie and Chad Brown, Blain and Tarcii Scheller, Blake and Danielle Scheller, Kassie and Donald Leaym, Jordan Clark, Grant Clark, Jesse Garrison; 13 great-grandchildren; one brother-in-law, Floyd and Norma Fisher of Hastings; and many nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death were a daughter, Darlene (Mort) Clark; two brothers, Dale and Jay; and a son-in-law, Milton D. Hubbard Jr. Bob loved his family and enjoyed his friends. A graveside memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, September 1, 2012, at Hillman/Rust Cemetery with Rev. Larry Kirby officiating. A gathering will follow at Bob’s home. Arrangements are being handled by the Bannan Funeral Home. Memorials: Hospice of Michigan or VFW Hillman Post 2356. Verna (Jeanne) Gene Stockton Mary Weiler, age 97, passed away on Monday, August 27, 2012 at Spectrum Heart in Grand Rapids following a brief illness. She was born on December 28, 1914 in Hammond, IN to Paul and Mary (Scherer) Stutz. She was preceded in death by her parents, loving husband of 67 years, Ward; brothers, Joseph Stutz, Andrew Stutz, Robert Stutz, Martin Stutz and John Stutz; sisters, Elizabeth Roush and Pauline Christie; grandchildren, Julie, David, Steven, Dwyane and Gerry. She was employed at Hastings Manufacturing Company for 17 years, retiring to take care of her family. She later worked part-time at local restaurants and finally working with two sisters preparing meals for the Hastings Kiwanis Club, which she thoroughly enjoyed. Mary enjoyed playing euchre, bingo, baking bread for her friends and hanging out at Richies Koffee Shop. In 1980 Mary, along with her sisters Pauline and Katherine, received her GED diploma. Mary will be deeply missed by her children, Beverly Stutz, Patricia Walton, Louise (Nelson) Replogle, Ward Weiler Jr., and Terry (Meritt) Weiler; grandchildren, Kim (Harold) Fields, Robin (John) Dinkel, Robert (Melissa) Fueri, Nelson (Ann) Replogle, Jim (Susan) Replogle, Mary Louise Coll, William Stutz, and Lori Stutz, and Shanell (Mitch) Shanult; 10 great grandchildren; 13 greatgreat grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. No visitation will be held and cremation has taken place, as she requested. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the Barry County Red Cross Service Center or to a charity of one’s choice. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message for the family. PLANTATION, FL - Verna (Jeanne) Gene Stockton age 90, went on to be with her Lord and Savior on August 23, 2012. Jeanne was born on May 12, 1922 in White Pigeon, to Walter and Agnes (Brizendine) Lehman. Early on in life Jeanne resided in Battle Creek where she met her first husband and had two daughters. She remarried and moved to Grand Rapids where she had her first son, then moved to Florida where she gave birth to a second son. Later in life Jeanne met and married her third husband. Jeanne was an avid gardener, active golfer, and loved a good game of bridge. She enjoyed traveling, interior decorating and was also very active in the government of Cooper City, FL in the 1970s. Jeanne was a member of Plantation Baptist Church in Plantation, FL. She is survived by her children, Carol Newton, Linda Owen, and Cooper Synz; three granchildren; four great grandchildren; and six siblings, Dutch (Catherine) Lehman, Velma Maloney, Robert Lehman, Lois Myers, Mary (Richard) Bennett, Edna (Lloyd) Miller and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her three husbands, Robert Syer, Edward Synz, and Sheldon Stockton; her son, Brad Synz; her mother, Agnes Lehman; father, Walter Lehman; five brothers, Richard Lehman, Evert Lehman, Don Lehman, Paul Lehman and Elmer Lehman. A visitation and funeral services were held Wednesday, August 29, 2012 at New Life Assembly Church,1490 E. State Rd. in Hastings. Reverend Gary Adams officiated the service. Please consider making a memorial contribution to Plantation Baptist Church. A luncheon will be held after the service. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message to the family. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 30, 2012 — Page 7 Sean Robert, born at Borgess Hospital on August 2, 2012 at 10:22 a.m. to Caleb and Keri Case of Hastings, MI. Weighing 8 lbs. 2 ozs. and 21 1/2 inches long. Sean was welcomed home by brother Brendan. Grandparents include Lori Kenyon, William Wills, Bruce Case and Wendy Case. ***** Gabriel Andrew, born at Metro Health in Wyoming on June 18th at 7:56 a.m. to Jessica Andrew Mepham of Byron Center. Weighing 8 lbs. 4 ozs. and 21 inches long. ***** Jordan Corey Jose, born at Pennock Hospital on Aug. 12, 2012 at 12:13 p.m. to Ona Maria and Jordan Bumford of Nashville. Weighing 7 lbs. 12 1/2 ozs. and 18 1/2 inches long. Area Obituaries Marriage Licenses Marcus Ryan Eckhoff, Nashville and Kayla Leanne Stadel, Nashville. Josey Josiah John Paul Curico, Hastings and Amy Lien Dean, Hastings. Matthew Merridith McKelvey, Hastings and Ashley Nicole Ruthruff, Delton. Eric Fred Bender, Middleville and Stacy Lynne Vandefifer, Middleville. Nicholas Mathew Stanley, Charlottesville, VA and Brienne Alice Conner, Charlottesville, VA. Alan Glenn Woodall II, Birmingham, AL and Brittany Michele Geerdes, Chicago, IL. Anthony Joseph LaJoye, Middleville and Danielle Marlys Hoskins, Middleville. BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY N: J 6 4 M: --L: A Q 8 K: Q 9 7 6 5 4 2 WEST N: K 8 2 M: 8 4 3 2 L: 10 6 5 4 3 K: 3 EAST N: Q 10 9 7 5 3 M: Q J 5 L: J 9 2 K: J SOUTH: N: A M: A K 10 9 7 6 L: K 7 K: A K 10 8 Dealer: North Vulnerable: Both Lead: 3K North Pass 2L 3K 5L Pass East Pass Pass Pass Pass Pass South 2K 2M 4NT 7NT West Pass Pass Pass Pass The Barry County Bridge Barge was once again all set for its weekly excursion down the Thornapple River in beautiful Barry County. These weekly bridge and travel trips had been a delight for Captain M. North, skipper and bridge director for the weekly bridge tournaments. The fact was that the success of the trip had been so overwhelming that he had to take reservations for the weekly trip. Captain North was checking in the last of this week’s participants. “Hmmmm…” Captain North murmured half-to-himself. “Just waiting for two more and off we go on this week’s trip.” As he finished saying this aloud, he looked up to see the final two bridge players scurrying up the gangplank. “Wait for us, Captain North!” called Rosy and Vera, two of his more frequent travelers and bridge players. They always had a story to share, and no doubt there would be another one today. The Captain never minded. After all, Rosy and Vera took their bridge seriously, and yet they always managed to have a fun time. Captain North liked Vera and Rosy, and he shouted out to them. “Come aboard, Ladies. We would not leave Port Charlton Park without you. The Barry County Bridge Barge would just not be the same.” Arriving all out of breath, Rosy and Vera came aboard. “Oh Captain North. We have the most wonderful story to tell you.” Just then, one of the other regular players came up and interrupted their conversation. “Captain North, would you mind waiting another minute? I need to run to my car for my bridge convention card. I will be right back.” Captain North nodded, and he turned to Rosy and Vera. “There you have it. You should tell your story right now since we will have a short delay.” Vera and Rosy sat down as did the Captain. “Oh Captain North, we have been to a Regional Bridge Tournament in Lansing. Do you know where Lansing is?” Captain North smiled and nodded. Rosy continued, “On one of the seven days of the tournament, Vera and I played a match with these cards,” and here Rosy pulled out the hand of the day. “We were playing North-South, and my partner Vera passed the opening bid, although I wondered later why she did not open with a pre-emptive three-club bid. Oh well, no matter.” Here Vera piped up, “Opening in first seat at a tournament with such ratty-looking clubs was not for me. I elected to pass.” The Captain only nodded. Rosy continued. “I opened my hand with a 2K bid, a strong bid in our partnership agreement, informing my partner Vera that I had 22 points and expected game and perhaps we might have a slam possibility.” Vera responded, “I responded with a 2L bid, a waiting bid for us, to have Rosy further describe her hand.” “That is just what I did,” replied Rosy. “I mentioned my hearts, and back came a bid from Vera, bidding 3K. What was the meaning of that bid? I actually had to take a moment to think about her bid. Did she have a long club suit and some points to bid freely at the three-level instead of keeping it low at the two-level with a two-no trump bid, for example?” Vera responded again, “That is what I was hoping to show Rosy: long clubs, ratty though they were, and some helpful points.” Again the Captain nodded, looking to see if the missing passenger was anywhere in sight. No such luck. Rosy continued again, “Well, Captain North, you know how important it is to play contracts in no trump when you are in a tournament, don’t you? You get those extra points for bidding and making the most that you can. When I heard Vera’s bid, I was starting to think slam, and I used the Blackwood convention to ask Vera if she had the missing AL. “Yes, I had it,” said Vera, “and I bid the 5L response showing one ace.” Back into the conversation came Rosy. “Now, for the final bids, Captain North. Hearing about the long clubs Vera might have, one ace that I was missing, and a powerful hand, I debated between two bids. By the way, Captain North, what is better than bidding and making a small slam?” The Captain opened his eyes wide, and said, “Well, bidding and making a grand slam, of course.” “Oh Captain North, you are so right,” said Rosy. “And that is what I planned to do. Should I bid seven clubs or seven no trump since I knew that we had all of the suits stopped and a long suit in clubs? I went for the gold, Captain North, to borrow a term from the Olympics. My, weren’t they great in London this year?” The Captain looked for his missing passenger, stretching his neck to see if she were coming. “Well, Captain North, to make a long story short, I bid the seven no trump, and I was pleasantly surprised to see such a wonderful board from my partner Vera. As you can see, it was a lay-down, and I claimed all 13 tricks to gain a top board. We won the gold!” Here Vera and Rosy began a happy giggle. The Captain looked up just in time to see his missing passenger walking up the gangplank. “All aboard!” he called. “Nice bidding and playing, Vera and Rosy. Did you notice that the hand also makes 7K?” “Yes, Captain North, we realized that afterwards, but there are more points to be made in no trump than in clubs. We told you we wanted the gold!” Here they began to laugh again. Captain North walked slowly to his engine, and he just shook his head again. ***** Bridge question for this week: What is the other slam that makes six on this hand other than clubs and no trump? How do you make it with a Moysian fit? ***** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) Mark S. Clark HASTINGS, MI - Myron Von Seggern, age 87, of Hastings, died Saturday, August 25, 2012 at home. He was born June 19, 1925 near Scribner, NE to Bernard and Bertha (Havekost) Von Seggern. He was baptized on July 11, 1925 at St. John's Lutheran Church in Scribner. He attended school in Dodge County and graduated from Scribner High School in 1942. On May 2, 1948 Myron married Lois Von Essen at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Hooper, NE. They were successful farmers in Uehling, NE for 10 years. At that time, Myron felt a calling to go into the ministry and he earned a BA in history from Midland College in Fremont, NE and a divinity degree from Central Theological Seminary. The first church he served was Transfiguration Lutheran Church in Fenton. In 1975 he moved to Gaylord and started a Lutheran Mission Church. He was at Peace Lutheran Church until his retirement in 1986. In 2004, he and Lois moved to Hastings to be closer to family and he lived there until his death. Myron enjoyed fly fishing (including the art of tying his own flies), gardening, traveling in their travel trailer, bow hunting, model airplane flying, and especially his warm relationships with his many friends, his church family, and his family. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Lois of Hastings; son, Dr. Randal Von Seggern of Greensboro, NC; son, Dr. Wesley (Suzanne) Von Seggern of Plainwell; daughter, Ruth (Rod) Halcomb CPA of Scotts; son, Dr. Jeffrey (Maribeth) Von Seggern of Cedar Springs; seven grandchildren; one greatgranddaughter; a sister, Bernetta Schroeder of Omaha NE; sisters-in-law Doris Von Seggern of Fremont, NE, Mildred Von Seggern of Scribner, NE, Maxine Pfeiffer of Morse Bluff, NE, Marge Novak of Hartington, NE, and extended family Hanna Martin of West Point, NE. Funeral services were held on Wednesday, August 29, 2012 at Grace Lutheran Church, with Rev. Amy Luckey officiating. Interment followed in Rutland Cemetery. For those who wish, memorial contributions may be directed to Grace Lutheran Church in Myron’s name. Please share a memory or condolences with Myron’s family at www.lauerfh.com. Arrangements made by Lauer Family Funeral Homes – Wren Chapel, 1401 N. Broadway in Hastings. HASTINGS, MI - Mark S. Clark, age 59, of Hastings, passed away August 28, 2012 at his home, after fighting a courageous battle with cancer. He was born November 16, 1952 in Muskegon, the son of William and Betty (Smith) Clark. Mark attended Muskegon High School, graduating in 1971. He honorably served in the US Army from 1971 to 1974 in Korea. On June 30, 1995 he and Teri were married. Mark was employed at Ventra Ionia Main for nine years and Auto Style for 26 years. He was a member of the VFW, American Legion, Moose Lodge and Thornapple Valley Church. Mark enjoyed fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, billiards, motorcycling, horseshoes, boating and playing cards. He especially loved the out-of-doors, boating on Thornapple Lake with his cherished family and being at Barry’s Resort with all his friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Betty Clark; sister-in-law, Rosetta Willis and brother-in-law, Tom Bell. Mark is survived by his wife, Teri; his children, Troy (Connie) Burch, Lyle (Robin) Burch; grandchildren, Kaila Burch, Jessie Burch, Troy Burch Jr., Andi Oliver, Amber Rayner, Destiny Burch, Jacob Burch, J.J. Chmura, and Hailey Neal; great grandchild, Blake Farley; sisters, Pam (Jim) Hall and Penny Bell; several brother and sistera-inlaw; and many nieces, nephews and special friends. Mark was a loving husband, father and grandfather, who will be greatly missed by all. Respecting Mark’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial visitation will be held, Friday, August 31, 2012 from 6 until 8 p.m. at the Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. A visitation and memorial service will be held Saturday, September 1, 2012 at 11 a.m. with the visitation taking place one hour prior to service time, at Thornapple Valley Church, 2750 S. M-43 Hwy., Hastings, MI 49058. A luncheon will follow the service. A committal service will be held at Rutland Township Cemetery, following the luncheon. Memorial contributions may be made to Thornapple Valley Church or Spectrum Health Hospice, 4500 Breton Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49508. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to leave a message or memory to the family. Jean Freeland to celebrate 80th birthday Friends of Jean Freeland are invited to an 80th birthday open house on Saturday, September 8, 2012 from 2 to 5 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church of Hastings, 209 W. Green Street, Hastings. In lieu of gifts please bring a card with a special message for Jean. by Gerald Stein NORTH Myron Von Seggern Havoc in Hastings medieval event returning to Charlton Park Saturday, Sept. 1, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., members of the Society for Creative Anachronism will gather for a historical recreation at Historic Charlton Park in Hastings. Challengers will strive to unseat the champions of the kingdom and win the glory and prizes awarded at the end of the tournament. Activities include archery, fencing, heavy weapons, and thrown weapons, also combat with swords, maces, spears and shields, and equestrian competition. This is not just a theatrical demonstration like those seen at Renaissance fairs, but true athletic competition. The event is hosted by the Canton of Three Walls, an SCA group based out of Ionia. The SCA is a nonprofit educational organization that strives to recreate the best of the middle ages. Members develop a role to play based on medieval society — from beggers to skilled craftspeople. Merchants also will be selling their wares while townsfolk demonstrate period skills and pastimes. Admission is $6 for adults, $3 for children 12 and under. For more information, call Charlton Park 269-945-3775 or visit the website, www.charltonpark.org. For more information on the Society for Creative Anachronism, visit www.havocinhastings.com. Historic Charlton Park is located at 2545 S. Charlton Park Road, just north of M-79 between Hastings and Nashville. CEMETERY, continued from page 1 will be used as a public service announcement in Goodrich Theatres throughout Michigan and, perhaps, on the Channel One high school network. • Appointed Mayor Robert May as a voting delegate and Councilman Don Bowers as an alternate delegate to the Michigan Municipal League’s annual meeting Oct. 3 to 5. • Accepted grant agreement terms for Phase 2 of the Riverwalk Development Project. The Downtown Development Authority will provide $108,000 as the required local match for a project tentatively targeted for completion in August 2014. • Approved, on a 7-0 vote, the finalization of boundaries of the Initial Urban Services District, the next step in the approval process for the Urban Services and Economic Development Agreement between the city and Rutland Charter Township. • Approved, on a 6-1 vote with McNabbStange dissenting, to conduct a public hearing on the urban services agreement as required by the state. The hearing will be held in conjunction with the city council’s regular meeting Sept. 10 at 7 p.m. “I’m against the bailout of a private corporation by the city,” explained McNabbStange in remarks after the council meeting, presumably referring to the agreement’s expectation to promote business growth — including a proposed hotel — by extending sewer, water and other public services to the neighboring township. • Approved the purchase of road salt for the 2012-13 fiscal year at an estimated total of $45,788. Public Services Director Tim Girrbach pointed out that the purchase represents a savings of $1.34 per ton from last year. FAMILY FUNERAL HOMES 77570655 Newborn Babies �Page 8 — Thursday, August 30, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa by Elaine Garlock Monday, Sept. 3, brings the annual observance of Labor Day. Lakewood Schools start the next day, Sept. 4. The Ionia County Genealogy Society meet Saturday, Sept. 8, at the Freight House at 1 p.m. There will be a speaker, refreshments, open library time until 5 p.m. Sept. 1 is the deadline for submitting applications for First Family recognition for this calendar year. The first fall meeting of the local historical society comes the following week, the second Thursday with a potluck meal. President John Waite always comes up with an interesting program based on his extensive research for an entertaining evening. Central United Methodist Church will revert to its “most of the year” schedule Sept. 9, with Disciple Discovery classes at 9 and worship services at 10:30 a.m. Choir practice will resume shortly. Alethian and United Methodist Women resume meetings after summer recess. Helen Wait, who soon turns 100, will be the guest of honor at an open house Saturday, Sept. 1, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Thornapple Manor where she has resided in recent years. Photos will be on display and cake will be served to visitors who may chat with her for a short time. The Wait family has long been a vital part of the Pleasant Valley United Brethren Church. Helen’s late husband, Lawrence, lived a long life; his mother, Ruby Wait, lived to be 107. This is the big weekend at Woodland with many homecoming events to observe. Ball games, church service, songfest, parade and more. Twenty-five years ago, Woodland celebrated its sesquicentennial and the village of Lake Odessa observed its centennial. Clarksville is having a day in their rather new township park on Nash Highway for showing the colors with emphasis on the red, white and blue, Saturday, Sept. 8. This might be part of the red, white and blue, but there is to be a blood drive at the West Berlin Wesleyan Church Saturday, Sept. 8, from 2 to 6 p.m. Call Rev. Mark Jarvie for information on the weekly cribbage games at First Congregational Church early in the week. He says all levels of players are welcome. Many relatives from Wisconsin, Indiana, Brighton and Traverse City were in town last week because of the death and memorial services for Doris Mossburg. USDA designates Michigan a natural disaster area Gov. Rick Snyder Wednesday announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture has designated all 83 counties in Michigan as primary natural disaster areas for drought and excessive heat conditions that began in March and are ongoing. “The federal designation will aid Michigan’s farmers for crop losses due to the ongoing heat and drought conditions,” said Snyder. “This disaster designation ensures our farmers and producers have access to additional federal resources to overcome Mother Nature’s challenges.” The designation by USDA as natural disaster or contiguous disaster area means that qualified farm operators are eligible for lowinterest emergency loans from USDA’s Farm Service Agency, provided eligibility requirements are met. “Although we are still determining the full extent of the damage, this year’s extreme weather conditions have caused significant crop losses for Michigan’s farmers,” said Jamie Clover Adams, Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development director. “Additionally, hay production has been impacted across the state, which may greatly affect our livestock industry. This federal des- ignation provides much needed aid to Michigan’s farmers and producers to overcome the weather related challenges.” Farmers in eligible counties have eight months from the date of the declaration to apply for loans to help cover part of their actual losses. FSA will consider each loan application on its own merits, taking into account the extent of losses, security available and repayment ability. FSA has a variety of programs, in addition to the EM loan program, to help eligible farmers recover from adversity. In order for Michigan to receive federal disaster status, the original crop loss estimates must be verified from harvest yield data. If losses of 30 percent or more are confirmed, and the disaster request is granted, eligible state producers will have access to FSA’s low-interest emergency loan program for up to 100 percent of their weather-related agriculture production losses. FSA is the agency responsible for compiling the official crop loss statistics and administering the federal emergency farm loan programs. For more information on the federal emergency farm loan programs, visit the USDAFSA website at www.fsa.usda.gov. PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a public hearing concerning proposed amendments to the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance will be held on Wednesday, September 19, 2012, commencing at 7:00 p.m. at the Prairieville Township Hall, 10115 South Norris Road, within the Township. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the items to be considered at this public hearing include, in brief, the following: 1. The proposed amendment of Sections 6.6.B.3 and 6.6-1.B.1 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance so as to allow in the “A” Agricultural District and the “AP” Agricultural Preservation District, subject to special land use approval, more than one dwelling unit to be used as living quarters on a farm for a member or members of the owner’s immediate family or for unrelated families having permanent employment on the farm. Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of Keep income producers working hard … even when rates are low Next week, we observe Labor Day, which honors all the hard-working men and women in the United States. As an investor, you’d like to think that all your investments are working hard, too — including the ones that are producing income. But can your incomeoriented investments be productive when short-term interest rates are at historic lows? Or can you find other investment possibilities that could potentially boost your cash flow? The answer to both these questions is “yes” — but you may have to take a closer look at where you stand on the risk-reward spectrum. For example, you might need to consider longer-term income producers, which typically pay higher yields than shorter-term equivalents. Longer-term fixed-rate securities, such as bonds, must pay these higher rates to reward investors, who face both interest-rate risk — the possibility that interest rates will rise, causing the value of existing bonds to fall — and inflation risk, the threat of losing purchasing power by the time long-term bonds have matured. Still, you may be willing to accept these risks in exchange for the higher yields. However, you may be looking for income producers that can work hard for you without having to hold them for a long period to maturity. This is because the “yield curve” — the line that plots the relationship between yield and maturity — is fairly steep right now, which, in English, means you can gain noticeably higher yields just by modestly increasing the maturity of your investments. Your financial advisor can suggest some short-term and intermediate-term vehicles that may be appropriate for your needs. And while these rates will still not be as high as those offered by longer-term vehicles, they do offer flexibility — along with less interest-rate risk and inflation risk. You can also help protect yourself from these risks by building a “ladder” consisting of short-, intermediate- and longer-term bonds and certificates of deposit (CDs). Once you’ve built your ladder, it can help you weather changing interest-rate environments. When market rates are low, you’ll still have your longer-term bonds and CDs earning higher interest rates. And when market rates rise, you’ll be able to reinvest your maturing short-term investments at the higher levels. If you need the cash, you can liquidate the maturing bonds and CDs. Thus far, we’ve only looked at fixed-rate investments — but you may also be able to boost your income by owning dividend-paying stocks. Some companies have paid — and even increased — their stock dividends for many years in a row. If you’re not in need of the cash, you can reinvest the dividends and boost your ownership stake, which is a key to increasing your wealth. But if you do need the money, you can take the dividends as cash. Keep in mind that income producers are not a “sure thing” because companies can decide to reduce, or even discontinue, their dividends at any time. In addition, history tells us that you may experience more price volatility from stocks, and they can be worth more or less than the original investment when sold. As you can see, you can find ways to keep income-producing investments working hard for you, despite the prevailing low interest rates. So consider your options, weigh the risks — and then work with your financial advisor to make those choices that are right for you. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. You must evaluate whether a bond or CD ladder and the securities held within it are consistent with your investment objectives, risk tolerance and financial circumstances. Certificates of deposit (CDs) are federally insured up to $250,000 (principal and interest accrued but not yet paid) per issuing institution. Please visit fdic.gov or contact your financial advisor for additional information. CD values are subject to interest rate risk such that when interest rates rise, the prices CITY OF HASTINGS Barry County, Michigan NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP-CITY OF HASTINGS URBAN SERVICES AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the City Council of the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan will hold a public hearing on Monday, September 10, 2012, at 7:00 PM, in Council Chambers on the second floor of City Hall, 201 E. State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, to consider a proposed Agreement for Urban Services and Economic Development Agreement (the “Agreement”) between the City of Hastings and Rutland Charter Township, pursuant to Act 425 of the Public Acts of Michigan of 1984, as amended (“Act 425”). The proposed Agreement pertains to the conditional transfer of most municipal jurisdiction over 6.79 acres of vacant land (the “Property”) from Rutland Charter Township to the City of Hastings (subject to and in accordance with the terms of the Agreement and Act 425) for purposes of economic development. The Property is located at approximately 1099 W. M-43 on the south side of M-43 immediately west of the City of Hastings boundary and is generally described as that part of permanent parcel no. 08-13-013001-30 lying easterly of the stream that runs through that parcel in a more or less north-south direction. A copy of the proposed Agreement (including a map and legal description of the Property) is on file in the office of the City Clerk and may be examined at the City Hall at the address provided above during normal City business hours and at the public hearing. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Township Zoning Ordinance and the proposed amendments thereto may be examined at the Prairieville Township Hall located at 10115 South Norris Road within the Township at any reasonable time from and after the first publication of this Notice until and including the time of public hearing and may be further examined at the public hearing. Written comments concerning the proposed Agreement will be accepted up to the time of the public hearing. All interested persons may attend the hearing and comment upon the proposed Agreement. The Prairieville Township Planning Commission and Township Board reserve the right to make changes in the above-mentioned proposed amendments at or following the public hearing. Following the public hearing, the City Council may take action on the proposed Agreement at any time after the expiration of 30 days after the public hearing. Thomas E. Emery City Clerk 77570667 All interested parties are invited to be present to participate in discussion on the matter. Prairieville Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed material being considered at the hearing, to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon five (5) days' notice to the Prairieville Township Clerk. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Prairieville Township Clerk at the address or telephone number listed below. PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION Jill Owens, Clerk Prairieville Township Hall 10115 South Norris Road Delton, MI 49046 (269) 623-2664 EDWARD JONES of CDs can decrease. If CDs are sold prior to maturity, the investor can lose principal value. FDIC insurance does not cover losses in market value. Before investing in bonds, you should understand the risks involved, including interest rate risk, credit risk and market risk. Bond investments are subject to interest rate risk such that when interest rates rise, the prices of bonds can decrease, and the investor can lose principal value if the investment is sold prior to maturity. The value of bonds fluctuates, and you may lose some or all of your principal. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 34.51 +.09 AT&T 36.64 +.05 BP PLC 42.18 -.22 CMS Energy Corp 22.97 -.15 Coca-Cola Co 38.00 +1.26 Eaton 45.64 -.04 Family Dollar Stores 61.54 -2.73 Fifth Third Bancorp 14.93 +.54 Flowserve CP 127.58 +.51 Ford Motor Co. 9.34 -.19 General Mills 39.44 +.81 General Motors 20.94 -.69 Intel Corp. 25.00 -1.11 Kellogg Co. 51.66 +.27 McDonald’s Corp 89.14 +.64 Pfizer Inc. 23.85 +.16 Ralcorp 70.81 +2.61 Sears Holding 54.96 -1.43 Spartan Motors 5.00 -.20 Spartan Stores 15.40 -.02 Stryker 53.72 +.58 TCF Financial 11.00 +.23 Walmart Stores 72.41 +.98 Gold $1,666.70 +29.10 Silver $30.88 +1.59 Dow Jones Average 13,102 -101 Volume on NYSE 479M -120M NOTICE The minutes of the meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners held August 28, 2012, are available in the County Clerk’s Office at 220 W. State St., Hastings, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or www.barrycounty.org. 77570494 Job Opening for: High School Construction Trades Program Paraprofessional Part-time CTE Paraprofessional needed for Construction Trades at Hastings High School. Must be willing and able to start immediately. Primary duties include assisting teaching staff with preparation of job sites and classroom labs, computer data input, along with assisting and supervision of students. Must have high school diploma and have residential construction trades experience. High School teaching experience is not required but very useful. E-mail letter of interest and resume to jhoefler@hassk12.org or send via mail: Attn. Jason Hoefler, Hastings High School, 520 W. South St. Hastings, Michigan, 49058. Deadline for application is Thurs., Sept. 6th. 77570459 THE COUNTY OF BARRY IS ACCEPTING SEALED BIDS for HVAC SERVICE The term of the contract will be for the year beginning November 1, 2012 and ending October 31, 2015. The closing date for the bid is September 14th at 2:00 p.m. Bids must be submitted to County Administration, 3rd Floor, 220 W. State Street, Hastings, MI 49058 in a sealed envelope clearly marked “HVAC BID”. A copy of the Invitation to Bid may be requested in person at the County Clerk’s office at 220 W. State Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Specific questions regarding the Invitation to Bid may be directed to Tim Neeb, Building and Grounds Supervisor, at (269) 838-7084. 77570367 See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits 77570651 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 30, 2012 — Page 9 State school aid is nothing new During the second year of the American Civil War, Barry County had nearly 5,000 students. That was nearly one-third of the population, which at the time, stood at 15,000, according to the Barry County Michigan 1985 history book. The county was formed in 1929, and the first school was thought to be that taught by Sarah Paul in Middleville in 1835. Less than 30 years later, numerous schools were established among the 16 Barry County townships townships that were fairly new themselves. The county, in 1862, would be receiving nearly $400 more from the state than it had the previous year. Below is an article from the May 14, 1862, Banner: Apportionment of school moneys Office Superintendent Public Instruction Lansing May 6, 1862 The apportionment used in August or September of the Primary School Interest Fund for the current year, has just been made upon 252,786 children between 5 and 20 years of age, at 50 cents each. The entire amount including a small sum for deficiencies in former reports, is $126,464.16. The money is now in the State Treasury, and will be paid without delay. The number of children and the amount apportioned thereon, in the towns in Barry County, as given below, we doubt not, will be interesting to your readers. Amount Townships No. of Children Assyria 347 $173.50 Baltimore 218 109.00 Barry 385 192.50 Carlton 337 168.50 Castleton 327 163.50 Hastings 455 227.50 Hope 206 103.00 Irving 346 173.00 Johnstown 351 175.50 Maple Grove 269 134.50 Orangeville 242 121.00 Prairieville 447 223.50 Rutland 208 104.00 Thornapple 313 156.50 Woodland 320 160.00 Yankee Springs 219 109.50 TOTAL 4,990 $2,495.00 Amt. apportioned last year, $2,086.14 ***** The following appeal, of sorts, to recruit prospective teachers was undated and unattributed, but likely was from Barry County School Commissioner Arthur Lathrop. Many of the statements are used as Lathrop’s quotes in the June 6, 1946, Hastings Banner. Following World War II, experts anticipated an increase in population and a need for more teachers. Not exactly a fancy brochure, the following was typed on a legal size sheet of tan paper, with no graphics, no special font, nor even contact information. Still, the point was clear: Barry County Normal was a bargain for anyone considering teaching as a profession. The Barry County Normal With the passing of the war period and the return of more normal times thoughtful young people are giving more careful consideration to the choosing of a life work worthy of the best that is in them. It is the part of wisdom to look beyond the present inflationary period to the time when training and skill in some profession will be at a premium. Now is a good time to get started in a professional career. No field offers greater opportunity for personal development, for service to humanity, and at the same time the security of a profession, than does teaching in public schools. There has never been an over-supply of good teachers. With an increasing school census we are particularly short of them now, and the supply will be inadequate for several years to come. There is now a great demand for trained young people for teachers. Being particularly sensitive to the need for more and better trained teachers Barry County is planning to reopen a County Normal next September. The County Normal offers one year of training for which the student is granted a County Limited Certificate valid for two years. This certificate may be renewed by completing ten semester hours of work from a State Teachers College. This may be done by taking extension work given here in the county during the school year. Two renewals are permissible. It is expected that a County Normal graduate wishing to make teaching a life profession will, after a few years of teaching, complete work for a degree at some State Teacher’s College. Twenty-five semester hours credit is allowed by the State Colleges for the work done in County Normal. Thus the year at County Normal plus one summer term at a State College qualifies one to enter college as a sophomore. There is no tuition charge for County Normal. Many students will be able to live at home being within easy daily transportation from the school. Arrangements may be made with the Hastings school for bus transportation for those who can get to a school bus line. There are plenty of opportunities to work for board and room, or possibly for more. The lowest possible cost for earning a year of college credit is by County Normal. Many of our most successful teachers began their career by way of a County Normal. Salaries for County Normal graduates are usually about the average for the rural schools of the county. HOPE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY NOTICE OF PLANNING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Hope Township Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing upon the following described matters on Thursday, September 20, 2012, at 7:00 p.m. at the Hope Township Hall at 5463 South M-43 Highway: The item(s) to be considered at the public hearing consist of the following: 1. The revised site plan submitted by Ms. Amy Henney on behalf of Mr. Elwood Henney in support of an application for special exception use and site plan review approval to expand the private camp located on Red Oak Trail on land with the property tax ID #07-009-00655 in Hope Township. The applicant is seeking to expand the private camp from 4 campers to 10 campers. Private camps are a permitted special exception use in the AR Agricultural Residential District per Section 17.2.C of the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance. Written comments will be received from any interested persons concerning the foregoing by the Hope Township Clerk at the Township Hall at any time during regular business hours up to the date of the hearing and may further be received by the Planning Commission at the hearing. Anyone interested in reviewing the revised site plan, the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance, or other information in connection with the request may do so at the Hope Township Offices during regular business hours and may further examine the same at the public hearing. The Township of Hope will provide necessary auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed material being considered at the hearing, to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon four (4) days' notice to the Hope Township Clerk. Arlene Tonkin, Planning Commission Secretary HOPE TOWNSHIP 5463 S. M-43 Highway Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 948-2464 77570663 "Lunchtime at Lakeview School" is the description on this photo from the Barry County Michigan, 1985 history book. Lakeview School, on Center Road in Castleton Township, was established in 1901. Pierce Cedar Creek Institute site of a national ecological evolution study by David DeDecker Staff Writer Scientists have come to Pierce Cedar Creek Institute from the University of Virginia to conduct a three-year study on the American bellflower .Pierce was chosen by the researchers for its diversity in ecosystems and the resources of a biological field station. Michigan is at the flower’s northern limit. The study is being conducted in Virginia, Georgia and Michigan through 2014. Researchers will conduct the same experiment in each location to determine the role of environment and how it affects genetic traits in the American bellflower , or tall bellflower . Dr. Laura Galloway is the principal researcher. She secured funding for the project from the National Science Foundation. Dr. Holly Prendeville is a field researcher for Galloway and will be traveling to all three states over the course of the study to plant, observe and document the native wildflowers. “We were looking for a place that would be supportive of establishing an experiment, and had the needed facilities for our use,” said Prendeville. “Pierce definitely provides that. Then there is the necessity of having a natural population nearby. If you use a site that doesn’t support the plant naturally, you probably are not going to get useful information. We knew this would be a good area to conduct the experiment.” The American bellflower grows three to six feet tall. According to Prendeville, in Kentucky they are barely two feet tall and in Ohio, they stand six feet or more. “There is a natural population here, but it is on the other side of the property in what is referred to as the ‘Little Grand Canyon,” said Prendeville. “We are concerned about gene flow, but the two populations are far enough apart, there is little risk of cross pollination. It is too far for bees to travel from one population to the other. In addition, we are going to sow seed from the native population as a pollination trap. It’s commonly done in agriculture with corn, etc.” Prendeville and her assistant Anna Greenlee are using the seeds collected from 23 different populations of American bellflower. At Pierce, they have planted along the Orange Trail on the western boundary of the property. They will compare data from all locations to determine trends among the different populations. The main questions researchers have are: Can the plants be either an annual or a biennial in the same population? What is the role of maternal effects, in this case the flowering times, and what do they have to do with the plant’s adaptation to different environments? Is it purely genetic, or does environment play a role in early flowering versus late flowering? “With many plant species, especially those that flower early in the spring, you expect to see a gradient of flowering times from north to south,” said Prendeville. “With this species, the American bellflower, we don’t see that at all. It is very unexpected.” Prendeville planted seeds at Pierce Cedar Creek Institute in early August which would be considered early for Michigan. She will return at the end of September to plant late seeds, then study the difference in their growth and germination tendencies. In the spring of 2013, Prendeville will plant rosettes of the plant which were germinated in a growth chamber and grown to a two-inch standardized rosette, then refrigerated to simulate winter. “The plants can flower early in the year or later in the year. If the plants flower early, it can release its seeds early enough to start more plants which will then not flower until the following year,” said Prendeville. “If they germinate in the fall, they will be annuals. If they seed late in the year, they will germinate the next spring and be biennials. The plants require a winter in order to send up a flowering stalk. We will look at when they flower and how many flowers are produced, as well as do some hand pollination to remove some variables within populations.” The study of plants and their adaptation to varied environments is not new to Prendeville. She did her undergraduate work at the University of Vermont in biology with a concentration in ecology and earned her Ph.D. from the University of Nebraska with a concentration on evolution ecology. Her dissertation looked at ecological effects of transgenic squash and virus resistance. Prendeville is quick to point out that the most interesting aspects of scientific research are when experiments go in another direction. “When you think you know what to expect, something unexpected pops up,” she said. “We have seen many of our theories disproved by native populations of the plant growing in a wide range of conditions. We are getting a much better understanding of the species as a whole by doing these comparisons. If we find out each population is unique, we may need to look into more specifics of the environment and what indicators are involved. We would need to find out what is driving the differences. “Like here at Pierce, I would not have expected to find the native population [of bellflower] with walnut trees. That was surprising to me. You see plants grouping with certain other plants, but walnut was a new one.” Pierce Cedar Creek Institute is a working biological field station and collaborates with students and professors from more than 14 universities and colleges on a regular basis. For more information on the environmental education and research going on at the institute, call 269-721-4472 or check the website www.cedarcreekinstitute.org. RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2012 PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP – CITY OF HASTINGS URBAN SERVICES AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT PLEASE TAKE NOTICE the Rutland Charter Township Board will hold a public hearing during its regular meeting on September 12, 2012 that begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Rutland Charter Township Hall located at the address indicated below. The purpose of the public hearing is to receive public comments on a proposed agreement entitled “Rutland Charter Township – City of Hastings Urban Services and Economic Development Agreement”. One of the authorizing statutes for this proposed agreement, 1984 Public Act No. 425, as amended, requires the Township Board to hold this public hearing before entering into the agreement. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE the proposed agreement provides for the conditional transfer of most municipal jurisdiction over a specified portion of Rutland Charter Township to the City of Hastings to enhance opportunities for economic development by making various municipal services available to the subject property. The property covered by this proposed agreement is approximately 6.79 acres of vacant land located at approximately 1099 West M-43 on the southerly side of M-43 contiguous with the Township’s easterly boundary with the City, and is generally described as that part of parcel no. 08-13-013-001-30 lying easterly of the stream that runs through the property in a more or less north-south direction. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE the proposed agreement, including a map showing the location of the subject property and a complete legal description of that property, is available by contacting the Township Clerk as indicated below prior to the public hearing, and will also be available for review at the public hearing. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that interested persons are welcome to submit written comments on the proposed agreement to the Township Clerk prior to or at the public hearing, and are also welcome to comment on the proposed agreement at the public hearing. The Township Board will not vote on whether to enter into the proposed agreement at this September 12 Township Board meeting/public hearing, but may take that action at a subsequent regular meeting or special meeting. The Township Board will defer considering whether to enter into the proposed agreement for at least 30 days after the September 12 public hearing pursuant to Section 5 of the above-referenced Act (MCL 124.25). The Hastings City Council is also anticipated to consider whether to enter into the proposed agreement after holding its own public hearing at a date and time determined by the City Council pursuant to the above-referenced Act. Rutland Charter Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services at the meeting/hearing to individuals with disabilities, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audiotapes of printed materials being considered, upon reasonable notice to the Township. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Township Clerk as designated below. Robin Hawthorne, Clerk Rutland Charter Township 2461 Heath Road Hastings, Michigan 49058 (269) 948-2194 77570659 �Page 10 — Thursday, August 30, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 11-025904-01-DE Estate of Ray Gene Dunfield. Date of birth: 05/16/1931. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Ray Gene Dunfield, died 07/27/2011. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Carla S. Dunfield, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court Street, Suite 302, Hastings, Michigan 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 08/23/2012 Carla S. Dunfield 7364 North 35th Street Richland, Michigan 49083 77570631 (269) 629-0262 FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Stuart Buckley and Loretta Buckley, Husband and Wife to Member First Mortgage, LLC, Mortgagee, dated December 18, 2002 and recorded December 26, 2002 in Instrument # 1094438 Barry County Records, Michigan on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Fifty Thousand Seven Hundred Thirty-Two Dollars and Ninety-Four Cents ($50,732.94) including interest 6.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on September 27, 2012 Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The South one half of Lots 4 and 5, Block 10, Daniel Strikers Addition to the City, formerly village of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof in Liber 1 of Plats, page 11. Commonly known as 719 N. Hanover, Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 8/30/2012 Member First Mortgage, LLC Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-67461 (0877570694 30)(09-20) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Bernice Boocher and John E. Boocher, wife and husband to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for Countrywide Home Loans Inc. dba America's Wholesale Lender its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated May 18, 2007 and recorded July 10, 2007 in Instrument # 1182792 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, LP, by assignment dated February 21, 2012 and recorded March 1, 2012 in Instrument # 201203010002131 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-One Thousand Nine Hundred Fifty-Nine Dollars and Thirty-Two Cents ($91,959.32) including interest 7.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on September 27, 2012 Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 32 of Aben Johnson's First Addition to the City of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 46. Commonly known as 330 E Francis St, Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 8/30/2012 Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, LP, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our 77570689 File No: 12-67089 (08-30)(09-20) STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-26177-DE Estate of Anna M. Grantham. Date of birth: Sept. 21, 1930. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Anna M. Grantham, who lived at 2244 Parker Dr., Wayland, Michigan died April 18, 2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Lorraine A. Dykstra, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court St., Hastings, MI 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: August 27, 2012 Eric E. Brandt P52007 P.O. Box 141635 Grand Rapids, MI 49514-1635 616/784-3443 Lorraine M. Dykstra 2276 Parker Dr. Wayland, MI 49348 77570673 269/795-3218 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-26173-DE Estate of Allison Jacob Sluiter. Date of birth: 11/09/1924. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Allison Jacob Sluiter, who lived at 5416 Laura Drive, Shelbyville, Michigan died 06/28/2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Carol Crews, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West Court Street, Hastings, MI 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 08/23/2012 Michael J. McPhillips (P33715) 121 West Apple Street, Suite 101 Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 945-3512 Carol Crews 1921 Parkcrest Drive, SW Wyoming, Michigan 49519 77570644 (616) 293-7679 SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by JACK C. GREEN, MARRIED and SUSANNE E. GREEN, MARRIED, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated January 26, 2005, and recorded on February 14, 2005, in Document No. 1141418, and assigned by said mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thousand Eight Hundred Thirty-Three Dollars and ThirtyThree Cents ($100,833.33), including interest at 6.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on September 20, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: LOT 5 AND THE EAST ONE-HALF OF LOT 6 OF BUR-MAR ESTATES PLAT NUMBER 1, HASTINGS TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN BEING PART OF THE SOUTHEAST ONE-QUARTER OF SECTION 20, TOWN 3 NORTH, RANGE 6 WEST, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF, BARRY COUNTY RECORDS. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 77570500 JPMC.000724 FNMA (08-23)(09-13) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Mark C. Penrod, a married man, original mortgagor(s), to Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Mortgagee, dated May 28, 2008, and recorded on May 30, 2008 in instrument 20080530-0005733, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Nineteen Thousand Four Hundred and 76/100 Dollars ($19,400.76). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on September 6, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 6, Block 11, H.J. Kentfield's Addition, according to the plat thereof recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 9 of Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #347961F02 77560047 (08-09)(08-30) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Mark R. Storey and Julie Ann Storey, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated June 25, 2004, and recorded on July 8, 2004 in instrument 1130551, and assigned by said Mortgagee to THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 200410 as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Nine Thousand Four and 37/100 Dollars ($99,004.37). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on September 13, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing At The Northeast Corner Of Lot Eleven Hundred And Fifty Six Of Said Plat, Thence North 4 Rods, Thence West 8 Rods, Thence South 4 Rods, Thence East To Place Of Beginning, Being A Part Of This Southwest One Quarter Of Section 17, Town 3 North, Range 8 West. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 16, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #407981F01 77570154 (08-16)(09-06) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Loretta Pezet, A Single Woman to Argent Mortgage Company, LLC, Mortgagee, dated July 29, 2005 and recorded August 22, 2005 in Instrument # 1151447 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Argent Securities Inc., Asset-Backed Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2005-W2, by assignment dated August 13, 2012 and recorded August 15, 2012 in instrument # 2012-003287 and by assignment dated October 28, 2010 and recorded November 2, 2010 in instrument # 201011020010188 and by assignment dated November 19, 2010 and recorded November 30, 2010 in instrument # 201011300011133 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Nine Thousand Three Hundred Twenty-Four Dollars and Forty-Six Cents ($109,324.46) including interest 2% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on September 20, 2012 Said premises are situated in Village of Freeport, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 4 of Block 1 of the Village of Freeport, according to the recorded plat thereof, Subject to easements, reservations, restrictions, and limitations of record, if any Commonly known as 157 Maple St, Freeport MI 49325 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 8/23/2012 Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Argent Securities Inc., Asset-Backed Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2005-W2, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our 77570489 File No: 12-63071 (08-23)(09-13) Synopsis Hastings Charter Township Regular Meeting August 14, 2012 Meeting called to order at 7:00 pm Pledge and roll call Seven board members present, 3 guests attended Approved July minutes & Various dept. reports Treasurer’s report approved Clerks quarterly financial Supervisor – land locked parcel GASB Statement #54 policy September meeting moved to Historic Hall at Charlton Park Approved payment of warrants Board member comments Public comment Approved motion to adjourn 8:02 pm Read full minutes on twp. website Respectfully submitted, Anita S. Mennell - Clerk Attested to by 77570671 Jim Brown – Supervisor Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Tony Astuccio a single man, original mortgagor(s), to ABN AMRO Mortgage Group, Inc., Mortgagee, dated October 3, 2002, and recorded on November 7, 2002 in instrument 1091196, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Six Thousand Nine Hundred Twelve and 79/100 Dollars ($66,912.79). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on September 13, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 17, Hilltop Estates, according to the recorded plat thereof as recorded in Lbier 5 of Plats Page 74, Barry County Records The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 16, 2012 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #392640F01 77570194 (08-16)(09-06) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Nicholas S. Pifer and Tina M. Pifer, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 21, 2004, and recorded on June 21, 2004 in instrument 1129582, and modified by Affidavit or Order received by and recorded, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Six Thousand Two Hundred Twenty-Seven and 06/100 Dollars ($66,227.06). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on September 6, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Section 13, Town 1 North, Range 8 West, part of the Southwest 1/4, Commencing at the Northeast corner of the Southwest 1/4; thence West 793 feet to the point of beginning; thence South 200 feet; thence West 207 feet; thence North 200 feet; thence East 207 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #105480F02 77570076 (08-09)(08-30) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Carol A. Crews and William D Crews Sr. aka William Delbert Crews, aka William D. Crews, wife and husband, original mortgagor(s), to American Express Bank, FSB, Mortgagee, dated November 19, 2004, and recorded on December 10, 2004 in instrument 1138504, and modified by Affidavit or Order recorded on May 17, 2012 in instrument 2012-00236, and assigned by said Mortgagee to PHH Mortgage Corporation as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Two Thousand Five Hundred One and 03/100 Dollars ($92,501.03). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on September 6, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Southeast corner of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 17, Town 2 North, Range 10 West, thence North 02 degrees 16 minutes 46 seconds West 200 feet, thence North 90 degrees West 104.3 feet, thence South 03 degrees 06 minutes 31 seconds West 200.14 feet, thence North 90 degrees East along Saddler Road 123.11 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #354808F04 77569945 (08-09)(08-30) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Stacy Jones, a single woman, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Polaris Home Funding Corporation, its successors or assigns, Mortgagee, dated August 17, 2007 and recorded August 27, 2007 in Instrument Number 20070827-0001341, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Six Thousand Nine Hundred Seventy and 12/100 Dollars ($76,970.12) including interest at 6.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 09/20/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 47 of Supervisor's Plat of the Village of Prairieville, according to the Plat thereof recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, Page 74, Barry County Records, being part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 2, Town 1 North, Range 10 West, excepting therefrom the East 127 feet thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: August 23, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 2485021600 File No. 682.1523 77570476 (08-23)(09-13) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 30, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTIFY US AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by Glen Tonnemacher and Nicole Marie Tonnmacher, husband and wife, Mortgagors, to BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., Mortgagee, dated the 24th day of May, 2010 and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, for The County of Barry and State of Michigan, on the 9th day of June, 2010 in Instrument #201006090005548 of Barry County Records, said Mortgage on which mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, the sum of Two Hundred Thirteen Thousand Eight Hundred Eighty & 98/100 ($213880.98), and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on the 6th day of September, 2012 at 1:00 PM o’clock Local Time, said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI (that being the building where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held), of the premises described in said mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due, as aforesaid on said mortgage, with interest thereon at 4.75% per annum and all legal costs, charges, and expenses, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sum or sums which may be paid by the undersigned, necessary to protect its interest in the premises. Which said premises are described as follows: All that certain piece or parcel of land, including any and all structures, and homes, manufactured or otherwise, located thereon, situated in the Township of Irving, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and described as follows, to wit: Lot 10, Prairie Acres, according to the plat thereof in Liber 6 of Plats, Page 39. During the six (6) months immediately following the sale, the property may be redeemed, except that in the event that the property is determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241a, the property may be redeemed during 30 days immediately following the sale. Pursuant to MCLA 600.3278, the mortgagor(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 8/9/2012 BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO BAC HOME LOANS SERVICING, LP FKA COUNTRYWIDE HOME LOANS SERVICING, LP Mortgagee FABRIZIO & BROOK, P.C. Attorney for BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO BAC HOME LOANS SERVICING, LP FKA COUNTRYWIDE HOME LOANS SERVICING, LP 888 W. Big Beaver, Suite 800 Troy, Ml 48084 248-362-2600 77570071 BOA FNMA Tonnemacher (08-09)(08-30) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Michael S. Lutes, A Married Man and Suzette A. Lutes, A Married Woman as Joint Tenants, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 28, 2003, and recorded on August 4, 2003 in instrument 1110155, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Fifteen Thousand Two Hundred Twenty-Eight and 07/100 Dollars ($215,228.07). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on September 20, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 29, Mastenbrook's Subdivision, Yankee Springs Township, Barry County, Michigan, as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, Page 39. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 23, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #389949F02 77570254 (08-23)(09-13) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF A MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on April 11, 2006, by Ronald A. Jones and Sally J. Jones, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, given by them to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on April 24, 2006, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 1163538, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank by an Assignment of Mortgage, recorded on October 12, 2010, in Instrument Number 201010120009483, which mortgage was modified by a Loan Modification Agreement recorded October 12, 2010, in Instrument Number 201010120009482, Barry County Records, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Six Thousand Eight and 80/100 Dollars ($126,008.80); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, September 13, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE CITY OF HASTINGS, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: The North half of Lots 2 and 3, Block 8, Daniel Strikers Addition to the City (formerly Village) of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof. Commonly known as: 825 N. East Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 Parcel Number: 08-55-095-053-00 The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: August 2, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933 (517) 37177570064 8253 (08-09)(08-30) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Jason A. Hobbs, aka Jason Hobbs, an unmarried man, to Fifth Third Mortgage- MI, LLC, Mortgagee, dated July 11, 2006 and recorded July 20, 2006 in Instrument Number 1167398, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Fifth Third Mortgage Company by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ten Thousand Two Hundred Thirteen and 47/100 Dollars ($110,213.47) including interest at 6.75% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 09/20/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Property situated in the Township of Barry, County of Barry and State of Michigan, described as follows: A parcel of land in the East 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 28, Town 1 North, Range 9 West, described as beginning 777 feet North of the center of said Section 28, for place of beginning, thence West 198 feet, thence North 95 feet, thence East 198 feet, thence South 95 feet to the place of beginning, Barry Township, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: August 23, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 200.9322 77570362 (08-23)(09-13) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Marcia Bowman and Rodney Bowman, husband and wife, to Nationstar Mortgage, LLC f/k/a Centex Home Equity Company, LLC, Mortgagee, dated August 18, 2003 and recorded August 26, 2003 in Instrument Number 1111920, Barry County Records, Michigan. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred ThirtySeven Thousand Six Hundred Thirty-Four and 9/100 Dollars ($137,634.09) including interest at 4.079% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 09/13/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The following described premises situated in the Township of Hastings, County of Barry and State of Michigan, to wit: Lots 5 and 6, Todd's Acres Subdivision, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 4 of Plats, on Page 21, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: August 16, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 426.3857 (08-16)(09-06) 77570241 AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTIFY US AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by Ronald P. Armour , , Mortgagors, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for Polaris Home Funding Corp., Mortgagee, dated the 27th day of February, 2007 and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, for The County of Barry and State of Michigan, on the 2nd day of March, 2007 in Liber Instrument#1176993 of Barry County Records, page , said Mortgage having been assigned to Green Tree Servicing LLC on which mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, the sum of Eighty One Thousand Two Hundred Fifty Nine & 62/100 ($81259.62), and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on the 13th day of September, 2012 at 1:00 PM o’clock Local Time, said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI (that being the building where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held), of the premises described in said mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due, as aforesaid on said mortgage, with interest thereon at 7.75% per annum and all legal costs, charges, and expenses, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sum or sums which may be paid by the undersigned, necessary to protect its interest in the premises. Which said premises are described as follows: All that certain piece or parcel of land, including any and all structures, and homes, manufactured or otherwise, located thereon, situated in the Township of Baltimore, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and described as follows, to wit: A PARCEL OF LAND IN THE SOUTHWEST 1/4 OF THE SOUTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 35, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST, DESCRIBED AS: COMMENCING AT THE SOUTH 1/4 POST OF SAID SECTION 35 AND RUNNING THENCE NORTH 00 DEGREES 08 MINUTES WEST 426.4 FEET TO A POINT IN THE CENTER OF BIRD ROAD, WHICH IS THE TRUE POINT OF BEGINNING, THENCE NORTHEASTERLY 212.9 FEET ALONG THE CENTER OF BIRD ROAD ON THE ARC OF A CURVE TO THE RIGHT OF RADIUS 284.78 FEET, THE CHORD OF WHICH BEARS NORTH 19 DEGREES 33 MINUTES EAST 207.97 FEET, THENCE NORTH 40 DEGREES 58 MINUTES EAST, 41.1 FEET, THENCE SOUTH 60 DEGREES 18 MINUTES EAST 203 FEET, THENCE SOUTH 10 DEGREES 04 MINUTES WEST 120 FEET, THENCE SOUTH 88 DEGREES 07 MINUTES WEST 252 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. During the six (6) months immediately following the sale, the property may be redeemed, except that in the event that the property is determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241a, the property may be redeemed during 30 days immediately following the sale. Pursuant to MCLA 600.3278, the mortgagor(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 8/16/2012 Green Tree Servicing LLC Mortgagee FABRIZIO & BROOK, P.C. Attorney for Green Tree Servicing LLC 888 W. Big Beaver, Suite 800 Troy, Ml 48084 248-362-2600 GTSD FNMA ArmourRon 77570199 (08-16)(09-06) Case No. 12-141-CH CIRCUIT COURT SALE In pursuance and by virtue of a Judgment of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on the 17th day of July A.D., 2012 in a certain cause therein pending, wherein THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-9 was the Plaintiff and Teresa Herlein and Duane T. Herlein were the Defendants. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that I shall sell at public auction to the highest bidder, at public venue, at the Barry County Courthouse (that being the place of holding the Circuit Court for said County), on the 27th day of September A.D., 2012 at 1 o’clock in the forenoon, Eastern Standard Time, the following described property, viz: All certain piece or parcel of land situated in the Township of Thornapple, County of Barry and State of Michigan, described as follows: Lot 8, Near Lane Estates No. 1, as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats, Page 7, Barry County Records Tax ID: 14-140-0008-00 Commonly known as: 12942 Near Lane, Caledonia, MI 49316 This property may be redeemed during the six (6) months following the sale. Dated: August 9, 2012 Mark Sheldon Deputy Sheriff Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Ronald S. Glaser (P46986) Attorneys for Plaintiff 43252 Woodward Ave., Suite 180 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 (248) 335-9200 (08-09)(09-20) 77570085 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Mark J. Doctor and Shannon D. Doctor, husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated July 25, 2003 and recorded August 13, 2003 in Instrument Number 1110797, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Mortgage Center LLC by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-One Thousand One Hundred Fifty and 71/100 Dollars ($71,150.71) including interest at 4.625% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 09/06/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The land referred to in this Commitment, situated in the County of Barry, Township of Irving, State of Michigan, is described as follows: That part of the North 3/4 of the East 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 15, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, Irving Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Commencing at the South 1/4 corner of said Section; thence North 00 degrees 11 minutes 15 seconds East 655.01 feet along the East line of said Southwest 1/4; thence South 89 degrees 47 minutes 18 seconds West 286.0 feet along the South line of said North 3/4 to the place of beginning; thence South 89 degrees 47 minutes 18 seconds West 345.44 feet along said South line; thence North 00 degrees 05 minutes 37 seconds East 547.54 feet to reference point "A"; thence South 66 degrees 31 minutes 14 seconds East 377.06 feet; thence South 00 degrees 11 minutes 15 seconds West 396.00 feet to the place of beginning. Subject to and together with an easement for ingress, egress and utility purposes over a 66 foot wide strip of land, the centerline of which is described as: Commencing at the South 1/4 corner of Section 15, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, Irving Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence North 00 degrees 11 minutes 15 seconds East 1369.01 feet along the East line of said Southeast 1/4 to the place of beginning; thence South 89 degrees 47 minutes 18 seconds West 450.75 feet along the North line of the South 714 feet of the North 3/4 East 1/2 of said Southwest 1/4; thence South 47 degrees 37 minutes 18 seconds West 247.22 feet to reference point "A"; thence South 66 degrees 31 minutes 14 seconds East 220.0 feet to the point of ending of said easement; also over a 66 foot wide strip of land beginning at said reference point "A"; thence South 89 degrees 47 minutes 18 seconds West 220.0 feet to the point of ending of said easements. The redemption period shall be 12 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: August 9, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 393.0702 77570054 (08-09)(08-30) NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE OF MORTGAGE CHARLES J. HIEMSTRA IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE IN THE MILITARY, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER LISTED BELOW. Default has occurred in the conditions of a Mortgage (“Mortgage”) made by Timothy K. Marlin, a/k/a Timothy Marlin and Kimberly S. Marlin, husband and wife, of 2710 Pine Trail Drive, Middleville, Michigan 49333, Mortgagor, to Lake Michigan Credit Union, a state chartered credit union, having its principal office at 4027 Lake Drive SE, Suite 110, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49546, which Mortgage was dated July 13, 2007, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on August 15, 2007 at Instrument Number 20070815-0000958. By reason of this default, the Mortgagee hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of said Mortgage due and payable immediately. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on this Mortgage the sum of Two Hundred Twenty-nine Thousand Four Hundred Forty-five and 41/100 Dollars ($229,445.41). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by this Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the Power of Sale contained in this Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, this Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part thereof, at public auction to the highest bidder at the East Steps of the Barry County Courthouse, 220 W. State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 that being the place of holding Circuit Court in said County, on Thursday, the 27th day of September, 2012, at 1:00 p.m. The premises covered by this Mortgage are located in the Township of Irving, County of Barry, State of Michigan and described as follows: EXHIBIT A Legal Description of 2710 Pine Trail Drive, Middleville, MI 49333 Parcel 2: That part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 32, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, Irving Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Commencing at the North 1/4 corner of said section; thence South 89 degrees 37 minutes 52 seconds East 974.70 feet along the North line of said Northeast 1/4; thence South 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds West 1187.69 feet along the East line of the West 60 acres of said Northeast 1/4 to the centerline of State Road; thence North 72 degrees 31 minutes 34 seconds West 172.30 feet along said centerline; thence south 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds West 287.34 feet to the place of beginning; thence South 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds West 140.00 feet; thence South 79 degrees 26 minutes 39 seconds West 412.61 feet; thence North 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds East 300.00 feet; thence South 78 degrees 11 minutes 16 seconds East 412.30 feet to the place of beginning. Parcel 3 That part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 32, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, Irving Township, Barry County, Michigan described as: Commencing at the North 1/4 corner of said section; thence South 89 degrees 37 minutes 52 seconds East 974.70 feet along the North line of said Northeast 1/4; thence South 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds West 1187.69 feet along the East line of the West 60 acres of said Northeast 1/4 to the centerline of State Road; thence North 72 degrees 31 minutes 34 seconds West 172.30 feet along said centerline; thence South 0 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds West 427.34 feet to the place of beginning; thence South 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds West 220.00 feet; thence South 79 degrees 26 minutes 39 seconds West 412.61 feet; thence North 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds East 220.00 feet; thence North 79 degrees 26 minutes 39 seconds East 412.61 feet to the place of beginning. Parcel 4 That part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 32, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, described as: Commencing at the North 1/4 corner of said section; thence South 89 degrees 37 minutes 52 seconds East 974.70 feet along the North line of said Northeast 1/4; thence South 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds West 1187.69 feet along the East line of the West 60 acres of said Northeast 1/4 to the centerline of State Road; thence South 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds West 264.0 feet to the place of beginning; thence South 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds West 300.77 feet; thence South 79 degrees 26 minutes 39 seconds West 168.26 feet; thence North 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds East 333.72 feet; thence South 89 degrees 15 minutes 46 seconds East 165.0 feet to the place of beginning. Subject to and together with an easement for ingress, egress and utility purposes over a 66 foot wide strip of land, the Easterly line of which is described as: That part of the East 1/2 of Section 32, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, described as: Commencing at the North 1/4 corner of said section; thence South 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds West 888.32 feet along the North-South 1/4 line of said section to the centerline of State Road; thence South 72 degrees 31 minutes 34 seconds East 441.0 feet along said centerline to the place of beginning of the East line of said 66 foot wide easement; thence South 01 degree 13 minutes 25 seconds West 960.59 feet to the place of ending of said easement. Tax Parcel No. 08-08-032-025-05 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale unless determined to be abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period will be as provided by MCLA 600.3241a. If this property is sold at a foreclosure sale by advertisement, during the period of redemption, borrower/mortgagor will be responsible to the purchaser or to the mortgage holder for physical injury to the property beyond wear and tear resulting from the normal use of the property if the physical injury is caused by or at the direction of the borrower/mortgagor. Dated: August 16, 2012 LAKE MICHIGAN CREDIT UNION MORTGAGEE THIS INSTRUMENT PREPARED BY: ______________________________ Charles J. Hiemstra (P-24332) Attorney for Mortgagee 125 Ottawa Ave., NW, Suite 310 Grand Rapids, MI 49503 (616) 235-3100 77570341 �Page 12 — Thursday, August 30, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Laura M. Davis, an unmarried woman, original mortgagor(s), to PHH Mortgage Services, Mortgagee, dated April 30, 2003, and recorded on May 21, 2003 in instrument 1104892, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-One Thousand Eleven and 69/100 Dollars ($81,011.69). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on September 13, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Being known and designated as a parcel of land in the Southwest 1/4 of section 8, Town 3 North, Range 10 West, Yankee Springs TWP., Barry County, MI, described as: Beginning at a point in the center of road which lies 1467.40 feet due North and North 75 degrees West 782.07 feet from the South 1/4 post of section 8; thence South 6 Degrees 6 feet West 158 feet; thence North 83 degrees 14 feet West 82.50 feet; thence North 6 degrees 6 feet East 158 feet; thence South 83 degrees 14 feet East 82.50 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 16, 2012 For more information, please call: FC F (248) 593-1313 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #410611F01 77570218 (08-16)(09-06) SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by JAY N. SCOTT, A MARRIED MAN and JEROME MEEHAN, A MARRIED MAN, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated December 2, 2005, and recorded on December 16, 2005, in Document No. 1157842, and re-recorded on June 21, 2011 in Document No./Liber 201106210006025, on Page 1, and modified, recorded December 29, 2010, in Document No. 201012290012081, and assigned by said mortgagee to Flagstar Bank, FSB, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Nineteen Thousand Eight Hundred Fifty-Five Dollars and Seventy Cents ($119,855.70), including interest at 4.250% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on September 6, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE SOUTH LINE OF SECTION 2, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 7 WEST, NORTH 89 DEGREES 16 MINUTES 39 SECONDS WEST 207.24 FEET FROM THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF SAID SECTION, THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES 16 MINUTES 39 SECONDS WEST 416.95 FEET, THENCE NORTH 01 DEGREES 15 MINUTES 21 SECONDS WEST 351.06 FEET, THENCE SOUTH 89 DEGREES 09 MINUTES 32 SECONDS EAST 629.73 FEET, THENCE SOUTH 00 DEGREES 21 MINUTES 23 SECONDS EAST 42.32 FEET, THENCE SOUTH 33 DEGREES 58 MINUTES 35 SECONDS WEST 367.39 FEET TO POINT OF BEGINNING. SUBJECT TO EASEMENTS FOR STATE HIGHWAY. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Flagstar Bank, FSB Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 FSB.004393 FHA (08-09)(08-30) 77570100 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Lisa Cahill, an unmarried person, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated December 5, 2001, and recorded on December 13, 2001 in instrument 1071314, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Thirty-Five Thousand Seven Hundred Eighty-Four and 64/100 Dollars ($35,784.64). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on September 6, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 22 of Country Acres as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 64, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 9, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #410246F01 77570059 (08-09)(08-30) Expert answers questions about benefits, drug plan, eligibility How can I get a copy of my Social Security statement? If you are age 18 or older, you may get your Social Security statement online at any time after creating an account at www.socialsecurity.gov/mystatement. The statement provides estimates for retirement, disability and survivors benefits, as well as a way to determine whether your earnings are accurately posted to your Social Security record. Social Security sends paper Social Security statements in the mail only to people age 60 and older and, as of July, to workers the year they turn 25. If this applies to you, you should receive your statement about two to three months before your birthday. You can get an instant, personalized estimate of your future retirement benefit using our online retirement estimator at www.socialsecurity.gov/estimator. My child, who gets Social Security, will be attending his last year of high school in the fall. He turns 19 in a few months. Do I need to fill out a form for his benefits to continue? Yes. You should receive a form, SSA-1372BK, in the mail about three months before your son’s birthday. Your son needs to complete the form and take it to his school’s office for certification. Then, you need to return page two and the certified page three back to Social Security for processing. If you can’t find the form that was mailed to you, download it from www.socialsecurity.gov/schoolofficials/ssa13 72.pdf. My neighbor, who is retired, told me that the income he receives from his part-time job at a local nursery gives him an increase in his Social Security benefits. Is that right? Retirees who return to work after they start receiving benefits may be able to receive a higher benefit based on those earnings. This is because Social Security automatically re-computes the retirement benefit after crediting the additional earnings to the individual’s earnings record. Learn more by reading the publication, How Work Affects Your Benefits, at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10069.html. I plan to retire soon. When are Social Security benefits paid? Social Security benefits are paid each month. Generally, new retirees receive their benefits on either the second, third or fourth Wednesday of each month, depending on the day in the month the retiree was born. If you receive benefits as a spouse, your benefit payment date will be determined by your spouse’s birth date. For a calendar showing actual payment dates for 2012, see the schedule of Social Security benefit payments at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/calendar.htm. What is the difference between Social Security disability and Supplemental Security Income disability? Social Security administers two major programs that provide benefits based on disability: Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income. SSDI benefits are based on prior work under Social Security, and are financed with Social Security taxes paid by workers, employers, and self-employed persons. To be eligible for an SSDI benefit, the worker must earn sufficient credits based on taxable work to be “insured” for Social Security purposes. SSI payments are made on the basis of financial need and are financed through general tax revenues. Adults or children who are disabled or blind, and have limited income and resources, may be eligible for SSI disability. The monthly payment varies up to the maximum federal benefit rate, which may be supplemented by the state or decreased by income. Learn more by reading our publications, Supplemental Security Income, at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/11000.html, and Disability Benefits, at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10029.html. Can I get both Supplemental Security Income and Social Security benefits based on my disability? Many people eligible for Social Security disability benefits also may be eligible for SSI. The disability decision for one program is the same for the other, but you must meet additional resource and income limits to qualify for SSI benefits. Learn all about SSI and whether or not you may qualify by reading the publication, “You May Be Able To Get Supplemental Security Income” at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/11069.html. Is there a time limit on collecting Social Security disability benefits? Your disability benefits will continue as long as your medical condition does not improve and you remain unable to work. We will review your case at regular intervals to make sure you are still disabled. If you are still receiving disability benefits when you reach full retirement age, we will automatically convert them to retirement benefits. Learn more by reading our publication, Disability Benefits, at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10029.html. I get Social Security because of a disability. How often will my case be reviewed to determine if I’m still eligible? How often we review your medical condition depends on how severe it is and the likelihood it will improve. Your award notice tells you when you can expect your first review using the following terminology: • Medical improvement expected — If your condition is expected to improve within a specific time, your first review will be six to 18 months after you started getting disability benefits. • Medical improvement possible — If improvement in your medical condition is possible, your case will be reviewed about every three years. • Medical improvement not expected — If your medical condition is unlikely to improve, your case will be reviewed about once every five to seven years. Will my eligibility for the Extra Help with Medicare prescription drug plan costs be reviewed and, if so, how often? If you get the Extra Help, Social Security may contact you to review your status. This reassessment will ensure you remain eligible for Extra Help and you are receiving all the benefits you deserve. Annually, usually at the end of August, we may send you a form to complete: “Social Security Administration Review of Your Eligibility for Extra Help.” You will have 30 days to complete and return this form. Any necessary adjustments to the Extra Help will be effective in January of the following year. For example, if we send you a review form in August 2012 and you return the form within 30 days, any necessary adjustment to your Extra Help will be effective in January 2013. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. See us for color copies, one-hour photo processing and all your printing needs. PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy., Hastings 77570508 77570514 GET MORE NEWS! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. Here’s a chart showing how your monthly payment date is determined; the “birth date” refers to the day of the month you were born: Benefits paid on Birth date 1 to 10 Second Wednesday 11 to 20 Third Wednesday 21 to 31 Fourth Wednesday 77570511 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by John L. Buffinga, an unmarried man, original mortgagor(s), to Comerica Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated August 18, 1992, and recorded on August 24, 1992 in Liber 552 on Page 607, and assigned by mesne assignments to Wells Fargo Bank, NA as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Twenty-Four Thousand One Hundred FiftyTwo and 56/100 Dollars ($24,152.56). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on September 27, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at a point 1364.82 feet South of North 1/4 Post, Section 28, Town 1 North, Range 8 West, thence South 224.46 feet, thence West 400 feet, thence North 224.46 feet, thence East 400 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 30, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #392761F02 77570705 (08-30)(09-20) SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN 77570517 LEGAL NOTICES 77570520 77570505 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 30, 2012 — Page 13 35th Hastings Summerfest is a dry one Rain or a thunderstorm seem to make their appearance at least once during the three days of Summerfest in Hastings. The weekend of outdoor activities — races, tennis matches, soapbox derby, softball tournament, basket- ball games, parades, arts and crafts, car show, and more — remained dry, barely. A large storm system was looming over Lake Michigan Sunday afternoon as vendors were winding down sales and getting ready to The Barry County Courthouse lawn is filled with vendors and shoppers Friday afternoon, the first day of Hastings 35th Summerfest. The fountain provides a place for people to rest in the shade. Julia Leos watches her daughter, ‘Ailana Leos, play a game run by Evan Murphy at the booth benefiting Kyomi’s Gift. pack up. Most were off the courthouse lawn by the time the first rain clouds arrived around 5 p.m. Barry County Transit’s trolley provides free rides through town during Summerfest. The Barry County Chamber of Commerce again brought in an inflatable slide and other apparatus, allowing children to burn some energy. A contestant in the second annual soapbox derby races down the Hanover Street hill near State Road Saturday afternoon. (Photo by Perry Hardin) The Tony LaJoye Trio entertains crowds from the main stage during Summerfest Friday night. (Photo by Rose Hendershot) EDUCATORS, continued from page 1 maybe I could be an effective tool. I was fortunate, maybe I could help somebody not as fortunate.” Shakespeare, who is studying to become a nurse, also told VanderLaan, “Robots will never fix people. People need the touch of a human being and a machine will never provide that.” Adam Sheldon learned about rhythm and business presentation skills while a student at Hastings and later combined those two lessons to launch a reading development program for underprivileged students in Dayton, Ohio, in which he documented that rhythm could be used to improve reading skills. “Today, Adam is a nationally sought-after speaker after his work using music rhythm increased reading proficiency amongst the Dayton youngsters by 17 percent,” said VanderLaan. VanderLaan said Hastings taught Travis Williams leverage. Williams said a teacher nurtured his interest in biology while his coaches taught him how to take his passions and use them as a platform to achieve the next level of success. “VanderLaan said Williams told him,” You get to a place in life by the people you surround yourself with.” Williams is now the director of the Outdoor Discovery Center in Holland, where he introduces the love of nature to 35,000 students each year and the 75,000 more adults and children who pass through the Macatawa Greenway, a network of permanently protected public and private parks, forests, streams and trails. VanderLaan said there are three things teachers and members of the community can take away from what he learned through his interviews with the graduates: First, everyone has had an impact on someone else. “That impact is still resonating and will never leave the hearts of those students and people,” he said. “They are using your impact to provide the same impact to others.” Second, teachers and community members can help students and young people reach the next level of accomplishment. “Travis Williams told me ‘Hastings Area Schools isn’t directly responsible for what I’ve been given, what I have attained. It did put me in position to accomplish what I needed to attain what I did,’” said VanderLaan, who added. “There’s teaching ... and the secret to the success of the community.” Third, each day everyone should ask themselves how they can help someone else be successful that day. The Hastings High School Band is on hand to provide music for the annual Business, Industry and Education luncheon. Members of the Hastings High School Color Guard perform during the BIE luncheon. Hastings Area Schools Superintendent Todd Geerlings welcomes guests to the annual BIE luncheon. “You build the future. You build each other. You build a school system and a community to which people want to choose to come — and to which you belong.” Fred Jacobs, vice president of J-Ad Graphics, introduces the keynote speaker. �Page 14 — Thursday, August 30, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Some locals, some visitors win in Summerfest tennis tournament Boys singles winners are (from left) Scott Garber, bronze, Adam Schaefer, silver, Marshall Cherry; gold, and Ryan Thornburgh, silver. Sally Mariage of Middleville and Karen Sterzick, Alto, women’s doubles silver In men’s singles, the bronze medal was shared by (from left) Connor von der Hoff and Don Schils (missing from photo). The silver medal went to Jim Cummins of Battle Creek and the gold to Dan Demorrow, Caledonia. Karen Hoffman and Caroline Garrison, of Hastings, women’s doubles bronze. Men’s doubles winners are (from left) silver medalists Don Myers and Brent VanBuren of Hastings, silver; gold medal winners Patrick Kane, Grand Rapids and Charles Phelps, Kentwood. (Missing from photo are bronze winners Michael Ingle of Battle Creek and Ben Brott of Kalamazoo.) The mixed doubles gold winners are (from left) Amy Ingle and father Michael Ingle. Taking the silver are Don Myers and Julie Fox of Illinois. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 30, 2012 — Page 15 POLICE BEAT BEA Chainsaws missing On Aug. 24, Hastings Police responded to an incident on East Bond Street and were told that someone had entered a garage, removed a Huskavarna 570 Forester chainsaw, a Craftsman 32 cc 14” chainsaw, and a Power Built Spring Compressor. Anyone having information about these items is asked to call the Hastings Police or Barry County Silent Observer. Motorcyclist curbs his enthusiasm Hastings Police were dispatched on Aug. 27 to a motorcycle accident at South Hanover (M-37) and Hubble Street. Officers found that a 27-year-old Lowell man had been involved in what appeared to be a single vehicle crash. The man had been southbound on Hanover and had proceeded through the “S” curve when his motorcycle struck the west curb, causing him to lose control. He was reportedly wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, but was air lifted from the scene with unknown injuries. The latest report indicates that the injuries are not life threatening. Man is not the only thing in the bag Hastings Police spotted a man on Aug. 22 pushing a bicycle in the area of Michigan Avenue and State Street who appeared to be having difficulty walking. Police also noticed the man carrying a bag. Officers approached the subject only to observe that he was bleeding from some substantial facial injuries and questioned him about his injuries. The subject admitted that he had crashed his bike and was “just trying to get home.” It became obvious to police the man had been consuming alcohol. When asked how much he had drank, the subject replied “you know me, I have a high tolerance.” When asked what he had in the bag, the subject replied it was his marijuana and he did not possess his medical marijuana card. He did, however, have other paperwork to support lawful possession of marijuana. The individual then allowed police to look at his medical marijuana in a locked wooden box, along with supporting paperwork. The man also had pills for which he did not possess a prescription, and admitted they were “NARCO”, stating further that he had traded some Vicoden for the other medication. Officers seized the pills. The report has been sent to the Prosecutors Office for review. Couple gets plugged over property On Aug. 24, Hastings officers responded to a home on East Walnut Street for a reported domestic assault. A male-female argument had erupted over plugging in the air conditioner. Reportedly, both said they had been arguing while unplugging and replugging in the air conditioner unit, and a shoving match had taken place. One of the subjects wanted police to force the other to relinquish the air conditioner. Officers informed the two that police officers may not take sides and a court claim may need to be filed over the disputed air conditioner. Travelin’ man, drinks where he can Hastings Police stopped a moped on Aug. 24 for operating without a tail lamp. The moped was traveling southbound on Jefferson Street. Officers immediately noticed the odor of intoxicants, along with slurred speech and glazed eyes. The tail light was not out, but a back-pack strapped tothe bike had fallen over the light. When asked how many drinks he had consumed, the 24-year-old Hastings man stated one beer here, one beer there, and a third beer at an additional location. Reportedly, the beers were “normal” size. After attempting some roadside tests, the breathalyzer test registered .199 percent, which is more than twice the legal limit. He was lodged n the county jail pending formal charges of operating with a high blood alcohol content. Backpacks carry the evidence of criminal sexual conduct, third degree; and two charges of criminal sexual conduct, fourth degree, for which Curtis was bound over to Circuit Court June 22. When the public was allowed to re-enter the courtroom, Schipper stated there was probable cause to bind Curtis over on a charge of criminal sexual conduct, second degree. He said there was some value in more than 100 text messages allegedly sent from Curtis to the girl over a two-month period, some as late as 11:30 p.m. in which, reportedly, Curtis tells the girl how she is very attractive. The teenager was apparently going through a breakup with her boyfriend when COURT NEWS Suspect does more than throw chalk Hastings Police received a request on Aug. 24 from a woman wanting to meet at the police department. Once at city hall, officers learned the mother of a one-yearold was reporting a child abuse situation. According to the complainant, her mother (the baby’s grandmother) had been babysitting for her child, when the child’s father slapped the infant across the face so hard it left finger impressions on the child’s face. The mother continued to tell police her mother had reported the infant had been playing with an eight-year-old and had thrown a piece of chalk hitting the older child in the face. Reportedly, the father had then struck the child across the face very hard and had carried the child into the bedroom by one leg before leaving the home. Officers met with the 23-year-old Hastings man a short time later at a different location. The man, although remorseful, was arrested pending formal charges for child abuse. Child Protective Services were informed. Man’s bad influence turns violent Barry County Deputies were dispatched on Aug. 23 to South Whitmore Road for a reported domestic assault. Deputies were informed enroute that the suspect had kneed a victim in the chest and possessed a knife. The suspect also had two outstanding warrants. When deputies arrived, a male was observed running from the back door of the home. He was apprehended in the woods immediately behind the residence and advised he was under arrest. The complainant said she and the 28-year-old Hastings man had been arguing about he and his friends hanging out at the house. Reportedly, she told him he was a bad influence and he told her to mind her own business. The woman told deputies the man had thrown a beer can at her and brokethe glass in a picture frame. He then allegedly picked up a knife and said he was going to kill himself, running the knife across his throat. The woman said he did not threaten anyone with the knife. She said he then picked up a stool and smashed it. A piece of the breaking stool apparently hit the woman in the eye. According to her, the man then grabbed her and shoved her to the floor and got on top of her. The woman’s friend tried to pull the man off, but he allegedly kneed the friend in her chest. The complainant yelled to her friend to get the children out of the house and call 911, which she did. Deputies evaluated the situation and administered breathalyzers to each. The attacker’s registered .153 percent, the complainant’s registered .049 percent, and her friend’s .10 percent. The case is open and turned over to the Prosecutor’s Office. Driver turns his world upside down On Aug. 16, deputies were dispatched to North Avenue and Lacey Road for a 1990 GMC pickup truck turned upside down in a pond. The caller reported seeing no one in the area. When deputies arrived they observed the roof of the truck had collapsed. A person on the scene said he had checked the truck and nobody seemed to be inside. The homeowner across the road from the accident stated the driver had fled on foot. The driver had come to his house to use the phone, told him his name, and then left the scene. The homeowner told deputies the man appeared to be intoxicated. A deputy requested back-up and the K9 unit for assistance in locating the driver. A passerby told deputies she had just seen someone run across Cooper Road and into the woods. The K9 unit, Michigan State Police and deputies located the subject identified as a 26-year-old Hastings man. Reportedly, the man smelled of intoxicants and admitted to drinking before the accident. He was taken to Pennock by ambulance. His breathalyzer registered .171 percent. The man was arrested and his truck towed. The report has been forwarded to the Prosecutor’s Office. the 45-year-old Curtis began texting her. Schipper said the testimony meets criteria for “intentionally touching of intimate parts or the clothing covering those parts.” He said Curtis’ alleged pulling up of the girl’s sports bra as she covered her breasts while Curtis wrapped an ace bandage around her ribs, was also intentional and intimate. His bond conditions were unchanged in the amount of $100,000. As of press time, no circuit court date was set for this charge. Curtis, a former professional baseball player and 1999 World Series standout, was arrested in Barry County on an initial criminal sexual conduct warrant issued May 24. Chad Curtis Chad Curtis appeared in Barry County Court Wednesday, Aug. 29, to hear preliminary hearing testimony against him for an additional criminal sexual conduct charge involving a girl between 13 and 16 years old. District Court Judge Michael Schipper closed the courtroom for more than 90 minutes to hear the girl’s testimony. This is in addition to two charges of criminal sexual conduct, second degree; one count Viking volleyballers conclude pre-conference warmup As they anticipate their conference league opener against Williamston at Lakewood Sept. 5, the Viking volleyball team can look back on a first week of non-conference play that netted a 17-1 record and a runner-up finish in the Gold Division of the WMVOA tournament Saturday at East Kentwood. “Overall, it was a pretty good day, it just didn’t end great,” commented Viking Coach Kellie Rowland on Saturday’s tournament performance. “We can concentrate a bit now on some specific skills and positions.” The position the Vikings would like to be in would be as winners of the Capital Area Activities Conference — for the 21st consecutive season. Possibilities look good, considering the team’s play against some West Michigan powerhouses Saturday. The Vikings won their pool play by defeating Unity Christian 25-12, 25-12; Caledonia 25-5, 25-10; and Grand Haven 25-12, 25-12. After a four-hour delay called by the tournament’s head official to allow second place teams to rest, Lakewood started slow but then defeated host East Kentwood 25-23, 25-13 and Rockford 25-16, 25-23 to set up tournament championship play against Forest Hills Eastern. The Vikings stung the Hawks 25-20 in the opening set, but then lost some momentum and the first place position on 18-20 and 1215 scores. Team statistics leaders for the day were Emily Kutch with 46 kills, Brooke Wieland with 77 assists, Olivia Davis with 54 points, and Bethy Tingley with 70 digs. SAXON SPORT SHORTS Hastings JV, frosh teams start strong Kicking off the new football season, the Hastings junior varsity football team overcame Lakewood Thursday by a 45-0 score on the Vikings’ field. The Saxon freshman team faced the Vikings Thursday in Hastings and finished with a 26-6 victory after leading at the half by a 20-0 count. John Timothy Marshall, 52, of Plainwell was sentenced Aug. 23 for operating under the influence of liquor, third offense. Marshall was ordered to serve 12 months in jail and 36 months of probation. He must pay $50 a month toward $1,698 in court assessments. Marshall will serve 12 months with a home tether unit. He has no releases except for doctor and probation appointments. Marshall must attend Alcoholics Anonymous three times a week, cognitive-behavior therapy and substance abuse treatment. Charges that were dropped included operating while intoxicated, third offense; operating with license suspended, revoked or denied, second or subsequent offense; plus habitual offender, fourth offense. Crystofer James Penrose, 27, of Hastings was sentenced Aug. 23 for breaking and entering with intent and escaping custody. Penrose was ordered to serve 30 to 240 months in jail, with credit for 120 days served. He must pay $516 in court assessments. Restitution is to be determined. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 For Sale National Ads Help Wanted AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 ATTN: LOCAL PEOPLE needed to work from home online. $500-$4500 per month. Please call 1-888-6724954. ELIMINATE YOUR HEATING bill. Outdoor Wood Furnace from Central Boiler. D-2 Outdoor Wood Boilers. (616)877-4081. THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is deceptive, fraudulent or might otherwise violate law or accepted standards of taste. However, this publication does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the quality of goods or services advertised. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made in any advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you ask for money in advance of delivery of goods or services advertised. ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR: Barry-Eaton District Health Department is seeking a motivated individual to assist with oversight of the agency operations. Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Finance, or Healthcare Administration required. Administrative experience required, including healthcare finance, budgeting, auditing and accounting standards. Prefer experience with governmental fund accounting. Please see our website for complete job posting and application instructions: http://www.barryeatonhealth.org/JobOpenings.as px. EOE WOOD HEAT- CLEAN, safe & thermostatically controlled. Central Boiler Classic Outdoor Wood Furnace. 25 year warranty. Great summer sale. Call SOS your “Stocking Dealer” Dutton, MI (616)554-8669 or (616)915-5061. Estate Sale ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. Garage Sale DIXIE’S GARAGE SALE: Friday-Saturday, August 31st-September 1st, 9am5pm, 1005 N. Glenwood Drive (Taffee Addition), Hastings. Good women’s clothing size 10, men’s Tall XL, furniture, household items, bikes, little bit of everything. Stadel-Manshum household. GARAGE SALE FRIDAYSATURDAY, August 31stSeptember 1st, 9am-5pm. Two nice Schwinns, entertainment center, etc. 3061 Heath Road, Hastings. Automotive 2003 CADILLAC ESCALADE: loaded 85,000mi. 20”/wheels, 6 disc CD player, Boise System, leather heated seats front & back. $14,000 (269)945-5571 RICK TAYLOR’S DETAIL WORKS. The only professional detail service. Call (269)948-0958. PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 In Memoriam IN MEMORY OF Danny Dodge There are no words that can say what we all are wishing we could, to make your passing acceptable. A tragedy that never should have happened. For only God knows; he thought you were needed in Heaven. For those that miss you and are still mourning, you have taught us many things; we judge less, regret less, talk more, say love you more, respect every day more, thank God more just for everything. Our hearts go out to Danny’s family for they are the strongest people we have ever met. We will always commend them for raising a kindhearted, down-to-Earth, amazing young man. Please always look twice for motorcycles. Daniel S. Dodge Jan. 6, 1989 - Aug. 25, 2011 The family of Tom Tepastte, Sr. DAY SHIFT CNC machinist opening, prior experience not required but mechanical aptitude is needed, with desire to learn and good work ethic. E-mail resume to: cncapprentice@core.com If no resume give contact info with basic prior work experience. Farm FOR SALE: DOCTOR’S style 1 horse carriage, call (269)948-8508 leave message. Recreation WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are interested in leasing acreage for this years deer season. Call (269)795-3049 HASTINGS BANNER SUBSCRIPTIONS are available for $35 per year in Barry County. Call (269) 9459554. Business Services BOOKKEEPING SERVICES Personal * Self-Employed * Small Business Payroll * Billing Accounts Receivable * Accounts Payable General Ledger Weekly * Monthly * Quarterly * Annually Call today! (269)420-5714 Cell Phone Boosters Installed Too! 06789216 On Aug. 25, during Summerfest, Hastings Police were called to the Hastings Ace Hardware on East State Street. Three subjects had been taken into custody for retail fraud, but one had run from the store prior to the police arrival. Police learned the three male subjects had been to the special sale tent located behind the Ace Hardware store. While in the tent, one of the three was observed as he picked up skate board wheels priced at $20. The three walked from the tent without paying for the merchandise. They were stopped by store personnel and confronted about the wheels. After one of the three admitted that the wheels were not paid for, they were escorted back to the store where police were called. With one suspect having fled, police spoke with the two remaining subjects. Officers searched a backpack one of the two was carrying for more stolen merchandise. A small quantity of suspected marijuana was found. The individual carrying the backpack explained it belonged to his brother – the one who ran from the scene. Inside the other subject’s backpack officers located a spring-actuated knife, and some brass (steel) knuckles. Both 18-yearold Hastings men are on probation and were arrested. The third suspect is known and the investigation is ongoing. Curtis bound over on another count of criminal sexual conduct �Page 16 — Thursday, August 30, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lakewood fights back twice, concedes 4-3 to Delton Delton Kellogg’s Zach Young (22) slides in to take the ball from Lakewood’s Kyler Knapp. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Jake Waldron of Delton Kellogg heads the ball to redirect it during the game against Lakewood. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Though they fought to hold two scoring advantages, the Delton Panther soccer team finally recorded the game-winning goal with 20 minutes to play in Monday’s tussle with the Lakewood Vikings in Delton. “We looked tired and slow for the second straight game,” assessed Lakewood Coach James LeVeque. “This team is very talented, but will not win games if the energy is not there.” The Vikings did show some spunk after Delton’s Keith Malachowski scored the game’s first goal 25 minutes into the game. Lakewood answered with two goals of its own from Dylan Durkee and Drew Durkee to take a 2-1 halftime lead. After the Panthers opened the second half with goals from Logan Hansen and Zack Simon to take a 3-2 lead, Lakewood came back again to tie the game at 3-3 from Kalib McKinney before Delton sophomore Mark Ordway put the game away with the winning score. Delton held a 14-8 advantage on shots on goal. Viking goalie Brady Forman stopped 10 Panther shots. Hawkeyes win after trading leads with TK in final minutes by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Trojans couldn’t catch the Hawkeyes’ quarterback. Aaron Ordway’s extra-point kick with 2:37 to play, following a five-yard touchdown run by quarterback Grant Allison, put Thornapple Kellogg up one point Friday at Hamilton. The host Hawkeyes managed to move the length of the field in just over a minute, stealing a 27-20 victory with a 29-yard touchdown run by quarterback Nick Kronemeyer that came with just 1:23 left on the clock. “They ran the quarterback. That’s what did it to us,” said Thornapple Kellogg head coach Chad Ruger. “They spread us out and we danced up the middle. He ran outside once, he ran inside once, and that was all they needed.” The Trojans had trailed most of the evening, after a 20-yard TD run by Kronemeyer in the opening quarter. Kronemeyer then put his team up 13-0 with a 16-yard touchdown pass to Trenton Haverdink early in the second quarter. Ruger wasn’t happy his team fell into the early hole, but was happy to see the team’s ability to fight out of it. “I was disappointed with the way that we came out,” Ruger said. “A lot of the guys out there, it was their first varsity football game as a starter. We came out a little bit timid and didn’t play the way that we can.” The Hawkeyes still led by 13 at the half, 19-6, after the two teams traded TDs in the second quarter. Addison Schipper scored TK’s first points Celebrate the S A XON SPIRIT with a PRE-GAME TAILGATE PARTY THURSDAY, AUG. 30 TH To show community support for our football team and the spirit of being a Saxon, HASTINGS AREA SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS MEET AND GREET FOR THE NEW SCHOOL YEAR is sponsoring a tailgate party with free grilled hot dogs, chips and a drink to anyone before the game with Hopkins High School, starting at 5:30 p.m. at the main entrance to Baum Stadium at Johnson Field. The game will start at 7 p.m. SAXON SPIRIT ... let it show! 77570728 of the season on an eight-yard run with 7:14 left before the half. The Hawkeyes got those points back, though, on a 34-yard touchdown run by Kronemeyer with 21 seconds left before the break. Kronemeyer completed 11 of 17 passes in the game for 183 yards, and rushed 15 times for 92 yards. Tommy Schreur, who had 13 carries for 157 yards, led the Hawkeyes on the ground. The Trojans pulled within a touchdown in the third quarter as a two-yard touchdown run by Allison, and Ordway’s extra-point kick, accounted for the only points of the period. Allison was 9 of 14 passing, for 129 yards. His top target was Nate Stahl, who caught five balls for 88 yards. Allison also paced TK’s ground attack, rushing 12 times for 132 yards. Schipper added 11 rushes for 38 yards. CJ Bronkema and Garrett Harris had six tackles each to lead the Trojan defense, and Kameryn Kidder added 4. Harris also intercepted a pass. The Trojans did get one last shot at coming back, but Allison was intercepted, for the second time, as the Trojans moved inside the Hawkeye 30-yard-line in the final seconds. The Trojans will play their home opener against Caledonia Thursday. Ruger said he doesn’t expect to have to do anything extra to get the guys fired up at the start and ready to go when they host the Scots. TK girls finish strong in cross country opener In a 10-team field that included powerhouse and former conference rival Forest Hills Eastern at the Wayland Wildcat Cross Country Invitational, the Trojan cross country team made its season debut Saturday by finishing a strong third. Senior Casey Lawson, a three-time allconference performer and two-time all-state runner, finished 10th overall and led TK with a 21:05 finish. Freshman Olivia Lamberg followed with a 15th place finish at 21:43.6, sophomore Janie Noah recorded a 17th place at 22:02.9, and juniors Shelbi Shepherd in 24th at 23.:02.3 and Bryn Beyer in 27th at 23:53.7 completed Trojan scoring for 93 total points. Hamilton’s Molly Oren took individual honors with a 19:10.4 tour of the course to help her team finish with 88 points, 58 points behind Forest Hills Eastern’s winning score of 30. Other teams competing were Hopkins (105 points), Northpointe Christian (128), Allegan (171), Wayland (174), Lee (223), Fennville (230) and Wyoming (249). Lakewood’s Daniel Sauers (22) tries to speed by Panther defenders, including Brandon Robbins (10). (Photo by Perry Hardin) Lakewood boys’ soccer wins games on back-to-back nights Olivet’s Joe MacInnes (right) sticks his foot in to try and get the ball away from Lakewood senior midfielder Kyler Knapp during Wednesday’s non-conference contest at Olivet High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Who was going to score goals was one of the big questions for the Lakewood varsity boys’ soccer team coming into the season. The Vikings have been finding answers to that question so far. Lakewood improved to 2-1 on the season with a 4-0 victory at Olivet Wednesday. Viking head coach James LeVeque said the game was much closer than the score indicated though. The Vikings took a 1-0 lead 17 minutes into the game, as Joey Bibbler finished off a Lakewood’s Joey Reed (left) tries to fight his way past Olivet’s Kane Spotts Wednesday evening. (Photo by Perry Hardin) good crossing pass from Dylan Durkee. That 1-0 lead stood for the rest of the first half, and the first half of the second half. It wasn’t until 23 minutes remained on the second half clock that the Vikings found the net again. Bibbler finished the evening with two goals, while Evan Knapp and Kalib McKinney scored once each. Durkee finished with three assists. Brady Forman earned the shut out in net, making five saves. LeVeque said his team looked a bit sluggish, after also taking on Lansing Waverly Tuesday evening. “Overall not our best game of the young season, but a win is a win,” said LeVeque. Tuesday (Aug. 21), the Vikings scored a 71 victory over visiting Lansing Waverly. Lakewood scored three times in the first nine minutes, getting two goals from Durkee in that span. Just three minutes later Waverly got its lone goal of the game to tighten things up a bit. LeVeque said his team was able to fight off the momentum which the Warriors gained from scoring that goal, and his Vikings scored two more times in the final 15 minutes of the first half to go up 5-1. The Vikings tacked on two more goals in the second half, and Forman made eight saves to secure the one. One of Forman’s saves even came on a Warroir penalty kick. “We passed the ball around nicely in the first half, setting up most of our chances,” LeVeque said. “Though in the second half, we got away from our game plan and made it a more competitive game. Drew Durkee and Daniel Sauers played great games for us.” Drew Durkee finished with three goals, and Dylan Durkee had two. The Vikings also got one goal each from McKinney and Cameron Doane. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 30, 2012 — Page 17 Lions lose one of five lopsided KVA Classic contests at WMU by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Even when things didn’t go right for Olivet, they did. The Eagle varsity football team knocked off Maple Valley 41-8 in the fourth game of the Kalamazoo Valley Association Football Classic at Waldo Stadium in Kalamazoo Saturday evening. The only troubles Eagle senior running back Nick Coolidge had were with extrapoint kicks. Coolidge scored two touchdowns and led the Eagle offense with 10 rushes for 68 yards. He found the going easy off left tackle, running through the blocks of left tackle Ric McKim and left guard Todd Candeleria. He took all five carries on the Eagles’ opening drive, a drive that covered 47 yards and ended in a 13-yard TD run by Coolidge. He spun out of two tackles and beat the Lions’ Tommy Mudge to the left end of the goal-line with 6:21 on the clock in the first quarter. When the snap on the extra-point attempt got away, Coolidge who was also the Eagles’ kicker, scooped up the loose ball deep in the backfield and fired a pass ahead to teammate Shane Loney who weaved through the Lions defense for a two-point conversion. On the first play of the Eagles’ next drive, quarterback Trent Strang hit Joseph Barr with a swing pass out in the right flat, and Barr Everyone is in pursuit as Maple Valley's Ryan Nisse races around the left side for a big gain during the third quarter of the KVA Football Classic contest between the Lions and Olivet Eagles at Waldo Stadium in Kalamazoo Saturday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) down runs by Cash Flower in the second half, and a 28-yard touchdown run by Strang. Senior Tyler Hickey started the game at quarterback for the Lions, but was eventually needed at running back for the short-handed Lions. Sophomore Beau Johnson took over under center. He led the team’s lone scoring drive, capping it off with a one-yard TD plunge through the line with 9:23 left to play in the game. He then tossed a two-point pass to Austin Gonser. “I was pretty happy coming out of the scrimmage. I thought we played pretty tough. That team didn’t come tonight. I don’t know,” Lincoln said. The Lions had just 204 yards of offense, 182 yards rushing and 22 yards passing. Brandon Erwin led the Lion attack with 11 rushes for 47 yards. Hickey rushed nine times Constantine shuts out Delton in first KVA Classic contest HHS girls win Lakewood Invite The Ionia boys won by a lot and the Hastings girls won by a little at Wednesday’s Lakewood Invitational. The top three teams in the girls’ standings were separated by just five points. Hastings had five girls finish in the top 14 to earn the day’s championship with 47 points. Belding was second with 50 points, followed by Ionia 52, Holland Black River 89, Maple Valley 129 and Lakewood 158. The Saxons were led by Trista Straube who took individual honors to go along with the team championship. She hit the finish line in 20 minutes 25.4 seconds. Ariel Moore was also in the top ten for the Saxons, finishing eighth in 22:45.8. The rest of the top five for the Saxons included Rachel Rimer 11th in 23:05.6, Taylor Carter 13th in 23:27.2 and Olivia Rose 14th in 23:27.7. Holland Black River’s Allison Vroon was second behind Straube, in 20:46.2. A pack of four runners finished less than a minute apart to lead the Lakewood Vikings. Lora Lee Burrus was first, placing 37th individually in 27:39.1. Lakewood also had Brooke Stahl was 38th in 27:39.1, Emily Wilson 39th in 28:00.3, and Kayla McWhorter just behind them in 41st in 28:18.2. Olivia Loutham was the Vikings’ fifth scorer, placing 46th overall in 29:05.2. Jessica Rushford led the Maple Valley Lions, placing fifth in 22:22.4. Maple Valley also had Hanna Kyle 29th overall in 25:47.5, Emma Mcglocklin 31st in 26:17.8, Lynzie Trumble 44th in 28:50.6 and Ivy Braden 45th in 29:04.0. Ionia took the day’s boys’ title with 22 points. Belding was second with 49, followed by Holland Black River 70, Hastings 104, Maple Valley 116 and Lakewood 168. Nemetz swings into second at Northpointe Invitational Saxon Kylee Nemetz shot an 84 on a par 74 to take second place overall in the Northpointe Christian Invitational last week. Hastings took fifth place with a 387 overall, being edged out of fourth by Rockford with a 386. Other Saxons included Lindsey Kloosterman with 92, earning her 11th place; Katie Brown shot a 101; Courtney Rybiski a 110; and Ashley Potter stroking 119. Sixteen varsity girls golf teams participated in the summer tournament at Railside including Northpointe Christian 354; Forest Hills Central 359; and South Christian 368. East Grand Rapids shot a 399 with Catholic Central at 454. Lakewood girls near top at their first two tournaments The Lakewood varsity girls’ golf team is off to a great start. The Vikings fired a school record for an 18-hole round, a 362 at Thursday’s Lakewood Invitational which was held at WillowWood Golf Course. It was good enough for third place for the Vikings, behind Okemos (Black) which shot a 328 and Hackett Catholic Central which fired a 337. “This was a strong field of teams today,” said Lakewood head coach Carl Kutch. “I am very proud of our team effort.” Olivia Barker led Lakewood with an 83 and Emily Barker fired an 85. The Viking team also had Victoria Hager shoot a 94 and Kennedy Hilley fire a 100. Olivia was sixth individually, and Emily eighth. “Olivia and Emily Barker both had a solid all-around effort today,” Kutch said. “Emily chipped in for eagle on hole number 15. Victoria Hager has made some wonderful improvement in her game since last season, particularly off the tee.” Behind the top three teams, Holt shot a 365, Okemos (Maroon) 371, DeWitt 385, Grand Ledge 388, Wayland 388, Hackett Catholic Central ‘B’ 408 and Charlotte 532. Okemos’ Ellie Nichols was the individual champion, with a six-under-par 65 that coach Kutch said is a course record at WillowWood. The Lakewood girls weren’t too far off that 362 at the Mason Invitational Monday (Aug. 20). The Vikings finished second with a 364, again finishing behind and Okemos team that shot a 334. Okemos (Maroon) took the title, with the Okemos (White) team third with a 396. Mason was fourth with a 399, followed by Lincoln 416, Owosso 438, Howell 443, St. Johns 468, Charlotte 487 and Saline 499. “I am very proud and encouraged by what I saw out there today,” Kutch said. “Emily and Victoria really teamed up well in this event. Emily had two birdies on her own ball.” Hager and Emily teamed up to take first in the best-ball competition, with a score of 78. Bryonna Barton and Mariah Krikke formed a scramble team and shot a 97. The Vikings’ two individual shooters were Olivia Barker and Kennedy Hilley. Barker was third individually with a 92. Hilley shot a 97. Ionia had four of the top five runners, and six in the top 11. The Bulldogs’ Brice Brown was the individual champion in 17:14.3 and his teammate Brandon Winter was second in 17:20.8. Hastings was paced by Ronnie Collins in 13th place with a time of 18:53.7. The Saxons also had Jake Miller 15th in 19:05.8, Chance Miller 23rd in 19:51.1, Garrett Bowers 29th in 20:31.4 and Lucas Elliott 36th in 21:22.1. Kyle Brumm led the Maple Valley team, finishing in 19:20.6. The Lions also had Micah Bromley was 21st in 19:45.7, Austin Rood 26th in 20:21.3, Sam Benedict 27th in 20:21.7 and Andrew Brighton 39th in 21:41.0. Traviss Wilkerson was the top runner for the host Vikings, finishing in 32nd place in 20:46.6. In between the Vikings’ two experienced runners was a freshman, Ben Wakely. He was 37th in 21:24.9. The Vikings’ Nolan Stoepker came in 44th in 22:13.2. Two other Lakewood freshmen brought up the rear of the Viking pack, with Tyler McDiarmid and Treston McGarry finishing 57th (24:14.1) and 69th respectively 32:30.6). Senior Parker Brighton was the Vikings’ fourth scorer on the day Wednesday, finishing 54th in 23:40.8. Editor’s note: Readers will likely notice with this week’s coverage that our papers are temporarily without the services of sports editor Brett Bremer, who is recovering from eye surgery and is expected to return to his place on the sidelines soon. In his absence, fellow staff members, with welcomed help from coaches, athletic directors and parents, are attempting to provide sports coverage as close as possible to the quality that our “team captain” furnishes each week. Thank you for your understanding. for 45 yards and Ryan Nisse added seven rushes for 41 yards. Olivet had 187 yards of rushing offense and 98 yards passing. Strang completed all four of his pass attempts for those 98 yards. Erwin led the Lion defense with 12 tackles. Garrett Mater had nine and Gonser eight. Scott Cook led the Eagle defense with 15 tackles. The Lions return to action Thursday in their home opener against Delton Kellogg. Delton Kellogg also fell in its opener, 60-0 to Constantine. The average margin of victory in the five KVA Football Classic games at Western Michigan University was 37 points. Pennfield also defeated Hackett Catholic Central 56-25, Kalamazoo Christian beat Galesburg-Augusta 41-6, and Schoolcraft topped Parchment 40-14. Delton Kellogg was the first of five teams to suffer a lopsided loss at the 2012 Kalamazoo Valley Association Football Classic at Waldo Stadium in Kalamazoo. The league favorites from Constantine ran over the Lions for a 60-0 victory to start the season Saturday morning. Constantine’s Payton White and Ben Mallo each had a pair of touchdown runs in the contest. White scored both of his touchdowns in the opening quarter, as the Falcons built a 33-0 lead before the first 12 minutes were up. Constantine pushed its lead to 53-0 at the half. White finished the game with 85 yards rushing. Mallo had 97. The Falcons also got 55 yards on the ground from Cody Hartwick and 42 from Logan Balcom. Falcon quarterback Tommy Reed completed both of his pass attempts for 73 yards. White’s touchdown runs covered six and 52 yards in the opening quarter. Mallo added a five-yard touchdown run, Andres Montoya scored on a 39-yard run, and Jeff Steiner added an eight-yard touchdown run. The Falcons scored on three long touchdown runs in the second quarter. Mallo scored from 56 yards out. Justin Hall then added a 25-yard touchdown run, and Hartwick scored on a 53-yard run. The Falcons final points came on a 16yard touchdown run by Sawyer Brown in the fourth quarter and the fourth Hartwick extra-point of the game. Delton quarterback Zach Leinaar completed seven of his 19 pass attempts for 142 yards. Cameron Tobias caught two passes for 63 yards, and Cole Ritchie hauled in one for 32 yards. Josh Arkwright was the Panthers’ leading ground-gainer, rushing three times for 21 yards. The average margin of victory in the five KVA Football Classic games was 37 points, with Pennfield, Kalamazoo Christian, Olivet and Schoolcraft the day’s other winners. TK’s Walter already running out front at Wayland Invitational With his eyes on qualifying for the state final cross country meet this season, Thornapple Kellogg junior David Walter served notice Saturday at the Wayland Invitational that he’s a speeding force with which to be reckoned. Walter, who missed last year’s ultimate goal of qualifying for the Division 2 State Finals, chased Forest Hills Eastern’s Mowgli Crosby to the finish tape, falling just 14 seconds short of Crosby’s 17:22.7 winning time. Walter’s runner-up finish helped the Trojans to a 108 total point score to finish fourth in an 11-team field behind Forest Hills Eastern at 59 points, Wayland at 75, and Allegan at 98. Walter finished at 17:22.7 and was followed by teammates Austin Lavire in 14th place at 19:12.4, Joe Gaikema in 28th at 20:10.5, Daniel Vannette in 31st at 20:17.8, and sophomore Wyatt DeLeeuw at 20:23.0. Saturday’s invitational was a good setup for the Sept. 26 conference showdown between the fourth place Trojans and second place Wildcats. TK opens conference competition Sept. 19 at Johnson Park against Hastings and Grand Rapids Catholic Central. SAXON WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE Complete online schedule at: www.hassk12.org THURSDAY, AUGUST 30 7:00 PM Boys Varsity Football Hopkins High School H Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, P.C. WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 3:45 PM Girls JV Golf Holland Christian HS H THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 3:45 PM Girls Varsity Golf 4:30 PM 5:00 PM 5:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:30 PM 7:00 PM Boys Boys Girls Girls Boys Girls Fresh. JV Fresh. JV JV Varsity Football Soccer Volleyball Volleyball Football Volleyball GR Catholic Central OK Gold Jam @ Catholic Central Forest Hills Northern Marshall HS South Christian HS South Christian HS Forest Hills Northern South Christian HS Thanks to This Week’s Sponsor: A H H A A H A Times and dates subject to change “Quality Care with Compassion” 840 Cook Rd. Hastings, MI 49058 Phone: 269-945-9520 Toll Free: 800-596-1005 Contact us on the web @ www.hoc-mi.com HASTINGS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS Contact Nancy 945-2742 or hastingsathleticboosters@gmail.com to sponsor the schedule 77570679 Maple Valley's Brandon Erwin (top) and Austin Gonser (bottom) team up to bring down Olivet's Nick Coolidge on a punt return during the first quarter of Saturday's contest at Waldo Stadium in Kalamazoo. (Photo by Brett Bremer) raced 57 yards for a second Eagle score. This tim,e Coolidge’s extra-point kick banged off the right upright to make it 14-0 with 4:44 left in the first quarter. “They just knocked us off the ball all night long,” said Maple Valley head coach Brian Lincoln. “We weren’t ready from the get-go. The first quarter was disgusting and then anything bad that could happen seemed to happen.” Lincoln challenged his lines to match the Eagles’ drive in the trenches following that second touchdown, and the Lions did pick up their play. They put together one of their best drives of the game, between the end of the first and start of the second quarter, but it eventually petered out near the Eagle 30yard-line. The Eagles pushed their lead to 21-0 at the half, adding a four-yard touchdown run by Coolidge, and his first of three straight extrapoint conversions. Olivet tacked on five- and 43-yard touch- �Page 18 — Thursday, August 30, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Hastings overpowers Lakewood in annual football opener by Brett Bremer Sports Editor “Bigger” and “stronger.” Those were the two words new Lakewood varsity football coach Nick Boucher used to describe Hastings. The Saxons opened the 2012 varsity football season with a 52-0 victory over the Vikings at Lakewood High School Friday. The Saxons rushed the ball 50 times for 422 yards. Each one of the Saxons’ seven drives ended in a touchdown run. “They’re bigger and stronger than us,” said Boucher. “I mean, they would have a wall, and our guys couldn’t get through it because you’ve got a blocker with a defender coming at them and a running back hides behind him. They did a great job of just running over us, and that’s something we can’t fix right now. We lived in the weight room this summer, but you can’t expect to have magic in three months. You don’t just become Arnold Schwarzenegger in three months.” Stephen Shaffer led the Saxon attack, carrying the ball 11 times for 124 yards and two touchdowns. He was one of 12 Hastings ball carriers on the night, and one of six guys who scored TDs running for the most part behind the front line of Stefan Horvat, Eric Hart, Nate Pewoski, Jake Swartz and Taylor Horton. Saxon fullback Stephen Shaffer is caught from behind by Lakewood's Paul Hager at the end of a long run late in the first quarter Friday. (Photo by Brett Bremer “They’re an experienced football team,” Hastings head coach Fred Rademacher said of Hastings' Kenny Cross leaps up to intercept a pass in front of Lakewood receiver Tyler Oesch during the second quarter at Unity Field Friday night. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Hastings students celebrate their team's 24-0 lead late in the first half at Lakewood High School Friday, during the annual season opener between the Saxons and Vikings. (Photo by Brett Bremer) his Saxons. “We’ve got a lot of guys that played a lot of football last year. Our lower level coaches do a great job of preparing them so when they do get to varsity they’re ready for all the situations. They’ve worked hard and done what they needed to do. We always talk about, ‘do what you need to do during the week and Fridays will be fun,’ and we proved it tonight.” The Vikings need to do more than get bigger and stronger. They just need time in the new offense coach Boucher is trying to install. “There are a lot of different formations and shifting and motion, and the kids need to have that down,” Boucher said. “A lot of times, they’re thinking about what they’re doing and they get lost on where we’re going. That’s expected. We’ve been basically putting it in for two months, and they’ve never done anything like this. It’s really all new to them. I felt like there, at times, we could move the ball.” The Viking offense never got much going on the ground, going against the bigger Saxon defensive front. Zach Kilbourn was the Vikings’ top rusher with six carries for 19 yards. Shaffer scored the first touchdown of the game with 9:19 left on the clock in the first quarter, capping the Saxons’ 65-yard opening drive with a two-yard plunge into the end zone. He would add a 46-yard touchdown run in the second quarter. The Saxons also got a one-yard TD run on a quarterback sneak up the middle by Chase Huisman and a seven-yard touchdown run by Jon French in the second quarter, which made it 32-0 at the half. Hastings tacked on twopoint conversion runs after all five first-half touchdowns. Logan Clements scored on a 10-yard run in the third quarter for Hastings’ only points of the period. The Saxons then tacked on a 23yard touchdown run by Mike Mansfield, a two-yard touchdown run by Dillon Wilkinson and two extra-point kicks from Pewoski in the fourth. “I think it was just an all-around team effort,” Rademacher said. “A lot of people scored touchdowns. The offensive line created big holes. Defensively, we put a rush on, we had some interceptions, linebackers filled. It’s really one of those, we preach ‘team,’ and they played great team football.” The Saxons’ Kenny Cross intercepted Potter twice for the only two turnovers of the game. Boucher did see some bright spots, especially along the offensive front. “On the offensive line, Lars [Pyrzinski] looked really good. He was really getting off the ball, and anytime he was moving, he looked really good. I thought Alex Potter had a pretty good game throwing the ball. He probably threw more tonight than he’s thrown in his entire career. Kyle Kneale looked pretty good at center.” The Vikings’ best drive was probably their first. Quarterback Alex Potter play-faked, rolled right and hit Tyler Rush for a 49-yard completion into Hastings territory. The drive eventually stalled, though, inside the Saxon 10-yard-line, and Hastings’ Michael Eastman knocked down a Potter pass at the line of scrimmage on fourth down to end the scoring threat. Potter was six of 13 passing on the night, for 120 yards. Rush caught three passes for 97 yards. The Vikings will look to rebound when they head to Belding Thursday. Hastings will play its home opener Thursday against Hopkins. TK’s first loss of the season comes in third tournament Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity volleyball team suffered its first defeat of the season Friday, after winning its first two tournaments of the season. Holland edged the Trojans 25-23, 25-20 in the semifinals of the WMVOA Tournament at Caledonia High School. The Trojans are now 15-1-1 on the season. TK head coach Patty Pohl said her team struggled to relax and play aggressively in the semifinals, which held it back a bit. Jessica Ziccarello again led the Trojans in kills on the day, with 24. Jessica Morgan added 15. Sydney Krol had eight aces for TK. Alaina Pohl finished the day with 73 assists. More than 400 join milestone fun run Twenty sponsors and more than 60 volunteers helped to carry out the 25th annual Summerfest Fun Run, hosted by the Barry County Substance Abuse Prevention Council. More than 400 people, from newborns to grandparents, took part in the mile-long event that began and ended at Hastings Middle School. Finishers were provided with T-shirts, water bottles, bottled water and tote bags. Here, runners and walkers head down South Jefferson Street. “The Summerfest Fun Run is an amazing event,” said Liz Lenz, who co-coordinated the event with Marc Zimmerman. “For 25 years, this event has become a family tradition for many, and we are thrilled to see familiar faces. The fun run is a great way to kick off another great start to a great school year with the Drug-Free Crowd.” Vikings win once in all four flights at Thursday’s tourney With competitors at just half the flights, Lakewood’s varsity boys’ tennis team had a seventh place finish at Thursday’s LakewoodPortland Combine. The Vikings that did take the court had two fourth- and two sixth-place finishes in the 07607975 It’s Your Time, Rejoin Your Life! One Orthopedic Center. Unlimited Innovation Just For You! At Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, we specialize in allowing our patients to rejoin their life through Physical Medicine, Treatment of Degenerative Conditions, Pain Management, and Neurostimulation Therapy. Our Pain Management Clinic is here to improve your quality of life, alleviate your suffering and help you cope with long-term painful conditions. Pain is considered by a number of people as a simple problem, although, it can be a very complex and challenging situation. The goal is to eliminate the pain and to help the patient live a healthy and functional lifestyle. Our Orthopedic Clinic has earned a reputation as a true leader in the field of orthopedic medicine and complex fracture care. Each of our surgeons have gained expertise through extensive training in orthopedic trauma, hand and upper extremity care, sports medicine, and joint replacement surgery. As orthopedic traumatologists, we can help you make a full comeback! Call Today. (269) 945-9520 From left to right: James L. Horton, Jr., D.O., Orthopedic Surgeon; David J. Heeringa, D.O., Orthopedic Surgeon; Eric S. Leep, D.O., Physical Medicine; Kenneth S. Merriman, M.D., Orthopedic Surgeon. Scan to visit us online! Molly Lark had 34 digs. The Trojans had just won the 16-team NorthPointe Christian Invitational Tuesday (Aug. 21), knocking off Greenville 25-18, 2519 in the finals. Ziccarello led the Trojans with 28 kills, and Sydney LeMay wasn’t too far behind with 26. Nicole Schondelmayer added 17 kills and Morgan 15. Alaina Pohl passed out 94 assists. Crystal Smith had a team-high nine aces. Lark led the Trojans with 43 digs on the day. The Trojans also won their own TK Invitational Aug. 18. eight team tournament. The day’s other host, Portland, won the team title with 59 points thanks in part to four first-place finishes. Otsego was second with 50 points, followed by Traverse City Central 44, Jackson 38, Leslie/Lansing Christian 25, Wayland 25, Lakewood 16 and Ionia 7. Lakewood first singles player Stephen Nisbet had one of his team’s two fourth-place finishes. He edged Ionia’s Cody Nutt in a super tie-breaker, 6-4, 3-6, (12-10) to start the day, but then fell to Portland’s top player, Chance Conley 6-0, 6-0. Conley won the first singles flight, dropping only one game in his three matches. Jackson’s Seth Lyons then edged Nisbet in the match for third place, 76(9), 4-6, (10-5). The other fourth-place finish for Lakewood came at third singles, where Parker Haskin opened action with a 6-2, 6-2 win over Leslie/Lansing Christian’s Marcus Fields. Haskin then fell to Portland’s Zach Platte, the eventual flight champion, 6-1, 6-0. Like Nisbet, Haskin came up just short in a close match for third. He was downed by Jackson’s Josh Mathias 7-6(0), 6-3. Lakewood’s David Parks was sixth at second singles, with a 7-5, 6-3 win over Ionia’s John Whiting. At first doubles, Lakewood had the team of Spencer Heyl and Evan Petersen place sixth by beating the top duo from Ionia 6-0, 3-6, (10-8). Portland won the top two singles flights, and also added championships at second and fourth doubles. Otsego had the day’s other two singles champs, while the other two doubles wins went to Traverse City Central. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-09-13.pdf bf0ad8569c0700813ad3a8d0f98bd72f PDF Text Text GED program success rate exceeds goal Events of Sept. 11 shook the nation Area runners among fastest at TK Invite See Story on Page 2 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 16 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 36 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, September 13, 2012 Green Street to remain open to traffic on Halloween NEWS BRIEFS Chamber event is tonight at Middleville YMCA camp The Barry County Chamber of Commerce will host the September Business After Hours event at Grand Rapids YMCA’s Camp Manitou-Lin Thursday, Sept. 13, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Camp Manitou-Lin is a year-round facility on Barlow Lake located at 1095 Briggs Road, Middleville, north of the Yankee Springs State Recreational Area. Attendees of the Business After Hours Event at Camp Manitou-Lin will be entered in a drawing for a door prize of $25 in Chamber Barry Bucks, which can be spent at any of over 150 Chamber member businesses throughout the county. RSVP to Carol Vogt, 269 945-2454, or by email to carol@mibarry.com. The Barry County Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours Events are held the second Thursday of every month from 4:30 6 p.m. The next event will be Oct. 11 at the Long Lake Outdoor Center. For a complete schedule of future events, visit the chamber’s website, www.mibarry.com/tourism/calendar. To learn more about chamber membership, email Byrnes, valerie@mibarry.com. Bernard group to meet Tuesday Bernard Historical Society will hold its monthly meeting Tuesday, Sept. 18, at the Delton Kellogg Middle School library, beginning at 7 p.m. A business meeting will be followed by a presentation by Mike Wachowski on the craft of micro-brewing. Alzheimer’s workshop planned The Michigan chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association will present a workshop at the Barry County Commission Aging, 320 W. Woodlawn Ave., Hastings, Thursday, Sept. 20, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. The workshop will teach local residents how to identify the differences between dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, recognize possible symptoms and signs of the disease, understand how the disease is diagnosed, recognize the effects of Alzheimer’s on the brain and gain access to community resources. Alzheimer’s disease is not a normal part of aging, said Lisa Vickers of the Michigan chapter. The progressive and fatal brain disease that is the most common form of dementia. About 196,000 people in Michigan are living with Alzheimer’s disease, she said, 1,100 of them in Barry County. Advance registration for the workshop is required. To register or learn more about the upcoming program, visit www.alz.org/mglc or call 800-272-3900. Keep your friends and relatives INFORMED! Send them The Hastings BANNER To subscribe, call us at... 269-945-9554 by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer It is said that life is priceless. However, some members of the Hastings City Council felt that the approximately $850 it would cost the city in overtime pay to have workers from its department of public services to set up and remove barricades before and after trick-ortreating outweighed the possibility of a child getting hurt Halloween night on West Green Street. “I still have children young enough to trick-or-treat ... but, $850 to close off one street?” said trustee Jeri DePue. Trustee Bill Redman said that earlier in the day he had talked to 15 or 16 residents on Green Street and none of them objected to the closure. “I think the safety aspect of this is something that is above and beyond anything else,” said Redman. “There is a high concentration of kids on this street at that time.” Trustee Barry Wood asked why the city should close a portion of Green Street and not others. “We have children all over the community,” he said. “Because Taffee and Grant Street don’t yield 1,500 people,” responded Trustee Dave Tossava. With Mayor Bob May and Trustee Don Bowers absent, the council needed five of the seven members present to vote in favor of a motion in order for it to be approved. Mayor pro-tem Brenda McNabb-Stange and trustees DePue and Wood voted against a motion to close the street during trick-or-treating, while trustees Tossava, Dave Jasperse, Waylon Black and Redman voted in its favor. Lacking the requisite five votes, the motion failed, 4-3. West Green Street is inarguably the busiest street in Hastings on Halloween night. Each year, residents living on West Green between South Broadway and Cass Street report more than 1,000 children seeking candy during the city’s official trick-or-treating hours of 5 to 8 p.m. While the Hastings City Police Department has no record of a child being struck by a vehicle or seriously injured during trick-ortreating despite the dark and heavy pedestrian and vehicular traffic during the event, citizens have expressed concern that it is only a matter of time before someone is hurt. That con- cern led former council member Dave MacIntyre to approach the council earlier this year with a request to close the busiest portion of the street during trick-or-treating to make it safer for children and families. Later, during public comment, city resident Mike Snyder said he was disappointed with the council’s decision. “I think it is very important that you consider that [issue] some more for the safety of our children,” Snyder told the council members. “That should be the number one goal of this council— the safety of our people. Green Street is heavily traveled. There are a lot kids down there, and they get excited and half of them run out into the street. It only takes one injury to wipe the whole thing out.” In other business, the council: • Held a public hearing on the city’s urban services and economic development agreement with Rutland Charter Township. No one from the community or council commented. Rutland Charter Township held a public hearing on the agreement Wednesday evening. The township and the city must wait 30 days after the public hearings to take formal action on the agreement. • Approved a request from Janine Dalman, executive director of marketing at Pennock Hospital, to hold a community kickball tournament fundraiser at Fish Hatchery Park Sunday, Oct. 14. • Approved a motion supporting a second Gus Macker tournament to be held in Hastings sometime in June 2013. • Approved a motion to allow temporary signage and sidewalk sales during Girls Night Out, which is slated for 5 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 4. • Awarded a bid of $9,541.62 to I.S. Midwest for self-contained breathing apparatus bottles for air packs, as recommended by Hastings Fire Chief Roger Caris. • Authorized Consumers Energy to remove a streetlight at the intersection of Mill Street and Michigan Avenue. The council also approved a motion to authorize Consumers to install a street light on the 1000 block of Mill Street. • Discussed keeping the RV dump station open until 4 p.m. The dump station is currently open from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The council did not take action but reached an informal decision to revisit the matter in the spring. Informal count shows Hastings Area Schools enrollment down by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer An informal early count indicates that, as projected, there are 50 less students attending Hastings Area Schools this year than there were during the 2011-12 school year. During Tuesday’s Hastings Board of Education work session, superintendent Todd Geerlings said a first-week count showed a student population of 2,808, four less than the board budgeted for when it approved the district’s 2012-13 budget. According to Geerlings, there are 18 fewer elementary students in the district with the School board bid is short, but Williams will never stop giving by Doug VanderLaan Editor Once an educator, always an educator — even after more than 30 years of work in the classroom. Education has been in his blood since the day, sitting on the “diag” at the University of Michigan, Steve Williams was struck by the calling. It’s why, after he retired, he put his hat in the ring for election to the Hastings school board this November. Unfortunately, the 1967 Hastings High School graduate recently discovered something else is in his blood, too. “They call it aplastic anemia,” relates Williams, “but, while it could get to be serious, right now I feel good and my tests keep coming back good.” The diagnosis was serious enough, however, to convince Williams to withdraw from the November race, a decision he announced Tuesday at the school board’s work session. “I wouldn’t want to join the board in January, if I were elected, and then have something come up in March or April that would force me to resign,” explains Williams, 62. “That would create an interruption of the board, and we’ve had far too many interruptions in the past few years. Plus, I’ve been advised to stay away from potentially stressful situations.” Williams doesn’t rule out a future board run if health concerns ease or finding some other capacity in which he can serve the district. That’s the part of his blood that convinces him to never leave education. When Williams left U of M — after arriving in 1969, the same year football coaching legend Bo Schembechler came and, that November, dropped Ohio State and Coach Woody Hayes — he returned to Hastings where, as a substitute teacher, he began his career. Stints at Thornapple Kellogg and Plymouth Salem High School on the east side of the state preceded what he considers to be his most rewarding years at Forest Hills Public Schools where he spent his final 28 years as a media and technical director. Among his notable accomplishments was co-founding that district’s international relations program in which he led 40 to 50 students each year to visitations and competitions throughout the United States — and achieved national recognition for their efforts. Plus, there still are all the investments that greatest decrease at the kindergarten level. He said the middle school count was 653, four less than the projected 657, while the high school count, including 50 alternative education students was 937, which is 44 more than the projected 893. The official count day for Hastings and all public school districts in Michigan is Wednesday, Oct. 4. Geerlings also gave the board an update on a Hastings Educational Support Staff Association unfair labor practice claim filed in June on behalf of 10 instructional support staff members. Geerlings said he hoped to have the matter resolved before the board’s regular meeting in October. School board candidate Steve Williams announced at the meeting that he was withdrawing from the race due to health issues. He said it is too late to have his name removed from the ballot. Williams withdrawal means there will be no races during the school election Tuesday, Nov. 6. Incumbent trustee John Hart is running unopposed for his partial term which ends Dec. 31, 2014. Newcomers Valerie Slaughter and Louis Wierenga are now running unopposed for two six-year terms that will expire Dec. 31, 2018. The seats are currently held by trustees Patricia Endsley and Gene Haas, who are not seeking re-election. Cows on the run testing county’s animal control enforcement ordinance Health concerns may have halted his run for school board, but Steve Williams will always be an educational leader. come back to pay dividends nearly every day. “It’s hard for me to believe the number of students who remember me from the past,” he marvels. “Some I was tough on, but they’ll walk up to me today and say, ‘I deserved it, Mr. Williams.’ It’s just amazing that, after more than 30 years, these kids still remember.” Williams is still building future memories today. His community work as a member of the Kiwanis Club and the chamber of commerce and his support of causes such as United Way, Green Gables Haven, and Spiritual Care Consultants always carries education ties. Williams started the Kiwanis Club tradition of providing all third graders a personal dictionary. “Most times, it’s the first book kids get that is all theirs,” he says with pride. As a board member, Williams believed he would have had a lot to offer the people of Hastings. As a community member he knows he still will. by Doug VanderLaan Editor Its recent success in resolving the county’s dilemma over the control and shelter of dogs and cats has apparently made the Barry County Board of Commissioners the arbiter for all animal problems — including cows. “I come here to speak to you commissioners about an unfortunate incident regarding some cattle running at large on Nashville Road at River Road,” said Hastings resident Eldon Shellenbarger during the public comment period of Tuesday’s commission meeting. “I talked to a couple of farmers in the area and one said that he knew they’d been running loose for five and a half weeks. As far as he knew, they were abandoned.” Shellenbarger, who said he swerved into an oncoming lane to avoid a recent nighttime collision, told commissioners he had sustained damage to his car and filed a police report. His bigger concern, however, and the reason for his appearance before the county board, was the lack of response by the sheriff’s department to a potentially deadly situation. “I contacted the sheriff’s department and they said they knew nothing of it,” continued Shellenbarger, of one farmer’s claim that he had complained to the central dispatch unit at the sheriff’s department five weeks previous regarding the loose cattle. “I asked them to see what they could do through animal control, I asked for an investigation and all I get is a run-around. “This is a real public safety hazard, I could have been killed or injured. This is an animal control issue, and enforcement is not being done when animals are running at large ... The animal enforcement ordinance covers any type of law enforcement by animal control officers. “Central Dispatch knew for five weeks that cattle has been running at large ... My issue is public safety because, if I had been killed or injured, then the county would have been on the hook for a lawsuit because of unlawful death.” Shellenbarger charged that he had been told by a county officer that the sheriff’s department had no interest in investigating. Other than Commissioner Don Nevins who asked, then suggested, that Shellenbarger talk to Sheriff Dar Leaf — and was then reminded that he could not respond during the public comment period — commissioners quietly accepted Shellenbarger’s comments. Following the meeting, Board Chair Craig Stolsonburg suggested the matter is an administrative issue that the commission cannot address. In other business, the county board: • Approved an $18,000 bid for rehabilitation of a home at 233 E. Thorn St., Hastings as part of the Michigan State housing Development Authority HOME Grant program. • Approved amendments to the Barry County Parks and Regulation Ordinance to reflect the current state of Barry County parks and oversight structure, including the changing of the parks and recreation “Board” name to “Commission.” • Approved the 2013 Title IV-D Cooperative Reimbursement Program application for the Barry County Prosecutor’s Office to the Michigan Department of Human Services, a three-year contract that will provide the county $112,324 in reimbursement funds through fiscal year 2015. • Approved the 2013 Title IV-D Cooperative Reimbursement Program application for the Barry County Friend of the Court to the Michigan Department of Human Services, a three-year contract that will provide the county $1,998,958 in reimbursement funds through fiscal year 2015. • Approved the retiree health funding vehicle trust fund with an initial deposit of a $1,041,302 from the 100 percent tax payment fund, reducing the annual required funding of the Barry County retiree health plan by approximately $100,000 annually. The commission will next meet as a committee of the whole Tuesday, Sept. 18, beginning at 9 a.m. in the commission’s meeting chambers at the Barry County Courthouse. �Page 2 — Thursday, September 13, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Local GED program success rate exceeds goal Forbes represents Freeport in Lansing State Rep. Mike Callton stands with Freeport Area Volunteer Fire Department Lt. Lani Forbes in the state Capitol rotunda Tuesday. Callton, R-Nashville, invited Forbes to a special House session commemorating first responders on the 11th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The ceremony also honored Michigan’s first responders and members of the military who gave their lives in the line of duty during 2011 and 2012. See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits LARGE or small, We Ship It All! Next Time, Ship Your Luggage! We make it simple, convenient and stress-free. by David DeDecker Staff Writer A collaboration between Barry County Community Corrections and the Barry Intermediate School District came together at the beginning of 2012 to offer General Education Development tutoring and testing. The GED preparation program is a class specifically designed for students who are on probation, but also encourages any member from the community interested in the preparation class. In the first eight months, the program has exceeded all expectations. For the general public, the testing success rate is 92 percent and with the court-mandated testers the rate is 87 percent. According to the July 1 quarterly report from the Office of Community Corrections, 33 GED students are enrolled in the current fiscal year, 64 tests have been taken, with 56 tests passed and six diplomas awarded. The GED preparatory course is designed to enable each student to increase competency and mastery in six areas of skill and knowledge, including reading, language arts, language arts, math, science and social studies. To obtain a GED, a student must pass five tests. “The people who have come from the public have completed 168 tests with, 155 tests passed,” said Community Corrections Director Jeff Westra. “So, add that to the 64 and 56 [tests taken and passed] from this program, and it really pumps up the numbers. That many people have come through, tested and bettered themselves.” “We had an initial goal of 65 percent success rate,” he added. “We wanted to see about two-thirds of the people coming through obtain their GEDs. At this point, we have far exceeded our goal.” BISD runs its portion of the program through Michigan Works and prepares people to add a GED to their resumes while job hunting. “The collaboration between the tutoring with the office of corrections and the testing at Barry ISD and the jail has been beneficial to all parties,” said BISD Superintendent Jeff Jennette. “The Barry County Michigan Works office has noticed an increase of individuals wanting a GED for either employment or educational needs, which shows there was a need for a program like this in Hastings.” GED instructor Debi Kruse conducts tutorial classes and prepares students for testing. “She has been an excellent resource for test-takers and does not have them test unless they are ready – this keeps them from wasting their money on a test they are not prepared to take,” said Jennette. “Since March, 36 people from Barry County area now have a GED, with 10 others needing to pass one or two tests to complete the [requirements]. It makes them more employable, which makes Barry County stronger, which was our goal.” For more information on how to obtain a GED, call Michigan Works, 268-945-9545, ext. 111. Classes meet Monday and Wednesday with testing on the second Thursday of each month. Each test costs $15, or $75 for all five tests. Only cash is accepted. After testing goes online Jan. 1, 2014, all previous tests will be null and void. Those who have passed some tests, but not all five, will need to take all the tests online. Kruse said the community has been very supportive of the GED program. “We really appreciate the support of the area businesses,” said Kruse. “Hastings Fiberglass gave us four computers and monitors. Soon, the GED testing will actually will be done on computer, so we need to get the students proficient with computer use and familiar with the system. Hastings Manufacturing donated a [computer] projector which I am now able to use in the classroom. Thornapple Kellogg High School donated a media screen, so we don’t have to project onto the white board anymore. It has really been nice for the students. “We also have a Facebook page, the Barry County GED Program, and the students are using it to find out about testing, class happenings and websites useful for getting their GEDs,” she said. Proposed township road millage may have bumpy ride in village by Julie Makarewicz Staff Writer Thornapple Township officials might have a hard time convincing Middleville village residents they should support a township road millage. Township officials in August approved ballot language for the November election asking voters for 0.75 mills dedicated for roads. If approved, the three-year millage would generate about $175,650 the first year. But village officials say there needs to be something in it for the village. Village residents already pay 2 mills for streets in the village. Adding another township millage, they say, would feel like double dipping. The township does not currently have a road millage. “The question is what’s fair for village residents?” asked Village Manager Rebecca Fleury during the council’s committee-of-thewhole meeting Sept. 4. She said after initial talks with township officials, they all agreed neither entity receives enough funding to properly maintain the roads. Fleury said she would suggest the township be willing to provide the village with a portion of the funds. Based on overall taxable values in the village, she would suggest the township give the village approximately $57,000 of the total millage collected. Township officials said if the millage is approved, they plan to supplement the mill- age with approximately $75,000 from the township general fund. “They use our roads and we use theirs. I do think they should help us out with some of the funds collected,” said village council member Ed Schellinger. “If they would be willing to share, it would definitely make our village residents happier,” said council member Sue Reyff. Village attorney Mark Nettleton said ballot language should contain any information about where funds will be allocated. “Usually these things are floated around for months and months in advance of a decision and putting language on the ballot,” said Nettleton. Village council members said they believe they should have been contacted earlier about a possible road millage. Township officials met in special session Aug. 21 to be able to meet an Aug. 28 deadline for the proposal to be on the ballot. Township Supervisor Don Boysen said the problem is road maintenance and repairs are being put off until it becomes much more costly to do reconstruction work. He and township trustees hope a millage will allow a more proactive approach to maintenance and repairs rather than reacting to problem areas with fixes. Public meetings to discuss the millage proposal are being planned by the township. Fleury said she will continue talking with township officials about allowances for the village. Thank You ... Dear Friends and Neighbors: The primary election is behind us, the November 6th election a few weeks away. I want to thank everyone for your support and faith in my continued ability to serve as your County Drain Commissioner. I take the responsibility seriously. Your issues are my issues: protection of health, safety and welfare of country residents, safeguarding our wetlands, agricultural income, county infrastructure (road and railway drainage), flooding of residential properties/homes, enhanced recreational use of our lakes, etc. Don’t be shy. If you ever have questions or wish to talk, give me a call: my cell number is 616-299-4223 or the office 269-945-1385. Think of your county drain office as a local resource available to all county residents. Again, thank you for allowing me to continue serving as the Barry County Drain Commissioner. Respectfully yours, 1351 N.Broadway (M-43) Hastings 269.945.9105 OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:30 - 5:30 Paid for by the Committee to Elect Russ Yarger Drain Commissioner, P.O. Box 61, Freeport, MI 49325 07609230 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 13, 2012 — Page 3 Sept. 11 relics found in Hastings retail shop Middleville village chicken plan hatched but still needs approvals Back on June 27, Hastings Police received a box from the new owner of the Smokey Mountain Tobacco Shop in Hastings. A small box of dusty and dirty foreign and domesticcurrency, personal IDs and an assortment of business cards, according to a press release issued by Police Chief Jerry Sarver Tuesday, Sept. 11. Some of the personal IDs and business cards read “One World Trade Center” as an address, so he said an investigation was started to determine if any individuals identified Foreign money also was found in the box containing remains possibly from the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. in the contents were deceased from the Sept. 11, 2001, World Trade Center terrorist attacks in New York City. None of the individuals identified from these remains were killed that day, said Sarver, nor were they listed as having survived. Business cards were for employees at Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cantor Fitzgerald, FBI, Deutsche Bank AG, Deutsche Bank Securities, New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs and Chang HWA Bank. Sarver said it appears the money and the IDs were collected by looters following the attacks and sold on the Internet. Sarver assumed the looters kept the intact larger U.S. bills for themselves, selling the lesser-valued foreign bills on the internet. Since the items are looted contraband, he said they will not be released unless and until proper ownership has been determined. Business cards and IDs, presumably from some people who worked in the World Trade Center in 2001, were turned over to Hastings Police after being found in a Hastings store in June. by Julie Makarewicz Staff Writer Residents wanting to raise chickens in their backyards within the village limits of Middleville are one step closer to hatching their flocks, but it still may be at least a couple of months before a final decision is made. Village planning commissioners Tuesday, Sept. 4, worked on a final proposal for an ordinance to allow up to four chickens per site within the village, so long as strict requirements are met. Last month, village planning commissioners reviewed a plan that would restrict the ability to raise chickens to only certain zoning districts and certain lot sizes. It was so restrictive, planners said, very few residents would be able to meet the requirements. The new proposal allows chickens in all zoning districts, as long as their lots can meet setback requirements and other regulations. In order to obtain a permit, residents must submit an accurate site plan showing location of the chicken coop and enclosure, distance from side and rear lot lines and the distance of the coop and enclosure to adjacent dwellings. A portable chicken coop, sometimes called a chicken tractor, must also be shown and identified where it will be located in the yard. Owners must submit information about how many chickens will be kept, how feed will be stored and intended disposal methods of manure. The zoning administrator, or designated person, must make a site inspection before issuing a permit for chickens. Residents may not have more than four chickens, and roosters will not be permitted. A covered chicken coop must be provided, as well as a secure outdoor enclosure. Specific size requirements also are outlined, giving at least 10 square feet of space per chicken in the outside area. The chicken coop and enclosure must be located in the rear yard and at least 20 feet from the side and rear lot lines. It may not be located closer than 60 feet from any dwelling unit on an adjoining property. Chickens must be kept in the coop or enclosure at all times. Outdoor slaughter of any chickens is prohibited. “I like this better because it can apply to more residents,” said planning chair Fran French. A few minor changes still need to be added to the ordinance, and planning commissioners said they want to see it all together before they vote on whether to recommend the ordinance to the village council The village council must approve the ordinance before it takes effect. Ruben and Stacey Campos initially brought the request to the village several months ago. “I’m really glad you have done this. It’s not just for us, but for the whole village,” said Ruben Campos. “I want to say thank you for making this work, and I’m happy to see you give us this opportunity to be self-sufficient and having this choice.” The Camposes also brought a petition with more than 35 signatures supporting the idea of raising chickens in the village. Planning commissioners said they still would like to hear from others to see if there is more interest in this opportunity. Stacey Campos told planning commissioners that even though people are not coming out of the woodwork now asking for the right to raise chickens, she believes more people will jump on board once the ordinance is passed. “This is very promising. I’m looking forward to it,” she said. The planning commission will consider the issue again at its Tuesday, Oct. 2, meeting. Elementary arrival, departure main topic at Maple Valley school board meeting doesn’t,” said Heinze. “There could be noncustodial issues.” Heinze said she sees the need for implementing visitors passes with check-in and check-out procedures. “As long as we all agree we’re here for your kids,” said Heinze. “We cherish our parents. Parents make up our community. As long as we work together, we can accomplish anything.” Lori Farnum said she was glad to hear they were moving off from M-79. She continued and with tears said she did not like the number system. Her children have names, she said, and suggested using last names on tags instead of numbers. “I want to thank the chief,” said Matt Williams. “Semis passing is not working.” Williams was referring to through traffic, including semis that were allowed to proceed, passing vehicles pulled onto the shoulder awaiting openings to enter the West parking lot. “We’re always very involved with our children, helping teachers get the day started,” said Williams. Kristy Lincoln spoke as a parent and member of the parent teacher network, thanking Waffle. “She has been in a very difficult position,” said Lincoln, “but for the first time, the kids are getting curbside service. The principal is out there greeting every child.” Lincoln said, as a mother of four, by kindergarten children should be learning independence. She suggested rather than going into the school every morning, parents could become involved in other ways, such as the parent organization. “Parents don’t need to be in [the building],” said Mike Scott; “get the students there and 77569443 let the teachers teach.” Scott commended Waffle, saying he had spoken to former principal Jason Miller last year about concerns with so many adults in the building and children in the parking lots. Miller’s response, he said, was, “This is how it’s always been.” Continued discussion brought up a plan to have the gymnasium be a centralized pick-up location. Second grade teacher Cindy Baker, whose classroom is in the hallway near the gym, expressed concern about the number of parents and children who will be combined with the second grade classes, causing congestion. Baker also commended Waffle for tackling a tough issue. Melissa Faurot reminded the board of extracurricular activities being held in the gymnasium. Addressing Waffle, she said, “I do think you’re doing a great job. I like parents not flooding the hallways. I realize there are special needs and special days. On behalf of the safety of the junior and senior high students, Susan Morris asked if anyone could enter the front of the school. “Right now, as I understand it, the front doors are open,” said Morris. Morris asked what would stop a disgruntled student from entering through the front and shooting kids in the cafeteria. She said the most newsworthy seem to be the older kids. Steel said the facilities committee would look at options for a more secure entry system for the front of the school. Waffle will poll parents by means of a survey to find the most popular option for pickup procedures and drop-off will be re-routed to Casgrove instead of 79. 77570982 by Shari Carney Staff Writer Recently appointed Fuller Street Elementary Principal Susanne Waffle presented drop-off and pick-up options to the Maple Valley School Board during its regular monthly meeting Monday, Sept. 10. “Last year, parents were parking anywhere. Students were running across the Fuller parking lot, and the hallways were congested,” said Waffle. “Were all the adults safe adults? Classes were not beginning on time, so teachers could not meet their required amounts of instruction time.” Since the appointment to principal in August, Waffle researched area districts, including Lakewood, Hastings, Bellevue, Charlotte and Olivet and discovered each had centralized drop-off and pick-up locations, some inside, some outside. With this information, she presented a centralized drop-off and pick-up point with a requirement that adults entering the building must first register at the office. The plan involved entering the west end parking lot off of M-79. Congested traffic back-ups and parent opposition sent Waffle back to the drawing board, where she conferred with Maple Valley Schools Transportation Director Pat Powers, Superintendent Ronna Steel and Nashville Police Chief Jerry Schray. A consensus was reached to abandon the M-79 route and re-route drop-offs to the front entrance with vehicles entering from Casgrove onto School Street. “We have to come in from the south,” said Schray, who has been directing traffic. “We need to give it a shot. I’ll be down there for a week or two.” Trustee Tony Shaw thanked the chief for going above and beyond. Audience member Jenna Burns addressed the board, saying she fully supported the new policy. “[The] biggest thing here is the safety — the number of parents that were in the school was not a safe environment,” she told the board. Burns is the parent liaison between families and the special education department at Maple Valley Schools and also has two special-needs children. Brad Sheldon told the board he was there to make sure they were open-minded and added he thought it was good to have a moving line of traffic. He raised concerns about a number system being used to identify which students went to which vehicle. “Me and my wife pick our kid up. Who’s to say the number couldn’t be made up and laminated,” said Sheldon. President April Heinze informed the audience it was never the intention to not allow parents in the school but to improve the situation for the safety of the students. “We don’t know who belongs and who �Page 4 — Thursday, September 13, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Sept. 11, 2001: the day that shook the nation Towering fungi A can of bug spray illustrates that these mushrooms are much larger than the average toadstools. Likely a member of the Amanita Muscaria family, these fungi were photographed near spruce trees in a Hastings Township field. We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@jadgraphics.com. Do you know? Football re-alignment Either the three young men on the side are very interested in the placement of the pigskin, football used to have two lines of scrimmage, or this photo was set up. Do you recognize this field, this photo, or the guys pictured? Years after it was taken, Esther Walton wrote on the back, “Mase Thomas’ younger brother” but scratched that out to read “Owen Thomas,” as well as Dick Feldpausch. Can you tell who’s who? What else can you tell us about this photo? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event to reunite the photos with their original clippings or identify photos that may never have been used. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Have you Hastings, MI 49058; email news@jadgraphics.com; or call 269-945-9554. Last week’s photo of three men carrying assessment books drew no response. met? Dorothy Louise (Lathrop) Kelsey 94, has lived her entire life in Barry County. She has written some of her childhood memories, and excerpts from “Grandma Remembers: The Big Old Kitchen Table,” are currently appearing in the Turning Back the Pages feature of the Banner. The daughter of Rhoda Ann Boone and Egbert Hamilton Kelsey, she married Kenneth Kelsey of Coats Grove (now deceased) and has two daughters, four grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Her mother came to the United States from England at age 19, but Dorothy says, “I told people I was related to Daniel Boone.” In addition to raising a family, she was a co-leader, along with Dorothy Barnum, of the Coats Grove 4-H Club. The two Dorothys taught home economics, specializing in sewing and food preservation. She also played the piano and organ at the Barryville Church, and says she loves the “old hymns.” Dorothy and her husband built their own home on a farm where they raised cows, horses and 500 chickens each year for fryers. When asked what she loved most about the farm, she replied, “the freedom of it and living with nature.” Dorothy currently resides at Thornapple Manor. For her sunny disposition and appreciation for life. Dorothy Kelsey is being featured as a Bright Light in Barry County. Favorite subject in school: I loved geography. I couldn’t wait to be a fourth grader and receive the biggest book in the school. It was full of pictures and maps. I loved those maps. How did you meet your husband: I was making $12.50 a week at J.C. Penney’s in Hastings. I bought a car, a Chevy Roadster. He worked at Triangle gas station and took care of my car. One day when the fair was in town, he asked me if I wanted to go. I answered “Well, perhaps.” Dorothy Kelsey Favorite book: When I was a child I loved the book Pollyanna. What did you do for fun on the farm? The neighbors owned harvesting equipment and we owned the planting equipment, so we shared the work. As the men worked, the women would prepare picnics and take to the field and spread the food out on a blanket. Favorite hobby: I learned china painting from Violet Fightner near Nashville. I painted [the pieces] and gave [them] away. Advice for others: Well, I guess I have my own way of keeping my head above water. Don’t dwell on things that bother you; dwell on good things. You can shut your mind off. Superpower you would choose: [The ability to provide] three good meals a day for everyone. Favorite childhood activity: We had a swimming hole, an old millpond. It was over our heads. You learned to swim — or else. Best childhood memory: Black stockings, lipstick, fingernail polish and playing cards were forbidden in my home. One time, a schoolmate painted my nails a bright red. My dad scraped all the polish off with his jack-knife when I got home. He was gentle about it, though. It seems like just a few years ago, but Tuesday we were reminded of a tragedy that shook the nation 11 years ago. On a crisp fall morning, our country suffered a terrorist attack that changed our lives forever. Planes were hijacked and flown into the World Trade Center in New York City, the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., and into the ground in Shanksville, Pa., killing passengers on the planes and people in the buildings. Now, as we plan to travel or attend events in large auditoriums or we frequent large buildings, security has become second nature. Eleven years ago, on that fateful day, our country came to a virtual standstill. The president and his family were hurried off to a safe place and, for the first time in our history, the nation’s airports were closed. The New York Stock Exchange suspended trading, and many large venues across the country were closed or heightened their security due to two suicide attacks on the World Trade Center, a symbol of our nation’s financial and business sector. Then, a third plane hit the Pentagon, the headquarters of the nation’s military command. A fourth plane crashed into a field in rural Pennsylvania after the passengers tried to overpower the hijacked plane, creating a large hole in the ground that has become a memorial site to the heroes who gave their lives on that frightful morning. Speaking from the Oval Office the evening of the attacks, President George H. Bush said, “Terrorist attacks can shake the foundations of our biggest buildings, but they cannot touch the foundation of America.” Within days of the tragedy, reports were released indicating that more than 3,000 people working or visiting the Twin Towers that morning had lost their lives. Nearly 400 firefighters and police officers were missing or dead. At the Pentagon, more than 800 people lost their lives, along with the 266 crew members and passengers who died among the four airliners involved in the attacks. It was a frightful day that forever changed our lives and our attention to security. Government officials questioned how a nation that spends over $25 billion each year on intelligence gathering could be caught so off guard. According to a report released by the 9/11 Commission, the hijackers passed through U.S. border security 68 times, highlighting the need to strengthen border security. Yet, our country continued to concentrate on freedoms and kept welcoming people from around the world to a nation that has cherished its freedoms. Sept. 11, 2001, will forever remind us that that our country was founded on the principles of religious freedom, liberty and diversity as core values that we will never give up, especially to terrorists attempting to attack all that we stand for. The date Sept. 11 will stand as a sober reminder that our nation can be attacked. So, as we celebrate anniversaries in the future, we should never allow the intensity of the attack to wither away to a simple news brief. For thousands of Americans, the anniversary brings back the reality, pain and suffering over the loss of family members and friends. For the rest of us, the stark reality of the attack has changed our lives forever. The most important outcome would be positively answering the question, ‘Did we learn from it?’ As we are reminded of that terrible day, officials at all levels of government should continue to concentrate on strengthening security measures and telling our enemies that we will never again underestimate them. Yet, as Americans, we give our government and its leaders low marks in solving many of the issues plaguing our country. We have become a nation drowning in debt with a deficit that exceeds $16 trillion. Monday, Congressional leaders returned to Washington for less than two weeks to tackle a number of crucial legislative issues on their collective to-do list. With the fall elections just weeks away, most legislators want to head home to get back on the campaign trail while Congress faces a fiscal cliff from a combination of tax increases and $1.2 trillion worth of spending cuts that go into What do you United Way kicks off 77th community campaign Early this morning, supporters and volunteers gathered for the annual communitywide United Way campaign — Give Today, Change Tomorrow. Plus, the annual Day Of Caring highlights the campaign kickoff where volunteers from across the county offer their time and talents to help on a list of projects that will continue through the weekend. Those many decades ago, leaders of the community gathered to discuss forming a United Fund campaign, bringing together what chairman J. M. Maynard called a piecemeal program of assisting so many worthwhile agencies under one campaign. Maynard told an enthusiastic audience that the effort would combine all drives into one big drive for the entire community. Today, all the agencies operate under one umbrella in maintaining a level of services the community can be proud of. Kudos to the local leaders who so many years ago realized the power of one – that continues to produce today a level of support that makes a difference in so many lives. So when you’re asked to fill out your annual appeal form, know that you’re gift will help individuals in need and will strengthen our community for generations. Fred Jacobs, vice president, J-Ad Graphics, Inc. think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website, www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. Last week’s question: With just 27 games left in the Major League Baseball season, the Detroit Tigers trail the first place White Sox by one game. Who’s going to win the Central Division? 69% 31% effect Jan. 1, 2013, unless Congressional leaders act. Today, the House is expected to take up a stop-gap spending bill to keep the government running through March of 2013, putting off any meaningful decisions. These are unpopular issues for Congress, especially in an election year, but failure to act could mean drastic cuts to overall spending along with tax increases to most Americans. Monday, Moody’s credit-rating agency announced a warning to legislators: “Budget negotiations during the 2013 Congressional legislative session will likely determine the direction of the U.S. government’s Aaa rating,” said agency officials. “If those negotiations lead to specific polices that produce a stabilization and then a downward trend in the ratio of federal debt to GDP over the minimum term, then the U.S. will keep its Aaa credit rating. If those negotiations fail, it will probably be knocked down by a notch.” How is it that just 11 years ago, a nation came together in crisis to solve its security issues, sending a message to terrorists around the world that Americans stand together, but today government leaders on both sides maintain one of the lowest approval ratings in history. If only to honor so many people who died Sept. 11, 2001, government leaders from both parties should give up their political battles to find common ground on the biggest issue that now threatens our nation. The debt has complications that could impact our country for generations. Everything else is just fodder to drive a big stake between us. Now more than ever, we need leaders to take our fiscal fitness seriously, by putting off political gamesmanship to focus on the one issue that will determine the strength of our nation for years. We have no choice but to turn our full attention to the national debt, waging a war of sorts where we put all of our efforts and our attention to getting our fiscal house in order. As Sept. 11 threatened the security of our nation 11 years ago, the national debt today threatens our financial security and the programs we enjoy. The stock market, jobs and the financial well being could come tumbling down if we don’t get our arms around the out-of-control debt. It’s time to stop the political rhetoric and finger-pointing for the good of the country. It will take heroes willing to put aside party politics for the good of our country. In other words, it’s not going to be easy. Detroit Tigers Chicago White Sox For this week: Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette is attempting to block plans for an American Indian casino in downtown Lansing which, backers say, would create jobs and improve the city. Do you think Michigan has too many casinos? q q Yes No �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 13, 2012 — Page 5 IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV Commissioner supported as a write-in To the editor: This letter is in reference to our current commissioner of the past six years for Barry County’s 7th District, Jeff VanNortwick. I sincerely support Commissioner Jeff VanNortwick as a write-in candidate for the Nov. 6 election. He has represented us to the best of his ability, with the lack of funds that Barry County has faced over the past several years and into the future. He is for the common person, such as myself. Ruth Johnson Baltimore Township Spare the mute swans To the editor: You can put me with the 22 percent that think the mute swan should not be eradicated. I am sorry, but I think the DNR is wrong about this. They also think that hydraulic fracturing is just fine. That is a very risky process that has the possibility of contaminating our drinking water and the very air we breathe. Does the mute swan put our existence in jeopardy? These are beautiful birds. Is there a guarantee that the trumpeter swan will come back? The DNR is the one that auctioned off all our state land’s mineral rights. Deanna Garrett Middleville Experience needed in filling serious and important jobs To the editor: I am writing this letter in hopes of encouraging everyone to vote in the general election Nov. 6. During the Aug. 7 primary election, our county had an absolutely abysmal turnout at the polls. Unfortunately, we share that statistic with most other counties in the state. Voters residing in townships making up District 7 who did not vote in the primary election gave up the right to select who they wanted to represent them on the county commission. They may have misunderstood that in townships where only one party had candidates, whoever garnered the most votes was going to be elected. Allowing the determination of the next county commissioner this way is election by default. The voters’ only recourse now is the write-in option, should they want to have a choice on who will represent them. There is something very unAmerican about no one running against a candidate running for a position. One thing we should be aware of is that we are losing two veteran commissioners due to the low turnout at the polls. Both Jeff VanNortwick and Bob Houtman possess experience, maturity, honesty and reputations as diligent workers for their constituents. The electorate has an opportunity to exercise the write-in option for Jeff VanNortwick, who has made it known that he will be a write-in candidate on the ballot. A friend tells me that when it comes to flying in a commercial airliner or choosing a doctor, he looks for gray hair on the pilot and the doctor. My friend is inferring that experience is an important attribute when selecting someone for a serious and important job. I suggest that we add to this list, county commissioners and other elected officials. Jeff VanNortwick is extremely well qualified, does his homework, is experienced, listens and is an honest man. I endorse Jeff, and urge voters of District 7 to give him their vote for county commissioner. Vote for experience in these trying times. William F. Norris, Dowling State News Roundup New regulations proposed for Blue Cross Gov. Rick Snyder Tuesday proposed sweeping changes to how Michigan’s largest health insurance provider is regulated, calling for it to become a nonprofit mutual insurance company that is regulated under the Michigan Insurance Code like all other health insurers in the state. The governor’s plan requires Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan to contribute about $1.5 billion over 18 years to a new nonprofit entity whose purpose is to fund initiatives that foster healthier lifestyles, provide better access to health care and improve public health. This is an unprecedented investment in the health and wellness of Michigan families, according to a press release issued by the governor. “This is an exciting opportunity to improve the health of Michiganders and create a modernized, efficient health care marketplace that spurs innovation and streamlines outdated regulations,” Snyder said. “It’s especially important that we have a system that promotes wellness for our children and seniors. This proposal will ensure that quality health care remains affordable and accessible for everyone.” Snyder’s plan, which requires approval by the legislature and the Blue Cross board of directors, follows his call in last year’s special message to the legislature on health and wellness to reinvent health care in Michigan so it can be a positive economic driver of the state’s ongoing recovery. Specifically, the governor’s plan will: • Create a nonprofit entity to improve the health of all Michigan residents. The nonprofit will be run by an independent board of directors. It will be funded with about $1.5 billion in contributions from Blue Cross made over the next 18 years. • Blue Cross will transition to a nonprofit mutual insurance company that will pay an estimated $100 million a year in additional tax revenue to the state and local governments. • Protect senior citizens by freezing “Medigap” coverage rates for four years. • Streamline the regulatory environment by regulating Blue Cross under the state insurance code, as is the case with all other health insurance companies. • Preserve Blue Cross’ nonprofit status and mission while maintaining its tremendous contribution to Michigan’s economy and investments in the state. • Eliminate the “tax” currently required on Blue Cross’ small-business and individual customers to subsidize other lines of insurance coverage. That tax costs small businesses and individual Blue Cross members more than $200 million a year. • Ensure that Blue Cross continues as a carrier of last resort until Jan. 1, 2014, at which time new federal laws will require all insurers to offer coverage to anyone regardless of health status. With 4.4 million Michigan subscribers, Blue Cross Blue Shield is the state’s largest health insurance provider. Unlike other insurance companies, which are regulated under the state Insurance Code, Blue Cross is regulated by Public Act 350 of 1980. That law was created to designate Blue Cross as the health insurance “carrier of last resort” and ensure that everyone has access to health insurance regardless of health status. Snyder said recent reforms have rendered PA 350 obsolete and require Michigan to have a uniform set of regulations for all insurers. Michigan Wildlife Conservancy celebrating 30 years The Michigan Wildlife Conservancy will mark its 30th anniversary this month, and the leadership of the nonprofit organization has seen numerous changes over those three decades. “Some wildlife species have made significant comebacks since our organization began in 1982,” said Conservancy President Bill Taylor of Duck Lake in Calhoun County. “Eagles, ospreys, wild turkeys, moose, the endangered Kirtland’s warbler, lake sturgeon, and a host of predators ranging from wolves to pine martens have all increased in numbers and expanded their ranges.” The conservancy, based in Bath, was formed to mobilize private sector resources for fish and wildlife restoration, and has completed hundreds of projects throughout Michigan. “Despite our successes, the need for private sector involvement in resource management is greater today than in 1982 when the Conservancy was founded,” noted Taylor. “Citizens need to be better informed about the nature of wild and the legal/political systems that dominate resource management. The conservancy will continue to help citizens help wildlife.” The conservancy will host a series of events celebrating its 30 years Saturday, Sept. 22. The Fall Harvest Social will be from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Bengel Wildlife Center northeast of Lansing. Bird watching, guided walks, storytelling sessions, presentations, and children’s activities with wildlife themes will be mostly free to the public, rain or shine. For more information, call 517-641-7677 or visit www.miwildlife.org. Olivet College lacrosse coach resigns; admits to falsifications Olivet College Tuesday announced the resignation of head men’s lacrosse coach Michael J. O’Neill. In submitting his resignation, O’Neill acknowledged inconsistencies in his verbal and documented credentials. Subsequent review revealed that O’Neill embellished his prior accomplishments, in some cases with the accomplishments of others. According to a statement released by Olivet College President Steven M. Corey, Ph.D., “This is a tragic and disappointing situation for all parties involved. Coach O’Neill has done a good job since his arrival in January, bringing student-athletes to Olivet College from around Michigan and the world. Unfortunately, misrepresentation of past accomplishments brings into question the integrity of the program and the college.” Olivet College is entering its inaugural season in men’s lacrosse. With his background and networks as the Dutch National Team coach, O’Neill attracted a strong international and Michigan-based squad to Olivet College with hopes of being competitive in their first season in the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association. “Our attention is now fully focused on supporting our student-athletes and helping them prepare for a successful experience and upcoming season,” stated Athletic Director Heather Bateman. “This certainly sets us back one step, but we have a great group of student-athletes and I’m confident we’ll all move forward together.” The assistant coaches are assuming interim responsibility for the program and the search for a new head coach is anticipated to begin immediately. Detroit, state partner to rejuvenate Belle Isle A tentative landmark agreement between the City of Detroit and the State of Michigan is designed to preserve, protect and enhance Belle Isle as a state park. Gov. Rick Snyder and Detroit Mayor Dave Bing Wednesday announced that Detroit will maintain ownership under the agreement with the state of Michigan and Department of Natural Resources leasing the land under contract. “Michiganders have enjoyed Belle Isle for more than a century,” Gov. Snyder said. “From the conservatory and museum to sporting events and family picnics, this historic landmark has brought fond memories to all who have visited.. Establishing Belle Isle as a state park provides needed financial relief to Detroit without it relinquishing ownership, brings long overdue restoration and enhancements to the park, and guarantees a beautiful place for Michigan residents to enjoy for decades to come.” Snyder said the proposed agreement will help generate economic development and neighborhood revitalization, which are core to Detroit’s and Michigan’s reinvention. “This city-state collaboration will return Belle Isle to its original beauty through major improvements and regular maintenance overseen by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources,” said Bing. “It presents a win-win situation for the City and the entire State, by preserving a historic destination in the City of Detroit.” The lease creates a cooperative agreement between the city of Detroit and the state of Michigan to manage Belle Isle for the benefit of the public. The park’s operations, maintenance and improvements will be managed by the DNR and funded through the Michigan State Parks Endowment Fund and through other sources. Additionally, the state department of transportation will assume responsibility for roads and bridges on Belle Isle. No rent will be paid for the lease. Operation, maintenance and improvement projects will be considered compensation. An 11-member advisory council will advise the parties on implementation of improvements and master planning for the park. The city and the state will work cooperatively with the Belle Isle Conservancy to develop a master plan to improve the park. The proposed lease agreement now goes to the Detroit City Council for its review and consideration. SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN If 2013 is your lucky year to retire, prepare now by Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Do you plan to begin receiving Social Security retirement benefits early in 2013? If so, now is the time to prepare. We recommend you apply up to four months before you want your retirement benefits to begin. These days, you no longer need to travel to an office or wait in line to apply for benefits. You can do it from your home or office computer at The Social Security website, www.socialsecurity.gov. You can complete your application for retirement benefits in as little as 15 minutes. In most cases, after you submit your online application electronically, that’s all you have to do. There are no forms to sign or additional paperwork to complete. In rare cases where we need additional information, a representative will contact you. Not ready to retire yet? Perhaps you want to plan ahead and begin considering your options regarding when to retire. In that case, you’ll want to visit Social Security’s website to use our convenient and informative retirement planner at www.socialsecurity.gov/retire2. Here you can find out just how close you are to meeting your financial goals and then “bookmark” the website to apply for retirement benefits whenever you are ready. We encourage people at any stage in their working careers to use the retirement estimator for an instant, personalized estimate of future retirement benefits. Find it at www.socialsecurity.gov/estimator. Here’s to a lucky 2013. If you’re planning to retire and begin receiving Social Security benefits in January, start the year off right by applying online now for Social Security benefits. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. The Hastings Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Bonnie Mattson • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 �Page 6 — Thursday, September 13, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Area Obituaries “Dodie” Monroe I. Rosenberg Worship Together… ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Rev. Ryan Wieland. Sundays - 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Service; Sunday School and Nursery available during both services (Summer Schedule - Adult Sunday School: 9 a.m., Worship & Children’s Programs 10 a.m.) Youth Group, Covenant Prayer, Choir, Chimes, Praise Band, Quilting Group, Community Breakfasts and more! Call the church office at (269) 721-8077 (M/W/F 9 a.m.-12 p.m.), e-mail office@mei.net or visit www.countrychapelumc.org <http://www.countrychapelumc.org/> for more information SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 . CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 8:45 a.m. Traditional Worship; 10 a.m. Refreshments; 10:45 a.m. Contemporary Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Youth Pastor Eric Gillespie. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. for children and youth, and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Junior and Senior High Youth Group 6:00 p.m. , and several adult small group opportunities. Wednesday Mid-Week Pioneers at 6:30 p.m.: Pioneer Club, 4 years through 5th grade. Adults: Marriage Enrichment class, Women’s Prayer Group and a Men’s Bible Study. Thursday: Senior Adult (50+) Bible Study at 10 a.m. and lunch at Wendy’s, 11:30 a.m. Third Thursday Brunch at 9:30 a.m. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Sunday, September 9 - Winter Hours Begin. Worship Service 8 and 10:45 a.m. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. September 9 - Noisy Offering for Love, Inc.; Men’s Alcoholics Anonymous 7 p.m. September 10 Adventurers Bible Study 7 p.m.; Spiritual AA 7:30 p.m. September 11 -Youth Committee 6 p.m.; Brothers of Grace 7 p.m. September 12 - Wordwatchers Bible Study 10 a.m. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 9452645, fax 269-945-2698. Pastor Amy Luckey. http://www.discover-grace.org Fiberglass Products 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 Victoria J. Moore Victoria J. Moore will be laid in her final resting place on Saturday, September 15, 2012 at 4 p.m. at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Middleville. All family and friends that wish to attend are welcome. Charlton Park hosting pow wow Saturday and Sunday The public is invited to attend the Walk-in-the-Spirit Pow Wow this weekend. 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings HASTINGS, MI – “Dodie” Monroe I. Rosenberg, of Hastings, passed away September 11, 2012. Dodie was born January 28, 1938 in Middleville, the son of the late Claude and Mary (Boley) Rosenberg. A veteran, Dodie proudly served his country in the United States Navy. Dodie worked as a semi driver for Amway Corporation for 27 years and worked with his sons on their elephant ear wagon, traveling all over the state of Michigan to area fairs. Dodie enjoyed visiting with all of his friends throughout the state in his travels, and he was known for his generosity to others and could fix anything. Dodie is survived by his wife of 52 years, Rosemary Rosenberg; his children, Julie (Doug) Ybema, Wes (Lisa) Rosenberg, Steve (Sherri) Rosenberg and Jack (Amy) Rosenberg; grandchildren, Ben (Jackie), Nicole, Cody, Luke, Danielle, Teddy, Haley, Cody Maxlow, Noah, Mallorie and Olivia; sisters, Nancy Anders, Jackie (Gary) Gerard and Susan Parsley; brothers, Mike (Linda) Rosenberg and Terry (Janet) Rosenberg. Dodie’s family will receive friends Thursday, September 13, 6-8 p.m., at Thornapple Valley Church of Hastings. A funeral service will be conducted Friday, September 14, 2012 at 11 a.m. at Thornapple Valley Church of Hastings. Cathy Peters will officiate. Memorial contributions to Barry County Gas and Steam Engine Club will be appreciated. Please visit www.beelergoresfuneral.com to view Dodie’s online guest book or to leave a condolence message for the family. WAYLAND, MI – Lyman D. Kimmey, age 83, passed away Monday, September 10, 2012. Lyman was born April 1, 1929 in Grand Rapids, the son of Donald and Zada (Lewis) Kimmey. He was raised in the Bowens Mill/Middleville area and graduated from Thornapple-Kellogg High School in 1947, where he played football, basketball and baseball. Lyman was an avid outdoorsman and sports fan. He especially enjoyed bowling, golf, fishing and hunting and spent many deer seasons at his cabin in Brethren. Lyman worked many years at Thornapple Kellogg Schools in the maintenance department as a groundskeeper. He loved TK football and took much pride in maintaining and preparing the football field. The Middleville “M” he designed still marks the stadium with that pride. Lyman also enjoyed sharing stories – about his youth, sports history and especially about his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Lyman married Norma Allen on January 25, 1950, who survives. He is also survived by three daughters, Nyla (Dean) Rounds, Brenda (Evan) Seifert and Katy (Dan) Price and a foster son, Albert Harris; eight grandchildren, Tim (Lauren) Rounds, Nate (Kristen) Rounds, Chris (Linnea) Rounds, Kathlyn Rounds, Jennifer Seifert, Adam (Carrie) Seifert, Andy (Denise) Price and Mark (Pauline) Price and eight great-grandchildren. Lyman will also be missed by his beagle, Max. Lyman’s family will receive friends Friday, September 14, 5-8 p.m. and Saturday, September 15, 10-11 a.m. at Beeler-Gores Funeral Home. A memorial service will be conducted Saturday, September 15, 2012, 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Pastor Jeri Otto will officiate. Memorial contributions to Paws With A Cause or Barry County Commission on Aging will be appreciated. Please visit www.beeler-goresfuneral.com to view Lyman’s online guest book or to leave a condolence message for the family. FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot.com. Friday - 9 a.m. Golfer’s Group Meets; 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday - 4 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Lauer Family Funeral Homes Lyman D. Kimmey Maxine Marie Chamberlin 77570891 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 The public is invited to experience Native American culture through a traditional pow wow, including authentic dancing and drumming, arts and crafts and native foods Saturday, Sept. 15 and Sunday, Sept. 16. The Walk-in-the-Spirit Pow Wow is an opportunity for native people to gather in a traditional social setting. As a teaching pow wow, it is conducted in the most correct way known for being rooted in the Three Fires territory, said Charlton Park director Dan Patton. The sacred fire burns for four days with sunrise pipe ceremonies and talking circles. Dancing, drumming and singing can be seen and heard while traders trade handmade crafts and supplies. The pow wow grounds are the Anishnabe homecoming grounds, now known as Historic Charlton Park. When the federal government allowed Indians to have pow wows again, the first one in Lower Michigan was at Charlton Park. The general public is invited to join after gates open at 10 a.m. each day. Grand entries are scheduled for 1 p.m. Saturday and noon Sunday. Flags will be retired at sundown Saturday, followed by open dancing until dark. Sunday, following the dances, gifts will be presented to the participants. Authentic food vendors will be selling throughout the event so visitors can enjoy fry bread and other special treats. Native artisans will be offering beadwork, baskets, leather goods, ceramics, carvings, blankets, statuary and jewelry. Members of the intertribal public are invited to participate in dancing. Participants will be available before and after dancing for photos, discussion and to answer questions. Admission to the Pow Wow is $5 for adults, $3 for children ages 5 to 12. Spectators should bring their own lawn chairs to view the event. For more information, call 269-945-3775 or visit the website, www.charltonpark.org. Historic Charlton Park is at 2545 S. Charlton Park Road, just north of M-79 between Hastings and Nashville. DELTON, MI Maxine Marie Chamberlin, age 78, of Delton, passed away peacefully on September 5, 2012, after a nearly three year battle with cancer. Maxine was surrounded by her loving family, who have felt honored to be able to care for her during this battle. She leaves behind her husband of 60 years, Gordon; sons and daughters-in-law, Stephen (Sonia) of Mattawan, David (Cindy) of Alto and Michael (Wendy) of Delton. She is also survived by grandchildren, Evan (Erica), Drew, Jason, Ashley (Ryan), Adam (Brooke), Kristin (Shane) and Chase. Maxine adored her great grandchildren, Ethan, Peyton, Connor and Addison. She is also survived by brothers-in-law Robert (Mona) of Delton, Harry (Gale) of Fort Smith, AR, special friend Iva (Bob) Osborne and many treasured nephews, nieces and friends. Maxine was preceded in death by her father, Ernest Smith; mother, Margerete; brothers, Donald and Russell. Maxine was born October 10, 1933 in Delton, to Ernest and Margerete Smith. She graduated from Delton Kellogg High School in 1951. She worked at Delton Kellogg High School for 21 years, serving as high school secretary and then in food service. Maxine began working at Kalamazoo County Cooperative Extension as 4-H secretary in November 1978. She retired in January 1991. Maxine lived in Delton her entire life and was a member of Faith United Methodist Church of Delton. She was a Den Mother for all three of her boys, Sunday school and Bible school teacher for many years, treasurer of the church for nine years, 4-H leader, and Junior High Church Youth leader. She also volunteered for 4-H programs in Youth Day Camps and volunteered at church in ways too numerous to count. Close to Maxine’s heart was her volunteer work for Delton Friends which she helped with for many years until her health interfered. Maxine liked working on the computer, reading and bird watching. She loved attending all of her grandchildren’s activities and rarely missed anything they participated in. The time she spent with her great-grandchildren was precious to Maxine. She will always be remembered for her generous gift of her time and love to her family and friends. Both Maxine and Gordon have both felt blessed to have been able to spend over 20 years (since their retirements) traveling and spending time together with family and friends. In lieu of flowers, contributions to the creation and maintenance of a Memorial Garden at Faith United Methodist Church of Delton or Delton Friends would be appreciated. Maxine's family will receive friends Sunday, September 9, 3 to 6 p.m. at the Williams-Gores Funeral Home, Delton. A memorial service was conducted at Faith United Methodist Church, Delton, Monday, September 10, 2012, Pastor Brian Bunch officiating. Please visit www.williamsgoresfuneral. com to view Maxine’s online guest book or to leave a condolence message for the family. GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 13, 2012 — Page 7 BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY Marriage Licenses by Gerald Stein Call (269) 372-9299 or visit http://www.kzoobridge.com/ “We will be starting a new bridge game targeted toward helping social bridge players who want to learn about duplicate bridge and new duplicate bridge players get off on the right foot. The first session will be on Friday night, September 28, 2012 starting at 6:30 PM. This is a FREE SESSION and plan to come at 6:00 PM for pizza and salad. Many times social bridge players and new duplicate bridge players are somewhat overwhelmed in the beginning. This new game is intended to relieve any stress and will be a great learning experience. There will be a brief pre-game lecture that will focus on the basics of bidding, defense, declarer play, etiquette and a host of other related topics. Each session will consist of twelve hands. To enhance the learning experience most of the hands will relate to the material covered in the lecture. We ask that you pre-register for the first session as it will help us plan the food requirements for the evening. If you would like to sign up for this free bridge game that includes dinner, please contact us at your earliest convenience. We hope to have a really good turnout, so we suggest making your reservations early.” Next week, in this column, we will look at the places in Barry County, Calhoun County, Kalamazoo County and Kent County where bridge games are available and ready for bridge players. For now, consider the bridge classes in our area or in nearby communities. Begin the school year with a desire to learn some new ideas about your favorite game. Sign up for classes or take a drive with some friends to the free pizza and salad night offered by the Kalamazoo Bridge Center. You will be opening a wonderful window in your bridge learning. Have fun in Bridge Class! ***** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) LaMar Fisher celebrates 90th birthday The children of LaMar Dale Fisher invite all of his family and friends to join him in celebrating his 90th birthday on Friday, September 14, 2012 from 4:30 to 6:30 at Tujax in Delton. Cards are welcome. No gifts please. Newborn Babies Conklins to celebrate 60th wedding anniversary On September 7, 1952 Laurence (Larry) Conklin and Dorothy Adams were wed at the Wesleyan Church in Hastings. Larry and Dorothy have lived most of their lives in Barry County. They have two daughters, LouAnn (Colin) Cruttenden, and Connie (Martin) Haywood, four grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. The family will celebrate with a special dinner, and a surprise weekend trip. Congratulations! O’Donnells to observe golden wedding anniversary Mike and Beverly (Bowne) O’Donnell will have their 50th wedding anniversary September 15, 2012. They have lived at their W. Quimby Rd. home for 48 years. They have two sons, Perry O’Donnell and Rus (Tonya) O’Donnell; one granddaughter, Justine O’Donnell and two step-grandchildren, Tiphany and Nathan Taylor. Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads Immaculate Condo on the Water NOLAN HEATH September 16th, 1988 ~ August 10th, 2008 313 E. North If anyone were to ever ask what we miss most about you Nolan, the answer would be, “everything”. Everything, every day, all the time. I wish I could hold you again because I would never let you go. God speed little man, sweet dreams. Mom, Dad, Newell, Keith, the Heath and Gillons Families & Rusty, too ❤ Open House • Sunday, September 16 • 1 - 3 p.m. Contact 269.953.0153 for more info. TWO BROTHERS AND A TENT For All Your Tent Rental Needs Lake Odessa by Elaine Garlock Bowne Center United Methodist Church will host a beef and pork supper on Saturday, Sept. 15, serving from 5 to 7 p.m. The Sebewa Center United Methodist Church, a bit closer, is having a Saturday evening meal also Sept. 15, serving from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Tonight, the Lake Odessa Area Historical Society is starting its 45th year with a shared meal at the Freight House. Meeting time is 6:30 p.m. come with a dish of food to share and be prepared for a unique evening of historical pleasure. There will be reports on Depot Day and more. The end of this month will bring an auto show combined with the initial gathering of alumni from the combined Lakewood Schools. The Tri-River Museum group will meet In Loving Memory of • 2 bedrooms/2 baths • All appliances included • Main floor laundry • All Season Sunroom • Finished lower level • Immediate possession at close 07609295 Lucienne Elizabeth, born at Pennock Hospital on Aug. 29, 2012 at 7:49 p.m. to Jamie Cole and Jacob Cole of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 11.7 oz. and 21 3/4 inches long. ***** Arend Jamison, born at Pennock Hospital on Aug. 30, 2012 at 8:27 p.m. to John and Tasha Smith of the Nashville/Hastings area. Weighing 8 lbs. 8 ozs. and 20 1/2 inches long. ***** Gage David, born at Pennock Hospital on Aug. 30, 2012 at 10:29 p.m. to Jason and Barbara Johncock of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. and 19 inches long. ***** Brooklyn Rose, born at Pennock Hospital on Sept. 3, 2012 at 1:49 p.m. to Faith Allen and Derrick McElhaney of Lake Odessa. Weighing 6 lbs. 2 ozs. and 18 inches long. Tables and chairs available. Call: Dan McKinney 269-838-7057 or Tom McKinney 269-838-3842 WANTED Native Americans FULL BLOOD – MIXED BLOOD ONE DROP OF BLOOD Tuesday, Sept. 18, in Lowell. For years, local quilters made an annual pilgrimage to Paducah, Ky., to attend the annual American Quilting Society exhibits. This year, the big national event was held in Grand Rapids. Quilt makers came from across the country to see the AQS exhibit in Grand Rapids. Now there are talks of extending the years of exhibits in Grand Rapids beyond 2013 and 2014 which were already arranged. Jane Shoemaker of Lake Odessa celebrated her 80th birthday in style by walking the Mackinac Bridge along with many of her family members. Walking the five-mile bridge would be one matter, but being so far above the water with only a metal mesh beneath takes courage. 77566915 We are forming an intertribal band of Native Americans (Thornapple River Intertribal Indigenous People for Cultural Preservation) in support of the “Walk in the Spirit” Pow-Wow at Historic Charlton Park, near Hastings. All nations welcome to join. We are a teaching Pow-Wow, so come learn your ancestors’ ways and traditions. Fun for all ages – Love and joy abound 77570998 A New Beginner Bridge Game Starts Friday, Sept. 28th at the Kalamazoo Bridge Center, 648 Maple Hill Drive in Kalamazoo: From Alan and Brenda Bau, Directors. Mark Allen Massie II, Hastings and Lindsey Sue Wiser, Hastings. David Lee Clark, Plainwell and Tracie Lynn Holden, Plainwell. Nicholas Thomas Klumpp, Shelbyville and Molly Margaret Millar, Shelbyville. Michael John Shinaver, Hastings and Stacy Lynn Caldwell, Hastings. Evan Craig Wisner, Hastings and Alyssa Marie Conti, Belton, Tex. Marc Harry Chilton, Dowling and Juilene Ann Lawyer, Dowling. Brent Richard Hartwell, Nashville and Cassie Marie Hirneiss, Nashville. Robert Leonard Gray, Romeoville, Ill. and Lindsey Lyn Fox, Romeoville, Ill. 77570994 by Gerald Stein Now that school has started, and our students are back in the classrooms, isn’t it time for Barry County bridge players to think about taking bridge classes this fall? Today’s column will list some of the bridge classes that will be offered either locally or nearby. Next week we will visit some local places for bridge players to play bridge. For now, let’s see what class offerings are available for beginners, advanced beginners, intermediates, or anyone who just wants to brush up or learn some new bridge tricks in the fascinating world of bridge. For starters, a beginning bridge class for truly the beginner in bridge will be offered at our own Fehsenfeld Center, Kellogg Community College, Hastings campus, beginning on Wednesdays in October and November: October 3 to November 28 from 10-12 noon. Entitled Bidding in the 21st Century, this class centers on the basics of bridge playing: counting, bidding, playing, and generally learning the necessary parts of bridge. In nine weeks, players will learn to bid using the latest bidding practices as taught and encouraged by the American Contract Bridge League. A minimum of eight students must register for the class through KCC’s Institute for Learning in Retirement. Go to the KCC website www.kellogg.edu/lifelong/ilr/pdf/Newsletter.pdf and register online or call their office number: 269-965-4134 Ext. 2. If the daytime hours do not fit your schedule for this class, the same class Bidding in the 21st Century will be offered in Battle Creek at the Kellogg Community College Technology Center on Hill Brady Road on Wednesday nights beginning October 3 from 6-8 PM for nine weeks. This class is perfect for beginners in bridge but also serves as a refresher class for those who want to see what new ideas in bridge bidding have developed since they first learned to play. Again go to the KCC website www.kellogg.edu/lifelong/ilr/pdf/Newsletter.pdf and register online or call their office number: 269-965-4134 Ext. 2. The text is included in the tuition cost for both classes. A bonus chapter in the beginning class is the final chapter, and all students will know and be able to use the Stayman Convention by the end of the nine weeks. A third class, geared more for the advanced beginner, the intermediate player, and anyone who wants to improve the defense part of their bridge game, will be offered on Monday mornings, beginning October 1-November 26 from 10-12 noon. This class entitled Defense in the 21st Century will also be offered through the Institute for Learning in Retirement program through Kellogg Community College at their Technology Center on Hill Brady Road. The text is included in this class as well, and the class runs for nine weeks just like the beginning classes. This class will delve into opening leads against no trump contracts and trump contracts, developing defensive tricks, making a defensive plan, and a bonus chapter on learning a popular and useful convention: the negative double. Again go to the KCC website www.kellogg.edu/lifelong/ilr/pdf/Newsletter.pdf and register online or call their office number: 269-965-4134 Ext. 2. A fourth class that will be offered in Kalamazoo at the Kalamazoo Bridge Center is the Play of the Hand in the 21st Century. This class follows the Bidding in the 21st Century class and is the second class in the ACBL series. For more information on this class, which begins on Thursday, September 20, 2012, call 612-508-1360. This class also runs for nine weeks and includes the text. Learn how to make a plan, take all the tricks you need, and impress the in-laws with your play of the hand. Finally, an exciting offering for those social bridge players who want to know a bit more about duplicate bridge playing and where to go for more instruction, here is a bit of news from Alan and Brenda Bau, Directors at the Kalamazoo Bridge Center in Kalamazoo, just off of US 131. Call (269) 948-0958 ® The See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. 7775 Saddlebag Lake Road, M-66 Lake Odessa, MI 48849 616-374-1200 • www.m66tire.com 77570949 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits M66 Tire 77564841 J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS �Page 8 — Thursday, September 13, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Grandma Remembers: The Big Old Kitchen Table, part II This is the second part of a series of memories written by Dorothy (Lathrop) Kelsey of her childhood years in Barryville. Born in 1917, the youngest child of Egbert H. Lathrop and Rhoda Boone, Dorothy now resides at Thornapple Manor. She wrote “Grandma Remembers: The Big Old Kitchen Table” in 2001. (Dorothy is featured as this week’s Bright Light on page 4.) ***** On our farm, we had cows, three horses, chickens, sheep and hogs. We had an orchard, blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, an asparagus patch and always a big garden. There was always good food and of course plenty to do. One year, we raised a big patch of cucumbers. I never got so tired of picking pickles in all my life. We picked every other day and took them by the bushels to Nashville to the pickle factory. That year, the money from the cukes bought us three kids musical instruments. Hubert picked the trumpet, which he learned to play, and played in the school band and orchestra. Ferris picked the violin, which was a poor choice for him, since he had no ear for music. These instruments came from a Sears & Roebuck catalog. I picked a piano, and we got a nice secondhand one from ‘Dad Angel.” He was the YMCA director at that time. That summer, we would pick the pickles in early morning or evening when it was cooler, and it was the same summer the neighborhood got the idea of going over to Middle Lake in the evenings to go swimming. Someone would come along with tractor or car and wagon or trailer with all the kids in the neighborhood – the Fosters, Higdons, Potters, Van Dorens and more – and when you heard them coming, you grabbed your suit and hopped on. Middle Lake was over in the Striker district, it’s a private lake now but it was nice after a hot day. We didn’t go down to Thornapple since there were so many broken bottle pieces that you got your feet cut every time you went swimming there. When I was younger, I remember the high slide that was at Thornapple Lake. It was fun and scary. Thornapple Lake was quite a nice resort at one time. When I was small, I remember the train going through and sometimes it stopped at the hotel there. A dance hall was down by the lake, and we were never allowed to go there, but later years it was turned into a skating rink and was quite a popular place. The hotel ran down, finally burned, and now there is no picnic ground or anything. It was a nice gathering place picnics, ball games, etc. In summers, Ferris and I would load up our little wagon with produce of any kind and sell it to the cottages around Thornapple Lake. Our raspberries and blackberries always sold good. On holidays, of course, no mail was delivered, so that was the day Ferris and I could go down to Morgan and get our mail. The incentive was always the one or two pennies we had to spend at the store (which was the post office). You know it took a great amount of time to make that important decision. I can still see the many choices through the glass counter. In our apple orchard, we had “maiden blush,” which were the first to ripen, then the “golden sweet,” and the red “snow” apple, several other kinds and the “Wagners” and “spies.” Grandfather must have planted them. I am thankful for the thoughtfulness of our forefathers for a good many blessings we have had and are still enjoying. Although we lived in what they called the “depression,” we as kids did not know any different. We had meat: beef, pork and chicken; milk; eggs and I remember the folks taking wheat to the mill and exchanging it for flour. We bought sugar, but raised most everything else. It was a treat to have a banana, and we didn’t need anything else. We canned and preserved so we were well off – food wise. We didn’t wear expensive clothes and only had one pair of shoes a year, but everybody else was in the same “boat.” We did have city cousins who would visit us many times, and I remember so well the phrase “Oh, Rhoda do you have any extra” butter – cream – corn or whatever was in season. They never gave it a thought that this was where our scarce money came from. Selling every extra from what we needed. Mother always gave to them, and I think maybe that’s why Papa called them the “Kissing Kousins” because kissing got them lots to eat. The cousins thought even the chickens were free to us, as if they just came to roost at our place. As children on the farm, I can never remember being bored and not having something to do. We always had chores, and it seems if we were ever idle and not doing something even if it were playing, Mother found a chore for us to do – fill the wood box, bring in some fresh water, chop corn for the chickens and a million other little busy things to do. For fun, we had a wheel and a cross stick to guide that wheel for miles. Ferris and I were always in a contest whatever we were doing. Of course, he always won. We caught fireflies in glass cans. We always had the swimming hole back of Higdons where the creek had been dammed up for the mill that was no longer there. The water in one place was deep – over my head as a small child, and you learned to swim real quick because you were pushed in or “dunked” and you learned to survive. Nobody ever drowned over there, but it’s just a miracle someone did not. We were free to go to the neighbors any time we asked (after our chores were done), lots of time in evenings. We didn’t have to worry about being in danger, even after dark, we felt safe. Lots of times there would be eight to 10 kids gather and we played in or at the creek. Sometimes, we played in the cemetery, hide-and-go-seek. There was one huge monument, smooth and slippery as satin that we tried to climb up on top. It was probably six feet high and really firm and solid, so no harm was done, but the bigger kids could stand on top and only when you were big and strong enough could you master that tombstone. It was like a graduation day when you finally accomplished that bit of mastery. We were never destructive, never moved anything or broke one thing, it was just that we thought it City of Hastings POSITION AVAILABLE: UTILITY SUPERINTENDENT The Utility Superintendent oversees the operation and maintenance of the City’s wastewater treatment plant and sewage collection system and the water filtration treatment plant and water distribution system. Michigan Department of Environmental Quality license certification as a Class B wastewater operator, a Class D-2 license certification in limited treatment, and a Class S-2 license certification in water distribution is required. Five years managerial experience is preferred. Excellent computer skills, the ability to communicate verbally and in writing, and commitment to a team approach are required. Salary range $43,346 to $57,794. Complete job description available on request from City of Hastings, 201 E. State St., Hastings, Michigan 49058, 269.945.2468. To apply submit letter of interest and resume by 4:00 PM, October 12, 2012. Tim Girrbach Director of Public Services was scary to play hide-and-seek in a spooky place. Another great fun was sliding down the Barryville Hill on the bobsled. It was neighborhood owned and it held lots of kids. Herber Foster (a dad) and Arthur Lathrop, the grownups, saw to it that each hand and foot were intertwined in safely so no one got hurt. Another man would stand at the bottom of the hill with a lantern and signal when no cars were coming. Of course, there were not many cars out and especially when it was snowy and slippery. Oh, how much fun it was. We thought we were going 60 miles an hour and laughing all the way. One of the bigger boys did the steering, and it was hard, too, because of the load and the curve at the bottom. We would go and go a long ways and then walk back up for another ride. Hubert was one of the fellows who steered, along with a Higdon or a Fassett. There would probably be at least 20 kids every slippery night. We took turns, since it could not hold us all. There were wonderful memories but I meant to tell you about our old big square table. It had at least six extra leaves and it stretched out at threshing time to seat at least 14 people. But it was our main stay, I would say, because we did everything at that big old square table. You realize we had no electricity or running water, our refrigeration was the well tank. We always had cold water pumped steadily by the old windmill. It was always cold because a pipe from it went underground to the big horse tank in the barn. That tank at the barn was big enough to swim in, but we never did since mice and even cats would fall in it and drown. We kept butter, cream and milk in glass cans and lowered them in the water at the small tank at the house, and they kept real cold. We always had nice cold milk to drink, and we drank a lot. I still like cold milk. If there wasn’t enough wind to make the windmill go Papa had a gas engine to pump the water. He was always quite mechanical and liked to fix things. But that old square table holds lots of fond memories and some tales that probably will never be told. It seems everything that was ever done or decided was on or at that old table. Dishes were washed and dried in pans on the table. After school, all the kerosene lamps were filled, wicks trimmed and glass chimneys were washed and shined. Papa was the only one to tend to the Aladdin lamp, and then when we got the gasoline lamp, no one touched it – only Papa since the mantels were so delicate. When we bought that lamp we thought it was so bright, my, oh my. All the studying was done at either the table or the fold-down desk in the kitchen corner. It was shelves with a solid front that folded down to desk level, and that’s where the ink well was kept, so if we had any papers to write that needed to be in ink, that’s where we sat. Papa’s pocketbook laid on the top shelf. There was only one pocket book in those days, and no one took any money out only as it was truly needed. That’s the advantage of not having very much monetary luxury. I remember when I was going to high school and I needed to buy some more notebook paper, I would just go to the shelf and say “I’m taking a nickel for paper” and that was all that was necessary. We never had any money problems in that family, since there was no money to argue about. One time that old table had the Ford motor on it to be repaired before Hubert could drive it to school the next day. I think he and Papa worked all night on it inside, out of the cold because it was winter. How they ever carried it in and out I do not know, but of course that motor was not like the ones of today. That old table had many a half beef and pork being cut up for Mom and I to can; many vegetables, fruits and chickens prepared. One of the best smells after school was the freshly baked loaves of bread, still warm, spread out on the bread board so we could let the butter melt as we spread it on the tasty and filling staff of life. That same bread made the most delicious French toast and if, when there was any left after a few days, Momma would steam it in the old iron pot and it was so good and warm with butter and jam or brown sugar. It never was thrown out. One year Papa got the idea that we would get more for our red kidney beans if they were “picked over” before selling them. So every evening, another bushel of beans was poured out on that old big square table and all would sit around the table with the lamp in the middle and sort out the stones and bad ones. After you got so sleepy you got your good ones going in the trash and the poor ones in the best pile. you were sent to bed. Every so often, we would get a new “oil cloth” for the table. We always tried to buy pretty patterns to brighten up the kitchen. When it was new, your arms kinda stuck to the table until it got worn down a bit with all the scrubbing it took. That old table held a family together for a good many years. We always had every meal together; most decisions and commitments were made around that pillar of safety and comfort. (To be continued) Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of EDWARD JONES Invest early — and wisely — for college School is back in session. If you have school-age children, you’re probably busy getting them acclimated to another year of hitting the books. But the school years go by quickly, so it won’t be long before your kids are ready to head off to college. Will you be financially prepared to help them? It’s certainly a challenge, especially given rising costs of higher education. Consider these figures from the College Board: For the 2011-2012 school year, the average cost (including tuition, fees, room and board) was $17,131 per year for an in-state student attending a public, four-year college or university. For a student attending a private fouryear school, the comparable average cost was $38,589 annually. And these numbers are likely to increase in the years ahead. So, what can you do to help meet the high costs of higher education? For starters, you need to save and invest — early and often. And you’ll also want to choose investments that are particularly well suited for college. Here are a few suggestions: • 529 plan — When you invest in a 529 plan, all withdrawals will be free from federal income taxes, as long as the money is used for a qualified college expense for your child, or even your grandchild. (However, non-qualified withdrawals may be subject to federal, state and penalty taxes.) Contribution limits GET MORE NEWS! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. Animal Shelter Director Barry County is seeking qualified candidates for Animal Shelter Director. Position duties include directing and administering the County’s Animal Shelter, including community relations & adoptions, marketing & fundraising, shelter & kennel operations, staff & volunteer recruitment and management, budget & financial management and back-up animal control enforcement. For additional information including a copy of the position description and to apply, please visit www.barrycounty.org or contact Barry County Administration, 220 W. State St., Hastings, MI 49058, (269) 945-1284. Posting Date: September 13, 2012 Application Deadline: October 13, 2012 77571009 NOTICE The minutes of the meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners held September 11, 2012, are available in the County Clerk’s Office at 220 W. State St., Hastings, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or www.barrycounty.org. 77570888 are quite high so, in all likelihood, you’ll be able to put as much as you want into a 529 plan; although you generally can’t exceed the annual gift tax exclusion, which is $13,000 per beneficiary in 2012. Furthermore, if you participate in your own state’s 529 plan, your contributions may be tax deductible on your state taxes. • Coverdell Education Savings Account — Depending on your income level, you can contribute up to $2,000 annually to a Coverdell Education Savings Account (ESA) in 2012. Your Coverdell earnings and withdrawals will be tax-free, provided you use the money for qualified education expenses. (Any non-education withdrawals from a Coverdell ESA may be subject to a 10 percent penalty.) Unlike a 529 Plan, in addition to college expenses, Coverdell funds can be used for kindergarten through 12th grade expenses and you can place Coverdell ESA contributions into virtually any investment you choose - stocks, bonds, certificates of deposit, etc. • Zero coupon bonds — A zero coupon bond is priced at a discount to its principal or face value. You receive the principal value when the bond matures. So, you could purchase a zero coupon bond that matures in the year your child is ready to go to college. Although you won’t receive regular interest payments throughout the life of the zero coupon bond, you’ll still be liable for the taxes on this interest. So, before purchasing a zero coupon bond, consult with your tax advisor. These investments have proven popular among many parents and grandparents. However, you’ll need to consult with your financial advisor to determine which collegesavings vehicles are appropriate for your needs. But don’t wait too long — because, before you know it, today’s grade-schoolers will be packing for their college dorms. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 34.39 -.01 AT&T 37.62 +.81 BP PLC 42.57 +.94 CMS Energy Corp 23.28 +0.03 Coca-Cola Co 37.77 +0.49 Eaton 47.62 +3.40 Family Dollar Stores 63.07 +0.08 Fifth Third Bancorp 15.18 +0.13 Flowserve CP 132.15 +4.73 Ford Motor Co. 10.15 +0.74 General Mills 39.29 -0.04 General Motors 22.97 +1.66 Intel Corp. 23.34 -1.08 Kellogg Co. 50.43 -0.22 McDonald’s Corp 91.20 +2.15 Pfizer Inc. 24.17 +0.39 Ralcorp 72.20 +0.48 Sears Holding 56.56 +3.42 Spartan Motors 5.05 +.04 Spartan Stores 16.14 +1.25 Stryker 54.00 +.18 TCF Financial 11.54 +.24 Walmart Stores 74.06 +.55 Gold $1732.40 +36.45 Silver $33.49 +$1.14 Dow Jones Average 13,323 +288 Volume on NYSE 623M +25 TOWNSHIP OF ORANGEVILLE COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE OF ORDINANCE ADOPTION To: The residents and property owners of the Orangeville Township, Barry County, Michigan, and any other interested person. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that on July 3, 2012, at a regular meeting of the Orangeville Township Board, the Board adopted Ordinance No. 6712, Amendment to the Cemetery Ordinance. A summary of the ordinance appears below. SECTION I - AMENDMENT TO SECTION VI, SUBSECTION E The last sentence of Section VI, subsection E of the Orangeville Township Cemetery Ordinance is amended by the deletion of the following language: “No cremation interment may be placed in the same burial place as a regular interment”. SECTION II - EFFECTIVE DATE AND REPEAL OF CONFLICTING ORDINANCES - This Ordinance shall take effect upon its publication after adoption. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the full text of the ordinance will be available for inspection and may be purchased at the office of the township clerk during regular business hours of regular business days from the date of this publication. ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP 77570971 Jennifer Goy, Clerk 7350 Lindsey Road Plainwell, MI 49080 269-664-4522 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 13, 2012 — Page 9 Looking For a PRINTER? 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We process 35mm Advanced Photo System and 120 film on site. 1 Hour or Next Day Processing • COLOR COPIES • COMMERCIAL PRINTING • INVITATIONS & MORE Conveniently located near you! J-Ad Graphics Printing Plus Charlotte Litho 1351 North M-43 Highway (just north of city limits) Hastings, MI 49058-0188 144 S. Cochran (right on Charlotte’s Main Street) Charlotte, Michigan 48813 (269) 945-5078 Fax (269) 945-5192 (517) 543-4041 Fax (517) 543-2272 Marshall Printing Plus Lowell Litho COMPLETE BINDERY 514 S. Kalamazoo Avenue Marshall, Michigan 49068 WEB AND SHEETFED OFFSET PRINTING (269) 727-0091 Fax (269) 727-0090 105 N. Broadway St. Lowell, MI 49331 (616) 897-9261 Fax (616) 897-4809 �Page 10 — Thursday, September 13, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by JACK C. GREEN, MARRIED and SUSANNE E. GREEN, MARRIED, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated January 26, 2005, and recorded on February 14, 2005, in Document No. 1141418, and assigned by said mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thousand Eight Hundred Thirty-Three Dollars and ThirtyThree Cents ($100,833.33), including interest at 6.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on September 20, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: LOT 5 AND THE EAST ONE-HALF OF LOT 6 OF BUR-MAR ESTATES PLAT NUMBER 1, HASTINGS TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN BEING PART OF THE SOUTHEAST ONE-QUARTER OF SECTION 20, TOWN 3 NORTH, RANGE 6 WEST, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF, BARRY COUNTY RECORDS. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 77570500 JPMC.000724 FNMA (08-23)(09-13) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by John L. Buffinga, an unmarried man, original mortgagor(s), to Comerica Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated August 18, 1992, and recorded on August 24, 1992 in Liber 552 on Page 607, and assigned by mesne assignments to Wells Fargo Bank, NA as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Twenty-Four Thousand One Hundred FiftyTwo and 56/100 Dollars ($24,152.56). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on September 27, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at a point 1364.82 feet South of North 1/4 Post, Section 28, Town 1 North, Range 8 West, thence South 224.46 feet, thence West 400 feet, thence North 224.46 feet, thence East 400 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 30, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #392761F02 77570705 (08-30)(09-20) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Bernice Boocher and John E. Boocher, wife and husband to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for Countrywide Home Loans Inc. dba America's Wholesale Lender its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated May 18, 2007 and recorded July 10, 2007 in Instrument # 1182792 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, LP, by assignment dated February 21, 2012 and recorded March 1, 2012 in Instrument # 201203010002131 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-One Thousand Nine Hundred Fifty-Nine Dollars and Thirty-Two Cents ($91,959.32) including interest 7.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on September 27, 2012 Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 32 of Aben Johnson's First Addition to the City of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 46. Commonly known as 330 E Francis St, Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 8/30/2012 Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, LP, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our 77570689 File No: 12-67089 (08-30)(09-20) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Kirk Robert Reed and Candace Kay Reed, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated February 3, 2003, and recorded on February 11, 2003 in instrument 1097473, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Nationstar Mortgage LLC as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-Two Thousand Five Hundred Ninety and 56/100 Dollars ($162,590.56). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on October 11, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 92 and 93, Valley Park Shores No. 2, according to the recorded plat thereof in Liber 5 of Plats, on Page 62 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: September 13, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #092873F02 (09-13)(10-04) 77570984 Orangeville Township Board Hosts Educational Meeting on Hydro Fracking in Oil/Gas Exploration Invited: The residents and interested persons of Orangeville Township and adjoining Townships Come to a public meeting on September 19th at 7:00 pm at the Orangeville Township Community Center, 7350 Lindsey Road, Plainwell, MI 49080. Hearing addresses concerns of oil/gas exploration procedures (Fracking). A presentation will address facts, law, and range of actions including resolutions, ordinances, contesting of leases and issuance of permits under certain circumstances. Presentation is by individuals & attorneys in environmental protection. All individuals interested in attending are requested to RSVP to secure seating. Please contact either Supervisor Thomas Rook - 616-299-6019, or Clerk Jennifer Goy - 269-664-4522. 77570869 THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. MORTGAGE SALE—Default has been made in the conditions of a Mortgage made by TIMOTHY LEE COLBURN AND JEANETTE ELLEN NORRIS, a single man and a single woman, Mortgagors, to NPB MORTGAGE, LLC, Mortgagee, dated September 13, 2005, and recorded September 19, 2005, Instrument Number 1153020, of Barry County Records, Michigan, which mortgage has been assigned by mesne assignments to First National Acceptance Company, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due as of the date of this notice $76,709.37, including interest at 12.95% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to the statutes of the State of Michigan, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public auction to the highest bidder, on Thursday, October 11, 2012, at 1 o’clock in the afternoon, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, Michigan. Said premises are situated in the Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 16 of Sundago Park, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, Page 71, Barry County Records; c/k/a 82 Sundago Park, Hastings, MI 49058 The redemption period shall be six months from the date of the sale, unless the premises are determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days. Please be advised that if the mortgaged property is sold at a foreclosure sale by advertisement, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 you will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale, or to the mortgage holder, for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: September 13, 2012 LeVasseur Dyer & Associates, PC Attorneys for Mortgagee Assignee P.O. Box 721400 Berkley, MI 48072 (248) 586-1200 (0913)(10-04) 77571000 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Stacy Jones, a single woman, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Polaris Home Funding Corporation, its successors or assigns, Mortgagee, dated August 17, 2007 and recorded August 27, 2007 in Instrument Number 20070827-0001341, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Six Thousand Nine Hundred Seventy and 12/100 Dollars ($76,970.12) including interest at 6.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 09/20/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 47 of Supervisor's Plat of the Village of Prairieville, according to the Plat thereof recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, Page 74, Barry County Records, being part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 2, Town 1 North, Range 10 West, excepting therefrom the East 127 feet thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: August 23, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 2485021600 File No. 682.1523 77570476 (08-23)(09-13) GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. Synopsis ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING September 4, 2012 Meeting called to order at 7:00. All board members present. Approved minutes from the August 14, 2012 regular board meeting. Approved motion to rescind amendment to July 3, 2012 minutes. Treasurer’s report read and put on file. Fire report read and put on file. County Commissioner’s report read. Parks and Recreation report read. Public comment received. Approved paying of the bills for the month of September. Approved paying off the fire truck in the amount of $99,616.45. Approved motion to adjourn. Respectfully submitted, Jennifer Goy, Clerk Attested to by Thomas Rook, Supervisor 77570973 State of Michigan Probate Court County of Barry File No. 12-26094-DE Estate of Cynthia Ann Petkoff. Date of Birth: 5/23/1951 TO ALL CREDITORS, the Decedent, Cynthia Ann Petkoff, died 2/11/2009. NOTICE TO ALL CREDITORS: You are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Charles Dean, named personal representative and to the court, 206 W. Court St., Hastings, MI 49058, within 4 months after the publication of this notice. Date: 5-10-2012 Kathryn M. Russell PO Box 241 Hastings, MI 49058 269-945-4243 Charles Dean 119 Bush St. Delton, MI 49046 77570975 FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Stuart Buckley and Loretta Buckley, Husband and Wife to Member First Mortgage, LLC, Mortgagee, dated December 18, 2002 and recorded December 26, 2002 in Instrument # 1094438 Barry County Records, Michigan on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Fifty Thousand Seven Hundred Thirty-Two Dollars and Ninety-Four Cents ($50,732.94) including interest 6.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on September 27, 2012 Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The South one half of Lots 4 and 5, Block 10, Daniel Strikers Addition to the City, formerly village of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof in Liber 1 of Plats, page 11. Commonly known as 719 N. Hanover, Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 8/30/2012 Member First Mortgage, LLC Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-67461 (0877570694 30)(09-20) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Michael S. Lutes, A Married Man and Suzette A. Lutes, A Married Woman as Joint Tenants, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 28, 2003, and recorded on August 4, 2003 in instrument 1110155, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Fifteen Thousand Two Hundred Twenty-Eight and 07/100 Dollars ($215,228.07). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on September 20, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 29, Mastenbrook's Subdivision, Yankee Springs Township, Barry County, Michigan, as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, Page 39. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 23, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #389949F02 77570254 (08-23)(09-13) STATE OF MICHIGAN 56B JUDICIAL DISTRICT JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY PROBATE 206 W. Court St., Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 945-1404 ORDER FOR SERVICE BY PUBLICATION/POSTING AND NOTICE OF ACTION CASE NO. 12-0899-SP GRAND BANK FOR SAVINGS, FSB Stephanie C. Kamykowski (P74223) Trott & Trott, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy., #200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 (248) 341-4772 v ROBIN L. ALLEN, a/k/a ROBIN PETERS All Occupants 10660 Maple Grove Rd. Nashville, MI 49073 TO: ROBIN L. ALLEN, a/k/a ROBIN PETERS IT IS ORDERED: 1. You are being sued in this court by the plaintiff to recover possession of property after Land Contract Forfeiture. You must file your answer or take other action permitted by law in this court at the court address above on or before 10/3/12 at 9:00 a.m. If you fail to do so, a default judgment may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint filed in this case. 2. A copy of this order shall be published once each week in Hastings Banner for three consecutive weeks, and proof of publication shall be filed in this court. 3. Rick E. Risk shall post a copy of this order in the courthouse, and at 10660 Maple Grove Rd., Nashville, MI 49073 and at The Dayton Tennessee City Court - 399 1st Avenue, Dayton, TN 37321 once a week for 3 weeks, and shall file proof of posting in this court. 4. A copy of this order shall be sent to Robin L. Allen, a/k/a Robin Peters at the last known address by registered mail, return receipt requested, before the date of the last publication, and the affidavit of mailing shall be filed with this court. Date: July 9, 2012 77571005 Judge Michael L. Schipper (P42154) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Rosemary Ann Davis, a married woman and Joel C. Davis, as to homestead rights only, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 9, 2007, and recorded on August 20, 2007 in instrument 20070820-0001071, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Chemical Bank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eleven Thousand Five Hundred Thirty-Two and 08/100 Dollars ($111,532.08). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on October 4, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 11, Plat of Thornton Addition, Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats, Page 72. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: September 6, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #396291F03 77570733 (09-06)(09-27) See us for color copies, one-hour photo processing and all your printing needs. PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy., Hastings. Located in the gray barn �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 13, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Loretta Pezet, A Single Woman to Argent Mortgage Company, LLC, Mortgagee, dated July 29, 2005 and recorded August 22, 2005 in Instrument # 1151447 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Argent Securities Inc., Asset-Backed Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2005-W2, by assignment dated August 13, 2012 and recorded August 15, 2012 in instrument # 2012-003287 and by assignment dated October 28, 2010 and recorded November 2, 2010 in instrument # 201011020010188 and by assignment dated November 19, 2010 and recorded November 30, 2010 in instrument # 201011300011133 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Nine Thousand Three Hundred Twenty-Four Dollars and Forty-Six Cents ($109,324.46) including interest 2% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on September 20, 2012 Said premises are situated in Village of Freeport, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 4 of Block 1 of the Village of Freeport, according to the recorded plat thereof, Subject to easements, reservations, restrictions, and limitations of record, if any Commonly known as 157 Maple St, Freeport MI 49325 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 8/23/2012 Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Argent Securities Inc., Asset-Backed Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2005-W2, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our 77570489 File No: 12-63071 (08-23)(09-13) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Jason A. Hobbs, aka Jason Hobbs, an unmarried man, to Fifth Third Mortgage- MI, LLC, Mortgagee, dated July 11, 2006 and recorded July 20, 2006 in Instrument Number 1167398, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Fifth Third Mortgage Company by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ten Thousand Two Hundred Thirteen and 47/100 Dollars ($110,213.47) including interest at 6.75% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 09/20/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Property situated in the Township of Barry, County of Barry and State of Michigan, described as follows: A parcel of land in the East 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 28, Town 1 North, Range 9 West, described as beginning 777 feet North of the center of said Section 28, for place of beginning, thence West 198 feet, thence North 95 feet, thence East 198 feet, thence South 95 feet to the place of beginning, Barry Township, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: August 23, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 200.9322 77570362 (08-23)(09-13) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by David R. Scott, an unmarried man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Amerifirst Financial Corporation its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated June 20, 2011, and recorded on July 1, 2011 in instrument 201107010006447, and rerecorded on August 8, 2011 in instrument 201108080007508, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eleven Thousand One Hundred Thirty-Six and 17/100 Dollars ($111,136.17). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on October 11, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Northeast corner of Section 1, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, thence Westerly along the North Section line 396.00 feet; thence South parallel to the East line of Section 220 feet; thence Easterly parallel to the North line of Section 396.00 feet to the East line of said Section; thence North on the East line 220 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: September 13, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #408609F01 (09-13)(10-04) 77570977 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Ronald W. Stasch and Gertrude A. Stasch, Husband and Wife as tenants by the entireties., to Greenfield Mortgage, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 13, 2003 and recorded September 5, 2003 in Instrument Number 1112574, and Assignment of mortgage recorded on06/14/07 Document No. 1181740, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by GMAC Mortgage, LLC successor by merger to GMAC Mortgage Corp. by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Six Thousand Four Hundred FortyOne and 98/100 Dollars ($66,441.98) including interest at 6.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 10/04/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 6 of Balm-Meer Plat according to the recorded plat thereof as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats on page 30, Section 33, Carlton Township, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: September 6, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 618.8419 77570883 (09-06)(09-27) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by James Howard Nanninga and Julie A Nanninga husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Chase Manhattan Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated May 23, 2001, as evidenced by Affidavit Of Lost Document dated October 20, 2008, and recorded on October 21, 2008 in instrument 20081021-0010338, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Three Thousand Six Hundred and 73/100 Dollars ($63,600.73). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on October 4, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Assyria, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The South 5 Acres of the East 1/2 of the East 1/2 of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 34, Town 1 North Range 7 West, except the West 100 feet of the South 200 feet thereof, Assyria Township, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: September 6, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #224790F02 77570784 (09-06)(09-27) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Charles W. Mead, a married man and Janice M. Mead, his wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated June 30, 2003 and recorded July 7, 2003 in Instrument Number 1108007, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Wells Fargo Bank, NA by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Five Thousand Nine Hundred Nine and 94/100 Dollars ($85,909.94) including interest at 5.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 10/04/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Beginning at a point on the East and West 1/4 line of Section 27, Town 4 North, Range 8 West, Carlton Township, Barry County, Michigan, Distant East 765 feet from the West 1/4 corner of said Section 27; thence East 220 feet along said 1/4 line; thence South 231 feet at right angles with said 1/4 line; thence West 220 feet; thence North 231 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: September 6, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 326.9682 77570878 (09-06)(09-27) NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE OF MORTGAGE CHARLES J. HIEMSTRA IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE IN THE MILITARY, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER LISTED BELOW. Default has occurred in the conditions of a Mortgage (“Mortgage”) made by Timothy K. Marlin, a/k/a Timothy Marlin and Kimberly S. Marlin, husband and wife, of 2710 Pine Trail Drive, Middleville, Michigan 49333, Mortgagor, to Lake Michigan Credit Union, a state chartered credit union, having its principal office at 4027 Lake Drive SE, Suite 110, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49546, which Mortgage was dated July 13, 2007, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on August 15, 2007 at Instrument Number 20070815-0000958. By reason of this default, the Mortgagee hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of said Mortgage due and payable immediately. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on this Mortgage the sum of Two Hundred Twenty-nine Thousand Four Hundred Forty-five and 41/100 Dollars ($229,445.41). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by this Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the Power of Sale contained in this Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, this Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part thereof, at public auction to the highest bidder at the East Steps of the Barry County Courthouse, 220 W. State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 that being the place of holding Circuit Court in said County, on Thursday, the 27th day of September, 2012, at 1:00 p.m. The premises covered by this Mortgage are located in the Township of Irving, County of Barry, State of Michigan and described as follows: EXHIBIT A Legal Description of 2710 Pine Trail Drive, Middleville, MI 49333 Parcel 2: That part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 32, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, Irving Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Commencing at the North 1/4 corner of said section; thence South 89 degrees 37 minutes 52 seconds East 974.70 feet along the North line of said Northeast 1/4; thence South 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds West 1187.69 feet along the East line of the West 60 acres of said Northeast 1/4 to the centerline of State Road; thence North 72 degrees 31 minutes 34 seconds West 172.30 feet along said centerline; thence south 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds West 287.34 feet to the place of beginning; thence South 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds West 140.00 feet; thence South 79 degrees 26 minutes 39 seconds West 412.61 feet; thence North 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds East 300.00 feet; thence South 78 degrees 11 minutes 16 seconds East 412.30 feet to the place of beginning. Parcel 3 That part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 32, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, Irving Township, Barry County, Michigan described as: Commencing at the North 1/4 corner of said section; thence South 89 degrees 37 minutes 52 seconds East 974.70 feet along the North line of said Northeast 1/4; thence South 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds West 1187.69 feet along the East line of the West 60 acres of said Northeast 1/4 to the centerline of State Road; thence North 72 degrees 31 minutes 34 seconds West 172.30 feet along said centerline; thence South 0 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds West 427.34 feet to the place of beginning; thence South 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds West 220.00 feet; thence South 79 degrees 26 minutes 39 seconds West 412.61 feet; thence North 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds East 220.00 feet; thence North 79 degrees 26 minutes 39 seconds East 412.61 feet to the place of beginning. Parcel 4 That part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 32, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, described as: Commencing at the North 1/4 corner of said section; thence South 89 degrees 37 minutes 52 seconds East 974.70 feet along the North line of said Northeast 1/4; thence South 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds West 1187.69 feet along the East line of the West 60 acres of said Northeast 1/4 to the centerline of State Road; thence South 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds West 264.0 feet to the place of beginning; thence South 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds West 300.77 feet; thence South 79 degrees 26 minutes 39 seconds West 168.26 feet; thence North 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds East 333.72 feet; thence South 89 degrees 15 minutes 46 seconds East 165.0 feet to the place of beginning. Subject to and together with an easement for ingress, egress and utility purposes over a 66 foot wide strip of land, the Easterly line of which is described as: That part of the East 1/2 of Section 32, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, described as: Commencing at the North 1/4 corner of said section; thence South 00 degrees 44 minutes 14 seconds West 888.32 feet along the North-South 1/4 line of said section to the centerline of State Road; thence South 72 degrees 31 minutes 34 seconds East 441.0 feet along said centerline to the place of beginning of the East line of said 66 foot wide easement; thence South 01 degree 13 minutes 25 seconds West 960.59 feet to the place of ending of said easement. Tax Parcel No. 08-08-032-025-05 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale unless determined to be abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period will be as provided by MCLA 600.3241a. If this property is sold at a foreclosure sale by advertisement, during the period of redemption, borrower/mortgagor will be responsible to the purchaser or to the mortgage holder for physical injury to the property beyond wear and tear resulting from the normal use of the property if the physical injury is caused by or at the direction of the borrower/mortgagor. Dated: August 16, 2012 LAKE MICHIGAN CREDIT UNION MORTGAGEE THIS INSTRUMENT PREPARED BY: ______________________________ Charles J. Hiemstra (P-24332) Attorney for Mortgagee 125 Ottawa Ave., NW, Suite 310 Grand Rapids, MI 49503 (616) 235-3100 77570341 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 2012-026162-DE Estate of RENA B. RAYMOND. Date of Birth: March 22, 1923. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, RENA B. RAYMOND, died July 19, 2011. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to MARK RAYMOND, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 WEST COURT, SUITE 302, HASTINGS, MI 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. NATHAN E. TAGG (P68994) 206 SOUTH BROADWAY HASTINGS, MI 49058 (269) 948-2900 MARK RAYMOND 16 NORTH 11TH STREET SPRINGFIELD, MI 49037 (269) 213-9942 77570989 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded bay the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Robert A. Myers Jr, a single man aka Robert Myers, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 8, 2009, and recorded on January 16, 2009 in instrument 20090116-0000463, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Twenty-One Thousand Four Hundred Ninety-Eight and 26/100 Dollars ($221,498.26). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on October 11, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Castleton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That Part Of The West 1/2 Of The West 1/2 Of The Southeast 1/4 Of Section 20, Town 3 North, Range 7 West. Commencing At The South 1/4 Comer Of Said Section, Thence North 89 Degrees 37 Minutes 01 Seconds East Along The South Line Of Said Section 673.55 Feet To The East Line Of The West 1/2 Of The West 1/2 Of The Southeast 1/4 Of Said Section; Being The Centerline Of Barger Road; Thence North 00 Degrees 21 Minutes 40 Seconds East Along Said East Fine And Centerline 330.00 Feet To The Point Of Beginning Of This Description; Thence South 89 Degrees 37 Minutes 01 Seconds West, 717.25 Feet; Thence North 00 Degrees 21 Minutes 40 Seconds East 1940.98 Feet To Traverse Point No. 1 On A Random Traverse; Thence Continuing North 00 Degrees 21 Minutes 40 Seconds East To The Centerline Of Thomapple River; Thence East Along Said River’s Centerline To The East Line Of The West 1/2 Of The West 1/2 Of The Southeast 1/4 Of Said Section, Being The Centerline Of Barger Road; Thence South 00 Degrees 21 Minutes 40 Seconds West Along Said East Line And The Centerline Of Barger Road 66.64 Feet To Traverse Point No. 7 On Said Random Traverse, Thence Continuing South 00 Degrees 21 Minutes 40 Seconds West Along Said East Line And Road Centerline 1925.96 Feet To The Point Of Beginning. Said Random Traverse Being Described As: Beginning At Traverse Point No. 1 Being On The Southerly Bank Of Tahoma River; Thence South 47 Degrees 30 Minutes 23 Seconds East Along Said Bank 237.59 Feet To Traverse Point No. 2; Thence South 88 Degrees 09 Minutes 45 Seconds East Along Said Bank 70.35 Feet To Traverse Point No. 3; Thence North 76 Degrees 18 Minutes 42 Seconds East Along Said Bank 272.05 Feet To Traverse Point No. 4; Thence South 74 Degrees 05 Minutes 32 Seconds East Along Said Bank 76.62 Feet To Traverse Point No. 5; Thence North 42 Degrees 37 Minutes 08 Seconds East Along Said Bank 148.61 Feet To Traverse Point No. 6; Thence South 89 Degrees 38 Minutes 20 Seconds East 33.00 Feet To Hs Point Of Ending At Traverse Point. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: September 13, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #409473F01 (09-13)(10-04) 77570940 �Page 12 — Thursday, September 13, 2012 — The Hastings Banner COURT NEWS Kendall Eugene Leonard, 51, of Hastings, former owner of the Smokey Mountain Tobacco Shop, was sentenced Sept. 5 for possession cocaine less than 25 grams and nonnarcotic analogues. Leonard was ordered to serve nine months in jail, with credit for two days served. He must pay $2,766 in court assessment and serve 36 months on probation. The last three months of his jail time will be suspended pending successful completion of drug court. He must participate in cognitive behavior therapy and Alcoholics Anonymous. Leonard must pay $160 per month toward court assessments. Nicholas Allen Steele, 22, was sentenced Sept. 5 for assault with a weapon. Steele, of Freeport, was ordered to serve 60 days in jail, with credit for two days served. He must pay $998 in court assessments and serve 12 months on probation. The last 45 days of his jail sentence will be suspended upon successful completion of probation. Steele was ordered to refrain from harassing, intimidating, threatening or assaultive behavior toward the victim, plus no contact with the victim. A charge of felonious assault with a dangerous weapon was dropped. William Joseph Schilthroat, 52, was sentenced Sept. 5 for operating under the influence of liquor, third offense. Schilthroat, of Middleville, was ordered to serve six months in jail, with credit for three days served. He must pay $1,948 in court assessments and serve 36 months on probation. His driver’s license was revoked by the secretary of state’s office. He must pay $130 per month on court assessment upon release from jail. The last four months of his jail sentence will be suspended pending successful completion of drug court. He must attend substance abuse counseling, cognitive behavior therapy, and Alcoholics Anonymous. A charge of operating while intoxicated was dropped. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 Estate Sale Garage Sale Business Services ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. BARN SALE: 9am-5pm. everyday Tuesday thru Saturday. 2621 S. M-66 Hwy., Next to Golf Course. Everything from teacups to windows & doors, misc. building items & household, office furniture. BASEMENT WATERPROOFING: PROFESSIONAL BASEMENT SERVICES waterproofing, crack repair, mold remediation. Local/licensed. Free estimates. (517)290-5556. For Sale BOOKKEEPING AFFORDABLE PROPANE SERVICES FOR your home/farm/busiPersonal * Self-Employed * Recreation ness. No delivery fees. Call Small Business Payroll * for a free quote. Diamond WANTED HUNTING Billing Accounts Receivable Propane 269-367-9700 LAND: (2) Families are in* Accounts Payable terested in leasing acreage General Ledger HIGH EFFICIENCY CLAS- for this years deer season. Weekly * Monthly * QuarSIC- Outdoor Wood Furnace Call (269)795-3049 terly * Annually from Central Boiler. 25 year Call today! (269)420-5714 warranty. Call SOS your Automotive “Stocking Dealer” Dutton Mi (616)554-8669 or (616)915- RICK TAYLOR’S DETAIL National Ads 5061. WORKS. CLEANING CARS THIS PUBLICATION OVER 44 YEARS 8:00 TO PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: 5:00, MONDAY TO SATUR- DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is All real estate advertising in this newsDAY. (269)948-0958 paper is subject to the Fair Housing Act deceptive, fraudulent or and the Michigan Civil Rights Act might otherwise violate law which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or or accepted standards of discrimination based on race, color, relitaste. However, this publicagion, sex, handicap, familial status, tion does not warrant or national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preferguarantee the accuracy of ence, limitation or discrimination.” any advertisement, nor the Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal quality of goods or services custodians, pregnant women and people advertised. Readers are causecuring custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly tioned to thoroughly investiaccept any advertising for real estate gate all claims made in any which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all advertisements, and to use dwellings advertised in this newspaper good judgment and reasonaare available on an equal opportunity ble care, particularly when basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. dealing with persons unThe HUD toll-free telephone number for known to you ask for money the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. in advance of delivery of goods or services advertised. GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. 77564784 POLICE BEAT Man confuses blood pressure cuff for handcuffs Hastings officers were called to a home in the 500 block of East Center Street Sept. 6 for a suspicious situation. The caller reported having heard a loud “boom.” When the caller checked next door, the 21-year-old male resident appeared to be unconscious. As police arrived they were told the subject had regained consciousness and left the apartment. The man was found lying on his back, unresponsive, next to a residence southwest of his apartment. Officers noted some swelling on the man’s forehead, along with a small cut that was still bleeding. Officers also reported the odor of intoxicants. While awaiting an ambulance the man regained consciousness and became increasingly defiant and loud, saying he was at his own apartment, he was not injured, and he knew where he was. EMS arrived and asked if they could check the subject’s vitals by placing a blood pressure cuff on his arm. He belligerently replied that no cuffs were going and him and refused medical treatment. He was placed under arrest as a disorderly person. Woman registers three times a little bit Hastings City Police responded Sept. 6 to a reported domestic situation at a residence in the 700 block of East Bond Street. Police learned a 63-year-old man attempted to drive away, which allegedly displeased the 50-yearold woman at the residence. The woman’s daughter reportedly blocked his car by standing in front of it street while the woman climbed into the passenger-side door. Once inside the car, a struggle allegedly took place over the keys to the vehicle, with the woman reportedly assaulting the man several times during the struggle. She later admitted to police she had only had a “little bit” of alcohol to drink prior to the incident. The woman was arrested for domestic assault. At the jail, she agreed to a Breathalyzer test which registered at .257 percent (more than three times the legal limit to drive). The report has been forwarded to the prosecutor’s office. Driver looks down on no plate, no insurance, no license Hastings officers received a report Aug. 28 of a car heading into Hastings on South M-37, swerving around in the roadway. The description given from the caller was a black Porsche with no license plate. Officers followed the car as it proceeded north on Hanover Street See us for color copies, one-hour photo processing and all your printing needs. where it turned west onto Green Street. The driver reportedly made such a wide turn, he drove up onto the curb. A traffic stop, the driver was identified as 62-year-old Hastings man. While he still sat in his car, it began to roll back toward the patrol car. Officers told the driver to push on the brake. Upon questioning, the man admitted he did not have a driver’s license, had no insurance on his vehicle and that the vehicle was not registered properly. He also admitted to “looking down” while he was making his turn, and that it had resulted in his running up on the curb. A portable breath test showed only a trace of alcohol in his system. He was arrested for driving without a license and ticketed for several other violations. Uninvited guests assaulted at party Hastings officers were called to a home in the 400 block of South Hanover Street Sept. 1 where an alleged assault had occurred. Two Hastings men claimed to have been assaulted at a bonfire party. One victim, 22, told officers that he and his 23-year-old friend had spotted the party taking place across the street from where they lived. The two then jumped over a fence and joined the party. The 22year-old said while he was near the fire talking to a woman, a man with red hair approached his friend. The man took a beverage from his friend’s hand and tipped it upside down in the friend’s shirt pocket. The friend allegedly removed the bottle and flicked some of the foam at the man, whereupon another big man with a shaved head ran over to the friend, striking him several times. Both decided to stay at the party. Minutes later, the man with red hair approached him again and struck the second victim numerous times. The two then fled the party to report their assault. Officers went to the scene to obtain statements of the suspects and found that the redhead, a 26-year-old Hastings man already had existing arrest warrants. The man was arrested and the report forwarded to the prosecutor’s office for review of additional criminal charges. Girlfriend is struck, pushed, stepped on Hastings City Police were called to an alleged domestic assault at a home in the 400 block of West Bond Street Sept. 1. A 21-yearold Hastings woman said she and her boyfriend had been arguing. She told police he had thrown things at her striking her in the face. Officers noted scratches on the woman’s forehead that supported her statement. She also said she had been pushed to the ground and stepped on. Officers noticed and photographed supporting evidence. The suspect, a 30-year-old man from Hastings, could not be located. A report has been sent to the prosecutor’s office for possible criminal charges. Loud music leads to passenger’s arrest PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy., Hastings. At the gray barn 77570907 Minor denies what’s obvious to police Hastings Police received a call reporting loud music from a residence in the 200 block of East Grand Street Sept. 4. Police arrived to find a 19-year-old Hastings man sitting on a cooler listening to music. He was told by police he needed to turn the music down. As the man went to adjust the volume, he fell down in the yard. When asked if he had been 77570898 77570904 77570901 Hastings officers stopped a green Jaguar Sept. 1 in the 1500 block of West State Road after the bass speaker sound coming from the car was reported be loud enough to shake the patrol car. The driver, a 19-year-old Hastings man, had recently been stopped by another officer for the same reason. Officers, noticing a strong odor of marijuana coming from inside the car, searched the car and determined that it contained no illegal substance, but the 17-year-old passenger possessed marijuana, measuring scales and several unknown pills. The Hastings passenger was arrested for possession of marijuana. The pills have been sent to a lab for positive analysis. drinking alcohol, he said he had had nothing to drink. Even after officers told him they could smell alcohol on his breath, he denied any consumption. Officers then told him he was under arrest for being a minor in possession. The man replied “No” and pulled away from the arresting officer, was tackled and taken into custody. He now faces additional charges of resisting an officer. A Breathalyzer test registered .197 percent, after which the man admitted to having had one beer. Black bag is key to investigation When Hastings police officers were parking their patrol car after their shift Sept. 1, they noticed three individuals near a car that was partially pulled into the Hastings Public Library drop-off lane, directly adjacent to the police station. One of the subjects had a lighted lamp attached to his forehead, and police were told the car’s key had broken off in the ignition and the three were trying to fix it. Police noted the three seemed nervous about a black bag sitting near the car. As a third Hastings officer pulled up to the scene, dispatch reported a warrant for the arrest of one of the subjects near the car, who then ran from police. An officer tackled the man and a fight ensued. Another officer, just arriving for work, joined in the struggle after Tasers were deployed. After a brief struggle, the 38-yearold Freeport man was taken into custody on several counts of resisting police. The black bag contained a variety of suspected marijuana, pills, scales, computer, product grinder, video camera and other controlled substancerelated items. The investigation is continuing. Resident opens line of credit – for a stranger A Hastings man went to the Barry County Sheriff’s Department Aug. 25 to report suspected identity theft. He said he had received credit cards in the mail that he had not requested. His name was on one of the American Express cards and a woman’s name was on the other card. He said he had called American Express and the cards were canceled, but the company told him to contact local authorities. He told deputies there were several recent incidents where his personal information could have been compromised. He was given and identity theft worksheet by deputies. Deputies also ran the suspected woman’s name through the system and found nobody in Michigan by that name. The case is closed. Same incident has three versions Deputies responded Aug. 22 to a call about damage to a vehicle. The Nashville caller said she had a disagreement with a 21-year-old woman and that the other woman, also from Nashville, was very upset. She told deputies the woman had choked her with a chain and then went outside and starting beating on her car. Deputies report the 1999 Pontiac Grand Prix had dents in the hood and rear quarter panel, plus a cracked windshield. Deputies also observed a bruise around the woman’s neck. When the suspect was contacted, she told deputies the complainant had hit a deer with the car. She denied attacking the woman and told deputies the complainant had hit her on the head with a rock. A witness told deputies a different story and could not confirm either the complainant’s or suspect’s story. The case is open, and a charging request has been filed. Stolen firearm recovered in yard Hastings Police officers were called to an apartment house on the 200 block of South Hanover Street Monday just after 6:30 p.m. where they found a stolen SKS assault rifle abandoned in the backyard. The rifle had been wrapped in garments believed to have been taken from inside the apartment. The weapon was not loaded at the time. An investigation is continuing. 77570894 Mobile home explodes Barry County Sheriff Deputies responded to a reported explosion at Barry’s Resort on Charlton Park Road Sunday, Sept. 9, around at 2:20 a.m. They found the residence on fire and the lone resident standing near his vehicle in driveway. The 59-year-old man had been inside the home when the explosion occurred and received severe burns. The Hastings Fire Department responded to extinguish the blaze, and the victim was flown to Spectrum Butterworth hospital by Lifenet helicopter. Area residents were temporarily evacuated as a precaution. Consumers Energy responded to check for gas leaks and determined the area was safe. The incident has been turned over to the state fire marshal’s office for further investigation. No additional information was available at press time. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 13, 2012 — Page 13 Charity golf classic returns $28,000 to community Penny Porter presented the prestigious Bill Porter Memorial Charity Golf Classic trophy to the Whispering Pines team represented by (left) Kerry Boulter and Tom Drumm. The ninth annual Bill Porter Memorial and Two or Three Together each received Charity Golf Classic has always been consid- $500.00 and were given the opportunity to ered the area’s largest fund raising golf event. share information about their organizations This summer’s outing proved to again be a during the event. winner for the community. The four charities chosen to receive fundCo-sponsored by Hastings City Bank and ing, as determined by participants votes, were the Hastings Mutual Insurance Company, the Green Gables Haven, which received the June 22 event was again formatted to provide most votes and 50% of the remaining profunding to local non profit agencies while ceeds, $13,512.00. In second place was providing those agencies the opportunity to Navigate College Access Network, receiving share information about their work during the 25% of the proceeds, $6,756.00. Third place event, as well. was awarded to Maple Valley Community Golfers and community supporters are Center of Hope, receiving 15% of the progiven votes which are cast for the participat- ceeds, $4,053.60. In fourth place, receiving ing charities. The charity receiving the most 10% of the proceeds, was YMCA Camp votes receives the highest percentage of the Algonquin, awarded with $2,702.40. proceeds. Sponsorships and a portion of the Golfers competed for prizes, as well. The registration fees provide the funding, as does Long Drive Women's Prize of a $150 gift card money raised during the event. to Alfresco was won by Korin Ayers. Long Total proceeds for this years golf classic Drive Men's Prize of a $100 gift card to Bob's were $28,024.00. Lighthouse on the Lake Gun and Tackle was won by Steve Storrs. 50/50 Closest to the Pin Prize of $198.00 was won by Gary Geiger. Long Put Hole Prize of Tuesday Trios Look Ins 6-2; Team Turkey 6-2; Classic Trio 5-3; Sa-m 5-3; CBs 5-3; Blair Landscaping 3-5; Wash King 2-6; Coleman Insurance 2-2; Lu’s Team 1-3; Ghost Team 17. Team High Game: Classic Trio 463; Sam 463; Lu’s Team 462. Team High Series: Look Ins 1293; Lu’s Team 1271; Sa-m 1233. Ind. High Games: Shirlee V. 202; Luanne P. 193; Paula R. 177. Ind. High Series: Shirlee V. 512; Luanne P. 479; Paula R. 472. Moose Mixed #5 Traveling Wannabes 4-0; Caswell Comets 3-1; Strike Outs 3-1; Streeks 3-1; Miller’s Misfits 3-1; The Isotopes 1-3; All But One 13; FNTEN 1-3; S.L.A.M. 1-3; Big Rigs & Racks 0-4. Women’s High Game: L. Schaum 212; C. Caswell 197; K. Wawzysko 190; C. Jones 186; J. Keen 185; A. Weeks 181; P. Weaver 170; M. Hollman 167; K. Peterson 164; J. Rodgers 161. Women’s High Series: L. Schaum 552; C. Jones 521; A. Weeks 514; K. Wawzysko 496; C. Caswell 480; M. Hollman 474; P. Weaver 452; J. Keen 451; J. Rodgers 432; S. Bricker 415. Men’s High Games: R. Jones 259; B. Hutchings 237; R. Bradstreet 237; J. Hutchings 228; D. Chrispyn 225; J. Peterson 205; R. Weeks 201; T. Wawzysko 199; S. Trowbridge 188; T. Hilton 177. Men’s High Series: R. Bradstreet 681; B. Hutchings 673; R. Jones 656; J. Hutchings 11; B. Weeks 573; T. Wawzysko 543; S. Trowbridge 517; D. Chrispyn 510; J. Peterson 482; B. Miller 454. Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Hastings spikers win Bronze Division at Cereal City Invite Hastings scored better at the end of the day, winning both its matches in the Bronze Division bracket at Saturday’s Cereal City Classic in Battle Creek. The Saxon varsity volleyball team was 2-21 on the day. In the Bronze bracket, the Saxons defeated Battle Creek Central 25-17, 25-10, then knocked off Hopkins 25-18, 2517. Hastings started the day with a 25-12, 2510 loss to a tough team from Mendon, then fell 25-19, 25-10 to Grand Ledge. In the final match of pool play, the Saxons split with Harper Creek, winning game one 25-16 but then falling 7-25 in the second game. Saxon head coach Val Slaughter was pleased with the improved play of her back row. Nikki Redman had a team-high 52 digs on the day. Taylor Warner chipped in 40 digs and Becky Barnard added 25. Corrie Osterink also had a good day passing up the ball, adding 49 digs to go along with her 15 kills. Ally Owen led the Saxons in kills with 28. Rachel Quillen had 16 kills and seven blocks to go along with six aces. Erin had 30 assists and a team-high nine aces. The Saxons return to action tonight at Wayland, then Saturday will head back to Battle Creek for the Battle Creek Central HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Hastings’ Christine Maurer (right) passes the ball near the net as teammate Erin Goggins races over during their team’s contest with Battle Creek Central Saturday at the Cereal City Invitational. (Photo by Doug Allen) 269-967-8241 Delton Kellogg Schools Bus Drivers Wanted Must be able to obtain a CDL with B-P-S. must pass State Skill Test and State Written Test, must have less than 7 points on driving record and able to pass physical, including drug test.. Application accepted at the Superintendent’s Office at 327 N. Grove St., Delton, MI 49046. Between 8-3 or email chersha@dkschools.org CHICKEN BBQ FUNDRAISER • Licensed / Insured / Local Call Scott 517-290-5556 • 877-448-1548 FREE Consultation & Estimates! ALSO EGRESS WINDOWS / MOLD REMEDIATION 77570875 Thursday, Sept. 13 — Visiting author Kathy Jo Wargin enchants young readers, 10 a.m. to noon; Movie Memories celebrates cute kiddies with “General Spanky,” 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 14 — preschool story time reads about turtles, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; house concert featuring Jen Cass, 7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 17 — library board of directors meets, 4 to 6 p.m.; computer class takes on Advanced Excel, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 18 — toddler story time enjoys bears, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30; open chess club, 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 19 — teen advisory board meets to set goals, 3:45 to 4:45 p.m. Call the Hastings Public Library for more information, 269-945-4263. The Saxons’ Ally Owen blasts an attack against Hopkins Saturday at the Cereal City Invitational. (Photo by Doug Allen) SAT., SEPT. 15TH Serving will begin at Noon until all chickens are gone! Includes: half chicken, relishes, potato or pasta salad, rolls, beverage and dessert. Eat-in or carry-out. Cost is $7.50 per person. COUNTRY CHAPEL UMC 9275 S. M-37 HWY., DOWLING, MI 49050 For more information phone: 269-721-8077 e-mail: office@mei.net or go to website: www.countrychapelumc.org 07608589 Call 945-9554 for more information. The team of Tripp and Tagg finished second in the ninth annual Bill Porter Memorial Charity Golf Classic represented by (from left) Ty Greenfield, Nathan Tagg, Luke Warner, and Steve Storrs. 06790990 GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! a $100.00 gift card to Dewey's Auto Body was won by Dan Savage. Beat Danny's Ball Prize of $297.00 was won by Steve Storrs. Hole # 14 Closest to the Pin Prize of a Garmin GPS was won by Toot McKeough. Hole # 17 Most Accurate Drive Prize of 2 dinners to San Marcos Restaurant was won by Bonnie Hildreth. The winning golf teams: First Place Prize of 4 gift packs from Suburban of West Michigan, 4 $25 gift cards for the Seasonal Grille Restaurant and 4 sleeves of golf balls were won by the Whispering Pines Team. They received the prestigious Bill Porter Charity Golf Classic trophy, as well, presented by Penny Porter. Coming in a very close second place was the team of Tripp and Tagg, who received 4 $25 Barry Bucks certificates. Many sponsors contributed to the success of the event, including the Downtown Restaurant Association, who provided lunch. Sponsors included: (list attached) Signature sponsors for 2012 were Hastings City Bank and Hastings Mutual Insurance Company. 07608531 BOWLING SCORES Green Gables Haven was the winning charity during the ninth annual Bill Porter Memority Golf Classic. On hand to accept were (from left) Nathan Tagg, Kristy Dombkowski, Stephanie Fekkes, Penny Porter, who presented the award, Randy Teegardin of Hastings City Bank, Janie Bergeron, Green Gables Haven Director, and Bill Wallace of Hastings Mutual Insurance Company. �Page 14 — Thursday, September 13, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Little scores and big plays add up for TK Delton Kellogg’s Kenny Coates is brought down by Hackett Catholic Central’s GeoVante Weston on a run during the first half of Friday night’s KVA contest at Delton Kellogg High School. (Photo by Linda Boyce) Weston leads Hackett over DK with 4 TDs Delton Kellogg’s varsity football team honored veterans and current service men and women before the start of their Kalamazoo Valley Association clash with with Hackett Catholic Central’s varsity football team Friday. A team of Marines helped the Panthers prep in the preseason, but the Delton Kellogg boys are still working on being the best that Service men and women and veterans were honored before the start of Friday night’s varsity football game between Delton Kellogg and Hackett Catholic Central at DKHS. (Photo by Linda Boyce) Sgt. Gino Tristan (left) and Sgt. Burton Black Fox raise the flag before the start of Friday’s varsity football game at Delton Kellogg High School. (Photo by Linda Boyce) they can be. Hackett jumped out to a 35-0 lead in the first half, and went on to a 42-14 victory to drop the Panthers to 0-3 on the year. GeoVante Weston scored four of the firsthalf touchdowns for the Fighting Irish, on runs of 26, 1, 14 and 57 yards. Jacob Buday got the scoring started, hauling in a pass from quarterback Dan Thayer for a six-yard score in the opening quarter. Corey Burdgick scored his team’s final touchdown, on a one-yard run in the third quarter. Delton got a three-yard touchdown run from Cole Ritchie later in the third quarter, then added a 60-yard touchdown pass from Brian Mills to Spencer Saurers in the fourth. Ritchie led the DK offense in the contest, rushing 12 times for 62 yards. Weston carried the ball 15 times for the Irish, for 193 yards. Thayer was 8-of-10 passing for 126 yards and the one TD. The KVA slate doesn’t let up any for the Panthers, who will travel to Pennfield Friday. Every point matters, and the Thornapple Kellogg Trojans proved that with their 18-15 win over the Greenville Yellow Jackets in Friday night’s varsity football matchup. In the end, the one-point difference between Greenville’s safety in the first quarter and TK’s field goal in the fourth quarter coupled with the Trojans’ successful twopoint conversion after the third-quarter touchdown - added up to the three-point advantage in the game. Statistically, the Yellow Jackets may have better numbers, and they were the first to score in the game and the last, but the Trojans’ play in between made the difference. “They had the ball for more than we did,” said TK head coach Chad Ruger. “They’d move it down the field about 50 yards, and we’d stop them and get in a few plays and some yards before having to punt it back to them. That’s how they accounted for their yards.” Greenville’s safety was the lone score for either team in the first quarter at the Yellow Jackets’ new stadium. TK’s Aaron Ordway accounted for both the TD - after a 40-yard run - and the point-after kick for TK’s 7 points scored in the second quarter. Yellow Jacket Miguel Nieto’s 11-yard run into the endzone, combined with Caleb Wolfe’s kick through the uprights in the second quarter, gave Greenville a 9-7 lead going into halftime. But the biggest difference in the game came in the third quarter when Greenville attempted a punt near the Trojan endzone. The center muffed the snap, according to Ruger, and the kicker fumbled the ball. The fumble was picked up by Garrett Harris for a Trojan touchdown. The Trojans additional 2 points after a touchdown in the third quarter was the only 2-point conversion in the game and gave TK a 15-9 lead. Ordway again added to the score by booting a 30-yard field goal in the fourth quarter, making the score 18-9. The Yellow Jackets came back to score a 4yard touchdown by Cory Zimmerman, but neither a kick - which was attempted but failed - nor a rushing or passing play would have been enough to close the 18-15 gap. The rain, which Ruger said lasted through the first half, contributed to three fumbles by both teams. Along with Harris, Camden MacLoed and Devin Sloan recovered fumbles for TK. Harris and Gahan also recorded one interception each for the Trojans. “Greenville is a good team with a good football program. We knew going into it, we were in for quite a battle,” said Ruger. “But we gave them a fight, our guys were totally physical.” TK senior quarterback Grant Allison completed four of nine attempted passes for a total of 32 yards for the Trojans, while Greenville’s Chris Heppe was seven for 14, totaling 142 yards. On the ground, Ordway averaged just over 26 yards on his three carries to lead the Trojans with 79 yards. Nieto’s 18 carries covering a combined 97 yards led the Yellow Jackets in rushing. “Greenville left their normal offense and turned to a passing game, but our defense, our defensive backs shut that down,” said Ruger, crediting linemen MacLoed, Sloan and Pete Westra, along with backs Gahan, Harris and C.J. Bronkema. “It’s the defense, really; they were the ones that did the work tonight.” The win is the first this year for the Trojans who will face South Christian Friday at home, in the first O-K Gold conference matchup of the season. Hackett and Christian put DK in 0-2 hole to start KVA Vikes play their best D so far Viking tennis this season, at Williamston falls in first Though the final 34-2 score might have suggested otherwise, Lakewood Coach Nick Boucher found some progress in his Viking team’s loss at Williamston Friday. “Our defense played the best it has all year,” assessed Boucher of his 0-3 team after the conference-opening loss. “They’ve started to learn the schemes, and the reads are faster. We’re taking the first steps to putting it all together.” Most everyone could see that when, in the second quarter, junior Tyler Oesch blocked a Hornet punt in the Williamston endzone, producing a safety for Lakewood’s only score of the evening. Following Williamston’s three first half touchdowns, that made the first half score 21-2. The Vikings relinquished ground only twice in the second half and looked to be building a tough defensive front behind Jake Tromp and Doug Sunkten who each recorded six tackles and Oesch who add five tackles to his blocked punt. Offensively, the Vikings put up 53 rushing yards and 21 passing yards with Jordan Bennet and Zach Kilbourn combining through the air for some impressive offensive output. The Vikings host Portland Friday. HHS golfers fall to Lakewood after second place Gold finish Hastings edged Wayland by two strokes to earn the runner-up finish at the first O-K Gold Conference girls’ golf jamboree of the season Thursday, at the Mines Golf Course in Grand Rapids. South Christian took the day’s championship with a score of 173. Hastings beat out the Wildcats for second 199 to 201. Grand Rapids Catholic Central was fourth with a 218, followed by Thornapple Kellogg 235. Kylee Nemetz led the Saxons with a 47 and Lindy Kloosterman added a 49. The Saxon team also got a 51 from Katie Brown and a 52 from Ashley Potter. South Christian had the three top scores of the day, led by Morgan Wierenga’s 41. The Sailors also got 43s from Bridget Hemingway and Arancha Baron, and a 46 from Grace Elenbaas. Thornapple Kellogg was led by Sandra Gerou’s 54. Hannah Lamberg added a 58, Deejay Minor a 64 and Camille Irvine a 69. Wayland was led by Ali Martus’ 44. The league gets together again at Hastings Country Club this afternoon. In between the first two league jamborees, the Hastings girls took on Lakewood at Centennial Acres in Sunfield Tuesday. Lakewood came away with a 179 to 201 victory on the Sunrise nine. All four of the Lakewood scorers were under 50 . The Viking team got a 41 from Olivia Barker and a 44 from Emily Barker, as well as a 46 from Victoria Hager and a 48 from Kennedy Hilley. Kloosterman led Hastings with a 46, and the Saxons also got a 47 from Nemetz and 54s from Brown and Amanda Sarhatt. Lakewood’s girls are now 3-0 in duals this season. They knocked off Haslett Thursday at Centennial Acres, 186 to 202. Hilley was the Lakewood team’s top scorer, with a 43. Emily Barker and Hager each scored a 47, while Olivia Barker chipped in a 49. Lakewood head coach Carl Kutch said, “Hilley brought a strong mental-game to the course today. Her ball striking and putting were excellent.” Haslett was led by Libby Dusenbery’s 48 and a 49 from Klaudia Holland. Lakewood followed up that performance by placing third at the 18-team Marshall Invitational Friday, behind champion Battle Creek Lakeview and runner-up HanoverHorton. “We finished better than several ranked teams today,” Kutch said. “Olivia had a wonderful round, including three birdies on the day. I believe it is also the best she has chipped and putted all year, finishing with just 32 putts and three up and downs.” She shot an 85 to place tenth overall. All five Vikings were under 100, something Kutch doesn’t believe has ever happened for the Lakewood team at an 18-hole tournament before. Emily Barker fired an 89, Hager a 93 and Hilley a 96. league duels The progress wasn’t in the scores, it was in the numbers. Lakewood’s varsity boys’ tennis team fell to 0-2 in the Capital Area Activities Conference White Division with an 8-0 loss to visiting Portland Tuesday. The Vikings were closer to having a full line-up however, only forfeiting the fourth singles and fourth doubles flights. The tightest match of the afternoon came at second singles, where the Vikings’ David Parks was downed 6-3, 7-5 by Portland’s Zach Platte. Portland also got wins from Ricky Simon at first singles and Clayton Teachout at third singles. Nathan Goering got the win by forfeit at fourth singles for the Raiders. Lakewood’s best performance in the doubles matches came at number two, where the team of Ray Altoft and Zack Enz pushed the Raiders’ Tyler Socher and Alex Hoppes in the first set, but wound up falling 6-4, 6-0 in the end. Lakewood started the league season last Thursday, at Williamston. Had the Vikings been able to limit Thursday’s match at Williamston to just five of the mandatory eight flights, the Vikings would have had the Hornets worried. However, after being unable to field teams at second, third and fourth doubles, Lakewood was tied to a 6-2 loss which overshadowed the stellar performances of juniors Parker Haskin at third singles and Garrett Phelps at fourth singles. Haskin outdueled Williamston senior Evan Fox, 6-3, 6-1, and Phelps dominated Wade Yauk, 6-1, 6-0. Though they played hard, Viking senior Stephen Nisbet fell to Michael Sienko at first singles, 6-0, 6-0 and classmate Parks was outdone by Brandon Erickson, 6-1, 6-3. In the only doubles competition in which the Vikings competed, sophomore Altoft and junior Alex Everts did their best to hold off Will Sevic and Nick Tingley in a 6-0, 6-2 loss. The Vikings will return to league action with another tough dual at Lansing Catholic this afternoon, then play host to the Lakewood Invitational Saturday. Olivet’s Logan Rohloff (left) battles for possession of the ball with Delton Kellogg’s Zack Simon during Monday’s KVA contest in Delton. (Photo by Perry Hardin) The Panthers performed admirably in back-to-back contests with the juggernauts of the Kalamazoo Valley Association. Delton Kellogg’s varsity boys’ soccer team is 0-2 in the KVA after taking on Hackett Catholic Central and Kalamazoo Christian. Delton Kellogg defender Travis Boze (right) and goalkeeper Landon Grizzle collide in front of the Panther net as Olivet’s Joe Amat comes crashing in along with the ball Monday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Hackett knocked off the Panthers 4-0 in Delton Monday evening, getting two goals in each half. Delton held off the Irish for most of the first half, but gave up two goals in the final 8:01 before the break. Matt Carl scored the first goal for Hackett, then Danny O’Brian found the back of the net one second before the half. Steven Juzwiak and Nate Harpenau tacked on second half goals for Hackett, which outshot the Panthers 18-6 on the evening. Though they outshot a powerful Kalamazoo Christian team by an 18-10 margin, the Panthers came up just short in a 2-1 home field soccer loss Wednesday. Sophomore Mark Ordway opened Wednesday’s scoring with a goal before seven minutes had even expired in the first half. After the Comets’ Josh Laaksonen evened the score 1-1 some 10 minutes later, the two teams played to a standoff for the rest of the first half. Christian found its way past the Panther defense and sealed the victory with the winning goal just over four minutes into the second half. Delton was slated to take on Pennfield last night, and will play another KVA contest at home Monday when it takes on Maple Valley. Call anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads 269-945-9554 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 13, 2012 — Page 15 Saxons win with lots of big plays, few long ones Saxon running back Jason Slaughter does his best Superman impression as he’s tripped up by Forest Hills Northern defender Wyatt Batdorff on a run in the first quarter Friday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) by Brett Bremer Sports Editor “That was some Hastings Saxon football right there,” said Saxon senior running back Kenny Cross. Hastings’ varsity football team improved to 2-1 on the season, grinding out a 20-15 victory at Forest Hills Northern Friday. The long plays were few Friday, but the big ones kept happening all night long. Cross intercepted a Nick Wassenaar pass to set up the Saxons in good position to score their first touchdown late in the first half, a one-yard TD plunge by Jon French. His teammate Eric Hart blocked a punt. The offensive line and running backs for the Saxons chewed up the first eight and a half minutes of the second half on an 18-play scoring drive that gave their team the lead for good. Travis Sixberry pressured Husky quarterback Wassenaar into a fourth-down incompletion deep in Saxon territory to end one Forest Hills Northern drive in the fourth quarter. Hastings quarterback Chase Huisman made sure that the Huskies didn’t get an extra fourth quarter possession, diving across his team’s own 30-yard line on a fourth-and-one play for a first down. “Last week we lost a close one (to Hopkins), which we shouldn’t have lost,” Cross said. “Practice all week, the first two three days were probably the hardest all year. We ran forever and forever and conditioned.” “The kids came out and we practiced with a little bit of a chip on our shoulder,” said Hastings head coach Fred Rademacher. “We took responsibility for what happened. We didn’t execute last week. Not trying to take anything away from Hopkins, they’re a heck of a team and they deserved to win the football game, but we felt we made too many mistakes and we let ourselves down. That’s really what this week was about, really just eliminating those mistakes and continuing to get better.” for 43 yards. The Huskies followed with their longest play of the night, an 88-yard kick-off return for a touchdown by Immanuel Campbell that made it 20-15 after Wassenaar’s two-point run. Hastings took over with just under four and a half minutes on the clock, and managed to eat away all that time thanks in part to the call to go for it on fourth-and-one from its own 29-yard-line with 2:31 left. “Get it. Get it and we win the game,” Rademacher said of the fourth-down decision, one that he and his teams have made many times in the past. “Get it and they’re not going to run me out of town. “It’s one of those, it’s risky, it’s crazy, but it’s high school football. I still think it’s the The Saxons’ Zach McMahon and Stephen Shaffer hold on to Forest Hills Northern back Marcus Matthews as teammates Michael Eastman (30) and David Pierce close in to help finish off the tackle. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Both defenses were solid Friday. The Saxons allowed the Huskies just 183 yards of offense, 125 on the ground and 57 with the pass. Hastings rushed 62 times for 269 yards, and didn’t complete a pass. Huisman only fired one pass, on the Saxons’ first drive of the second half. Hastings trailed 7-6 after the break, after missing on a two-point try following its opening TD. That Huisman pass attempt on a fourth down, long down the left side to Cross, drew a pass interference penalty. Cross also rushed for a first down on fourth down earlier in the drive. The long march ended in a four-yard touchdown run by Stephen Shaffer. Cross’ two-point run put Hastings up 14-7. “They’re a good team. They’ve got a good scheme,” said Rademacher. “They have got a lot of speed out on the field, so that’s going to limit you. It’s nice to pop one, but we’ll take an 18-play drive to open up the second half too.” Shaffer finally popped one, the team’s first rush of over 11 yards, with about five minutes left in the game. His 61 yard gain ended at the Husky three-yard-line, and Cross carried the ball the final three yards on the next play. Hastings led 20-7 after missing on the twopoint try. Shaffer led the Saxon attack with 25 rushes for 149 yards. Cross rushed 12 times for another 58 yards, and French added 15 carries State-finalist Falcons strike down Lions by Doug VanderLaan Editor Lightning struck early at Maple Valley Friday – too early. After taking the opening kickoff and running it back deep into Constantine territory, the Lions followed up with one offensive pass before the game was delayed by lightning. That and what looks to be another state finals Hastings running back Kenny Cross slips through the pile across the goal-line with the football as teammate Michael Eastman (30) begins the touchdown celebration during the fourth quarter Friday at Forest Hills Eastern. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Constantine team, spelled doom. “It was about a 40-minute delay and, when we came back out, we were just flat,” assessed Lion Head Coach Brian Lincoln. “We just ran into the Constantine juggernaut.” That juggernaut is one that Lincoln would expect to continue in the tradition of a Constantine team that has reached the semifinals of the state high school playoffs for three better call than trying to punt it. Our punter had a cramp on the sideline, and again they have faith in it. That’s what they want to do. Give them a little ownership and go get it done.” It was the Huskies who’d ended the first half strong, following French’s TD with a 64yard drive that ended in a one-yard TD run by Jacob Howe and an extra-point kick by Devon Benson. Howe led the Husky offense with 16 rushes for 67 yards. Wassenaar connected on 4-of-7 passes for 57 yards and the one interception. Campbell had two receptions for 58 yards. FHN is now 1-2 this season. Hastings returns to action Friday with the O-K Gold Conference opener at Wayland. Swimmers start with win over Unity One hundredth of a second was all that kept the Thornapple Kellogg/Hastings varsity girls’ swimming and diving team from sweeping the swimming events in Tuesday’s season opening dual at Unity Christian. The TK/Hastings girls won ten of the 12 events in their 118-68 victory over the Crusaders. State qualifier Alexa Schipper helped get the Trojans off to a great start, setting a new team record in the 200-yard individual medley with her time of 2 minutes 21.35 seconds. She was ten seconds ahead of her teammate Hannah Bashore, who finished in second place. Schipper and Bashore also teamed up in the evening’s first event, the 200-yard medley relay, joining Katy Garber and Kayla Kroells in the win with a time of 1:59.98. In between those two races, TK/Hastings’ Kayla Strumberger took first in the 200-yard freestyle with a time of 2:17.67. The Crusaders followed the first three events with their only two wins of the night. MacKenna Nesky outtouched TK/Hastings’ Kayla Kroells in the 50-meter freestyle. Nesky finished in 27.29 seconds and Kroells in 27.30. Unity Christian then had Katie Vaniwaarden win the diving competition with a score of 185.45. TK/Hastings’ Brieanna Sheldon was second in the diving with a score of 175.50. Schipper finished the night with four wins. She also took the 100-yard breaststroke in 1:11.35, and teamed with Garber, Kourtney Dobbin and Marissa Swanson to win the 200yard freestyle relay in 1:52.45. Bashore, Kroells and Strumberger were each three-time winners. The trio teamed with Jennifer Tuokkola to win the 400-yard freestyle relay in 4:09.88. Bashore also won the 100-yard butterfly in 1:05.19. Kroells won the 100-yard freestyle in 58.53. Strumberger took the 100-yard backstroke in 1:07.72. TK/Hastings also had Katie Beauchamp win the 500-yard freestyle in 6:27.21. The TK/Hastings girls have their first home meet this evening in Hastings, against Calvin Christian. GET MORE NEWS! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. SAXON WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE Complete online schedule at: www.hassk12.org The Lions’ Anthony Mahler (2) looks for room to run as teammate Brandon Erwin (right) carries out his fake against Constantine Friday night at Maple Valley High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) straight years and was a state finalist in 2011. The Lions didn’t catch any magic until late in the fourth quarter when, against Constantine’s second-string lineup, Maple Valley recorded its only score, a 55-yard touchdown run by Garrett Miller that did create some excitement and hope for the future. “We just couldn’t move the ball,” said Lincoln. “They had like 570 total yards and we were down like 36-0 at the half. I did lay it on the line with [our team] at halftime and, when we came back, they did hit and tackle better.” The Lions, who stand at 1-2 on the season, face Kalamazoo Christian next week. “It doesn’t get any easier,” sighed Lincoln late Friday night. HASTINGS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS Contact Nancy 945-2742 or hastingsathleticboosters@gmail.com to sponsor the schedule WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 3:45 pm Girls Varsity Golf Thorn-Kell HS OK Gold Jam @ Yankee Springs 3:45 pm Girls JV Golf Hamilton HS 4:15 pm Girls 7th B Volleyball Wayland Union HS 4:15 pm Girls 8th B Volleyball Wayland Union HS 4:30 pm Boys Varsity Cross Co. OK Gold Jam@John. Pk. 4:30 pm Girls Varsity Cross Co. OK Gold Jam@John. Pk. 5:30 pm Girls 8th A Volleyball Wayland Union HS 5:30 pm Girls 7th A Volleyball Wayland Union HS 6:00 pm Boys Varsity Soccer Parma Western HS THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 3:00 pm Girls Varsity Golf Comstock HS Comstock Invitational 4:15 pm Boys Middle Cross Co. Forest Hills North Middle 4:15 pm Girls middle Cross Co. Forest Hills North Middle 4:30 pm Boys Varsity Tennis G.R. Union 4:30 pm Boys Varsity Tennis Grand Rapids Union 4:30 pm Boys Fresh. Football Hamilton HS 5:00 pm Girls Fresh. Volleyball GR Catholic Central 6:00 pm Girls Varsity Swimming West Catholic 6:00 pm Girls JV Volleyball GR Catholic Central 6:30 pm Boys JV Football Hamilton HS 7:00 pm Girls Varsity Volleyball GR Catholic Central A A H H A A H H H A A A A A A H H H A H Times and dates subject to change Thanks to This Week’s Sponsor: Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, P.C. “Quality Care with Compassion” 840 Cook Rd. Hastings, MI 49058 Phone: 269-945-9520 Toll Free: 800-596-1005 Contact us on the web @ www.hoc-mi.com 77570946 Maple Valley’s Tommy Mudge (right) works to haul down a Constantine ball carrier during Friday night’s KVA contest. (Photo by Perry Hardin) THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 3:45 pm Girls Varsity Golf HHS OK Gold Jam @ HCC H 4:30 pm Boys Fresh. Football Wayland Union HS H 5:00 pm Boys Varsity Soccer Ottawa Hills HS Vars. Only H 5:00 pm Girls Fresh. Volleyball Wayland Union HS A 6:00 pm Girls Varsity Swimming Calvin Christian HS H 6:00 pm Girls JV Volleyball Wayland Union HS A 6:30 pm Boys JV Football East Grand Rapids HS H 7:00 pm Girls Varsity Volleyball Wayland Union HS A FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14 7:00 pm Boys Varsity Football Wayland Union HS A SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 8:30 am Girls Varsity Volleyball BCCHS Vars. Invite A 9:00 am Boys Varsity Tennis Lakewood HS Lkwd. Inv. A 9:00 am Girls JV Volleyball Saxon Invitational H 9:00 am Girls Fresh. Volleyball Saxon Invitational H 9:30 am Boys JV Soccer GR Catholic Central H 10:00 am Boys Varsity Cross Co. BC Lakeview A 10:00 am Boys Middle Cross Co. BC Lakeview A 10:00 am Girls Varsity Cross Co. BC Lakeview A 10:00 am Girls Middle Cross Co. BC Lakeview A 11:00 am Boys Varsity Soccer GR Catholic Central H MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 4:00 pm Boys Varsity Tennis Ottawa Hills HS H 4:15 pm Girls 8th A Volleyball Thornapple-Kellogg MS H 4:15 pm girls 7th A Volleyball Thornapple-Kellogg MS H 5:30 pm Girls 7th B Volleyball Thornapple-Kellogg MS H 5:30 pm Girls 8th B Volleyball Thornapple-Kellogg MS H TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 3:45 pm Girls JV Golf Byron Center HS H 5:00 pm Boys JV Soccer Thornapple-Kellogg HS A 5:00 pm Girls Fresh. Volleyball Otsego HS Otsego Fresh. A Volleyball Six Pack 6:00 pm Girls Varsity Swimming Otsego HS H 6:45 pm Boys Varsity Soccer Thornapple-Kellogg HS A �Page 16 — Thursday, September 13, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Area has some of the fastest runners at TK Invite by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Saxon junior Trista Straube is setting her sights high. She shaved about a minute off her time from her team’s first race to its second this fall, finishing second to Hamilton’s Molly Oren in the Thornapple Division standings at Monday’s Thornapple Kellogg Invitational at Yankee Springs State Park. “I’ve been thinking about training for the Olympics,” said Straube. “I have a few friends that said they can get me with higher up runners at colleges and one girl that tried for the Olympics and they’re going to help me run.” She’d like to race in the 1,500 meters, and thinks the difference between her splits in the race and the splits for an Olympic qualifying time aren’t insurmountable at 10 to 15 seconds. “I’m excited. Even if I don’t make it, at least I’m still getting better at cross country and track.” Melissa Winchester and Casey Lawson led the Thornapple Kellogg girls’ team. Full results weren’t available for the Thornapple Division (for larger schools) girls’ race Monday. East Grand Rapids took the day’s championship, with Caledonia earning the runner-up trophy. Straube was one of two medalists from Hastings, with Ronnie Collins leading the Saxon boys’ team with a 24th-place time of 18 minutes and 22 seconds. “On paper, we ran real well. We did okay,” Delton Kellogg leader Zach Haas cruises along the edge of Gun Lake during Monday’s Kellogg Division boys’ race at the Thornapple Kellogg Invitational. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The Saxons’ Trista Straube gets started on mile number two during the Thornapple Division girls’ race Saturday at Yankee Springs State Park. (Photo by Brett Bremer) said Hastings head coach Steve Collins. “The kids beat their times from last year for the most part for the boys. One boy and one girl came home with medals, Trista finished second, so that was a plus.” “There is some really good competition here. We get to see some, East Grand Rapids, the boys’ team from Caledonia is a big Class A, Division 1 school, it’s good for the kids to step up.” East Grand Rapids and Caledonia also were first and second in the Thornapple Division boys’ meet, with the Pioneers finishing with 50 points. Caledonia had 66, followed by Northview 94, Byron Center 99, Thornapple Kellogg 133, Wayland 149, Hamilton 151, Wyoming 195 and Hastings 205. Esrom Woldemichael, from Northview, led the boys’ race from start to finish. He crossed the finish line in 16:46. Byron Center’s John Sattler was second in 17:03, with Thornapple Kellogg’s David Walter third in 17:18. “I think that’s my highest placing for an invitational, so I’m pretty happy with it,” Walter said. “I was aiming for top three, so I pretty much achieved what I came out here to do today.” He said he put in more miles this summer than ever before, prepping for his first season as the Trojans’ top runner. “I just know, to increase your mileage it usually helps you get better and I waited to have the speed until the season started,” Walter said. Austin LaVire was second for the fifthplace Trojan boys’ team, finishing 28th overall in 18:28. TK also had Conor Leach 35th in 18:44, Joe Gaikema 38th in 18:47 and Daniel Vannette 47th in 19:11. Behind Collins for Hastings, Jake Miller was 42nd in 18:59, just ahead of teammate chance Miller who was 43rd in 19:00. The Saxons also had Jacob Pratt 74th in 20:17 and Lucas Elliott 84th in 20:42. Kellogg Division South Christian took the boys’ and girls’ championships in the Kellogg Division (for smaller schools) race at Monday’s Thornapple Kellogg Invitational. Maple Valley’s boys and Delton Kellogg’s girls each had third-place finishes. “It’s nice to be competitive again,” said Lion head coach Robb Rosin. The Maple Valley boys finished the day with 83 points, behind South Christian with 42 and Creston with 47. The Grand Rapids Track Club was fourth with 128 points, followed by Freedom Christian 148, Parchment 168, West Michigan Aviation 178, Comstock Park 191, Delton Kellogg 192 and Fennville 248. Maple Valley’s top five were all in the top 25 boys to finish. Austin Rood led the Lions, for the first time ever, hitting the finish line ninth in 18:49. “This is actually the race last year where we lost him for about a month and a half,” Rosin said. “This is where he suffered from heat-exhaustion. We were excited. We kept kidding him all week about this being his race and he came back and conquered it this year.” Kyle Brumm was second for the Lions, 13th in 19:01, followed by Andrew Brighton 19th in 19:18, Sam Benedict 23rd in 19:30 and Micah Bromley 24th in 19:36. “When you look at the size of the schools. Grand Rapids Creston is a bigger school, and South Christian is always a very solid program,” Rosin said. “So, we finished where we Delton Kellogg's Christi Boze picks up the pace as she nears the finish line during the Kellogg Division girls' race Monday at the TK Invitational. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Hastings’ Ronnie Collins (right) edges past Wayland’s Corey Vandecappelle as they close in on the finish line at the end of the Thornapple Division boys’ race Monday during the Thornapple Kellogg Invitational. (Photo by Brett Bremer) were shooting for. Third was a goal as a team, and I think they all ran really well.” Zach Haas ran really well to lead the Delton Kellogg boys’ team. He was fourth in 17:57, just about 12 seconds behind the leaders. Creston’s Cortez Sims won the race in 17:45, just ahead of GR Track Club’s Noble Ishaiah who came in at 17:46. Creston’s LZ Granderson was third in 17:56. Behind Haas for Delton, Dylan Kelley was 43rd in 20:29, Jacob Morgan 46th in 20:38, Alex Stevens 63rd in 22:24 and Tony Dallavalle 69th in 22:49. Lakewood didn’t get a team score, with just four runners. Traviss Wilkerson led the Vikings in 42nd place with a time of 20:23. Ben Wakely was 48th in 20:41, Tyler McDiarmid 73rd in 23:05 and Treston McGarry 94th in 25:38. Maple Valley’s Jessica Rushford and Delton Kellogg’s Christi Boze were among the local runners among the top finishers in the Kellogg Division girls’ race. Rushford edged South Christian’s Haley Ritsema at the line for ninth place, with a time of 21:26. Boze was 11th in 21:38. Boze led the Delton girls to their third place finish. South Christian won the race with 27 points, followed by Comstock Park 47, Delton Kellogg 82, Freedom Christian 123, Maple Valley 142, Lakewood 154, West Michigan Aviation 165 and GR Track Club 209. Parchment, Fennville and Creston also had runners competing. South Christian had the two fastest runners, with Alexis Miller winning in 19:21 and Megan Schwartz second in 19:34. Delton’s top five were all in the top 30. Sarah Rendon was 21st in 23:20, Marcie Stevens 26th in 23:50, Danielle Morse 27th in 23:54, and Sammi Cleary 28th in 23:56. The Lions are dealing with some injuries right now, and there was a big gap before their second runner finished. Lynzie Trumble was Maple Valley’s number two Monday, coming in 54th in 26:20. Emma McGlocklin was 55th in 26:20, Ivy Braden 63rd in 26:56 and Biz Wetzel 67th in 27:09. Lakewood’s top five runners all finished within 1:07 of each other. Brooke Stahl led the way, in 49th place with a time of 25:49. Lindsey Tooker was 50th in 26:01, Kayla McWhorter 53rd in 26:16, Olivia Loutham 61st in 26:54 and Mycah Ridder 62nd in 26:56. TK volleyball handily defeats Ottawa Hills Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity volleyball team never flinched as they soundly defeated Ottawa Hills in three sets: 25-2, 25-3, and 25-2. The Trojans hosted the Bengals for the first O-K Gold conference game of the season Thursday. TK’s Jessica Ziccarello led with seven kills, Holly Dahlke had nine assists, and Erin Scheidel had seven service aces. The varsity team plays South Christian at home tonight. South is joining TK in a Pink Out Match in honor of former TK teacher Mary McLellen. Hastings soccer opens Gold play with win over Wayland Hastings varsity boys’ soccer team opened up O-K Gold Conference play with a 4-2 win at Wayland. The Wildcats opened up the scoring with a penalty kick midway through the first half, but the Saxons were quick to respond. Once they did, they led for the rest of the evening. Center midfielder Tanner Roderick tied the game at 1-1 about seven minutes after the Wildcats’ opening goal. Four minutes later, Chris Feldpausch scored for the Saxons off an assist from Ben Kolanowski. The Saxons’ 2-1 lead lasted into the second half, until Maxwell Clark scored off an assist from Kolanowski to put their team up two goals. Wayland answered to keep things close, but Hastings got its two-goal lead back on a From left to right: David J. Heeringa, D.O., Orthopedic Surgeon; James L. Horton, Jr., D.O., Orthopedic Surgeon; Eric S. Leep, D.O., Physical Medicine; Kenneth S. Merriman, M.D., Orthopedic Surgeon. People. Passion. Technology Phone 269.945.9520 / Toll Free 800.596.1005 07608638 Welcome to Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, your musculoskeletal experts close to home. We specialize in the Art of Total Orthopedic Care, Physical Medicine, and Pain Management. We provide the highest degree of service in an efficient, personal, and professional manner. Our focus is to maximize the health, function, and quality of life of the population we serve. goal by Carson Williams with 20 minutes to play. Roderick assisted on Williams’ goal. Hastings head coach Ben Conklin said his team was able to “maintain control of the possession for the majority of the game” and that allowed for many chances on the Wildcat goal. The Saxon defense was tough across the entire field in front of goalkeeper Travis Matthews, who had two saves. Hastings returns to league action this afternoon at home against Ottawa Hills, then will host another league foe Saturday at 11 a.m., Grand Rapids Catholic Central. The Saxons follow up those two games with another conference contest in Middleville, against the Trojans Tuesday. The Saxons are currently 5-3 on the season. LHS varsity boys’ basketball coach Farrell steps down Former AD Wayne Piercefield takes reins by Bonnie Mattson Staff Writer Lakewood Varsity Basketball Coach Mark Farrell has submitted his resignation to the board of education After 20-plus years coaching, Farrell cited wanting to spend more time with his family as his reason for stepping down, according to Lakewood Athletic Director Bill Barker. “We appreciate the many years of time and dedication Mark spent creating Lakewood athletes,” said Barker. Former athletic director Wayne Piercefield accepted the offer to take the reins, said Barker. Piercefield stepped in as coach for the final three games of the 2010 season when Victor Imbuzeiro was relieved of the position. During his interim as coach, the team advanced to the district championship game. Piercefield spent two years as Lakewood’s athletic director before taking the position of principal at West Elementary where he has been since 2011. Piercefield could not be reached for comment. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-09-20.pdf df0b52e031262ba297b234a4c02f5884 PDF Text Text DK millage group reports on early progress Vocational training may be the answer D-line dominant in win over Wildcats See Story on Page 2 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 17 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 37 NEWS BRIEFS Walgreens site plan approved Developers for a proposed Walgreens at the corner of North Broadway and West State Street in Hastings and bounded on the north by Apple Street and on the west by Park Street has cleared its first hurdle by gaining the approval of the Hastings Planning Commission during a special meeting Monday, Sept. 17. The site plan was approved 7-0. Commissioner Dave Jasperse abstained due to a conflict of interest. Elizabeth Forbes was absent. The amended site plan included revisions to the facade, such as decorative brickwork and trim, changes to landscaping, moving the driveway off Park Street back two feet to comply with ordinances, widening the sidewalk on Broadway to seven feet and agreeing to a future connection to the parking lot of Greenstone Realty, as requested by commissioners during their regular meeting earlier this month. The next and final hurdle for developers is gaining three variances from the Hastings Zoning Board of Appeals when it meets at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 25. Developers will be asking for variances to allow the following: The building to be set back farther on the lot, the driveway on Park Street to be wider, and more and larger signage on each wall of the building. Hazardous waste collection is Saturday Several groups are working together to host the county’s household hazardous waste collection Saturday, Sept. 22, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Barry Expo Center, 1350 N. M-37 Highway. Numerous items, including medicine, tires, and electronics can be dropped off for proper disposal. Some items have restrictions (for example, oil-based paints will be accepted, but not latex), so check the ad in this issue of the Banner for details. Other items, such as tires, or refrigerated units containing Freon, have disposal fees. The collection is being coordinated by the Barry County Solid Waste Oversight Committee, the Barry-Eaton District Health Department, Barry County Substance Abuse Task Force, the sheriff’s department and local pharmacies. Greek history to be highlighted in ILR program Jim Irwin will bring the history of Greece alive by sharing his travel experiences and images taken during a cruise last winter on the Ionian and Aegean seas and visits to the surrounding area. His program, sponsored by the Institute for Learning in Retirement, will be Tuesday mornings, Sept. 25 through Oct. 30 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Kellogg Community College Fehsenfeld Center on West Gun Lake Road, Hastings. Irwin will discuss the geography, chronology and some of the more famous personalities over a time frame stretching from the Minoan period to Greek independence from the Ottoman Empire. Fee information may be obtained or registration made by calling the KCC Fehsenfeld Center, 269-948 9500, ext. 2803. BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, September 20, 2012 Money squeeze dominates county commission meeting by Doug VanderLaan Editor Cha-ching, cha-ching. As their Oct. 31 deadline looms for adopting the county’s budget for the new 2012-13 fiscal year, Barry County Commissioners were consumed at their committee of the whole meeting Tuesday with financial charts and forecasts, revenue numbers and cost generators. Chief on Tuesday’s agenda were appeals from administrators of four county departments to final recommendations proposed by County Administrator Michael Brown for their departments in the upcoming fiscal year. “A number of things occurred in the last half of this year which have affected our costs,” related County Clerk Pam Jarvis, who asked for an approximate $4,500 addition to her proposed budget to cover concerns with her office’s responsibility to the jury board. “In 2011-12, we had to call in more jurors because of a couple of high-profile cases and because of the change in judges,” explained Jarvis. “Judges want to have 200 potential jurors for a case, and we’ve had to increase our count of potential jurors from 3,000 to 5,000.” Jarvis cited the increased cost of contacting each of those potential jurors and the need for second and third mailings to establish contact. She also identified the recent appointments of new judges to the district and circuit courts as another contributing cost factor. “Until attorneys figure out how the new judges react to the process, they’re asking for more jury trials. Then, when cases get delayed because of new evidence or motions, you lose a whole candidate pool of 200 potential jurors.” “You’re saying that’s unusual?” questioned Commissioner Dan Parker to which Jarvis had a quick response. “I hope so,” said Jarvis. “It’s been a long time since we’ve had high-profile cases and a turnover in judges.” Register of Deeds Darla Burghdoff appealed to commissioners’ sense of customer service in a request that her budget proposal be increased to fill half of a full-time position originally cut in the 2011 budget. Because the eliminated position split time between the deeds office and the abstract office — both part of Burghdoff’s responsibility — the effort to cover has created service lapses in both offices. “With the recent influx of oil and gas researchers, it’s not unusual to have 10 people in the office at the same time,” related Burghdoff. “When an employee is called into the field, it leaves my employee in the abstract office all by herself. “That’s very difficult and really affects customer service because, if she has to leave the office, she has to close it and lock it. Then, no one is in the office to even answer the phone. We’re spread so thin, it’s just not working.” Parker keyed in on Burghdoff’s comment about office use and the fact that revenue from copy sales and document requests have increased dramatically. “I don’t see copy sales going down at all,” agreed Burghdoff. “They’re finding our information more accessible because it’s posted daily on the Internet, sometimes up to the minute,” County Drain Commissioner Russ Yarger cited rising fuel costs as the reason his budget needs an additional $2,666 and for the cost of training and travel for Assistant Drain Commissioner Tammy Berdecia. County Undersheriff Bob Baker made the case for $30,800 be restored to the sheriff’s department budget, $18,000 of which is needed to cover the cost of fuel and employee training. “This is not just for driving around aimlessly,” said Baker of the $9,000 fuel cost request. “Our calls for service have increased dramatically. “Last week, there were no Michigan State Police officers available in the county after 3 p.m., Monday through Friday, and there are never state police officers on duty after midnight. “Everything falls back on us,” he said. Baker went on to describe additional costsaving measures that the sheriff’s department has been forced to make, including the total elimination of coffee, purchase of day-old bread for jail meals and officers doing their own washing and dry cleaning of uniforms. In some areas, Baker pointed out, cost-saving measures previously taken are now resulting in unforeseen expenses. “Even though we’re doing our best, there are other costs now that we didn’t even con- sider — rugs,” sighed Baker. The four presentations totaled $55,000 for commissioners to re-enter into the 2012-13 budget, to modify or to deny. In the end, they opted for all three options. “I don’t think any of these requests are out of line,” assessed Commissioner Ben Geiger, “they’re just the cost of doing daily business.” Parker and Commissioner Jeff VanNortwick added their assents, VanNortwick pointing out that the budget — as it is every year — can be amended as costs and revenues become better determined in the new fiscal year. But others weren’t as quick to agree. “Everyone is short-staffed,” said Commission Chair Craig Stolsonburg in reference to Burghdoff’s request for the deeds office. “Once we increase that (staffing), then everyone will be short-staffed.” Brown stated that all departments are forced into a delicate balance between staffing their departments correctly, but matching the right size with the funding to operate properly. “While we have four departments here today making appeals,” pointed out Brown, “there are a number of others who have chosen not to come to the table with legitimate requests. You risk opening that door.” Parker returned to the legitimacy of adding personnel to departments where additional revenue could be generated with additional staff, such as has been demonstrated by the register of deeds office. “I’m saying that, if adding employees increases revenue because you can do more things in a day, it’s a win-win situation,” said Parker. “I think we’re burying our heads in the stand [to deny it].” Commissioner Robert Houtman suggested that Parker’s reasoning was faulty and would disrupt a county philosophy of placing revenues from departments in position to generate revenue into the general fund where it supports departments that are unable to generate revenue. “That’s like saying, ‘Let’s put on another deputy and car so we can write more tickets.’ It’s the same line of logic,” said Houtman who received a terse, “No, it’s not,” reply from Parker. Stolsonburg proposed and received a consensus agreement that Jarvis be granted her request for funds to offset increased juror numbers, that Yarger’s request for increased fuel expenses be honored, and that the sher- iff’s department return to the Oct. 2 committee of the whole meeting with a revised plan for increased funding. “I believe that 2013 is too soon to honor any employee increases,” said Stolsonburg in suggesting the Burghdoff’s appeal be denied. Brown cautioned that requesting a revised appeal from the sheriff’s department could constrict the budget planning calendar. However, Stolsonburg expressed confidence that the commission can hear the appeal at its Oct. 2 committee of the whole meeting and provide a formal decision at its Oct. 9 official board of commission meeting in time for notice of an Oct. 23 public hearing to be sent to the public. In other business, the commission approved the following recommendations for formal adoption at its Sept. 25 meeting: • A refinancing of 2006 bonds issued to improve and expand the Thornapple Manor Medical Care Facility to take advantage of reduced interest rates. Attorney James White indicated that today’s bond market rates could save the county $835,000 in debt service costs through the issue’s final payment date of April 2025. • Establishment of a new retirement pension division for new hires at the Central Dispatch Authority. Recent contract negotiations directed that employees hired after May 1, 2011, would be entitled to a benefit program different than that for employees hired prior to that date. Delayed paperwork did not establish the new pension division at the time the contract was settled. • The sale of a 2003 Ford Crown Victoria from the county fleet assigned to the Friend of the Court after having been replaced with a newer vehicle authorized earlier by the county. • Approval of the 2013 child care fund plan and budget with commission chair signature to be forwarded to the state in order to be eligible for reimbursable funds. • Approval of a Farmland and Open Space Preservation Program entry request from Regan and Alice Chase of Castleton Township. • Approval of two resolutions increasing employee contribution to the Municipal Employees Retirement System defined-benefit plan by 2.5 percent for department heads and elected officials as previously approved by contract with other county employee groups. The increase affects only active employees and not those hired after May 1, 2012, who will be enrolled in and will partic- ipate in the MERS hybrid program. • A resolution to honor Stephen R. Tackitt upon his retirement as the Barry-Eaton District Health Department’s health officer. The board of commissioners’ next meeting will be Tuesday, Sept. 25, and will be held as an evening meeting. It will be held in the commission meeting chambers at the county courthouse beginning at 7 p.m. ArtPrize 2012 now underway Local artist Clayton Damren is one of many local artists entered in the fourth annual ArtPrize competition in Grand Rapids. See page 3 for a story on Damren’s ArtPrize entry. HHS names 2012 homecoming court Members of the 2012 Hastings High School homecoming court are (front, from left) Katy Garber, Olivia Rose, Kelsi Harden, Corrie Osterink, Taylor Carter, (back) Maxwell Clark, Alex Cherry, Ben Kolanowski, Tom Peurach and Ian Beck. Next week, Monday, Sept. 24, through Friday, Sept. 28, is homecoming week at Hastings High School. The annual event will bring a variety of activities and competitions such as hall decorating, lunchtime games, float building and more — featuring a comic book superhero theme — and designed to build class and team spirit, leading up to the homecoming game against the Ottawa Hills Bengals at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 28, at Baum Stadium at Johnson Field. Before Friday’s big game, the homecoming parade will line up at 5:30 p.m. and step off at 6 p.m. This year’s grand marshals are some of the district’s recently retired teachers, including Kim O’Mara, Deb Mepham, Patti LaJoye, Alice Gergen, Janet Foley, Patricia Gibson, Joan Bosserd-Schroeder and more. The parade will proceed east on South Street to South Church Street where it will turn north and proceed to Clinton Street then west to Young Street and the high school. It is also tradition for the school to name the five senior boys and five senior girls who were nominated by their classmates for the homecoming court. The homecoming king and queen will be elected from the court by the entire high school student body and will be announced during half-time of the football game. Members of this year’s homecoming court See HOMECOMING, pg. 2 �Page 2 — Thursday, September 20, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Pierce Cedar Creek fundraiser brings in $17,000 Several food and drink stations at “A Late Summer Night’s Green” offer a variety for the evening’s strolling dinner and fundraiser. HOMECOMING, continued from page 1 include: Ian Beck, who has participated in student council, marching band, steel drum band and Friday morning Bible study for four years. He played varsity soccer and served as an ASP tutor for three years. Beck also played varsity basketball and is a member of the National Honor Society. Taylor Carter has participated in basketball, cross country and Varsity Singers for four years; a member of Key Club and Youth Leadership Council for three years; participated in track and powder puff football for two years. In addition Carter, participated in tennis, Science Olympiad, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, the television production class (TVP), ski club and National Honor Society. Alex Cherry, at school, has participated in ski club, basketball and soccer for four years; Youth in Government for three years, Spanish Club, Key Club, Quiz Bowl, Youth Leadership Council, Science Olympiad, and Varsity Singers for two years. Cherry has also participated in student council and Regional Honors Choir for one year. He is a member of the National Honor Society. Outside of school, he has participated in the Emmanuel Episcopal Youth Group for four years and its mission trip for one. Maxwell Clark has participated in basketball and soccer for four years, student council for three years, Key Club, prom committee, and Youth Leadership Council and varsity football for one year and has been active in his church’s youth group for two years. Katy Garber, at school, has participated in student council, dance team, swim team, track and field, and Key Club for four years, Community Center Student Advisory Council, Spanish Club and Varsity Singers for two years, and spring musical and tutoring for one year. She is a member of the National Honor Society. Outside of school Garber has participated in her church’s youth mission trip for three years, St. Cecilia Orchestra in Grand Rapids for two years and the Blue Lake International Youth Symphony Orchestra for one year. Kelsi Harden has participated in Key Club, student council, Science Olympiad, and tennis for four years, Youth in Government, volleyball and basketball for three years, ASP tutors for two years, and cross country and Youth Leadership Work Group for one year. She is a member of the National Honor Society. Ben Kolanowski, at school has participated in track for four years soccer and basketball for three; student council, Youth Leadership Summit, and Saxon Chest Painting Club for two years. Outside of school, Kolanowksi has participated in the St. Rose youth group for two years and volunteered at Pennock Hospital for one year. Corrie Osterink, at school, has participated in volleyball, track and Key Club for four years, Science Olympiad for three years, basketball and band for two years, and winter musical, student council, Business Professionals of America and FFA for one year. She is a member of the National Honor Society. Outside of school, Osterink has participated in the Hope United Methodist Church youth group for four years and its youth mission trip for two. Tom Peurach, at school, has participated in golf for four years, Youth Leadership Council, Science Olympiad, spring musical, Varsity Singers, Key Club, tennis, and TGIF Study Group, for three years, Spanish Club Plus and Fellowship of Christian Athletes for The quartet Bows ‘n’ Buddies plays in Pierce Cedar Creek’s dining room during the annual fundraiser “A Late summer Night’s Green.” More than 135 people attended the evening’s celebration. Anti-fracking group preparing for meeting Visitors to Pierce Cedar Creek Institute’s annual fundraiser look over 119 silent auction items, ranging from jewelry and wood carvings to watercolors and snowshoes. At the end of the evening, the event cleared nearly $15,000. A new live auction offering, Funding the Future, raised $2,300 for student programs. Corrine Turner (right) of the Barry County anti-fracking nonprofit group Michigan Land Air Water Defense has information available for attendees at the Walk-in-theSpirit Pow Wow last weekend in Charlton Park. The group will hold its first public meeting Saturday, Sept. 22, in the Hastings High School Lecture Hall from 1 to 3 p.m. 07609874 Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, P.C. 840 Cook Road Hastings, MI 49058 Call Today: 537 W. Main Street Ionia, MI 48846 (269) 945-9520 (800) 596-1005 551 Linn Street Allegan, MI 49010 Visit us online: www.hoc-mi.com two years, and student council, TVP, tutoring, and Youth in Government for one year. He is a member of the National Honor Society. Outside of school, Peurach has taken part in his church’s youth mission trip for four years and been a member of the Youth Advisory Council for three years. Olivia Rose, at school, has participated in student council, Key Club, Drama Club, YETI/Youth in Leadership and dance team for four years; Youth in Government and Varsity Singers for three years; cross country and Spanish Club for two years; and soccer, track and field and tennis for one year. She is a member of the National Honor Society. Outside of school, Rose participated in youth mission trips for two years and the Youth Advisory Committee for one year. DK millage committee reports to board on early progress by David DeDecker Staff Writer Miller-Davis, a Kalamazoo-based construction management firm, has been hired to evaluate Delton Kellogg school facilities and provide recommendations as part of the planning for an upcoming May millage issue, according to Delton Kellogg Public School board member Jim McManus, who is helping to lead a bond committee made up of community members. McManus presented a report on the committee’s progress during Monday’s Delton Kellogg Board of Education meeting. McManus said 30 citizens participated in the committee’s initial meeting in August which then prioritized a lengthy list of what they feel the schools need, including major concerns in the areas of technology, classroom furniture and athletic facilities improvement. Miller-Davis was one of three firms interviewed and will not be paid for their work unless the May millage passes, said McManus. The bond committee’s next meeting will be tonight, Thursday, Sept. 20, in the high school at 7 p.m. In other business, the board approved several school positions, including Michelle Fredericks, course credit recovery; Carol Nieman, tutor and success center; Terry Bourdo, bus driver; Teresa Sheffer and Stacey Elkins, special education para-professionals. Superintendent Paul Blacken reported large class sizes in fourth grade. He said he is working with Elementary Principal Steve Scoville on a solution to reduce the studentto-teacher ratio in those classes. Blacken said a local Eagle Scout will be working on the bleachers at the soccer field for his project. He also told board members the annual MEAP tests weeks are approaching and will start Oct. 8. Homecoming will be next week with the Delton Kellogg Panthers meeting up with Kalamazoo Christian. Liz Jackson and Zach Haas spoke on behalf of the high school’s student council and explained the different days leading up to the game Friday, Sept. 28. Homecoming court will be celebrated at halftime with the announcement of 2012 king and queen. Cindy Mursch summarized the success of the Summer Fun Program. Held Tuesdays and Thursdays for seven weeks, the program served an average of 16 families each week and averaged seven to 37 children per session. She said those numbers did not include the school’s day care program or other day care providers who brought their charges. Totally, 25 different families participated with 70 different children. Children learned about gardening and picked 216 pounds of produce over the summer, which was distributed evenly to participating families. The most recent 40-pound harvest was donated to a local food bank. Children learned about world food and cultures, animal care, personal safety and first aid and banking. The program was sponsored by Orangeville Community Outreach with some programming from the YMCA. Sajo’s provided 100 personal pizza certificates for those participating in the summer fun and reading programs. Monday’s spotlight also shone on students involved with the fall theater production of “All Shook Up!” which combines Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night” with the music of Elvis Presley. The production is scheduled for Nov. 14, 16 and 17. Athletic Director Mike Mohn spoke about the fall sports schedule and the progress of DK teams. He said the boys and girls crosscountry teams are very competitive this year with about 60 students on the teams. He said participation on all teams have been up this year. The varsity volleyball team is ranked 10th in the state. The football teams continue to battle and play well. Scoville said the elementary school will take two trips to Mackinac, May 1 to 3, and May 8 to 10, 2013. The cost to students will be $240 and for supervising adults, $255. Fundraising will take place throughout the school year. The next board of education meeting will be at the elementary school Monday, Oct. 15, at 7 p.m. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 20, 2012 — Page 3 Hastings stained-glass artist enters ArtPrize competition three-dimensional sculptures. “I estimate that I two-thirds of them have been sold or are in galleries, and the other third will stay in storage for the rest of my life,” he said with self-deprecating humor. “My windows tend to be a little wild.” In addition to his community education class, Damren also worked at a stainedglass studio in Grand Rapids for two years, where he was able to attend classes for free whenever there was a vacancy. While he was trained in traditional stained-glass technique and materials, Damren likes to experiment and use a variety of materials in his work. “I used traditional Tiffany stained glass, but I also use pieces of antique glass, agate slices, seashells, candy bowls and other things I find at antique stores,” he said. “My wife, Kathryn, has learned not to question me at garage sales. Before we got married, my wife was one of my best customers.” Damren’s work is for sale at the Jefferson Street Gallery in Hastings as well as lakeshore galleries from Holland to Traverse City and a gallery in Detroit. Damren’s ArtPrize entry is entitled “Beauty Pageant on Pluto” and includes five lighted female forms made of stained a glass and a variety of other translucent materials — “Bambi,” with the head of deer, “Daisy,” with flower motifs, “Clown Lady” jesterstyle spikes on her head, “Robot” with a lights in a dome atop her head, and a fifth, as yet unnamed piece — all of which will be on display at Purple East. “I had heard it takes up to a year for some artists to match with a venue. I had applied put hadn’t gotten any replies from anyone, so I decided to take my work with me and talk to some people in person,” said Damren. “Purple East was one of two smaller venues I talked to. The guy I talked to said he wasn’t the one in charge of the decision but when I showed him my work, he got on the phone and was like, ‘You ought to see his stuff. We have to have this guy,’ and I was in. They have been very nice to work with.” While this is Damren’s first ArtPrize entry, he has participated in and won several stained-glass competitions over the years. “I’ve been to a lot of stained-glass competitions, but you don’t see a lot of fullform female figures made out of stained glass,” he said. “Working in 3-D isn’t easy. When you work on a form, you have to remember that it has to come off the form. More than once, I caught myself soldering over the do-not-solder line. But, I love the challenge of 3-D and doing something kind of crazy.” Damren said that each of the five pieces in his entry took approximately six weeks to finish. “Since February, I’ve been pretty much non-stop,” he said. “I put in at least eight hours a day, but the last two months, things have gotten more urgent. Working in fullform stained glass is very time-consuming because there are no patterns. If you were H a s t i n g s stained-glass artist Clayton Damren stands in his basement workshop with one of the pieces he will be entering in ArtPrize. This is a close-up of the head of one of the stained-glass figures Clayton Damren is entering in ArtPrize 2012. An unnamed lighted stained-glass female figure in Clayton Damren’s Hastings workshop. by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer When friends asked why he was making his first foray into ArtPrize, Hastings stained-glass artist Clayton Damren didn’t hesitate to answer, “To win $100,OO0.” “I have a good friend out in Holland [Michigan] who’s affiliated with ArtPrize and she said, ‘Well, you might as well not bother then,’” said Damren. “But, I say, ‘You gotta have hopes.’ Every time I go fishing, I always think, ‘Today I’m going to catch the biggest northern pike ever.’ But, when I don’t, it doesn’t mean it was a bad day. And, when I buy a lotto ticket, that doesn’t mean I don’t go out and spend the money; but, it’s fun.” Damren is one of 1,517 artists showing their work at more than 160 venues in an approximately three-mile radius in downtown Grand Rapids during ArtPrize, the world’s largest art competition, which began Wednesday, Sept. 19, and runs through Thursday, Oct. 4. A total of $360,000 in prize money is available through the public voting competition, or popular vote, and $200,000 in juried awards. Damren has been creating in stained glass since he was temporarily laid off from his job in the machine shop at E.W. Bliss in 1987. “I wanted to do something with my time, so I took some community education classes,” he said. “Stained glass was my first class, and when I walked out that night I knew I couldn’t afford the second class so stained glass it was. “I’ve always loved 3-D, but that was the first art class I took other than what they taught us in elementary school.” After graduating from Thornapple Kellogg High School, Damren earned a bachelor’s degree in fisheries biology. But, outside of two years in the Peace Corps, he spent his career in manufacturing. After he retired, he was able to dedicate himself to his art full time. From his basement workshop in rural Barry County, Damren, by his own count, has created several hundred pieces— everything from windows and lamps to making a lamp, you would have a pattern, cut all the pieces, foil and solder. With this, you have to cut each piece, foil, solder then repeat. It takes a lot longer.” Damren said despite the odds, he’s optimistic about his chances of earning one of the cash prizes, whether by jury or popular vote. “You gotta hope,” he said. Purple East is located at 250 Ionia Ave. SW in Grand Rapids’ Heartside Neighborhood. At left: “Clown Lady,” with jester-style spikes on her head, is part of Clayton Damron’s “Beauty Pageant on Pluto” ArtPrize entry. “Daisy” is one of five stained-glass female figures Clayton Damren will enter in Grand Rapids’ third annual ArtPrize. New Car Loan 1.99% Interest 2.285% APR* We'll put you in the driver’s seat with a great loan rate! *Annual percentage rate. Car loan is subject to credit review and approval. Rates are subject to change. A Hastings City Bank checking account with direct deposit and automatic loan payment is required to obtain this rate. Maximum term is 66 months for new (untitled) vehicles only. Example: a $25,000 loan at 2.285% APR would have 66 monthly payments of $400.22. Contact any Hastings City Bank lender for other rates and terms available. 1-888-422-2280 77571118 �Page 4 — Thursday, September 20, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? A whiter shade of squirrel Vocational training may be the answer Lou Maurer, who lives near Doster, snapped this photo in his backyard Sept. 13. He said residents have seen white squirrels in the Doster area for 50 years or more. Thursday, this squirrel came as close to the house as they had ever seen, and stayed long enough for Maurer to take nine or 10 photos. We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Do you know? Do you recognize this man or know why he seems to have been put in a corner to speak? Do you know when the photo was taken? What can you tell us about this photo? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event to reunite the photos with their original clippings or identify photos that may never have been used. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@jadgraphics.com; or call 269-945-9554. Two people responded to last week’s football photo, one recognizing the people in the photo; the other recognizing the formation. Bob Reasor identified the three young men facing the camera as (from left) Ralph Gies, Dick Feldpausch (19) and Owen Thomas (60). The coach was Joe Brozak, but he was not sure of the identity of the player with the ball. Dr. Jim Atkinson recognized the lineup as a single-wing backfield, a rarely used offensive strategy pioneered by Knute Rockne at Notre Dame and popularized by the Four Horsemen backfield. In this lineup, said Atkinson, the player with the ball is the quarterback. The guy in the middle, Feldpausch in this case, would be called a Have you spinning fullback. The guys beside him were right and left halfbacks, respectively. “It’s an offense everyone learned to defend against,” said Atkinson, adding that he knows of only one team in Michigan that uses the singlewing backfield offense. met? Amy Cherry is justifiably proud to be the director of the Battle Creek Public Schools Outdoor Education Center and Clear Lake Camp in Dowling and continuing its tradition of introducing to and teaching children about the joys and wonder of nature. Built in 1933, as a boarding school for rural children by W. K. Kellogg, in 1940 it became the nation’s first outdoor education center. It was and still is operated by Battle Creek Public Schools and 100 percent funded by the Kellogg Foundation. Cherry earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education from the University of Cincinnati with a concentration in English literature and followed it with a master’s degree in education from Northern Illinois University with a concentration in outdoor and environmental education. She was fresh from earning her master’s degree when she came to the outdoor education center as a resident fifth and sixth grade instructor/counselor in August 1986. A year later, Cherry moved from the camp to Hastings when she accepted a non-resident position running the third and fourth grade gardening program, which she held for 23 years until she was named resident director in 2010. Cherry met her husband, Jason Cherry, at the Blandford Nature Center in Grand Rapids when he was the guest speaker giving a lecture on rare and endangered plant species in West Michigan. The couple has two sons who attend Hastings High School, Alex, a senior, and Marshall, a sophomore. The Cherrys are active members of Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Hastings and members of the Pierce Cedar Creek Institute. If you could go back in time, where and when would you go? I’d really like to go back to 1800 when John Adams was the first president to live in the White House. I like that time period; a lot was happening, politically. I’d like to know how he felt about slaves building the White House, which was built on swamp. I am curious whether there was any discussion Amy Cherry about who was actually building it. What do most people not know about you that they would be surprised to learn? I was the 1975 Rodeo Queen of Kelly, Wyoming. I attended a summer camp in Kelly and at the end of the summer, the girl who had earned the most rodeo points was named queen. If your life had a theme song, it would be: “My Favorite Things” from “The Sound of Music.” I like to look on the bright side of things. I am a cup-half-full-type of person. Favorite movie: “The Sound of Music,” hands down. I saw it five times in the theater when it first came out in 1965. It was my first movie, and I got to sit in the front row of the balcony, and I went back to see it in the theater again and again. Favorite childhood memory: Growing up outside of Cincinnati with four siblings. We had ponies, and in the summer we had a big garden. We would be outside playing in the barn, and we could ride our bikes on trails through the woods to all our friends’ houses without ever having to go on the road. We rode our bikes everywhere. Person I admire the most: Jean Craighead George. She is an author of juvenile fiction who wrote outdoorsy books like “Julie of the Wolves.” She was able to take her love of the natural world and write books that have been classics in young adult fiction. For a lot of young adult readers, her books are the first they read about the natural world. Advice you would you give a graduate: Be true to your heart and follow your passion, and the rest will fall in line. Best advice you ever received: My mom told me when I was a teenager, “Always leave the party while you’re still having a good time. You’ll always remember it as fun — don’t stick around until something bad happens or you get bored.” If I could change one thing: I would make sure that all children honestly have the same access to equal and quality education. I am most proud of: Raising two great boys. I am really proud of my boys; I think they are great guys. And, I am proud to be the director here and what I have been able to accomplish in two years. Throughout the country, unemployment and underemployment remain big news as the nations continues its sluggish economic recovery. However, according to many business leaders and despite the huge number of unemployed, good qualified candidates are still hard to find. According to a June 2012 Upjohn Institute report, 12.7 million Americans are unemployed, of which 42.8 percent had been jobless for 27 weeks or longer. Experts continue to struggle for answers to the growing problem of how long the economic recovery might yet last. The ability to find good workers isn’t just the problem of the president or the governor or any legislative body — our families share in some of the blame. We must accept some of the responsibility to prepare our kids and grandkids for the world of work. Last week, due to shortages in so many fields, Gov. Rick Snyder talked about the importance of vocational and career training in our high schools. He called for a reemphasis on vocational and community college education, rather than putting all the emphasis on traditional four-year degrees. For eight years, the Granholm administration focused on preparing high school students for college. Yet, in much of Michigan, 50 percent or more of high school students had no intention of going to college. So, why didn’t the Michigan Department of Education call the question? What happens to all these kids who aren’t going on to college? Are we giving them the appropriate career training they’ll need to find good jobs? For years, Michigan’s high schools supported programs for electricians, carpenters, auto mechanics, industrial arts and more. Today, most high schools have gutted their entire vocational training program for college preparatory programs. In Hastings, there’s an after-school welding class two days a week for area high school students or adults. There’s also the 21st Century Health program, giving high school students an opportunity to work in a health-related field. And, for three years, the Gilmore Garage Works program has made it possible for high school juniors and seniors to attend a specialized program at the Gilmore Car Museum two days a week that gives students an opportunity to get handson experience in auto-related fields. Recently, Gov. Snyder told a group of West Michigan businessmen that “Michigan and the rest of the country lost sight of the value of vocational training as young people were encouraged to get four-year-college degrees.” He went on to say that “too many students have been pushed toward getting four-year college degrees when vocational education or community college might have made more sense. So, we sort of messed up over the past 20 or 30 or 40 years. We’ve lost the focus on how important those roles are.” Snyder told the business group that thousands of jobs in skilled trades go unfilled each year while people continue to look for work. “How dumb is that?” Snyder asked. The governor went on say that he intends to convene a summit of educators and employers early next year to get a better sense of where the demand for jobs is strongest — and use the information to help re-design Michigan’s education system. It’s what many Michigan business leaders have been saying for years, but the state continues to push four-year degree programs and doesn’t offer our non-college students any career counseling and direction that will lead them to proper career choices. Families have a role to play. It’s easy to lay blame on educational institutions and expect local schools to do all the work when, in the end, it’s really up to parents to make sure their students make the grade. For several years, we’ve been looking for a scapegoat to blame for our inability to solve the employability crisis. It reminded me of something that John Nesbit, author of Megatrends, wrote. “China understands better than the U.S. that higher education is the platform from which to build a sound economy via a skilled workforce,” said Nesbit. “We do not help ourselves by blaming them for being right.” Since the late 1940s, American schools concentrated on preparing students for higher education or for the world of work by offering two curriculum programs — college or career preparation. For more than four generations, the nation’s businesses and industries had plenty of applicants to fill available jobs. Yet, today, with so much emphasis on college and with little or no support for vocational training, fewer of our non-college-bound students are ready for the jobs that are now open. Consequently, they end up in lowskilled positions, with more of the highskilled jobs going to fewer candidates. According to the Michigan Department of Education, the state board of education unanimously adopted a resolution earlier this year reaffirming its support of four essential education policy positions that “will move Michigan schools forward.” The four pillars are: • To move from a paper-and-pencil MEAP test to an online assessment system linked to rigorous state learning standards. • To adopt performance-based funding focused on student progress. • To maintain the rigor required in the Michigan Merit Curriculum. • To maintain the Michigan Department of Education staffing as requested in the executive budget to support a strong department that will implement polices that meet state and federal legislation. Read them again, they say very little about kids or the overall quality of education — and nothing about preparing them for the jobs they seek. The goals are all about testing and evaluation. The board went on to reaffirm the job that Superintendent Mike Flanagan has done by giving him a positive evaluation, despite the trend throughout Michigan’s education system of leaving so many of our youths unprepared to work. Nowhere in the education department’s mission is anything said about training our students to compete or maintaining a focus on preparing them for the jobs that go unfilled everyday. “America, more than any nation in history or on earth,” said Nesbit, “has the resources with which to educate and train the most competent workforce imaginable.” But if we expect to win the battle over jobs, we must reaffirm our commitment to career training, or we will continue to see high unemployment and job losses to countries around the world that continue to compete with a highly trained workforce. According to our local Michigan Works office, the top 10 job categories from Michigan’s “Hot 50” list are registered nurses, customer service representatives, truck drivers, accountants and auditors, licensed practical nurses, industrial engineers, computer systems analysts, human resources training and labor relations specialists, network systems and data communications analysts and insurance sales agents. A more local list, the office states, might look like this: registered nurses, CNAs, truck drivers, hairdressers, welders, experienced CNC and lathe operators, cooks, banking occupations, insurance sales, and accounting professions. I would agree that all of the jobs listed need some specialized training, but only some require a four-year degree. Many of our high school graduates would benefit from a vocational training program that offers experience to help them find an area of work that appeals to them — along with providing a feeling of worth that could impact their overall educational success. I’m glad the governor understands the seriousness of the problem and will include the issue on his agenda in the coming year. Our Michigan legislative and educational leaders should continue to promote pathways to college for students. But, we also must, in good conscience, support the rest of the student population by helping them find career paths that are suitable for each student. It’s the only way our state and the nation will be able to compete in this global marketplace we’ve been talking about for years. Thanks to all who helped save the bridge worker Every day, firemen, police and emergency service personnel remain on call to do whatever is necessary to help those in distress. Last week in this column, I wrote about the hundreds of emergency personnel who answered the call when terrorists attacked the World Trade Center in New York Sept. 11, 2001. Firefighters, police officers and others were called to the site with one thing in mind – to do whatever was necessary to help those trapped inside a burning building. Aug. 31, local emergency crews moved quickly when a bridge worker fell into the Thornapple River at the construction site of the Michigan Avenue bridge. According to authorities, construction worker Miguel Ramirez was standing in the river, painting the bridge, when he stepped backward and fell into a deep hole. Within seconds, the hip boots he was wearing filled with water, preventing Ramirez from getting up, and sweeping him away. Rescue crews were notified, and within minutes, found Ramirez approximately 100 feet downstream. They pulled him from the river and began life-saving measures. According to officials, emergency personnel worked on Ramirez for nearly 20 minutes before he was airlifted to Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo. The quick action of local emergency personnel saved Ramirez’s life. With little or no apprehension, emergency workers acted instinctively, doing what was necessary to save Ramirez’s life. Due to the efforts of so many dedicated emergency personnel, Ramirez is home with his family. Congratulations to everyone who played a role in a dramatic and successful rescue. Fred Jacobs, vice president J-Ad Graphics �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 20, 2012 — Page 5 IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV Take steps to prevent suicide To the editor: Sadly, suicide is a very real concern across our country and in our community. The good news — the hopeful news — is that suicide is preventable and everyone can do something to help. September is designated at National Suicide Prevention Month. Here in Barry County, suicide prevention initiatives are currently underway to help increase awareness. Many dedicated professionals in Barry County are working together to help all county residents know about suicide prevention and resources. Suicide Prevention Lifeline cards and posters are currently available at many public libraries, doctor’s offices, pharmacies and helping agencies. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available to everyone 24 hours per day, seven days a week by calling toll-free 800-273TALK (8255). Their website is www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org. If you or someone you love is at risk of suicide, please take the appropriate actions. Get help immediately by calling local mental health professionals at Barry County Community Mental Health Authority at 269948-8041 or by calling 800-273-8255. If it’s an emergency, such as a threat of suicide, call 911. Talk to someone. You are not alone. Be aware of the facts. Suicide is preventable. Most suicidal individuals desperately want to live; they are just unable to see alternatives to their problems. Suicide occurs across all age groups, social groups, economic-status groups, genders and ethnicities. Learn the warning signs of suicide risk. Learn how to help someone who is hurting. Learn what to do. Visit www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org t o learn more. Please join us this month, and beyond, in learning more about suicide prevention. We all can do something to help one another. Jan McLean, member, Barry Community Resource Network Suicide Awareness Initiative Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. State News Roundup Binder Park Zoo announces new president and CEO The Board of Directors of Binder Park Zoo announced the hiring of Diane Thompson as the zoo’s new president and chief executive officer. Thompson was originally hired as the zoo’s interim CEO in April. “Diane’s leadership and community outreach over the last several months have demonstrated to us, the zoo’s board of directors, that she is more than capable of leading this great community asset,” said Ed Burnham, board chair of Binder Park Zoo. “We look forward to moving the Zoo into the next phase with her and all of the Zoo staff, and continuing to make the community proud of their zoo.” Thompson was previously president and CEO of The Miller Foundation in Battle Creek, after also holding the position of treasurer and CFO there. generated 16 percent of their revenue from new products or services introduced in the last three years,” said Jeff Mengel, a Plante Moran partner who specializes in manufacturing and distribution and led the IQ survey report team. “Those who achieve superstar status have innovation-hungry cultures we can all learn from.” Innovators were categorized as accidental, disciplined, top or superstar types. This year’s survey asked specific questions of financial, manufacturing, government, education and not-for-profit institutions. Readers of the report can put these statistical findings in perspective by comparing their own innovation experience with the real-life stories of others in their industry. To see the complete survey results, go to www.innovationquotientsurvey.com. A webinar on the survey results is scheduled for Friday, Sept. 21. Indoor smoking ban did not hurt study finds Survey reveals traits business, Michigan’s ban on smoking in bars and restaurants has not had a significant impact on of four different sales at Michigan bars and restaurants, according to a study commissioned by the innovative cultures Michigan Department of Community Health. The Dr. Ron Davis Smoke-Free Air Law went Organizations that make a deliberate choice to build and nourish innovation can earn a significant payoff for their efforts. This conclusion is among the results of the second annual Innovation Quotient survey released Sept. 17 by the public accounting and consulting firm Plante Moran and the executive education and innovation training institute NewNorth Center. Numerous studies have shown the connection between innovation and revenue growth. The IQ survey report goes one step farther and turns the results of the 2012 survey of more than 550 innovators into a guide for the leaders of businesses, not-for-profits and public-sector organizations. The report identifies four tiers of innovators who demonstrate how organizations can move up the innovation ladder and improve their financial results by adopting the proven practices. “On average, survey respondents said they into effect May 1, 2010. The MDCH released a study Monday analyzing the economic effects of the ban. The study, completed by Professor Helen Levy, Ph.D. from the University of Michigan Institute for Social Research, compiled data from the Michigan Department of Treasury based on bar and restaurant sales, as well as Keno sales. Dr. Levy evaluated data over a five-year period (from 2006 to 2011). The data shows there had been a drop-off in revenue in the two years leading up to the ban, but revenue recovered in the following 13 months. The study found no overall significant impact on spending statewide, but there have been establishments that have reported being adversely affected by the ban. Statewide, cigarette tax collection continues to trend downward. “We commend Michigan bars and restaurants for their support in transitioning to a smoke-free environment, as this law has also drastically improved the air quality in these establishments,” said James K. Haveman, Director of the MDCH. “There is no question that Michiganders have a healthier environment because of this important piece of legislation.” For more information about the Dr. Ron Davis Smoke-Free Air Law, visit www.michigan.gov/smokefreelaw. Nearly one-third of operators ticket in four-state enforcement Motor carrier officers from the Michigan State Police, Ohio State Highway Patrol, Indiana State Police and Kentucky State Police are reporting they performed 3,643 traffic stops Aug. 21 to 23, during a three-day commercial motor vehicle enforcement operation focused on major interstate highways in the four-state region. In all, 255 patrol units focused their enforcement efforts on ensuring safe transportation of hazardous materials, as well as driver behavior and defective equipment. Their efforts resulted in 1,392 citations for various commercial vehicle equipment and driver violations, including speeding, following too closely, excessive weight, hazardous material and hours of service violations. Additionally, officers conducted 3,511 vehicle and driver inspections, resulting in 437 vehicles and 133 drivers being immediately placed out of service due to serious safety issues. Of the total inspections conducted, 1,684 were on vehicles and drivers transporting hazardous materials. Officers identified 922 safety violations relating to the operation of hazardous materials. “Participation in these multi-state enforcement operations contributes to the synergistic working relationship that exists among state police agencies in the Midwestern region,” said Capt. Harold Love, commander of the Michigan State Police Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division. “The operations are vital to enhancing traffic safety by encouraging compliance with federal rules and regulations by commercial vehicle owners and operators through enforcement.” 269-967-8241 06790990 Know Your Legislators: In Loving Memory of 06791634 Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov TWO BROTHERS AND A TENT U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. Tables and chairs available. For All Your Tent Rental Needs September 16th, 1988 ~ August 10th, 2008 If anyone were to ever ask what we miss most about you Nolan, the answer would be, “everything”. Everything, every day, all the time. I wish I could hold you again because I would never let you go. God speed little man, sweet dreams. Mom, Dad, Newell, Keith, the Heath and Gillons Families & Ruby, too ❤ 06791802 Call: Dan McKinney 269-838-7057 or Tom McKinney 269-838-3842 NOLAN HEATH U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. 77571129 77566915 ® think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website, www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. Last week’s question: Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette is attempting to block plans for an American Indian casino in downtown Lansing that backers say would create jobs and improve the city. Do you think, Michigan has too many casinos? 46% 54% Yes No PATSY (HILL) CHAMBERLAIN 3/14/1930 ~ 7/24/2012 For this week: ArtPrize, the world’s largest art competition, opened yesterday in Grand Rapids with several Barry County people part of the 1,500 artists from 45 states and 56 countries who will be displaying. Do you plan to attend? q q YES NO 77564841 What do you FROM The These are words we know Pat would express if she possibly could. Since she is unable, she requested that her family be her voice. We only wish we could adequately explain how your love and support meant the world to us. “Thank You” sounds hollow compared to each and every one of you with such huge hearts. We ache so deeply to have her with us; yet, God’s Plan was incredibly bigger and greater. Patsy is now truly Home in the spirit of God’s Grace and Loving arms. Every single gesture of thoughtfulness you all shared with us illuminated Patsy’s life, which she dedicated to loving and caring for others. You will always be remembered and individually appreciated for your kindness. God Bless You. We are confident that Pat is whispering words of love and gratitude to all that cared. Bob, Lynne, Tom, Melissa & Brooklynne �Page 6 — Thursday, September 20, 2012 — The Hastings Banner GET ALL THE LOCAL NEWS! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. Area Obituaries John B. Baum III Worship Together… Rebecca “Beckie” R. Reed Melody LaGretta (Hussey) King 77571015 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Rev. Ryan Wieland. Sundays - 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Service; Sunday School and Nursery available during both services (Summer Schedule - Adult Sunday School: 9 a.m., Worship & Children’s Programs 10 a.m.) Youth Group, Covenant Prayer, Choir, Chimes, Praise Band, Quilting Group, Community Breakfasts and more! Call the church office at (269) 721-8077 (M/W/F 9 a.m.-12 p.m.), e-mail office@mei.net or visit www.countrychapelumc.org <http://www.countrychapelumc.org/> for more information SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 . CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 8:45 a.m. Traditional Worship; 10 a.m. Refreshments; 10:45 a.m. Contemporary Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Youth Pastor Eric Gillespie. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. for children and youth, and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Junior and Senior High Youth Group 6:00 p.m. , and several adult small group opportunities. Wednesday Mid-Week Pioneers at 6:30 p.m.: Pioneer Club, 4 years through 5th grade. Adults: Marriage Enrichment class, Women’s Prayer Group and a Men’s Bible Study. Thursday: Senior Adult (50+) Bible Study at 10 a.m. and lunch at Wendy’s, 11:30 a.m. Third Thursday Brunch at 9:30 a.m. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Sunday, September 23 - Winter Hours Begin. Worship Service 8 and 10:45 a.m. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. September 23 - Quarterly Mission Ingathering for Living Waters; High School Youth Meeting after 2nd service; Men’s Alcoholics Anonymous 7 p.m. September 24 Adventurers Bible Study 7 p.m.; Spiritual AA 7:30 p.m. September 25 -Vision Team 7 p.m. September 26 - Spiritual AA 7:30 p.m.; Wordwatchers Bible Study 10 a.m. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 945-2645, fax 269945-2698. Pastor Amy Luckey. http://www.discover-grace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot.com. Friday - 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday - 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday 4 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Lauer Family Funeral Homes 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings Fiberglass Products 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 John B. Baum III, age 84, passed away peacefully Sunday, September 16, 2012 surrounded by his loving family. He was the son of the late Jack C. and Ann (Borosch) Baum. John was born on June 23, 1928 in Saginaw, MI. He graduated from Arthur Hills High School, Saginaw, in 1946 where he was President of his class. He attended the University of Michigan and graduated in 1950 with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. He was a Sigma Alpha Epsilon. John met the love of his life, Joan (Fast) Baum, at the University of Michigan and they were married in August 1950 at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Royal Oak, MI. He served in the Naval Reserve. John also obtained a degree from the Stonier Graduate School of Banking, Rutgers University, in 1973. John enjoyed a successful career as a banker. John was employed by Michigan National Corporation from 1964 to 1986 where he held the positions of Senior Vice President, MNBDetroit; President, MNB-Dearborn; Chairman, Michigan National Leasing Corporation; and Chairman, MNC Leasing Co. John moved his family from Royal Oak to Grand Rapids in 1977 upon his appointment as Senior Vice President & CEO, Michigan National Bank - Grand Rapids. John served as Chairman, MNB-Central and Chairman, Region II, Michigan National Corporation from 1985-1986. In 1987, John was appointed Chairman, Manufacturers National Bank of Grand Rapids, a position he held until he announced his retirement in 1990. Upon his appointment as the new chairman of the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce in 1986, John was quoted as saying that “as part of being a responsible banker, not only are you expected to, but if you are like me, you like to be involved in community organizations.” He viewed the position as “kind of like steering a ship” where he “could use his influence to give an extra push to some of the programs.” John was one of the founding innovative business leaders of the “The Right Place Program,” which is aimed at advancing the West Michigan economy through leading business retention, expansion and attraction efforts. John’s other civic positions included President of the Rotary Club of Grand Rapids in 1984 and Treasurer of the Kent County United Way. He was also a member of the Economic Club of Grand Rapids. John attended St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in downtown Grand Rapids and was a member of Cascade Hills Country Club. Following retirement, John and Joan spent their winters in Sarasota, FL where they resided in Palm-Aire and were members of Palm-Aire Country Club. In 1996, they moved from Grand Rapids Township to a cottage in Hastings, affectionately named “My Blue Heaven” by John. Here family enjoyed endless summer days of boating and summer nights’ bonfires. John lived his life in accordance with the advice he gave to his children, “To thine own self be true.” Surviving is his loving wife of 62 years and best friend, Joan; his three children, Susan Nelson (Jeffrey Nelson); John (Paulette) Baum; and Jeffry (Jacqueline) Baum; grandchildren Andrew and Stephanie Baum; Jessica, Jeffrey, Jillian and Jonathan Nelson; and Jeffry, Joseph and Jenna Baum. John found endless joy in his grandchildren as evidenced by his ever-present smile in all of his photos with the kids. His love and guidance will be missed. A memorial service will be celebrated at 1 p.m. on Saturday, September 22, 2012, at Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Hastings. Interment at Forest Lawn Cemetery; Saginaw, will be private. Memorial contributions can be made to the Church or Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org. Online condolences may be offered at www.metcalfandjonkhoff.com. The family is being served by Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Service, Grand Rapids, MI. www.metcalfandjonkhoff.com DELTON, MI - Rebbecca "Beckie" R. Reed, of Delton, passed away September 18, 2012. Beckie was born June 14, 1947 in Hastings, the daughter of James and Dorothy (Woods) Cool. A 1965 graduate of Thornapple Kellogg High School, Beckie was a loyal employee of Bradford White, retiring in 2010. Beckie was a very generous person, and would do anything and everything for her friends and family. Beckie loved to sew, often repairing garments, known as the "fix it lady", she enjoyed her flower garden, she was interested in genealogy, and she will long be remembered for her baked desserts; especially her rhubarb cake. On January 4, 1969, Beckie married Tom K. Reed and he preceded her in death on January 25, 1998. Beckie is survived by a son: Tom (Beckie) Reed; daughters: Tracie (Jamie) Farrah and Tara Reed (fiancee: Andrew Bascue); a brother: James Cool; sisters: Rose Mary Count (Ray James), Lory Biermacher; sisters and brothers-in-law: Sue and Arlen Leinaar and Jane and Dave Dewey; six grandchildren: Anthony, Adam and Ashton Farrah, MacKenzie Maupin, and Jacob and Ethan Reed; her godfather: Darrell Holben; special friend: Diane Homister; and several nieces and nephews. Beckie was also preceded in death by her parents and a brother: Rodney. Beckie's family will receive friends Sunday, September 23, from 5-8 p.m. at the Williams-Gores Funeral Home, Delton. A memorial service will be conducted, Monday, September 24, 2012 at 11 a.m. at Faith United Methodist Church, 503 S. Grove (M-43), Delton, Pastor Jeff Worden, officiating. Interment Prairie Home Cemetery. Memorial contributions to American Heart Association or a charity of your choice will be appreciated. Please visit www.williamsgoresfuneral.com to view Beckie's online guest book or to leave a condolence message for the family. Joyce M. Gates HASTINGS, MI - Joyce M. Gates, of Hastings, passed away September 16, 2012. Joyce was born May 12, 1943 in Battle Creek, the daughter of Marvin and Nancy (Carney) Morgan. Joyce enjoyed bowling, gardening, and doll making and painting, with oils and pastels, but most of all, she loved her family. Joyce was a former employee of Pyper Products and the Fort Custer State Home with the disabled, a job she truly enjoyed. On May 29, 1959, Joyce married Floyd Gates who survives. She is also survived by sons, Floyd (Tara) Gates Jr, and Michael Gates; a daughter, Anita (Johnny) Service; a brother, Marvin (Leslie) Morgan; a sister, Eloise A. (Carl) Worthington; seven grandchildren; two great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; a sister, Marybelle May; and a granddaughter, Sophia Gates. A funeral service for Joyce was conducted at Williams-Gores Funeral Home, Delton, Thursday, September 20, 2012, Pastor Marvin Morgan, officiating. Burial took place in Dowling Cemetery. Memorial contributions to Gateway to Heaven Ministries, 15 Lamura St., Battle Creek, MI 49037 will be appreciated. Please visit www.williamsgoresfuneral.com to view Joyce's online guest book or to leave a condolence message for the family. HASTINGS, MI - Melody LaGretta (Hussey) King, age 82, of Hastings passed away September 15, 2012 at Spectrum Hospital in Grand Rapids. She was born February 21, 1930 in Vermontville, the daughter of Charles and Geraldine (Hokanson) Hussey. Melody graduated from Charlotte High School in 1948. She raised five sons and was a housewife until 1972 when she and her husband, Ivan purchased the Music Center (which is now Kings Electronics and Appliance). Melody and Ivan sold their business to sons, Mike and Tim in 1994. Melody and Ivan enjoyed spending their winters in Cortez, Florida. Melody was very creative and had many hobbies and interests throughout her life. She enjoyed gardening, ceramic pottery, making jewelry and raised orchids, just to name a few. Melody and Ivan raised cows and chickens for a few years on their farm as well. She was preceded in death by her parents, Geraldine and Charles Hussey and son, Curtis. Melody is survived by her husband, Ivan King; sons: Tim (Jackie) King, Mike (Jeanne) King, Dan (Tammi) King and Brad King; 10 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. Memorial contributions may be made to Pennock Hospice, 1230 W. State St., Hastings, MI 49058. A private family funeral service was held on Thursday, September 20, 2012. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message for the family Roofsit will benefit children in Barry County The B-93 Roofsit for Kids kicks off Thursday, Sept. 20. Radio celebrities will climb onto the roof of Michigan Kenworth building at 76th Street and US-131 near Grand Rapids to raise money for programs that help with the prevention of child abuse and neglect in West Michigan. Funds raised through the roofsit help programs to support families by teaching parenting skills, providing safe sleeping environments for infants, teach how fragile babies are, and train mandated reporters to report on suspected child abuse and neglect. Locally, the Family Support Center of Barry County, formerly the Child Abuse Prevention Council, receives the donations designated for Barry County. Barry County residents will be on the phone bank Friday, Sept. 21, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Last year the Family Support Center received a gift of over $46,000 from the Roofsit due to Barry County residents who listen to B-93. For more information, call Karen Jousma, 269-945-5439. See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 20, 2012 — Page 7 Hastings school board approves winter tax levy Michelle Skedgell holds a mystery goody bag being sold by amateur auctioneer and Rotarian Brad Johnson, as Bob Nida and Mark Christensen (foreground) contemplate bidding. Hastings Rotary raises nearly $2,000 for new school fund by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Hastings Area Schools will levy 17.9262 mills during the winter tax collection, which will generate $2,964,798 in general fund revenue and $2,270,408 for the debt retirement. The Headlee Amendment limits the amount school districts can levy to 18 mills, which is rolled back each year unless the district approves an override. Board President Kevin Beck asked Hastings Area Schools business manager Tim Berlin, how much additional revenue the district would receive without an override. “I think it would be between $12,000 and $15,000 if we went back out and did have a Headlee override take us back to 18,” said Berlin. Beck asked if that was something the board should pursue. “We definitely want to think about it,” said Berlin. “I guess we’re going to kind of weigh it, whether we were going to go out for a bond in the future — eventually. We may and we may want to do both of those together, or see which fits us best. I think it is definitely something worth looking at, yes.” Hastings Superintendent Todd Geerlings said that over the summer, he had checked on revenues that could be generated by an override and said his figures showed approximately $12,700 in additional revenues. “That sounds about right,” said Berlin. Geerlings also told the board that he had amended the initial informal student count that he presented to the board during its work session last week. He said there had been an error in calculating full-time equivalent students, and once the numbers had been corrected, the district was only off by .7 students from the projected student population of 2,812 used when preparing the district’s 2012-13 budget. The official student count will be conducted Wednesday, Oct. 3. In other business, the board: • Accepted the personnel report that contained notification of the following: Recall from layoff — Nancy Hammond, Central and Southeastern elementary lunch paraprofessional. Appointments — Penny Austin, Northeastern Elementary crossing guard paraprofessional; Tiffany Blakely, middle school cross country coach; Mary Breckon, Northeastern Title I instructional assistant; Sabrina Dickerson, Northeastern and Star elementary lunch paraprofessional; William Hardy, substitute bus driver; Marianne Horner, Southeastern Title I instructional assistant; Logan Kerr, Star Elementary Title I instructional assistant; April Ludtke, Northeastern and Star lunch paraprofessional; Nancy Lundwall, Northeastern and Star lunch paraprofessional; Jonathan Meek, substitute bus driver; Ashley Miller, Central Title I instructional assistant; Megan Shoop, districtwide elementary art teacher; Jan Wells, Northeastern crossing guard paraprofessional. Transfers/reassignments — Karleen Birman, Central Title I paraprofessional; Joni Bosworth, middle school health care I paraprofessional; Sandra Chewning, high school health care I paraprofessional; Jodi Denny, Southeastern health care I paraprofessional; Nancy Jenks, Central and Southeastern lunch Jan Hartough, serving as an assistant to ‘auctioneer’ Brad Johnson, hands off a mystery item to the highest bidder, Mark Christensen. The Hastings Rotary Club raised $1,906 at its Monday luncheon meeting to begin a new fund at Hastings High School to provide clothing for students in need. Rotarians brought in surprise auction items that were bid on blindly by other Rotarians. “In 45 minutes, we had a ton of fun and raised a good amount of money that will go to a very good cause,” said Rotary member Tom Johnson. It was Johnson’s idea to help Hastings High School students with a fund that could be tapped when needed. Whether students are facing winter without a coat, just need a new shirt or need help paying for a set of dress clothes so they can participate in a sport, the new fund will be available. “Unfortunately, some of our students and their families are experiencing difficulties that prevent the students from having appropriate clothing and shoes to wear to school,” said Carl Schoessel, Rotary member and past Hastings school superintendent. “The fund started by the Hastings Rotary Club will help the Hastings High School staff members provide assistance in those situations so that our students aren’t embarrassed and can concentrate on their school work, instead of worrying about how they look and whether or not the clothes they are wearing allow them to ‘fit in.’” The new fund, the Hastings Area Schools Student Clothing Assistance Fund, was begun by the Hastings Rotary Club, but the hope is others in the community will also support this effort with their donations. “This was a very fun and easy way for us to provide some start-up funds for our community. We have a great group of members, and this was a fun project to work on,” said Michelle Skedgell, a Rotarian and one of the members of the committee that put this new project together. “We will continue to encourage our members to support this fund. We are soliciting some additional money to get the total to $2,012, as an acknowledgment of the year the fund was started, 2012 — anything to encourage more involvement.” The Hastings Area Schools Student Clothing Assistance Fund was created to help Hastings High School students succeed in school by providing basic clothing necessities. Clothing needs may include shoes, pants, tops, coats, uniforms, graduation gowns and any special clothing needed to participate in a school activity that helps students have a successful school experience. Teachers, administrators, the counselor, coaches or students will express the clothing need to the high school principal, Kevin Riggs, and he will oversee and document the use of the fund. Rotary is an organization of business and professional leaders united worldwide who provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations and help build goodwill and peace in the world. The Hastings Rotary Club has been in existence since 1920 and its members meet every Monday at noon at the Walldorff Brewpub and Bistro. For more information on the club, visit www.hastingsrotary.com. HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, Sept. 20: Pizza & Pages discusses Neal Shusterman’s “Unwind” – 3:45 to 5 p.m.; Movie Memories celebrates Cute Kiddies with “Little Lord Fauntleroy” – 5 to 8 p.m.; Friday, Sept. 21: Pre-School Story Time enjoys “Bears” – 10:30 to11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 22: American Girl Tea (pre-register ASAP) – 1 to 2:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 24: Computer Class takes on Advanced PowerPoint – 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 25: Toddler Story Time enjoys “Autumn” – 10:30 to 11 a.m.; Young Chess Tutoring Class – 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.; Open Chess Club – 6 to 8 p.m.; Genealogy Club – 6 to 8 p.m. Please call the Hastings Public Library for more information about any of the above, 269-945-4263. Marriage Licenses James Jeffery Vadeboncoeur, Middleville and Lindsey Marie Kersjes, Middleville. Kaleb Michael Stonehouse, Delton and Tiffany Ann Jarman, Delton. Wade Andrew Davis, Bellevue and Amanda Elizabeth Cory, Orlando, FL. Edward Gerald Weller II, Middleville and Nichole Marie Wickwire, Middleville. Steven James Hedges, Hastings and Rae Marie Scofield, Hastings. Thomas Daniel Newton, Hastings and Megan Adelina Lipstraw, Hastings. Matthew Brennan Clouse, Middleville and Carly Danae Weiden, Middleville. paraprofessional; Stephanie McWhinney, Southeastern Title I instructional assistant; Andrea Schmidt, middle school general paraprofessional; Karen Schoen, Southeastern, Star and middle school music teacher; Melinda Smalley, Central and Northeastern music teacher; Geraldine Thayer, middle school health care I paraprofessional. • Received notice of the following Resignations: Elyse Fox, Northeastern and Star Title I instructional assistant; Brenda Jerrils, food service worker general II; Sarah Micklatcher, Northeastern and Star lunch paraprofessional; Rebecca Shaver, Northeastern and Star lunch paraprofessional; Shanna Tietz, Northeastern health care I paraprofessional; and Cindy VanBelkum, middle school health care I paraprofessional. • Received notice of the following student teacher assignments: Teresa Barton from Miller College with Tina Bovee at Northeastern; Miles Warren from Western Michigan University with Kathy Longstreet at the high school; Kim Williamson from Central Michigan University with Julie Severns at Star; • Approved the Hastings High School handbook, which is available on the district’s website. • Accepted the following donations: An anonymous donation of $879 for the purchase of a portable PA system for the band program; $1,000 from Walmart of Hastings for each teacher at Southeastern Elementary for the purchase of classroom supplies; and, a refrigerator valued at $250 for the high school science department from Sethe and Tina Bovee. • Announced its next monthly work session will be at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 9, in the middle school multi-purpose room, 232 W. Grand St. and its next regular meeting will be at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 15, in the multipurpose room of Southeastern Elementary, 1300 S. East St. SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN Expert answers questions about identity theft, appeals and more What can I do to protect myself against identity theft? First, don’t carry your Social Security card in your wallet. Keep it at home with your other important papers. Second, avoid giving out your Social Security number. While many banks, schools, doctors, landlords and others will request your number, it is your decision whether to provide it. Ask if there is some other way to identify you in their records. To report identity theft, fraud or misuse of your Social Security number, the Federal Trade Commission, the nation’s consumer protection agency, recommends you: Place a fraud alert on your credit file by contacting one of the following companies (the company you contact is required to contact the other two, which will then place alerts on your reports): Equifax, 800-525-6285; Trans Union, 800-680-7289; or Experian, 1-888397-3742. Review your credit report for inquiries from companies you have not contacted, accounts you did not open, and debts on your accounts you cannot explain. Close any accounts you know, or believe, have been tampered with or opened fraudulently. File a report with your local police or the police in the community where the identity theft took place. File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission by calling 877-438-4338. I’m retired and the only income I have is from an individual retirement account. Are my IRA withdrawals considered “earnings?” Could they reduce my monthly Social Security benefits? No. We count only the wages you earn from a job or your net profit if you’re selfemployed. Non-work income such as annuities, investment income, interest, capital gains and other government benefits are not counted and will not affect your Social Security benefits. Most pensions will not affect your benefits, either. However, your benefit may be affected by a government pension from work on which you did not pay Social Security tax. For more information, visit our website, www.socialsecurity.gov, or call toll-free, 800-772-1213 (TTY 800-3250778). How do I earn coverage for Social Security? You earn Social Security credits, sometimes referred to as quarters of coverage, when you work and pay Social Security taxes. The credits are based on the amount of your earnings. In 2012, you receive one credit for each $1,130 of earnings, up to the maximum of four credits per year. Each year, the amount of earnings needed for a credit goes up slightly as average earnings levels increase. Generally, a person needs 40 credits to be eli- gible for retirement benefits. There are special rules for the selfemployed. Read more about self-employment and Social Security in our online publication, “If You Are Self Employed,” at http://socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10022.html. To learn the amount required for Social Security credits for prior years, see Quarter of Coverage at www.socialsecurity.gov/OACT/COLA/QC.ht ml. I was turned down for Supplemental Security Income; can I appeal the decision? If you disagree with a decision made on your claim, you can appeal it. The steps you can take are explained in Your Right To Question A Decision Made On Your Supplemental Security Income Claim, available online at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/11008.html. Also, you have the right to have a representative, such as an attorney, help you. More information is in Your Right To Representation, at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10075.html. Read these and other publications online at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs. What is the difference between the disability application and the disability report? Do I have to complete both? A disability application is a claim for benefits. To receive Social Security disability or Supplemental Security Income benefits, you must file a disability application. A disability report provides information about your current physical or mental condition. We need this to process your disability application. In all, to establish a claim, you need to submit a disability application, a disability report, and an authorization to release medical records. You can learn more and apply online at www.socialsecurity.gov/applyfordisability. I am applying for Extra Help with Medicare prescription drug costs. Can state agencies help with my Medicare costs? When you file your application for Extra Help with Medicare prescription drug costs, you also can start your application process for the Medicare Savings Programs — state programs that provide help with other Medicare costs. When you apply for Extra Help, Social Security will send information to your state unless you tell us not to on the application. Your state will contact you to help you apply for a Medicare Savings Program. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. Newborn Babies Orion Danny-James, born at Pennock Hospital on Sept. 5, 2012 at 5:31 p.m. to Kayleigh Jacobs and Josh Baker of Delton. Weighing 8 lbs., 8 ozs.; 20 inches long. ***** Kamden Leonard-Wilson, born at Pennock Hospital on Sept. 5, 2012 at 1 p.m. to Janae Ashley and Stephan Satterly of Woodland. Weighing 5 lbs., 8 ozs.; 19.5 inches long. ***** Lawrence Gauge, born at Pennock Hospital on Sept. 4, 2012 at 7:49 p.m. to Danielle Sibley and Raymond Ash-craft of Nashville. Weighing 8 lbs., 5 ozs.; 20 inches long. ***** Aiden Jeffrey, born at Pennock Hospital on Sept. 4, 2012 at 7:01 p.m. to April Bennett and Steven Tyrrell of Hastings. Weighing 6 lbs., 8 ozs.; 19 inches long. ***** Ray L. Girrbach Owner/Director 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 • 269-945-3252 Serving Hastings, Barry County and Surrounding Communities for 45 years •Traditional and Cremation Services •Pre-Planning Services •Large Parking Lot - Handicap Accessible •Serving All Faiths •Pre-arrangement Transfers Accepted Family Owned and Operated www.girrbachfuneralhome.net �Page 8 — Thursday, September 20, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa by Elaine Garlock Next weekend, the Lake Odessa depot complex will be host to the Lakewood alumni members for a first alumni event geared toward graduates of Lakewood High School following the 1961 merger of Lake Odessa and Woodland school districts. This was followed closely by the addition of Sunfield High School and the merging of Clarksville elementary and several rural districts. Tables will display Lakewood memorabilia. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday. Saturday is listed on our calendars as the first day of autumn. This must be the fall equinox which bring us equal number of hours of daylight and darkness. The evening has been getting noticeably shorter. If you go for a walk in the evening, you had best start soon after 7 p.m. in order to be home before the sun sets. Sunday, women of Central United Methodist Church will be observing UMW Sunday with women members taking more roles in the morning service, being greeters, ushers, providing refreshments, altar flowers and more. The Rev. Karen Sorden will deliver the morning sermon. Presentation of some awards also will take place early in the service. First Congregational Church is offering a public service to the community. The parish nurse will be having office hours each Wednesday from 9 a.m. to noon and will take blood pressure readings for all comers. The church also hosts the community food pantry, with food for those in need. This is a service of the Lakewood Ministerial Association. Tuesday, the Tri-River Museum group met with more than 30 present at Lowell. The round table listing of member activities shows the 20 Civil War veterans buried in their township cemetery. Others are serving meals to raise money to support their museums. Others have received notable collections from families. A colorful flyer to promote a recent volleyball game between Saginaw Valley State University and Michigan Tech had on its front cover a color photo of Laurel Mattson, daughter of Gary and Nancy Mattson. Inside, she was the first player listed, giving her name and high school, Lakewood High School. A Detroit publisher on a new catalog of historic publications featured on its front cover a photo of the Lake Odessa depot with snow covering the ground. Inside was a paragraph about the depot, which is included in a new book on Michigan depots. At the recent meeting of the board of directors of the local historical society, President John Waite announced the recent gift of a collection of snapshots and other souveniers from a former guard at the prisoner-of-war camp that came from a son in Chicago. This will be a great addition to the museum’s holdings. Have a Printing Need? We Have a Colorful Solution... Whether your printing needs are complex color brochures or simple black and white forms, let J-ad Graphics design, print and deliver quality printed materials you’ll be proud of. Complete design, printing and 1 • CO PIE OR OL PR IN TIN G N • I NT RI LP •Hastings Banner •Hastings Reminder •Sun & News •Lakewood News •Maple Valley News •Marshall Chronicle & Community Advisor •Battle Creek Shopper •Lowell Ledger & Buyers’ Guide NG Publishers of: *H *O igh ne Q Ch •C eck H ua o ou lit •F olor ut o o rP yF •C ldi Cop ur s n pe •B olla g & ies ho ilm cia t ls •C lack ing Lam to er vi in * Pro •P usto & W ce ati s las m ng hi : ce an Ru te tic d ss M Bin bbe Cop or i in e! ding r Sta es g* m ps bindery facilities in-house to handle all of your printing needs no matter how large or small. Call one of our Printing Specialists today! Phone (269) 945-9554 Fax (269) 945-5192 Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of EDWARD JONES Raise your ‘awareness’ of benefits of life insurance You may be unaware of it, but September is Life Insurance Awareness Month. And when you consider the lifetime of benefits you and your family may receive from life insurance, you might agree that a month isn’t too long to spend on this important part of your overall financial picture. Unfortunately, too many Americans are uninsured or under-insured. In fact, nearly a third of all consumers think they need more life insurance, according to the 2012 Insurance Barometer Study, published by the nonprofit LIFE Foundation and LIMRA, a research and consulting organization that specializes in insurance and financial services. And it appears that one of the main reasons so many people lack sufficient life insurance is their perception that they can’t afford it. Yet, the cost for basic term life insurance has fallen by about 50 percent over the past 10 years, according to the LIFE Foundation. The cost — financial, emotional and psychological — of not having adequate life insurance certainly outweighs the expense of carrying the proper coverage. You’ll hear about many things that are designed to “last a lifetime,” but in the case of life insurance, that expression is appropriate. Consider the various times in which you should look at the need for life insurance: • When you’re married — Many married couples assume they won’t need life insurance until they have children. But if you or your spouse died, would the surviving spouse’s income be sufficient to pay off the mortgage, or even the rent? How about credit card balances, car loans or student loans? • When you’re married…with young kids — Now, in addition to having to pay off the mortgage if anything should happen to you, your surviving spouse will have to find the money to educate your children — and that’s a big challenge, given the rapidly escalating expenses associated with college. But with sufficient life insurance in place, your spouse can deal with the high costs of higher education. Furthermore, if you have permanent life insurance, such as whole life or universal life, you have the potential to build cash value, which you may be able to tap to help pay for college — while you’re still alive. (Keep in mind, though, that using some of your cash value could lower your policy’s death benefit.) • When your children are grown — Even with your children grown and gone, you can benefit from life insurance. For example, if your spouse outlives you by a decade or more, will he or she have enough money to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle? • When you’re retired — Your need for life insurance doesn’t retire when you do. For one thing, you may be able to access the cash value of your permanent insurance to help meet your retirement expenses. (Keep in mind this may affect your death benefit.) And your policy’s death benefit could help your children or other heirs deal with estate taxes, if any exist. Furthermore, if you’d like to be able to pass on something to your children or grandchildren, life insurance may be an ideal vehicle, because the proceeds are typically income tax free and can avoid the time-consuming process of probate. Life Insurance Awareness Month only lasts 30 days — but, as we’ve seen, life insurance can offer a lifetime of benefits. So make sure you get the coverage you need. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 33.29 -1.10 AT&T 37.66 +0.04 BP PLC 42.87 +0.30 CMS Energy Corp 23.09 -0.19 Coca-Cola Co 38.62 +0.85 Eaton 47.65 +0.03 Family Dollar Stores 63.53 +0.46 Fifth Third Bancorp 15.64 +0.46 Flowserve CP 131.88 +0.27 Ford Motor Co. 10.42 +0.27 General Mills 39.31 +0.02 General Motors 24.43 +1.46 Intel Corp. 23.37 +0.03 Kellogg Co. 50.30 -0.13 McDonald’s Corp 93.08 +1.88 Pfizer Inc. 24.01 -0.16 Ralcorp 72.28 +0.08 Sears Holding 61.00 +4.44 Spartan Motors 5.29 +0.24 Spartan Stores 16.37 +0.23 Stryker 55.93 +1.93 TCF Financial 11.94 +0.40 Walmart Stores 73.95 -0.11 Gold $1771.30 +38.90 Silver $34.79 +$1.30 Dow Jones Average 13,564 +241 Volume on NYSE 591M -32 Past supervisor raises concerns over Rutland’s commercial tax base 1351 N. M-43 Hwy. P.O. Box 188 Hastings, MI 49058-0188 To contact one of our Printing Specialists Call: Financial FOCUS IG ES &D by David DeDecker Staff Writer In the public hearing portion of the Sept. 12 Rutland Charter Township board meeting, former township supervisor Bob Edwards discussed his concerns over the proposed urban services and economic development agreement between the township and the City of Hastings. Edwards said the agreement would allow the city to start taking chunks out of the township’s commercial tax base. He said he feels the price demanded of the township by the city is too high. “The city doesn’t want the residential portion of the township, but they do want the commercial portion for taxing purposes,” said Edwards. Township Supervisor Jim Carr said the agreement is meant to preserve the rural environment of the township and still encourage economic development, increasing the number of jobs and services, as well as the commercial tax base. He said the agreement does not encompass the entire commercial sector of the township but only the 6.79 acres proposed for a new hotel. Carr said the agreement, as it stands, offers a template for any more development agreements. Each project and piece of property will need to be considered and a new agreement approved by the township board before projects move forward. In a related matter, Carr discussed MDOT requirements for the proposed hotel site across from Milestones Child Development Center and proposed that a resolution be passed to clear the way for work to begin. He said there are seven items MDOT requires for work to begin and presented it to the board as Township Resolution 2012-155. “We have to do this by state law,” said Carr. “So they can put in driveways and other things along a state highway.” The resolution passed on a motion by Bill Hanshaw, a second by Brenda Bellmore, and a 6-0 board vote with one member absent. An Algonquin Lake dam project was provided by Patrick Sharpe of the Algonquin Lake Association who announced that work will be completed in three weeks. Sharpe suggested that, if there are residents who have questions about the project, they should contact the Barry County Drain Commissioner. A representative of PLM Lake and Land Management was also on hand to briefly discuss the proposed 2013 Algonquin Lake weed control treatment plan, which was said to vary only slightly from this year’s plan. The company representative said a granulated herbicide will be used at the inlet portion of the lake, instead of a liquid treatment. The granulated product will dilute slowly and stay in the area longer. The cost is still within budget and there is no increase from past years. PLM is also working within Michigan DEQ recommendations to investigate Algonquin Lake milfoil plants which may mutate and become more herbicide resistant. The PLM Algonquin Lake plan will be voted on at the October township meeting as scheduled. In related business, the board: • Approved Carr’s request for approval to spend an estimated $8,800 for the utility Master Plan for possible development over the next 15 to 20 years. The money will come out of the township’s engineering budget. The board approved the request 5-1. Treasurer Sandy Greenfield dissented. Township Trustee Robert Lee was absent. • Considered Carr’s request to hire a person to catch up on zoning. He said it would be three or four hours a week to catch up on zoning enforcement. • Voted to send the 2012 Tax Rate Request Report to commissioners as required by the Barry County Board of Commissioners by the end of September. • Heard Clerk Robin Hawthorne announce that there will be seven ballot proposals for the November election. A sample ballot will be available at the township hall after Sept. 22. Ballot proposals will also be posted on the township and state websites. • Discussed the issue of millage for township fire protection as brought up by Hawthorne. She and Greenfield said reducing the fire millage from 1.5 mills to 1 mill would still cover projected fire protection costs. The board discussed the issue and agreed they could not reduce the millage at this time, but would take a closer look at the idea next year. • Heard an information report from Robert Schirmer, M.D., medical director of the Barry Eaton District Health Department. Schirmer announced the BEDHD has people on staff to help individuals develop healthy behaviors and businesses develop policies to promote healthy employees. He also said Barry County smokes tobacco and drink alcohol more than most counties in the state, we are more overweight, and we have more car accidents. • Provided notice that the last day to pay property taxes without penalty was Friday, Sept. 14. The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Rutland Charter Township Board will be Wednesday, Oct. 10, at 7:30 p.m. GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! 77569443 Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 20, 2012 — Page 9 Grandma Remembers: The Big Old Kitchen Table, part III The Depression was the best thing that ever happened as far as I’m concerned. Everybody in my life was in the same circumstances, so we were very happy and healthy. But we would read in the papers of many moneyed men committing suicide. The bread lines and soup kitchens, however, were not in those dire conditions. It surely was true, I thought because Ferris “the all wise one” had said that’s what would happen. As a family, we went to church every Sunday. Papa was always the first one ready, and he would sit and wait for the rest of us to dress and be ready. Mother was always the last since she had preparations for a big Sunday dinner to arrange. We never knew who might come for her great Sunday meals – sometimes those kissing cousins and it might be someone stop by from the county poor house. Most often, we had Aunt Grace and Uncle Will Hyde either to our place or we would be to their place. When we went to their house, it was always a joy for me because they were always very special. I used them for my grandparents, since I never knew any of my own. They were such loving people and gave much love to me and to many others. I never knew Papa’s parents, they were deceased before my time. And Mother’s parents were still in England. I remember when Mother got the letter telling her that her mother had died, the letter was cream-colored with black edging, also the envelope was edged in black. That seemed to be the custom, so you knew before the letter was opened it was not good news. There wasn’t anything Mother could do to ease the grief, but she sang her well-loved hymns. I did not understand how she could sing at a time like that. But she said that gave her much comfort. One great place in our old kitchen was standing or sitting on the big old bread tin. It was a large round tin on the floor between two cabinets, one with the huge flour bin below that held 25 pounds of flour, a bread board that slid out to mix on or slice on and all the mixing and bread making was done at this cabinet. As little ones, we could stand on this tin, and when older, we sat in it, so that our faces were even with the top of the cabinet where all the bread was kneaded. It was fascinating to watch that dough take shape and stretch and stretch. At the same time, it was a great learning time since that was when Mother would recite all the verses, poems and even nonsense she could remember. She had a great memory. One of the poems she would recite was “Curfew must not ring tonight.” I could never sit through until it was completed because, you see, it was such a sad poem. I would go in the front room where I could still hear her and cry. The other cabinet had the enameled water pail with the dipper, and we were probably 2 or 3 when we could climb up on the bread tin and get our own drinks from the dipper. That bread tin always held those delicious homemade loaves of bread. Mondays were always wash day. Early, the soft water needed to be pumped from the cistern, nice soft rainwater. The pump was in the kitchen that had the hand pitcher pump over a sink with a wash basin and the old linen roller towels and a mirror over the sink so all of our “getting ready” was done at the kitchen sink – teeth, hands and face, hair, etc. The water pumped for washing was placed in the copper boiler on top of the wood range to heat to boiling for white clothes. This soft water was always pumped every morning to fill the reservoir on the end of the kitchen range; we always had nice warm soft water. Then after breakfast, the washing machine was filled with the hot water along with two tubs for rinse water. At first, we had the old push-and- Army band to give free concert in Charlotte The internationally acclaimed U.S. Army Jazz Ambassadors of Washington, D.C., will continue its long history of presenting free public performances when it appears at the Charlotte Performing Arts Center Wednesday, Oct. 17, at 7 p.m. As the premier touring big band for the United States Army, the Jazz Ambassadors travel thousands of miles each year throughout the nation and abroad, keeping the will of the American people behind the members of the armed forces and supporting diplomatic efforts around the world. Since its formation in 1969, the Jazz Ambassadors have appeared in all 50 states and throughout North America, Europe and Asia. The Jazz Ambassadors presents a diverse program of big band swing, Latin music, contemporary jazz, popular tunes, standards, Dixieland, and patriotic selections. Members of the Jazz Ambassadors are selected by highly competitive audition and represent some of the finest musical talent in America. More than three decades of touring have earned them the title, “The Musical Ambassadors of the Army.” For additional information about the Jazz Ambassadors’ performance in Charlotte, please contact Charlotte Performing Arts Center, 517-541-5690. To obtain up to four free tickets by mail, send a self-addressed stamped envelope with request to ATTN: U.S. Army Jazz Ambassadors Tickets, Friends of Charlotte Performing Arts Center, Charlotte Performing Arts Center, 378 State St., Charlotte, MI 48813. Fetching for a living Dr. E. Kirsten Peters My brown mutt and I went for a walk recently on an old railroad grade at the edge of a ghost town where we sometimes stroll. Buster Brown is a Lab mix, with an emphasis on the mix. Buster likes to visit the ghost town in part because it still has one occupied house, and friends of mine live there with their chickens, a cat and a dog. The resident dog is a small, insanely intense cattle dog mix. He dedicates his considerable energies to retrieving pine cones kicked along the road by willing walkers. While Buster is willing to retrieve sticks thrown into water, he won’t play that game for more than 10 minutes. But I can’t tire out his country friend, who will chase pine cones as long as you are willing to kick them. The little cattle dog has a deep and unshakable concentration for his selfassigned “work.” Humans have bred that kind of intensity into some dogs. And science is now revealing that along with focused energy, some dogs have more intelligence than we ever really understood. Here’s the story: A border collie in South Carolina named Chaser was adopted by a research psychologist after the man retired and had free time. John W. Pilley took Chaser home when she was 8 weeks of age and started intensive, five-hours-per-day training of the young pup. For three years, the dog worked with Pilley and a few others, learning a variety of commands and behaviors through the process of game-playing, with nothing more than verbal praise as a reward for a job well done. Only a border collie would love so much schooling, but Chaser flourished in her new life. What’s impressive is how much Pilley was ultimately able to teach the collie todo. Pilley acquired second-hand stuffed toys and went to work teaching Chaser to fetch individual toys by name. As the total number of toys Chaser knew edged into the hundreds, Pilley had to write their names on them with a marker so he could remember them all. In the end, Chaser learned over 1,000 proper names for the toys and could reliably fetch them from another room or a different part of the yard and bring them back to Pilley. She also learned what you could term “group names.” For example, some of the toys were Frisbees, and some were cloth disks you throw in the same way. Chaser learned specific names for such toys, but also the general category “Frisbee.” This means she will fetch a Frisbee — whatever one may be available — if you ask her for a “Frisbee.” But she’ll also bring you one particular disk-toy if you ask for it by its specific name. What’s even more impressive is how Chaser responds to situations that might overwhelm a 4-year-old human. Let’s say you put a new toy among the ones Chaser knows — a toy she has never seen before. Then you ask her to fetch and give her a specific name she’s never heard before. Chaser goes to her toys, looks them all over, and apparently thinks pretty deeply about her work. She then selects the toy she’s never seen and doesn’t know. This is called “learning by exclusion” and is the mark of some serious thinking in her furry noggin. It’s not clear that border collies really need to be so smart. The commands they follow for a shepherd rounding up sheep are not so complex as learning by exclusion, nor do the collies need to know thousands of individual sheep names. But, somehow, it seems that in the process of breeding border collies for their indefatigable willingness to work for us around the clock, we have created truly thinking canines. One thing seems clear. Chaser looks awfully smart to us not because she was a really special border collie pup, but because she fell into an extremely rich learning environment. Some would say my Buster Brown is not in the same mental league as Chaser. But if Buster could speak, he might point out he gets his kibbles every day just like she does, and without slavish devotion to tiring work. Which canine really is the smarter dog? Dr. E. Kirsten Peters, a native of the rural Northwest, was trained as a geologist at Princeton and Harvard universities. Follow her online at rockdoc.wsu.edu and on Twitter @RockDocWSU. This column is a service of the College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences at Washington State University. See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits Animal Shelter Director Licensed / Insured / Local Call Scott 517-290-5556 • 877-448-1548 FREE Consultation & Estimates! ALSO EGRESS WINDOWS / MOLD REMEDIATION City of Hastings POSITION AVAILABLE: UTILITY SUPERINTENDENT The Utility Superintendent oversees the operation and maintenance of the City’s wastewater treatment plant and sewage collection system and the water filtration treatment plant and water distribution system. Michigan Department of Environmental Quality license certification as a Class B wastewater operator, a Class D-2 license certification in limited treatment, and a Class S-2 license certification in water distribution is required. Five years managerial experience is preferred. Excellent computer skills, the ability to communicate verbally and in writing, and commitment to a team approach are required. Salary range $43,346 to $57,794. Complete job description available on request from City of Hastings, 201 E. State St., Hastings, Michigan 49058, 269.945.2468. To apply submit letter of interest and resume by 4:00 PM, October 12, 2012. Tim Girrbach Director of Public Services 77571096 This is the third part of a series of memories written by Dorothy (Lathrop) Kelsey of her childhood years in Barryville. Born in 1917, the youngest child of Egbert H. Lathrop and Rhoda Boone, Dorothy now resides at Thornapple Manor. She wrote “Grandma Remembers: The Big Old Kitchen Table” written in 2001. ***** Of our three horses, one was my favorite, old Flory. The bigger horses were Bill and Bess. But Flory was old and slow and so gentle she would never think of stepping on us or hurting us in any way. Ferris and I could ride her up the road, but if a car came along, we had to turn her around so she could face it. She wasn’t too familiar with that racket behind her. As long as she could see it, everything was okay. Ferris and I rode Flory to piano lessons. We had a rather difficult time keeping a teacher. First, one got polio, the second one was married and moved away and the third one Ferris gave up but I took another summer but never got out of the first book. One time Ferris and I were riding Flory around the backyard and we rode past the kitchen window. As I was waving to Mother in the window, Ferris ducked down and drove under a limb on the big maple tree and the limb hit me square. I slipped over the back of the horse and sat on the ground, kerplunk. I didn’t think it was funny and don’t yet to this day, but Ferris laughed his head off. One chore that I dreaded, and it was usually a Saturday, was churning butter. Our churn was a tall crock, about 25 inches high with a cover with a hole in the middle where the dasher came up through. The dasher was like a broomstick, but had cross pieces fastened to the bottom. Mother would pour about three cream crocks full of pure cream in the churn, and we would work the dasher up and down to whip the cream into butter. A tedious and monotonous job, but when butter came, it was such a feeling of accomplishment, it was almost joy. Mother then would skim out the butter, work it and work it in the big old butter bowl with the butter ladle to work all the buttermilk out of it, and when she had salted it, she would make pretty mounds with designs with the ladle. No wonder the “kissing kousins” wanted Rhoda’s butter, they were beautiful. Mother made cottage cheese a lot and that was an interesting process. One thing we had during the Depression was quite a few hobos. They were not bums; some were educated men t were scouting the country looking for work. We were not afraid of the most of them like we would be today. They would come to the door and ask if they could split some wood or do some chore for a meal. Mother always fed them, quite often French bread and syrup and some fruit. If they looked ruff and crude, she would make them sandwiches and send them on their way, but most of the time they came in and ate with us at the table. They traveled mostly on the trains. I remember one fellow in particular. Mother and I had been out picking raspberries all morning in the hot sun and when we got to the house here was this hobo at the kitchen door. Mother, I know, was tired and hot, but she fixed him some French toast of homemade bread and we washed some raspberries and that was our lunch. He thanked Mother so very much, and we had a great conversation with him. It was quite enlightening to hear where and what had been his life before the hard times struck. The Depression was the best thing that ever happened as far as I’m concerned. Everybody in my life was in the same circumstances, so we were very happy and healthy. But we would read in the papers of many moneyed men committing suicide. The bread lines and soup kitchens, however, were not in those dire conditions. One time we had have a bunch of gypsies come through. They were clever, while distracting you in the yard or house; others of the group would be in the chicken house stealing the chickens. They were fast talkers, prettily and colorfully dressed, lots of jewelry and very friendly. Papa thought some of the chickens were gone after they left. They came up through the orchard and probably got their bags full of apples. I don’t know. One thing about that orchard, Ferris and I would climb those trees, since they were easy to climb. For a long time, I never ate the seed of an apple or if I happened to by mistake I worried for fear a tree would grow inside me. pull agitator machine then in the later 1920s, we were fortunate to get a Sears and Roebuck gasoline-powered machine that was a “Godsend.” It had its own wringer that swung around so you could wring from the suds to both rinse waters. The last rinse water always had bluing in it to make the white clothes look whiter. One job I always liked to do was make the starch. Everything you wanted to look nice and crisp you starched and ironed. In the winter, it was a cold, cold job to hang out the clothes on the line, but the taking them down after they had frozen stiff was fun and caused a lot of giggling. We always stood the long stiffened underwear up just to see how long it would stand by itself. Maybe that’s where my weird sense of humor started. Anyhow, it always was good for many laugh. Hanging the frozen damp clothes on lines high up in the kitchen always made the house cozy and nice smelling. Tuesday was ironing day. The kitchen range held all three flat irons, two big ones and a smaller one. They were very smooth on the bottom and needed to be changed often to be hot enough to iron. You needed two or three cloth holders on the handles to carry and guide them over the clothes, especially the starched and sprinkled garments that had been carefully rolled up. (To be continued) Barry County is seeking qualified candidates for Animal Shelter Director. Position duties include directing and administering the County’s Animal Shelter, including community relations & adoptions, marketing & fundraising, shelter & kennel operations, staff & volunteer recruitment and management, budget & financial management and back-up animal control enforcement. For additional information including a copy of the position description and to apply, please visit www.barrycounty.org or contact Barry County Administration, 220 W. State St., Hastings, MI 49058, (269) 945-1284. Posting Date: September 13, 2012 Application Deadline: October 13, 2012 77571009 77571133 LEAD MECHANIC The Barry County Road Commission has an opening for a full time lead mechanic position. A high school diploma or general education degree (GED) with 5 to 10 years experience is required. Applications can be picked up at the Barry County Road Commission office (phone 269-945-3449) at 1725 W. M-43 Hwy., Hastings, MI between 6:00 AM & 4:00 PM. A complete job description will be provided at the time of application. Applications will be accepted until October 5, 2012. Hourly wage will start at $19.59. The Barry County Road Commission is an Equal Opportunity Employer. �Page 10 — Thursday, September 20, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE TO CREDITORS Trust In the matter of RICHARD E. MCLAUGHLIN TRUST, DATED JANUARY 25, 2006. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, RICHARD E. MCLAUGHLIN, who lived at 1214 North Broadway, Hastings, Michigan 49058 died August 20, 2012 leaving a certain trust under the name of RICHARD E. MCLAUGHLIN TRUST, DATED JANUARY 25, 2006, wherein the decedent was the Settlor and PHYLLIS DEAN f/k/a PHYLLIS MCLAUGHLIN was named as the Successor Trustee serving at the time of or as a result of the decedents death. Creditors of the decedent and of the trust are notified that all claims against the decedent or against the trust will be forever barred unless presented to PHYLLIS DEAN f/k/a PHYLLIS MCLAUGHLIN the named Successor Trustee at 1378 NISSAKI, HASTINGS, MI 49508 within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: September 10, 2012 NATHAN E. TAGG 206 SOUTH BROADWAY HASTINGS, MI 49058 269/948-2900 PHYLLIS DEAN f/k/a PHYLLIS MCLAUGHLIN 1378 NISSAKI 77571093 HASTINGS, MICHIGAN 49058 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by John L. Buffinga, an unmarried man, original mortgagor(s), to Comerica Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated August 18, 1992, and recorded on August 24, 1992 in Liber 552 on Page 607, and assigned by mesne assignments to Wells Fargo Bank, NA as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Twenty-Four Thousand One Hundred FiftyTwo and 56/100 Dollars ($24,152.56). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on September 27, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at a point 1364.82 feet South of North 1/4 Post, Section 28, Town 1 North, Range 8 West, thence South 224.46 feet, thence West 400 feet, thence North 224.46 feet, thence East 400 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: August 30, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #392761F02 77570705 (08-30)(09-20) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Donald E Garrett and Autumn Garrett, Husband and Wife to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for Quicken Loans Inc. its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated September 22, 2006 and recorded September 26, 2006 in Instrument # 1170548 Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage was assigned to: Bank of America, N.A. successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, LP, by assignment dated June 21, 2012 and recorded July 2, 2012 in Instrument # 2012-001791 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fourteen Thousand Nine Hundred Thirteen Dollars and Eighteen Cents ($114,913.18) including interest 7.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on October 18, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Maple Grove, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land located in the North one-half of the South one-half of the Southeast one-quarter of Section 16, Town 2 North, Range 7 West, described as follows: beginning at a point on the East line of Section 16, which lies 983 feet North of the Southeast corner of said Section 16; thence South 88 degrees 23 minutes West 154 feet; thence South 323 feet parallel to the East section line; thence North 88 degrees 23 minutes East 154 feet; thence due North 323 feet to the place of beginning. Commonly known as 6810 Assyria Rd, Nashville MI 49073 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 9/20/2012 Bank of America, N.A. successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, LP, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-68444 (09-20)(10-11) 77571146 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-26176-DE Estate of DE ETTE BAKER. Date of birth: 10/06/1912. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, De Ette Baker, died 07/07/2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Jean Gallup, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 180 Ottawa Avenue NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 09/13/2012 Kent W. Mudie P18047 161 Ottawa Avenue NW, Suite 212 Grand Rapids, MI 49503 616-459-6168 Jean Gallup 5885 West Irving Road 77571099 Hastings, MI 49058 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Kirk Robert Reed and Candace Kay Reed, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated February 3, 2003, and recorded on February 11, 2003 in instrument 1097473, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Nationstar Mortgage LLC as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-Two Thousand Five Hundred Ninety and 56/100 Dollars ($162,590.56). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on October 11, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 92 and 93, Valley Park Shores No. 2, according to the recorded plat thereof in Liber 5 of Plats, on Page 62 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: September 13, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #092873F02 77570984 (09-13)(10-04) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Rosemary Ann Davis, a married woman and Joel C. Davis, as to homestead rights only, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 9, 2007, and recorded on August 20, 2007 in instrument 20070820-0001071, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Chemical Bank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eleven Thousand Five Hundred Thirty-Two and 08/100 Dollars ($111,532.08). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on October 4, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 11, Plat of Thornton Addition, Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats, Page 72. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: September 6, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #396291F03 77570733 (09-06)(09-27) STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF CALHOUN NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 2012-231 DE Estate of Hugh A. Averill. Date of birth: July 14, 1924. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Hugh A. Averill, died July 17, 2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Karen Westlake-Chase, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 161 E. Michigan Avenue, Battle Creek and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: September 12, 2012 Patrick S. Hirzel P23884 835 Golden Avenue Battle Creek, MI 49014 269-963-8484 Karen Westlake-Chase 235 Waupaka Drive Battle Creek, MI 49037 77571062 269-965-1932 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF A MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on June 23, 2008, by Daniel P. Buerge, a single man, as Mortgagor, given by him to First National Bank of America, whose address is 241 E. Saginaw Hwy., Suite 600, P.O. Box 980, East Lansing, Michigan 48826-0980, as Mortgagee, and recorded on June 27, 2008, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 20080627-0006666, which mortgage has been assigned to Rose Acceptance, Inc., on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of Forty-Two Thousand One Hundred Ninety-Seven and 33/100 Dollars ($42,197.33); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, October 25, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF HOPE, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: Lots 12 and 13 of Oakridge Shores, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 89, being a part of the Northeast fractional quarter of Section 19, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, Hope Township. Commonly known as: 322 Lakeside Drive, Delton, Michigan 49046. Tax parcel number: 08-07-240009-00. The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: September 19, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. ROSE ACCEPTANCE, INC. Benjamin J. Price of East Lansing, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933 (517) 371-8253 (09-20)(10-11) 77571111 FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Bernice Boocher and John E. Boocher, wife and husband to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for Countrywide Home Loans Inc. dba America's Wholesale Lender its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated May 18, 2007 and recorded July 10, 2007 in Instrument # 1182792 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, LP, by assignment dated February 21, 2012 and recorded March 1, 2012 in Instrument # 201203010002131 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-One Thousand Nine Hundred Fifty-Nine Dollars and Thirty-Two Cents ($91,959.32) including interest 7.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on September 27, 2012 Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 32 of Aben Johnson's First Addition to the City of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 46. Commonly known as 330 E Francis St, Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 8/30/2012 Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, LP, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our 77570689 File No: 12-67089 (08-30)(09-20) SYNOPSIS HOPE TOWNSHIP REGULAR BOARD MEETING SEPT. 10, 2012 5 Board members present 2 guests Regular meeting opened at 7pm Approved: Agenda Previous Minutes Standing Reports Bills Resolution 2012-19 Township Hall Policy Special Assessment Delinquencies Sell paper shredder SW Mich Land Conservancy request to name creek Trash Day advertising Hall rental refund Cemetery Plot refund Adjourned 8:15 p.m. Submitted by: Deborah Jackson, Clerk Attested to by 77571021 Patricia Albert, Supervisor STATE OF MICHIGAN 56B JUDICIAL DISTRICT JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY PROBATE 206 W. Court St., Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 945-1404 ORDER FOR SERVICE BY PUBLICATION/POSTING AND NOTICE OF ACTION CASE NO. 12-0899-SP GRAND BANK FOR SAVINGS, FSB Stephanie C. Kamykowski (P74223) Trott & Trott, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy., #200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 (248) 341-4772 v ROBIN L. ALLEN, a/k/a ROBIN PETERS All Occupants 10660 Maple Grove Rd. Nashville, MI 49073 TO: ROBIN L. ALLEN, a/k/a ROBIN PETERS IT IS ORDERED: 1. You are being sued in this court by the plaintiff to recover possession of property after Land Contract Forfeiture. You must file your answer or take other action permitted by law in this court at the court address above on or before 10/3/12 at 9:00 a.m. If you fail to do so, a default judgment may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint filed in this case. 2. A copy of this order shall be published once each week in Hastings Banner for three consecutive weeks, and proof of publication shall be filed in this court. 3. Rick E. Risk shall post a copy of this order in the courthouse, and at 10660 Maple Grove Rd., Nashville, MI 49073 and at The Dayton Tennessee City Court - 399 1st Avenue, Dayton, TN 37321 once a week for 3 weeks, and shall file proof of posting in this court. 4. A copy of this order shall be sent to Robin L. Allen, a/k/a Robin Peters at the last known address by registered mail, return receipt requested, before the date of the last publication, and the affidavit of mailing shall be filed with this court. Date: July 9, 2012 77571005 Judge Michael L. Schipper (P42154) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: James E. Richard and Tammy A. Richard, husband and wife to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Flagstar Bank, FSB, its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated April 30, 2008 and recorded May 8, 2008 in Instrument # 20080508-0004963 and modified by agreement recorded May 23, 2012 in Instrument # 2012-000475 Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage was assigned to: Flagstar Bank, FSB, by assignment dated September 30, 2011 and recorded October 13, 2011in Instrument # 201110130009587 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Five Thousand Sixty Dollars and Two Cents ($125,060.02) including interest 3.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on October 18, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Part of Lots 11 and 24 of Culberts Plat No. 3, and land adjacent to Culberts Plat No.3 in Section 33, Town 4 North, Range 8 West, Carlton Township, Barry County, Michigan, commencing at the North one fourth post of said Section 33, thence South 00 degrees 51 minutes West 501.87 feet (501.87 measured) thence North 88 degrees 51 minutes West 440 feet (North 88 degrees 55 minutes West 439.91 measured) thence South 00 degrees 51 minutes West 312.50 feet (312.72 measured) the South line of said Lot 24, thence North 88 degrees 51 minutes West 96.21 feet (96.40 measured) to the Southwest corner of said Lot 24, thence North 12 degrees 21 minutes West 238.55 feet (238.23 measured) to the Northwest corner of said Lot 24, thence North 24 degrees 40 minutes West 50.24 feet (North 24 degrees 38 minutes West 50.34 measured) along the Easterly line of said Lot 11, thence South 80 degrees 42 minutes West 185.65 feet (185.70 measured) to the Westerly line of said Lot 11, thence North 24 degrees 40 minutes West (North 24 degrees 36 minutes West measured) 71.79 feet to the Northwest corner of Lot 11, thence North 65 degrees 20 minutes East (North 65 degrees 16 minutes East measured) 9.90 feet thence South 88 degrees 51 minutes East (South 88 degrees 55 minutes East measured) 377.18 feet to the place of beginning, Barry County Records. Commonly known as 39 Culbert Dr, Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 9/20/2012 Flagstar Bank, FSB, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-68521 (09-20)(10-11) 77571141 Synopsis Hastings Charter Township Regular Meeting September 11, 2012 Meeting called to order at 7:00 pm Held at Charlton Park historic hall Pledge and roll call Seven board members present, 10 guests attended Public Comments Approved August minutes & Various dept. reports Treasurer’s report approved Supervisor – Equalization officer Audit report rec’d Utility locating services Election Committee Budget Revisions Library board repres. needed Emergency services assessment Approved payment of warrants Board member comments Public comment Approved motion to adjourn 8:37 pm Read full minutes on twp. website Respectfully submitted, Anita S. Mennell - Clerk Attested to by 77571116 Jim Brown – Supervisor FORECLOSURE NOTICE RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES, P.C. MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. Mortgage Sale - Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by Dennis J. Coughlin and Lucinda A. Coughlin, Husband and Wife to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., acting solely as nominee for Amerifirst Financial Corporation, Mortgagee, dated March 19, 2009, and recorded on March 25, 2009, as Document Number: 200903250002673, Barry County Records, said mortgage was assigned to Bank of America, N.A. by an Assignment of Mortgage dated April 23, 2012 and recorded May 08, 2012 by Document Number: 201205080005351, , on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Seventy-One Thousand Nine Hundred Five and 34/100 ($271,905.34) including interest at the rate of 5.00000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the Circuit Court in said Barry County, where the premises to be sold or some part of them are situated, at 01:00 PM on October 18, 2012 Said premises are situated in the Township of PRAIRIEVILLE, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A PARCEL OF LAND IN THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 26, TOWN 1 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST, DESCRIBED AS: BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE NORTH AND SOUTH QUARTER LINE OF SAID SECTION 26, DISTANCE SOUTH 00 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, 1582.46 FEET FROM THE NORTH QUARTER POST OF SAID SECTION 26; THENCE CONTINUING SOUTH 00 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST ALONG SAID NORTH AND SOUTH QUARTER LINE, 330.00 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 90 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST, AT RIGHT ANGLES TO SAID NORTH AND SOUTH QUARTER LINE, 660.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 63 DEGREES 40 MINUTES 33 SECONDS WEST, 493.85 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 90 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST, 660.00 FEET TO THE CENTER OF NORRIS ROAD; THENCE NORTH 19 DEGREES 05 MINUTES 53 SECONDS WEST ALONG SAID CENTERLINE OF NORRIS ROAD, 940.00 FEET TO A POINT WHICH LIES SOUTH 00 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, 805.2 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 90 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST, 2070.19 FEET FROM THE NORTH QUARTER POST OF SAID SECTION 26; THENCE NORTH 90 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, 660.0 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 43 DEGREES 59 MINUTES 05 SECONDS EAST, 1080.24 FEET; THENCE NORTH 90 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, 660.00 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. EXCEPT: A PARCEL OF LAND IN THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 26, TOWN 1 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST, DESCRIBED AS: BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE NORTH AND SOUTH QUARTER LINE OF SAID SECTION 26, DISTANT SOUTH 00 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, 1582.46 FEET FROM THE NORTH QUARTER POST OF SAID SECTION 26; THENCE CONTINUING SOUTH 00 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, ALONG SAID NORTH AND SOUTH QUARTER LINE, 330.00 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 90 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST AT RIGHT ANGLES TO SAID NORTH AND SOUTH QUARTER LINE, 660.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 00 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECODNS WEST, 330.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 90 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, 660.00 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. TOGETHER WITH AN EASEMENT NON-EXCLUSIVE FOR INGRESS AND EGRESS OF THE NORTH 66 FEET OF ABOVE DESCRIPTION. Commonly known as: 14604 LOCKSHORE ROAD If the property is eventually sold at foreclosure sale, the redemption period will be 6.00 months from the date of sale unless the property is abandoned or used for agricultural purposes. If the property is determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 and/or 600.3241a, the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of sale, or 15 days after statutory notice, whichever is later. If the property is presumed to be used for agricultural purposes prior to the date of the foreclosure sale pursuant to MCL 600.3240, the redemption period is 1 year. Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages are, if any, limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: September 20, 2012 Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Bank of America, N.A. 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302, (248) 335-9200 Case 77571136 No. 12MI02876-1 (09-20)(10-11) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 20, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by David R. Scott, an unmarried man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Amerifirst Financial Corporation its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated June 20, 2011, and recorded on July 1, 2011 in instrument 201107010006447, and rerecorded on August 8, 2011 in instrument 201108080007508, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eleven Thousand One Hundred Thirty-Six and 17/100 Dollars ($111,136.17). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on October 11, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Northeast corner of Section 1, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, thence Westerly along the North Section line 396.00 feet; thence South parallel to the East line of Section 220 feet; thence Easterly parallel to the North line of Section 396.00 feet to the East line of said Section; thence North on the East line 220 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: September 13, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #408609F01 77570977 (09-13)(10-04) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Cathleen S. Tibble, an unmarried woman, to Option One Mortgage Corporation, a California Corporation, Mortgagee, dated January 17, 2003 and recorded January 24, 2003 in Instrument Number 1096135, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Trustee for Option One Mortgage Loan Trust 2003-2, AssetBacked Certificates, Series 2003-2 by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Four Thousand Two Hundred Four and 24/100 Dollars ($94,204.24) including interest at 8.15% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 10/18/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: CR/A parcel of land in the Southeast 1/4 of Section 14, Town 4 North, Range 8 West, Described as: Commencing at the Southwest corner of the West 1/2 of the Northeast 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 14; thence North 166 feet; thence East 400 feet, more or less, to the Shore of the Lake; thence South to the South side of said Northeast 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4; thence West to the beginning, except the South 24 feet thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: September 20, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 356.4378 77571101 (09-20)(10-11) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Steven Hard, a married man and Patricia Hard, a married woman, to CitiMortgage, Inc., successor by merger with ABN Amro Mortgage Group, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 1, 2002 and recorded April 4, 2002 in Instrument Number 1077672, Barry County Records, Michigan. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Three Thousand Eight Hundred Fifty-Four and 80/100 Dollars ($93,854.80) including interest at 6.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 10/18/2012 Said premises are located in the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, described as follows: Lot 937 of the City, formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: September 20, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 671.3827 77571122 (09-20)(10-11) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF A MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on April 23, 1996, by David C. Wingeier and Nancy M. Wingeier, husband and wife, and Ronald D. Berg and Carolyn P. Berg, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, given by them to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on April 25, 1996, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Liber 658, Page 131, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank by an Assignment of Mortgage dated July 20, 2012, recorded on July 26, 2012, in Instrument Number 2012-002579, Barry County Records, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of Fifty-Two Thousand Six Hundred NinetyFour and 53/100 Dollars ($52,694.53); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, October 25, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF ORANGEVILLE, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: Commencing at the Southwest corner of the Northeast quarter of the Northeast quarter of Section 9, Town 2 North, Range 10 West, running thence Northerly 450 feet along the East one-eighth line of said Section 9; thence Easterly 10 feet at right angles; thence Northerly 232 feet parallel with said East one-eighth line for the true place of beginning; thence continuing Northerly 232 feet parallel with said East oneeighth line; thence Southeasterly to a point in the centerline of Lindsey Road which lies 779 feet Northeasterly from the intersection of said centerline and the North one-eighth line of said Section 9; thence Southwesterly 220 feet along the centerline; thence Northwesterly to the place of beginning, Orangeville Township, Barry County, Michigan. Commonly known as: 5180 Lindsey Road, Delton, Michigan 49046 Parcel Number: 08-11-009-013-75 The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: August 22, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933 (517) 371-8253 29293:00117:1414250-1 (09-20)(10-11) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Ronald W. Stasch and Gertrude A. Stasch, Husband and Wife as tenants by the entireties., to Greenfield Mortgage, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 13, 2003 and recorded September 5, 2003 in Instrument Number 1112574, and Assignment of mortgage recorded on06/14/07 Document No. 1181740, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by GMAC Mortgage, LLC successor by merger to GMAC Mortgage Corp. by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Six Thousand Four Hundred FortyOne and 98/100 Dollars ($66,441.98) including interest at 6.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 10/04/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 6 of Balm-Meer Plat according to the recorded plat thereof as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats on page 30, Section 33, Carlton Township, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: September 6, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 618.8419 77570883 (09-06)(09-27) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Charles W. Mead, a married man and Janice M. Mead, his wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated June 30, 2003 and recorded July 7, 2003 in Instrument Number 1108007, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Wells Fargo Bank, NA by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Five Thousand Nine Hundred Nine and 94/100 Dollars ($85,909.94) including interest at 5.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 10/04/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Beginning at a point on the East and West 1/4 line of Section 27, Town 4 North, Range 8 West, Carlton Township, Barry County, Michigan, Distant East 765 feet from the West 1/4 corner of said Section 27; thence East 220 feet along said 1/4 line; thence South 231 feet at right angles with said 1/4 line; thence West 220 feet; thence North 231 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: September 6, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 326.9682 77570878 (09-06)(09-27) 77571087 FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Stuart Buckley and Loretta Buckley, Husband and Wife to Member First Mortgage, LLC, Mortgagee, dated December 18, 2002 and recorded December 26, 2002 in Instrument # 1094438 Barry County Records, Michigan on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Fifty Thousand Seven Hundred Thirty-Two Dollars and Ninety-Four Cents ($50,732.94) including interest 6.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on September 27, 2012 Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The South one half of Lots 4 and 5, Block 10, Daniel Strikers Addition to the City, formerly village of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof in Liber 1 of Plats, page 11. Commonly known as 719 N. Hanover, Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 8/30/2012 Member First Mortgage, LLC Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-67461 (0877570694 30)(09-20) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded bay the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Robert A. Myers Jr, a single man aka Robert Myers, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 8, 2009, and recorded on January 16, 2009 in instrument 20090116-0000463, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Twenty-One Thousand Four Hundred Ninety-Eight and 26/100 Dollars ($221,498.26). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on October 11, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Castleton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That Part Of The West 1/2 Of The West 1/2 Of The Southeast 1/4 Of Section 20, Town 3 North, Range 7 West. Commencing At The South 1/4 Comer Of Said Section, Thence North 89 Degrees 37 Minutes 01 Seconds East Along The South Line Of Said Section 673.55 Feet To The East Line Of The West 1/2 Of The West 1/2 Of The Southeast 1/4 Of Said Section; Being The Centerline Of Barger Road; Thence North 00 Degrees 21 Minutes 40 Seconds East Along Said East Fine And Centerline 330.00 Feet To The Point Of Beginning Of This Description; Thence South 89 Degrees 37 Minutes 01 Seconds West, 717.25 Feet; Thence North 00 Degrees 21 Minutes 40 Seconds East 1940.98 Feet To Traverse Point No. 1 On A Random Traverse; Thence Continuing North 00 Degrees 21 Minutes 40 Seconds East To The Centerline Of Thomapple River; Thence East Along Said River’s Centerline To The East Line Of The West 1/2 Of The West 1/2 Of The Southeast 1/4 Of Said Section, Being The Centerline Of Barger Road; Thence South 00 Degrees 21 Minutes 40 Seconds West Along Said East Line And The Centerline Of Barger Road 66.64 Feet To Traverse Point No. 7 On Said Random Traverse, Thence Continuing South 00 Degrees 21 Minutes 40 Seconds West Along Said East Line And Road Centerline 1925.96 Feet To The Point Of Beginning. Said Random Traverse Being Described As: Beginning At Traverse Point No. 1 Being On The Southerly Bank Of Tahoma River; Thence South 47 Degrees 30 Minutes 23 Seconds East Along Said Bank 237.59 Feet To Traverse Point No. 2; Thence South 88 Degrees 09 Minutes 45 Seconds East Along Said Bank 70.35 Feet To Traverse Point No. 3; Thence North 76 Degrees 18 Minutes 42 Seconds East Along Said Bank 272.05 Feet To Traverse Point No. 4; Thence South 74 Degrees 05 Minutes 32 Seconds East Along Said Bank 76.62 Feet To Traverse Point No. 5; Thence North 42 Degrees 37 Minutes 08 Seconds East Along Said Bank 148.61 Feet To Traverse Point No. 6; Thence South 89 Degrees 38 Minutes 20 Seconds East 33.00 Feet To Hs Point Of Ending At Traverse Point. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: September 13, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #409473F01 (09-13)(10-04) 77570940 THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. MORTGAGE SALE—Default has been made in the conditions of a Mortgage made by TIMOTHY LEE COLBURN AND JEANETTE ELLEN NORRIS, a single man and a single woman, Mortgagors, to NPB MORTGAGE, LLC, Mortgagee, dated September 13, 2005, and recorded September 19, 2005, Instrument Number 1153020, of Barry County Records, Michigan, which mortgage has been assigned by mesne assignments to First National Acceptance Company, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due as of the date of this notice $76,709.37, including interest at 12.95% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to the statutes of the State of Michigan, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public auction to the highest bidder, on Thursday, October 11, 2012, at 1 o’clock in the afternoon, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, Michigan. Said premises are situated in the Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 16 of Sundago Park, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, Page 71, Barry County Records; c/k/a 82 Sundago Park, Hastings, MI 49058 The redemption period shall be six months from the date of the sale, unless the premises are determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days. Please be advised that if the mortgaged property is sold at a foreclosure sale by advertisement, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 you will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale, or to the mortgage holder, for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: September 13, 2012 LeVasseur Dyer & Associates, PC Attorneys for Mortgagee Assignee P.O. Box 721400 Berkley, MI 48072 (248) 586-1200 (0913)(10-04) 77571000 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Richard J. Meade and Shawnda L. Meade, husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated September 26, 2006 and recorded October 2, 2006 in Instrument Number 1170796, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by The Bank of New York Mellon f/k/a The Bank of New York as successor trustee for JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Trustee for the benefit of the Certificate holders of Popular ABS, Inc. Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates Series 2006-E by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fifty-Five Thousand Eight Hundred Thirty-Two and 14/100 Dollars ($155,832.14) including interest at 8.38% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 10/18/2012 Said premises are located in the Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That certain parcel of land situated in the Village of Nashville, Castleton Township, Barry County, Michigan, more particularly described as: A parcel of land in the Northwest 1/4 and the Northeast 1/4 of Section 36, Town 3 North, Range 7 West, Village of Nashville, Castleton Township, Barry County, Michigan, the surveyed boundary of said parcel described as: Commencing at the intersection of the East line of Lentz Street and the North line of Reed Street; thence East along said North line 255.00 feet to the point of beginning of this description; thence North perpendicular to said North line 168.15 feet to a point on an intermediate traverse line, said point being South 18 feet more or less from the water's edge of the Thornapple River; thence N64ø34'49"E along said intermediate traverse line 108.73 feet to a point South 23 feet more or less from said waters edge; thence South perpendicular to said North line 41.46 feet; thence East parallel with said North line 3.80 feet; thence South perpendicular to said North line 173.36 feet; thence West 102.00 feet to the point of beginning; including lands lying between the intermediate traverse line and the water's edge of the Thornapple River. Together with a non-exclusive easement for the purposes of ingress and egress over a parcel described as: Commencing at the intersection of the North line of Reed Street with the East line of Lentz Street in the Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan; thence East 357 feet for a place of beginning; thence North 180 feet; thence East 20 feet; thence South 180 feet; thence West 20 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: September 20, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 189.4797 77571106 (09-20)(10-11) �Page 12 — Thursday, September 20, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Horses, cats seized from Nashville residence Marl Steinbach has been charged with animal cruelty. Seven horses and 17 cats and kittens were seized from a Castleton Township road home. COURT NEWS Paul William-Loy Vaughn, 25, of Hastings was sentenced Sept. 10 for receiving and concealing stolen property $1,000 to $20,000 and conspiring to receive and conceal stolen property $1,000 to $20,000. Vaughn was ordered to serve 12 months in jail, with credit for 153 days served. He must pay $18,743 in costs and restitution. Restitution will be paid by Vaughn and three other conspirators. He must serve 60 months on probation. The balance of his jail time will be suspended upon payment of $750. Charges of breaking and entering with intent; larceny of a building; and habitual offender, second offense, were dropped. A Morgan Road resident was arrested Wednesday and her animals seized, after an investigation by the Barry County Sheriff’s Department. According to a press release issued Sept. 13, the department Aug. 22 began investigating possible animal abuse or neglect at the home of Marl Steinbach, 64. Upon completion of the investigation, a search warrant was served Steinbach, and seven horses and 17 cats or kittens were seized. She was arrested for animal cruelty Sept. 12, and arraigned and given a $1,000 bond. No further information was available. Former Hastings Banner CLASSIFIEDS trooper receives CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 bravery award Estate Sale For Sale Community Notices ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 Antiques ELIMINATE HIGH HEATING BILLS- Reduce your carbon footprint. Central Boiler CLASSIC OUTDOOR WOOD FURNACE. Buy NOW & save up to $350. Call SOS your “Stocking Dealer” Dutton, MI (616)5548669, (616)915-5061. TOTS FALL ALMOST NEW SALE: October 6th, 2012, 9am-1pm, Cherry Creek Elementary, 12675 Foreman, Lowell. FREE to shop FREE to sell! To reserve a spot call Lori @ TOTS 616-987-2532. ALLEGAN ANTIQUE MARKET: Sunday, September 30th. 400 exhibitors, rain or shine. 8:00am-4:00pm. Located at the fairgrounds right in Allegan, MI. $4.00 admission. NO PETS. For Rent MIDDLE LAKE RENTAL: 3BD apartment. All appliances included, washer, dryer, central air. 1st months rent plus security deposit. Call Joe (269)838-2650. Garage Sale DON’T’ MISS THIS SALE! Lots of clothes, girls size 68, mostly all Gap, some Old Navy. Boys clothes, all American Eagle, size small jeans, 29-30 and up. All great condition. Lots of boys and girls shoes! Household items, wooden swing set w/slide & swings, womens clothes. Everything in great condition! Friday, September 21st, 9am-3pm at 703 W. Madison, Hastings. MOVING SALE: 515 E. Clinton, Hastings. Nice collection of items, 2 households. September 22nd, 10:00am-? Jobs Wanted LOVING MOTHER OF one looking for children to care for. I am located near Algonquin Lake. Hours of operation are 6am-5:30pm. References available, please call Nikki at (269)838-7324. Help Wanted DRIVERS: Change Gears! Home Daily! Sign-On Bonus. Great Miles, Money, Hometime. CDL-A, 1yr exp. MTS: 800-748-0192 x208/x214 PART-TIME TRUCKER NEEDED, CDL-Class B minimum. Call Murray’s Asphalt (269)841-3720. Recreation WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are interested in leasing acreage for this years deer season. Call (269)795-3049 DO YOU WANT QUALITY Business Services PRINTING at affordable prices? Call J-Ad Graphics at BASEMENT WATER(269)945-9554. PROOFING: PROFESSIONAL BASEMENT SERVICES waterproofing, crack repair, mold remediation. Local/licensed. Free estimates. (517)290-5556. PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 Automotive National Ads Card of Thanks THANK YOU Thornapple River Intertribal Indigenous People for Cultural Preservation dedicated to preserving our Walk In The Spirit Pow Wow keeping it locally controlled. I organized this as a nonprofit to attain those goals and help fund and provide volunteers to help set up and run our beloved Pow Wow. Special thanks to Mitch and Kim Tolan for advertising Tshirts and banner. I would like to give special heartfelt thanks to Paul Racine and family, Al Smith (White Bear), Eldon Shellenbarger for being there, I relied upon them heavily giving directions by cell phones. What a tremendous job they did. I thank the Great Spirit for them, thanks to all the volunteers whose names I never got and special thanks to all the positive comments from the spectators. Megwich (thank you), C.O.O. Richard G. Taylor, Jr. Bridge project has pieces of metal stolen “You’d better watch it.” All parties were interviewed by the deputy and the case was closed, because no one else had heard the comment, including lawyers. The incident was filed for documentation as requested by the complainant. Hastings Police were dispatched on Sept. 17 to an incident involving missing scrap metal. According to the complainant, the construction project on M-43 (N. Broadway) had accumulated a rather large quantity of needed scrap metals near Tyden Park. The scrap pile included some metal plates used for bridge repair and resurfacing, as well as other pieces. All of the scrap metal was reportedly missing. According to the complainant, about 2,000 to 3,000 pounds of scrap metal was missing, including two large steel threaded galvanized plates about six feet long-by-one foot wide. Anyone with information concerning this crime is asked to call Barry County Silent Observer or the Hastings Police. Truck is gate crasher near boat launch Safe grows legs and walks out during business hours Hastings City Police responded to a larceny report on Sept. 12 at a business on East State Street. Officers were told someone had walked out of the Smokey Mountain Tobacco Shop carrying a small safe. Employees told police a small safe (later found to have weighed 74 lbs) containing a small amount of cash along with credit card receipts, had been carried out the door while the store was open. Several people of interest are being questioned and the investigation in ongoing. Anyone with information concerning this incident is asked to call Barry County Silent Observer or the Hastings Police Department. Silent Observer offers cash rewards for information leading to convictions of responsible parties. This beer has a real kick Hastings Police responded Sept. 15 to the report of a man who had fallen down on the sidewalk. Officers responded to West Walnut Street and saw a man urinating on a front lawn who, after finishing his business, fell into a nearby flowerbed. The 38-yearold Hastings man needed a nearby tree to stand up. The man told police he was on his way home. He had walked past his address and, when asked how much alcohol he had consumed, he said he had only two beers. His portable breathalyzer test registered .40 percent, which is five times the legal limit. The Hastings man was arrested for disorderly person - public urination and was taken to the hospital for an evaluation due to his level of intoxication. RICK TAYLOR’S DETAIL WORKS. CLEANING CARS OVER 44 YEARS 8:00 TO 5:00, MONDAY TO SATURDAY. (269)948-0958 THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is deceptive, fraudulent or might otherwise violate law or accepted standards of taste. However, this publication does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the quality of goods or services advertised. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made in any advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you ask for money in advance of delivery of goods or services advertised. POLICE BEAT Scrap metal bounces over the fence Sgt. Dale Lynema At a special ceremony in Lansing Sept. 13, Michigan State Police Director Col. Kriste Kibbey Etue presented Sgt. Dale Lynema with the MSP Bravery Award for his diligence and perseverance under uncommon circumstances and for going beyond what is typically expected of most law enforcement officers. While serving the Hastings Post Oct. 13, 2010, Lynema responded to a call in Barry County as back-up for deputies who were on the scene with a suicidal individual armed with a shotgun and threatening residents in the area. Further information indicated the gunman was highly intoxicated or medicated. Once on scene, Lynema advised bystanders to take cover, before joining the deputies who were instructing the individual to put down his weapon. When the individual pointed his shotgun at the deputies and threatened to kill them, Lynema confronted the gunman. He then ordered the gunman a second time to put down his weapon, at which point the suspect shouldered his weapon and pointed it at Lynema. In a courageous act to protect his life and ensure the safety of others, Lynema fired his weapon, ending the threat. In presenting Lynema with the MSP Bravery Award, the department noted his selfless decision to place himself in harm’s way to protect the lives of others was an act of bravery and necessary to bring the incident to conclusion. Lynema enlisted with the department in 1994, graduating as a member of the 110th Trooper Recruit School. Currently at the Paw Paw Post, he also has served at the Cadillac and Wayland posts. Lynema is married and is the father of three children. Barry County Deputies responded to a reported larceny Sept. 1 on M-43 near Hastings. The caller said a 13-foot trampoline frame and 12 fence posts had been stolen from his property. He told deputies he suspected his 32-year-old neighbor whose children played on the trampoline before it was taken down and stored. Deputies tried to contact the neighbor for 12 days, but were unable to locate him. The property value is estimated at $210. The case is inactive. Alleged threats made in courtroom On Sept. 12, a deputy was working as court security during a personal protection order violation. As one of the parties was walking out of the court room he leaned over and allegedly said to the other party, Deputies were dispatched on Sept. 9 to the Prairieville Township Park-Gull Lake Access. The caller said a silver Ford Expedition towing a jet ski had run through the entrance gate and broke the gate arm in half. The witness said she was sitting in her vehicle while her husband was loading their boat on the trailer. She said the suspect vehicle tried to avoid paying and attempted to drive around the entrance gate, but didn’t fit, breaking the gate arm. The witness said two young males who were in the vehicle accelerated out of the parking lot while laughing. A license plate number was provided by two witnesses. Deputies attempted to make contact with the vehicle’s owner, but the 26-year-old Battle Creek man was no longer living at the listed address. The report has been turned over to the prosecutor’s office. Husband wants woman to make it right Deputies made contact with a woman at a Cedar Creek Road residence on Aug. 31 to take a domestic assault complaint. The woman told deputies the alleged assault had taken place at a Banfield Road residence and she had escaped her 41-year-old husband. She said she suspected her husband of having a sexual relationship with another woman and had not been talking to him. She was also sleeping in a separate bedroom. She was awakened at 1:15 a.m. by the man crawling on top of her in bed and telling her, “You’re going to make this right.” When she refused, he allegedly hit her several times. She told deputies the man smelled of alcohol. The woman said the man then shouted, “I’m going to get a gun and f@#%*^! shoot you.” The man then moved toward the closet where she knew he kept a gun. The woman located her daughter and left the house immediately. She said, once outside, she called 911. Deputies were unable to contact the husband by phone and proceeded to the Banfield Road residence. Upon arrival, deputies spoke with the man’s mother who lives next door and was on scene. The mother gave deputies a house key, so they could check inside the residence for the man. Three deputies entered the residence and encountered the man who was sleeping on the bed. He was told to get up and get dressed so deputies could speak to him. Deputies also reported the strong smell of intoxicants. The man denied hitting his wife, but said he did threaten to get a gun because he was frustrated by all their arguing. Reportedly, he did not answer deputies when they asked if he actually picked up a gun. He was arrested and the report forwarded to the prosecutor’s office for review. Man unknowingly ships computers to Georgia A man contacted the Barry County Sheriff’s office on Sept. 10 to report his identity had been stolen. He told deputies he received a bill stating he had purchased two Hewlett-Packard laptop computers for $1,299. According to him, he did not purchase the computers. Deputies learned the man had contacted Hewlett-Packard to investigate and was told the computers were shipped overnight on Aug. 28 to a Georgia address. The case remains open. GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 20, 2012 — Page 13 Mullenhurst crowns gold champions Champions of the Mullenhurst Golf Club Open Division are (from left) Chet VandenBerg who carded a 70, Barry Haas at 70, Bobby Fisher at 73, and Lon Sparks Jr. at 74 by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer New Hastings Area Schools vocal music director Matthew Callaghan, who is replacing Patti LaJoye who retired at the end of the 2011-12 school year, said he isn’t going to tamper with success. “I’ve been telling the kids my goal is to maintain the tradition of excellence of the choral music program,” said Callaghan, adding that he sees a lot of talent and potential in the students in the seventh and eighth grade choirs at the middle school and the Varsity Singers, Select Women’s Ensemble and concert choir at the high school. “As the years progress, we may add things, but there is already a legacy here and we want to maintain that legacy.” Parents, family, friends and members of the community are invited to attend the district’s first combined middle and high school concert Wednesday, Oct. 24. Callaghan said the concert will showcase the various styles of vocal music the students will be learning throughout the year, including madrigal, classical, folk and more. One tradition Callaghan plans honor is taking the choirs to the Michigan State Vocal Music Association festival in January or February and the Varsity Singers to the Heritage Music Festival in Chicago in the spring. Callaghan said it is refreshing to have a strong vocal music tradition on which to build. “Coming from Colorado, it is refreshing to see so much community involvement and support in the vocal music program,” he said. “Out there, music was not well-loved or welltaught. Music was not focus of a child’s education. Everything was sports, cowboys and football. It was difficult at first to get the boys to realize that it was okay for them to sing, that music wasn’t just for girls.” Callaghan said it was also difficult because the district where he taught had a large transient population because most of the families worked in for the oil or coal companies or the department of corrections. “Basically, we had to rebuild the music program from the ground up,” he said. “We were able to revitalize the program in the community and that allowed us to build a choral music program at the middle school which is now a fairly decent size.” ‘We,’ for Callaghan means he and his wife, Amanda, whom he met while they were both studying music at Grand Valley State University, where Callaghan earned a bachelor’s degree in music education. “My wife works in health care, but she donated a lot of time after school giving music lessons and helping to build the program,” said Matthew Callaghan Callaghan. “I have strong ally in Amanda.” Callaghan was born and raised in Saranac and his wife is from Howell. After three years in Colorado, the couple wanted to move back to Michigan so they could be closer to their families as they start one of their own. “After I heard the Hastings choir on YouTube and heard what a great program it was. I couldn’t turn down the opportunity,” said Callaghan. Like his predecessor, Patti LaJoye, Callaghan plans to take over the production the high school spring musical. But, don’t ask him what musical he is planning on staging this year — another tradition he plans to uphold is not revealing the name of the musical until it is officially announced in December. “We want to build anticipation and keep the kids in suspense as much as possible,” he said, smiling. “All I can say is that it will be family friendly. We want people to bring their children so those children get excited about music and want to be a part of it.” Callaghan said that while LaJoye’s longtime musical collaborator Todd Willard is onboard again this year, he is always looking for more help. “I don’t dance great or sew very well; so, if there are people out there who are interested in helping out in those or any other areas, they can contact me,” he said. “I am excited to be here, and the community has been very welcoming; I couldn’t have asked for a better reception,” said Callaghan. “And, I really can’t say enough about the LaJoyes for all their help and guidance as I settle in to this new position.” Call 269-945-9554 any time for Hastings Banner classified ads 77571030 Winners in the senior division of Saturday’s Mullenhurst Club Championship are (from left) Dave Geisbrecht and Wayne Lydy who each finished with 84s, one stroke behind division champion Jim Sprague, who took top honors with an 83. New Hastings vocal music director plans to continue tradition 77571033 The Low Net Division features winners (from left) are Ron Wymer, whose 83 went for a net 66; Mark Chamberlin, whose 86 carded out a 68; Jeff Davies, whose 81 was good for a 69; and Wallace Lee, whose 81 became a 71. The Hastings Banner Published by... 77571027 Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Bonnie Mattson 77571024 • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits �Page 14 — Thursday, September 20, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Hundreds give time and effort during annual Day of Caring More than 500 volunteers completed 2,000 hours of volunteer service during the Barry County United Way and Volunteer Center’s annual Day of Caring Thursday, Sept. 13, and Saturday, Sept. 15. “This year, in a show of support for our community businesses, churches and nonprofit organizations across Barry County reported to ‘work’ at an incredible 62 project locations with over 15 local nonprofit agencies,” said Volunteer Center Coordinator Morgan Johnson. “Through this event, Barry County residents have demonstrated their commitment to service in strengthening our community through volunteerism. “It is that desire for change — that want to help others — that unites our community as one. We all share the drive to help make a difference in Barry County and in the lives of those who live in it,” she said. “This is truly evident through everyone’s efforts to give back through volunteerism not only through Day of Caring, but every day.” Projects included cleaning headstones at a cemetery in the village of Nashville, cleaning cabins at the YMCA of Barry County, painting fire hydrants with the city of Hastings, trimming trails in the village of Middleville and washing vans for the Barry County Red Cross to name a few. “As the Barry County United Way kicks off the 2012-13 campaign, the volunteers of this year’s Day of Caring are showing how they are giving of their time today to help create positive change tomorrow,” said Johnson. Liz Lenz, Keith Murphy and Troy Dalman prepare lunch for volunteers. Dr. Carrie Wilgus and Deanna Wagner deliver popcorn to Thornapple Manor residents. Keith Murphy prepares hot dogs at Camp Algonquin for more than 100 volunteers. Battle Creek rerun a popular one for Saxon volleyballers For the second straight Saturday, the Hastings Saxons found themselves in at tournament at Battle Creek Central High School, this one the Battle Creek Central Invitational where, in pool play, Hastings recorded three wins and a tie. Last week, in the Cereal City Classic, the Saxons turned in a 2-2-1 finish. In their latest foray, Hastings took on host Battle Creek Central and came away with a 25-7, 25-23 first round win. Round 2 oppo- nent Marshall was then dispensed by 26-24, and 25-16. Coloma proved the day’s tougher opponent, standing the Saxons down to a draw on a 25-17 Coloma win after Hastings had taken the opening set, 25-17. First year Coach Val Slaughter’s team came back in the fourth and final round by downing Kalamazoo Hackett 25-23, 25-19. The effort placed the Saxons as the top seed in bracket play, where the team met Coloma for a second time. After winning the first set, 25-16, Hastings then lost the next two, by 30-28 and 15-13 scores. Leading the offensive attack for the day was Rachel Quillen with 15 kills and Grace Bosma with 12 kills. Erin Goggins led the team with assists with 27. Ally Owen had eight aces for the day. The Hastings defensive game was led by Nikki Redman with 17 digs and Bosma had eight blocks for the day. Paul Ballinger cleans a headstone at a cemetery in the village of Nashville. SAXON WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE HASTINGS SPORTS 2012 Athena Award SHORTS nominations being accepted Complete online schedule at: www.hassk12.org 5:00 pm Girls JV Volleyball Otsego HS Otsego JV Six Pack 6:45 pm Boys Varsity Soccer South Christian HS WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 3:45 pm Girls JV Golf Byron Center HS 4:00 pm Boys Varsity Tennis South Christian HS 4:15 pm Girls 7th B Volleyball Kraft Meadow 4:15 pm Girls 8th B Volleyball Kraft Meadow 4:30 pm Boys Varsity Cross Co. South Christian HS OK Gold Jam @ HHS 4:30 pm Girls Varsity Cross Co. South Christian HS OK Gold Jam @ HHS 5:30 pm Girls 8th A Volleyball Kraft Meadow 5:30 pm Girls 7th A volleyball Kraft Meadow THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 3:30 pm Girls JV Golf Kenowa Hills HS Kenowa Hills Inv. 3:45 pm Girls Varsity Golf South Christian HS OK Gold Jam @ Railside 4:00 pm Boys Varsity Tennis Postponed-TKHS 4:00 pm Boys JV Soccer Wayland Union HS 4:15 pm Boys Middle Cross Co. Lowell MS 4:15 pm Girls Middle Cross Co. Lowell MS 4:30 pm Boys Fresh. Football Ottawa Hills HS 5:00 pm Girls Fresh. Volleyball Ottawa Hills HS 5:45 pm Boys Varsity Soccer Wayland Union HS 6:00 pm Girls Varsity Swimming Wayland Union HS 6:00 pm Girls JV Volleyball Ottawa Hills HS 6:30 pm Boys JV Football Cedar Springs HS 6:00 pm girls Varsity Volleyball Ottawa Hills HS A A A H H H H Saxon freshman take second at home invitational H H A A A H A A A H H H H H H The Hastings Saxons freshman volleyball team played tough Saturday, Sept. 15, at its home tourney, fighting to a second place finish after a 26-27, 25-15, 16-17 loss to Delton. The team was 3-2 on the day, said Coach Gina McMahon. Times and dates subject to change Thanks to This Week’s Sponsor: HASTINGS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS Contact Nancy 945-2742 or hastingsathleticboosters@gmail.com to sponsor the schedule A Phone: (269) 948-2244 Hastings JV golf cards win 77571075 THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 3:00 pm Girls Varsity Golf Comstock HS A Comstock Invitational 4:15 pm Boys Middle Cross Co. Forest Hills North Middle A 4:15 pm Girls Middle Cross Co. Forest Hills North Middle A 4:30 pm Boys Varsity Tennis G.R. Union A 4:30 pm Boys Fresh. Football Hamilton HS A 5:00 pm Girls Fresh. Volleyball GR Catholic Central H 6:00 pm Girls Varsity Swimming West Catholic H 6:00 pm Girls JV Volleyball GR Catholic Central H 6:30 pm Boys JV Football Hamilton HS A 7:00 pm Girls Varsity Volleyball GR Catholic Central H FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 7:00 pm Boys Varsity Football Hamilton HS H SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 9:00 am Boys Varsity Cross Co. Bangor HS A 9:00 am Girls Varsity Cross Co. Bangor HS A 9:00 am Girls Varsity Volleyball Kelloggsville HS A Kelloggsville Invitational 9:00 am Girls JV Volleyball Potterville HS A 9:00 am Girls Fresh. Volleyball Comstock HS A Comstock Fresh. Inv. 10:30 am Girls Varsity Swimming GR Catholic Central A Raider Sprints @ GR Com. 12:00 pm Boys JV Soccer GR Union H 1:30 pm Boys Varsity Soccer GR Union H 1:30 pm Girls Varsity Golf Kalamazoo Hackett HS A Mi Girls HS Golf @ Hackett MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 24 4:00 pm Boys Varsity Tennis GR Catholic Central H 4:15 pm Girls 8th A Volleyball Wyoming Park HS A @ Wyoming Jr. HS 4:15 pm Girls 7th A Volleyball Wyoming Park HS A @ Wyoming Jr. HS 5:30 pm Girls 7th B Volleyball Wyoming Park HS A @ Wyoming Jr. HS TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 3:45 pm Girls Varsity Golf Wayland Union HS A OK Gold Jam @ Orch. Hills 5:00 pm Boys JV Soccer South Christian HS A 5:00 pm Girls Varsity Volleyball Allegan HS A The Saxons JV girls golf team defeated Byron Center Tuesday, 240-269. The Saxons were led by Samantha Slatkin with a 55. The Barry County Chamber of Commerce is accepting nominations for the 2012 Athena Awards. The Athena is an internationally recognized leadership award honoring outstanding business and professional individuals for excellence in their chosen field, for providing valuable service to their community and most importantly, for actively assisting women in their attainment of professional goals and leadership skills. The program has grown to include organizations in hundreds of cities worldwide and has recognized over 5,000 Athena Award recipients. The Barry County Chamber of Commerce introduced the program locally in 2009 recognizing and has recognized three Athena Leaders: Lani Forbes, Executive Director of the Barry County United Way was honored as the inaugural 2009 Athena Award Recipient nominated by U.S. Congressman Vern Ehlers; Carla Wilson-Neil, Chief Operating Officer with Pennock Health Services was recognized in 2010 and most recently Jan Hartough, retired from MSU-Extension was honored as the 2011 Athena recipient. The Athena Leadership Model is built on eight qualities found inherently in the ways that women lead: Live Authentically, Learn Constantly, Advocate Fiercely, Act Courageously, Foster Collaboration, Build Relationships, Give Back and Celebrate. The Athena program relies on community members to raise the awareness of individuals that effectively lead according to Athena principles by submitting nominations for the award. More information about the Athena Leadership model can be found at www.athena international.org. Additionally, the Athena Young Professional Leadership Award was introduced in 2011 notably recognizing Megan Lavell, Executive Director of the Thornapple Arts Council for her impactful leadership roles and personal contributions in making Barry County a great community. The Athena Young Professional Leadership Award was introduced through a partnership of Leadership Barry County and the Barry County Chamber of Commerce to recognize aspiring young professional leaders. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 20, 2012 — Page 15 Saxon varsity soccer wins fourth shutout Senior goalkeeper Travis Matthews notched his fourth shutout of the season and classmates Ian Beck and Tanner Roderick provided all the offense needed Tuesday as the Hastings Saxons upped their O-K Gold Conference record to 3-1 with a 3-0 win over Thornapple Kellogg. “We dominated the possession from very early on and were able to keep the pressure on to create several scoring opportunities in both halves,” summarized Saxon Coach Ben Conklin. That pressure came in the first half on unassisted goals from Beck and Roderick. The two teamed up in the second half for the final Saxon goal when Roderick, on a corner kick, set up Beck for a score. Hastings also held the shots on goal edge, 9-4. On the season, the Saxons are carrying a 7-4 won-loss record. Tuesday’s win followed a 3-2 defeat in overtime Saturday, when the Saxons hosted Grand Rapids Catholic Central. Ian Beck leaps to redirect the ball for the Saxons in Saturday’s overtime defeat against the Cougars. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Hastings senior Chris Feldpausch stretches to reach the ball in Saturday’s battle against Grand Rapids Catholic Central. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Vikings take on tough Raider team Maxwell Clark (right) goes head to head against a Catholic Central Cougar in Saturday’s game that went into overtime. (Photo by Perry Hardin) BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY by Gerald Stein by Gerald Stein Last week’s bridge column listed the bridge classes that were available in Barry County and surrounding areas. These classes will be starting in the next few weeks. With classes offered in Hastings, Battle Creek, and Kalamazoo, all bridge players who are interested have only a short drive to learn new methods and conventions to improve their bridge game. This week we intend to look at places in Barry County and surrounding areas where avid bridge players can play as much as they want. Surprisingly, there are not a lot of known places in Barry County at this time, but hopefully that will change in the future. Here is what we have so far. In Hastings, a weekly game is held each Tuesday night at the Pennock Village Community Center at 6:30 PM. Run by Director Audrey Burdick, this game is a mixed social bridge group with a range of players from beginners to advanced status. With four to seven tables depending on the night or the season, players have a chance to compete with others in a fun and comfortable setting. Three rounds of bridge with six hands per round make this a fun evening. According to Audrey, “This is a fun group. They all enjoy getting together and playing bridge.” If interested in finding out more about their game and their location, call Director Audrey at 269-945-2451. In Richland, down M-43 about 20 miles south of Hastings, is the Richland Area Community Center at 9400 East CD Avenue. A social bridge game is offered at this new and comfortable facility each Monday afternoon from 12:30-3:30. If interested in learning more about this bridge game by taking a short drive down M-43, call the Richland Area Community Center at 269-629-9430. If you wish, you can visit their website at www.richlandareacc.org for other programs, including book discussion clubs, yoga, and dancing classes. In Kalamazoo, a bit further down the road, there are two bridge sites to consider. Both are duplicate bridge game sites: The Mini Romans Duplicate Club meets at the Main Street Grill, 5463 Gull Road, Suite 6, near the corner of Gull Road and Sprinkle Road in Kalamazoo. There are three games per week at the Mini Romans: Wednesdays at noon, an open and stratified game; Fridays at 11:00 AM, also an open and stratified game, and Sundays at 12:30 PM, an open and stratified game as well. Call Director David Shafer at 269-365-2936 for more information, including fees, directions, and partnerships. The other Kalamazoo bridge club is located at the Kalamazoo Bridge Center, 648 Maple Hill Drive, Kalamazoo. With nine different playing times throughout the week, it is easy to see that this is the largest duplicate bridge club around. The range of games is varied with open games, beginner games, and games in-between. The latest addition to their club line-up is the new beginner game on Friday nights, starting September 28, with a free pizza and salad and free play as an introductory class to playing duplicate bridge. This will be a fun evening for both social bridge players and those who want to look into duplicate-style bridge playing. Contact Directors Alan and Brenda Bau at 269-9299, or visit the Kalamazoo Bridge Center website for lots of information about games, bridge classes, tournaments, and more: www.kzoobridge.com. In Battle Creek, the Battle Creek Duplicate Bridge Club, located at Burnham Brook Center, 200 West Michigan Avenue, meets on Mondays at 11:00 AM. The game is an open duplicate game with non-smoking, handicap accessible, and stratified levels of play. For more information, contact Director JoAnn Cornell at 269-323-1133. In Lansing, there is a new website that is worth looking at: http://www.lansingbridgecenter.org I was pleasantly surprised by their new and easy-to-navigate site. The Lansing Bridge Center offers duplicate games on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays for beginners through advanced players. Located at 325 N. Clippert Street, across from Frandor Mall, the Lansing Bridge club just recently hosted the District 12 Regional Tournament in Lansing with seven days of tournamentstyle duplicate bridge sessions. A feature that not all clubs have is a bridge library. Lansing Bridge Club has a bridge library as does the Kalamazoo Bridge Club in Kalamazoo. Members may check out what is available and return with a wealth of bridge ideas. In Grand Rapids, there are also numerous times and places to play duplicate bridge: weekly for Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays once a month. Grand Rapids Bridge Club is a close second to Kalamazoo Bridge Center in offering multiple duplicate bridge games per week. For more information, contact Director Joanne Molt at 616-957-5035. Visit their website for times, places, and interesting comments from players: http://www.westmichiganbridge.com/ While most of the featured clubs in this week’s column are duplicate clubs, there is much to look at by touring their websites. Links to other bridge sites are often offered as well as commentary from directors and/or players. Look around our area to see what a wide variety of bridge playing sites are available. Check out our area, and if you find a spot to play your variety of bridge and you want to advertise it, contact the Editor of the Banner. If there are additional sites and places to play bridge in Barry County, we will try to include in future columns those places for Barry County Bridge Players to play bridge and have fun. ***** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) Zach Kilbourn (5) tries to shrug off a tackle by Raider Dylan Carroll (54) as Lars Pyrzynski (56) pursues the play. (Photo by Perry Hardin) by Doug VanderLaan Editor Though Friday’s 48-0 loss to Portland — which keeps the Lakewood Vikings winless at 0-4 on the season — was another tough blow for Coach Nick Boucher, with every week, he said he gains more respect for his players. “We have some really tough guys on this Lakewood’s Zach Kilbourn (5) goes up high to get a short pass up the middle. (Photo by Perry Hardin) team,” said Boucher following the loss to the 4-0 Raiders. “I feel like we always play as a team but, when we play together, it just brings us closer. I have a lot of respect for this group of guys.” The Vikings just had difficulty Friday finding the starter. Running back Zach Kilbourn looked rugged with 45 yards on 14 rushing carries but, as a team, Lakewood could only manage 54 total rushing yards. Quarterback Alex Potter showed savvy gamesmanship, but could only complete one pass for four yards on 12 attempts with one interception. Despite allowing 48 points, the Viking defense managed some stellar stops, spacing Viking quarterback Alex Potter (2) gets rid of the ball just in time to avoid the sack by Portland defensive lineman (50) Jacob Fox. (Photo by Perry Hardin) out the Raiders to only a pair of touchdowns in each of the first three quarters and a single one in the final quarter. Lars Pyrzynski led the defensive effort with eight tackles, and Jack Tromp added five. In addition to his two tackles, Tyler Oesch also added a fumble recovery. Conference play continues next week at Lansing Catholic Central. The game will be Saturday, Sept. 22, beginning at 2 p.m. Jordon Bennett (40) punts the ball under heavy pressure by Portland’s Dylan Carroll (54). (Photo by Perry Hardin) �Page 16 — Thursday, September 20, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Early goals give Panthers edge over Maple Valley Sailors prevail over TK in one of Trojans’ best games by Doug VanderLaan Editor The Middleville Trojans found something valuable in Friday’s game against South Christian. Unfortunately, it came in a game against South Christian. “We lost the game, 36-23, but it was one of our best games because we found the ability to move the ball,” sighed Coach Chad Ruger. “But we couldn’t finish what we started. It’s hard to have 423 yards in offense and lose a football game.” Three interceptions and a fumble interrupted impressive Middleville drives and allowed the powerhouse Sailors to capitalize on the Trojan mistakes with 17 second-quarter points which built a 20-9 South Christian lead from which Middleville could not recover. A trio of Trojan running backs, Danny Dykstra, Addison Schipper and C.J. Bronkema, cruised to 406 of Middleville’s offensive yards. Schipper, the team’s leading rusher who scored two touchdowns in last week’s 18-15 win over Greenville, piled on 161 yards on 17 carries. Dykstra added 152 yards on 13 carries with one scamper of 43 yards and Bronkema chipped in 93 more yards on five carries. The loss moves the Trojans to 1-3 on the year, though Friday’s effort was, perhaps, its most stellar outing of the year. “Unfortunately, we had a breakout game against an outstanding team,” said Ruger. “We’ve just told our players to keep on getting better, and that’s what we’ll preach this week, just keep on moving the ball without giving it up.” Middleville hosts Byron Center Friday for the Trojan’s homecoming game. Byron Center, 1-3, came up short against Greenville Friday, 24-14. Hastings' Katie Brown fires a shot from the fairway towards the green on number three at Hastings County Club Thursday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Saxons girls closer to first and further from third by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Saxons’ shaved the number of strokes between them and the Sailors in half from the first league jamboree of the year, when the OK Gold got together at Hastings Country Club Thursday. All the girls on the Hastings varsity girls’ golf team were all very interested in that Panther Liam DeMond (18) readies for a kick by Lion Josh Sanchez. (Photo by Perry Hardin) GET ALL THE LOCAL NEWS! A 16-5 advantage in shots on goal helped the Delton Kellogg Panthers to a 3-0 soccer win over Maple Valley Monday. Gary Egelkraut and Mark Ordway provided Delton a 2-0 first-half lead with goals 14 Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. The Saxons' Ashley Potter hits her tee shot on number three Thursday afternoon at Hastings Country Club. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Bird Feeder DIP DAY Battle Creek Store Only Bring in any type of Bird Feeder for a FREE Cleaning! Saturday, September 22 8:30 - Noon Large Hardy Mums Ready to bloom! 7 $ 99 each Drought damage? Now is the time to fertilize or re-seed your lawn. 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(Photo by Brett Bremer) number in the clubhouse after the round, but Hastings head coach Bruce Krueger has his eyes looking forward and behind. “I would like to make sure we lock down second while we’re chasing first,” Krueger told his girls. The Saxons did finish a few strokes further ahead of Wayland than they had at the previous league jamboree too. South Christian took the day’s title with a team score of 177. Hastings was second with a 190, followed by Wayland 197, Grand Rapids Catholic Central 217 and Thornapple Kellogg 244. Hastings’ Kylee Nemetz was the day’s top scorer, firing a 40. Nemetz is in the new role of the Saxons’ number one, after the graduation of state champion Gabrielle Shipley last spring. “I just want to do really well this season,” Nemetz said. “I want to do it for my team, and I have individual goals as well.” “It feels really nice to see my name up there (at the top of the scoreboard). It’s more pressure, but it’s nice to believe actually I have a shot at winning.” Her round could have been a little better even, as she missed a couple of short birdie putts on number six and number eight. The Saxon team also got a 48 from Lindy Kloosterman, a 49 from Katie Brown and a 53 from Ashley Potter. “We have made improvements,” Nemetz said. “We have a couple new people that are still getting used to it, but we get a long great. We have a lot of fun.” South Christian had fun winning Thursday, with four girls under 50. Megan Wierenga led the way with a 41. Arancha Baron shot a 43, Bridget Hemingway a 45 and Kelsey Ballast 48. DeeJay Minor led the Trojan team with a 53. Hannah Lamberg added a 62, Maria Pamplona a 64 and Sandra Gerou a 65. The league was set to get together again yesterday at Yankee Springs Golf Course. Call 945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads Delton’s Zach Young (22) fights off a pack of Lion defenders. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Saxons make improved cross country strides at Lakeview The highly competitive Lakeview Invitational proved to be an encouraging stepping stone for the Hastings Saxons cross country team Saturday which turned in a third place finish for the girls team and a fourth for the boys. Coming home with medals were Trista Straube who finished second and Rachel Rimer who turned in a 16th place finish for the girls. On the boys’ side, Chance Miller took home 24th place, Jake Miller, 26th, and Ronnie Collins 29th. Ariel Moore broke the finishing tape first for the junior varsity girls and Brandon Gray took 16th for the boys junior varsity team. Most improved among the boys were Robert Perry who cut his previous best finishing time by 5 minutes and 4 seconds, Nick Beauchamp who trimmed 3:48 off his previous best finishing time, and Ryan Carlson who outpaced his previous best finish by 3:39. Most improved for the girls were Maria Palacio with 1:56 off her previous best, Rimer with 1:36, and Lindsey Kuhlman with 1:16. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 20, 2012 — Page 17 Line play builds dominance for Saxons in 38-14 win over Wayland Saxon running back Logan Clements gets ready to add to his team’s 281 rushing yards in Friday’s 38-14 win over the Wildcats at Wayland High School. (Photo by Dan Goggins) Hastings receiver Miguel Arjona gets some air on this catch in the 38-14 win over Wayland Friday. (Photo by Dan Goggins) by Doug VanderLaan Editor If the undefeated Hamilton Hawkeyes are looking for a key to Friday’s upcoming mega throwdown in Hastings, they had better be studying the Saxons’ line play from last week’s 38-14 win over Wayland. The Hastings defensive line threw a shutout at the Wildcats for three quarters, allowing the only Wayland touchdowns on a special teams miscue and a 28-yard Wildcat scoring pass — both scores coming in the second quarter and neither providing any threat to the third Hastings’ win in four outings. “We played great team defense,” said Saxon Head Coach Fred Rademacher of his defensive unit, which has allowed opponents an average of only 11 points per game for the season. The stellar defensive effort allowed plenty Jon French eludes three Wildcats and looks upfield on this 35-yard return of kick for Hastings. (Photo by Dan Goggins) of breathing room for a Saxon offense that put up two scores before Wayland could get on the board. The initial score came on a first-quarter drive of 55 yards which culminated in the first of quarterback Chase Huisman’s two touchdown passes, this one to Kenny Cross on a 34-yard hookup, providing a 6-0 lead. The second was set up in the second quarter when the Saxons took control of the ball HYAA FOOTBALL Eighth grade gold Hastings quarterback Chase Huisman hands off to running back Stephen Shaffer who ends up with 108 yards rushing in the Saxon win over Wayland. (Photo by Dan Goggins) Lions upset Kalamazoo Christian in final play of the game by Doug VanderLaan Editor Saving their best for last – literally – the Maple Valley Lions pulled off a major upset Friday in a 14-13 last-play win at Kalamazoo Christian. It was the first time in their playing history that the Lions have knocked off the Comets. “Keegan Yost blocked their point after touchdown kick in the fourth quarter,” related Maple Valley Coach Brian Lincoln, “and I told the guys to watch because that was going to prove to be the difference in the game.” Lincoln’s word were prophetic. The Kalamazoo Christian touchdown, the second of the game for the Comets, came after a scoreless first half and shortly after their first score to take a 7-6 lead midway through the third quarter. The Lions then proceeded to mount what looked to be two scoring drives but both stalled, the first on the Kalamazoo Christian four-yard line and the second on the Comets’ 23-yard line. However, with the clock showing two minutes remaining in the game, the Lions took one last shot, beginning their final drive from the Kalamazoo Christian 48 with two time outs remaining. On a fourth-and-10, with 13 seconds remaining, Lincoln called for a sweep right and gave running back Austin Gonser the option to run or to pass. “He got down to the 15- or 20-yard line, and I said to myself, ‘He’s going to make it!’ “ said Lincoln. “We told Austin to find a running lane if he could and to use it.” With the play clock expired, the Lions still had the opportunity to convert a point after touchdown with the score standing at 13-12, Kalamazoo Christian. “We didn’t have any time outs left, but then Kalamazoo Christian called one,” related Lincoln. “That gave us the chance to switch plays and to call the sweep run left. We told Gonser to just get it inside the pylon and that is what he did.” And that’s what gave Maple Valley a major upset win and the opportunity to even it’s seasonal record at 2-2. Gonser scored both Maple Valley touchdowns and the all-important point after touchdown run on a 56-yard rushing night. Garrett Miller added 79 yards on 17 carries, Tyler Hickey 74 yards on 18 carries, and Dylan Kennedy 44 yards. “Anytime you outrush Kalamazoo Christian 251 yards to 166 yards, you know you’ve had a great game,” said Lincoln. The Lions will need a similar great effort next week when they travel to 4-0 Battle Creek Pennfield. The Hastings Saxons eighth grade gold team rallied Saturday from an early 12-point first quarter deficit to defeat the Delton Panthers 20-12. Quarterback Calvin Cappon completed two scoring strikes for touchdowns to end Skyler Brower on 87 yards passing. Cappon also added 44 yards rushing on seven carries. Billy Smith led the Saxon rushing attack with 46 yards on 12 carries and an extra point. Kip Beck, Ryan Smelker and Dan Koneska led the Saxon offensive line to 153 yards total rushing on 36 carries. Defensively, the Saxons were led by Ethan Hart with six tackles, including two for loss. Linebacker Devin Planck added five tackles, including one for loss and an interception. Trevor Ryan had four tackles, including one for loss. Linebackers Jacob Dunn and Derrick High each recorded three tackles to help shut down the Panthers after the first quarter. Bowling Scores Tuesday Trios SAM 9-5; Look Ins. 8-4; CBS 7-5; Team Turkey 6-6; Wash King 6-6; Coleman Ins. 62; Classic Trio 5-7; Lu’s Team 4-3; Blair Landscaping 3-9; Ghost Team 1-11. High Game - Renee B. 204; Shirlee V. 201; Tammy D. 192. High Series - Renee B. 535; Tammy D. 519; Shirlee V. 517. on the Wildcat 25-yard line and used a dominating offensive advantage to push junior Logan Clements to paydirt on a 14-yard run, moving ahead, 12-0. After Wayland scored on the ensuing 85yard kickoff, the Saxon offensive line took control, putting together 72-yard and 57-yard drives, the first capped by Huisman’s second touchdown pass, this one a 60-yard strike to Jon French and the second by a Stephen Shaffer three-yard plunge. “We were finally able to get a back to the third level and French did the rest from there,” said Rademacher of the touchdown pass. Reflecting on the 57-yard drive and second-half scoring drives of 86 and 55 yards — a run by Huisman and a run by French — Rademacher suggested a hint of destiny. “Our line and our entire offense does a great job of controlling the ball,” he said. “It seems like we’re built to grind out long drives.” That sounds like a game plan for the rest of the season. Celebrate the S A XON SPIRIT with a PRE-GAME TAILGATE PARTY FRIDAY, SEPT. 21ST To show community support for our football team and the spirit of being a Saxon, LARRY AND EARLENE BAUM and the HASTINGS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS are sponsoring a tailgate party with free grilled hot dogs, chips and a drink to anyone before the game with Hamilton High School, starting at 5:30 p.m. at the main entrance to Baum Stadium at Johnson Field. The game will start at 7 p.m. SAXON SPIRIT ... let it show! �Page 18 — Thursday, September 20, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Sun and stars shine upon 14th annual pow wow by David DeDecker Staff Writer As the mist lifted Saturday morning, the dancing and singing began at the 14th annual Frank Bush Walk-in-the-Spirit Pow Wow at Historic Charlton Park. Charlton Park on Thornapple Lake is the traditional homecoming grounds of the Anishnabe people and according to participants has spiritual significance. Anishnabe ancestors walked the woods and fished the waters hundreds, possibly thousands, of years before the park was established. The pow wow’s program explained a pow wow is a gathering of friends, a place to make new friends and a place to remember the passing of old friends. A pow wow is a place to dance and sing, to pray and to pass knowledge from one generation to the next. An announcer said pow wow dancing is done in the spirit of community with families and friends. The social and ceremonial significance of dances remains constant, but has adapted over the years to contemporary styles. Dancers participate in a grand entry, veter- The head male and female dancers for this year are Bob and Beth Moody. Bob is a member of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi – Eagle Clan and has been dancing for 32 years. Beth is a member of the Piqua Shawnee Tribe and Potawatomi descendant – Hawk Clan and has been a traditional female dancer for over 25 years. Young and old alike participate in the dancing. Many of the men and women have been dancing for since they could first walk. Men dress in warrior and spiritual regalia to dance and offer prayers. Crow Dancing (small boy, center) receives his name at the pow wow. In the morning, before the Grand Entrance, he stood at the Sacred Fire while tribal elders offered him prayers, gifts and advice. ans, traditional men and women’s , grass, fancy, jingle, and intertribal dance. This pow wow is held in memory and honor of Frank Bush, who was born in Shelbyville in 1922. He was active in the community and when the federal government again allowed the gathering of American Indians, one of the first pow wows in lower Michigan was at Charlton Park. Bush was a drummer on the first drum at that first pow wow before his death in 1997. Bush had been involved with the Native American Graves Protection and Reburial Act. He helped repatriate remains of the Anishnabe and worked with Charlton Park to return remains to ancient burials grounds. Bush was considered by many in Michigan’s Native American community to be a great teacher, and the Walk-in-the-Spirit Pow Wow honors him by being a traditional teaching pow wow. A small boy was honored in a traditional naming ceremony Saturday, giving him the name “Crow Dancing.” As dancers in traditional and contemporary regalia moved around the sacred circle, the meanings of the drums and songs were explained to visitors. Traders displayed there wares and explained how they were crafted. The traditional ways are being passed on to younger generations, just as Bush wished, according to his wife, Anne Bush. This weekend’s pow wow shared a beautiful culture with the public in the hope the positive experience would dispel stereotypes and breed tolerance in both culture and thought, she said. Dancers honor the flags of nations, countries and armed forces. Sponsored by the Barry County Solid Waste Oversight Committee with thanks to the Barry County Fair Board, Waste Management, Barry-Eaton District Health Department, the Barry County Substance Abuse Task Force, Sheriff’s Department and Local Pharmacies BARRY COUNTY HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE, TIRE, MEDICINE & ELECTRONICS* COLLECTION! Saturday, September 22, 2012 from 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. At the Barry County Fairgrounds, 1350 N. M-37 Hwy. Don’t Rush to Flush! Help Keep Your Home, Environment and Community Safe DISPOSE OF PRESCRIPTION DRUGS AND MEDICATIONS SAFELY Please keep medicine in original containers with name of drug clearly labeled. Do not pour paint, solvent, medicine, automotive oil, or chemicals down the drain or dump them in the trash where they may end up in our drinking water and lakes! Do not hold on to scrap or junk tires. Bring your items to the Barry County Household Hazardous Waste Collection! *Most electronics, including kitchen appliances, will be accepted at no charge. This includes computers, cell phones, microwaves and stereo equipment. There is a $25.00 fee for items containing Freon. Console TVs, projection TVs, and wooden speakers cannot be accepted WE CANNOT ACCEPT Latex Paint: when dry it can go to the landfill Propane Tanks Commercially Generated Waste Radioactive Material Explosives Unknown Wastes Console Televisions Projection Televisions Wooden Speakers Tires heavily caked with dirt WE CAN ACCEPT There will be a charge for EACH* clean scrap or junk tire brought to the collection: Tire Type Cost Standard tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1.00 Standard Tire on Rims . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $2.00 Truck Tire (16.5” - 19.5”) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $3.00 Truck Tires on Rims . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $6.00 Tractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $15.00 Tractor Tires on rims . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $27.00 *Additional charge for soiled or dirty tires For questions or for prices of tires over 19.5” call (269) 945-9516 extension 35 77571018 Aqueous acids and bases; oil based paints; reactives; solvents; aerosol cans; automotive liquids; pesticides (liquids and solids); alkaline, nickel-cadmium and/or silver oxide batteries; liquid cleaners; heavy metal solutions; mercury-containing articles; prescription and over-the-counter medicines; Motor Oil (10 gallons per vehicle); automotive batteries. SCRAP AND JUNK TIRES Jack Swanson is the Pow Wow’s Head Veteran. Swanson is a Vietnam veteran and United States Marine. He also serves as the commander of the Eagletown American Legion Post 120. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-09-27.pdf 71378d6c6b9115fbe914d9db86984067 PDF Text Text Virus continues to claim county deer Guenther leaves strong educational legacy Saxon spikers going for 20th victory See Story on Page 13 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 18 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 38 NEWS BRIEFS HHS homecoming parade and game are Friday Hastings High School will celebrate its homecoming with game against the Ottawa Hills Bengals at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 28, at Baum Stadium at Johnson Field. Before the big game, the homecoming parade will line up at 5:30 and step off at 6 p.m. led by several grand marshals, all recently retired Hastings Area Schools teachers. The parade will start at the high school and proceed east on South Street to South Church Street where it will turn north and proceed to Clinton Street then west to Young Street and south back to the high school. Trip across continents, bridge topics of next ILR classes Upcoming classes for the Institute for Learning in Retirement include “A Trip across the Continents” with Jeff Garrison and “Bidding in the 21st Century” with Jerry Stein, certified bridge instructor. Wednesdays, Oct. 3 through Nov. 28, from 10 a.m. to noon, Stein will provide instruction for those wishing to learn how to play bride and those wanting a refresher course. Participants will understand the history and basics of bridge as well as how to rebid and take out doubles. Garrison, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church in Hastings, will share his travel experiences from his fourmonth trek though Asia, Europe, Iceland, Greenland and Nova Scotia. This fourweek session will be Wednesdays from 1 to 3 p.m., Oct. 3, 10, 17 and 24. Both classes will meet at the Hastings campus of Kellogg Community College on West Gun Lake Road. Fee information may be obtained or registration made by calling the KCC Fehsenfeld Center, 269 948 9500, ext. 2803. Community band seeks members; rehearsal begins tonight The Thornapple Wind Band is seeking new members for the first session of the 2012-13 season. All post-high school musicians are invited to join the band for rehearsals Thursday nights in the Hastings High School band room beginning Sept. 27 to prepare for the Friday, Oct. 26, concert. That concert will be a special concert, where children are encouraged to wear a Halloween costume and will receive a bag of treats. Music will include a medley of Disney favorites , Looney Tunes themes, and themes of suspense from John Williams. All wind instrument players and percussionists are welcome. No auditions are necessary. Rehearsals are held from 7 to 9 p.m. Dave Macqueen will be the director. Current members of the Thornapple Wind Band represent a wide range of occupations and come from as far away as Alto, Battle Creek, Clarksville and other communities. For more information, call Mike or Kathy Scobey, 616-374-7547, or email kascobey@wildblue.net. Prospective members also may just show up for the first rehearsal. BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, September 27, 2012 City council continues to mull cemetery millage and takeover by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Is it an opportunity to preserve local history and honor the city’s founding fathers and those who have given their lives for their country, or is it nothing more than government bailing out a failing private industry? The Hastings City Council continues to seek information and mull those questions before deciding whether to ask voters to approve a 1-mill levy that would enable the city to assume the ownership, care and operation of Riverside Cemetery on East State Road. Monday evening, the Hastings City Council received a report from City Manager Jeff Mansfield regarding a request from a group of citizens calling themselves the Cemetery Action Group asking that the city assume ownership of the cemetery to ensure its care and operation in perpetuity. It is the third time the cemetery board and supporters have asked for assistance. However, while some community members have said the city should assume the responsibility take ownership of Riverside, the county’s largest cemetery, Hastings Mayor Pro-tem Brenda McNabb-Stange said it is nothing more than a bailout of a private company that has found itself in financial trouble. “Personally, I’m against it,” said McNabbStange. “I’m against going out and asking the electorate a third time to support the ceme- tery. I think we should take ‘No’ and say, ‘No,’ and not keeping running it by them until we get a ‘Yes.’ The feeling seems to be that [the electorate] didn’t know, that we didn’t get the word out; so, because they didn’t know, they didn’t vote ‘yes.’ “And, I don’t think we should get in the business of buying private businesses,” she said. “We’re buying out a private corporation that has been operating for 116 years, and basically taking it over. So, the government is now taking over private businesses.” “I don’t think it’s really a bailout,” said Trustee David Tossava. “ I think we’re going to end up with it one way or another, anyhow.” “We don’t have to ...” said McNabbStange. “Brenda, just a second,” said Tossava. “With all due respect, the last two times it was voted down, there was nobody that spearheaded this thing. They had no plan. They didn’t have the citizens they got now that are willing to invest the time and money into it. I think this whole thing should be put up to the electorate.” “It has been twice,” said McNabb-Stange. “Because no one was spear-heading it doesn’t mean the people didn’t know what they were voting on. And, they voted ‘no’ because they wanted to.” Trustee Bill Redman agreed with Tossava See CEMETERY, page 13 The fate of Hastings’ Riverside Cemetery could rest in the hands of voters. County-paid conference raises eyebrows, criticism by Doug VanderLaan Editor One week after standing resolute against pleas of financial hardship from four department heads, Barry County commissioners are now facing criticism for underwriting the participation of four potential — and still to be elected — commissioners on a political junket to the Michigan Association of Counties conference at the Shanty Creek Resort in Bellaire last week. Republican candidates Joyce Snow of District 3, Jon Smelker of District 4, Jim DeYoung of District 6, and James Dull of District 7 were invited by Commission Chair Craig Stolsonburg to attend the conference. All were winners of the Aug. 7 primary election, and all except Snow, who will face Democrat Barb Cichy, will run unopposed in the Nov. 6 general election. Snow and DeYoung declined Stolsonburg’s conference invitation. “This was not a training event, it was a conference,” stated lame duck Commissioner Jeff Van Nortwick during Tuesday evening’s county board meeting. “The election is not until November, and these people have not yet been elected — they’re still candidates. “I disapprove that the county paid for them to attend this conference,” he continued. “It was very inappropriate and showed bad judgment, especially after we heard last week from department heads who have been told to cut back on their budgets.” MAC is an advocacy organization for all of Michigan’s 83 counties and offers members educational programs, legislative representation, local workshops and conferences. Last week’s gathering, from Sunday, Sept. 23, through Tuesday, Sept. 25, was strictly a conference session with no education or training, according to Van Nortwick, who also did not attend. As commissioners are considering final details to the 2012-13 fiscal year budget which is due Oct. 31, they heard appeals last week from County Clerk Pam Jarvis, Register of Deeds Darla Burghdoff, Drain Commissioner Russ Yarger and Undersheriff Bob Baker, all of whom sought relief from proposed restric- tions to their projected allocations. Jarvis was granted $4,500 for increased mailing costs to potential jury pools and Yarger’s request for $2,666 to offset increased fuel costs was approved. Baker, however, was instructed to return with a revised plan for increased funding, and Burgdoff’s appeal for restoration of a half-time position was denied. In a telephone interview Wednesday, Stolsonburg said the county paid a $300 registration fee and two nights of lodging at $150 per night for Dull and for Smelker for a total county outlay of $1,200. The funds came from an education budget for commissioners which, because it’s seldom used according to Stolsonburg, continues to grow in size. In the case of Snow’s invitation, Stolsonburg said that Snow was asked to cover her own costs and would be reimbursed by the county upon her successful election in November. “In the past, incoming commissioners were offered the opportunity to go to the summer conference,” said Stolsonburg. “I thought that inviting the four new commissioners would get them familiar with the issues. Apparently, Jeff was never offered that opportunity, but I was not around at that time.” Van Nortwick, who said Tuesday that he declined to attend in order to save the county money, felt similar consideration should have been offered by the candidates. “Until they take the oath of office, they’re not commissioners,” maintained Van Nortwick. “They should have at least paid their own way. If we [the county board] were going to pay, it should have come to a committee meeting. In this case, a couple of people made the decision, and it was inappropriate.” Stolsonburg conceded the point Wednesday. “I stand by my decision to make the invitation,” said Stolsonburg, “but I’ll freely admit that I should have brought it up for discussion.” For his part, District 7 candidate and presumed new commissioner James Dull said by See CONFERENCE, page 2 Terminology slip tables nursing home zoning request by Doug VanderLaan Editor The numbers may have looked reasonable and the drawings may have appeared accurate, but the words were what tripped up a special permit request for a new nursing home in Johnstown Township Monday night at the Barry County Planning Commission meeting. “Is it a nursing home or is it an adult foster care home?” asked Commissioner Jack Miner of applicant Dennis Hutchings. “If you have a nursing home, the criteria is a lot different than for an adult foster care home.” Key for Miner was the cover page of Hutchings’ request that referred to the proposed facility as a nursing home. Inside, as Miner pointed out, the document went on to describe an adult foster care home. Hutchings responded, “We applied for an adult foster care home.” “That’s not what it says,” replied Miner. Reached by telephone at his home Wednesday, Hutchings chalked the mix-up to inaccurate preparation of the paperwork by the planning and zoning office. However, when questioned by commissioners during Monday’s meeting, Planning and Zoning Director James McManus was steadfast. “When he came to the office with a description of the project, it was for a nursing home,” said McManus. “It is a nursing home because it has more than 15 beds. He will receive his documentation and it will say ‘nursing home’ on it. I don’t know how the state will react because an adult foster care home can only have up to 12 beds.” For now, Hutchings will receive no documentation because, at the suggestion of Commissioner Michael Barney, the application was tabled pending further documentation from Hutchings as well as a geographic elevation drawing of the project. Hutchings’ application was the first received by the planning commission since Aug. 14 when the Barry County Board of Commissioners amended a zoning ordinance that now allows new nursing home construction in most zoning designations of the county. Hutchings’ proposal is for a privately run facility to be constructed across from his farm property where Fruin Road meets North Avenue. Several members of Monday’s audience of approximately 40 people spoke in favor of the idea, including Hutchings’ two daughters who both work in the health care field and would be operators of the proposed facility. “Families do not want their family members to go to a facility,” said Melissa Hutchings, a certified nursing assistant who works in hospice care. “This proposed home would provide a little bit of relief for people who may only have known farm life. They can’t imagine looking out of a facility and seeing another building, and there are not enough homes like this proposed facility out there. “I want to work with residents in gardening and with flowers. I want to show them that there’s life at the end of what little time they may have left.” That sentiment was applauded by Monday’s audience, but not necessarily endorsed by opposing viewpoints that would prefer to see the facility located elsewhere. “I understand nursing homes and the need for them,” said Violet Hinton, a neighbor to the proposed facility, “but this is just not the proper location.” Hinton and many echoers voiced objections based on the proposed facility’s distance from the closest hospitals, the tricky driving terrain, the plans for sewage disposal, lack of existing studies showing parking needs, farm odors, and the safety of facility occupants around nearby streams and ponds. “Where are the EPA studies to see what [Hutchings] will do with the sewage?” asked Hinton. “The water level is high and, when it rains, meds will go into the sewer and can leak into the natural waterways. I’m not in favor of killing everyone so Mrs. Hutchings and her daughters can walk across the street to go to work.” Others honed in on the differences between nursing homes and adult foster care. Sharon Gilbert, who prefaced her remarks by saying she wasn’t sure if she was in opposition to the proposal because she lacked information, presented concerns about facility demographics and ownership stability. “Adult foster care means they accept the mentally challenged, people with dementia and those with severe drug problems,” said Gilbert. “Who are we going to have as neighbors? “A lot of these places get sold. What happens in five to eight years when this one gets sold? I just have questions,” she concluded. Commission Chair Clyde Morgan offered Hutchings a rebuttal response, during which Hutchings informed the commission that he had spoken with leaders at the sheriff’s department, the fire department, and the health department about all of the concerns raised. “A lot of stuff they talked about was immaterial and a lot of it was not true,” said Hutchings during his Tuesday phone conver- See NURSING HOME, page 2 �Page 2 — Thursday, September 27, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Compromise works for some – not all – in Hope Township by Doug VanderLaan Editor Running for the daylight of compromise, the Hope Township Planning Commission Thursday, Sept. 20, brought a long and controversial land use dispute between two Head Lake property owners to a hoped-for conclusion. Key to the request of the Elwood Henney family for a special exception use permit of its 2.1-acre lakeside property is a nine-point statement of conditions under which as many as 10 recreational vehicles or trailers may access the property during defined periods each year. The list of conditions became necessary when neighbors Robert and Mary Haak protested the planning commission’s decision nearly six months ago to honor the Henney’s request for an additional six recreational vehicles on the parcel. In 1996, the planning commission had originally permitted four recreational vehicles which still exists for the property. The Haak’s objection created a firestorm of protest to the Henney request from fellow Head Lake residents, neighbors from adjacent lakes and even township residents who fear a precedent that could affect every property owner in the township. “We have one party that doesn’t want any, and we have the other party that wants more,” said Commissioner Doug Peck of one of the nine conditions limiting placement of the six additional recreational vehicles to four fiveday periods which can run consecutively and which require notification by the Henney family to Zoning Administrator Brian Wegener. The time restriction to four five-day periods was actually an increase from two fiveday periods agreed to, in principle, at the commission’s Aug. 23 meeting. The latter agreement also differed from the Henney’s original request for use of the six additional recreational vehicles for only two weekends per year, a request they modified, according to planning commission notes, by requesting more time flexibility. That request was granted with permission for three months’ use when the commission met March 22, the first of five planning commission meetings held to deal with the dispute. Since, the March meeting, the planning commission has struggled to find a compromise. It also wrestled Thursday to find middle ground on a sticky issue having to do with a requested site plan submitted by the Henney Bob and Mary Haak address the Hope Township Planning Commission Sept. 20. Board members and staff include (from left) Brian Wegener, zoning administrator; Doug Peck; Ken Sparks, township attorney; Roger Pashby; Bob Norton; and Junior Hollister. Not pictured is Commissioner Arlene Tonkin. family. The planning commission had adjourned a public hearing and the subsequent deliberations on Aug. 23 stating that the original site plan presented by the Henneys lacked enough specificity to rule on the placement of the six additional recreational vehicles. “This site plan is not worth the paper it’s written on,” said attorney James Sullivan, representing the Haaks, of the most recent site plan submitted. “They are asking this board to make a decision based on a fabricated document. This board very specifically said at its last meeting ‘Give us a detailed site plan’ and this is just a fabricated document. “Every dimension on this site plan is inaccurate. The board needs to study a site plan, it needs to convene out there [on the Henney property] with tape measures. They [the Henneys] intend to put these trailers where they want them. This board has been misled.” The Haaks followed Sullivan’s remarks by addressing the board themselves, providing board members with packets of drawings and photographs proving, they contended, that the Henney property is not in compliance with numerous regulations including improper drain field location, non-permitted power hookups, and erroneous building setback reporting. The presentation of the alleged violations apparently provided the commission with the opening it needed to sidestep the controversy and to focus instead on the part of the site plan dealing only with the request for placement of the six recreational vehicles. “The concern that brought us here tonight was the site plan,” said Commissioner Bob Norton. “The question is, ‘Does the revised site plan give us definition that the other plan lacked?’ I’m not interested in the five of going out there with tape measures. If these claims [by the Haaks] are valid, have the zoning administrator go out and research them for us. I don’t know how to judge competing claims.” Peck assented, suggesting that the discussion of a revised and accurate site plan was secondary to discussion of the special exception use request. “Are we concerned with what’s a violation within the site plan?” inquired Peck. “This [site plan] is like drawing what exists now. I think the whole special exception use permit is for the extra trailers.” When Township Attorney Ken Sparks pointed out that the state guidelines require outlined spaces for recreational vehicles to be much larger than the vehicles themselves, Norton expressed comfort in distancing himself from the lack of detail, including the location of the drainfield. “Even if we are concerned that a portion of the site might be located near a drainfield area,” said Sparks, “that doesn’t mean that, if there’s still sufficient room on that site to place an RV, there’s a problem.” The broad planning parameters were a welcome direction which appealed to Norton, especially when the discussion returned to time use and Peck suggested adding an additional two five-day time periods to the two that had been agreed to at the start of the meeting. “Keeping the intense use temporary makes me much more comfortable with the lack of other parameters,” stated Norton. “The less temporary the use is, the more, I think, we need to pinch on it in other ways.” Whether the broad planning parameters will be as comfortable to the principle players in the drama will still be up for discussion. “We definitely found some middle ground,” said Monica Henney, a daughter-inlaw to landowner Elwood Henney, by telephone following the Sept. 20 meeting. “Being able to spend a few weeks together in the summer as a family is not much to ask. “The four five-day periods is great — but we haven’t seen all of the conditions. We’re content for now, but what else are they going to force us to comply with?” Of particular concern to Henney are site violations by other property owners that are not being addressed and which, in the interest of fairness, should be acknowledged. “We’re not quiet yet; this is not the end of our voice.” Neither it is the end, apparently, for the Haaks who, according to Bob Haak, will just move their objections to another venue. Because the planning commission sidestepped their objections relating to code, health, and site plan violations, the Haaks will now approach the Barry County Department of Health and the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality with their concerns. “They took our site plan and, basically, threw it out” said Bob Haak of the planning commission’s review of a professionally-prepared plan and another submitted by Haak himself. “The township doesn’t care, they just want to see that there’s enough land to do something. “If they approve anything, what does it take to get denied? It’s just sad that our township didn’t do what is right.” Though the issue would appear to be resolved, Haak, for one, says he’ll be in attendance at the planning commission’s next meeting Thursday, Oct. 11, just to be sure that, with approval of the Sept. 20 meeting minutes, nothing is changed. CONFERENCE, continued from page 1 phone Wednesday that he understands the concern, but that greater benefit was derived from the county’s funding of his attendance at the conference. “I raised that question with [County Administrator] Michael Brown,” said Dull, “and he did say that, unless Jeff does something phenomenal on a write-in vote or something, there’s an argument to be made for the importance of bringing newly elected commissioners up to speed when they take office.” Dull said numerous topics at the conference proved beneficial, including a seminar outlining the benefits of a county having its own Veterans Administration office staffed on a full-time basis by a person able to lobby for a full percentage of benefits paid by the federal government to counties. “If Jeff somehow supersedes me in the November election and they want me to pay the money back, I’d have no problem with that,” said Dull. “It was a good idea and a Ball fields will benefit from Bradford White expansion Bradford White Corporation in Middleville needed a place to move tons of soil from its building expansion site, and the Thornapple Area Parks and Recreation committee had just the right location: the ball fields at Crane Road. Badly needed topsoil from the factory site will be delivered to the nearby fields to be spread by volunteers. Bradford White continues working on its latest expansion and construction. Changes in federal regulations, scheduled to be enforced by 2015, mean that the county’s largest employer must make significant changes in the way it manufactures and distributes water heaters. Eric Lannes, executive vice president and general manager for Bradford White, earlier this year called it “the largest single change we’ve ever done.” (Photo by Julie Makarewicz) 77569443 good move to get new commissioners up there to get them up to speed and, if they want me to pay the money back, I’d understand.” Smelker also consulted with Brown and about the perception of spending county money after last week’s tough budget line with department heads making appeals. “My thoughts were the same,” said Smelker by telephone Wednesday afternoon. “Michael is very conservative with the county’s money and he thought that, with as many new commissioners coming on, it would be well-spent money for us to learn as much as possible.” Smelker, too, felt the VA seminiar and another on economic development were helpful, educational, and relevant, especially as new commissioners could be assigned to similar committees once they do officially take their office. “I did give consideration to paying my way and I didn’t do anything about it,” conceded Smelker, “but I do think it was worth the NURSING HOME, continued from page 1 sation. “Why they don’t talk facts instead of trying to snowball people on the board is beyond me.” Pointing out that many of the people who spoke in opposition live in homes bigger than his proposed facility, Hutchings defined the resistance as a typical social response when folks move to the country. “I’ve lived here 38 years and farmed cattle and hogs most of my life,” said Hutchings. “They moved out here and then they complained about the hogs. “They talked about the dangerous highway, and I talked to the county. It’s a 30 mph curve — if you go faster than that, you’re going to wreck. An adult foster care home won’t stop someone from drinking. North Avenue is a Class A road just the same as M-66 and M-37. They’d rather see a facility over there, but you’re going to have the same questions to ask over there as you do over here.” Because the proposal has yet to be decided on by the planning commission, the questions will remain, most likely until the planning commission’s Oct. 11 meeting when Hutchings expects to return with the additional requested documentation. Until then, he said he is resigned to his role. “It doesn’t matter,” he said Tuesday. “I don’t mind people having legitimate questions. We have to meet our obligations to the county and to the state, and then it will up to the planning commission.” “I stand by my decision to make the invitation, but I’ll freely admit that I should have brought it up for discussion.” Craig Stolsonburg money for us to attend the seminars we did. Also, there were other commissioners who were for us going.” Commissioner Howard Gibson was one who expressed public thanks at Tuesday’s meeting for Smelker and Dull attending. Stolsonburg and Commissioner Ben Geiger, who accompanied Dull and Smelker along with Brown, also were among those who supported the effort to bring new commissioners up to speed, said Smelker. In other business, the board: • Approved the 2013 Child Care Fund Plan and Budget in compliance with conditions needed to qualify for reimbursable funds. • Approved an entry request from Regan and Alice Chase of Castleton Township for the Farmland and Open Space Preservation Program. • Approved budget transfers and adjustments in the amount of $1,263,004. • Approved three resolutions concerning Municipal Employees Retirement System pension program changes allowing increased employee contributions to the plan by Barry County elected officials and by department heads and, the third, the establishment of a new division within the pension program for Central Dispatch employees. • Approved a refinancing of 2006 bonds used to improve and expand the Thornapple Manor Medical Care Facility to take advantage of reduced interest rates. • Approved a resolution to honor Stephen R. Tackitt, Barry-Eaton District Health Department health officer upon his retirement. • Received a report from Brown that the county’s appeal of an EPA fund reimbursement denial had been reversed and that a check of approximately $6,500 is expected. The board of commissioners will meet Tuesday, Oct. 2, for a committee of the whole session at 9 a.m. in the commission chambers at the Barry County Courthouse. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 27, 2012 — Page 3 Hastings part of the ‘Magic’ of ArtPrize by Doug VanderLaan Editor The generosity of a Hastings couple, the persistence of a classmate from 50 years ago, and the strategic advisement of a new colleague may be one of the more stirring stories of Art Prize 2012 in Grand Rapids. That and stories about an encounter at Westminster Abbey, the Montgolfier brothers flying a hot air balloon for Marie Antoinette, and a modern firewalker from Battle Creek are part of the “Magic” that Barry County is bringing to the world’s largest art competition. “My paintings tell a story, a story for all times,” says New Mexico artist Jane Maclean whose six-foot, eight-paneled work entitled “Magic” is being displayed in the Huntington Bank building, at Art Prize’s epicenter. The professional story that Maclean’s ArtPrize painting tells is the history of hot air ballooning and of the sport’s signature event in her hometown, the annual Albuquerque International Balloon Festival. The personal story that Maclean, 70, brings to Barry County is just as gripping. “I remember Jim from high school, but he was a ‘B’ and I was a ‘W,’ from my maiden name, so he always sat in front and I was always in the back,” relates Maclean of Hastings’ Jim Blake when the two attended high school in Stonington, Connecticut. “We never dated, we never exchanged Christmas cards, and we each went to three high school reunions but never really even visited with each other.” That changed at the 50th reunion two years ago where the classmates still never made contact. “I was talking to a friend at a cocktail party and we were talking a little about art and what we liked,” recalls Blake. “She told me about Jane and that she would bring me a packet of cards showing her work to the next night’s dinner. “Well, I thought her work was outstanding in terms of what I like, at least. And I remember thinking, we’ve got to convince Jane to enter ArtPrize.” It took some real selling on Blake’s part, but he had an attractive package to present: accommodations with he and his wife, Sheryl Lewis-Blake at their Hastings home, a car with which to commute daily to the Grand Rapids venue, and the inside advice of Ruth Gee, a friend and fellow Hastings resident who has been a past ArtPrize entrant. “So here we are,” laughs an at-first skeptical Maclean whose only venture to Michigan had been passing through Detroit on the way to Canada with her family. “I’m in New Mexico, they’re in Michigan, and we’re visiting in Connecticut. It was just so bizarre. “I was trying to figure out a way to say no nicely. I got online to see what I might do if I did enter and then say no. Then I wondered what he would say if I mentioned balloons.” Unbeknownst to Maclean, that balloon idea resounded with Blake who felt it would be a natural because of the area’s familiarity with the annual balloon festival in Battle Creek — but at that point Maclean was already feeling the “Magic” of the idea, recalling an encounter several years ago on a visit to Westminster Abbey in London. “It was after the sermon and I wanted to shake hands with the dean,” recalls Maclean. “He shook my hand, asked where I was from, and I replied ‘The States.’ He kept holding onto my hand and asked, ‘But, where in the States?’ “I don’t know why I didn’t say New Mexico, but I said Albuquerque and he just grinned and said, ‘I just returned from your Balloon Fiesta!’ Here we were in this honored and historical place and we were so happy to connect with each other through balloons. “When I began to think of what I would bring to ArtPrize that would appeal universally, I knew it had to be balloons.” Jane Maclean’s work, entitled Magic, was done as an historical narrative, telling in five panels, the story of the 46-year Albuquerque Balloon Festival. One panel of Maclean’s painting depicts the launch field at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, which is 80 football fields long. That began a nearly two-year odyssey to construct the piece which first included six month of research, then 16-17 months of painting, the last four months of which demanded 15-hour days. For a self-taught artist who spent 34 years as a dental hygienist before seriously taking up art at 58 years old, the work became a strung-out addiction, but one which brought her intimately into a time gone by and a world that still lives. What’s been even more enlightening, pleasantly eerie, and wonderfully Magic has been the coincidences or unfolding of a plan that kicked off with the innocent but passionate suggestion of Jim Blake from Hastings, Michigan. “In 2010, two gas balloonists went down in the Adriatic Sea, relates Maclean. “I got permission from their families to position them in my painting and it was only after I had painted them in did I see images of the memorial service they held for the two balloonists — they had position two of their balloons touching each other just as I had in my painting. “It was weird, but I was told I needed another word for it because it was more ‘wonderful.’” Even at ArtPrize the wonder has continued. “I picked several of the images for the painting out of the catalog for the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta,” says Maclean, “and I positioned one called ‘Firewalker’ for the middle panel. When I looked up in the crowd of people at ArtPrize, I saw Ben Rolfe Helping New Mexico artist Jane Maclean (center) debut at ArtPrize 2012 is a team of Hastings friends made up of (from left) Ruth Gee, Sheryl Lewis Blake, (back) Bruce Gee and Jim Blake. Hastings artist and former high school teacher Dennis O’Mara is also an ArtPrize 2012 entry. from Battle Creek (Firewalker’s pilot). I had never met Ben, but there he was — he looked exactly like I had painted him on the grid.” Maclean had a similar experience while researching the Montgolfier, the world’s first hot air balloon that the Montgolfier Brothers debuted as Marie Antoinette witnessed the event in Paris in 1783. “Seven generations later, after the first Montgolfier in front of Marie Antoinette, who comes to the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta?” asks Maclean. “It was Philippe Denis Buron Pilatre, the seventh generation descendent of the Mongolfiers. During one ArtPrize evening, patrons could hear the pleased gasps of two young lady historians who identified the Montgolfier balloon in Maclean’s work. Much of Maclean’s “Magic” in Grand Rapids, she joyfully points out, has been through the assistance she’s received from the friends she colleagues she met after arriving. The Blakes provided the comfort and convenience of home. Gee furnished the inside knowledge and suggestions to survive a withering three weeks of art competition. “The big thing is that, when you’re from out of town, you have no idea where you want to display your work,” said Gee. “Jane told me the size of panels she was working with and, for size reasons, some venues like the BOB and DeVos Hall were out. “Knowing where you get the most foot traffic is important and the order of things that need to be done. There’s business cards to hand out and little things like knowing where you need to put your coat and how to put your purse inside. “Some artists sing or talk while they work to build their voice box up — that’s a lot of people to talk to at ArtPrize.” Gee’s most valid suggestion has been Huntington Bank, a corporation with a culture that, she says, has supported the efforts of women right down to free parking and onstaff support. And then there’s always marketing for the future. One of the many guideposts Gee provided Maclean was public relations work with media, even media outlets in the countries from which many of the balloons in Magic originate. Of course, there’s the competition. With a $200,000 top prize and substantial payouts for the Top 10 vote-getters, ArtPrize is high stakes. But Maclean says she is realistic. “I’m here for the ride,” she smiles. Which she points out has been a most enjoyable journey which, because of friends old and new, has fed into the “magic” of her work. “Don’t ever be afraid of a high school reunion,” she quips. �Page 4 — Thursday, September 27, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Guenther leaves a legacy for building a strong educational system Members of the Hastings Board of Education at its regular meeting in December 1960 accepted “with regret” the decision of Superintendent L.H. Lamb to retire his post, effective June 30, 1961. As part of the agreement, Lamb would become superintendent emeritus from Jan. 1, 1961 to the end of the school year. Succeeding Lamb will be Richard J. Guenther, who had been assistant superintendent since March of 1959. Guenther passed away last week at the age of 87, and his death caused me to recall the wonderful legacy he provided to this community. In that 1961 resolution hiring Guenther, school board members said, “We feel most fortunate to have Mr. Guenther available as superintendent and are pleased to have the unqualified recommendation of authorities from three of Michigan’s leading universities for his appointment.” According to Lamb, Guenther was hired to be the first supervising teacher since 1948. As part of his job description, he would be responsible for curriculum coordination for all grades. In addition, Lamb wanted Guenther to become familiar with school finances and budget control, annexation, transportation, personnel, maintenance and publicity. Guenther was called on to fill the post that he had been trained for since coming to the Hastings district in January of 1957. In March of 1959, due to concerns with Lamb’s declining health, the school board named Guenther assistant superintendent, giving him some time to learn the ropes, so when it became necessary, he would be prepared to take over the top slot. Guenther was born Oct. 13, 1924, in Crystal Falls, in the Upper Peninsula. He made a name for himself in high school at Hurley, Wisc,, where he graduated. Following graduation, Guenther joined the U.S. Marine Corps, and participated in some of the most famous battles of World War II, including Iwo Jima. Deciding not to re-enlist, Guenther enrolled in Michigan State Normal College, known today as Eastern Michigan University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in education with additional courses in special education. He then taught at Wayne County Training School while attending graduate school at the University of Michigan, where he obtained a master’s degree. After college, Guenther accepted a position at the W.K. Kellogg Foundation for three years for a position at the Barry County Special Education School, along with serving as a consultant with the State Department of Public Instruction. Guenther also held positions as assistant professor on the staffs of Michigan State and Western Michigan universities. Early in 1974, he joined doctors and health professionals as a member of the regional diagnostic visitation team to evaluate the 12 regional centers for the evaluation of the handicapped. Guenther was a long-time member of the Hastings Kiwanis Club and served as the club’s president. The State Junior Chamber of Commerce named Guenther in 1960 as one of five outstanding young men in Michigan. He was a member of the Hastings Chamber of Commerce, president of the State Council for Exceptional Children and a board member for the Michigan Association for Retarded Children. My first recollections of Guenther came in the mid-1960s when I was a student in the Hastings School System. In those early years, Guenther was building a reputation as an education leader and had already received several honors for his skills. My dad always enjoyed working with former superintendent Lee Lamb, but, within a few months after Guenther took over, he could see that Guenther had the skills to grow the district and enhance the educational opportunities for all the students. Shortly after Lamb stepped down, Guenther talked him into leading a study for annexation of rural school districts in the county and the consolidation of area districts with Hastings. Because of the number of questions regarding annexation and re-organization, the board, under the leadership of Board President Mildred Smith, decided not to proceed with any annexation except in cases of dire emergency. Yet, Guenther was in favor of consolidation saying, “If we sincerely subscribe to the belief that a complete education is our responsibility for all children in the community-area, then school annexations are consistent with our philosophy of education.” It took several years to complete the project, but Guenther realized the benefits of growing the district and offering a wellrounded education to our students. Under Guenther’s leadership the district continued to grow and due to increasing enrollment advanced to a Class A status. Guenther told the school board that annexation was not unique to Barry County, but that it was a nationwide movement to enroll every child in a K-12 school district. Guenther felt the Hastings district had more to gain through annexation, so he continued to promote the process until it was completed. Guenther followed Lamb’s lead in searching out the best candidates for school board. He used his professional style to attract candidates from business and industry, professionals and labor leaders. He remarked that school board members don’t receive any compensation, it’s all about community service, so why not get the best people who have some specialized knowledge and leadership skills? Under his leadership, the district promoted a relationship with Western Michigan University, attracting great teachers, coaches and administrators to the district. Guenther prided himself on the number of highly qualified teachers he was able to attract to the Hastings School System. Some people might look back and criticize him for increasing their salaries, but in those days many of the teachers worked after school, drove school buses, painted houses in the summer months or even cleaned furnaces. Guenther did increase the wages, and in 1973 negotiated a five-year contract with teachers and support staff. Guenther said of the agreement, “It’s something the school district had sufficient millage to cover the added cost.” He went on to say that the five-year teachers’ contract was unique, and that there may not be another school district in Michigan with such a long-term agreement. He set the bar for faculty members early in his tenure. With less than a year on the job, he told board members that school faculty continued to demonstrate a high grade of efficiency. Their devotion and interest in their work is outstanding. They have been most willing to put forth extra time and effort in all the facets of our operation. He went on the outline a number of programs that he wanted to introduce to the district when funds were available. Guenther had plans for a formal physical education program at all levels. He wanted full-time guidance counselors for all grades and a full-time speech therapist. He said the all schools in the county needed teacherconsultant services to help teachers with children who have problems of personalsocial adjustments. And early on, he set the stage and began his campaign for a new high school. The real marketing began in the mid-1960s when he asked Lewis Lang to chair a citizens committee to develop the program. I can remember Dick coming to our office and working with my dad in producing an eight-page brochure with all the facts, drawings and reasons to support the project. And, I might add, none of the materials were printed or distributed at taxpayers’ expense. But that leads to why Guenther’s tenure became a district legacy. Guenther had a gift, a personality that became a magnet for the district and our community. He had a great smile and, under most circumstances, was ready to wow you with his ability to discuss any subject that related to the business of education. The way he handled the job was “genius” to say the least. He made it his dedication to do whatever necessary to make our school system the best it could be. He was genuinely interested in kids and their education. As a former teacher, his knowledge of curriculum allowed him to make the necessary instructional changes during his administration. Today, we often talk about the lack of career education in the system. It was Guenther’s passion to prepare all students for life after school. He was concerned that vocational education in the Hastings Schools wasn’t complete, so he promoted joining the Kent or Calhoun counties’ technical training programs. He was concerned that the district wasn’t able to offer a level of technical training for employmentbound youths, school dropouts or the necessary re-training for adults. Times were changing, and Guenther accepted the fact that all students weren’t meant to attend college. He felt the purpose of all education was to prepare kids for life in general. Today, nearly 50 years later, we’re again focusing on vocational training and preparing our students for life after school. Under his leadership, Guenther formed the Committee of 100, representing a broad range of community leaders. Dick wanted tradesmen, professionals, business and industry leaders, along with educators to find new approaches to prepare our youths for work. In June 1964, the Committee of 100 published its “Blueprint for Action” with a plan of recommendations and the road map to implement them. Looking back over Guenther’s tenure was, by all accounts, some of the Hastings School District’s best years. Guenther was an unclaimed politician in that he understood what he had to do, who he had to influence and attracted the best people to help him in his mission to build a better system. Hastings will surely miss this great communicator and leader, but history will record his lifetime passion in education as a job well done. Fred Jacobs vice-president, J-Ad Graphics Bravery behind glass Bill Redman of Hastings submitted this photo taken recently at his North Taffee Street residence. He said the squirrel was running back and forth, eliciting barking and running from his dog. Suddenly, the two four-legged animals stopped and stared at each other for two or three minutes, Redman said, enough time for him to capture this photo with his cell phone. “It was really neat, he said, adding that he thought someone might not believe the encounter, so he took a photo. “It was like one was saying, ‘I’d like to get a hold of you,’ and the other was saying, ‘Oh, no, you won’t.” We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@jadgraphics.com. Do you know? Do you know any of these people? Do you recognize the office they’re in? Do you know why this photo was taken? Was the lady receiving the flowers, or about to give them to someone else? What can you tell us about this photo? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos What do you think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website, www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. In this undated photo, Richard Guenther (right) meets with Russ Hankins (left), Hastings Chamber of Commerce director, to go over a special project the Chamber planned on offering in Hastings. At the time, Guenther was vice president and publicity chairman for the chamber. The two gentlemen that were also at the meeting were not identified. Last week’s question: ArtPrize, the world’s largest art competition, opened yesterday in Grand Rapids with several Barry County people pert of the 1,500 artists from 45 states and 56 countries who will be displaying. Do you plan to attend? 53% 47% Yes No and provide a little more information about the event to reunite the photos with their original clippings or identify photos that may never have been used. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@j-adgraphics.com; or call 269-9459554. Last week’s photo of a man at a podium, standing next to a brick wall drew no response. For this week: Barry County commissioners recently amended a zoning ordinance to allow nursing homes in most zoning designations after receiving an application for a facility in rural Johnstown Township. Should nursing homes be allowed to locate any where in the county? q q YES NO �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 27, 2012 — Page 5 State needs balance between protection and costs To the editor: Last Thursday, I attended an oil/gas exploration seminar at the Orangeville Township Hall. It was a public meeting on “fracking.” Since the auction of oil, gas and mineral rights on state lands in Barry County by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources this year, citizen interest has been high. The meeting was informative and well attended and I thank all involved. We were fortunate to have Hal Fitch, the director of the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality Office of Oil, Gas and Minerals, present to provide background, answer questions and hear the concerns of citizens. I have been an active officer of the Four Townships Water Resources Council for close to 20 years and served as planning commission chairman of Prairieville Township for 14 years, so I have had many opportunities for close interaction with DEQ personnel. I have consistently found the DEQ field people to be sincere in their desire to protect our environment and serve the citizens of our state. But I have also observed that they were overworked and stretched pretty thin over the territory they covered. I asked Hal Fitch how many inspectors the Office of Oil, Gas and Minerals had to insure proper environmental protections were observed in the approximately 12,000 oil and gas wells currently in operation in Michigan. He said 25. That means that on average each field person was responsible for the oversight of 480 wells. That’s a tough challenge. If we do see an increase in the number of active wells in our state, the DEQ will be stretched even thinner. We get caught up in the complaints about excessive government regulation and being overtaxed. We all want our taxes reduced. And we all want the government off our backs. But, remember, we have to square that with our worries about industrial pollution and the spoiling of the rural environment that we cherish in Barry County. Many people at the meeting complained that the DEQ or DNR wasn’t able to adequately monitor, regulate and prevent contamination and other problems associated with oil and gas exploration. Those protections are government regulation and they cost money. We have to balance the demands for economic development with the needs to protect our health, environment and community. Dr. Kenneth M. Kornheiser, Plainwell Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. The Hastings Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Bonnie Mattson Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 Alice and Kensinger Jones, Baltimore Township. think about a future career. I wish my son had done the same. In later years, while attending high school reunions, I spoke with classmates who also were vo-tech students, and most agreed that their decision was the correct one. If not still working in that trade, the vo-tech education gave them more time to decide where to go next. A number of them used that skill to enter the military in the same career field. Many continued in a similar or related career fields. Other classmates who took the standard academic program and either did not finish college or choose not to attend college said they wished they would have chosen a votech program to acquire a skill and a job after graduation. Once again, this was an excellent editorial, and I hope that the governor and the Michigan legislature and educators rethink the present system and include this in future agendas. Karl Ost, Hastings Girls Night Out returns next week Up to 1,000 visitors are again expected in downtown Hastings Thursday, Oct. 4, when the Hastings Downtown Business Team again hosts Girls Night Out. The event is held in May and October of each year and offers visitors the chance to shop, dine and explore downtown Hastings. The event begins at 5 p.m. and will feature specialty items of area merchants and restaurants and will showcase gift basket silent auctions and menu and drink specials throughout town. Participants will see new products and services offered by merchants in downtown Hastings. The Business Team is a committee of the Barry County Chamber of Commerce that works in partnership with the Hastings Downtown Development Authority to host the Girls Night Out events. “Since the last Girls Night Out event in May, there have been a number of local businesses that have expanded and multiple new retailers opening up shop,” noted Sue Otto, owner of Previously Pink. “It’s an exciting time for downtown Hastings, and we love to share the evening.” The October Girls Night Out event is themed “Join the Fight on Girls Night” in an effort to enhance awareness of breast cancer and to honor those who have been affected. All funds raised during the silent auction of the gift baskets at each participating merchant will be donated to the Barry-Eaton District Health Department and earmarked for a program to provide low- or no-cost mammograms to local women in need. T-shirts commemorating the evening will be available for sale at many of the participating merchant locations for $13 to $15. Businesses interested in participating in Girls Night Out can download a registration form on the chamber’s online event calendar, www.mibarry.com/tourism. For more information, call the Barry County Chamber of Commerce 269-945-2454. State News Roundup Local leaders split over state’s emergency manager law Less than half (38 percent) of Michigan’s local leaders support the state’s emergency manager law, while about one-third (30 percent) oppose it; the rest are neutral or unsure, according to a University of Michigan survey. Other findings in the poll by the U-M’s Ford School of Public Policy indicate that a majority (53 percent) of those who feel fairly well informed about the law think it would be effective at helping to protect or restore the fiscal health of Michigan’s local governments. The emergency manager law, one of the most controversial reforms of the Gov. Rick Snyder administration and the state Legislature, according to a press release issued Mondy by U-Michigan News Service, took effect in March 2011. The law expands powers available to emergency managers, under certain circumstances, to reject, modify or terminate collective-bargaining agreements; shrink or void decision-making powers of local elected officials; sell a local jurisdiction’s assets and more. Public Act 4, as is it otherwise known, has been suspended, pending a referendum on the November ballot. The poll, part of the Michigan Public Policy Survey series, was conducted April 9 to June 18 and involved surveys sent as hard copy and the Internet to top elected and appointed officials in all counties, cities, villages and townships in Michigan. A total of 1,329 jurisdictions returned valid surveys, resulting in a 72 percent response rate. The survey had a margin of error of 1.43 percentage points either way. The survey can be found online, http://closup.umich.edu/michigan-public-policy-survey/19/michiganslocal-leaders-are-divided-over-the-statesemergency-manager-law/ MDARD awarded multiple food safety grants The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has been awarded three Food and Drug Administration food safety grants that will provide funding for food and feed safety and animal health projects, according to a press release issued Sept. 25. MDARD will use the funding to support activities in three areas. The first grant will improve Michigan’s ability to coordinate emergency response actions when unsafe foods are identified. This builds on MDARD’s Rapid Response Team Implementation Project, a multi-disciplinary team of specialists who respond to food and feed outbreaks. The second grant supports MDARD activities to reduce antibiotic residue violations in dairy cattle, implement risk-based feed inspection activities, and develop best practices for an emerging aquaponics industry. The third grant will help MDARD to develop an electronic learning management system used at the state and local levels to improve record keeping and ensure compliance with national food program standards. “The FDA food safety grants awarded to MDARD demonstrate our dedication to improving food and feed safety practices to protect public and animal health,” said MDARD Director Jamie Clover Adams. “These grants will enable us to continue to work with local, federal and other state agencies to improve these practices and our response to food emergencies.” MDARD will share best practices and lessons learned throughout Michigan, the Great Lakes region, and across the country to benefit food safety and animal health efforts nationwide, she said. For more information about FDA’s national integrated food safety system, visit www.fda.gov/fsma. For more information about MDARD’s food, feed and animal health programs, visit www.michigan.gov/mdard. HASTINGS NAIL SPA 1450 W. M-43 Hwy., Suite #2, Hastings 269-953-1015 ENING P O D GRAN IAL! C SPE OFsF e rvic e S 20A% ll 15 er 1b o t c O • • • • Manicures Pedicures Shellac We specialize in Pink-n-White • And more! Hours: M-F 9:30-7:00 • Sat 9:30-5:00 The Thornapple Players will present SHAKESPEARE’S COMEDY A Midsummer Night’s Dream on October 10 is dress rehearsal but open to the public-all seats are $5 and October 11, 12, 13 at 7:00 pm and October 14 at 2:00 pm at the Barry Community Enrichment Center Located at 231 South Broadway (formerly Leason Sharpe Hall) in Hastings Tickets available at the door or from Progressive Graphics Tickets are $8 for adults and $6 for senior citizens (62 and over) and students. 07610463 Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • To the editor: This is a reminder for all concerned residents of Baltimore, Assyria, Johnstown, and Maple Grove townships to reinstate our very experienced, totally honest and hard-working county commissioner. Please write in Jeff van Nortwick’s name on the November ballot, remembering to fill in the oval to the right of name. Re-elect Jeff Van Nortwick and watch the continued superior representation he will provide for us in the years ahead in Barry County. True public servants and political “watch dogs” like Jeff are rare. Let’s hang on to him. To the editor: I wholeheartedly agree with Fred Jacobs’ editorial in the Sept. 20 Banner. A full-time vocational-technical is a necessary high school program. Many young people are not college material after graduation. Also, many college graduates are leaving college with no marketable skills. I am a product of a vocational program. I graduated in auto mechanics in 1956 from Allentown High School, Allentown, Pa. It was a four-year program, consisting of alternating three-week periods of academic studies and vocational studies. AHS’s vo-tech program has changed over the years, but it is still going strong. My senior year I worked in a local auto garage during the three-week vo-tech periods, and continued there for a year after graduation. It was followed by four years in the Air Force, then a bachelor of science degree in engineering from a co-op college. By taking the vocational program when I had no plans or motivation to attend college, it gave me a skill, as well as more time to 77571259 IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV Keep political Vocational programs provide watchdog more options for students in office �Page 6 — Thursday, September 27, 2012 — The Hastings Banner See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits Worship Together… Area Obituaries Beatrice Lorraine (Hoag) Rankin Ellen L. White Judy May Bradley 77571157 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Rev. Ryan Wieland. Sundays - 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Service; Sunday School and Nursery available during both services (Summer Schedule - Adult Sunday School: 9 a.m., Worship & Children’s Programs 10 a.m.) Youth Group, Covenant Prayer, Choir, Chimes, Praise Band, Quilting Group, Community Breakfasts and more! Call the church office at (269) 721-8077 (M/W/F 9 a.m.-12 p.m.), e-mail office@mei.net or visit www.countrychapelumc.org <http://www.countrychapelumc.org/> for more information SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 . CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 8:45 a.m. Traditional Worship; 10 a.m. Refreshments; 10:45 a.m. Contemporary Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Youth Pastor Eric Gillespie. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. for children and youth, and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Junior and Senior High Youth Group 6:00 p.m. , and several adult small group opportunities. Wednesday Mid-Week Pioneers at 6:30 p.m.: Pioneer Club, 4 years through 5th grade. Adults: Marriage Enrichment class, Women’s Prayer Group and a Men’s Bible Study. Thursday: Senior Adult (50+) Bible Study at 10 a.m. and lunch at Wendy’s, 11:30 a.m. Third Thursday Brunch at 9:30 a.m. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Sunday, September 30 - Worship Service 10 a.m. Sunday School 8:45 a.m. September 30 - 5th Sunday One Worship at 10 a.m.; Chili CookOff after Service; Men’s Alcoholics Anonymous 7 p.m. October 1 Spiritual AA 7:30 p.m. October 2 Brothers of Grace 7 p.m. October 3 - Wordwatchers Bible Study 10 a.m.; God’s Children 5:30-7 p.m.; Sarah Circle Women’s Potluck. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-9459414 or 945-2645, fax 269-9452698. Pastor Amy Luckey. http://www.discover-grace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot.com. Friday - 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday - 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday 4 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Lauer Family Funeral Homes 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings Fiberglass Products 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 BATTLE CREEK, MI - Beatrice Lorraine (Hoag) Rankin, also known as “Pood”, age 86, of Battle Creek, died Saturday, September 15, 2012 at the Calhoun County Medical Care Facility. Lorraine was born October 29, 1925, in Battle Creek, to Clyde and Hester Mae (Wilson) Hoag, and had been a lifelong resident. Lorraine had been employed as a cook for the Pleasantview Elementary School and later for Pennfield High School, retiring in 1973. She is a member of the Country Chapel United Methodist Church of Dowling, the Red Hat Ladies Society, and the Bedford Lioness Club. Lorraine enjoyed quilting, needlepoint, and crafting of any kind. She is survived by a daughter, Dianne Gerber, of Delton; a son, Dennis (Betty) Rankin, of Battle Creek. Lorraine is also survived by her grandchildren, Todd (Chris) Gerber, Michael (Teresa) Rankin, Kelli Slocum, Annette (Jeffrey) Spindler and eight great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband Thornley R. Rankin, who died June 14, 1993. Also preceding Lorraine are her sisters, Audrey Black and Oma Chester; brothers, Donald, Lewis, Ray, LaDare, and Larry. Funeral services were held Tuesday September 18, 2012 at the Country Chapel United Methodist Church, 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling. Memorials may be given to the Country Chapel or the American Cancer Society. Please visit Lorraine’s webpage at www.bachmanhebble.com. HASTINGS, MI - Ellen L. White, age 96, of Hastings, passed away Thursday, September 20, 2012 at Thornapple Manor in Hastings. She was born November 23, 1915 in Lansing, the daughter of George and Anna (Bouner) Nihart. Ellen attended Lansing Eastern High School, graduating in 1933. She worked as a secretary in the Bath School System and for many years at the Michigan Department of Health. She was a quilter and volunteered at the Dreamland Villa Library in Mesa, AZ. Ellen and husband Robert lived at Dreamland Villa in Mesa, AZ for 33 years, prior to moving to Hastings. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Robert; son, Robert; granddaughter, Karen Altoft and great grandson, Colin Altoft. Ellen is survived by her daughter and sonin-law, Marjorie and Kenneth Radant of Hastings; grandson, Steve (Sue) Radant of Hastings and granddaughter, Joellyn (Kevin) Schipper of Allegan; grandson, Robert White of Savannah, GA; five great grandchildren, Stephany (Kevin) Houseman, Jillian Altoft, Philip Schipper, Jenna Radant and Sara Radant. Respecting Ellen’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a family graveside service will be held at a later date at Mount Hope Cemetery in Lansing. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of ones choice. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guestbook or to leave a message or memory to the family. CHARLOTTE, MI - Judy May Bradley, age 69, of Charlotte, passed away Wednesday, September 19, 2012, in Lansing. Judy was born on April 22, 1943, in Battle Creek, the daughter of Donald Lewis and Dorothy Rosemond (Martin) Bradley and twin sister of Jerry Bradley. She exhibited a strong work ethic throughout her life, working on the C&O car ferries in Ludington, in her early years, and as a nurse’s aid in medical care for 35 years. She loved animals, especially her dogs Kali and Rodi, and she was an avid fast pitch softball player, but, above all, she valued her time with family. Her favorite times were family picnics and Christmas gatherings. She is survived by her twin brother, Jerry (Dee) Bradley of Hastings; several nieces and nephews; her special friend and soul mate, Joan Adleman; and Joan’s children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren who she considered as family. Judy is predeceased by her parents; brothers, Richard Daryl and Robert Wayne Bradley; and her sister, Donna Jean McGhan. A funeral service was held on Friday, September 21, 2012 at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Rich Mitterling officiating. Memorials are suggested to Eaton Community Palliative (Hospice) Care or the Animal Foster Home. Arrangements by Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.prayfuneral.com. Kathryn A. Campbell Richard J. Guenther Richard J. Guenther passed away Thursday, September 20, 2012. He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty, with whom he had nine surviving children, Tricia Reed, Annette (Bill) Markovich, Charles (Anne) Guenther, Greta (Bill Grover) Guenther, Kris Guenther, John (Sherry) Guenther, Bob Guenther, Jeff (Julie) Guenther, Buni (Marty) Stachurski. He is survived by his loving wife, Joyce, and her three children, Jeff (Karen) Newhouse, Jill (Rich) Frieling, Joel (Pam) Newhouse. Along with their children, Dick and Joyce have 26 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren thus completing a wonderful family. Also surviving is his brother, Charles. Dick served in the United States Marines from 1942-1946 including overseas at Iwo Jima. Upon discharge, he attended Eastern Michigan University obtaining a B.S. degree in 1950. He completed his Masters at the University of Michigan in 1952. He taught special education children for three years at the Wayne County Training School following a three year term as Director of a Kellogg Foundation Research Study for handicapped children in Michigan. Dick served as a consultant in the Michigan Department of Education from 1956 to 1958. Dick joined the Hastings Area Schools January 1, 1958 and was appointed Superintendent of Schools January 1, 1961, serving in that capacity until his retirement December 31, 1982. Over a period of the next two years, he served as an adjunct professor at Michigan State University, Western Michigan University and Grand Valley State University. Locally, Dick was active in Kiwanis, Chamber of Commerce, and Community Friends. Statewide, Dick served on the State Committee for Special Education and the Committee for Financing Special Education serving as chairman three times. The family will receive visitors Friday, October 12 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. at Lauer Family Funeral Home-Wren Chapel located at 1401 N. Broadway in Hastings. A church service will be held Saturday, October 13, 2012 at 11 a.m. at Hope United Methodist Church, 2920 S. M-37 Hwy, Hastings. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be given to the Hasting Education Enrichment Foundation (HEEF), c/o the Hastings Area Board of Education, or to Hope United Methodist Church. Please share a memory with Richard’s family at www.lauerfh.com FAMILY FUNERAL HOMES DOWLING, MI - Kathryn A. Campbell, of Dowling, passed away September 20, 2012. Kathryn was born June 14, 1939 in Battle Creek, the daughter of the late Bill and Judith (Haugh) Whalen. Kathryn worked for Production Plating Plastics in Richland and was a foster parent for over 150 children. She loved fishing, hunting, bowling, roller skating, stain glass work, crafts and was an avid U of M fan. She enjoyed traveling to Silver Lake and the Sand Dunes; and especially traveling to Canada. Kathryn is survived by her children, Michael (Theresa) Campbell, Timothy Campbell, Patrick (Jessica) Campbell and Rebecca Campbell; a brother, Bill Whalen; a sister, Judy (Stan) Whitney; a sister-in-law, Donna (Albert) Ashey; 13 grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her former husbands’ Arcelious Campbell and Arthur Smith. A memorial service will be conducted, Saturday, October 13, 2012 at 1 p.m. Pastors Albert Hashely and Jeff Worden officiating. Interment will take place in Cedar Creek Cemetery. Those who wish to make memorial contributions are asked to consider the needs of the family. Please visit www.williamsgoresfuneral. com to view Kathryn’s online guest book or to leave a condolence message for the family. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 27, 2012 — Page 7 Gerald “Jerry” L. Page Middleville United Methodist Church on Friday, September 28, from 3 to 7 p.m. A memorial service will be conducted at the Middleville United Methodist Church at 3 p.m. on Saturday, September 29, 2012. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Gerald L. Page Education Scholarship Fund. Please contact the Thornapple Area Enrichment Foundation. http://www.thornapplefoundation.org/. Please visit www.beelergoresfuneral.com to view Jerry's online guest book or to leave a condolence message for the family. Lynne Bernice Mead Newborn Babies Tripp-Mead united in marriage On June 2, 2012, Hallie Merritt Tripp of Kalamazoo and James Christopher Mead of Battle Creek were united in marriage in Pennfield, Michigan. Hallie is a graduate of Michigan State University and is currently employed by Family and Children's Services. James is a graduate of Olivet College and currently attends graduate school at Western Michigan University while being employed by Kay Jewelers. The happy couple resides in Kalamazoo. Marriage Licenses James Halliwill Zachary, Delton and Shelby Lynn Webb, Hastings. Robert William Lawrence, Hickory Corners and Jessica Lyn Carrier, Hickory Corners. Eric Matthew Christman, Belleville and Julia Lucille Thomas, Hastings. Eric Lynd Chase, Hastings and Brianna Helen Ferguson, Silverwood. FAMILY FUNERAL HOMES Layton Vance Wolters, born at Metro Hospital, Grand Rapids on July 23, 2012 at 12:02 p.m. to Luke and Ashley Wolters of Middleville. Weighing 7 lbs. 14 ozs. and 22 inches long. ***** Bentley Jace, born at Pennock Hospital on September 6, 2012 at 10:20 p.m. to Larry and Amanda Rowan of Hastings. Weighing 8 lbs. 12 ozs. and 21 inches long. ***** Clara Fae, born at Pennock Hospital on September 6, 2012 at 10:10 to Timothy and Cassandra Zook of Alto. Weighing 7 lbs. 5 ozs. and 19 inches long. ***** Aubrie Jene, born at Pennock Hospital on September 10, 2012 at 1:16 to Kellie and Casey Terwilliger of Hastings. Weighing 6 lbs. 10 ozs. and 18 inches long. ***** Domenick McClellan, born at Pennock Hospital on September 11, 2012 at 7:17 a.m. to Alexandra and Charles Stuck of Middleville. Weighing 7 lbs. 15 ozs. and 20.5 inches long. ***** GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. CPR, FIRST AID, AED TRAINING Saturday, October 6 at 8:30 a.m. Hope United Methodist Church 2920 S. M-37 at M-79 Training carries 2 yr. American Heart Assoc. certification Instructor: Tim O’Connor, AHA BLS Certified Cost: Freewill Offering ONLY Licensed / Insured / Local 77571269 Call Scott 517-290-5556 • 877-448-1548 FREE Consultation & Estimates! ALSO EGRESS WINDOWS / MOLD REMEDIATION 77571263 269-967-8241 Certified Financial Planning 06790990 HASTINGS, MI - Lynne Bernice Mead, age 73, of Hastings, went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, September 18, 2012. She was born on August 10, 1939 in Goshen, IN the daughter of Morris and Lillian (Anderson) Wood. Lynne graduated from high school in Bronson. Lynne married Richard Mead on October 3, 1956. She was very dedicated to her family, both as a loving wife and mother. Lynne loved buttons and started her collection when she was given her Grandmother Nellie Wood’s button jar. She became an avid collector and gave many history lessons in her grandchildren’s classrooms. She was a member of the West Michigan Buttoneers and the National Button Scoiety. She won numerous awards for her button displays. Lynne was preceded in death by her parents, Morris and Lillian Wood and brother, Dennis Wood. She is survived by her husband, Richard Mead of Hastings; son, Rick Mead of Hastings; daughters, Jody (Brad) Peterson of Hastings and Jenny Mead and Daniel Henry Jr.; grandchildren, Matthew, James and Lynsey Mead, Pam (Rick) Volosky, David (Shelby) and Michael Peterson; great-grandchildren, Constance and Sofia Volosky; siblings, Nancy Wood, Carole (Barry) Bostrom, Rick (Peggy) Wood and many nieces and nephews. A private memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Mel Trotter Ministries. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Inc., please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to leave a message or memory to the family. GUN LAKE, MI - Richard “Dick” Lawrence passed away suddenly at home on Gun Lake on September 24, 2012. He was born at Pennock Hospital in Hastings to Willard and Kate Lawrence on December 2, 1948. Dick graduated from Hastings High School and Michigan State University with a MBA and was employed with Whirlpool Corporation for 28 years as a Financial Analyst. He was an avid Michigan State University football and basketball fan and loved living on Gun Lake. Surviving are his wife of 40 years, Barbara; siblings, Judy Jones of Charleston, SC, Joanne Hermann of Gaithersburg, MD, Donald (Lhyza) Lawrence of Knoxville, TN, Stephen Lawrence of Muskegon; and several nieces and nephews. Dick’s family will receive friends at Lauer Family Funeral Homes-Wren Chapel, located at 1401 N. Broadway in Hastings on Thursday, September 27, 2012 from 10 a.m. until time of services at 11a.m. with Rev. Dr. C. Jeffery Garrison officiating. Private Interment in Riverside Cemetery will take place following the services. In lieu, of flowers the family requests that donations be made in Dick’s name to Barry Community Foundation. Please share a memory with Dick’s family at www.lauerfh.com. 77571096 Randy Teegardin, CFP.® Hastings City Bank Trust and Investment Group 269-945-2401 150 W. Court St. Hastings, MI 49058 Investment opportunities include non deposit investments which are: Not FDIC Insured Not Bank Guaranteed May Lose Value ® The John D. Heacock TWO BROTHERS AND A TENT For All Your Tent Rental Needs Tables and chairs available. 77564841 Call: Dan McKinney 269-838-7057 or Tom McKinney 269-838-3842 77566915 MIDDLEVILLE, MI - John D. Heacock, of Middleville, passed away September 24, 2012. John was born November 29, 1969 in Battle Creek, the son of Dave and Ginger (Figel) Clark Heacock. John married Gloria Ann Hamstra on July 31, 2009. John worked for Lacks Industries for 20 years. He enjoyed golfing, hunting, fishing, and was a wonderful loving family man. John is survived by his wife, Gloria Heacock; children, Josh Heacock, Christina Gose, Sheinah Hamstra, Anthony Hamstra Cherry, Chelsea Case, Alexander Heacock and Joe Kline; grandchildren, Breanna and Kylee Paniwozik; parents, Dave Heacock and Ginger Clark; brothers, Bill (Angie) Brooks and Derric (Stacy) Heacock; sister, Penny Heacock; special aunt and uncle, Sharon and Giles Watson; special cousin, Kim Siedelberg (Ryan). John's family will receive friends Friday, September 28, 2012, 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. at Beeler-Gores Funeral Home, where a funeral service will be conducted Saturday, September 29, 2012 at 11 a.m., with Pastor Keith Coffee officiating. Memorial contributions to the family or Barry Community Hospice will be appreciated. Please visit beelergoresfuneral.com to view John's online guest book or to leave a condolence message for the family. BENEFIT for Ken DeMott Birch Run and Bronner’s: November 3rd 9:30am - 3:30pm Chicago: November 10th Sunday, September 30 Barry County Conservation Club 1180 Cook Rd., Hastings, MI • Archery Tournament 50/50 • Horseshoe Tournament • Silent Auction (To Donate Contact: Missty 269.838.7795} • Raffle - CVA - Optima .50 Cal Muzzleloader Inline 07610408 • Catered Food Contact: Kim DeMott for more information 269.804.5253 Branson: November 12-16 and November 26 - December 1 Mountain Christmas: November 13-18 Country Christmas: December 10-13 Florida 2013: January 21 - February 3 and February 4-23 Call or email for more information or a complete brochure! 517.647.2050 or 855.219.0085 hartzlertours@gmail.com Complete tour information can be found at: www. hartzlertours.com Don’t delay, tours are filling fast, inquire today! 06792231 WAYLAND, MI - Gerald (Jerry) Page, of Wayland, passed away on September 26, 2012. Jerry was a World War II hero and leader of the community in Middleville and the Gun Lake area for the past 60 years. Through his life in education, coaching and business, Jerry had a positive impact on the lives of thousands of young men and women from the West Michigan area. Jerry was born in Reed City, on October 1, 1925 to Glen and Esther Page. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Raymond; and his daughter, Vicki. He is survived by his wife, Lois (Wilson) and children Terry Page, Randi (Dan) Moran, Thomas (Bonnie) Page, Karen (Paul) Kennedy and Steven (Valerie) Page. Jerry also has eight grandchildren, Wendy, Devin, Colin, Claire, Abbey, TJ, Samantha and Maddie, and seven great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Jerry graduated from Reed City High School in 1943 and was already exhibiting leadership qualities. He was a star athlete on the football, basketball and baseball teams, twice starred in the school play and was a member of the student government. After graduating from high school, Jerry enlisted in the Army at the age of 17 and served in the Army Air Corps. While he initially wanted to be a pilot, he chose to go to gunnery school in order to get up in the air sooner. He flew multiple bombing missions with the 414 bombardment squadron of the 97th bombardment group in the second wing of the 15th Air Force. Based in Italy, the crew flew B-17 bombing missions over Germany and Austria. He was the ball turret gunner. He was decorated several times and very proud to have served his country during World War II. After the war, Jerry enrolled as a student at Western Michigan University. While at WMU, he met his wife Lois who was a nursing student at the time. They were married in January of 1948. He received a degree in business administration in 1950. He also gained a secondary teaching certificate in 1953 and a Masters degree in school administration in 1973. Jerry was also a successful business man. Along with his parents, Glen and Esther Page, Jerry and Lois purchased Page’s Resort in 1950. When his brother Ray returned from the Army in 1955, he, too, joined the family business. The resort was a popular destination on Gun Lake dating from the1880’s. It had a gas dock and general store that served ice cream cones. Page’s Resort also oversaw all of the concessions in Yankee Springs State Park for over 20 years. Jerry accepted a teaching position in the Thornapple Kellogg school district in 1953. During his time as a teacher, Jerry taught history, social studies, math, English, government, economics and business administration classes. In addition to teaching, he coached football and basketball and served as an assistant superintendent and business manager for the district from 1969 to 1981. He was the Superintendent of Schools for five years. He retired in 1987 after 34 years with the same school district. As a way to honor him for his dedication and years of service, the school district named the new Elementary School after him. As School Board President at the time Robert Courts said, “We decided to give the school’s name some personality and attention to someone who had dedicated his life to education.” The Gerald L. Page Elementary School was dedicated on May 7, 1989 and opened the following fall. In addition to being known as an educator, Jerry was well known throughout Middleville, the Grand Rapids area and the entire state of Michigan as a football coach. Serving as the assistant coach to Bob White, Jerry oversaw the defense of Middleville’s very successful football program from the fall of 1961 to 1981. In that time, the team won two State Championships, 13 conference titles and had five undefeated seasons. Jerry was inducted into the Michigan Coaches Hall of Fame in 1990. Jerry was also involved in many community organizations. He was president of the Middleville Rotary Club, president of the Gun Lake Chamber of Commerce, president of the Thornapple Kellogg Education Association and secretary-treasurer of the Grand Valley School Business Officials. Jerry was an avid sports fan and sports participant. He belonged to a Yankee Springs golf league for many years. He loved to watch and root for Michigan football, the Detroit Lions and the Detroit Tigers. He loved boating and long walks with Lois through the woods of Yankee Springs. The family will greet visitors at the Richard “Dick” Lawrence �Page 8 — Thursday, September 27, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of by Elaine Garlock The Depot Complex will be open this weekend with hours 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 29 and 2 to 5 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 30, with the special exhibits of memorabilia pertaining to Lakewood High School since 1962. Many fields are very brown. It will soon be time for harvest of soybeans to start, with the wide combines taking wide swaths of the crop with each trip around the fields. After the corn crop is harvested, people in the country will then be able to see their neighbors. Sets of farm buildings that have ben hidden from view since July when the corn reached new heights, will again be visible. Hastings gets new code compliance officer by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer It’s not about enforcement and making money on fines, but rather, the job is about education and compliance. Hastings Department of Public Services Director Tim Girrbach told the Hastings City Council Monday evening that, after an exhaustive search and much brainstorming, he has hired Bill Hanshaw as the city’s new code compliance officer who will help take the department in a new direction. “You will notice that I said compliance officer, because we have taken a different approach to our code enforcement,” said Girrbach. “That is what I mean by much ‘brain-storming.’ We’re taking a more proactive, educational and personable approach to our code compliance; that’s what we’re calling it now. Our goal is to gain compliance with the code, not necessarily to make money.” Hanshaw, who has already been on the job for a week, agreed with Girrbach that his goal is to be proactive. “I’ve been quite busy. Actually, the first day I was here I wrote five citations — it was all one individual, but there were five different code violations, and it was like the fourth or fifth time that we have dealt with this person on the same thing so, our ultimate choice was to write the citations,” Hanshaw said. “We’ve also had some positive feedback.” In addition, he said that when he saw garage sale signs on telephone poles or on stakes in the right-of-way, he would remove the signs and take them to the owners and explain that city ordinance prohibits garage sale signs on public property. “Most of the time, 90 percent of the time so far, they have no clue of what the ordinance is, none whatsoever,” Hanshaw said. “They don’t know they are only allowed three garage sales per year. They don’t know that [signs] aren’t supposed to be in the right-of-way. So, I educate them. I also tell them, when I do that, that I will still send out a letter to them because inevitably people will tell you, ‘I’ll take care of it,’ and then they don’t. So you have to have some sort of paperwork.” Hanshaw said he hopes to include information on city ordinances in the newsletters the city sends out with the monthly sewer and Bill Hanshaw water bills and give presentations to local groups and organizations. “We are also in the process of getting thank-you cards written up so when somebody is in compliance, we’re going to send them a thank-you card,” said Hanshaw. “People like getting thank-you cards; they hate getting letters in the mail telling that they have to do something. But [if] they accomplish the goal, we’re going to send them a thank-you card. “I’m an education-type person; I want to educate the people,” he said. “I’ve read with other cities, when they take a proactive approach to the ordinances, they’ve actually increased their property values. That’s my goal.” Hanshaw has been a resident of Rutland Township for 42 years and currently serves as trustee on the township board. He is a retired unemployment investigator for the State of Michigan. He and his wife have two grown children. EDWARD JONES 401(k) loans: The last resort? As you’re well aware, we’re living in difficult economic times. Consequently, you may be forced to make some financial moves you wouldn’t normally undertake. One such move you might be considering is taking out a loan from your 401(k) plan — but is this a good idea? Of course, if you really need the money, and you have no alternatives, you may need to consider a 401(k) loan. Some employers allow 401(k) loans only in cases of financial hardship, although the definition of “hardship” can be flexible. But many employers allow these loans for just about any purpose. To learn the borrowing requirements for your particular plan, you’ll need to contact your plan administrator. Generally, you can borrow up to $50,000, or one-half of your vested plan benefits, whichever is less. You’ve got up to five years to repay your loan, although the repayment period can be longer if you use the funds to buy a primary residence. And you pay yourself back with interest. However, even though it’s easy to access your 401(k) through a loan, there are some valid reasons for avoiding this move, if at all possible. Here are a few to consider: • You might reduce your retirement savings. A 401(k) is designed to be a retirement savings vehicle. Your earnings potentially grow on a tax-deferred basis, so your money can accumulate faster than if it were placed in an investment on which you paid taxes every year. But if you take out a 401(k) loan, you’re removing valuable resources from your account — and even though you’re paying yourself back, you can never regain the time when your money could have been growing. • You might reduce your contributions. Once you start making loan payments, you might feel enough of a financial pinch that you feel forced to reduce the amount you contribute to your 401(k). • You may create a taxable situation. Failure to pay back loans according to the specified terms can create a taxable distribution and possibly subject the distribution to a 10% penalty. • You may have to repay the loan quickly. As long as you continue working for the same employer, your repayment terms likely will not change. But if you leave your employment, either voluntarily or not, you’ll probably have to repay the loan in full within 60 days — and if you don’t, the remaining balance will be taxable. Plus, if you’re under age 59_, you’ll also have to pay a 10% penalty tax. Considering these drawbacks to taking out a 401(k) loan, you may want to look elsewhere for money when you need it. But the best time to put away this money is well before you need it. Try to build an emergency fund containing at least six to 12 months’ worth of living expenses, and keep the money in a liquid vehicle. With this money, you’re primarily interested in protecting your principal, not in earning a high return. A 401(k) is a great retirement savings vehicle. But a 401(k) loan? Not always a good idea. Do what you can to avoid it. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 34.01 +.72 AT&T 38.06 +0.40 BP PLC 43.01 +0.14 CMS Energy Corp 23.36 +0.27 Coca-Cola Co 37.68 -0.94 Eaton 46.23 -1.42 Family Dollar Stores 63.16 -0.37 Fifth Third Bancorp 15.56 -0.08 Flowserve CP 128.64 -3.24 Ford Motor Co. 10.09 -0.33 General Mills 40.11 -0.80 General Motors 23.52 -0.91 Intel Corp. 22.54 -0.83 Kellogg Co. 51.86 +1.56 McDonald’s Corp 92.86 -0.22 Pfizer Inc. 24.84 +0.83 Ralcorp 73.00 +0.72 Sears Holding 55.25 -5.75 Spartan Motors 5.10 -0.19 Spartan Stores 15.70 -0.67 Stryker 55.98 +0.05 TCF Financial 11.58 -0.36 Walmart Stores 74.26 +0.31 Gold $1762.05 -9.25 Silver $33.77 +$1.02 Dow Jones Average 13,457 -107 Volume on NYSE 703M +112M Middleville alpaca farmers help educate public with open house Sept. 29-30 by Julie Makarewicz Staff Writer John and Carol Van Prooyen have fallen in love with raising alpacas and want to help educate others about the fiber-producing animals. Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 29 and 30, the Van Prooyens will open their Duncan Creek Farm in Middleville to guests as part of an educational campaign by the alpaca breeders across the United States and Canada. The farm is located at 5510 Stimpson Road, about one mile north of Middleville, on the corner of M-37 and Stimpson Road. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days, guests can learn about alpacas, view and feel their exquisite fleece, tour the farm, get a taste of honey from beehives, and see antique tractors. Carol said they got their first alpacas about a year ago and have grown their herd now to John and Carol Van Prooyen will share their knowledge of alpacas during an open house just north of Middleville this weekend. 77571197 77571200 77571194 77571191 five females and three males. They are breeding the females and expect offspring, called crias, in the spring. “We started out wanting to find something so we didn’t have to mow so much of the property,” said Carol of their 10-acre farm. “We thought about donkeys or miniature horses or goats, and then we stumbled on alpacas and we love them.” Carol said the alpacas are easy to care for, require little grain, make no noise, have no smell and are very neat animals. “They are so fun to watch and they each have their own personalities,” she said. They are content to feed mostly on grass and hay with little grain and don’t require large areas. They also don’t jump or climb, so fencing is minimal. “They are good, hardy animals and can stand the winters easily,” said Carol. “We’re definitely hooked. We love them. They make great pasture pets, and we can sell the fiber.” While the alpacas are in the same family as camels and llamas, Carol said alpacas are much more gentle-mannered than llamas and about half the size, ranging in weight from 100 to 250 pounds. The alpaca fiber is highly sought by knitters and fiber artists who use it for hand spinning, weaving, knitting, crocheting, felting and sewing. In ancient time, alpaca fiber was known as the “Fiber of Gods.” It is highly desired for its luxury, softness, durability, warmth, and it is hypoallergenic. According to the Alpaca Association, the fiber is as soft as cashmere and lighter and warmer than wool. It also doesn’t contain lanolin. Alpacas are shorn once a year, usually in the spring in Michigan. Alpacas were brought to the United States from South America in the 1980s as livestock. In 1987, breeders formed the Alpaca Owners and Breeders Association. The association helps promote public awareness and membership appreciation of alpacas’ unique qualities, educate members on care and breeding alpacas, promote the growth of the industry, foster establishment of the breed, and establish and maintain an alpaca registry. Michigan is home to nearly 8,000 registered alpacas, ranking ninth in the United States. John said they’ve learned a lot in the past year about raising alpacas and they hope to try showing some of their animals at competitions later this year. He also said he is excited for spring and expected births. “They’re just really unique and fun animals to have, and they’re very easy to keep,” he said. “They’re great animals, and we’ve just really enjoyed raising them.” GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 27, 2012 — Page 9 This photo of Kenneth Kelsey and Dorothy Lathrop was taken on their wedding day, June 24, 1939. Grandma Remembers: The Big Old Kitchen Table, part IV This is the final in a series of memories written by Dorothy (Lathrop) Kelsey of her childhood years in Barryville. Born in 1917, the youngest child of Egbert H. Lathrop and Rhoda Boone, Dorothy now resides at Thornapple Manor. She wrote “Grandma Remembers: The Big Old Kitchen Table” in 2001. ***** Our neighborhood was pretty much centered around the church, even the school Christmas programs were presented there. They were quite the productions at least as children, we thought these were great events. When I was smaller, I always sat with my folks during church service and of course, I was curious who and what was behind me, but Papa never wanted me to watch what was going on behind me so he would turn me around. Finally, I go so weary and bored that I went to sleep, and first thing I knew it was time to stand for the final song. By that time, my feet and legs were still so asleep it was hard to stand. I can still feel the prickling sensation trying to wake up my legs. We had great Sunday school picnics either at “Coles Landing” at Thornapple Lake or at Fasset’s woods by the creek. We could go swimming at either place, and the picnics were always well attended with lots to eat. Many of Dorothy (Lathrop) Kelsey’s stories involved her brothers Hubert (left) and Ferris. PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PARTIES PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a Public Hearing will be held by the Prairieville Township Planning Commission on October 17, 2012 at 7:00 P.M. at the Prairieville Township Hall, 10115 S. Norris Road, within the Township. Christmas was not so commercialized then as much as now. We hung up our socks Christmas Eve and next morning we might find an orange, a few walnuts, and one small gift. One year I received an embroidery hoop, a small one, and I still have it. One year my dear cousin Julia gave me a lacy celluloidfolding fan. I still have that, too. Julia did much for all three of us children and we loved her dearly. We carried our lunches to school usually – a clean shiny lard tin with wire handle; most everyone’s were the same and all on the shelves at the front of the school. One day, since we in first grade, we would get out a few minutes earlier than the mass of 15 or so others, I had what I thought was my lunch, and even huckleberry pie. I didn’t remember Mama having pie around that morning, so, after I had eaten, I asked Ferris did he have huckleberry pie? No. Well later, I found I had eaten Harold Higdon’s lunch. He never admonished me for it. He was really a nice boy. I imagine he was disappointed. A teacher’s pay at that time ranged from $20 to $30 a month; $35 was top pay. Mother often said if we could clear only $1 a day we would be well off. All kids went barefoot in the summer, and we all waited for a nice spring day so we could put aside our shoes to wear only on Sundays. It took a few tender “ouching” days to get our feet toughened up to the gravel roads, but soon we were running and not even feeling the sharp stones. Our school had one paste container since we could not each one afford individual containers. Sometimes we made our own paste out of flour and water, or even a boiled potato cut in half worked fairly well. I don’t ever remember having turkey meat until after I was married. I do remember once, having a whole small roasted pig at a family reunion at Uncle Will and Aunt Grace Hyde’s place. It was perfectly roasted and I suppose beautiful. It even had the head on and looked like a live only very brown and all smooth and shiny. I didn’t eat any because to me a pig was something smelly, muddy and ate that terrible slop and mash that stunk to high heavens. I suppose one of our “kissing cousins” had brought it and I remember all the “oohs “and “ahs,” but that didn’t change the real object. Our family was great on family reunions, cousins drove miles by either train or car to attend. One exciting time was when Hubert bought a motorcycle to ride to work. He brought it home and was showing us all how he could maneuver on it. Well, it’s a good thing we had a big front yard since he was confused as to which way to turn the gas on the handle and he kept going around and around the big maple in the front yard until it made us all dizzy. He was turning it around the opposite way and kept going faster and faster. It ws scary for a few minutes, but we all laughed afterward. Our life was very simple and uncomplicated in those days. We were happy and easily amused at the common and unadorned lifestyle that everyone lived – really down to earth. Mother and Dad took us children to a play in Hastings when I was small; it was called “Uncle Tom’s Cabin.” It would not be shown today, but I remember little Eva and the fero- PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the item(s) to be considered at this public hearing include, in brief, the following: 1. A request by Michael and Barbra Miller, 5785 Higgins St, Kalamazoo, MI 49048 for a Special Land Use Permit for the temporary placement of a recreational vehicle on a vacant lot pursuant to section 4.4-“Temporary Placement of Recreational Vehicles and Tents”. The subject property is 7588 South Crooked Lake Dr. – Delton, MI 49046 – 08-12-012-023-00 and is located in R2 zoning district. 2. A request by Richard and Diane Wright, 11515 Lakeshore Dr. Plainwell, MI 49080 for a Special Land Use Permit for the construction of a 22’x32’ accessory building that is unable to meet the location requirements and maximum permitted floor space requirements pursuant to section 4.20-D “Accessory Buildings” . The subject property is 11515 Lake Shore Dr. Plainwell, MI 49080 – 08-12-320-043-00 and is located in the R2 zoning district. 3. A request by Bruce Brenn, 11283 Long Point Dr, Plainwell, MI 49080 for a Special Land Use permit for the construction of a 30’x50’ accessory building that is unable to meet the maximum permitted floor space requirements pursuant to section 4.20D “Accessory Buildings”. The subject property is located is 11283 Long Point Dr., Plainwell, MI 49080 – 08-12-290-034-20 and is located in the R2 zoning district. 4. Such other and further matters as may properly come before the Planning Commission for this meeting. All interested persons are invited to be present or submit written comments on this matter(s) to the below Township office address. Prairieville Township will provide necessary auxiliary aids and services such as signers for the hearing impaired and audiotapes of printed materials being considered at the hearing upon five (5) days notice to the Prairieville Township Clerk. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Prairieville Township Clerk at the address or telephone number set forth below. Jim Stoneburner, Township Supervisor 77571228 HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, Sept. 27 — So Many Books Book Club discusses Patricia Cornwell’s The Book of the Dead, 1 to 2 p.m.; Movie Memories celebrates cute kiddies with “National Velvet,” 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 28 — library closed for staff in-service. Monday, Oct. 1 — computer class takes on “Mousing and More,” 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 2 — toddler story time enjoys stories about lunch, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30; open chess club, 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 3 — 1st, 3rd Club has a blast with “Take Me Out to the Ball Game,” 4:15 to 5:15 p.m.; library book club discusses Suzanne Collins’ trilogy, Hunger Games, Catching Fire and Mockingjay, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Call the library for more information about any of the above, 269-945-4263. cious animals. It was a traveling concern that went from city to city. One of the big dogs got loose and came into our yard as they traveled by and Papa went out and tied it to “my post” in the trumpet vine. We all had to stay inside, since it was so big and could have been very savage. I thought it was a huge bear and it caused many a bad dream for me in the weeks to follow. The traveling show came a few hours after to claim it. You may wonder how Kenneth and I met. I worked at the J.C. Penney store, in Hastings, starting just before Christmas 1936 and had my own car, a 1929 Chevrolet Coupe with a rumble seat. I bought gas at the Triangle station where Kenneth worked, he took care of my car, we visited, he came to the store and asked me for a date, and from then on, I never went out with others. We went to the movies mostly and bought the expensive deluxe hamburgers at 15 cents, (others were 10 cents each). Movies were probably 25 cents. Kenneth used to sing a lot and it was fun just to drive along and sing. Our dates were not expensive. Kenneth’s wages were good, making $25 a week and my wages were $12.50 per week – after a year or two they went up to $17.50 a week. That was top pay for a girl, but of course that was from 8 a.m. to sometimes 10 and 11 at night. Our marriage on June 24, 1939, was at my home at 8 p.m. Ferris and Eloise stood up with us as witnesses. Hubert and Agnes and Hubert Jr. and Marleen, Ronald and Margaret Lehman, Uncle Will and Aunt Grace Hyde, Kenneth’s father and mother; Warnie and Estella Kelsey, and of course my Father and Mother were the only guests. The minister was moving the next day so we had to move it ahead a day from a Saturday to Friday. Rev. D.A. VanDoren was the minister, and he brought his wife. Aunt Grace made a rose corsage from her garden for me, and we had vases of flowers from Donna McKeown’s flower garden all over the house. Mother had worked so hard that day; I remember her mopping the kitchen floor with milk to make it shiny and then made a huge angel food cake and homemade ice cream all in one day. We froze the ice cream in an old crank freezer. The neighborhood had a large reception a week later and it was so hot, but everyone came and the yard was full. My folks had set up tables and chairs from the church. There must have been over a 100 people there. The neighbors brought cake and homemade ice cream. I remember Dr. and Arloa Lathrop being there and others from far away. Zana Day wrote up an article on the wedding and gathering for the Hastings Banner and Nashville News. I have gone from horse and buggy into a technological world that makes one’s head spin. I have gone from peaceful safe surroundings to fear on every side. From no one locking their doors to everything one owns under lock and key. I’ve gone from Prohibition to madness on the road and young children being alcoholics. I get irritated when anyone says “but Prohibition didn’t work!” But I say, “Is this working?” When I consider the changes in my lifetime I am overwhelmed. Kerosene and gas lights to electricity, from lanterns to yard lights. No longer does one need to “feel” his way in the dark and cold night to the outhouse – just walk a few feet in the warmth and switch the light; also no need to carry it or bury it. For heat we’ve gone from chopping and splitting wood or a dirty coal bin to a dial on the wall. No need to fire up the kitchen range Dorothy (Lathrop) Kelsey enjoyed spending time outside during her childhood in the Barryville area. on a hot sultry summer day to heat the heavy flat irons, now just dial the heat desired on the smooth, clean iron and steam too. In the matter of refrigeration from well pit, or if lucky enough to have have a ice box and could afford an ice block, to refrigerators at hand in the kitchen. From canning and preserving to frozen foods and deep freezers. And great changes in laundry – scrub boards to push and pull, then gasoline washers to automatic and even the materials from all wrinkled to wrinkle-free. Clotheslines to dryers; from Fels Naptha bars to any type of soap you desire. Of course, we have gone from the Palmer method of writing with pen points and ink to ballpoints and any type of scribbling. From writing by hand to computers and handwritten letters to email. The cost of postage from 1 cent to 34 cents. The progress in speed is frightening from horse and buggy to fast cars then railroads and planes from the Tin Lizzie to rockets. Technology has failed to solve our problems. None of this progress had made people any happier, more decent and honest, more loving and kind. No, I think technology has lost its goal. We are all born with the potential of evil, however, it is a choice in life what we do with that potential. I pray that my children and per chance my grandchildren may enjoy my ramblings. It has been rewarding to me and brought some joy and laughter, some tears. May you realize the era you are living in and the advantages, also the disadvantages. You have space travel to look forward to perhaps, but also the atom bomb and germ warfare to fear. Every generation has both safety and fear. I’m glad I lived in my time. And I pray that I have lived a life of preparation for the great life ahead. I could not wish a greater wish for you all to have a big old square kitchen table that you could all put your feet under and feel safe and secure and learn at that table the real and essential meaning of life and why God placed you here on earth. Always remember what we have received. RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF RUTLAND, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Planning Commission of the Charter Township of Rutland will hold a public hearing/regular meeting on Wednesday, October 17, 2012, at the Rutland Charter Township Hall, 2461 Heath Road, Hastings, Michigan, commencing at 7:30 p.m. as required under the provisions of the Township Zoning Act and the Zoning Ordinance for the Township. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the proposed item(s) to be considered at this public hearing include the following, in summary: 1. Special Exception/Land Use application from Halliday Sand & Gravel for a permit renewal to quarry and process sand and/or gravel on the property located on the West side of Hubble Road, behind 2400 Hubble Road, Parcel #08-13-028-001-00 and part of Parcel #08-13-028-002-00 which are currently zoned AG, Agricultural District. Rutland Charter Township Zoning Ordinance Section 220-14 requires a Special Use Permit for this request. 2. Such and further matters as may properly come before the Planning Commission. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Application for Special Use along with the Zoning Ordinance, Zoning Map, Land Use Plan, and Land Use Plan Map of the Township may be examined at the Township Hall at any time during regular business hours on any day except public and legal holidays from and after the publication of this Notice and until and including the day of this public hearing, and may further be examined at the public hearing to determine the exact nature of the aforementioned matters. You are invited to attend this hearing. If you are unable to attend, written comments may be submitted in lieu of a personal appearance by writing to the Township Clerk at the Township Hall, 2461 Heath Road, Hastings, MI 49058, at any time up to the date of the hearing and may be further received by the Planning Commission at said public hearing. This notice is posted in compliance with PA 267 of 1976 as amended (Open Meetings Act), MCLA 41.72a (2) (3) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Rutland Charter Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audiotapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/hearing upon reasonable notice to the Rutland Charter Township Clerk. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Rutland Charter Township Clerk by writing or calling the Township. All interested persons are invited to be present for comments and suggestions at this public hearing. 77571241 Robin J. Hawthorne, Clerk Rutland Charter Township 2461 Heath Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058 Telephone: (269) 948-2194 �Page 10 — Thursday, September 27, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Low water reveals loads of trash in Thornapple River Caledonia High School exchange student Brenda Distante, from Fano, Italy, gains some stewardship experience by participating in the cleanup. Nearly 170 volunteers scoured the Thornapple River Saturday, Sept. 15, during the 17th annual Thornapple River Clean-up. Armed with trash bags, gloves and boatloads of energy, 169 volunteers managed to collect 1,660 pounds of metal, 61 tires and more than 45 cubic yards of miscellaneous junk from Vermontville to Ada. Students from Maple Valley High School, Grand Valley State University and Olivet College joined local residents and river enthusiasts from around West Michigan. U-Rent-Em Canoe Livery, Whispering Waters Canoe Livery and Camp O’Malley provided canoes and boats free of charge for those who did not have their own. Teams set out by 9 a.m. to cover river sec- Scrap metal and tires found between Airport Road and Ada are brought to Tyden Park for sorting. City of Hastings PUBLIC NOTICE FIRE HYDRANT FLUSHING The Department of Public Services work crews will be flushing fire hydrants on Tuesday, October 9, 2012 and Wednesday, October 10, 2012. Tim Girrbach 77571276 Director of Public Services NOTICE The minutes of the meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners held September 25, 2012, are available in the County Clerk’s Office at 220 W. State St., Hastings, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or www.barrycounty.org. 77571160 Members of “Team Tyden” show part of their haul, which includes 23 tires, a shopping cart, two metal drums and a park bench. Pictured are Robert Jenkins, James Klein, Alan Klein, Craig Jenkins and Ananda Jenkins. tions ranging in length from four to nine miles. According to Barry Conservation District Director Joanne Barnard, the weather was fair and the river was still low and clear due to the lack of rain throughout the summer. This made it ideal for finding and removing items from the riverbed, she said, some of which appeared to have been there for years. This year, teams were warned by organizers they may encounter dead deer along the river due to an outbreak of epizootic hemorrhagic disease, or EHD. Volunteers reported 25 carcasses along the Eaton and Barry County stretches of the river. Numbers and locations were reported to the DNR Wildlife Division. “Many teams returned with boats so full, it was hard to imagine how they navigated the river,” said Barnard. Large items included a waterlogged twin mattress, a Fiberglass bathtub, a cast-iron sink, several 55-gallon drums, a car door, a car axle, a four-by-six-foot section of shingled roof, a plastic pool and the top of a Dumpster. Extra attention was given to the section of river between Bliss Riverfront Park and the U-Rent-Em livery in Hastings. Last year, the team reported there was more trash than they were able to haul. This year, nine volunteers took on this section and collected 23 tires, along with metal and other debris. A fairly new bicycle was retrieved from below the foot bridge in Hastings and turned in to the Hastings City Police. For the first time, sections between Vermontville and Mason Road and Nashville and Thornapple Lake were cleaned by boat. “This was possible due to volunteers who worked this spring and summer to clear passage through woody debris in preparation for the Thornapple Expedition,” said Barnard. “Though the Nashville to Thornapple Lake COUNTY OF BARRY REQUEST FOR BIDS 77571230 Barry County will accept sealed bids for the sale of the following vehicle: 2003 Ford Crown Victoria – 110,905 miles; this vehicle will be sold AS-IS. This vehicle is available for review at: Barry County parking lot at the northwest corner of Jefferson & Walnut St. in Hastings, MI 49058. All sealed bids must be clearly marked on the outside of the sealed envelope as follows: “Sealed Bid, 2003 Ford Crown Victoria”. All sealed bids must be sent to: County Administration, Barry County, 220 W. State St., Hastings, MI 49058, NO LATER THAN 2:00 PM on OCTOBER 12, 2012. Barry County reserves the right to reject any or all bids, to waive any irregularities in any bid, and to award the bid(s) in a manner that the County deems to be in its best interest, price and other factors considered. 77571247 77571133 LEAD MECHANIC The Barry County Road Commission has an opening for a full time lead mechanic position. A high school diploma or general education degree (GED) with 5 to 10 years experience is required. Applications can be picked up at the Barry County Road Commission office (phone 269-945-3449) at 1725 W. M-43 Hwy., Hastings, MI between 6:00 AM & 4:00 PM. A complete job description will be provided at the time of application. Applications will be accepted until October 5, 2012. Hourly wage will start at $19.59. The Barry County Road Commission is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Thirty-five bags of trash are collected by the Nashville team, working between Vermontville and Thornapple Lake. section is still a difficult journey, a three-man team of Expedition veterans agreed to take on this six-hour stretch for the cleanup, finding three tires, five bags of trash and lots of barrels.” Following the cleanup, volunteers were treated to lunch from Good Time Pizza, Little Caesar’s of Hastings, Walldorff Brewpub, Mike’s Pizza or Paradise Pizza. In addition to donations of food and boats, the Thornapple River Clean-up receives local support through cash and in-kind donations of goods and services. This year’s cleanup was assisted by a grant from Michigan’s Volunteer River, Stream and Creek Cleanup Program. The local river cleanup is organized each year by the Thornapple River Watershed Council and the Barry Conservation District. Barnard said that at this year’s kickoff meeting, a volunteer asked if there would be less trash since so much was removed last year. “I told the group that, unfortunately, our data shows there is more trash removed from the river each year,” said Barnard. “Not to be discouraging, I asked them to imagine what the river would be like if all of the trash collected in the last 17 years had never been removed.” With this image in mind, Barnard dug up statistics from cleanups since 2005. “In that eight-year period, 454 tires and 402 cubic yards of trash were collected. We didn’t separate metals until 2011, but in two years, 2,240 pounds of scrap have been recycled.” To see more photos of the 2012 Thornapple River Clean-up or to learn how to support future efforts, visit www.thornappleriver.org or call the Barry Conservation District, 269948-8056. Fisher given award by State Bar of Michigan Former chief judge for Barry County and consulting attorney at Law Weathers, James Fisher was awarded the Michael Franck Professional Responsibility Award from the State Bar of Michigan for his work in leading the Governor’s Indigent Defense Advisory Commission. The commission, according to a press release from Law Weathers, made significant recommendations to improve processes for court-appointed legal representation and criminal defense of the poor throughout the state of Michigan. Fisher, a native of Hastings, received the award during a special ceremony as part of the State Bar of Michigan’s annual meeting Sept. 20. The award is named in honor of Michael Franck, late director of the State Bar of Michigan and long-time champion of improvements in lawyer regulation in the public interest. Award recipients are distinguished by career commitments in areas such as legal ethics, disciplinary enforcement and lawyer professionalism. Fisher joined Law Weathers last year after 35 years in law, most notably as chief judge for Barry County Trial Court where he initiated a trial court reform project to consolidate and streamline Michigan’s legal organizational structure. The Indigent Defense Advisory Commission, which recommended an additional $50 million per year in state funding for legal defense work, is among Fisher’s latest efforts for court reform and legal professionalism. James Fisher Fisher is active in many civic organizations, including the Board of Directors at Hastings City Bank. He has previously served on the boards of Pennock Hospital, Pennock Foundation, YMCA, First Presbyterian Church, Child Abuse Prevention Council and the Kiwanis Club of Hastings. He is a past member of the State Bar Representative Assembly, State Bar Ethics Committee and is currently a member of the Pennock Hospital Ethics Committee. He completed civil and domestic mediation training and frequently mediates cases for judicial colleagues. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 27, 2012 — Page 11 BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY by Gerald Stein NORTH N: J 10 8 4 M: 9 L: 9 6 5 4 2 K: J 9 4 WEST EAST N: Q 6 M: K Q 10 8 L: J 10 8 3 K: 7 5 3 N: 9 5 2 M: J 6 5 4 1 L: A Q K: Q 10 6 SOUTH: N: A K 7 3 M: A 7 3 L: K 7 K: A K 8 2 Dealer: South Vulnerable:None Lead:7K North East 3K 4N Pass Pass South 2NT 3N Pass West Pass Pass Pass Captain M. North was whistling softly to himself. Today was the first day of autumn, and the next few weeks of October would be dazzling with colors and the fresh smells of the woods and trees along the Thornapple River. The setting would be perfect for the final three or four river cruises and bridge tournaments on the Barry County Bridge Barge. No wonder the Captain was whistling. Just then, Captain North heard a cheery call from the Port Tyden Park landing. “Yoo-hoo, Captain North! It’s Vera and Rosy! May we come aboard?” The captain looked up amused. “Of course, Rosy and Vera, come aboard. But you know, don’t you, that we have no cruise today? Our next cruise is early next week.” “Oh, Captain North, of course, we know that. But we have such news that we couldn’t wait to share our stories with you.” The Captain smiled. He knew that his cleanup of the BCBB would have a temporary pause. “Come aboard, and sit down, ladies.” Vera and Rosy took their seats at one of the bridge tables. The captain took a seat as well and waited to hear his favorite bridge players share their bridge stories. “Oh, Captain North, you have heard of the Hastings Banner, haven’t you?” Rosy did not even stop to hear the Captain’s response; he only nodded. “Well, Captain North, you cannot believe all of the bridge classes that will be offered in our area shortly. Isn’t that a hoot?” The Captain smiled. “Yes,” went on Rosy without losing a breath, “there will be plenty of new bridge players for our weekly cruises down the Thornapple. Won’t that be wonderful?” Again, the Captain could only nod. Here Vera chimed in, “Captain North, your bridge cruises have been the best experiences for playing bridge and seeing the natural beauty of our beautiful Barry County. We just wanted you to know.” “The Captain smiled and said, “Thank you, Rosy and Vera, that is certainly a nice compliment. I was just thinking that our next few cruises will be especially fun with all of the fall colors and the changes in the season. Fall is one of my favorite seasons.” Rosy spoke back up again, “That’s not all, Captain North. We have a special hand to share with you today. It happened just this week at our local club in Kalamazoo. You do know where Kalamazoo is, don’t you?” Again, Captain North nodded. Rosy went on, “Vera opened her very powerful hand with 2NT, promising at least 20 high card points, even distribution, and a request for game if possible. In our partnership agreement, 2NT is not a forcing bid, so I could have passed without feeling too much “angst.” Do you know that word, Captain North? I just learned it on the internet. What fun!” The Captain smiled. “Go on, Rosy, please.” Rosy sat up straighter in her chair. “Captain North, do you know what I bid as North with only two high card points? I had two jacks and not much more.” Here Rosy stopped and waited for Captain North’s response. The Captain only shook his head. “What did you bid, Rosy?” “Three clubs!” Rosy exclaimed triumphantly. “The Stayman Convention works after 2NT just as well as after a 1NT bid. I bid three clubs, hoping that I might find my partner Vera with a four-card spade fit.” Here Vera almost jumped out of her chair. “I responded to Rosy’s request for a major by bidding three spades, and guess what Rosy did next, Captain North? She bid four spades! Can you imagine?” The two bridge players were so excited about their bidding sequence that Captain North had to nudge them along. “Well, what did Vera say when she saw your two high card points and four spades?” He looked at them expectantly. Here Vera spoke up, “Well, Captain North, at first I was a bid flustered to say the least. But I duly thanked Vera for her bid, and I did ask her about it. She told me that with the two high card points and the singleton heart that we had a golden fit in spades and enough points to make a game. I nodded to her, and I set about with my plan.” Here Vera sat back down to regain her breath. “And what a plan Vera made,” commented Rosy. “Why, Captain North, you would have been so impressed with Vera’s play. Vera took the club lead with the AK in her hand, and she drew two rounds of trump only, saving the JN and 10N on the board. She wisely played her A©, and trumped a loser heart from her hand with the 10N in the dummy. She led a small diamond from the dummy, planning to finesse with the K®, but East jumped in with the A®. That set up Vera’s KL. Vera continued, “With the AL out of the way, I was ready. I did not draw the last trump, but I used the JN to trump my last loser heart. I led a small club to my KK, played the KL, and led a small club to the nine on the board. The rest was elementary, as the saying goes, and I made our four spade contract.” Here Rosy was practically jumping up and down at the table. “Captain North, you will not believe our outcome. With this same hand played 13 times, we were the only ones to find and bid four spades. We won the top board on that hand, a 12. Wasn’t that something?” Captain North nodded and smiled. “Rosy and Vera, you are most amusing with your bridge enthusiasm. What a great bid and what a great play of the hand. You are indeed to be congratulated on your bridge skills. “Oh Captain North, we did well on that hand. But on some of the other 25 hands, not so good. Not so good.” Here Rosy and Vera burst into laughter as the Captain looked at them with a bemused smile on his face. ***** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) • NOTICE • REGISTRATION NOTICE TO THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF THE COUNTY OF BARRY COUNTY DELTON KELLOGG SCHOOLS Notice is hereby given that any person who qualifies to register to vote who is living in the following City and Townships and is not already registered to vote may register with his/her respective Clerk no later than TUESDAY OCTOBER 9, 2012. THE LAST DAY TO REGISTER, to be eligible to vote in the General Election to be held on NOVERMBER 6, 2012. Hours for OCTOBER 9, 2012 are listed below. REGISTRATION WILL BE ACCEPTED OTHER TIMES BY APPOINTMENT BY CALLING YOUR CLERK PENNY YPMA BALTIMORE TOWNSHIP CLERK 3100 E. Dowling Rd, Hastings MI 49058 Phone: 269-721-3502 Hours: 9:00 am -4:00 pm JUNE P. DOSTER JOHNSTOWN TOWNSHIP CLERK 1815 Lacey Rd, Dowling MI 49050 Phone: 269-721-9905 Hours: By appointment w/the clerk DEBRA KNIGHT BARRY TOWNSHIP CLERK 155 E. Orchard St, Delton MI 49046 Phone: 269-623-5171 Hours: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm JENNIFER GOY ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP CLERK 7350 Lindsey Rd, Plainwell MI 49080 Phone: 269-664-4522 Hours: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm DEBORAH JACKSON HOPE TOWNSHIP CLERK 5463 S M43 Hwy, Hastings MI 49058 Phone: 269-948-2464 Hours: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm JILL OWENS PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP CLERK 10115 S. Norris Rd, Delton MI 49046 Phone: 269-623-2664 Hours: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the following offices will appear on all the ballots: President/Vice President U. S. Senator U. S. Representative 3rd District 87th District State Representative State Board of Education Regent of the University of Michigan Trustee of Michigan State University Governor of Wayne State University County Prosecutor County Sheriff County Clerk County Treasurer County Register of Deeds County Drain Commissioner County Surveyor County Commissioner Justice of the Supreme Court of Michigan Justice of the Supreme Court of Michigan (partial term) Judge of Court of Appeals Judge of Court of Appeals (partial term) Judge of Circuit Court (partial term) Judge of District Court Judge of Probate Court THE FOLLOWING OFFICES WILL APPEAR on the various township ballots: Township Supervisor Township Clerk Township Treasurer Township Trustee Prairieville Township Parks Commissioner Yankee Springs Constable FOR DELTON SCHOOL DISTRICT ONLY the following will appear on the ballot: Delton Kellogg Schools two (2) members for four (4) year terms expiring 12/31/2016 PROPOSAL 12-4 THE FOLLOWING PROPOSALS will appear on all ballots: PROPOSAL 12-1 A REFERENDUM ON PUBLIC ACT 4 OF 2011 – THE EMERGENCY MANAGER LAW JANICE C. LIPPERT YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP CLERK 284 N. Briggs Rd, Middleville MI 49333 Phone: 269-795-9091 Hours: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm A PROPOSAL TO AMEND THE STATE CONSTITUTION TO ESTABLISH THE MICHIGAN QUALITY HOME CARE COUNCIL AND PROVIDE COLLECTIVE BARGAINING FOR IN-HOME CARE WORKERS This proposal would: Public Act 4 of 2011 would: • Establish criteria to assess the financial condition of local government units, including school districts. • Authorize Governor to appoint an emergency manager (EM) upon state finding of a financial emergency, and allow the EM to act in place of local government officials. • Require EM to develop financial and operating plans, which may include modification or termination of contracts, reorganization of government, and determination of expenditures, services, and use of assets until the emergency is resolved. • Alternatively, authorize state-appointed review team to enter into a local government approved consent decree. • Allow in-home care workers to bargain collectively with the Michigan Quality Home Care Council (MQHCC). Continue the current exclusive representative of in-home care workers until modified in accordance with labor laws. • Require MQHCC to provide training for in-home care workers, create a registry of workers who pass background checks, and provide financial services to patients to manage the cost of in-home care. • Preserve patients’ rights to hire in-home care workers who are not referred from the MQHCC registry who are bargaining unit members. • Authorize the MQHCC to set minimum compensation standards and terms and conditions of employment. Should this proposal be approved? PROPOSAL 12-5 Should this law be approved? PROPOSAL 12-2 A PROPOSAL TO AMEND THE STATE CONSTITUTION REGARDING COLLECTIVE BARGAINING A PROPOSAL TO AMEND THE STATE CONSTITUTION TO LIMIT THE ENACTMENT OF NEW TAXES BY STATE GOVERNMENT This proposal would: This proposal would: • Grant public and private employees the constitutional right to organize and bargain collectively through labor unions. • Invalidate existing or future state or local laws that limit the ability to join unions and bargain collectively, and to negotiate and enforce collective bargaining agreements, including employees’ financial support of their labor unions. Laws may be enacted to prohibit public employees from striking. • Override state laws that regulate hours and conditions of employment to the extent that those laws conflict with collective bargaining agreements. • Define “employer” as a person or entity employing one or more employees. Require a 2/3 majority vote of the State House and the State Senate, or a statewide vote of the people at a November election, in order for the State of Michigan to impose new or additional taxes on taxpayers or expand the base of taxation or increasing the rate of taxation. This section shall in no way be construed to limit or modify tax limitations otherwise created in this Constitution. Should this proposal be approved? PROPOSAL 12-6 A PROPOSAL TO AMEND THE STATE CONSTITUTION REGARDING CONSTRUCTION OF INTERNATIONAL BRIDGES AND TUNNELS This proposal would: Should this proposal be approved? PROPOSAL 12-3 A PROPOSAL TO AMEND THE STATE CONSTITUTION TO ESTABLISH A STANDARD FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY This proposal would: • Require electric utilities to provide at least 25% of their annual retail sales of electricity from renewable energy sources, which are wind, solar, biomass, and hydropower, by 2025. • Limit to not more than 1% per year electric utility rate increases charged to consumers only to achieve compliance with the renewable energy standard. • Allow annual extensions of the deadline to meet the 25% standard in order to prevent rate increases over the 1% limit. • Require the legislature to enact additional laws to encourage the use of Michigan made equipment and employment of Michigan residents. Should this proposal be approved? • Require the approval of a majority of voters at a statewide election and in each municipality where “new international bridges or tunnels for motor vehicles” are to be located before the State of Michigan may expend state funds or resources for acquiring land, designing, soliciting bids for, constructing, financing, or promoting new international bridges or tunnels. • Create a definition of “new international bridges or tunnels for motor vehicles” that means, “any bridge or tunnel which is not open to the public and serving traffic as of January 1, 2012.” Should this proposal be approved? THE FOLLOWING PROPOSAL WILL APPEAR on all ballots in the Delton Kellogg School District: DELTON KELLOGG SCHOOOLS OPERATING MILLAGE RENEWAL PROPOSAL EXEMPTING PRINCIPAL RESIDENCE AND OTHER PROPERTY EXEMPTED BY LAW 18 MILLS FOR 2 YEARS Full text of the ballot proposal may be obtained at the administrative offices of Delton Kellogg Schools, 327 North Grove Street, Delton MI 49046. Telephone: 269-623-9246. NOTICE OF PUBLIC ACCURACY TEST In Loving Memory of Keith Meaney 77571243 Nov. 6, 1946 - Oct. 2, 2010 Only your memory, dear Poppi, to remember our whole life through. The sweetness will linger forever, as we treasure the image of you. Gloria Matt - Steph - Pyper Andy - Mel - Amelia Jerrod-Mel-Jackson-Hannah GET ALL THE LOCAL NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. Notice is hereby given that a Public Accuracy Test for the November 6, 2012 Election will be conducted by the clerks of the above name townships on the voting equipment pursuant to MCL 168.798 at the addresses noted above on the following dates: October 18, 2012, AT 2:00 P.M. AT JOHNSTOWN TOWNSHIP HALL 13641 S M-37 HWY, BATTLE CREEK MI 49017 Townships participating in the October 18, 2012 date: Baltimore Township, Barry Township, Johnstown Township and Prairieville Township. October 26, 2012 AT 8:30 A.M. AT THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP HALL 200 E MAIN ST, MIDDLEVILLE MI 49333 Townships participating in the October 26, 2012 date: Hope Township, Orangeville Township and Yankee Springs Township. The Public Accuracy Test is conducted to demonstrate that the program and the computer that will be used to tabulate the results for the election have been prepared in accordance with law. A complete list of candidates and full text for the proposals is available at www.barrycounty.org. Sample ballots are available at the Michigan Information Voter Center at www.michigan.gov/vote. An application for an absent voter ballot may be applied for any time before 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 3, 2012. Please contact your Township or City Clerk for further information. QUALIFICATIONS TO VOTE Citizen of the United States At least 18 years of age on or before November 6, 2012 Resident of Michigan and the township/city where you are applying to vote. *************************************** Persons with special needs, as defined in the Americans with Disabilities Act, should contact the Township Clerk. Persons who are deaf, hard of hearing or speech impaired may place a call through the Michigan Relay Center TDD#1-800-649-3777. YOU MUST BE REGISTERED TO QUALIFY AS A VOTER! 77571237 Pamela A. Jarvis, Barry County Clerk �Page 12 — Thursday, September 27, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Tone remains civil during Orangeville meeting on fracking by Fran Faverman Staff Writer The prevailing tone of a Sept. 19 meeting sponsored by the Orangeville Township Board of Trustees on fracking, the controversial technique for mining gas and oil from shale, was different from other recent meetings on the subject. Supervisor Tom Rook, advocating for a civil meeting, welcomed the audience of approximately 125 people, saying the meeting would be more of an educational process. He said most of what he had heard about fracking had occurred in other states. He also noted that the board had passed and sent to Gov. Rick Snyder’s office a resolution opposing the use of the process. A section of the Michigan Compiled Laws was printed on the meeting agenda. The law limits the ability of counties and townships to regulate the drilling of oil and gas wells whether they are for exploratory or production purposes. Communities have no role in the permitting process with regard to the location, operation, completion or abandonment of such wells. “The law ties our hands,” Rook commented. Rook introduced Hal Fitch, director of Michigan Department of Environmental Quality’s Office of Oil, Gas and Minerals, who began his presentation by saying that “Wells are regulated from the cradle to the grave.” Inspectors from his division are present at all major points in the process, said Fitch. He reviewed the history of wells in the state from the 1950s, noting that most of the wells were shallow. Deeper shale led to horizontal fracturing in the 1980s. The state has 12,000 active gas wells and 2,800 gas storage wells, he said. Turning to the concern expressed by many about the possible contamination of drinking water wells, Fitch said the gas or oil wells must be at least 100 feet below the level of the water source. Steel casing is cemented into place and then a drilling casing is inserted inside the casing which is also cemented into place. High-pressure fluids, which are 99.5 percent water and .5 percent chemicals and sand, are then injected. Addressing concerns about the migration of the fluid, Fitch said it was necessary to be careful, and the state does not allow open storage of the fluids. Fitch noted the disclosure exemption granted to manufacturers of the chemicals, saying that they were required to supply the information to medical professionals. The amount of water required for the hydraulic fracking process varies, he said, from about 50,000 gallons in a shallow Antrim shale well to 5 million for a deep shale well. The final court ruling on the Nestle Ice Mountain permit case has essentially limited the ability of the department to regulate how much water can be drawn down, he said. Earthquakes, as near as northern Ohio, also have been cited as risks. Fitch said that has happened in other states and is not a risk in Michigan. He also noted that where earthquakes have occurred, there has been no injury to humans. He closed his remarks saying that what has to be considered are the risks of deep versus shallow wells. He added that he has Michigan roots and his primary concern is safety. Maryann Lesert was introduced by Rook as a professor of English at Grand Rapids Community College and a researcher. Lesert said she lived in Wayland and was familiar with the area. Lesert began her remarks saying that much of the discussion was about semantics and language. She urged the audience to watch a video produced by the Michigan Gas Producers Association. The video, she said, is an excellent description of the production process. She also referred to a federal report listing 29 contaminants used in the process and pointed out that a special clause in a federal ruling granted in 2005 exempts the materials from the federal Clean Water and Air Acts. Water use is also a concern, she said, noting that water used in the process is not recycled in Michigan. An additional loophole in the state is the exemption of the fracking process from the requirement of no more than 100,000 gallons per day withdrawal of water contained in the Great Lakes Compact. Lesert also cited a study done by the National Oceanic and Atmosphere Administration and the University of Colorado which found excessive emissions of hydrogen sulfide gas. Lesert cited violations at sites in Gladwin and Roscommon, saying that the operator did not have permits posted. The DEQ, she said, had not posted the permits on the online map showing the location of wells. When the operator left the site, she said, material was left behind. A material left on the site damaged her shoes and another substance had a peculiar consistency, she said. Among the items left behind were five-minute escape packs. Such packs, according to one manufacturer, are designed to be used when entering or escaping from hazardous situations; the five Heart attack claims life of former Hastings principal Former Hastings Elementary Principal Chris Warren died unexpectedly of a heart attack Tuesday evening, Sept. 25. Warren, who was best known in Hastings for running or bicycling to raise money for various causes, had been the principal at Southeastern from 1984 to 2000. He was currently serving his 13th year as principal at Kettle Lake Elementary in Caledonia. David Arnold, who was principal of Central Elementary during much of the time Warren was at Southeastern, said Warren was dedicated to his students. “He just enjoyed the kids,” Arnold said, adding, “He was very supportive of his staff. He really worked well with parents, students, staff and fellow administrators.” An August 2000 Banner article announcing Warren’s departure, said he was a member of the Hastings Exchange Club and the Child Abuse Prevention Council of Barry County. He was named a WOOD-TV 8 Unsung Hero in 1999. For at least five years previous to that, he had raised money for programs preventing child abuse by participating in MagicRide, a 30-mile bicycle tour. He also ran in the Old Kent River Bank Run numerous times, raising several thousand dollars for playground equipment, library materials and other items at the school. He could routinely be found refereeing soccer games during lunch recess and organizing after-school sports programs. Warren, according to Banner staff, also made sure students were recognized for citizenship and academic accomplishments “He was a good person,” said Arnold. Warren’s style of leadership and interaction with children didn’t change after he moved to Caledonia. “He was a kids’ principal,” said Caledonia Superintendent Randy Rodriguez. “He was on the playground with the kids; he moni- Chris Warren tored the soccer club, he watched the kickball games. “This is a tremendous loss for our school and community,” said Rodriguez. Warren continued to run in the Riverbank race every year until his knees told him it was time to quit. When he couldn’t run, he walked. Like he had done in Hastings, Warren raised thousands of dollars for playground equipment at Kettle Lake, books and other materials. Although he had earned a Ph.D. at Michigan State University in 1990, Warren never used the title. His academic career included a bachelor’s degree from Olivet College (1974), a master’s degree from the University of Michigan (1975), an educational specialist degree from Michigan State University, 1982. His career in education spanned 33 years. See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits minutes is a measure of the duration of the oxygen cylinder supplied. A major concern for Lesert is the absence of any kind of baseline health testing for people and animals, particularly livestock. The absence of such testing, in her view, provides an escape hatch for companies to avoid liability for damage. Rook introduced the third speaker, James Olson, an attorney specializing in environmental issues. “It is here, it is coming and it is time to do something about it,” Olson said, adding, “The risks are there.” Olson’s principal concern is water. Observing that the water is trucked to disposal wells, he urged the audience to multiply the number of wells by 5 millions gallons of water to get the number of gallons to be trucked to a disposal site. He said that horizontal hydraulic fracturing is very different from vertical fracking. He said he advises people to assume that the legislature will do nothing to halt the use of the technology. “Are there strategies within the existing framework?” he asked before giving an affirmative answer. Olson advocates controlling the routes used to get from the fracking site to a disposal well for the water; he also advocates limiting hours of operation. Most of Olson’s argument is based on the legal status of water as a common good. A fundamental rule prohibits the diversion of all the water flowing into a watershed, he said. Since streams, creeks and other sources cannot be diminished, Olson suggested that one way to attack fracking is through the legal landscape around water. Zoning is not an effective tool for controlling gas exploration, he said, because zoning only deals with the structures on the surface of the land and not wells below the surface. However, the courts have allowed regulation of related facilities and can address impacts on other land uses, he said. Leases without compensation clauses and historic districts have created obstacles. Other possibilities include a moratorium for six months to a year and requiring an environmental impact study. Olson said he believes the Michigan Department of Natural Resources has a duty to protect before leasing state lands. The DNR lost a case in which it failed to meet its public trust duty before leasing. The DEQ is required to consider cumulative impacts. The most basic question is, what is it going to do to our community? Audience questions were limited because of time restraints. Cindy Dill, an Orangeville resident who is active in the anti-fracking movement, commented that not everything in the Antrim shale south of U.S. 10 is amenable to fracking. Fitch responded to a question about the use of fracking fluid as road brine. He said the department had tried to prohibit its use as a treatment but was sued by the County Road Association of Michigan and lost. However, its use is now regulated. Answering a query about ordinances and case law, Olson said one case involved the location of a gas plant. The township could regulate where the plant was located. It apparently fell within the police powers of a township. In response to a question about the number of inspectors for wells in his division, Fitch currently there are 25 inspectors. He said that if projections for new wells work out, his department will have to hire more people. He said other functions such as gas storage facilities also require inspection. A resident from the Circle Pines area commented, “We are a recreational area. Five wells in the area could ruin us. This is our life.” Rook thanked the audience and the speakers before adjourning the meeting. Hastings Kiwanis told Ford Airport is still working on de-icer flowing into Thornapple River by David DeDecker Staff Writer Questions on expansion and the arrival of a new carrier at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport are big issues when Marketing and Communications Manager Bruce Schedlbauer speaks. His appearance at last week’s Hastings Kiwanis Club also carried news on what Schedlbauer terms one of the airport’s major projects. “The previous procedure was to allow the material to make its way to the Thornapple River,” Schedlbauer responded to a question on de-icer fluid flowing into the Thornapple River, a topic that first created concern last winter. “That’s the watershed,” said Schedlbauer, who has been with the airport for 19 years. “It made its way through a particular tributary. In that tributary, there was some biofilm that started to grow. In a study, it was determined the airport was not the sole contributor, but a major contributor to this biofilm because of the de-icing material. “We are currently in the process of looking at how to reroute that runoff, so it runs across airport property and is better able to break down as it makes its way out to the Thornapple River. It would bypass the previous tributary, which should return to a healthy state. We would not be creating a new biofilm due the new routing of the [de-icing] material. Schedlbauer said three things about the issue need to be clarified. “Claims the airport is polluting the Thornapple River with the material - not true,” he said. “This is not a pollutant. Claims we are just going to make it worse by not taking it to another watershed. The DNR is not going to allow us worsen the water quality of the Thornapple River. I can assure you of that. “We are in the Thornapple River Watershed and that is where this material will go. We can’t send it to another river. It will continue to go to the Thornapple River, but via a different route. “It is a major project for us.” Also on the airport’s radar screen are expansion plans and the pending arrival of Southwest Airlines to the operation which employes about 1,500 people. Southwest Airlines will be coming to GRFI Airport due to their purchase of Airtran. Airport Marketing and Communication Manager Bruce Schedlbauer speaks to Hastings Kiwanis. Airtran was already a carrier at the Grand Rapids airport and Southwest will start its integration into the operation. “We just met with Southwest two weeks ago at their Dallas headquarters,” said Schedlbauer. “Grand Rapids was one of the cities ‘on the bubble’ whether or not Southwest would continue in the market as they integrated Airtran. “We heard the most positive news. They do plan to bring Southwest to Grand Rapids, but it won’t be until the latter half of next year. I think that will be a game changer for Grand Rapids. The competitors will need to respond to Southwest coming into the market and we should all see lower fares due to more destination, choices and competition.” Schedlbauer said Job One is to hang onto the services already offered at the airport, and then to attract complementary services. “It is a very short list of other airlines who will fit Grand Rapids into their system,” he said. “We continue to talk to Jet Blue and Spirit.” When asked about airports that are considered competitors, Schedlbauer explained airports in Lansing, Kalamazoo, Muskegon are not really competition, although he did say Lansing was competing somewhat with fares. He said Detroit and the two Chicago airports are really Grand Rapids’ major competitors. “It’s not an easy drive to Chicago, but some people do it,” said Schedlbauer. “Detroit is an easier drive, but even the time and money it takes to drive to those airports may be worth it if you can save money on a tickets for a family. We did find that 30 percent of our traffic was ‘leaking’ to other airports. That’s way too much. That’s people being forced to drive a great distance just to get a reasonable fare. So, we really set about attracting low fare service into the market. I think we have been successful.” He went on to explain that, several years ago, the Grand Rapids airport was the second most expensive airport in the country in terms of airfares. Today, he said great progress has been made and the airport is ranked in the mid-thirties for fares. Ticket purchase price is divided with a lion’s share going to the actual carrier but, according to Schedlbauer, the federal government also gets a portion and part goes to the airport for terminal upkeep and improvements. The airport also receives about 15 percent of any food or gift concessions. There are other ways the airport generates revenue, but the number one revenue generator at the airport is the parking operation. Schedlbauer also said there are three construction projects in various stages. The first is an expansion of Concourse B with a focus on Southwest coming in next year. The second is putting a roof over the new parking ramp. The third is moving the bag screening equipment, now in the lobby in front of the ticket counters, to behind the ticket counters. Ford Airport is one of two Michigan airports which a self-supporting, pointed out Schedlbauer. Every Michigan airport other than Detroit and Grand Rapids receive taxpayers’ money to operate. Some receive more than others ranging from $100,000 up to around a million dollars in tax money. More information on Gerald R. Ford International Airport is available at www.grr.org. SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN Supplemental Security Income: 40 years of helping people in need by Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist The Social Security Amendments of 1972 created a new federal benefit program. In October, that program — the Supplemental Security Income program — will celebrate its 40th anniversary. Administered by Social Security, SSI is a needs-based program for people 65 or older, blind or disabled who have limited income and resources. For income, we count things such as wages, Social Security benefits and pensions. However, Social Security does not count all income when it decides whether you qualify for SSI. For example, we don’t count food stamps or most home energy assistance. For resources, we count the things you own, such as real estate (other than the home you live in), bank accounts, cash, stocks and bonds. A person with resources worth no more than $2,000 may be able to get SSI. The resource limit is $3,000 for couples. To qualify for SSI, you also must live in the United States or the Northern Mariana Islands and be a U.S. citizen or national. In rare cases, noncitizen residents can qualify for SSI. If you live in certain types of institutions or live in a shelter for the homeless, you may qualify for SSI. People with blindness or a disability who apply for SSI may be able to get free special services to help them work. These services may include counseling and job training. The monthly maximum federal SSI payment is the same nationwide and amounts to $698 for an individual and $1,048 for a couple. However, the amount you receive depends on factors such as where you live, your living arrangements and your income. Some states add money to the federal payment. Funding for the SSI program comes from the general revenues of the U.S. Treasury, not from Social Security payroll taxes. To learn more about SSI, visit the SSI page at www.socialsecurity.gov/ssi. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 27, 2012 — Page 13 Virus continues to claim Barry County deer by David DeDecker Staff Writer Barry County residents have been calling wildlife authorities about an alarming number of dead deer found around local ponds, creeks and lakes. The main culprit for the deer’s demise is epizootic hemorrhagic disease, or EHD. EHD is an infectious viral disease found in wild ruminants, such as the whitetail deer. EHD is transmitted by the bite of a small fly, or midge. The midge bites a deer and transmits the virus to another deer’s blood. Once bitten, a deer may develop signs of illness within seven days, and may be dead two days later. “People are aware of the smell first,” said DNR Wildlife Biologist Sara Schaefer stationed in Barry County, who said her phone has been ringing off the hook with calls from residents discovering deer carcasses. “They may find three, four or five dead deer at their pond, and it becomes a very emotional issue.” More than 300 deer have been reported in Barry County, Schaefer said. Of those, 238 had been confirmed EHD cases as of Sept. 21. Just over 4,200 dead deer have been reported in 24 counties. Ionia County, alone, reported more than 1,660 confirmed cases as of Friday. The DNR expects more dead deer to be found as farmers harvest their crops and hunters take to the fields and woods. “Since July, the DNR, in cooperation with many helpful volunteers, has been monitoring the EHD outbreak,” said Brent Rudolph, DNR deer and elk program leader. “This is a horrible disease for hunters, DNR personnel and other wildlife enthusiasts to see affecting deer.” Rudolph explained that the first, hard frost should kill the flies. These insects have thrived due to the dry, hot summer. This year has seen a number of major outbreaks across the country, and EHD has been documented in the neighboring states of Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana and Ohio. Symptoms of EHD include loss of appetite and loss of fear of humans, weakness, excessive salivation, rapid respiration, fever and unconsciousness. Hemorrhaging of tissues and organs, combined with a lack of oxygen in the blood, result in a blue appearance of the mucus membranes, such a their tongue. According to Schaefer, the DNR’s last estimated deer population in Barry County was about 30,000 each year for the past three years. That averages out to about 52 deer in each square mile of the county. Thousands of deer have been harvested every year by hunters, and car-deer accidents here have averaged 1,100 to 1,300 a year over the past 10 years, she said. “Callers are concerned EHD will decimate the deer population,” said Schaefer. “EHD deaths are still a concern, but when you look at all the other factors, EHD is the lowest.” Michigan DNR Wildlife Veterinarian Steve Schmitt said the deer herd may be smaller in localized areas this year, but within a year or two should be back to full strength. Deer die-offs have been identified and recorded as EHD since 1955. Written reports of die-offs date back to the 1890s. Additional Michigan die-offs attributed to EHD occurred in Michigan in white-tailed deer in 1974, 2006, 2008, 2009 and 2010. All documented outbreaks of EHD have occurred from August to October and ceased abruptly with the onset of frost. Schmitt said midges are only a carrier, but it is unknown how deer initially become infected. The active virus stays within a deer for about 30 days. The deer develops antibodies if it survives the virus, but how the active virus initially arrives in northern climates is unknown. “This is usually a Southern or Western disease, but with the warmer weather, the virus has been able to over-winter in the midge larvae,” said Schmitt. “The larvae live in mud. This past year was a perfect storm for EHD — a warm winter and plenty of mud from drought-induced low water levels. “Once the midge bites an infected deer they are a carrier for the virus,” he added. “The warmer the weather, the faster the virus reproduces ... and it was very warm this summer. With more midges and the midges carrying a more concentrated amount of virus, the insect has been able to more efficiently transmit the disease from deer to deer.” Infected deer migrate to bodies of water to cool themselves and combat the feverinduced thirst. According to Schaefer, generally within 48 hours of the deer showing symptoms of the disease, it will go into shock and die. “With the drought this year, there has been poor forage for the deer,” she said. “They may be weak and cannot fight off the virus. People get upset with heavy-antlered deer found dead. What some do not realize is the amount “Many deer with a healthy immune system will not develop symptoms, will survive and make the herd stronger.” Sara Schaefer, DNR wildlife biologist This map from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources shows concentrations of deer killed by epizootic hemorrhagic disease. of energy it takes for a buck to grow those antlers. With poor forage conditions, the deer just don’t have enough reserve energy to survive being sick. Many deer with a healthy immune system will not develop symptoms, will survive and make the herd stronger.” “People still need to be concerned about secondary infections,” added Schaefer. “If a deer is stressed due to EHD and survives the virus, [it] may not be able to fight off another infection, such as in a wound.” The DNR website states no long-term affects of EHD on the deer herd has ever been Hastings ZBA approves Walgreens variance requests Developers working for Walgreens received the final nod of approval they needed from the City of Hastings in order to proceed with plans to build a Walgreens pharmacy at the corner of West State Street and North Broadway. Tuesday evening, the Hastings Zoning Board of Appeals approved three variance requests. One would allow the building to be set back farther on the lot than the 20-foot ordinance in the B-4 district allows. Another would allow two signs, the store name and logo, rather than one on two sides of the building. The third variance would allow the driveway off Park Street to be 40 feet wide rather than the maximum 36 feet allowed by ordinance. All variance requests were passed by a 5-1 vote with ZBA member Dorotha Cooper casting the dissenting vote each time. Developers told the ZBA that they hope to finalize the purchase of the property by the end of 2012 and begin construction in the spring or summer of 2013. CEMETERY, continued from page 1 that the city was likely going to end up responsible for the cemetery. “I think that common sense is going to tell you that the city will end up with this [cemetery], if we don’t get a millage for it,” he said. “Common sense tells you that [because it is] inside the city limits. Common sense also tells you that if we don’t take it over, it is going to be a blight in the city. End of conversation.” “End of comment,” said McNabb-Stange. During the public comment portion of the meeting, city resident Mike Snyder said he was in favor of the city assuming ownership of the cemetery. “You have to remember that out there at that cemetery we have the founders of this city and we have 8,000 gravesites that have been responsible for the growth of this city and they ought to be honored,” he said. “Not only that, we have 400 veterans buried out there, and it would be a dirty shame if this city just turned a back on the veterans’ graves. I think the electorate ought to have the chance to vote on that. You have to start remembering that in the county, Hastings is the only place that they don’t contribute anything to any cemeteries. The City of Hastings has been very fortunate, over the last 130, 140 years, that they have not had to do this, and I think it is time the city owns up that it has responsibility also.” No members of the Cemetery Action Group attended Monday’s council meeting, and trustee Dave Jasperse said he was not interested in discussing the issue at another meeting without members of the cemetery group present to answer questions. Mansfield told the council it had until Jan. 15, 2013, to adopt a resolution to place the millage language on the May 7, 2013 ballot. “I think the Cemetery Action Group would like to get going on generating support for the millage as quickly as they can, understanding that [the council] also needs time to make a decision and make sure you have all the information you need, as well,” he said. Mansfield said the council ultimately needs to consider four questions: Whether to pursue a millage; the length of the millage; the formation of an advisory board should the city take ownership of the cemetery; and, the city’s plans for a perpetual care fund. In answer to a question from McNabbStange, city attorney Stephanie Fekkes said the city would draw up a purchase agreement contingent upon approval of the millage by voters. She said if voters do not approve the millage, then the city would be under no obligation to assume ownership of the cemetery. “In other words, the city would be saying, ‘Yes, we will accept ownership of the cemetery; but, only if the electorate was in support of it by passing the up to one mill levy,’” said Fekkes. She also clarified that the cemetery millage was not limited to a 20-year levy. “It is a decision, for the city, whether they want to do a perpetual [levy], up to 1 mill,” she said. “And, if the time came that the mill no longer needed to be levied, we could go back to a charter amendment revoking it.” She said she would not advise the city to put a cap on the length of the levy because it would be easier for the city to revoke the levy than to try to get voters to renew it. In response to a question from Jasperse, Fekkes said the council would need to amend the city charter to increase the maximum allowable millage from 16.2 mills to 17.2 mills to allow the additional 1-mill levy to support the cemetery. Mansfield, in answer to another questions from McNabb-Stange and Trustee Don Bowers, said the Cemetery Action Group has verbally agreed to pay costs associated with the transfer of the property to the city, such as environmental assessments. Mansfield said he and city staff members would further investigate transitional costs and a plan for covering them and bring that information back to the council at a future meeting. 77571267 recorded. In fact, where EHD is present, deer commonly develop immunity and possibly pass their immunity to offspring. “This is limited to the white-tail here in Michigan,” Schmitt said. “Out West, the mule deer are affected and some antelope. We are right on the edge of the midge’s natural range. Down South, the deer have EHD, but some aren’t even affected since they have built up such a tolerance to the virus. They show no symptoms at all, but they have the antibodies in their blood. If we introduce a northern deer into their population, they will get EHD and will likely die.” Schaefer said each hunter and property owner should make his or her own decision on whether to harvest deer. “If you have found a number of dead deer on your property, you might decide not to pull the trigger this year, or only shoot a buck and not a doe this year,” she said. “It’s an individual’s choice.” Schmitt and other DNR experts have said EHD does not affect humans, so edibility of the venison is not impacted by the disease. There is no evidence that humans can contract the EHD virus either from the midge or from handling or eating venison. Schmitt said the virus cannot be transmitted to pets or livestock. However, the Ohio Department of Agriculture confirmed discovery of EHD in a cattle herd in northeast Ohio Sept. 19. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr and search for EHD. Volunteers step up to close Green Street on Halloween by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer When the Hastings City Council no longer had to choose between the safety of children trick-or-treating on one of the municipality’s busiest streets or keeping $850 in its coffers, it unanimously approved a motion to close a section of Green Street for Halloween. Earlier this month the council denied a request to close the street, by a 4-3 vote, after some council members said the $850 in overtime pay for department of public services workers to place and remove barricades at the intersections and cross streets was prohibitive. However, once the Hastings Rotary Club and other groups and individuals volunteered to place and remove the barricades at no cost to the city, the obstacles to aye votes by council members Barry Wood and Jeri DePue and mayor pro-tem Brenda McNabb-Stange were removed. Green Street between South Broadway and Cass Street will be closed from 5 to 8 p.m. for trick-or-treating Wednesday, Oct. 31. Hastings DPS workers will drop off the barricades near the intersections and cross streets during regular working hours Oct. 31, and pick them up the next day. It has been estimated that West Green Street regularly attracts between 1,000 to 1,500 trick-ortreaters each Halloween. The council also received a request from Rutland township resident Jon Schmidt for the city to schedule trick-or-treating in the municipality on the last Saturday of October each year. Schmidt said he enjoys the holiday and more children seem to participate when the holiday falls on a weekend. While he is a not a resident of the city, he said he feels that if Hastings took the lead, other townships and municipalities would follow its example. The council took no action on Schmidt’s request other than to place it on file. In other business, the council: • Approved a request from Valerie Byrnes, chair of the Hastings Farmers Market to conduct the annual harvest festival activities, which will include closing off Church Street, between East State Street and East Court Street from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for a tractor show, music, children’s activities and more. The request also included permission for downtown merchants to place scarecrows on various street lamp posts throughout the downtown area from Friday, Oct. 5. through Friday, Oct. 19. • Heard a report from Hastings Police Chief Jerry Sarver who said he wanted to remind parents to obey traffic signs around schools. He said his officers have been and will be out during the peak drop-off and pickup hours of 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. and 3 to 3:20 p.m. to see that the signs are obeyed and issue citations, if necessary. • Announced that a brief grand opening celebration will be held at 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 8, at the Michigan Avenue bridge. �Page 14 — Thursday, September 27, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES FORECLOSURE NOTICE RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES, P.C. MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. Mortgage Sale - Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by Dennis J. Coughlin and Lucinda A. Coughlin, Husband and Wife to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., acting solely as nominee for Amerifirst Financial Corporation, Mortgagee, dated March 19, 2009, and recorded on March 25, 2009, as Document Number: 200903250002673, Barry County Records, said mortgage was assigned to Bank of America, N.A. by an Assignment of Mortgage dated April 23, 2012 and recorded May 08, 2012 by Document Number: 201205080005351, , on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Seventy-One Thousand Nine Hundred Five and 34/100 ($271,905.34) including interest at the rate of 5.00000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the Circuit Court in said Barry County, where the premises to be sold or some part of them are situated, at 01:00 PM on October 18, 2012 Said premises are situated in the Township of PRAIRIEVILLE, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A PARCEL OF LAND IN THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 26, TOWN 1 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST, DESCRIBED AS: BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE NORTH AND SOUTH QUARTER LINE OF SAID SECTION 26, DISTANCE SOUTH 00 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, 1582.46 FEET FROM THE NORTH QUARTER POST OF SAID SECTION 26; THENCE CONTINUING SOUTH 00 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST ALONG SAID NORTH AND SOUTH QUARTER LINE, 330.00 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 90 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST, AT RIGHT ANGLES TO SAID NORTH AND SOUTH QUARTER LINE, 660.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 63 DEGREES 40 MINUTES 33 SECONDS WEST, 493.85 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 90 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST, 660.00 FEET TO THE CENTER OF NORRIS ROAD; THENCE NORTH 19 DEGREES 05 MINUTES 53 SECONDS WEST ALONG SAID CENTERLINE OF NORRIS ROAD, 940.00 FEET TO A POINT WHICH LIES SOUTH 00 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, 805.2 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 90 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST, 2070.19 FEET FROM THE NORTH QUARTER POST OF SAID SECTION 26; THENCE NORTH 90 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, 660.0 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 43 DEGREES 59 MINUTES 05 SECONDS EAST, 1080.24 FEET; THENCE NORTH 90 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, 660.00 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. EXCEPT: A PARCEL OF LAND IN THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 26, TOWN 1 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST, DESCRIBED AS: BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE NORTH AND SOUTH QUARTER LINE OF SAID SECTION 26, DISTANT SOUTH 00 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, 1582.46 FEET FROM THE NORTH QUARTER POST OF SAID SECTION 26; THENCE CONTINUING SOUTH 00 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, ALONG SAID NORTH AND SOUTH QUARTER LINE, 330.00 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 90 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST AT RIGHT ANGLES TO SAID NORTH AND SOUTH QUARTER LINE, 660.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 00 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECODNS WEST, 330.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 90 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, 660.00 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. TOGETHER WITH AN EASEMENT NON-EXCLUSIVE FOR INGRESS AND EGRESS OF THE NORTH 66 FEET OF ABOVE DESCRIPTION. Commonly known as: 14604 LOCKSHORE ROAD If the property is eventually sold at foreclosure sale, the redemption period will be 6.00 months from the date of sale unless the property is abandoned or used for agricultural purposes. If the property is determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 and/or 600.3241a, the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of sale, or 15 days after statutory notice, whichever is later. If the property is presumed to be used for agricultural purposes prior to the date of the foreclosure sale pursuant to MCL 600.3240, the redemption period is 1 year. Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages are, if any, limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: September 20, 2012 Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Bank of America, N.A. 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302, (248) 335-9200 Case 77571136 No. 12MI02876-1 (09-20)(10-11) GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Donald E Garrett and Autumn Garrett, Husband and Wife to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for Quicken Loans Inc. its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated September 22, 2006 and recorded September 26, 2006 in Instrument # 1170548 Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage was assigned to: Bank of America, N.A. successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, LP, by assignment dated June 21, 2012 and recorded July 2, 2012 in Instrument # 2012-001791 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fourteen Thousand Nine Hundred Thirteen Dollars and Eighteen Cents ($114,913.18) including interest 7.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on October 18, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Maple Grove, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land located in the North one-half of the South one-half of the Southeast one-quarter of Section 16, Town 2 North, Range 7 West, described as follows: beginning at a point on the East line of Section 16, which lies 983 feet North of the Southeast corner of said Section 16; thence South 88 degrees 23 minutes West 154 feet; thence South 323 feet parallel to the East section line; thence North 88 degrees 23 minutes East 154 feet; thence due North 323 feet to the place of beginning. Commonly known as 6810 Assyria Rd, Nashville MI 49073 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 9/20/2012 Bank of America, N.A. successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, LP, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-68444 (09-20)(10-11) 77571146 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Charles W. Mead, a married man and Janice M. Mead, his wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated June 30, 2003 and recorded July 7, 2003 in Instrument Number 1108007, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Wells Fargo Bank, NA by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Five Thousand Nine Hundred Nine and 94/100 Dollars ($85,909.94) including interest at 5.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 10/04/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Beginning at a point on the East and West 1/4 line of Section 27, Town 4 North, Range 8 West, Carlton Township, Barry County, Michigan, Distant East 765 feet from the West 1/4 corner of said Section 27; thence East 220 feet along said 1/4 line; thence South 231 feet at right angles with said 1/4 line; thence West 220 feet; thence North 231 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: September 6, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 326.9682 77570878 (09-06)(09-27) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Monte K. Sauers, a married man and Joy A. Sauers, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated October 25, 2006, and recorded on November 13, 2006 in instrument 1172609, and assigned by said Mortgagee to CitiMortgage, Inc. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fifty-Eight Thousand Nine Hundred Ninety-Two and 15/100 Dollars ($158,992.15). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on October 25, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Assyria, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The East 30 acres of the South 1/2 of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 10, Town 1 North, Range 7 West, Except beginning at the Southeast corner of said Section, thence West on the South Section line 511 feet 3 inches; thence North parallel with the East Section line 255 feet 6 inches; thence East to East Section line 511 feet 3 inches; thence South on East Section line 255 feet 6 inches to place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: September 27, 2012 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #290314F02 (09-27)(10-18) 77571185 FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Judy A Gray Loy, An Unmarried Woman to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for American Sterling Bank its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated October 29, 2007 and recorded November 13, 2007 in Instrument # 20071113-0004079 Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage was assigned to: BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P., by assignment dated August 4, 2010 and recorded August 9, 2010 in Instrument # 201008090007410 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Two Thousand Nine Hundred Ninety-Seven Dollars and Ninety-One Cents ($82,997.91) including interest 3.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on October 25, 2012 Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North 50 feet of Lot 82 of Mix Addition to the Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof; also commencing 23 feet North of the Southeast corner of said Lot 82, Mix Addition to the Village of Nashville; thence East 28 feet; North 50 feet; West 28 feet; South 50 feet to the place of beginning. Subject to and together with; an easement for the purposes of ingress and egress over the following portion of Lot 82 of the Mix Addition to the Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof, beginning at the Northwest corner of said lot and thence Easterly along the lot line 100 feet, Southerly 6 feet parallel to Phillips Street, thence Westerly 100 feet to the West line of said lot, and thence Northerly 6 feet to the place of beginning. This easement intended for the purposes of establishing a joint driveway, for the purpose of ingress and egress only between Lots 82 and 83 of Mix Addition, without the rights to park or otherwise block this easement. Also subject to and together with; an easement for the purposes of ingress and egress over the following portion of Lot 83 of the Mix Addition to the Village of Nashville, according to the recorded plat thereof, beginning in the Southwest corner of said lot, thence Easterly along the lot line 100 feet, thence Northerly 6 feet parallel to Phillips Street, thence Westerly 100 feet to the West line of said lot, and thence Southerly to the place of beginning. This easement intended for the purpose of ingress and egress only between Lots 82 and 83 of the Mix Addition, without the rights to park otherwise block or use this easement. Commonly known as 116 Phillips St, Nashville MI 49073 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 9/27/2012 Bank of America, N.A. successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P., fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, LP Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-68833 (09-27)(10-18) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Erin E. Hall and Gary N. Hall, wife and husband, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated March 23, 2004, and recorded on April 1, 2004 in instrument 1124511, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Flagstar Bank, FSB as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ten Thousand Six Hundred Seventy-Three and 80/100 Dollars ($110,673.80). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on October 25, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Part of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 19, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, described as: Beginning at a point on the North Section line; thence North 89 degrees 20 minutes 58 seconds East, 800 feet from the Northwest corner of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West, parallel with the West line of said Section 289.00 feet; thence North 89 degrees 20 minutes 58 seconds East, parallel with the North line of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 19, 256.00 feet; thence North 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East 289.00 feet; thence South 89 degrees 20 minutes 58 seconds West on said North line 256.00 feet to the Place of Beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: September 27, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #408547F01 77571151 (09-27)(10-18) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by David R. Scott, an unmarried man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Amerifirst Financial Corporation its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated June 20, 2011, and recorded on July 1, 2011 in instrument 201107010006447, and rerecorded on August 8, 2011 in instrument 201108080007508, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eleven Thousand One Hundred Thirty-Six and 17/100 Dollars ($111,136.17). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on October 11, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Northeast corner of Section 1, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, thence Westerly along the North Section line 396.00 feet; thence South parallel to the East line of Section 220 feet; thence Easterly parallel to the North line of Section 396.00 feet to the East line of said Section; thence North on the East line 220 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: September 13, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #408609F01 (09-13)(10-04) 77570977 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Kirk Robert Reed and Candace Kay Reed, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated February 3, 2003, and recorded on February 11, 2003 in instrument 1097473, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Nationstar Mortgage LLC as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-Two Thousand Five Hundred Ninety and 56/100 Dollars ($162,590.56). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on October 11, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 92 and 93, Valley Park Shores No. 2, according to the recorded plat thereof in Liber 5 of Plats, on Page 62 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: September 13, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #092873F02 (09-13)(10-04) 77570984 FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: James E. Richard and Tammy A. Richard, husband and wife to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Flagstar Bank, FSB, its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated April 30, 2008 and recorded May 8, 2008 in Instrument # 20080508-0004963 and modified by agreement recorded May 23, 2012 in Instrument # 2012-000475 Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage was assigned to: Flagstar Bank, FSB, by assignment dated September 30, 2011 and recorded October 13, 2011in Instrument # 201110130009587 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Five Thousand Sixty Dollars and Two Cents ($125,060.02) including interest 3.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on October 18, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Part of Lots 11 and 24 of Culberts Plat No. 3, and land adjacent to Culberts Plat No.3 in Section 33, Town 4 North, Range 8 West, Carlton Township, Barry County, Michigan, commencing at the North one fourth post of said Section 33, thence South 00 degrees 51 minutes West 501.87 feet (501.87 measured) thence North 88 degrees 51 minutes West 440 feet (North 88 degrees 55 minutes West 439.91 measured) thence South 00 degrees 51 minutes West 312.50 feet (312.72 measured) the South line of said Lot 24, thence North 88 degrees 51 minutes West 96.21 feet (96.40 measured) to the Southwest corner of said Lot 24, thence North 12 degrees 21 minutes West 238.55 feet (238.23 measured) to the Northwest corner of said Lot 24, thence North 24 degrees 40 minutes West 50.24 feet (North 24 degrees 38 minutes West 50.34 measured) along the Easterly line of said Lot 11, thence South 80 degrees 42 minutes West 185.65 feet (185.70 measured) to the Westerly line of said Lot 11, thence North 24 degrees 40 minutes West (North 24 degrees 36 minutes West measured) 71.79 feet to the Northwest corner of Lot 11, thence North 65 degrees 20 minutes East (North 65 degrees 16 minutes East measured) 9.90 feet thence South 88 degrees 51 minutes East (South 88 degrees 55 minutes East measured) 377.18 feet to the place of beginning, Barry County Records. Commonly known as 39 Culbert Dr, Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 9/20/2012 Flagstar Bank, FSB, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-68521 (09-20)(10-11) 77571141 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 27, 2012 — Page 15 LEGAL NOTICES IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Steven Hard, a married man and Patricia Hard, a married woman, to CitiMortgage, Inc., successor by merger with ABN Amro Mortgage Group, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 1, 2002 and recorded April 4, 2002 in Instrument Number 1077672, Barry County Records, Michigan. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Three Thousand Eight Hundred Fifty-Four and 80/100 Dollars ($93,854.80) including interest at 6.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 10/18/2012 Said premises are located in the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, described as follows: Lot 937 of the City, formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: September 20, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 671.3827 77571122 (09-20)(10-11) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF A MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on April 23, 1996, by David C. Wingeier and Nancy M. Wingeier, husband and wife, and Ronald D. Berg and Carolyn P. Berg, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, given by them to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on April 25, 1996, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Liber 658, Page 131, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank by an Assignment of Mortgage dated July 20, 2012, recorded on July 26, 2012, in Instrument Number 2012-002579, Barry County Records, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of Fifty-Two Thousand Six Hundred NinetyFour and 53/100 Dollars ($52,694.53); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, October 25, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF ORANGEVILLE, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: Commencing at the Southwest corner of the Northeast quarter of the Northeast quarter of Section 9, Town 2 North, Range 10 West, running thence Northerly 450 feet along the East one-eighth line of said Section 9; thence Easterly 10 feet at right angles; thence Northerly 232 feet parallel with said East one-eighth line for the true place of beginning; thence continuing Northerly 232 feet parallel with said East oneeighth line; thence Southeasterly to a point in the centerline of Lindsey Road which lies 779 feet Northeasterly from the intersection of said centerline and the North one-eighth line of said Section 9; thence Southwesterly 220 feet along the centerline; thence Northwesterly to the place of beginning, Orangeville Township, Barry County, Michigan. Commonly known as: 5180 Lindsey Road, Delton, Michigan 49046 Parcel Number: 08-11-009-013-75 The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: August 22, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933 (517) 371-8253 29293:00117:1414250-1 (09-20)(10-11) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Cathleen S. Tibble, an unmarried woman, to Option One Mortgage Corporation, a California Corporation, Mortgagee, dated January 17, 2003 and recorded January 24, 2003 in Instrument Number 1096135, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Trustee for Option One Mortgage Loan Trust 2003-2, AssetBacked Certificates, Series 2003-2 by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Four Thousand Two Hundred Four and 24/100 Dollars ($94,204.24) including interest at 8.15% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 10/18/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: CR/A parcel of land in the Southeast 1/4 of Section 14, Town 4 North, Range 8 West, Described as: Commencing at the Southwest corner of the West 1/2 of the Northeast 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 14; thence North 166 feet; thence East 400 feet, more or less, to the Shore of the Lake; thence South to the South side of said Northeast 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4; thence West to the beginning, except the South 24 feet thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: September 20, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 356.4378 77571101 (09-20)(10-11) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Ronald W. Stasch and Gertrude A. Stasch, Husband and Wife as tenants by the entireties., to Greenfield Mortgage, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 13, 2003 and recorded September 5, 2003 in Instrument Number 1112574, and Assignment of mortgage recorded on06/14/07 Document No. 1181740, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by GMAC Mortgage, LLC successor by merger to GMAC Mortgage Corp. by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Six Thousand Four Hundred FortyOne and 98/100 Dollars ($66,441.98) including interest at 6.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 10/04/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 6 of Balm-Meer Plat according to the recorded plat thereof as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats on page 30, Section 33, Carlton Township, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: September 6, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 618.8419 77570883 (09-06)(09-27) 77571087 THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Gregory Young, a married man and Brandi Young, F/K/A Brandi Miller, his wife to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. , Mortgagee, dated October 8, 2008, and recorded October 28, 2008, in Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by GMAC Mortgage, LLC by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of $142,942.14 (one hundred fortytwo thousand nine hundred forty-two and 14/100) including interest at 3.75% (three point seven five) percent per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI at 1:00:00 PM on October 25, 2012. Said premises are located in the City of Hastings, Barry County Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, is described as follows: Situated in the City of Hastings, County of Barry and State of Michigan: Lot 57 of HASTINGS HEIGHTS, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats, Page 41 of Plats. Also the East 1/2 of vacated alley adjacent to said parcel on West side. Commonly known as: 1524 N. Jefferson Tax Parcel No.: 55-055-028-00 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, you may have certain rights. Dated: September 27, 2012 By: Foreclosing Attorneys Attorney for Plaintiff Weltman, Weinberg & Reis Co., L.P.A. 2155 Butterfield Drive Suite 200-S Troy, MI 48084 WWR# 10104638 77571232 (09-27)(10-18) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded bay the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Robert A. Myers Jr, a single man aka Robert Myers, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 8, 2009, and recorded on January 16, 2009 in instrument 20090116-0000463, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Twenty-One Thousand Four Hundred Ninety-Eight and 26/100 Dollars ($221,498.26). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on October 11, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Castleton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That Part Of The West 1/2 Of The West 1/2 Of The Southeast 1/4 Of Section 20, Town 3 North, Range 7 West. Commencing At The South 1/4 Comer Of Said Section, Thence North 89 Degrees 37 Minutes 01 Seconds East Along The South Line Of Said Section 673.55 Feet To The East Line Of The West 1/2 Of The West 1/2 Of The Southeast 1/4 Of Said Section; Being The Centerline Of Barger Road; Thence North 00 Degrees 21 Minutes 40 Seconds East Along Said East Fine And Centerline 330.00 Feet To The Point Of Beginning Of This Description; Thence South 89 Degrees 37 Minutes 01 Seconds West, 717.25 Feet; Thence North 00 Degrees 21 Minutes 40 Seconds East 1940.98 Feet To Traverse Point No. 1 On A Random Traverse; Thence Continuing North 00 Degrees 21 Minutes 40 Seconds East To The Centerline Of Thomapple River; Thence East Along Said River’s Centerline To The East Line Of The West 1/2 Of The West 1/2 Of The Southeast 1/4 Of Said Section, Being The Centerline Of Barger Road; Thence South 00 Degrees 21 Minutes 40 Seconds West Along Said East Line And The Centerline Of Barger Road 66.64 Feet To Traverse Point No. 7 On Said Random Traverse, Thence Continuing South 00 Degrees 21 Minutes 40 Seconds West Along Said East Line And Road Centerline 1925.96 Feet To The Point Of Beginning. Said Random Traverse Being Described As: Beginning At Traverse Point No. 1 Being On The Southerly Bank Of Tahoma River; Thence South 47 Degrees 30 Minutes 23 Seconds East Along Said Bank 237.59 Feet To Traverse Point No. 2; Thence South 88 Degrees 09 Minutes 45 Seconds East Along Said Bank 70.35 Feet To Traverse Point No. 3; Thence North 76 Degrees 18 Minutes 42 Seconds East Along Said Bank 272.05 Feet To Traverse Point No. 4; Thence South 74 Degrees 05 Minutes 32 Seconds East Along Said Bank 76.62 Feet To Traverse Point No. 5; Thence North 42 Degrees 37 Minutes 08 Seconds East Along Said Bank 148.61 Feet To Traverse Point No. 6; Thence South 89 Degrees 38 Minutes 20 Seconds East 33.00 Feet To Hs Point Of Ending At Traverse Point. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: September 13, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #409473F01 (09-13)(10-04) 77570940 STATE OF MICHIGAN 56B JUDICIAL DISTRICT JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY PROBATE 206 W. Court St., Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 945-1404 ORDER FOR SERVICE BY PUBLICATION/POSTING AND NOTICE OF ACTION CASE NO. 12-0899-SP GRAND BANK FOR SAVINGS, FSB Stephanie C. Kamykowski (P74223) Trott & Trott, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy., #200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 (248) 341-4772 v ROBIN L. ALLEN, a/k/a ROBIN PETERS All Occupants 10660 Maple Grove Rd. Nashville, MI 49073 TO: ROBIN L. ALLEN, a/k/a ROBIN PETERS IT IS ORDERED: 1. You are being sued in this court by the plaintiff to recover possession of property after Land Contract Forfeiture. You must file your answer or take other action permitted by law in this court at the court address above on or before 10/3/12 at 9:00 a.m. If you fail to do so, a default judgment may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint filed in this case. 2. A copy of this order shall be published once each week in Hastings Banner for three consecutive weeks, and proof of publication shall be filed in this court. 3. Rick E. Risk shall post a copy of this order in the courthouse, and at 10660 Maple Grove Rd., Nashville, MI 49073 and at The Dayton Tennessee City Court - 399 1st Avenue, Dayton, TN 37321 once a week for 3 weeks, and shall file proof of posting in this court. 4. A copy of this order shall be sent to Robin L. Allen, a/k/a Robin Peters at the last known address by registered mail, return receipt requested, before the date of the last publication, and the affidavit of mailing shall be filed with this court. Date: July 9, 2012 Judge Michael L. Schipper (P42154) 77571005 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Richard J. Meade and Shawnda L. Meade, husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated September 26, 2006 and recorded October 2, 2006 in Instrument Number 1170796, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by The Bank of New York Mellon f/k/a The Bank of New York as successor trustee for JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Trustee for the benefit of the Certificate holders of Popular ABS, Inc. Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates Series 2006-E by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fifty-Five Thousand Eight Hundred Thirty-Two and 14/100 Dollars ($155,832.14) including interest at 8.38% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 10/18/2012 Said premises are located in the Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That certain parcel of land situated in the Village of Nashville, Castleton Township, Barry County, Michigan, more particularly described as: A parcel of land in the Northwest 1/4 and the Northeast 1/4 of Section 36, Town 3 North, Range 7 West, Village of Nashville, Castleton Township, Barry County, Michigan, the surveyed boundary of said parcel described as: Commencing at the intersection of the East line of Lentz Street and the North line of Reed Street; thence East along said North line 255.00 feet to the point of beginning of this description; thence North perpendicular to said North line 168.15 feet to a point on an intermediate traverse line, said point being South 18 feet more or less from the water's edge of the Thornapple River; thence N64ø34'49"E along said intermediate traverse line 108.73 feet to a point South 23 feet more or less from said waters edge; thence South perpendicular to said North line 41.46 feet; thence East parallel with said North line 3.80 feet; thence South perpendicular to said North line 173.36 feet; thence West 102.00 feet to the point of beginning; including lands lying between the intermediate traverse line and the water's edge of the Thornapple River. Together with a non-exclusive easement for the purposes of ingress and egress over a parcel described as: Commencing at the intersection of the North line of Reed Street with the East line of Lentz Street in the Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan; thence East 357 feet for a place of beginning; thence North 180 feet; thence East 20 feet; thence South 180 feet; thence West 20 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: September 20, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 189.4797 77571106 (09-20)(10-11) THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. MORTGAGE SALE—Default has been made in the conditions of a Mortgage made by TIMOTHY LEE COLBURN AND JEANETTE ELLEN NORRIS, a single man and a single woman, Mortgagors, to NPB MORTGAGE, LLC, Mortgagee, dated September 13, 2005, and recorded September 19, 2005, Instrument Number 1153020, of Barry County Records, Michigan, which mortgage has been assigned by mesne assignments to First National Acceptance Company, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due as of the date of this notice $76,709.37, including interest at 12.95% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to the statutes of the State of Michigan, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public auction to the highest bidder, on Thursday, October 11, 2012, at 1 o’clock in the afternoon, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, Michigan. Said premises are situated in the Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 16 of Sundago Park, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, Page 71, Barry County Records; c/k/a 82 Sundago Park, Hastings, MI 49058 The redemption period shall be six months from the date of the sale, unless the premises are determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days. Please be advised that if the mortgaged property is sold at a foreclosure sale by advertisement, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 you will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale, or to the mortgage holder, for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: September 13, 2012 LeVasseur Dyer & Associates, PC Attorneys for Mortgagee Assignee P.O. Box 721400 Berkley, MI 48072 (248) 586-1200 (0913)(10-04) 77571000 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF A MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on June 23, 2008, by Daniel P. Buerge, a single man, as Mortgagor, given by him to First National Bank of America, whose address is 241 E. Saginaw Hwy., Suite 600, P.O. Box 980, East Lansing, Michigan 48826-0980, as Mortgagee, and recorded on June 27, 2008, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 20080627-0006666, which mortgage has been assigned to Rose Acceptance, Inc., on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of Forty-Two Thousand One Hundred Ninety-Seven and 33/100 Dollars ($42,197.33); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, October 25, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF HOPE, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: Lots 12 and 13 of Oakridge Shores, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 89, being a part of the Northeast fractional quarter of Section 19, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, Hope Township. Commonly known as: 322 Lakeside Drive, Delton, Michigan 49046. Tax parcel number: 08-07-240009-00. The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: September 19, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. ROSE ACCEPTANCE, INC. Benjamin J. Price of East Lansing, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933 (517) 371-8253 (09-20)(10-11) 77571111 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Rosemary Ann Davis, a married woman and Joel C. Davis, as to homestead rights only, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 9, 2007, and recorded on August 20, 2007 in instrument 20070820-0001071, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Chemical Bank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eleven Thousand Five Hundred Thirty-Two and 08/100 Dollars ($111,532.08). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on October 4, 2012. Said premises are situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 11, Plat of Thornton Addition, Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats, Page 72. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: September 6, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #396291F03 77570733 (09-06)(09-27) �Page 16 — Thursday, September 27, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Cougars’ top three too tough on their home course by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Cougars have their sights set on their third straight Division 4 State Championship, HHS girls third, boys not far from third at Bangor Invite Trista Straube was the champion, Rachel Rimer was another medalist, and Maria Palacio shaved 30 seconds off her best time ever to help the Hastings varsity girls’ cross country team to a third place finish Saturday in the 140-team Division 1 standings at the Bangor Invitational. Straube won the race in 19 minutes 7 seconds, finishing well ahead of Plainwell’s Makenzie Evers, the runner-up who finished in 19:28. The only other girl under 20 minutes was Allegan’s Jessica Shaw, who finished in 19:51. Behind Straube, Rimer was 15th in 21:46, Olivia Rose 30th in 23:00, Palacio 34th in 23:30 and Haley Perkins 43rd in 24:03. Plainwell had five girls in the top 17 to take the day’s team championship with just 56 points. Behind Evers, the Trojans also had Haley Betts eighth in 20:51, Cara Minto 13th in 21:32, Rachel Buck 16th in 21:50 and Oriana Benincasa 17th in 21:54. Cadillac was second with 78 points, followed by Hastings 122, Bloomingdale 156, Allegan 186, Hartford 187, Paw Paw 190, Watervliet 191, Grand Rapids Union 197, and would like to pick up a Capital Area Activities Conference White Division title along the way. Lansing Catholic cleared its biggest hurdle Lakewood’s Kennedy Hilley taps a putt across the green on number five Tuesday afternoon at Groesbeck Golf Course in Lansing. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Lakewood’s Olivia Barker watches her tee shot fly on number eight at Groesbeck Golf Course Lansing Tuesday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 Lost & Found Automotive For Sale LOST: REWARD OFFERED! Luci, brown & white Shih-Tzu mix and Snickers, black Lab. Missing since 9/23/12. If found call (269)721-3142, 269)339-7786 or (269)320-3353. RICK TAYLOR’S DETAIL WORKS. CLEANING CARS OVER 44 YEARS 8:00 TO 5:00, MONDAY TO SATURDAY. (269)948-0958 AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 DO YOU WANT QUALITY PRINTING at affordable Business Services prices? Call J-Ad Graphics at BASEMENT WATER- (269)945-9554. PROOFING: PROFESSIONAL BASEMENT SERVIn Memoriam ICES waterproofing, crack IN MEMORY OF repair, mold remediation. Mary Frey Local/licensed. Free estiSeptember 23, 2002 mates. (517)290-5556. It has been 10 years since you left us here on earth. Help Wanted It seems like only yesterday we were all together laughDRIVERS: Change Gears! Home Daily! Sign-On Bonus. ing and enjoying your company. Great Miles, Money, HomeMay God bless you and time. CDL-A, 1yr exp. MTS: grant you peace. 800-748-0192 x208/x214 Your husband Bob, children Karen, Kenny & Roxanne OWNER OPERATORS and your many grand and W/TANDEM Axle Tractors. great-grandchildren. Dedicated Auto Parts Runs. Pickup in Spring Hill, TN to National Ads Lansing, MI. Great Pay, Benefits, Hometime! CDL-A, THIS PUBLICATION 18mo Exp. 22YOA. Clean DOES NOT KNOWINGLY MVR. 800-723-6046 x227. accept advertising which is deceptive, fraudulent or might otherwise violate law Community Notices or accepted standards of TOTS FALL ALMOST taste. However, this publicaNEW SALE: October 6th, tion does not warrant or 2012, 9am-1pm, Cherry guarantee the accuracy of Creek Elementary, 12675 any advertisement, nor the Foreman, Lowell. FREE to quality of goods or services shop FREE to sell! To re- advertised. Readers are causerve a spot call Lori @ tioned to thoroughly investiTOTS 616-987-2532. gate all claims made in any advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you ask for money in advance of delivery of goods or services advertised. CLASSIC OUTDOOR WOOD FURNACE- Heat your home & water. Buy NOW & save up to $350. Call SOS your “Stocking Dealer, Dutton, MI (616)5548669 or 616-915-5061. Estate Sale ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. For Rent FOR RENT: 629 W. Grand Street, Hastings. 3 blocks from Central School and Middle School. 3 bedrooms, 1 3/4 bathrooms, living/dining room, kitchen. Fenced in back yard and 2 stall garage. Full basement with half done for more living space. Comes with stove, refrigerator, washer & dryer. $850 a month plus deposit. Call Deb at (269)948-2809 MIDDLE LAKE RENTAL: 3BD apartment. All appliances included, washer, dryer, central air. 1st months rent plus security deposit. Call Joe (269)838-2650. Garage Sale CHURCH GARAGE SALE: Saturday 9/29, 1240 W. State Rd. (old Knights of Columbus) 9am-4pm. Recreation PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. OPTIMAL MEDICAL STAFFING Current Openings RN/LPN PRIVATE DUTY Nashville/Marshall/Springport/Jackson Trach/Vent Experience Preferred FT/PT – NIGHTS/days ************************ HHAs/CNAs Battle Creek, Kalamazoo, Jackson areas (including Albion, Homer, Three Rivers, Galesburg) FT/PT – days/nights Please send letter or resume to: recruiter@optimalstaffing.com or fax to: 517-394-7716 77571285 77564784 WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are interested in leasing acreage for this years deer season. Call (269)795-3049 of the conference duals, knocking off Lakewood 167 to 187 at Groesbeck Golf Course in Lansing Tuesday afternoon. The Cougars are currently 4-0 in the conference, and ranked first again in Division 4. The Vikings, who suffered their first league loss and are now 3-1 in the league, are ranked sixth in the state in Division 3. “You go out and you play the golf course, you’re not playing head to head,” said Lakewood head coach Carl Kutch after the match. “You’re playing the golf course.” Lakewood didn’t play poorly despite the 20 stroke difference. The Vikings were happy to have four scorers in the 40s, the Cougars didn’t accomplish that. Olivia Barker led the way for Lakewood with a 43. Jacqueline Setas, one of the top golfers in the state, led the Cougars with a 38. The two were neck and neck through the first four holes, until Barker three-putted on five and six. “One putt was down hill and a really big breaker, and I just had too much speed on it,” Barker said. “The other one, I just left it short - a lot short.” Even on those holes though, Barker managed bogies. Avoiding trouble holes, with results worse than bogies, is something Kutch said his team is really focused on. Lakewood also got a 47 from Kennedy Hilley, a 48 from Victoria Hager and a 49 from Bryonna Barton. The Cougars’ top three were very good, with Janie Fineis adding a 39 and Danni Crilley a 40. Mary Beth Maddalena and Lauren Burnet each shot a 50 for the Cougars. Winning a conference title won’t be easy for the Vikings, but they’ll do their best to make sure it isn’t easy for the Cougars either. Lakewood and Lansing Catholic will meet again Oct. 4 in Williamston at the league’s 18-hole tournament. The Vikings close out the league duals by hosting Corunna Thursday and visiting Stockbridge Tuesday. While the Cougars have goals beyond the league, so do the Vikings. They’re eyeing the program’s first ever team trip to the state finals. COURT NEWS Chad Daniel Cullers, 23, of Middleville was sentenced in Barry County Circuit Court Sept. 19 for possession of marijuana and operating impaired. He was ordered to serve 30 days in jail, with credit for one day served. He must pay $775 and serve 12 months on probation. The last 20 days of his jail sentence was suspended. A work release was granted by Judge Amy McDowell. Cullers must pay $125 per month toward court assessments. Charges dropped included carrying a concealed weapon; operating a vehicle with the presence of controlled substances, second offense; and having an open container of alcohol in the vehicle. Sean Steven Austin, 26, of Hastings was sentenced Sept. 19 for operating under the influence of liquor, third offense. He was ordered by Judge Amy McDowell to serve 11 months in jail, with credit for two days served. He must pay $2,448 in court assessments and serve 36 months on probation. The last eight months of his jail sentence will be suspended pending successful completion of drug court. Austin’s driver’s license was suspended. He must pay $150 per month toward court assessments. A work release was granted. Charges of operating on a suspended, revoked or denied license, second or subsequent offense, and failure to report an accident were dropped. Berrien Springs 244, South Haven 250, Niles 277, Bangor 308 and Buchanan 323. South Haven had four guys in the top ten to win the boys’ meet with just 48 points. Nathan Vanderroest, the individual champion, led the Buccaneers in 16:38. His teammate Evan Hendrix was second in 16:46. The Saxons were fifth, not far from third. Watervliet was second with 50 points, followed by Bangor 115, Cadillac 115, Hastings 129, Berrien Springs 176, Constantine 193, Plainwell 215, Allegan 263, Grand Rapids Union 263, Hartford 264, Niles 276 and Paw Paw 332. Ronnie Collins led Hastings with his eighth-place time of 17:37. Jake Miller was ten seconds back in 17th at 17:47. Chance Miller was right there too, 18th in 17:53. Hastings also had Garrett Bowers 42nd in 19:16 and Jacob 44th in 19:19. Collins and the two Miller boys all returned to Hastings with medals. Collins and Pratt both shaved more than 30 seconds off their previous best times of the season on the wet, slippery course. POLICE BEAT driver was subsequently arrested for assault and battery. Stolen phone used The in extortion attempt Hunter loses Hastings City Police received a report Sept. 9 of a stolen cell phone. An 18-yearhis way – and old high school senior reportedly had set down his cell phone while having his senior pictures taken. When he finished the his freedom photo session, the phone was missing. His mother dialed the missing cell phone, and a male answered. He was told who the phone belonged to and requested its return. He allegedly demanded $25 and threatened to throw the phone in the river if he didn’t get the money. The mother hung up. Using the stolen cell phone, the male called back wanting the money. The mother said she could not find him without knowing what he looked like. He said he was wearing a green shirt and had long frizzy hair and gave his location. He reportedly told the mother, “You better get here with my money. Me and my goons are waiting.” Police arrived and recognized the suspect from his description, but there was no goon squad. The phone was recovered and returned. A report was forwarded to probate court for review because the attempted extortionist is 15 years old. Marijuana stolen from greenhouse Deputies were called to an Upton Road residence Sept. 20 on a reported theft of marijuana plants. The homeowner said someone had taken $6,600 worth of marijuana — 11 six-foot plants — from his secured greenhouse. He said the suspect must have climbed up the stacked firewood next to the greenhouse, cut the ventilation screen at the roof peak and crawled inside. The man, who has a valid medical marijuana card, reported the suspect had broken the plants off at the base and carried them from the greenhouse. Deputies spoke with neighbors, and there are no suspects. The case is inactive. Poor parking leads to a punch Hastings Police, called to Richie’s Coffee Shop Sept. 5 for a reported assault, arrived to find several people pointing at a green truck leaving the area. The truck was stopped by police several blocks down the street and the driver questioned. The 68year-old Middleville man said he had parked his truck, but thought he might be too close to another vehicle, so he backed up and moved it over to one side. He told police as he left his truck, he noticed several people were looking at him from the window of Richie’s Coffee Shop, but he continued on to his appointment. According to the driver, when he returned to his parked truck, the subjects in the restaurant were still looking at him. He told police he went into the coffee shop where the onlookers said he had parked too close to one of their vehicles. Reportedly, words were exchanged, and the driver said he left the restaurant when one of the onlookers stood up aggressively. Police returned to Richie’s and interviewed several restaurant-goers who had witnessed the incident. Reportedly, the story remained consistent with the driver’s, up to the point of the person standing up. Witnesses said when the person stood, the truck driver called him a name, to which the diner replied with another name. The driver then punched the diner in the head and made a hasty exit. One witness said the punch was to the neck. Barry County Central Dispatch operators told sheriff deputies of two hunters lost in the woods in the vicinity of Engle Road and Grange Road near Middleville Sept. 17. Pinpointing one of the hunter’s cell phone signal, dispatch was able to put the phone a quarter-mile west of Engle Road. Deputies responded to the area and turned on lights and sirens. Deputies found the hunters, who said they did possess a firearm, but it was unloaded. Deputies escorted the 27-yearold Grand Ledge man and his girlfriend from the woods and took temporary possession of the firearm. The two subjects believed they were parked on Solomon Road near Roundtree Drive. Deputies ran a routine background checks on both subjects and learned that the man had three outstanding warrants. The girlfriend was allowed to drive away, but the man was taken into custody. During the booking process at Barry County Jail, the man started vomiting and was transported to Pennock Hospital. He admitted to ingesting several Ecstasy pills and a small amount of hallucinogenic mushrooms prior to law enforcement finding him in the woods. Reportedly, he told medical personnel he did not want authorities to find the controlled substances. He was admitted to the hospital for treatment. The case is closed. Safes stolen from Woodland home Deputies responded to a breaking and entering report Sept. 11 at a Woodland home on East Thatcher Street. The homeowner told deputies her house had been broken into during the day and two safes were missing from the bedroom closet. She said the larger safe contained coin collections, keys and personal information, such as birth certificates. The smaller safe was empty. She said she and her daughter had left the house earlier in the day and when they returned, the door was open. Deputies spoke with several neighbors, but no one witnessed anything unusual. The value of stolen property is estimated at $3,000. The case remains open. ATVs and trailer taken from barn A man called Barry County Deputies Aug. 13 to report several ATVs being stolen from his grandmother’s Duncan Lake Road residence in Thornapple Township. He said a Polaris 700, a Kawasaki 650 Brute Force quad, a Genesis six-by-12-foot trailer, three 1978 Corvette wheel rims, and a quantity of copper pipe were missing. The vehicles were stored in the barn, and the trailer was kept outside, he said. Tire tracks led to the barn and deputies took photographs of the imprints. The victim said both ATVs would fit on the trailer if placed sideways, but only one ATV if simply driven onto the trailer. The man supplied two names to deputies. Deputies also contacted Padnos metal recycling company in regard to the $300 worth of new irrigation copper pipes taken, but there was no confirmation of such a delivery. The value of the missing items is estimated at $13,000. Further investigation is pending. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 27, 2012 — Page 17 Hastings tops Hamilton; now on to homecoming It was the Saxons’ version of airing it out. Hastings quarterback Chase Huisman attempted five passes, completing three of them for 105 yards and a touchdown as his team knocked off visiting Hamilton 34-21 in non-conference action Friday night. Hastings is now 4-1 overall this season. As impressive as the passing numbers were for the Saxons Friday night, it was still the rushing attack that carried most of the load. Stephen Shaffer rushed the ball 28 times for 213 yards and two touchdowns, as part of a his second touchdown of the night, from two yards out, for the first points of the second half. Brady Zomer’s third extra-point kick of the night put his team up one. The Saxons responded with a six-play, 80yard drive that ended in a one-yard touchdown run by Huisman to get the lead back. Kenny Cross added the two-point conversion run for a 28-21 Saxon advantage. Hastings then tacked on a five-yard touchdown by French for the only points of the fourth quarter. Hastings built a 14-0 lead in the opening quarter thanks to a 68-yard touchdown run by Shaffer, the two-point run by French which followed, and then an 11-yard touchdown run by Shaffer. Hamilton answered with the first points of the second quarter, on a four-yard touchdown run by Nick Kronemeyer. Huisman completed a 54-yard touchdown pass to Michael Eastman to put his team back up two scores, before Schreur ended the firsthalf scoring with a five-yard touchdown run. Hastings led 20-14 at the break. The Hawkeyes did most of their moving of the football through the air. Kronemeyer completed 15 of 29 passes for 217 yards. Trenton Haverdink caught nine balls for 146 yards. Hastings will be home again this Friday, taking on Ottawa Hills for homecoming inside Baum Stadium at Johnson Field. The are 2-3 overall this season, and fell in their conference opener Sept. 14, 26-0 against Catholic Central. Swimmers don’t just win, they set records at GRCC Saxon running back Kenny Cross tries to pull away from Hamilton’s Ethan Buresh as his Hawkeye teammate Cameron Stoel closes in Friday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) The Saxons’ Jon French looks to turn up field with the ball during Friday’s nonconference contest with Hamilton. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Saxon backfield which totaled 381 yards on the ground. Jon French added 100 yards on 21 carries, and Kenny Cross chipped in 15 carries for another 81 yards. Hamilton rallied from a 14-point first quarter deficit to take a 21-20 lead in the second half. The Hawkeyes’ Thomas Schreur scored The Thornapple Kellogg/Hastings girls weren’t just faster than their competition. They were faster than anyone has ever been at least at the Raider Sprints. The Trojan varsity girls’ swimming and diving team won Grand Rapids Community College’s Raider Sprints for the sixth year in a row, besting runner-up Calvin Christian by 90 points. The TK/Hastings girls won six events, and set new meet records in three of them. Alexa Schipper was a part of all three record-setting performances. The 200-yard medley relay team of Kayla Strumberger, Schipper, Hannah Bashore and Kayla Kroells won in 2 minutes 11.32 seconds. In the breaststroke relay, the team of Libby Betcher, Kroells, Emma Anderson and Schipper won in 2:37.10. Shipper also set the meet record in the 50-yard breaststroke, touching the wall in 35.19 seconds. The TK/Hastings girls finished with 315 points. Calvin Christian was second with 225, followed by Mason 201, Otsego 175, Wayland 122, Loy Norrix 94, Creston 93, Ionia 87, Grand Rapids Union 72, West Catholic 67, Forest Hills Northern 29 and Ottawa Hills 8. It was no surprise the Trojans’ set a record in the medley relay, having the day’s top swimmer in the breaststroke, the backstroke and the butterfly. Strumberger won the 50yard backstroke in 33.17. Bashore took the 50-yard butterfly in 31.69. Kroells was the team’s top finisher in the 50-yard freestyle, coming in at 29.82 TK/Hastings also had the team of Katy Garber, Libby Betcher, Jennifer Tuokkola and Bashore win the 200-yard butterfly relay in 2:16.21. The TK/Hastings girls were second in the 200-yard backstroke relay, with the team of Bashore, Marissa Swanson, Lauren Ricketts and Strumberger finishing in 2:22.29, just behind the foursome from Otsego. Schipper had a runner-up finish in the 100yard individual medley too. Calvin Christian’s Tristyn Edsall won in 1:10.99, and Schipper came in at 1:14.09. TK/Hastings heads to Wayland this evening, then will host its own TK/Hastings Invitational Saturday. Gold golf ‘We Care’ football campaign shaken up a bit to benefit four charities for first time this season Nichols joins the North American Fastpitch Association Hall of Fame There was a bit of shuffling in the O-K Gold Conference Wednesday. Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity girls’ golf team closed the gap between itself and Grand Rapids Catholic Central a bit on its home course at Yankee Springs Golf Course, and Wayland jumped past Hastings for the first time. South Christian took the day’s championship with a score of 186. The top three teams were just five strokes apart. Wayland took second for the first time in the league this season, topping Hastings by the scores of 190 to 191. Catholic Central fired a 219 and TK a 222. South Christian had the day’s top two scores. Megan Wierenga shot a 42 and Arancha Baron added a 43. Hastings was led by 44s from Kylee Nemetz and Katie Brown and a 46 from Lindy Kloosterman. Ashley Potter added a 57. DeeJay Minor led the Trojans with a 53. Amber VanMeter added a 55, and Sandra Gerou and Camille Irvine helped out with a pair of 57s. Wayland’s Ali Martus matched Baron’s 43, and the Wildcats also got 47s from Makayla Holloway and Mandi Kinney. The league gets together again today at The Pines, for the jamboree hosted by South Christian. Hastings High School and its cheer teams are inviting all who attend the second annual neon-blackout “We Care” varsity football game Friday, Oct. 12, against Grand Rapids Catholic Central to purchase a special “We Care” T-shirt. Hastings students have been busy saving their spare change to use in voting for their favorite charity causes. In the running for this year’s campaign are Green Gables Haven, the Barry County Animal Shelter, Big Brothers Big Sisters and Magnum Care Nursing Home. Lansing Catholic uses long TD plays to beat Lakewood The Cougars hit the Vikings with big play after big play, on route to a 42-6 Capital Area Activities Conference White Division win Saturday in Lansing. Lansing Catholic’s varsity football team celebrated homecoming by getting two touchdowns each from Adam Babcock and Jack Swain. Quarterback Brock Rucinski connected on a 75-yard touchdown pass with Swain in the second quarter, after touchdown runs by Babcock of 43 and 53 yards in the opening quarter. The Cougars led 42-0 at the half. Austin Schertzing added an 18-yard touchdown run for the Cougars in the second quarter, Swain Maple Valley looking to fill DK boys pull coaching spots off two-goal Maple Valley High School is looking for a new varsity girls’ softball coach and a new seventh grade girls’ basketball coach. Any interested candidates should submit in writing no later than Oct. 9, 2012. Candidates can send their letters of interest to athletic director, Duska Brumm, Maple Valley Schools 11090 Nashville Hwy., Vermontville, MI 49096 or by email at . BOWLING SCORES Tuesday Trios SAM 12-6; CBS 11-5; Wash King 10-6; Look Ins. 9-7; Team Turkey 9-7; Coleman Ins. 7-5; Lu’s Team 6.5-4.5; Classic Trio 5-11; Blair Landscaping 4.5-11.5; Ghost Team 115. High Game - Tammy D. 235; Shirlee V. 198; Renee B. 198. High Series - Tammy D. 616; Shirlee V. 537; Renee B. 504. The Hastings Cheer teams will be selling T-shirts with the “We Care” logo giving half of the profit to the highest change getter. State Grounds Coffee House is a partner this year and will welcome those who stop in to purchase a beverage. T-shirt sales are underway at the high school. For those without a student attending the Hastings Area School System and who would like to be part of the “We Care” cause may purchase a shirt by emailing jagerd@hotmail.com for more information. scored on a 71-yard run, and Rucinski carried the ball in for another Cougar score. Paul Hager scored the only points for Lakewood, hauling in a pass from quarterback Alex Potter and taking it 75 yards for a touchdown midway through the third quarter. Zach Kilbourn led the Lakewood attack otherwise, rushing 16 times for 84 yards. Hager and Andrew Wisecup had six tackles each to lead the Viking defense. Hager and Kilbourn each picked off a Cougar pass. The 0-5 Vikings will host Corunna for homecoming this weekend. The Cavaliers are 1-4 after knocking off league newcomer Friday night 35-9. Ryan Nichols of Hastings was inducted into the North American Fastpitch Association Hall of Fame Aug. 9 at the annual World Series in Topeka, Kansas. Family and friends attended, including his mother Claire, father Terry and his wife Dana and their three children. Nichols has been selected to the All World Team six times, and was named the Most Valuable Pitcher of the World Series in 2011. NAFA Executive Director Benjie Hedgecock said Nichols is “well respected in the North American Fastpitch community for being one of the great pitchers in the last decade.” Nichols has also been honored as a member of the NAFA 20th Anniversary Team as one of only 36 players honored over NAFA’s 20 years. “One of Ryan's many assets that set him apart is his character and leadership qualities. While many of the top pitchers like Ryan leave their friends to go play with sponsors with more money or more talented players, Ryan has always turned down the offers and chosen to play with his family and friends his entire career,” Hedgecock said. “He is an outstanding ambassador for our sport and a testament to making the right choice putting family and friends first.” Ryan Nichols was inducted into the NAFA Hall of Fame at the organization’s World Series in August. victory in OT Delton Kellogg’s varsity boys’ soccer team took the lead three different times and the third time it finally stuck Monday. The Panthers knocked off visiting Galesburg-Augusta 4-2 in overtime in Kalamazoo Valley Association action. Lucas Hansen scored three goals for the Panthers, including one in each of the two overtimes sessions to secure his team’s victory. He also scored early in the second half to put his team up 2-1. Delton took the lead 16 minutes into the contest on a goal by Evan Curtice. Kyle Hoyt tied the game for the Rams with a goal two minutes later, and also quickly answered Hansen’s second half goal to tie the game at 2-2. Delton was slated to close out the conference regular season at Parchment Wednesday. The KVA Tournament begins Monday. The Panthers will also play a league tournament game Oct. 3, then host Comstock Oct. 4. Delton Kellogg’s Brandon Robbins sends the ball ahead as GalesburgAugusta’s Tyler Dunithan crashes into him in the midfield Monday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Delton Kellogg’s Lucas Hansen battles for possession of the ball with GalesburgAugusta’s Kyle Hoyt during Monday’s KVA contest in Delton. (Photo by Perry Hardin) �Page 18 — Thursday, September 27, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Classmates console TK after homecoming loss by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The student body was invited by Thornapple Kellogg varsity football coach Chad Ruger to come down and join the Trojan huddle if his team was able to score a homecoming night victory Friday. They came anyway. They joined the Trojan huddle and were there to offer hugs and words of encouragement to their classmates following a 7-3 loss to Byron Center in Bob White Stadium. Ruger pulled senior defensive back Cole Gahan aside himself. “Cole Gahan, he just played a good football game I thought, not only from the physical stand point, but he was out there leading,” said Ruger. “He kept saying come on offense don’t let your heads get down, because the defense was doing their job and they have been consistently throughout the year. The offense has sputtered.” The Trojans came out revved up for the homecoming match-up with the Bulldogs. They got 32-yard run by Aaron Ordway on their first play from scrimmage that moved them across the 50-yard-line into Bulldog territory, and got as far as the Byron Center 22yard line before penalties pushed them back into a long fourth down play. Ordway’s pass coming around the end was picked off by the Bulldogs’ Garrett Cross. That was the first of three interceptions, thrown by three different Trojans. Quarterbacks Grant Allison and Garrett Harris each threw one later in the contest as well. TK also lost a fumble near midfield late in the game, finishing with four turnovers. After that initial play, the entire first quarter was played in Bulldog territory. The Trojans weren’t able to put any points on the Thornapple Kellogg’s Connor Collier is hit by Byron Center’s Garrett Cross after hauling in a pass during the first quarter Friday in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) board though until they finished off a drive early in the second quarter with a 24-yard field goal by Ordway. The Bulldogs answered that score with an 80-yard drive of their own though, finishing it off with a 20-yard touchdown pass from Austin Snyder to Cross. Snyder was just 2-of4 passing for 25 yards in the contest. Cross led the Bulldog offense, rushing 18 times for 53 yards. The Bulldogs gained just 118 yards on their 38 rushes. The Trojans were better, but couldn’t sustain drives. “They made some adjustments and took some things away from us that we thought we were going to be able to come out and do,” Ruger said. “However, it should have never gotten to that. The first half, the first two series we went backwards as much as we went forwards on holding calls and jumping offsides. That’s been the way that this offense has gone. We’ve hurt ourselves, and the defense goes out and gives us more opportunities. “We keep telling the offense that they’re close and we’ve just got to execute. I feel like tonight we are the ones that hurt ourselves more.” The TK offense got 54 yards on 11 carries by CJ Bronkema, 52 yards on 12 carries from Dan Dykstra and another 43 yards on four carries by Ordway. As a team TK finished with 36 rushes for 177 yards. TK held out hope throughout the night. After the Trojans fumbled the ball away near midfield with 5:51 to play, defensive linemen Pete Westra and Ben Jazwinski made plays in the Bulldog backfield to help force another Byron Center punt. The Trojans got the ball back with 3:49 to play in the game, but went backwards themselves until Allison rolled left then scrambled through the middle on a fourth down play to give the Trojans new life just short of midfield. Allison completed a couple of passes to Stahl, including one to convert on another fourth down, but had a desperation heave up the right side intercepted by the Bulldogs’ Brad Cook with just over a minute to play. The Trojans are now 1-4 overall this season, and have a tough match-up ahead against Grand Rapids Catholic Central - a game that will be played at Grand Rapids Christian High School. The Cougars are 5-0 after a 416 win over Holland Christian Friday night. The Trojans’ Kameryn Kidder (40) drags down Byron Center running back Garrett Cross as his TK teammates close in during the first quarter of Friday’s homecoming contest in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Saxon spikers go for their 20th victory tonight The Saxons played three competitive matches Tuesday at the Allegan Quad, and came out of the evening with a 2-1 record. Hastings’ varsity volleyball team stared the night with a 25-13, 25-23 victory over the host Tigers. South Haven then topped the Saxon sophomore setter Erin Goggins puts the ball up during her team’s contest with Catholic Central at Hastings High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) The Saxons’ Rachel Quillen rises up for an attack during Thursday’s O-K Gold Conference contest with Grand Rapids Catholic Central. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Saxons 26-24, 25-19. The Saxons closed out the evening with a 25-19, 21-25, 15-10 win over Parchment. Taylor Warner had a big night for the Saxons at the service line, hitting 11 aces. Ally Owen had a team high ten kills in the three matches. Erin Goggins finished with 23 assists. Defensively, Hastings got four blocks from Grace Bosma and 15 digs from Nikki SAXON WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE Complete online schedule at: www.hassk12.org A A A H A A A H H H H H H H A A A A H H H A A A A A H A HASTINGS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS Contact Nancy 945-2742 or hastingsathleticboosters@gmail.com to sponsor the schedule 5:00 pm Boys Varsity Soccer Ottawa Hills HS A 5:00 pm Girls Fresh Volleyball Allegan HS A WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 3 3:45 pm Girls JV Golf` Thornapple-Kellogg HS H 4:15 pm Girls 7th B Volleyball Thornapple-Kellogg MS A 4:15 pm Girls 8th B Volleyball Thornapple-Kellogg MS A 4:30 pm Boys Varsity Cross Co OK Gold Jam A @ SC Sports Park 4:30 pm Girls Varsity Cross Co OK Gold Jam A @ SC Sports Park 5:30 pm Girls 8th A Volleyball Thornapple-Kellogg MS A 5:30 pm Girls 7th A Volleyball Thornapple-Kellogg MS A THURSDAY, OCTOBER 4 TBA Boys Varsity Tennis Zeeland West HS H 9:00 am Girls Varsity Golf GR Catholic Central A Conference @ The Meadows 4:00 pm Boys JV Soccer Thornapple-Kellogg HS H 4:15 pm Boys MS Cross Co Hastings HS H 4:15 pm Girls MS Cross Co Hastings HS H 4:30 pm Boys Fresh Football Thornapple-Kellogg HS H 5:00 pm Girls Fresh Volleyball Thornapple-Kellogg HS A 5:45 pm Boys Varsity Soccer Thornapple-Kellogg HS H 6:00 pm Girls JV Volleyball Thornapple-Kellogg HS A 6:30 pm Boys JV Football Thornapple-Kellogg HS H 6:30 pm Girls Varsity Swimming GR Catholic Central A 7:00 pm Girls Varsity Volleyball Thornapple-Kellogg HS A Times and dates subject to change Thanks to This Week’s Sponsor: Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, P.C. “Quality Care with Compassion” 840 Cook Rd. Hastings, MI 49058 Phone: 269-945-9520 Toll Free: 800-596-1005 Contact us on the web @ www.hoc-mi.com 77571182 THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 3:30 pm Girls JV Golf Kenowa Hills HS Kenowa Hills Invitational 3:45 pm Girls Varsity Golf S Christian HS OK Gold Jam @ Railside 4:00 pm Boys Varsity Tennis Postponed TK HS 4:00 pm Boys JV Soccer Wayland Union HS 4:15 pm Boys Middle Cross Co Lowell MS 4:15 pm Girls Middle Cross Co Lowell MS 4:30 pm Boys Fresh Football Ottawa Hills HS 5:00 pm Girls Fresh Volleyball Ottawa Hills HS 5:45 pm Boys Varsity Soccer Wayland Union HS 6:00 pm Girls Varsity Swimming Wayland Union HS 6:00 pm Girls JV Volleyball Ottawa Hills HS 6:30 pm Boys JV Football Cedar Springs HS 7:00 pm Girls Varsity Volleyball Ottawa Hills HS FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28 7:00 pm Boys Varsity Football Ottawa Hills HS Homecoming SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 9:00 am Boys Varsity Cross Co Carson City Carson City Invitational 9:00 am Boys Middle Cross Co Carson City 9:00 am Girls Varsity Cross Co Carson City 9:00 am Girls Middle Cross Co Carson City 9:30 am Boys JV Soccer Godwin Heights HS 10:00 am Girls Varsity Swimming Thornapple-Kellogg HS TK/Hastings Invitational 11:30 am Boys Varsity Soccer Godwin heights HS MONDAY, OCTOBER 1 3:45 pm Girls JV Golf Holland Christian HS 4:15 pm Girls 8th A Volleyball Duncan Lake MS 4:15 pm Girls 7th A Volleyball Duncan Lake MS 5:30 pm Girls 7th B Volleyball Duncan Lake MS 5:30 pm Girls 8th B Volleyball Duncan lake MS THURSDAY, OCTOBER 2 4:00 pm Boys Varsity Tennis Harper Creek HS 4:00 pm Boys JV only Soccer Grand Rapids Christian Redman. The Saxons are now 19-12-5 overall this season. They’ll go for win number 20 when they host Ottawa Hills for an O-K Gold Conference match tonight (Sept. 27). Hastings was 4-1-1 Saturday at the Kelloggsville Invitational, but saw their only loss of the day come in the first round of bracket play to a team they’d beaten in pool play. The Saxons knocked off Sparta early in the day, but then ended their day against the Spartans with a 25-17, 17-25, 15-12 loss. Hastings also knocked off Lee, Ottawa Hills and Kelloggsville in pool play, while splitting its two sets with Saugatuck. The Saxons did have a good day spreading the ball around offensively. Goggins had 61 assists. Rachel Quillen was the team leader in kills with 29. Corrie Osterink chipped in another 22 kills, while Grace Bosma and Sarah Taylor had 19 each. Owen had a team-high 21 aces, while Warner was right behind with 19. Redman led the defense from her libero position with 39 digs. Quillen also had seven blocks. In O-K Gold Conference action Thursday, the Saxons fell 3-0 at home to Grand Rapids Catholic Central. Hastings pushed the Cougars in the opening set, falling 25-23, then was downed 25-16, 25-15 in the final two sets. The Saxon team got six kills from Quillen, Hastings’ libero Nikki Redman sets herself to pass the ball during her team’s O-K Gold Conference contest with Grand Rapids Catholic Central Thursday evening. (Photo by Perry Hardin) four aces from Warner and 12 assists from Goggins. Julie Ingle led the Cougar attack with ten kills. Emily Braun had 14 assists for the winners, and Cassie Kovera had a team-high three aces. Times drop dramatically for Vikes at their second invite Daniel Sauers raced to a top ten finish for the Vikings at their own Lakewood Invitational Thursday afternoon. Sauers was ninth in the five-team boys’ race, hitting the finish line in 19:04.0 to lead the Lakewood varsity boys’ cross country team. Hart’s Zach Hintz was the fastest guy in a tight race for first place. He hit the finish line in 17:51.4, finishing just four tenths of a second ahead of Charlotte’s Bruce Baker (17:51.8). Baker’s teammate Miles Garn was just a second behind Hintz in 17:52.4. Hart took the day’s title, with its top five all in the top 11 to end up with just 27 points. Charlotte was second with 50, followed by DeWitt 65, Lakewood 82 and Pennfield NTS. Behind Sauers for the Vikings, Traviss Wilkerson was 15th in 19:31, Ben Wakely 20th in 20:33, Nolan Stoepker 21st in 20:34 and Dustin Urie 23rd in 20:55. Wilkerson, Wakely and Stoepker were all just over or just under a minute faster than they were when the Vikings hosted their first invitational of the season Aug. 22. The Lakewood girls all saw big improvements too. Freshman Kayla McWhorter, who led the Vikings Thursday with a 20th-place time of 24:11, was more than four minutes better than at the previous Lakewood Invitational, while teammate Lindsey Tooker was 23rd in 24:55 with a nearly five minute improvement. The Viking team also had Brooke Stahl finish 25th in 25:03, Mycah Ridder 28th in 25:19 and Anja Gimse 32nd in 25:42. Charlotte won the girls’ championship with 23 points. Hart was second with 63, followed by DeWitt 75, Pennfield 79 and Lakewood 120. Charlotte freshman Lindsey Carlson won the race by more than a minute, finishing in 18:59.1. Pennfield’s Audri Bornamann was second in 20:02.6. Lakewood will run again Tuesday when the Capital Area Activities Conference White Division gets together at Williamston. Rams top Delton for team’s first win since late in 2008 The Rams streak is over, but the Panthers continues. Galesburg-Augusta snapped its 33-game losing streak by scoring a 48-28 victory over the Delton Kellogg varsity football team in Galesburg Friday. The Rams hadn’t won since a week seven victory over Hackett Catholic Central in 2008. Those are the Rams’ only two wins since the Kalamazoo Valley Association expanded to ten teams. Delton Kellogg’s losing streak is now at ten games, as the Panthers drop to 0-5 on the season. Delton Kellogg will try and turn things around when it plays host to Kalamazoo Christian for homecoming this Friday night. Galesburg-Augusta broke the game open Friday with a 21-point second quarter that put it up 28-14 at the half. Kyle Mallwitz had a pair of touchdown runs for the Rams, including a one-yard plunge that opened the scoring in the first quarter and a three-yard run for the first points of the second quarter. Jordan Born and Richie Waite would each finish with two touchdown runs for the Rams. Taylor McNally tacked on the final score for their team late in the fourth quarter. Born was 7-of-10 passing for 111 yards, and rushed for 58 yards. Waite led the Rams on the ground, carrying 24 times for 184 yards. He scored on runs of one and 56 yards. Zach Leinaar answered Mallwitz’s opening score for Delton, with an eight-yard touchdown run in the first quarter, but Delton trailed 7-6 after the missed conversion. The rest of the Panther touchdowns came when they broke off big plays. Brady Mills scored on a 58-yard run in the second quarter. Cole Ritchie did the second half scoring for Delton, rushing 44-yards for the first points of the second half and then adding a 68-yard kick-off return for a touchdown in the fourth quarter. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 27, 2012 — Page 19 Trojan spikers can’t match Wayland’s consistency Thornapple Kellogg’s Paige Eyk tries to hit an attack past Wayland’s Haley Obetts during the first set Thursday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Trojans have looked like two different teams at times this fall. Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity girls’ volleyball team has reached the finals of a couple of tournaments, won one, and reached the semifinals at another. On those days, head coach Patty Pohl sees a talented group of girls having fun. She’s seen a team that’s more tentative and inconsistent though when it meets up with solid O-K Gold Conference competition for a head-to-head match-up. The Trojans fell to 1-2 in the conference with a 3-0 loss at Wayland Thursday. The Wildcats won by the scores of 25-16, 25-16, 25-21. “(Wayland) just was very consistent, very confident, very aggressive, every set they got they did something very smart with,” said coach Pohl. “They attacked very hard, even from the back row. We did not. We played tentative. We just did not pass well overall. I don’t know.” Allison Getty led the Wildcats with 13 kills and three aces on the night. Krissy Dill added another nine gills. Wildcat setter Sam Geivett finished with 25 assists as well as a team-high four aces. Haley Obetts had 10 blocks for the Wildcats, and Sam Merren had 11 digs. The Trojans had a 2-1 lead in the first set, and never led in the second. TK did rally from a 5-1 deficit in third set to go back and forth with the Wildcats. Wayland struggled to pass the ball more in the third set than the rest of the evening, and TK was led by a solid block along the front. “I think we picked it up a little bit,” coach Pohl said. “They seemed like they were playing with a little bit more excitement and enthusiasm, but then it dropped off at the end. We were with them pretty much that whole set.” TK got a couple of aces from Sydney LeMay to take an 18-17 lead in the third set, but her next serve crashed into the net and Geivett took over at the service line with the set tied 18-18. She started off a five-point run for her team with three aces, and the Wildcats cruised from there. LeMay led TK with eight kills in the contest, and also had three blocks. Nicole Schondelmayer added three kills. Setter Alaina Pohl had 20 assists for TK. Molly Lark had a team-high 11 digs, while Pohl added eight. The Trojans have another tough league contest at Grand Rapids Catholic Central this Thursday. Thornapple Kellogg’s Sydney LeMay (left) and Crystal Smith go up to try and block Wayland’s Haley Obetts during the third set of Thursday’s O-K Gold Conference contest at Wayland Union High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Pennfield stays unbeaten by topping Lions There will be a showdown between the Kalamazoo Valley Association’s only two unbeaten football teams Friday, when Pennfield takes on Schoolcraft. Both teams improved to 5-0 in the KVA with wins Friday. The Panthers dropped Maple Valley’s varsity football team to 2-3 on the season with a 41-6 win over the visiting Lions Friday night. Pennfield scored three touchdowns in the opening quarter, and led 41-0 before Dylan Kennedy scored the Lions’ lone points on a one-yard touchdown run with just under five minutes left in the ballgame. Jeremy Purcell ran for three touchdowns and Jonathon Clements rushed for two to lead the way for Pennfield. That duo traded TDs through the first three quarters. Purcell scored on a 23-yard run. Clements followed with an 88-yard TD run. Purcell tried to top that with a 75-yard touchdown run of his own. Clements then added a one-yard TD run late in the second quarter to end the first half touchdown scoring. Purcell tacked on the Panthers’ first points of the second half on a 41-yard touchdown run. Nick Burnett scored Pennfield’s final touchdown with a 14-yard run late in the third quarter. Purcell finished the night with six rushes for 156 yards. Clements rushed five times for 105 yards. Pennfield also got 95 yards on ten rushes from Dominic Arredondo. As a team, Pennfield rushed for 392 yards. The Lions had 167 yards on the ground, with Tyler Hickey leading the way with 12 carries for 52 yards. Garrett Miller added seven rushes for 46 yards and Kennedy rushed 11 times for another 32 yards. Branden Erwin paced the Lion defense with eight tackles. Matt Wher and Miller had seven each. Wher and Garret Mater each had a sack. The Pennfield defense got 11 tackles from Sam Duckham. The Lions will look to bounce back when they host Parchment Friday, on Parents’ Night. The Parchment Panthers are now 0-5 on the season after suffering a 23-8 loss to Olivet Friday. Lions pleased with play in loss to DK The Lions came to play Wednesday, against the four-time defending Kalamazoo Valley Association champions. Maple Valley’s varsity volleyball team won the first set in their KVA dual at Delton Kellogg High School Wednesday, 25-21, but then fell in the next three games 25-23, 25-13, 25-4. “Unfortunately, we had an injury midmatch and a few other curve balls thrown at us that halted the momentum – regardless of the final outcome, the passion, the ability to adapt to change and the fundamentals we have been working on all season shown through and I am more than proud of this group of girls,” said Maple Valley head coach Sarah Carpenter. Changes for the Lions came before the match as well as during it. The team implemented a 6x2 offense, moving their middle and outside hitters, and Carpenter said the girls responded well to the change. Alisha Vanderwoude stepped up to lead the Panthers, finishing with 21 kills and 14 aces. She also had three blocks. Rachel Parker had 28 assists for Delton, and Kanoe Chaffee had 14 digs. Maple Valley followed up its loss to Delton Kellogg with a split of its two matches at the Hawks show off hardware from a great baseball season The West Michigan Hawks Baseball Club, made up of players from across Barry County, gets together to celebrate a great 2012 season. The team took first place at the DeWitt Summer Classic, and won the BPA Bronze State Championship. They also played in three other championship games throughout the course of the year. Team members include (front from left) Terry Dull, Nate Hobert, Charlie Hayes, Jordin France, Matt Hewitt, Trevor Ryan (back) coach Hobert, coach Heath, Bryan Garrett, Gordy Hayward, Travin France, Colin Thomas, Drew Westworth, Dillon Heath, coach Garrett and coach Hayes. The team will be holding try-outs for its 2013 14-U travel team Sept. 30. Call 269-945-0571 for more details. Celebrate the S A XON SPIRIT with a PRE-GAME TAILGATE PARTY FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28TH Delton Kellogg’s Alisha Vanderwoude (left) and Hayleigh Sexton go up to try and block an attack by Maple Valley’s Hadley Joppie during their KVA contest at Delton Kellogg High School Wednesday evening. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Delton Kellogg sophomore Kristen Mohn sets the ball up during Wednesday’s KVA contest with Maple Valley. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Springport Tri Thursday. The Lions fell to Springport 25-20, 25-20, then topped Albion 25-21, 25-12. Carpenter said her team continued to show improvement. Olivia Ricketts led the Lion team with nine kills in the two matches, and Hadley Joppie had seven. Timara Burd had a team-high seven aces. Burd also had ten assists and Kandys Larsen had nine. Loisa Larino Mora led Maple Valley with 18 digs. Monday, the Lions were 0-2 at Potterville, falling 25-15, 25-18 to the host Vikings and 17-25, 25-15, 16-14 to Webberville. Joppie and Larino had seven kills each for the night. Joppie also had five aces, and Larsen had four. Delton Kellogg returned to action at the Portage Central Invitational Saturday, and went 2-2 in pool play before falling in the first round of the Gold Bracket. Livonia Ladywood ended the Panthers’ day with a 2522, 25-21 win. Gull Lake topped Portage Central for the day’s championship, with the Blue Devils winning the three-set match by the scores of 15-25, 25-20, 15-4. Lions and Saxons to hold Dig-Pink event during Oct. 8 match Maple Valley’s varsity volleyball team will be putting on a Dig-Pink fundraising event when it play host to Hastings Oct. 8. Both teams participate in the Hastings Relay for Life each year, and are now putting together this event as another way to help raise funds for the fight against cancer. Community members are invited to attend and help support the cause. The teams are also inviting all cancer survivors in the area to join in the festivities and be honored during their celebration service. To show community support for our football team and the spirit of being a Saxon, Hastings City Bank is sponsoring a tailgate party with free grilled hot dogs, chips and a drink to anyone before the game with Ottawa Hills HS, starting at 5:30 p.m. at the main entrance to Baum Stadium at Johnson Field The game will start at 7 p.m. SAXON SPIRIT ... let it show! 77571265 �Page 20 — Thursday, September 27, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Hastings hangs with South for more than a half Hastings was outshot 10-1 by South Christian Tuesday night, but the Saxons hung on for much of the night. The Sailor varsity boys’ soccer team pulled out a 2-0 victory over the visiting Saxons, scoring twice in the second half. Hastings head coach Ben Conklin said his team played a great game against the talented Sailors, especially on the defensive end. Goalkeeper Travis Matthews made eight saves on the ten shots against him. While the Saxons had just the one shot on goal, Conklin said his team was able to create a few other opportunities. Cody Kok and Nick VanderHotst scored the two goals for South Christian. The Saxons were also down two goals in the second half Saturday, taking on Grand Rapids Union in Hastings, but rallied to score two goals in the second half to earn the tie. Tanner Roderick scored with 15 minutes left in the game for Hastings, then Ian Beck tied the score with a goal with eight minutes left. Carson Williams assisted on each of the goals. Again, the Saxon defense was solid, stepping up its game to keep the team within striking distance at the end. Hastings fell 3-1 in a non-conference contest with Jackson Parma Western last Wednesday. The Panthers scored once midway through the first half, then tacked on two more goals in the middle of the second half. Conklin said his team was able to get shots throughout the first half, but was just unable to find the back of the net. Both teams fin- Hastings’ Andrew Cybulski (right) and a Union Redhawk try and get the ball down to the ground in the midfield during Saturday’s non-conference contest inside Baum Stadium at Johnson Field. (Photo by Perry Hardin) ished the game with seven shots on goal. Beck scored the lone goal for the Saxons TK girls 2-0; Hastings boys beat Trojans Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity girls’ cross country team got off to a 2-0 start to the O-K Gold Conference season by winning their duals with Grand Rapids Catholic Central and Hastings at Johnson Park Wednesday afternoon. TK had the second, third, fourth and fifth runners overall in the three-team race. Melissa Winchester led TK with her runner-up time of 20 minutes 14 seconds. The only girl ahead of her was Hastings’ Trista Straube, who finished in 19:43. TK topped the Saxons 20-40 and also scored a 17-40 win over Catholic Central. The Cougars won their dual with Hastings 23-35. The rest of the TK pack at the front included Casey Lawson in third in 20:25, Olivia Lamberg fourth in 20:47 and Janie Noah fifth in 21:45. The Trojan team also had Taylor Ward eighth in 21:56. The rest of the top seven for the Saxons included Rachel Rimer who was 18th in 22:13, Ariel Moore 13th in 22:43, Olivia Rose 16th in 23:02 and Haley Perkins 19th in 23:55. Catholic Central’s top runner was Regan Ora, who came in at 21:50. TK’s boys team had the fastest runner in its race, with David Walter finishing in 17:06, but the Trojans lost both of their duals. The Cougars beat the Trojans 22-38. Catholic Central won its dual with Hastings 21-38. Catholic Central was led by runner-up Matt Lennon, who was well behind Walter in 17:46. Hastings’ top runner was Jake Miller who came in fifth at 18:14. Behind Jake Miller for the Saxons, Ronnie Collins was sixth in 18:16, Chance Miller seventh in 18:44, Jacob Pratt 15th in 19:53 and Brandon Gray 17th in 20:15. TK’s only other boy in the top ten was Conor Leach, who was eighth overall in 18:48. The rest of the top five for TK included Daniel Vannette 12th in 19:09. Joe Gaikema 14th in 19:34 and Austin LaVire 16th in 20:02. DK cross teams both place second at Gilmore Museum The Delton Kellogg varsity boys’ and girls’ cross country teams both earned runner-up finishes at their Delton Kellogg Invitational Thursday at the Gilmore Car Museum. The Panther boys’ team finished second thanks in part to having two of the three fastest runners in its race. Hopkins’ John Wamhoff took first in 17 minutes and 15 seconds. The next two finishers were from Delton, with Jarryd Calhoun second in 17:26 and Zach Haas third in 18:07. Comstock took the day’s championship with 49 points. Delton Kellogg finished with 66, followed by Paw Paw 77, Hopkins 80, Fennville 93, Kelloggsville 121 and Galesburg-Augusta NTS. Hastings goalkeeper Travis Matthews races out to disrupt a shot by a Union Redhawk attacker Saturday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Delton Kellogg also had Alex Stevens 17th in 20:36, Jacob Morgan 18th in 20:49 and Brock Mueller fifth in 21:51. In the girls’ race Hopkins took the title with 26 points, followed by Delton Kellogg 52, Paw Paw 61, Galesburg-Augusta 98, Comstock NTS and Fennville NTS. Christi Boze led Delton with a third-place time of 20:47. Sarah Rendon was eighth in 21:51, Marceline Stevens 12th in 22:27, Megan Grimes 13th in 22:39 and Danielle Morse 16th in 23:29. Paw Paw’s Kayla DePierre won the race in 18:48, with Hopkins’ Rachael Weber a distant second in 19:32. late in the second half. Matthews had four saves in the contest. Vikings knock off Class A’s top team at Grandville Invite The Grandville Invitational Saturday (Sept. 15) was a tournament where the Lakewood varsity volleyball team needed to play every point of every match well to end up having a great day. It was a great day. In what Viking head coach Kellie Rowland called a “loud and exciting” match, her team defeated the top ranked team in the state in Class A, Mattawan, 19-25, 25-21, 15-12 for the championship. After a tough first set, in which the Vikings were learning how to deal with Mattawan’s Miss Volleyball finalist Allie Havers, a 6-4 middle, Mattawan was able to take the early lead. Mattawan continued to lead early in the second set, going up 13-6, before Jordan Kietzman stepped to the service line and helped the Vikings rattle off eight straight points for a 14-13 lead. The Vikings never lost that momentum, carrying it through to the end of the third set where Rowland said things “could not have been scripted any better.” “Taylor Shook made a huge killer block, Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, P.C. • Kenneth S. Merriman, M.D. • Eric S. Leep, D.O. • James L. Horton, Jr., D.O. • David J. Heeringa, D.O. • Maria Benit, PA-C • Christopher Born, PA-C Osteoporosis is common, serious, and costly — and it can lead to an increased risk of bone fractures, typically in the wrist, hip, and spine. Often called a silent disease because bone loss occurs without symptoms, people may not know that they have osteoporosis until their bones become so weak that a sudden bump or fall causes a fracture. Please join with Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, PC in continuing to honor women this month by helping to raise awareness of osteoporosis and the importance of prevention and early detection in combating this disease. Did You Know? • About 10 million Americans have osteoporosis, and about 34 million more are at risk. • One out of every 2 women and 1 in 4 men aged 50 and older will have an osteoporosis-related fracture in their lifetime. • Twenty-four percent of hip fracture patients age 50 and older die in the year following their fracture. From left to right: James L. Horton, Jr., D.O., Orthopedic Surgeon; David J. While men and women of all ages and ethnicities can develop osteoporosis, certain risk factors are linked to Heeringa, D.O., Orthopedic Surgeon; Eric S. Leep, D.O., Physical Medicine; Kenneth the development of osteoporosis and contribute to an individual’s likelihood of developing the disease. S. Merriman, M.D., Orthopedic Surgeon. • Gender – Women have a greater chance of developing osteoporosis due to less bone tissue and changes that occur due to menopause. • Ethnicity – Caucasian and Asian women are at highest risk. African American and Hispanic women have lower but significant risk. • Age – Older adults have greater risk of osteoporosis because bones become thinner and weaker with age. • Body size – Small, thin-boned women are at greater risk. • Diet – An inadequate intake of calcium and vitamin D over a lifetime makes an individual more prone to bone loss and contributes to the development of osteoporosis. • Lifestyle – An inactive lifestyle or extended bed rest tends to weaken bones. • Family history – Fracture risk may be due, in part, to heredity. • Smoking – Women who smoke have lower levels of estrogen compared with nonsmokers, often go through menopause earlier, and may also absorb less calcium from their diets. • Medication use – Long-term use of certain medications can lead to loss of bone density and fractures. • Alcohol –Those who drink heavily are more prone to bone loss and fracture, because of poor nutrition and increased risk of falling. People with osteoporosis may have several risk factors, while others who develop the disease may have no known risk factors at all. Osteoporosis is a preventable and treatable disease. Early diagnosis and treatment can reduce or prevent fractures. Medicare and other insurance carriers provide coverage of bone mass measurement for certain eligible beneficiaries. This important benefit can aid in the early detection of osteoporosis before fractures happen, provide a precursor to future fractures, and determine the rate of bone loss. For more information on Hastings Orthopedic Clinic or to learn about all of our services, please visit us online at www.hoc-mi.com, scan our QR code below with your mobile device, or contact us directly at (269) 945-9520. Providing Excellence. In the Art of Total Orthopedic Care Physical Medicine and Pain Management Accessible. Comprehensive. 07610338 Hastings returns to action this evening at home against Wayland. Brooke Wieland hit a tip to score, and Emily Kutch ended the match with the hardest driven kill I have witnessed her ever hitting,” said Rowland. Lakewood was a perfect 5-0 on the day. The Vikings topped host Grandville in the semifinals 25-13, 25-12, after besting Schoolcraft 25-20, 25-16 in the quarterfinals. In pool play, the Vikings knocked off Traverse City Central 25-13, 25-13, 25-20 and beat Portland 25-15, 25-14, 25-17. Kutch’s big kill at the end of the championship game was her 66th of the day. Olivia Davis added 39 kills for the Vikings, Brooke Wieland 32 and Taylor Shook added 11. Wieland also had 115 assists in the five matches. She and Beth Tingley each had 35 service points and six aces. Davis led the Vikings in each of those categories, with 58 points and eight aces. Davis led the Vikings Tingley had 86 digs with help by Wieland with 32, Davis with 23, Kutch 31. Kietzman chipped in 12 digs and Karly Morris helped with 10. Kutch and hook had nine blocks each, and Wieland had six, Vanessa Reynhout five and Charlie Smith three. Lakewood followed up that victory by improving to 2-0 in the Capital Area Activities Conference White Division with a 25-16, 25-11, 25-14 win over visiting Corunna Wednesday. Kutch and Davis had ten kills each. Davis and Tingley had nine service points each. Smith led the team in aces with three. Shook and Wieland had two blocks each, and Wieland had a team-high 29 assists. Tingley led the defensive effort with four digs. Corunna wins CAAC-White dual at LHS Lakewood’s varsity boys’ tennis team managed a couple of singles victories in its 62 Capital Area Activities Conference White Division loss to visiting Corunna Tuesday. The Vikings’ David Parks scored a 6-3, 62 win over Tyler Birchmeier in the second singles match. At third singles, Lakewood’s Parker Haskin beat Chance Patrick 6-0, 6-1. The Vikings weren’t far from getting the top three singles matches. Lakewood’s top player, Stephen Nisbet, beat Corunna’s Devon Limbaugh 6-4 in the opening set, but then wound up falling in a super tie-breaker. Limbaugh rallied to take the second set 6-1, then won the deciding tie-breaker 10-4. Lakewood also won some games at the top two doubles flights, the only doubles flights that were contested as the Vikings forfeited at number three and four. Zack Enz and Alex Everts pushed the Cavaliers’ Scott Constine and Zach LaMay deep into a tie-breaker in the first set, but fell 7-6(8) then were downed 6-0 in the second set. At second doubles, Lakewood’s Spencer Heyl and Evan Petersen fell 6-2, 6-1 to Adam Constine and Manny Montoya. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-10-04.pdf 38cd2414deaa174a229e420701065dbc PDF Text Text Trial begins in Woodland bar fight death Voters should carefully consider proposals Slaughter runs through Ottawa Hills See Story on Page 13 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 11 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 39 NEWS BRIEFS Girls Night Out returns tonight Up to 1,000 visitors are again expected in downtown Hastings Thursday, Oct. 4, beginning at 5 p.m., when the Hastings Downtown Business Team again hosts Girls Night Out. The event will feature specialty items of area merchants and restaurants and will showcase gift basket silent auctions and menu and drink specials throughout town. Participants will see new products and services offered by merchants in downtown Hastings. The October Girls Night Out event is themed “Join the Fight on Girls Night” in an effort to enhance awareness of breast cancer and to honor those who have been affected. All funds raised during the silent auction of the gift baskets at each participating merchant will be donated to the Barry-Eaton District Health Department and earmarked for a program to provide low- or no-cost mammograms to local women in need. T-shirts commemorating the evening will be available for sale at many of the participating merchant locations for $13 to $15. For more information, call the Barry County Chamber of Commerce 269-9452454. Life Chain planned Sunday Sunday, Oct. 7, National Life Chain Sunday will take place in Hastings and in hundreds of other cities and towns in the U.S and Canada as defenders of human life seek divine help to end legal abortions. Life Chain is a peaceful and prayerful public witness of pro-life Americans standing in the gap for one hour, said local participant Jody May. The local event will be at the corner of State Street and Broadway in Hastings starting at 2:15 p.m. For more information, call Marty Preston, 269-948-8834. Voter registration deadline nears Michigan residents have until Tuesday, Oct. 9, to register to vote in the Nov. 6 general election. To register, applicants must be at least 18 years old by election day and be U.S. citizens. Applicants must also be residents of Michigan and of the city or township in which they wish to register. Voters may register by mail, at their county, city or township clerk’s office, or by visiting any Secretary of State office. A mail-in form is available at www.Michigan.gov/elections. To check their registration status, residents may visit the Michigan Voter Information Center at www.Michigan.gov/vote. On the website, residents can view a sample ballot, find their polling location, learn about absentee voting, get information on Michigan’s voter ID laws and view contact information for their local clerk. The polls will be open Nov. 6 from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Dig-Pink Night is Monday at Maple Valley Maple Valley’s varsity volleyball team will be putting on a Dig-Pink fundraising See NEWS BRIEFS, page 14 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 Thursday, October 4, 2012 PRICE 75¢ County sheriff’s ties to national movement questioned by Doug VanderLaan Editor Comments made by Commissioner Jeff VanNortwick at Tuesday’s Barry County Board of Commissioners meeting have raised interest in the professional associations of Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf. “Is there any reason that taxpayers in this county should become alarmed at all with the aligning of our sheriff with constitutional parties that vow to protect and to hold firearms and to do their own governmental interest similar to what we’re seeing from [Sheriff] Mike Raines over at Eaton County?” asked VanNortwick of Barry County Undersheriff Bob Baker. Though the question lacked specifics for many, an Internet search of the Raines name leads to a connection to a nationwide organization that purports county sheriffs to be what one website positions as “the last line of defense against an overreaching federal government.” At least 160 sheriffs are believed to be part of the Constitutional Sheriffs and Peace Officers Association, which held national conferences in Las Vegas in January and September of this year. Raines and Leaf are said to be the only two sheriffs from Michigan who attended. Leaf attended both conferences, Raines the first. A constitutional sheriff, according to a Sept. 15 article in the Lansing State Journal, believes that a county sheriff has the power to “restore the U.S. Constitution as the supreme law of the land,” even to the point, as Raines has stated, of turning away a federal agent from the county if the agency was, in Raines’ words, “overstepping [its] bounds.” Leaf, who pointed out that sheriffs in all 83 Michigan counties are constitutionally elected, as opposed to being appointed, told the State Journal prior to the September conference that he would attend the association’s second annual convention in Las Vegas to continue learning about what a sheriff’s duty and authority is. “If you don’t use the authority that is granted to you,” Leaf told the State Journal, “you are, in a sense, taking it away from the public.” The Constitutional Sheriffs and Peace Association’s founder, Richard Mack, is a former Arizona county sheriff who now writes and travels the country spreading his belief that an out-of-control federal government has left the country on the brink of destruction. Mack has stated that he believes a sheriff’s authority is so great that he or she does not have to obey the president and that state sovereignty — to be ensured through the Second Amendment’s right to bear arms — is the movement’s main focus. In a telephone interview Wednesday afternoon, Leaf agreed that Mack may be too strong in his representation of a very real concern. “What they are teaching is not advocating violence,” Leaf clarified. “They are teaching us about the Bill of Rights, and it’s coming from constitutional scholars. There’s concern about the National Defense Authorization Act because there are some things in there that are clearly unconstitutional, such as giving the president the authority to order the military to go into your home without a warrant, to arrest you without cause, to take you into custody, to house you in an offshore prison for an undetermined amount of time with no right to a phone call, a speedy trial, or the chance to post bond. “The federal government doesn’t have to follow the normal procedures like I’d have to follow. We have a lot of people — even in our own community — who are scared about that.” That fear and how some, including Raines, are responding could have been the reference to VanNortwick’s remarks Tuesday, especially given Raines’ formation in Eaton County See MOVEMENT, page 14 Financial targets part of preliminary budget approval by Doug VanderLaan Editor Barry County Commissioners provided preliminary approval of a 2013 budget at their committee of the whole meeting Tuesday but, in the process, took one last swipe at a funding appeal from the sheriff’s department with a denial that appeared to carry some heavy political undertones. As submitted by County Administrator Michael Brown, the $14 million proposed budget for 2013 was approved for formal recommendation to the Oct. 23 board of commissioners meeting on an 8-0 vote, pending input from a public hearing to be held as part of the Oct. 23 meeting. Commissioners were complimentary of Brown and his staff for preparation of the budget and for the vision that has led the county through perhaps its toughest fiscal challenge in the past three years. They were not as gratuitous, however, to Barry County Undersheriff Bob Baker. Baker’s appearance was at the request of the board which, at its meeting Sept. 18, rejected an appeal that $30,800 be restored to the sheriff’s department budget for 2013 and insisted a revised appeal. Baker returned Tuesday with a plan to close the request level to $14,000 by cutting employee training, conserving fuel and oil, and by anticipating savings from a change of patrol car computers that require less energy from vehicle batteries. Also on Baker’s proposed cutback list were possible savings in ammunition, postage, dry cleaning and office supplies. “You said there’s other financial ways that you are going to back up the budget request from a couple of weeks ago,” began Commissioner Jeff VanNortwick in a direct line of questioning of Baker. “How do you do that with ammunition?” After Baker’s response that the department cannot “short” ammunition and would likely Hastings names Beck and Garber its king and queen Ian Beck and Katy Garber were named the 2012 Hastings High School Homecoming King and Queen during the ceremony at half-time of the varsity football game against Ottawa Hills inside Baum Stadium at Johnson Field. The Saxons knocked off the Bengals in the football game 36-12. (Photo by Dan Goggins) “There’s $2.6 million going to the sheriff’s department. It seems they should be able to tighten it down to find the $14,000.” Commissioner Jeff VanNortwick have to find funds elsewhere to maintain ammunition supply levels, VanNortwick probed deeper. “I’ve got a question for you,” said VanNortwick. “How does our law enforcement department monitor, inventory and audit their ammunition issues? “Is there any reason that taxpayers in this county should become alarmed at all with the aligning of our sheriff with constitutional parties that vow to protect and to hold firearms and to do their own governmental interests similar to what we’re seeing from [Sheriff] Mike Raines over at Eaton County? (see story above) “Is there any reason that people should be alarmed about the hoarding of ammunition and firearms by our sheriff?” Baker was adamant in his response. “If the question is ‘Is the Barry County Sheriff’s Office hoarding ammunition?’ the answer is ‘Absolutely, not.’ If you or any commissioner would like to come down, we’ll open up the armory and you can see what we have for ammunition. Then we can show you the breakdown of the number of officers we have, the course of fire, the average number of rounds fired at each [target] See BUDGET, page 14 Young and Boze crowned Delton’s King and Queen Zach Young and Christi Boze were named Delton Kellogg High School’s 2012 Homecoming King and Queen during half-time of the Panther varsity football team’s Kalamazoo Valley Association contest against Kalamazoo Christian Friday night in Delton. The Comets scored a 42-0 win over the Panthers. (Photo by Linda Boyce) �Page 2 — Thursday, October 4, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Hastings wraps up homecoming week Friday evening Hastings High School’s homecoming week was capped with a Saxon victory over the Ottawa Hills Bengals. Leading up to the big event, high school stu- dents participated in variety of school and class spirit-building events, including selecting 10 seniors to serve as members of the homecoming court, hall decorating competi- tions, games at a pep assembly, dress-up days, float building and the annual junior/senior girls powder puff football game. The 10 members of the homecoming court were Ian Beck, Taylor Carter, Alex Cherry, Maxwell Clark, Katy Garber, Kelsi Harden, Ben Kolanowski, Corrie Osterink, Tom Peurach and Olivia Rose. During the halftime ceremony, Ian beck and Katy Garber were crowned homecoming king and queen by 2011 queen, Jenny Feldpausch, and Bob Leedy, standing in for his son and 2011 homecoming king, Bobby Leedy, who is currently serving in the military. Contest winners for homecoming week were: Hallway decorating, freshmen; powder puff, seniors; spirit days, seniors; assembly games overall winner, seniors; float winner, freshmen. In the end, the senior class was named the overall homecoming week winner. Homecoming court members Corrie Osterink and Ben Kolanowski are escorted in the parade. Homecoming court members Olivia Rose and Tom Peurach wave to parade-goers. Homecoming court members Kelsi Harden and Ian Beck laugh and wave as their ride takes a corner. Homecoming court members Katy Garber and Alex Cherry greet parade-watchers. Homecoming court members Taylor Carter and Maxwell Clark wave. 2011 homecoming queen Jenny Feldpausch rides in the homecoming parade. The Hastings High School Marching Band leads the school’s homecoming parade. Members of the Hastings High School Chest Painting Club show their spirit. Participants of the Hastings Youth Athletic Association football program make an appearance in the parade. 77571347 The senior float features a Spider-man theme. Check-out our website for a complete list of jobs and qualifications. The juniors’ Batman-themed homecoming parade float entry also includes a Batmobile. The freshman class float takes first place with a Superman theme. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 4, 2012 — Page 3 Delton homecoming focuses on popular books for theme Delton Kellogg freshman court members are Jacob Reed and Blanca Perez. Delton Kellogg sophomore court members are Cole Mabie and Kassie Hackler. The Delton Kellogg Panthers were unable to stop a strong and Kalamazoo Christian squad and lost 42-0 in their 2012 homecoming game. Homecoming week began with float building Monday. The student council chose popular literature for the theme this year, and class floats were modeled after Harry Potter, The Hunger Games, The Chronicles of Narnia and Percy Jackson Lightning Thief. Tuesday saw the 50th annual powder puff football game with senior girls beating juniors 20-7. The powder puff game raised $900 for the Food Bank of South Central Michigan. Dress-up days during the week included camouflage, class colors, fashion disasters, float theme and school spirit. The homecoming court included seniors Caleb Alman, Molly Egelkraut, Zach Haas, Ashley Hicks, Zach Meyers, Brookelynn Delton Kellogg junior court members are Jeff Minehart and Kyly Janowski. O’Meara, Zach Young and Christi Boze. Boze and Young were crowned queen and king, respectively. Junior court representatives were Jeff Minehart and Kyly Janowski. Sophomores were Cole Mabie and Kassie Hackler. The freshman court members were Jacob Reed and Blanca Perez. Delton Kellogg Panther football players leisurely participate in the parade. The Delton Kellogg Homecoming Queen’s Court includes (from left) Ashley Hicks, Brookelynn O’Meara, Christi Boze and Molly Egelkraut. Local enrollment down slightly, less than expected Preliminary figures of the state’s count day at local schools show some decreases in population, but those that were down were still higher than anticipated by school officials. At 2,824.19 students enrollment in Hastings Area Schools is down 39.1 from spring 2012 count and 41.4 from the 2011 fall count, but 12 students higher than 2,812 the projected by the district and the state for the 2012-13 school year. Hastings Area Schools Superintendent Todd Geerlings said only one elementary and the high school saw an increase in enrollment— Northeastern Elementary saw an increase of five students, and high school enrollment increased by 15 students. The greatest enrollment increase at the high school, he said, was in 12th grade, which he attributed in part to enrollment in the alternative education program. Of the remaining district, schools saw the decrease in student enrollment. Hastings Middle School was down 17 students from a year ago; Star Elementary was down two; Southeastern Elementary was down 17, and Central Elementary was down 26 students. Geerlings said it is currently unknown why the student count at Central Elementary showed the biggest decrease from last year’s count. According to the preliminary count, Delton Kellogg Schools has 1,491 students, which is 14 more students a year ago. Enrollment at the high school is up in all grades, said Superintendent Paul Blacken. “We budgeted to be down 25 students,” said Blacken. “So, we are encouraged that our audited count this fall will be above last fall’s count.” Maple Valley Schools Superintendent Ronna Steel reported a preliminary blended count of 1,219, down 23 from last year. That number, however, is up 11 from projected losses of 34. Official counts for last fall were 1,237 and 1,241 in February. A first grade section has been added due to an influx of students at that level, said Steel. The first grade is at 96. The lowest count of 70 is in the third grade section. Steel said there seems to be a population bubble that fluctuates. Thornapple Kellogg officials say they anticipated little or no growth in student enrollments for the year, and that’s just what they saw. The district is reporting two fewer students than a year ago. Unofficially Wednesday’s student count for all TK schools is 3,088, down from 3,090 a year ago. “We’re okay. We anticipated a flat enrollment for this year,” said Superintendent Tom Enslen. “Last fall, we had quite a surprise with 90 additional students. We’re pleased with where we’re at and with our overall enrollment.” Enslen said the kindergarten class is smaller and that it may be because of the change to all-day, every-day kindergarten. “Some parents may have opted to keep their children home instead,” he said. Count day is used to determine 90 percent of per-pupil state funding. Winter count day, conducted in February, makes up the other 10 percent. Fraud Prevention Seminar The Delton Kellogg marching band brings waves of music to the homecoming parade. Author of ‘Locavesting’ to speak at economic summit The Barry County Economic Development Alliance will host the 10th annual economic development summit and business showcase Thursday, Nov. 1, at the Barry Expo Center. The keynote presentation will be provided by Amy Cortese, author of Locavesting: the Revolution in Local Investing and How to Profit From It. “Locavesting is a term I coined to describe the local investing movement taking root across the country,” says Cortese. “Just as locavores eat a diet sourced close to home, locavestors try to invest that way. The idea is to earn profits while supporting your local community. “Locavesting is about investing in Main Street, rather than the casino known as Wall Street, and creating a more inclusive and just form of capitalism.” Cortese is a journalist who has spent her Board of education expels middle, high school students After closed disciplinary hearings Tuesday evening, the Hastings Board of Education voted unanimously to expel a Hastings Middle School student and a Hastings High School student, one for bringing a weapon to school and the other for possessing and dispensing a controlled substance school property. The 15-year old high school student was expelled beginning Wednesday, Oct. 3, for violating the student code of conduct by distributing the prescription drug Adderall Sept. 20. The student can request reinstatement no earlier than Aug. 1, 2013. The motion to expel the student was approved unanimously, with trustee Jon Hart absent. A 13-year-old middle school student was expelled beginning Oct. 3, for violating the student code of conduct by being in possession of a pocket knife with a blade less than three inches in length, which the student opened and pointed at another student while at the middle school Sept. 20. The student may request reinstatement no earlier than Jan. 1, 2013. The motion to expel the student was approved unanimously, with trustee Gene Haas absent. career writing about business, finance, environmental issues and food, giving her a unique perspective on how these different realms are intricately linked. A former editor at BusinessWeek, her work has also appeared in the New York Times, the New York Times Magazine and the American. For more information, go to www.locavesting.com. The summit will also feature senior regional analyst George Erickcek of the W.E. Upjohn Institute who will offer an in-depth look at past, current and future trends impacting Barry County’s local economy. Erickcek and the staff at the institute provide researchbased data that helps local and regional economic partners formulate strategies that are relevant to the needs of local businesses. The business expo will showcase local businesses and manufacturers, creating a venue for dialogue and interaction between community and business leaders. The expo will be open from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and is free of charge. A $10 registration fee is required to attend the luncheon and summit presentations can be paid online or at the door. The summit luncheon will begin at noon, with presenters and awards beginning by 12:45 p.m. Attendees are asked to register online, www.mibarrysummit.eventbrite.com. Questions regarding the event may be directed to Carol Vogt, 269-945-2454. Thursday, October 11, 2012 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. Hastings City Bank is presenting a seminar that will help attendees understand: • How to Identify Fraud • Types of Fraud Schemes • Tips for Fraud Prevention There will be an opportunity for questions and answers. This seminar will take place in the community room of the Hastings branch, 150 West Court St. Attendance is free to the community. Please reserve a seat by calling 269-948-5579. Refreshments will be served. 77571414 �Page 4 — Thursday, October 4, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Voters should carefully consider proposals in November election Storm clouds billow and stretch as they make their way across the sky south of Hastings, silhouetting trees. The weather and harvest dust have been working in concert lately to provide viewers with interesting cloud formations and sunsets. (Photo by Sandra Ponsetto) We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Do you know? Marching orders When Michigan voters sit down to review their absentee ballots or as they head to the polls Nov. 6, they will find six ballot proposals sent to them because legislators they are unwilling to make decisions. Due to their inability to deal with these legislative issues, elected officials want voters to read, to understand and to determine what’s the best direction for Michigan. The Constitution of the State of Michigan is the governing document for our state. It describes the structure and function of the state’s government. It was never meant to deal with rules and regulations — that’s the job of the legislature. The Constitution sets the principles under which we operate government. So far, Michigan has adopted four constitutions. The first was went into effect in 1835, two years before Michigan became a state. It’s been nearly 50 years since we changed our state’s constitution. History shows that changes in our state’s constitution haven’t come easily, yet, this year, legislators expect voters to look at five of these six proposals that would change the document we’ve protected for more than 177 years. Debating the facts and understanding the issues should be left up to the experts. Legislators are charged with the responsibility to investigate, to debate and to determine what makes sense to the people of the state. If voters expect to use television commercials to determine how to vote on the issues, we’re all in trouble because the commercials are placed and paid for by lobbying groups trying to force their positions on to voters. One ad, especially, sums it up. You’ve probably seen the husband and wife sitting at the kitchen table filling out their absentee ballots and questioning why we the voters have been asked to add rules and regulations to our state’s constitution. These are not constitutional issues; they are legislative issues that should have been debated in the state’s legislature. So, what happening here? State legislative leaders are just passing the buck by sending this legislative issue back to the voters. To understand the proposals, it will require that voters take the time to understand each proposal and the possible implications they would have on Michigan’s future. Here’s a quick look at the proposals: Proposal 1: Should Michigan keep Public Act 4, Michigan’s emergency manager law, in place? Public Act 4 was passed by the legislature to take away the power of local units of government and schools boards who failed to keep their schools or municipalities out of financial trouble and places an emergency manager, with full authority, in charge. Emergency managers are sent in as a last resort to help these local groups find a way out of their financial dilemma. So, should we support the governor by giving him the authority to send in the troops to solve a financial crisis? A ‘no’ vote on Proposal 1 would only postpone the inevitable by denying emergency managers and making it harder to deal with the serious problem. Proposal 2: Should collective bargaining rights to be enshrined in the Constitution? In most cases, voters don’t understand the long-term consequences of a constitutional amendment for collective bargaining. Proposal 2 would make Michigan much less competitive in a global marketplace. There are already laws on the books that protect collective bargaining so to make it part of the constitution is not in Michigan’s best interest. Plus, Michigan’s Attorney General Bill Schuette said that more than 170 state laws would be impacted by the passage of the bill. Proposal 3: Should the Michigan constitution require the state to get at least 25 percent of its energy from alternative sources by 2025? This proposal requires Michigan to produce 25 percent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2025, regardless of cost. If it passes, Michigan would become the first state in the nation to amend its constitution to include renewable standards. Under current legislation, Michigan is already required to have 10 percent from renewable sources by 2015 just three years away. Most people understand the importance of promoting renewable energy sources, but to make it a constitutional amendment would put Michigan at a competitive disadvantage that could impact our growth for generations. Proposal 4: Should the constitutional establish the Michigan Quality Home Council, providing certain information to consumers, require training of providers while providing limited collective-bargaining rights? Passage of Proposal 4 would allow public service unions to siphon off millions from home health care workers it doesn’t represent. Plus, the state legislature has already put an end to the practice – any changes should be dealt with legislatively. Proposal 5: Should the state Constitution require a two-thirds legislative supermajority to increase taxes in the state? The legislature is already deadlocked on many issues. This would just add to party bickering by establishing a constitutional requirement that could give the minority rule in the legislature. We elect state legislators to work for us in Lansing. If they fail to solve the issues important to voters, then we should turn them out of office, not stack the deck, making almost impossible to pass any legislation. Proposal 6: Should the state Constitution require the people of Michigan approve construction of a new bridge from the U.S. to Canada? A ‘yes’ vote would turn away millions of jobs and increased trade between the U.S. and Canada. Michigan and Canada have always been strong trading partners. The Snyder administration has done a good job in forging a reasonable agreement for a new bridge paid by Canada that would bring more business to Michigan. As you look down the list of proposals, they should appear to you as policy decisions that weren’t meant to be changed by constitutional amendments. Voters should respond by sending a strong message to state legislators who’ve usurped their legislative responsibility. It’s time to stand up and be counted, for the good of the state and our future. If these proposals pass — other than Proposal 1 which maintains a current law — it could tie the hands of the legislative process for years. Passage of these proposals would put Michigan in a vulnerable position to compete in what’s become a global marketplace. Fred Jacobs, vice president, J-Ad Graphics Do you recognize the young men in this photo? The man in the suit coat is Art Steward, then Hastings High School band dirctor. Do you know the others? Do you know why this photo was taken? What can you tell us about this photo? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event to reunite the photos with their original clippings or identify photos that may never have been used. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@j-adgraphics.com; or call 269-945-9554. Last week’s photo of a plaque being awarded and a woman holding a bouquet drew no response. The Hastings Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • President Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Frederic Jacobs Vice President Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Bonnie Mattson Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 4, 2012 — Page 5 VanNortwick announces write-in Offshore tax avoidance gimmicks must end bid to retain county board seat by Doug VanderLaan Editor The reasons to mount an uphill write-in campaign for county commissioner in the Nov. 6 general election far outweigh the seemingly impossible odds of being successful, says Jeff VanNortwick, who filed an election petition Tuesday and announced his intention to do just that . VanNortwick, the current District 7 commissioner who was defeated by challenger Jim Dull by less than 100 votes in the Aug. 7 Republican primary, lists the narrow margin of that defeat, lack of transparency on the part of Dull, improper endorsement of and campaigning for Dull by Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf, and the work that still needs to be done as the major reasons he’s still in the race. “This is not a do-over,” VanNortwick insists. “Look at the gap in that August primary vote — it was only 1.5 percent and only 17 percent of the 6,300 registered in District 7 voted — is that how we want our government run?” VanNortwick believes that next month’s typical 50 percent-plus turnout for the general presidential election will produce a decision more aligned with the interests of his constituents, people who, he says, have felt abandoned to the non-transparent perspective that Dull has evidenced. “My way of thinking is that a candidate would be active in the political system, the day-to-day operations of government,” maintains VanNortwick. “This guy has been absent. He has not shown up to board of commission meetings, to committee of the Whole Meetings, to township meetings. “Yet, he can take $600 from the county to attend a Michigan Association of Counties conference at Shanty Creek.” Van Nortwick was referring to a countypaid conference to which assumed incoming commissioners were invited and about which he objected at the Sept. 25 county board meeting. Only Dull and commissioner-elect Jon Smelker attended. Commission candidate Joyce Snow, who will face Democrat Barb Cichy Nov. 6, clarified Tuesday that she never was invited. “He’s running on the back of the sheriff,” says VanNortwick, in perhaps his most serious charge against Dull. “The sheriff, in my mind, should be non-partisan but he campaigned for Jim Dull, for Mark Englerth, for Vivian Conner and for Joyce Snow.” The latter two were county board candidates. Englerth was elected Yankee Springs supervisor. “Did I come out and say they could use my Jeff VanNortwick name?” countered Leaf by phone Wednesday. “Yes, I did.” As for charges by VanNortwick of door-todoor campaigning with the candidates, Leaf readily conceded that he did because he, too, was running for office.” “I have been trying to have lunch with Jeff for some time because he also represents the area I live in,” added Leaf. “I should have the right to offer my opinion, but it would never happen. I made one call to Jim Dull, and he was on my doorstep. Yes, I’m for Jim Dull.” VanNortwick, who publicly inferred at Tuesday’s commission meeting that Leaf was involved politically with the controversial Constitutional Sheriffs and Peace Officers Association (see related articles), makes no secret of his concern for Leaf’s involvement in the local political process and the support he’s lining up with the candidates for whom he campaigned. “It’s an ultra-conservative right wing organization,” charges VanNortwick. The sheriff controls $4.3 million of the county’s $14 million budget, and he wants more. Is that the kind of leadership we want in our county commission? “I don’t believe it’s going to be a hardship for people to understand what’s at stake here. This [the general election] is going to be an opportunity for the silent majority to speak, and it’s going to say that it doesn’t want to go there.” Dull did not return a requested call for comment by Wednesday’s Banner publication deadline. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. What do you think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. Last week’s question: Barry County commissioners recently amended a zoning ordinance to allow nursing homes in most zoning designations after receiving an application for a facility in rural Johnstown Township. Should nursing homes be allowed to located anywhere in the county? 61% 39% Yes No For this week: A new Department of Human Services policy that withholds welfare benefits from families with children who have more than 10 unexcused school absences began Monday. Do you think this will this be an effective deterrent to the lack of education, one of the causes of poverty? q q Yes No IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV Group works in two counties To the editor: Regarding the ‘Rules of the parks and rec game debated by county board’ articles in the Sept. 6 Banner and the Sept. 8 Maple Valley News, this seems to have become a contentious topic. My intent was to bring hope and passion, not division. I did not ask for nor campaign for the state and local awards for environmentalism and parks that I have received. Each award was a surprise. These awards only indicate that I have a passion toward the great outdoors that seems remarkable to some and valued by others. It is that passion and the skills that I can bring to the table in support of that passion is all that I am offering. However, I apparently have failed to ensure that the Maple Valley Greenways Committee’s scope has been understood. I am sorry if this is redundant information to some of you. First, MVGC is not isolated to Eaton County, as some seem to perceive. The rail and river trails that we support in our mission statement cross over Barry and Eaton counties almost equally. Our extensive volunteer investments in time, money and energy are played out in both counties. Our shared school has provided extraordinary support and volunteerism and also has MVGC members. We consider the area our neighborhood. Maple Valley is a geographical entity that just happens to cross multiple local units. That is one of the drawbacks of having a large neighborhood. It is not so dramatic as to say that “united we stand and divided we fall,” but it is a matter of working together in hopes of greater results for all. The group’s membership reveals almost as many Barry County residents as Eaton. It is true that I live in Eaton County, but the stake- holder position was requested by MVGC. I am the current chosen representative for MVGC. The membership chose me, since I am the only one willing to attend both Eaton and Barry county parks and recreation meetings — at considerable time and expense to myself, on top of the time money spent actually working on and in both counties parks, I might add. As stated previously, MVGC operates under the umbrella of the Thornapple Trail Association, which meets in Middleville not Eaton County. Again, I am a volunteer in our neighborhood. I would ask that all who have a provincial attitude please reconsider and acknowledge that Maple Valley Greenways is a multi-jurisdictional entity. I certainly don’t want to walk away from this thinking that it is not MVGC that is being objected to but rather Blair Miller exclusively. If that is the case, I could be persuaded to stop helping Barry County if the opportunity presents itself in the future. The point has always been about “us” and not “me” and as such, it will take a very strong case to make me stop working for the good of Barry County residents. Personally, I have gotten so much more done after I stopped trying to please every single opponent in the hope of getting something done some day. I even work with people I don’t like in the least. So long as we work together in support of a shared goal and positive gains are the result, then that person is my brother I will stand beside him. I even hope to have some fun doing it. Blair J. Miller, Vermontville The Thornapple Players will present SHAKESPEARE’S COMEDY A Midsummer Night’s Dream on October 10 is dress rehearsal but open to the public-all seats are $5 and October 11, 12, 13 at 7:00 pm and October 14 at 2:00 pm at the Barry Community Enrichment Center Located at 231 South Broadway (formerly Leason Sharpe Hall) in Hastings Tickets available at the door or from Progressive Graphics Tickets are $8 for adults and $6 for senior citizens (62 and over) and students. Dr Carrie Wilgus is pleased to announce the addition of a new Mid-Level Provider to her team! Please welcome to our team: Christi Bush PA-C. Christi is a board certified physician assistant who received her degree from Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Christi grew up in Bay City Michigan. After high school, Christi attended Alma College where she received her degree in Psychology. For seven years, Christi worked as a social worker serving the community of Tuscola County in Michigan. She later began practicing in the Bay City area as a physician assistant, where she has spent the past year and a half caring for children at a local medical office specializing in pediatrics. Christi now calls Hastings home and is looking forward to becoming a part of our small community. As a board certified physician assistant, Christi will provide services in the office and hospital setting. She is qualified to treat children from birth to adolescence, providing medical services from: Preventative Services, Well Exams, Behavior and Attention Problems, to management of Chronic Illnesses. Christi is now accepting appointments for new and established patients Monday-Thursday 9am - 5pm and Fridays 1pm - 5pm. Dr Carrie Wilgus and Christi Bush, PA-C Now Accepting NEW PATIENTS! Carl Levin, Senior U.S. senator from Michigan Looking forward to caring for you in our new location starting November 1, 2012 See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS Phone: 269-948-7337 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits www.southside4kids.com 07610463 State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov To the editor: America stands on the edge of a fiscal cliff, facing drastic budget cuts and painful tax increases on the middle class unless we can agree on a comprehensive, balanced deficitreduction plan. This challenge lends new urgency to a topic I have long pursued as chairman of the Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations: cutting loopholes and gimmicks to avoid paying taxes. Tax loopholes are one significant cause of the budget deficit, and they add to the tax burden that ordinary Americans bear. Recently, my subcommittee held a hearing exposing how multinational corporations have taken advantage of loopholes in tax law and weaknesses in enforcement to shift their profits overseas and avoid paying taxes. The first step in shifting profits offshore takes place when a U.S. company sells or licenses a valuable asset, such as software developed in the United States, to a subsidiary in a low-tax jurisdiction for a price below fair market value. The result is that profits from the sale of that software are then shifted to that tax haven beyond the reach of U.S. taxes. We showed how Microsoft used this process, called “transfer pricing,” to shift $8 billion in income from products developed here in the United States to subsidiaries based in Singapore and Ireland, avoiding U.S. taxes. We also showed how, through complex transactions, Microsoft was able to use a subsidiary in Puerto Rico to shift nearly half of the profits from Microsoft products sold in the United States to Puerto Rico, avoiding a stunning $4 million a day in U.S. taxes. The second step involves games played with profits shifted from one offshore entity to another. Under our tax law, companies with income offshore normally don’t have to pay U.S. taxes until they bring that money back home to the United States. But, if the income consists of royalties, licensing fees, or other funds that don’t require the active involvement of the business, that passive income is supposed to be taxed even while offshore. But our hearing showed how some companies use an IRS regulation, which changed a provision in the tax code, to dodge those taxes. Literally, they’re able to check a box on an IRS form and make offshore subsidiaries — and their taxable income — invisible for tax purposes. The subcommittee has learned that from 2009 to 2011, Apple was able to defer taxes on more than $35.4 billion using this loophole. Google has deferred more than $24.2 billion in the same period. For Microsoft, the number is $21 billion. We also showed how some companies use a tax loophole to bring offshore money back to the United States through inter-company loans from offshore subsidiaries. Loans that bring offshore money back to the United States are ordinarily considered as having repatriated the funds, which are then taxed. But there’s an exception to that rule for shortterm loans. The hearing showed how Hewlett-Packard used this exception to orchestrate a constant stream of back-to-back loans from two offshore subsidiaries to bring billions of dollars back to the U.S. parent company. Instead of ensuring taxes were paid on those offshore profits returned to the U.S., the rule was twisted by gimmicks into bringing billions of dollars back into the U.S. tax-free. Still another ruse involves companies taking advantage of accounting rules to boost their profits on paper while avoiding taxes. Under generally accepted accounting rules, when corporations hold profits offshore, they are required to reserve funds on their financial statements for the future tax bill when the earnings are returned to the U.S. Reserving money for taxes reduces the profit numbers that investors follow so closely in public company SEC filings. So some companies avoid the accounting requirement by asserting that their offshore earnings are permanently or indefinitely reinvested offshore. The result is their financial numbers look better than they should. And yet, many multinationals have at the same time launched a massive lobbying effort, promising to bring billions of offshore dollars back to the United States if they get a repatriation tax holiday, a large tax break for returning offshore funds to the United States. On the one hand, these companies assert they intend to indefinitely or permanently invest this money offshore, while planning to bring it home as soon as Congress grants them a tax holiday. That’s not any definition of permanent that I understand. These tax avoidance gimmicks are unfair to the vast majority of American families and businesses who pay their taxes and don’t employ armies of accountants and tax lawyers to get out of paying their fair share. Profitable corporations shouldn’t be shortchanging America at a time of huge deficits. We simply can’t afford their offshore tax dodges. �Page 6 — Thursday, October 4, 2012 — The Hastings Banner GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. Worship Together… Area Obituaries Kathryn A. Campbell Patrick Joseph Loftus Joseph A. Ulrich HASTINGS, MI - Patrick Joseph Loftus, age 79, of Hastings, passed away October 3, 2012 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Grand Rapids of complications from a cerebral hemorrhage. Born March 24, 1933, in Ann Arbor to Henry J. and Elizabeth G. (nee Baker) Loftus, Patrick lived most of his life in Middleville and Hastings. He served in the 3rd U.S. Air Force 1951-1955, stationed in England and Emporia, KS. He worked 33 years at Bradford White Corporation, retiring in 1994. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Iris (nee Horsley); daughter and son-in-law, Denise and Dean Garn of Jenison; son, Andrew of Annapolis, MD; grandchildren, Dornier, Banan, Mallory, and Ross Loftus; step grandchildren, Ashlee, Lance, and Nolan Errthum; daughter-in-law, Debbie LoftusErrthum and husband Scott; brother and sister-in-law, Austin and Marcia Loftus of Manistique; sister, Elizabeth Heidt of Hastings, and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Patrick was preceded in death by son, Terrance in 2004. Patrick enjoyed camping, fishing and hunting prior to an illness in 1994, as well as watching sports and worldwide travel including several visits to family in England and Ireland. He was an avid fan of everything Irish, especially Notre Dame football. He loved being with family and friends, meeting new people and took an interest in genealogy. Funeral arrangements are pending; please visit Girrbach Funeral Home website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net for details. Funeral to be held at St. Rose of Lima Church with burial at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. CUSTER, MI - Joseph A. Ulrich, age 90, of Custer, passed away Friday, September 28, 2012. He was born October 21, 1921 in Petoskey, the son of Michael E. and Margaret M. (Daniels) Ulrich. Joe attended school in Petoskey and later in Hastings, graduating from Hasting High School in 1939. Joe honorably served in the U.S. Army from 1940 until 1945, during World War II. He served overseas three of the years he was in the service. Joe married Marie Nash on December 27, 1945. He was employed by the E.W. Bliss Company for 35 years, where he retired from. Joe was a member of the Motor-Aires motorcycle club. He loved to dance, fish, hunt, snowmobile and was a jack of all trades. He enjoyed making maple syrup with good friends, Mr. and Mrs. Donald Villadsen, after retirement. Joe loved his family and had many special friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Michael E. and Margaret M. Ulrich; brothers, Michael H., Paul E. and Leonard Ulrich. Joe is survived by his wife of 66 years, Marie; son, David (Barb) Ulrich of Branch; granddaughter, Wendy (Jeff) Gagnon of Dowling; grandson, Warren Ulrich of Hastings; great grandchildren, Jessica, Cody and Nora; and brother, George (Jeanette) Ulrich of Hastings. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Michigan, Donation Processing Center, 400 Perry, Big Rapids, MI 49307. Funeral services were held Tuesday, October 2, 2012 at the Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. Burial took place at Brush Ridge Cemetery in Hope Township. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, please visit our website at www.girrbach funeralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message to the family. 77571278 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Rev. Ryan Wieland. Sundays - 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Service; Sunday School and Nursery available during both services (Summer Schedule - Adult Sunday School: 9 a.m., Worship & Children’s Programs 10 a.m.) Youth Group, Covenant Prayer, Choir, Chimes, Praise Band, Quilting Group, Community Breakfasts and more! Call the church office at (269) 721-8077 (M/W/F 9 a.m.-12 p.m.), e-mail office@mei.net or visit www.countrychapelumc.org <http://www.countrychapelumc.org/> for more information SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 . HASTINGS ASSEMBLY OF GOD 1674 S. State Rd., Hastings, MI 49058 Phone 269-945-2285. Sunday morning service times: 9 a.m. with nursery and preschool available and 11 a.m. with nursery, preschool and kids’ church available. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 8:45 a.m. Traditional Worship; 10 a.m. Refreshments; 10:45 a.m. Contemporary Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Youth Pastor Eric Gillespie. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. for children and youth, and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Junior and Senior High Youth Group 6:00 p.m. , and several adult small group opportunities. Wednesday Mid-Week Pioneers at 6:30 p.m.: Pioneer Club, 4 years through 5th grade. Adults: Marriage Enrichment class, Women’s Prayer Group and a Men’s Bible Study. Thursday: Senior Adult (50+) Bible Study at 10 a.m. and lunch at Wendy’s, 11:30 a.m. Third Thursday Brunch at 9:30 a.m. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Sunday, October 7 - Worship Service 10 a.m. Sunday School 8:45 a.m. October 7 - Noisy offering for Love, Inc.; Jail Ministry; Men’s Alcoholics Anonymous 7 p.m. October 8 - Women of Faith 7 p.m.; Adventure Bible Study 7 p.m.; Recovery Bible Study 7:30 p.m. October 9 - Grand Rapids Pastor’s Conference 9:30-12 PM; Youth Committee 6 p.m. October 10 Wordwatchers 10 a.m. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-9459414 or 945-2645, fax 269-9452698. Pastor Amy Luckey. http://www.discover-grace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot.com. Friday - 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday - 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday 4 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Lauer Family Funeral Homes 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings Fiberglass Products 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 DOWLING, MI - Kathryn A. Campbell, of Dowling, passed away September 20, 2012. Kathryn was born June 14, 1939 in Battle Creek, the daughter of the late Bob and Jeannett (Haugh) Whalen. Kathryn worked for Production Plating Plastics in Richland, was a foster parent for over 150 children. She loved fishing, hunting, bowling, roller skating, stained glass work, crafts and was an avid U of M fan. She enjoyed traveling to Silver Lake and the sand dunes; and especially traveling to Canada. Kathryn is survived by her children, Michael (Theresa) Campbell, Timothy Campbell, Patrick (Jessica) Campbell and Rebecca Campbell; a brother, Bill Whalen; a sister, Judy (Stan) Whitney; a sister-in-law, Donna (Albert) Hashley; 13 grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her former husbands, Arcelious Campbell and Arthur Smith. A memorial service will be conducted Saturday, October 13, 2012 at 1 p.m. at Hickory Corners Bible Church, Pastors Albert Hashley and Jeff Worden officiating. Interment will take place in Cedar Creek Cemetery. Those who wish to make memorial contributions are asked to consider the needs of the family. Please visit www.williamsgoresfuneral. com to view Kathryn’s online guest book or to leave a condolence message for the family. Christopher Allen-White Warren Roddy Lynn Jacobs John Wesley Rodgers I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Christopher Allen-White Warren, age 59, finished his race on September 25, 2012. He is preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Elizabeth Warren; brother, Robert Warren; and nephew, David Jacobson. Chris is survived by the woman he adored, his loving wife, Patricia, and his three children, Jennifer (Rory), Joshua (Anna) and Justin (future daughter-in-law Megan). Chris also had faithful race spectators in his grandchildren, Chloe, Josie, Maxwell, Eliott, and Libby Jeanne. Chris leaves a legacy of kindness and philanthropy as the principal at Kettle Lake Elementary in Caledonia, and as an adjunct professor at Western Michigan University and Cornerstone University. Most importantly, Chris was a faithful Christian leader to his family and community. Chris was a rock to those seeking Christ, and Christ’s love was always visible to those around him. A memorial service will be held on Friday, October 5, 2012 at 5:30 p.m. at Ada Bible Church, 8899 Cascade Road SE, Ada. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Christopher Warren Memorial Fund c/o Hastings City Bank, Caledonia, MI. Arrangements made by Zaagman Memorial Chapel, 2800 Burton SE, Grand Rapids. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day. DELTON, MI - Friday, September 28, 2012 Roddy Lynn Jacobs, age 53, of Delton, born 03/06/1959, went to be with the Lord. He is survived by stepfather, Ron Everett; daughters, Heather Ballentine, Jennifer Jacobs, Katie Jacobs; son, Roddy Jacobs II; son-in-law, Jon Ballentine; grandchildren, Ember Ballentine, Darian Jacobs; siblings, Ron Jacobs, Cindy, Linda and their families. Memorial services will be held at Prairieville Bible Church Sunday, October 7, 2012 at 11 a.m., luncheon to follow. Memorial contributions may be directed to the family. Arrangements entrusted to: Whitley Memorial Funeral Home, Inc., Kalamazoo Chapel; (269) 488-2401. HASTINGS, MI - John Wesley Rodgers, “Doc”, of Hastings, passed away October 1, 2012, at Thornapple Manor. John was born December 2, 1928, in Bellville, ND, the son of Roy and Ida (Goodacre) Rodgers. John was a veteran proudly serving his country in the US Army. For many years John was a carpenter and worked the family farm, a job he loved. He also was a loyal employee of Bradford White, retiring in 1993. John also loved to hunt, fish and trap. He was a proud member of the N.R.A. and encouraged others to join. On August 2, 1957, at Fife Lake, John married the love of his life, Hildah I. Crakes, and she preceded him in death on January 31, 2008. John is survived by sons, William (Melody) Rodgers of Hastings and Wayne (Stacy) Rodgers of Portage; grandchildren, Lyndsay (Josh) Grasman, Jordan Rodgers, Luke (Melinda) Rodgers, Rachel Rodgers, and Elizabeth Rodgers; step grandchildren, Ashley Bowens, Jessica Bowens, and Megan Miles; a sister, Lydia Langerhorst; a sister-inlaw, Liz Nevens; and several nieces and nephews. John was also preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Ella McDonald, and a brother, William Rodgers. A private graveside service was conducted at Cedar Creek Cemetery. Memorial contributions to Cedar Creek Bible Church or a charity of your choice will be appreciated. Please visit www.williamsgoresfuneral.com to view John’s online guest book and to leave a condolence message for his family. See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits �Social News The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 4, 2012 — Page 7 Stacy Hunt Rothrock BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY by Gerald Stein NORTH N: 5 4 3 M: A K J 6 L: A K K: 8 7 6 3 WEST EAST N: K 6 2 M: 9 8 7 4 L: J 9 4 K: J 9 5 N: J M: Q 5 3 2 L: Q 10 8 5 3 2 K: 10 2 SOUTH: N: A Q 10 9 8 7 M: 10 L: 7 6 K: A K Q 4 BATTLE CREEK, MI - Stacy Hunt Rothrock, age 53, of Battle Creek, passed away at sunrise on Sunday, September 23, 2012. She was an angel on earth. Her loving husband realizes it was necessary for her to leave. Stacy has gone to obtain her wings. She was born in Hastings, on November 18, 1958, to Pauline (Cheney) and Hubert Hunt. Stacy graduated from Hastings High School in 1977 and Western Michigan University in 1981 (BS Degree). She earned a master’s degree in statistics from Western Michigan University in 1984. After graduation, she moved to Honolulu, HI, and worked in programming and project management at Honolulu Medical Group and the University of Hawaii. In 1992, she returned to Michigan to become a project manager for a number of clients. Stacy married Russell Burton Rothrock, M.D., on May 7, 1994, in Rochester. She became business manager at hr husband’s medical practice. In June 2000, she became director of advancement services at Albion College. She left that position in 2012. As a youth, Stacy’s passions were playing trumpet and piano. In high school, she was a member of the concert, symphony and marching bands. Upon graduation, she was accepted as a member of the elite United States Collegiate Wind Band, with which she toured seven European countries the summer of 1977. The following fall, she was a member of the Western Michigan University Marching Band. As a young professional living in Hawaii, Stacy enjoyed being an extra in television series filmed in Honolulu (“Magnum, P.I.”, and “Jake and the Fat Man”). After returning to Michigan, she enjoyed collecting dolls and working in her garden. Stacy is survived by her husband, Russell B. Rothrock, M.D.; her parents, and siblings, Deborah (Frank) Jesensek, Brian Hunt, Kevin (Vera) Hunt, and David (Wendy) Hunt. Also surviving are step-children, Raeburn (Tracy) Rothrock, Reed (Ellyce) Rothrock, and Caryn (Brian) McNally; and four grandchildren. Stacy also is survived by many nieces and nephews. Memorial contributions may be made to the Geraldine Townsend Fitch Endowed Scholarship, Albion College, 611 E. Porter St., Albion, MI 49224. A memorial service will be held, Saturday, October 13, 2013 at 11 a.m. at the Dowling Country Chapel, 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050, Rev. Ryan Wieland, officiating. A luncheon will follow the memorial service. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message to the family. Dempseys celebrate 55th anniversary Dealer: East Vulnerable:North/South Lead:AK North 4N Pass East 2L 5L Pass South 2N Dbl West 3L Pass Which is a better score? 1100 points made from defending and setting the opponents five tricks? Or bidding and making a small slam in the spade suit for 1430? What happened here? Let’s look at the play of the hands in this week’s column. East, as opener, took advantage of her very weak hand and used a weak two-bid to interfere with the opponents’ bidding. With six diamonds, and not even good diamonds at all, East fearlessly bid the two-diamond bid and created some trouble for the North/South team. They were unable to communicate to each other the strong hand and the potential for a slam that each one had. East had done her job very well. South with a strong hand and strong spades must start at the two or the three level to convey her strong hand to her partner North. It seemed that a bid of two spades left the door open for West to support the pre-emptive bid of her partner East. With three support diamonds, West was determined to make the bidding as difficult for North/South as East had done with her opening bid of two diamonds. West continued with the diamond raise to three diamonds even with only a few points. North entered the bidding with good support in the red suits and three spades to help partner South. North bid four spades, enough for game, but was there a better bid? Perhaps, but at any rate, East was now emboldened to continue the sacrifice. Not vulnerable, with plenty of diamonds between them, nine altogether, East jumped to a game bid in diamonds, bidding five diamonds. South looked at their own vulnerability, and she saw that they, North/South, were vulnerable. Five spades or double? The choice was easy to make for South who knew that East had opened with a weak point count of no more than 10 or 11 high card points, and six diamonds. West’s single raise was also indicative of a weak response promising three diamonds and a few points perhaps. Take the sure thing of setting East/West or go for more? This time South chose to take the road most would have traveled, and she plunked down the red double card. Three passes ended the auction. North/South had an easy time of taking two club tricks, AK and KK; two heart tricks, AM and KM; one spade trick, AN; and two diamond tricks, AL and KL, for down five tricks and a score of 1100 points on their side of the ledger. East/West could be seen smiling once the play of the hand had finished when all could see that North/South were solid for six spades worth 1430 or 6NT worth 1440. East/West rightly sacrificed and suffered “only” a 1100 point loss. Other teams playing the same hand might have bid the hand differently. The interesting thing about playing bridge is that there are these many choices and decisions that one must make all the time. Bid or double? Sacrifice or defend? On today’s hand, it looks like the plus score went to the East/West team for losing 1100 points. They could have just as easily been down 1430 or 1440 points instead. Using the cards in their hands, East/West used the weak-two convention to disturb the bidding and did it effectively. They were competitive even with very weak hands, and it paid off for them. Good bidding, East/West. Bridge question for this week: Did you see where North/South can get another trick if they had defended better? Then the score would not have been 1100 but 1400. Where is the extra setting trick going to come from? Answer next week. ***** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN Ruth Adell McDaniels HASTINGS, MI - Ruth Adell McDaniels, age 92, of Hastings, passed away September 30, 2012 at MagnumCare in Hastings. She was born on March 3, 1920 in Stanley, ND, the daughter of Carl and Ruth A. (Jackson) Moore. Ruth attended and graduated from Vermontville High School in 1935. She was a homemaker and a caregiver for most of her life. Ruth enjoyed sewing, crocheting, and crafts. She received a letter of accommodation from the Government of Florida for crocheting over 100 lap blankets for Vets at the Tampa, Florida VA Hospital. Ruth was a member of the Moose and VFW. She enjoyed wintering for many years in Florida. Ruth was preceded in death by husbands, Cecil Dudley, Louis Rice and Robert McDaniels; brother, Leslie Moore; two sons, David Dudley and Richard Dudley and granddaughter, Cathi Earl Bowerman. She is survived by her daughter, Roberta (Gordon) Earl Cooper; son, Mark A. (Tracy) Dudley; 16 grandchildren, special granddaughter, Anna Pisopo; 23 great grandchildren and eight great-great grandchildren. Memorial contributions may be made to the family to help cover final expenses. Graveside services were held Wednesday, October 3, 2012 at Hickory Corners Cemetery in Barry Township. Pastor Dan Currie officiated the service. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, please visit our website at www.girrbach funeralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message for the family. Electronic payments will soon be the only way to get benefits by Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Chances are, if you receive Social Security benefits, Supplemental Security Income, or any federal payment, you receive it electronically. More than 90 percent of people getting monthly Social Security benefits already receive electronic payments. A U.S. Department of Treasury rule will do away with paper checks for most federal benefit and non-tax payments by March 1, 2013. With a few exceptions, this mandate includes Social Security, SSI, Veterans Affairs, Railroad Retirement Board, Office of Personnel Management benefits and other non-tax payments. People required to switch have the option of direct deposit to a bank or credit union account, or they can have their monthly payment directed into a Direct Express debit card account (the treasury department’s debit card program. Visit www.godirect.org to learn more.) So, why the push for electronic payments instead of paper checks received in the mail? There is a list of reasons an electronic pay- ment is better than an old-fashioned paper check. • It’s safer; no risk of checks being lost or stolen. • It’s easy and reliable; no need to wait for the mail or go to the bank to cash a check. • It saves taxpayers money; no cost for postage and paper and printing; treasury officials estimate this will save taxpayers $1 billion over 10 years. • It’s good for the environment; it saves paper and eliminates the need for physical transportation. If you still get your check in the mail, don’t wait for the new rule to go into effect next year — sign up for electronic payments now. Visit www.godirect.org today and begin getting Social Security and SSI payments the safe, easy, reliable way — electronically. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. Jack McKelvey celebrates 80th birthday Jack McKelvey will celebrate his 80th birthday on Tuesday, October 2, 2012. Those wishing may send cards to Jack at Thornapple Manor, 2700 Nashville Rd., Hastings, MI 49058 or stop in to see him. David and Jodelle (Runyan) Dempsey were married October 4, 1957 at the Maple Methodist Church in Battle Creek. David retired from Union Pump Company after 41years and Jodelle retired from Interbake Foods and American Greeting Company. They enjoy traveling and attending sporting events with their grandchildren. They have two sons, David (Lisa) of Battle Creek and Bart (Sue) of Mattawan and seven grandchildren. The couple celebrated their anniversary with a recent trip to Alberta, Canada and California. Newborn Babies Standler-Bursley Mr. and Mrs. Paul Standler, Mrs. Julie and Jim Jones and Mr. Leroy Bursley, wish to announce the upcoming wedding of their children, Chelsea Standler and Jordan Bursley. Chelsea is a graduate of Ferris State University. She is currently a radiographer at Pennock Hospital in Hastings. Jordan is a graduate of Maple Valley High School. He is currently working at Munn Manufacturing in Freeport. He plans to attend ITT Technical Institute next fall. Jordan and Chelsea will be married October 27, 2012 in Hastings. Marriage Licenses Kyle Alan Davidson, Hastings and Anastacia Rachelle Wolcott, Hastings. Nathan Andrew Bartolomeo, Freeport and Victoria Catherine Keyes, Freeport. David Frederick Hegel, Comstock Park and Mary Ann Landon, Hastings. Brian Keith Mitchell, Nashville and Tamera Lynn Robinson, Nashville. Corey Robert Fueri, Hastings and Ashley Noelle Belson, Hastings. Richard Douglas Branch, Hastings and Barbara Jo Mellinger, Hastings. Nicholas Lee Reynolds, Middleville and Jocelyn Lea Callahan, Middleville. Aaron Clark Staines, Nashville and April Rose Tomich, Nashville. Michael Andrew James, Middleville and Christina Mae Wiersum, Middleville. Leah Elizabeth, born at Pennock Hospital on September 10, 2012 at 7:53 a.m. to Angela and Kevin Ferris of Dowling. Weighing 8 lbs. 12 ozs. and 20 1/2 inches long. ***** Heaven Leigh, born at Pennock Hospital on September 14, 2012 at 6:06 p.m. to Leslie DePriester of Hastings. Weighing 6 lbs. 13 ozs. and 19 1/2 inches long. ***** Dawson Lane, born at Pennock Hospital on September 11, 2012 at 2:31 p.m. to Jessica and Eric McCallum of Nashville. Weighing 7 lbs. 9 ozs. and 19 3/4 inches long. ***** KayLee Isabella, born at Pennock Hospital on September 13, 2012 at 8:08 p.m. to Lacey Holtrust and Jason Stephens of Hastings. Weighing 5 lbs. 5 ozs. and 17 inches long. ***** Carter David, born at Pennock Hospital on September 19, 2012 at 5:27 p.m. to Nina and Dennis Graham of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 7 ozs. and 19 1/2 inches long. ***** Loree Mae, born at Pennock Hospital on September 19, 2012 at 6:53 p.m. to Angelica Smith and Raymond Westfall of Hastings. Weighing 6 lbs. 13 ozs. and 19 1/2 inches long. ***** Kaylynn Russelle, born at Pennock Hospital on September 20, 2012 at 4:12 p.m. to Jamie Makley and Charles Richter III of Hastings. Weighing 5 lbs. 11 ozs. and 18 1/2 inches long. ***** Myla Jo, born at Pennock Hospital on September 20, 2012 to Samantha Storm and John Belles of Hastings. Weighing 8 lbs. 3 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Zoey Jo, born at Pennock Hospital on September 21, 2012 at 9:30 p.m. to Jenny Roach of Shelbyville. Weighing 7 lbs. 3 ozs. and 18 1/2 inches long. ***** Ray L. Girrbach Owner/Director 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 • 269-945-3252 Serving Hastings, Barry County and Surrounding Communities for 45 years •Traditional and Cremation Services •Pre-Planning Services •Large Parking Lot - Handicap Accessible •Serving All Faiths •Pre-arrangement Transfers Accepted Family Owned and Operated www.girrbachfuneralhome.net �Page 8 — Thursday, October 4, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of by Elaine Garlock Lake Odessa’s Fall Festival comes Saturday, Oct. 6, with activities filling the day from 9 a.m. through 3 p.m. The day includes a 5K run/walk, archery, bounce house, bean bag toss, climbing wall, mechanical bull, laser tag, obstacle course, glitter tattoos, pumpkin chunking, a fun run with kids, collection of canned foods for Manna’s Market, and a scarecrow contest. The local historical society will host a soup supper Friday, Oct. 5 at the museum in the Depot Complex on Emerson Street. This is an annual event. Women’s Fellowship of First Congregational Church will meet Wednesday, Oct. 10, at 10 a.m. for a field trip to Spring Lake to visit a mission project and deliver bandages the ladies have been making, both knitted and crocheted. Women of Central United Methodist Church made award presentations Sunday to Helen Mudry for her coverage of church events during her tenure at J-ad Graphics, Bonnie Leak and Helen Good. The UMW also hosted the coffee hour that followed the service. Elaine VanLaanen has been visiting her daughter Elizabeth Baeker and husband Uli in Milwaukee this week. Next week, the Lake Odessa Area Historical Society will meet for its second fall meeting at 7 p.m. at the Freight House. Visitors stopped by over the weekend for the Lakewood school exhibits which had class photos, yearbooks, scrapbooks of clippings, and souveniers from the 1975 state Class B basketball championship. Exhibits in this museum change nearly every month, with some permanent exhibits in place all year long. Here it is October and still the green beans are rolling in. Did you know that all the trucks are weighed at the agronomy plant of Caledonia Farmers’ Elevator? In years past they were weighed at the Second Street scales of the elevator, and back when the beans were hauled in common trucks, they were weighed at the main plant of Twin City Foods. Now with the double trailers, they can be accommodated only at the Eaton Highway location. Otherwise, they have to be detached and weighed one trailer at a time. Still, the trucks are hauling away the snippings to a nearby farm for disposal. The truck can be trailed by the trail of water sweeping from the load, especially as it turns corners. 269-967-8241 EDWARD JONES Should you prepare for ‘fiscal cliff?’ As an investor, you can sometimes still feel you’re at the mercy of forces beyond your control. This may be especially true today, when the Federal Reserve has warned of an approaching “fiscal cliff.” What can you do in the face of such a dire prediction? First of all, you need to understand what led to the Fed's remarks. Here’s the story: Some $1.2 trillion in spending cuts are scheduled to begin in 2013 while, simultaneously, the Bush-era tax cuts — including the reduction in capital gains and dividend taxes — are set to expire. This combination of spending cuts and higher taxes could take some $600 billion out of the economy, leading to a possible recession — and maybe something much worse, at least in the eyes of the Fed. Still, there’s no need for panic. Despite its political infighting, Congress is likely to reduce the “cliff” to a smaller bump, though it probably won’t happen until after the election. But as an investor, you may need to be prepared for two significant events: market volatility, at least in the short term, and higher taxes, probably for the foreseeable future. To combat market volatility, you need to own a broadly diversified portfolio that can handle “bumps,” “cliffs” and other rugged investment terrain. This means you’ll need a 06790990 mix of stocks, bonds and other securities that are suitable for your needs. (Keep in mind, though, that while diversification can reduce the impact of market volatility, it cannot guarantee profits or protect against losses.) You may also need to “rebalance” your portfolio to ensure that it’s still aligned with your goals, risk tolerance and time horizon, despite the impact of volatility. Now, let’s turn to taxes. Even if taxes on income, capital gains and dividends do rise, they will still, in all likelihood, be much lower than they’ve been at various points in the past. Nonetheless, you may want to consider a variety of steps, including the following: • Take advantage of tax-deferred vehicles. Contribute as much as possible to your traditional IRA, your 401(k) or other employersponsored retirement plan, and any education savings accounts you may have, such as a 529 plan. • Consider converting your traditional IRA to a Roth IRA. A Roth IRA provides tax-free earnings, provided you don’t start taking withdrawals until you’re 591/2 and you’ve had your account for at least five years. (Be aware, though, that this conversion is taxable and may not be appropriate if you don’t have money readily available to pay the taxes.) • Consider municipal bonds. If you’re in one of the upper tax brackets, you may benefit from investing in “munis,” which pay interest that’s free of federal taxes, and possibly state and local taxes as well. Not all these choices will be suitable for your situation, of course. Before taking action on these items, you may want to consult with your tax and financial advisors. But give these options some thought because they may prove helpful in keeping your financial goals from going “over a cliff.” This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 33.73 -.28 AT&T 37.81 -.25 BP PLC 42.71 -.30 CMS Energy Corp 23.57 +.21 Coca-Cola Co 38.34 +.66 Eaton 46.64 +.41 Family Dollar Stores 66.00 +2.84 Fifth Third Bancorp 15.46 -.10 Flowserve CP 128.05 -.59 Ford Motor Co. 9.79 -.30 General Mills 40.12 +.01 General Motors 23.68 +.16 Intel Corp. 22.84 +.30 Kellogg Co. 51.90 +.04 McDonald’s Corp 90.93 -1.93 Pfizer Inc. 25.12 +.28 Ralcorp 73.65 +.65 Sears Holding 55.40 +.15 Spartan Motors 5.02 -.08 Spartan Stores 15.45 -.25 Stryker 54.67 -.25 TCF Financial 11.90 +.32 Walmart Stores 73.75 -.51 Gold $1775.60 +13.55 Silver $34.65 +.88 Dow Jones Average 13,482 +25 Volume on NYSE 558M -145M Licensed / Insured / Local Call Scott 517-290-5556 • 877-448-1548 77571253 FREE Consultation & Estimates! ALSO EGRESS WINDOWS / MOLD REMEDIATION BARRY COUNTY Area TEA PARTY MEETING 7:00 pm • Tuesday, Oct. 9th, 2012 06793277 TWO BROTHERS AND A TENT For All Your Tent Rental Needs Tables and chairs available. Call: Dan McKinney 269-838-7057 or Tom McKinney 269-838-3842 77571325 MI Ballot Proposal Reviews Middle Villa Inn 4611 North M-37, Middleville Gary L. Munson • 269-623-8464 CITY OF HASTINGS Eating our way into trouble PUBLIC NOTICE The City of Hastings seeks candidates who are residents of the 1st ward for appointment to the Hastings City Council. Interested persons are encouraged to apply for appointment by completing an application form available at City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings by October 15, 2012. Thomas Emery, City Clerk 77571440 ® The 77566915 COUNTY OF BARRY Barry County will accept sealed bids for the sale of the following vehicle: 2003 Ford Crown Victoria – 110,905 miles; this vehicle will be sold AS-IS. This vehicle is available for review at: Barry County parking lot at the northwest corner of Jefferson & Walnut St. in Hastings, MI 49058. All sealed bids must be clearly marked on the outside of the sealed envelope as follows: “Sealed Bid, 2003 Ford Crown Victoria”. All sealed bids must be sent to: County Administration, Barry County, 220 W. State St., Hastings, MI 49058, NO LATER THAN 2:00 PM on OCTOBER 12, 2012. Barry County reserves the right to reject any or all bids, to waive any irregularities in any bid, and to award the bid(s) in a manner that the County deems to be in its best interest, price and other factors considered. 77571247 77564841 REQUEST FOR BIDS See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits by Dr. E. Kirsten Peters Lots of us have learned that foods that are good for us — broccoli and bean sprouts, perhaps — don’t trigger intense cravings. In the late afternoon, when my energy is low, I want a cookie or a piece of chocolate, not a green pepper. Similarly, when I walk around the grocery store, I go through the meats and produce section without feeling deep cravings for the food I see. But when I get to the bakery, all bets are off, even if I’m not hungry. These patterns of cravings are significant because what we eat affects our health so much. Obesity and diabetes are more and more problematic in the U.S., and all too many of us have a diet rich in French fries, doughnuts or soda pop. Why is it we so intensely want what is likely to be bad for our health? Could it be there are strong biological reasons for the pickle we so often find ourselves in? A recent piece from Oregon State University helps explain our pattern of cravings. It seems we have evolutionary adaptation to crave certain things. When we were hunter-gathers in the wild, we had to decide what to eat and what to avoid. Our lives depended on our choices. In the wild, sweet foods are generally good. They are safe to eat, and their calories help ward off hunger and starvation. When we were hunter-gathers, we were on our feet essentially all day, every day, burning through the calories we ate. Some sweet fruit was good — good tasting and good for us. Back in the old days, when we could hold off hunger by eating fat-rich foods, we also had reason to celebrate. The fatty portion of meat gave us a lot of calories, something we needed because our bodies were burning a lot of fuel each day. High-calorie food was to be welcomed in such circumstances, so fatty food was a good meal. Now, however, our natural craving for sweets and fats gets us in trouble. I sit at a desk all day, yet I crave sweets and fats as much as my hunter-gatherer ancestors during the Ice Age. It’s easy for me to overeat, especially because chocolates are kept in a bowl just a few feet from my desk. When it comes to the battle of the bulge, a good test is to conjure up the image of a food and ask myself if I crave it. Sweet and salty foods are high on the list of what I crave, even when I’ve been eating three square meals a day and don’t need more calories. The Oregon State University publication points out “flavor” is a complicated subject. Only part of what gives a food its flavor is taste: sweet, sour, salty and so on. Smell is also important; the smell of fresh brewed coffee comes close to driving me wild first thing in the morning. That brings up temperature, too, with the warmth of hot coffee being part of its appeal. Then there’s the texture of a food, such as custard. Finally, some foods are spicy, a feature that makes them a favorite to some people. We’re all different, and our individual brains decide what foods we like. But most of us have a hankering for foods that are high in calories. Now that we can choose at the grocery store or the restaurant what we want to eat, rather than having to chase it down in the wild, we all too often end up with more calories than is useful for our health. They’re good-tasting calories, to be sure, but there are just too many of them. But the good news from Oregon is that the way we perceive flavor is only partly instinct left over from our hunter-gathering days. It’s also partly learned. It’s certainly true that the first time I tasted coffee I thought it was terrible. Now I can’t live without the stuff. What we need to work on is retraining our senses to enjoy the foods that are really good — both good tasting and good for us. That may take more work than pulling up at the fast food outlet, but it’s important labor that can yield rich rewards for our health. Dr. E. Kirsten Peters, a native of the rural Northwest, was trained as a geologist at Princeton and Harvard universities. This column is a service of the College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences at Washington State University. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 4, 2012 — Page 9 the other side. Then John Robertson met them and took them to their home. It was two weeks before the floods had subsided so he could get his team. The next year, a neighbor wanted him to drive to Ionia, where the land office was situated, and take up a piece of land for him. The journey to Ionia consumed a whole day. But on the return trip, he became lost in the woods, and it was almost morning when he reached his home. For this long, hard trip consuming two days and nights, he received the princely sum of $2.50. But while he can recall the hardships and privations of pioneer days, Mr. Wood insists that there were many compensations. Especially is it a pleasure for him to recall the hospitality of pioneer days, which for sincere pleasure he believes far outweighs the formal social affairs of our time. Irving Township pioneer recalled rough journeys HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Hastings Public Library schedule Thursday, Oct. 4 — Movie Memories celebrates things that go bump in the night with “Topper,” starring Cary Grant, 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 5 — preschool story time enjoys stories about lunch, 10:30 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 6 — Lego Club creates some very haunted Lego scenes, noon to 2 p.m. Monday, Oct. 8 — computer class takes on “How to Turn the Darned Thing On,” 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 9 — toddler story time enjoys stories about hiccups, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.; open chess club, 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 10 — Royal Readers practice “The Hysterical History of the Trojan War,” 4 to 5 p.m. Call the library for more information about any of the above, 269-945-4263. This photo of “Hubbard and Son’s Threshing Outfit in operation at W.J. Robertson’s” in likely was taken many years after Silas Wood provided threshing services. (Photo from Middleville Michigan, 1904 Illustrated.) The following article was printed in the Aug. 10, 1911, Hastings Banner. ***** Some of his old pioneer friends who were in town Saturday were glad to meet and to greet H.C. Wood, who was a pioneer resident of Irving [Township]. Mr. Wood carries his 82 years very lightly indeed being hale and hearty, walking with animation and speaking with clearness and force and with no evidence whatever of the impairment of his mental powers. Accompanying Mr. Wood was his son Willie Wood of Parma. For the past 14 years he has resided in Owosso with his daughter. Seven years ago, his wife died in that city. Mr. Wood’s farm was on Section 19, Irving Township, 2 1/2 miles west of Middleville. He took it up from the government, paying $1.25 an acre for it, and cleared it himself. [Nearby land remains in the Robertson family in 2012.] The farm cornered on the John Robertson farm which was on Section 30. Mr. Wood drove with a team the entire distance from Richmond, Ontario Co., New York to Irving. He was accompanied by his mother on the wagon journey as far as Detroit, where she took the Michigan Central train to Battle Creek, and there awaited the coming of her son. That was in the fall of 1850. He first drove to Buffalo, a distance of 90 miles, then along the southern shore of Lake Erie and up to Detroit. He followed the wagon road to Battle Creek through Ann Arbor and Jackson. It was well into November 1850 when he reached Hastings on the journey from Battle Creek to Irving. This place was then a straggling village, with a few houses and fewer stores, surrounded by forests, with settlers making clearings here and there in the dense woods. At that time, Wm. Shaw drove the stage with its four-horse team, which brought the daily mail and the supplies for the tradesmen to Hastings from Battle Creek. There was then also a stage line to Grand Rapids, which went within half a mile of Mr. Wood’s home. His brother Silas came to Michigan from New York soon after, and brought to Irving the first power threshing machine that was used in Irving Township. His services as a grain thresher were in great demand in a wide scope of country. His brother, who was a great hunter, killed 60 deer the first year he lived in Irving. When he cleared up the land about his home, Mr. Wood left a hickory sapling about the size of a hoe handle. In the 60 years since that time, this hickory has grown to a splendid tree more than two feet in diameter. Mr. Wood can remember the hardships of pioneer life very clearly. Money was exceedingly hard to get. The pioneer didn’t belong to the union, so there was no limitation on the number of hours he could work and no fear of a walking delegate coming along to tell him he would be “fired” for too much overtime. The pioneer was usually several jumps ahead of the sun in the morning, and stayed by his job as long as he could see to work, and at that there was very little money in it for the pioneer, wages and prices for the commodities that the farmer produced, being very low. Two incidents of the pioneer days are indelibly stamped on Mr. Wood’s memory. One was when he drove to Otsego in the early spring of 1851 to get married. That ceremony performed, he started on the return trip. Meantime, the March rains had so swollen the Thornapple River that all the bridges had been carried away. But luckily he found one near the Bull farm with the stringers still standing although the boards had floated away. Determined to get to their new home, Mr. and Mrs. Wood left their team near Middleville, and they walked to this bridge, and then walked on the stringers across the raging river. They were mighty glad to reach NOTICE The Barry County Board of Commissioners is seeking applications from volunteers to serve on the following Boards/Commissions: Agricultural Preservation Board (5 positions: 2 representing Natural Resource Conservation, 2 representing Agricultural Interest, and 1 representing Real Estate or Development Interest) Building Authority (1 position) Charlton Park Village and Museum Board (4 positions, Citizen at Large) Commission on Aging Board (4 positions) Parks and Recreation Board (1 position, Citizen at Large) Road Commission (1 position) Solid Waste Oversight Committee (1 position, representing Health Association/Environmental Professional) Transit (1 position) Applications may be obtained at the County Administration Office, 3rd floor of the Courthouse, 220 W. State St., Hastings; or www.barrycounty.org; and must be returned no later than 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 24, 2012. Contact 269-945-1284 for more information. 77571399 77571335 I worked in law enforcement for 33 years. During that time, I was shot at multiple times, involved in high-speed chases and dealt with violent offenders on a regular basis. I have witnessed first-hand how our corrections system can offer those who made bad choices a second chance and turn former criminals into productive members of society. I also have witnessed repeat offenders commit crime after crime only to be re-released into society. Unfortunately, some people will never learn. Recently, I sponsored Senate Bill 1109, which would strengthen Michigan’s habitual offender laws by requiring a prison sentence of at least 25 years if the offender had been convicted of three or more felonies and is subsequently convicted of a serious crime such as attempted murder, assault with the intent to commit murder, rape, carjacking or kidnapping. During Senate Judiciary Committee hearings, Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette cited multiple horrific crimes, including first and second degree murder; that were committed by individuals who had as many as nine felonies on their records. My legislation would have prevented these crimes from being committed. Violent crime creates both tangible and intangible costs to Michigan communities every day. Research published by the Journal of Forensic Psychiatry conservatively estimates $275,000 per crime in criminal justice costs alone of repeatedly investigating, arresting and adjudicating a repeat criminal. A study published on the National Institutes of Health website estimates that just one murder creates approximately $8.9 million in costs. According to 2010 National Institutes of Health data, there were 556 murder victims in Michigan with a tangible cost of $710 million. A total of 4,908 people were victims of sexual assault, with a tangible cost of $200 million. There were 31,253 victims of aggravated assault with a tangible cost of $600 million. 11,386 robberies were reported in Michigan with a tangible cost of $240 million. For just these four crimes alone, Michigan communities are facing more than $1.7 billion in annual tangible costs. Intangible costs to victims and communities are untold. Obviously, no amount of money can erase the tragedy that violent crimes cause individuals and communities. Money cannot bring a loved one back to life, make you feel safe in your home after a break-in or turn back time to erase the horrific memory of a sexual assault. However, we can put measures in place to ensure habitual repeat offenders stay where they belong for decades behind bars and off the streets. �Page 10 — Thursday, October 4, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by David R. Scott, an unmarried man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Amerifirst Financial Corporation its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated June 20, 2011, and recorded on July 1, 2011 in instrument 201107010006447, and rerecorded on August 8, 2011 in instrument 201108080007508, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eleven Thousand One Hundred Thirty-Six and 17/100 Dollars ($111,136.17). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on October 11, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Northeast corner of Section 1, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, thence Westerly along the North Section line 396.00 feet; thence South parallel to the East line of Section 220 feet; thence Easterly parallel to the North line of Section 396.00 feet to the East line of said Section; thence North on the East line 220 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: September 13, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #408609F01 (09-13)(10-04) 77570977 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Monte K. Sauers, a married man and Joy A. Sauers, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated October 25, 2006, and recorded on November 13, 2006 in instrument 1172609, and assigned by said Mortgagee to CitiMortgage, Inc. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fifty-Eight Thousand Nine Hundred Ninety-Two and 15/100 Dollars ($158,992.15). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on October 25, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Assyria, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The East 30 acres of the South 1/2 of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 10, Town 1 North, Range 7 West, Except beginning at the Southeast corner of said Section, thence West on the South Section line 511 feet 3 inches; thence North parallel with the East Section line 255 feet 6 inches; thence East to East Section line 511 feet 3 inches; thence South on East Section line 255 feet 6 inches to place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: September 27, 2012 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #290314F02 (09-27)(10-18) 77571185 SYNOPSIS PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP Regular Meeting September 12, 2012 Supervisor J. Stoneburner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Present: Supervisor J. Stoneburner, Treasurer K. McGuire, Clerk Owens, Trustee Grundy and Trustee R. Goebel Absent: none Also present were 26 guests. Pledge of allegiance and a moment of silence for our troops. Agenda was approved with changes. Minutes were presented to the Board and approved. Correspondence was read. Barry County Commissioner report was given. Public Comment was received. Parks Report was given. Approved priority list of items to be paid for with the cell tower money Fire Departments report was placed on file. Approved Michael Strong for the position of Prairieville Township Fire Department Firefighter. Approve Kyle McDermott for the position of Prairieville Township Fire Department Firefighter, contingent upon satisfactory criminal background check. Police Department report was placed on file. Authorized Chief Thompson to create a purchase order in the amount of $29,500.00 for the purchase of a new police vehicle from Bill Snethkamp Dodge. Supervisor’s Report was received. Treasurer’s Report was received. Approved the bid from Terminex in the amount of $1,000.00 for a one year term. Clerk’s Report was received. Approved to pay Township bills for $91,053.56. Rejected the offer from Bill Aukerman’s for the Prairieville Farmer Hall of Fame Property and Buildings Adopted the Resolution RE: Gull Lake Sanitary Sewer Charges. Approved the proposal from BPH for equipment appraisal for the Prairieville Township portion in the amount of $117,535.00, and to send a letter approving the amount. Approved to send a letter to Delton Fire Department and Hickory Fire Department declining a meeting and not paying for mutual aid services. Approved to send a letter to withdraw Prairieville Township from the Southwest Barry County Development Team. Approved to make recycling on site each weekend at the township hall, effective immediately. Public comments were received. Board comments were received. Meeting adjourned at 9:01 p.m. Submitted by: Jill Owens, Clerk Attested to by: 77571319 Jim Stoneburner, Supervisor Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Erin E. Hall and Gary N. Hall, wife and husband, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated March 23, 2004, and recorded on April 1, 2004 in instrument 1124511, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Flagstar Bank, FSB as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ten Thousand Six Hundred Seventy-Three and 80/100 Dollars ($110,673.80). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on October 25, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Part of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 19, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, described as: Beginning at a point on the North Section line; thence North 89 degrees 20 minutes 58 seconds East, 800 feet from the Northwest corner of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West, parallel with the West line of said Section 289.00 feet; thence North 89 degrees 20 minutes 58 seconds East, parallel with the North line of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 19, 256.00 feet; thence North 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East 289.00 feet; thence South 89 degrees 20 minutes 58 seconds West on said North line 256.00 feet to the Place of Beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: September 27, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #408547F01 77571151 (09-27)(10-18) GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Gregory Young, a married man and Brandi Young, F/K/A Brandi Miller, his wife to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. , Mortgagee, dated October 8, 2008, and recorded October 28, 2008, in Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by GMAC Mortgage, LLC by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of $142,942.14 (one hundred fortytwo thousand nine hundred forty-two and 14/100) including interest at 3.75% (three point seven five) percent per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI at 1:00:00 PM on October 25, 2012. Said premises are located in the City of Hastings, Barry County Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, is described as follows: Situated in the City of Hastings, County of Barry and State of Michigan: Lot 57 of HASTINGS HEIGHTS, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats, Page 41 of Plats. Also the East 1/2 of vacated alley adjacent to said parcel on West side. Commonly known as: 1524 N. Jefferson Tax Parcel No.: 55-055-028-00 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, you may have certain rights. Dated: September 27, 2012 By: Foreclosing Attorneys Attorney for Plaintiff Weltman, Weinberg & Reis Co., L.P.A. 2155 Butterfield Drive Suite 200-S Troy, MI 48084 WWR# 10104638 77571232 (09-27)(10-18) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded bay the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Robert A. Myers Jr, a single man aka Robert Myers, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 8, 2009, and recorded on January 16, 2009 in instrument 20090116-0000463, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Twenty-One Thousand Four Hundred Ninety-Eight and 26/100 Dollars ($221,498.26). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on October 11, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Castleton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That Part Of The West 1/2 Of The West 1/2 Of The Southeast 1/4 Of Section 20, Town 3 North, Range 7 West. Commencing At The South 1/4 Comer Of Said Section, Thence North 89 Degrees 37 Minutes 01 Seconds East Along The South Line Of Said Section 673.55 Feet To The East Line Of The West 1/2 Of The West 1/2 Of The Southeast 1/4 Of Said Section; Being The Centerline Of Barger Road; Thence North 00 Degrees 21 Minutes 40 Seconds East Along Said East Fine And Centerline 330.00 Feet To The Point Of Beginning Of This Description; Thence South 89 Degrees 37 Minutes 01 Seconds West, 717.25 Feet; Thence North 00 Degrees 21 Minutes 40 Seconds East 1940.98 Feet To Traverse Point No. 1 On A Random Traverse; Thence Continuing North 00 Degrees 21 Minutes 40 Seconds East To The Centerline Of Thomapple River; Thence East Along Said River’s Centerline To The East Line Of The West 1/2 Of The West 1/2 Of The Southeast 1/4 Of Said Section, Being The Centerline Of Barger Road; Thence South 00 Degrees 21 Minutes 40 Seconds West Along Said East Line And The Centerline Of Barger Road 66.64 Feet To Traverse Point No. 7 On Said Random Traverse, Thence Continuing South 00 Degrees 21 Minutes 40 Seconds West Along Said East Line And Road Centerline 1925.96 Feet To The Point Of Beginning. Said Random Traverse Being Described As: Beginning At Traverse Point No. 1 Being On The Southerly Bank Of Tahoma River; Thence South 47 Degrees 30 Minutes 23 Seconds East Along Said Bank 237.59 Feet To Traverse Point No. 2; Thence South 88 Degrees 09 Minutes 45 Seconds East Along Said Bank 70.35 Feet To Traverse Point No. 3; Thence North 76 Degrees 18 Minutes 42 Seconds East Along Said Bank 272.05 Feet To Traverse Point No. 4; Thence South 74 Degrees 05 Minutes 32 Seconds East Along Said Bank 76.62 Feet To Traverse Point No. 5; Thence North 42 Degrees 37 Minutes 08 Seconds East Along Said Bank 148.61 Feet To Traverse Point No. 6; Thence South 89 Degrees 38 Minutes 20 Seconds East 33.00 Feet To Hs Point Of Ending At Traverse Point. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: September 13, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #409473F01 (09-13)(10-04) 77570940 THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. MORTGAGE SALE—Default has been made in the conditions of a Mortgage made by TIMOTHY LEE COLBURN AND JEANETTE ELLEN NORRIS, a single man and a single woman, Mortgagors, to NPB MORTGAGE, LLC, Mortgagee, dated September 13, 2005, and recorded September 19, 2005, Instrument Number 1153020, of Barry County Records, Michigan, which mortgage has been assigned by mesne assignments to First National Acceptance Company, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due as of the date of this notice $76,709.37, including interest at 12.95% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to the statutes of the State of Michigan, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public auction to the highest bidder, on Thursday, October 11, 2012, at 1 o’clock in the afternoon, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, Michigan. Said premises are situated in the Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 16 of Sundago Park, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, Page 71, Barry County Records; c/k/a 82 Sundago Park, Hastings, MI 49058 The redemption period shall be six months from the date of the sale, unless the premises are determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days. Please be advised that if the mortgaged property is sold at a foreclosure sale by advertisement, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 you will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale, or to the mortgage holder, for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: September 13, 2012 LeVasseur Dyer & Associates, PC Attorneys for Mortgagee Assignee P.O. Box 721400 Berkley, MI 48072 (248) 586-1200 (0913)(10-04) 77571000 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Richard J. Meade and Shawnda L. Meade, husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated September 26, 2006 and recorded October 2, 2006 in Instrument Number 1170796, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by The Bank of New York Mellon f/k/a The Bank of New York as successor trustee for JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Trustee for the benefit of the Certificate holders of Popular ABS, Inc. Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates Series 2006-E by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fifty-Five Thousand Eight Hundred Thirty-Two and 14/100 Dollars ($155,832.14) including interest at 8.38% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 10/18/2012 Said premises are located in the Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That certain parcel of land situated in the Village of Nashville, Castleton Township, Barry County, Michigan, more particularly described as: A parcel of land in the Northwest 1/4 and the Northeast 1/4 of Section 36, Town 3 North, Range 7 West, Village of Nashville, Castleton Township, Barry County, Michigan, the surveyed boundary of said parcel described as: Commencing at the intersection of the East line of Lentz Street and the North line of Reed Street; thence East along said North line 255.00 feet to the point of beginning of this description; thence North perpendicular to said North line 168.15 feet to a point on an intermediate traverse line, said point being South 18 feet more or less from the water's edge of the Thornapple River; thence N64ø34'49"E along said intermediate traverse line 108.73 feet to a point South 23 feet more or less from said waters edge; thence South perpendicular to said North line 41.46 feet; thence East parallel with said North line 3.80 feet; thence South perpendicular to said North line 173.36 feet; thence West 102.00 feet to the point of beginning; including lands lying between the intermediate traverse line and the water's edge of the Thornapple River. Together with a non-exclusive easement for the purposes of ingress and egress over a parcel described as: Commencing at the intersection of the North line of Reed Street with the East line of Lentz Street in the Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan; thence East 357 feet for a place of beginning; thence North 180 feet; thence East 20 feet; thence South 180 feet; thence West 20 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: September 20, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 189.4797 77571106 (09-20)(10-11) STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 2012-26200 DE Estate of ARLENE P. YOHO. Date of birth: 10/18/1933. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Arlene P. Yoho, died 07/12/2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Dwain Yoho, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court Street, Hastings, MI 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 9/28/2012 Michael C. Jordan P15600 Two W. Michigan Avenue Suite 301 Battle Creek, MI 49017 962-9591 Dwain Yoho 133 Wattles Rd. S. Battle Creek, MI 49014 77571337 962-9591 FORECLOSURE NOTICE RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES, P.C. MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. Mortgage Sale - Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by Dennis J. Coughlin and Lucinda A. Coughlin, Husband and Wife to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., acting solely as nominee for Amerifirst Financial Corporation, Mortgagee, dated March 19, 2009, and recorded on March 25, 2009, as Document Number: 200903250002673, Barry County Records, said mortgage was assigned to Bank of America, N.A. by an Assignment of Mortgage dated April 23, 2012 and recorded May 08, 2012 by Document Number: 201205080005351, , on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Seventy-One Thousand Nine Hundred Five and 34/100 ($271,905.34) including interest at the rate of 5.00000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the Circuit Court in said Barry County, where the premises to be sold or some part of them are situated, at 01:00 PM on October 18, 2012 Said premises are situated in the Township of PRAIRIEVILLE, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A PARCEL OF LAND IN THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 26, TOWN 1 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST, DESCRIBED AS: BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE NORTH AND SOUTH QUARTER LINE OF SAID SECTION 26, DISTANCE SOUTH 00 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, 1582.46 FEET FROM THE NORTH QUARTER POST OF SAID SECTION 26; THENCE CONTINUING SOUTH 00 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST ALONG SAID NORTH AND SOUTH QUARTER LINE, 330.00 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 90 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST, AT RIGHT ANGLES TO SAID NORTH AND SOUTH QUARTER LINE, 660.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 63 DEGREES 40 MINUTES 33 SECONDS WEST, 493.85 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 90 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST, 660.00 FEET TO THE CENTER OF NORRIS ROAD; THENCE NORTH 19 DEGREES 05 MINUTES 53 SECONDS WEST ALONG SAID CENTERLINE OF NORRIS ROAD, 940.00 FEET TO A POINT WHICH LIES SOUTH 00 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, 805.2 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 90 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST, 2070.19 FEET FROM THE NORTH QUARTER POST OF SAID SECTION 26; THENCE NORTH 90 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, 660.0 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 43 DEGREES 59 MINUTES 05 SECONDS EAST, 1080.24 FEET; THENCE NORTH 90 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, 660.00 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. EXCEPT: A PARCEL OF LAND IN THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 26, TOWN 1 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST, DESCRIBED AS: BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE NORTH AND SOUTH QUARTER LINE OF SAID SECTION 26, DISTANT SOUTH 00 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, 1582.46 FEET FROM THE NORTH QUARTER POST OF SAID SECTION 26; THENCE CONTINUING SOUTH 00 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, ALONG SAID NORTH AND SOUTH QUARTER LINE, 330.00 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 90 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST AT RIGHT ANGLES TO SAID NORTH AND SOUTH QUARTER LINE, 660.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 00 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECODNS WEST, 330.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 90 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, 660.00 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. TOGETHER WITH AN EASEMENT NON-EXCLUSIVE FOR INGRESS AND EGRESS OF THE NORTH 66 FEET OF ABOVE DESCRIPTION. Commonly known as: 14604 LOCKSHORE ROAD If the property is eventually sold at foreclosure sale, the redemption period will be 6.00 months from the date of sale unless the property is abandoned or used for agricultural purposes. If the property is determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 and/or 600.3241a, the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of sale, or 15 days after statutory notice, whichever is later. If the property is presumed to be used for agricultural purposes prior to the date of the foreclosure sale pursuant to MCL 600.3240, the redemption period is 1 year. Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages are, if any, limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: September 20, 2012 Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Bank of America, N.A. 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302, (248) 335-9200 Case 77571136 No. 12MI02876-1 (09-20)(10-11) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 4, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-26150-DE Estate of Archie D. Sinclair, deceased. Date of birth: 09/26/1923. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Archie D. Sinclair, who lived at 6712 South M-37 Highway, Hastings, Michigan died 04/02/2011. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Pamala S. Kloosterman, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West Court Street, Suite 302, Hastings and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 09/25/2012 Robert L. Byington P27621 222 West Apple Street, P.O. Box 248 Hastings, Michigan 49058 (269) 945-9557 Pamala S. Kloosterman 11368 Sheridan Avenue Allendale, Michigan 49401-9504 77571330 (616) 780-5213 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Trust Estate Estate of William F. Cutler, Deceased. Date of Birth: September 6, 1922. NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, William F. Cutler, Settlor of the William F. Cutler Trust dated June 2, 1993, as amended, died August 23, 2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the decedent, his estate or his trust will be forever barred unless presented to William F. Cutler, Jr. and Joan Cutler, Co-Trustees of the William F. Cutler Trust, in care of William F. Cutler, Jr., within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP Jeffrey B. Power, Attorney P38215 111 Lyon St., NW, Suite 900 Grand Rapids, MI 49503 (616) 752-2156 William F. Cutler, Jr. Co-Trustee 9219 Ten Mile Road Rockford, MI 49341 (616) 443-9630 Joan Cutler, Co-Trustee 8058 108th Street Middleville, MI 49333 77571281 (616) 891-7595 NOTICE TO THE RESIDENTS OF BARRY COUNTY Notice is hereby given that the Barry County Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing for the following: Tabled Case Number SP-6-2012 Dennis & Deborah Hutchings, (property owners) Location: A vacant parcel on the North side of Fruin Road near the intersection of North Avenue in Section 13 of Johnstown Township Purpose: Requesting a special use permit for an adult foster care home per Section 2307 in the RR (Rural Residential) zoning district. Case Number SP-8-2012 - Robert Bender Sr., (property owners) Location: 5524 Barryville Road in Section 7 of Maple Grove Township Purpose: Requesting a special use permit for a Cemetery per Section 2317 in the A (Agricultural) zoning district. Case Number SP-9-12 - Curtis and Joan Petrak, (property owners) Location: 3790 Grange Road in section 27 of Irving Township Purpose: Requesting a Special Use permit for an accessory dwelling per Section 2305 in the RR (Rural Residential) Zoning district MEETING DATE: September 24, 2012. TIME: 7:00 PM PLACE: Community Room, Courts & Law Building at 206 West Court St, Hastings MI Site inspections of the above described properties will be completed by the Planning Commission members before the day of the hearing. Interested persons desiring to present their views upon an appeal either verbally or in writing will be given the opportunity to be heard at the above mentioned time and place. Any written response may be mailed to the address listed below, faxed to (269) 948-4820 or emailed to jmcmanus@barrycounty.org. The special use applications are available for public inspection at the Barry County Planning Office, 220 West State Street, Hastings Michigan 49058 during the hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed between 12-1 p.m.); Monday thru Friday. Please call the Planning Office at (269) 945-1290 for further information. The County of Barry will provide necessary auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/hearing upon ten (10) days notice to the County of Barry. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the County of Barry by writing or calling the following: Michael Brown, County Administrator, 220 West State Street, Hastings MI 49058, (269) 945-1284. 77571344 Pamela A. Jarvis, Barry County Clerk FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Donald E Garrett and Autumn Garrett, Husband and Wife to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for Quicken Loans Inc. its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated September 22, 2006 and recorded September 26, 2006 in Instrument # 1170548 Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage was assigned to: Bank of America, N.A. successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, LP, by assignment dated June 21, 2012 and recorded July 2, 2012 in Instrument # 2012-001791 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fourteen Thousand Nine Hundred Thirteen Dollars and Eighteen Cents ($114,913.18) including interest 7.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on October 18, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Maple Grove, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land located in the North one-half of the South one-half of the Southeast one-quarter of Section 16, Town 2 North, Range 7 West, described as follows: beginning at a point on the East line of Section 16, which lies 983 feet North of the Southeast corner of said Section 16; thence South 88 degrees 23 minutes West 154 feet; thence South 323 feet parallel to the East section line; thence North 88 degrees 23 minutes East 154 feet; thence due North 323 feet to the place of beginning. Commonly known as 6810 Assyria Rd, Nashville MI 49073 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 9/20/2012 Bank of America, N.A. successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, LP, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-68444 (09-20)(10-11) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Kirk Robert Reed and Candace Kay Reed, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated February 3, 2003, and recorded on February 11, 2003 in instrument 1097473, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Nationstar Mortgage LLC as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-Two Thousand Five Hundred Ninety and 56/100 Dollars ($162,590.56). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on October 11, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 92 and 93, Valley Park Shores No. 2, according to the recorded plat thereof in Liber 5 of Plats, on Page 62 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: September 13, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #092873F02 77570984 (09-13)(10-04) 77571146 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTENTION PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE: Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage by Theodore Smith, a single man, original mortgagor(s), to Kellogg Community Federal Credit Union, Mortgagee, dated April 15, 2009, and recorded on April 21, 2009, at Instrument No. 20090421-0004312, in Barry County records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eighty-Seven Thousand Three Hundred Forty-Nine and 34/100 Dollars ($187,349.34), including interest at 6.0% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the lobby of the Barry County Circuit Court, 220 West State Street, Hastings, MI 49058 on Thursday, November 8, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. Said premises is situated in the Township of Johnstown, County of Barry, Michigan, and described as: Commencing at the center of Section 34, Town 1 North, Range 8 West, Johnstown Township, Barry County, Michigan; Thence South 21 rods to the center of M-37; Thence Southerly in the center of highway 16 rods to the point of beginning; Thence East 968 feet; Thence Southerly parallel to the center line of highway 732 feet; Thence West 968 feet to the center of the highway; thence Northerly along the center of highway 732 feet to the point of beginning. PPN: 09-034-017-10 More Commonly Known As: 15591 S M-37 Hwy, Battle Creek, MI 49017 The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be thirty (30) days from the date of such sale. Dated: October 1, 2012 For more information, please call: KELLOGG COMMUNITY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION Mark D. Hofstee (P66001) Bolhouse, Baar & Lefere, P.C. Grandville State Bank Building 3996 Chicago Drive SW Grandville MI 49418-1384 77571339 (616) 531-7711 FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Judy A Gray Loy, An Unmarried Woman to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for American Sterling Bank its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated October 29, 2007 and recorded November 13, 2007 in Instrument # 20071113-0004079 Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage was assigned to: BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P., by assignment dated August 4, 2010 and recorded August 9, 2010 in Instrument # 201008090007410 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Two Thousand Nine Hundred Ninety-Seven Dollars and Ninety-One Cents ($82,997.91) including interest 3.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on October 25, 2012 Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North 50 feet of Lot 82 of Mix Addition to the Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof; also commencing 23 feet North of the Southeast corner of said Lot 82, Mix Addition to the Village of Nashville; thence East 28 feet; North 50 feet; West 28 feet; South 50 feet to the place of beginning. Subject to and together with; an easement for the purposes of ingress and egress over the following portion of Lot 82 of the Mix Addition to the Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof, beginning at the Northwest corner of said lot and thence Easterly along the lot line 100 feet, Southerly 6 feet parallel to Phillips Street, thence Westerly 100 feet to the West line of said lot, and thence Northerly 6 feet to the place of beginning. This easement intended for the purposes of establishing a joint driveway, for the purpose of ingress and egress only between Lots 82 and 83 of Mix Addition, without the rights to park or otherwise block this easement. Also subject to and together with; an easement for the purposes of ingress and egress over the following portion of Lot 83 of the Mix Addition to the Village of Nashville, according to the recorded plat thereof, beginning in the Southwest corner of said lot, thence Easterly along the lot line 100 feet, thence Northerly 6 feet parallel to Phillips Street, thence Westerly 100 feet to the West line of said lot, and thence Southerly to the place of beginning. This easement intended for the purpose of ingress and egress only between Lots 82 and 83 of the Mix Addition, without the rights to park otherwise block or use this easement. Commonly known as 116 Phillips St, Nashville MI 49073 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 9/27/2012 Bank of America, N.A. successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P., fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, LP Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-68833 (09-27)(10-18) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: James E. Richard and Tammy A. Richard, husband and wife to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Flagstar Bank, FSB, its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated April 30, 2008 and recorded May 8, 2008 in Instrument # 20080508-0004963 and modified by agreement recorded May 23, 2012 in Instrument # 2012-000475 Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage was assigned to: Flagstar Bank, FSB, by assignment dated September 30, 2011 and recorded October 13, 2011in Instrument # 201110130009587 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Five Thousand Sixty Dollars and Two Cents ($125,060.02) including interest 3.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on October 18, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Part of Lots 11 and 24 of Culberts Plat No. 3, and land adjacent to Culberts Plat No.3 in Section 33, Town 4 North, Range 8 West, Carlton Township, Barry County, Michigan, commencing at the North one fourth post of said Section 33, thence South 00 degrees 51 minutes West 501.87 feet (501.87 measured) thence North 88 degrees 51 minutes West 440 feet (North 88 degrees 55 minutes West 439.91 measured) thence South 00 degrees 51 minutes West 312.50 feet (312.72 measured) the South line of said Lot 24, thence North 88 degrees 51 minutes West 96.21 feet (96.40 measured) to the Southwest corner of said Lot 24, thence North 12 degrees 21 minutes West 238.55 feet (238.23 measured) to the Northwest corner of said Lot 24, thence North 24 degrees 40 minutes West 50.24 feet (North 24 degrees 38 minutes West 50.34 measured) along the Easterly line of said Lot 11, thence South 80 degrees 42 minutes West 185.65 feet (185.70 measured) to the Westerly line of said Lot 11, thence North 24 degrees 40 minutes West (North 24 degrees 36 minutes West measured) 71.79 feet to the Northwest corner of Lot 11, thence North 65 degrees 20 minutes East (North 65 degrees 16 minutes East measured) 9.90 feet thence South 88 degrees 51 minutes East (South 88 degrees 55 minutes East measured) 377.18 feet to the place of beginning, Barry County Records. Commonly known as 39 Culbert Dr, Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 9/20/2012 Flagstar Bank, FSB, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-68521 (09-20)(10-11) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF A MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on April 23, 1996, by David C. Wingeier and Nancy M. Wingeier, husband and wife, and Ronald D. Berg and Carolyn P. Berg, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, given by them to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on April 25, 1996, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Liber 658, Page 131, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank by an Assignment of Mortgage dated July 20, 2012, recorded on July 26, 2012, in Instrument Number 2012-002579, Barry County Records, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of Fifty-Two Thousand Six Hundred NinetyFour and 53/100 Dollars ($52,694.53); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, October 25, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF ORANGEVILLE, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: Commencing at the Southwest corner of the Northeast quarter of the Northeast quarter of Section 9, Town 2 North, Range 10 West, running thence Northerly 450 feet along the East one-eighth line of said Section 9; thence Easterly 10 feet at right angles; thence Northerly 232 feet parallel with said East one-eighth line for the true place of beginning; thence continuing Northerly 232 feet parallel with said East oneeighth line; thence Southeasterly to a point in the centerline of Lindsey Road which lies 779 feet Northeasterly from the intersection of said centerline and the North one-eighth line of said Section 9; thence Southwesterly 220 feet along the centerline; thence Northwesterly to the place of beginning, Orangeville Township, Barry County, Michigan. Commonly known as: 5180 Lindsey Road, Delton, Michigan 49046 Parcel Number: 08-11-009-013-75 The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: August 22, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933 (517) 371-8253 29293:00117:1414250-1 (09-20)(10-11) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Steven Hard, a married man and Patricia Hard, a married woman, to CitiMortgage, Inc., successor by merger with ABN Amro Mortgage Group, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 1, 2002 and recorded April 4, 2002 in Instrument Number 1077672, Barry County Records, Michigan. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Three Thousand Eight Hundred Fifty-Four and 80/100 Dollars ($93,854.80) including interest at 6.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 10/18/2012 Said premises are located in the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, described as follows: Lot 937 of the City, formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: September 20, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 671.3827 77571122 (09-20)(10-11) 77571087 77571141 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Curtis M. Kenyon, A Married Man and Melisaa L. Kenyon, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 2, 2005, and recorded on August 12, 2005 in instrument 1151038, and assigned by said Mortgagee to THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-12 as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-One Thousand Five Hundred Sixty-Five and 25/100 Dollars ($81,565.25). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on November 1, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Castleton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land in the West one half of the Southwest one quarter of Section 28, Town 3 North, Range 7 West, described as beginning at the Southwest corner of said Section 28, thence North along the Center of the Highway 676 feet thence East 40 rods, thence South to the Center of Gregg's Crossing Road, thence West 40 rods to Place of Beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: October 4, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #412056F01 77571376 (10-04)(10-25) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Cathleen S. Tibble, an unmarried woman, to Option One Mortgage Corporation, a California Corporation, Mortgagee, dated January 17, 2003 and recorded January 24, 2003 in Instrument Number 1096135, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Trustee for Option One Mortgage Loan Trust 2003-2, AssetBacked Certificates, Series 2003-2 by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Four Thousand Two Hundred Four and 24/100 Dollars ($94,204.24) including interest at 8.15% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 10/18/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: CR/A parcel of land in the Southeast 1/4 of Section 14, Town 4 North, Range 8 West, Described as: Commencing at the Southwest corner of the West 1/2 of the Northeast 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 14; thence North 166 feet; thence East 400 feet, more or less, to the Shore of the Lake; thence South to the South side of said Northeast 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4; thence West to the beginning, except the South 24 feet thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: September 20, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 356.4378 77571101 (09-20)(10-11) �Page 12 — Thursday, October 4, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES Hastings students involved in crash GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Dianne L. Schwiegershausen, An Unmarried Woman, original mortgagor(s), to Centex Home Equity Company, LLC, Mortgagee, dated May 4, 2005, and recorded on May 11, 2005 in instrument 1146275, and modified by Affidavit or Order executed on March 31, 2010 and recorded on April 12, 2010 in instrument 201004120003830, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Four Thousand Two Hundred Sixty-Seven and 19/100 Dollars ($124,267.19). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on November 1, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Woodland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North 12 rods and 10 feet of the Northeast one quarter of the Northeast one quarter of Section 7, Town 4 North, Range 7 West, except the East 12 Rod and 10 feet thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: October 4, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #188791F02 77571381 (10-04)(10-25) addressed according to the student handbook. The accident remains under investigation by Hastings Police and will be submitted to the Barry County Prosecutor’s office for review. The Hastings Police Department was assisted by the Michigan State Police, Barry County Sheriff’s Department, Hastings Fire Department and Lansing Mercy ambulance. State News Roundup Some driver responsibility fees ended Oct. 1 Some of the state’s driver responsibility fees for lesser driving offenses were eliminated, effective Monday, Oct. 1 “These fees have been a costly burden on Michigan residents and I’m pleased to see some of them go,” said Secretary of State Ruth Johnson, who voted against all driver responsibility fees as a state representative and has worked for their repeal. “Citizens already have to pay court fines and usually see higher insurance rates for violations. These extra fees have made things tougher for many families.” The new law does away with $150 driver responsibility fees, charged for two consecutive years, for the following violations, committed on or after Oct. 1: Operating a motor vehicle with an expired operator’s or chauffeur’s license; operating without a valid license; having more than one license; and failing to surrender licenses from other states. The law also eliminates $200 driver responsibility fees, charged for two consecutive years, for these violations, committed on or after Oct. 1: Failing to have mandatory motor vehicle insurance coverage; failure to produce proof of insurance; knowingly providing false evidence of insurance. Drivers who owe these fees for offenses committed before Oct. 1 still will be responsible for paying them. Other driver responsibility fees of $500 and $1,000 for two consecutive years for a variety of more serious motor vehicle offenses, including alcohol-related, controlled substance and reckless driving violations, remain in place. Quarterly sex offender verification period begins The Michigan State Police in a press release is reminding registered Tier 3 sex offenders that the 15-day address verification began Monday. During this period, state law requires all Tier 3 registered offenders to report in person to their local law enforcement agency, sheriff’s office or nearest MSP post to verify their address. The Michigan Sex Offenders Registration Act requires Tier 1 offenders to verify their address annually, during the first 15 days of January. Tier 2 offenders must verify their address semi-annually, during the first 15 days of January and July. Tier 3 offenders must verify their address quarterly, during the first 15 days of January, April, July and October. Failure to do so carries a penalty of up to two years of incarceration. All registered sex offenders must also report a change of name, address, employment, campus enrollment, Internet identifiers and vehicle within three business days of any change. Failure to do so is a four-year felony. The Sex Offenders Registration Act allows for the arrest of an offender who is not in compliance with the Act’s reporting requirements. Violators may be arrested during a traffic stop or any other contact with law enforcement. Additionally, law enforcement agencies conduct random address checks to verify offender compliance. Item pricing reforms keeping grocery prices down Reform of Michigan’s item pricing law in 2011 is keeping Michigan grocery prices down and providing savings to consumers, exactly what the governor and lawmakers said it would. The years-long decline of grocery store jobs also has reversed since the item pricing reforms took effect. James P. Hallan, president and CEO of Michigan Retailers Association, said those conclusions come from recent government data. Hallan and Scott Watkins, director of market and industry analysis at Anderson Economic Group in East Lansing, said: • Grocery store prices from the first half of 2011 to the first half of 2012 have increased less in Michigan (2.5 percent) than at the national level (3.7 percent). • Grocery story employment is currently at 60,700, up from the 2011 figure of 60,600. This is the first increase in grocery store employment in Michigan since at least 2002. • Total wages paid by Michigan food and beverage establishments, including grocery stores, show a significant increase from first quarter 2011 to first quarter 2012 ($361.4 million to $390.5 million). Donald Grimes, senior research associate at the Institute for Research on Labor, Employment and the Economy for the University of Michigan, also said his research found prices have not risen as fast in Michigan since the reform law went into effect, and grocery story employment has increased. The full press release can be viewed online, www.retailers.com/mra-news/oct-2-item-pricing-reforms-keeping-grocery-prices-down Michigan Retailers Association represents nearly 5,000 businesses and their more than 15,000 stores and websites in Michigan. State signs disasterresponse agreement with Target The Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division signed a memorandum of understanding with Target Corporation, paving the way for state officials to partner with Target in the aftermath of an emergency or disaster in Michigan. The agreement was signed Sept. 22 at a community preparedness event in Flint, sponsored by the MSP and Target. The memorandum outlines the collaborative partnership between the MSP/EMHSD and Target to maximize resources and restore essential services during response and recovery efforts. Target assistance may include supplying basic necessities for citizens, providing resources to assist first responders and opening Target stores as soon as possible after an emergency. “Partnering with members of the private sector, like Target, is a critical component of Michigan’s emergency management plan,” said Col. Kriste Kibbey Etue, director of the MSP and state director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security. “With this partnership, Michigan’s response capabilities are greatly enhanced [since] Target has access to a wide array of resources and can readily assist with other logistical issues during an emergency.” As part of the agreement, the MSP/EMHSD will facilitate training for Target team members to join Citizen Corps as trained volunteers to assist first responders before, during and after an emergency. The MSP/EMHSD and Target are also joining forces to help educate citizens about the need to prepare before an emergency strikes. During September, in recognition of National Preparedness Month, the MSP taught more than 100 children in Genesee County about being prepared with each participant receiving a basic emergency supply kit sponsored by Target. In addition, both organizations recently hosted a Prepare Fair at the Target store in Flint, Mich., to distribute free preparedness items to citizens in partnership with more than 20 first responder agencies. For more information, visit www.michigan.gov/emhsd,. 77571349 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Shane S.A. Gerard, a single man, to NPB Mortgage, LLC, Mortgagee, dated August 27, 2007 and recorded September 12, 2007 in Instrument Number 20070912-0001949, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Cenlar FSB by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fourteen Thousand Eight Hundred Thirty-Four and 79/100 Dollars ($114,834.79) including interest at 7.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 11/01/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The East 85.27 feet of Lot 27, and the West 23 feet of Lot 28, Supervisor's Plat Number 1, Yankee Springs Township, Barry County, Michigan, as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, Page 77. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: October 4, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 275.0708 (10-04)(10-25) 77571445 FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Scott Edgerton, A Single Man to Ameriquest Mortgage Company, Mortgagee, dated September 1, 2004 and recorded September 13, 2004 in Instrument # 1133833 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned through mesne assignments to: HouseHold Finance Corporation, III, by assignment dated February 24, 2012 and recorded February 27, 2012 in Instrument # 201202270001953 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy Thousand Eight Hundred Fifty-Two Dollars and Fifty-One Cents ($70,852.51) including interest at 8.30% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on November 1, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot number eight (8) of Vickery's Lakeside Park, in the Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof and Lot nine(9) and the East seventy-four (74) feet of lot number thirty-four (34), all of Vickery's Lakeside Park, in the Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded Plat thereof. Subject to conditions, restrictions and easements of record. Commonly known as 1173 Cottage nka 10144 Cottage and 857 Watts, Dowling MI 49050 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated:10/4/2012 HouseHold Finance Corporation, III, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-66423 77571435 (10-04)(10-25) seat, was airlifted to a Grand Rapids hospital with a head injury. According to sources, he is now at home recovering. Jon French and Chad Reedy, the other two occupants, reportedly were uninjured. Hastings Superintendent Todd Geerlings said he was not able to comment if the three boys were back in school due to privacy concerns. He told the Banner, that hypothetically, if any wrong-doing occurred, it would be 77571352 77571111 Case No. 12-141-CH CIRCUIT COURT SALE In pursuance and by virtue of a Judgment of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on the 17th day of July A.D., 2012 in a certain cause therein pending, wherein THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-9 was the Plaintiff and Teresa Herlein and Duane T. Herlein were the Defendants. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that I shall sell at public auction to the highest bidder, at public venue, at the Barry County Courthouse (that being the place of holding the Circuit Court for said County), on the 29th day of November, A.D., 2012 at 1 pm o’clock in the forenoon, Eastern Standard Time, the following described property, viz: All certain piece or parcel of land situated in the Township of Thornapple, County of Barry and State of Michigan, described as follows: Lot 8, Near Lane Estates No. 1, as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats, Page 7, Barry County Records Tax ID: 14-140-0008-00 Commonly known as: 12942 Near Lane, Caledonia, MI 49316 This property may be redeemed during the six (6) months following the sale. Dated: October 4, 2012 Mark Sheldon Deputy Sheriff Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Ronald S. Glaser (P46986) Attorneys for Plaintiff 43252 Woodward Ave., Suite 180 Bloomfield Hills, MI 77571391 48302 (248) 335-9200 (10-04)(11-15) 77571355 77571358 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF A MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on June 23, 2008, by Daniel P. Buerge, a single man, as Mortgagor, given by him to First National Bank of America, whose address is 241 E. Saginaw Hwy., Suite 600, P.O. Box 980, East Lansing, Michigan 48826-0980, as Mortgagee, and recorded on June 27, 2008, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 20080627-0006666, which mortgage has been assigned to Rose Acceptance, Inc., on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of Forty-Two Thousand One Hundred Ninety-Seven and 33/100 Dollars ($42,197.33); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, October 25, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF HOPE, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: Lots 12 and 13 of Oakridge Shores, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 89, being a part of the Northeast fractional quarter of Section 19, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, Hope Township. Commonly known as: 322 Lakeside Drive, Delton, Michigan 49046. Tax parcel number: 08-07-240009-00. The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: September 19, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. ROSE ACCEPTANCE, INC. Benjamin J. Price of East Lansing, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933 (517) 371-8253 (09-20)(10-11) Three Hastings High School seniors were injured in an automobile accident late Thursday morning near Wendy’s restaurant in Hastings. Just before 11 a.m., an eastbound vehicle, driven by 24-year-old Deshawn Davis of Grandville, collided with a vehicle attempting to either cross or make a turn onto West State Street from Market Street. Travis Sixberry, a passenger in the back �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 4, 2012 — Page 13 Lake Odessa man faces involuntary manslaughter charges in Woodland bar fight death by David DeDecker Staff Writer Merwin Sam Sutherland, 36, of Lake Odessa was in Barry County Circuit this week to face charges of involuntary manslaughter for the alleged assault on 51-year-old Randy Baker of the Woodland area. Sutherland was accused of punching Baker outside the Woodland Townhouse Bar early Jan. 7. The punch and Baker’s .23 percent blood alcohol level allegedly caused him to stumble backward, fall and hit his head on the street. Baker was taken to Spectrum Health in Grand Rapids and was in a coma for seven days before dying Jan. 14. Closing arguments are scheduled for Friday morning. In opening arguments Monday, Assistant Barry County Prosecutor Jessica Payne said the people would prove Sutherland attacked Baker and his action caused Baker’s death. The prosecution stated Sutherland was looking for a fight, that he was in an argument at the Lake Odessa Bowling Alley the evening of Jan. 6 and then traveled to the Woodland bar where he was loud and belligerent, was in a confrontation with people playing pool, and then got in a confrontation with Baker. According to the prosecution, after that night’s last call people came out of the bar and a commotion began between Baker and Sutherland. Prosecution said there was plenty of swearing and name calling, then Sutherland rushed Baker felling him with one punch, and left him laying in the middle of the street. “They will never forget the sound of his [Baker’s] head hitting the ground,” said Payne. “They knew something was seriously wrong.” POLICE BEAT Binge drinker doesn’t get far Hastings Police observed a car weaving back and forth Sept. 29 in the area of Woodlawn Avenue and Broadway. The vehicle traveled westbound on Woodlawn before turning southbound on Broadway (M-43). Police followed the vehicle and stopped the driver as he turned onto Thorn Street. The 47-year-old Hastings man, when asked if he had been drinking, admitted to consuming “four beers 20 minutes ago.” He registered .14 percent blood alcohol level on a portable breath test. Due to prior convictions of operating while intoxicated, the driver will be charged with enhanced penalties. The car was impounded. Beer snatchers fight among themselves Hastings officers were called to the Superette convenience store Sept. 27, where the owner said three men had entered the store recently, and after they left, a 1.32-gallon minikeg beer was missing from the end of the counter. The merchant said one man had been in the store by himself, standing near the minikeg, and two others came in to return some bottles and buy a couple of cans of beer. When paying for cans of beer, they did not have enough money. The man near the mini-keg gave them two dollars, and then walked back near the mini-keg. The three men walked out together. Surveillance video showed the man taking the keg. Police were able to identify the alleged thief and went to the man’s home where they were told he had left. As officers were leaving, they were dispatched to a report of several men fighting over beer on East Grand Street. Officers located a subject with minor injuries sleeping and snoring loudly near the sidewalk. Officers then spoke with two individuals who met the description of the other two males in the store video. They told police they heard several subjects fighting outside, but when they went to investigate, the others ran off, leaving the snoring man behind. The report was forwarded to the prosecutor’s office. Man demonstrates two definitions of loaded Hastings Police were flagged down by three people Sept. 28 and told that a person was passed out in the 200 block of East Grand Street. Officers found a man on the ground near the sidewalk. The man appeared to be sleeping and snoring loudly. Officers observed a small cut on the top of the man’s head, as well as a small amount of blood coming from his mouth. EMS was called to the scene and the snoring man was loaded into the ambulance. As he was being loaded into the ambulance, officers saw a pint of vodka sticking out of his pants pocket. The 49-year-old Hastings man was transported to Pennock Hospital for treatment of what appeared to be minor injuries and then to the county jail for an open liquor violation. He was released on his own recognizance the next morning. Driver signals non-sobriety Hastings Police observed a vehicle weaving in the area of Broadway and State Road Sept. 29 that also failed to signal when changing lanes as it turned onto West State Street. The 59-year-old Plainwell driver admitted to drinking two beers. Breathalyzer tests registered at .14 and .18 percent. Prior alcohol-related offenses will result in enhanced charges for the driver. The vehicle was impounded at the scene. Fire investigation reveals more Barry County Deputies were dispatched to Nashville for a house fire Sept. 18. Deputies were told children and their mother were still inside the house. While en route, they were told the children and mother were safely out of the fire. Upon investigation of the fire, mari- juana and a pipe were found in a bedroom. The 28-year-old mother said the marijuana belonged to her 29-year-old boyfriend who was currently in White Cloud for work. She then gave consent for the deputy to re-enter the house to investigate the marijuana. The woman does not have a medical marijuana card, but her boyfriend does. Deputies took photographs and documented the scene, then they contacted the boyfriend by phone. The man provided medical marijuana card information. He was told by deputies the dresser drawer was an unsecure location. A report has been forwarded to the prosecutor’s office for review. Homeowner said tires are latest theft Deputies were sent to a Mullen Road residence in Orangeville Township Sept. 16 on a complaint of stolen tires. The property owner told deputies several truck tires and rims had been taken from his outbuilding. He said other items had been taken in the past, and he believed the culprits lived nearby. A lock on the shed was missing. Deputies unsuccessfully attempted to contact the man’s neighbors. The case remains open. Fleeing driver leads to car full Deputies were called to a traffic accident at North Avenue and Fruin Road along the Assyria and Johnstown township line Sept. 23. One of the drivers had reportedly fled the scene in a gray jacket. While searching for the subject, deputies noticed a car with headlights going off and on. Deputies activated emergency lights, and as the vehicle pulled over, it went off the road and into a ditch. A woman who had stepped out of the car was ordered back into the car. Deputies reported that the back seat was occupied by three males and two females. The front seat was occupied by the woman who had been ordered by inside the vehicle. She was sitting on the lap of a man in a gray jacket. When the woman was questioned, she told deputies she had left work that night and met her boyfriend at a party. When they left the party, she had her 14-year-old daughter drive the car. The 32-year-old Dowling mother said her daughter often drives the car since they live in the country. The girl had been trying to dim the lights and was accidentally turning them off and on. Two open bottles of vodka were found in the front seat. The woman’s purse contained several dozen unidentified pills which were seized as evidence. She was arrested and the car towed. An 18-year-old Battle Creek man in the back seat smelled strongly of intoxicants, deputies reported, and was found to possess marijuana. His Breathalyzer registered .16 percent, and he was arrested. The report has been forwarded to the prosecutor’s office for review. Boyfriend fails to break bathroom door A woman called 911 Sept. 27 to report she had been assaulted, was locked in her bathroom and her boyfriend was trying to break down the door. Deputies responded to the East M-79 residence near Nashville. The boyfriend was nowhere to be seen, once deputies arrived, but the woman said he might be hiding in the basement, which had a trap door as well as an entrance outside. Deputies cleared the house and then spotted the man outside near a pole barn. He was told to put his hands on the barn and was patted down for weapons. None were found. When asked about the assault, the man said he had grabbed his girlfriend’ purse by the straps and she had fallen down. He said he did not throw her to the floor as she had reported. Upon questioning, the woman said her boyfriend had become upset because she was working so much and would not lend him money. She decided to sleep at her aunt’s house because he was so upset. Reportedly, that’s when the 25-year-old man grabbed her bag and threw her to the floor. When she went to the bathroom and the man realized she was calling 911, he started to break down the door. When the Nashville man was placed under arrest and read his rights, he told the deputy he did not want to talk anymore. The case is pending review from the prosecutor’s office. Payne went on to tell the jury there was no fancy forensic evidence in the case, only witness testimony. She called several witnesses to testify Monday and Tuesday, including two bartenders and Baker’s ex-wife of 10 months prior, who was at the bar that night. “This is a perfect case for a jury,” said defense attorney Carol Jones-Dwyer in her opening statement. “There are no certain facts which make the difference between innocence and guilt. It depends on the witnesses. Nobody here is a bad person, but something awful happened. You are being asked if Merwyn Sutherland has criminal responsibility for what happened.” Dwyer said the jury would hear from witnesses that there was no real confrontation in the bar, but that the “big money question” was what happened outside the bar. She told jurors that witnesses would say Baker was the aggressor and got ready to fight by taking off his insulated vest, flannel shirt and glasses. She said when a female bartender stepped between Baker and Sutherland outside the bar that night, the 300-pound Baker pushed her aside causing her to fall. Dwyer said Baker was a “raging bull” and continued to pursue Sutherland, who wanted to leave and was walking to his vehicle. Dwyer said when Sutherland punched Baker, he had the right to stand his ground, and under the law had no duty to run away. “It was a tragedy for everyone,” concluded Dwyer. “But, it was not criminal.” The prosecution began by calling Barry County Deputy Steve Lehman to the stand. Lehman characterized the bar in Woodland as “A rougher local bar.” He also said there were frequent dispatches to the street outside the bar for assaults, a claim other witnesses denied. Payne then played the 911 calls from the incident. In the longest recording, the bartender is heard calling for help and the 911 dispatcher asks her if Baker is breathing. On the recording, Baker is lying prone in the middle of the street and can be heard snoring. The dispatcher asks the bartender to check his airway. The dispatcher asks the bartender to prepare for CPR, and then EMS arrives. A second, shorter 911 call is from a woman saying a man is lying in the road and is bleeding from his nose. Deputy Lehman testified that when he arrived, Baker was already on a backboard and being prepared for ambulance transport. Testimony was heard from more than a dozen witnesses. One witness, who was at the Lake Odessa Bowling Alley at the time of the alleged Sutherland confrontation, said there was no confrontation. The testimony prompted Dwyer to question the scheme theory of the prosecution. When another witness for the prosecution said there was no confrontation between Baker and Sutherland in the bar that night, but an civil argument about the military, another piece of the prosecution’s case weakened. Another witness testified to seeing no confrontation in the bar that night. Judge Amy McDowell told the prosecution the attempt to establish a pattern or plan needed two or three events, and they were down to less than one. Dwyer said 14 people interviewed by law enforcement said there was no confrontation in the bar between Baker and Sutherland. Only two people said there was a confrontation. “We have created the fight we are looking for,” said Dwyer. However, one of the witnesses testified she saw Baker go from easy-going to uptight when Sutherland walked into the Woodland Townhouse. A bartender testified Baker was buying drinks for everyone during the night and had written three checks for $100 to pay for them. She said Baker had been consuming a variety of drinks during the evening, including Jagerbombs, which is alcohol and energy drink combined. According to the witness, Baker left the bar at closing after purchasing a case of beer to go. She only remembers serving water to Sutherland. Baker’s ex-wife was called to the stand by the prosecution. She testified that her ex-husband had called her and his niece earlier in the evening and asked them to go to the Woodland Townhouse. The women arrived at the bar, and she said Baker was happy and buying drinks for everyone. She said later in the evening, outside the bar, Sutherland pushed her husband down, stood over him until she screamed, and then Sutherland put his hands in the air. The witness said she was afraid something awful would happen, and she wanted to drive her ex-husband home. She said a short time later the two were out in the middle of the road and she was asking people to stop them, and then heard a loud noise. When she looked back Baker was lying on the pavement. “I knew it was a fight,” she said. “Nothing good ever comes from a drinking fight.” Crying, she told the jury, “It was so loud, I never heard a noise like that before in my life. I screamed for people to help. I thought he was dead. I was yelling at him to wake up.” Dwyer asked the witness if she had ever talked to an attorney about Randy Baker’s estate suing the bar, and she said no. It was determined later that she had indeed talked to a lawyer from a life insurance company. The insurance company was interested in the bar. The prosecution called an expert forensic pathologist to the stand. Dr. David Start of Spectrum Blodgett in Grand Rapids performed the autopsy on Baker Jan. 14. Start said he has performed 3,000 autopsies over the years and has been assistant medical examiner in Kent County and medical examiner for Ottawa County. Start said Baker had a swollen brain, contu- sions to the brain’s frontal lobes, a hemorrhage of the brain stem, bleeding around the eyes and finally a five-inch fracture on left side of his skull. He also said the man’s blood alcohol level upon hospital admission was .23 percent. He explained alcohol consumption contributes to increased bleeding by interfering with clotting factors. Dwyer asked Start if he was familiar with the recent studies on alcohol and energy drink consumption. Start told the jury caffeine coun- ters the depressant property of alcohol, allowing the consumer to drink a greater amount of alcohol without passing out. Closing arguments are scheduled for Friday morning, Oct. 5. In Michigan, involuntary manslaughter is punishable by 15 years in prison. If the jury does not find Sutherland guilty of involuntary manslaughter, he may face the lesser charge of assault and battery. COURT NEWS Eric Lee Lobdell, 37, of Hastings was sentenced in Barry County Circuit Court Sept. 27 for assaulting, resisting or obstructing a police officer. Judge Amy McDowell ordered Lobdell to serve 13 to 24 months in prison, with credit for 79 days served. He must pay $198 in court costs. There was objection to boot camp. A charge of retail fraud, third offense, was dropped. Lobdell also was sentenced on the same day on two charges of operating under the influence of alcohol with an passenger under 16, and a probation violation. He was ordered to serve 18 to 60 months in prison, with credit for 79 days served. Lobdell must pay and additional $2,273 in court assessments. Charges s of operating with an expired driver’s license and driving without a security device were dropped. His sentences will be served concurrently. Rodney Charles Betz, 41, of Nashville was sentenced in Circuit Court Sept. 27 for operating impaired and a probation violation. Betz was ordered by Judge Amy McDowell to serve 11 months in jail, with credit for 72 days served. He must pay $5,732 in court assessments. Mary Renee Shannon, 42, of Flint was sentenced in Barry County Circuit Court Sept. 26 for operating under the influence of liquor, third offense, and habitual offender, third offense. Shannon was ordered by Judge Amy McDowell to serve nine months in jail, with credit for four days served. She must pay $2,198 in court assessments and serve 36 months on probation. Her last three months of jail time will be suspended pending successful completion of probation, cognitive behavior therapy and Alcoholics Anonymous. Shannon must pay $150 a month toward court assessments. Charges of operating with a driver’s license suspended, revoked or denied was dropped. Max Leroy Krebs, 33, of Delton was sentenced Sept. 26 in Circuit Court for possession of methamphetamine and operating impaired. Krebs was ordered by Judge Amy McDowell to serve 12 months in jail, with credit for two days served. He must pay $2,251 in court assessments and serve 18 months on probation. A work release was granted by the court. Krebs must pay $175 a month toward court assessments. The last six months of his jail time will be suspended pending successful completion of probation. Krebs must participate in substance abuse testing. Robert Daniel Wacha, 54, of Ionia was sentenced Sept. 26 in Circuit Court for criminal sexual conduct, third degree with multiple variables; and criminal sexual conduct, third degree, second or subsequent offense. Judge McDowell ordered Wacha to serve 60 to 180 months in prison, with credit for 79 days served. He must pay $198 in court assessments. Charges of criminal sexual conduct, second degree with multiple variables, second or subsequent offense; and a charge of criminal sexual conduct, third degree, with multiple variables were dropped. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 For Sale National Ads Business Services ACHIEVE ENERGY INDEPENDENCE- With a Classic Outdoor Wood Furnace from Central Boiler. 25 year warranty. Call SOS your “Stocking Dealer” Dutton, MI (616)554-8669 or (616)915-5061 THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is deceptive, fraudulent or might otherwise violate law or accepted standards of taste. However, this publication does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the quality of goods or services advertised. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made in any advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you ask for money in advance of delivery of goods or services advertised. BASEMENT WATERPROOFING: PROFESSIONAL BASEMENT SERVICES waterproofing, crack repair, mold remediation. Local/licensed. Free estimates. (517)290-5556. AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 Garage Sale ANNUAL RUMMAGE SALE: at Fellowship Hall 912 Fourth Ave. Lake Odessa. October 5th from 9am5pm and bag day Saturday, October 6th, 9am-11am. Also baked good sales both days. Sponsored by the United Methodist Women. Wanted NO FEE HAULAWAY: dump runs small fee, will do tear downs! Fencing, scrap metal, unwanted appliances, fuel oil/propane tanks old black antenna dishes batteries automobiles mobile homes much more! For more information please call David, (269)605-7905. Automotive RICK TAYLOR’S DETAIL WORKS. CLEANING CARS OVER 44 YEARS 8:00 TO 5:00, MONDAY TO SATURDAY. (269)948-0958 In Memoriam IN LOVING MEMORY of Don Spencer 7-8-1946 10-5-2011 The precious years we had.... In life I loved you dearly, In death I love you still. For in my heart You hold a place No one else can ever fill. It broke my heart to lose you, But you did not go alone. For part of me went with you The day God Called you home. We took our vows together Said, “till death do us part.” But when God came and took your hand, My whole world fell apart. No one knows the heartache I try so hard to hide. Only God knows How many times I’ve broken down and cried. When I look back Upon our lives One of the things That make me glad, That you chose me to share with you The precious years we had. Love and miss you A lot Your wife, Kathy For Rent MIDDLE LAKE RENTAL: 3BD apartment. All appliances included, washer, dryer, central air. 1st months rent plus security deposit. Call Joe (269)838-2650. Help Wanted DEPUTY CLERK/COURT RECORDER: Provide clerk, clerical and court recording responsibilities for the Family Court. FT. $13.47/hr. Send resume and cover letter by October 10, 2012 to Robert F. Nida, BCTCFD, 206 W. Court St. Suite 302, Hastings, MI 49058. HELP WANTED CAREGIVER: experience, references & resume needed. Call (269)945-4867. OWNER OPERATORS W/TANDEM Axle Tractors. Dedicated Auto Parts Runs. Pickup in Spring Hill, TN to Lansing, MI. Great Pay, Benefits, Hometime! CDL-A, 18mo Exp. 22YOA. Clean MVR. 800-723-6046 x227. Estate Sale ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. Recreation WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are interested in leasing acreage for this years deer season. Call (269)795-3049 PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 �Page 14 — Thursday, October 4, 2012 — The Hastings Banner MOVEMENT, continued from page 1 of a citizens group called the Guardians of the Constitution. Members of the Raines’ group, which is said to number 275, hold licenses to carry concealed pistols and are described on the Eaton County website as a “self-sustaining, non-law enforcement citizen group of the County of Eaton who values, respects and appreciates our proud national heritage based on our constitutional rights and liberties.” Membership is by application through Raines, according to the website, and offered only to “interested law-abiding Eaton County citizens.” The group meets monthly to discuss a range of issues, including legislation and how to help legislators pass what the group considers good, viable laws. At the Constitutional Sheriffs and Peace Association’s convention last month, Raines was hailed by former Virginia legislator Larry Pratt for recruiting members to the Guardians of the Constitution from gun permit applicants. “If there’s some kind of emergency, he’s got depth to his bench,” Pratt told convention attendees, “and that’s an excellent idea.” Leaf held open an invitation for any commissioner — or media representative — who’d like to attend the next Constitutional Sheriffs and Peace Association conference. Leaf’s trips were funded by the Constitutional Sheriffs and Peace Association entirely though if they had been covered by the county, Leaf says, it would have been a legal expense for training and education. “It’s paid for by donations,” said Leaf of the organization’s funding of conference attendance, though he was unclear where the donations are generated. “You’d have to check with Sheriff Mack,” said Leaf, who stressed the educational value for all attendees. “What we’re trying to do is handle things calmly for people in communities who are afraid of what the federal government is doing,” concluded Leaf. Twenty bands to perform half-time shows in Hastings Saturday BUDGET, continued from page 1 shoot annually, and you can do your own math. There is no hoarding of ammunition.” “There’s no sharing of ammunition between our county and any other county?” queried VanNortwick. “Absolutely not,” responded Baker. “And you can stand a litmus test?” “Yes, sir,” said Baker. The volley over ammunition, which was joined by Commissioner Joe Lyons, was matched with fiscal concerns expressed by Commissioner Don Nevins. “This [approval of the budget appeal] is going to put us tight,” said Nevins. “I’ve always felt that, if they needed additional funds in the coming year, they could come back, then.” “There’s $2.6 million going to the sheriff’s department,” concluded VanNortwick. “It seems they should be able to tighten it down to find the $14,000.” Nevins, Lyons and VanNortwick were joined by Commissioner Robert Houtman in voting against the appeal, with Craig Stolsonburg, Ben Geiger, Howard Gibson and Dan Parker voting in the affirmative. Because the 4-4 vote did not reach a required majority, the sheriff department’s request was denied. Baker’s presentation was the last of the four department appeals presented to the board. County Clerk Pam Jarvis and County Drain Commissioner Russ Yarger were granted $4,500 and $2,666 budget appeals, respectively, at the Sept. 18 meeting. Register of Deeds Darla Burghdoff was denied a request to restore half of a full-time position. The budget wrangling did not distract from the cautious optimism that came with presentation of the proposed 2013 county budget. “This year, we had our challenges in the budget,” Brown told commissioners, “but the challenges were not quite as onerous as last year and previous years. I’d like to think that the work that the board, administration and departments have done to take a look at some forecasting with regard to the MSU report has paid dividends.” Brown was referring to a study conducted TK/Hastings wins with two in top seven in every event Calvin Christian won more events, but the Thornapple Kellogg/Hastings girls scored a lot more points. TK/Hastings’ varsity girls’ swimming and diving team dominated the competition at its own Thornapple Kellogg/Hastings Relays Saturday in Hastings, scoring 466 points. Allegan was second with 358 points, followed by Wayland 298, Calvin Christian 296, Unity Christian 266 and Fremont 88. There were two finishes in the top seven in all ten events for the TK/Hastings girls. The best event was the first one, the 200-yard medley relay, which the TK/Hastings team of Kayla Strumberger, Alexa Schipper, Hannah Bashore and Kayla Kroells won in 1 minute 57.06 seconds. TK/Hastings also had the team of Lauren Ricketts, Libby Betcher, Katy Garber and Kourtney Dobbin third in 2:07.53, less than half a second out of second place. TK/Hastings also had the team of Garber, Dobbin, Kroells and Schipper win the 200yard freestyle relay in 1:49.23, the team of Bashore, Marissa Swanson, Ricketts and Strumberger win the 200-yard backstroke relay in 2:06.97, and the team of Betcher, Kroells, Emma Anderson and Schipper win the 200-yard breaststroke relay in 2:19.56. The Trojan team of Betcher, Anderson, Swanson and Bashore was second to Calvin Christian in the 400-yard medley relay, finishing in 4:46.45. TK/Hastings was also second to the Squires in the 200-yard butterfly relay, with the team of Garber, Betcher, Jennifer Tuokkola and Bashore finishing in 2:01.42. The TK/Hastings girls headed into their home invitational having just scored a 101-78 win over Wayland Thursday. Schipper and Bashore won two individual events each. Schipper took the 100-yard breaststroke in 1:11.26 and the 50-yard freestyle in 26.30. Bashore won the 200-yard individual medley in 2:28.52 and the 100yard butterfly in 1:06.66. That duo also teamed up with Garber and Kroells to win the 200-yard medley relay in 2:091.95. It was Swanson, Dobbin, Garber and Schipper winning the 200-yard freestyle relay in 1:52.54, while the team of Bashore, Swanson, Strumberger and Kroells won the 400-yard freestyle relay in 4:11.08. TK/Hastings also had Kroells win the 100yard freestyle in 59.13, Tuokkola win the 500-yard freestyle in 6:13.27 and Strumberger take the 100-yard backstroke in 1:06.79. See us for color copies, one-hour photo processing and all your printing needs. PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy., Hastings. At the gray barn by Michigan State University in 2009 that made five-year optimistic and pessimistic forecasts of Barry County’s financial future. By taking a mid-line track and making changes and corrections, Brown reminded commissioners, the county avoided the study’s prediction of a depleted fund balance by the Oct. 31 end of the 2012 fiscal year. Instead, the current fund balance stands at 17 percent. The MSU study predicts a financial “bottom” to the current cycle in 2014 and an upturn in property tax revenue beginning in 2015. Property taxes are the largest single general fund revenue source accounting for $9.8 million of the $14 million budget for 2013. “Again, we’re seeing that track much more closely to the optimistic line,” said Brown, “and we have in this budget recommended that you follow that scenario.” In other business, the board recommended the following items for formal approval at its Oct. 9 meeting: • A request from the Southwest Michigan Land Conservancy to name an un-named tributary of Glass Creek in Hope Township, part of a 65-acre purchase and donation from the Tyden family, “Tyden Creek.” • Acceptance of a Farmland and Open Space Preservation Program property from Stephen DeGroote of Carlton Township. • A resolution reinstating Barry County into the Southcentral Michigan Planning Council Region 3. As presented by Economic Development Alliance Director Valerie Byrnes, the action to rejoin Region 3 is a first step in the procedure for transfer to the West Michigan Regional Planning Council. NEWS BRIEFS, contd. from page 1 event when it hosts Hastings Monday, Oct. 8. Both teams participate in the Hastings Relay for Life each year, and are putting together this event as another way to help raise funds for the fight against cancer. The public is invited to attend and help support the cause. The teams are also inviting all cancer survivors in the area to join in the festivities and be honored during their celebration service. Barry County College Night is Wednesday Hastings High School will host Barry County College Night for all area high school students Wednesday, Oct. 10, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the HHS gymnasium, 520 W. South St. More than 40 colleges and universities, along with military and other educationrelated organizations, are expected to have representatives in attendance. Students are encouraged to visit with the college representatives and gather information on the schools and their programs of study. Financial aid presentations will be given at 6:30 and 7:15 p.m. Any student from any high school is invited. Five Class A bands — including Battle Creek Lakeview, pictured here at a recent marching band festival in Battle Creek — will be among the 20 bands competing in Hastings Saturday, beginning at 2 p.m. (J-Ad News Service) Saturday, Oct. 6, the Hastings Saxon Marching Band will host the 21st annual Hastings Marching Band Invitational. Performances will begin at 2 p.m. and continue all day long at 15-minute intervals as some of the finest high school marching bands perform and compete for top honors, said Hastings Band Director Spencer White. A total of 20 high school bands will perform their fall half-time shows at Johnson Field in Hastings. Several bands are from the area — including Delton Kellogg, Lakewood, Maple Valley and Caledonia — as well as many from across the state. The bands will be adjudicated in several areas by judges who are trained in specialty areas such as music, marching, and visual effect. Awards will be presented in special categories, such as field commanders, color guard and percussion. Bands and their performance times include Class D bands: Martin, 2; Fowler, 2:15; Mendon, 2:30; Bangor, 2:45; Maple Valley, 3; and Gobles, 3:15 p.m. Class C bands will include Springport, 3:45; Godfrey-Lee, 4; Delton Kellogg, 4:15; Lakewood, 4:30; and Coloma, 4:45 p.m. Awards for Class C and D bands will be given at 5 p.m., followed by a break. DK volleyball improves KVA record to 5-0 Delton Kellogg’s varsity volleyball team got off to a great start, then cruised to a 3-0 victory over Galesburg-Augusta in Kalamazoo Valley Association action Wednesday. The Panthers improved to 5-0 in the league with their 25-9, 25-13, 25-21 victory over the host Rams. Alisha VanderWoude led the way for Delton Kellogg with 18 kills. Faith Ferris added another 11 kills. Kristen Mohn had 34 assists in the three sets for the Panthers, while Rachel Parker had a team-high 17 digs. Kati Thompson led the home team with nine kills. Kealey O’Day had 11 assists and Alexa Welch had seven digs. The Panthers were scheduled to host Hackett for a league dual last night and will be back at it in the league next Wednesday at Olivet. Class B bands include Wayland Union, performing at 6; Edwardsburg, 6:15; and Ionia, 6:30 p.m. Class A bands competing will be Battle Creek Lakeview, 7; Kenowa Hills, 7:15; Grand Ledge, 7:30; Caledonia, 8; and Kalamazoo Central at 8:15 p.m. Host Hastings will perform an exhibition show, not part of the competition, at 8:30 p.m. Awards for Class A and B bands will follow. “All in all, there will be over 1,300 marchers on the school campus,” said White. “This also rallies involvement from all over the community and the Hastings area. More than 60 high school band parents will be working to produce the invitational. Local businesses, too, support this event, he added. The festival is sponsored by the Hastings Band Boosters, and all proceeds go toward support of the Hastings band program. Tickets are $5 for adults, $4 for students and seniors, children under 5 are free. Saxon Sports Shorts JV Girls’ Golf The Hastings JV girls’ golf team fell 212 to 229 to Holland Christian at Winding Creek Monday. The Saxons were led by Samantha Slatkin’s 51. The Saxons were second at the nine-team Kenowa Hills Invitational Friday. South Christian took the title with a score of 201, followed by Hastings 211, Greenville 216, Spring Lake 216, Grand Rapids Catholic Central 218, Mona Shores 220, Forest Hills Central 228, Grand Rapids Christian 229 and Forest Hills Eastern 232. Slatkin and MacKenzie Monroe each shot a 49 to lead the Saxons, tying for the third lowest score of the day and earning them medals. Freshman Volleyball The Hastings freshman volleyball team continued a winning streak by beating Ottawa Hills 25-3, 25-11 Thursday. Anna Kendall had four aces, Maddie Youngs five aces and Jessi Slaughter three aces for the Saxons. Maryn McCausey had three assists while Emmalee Yates had four kills. BOWLING SCORES Tuesday Trios SAM 15-5; Wash King 13-7; CB’s 12-8; Team Turkey 12-8; Look Ins. 10-10; Coleman Ins. 10-6; Lu’s Team 8.5-7.5; Classic Trio 614; Blair Landscaping 5.5-14.5; Ghost Team 0-20. High Game - Tammy D. 202; Rhonda 184; Renee B. 182. High Series - Tammy D. 550; Renee B. 501; Kim C. 490. Area Locations to purchase the Hastings Banner! Hastings: One Stop Shop (BP) (M-43 North) Tom’s Market Superette Family Fare One Stop Food (BP) (M-37 South) Hastings Speedy Mart (Shell) Bosley Admiral Penn-Nook Gift Shop P.B. Gas Station (W. State St.) BP Gas Station (M-37 West) Xpress Mart Family Fare Gas Station Woody’s General Store Middleville: Speedway Middleville Marketplace Greg’s Get-It-N-Go Shell Gun Lake: Sam’s Gourmet Foods Gun Lake Amoco Gun Lake Shell Orangeville: Orangeville Fast Stop Cloverdale: Cloverdale General Brown’s Cedar Creek Grocery Delton: Felpausch Shell Banfield: Banfield General Store Lacey: Clyde’s Sportsman Post Dowling: Goldsworthys Dowling General Store Prairieville: Prairieville Fast Stop Woodland: Woodland Express Sunday Night Mixed Comebacks 11; Street Bowlers 9; Sunday Snoozers 8; Straightliners 7; You’re Up N Shit 5; H2O 4. Women’s Good Games and Series - K. Becker 188-514; D. Pettengill 162-409; F. Featherly 135-359; C. DeMott 173; M. Simpson 173; R. Hunt 114. Men’s Good Games and Series - B. Allen 200-537; T. Santana 167-479; J. Craven 158393; S. Jewell 205; B. Hubbell 194; C. Santana 193. Freeport: L & J’s Freeport Milling Shelbyville: Weick’s Food Town The Store at Southshore 77566089 Pine Lake: Pine Lake Grocery Nashville: Trading Post Little’s Country Store Shell MV Pharmacy Nashville C Store Carl’s Lake Odessa: Lake-O-Express Lake-O-Mart Shell Carl’s Monday Mixerettes Kent Oil 13-3; Dewey’s Auto Body 11-5; Dean’s Dolls 9-7; Nashville Chiropractic 8-8; Creekside Growers 6-10. Good Games and Series - K. Fowler 199- 514; C. Wilcox 155; E. Ulrich 159-441; J. Rice 168-464; L. Elliston 202-553; T. Redman 139; C. Hurless 158-412; B. Anders 157; S. Nash 138-365; D. Anders 153-424. Senior Citizens Sun Risers 13-3; Three Gals & A Guy 11-5; Butterfingers 9.5-6.5; Just Having Fun 8.57.5; Usedtobe #1 8-8; Early Risers 8-8; Ward’s Friends 7-9; Kuempel 7-9; M&M’s 412; King Pins 4-12. Women’s Good Games and Series - P. Shellington 137-367; J. Gasper 246-568; Y. Markley 139-398; E. Dunham 180. Men’s Good Games and Series - H. Bowman 204-531; D. Kiersey 201-530; G. Bennett 143; P. Gasper 227; L. Markley 150409; D. Murphy 135-373; R. Obreiter 199505; H. Gibson 155-446; W. Talsma 185-499. Wednesday PM Court Side 13-3; Hair 10.5-5.5; Boniface Construction 9-7; Delton Suds 9-7; Eye & ENT 6.5-9.5. Good Games and Series - S. Stevens 130; J. Pettengill 122; N. Boniface 188; N. Potter 179-444; T. Christopher 184-502; B. Norris 125-320; P. Shellington 142-371; S. Beebe 184. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 4, 2012 — Page 15 Parchment edges Valley by six for first win of the year DK football team shut out by Kalamazoo Christian, 42-0 Jacob Webb ran for three touchdowns and then like trail behind a Comet Kalamazoo Christian spread the scoring out from there. Kalamazoo Christian’s varsity football team spoiled homecoming night at Delton Kellogg High School by scoring a 42-0 Kalamazoo Valley Association victory over the host Panthers. The Comets improve to 33 with the win, while Delton Kellogg falls to 0-6. Webb scored the only two touchdowns of the first half on runs of 34 and six yards, then scored the first points of the second half on a five-yard touchdown run. Quarterback Brennan Heidema added a two-yard touchdown run later in the third quarter, then the Comets tacked on two more scores in the fourth quarter. Ethan VanOosten scored on a 37-yard run, then Nate Niewoonder scored on a 27-yard interception return. That was one of two interceptions for the Comets. Senior Kenny Coates led the Delton Kellogg offense, rushing 13 times for 59 yards. Justice Kimbrue, another Panther senior, led the defense with eight tackles. Webb finished the game with 85 yards on the ground, on seven rushes. VanOosten also had seven rushes, for 71 yards. Ben Doorn added six carries for 41 yards. Heidema connected on a few big passing plays. He was 3-of-4 for 97 yards. Niewoonder had two catches for 52 yards, and VanOosten one for 45. Nemetz ties for first, HHS girls second at Railside G.C. Delton Kellogg’s Cameron Tobias leaps up to try and catch a pass against Kalamazoo Christian Friday night. (Photo by Linda Boyce) Hastings boys win duals with TK and Grand Rapids Union Hastings swept the four doubles flight and got a win at first singles to score 5-3 O-K Gold Conference victory over the Trojans in Middleville Thursday. In the first singles match, the Saxons’ Connor von der Hoff topped Travis Himick 62, 6-0. Hastings won all four doubles matches in straight sets. The Saxons’ top team of Mack Clisso and James Isola scored a 6-1, 6-2 win over TK’s Cade Bowman and Hunter Herich. At second doubles, the Saxons’ Marshall Cherry and Jaleel Richardson topped Levi Ryfiak and Breadon Halle 6-1, 6-4. In the third doubles match, Scott Garber and Adam Shaffer edged Nate Seeber and Ryan Lowery 6-1, 6-2. Ben Anderson and Brad Smith scored a 7-5, 6-0 win for Hastings over Ryan Lowery and Justin Sydolski at fourth doubles. Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity boys’ tennis team got a pair of singles victories. Justin Bergstrom pulled out a three-set win at second singles, topping the Saxons’ Drew White 7-5, 0-6, 7-5. TK’s Logan VanPutten topped Hastings’ Ryan Thornburgh at third singles, 6-1, 6-1. TK also had Nate Ryfiak score a forfeit victory at fourth singles. The Saxons followed that up with a 7-1 win over Grand Rapids Union Monday. Winners for the Saxons included Chris Doxtader getting a 6-2, 6-4 second singles win with a consistent match, White scoring a 6-4, 6-4 win at third singles, and the team of Cherry and Richardson playing well for a 6-0, 6-0 win at second doubles. Hastings will head to South Christian Saturday to close out the O-K Gold Conference season at the league tournament. South Christian topped the Saxons in a league dual last Wednesday, 8-0. The Saxons played well though. von der Hoff dropped a well-played threeset match at first singles, 5-7, 6-1, 6-3. At third singles, White played an extremely competitive match against a player with just one loss on the season, falling 6-3, 7-6. “ Both Connor and Drew hit many impressive shots for winners,” said Saxon head coach Ed von der Hoff. Hastings also got a very good match from the first doubles team of Clisso and Isola, which fell in two sets. “They are improving with each and every match,” coach von der Hoff said. Trojans dig it up to score win at G.R. Catholic Central The Trojans finally put everything together on a Thursday night. Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity volleyball team scored its second O-K Gold Conference victory of the season, topping Grand Rapids Catholic Central in five sets in Grand Rapids. TK won by the scores of 18-25, 25-18, 25-21, 16-25, 15-11. “The team played much more aggressively and with more confidence overall tonight,” said TK head coach Patty Pohl. “Defensively we played one of our best matches of the season as a team with many players contributing in digs.” Molly Lark led that defense with 15 digs, but she had lots of help. Jessica Ziccrello fin- then ran in the two-point conversion himself. The Lions turned the ball over on downs near midfield on their next possession, failing to get a yard on third and fourth down runs. Parchment took over with a short field in front of it again, and scored on a three-yard touchdown run by Cody Lambert. Lambert followed with the two-point run too. Parchment then managed to tally one more touchdown in the final minute of the first half, with Lambert scoring on a one-yard run. Zach Worline ran in the two-point conversion attempt this time to put the Panthers up 24-8 at the half. “In that second quarter we got bogged down a little bit,” Lincoln said. “I thought we tightened things up and played really good football in the first, third and fourth quarters.” The Lions pulled within a touchdown on a 32-yard run by Miller and Gonser’s two-point run with 3:14 left in the third quarter. A couple of Lion penalties though helped Parchment push its lead back to two scores on a drive that ended in a ten-yard touchdown run by Ryan McAffee with 11:18 to play in the fourth quarter. Parchment had a balanced rushing attack, with McAffee running 11 times for 62 yards, Worline 14 times for 61 yards, Lambert 13 times for 58 yards and Jehnsen seven times for 51 yards. Jehnsen also completed three of four pass attempts for 49 yards. The Lion offense was led by Miller, who rushed 14 times for 118 yards. Tyler Hickey added 12 rushes for 52 yards. Quarterback Beau Johnson completed three of his six pass attempts for 41 yards. Ryan Nisse had one ished with 14, Crystal Smith 13, Sydney Kroll 11, Erin Scheidel ten, Alaina Pohl eight and Jessica Morgan seven. Sydney LeMay led the TK attack with 13 kills, while Ziccarello added ten and Morgan nine. Alaina Pohl passed up 31 assists. “I hope the girls will continue to play with more and more confidence, as they have had some big wins lately, such as tonight and when we beat East Kentwood in a tournament recently,” coach Pohl said. The Trojans return to O-K Gold Conference play at home against Hastings tonight ( Oct. 4). TK is currently 2-2 in the league. Hastings holds second place heading into the O-K Gold Conference Championship tournament, which is being played at The Meadows on the campus of Grand Valley State University today. After finishing behind Wayland on its home course at last Tuesday’s league jamboree, the Saxons scored the second spot again on Thursday at Railside Golf Club. The host Sailors won the day’s event with a score of 184. Hastings was second at 192, followed by Wayland 198, Catholic Central 211 and TK 219. Hastings’ Kylee Nemetz and South Christian’s Arancha Baron tied for the afternoon’s low score at 43. There were three other golfers in the 40s. The Saxons’ Katie Brown fired a 44, and Wayland got a 44 from Makayla Holloway and a 49 from Ali Martus. Hastings also got a 51 from Amanda Sarhatt and a 54 from Lindy Kloosterman. The Sailors added a 46 from Bridget Hemingway, a 48 from Kelsey Ballast and a 49 from Megan Wierenga. DeeJay Minor led Thornapple Kellogg with a 51. Hannah Lamberg added a 53, Jada Bates a 56 and Sandra Gerou a 59. catch for 28 yards, Gonser one for 18, and Miller one for five. Brandon Erwin led the Lion defense with 15 tackles. Johnson had nine, Diego Pesina eight and Matt Wehr six. The Lions are now 2-4 on the season. Parchment improves to 1-5. Maple Valley will host Hackett Catholic Central for homecoming this Friday. Vikings second heading into today’s league tournament Lakewood’s varsity girls’ golf tema closed out the season of Capital Area Activities Conference White Division duals with a 172213 victory over Stockbridge Tuesday afternoon. The Vikings were 4-1 in the league this season, and are now 7-1 in duals overall. Emily Barker led Lakewood with the low round of the day, scoring a 39. “Emily finished as strong as I’ve ever seen a Lakewood golfer finish,” said Lakewood head coach Carl Kutch. Barker made an eagle on the par-4 eighth hole, then birdied ninth hole to go 3-under on her last two holes. “She hit the driver well and was outstanding around the greens with only 15 putts and four up-and-downs,” Kutch said. Olivia Barker added a 42 for the Vikings, Kennedy Hilley a 44 and Victoria Hager a 47. The Vikings head into the league tournament in second place, behind Lansing Catholic. The conference championship will be decided Thursday (Oct. 4) when Williamston plays host to the 18-hole tournament at Wheatfield Valley. Lakewood topped league foe Corunna 185 to 234 on the Midday nine at Centennial Acres in Sunfield last Thursday. Emily Barker led all scorers on the day, firing a 43 for Lakewood. Olivia Barker added a 44 and Hager and Hilley each shot 49. “Emily had an excellent round today, bouncing back from Tuesday at Groesbeck,” Kutch said. “She played smart yet relaxed. She trusted her swing and played with a lot of confidence.” Parchment soccer team beats the Delton Kellogg boys twice HYAA Football Parchment has scored back-to-back twogoal victories over Delton Kellogg. Parchment’s varsity boys’ soccer team closed out the Kalamazoo Valley Association regular season with a 6-4 victory over the visiting Panthers from Delton Wednesday, then knocked off Delton 3-1 in Parchment Monday to start the conference tournament. Delton Kellogg took a 1-0 lead Monday, getting a goal from Gary Egelkraut in the 33rd minute of the first half. Parchment though was able to answer before the break, getting a goal from Brent Dziewicki in the 38th minute. The game was tied 1-1 throughout much of Viking spikers win on Senior Night to stay unbeaten in conference Lakewood’s varsity volleyball team looked to finish off an undefeated season of Capital Area Activities Conference White Division duals when it traveled to Lansing Catholic last night. The Vikings improved to 4-0 in the league by defeating league newcomer Stockbridge, 25-12, 25-7, 25-6 with a great effort by the entire team on senior night in the Lakewood High School gymnasium last Wednesday. “It was senior night, and it was a great crowd with an energetic student body,” said Lakewood head coach Kellie Rowland. Seniors led the Vikings in all the major statistical categories. Olivia Davis had eight aces. Emily Kutch had 12 kills and Taylor Shook 11. Brooke Wieland had 32 assists, as well as nine kills. Beth Tingley had 30 digs. Rowland was especially impressed with Tingley’s dig total. “Because of the inconsistent play from Stockbridge, nothing was read just needed to react,” said Rowland. Davis added seven kills and a team-high three blocks. Kutch and Shook had two each. Sophomore Vanessa Reynhout also chipped in three kills. The Vikings will travel to the Cristi Curtis Memorial Tournament at Byron Center High School Saturday. the second half. Gavin Wilke netted the game winner for the host Panthers with 16:18 left to play, then less than two minutes later Jamal Bouabdellaoui added an insurance goal for Parchment. Parchment outshot Delton Kellogg 10-7 in the contest. With the loss, Delton moved on to the consolation bracket in the league tournament and faced Maple Valley Wednesday. Delton will finish off the league tournament at home Monday. Parchment only had four more shots when the two teams met last Wednesday, but scored three more goals. Parchment jumped out to a big lead early, getting goals from Brandon Linstead, Calvin Wilke and Mason Morsman in the first 25:30 of the contest. The teams of Panthers then traded goals before the break, with Lucas Hansen scoring twice for Delton, and Wilke and Brent Dziewicki responded for Parchment. Delton pulled within a goal at 6-5, as Zach Young and Keith Malachowski each scored in the first 11 minutes of the second half. Wilke finished off a hat-trick by scoring his third goal with 14:37 left in the game. 8th Grade Gold The Hastings eighth grade Gold football team defeated the Plainwell Trojans 38-8 Saturday night, moving its record on the season to 3-1. The Saxons put together two long drives early in the game capped with extra points to take a 16-0 lead on touchdown runs by running backs Billy Smith (134 yards on 16 carries) and Ethan Hart (52 yards on six carries). Paving the way for the Saxon running backs gaining 293 yards 44 carries were tackles Justin Voshell and Nick Larabee. Smith opened the second half with a 57-yard burst off left tackle for his second touchdown. Quarterback Calvin Cappon connected on a touchdown to end Skyler Brower on a fourthand-five at the Trojan goal-line and was 4-of5 passing for 66 yards total. Running back Devin Planck scored the final touchdown of the game, finishing with 59 yards rushing on ten carries. Defensively the Saxons were led by the inside linebacker Derek High’s five tackles and tackle Mike Moody’s four tackles. Defensive tackle Jason Coykendall added one tackle for loss as the Saxon defense combined for six tackles for loss on the day. SAXON WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE Complete online schedule at: www.hassk12.org THURSDAY, OCTOBER 4 9:00 am Girls Varsity Golf GR Catholic Central A Conference @ The Meadows 4:00 pm Boys Varsity Tennis Zeeland West HS H 4:00 pm Boys JV Soccer Thornapple-Kellogg HS H 4:15 pm Boys MS Cross Co Hastings HS H 4:15 pm Girls MS Cross Co Hastings HS H 4:30 pm Boys Fresh Football Thornapple-Kellogg HS H 5:00 pm Girls Fresh Volleyball Thornapple-Kellogg HS A 5:45 pm Boys Varsity Soccer Thornapple-Kellogg HS H 6:00 pm Girls JV Volleyball Thornapple-Kellogg HS A 6:30 pm Boys JV Football Thornapple-Kellogg HS H 6:30 pm Girls Varsity Swimming GR Catholic Central A 7:00 pm Girls Varsity Volleyball Thornapple-Kellogg HS A FRIDAY, OCTOBER 5 7:00 pm Boys Varsity Football Thornapple-Kellogg A SATURDAY, OCTOBER 6 8:00 am Girls Varsity Volleyball Hopkins Viking Inv. A 8:00 am Girls Fresh. Volleyball BC Lakeview A 8:30 am Girls JV Volleyball Parma Western A 8:30 am Boys Varsity Tennis Conf. @ S. Christian A 9:00 am Girls HS Cross Co. Portage Inv. A 9:00 am Boys HS Cross Co. Portage Inv. A 9:30 am Girls MS Cross Co. Allegan Inv. A 9:30 am Boys MS Cross Co. Allegan Inv. A MONDAY, OCTOBER 8 4:00 pm Boys JV Soccer GR Catholic Central A 4:15 pm Girls 7th “A” Volleyball Wayland A 4:15 pm Girls 8th “A” Volleyball Wayland A 5:30 pm Girls JV Volleyball Maple Valley A 5:30 pm Girls Fresh. Volleyball Maple Valley A 5:30 pm Girls 7th “B” Volleyball Wayland A HASTINGS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS Contact Nancy 945-2742 or hastingsathleticboosters@gmail.com to sponsor the schedule 5:30 pm Girls 8th “B” Volleyball Wayland 5:45 pm Boys Varsity Soccer GR CatholicCentral 7:00 pm Girls Varsity Volleyball Maple Valley TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9 4:00 pm Boys Varsity Tennis Kelloggsville TBA Girls Varsity Swimming Fremont WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 10 4:15 pm Girls 7th “B” Volleyball Wayland 4:15 pm Girls 8th “B” Volleyball Wyoming 5:15 pm Boys JV Soccer South Christian 5:30 pm Girls 7th “A” Volleyball Wyoming 5:30 pm Girls 8th “A” Volleyball Wyoming 6:45 pm Boys Varsity Soccer South Christian THURSDAY, OCTOBER 11 4:15 pm Girls MS Cross Co. Duncan Lake 4:15 pm Boys MS Cross co. Duncan Lake 4:30 pm Boys Fresh. Football GR Catholic Central 5:00 pm Girls Varsity Volleyball Gold Quad 5:00 pm Girls JV Volleyball Ottawa Hills (Quad) 5:00 pm Girls Fresh. Volleyball Gold Quad @ T-K 6:00 pm Girls Varsity Swimming G.R. Union 6:30 pm Boys JV Football GR Catholic Central A A A A H H H H H H H A A H H A A A H Times and dates subject to change Thanks to This Week’s Sponsor: Certified Financial Planning Randy Teegardin, CFP.® Hastings City Bank Trust and Investment Group 269-945-2401 150 W. Court St. Hastings, MI 49058 Investment opportunities include non deposit investments which are: Not FDIC Insured Not Bank Guaranteed May Lose Value 77571307 Delton Kellogg’s Zach Leinaar powers his way through a hole in the line during Friday night’s homecoming contest against Kalamazoo Christian. (Photo by Linda Boyce) by Brett Bremer Sports Editor A handful of mistakes were enough to hurt the Lions Friday night. An interception led to the first Parchment score, and couple of penalties late in the fourth quarter limited the Lions’ last gasp effort to tie up the ball game in a 30-24 loss to the visiting Panthers. Garrett Miller scored on a one-yard touchdown run, then ran in the two-point conversion to pull the Maple Valley varsity football team within six points with 7:54 left in the fourth quarter. Maple Valley’s defense held, and forced a Parchment punt. The Lions took over at their own 25-yard-line with about five minutes left. “When we got the three-and-out and got the ball with about five minutes to go I thought, ‘we are going to win this game,’” said Maple Valley head coach Brian Lincoln. The Lions though saw the drive stall because of a false start penalty and an intentional grounding penalty, and Parchment wound up taking over on downs and running out the final two minutes on the clock. Maple Valley had the first lead of the ball game, but not the last. Anthony Mahler stared the scoring, rushing in from 11 yards out with 8:31 left in the opening quarter. Austin Gonser ran in the two-point conversion for an 8-0 Lion lead. The next Lion possession ended in an interception though, and the Panthers didn’t have far to go to get to the end zone. Panther quarterback Tristan Jehnsen scored on a 14yard run with 4:45 left in the opening quarter, �Page 16 — Thursday, October 4, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Vikes a touchdown short of homecoming victory by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Moving the football wasn’t a problem for the Vikings Friday night. Protecting it was. Lakewood’s varsity football team turned the ball over five times, and still had a chance to celebrate homecoming with a victory, but Lakewood running back Doug Suntken races ahead with the football late in the fourth quarter Friday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) came up a touchdown short in a 34-28 loss to visiting Corunna in Capital Area Activities Conference White Division play. The Vikings struck first in the contest, getting a 17-yard touchdown run from quarterback Alex Potter and a Tyler Rush extra-point for a 7-0 lead in the opening quarter. The teams traded touchdowns throughout the first two periods and went into the half tied 21-21. Lakewood added one-yard touchdown run by Zach Kilbourn and a six-yard touchdown run by Doug Suntken. Rush was a perfect on his four extra-point tries throughout the night. Corunna answered Potter’s opening score with a 30-yard touchdown run by Brenden Welte, and a two-point conversion, then added six more points on a ten-yard touchdown run by John Fattal, and seven on an eight-yard touchdown run by Welte and an extra-point from Mikhail Myles. The Vikings tried to pick up the pace offensively, and head coach Nick Boucher said he liked the tempo his team played at - getting to run more than 30 offensive plays in the first half. Solid play up front kept the offense moving. “Guys were getting off the ball and getting it done for us at the line of scrimmage,” Boucher said. “That really helped.” He was especially pleased with his tackles, Brett Flessner, Austin Darling and Spencer Palmer who saw some time there as well. “They played a pretty good game tonight,” Boucher said, “probably the best I’ve seen them play all year. They were taking care of their assignments and taking care of their defensive ends.” Corunna took control of the game in the third quarter, getting a 30-yard touchdown Lakewood’s Lars Pyrzinski (56) gives chase as Corunna’s Joshua Fattal (2) races around the end during Friday night’s homecoming contest on Unity Field. (Photo by Perry Hardin) run from Fattal and a 30-yard touchdown pass from Grant Renwick to Myles. Renwick finished 5-of-7 passing for 119 yards, the one touchdown and one interception. Fattal led the Cavalier attack on the ground. He rushed for 55 yards and two scores on just six carries. The Cavaliers had 202 yards rushing as a team. Lakewood cut the Cavalier lead back six points when Potter scored on a one-yard run in the fourth quarter. The Vikings got a couple more chances with the football after that. Jeremey Innes made a great play to down a Viking punt deep inside Cavalier territory, which eventually turned into the Vikings getting the ball back for one last drive in good position to score, but that last drive ended about 25 yards from the goal. Potter rushed nine times for 44 yard sand two touchdowns for Lakewood, and completed 8-of-17 passes for 114 yards, but was picked off three times. Tyler Oesch had four receptions for 50 yards, and Rush added two for 47. While some things went wrong throwing the ball, Boucher was happy with the decision Potter was making in the running game. Kilbourn finished with 83 yards rushing on 22 carries. Suntken had 18 rushes for another 72 yards. Kilbourn led the Viking defense with six tackles and an interception. Palmer had seven tackles. Lakewood travels to take on league newcomer Stockbridge next Friday. Stockbridge is 1-5 after a 59-14 loss to Portland Friday. Both teams are 0-3 in the conference. Sailors capitalize on crossing passes against TK by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Sailors did a solid job of working outside in Thursday. South Christian’s varsity boys’ soccer team scored a 5-0 win over visiting Thornapple Kellogg, scoring its first four goals on crossing passing from the outside that were onetouched past Trojan keeper Andrew Rhoades. Rhoades did have an excellent night in net, making 14 saves, a number of them from point-blank range. The Trojan defense did do a decent job of stopping any dribble penetration by the Sailors in front of their goal, but couldn’t slow down the centering passing flying in from the outside. South Christian got its first goal in the eighth minute, when Jake Woltjer drove a low, hard centering pass from the left side that Cody Kok one-touched into the net. The Sailors followed that up about seven minutes later, with Kyle Doornbos lining a free kick from about 40 yards out that Zac Hulst ran onto and hit into the net. The Trojans got their first good scoring chance of the night soon after, with Eric Jachim feeding Tom Williamson in front of the Sailor goal for a shot that flew high and wide. The chances would be few and far between for the Trojans though. The managed just two shots on goal, both of which were scored second half goals for TK, with assists from Eric Jachim and Kylen Clark. Mike Priest put Catholic Central up 1-0 with the only goal of the first half. Mark Zakrajsek then scored twice in the second half to power the Cougars to the win. Thornapple Kellogg returns to action this afternoon (Oct. 4) at Hastings. Cougars keep their record perfect with shutout of TK by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity football team hung with the undefeated Catholic Central Cougars for a quarter. The Cougars though upped their record to 6-0 on the season, scoring a 45-0 win over the visiting Trojans at Grand Rapids Christian High School Friday in O-K Gold Conference action. After a scoreless first quarter, the Cougars tacked on 17 points before the half, then added three touchdowns in the third quarter and another in the fourth to score the victory. “I think they’re pretty darn good,” said Thornapple Kellogg head coach Chad Ruger. “They’ve just got a ton of talent. I’m unbelievably proud of our guys. They played very physical.” “It was just a tough football game against a tough football team.” The Trojan offense was never able to get much going. Aaron Ordway led TK in rushing with ten carries for 37 yards. Dan Dykstra and CJ Bronkema had 16 yards each on the ground. TK had 94 yards rushing total on 30 attempts. Trojan quarterback Grant Allison complet- ed just 5-of-15 passes for 33 yards. Nate Stahl had three catches for 12 yards. Ruger was pleased with some of the things he saw from his offense though. He liked Allison’s decision making and the way his backs ran hard and made good cuts. The Cougars just didn’t give them a lot of space. “We just couldn’t sustain a drive,” Ruger said. Bronkema and Cole Gahan had seven tackles each to lead the TK defense. Jeremy Bird had five tackles, including two sacks, while Kameryn Kidder added six tackles. Ruger said that Bird’s sacks and a big hit by Gahan on a bubble screen by the Cougars were played that inspired the defense during the course of the game. “They played inspired football. I know they’re hurting right now. They want to perform. They want to win. I get it,” said Ruger. “They were doing some things right.” The Trojans will hope to continue to do things right, and get some more positive results from those things when they return to action Friday at home against Hastings. TK is now 1-5 on the year. Hastings improved to 5-1 Friday night with a homecoming night victory over Ottawa Hills. 2493 W. STATE RD. (NEXT TO THE HASTINGS AIRPORT) Monday - Friday 8:00AM to 5:30PM, Saturdays by Appointment Phone: 269-945-2922 Fax: 269-945-0320 www.demingsautocollision.com WE’LL FIX YOUR VEHICLE AND MAYBE GIVE YOU A GAS CARD! For the month of October, every vehicle repair estimate will be eligible to win a $50 GAS CARD! 77571422 No purchase necessary. Just bring your car, truck or RV to Deming’s, get an estimate of repair and you’re entered. Drawing held 10/31/12. Need not be present to win. The Trojans’ Dalton Phillips races up field with the ball as South Christian’s Nick VanderHorst gives chase during the first half of Thursday’s O-K Gold Conference contest at the South Christian Sports Park. (Photo by Brett Bremer) saved by Sailor keeper Zac Medendorp. Marlon Bykerk converted on a penalty kick for the Sailors ten minutes into the second half. TK’s defense held from then until the final ten minutes. Bykerk earned an assist with just over seven minutes to play, chipping the ball from the right side to the center where it found the head of Kok and then the back of the net. Diego Arce finished off the scoring on one of the few times the TK defense gave up some space to a player with the ball in the middle of its end. He ripped a shot from the right off the far post and into the goal. The Trojans pushed Grand Rapids Catholic Central Tuesday, but fell 3-2 in conference action in Middleville. Michael Redman and Wesley Morgan Thornapple Kellogg’s Brett Buehler (21) and South Christian’s Jake Woltjer (7) fly at the ball as TK goalkeeper Andrew Rhoades comes in to grab it Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Former Gold foe wins at Don Baese Invite Forest Hills Eastern has moved out of the O-K Gold Conference, but the Saxon and Trojans got to chase around the Hawks Saturday. Forest Hills Eastern put its top five runners in the top 23 to win the White Division at Saturday’s Don Baese Invitational hosted by Carson City-Crystal. The Hawks’ girls’ team finished with just 70 points. Grand Rapids Christian, led by individual champion Julia Bos, was second with 82 points, followed by Cedar Springs 96, Forest Hills Northern 133, Davison 152, Thornapple Kellogg 156, Ionia 173, Forest Hills Central 197, St. Johns 200, Owosso 284, Charlotte 303, Lowell 337, Hastings 345 and Greenville 367. Bos took the individual title in 17 minutes 37.3 seconds. Cedar Springs had the next two finishers, Kenzie Weiler (18:12.7) and Katie Weiler (18:46.7). Forest Hills’ Eastern’s Clara Cullen was fourth in 18:56.8. The Saxons were led by Trista Straube’s eighth-place time of 19:27.0. Thornapple Kellogg had two girls in the top 20. Melissa Winchester led her team with a 14th-place time of 19:54.4, while Olivia Lamberg was 18th in 20:05.0. TK also had Janie Noah 31st in 20:07.3, Shelbi Shepherd 44th in 21:29.6 and Bryn Beyer 49th in 21:44.0. Hastings’ number two was Maria Palacio, who was 79th in 23:46.1. The Saxon team also had Haley Perkins 83rd in 24:11.6, Kaitlin Allan 84th in 24:13.2 and Olivia Rose 91st in 25:26.2. Mason had the fastest top three, but Saginaw Heritage had the fastest team in the White Division boys’ race. Cedar Springs Connor Mora was the individual champion in 15:31.4. Mason then had Tanner Hinkle second in 15:41.3, Mason VanDyke third in 15:56.7 and Alex Whitmer fourth in 16:10.1. The Bulldogs next two runners finished 40th and 50th though. Saginaw Heritage was led by Nate Cruz’s fifth-place time of 16:12.5. He had teammates finish 12th, 13th, 19th and 27th behind him to get the team title. Heritage finished with just 76 points. Mason was second with 99, followed by Cedar Springs 107, Forest Hills Northern 129, Grand Rapids Christian 133, Ionia 138, St. Johns 219, Owosso 229, Big Rapids 244, Forest Hills Central 245, Forest Hills Eastern 245, Thornapple Kellogg 316, Lowell 392, Hastings 395, Greenville 407, Mount Pleasant 307 and Charlotte 415. Ronnie Collins paced the Hastings’ pack, finishing 55th in 17:51.7. Chance Miller and Jake Miller weren’t far behind. Chance was 64th in 18:10.2 and Jake 69th in 18:20.8. Behind that trio, the Saxons had Brandon Gray 103rd in 20:16.4 and Jacob Pratt 104th in 20:19.4. Thornapple Kellogg’s David Walter was 11th in 16:39.8. Behind him for the Trojan team, Conor Leach was 61st in 18:07.7, Daniel Vannette 72nd in 18:26.6, Austin Lavire 78th in 18:51.2 and Wyatt Deleeuw 94th in 19:41.3. Last Wednesday, the O-K Gold Conference met in Hastings for a set of league duals. The Saxon teams both fell to South Christian. The Hastings girls fell 18-45. Straube led the Saxons in 20:50, followed by Rose in 24:38, Palacio in 25:18, Perkins in 25:23 and Allan in 25:32. Hastings’ boys fell 23-38 to the Sailors. Collins led his team in 19:04, with Jake Miller finishing in 19:30, Chance Miller in 21:10, Garrett Bowers in 21:11 and Pratt in 21:16. South Christian was set to host league duals last night in the O-K Gold. Hastings will be back in action at another huge invitational Saturday, the Portage Invitational. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 4, 2012 — Page 17 Sun doesn’t hang around to wait for a goal at LHS by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The improvements to the new soccer field at Lakewood High School have been impressive - the netting behind the north goal, bleachers, the flag pole in the north east corner, benches/shelters for the players, the new scoreboard. The red glow from the scoreboard wasn’t bright enough to allow for the finish of Monday’s Capital Area Activities Conference White Division contest between the varsity Vikings and visiting Corunna. The game ended in a 0-0 tie when the officials called the game due to darkness with 4 minutes and 48 seconds left in the second ten minute overtime session. “About ten years down the road,” chuckled Lakewood head coach James LeVeque about plans for lighting at the field. “It’s a little Hastings’ Yara van Spanje sets the ball up during her team’s victory over Ottawa Hills Thursday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Lakewood midfielder Joey Reed (13) turns up field with the ball as Corunna’s Garrett Hurley (15) begins to give chase Monday evening at Lakewood High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Lakewood’s Drew Durkee (right) fights off Corunna’s Spencer Napier for possession of the ball during the first half Monday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) ways away. No plans yet, but eventually it would be good.” The Vikings and Cavaliers weren’t just even on the field, they finish even in the league standings with 1-3-1 records. Lakewood carried the play for much of the first three quarters of the contest, getting the best chances at the net. The Cavaliers had a few counterattacks here and there. Dylan Durkee fired a shot wide from the top of the 18 about eight minutes into the contest. With about 13 and a half minutes left in the first half Viking midfielder Kyler Knapp raced in on goal, but had his shot fly wide. One of the Vikings best opportunities of the second half came with about 16 minutes remaining when Drew Durkee, who had an outstanding game in the midfield for the Vikings, raced in on the Cavalier net alone and ripped a shot that flew just wide, clanging off the post on the back of the goal and into the side netting. In the final 15 minutes of regulation Corunna picked up its play. The Cavaliers’ Brody Hall had a header fly just wide of the goal, off a nice crossing pas from teammate Jordan Young. Lakewood keeper Brody Forman had to make a nice sliding stop on a shot by Young a couple minutes later, after a strong charge up the right side by the Corunna attacker. “The shots were pretty darn even. I don’t think really either team had many shots on goal to be honest. I don’t think the goalies touched the ball a whole ton, at least weren’t challenged a whole ton,” said LeVeque. “It was a good game. We played real physical. Pretty solid defense mostly.” Lakewood is now 4-7-3 overall this season. They’ll begin CAAC Cup play tonight. The Saxons’ Taylor Warner blasts an attack towards the Bengals during Thursday’s O-K Gold Conference contest in Hastings. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Saxon volleyball team beats Ottawa Hills in three sets The Hastings varsity volleyball team scored its 20th victory of the season Thursday, and its first in O-K Gold Conference action. The Saxons topped visiting Ottawa Hills 25-8, 25-18, 25-6. Rachel Quillen led the Saxon attack with six kills. Ally Owen had a big night at the service line with 12 aces. Erin Goggins finished the evening with nine assists for the Saxons. Hastings will go for league victory number two when it travels to Middleville to take on Thornapple Kellogg tonight (Oct. 4). Saturday, the Saxons will head to the Hopkins Invitational, then Monday they travel to Maple Valley to take on the Lions. Maple Valley’s varsity volleyball team will be putting on a Dig-Pink fundraising event when it plays host to the Saxons. Both teams participate in the Hastings Relay for Life each year, and are now putting together this event as another way to help raise funds for the fight against cancer. Community members are invited to attend and help support the cause. The teams are also inviting all cancer survivors in the area to join in the festivities and be honored during their celebration service. Valley volleyball falls to Pennfield in league contest Maple Valley’s Kandys Larsen hits an attack during her team’s KVA contest with Pennfield Wednesday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) 07610771 Maple Valley’s varsity volleyball team is 0-5 in the Kalamazoo Valley Association after a 3-0 loss to visiting Pennfield Wednesday. The Panthers won by the scores of 25-21, 25-18, 25-12. Olivia Ricketts had six kills to lead the Lion attack, while Loisa Lorino Mora led the defensive effort with four blocks and ten digs. Hadley Joppie chipped in five kills for the Lions, and Timara Burd had three to go along with her ten assists. The Lions were scheduled to face Schoolcraft in KVA action last night, and will be back in action in the league Wednesday when they host Kalamazoo Christian. Maple Valley will be putting on a Dig-Pink fundraising event when it plays host to Hastings Monday in a non-conference maatch. �Page 18 — Thursday, October 4, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Slaughter hauls ball through Ottawa Hills’ defense by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Saxon sophomore fullback Jason Slaughter had about a 75-yard touchdown run called back because of a penalty on the first play of Friday’s homecoming contest with Ottawa Hills. He got those yards and those points back on one play in the second quarter, and kept running wild all evening long. Slaughter scored on a 75-yard run in the second quarter, then tacked on the two-point conversion run himself for an 8-0 Hastings lead. The Saxons led the rest of the night, winning 36-12 inside Baum Stadium at Johnson Field. That was Slaughter’s only score, but he carried the load - rushing 23 times for 274 yards. “He’s been up all year. He’s worked hard in practice and touched the ball five or six times a game all year. This was his big break-out,” said Hastings head coach Fred Rademacher. “They gave us the trap a little bit more than we’ve had it in the past. He had the hot hand. You know me, I’m going to keep giving it to the guy with the hot hand. He earned it.” The Saxons earned the win to improve to 51, and 2-0 in the O-K Gold Conference. They’ll travel to Middleville to take on the Hastings quarterback Chase Huisman (10) turns back to run the Saxons’ Wing-T offense during Friday night’s homecoming contest against Ottawa Hills inside Baum Stadium at Johnson Field. (Photo by Dan Goggins) Trojans Friday night. Ottawa Hills pulled within two points on a 70-yard touchdown pass from Tevaughn Hill to Sam Beal later in the second quarter, but the Saxons scored the first 21 points of the second half to take command of the football game. Stephen Shaffer scored on a one-yard touchdown run, Logan Clements ran in the two-point conversion, then Hastings later added a 19-yard fumble return by Michael Eastman for a touchdown in the third quarter. Shaffer scored the first points of the fourth quarter for Hastings on a five-yard touchdown run, and a added the two-point run too. Hastings finished its scoring with a twoyard touchdown run by Ben Schilz. The Saxons got all 461 yards of their offense on the ground. Shaffer added 21 rushes for 134 yards. Mitchel Brooks added 31 yards on two carries. In between those two Saxon touchdowns in the fourth quarter, the Bengals added a oneyard touchdown run by Hill. Ottawa Hills finished with 377 yards of offense, 280 of that via the pass. Hill completed 15-of-27 attempts for those 280 yards. Beal finished with four receptions for 133 yards. Shanti Bowman led the Bengals on the ground, rushing ten times for 41 yards. While the Bengals moved the ball between the twenties, Rademacher was pleased with the way his defense limited big plays to the one long TD pass in the first half. Eastman had the fumble return for a TD, and had a team-high five tackles. Brooks also recovered a Bengal fumble. Miguel Arjona and Jake Swartz each intercepted a Hill pass. Rademacher said the key to the defensive effort was being on assignment all evening long. Hastings soccer team shuts out Ottawa Hills and Wayland Hastings defensive back Miguel Arjona leaps up to intercept a pass during Friday night’s homecoming contest against Ottawa Hills. (Photo by Dan Goggins) Saxon running back Stephen Shaffer races around the right side during Friday’s contest against Ottawa Hills. (Photo by Dan Goggins) Hastings’ Ian Beck heads the ball as Wayland’s Josh Armstrong comes crashing in during Thursday’s O-K Gold Conference contest on Pierce Field in Hastings. (Photo by Perry Hardin) 77571426 The Saxons have scored back-to-back shut outs in O-K Gold Conference play. Hastings improved to 5-2 in the league with a 14-0 victory at Ottawa Hills Tuesday evening. There were 14 difference goal-scorers for Hastings: Carson Williams, Max Clark, Ian Beck, Ben Kolanowski, Matt Johnson, Adam Hyrsl, Tanner Roderick, David White, Cody Newton, Chris Feldpausch, Andrew Cybulski, Brody Madden, Alex Cherry, and Stephen Kendall. Assists came from Roderick, Kolanowski, Hyrsl, Feldpausch, and Mitch Philley. Hastings needed just 16 shots on goal to score those 14 goals. Things were tougher Thursday, but the Saxons got the job done again. Travis Matthews earned his fifth shut out of the season in goal in a 2-0 victory over the visiting Wayland Wildcats. Hastings got all the goals it would need in the first half. Beck scored off an assist from Kolanowski, then Clark added a second goal off an assist from Matt Johnson. Saxon head coach Ben Conklin said that his team played great defense in all areas of the field to hold on for the victory. The Saxons return to action at home this afternoon (Oct. 4) against Thornapple Kellogg, then will close out the O-K Gold Conference season next week against the two teams that beat them the first trip through the league slate. The Saxons visit Grand Rapids Catholic Central Tuesday and host South Christian Thursday to end the regular season. Hastings’ Brody Madden (left) and Cody Newton (right) try and squeeze Wayland’s Phil Hager out of the play during Thursday’s O-K Gold Conference contest on Pierce Field. (Photo by Perry Hardin) � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-10-11.pdf 2b8abe71801d41d959c007b05764b2f0 PDF Text Text 400 guns seized near Bellevue County maintains fiscal discipline Spikers team up to raise nearly $2,000 See Story on Page 15 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 18 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 40 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, October 11, 2012 Leadership his greatest gift, say those who remember Dick Guenther NEWS BRIEFS HHS cheer team going neon Friday A two-week drive to raise money for a chosen cause will culminate with Friday’s Saxon varsity football game against undefeated Grand Rapids Catholic Central. The second annual Neon Black-Out We Care celebration will feature complimentary hot dogs as well as face, hair or nail painting in neon by the Hastings cheer teams. Students have been raising money during a two-week polling competition to determine the recipient of funds raised through a penny war and sales of “We Care” logo T-shirts. In the field are Green Gables, MagnumCare nursing home, the Barry County Animal Shelter and Big Brothers Big Sisters. The winner will be announced between the first and second quarters, along with a surprise giveaway. Game time is 7 p.m., admission is $5. CASA run/walk deadline nears Early registration for the Saturday, Oct. 27, CASA Superhero 5K run/walk and kids fun run in downtown Hastings is Oct. 15. Participant cost is $20 through Oct. 15, and $25 thereafter. Children under the age of 12 may register free of charge. T-shirts are guaranteed for participants and volunteers registered by Oct. 15 and then will be available on a first-come, first-served basis through race day. Registration can be completed online, www.runningfoundation.com/Superherorun .html, or by calling the CASA office, 517543-7500, ext. 1648. Free workshop will help those ready to quit smoking A smoking-cessation workshop is planned for Wednesday, Oct. 17, from noon to 2 p.m. at the Barry-Eaton District Health Department, 330 W. Woodlawn Ave., Hastings “If you are trying to quit, have quit in the past and not had success, or are thinking of quitting, then this workshop may be for you,” said Jill Sambaer, health educator for the Barry-Eaton District Health Department. Sambaer said this no-cost program is a no-pressure, one-time workshop that shows individuals how they can be smoke-free. “We give you the tools you will need to be successful when you are ready to quit smoking,” she said. RSVP by calling 517-541-2610 or email jsambaer@bedhd.org. Included in the program will be helpful tips, information on medications, strategies and resources to help. Call the Michigan Tobacco Quitline for free information and help, tobacco treatment referrals or for round-the-clock support, 800-QUIT-NOW. Exploring the Thornapple to be topic of program Joanne Barnard, executive director of the Barry Conservation District, will share experiences of the 2012 summer journey down the Thornapple River from Potterville to Cascade with the Institute for Learning in Retirement. The program will be Thursday, Oct. 18, from noon to 2 p.m. at the Kellogg Community College Campus on West Gun See NEWS BRIEFS, continued on page 8 by Doug VanderLaan Editor Back when they made school superintendents out of concrete, Dick Guenther stood as steady and strong as an Atlantic coast lighthouse. “He was a straight shooter, he wasn’t going to slice or dice or pass the buck on to someone else,” recalls former Hastings High school teacher and fellow U.S. Marine Larry Gibson. “In the Marines, honor was your word, and if you had Dick Guenther’s word, it was the truth.” Guenther, who served the Hastings community as its school superintendent from 1961 to 1982, died Sept. 20 at the age of 87. Visitation and a memorial service have been scheduled for Friday and Saturday to coordinate with what would have been Guenther’s birthday Oct. 13. The weekend observances will be attended by a host of family, friends and colleagues who will celebrate not only the life Guenther lived, but also the profound definition he provided to the position of superintendent of schools in any community in America. Friends and admirers concede that today’s political environment is a world away from what once was, but they all wistfully wonder what public education could be today if leaders like Dick Guenther were still at the helm. The mark the man left — on his community, on his profession and on anyone lucky enough to have crossed his path — is an indelible print that is truly a paradigm for the power that passion and compassion can produce. The son of an Upper Peninsula mining superintendent, Guenther was raised with a natural sensitivity for the less fortunate, especially those with severe mental, physical or emotional impairments. “My first contact with him was in the late 1950s when he was just coming off an important study that he directed for the Kellogg Foundation,” recalls Tom Howard, 78, a retired Michigan Department of Education administrator, now living in Grand Haven. “This was a landmark study because it showed that trainable and severely impaired children could be served in the community. “There were state homes and training schools filled with the severely impaired because there was nothing for them in the community, but, because of Dick’s study, those kids all came back to group homes or surrogate parents and communities that learned how to serve them. Now, today, none of those institutions exist — kids no longer need to be warehoused.” The study was a breakthrough for what became the special education movement in public education. For Dick Guenther, who had devoted his early career to the less fortunate and who never forgot them, the Kellogg Foundation study also became what those closest to the story say was a testament to his See GUENTHER, page 9 Hastings teachers head to factfinding with school board by Doug VanderLaan Editor An inability to agree on the depth and the length of a needed pay cut for teachers has brought the Hastings Board of Education and its teachers union to an impasse. The two sides are in the second year of a two-year contract that allowed for a “reopener” on wages only. The district had appealed to the union for relief on salary obligations due to a current school year budget which has the district operating with a deficit of between $600,000 and $800,000. The two sides had been working with a state mediator since August and reached a tentative agreement for a permanent 6 percent pay cut starting with the new school year. However, the agreement was not ratified by the entire Hastings Education Association membership, and the two sides will now enter non-binding factfinding with a state judge. “We made a good faith effort to resolve this contract and we’re sorry it was unsuccessful,” said Board President Kevin Beck in a news release issued late Wednesday. “Given that the district has a deficit budget and is obligated by the state to eliminate it, this really puts us in a tough position. We want to keep our district on a sound financial footing.” However, teacher representative Wendi McCausey says the tentative agreement would have provided just that. “We have nothing to hide because we believe we’re 100 percent in the right,” said McCausey. “We have a disagreement with the means of making up the difference.” McCausey said the teachers association is willing to absorb a 6 percent pay reduction — but only for the final year of the current twoyear contract. The board’s insistence that the cut be “off schedule” would make the 6 percent cut permanent. “ A 6 percent cut takes us back to 2006,” pointed out McCausey, “and in our minds, it would take that long to get it back. We know the seriousness of the budget deficit, and we want to help, but now the argument that the board is making is pushing us to go to mediation and to factfinding. “We said we’d give the 6 percent, but all that’s left on the contract is one year. If they come back and we still have big hole next year, we’ll negotiate,” she added. “We’re not completely unreasonable like the board or the general public thinks we are.” The fact-finding process is expected to begin immediately to be followed by a 60-day “cooling off” period. If the two sides cannot come to an agreement by then, the school district will be allowed to impose its final offer — an action that has taken place in several Michigan school districts. “They’re willing to take a pay cut, but it’s not large enough or long enough,” said board negotiator and consultant Tom White. “They have a lack of trust in the district’s finances and I understand that, but we’ve righted the ship.” White and Hastings Superintendent Todd Geerlings point out that, by their projections, a 6 percent salary cut could eliminate the current deficit and could even lead to a 4 percent fund balance, a cushion that, Geerlings said, is not as large as auditors recommend but would at least ease the day-to-day anxiety. “Right now we’re worried about paper and pencil budgets,” said Geerlings. “If we had a boiler go out, we’d have no money for it. We’d have to take it out of the general fund.” And, with pressures of programs like Schools of Choice, charter movements and the natural decline of the school age population statewide, there’s no more room to cut. “We want to talk and work this out,” maintained Geerlings, “but the cuts need to be real and there needs to be permanent change.” Rescuers honored by Hastings City Council by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer After a brief grand opening ceremony for the Michigan Avenue bridge earlier in the evening, the Hastings City Council recognized the 17 people, including 911 dispatchers, EMTs, paramedics and a police officer, who helped rescue a worker who nearly lost his life during the construction of the bridge Shortly before noon Friday, Aug. 31, Miguel Romarez stepped into a deep hole in the bed of the Thornapple River which he had entered to retrieve some painting equipment under the new Michigan Avenue bridge. The hip waders worn by the 57-year old Lansing man filled with water, and he was pulled under and downstream. After five minutes under water, his lifeless body was pulled out of the river about 100 feet downstream, according to Hastings Police Chief Jerry Sarver. “I gotta tell you, when Miguel went in the water and we knew he had been under for five minutes or so I said, ‘That’s guy is just an organ donor,’” said Sarver, who spoke briefly after Hastings Mayor Pro-tem Brenda McNabb-Stange presented the rescue workers with a proclamation recognizing them for saving Romarez’s life. “If he was 7 or 8 years See RESCUE, page 2 Bridge construction worker Miguel Romarez of Lansing (front, center) who was pulled from the Thornapple River and resuscitated Aug. 31, is joined by his rescuers (front row, from left) Rob Neil, Hastings Fire Department; Bill Belson, Hastings Fire Department; Hastings Fire Chief Roger Caris; Joe Huebner, Hastings Fire Department; Hastings Assistant Fire Chief Rick Krouse; (back row) Joe Robertson, Hastings Fire Department; Rick Hilton, Nashville Fire Department; Cory Lutig, Mercy Ambulance; Cleon Brown, Hastings Police Department; and Bruce, Coenen, Hastings Fire Department. Absent from photo are: Lani Forbes, Freeport Fire Department; Chris Komondy, Mercy Ambulance; Larry Warren, and Bill Dooley, Hastings Fire Department; Joe Kramer, Allen Bross, and Dave Camburn, Barry County Central Dispatch. �Page 2 — Thursday, October 11, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Politics dominates routine county board agenda by Doug VanderLaan Editor Politics put some life into a routine meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners Tuesday. Amidst approvals of an Oct. 23 public hearing for the 2013 proposed budget, the renaming of a local creek and preserved land acceptance, technical adjustments to the county retirement and pension plans and reorganization of a regional planning council, Commissioner Jeff VanNortwick leveled a challenge at the man who defeated him for the District 7 seat in the Aug. 12 primary. “My opposition is here, and I respectfully request that Jim Dull and I perhaps have an open debate in the county on District 7 issues,” challenged VanNortwick during a comment period for commissioners. VanNortwick announced last week that he would be a write-in candidate in the Nov. 6 general election for the seat that he lost to Dull in the primary, 538-445. Dull, who said he was in attendance at Tuesday’s meeting on VanNortwick’s “invitation,” following remarks by VanNortwick in the Oct. 4 Banner that Dull has been “absent” at meetings of county and township boards and committees, quickly accepted the challenge. An out-of-state family commitment won’t allow an immediate debate, said Dull in remarks following the meeting, but he promised that it would be scheduled soon because “people need to know.” Though he’d like to have it in Assyria Township, Dull said VanNortwick prefers Johnstown Township, which would be acceptable to him. “He believes in what he’s doing 110 percent,” said Dull, in complimenting VanNortwick but, perhaps, also laying down a future debate issue; “I believe it’s misplaced. In every election, he barely hangs on because people are unhappy. I just think there are more people unhappy [with him].” In his public comments to the board following VanNortwick’s debate challenge, Dull was even more forthright about issues that differentiate the two. Dull called attention to VanNortwick’s comments at the Oct. 2 board meeting in which he questioned County Undersheriff Bob Baker about concerns county residents should have regarding ties that Sheriff Dar Leaf has to a nationwide sheriff’s organization that positions county sheriffs as the “last line of defense against an overreaching federal government.” “I believe he [Leaf] is right,” Dull began. “This needs to be brought to the front. The federal government is flexing their muscle on trying to control people ... and he is concerned about people’s rights to keep their guns. People need to contact Dar to see what he needs to help him along with this, to contact the Legislature and make sure the federal government doesn’t start pushing to make us give up our guns. “I believe everybody in Barry County likes their guns, and we don’t want anybody infringing on our rights. I just thought I’d bring that forward.” Though he may have a differing view, VanNortwick made it clear in a telephone interview following Tuesday’s meeting that Dull’s perspective should be welcomed. “It’s part of democracy,” summed up VanNortwick. “There’s a disturbing side of it to a lot of people, but, at the same time, it’s one of those inalienable rights. That’s the part we have to keep transparent, because if we don’t, it feels subversive. “The transparency needs to stay there, too, from Dar all the way down. I don’t know that that [federal government influence] is such a strange revelation. When we don’t talk about it seems alarming, but, when we do, it seems more manageable.” In other business, county commissioners: • Approved a proposal to the U.S. Board on Geographic Names to name an un-named Home-schooled students taking classes at Hastings schools Hastings Area Schools’ new home school partnership program is off to a modest, yet successful, start according to Hastings High School Athletic Director Mike Goggins and Hastings Area Schools Superintendent Todd Geerlings. During the October work session of the board of education, Goggins reported that the program, which the board approved in July, now has 63 part-time students enrolled in four none-core classes, which equals approximately three full-time equivalent students and an approximate $21,000 in state per-pupil funding. “At this point, we anticipate doing a little better than breaking even,” said Geerlings. “But, because two of the four [classes] are at the [Community Education and Recreation Center], we can direct some [per-pupil funds] back to that site to help cover some of the expenses there.” Goggins said the program offers a music class, with about 11 students enrolled, for first through fourth grade students and art class for first through fourth grade students with eight students enrolled at Star Elementary. The other two classes — a physical education course focusing on field and court games, such as soccer and basketball, has about 20 second through sixth grade students enrolled; and, a swim and water safety class, with 24 students enrolled, are held at the Community Education and Recreation Center. “So far, all the comments from our new families that are participating have all been very positive, and they are hoping that we can develop this into a larger group for their community and expand some of the programing as time goes on,” said Goggins. “I see some benefits because we have 45 kids or so that normally would not have any exposure to Hastings Area Schools, in our schools on limited basis, and they are seeing public schools in a light that they may not have thought of. “It’s a nice start,” he said. ‘It’s modest, but it’s very workable.” tributary of Glass Creek in Hope Township as Tyden Creek. • Accepted a Farmland and Open Space Preservation Program property from Stephen DeGroote of Carlton Township. • Scheduled a public hearing on the proposed 2013 budget for Tuesday, Oct. 23, at 9 a.m. to be held in the commission chambers at the county courthouse. • Approved the following transfers and dis- bursements: $34,803 in claims; $6,836,186 in pre-paid invoices; and $7,775 in commissioners payroll. • Approved a resolution to reorganize the Southcentral Michigan Planning Council with Commissioner Ben Geiger as a designee. • Approved two revisions to the Municipal Employees Retirement System, the first to increase the employee contribution for elected officials to the MERS defined-benefit plan by 2.5 percent, and the second, a similar increase for department heads. • Received a proclamation display from Diane Dalm of the Disability Network of Southwest Michigan recognizing the county’s contribution to the organization. The county board meets next in a Committee of the Whole session Tuesday, Oct. 16, at 9 a.m. in the meeting chambers at the Barry County Courthouse. RESCUE, continued from page 1 A small group, comprised mainly of city officials, employees and their families, gathers near the new Michigan Avenue bridge for a brief ceremony prior to the Hastings City Council meeting Monday evening. (Photo courtesy of Rose Hendershot). old, then maybe a cold-water recovery might be possible; but, he was under for at least five minutes. We didn’t give him much hope; we gave him a lot of prayers, and he’s a testimony today to the fine work that people do out there. These guys didn’t hold back. They jumped in the water and started working on this guy’s chest.” Emergency life support was performed on Romarez for about 20 minutes at the scene prior to him being transported to a landing zone at Hastings Middle School, where an emergency medical helicopter picked him up and flew him to the hospital. Prior to takeoff, Romarez was reported to be breathing on his own. Romarez was at the council meeting Monday evening and, as his beaming wife looked on, he presented a thank-you card and shook hands with each of his rescuers after they received their citation from McNabbStange. In other business, the council: • Heard a report from Department of Public Service Director Tim Girrbach who said during a progress meeting regarding the North Broadway project, with the Michigan Department of Transportation and the contractor, he learned work would soon begin on Broadway south of State Street and Green Street east of Broadway to Hanover Street. He said the contractor intends to work through November and December, weather permitting. Any work unfinished by the end of December will be completed in the spring. • Accepted the resignation of 1st Ward council member Waylon Black, who gave up his post due to scheduling conflicts with his new job. The council has 45 days from Black’s resignation date of Sept. 28 to appoint someone to fill the vacancy or a special election must be held to fill the post. Any 1st Ward residents who are interested in serving on the council are asked to submit applications at city hall. • Awarded a bid to Landmark Trucking for 2012 street trees in an amount not to exceed $17,190 for 90 trees, at $191 per tree. Thornapple Players presenting Shakespeare play this weekend The elves and fairies of “A Midsummer’s Night Dream” include (front, from left) Griffin Seeber, Cameron Seeber, Jameson Riordan, Sage Winters, Amy Forsburg, (second row) Sierra Bentti, Steve Youngs, Kathy Conklin, Hayden Thompson, (back) Camille Van Dien, Michael Moray and Natalie Anderson. 77569251 The Thornapple Players will present Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” at Leason Sharpe Hall Oct. 11 to 13 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 14 at 2 p.m. A special dress rehearsal Thursday, Oct. 10, at 7 p.m. is open to the public at a reduced cost. Believed to have been written between 1590 and 1596, the play portrays the events surrounding the marriage of the Duke of Athens, Theseus, and the Queen of the Amazons, Hippolyta. These include the adventures of four young Athenian lovers and a group of six amateur actors, who are controlled and manipulated by the fairies who inhabit the forest in which most of the play is set. “It has been a pleasure to work on this show,” said Norma Jean Acker. “The cast has worked well together and amazingly hard. They were up to the challenge of presenting our first Shakespearean play since the night they came to audition. This is a funny and beautifully written play. I think the audience will truly enjoy it. It is definitely the thing to see for an evening of laughter. “We are continuing to grow in every way as a group. I hope people will take the opportunity to come and see how much.” The cast includes Frank White, Erin Merritt, Val Van Meter, Mike Kasinsky, Danielle Brower, Kathleen Welch, Eric Anderson, Jeff Kniaz, Steve Youngs, Kathy Conklin, Michael Moray, Sage Winters, Sierra Bentti, Hayden Thompson, Amy Forsburg, Natalie Anderson, Camille Van Dien, Jameson Riordan, Lucas Richards, Griffin Seeber, Cameron Seeber, Shirlee Holston, Doug Acker, Sarah Eddy, Angie Greenfield, Michelle Pappas, Carol Satterly, Carol Swanson and Don Hampton Tickets are available at the door and at Progressive Graphics. Adult admission is $8, with tickets for seniors (age 62 and up) and students for $6. Michael Moray as Puck (center) shares tales of his exploits with two fairies Natalie Anderson (left) and Camille VanDien. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 11, 2012 — Page 3 Bird migration signals return of CraneFest this weekend The Thornapple Arts Council and Barry County Transit team up to transport 30 people to Grand Rapids ArtPrize on three consecutive Saturdays. The last group, shown here Oct. 6, dodged raindrops and the chill as they toured downtown Grand Rapids from the comfort of their bus. Local residents tour ArtPrize HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, Oct. 11 — Movie Memories celebrates things that go bump in the night with “The Ghost Breakers” starring Bob Hope, 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 12 — pre-school story time enjoys stories about hiccups, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; Friends of the Library used book sale, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 13 — Friends of the Library used book sale, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, Oct. 15 — library board of directors meets, 4 to 6 p.m.; computer class tries to figure out “Where’s My Stuff,” 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 16 — toddler story time enjoys stories about “who’s in the zoo,” 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30; open chess club, 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 17 — teen advisory board meets, 3:45 to 4:45 p.m. Call the library for more information about any of the above, 269-945-4263. Cranes scour a corn field, seeking out leftover grain. (Photo by Tom Hodgson) It is time to celebrate Michigan’s tallest bird, the sandhill crane, as it prepares for its migration southward. Michigan Audubon invites everyone to the eighteenth annual CraneFest, Oct. 13 and 14, at the Battle Creek Kiwanis Youth Area. The festivities start at noon each day and last until sunset, around 7 p.m. The event is free and will feature several different activities such as a wildlife art show, nature walks, bird viewings and interactive activities with native wildlife species. The event is hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Battle Creek and the $3 parking fee goes to support the Kiwanis Club’s service projects. The cranes roost nightly in Big Marsh Lake, located in Michigan Audubon’s Bernard W. Baker Sanctuary which is overlooked by the Kiwanis Youth Area and provides viewing of the cranes’ fly-in. The fly-in begins slowly around 4, with the largest numbers of cranes observed between 5 p.m. and dusk. The festival also provides a wildlife art show with more than 20 artists in attendance displaying and selling their work. Also on display will be artwork cranes created by students at Bellevue High School. This year the festival will be visited by two well-known birders: The Big Year’s Greg Miller, who successfully observed more than 700 species of birds in one year, and Pamela Rasmussen, Ph.D., American ornithologist and expert on Asian birds. Michigan Audubon has documented 10,000 sandhill cranes passing through during the birds migratory season, which runs from about Labor Day through late December, said Mallory King, marketing and communications coordinator. “The vast majority leave when weather turns and they run out of food, but as long as there is food, they will stay,” she said. The cranes travel from the Upper Peninsula down to Tennessee, Georgia and northern Florida to spend the winter. “An interesting side note,” she added, “they do not like to fly over large bodies of water, so you will find that a good amount of cranes from the UP fly all the way around Wisconsin. They are funning and interesting creatures.” Other activities available at CraneFest will include guided nature walks, educational presentations and hands-on activities provided by local environmental groups. Live birds of prey will be exhibited by the Michigan Hawking Club both days. Michigan native reptiles and amphibians will be on display by Nature Discovery Saturday, and live creatures of the night will be exhibited by the Howell Nature Center Sunday. The festival site is south of Bellevue on 15 Mile Road between T Drive North and Junction Road. Visit the event website at www.cranefest.org for additional information and directions. Lane Cooper of Freeport and his ArtPrize entry “Dining on the Grand” were at the Amway Grand Plaza. Lane used 403 spoons minus handles to cover the framework, 15 knife blades for the tail and 235 forks to simulate water cascading over the falls. New Car Loan 1.99% Interest 2.285% APR* We'll put you in the driver’s seat with a great loan rate! *Annual percentage rate. Car loan is subject to credit review and approval. Rates are subject to change. A Hastings City Bank checking account with direct deposit and automatic loan payment is required to obtain this rate. Maximum term is 66 months for new (untitled) vehicles only. Example: a $25,000 loan at 2.285% APR would have 66 monthly payments of $400.22. Contact any Hastings City Bank lender for other rates and terms available. 1971 Hastings graduate Tom Kaufmann talks about his “Junk Yard Music Box.” Kaufmann now lives in the Traverse City area. The Junkyard Music Box is a humanpowered, automated musical sculpture, made of recycled materials. The public is able to turn a crank that rotates an old fuel tank. The piece also includes instruments made from granite countertop, open-end wrenches and brake drums. 1-888-422-2280 77571628 �Page 4 — Thursday, October 11, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? County gets high marks for accountability The sun sets amid haze hanging over the Otis Farm Bird Sanctuary in Rutland Township. We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Do you know? Do you recognize anyone in this photo? If the man on the left looked like Monty Hall, this might pass for some version of “Let’s Make a Deal.” Is the lady about to trade a purse for a radio console? The banner on the wall and the tag on the cabinet are emblazoned with “Sparton,” which is a radio manufacturer in Jackson. The man second from the right has a Kroger patch on his sleeve. So why were these people gathered for a photo? Where and when was this taken? What can you tell us about this photo? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event to reunite the photos with their original clippings or identify photos that may never have been used. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@j-adgraphics.com; or call 269-945-9554. Art Steward, who was identified in the mystery photo published in the Oct. 4 Banner, wrote in to supply additional information. “Last week’s picture brought back many memories,” he wrote. “As director of the HHS band in the early 1960s, I was going over musical score with band members for a concert to be held that weekend. Pictured are (from left) Steve Working, Charles Baughman, me, Bill Smith. “Working became a band director and taught at the same school I did before coming to Hastings — Wayland Union School. Baughman became a band director and taught in the area. Smith went into business” Have you Steward, 86, said he now has been retired for more years than he taught band. He became an assistant principal at Hastings Middle School a few years before retiring in 1981. met? Michelle Duits is a part-owner of the Coleman Agency in Hastings. Duits tries to do a variety of things in the community, including being on the United Way Board of Directors and works on the backpack and Christmas basket programs. She works with the Navigate program through the Barry Community Foundation to help young men and women go to college. Duits also cochairs the charity golf classic for the Barry Community Foundation. She continues to help the Commission on Aging by contributing time and gifts. “A lot of those things are raising money,” said Duits. “Like with the backpack program, it involves raising money, but also involves volunteer time to fill the backpacks. That’s important, because many people cannot afford to donate money, but they can afford some time. So, I try to do both. I am able to give monetarily, but I also have time to give, and that’s important, too. I would like other people to get involved, if not with money then with some of their time. It makes a big difference.” If you could give someone anything in the world, it would be: Independence. Because I see a lot of people who feel they need to be dependent, whether on another person or the government, something like that. To me independence is being able to be self-sustaining whether that be financially and emotionally. But, I would also like to say that if you are independent then you can, maybe, help the people who are not to become independent.” Favorite elementary school memory: I can remember in kindergarten, I was asked Person you would most like to meet: Sarah Palin. I admire her. She has done a lot and I would just like to sit down and talk to her. Michelle Duits by my teacher to help some of the kids in the class with their alphabet and colors. To me, that made me feel good. Even as a kindergartner, I understood that I was able to help people do better. Favorite book: The Da Vinci Code and Angels and Demons by Dan Brown. I really enjoy his books. I have read those a couple of times. Favorite movie: I really like Sean Connery’s movies like “Hunt for Red October” and the James Bond movies. If you were president: I would reduce the amount of government interference in business and people’s lives. I think they have way too much control over a lot of different things. I think it keeps businesses from thriving; it keeps people from thriving. Again, it goes back to the independence thing. People are totally dependent on a lot of things from the government, and I think that needs to stop. Best advice ever received: Work hard and do the best job you can. Do you believe in miracles: No. I don’t believe in miracles. I think people make their own luck and make things happen for themselves — sometimes with the assistance of other people. One of the closest things to a true miracle is conceiving and giving birth to a healthy child. Best thing about Barry County: The people, the network of people who really care about Barry County. There are so many people who live here and really have a passion for Barry County and seeing it prosper. Each week, the Banner profiles a person who makes Barry County shine. We’ll provide a quick peek each week at some of Barry County’s stars. Do you know someone who should be featured? Send information to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@jadgraphics.com. At last week’s county board meeting, commissioners approved a $14 million 2013 budget by an 8-0 vote, pending a public hearing Oct. 23. This is good news for the citizens of Barry County. Looking back just three years ago, the county was facing cuts in revenue sharing that could have impacted its fund balance for years. Plus, much of the discussion coming from the county board at the time centered around cuts to important programs. In a November 2009 Banner article, then State Rep. Brian Calley said, “the 2009 revenue projections are in, and the numbers are pretty ugly.” Calley went on to say that the decline in state revenue was severe enough that it impacted virtually every area funded by the state — and that nothing would come out unscathed. Yet, in early 2009, Barry County still achieved a AA credit rating from Standard and Poor’s, which, at the time, was three grades higher than the county’s previous rating. According to the rating firm, “Barry County is financially sound,” with a general fund balance reported in excess of $2.1 million, with low debt levels and no immediate capital needs. County Administrator Michael Brown told commissioners in 2009 that the rating was significant not only to private individuals or companies who might invest in Barry County, but also to surrounding municipalities. According to Brown, at that time, 55 counties in the state were able to diffuse debt, but only four counties had a credit rating higher than Barry County’s. “I think the state needs to come to Barry County and see how it’s done, said Michael Callton, then chairman of the Barry County Board of Commissioners, who’s presently serving Barry County as a state representative. “It takes courage to take control of your budget,” Callton went to say. Some boards are weak; they wait until they’re in dire trouble because that gives them the kind of political will to make cuts. You need to make cuts before things get to that point, and that’s what Barry County is all about. County taxpayers can thank county commissioners and Brown for their hard work and dedication to maintain control over county spending, making it possible to weather the recent economic storm with a strong balance sheet. At last week’s county board meeting, commissioners complimented Brown and his staff for preparation of the budget and for the vision that led the county through the toughest fiscal challenges in recent years. Brown told county board members in mid-July 2009 that, “We’ve been able to have a budgeting philosophy in the county that’s not like a lot of other municipalities. We budget for what a department needs with input from department heads. They’ve shown a strong sense of responsibility, and, if they don’t need it, they return the money with the understanding that if they need it at a later time, we don’t just cut it from their budget.” Yet, some of the top economists across this country continue to warn us about the financial crisis our nation faces if we don’t get our spending under control. The United States is currently the largest economy in the world, but, if we continue to spend with little or no regard to our financial obligations, we’re headed for difficult financial times. And, unlike state governments, the federal government has What do you no legal obligation to balance its budget. In fact, in recent years the president has failed to even propose a budget. According to experts, for the fourth consecutive year, U.S. spending will outpace revenue by a trillion dollars. Earlier this year, Standard and Poor’s downgraded the nation’s credit rating for the first time in our history, yet government hasn’t done anything meaningful to deal with the crisis. According to financial experts, our current debt adds around $4 billion a day to the national debt, which currently is in excess of $16 trillion. When the presidential candidates talk about cutting Medicare, Social Security or even the military, it’s just political rhetoric, because if we don’t get our economic house in order, every government program will be impacted when our house of cards begins to fall. Barry County got the message, and, with the help of an audit review by experts at Michigan State University, it helped create a blueprint for financial stability. Brown used the MSU information to get the county board to focus on how much and where cuts were needed to keep the county in a sound economic position. If our county commission would have continued to fund programs with little or no regard to what was happening in Lansing, then we would be in the same position today as the federal government — with lots of red ink. No matter who is elected president in a couple of weeks, the administration must present a plan to reduce the federal deficit by controlling costs and cutting budgets across government. If we don’t, the results could impact our country’s financial stability for generations. Or, as Calley said in 2009, the situation will get pretty ugly. It’s like the story about cooking frogs on the stove, as long as you increase the heat slowly, no one will feel the heat until it’s too late. So if we’re not ready to face the heat we should emulate county commissioners and adjust spending to match expected revenues. Using solid numbers, Brown was able to convince county commissioners to stay the course, by cutting budgets and unnecessary spending. It worked. Due to their efforts, Barry County remains one of the most financially sound counties in the state. But, things could change. Next year, the county board will be reduced by one commissioner and will have three new faces. All three have little experience with budgeting and cutting government. It’s imperative that Brown keeps the focus on spending control. Our biggest challenge in the coming year will be more than health care, jobs or legislative agendas — deficit spending must top the list in the new year. Maybe we should follow Callton’s suggestion by inviting Congressional leaders to Barry County to see what can happen when elected officials follow good financial principles in governing. “A penny here, and a dollar there, placed at interest, goes on accumulating, and in this way the desired result is attained,” said P.T. Barnum. “It requires some training, perhaps, to accomplish this economy, but when once used, you will find there is more satisfaction in rational saving than in irrational spending.” think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. Last week’s question: A new Department of Human Services policy that withholds welfare benefits from families with children who have more than 10 unexcused school absences began Monday. Do you think this will be an effective deterrent to the lack of education, one of the causes of poverty? 50% 50% Yes No Fred Jacobs, vice president, J-Ad Graphics For this week: The Detroit Tigers are back in the baseball playoffs for a second straight year with hopes of returning to the World Series following their last appearance in 2006. Are the Tigers headed to the World Series? q q Yes No �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 11, 2012 — Page 5 IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV Sheriffs still stand To the editor: “Upright and simple men are difficult to deceive, precisely because of their simplicity; … they are not, indeed, subtle enough to be dupes.” (Jean-Jacques Rousseau, “Book IV,” The Social Contract, 1743). Rousseau’s vision of the ability of farmers to govern over themselves gave rise to our new nation. When we elect representatives (commissioners), we portion part of the public good away, choosing the comforts of an organized state over the ideals of true self-governance by citizen voices (old-fashioned town meetings). The fear of or respect for balancing powers guards the gates of tyranny in our representative democracy. Thank you to our sheriff for recognizing his duty to uphold this balance of power, though criticized. Anyone who has watched Sheriff Dar Leaf testify before the board can recognize his anticipatory trepidation at routine onslaught. Defamatory attempts of commissioners toward their rivaling power is nothing new. Rousseau described the manner in which the Roman senators (legislative branch) would hurl insults, but then make such a clamor of sound that no one could actually decipher what they were saying. Teachers belong to teacher associations. Nurses belong to nursing associations. Conversing with peers on their own constitutionally guarded private citizen time clock, shows our sheriffs are doing their part to rise above mediocrity. The insinuation that the association is a radical one does not lessen the educational value of those viewpoints. Talking to other people can only improve understanding. The founder of the association has the right to a radical stance. The federal government commits treason by aiding and abetting the cartels in ongoing slaughter of law enforcement at the border. Those men could be your fathers, brothers and husbands; but we live on another border and don’t share their sufferings — yet. Let the commissioners respect or fear the office of the sheriff. Sheriffs still stand. Krista K. Jones, Nashville Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 To the editor: Election season is here again, and in my opinion those that got beat in the primary should go out gracefully because the people have spoken and elected new ones to replace them. It’s politics. Accept it. and go home. It was time for some new faces and changes for the better to the county commission board anyway. Elden Shellenbarger, Hastings 47 percent are entitled To the editor: After hearing the remarks made by presidential candidate Mitt Romney during his $50,000 a plate fundraiser, I just could not let it go. Just who are these ignorant 47 percent who have no goals in life and are leeching off of the government. Well let’s see, they are the nursing home patients his vice presidential pick wants to cut off of Medicare. After all, they are just milking Uncle Sam. Let’s just forget the fact that they worked their entire lives paying into the Social Security system. They are also the men who stormed the beaches of Normandy and Iwo Jima, and they are women who worked in the bomb factories, plane and tank factories. Silver spooners, who hide their money in the Cayman Islands or in Swiss bank accounts, should not be talking about people paying their way. They are like my father’s next-door neighbor, who left his ability to walk in Vietnam. Shame on that leech for using his VA benefits. He just doesn’t have any goals, and has an entitlement mentality. It amazes me the talk of patriotism that comes out of the mouths of people who have never served. It is easy to be a patriot when all you have to do is talk, and cut benefits to those who have sacrificed so much to earn them. So all you disabled, Gulf War veterans, Vietnam veterans, Iraq, Afghanistan vets, and the greatest generations of Americans, stop leeching off the government. Get rid of your entitlement mentality, and pull yourself up by your bootstraps. That is, if you are able to wear boots. Lance Fliearman, Hastings Saxon fan provides power to popcorn wagon To the editor: The Hastings Lions Club has been selling popcorn at the Hastings High School football games for almost 50 years. With the addition of caramel corn, this has become our biggest fundraiser. At this week’s homecoming game, we were just getting ready to start popping when the power went out. The maintenance people from the school identified the problem, but nothing could be done to help us that night. Then someone noticed Luke Haywood and his family standing in front of our wagon wondering what was going on. A conversation ensued, he learned of our problem and offered the use of his generator, which was in the back of his pickup truck. He said he would be glad to bring it over so we could use it. So, in the second quarter, we were back popping corn and did so right into the fourth quarter. Thank you Luke and thank you to the folks who waited in line during halftime and the third quarter. John Warren, Hastings Lions Club member To the editor: Top elected officials have to take responsibility for what their administrative departments are doing. Thus, candidate Mitt Romney blames President Barack Obama for the slow economic recovery and lack of jobs, whether fair or not. By the same logic, Gov. Rick Snyder gets the blame for the fact that his DNR has sold the mineral rights to thousands of acres of public land around Michigan. The Snyder DEQ has then permitted drilling and fracking for oil and gas on some of those public lands. In Barry County, the rights to over 20,000 acres of public land were sold by the DNR. More acres of public land in Barry and Allegan counties are to be sold. This affects the land around and under Fish Lake, as well as Stuart and other lakes and rivers. Rights to public land around Gun Lake have been sold right near Gov. Snyder’s home there. People’s way of life, health and safety are being risked by our state rather than protect- ing public land and the long-term health of Michigan people. Drilling and fracking has in some places poisoned the air and people’s drinking water, making some people sick. Gas and oil pulled from below Michigan could very well be sold to China and other countries. Other countries own part or all of some Canadian and American — or international — oil companies, such as Devon and Chesapeake. Messing up state forests and state parks, fracking is against the interests of the people of Michigan. This crime against nature and maybe against people is only in the interest of the profits of oil and gas companies, and their stock holders. Is Michigan that broke that we this risk is needed ? George C Williston, Hastings Principal updates board on new high school grading policy by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Less than two months after taking the helm, new Hastings High School Principal Kevin Riggs has unveiled and implemented a new grading policy that will have little impact on students who are doing well in their classes but may give struggling students an opportunity to improve their scores. “Under the old system, the math would never be in the student’s favor; the student would not have the opportunity to pass,” Riggs told the Hastings Board of Education during its regular October work session Tuesday evening. Under the previous grading system, a student’s grade was based on the entire 18week semester (instead of a nine-week marking period) and the final exam accounted for approximately 20 percent of the total grade. Course work, tests and mid-term exam for the entire semester made up the other 80 percent. Riggs’ new grading system divides the semester into two nine-week marking periods each worth 43 percent of the student’s final grade, with the final exam contributing 14 percent of the final total. “An 18-week period is too long,” said Riggs. “A student can start getting into a hole over the first four, weeks, five weeks, six weeks and eventually, at some point, they might work themselves into a hole that they can never get out of.” He said having a nine-week marking period encourages students to improve as the end of the first marking period nears. “Research shows that if students have an end date to work towards they will pick up their game as they work towards that end time, and will improve their grade heading into that,” said Riggs. “If they have a Dplus and the marking period is coming to an end in a couple of weeks, maybe they will bump that to a C-plus, or a C-minus, a C, or even a B. Whereas, sometimes if a student is sitting in a class in September or October, January is a long ways away and there isn’t much of an incentive to work hard.” The grades students receive at parent/teacher conferences — which are halfway through the semester — will now mean something, said Riggs. “It will now be worth approximately three-sevenths of their grade for the semester, as a result. It is a fairer grade,” he said, adding that the new grading system will give teachers a better sense of student growth and progress. Riggs told the board that while some had questioned why he had implemented the new grading policy during the middle of the first semester, instead of waiting until the beginning of the second semester or a new school year, he said he felt a sense urgency to get it in place as soon as possible. “I wanted to be able to make an impact for our students now,” he said. “We’ve had this [previous grading] policy in place for a number of years, and I thought it was something that we could do to help students now and really try to get them to raise the bar a little bit as we head into the new marking period at the end of this month and as we make it through the semester.” Riggs said he met with a group of teachers and a small group of parents recommended by the administration to go over the proposed grading change before it was distributed. “I think the feedback was really positive,” he said. “I think they understood what the purpose of this was, why we’re moving in this direction, and how important it would be for our students.” Since the new policy was distributed to teachers for implementation and to students and parents for their information, Riggs said he has not received any comments, positive or negative, just a few questions. To calculate a student’s final grade, Riggs said the points from the first marking period are multiplied by .43 as are the points from the second marking period. Those totals are added to the points from the final exam which is multiplied by .14 to get the final grade. The new grading policy states that in order to receive credit for a class, a students must take the final exam and pass two of the three grading components — first marking period, second marking period, and the final exam. A student who doesn’t take the final exam or pass two of the three components with an overall passing grade will receive and F for the course. Riggs said teachers are able to use their discretion in determining student grades. It is his recommendation to give a student the advantage of a passing grade in a component or class in borderline cases, particularly if the student has shown improvement throughout the semester. “Teachers still have the flexibility to look at grades and, if the grade does not accurately reflect what the student has achieved, still have the right to change that grade to what they feel is most appropriate,” he said. Riggs said the new policy, as he presented it to the board, was updated from what he sent home with students and posted on the district’s website, so he will be sending the updated policy home with the students and posting it on the website in the next few days. He said he is also available to answer questions and concerns from parents or students. 269-967-8241 Community Impact Coordinator The Barry County United Way is seeking a highly energetic candidate for the Community Impact Coordinator position. Under the direction of the Executive Director, the Community Impact Coordinator assists and supports individuals and families in identifying their strengths/needs by making contacts with resources in the community that will help them achieve well-being and success. The Community Impact Coordinator will also assist other staff with any other tasks that need to be accomplished, and any other clerical work needed in the daily office operation. Qualified candidates will possess experience in direct client contact, database management and great communication skills, both written and verbal. Part Time: 30-35 hours per week. 06790990 The Hastings Time for new Fracking is against public interests faces on board Submit resume to lani@bcunitedway.org or deliver to the Barry County United Way office at 231 S. Broadway, Hastings 77571648 Deadline to submit: 10-18-12. Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Bonnie Mattson Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Licensed & Insured References Available Over 24 Yrs. of Basement Construction & Waterproofing Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker CONCRETE STOP LEAK Chris Silverman Dan Buerge AFFORDABLE Epoxy Pressure Injection Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere Stop Leaking Basements from the INSIDE No Digging - No Excavating - Lifetime Guarantee Over 8 Years Epoxy Experience • Res. & Com. Licensed / Insured / Local POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 Call Scott 517-290-5556 • 877-448-1548 FREE Consultation & Estimates! ALSO EGRESS WINDOWS / MOLD REMEDIATION 77571253 Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Call Tim, a local company 269-758-3312 77571642 John Jacobs �Page 6 — Thursday, October 11, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Call any time for Hastings Banner classified ads Area Obituaries 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 Richard J. Guenther Worship Together… Georgia E. Otis Patrick Joseph Loftus 77571442 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Rev. Ryan Wieland. Sundays - 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Service; Sunday School and Nursery available during both services (Summer Schedule - Adult Sunday School: 9 a.m., Worship & Children’s Programs 10 a.m.) Youth Group, Covenant Prayer, Choir, Chimes, Praise Band, Quilting Group, Community Breakfasts and more! Call the church office at (269) 721-8077 (M/W/F 9 a.m.-12 p.m.), e-mail office@mei.net or visit www.countrychapelumc.org <http://www.countrychapelumc.org/> for more information SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 . HASTINGS ASSEMBLY OF GOD 1674 S. State Rd., Hastings, MI 49058 Phone 269-945-2285. Sunday morning service times: 9 a.m. with nursery and preschool available and 11 a.m. with nursery, preschool and kids’ church available. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 8:45 a.m. Traditional Worship; 10 a.m. Refreshments; 10:45 a.m. Contemporary Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Youth Pastor Eric Gillespie. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. for children and youth, and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Junior and Senior High Youth Group 6:00 p.m. , and several adult small group opportunities. Wednesday Mid-Week Pioneers at 6:30 p.m.: Pioneer Club, 4 years through 5th grade. Adults: Marriage Enrichment class, Women’s Prayer Group and a Men’s Bible Study. Thursday: Senior Adult (50+) Bible Study at 10 a.m. and lunch at Wendy’s, 11:30 a.m. Third Thursday Brunch at 9:30 a.m. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Sunday, October 14 - Worship Service 8 and 10:45 a.m. Sunday School 8:45 a.m. October 14 Men’s Alcoholics Anonymous 7 p.m. October 15 - Adventure Bible Study 7 p.m.; Recovery Bible Study 7:30 p.m. October 16 - Shepherd’s Committee 2 p.m.; Congregational Council 7 p.m. October 17 Wordwatchers 10 a.m. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-9459414 or 945-2645, fax 269-9452698. Pastor Amy Luckey. http://www.discover-grace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot.com. Friday - 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday - 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday 4 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Lauer Family Funeral Homes HASTINGS, MI - Richard J. Guenther passed away Thursday, September 20, 2012. He was born on October 13, 1924 in Crystal Falls, MI, the son of Charles and Annette Guenther. He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty, with whom he had nine surviving children, Tricia Reed, Annette (Bill) Markovich, Charles (Anne) Guenther, Greta (Bill Grover) Guenther, Kris Guenther, John (Sherry) Guenther, Bob Guenther, Jeff (Julie) Guenther, Buni (Marty) Stachurski. He is survived by his loving wife, Joyce, and her three children, Jeff (Karen) Newhouse, Jill (Rich) Frieling, Joel (Pam) Newhouse. Along with their children, Dick and Joyce have 26 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren thus completing a wonderful family. Also surviving is his brother, Charles. Dick served in the United States Marines from 1942-1946 including overseas at Iwo Jima. Upon discharge, he attended Eastern Michigan University obtaining a B.S. degree in 1950. He completed his Masters at the University of Michigan in 1952. He taught special education children for three years at the Wayne County Training School following a three year term as Director of a Kellogg Foundation Research Study for handicapped children in Michigan. Dick served as a consultant in the Michigan Department of Education from 1956 to 1958. Dick joined the Hastings Area Schools January 1, 1958 and was appointed Superintendent of Schools January 1, 1961, serving in that capacity until his retirement December 31, 1982. Over a period of the next two years, he served as an adjunct professor at Michigan State University, Western Michigan University and Grand Valley State University. Locally, Dick was active in Kiwanis, Chamber of Commerce, and Community Friends. Statewide, Dick served on the State Committee for Special Education and the Committee for Financing Special Education serving as chairman three times, member of Hope United Methodist Church, American Legion, a life member of Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Elks. The family will receive visitors Friday, October 12 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. at Lauer Family Funeral Home-Wren Chapel located at 1401 N. Broadway in Hastings. A church service will be held Saturday, October 13, 2012 at 11 a.m. at Hope United Methodist Church, 2920 S. M-37 Hwy, Hastings. Military honors offered by enlisted personnel and American Legion Post 45. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be given to the Hasting Education Enrichment Foundation (HEEF), c/o the Hastings Area Board of Education, or to Hope United Methodist Church. Please share a memory with Richard’s family at www.lauerfh.com 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings Fiberglass Products 945-2471 FAMILY FUNERAL HOMES 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 HASTINGS, MI - Georgia E. Otis, age 84, of Hastings passed away, Friday, October 5, 2012 at her residence. She was born June 28, 1928 in Hastings, the daughter of Burl H. and Celia B. (Curtis) Will. Georgia attended Hastings High School, graduating in 1946. She married Paul Otis, Sr. on June 19, 1948. Georgia was employed by Gerald Epley CPA, in Kalamazoo and also worked part-time for Jad Graphics in Hastings. She was a member of the Hastings First United Methodist Church, WIBC, Michigan 600 Club and a founding member of Chapel Hill United Methodist Church in Portage. She was a den mother for the Cub Scouts of America. In her younger years she played softball. Georgia enjoyed knitting, crocheting, word searches, puzzles, pinochle, euchre and bowling. She also enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Georgia was preceded in death by her parents, Burt H. and Celia B. Will; husband of 52 years, Paul R. Otis Sr.; daughter, Linda A. Falconer; sisters, Grace (Robert) Howell, Barbara (Merle) Scott; brother, John (Thelma) Will. She is survived by her sons, Alan (Teresa) Otis of West Bend, WI, Paul (Denise) Otis Jr. of Towanda, IL, Thomas (Virginia) Otis of Gobles, Ronald Otis of Dripping Spring, TX; daughter, Elaine (Kevin) Hammontree of Hastings; son-in-law, Butch Falconer; 14 grandchildren; numerous great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren; sisters, Helen Green, Mildred (Duane) Jarman, Joyce (Dewey) Criddle and brother, Neil (Josephine) Will. Georgia was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend and will be greatly missed by all. Memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church or Pennock Hospice. Visitation and memorial services were held on Monday, October 8, 2012 at the Girrbach Funeral Home. Rev. David Nelson, officiating. A luncheon followed the service at the First United Methodist Church. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message to the family Roy A. Wood HICKORY CORNERS, MI - Roy A. Wood, of Hickory Corners, formerly of Waterford, died October 7, 2012 at age 72. Beloved husband of Beverly; dear father of Bud (Joyce) Leinenger, Tammy (Jeff) Tomrell and Robert (Tammy) Leinenger. Loving grandfather of James, Mallorie, Tommy, Ali, Alexis, Angelina, Gage and Cole. Great Grandfather of Nathan. Also survived by his siblings Virginia (Russ) Lemorie, Shirley (Junior) Reed, David (Janet) Wood, Maybelle (Bill) VanHorn, Jean (the late Cleadus) Steffy, Ruth (the late Dan) Miller and John (Pam) Wood. Predeceased by his brothers James, Henrey, Willmonte, Jerry, Charles, Virgil and Danny. Roy worked for Schram Auto Parts, Rochester Twist Drill as well as many years as a skilled mechanic. Memorial services will be held on Saturday, October 13, 2012, 12-2 p.m. at Pleasantview Family Church, 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling. Arrangements entrusted to Coats Funeral Home - Waterford. To send a private condolence, go to www.CoatsFuneralHome.com/ Obituaries. HASTINGS, MI - Patrick Joseph Loftus, age 79, of Hastings passed away October 3, 2012 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Grand Rapids of complications from a cerebral hemorrhage. Born March 24, 1933 in Ann Arbor to Henry J. and Elizabeth G. (nee Baker) Loftus, Patrick lived most of his life in Middleville and Hastings. He served in the 3rd U.S. Air Force 1951-1955, stationed in England and Emporia, KS. He worked 33 years at Bradford White Corporation, retiring in 1994. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Iris (nee Horsley); daughter and son-in-law, Denise and Dean Garn of Jenison; son, Andrew of Annapolis, MD; grandchildren, Dornier, Banan, Mallory, and Ross Loftus; step- grandchildren, Ashlee, Lance, and Nolan Errthum; daughter-in-law, Debbie Loftus-Errthum and husband Scott, brother and sister-in-law, Austin and Marcia Loftus of Manistique; sister, Elizabeth Heidt of Hastings, and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Patrick was preceded in death by son, Terrance in 2004. Patrick enjoyed camping, fishing and hunting prior to an illness in 1994, as well as watching sports and worldwide travel including several visits to family in England and Ireland. He was an avid fan of everything Irish, especially Notre Dame football. He loved being with family and friends, meeting new people and took an interest in genealogy. A funeral service was held Saturday, October 6, 2012 at the St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church. Fr. Richard Altine celebrant. Interment at Mt. Calvary Cemetery with full military honors. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association or the American Cancer Society. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message to the family. Health department environmental director receives Adrounie Award The Barry-Eaton District Health Department has announced that Eric Pessell, environmental health director there for eight years, has received the V. Harry Adrounie award from the Michigan Association of Local Environmental Health Administrators. The association is a forum of the Michigan Association for Local Public Health. It’s mission includes strengthening all facets of environmental health delivery systems through effective and efficient administrative policies and procedures and coordination of administrative effort at the local level. The V. Harry Adrounie Award which is named after Lt. Col. V. Harry Adrounie Ph.D. is a founder’s award which recognizes inspiration, leadership, vision, compassion and compromise as an environmental health professional. Pessell, a two-time past president of the association, also served as secretary this past year. This is his 18th year in public health, 12 of which he served as an environmental health director. Pessell was the environmental health director for Jackson County before coming to the Barry-Eaton District Health Department in 2004. “I am very humbled to receive the V. Harry Adrounie award” said Pessell. “I feel very grateful and privileged to have personally known Dr. Adrounie.” Adrounie, who died in 2010, was a Hastings resident and one of the founding members of MALEHA. “We congratulate Eric Pessell and are proud to have him at the Barry-Eaton District Health Department” said Colette Scrimger, health officer. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 11, 2012 — Page 7 State News Roundup Call any time for Hastings Banner ads Have a Printing Need? 1351 N. M-43 Hwy. P.O. Box 188 Hastings, MI 49058-0188 We Have a Colorful Solution... Whether your printing needs are complex color brochures or simple black and white forms, let J-ad Graphics design, print and deliver quality printed materials you’ll be proud of. Complete design, printing and bindery facilities in-house to handle all of your printing needs no matter how large or small. Call one of our Printing Specialists today! Publishers of: •Hastings Banner •Hastings Reminder •Sun & News •Lakewood News •Maple Valley News •Marshall Chronicle & Community Advisor •Battle Creek Shopper •Lowell Ledger & Buyers’ Guide To contact one of our Printing Specialists Call: PR Phone (269) 945-9554 Fax (269) 945-5192 1 OR OL 269-945-9554 The Public Health Preparedness: 2012 State-by-State Report on Laboratory, Emergency Operations Coordination and Emergency Public Information and Warning Capabilities recently released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes Michigan is a leader in public health emergency preparedness and continues to improve Michigan’s response efforts by developing, exercising and improving emergency response capabilities. The state-by-state report describes the trends and progress made in three of 15 public health preparedness capabilities within state and local health departments across the nation: public health laboratory testing, emergency operations coordination, and emergency public information and warning. The report shows for all three capabilities that Michigan has met or exceeded target benchmarks in each of the three years included in the report; 2009 through 2011. “The health and wellness of Michigan citizens is our top priority,” said Director of the Michigan Department of Community Health James K. Haveman. “Our ability to protect the public’s health during emergencies relies on many factors, but having the capability to rapidly and accurately detect a potential health threat, effectively coordinate our response and quickly get critical information out to the public is crucial.” In 2011, the CDC identified 15 public health preparedness capabilities as the national standard for state and local preparedness. All state and local health departments funded The Saugatuck-Douglas Convention and Visitors Bureau was recently advised of its nomination of the Saugatuck-Douglas area as one of the prettiest painted places in the U.S. has won placement among the top 10 finalists in the north central U.S. region, ensuring a place in the final round of the competition where judges will select the top 12 Prettiest Painted Places in the nation. “We were invited to participate in this competition several months ago so I submitted 21 photographs that I shot of beautifully painted local residences and businesses which I felt represented the unique taste and creativity of our area,” said Felicia Fairchild, executive director of the Saugatuck-Douglas Convention and Visitors Bureau, in a press release issued Oct. 5. “Eight Michigan communities were originally nominated in the initial round of voting, including Traverse City, Grand Rapids, Frankenmuth, Petoskey, Howard City and Constantine, but only Saugatuck-Douglas and Bay View survived the first cut.” The search for the Prettiest Painted Places in America is now narrowing, with 10 finalists from the North Central U.S. named by the Paint Quality Institute, an informational entity whose mission is to educate the public about quality paints and coatings. The other eight finalists are Aurora, Ill.; Evansville, Wisc.; Fargo, N.D./Moorhead, Minn.; Galena, Ill.; Grinnell, Iowa; Lowry Hill East, Minn.; Richmond, Ind.; and Stillwater, Minn. After further evaluation, two of the 10 will be named the prettiest painted places in the North Central U.S., alongside winners from five other regions, to make up the 12 prettiest painted places in America. The search for America’s prettiest painted places began in the spring, when the Paint Quality Institute contacted state departments of tourism, local chambers of commerce, and convention and visitors bureaus in all 50 states. Eventually, nearly 200 towns, historic districts, neighborhoods and Main Streets were nominated in the competition. Last week, a panel of judges with expertise in color selection, exterior painting, and home CO PIE HASTINGS, MI - Ronna K. Dove, age 75 of Hastings passed away October 2, 2012 at Pennock Hospital in Hastings. She was born February 2, 1937 in Hastings, the daughter of Roland H. and Doris Leone (Williams) Taliaferro. Ronna attended Hastings Schools. She married Benjamin Dove on February 15, 1963. Ronna was employed by Michigan Magnetics for three years, Hastings Manufacturing for two years, her and husband, Benjamin managed Camp Thornapple for 10 years and then built an adult "At Home" foster care home, which she ran from 1990 to 2006, until she retired. After retirement Ronna would spend her winters in Yuma and summers on Willitts Road in Hastings. She enjoyed working in her flowers, crocheting and going to the casino. Ronna especially enjoyed her grandchildren and her great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Roland and Doris Taliaferro. Ronna is survived by her husband, Benjamin Dove of Hastings; son, Jeffrey Stanton of Hastings; stepchildren, Brian (Lee) Dove, Brenda (Daryl) Rummins; sisters, Meridee S. Burghdoff and Judith (Adolfo) Jacinto; three nephews and three nieces. Memorial contributions may be made to the Barry County Humane Society, P.O. Box 386, Hastings, MI 49058. Respecting Ronna's wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held October 17, 2012 at 1 p.m. at the Elks Lodge in Hastings. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, please visit our website at www.girrbach funeralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message to the family. Sean William, born at Pennock Hospital on Sept. 30, 2012 at 2:32 p.m. to Brian and Darcey Cotant of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 10 ozs. and 20 1/2 inches long. ***** Royce Ryan, born at Pennock Hospital on Oct. 2, 2012 at 4:48 a.m. to Jessica and Shawn Simon of Hastings. 20 inches long. ***** Jacee Malyn, born at Pennock Hospital on Sept. 29, 2012 at 6:03 a.m. to Linsey and Antonio Jacinto of Hastings. Weighing 6 lbs. 12 ozs. and 19 1/2 inches long. ***** Bentley James, born at Pennock Hospital on Sept. 27, 2012 at 11:37 a.m. to Kristy Matthews of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 1 oz. and 19 inches long. ***** Cole Michael, born at Pennock Hospital on Sept. 27, 2012 at 7:57 p.m. to Michaela Shriber of Hastings. Weighing 8 lbs. 7 ozs. and 20 1/2 inches long. ***** Jaylee Blair, born at Pennock Hospital on Sept. 26, 2012 at 7:35 p.m. to Broc and Sarah Reaser of Hastings. Weighing 8 lbs. 0 ozs. and 20 inches long. State continues positive strides in public health emergency preparedness Michigan received a special national award Oct. 1 for its dramatic growth in the number of registered organ, eye and tissue donors who save and heal lives. Donate Life America presented the “Greatest Improvement in Donor Designation Rate” award to Michigan at the Donate Life National State Team Leader Conference in Grapevine, Texas. Michigan, one of four states to receive the special award, had the second highest growth in donor designations in 2011 among the 50 states and the District of Columbia. Nearly 400,000 people joined the Michigan Organ Donor Registry in 2011, up from 320,000 the year before – a 25 percent increase. “The response from Michigan residents willing to give the gift of life has been incredible,” said Secretary of State Ruth Johnson, who changed department policy so now branch office customers are asked, time permitting, if they want to join the donor registry. Johnson also put organ donation reminders on widely used Secretary of State forms and uses social media to promote the Michigan Organ Donor Registry. “I thank everyone who has taken a moment to join and all our employees who have made the new policy the success that it is,” she said. The donor designation rate is the percentage of people renewing a driver’s license or state ID who join the donor registry or who have already joined. In 2010, Michigan’s rate was 29.7 percent. In 2011, the rate jumped to 35.4 percent. So far in 2012, Michigan’s rate is estimated to be well more than 40 percent, and the state is on pace to have over half-amillion new donor registrations. The Secretary of State works with Gift of Life, the Michigan Eye-Bank, the Donate Life Coalition of Michigan, the Michigan Donor Family Council, the Michigan Health and Hospital Association and other partners to promote organ, tissue and eye donation. Together, they constitute the “state team.” To join the Michigan Organ Donor Registry, anyone can sign up at any Secretary of State office or online, www.Michigan.gov/sos. Those who sign up receive a heart logo sticker to place on their driver’s license or ID card that indicates their wish to be an organ, tissue and eye donor. A new card with a permanent heart emblem is issued at renewal time. Customers also may call 888-767-6424. s Newborn Babies Saugatuck-Douglas places in national competition *H *O igh ne Q Ch •C eck H ua o ou lit •F olor ut o ol rP yF •C di Cop ur s n pe •B olla g & ies ho ilm cia t ls •C lack ing Lam to er v in * Pr ice •P usto & W ati s: oc m l ng h an astic Ru ite es d M Bin bbe Cop sin or i e! ding r Sta es g* m p FAMILY FUNERAL HOMES A Michigan Department of Natural Resources conservation officer responding to a routine call in Van Buren County helped nab an Allegan County man wanted in connection with a known methamphetamine lab. While on a patrol in Van Buren County, DNR conservation officer Steve Mooney was speaking with a landowner when the landowner received a phone call telling him that a burglary was in progress at his hunting camp. Mooney drove to the nearby camp where he apprehended one of two suspects attempting to steal an off-road vehicle. The suspect also was sought by police on an outstanding warrant for drug manufacturing. Mooney called the Van Buren County Sheriff’s Department for assistance and, with the help of a Michigan State Police K-9 unit and Van Buren County deputies, the second suspect was found hiding in a deer blind in a swampy area. “The heads-up actions of Officer Mooney help illustrate that our COs do not only deal with natural resource laws, but are fully empowered law enforcement officers who handle all aspects of criminal behavior,” said Lt. Timothy Robson of the DNR’s Plainwell Operations Center. “We commend Officer Mooney for his quick thinking and exemplary performance.” To learn more about the role and many responsibilities of Michigan’s conservation officers, what it takes to become a CO, and the variety of situations a CO may face in the field, visit the DNR website at www.michigan.gov/conservationofficers. Michigan recognized for increasing organ donor registry I NT RI LP Ronna K. Dove DNR officer’s call lands meth-lab suspect improvement reviewed the entries and narrowed the field to 60 finalists, 10 from each of six geographic regions. The 12 national winners will be named later this month. To see a complete list of the 60 finalists, visit http://blog.paintquality.com/ppp/ • HASTINGS, MI - Blake Vincent Baird, of Hastings, passed away October 9, 2012. Blake was born August 4, 1991 in Battle Creek, the son of Vincent Baird and Tammy (Lee) Smith. Blake enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time with his family and friends, especially his Grandpa Lee. Blake was a sweet young man, was precious to many and could light up a room with his smile and laughter. In the past he had been a volunteer firefighter for the Freeport Fire Department which he enjoyed. Blake is survived by his parents, Vincent Baird, Tammy (Paul) Smith; brothers, Clayton Smith, Ricky Smith, Logan Smith, Brendon Baird and Parker Smith; grandparents, James (Sharry) Lee, David (Lynnie) Parker, Deb Baird, Diane McMillan and Paul Smith; great grandfather, Fred Spinney; aunts and uncles, Theresa (Brandon) Lewis, Nicole Baird, Troy Lee, Tracy Lee, Todd (Dawn) Smith and Wynn (Shawn) Wilkins; special cousins, Kaitlyn Addison, Brittney Lee, Dakota Healey, Triston Lewis; and several other cousins; stepmother, Becky Snyder. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Buster Baird and great grandmother, Beverly Spinney. Blake's family will receive friends Friday, October 12, 2012, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Hickory Corners Bible Church, where a funeral service will be conducted at 1 p.m. with Pastor Bernard Blair officiating. Interment will be in East Hickory Corners Cemetery. Those who wish to make memorial contributions are asked to consider the needs of the family. Please visit www.williamsgoresfuneral. com to view Blake’s online guest book or to leave a condolence message for the family. HASTINGS, MI - Teresa Sigurdson, age 48, of Hastings, passed away on Tuesday, October 9, 2012 at Metropolitan Health Hospital. She was born on October 16, 1963 in Hastings to Charles R. and Jean A. (Everett) Gamble. She was a family oriented person who dearly loved her family, especially her grandchildren. She had a wonderful off-beat sense of humor and enjoyed music and flowers. She was a big-hearted person who was always willing to care for anyone, a person who was always approachable and you could go to for support. Her door was always open for anyone to stop by for a meal. She attended Bible Missionary Church in Hastings where she loved her church family. She is survived by her husband, David Sigurdson; sons, Jason Sager of Delton, Joshua (Melinda) Davis of Vista, CA and Justin Davis of Hastings; twin daughters, Jacqueline Davis and Jeannette Davis both of Hastings; stepson, Derek Sigurdson of Phoenix, AZ; brother, Robert Gamble of Hastings; sister, Denise (Chad) Ferril of Cadillac; grandchildren, Jason Sager Jr., Kalaiah McCrackin and Hunter Sivits. She was preceded in death by her mother, Jean Everett; sister, Janice Ritchie; and aunt, Janet Morgan; grandson, Noah. Visitation will be held on Friday, October 12, 2012 from 10 a.m. until the time of services at 11 a.m. at Bible Missionary Church, 315 E. Marshall Street in Hastings, with Rev. Blaine Shaw officiating. Interment will follow in Lakeview Cemetery in Nashville. Services are entrusted to Lauer Family Funeral Home – Wren Chapel, 1401 N. Broadway in Hastings. Please share a memory with Teresa’s family at www.lauerfh.com. Michigan organic farmers sold $99.2 million worth of organic crops and livestock in 2011, according to Jay Johnson, director of the USDA, NASS, Michigan Field Office. Seventy-seven percent of sales were sold to the wholesale market, while 19 percent was sold directly to the retail market. The remaining 4 percent was sold directly to consumers. Organic field crop sales were the largest commodity group and accounted for $35.3 million in sales. The remaining top five commodity groups in order of sales were vegetables, $4.3 million; fruit and nuts (excluding apples and grapes), $1.8 million; apples, $1.5 million; and berries, $.7 million. Some commodity groups were not published to avoid disclosure of individual operations. California was the No. 1 state in organic sales, at $1.4 billion, followed by Washington ($297.1 million) and Oregon ($233.5 million). The remaining top eight organic producing states were Texas, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, New York and Michigan. For a copy of the 2011 Certified Organic Production Survey, visit the website www.nass.usda.gov. under the CDC’s Public Health Emergency Preparedness Cooperative Agreement — including MDCH, Michigan’s 45 local health departments and 11 of Michigan’s 12 federally recognized tribes — receive PHEP funding to achieve these capabilities. To view the report, visit www.cdc.gov/phpr/pubs-links/2012/documents/2012%20State-ByState_Preparedness_Report.pdf. For more information about the MDCH Office of Public Health Preparedness, visit www.michigan.gov/ophp. IN TIN G N Michigan ranked eighth in organic sales in 2011 • Teresa Sigurdson NG Blake Vincent Baird IG ES &D �Page 8 — Thursday, October 11, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of by Elaine Garlock The Lake Odessa Area Historical Society meets tonight. On the program will be a history of Central United Methodist Church, a church that had its start even before the town of Bonanza. The location was called Russells Corners which eventually became Bonanza, a hamlet with church, school, hotel, photo shop, grocery and several other businesses. Today, some of those buildings are in use in Lake Odessa. The church itself has had many changes in appearance over the 108 years of its existence. The Ionia County Genealogical Society will meet Saturday, Oct. 13, at 1 p.m. The ICGS and the historical society have lost a valuable member for each in the death of Jacqueline Gilliland. Downtown was abuzz Saturday with events strung along Fourth Avenue in celebration of Fall Festival 2012. Central United Methodist Church had bounce houses spread across the lawn. The former site of Smith Elevator and the library near the railroad tracks was busy with pumpkins pelting across the graveled area. Side streets had walkers, joggers and runners following a prescribed course, complete with traffic cones to mark distances. The fun ran from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. A man with a forklift was working yet on Sunday to return equipment used Saturday back to its rightful place. The fire prevention company that installed the 12-inch water main from Fourth Avenue to Twin City Foods sent a crew back last week to finish the paving project on Johnson Street. One adjoining neighbor had a six-inch wall of gravel while her neighbor had a fourinch drop-off on the curve. They did a fine job on the repair and also smoothed the entire strip of easement from Fourth Avenue to the Twin City property on the Anderson farmland. The farm crop of soybeans was harvested by then, and the land was chisel plowed in preparation for the next crop. Harvest of soybeans has been at a steady pace for the past week. The week before last was an ideal time for bonfires. The sky was clear with a bright moon, greater each night. Youngsters at one neighborhood bonfire on Johnson Street kept busy counting the airplanes they could see approaching or department from Ford International Airport in Grand Rapids. In the first hour they counted more than 20. Take note of the colorful window boxes at downtown stores. They are beautiful with their fall colors. The but planters along the streets replaced with either tall grass with waving seed pods or colorful mum plants. A few have small conical evergreen shrubs. The waterwagon made its nightly rounds for weeks, manned by business people or members of the arts commission. The Michigan grand chapter Order of Eastern Star convened in Battle Creek this week. This chapter is the oldest grand chapter in the world. Five members of the Mulliken chapter were among those attending. Lake Odessa members had joined the Mulliken chapter a few years ago. The Mulliken chapter will hold its open installation Oct. 25 at 7:30 p.m. in the Mulliken Masonic Temple. The Lakewood Class of 1967 held its 45th anniversary reunion Saturday at Centennial Acres with an evening meal and fellowship. About 50 classmates attended, along with spouses. THE BARRY COUNTY ROAD COMMISSION will be taking sealed bids on the following home at 5030 Squire Lane, Middleville, MI 49333. Bids will be accepted at the Barry County Road Commission, 1725 West M-43 Hwy., PO Box 158, Hastings, MI 49058, until October 29, 2012 at 10:00 AM. Home is on 5.43 acres, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths. Minimum Bid $160,000. More info and photos at www.barrycrc.org. The Board reserves the right to reject any or all bids, or to waive irregularities in the best interest of the Commission. Envelope must be marked *SEALED BID*. BOARD OF COUNTY ROAD COMMISSIONERS OF THE COUNTY OF BARRY Frank M. Fiala, Chairman D. David Dykstra, Member 77571599 David D. Solmes, Member EDWARD JONES Financial moves for a growing family When you add a child to your family, either through birth or adoption, it’s obviously an exciting and joyful time in your life — and it’s also a busy one, as you deal with all the challenges and commitments faced by all parents. However, hectic as your life may be, you’ll still need to think about making some key financial arrangements to accommodate your new child. Here are some suggestions to consider: • Get a Social Security number. You’ll want to obtain a Social Security number for your child as soon as possible. • Speak with a tax advisor. If you’re adopting a child, you might be eligible for federal income tax credits. • Build an emergency fund. Obviously, a new child may mean a variety of new expenses. If you aren’t prepared for these costs, many of which may crop up suddenly, you might be forced to dip into your long-term investments. Such a move could slow your progress toward your important goals, such as a comfortable retirement. To avoid this potential problem, try to build an emergency fund containing six months’ worth of living expenses. Put the money in a liquid account so you can access it quickly and without Marriage Licenses Chase Daniel Rairigh, Middleville and Krystle Jean Koning, Middleville. Stephen Edward Salsbury, Lake Odessa and Leah Ann Allen, Nashville. David Andrew Gay, Apopka, FL and Marian Mae Hart, Battle Creek. John Harold Price, Freeport and Kayla Marie Kermeen, Middleville. Sean Paul Gillum, Nashville and Leslie Ann Raymond, Nashville. Tom Michael Henney, Hastings and Maxine Elaine Stanton, Hastings. Thomas Alyan Shuman, Hastings and Elizabeth Ann Hill, Hastings. Robert Lee Fields, Nashville and Kayla Marie Napier, Vermontville. Brandon Michael Awrey, Hastings and Deanna May Haines, Hastings. penalty. • Research options for a special needs child. If you have a special needs child, you may want to explore any available government benefits and consider speaking with an attorney about your legal options. • Consider disability insurance. You may want to purchase disability insurance, or review your current policy, to ensure your family’s needs are covered should you become ill or disabled and cannot work for a while. • Review your life insurance. It’s essential that you maintain adequate life insurance to cover your family’s future financial needs, including education costs. While your employer may offer you a group policy, it might not be sufficient to keep up with your growing family. There’s no one “formula” for determining the appropriate amount of life insurance, but a professional financial advisor can review your family situation and recommend suitable coverage. • Save for college. Given the high costs of higher education, it’s never too soon to start putting away money for college. You may want to consider a tax-advantaged account, such as a 529 plan, which offers high contribution limits and provides you with the flexibility to switch beneficiaries, if necessary. NEWS BRIEFS Continued from page 1 Lake Road, Hastings. Barnard will overview the six-day, five-night expedition to explore the river’s biodiversity and the benefits the watershed brings to Barry County and other counties through which it travels. A box lunch will be provided for participants in the program. Fee information may be obtained or registration made by calling the KCC Fehsenfeld Center at 269-948-9500, ext. 2803. • Review/add beneficiary designations. You may want to change or add beneficiaries to your IRA, 401(k), life insurance, annuities and other accounts. • Explore a custodial account. You might want to consider a custodial account, such as an UGMA or UTMA, that allows you to transfer assets for the benefit of a child under 21. (Consult with your tax and legal advisors before making this move.) Of course, you don’t have to take care of all these items at once. But by methodically working your way through this list, you will eventually adjust your overall financial strategy to include your new child — which means you’ll be helping your growing family make progress toward its important goals. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 33.52 -.21 AT&T 37.14 -.67 BP PLC 42.02 -.69 CMS Energy Corp 23.86 +.29 Coca-Cola Co 38.56 +.22 Eaton 46.29 -.35 Family Dollar Stores 67.95 +1.95 Fifth Third Bancorp 15.86 +.40 Flowserve CP 128.78 +.73 Ford Motor Co. 10.10 +1.36 General Mills 39.51 -.61 General Motors 24.37 +.69 Intel Corp. 21.90 -.94 Kellogg Co. 51.58 -.32 McDonald’s Corp 92.11 +1.18 Pfizer Inc. 25.31 -.19 Ralcorp 73.55 -.10 Sears Holding 58.90 +3.50 Spartan Motors 5.17 +.15 Spartan Stores 15.05 -.40 Stryker 52.73 -1.94 TCF Financial 11.66 -.24 Walmart Stores 74.14 +.39 Gold $1764.10 -$11.50 Silver $33.89 -.76 Dow Jones Average 13,473 -9 Volume on NYSE 572M +14M ® TWO BROTHERS AND A TENT The For All Your Tent Rental Needs Tables and chairs available. Call: Dan McKinney 269-838-7057 or Tom McKinney 269-838-3842 77571620 77564841 77566915 Theresa Steffes Walker, Fluke & Sheldon, PLC is pleased to announce that Theresa Steffes has joined our staff as a Senior Accountant. Steffes has more than 28 years of experience in the accounting industry with a strong background in personal tax and governmental auditing. She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree from Grand Valley State University, is a Certified Public Accountant and is also a Certified Governmental Financial Manager. Theresa is a member of both the MACPA and AICPA. Member American Institute of CPA’s, Michigan Association of CPA’s Offices in Hastings and Ionia 525 W. Apple St., Hastings 269.945.9452 Fax 269.945.4890 1971 S. State Rd., Ionia 616.522.0792 Fax 616.522.0873 77571644 www.wfscpas.com 77571580 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 11, 2012 — Page 9 GUENTHER, continued from page 1 character. Guenther, who was working toward a doctoral degree at the University of Illinois while working for the Kellogg Foundation and integrating the study’s findings into his graduate work, was denied the degree by the university’s review committee because he had been “paid” for his doctoral work. “He didn’t get his Ph.D. due to a technicality in being employed by the Kellogg Foundation,” marvels retired Hastings special education teacher Dave Wilcox, 62. “I’d ask him, ‘Dick, why didn’t you appeal it?’ and he would just smile and say, ‘It doesn’t matter, I earned it.’” Wilcox was another admirer attracted to Guenther’s groundbreaking reputation in special education who wanted to be part of the team. Following college graduation, Wilcox was treated to breakfast by Guenther and provided a flat-out refusal to be hired because Wilcox had married Cindy Lang, a daughter to Guenther’s assistant superintendent, Lew Lang. Guenther felt the close professional association and Wilcox’s inexperience was too great a risk. After a year of teaching special education in Plainwell, Wilcox relates, Guenther believed Wilcox had proven his commitment to special education and hired him in Hastings. The association became a lifelong one fed, Wilcox says, by Guenther’s support of creative special education, his loyalty to his employees and — above all — his sense of humor which he maintained and used through his final days as a rehabilitation patient at Thornapple Manor. “He was having trouble sleeping during the night,” relates Wilcox, who was a frequent visitor of Guenther’s, “so they wanted to give him a psychological exam. They sent in an assistant, she introduced herself, then told Dick she was going to give him five words to recall after a short conversation they were going to have. “So they have this conversation and, after a while, she says, ‘Mr. Guenther, could you repeat those five words I gave you a few minutes ago?’ Dick waits, looks right at her and then says, ‘You go first.’” Wilcox says he’ll always value the time he had with his mentor and believes his time visiting with Guenther at Thornapple Manor was much like the well-known story told by Detroit writer Mitch Albom called Tuesdays with Morrie. “I’m doing these visits with him, and I’m still learning from him,” tells Wilcox. “He always reminded us of the importance of respect for everybody, and, just watching how he interacted with people told you all about that.” Cindy Wilcox saw that respect in Guenther’s early morning coffee sessions at the bus garage, in the cafeteria and in the custodians’ supply rooms. “He wanted to know who was working for him and he wanted them to know what they were working for,” marvels Cindy, who saw the same respect even in Guenther’s last days. “There were times he had to have his blood drawn and the nurse would be having a difficult time finding a vein,” relates Cindy. “The pain was just excruciating for him, but, when Above all else, Dick Guenther was an educator, especially to those most in need. Here, operating in the mid-1950s under a W.K. Kellogg Foundation grant, he piloted studies in Hastings, Grand Haven and Kalamazoo to explore teaching methods for the severely impaired. Pictured with him (from left) are Ernestine Wall of Grand Haven and Esther Breeze, Juanita Phelps, Audrey Marr and Bethanna Van of Kalamazoo. The student and his aide are not identified in this photo from the Kalamazoo Gazette. the nurse would apologize, he’d just say, ‘That’s alright, you’re doing the best you can.’ He just knew how to make people feel good.” Even the people who, in some school superintendent circles, might be foes were brought in and felt the inner warmth of Guenther’s presence. “He called us his ‘mafia,’” chuckles retired teacher Tom Maurer who, in many school years was the chief salary negotiator for the teaching staff. “It was a sentimental thing because he was a teacher advocate — he didn’t want any school system in the state of Michigan to be better than ours. Dick had a personal vision for what made a staff great, and we all wound up being part of his ‘mafia.’” Maurer does remember one particularly difficult negotiating session that was resolved in the Maurer kitchen over coffee and doughnuts “just the way he liked it.” Though negotiations may not have occurred, the foundation on which they were built often came through a friendly round of poker or over a round of drinks, activities which Guenther was adept at using as “equalizers” after a difficult negotiating session or especially honest evaluation. Poker was a game of which Guenther was especially fond, though it had to be stag because Guenther maintained women “talk too much,” laughs retired high school principal Bob VanderVeen, who now lives on Wall Lake. Guenther was hardly a chauvinist. When he arrived in Hastings, he expressed consternation over a dual salary structure in which women teachers were paid less than their male counterparts. With little more than the NOTICE Delton Kellogg Schools is ACCEPTING BIDS The minutes of the meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners held October 9, 2012, are available in the County Clerk’s Office at 220 W. State St., Hastings, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or www.barrycounty.org. For installation of a water well for the 2012-2013 Building Trades House complying with the requirements below. Bids must be received by 2:30 p.m. November 1, 2012. The Delton Kellogg Schools Superintendent will review all bids submitted and select a winning bid. No late bids will be accepted. All bids must be in sealed envelopes with the wording “Well for the Building Trades Home." No oral proposals will be accepted. 77571504 The Board of Education reserves the right to accept any item in the bid; to accept or reject any bid or all bids; to waive any informality therein; or for reasons of establishing uniformity, to award the contract to other than the low bidders. If either a unit price or extended price is obviously in error or the other is obviously correct, the incorrect price will be disregarded. Please send all bids to: Delton Kellogg Schools Attn: Paul Blacken, Superintendent 327 N. Grove St. Delton Kellogg Schools “Well for the Building Trades Home." 77571616 For questions regarding this RFP, please contact Rollie Ferris at rferris@dkschools.org or 269-998-1664 Public Notice The proposed budget of the Barry Conservation District for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2012 will be presented to the District Board for final approval at the regular monthly meeting on Friday, October 19, 2012 at 7:30 a.m. at the Deckside Room of Pennock Hospital, Hastings. The Public is invited to comment on the proposed budget at this time. Copies of the proposed budget are available at the District office located at 1611 S. Hanover, Suite 105, Hastings (Secretary of State Building) 77571614 was in his last year,” relates John Fehsenfeld, who’s now retired but still living in the area to which he moved more than 30 years ago. “He had signed a five-year contract in which teachers received an annual cost of living allowance and, when the economy turned, the bottom fell out. “My observation is that it was the union — not the teachers — that did not want to renegotiate the contract. It was kind of the end of an era. The negotiating end of education changed the perspective of teachers from aligning with their superintendents and their boards of education to the unions.” Though the only year in which they worked together was a difficult one for Guenther, Fehsenfeld says he still had ample opportunities to see the brilliance in the man. “He was strong, but compassionate,” recalls Fehsenfeld. “He was able to make difficult decisions, and he tried very much, when a decision had an adverse effect on a person, to soften it. Dick had the ability to see another person’s point of view.” Sometimes that ability worked to Guenther’s personal advantage as he calculated another’s perspective and used that framework to accomplish the goal he sought. Dave Wilcox still laughs about the encounter he had with Guenther when Wilcox asked about the three-mile-per-day walking regimen Guenther’s doctor mandated after detecting some possible heart issues. “I asked him how he was feeling and how he was doing with the walking program,” says Wilcox, “and he says ‘I’m feeling great, better than ever.’ ‘So,’ I said, ‘the walking program is really helping then,’ and that’s when he told me, ‘No, I changed doctors — I don’t have to walk any more.’” As a fellow Marine, Gibson is certain that Guenther was moving at a different pace when he was among the American serviceman storming the famous island of Iwo Jima during World War II. “He was probably in the lead at Iwo Jima,” says Gibson of an image that many who knew him liken to the leadership he brought to his profession and to his community. “Some people have it, some don’t have it, and the rest try to fake it.” For anyone lucky enough to have known Dick Guenther, there’s no doubting what he had. Call anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads 269-945-9554 The Thornapple Players will present SHAKESPEARE’S COMEDY A Midsummer Night’s Dream on October 10 is dress rehearsal but open to the public-all seats are $5 and October 11, 12, 13 at 7:00 pm and October 14 at 2:00 pm at the Barry Community Enrichment Center Located at 231 South Broadway (formerly Leason Sharpe Hall) in Hastings Tickets available at the door or from Progressive Graphics Tickets are $8 for adults and $6 for senior citizens (62 and over) and students. 07610463 Dick Guenther established a reputation for the Hastings Area Schools as a prized system in which to work. Here, he’s pictured with 1976 retirees (from left) Irene Babcock, Grace Shirkey, Helen Kessler, Stanley Stauffer, Dorotha Cummings and Vaughn Lydy. stroke of a pen, Guenther had that changed — and again created a paradigm by which districts all over the state were measured. His loyalty to the people who worked for him and to the people of the community for whom he worked was not a job requirement, it was a Dick Guenther lifestyle. As this Saturday’s birthday approached, Guenther realized that his driver’s license would expire and, without a legal identification, he would not be able to vote in the upcoming Nov. 6 general election. Guenther insisted that his wife, Joyce, drive him to the secretary of state’s office where, with great difficulty, he walked in and was properly registered. It was his last official act as a citizen. Returning to the car, he collapsed and was driven to Pennock Hospital where he died. “He made me want to stay in Hastings and teach for 30 years,” says Gibson of Guenther’s inspiration and loyalty. “You’ll never find another superintendent that will welcome you to that point. He was always positive, always working for the common good and always able to persuade normally selfish people toward that goal.” Retired Hastings businessman Richard Groos was on the Hastings board of education in the 1970s and early 1980s, while Guenther was superintendent. “I served on the school board with him in the early 1980s, which proved to be a pivotal time for him,” recalls Groos. “There was a rather strong union movement with talk of a strike at the time. He and I arranged a gathering whereby we invited everyone in town to the high school gym to ask questions about the school district and its operations. The place was packed. We spent the next five hours answering all the questions the people had. At the end, only Dick Guenther and I were there.” During that meeting and on other occasions, Groos says Guenther was a natural mediator. “He was extremely diplomatic. I was much more direct,” relates Groos. “I would say something and get myself into trouble, and he would ease me out of it. He was very diplomatic.” Groos says that through their professional relationship they developed a friendship that lasted over the decades. “He was a very, very apt administrator and also a great friend,” concludes Groos. Ironically, some believe, it was the teachers he held in such high esteem who, after being allowed by the state to form into powerful negotiating bloc associations, began the concluding days of not only Guenther’s career but that of the traditional school superintendent, as well. “I came to Hastings in 1981 as the intermediate school district superintendent and Dick When he was left a widower with nine children after first wife, Linda, died, Dick Guenther gave up smoking because of the responsibility he felt in seeing his family to adulthood. When he married Joyce, the two added three more children to the mix, making 12 children, 36 grandchildren, and nine great grandchildren between them. RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF HEARING ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS PLEASE TAKE NOTICE The Rutland Charter Township Zoning Board of Appeals will conduct a hearing on Tuesday, October 30, 2012, commencing at 7:30 p.m. at the Rutland Charter Township Hall, 2461 Heath Road, Hastings. • To act upon a request for a variance on the property located at 251 N M-37 Hwy, Hastings, to construct an addition to a pole barn closer to side property lines than zoning setbacks allow. Property is described as: RUTLAND TWP BEG AT PT ON W LI LOT 11 SUPERVISOR PLAT GREEN MEADOWS # 1 221 FT S 0F NW COR SD LOT TH N 221 FT TH SELY AL SWLY LI HWY M-37 TO NELY COR LOT 10 TH S 207 FT AL E LI LOT 10 TH NWLY TO POB. You are invited to attend this hearing. If you are unable to attend, written comments may be submitted in lieu of a personal appearance by writing to the Township Clerk at the Township Hall, 2461 Heath Road, Hastings, MI 49058, at any time up to the date of the hearing and may be further received by the Zoning Board of Appeals at said public hearing. The application for the above request is available for inspection at the Rutland Charter Township Hall during regular business hours. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that upon reasonable notice to the Rutland Charter Township Clerk, the Township will provide necessary, reasonable auxiliary aids and services at the hearing to individuals with disabilities. Individuals requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Township Clerk at the address or telephone number listed below. All interested persons are invited to be present for comments and suggestions at this public hearing. ROBIN HAWTHORNE, CLERK RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP 2461 HEATH ROAD, HASTINGS, MI 49058 77571566 (269) 948-2194 �Page 10 — Thursday, October 11, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Monte K. Sauers, a married man and Joy A. Sauers, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated October 25, 2006, and recorded on November 13, 2006 in instrument 1172609, and assigned by said Mortgagee to CitiMortgage, Inc. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fifty-Eight Thousand Nine Hundred Ninety-Two and 15/100 Dollars ($158,992.15). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on October 25, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Assyria, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The East 30 acres of the South 1/2 of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 10, Town 1 North, Range 7 West, Except beginning at the Southeast corner of said Section, thence West on the South Section line 511 feet 3 inches; thence North parallel with the East Section line 255 feet 6 inches; thence East to East Section line 511 feet 3 inches; thence South on East Section line 255 feet 6 inches to place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: September 27, 2012 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #290314F02 (09-27)(10-18) 77571185 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Erin E. Hall and Gary N. Hall, wife and husband, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated March 23, 2004, and recorded on April 1, 2004 in instrument 1124511, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Flagstar Bank, FSB as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ten Thousand Six Hundred Seventy-Three and 80/100 Dollars ($110,673.80). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on October 25, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Part of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 19, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, described as: Beginning at a point on the North Section line; thence North 89 degrees 20 minutes 58 seconds East, 800 feet from the Northwest corner of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West, parallel with the West line of said Section 289.00 feet; thence North 89 degrees 20 minutes 58 seconds East, parallel with the North line of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 19, 256.00 feet; thence North 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East 289.00 feet; thence South 89 degrees 20 minutes 58 seconds West on said North line 256.00 feet to the Place of Beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: September 27, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #408547F01 77571151 (09-27)(10-18) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Scott Edgerton, A Single Man to Ameriquest Mortgage Company, Mortgagee, dated September 1, 2004 and recorded September 13, 2004 in Instrument # 1133833 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned through mesne assignments to: HouseHold Finance Corporation, III, by assignment dated February 24, 2012 and recorded February 27, 2012 in Instrument # 201202270001953 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy Thousand Eight Hundred Fifty-Two Dollars and Fifty-One Cents ($70,852.51) including interest at 8.30% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on November 1, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot number eight (8) of Vickery's Lakeside Park, in the Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof and Lot nine(9) and the East seventy-four (74) feet of lot number thirty-four (34), all of Vickery's Lakeside Park, in the Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded Plat thereof. Subject to conditions, restrictions and easements of record. Commonly known as 1173 Cottage nka 10144 Cottage and 857 Watts, Dowling MI 49050 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated:10/4/2012 HouseHold Finance Corporation, III, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-66423 77571435 (10-04)(10-25) NOTICE TO THE RESIDENTS OF BARRY COUNTY Notice is hereby given that the Barry County Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing for the following: Tabled Case Number SP-6-2012 Dennis & Deborah Hutchings, (property owners) Location: A vacant parcel on the North side of Fruin Road near the intersection of North Avenue in Section 13 of Johnstown Township Purpose: Requesting a special use permit for an adult foster care home per Section 2307 in the RR (Rural Residential) zoning district. Case Number SP-8-2012 - Robert Bender Sr., (property owners) Location: 5524 Barryville Road in Section 7 of Maple Grove Township Purpose: Requesting a special use permit for a Cemetery per Section 2317 in the A (Agricultural) zoning district. Case Number SP-9-12 - Curtis and Joan Petrak, (property owners) Location: 3790 Grange Road in section 27 of Irving Township Purpose: Requesting a Special Use permit for an accessory dwelling per Section 2305 in the RR (Rural Residential) Zoning district MEETING DATE: October 22, 2012. TIME: 7:00 PM PLACE: Community Room, Courts & Law Building at 206 West Court St, Hastings MI. Site inspections of the above described properties will be completed by the Planning Commission members before the day of the hearing. Interested persons desiring to present their views upon an appeal either verbally or in writing will be given the opportunity to be heard at the above mentioned time and place. Any written response may be mailed to the address listed below, faxed to (269) 948-4820 or emailed to jmcmanus@barrycounty.org. The special use applications are available for public inspection at the Barry County Planning Office, 220 West State Street, Hastings Michigan 49058 during the hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed between 12-1 p.m.); Monday thru Friday. Please call the Planning Office at (269) 945-1290 for further information. The County of Barry will provide necessary auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/hearing upon ten (10) days notice to the County of Barry. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the County of Barry by writing or calling the following: Michael Brown, County Administrator, 220 West State Street, Hastings MI 49058, (269) 945-1284. 7757157599 Pamela A. Jarvis, Barry County Clerk FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: James E. Richard and Tammy A. Richard, husband and wife to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Flagstar Bank, FSB, its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated April 30, 2008 and recorded May 8, 2008 in Instrument # 20080508-0004963 and modified by agreement recorded May 23, 2012 in Instrument # 2012-000475 Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage was assigned to: Flagstar Bank, FSB, by assignment dated September 30, 2011 and recorded October 13, 2011in Instrument # 201110130009587 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Five Thousand Sixty Dollars and Two Cents ($125,060.02) including interest 3.875% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on October 18, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Part of Lots 11 and 24 of Culberts Plat No. 3, and land adjacent to Culberts Plat No.3 in Section 33, Town 4 North, Range 8 West, Carlton Township, Barry County, Michigan, commencing at the North one fourth post of said Section 33, thence South 00 degrees 51 minutes West 501.87 feet (501.87 measured) thence North 88 degrees 51 minutes West 440 feet (North 88 degrees 55 minutes West 439.91 measured) thence South 00 degrees 51 minutes West 312.50 feet (312.72 measured) the South line of said Lot 24, thence North 88 degrees 51 minutes West 96.21 feet (96.40 measured) to the Southwest corner of said Lot 24, thence North 12 degrees 21 minutes West 238.55 feet (238.23 measured) to the Northwest corner of said Lot 24, thence North 24 degrees 40 minutes West 50.24 feet (North 24 degrees 38 minutes West 50.34 measured) along the Easterly line of said Lot 11, thence South 80 degrees 42 minutes West 185.65 feet (185.70 measured) to the Westerly line of said Lot 11, thence North 24 degrees 40 minutes West (North 24 degrees 36 minutes West measured) 71.79 feet to the Northwest corner of Lot 11, thence North 65 degrees 20 minutes East (North 65 degrees 16 minutes East measured) 9.90 feet thence South 88 degrees 51 minutes East (South 88 degrees 55 minutes East measured) 377.18 feet to the place of beginning, Barry County Records. Commonly known as 39 Culbert Dr, Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 9/20/2012 Flagstar Bank, FSB, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-68521 (09-20)(10-11) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Judy A Gray Loy, An Unmarried Woman to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for American Sterling Bank its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated October 29, 2007 and recorded November 13, 2007 in Instrument # 20071113-0004079 Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage was assigned to: BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P., by assignment dated August 4, 2010 and recorded August 9, 2010 in Instrument # 201008090007410 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Two Thousand Nine Hundred Ninety-Seven Dollars and Ninety-One Cents ($82,997.91) including interest 3.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on October 25, 2012 Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North 50 feet of Lot 82 of Mix Addition to the Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof; also commencing 23 feet North of the Southeast corner of said Lot 82, Mix Addition to the Village of Nashville; thence East 28 feet; North 50 feet; West 28 feet; South 50 feet to the place of beginning. Subject to and together with; an easement for the purposes of ingress and egress over the following portion of Lot 82 of the Mix Addition to the Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof, beginning at the Northwest corner of said lot and thence Easterly along the lot line 100 feet, Southerly 6 feet parallel to Phillips Street, thence Westerly 100 feet to the West line of said lot, and thence Northerly 6 feet to the place of beginning. This easement intended for the purposes of establishing a joint driveway, for the purpose of ingress and egress only between Lots 82 and 83 of Mix Addition, without the rights to park or otherwise block this easement. Also subject to and together with; an easement for the purposes of ingress and egress over the following portion of Lot 83 of the Mix Addition to the Village of Nashville, according to the recorded plat thereof, beginning in the Southwest corner of said lot, thence Easterly along the lot line 100 feet, thence Northerly 6 feet parallel to Phillips Street, thence Westerly 100 feet to the West line of said lot, and thence Southerly to the place of beginning. This easement intended for the purpose of ingress and egress only between Lots 82 and 83 of the Mix Addition, without the rights to park otherwise block or use this easement. Commonly known as 116 Phillips St, Nashville MI 49073 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 9/27/2012 Bank of America, N.A. successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P., fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, LP Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-68833 (09-27)(10-18) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Cathleen S. Tibble, an unmarried woman, to Option One Mortgage Corporation, a California Corporation, Mortgagee, dated January 17, 2003 and recorded January 24, 2003 in Instrument Number 1096135, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Trustee for Option One Mortgage Loan Trust 2003-2, AssetBacked Certificates, Series 2003-2 by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Four Thousand Two Hundred Four and 24/100 Dollars ($94,204.24) including interest at 8.15% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 10/18/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: CR/A parcel of land in the Southeast 1/4 of Section 14, Town 4 North, Range 8 West, Described as: Commencing at the Southwest corner of the West 1/2 of the Northeast 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 14; thence North 166 feet; thence East 400 feet, more or less, to the Shore of the Lake; thence South to the South side of said Northeast 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4; thence West to the beginning, except the South 24 feet thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: September 20, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 356.4378 77571101 (09-20)(10-11) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Virgil D. Walters Jr and Judy L. Walters, husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated October 22, 2004 and recorded November 15, 2004 in Instrument Number 1137258, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Wells Fargo Bank, NA by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Three Thousand Nine Hundred Forty-Three and 90/100 Dollars ($93,943.90) including interest at 6.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 11/08/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Barry County, Michigan: The South 209.00 feet of the North 627.00 feet of the East 365.00 feet of the Northeast 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 25, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, Hope Township, Barry County, Michigan. subject to the right of way over the East 33 feet thereof for Gurd Road. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: October 11, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 326.9846 77571607 (10-11)(11-01) 77571141 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Steven Hard, a married man and Patricia Hard, a married woman, to CitiMortgage, Inc., successor by merger with ABN Amro Mortgage Group, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 1, 2002 and recorded April 4, 2002 in Instrument Number 1077672, Barry County Records, Michigan. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Three Thousand Eight Hundred Fifty-Four and 80/100 Dollars ($93,854.80) including interest at 6.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 10/18/2012 Said premises are located in the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, described as follows: Lot 937 of the City, formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: September 20, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 671.3827 77571122 (09-20)(10-11) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF A MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on April 23, 1996, by David C. Wingeier and Nancy M. Wingeier, husband and wife, and Ronald D. Berg and Carolyn P. Berg, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, given by them to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on April 25, 1996, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Liber 658, Page 131, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank by an Assignment of Mortgage dated July 20, 2012, recorded on July 26, 2012, in Instrument Number 2012-002579, Barry County Records, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of Fifty-Two Thousand Six Hundred NinetyFour and 53/100 Dollars ($52,694.53); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, October 25, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF ORANGEVILLE, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: Commencing at the Southwest corner of the Northeast quarter of the Northeast quarter of Section 9, Town 2 North, Range 10 West, running thence Northerly 450 feet along the East one-eighth line of said Section 9; thence Easterly 10 feet at right angles; thence Northerly 232 feet parallel with said East one-eighth line for the true place of beginning; thence continuing Northerly 232 feet parallel with said East oneeighth line; thence Southeasterly to a point in the centerline of Lindsey Road which lies 779 feet Northeasterly from the intersection of said centerline and the North one-eighth line of said Section 9; thence Southwesterly 220 feet along the centerline; thence Northwesterly to the place of beginning, Orangeville Township, Barry County, Michigan. Commonly known as: 5180 Lindsey Road, Delton, Michigan 49046 Parcel Number: 08-11-009-013-75 The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: August 22, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933 (517) 371-8253 29293:00117:1414250-1 (09-20)(10-11) 77571087 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 11, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Curtis M. Kenyon, A Married Man and Melisaa L. Kenyon, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 2, 2005, and recorded on August 12, 2005 in instrument 1151038, and assigned by said Mortgagee to THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-12 as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-One Thousand Five Hundred Sixty-Five and 25/100 Dollars ($81,565.25). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on November 1, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Castleton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land in the West one half of the Southwest one quarter of Section 28, Town 3 North, Range 7 West, described as beginning at the Southwest corner of said Section 28, thence North along the Center of the Highway 676 feet thence East 40 rods, thence South to the Center of Gregg's Crossing Road, thence West 40 rods to Place of Beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: October 4, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #412056F01 77571376 (10-04)(10-25) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage, made by MADISON D. HOWELL AND LINDA L. HOWELL, husband and wife, whose address is 3070 Madilin Lane, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagor, to MAINSTREET SAVINGS BANK, whose address was 629 W. State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as assigned in the Barry County Register of Deeds to Daemeon Richards and Jennifer Richards, whose address is P.O. Box 53, Hastings, Michigan 49058, and securing that certain Note between Madison D. Howell and Linda L. Howell, as Debtor and MainStreet Savings Bank, as Creditor, dated September 16, 2005, November 29, 2005 and May 6, 2003, and pursuant to that certain guarantee wherein Mortgagor, Madison D. Howell and Linda L. Howell, guaranteed the Note mentioned above and secured the guarantee with Mortgage described above. There is claimed to be due thereon, at the date of this notice, for principal and interest, the sum of SEVEN HUNDRED TWENTY-NINE THOUSAND EIGHT HUNDRED FIFTY-FOUR AND 25/100($729,854.25) Dollars with interest at the rate of 7.75%, as secured by the above-referenced mortgage as of this date. There also shall be attorney’s fees, unpaid real estate taxes and costs. And no proceedings having been instituted to recover the debt now remaining secured by said Mortgage, or any part thereof, whereby the power of sale contained in said Mortgage has become operative; NOW, THEREFORE, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that by virtue of the Power of Sale contained in said Mortgages, and in pursuance of the statute in such case made and provided, the above said Mortgage, will be foreclosed by a sale of the parcels of the premises therein described, or so much thereof as may be necessary, at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse, County of Barry, Michigan, that being the place of holding the Circuit Court in and for said County on the 15th day of November, 2012, at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, of said day and said premises will be sold to pay the amount so as aforesaid then due on said Mortgage, together with interest payable at the rate of 7.75%, together with late fees, legal costs, attorneys fees and also any taxes and insurance that said Mortgagee does pay on or prior to the date of said sale together with interest thereon as though on an open account at the rate of 5% per annum; which said premises are described in said Mortgage, to-wit: THE EAST 1/2 OF THE SOUTH 1/2 OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 30, TOWN 4 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST, CARLTON TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, EXCEPTING THEREFROM THE FOLLOWING: PART OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 30, TOWN 4 NORTH, CARLTON TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: COMMENCING AT THE EAST 1/4 CORNER OF SAID SECTION; THENCE NORTH 00°37’24” EAST 542.33 FEET ALONG THE EAST LINE OF SAID SECTION TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE NORTH 89°22’36” WEST 309.60 FEET; THENCE NORTH 00°18’04” WEST 265.03 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 89°22’36” EAST 313.87 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 00°37’24” WEST 265.00 FEET ALONG THE EAST LINE OF SAID SECTION TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING; NOW BEING A PART OF RED OAK ESTATES CONDOMINIUM, ACCORDING TO THE MASTER DEED RECORDED IN DOCUMENT NO. 1136354, AND AMENDMENTS THERETO, EXCEPTING THEREFROM UNITS 5, 6, 10, 11, 12 AND 13. The period of redemption will be six (6) months from date of sale. Dated: October 9, 2012 Nathan E. Tagg, Attorney for Daemeon and Jennifer Richards Drafted by: Nathan E. Tagg (P68994) Tripp & Tagg, Attorneys at Law 206 South Broadway Hastings, Michigan 49058 77571637 (269) 948-2900 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF A MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on June 23, 2008, by Daniel P. Buerge, a single man, as Mortgagor, given by him to First National Bank of America, whose address is 241 E. Saginaw Hwy., Suite 600, P.O. Box 980, East Lansing, Michigan 48826-0980, as Mortgagee, and recorded on June 27, 2008, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 20080627-0006666, which mortgage has been assigned to Rose Acceptance, Inc., on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of Forty-Two Thousand One Hundred Ninety-Seven and 33/100 Dollars ($42,197.33); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, October 25, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF HOPE, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: Lots 12 and 13 of Oakridge Shores, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 89, being a part of the Northeast fractional quarter of Section 19, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, Hope Township. Commonly known as: 322 Lakeside Drive, Delton, Michigan 49046. Tax parcel number: 08-07-240009-00. The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: September 19, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. ROSE ACCEPTANCE, INC. Benjamin J. Price of East Lansing, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933 (517) 371-8253 (09-20)(10-11) 77571111 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT; ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY SERVICE PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW. Notice under MCL 600.3278: Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale under MCL 600.3201 et. seq., the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. ATTENTION POTENTIAL PURCHASERS AT FORECLOSURE SALE: In the case of resolution prior to or simultaneously with the aforementioned foreclosure sale, U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate Trust 1999-2, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents, may rescind this sale at any time prior to the end of the redemption period. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited to the return of your bid amount tendered at the sale, plus interest. Default having occurred in the conditions of a Mortgage made by Ruth A. Eggleston and Terry L. Eggleston ("Mortgagor"), to Green Tree Servicing LLC (f/k/a Green Tree Financial Servicing Corporation), dated October 9, 1998, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry in the State of Michigan on October 12, 1998, in Document Number 1019220, et. seq., said Mortgage being last assigned to U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate Trust 1999-2 ("Green Tree"), by Mortgage Assignment dated April 2, 2012, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry in the State of Michigan on April 11, 2012, in Document Number 201204120004425, et. seq., on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due as of the date of this Notice the sum of $120,631.10, which amount may or may not be the entire indebtedness owed by Debtors to Green Tree together with interest at 6.75 percent per annum. NOW THEREFORE, Notice is hereby given that the power of sale contained in said Mortgage has become operative and that pursuant to that power of sale and MCL 600.3201 et. seq., on November 15, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., on the East steps of the Circuit Court Building in Hastings, Michigan, that being the place for holding the Circuit Court and/or for conducting such foreclosure sales for the County of Barry, there will be offered at public sale, the premises, or some part thereof, described in said Mortgage as follows, to-wit: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF RUTLAND, COUNTY OF BARRY, STATE OF MICHIGAN, IS DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE SOUTH LINE OF SECTION 9, TOWN 3 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, DISTANT SOUTH 89 DEGREES 07' 54" WEST, 439.05 FEET FROM THE SOUTH 1/4 POST OF SAID SECTION 9; THENCE SOUTH 89 DEGREES 07' 54" WEST, 439.06 FEET ALONG SAID SOUTH LINE; THENCE NORTH 02 DEGREES 49' 32" WEST, 791.67 FEET; THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES 13' 22" EAST, 439.35 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 02 DEGREES 48' 24" EAST, 790.97 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING; SUBJECT TO AN EASEMENT FOR PUBLIC HIGHWAY PURPOSES OVER THE SOUTHERLY 33 FEET THEREOF. which also includes any interest Green Tree may have in the 1998 MFGD Housing Mobile Home, Serial Number M0308512. The redemption period shall be six (6) months unless the property is established to be abandoned pursuant to MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of sale or fifteen (15) days from the date the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(b) was posted and mailed, or unless under MCL 600.3240(17), prior to the foreclosure sale the borrower follows the procedure set forth in that section to establish the presumption that the property is used for Agricultural purposes, in which case the redemption period shall be one (1) year from the date of the sale. Dated: October 4, 2012 U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate PassThrough Certificate Trust 1999-2, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents By: DONALD A. BRANDT (P30183) BRANDT, FISHER, ALWARD & PEZZETTI, P.C. Attorneys for Green Tree 1241 E. Eighth Street, P.O. Box 5817 Traverse City, Michigan 49696-5817 (231) 941-9660 File No.: 6140.1100 Ad #39457 10/11, 10/18, 10/25, 77571568 11/01/2012 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage, made by MADISON D. HOWELL AND LINDA L. HOWELL, husband and wife, whose address is 3070 Madilin Lane, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagor, to MAINSTREET SAVINGS BANK, whose address was 629 W. State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as assigned in the Barry County Register of Deeds to Daemeon Richards and Jennifer Richards, whose address is P.O. Box 53, Hastings, Michigan 49058, and securing that certain Note between Madison D. Howell and Linda L. Howell, as Debtor and MainStreet Savings Bank, as Creditor, dated September 16, 2005, November 29, 2005 and May 6, 2003, and pursuant to that certain guarantee wherein Mortgagor, Madison D. Howell and Linda L. Howell, guaranteed the Note mentioned above and secured the guarantee with Mortgage described above. There is claimed to be due thereon, at the date of this notice, for principal and interest, the sum of SEVEN HUNDRED TWENTY-NINE THOUSAND EIGHT HUNDRED FIFTY-FOUR AND 25/100($729,854.25) Dollars with interest at the rate of 7.75%, as secured by the above-referenced mortgage as of this date. There also shall be attorney’s fees, unpaid real estate taxes and costs. And no proceedings having been instituted to recover the debt now remaining secured by said Mortgage, or any part thereof, whereby the power of sale contained in said Mortgage has become operative; NOW, THEREFORE, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that by virtue of the Power of Sale contained in said Mortgages, and in pursuance of the statute in such case made and provided, the above said Mortgage, will be foreclosed by a sale of the parcels of the premises therein described, or so much thereof as may be necessary, at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse, County of Barry, Michigan, that being the place of holding the Circuit Court in and for said County on the 15th day of November, 2012, at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, of said day and said premises will be sold to pay the amount so as aforesaid then due on said Mortgage, together with interest payable at the rate of 7.75%, together with late fees, legal costs, attorneys fees and also any taxes and insurance that said Mortgagee does pay on or prior to the date of said sale together with interest thereon as though on an open account at the rate of 5% per annum; which said premises are described in said Mortgage, to-wit: THE NORTH 1/2 OF THE WEST 1/2 OF THE SOUTH 1/2 OF THE NORTHEAST 1\4 OF SECTION 30, TOWN 4 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST, CARLTON TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN. The period of redemption will be six (6) months from date of sale. Dated: October 9, 2012 Nathan E. Tagg, Attorney for Daemeon and Jennifer Richards Drafted by: Nathan E. Tagg (P68994) Tripp & Tagg, Attorneys at Law 206 South Broadway Hastings, Michigan 49058 77571632 (269) 948-2900 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Shane S.A. Gerard, a single man, to NPB Mortgage, LLC, Mortgagee, dated August 27, 2007 and recorded September 12, 2007 in Instrument Number 20070912-0001949, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Cenlar FSB by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fourteen Thousand Eight Hundred Thirty-Four and 79/100 Dollars ($114,834.79) including interest at 7.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 11/01/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The East 85.27 feet of Lot 27, and the West 23 feet of Lot 28, Supervisor's Plat Number 1, Yankee Springs Township, Barry County, Michigan, as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, Page 77. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: October 4, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 275.0708 77571445 (10-04)(10-25) Case No. 12-109-CH CIRCUIT COURT SALE In pursuance and by virtue of a Judgment of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on the 23rd day of August, A.D., 2012 in a certain cause therein pending, wherein The Bank of New York Mellon fka The Bank of New York, as Trustee for the Certificateholders of CWABS, Inc., Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2004-10 was the Plaintiff and Stephen Vandermade, Tracy Vandermade, Household Finance Corporation III the Defendant(s). NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that I shall sell at public auction to the highest bidder, at public venue, at the Barry County Circuit Court (that being the place of holding the Circuit Court for said County), on the 6th day of December, A.D., 2012 at 1:00 o’clock in the afternoon, Eastern Standard Time, the following described property, viz: All certain piece or parcel of land situated in the City of Hastings, County of Barry and State of Michigan, described as follows: Lot 80 of Hastings Heights, according to the recorded Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 41. Tax I.D. 08-55-055048-00 Commonly known as: 1527 North Michigan Avenue, Hastings, MI 49058 This property may be redeemed during the six (6) months following the sale. Dated: October 11, 2012 Sheriff Dar Leaf Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Ronald S. Glaser (P46986) Attorneys for Plaintiff 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 (248) 335-9200 (10-11)(11-22) 77571583 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Richard J. Meade and Shawnda L. Meade, husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated September 26, 2006 and recorded October 2, 2006 in Instrument Number 1170796, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by The Bank of New York Mellon f/k/a The Bank of New York as successor trustee for JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Trustee for the benefit of the Certificate holders of Popular ABS, Inc. Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates Series 2006-E by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fifty-Five Thousand Eight Hundred Thirty-Two and 14/100 Dollars ($155,832.14) including interest at 8.38% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 10/18/2012 Said premises are located in the Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That certain parcel of land situated in the Village of Nashville, Castleton Township, Barry County, Michigan, more particularly described as: A parcel of land in the Northwest 1/4 and the Northeast 1/4 of Section 36, Town 3 North, Range 7 West, Village of Nashville, Castleton Township, Barry County, Michigan, the surveyed boundary of said parcel described as: Commencing at the intersection of the East line of Lentz Street and the North line of Reed Street; thence East along said North line 255.00 feet to the point of beginning of this description; thence North perpendicular to said North line 168.15 feet to a point on an intermediate traverse line, said point being South 18 feet more or less from the water's edge of the Thornapple River; thence N64ø34'49"E along said intermediate traverse line 108.73 feet to a point South 23 feet more or less from said waters edge; thence South perpendicular to said North line 41.46 feet; thence East parallel with said North line 3.80 feet; thence South perpendicular to said North line 173.36 feet; thence West 102.00 feet to the point of beginning; including lands lying between the intermediate traverse line and the water's edge of the Thornapple River. Together with a non-exclusive easement for the purposes of ingress and egress over a parcel described as: Commencing at the intersection of the North line of Reed Street with the East line of Lentz Street in the Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan; thence East 357 feet for a place of beginning; thence North 180 feet; thence East 20 feet; thence South 180 feet; thence West 20 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: September 20, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 189.4797 77571106 (09-20)(10-11) SYNOPSIS ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING October 2, 2012 Meeting called to order at 7:00. All board members present. Approved minutes from the September 4, 2012 minutes. Treasurer’s report read and put on file. Fire report read and put on file. County Commissioner’s report read. Library report read. Parks and Recreation report read. Public Comment received. Approved motion to establish an ordinance to regulate truck traffic. Approved motion to hire Taffee Painting to paint the township hall. Approved motion to purchase property at 6841 Boulter Rd., in the amount of $12,000. Approved Motion to pay the bills in the amount of $11,146.28. Approved motion to adjourn. Respectfully submitted, Jennifer Goy, Clerk 77571450 Attested to by Thomas Rook, Supervisor FORECLOSURE NOTICE RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES, P.C. MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. Mortgage Sale - Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by Dennis J. Coughlin and Lucinda A. Coughlin, Husband and Wife to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., acting solely as nominee for Amerifirst Financial Corporation, Mortgagee, dated March 19, 2009, and recorded on March 25, 2009, as Document Number: 200903250002673, Barry County Records, said mortgage was assigned to Bank of America, N.A. by an Assignment of Mortgage dated April 23, 2012 and recorded May 08, 2012 by Document Number: 201205080005351, , on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Seventy-One Thousand Nine Hundred Five and 34/100 ($271,905.34) including interest at the rate of 5.00000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the Circuit Court in said Barry County, where the premises to be sold or some part of them are situated, at 01:00 PM on October 18, 2012 Said premises are situated in the Township of PRAIRIEVILLE, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A PARCEL OF LAND IN THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 26, TOWN 1 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST, DESCRIBED AS: BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE NORTH AND SOUTH QUARTER LINE OF SAID SECTION 26, DISTANCE SOUTH 00 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, 1582.46 FEET FROM THE NORTH QUARTER POST OF SAID SECTION 26; THENCE CONTINUING SOUTH 00 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST ALONG SAID NORTH AND SOUTH QUARTER LINE, 330.00 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 90 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST, AT RIGHT ANGLES TO SAID NORTH AND SOUTH QUARTER LINE, 660.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 63 DEGREES 40 MINUTES 33 SECONDS WEST, 493.85 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 90 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST, 660.00 FEET TO THE CENTER OF NORRIS ROAD; THENCE NORTH 19 DEGREES 05 MINUTES 53 SECONDS WEST ALONG SAID CENTERLINE OF NORRIS ROAD, 940.00 FEET TO A POINT WHICH LIES SOUTH 00 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, 805.2 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 90 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST, 2070.19 FEET FROM THE NORTH QUARTER POST OF SAID SECTION 26; THENCE NORTH 90 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, 660.0 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 43 DEGREES 59 MINUTES 05 SECONDS EAST, 1080.24 FEET; THENCE NORTH 90 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, 660.00 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. EXCEPT: A PARCEL OF LAND IN THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 26, TOWN 1 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST, DESCRIBED AS: BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE NORTH AND SOUTH QUARTER LINE OF SAID SECTION 26, DISTANT SOUTH 00 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, 1582.46 FEET FROM THE NORTH QUARTER POST OF SAID SECTION 26; THENCE CONTINUING SOUTH 00 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, ALONG SAID NORTH AND SOUTH QUARTER LINE, 330.00 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 90 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST AT RIGHT ANGLES TO SAID NORTH AND SOUTH QUARTER LINE, 660.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 00 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECODNS WEST, 330.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 90 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, 660.00 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. TOGETHER WITH AN EASEMENT NON-EXCLUSIVE FOR INGRESS AND EGRESS OF THE NORTH 66 FEET OF ABOVE DESCRIPTION. Commonly known as: 14604 LOCKSHORE ROAD If the property is eventually sold at foreclosure sale, the redemption period will be 6.00 months from the date of sale unless the property is abandoned or used for agricultural purposes. If the property is determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 and/or 600.3241a, the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of sale, or 15 days after statutory notice, whichever is later. If the property is presumed to be used for agricultural purposes prior to the date of the foreclosure sale pursuant to MCL 600.3240, the redemption period is 1 year. Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages are, if any, limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: September 20, 2012 Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Bank of America, N.A. 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302, (248) 335-9200 Case No. 12MI02876-1 (09-20)(10-11) 77571136 �Page 12 — Thursday, October 11, 2012 — The Hastings Banner BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY by Gerald Stein NORTH N: 10 8 7 6 5 M: J 2 L: A Q 6 K: J 10 5 WEST EAST N: J 9 3 M: K 10 9 3 L: 10 7 4 K: A 8 2 N: A 2 M: Q 8 6 5 4 L: J 9 8 2 K: 4 3 SOUTH: N: K Q 4 M: A 7 L: K 5 3 K: K Q 9 7 6 Dealer: North Vulnerable: East/West Lead: 10M North Pass 2M 2NT Pass East Pass Pass Pass Pass South 1NT 2N 4N West Pass Pass Pass In today’s column, let us take a look at the bidding as well as the play of the hand, the two aspects of playing bridge successfully. A bridge player must not only bid well, but must also play the hand well. In today’s hand, check to see if North/South both bid the hand correctly and then check to see if North made a good plan to make the 4N contact After two passes, South opened the bidding with a strong one no trump bid, promising his partner North that he had a balanced hand with 15-17 high card points. While South does have all four suits stopped in this hand, it is not necessary to have that kind of control. Usually having three suits blocked with a balanced hand and the requisite points is enough to open the bidding at one no trump. After all, what is a partner for if not to be there for the fourth suit? After a pass from West, North used the Jacoby Transfer Convention, a partnership agreement between North and South, to transfer his five spades to his partner by bidding one suit under the spade suit. North bid two hearts, informing his partner that he had five spades and required South to bid the spade suit immediately. It is a forcing bid, and a good partnership honors the agreement. The benefits of the Jacoby Transfer Convention are most obvious: North was able to tell his partner South about his five spades, knowing that South must have at least two spades in his hand to make the opening one no trump bid. (No voids or singletons for a no trump bid, and only one doubleton.) South bid the 2N bid as requested, and it was back to North who revealed more information about his hand. In this case, bidding 2NT now informed partner South that he had 8-9 high card points and was inviting South to consider game in either no trump or spades. With three spades and at the top of the no trump range with 17 high card points, South readily bid 4N, and the bidding was complete. So far, the North/South team had done everything right, but this is only one-half of the bridge game. The play of the hand is next. The lead was up to West who had listened to the bidding as all defenders must do. West picked the 10M as her lead. This was an excellent lead, the top of an interior sequence, suggesting to her partner East that she had the 9M below the ten and that she might have something above the ten. In this case, the KM was the missing card. South surveyed the dummy hand and duly thanked his partner North. Pausing for time to make a plan was second nature to South by this time in his bridge career. Instead of counting winners as is the case in a no trump contract and trying to figure out how you can win addition- al tricks, in a trump suit, the opposite approach is the way to make the plan. South must count not the winners, but the losers in both hands and figure out how to make those losers go away if there are too many or how to take enough tricks to make the contract. South knew his objective was to take ten tricks with spades as trump. He could afford only three losers, or the contract would be defeated. South counted the losers before he called for even one card. What were his losers? With an eight-card trump fit, South knew that a bad trump split of 41 or 5-0 would be disastrous. Hoping for the normal percentages of a 3-2 trump split, South counted one spade loser, the AN. Looking next at the hearts, it was easy to see that there was one heart loser as well. The diamond suit was very solid, and there were no apparent losers in the diamond suit. There was a sure club loser of the AK for the third loser. If everything behaved as planned, North could be confident that he could bring home the contract of 4N for the partnership. With his plan in place, South was now ready to call for the play of the cards. Taking the AM first, and then crossing to a good diamond, South led a small spade toward his KN. The spade suit split 3-2 as hoped, and South lost the AK, the AN, and a heart. West’s good lead of the 10M paid off, as she used the KM immediately after East took the AN to limit the North/South team to their 10 tricks and no overtricks. Both teams played well on this hand. North/South bid and made their 4N contract through good bidding, a good plan, and a good play of the hand. East/West defended properly with an excellent defensive lead of an interior sequence, and they kept the North/South team to just what they deserved and no more. Answer to last week’s bridge question: Can the North/South team pick up another setting trick to defeat East/West even one more? The answer is yes if North does not lead out his AL and KL so quickly. North must lead a heart back to his partner who had a singleton. Then a trump on the heart lead from North puts East/West at minus 1400 points, a mighty score. ***** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS In the matter of: Jack S. Wood, deceased. Date of Birth: 10/31/1931. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, who was the grantor of the Jack S. Wood Trust established on January 21, 1997, (as first amended in part on November 19, 1997, amended in part on July 31, 1998, and amended in part on April 13, 2006), and who lived at: 7635 W. Hickory Road, Hickory Corners, MI 49060, died September 18, 2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the decedent and the decedent’s Trust will be forever barred unless presented to: Shirley A. Wood, Trustee, 7635 W. Hickory Rd., Hickory Corners, MI 49060 within 4 months after the date of publication of this Notice. This Notice is being published on Thursday, October 11, 2012. LENNON, MILLER, O’CONNOR & BARTOSIEWICZ, PLC Andrew J. Vorbrich P43943 900 Comerica Building Kalamazoo, MI 49007 77571595 (269) 381-8844 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTENTION PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE: Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage by Theodore Smith, a single man, original mortgagor(s), to Kellogg Community Federal Credit Union, Mortgagee, dated April 15, 2009, and recorded on April 21, 2009, at Instrument No. 20090421-0004312, in Barry County records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eighty-Seven Thousand Three Hundred Forty-Nine and 34/100 Dollars ($187,349.34), including interest at 6.0% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the lobby of the Barry County Circuit Court, 220 West State Street, Hastings, MI 49058 on Thursday, November 8, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. Said premises is situated in the Township of Johnstown, County of Barry, Michigan, and described as: Commencing at the center of Section 34, Town 1 North, Range 8 West, Johnstown Township, Barry County, Michigan; Thence South 21 rods to the center of M-37; Thence Southerly in the center of highway 16 rods to the point of beginning; Thence East 968 feet; Thence Southerly parallel to the center line of highway 732 feet; Thence West 968 feet to the center of the highway; thence Northerly along the center of highway 732 feet to the point of beginning. PPN: 09-034-017-10 More Commonly Known As: 15591 S M-37 Hwy, Battle Creek, MI 49017 The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be thirty (30) days from the date of such sale. Dated: October 1, 2012 For more information, please call: KELLOGG COMMUNITY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION Mark D. Hofstee (P66001) Bolhouse, Baar & Lefere, P.C. Grandville State Bank Building 3996 Chicago Drive SW Grandville MI 49418-1384 77571339 (616) 531-7711 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Social Security Number of Decedent: XXX-XX0114. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Your interest in the estate may be barred or affected by the following: The decedent, Jimmie Lou Kroes. Date of birth: 9/6/1927 whose last address was 9736 Brickyard Road, Delton, MI 49046 died on 5/25/2012. The decedent was the settlor of the Leonard G. Kroes & Jimmie Lou Kroes Living Trust dated 12/18/1997. There is no personal representative of the settlor’s estate to whom Letters of Authority have been issued. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the trust estate will be forever barred unless presented to the current acting trustee (whose name and address appear below) of the Trust within four (4) months of the date of publication of this notice. The current acting trustee is: Harriet Olson, 4301 Harrington Road, Delton, MI 49046. Notice is further given that the trust estate will be thereafter assigned and distributed to the persons entitled to it. Dated: 6/29/2012 Attorney for Trustee: David G. Ledbetter, P43671 Law Office of David G. Ledbetter 1695 Service Road NE Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503 77571578 (616) 459-3333 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-26119-DE Estate of Doris Keller-Robbins, Deceased. Date of birth: 01/24/1932. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Doris Keller-Robbins, who lived at 2166 Parker Drive, Wayland, Michigan died 05/06/2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Robert E. Lee, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West Court Street, Suite 302, Hastings and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 09/25/2012 Robert L. Byington P27621 222 West Apple Street, P.O. Box 248 Hastings, Michigan 49058 (269) 945-9557 Robert E. Lee 1520 Yekley Road 77571593 Hastings, Michigan 49058 Case No. 12-141-CH CIRCUIT COURT SALE In pursuance and by virtue of a Judgment of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on the 17th day of July A.D., 2012 in a certain cause therein pending, wherein THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-9 was the Plaintiff and Teresa Herlein and Duane T. Herlein were the Defendants. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that I shall sell at public auction to the highest bidder, at public venue, at the Barry County Courthouse (that being the place of holding the Circuit Court for said County), on the 29th day of November, A.D., 2012 at 1 pm o’clock in the forenoon, Eastern Standard Time, the following described property, viz: All certain piece or parcel of land situated in the Township of Thornapple, County of Barry and State of Michigan, described as follows: Lot 8, Near Lane Estates No. 1, as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats, Page 7, Barry County Records Tax ID: 14-140-0008-00 Commonly known as: 12942 Near Lane, Caledonia, MI 49316 This property may be redeemed during the six (6) months following the sale. Dated: October 4, 2012 Mark Sheldon Deputy Sheriff Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Ronald S. Glaser (P46986) Attorneys for Plaintiff 43252 Woodward Ave., Suite 180 Bloomfield Hills, MI 77571391 48302 (248) 335-9200 (10-04)(11-15) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Donald E Garrett and Autumn Garrett, Husband and Wife to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for Quicken Loans Inc. its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated September 22, 2006 and recorded September 26, 2006 in Instrument # 1170548 Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage was assigned to: Bank of America, N.A. successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, LP, by assignment dated June 21, 2012 and recorded July 2, 2012 in Instrument # 2012-001791 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fourteen Thousand Nine Hundred Thirteen Dollars and Eighteen Cents ($114,913.18) including interest 7.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on October 18, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Maple Grove, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land located in the North one-half of the South one-half of the Southeast one-quarter of Section 16, Town 2 North, Range 7 West, described as follows: beginning at a point on the East line of Section 16, which lies 983 feet North of the Southeast corner of said Section 16; thence South 88 degrees 23 minutes West 154 feet; thence South 323 feet parallel to the East section line; thence North 88 degrees 23 minutes East 154 feet; thence due North 323 feet to the place of beginning. Commonly known as 6810 Assyria Rd, Nashville MI 49073 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 9/20/2012 Bank of America, N.A. successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, LP, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-68444 (09-20)(10-11) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Dianne L. Schwiegershausen, An Unmarried Woman, original mortgagor(s), to Centex Home Equity Company, LLC, Mortgagee, dated May 4, 2005, and recorded on May 11, 2005 in instrument 1146275, and modified by Affidavit or Order executed on March 31, 2010 and recorded on April 12, 2010 in instrument 201004120003830, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Four Thousand Two Hundred Sixty-Seven and 19/100 Dollars ($124,267.19). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on November 1, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Woodland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North 12 rods and 10 feet of the Northeast one quarter of the Northeast one quarter of Section 7, Town 4 North, Range 7 West, except the East 12 Rod and 10 feet thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: October 4, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #188791F02 77571381 (10-04)(10-25) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Daniel L. Kramer, a married man, and Patricia L. Kramer, a married woman, original mortgagor(s), to Union Federal Bank of Indianapolis, Mortgagee, dated May 8, 2003, and recorded on May 15, 2003 in instrument 1104418, and assigned by said Mortgagee to MidFirst Bank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Six Thousand Seven Hundred Nineteen and 15/100 Dollars ($96,719.15). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on November 8, 2012. Said premises are situated in Hickory Corners, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the Township of Bary, County of Barry, State of Michigan: The West 443 feet of the South 1009 feet of the East 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 35, Town 1 North, Range 9 West The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: October 11, 2012 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #403049F02 77571498 (10-11)(11-01) 77571146 THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Gregory Young, a married man and Brandi Young, F/K/A Brandi Miller, his wife to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. , Mortgagee, dated October 8, 2008, and recorded October 28, 2008, in Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by GMAC Mortgage, LLC by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of $142,942.14 (one hundred fortytwo thousand nine hundred forty-two and 14/100) including interest at 3.75% (three point seven five) percent per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI at 1:00:00 PM on October 25, 2012. Said premises are located in the City of Hastings, Barry County Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, is described as follows: Situated in the City of Hastings, County of Barry and State of Michigan: Lot 57 of HASTINGS HEIGHTS, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats, Page 41 of Plats. Also the East 1/2 of vacated alley adjacent to said parcel on West side. Commonly known as: 1524 N. Jefferson Tax Parcel No.: 55-055-028-00 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, you may have certain rights. Dated: September 27, 2012 By: Foreclosing Attorneys Attorney for Plaintiff Weltman, Weinberg & Reis Co., L.P.A. 2155 Butterfield Drive Suite 200-S Troy, MI 48084 WWR# 10104638 77571232 (09-27)(10-18) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Arthur W. Moredick and Dianne M. Weers, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to ABN AMRO Mortgage Group, Inc., Mortgagee, dated March 18, 2005, and recorded on April 15, 2005 in instrument 1144932, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-Five Thousand Seven Hundred Six and 19/100 Dollars ($165,706.19). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on November 8, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot(s) 3, Algonquin Shores Plat, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats, Page 55. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: October 11, 2012 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #411228F01 77571510 (10-11)(11-01) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 11, 2012 — Page 13 Differences with state stops admissions at Thornapple Manor by Doug VanderLaan Editor For the second time in two years, Thornapple Manor has been banned by the State of Michigan from new admissions due to differences it has with the state over reporting and record-keeping requirements. “Unfortunately, there is a ban in effect that began on Sept. 2,” said Thornapple Manor Administrator Don Haney. “We were visited by a surveyor who provided us two citations, one for timely reporting of incidents and the second one having to do with their ability to understand our care plans. Haney was adamant in stating that neither of the citations had anything to do with the quality of care the facility provides its patients and residents. He also reported that a surveyor has made a second visit, cleared the two citations, and is now preparing a report that, with state endorsement, will allow new admissions to resume. “We reported everything, but we missed a deadline,” said Haney of the first of the citations, explaining that incidents at all facilities in the state must be reported with an 24-hour period followed by an investigative report within five days. “In one case, we made the 24-hour report with the five-day report,” said Haney. “In the other case, there was confusion over the fiveday period because it fell on the Labor Day weekend.” Of greater frustration has been the state surveying team’s inability to read reporting data compiled by Thornapple Manor. Because the facility has upgraded its records to electronic storage and because state surveying teams insist they be in paper form, clarification issues have arisen. POLICE BEAT BEA Car abandoned at high school Hastings Police were called to Hastings High School Oct. 8 for a vehicle abandoned and sitting on the east side of the school with its driver door open and interior lights on. When officers arrived, they noted tire marks on the grass near the 1997 Jeep Cherokee. Officers contacted the Jeep’s owner who lives on West Green Street and asked why it was at the high school. The owner said she thought her vehicle was still home. Officers later found evidence that the Jeep had been in an accident on South Montgomery Street. Anybody with information about the stolen vehicle is encouraged to call the Hastings City Police Department, 269-455-5744. Concern for safety leads to arrest Hastings officers were dispatched Oct. 2 to the construction site near the North Broadway bridge where they found an intoxicated man who appeared to be looking over the bridge. The caller was afraid the person was going to jump off of the bridge. As officers arrived, they confronted the man who was urinating behind a tree. The same man had been arrested Sept. 15 for the same behavior and a .403 percent blood alcohol content. He simply told officers “I had to go.” He was placed under arrest for being a disorderly person. He registered .393 percent blood alcohol level. Customer doesn’t pass ‘go,’ goes straight to jail Hastings Police went to McDonald’s Oct. 4 on a report of an irate customer at the drive-through window. The person was reportedly intoxicated. Officers were given the vehicle description prior to their arrival and saw the vehicle leaving the restaurant as they arrived. Officers followed the vehicle east on Apple Street at a very slow rate of speed and watched as the vehicle swerved back and forth. Officers stopped the car and spoke with the 52-year-old Hastings man. He was arrested after registering .19 and .20 percent blood alcohol level and then jailed under the state’s Super Drunk law. Double-lane driving alerts police Hastings officers on South Hanover Street Oct. 9 watched as the driver of a 2002 Ford Expedition heading north crossed into the southbound lane. Officers followed the vehicle as it continued to swerve and made a stop as it pulled into the Shell Gas station. Officers spoke with the 27-year-old Hastings driver who told police he and his passenger had just left a party. Officers could smell intoxicants coming from the vehicle and asked the driver how much he had been drinking. He said three to five beers. A portable breath test registered .24 percent. He was arrested and given another test in jail that registered .22 percent. The man was lodged at the Barry County Jail on charges of operating while intoxicated, third offense; driving with license suspended, second or subsequent offense; and transporting open alcohol. Rented computer searched for porn Hastings Police recently wrapped up an investigation of a 45-year-old Hastings man and charged him with possession of child abusive material and being a fourtime habitual offender. The man admitted he had viewed child pornography on a rented computer. Hastings Police obtained a search warrant and seized images of the child abusive material from the computer. Hastings Police were assisted by the Michigan State Police computer crime lab. The man has two previous convictions for criminal sexual conduct. K9 unit brought in to search package The Barry County Sheriff’s K9 unit was requested Sept. 27 to sniff a Fed Ex package detectives had taken to the sheriff’s department. Police Service Dog Graham gave a positive alert on the questionable package after it was placed among many other packages. The box was heavily taped. A search warrant was granted to open the package. A Barry County Jail inmate’s cell phone was the only thing in the package. The case is closed. Deputies search for a South Carolina truck Barry County deputies were contacted Sept. 29 by Wyoming Police in an attempt to locate a red GMC Sierra in the Middleville area. The vehicle was allegedly involved in a civil dispute. The sales agreement between two parties originated in Fairfield, S.C. Deputies also discovered there was no registered vehicle identification number in either Michigan or South Carolina. Deputies were unable to locate the vehicle until Oct. 1, where they spotted it on Robin Road near Middleville, at the residence of the 46-year-old man involved in the civil dispute. Wyoming Police were informed the vehicle had been located. KEEP YOUR FRIENDS AND RELATIVES INFORMED! Send them a gift subscription to The Hastings BANNER To order your subscription, call... 269-945-9554 “They had trouble navigating our care plans because they were all electronic,” said Haney. “We printed them out for them but the way things look on paper can look completely different than how they look on a computer. We do what we can to assist, showing them how to use the equipment and the data. We make everything and anything available and that’s all we can do.” Ironically, Haney spoke to the Banner one day after attending the signing of Senate Bill 884 by Gov. Rick Snyder. The new legislation will require all state surveyors to use technology in their assessments of nursing care and rehabilitation facilities such as Thornapple Manor. “Health care providers in the state have been very frustrated over the years until the passage of SB 884,” said Haney. “I’m not sure how immediate the impact might be, but there’s some comfort in knowing that we’re not the only facility having these issues.” The difficulty in 2010 which shut the facility to new admission for two months was similar in the issues over the survey process, but somewhat different in the timing, said Haney. “We’re into this [ban] for one month and a week,” said Haney of the current ban, “but, if we get the report we’re hoping for, we’ll be back soon.” LEGAL NOTICES SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by PHIL W. HART, AN UNMARRIED MAN, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated June 16, 2011, and recorded on June 30, 2011, in Document No. 201106300006442, and assigned by said mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-One Thousand Six Hundred Forty-Five Dollars and Forty-Seven Cents ($91,645.47), including interest at 4.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on November 8, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: THAT PORTION OF THE NORTH 1 / 2 OF THE NORTH 1 / 2 OF THE NORTHEAST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 21, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST, LYING WEST OF THE HIGHWAY, EXCEPT 2 ACRES ON THE SOUTH SIDE, BALTIMORE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 JPMC.000851 CONV (10-11)(1177571652 01) SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by ROBIN M. ELWEN, A SINGLE WOMAN, to EXCHANGE FINANCIAL CORPORATION, Mortgagee, dated July 17, 2003, and recorded on July 28, 2003, in Document No. 1109466, and rerecorded on September 9, 2003 in Document No./Liber 1112854 and assigned by said mortgagee to MICHIGAN STATE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty Thousand One Hundred Seventeen Dollars and Thirty-Two Cents ($60,117.32), including interest at 4.500% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on November 8, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: THE NORTH 74 1 / 2 FEET OF LOT 4 OF BLOCK 4 OF H.J. KENFIELD'S, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN LIBER 1 OF PLATS, PAGE (S) 9 OF BARRY COUNTY RECORDS. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. MICHIGAN STATE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 USBW.001780 FHA 77571657 (10-11)(11-01) COURT NEWS Anthony Ray Marshall, 38, of Plainwell was sentenced Oct. 4 in Barry County Circuit Court for delivery or manufacture of a Schedule 4 substance. Judge Amy McDowell ordered Marshall to serve six months in jail, with credit for five days served. He must pay $698 in court assessments. The balance of his jail time was suspended and probation will be terminated upon payment of court assessments. Mark Robert Smith, 30, of Grand Rapids was sentenced in Circuit Court Oct. 3 for breaking and entering with intent. Judge McDowell ordered Smith to serve 27 to 120 months in prison, with credit for 30 days served. There was no objection to boot camp. Smith must pay $198 in court assessments. Dora Jean Beilby, 41, of Delton was sentenced in Circuit Court Oct. 4 for uttering and publishing. Judge McDowell ordered Beilby to serve 90 days in jail and 24 months on probation. Beilby must pay $3,749 in costs and restitution. She also must pay $175 per month toward court assessments and will be discharged from probation upon payment of court assessments. The balance of her jail time will be suspended upon successful completion of probation. Two more charges of uttering and publishing, habitual offender, were dropped. Shane Scott Haugen, 23, of Grand Rapids was sentenced Oct. 4 in Barry County Circuit Court for fleeing police, fourth offense; and assaulting, resisting or obstructing a police officer. Judge McDowell ordered Haugen to serve six months in jail, with credit for 11 days served. He must pay $1,048 in court assessments. A second charge of assaulting, resisting or obstructing a police officer; and a charge of operating a vehicle with driver’s license suspended, revoked or denied, second or subsequent offense, were dropped. William James Anders, 39, of Delton was sentenced in Circuit Court Oct. 4 for possession of marijuana, second or subsequent offense; refusing to obey a traffic order from police; and operating with license suspended, revoked or denied. Judge McDowell ordered Anders to serve nine months in jail and pay $548 in court assessments. Charges of fleeing an officer, third degree; and habitual offender, fourth offense, were dropped. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 Estate Sale Garage Sale For Rent ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. GARAGE SALE, OCTOBER 12th & 13th. Friday, 9am-5pm, Saturday, 9am2pm, 389 N. Airport Road, Hastings. Leather recliners and love seat, oak rolltop desk, welder, miscellaneous tools & garage items, single axle utility tilt trailer, John Deere 790 tractor with bucket, 72” backblade & 60” 3 pt. mower, tent & camping items, miscellaneous motorcycle parts, craft supplies & holiday decorations plus much more. MIDDLE LAKE RENTAL: 3BD apartment. All appliances included, washer, dryer, central air. 1st months rent plus security deposit. Call Joe (269)838-2650. Business Services BASEMENT WATERPROOFING: PROFESSIONAL BASEMENT SERVICES waterproofing, crack repair, mold remediation. Local/licensed. Free estimates. (517)290-5556. Help Wanted HELP WANTED CAREGIVER: experience, references & resume needed. Call (269)945-4867. Recreation WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are interested in leasing acreage for this years deer season. Call (269)795-3049 National Ads THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is deceptive, fraudulent or might otherwise violate law or accepted standards of taste. However, this publication does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the quality of goods or services advertised. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made in any advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you ask for money in advance of delivery of goods or services advertised. INDOOR GARAGE SALE: frames all sizes; over 300 to choose from, all $20 or less. Also, old camera equipment, stools, chairs, knick knacks, crib (missing parts), Yamaha Trombone, waterfall vanity (no mirror), sports shoes, studio props, Sony Digital SLN camera, clothes and more. 1310 E. State St. Picture This Photography. Friday, October 12th, 8:00-5:00; Saturday, October 13th, 8:00-3:00. For Sale AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 HEAT YOUR ENTIRE HOME FOR FREE- Outdoor Wood Furnace. Instant rebates up to $350 for a limited time only. Central Boiler Classic. Call SOS your “Stocking Dealer” Dutton, MI (616)554-8669 or (616)915-5061. PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 Call 945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED BUDGET PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that on October 23, 2012 the Barry County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on the 2013 county budget during the regular Board of Commissioners meeting at 9:00 a.m. in the Commission Chambers of the County Courthouse at 220 W. State St., Hastings, MI 49058. The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget will be a subject of this hearing. A copy of the proposed 2013 budget is available for public inspection during normal business hours at the County Administrator’s Office, 3rd floor, Courthouse, 220 W. State St., Hastings, MI 49058. Pamela A. Jarvis, Clerk Barry County Board of Commissioners 77571544 �Page 14 — Thursday, October 11, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Hastings Exchange Club names October Young Citizens Named Young Citizens for October at Star Elementary School are Clayton Tonkin (left) and Braden Tolles joined here by Matt Kingshott. Hastings Middle School Young Citizens for October, joined by assistant principal Teresa Heide, are (from left) Elizabeth McCrackin, Citali Perez, Cheyann Arens, Haliegh Burfield and Jessica Thompson. Central Elementary School’s Young Citizens for October are Karsyn Daniels (left) and Kevin Coykendall with teacher Michelle Benningfield. Elizabeth Gonsalves, pictured here with teacher Dan Benningfield, is the Young Citizen for October at Southeastern Elementary School. FREE St. Rose sixth grader Kate Haywood, named her school’s Young Citizen for the month of October, is joined by teacher Amy Murphy. Double Prints One Week Only with any order! No Minimum. No limit. GET A 5X7 PRINT In-stock FREE FRAMES Your choice 20% OFF with 100 prints or more OR SAVE THIS WEEK 5x7’s 99¢ each Now thru Oct. 12 Stop in and see our new products & services! Call us for all your printing needs! 1351 N.Broadway (M-43) Hastings 269.945.9105 OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:30 - 5:30 Hunter Allerding (left) and Carter Cappon are Northeastern’s Young Citizens for October. They are joined by teacher Dawn James. SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN Disabled? Apply for Social Security benefits from home by Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist If you have a disability and need to file for Social Security benefits, you do not need to travel to the office. You may complete and submit your application for Social Security disability benefits from your own home computer. Get started at www.socialsecurity.gov/ disability. The application process involves determining whether you have sufficient work to be eligible for Social Security; the severity of your medical condition; and your ability to work. Because we carefully review so many cases — more than 3 million each year — it can take three to five months to determine whether a person is eligible to receive benefits. You can do things to help speed up the decision process. The more information you provide up front, the less time it will take us to obtain the evidence we need — and the faster we can process your application. The types of information we need include medical records or documentation you have; we can make copies of your records and return your originals; names, addresses, and phone numbers for any doctors, hospitals, medical facilities, treatment centers, or providers related to your disabling condition; and names, addresses, and phone numbers for recent employers and the dates worked for each employer. We also ask you to sign release forms that give us permission to obtain the information needed from third parties to make a decision on your claim. The best place to start is online at www.socialsecurity.gov/disability. Select “disability starter kits” in the left column. There, you’ll find important information to help you with your application. If you’re not able to work due to a disability, apply online for Social Security disability benefits at www.socialsecurity.gov/disability. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 11, 2012 — Page 15 Saxons’ Straube earns top 10 finish at Portage Invite Guns seized from a Barry County home are mostly long guns — shotguns and rifles. (Photo by Laura Adams) 400 guns seized near Bellevue Several handguns are confiscated during the search of a Barry County home. (Photo by Laura Adams) Multiple law enforcement agencies converged on a home in the southeastern most corner of Barry County Oct. 5. What they found at the home on M-78 near Bellevue was nearly 400 allegedly stolen shotguns and rifles, as well as several handguns. At another home, they found stolen boats, electronics and tools. The raid stemmed from the capture of two alleged thieves in a home on Morgan Road Oct. 2. One of the burglars was shot in the buttocks by the homeowner using a .410 shotgun. The two men admitted to committing home invasions and larceny in both Battle Creek and southern Barry County. The Battle Creek Police Department believe many of the stolen items come from Urbandale neighborhoods in Battle Creek. Barry County Animal Control was called in by Michigan State Police to remove two pit- bulls on the property. In all, authorities from six law enforcement agencies — Battle Creek Police, Calhoun County Sheriff, Emmett Township Public Safety, Springfield Public Safety, Michigan State Police and the Barry County Sheriff’s departments — were involved in the operation. The investigation is ongoing. Trista Straube had the fastest front runners to chase. The Hastings sophomore finished ninth in the Division 2 girls’ race Saturday at the Portage Invitational, finishing the race in 18 minutes 40 seconds. The top two runners in the Division 2 girls’ race were the two fastest girls’ of the day across all four divisions. Grand Rapids Christian’s Julia Bos won the race in 17:29 and Cedar Springs’ Kenzie Weiler was second in 17:47. Forest Hills Eastern won the Division 2 girls’ championship with 97 points. The Hawks were led by Clara Cullen’s fifth-place time of 18:25. The Hawks had five runners in the top 30. Spring Lake was second with 123 points, followed by Grand Rapids Christian 155, East Grand Rapids 177 and Forest Hills Northern 189 in the top five. Hastings was 21st with 578 points. Behind Straube, Ariel Moore was 91st in 20:49, Maria Palacio 137th in 21:49, Rachel Rimer 147th in 21:59 and Kaitlin Allen 194th in 23:32. Hastings’ boys were 32nd with 829 points in the Division 2 boys’ meet. Jake Miller led the way in 109th place with a time of 17:34. Ronnie Collins was 125th in 17:43, Garrett Bowers 185th in 18:20, Chance Miller 202nd in 18:37 and Jacob Pratt 208th in 18:50. St. Clair won the D2 boys’ race with 89 points. St. Joseph was second with 106, followed by Linden 128, Cedar Springs 137 and Ionia 215 in the top five. Cedar Springs’ Connor Mora was the individual champ in 15:18, with Ludington’s Luke Johnson second in 15:40. Delton Kellogg competed in the Division 3 races at Portage West Middle School Saturday, with Jarryd Calhoun leading the Delton boys’ team with a 27th-place time of 16:58. The Panther boys’ team was 36th with 953 points. Brock Mueller was 232nd in 20:52, Carson Mursch 238th in 21:13, Austin Tamez 242nd in 21:31 and Eric Hoeberling 246th in 22:24 . The Division 3 boys’ championship went to Marlette, which finished with 143 points. Marlette’s Andy Bowman was the individual champion, finishing in 15:30. Freeland was second with 150 points, followed by Jackson Lumen Christi 151, Stockbridge 157 and Calvin Christian 161 in the top five. Calvin Christian finished first in the Division 3 girls’ standings, with 122 points. Benzie Central was second with 130 followed by Lumen Christi 166, Hanover-Horton 185 and Shepherd 239 in the top five. Manistee’s Annie Fuller was the individual champion in 18:10. Delton Kellogg was led by Christi Boze’s time of 20:17. She was 37th overall. The Panther team also had Marcie Stevens 111th in 22:18, Megan Grimes 112th in 22:21, Sarah Rendon 127th in 22:46 and Sammi Cleary 157th in 23:33. Nevins gets hole-in-one on course her dad helped build Wendy Nevins fired her first hole-in-one on the 100-yard number two in the Blarney Stone League at Gun Ridge Golf Course Aug. 22. She used her pitching wedge to score the ace on the par-3 hole. The feat came on the course her father Jack Fowler built in 1977 along with Ed Schnurr. Nevins is joined in celebrating her hole-in-one by Mike Schnurr. 77571471 77571453 77571456 Nearly 400 guns are seized from a home in Barry County Oct. 5. (Photo by Laura Adams) 77571459 77571465 �Page 16 — Thursday, October 11, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Saxons beat TK with three goals in early flurry by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Trojans have been slow starters this season, and Hastings made them pay for that. Hastings’ varsity boys’ soccer team topped visiting Thornapple Kellogg 4-1 Thursday on Pierce Field in Hastings. Four of the game’s five goals were scored in the first 20 minutes. Hastings took a 2-0 lead on goals by Ian Beck and Matt Johnson in the first ten minutes of action. The Trojans answered a couple minutes after Johnson’s goal with a score by Rudi McWhirr. Hastings responded quickly though, getting a goal from Adam Hyrsl off an assist from Stephen Kendall. Hyrsl also tacked on a second goal, the only goal of the second half, with 9:36 left in the game by knocking in the rebound of a shot from Beck. “We’ve got some talent. We’re working on trying to get that talent to play soccer at the beginning instead of just at the end,” said Thornapple Kellogg head coach Larry Jachim. “They’re out there just doing something in the beginning, but they’re not playing soccer. At the end they turn it around and they start getting hungry and start playing the game the way it’s supposed to be played.” After the flurry of scoring, the Trojans controlled much of the rest of the first half, possessing the ball a bit better than the Saxons who were kicking the ball long and chasing it a bit more than their coach would have liked. “From that 3-1 point on they controlled a lot of the play until half-time,” said Hastings head coach Ben Conklin. “I would say second half was pretty even. Neither one of us had it for very long, but we each had our chances. We just fortunately got on the better end of it. Travis (Matthews) made some awesome saves.” Matthews finished with seven saves in goal for the Saxons. TK’s Andrew Rhoades had 11 saves of his own at the other end. The Saxons outshot the Trojans 15-8. Hastings did a great job of firing hard shots towards the Trojan net. They had a number of chances that flew just wide of the goal that aren’t included in those shots on goal numbers. “We’ve had some games where we haven’t done that, and it hasn’t turned out the way we Hastings’ Chris Feldpausch (7) reaches back with his right foot to try and knock the ball away from Thornapple Kellogg’s Rudi McWhirr in the midfield Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) would have liked it,” said Conklin. Jachim said that the idea of taking shots whenever they present themselves was key in McWhirr getting his team’s lone goal. It didn’t even come on the Trojans’ best chance of the night. “(McWhirr) took hard shot from 35 yards out, a line drive towards the net. It hit the ground and must have hit a bump because the keeper went down to get it and it went right over his head,” said Jachim. “You’ve got to take those shots. That’s just a learning experience for the team. Don’t be afraid to take those shots if you have them.” The Trojans, who have three wins on the season, will try and continue learning as they close out the regular season this week. They’ll host Wayland Monday and visit Ottawa Hills Wednesday in the final two O-K Gold Conference games of the season. The Trojans are currently 1-7 in the conference. Jachim said that in his team’s couple big victories this season, over Gull Lake and Holland Christian, his team came our fired up and ready to play soccer from the beginning and carried that enthusiasm and effort through the full 80 minutes. The team is still trying to figure out how to bring that attitude to the field each time out. Hastings is now 7-2 in the league and 11-71 overall. The Saxons followed up that win by knocking off Grand Rapids Catholic Central in Grand Rapids 3-1 Monday. The Saxons were scheduled to close out the conference season against South Christian Wednesday. The Saxons’ Maxwell Clark scans the field as he dribbles past Thornapple Kellogg’s Eric Jachim during Thursday’s O-K Gold Conference contest on Pierce Field in Hastings. (Photo by Brett Bremer) TK girls follow up Gold win by taking Allegan Invitational Vikings go for two, win by one by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Coaches always talk about their team needing to learn how to win at some point while trying to build a program. The Vikings figured it out Friday. Lakewood’s varsity football team earned its first victory of the season, and first under head coach Nick Boucher, besting Stockbridge 22-21 at Stockbridge High School. Doug Suntken plowed into the end zone from a yard out with 7 minutes and 50 seconds left in Friday’s Capital Area Activities Conference White Division contest, pulling the Vikings within a point at 20-19. “I said, ‘we’re going to get this.’ They all told me, ‘yes we are,’” said Boucher. The Vikings decided to go for two and the lead. “We ran (Zach) Kilbourn right behind Lars Pyrzinski and Charlie Reiser. They drove their guys right into the end zone and Kilbourn ran over one guy to get it in. I think everybody knew how big of a play that was at the time.” Then the Vikings just had to keep the Panthers from scoring over the final 7:50, and they did it - barely. Stockbridge managed to move into position for a 35-yard field goal attempt by kicker Marcus Prigge. “I saw him make a 50-yarder in warm-ups, so I was a little nervous,” Boucher said. The kick flew wide right and the Vikings took over with about two and a half minutes left. They were able to kill the clock with one last solid offensive drive. “It was a good feeling,” said Boucher. “We’re going to celebrate tonight, because we’ve earned it and we deserve it.” The offensive line deserves a lot of the credit for the Vikings’ success. Lakewood rushed the ball for 274 yards. Kilbourn had 22 carries for 130 yards and Suntken added 13 rushes for 108 yards. “Our line dominated,” Boucher said. “Every time I looked up I saw a wall of white just moving everybody. Our backs continued to run hard. We’re getting better at reading our blocks and we’re getting better at running our offense every game.” Viking quarterback Alex Potter was 5-of15 passing for 55 yards. Tyler Rush had four receptions for 53 yards. Lakewood had a 14-13 lead heading into the fourth quarter, but saw the Panthers get a seven-yard touchdown run by Josh Ensign and a two-point conversion pass to go up 2114 early in the fourth quarter. “I said, ‘all right, let’s go score again,’” Boucher said. “We went down and just drove the ball five, ten yards at a crack (to get the game-winning touchdown).” The teams traded touchdowns all evening. Quarterback Kaleb Grammer scored the first points of the game on a five-yard touchdown run in the first quarter. Prigge then added the extra-point kick. Kilbourn answered with a three-yard touchdown run for Lakewood in the second quarter, but the kick was no good leaving the Panthers up one. Stockbridge then extended its lead to 14-6 at the half on a 65-yard touchdown run by Ensign and another Prigge extra- SAXON WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE Complete online schedule at: www.hassk12.org HASTINGS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS Contact Nancy 945-2742 or hastingsathleticboosters@gmail.com to sponsor the schedule 4:30 pm Girls Varsity Cross Co. GR Catholic Central A Conference @ Johnson Park 5:00 pm Girls Fresh. Volleyball TKHS H 6:00 pm Girls JV Volleyball TKHS H 7:00 pm Girls Varsity Volleyball TKHS H WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 17 4:15 pm Girls 7th B Volleyball Duncan Lake Middle H 4:15 pm Girls 8th B Volleyball Duncan Lake Middle H 5:30 pm Girls 8th A Volleyball Duncan Lake Middle H 5:30 pm Girls 7th A Volleyball Duncan Lake Middle H THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18 4:15 pm Boys MS Cross Co. Gold Division @ Hastings H 4:15 pm Girls MS Cross Co. Gold Division @ Hastings H 4:30 pm Boys Fresh. Football South Christian HS H 5:00 pm Girls Varsity Volleyball Quad @ South Christian A 5:00 pm Girls JV Volleyball Gold Quad A 5:00 pm Girls Fresh. Volleyball Wayland Union HS Quad A 6:00 pm Girls Varsity Swimming G.R. Creston H 6:30 pm Boys JV Football South Christian HS H Thanks to This Week’s Sponsor: Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, P.C. “Quality Care with Compassion” 840 Cook Rd. Hastings, MI 49058 Phone: 269-945-9520 Toll Free: 800-596-1005 Contact us on the web @ www.hoc-mi.com DK football takes on KVA’s top team Friday Barry County’s two Kalamazoo Valley Association teams are the only ones with a chance to stop Schoolcraft from winning the conference championship in 2012. The Eagles, who are 7-0 and ranked second in the state in Division 6, come to Delton Kellogg High School Friday night to take on the 0-7 Panthers. Schoolcraft will then close out its regular season by hosting the Maple Valley Lions. Delton Kellogg fell to 0-7 with a 43-27 loss at home against Parchment Friday night. Pennfield and Constantine are tied for second place in the league standings at this point, with 6-1 records. They’ll meet in the final week of the regular season. Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity girls’ cross country team celebrates its Orange Division championship at Saturday’s Allegan Tigershark Invitational. The event was broken up into a Division 1 race for the fastest girls and a Division 2 race for the next group of girls from each team. The Trojans have three girls finish in the top five in both races. The Trojans took on Ottawa Hills in O-K Gold Conference action at the South Christian Sports Park Wednesday. The Bengals didn’t have anyone to run in the girls’ race, and had just three boys compete, giving the TK teams conference victories. David Walter won the boys’ race in 16:54.92. Daniel Vannette was second in 18:22.93. TK also had Leach fourth in 18:31.65, Austin LaVire fifth in 18:33.75 and Joe Gaikema sixth in 18:43.05. Aron Stewart led Ottawa Hills with a thirdplace time of 18:25.98. The TK girls team had Melissa Winchester finish in 19:35.82, Casey Lawson in 19:39.39, Olivia Lamberg in 20:07.85, Janie Noah in 20:45.61 and Taylor Ward in 21:14.72. The Thornapple Kellogg girls improved to 4-0 in the O-K Gold Conference with that victory. They were scheduled to take on South Christian in their final league dual yesterday afternoon in Wayland. TK’s followed up that performance at the South Christian Sports Park by winning the Orange Division at Saturday’s Allegan Tigershark Invitational. The Trojan team had three runners finish among the top five in both the Division 1 and Division 2 races. Faster runners took part in the Division 1 race, with Winchester second in 19:25.9, Lawson third in 19:26.4 and Lamberg fifth in 19:52.7. Sturgis’ Peyton Boughton was the individual champion in 19:18.9. In the Division 2 race, TK had Noah first in 20:26.9, Shelbi Shepherd second in 20:47.7 and Ward fourth in 20:58.4. TK’s girls finished the day with just 17 points. Sparta was second with 45 followed by Zeeland East 63, West Ottawa 85, Lowell 100, Mattawan 106, Northview 134, Sturgis 139, Holland 164, Creston NTS and Plainwell NTS. The Thornapple Kellogg boys were seventh as a team. Walter was the top finisher for TK, placing sixth in the Division 1 race in 16:49.6. Vannette was 26th in 18:25.8 and Conor Leach 27th in 18:33.6. Northview’s Esrom Woldemichael won the Division 1 race in 16:26.3. Sturgis, which took the Orange Division title on the boys’ side had the second and third runners in the Division 1 race and the champion in the Division 2 race, with Daniel Steele winning in 17:26.1 TK had LaVire 11th in the Division 2 race in 18:12.5, Gaikema 19th in 18:39.6 and Wyatt DeLeeuw 28th in 19:14.9. Sturgis finished the day with 27 points. Northview was second with 59, followed by West Ottawa 69, Zeeland East 69, Sparta 84, Mattawan 90, TK 113, Plainwell 131, Lowell 147, Holland 180 and Creston NTS. See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. Times and dates subject to change J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 77571532 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 11 4:15 pm Boys MS Cross Co. Duncan Lake Middle A 4:15 pm Girls MS Cross Co. Duncan Lake Middle A 4:30 pm Boys Fresh. Football GR Catholic Central H 5:00 pm Girls Varsity Volleyball Gold Quad H 5:00 pm Girls JV Volleyball Ottawa Hills HS Quad A 5:00 pm Girls Fresh. Volleyball Gold Quad @ T-K A 6:00 pm Girls Varsity Swimming G.R. Union A 6:30 pm Boys JV Football GR Catholic Central H FRIDAY, OCTOBER 12 TBA Girls Varsity Swimming HHS MISCA @ EMU A 7:00 pm Boys Varsity Football GR Catholic Central H SATURDAY, OCTOBER 13 TBA Girls Varsity Swimming HHS MISCA @ EMU A 9:00 am Girls Varsity Volleyball Leslie HS A Leslie Varsity Tournament 9:00 am Girls JV Volleyball Sturgis HS Sturgis Inv. A MONDAY, OCTOBER 15 4:15 pm Girls 8th A Volleyball Kraft Meadow A 4:14 pm Girls 7th A Volleyball Kraft Meadow A 5:30 pm Girls 7th B Volleyball Kraft Meadow A 5:30 pm Girls 8th B Volleyball Kraft Meadow A 7:00 pm Boys Varsity Soccer GR Christian A Districts @ GR Christian TUESDAY, OCTOBER 16 4:15 pm Boys MS Cross Co. Hastings MS XC Invite H 4:15 pm Girls MS Cross Co. Hastings MS XC Invite H 4:30 pm Boys Varsity Cross Co. GR Catholic Central A Conference @ Johnson Park point. Lakewood took the lead for the first time with the only touchdown of the third quarter. Jack Tromp scored on a one-yard run, then Kilbourn ran in the two-point conversion. On defense, Kilbourn had seven tackles and an interception. Pyrzinski led the Vikings with nine tackles. Defensive end Austin Darling also had a big night for the Vikings, making a handful of tackles, pressuring Grammer all evening long and making sure he didn’t make too many plays rolling out of the pocket. Grammer finished 10-of-21 passing for 129 yards, and did rush 11 times for 52 yards. Ensign led the Panthers on the ground with 13 rushes for 108 yards. Lucas Showerman had five receptions for Stockbridge, covering 98 yards. Lakewood ends the CAAC-White season in fifth place with a 1-4 record. The Vikings will close out the season with non-conference contests against Charlotte and Ionia. Friday’s game with the Orioles will be Lakewood’s final home contest this year. 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 11, 2012 — Page 17 Saxons have fun beating Kelloggsville in final dual by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Saxon singles players Drew White and Ryan Thornburgh thought it’d be fun to play some doubles. Since the Saxons were heading to Wyoming for a non-conference dual with Kelloggsville, Hastings varsity boys’ tennis coach Ed von der Hoff said okay. Even though it was a “fun” doubles match, the Saxon duo still had to do some work. They played the longest match of the afternoon, topping the Rockets’ Nate Kies and Michael Hang 7-5, 2-6, (10-5). Meanwhile, the Saxons’ regular first doubles team of Mac Clisso and James Isola cruised to easy singles wins. Clisso won 6-1, 6-0 at third singles and Isola took a 6-0, 6-0 win at number four. Those three points helped the Saxons to a 7-1 victory over Kelloggsville. It was smooth sailing for the Saxons throughout the singles line-up. Connor von der Hoff scored a 6-0, 6-1 win over Brad DeWater at first singles, and Chris Doxtader beat Emmanuel Sosci 6-1, 6-2 at number two. Hastings’ Jaleel Richardson leans back to hit a forehand return during the second doubles match against Kelloggsville Tuesday afternoon in Wyoming. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Monday night league makes history at Lakeview Lanes Darren Bosworth throws his fourth perfect game in the Monday Night Lions League at Lakeview Lanes, Sept. 24. It had been 16 years since his last perfect game in 1996. by Bonnie Mattson Staff Writer Hurling a ball 60 feet down a lane 12 times, knocking over 10 pins each time, will put a bowler on the map — or at least on the wall of the bowling alley where the pinnacle was reached. Often compared to the golfer’s dream of a hole-in-one, the perfect game in bowling is the achievement of a lifetime for amateurs in the sport. To have teammates reach the pinnacle, or at least come about as close as possible in the same series, is an event worthy of recognition, according to Rod Gregg, owner of Lakeview Lanes in Lake Odessa. Monday, Sept. 24, two members of Stowell Builders team in the Monday Night Lions League did just that. Thirty-nine-year-old Jeff Stowell started the evening with a 299 game, missing the perfect score on the 12th ball by leaving the No. 3 pin. Not to be outdone, the second game saw Darren Bosworth, also 39, knock over 120 pins to reach the height of perfection — a score of 300. After seeing his teammate take down all Saxon second doubles player Brad Smith hits a backhand shot back at his opponents from Kelloggsville Tuesday afternoon in Wyoming. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Jeff Stowell throws two games of 299 Monday, Sept. 24, at Lakeview Lanes, missing the perfect game by one pin twice in the same series. the pins, Stowell said he decided to up his game and shoot for the stars in the third game of the series. His second bid matched his first: one pin short. Stowell once again came as close as a bowler can come to the perfect game and not reach it with his second 299 of the evening, this time leaving the lone No. 10 pin standing. Stowell, who began bowling at age 9, has reached perfection in the recent past, bowling his first 300 game Feb. 6. Bosworth’s 300 game was his fourth, the last one happening 16 years ago, in 1996. He has been bowling since age 4. All four of Bosworth’s perfect games have been reached at Lakeview Lanes. “It was an unbelievable night,” said Gregg. “In the 65 plus-years this bowling alley has been here, that’s never happened before.” The Stowell Builders team has a history of above-average bowling, winning the Grand Rapids City Tournament last April. Team member Derek Desgranges put his place on the team in perspective. “I’m here for the fellowship,” he quipped. Bowling Scores Tuesday Trios SAM 19-3; Wash King 16-8; Team Turkey 15-9; CB’s 12-12; Lu’s Team 11.5-8.5; Look Ins. 11-13; Coleman Ins. 11-9; Blair Landscaping 9.5-14.5; Classic Trio 6-18; Ghost Team 0-24. High Game - Ruth 199; Renee B. 196; Shirlee V and KimC. 194. High Series - Ruth 544; Shirlee V. 519; Renee B. 503. Tuesday Mixed Boyce Milk Haulers 16.5; B.C. Red Cross 16; Hometown Lumber 15; Hurless Machine 13; J-Bar Antique Tractors 11. High Games - D. Blakely 200; D. Benner 199; K. Beebe 195; G. Hause 187; M. Snyder 171; B. Smith 168; B. Ramey 163; D. Wilkins 160; R. Gross 151; B. Norris 134. High Series - D. Benner 560; K. Beebe 552; D. Blakely 521. Monday Mixerettes Dewey’s Auto Body 15-5; Kent Oil 13-7; Nashville Chiropractic 11-9; Dean’s Dolls 1010; Creekside Growers 10-10. Good Games and Series - E. Ulrich 166; L. Elliston 200-515; B. Anders 152; S. Nash 159-390; B. Hathaway 155; K. Eberly 190- The Saxons’ Adam Schaefer stretches to the backhand side to hit a volley during the third doubles match at Kelloggsville Tuesday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) 518; DE. Snyder 169; S. Dunham 183; K. Fowler 236-528; P. Fowler 156. Senior Citizens Sun Risers 15-5; Three Gals and a Guy 137; Usedtobe #1 11-9; Butterfingers 10.5-9.5; Just Having Fun 10.5-9.5; Early Risers 10-10; Kuempel 8-12; King Pins 8-12; M&M’s 7-13; Ward’s Friends 7-13. Women’s Good Games and Series - G. Meaney 175; M. Kingsley 116-270; N. Frost 151-403; E. Dunham 173-459; Y. Markley 162-410; R. Murphy 167-438; P. Shellington 150-398; G. Scobey 170; N. Boniface 174; M. Wieland 162-448. Men’s Good Games and Series - B. Akers 189; D. Murphy 137-384; G. Bennett 171447; K. Schantz 178-456; B. Terry 206-553; R. Boniface 200-522; M. Saldivar 176. Wednesday PM Court Side 17-3; Boniface Construction 128; Hair Care 11.5-8.5; Delton Suds 11-9; Eye & ENT 85.-11.5 Good Games and Series - N. Boniface 169; B. Smith 172-453; N. Potter 152-420; J. Pettengill 135-365; S. Stevens 127; Y. Cheeseman 158. “I guess overall, it seems like the team is improving,” said coach von der Hoff. “The doubles groups are even showing more improvement. Singles are hanging in there and staying confident even though over the weekend it was pretty tough with some of the teams that they played.” Hastings finished third at the O-K Gold Conference tournament hosted by South Christian Saturday. South Christian and Catholic Central shared the league championship thanks to the Sailors victory in the tournament. The Sailors and Cougars met in all eight flight championship matches. Hastings players were third at all four doubles flights and at third and fourth singles. Scott Garber and Adam Schaefer showed off some of their improvement in a 6-4, 6-3 win over the Rockets Tuesday at third doubles, while the team of Zach Carlson and Mitchell Sarhatt won 6-0, 6-0 at number four for Hastings. The Rockets got their only team point at second doubles, where the team of Kasey Kale and Stephan Trang edged the Saxons’ Jaleel Richardson and Brad Smith in a thirdset super tie-breaker 6-3, 4-6, (10-4). South Christian won Saturday’s conference tournament with 45 points. Catholic Central was second with 43, followed by Hastings 28, Thornapple Kellogg 22, Wayland 19 and Ottawa Hills 5. White at third singles and Thornburgh at number four both finished third, as did the first doubles team of Clisso and Isola, the second doubles team of Richardson and Marshall Cherry, Garber and Schaefer at third doubles and Ben Anderson and Smith at fourth doubles. Catholic Central Joey Ellis earned the title of the league’s top player, beating South Christian’s Anthony Vroon 6-2, 6-2 in the first singles championship match. That was the only singles flight where the Cougars finished ahead of the Sailors. South Christian also won the top two doubles flights, with the Cougars winning at number three and four doubles. The Saxons end the league season in third place overall, after going 3-2 in the conference duals. Hastings will be back in action at its Division 3 Regional Tournament hosted by Holland Christian Friday. Nemetz finishes as Gold’s top golfer There were no surprises in the team standings at The Meadows Thursday during the OK Gold Conference Tournament. South Christian won with a 367. Hastings was second at 380. Wayland was third with a 383. Catholic Central was next with a 415 followed by Thornapple Kellogg with a 462. That was how the standings looked four out of the five league jamborees as well. The Sailors clinched the conference championship by putting four golfers in the top ten. Hastings’ Kylee Nemetz was the day’s individual champion though, and the best golfer over the course of the entire season in the O-K Gold, with a score of 84. South Christian’s Bridget Hemingway and Wayland’s Ali Martus tied for the runner-up spot Thursday with 86s. “Kylee got off to a solid start and had her only birdie of the day when she missed a hole-in-one on the 7th hole by about a foot,” said Hastings head coach Bruce Krueger. “Her only major stumble was a triple bogey on the ninth hole, for a seven-over-par 44 on the front nine. “She didn’t let that rattle her at all and responded with three straight pars to start the back nine and shot four-over-par 40 on the back. She managed her game well and played with confidence, determination and great emotional control.” Nemetz and teammate Katie Brown both earned all-conference honors this year, and Lindy Kloosterman earned all-conference honorable mention. Behind Nemetz for the Saxons, Brown was fifth overall with a 92 and Kloosterman was eighth with a 97. The Saxons also got a 107 from Courtney Rybiski. “The team’s goal was to beat Wayland and finish second in the conference and every player contributed to meet that goal,” Krueger said. “The top three were steady and dependable, as they have been all year, and we could have counted any of the other golfers as our fourth score and placed second because they all turned in solid rounds. (sophomore) Courtney Rybiski and (freshman) Samantha Slatkin performed well under the pressure of their first conference tournament, which is encouraging for the future. ” South was the only team with four golfers under 100, and it had five. Megan Wierenga fired a 90, Kelsey Ballast a 94, and Jordan Tucker a 97. The Sailors’ fifth score was a 99 from Grace Elenbaas, who was tenth individually. Maria Pamplona led Thornapple Kellogg with a 113. TK also got a 115 from DeeJay Minor and a pair of 117s from Sandra Gerou and Hannah Lamberg. Wayland had two in the top ten, Martus and Makayla Holloway who was fifth with a 92. Catholic Central was led by Celeste Headley’s 101. Lakewood girls finish as league runner-up The league tournament standings match the final overall standings in the Capital Area Activities Conference White Division this fall. Lansing Catholic ran away with the title, winning Thursday’s 18-hole conference tournament at Wheatfield Valley in Williamston by 52 strokes over runner-up Lakewood. The Cougars fired a 305. Lakewood scored a 357, followed by Stockbridge 362, Portland 387, Williamston 389 and Corunna 432. Olivia Barker led Lakewood with an 80. Emily Barker added an 89, Victoria Hager a 92 and Mariah Krikke a 96. Olivia was fourth overall on the day, behind the top three golfers from Lansing Catholic. Emily was seventh and Hager eighth. “Olivia had an excellent round today, especially on her front nine,” Lakewood head coach Carl Kutch said. “She shot +2 on the front with two birdies and just 12 putts. We work so hard on short game and she transferred that to the golf course with four up- and-downs.” Olivia was fourth, Emily sixth and Hager seventh in the overall individual standings for the season. The top three Lakewood golfers all earned all-conference honors, while Kennedy Hilley, Bryonna Barton and Krikke were all honorable mention all-conference. Kutch said that Emily had a “real nice consistent back nine, with four pars. Kutch added, “Victoria put together another good round and has been steady all year at the number three spot. She is so close to breaking 90.” Krikke is a little ways from breaking 90, but her 96 was her best 18-hole score. “She struck the ball well and had no real trouble holes,” Kutch said. Jaqueline Setas led the Cougars with a 2under-par 68. Danielle Crilley shot a 75 and Janie Fineis a 76. They were the day’s top three individuals. Their teammate Lauren Burnett was fifth with an 86. Hastings girls beat Wayland by having first four to finish The tightest race was for third, and it was between teammates. The Saxons’ Rachel Rimer edged Olivia Rose by just over half a second, 22:13.00 to 22:13.62 to place third during their team’s 1837 victory over Wayland’s varsity girls’ cross country team at the South Christian Sports Park Wednesday. Rimer and Rose were the third and fourth Saxons to cross the finish line, with Trista Straube winning in 19:34.69 and Ariel Moore second in 21:12.54. Hastings’ fifth scorer was Maria Palacio, who was eighth overall in 22:34.78. Wayland’s girls were led by Abby Wykoski, who was fifth in 22:14.76. Hastings also had the fastest boy, but the next three finishers in the boys’ race were from Wayland and the Wildcats scored a 2532 win over the Saxons. The Saxons’ Ronnie Collins won the race in 17:35.77. Wayland’s Ian Carter was second in 17:49.82. Hastings’ number two and three were about 50 seconds behind Collins, with Jake Miller fifth in 12:24.81 and Chance Miller sixth in 18:28.45. The Saxon team also had Garrett Bowers eighth in 18:54.01 and Jacob Pratt 12th in 19:31.13. �Page 18 — Thursday, October 11, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Last-minute TD propels Lions to homecoming win by Brett Bremer Sports Editor It was one heck of a homecoming for Maple Valley’s Tyler Hickey. He’s got the crown and the bruises to prove it. With his team down 10-6 at the half, Hickey was named the 2012 Maple Valley High School Homecoming King. He scored a touchdown on the Lions’ first possession of the second half, his second TD of the night, helping lead the Maple Valley varsity football team to a 28-24 victory over Hackett Catholic Central. Brandon Erwin ran in the game winning touchdown on a fourth-and-2 play from the Fighting Irish 5-yard line with 45 seconds left in the game, and Garrett Miller ran in the twopoint conversion to make sure the Irish would need a touchdown to get back in front. It was Hickey who carried the load though, rushing 33 times for 153 yards, even outgaining Hackett workhorse GeoVante Weston who Maple Valley’s Tyler Hickey looks for a way through the Hackett defense as defensive back Evan Wenzel (41) tries to line up for the tackle during Friday’s KVA contest at Maple Valley High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) The Lions’ Anthony Mahler runs through the Fighting Irish defense during Friday night’s homecoming contest at Maple Valley High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Maple Valley head coach Brian Lincoln celebrates Friday night’s 28-24 homecoming victory over Hackett Catholic Central with senior Garret Mater. (Photo by Perry Hardin) finished with 21 rushes for 139 yards and two touchdowns as well. Maple Valley improves to 3-4 in the Kalamazoo Valley Association with the victory, while the Irish fall to 2-5. “After the handshakes I told them to go celebrate with the student section,” said Maple Valley head coach Brian Lincoln. “They were all down on the field. The band played at the end, with the student section. Our school spirit is coming back, slowly. It’s exciting again, of course it always helps when you win a few games.” “It was a lot of fun.” The Irish focused on taking away the Lions’ sweeps and stretch plays to the outside. Hickey found his yards running off tackle, especially on the left side through the blocks of tight end Tommy Mudge, tackle Dayton Ashley, guard Brandon Ripley and center Jeremy Fisher. The Lions put together a few big drives in the game. On the last one they ate up more than five minutes with 12 plays, not wanting to give Weston much time to touch the football again. Austin Gonser had a big run with about three minutes left, sweeping around the end for a gain of six and a half on a fourthand-6 play near midfield. The Irish led for much of the evening, taking a 10-0 lead in the first quarter on a 38yard touchdown pass from Jake Buday to Dan Thayer and a 38-yard field goal by Brian Aldrich. The Lions got some of that back before the half on a one-yard touchdown run by Hickey. It was 10-6 at the intermission Hackett extended its lead quickly in the second half, with Weston racing 44 yards for a touchdown a minute and a half into the third quarter. The Lions cut the Irish lead from 17-6 to 17-14 with a drive that lasted more than seven minutes in that third quarter, finishing it off with a two-yard Hickey touchdown run and then a two-point run by Hickey. Maple Valley forced a three-and-out on Hackett’s next possession, but instead of punting the Irish went with a fake and Mudge was there to knock down the fourth-down pass allowing the Lions to take over at the Irish 33-yard line. The Lions moved over the short field quickly, getting a three-yard touchdown pass from Beau Johnson to Anthony Mahler for their first lead of the game with 9:51 left to play. It was Johnson’s first touchdown pass of his varsity career. The PAT was no good, and the Lions led 20-17. The Irish took the lead back at 27-20 with a drive that ended in a two-yard touchdown run by Weston with 6:07 left to play and the third of Aldrich’s extra-point kicks. Erwin led the Lion defense on the night with 15 tackles. Johnson had eight and Garrett Mater had five. The Irish had two turnovers. Gonser intercepted a pass and Mudge picked up a fumble. Maple Valley piled up 259 yards of offense, 237 of which came on the ground. Erwin had five carries for 35 yards and Miller 13 for 33 yards. Johnson was 4-of-7 passing for 22 yards. Thayer completed just one of his eight pass attempts, for 38 yards. He added six rushes for 56 yards though. The Irish had 233 total yards of offense, with 195 coming via the rush. Maple Valley goes on the road now for its final two games of the season, at GalesburgAugusta Friday and then at Schoolcraft in week nine. Lions and Saxons team up to raise nearly $2,000 the Saxons will be at home facing Thornapple Kellogg. The Saxons saw the Trojans in league action last Thursday, falling 3-0, and at Saturday’s Hopkins Invitational where TK took the championship. Hastings fell 25-17, 25-15 to the Trojans in the championship semifinals, after an opening round 25-22, 23-25, 15-10 win over Hopkins. Hastings was 2-2 heading into bracket play. The Saxons topped Delton Kellogg 25-16, 2520 to start the day then fell to Allegan 25-19, 25-21. In the power pool, Hastings beat Gobles 25-22, 25-13 and fell to Delton Kellogg 26-24, 25-10. Slaughter said her girls did a good job of playing as a team, and played good against the good teams it faced throughout the tournament. Quillen led the team in kills with 24, while Osterink had 22. Goggins finished with 57 assists. Ally Owen had eight aces. by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Only one stat mattered to Maple Valley varsity volleyball coach Sarah Carpenter Thursday, $1,040. That was the take from the gate during Monday’s Pink-Out game against Hastings at Maple Valley High School, which will go to Relay for Life team Angel Wings, and eventually to the American Cancer Society. Hastings head coach Val Slaughter reported Tuesday that over $1,900 was raised at the event once T-shirt sales and raffle ticket proceeds were included. Carpenter and Slaughter began planning the event while seeing each other at the annual Relay for Life event in Hastings. Slaughter has participated with a group that includes members of the HYAA, while Carpenter has included her volleyball team in the fundraising and the walk with her mother-in-law Sandy Carpenter’s team Angel Wings for the past four years. The Lions also hold a garage sale and a car wash during the year to help raise funds for the team. “It was a night about fundraising and a benefit,” Carpenter said. “It wasn’t really about volleyball. I played every single one on my The Saxon defense passed the ball well. Nikki Redman had a team-high 21 digs for the day, while Taylor Warner had 18 and Becky Barnard had 12. Bosma had a good day too, finishing with 14 blocks and 11 assists. The Lions saw one of the toughest attacks they’ve seen all year and didn’t back down Wednesday. Maple Valley fell 3-1 to Schoolcraft in Kalamazoo Valley Association action by the scores of 25-9, 25-9, 21-25, 259. “These girls did not give up – they continued to fight and believe in themselves,” said Maple Valley Carpenter. “Schoolcraft is a very good team – running a fast tempo offense the best we have seen all season. I am proud of this team and their attitudes tonight.” Hadley Joppie led the Lions with eight kills and Olivia Ricketts chipped in five. Courtney Walker and Timara Burd had nine digs each. Marissa Pierce led the Lions at the service line with two aces. Hastings’ Rachel Quillen dives down in front of teammate Nicole Redman to try and pass a Lion serve during Monday’s Pink-Out game at Maple Valley High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The Saxons’ Ally Owen hits an attack against Maple Valley Monday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) bench. Hastings is always a great program. It is what it is. “Before the game, we talked to the girls about remembering why we’re here. There are the survivors and we’re here to raise money to find a cure. We do that garage sale and we do the car wash. We actually walk, and yes it is fun and yes we have a good time, but we’re trying to give back to this world that we live in.” The Lions’ rowdy student section, that was nearly entirely dressed or painted in pink, was happy to cheer for its team to come out with the win. Football and cheerleading teams let their athletes out of practice early to join in the festivities. The Lions did come up a bit short on the court though, falling 25-17, 2624, 25-14 to the Saxons. Both teams wore pink T-shirts, in slightly different shades of pink. The Lions’ shirts were designed by coach Carpenter’s daughter. The teams are looking forward to making it an annual event, whether or not it is always hosted by the Lions or if it alternates between the two schools. “I love it,” Slaughter said. “(Coach Carpenter) said we’re going to do it every year. Good. I love it. Hopefully (athletic director Mike) Goggins is okay with that. I told him we’re in.” The Saxons were a bit better at passing the pink and white volleyball around than the Lions Monday, and took advantage of a strong service game. Slaughter said that serving has been one of her team’s strengths all season long. Sophomore setter Erin Goggins had eight aces as well as 15 assists. “We have a few girls that are jump serving and they’re doing very good at it,” Slaughter said, “very consistent for the most part and hitting it hard.” Hastings got a big night from Corrie Osterink, who had ten kills and two blocks. Grace Bosma added five kills and Rachel Quillen four. Slaugther was happy with the way her girls were swinging when they were attacking at the net, and with a nice back-row attack from Taylor Warner. Carpenter did say her team needs to work on its passing, especially keeping sets close to the net for attackers to hit. Loisa Larino had one of her best games of the season for the Lions, and freshman Taylor Medina stepped up and did well at setter in her first varsity action of the season. Hastings is back in action today hosting a conference quad, where it will take on Catholic Central and Ottawa Hills. Tuesday The Saxons’ Corrie Osterink tips the ball over Maple Valley’s Loisa Larino during the first set of their contest at Maple Valley High School Monday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 11, 2012 — Page 19 Saxons score seventh straight win over TK boys by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Hastings’ win in Middleville Friday night puts the Saxons in the playoffs for the fifth time in six years. Grand Rapids Catholic Central is in the playoffs with seven wins after topping South Christian Friday. Caledoina is in the playoffs after beating Forest Hills Central Friday. South Christian, Byron Center and Hamilton need two wins each to get to six wins and to get guarenteed spots in the state’s postseason tournament. Thornapple Kellogg’s opponents have a combined record of 34-15 so far this season. In other words, it’s been a tough schedule for the Trojans. Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity football team fell to 1-5 with a 37-7 loss to Hastings inside Bob White Stadium Friday. The Trojans are now 0-3 in the O-K Gold Conference. “It’s been tough,” said Thornapple Kellogg head coach Chad Ruger. “Any time you have The Saxons’ Miguel Arjona (28) makes sure a pass to Thornapple Kellogg’s Dan Dykstra falls incomplete during the fourth quarter Friday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) a season like this where the guys believe they can do more than what they’ve done and they’re capable of more then it’s painful. And the investment these guys make throughout the year, it’s painful. It’s just the way that it is. Sometimes you get them and sometimes you don’t.” The Saxons have now won seven straight against the Trojans. They are 5-1 on the year and 3-0 in the league. Hastings has some of its toughest tests ahead, hosting Grand Rapids Catholic Central this Friday and then going to Byron Center to take on South Christian in week nine. TK stopped the Saxons’ first drive of the game, them marched down the field to take a 7-0 first quarter lead on an 18-yard touchdown pass from Grant Allison to Nate Stahl and Aaron Ordway’s extra-point kick. With the help of a short field though, Hastings scored 22 unanswered points to close out the half. The Saxons tacked on a quick TD drive early in the third quarter, then ran out the clock with two more long drives. “I think we just settled in. I think we came out a little flat to be perfectly honest,” said Hastings head coach Fred Rademacher. “That’s a good football team over there. They’re much better than their record indicates.” “You look at the schedule they play. We’ve played two teams with winning records and we lost to one of them. I think now five teams they’ve played are in the playoffs, or are going to be in the playoffs. So, their record is not any indication of the talent on that team.” Hastings showed off some talent on the offensive line, gaining 352 yards on the ground. Stephen Shaffer rushed 26 times for 108 yards and Jason Slaughter added 16 rushes for 105 yards. The Saxons also had Logan Clements step up big in their backfield. He rushed 11 times for 62 yards. “They have got a nice offensive line. They push. We didn’t get much push up front ourselves,” Ruger said. “If you have to give the line of scrimmage to somebody, for them offensively they won it and for them defensively they won it.” Hastings answered TK’s opening touchdown with a 14-play, 80-yard drive that took five minutes and ended in a 5-yard touchdown run by Shaffer. The two-point run was Hastings’ Mitchel Brooks chases after Thornapple Kellogg running back Dan Dykstra during a play in the first quarter Friday night at Bob White Stadium in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) no good and TK still led by one, 7-6. That’s when the Trojans’ troubles started to creep up. Penalties stalled the ensuing TK drive. Punter Aaron Ordway had the option of trying to run for a first down on fourth-andnine from the Trojans’ own 27-yard line and came up a couple yards short, giving Hastings the ball at the TK 32. Seven plays later Hastings quarterback Chase Huisman snuck in to the end zone from a yard out. Shaffer added the two-point run for a 14-7 Hastings lead. On TK’s next drive, the Trojans faced a fourth-and-one at their own 43-yard line and came up just short on a run by CJ Bronkema. With less than half the field in front of it again, Hastings moved 44 yards in eight plays, getting a 1-yard TD run by Shaffer and a two-point run from Huisman to go up 22-7. Hastings pushed its lead to 30-7 with an 8yard touchdown run by Slaughter and a twopoint run by Kenny Cross on its first possession of the second half. The Saxons only had the ball two other times in the second half. The next drive used up almost five minutes with 11 plays before the team’s only punt of the game. The final drive took just over eight minutes to cover 48 yards, and ended in a 25-yard touchdown run by Mike Mansfield on a fourth-and-17 play. Nate Pewoski then tacked on the extra-point. The Trojan offense got into Hastings territory just twice after the opening touchdown. TK had 172 yards of offense, 131 yards on the ground and 41 yards passing. Allison wsa 3-of-8 for 41 yards. Aaron Ordway had six rushes for 31 yards for TK. Allison rushed four times for 29 yrds. Hastings’ Stephen Shaffer plows through the Trojan defense during a 1yard touchdown during Friday night’s OK Gold Conference contest in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Peter Westra had 14 tackles to led the TK defense, while Ben Jazwinski added 13 and Gabe Space ten. Hastings got seven tackles from Michael Eastman and five from Eric Hart. While those two seniors led the way, Rademacher said he’s been very pleased with his juniors as well, with nine juniors out on the field for some big plays at times. “We’ve got a lot of guys who are stepping up who have really matured and become varsity football players over the course of this year. That’s good to see,” said Rademacher. Juniors Miguel Arjona, Mitchel Brooks and James Lee had four tackles each. Lions better, but Delton earns another shutout by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Improvements didn’t show up on the scoreboard for the Lions, but they showed up on the field in Delton. Delton Kellogg’s varsity boys’ soccer team topped Maple Valley 5-0 in the second round of the Kalamazoo Valley Association (KVA) Tournament Wednesday. Two and a half weeks ago when the teams met for their KVA regular season contest, the host Panthers scored a 3-0 victory. “Scorewise I think it was a step backwards but we played better than we did last time,” said Maple Valley head coach Andy Roush. “We moved to get open for passes a lot better. The passes were there the first time, we just weren’t moving for them. We were doing a lot of ball watching, and we definitely improved that. We strung some passes together.” It’s been a gradual improvement throughout the course of the season for the young Lion team which includes as many freshmen and sophomores as it does seniors. Roush was especially pleased with the way sophomores Lucas Robles and Samuel Bonney were able to move the ball through the middle of the field. “They’re starting to come together. They’re starting to think soccer, they’re not just playing, they’re thinking it a little better,” Roush said. Senior defender Robbie Welch and senior goalkeeper James Burd did their best to keep the score as close as they could. Burd did have some trouble though corralling a wet, slippery ball throughout the evening though. “Get it outside take it up and then put it in the middle and then they’ll be open for a pass. We definitely saw that.” Delton Kellogg closed out the KVA Tournament with a sixth-place finish, falling 3-2 to visiting Galesburg-Augusta Monday. Kyle Hoyt scored the only goal of the second half, breaking a 2-2 tie to get the Rams the victory. Josh Saggio put his Galesburg-Augusta team up early on, scoring in the second minute Round 3 KVA tournament. The score went back and forth from there. Brandon Robbins knotted the score for the Panthers midway through the half, but 15 minutes later Andy Gregg put the Rams back on top with a goal. Delton managed to even things up before the half, with Mark Ordway scoring a minute and a half before the break. In between those two conference contests the Panthers scored a 3-0 non-conference win over Comstock Thursday in Delton. Logan Hansen scored midway through the first half, then Ordway and Robbins added goals in the second. The Panthers outshot the Colts 16-4 in the contest. Delton Kellogg is now 5-10-1 overall this season. Celebrate the S A XON SPIRIT with a PRE-GAME Delton Kellogg’s Logan Hansen (21) carries the ball past ample Valley defender Nils Wulf and into the box during the first half of Wednesday’s KVA Tournament game in Delton. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Delton scored three of its goals by putting in rebounds off of the Lion keeper. “We did well today with passing and crashing the net. I think more than half our goals came from the second attempt getting in there, which is something we’ve been work- Delton Kellogg’s Mark Ordway (7) finds enough space next to Maple Valley defender Robbie Welch to fire a shot off during Wednesday’s KVA Tournament contest in Delton. (Photo by Brett Bremer) ing on a lot lately,” said Delton Kellogg head coach Alan Mabie. Roush would like to see his team get betting at limiting opponent’s momentum. The game went from 0-0 to 3-0 in less than three minutes in the middle of the first half. Delton Kellogg got its first goal in the 18th minute, as Evan Curtice took a corner kick from teammate Cole Mabie and knocked it into the corner of the net. In the 19th minute, Delton Kellogg’s Lucas Hansen sent a shot skipping towards the net from about 20 yards out. The rebound got away from Burd and Delton’s Keith Malachowski was there to put it in. Then in the 20th minute, Malachowski and Hansen broke through the center of the Maple Valley defense with Hansen putting the final touch past Burd. “Once that first one goes in you’ve got to shut that door and lock them down. We’ll progress. We’ll learn how to do that,” Roush said. The score stayed that way until the 63rd minute when Burd deflected a couple of close in shots by the Panthers before Hansen finally put a third by him. The Panthers closed the scoring with Tucker Onderlinde scoring his first goal, knocking it away from Burd in a crowd in front of the Lion goal. Delton showed some growth as the game went on, relying a little less on trying to penetrate through the center of the Lion defense and working the ball from the outsides in. “We talked about that at half because out outsides were so wide open,” Mabie said. TAILGATE PARTY FRIDAY, OCTOBER 12TH To show community support for our football team and the spirit of being a Saxon, HASTINGS MUTUAL INSURANCE is sponsoring a tailgate party with free grilled hot dogs, chips and a drink to anyone before the game with Grand Rapids Catholic Central, starting at 5:30 p.m. at the main entrance to Baum Stadium at Johnson Field The game will start at 7 p.m. SAXON SPIRIT ... let it show! 77571646 �Page 20 — Thursday, October 11, 2012 — The Hastings Banner TK/Hastings girls win a dozen events in victory over Fremont The Thornapple Kellogg/Hastings girls’ swimming and diving team is striving for another unbeaten season. The Trojans improved to 7-0 in duals on the season with a 101-70 victory over visiting Fremont Tuesday evening in Hastings. The TK/Hastings girls won every event, starting with a 1-2 finish in the 200-yard medley relay and a sweep of the top three scoring places in the 200-yard freestyle. The TK/Hastings team of Kayla Strumberger, Alexa Schipper, Hannah Bashore and Kayla Kroells won the 200yard medley relay in 1:58.01, with their teammates Marissa Swanson, McKayla Sheldon, Lauren Ricketts and Kourtney Dobbin second in 2:16.66. TK/Hastings then had the trio of Jennifer Tuokkola, Katie Beauchamp and Kaitlyn Telfor finish 1-2-3 in the 200-yard freestyle. Tuokkola was first to touch the wall, in 2:21.34. TK/Hastings also had the top three divers. Brieanna Sheldon won with a score of 170.60. Raelee Olson was second at 143.95 and Christian Stayton third at 134.90. The other wins were spread out amongst the TK/Hastings swimmers. Libby Betcher was the only one to take two individual events, winning the 100-yard backstroke in 1:16.58 and the 100-yard freestyle in 1:03.19. Delton girls perfect in KVA with two matches remaining Emma Anderson took the 200-yard individual medley in 2:37.85 and Dobbin won the 50-yard freestyle in 28.50. After the diving competition, Bashore won the 100-yard butterfly in 1:05.93, Schipper the 500-yard freestyle in 5:57.40 and Strumberger the 100-yard backstroke in 1:08.03. In the two freestyle relays, the 200 was won by Kroells, Beauchamp, Katy Garber and Schipper in 1:52.89 and the 400 was won by Bashore, Swanson, Strumberger and Kroells in 4:12.59. The TK/Hastings girls swim at Grand Rapids Union tonight looking to improve to 8-0. TK spikers score wins over Saxons, will meet again soon Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity volleyball team improved to 30-7-2 overall this season and 3-2 in the O-K Gold Conference with a 30 win over visiting Hastings Thursday. The Trojans won by the scores of 25-10, 25-12, 25-16. “The whole team contributed to the win and it was a great night for the girls,” said Thornapple Kellogg head coach Patty Pohl. Sydney LeMay and Jessica Ziccarello had 11 kills each to lead the Trojan attack. TK setter Alaina Pohl had 33 assists as well as 15 digs. Molly Lark chipped in ten digs and three aces. Erin Scheidel had ten digs too. Jessica Morgan played well for TK, finishing with six kills and a team-high 16 digs. Hastings had three players with three kills each, Corrie Osterink, Christine Maurer and Ali Owen. Setter Erin Goggins had seven assists and two aces. The Trojans and Saxons are seeing a lot of each other during this stretch of the season. Both teams took part in the Hopkins Invitational, which the Trojans won Saturday. Both teams will also be in Hastings this Thursday for the first O-K Gold Conference Quad of the season, but they won’t face each other on the court. They’ll both play contests against Ottawa Hills and Grand Rapids Catholic Central. The two teams will meet for their second head-to-head match up in league play in Hastings Tuesday. The Trojans were 7-0 Saturday at Hopkins, knocking off Covenant Christian 22-25, 2515, 15-7 in the championship match. “It was another great team effort today,” said coach Pohl. Lark, Crystal Smith, and Sydney Krol played well defensively, tallying 74, 40, and 31 digs respectively. Lark also had ten aces while Krol had nine. Alaina Pohl set well, finishing with 159 assists to go along with 35 digs and 12 blocks. LeMay had 60 kills and 22 blocks, while Nicole Schondelmayer had 28 kills and 14 blocks. Ziccarello had 43 kills and Paige Eyk added 24 kills. TK reached the finals with a 25-17, 25-15 win over the Saxons in the semifinals. TK’s overall record improved to 37-7-2. DK girls third at jamboree to hold onto second in KVA Delton Kellogg’s girls were third last week at Gilmore Classic Car Museum, but they still have a hold of second place in the Kalamazoo Valley Association. Hackett Catholic Central’s varsity girls’ cross country team won the Oct. 2 KVA Jamboree which the Panthers hosted with 60 points to stay in first place in the overall league standings. Schoolcraft edged the Delton girls 94-102 for the second spot, with Olivet’s girls a close fourth with 103 points. Pennfield was fifth with 127 points, followed by Kalamazoo Christian 129, Parchment 171, Maple Valley 187, Galesburg-Augusta 214 and Constantine 221. Pennfield’s Audrianna Bornamann was first in 19 minutes 18 seconds, and Kalamazoo Christian’s Kate McLain second in 19:42. Hackett had five runners in the top 18 to win the girls’ race, led by Lucy Ankenbauer’s fourth-place time of 20:00.2. Maple Valley’s Jessica Rushford leaned ahead of her at the finish line for third place, finishing in 20:00.1. Delton Kellogg was led by Christi Boze who was sixth in 20:38. The Panthers also had Sarah Rendon tenth in 21:27, Marcie Stevens 21st in 22:44, Megan Grimes 28th in 22:59 and Sammi Cleary 37th in 23:33. The Lion team also had Hannah Kyle 36th in 23:30, Lamance 46th in 24:30, McGlocklin 50th in 24:42 and Elizabeth Wetzel 52nd in 24:57. Schoolcraft took the boys’ title on the day with 46 points to stay in first place in the league. Hackett Catholic Central was second with 60 points followed by Kalamazoo Christian 74, Maple Valley 82, Constantine 110, Parchment 182, Delton Kellogg 195, Olivet 201, Pennfield 249 and GalesburgAugusta NTS. The Lions had their top five all among the top 21 runners. Kyle Brumm again led the team, placing tenth in 17:48. Andrew Brighton was 13th in 18:09, Austin Rood 18th in 18:20, Micah Bromley 20th in 18:24 and Sam Benedict 21st in 18:30. Schoolcraft’s Zach Wehner was the day’s champion, finishing in 16:06. Christian’s Doug Hollett was second in 16:16, and third went to Michael Meyers from Hackett who came in at 16:56. Delton Kellogg had Jarryd Calhoun sixth in 17:30, Dylan Kelly 43rd in 20:25, Alex Stevens 44th in 20:36, Brock Mueller 49th in 21:04 and Austin Tamez 53rd in 21:31 Delton Kellogg’s Kanoelani Chaffee (left) and Alisha Vanderwoude go up to try and slow down a Fighting Irish attacker during their team’s 3-0 win over Hackett at Delton Kellogg High School Wednesday evening. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Delton Kellogg’s Rachel Parker goes down to pass the ball during Wednesday’s KVA contest with Hackett Catholic Central. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Delton Kellogg’s varsity volleyball team improved its Kalamazoo Valley Association record to 6-0 with a 3-0 win over visiting Hackett Catholic Central Wednesday. The Panthers were scheduled to take on Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, P.C. • Kenneth S. Merriman, M.D. • Eric S. Leep, D.O. • James L. Horton, Jr., D.O. • David J. Heeringa, D.O. • Maria Benit, PA-C • Christopher Born, PA-C Osteoporosis is common, serious, and costly — and it can lead to an increased risk of bone fractures, typically in the wrist, hip, and spine. Often called a silent disease because bone loss occurs without symptoms, people may not know that they have osteoporosis until their bones become so weak that a sudden bump or fall causes a fracture. Please join with Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, PC in continuing to honor women this month by helping to raise awareness of osteoporosis and the importance of prevention and early detection in combating this disease. Did You Know? • About 10 million Americans have osteoporosis, and about 34 million more are at risk. • One out of every 2 women and 1 in 4 men aged 50 and older will have an osteoporosis-related fracture in their lifetime. • Twenty-four percent of hip fracture patients age 50 and older die in the year following their fracture. From left to right: James L. Horton, Jr., D.O., Orthopedic Surgeon; David J. While men and women of all ages and ethnicities can develop osteoporosis, certain risk factors are linked to Heeringa, D.O., Orthopedic Surgeon; Eric S. Leep, D.O., Physical Medicine; Kenneth the development of osteoporosis and contribute to an individual’s likelihood of developing the disease. S. Merriman, M.D., Orthopedic Surgeon. • Gender – Women have a greater chance of developing osteoporosis due to less bone tissue and changes that occur due to menopause. • Ethnicity – Caucasian and Asian women are at highest risk. African American and Hispanic women have lower but significant risk. • Age – Older adults have greater risk of osteoporosis because bones become thinner and weaker with age. • Body size – Small, thin-boned women are at greater risk. • Diet – An inadequate intake of calcium and vitamin D over a lifetime makes an individual more prone to bone loss and contributes to the development of osteoporosis. • Lifestyle – An inactive lifestyle or extended bed rest tends to weaken bones. • Family history – Fracture risk may be due, in part, to heredity. • Smoking – Women who smoke have lower levels of estrogen compared with nonsmokers, often go through menopause earlier, and may also absorb less calcium from their diets. • Medication use – Long-term use of certain medications can lead to loss of bone density and fractures. • Alcohol –Those who drink heavily are more prone to bone loss and fracture, because of poor nutrition and increased risk of falling. People with osteoporosis may have several risk factors, while others who develop the disease may have no known risk factors at all. Osteoporosis is a preventable and treatable disease. Early diagnosis and treatment can reduce or prevent fractures. Medicare and other insurance carriers provide coverage of bone mass measurement for certain eligible beneficiaries. This important benefit can aid in the early detection of osteoporosis before fractures happen, provide a precursor to future fractures, and determine the rate of bone loss. For more information on Hastings Orthopedic Clinic or to learn about all of our services, please visit us online at www.hoc-mi.com, scan our QR code below with your mobile device, or contact us directly at (269) 945-9520. Providing Excellence. In the Art of Total Orthopedic Care Physical Medicine and Pain Management Accessible. Comprehensive. 07611285 Olivet on the road last night and will finish off the league matches with their two toughest tests of the KVA season. Delton hosts Schoolcraft Wednesday, then will be at Pennfield Tuesday, Oct. 23. The Delton girls took care of business against the Fighting Irish, winning 25-17, 2512, 25-15. Alisha Vanderwoude led the Delton Kellogg attack with 13 kills. She also had six blocks and four aces. Freshman Hannah Walker came on to add four aces as well. Kanoe Chaffee set up 14 assists on the night. Rachel Parker had a team-high six digs. Catherine Harding had 12 assists for the Fighting Irish. Delton Kellogg followed that up with a trip to Hopkins’ Switek Memorial Volleyball Tournament Saturday. The Panthers reached the tournament semifinals, where they fell to Covenant Christian. Thornapple Kellogg then knocked off Covenant Christian 22-25, 25-15, 15-7 to win the tournament championship. HYAA Football The Hastings eighth grade Gold football team improved its record to 4-1 on the season Saturday, defeating Comstock Colts 34-26. The game featured four lead changes with the Saxons each time responding to Comstock touchdowns. Running back Billy Smith had three rushing touchdowns on 23 carries for 167 total yards for Hastings. Running backs Devin Planck and Ethan Hart each scored touchdowns with Planck finishing with 105 yards on 15 carries. Quarterback Calvin Cappon added 67 yards rushing on six carries and twelve yards passing. The Saxon offensive line led by guard Danny Koneska and center Trevor Ryan led the rushing attack for 372 total yards on 51 carries. Defensively, the Saxons created three turnovers, two in the fourth quarter and were led by inside linebacker Derek High’s and outside linebacker Ethan Hart’s five tackles each. Corner Skyler Brower added five tackles and had one fumble recovery. Corner Sam Dakin finished with three tackles, including a key fourth quarter tackle on a Comstock QB sweep. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-10-18.pdf 599f933cf39d522762818f2642da82d6 PDF Text Text Nashville has third resignation in a month Baums honored at health center dedication Saxons going back to golf state finals See Story on Page 13 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 17 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 41 NEWS BRIEFS Friday’s summit to focus on community health Pennock Health Services and the Barry County Chamber of Commerce invite the public to the Barry County Healthcare Summit Friday, Oct. 19, from 9 a.m. to noon. The summit will be at the Barry Community Enrichment Center as a forum for education and dialogue regarding health issues. Dr. Amy Schultz will speak on aligning community partnerships. Tom Stobie will present “Farm to School — a Community Cooperative.” A panel discussion will follow with panelists Janine Dalman, executive director of Pennock Marketing and Foundation; Colette Scrimger, health officer at Barry-Eaton District Health Department; and David Baum, president of Hastings Fiberglass. Cost for the summit is $5 which includes lunch. RSVP to the Barry County Chamber of Commerce, 269945-2454, or by email to carol@mibarry.com. Habitat dinner planned tomorrow A Swiss steak and chicken dinner will be served by Barry County Habitat for Humanity volunteers Friday, Oct. 19, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Hastings First United Methodist Church, at the corner of Green and Church streets. In addition to the meats, the meal will include potatoes and gravy, vegetable, salad, beverage and desserts. Barry County Habitat for Humanity is a Christian housing ministry working with low-income families to provide simple, quality, affordable homes in Barry County. For more information, call 269-948-9939. Love Inc. coordinating Christmas aid programs Barry County Love Inc. has begun coordinating names of children and families needing help this Christmas season. Thornapple Valley Church is seeking names of children from preschool through 16 years old and their families, particularly in the Hastings and Middleville areas, to help this holiday season. Families are asked to sign up in person at Love, Inc., 305 S. Michigan Ave., Hastings, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. TVC organizers said that when they hit their limit this year, they will not take any more names. Delton is also asking that families with children in need of assistance also sign up at Love, Inc. Those in need of assistance in the Lake Odessa area are asked to sign up by calling Alan Goodemoot, 269-367-4942. Nashville is collecting names for its “Wish Upon a Star” program for children up to 16 years of age from the Maple Valley school district. In the Freeport area, sign-up slips are available at the Freeport District Library during regular library hours. BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, October 18, 2012 Services set for mayor, city seeks successor for both mayor and trustee Hastings City Hall will be closed from approximately 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, Oct. 22, to allow city employees to attend the funeral of Hastings Mayor Bob May, who died Tuesday, Oct. 16, after a long battle with cancer. Services will be at 11 a.m. Monday at First Presbyterian Church, 405 N. M-37 Highway, Hastings. May was appointed council member for the 2nd Ward in 1992 and was elected to the same in 1994, 1998 and 2002. He served as mayor pro-tem 2001-03. He was elected mayor in 2004 and re-elected in 2008. May graduated from Three Rivers High School in 1964 and served in the U.S. Navy from 1965 through 1971. After leaving the military, he worked for Kroger for 10 years and Pepsi for 30 years. He was a member of the Nashville VFW and also a member and past commander of American Legion Post 45 in Hastings and the current commander of the Sons of the Legion. He was involved in the Boy Scouts of America throughout his life, first as a Scout, then as leader. In 2003 the Boy Scouts presented him with an award for saving a woman from drowning. May was a member of the Hastings Kiwanis Club, the First Presbyterian Church of Hastings and was awarded the Book of Golden Deeds in 2008. May participated in Relay for Life and was the first recipient of the Robert L. May Humanitarian Award from the American Cancer Society. May also participated in the March of Dimes Walk for Babies. Hastings Mayor Pro-tem Brenda McNabbStange will continue to serve as mayor until a successor is appointed. The Hastings City Council has 45 days to name a new mayor, or a special election must be held. The new mayor may be selected from seated members of the council or from the qualified electorate residing in any of the city’s four wards. The city is also currently seeking a candidate from the 1st Ward to fill the seat previously held by trustee Waylon Black, who resigned in September. Those appointed to fill the vacancies left by May and Black will serve until the next regular city election slated for November 2013. Anyone interested in either position should call, 269-945-2468, for more information or pick up an application at city hall, 201 E. State St.. Baum Center for Health dedicated Earlene Baum cuts the ceremonial ribbon at the Baum Center for Health Oct. 15. Pictured are (from left) Mike O’Mara, Scott McKeown, Janine Dalman, David Baum, Larry Baum, Earlene Baum, Maggie Coleman, Sheryl Lewis Blake, Dr. Peter Manring, Susan Price, Dr. Sanjay Dalal, Jim Wincek and Valerie Byrnes. Teachers speak out against proposed salary reductions by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer What’s old is new again. The Hastings Board of Education and Hastings Superintendent Todd Geerlings, guided by Michigan Association of School Boards consultant Tom White, have dragged contract negotiations with the Hastings Education Association into the public forum, and the HEA has responded in kind. The Hastings Board of Education meeting Monday evening was standing-room only as 35 members of the HEA addressed the board regarding the proposed 6 percent in-schedule salary decrease, which stalled negotiations last week, meaning both parties will now enter a non-binding fact-finding hearing with a state judge. Each HEA member who spoke ended with the same scripted phrase: “We are committed to kids. We are committed to education, and we are willing to help.” The teachers spoke about the hours they put in after school and on weekends, paying for classroom supplies out of their own pockets, the impact of a pay freeze on family budgets, the district’s history of alleged financial mismanagement and poor decision-making and more. Steve Laubaugh, who has taught in Hastings Area Schools for 17 years, summed up his colleagues’ statements. Laubaugh said teachers put in long hours because they love their jobs, and, while he acknowledged that administration and board members also do what they do because they value education, he said the district’s teachers are the front-line employees. “We are the people that greet those kids in the morning and send them home; we are Hastings education,” he said and quoted Banner editor Doug VanderLaan, who wrote a series of articles on Hastings High School graduates and spoke at the annual Business, Industry and Education luncheon at the beginning of the school year. “‘The graduates we talked to, it’s amazing the futures they have before them based on what they learned and were taught here. What they were thankful for Hastings Area Schools teachers line the walls of the Southeastern Elementary School’s multi-purpose room during the board of education meeting Monday evening. were the teachers that wrote specific suggestions on their homework, telling them how to improve. They appreciated teachers that started every class with a smile and showed them that they were ready to teach. They appreciated teachers that organized real-life experiences. They appreciated teachers that loved music so much that they wanted their students to pursue and continue it. And, they appreciated the elementary schools because when the teachers saw a student not being challenged, they were quick to put a project in front of them and to not lose the momentum.’ “We are those teachers,” said Laubaugh. “We also are willing to help. [The board] has made a decision to go public with the idea that we won’t settle a contract, and the district is worse off because of that. Well, as multiple speakers have addressed, our financial situation is shaky; but, it is not because the teachers have cost you too much in salaries. “The situation that we’re in comes down to two simple things, and neither of them have anything to do with math — cooperation and trust,” he said. “We have tried to cooperate and helped save. We have compromised. We’ve negotiated. We’ve given. And now, you’ve said, ‘You won’t give this.’ That is not cooperation. That’s not compromise. We are not here asking for a raise. We aren’t even here to ask you to freeze our salaries. We are here to offer you money back. We want you to have an improved fund balance. I am willing to back smaller paychecks for this year to fix our district. But, I am not ready to take a permanent smaller paycheck. That is the differ- ence between your on-scale cuts and our offscale cuts.” When the board, led by then-interim Superintendent of Schools Michelle Falcon, negotiated its most recent contract with the Hastings Education Association in 2011, it was touted as a new day in negotiations when the teachers’ association and the school district could work together to reach a compromise without a mediator and without dragging the process into the public arena. “There’s a saying in labor negotiations that if nobody’s happy, then you probably have a good contract,” said White when the current contract, with a pay freeze and limited reopener for salary negotiations in 2012, was See REDUCTIONS, page 2 �Page 2 — Thursday, October 18, 2012 — The Hastings Banner REDUCTIONS, continued from page 1 ratified by the board in 2011. “There’s things for your employees to be distressed about ... It’s hard for them to take zero [increases] and pay more for insurance. It’s hard for the board because the district is in a difficult financial situation and would have liked to have had more coming out ... I feel very confident and very comfortable that this was a fair deal that will allow us to right the ship and set us on a path that will benefit the district for the long run.” White used the ship analogy again last week after the HEA did not ratify the proposed 6 percent on-scale salary reduction. “They are willing to take a pay cut, but it’s not large enough or long enough,” he said. “They have a lack of trust in the district’s finances, and I understand that, but we’ve righted the ship.” Monday evening, Laubaugh agreed with White’s assessment regarding lack of trust and reiterated Abraham Lincoln’s famous, “You can’t fool all of the people, all of the time,” then said, “We’ve been fooled before by the decisions that you have made; so we don’t trust you, yet. You’ve broken our trust ... “You’ve righted the ship. We’d like to believe that, we really would ... If you are going to sail this ship of Hastings Area Schools with [new administration], we’d actually like to see it work ... ” he said. “Well, trust is built over time. We’d like to solve the budget problem this year, just like you have asked. But, our members want you to prove it before committing to salary cuts that will affect us year after year. An on-scale cut is not necessary to fix this district right now.” The difference between the 6 percent onscale reduction proposed by the board and the 6 percent off-schedule reduction counter offer from the HEA is the duration of the salary cut. The HEA wants a one-time, one-year salary reduction good until the end of the current two-year contract. The administration wants the HEA to take a permanent salary cut. If the reduction was off-schedule the HEA would begin salary negotiations at the pre-reduction rate, if it were on-scale, as the board has proposed, negotiations would start with the reduced salaries. Either way the 6 percent reduction would have eliminated the district’s budget deficit and possibly lead to a 4 percent fund balance. The Michigan Department of Education recommends districts maintain a 15 percent fund balance. However, White estimates that due to the current funding crisis, most Michigan schools have an average fund balance of approximately 10 percent. Prior to the public comment portion of the meeting, White gave a presentation outlining the board and administration’s position. He cited declining enrollment, reduced state funding, a deficit budget as of the end of the 2011-12 school year, and the district’s rank for teacher salaries among public school districts in the state of Michigan a as primarily motivating factors for requesting the salary reduction. White said teacher salaries and fringe benefits account for the largest percentage of the district’s expenses. “We want the public and the teachers in attendance to understand what is going on in the district; we also want you to know ... we understand the difficulty of what we are asking,” he said. “It’s not easy to ask. It’s not an easy thing to do. We understand that. But, as we look at the situation, from the board’s perspective, we are trying to do what we think is in the best long-term interest of the district.” White said that because the HEA rejected the tentative 6 percent on-scale salary reduction, the board is now proposing a 10 percent on-scale reduction subject to renegotiation at the end of the current contract. Geerlings explained in an interview with the Banner Tuesday the proposed salary reduction has been increased because with every payroll that passes while negotiations continue, the district does not realize the savings it would have had the 6 percent reduction been approved last week. “It’s not permanent in the pure sense of the word, it is 10 percent and then it will be renegotiated,” he said. “The real issue here is, is this something that comes off the salary schedule or is it something that is temporary?” As with the previous proposal, the sticking point is whether the reduction is on or offschedule because that will determine the base for renegotiating teacher salaries when the contract expires in 2013. For now, the district and the HEA are coordinating when to hold the fact-finding session. After the fact-finding hearing, the judge will have 30 days to issue a non-binding ruling followed by a mandatory 60-day “cooling-off,” or negotiating period. If, at the end of the 60 days, the district and the association have not reached an agreement, the district has the right to impose its last best offer on the teachers. In other business, the board: • Accepted the personnel report which included the following: Appointments — Kelsi Harden, life guard, Community Education and Recreation Center; Caitlin Maurer, part-time music teacher Southeastern and Star elementary schools; Luella Raymond, substitute bus driver; transfer/reassignment — Terri Pennepacker, food service General I, Star Elementary, to replace Beth Richardson, who resigned from the post. • Accepted the following donations: Hastings Athletic Boosters, $6,500 to be used of equipment and supplies for the fall 2012 athletic season; Hastings Education Enrichment Foundation, $12,936 to defray the cost of 16 different activities and programs. • Announced that the next regular work session of the board will be at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 13, in the multi-purpose room of Hastings Middle School, 232 W. Grand St., and the next regular meeting of the board will begin at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 19, in the multi-purpose room of Star Elementary School, 1900 Star School Road. Four Hastings High School students named to regional honors choir Kelsi Harden named 2013 Commended Student Hastings High School Principal Kevin Riggs has announced that senior Kelsi Harden has been named a Commended Student in the 2013 National Merit Scholarship Program. A letter of commendation from the school and the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, which conducts the program, will be presented by the Riggs to Harden. She is the daughter of Kim Harden. About 34,000 commended students throughout the nation are being recognized for their academic promise. Although they will not continue in the 2013 competition for national Merit Scholarship awards, commended students placed among the top 5 percent of more than 1.5 million students who entered the 2013 competition by taking 2011 preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. “Recognizing academically talented students plays a fundamental role in the advancement of educational excellence within our nation,” said an NMSC spokesperson. “The young people recognized as commended students represent some of the best and brightest minds in the country as demonstrated by their outstanding performances in our highly competitive program. We sincerely hope this recognition will provide them with additional educational outlets and motivate them in their pursuit of academic achievement.” In high school, Harden has participated in Kelsi Harden Key Club, student council, Science Olympiad, tennis, Youth in Government, volleyball, basketball, peer tutoring, cross country and Youth Leadership Work Group. She is a member of the National Honor Society. J-Ad Graphics announces ‘voluntary subscription’ program Hastings High School students, (from left) Olivia Rose, Tom Peurach, Alex Cherry and Natalie Anderson, have been selected to be a part of the District B regional Honors Choir, for a performance Saturday, Dec. 1. Last weekend, six members of Hastings High School’s Varsity Singers traveled to Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo to audition for the District B Regional Honors Choir, and Tuesday it was announced that four have been selected: sophomore Natalie Anderson and seniors Alex Cherry, Tom Peurach and Olivia Rose. “This audition was a huge undertaking for these students, considering the music that was required for audition was on back-order this year,” said Hastings High School Choir Director Matthew Callaghan. “Students prepared hard for less than two weeks and were required to sing the selected audition piece from memory without piano accompaniment and then were asked to sightread a piece of music for them.” More than 300 students auditioned from area school districts, including Allegan, Battle Creek, Charlotte, Grand Ledge, Holt, Hopkins, Kalamazoo and more. Out of that number, only half are selected to join this choir, which meets for one rehearsal and then performs a large concert Saturday, Dec. 1, at the Dalton Recital Hall at Western Michigan University. Regional honors choir members will also have a chance to audition for the State Honors Choir Dec. 1, as well. That audition will be more intense and will test more of the skills of the singers, said Callaghan. The 150 students selected for the State Honors Choir will spend four days in Grand Rapids preparing for a concert at DeVos Performance hall in downtown Grand Rapids, Friday, Jan. 19. The community is invited to hear all Hastings high school and middle school choirs perform a free concert Wednesday, Oct. 24, at Central Auditorium in Hastings. First frost expected to end deer EHD cycle Readers of The Banner’s sister publications, The Reminder, The Maple Valley News, The Lakewood News and The Sun and News, have been introduced in the past two weeks to a new “voluntary subscription” program that publishers J-Ad Graphics Inc. hope will be a needed assist to maintaining its free circulation coverage throughout the area. “Advertisers have helped us build a business model that served us for more than 60 years,” says Fred Jacobs, vice president of J-Ad Graphics. “The support received from advertising sales allowed us to provide news coverage in free circulation of these newspapers to our local communities. “But economic times have changed. The sluggish economy and the loss of so many local businesses that provided us advertising revenue have placed a severe burden on our bottom line. Add to that the exponential price increases in paper, ink and the fuel needed to deliver those papers, and you can see why so many newspapers in other communities have either shut down or gone to Internet coverage like we’ve seen in Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo and Battle Creek.” Jacobs uses the automotive industry as a prime example of the new economic landscape. Just a few years ago, the Barry County area had 10 auto dealerships that were weekly newspaper advertisers. Today, all 10 have closed, leaving J-Ad Graphics with less income and smaller papers. After studying similar programs at free circulation newspapers throughout the country for the past two years, Jacobs and his brothers, John and Steve, made the decision to appeal to readers though a voluntary subscription program. Special “publishing partnership” envelopes will appear with each of the free circulation newspapers being distributed this weekend. Readers will not only be asked for whatever financial support they can provide, they’ll also be asked to respond to an enclosed poll in which J-Ad Graphics Inc. is seeking feedback. “The financial support is vital, of course,” said Fred Jacobs, “but I’m as interested in the poll response. It’s the first time we’ve done a direct solicitation, and it’s important to us and to our staff to know how the community feels about the job we’re doing.” Jacobs and his brothers are second-generation publishers, carrying on a tradition begun by their parents, Mel and Alice Jacobs, when they started the Reminder in the 1940s. The Jacobs family’s devotion to print circulation runs long and deep. “A newspaper is a community treasure,” says Fred Jacobs. “It puts together everything residents need to know about the community in which they live — without the need for electricity or special connections. You can read it with a cup of coffee, at work or nearly anyplace. And we cover everything from births to deaths to everything in between. “Our staff members attend more meetings than any single one of us and report what happened so our community can be informed. We’re interested in everything from local clubs, schools, businesses, municipalities, local sports, engagements, weddings and anniversaries. “A community’s newspaper is just too valuable a community resource to let go away. That’s why we’re appealing to our readers in this fight. They’ve built our community, and that’s why we value them so highly. We look forward to them joining us as publishing partners.” Call (269) 945-9554 any time to place your ad in the Hastings Banner This doe takes her final breaths after stumbling into some shrubs in a residential yard within the Hastings city limits Monday morning. Police were called after neighbors saw the deer struggling to walk. She died just as an officer arrived. by David DeDecker Staff Writer The deer bowhunting season is well underway. With the first hard frosts of the season, experts say the threat of a continuing spread of epizootic hemorrhagic disease is over. Barry County residents have been calling wildlife authorities about an alarming number of dead deer found around local ponds, creeks and lakes. EHD is a virus transmitted from deer to deer by a biting fly, called a midge. The midge is killed by a heavy frost. “The frost should have put an end to the EHD cycle for this year,” said DNR Biologist Sara Schaefer. “Reports have slowed down, and many of the deer hunters and farmers are coming upon dead deer as they are out doing other things. The carcasses are well decomposed. So far, the Department of Public Health has not been concerned about the carcasses.” As of Oct. 8, Ionia County still led the state in reported EHD cases in whitetail deer, at 2,077. Kent County followed with 1,073, and Barry County had nearly 913 reported cases. The state total as of Oct. 8 was 8,671, according to the state’s emerging diseases website. EHD had been reported in 33 of Michigan’s 83 counties. Eric Pessel, director of environmental health services for the Barry-Eaton District Health Department, said the virus is not communicable and does not spread to humans. He said the decaying carcasses present no danger to the public as a whole, even though many deer are found dead in one location. Pessell said the deer are not dying in public places, and they are more likely to die in rural areas on larger open tracts of land. “Decay is not a public health issue right now,” said Pessell. “Unless the dead deer begin to attract disease-carrying vermin, such as rats. However, people should not eat deer they find because they don’t know how long the deer have been dead.” For more information on the 2012 EHD season go to www.michigan.gov/dnr and search for EHD. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 18, 2012 — Page 3 Baum Center for Health is celebrated and dedicated by David DeDecker Staff Writer The Baum Center for Health Dialysis Center was dedicated with fanfare the evening of Oct. 15. Pennock CEO Sheryl Lewis Blake said the creation of the center was a long road, but with perseverance and patience, the 5,500-square-foot dialysis center has become a reality. “It has been quite a journey to get here,” said Lewis Blake. “In 2007, Pennock went out into the community and conducted over 30 meetings. We talked to people about what the community wanted and what services were needed. Dialysis was in the top three.” Lewis Blake explained Pennock conducted extensive research to learn that more than 250 people within 15 miles of Pennock Hospital were being treated for kidney-related ailments. More than 40 local people were traveling outside of Barry County to receive kidney dialysis treatment. Those people, she said, were traveling 90 minutes round trip for dialysis, three times per week, and each dialysis treatment lasts three to five hours. “To bring this project to fruition, a complex partnership was needed,” she said. “We needed to recruit physicians, find a company who would do the provision of care, work with the hospital’s board of trustees and a new committee called New Services Strategic Planning. There was also a relationship forged with a nephrology center in Kalamazoo and the national company called Fresenius.” The Pennock board approved a project in 2011 to bring a dialysis center to Barry County. The Pennock Foundation then approved a $500,000 capital campaign to renovate the abandoned Viatec building, which is located behind the hospital, but fronts State Street. “We were blessed and very fortunate that Larry and Earlene Baum came forward and gifted the money for the renovation,” said Lewis Blake. “The old warehouse was fraught with all kinds of issues and challenges. The time table was elongated as state and federal inspections took over 120 days.” Lewis Blake went on to thank the people involved in the project, including Pennock staff, the board of trustees, committee members, foundation members, physicians, Fresenius, the construction company and contractors. The Baum Center for Health is located in the old Viatec building on West State Street, just east of Cook Road. Fresenius Care Director of Operations Susan Price spoke about kidney disease. She said one in 10 American adults, or 20 million people, have some sort of kidney failure. Fresenius provides 32 million kidney treatments nationwide on a yearly basis. Fresenius treats approximately 215,000 patients a year, has 45,000 employees, and is the largest dialysis provider in the world. Dr. Peter Manring is a nephrologist and the medical director of the Baum Center for Health Fresenius Dialysis Center. “You really should be proud of yourself as a community for bringing this forth,” said Manring. “This is such an important part of the care for people in this community. This facility is really a statement of who Hastings is, and what Hastings can do as a group, especially with the great help from the Baum family. You have a state-of-the-art dialysis unit right here. It’s beautiful. I thank you and my patients are grateful.” Hastings resident John Lenz spoke next. He is the son of late Jack Lenz, who was a life-long friend and classmate of the Baums. He brought a patient-family perspective to the celebration. John Lenz said his dad’s kidneys began to fail in 2010, after years of heart issues. “He always wanted his health care closer to home, right here in Hastings. In November 2011, Jack began dialysis three days a week in Grand Rapids. His life became surrounded by his dialysis, and finding rides back and forth to Grand Rapids daunted Jack. It was exhausting and time-consuming. “It was the promise of Larry and Earlene that gave him hope. He always talked about the dialysis center that was going to open soon with a chair built just for him. If you knew Jack, he told you the center was being built just for him. Sadly, Jack passed away April 9 while in Arizona. Undoubtedly, it was Jack’s hope to return to Hastings and have his dialysis done right here.” Next, Barb and Jim Toburen, and the Pennock Foundation, donated two photographs by Hastings photographer Steve White to the center, and Maggie Coleman presented the dedica- John Lenz speaks about his late father, Jack Lenz, and what the promise of the Baum Center for Health Dialysis Center meant to his dad. The back of the Baum Center bears Fresenius Medical Center signage. village limits, the restriction is already in place. Once the site is officially closed, the village will receive a $10,000 payment from Crystal Flash for the park property contamination. • Village trick-or-treat hours will be from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Oct. 31, unless the holiday falls on a Sunday, in which case the date will be moved to Oct. 30. • Village Manager Rebecca Fleury reported the Michigan State Housing Development Authority visited Middleville Oct. 4 talking with partners about the building at 101 E. Main St. Partners are considering a rental rehabilitation program through MSHDA. • The former Metaldyne site is listed with the real estate management firm Collier’s of Grand Rapids. Collier’s is actively marketing the site and will put it up for auction in November. Village officials say they are hopeful a new industrial user will be found for the facility. • Department of Public Works Director Duane Weeks said new fuel tanks for the village have been delivered and will be in use soon. The tanks, one for gas and one for diesel fuel, will be located at the DPW facility in secured areas. Village officials expect to get better prices on fuel by buying in bulk. • Two of the first bond projects for the village are nearing completion. The Cardinal Court watermain project and the North Block Alley utilities project were both successful and nearing completion. • Weeks also reported work at Calvin Hill Park also was finished, including paving the parking lot and work on the basketball court. Weeks said the village is still waiting for additional bids on a 20-by-30-foot pavilion for the park, but he anticipates that work may also still be done this year. • County Commissioner Dan Parker informed the council of a public hearing on the 2013 Barry County budget at 9 a.m. Oct. 23. tion to the Baums. “Larry and Earlene have consistently demonstrated their inherent ability to recognize and address the needs of our community,” said Coleman. “The Pennock Foundation and the patients of this community are grateful for their generous gift and their unwavering commitment to improving the health of Barry County.” Executive Director of the Pennock Foundation Janine Dalman also presented the Baums with a resolution from the Pennock Foundation, thanking them for their involvement, dedication and leadership in the community. Holding back emotions, Larry Baum said, “Earlene and I would like to thank David [Baum] and Pennock Hospital for giving us the opportunity to help this wonderful community.” “There is over a million dollar investment in facility, infrastructure and equipment,” said Lewis Blake. “... Let’s not forget the jobs created. Not only did we create construction jobs, but we also have additional people employed in Hastings — more nurses who are Fresenius staff. “In summary, I think of the incomparable gift the Baums have made and am reminded of the quote, ‘What we have done for ourselves alone dies with us. What we have done for others, and for our community, remains and is immortal,’” said Lewis Blake in closing. “Thank you, Earlene and Larry. You have created a renewed opportunity for hope and health in this community.” This dedication plaque commemorates Larry and Earlene Baum’s dedication to the community and its health. Warm Up to our Great Loan Rate! 1 Year at APR* Bradford White seeks tax abatement for expansion project by Julie Makarewicz Staff Writer The Middleville Village Council set a public hearing Tuesday, Oct. 23, on a request for an industrial tax abatement from the Bradford White Corporation. The meeting will begin at 7 p.m. in the village hall. Council members heard Tuesday, Oct. 9, that Bradford White, the largest employer in Barry County, is seeking tax abatement on its current expansion project, the total value of which is estimated at $21.54 million. Bradford White officials are expected to attend the Oct. 23 meeting to discuss the tax abatement application. A tax abatement means the company would get a multi-year break on a portion of taxes due on the new real and personal property. In other matters at the village council meeting: • The council approved a closure of the Crystal Flash monitoring site. It has been monitored since 1990 when there were confirmed releases from underground storage tanks. The property is located at 615 S. Broadway. American Hydrogeology has completed extensive investigations in the soil and groundwater quality at and around the site. The village’s Spring Park property is located adjacent to the site, and contaminated groundwater was found on a portion of the park site. More than 2,000 cubic yards of contaminated soils were removed from the site, a soil vapor extraction system was operated to clean up additional soil, and a groundwater treatment system was operated. Officials with American Hydrogeology say the groundwater contamination is stable and decreasing. However, it still exceeds the MDEQ criteria for drinking water. The village cannot allow groundwater be used for drinking purposes on the site. Village officials said since the village already prohibits any new wells within the Executive Director of the Pennock Foundation Janine Dalman (left) reads the Baum Center dedication to Pennock Board of Directors Chair Maggie Coleman and Larry and Earlene Baum. 1% New reasons come with changing seasons... with this great rate, why wait? 77571749 �Page 4 — Thursday, October 18, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Baums honored at health center dedication Jodi White of Hastings snapped this photo of a great blue heron as it sought a dinner of unsuspecting fish. Did you See? We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@jadgraphics.com. Do you know? Funny business Do you recognize any of these men or know why they are in costume? One map on the wall and a booklet on the table read “Barry County.” Do you know where they are or why the photo was taken? What can you tell us about this photo? Have you The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event to reunite the photos with their original clippings or identify photos that may never have been used. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@j-adgraphics.com; or call 269-9459554. Dorotha Cooper of Hastings recognized Rolfe Bulling of Bulling’s Appliances, the man on the right, in last week’s photo. Bulling’s store was near her parents’ coffee shop on State Street in downtown Hastings. Cooper suggested the Sparton radio in the photo came from Bulling’s. She did not recognize anyone else in the photo. met? Deb Hatfield is the marketing director at Walker, Fluke and Sheldon PLC, but she does much more for the community. She is involved with Hastings Kiwanis Club, Barry County Chamber of Commerce, the Thornapple Arts Council and many other organizations, businesses and government entities. Favorite book: I love reading and I love books, but my most recent book is Saving Frank which is about Frank Lloyd Wright the architect. Favorite elementary school memory: It would have been in fifth grade. I was in a split class of fourth and fifth graders, so I had the same teacher for both grades. Up until that point in my life, I did not like to read. I was a poor reader. She made reading fun and now I read any chance I get. Her name was Paula Wasink, in Hamilton, and she made me truly believe I could read, and not everyone reads the same, and that reading can be fun. Person you would most like to meet, past or present: Abraham Lincoln. He had the ability to bring people together, and that is something I would like to do better. If I were president: Health insurance and the health care system is so important. I would like to fix it. It needs repair, and I think everyone should have access that needs access ... which is everyone. ... We Monday evening, Pennock Health Services held a special dedication ceremony to celebrate the official opening of its new 5,500-square-foot dialysis center located in the Baum Center for Health on West State Street in Hastings. The dialysis center was made possible through the generosity of Larry and Earlene Baum of Hastings. During a special event Monday, Larry told those in attendance that his son David had returned from a meeting of the Pennock Foundation Board where they discussed plans to launch a capital campaign to raise funds for a new dialysis center. According to Pennock Health Services Chief Executive Officer Sheryl Lewis Blake, the board of trustees, leadership and staff had spent more than two years investigating the need for dialysis and working through a strategic plan to bring dialysis services here. “Although we knew there was a need, we did not know to what degree and were surprised to find the large number of patients within a 15-mile radius of the hospital,” said Lewis Blake. Realizing the need for dialysis services in our community, it didn’t take long for Larry and Earlene to decide they wanted to be a part of such a special project and offer Pennock the funds needed. Their gift helped avoid the need for a local fundraising campaign. “It was able to happen sooner rather than later, and it became another step in keeping Hastings the great community that it is,” said Earlene. For years, the hospital talked about the possibility of offering dialysis services in Hastings. More recently, it has come up in community discussions, in surveys and in strategic planning at the hospital, but, in order to make it a reality, the board needed a solid plan and the support of a partnering company to make it possible. When Pennock purchased the building, now called the Baum Center for Health, it was anticipating future growth of the organization. In recent years, the hospital has moved the Pennock Home Care, hospice and its financial services department to the facility, which is located behind the hospital, but facing State Street, and still has plenty of room for expansion. Plus, when it purchased the building, the hospital got the additional parking necessary to help lighten the load at the hospital. So, with the building in place and the study complete, Pennock officials were ready to proceed with their plans. To make the project successful, Pennock forged a relationship with Nephrology Center from Kalamazoo to provide the medical coverage and Fresenius Medical Care to build and operate the facility. According to Susan Price, director of operations for Fresenius Medical Care, more than 20 million people are in need of dialysis services — 1 in every 10 adults. Fresenius is the largest provider of dialysis services in the world, with over 35,000 employees dedicated to taking care of people. With its experience, Pennock could proceed with the confidence that the center would be successful. That’s what it’s all about for the Baums, who are dedicated to making a difference in their community. Through their philanthropy, our community and its citizens receive many benefits. “We must not merely will our neighbors good but actually work to bring it about,” said Thomas Aquinas. The Baums are doing just that — affecting our community with their special giving. A little over 10 years ago, with the help of Earlene’s parents, Earl and Virginia McMullin, the families gave the YMCA Camp Algonquin new life. Their gift helped to build a new lodge with a large hall, kitchen, offices and restrooms and all new cabins for campers to enjoy. The families then established an endowment fund to ensure the YMCA the funds would be there to operate the camp for generations to come. Due to the Baums’ support, the Hastings schools have a new stadium with a state-of-the-art football field. The Baums have supported the Hastings library, the Garage Works program at Gilmore Car Museum and, currently, Larry serves on the Gilmore board, giving his time and talent to help grow the facility. Due to Larry’s strong business background, he spearheaded a program for the Hastings airport to grow and become self-sufficient within five years. Through their giving, the Baums have shown their dedication to our community and their willingness to make it a better place for all of us. The gifts listed above are only those that are publicly known, their heartfelt and anonymous giving extends even farther. Recently the couple was instrumental in helping the First Presbyterian Church realize its goal of building a beautiful new church just west of Hastings. With the relocation of the church from its longtime home in downtown Hastings, the vacant building opened the possibility for the Barry Community Foundation to bring together a number of non-profits under one roof as an enrichment center to better serve our community. When Earlene heard of the financial difficulties the Riverside Cemetery Corporation was experiencing, she got involved to help find a way to save the cemetery, give it new life and fund the maintenance forever. These are just a few examples of how the Baums have been able to impact our community with their dedication to local giving. Proverbs 11:25, says, “Be generous and you will be prosperous, help others and you will be helped.” Monday, Pennock invited a number of people throughout our community to celebrate the opening of the new dialysis center and to acknowledge the Baums for their sincere acts of kindness and generosity. “To have made even one person’s life a little better, that is to succeed,” said Thoreau. Due to their giving, the Baums have helped impact our lives and made our little part of the world a better place to live. Fred Jacobs, vice president, J-Ad Graphics If you could give someone anything in the world, what would it be? That’s kind of emotional for me. It would be to give my daughter the ability to walk and to be a normal teenager. Favorite movie: I really like the movie “Pretty Woman.” I like Julia Roberts, and I think she is a good actor. She was really good in “The Pelican Brief,” too. Any James Bond movie — they have cool cars and cool gadgets. ... I like all the Bond men. Best thing about Barry County: I think the people of Barry County are the most giving. I truly believe that if there is a need or something great for the community, people step up to the plate. Additionally, if we could get more people to just take one more step, or more people to volunteer for one thing they are passionate about, Barry County could be above amazing. We could be unstoppable. Deb Hatfield have a lot of smart people out there and if we take the politics out of it, we could figure it out. Best advice ever received: Never give up. Each week, The Banner profiles a person from the community working behind the scenes, whose efforts may not make headlines, but whose dedication makes Barry County shine. We’ll provide a quick peek each week at some of Barry County’s stars. Do you know someone who should be featured? Send information to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@jadgraphics.com. This photo of the Baum family (from left) Dave, Larry and Earlene Baum, was taken during the kidney dialysis center’s dedication. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 18, 2012 — Page 5 Cutting commissioner perks would help county budget IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV Candidates should repay county To the editor: While I was a county commissioner 200708, I was chair of the facilities committee. We worked hard on a regular basis to approve badly needed major renovations to the jail. The committee was made up of Commissioners Mark Englerth, Don Nevins, myself, Sheriff Dar Leaf and Barry County Jail employees. While performing an approved renovation project at the county jail, Jim Dull (working as an independent contractor-editor’s note) submitted an additional $2,200 expense for work completed. Later, it was proven in court that Jim Dull paid then-Commissioner Mark Englerth for working on his project. An out-of-town Judge heard this as a civil case and determined it was illegal for Englerth to do work for the county while a county commissioner and a civil fine/ticket of $100 was issued to Englerth. If I had known at the time what some of that extra $2,200 expense was really for, I would have stopped the extra payment. I now hear that Jim Dull and other county commissioner primary winners attended a state commissioners conference at Shanty Creek at the county’s expense before they have been elected Nov. 6. Without the November election over, how do you spend taxpayer dollars on candidates to a state conference until they are elected officials? I suggest that the non-elected candidates pay back the county for all the expenses covered by the county for them to attend the state commissioners conference. Craig Stolsonburg made an autocratic decision to invite the non-elected candidates to the conference — a decision that he admitted should have been brought before the full board. The county funds spent on the non-elected candidates need to be paid back. Prior to being elected, others and myself — rightly so — were never asked to any allexpense paid out-of-town overnight conferences that provided very little training before taking the oath of office. Jim Dull last week finally showed up at county board meeting after it was brought to light that he has not attended a commissioners board meeting and has never attended committee meetings to better understand the real issues and day-to-day operations of our county government. That is where the real education takes place, not at a state commissioners conference. Does Jim Dull really want to be a commissioner? Voters of Assyria, Baltimore, Johnstown, Maple Grove Townships need to do the right thing and write in Jeff VanNortwick as their 7th District County Commissioner Nov. 6. He is honest, hard-working, cares about the county and deserves re-election. Keith Ferris, Hastings Former county commissioner Party has become radicalized To the editor: I am seeing an all-out assault by the moneydominated Republican Party to completely destroy all unions. Throughout our history, the long-fought (and sometimes bloody) battle for union rights made it possible for millions of proud working families to enjoy a decent middle class lifestyle. Do they want to rule us as an oligarchy? The Webster dictionary description of democracy is “government by the people; a form of government in which the supreme power is vested in the people and exercised directly by them or by their elected agents under a free electoral system.” The description of an oligarchy, is “a form of government in which the power is vested in a few persons or a dominant class or clique; government of the few.” As a former Republican, I believe that the average middle class Republican voter does not realize how radicalized their Republican senators and representatives have become. Maybe these same politicians do not realize it themselves as they propose to reduce our national debt at the expense of our working middle class, while giving the wealthiest 2 percent a free pass to accumulate more wealth. Or maybe they are just power hungry. Whatever the Republican motive for defeating Barak Obama at any cost, our democracy has served us throughout our history and it must be preserved by giving Obama another four years by voting Nov. 6. It is our duty to vote for government by the people. Jack Kineman, Hastings To the editor: First, I have to agree with the letter from Krista Jones about “Sheriffs still stand” Maybe our commissioners should worry more about the people who hang together and manufacture and sell drugs. As I have said before, our commissioners would not have to argue about the budget if they only got paid per meeting – not all the perks. There are people who work for our county only part-time and they have to pay for their insurance — why not the commissioners? With a savings of about $250,000, the county could afford to give the sheriff’s department what they need. If you look at the sheriff’s budget, the monies they are asking for is need not want. I hope the new commissioners coming in have more guts than the current ones. The sheriffs department is better now than before Dar Leaf took office. Another thing – how about if the adminis- Most visible candidate will get the vote To the editor: Who is Jim Dull? Mr. Dull is invisible. The only information I received about this candidate was a letter stating a bit about himself and his position on issues. Perhaps because he was successful in the primary election by 100 votes over Jeff VanNortwick for District 7 Barry County Board of Commissioners, he feels there’s no problem because he’s running unopposed. Therefore, he doesn’t have to be visible to the community in which he may serve. After researching the candidates (and what little there is to know about Jim Dull) it became apparent to me why would I want to elect someone who is invisible when there is a visible person who has been diligently working for our community for six years. I truly cannot vote for Jim Dull. When I heard that Commissioner Jeff VanNortwick Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. What do you think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. To the editor: After having read the Banner of Oct. 4 ,I felt compelled to write a few comments concerning Commissioner Jeff VanNortwick. First, I will say I am not one of his District 7 constituents but his behavior as a county commissioner does affect me. In the article concerning VanNortwick as a write-in candidate, he bashes Jim Dull. It sounds to me like VanNortwick is a poor loser. I would prefer the inexperienced, ready-tolearn candidate than vindictive behavior. I’m sure VanNortwick was not experienced or on top of the issues when he was elected the first time. New blood is needed on the board of commissioners; hopefully, Jim Dull will bring fresh ideas and represent the taxpayers without the animosity that VanNortwick has shown. Now VanNortwick wants to debate with Jim Dull. Why? This is something that should have been done before the primary, Jim has been voted the winner, no need now. I would expect any personal issues toward fellow commissioners, department heads or appointed officials to be left at the door. Voting against an issue because of a personal vendetta is wrong and not the job of an elected official. Voting by commissioners should be for the good of Barry County taxpayers, and if that includes going against personal issues, so be it. VanNortwick said Sheriff Dar Leaf campaigned against him in favor of Jim Dull. To my knowledge, there is no policy stating that is wrong unless it is during work hours. In past years, the candidates have campaigned against each other; this is no different. Some were caught doing it during work hours on taxpayers’ time. Concerning the issue VanNortwick has with Sheriff Leaf and his affiliation with the Constitutional Sheriffs and Peace Association, is there any police or guidelines that state this is wrong or illegal? The issue of hoarding ammunition by the sheriff department, I would much prefer law enforcement hoarded it versus the criminals. Should a call for law enforcement to your resident be necessary, officers should have enough ammunition to defend taxpayers and themselves. I think VanNortwick would be surprised how much ammunition is being hoarded by many taxpayers. Last week’s question: The Detroit Tigers are back in the Major League Baseball playoffs for a second straight year with hopes of returning to the World Series following their last appearance in 2006. Are the Tigers headed to the World Series? 79% 21% Yes No q q A stunt Scientifically significant John Doyle, Bellevue To the editor: There’s nothing better than the positive hard work and good old experience that Commissioner Jeff VanNortwick, who’s running as a write-in candidate Nov. 6, has shown during his past six years serving Barry County’s District 7. I don’t know Jim Dull, but I do know of the great work VanNortwick has done for the 7th District. He has demonstrated his commitment, sustainability and government transparency to the quality of life we hold so dear The Hastings Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Bonnie Mattson My last issues are the denial of budget requests by the register of deeds and the sheriff department requests for part-time personnel for the register of deeds and $14,000 for the sheriff department should have been approved from the money spent foolishly for an Animal Control Director at wages of $67,000. How about the $80,000 salary being paid for four days a month work by the Eaton County part-time equalization person that VanNortwick voted for? I hope the constituents of District 7 think twice before they write in VanNortwick on the Nov. 6 ballot. There is no place on the board of commissioners for his attitude and behavior to fairly represent the taxpayers of Barry County. Sandra VanDenburg, Hastings Experience speaks for itself The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Published by... For this week: Austrian daredevil Felix Baumgartner broke the human freefall record last week, jumping from a helium-filled balloon at over 24 miles altitude and breaking the sound barrier by falling at a speed of 833.9 miles per hour. Some say the daredevil feat will prove to be scientifically significant. What do you think it was? registered to be a write-in candidate, the decision made a lot of sense to me because I feel he’s the most qualified individual for the job. Let’s keep this visible person on the job by writing in Jeff VanNortwick for District 7 Barry County Commissioner on the Nov. 6 election ballot. No place on board for vindictive behavior Write Us A Letter: Know Your Legislators: trators, superintendent took pay cuts like they expect the teachers to do. The teachers use their own money if necessary to make sure they have enough supplies. It’s not like they get paid that much to begin with. Yet they still give because they care so much for their profession. Yeah, Hastings area school teachers. Deb James, Hastings • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 in our hearts, even in these hard economic times. VanNortwick has demonstrated his wisdom, fortitude and compassion for others countless times. I look forward to a prosperous future with Jeff VanNortwick as our county commissioner. We need Jeff more than ever to continue the great job he has helped to do on Barry County’s fiscal budget and other policies. Ruth Johnson, Baltimore Township Deer crashes rise in October and November On average, 146 vehicle/deer crashes occur every day in Michigan. According to the Michigan State Police Criminal Justice Information Center, a total of 53,592 crashes were reported in 2011, resulting in 1,464 injuries and eight deaths. That number is down from 2010, during which 55,867 crashes were reported. Many crashes go unreported, so actual crash numbers are estimated to be much higher. The top five counties for deer crashes were Kent (1,750), Oakland (1,736), Jackson (1,536), Calhoun (1,429) and Montcalm (1,340). Barry County had 918 reported crashes. Among other surrounding counties Allegan had 973 reported car/deer collisions; Eaton, 1,151; Ionia, 878; and Kalamazoo, 1,011. The Michigan Deer Crash Coalition says motorists can help avoid dangerous encounters with deer by following these tips: • Watch for deer, especially at dawn and dusk. • Deer move in herds, so one deer may be a sign that others are out of sight. • Deer also often travel single file, so if one crossed a road, chances are that more are nearby waiting to cross, too. When startled by an approaching vehicle, they can panic and dart out from any direction without warning. • Be alert all year long, especially on twolane roads. Watch for deer warning signs. They are placed at known deer-crossing areas and serve as a first alert that deer may be near. • Slow down when traveling through areas heavily populated by deer. “It’s important to understand that it’s safer to come to a controlled stop whenever a deer is in your path than to swerve and go off the road,” said State Transportation Director Kirk T. Steudle. “Don’t veer for deer or swerve to avoid an animal, because it can be more dangerous and even deadly.” The MDCC is an affiliation of groups representing law enforcement, traffic safety, the insurance industry, natural resources, higher education and strategic regional planning in the public and private sectors. For more information, visit the MDCC Web site at www.michigandeercrash.org. �Page 6 — Thursday, October 18, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Call for Classifieds Phone 269-945-9554 24 Hours a Day - 7 Days a Week For Hastings Banner ads! Worship Together… Area Obituaries Robert L. May Carlyle Borck 77571668 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Rev. Ryan Wieland. Sundays - 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Service; Sunday School and Nursery available during both services (Summer Schedule - Adult Sunday School: 9 a.m., Worship & Children’s Programs 10 a.m.) Youth Group, Covenant Prayer, Choir, Chimes, Praise Band, Quilting Group, Community Breakfasts and more! Call the church office at (269) 721-8077 (M/W/F 9 a.m.-12 p.m.), e-mail office@mei.net or visit www.countrychapelumc.org <http://www.countrychapelumc.org/> for more information SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 . HASTINGS ASSEMBLY OF GOD 1674 S. State Rd., Hastings, MI 49058 Phone 269-945-2285. Sunday morning service times: 9 a.m. with nursery and preschool available and 11 a.m. with nursery, preschool and kids’ church available. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 8:45 a.m. Traditional Worship; 10 a.m. Refreshments; 10:45 a.m. Contemporary Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Youth Pastor Eric Gillespie. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. for children and youth, and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Junior and Senior High Youth Group 6:00 p.m. , and several adult small group opportunities. Wednesday Mid-Week Pioneers at 6:30 p.m.: Pioneer Club, 4 years through 5th grade. Adults: Marriage Enrichment class, Women’s Prayer Group and a Men’s Bible Study. Thursday: Senior Adult (50+) Bible Study at 10 a.m. and lunch at Wendy’s, 11:30 a.m. Third Thursday Brunch at 9:30 a.m. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Sunday, October 21 - Worship Service 8 and 10:45 a.m. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. October 21 Men’s Alcoholics Anonymous 7 p.m. October 22 - Adventure Bible Study 7 p.m.; Recovery Bible Study 7:30 p.m. October 24 - Wordwatchers 10 a.m. October 25 - Clapper Kids 3:45 p.m.; Grace Notes 5:45 p.m.; Adult Choir 7:15 p.m. October 27 - Youth Event @ Charlton Park 3-5 p.m. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 945-2645, fax 269945-2698. Pastor Amy Luckey. http://www.discover-grace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot.com. Friday - 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday - 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday 4 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball. 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings Fiberglass Products 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 Raymond Arthur Mead 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 Hastings Mutual Insurance Company has announced a new marketing partnership with National Farmers Union. Through this partnership, Hastings Mutual will serve as an endorsed insurance carrier of Farmers Union and will offer a premium discount on its farmowners insurance policies to Farmers Union members in the states of Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan and Wisconsin. “We are thrilled to partner with National Farmers Union and the individual state organizations in our territory to offer increased benefits for our mutual members,” said Dan Hill, vice president of marketing for Hastings Mutual. “This partnership will also create a unique marketing opportunity for our independent insurance agents to service new farm insurance accounts.” In addition to offering insurance expertise and a farm policy discount, Hill said the partnership between Hastings Mutual and Farmers Union will support rural communities through farm safety training courses and materials, membership networking and educational events, community co-ops and additional farm industry resources for mutual members of the partner organizations. “Hastings Mutual is an outstanding insurance company that can offer top farm insurance products to our members, in addition to other great coverages including home, auto, and commercial insurance,” said Roger Johnson, president of National Farmers Union. “We look forward to the added resources and benefits available to our members through this strong partnership.” This partnership also seeks to increase growth for Farmers Union’s association memberships in the Midwest as well as continue to expand Hastings Mutual Insurance Company’s presence in the region’s farm insurance market. National Farmers Union has been working since 1902 to protect and enhance the economic well-being and quality of life for family farmers, ranchers and rural communities through advocating grassroots-driven policy positions adopted by its membership. For more information, visit the association website at www.nfu.org. For more information about Hastings Mutual, visit the company website at www.hastingsmutual.com. SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Lauer Family Funeral Homes HASTINGS, MI - Robert L. May, "Mayor Bob", age 66, of Hastings passed away Tuesday, October 16, 2012 at Pennock Hospital surrounded by his family and friends. Bob had served faithfully on the Hastings City Counsel for over 20 years before being elected Mayor in 2004. Funeral services for Mayor Bob May will be held at the First Presbyterian Church of Hastings at 11 a.m. on Monday, October 22, 2012, with Pastor Jeff Garrison officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Barry County Relay for Life, or the family of Bob May for final medical expenses. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Daniels Funeral Home in Nashville. Please visit our website at www.danielsfuneralhome.net for further details. MIDDLEVILLE, MI - Carlyle Borck, of Middleville, passed away October 12, 2012, at his home surrounded by his family. Carlyle was born March 11, 1928 in Mayville, the son of the late Carl and Flora (Newberry) Borck. Carlyle served in the United States Army and Merchant Marines during WWll. Carlyle is survived by his wife of 48 years, Patricia (Thompson) Borck; daughters, Theresa (Ed) Zachary of Middleville, Pam Fierros of Middleville; a son, Ronald (Leslie) Hildebrant of Rose City; sister-in-law, Joan (Dale) Robinson of Petoskey; brothers-inlaw, Mel (Deb) Thompson of Grandville, Frank Thompson of Holland, Bob Thompson of Petoskey; grandchildren, Dawn, Tyler, Michael, Jason, Kayla and Malea; seven great grandchildren and several loving nieces, nephews and relatives. Carlyle was preceded in death by a brother, three sisters, a granddaughter, Andrea and a great grandson, Ayden. A memorial service will be conducted Saturday, October 20, 2012 at 1 p.m. at Dorr Epiphany Lutheran Church, 4218 Park Lane, Dorr, with Pastor Jonathon Krenz officiating. Interment will take place in Ft. Custer National Cemetery at a later date. Memorial contributions to Faith Hospice will be appreciated. Please visit www.beelergoresfuneral.com to view Carlyle's online guest book and to leave a condolence message for his family. Hastings Mutual announces partnership with National Farmers Union HASTINGS, MI - Raymond Arthur Mead, age 79, of Hastings passed away, Friday, October 12, 2012. He was born October 30, 1932 in Hastings, the son of Clement (Ted) Mead and Ida (Shellenbarger) Mead. Ray attended Striker School in the early years, then Freeport school until eighth grade, continuing on to Hastings High School where he graduated in 1951. He honorably served in the Korean War from April 1952 until February 1954. Ray worked at the E.W. Bliss for 33 years, retiring in 1987. He was diagnosed with diabetes at the early age of 25. His disability did not hinder him in the least from doing all the things that he loved. Ray was an avid fisherman, once owning a bait and tackle shop, with his son. He built three houses, a car lot, was a co-owner of the Cone Zone ice cream store, and had several rental houses as well. Ray was a member of the Hastings Moose Lodge, since 1971 and the American Legion since 1978. He served on the Hastings Township board for 13 years, serving five of those years as treasurer. Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Ted and Ida Mead and brother, Paul Mead. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Martha Mead and his children, Tina (Steve) Bradford, Gordon (Teri) Mead, Brenda (Brett) Geurkink; grandchildren, Christy (Bradford) Franklin, Jeff Bradford, Carolyn Bradford Emily (Mead) Labbe and Jacob Mead; great-grandchildren, Cadence Bradford and Evan Labbe. Memorial contributions may be made to Woodgrove Brethren Christian Parish, Good Samaritan Fund, 4887 Coats Grove Rd., Hastings, MI 49058. A memorial service with a visitation prior to service time, will be held Saturday, October 20, 2012 at the Woodgrove Brethren Christian Parish. Visitation will be from 10:30 a.m. until noon and the memorial service will begin at noon. Rev. Randall Bertrand, officiating. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, please visit out website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message to the family. Don’t let identity thieves trick you by Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Identity theft is a real threat. Identity thieves victimize millions of people each year. The days before Halloween bring National Protect Your Identity Week, from Oct. 20 to 27. Be sure to safeguard your personal information, such as your Social Security number and mother’s maiden name. Identity thieves hunger for such information the way trick-ortreaters hunger for candy. You can help protect yourself by not carrying your Social Security card with you and not providing your personal information to unknown sources over the Internet or by email. Be sure to shred any documents, bills or paperwork before you throw them away. Most important, never reply to an email claiming to be from Social Security that asks you for your Social Security number or other personal information. If you think you’ve been the victim of an identity thief, call the Federal Trade Commission, 877-IDTHEFT (877-4384338); or go to www.idtheft.gov and click on the link for “Report Identity Theft.” Learn more about identity theft at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10064.html. If you want to get involved with Protect Your Identity Week, visit www.protectyouridnow.org. Don’t fall victim to an identity thief. Safeguard your identity and take precautions to keep the “bad guys” at bay — during Protect Your Identity Week, Halloween and throughout the year. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. Social Security announces 1.7 percent benefit increase for 2013 Monthly Social Security and Supplemental Security Income benefits for nearly 62 million Americans will increase 1.7 percent in 2013, the Social Security Administration announced Tuesday. The 1.7 percent cost-of-living adjustment will begin with benefits that more than 56 million Social Security beneficiaries receive in January 2013. Increased payments to more than 8 million SSI beneficiaries will begin Dec. 31. Some other changes that take effect in January of each year are based on the increase in average wages. Based on that increase, the maximum amount of earnings subject to the Social Security tax (taxable maximum) will increase to $113,700 from $110,100. Of the estimated 163 million workers who will pay Social Security taxes in 2013, nearly 10 million will pay higher taxes as a result of the increase in the taxable maximum. Information about Medicare changes for 2013, when announced, will be available at www.Medicare.gov. For some beneficiaries, their Social Security increase may be partially or completely offset by increases in Medicare premiums. The Social Security Act provides for how the COLA is calculated. To read more, please visit www.socialsecurity.gov/cola. �Social News The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 18, 2012 — Page 7 Green Gables Haven and Hastings library report at Rutland meeting by David DeDecker Staff Writer Rob Bates, representing Hastings Public Library, gave a report to the Rutland Charter Township Board of Trustees during its monthly meeting Oct. 10. Bates said 25,700 items were checked out from the library through July, with 644,179 items checked out over five years. Computer use at the library is 7,330 hours so far in 2012. Bates told the board that 9,748 people entered the library in September with 6,678 items checked out. Janie Bergeron, executive director of Green Gables Haven, spoke about the shelter. She said the Mary Kay Foundation awarded Green Gables a $20,000 grant. Bergeron said GGH has served 96 people over the course of 2012. She said the shelter provides many services to female victims of domestic violence and their children. Services including legal referrals, room and board, health care, school referrals, and various types of counseling. Most people stay an average of 45 to 60 days. Sometimes, according to Bergeron, there will be someone who will stay for several months. “We work very closely with United Way, [the Michigan Department of Human Services] and Families First,” said Bergeron. A wish list of items the shelter needs is posted on the website www.greengableshaven.org. Township Treasurer Sandy Greenfield and Trustee Dorothy Flint were voted to the election commission for the Nov. 6 election In new business, the board unanimously approved a resolution on the redetermination of special assessment for weed control on Algonquin Lake. The resolution stated no change to assessment or costs for weed control from last year. Weed control for Algonquin Lake costs approximately $60,000 per year. Mike Hallifax of Hallifax Services was present at the meeting to hear unanimous approval of the sexton, grounds and janitorial contracts. The costs are the same as last year. Janitorial is $45 a week, which includes cleaning of floors and restrooms, dusting, emptying trash, cleaning of the entrance door glass and miscellaneous cleaning. Sexton and grounds duties are for maintenance of the Rutland Township Cemetery at $1,000 per month. Hallifax Services will continue to serve Rutland Township for three more years. The next regularly scheduled township meeting will be Nov. 14. BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY Robert Falconer to turn 90 You are invited to an open house in honor of the 90th birthday of Robert Falconer on Saturday, October 20th from 2 to 4 p.m. at the home of Bob and Pat Doezema, 389 N. Airport Rd.,Hastings, MI 49058. Stop in to visit with Dad and enjoy food and desserts. If you are unable to join us and want to send a card you can send it to: Robert Falconer, 421 N. Airport Rd., Hastings, MI 49058. If you have any questions call Pat at 269838-1469. Don MacKenzie celebrates 95th birthday Don MacKenzie will celebrate his 95th birthday on October 19th. He has five children: Doug (Judy) MacKenzie and Keith (Kay) MacKenzie both of Vermontville, Doug (Judy) MacKenzie MacKenzie of Woodland, Den (Bonnie) MacKenzie of Hastings and Denise (Joe) Morgan of Naples, Florida. Don retired after many years at Hastings Manufacturing Company in Hastings. Cards may be sent to Don c/o Oakview Adult Foster Care, 2895 E. M-79 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058. by Gerald Stein Hastings High School focusing on college applications next week NORTH N: A K 9 2 M: 4 3 L: K Q 10 9 7 3 K: 6 WEST N: 10 4 3 M: A K Q 10 9 8 L: 8 5 K: 5 4 EAST N: J 6 5 M: 7 6 2 L: 2 K: A Q 9 8 3 2 SOUTH: N: Q 8 7 M: J 5 L: A J 6 4 K: K J 10 7 Dealer: West Vulnerable: None Lead: AN North East South Pass Pass 3M Pass West 2M Pass seniors to participate. Local college admission representatives and volunteers from Navigate, Barry County’s Local College Access Network, will be on hand to help students with applications. “We are thrilled to be bringing this event to Hastings High School,” said Tava, Navigate college advisor. “The College Application Week event ensures that every Hastings senior has had the experience of completing an application for a postsecondary program. This makes a piece of the college planning puzzle less daunting, especially for first-generation college students.” For more information about this event, email Longstreet, clongstreet@hassk12.org, or Tava, coordinator@KnowHow2Navigate.org. Gilbert to lead Michigan Bar Association section Marriage Licenses Hastings attorney David Gilbert has been elected chairperson of the Michigan Bar Association’s Criminal Law Section. With 2,000 members, the criminal law section provides education, information and analysis about crime, corrections and court-rule changes. “I am excited about the opportunity to play a leadership role in advancing the primary purposes of the section, which include promoting justice and the administration of justice, and protecting the public and the rights of each individual,” said Gilbert. “It is an honor to be selected for this position by my peers.” Members of the criminal law section of the Michigan Bar Association include prosecutors, criminal defense attorneys, and judges who handle criminal cases. Gilbert has practiced law for more than 15 years from offices in Calhoun and Barry counties. He also is the Republican candidate for Calhoun County prosecutor in the Nov. 6 general election. GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Christopher Wayne Pennington, Freeport and Anastasia Ryan Smith, Freeport. Mitchell David Brisboe, Hastings and Traci Lynn Eggleston, Hastings. Danny James Thompson, Middleville and Sarah Jean Wolf, Middleville. Jordan Leroy Bursley, Hastings and Chelsea Nicole Standler, Hastings. Newborn Babies Eastyn Aron Frank, born at Pennock Hospital on Oct. 2, 2012 at 7:57 a.m. to Tia and Casey Milligan of Sunfield. Weighing 8 lbs. 7 ozs. and 21 inches long. ***** Landon Robert, born at Pennock Hospital on Oct. 3, 2012 at 5:58 p.m. to Michael and Nichole Burkey of Hastings. Weighing 8 lbs. 1 oz. and 19 inches long. ***** Anna Farai, born at Pennock Hospital on Oct. 5, 2012 at 2:54 a.m. to Nichole Goto of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 1 oz. and 20 inches long. ***** Henry Melvin, born at Pennock Hospital on Oct. 5, 2012 at 12:02 p.m. to Todd and Christine Payne of Delton. Weighing 9 lbs. 5 ozs. and 21 inches long. ***** Myla Jean, born at Pennock Hospital on Oct. 8, 2012 at 8:09 a.m. to Andrew and Callie Courtright of Hastings. Weighing 8 lbs. 5 ozs. and 19.5 inches long. ***** Brynnlee Elle, born at Pennock Hospital on Oct. 8, 2012 at 1:38 a.m. to Kristen Mead and Zach Blackburn of Middleville. Weighing 7 lbs. 12 ozs. and 20 inches long. Auditions, Auditions, Auditions! The Thornapple Players Christmas Show 06793976 Today’s column is another look at aggressive bidding versus defending. In today’s hand, West is the opener, and she has a strong heart suit and nothing more. Here is a perfect time, with a strong heart suit, a total point range between five and eleven points, and little to lose to throw in a weak two-bid. West accordingly bid 2M, promising her partner East six good hearts and little more. The objective in this type of bidding is to disturb the opponents, and, as we have seen in the past, this happened again on this hand. North, on this hand, dropped the ball in the bidding. With shortness in hearts, and two suits that look respectable, hearts and diamonds, North should have made a bid. Did the two-heart bid of West confuse or interfere with his thinking? It appears that it did as North meekly passed the bid when there is a bid ready and open for him to tell his partner South about his hand. What was the bid? A take-out double would have given North an opportunity to tell his partner South to bid something when the bidding gets around to him. A take-out double promises good points and support for the three unbid suits. While North’s clubs are nothing, it is the other two suits that might be the fit for the North-South team. North did nothing but pass. When that happens, all North can expect is nothing. Again, as we have seen in past columns, East is in tune with her partner West. Knowing the weak two-bid in hearts promises six hearts from her partner West and hearing nothing from North, East looks at her three hearts as additional support for their partnership. Listening to the bidding, East knows that East/West have a golden fit in hearts with nine hearts. West aggressively bids 3M. At this point, South, as the last bidder, has no place to go. Bidding Diamonds and Clubs at the four level doesn’t sound very appealing, especially when North has taken such a lackluster stance with no bid. South reluctantly passes, and the hand is passed all around. The contract is 3M in the West. In the play of the hand, and afterwards during the post mortem discussion, it is obvious that North/South have three spade tricks on the opening lead of the AN, the KN, and the lead to the QN in the South. The first three tricks have gone to the North/South team, and too late, they realize that they had a good fit in spades. What else did they have as well? North/South will take one more trick in Diamonds, the AL, and the KK on the club finesse will result in five tricks for the North/South team, and a poorly deserved 50 point score for their efforts. Down one trick, East/West will take eight tricks with hearts as trump and just go set by one trick. It is a wonderful sacrifice for East/West to give up only 50 points instead of letting North/South find their fit in spades. What did North/South give up to gain a paltry 50 points on their side of the ledger? It should be obvious that they missed a game in spades, losing only two hearts and the AK, making four spades and a superior score of 420. Do you think North felt a bit embarrassed at his lack of bidding when someone opened a weak-two bid? Listen to the bidding seems to be the message, loud and clear. West had informed the entire table of her hand; it was obvious that she had what she said she had as the East/West partnership play weak twos in their convention card partnership agreement. North needed to step up and bid. Aggressive bidding by the East/West partnership must be counteracted by aggressive bidding by the North/South team as well. Otherwise, East/West will be smiling all day that they stole another bid from their opponents. Bridge Question for this week: What is the Law of Total Tricks as applied in today’s column? Answer next week. ***** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) Hastings High School is participating in Michigan’s second annual College Application Week Oct. 29 through Nov. 2, along with more than 80 other Michigan high schools. The sessions in Hastings will be Tuesday, Oct. 30, and Thursday, Nov. 1. The goal of the program is to give every graduating senior the opportunity to apply to college. During this event, students may apply to any of Michigan’s community colleges, independent colleges and universities and state universities in which they are interested. Hastings High School will work with each senior to complete and submit at least one college application. Cathy Longstreet and Pam Tava, College Application Week event site coordinators for Hastings High School, expect more than 100 Hayward-Pelak Tony and Katie Hayward of Wayland and Frank and Peggy Pelak of Marne are happy to announce the upcoming marriage of their children, Troy Thomas Hayward and Shayne Nichole Pelak. Troy is a 2006 graduate of Thornapple Kellogg High School and is employed at Bradford White Corporation in Middleville. Shayne is a 2007 graduate of West Catholic High School as well as the Everest Institute and is employed in the medical field. Their wedding is planned for November 10, 2012. “Miracle on 34th Street” Monday, October 22 at 7:30PM in Leason Sharpe Hall (Barry Community Enrichment Center) located at 231 South Broadway in Hastings • 20 adult parts Performance dates are: Nov. 29, 30, Dec. 1, 2 www.thornappleplayers.com Ray L. Girrbach Owner/Director 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 • 269-945-3252 Serving Hastings, Barry County and Surrounding Communities for 45 years •Traditional and Cremation Services •Pre-Planning Services Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. •Large Parking Lot - Handicap Accessible •Serving All Faiths •Pre-arrangement Transfers Accepted Call 945-9554 for more information. Family Owned and Operated www.girrbachfuneralhome.net �Page 8 — Thursday, October 18, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of by Elaine Garlock The home tour sponsored by the Woodland Women’s study Club is Saturday with an interesting array of homes to tour. It is always fascinating to see what is the latest in furnishings or to see how people have used old items in new ways. The Lansing District superintendent of United Methodist Churches is holding the annual charge conference for four local churches at Central United Methodist Church Sunday afternoon. Each church committee of pastor and staff relations will meet separately with District Superintendent Robert Huntley. Local pastors include Rev. Karen Sorden at Central, Clare Huyck at Sunfield and Gary Simmons at Woodland. Ten members of the women’s fellowship of First Congregational Church toured the International Aid Mission at Spring Lake Oct. 10. After an impressive tour, they were treated to lunch. President Roxie Hazel led the group. A Tecumseh couple were presenters at the Saturday meeting of the Ionia County Genealogical Society, speaking on use of computers to retrieve census data and other vital information. The Lake Odessa Area Historical Society met Thursday with Thelma Curtis presiding in the absence of the president. A laywoman of Central United Methodist Church related several stories of the formation and development of the church from its start at the predecessor of Bonanza, its move to the new town of Lake Odessa in 1988, the 1904 move to downtown Lake Odessa with the name addition of Central, since it was centrally located in the business district. The first half of her presentation was of the worshiping body and the second half was on the changes of the building with its addition of Fellowship Hall in 1961, changes to make the basement level barrier-free in 1991, the elevator project in 1994 that resulted in two new rooms replacing stairways, four new flights of stairs in the former breezeway space. A new kitchen came in 2001. The kitchen and four-level elevator projects were done without increasing the footprint of the church. The November meeting of the LOAHS will be the Memory Tree annual program followed by Christmas ‘Round the Town the Friday and Saturday following Thanksgiving Day. Following the landscape project at the historic depot, workers rescued components of the hitching rails that were alongside Fourth Avenue at Tupper Lake Street for decades and almost lost to posterity. Someone on the streetscape project a few years ago salvaged the rails, and they have been stored beneath the depot deck. Now the best pieces have been assembled and mounted at the west end of the depot. If in need of a place to safely tie your steed while in town, feel free to use the hitching rail at the depot. Public service people were busy on Monday evening with an ambulance call to an apartment house on Fourth Avenue at Fourth Street. While three ambulances were occupied there, two fire trucks were dispatched to Twin City Foods. On Saturday at dusk, there was a collision on Cemetery Road just off M50. A wrecker was called for that incident. Call 269-945-9554 to place your Hastings Banner classified ad! EDWARD JONES Explore new opportunities during open enrollment If you work for a medium-size or large organization, you may well be entering that time of year known as Open Enrollment. While it may not be as dramatic as the “other” election that’s arriving in a few weeks, Open Enrollment will provide you with some choices that can have a big impact on your life. Depending on how your organization administers its benefits program, you may be able to make changes to several important areas during open enrollment. Here are three of them: • Life insurance — If your employer offers free or inexpensive life insurance, you should almost certainly accept it. But if your situation has changed since you first received life insurance as an employee benefit — that is, if you’ve gotten married or had children or bought a house — you may well need to supplement your employer’s policy with outside insurance. Also, make sure the beneficiary designations on your employer’s policy are still correct. • Disability insurance — Almost everyone recognizes the need for life insurance. But that’s not necessarily the case with disability insurance — which is unfortunate, because a worker’s chance of becoming disabled is 2 to 3.5 times greater than dying, according to A.M. Best, the credit-rating company. If your employer offers disability coverage, you should probably take it — but, as is the case with life insurance, you may need to supplement your employer-sponsored plan with a policy of your own. To determine how much protection you need, add up your monthly living expenses and then compare the total to your current disability insurance coverage. You may well discover a “gap” that should be filled. • 401(k) plan — If you can make changes to your 401(k) or other employer-sponsored plan (such as a 403(b) plan for nonprofits or a 457(b) for state and local governments), you’ll want to consider two key areas: your contribution amount and your investment mix. As a general rule, it’s a good idea to contribute as much as you can afford to your retirement plan because your money can grow on a tax-deferred basis. So, if you can afford it, or if you’re anticipating a salary increase for next year, consider bumping up your retirement plan contribution. As for your retirement plan’s investment portfolio, take a close look at it. Does it still reflect your risk tolerance and time horizon? These two factors will change over the years, so you’ll want to make sure your investment mix keeps pace. Also, is your account properly diversified, or have you tended to concentrate your dollars in just one or two types of investments? While diversification cannot guarantee a profit or protect against a loss, it can help you reduce the impact of volatility on your holdings. You should have several weeks in which to study your benefit plan options, so take the time you need to make the right choices. You may also want to consult with a professional financial advisor — someone who can help you determine your life insurance and disability protection needs as well as review your retirement plan’s investment mix to ensure it’s still appropriate. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 33.26 -.26 AT&T 35.40 -1.74 BP PLC 42.30 +.28 CMS Energy Corp 23.84 -.02 Coca-Cola Co 37.90 -.66 Eaton 46.00 -.29 Family Dollar Stores 68.52 +.57 Fifth Third Bancorp 15.00 -.86 Flowserve CP 129.97 +1.19 Ford Motor Co. 10.30 +.20 General Mills 39.70 +.19 General Motors 24.79 +.42 Intel Corp. 22.35 +.45 Kellogg Co. 52.07 +.49 McDonald’s Corp 94.09 +1.98 Pfizer Inc. 25.80 +.49 Ralcorp 74.23 +.68 Sears Holding 62.17 +3.27 Spartan Motors 5.11 -.06 Spartan Stores 15.09 +.04 Stryker 53.46 +.73 TCF Financial 11.06 -.60 Walmart Stores 76.91 +2.77 Gold $1747.80 -$16.30 Silver $32.98 -.91 Dow Jones Average 13,551 -78 Volume on NYSE 600M +28M 269-967-8241 06790990 Licensed / Insured / Local Sometimes Mother Nature doubles down on death Call Scott 517-290-5556 • 877-448-1548 77571253 FREE Consultation & Estimates! ALSO EGRESS WINDOWS / MOLD REMEDIATION SWISS STEAK & CHICKEN DINNER Sponsored by… Habitat for Humanity of Barry County Friday, October 19th 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. Hastings First United Methodist Church 77571811 Corner of Green & Church Street – Free Will Offering – 77571671 TWO BROTHERS AND A TENT For All Your Tent Rental Needs Tables and chairs available. Garage Sale/Estate Sale Call: Dan McKinney 269-838-7057 or Tom McKinney 269-838-3842 on behalf of the family of Nancy (Phenix) Sprague Thursday, October 18th from 10am-7pm Friday October 19th from 10am-7pm Saturday October 20th from 10am-7pm 5225 E. Center Rd. in Hastings 77566915 ® Many valuable items, including: Antiques Household goods Women’s clothing Shop tools Farm equipment and much more... The 07611874 Benefit Dinner Chad Faunce for who is currently undergoing treatment for liver cancer. Freeport Community Center Sunday October 21st, 11am-2pm 77564841 DONATIONS ACCEPTED Dinner includes: beef stew, rolls & homemade desserts. 77571822 by Dr. E. Kirsten Peters Not too long ago, I rewrote my will, bringing it up to date. There’s nothing like tackling a project like that to remind me of my mortality. But imagine not just your own individual death, but the finality of the death of all members of your species — that’s the idea behind what geologists and paleontologists investigate when they muse on extinctions and what can cause them. You’ve likely heard of the mass extinction that removed the non-avian (non-bird) dinosaurs from the face of the Earth some 65 million years ago. There have been other periods, too, of enormous die-offs in Earth history. And even apart from times of mass extinction, some species are always going belly-up. In short, most species that have ever lived are now extinct. As I like to say, extinction isn’t rare, but as common as dirt. The largest extinction the planet has seen wasn’t the one that wiped out the dinosaurs. It came many millions of years before, between what geologists call the Paleozoic and Mesozoic eras. But the extinction that marked the end of the dinosaurs is famous because the public is understandably interested in everything connected to the dinosaurs’ reign on the planet. If we look at the fossils that are just a bit older than the time of the dinosaurs’ extinction and compare them to the fossils that are just a bit younger, we can see just how different life on Earth became. Organisms in the oceans were particularly hard hit during the great transition, as were plants on land. Interestingly, mammals were comparatively unaffected (go team!). The first part of an important theory for what happened when the dinosaurs disappeared was put forward in 1980 by a team of researchers from the University of California, Berkeley. The idea is one you may be familiar with, namely that a large meteorite slammed into the Earth. Later research work put the location of the impact in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico — the place became known to as the “Crater of Doom.” The meteorite that hit the Yucatan, as the theory goes, carried with it an unusual metal, one that can be found in a narrow layer of sediment that occurs at or near the “boundary” between the dinosaurs’ era and our own. Soot and ash in Earth’s atmosphere, according to the theory, was so strongly increased by the impact event that not much sunlight reached the surface of the planet. Plants died as a result. After them, of course, many animals dependent on the plants gave up the ghost, as well. But not everyone has been satisfied with the meteorite theory of extinction. There has always been some evidence of massive ecological upheavals before the special layer that contains the unusual metal linked to a meteorite impact. Enter Gerta Keller, a professor at Princeton who has gone her own way on the matter of what led to the great die-off. Keller agrees with others in the field that there was a giant impact in the Yucatan. But she argues that mass extinction events occurred before that time. The cause? Massive volcanic eruptions in what’s now India. India is home to major lava flows known as the Deccan traps. They are just a bit older than the Yucatan impact event. Well, that’s just in geologic time — likely 150,000 to 300,000 years. Keller has taken samples at 150 different places around the globe from the layers just around the time of the mass extinction. She says her observations indicate the mass extinction was well underway before the impact of the meteorite. And, in addition, she says there were really multiple impacts, not just one. A lot is yet to be unraveled about mass extinctions. Some hypotheses that have been put forward don’t yield testable ideas — and so we can’t prove or disprove them. In short, it can be tough to know what to make of some of the data and observations we have. But extinctions fascinate us, which is why geologists and paleontologists have investigated them for generations. What causes the catastrophic changes in species, however, is often hard to pin down. As some have said, only a time-travel machine would let us observe what really caused the extinctions of species. But nothing will stop the good efforts of many scientists to try to understand mass extinctions better. Dr. E. Kirsten Peters, a native of the rural Northwest, was trained as a geologist at Princeton and Harvard universities. Follow her online at rockdoc.wsu.edu. This column is a service of the College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences at Washington State University. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 18, 2012 — Page 9 Memories of rigs and crews This Memories of the Past column by the late Susan Hinckley was published in the Oct. 24, 1979, issue of the Maple Valley News. maw of the separator, Brumm related. “This crew traveled with the machine, sleeping at night in the barn and getting their meals daily at the various farm tables where Early harvest time in Castleton and sur- they threshed,” reminisced Brumm. “Many a rounding townships was a season of arduous farmer’s wife had built up a reputation over labor for local farmers. But the task was often the years as a good place to be at meal time. enlightened with humor that has left a bounti- Conversely, there were a few places where the ful gleaning of happy memories behind. crew worked hard to get away from before Howard E. Brumm, a Nashville native now dinner time.” of Charlevoix, remembered harvests in the During the threshing operation, farmers early 1920s when he worked as a member of supplied several extra hands to tote the filled a threshing machine crew operation in the grain bags to their storage place. Brumm, in Castleton Township area. his position as bagger man on the crew, had “As many old-timers recall, these threshing an opportunity to witness an amusing incident outfits moved from farm to farm as soon as which helped add levity to lighten the load of the cut and shocked grain was dry enough to work for these men. be threshed,” explained Brumm, who worked “One day when the rig was at the George on a rig owned by Charles Mead. Austin farm, just north of Nashville, a son-inA primary member of a threshing crew was law of the Austins, Claude Greenfield, came the engineer who ran the steam engine, source out to help carry grain from the rig to the of power for the grain separator. The engineer granary,” Brumm recounted. “Claude was a was assisted by a tank wagon man who, with town boy and, as such, was the butt of a gooda team of horses, hauled water to keep the natured prank pulled off by the other grain steam engine running. carriers who were country boys. These coun“It often proved to be a thirsty beast, espe- try boys managed to put a 50-pound rock into cially in a dry summer when many roadside the first bag of grain that Claude was to tote. creeks and small ponds would dry up,” They put a bushel of wheat into the bag, and remembered Brumm. “Many times it was with the rock, it nearly doubled the weight of necessary to shut down the engine when its the load. Claude had watched the others grab water supply ran out before the tank wagon a bag and nonchalantly swing it over a shoulreturned with a fresh supply.” der and walk away. So, when his turn came, The balance of the threshing crew included he did the same. Or rather, he started to but the separator man, who kept his machine in couldn’t get the bag off the ground.” good working order; a bagger, who caught the “Meantime, another bag was ready and one freshly threshed grain in bags; and an opera- of the country boys again swung it over his tor of the blower, which blew the freshly shoulder with seeming little effort. Again threshed straw into a stack. Built into a shape- Claude resolutely grabbed his bag and tried to ly pile, the straw was preserved by the farmer shoulder it, but with no better success than his for bedding his livestock. first effort.” In addition to these five primary positions, “By this time, Claude began to sense the the crew included several “bundle pitchers” prank and, midst the merriment of the onlookwho tossed bundles of grain into the hungry ers, dug into the bag of grain to discover the rock.” Brumm also recalled a late fall threshing episode which was not viewed by so many onlookers, but left a lasting impresThe Barry County Road Commission is accepting NOTICE sealed bids for the purchase of a pre-owned rubber tired 15 ton roller. Full specifications can be obtained from the BCRC. Bids will be opened at 10 AM on November 1, 2012 at the offices of the BCRC. The BCRC reserves the right to reject any and all bids or to purchase comparable equipment at a lower price. Please clearly indicate on the outside of the envelope “Sealed bid enclosed - Rubber Tired Roller”. Please direct all questions Rob Richardson, Equipment Superintendent. 77571851 Barry County Road Commission 1725 W. M43 Hwy. P.O. Box 158 Hastings, MI 49058 269-945-3449 Threshing rigs and crews moved from farm to farm in Castleton and surrounding townships in the 1920s, leaving a gleaning of happy memories behind. At first, the grain separator (right) was powered by a steam engine; later, a gasoline-fueled tractor (above left) was used. The separator blew threshed straw into a stack behind the barn. Freshly bagged grain (extreme right) is loaded, ready for hauling to granary. In this photo, taken in the Saddlebag Lake area near Woodland, is the grandfather (second from left in white hat) and father (sixth from left, behind belt) of this column’s author, the late Susan (Murphy) Hinckley. Good-natured humor (and a 50-pound rock) occasionally lightened the threshers’ work load, recalled Howard E. Brumm, a Nashville native now of Charlevoix. sion. “... The summer threshing season involving wheat, oats and other grains would finish rather early in the fall,” explained Brumm. “Then came the bean huller and the clover seed huller; these sometimes ran well into the fall and much colder weather.” Brumm remembered a threshing incident that happened at such a time, when it was almost too cold to sleep in the barn at night. Crews on the late fall jobs were much smaller and often only the engineer stayed overnight. He had to remain close to the steam engine to keep it fired, so the water in the boiler and connected pipes wouldn’t freeze. Since this required both a late night firing of the boiler and another early in the morning, the man tending the engine had to stay with the rig overnight. “This particular event happened at the Glen Wotring farm, five or six miles north of Nashville,” recounted Brumm. “An overnight stop was involved and Mrs. Wotring, feeling compassionate over thinking of anyone having to sleep in the barn, told her husband that since there was only one man staying overnight he should invite the fellow to sleep in the house.” The engineer in this case was Frank Bailey who, according to Brumm, worked with the rigs year-round, year after year and was about all he knew. “Frank accepted the invitation to sleep in the house rather reluctantly, as he was dirty and there wasn’t any easy way to clean up,” recalled Brumm. “He was shown to an upstairs bedroom which he found so clean it made him uneasy. Warily preparing for bed, he first pulled off his felts and boots — accepted footwear for men in cold weather. As he pulled off his felts he found they had a lot of chaff in them.” Looking around for a place to empty them, HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, Oct. 18 — Pizza and Pages discusses M.T. Anderson’s The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing — The Pox Party, 3:45 to 5 p.m.; Movie Memories celebrates things that go bump in the night with “I Married a Witch,” starring Frederic Marsh, 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 19 — preschool story time enjoys stories about who’s in the zoo, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; teen lock-in, 6 to 10 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 23 — toddler story time enjoys stories about Halloween, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30; open chess club , 6 to 8 p.m. Call the library for more information about any of the above, 269-945-4263. Frank found a floor register and, thinking it was connected to the basement, he shook his footgear into the register. “Unfortunately, instead of leading to the basement, the floor register was just that, and happened to be located directly above Mrs. Wotring’s china closet, where she had her choicest pieces of china and crystal,” explained Brumm. “You can imagine what it must have looked like after this unseemly shower of dust and chaff from above.” The catastrophe (Brumm figures it was about that) wasn’t discovered until early the next morning. “When Mrs. Wotring viewed the disaster, she was ready to cry,” recalled Brumm. “But soon another feeling overcame her first reaction. By the time Frank appeared from the upper room, she served him his breakfast along with rather strong and vehement upbraiding for his uncouth manners.” “The poor fellow retreated to the safety of his steam engine, glad to escape the sharp tongue of his hostess and at the same time vowed to sleep in the barn regardless of weather, where he was more at ease with himself,” concluded Howard Brumm. “Such was life on the farm in the 1920s.” LEGAL NOTICE SYNOPSIS HOPE TOWNSHIP REGULAR BOARD MEETING OCTOBER 8, 2012 5 board members present. 6 guests. Regular meeting opened at 7 p.m. Approved: Agenda Previous Minutes Standing Reports Bills Insurance Bid by Burnham & Flower Risk Reduction Grant Program Approval to sign off on BPH Documents Minutes to be published on website Snowplow contract Annual Audit Report by Walker Fluke & Sheldon Adjourned 8:12 p.m. Submitted by: Deborah Jackson, Clerk Attested to by 77571805 Patricia Albert, Supervisor NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED BUDGET PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that on October 23, 2012 the Barry County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on the 2013 county budget during the regular Board of Commissioners meeting at 9:00 a.m. in the Commission Chambers of the County Courthouse at 220 W. State St., Hastings, MI 49058. The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget will be a subject of this hearing. A copy of the proposed 2013 budget is available for public inspection during normal business hours at the County Administrator’s Office, 3rd floor, Courthouse, 220 W. State St., Hastings, MI 49058. Pamela A. Jarvis, Clerk Barry County Board of Commissioners 77571544 TOWNSHIP OF PRAIRIEVILLE BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE City of Hastings TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF PRAIRIEVILLE, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: Request for Proposal Strategic Planner/Consultant Historic Charlton Park PUBLIC NOTICE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the following is a summary of Ordinance No. 144, which was adopted by the Prairieville Township Board at a regular meeting held on October 10, 2012. The Historic Charlton Park Board is seeking a consultant/planner to assist with the facilitating, organizing, and development of a written long-range Strategic Plan for Historic Charlton Park Village, Museum and Recreation Area. Proposals must be received by 4 p.m. November 16, 2012. The Executive Director along with the Historic Charlton Park Board Executive Committee will review all proposals and select the winning proposal. No late proposals will be accepted. Additional information may be obtained by visiting our website, www.charltonpark.org or by contacting the park office at (269) 945-3775. The City of Hastings Department of Public Services will again be providing the citizens of the City of Hastings with a fall leaf pickup, scheduled to begin Monday, November 5, 2012. City crews will begin picking up leaves in the Second Ward and Third Ward south of State Street. City Crews will then finish Second Ward and Third Ward north of State Street and move into First Ward north of the Thornapple River. Crews will finish in Fourth Ward from Broadway to the west City limits. The Historic Charlton Park Board reserves the right to accept or reject any and all proposals; for reasons of uniformity, to award the contract to any entity or person(s) other than the low bid. No oral proposals will be accepted. For any questions or inquiries regarding this RFP, please see contact information below. Please send all proposals to: Historic Charlton Park Attn: Dan Patton, Director 2545 S. Charlton Park Road Hastings, MI 49058 Village, Museum & Recreation Area 2545 S. Charlton Park Rd., Hastings, MI 49058-8102 Ph: 269-945-3775 Fax: 269-945-0390 www.charltonpark.org 77571829 FALL LEAF PICKUP SECTION I. AMENDMENT TO SECTIONS 6.6.B.3 AND 6.6-1.B.1. This Section amends Sections 6.6.B.3 and 6.6-1.B.1 of the Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance so as to allow in the “A” Agricultural District and the “AP” Agricultural Preservation District subject to special land use approval, more than one dwelling unit to be used as living quarters on a farm for a member or members of the owner’s immediate family or for unrelated families having permanent employment on the farm. SECTION II. SEVERABILITY. The provisions of this Ordinance are severable. Residents should place their leaves to be picked up either very near the curb if a parking lane is present, or immediately behind the curb on the curb lawn. We ask that residents not place leaves in any traveled lane, or adjacent to intersections where it might present a vision obstruction. SECTION III. EFFECTIVE DATE AND REPEAL OF CONFLICTING ORDINANCES. This Ordinance shall take effect eight days following publication after adoption. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with this Ordinance are repealed. Residents should have their leaves raked out prior to the start of the leaf pickup to allow us to complete the project in an efficient and timely manner. Your cooperation in this regard will be greatly appreciated. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the full text of this Ordinance has been posted in the Office of the Prairieville Township Clerk at the address set forth below and that a copy of the Ordinance may be purchased or inspected at the office of the Prairieville Township Clerk during regular business hours of regular working days following the date of this publication. There will be an announcement on WBCH radio each weekday morning informing citizens of the location of the City work crews, including a tentative area that will be covered that day and where the work crews will be headed the next day. Tim Girrbach 77571807 Director of Public Services PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP Ted DeVries, Clerk 10115 S. Norris Road Delton, Michigan 49046 (269) 623-2664 77571797 �Page 10 — Thursday, October 18, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES Notice of Borrowers’ Rights Under Michigan Foreclosure Statute Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage (“Mortgage”) made by Robert O Brown, Jr. and Rosemary A Brown (“Borrowers”), against the property located at 2249 Stanton Dr., Middleville MI 49333, given to Fifth Third Bank, an Ohio Banking Corporation, as successor by merger to Fifth Third Bank, a Michigan Banking Corporation, fka Fifth Third Bank (Western Michigan), having its principal offices at Madisonville Office Building, 5001 Kingsley Dr., MD # 1MOBBW, Cincinnati, OH 45263 (“Bank”). Notice is hereby given that Borrowers have the right to request a meeting on or before November 11, 2012, with Bank’s designated agent to attempt to work out a loan modification to avoid foreclosure. The name and phone number of Bank’s designated agent is Joseph F. Fazi at 248-377-0700. Borrowers may also contact a housing counselor who may accompany Borrowers to any meeting with Bank’s designated agent. A list of housing counselors approved by the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) can be found at http://www.mshda.info/counseling_search/ or by calling (517) 373-8370. If Borrowers request a meeting, foreclosure proceedings will not begin until 90 days after November 11, 2012. If Borrowers and Bank reach an agreement to modify the loan and Borrowers abide by the terms of the agreement, Mortgage will not be foreclosed. Borrowers have the right to contact an attorney. The telephone number for the Michigan State Bar Lawyer Referral Service is (800) 968-0738. The telephone number of the Legal Aid and Defender is (877) 964-4700. 77571801 (10-18) THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Gregory Young, a married man and Brandi Young, F/K/A Brandi Miller, his wife to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. , Mortgagee, dated October 8, 2008, and recorded October 28, 2008, in Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by GMAC Mortgage, LLC by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of $142,942.14 (one hundred fortytwo thousand nine hundred forty-two and 14/100) including interest at 3.75% (three point seven five) percent per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI at 1:00:00 PM on October 25, 2012. Said premises are located in the City of Hastings, Barry County Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, is described as follows: Situated in the City of Hastings, County of Barry and State of Michigan: Lot 57 of HASTINGS HEIGHTS, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats, Page 41 of Plats. Also the East 1/2 of vacated alley adjacent to said parcel on West side. Commonly known as: 1524 N. Jefferson Tax Parcel No.: 55-055-028-00 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, you may have certain rights. Dated: September 27, 2012 By: Foreclosing Attorneys Attorney for Plaintiff Weltman, Weinberg & Reis Co., L.P.A. 2155 Butterfield Drive Suite 200-S Troy, MI 48084 WWR# 10104638 77571232 (09-27)(10-18) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by James Bradley and Nancy Bradley, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Household Finance Corporation III, Mortgagee, dated October 28, 2004, and recorded on November 3, 2004 in instrument 1136631, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Five Thousand Six Hundred Fourteen and 30/100 Dollars ($95,614.30). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on November 15, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A Parcel of land located in the Northwest 1/4 of section 21; Town 1 North, Range 8 West, Beginning at a point which lies North 05 degrees 20 minutes West 75.00 feet from the Northwest corner of Lot 10, Arnetts Resort; thence North 85 degrees 43 minutes West 273.82 feet, thence North 05 degrees 20 minutes West 70.16 feet for the place of beginning; thence South 05 degrees 20 minutes East 70.16 feet, thence North 85 degrees 43 minutes West 30.83 feet; thence North 89 degrees 9 minutes West 30 feet; thence North 5 degrees 20 minutes West to a point which lies North 83 degrees 34 minutes West of the plat of beginning, thence South 83 degrees 34 minutes East to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: October 18, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #409653F01 77571662 (10-18)(11-08) Case No. 12-141-CH CIRCUIT COURT SALE In pursuance and by virtue of a Judgment of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on the 17th day of July A.D., 2012 in a certain cause therein pending, wherein THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-9 was the Plaintiff and Teresa Herlein and Duane T. Herlein were the Defendants. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that I shall sell at public auction to the highest bidder, at public venue, at the Barry County Courthouse (that being the place of holding the Circuit Court for said County), on the 29th day of November, A.D., 2012 at 1 pm o’clock in the forenoon, Eastern Standard Time, the following described property, viz: All certain piece or parcel of land situated in the Township of Thornapple, County of Barry and State of Michigan, described as follows: Lot 8, Near Lane Estates No. 1, as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats, Page 7, Barry County Records Tax ID: 14-140-0008-00 Commonly known as: 12942 Near Lane, Caledonia, MI 49316 This property may be redeemed during the six (6) months following the sale. Dated: October 4, 2012 Mark Sheldon Deputy Sheriff Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Ronald S. Glaser (P46986) Attorneys for Plaintiff 43252 Woodward Ave., Suite 180 Bloomfield Hills, MI 77571391 48302 (248) 335-9200 (10-04)(11-15) Case No. 12-109-CH CIRCUIT COURT SALE In pursuance and by virtue of a Judgment of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on the 23rd day of August, A.D., 2012 in a certain cause therein pending, wherein The Bank of New York Mellon fka The Bank of New York, as Trustee for the Certificateholders of CWABS, Inc., Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2004-10 was the Plaintiff and Stephen Vandermade, Tracy Vandermade, Household Finance Corporation III the Defendant(s). NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that I shall sell at public auction to the highest bidder, at public venue, at the Barry County Circuit Court (that being the place of holding the Circuit Court for said County), on the 6th day of December, A.D., 2012 at 1:00 o’clock in the afternoon, Eastern Standard Time, the following described property, viz: All certain piece or parcel of land situated in the City of Hastings, County of Barry and State of Michigan, described as follows: Lot 80 of Hastings Heights, according to the recorded Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 41. Tax I.D. 08-55-055048-00 Commonly known as: 1527 North Michigan Avenue, Hastings, MI 49058 This property may be redeemed during the six (6) months following the sale. Dated: October 11, 2012 Sheriff Dar Leaf Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Ronald S. Glaser (P46986) Attorneys for Plaintiff 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 (248) 335-9200 (10-11)(11-22) STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Trust In the Matter of John W. Rodgers and Hildah I. Rodgers Trust u/t/a dated February 14, 2000. Date of birth: December 2, 1928 – John W. Rodgers. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent John W. Rodgers, surviving Trustee, died October 1, 2012 leaving the above trust entitled “John W. Rodgers and Hildah I. Rodgers Trust” in full force and effect. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the decedent or against the Trust will be forever barred unless presented to Bruce Cook within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: October 12, 2012. Law Weathers Stephanie S. Fekkes P43549 150 W. Court Street Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 945-1921 William J. Rodgers 2501 Ragla Road Hastings, MI 49058 77571803 (269) 945-3057 SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by PHIL W. HART, AN UNMARRIED MAN, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated June 16, 2011, and recorded on June 30, 2011, in Document No. 201106300006442, and assigned by said mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-One Thousand Six Hundred Forty-Five Dollars and Forty-Seven Cents ($91,645.47), including interest at 4.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on November 8, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: THAT PORTION OF THE NORTH 1 / 2 OF THE NORTH 1 / 2 OF THE NORTHEAST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 21, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST, LYING WEST OF THE HIGHWAY, EXCEPT 2 ACRES ON THE SOUTH SIDE, BALTIMORE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 JPMC.000851 CONV (10-11)(1177571652 01) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Arthur W. Moredick and Dianne M. Weers, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to ABN AMRO Mortgage Group, Inc., Mortgagee, dated March 18, 2005, and recorded on April 15, 2005 in instrument 1144932, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-Five Thousand Seven Hundred Six and 19/100 Dollars ($165,706.19). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on November 8, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot(s) 3, Algonquin Shores Plat, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats, Page 55. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: October 11, 2012 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #411228F01 77571510 (10-11)(11-01) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Russell W. Gleason and Wendy M. Gleason, husband and wife to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systms, Inc., as nominee for Regions Bank, its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated January 15, 2004 and recorded January 28, 2004 in Instrument # 1121392 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: Household Finance Corporation III, by assignment dated March 15, 2012 and recorded March 19, 2012 in Instrument # 201203190002759 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Six Thousand Eight Hundred Ninety-Eight Dollars and Forty-One Cents ($86,898.41) including interest 7.45% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on November 15, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That part of the Northwest one-fourth of the Northeast one-fourth of section 21, Town 1 North, Range 8 West, Described as: The East 12 Rods of the Northwest one-fourth of the Northeast one-fourth of section 21, Town 1 North, Range 8 West. Commonly known as 1801 Mill Lake Rd, Battle Creek MI 49017 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 10/18/2012 Household Finance Corporation III, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our 77571792 File No: 12-67167 (10-18)(11-08) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Monte K. Sauers, a married man and Joy A. Sauers, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated October 25, 2006, and recorded on November 13, 2006 in instrument 1172609, and assigned by said Mortgagee to CitiMortgage, Inc. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fifty-Eight Thousand Nine Hundred Ninety-Two and 15/100 Dollars ($158,992.15). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on October 25, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Assyria, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The East 30 acres of the South 1/2 of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 10, Town 1 North, Range 7 West, Except beginning at the Southeast corner of said Section, thence West on the South Section line 511 feet 3 inches; thence North parallel with the East Section line 255 feet 6 inches; thence East to East Section line 511 feet 3 inches; thence South on East Section line 255 feet 6 inches to place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: September 27, 2012 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #290314F02 (09-27)(10-18) 77571185 77571583 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Daniel L. Kramer, a married man, and Patricia L. Kramer, a married woman, original mortgagor(s), to Union Federal Bank of Indianapolis, Mortgagee, dated May 8, 2003, and recorded on May 15, 2003 in instrument 1104418, and assigned by said Mortgagee to MidFirst Bank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Six Thousand Seven Hundred Nineteen and 15/100 Dollars ($96,719.15). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on November 8, 2012. Said premises are situated in Hickory Corners, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the Township of Bary, County of Barry, State of Michigan: The West 443 feet of the South 1009 feet of the East 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 35, Town 1 North, Range 9 West The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: October 11, 2012 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #403049F02 77571498 (10-11)(11-01) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTENTION PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE: Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage by Theodore Smith, a single man, original mortgagor(s), to Kellogg Community Federal Credit Union, Mortgagee, dated April 15, 2009, and recorded on April 21, 2009, at Instrument No. 20090421-0004312, in Barry County records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eighty-Seven Thousand Three Hundred Forty-Nine and 34/100 Dollars ($187,349.34), including interest at 6.0% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the lobby of the Barry County Circuit Court, 220 West State Street, Hastings, MI 49058 on Thursday, November 8, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. Said premises is situated in the Township of Johnstown, County of Barry, Michigan, and described as: Commencing at the center of Section 34, Town 1 North, Range 8 West, Johnstown Township, Barry County, Michigan; Thence South 21 rods to the center of M-37; Thence Southerly in the center of highway 16 rods to the point of beginning; Thence East 968 feet; Thence Southerly parallel to the center line of highway 732 feet; Thence West 968 feet to the center of the highway; thence Northerly along the center of highway 732 feet to the point of beginning. PPN: 09-034-017-10 More Commonly Known As: 15591 S M-37 Hwy, Battle Creek, MI 49017 The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be thirty (30) days from the date of such sale. Dated: October 1, 2012 For more information, please call: KELLOGG COMMUNITY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION Mark D. Hofstee (P66001) Bolhouse, Baar & Lefere, P.C. Grandville State Bank Building 3996 Chicago Drive SW Grandville MI 49418-1384 77571339 (616) 531-7711 THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. MORTGAGE SALE--Default has been made in the conditions of a Mortgage made by TIMOTHY LEE COLBURN AND JEANETTE ELLEN NORRIS, a single man and a single woman, Mortgagors, to NPB MORTGAGE, LLC, Mortgagee, dated September 13, 2005, and recorded September 19, 2005, Instrument Number 1153020, of Barry County Records, Michigan, which mortgage has been assigned by mesne assignments to First National Acceptance Company, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due as of the date of this notice $77,593.57, including interest at 12.95% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to the statutes of the State of Michigan, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public auction to the highest bidder, on Thursday, November 15, 2012, at 1 o’clock in the afternoon, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, Michigan. Said premises are situated in the Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 16 of Sundago Park, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, Page 71, Barry County Records; c/k/a 82 Sundago Park, Hastings, MI 49058 The redemption period shall be six months from the date of the sale, unless the premises are determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days. Please be advised that if the mortgaged property is sold at a foreclosure sale by advertisement, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 you will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale, or to the mortgage holder, for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: October 18, 2012 LeVasseur Dyer & Associates, PC Attorneys for Mortgagee Assignee P.O. Box 721400 Berkley, MI 48072 (248) 586-1200 77571824 (10-18)(11-08) SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by ROBIN M. ELWEN, A SINGLE WOMAN, to EXCHANGE FINANCIAL CORPORATION, Mortgagee, dated July 17, 2003, and recorded on July 28, 2003, in Document No. 1109466, and rerecorded on September 9, 2003 in Document No./Liber 1112854 and assigned by said mortgagee to MICHIGAN STATE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty Thousand One Hundred Seventeen Dollars and Thirty-Two Cents ($60,117.32), including interest at 4.500% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on November 8, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: THE NORTH 74 1 / 2 FEET OF LOT 4 OF BLOCK 4 OF H.J. KENFIELD'S, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN LIBER 1 OF PLATS, PAGE (S) 9 OF BARRY COUNTY RECORDS. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. MICHIGAN STATE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 USBW.001780 FHA 77571657 (10-11)(11-01) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Erin E. Hall and Gary N. Hall, wife and husband, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated March 23, 2004, and recorded on April 1, 2004 in instrument 1124511, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Flagstar Bank, FSB as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ten Thousand Six Hundred Seventy-Three and 80/100 Dollars ($110,673.80). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on October 25, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Part of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 19, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, described as: Beginning at a point on the North Section line; thence North 89 degrees 20 minutes 58 seconds East, 800 feet from the Northwest corner of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West, parallel with the West line of said Section 289.00 feet; thence North 89 degrees 20 minutes 58 seconds East, parallel with the North line of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 19, 256.00 feet; thence North 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East 289.00 feet; thence South 89 degrees 20 minutes 58 seconds West on said North line 256.00 feet to the Place of Beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: September 27, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #408547F01 77571151 (09-27)(10-18) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 18, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Judy A Gray Loy, An Unmarried Woman to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for American Sterling Bank its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated October 29, 2007 and recorded November 13, 2007 in Instrument # 20071113-0004079 Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage was assigned to: BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P., by assignment dated August 4, 2010 and recorded August 9, 2010 in Instrument # 201008090007410 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Two Thousand Nine Hundred Ninety-Seven Dollars and Ninety-One Cents ($82,997.91) including interest 3.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on October 25, 2012 Said premises are situated in Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North 50 feet of Lot 82 of Mix Addition to the Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof; also commencing 23 feet North of the Southeast corner of said Lot 82, Mix Addition to the Village of Nashville; thence East 28 feet; North 50 feet; West 28 feet; South 50 feet to the place of beginning. Subject to and together with; an easement for the purposes of ingress and egress over the following portion of Lot 82 of the Mix Addition to the Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof, beginning at the Northwest corner of said lot and thence Easterly along the lot line 100 feet, Southerly 6 feet parallel to Phillips Street, thence Westerly 100 feet to the West line of said lot, and thence Northerly 6 feet to the place of beginning. This easement intended for the purposes of establishing a joint driveway, for the purpose of ingress and egress only between Lots 82 and 83 of Mix Addition, without the rights to park or otherwise block this easement. Also subject to and together with; an easement for the purposes of ingress and egress over the following portion of Lot 83 of the Mix Addition to the Village of Nashville, according to the recorded plat thereof, beginning in the Southwest corner of said lot, thence Easterly along the lot line 100 feet, thence Northerly 6 feet parallel to Phillips Street, thence Westerly 100 feet to the West line of said lot, and thence Southerly to the place of beginning. This easement intended for the purpose of ingress and egress only between Lots 82 and 83 of the Mix Addition, without the rights to park otherwise block or use this easement. Commonly known as 116 Phillips St, Nashville MI 49073 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 9/27/2012 Bank of America, N.A. successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P., fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, LP Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-68833 (09-27)(10-18) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Virgil D. Walters Jr and Judy L. Walters, husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated October 22, 2004 and recorded November 15, 2004 in Instrument Number 1137258, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Wells Fargo Bank, NA by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Three Thousand Nine Hundred Forty-Three and 90/100 Dollars ($93,943.90) including interest at 6.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 11/08/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Barry County, Michigan: The South 209.00 feet of the North 627.00 feet of the East 365.00 feet of the Northeast 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 25, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, Hope Township, Barry County, Michigan. subject to the right of way over the East 33 feet thereof for Gurd Road. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: October 11, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 326.9846 77571607 (10-11)(11-01) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Scott Edgerton, A Single Man to Ameriquest Mortgage Company, Mortgagee, dated September 1, 2004 and recorded September 13, 2004 in Instrument # 1133833 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned through mesne assignments to: HouseHold Finance Corporation, III, by assignment dated February 24, 2012 and recorded February 27, 2012 in Instrument # 201202270001953 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy Thousand Eight Hundred Fifty-Two Dollars and Fifty-One Cents ($70,852.51) including interest at 8.30% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on November 1, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot number eight (8) of Vickery's Lakeside Park, in the Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof and Lot nine(9) and the East seventy-four (74) feet of lot number thirty-four (34), all of Vickery's Lakeside Park, in the Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded Plat thereof. Subject to conditions, restrictions and easements of record. Commonly known as 1173 Cottage nka 10144 Cottage and 857 Watts, Dowling MI 49050 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated:10/4/2012 HouseHold Finance Corporation, III, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-66423 77571435 (10-04)(10-25) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF A MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on September 19, 2006, by Daniel R. Welton and Judith Welton, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, given by them to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on October 17, 2006, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 1171503, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank by an Assignment of Mortgage dated November 15, 2011, recorded on December 1, 2011, in Instrument Number 201112010011202, Barry County Records, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of One Hundred Seventy Thousand One Hundred Ninety-Eight and 08/100 Dollars ($170,198.08); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, November 29, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF HASTINGS, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: Parcel “K”: Commencing at the North quarter post of Section 5, Town 3 North, Range 8 West; thence West along the North line of said Section, 1502.00 feet; thence South 47.67 feet to the centerline of Coats Grove Road; thence 335.05 feet along said centerline and the Arc of a curve to the left the radius of which is 358.10 feet and the chord of which bears South 38 degrees 08 minutes 10 seconds West 322.95 feet; thence continuing along said centerline South 11 degrees 20 minutes 00 seconds West 146.76 feet; thence continuing 169.62 feet along said centerline and the arc of a curve to the right the radius of which is 996.45 feet and the chord of which bears South 16 degrees 12 minutes 37 seconds West 169.43 feet to the true place of beginning; thence continuing 98.04 feet along said centerline and the arc of a curve to the right the radius of which is 996.45 feet and the chord of which bears South 23 degrees 54 minutes 20 seconds West 98 feet; thence North 73 degrees 30 minutes 34 seconds West 247.74 feet to an intermediate traverse line of the shore of Leach Lake; thence North 56 degrees 51 minutes 42 seconds East along said intermediate traverse line 137.21 feet; thence South 64 degrees 57 minutes 21 seconds East 86.06 feet; thence South 77 degrees 06 minutes 50 seconds East 86.58 feet to the place of beginning. Including lands lying between said traverse line and the waters of Leach Lake. Formerly Described as: A parcel of land in the Northwest fractional quarter of Section 5, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, described as: Commencing at the Southeast corner of Leach Lake Plat, according to the recorded Plat thereof, said point being 1376 feet West of the North quarter post of said Section 5; thence South 69 degrees 45 minutes West 326 feet; thence South 47 degrees West 69 half feet; thence South 36 degrees West 441 feet; thence South 21 degrees West 75 feet; thence South 16 degrees West 265 feet; thence Southwesterly along the highway 100 feet for the beginning; thence continuing Southerly along said highway 100 feet; thence West to the Shore of Leach Lake; thence Northerly along said Lake Shore to a point West of the place of beginning; thence East to the place of beginning. Commonly known as: 120 Coats Grove Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058-9509 Parcel Number: 08-06-005-042-00 The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: October 10, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, 77571813 MI 48933 (517) 371-8253 (10-18)(11-08) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Dianne L. Schwiegershausen, An Unmarried Woman, original mortgagor(s), to Centex Home Equity Company, LLC, Mortgagee, dated May 4, 2005, and recorded on May 11, 2005 in instrument 1146275, and modified by Affidavit or Order executed on March 31, 2010 and recorded on April 12, 2010 in instrument 201004120003830, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Four Thousand Two Hundred Sixty-Seven and 19/100 Dollars ($124,267.19). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on November 1, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Woodland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North 12 rods and 10 feet of the Northeast one quarter of the Northeast one quarter of Section 7, Town 4 North, Range 7 West, except the East 12 Rod and 10 feet thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: October 4, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #188791F02 77571381 (10-04)(10-25) NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT; ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY SERVICE PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW. Notice under MCL 600.3278: Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale under MCL 600.3201 et. seq., the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. ATTENTION POTENTIAL PURCHASERS AT FORECLOSURE SALE: In the case of resolution prior to or simultaneously with the aforementioned foreclosure sale, U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate Trust 1999-2, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents, may rescind this sale at any time prior to the end of the redemption period. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited to the return of your bid amount tendered at the sale, plus interest. Default having occurred in the conditions of a Mortgage made by Ruth A. Eggleston and Terry L. Eggleston ("Mortgagor"), to Green Tree Servicing LLC (f/k/a Green Tree Financial Servicing Corporation), dated October 9, 1998, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry in the State of Michigan on October 12, 1998, in Document Number 1019220, et. seq., said Mortgage being last assigned to U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate Trust 1999-2 ("Green Tree"), by Mortgage Assignment dated April 2, 2012, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry in the State of Michigan on April 11, 2012, in Document Number 201204120004425, et. seq., on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due as of the date of this Notice the sum of $120,631.10, which amount may or may not be the entire indebtedness owed by Debtors to Green Tree together with interest at 6.75 percent per annum. NOW THEREFORE, Notice is hereby given that the power of sale contained in said Mortgage has become operative and that pursuant to that power of sale and MCL 600.3201 et. seq., on November 15, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., on the East steps of the Circuit Court Building in Hastings, Michigan, that being the place for holding the Circuit Court and/or for conducting such foreclosure sales for the County of Barry, there will be offered at public sale, the premises, or some part thereof, described in said Mortgage as follows, to-wit: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF RUTLAND, COUNTY OF BARRY, STATE OF MICHIGAN, IS DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE SOUTH LINE OF SECTION 9, TOWN 3 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, DISTANT SOUTH 89 DEGREES 07' 54" WEST, 439.05 FEET FROM THE SOUTH 1/4 POST OF SAID SECTION 9; THENCE SOUTH 89 DEGREES 07' 54" WEST, 439.06 FEET ALONG SAID SOUTH LINE; THENCE NORTH 02 DEGREES 49' 32" WEST, 791.67 FEET; THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES 13' 22" EAST, 439.35 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 02 DEGREES 48' 24" EAST, 790.97 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING; SUBJECT TO AN EASEMENT FOR PUBLIC HIGHWAY PURPOSES OVER THE SOUTHERLY 33 FEET THEREOF. which also includes any interest Green Tree may have in the 1998 MFGD Housing Mobile Home, Serial Number M0308512. The redemption period shall be six (6) months unless the property is established to be abandoned pursuant to MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of sale or fifteen (15) days from the date the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(b) was posted and mailed, or unless under MCL 600.3240(17), prior to the foreclosure sale the borrower follows the procedure set forth in that section to establish the presumption that the property is used for Agricultural purposes, in which case the redemption period shall be one (1) year from the date of the sale. Dated: October 4, 2012 U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate PassThrough Certificate Trust 1999-2, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents By: DONALD A. BRANDT (P30183) BRANDT, FISHER, ALWARD & PEZZETTI, P.C. Attorneys for Green Tree 1241 E. Eighth Street, P.O. Box 5817 Traverse City, Michigan 49696-5817 (231) 941-9660 File No.: 6140.1100 Ad #39457 10/11, 10/18, 10/25, 77571568 11/01/2012 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Curtis M. Kenyon, A Married Man and Melisaa L. Kenyon, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 2, 2005, and recorded on August 12, 2005 in instrument 1151038, and assigned by said Mortgagee to THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-12 as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-One Thousand Five Hundred Sixty-Five and 25/100 Dollars ($81,565.25). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on November 1, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Castleton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land in the West one half of the Southwest one quarter of Section 28, Town 3 North, Range 7 West, described as beginning at the Southwest corner of said Section 28, thence North along the Center of the Highway 676 feet thence East 40 rods, thence South to the Center of Gregg's Crossing Road, thence West 40 rods to Place of Beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: October 4, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #412056F01 77571376 (10-04)(10-25) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage, made by MADISON D. HOWELL AND LINDA L. HOWELL, husband and wife, whose address is 3070 Madilin Lane, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagor, to MAINSTREET SAVINGS BANK, whose address was 629 W. State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as assigned in the Barry County Register of Deeds to Daemeon Richards and Jennifer Richards, whose address is P.O. Box 53, Hastings, Michigan 49058, and securing that certain Note between Madison D. Howell and Linda L. Howell, as Debtor and MainStreet Savings Bank, as Creditor, dated September 16, 2005, November 29, 2005 and May 6, 2003, and pursuant to that certain guarantee wherein Mortgagor, Madison D. Howell and Linda L. Howell, guaranteed the Note mentioned above and secured the guarantee with Mortgage described above. There is claimed to be due thereon, at the date of this notice, for principal and interest, the sum of SEVEN HUNDRED TWENTY-NINE THOUSAND EIGHT HUNDRED FIFTY-FOUR AND 25/100($729,854.25) Dollars with interest at the rate of 7.75%, as secured by the above-referenced mortgage as of this date. There also shall be attorney’s fees, unpaid real estate taxes and costs. And no proceedings having been instituted to recover the debt now remaining secured by said Mortgage, or any part thereof, whereby the power of sale contained in said Mortgage has become operative; NOW, THEREFORE, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that by virtue of the Power of Sale contained in said Mortgages, and in pursuance of the statute in such case made and provided, the above said Mortgage, will be foreclosed by a sale of the parcels of the premises therein described, or so much thereof as may be necessary, at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse, County of Barry, Michigan, that being the place of holding the Circuit Court in and for said County on the 15th day of November, 2012, at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, of said day and said premises will be sold to pay the amount so as aforesaid then due on said Mortgage, together with interest payable at the rate of 7.75%, together with late fees, legal costs, attorneys fees and also any taxes and insurance that said Mortgagee does pay on or prior to the date of said sale together with interest thereon as though on an open account at the rate of 5% per annum; which said premises are described in said Mortgage, to-wit: THE EAST 1/2 OF THE SOUTH 1/2 OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 30, TOWN 4 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST, CARLTON TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, EXCEPTING THEREFROM THE FOLLOWING: PART OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 30, TOWN 4 NORTH, CARLTON TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: COMMENCING AT THE EAST 1/4 CORNER OF SAID SECTION; THENCE NORTH 00°37’24” EAST 542.33 FEET ALONG THE EAST LINE OF SAID SECTION TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE NORTH 89°22’36” WEST 309.60 FEET; THENCE NORTH 00°18’04” WEST 265.03 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 89°22’36” EAST 313.87 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 00°37’24” WEST 265.00 FEET ALONG THE EAST LINE OF SAID SECTION TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING; NOW BEING A PART OF RED OAK ESTATES CONDOMINIUM, ACCORDING TO THE MASTER DEED RECORDED IN DOCUMENT NO. 1136354, AND AMENDMENTS THERETO, EXCEPTING THEREFROM UNITS 5, 6, 10, 11, 12 AND 13. The period of redemption will be six (6) months from date of sale. Dated: October 9, 2012 Nathan E. Tagg, Attorney for Daemeon and Jennifer Richards Drafted by: Nathan E. Tagg (P68994) Tripp & Tagg, Attorneys at Law 206 South Broadway Hastings, Michigan 49058 77571637 (269) 948-2900 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage, made by MADISON D. HOWELL AND LINDA L. HOWELL, husband and wife, whose address is 3070 Madilin Lane, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagor, to MAINSTREET SAVINGS BANK, whose address was 629 W. State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as assigned in the Barry County Register of Deeds to Daemeon Richards and Jennifer Richards, whose address is P.O. Box 53, Hastings, Michigan 49058, and securing that certain Note between Madison D. Howell and Linda L. Howell, as Debtor and MainStreet Savings Bank, as Creditor, dated September 16, 2005, November 29, 2005 and May 6, 2003, and pursuant to that certain guarantee wherein Mortgagor, Madison D. Howell and Linda L. Howell, guaranteed the Note mentioned above and secured the guarantee with Mortgage described above. There is claimed to be due thereon, at the date of this notice, for principal and interest, the sum of SEVEN HUNDRED TWENTY-NINE THOUSAND EIGHT HUNDRED FIFTY-FOUR AND 25/100($729,854.25) Dollars with interest at the rate of 7.75%, as secured by the above-referenced mortgage as of this date. There also shall be attorney’s fees, unpaid real estate taxes and costs. And no proceedings having been instituted to recover the debt now remaining secured by said Mortgage, or any part thereof, whereby the power of sale contained in said Mortgage has become operative; NOW, THEREFORE, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that by virtue of the Power of Sale contained in said Mortgages, and in pursuance of the statute in such case made and provided, the above said Mortgage, will be foreclosed by a sale of the parcels of the premises therein described, or so much thereof as may be necessary, at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse, County of Barry, Michigan, that being the place of holding the Circuit Court in and for said County on the 15th day of November, 2012, at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, of said day and said premises will be sold to pay the amount so as aforesaid then due on said Mortgage, together with interest payable at the rate of 7.75%, together with late fees, legal costs, attorneys fees and also any taxes and insurance that said Mortgagee does pay on or prior to the date of said sale together with interest thereon as though on an open account at the rate of 5% per annum; which said premises are described in said Mortgage, to-wit: THE NORTH 1/2 OF THE WEST 1/2 OF THE SOUTH 1/2 OF THE NORTHEAST 1\4 OF SECTION 30, TOWN 4 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST, CARLTON TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN. The period of redemption will be six (6) months from date of sale. Dated: October 9, 2012 Nathan E. Tagg, Attorney for Daemeon and Jennifer Richards Drafted by: Nathan E. Tagg (P68994) Tripp & Tagg, Attorneys at Law 206 South Broadway Hastings, Michigan 49058 77571632 (269) 948-2900 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Shane S.A. Gerard, a single man, to NPB Mortgage, LLC, Mortgagee, dated August 27, 2007 and recorded September 12, 2007 in Instrument Number 20070912-0001949, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Cenlar FSB by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fourteen Thousand Eight Hundred Thirty-Four and 79/100 Dollars ($114,834.79) including interest at 7.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 11/01/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The East 85.27 feet of Lot 27, and the West 23 feet of Lot 28, Supervisor's Plat Number 1, Yankee Springs Township, Barry County, Michigan, as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, Page 77. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: October 4, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 275.0708 77571445 (10-04)(10-25) �Page 12 — Thursday, October 18, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Thornapple Township, village fail to reach agreement on road millage proposal by Julie Makarewicz Staff Writer Thornapple Township officials say they don’t want any hard feelings with the Village of Middleville, but they decided Monday night it’s best to let voters decide if they want to support a .75 road millage and not enter into any agreement with the village to share funds. The Middleville Village Council approved a resolution asking the township to share a portion of the millage funds for village street needs if it is approved. Township officials say there isn’t enough money to share with the village if they want to keep the millage at the “conservative” .75 mills. Township Clerk Susan Vlietstra said it’s simply too late now to seek an agreement. “If the village had come to us before and talked about this, we would have asked for a different amount in the millage,” she said. “We are trying to be considerate of our taxpayers and keeping the millage at a very conservative number.” The millage proposal will be on the Nov. 6 ballot. It is proposed as a three-year millage for maintenance and improvement of township roads and not for street projects within the village. The first year, the millage will generate an estimated $175,650. For the owner of a home with a taxable value of $60,000, it means an additional $45 per year. However, township residents will see a tax reduction since a 1.5-mill levy for the Thornapple Township Emergency Services building will be paid off with the 2012 tax collections. If the road millage is approved, it’s still only about half of the cost of the TTES millage. In addition to the millage, the township will continue budgeting $75,000 from the general fund for a total of about $250,000 per year. Village residents already pay 2 mills for road maintenance within the village — a millage that was set by the village council and did not require voter approval. Township officials said this is their only avenue available for raising more funds for roads. “I feel rather than enter into an agreement with the village, I think we should just let the voters decide if they want the millage or not,” said township board member Patrick Harrison. Even though the township won’t enter into an agreement with the village, the village’s Downtown Development Authority and the Local Development Finance Authority will be allowed to collect their share of the taxes, amounting to about $9,000. “We wanted to be good neighbors and allowed the DDA and LDFA to collect their share,” said Treasurer Debra Buckowing. She said relinquishing more of the funds would not be fair to the township roads that need maintenance. “We can’t accomplish what we set out to do if we give up the funds. I don’t see it as double-dipping in any way,” said Buckowing. Township Supervisor Don Boysen reminded everyone that the village is part of the township. “They have to use the township roads to get out of the village,” he said. Buckowing said communication between the village and township is “a bit strained. We weren’t aware of some things about the village until we read them in the press,” she said. Village Manager Rebecca Fleury, who attended the township meeting, said communication is a two-way effort and suggested improvements on both sides. The village council did not know of the road millage request until after the township board approved the ballot language. “Communication has to work two ways,” said Buckowing. “We didn’t rush into the road millage. We asked voters a few years ago, and we’ve discussed it. We did put this year’s ballot language together very quickly. There are just lots of things the township doesn’t get consulted on from the village. I think it’s a little unfair to blast us in the newspaper. I don’t think it’s been handled very neighborly.” She also reminded township officials the township supports the village in other ways. “We have never asked for money from the village for assessing. We bear that cost, yet information goes to the village,” said Buckowing. Buckowing said the township also needs to be informed of potential tax abatements in the village, since the implications can impact the township budget. Fleury said the village is required by law to notify the township and other taxing entities of any public hearing for tax abatements, and the village has followed those regulations. She said if needed she can notify the township as soon as an application is submitted. State News Roundup Officials sue to count late military ballots Secretary of State Ruth Johnson and Attorney General Bill Schuette Friday announced they are filing suit against 24 communities to require local clerks to extend the counting deadline for ballots that were not sent by the deadline set by Michigan election law so the voices of military and overseas voters are heard. “The men and women who put their lives on the line to defend our freedoms must be able to participate in our democracy,” Johnson said. “While the vast majority of local clerks met the deadline, we must ensure that all military and overseas voters’ voices are heard in the Nov. 6 election.” Johnson and Schuette are pursuing legal action to ask judges to order local clerks to extend the counting deadline for military and overseas voters who applied for a ballot by the Sept. 22 deadline by the number of days the ballots were delayed. Legislation supported by Johnson that would allow the secretary of state to extend the counting deadline without the need for court intervention is before the state Senate after House approval. Despite repeated reminders from the Michigan Department of State Bureau of Elections and other groups, clerks in 24 local communities (none in Barry County) reported that they did not send out 38 military and overseas ballots 45 days before the Nov. 6 election, as required. More than 8,700 ballots were requested before the deadline. That means that more than 98 percent of clerks sent the ballots in time and the number of late ballots is significantly less than during the August primary election when 155 ballots were sent to military and overseas voters past the deadline. Bureau of Elections staff sent multiple reminders to all 1,517 local clerks about their responsibility to send out the ballots by the deadline. Bureau of Elections staff also worked with the Michigan Townships Association and the Michigan Municipal League to inform local clerks about the deadline. Public sector unions made most concessions in contract negotiations Local government leaders in Michigan report that their employees’ unions made concessions in negotiations this year more frequently than the jurisdictions did on pay, benefits, staffing and work rules, according to a University of Michigan survey. By far, the biggest giveback, according to the poll by the U-M’s Ford School of Public Policy, was on fringe benefits: 69 percent of local leaders report their employees’ unions made concessions in this area, while just 5 percent report the jurisdiction made concessions. Another 5 percent say each side made concessions, while 17 percent say neither side made concessions. Due in part to declining local government revenue and pressures to cut costs, many public sector labor unions came to the table ready to make concessions. In addition, new state policies may have driven some of the reductions in employee benefits. Public Act 152 of 2011 limits how much jurisdictions can contribute toward the health care costs of their employees, and the state’s new Economic Vitality Incentive Program uses revenue-sharing incentives to encourage limits on both health care and retirement benefits. The poll, part of the Michigan Public Policy Survey series at the Ford School’s Center for Local, State, and Urban Policy, also reports that, according to local leaders, the overall relationship with their employees’ unions is positive: 16 percent say the relationship is excellent, while 50 percent say it is good. By contrast, 29 percent say relations are fair, and just 5 percent say they are poor. The survey also found that statewide, only 27 percent of local governments have a public sector labor union. Among them, 78 percent negotiated with their unions in the past 12 months. The study, conducted April 9 to June 18, involved surveys sent via hard copy and the Internet to top elected and appointed officials in all counties, cities, villages and townships in Michigan. A total of 1,329 jurisdictions returned valid surveys, resulting in a 72 percent response rate. For the full survey, go to http://closup.umich.edu/michigan-public-policy-survey/20/michigans-local-leaders-satisfied-with-union-negotiations Pratt promoted to deputy chief Jeff Pratt is back in uniform after three years as a detective with the Hastings Police Department. Pratt was recently name deputy chief of police. He takes over the position left empty a year ago when Mike Leedy retired. Pratt will celebrate 25 years with Hastings Police Department this year. THE BARRY COUNTY ROAD COMMISSION 77571687 77571693 77571690 77571696 will be taking sealed bids on the following home at 5030 Squire Lane, Middleville, MI 49333. Bids will be accepted at the Barry County Road Commission, 1725 West M-43 Hwy., PO Box 158, Hastings, MI 49058, until October 29, 2012 at 10:00 AM. Home is on 5.43 acres, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths. Minimum Bid $160,000. More info and photos at www.barrycrc.org. The Board reserves the right to reject any or all bids, or to waive irregularities in the best interest of the Commission. Envelope must be marked *SEALED BID*. BOARD OF COUNTY ROAD COMMISSIONERS OF THE COUNTY OF BARRY Frank M. Fiala, Chairman D. David Dykstra, Member 77571599 David D. Solmes, Member NOTICE The Barry County Board of Commissioners is seeking applications from volunteers to serve on the following Boards/Commissions: 77571681 77571684 Agricultural Preservation Board (5 positions: 2 representing Natural Resource Conservation, 2 representing Agricultural Interest, and 1 representing Real Estate or Development Interest) Building Authority (1 position) Charlton Park Village and Museum Board (4 positions, Citizen at Large) Commission on Aging Board (4 positions) Parks and Recreation Board (1 position, Citizen at Large) Road Commission (1 position) Solid Waste Oversight Committee (1 position, representing Health Association/Environmental Professional) Transit (1 position) Applications may be obtained at the County Administration Office, 3rd floor of the Courthouse, 220 W. State St., Hastings; or www.barrycounty.org; and must be returned no later than 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 24, 2012. Contact 269-945-1284 for more information. 77571399 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 18, 2012 — Page 13 Nashville council has third resignation in a month by Shari Carney Staff Writer In less than a month, three people have resigned from the Nashville Village Council. Mike Kenyon, who has served as vice president of the Nashville Village Council, was not at the council’s Thursday, Oct. 11, meet- ing. Instead, President Frank Dunham read aloud Kenyon’s letter of resignation, stating the resignation was effective Tuesday, Oct. 9. Trustee Richard Harwood resigned Sept. 13, citing family obligations as the reason for his departure. Trustee Mary Coll had submitted an email COURT NEWS Daltin Cody Lingbeek, 17, of Battle Creek was sentenced Oct. 10 in Barry County Circuit Court for criminal sexual conduct, third degree, with a person 13 to 15 years old. Lingbeek was ordered by Judge Amy McDowell to serve six months in jail, with credit for seven days served. He must pay $698 in court assessments and serve 24 months on probation. Lingbeek is court ordered to pay $75 per month toward assessments and obtain his GED. Three months of his jail time will be suspended pending successful completion of probation. Three additional charges of criminal sexual conduct, third degree, with a person 13 to 15 were dropped. Aaron J. Ketchum, 41, of Hastings was sentenced in circuit court Oct. 10 for criminal sexual conduct, third degree, multiple variables and criminal sexual conduct, second degree, with a person under 13 years old. Ketchum was ordered by Judge McDowell to serve 84 to 180 months in prison, with credit for 93 days served. He also must pay $266 in court assessments. Four additional charges of criminal sexual conduct, first degree, with a person under 13 and a charge of criminal sexual conduct, second degree, were dropped. Paul David Vickery II, 34, of Delton was sentenced Oct. 11 in circuit court for possession of a non-narcotic drug. Judge McDowell ordered Vickery to serve 30 days in jail, with credit for one day served. He must pay $1,698 in court assessments and serve 24 months of probation. He must attend drug court and pay $100 a month toward court assessments. James Alan Lake, 33, of Hastings was sentenced Oct. 11 in circuit court for operating a vehicle with a high blood alcohol content. Judge McDowell ordered Lake to serve 60 days in jail, with credit for one day served. He must pay $1,248 in court assessments and serve 12 months on probation. Lake’s license is suspended for 365 days and restricted after 45 days. The balance of his jail time will be suspended pending successful completion of probation. He must begin earning a GED while in jail and pay $150 per month toward assessments when he gets out of jail. A charge of assaulting, resisting or obstructing a police officer was dropped. Skylar Scott Ross-Matrau, 18, of Shelbyville was sentenced in Barry County Circuit Oct. 12 Court for possession of marijuana. Judge McDowell ordered Ross-Matrau to serve nine months on probation and pay $803 in court assessments. He must pay $90 per month toward assessments. Charges of possession of methamphetamine/ecstasy and use of marijuana, spice or salvia were dropped. POLICE BEAT BEA Nashville Police seek information on break-ins Nashville Police responded to a morning break-in at the Nashville C-Store Oct. 15. The glass in the front door of the Main Street store had been smashed. The officer responded to the alarm, but no witnesses or suspects were at the scene. A search of the business determined no one had entered the building. Nashville Police checking the property at Bear’s Den party store on Main Street in Nashville around 3 a.m. Tuesday found the front door window smashed, but no one had entered the building. Similar incidents reportedly continued into Eaton County, said Nashville Police Chief Jerry Schray, but no further information is available. Nashville Police are asking people to call 517-852-9866 with any information. String of vehicle thefts in Hastings Hastings Police responded to a call of two suspects breaking into a vehicle in the 600 block of Barfield Drive Oct. 10. Police did not locate the suspects, but started to receive several more complaints of thefts from cars, receiving 11 in all. During the investigation, with the assistance of the Michigan State Police and their K-9 unit, Hastings Police located two suspects and recovered several items that had been stolen. A South Hanover resident said her vehicle had been ransacked with items thrown all over the interior. The vehicle had been unlocked, she said, and a backpack, car cell phone charger, flash drives and medication were missing. On South Dibble Street, a resident said she was visiting her parents and when she was ready to leave noticed that a new ATV/Utility 2000pound winch was gone, along with a Nintendo DS handheld game Police arrested a 20-year-old Hastings man on charges of larceny from a motor vehicle and malicious destruction of property. A 16-yearold also was arrested but was released into the custody of his parents. The investigation is ongoing, and Hastings Police encourage people to lock their vehicles at all times. Woman screams her way to jail Hastings Police responded Oct. 9 to a noise complaint at a home in the 400 block of North Broadway. When officers arrived, a female was screaming inside the residence. Officers made contact with the woman who said she was upset at a friend. While checking on the identities of the parties involved, police learned of a warrant for the woman’s arrest. As officers attempted to place her under arrest she declined and attempted to walk back inside of her residence. A struggle ensued and she was eventually taken into custody on an outstanding traffic warrant and for resisting and obstructing police. Guns protected by six dogs Barry County Animal Control was called to assist Michigan State Police at a residence on M-78 in Bellevue Oct. 4. Troopers were serving a search warrant on a possible report of a large number of firearms in the home. They broke through the door only to find several pitbulls inside. Animal Control staff discovered six dogs — our inside and two in the backyard. Two were removed by control pole and two others by leash and placed in the control truck. The four dogs were transported to the Barry County Animal Shelter until their owner reclaims them. The following day, troopers called Animal Control again and reported that the two remaining dogs had entered the residence through a sliding door. Troopers requested the dogs be removed. The dog’s owner was present when Animal Control arrived, provided proof the dogs were licensed, and took the dogs to his vehicle while police were in his home. Police found nearly 400 guns in the home (as reported in the Oct. 11 Banner.) Student tries to enhance concentration Deputies were contacted Oct. 4 by DK Academy in reference to a suspected exchange of medication by students. No money was reportedly exchanged between the 19-year-old female and 18-year-old male students. A teacher said the students were honest with her and admitted that one had given the other two Ritalin tablets. One student had asked the other for the pills to help concentrate in school. Apparently, the student to whom the medication was prescribed had given pills to the other student several times in the past. When asked by the deputy if they knew the exchange was illegal, the students said they did. The case remains open pending court disposition. to Clerk Cathy Lentz Friday, Sept. 28, after the regular meeting Thursday, Sept. 27. Coll, however, was seated at the council table Thursday evening. With Trustee Johnny Hartwell absent and Harwood’s seat still open, Dunham needed at least four council members to have a quorum in order to pay the monthly bills. Coll’s resignation had yet to be approved by council. Three individuals had applied for Harwood’s open seat: Gary White, Ben Langham and Darrin Fisher. White had submitted a letter of intention to council during the police committee workshop Thursday, Oct. 4. Langham and Fisher submitted letters earlier. The first nomination of Gary White came from Trustee Terry Zoerman. When Dunham asked for a show of hands, Zoerman’s was the lone vote. The second nomination came from Trustee Marcia Scramlin for Fisher. Dunham and Scramlin voted for Fisher, while Coll abstained. Coll said she did not think it was fair for her to vote, since she would be leaving as soon as the bills were paid. “You need four votes to put someone on,” High schooler suspended for carrying knife A 15-year old Hastings High School student was expelled from Hastings Area Schools, beginning Tuesday, Oct. 16, after admitting to possessing a knife on school property and threatening another student Wednesday, Oct. 10. During a disciplinary hearing Monday, the Hastings Board of Education, with board President Kevin beck and Secretary Donna Garrison absent, approved a motion to expel the student by a 4-1 vote with trustees Patricia Endsley, Jon Hart, Rob Longstreet, and Dan Patton voting in favor of the motion, and Gene Haas dissenting. The student may submit a request for reinstatement no earlier than Jan. 1, 2013. Students suspended after sharing tainted brownies A Delton Kellogg sixth grade student brought a plate of brownies to school Oct. 9 that allegedly contained a laxative. The brownies were given to 14 classmates. A student spoke up and let an adult know the brownies possibly had the laxative baked into them. Superintendent Paul Blacken said school officials acted immediately. “No adverse affects were noticed by any student,” said Blacken. “A letter from the administration was sent home to all who received a brownie explaining what happened, and a school official and police officer would be personally speaking with everyone within 24 hours. The person who brought the brownies, and the person who distributed them were suspended from school while the investigation was completed. The kids are back in class, and all is now quiet.” Lakewood gets into D3 district semifinals Dylan Durkee set a new Lakewood record for assists in a season with 17 in Lakewood’s 9-1 victory at Portland Monday in the opening round of the Division 3 state tournament. Durkee had two assists, and scored once himself in the Vikings’ second win of the season over the Raiders. The win put the Vikings into last night’s district semifinals against Maple Valley. Stockbridge and Lansing Catholic were set to meet up in the other district semifinal Wednesday. The district final will be played Saturday at Fuller Street Field in Nashville. Kalib McKinney had three goals, while Drew Durkee, Evan Knapp, Kyler Knapp, Joey Reed and Jake Waldron scored once each for the Vikings in the win Monday. Kyler Knapp, Daniel Sauers and Jesse Darnell had two assists each, and Kevin Foltz added one. Dane Hengesback scored the lone goal for Portland. Brady Forman made seven saves in net for the Vikings. said Clerk Cathy Lentz. Zoerman swung his vote to Fisher, but the council still was one vote short. “I will vote for Fisher,” said Coll. Having the required votes, Fisher stood, was sworn in and took a seat at the table. Later, as soon as the bills were approved for payment, Coll gathered up her items and left. The meeting continued. Coll had served on the village council 10 years, beginning in April 2002. Kenyon served a total of 12 years, from April of 1996 to November 1999 and a second time from April 2003 to the present. TK students helping families whose homes burned by Julie Makarewicz Staff Writer Two families within the Thornapple Kellogg School District were displaced by house fires last week, and the schools are reaching out in support. No one was injured in either blaze. The families affected are the Dawn and Merle Simmons II family and the Todd and Jane Young family. The Simmons’ ranch-style home on Jackson Road was heavily damaged by fire Saturday, Oct. 6. Thornapple Township Fire Chief David Middleton said the blaze was reported about 11:30 a.m. and apparently started in a bedroom closet by a heat lamp. Middleton said he did not have a dollar amount on the estimated damage to the home, but that it was heavily damaged by smoke. The fire was contained mainly to two rooms in the home. The Simmons’ have six children, the oldest children attending TK schools. Dawn Simmons and the children were home at the time the fire started and were able to get out of the house without injury. Middleton said he believed the home had working smoke detectors. A second fire Thursday, Oct. 11, destroyed the home of Todd and Jane Young at 6128 Big Pine Drive, between Hastings and Middleville The Young’s ranch-style home was destroyed by the blaze. They have two children in the TK schools. Hastings Fire Chief Roger Caris said the home is a total loss, with an estimated value of $201,000. He said the department received the call about 10:45 a.m. and were assisted at the scene by Thornapple Township and Freeport fire departments. Caris said the cause of the fire is still under investigation. TK school students and staff collected clothing and funds to assist the families. Quimby Road home destroyed by fire Tuesday A fire early Tuesday morning, Oct. 9, destroyed the home of Dan and Sue Carlson at 2876 Quimby Road, Hastings. Hastings Fire Chief Roger Caris said he blaze was reported about 12:30 a.m. Caris said the home is a total loss but did not have a dollar estimate on the value. He said the homeowners did not have insurance. Caris said no one was home at the time the blaze started, and no one was injured. Fire departments from Delton, Freeport and Thornapple Township assisted at the scene. Caris said the cause of the blaze is still under investigation. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 For Sale For Rent Business Services AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 WALL LAKE, DELTON: 2 bedroom apartment. References & deposit. No pets, 269-623-8218. BASEMENT WATERPROOFING: PROFESSIONAL BASEMENT SERVICES waterproofing, crack repair, mold remediation. 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PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 Call anytime to place your ad in the Hastings Banner (269) 945-9554 or toll free: 1-800-870-7085 �Page 14 — Thursday, October 18, 2012 — The Hastings Banner TK/Hastings girls improve to 5-0 in O-K Rainbow by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The score was never very close Thursday night, but that didn’t mean the Thornapple Kellogg/Hastings girls didn’t have to work. TK/Hastings’ Libby Betcher won her two individual races by a combined total of .69 seconds. The Trojan team won its O-K Rainbow dual at Grand Rapids Union High School by the final score of 97-65. Betcher edged the Hawks’ Marielle Johnson in the 100-yard freestyle. Betcher touched the wall in 1 minute 3.52 seconds, and Johnson in 1:03.88. In the 100-yard breaststroke Betcher finished in 1:16.25, just ahead of the Hawks’ Samantha Lesatz who touched the wall in 1:16.59. “I always tell the kids, ‘don’t ever let anybody beat you in the last length,’ so they work hard on that,” said TK/Hastings head coach Carl Schoessel. “We haven’t lost more than one or two races in the last length all season. They work hard to do that, and that’s good.” The TK/Hastings girls haven’t lost any meets all season, improving to 8-0 in duals with the win and 5-0 in the conference. “We had a couple of kids who really did well (tonight),” Schoessel said. “Overall some of the events we used as kind of a warm-up for the MISCA Meet, for example TK/Hastings’ Emma Anderson splashes through the water on her way to a time of 1:12.47 in the 100-yard butterfly at Grand Rapids Union Thursday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) TK/Hastings’ Jennifer Tuokkola races towards victory in the 200-yard freestyle during Thursday’s O-K Rainbow dual at Grand Rapids Union. (Photo by Brett Bremer) the medley relay, just to give them more time to swim together and practice their relay exchanges and so forth.” The MISCA Meet was held Friday and Saturday at Eastern Michigan University, with the top swimmers from across all divisions in the state. The TK/Hastings medley relay team cruised to victory in 2:01.27 Thursday, with Kayla Strumberger, Alexa Schipper, Hannah Bashore and Kayla Kroells getting the win. Jennifer Tuokkola matched Betcher’s two individual wins. She took the 500-yard freestyle in 6:13.40 and the 200-yard freestyle in 2:20.46. Kourtney Dobbin took the other individual freestyle win for TK/Hastings, winning the 50-yard race in 28.08 seconds. TK/Hastings also had Bashore win the 100yard butterfly in 1:05.07 and Strumberger win the 100-yard backstroke in 1:06.81. Kroells, Dobbin, Emma Anderson and Schipper took the 200-yard freestyle relay in 1:53.15, and Bashore, Marissa Swanson, Strumberger and Kroells won the 400-yard freestyle in 4:11.60. The Hawks’ lone win came in the diving competition, where Morgan Hitchings totaled 201.05 points. TK/Hastings’ Brieanna Sheldon was second with a score of 182.85. “Their kids did very well. Their kids swam very well. They should be very proud of their effort,” Schoessel said. The TK/Hastings girls host Creston in Hastings Thursday, then go to the Ottawa Hills Invitational Saturday. Schipper had the top finish for the TK/Hastings team at the MISCA Meet, placing 19th in the 100-yard breaststroke in a time of 1:10.31. That was the only individual even in which the Trojans’ had two girls competing. Libby Betcher was 65th in 1:14.01. Shipper swam in four events. She also teamed with Strumberger, Bashore and Kroells for a 20th-place time of 1:55.91 in the 200-yard medley relay, placed 76th in the 200-yard individual medley in 2:25.51, and joined Kroells, Dobbin and Katy Garber to place 42nd in the 200-yard freestyle relay with a time of 1:48.52. In the other relay, the 400-yard freestyle, Bashore, Swanson, Strumberger and Kroells finished 48th with a time of 4:01.14. TK/Hastings also had Kroells 77th in the 50-yard freestyle in 26.67, Strumberger 80th in the 100-yard backstroke in 1:06.95 and Bashore 36th in the 100-yard butterfly in 1:02.79. Panthers improve to 7-0 in league by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Panthers have chnaged up the line-up throughout the season. They’ve changed up the formation. “We run a 4-2, we run a six-up. I’ve never run that stuff in 35 years,” said Delton Kellogg varsity volleyball coach Jack Magelssen, Delton Kellogg’s Hannah Walker passes the ball during the second set of her team’s 2-0 KVA victory at Olivet Wednesday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Sale! October 18-29, 2012 BIRD 10-50% FEEDERS ON SALE $8.99 OFF Thistle Seed 10#........................................ Black Oil Sunflower 50#.........................$24.99 Birdola Plus Cakes ..............................$3.99 ea. Case of 8................................................$28.99 Suet Cakes - Heath DD4-14-15-18 12 pk .................................$8.99 Wildlife Science Value Packs 10 pk....................................$6.99 (Supplies are limited) 4-STAGE LAWN PROGRAM LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED FOR OVER 90 YEARS Hamblin Battle Creek FARM BUREAU Battle Creek FARM BUREAU Dickman Rd Washington Jackson MN Ave Kendall FARM BUREAU I-94 44th St Battle Creek 42nd St Buy your products for next year at this year’s prices. Plus... We will store it for FREE and you can pick it up next year as you need it! OP Ave 14325 OP Ave. Climax • 269-746-4286 MON-FRI 8AM-5PM, SAT 8AM-12PM 295 Hamblin Ave. Battle Creek • 269-962-4025 MON-FRI 8:30AM-5PM, SAT 8:30AM-12PM No sales to retailers or wholesalers. Good while supplies last. We reserve the right to limit quantities. Delton Kellogg’s Faith Ferris (11) goes up to block an attack by Olivet’s Jessica Griffin Wednesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) “now, only because, we have to cut down all our errors.” “We’re going to try to do everything we can to put them in the right position to not have them move to get there. That’s all we can do. We struggle. Our biggest thing is copmetitiveness.” All that said, the Panthers are listed among the honorable mention teams in the Class C state rankings and they improved to 7-0 in the Kalamazoo Valley Association with a 25-17, 25-19, 25-14 victory at Olivet Wednesday evening. “We had probably more competitiveness today than we’ve had in a month,” Magelssen said Wednesday. “This is certainly Ali’s (Vanderwoude) best match by far.” Vanderwoude led the Panther atttack with 19 kills and six aces. She also had two solo blocks and tied for the team-lead in diggs with six. “She was waiting instead of being early all the time,” Magelssen said. “She was planning for the ball, where before she was just planning to a spot and hoping the ball would be there. I think she played with a little more intensity.” Faith Ferris added seven kills for the Panthers. Vanderwoude and Ferris need to hit well to carry the attack for Delton Kellogg, especially against good teams like the one the Panthers were set to face last night. Delton was scheudled to host Schoolcraft in a battle between two teams that were 7-0 in the KVA heading into the match. Kristen Mohn had 12 assists and Kanoe Chaffee had ten in the win over Olivet. Delton also got three aces each from Mohn and Hannah Phommavongsa. Rachel Parker and Phommavongsa matched Vanderwoude’s six digs, while Kaysie Hook and Libby Parker had five apiece. “(Olivet) served tough. They live and die with their serve. They’re going to make errors, but they’re also going to serve tough. The ones that they serve tough we better get our hands on and get it up. I thought we did a pretty good job of that. They aced us a few times, but we Panther setter Kristen Mohn passes the ball up during Wednesday’s KVA contest at Olivet High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) also passed it pretty well. Little Libby Parker, I brought her up yesterday and threw her out there because we’re playing that six-up and she did a great job. She moved. She didn’t stand around and watch balls.” Delton Kellogg closes out KVA matches with a trip to Pennfield Tuesday, then will head to the KVA Tournament in Olivet Saturday Oct. 27. TK finally gets first O-K Gold win by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Dan Dykstra rushed for two touchdowns. Aaron Ordway kicked two field goals. Cole Gahan had two interceptions. Ben Jazwinski had two sacks. And Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity football team scored victory number two on the season. The Trojans traveled to Wayland and topped the Wildcats 39-8 Friday to improve to 2-6 overall and 1-3 in the O-K Gold Conference. TK closes out the regular season at home against Ottawa Hills this Friday. The Trojans threw out the records heading into the contest. “Tonight as just one game,” said TK head coach Chad Ruger. “I said, ‘make it your championship.’” The Trojans did that, and the starters did it so well that everyone got to be involved in the victory. Ruger was proud of the way they did their jobs and proud of the way they stood there on the sidelines rooting on the reserves. Ordway scored the Trojans’ first points on a short field goal in the opening quarter, then TK exploded for 16 points in the second and 13 more in the third. Ordway would add a 41yard field goal in the second quarter. Dykstra had the two touchdown runs, CJ Bronkema rushed for one, Garrett Harris rushed for one, and Cole Cronkwright caught a touchdown pass from quarterback Grant Allison. Allison was 6-of-8 passing on the night for 89 yards. Nate Stahl led all Trojan receivers with three catches for 52 yards. On the ground, Bronkema had seven rushes for 67 yards, Dykstra nine for 45 yards and Addison Schipper seven for 20 yards. “We didn’t have those second and 12s and those second and 18s,” said Ruger. “That helped out a lot. Our backs ran hard. Our quarterback made good decisions. Our offensive line got underneath them and gave us a place to go.” The defense took care of all its duties as well. “It didn’t matter if they ran into the middle, to the left or to the right. We had somebody there to make the tackle,” said Ruger. In the secondary, the Trojan defenders knocked down passes and caught a couple. Gahan had the two interceptions and Garrett Harris added one. Connor Collier had a team-high six tackles for TK. Zack Kidder, Jacob Nelson, Noah Newton and Jazwinski had four each. Gahan added a blocked punt as well. Wayland falls to 0-8 with the loss, and 0-4 in the O-K Gold. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 18, 2012 — Page 15 Lakewood girls win 10th straight championship by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Don’t let the reaction fool you. The Vikings like to win conference championships. But they also expect to. They won their Tingley and four blocks from Taylor Shook. Everyone contributed to the championship, as they have all season long for the top ranked team in the state in Class B. “Lets face it, I don’t have a signed scholarship player on this team,” Rowland said. “They just play hard, they play with that experince and that’s nice. They know it’s a team effort. “Truly, even from the bench. Sunshine coming in and giving us a few points is huge. It gets you over the hump. Taylor VantLand is ready to go in, and let me get Beth (Tingley) a break, let her see what’s happening. You can do that with so much confidence with this team because they all are so ready to play. It’s hard to be like that, because I am not one that subs just to sub. I never have been. I’ve got to Lakewood’s varsity volleyball team celebrates its tenth straight conference championship after winning Saturday’s Capital Area Activities Conference White Division Tournament at Portland High School. Team members are (front from left) Emily Kutch, Brooke Wieland, Olivia Davis, (back) Charlotte Smith, Sunshine Young, Taylor VantLand, Madison Neustifter, Taylor Shook, Vanessa Reynhout, Jordan Kietzman, Beth Tingley and Karly Morris. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Lakewood setter Brooke Wieland sets the ball up as teammate Taylor Shook sets up for an attack during their contest with Portland at the CAAC-White Tournament Saturday in Portland. (Photo by Brett Bremer) tenth in a row Saturday. There was no screaming mob scene. Players celebrated louder for winning single points throughout Saturday’s Capital Area Activities Conference White Division Tournament than at the moment they actually knocked off the host Raiders in the championship game. Of course, the Vikings’ outright league championship was clinched hours earlier when the Raiders upset Williamston in the semifinals. “We’re happy. It’s just one of our first, hopefully, wins of the season as we come into postseason,” said Lakewood senior setter Brooke Wieland. “The postseason is very important. This kind of gets us ready.” The Raiders did their best to push the Vikings. Lakewood topped the Raiders in the championship match 25-22, 25-17, 25-19. A couple of aces by Alexza Kaiser and one LHS girls going to finals for first time as a team Lakewood’s Emily Barker (left) and Oliva Barker pose on the medal stand after Wednesday’s Division 3 Regional Tournament at Pigeon Creek Golf Course in West Olive. Emily was fourth and Olivia fifth to help the Viking team earn a spot in the state finals for the first time. by Brett Bremer Sports Editor There is a first time for everything. Lakewood’s varsity girls’ golf team will go to the Division 3 State Finals for the first time next weekend after placing second at Wednesday’s regional tournament hosted by Pigeon Creek golf Course. The finals will be held at Bedford Valley in Battle Creek Friday and Saturday. “We have sent several individuals to the finals in years past, but is so cool to see the whole team go for the first time,” said Lakewood head coach Carl Kutch. “The weather was brutally tough today - 35 degree wind chill, gusts to 30 mph, some of the most miserable conditions I have seen for high school golf. On top of that, this course was long (5700 yards) and full of hazards. Our girls really played tough despite the weather. It takes a very special athlete to endure a day like today both physically and mentally. I am so proud of this team.” Only eight girls were under 100 on the day. Three of them were Sailors. South Christian earned the regional championship with a score of 376, led by individual medalist Megan Wieringa who shot an 87. Lakewood was second with a 397, and Grand Rapids Christian was the third state qualifying team with a 416, beating out Holland Christian on the fifth-score tie-breaker. Emily Barker led Lakewood with a 93 and Olivia Barker shot a 95, placing them fourth and fifth respectively. “Emily Barker had a consistent front and back today,” said Kutch. “She took advantage of the holes she could and managed the course well. Olivia got off to a rough start on the front nine, but battled real hard on the back to post a 42. Water came into play on almost every hole and she had a few errant shots on the front. But as a true number one player does, she fought hard and stayed very tough mentally to finish the round strong.” Victoria Hager added a 102 for the Vikings and Kennedy Hilley a 107. “Victoria, Kennedy, and Bryonna (Barton) also battled back after a few tough holes,” Kutch. “They are competitors and always give such a strong effort every time they go out there. The depth at number three, four and five was a huge advantage to the team score.” Kutch said he through hits team’s practice round at Pigeon Creek last Saturday was key. “The weather was almost identical and I think we came into this round with an edge,” said Kutch. Wayland’s Ali Martus, Holland Christian’s Bre Luurtsema and Hamilton’s Taylor Johnson were the three individual state qualifiers from the regional. Martus shot a 92, Luurtsema a 95 and Johnson a 100. Behind Wieringa for South Christian, Arancha Baron had the day’s second-best score at 91. Bridget Hemingway added a 95 and Kelsey Ballast scored a 103. Grand Rapids Christian got a 95 from Rachel Harkema, a 103 from Marissa David, a 104 from Emma DeWitt and a 114 from Anna Prince. Grace Bolt added a 117, which was 16 shots better than the fifth score from Holland Christian. Behind the top four teams, Wayland shot a 422, Unity Christian 423, Zeeland West 435, Allegan 435, Grand Rapids Catholic Central 437, Hamilton 444 and Thornapple Kellogg 468. Sandra Gerou led TK with a 108. Amber VanMeter was second on the team with a 115. Hannah Lamberg added a 121 and Maria Pamplona a 124. by Mae Johnson helped Portland inch closer to the Vikings at the end of the first set, but after the Vikings saw a 24-19 lead slip to 2422 Wieland flipped up a set for Emily Kuth that she was able to put down for the final point. Strong service runs by the Vikings’ Jordan Kietzman and Olivia Davis helped Lakewood push its lead from 11-10 to 20-11 in the middle of the second set. Davis also stepped up and got the Vikings off to a 4-0 start with a run that included an ace at the beginning of set number three, and then she added a few big kills to keep her team in front throughout the set. A tip by Wieland that found an opening in the Raider defense scored the final point for the Vikings. “Portland played very hard,” Lakewood head coach Kellie Rowland said. “They played well all day. They took it to Wiliamston. They played very hard. We had to make some changes against them to keep them off speed. “We forced them in so then we could go deep on them. We got them into one-on-one situations, because they’re not singley going to stop our hitters, so we forced them into one-on-one. Brooke (Wieland) keeps everyone on edge because you don’t know what she’s going to do with that ball. We even solo blocked at one point, and pulled everybody off to pick up tips. Those types of little things.” Kutch led the Viking attack against the Raiders, with 17 kills and added 17 digs. Davis finished with 15 kills and four aces. Wieland, who had 31 assists, did her best to push the attack. “When our big hitters can get on top of the block they aren’t stopped very often. The quicker our offense is, the better it works,” said Wieland. Lakewood also got 19 digs from Beth Swim meet to go pink in cancer fight In observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Thornapple Kellogg/Hastings High School girls swim team will use its meet on Tuesday, Oct. 23 as an opportunity to raise awareness and funds to donate to the American Cancer Society. The meet, which begins at 6 p.m. at the Hastings Community Education and Recreation Center, will feature the team and its Eaton Rapids High School competitors wearing pink ribbons tied to their suits and the names of family members and friends who have struggled with breast cancer written on their arms and legs. The names of those who have been affected by breast cancer will also be announced at the meet. The girls on both teams have been collecting donations and there will also be a special contest involved pink toy ducks and the sale of special shirts designed by Lexi Sensiba, a previous captain of the TK/Hastings team. Fans are also encouraged to help the battle against cancer to wear pink. Call anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads 269-945-9554 give this team credit. They keep their chins up. They’re ready when I need them.” In the Vikings’ 25-9. 25-18, 25-14 win over Lansing Catholic in the semifinals Kutch led the attack with 13 kills. Wieland had eight kills, as well as 26 assists. They both had eight digs. Tingley led the Viking defense with 12 digs and also had four aces. Davis finished with five aces, two blocks and six kills. Lakewood also got six kills from Reynhout and four blocks from Shook. Williamston topped Lansing Catholic in the match for third place on the day, while Corunna beat Stockbridge to finish in fifth place. Lakewood starts play in the CAAC Cup at home tonight. Charlotte takes advantage of early mistakes by Lakewood by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Orioles didn’t move the ball very far in the first half, but they didn’t have to. Charlotte’s varsity football team scored a 42-7 victory over Lakewood in the Vikings final home game of the season Friday. Charlotte scored 35 points in the first half, 14 in the opening quarter and another 21 in the second, but had less than 200 yards of offense at the break. “We had two turnovers on kickoffs. They had two drives right away that started inside our 30. They had less than 200 yards of offense in the first half, and they had 35 points. We can’t make those mistakes,” said Lakewood head coach Nick Boucher. Lakewood did pick up its play in the second half, getting the lone points of the third quarter on a 6-yard touchdown run by quarterback Alex Potter. Potter as 4-of-11 passing for 27 yards. He was intercepted once. Zach Kilbourn led the Lakewood offense with ten rushes for 66 yards. The Vikings had just 75 yards on the ground. Kilbourn also had two receptions for 15 yards. The Viking defense was led by Lars Pyrzinski, who had 11 tackles. Kilbourn had six tackles and Paul Hager had six too. Ryan Bartolacci was 6-of-10 passing for Charlotte, for 139 yards and three touchdowns. He tossed touchdown passes to Latrell Levanduski, Anthony Charameda and Blane Heisler. Charameda also rushed 20 times for 104 yards and two scores. Levanduski added six rushes for 41 yards and the Orioles’ other touchdown. “They are a good team and we came out flat,” Boucher said. The Vikings will do everything they can this week to make sure that doesn’t happen Friday when they travel to take on the rival Bulldogs. Lakewood is now 1-8 on the season. The Bulldogs are 2-6 after a 44-14 loss to Leslie Friday night. Turnovers and their returns put Lions in big hole at G-A Galesburg-Augusta scored three touchdowns, on plays of 82, 86 and 71 yards within a seven minutes span in the second quarter. That killed any momentum the Maple Valley varsity football team had built up between its homecoming victory last week and that point in this Friday’s contest. The Rams went on to top the visiting Lions 35-8. Richie Waite scored on an 82-yard run for the Rams with eight minutes left in the second quarter, putting the first points of the night up on the scoreboard. Lion quarterback Beau Johnson had his only two passes of the night picked off. Luke Ragotzy returned one 86 yards for a touchdown with just under six minutes left in the first half. Waite returned the next one 71 yards for a score 1:09 before the break. Waite added a 38-yard touchdown run early in the third quarter, then Ragotzy capped off the scoring for the Rams, hauling in a three-yard touchdown pass from Jordan Born. Dylan Kennedy scored the Lions’ lone touchdown on a 44-yard run with 6:09 left in the game. Ryan Nisse added the extra-point kick for Maple Valley. Born also had two passes picked off, but neither Austin Gonser or Tommy Mudge were able to advance theirs like the Rams had. The Lions outgained the Rams on offense, 291 yards to 245. Maple Valley got 276 yards on the ground. Garrett Miller led the way with eight rushes for 96 yards. Kennedy carried it 14 times for another 64 yards. Anthony Mahler added four rushes for 44 yards, and completed his one pass attempt in the contest for 15 yards to Nisse. The Rams’ attack was a bit more balanced, getting 154 yards rushing and 91 passing. Born was 4-of-7 for the 91 yards. Kyle Mallwitz had a 32-yard reception, and Waite had a 33-yard catch and run. Waite finished with 14 rushes on the night, for 102 yards. Sean Kerney added ten carries for 33 yards. Matt Wehr led the Lion defense with ten tackles. Diego Pesina had seven and Tommy Mudge had four. Waite had nine tackles and Mallwitz nine for the Rams. The Lions are now 3-5 in the Kalamazoo Valley Association this season. The Rams improve to 2-6. Maple Valley closes out the regular season with a trip to Schoocraft Friday. The Eagles are 8-0, ranked second in the state in Division six, and they clinched at least a share of the conference championship with a 42-7 win at Delton Kellogg Friday night. Bowling Scores Tuesday Mixed B.C. Red Cross 19; Boyce Milk Haulers 17.5; Hurless Machine 16; Hometown Lumber 16; J-Bar Antique Tractors 15. High Games - Ray B. 232; George H. 213; SIS 191; Dawn W. 191; Dan W. 171; Sharon B. 170; Becky R. 157; Melvin B. 146; Rebecca G. 146. High Series - George H. 564; Ray B. 524; Dawn W. 477. Monday Mixerettes Dewey’s Auto Body 19-5; Kent Oil 17-7; Dean’s Dolls 13-11; Nashville Chiropractic 11-13; Creekside Growers 11-13. Good Games and Series - B. Hathaway 181-457; S. Dunham 160-464; D. Snyder 196539; V. Carr 221-587; B. Anders 156; J. Alflen 177-509; J. Rice 190-488; L. Elliston 194-567. Senior Citizens Sun Risers 16-8; Three Gals & a Guy 15-9; Usedtobe #1 14-10; Butterfingers 13.5-10.5; Just Having Fun 11.5-12.5; M&M’s 11-13; Kuempel 11-13; Early Risers 10-14; Ward’s Friends 9-15; King Pins 9-15. Women’s Good Games and Series - M. Wieland 191-487; R. Murphy 192-515; G. Scobey 178-469; E. Dunham 175-452; N. Boniface 170. Men’s Good Games and Series - L. Dunn 209-494; L. Brandt 201; R. McDonald 207570; C. Atkinson 186-456; H. Gibson 150433; B. Akers 190-529; R. Walker 162-500; M. Saldivar 187; G. Bennett 175-436. Wednesday PM Court Side 19-5; Delton Suds 15-9; Boniface Construction 14-10; Hair Care 1410; Eye & ENT 10-14. Good Games and Series - J. Rice 217-553; T. Christopher 178; S. Stevens 122-349; J. Pettengill 131-378; P. Shellington 157-415; S. Beebe 181; K. Moore 145-332; N. Boniface 169. Thursday Angels Riverfront Vin. Ser. 16.5-7.5; Moore’s Apts. 15-9; Varney’s Const. 14-10; Hastings Bowl 13.5-6.5; Cathy’s Cut & Curl 13-11; Miller Farm Repair 10-10; D.J. on the Roll 8-16. High Games and Series - C. Gdula 165; C. Miller 194; J. Moore 201; C. Purdum 176; B. Noteboom 168; A. Castelein 219; W. Barker 151; D. Curtis 173; C. Hurless 167; J. Gasper 193; Ca. Shellenbarger 156; Colleen S. 211553; M. Weiler 132; B. Brown 138; J. WOod 149; C. Cooper 191; N. Taylor 162; L. Kendall 156. �Page 16 — Thursday, October 18, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Schoolcraft clinches KVA championship in Delton by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Panthers frustrated the Eagles for a while - just not long enough. Schoolcraft’s varsity football team improved to 8-0 on the season and clinched a share of the Kalamazoo Valley Association championship at Delton Kellogg Friday with a 42-7 win over the host Panthers. The Eagles posed for pictures on the north end of the field, while the 0-8 Panthers walked off the south end ready to start working on a win to get their first victory of the season next Friday. Delton ends the season at Olivet. “Gotta keep working. Gotta keep working to get better,” said Delton Kellogg head coach Ryan Bates after the game. “We just played absolutely the best team in our league. They’ve already beat the big boys. They’ve got Hackett left. We knew we were in a ball game coming in. Our goal was to try to control the clock as much as we could in the first half so we could keep their offense off the field.” The Panthers did that, but the Eagles don’t need much clock to score. Delton Kellogg’s first drive ate up nearly half of the first quarter, but ended in a missed 32-yard field goal attempt. Delton Kellogg’s second drive ate up nearly five minutes and ended in a three-yard touchdown run by Cole Ritchie and an extra-point kick by Cole Mabie. But in between those two long Delton drives, the Eagles moved 80 yards in four plays. Blake Zemek finished off the touchdown drive with a 15-yard run and Brennan Vaughn added the extra-point. The Eagle drive took just 51 seconds “We made two goals in the second half,” Bates said. “Our two goals were to hold them to seven points in the second half and put a couple points in. We held them to seven in the second half, but we just came up shot on the offensive end.” Clark got the only touchdown of the second half, finishing with four for the night, ending the Eagles’ first drive of the second half with a two-yard TD plunge. “I thought our offense was able to move the ball on them early. I thought they made some defensive adjustments that really slowed us down,” Bates said. “They were able to send some backers and got our gaps filled up and it was tough for us to be able to move the ball a little bit towards the end of the first half. We had some turnovers that hurt us, and they’re a good football team. They’re coming. They’re the best defensive football team in our league.” Ritchie had 15 rushes for 51 yards to lead the Delton Kellogg offense. “Cole Ritchie is just a beast,” Bates said. “He’s a good hard runner. He’s a good line- backer. He’s one of our captains. He’s a hardcore kid. He’s a good solid runner and he was a tight end for us last year because we needed a tight end. He volunteered to play it and played tight end all season. We needed a running back this year and he said I’ll play it. He’s just that type of kid who does what we ask him to do.” Justice Kimbrue had 26 yards on 13 rushes, and Kenmark Maligat ran hard for 22 yards on five carries. Josh Arkwright completed the only pass for Delton, for 20 yards to Ritchie. “It’s tough. It’s always tough when you have this type of a season,” Bates said. “The kids keep coming back to practice every day and we have Saturday practices. They don’t miss any practices. They just keep working and they have as good of an attitude as you can with a season like this and we just keep working on playing together play as a family play for each other.” Schoolcraft will look to clinch the outright KVA title when it plays host to Maple Valley this Friday. Panther running back Kenmark Maligat holds on to the football as he races ahead for a 12-yard gain during the second quarter against Schoolcraft Friday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Schoolcraft running back Benny Clark looks for room to run as Delton Kellogg’s Hunter Smith (52), Justice Kimbrue (3) and Dakota Warren (50) give chase during the second quarter Friday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Lions win last regular season game, host district final Sat. Maple Valley’s varsity boys’ soccer team is hosting a Division 3 boys’ soccer district tournament this week. The Lions had an opening round bye and were set to open district play at Lakewood High School yesterday against the Vikings, who beat Portland 9-1 in the opening round Monday. Stockbridge beat Olivet 5-0, and Lansing Catholic topped Leslie 4-0 in the in the two other opening round games of the district tournament Monday. They were set to meet at Stockbridge for their district semifinal Wednesday. The district championship game is scheduled for Saturday at 10 a.m. at Fuller Street Field in Nashville. Maple Valley closed out the regular season by scoring its second win of the year against Bellevue Thursday. The Lions won 3-2, breaking a 2-2 tie with a second half goal to win it. The Eagles’ next drive, after Ritchie’s touchdown, took two plays and just under 30 seconds. Tom Hurst completed a 40-yard touchdown pass to Zach Decker for a 13-7 Schoolcraft lead. Delton fumbled the ensuing kick-off, and Schoolcraft took over at the Delton 22-yard line. An offside penalty on Delton moved the Eagles five yards closer, then Benny Clark rushed 17 yards for a touchdown on the next play. The Eagles added a two-point conversion pass to make it 21-7. That was only half the touchdowns the Eagles would score in the second quarter as they pushed their lead to 35-7 by the half. Schoolcraft had a two-play, 76-yard drive that ended in a 60-yard touchdown run by Clark and a five-play, 43-yard drive that ended in an 8-yard Clark TD run. Clark finished the night with seven carries for 160 yards. Delton Kellogg running back Cole Ritchie drags Schoolcraft’s Nick Cakmakci as he runs through a hole in the line during the first quarter Friday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Saxon soccer shut out in districts by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Saxon senior Maxwell Clark left the field with an injury with just under 19 minutes to play in the second half of Monday’s Division 2 District Opener at Grand Rapids Christian High School. He was out about ten minutes. When he returned to the field, it took only about a minute and a half for him to get two very good scoring chances. One came on a leftfooted shot from the top of the 18 that the Eagle keeper snagged. The next chance came after fellow senior Ian Beck raced up the left side and put the ball into Clark who chipped a shot just over the Eagle net. That’s how things went all night for the Saxons in a 4-0 season-ending loss to Grand Rapids Christian. The Eagles buried their best chances in the net. The Saxons best chances just missed their mark. Clark had shot go off the football crossbar, just behind the soccer crossbar at the south end of the field in the first half. Hastings’ Tanner Roderick rifled a shot that was deflected just wide. Alex Cherry deflected a crossing pass from Roderick just wide. Ben Kolanowski and Adam Hyrsl closed in on the Eagle net once together late in the second half, and Hyrsl had a hard shot go just wide. The Saxons were just inches from getting a goal with four minutes left. Roderick booted Hastings’ Matt Johnson pushes the ball through the midfield as Grand Rapids Christian’s Brian Holwerda gives chase midway through the first half Monday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) October 20, 2012 77571809 Hastings’ Ben Kolanowski is upended by the Eagles’ Tony Dykhouse as he goes up for a header during the second half of Monday’s district opener at Grand Rapids Christian High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) a corner kick into the middle. Cherry found it and hit a shot that would up trickling towards the goal-line after it went through the crowd in front of the net. Christian midfielder Zachary DeWindt jumped over at the last second and cleared it off the line. “We fought throughout the game,” said Hastings head coach Ben Conklin. “I don’t think we gave up. It just wasn’t there for us tonight. Those couple early goals of theirs really set us back on our heels. We kind of fought back in the first half, almost had one. Second half we still played pretty strong, we just didn’t get the ball cleared like we like and we weren’t able to keep the possession like we’re used to.” Christian scored the game’s first goal in the fifth minute, with Mpindi crashing the net and heading in a corner kick from teammate Jacob Witte. The score stayed 1-0 until the 25th minute, when Tyler Romero sent a free kick from midfield to the front of the Saxon net. It bounced twice in the box, sitting up nicely for David Plantinga to turn and blast a shot by Hastings keeper Travis Mathews. It was 2-0 at the half. Grand Rapids Christian added a goal by Gabe Mitogo in the 54th minute and one by David Urena in the 64th minute to seal the win. Urena and Ian Adams earned the second-half assists for the Eagles. On both goals the Eagles found space moving the ball through the middle of the Saxon defense. Grand Rapids Christian advanced to take on Lowell in the district semifinals at Lowell Wednesday. The Red Arrows opened postseason play with a 4-0 victory over Thornapple Kellogg Monday. Nick Proeske scored both goals for Lowell. “It’s going to be difficult next season, losing 11 seniors and two foreign-exchange student seniors, so 13 seniors overall out of a team of 20,” Conklin said after Monday’s loss to the Eagles. “It’s going to be difficult, but I think we’ve got the talent coming up that we can still put together a good squad, especially with the juniors coming back that have been together for a long time.” Hastings ends this season with a record of 11-9-1. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 18, 2012 — Page 17 Cougars clinch share of OK Gold title in Hastings by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Saxons may have been able to come back from a one touchdown deficit in the final nine minutes Friday, but a two touchdown deficit was too much against the Cougars’ defense. Grand Rapids Catholic Central improved to 8-0, and clinched at least a share of the OK Gold Conference championship, with a 28-14 victory over the Saxons in Hastings. The Cougars’ Ryheem Stokes started the game with a 54-yard touchdown run in the first quarter, and basically ended it with a 75yard kickoff return for a touchdown in the fourth quarter. In between, he added a oneyard touchdown run in the third quarter. “They spread it out and ran the ball on us,” said Hastings head coach Fred Rademacher. “We didn’t tackle particularly well. They had two or three big plays plays. when you give up big plays to a gifted athletes it’s tough.” On the other side, the Saxons weren’t getting the big plays they needed. Hastings had just 250 yards of offense, 205 of it coming on 60 rushes. Stephen Shaffer had a solid game, rushing 29 times for 104 yards, but was held to 3.6 yards per carry. The Saxons pride themselves on being able to complete long, methodical drives down the field. Against Catholic Central though, it wasn’t easy to sustain those drives. “They’ve got a great scheme and they’re athletically very gifted and very physical,” Rademacher said. “They’ve got a great scheme. They’re very solid with what they did. They stayed on assignment and didn’t run around and get confused.” After Stokes’ opening TD and kicker Mwenda Righa’s extra-point kick put the Cougars up 7-0, Hastings took its only lead of the game one a 26-yard touchdown run and a two-point conversion run by Shaffer in the second quarter. That TD came on just the second play of a drive that started at the Cougar 33-yard line. Catholic Central answered before the half with a 17-yard touchdown pass from Jon Marosi to Nick Marosi, then added another Righa extra-point to lead 14-8 at the break. Stokes scored the only touchdown of the third quarter, on a one-yard run. Hastings pulled to within 21-14 on a fouryard touchdown run by Jon French about three minutes into the fourth quarter, but that score was quickly followed by Stokes’ kickoff return for a score. “I’m proud of our kids,” Rademacher said. “We played tough. We never gave up.” Stokes finished the game with 17 rushes for 174 yards. Jon Marosi was 4-of-6 passing for 55 yards. Chase Huisman completed two of his four passes for Hastings, for 45 yards. Michael Eastman had both the Saxon receptions. On the ground, French added 69 yards on 14 carries. Michael Hart led the Saxon defense with six tackles. Eastman had six too. James Lee added five tackles. Miguel Arjona intercepted a pass, and Kenny Cross and Logan Bleam each had a fumble recovery. Hastings didn’t turn the ball over in the game. Hastings running back Stephen Shaffer looks for a hole in the Catholic Central defense on a first half run Friday night. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The Saxons are now 6-2 overall, and will close out the regular season against South Christian in Byron Center. The Saxons and Sailors are tied for second place in the OK Gold standings at 3-1, behind the 4-0 Cougars who take on Wayland Friday. Saxons going back to state golf finals DK girls finish as KVA runners-up Hackett Catholic Central and Delton Kellogg both had their top five earn conference honors Tuesday at the Kalamazoo Valley Association Championship hosted by Hackett at Portage West Middle School. The Fighting Irish had four girls earn allconference, and one honorable mention allconference performer, clinching the league championship. Delton Kellogg’s varsity girls’ cross country team capped off a runner-up season in the KVA with two all-conference performers and three honorable mention allconference runners. Christi Boze led the Panthers, finishing 12th in 20 minutes flat. Hackett’s leader was just ahead of her, as Lucy Ankenbauer was fourth in 19 minutes 54 seconds. Pennfield’s Audria Bornamann was far and away the league champion, finishing in 19:11. Kalamazoo Christian’s Kate McLain was second in 19:48 and Jessica Rushford third in 19:52. The top 14 runners earned all-conference honors, while finishers 15-21 were honorable mention all-conference. Hackett ended the race with 58 points. Delton Kellogg was second with 71, followed by Olivet 87, Schoolcraft 112, Pennfield 119, Kalamazoo Christian 134, Maple Valley 159, Galesburg-Augusta 188 and Constantine 211. Delton Kellogg also had Megan Grimes 13th in 21:39, Sarah Rendon 16th in 21:52, Sammi Cleary 19th in 22:05 and Marcie Stevens 22nd in 22:28. Behind Rushford for Maple Valley, Hanna Kyle was 31th in 23:15, Emma McGlocklin 36th in 23:40, McKayla Lamance 40th in 23:57 and Elizabeth Wetzel 54th in 25:59. Hackett also won the boys’ meet Tuesday, with 52 points, edging Schoolcraft which finished with 54 points. Kalamazoo Christian was third with 82 points, followed by Maple Valley 83, Constantine 114, Delton Kellogg 166, Parchment 175, Olivet 187 and Pennfield 247. Schoolcraft’s Zach Wehner and Kalamazoo Christian’s Dough Hollett battled for the individual title, as the only two guys to finish the race in less than 17 minutes. Whener won it, in 16:21, with Hollett finishing in 16:24. Schoolcraft’s Matt Ring was third in 17:07. Delton Kellogg’s Jarryd Calhoun earned all-conference honors with his fifth-place time of 17:22. The Delton team also had Zach Haas 21st in 18:20, Alex Stevens 44th in 20:18, Dylan Kelley 46th in 20:26 and Brock Mueller 50th in 20:38. Maple Valley was one point out of third place, with Kyle Brumm 12th in 17:54, Andrew Brighton 13th in 17:56, Micah Bromley 16th in 18:04, Austin Rood 17th in 18:08 and Sam Benedict 25th in 18:38. Saxon spikers playing pretty well The O-K Gold Conference doesn’t get any tougher than what the Saxons and Trojans will face tonight (Oct. 18). Hastings and Thornapple Kellogg travel to South Christian for a varsity volleyball quad where the Trojans and Saxons will not face the Sailors as well as the Wayland Wildcats. The Saxons and Trojans just met up Tuesday night in Hastings, where Thornapple Kellogg’s girls scored a 22-25, 28-26, 25-18, 25-21 victory over the Saxons.. Hastings head coach Val Slaughter said that her team “played great volleyball.” The defense led the way for Hastings, with Nikki Redman recording 13 digs and Taylor Warner nine. Rachel Quillen and Grace Bosma had three blocks each. Corrie Osterink led the front row attack for the Saxons with 12 kills, Quillen and Bosma both added another five each. Erin Goggins The Hastings varsity volleyball team celebrates its championship after a 4-0 day at the Leslie Invitational Saturday. had 18 assists and led the Saxon team with three aces for the night. Hastings was on a roll coming into the match, having won the championship Saturday at the Leslie tournament with a 4-0 record for the day. It wasn’t all smooth sailing though, as the Saxons dropped the first set in each of their first three matches. The Saxons defeated Springport 23-25, 2523, 15-10, Michigan Center 20-25, 25-19, 256, Vandercook Lake 23-25, 25-16, 25-7 and finally Leslie 25-16, 25-15. Slaughter said her team played its best match of the day in final win over the host Blackhawks. Quillen had a fantastic day at the net for Hastings, with 30 kills and seven solo blocks. She also had four assists. Quillen had a team-high six aces. Redman and Goggins added five aces each. Goggins finished the day with 53 assists. Osterink chipped in 19 kills and Bosma 13. Bosma and Christine Maurer added three blocks each. Sarah Taylor added another 12 kills. Warner had 19 digs. The Saxon team is now 28-18-5 for the season. At the first OK Gold Conference quad of the season last Thursday, the Saxons took on Ottawa Hills and Grand Rapids Catholic Central in Hastings. Hastings topped the Bengals 25-10, 25-6, 25-10 with Redman recording eight aces, Quillen seven kills, Taylor six kills and Goggins 14 assists and four aces. The Saxons played a tough first set against the Cougars, but wound up falling in three 2826, 25-15, 25-10. Osterink had six kills and Bosma five for Hastings. Goggins had 13 assists. Quillen finished with five blocks while Bosma added four. Ally Owen had a team-high four aces. Golf Course in Battle Creek Friday and Saturday. The Red Hawks shot a 392. Coldwater was fourth with a 400, followed by Three Rivers 403, Otsego 407, Vicksburg 407, Harper Creek 445, Stevensville Lakeshore 453, Sturgis 494 and Niles 528. Plainwell’s Darby Wagner was the day’s individual champion, with an 81. Marshall’s Amanda Genise was second with an 84. Behind Wagner for the Trojans, Katlin O’Connell shot a 97, Catherine Lemus a 106 and Abbie Losiewski a 107. Marshall added Sammi Price’s 92, Annie Cape’s 106 and Jill Puckett’s 110 to Genise’s score. The three individual state qualifiers from the regional were Harper Creek’s Jozlin Johnson who shot an 87, Three Rivers’ Holly Hines who fired an 88, and Coldwater’s Anna Wendorf who shot a 95 and then had to win a play-off with Vicksburg’s Abbey Stasik for the final spot. Parchment rallies in regulation, then beats Delton in shoot-out Delton Kellogg lost two two-goal games to Parchment during the Kalamazoo Valley Association season. The Delton varsity boys’ soccer team pulled closer Tuesday, but not ahead. Parchment won the teams’ Division 3 District Opener, in Parchment, 4-3 in a shootout. The host Panthers survived by the skin of their teeth. Delton had the lead three different times in the ball game. Lucas Hansen scored all three goals for Delton Kellogg during regulation, including one with 13 minutes and 35 seconds to play that put his team up 3-2. Delton Kellogg held that one-goal lead into the final minute of regulation when Parchment’s Brandon Linglead found the back of the net with just 16 seconds left. The teams then played through two scoreless overtime halves before heading to the shoot-out. Each of Hansen’s three goals gave Delton the lead in the game. He scored his first in the sixth minute. Delton held that lead for more than 25 minutes, until Travis Lind scored for Parchment 8:20 before the half. Hansen scored early in the second half too, to put his team up 2-1, but Charlie Eaton answered five minutes later to tie the game again. Parchment outshot Delton 16-15 in the contest. Delton Kellogg closed out the regular season with a 4-2 loss at Lawton. Cole Mabie and Keith Malachowski scored the two goals for Delton Kellogg. Delton Kellogg head coach Alan Mabie said he was impressed with his goalkeeper despite the four goals against. He did make 12 saves. “Landon Grizzle stepped up his game with two of our starting defenders hampered with injuries,” coach Mabie said. “His play kept us in the game. We have played six games in the last two weeks and had five starters get hurt. Their replacements are doing well to fill their positions. Lawton’s players played a well organized game.” SAXON WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE Complete online schedule at: www.hassk12.org THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18 4:15 pm 4:15 pm 4:30 pm 5:00 pm 5:00 pm 5:00 pm 6:00 pm 6:30 pm Boys Girls Boys Girls Girls Girls Girls Boys MS MS Fresh. Varsity JV Fresh. Varsity JV Cross Co. Cross Co. Football Volleyball Volleyball Volleyball Swimming Football Gold Division @ Hastings Gold Division @ Hastings South Christian HS Quad @ South Christian Gold Quad Wayland Union HS Quad G.R. Creston South Christian HS H H H A A A H H 7:00 pm Boys Varsity Football State Finals @ Bedford Valley CC South Christian HS TKMS 7A Conf. @ MTK A State Finals @ A Bedford Valley CC MONDAY, OCTOBER 22 4:15 pm Girls 7th B 4:15 pm Girls 8th B Volleyball Volleyball 7B Conf. @ HMS 8B Conf. @ HMS H H TUESDAY, OCTOBER 23 6:00 pm Girls Varsity Swimming Eaton Rapids HS H THURSDAY, OCTOBER 25 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 19 10:00 am Girls Varsity Golf 9:00 am Girls 7th A Volleyball 10:00 am Girls Varsity Golf A A SATURDAY, OCTOBER 20 TBA Girls Varsity Swimming Ottawa Hills HS A Ottawa Hills Inv. 9:00 am Girls JV Volleyball Sturgis HS Sturgis Invite A 9:00 am Girls Fresh. Volleyball Godwin Heights HS A Godwin Heights Invitational 9:00 am Girls 8th A Volleyball Wayland MS 8A Conf. A @ Wayland HASTINGS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS Contact Nancy 945-2742 or hastingsathleticboosters@gmail.com to sponsor the schedule 5:00 pm Girls Varsity Volleyball Hopkins HS Scrimmage H 6:00 PM Girls Varsity Swimming Ottawa Hills HS A Times and dates subject to change Thanks to This Week’s Sponsor: PRECISION AUTO BODY REPAIR, INC. 819 E. Railroad, Hastings (269) 948-9472 Good Luck Saxons! 77571764 Hastings running back Kenny Cross gets a hand-off from quarterback Chase Huisman in the backfield during Friday night’s OK Gold Conference contest with Grand Rapids Catholic Central inside Baum Stadium at Johnson Field. (Photo by Dan Goggins) There were only seven golfers under 70 in the challenging wet, windy conditions at Angles Cross Golf Course in Vicksburg Wednesday. Three of them were from Hastings. Hastings’ varsity girls’ golf team won its second consecutive Division 2 Regional championship, outscoring runner-up Plainwell 367 to 391. The Saxon team had three girls among the top seven scorers and a fourth in the top 20. Kylee Nemetz led the way, shooting an 87 which put her in a tie for third place individually. Teammates Lindy Kloosterman and Katie Brown tied for sixth place with a pair of 89s. Hastings also had Amanda Sarhatt finish 19th with a 102. Courtney Rybiski had the Saxons’ fifth score, a 117. Marshall was the third team from the regional to qualify for the Division 3 State Finals, which will be held at Bedford Valley �Page 18 — Thursday, October 18, 2012 — The Hastings Banner TKHS girls get first conference title since 2007 by Brett Bremer Sports Editor It wasn’t far into the girls’ race when the rest of the leaders let South Christian sophomore Alexis Miller go at Tuesday’s O-K Gold Conference Meet at Johnson Park. Miller won the race in 19 minutes 9.0 seconds. Thornapple Kellogg sophomore Melissa Winchester was second in 19:18.9. When Miller pulled away, Winchester still had her goal in sight, beating Hastings’ Trista Straube, which she managed to do for the first time. The Saxon junior was third in 19:25.6. “Winchester was just haunting her the entire race,” said Hastings head coach Steve Collins. Winchester wasn’t even sure she was going to run this fall. She followed a bit begrudgingly in the footsteps of sisters Rebecca and Allyson and brother Keith her freshman year, all cross country runners at TK who have gone out to collegiate careers. It was August before she decided she wanted to return to the team for her sophomore season. Thornapple Kellogg girls’ head coach Tammy Benjamin said she didn’t do anything to try and convince Winchester to return. “She had to come to that decision on her own and she decided she wanted to run. That was good. A good decision on her part,” Benjamin said. “I just kind of missed it, because I missed out on camp. Practices are fun with the team,” Winchester said. The team has been happy to have her. The Trojans clinched their first O-K Gold Conference championship since 2007 Tuesday, winning the conference meet by 20 points over runner-up South Christian. The Trojans finished with 27 points, thanks to five girls in the top eight and seven in the top 18. South Christian ended the day with 47 The Saxons’ Ariel Moore cruises along at Johnson Park during Tuesday afternoon’s O-K Gold Conference Meet. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Like Winchester, Walter was in second for much of the race behind Catholic Central’s Matt Lennon. But he was never too far behind. “(Lennon) went out fast,” Walter said. “My plan was to pass him at the one-mile mark, but he ended up holding his pace so then I ended up getting him at the two-mile. “After that, the gap just kept increasing from there.” “It was right after the hill. He had used a lot of energy on that hill, then he looked back at me and I knew. That’s when I knew he was falling off.” “We thought the race was probably going to start solving itself right after the first mile,” said TK boys’ coach Josh Reynolds, “but for it to go all the way to the two-mile mark and for David to be several meters back up until that point I think that’s a good lesson to take into the regional meet which is what we’re going to need and also into the state meet. We’re going to be tested there, and he’s going to have to have that character to dig deep to know that even if there’s a barrier in front of him he has got the strength and he’s got the inner-drive to take that risk to jump to that next group.” Reynolds said that Walter really started learning those lessons freshman year. “It still goes back to him being willing his first two years to work hard and be uncomfortable under upperclassmen,” Reynolds said. “I think it still kind of goes back to that, when we had Carl Olsen and Dustin Brummel and David was the underclassmen and was willing to go out and run with those upperclassmen and run as long as he could right on their heels and keep putting in that time. That Thornapple Kellogg’s Melissa Winchester leads a pack that includes (back from left) Hastings’ Trista Straube and South Christian’s Alexis Miller and Megan Schwartz early on during Tuesday’s O-K Gold Conference Meet at Johnson Park. (Photo by Brett Bremer) points, followed by Grand Rapids Catholic 42 points, clinching the conference title for the Cougars. Wayland was second with 45 Central 79, Hastings 93 and Wayland 125. The TK boys had something to celebrate points, followed by South Christian 69, too, with junior David Walter winning the Thornapple Kellogg 86, Hastings 105 and Ottawa Hills 178. boys’ race in 17:27.4. The TK girls celebrated by waving an orange “Middleville” flag high above them as they ran around and cheered during the junior varsity race. “I said to Mel, ‘if we can wrap this up tomorrow that gives me one conference championship with all the Winchester girls. Let’s get after it,’” Benjamin said. “And Casey (Lawson) is so excited to have a team conference championship. It’s always fun when you’re winning, but when your team wins its so much better than when just you have individual success. Team successes are so much better. This is a great group. “I’ll enjoy that for the rest of the day, for sure.” Lawson was fourth in 20:02.7. TK also had Olivia Lamberg sixth in 20:31.6, Janie Noah seventh in 21:09.5 and Shelbi Shepherd eighth in 21:23.6. The six and seven runners for the Trojan team were Bryn Beyer who was 12th in 21:40.9 and Taylor Ward who was 18th in 22:15.1. Straube was one of two top ten finishers for Hastings. Ariel Moore was ninth in 21:23.9. “Ariel did very well,” said coach Collins. “She came through with a nice race. She’s been injured, with a back issue, and she put together a good race. She’s trying to work her way up in the conference for all-conference and she came through with a great race today.” Hastings also had Rachel Rimer 22nd in Hastings’ Brandon Gray gets to the finish line just ahead of Thornapple Kellogg’s 22:42.8, Olivia Rose 28th in 23:06.3 and Wyatt DeLeeuw at the end of Tuesday’s O-K Gold Conference Meet at Johnson Park. Maria Palacio 31st in 23:37.2. Catholic Central won the boys’ meet with (Photo by Brett Bremer) Joint Replacement Excellence AwardTM 2012 5 Star Award National Average 3 Stars The Joint Replacement Excellence Award recognizes hospitals for superior outcomes in knee and hip replacement or resurfacing. These surgeries involve removing and replacing a diseased joint with an artificial joint due to advanced arthritis. Your risk of complications and death from knee or hip replacement can be significantly lower at these nationally recognized hospitals. What is a Hip Replacement? Hip replacement surgery involves removing and replacing a diseased hip joint with an artificial hip joint. Hip replacement is usually performed to treat advanced arthritis of the hip. Research Hospital Ratings, Talk to Your Doctor All hospitals strive to offer great medical care—but some do a better job than others. Use Healthgrades to research hospital performance in hip replacement and talk to your doctor about what’s right for you. Serving the Communities of Barry County: 840 Cook Rd., Hastings, MI 49058 | Allegan County: 551 Linn St., Allegan, MI 49010 Ionia County: 537 W. Main St., Ionia, MI 48846 Your Orthopedic Specialists The physicians and staff of Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, P.C., would like to thank Barry County and the surrounding communities for giving us the opportunity and privilege to serve your orthopedic, phyysical therapy, and pain management needs. We feel it is a tremendous compliment that you have chosenn us and consider it an honor to give the best care that we possibly can. Phone: 269.945.9520 | Toll Free: 800.596.1005 Kenneth Merriman, M.D., A.B.O.S. Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, P.C. Eric Leep, D.O. 840 Cook Rd., Hastings, MI 49058 Visit us online, www.hoc-mi.com James Horton Jr., D.O. David Heeringa, D.O. 07611680 The Saxons’ Jake Miller works his way up the hill at Johnson Park during Tuesday afternoon’s O-K Gold Conference Meet. (Photo by Brett Bremer) has transferred into this year where now he’s a little more independent, but he’s learned those lessons of what uncomfortable feels like and knows that he can move past that.” Behind Walter, Daniel Vannette was 12th in 18:31.0, Austin LaVire 18th in 18:54.7, Conor Leach 24th in 19:10.4 and Joe Gaikema 31st in 19:54.0. Hastings was led by Ronnie Collins’ eighth-place finish. He came in at 18:23.9. It was a tough day for the Saxons. Ronnie had been third at the last couple league jamborees. Jake Miller, who had been the Saxons’ top runner for much of the year, was battling injury. He was fourth for the team, and 25th overall in 19:15.4. Hastings also had Chance Miller 16th in 18:41.9, Garrett Bowers 23rd in 19:06.8 and Brandon Gray 33rd in 20:04.1. The Trojans and Saxons will both head to Carson City-Crystal for their Division 2 Regional Meet Saturday (Oct. 27). Youngsters lead Lakewood girls’ team at the Color Run Belding won the boys’ and girls’ championships at Tuesday afternoon’s Saranac Color Run, as both teams put four runners in the top ten. Delton Kellogg had its girls’ team place fourth and the boys’ sixth. Lakewood’s girls were sixth and the boys ninth. Freshman Olivia Louthan led the Viking girls’ team, finishing 29th overall in 23 minutes 17.9 seconds. Two sophomores and two juniors took the other four top scoring places for Lakewood. Sophomore Anja Gimse was 39th in 24:18.5 and her classmate Brooke Stahl was 44th in 24:28.9. Junior Lindsey Tooker was 46th in 24:40.0 and her classmate Mycah Ridder was 48th in 24:48.5. Comstock Park senior Amanda Clancio won the race in 20:10.0. Delton Kellogg’s Christi Boze wasn’t too far behind Clancio, placing third in 20:29.1. Belding freshman Teresa Myles was second in 20:20.4. Behind Boze for Delton, Sarah Rendon was 18th in 22:13.9, Megan Grimes 21st in 22:41.0, Marcie Stevens 23rd in 22:52.0 and Sammi Cleary 32nd in 23:34.7. Belding finished with 42 points, ahead of Comstock Park 43, Saranac 66, Delton Kellogg 95, Fowler 120, Lakewood 182, Portland St. Patrick 186, Central Montcalm 233 and Bellevue NTS. Senior Traviss Wilkerson was 27th to lead the Lakewood boys’ team, finishing in 18:58.7. Junior Nolan Stoepker was 41st in 20:01.4. Lakewood’s other three scorers were freshmen, Ben Wakely 47th in 20:17.9, Tyler McDiarmid 49th in 20:31.7 and Treston McGarry 72nd in 23:42.2. Saranac senior Tim Young won the boys’ race in 16:06.6. Delton Kellogg had Jarryd Calhoun 13th in 17:57.5, Alex Stevens 48th in 20:25.3, Dylan Kelley 50th in 20:39.6, Brock Mueller 57th in 21:17.2 and Austin Tamez 58th in 21:17.8. The team title went to Belding’s boys with 33 points. Young’s Saranac team was second with 48 points, followed by Fowler 69, Creston 107, Central Montcalm 164, Comstock Park 189, Delton Kellogg 190, St. Patrick 193, Lakewood 196 and Bellevue NTS. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-10-25.pdf 3c2946dbc0a2078bcea64cfb86e2a72a PDF Text Text County rebonding saves taxpayers $1.4 million ‘Mayor Bob’ loved his city Saxons start playoffs against Plainwell See Story on Page 15 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 19 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 42 NEWS BRIEFS Free children’s concert planned Friday night Children and adults are invited to the free annual children’s concert by the Thornapple Wind Band and the Hastings Community Music School’s CMS Singers Friday, Oct. 26, at 7:30 p.m. in the Hastings High School lecture hall. Children are invited to dress up in their Halloween costumes and join in a costume parade during the concert. The CMS Singers will be performing “Here Comes Halloween” and “Have a Happy Halloween.” The band will be performing several pieces, including “Chillers and Thrillers” (themes of suspense by John Williams), “The March of Siamese Children” by Richard Rodgers, “Looney Tunes Overture,” a medley of Disney classics, and “Danse Macabre” by Saint Sans. The CMS Singers is made up of children in seconed through eighth grades from Hastings, Middleville and surrounding areas and is directed by Danielle Brower. The Thornapple Wind Band is directed by Dave Macquee and assistant director Sandi Wake of Middleville. All concert-goers are welcome to join the band members for refreshments at a reception following the concert. Pennock Health Services Dirty Dozen this Sunday Anyone looking for some good “clean” fun and an opportunity to help a good cause is encouraged to participate in the Pennock Health Services Dirty Dozen— 12 obstacles starting at 12 noon, Sunday, Oct. 28, at the corner of M-37 and M-43 highways. All proceeds from the event featuring a one-mile mini mud run and obstacle course will benefit Barry County United Way. Registration begins at 10 a.m. and the first of group of 12 participants will start the timed event at noon with the rest to follow in groups of 12 at two to five minute intervals. For more information call 269-838-4019. Pre-register online at www.pennockhealth.com. ‘Revelation to John’ topic of ILR classes “The Revelation to John” will be the topic of the next Institute for Learning in Retirement Class. Rev. Michael Anton will explore the final book of the biblical canon focusing on its original setting and literal or symbolic interpretation. The class will meet at the Kellogg Community College Fehsenfeld Center on West Gun Lake Road Wednesdays from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., Oct. 31 through Dec. 12. (No class Nov. 21). Fee information may be obtained or registration made by calling the KCC Fehsenfeld Center at 269 948 9500, ext. 2803. Fall leaf pickup begins Nov. 5 The Hastings Department of Public Services will begin its fall leaf pickup Monday, Nov. 5 in the Second and Third wards south of State Street. City crews will then finish the Second and Third wards north of State Street and move into the First Ward north of the Thornapple River. Crews will finish in the Fourth Ward from Broadway to the west city limits. Residents should place leaves near the curb, not in the street. BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, October 25, 2012 Terpening trial begins over alleged criminal sexual conduct by David DeDecker Staff Writer Michael Terpening, 33, is accused of numerous acts of criminal sexual conduct with underage boys at the Bellevue group home which he directed. Terpening has been free on bond since August, pending his trial which began on Monday, Oct. 22. The trial is expected to last two or three weeks. The Michigan Attorney General’s Office, represented by Assistant AG Angela Povilaitis is the prosecution for the case. In her opening statement, Povilaitis told the 16-person jury that Terpening is responsible for his decisions and actions, nobody else. “He had sufficient authority in every sense of the word,” said Povilaitis. “They knew they had nowhere to turn and he knew that...the kids knew he was in charge. He controlled their money and privileges. He could get them into trouble with their foster care workers or probation officers. He controlled their visits to court and to their friends. He controlled when they would see their families. He knew their personal histories - why they were in the system. He knew their vulnerabilities.” Povilaitis told the jury Terpening had staffed the group home, “The House Next Door” with family members and friends who rely on him for their livelihood. She said they knew they would support him and they would continue to support him no matter what occurred. She explained there were five victims who will testify during the course of the trial, all of whom are vulnerable young men placed under Terpening’s authority. “Remember this phrase in the course of the next few weeks,” said Povilaitis. “You are here because of the choices and decisions that Mr. Terpening made. He will focus on the kids and their vulnerabilities and their troubles - their issues. Make no mistake, it is the People of the State of Michigan versus Michael Terpening. We are here because of the choices and decisions that he made. Keep that focus on him. “His predatory behavior at The House Next Door was kept a secret, quiet, and in the dark for years... he finally assaulted the wrong boy.” The AG explained how Terpening allegedly “groomed” his victims by slowly, and over time, bringing up the subject of sexual behavior, and gay sex. He would then take the boys to an isolated spot and ask to see their genitalia. He reportedly performed oral sex on victims, talked dirty and pleasured himself, then gave gifts such as cigarettes and ordered them not to say anything about the incident. Povilaitis told the jury that the burden of proof, beyond a reasonable doubt, was the prosecution’s duty and she would provide conclusive evidence Terpening committed the acts of which he is accused. “I ask you lastly,” said Povilaitis, “to focus on Mr. Terpening. Focus on what he did. He will try to keep the focus on these troubled, vulnerable young men. He will put this on their behavior and their choices and their decisions. But, you ladies and gentlemen, are here because of one thing - because of what this man did and the choices he made when he abused that position of authority and selfishly stole what he wanted from the victims for his own selfish, sexual satisfaction.” Attorney Thomas Schaeffer and co-counsel Joseph Eldred are charged with representation of the defendant Michael Aaron Terpening. Schaeffer told the jury that the AG would like the jury to believe only one side of the story. “She says focus on what we are accusing the defendant of doing, and disregard other evidence you are going to hear,” said Schaefer. “And she knows what the other evidence is, in spite of that, she is saying to disregard it.” Schaeffer explained there are five alleged accusers and two of those accusers are main witnesses for the prosecution. He told the jury See TRIAL, page 7 New York author says need for local investing critical to every community by Doug VanderLaan Editor For a gal from the streets of Brooklyn, New York, author Amy Cortese has a lot in common with residents of Barry County. Cortese, the author of ‘Locavesting: The Revolution in Local Investing and how to Profit from It,’ will be the keynote speaker at Tuesday’s Barry County Economic Development Summit to be held at the Barry Expo Center. The presentation, scheduled with a lunch buffet beginning at 12 p.m., will be held in conjunction with the annual Business Expo that takes place from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. “I think the principles of local investing are pretty universal,” says Cortese, a former editor at Business Week whose book began with momentum from a small New York Times Magazine article about the market turmoil of 2008. “It does happen on a micro level here in Brooklyn because we’re very neighborhood-oriented, but the need sometimes is greater in more rural settings because, by nature, if you’re smaller you’re already more of an intimate community.” The intimacy of community is what fuels Cortese in her nationwide quest to mobilize localities to use small business and local investing as a defense against the overwhelming dominance of the country’s financial and political system on community life. “I grew up in the small town of Scotch Plains, New Jersey,” relates Cortese, during a telephone interview from her home, “and it was one of those quintessentially small, middle class towns where I walked to school and there was a great, little downtown. What made it special and gave it character was independent businesses, there were no big shops. Author Amy Cortese will deliver a compelling perspective on local investing to the Barry County Economic Development Summit on Tuesday. “We did get a mall which siphoned people out of the downtown area, but that was the national trend. At the time, everyone thought it was great progress, capitalism. But now, after a few decades, we’re able to see the consequences of it. It’s not just malls, but globalization and a number of these trends that have hollowed out our communities.” It’s Cortese’s mission to build them back. As she traveled from New York, to Hawaii, and to places in between like Clare, MI while researching her book, Cortese found dozens of towns and cities that are engaging in grass- roots efforts of collaboration and creative investing to rebuild their communities by fighting off the dominant influence of Wall Street and corporate fat cats. In nearly every case, Cortese was able to document the vital role of small business in those grassroots efforts to save their towns. Yet, her business reporting background convinced Cortese that the country’s financial and political system is stacked against small business -- despite the fact that small business generates 80 percent of jobs and half of GDP in America. “I’m seeing efforts on the part of a huge number of people to buy local,” says Cortese. “The ‘locavore’ movement is supporting local producers, moving food from the farm to our table. The next step is to invest locally, arguably, the most important piece to the movement.” Cortese is already at work on that piece, not only talking, as she will on Tuesday, about local stock exchanges, community-based funds, and social media “crowdfunding,” but also redesigning her www.locavesting.com website to help people connect their investable money with local entrepreneurs and small businesses. The challenge, Cortese concedes, will always be the engagement and the commitment of the local consumer who lives in an economy that has become so efficient it can consistently deliver the lowest price. “I’m a cost conscious shopper, too,” points out Cortese, “but there’s this perception that the big store is always going to be cheaper. The big store comes in with its lower price points but, once the local competition disappears, the lower price points disappear, too. That’s another assumption we need to ques- See INVESTING, pg. 3 Hastings in top 7 at state for fourth straight fall by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Hastings varsity girls’ golf coach Bruce Krueger feels like his team has established a reputation as a team to be reckoned with in Michigan high school girls golf. The Saxons wrapped up their season with their fourth straight top seven finish at the Division 3 State Finals, which were held Friday and Saturday at Bedford Valley Golf Course in Battle Creek. Hastings was third last year, second in 2010 and fourth in 2009. The Saxon team was in sixth place after shooting a 374 in the cold, wet conditions Friday, then dropped down to seventh with a 386 in the nicer weather Saturday. “I think some of our girls had very high, possibly unrealistic, expectations of themselves on Saturday and struggled to maintain their emotional composure when things started to go downhill, and this contributed to our higher score on day two,” said Krueger. “While the girls may have been temporarily disappointed, they should be very satisfied with their season.” The Saxons were shooting for a top five finish, and hoping to finally pass OK Gold Conference rival South Christian. They knew those were lofty goals though. That would be the mark of a great golf program: girls feeling a little disappointed in a seventh place finish at the state finals after a runner-up performance in the OK Gold and a Regional championship. Forest Hills Eastern won the state championship with a two-day score of 710. The The ten medalists over the weekend at the Division 3 State Finals, hosted by Bedford Valley, included (front from left) Cranbrook-Kingswood’s Cordelia Chan, Clio’s Ayla Bogie, Dearborn Divine Child’s Natalie Blazo, Forest Hills Eastern’s Henna Singh, (back) Cranbrook-Kingswood’s Greer Clausen, Forest Hills Eastern’s Jordan DuVall, Detroit Country Day’s Ellie Miller, Hastings’ Kylee Nemetz and Grosse Ile’s Katherine Kuzmiak. Hawks were in fourth place after a 367 on day one, but rallied for a 343 on day two. Cranbrook-Kingswood, which led with a 355 on day one followed that up with a 357 to finish at 712. Detroit Country Day and Grosse Ile each shot a 713. Jackson Northwest was fifth at 743, followed by South Christian 754, Hastings 760, Tecumseh 767, Chelsea 768, Lakewood 773, Grand Rapids Christian 774, Marshall 826, Big Rapids 839, Plainwell 844 and Cedar Springs 886. While it was the fourth straight year the Saxons were in the top seven at the state finals, it was the fifth straight in which the team had an individual finish in the top seven. Kylee Nemetz did it for the first time, after four years of 2011 state champion Gabrielle Shipley winning state medals. Nemetz finished in a tie for seventh with her two-day score of 169. She fired an 85 Friday then came back with an 84 on Saturday. “Kylee got off to a fantastic start (Saturday) by being only two-over-par after twelve holes, but couldn’t maintain that level of play when adversity struck.” Katie Brown also improved her score from day one to day two for Hastings. She shot an 89 Friday and an 87 Saturday which was her best 18-hole round of the season. Krueger said Nemetz and Brown were both on top of their game Friday, and played with confidence throughout the round. Solid rounds from seniors Lindy Kloosterman and Amanda Sarhatt helped the Saxons to their strong day-one finish. Kloosterman shot a 96 and Sarhatt a 104. Both slipped a bit Saturday, with Kloosterman scoring a 106 and Sarhatt a 109. Courtney Rybiski was the fifth golfer for the Saxons each day, shooting a 126 and a 121. Lakewood got a 92-89-181 from Emily Barker and a 96-96-192 from Olivia Barker. Victoria Hager added a 103-97-200, Kennedy Hilley 102-100-202 and Bryonna Barton 11098-208. “I was very proud of the team’s improvement after the second round on Saturday,” said Lakewood head coach Carl Kutch. “The See GOLF, page 18 �Page 2 — Thursday, October 25, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Students take field trip to Art Prize Lane Cooper brings art to the classroom by Shari Carney Staff Writer Art Prize may have ended, but students at Barry Intermediate School District in Hastings have been keeping it alive by creating versions of favorite pieces. The experience continued with a visit from Art Prize artist, Lane Cooper. A field trip to Grand Rapids earlier this month, Thursday, Oct. 4, had students, staff and volunteers trekking around the city visiting Art Prize entries. Besides interpreting the art pieces, students involved themselves in the voting process. Tie-ins were made to the upcoming presidential race. The two and a half hour field trip commenced from the Gerald R. Ford Museum and wove through various venues. “The only thing that stopped them was they were hungry,” said Amy Scoville, instructor. Back at the school the budding artists worked to create replications of favorite Students at BISD get a close up view of a praying mantis created by visiting artist Lane Cooper, (front, from left) Matt Elliott, Steven Nagy, (back) CJ Brugh, Alicia Washburn and Michael Endsley. Steven Nagy has found the piece he will replicate at Art Prize 2012. Nagy toured the event with his class Thursday, Oct. 4. (Photo by Amy Scoville) Teacher Sally Shuster-Shoff shares a moment of art appreciation with Tasha Betzner. Artist Lane Cooper visited BISD Wednesday, Oct. 17 and brought found art creations for student exploration. BISD student Alicia Washburn fashions an art project after a mosaic piece viewed at Art Prize. (Photo by Amy Scoville) Steven Nagy reaches for the praying mantis created by Lane Cooper. Cooper is an award winning artist and contributer to Art Prize. He visited BISD Wednesday, Oct. 17. Students, staff and volunteers from BISD toured Art Prize in Grand Rapids Thursday, Oct. 4, (front, from left) Robbie Spaulding, Bill Easey, Ray McKelvey Jr., (standing) Donna Schallhorn, Steven Nagy, Wanda Hartman, Keena Reid, Connie Summers, Drew Deming, Sally Shuster-Shoff, Derek Stiver, CJ Brugh, Alicia Washburn, Amy Scoville, Eric Daniels and Jan Day. 77572017 Eric Daniels examines a figure with a door knob head, made by Lane Cooper. Cooper brought found art creations to show students at BISD Wednesday, Oct. 17. Bill Easey wields a paint brush in the early stages of his art prize project. Each year the students at BISD choose a favorite Art Prize entry and recreate it for a display in the administration office. (Photo by Amy Scoville) Steven Nagy carefully cuts the dog he has colored for his rendition of a favorite piece at Art Prize 2012. (Photo by Amy Scoville) pieces. The pieces are on display in the BISD adiministration office where they will be voted on by visitors and staff. Lane Cooper, an award winning artist from Freeport, participated in Art Prize. He brought examples of found art creations to the students Wednesday, Oct. 17. A table was laden with sculptures including, a hockey player, horseshoe crab, flowers, praying mantis, lizard and a tractor. Using found art, Cooper sees potential in what most would consider junk. The horseshoe crab is made from an actual horseshoe, the tractor’s body from an old fashioned sewing machine, heads for a hockey player and skier from door knobs. Cooper shared that he suffered a closed head injury, as the result of an accident, in 2003. The pain, while excruciating at times, has been helped by art therapy. Cooper learned welding as an employee at Amway. He would see items tossed away and would rescue them to create works of art. Students interracted with the pieces, touching them, turning them over and reaching for favorites. “It made my day to see these kids,” said Cooper who plans to come back and make a craft with the students. Artist Lane Cooper visited the students at BISD Wednesday, Oct. 17. Cooper has learned to function with the challenges of a closed head injury sustained in 2003. Art has been therapy and now a full-time pursuit for Cooper. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 25, 2012 — Page 3 Pennock makes 2012 Quality and Culture Awards The HealthGrades Joint Replacement Excellence Award is presented to (from left) Kenneth Merriman and Dave Heeringa, representing the Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, and to Joe Maurer and Lynda Lancamp, representing Pennock Health Services Surgical Services. Representing Pennock Health Services excellence throughout the area are (from left) Sarah Hardy - Clarksville Family Medicine, Anita Asadorian - Caledonia Family Medicine, Larry Hawkins - Gun Lake Family Medicine, Fred Bean - Nashville Family Medicine, and Diane Ebaugh - Hastings Family Medicine. Missing from the photo are Christina Reisinger and Sarah Verberg. As a group the team is honored with the Blue Cross Blue Shield Patient-Centered Medical Home Practice Initial Designation Award. Maggie Coleman, chair of the Pennock Healthcare Board of Trustees, is the winner of the Michigan Health and Hospital Association Fellowship Completion Award. (Photos by Rose Hendershot) The Barry Community Enrichment Center was the setting for the fifth annual Pennock Quality and Culture Awards on Thursday, Oct. 18. The awards represent a continued commitment to the organization’s mission to provide quality health services in a personal, professional, and progressive manner as a partner with the community. The “P” Award stands as a professional partner recognition to recipients who, in a variety of healthcare delivery areas, stood in 2012 as examples of the Pennock story. Sharing the American Association for Respiratory Care Recognition Award are (from left) Shawn Wernette and Jon Anderson. INVESTING, continued from page 1 Recognized by the American College of Radiology’s Nuclear Medicine and MRI Accreditation Program are (from left) Larry Winkler, Stacey VanDenBerg, Deborah White, and Scott Mayo. Not present for the photo are Melissa Mack, Dennis Bruce, and Eric Ward. tion.” That lack of understanding is a frustration that carries over for Cortese into the polical arena, as well. “There’s just a lack of understanding of “Our Main Streets and downtowns is where democracy thrives, where our town halls are the coffee shops. They’re the forum where people come together, where there’s an environment that promotes civic engagement. You don’t get that same civic understanding and engagement if you drive to the mall.” halls are the coffee shops. They’re the forum where people come together, where there’s an environment that promotes civic engagement. You don’t get that same civic understanding and engagement if you drive to the mall.” The Economic Development Summit will also include a presentation on Barry County economic trends and issues by George A. Erickcek, senior regional analyst for the W.E. Upjohn Institute. Currently, Erickcek is leading a research team in a study and evaluation of Economic Development Association initiatives and their comprehensive planning documents. Thursday’s Business Expo is open to the public and free of charge. Registration fee for the Summit presentation is $10 which “There’s just a lack of understanding of issues. People end up voting against their own best interests and that’s why education is so important. We need critical thinking.” Amy Cortese, author of “Locavesting” includes a lunch buffet. Registration is available online at www.mibarrysummit.eventbrite.com. Amy Cortese, author of “Locavesting” 1351 N. 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HURRY… SALE ENDS MONDAY, OCTOBER 29TH 42nd St Regina Matthews (left) and Beverly Spoelstra receive the Joint Commission’s Core Measureds Top Performer Recognition Award. Not present for the photo is David Parker. Sale! issues,” maintains Cortese. “People end up voting against their own best interests and that’s why education is so important. We need critical thinking.” Which doesn’t lead to any direction on how she’s leaning Nov. 6. “No matter who wins, we’re still looking at years in this era of austerity and gridlock,” says Cortese, “but it all trickles down and hurts the local economies the hardest. It’s now the era of ‘Us Taking Care of Us.’ The motivating force for me is communities stepping up and realizing that it’s up to us to be sure we have healthy, vibrant communities. “Our Main Streets and downtowns is where democracy thrives, where our town OP Ave 14325 OP Ave. Climax • 269-746-4286 MON-FRI 8AM-5PM, SAT 8AM-12PM 295 Hamblin Ave. Battle Creek • 269-962-4025 MON-FRI 8:30AM-5PM, SAT 8:30AM-12PM No sales to retailers or wholesalers. Good while supplies last. We reserve the right to limit quantities. �Page 4 — Thursday, October 25, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Birds of a feather ... and a friend Bob May loved being mayor of Hastings Freddy Kietzman of Hastings shared this photo. She writes: “During the fall season, I love seeking out groups of birds that are gathering in preparation for their annual journey to warmer climates. This past late Saturday afternoon, I was driving south on Havens Road with the windows down. As I was passing Otis Sanctuary, I came upon a tree on the east side of the road and was surprised by an eagle sitting in the midst of dozens of [red-winged] blackbirds. My camera was standing by with exposure set. I grabbed it, aimed and shot.” Tom Funke, resident manager of the sanctuary, said they’ve had a flock of 750 to 1,000 red-winged blackbirds hanging around for the past week or so. For more than 20 years, Bob May served the people of Hastings as council member and mayor with great pride and satisfaction. His gentle, quiet leadership style earned him the respect of so many who knew him, which was evident by the large crowd that filled the First Presbyterian Church at the Monday morning funeral celebration. A celebration of a great citizen, father, brother, friend — May will be remembered for his cheerleader leadership style that served him well as he led Hastings by “Preserving the past while planning for a beautiful future.” May was appointed as council member for the Second Ward in 1992 and was elected to the same in 1994, 1998 and 2002. He served as mayor pro-tem in 2001-03 and was elected as mayor in 2004, an office he held right up until his battle with cancer ended. In politics today we measure our leaders by their mistakes or their rhetoric rather than their values, actions and works. I read once that, “One of the marks of a gentleman is his refusal to make an issue out of every difference of opinion.” In all the conversations I’ve ever had with Bob, he always took the high road looking for the good in the people around him. He didn’t get caught up in opinions or controversy; his leadership style was about friendship, caring and concern to do the right thing for the people who relied on him. A couple of years ago, I wrote about another political leader for whom I always had a great deal of respect. Congressman Vern Ehlers served eight terms in congress before announcing his retirement in 2010. In an interview before he stepped down, Ehlers said, “In the good old days, they [congressional representatives] played golf together and had dinner at each other’s homes. It adds a lot to the civility — that just doesn’t happen any more.” Bringing civility and honor back to the political process is something that most Americans are looking for. Even though May’s role was local, he made getting things done possible because he was approachable, understanding and willing to do what was in the best interest of Hastings — his passion. The proof of his leadership style comes from the many accolades he received during his political career. During his years of public service, May was an active member of the Michigan Municipal League, a past board member of the Elected Officials Academy, EOA Certification. In 2007, he received the MML Special Award of Merit; in 2010 MML Exceptional Service Award; 2008 Michigan Association of Mayors Advocate of the Year and served on a number of their committees. Since being elected mayor in 2004, May served on the Hastings Planning Commission, Hastings Downtown Development Authority, Hastings Local Development Finance Authority and the Grand Valley Metropolitan Council. May was a member of the Hastings Kiwanis Club, the First Presbyterian Church of Hastings and was awarded the We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@jadgraphics.com. Please include information such as where and when the photo was taken, who took the photo, and other relevant or anecdotal information. Do you know? Since the FFA National Convention is being held this week in Indianapolis, it seemed a good time to run this photo. The young man seated on the left is wearing a jacket embroidered with the name Bob Case. Do you recognize the others? Do you know why or when this photo was taken? What can you tell us about this photo? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event to reunite the photos with their original clippings or identify photos that may never have been used. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@j-adgraphics.com; or call 269-9459554. Last week’s photo, also of four men, but three in costume, drew several responses. Most people agreed that the man on the left was a Cleveland. Some said Denny Cleveland; some said Tom Cleveland. The man seated was Russ Hankins, owner of a jewelry store in Hastings. No one was certain of the identity of the other two. Do you know them, or do you know which Cleveland was in the photo? The Hastings Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Bonnie Mattson • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 What do you Book of Golden Deeds in 2008. As a cancer survivor, he participated in the local Relay for Life and was the first recipient of the Robert L. May Humanitarian Award from the American Cancer Society. May also took part in the local March of Dimes Walk for Babies. He started his life as a pre-term baby when his mother gave birth to two three-pound babies. His brother died the same day. Later, his sister was born prematurely, but was in the four-pound range. May said of his past, “When you think of what March of Dimes did back then, the big push was polio. Look what we did with polio — we hit it our of the ballpark — it’s gone for the most part. So there’s no reason March of Dimes can’t eliminate most premature births. One in eight births today are pre-term Let’s beat preterm births the way we beat polio.” For several years now, we’ve seen May with a tank of oxygen as his sidekick, allowing his the extra oxygen he needed to continue to do his special work. As part of the special ceremony, Dr. Jim Atkinson said he lived his life guided by the book, Power of Positive Thinking, written by Napoleon Hill and the lessons May learned from his time in the Navy. During his military career, he received the National Defense Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal and Meritorious Unite Ribbon. Returning home after his military service, May went to work for Pepsi as a route driver serving over 30 years before his retirement in 2000. Upon moving to Hastings, May became active in the local American Legion Post 45 where he was a past commander. He was a lifetime member of the Nashville VFW Post 8260 and Hastings Moose Lodge. During his earlier years, May was a Boy Scout, and throughout his life gave his time and talent serving the local Cub Scout and Boy Scout programs. May was a regular at local elementary schools, reading to the kids and telling them what it’s like to be mayor of Hastings As mayor of Hastings, he was on-call to tell his story to local organizations about how well the community was doing. He appeared in numerous parades and was honored as grand marshal – all in the line of duty. May was a dedicated servant to his constituents and lived life to the fullest. Included in the program handed out at May’s funeral was a poem titled “The Good Times and the Bad.’ The last paragraph sums up Bob’s life in just a few words. “No matter what the situation life throws at me, I will never worry. I will never be sad; Because God is with me always, Through the Good Times and the Bad. May struggled with a number of medical issues, but it never slowed him down. He awoke every day ready to face all the adversity life could throw at him – he forged on as though he didn’t have a worry in the world. We will miss May’s big smile, gentle ways and the dedication he brought to every challenge. think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. Last week’s question: Austrian daredevil Felix Baumgartner broke the human freefall record last week, jumping from a helium-filled balloon at over 24 miles altitude and breaking the sound barrier by falling at a speed of 833.9 miles per hour. Some say the daredevil feat will prove to be scientifically significant. What do you think it was? 62% A stunt 38% Scientifically significant For this week: Monday’s final presidential debate now brings into focus the Nov. 6 election. Were the debates helpful in shaping your final opinion? q q Yes No See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 25, 2012 — Page 5 Sheriffs should enforce laws, not interpret them IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV Religious groups should not be forced to provide contraceptive coverage To the editor: Joe Biden managed once again to make a train wreck out of his open mouth during the Vice Presidential debate. Prime example: his assurance that the Catholic Church should in no way be forced to violate its teachings by complying with the now-notorious mandate by Health and Human Services. This mandate says that employers, including religious institutions, will be required to furnish contraception coverage as part of their health care plans. This mandate is a direct attack on the Catholic Church, which will be forced to violate its most deeply held beliefs in order to comply with governmental fiat. The Catholic Church sees this as an outrageious violation of religious liberty. “With regard to the assault on the Catholic Church,” said Biden, “let me make it absolutely clear. No religious institution -Catholic or otherwise, including Catholic Social Services, Georgetown Hospital, Mercy Hospital, any hospital -- none has to either refer contraception; none has to pay for contraception; none has to be a vehicle to get contraception in any insurance policy they provide. That is a fact.” A fact, perhaps, in the weird Orwellian world of this administration, where fiction is fact, danger is security, economic hardship is economic growth, and truth always seems to go begging. It didn’t take the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops even 24 hours to contradict this “fact.” Archbishop William Lori of Baltimore, the chairman of the U.S. Bishops’ ad hoc Committee on Religious Freedom called Biden’s statement “inaccurate in the extreme.” Biden’s words are one more example of the Democratic Party’s hustling the Catholic vote with soothing, but fundamentally worthless assurances. We have been told that the administration generously made an “accommodation” to allow religious institutions to get out of paying for contraception if it violates their teachings. Instead, the insurance providers would pick up the cost. The so-called “accommodation” amounts to nothing more than an accounting gimmick. By transferring it to the insurance providers, the cost of contraception has been placed one remove from the Church. But the Church will still pay. The insurance providers are not going to provide these services free, no matter how much the government insists that they will be. They will simply tack this cost onto the premiums and the religious institutions will pay for it. “Obviously, if there were no threat to religious liberty,” said Archibishop Lori, “if the HS mandate were not forcing us to fund and facilitate things we regard as immoral, we wouldn’t be in court seeking redress. It was both surprising and disappointing that something so blatantly inaccurate was said in such a public venue.” All this from a man who goes out of his way to assure us that he is a “faithful Catholic.” I’m waiting for a journalist with enough moxie to ask Biden just what he means by “faithful.” I’ll bet the answer would provide fodder for a very pointed discussion. Gary Coates Hastings Write in Jeff VanNortwick for county commissioner To the editor: Jeff VanNortwick is a write-in candidate for Barry County commissioner for the townships of Assyria, Baltimore and Johnstown. I was very disappointed in the results of the primary in August. Although the vote was close, Commissioner VanNortwick did not prevail. I have had the opportunity to attend, with frequency the Johnstown Township Board meetings. It is rare if Commissioner VanNortwick is not in attendance to board meetings in all three townships in his district. Updates on events and county government decisions are reported and questions answered. I have personally referred taxpayers to Commissioner VanNortwick for questions related to county government functions. The response is timely and helpful. I have worked with many governmental officials over several years and believe retaining Commissioner Jeff VanNortwick will serve the 7th District well. Joyce Foondle, Johnstown Township Substance abuse is everyone’s problem To the editor: October is designated as National Substance Abuse Prevention Month by President Obama and the Office of National Drug Control Policy. National studies and surveys, along with local data collection, indicate substance abuse, including underage drinking and the abuse of prescription and over-the-counter medications, is a problem that affects many people. Among Barry County youths reporting recent substance abuse, the abuse of alcohol ranks first, followed by marijuana (second), tobacco (third), and prescription medicine abuse (fourth) (MiPHY survey, 2010). For adults in our community, trends are similar. Research shows prevention efforts work to reduce youth and adult substance abuse behaviors. Ben Franklin was correct when he said “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Simply put, if we put our efforts into prevention, we need less treatment and intervention later on. The Barry County Substance Abuse Task Force, along with its many partners, is active throughout the community, spreading prevention messages to help make Barry County a safer, healthier place for all. These prevention messages and activities are everywhere. Look around, you’ll see prevention at work. Good community prevention includes individuals, parents and families, too. Everyone can do something to help prevent substance abuse — in their home, in their family and in their community. Here are some quick and easy prevention strategies: Talk to your children and grandchildren. Tell them you want them to make good choices to be free of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs. Research shows that talking works. Make your home a “safe” place by locking up and securing any medications — be sure to monitor your medications, too. Dispose of medications safely at one of three law enforcement locations or one of the eight local pharmacies participating in medication collection. If you’re driving, simply don’t drink any alcohol or take prescription medications that can affect your ability to drive. Don’t provide alcohol to minors. It’s illegal. Plain and simple. Provide a smoke-free environment for yourself and your loved ones. Second-hand smoke is harmful to everyone. Need help quitting? Call 800-QUIT-NOW. If you see suspicious behavior that you believe could be drug-related, such as meth production, call 911 or Silent Observer at 800-310-9031 immediately. Learn more about preventing substance abuse for yourself and your loved ones. Visit our website at www.barrycountysatf.com for more information. Most importantly, if you or a loved one is experiencing problems related to substance abuse, please seek help. Help is available and is only a phone call away; local treatment is available at Barry County Community Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, 269948-8041. This October, please join me, and all the members of the Barry County Substance Abuse Task Force in doing our part to prevent substance abuse in Barry County. Let’s work together to make our community a better, healthier place. For more information, please feel free to call the SATF, 269-948-4200. Liz Lenz, coordinator Barry County Substance Abuse Task Force To the editor: Until a few weeks ago, I had never heard of the Constitutional Sheriffs and Peace Officers Association. I would like to thank Doug VanderLaan for the research and reporting in the October 4th Hastings Banner. It provided enough leads that anyone with internet access could easily find out more. There is so very much more to find. The CSPOA is not about law enforcement. Quite the opposite, it is about subverting the constitution, not defending it. It is a farfringe political organization somewhere out beyond the end of the legitimate political spectrum. The very existence of the CSPOA is based on the bizarre theory that a county sheriff has the constitutional right and duty to arrest federal law enforcement officers when, in the opinion of the sheriff, the feds are overstepping their authority. It is very troubling that Sheriff Dar Leaf and his Eaton County counterpart Mike Raines actually believe this baloney. Wow. Aren't you proud of your sheriff now? Dar Leaf claims that the CSPOA meetings that he attended in Las Vegas were “training and education.” Materials readily available on the internet indicate otherwise. There is no legitimate law enforcement related component. It is pure political indoctrination, nothing more, nothing less. Sheriff Leaf would like us to believe that the speakers at the CSPOA meeting were “constitutional scholars.” In the fantasy world of Las Vegas and in their own fertile imaginations, maybe they are. In the real world though, these people are nothing more than political crackpots. Nobody becomes a real “constitutional scholar” by self-proclamation. Under the real constitution, police enforce the law. The courts interpret the law and the constitution. A sheriff has never had the authority to decide constitutional questions. Under the CSPOA's fantasy version, what is “repugnant” to the constitution is left to the whims of the local sheriff. These two sheriffs truly believe that this is within their constitutional authority. It would be funny if it wasn't scary. Directly from the CSPOA website: “It is imperative that we educate all elected officials and the people they serve on the duties and authority of the sheriff to protect the people from all enemies, both foreign and domestic. Sheriffs have the authority and duty to stop state and federal enforcement of laws repugnant to the constitutions. After all, they did take an oath to do so!” Did you get that? According to these cowboys, the courts no longer determine what is or is not constitutional. No need for due process anymore, the sheriff can take care of that just fine, thank you. The sheriff is the ultimate constitutional authority. Just ask him. Can you imagine that a sheriff might act beyond his/her authority? That is simply unthinkable, because our sheriff IS the authority. Just ask our very own sheriff. The best enigmatic quote thus far is this, from Sheriff Dar Leaf. “If you don't use the authority granted to you, you are, in a sense, taking it away from the public.” What in the world does that mean? Under what circumstances has Dar Leaf ever exercised that socalled “authority.” To my knowledge, he never has. Under what circumstances would Dar Leaf ever exercise that “authority.” I want to know. More importantly, to be an informed voter, I need to know. Federal and state law enforcement officials have traditionally had the cooperation of local law enforcement officers in conducting their investigations and arrests. Will that trust continue when the local sheriff has publically declared that his real loyalty might be with the other team? Probably not. The curious aspect of this is that none of these sheriffs are willing to actually exercise the powers that they proclaim they have. How do I know? Think about it. If any county sheriff anywhere actually physically interfered with a federal (or state) law enforcement official exercising their bona fide duty and authority, it would be front-page above-the-fold news in every newspaper across the country and, indeed, around the world. It would be the lead story of every news broadcast everywhere. If even one sheriff ever actually exercised the authority they claim for themselves, everyone would know about it. The reason you have never heard of a sheriff exercising these fantasy powers is that it has never happened. Yet. The apparent goal of the CSPOA is to prod some sheriff somewhere to do something profoundly stupid. Why have none done so? Who will be the first to actually cross that line? Will our sheriff be the hero of this group? Will our sheriff go where no swashbuckling sheriff has ever gone before? So, the CSPOA is an organization of county sheriffs that claims fantasy constitutional President to blame for gas prices, economic troubles To the editor: Here are some facts and reminders of how things have changed following the Nov. 2008 Presidential election: At that time, the cost of a gallon of gasoline was $1.99; unemployment was 6.3%; Hastings had four automobile dealerships and we now have none; MetalDine, a factory in Middleville, employed about 200 workers and that factory along with many other businesses has closed. I hope the voters remember this at election time this year. George Cullers Baltimore Township powers for themselves that none of them are willing to actually use. Wow. Aren't you proud of your sheriff now? There are 3,142 counties or county-equivalent units of government in the United States. The sheriffs of only 160 or so have joined the CSPOA. So, 5% of the elected sheriffs have publically demonstrated their mental imbalance. We can take comfort that such a small percentage have done so. We should be very uncomfortable that ours is among the unbalanced 5%. How is it that so many sheriffs can be so thoroughly misled? I don't know for sure, but I have a theory. I believe the CSPOA is seducing these flawed human beings by whispering sweet words in their ears. “YOU are the last line of defense for the constitution.” YOU are the ultimate authority.” “YOU don't even have to obey the President.” They are playing on the vanity of some very vain people. Money, (and apparently lots of it) plays a part, too. Dar Leaf has readily confirmed that his expenses were entirely covered by the CSPOA. Think about that. Somebody with very deep pockets is paying the way, not for just our sheriff, but quite likely for many more. Who is that, and what is their real agenda? Dar Leaf has now made two trips to Las Vegas to rub elbows with other sheriffs who are equally vulnerable and vain. Why? So that he and the others can congratulate each other on their newly-found fantasy powers and duties. So that he and 127 other county sheriffs can solve problems that simply don't exist. Wow. Aren't you proud of your sheriff now? Our sheriff asserts that “The federal gov- ernment doesn't have to follow normal procedures like I'd have to follow.” This is complete nonsense. All levels of government are subject to the constitution, and to federal and state laws and regulations. Sometimes federal (and state, and local) officials exceed their authority. When they do, the judicial system will rein them in. For every anecdote of official overreach, there are plenty of documented instances where courts have told the government, “You can't do that.” Our system works. Sheriff Leaf said, “We have a lot of people - even in our own community - who are scared about (the federal government).” Of course, he is right about that. I have spoken with many of those same people. While some of their fears might be out of proportion, they are not misplaced. We should all be vigilant. We should all be ready and willing to protect and defend our constitutional rights from any threat, federal or state. Or local. All law enforcement officers at every level of government have difficult and dangerous jobs. No officer anywhere deserves the distraction and implied threat of a second-guessing cowboy sheriff. Shame on Dar Leaf. Shame on Mike Raines. And shame on every other member of CSPOA. When it comes to clear and present danger of official overreach, I think the people of Barry and Eaton Counties have far more to fear from a delusional sheriff than from the federal government. I don't want to be alarmist about this, but aren't you more than just a little bit concerned about your sheriff now? Brian Reynolds Hastings Bridge is Michigan’s future To the editor: Unfortunately, Proposal 6 doesn’t consider Michigan’s future. It preserves the lucrative monopoly enjoyed by the Ambassador Bridge owners, who are bankrolling the proposal and spending millions on deceptive advertising to stall Michigan’s progress. Proposal 6 supporters say there’s no such thing as a “free bridge.” Of course, the bridge will be paid for — but not by Michigan taxpayers. It will be designed, built and operated by the private sector. Canada is graciously agreeing to foot the bill for Michigan’s share of the project and will be repaid by tolls on its side of the border. Our legally binding agreement makes this clear – Michigan taxpayers will not pay for this project. Don’t let Proposal 6 stand in the way of a more prosperous Michigan. Brian Calley, Lt. Governor Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 225-5144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. �Page 6 — Thursday, October 25, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Call anytime to place your Hastings Banner classified ad 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 Worship Together… Area Obituaries Patricia Burd Omar Ray Cooper Ronald A. Richardson Jr. 77571833 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Rev. Ryan Wieland. Sundays - 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Service; Sunday School and Nursery available during both services (Summer Schedule - Adult Sunday School: 9 a.m., Worship & Children’s Programs 10 a.m.) Youth Group, Covenant Prayer, Choir, Chimes, Praise Band, Quilting Group, Community Breakfasts and more! Call the church office at (269) 721-8077 (M/W/F 9 a.m.-12 p.m.), e-mail office@mei.net or visit www.countrychapelumc.org <http://www.countrychapelumc.org/> for more information SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 . HASTINGS ASSEMBLY OF GOD 1674 S. State Rd., Hastings, MI 49058 Phone 269-945-2285. Sunday morning service times: 9 a.m. with nursery and preschool available and 11 a.m. with nursery, preschool and kids’ church available. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 8:45 a.m. Traditional Worship; 10 a.m. Refreshments; 10:45 a.m. Contemporary Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Youth Pastor Eric Gillespie. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. for children and youth, and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Junior and Senior High Youth Group 6:00 p.m. , and several adult small group opportunities. Wednesday Mid-Week Pioneers at 6:30 p.m.: Pioneer Club, 4 years through 5th grade. Adults: Marriage Enrichment class, Women’s Prayer Group and a Men’s Bible Study. Thursday: Senior Adult (50+) Bible Study at 10 a.m. and lunch at Wendy’s, 11:30 a.m. Third Thursday Brunch at 9:30 a.m. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Sunday, October 28 - Worship Service 8 and 10:45 a.m. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. October 28 Men’s Alcoholics Anonymous 7 p.m. October 29 - Adventure Bible Study 7 p.m.; Recovery Bible Study 7:30 p.m. October 30 - Pastor Interfaith Dialogue. October 31 Wordwatchers 10 a.m. November 1 - Clapper Kids 3:45 p.m.; Grace Notes 5:45 p.m.; Adult Choir 7:15 p.m. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 9452645, fax 269-945-2698. Pastor Amy Luckey. http://www.discover-grace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot.com. Friday - 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday - 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday 4 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Lauer Family Funeral Homes Patricia (Pat) (Shurlow) Burd passed from this life on October 17, 2012. She was born on May 10, 1928, the daughter of Clayton Shurlow and Frances (Scott) Shurlow. She graduated from Hastings High School in 1947 and worked at the Hastings Manufacturing Company before she married Robert Burd in October of 1948. All of their married life was lived in Assyria Township. He preceded her in death on July 9, 2000. She worked for a time at the Bellevue Middle School library and retired from what was then Community Hospital in 1988. She is survived by her daughter, Anna (Ron) Bender and sons, Tom (Gail) Burd of Elizabethton, TN and Jerry Burd at home; grandchildren, Matt (Christina) Bender and Nick (Melissa) Bender of Nashville and Nicole Burd and Josh (Miranda) Burd of Elizabethton; nine great-grandchildren;, two great-great-grandchildren; beloved nieces and nephews on both sides of the family; along with sisters-in-law, Bonnie Pierce of Pennfield, Thelma Burd of Hastings and brother-in-law Arden (Virginia) Burd of Nashville. Also surviving are her brother, Robert (Su) Shurlow of Hastings and sisters, Cathleen (David) White of Holly Springs, NC and Dorothy (Gene) Flint of Hastings. Her life centered on family, and her later life was further enriched by the music she played with the Nashville Strings and the Nashville Five Plus, among others, and the friends she made doing so. She was entirely self-taught, but she sang and played the banjo, guitar and piano joyously, and the importance in her life of those evenings making music cannot be overstated. According to her wishes, cremation has taken place, and a memorial service held on October 22, 2012 at the Baseline Methodist Church. Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Daniels Funeral Home in Nashville. Please visit our website at www.danielsfuneralhome.net for further details. GRAND RAPIDS, MI - Timothy R. Koutz, of Grand Rapids, passed away on Sunday October 21, 2012 at Hope Network Assisted Living from complications of Huntington’s disease. He was born in Hastings on January 17, 1962 to Leonard and Evaline (Potter) Koutz. He weighed 8 pound 8 ounces and it was 8 degrees outside. He graduated from Hastings High School in 1980. He was employed in Colorado as a mechanic and later in Grand Rapids as a Water Proofer for a commercial contractor. Surviving are his mother, Evaline (Rev. Vernon) Macy of Hastings; siblings, Micheal of Kalamazoo, Cheryl (Jim) House of Grand Rapids and Ron (Glenda) of Hastings; three nephews and a niece; one great niece and one great nephew. Tim was preceded in death by his father, Rev. Leonard Koutz. Tim’s family received friends on Wednesday, October 24, 2012 at Hastings First Baptist Church, 309 E. Woodlawn Ave. in Hastings with a luncheon until time of services. Funeral services entrusted to Lauer Family Funeral Homes – Wren Chapel, 1401 N. Broadway in Hastings. For those who wish, the family would appreciate contributions to Hope Network Foundation, PO BOX 890, Grand Rapids, MI 49518. Please share a memory with Tim’s family at www.lauerfh.com. Fiberglass Products 945-2471 FAMILY FUNERAL HOMES 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 Lt. Gov. Calley offers his perspective on ballot proposals Jack A. Tomlin Timothy R. Koutz 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings HASTINGS, MI - Omar Ray Cooper, age 73, of Hastings, passed away Monday, October 22, 2012 at Spectrum Health Butterworth in Grand Rapids. He was born April 26, 1939 in Charters, KY, the son of Minor and Jessie (Lewis) Cooper. Omar honorably served in the U.S. Air Force. He worked for General Motors Fisher Body for many years. Omar married Nancy (Gray/Morgan) on December 31, 1986. Omar was a member of the American Legion Post 45, Barry County Conservation Club and the NRA. He enjoyed trap shooting, camping with his family and traveling. Omar was preceded in death by his parents; and brothers, Darrell and Gayle Cooper. Omar is survived by his wife, Nancy Cooper, children, Kim Donaldson, Ivan Cooper, Deborah (Michael) Thompson, Tammy (Ron) Wilcox, Richard (Becky) Morgan Jr., Rodney (Nancy) Morgan; grandchildren, Ken (Kebbie) and Nick Thompson, Heather (Jake) Armour, Colby (Cede) Wilcox, R.J. (Ashley) Morgan, Jessica, Britney and Austin Morgan, Bo and Kassidy Morgan, Ashley (Josh) Michaels, Shayla (Dusty) Morgan; great-grandchildren, Arylana Michaels, Zoey Armour, Cooper Schofield, Tanner Morgan and Braelyn Dennis-Wilcox; siblings: Ivan (Suzie) Cooper, Earl (Judy) Cooper, Sue (Paul) Loos; and his loving companions, Pepper and Sugar. Memorial contributions may be made to the Barry County Conservation Club or the Humane Society. A memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, October 27, 2012 from 10 a.m. until noon at the Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message for the family. HASTINGS, MI - Ronald A. Richardson, Jr., of Hastings, passed away suddenly, October 18, 2012. Ronnie was born September 17, 1994, the son of Ronald and Tina (Lincoln) Richardson Sr. Ronnie was a senior at Delton Kellogg High School. He loved the outdoors, especially fishing, hiking and cutting firewood. Ronnie also enjoyed working on cars. He loved making people happy, and will be remembered for his big heart. Ronnie is survived by his mother, Tina and stepfather John Farmer; brothers, Garold Richardson, and Tyler Farmer; a sister, Lynn Farmer; half brothers, Nicholas and Cody Conyers; maternal grandfather, Don Lincoln; maternal grandmother, Joan Green; paternal grandmother, Ruth Gray; four nephews; and several aunts, uncles and cousins. Ronnie was preceded in death by his father, and an uncle, Donald Richardson. A memorial service will be conducted, Friday, October 26, 2012, Noon, at Interlakes Baptist Church, Delton, Pastor Michael Fields, officiating. Those who wish to make memorial contributions are asked to consider the needs of the family. Please visit www.williamsgoresfuneral. com to view Ronnie’s online guest book or to send a condolence message to the family. DELTON, MI - Jack A. Tomlin, of Delton, passed away October 19, 2012. Jack was born March 5, 1931, in Detroit, the son of Frederick and Mildred (Seyould) Tomlin. While residing in Detroit, Jack worked as a mechanic. Jack was a veteran serving his country in the US Marine Corp. In 1965, Jack moved to Delton where he started Tomlin and Son Excavating and also owned and operated Stoney Point Trailer Park at Crooked Lake for over 50 years. Jack was a member of the Hickory Corners American Legion, and a member of the Delton Drift Dodgers Snowmobile Club. On March 4, 1951, he married the love of his life, Evelyn Mae MacLaren, and she preceded him in death on February 13, 2011. Jack is survived by a son, Ken E. Tomlin; a daughter, Kathy Ann Tomlin; a sister, Helen; seven grandchildren; two great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Jack was preceded in death by his wife, and a brother Bud. A memorial service will be conducted Saturday, November 3, 2012, 2 p.m. at Pleasantview Family Church. Interment will take place at Fort Custer National Cemetery on March 4, 2013 Memorial contributions to Borgess Visiting Nurse and Hospice will be appreciated. Please visit www.williamsgoresfuneral.com to view Jack’s online guest book or to send a condolence message to the family. Lt. Gov. Brian Calley visits his home county of Ionia Monday to offer his perspective on the six statewide ballot proposals. by Bonnie Mattson Staff Writer Lt. Gov. Brian Calley was the guest speaker Monday, Oct. 22 at a luncheon sponsored by the Portland Area, Ionia Area, and Lakewood Area Chambers of Commerce. Calley returned to his home county of Ionia, to offer his perspective on the six proposals that will appear on the Nov. 6 ballot. “We wanted to provide a forum for local business people to have an opportunity to hear Brian’s point of view on the issues surrounding the six proposals,” said Marnie Thomas, director of the Lakewood Area Chamber of Commerce. “Lynne Paridiso of Portland was instrumental in getting this together. Hats off to her for a fine job.” The event, which was put together over a 48 hour periold was a sell-out, according to Thomas. The location of the event, held at the Corner Landing restaurant, had special meaning for Calley, as he told the crowd of over 80 present, that it was in the very room where he announced his decision to run for state office seven years ago. Calley encouraged guests to read each proposal in its entirety before going to the polls, as the 100 word summaries that will appear on the ballot will not give a complete picture of what each proposal will or won’t do for the state. The first proposal, according to Calley, began as a grassroots effort. The other five were placed on the ballot through the efforts of “paid signature collectors”. Calley made it clear he was speaking only on the statewide ballot initiatives, and not on any local proposals. For more information on the six proposals, visit www.crcmich.org. �TRIAL, continued from page 1 the two conspired to make accusations against Terpening, with a the motivation of getting out of the group home and going elsewhere. He said there will be witnesses who overheard the two making plans to accuse Terpening of inproper behavior. Schaeffer said one of the two confessed to making the plans. “These are not little children,” said Schaeffer. “These are either adults or 17-1819-20-year-old accusers. There was only one who was 14 or 15 years old at the time he said there was improper behavior.” The second motivation for the accusations, said Schaeffer, was the possibility of making money. “These are felons of offenses of dishonesty and larceny,” said Schaeffer. “You will hear that they said ‘We’ve got a chance to make some money. Michael Terpening is loaded and has all this property. This is an opportunity for us to make some money.’” The defense said the jury may hear of how the government pressured witnesses to testify in a certain manner, and said there are three video statements by one victim. According to the witness, he was coerced to say things that were not true. “You will hear that he was pressured by the government, by police, and by the prosecutor’s office from this particular county,” said Schaeffer. “That he was told not to have contact with anybody. That he was whisked away and put in a B-and-B [Bed and Breakfast] for about five days...he was also threatened to the point that he would be charged with purgery if he changed his testimony. “The government wants to believe that there is such a perverted history connected with the defendant that he has his people, himself, and he has influence over these young people. I submit you will hear testimony to the contrary.” The defense concluded by asking the jury to consider the evidence and find the defendant not-guilty on all charges. The Terpening trial continues in Barry County Circuit Court, with Judge Amy McDowell presiding, for the next couple of weeks. See upcoming issues of the Banner for continued coverage. Social News Newborn Babies Ian Emerson Ansorge, 8 lbs. 6 ozs., 20 inches, born Sept. 14, 2012 at 12:06 p.m. to Eric and Janette (Jennings) Ansorge at Johannes Gutenberg-Mainz University Clinic; Mainz, Rheinland-Pfalz, Germany. ***** Chance Cameron, born at Pennock Hospital on Oct. 8, 2012 at 6:45 p.m. to Crystal Svenson and Bruce Garber of Hastings. Weighing 6 lbs. and 20 inches long. ***** Ailyanna Sky, born at Pennock Hospital on Oct. 14, 2012 at 9:29 to Mike and Lindsey Hamp of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 4 ozs. and 18 inches long. GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. by Gerald Stein NORTH N: 8 7 M: 9 L: A K Q 9 3 2 K: K Q J 10 EAST N: Q J 5 4 M: Q 8 7 4 2 L: 8 K: 8 7 5 SOUTH: Nelson and Elaine Hine celebrating 40th anniversary McManaway celebrate 50th wedding anniversary Ed and Bev McManaway have celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary on Oct. 20th at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. They enjoyed a relaxing week with Mickey and Minnie. They had dinner at the Coral Reef on their anniversary. Family and friends will gather on Oct. 27th to celebrate with the couple at a private party. Their children are Marshall and Kathee Pierce, Walter McManaway and Shawn and Terry McManaway. Nelson Hine married the former Elaine Gaudio on October 27, 1972. Their children are: Patricia (Mike) Cox, Sherry (Andrew) Woodstock, John (Carrie) Hine, Kenneth (Susan) Foster, Steven Foster, Allan Foster (deceased); 11 grandchildren. Elaine is a retired nurse (worked at Thornapple Manor). Nelson still operates Hine Machine Repair. Both are members of Barry Antique Tractor Club and St. Joseph Valley Tractor Club. They enjoy traveling with camper. Enjoy bluegrass music. No gifts – cards welcome at 6640 Wilkins Road, Hastings, MI 49058. Don MacKenzie celebrates 95th birthday Deckers to celebrate 25th wedding anniversary David and Barb Decker of Hastings have been trick or treating together for the past 25 years. Married on Oct. 31, 1987 at the Hastings Free Methodist Church where they are still active members. David was employed by B.C.N., is a retired Army veteran and chaplin at American Legion Post 45. Barb is still employed at Seidl Veterinary Hospital. A great love of animals, gardening and helping others is shared. They have a daughter Casey Lynn (Aaron) Solomon, a 5 year old granddaughter Adelia Margaret and two step grandchildren Blake and Wendy all of Jackson, Mich. Their special verse Isaiah 40:31. Don MacKenzie celebrated his 95th birthday on October 19th. He has five children: Doug (Judy) MacKenzie and Keith (Kay) MacKenzie both of Vermontville, Don (Marilyn) MacKenzie of Woodland, Den (Bonnie) MacKenzie of Hastings and Denise (Joe) Morgan of Naples, Florida. Don retired after many years at Hastings Manufacturing Company in Hastings. Cards may be sent to Don c/o Oakview Adult Foster Care, 2895 E. M-79 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058. Marriage Licenses Nicholas Earl Bremer, Middleville and Stephanie Marie Hogan, Middleville. Randall Lee Groover, Wayland and Charron Renea Woodwyk, Wayland. Tyler Steven Walton, Delton and Samantha Murie Taylor, Delton. Thomas Carl Dettmann, Wayland and Danielle Jean Oscar, Wayland. Scott Lee Redman, Hastings and Kristen Marie Munro, Hastings. Timothy Allen Wilson, Bellevue and Kylee Lynn O’Heran, Bellevue. N: 9 6 3 2 M: K 5 L: 6 5 K: 9 6 4 3 2 N: A K 10 M: A J 10 6 3 L: J 10 7 4 K: A Dealer: North Vulnerable: None Lead: QN North L 1L L 3L L 5L M 6M Pass East Pass Pass Pass Pass Pass South M 1M 4NT 5NT 7NT West Pass Pass Pass Pass Every bridge player’s dream is bidding, playing and making a grand slam contract. While it is often possible to take all 13 tricks in the play of the hand, it is not so easy to reach that milestone of bridge nirvana by actually bidding and making the grand slam. When this feat happens so seldom in a bridge player’s life, it is worthy of note when the opportunity shows up. It is akin to a golfer getting a hole in one at the age of 75. Today’s hand illustrates the wonderful feeling of bidding, playing, and making the coveted 7NT contract, the highest level of bidding that a bridge player can attain. L. Everyone at the table First, the bidding by the opener North was a standard opening bid of 1L knew that North had an opening hand of 13 total points and at least three diamonds. East and West are out of the loop on this hand. Between them, they have a total of eight high card points, but they are distributed equally between them. East and West pass each time that North and South bid to their ultimate goal. South has heard the opening bid of partner North, and with deliberate slowness, as there is no M, promising, on this first round of bidding, at least four hearts, and big hurry here, South bid 1M at least six points. South was simply bidding up the line to see what more information she could M bid was a forcing bid as it was a new suit, and South was gain from her partner North. The 1M an unpassed hand. North must bid again. With West passing, North bid the diamond suit again, promising five or six diamonds and L, showing 15-17 points with a strong diamond suit. South bid strongextra values. North bid 3L ly this time using the Blackwood Convention to ask for aces. This was a partnership agreement L, showing one ace. that 4NT would ask for aces. South bid 4NT, and North responded with 5L L since she had the other three aces in her South knew from her hand that her partner had the AL hand. So far so good. Not content with just an ordinary small slam, and with all four aces together, South next asked for kings from North by bidding 5NT. To bid and ask for kings, it is important that the partnership have the four aces first. North knew that her spades, heart, and clubs would be covered by M, promising two kings. What South did not know was which kings South’s aces. North bid 6M her partner had. South did know that the partnership was missing one king, but which king was the missing one? At this point, South had to make a serious deliberate decision. South knew the following information: a small slam usually needs 33 points to make and take 12 tricks. A grand slam usually needs 37 points to make and take all 13 tricks. How close were they to the needed numbers? South recalculated her hand and counted 17 high card points and one length point in hearts for an estimated 18 total points. Trusting her partner to have what she said she had, South calculated that North had 15-17 total points, one ace, two kings, and a long diamond suit. South deliberated between bidding the almost sure small slam with 33 points between them, or going for the ultimate goal in a bridge player’s life: the grand slam. What would you have done? South reasoned this way: a grand slam opportunity does not come up that often. When it does, the need to bid it and play it and claim the highest prize in bridgedom is a rush of adrenaline. Bid the 7NT. That is exactly what South did. She bid 7NT and all passed. N, South thanked her partner When South saw the dummy come down after the lead of the QN for such excellent bidding. The plan was easily understood. There were six diamond tricks, four club tricks, two spade tricks, and one heart trick for a grand total of 13 tricks and the coveted 7NT award. The only danger seen here was the play of the hand, and it was imperative that K first to unblock the club suit, and then all the cards were set for South to South take the AK K from the short side first was soon apparent as it might claim the rest. The need to play the AK be impossible to get back to the good clubs. With a feeling of giddiness and pleasure, North/South had reached that state in the bridge world that eludes many players. May you reach 7NT soon in your bidding world. Answer to last week’s bridge question: What is the Law of Total Tricks? Whole books have been written on this topic, but, basically, the idea is that the number of trump in both hands should equal the number of tricks able to be taken. For example, if you and your partner have nine hearts between you, you should be able to take at least nine tricks with hearts as trump. Try it and see if it works. ***** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) Kanes celebrate 70th wedding anniversary Daniel and Ruth Kane of Middleville will celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary on October 25, 2012. They were married at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Peters, MI. They have four children, 11 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren. A dinner was held in their honor on Sunday, October 21. Join in celebrating this wonderful occasion by sending a card to them at 500 Lincoln St #103, Middleville, MI 49333. 77572015 Call 945-9554 for more information. BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY WEST Green Street to be closed Wednesday for Trick-or-Treating A special Halloween trick-or-treating event will be held in Hastings on Wednesday, Oct. 31 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Green Street, from Broadway to Cass, will be barricaded to allow only ghost and goblin traffic. Two police reserve officers will be on duty at each end of the barricaded area and volunteers will be redirecting traffic at all Green St. intersections. Although emergency traffic will be allowed, motorists are asked to avoid Green St. during trick-or-treating hours. The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 25, 2012 — Page 7 �Page 8 — Thursday, October 25, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Hastings takes next step toward assuming ownership of Riverside Cemetery Lake Odessa by Elaine Garlock The depot complex will be open this weekend along with its genealogy rooms. Hours are Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Workers are making progress on the paving projects at railway crossings throughout town. The bumpy Jordan Lake Highway crossing has been closed this week, producing far more traffic on Fourth Ave. and Huddle Rd. The completed Fourth Ave. crossing is a much smoother improvement. Congregational members from eight area churches participated in the annual fall conference held this year at Central United Methodist Church. The local church hosted all visitors with refreshments following a business meeting transacted by the UMC District Superintendent. Churches represented were Peace, Freeport, Welcome Corners, Sunfield, Sebewa Center, Mulliken, Woodland, and Central. Pastor Susan Olsen, with six years service, was the most senior of church pastors. The Red Cross Bloodmobile was in town on Monday for the bimonthly blood collection which this month yielded a gift of 52 pints of blood. Garlock family members from Richland, Kalamazoo, Grand Rapids, Lake Odessa, Hastings, and Woodland drove to Big Rapids on Saturday to celebrate the retirement of Bruce Garlock from Baldwin High School after 41 years of service. His teaching companions came from a wide area stretching north to Ludington, to Reed City, and beyond. The museum at Edmore, housed in a former Lutheran church, was the setting for a meeting of approximately 30 members of the Tri River Museum group. Edmore’s musuem has some rare collections of items as does the FenceRider’s Museum nearby where the group visited after a downtown Edmore lunch. The latter museum was built especially to house museum items which began with one man’s collection of barbed wire. The trip home proved eventful, too, as travelers witnessed the smoldering ruins of a barn near the M-66 and M-57 intersection where, according to later news reports, the body of an unidentified man was found. The barn stood on land belonging to Phoebe Wilson, mother of State Senator Judy Emmons. Congratulations to Michael and Cindy Rankins of Traverse City who welcomed a second baby girl to the family on Sunday. Bob and Ginny Kruisenga are the happy grandparents. Jean Hyde was recently spotted at the Mooville Ice Cream Shoppe near Nashville treating her 11 grandsons -- that’s right, no granddaughters for Jean and Dean. The corn crop is under full harvest as fields are turning from tall corn to stubble. Wagon loads of corn can be seen being hauled to the Eaton Highway Agronomy Plant. The Ionia Historical Society’s “Spirits of the Past” cemetery walk was well attended. Keith Bailey, a member of the county genealogy society, used his research of the Highland Park cemetery to entertain patrons with stories of Ionia’s past. Several Historical Society members played the roles of community characters including Cathy Haney, the daugher of Lois Peacock, who portrayed one of Ionia’s fine ladies, the wife of Governor Fred Greene. Free Thursday morning movies are always the attraction at the Ionia Theater. Today, the movie house will show San Francisco, Maui, and Australia. On Nov. 1, the featured film will be on the Copper Canyon and California. Sebewa Center UMC will hold an additional Election Day meal on Tuesday, Nov. 6 with a choice of two soups, hot sandwiches, cookies, and beverages. First Congregational Church in Lake Odessa is offering a new support group for those who have gone through any of life’s changes and challenges. The group will meet tonight at 6:30 p.m. for its opening session. Call 269-367-4038 or 269-370-8138 for more details. Trick-or-treat time in Lake Odessa will be from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 31. There will also be free activities downtown in the 900 block of Fourth Ave. Check the Lakewood News for details. The Oct. 1 passing of former resident Neva Valentine was reported on the Lowell Ledger’s obituary page. She was preceded in deather by her husband, Buford “Boots,” her parents, and her sister, Eunice Eldridge. She is survived by her children, daughter Janet and husband Bill Pitman of California and son James and Cheryl of Lowell. A memorial gathering was held at St. Edwards Church Hall on Oct. 14. Burial was in Lakeside Cemetery. The Woodland Women’s Study Club had a very successful home tour last weekend. The tour hostesses met for dinner on the evening previous to the event and held their own tour of the eight homes. When it’s time to make tough decisions for your loved ones, choose... by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Monday evening, the Hastings City Council approved a motion to take the next step toward assuming ownership of Riverside Cemetery on West State Road, contingent upon voter approval of a one-mill levy to support the operation, maintenance and improvements to the cemetery. Earlier this year, a group of citizens and business people formed the Cemetery Action Group to look into working with the city to transfer the privately owned and financially struggling cemetery over to the City of Hastings. In September, the council asked the CAG to find funding for transitional costs, such as a boundary survey, title investigation, environmental assessment, preliminary legal work and the cost of a special election. CAG representatives told the council that the group had such funds available, which are being held by the Barry Community Foundation, and agreed to pay the following: boundary survey, $1,800 to $2,200; title investigation, $250; environmental site investigation and Baseline Environmental Assessment (BEA) if required, $3,000 to $15,000; preliminary legal work, $5,000 to $15,000; and, special election costs, $4,000, for total not to exceed $36,450. If, after the preliminary work is completed, the city council decides to proceed, a special election will be slated for Tuesday, May 7, 2013. The proposed ballot language would allow a potential levy of up to 1 mill for the operation, maintenance and improvement of the cemetery. If voters approve the millage, the city would assume ownership of the cemetery July 1, 2013, the start of its 2013-14 fiscal year. At that time, the funds in Riverside Cemetery’s perpetual care funds would be transferred to the Barry Community Foundation. In other business, the council: • Presented Deb May, the widow of Hastings Mayor Bob May, with a proclamation signed by members of the council, honoring May for his years of dedication and service to the City of Hastings, first as a council member then as mayor. • Approved the appointment of Hastings businessman Al Jarvis as the First Ward council member to fill the seat left vacant by Waylon Black, who resigned from the post in September. The appointment was approved by a 5 to 2 vote with mayor pro-tem Brenda Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of Assisted Living Family Home 269-948-9842 www.river-ridge.biz Careful Medicine Administration Insulin Shots Home Cooked Meals Assist with Bathing, Dressing, and other Personal Care Needs Laundry Cable Television Lifeline Bracelet and Service Home Nursing Available Private Room with Bath Transportation provided Reasonable rates 2301229-01 7757199 October 21 through 27 is National Save for Retirement Week, established by Congress to remind Americans of the importance of — you guessed it — saving for retirement. So why not mark the occasion by considering ways in which you can boost your own financial resources for those years in which you’re officially a “retiree”? If you’re somewhat concerned about your financial prospects during retirement, you’re not alone. Check out a few of the findings from the Employee Benefit Research Institute’s 2012 Retirement Confidence Hello, I would like to introduce myself. I am the Martin Woodshop teacher half time and I work at E. Leet Woodworking in Plainwell half time. My Martin students have won many firsts at State. Although I am a tradesman I also have a Masters Degree in Ed. Leadership from Western. I love our beautiful area and I want it to stay that way. I do not want to see our water polluted or our public lands messed up for gas company profits. We must consider the greater good of the people and the future generations in important decisions which will effect them. Fracking has proven to pollute drinking water most recently in Pavillion, Wyoming. This is why I am running for township supervisor. Thank you – George Williston WILLISTON FOR SUPERVISOR 77571928 For pro-active leadership ... Paid for by: Committee to elect George Williston, 10334 Keller Rd., Delton, MI. tion must be held. The council is expected to discuss the issue during its next regular meeting slated for 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 13. • Approved a request from the Barry County Area Chamber of Commerce to hold its annual Christmas in Hastings activities the weekend of Dec. 1. • Set a special workshop for 6 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 13, to receive the audit of the fiscal year ended June 30, 2012. EDWARD JONES Time to observe ‘save for retirement week’ O R A N G E V I L L E VOT E R S VOTE FOR McNabb-Stange and trustee Dave Jasperse dissenting. Jasperse said he had no concerns about appointing Jarvis to the post, but objected to the timing since the funeral for May had been held earlier that day. McNabbStange said she voted against the appointment because she didn’t feel she had sufficient time to review Jarvis’ application. The council has 45 days from Oct. 16 to appoint a successor for May, or a special elec- Financial FOCUS River Ridge All the amenities you need with the beauty you’ll love, all overlooking the Thornapple River. The City of Hastings is taking steps toward a special millage election that will determine whether it assumes ownership of Riverside Cemetery. Survey: • Just 14% of workers are very confident they will have enough money to live comfortably in retirement. • Sixty percent of workers report that the total value of their household’s savings and investment, excluding the value of their primary home and any defined benefit plans, is less than $25,000. • More than half of workers report that they and/or their spouse have not tried to calculate how much money they will need to live comfortably in retirement. In these challenging economic times, it can be challenging to pay your living expenses and still have money left over to save for retirement. But you can take some steps to help your cause. Here are a few to consider: • Pay yourself first. Every time you get paid, move some money — even if it’s only a small amount — from your checking or savings account into an investment. Make it easier on yourself by having your bank move the money automatically. • Boost your 401(k) contributions. Whenever you salary goes up, increase your 401(k) contributions. Your money can grow on a tax-deferred basis, which means it can accumulate faster than if it were placed in an investment on which you paid taxes every year. • “Max out” on your IRA. Even if you have a 401(k), you’re probably still eligible to contribute to an IRA — and you should. A traditional IRA can grow tax deferred, while a Roth IRA’s earnings are tax-free, provided you’ve had your account at least five years and you don’t start taking withdrawals until you’re at least 5 1/2. For 2012, you can contribute up to $5,000 to your IRA, or $6,000 if you’re 50 or older. • Control your debts. It’s never easy, but try to reduce your debts as much as possible. The less money you need to devote to debt payments, the more you can add to your investments. • Build an emergency fund. Try to build an emergency fund containing six to 12 months’ worth of living expenses, kept in a liquid account. This fund can help you avoid dipping into your retirement accounts to help pay for unexpected costs, such as a big doctor’s bill, a new furnace or a costly car repairs. • Create a retirement income strategy. It’s important to project your living expenses during retirement. Then, once you have at least a good estimate, you can create a long-term strategy — involving your investments, retirement accounts, Social Security benefits and all other financial resources — to help you achieve the retirement income you will need. To calculate these figures and develop such a strategy, you may want to work with a financial advisor. National Save for Retirement Week will come and go quickly. But your retirement could last for decades — so do everything you can to prepare yourself. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 32.35 -.91 AT&T 35.00 -.40 BP PLC 41.40 -.90 CMS Energy Corp 23.97 +.13 Coca-Cola Co 36.61 -1.29 Eaton 45.55 -.45 Family Dollar Stores 65.29 -3.23 Fifth Third Bancorp 14.69 -.31 Flowserve CP 130.13 +.16 Ford Motor Co. 10.00 -.30 General Mills 39.48 -.22 General Motors 23.87 -.92 Intel Corp. 21.59 -.76 Kellogg Co. 51.65 -.42 McDonald’s Corp 87.96 -6.13 Pfizer Inc. 25.19 -.61 Ralcorp 72.10 -2.13 Sears Holding 60.57 -1.60 Spartan Motors 4.75 -.36 Spartan Stores 14.21 -.88 Stryker 52.25 -1.21 TCF Financial 10.95 -.11 Walmart Stores 74.76 -2.15 Gold $1706.70 -$41.10 Silver $31.65 -$1.33 Dow Jones Average 31,102 -449 Volume on NYSE 630M +30M �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 25, 2012 — Page 9 Pioneer school boy ran away and became Civil War soldier The following is part of a series that began in the April 30, 1914, Hastings Banner regarding Hickory Corners native Alonzo D. Cadwallader, and his recollections as a boy soldier ***** The following dispatch from Washington published in the Grand Rapids Press brings into the limelight one of our quiet inoffensive citizens who has resided in our city for the past 38 years, but nevertheless, he has a life history that reads like a romance. Washington, Apr. 15 – The story of 15year-old boy who enlisted in the army and fought in the battles of Antietam and South Mountain and then took “French leave” because he was slightly disciplined by his superior, lies behind a bill which passed the house this week. Because of this one mistake, due to boyish ignorance and despite the fact that he afterwards re-enlisted, Alonzo D. Cadwallader of Hastings, never drew a pension, while comrades of less distinguished service were more fortunate. After Cadwallader left his command he was arrested by an officer on a charge of desertion. Later he was taken away from the officials in a writ of habeas corpus and afterwards received from the War Department a Certificate of Honorable Discharge. There was some conflict in the records at the War Department, however, as to his service. One record showed that he left his command on Sept. 20, 1862, and the other Sept. 30, 1862. This date became very important, as unless it could be shown that he remained with the army until the latter date he could not draw a pension. Congressman Edward L. Hamilton took up Cadwallader’s case because he thought it was worthy. He secured ample evidence to show that Cadwallader did not leave his command until Sept. 30. The House has passed the bill correcting Cadwallader’s record and it is expected the Senate will likewise do him justice. Cadwallader had waited 50 years for this action. Mark Foote Being anxious to know more about the history of our warlike citizen, whom no one suspected of possessing such ferocious blood, a Banner representative wormed out the following condensed story from him and his records: On the 8th day of August 1847, in a little log cabin on a pioneer farm in or near what is now known as the city of Fostoria, Ohio, a little child for the first time exercised his vocal organs and commanded respect and attention. He was the son of Robert Cadwallader, who died when Alonzo was a year and four days old. He has two older brothers, now living at Hickory Corners, James M., who was elected County Clerk of Barry County in 1864, and Charles W., who resided many years on a farm at the northern end of Gull Lake. April 6, 1850, Mr. Cadwallader’s widowed mother, Hannah, whose maiden name was Whitmore, married Elijah B. Bowker and in the early 1850s moved to Barry County and located on a farm a mile south of Hickory Corners. Here the subject of our narrative spent his early boyhood and immensely enjoyed the woods. His brother James M. had a beautiful little muzzle-loading rifle, an heirloom from his father, on which, in early boyhood, Alonzo cast a covetous eye. As early as 10 years with the permission of his brother, he proudly shouldered that little instrument of destruction and penetrated the wilderness alone in quest of game. The result was that he became an expert marksman, as all country boys of those times were, and squirrels in the topmost trees seldom required a second shot to dislodge them. A squirrel that was not shot in the head was spurned with a feeling of chagrin at the poor marksmanship. He received his early education at a country school, but practically is a self-made man of a studious habit and desiring to learn, his spare moments were usually well improved. At school he lead a strenuous life with the other kids, and, among other things, to test courage and endurance, he would step into a circle with another “kid,” each taking the trim of a hat in their mouth and then kick one another’s shins, good naturedly of course, to see which one could stand the most punishment. He heard the first gun that was fired on Fort Sumter, April 12, 1861, when it was heard throughout every Northern state, and echoed and re-echoed until the close of the Civil War. On that eventful day he was 12 years old, eight months and four days old. His hearing was acute and understanding good, for he had kept himself well posted on the current events that led up to the firing of that gun. It had a sickening and ominous sound. Freedom’s soil was shaken as by an earthquake. Business was suspended and men talked of war. The first call for troops was made. The drums beat and bugle sounded. The plow was forsaken in the furrow, the cobbler left his bench, and the clerk ceased to measure gingham. With these raw and undisciplined troops the first battle of Bull Run was fought, and, if the confederates had followed up their victory with push and energy after that disastrous engagement, history might have read differently; but it seems that an overruling Providence had ordered otherwise. During those stirring events is there any wonder that the war fever ran high? The spirit of 1776 fired the land. Now Cadwallader claims no merit above other boys. It was a common heritage from patriotic sires. The great bulk of the army was made up of “kids” in their teens. The time came when he could restrain himself no longer and Jesse Newton, a neighbor boy, was similarly afflicted. They secretly connived to break away from parental restraint and get to the front. They thought that good squirrel hunters were needed there. In June 1862, the two boys had matured their plans and secretly left home, walked across country to Jackson, and there, on June 27, 1862, enlisted in Company K, Seventeenth Mich. Infantry, and were from thence transferred to Detroit where the Regiment was being organized. Camp life there consisted of strenuous exertions to convert the raw recruit into a disciplined soldier, and there, within the borders of their own state, the great State of Michigan, they experienced the first great battle of their lives – the body louse invaded the camp – that frisky little animal always at the fore front of all military activity. At the time of his enlistment, Cadwallader was, to be accurate, 14 years, 10 months and 19 days old. He was worried about being able to pass muster, but he ran the gauntlet and came out a full fledged soldier. The latter part of August the regiment left Detroit in the evening on two chartered steamers and arrived in Cleveland the next morning, where during the day, they were hustled into cattle-cars, packed in like sardines and moved on slowly, but surely, like freight express, toward the great capitol, where the regiment arrived weary and worn by the loss of rest and sleep after three days and nights transit. The regiment arrived in Washington at the time the second battle of Bull Run was fought and the fever of excitement ran high after the second disastrous engagement on that hoodooed field. The 17th, the next day after its arrival in Washington, armed with axes only, was detailed to aid in cutting standing timber to give free and unobstructed view and range for the guns of the forts and to impede the progress of the enemy should the fortunes of war bring our chivalrous but misguided southern brothers near the gates of the city – a soldier always pays tribute to a valiant foe. The regiment had been in Washington scarcely a week before it was on the road to the front. Day and night it plodded its weary way o’er hill and dale, stopping, occasionally a few hours for refreshment and repose. The men became so worn and weary it was hard for the bugle call to arouse them from slumber to review the march. No camp-fires were allowed night or day to apprise the enemy of their whereabouts. When in the foot-hills of South Mountain, Maryland, the regiment moved cautiously and under constant orders, as it was in the immediate vicinity of the enemy. While resting just before the advance up the mountain and off to the right in a valley, cavalry horses could be seen in charge of keepers, while their riders were employed on foot o’er rugged ridges and the enemy were dropping shells into the valley to stampede them. The regiment did not have long to wait. The bugle sounded, and the men advanced rapidly up the mountain in four ranks and into “Turner’s Gap” while the enemy occupied the crest of the mountain on both sides in force, strongly posted behind stone fences and rocks. It was a craggy place and some 400 or 500 feet above the Gap, their artillery occupied commanding positions, it looked like the jaws of h--l. When the regiment was passing through the gorge changing its formation into line of battle, the fight was on. A shell which burst and took off the hands of two men just in front was Cadwallader’s first experience under fire. Brains and blood were scattered o’er the men near by, and the force of the concussion threw the dead men back against the living and dazed them – it was hard to realize what had happened for a moment – it was so sudden. He thought for a time that one of the dead men was his comrade, Jesse Newton. He thinks every soldier will concede the first crash of battle is trying to nerves, after that danger is partly forgotten in the excitement and desire to win. Cadwallader is a modest man and says that he was there with brave comrades whose heroic example gave him courage and support. They shared with him the same experiences. It was not an individual affair. It was the military regimental unit that won renown at South Mountain, where Lee received his first serious check in his advance on Washington. In “Michigan in the War” on pages 377 and 388, the following reports were found: General Wilcox, in his report of the part taken by the 1st Division, 9th Corps, at South Mountain, says of the 17th Michigan in that engagement: “I planted a section of Cook’s battery near the turn of the road (Sharpsburg) and opened fire on the enemy’s battery across the main pike. After a few good shots the enemy unmasked a battery on his left, over Shiver’s Gap from a small field enveloped by woods. He threw canister and shell and drove Cook’s cannoneers and drivers down the road with their limbers; Cook gallantly remained with his guns. Cook here lost one man killed, four wounded, and two horses killed. The attack was so sudden, the whole division being under fire – a flank fire – that a temporary panic ensued until I caused the 79th New York, Lieutenant Colonel Morrison, and the 17th Michigan, Colonel Withington on the extreme left, to draw across the road facing the enemy, who were so close that we expected a charge to take Cook’s battery. The 79th and the 17th here deserve credit for their coolness and firmness in rallying and changing front under a heavy fire. “I received order from General Reno and McClellan to silence the enemy’s batteries at all hazards. Sent picket report to Reno, and was making disposition to charge-moving the 17th Michigan so as to cross the hollow and flank the enemy’s guns – when the enemy charged out of the woods on their side directly upon our front, in a long heavy line; extending beyond our left to Cox’s right. I instantly gave the command, ‘Forward!’ and we met them near the foot of the hill, the 45th Pennsylvania in front. The 17th Michigan rushed down into the hollow, faced to the left, leaped over a stone fence, and took them in flank. Some of the supporting regiments over the slope of the hill, fired over the heads of those in front,and after a severe contest of some minutes, the enemy was repulsed, followed by our troops to the opposite slope and woods, forming their own position. See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING INTERNET SAFETY POLICY The Board of the Hastings Public Library will conduct a public hearing prior to their regularly scheduled meeting on monday, November 19, 2012 at 4:00 PM in the Community Room on the second floor of the Library at 227 East State Street, Hastings, for the purpose of hearing comment and making a determination on an Internet Safety Policy in advance of requesting Universal Service Fund reimbursement. The Policy is available for review at the Library during regular service hours. Comments may be submitted in writing until the time of the hearing or made in person at the public hearing. Citizen views and comments on the proposed policy are welcome. Evelyn Holzwarth Library Director 77571995 NOTICE The minutes of the meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners held October 23, 2012, are available in the County Clerk’s Office at 220 W. State St., Hastings, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or www.barrycounty.org. 77571842 NOTICE The Barry County Road Commission is accepting sealed bids for the purchase of a pre-owned rubber tired 15 ton roller. Full specifications can be obtained from the BCRC. Bids will be opened at 10 AM on November 1, 2012 at the offices of the BCRC. The BCRC reserves the right to reject any and all bids or to purchase comparable equipment at a lower price. Please clearly indicate on the outside of the envelope “Sealed bid enclosed - Rubber Tired Roller”. Please direct all questions Rob Richardson, Equipment Superintendent. CITY OF HASTINGS REQUEST FOR BIDS SALE OF 1993 FORD SUPER DUTY DUMP TRUCK The City of Hastings, Michigan will accept bids for the sale of one (1) 1993 Ford Super Duty Dump Truck. This vehicle will be sold as-is without warranty of any kind and has approximately 50,000 miles on it. Arrangements to view this vehicle can be made by calling 945-2468 weekdays between the hours of 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM. The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in any bid, and to award the bid in a manner that the City deems to be in its best interest, price and other factors considered. Bids will be received at the office of the City Clerk/Treasurer, 201 East State Street, Hastings, MI 49058 until 9:15 AM on Tuesday, November 13, 2012 at which time they shall be opened and read aloud. The winning bid, if any, will be approved at the City Council meeting on November 26, 2012. Winning bidder must be prepared to take possession with certified funds between November 27 and 30, 2012. “The 17th Michigan, Colonel Withington, performed a feat that may vie with any recorded in the annals of war, and set an example to the oldest troops.” Extract from General McClellan’s report: “General Wilcox praises very highly the conduct of the 17th Michigan in this advance, a regiment which had been organized scarcely a month, but which charged the enemy’s flank in a manner worthy of veteran troops.” Extract from the New York Press: “The enemy, as usual, sought every advantage, particularly that of numerous stone fences, behind which they assailed our men fiercely, but the impetuous charge of some of our regiments, particularly that of the 17th Michigan, but two weeks from home, carried everything before it, and the dead bodies of the enemy on that mountain crest lay thick enough for stepping stones. The greatest slaughter at this point was among General Drayton’s brigade, composing mainly of South Carolinians and some Georgians. Nearly the whole of this brigade was either killed, wounded or captured.” The battle of South Mountain was fought on the 4th day of September 1862, and the charge and taking of the stone walls behind which the enemy were strongly posted with batteries, gave to the 17th Michigan, the name of the ‘Stone Wall Regiment,’ by which it was known throughout the army, and which has gone with it into the history of the war. The regiment bivouacked that night on that field, so dearly purchased, and sank to rest from weary march and fatigue of battle to dream of mothers, sisters, wives and sweethearts, in distant homes fighting their patriotic battles without experiencing the stirring events at the front which, to those there engaged, robbed the war of half its horror. (To be continued) 77571851 Barry County Road Commission 1725 W. M43 Hwy. P.O. Box 158 Hastings, MI 49058 269-945-3449 CITY OF HASTINGS REQUEST FOR BIDS The City of Hastings, Michigan is soliciting bids for the provision of one (1) year 2012 minimum 2500HD, 4WD Extended Cab Utility Truck for use by the Department of Public Services at the Wastewater Treatment Plant. Complete specifications are available from the Office of the City Clerk. The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in the bid proposals, and to award the bid as deemed to be in the City’s best interest, price and other factors considered. No formal bidding forms or documents are required, but all bids must be in writing and sealed. All sealed bids must be clearly marked on the outside of the bid package as follows: “SEALED BID - 1993 FORD SUPER DUTY DUMP TRUCK”. Bids must be clearly marked on the outside of the submittal package - “Year 2012 4WD Extended Cab Utility Work Truck”. Bids will be received at the Office of the City Clerk/Treasurer, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 until 9:00 AM on Tuesday, November 13, 2012 at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. Thomas E. Emery City Clerk/Treasurer Tim Girrbach Director of Public Services 77572001 77572003 Call any time to place your Hastings Banner classified ad 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 �Page 10 — Thursday, October 25, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES SYNOPSIS HASTINGS CHARTER TOWNSHIP Regular Meeting October 9, 2012 Meeting called to order at 7:00 p.m. Pledge and roll call. Seven board members present. 4 guests attended. Approved agenda, Sept. 2012 minutes and various dept. reports. Standing reports approved. Draft received of Emergency Service Ordinance. Election Committee report. Software & Hardware for Treasurer and Assessor. Warrants approved for payment. Adjourned at 8:30 p.m. Submitted by Anita S. Mennell, Clerk 77572013 Attested by Jim Brown, Supervisor NOTICE TO THE RESIDENTS OF BARRY COUNTY Notice is hereby given that the Barry County Zoning Board of Appeals will conduct a public hearing for the following: Case Number V-8-2012 John Vandenbrink and Susan Kelly Location: On a Vacant lot on E Shore Drive on Crooked Lake in Section 7 of Barry Twp. Purpose: Requesting a variance to build a new home that has a rear yard setback of 15 ft (the minimum is 30 ft) and a front yard setback of 20 ft (the minimum is 30 feet for a home) per Section 1005 (5.)(a, c.) in the RL zoning district. MEETING DATE: Tuesday November 13, 2012. TIME: 7:00 PM PLACE: Community Room, Courts & Law Building at 206 West Court Street, Hastings MI Site inspection of the above described property will be completed by the Zoning Board of Appeals members before the hearing. Interested persons desiring to present their views upon an appeal either verbally or in writing will be given the opportunity to be heard at the above mentioned time and place. Any written response may be mailed to the address listed below, faxed to (269) 948-4820 or email to: jmcmanus@barrycounty.org. The variance applications are available for public inspection at the Barry County Planning Office, 220 West State Street, Hastings MI 49058 during the hours of 8am to 5pm (closed between 12pm to 1pm) Monday - Friday. Please call the Planning Office at (269) 945-1290 for further information. The County of Barry will provide necessary auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/hearing upon ten (10) days notice to the County of Barry. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the County of Barry by writing or calling the following: Michael Brown, County Administrator, 220 West State Street, Hastings MI 49058, (269) 945-1284. 77571993 Pamela A. Jarvis, Barry County Clerk Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Michael J McGill, a married man, joined by his wife, Kelly McGill, who is waiving dower, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Plus, Inc., Mortgagee, dated October 18, 1995, and recorded on October 26, 1995 in Liber 643 on Page 586, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Nationsbanc Mortgage Corporation as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Eight Thousand Nine Hundred FortyOne and 97/100 Dollars ($98,941.97). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on November 29, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land located in the Southeast 1/4 of Section 32, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, described as: Commencing at the Southeast corner of said Section 32, running thence Due North 870.43 feet to the centerline of Irving Road; thence North 47 degrees 22 minutes 30 seconds West 390.25 feet; thence North 54 degrees 17 minutes 30 seconds West 1,021.63 feet; thence North 79 degrees 18 minutes West 567 feet to the point of beginning; thence South 15 degrees 15 minutes West 308.20 feet to the railroad right-of-way fence; thence Northwesterly along said railroad right-of-way fence 450.70 feet; thence North 10 degrees 42 minutes East 319.50 feet; thence South 79 degrees 18 minutes East 475 feet to the place of beginning. Except A parcel of land located in the Southeast 1/4 of Section 32, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, described as: Commencing at the Southeast corner of said Section 32 running thence Due North 870.43 feet to the centerline of Irving Road; thence North 47 degrees 22 minutes 30 seconds West 390.25 feet; thence North 54 degrees 17 minutes 30 seconds West 1,021.63 feet; thence North 79 degrees 18 minutes West 567 feet to the point of beginning; thence South 15 degrees 15 minutes West 208.20 feet to the railroad right of way fence thence Northwesterly along said right of way fence 225.35 feet thence North 12 degrees 58 minutes 30 seconds East 313.85 feet; thence South 79 degrees 18 minutes East 237.50 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: October 25, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #413216F01 77571836 (10-25)(11-15) STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12- 26192 -DE Estate of RICHARD L. GRANT. Date of Birth: June 8, 1915. TO ALL CREDITORS: * NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, RICHARD L. GRANT, died August 12, 2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to RICHARD E. GRANT, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 WEST COURT, SUITE 302, HASTINGS, MI 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. October, 19 2012 DAVID H. TRIPP P29290 206 SOUTH BROADWAY HASTINGS, MI 49058 (269) 945-9585 RICHARD E. GRANT 4868 EAST CLOVERDALE ROAD HASTINGS, MI 49058 77571987 (269) 758-3079 STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Trust In the Matter of John W. Rodgers and Hildah I. Rodgers Trust u/t/a dated February 14, 2000. Date of Birth: December 2, 1928 – John W. Rodgers. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, John W. Rodgers, surviving Trustee, died October 1, 2012 leaving the above trust entitled “John W. Rodgers and Hildah I. Rodgers Trust” in full force and effect. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the decedent or against the Trust will be forever barred unless presented to William J. Rodgers within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: October 18, 2012 Law Weathers Stephanie S. Fekkes P43549 150 W. Court Street Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 945-1921 William J. Rodgers 2501 Ragla Road Hastings, MI 49058 77571923 (269) 945-3057 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-26220-DE Estate of Gail Richard Tandy. Date of Birth: December 7, 1937. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Gail Richard Tandy, died October 11, 2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Gregory Allen Tandy, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court Street, Ste. 302, Hastings, MI 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: October 19, 2012 Law Weathers Stephanie S. Fekkes P43549 150 W. Court Street Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 945-1921 Gregory Allen Tandy 1245 N. Norris Road Middleville, MI 49333 77571933 (269) 795-3878 SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by PHIL W. HART, AN UNMARRIED MAN, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated June 16, 2011, and recorded on June 30, 2011, in Document No. 201106300006442, and assigned by said mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-One Thousand Six Hundred Forty-Five Dollars and Forty-Seven Cents ($91,645.47), including interest at 4.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on November 8, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: THAT PORTION OF THE NORTH 1 / 2 OF THE NORTH 1 / 2 OF THE NORTHEAST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 21, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST, LYING WEST OF THE HIGHWAY, EXCEPT 2 ACRES ON THE SOUTH SIDE, BALTIMORE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 JPMC.000851 CONV (10-11)(1177571652 01) SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by ROBIN M. ELWEN, A SINGLE WOMAN, to EXCHANGE FINANCIAL CORPORATION, Mortgagee, dated July 17, 2003, and recorded on July 28, 2003, in Document No. 1109466, and rerecorded on September 9, 2003 in Document No./Liber 1112854 and assigned by said mortgagee to MICHIGAN STATE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty Thousand One Hundred Seventeen Dollars and Thirty-Two Cents ($60,117.32), including interest at 4.500% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on November 8, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: THE NORTH 74 1 / 2 FEET OF LOT 4 OF BLOCK 4 OF H.J. KENFIELD'S, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN LIBER 1 OF PLATS, PAGE (S) 9 OF BARRY COUNTY RECORDS. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. MICHIGAN STATE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 USBW.001780 FHA 77571657 (10-11)(11-01) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by James Bradley and Nancy Bradley, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Household Finance Corporation III, Mortgagee, dated October 28, 2004, and recorded on November 3, 2004 in instrument 1136631, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Five Thousand Six Hundred Fourteen and 30/100 Dollars ($95,614.30). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on November 15, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A Parcel of land located in the Northwest 1/4 of section 21; Town 1 North, Range 8 West, Beginning at a point which lies North 05 degrees 20 minutes West 75.00 feet from the Northwest corner of Lot 10, Arnetts Resort; thence North 85 degrees 43 minutes West 273.82 feet, thence North 05 degrees 20 minutes West 70.16 feet for the place of beginning; thence South 05 degrees 20 minutes East 70.16 feet, thence North 85 degrees 43 minutes West 30.83 feet; thence North 89 degrees 9 minutes West 30 feet; thence North 5 degrees 20 minutes West to a point which lies North 83 degrees 34 minutes West of the plat of beginning, thence South 83 degrees 34 minutes East to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: October 18, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #409653F01 77571662 (10-18)(11-08) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Carl Forsythe, an unmarried man and Tammy L. Peters, an unmarried woman to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for America's Wholesale Lender its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated August 17, 2006 and recorded August 28, 2006 in Instrument # 1169197 Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage was assigned to: BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, LP, by assignment dated March 29, 2011 and recorded April 15, 2011 in Instrument # 201104150004237 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Seventy-Two Thousand Six Hundred Twenty Dollars and NinetyFive Cents ($172,620.95) including interest 7.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on November 29, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The East 132 feet of the West 30 acres of the North one half of the Southeast one quarter of Section 32, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, except the North 583 feet thereof; also the South 208.71 feet of the West 181 feet of the East 313 feet thereof. Also a strip of land described as: The North one half of the Southeast one quarter of Section 32, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, except the West 30 acres thereof. Also except the East 50 acres thereof. Commonly known as 11377 Davis Rd, Middleville MI 49333 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 10/25/2012 Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, LP, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File 77572033 No: 12-69983 (10-25)(11-15) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Daniel L. Kramer, a married man, and Patricia L. Kramer, a married woman, original mortgagor(s), to Union Federal Bank of Indianapolis, Mortgagee, dated May 8, 2003, and recorded on May 15, 2003 in instrument 1104418, and assigned by said Mortgagee to MidFirst Bank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Six Thousand Seven Hundred Nineteen and 15/100 Dollars ($96,719.15). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on November 8, 2012. Said premises are situated in Hickory Corners, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the Township of Bary, County of Barry, State of Michigan: The West 443 feet of the South 1009 feet of the East 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 35, Town 1 North, Range 9 West The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: October 11, 2012 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #403049F02 77571498 (10-11)(11-01) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Dianne L. Schwiegershausen, An Unmarried Woman, original mortgagor(s), to Centex Home Equity Company, LLC, Mortgagee, dated May 4, 2005, and recorded on May 11, 2005 in instrument 1146275, and modified by Affidavit or Order executed on March 31, 2010 and recorded on April 12, 2010 in instrument 201004120003830, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Four Thousand Two Hundred Sixty-Seven and 19/100 Dollars ($124,267.19). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on November 1, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Woodland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The North 12 rods and 10 feet of the Northeast one quarter of the Northeast one quarter of Section 7, Town 4 North, Range 7 West, except the East 12 Rod and 10 feet thereof. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: October 4, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #188791F02 77571381 (10-04)(10-25) Case No. 12-141-CH CIRCUIT COURT SALE In pursuance and by virtue of a Judgment of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on the 17th day of July A.D., 2012 in a certain cause therein pending, wherein THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-9 was the Plaintiff and Teresa Herlein and Duane T. Herlein were the Defendants. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that I shall sell at public auction to the highest bidder, at public venue, at the Barry County Courthouse (that being the place of holding the Circuit Court for said County), on the 29th day of November, A.D., 2012 at 1 pm o’clock in the forenoon, Eastern Standard Time, the following described property, viz: All certain piece or parcel of land situated in the Township of Thornapple, County of Barry and State of Michigan, described as follows: Lot 8, Near Lane Estates No. 1, as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats, Page 7, Barry County Records Tax ID: 14-140-0008-00 Commonly known as: 12942 Near Lane, Caledonia, MI 49316 This property may be redeemed during the six (6) months following the sale. Dated: October 4, 2012 Mark Sheldon Deputy Sheriff Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Ronald S. Glaser (P46986) Attorneys for Plaintiff 43252 Woodward Ave., Suite 180 Bloomfield Hills, MI 77571391 48302 (248) 335-9200 (10-04)(11-15) THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. MORTGAGE SALE--Default has been made in the conditions of a Mortgage made by TIMOTHY LEE COLBURN AND JEANETTE ELLEN NORRIS, a single man and a single woman, Mortgagors, to NPB MORTGAGE, LLC, Mortgagee, dated September 13, 2005, and recorded September 19, 2005, Instrument Number 1153020, of Barry County Records, Michigan, which mortgage has been assigned by mesne assignments to First National Acceptance Company, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due as of the date of this notice $77,593.57, including interest at 12.95% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to the statutes of the State of Michigan, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public auction to the highest bidder, on Thursday, November 15, 2012, at 1 o’clock in the afternoon, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, Michigan. Said premises are situated in the Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 16 of Sundago Park, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, Page 71, Barry County Records; c/k/a 82 Sundago Park, Hastings, MI 49058 The redemption period shall be six months from the date of the sale, unless the premises are determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days. Please be advised that if the mortgaged property is sold at a foreclosure sale by advertisement, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 you will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale, or to the mortgage holder, for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: October 18, 2012 LeVasseur Dyer & Associates, PC Attorneys for Mortgagee Assignee P.O. Box 721400 Berkley, MI 48072 (248) 586-1200 77571824 (10-18)(11-08) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Scott Edgerton, A Single Man to Ameriquest Mortgage Company, Mortgagee, dated September 1, 2004 and recorded September 13, 2004 in Instrument # 1133833 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned through mesne assignments to: HouseHold Finance Corporation, III, by assignment dated February 24, 2012 and recorded February 27, 2012 in Instrument # 201202270001953 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy Thousand Eight Hundred Fifty-Two Dollars and Fifty-One Cents ($70,852.51) including interest at 8.30% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on November 1, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot number eight (8) of Vickery's Lakeside Park, in the Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof and Lot nine(9) and the East seventy-four (74) feet of lot number thirty-four (34), all of Vickery's Lakeside Park, in the Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded Plat thereof. Subject to conditions, restrictions and easements of record. Commonly known as 1173 Cottage nka 10144 Cottage and 857 Watts, Dowling MI 49050 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated:10/4/2012 HouseHold Finance Corporation, III, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-66423 77571435 (10-04)(10-25) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 25, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Curtis M. Kenyon, A Married Man and Melisaa L. Kenyon, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 2, 2005, and recorded on August 12, 2005 in instrument 1151038, and assigned by said Mortgagee to THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-12 as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-One Thousand Five Hundred Sixty-Five and 25/100 Dollars ($81,565.25). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on November 1, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Castleton, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land in the West one half of the Southwest one quarter of Section 28, Town 3 North, Range 7 West, described as beginning at the Southwest corner of said Section 28, thence North along the Center of the Highway 676 feet thence East 40 rods, thence South to the Center of Gregg's Crossing Road, thence West 40 rods to Place of Beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: October 4, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #412056F01 77571376 (10-04)(10-25) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage, made by MADISON D. HOWELL AND LINDA L. HOWELL, husband and wife, whose address is 3070 Madilin Lane, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagor, to MAINSTREET SAVINGS BANK, whose address was 629 W. State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as assigned in the Barry County Register of Deeds to Daemeon Richards and Jennifer Richards, whose address is P.O. Box 53, Hastings, Michigan 49058, and securing that certain Note between Madison D. Howell and Linda L. Howell, as Debtor and MainStreet Savings Bank, as Creditor, dated September 16, 2005, November 29, 2005 and May 6, 2003, and pursuant to that certain guarantee wherein Mortgagor, Madison D. Howell and Linda L. Howell, guaranteed the Note mentioned above and secured the guarantee with Mortgage described above. There is claimed to be due thereon, at the date of this notice, for principal and interest, the sum of SEVEN HUNDRED TWENTY-NINE THOUSAND EIGHT HUNDRED FIFTY-FOUR AND 25/100($729,854.25) Dollars with interest at the rate of 7.75%, as secured by the above-referenced mortgage as of this date. There also shall be attorney’s fees, unpaid real estate taxes and costs. And no proceedings having been instituted to recover the debt now remaining secured by said Mortgage, or any part thereof, whereby the power of sale contained in said Mortgage has become operative; NOW, THEREFORE, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that by virtue of the Power of Sale contained in said Mortgages, and in pursuance of the statute in such case made and provided, the above said Mortgage, will be foreclosed by a sale of the parcels of the premises therein described, or so much thereof as may be necessary, at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse, County of Barry, Michigan, that being the place of holding the Circuit Court in and for said County on the 15th day of November, 2012, at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, of said day and said premises will be sold to pay the amount so as aforesaid then due on said Mortgage, together with interest payable at the rate of 7.75%, together with late fees, legal costs, attorneys fees and also any taxes and insurance that said Mortgagee does pay on or prior to the date of said sale together with interest thereon as though on an open account at the rate of 5% per annum; which said premises are described in said Mortgage, to-wit: THE NORTH 1/2 OF THE WEST 1/2 OF THE SOUTH 1/2 OF THE NORTHEAST 1\4 OF SECTION 30, TOWN 4 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST, CARLTON TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN. The period of redemption will be six (6) months from date of sale. Dated: October 9, 2012 Nathan E. Tagg, Attorney for Daemeon and Jennifer Richards Drafted by: Nathan E. Tagg (P68994) Tripp & Tagg, Attorneys at Law 206 South Broadway Hastings, Michigan 49058 77571632 (269) 948-2900 IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Virgil D. Walters Jr and Judy L. Walters, husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated October 22, 2004 and recorded November 15, 2004 in Instrument Number 1137258, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Wells Fargo Bank, NA by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Three Thousand Nine Hundred Forty-Three and 90/100 Dollars ($93,943.90) including interest at 6.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 11/08/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Barry County, Michigan: The South 209.00 feet of the North 627.00 feet of the East 365.00 feet of the Northeast 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 25, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, Hope Township, Barry County, Michigan. subject to the right of way over the East 33 feet thereof for Gurd Road. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: October 11, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 326.9846 77571607 (10-11)(11-01) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Shane S.A. Gerard, a single man, to NPB Mortgage, LLC, Mortgagee, dated August 27, 2007 and recorded September 12, 2007 in Instrument Number 20070912-0001949, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Cenlar FSB by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fourteen Thousand Eight Hundred Thirty-Four and 79/100 Dollars ($114,834.79) including interest at 7.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 11/01/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Yankee Springs, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The East 85.27 feet of Lot 27, and the West 23 feet of Lot 28, Supervisor's Plat Number 1, Yankee Springs Township, Barry County, Michigan, as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, Page 77. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: October 4, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 275.0708 (10-04)(10-25) 77571445 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTENTION PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE: Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage by Theodore Smith, a single man, original mortgagor(s), to Kellogg Community Federal Credit Union, Mortgagee, dated April 15, 2009, and recorded on April 21, 2009, at Instrument No. 20090421-0004312, in Barry County records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Eighty-Seven Thousand Three Hundred Forty-Nine and 34/100 Dollars ($187,349.34), including interest at 6.0% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the lobby of the Barry County Circuit Court, 220 West State Street, Hastings, MI 49058 on Thursday, November 8, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. Said premises is situated in the Township of Johnstown, County of Barry, Michigan, and described as: Commencing at the center of Section 34, Town 1 North, Range 8 West, Johnstown Township, Barry County, Michigan; Thence South 21 rods to the center of M-37; Thence Southerly in the center of highway 16 rods to the point of beginning; Thence East 968 feet; Thence Southerly parallel to the center line of highway 732 feet; Thence West 968 feet to the center of the highway; thence Northerly along the center of highway 732 feet to the point of beginning. PPN: 09-034-017-10 More Commonly Known As: 15591 S M-37 Hwy, Battle Creek, MI 49017 The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be thirty (30) days from the date of such sale. Dated: October 1, 2012 For more information, please call: KELLOGG COMMUNITY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION Mark D. Hofstee (P66001) Bolhouse, Baar & Lefere, P.C. Grandville State Bank Building 3996 Chicago Drive SW Grandville MI 49418-1384 77571339 (616) 531-7711 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage, made by MADISON D. HOWELL AND LINDA L. HOWELL, husband and wife, whose address is 3070 Madilin Lane, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagor, to MAINSTREET SAVINGS BANK, whose address was 629 W. State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as assigned in the Barry County Register of Deeds to Daemeon Richards and Jennifer Richards, whose address is P.O. Box 53, Hastings, Michigan 49058, and securing that certain Note between Madison D. Howell and Linda L. Howell, as Debtor and MainStreet Savings Bank, as Creditor, dated September 16, 2005, November 29, 2005 and May 6, 2003, and pursuant to that certain guarantee wherein Mortgagor, Madison D. Howell and Linda L. Howell, guaranteed the Note mentioned above and secured the guarantee with Mortgage described above. There is claimed to be due thereon, at the date of this notice, for principal and interest, the sum of SEVEN HUNDRED TWENTY-NINE THOUSAND EIGHT HUNDRED FIFTY-FOUR AND 25/100($729,854.25) Dollars with interest at the rate of 7.75%, as secured by the above-referenced mortgage as of this date. There also shall be attorney’s fees, unpaid real estate taxes and costs. And no proceedings having been instituted to recover the debt now remaining secured by said Mortgage, or any part thereof, whereby the power of sale contained in said Mortgage has become operative; NOW, THEREFORE, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that by virtue of the Power of Sale contained in said Mortgages, and in pursuance of the statute in such case made and provided, the above said Mortgage, will be foreclosed by a sale of the parcels of the premises therein described, or so much thereof as may be necessary, at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse, County of Barry, Michigan, that being the place of holding the Circuit Court in and for said County on the 15th day of November, 2012, at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, of said day and said premises will be sold to pay the amount so as aforesaid then due on said Mortgage, together with interest payable at the rate of 7.75%, together with late fees, legal costs, attorneys fees and also any taxes and insurance that said Mortgagee does pay on or prior to the date of said sale together with interest thereon as though on an open account at the rate of 5% per annum; which said premises are described in said Mortgage, to-wit: THE EAST 1/2 OF THE SOUTH 1/2 OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 30, TOWN 4 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST, CARLTON TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, EXCEPTING THEREFROM THE FOLLOWING: PART OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 30, TOWN 4 NORTH, CARLTON TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: COMMENCING AT THE EAST 1/4 CORNER OF SAID SECTION; THENCE NORTH 00°37’24” EAST 542.33 FEET ALONG THE EAST LINE OF SAID SECTION TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE NORTH 89°22’36” WEST 309.60 FEET; THENCE NORTH 00°18’04” WEST 265.03 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 89°22’36” EAST 313.87 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 00°37’24” WEST 265.00 FEET ALONG THE EAST LINE OF SAID SECTION TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING; NOW BEING A PART OF RED OAK ESTATES CONDOMINIUM, ACCORDING TO THE MASTER DEED RECORDED IN DOCUMENT NO. 1136354, AND AMENDMENTS THERETO, EXCEPTING THEREFROM UNITS 5, 6, 10, 11, 12 AND 13. The period of redemption will be six (6) months from date of sale. Dated: October 9, 2012 Nathan E. Tagg, Attorney for Daemeon and Jennifer Richards Drafted by: Nathan E. Tagg (P68994) Tripp & Tagg, Attorneys at Law 206 South Broadway Hastings, Michigan 49058 77571637 (269) 948-2900 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Arthur W. Moredick and Dianne M. Weers, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to ABN AMRO Mortgage Group, Inc., Mortgagee, dated March 18, 2005, and recorded on April 15, 2005 in instrument 1144932, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-Five Thousand Seven Hundred Six and 19/100 Dollars ($165,706.19). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on November 8, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot(s) 3, Algonquin Shores Plat, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats, Page 55. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: October 11, 2012 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #411228F01 77571510 (10-11)(11-01) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF A MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on September 19, 2006, by Daniel R. Welton and Judith Welton, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, given by them to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on October 17, 2006, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 1171503, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank by an Assignment of Mortgage dated November 15, 2011, recorded on December 1, 2011, in Instrument Number 201112010011202, Barry County Records, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of One Hundred Seventy Thousand One Hundred Ninety-Eight and 08/100 Dollars ($170,198.08); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, November 29, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF HASTINGS, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: Parcel “K”: Commencing at the North quarter post of Section 5, Town 3 North, Range 8 West; thence West along the North line of said Section, 1502.00 feet; thence South 47.67 feet to the centerline of Coats Grove Road; thence 335.05 feet along said centerline and the Arc of a curve to the left the radius of which is 358.10 feet and the chord of which bears South 38 degrees 08 minutes 10 seconds West 322.95 feet; thence continuing along said centerline South 11 degrees 20 minutes 00 seconds West 146.76 feet; thence continuing 169.62 feet along said centerline and the arc of a curve to the right the radius of which is 996.45 feet and the chord of which bears South 16 degrees 12 minutes 37 seconds West 169.43 feet to the true place of beginning; thence continuing 98.04 feet along said centerline and the arc of a curve to the right the radius of which is 996.45 feet and the chord of which bears South 23 degrees 54 minutes 20 seconds West 98 feet; thence North 73 degrees 30 minutes 34 seconds West 247.74 feet to an intermediate traverse line of the shore of Leach Lake; thence North 56 degrees 51 minutes 42 seconds East along said intermediate traverse line 137.21 feet; thence South 64 degrees 57 minutes 21 seconds East 86.06 feet; thence South 77 degrees 06 minutes 50 seconds East 86.58 feet to the place of beginning. Including lands lying between said traverse line and the waters of Leach Lake. Formerly Described as: A parcel of land in the Northwest fractional quarter of Section 5, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, described as: Commencing at the Southeast corner of Leach Lake Plat, according to the recorded Plat thereof, said point being 1376 feet West of the North quarter post of said Section 5; thence South 69 degrees 45 minutes West 326 feet; thence South 47 degrees West 69 half feet; thence South 36 degrees West 441 feet; thence South 21 degrees West 75 feet; thence South 16 degrees West 265 feet; thence Southwesterly along the highway 100 feet for the beginning; thence continuing Southerly along said highway 100 feet; thence West to the Shore of Leach Lake; thence Northerly along said Lake Shore to a point West of the place of beginning; thence East to the place of beginning. Commonly known as: 120 Coats Grove Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058-9509 Parcel Number: 08-06-005-042-00 The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: October 10, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, 77571813 MI 48933 (517) 371-8253 (10-18)(11-08) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Russell W. Gleason and Wendy M. Gleason, husband and wife to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systms, Inc., as nominee for Regions Bank, its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated January 15, 2004 and recorded January 28, 2004 in Instrument # 1121392 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: Household Finance Corporation III, by assignment dated March 15, 2012 and recorded March 19, 2012 in Instrument # 201203190002759 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Six Thousand Eight Hundred Ninety-Eight Dollars and Forty-One Cents ($86,898.41) including interest 7.45% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on November 15, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That part of the Northwest one-fourth of the Northeast one-fourth of section 21, Town 1 North, Range 8 West, Described as: The East 12 Rods of the Northwest one-fourth of the Northeast one-fourth of section 21, Town 1 North, Range 8 West. Commonly known as 1801 Mill Lake Rd, Battle Creek MI 49017 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 10/18/2012 Household Finance Corporation III, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our 77571792 File No: 12-67167 (10-18)(11-08) NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT; ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY SERVICE PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW. Notice under MCL 600.3278: Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale under MCL 600.3201 et. seq., the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. ATTENTION POTENTIAL PURCHASERS AT FORECLOSURE SALE: In the case of resolution prior to or simultaneously with the aforementioned foreclosure sale, U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate Trust 1999-2, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents, may rescind this sale at any time prior to the end of the redemption period. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited to the return of your bid amount tendered at the sale, plus interest. Default having occurred in the conditions of a Mortgage made by Ruth A. Eggleston and Terry L. Eggleston ("Mortgagor"), to Green Tree Servicing LLC (f/k/a Green Tree Financial Servicing Corporation), dated October 9, 1998, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry in the State of Michigan on October 12, 1998, in Document Number 1019220, et. seq., said Mortgage being last assigned to U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate Trust 1999-2 ("Green Tree"), by Mortgage Assignment dated April 2, 2012, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry in the State of Michigan on April 11, 2012, in Document Number 201204120004425, et. seq., on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due as of the date of this Notice the sum of $120,631.10, which amount may or may not be the entire indebtedness owed by Debtors to Green Tree together with interest at 6.75 percent per annum. NOW THEREFORE, Notice is hereby given that the power of sale contained in said Mortgage has become operative and that pursuant to that power of sale and MCL 600.3201 et. seq., on November 15, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., on the East steps of the Circuit Court Building in Hastings, Michigan, that being the place for holding the Circuit Court and/or for conducting such foreclosure sales for the County of Barry, there will be offered at public sale, the premises, or some part thereof, described in said Mortgage as follows, to-wit: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF RUTLAND, COUNTY OF BARRY, STATE OF MICHIGAN, IS DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE SOUTH LINE OF SECTION 9, TOWN 3 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, DISTANT SOUTH 89 DEGREES 07' 54" WEST, 439.05 FEET FROM THE SOUTH 1/4 POST OF SAID SECTION 9; THENCE SOUTH 89 DEGREES 07' 54" WEST, 439.06 FEET ALONG SAID SOUTH LINE; THENCE NORTH 02 DEGREES 49' 32" WEST, 791.67 FEET; THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES 13' 22" EAST, 439.35 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 02 DEGREES 48' 24" EAST, 790.97 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING; SUBJECT TO AN EASEMENT FOR PUBLIC HIGHWAY PURPOSES OVER THE SOUTHERLY 33 FEET THEREOF. which also includes any interest Green Tree may have in the 1998 MFGD Housing Mobile Home, Serial Number M0308512. The redemption period shall be six (6) months unless the property is established to be abandoned pursuant to MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of sale or fifteen (15) days from the date the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(b) was posted and mailed, or unless under MCL 600.3240(17), prior to the foreclosure sale the borrower follows the procedure set forth in that section to establish the presumption that the property is used for Agricultural purposes, in which case the redemption period shall be one (1) year from the date of the sale. Dated: October 4, 2012 U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate PassThrough Certificate Trust 1999-2, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents By: DONALD A. BRANDT (P30183) BRANDT, FISHER, ALWARD & PEZZETTI, P.C. Attorneys for Green Tree 1241 E. Eighth Street, P.O. Box 5817 Traverse City, Michigan 49696-5817 (231) 941-9660 File No.: 6140.1100 Ad #39457 10/11, 10/18, 10/25, 77571568 11/01/2012 �Page 12 — Thursday, October 25, 2012 — The Hastings Banner State News Roundup The class of 2011, the first group of students exposed to the Michigan Merit Curriculum for their entire high school careers, saw mixed results. The introduction of the merit curriculum reduced graduation rates slightly for students who entered high school with weak academic skills, according to an analysis released Monday by the Michigan Consortium for Educational Research. For those who entered with strong skills, the curriculum did not have an impact on their high school completion rates. The consortium is a partnership between the University of Michigan, Michigan State University and the State of Michigan. The results of the research were presented at a conference at the Kellogg Center in East Lansing Monday. Performance on standardized tests rose slightly for students who entered high school with strong skills. The impact on test scores was small or negative for those who entered high school with weak skills. The best-prepared students saw better performance in science, reading and math. All students experienced declines in writing scores. Results show that the merit curriculum reduced the five-year graduation rate among lower-achieving students by approximately 4.5 percentage points (from 49 percent to 44.5 percent). The merit curriculum also appears to have prompted some students to extend their stay in high school beyond the traditional four years, perhaps in an effort to meet the more rigorous curricular requirements. In 2006, Michigan adopted the merit curriculum, a set of high school graduation requirements that emphasize math and science. The goal was to increase the rigor of high school courses and better prepare students for college. The first students covered by the curriculum started ninth grade in fall 2007 and would have been scheduled for an on-time graduation in spring 2011. “These findings are for the first set of students subject to the new requirements. The results may change as schools and teachers gain experience with the curriculum,” said Susan Dynarski, a professor at U-M’s Ford School of Public Policy, School of Education and Department of Economics. “As more students complete their high school years, we will find out whether the curriculum boosts college attendance and success, a key goal of the reform.” Additional findings indicate large gaps across income groups and Michigan’s districts in high school graduation and college attendance. Four-year high school graduation rates range from less than 50 percent to over 90 percent across Michigan’s largest school districts. Fifty-seven percent of low-income freshmen graduate high school within four years, compared to 85 percent of students with higher incomes. And 31 percent of lowincome students attend college within five years of entering high school, compared to 61 percent of students with higher incomes. The merit curriculum also appears related to some personnel changes. Additional results released at the conference showed that the teaching staff at Michigan’s high schools has shifted toward merit curriculum subjects, with those teaching these topics rising from 58 percent in 2004 to 71 percent in 2011. “Between 2004 and 2011, the overall number of high school teachers in Michigan fell. However, with the introduction of the MMC it appears that schools and districts focused their limited resources on teachers who taught core academic subjects,” said Kenneth Frank, a professor at MSU’s College of Education. The merit curriculum requires that students take algebra 1, geometry and algebra 2, as well as biology 1 and either chemistry or physics. Students must take four years of English language arts and complete two years of a foreign language. The study used data from 700,000 students enrolled in Michigan’s public high schools to examine the effects of the merit curriculum. The research was funded by a grant by the Institute of Education Sciences in the U.S. Department of Education. The reports are available at the MCER website, www.michiganconsortium.org. New law gives disabled veterans free hunting and fishing licenses The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has announced that new, free hunting and fishing licenses will be available for disabled veterans beginning in March. House Bill 5292, signed into law by Gov. Rick Snyder last week, will allow a disabled veteran to obtain any resident hunting or fishing license for which a lottery is not required, free of charge. The veteran will be required to provide proof of eligibility and carry this proof when using any license obtained under this legislation. Under provisions of the law, the new licenses become available at the beginning of the next license year, which is March 1, 2013. Licenses cannot be obtained before that date. The law defines “disabled veteran” as a resident who either has been determined by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs to be permanently and totally disabled as a result of military service and entitled to veterans’ benefits at the 100-percent rate, for a disability other than blindness; or is rated by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs as individually unemployable. “Providing free licenses for disabled veterans is just a small token of our deep gratitude for their sacrifice for all of us,” said Denise Gruben, manager of licensing and reservations for the DNR. “We want veterans to be full participants in outdoor sports. We’re pleased to make these licenses available to qualifying veterans beginning next March under this new law.” 77571861 77571870 Michigan Merit Curriculum gets mixed reviews 77571867 For more information about Michigan hunting and fishing licenses, visit www.mdnrelicense.com. Michigan vendors not selling tobacco to minors The Michigan Department of Community Health, Bureau of Substance Abuse and Addiction Services have reported that a 2012 statewide survey during indicated that 89.3 percent of retailers did not sell tobacco products to youth under age 18. This is the sixth consecutive year in which Michigan vendors have been in compliance with the federal minimum rate of 80 percent. “Reducing tobacco use is a top priority for our state [since] it a major contributor to health issues, and in turn, chronic diseases,” said James K. Haveman, director of the MDCH. “Ensuring that Michigan tobacco vendors are not selling to youth is critical in preventing this addictive behavior and improving the overall wellness of our youth as they become adults.” All states and territories must conduct the survey using a scientific random sample study protocol, approved by the federal Center for Substance Abuse Prevention, and must demonstrate that its tobacco vendor compliance meets or exceeds the federal minimum compliance rate of 80 percent. During the summer of 2012, BSAAS conducted a statewide buying survey, with a sample of 558 from 9,498 establishments, to measure the rate of illegal sales of tobacco to Michigan youths. The survey involves visiting randomly selected outlets that sell tobacco products, either over-the-counter or through vending machines. A youth inspector will enter the outlet, attempt to make a tobacco purchase, and record the results. An adult chaperone drives the youth inspectors and oversees the purchase attempts. States that fall below the 80 percent minimum compliance rate are subject to a penalty of 40 percent from their federal Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Block Grant funding. For Michigan, this could be more than $23 million. “The business community and statewide partners are to be commended for not selling to minors, and for conducting high quality inspections,” said Haveman. For more information, visit www.michigan.gov/mdch-bsaas. Vandalism suspected at state fish hatchery On the morning of Friday, Oct. 5, Department of Natural Resources Fisheries Division staff at the Platte River State Fish Hatchery in Beulah arrived for work to find 5,700 coho salmon dead in one of the maturation ponds. While under investigation, all signs indicate the loss was from a late Thursday night vandalism act, as it appears the fish were forcibly crowded into a small area which blocked water flow through the screens and created conditions in which the dissolved oxygen concentrations became lethal. “This is the first time in 45 years where we have had this type of incident at this facility,” said Gary Whelan, DNR fish production manager. “It could have put our entire coho salmon program in serious jeopardy. The loss of this program would cost the state economy millions of dollars in revenue. We were exceptionally fortunate to have an above average coho salmon spawning run this year and will still have enough adults to fully meet our coho salmon egg take needs.” SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN Expert answers questions on retirement, fast track and benefits I’m doing more things online, including shopping and paying bills. What are some things I can do at www.socialsecurity.gov? Perhaps the most important thing you can do is to take a look at your Social Security statement, which allows you to check your earnings record and get an estimate of your future benefits. Revisit your statement annually, around your birthday, for example. If you’re ready to apply for benefits, you can do that online as well. Applying for Social Security retirement benefits online can take as little as 15 minutes. Once you’ve submitted your electronic applications, in most cases, you’re done. Also online, you can find more than 100 publications with information about Social Security and its programs. Most of these publications are also in Spanish, and some of the most popular are available in 14 other languages. You also can estimate your future retirement benefit using our retirement estimator, which allows you to get personalized estimates based on different retirement ages and scenarios. The possibilities are endless at www.socialsecurity.gov. I usually get my benefit payment on the third day of the month. What if the third falls on a Saturday, Sunday or holiday? Will my payment be late? Just the opposite. Your payment should arrive early. For example, if you usually get your payment on the third of a month, but it falls on a Saturday, like it does this November, we will make payments Friday, Nov. 2. Find more information about the payment schedule for 2012 online at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/calendar.htm. If you do ever miss a payment, be sure to wait three days before calling to report it missing. Of course, if you get your payments electronically, you’ll get your payment without having to wait for the mail. Find out more about electronic payments at www.godirect.org. I’m trying to decide when to retire. Can Social Security help? The best place to start is with a visit to the online Social Security statement. The statement provides you with estimates of benefits for you and your family as well as your earnings record and information you should consider about retirement and retirement planning. Find out more about the statement — and get yours — at www.socialsecurity.gov/mystatement. The “right” time to retire is different for everyone and depends on your individual situation. To help you make your own decision, we offer an online fact sheet with some of the factors to consider. Find it at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10147.html. I’ve decided I want to retire. Now what do I do? The fastest and easiest way to apply for retirement benefits is to go to www.socialsecurity.gov/onlineservices. Use our online application to apply for Social Security retirement or spouses benefits. To do so, you must be at least 61 years and 9 months old; want to start your benefits in the next four months; and live in the United States or one of its commonwealths or territories. My only income is Supplemental Security Income. My sister recently died and left me a little money. Will this extra money affect my SSI benefits? It depends on the amount. You must report the inheritance to Social Security by calling 800-772-1213. SSI is a needs-based program for people 65 or older, blind or disabled who have limited income and resources. We consider your inheritance as income for the month you received it. Accordingly, we may have to adjust your benefit for that month. If you keep the money into the next month, the money then becomes a part of your resources. A person with more than $2,000 or a couple with more than $3,000 in total resources cannot receive SSI, although there are exceptions. For more information, visit our website at www.socialsecurity.gov. 77571864 77571873 All of the dead coho salmon, which included 5,130 adult and 570 small jacks (yearlings), were salvaged by the AmericanCanadian Fisheries Inc., the contractor for the surplus salmon carcasses from DNR salmon weirs that are used in the fish meal industry. Additional security measures have been put in place to protect the remaining fish at this key egg take facility. “We would appreciate any information on this incident to assist us with our investigation. This information can be provided to any conservation officer or to the RAP hotline at 1-800-292-7800,” said Edward Eisch, Northern Lower Peninsula fish production manager. My mom receives Supplemental Security Income. She soon will be coming to live with me. Do we have to report the move to Social Security? Yes. She must report a change in living arrangements within 10 days of moving. The change may affect her benefit amount, and she could be penalized if she does not report the change on time. Also, we need her correct address so we can send correspondence, even if she receives her payments electronically. Please have your mom call Social Security, 800-772-1213. Visit our website for more information at www.socialsecurity.gov. I need to apply for disability benefits. Where do I start? Begin by looking at our Disability Starter Kit. You can find it online at www.socialsecurity.gov/disability/disability_starter_kits.ht m or you can request a copy by calling 800772-1213. The kit will help you prepare for your application and interview. When you are ready, you can apply online at www.socialsecurity.gov/applyfordisability or make an appointment to apply in person at a local Social Security office. Our online disability application is convenient and secure. Don’t stand in line, go online, at www.socialsecurity.gov. My husband has been in poor health for some time, and doctors have recently diagnosed him with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis – commonly referred to as Lou Gehrig’s Disease. I’ve heard Social Security has a “fast track” for some people who are disabled. Can you tell me about it? We have two processes to fast track applications for disability benefits. Our Compassionate Allowances initiative allows us to fast track certain cases of individuals with very severe disabilities. There are 165 different types of disabilities that qualify for this expedited decision, including ALS, and that list continues to expand. Learn more about Compassionate Allowances and see the full list of conditions at www.socialsecurity.gov/compassionateallowances. Another way we speed up decisions is with our Quick Disability Determinations initiative, which uses technology to identify applicants who have the most severe disabilities and allows us to expedite our decisions on those cases. Read more about Quick Disability Determinations at www.socialsecurity.gov/disabilityresearch/qdd.htm. My aunt is considering applying for Extra Help with Medicare Part D prescription drug costs, but she has about $10,000 in the bank. Would she still be eligible with this much money? Based on the resources you mentioned, it sounds like she may qualify. However, there are other factors to consider. In most cases, recipients of Extra Help are limited to $13,070 (or $26,120 if married and living with a spouse) in resources in 2012. Resources include the value of the things you own, such as real estate (other than the place you live), cash, bank accounts, stocks, bonds and retirement accounts. To learn more, visit the Medicare link, www.socialsecurity.gov, or call us, 800-772-1213. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 25, 2012 — Page 13 HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, Oct. 25 — So Many Books … book club discusses Vicious Cycle by Terry Blackstock, 1 to 2 p.m.; Movie Memories celebrates things that go bump in the night with “Bell, Book, and Candle,” starring James Stewart, 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 26 — preschool story time enjoys stories about Halloween, 10:30 to 11 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 30 — toddler story time enjoys “blanket stories,” 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30; open chess club, 6 to 8 p.m. Call the Hastings Public Library for more information, 269-945-4263. LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE TO CREDITORS RE: CLARENCE H. WHITE and ALETHA J. WHITE FAMILY REVOCABLE LIVING TRUST. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Aletha J. White, as sole surviving Grantor and Co-Trustee of said Trust, who lived at 1821 North East Street, Hastings, Michigan died July 30, 2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the Trust will be forever barred unless presented to Cynthia J. Wade, Successor Trustee, 5167 Nellies Lane, Charlotte, MI 48813 within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: October 17, 2012 David L. Smith P20636 133 South Cochran, P.O. Box 8 Charlotte, MI 48813 517-543-6401 Cynthia J. Wade 5167 Nellies Lane Charlotte, MI 48813 77571926 (517) 645-7831 • NOTICE • To the Qualified Electors of BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT A REGULAR ELECTION WILL BE HELD IN THE COUNTY OF BARRY, STATE OF MICHIGAN ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2012 The polls will be open from 7:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. Voting Precincts – Barry County, MI DELTON KELLOGG SCHOOLSs BALTIMORE TWP. 3100 E. Dowling Rd, Hastings Baltimore Township Hall BARRY TWP PRECINCT 2 155 E Orchard St, Delton Barry Township Hall JOHNSTOWN TWP 13641 S M37 Hwy, Battle Creek Johnstown Township Hall PRAIRIEVILLE TWP PRECINCT 1 10155 S Norris Rd, Delton Prairieville Township Hall YANKEE SPRINGS TWP PRECINCT 1 284 N Briggs Rd, Middleville Yankee Springs Twp Hall BARRY TWP PRECINCT 1 14505 S Kellogg School Rd Hickory Corners - Fire Station HOPE TWP 5463 S M43 Hwy, Hastings Hope Township Hall ORANGEVILLE TWP 7350 Lindsey Rd, Plainwell Orangeville Township Hall PRAIRIEVILLE TWP PRECINCT 2 11351 Lindsey Rd, Plainwell Pine Lake Fire Department YANKEE SPRINGS TWP PRECINCT 2 1425 S Payne Lake Rd Wayland MI 49348 Electors who wish to receive an Absentee Voter ballot for the election by mail may submit an AV application by 2:00 p.m. on November 3, 2012. Electors qualified to obtain an Absentee Voter Ballot for the election may vote in person in the Township/City Clerk’s office up to 4:00 p.m. on November 5, 2012. PENELOPE YPMA Baltimore Township Clerk 3100 E Dowling Rd Hastings MI 49058 Phone: 269-721-3502 Office Phone: 269-945-3228 Home DEBRA KNIGHT Barry Township Clerk 155 E Orchard St. P O Box 705 Delton MI 49046 Phone 269-623-5171 DEBBY JACKSON Hope Township Clerk 5463 S M43 Hwy Hastings MI 49058 Phone: 269-948-2464 JUNE DOSTER Johnstown Township Clerk 1815 Lacey Rd, Dowling MI 49050 Phone: 269-721-9905 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the following offices will appear on the all the ballots: JENNIFER GOY Orangeville Township Clerk 7350 Lindsey Rd Plainwell MI 49080 Phone: 269-664-4522 77571583 STATE OF MICHIGAN BARRY COUNTY 58B DISTRICT COURT PUBLICATION OF NOTICE OF SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT FILE NO. 12-557-GC In the matter of John Fechner v Allicia Lupnitz. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS including: Allicia Lupnitz whose address(es) are unknown and whose interest in the matter may be barred or affected by the following: TAKE NOTICE: A Summons and Third Party Complaint were filed on August 23, 2012 in the 56B District Court, 206 West Court Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 before Judge Michael L. Schipper. Defendant has 28 days to file an answer with the court and serve a copy on the other party or to take other lawful action. If an answer is not file or other action taken within the time allowed, judgment may be entered against Defendant for the relief demanded in the complaint. Stephanie S. Fekkes P43549 Law, Weathers & Richardson, P.C. 800 Bridgewater Place 333 Bridge Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, Michigan 49504-5320 77571989 (616) 459-1171 JANICE LIPPERT Yankee Springs Township Clerk 284 N Briggs Rd Middleville MI 49333 Phone: 269-795-9091 Judge of Court of Appeals (partial term) Judge of Circuit Court (partial term) Judge of District Court Judge of Probate Court President/Vice President U. S. Senator U. S. Representative 3rd District 87th District State Representative State Board of Education Regent of the University of Michigan Trustee of Michigan State University Governor of Wayne State University County Prosecutor County Sheriff County Clerk County Treasurer County Register of Deeds County Drain Commissioner County Surveyor County Commissioner Justice of the Supreme Court of Michigan Justice of the Supreme Court of Michigan (partial term) Judge of Court of Appeals THE FOLLOWING OFFICES WILL APPEAR on the various township ballots: Township Supervisor Township Clerk Township Treasurer Township Trustee Prairieville Township Parks Commissioner Yankee Springs Constable Baltimore: Dowling Public Library Board Director Johnstown: Dowling Public Library Board Director IN ADDITION, THE FOLLOWING WILL APPEAR ON THE APPROPRIATE SCHOOL DISTRICT BALLOTS: Delton Kellogg Schools two (2) members for four (4) year terms expiring 12/31/2016 PROPOSAL 12-4 THE FOLLOWING PROPOSALS will appear on all ballots: A PROPOSAL TO AMEND THE STATE CONSTITUTION TO ESTABLISH THE MICHIGAN QUALITY HOME CARE COUNCIL AND PROVIDE COLLECTIVE BARGAINING FOR IN-HOME CARE WORKERS PROPOSAL 12-1 Case No. 12-109-CH CIRCUIT COURT SALE In pursuance and by virtue of a Judgment of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on the 23rd day of August, A.D., 2012 in a certain cause therein pending, wherein The Bank of New York Mellon fka The Bank of New York, as Trustee for the Certificateholders of CWABS, Inc., Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2004-10 was the Plaintiff and Stephen Vandermade, Tracy Vandermade, Household Finance Corporation III the Defendant(s). NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that I shall sell at public auction to the highest bidder, at public venue, at the Barry County Circuit Court (that being the place of holding the Circuit Court for said County), on the 6th day of December, A.D., 2012 at 1:00 o’clock in the afternoon, Eastern Standard Time, the following described property, viz: All certain piece or parcel of land situated in the City of Hastings, County of Barry and State of Michigan, described as follows: Lot 80 of Hastings Heights, according to the recorded Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 41. Tax I.D. 08-55-055048-00 Commonly known as: 1527 North Michigan Avenue, Hastings, MI 49058 This property may be redeemed during the six (6) months following the sale. Dated: October 11, 2012 Sheriff Dar Leaf Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Ronald S. Glaser (P46986) Attorneys for Plaintiff 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 (248) 335-9200 (10-11)(11-22) TED DEVRIES Prairieville Township Clerk 10115 S Norris Rd, Delton MI 49046 Phone: 269-623-2664 A REFERENDUM ON PUBLIC ACT 4 OF 2011 – THE EMERGENCY MANAGER LAW Public Act 4 of 2011 would: This proposal would: • Establish criteria to assess the financial condition of local government units, including school districts. • Allow in-home care workers to bargain collectively with the Michigan Quality Home Care Council (MQHCC). Continue the current exclusive representative of in-home care workers until modified in accordance with labor laws. • Authorize Governor to appoint an emergency manager (EM) upon state finding of a financial emergency, and allow the EM to act in place of local government officials. • Require EM to develop financial and operating plans, which may include modification or termination of contracts, reorganization of government, and determination of expenditures, services, and use of assets until the emergency is resolved. • Alternatively, authorize state-appointed review team to enter into a local government approved consent decree. • Require MQHCC to provide training for in-home care workers, create a registry of workers who pass background checks, and provide financial services to patients to manage the cost of in-home care. • Preserve patients’ rights to hire in-home care workers who are not referred from the MQHCC registry who are bargaining unit members. • Authorize the MQHCC to set minimum compensation standards and terms and conditions of employment. Should this law be approved? Should this proposal be approved? PROPOSAL 12-2 PROPOSAL 12-5 A PROPOSAL TO AMEND THE STATE CONSTITUTION REGARDING COLLECTIVE BARGAINING A PROPOSAL TO AMEND THE STATE CONSTITUTION TO LIMIT THE ENACTMENT OF NEW TAXES BY STATE GOVERNMENT This proposal would: This proposal would: • Grant public and private employees the constitutional right to organize and bargain collectively through labor unions. Require a 2/3 majority vote of the State House and the State Senate, or a statewide vote of the people at a November election, in order for the State of Michigan to impose new or additional taxes on taxpayers or expand the base of taxation or increasing the rate of taxation. • Invalidate existing or future state or local laws that limit the ability to join unions and bargain collectively, and to negotiate and enforce collective bargaining agreements, including employees’ financial support of their labor unions. Laws may be enacted to prohibit public employees from striking. • Override state laws that regulate hours and conditions of employment to the extent that those laws conflict with collective bargaining agreements. This section shall in no way be construed to limit or modify tax limitations otherwise created in this Constitution. Should this proposal be approved? PROPOSAL 12-6 • Define “employer” as a person or entity employing one or more employees. A PROPOSAL TO AMEND THE STATE CONSTITUTION REGARDING CONSTRUCTION OF INTERNATIONAL BRIDGES AND TUNNELS Should this proposal be approved? PROPOSAL 12-3 This proposal would: A PROPOSAL TO AMEND THE STATE CONSTITUTION TO ESTABLISH A STANDARD FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY • Require the approval of a majority of voters at a statewide election and in each municipality where “new international bridges or tunnels for motor vehicles” are to be located before the State of Michigan may expend state funds or resources for acquiring land, designing, soliciting bids for, constructing, financing, or promoting new international bridges or tunnels. This proposal would: • Require electric utilities to provide at least 25% of their annual retail sales of electricity from renewable energy sources, which are wind, solar, biomass, and hydropower, by 2025. • Limit to not more than 1% per year electric utility rate increases charged to consumers only to achieve compliance with the renewable energy standard. • Allow annual extensions of the deadline to meet the 25% standard in order to prevent rate increases over the 1% limit. • Create a definition of “new international bridges or tunnels for motor vehicles” that means, “any bridge or tunnel which is not open to the public and serving traffic as of January 1, 2012.” Should this proposal be approved? THE FOLLOWING PROPOSAL WILL APPEAR on all ballots in the Delton Kellogg Schools’ district: DELTON KELLOGG SCHOOLS OPERATING MILLAGE RENEWAL PROPOSAL EXEMPTING PRINCIPAL RESIDENCE AND OTHER PROPERTY EXEMPTED BY LAW 18 MILLS FOR 2 YEARS • Require the legislature to enact additional laws to encourage the use of Michigan made equipment and employment of Michigan residents. Should this proposal be approved? Full text of the ballot proposal may be obtained at the administrative offices of Delton Kellogg Schools, 327 North Grove Street, Delton MI 49046. Telephone: 269-623-9246. An absent voter ballot by mail may be applied for any time before 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 3, 2012. Electors qualified to obtain an Absentee Voter Ballot for the election may vote in person in the Township/City Clerk’s office up to 4:00 p.m. on November 5, 2012. Please contact your Township or City Clerk for further information. QUALIFICATIONS TO VOTE STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 2012-26178-DE Estate of CARL MAYNARD RANDALL. Date of Birth: November 10, 1925. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: the decedent, CARL MAYNARD RANDALL, died January 10, 2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to GLORIA TIPTON, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 WEST COURT, SUITE 302, HASTINGS, MI 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 10/18/12 DAVID H. TRIPP P29290 206 SOUTH BROADWAY HASTINGS, MI 49058 (269) 945-9585 GLORIA TIPTON 511 EMERALD NE GRAND RAPIDS, MI 49503 77572011 (616) 980-6647 Citizen of the United States At least 18 years of age on or before November 6, 2012 Resident of Michigan and the township/city where you are registered to vote. *************************************** Persons with special needs, as defined in the Americans with Disabilities Act, should contact the Township Clerk. Persons who are deaf, hard of hearing or speech impaired may place a call through the Michigan Relay Center TDD#1-800-649-3777. YOU MUST BE REGISTERED TO QUALIFY AS A VOTER! Pamela A. Jarvis, Barry County Clerk 77571985 See us for color copies, one-hour photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits �Page 14 — Thursday, October 25, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Area Halloween events begin Saturday Various churches and other organizations are planning Halloween-related activities in the coming days. Below is listed information that has been sent to J-Ad Graphics. Dowling/Lacey area • Country Chapel United Methodist Church in Dowling will host its annual Trunk-orTreat Children’s Halloween Party Saturday, Oct. 27, at 6 p.m. Costume pictures, prizes, games and snacks are planned for the event at the church, 9275 S. M-37 Highway, Dowling, MI. For more information, call 269-721-8077 or check the website www.countrychapelumc.org. • Pleasantview Family Church, at 2601 Lacey Road, also will host a trunk-or-treat, beginning at 6 p.m. Oct. 27. The Johnston Township Fire station will be a site for trunk-or-treating Wednesday, Oct. 31, from 5 to 8 p.m. The station is at 13641 M-37 Highway. Hastings Green Street between South Broadway and Cass Street from 4:45 to 8:15 will be closed to all major vehicle traffic from 4:45 to 8:15 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 31 to allow children and families to safely trick-or-treat. Volunteers will man the barricades at each intersection along that portion of the street to allow Green Street residents and emergency vehciles access to the street as needed. The First Presbyterian Church of Hastings will host Fall Fun Day Carnival (formerly trunk-or-treat) Saturday, Oct. 27, from 2 to 3:30 in the fellowship hall at the church. The public is welcome to this free event, which will feature goodie bags (supplies limited), many game booths, prizes, snacks, a craft and Stormy the Magician’s balloon twisting antics. The Barry County Sheriff’s Posse will also be present providing fingerprinting/ID card services for children. Dressing up in a Halloween costume is not required, but is encouraged. All children are invited, but must be accompanied by an adult. First Presbyterian Church is located at 405 N. M-37 Highway, Hastings, just north of Airport Road. For more information, call Tracy Solmes, 269-945-5463 ext. 3009. • Hastings Baptist Church’s AWANA program will host trunk-or-treat Halloween night from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the church parking lot, 309 E. Woodlawn Ave. The public is invited to trunk-or-treat in the parking lot and see AWANA and church volunteers dressed up as biblical characters. AWANA volunteers also will be available for children involved in the program to say their memorized Bible verses. AWANA stands for Approved Workmen Are Not Ashamed, and is a reference to 2 Timothy 2:15 found in the New Testament of the Bible. This program helps children memorize Bible verses through games and rewards Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 For Rent Recreation Business Services WALL LAKE, DELTON: 2 bedroom apartment. References & deposit. No pets, 269-623-8218. WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are interested in leasing acreage for this years deer season. Call (269)795-3049 BASEMENT WATERPROOFING: PROFESSIONAL BASEMENT SERVICES waterproofing, crack repair, mold remediation. Local/licensed. Free estimates. (517)290-5556. Estate Sale ESTATE SALE: FRIDAY, October 26th, 9am-5pm, Saturday, October 27th, 9am2pm, numbers at 8:30 Friday. 415 N. Taffee Drive, Hastings. The Living Estate of Mrs. Donna Kinney, long time Hastings resident. A charming, immaculate nonsmoking home full of beautiful, quality furniture with lots of fun smalls and antique treasures tucked in everywhere. Beautiful, like new Berne sofa and 2 side chairs, plaid chair with matching ottoman, vintage side chair from 1947, Ethan Allen end and coffee tables and china cabinet, full bed with matching dresser and full size sleep set, antique side table, beautiful wicker chair and matching stool from 1860’s, set of 4 needlepoint chairs, antique wash stand, vintage dinette table with 6 chairs, computer desk and file cabinets. Flow Blue dishes from late 1800’s, lovely cranberry antique pickle castor, vintage Fiesta ware, Club aluminum cookware, service for 16 set of china and lots of kitchen miscellaneous. Fabric and notions, lots of holiday and home decor and smalls. Hitching post, wheel barrow, yard spreader and garden tools. Large Craftsman shop vac, ladders, storage shelving, humidifier and garage miscellaneous. We are still uncovering treasures. Much more to be found. This will be a nice, fun sale for everyone. Photos can be seen at EstateSales.net after October 22nd. Sale by: The Cottage House Estate and Moving Sales, (616)901-9898. ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. Garage Sale BARN SALE, OCTOBER 24th-25th-26th, 9am-5pm, 1505 N. Irving Road, Hastings. Something for everyone! Help Wanted GREAT HOLIDAY OPPORTUNITIES! Manage your own seasonal store. Exciting concept coming to Lakeview Square Mall! Earn extra $$$ for the Holidays! National Ads Call Kathryn 888-422-5637 THIS PUBLICATION x119. DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is OWNER OPERATORS deceptive, fraudulent or W/TANDEM axle tractors. might otherwise violate law Dedicated auto parts runs. or accepted standards of Pickup in Spring Hill, TN to taste. However, this publica- Lansing, MI. Great pay, bention does not warrant or efits, hometime! CDL-A, guarantee the accuracy of 18mo Exp. 22YOA. Clean any advertisement, nor the MVR. 800-723-6046 x227. quality of goods or services advertised. Readers are cau- QUALITY TECHNICIAN: tioned to thoroughly investi- MANPOWER of Hastings is gate all claims made in any currently reviewing resumes advertisements, and to use for a 2nd shift short term pogood judgment and reasona- sition (to last approx. 8 ble care, particularly when weeks to cover medical dealing with persons un- leave) in Hastings. Position known to you ask for money is responsible for all types of in advance of delivery of Quality assurance inspecgoods or services advertised. tion, testing and process auditing to ensure all products received or produced conIn Memoriam forms to specifications, IN LOVING MEMORY standards and customer reof quirements. Basic requireNorma Jean (Crawley) ments include 1-2 years exRodriguez perience in *receiving inNov. 26, 1933- Oct. 26, 2007 spections or *quality testing* Although it’s been five environment and experience years, she’s in our hearts working with Microsoft always. Word, Excel, Access and Love, family. Power Point. Pay rate will be $12.00+ based on experience. ROGERS, GARY W. An updated resume with rel10-19-1946 - 10-18-2010 evant skills is required for It broke our hearts to lose consideration. Please contact you, you did not go alone; for part of us went with you, MANPOWER @ (269)9483000. EOE the day God called you home. REGISTERED NURSE: Our family chain is broken, and nothing seems the same; Public Health Department is seeking qualified RN, BSN but as God calls us one by preferred. Please see webone, the chain will link site: www.barryhealth.org again. for more information and Forever in our hearts, application requirements. Carol, Katie, Matt & Addie EOE for memorizing verses. Children also participate in other activities and listen to stories as part of the program. AWANA is a regular program Wednesday nights from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Hastings Baptist Church. For more information, call the church, 269948-8004. • Historic Charlton Park will host an afternoon of family-friendly fun at the All Hallows Eve event Saturday, Oct. 27. From 3 to 6 p.m., visitors can enjoy trickor-treating at 15 locations in the historic village. There will also be games, crafts, balloons and a scavenger hunt. Prizes will be awarded for best costume in a variety of categories. Guests can take a hayride and view the park in its fall splendor and see if they can spot the headless horseman. Free refreshments will be served, including popcorn balls, doughnuts and cider. Cost is $3 for anyone age 13 and up. Children 12 and younger are free, but must be accompanied by an adult. Those who plan to go trick-or-treating should bring their own bags. For additional information, visit www.charltonpark.org or call 269-945-3775. Historic Charlton Park is located between Hastings and Nashville, north of M-79 at 2545 Charlton Park Road. Maple Valley area • The Vermontville Lions Club, with the support of local businesses and organizations, will be hosting the annual trunk-or-treat activities in the village Saturday, Oct. 27. The festivities will take place on Main Street and the village square. The event will run from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Free hot dogs, chips, hot chocolate and apple cider will be provided. Children may participate in a variety of games in the park next to the festival stage. A pumpkin decorating contest will be conducted with prizes awarded. Parents and local residents are invited to bring a decorated car, truck or wheeled vehicle into town and park it on Main Street and by the village park. Three prizes will be awarded; first prize will be a $75 gift certificate. Participants who will be decorating vehicles are asked to check in upon arrival with a Lions Club member and plan on arriving no later than 4 p.m. In addition to the activities in the park, Ace Auto Repair will have its haunted garage again this year. Trick-or-treating in the village of Vermontville will be Halloween night, Wednesday, Oct. 31. • The leadership class from Maple Valley High School and the Maple Valley Education Association are partnering to make sure area kids have a safe and happy Halloween. Students will be in costume and positioned in the Hastings City Bank parking lot in Nashville from 5:30 to 8 p.m., handing out treats and collecting for United Nations Children’s Fund. Trick-or-treating hours in the village of Nashville will be from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, as well. Middleville • Scarecrows and costumes, pumpkins and treats will highlight two family-friendly fall events hosted by the Middleville Downtown Development Authority incoming weeks. The annual scarecrow contest will be judged on Monday, Oct. 22. Entries must be submitted by Oct. 20 and all scarecrows must be family-friendly. Scarecrows should be whimsical, humorous, mischievous, or lovable and not frightening. The Fall Festival on the Riverbank will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 27 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Visitors may register for the costume judging contest at 2 p.m. There will be categories for pets, children and adults. Visitors may also bring a pumpkin that’s been carved and enter it in the pumpkin carving contest. At 2:30 p.m. there will be a costume parade in the downtown area. Many local businesses will be providing treats. Awards will be given out for costumes and pumpkins at 3 p.m. For more information, contact the village hall at 269-795-3385. • Saturday, Oct. 27, Morning Star Church in Middleville will host a family harvest party from 4 to 6 p.m. at the church’s ministry center. Organizers will be screening the movie “Monster House” and providing free popcorn, For Sale AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 BUY NOW & SAVE UP TO $350!- Central Boiler Classic OUTDOOR FURNACES. Heat your entire home & hot water. Call SOS your “Stocking Dealer” Dutton, MI (616)554-8669 or (616)9155061. ELIMINATE YOUR HEATING bills. OUTDOOR WOOD FURNACE from Central Boiler. D-2 Outdoor Wood Boilers. (616)877-4081. HASTINGS BANNER SUBSCRIPTIONS are available for $35 per year in Barry County. Call (269) 945-9554. PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. candy and cider. All ages are invited to this community event. The church is at 640 Arlington Court, next to Tires 2000, on the north side of Middleville. Clarksville Clarksville’s trick-or-treating will be Oct. 31 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The fire barn will open at 7 p.m. and costume judging will begin promptly at 7:30 p.m. Lake Odessa The Halloween party for Lake Odessa will be Oct. 31 from 4:30 to 6 p.m. The event will include costume judging, cider and doughnuts. The party will be on 4th Avenue in front of the Central United Methodist Church. Costume categories will include: neatest costume, funniest costume, best witch, animal costumes, most gruesome, most unusual and best ghost. Trick-or-treating will start at 6 p.m. after the judging. The Lake Odessa Police Department will be on hand all evening for the candy check. POLICE BEAT Employee assaulted by shoplifters Hastings Police were dispatched to Kmart on Oct. 16 for a complaint of two male subjects who had just left the store after assaulting the loss prevention manager. When officers arrived at Kmart they spoke with the loss prevention officer who told them he had observed two male subjects take several bottles of cologne and attempt to leave the store without paying for the items. When the loss prevention officer attempted to stop the suspects, he was assaulted by each subject as they fled the store with the merchandise. A customer outside of Kmart directed officers to the wooded area behind the store where the two suspects were apprehended. The stolen merchandise was also recovered in the wooded area behind Kmart. Man’s station is not for play Hastings Police responded to Kmart on Oct. 17 and were informed that loss prevention officers had watched a group of people enter the store and began watching the group on security cameras. Loss prevention officers watched as a man went to the electronic area, opened up a wireless PS3 controller, and placed it into the pouch of his hoodie. Loss prevention officers watched as he attempted to leave the store without paying for the item. When confronted, the man handed over the stolen merchandise without incident and was then arrested. Boyfriend gets the boot Hastings Police were dispatched to North Michigan Avenue on Oct. 22 to a reported fight in progress. When officers arrived, they spoke with a male subject who told them he had just been kicked on his backside by his girlfriend as he was attempting to obtain some of his personal property. Police spoke with the woman who told them that her boyfriend had come over to get some of his belongings and that she wanted him to sign a piece of paper. She told officers when her boyfriend refused to sign the piece of paper she felt like kicking him, and did as he walked away. The woman was arrested for domestic violence. Father pushes daughter too far Barry County Deputies responded on Oct. 14 to a reported domestic assault on Keller Road. A 17-year-old Shelbyville woman said she had moved out of her father's house approximately five weeks ago. According to her, when she stopped at the house to pick up her remaining property, her father started yelling at her. She said he then grabbed the back of her neck and pushed her into furniture. He then told her to leave the house. When she left the house, she called police. The father told deputies his daughter had pushed him during an argument and he had grabbed her shirt and told her to leave the house. Reportedly, there were no injuries. The report was forwarded to the prosecutor's office for review. Denied driving leads to table flipping Deputies responded to a reported domestic assault on Oct. 13 at a Hutchinson Road residence. A woman had called 911 and reported she was having a verbal and physical dispute with her boyfriend. She said the man was abusing her and had trashed her car. The woman reported her boyfriend had thrown her to the ground and beat her. Both parties were reportedly intoxicated. When deputies arrived, the woman was in the driveway of the residence and her 53year-old boyfriend had fled on foot. She told deputies the man was drunk and he intended to drive. She took his wallet to prevent him from leaving. The Dowling man allegedly flipped over the living room table and threw the woman. The report has been turned over to the prosecutor's office. Theft of morphine leads to ejection from workplace On Oct. 10, a man filed a theft of morphine complaint at the Barry County Sheriff's Department. The man and his roommate believed a third roommate had taken the morphine when she moved out of the residence. The man said he had placed his medication of seven 60 mg morphine tablets in the medicine cabinet behind the 30 mg tablets of morphine. When asked about the medication, the 20-year-old female roommate denied taking the morphine and said she didn't go to the other side of the house, since she had a bathroom near her bedroom on the opposite side of the residence. She also told deputies the two roommates came to her place of work and started making trouble, then were escorted from her workplace by security. The case is inactive pending more information. San Francisco resident lives large A man met with a deputy on Oct. 9 to report he had been contacted by a collection agency about a credit card payment past due. He told the collection agency he did not have that particular credit card. The company told him to file a police report. He told deputies he had already filed a fraud complaint with the Federal Trade Commission, and contacting credit reported agencies about ID theft. When he received a copy of the credit card bill it showed a balance of $13,000 with no payment ever made. His "address" was in San Francisco, CA. The case is closed. Woman not happy with boyfriend’s sleeping habits A man called from his home in Mulliken on Oct. 15 to report he was assaulted by his 30-year-old girlfriend in Woodland. He told deputies he had been out with friends drinking and then went to his girlfriend's house to sleep. The girlfriend had also been out drinking with her friends and came home to find the man sleeping. He told deputies she woke him up and assaulted him. The case is closed until the man comes into the Sheriff's Department for a sit-down interview. Thief gets no cash or cigarettes, but may get lucky On Oct. 15, the Speedway on Saddlebag Road near Lake Odessa reported a breaking and entering and had the suspect on video. Security said a subject wearing a brown hoodie and dark pants broke into the store and appeared to be stealing cigarettes. The suspect was wearing gloves and a white mask. Deputies and Nashville Police arrived on the scene to find the front windows of the store smashed. Investigation showed the suspect did not take many cigarettes, but damaged two cash registers, credit card machines, and monitors in a search for cash. The suspect then took lottery tickets. While the investigation was being conducted, Nashville Police were dispatched to another two possible breaking and enterings. The case is closed pending video updates. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 25, 2012 — Page 15 Ironside recognized for 60 years of service by David DeDecker Staff Writer Gordon Ironside and other members were honored for their continued service to the community during the Hastings Kiwanis Club annual dinner Oct. 17. Held in the community room of Hastings City Bank, with catering from Seasonal Grille, members of the club were given certificates for 25, 30 and 35 years of service. Ironside topped them all with 60 years in the club, with many years serving as club treasurer. 25-year service awards were presented to John Fehsenfeld, Stacey Garrison and Ron Holley. Dave Tripp and Russell Solmes received awards for 30-years of service. At the 35-year mark were Larry Poll, Jim Fisher, Mike Hallifax, Glen Hahn and Gordon Sheldon. Neil Braendle was recognized for 40 years of involvement. “This truly is amazing,” said new Kiwanis President Deb Hatfield. “When I went back and looked at other Kiwanis Clubs, to have this many people means they started together, stayed dedicated as a group, and we hope we can have you for many years to come.” Reverend Gretchen Weller gave the invocation and said a prayer for the late Bob May who was also a Hastings Kiwanian. Lt. Gov. of Michigan Kiwanis Region 14 Vince Weiss was a guest speaker at the annual meeting. Weiss inducted new officers and explained the officers’ roles in efficiently running the club. Hatfield welcomed Hastings Rotarian Carl Schoessel to say a few words about his friend Gordon Ironside. “I have known Gordon, admired and respected him since I came to town in 1983,” said Schoessel. “Gordon has done wonderful things for Kiwanis and the community, but I have been asked to focus on what Gordon has done for the school system and the youth of our community.” Schoessel spoke of the role Ironside undertook as a member of a committee to build the “new” Hastings High School in the late 1960’s. He said Ironside’s support for the new building was very strong right from the outset. “Many people,” said Schoessel, “had strong opinions that the new building was not needed, and the current high school (now the Pennock Health Services CEO Sheryl Lewis Blake (left) presents Medical Assistant Jerry Owens and Executive Assistant Linda Gasper with Pennock Professional Partner Awards, along with Human Resources Director Anita Henderson (right). 60-year Hastings Kiwanis Club member Gordon Ironside is recognized at last week’s annual meeting by presenter Deb Hatfield. Pennock Health Services presents Partner Awards Two Pennock Health Services employees were recognized Oct. 16 for their outstanding work. The Pennock Professional Partner Award is designed to provide formal recognition for continuous excellence in demonstrating the core values, mission, and customer service principle of Pennock. Linda Gasper, executive assistant for the CEO and COO, began at Pennock in 2009. According to Human Resources Director Anita Henderson, Gasper performs in a vary complicated, multi-faceted position with a smile, poise, efficiency and sincerity. “Gasper provides exceptional support of and coordination to the board of trustees and its committees,” said Henderson. “She is very thorough in communicating procedures and processes to assist the board, if necessary.” Gasper is a lover of creatures great and small. She is also an accomplished clarinetist, performing in Europe and Hawaii. “It is a real joy to work with her,” said Pennock CEO Sheryl Lewis Blake. Jerry Owens, certified medical assistant in urgent care and occupational medicine, began at Pennock in 2011. Owens worked for JC Penney for more than 20 years and continues do so, when possible. He decided to branch out and become a certified medical assistant. Owens said he loves taking care of patients. “He is positive, friendly and caring,” said Henderson. “When he is discharging patients, I always hear him say ‘Thank you for letting us take care of your today.’ He is very professional, personable and compassionate, and such a pleasure to work with.” “Jerry has been working for us just over a year, and he has made quite an impact,” said Lewis Blake. Vince Weiss (left) and Deb Hatfield present John Fehsenfeld and Stacey Garrison (right) with service awards. The 35-year service recipients (from left) Judge Jim Fisher, Gordon Sheldon, and Larry Poll with presenter Deb Hatfield. SU Russ Solmes accepts his 30-year Kiwanis award from Vince Weiss (left) and Deb Hatfield. middle school) was ample enough for the community. Thank goodness Gordon, and people like him, prevailed. Then the focus shifted to the building was way too fancy for what the community needs. Now, the ‘new’ high school is nearly 50-years-of-age and has been an necessary part of a quality education in this community.” Ironside has been a strong supporter of bond and millage issues over the years, according to Schoessel. He also spoke about Ironside’s outstanding support of the local Athletic Boosters. “Gordon has not missed very many football and basketball games over the years,” said Schoessel. “He is a super fan and attends many other sporting events. “I want to congratulate Gordon and thank him for the generations of young people who have gone through the Hastings Area School System.” Schoessel presented Ironside with an official Hastings Saxon football jersey and read a certificate of appreciation for his service. Hatfield then presented the honoree with a plaque and 60-year Kiwanis pin. “When I ordered the pin, they (the pin maker) called me and asked if the 60 years was correct,” said Hatfield. “Then it took three months to get the pin. I was told they have only ever made about seven of them. I cannot pin down how many years he has been treasurer of the club. It’s somewhere between 40 and 45 years as treasurer. “He has been a true leader for our club and continues to be a true leader. He goes to the Inter-clubs and is at the Key Club meetings. We all want to thank you and it has been a real joy to work with you.” Ironside said, “I remember when I was asked to join Kiwanis by Tom Stebbins and Marsh Cook. They were neighbors and they thought I should be in Kiwanis. I appreciated them thinking of me and thought if they had the confidence in me, I could stick it out. I don’t know if I will be around another 60 years or not. Thank you.” ! ISE R RP Karl is 40! COME CELEBRATE WITH HIM @ SEASONAL GRILLE 77572025 We would like to thank everybody who came out, sent cards, phoned and showed support for Ken DeMott SURPRISE! FRI., NOV. 2ND – 9PM on September 30, 2012. A big thank you to those that helped with food, events and anything else you could do. Without you it never would have run as smooth. Licensed & Insured References Available Over 26 Yrs. of Basement Construction & Waterproofing Thank you everybody that donated for the silent auction. CONCRETE STOP LEAK We are truly blessed with great family and friends at this time in our lives. We are overwhelmed with gratitude to all. Thank You so much … Ken & Pam DeMott and the DeMott family 06794223 It was a beautiful and blessed day. 77572007 AFFORDABLE Epoxy Pressure Injection Stop Leaking Basements from the INSIDE No Digging - No Excavating - Lifetime Guarantee Over 8 Years Epoxy Experience • Res. & Com. Call Tim, a local company 269-758-3312 County commission approves 2013 budget with an added surprise by Doug VanderLaan Editor Sometimes being lucky is better than being good. Being both, though, is double reason to celebrate. That’s exactly what all of Barry County can do following Tuesday’s report to the County Board of Commissioners that Monday’s refunding of $13 million in bonds for the 2006 improvement and expansion of the Thornapple Manor Medical Care Facility will mean a $1.4 million saving to taxpayers. “The market was very good to us,” County Administrator Michael Brown told commissioners of the refinancing of the remaining principal on the 2006 bond issue. “We’ve gone from an average interest rate of just shy of 4.5 percent to an average interest rate of 2.42 percent, a savings of $1.4 million over the next eight years.” The astute opportunity to lower interest costs was accompanied by a report from investment rating agency Standard & Poor’s which not only reaffirmed its AA rating on the Thornapple Manor bonds, but also awarded another AA rating to the County’s long-term and general obligation debt. The ratings were based on Standard & Poor’s opinion of the county’s residential economic base with access to employment in nearby Grand Rapids, Lansing, Kalamazoo, and Battle Creek, on the County’s “strong reserves” and annual budget surpluses, and on the County’s moderate debt levels and limited future capital needs. “The county’s financial position and performance remains stable and steady in our view,” state the Standard & Poor’s ratings report. “The stable outlook reflects our expectation that the county will maintain its favorable reserve levels by continuing to actively manage the budget and make spending adjustments as needed.” Thornapple Manor Administrator Don Haney was part of a telephone interview with Standard & Poor’s that led to the reaffirmed credit rating, presented in part, according to Brown, because of the impressive response Haney was able to provide to the questions of analysts. “We were looking at savings, but nothing this large,” said Haney of the $1.4 million final number as opposed to the $865,000 savings that Brown and investment consultants had been estimating in March. “Michael and the commission deserve the lion’s share of the credit. It’s really the story of Barry County and its financial stewardship over the years.” Haney’s assistance in securing the AA rating follows the careful reporting and political positioning he needed to prepare Thornapple Manor’s response to a state citation of the care facility that caused a nearly six-week ban on new admissions which ended Oct. 11. “The report that came back was even a little bit better than we had hoped for,” said Haney during a later telephone interview of the differences the facility had with the state over reporting and record-keeping requirements and which has produced meaningful change for the industry in Lansing. “The staff feels wonderful about it and I’m pleased for them and our for residents.” In other business, the board: • Provided unanimous approval for the 2013 budget following a public hearing that drew no public comment. The budget was approved unanimously. In presentation comments, Brown pointed out that the $14,005,232 budget is down from last year’s $15,573,817 because the 2012 budget reflected an unusual $1.7 million added to revenue to pay down accrued liabilities on existing pension program debt. Brown went on to point out that a steady downward budget trend is expected to bottom out in 2013 and, with a projected increase in property tax revenues in 2014, hopes are that “we’ll start to grow. “The challenge is how do we maintain rising costs with revenues that may not rise at that level. I think you’ve made some changes with health insurance and with pension that will take us down that road.” • Approved transfers and disbursements of $158,979. • Approved a resolution to honor Register of Deeds, Darla Burghdoff, upon her retirement. • Approved a resolution to honor the memory of recently deceased Hastings Mayor Robert L. May. • Approved a Farmland and Open Space Preservation Program transfer from Jeffrey and Stacy Morton of properties located in Hastings Charter Township, Castleton Township, and Carlton Township. • Approved the 2012 Apportionment Report, confirming the level of all local tax rates and providing the authorization to collect those taxes. • Approved Barry County winter tax rates and authorized copies of the tax rate be sent to all townships and once city within the county. • Approved the awarding of a three-year maintenance contract to Hurst Mechanical for HVAC equipment located in the Courthouse, the Courts and Law Building, the Friend of the Court, the Sheriff’s Department, the Animal Shelter, the Health Department, and the Commission on Aging buildings. �Page 16 — Thursday, October 25, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lakewood boys’ soccer wins its first district title by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Most teams just get to put numbers up on a banner. The Vikings get to put up the whole banner. They didn’t have anything to put on one until Saturday. Lakewood’s varsity boys’ soccer team won its first ever district championship, knocking off fellow Capital Area Activities Conference White Division member Stockbridge 2-0 in the Division 3 District Final at Fuller Street Field in Nashville Saturday. “I told these seniors if they stuck with it when they were freshmen that they could be district champions,” said Lakewood head coach James LeVeque. “I saw the skill that they had, even though they had a really bad, bad freshman year on the JV.” It’s unlikely any team in the state experiences the highs and the lows in its final week of the season that the Vikings did. They won the district championship, but lost senior midfielder Dylan Durkee to a concussion in the final minute. Coach LeVeque and his wife had their first child Monday. Tuesday, Lakewood’s season came to an end with a 4-0 loss to Otsego in a down pour in the Division 3 Regional Semifinals at the South Christian Sports Park. It was raining hard enough Tuesday that South Christian decided to push its regional semifinal with South Haven, which was supposed to be the night cap, to Wednesday. Otsego’s Austin Hutchinson scored twice in the second half, and the Bulldogs used their possession to limit the Lakewood boys to only a couple of chances at the other end of the field throughout the evening. “They’re the better team,” LeVeque said. “They’re a good team. Solid. We played hard. Nothing to hang your hat onto. They moved the ball well. They’re fast. Speed hurt us again. I think a couple times our guys didn’t mark up and that led to a couple of their goals and that was probably the big difference overall. Defensively, we played all right when we marked up.” While the final score was 4-0, the score could easily have been closer. Two of the Bulldogs’ goals went off the crossbar and a third came on a clearing attempt that was deflected backwards into the net. Joardan Kinning chipped a shot over Lakewood keeper Brady Forman and off the cross bar and in in the 19th minute. The Bulldogs then pushed their lead to 2-0 in the 26th minute, Zak Schurkamp took a drop pass about 25 yards out in front of the Lakewood net and ripped another shot off the crossbar and in. The toughest moment for the Vikings came in the first minute of the second half. The score went from 2-0 to 3-0 when a clearing attempt by a Lakewood defender clipped the back of Hutchinson’s heel and flew back into the Viking goal. Hutchinson then made it 4-0 with his second goal, in the 59th minute. The ball rebounded back and forth in front of the Lakewood net and eventually trickled out the left to Hutchinson who blasted a shot past Forman who was trying to scramble back that way in the mud in front of his net. “I think the first half we played not to get whooped, instead of playing to play,” LeVeque said. “We had nothing to lose coming into this game. We weren’t expected to make it this far. We’ve never made it this far.” Viking defender Jake Waldron does his best to contain Otsego’s Cody Hulbert during Tuesday’s Division 3 Regional Semifinal at the South Christian Sports Park. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Lakewood’s varsity boys’ soccer team celebrates its first ever district championship after beating Stockbridge 2-0 in the Division 3 District Final at Fuller Street Field in Nashville Saturday. The Vikings were that far thanks to their district triumph. Stockbridge had beaten the Vikings during the CAAC-White season. Kalib McKinney scored off an assist from Drew Durkee midway through the first half, then with 16 minutes left in the game Drew scored an insurance goal off an assist from brother Dylan. “The celebration was great. The seniors were happy, but they were thinking in the back of their head ‘how’s Dylan doing?’” LeVeque said. Forman earned the shut out in net, making eight saves. LeVeque said that none of them were really challenging though. Lakewood fired 11 shots on goal at the other end. The Viking coach was especially pleased with the defensive effort against Stockbridge’s most talented player. “We marked him up with David Bibbler, who’s had an up and down year, and David completely shut him down. When David wasn’t in Kalib (McKinney) marked up on him and completely shut him down.” While getting a first ever district title was great for the Vikings, overall LeVeque thought the Vikings might have left a few wins out on the field this fall. “That’s kind of a learning point to them in life,” LeVeque said after Tuesday’s regional defeat. “You’ve got to work hard to get where you want to be and that’s kind of a tough way to learn it but I think they’re going to take onto that. They’re good young men. We didn’t have one cancer on this team. That was a pleasure. You can’t say that with many teams.” Otsego will play in the regional final at South Christian Thursday (Oct. 25), against the winner of Wednesday’s second semifinal TK/Hastings girls shooting for another league title The Thornapple Kellogg/Hastings girls varsity swimming and diving team has two more competitions before diving regionals and the state finals, and they are hoping to finish off another undefeated regular season. The Trojans improved to 6-0 in the OK Rainbow Conference with a 104-75 victory over Grand Rapids Creston/Central Thursday. The Trojans are 10-0 overall after a 169-131 non-conference win over Eaton Rapids Tuesday. They’ll travel to Grand Rapids for a league dual with Ottawa Hills tonight (Oct. 25), then host the conference meet next weekend in Hastings where they’ll be competing for their second conference championship in a row. The first race was the only one the TK/Hastings girls didn’t win Thursday against Creston/Central. Eight different girls won the nine individual events for TK/Hastings. Alexa Schipper was the only one to win twice, taking the 100yard breaststroke in 1 minute 11.24 seconds. She also won the 50-yard freestyle in 26.45 seconds. Jennifer Tuokkola got TK/Hastings’ first win of the night, taking the 200-yard freestyle Thornapple Kellogg/Hastings’ Libby Betcher pulls her way through the water during the 100-yard butterfly race Tuesday evening against Eaton Rapids. (Photo by Dan Goggins) in 2:19.34. Kayla Kroells then won the 200yard individual medley in 2:31.55. TK/Hastings had the top three scorers in each of those two races. BOWLING SCORES Tuesday Mixed Boyce Milk Haulers 21; Hurless Machine 20; Barry County Red Cross 19.5; Hometown Lumber 19; J-Bar Antique Tractors 16. High Games - M. Yost 193; D. Blakely 193; B. Ramey 190; Ray B. 187; Sis 187. High Series - D. Blakely 572; Ray B. 525; Sis 520; D. Wilkins 493. Monday Mixerettes Dewey’s auto Body 23-5; Kent Oil 18-10; Dean’s Dolls 16-12; Nashville Chiropractic 13-15; Creekside Growers 13-15. Good Games and Series - V. Carr 201; S. Nash 175-402; E. Ulrich 153-436; J. Rice 191-495; N. Potter 157; S. Dunham 162; K. Fowler 188; B. Hathaway 163-428; D. Snyder 180. Senior Citizens Sun Risers 18-10; Usedtobe#1 17-11; Three Gals & A Guy 16-12; Just Having Fun 15.512.5; Butterfingers 14.5-13.5; M&M’s 14-14; Ward’s Friends 13-15; Kuempel 11-17; King Pins 11-17; Early Risers 10-18. Women’s Good Games and Series - G. Scobey 166; J. Gasper 203-549; N. Frost 158402; N. Boniface 186-526; D. Larsen 168; E. Ulrich 179-481; R. Murphy 161-470. Men’s Good Games and Series - C. Atkinson 163; H. Gibson 157-454; G. Waggoner 165; P. Gasper 199; R. Walker 166; D. Kiersey 190; M. Saldivar 185; R. Boniface 170-475; L. Dunn 188-507; G. Forbey 147412; B. Terry 201-551; W. Talsma 176; L. Markley 136. Wednesday PM Court Side 23-5; Boniface Construction 1711; Delton Suds 16-12; Eye & ENT 14-14; Hair Care 14-14. Good Games and Series - B. Norris 110; B. Smith 179-478; J. Shurlow 140; S. Stevens 129-379; J. Rice 183-518; T. Christopher 213537; P. Freeman 156. Tuesday Trios Sam 25-7; Washking 23-9; CB’s 19-13; Team Turkey 17-15; Look Ins. 16-16; Lu’s Team 14.5-13.5; Blair Lanscaping 13.5-18.5; Classic Trio 12-20; Coleman Ins. 11-17; Ghost Team 0-32. High Game - Amy 187; Luanne P. 186; Michelle 176. High Series - Mary H. 505; Paula R. 499; Shirlee V. 498. Sat. Majors Grimm Reapers 6-2; Saxons 5-3; Walking Dead 5-3; Kit Kats 4-4; Leones 4-4. Boys Good Games and Series - S. Stout 105-274; K. Kavanagh 137; M. Brown 158458; J. Clous 161-416; K. Kenyon 120-335. The Trojans took the top three scoring places in the diving competition as well, with Brieanna Sheldon winning with a score of 173.10 points. Hannah Bashore won the 100-yard butterfly for TK/Hastings in 1:04.21, Marissa Swanson the 100-yard freestyle in 1:00.68, Katie Beauchamp the 500-yard freestyle in 6:25.87 and Kayla Strumberger the 100-yard backstroke in 1:06.17. In the two freestyle relays, TK/Hastings had the team of Bashore, Kourtney Dobbin, Strumberger and Kayla Kroells win the 400yard race in 4:12.26 and the team of Libby Betcher, Swanson, Tuokkola and Dobbin win the 200-yard race in 1:54.46. The TK/Hastings girls closed out their win over the Eaton Rapids Greyhounds on Pink Night at the CERC in Hastings by taking the top two places in the 400-yard freestyle. Lauren Ricketts, Betcher, Swanson and Dobbin won the race in 4:21.91, and the team of Bashore, Katy Garber, Alicia Czarnecki and Strumberger was second in 4:28.27. TK/Hastings won two of the three relays, with Strumberger, Schipper, Bashore and Kroells taking the 200-yard medley relay in 1:57.52. Kroells won two individual events, taking the 50-yard freestyle in 26.63 seconds and the 100-yard freestyle in 58.02. Schipper won the 200-yard individual medley in 2:26.75, Bashore the 100-yard butterfly in 1:04.27 and Strumberger the 100-yard backstroke in 1:06.83. TK/Hastings also had Swanson win the 200-yard freestyle in 2:17.78, Sheldon take the diving competition with a score of 167.40, and Tuokkola win the 500-yard freestyle in 6:18.54. In between those two duals, the Trojans won their third invitational of the year Saturday. They took the Ottawa Hills Invite with 577 points. Wayland was second with 433, followed by Grand Rapids Catholic Central 326, Muskegon Catholic Central 294, Ottawa Hills 206 and Union 180. One of TK/Hastings most impressive performances came in one of the events the Trojans didn’t win - the 200-yard freestyle. TK/Hastings had Swanson win the event in 2:15.05, then had Tuokkola place third, Strumberger fourth and Beauchamp place fifth. Wayland’s Sydney Hooker won that race in 2:10.87. TK/Hastings won all four relays. Kroells, Dobbin, Ricketts and Schipper won the 200yard freestyle relay in 1:48.12 and Bashore, Swanson, Strumberger and Dobbin won the 400-yard freestyle relay in 4:12.48. The Trojans started the day with Strumberger, Schipper, Bashore and Kroells winning the 200-yard medley relay in 1:58.12. Schipper won two individual events, taking the 200-yard individual medley in 2:24.31 and the 100-yard breaststroke in 1:09.83. She had a teammate right behind her in each event. Bashore was second in the 200 IM in TK/Hastings’ Christian Stayton holds in the pike position as she spins in the air during the diving competition at her team’s meet with Eaton Rapids Tuesday in Hastings. (Photo by Dan Goggins) 2:28.45 and Betcher was second in the 100 breaststroke in 1:14.60. Bashore followed up that runner-up finish with a win in the 100-yard butterfly thanks to a time of 1:02.95. Kroells added a win in the 100-yard freestyle (58.16 seconds) and Strumberger took the 100-yard backstroke in 1:06.91. Traveling senior softball team looking for new players The Southwest Michigan 65 years plus senior softball team is looking for players for the 2013 softball season. Players must be 65 to 70, with their 65th birthday falling in the 2013 playing year. This is a traveling tournament and league team, playing league games every other weekend in Grand Rapids, and playing 7-9 tournaments in Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Georgia, Florida, Nevada and Utah. Tournament dates and locations are chosen by the players and dependent on player avail- ability. “This is extremely fun and competitive play,” said Tom Daum. He would encourage those who used to hit with power or high average, can run and catch, and are willing to meet a great bunch of guys, you are encouraged to contact him for more information. Daum can be reached at 269-430-1034. The team is also looking for sponsors and a responsible person willing to manage/coach. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 25, 2012 — Page 17 Bulldogs score a lot of points late to beat Vikes by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Things went from not so bad to worse Friday night for the Vikings. Ionia’s varsity football team scored 20 points in the final 6 minutes and 2 seconds to top rival Lakewood 33-7 at Ionia High School. “We kind of shot ourselves in the foot and then had that snowball effect,” said Lakewood head coach Nick Boucher. “One thing goes bad and it keeps getting bigger and bigger. You can’t win football games when you self destruct at the end of the game.” The Bulldogs led just 13-7 at the half, and after a missed field goal in the third quarter by the Bulldogs the Vikings connected on a big play to move into position to try and get a goahead touchdown. Lakewood quarterback Alex in the first quarter, and also had a 50-yard touchdown run to put his team up 13-7 4:10 before the half. Lakewood’s only touchdown came in the first quarter when Potter hit Tyler Rush for an 8-yard score. Rush then added the extra point to tie the game at 7-7. The Vikings had a good chance to even things up or take the lead in the first half, after the Bulldogs made it 13-7. Potter completed a screen pass to Suntken who ran 69 yards before being knocked out of bounds at the Bulldog 1yard line. The Bulldog defense stuffed three Lakewood runs from inside the 2-yard line, then smothered a sweep on fourth down after the Vikings had been pushed back to the 6 by a false start penalty. Lars Pyrzinski led the Lakewood defense with 16 tackles. Jacob Darling had 14, Andrew Wisecup ten and Jack Tromp nine. Things got a little testy before the end, with an player from each side being ejected, but a few players shook hands at the line of scrimmage after the final kneel down by Gregory Lakewood quarterback Alex Potter fires a pass ahead during Friday’s contest at Ionia High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Lakewood’s Austin Kietzman (32) and Lars Pyrzinski team up to bring down Ionia’s Mike Cory during the second quarter of Friday’s season finale at Ionia High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Lions’ season ends with district loss to Lakewood Joppie named hitting coach for AAA Pawtucket Red Sox Potter hit Tyler Oesch over the middle and Oesch raced 56 yards before the Bulldogs’ Brandon Serna jumped on his back from behind and pulled him down. The Vikings only managed another seven yards though on the drive. The Bulldogs turned things around and marched 82 yards on 16 plays, starting in the final minute of the third quarter. The drive ended midway through the fourth quarter, with Kyle Parks driving into the end zone from 9 yards out on a fourth-and-2 play. Parks’ two-point run was no good, and Ionia led 19-7. Lakewood tried a trick play after the kickoff, with the ball being snapped in the middle of the field while the linemen were out wide to the left. The snap got over the head of Doug Suntken though, and Ionia’s JD Zammaron recovered at the Vikings’ 10-yard line. Just 21 seconds after the previous score, Bulldog quarterback Austin Gregory rolled to his left and hit Mike Cory in the end zone. Chris Ahmed’s extra-point kick was good for a 26-7 Ionia lead. Cory intercepted a pass to get the ball back for Ionia a minute later, and the Bulldogs moved down the field for a 2-yard touchdown plunge by Jordan Miller with 1:39 left to go. Ahmed’s kick made it 33-7. Gregory was 5-of-11 passing for 73 yards, and rushed 12 times for 66 yards. Parks was the workhorse for the Bulldogs, rushing 34 times for 171 yards and three touchdowns. He scored the first points of the game on a three-yard run Dave Joppie has a new job this fall. The 1984 Lakewood High School graduate has worked his way up through the ranks over the past 20 years and is now one step away from the Majors. He was named the hitting instructor for the Pawtucket Red Sox last month. Pawtucket is the Boston Red Sox AAA team in the International League. Joppie had spent each of the last five seasons as the hitting instructor for the AA Portland Sea Dogs in the Eastern League, and is currently out in Arizona coaching for the Surprise Saguaros - a fall league team made up of Red Sox, Cardinals, Mets, Rangers and Royals prospects. Joppie was born in Hastings, and currently resides in Grand Rapids. After graduating from Lakewood, Joppie played four years of baseball at Aquinas College, then had various American Amateur Baseball Congress and high school coaching jobs between 1989 and 1994 until he landed a chance with the Oakland A’s. He became the hitting instructor for the A’s AA Texas League team, the Huntsville Stars in 1995. In 2004, Joppie took over the Kane Count Cougars of the Midwest League and was named the league’s Manager of the Year. He Ty Greenfield Cell: 269-908-0491 $49 07612475 ended the game and then everyone did as the rivals headed in opposite directions at midfield. The 3-6 Bulldogs headed to celebrate with their fans while the 1-8 Vikings headed to the locker room after a 1-8 season, while t “First and foremost (in the locker room) I thanked them for putting in all the time and energy and basically donating their life to football,” Boucher said later. “I felt terrible with the way it ended. These seniors have had four coaches in four years and they stuck with it ‘til the bitter end.” There were tears for many of the seniors, knowing that their varsity football experience had come to an end. There’s more work to do for the underclassmen though. Boucher plans on having the weight room open Monday. “I think a lot of them got some great experience,” Boucher said. “Their improvement from games one and two to now is incredible. The experience will help them, and it will help knowing the offense and the defense for more than three months before the first game of the season.” Dave Joppie managed one more year for Kane County before moving over the Red Sox organization and becoming the hitting instructor for the Wilmington Blue Rockets of the Class A Carolina League. Call 945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads Security System Installed WE FINANCE* No Credit Check • Buy Here / Pay Here Licensed / Insured / Local Call Scott 517-290-5556 • 877-448-1548 77571253 FREE Consultation & Estimates! ALSO EGRESS WINDOWS / MOLD REMEDIATION 269-967-8241 CALL FOR INFORMATION OR GO TO OUR WEBSITE FOR FULL LIST Prices Starting at $ 1150 *Some exclusions apply 7709 Kingsbury Rd., Delton, MI 49046 Phone 269-623-2775 gogoautoparts.com ® The David Eltzroth 77564841 11/6/84-10/30/01 I do not need a special day to bring you to my mind. The days I do not think of you are very hard to find. Each morning when I awake I know that you are gone. And no one knows the heartache as I try to carry on. My heart still aches with sadness and secret tears still flow. What it meant to lose you no one will ever know. My thoughts are always with you, your place no one can fill. In life I love you dearly; in death I love you still. Dad & Ryan 77572027 22nd minute off an assist from Drew Durkee to put his team up 2-0. It was 3-0 at the half, as McKinney scored a goal of his own in the 33rd minute of play. The Lakewood lead got to 4-0 in the 59th minute, when Drew Durkee sent a cross into the goalmouth. The ball glanced off a Maple Valley defender and into the net as Kyler Knapp supplied pressure to force it in. Drew Durkee then added a goal to his two assists in the 61st minute, finding space to move through the center of the Maple Valley defense. He was assisted on the play by Dylan Durkee. While the Lions aren’t happy to see the season end, Roush was happy with the progress his team made. “We only lose three seniors. We have a lot coming back,” Roush said. “I look forward to that. The progress we’ve made over ten weeks, from the first game against Leslie to what I saw tonight, we have a much better soccer IQ. We’re stepping in the right direction.” Lakewood went on to win its first ever district championship Saturday at Fuller Street Field in Nashville, knocking off Stockbridge 2-0. 77572019 See web for current inventory… by Brett Bremer Sports editor The attacking duo of Joseph Eddy and Nils Wulf created a few chances for the Maple Valley varsity boys’ soccer team in its Division 3 District Semifinal at Lakewood Wednesday. The Lions wish they would have found the combo a little bit sooner. Maple Valley was bumped from the state tournament by a 6-1 loss to the host Vikings, in a game that was shortened by darkness by about six minutes. The officials called the game after Lakewood’s Austin Bronson scored with in the 74th minute. The Lions’ lone goal was by Eddy, off an assist from Wulf, just seconds after the Vikings’ fourth goal. Both came in the 59th minute of play. “We connected more passes than we have been, we moved well. Nils and Joe worked well together. Nils was just recently moved up. He’s been back at defense,” said Maple Valley head coach Andy Roush. “He’s been showing stuff in practice so we moved him up and it has worked out the last couple games.” Lakewood’s Dylan Durkee scored in the tenth minute of play, off an assist from Kalib McKinney, then added a second goal in the 06790990 Maple Valley’s Nils Wulf works to keep the ball away from Lakewood’s Drew Durkee during Wednesday’s Division 3 District Semifinal at Lakewood High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) *To qualified buyers plus tax, fees, title & license. �Page 18 — Thursday, October 25, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Trojans finish off football season with pair of victories by Brett Bremer Sports Editor High school football is over for the Thornapple Kellogg seniors. But senior captain Grant Allison had something to share with the underclassmen who will return to the field for the Trojans next fall after their team’s 32-0 win over Ottawa Hills in Bob White Stadium in Middleville Friday. He stood up in front of the team on the 50-yard line. “He challenged our young guys,” said TK head coach Chad Ruger. “His career is over and he told them not to waste a rep, not to waste an opportunity. I believe he believes that’s how they should look at it. I know he wishes someone would have told him that a year ago. It goes by fast.” The Trojans end the year with a 3-6 record. They were 2-3 in the OK Gold Conference, getting their two league wins in the final two games of the season. While the ending was bittersweet, the game was a lot of fun for the Trojans. TK had nine different players carry the football and 22 different players in on a tackle. The defense scored a touchdown. The Trojans pulled off a trick-play for a score. A lot of players were in on the action, but senior Dan Dykstra was the Trojans’ top offensive gainer. He rushed ten times for 77 yards and scored the only touchdown of the second half in the third quarter. Senior CJ Bronkema had four rushed for 21 yards and a touchdown, and added a second touchdown in the second quarter as the Trojans pulled off their hitch-and-pitch play. Allison completed a pass to junior Israel Torres who then flipped the ball to Bronkema who finished off the 45-yard scoring play. Senior Jeremy Bird also recovered a Bengal fumble in the end zone for a touchdown in the second quarter for TK. Allison was 3-of-4 passing for 63 yards, and ran in a two-point conversion in the second quarter. Senior Aaron Ordway was perfect on his three extra-point kicks for TK, and scored the only points of the first quarter with a 27yard field goal. Ordway added five rushes for 63 yards on offense. Addison Schipper chipped in nine rushes for 45 yards. Senior Cole Gahan and junior Gabe Space each had and interception, while junior Kaleb Amon added a fourth turnover by recovering a Bengal fumble. Gahan had a team-high seven total tackles. Senior Ben Jazwinski added six and senior Austin Sensiba had five. The Bengals finish off at 3-6 overall record and a 1-4 mark in the OK Gold. DK second heading into KVA tourney If Delton Kellogg’s varsity volleyball team wants to extend its string of Kalamazoo Valley Association championships to five, the Panthers or somebody else is going to have to beat Schoolcraft Saturday. Schoolcraft knocked off Delton Kellogg 31 in Delton last Wednesday, and the Panthers closed out the Kalamazoo Valley Association regular season with a 3-0 win over Pennfield Tuesday. Those two matches leave Delton Kellogg in second place in the league standings behind Schoolcraft. The Panthers were 8-1 in KVA duals this year, the Eagles 9-0. They’ll be the top two seeds at the KVA Tournament Saturday at Olivet High School. Schoolcraft beat Delton 25-16, 25-15, 1725, 25-17 Wednesday. Kari Feddema led Schoolcraft with 12 kills, while Marianne Douglas and Kara Craig added seven each. Camille Biacobone had 27 assists. Douglas led the Eagles in aces with six and digs with 14. Alisha Vanderwoude had a solid all around night, with 11 kills, five aces, three blocks and nine digs. Faith Ferris chipped in nine Delton Kellogg’s Hannah Walker sets the ball up during her team’s contest with Schoolcraft Wednesday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Lions last of nine KVA teams to fall to Schoolcraft It was a first for both sides. Schoolcraft’s varsity football team finished off its undefeated Kalamazoo Valley Association championship season with a 40-0 victory over visiting Maple Valley Friday night. The Eagles earned their first shutout of the season in the win, and the Lions were shutout for the first time all season long. Maple Valley managed just 135 yards of offense, and only 50 yards on the ground. Lion quarterback Beau Johnson spent a lot of time firing the football around, but was able to complete just 8-of-25 pass attempts for 85 yards. He was intercepted once, and so was teammate Austin Gonser on his one pass attempt. Charlie Schultz had the two interceptions for the Eagles. Gonser did have five receptions for 56 yards. Garrett Mater added two catches for 18 yards for the Lions. Dylan Kennedy led the Lions on the ground, with four rushes for 20 yards. Gonser carried it four times for 18 yards. The Eagles jumped on the Lions early, scoring three touchdowns in the opening quarter. Schoolcraft quarterback Jeffery Scott had a hand in each of the first four touchdowns for his team. He opened the scoring with a 12-yard run four minutes into the game. Nick Cakmakci hit on the first four of his six extra-point attempts. Scott then added a 5-yard touchdown pass to Josh Hill and a 60-yard touchdown pass to Benny Clark before the end of the first quarter to put his team up 21-0. Scott and Hill hooked up again three and a half minutes into the second quarter, this time for a 67-yard score. Clark then closed out the first-half scoring with a 22-yard touchdown run 1:36 before the break. Hill closed out the scoring for the night with a 30-yard touchdown run 1:11 into the second half. Hill had three receptions in the game for 104 yards, and Zack Decker added two catches for 89 yards. Scott was 7-of-14 passing for 250 yards. Clark led the Eagles’ rushing attack, with eight carries for 69 yards. Blake Zenek added three rushes for 49 yards. Maple Valley’s defense was led by Kennedy and Brandon Erwin who had eight tackles each. Diego Pesina added six. Tyler Hickey had one fumble recovery. The Schoolcraft defense got eight tackles from Matt Abl and seven from Dakota Stanfill. Schoolcraft is one of four KVA teams headed to the postseason. Pennfield (8-1), Constantine (7-2) and Olivet (6-3) will join Schoolcraft in the playoffs. Delton Kellogg’s Kanoe Chaffee passes the ball as teammate Rachel Parker looks on in the back row during Wednesday’s KVA contest with Schoolcraft at Delton Kellogg High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) kills. Hannah Walker led Delton with 17 assists, and Rachel Parker had a team-high 23 digs. The Panthers closed out the regular season at Pennfield Tuesday, topping the green and gold Panthers 25-13, 25-17, 25-212. Vanderwoude had 18 kills and ten aces. Ferris added 13 kills and a team-high four blocks. Walker had 36 assists and Parker had 18 digs. GOLF, continued from page 1 weather was much nicer, yet the course was still very wet and the greens were challenging.” “These kids have worked hard this season. They have learned and grown with each match experience. I am so excited to have the entire team back next year.” Hastings will have three of its five back next year as well. The tournament’s individual championship went to Dearborn Divine Child’s Natalie Blazo, who shot an 81 Friday and a 76 The Saxons’ Courtney Rybiski looks on as her ball rolls onto the green on number eight Friday during the Division 3 State Finals. (Photo by Brett Bremer) S A LT S A L E FRIDAY, OCT. 26TH • 8 AM-5 PM SATURDAY, OCT. 27TH • 9 AM-12 NOON SALT Cash & Carry Hastings’ Katie Brown watches her tee shot fly on number eight during the Division 3 State Finals Friday at Bedford Valley Golf Course in Battle Creek. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Saturday to finish at 157. Clio’s Ayla Bogie was second. The two were tied after day one, but Bogie fired an 83 Saturday to finish at 164. Forest Hills Eastern had two in the top ten, with Henna Singh in fifth with a 167 and Jordan DuVall in the four-way tie for seventh at 169. The Hawks also had Anne Parlmer shoot 88-85-173, Kelsey Sands 109-94-203 and Kate Glazer 107-101-208. 50-lb. Cube $ 49 SALT ...... 40-lb Rustbuster $ 54 Cube ......... 5 5 x Tax High Purity Water Softener Salt 1-800-852-3098 ��������� 269-945-5102 141 E. Woodlawn Ave. Hastings OPEN DAILY 8-5; SAT. 9-12 Denker Family Owned & Operated ~ Rick Denker, Owner Hastings’ Amanda Sarhatt chips a shot up towards the green on number eight at Bedford Valley Friday during the Division 3 State Finals. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The Saxons’ Lindy Kloosterman sets up a putt on the eighth green Friday during the Division 3 State Finals at Bedford Valley Golf Course. (Photo by Brett Bremer) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 25, 2012 — Page 19 Playoffs start with home game against Plainwell Hastings lineman Eric Hart leads the way around the corner for teammate Kenny Cross during Friday’s OK Gold Conference contest against South Christian in Byron Center. (Photo by Dan Goggins) 85 yards and the one touchdown. South Christian ends the OK Gold season in second place thanks to its 4-1 mark. Hastings’ Zach McMahon (3) does his best to make sure a South Christian receiver can’t catch the ball inbounds during Friday night’s game in Byron Center. (Photo by Dan Goggins) of-2 on his extra-point attempts for the Sailors in the fourth quarter, and 3-of-4 overall. Hastings was able to cut into that South Christian lead one more time before the clock read 0:00, finishing off a 12-play, 80-yard drive with a one-yard touchdown run by Huisman. The two-point try was no good again, leaving the Saxons down two scores late. Hastings outgained the Sailors on the evening, 385 yards to 299. Shaffer led the way, rushing 24 times for 138 yards. Cross had eight carries for 100 yards, and French added 17 rushes for 65 yards. Huisman was 3of-8 passing for 52 yards. Cross, French and Michael Eastman had five tackles each for the Saxon defense. James Lee and David Pierce had four each. One of Lee’s was a sack. Zach McMahon and Jake Swartz each picked off a Sailor pass. Wassink led the Sailor attack, completing 16 of 24 passes for 192 yard and rushing 16 times for another 65 yards. Diekevers was his top receiving option. He caught six balls for LHS spikers head to DeWitt for Gold Cup final Thursday Lakewood’s varsity volleyball team will play in the CAAC Gold Cup championship match at DeWitt tonight after a 25-22, 25-17, 25-15 win at Mason Tuesday. Viking head coach Kellie Rowland called Mason a “hustling, hard-playing” team, a team that her Lakewood girls needed to play good defense against because of its strong attacks. The Lakewood defense responded. Beth Tingley had 15 digs, Olivia Davis eight, Emily Kutch seven, Karly Morris six and Jordan Kietzman five. Taylor Shook led the Viking block with five. Kutch had two and Brooke Wieland and Charlie Smith had one each. Kutch was dominant offensively at the net, finishing with 19 kills. Wieland kept the Bulldogs on their toes, hitting ten kills herself. Olivia Davis had seven kills and Shook six. Wieland set up her teammates with 31 assists. Davis led the Vikings at the service line with 13 points and two aces. Tingley and Kutch both had an ace as well. The Vikings got off to a great start, relaxed a bit, and then when their backs were against the wall in the third set they powered through for the win to start CAAC Gold Cup play Thursday. They knocked off East Lansing 2515, 25-16, 25-22 at Lakewood High School. “We knew going in we would face a big athletic group of girls from East Lansing,” said Rowland. “All the players needed to step up and play well. They did that.” She said that Kutch didn’t have her best performance, but managed to come up big over the course of the final few points to help the Vikings close the match out in three sets. Kutch sill led the Vikings with 13 kills and 12 digs, and added two blocks. GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. Wieland had nine kills and 21 assists. She also added nine digs. Sunshine Young had a team-high two aces for Lakewood. Olivia Davis added eight kills and three digs and Charlie Smith helped out with two kills. “Our defense won the game for us, with Jordan Kietzman not allowing any junk tips to hit the floor or allow any cross shots from East Lansing to score,” Rowland said. Hastings was third at 3-2, falling only to the Sailors and the undefeated league champions from Grand Rapids Catholic Central. LHS girls finish in a pack at final CAAC-White jamboree There were three champions in the Capital Area Activities Conference White Division this fall. Lansing Catholic’s varsity girls’ cross country team clinched a conference championship by winning the third conference jamboree of the season Saturday at Stockbridge. The host Panther boys’ team, with the help of Corunna, was able to make up a two-point gap in the overall team standings and catch Lansing Catholic to share the conference title with the Cougars. The Cougar girls won Saturday with 34 points. Stockbridge was second with 58, followed by Corunna 63, Williamston 67, Portland 122 and Lakewood 182. Lansing Catholic’s Emma Frost ran away with the league’s individual championship, taking Saturday’s race in 19 minutes 32.53 seconds. Corunna’s Brooke Bremer was second in 20:15.94. Frost’s Cougar team had five girls finish in the top 11. Lakewood’s top runner was Lindsey Tooker, who was 34th in 24:03.16. She was in a pack of three Vikings that finished within 15 seconds of each other. Anja Gimse was 35th in 24:12.78 and Olivia Louthan 36th in 24:17.99. The Viking team then had Mycah Ridder 38th in 25:12.14, Emily Wilson 39th in 26:05.69, Ellie Reynolds 40th in 26:42.55 and Lora Lee Burrus 41st in 26:51.03. Lakewood’s varsity boys’ team did not compete in the final jamboree. With a few runners out, head coach Jim Hassett had his two varsity freshmen run in the JV race instead. Stockbridge edged Corunna by three points Saturday, 58 to 61 in the boys’ race. Lansing Catholic was third with 59 points and Williamston fourth with 62. Lansing Catholic had the league’s individual champion, and the only guy to finish in under 16 minutes Saturday, Keenan Rebera. He won in 15:58.85. Williamston’s Aaron Baumgarten was second in 16:24.03. Stockbridge was led by Alec Armstrong’s third-place time of 16:45.58. Lakewood will head to Carson CityCrystal for its Division 2 Regional Meet Saturday afternoon, then will be at Thornapple Kellogg Monday for the Barry County Meet. Olivet secures playoff spot by shutting out Panthers Delton Kellogg junior Brady Mills unleashes a pass down field during Friday’s KVA contest at Olivet High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Being that the Eagles finished the season with the second fewest playoff points among the qualifiers for the Division 5 state playoffs, they couldn’t leave anything up to chance in their regular season finale Friday. They didn’t. Olivet improved to 6-3 on the season with a 49-0 Kalamazoo Valley Association victory over visiting Delton Kellogg. The Eagles scored 28 points in the first quarter to take control of the ball game early. Nick Coolidge ran ten times for 212 yards and four touchdowns, and also added a 63yard punt return for a score to lead Olivet. The Eagles amassed 433 yards rushing as a team. Nate Paton added eight caries for 140 yards, and Cash Flower had five rushes for another 52 yards. Flower and Paton each scored a touchdown. The Eagles got their 28 first quarter points, then tacked on two more scores in the third quarter and one in the fourth. Delton Kellogg had just 117 yards of offense, and quarterback Brady Mills was picked off twice. Cole Ritchie carried most of the load for Delton, rushing 12 times for 51 yards. Zach Leinaar added six rushes for 26 yards. Mills was 2-of-9 passing for 32 yards, with Zach Meyers hauling in the two receptions. Delton Kellogg ends the season with an 09 record. The Eagles travel to Holt Junior High School Friday night to face Lansing Catholic in a Division 5 pre-district contest. The winner of that game will meet the winner of Friday’s pre-district game between Leslie and Portland in the district championship game next weekend. Delton Kellogg’s Zach Meyers (right) leaps up to grab a tipped pass as Olivet’s Joseph Barr swats at the ball Friday night. (Photo by Perry Hardin) SAXON WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE Complete online schedule at: www.hassk12.org THURSDAY, OCTOBER 25 5:00 pm Girls Varsity Volleyball Hopkins - Scrimmage 6:00 pm Girls Varsity Swimming Ottawa Hills FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26 7:00 pm Boys Varsity Football Plainwell SATURDAY, OCTOBER 13 1:30 pm Boys Varsity Cross Co. Carson City Regional 2:00 pm Girsl Varsity Cross Co. Carson City Regional MONDAY, OCTOBER 29 4:30 pm Boys Varsity Cross Co. Barry Co. XC at MTK 4:30 pm Girls Varsity Cross Co Barry Co XC at MTK H A TUESDAY, OCTOBER 30 5:00 pm Girls Varsity Volleyball Districts at Wayland A Times and dates subject to change H A A A A HASTINGS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS Contact Nancy 945-2742 or hastingsathleticboosters@gmail.com to sponsor the schedule Thanks to This Week’s Sponsor: Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, P.C. “Quality Care with Compassion” 840 Cook Rd. Hastings, MI 49058 Phone: 269-945-9520 Toll Free: 800-596-1005 Contact us on the web @ www.hoc-mi.com 77571845 The Saxons wanted to win and the Sailors needed to. South Christian and Hastings both finished off the varsity football’s regular season with 6-3 records. The Sailors got the sixth win they needed to guarantee themselves a spot in the state playoffs by topping the Saxons 27-18 in Byron Center Friday. Hastings still managed to earn itself a home playoff date. The Saxons will host Plainwell, in a battle of old preseason rivals, Friday at 7 p.m. in a Division 3 Pre-District match. South Christian travels to Paw Paw for its Division 4 Pre-District game. The winner in the match-up between the Saxons and Trojans will play for the district championship next week against the winner of the Pre-District contest between Charlotte and Harper Creek which is happening in Battle Creek Friday. An 83-yard interception return for a touchdown by the Sailors’ Chad Sterk in fourth quarter all but finished off the victory for South Christian, which led throughout most of the evening after an 8-yard touchdown run by quarterback Jon Wassink put his team up 7-6 in the second quarter. Hastings marched 90 yards on a ten-play drive in the opening quarter to take a 6-0 lead on an 8-yard touchdown run by Jon French, but the two-point run by Kenny Cross came up short of the goal-line. Another missed two-point attempt prevented the Saxons from tying the ball game in the fourth quarter. South Christian extended its lead to 14-6 in the third quarter, on a 34-yard touchdown pass from Wassink to Austin Diekevers. The Saxons got within two points when Stephen Shaffer broke free for a 25-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter, but Saxon quarterback Chase Huisman’s twopoint pass fell incomplete. Wassink answered with a 10-yard touchdown run and then Sterk followed that up by picking off a fourth-down pass from Saxon quarterback Chase Huisman and returning it for the final Sailor TD. Brandon Haan was 1- �Page 20 — Thursday, October 25, 2012 — The Hastings Banner TK volleyball falls to top two teams in the Gold by Brett Bremer Sports Editor South Christian beat the Trojans, then turned around and started rooting for them. The Trojans didn’t give the Sailors a reason to celebrate though. Wayland’s varsity volleyball team clinched the outright OK Gold Conference championship by knocking off Hastings and then Thornapple Kellogg Thursday at the conference quad hosted by the Sailors. The Wildcats clinched a share of the title with their 25-22, 25-13, 25-23 win over Hastings, then topped the Trojans 25-18, 2325, 25-17, 25-16 to end the conference season with a 9-1 record. The Sailors were 8-2 in the league, with both their losses coming to the Wildcats. South beat TK their first match of the night, 25-13, 25-11, 19-25, 25-19. The Trojans finished third in the league standings with a 6-4 record. Overall, TK head coach Patty Pohl didn’t feel like it was a great night for her team, but there were bright spots. The Trojans passed the ball well in the tight sets with South Christian and the set they won against Wayland. TK battled back from a 21-15 deficit in that one set they won from the Wildcats. “I think when our passing is on, we’re able to run our offense. When our passing is not on, we can’t set the ball up like we’d like to,” coach Pohl said. “We can’t run all the plays we want to play. Comparatively, us with the other teams, they passed better than us over- all. We had our moments where we passed great.” While there were some struggles, Pohl saw some girls step up as well. “Jessica Morgan she played really well all around. I moved her in different positions. I thought she played really well. “Holly Dahlke and Erin Scheidel both went in at different times and played really strong in the back row. That was nice.” Sydney LeMay had a big match against South Christian, with 13 kills, but couldn’t get on track against the Wildcats. Jessica Ziccarello put up a solid attack in both matches, getting nine kills against South and six against Wayland. Setter Alaina Pohl had 70 assists on the night, 30 against Wayland and 40 against South. Molly Lark had 19 digs against South and 16 against Wayland. Coach Pohl said Lark made some great defensive plays throughout the evening. Alaina Pohl chipped in seven digs against the Sailors and nine against the Wildcats. Nicole Schondelmayer added six kills in the loss to Wayland. The Trojans host a quad tonight in Middleville to close out the regular season. Thornapple Kellogg’s Nicole Schondelmayer rises up to try and push an attack by the block of Wayland’s Marissa James during Thursday’s OK Gold Quad at South Christian High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Trojan setter Alaina Pohl puts the ball up during the fourth set of her team’s contest with Wayland Thursday at South Christian High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Gold’s best both beat Saxons by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Saxons had their moments Thursday, but couldn’t pull out a set against the two best teams in the OK Gold Conference at the league quad hosted by South Christian. Hastings’ varsity volleyball team finished off the conference season with a 2-8 record, falling to South Christian and league-champion Wayland 3-0. Thornapple Kellogg also lost to the Sailors and Wildcats on the night, 3-1 in each match, to finish third in the conference. The Saxons put up a fight against the Wildcats, who clinched a share of the league championship with the win and clinched the outright title over the Sailors by beating the Trojans. Wayland topped Hastings 25-22, 2512, 25-23. “We just can’t seem to pull out those last three points,” said Hastings head coach Val Slaughter. “We were up against Wayland in both that first and the third game.” Rachel Quillen had seven kills and four blocks for the Saxons, and Corrie Osterink added four kills. Erin Goggins had two aces to go along with her 16 assists. Taylor Warner had six digs and Nikki Redman five. “They just played good. They were passing good. They were serving good,” said Slaughter. South Christian then knocked off the Saxons 25-9, 25-14, 25-14. “They were blocking our hits,” Slaughter said. (South Christian hitter Olivia DenHartigh) was killing us on our hits. She was blocking us and kind of shut us down. We couldn’t tip around them, they were covering it.” DenHartigh led the Sailor attack for the night, recording a total of 25 kills in her team’s two matches. “They’re tough. They don’t have any holes anywhere on the court. Offensively, there’s not much to pick apart on their defense. You’ve just got to hit it hard, and they hit it harder,” Slaughter said. In the loss to the Sailors, Quillen had four kills and two blocks. Grace Bosma had three blocks as well for Hastings. After a night like that it would have to get easier for the Saxons, but it’s not going to. Hastings opens postseason play with a district game against top ranked Lakewood at Wayland High School Tuesday at 5 p.m. The winner of that match plays the host Wildcats in the district semifinals Thursday, Nov. 1. Portland and Thornapple Kellogg meet in the other opening round match Tuesday, with the winner of that game advancing to take on Ionia in the district semifinals. Hastings’ Ali Owen sets the ball up as South Christian’s Olivia DenHartigh protects the net during the third set of their contest at Thursday’s OK Gold Quad. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The Saxon block, which includes Rachel Quillen (8), can’t quite stop an attack by South Christian’s Olivia DenHartigh during Thursday’s OK Gold Quad at South Christian High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, P.C. • Kenneth S. Merriman, M.D. • Eric S. Leep, D.O. • James L. Horton, Jr., D.O. • David J. Heeringa, D.O. • Maria Benit, PA-C • Christopher Born, PA-C Providing Excellence. In the Art of Total Orthopedic Care Physical Medicine and Pain Management Accessible. Comprehensive. From left to right: James L. Horton, Jr., D.O., Orthopedic Surgeon; David J. Heeringa, D.O., Orthopedic Surgeon; Eric S. Leep, D.O., Physical Medicine; Kenneth S. Merriman, M.D., Orthopedic Surgeon. For more information on Hastings Orthopedic Clinic or to learn about all of our services, please visit us online at www.hoc-mi.com, scan our QR code below with your mobile device, or contact us directly at (269) 945-9520. HYAA Football The Hastings eighth grade Gold football team defeated the previously unbeaten and unscored upon Three Rivers Wildcats 26-22 Oct. 13 in its final game of the season, which was played at Waldo Stadium in Kalamazoo. The Saxons improved their record to 5-1 on the year, finishing with five consecutive wins. The Saxon offensive line combined for 277 total yards including 212 yards rushing on 33 carries and were led by offensive ends Kip Beck and Ryan Smelker and guard Austin Stephens. Running back Billy Smith led the Saxon rushing attack with 117 yards on 15 carries scored two touchdowns. Quarterback Calvin Cappon was 2-of-3 on passing attempts both to end Skyler Brower for 65 yards and two touchdowns. Defensively, the Saxons worked hard to contain the Wildcats, which included two sacks and three forced fumbles. Outside linebacker Ethan Hart finished with ten tackles including one for loss. Outside linebacker Devin Planck also had four tackles including a 10-yard tackle for loss on a Wildcat reverse. GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. 07612492 � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-11-01.pdf 2984e767552918fa5ad68999a5fd9e1d PDF Text Text Dirty Dozen mud run draws hundreds Working together builds better communities Delton girls qualify for state finals again See Story on Page 3 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 19 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 43 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, November 1, 2012 NEWS Change on the horizon for county board BRIEFS Delton Life Walk raising awareness The Delton community is reeling from the recent suicides by young people — five in the past year. In response, students at Delton Kellogg High School are organizing Life Walk 2012 with the theme, “Every Life is Worth Living,” Saturday, Nov. 3, beginning at noon at the high school track. The community will be remembering those who are gone and working to prevent suicide. The public is encouraged to participate in the walk. For more information, call 269-2540802 or 269-671-4824. Set clocks back this weekend Just in time for Tuesday’s election, everyone will get an extra hour of sleep this weekend when daylight saving time ends at 2 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 4. As in the past, the semi-yearly event serves as a time for residents to check or replace batteries in their smoke detectors. Fall leaf pickup begins Monday The Hastings Department of Public Services will begin its fall leaf pickup Monday, Nov. 5 in the Second and Third wards south of State Street. City crews will then finish the Second and Third wards north of State Street and move into the First Ward north of the Thornapple River. Crews will finish in the Fourth Ward from Broadway to the west city limits. Residents should place leaves near the curb, not in the street. Dancers of the Golden Age focus of ILR class Hastings resident and theater buff Terry Dennison will discuss the contributions to dance made by memorable dancing stars of musical film from the 1930s to the 1950s during a four-week class through the Institute for Learning in Retirement at the Kellogg Community College Campus on West Gun Lake Road. The class will meet Mondays, Nov. 5 through Nov. 26, from 1 to 3 p.m. For more information or to register, call the KCC Fehsenfeld Center, 269948-9500, ext. 2803. Winter parking restrictions in effect The Hastings Police Department remind residents that parking is not permitted on city streets between 2 and 6 a.m. Vehicles found in violation will likely be cited for the parking offense and possibly towed, said Deputy Chief Jeff Pratt. Snow is inevitable and vehicles left parked on the streets this time of year make it difficult for city crews to effectively clear the streets of snow, he said. With population change reapportioning county commission representation from eight districts to seven and with the arrival of new candidates in three of those new districts, the Barry County Board of Commissioners is headed for new composition Nov. 6. Only current county chair Craig Stolsonburg in District 2 and vice chair Ben Geiger in District 5, who defeated Steve Pyrzynski in the Aug. 7 primary are unopposed incumbents. Current District 1 Commissioner Howard “Hoot” Gibson is being challenged by Democrat Tom Huis. In District 7, Jim Dull defeated incumbent Jeff VanNortwick in the Aug. 7 Republican primary, but VanNortwick has filed as a write-in candidate to make another run to save his position. New faces are assured in District 4 and District 6 where Jon Smelker and Jim DeYoung, respectively, won Republican primary races. District 3 will also be represented by a new name when voters choose either Republican Joyce Snow or Democrat Barbara Cichy. Incumbent Robert Houtman was defeated by Snow in the primary. A brief review of candidates who responded to a Banner election questionnaire follows: District 1 Howard Gibson (R) v. Tom Huis (D) Incumbent commissioner Gibson, 73, is a 68-year resident of the county and has earned certificates in auctioneering, collective bargaining, emergency management and health and safety. Huis, 65, is a General Motors retiree making his first run for public office. What is the biggest issue facing the county today? Gibson: The budget is always going to be a problem. On Oct. 23, we approved the proposed budget for 2013 with projections for 2014-15. Huis: Learning to live within smaller budgets. That means using our money wisely and efficiently so we can avoid cutting crucial programs and services. What do you offer as a county leader? Huis: A bachelor of business degree and a master’s degree in public administration provide me a strong foundation of the principles of good government. My military background, Barb Cichy Jim DeYoung James Dull Ben Geiger Howard “Hoot” Gibson Tom Huis Jon Smelker Joyce Snow Craig Stolsonburg Jeff VanNortwick plus my years with General Motors, have provided me a strong work ethic and ability to lead and work successfully with others. Gibson: Experience, knowledge and availability to attend meetings. Currently, I carry a perfect attendance record. What differentiates you from other candidates? Gibson: I really don’t know what other candidates are doing. I am very visible and I talk to several people to get their opinion on issues that I have to vote on. Huis: Fresh, new ideas and experience in commercial and private sectors. I can assess/handle situations to ensure that government decisions are made in the best interest of the district. I listen to people’s concerns/questions and assure my intent to take action with- out favoritism or prejudice. What changes would you make in county government or its programs as they are currently structured? Huis: The county government/programs need to be continually updated and streamlined. Duplications between departments and services must be identified and corrected or eliminated. This is the only way to ensure that the members of our community receive the best possible services during this time of declining budgets. Gibson: More citizen involvement on county board appointments. Also, a survey of county residents to see what changes they would like. Who or what provides you inspiration? Gibson: I am inspired when I see citizens enjoying the activities that are available in Barry County. The COA has many activities for seniors, and Charlton Park has activities for all ages. Huis: My wife Sheila and our son Dray are my inspiration. They have always encouraged and supported my desire to give back to this community through my volunteer activities and my aspirations of further service. District 2 Craig Stolsonburg (R) — Unopposed Stolsonburg, 38, an associate broker/Realtor with Bellabay Realty, was elected to the county board in 2008 and served as its chair in 2010 and 2011. What is the biggest issue facing the county See CANDIDATES, page 13 Ballot issues raising concern among voters This summary of the November statewide ballot issues was compiled by the Citizens Research Council of Michigan. The privately funded not-for-profit organization aims to provide factual, unbiased independent information on significant issues concerning state and local government organization and finance. An in-depth analysis of each proposal and corresponding webinars are available at no cost on the Citizens Research Council’s website, election.crcmich.org. The CRC does not endorse candidates for office or take positions on ballot issues. In analyzing these ballot issues, CRC hopes to provide more information so that voters can make better informed decisions in formulating their vote. Initial considerations by the Citizens Research Council of Michigan: Several of the proposed amendments to the Michigan Constitution contain enough detail to raise the question of whether the Constitution is the appropriate place for such detailed and often complex provisions, regardless of their public policy merits. A review of the proposed amendments reveals that several are quite lengthy, go into substantial technical detail, and deal with issues that would be found in statutory law, not in the constitutions, of most states. Voters should evaluate the public policy merits of each proposal as well as the appropriateness of each amendment in regards to its inclusion in the state’s constitution. Proposal 1 Emergency financial manager law Public Act 4 of 2011 is the Local Government and School District Fiscal Accountability Act. It is the third iteration of Michigan laws that allow the state to appoint an emergency manager who has authority over the financial decisions of a fiscally distressed local government or school district, and it extends the authority of the appointed emer- gency manager to the non-financial operations of the local government or school district. This act allows state-appointed managers to assume the responsibility of locally elected officials and grants those appointed managers more powers than locally elected officials have. Among the expanded powers granted to emergency managers under PA 4 are the authority to reject, modify or terminate one or more of the terms of an existing contract and, under specified conditions, to reject, modify or terminate one or more of the terms and conditions of a collective-bargaining agreement. Under PA 4, collective bargaining is sus- pended if an emergency manager is appointed. Aug. 8, when the state Board of Canvassers placed the issue repealing PA 4 on the Nov. 6 ballot, PA 4 was suspended in accordance with Article II Section 9 of Michigan’s See BALLOT ISSUES, pg. 10 Halloween brigade on guard for trick-or-treaters With help from the Hastings Rotary Club and other hearty volunteers, a Halloween tradition was saved last night with the closing of Green Street to all but ghosts, goblins and creatures of the night. With budgets tight, Hastings City Council member Bill Redman helped organize a volunteer crew that manned barricades from 5 to 8 p.m. so that trick-or-treaters were safe on the popular Green Street route. Pictured before taking up their assignments are, (front row, from left) Dave McIntyre, Val McIntyre, Michelle Skedgell with dog Rhea, Patty Woods, Jeff Mansfield, (back) Scott Rasmussen, Jeff Pratt, Tony Coughlin, Brian Peake, Dave Tossava, Mike Brownlee, Matt Vaughn, Rick Taylor, Steve Skedgell, Dave Jackson, Will Pettengill, Bill Redman, Rob Deming, Jeri Depue, Tim Girrbach and Police Chief Jerry Sarver. �Page 2 — Thursday, November 1, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Three candidates seek two spots on Delton school board Delton Kellogg Schools have two openings on the board of education. Three candidates are running for the four-year terms. Incumbent Jennifer Bever is being challenged by newcomers Steve Hook and Kelli Martin. Bever, 37, is currently serving a four-year term on the board. If elected, what education issue will be the first you address? If re-elected, one area of education that I will closely monitor is the student achievement data being collected from the MEAP and other assessments our staff use throughSteve Hook Kelli Martin out the year. This information is vital in the process of planning ahead for effective staffing for the next school cerns. One example is the upgrade and expansion of technology throughout the district. If year. How can you improve education for Delton this effort is successful, all students at Delton Kellogg will benefit. Kellogg students? What one change would you make to I am currently involved in the upcoming bond proposal project. Our committee has Delton Kellogg Schools? One change I would like to see at Delton worked to identify educational areas of concerns and attainable solutions to those con- Kellogg would be an expansion of our voca- Maurer wins bronze at national FFA competition tional educational classes. We are challenged every school year to prepare our students to be global learners. I would like to offer CAD classes and expand our trades based opportunities for students. How can local government impact public schools? Our school district and community are greatly affected by our local government. Our local officials create ordinances that could protect our young people. I would like to see a curfew time, safer sidewalks for community usage and better lighting in public gathering areas. How will you approach the budget woes of Delton Kellogg schools? My approach is to make decisions that are best for kids while maintaining a balance of fiscal responsibility. The board has stayed focused on maintaining and adding to the fund equity. Making necessary cuts away from the classroom has helped. Increased marketing strategies have also had a positive impact on enrollment. Kelli Martin, 33, is seeking one of the fouryear Delton Kellogg Board of Education seats. If elected, what education issue will be the first you address? I will definitely be looking into the areas of art and music as well as special education. My teaching degrees are in art education and music education. Also, having a child who needed early intervention has changed my view of the education system and the value of special education services. How can you improve education for Delton Kellogg students? There needs to be better communication between the board and teachers and between the board and parents. I am willing to be in the school during the day to see what needs are in classrooms. I have a desire to help, and I want to see our school thrive. What one change would you make to Delton Kellogg schools? I would like to see smaller class sizes. How can local government impact public schools? The local government is voted on by its community members and therefore should represent the values of the voters. This is vital to the success of the school. The school board should consist of people who will best represent the values of the community it resides in. How will you approach the budget woes of Delton Kellogg schools? We need to continue making responsible financial decisions and keep students and teachers a priority. We need to be creative and resourceful with what we have, but also use our abilities to bring in money, possibly grant writing opportunities. We also need to build relationships with people in the community. Steve Hook, 50, is a newcomer seeking one of two four-year trustee seats. If elected, what education issue will be the first you address? There are many large and small, each deserving full review and consideration. To target a single goal would detract from the need to consider all others. How can you improve education for Delton Kellogg students? By understanding the district’s current assets and resources and work to assure the each student is guaranteed superior instruction. What one change would you make to Delton Kellogg Schools? Again, we cannot focus on a single change. The changes must come, but not without the consideration of how each may impact every aspect of each student, teacher, parent, administrator, district and community. How can local government impact public schools? This could be a really long list, depending on the depth of the response you’re looking for. Eventually, it all comes down to resources and regulations. How will you approach the budget woes of Delton Kellogg schools? The district is a business, with revenues and expenses, employees and assets. We must consistently experience more revenue than expenses. Our choices are to either reduce expenses or increase revenue. I would prefer to research methods of controlling expenses by becoming more efficient and work to increase our revenue. Lineup for Hastings township will not change The Hastings Charter Township lineup will not change from its present composition since Supervisor Jim Brown, Clerk Anita Mennell, Treasurer Jenee Phillips and trustees Ron Mennell, William Wetzel, Keith Murphy and James Partridge II are all running again unopposed. All are Republicans, except for Democrats Phillips and Murphy. Only Brown, Phillips and Anita Mennell responded to the Banner’s questionnaire. What is the biggest issue facing the township today? Brown: The biggest problem is trying to maintain essential services with less revenue. Our taxable revenue has gone down 10 percent in the past three years and has not stopped falling, yet. It is not going back to the “good old days” soon or ever, for that matter. Phillips: I have seen a significant reduction in the amount of revenue available to the township. At the same time, the cost for services and materials, such as those needed for road repair, continue to increase. Becky Maurer of Hastings represents her FFA chapter, community and state in the national FFA Creed Speaking competition. Becky Maurer, a freshman at Hastings High School, received a bronze medal in the Creed Speaking Competition at the National FFA Convention Oct. 25 in Indianapolis. Maurer competed in district and regionals and won the Michigan FFA Creed Speaking Contest in March, earning the honor of representing the Hastings FFA and Michigan FFA in the national competition. The FFA Creed is a five-stanza document that provides the moral framework for FFA members follow, said FFA Advisor Dennis Pennington, who accompanied Maurer and other Hastings students to the national convention. The creed represents the greatest traditions, beliefs and responsibilities that agriculturists uphold for the betterment of mankind, he said. Contestants must memorize the creed, recite it before a panel of judges and answer questions about what the creed stands for and means to them. Contestants must be in eighth or ninth grade to participate. Maurer represents an elite group of young people, added Pennington. There are more than 550,000 members in the National FFA Organization. Only 48 of these members from across the country made it to the Creed Speaking National Competition. FFA is the largest youth leadership organization in America that teaches and prepares the next generation of scientists, farmers and leaders for a cadre of agricultural careers. To be a member of the Hastings FFA, email Ed Domke at Hastings High School, edomke@hassk12.org. Mennell: Decline in property values which creates less funds for the township to operate on. Our township operates with no extra millages, striving to maintain with what we have. What do you offer as a township leader? Mennell: Willingness to be involved. Great listening skill and background in accounting. Phillips: I have a genuine desire to serve the residents of Hastings Charter Township. It is always my top priority to answer their questions or help solve their problems. When it is not within my ability to do so, I try to direct them to someone who can. Brown: It’s not so much what I can do as what we as township leaders can do. We have an excellent board with a single purpose of doing the most possible with limited resources. We have not been caught up in petty jealousy, bickering and hidden agendas, as some townships have. What differentiates you from other candidates? Phillips: While there are many good, hard- Voters encouraged to view sample ballots before going to polls Secretary of State Ruth Johnson is encouraging Michigan voters to go online to view their sample ballot prior to the Nov. 6 general election in order to help shorten lines on election Day. “Doing a little bit of homework and knowing what you are voting on before you reach the polls will make the voting process faster and easier for all voters, and help lines move more quickly in your polling location,” said Johnson. To see a sample ballot, go to www.michigan.gov/vote, choose ‘public ballot’ from the buttons on the left, then select county and respective jurisdiction. Voters are allowed to bring the sample ballot into their polling location in order to facilitate marking the official ballot, but should be sure to take the sample ballot with them when they leave the voting booth. It may not be shown to other voters. Also on the Michigan Voter Information Center website, residents can check their voter registration status, find their polling location, learn about absentee voting, get information on Michigan’s voter ID laws and view contact information for their local clerk. Polls across the state will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday. working people running for office, one thing that differentiates me is my commitment to the office I hold. The people of my township elected me as their treasurer. It is my responsibility and privilege to show up and represent them. Brown: Running unopposed has its advantage, but you still have to be constantly doing your best. That takes changing to meet demands of the current time and circumstances. The only thing permanent is change. Mennell: Nothing — in my opinion, we all want to serve the public and are willing to step forward to do so. What changes would you make in county government or its programs as they are currently structured? Phillips: One change I would like to see would be a county-wide recycling program. I have had several township residents come in to tell me what an important issue this is to them. Mennell: No response. Brown: Government should stick to what it is best suited for, governing. Private enterprise is much better suited to being the employer, innovating and providing a healthy tax base. Who or what provides you inspiration? Mennell: My family — what affects them affects us all. Brown: Thinking ahead, trying to make current situations better or even eliminating them for something better. From a famous person’s quote: “Some decisions are only made by the brave.” As an elected official, you have to make unpopular decisions sometimes, brave or not. Phillips: The “who” would be my family. They inspire me to be better than I am. The “what” would be random acts of kindness. When I hear of someone helping others simply because it was the right thing to do, it inspires me and refreshes my faith in mankind. Few township leaders Incumbents will see contested races fill Rutland Republican-dominant Barry County will hold contested elections in less than half of its 16 townships Tuesday, highlighted by races for supervisor in Assyria, Barry and Orangeville townships. Incumbent supervisors Mike Timmons in Assyria and Wes Kahler in Barry Township, are Republicans who will face opposition from Allen Stasku Jr. and Greg Gay, respectively, who have no political party affiliation. Republican Thomas Rook in Orangeville Township is being challenged by Democrat George H. Williston. In Yankee Springs Township, Democrat Shanon VandenBerg will face Republicans Mary Cook and Bruce Campbell for two open trustee seats. A similar three-candidate race for two trustee seats in Johnstown Township will pit Republicans Karen Doster and Jeffrey Warren against Democrat Robin Johnson. A last-minute flood of write-in candidates in Baltimore and Prairieville townships will add interest to the race for trustee and parks commission seats. Republican Arthur DeFields had been the lone candidate for two trustee positions in Baltimore. Meeting the Sept. 26 writein candidate filing deadline were Richard Clark, Connie Case and Stephen Case whose party affiliation is unknown. In Prairieville Township, five parks commission seats are available. Until the write-in filing deadline, only Democrat G.R. Labrecque and Republican Rebecca Kahler were on the ballot. Joining them now will be unaffiliated write-in candidates Mark D. Doster, Deb Young, Kathryn Goebel, Shawn Diebold and Michael Lee Strong. See additional election-related stories in this issue of the Banner. Delton voters being asked to renew millage Voters in the Delton Kellogg school district will be asked to renew a millage when they go to the polls Tuesday. Delton Kellogg Superintendent Paul Blacken said the millage proposal is not new but a renewal of the 2010 millage. The millage pays, in part, for basic operations of the school district, he said. Approval of the millage would allow the school district to continue to levy the statutory rate of 18 mills on all property, except principal residences and other property exempted by law, required for the school district to receive its revenue per-pupil foundation allowance. The millage is to be renewed for a two-year period. Township ballot All candidates in the Rutland Charter Township races are incumbents and unopposed in the general election. Supervisor Jim Carr held off challenger Joe Lyons in the August primary. A questionnaire was sent to all the candidates in Rutland Charter Township. None responded. Robin Hawthorne is seeking re-election as township clerk, and Sandra Greenfield as treasurer. Candidates for the four available trustee seats are Marlin Walters, Bill Hanshaw, Brenda Bellmore and Dorothy Flint. Maple Grove Twp. leadership will remain the same Maple Grove Township has no contested races. Running unopposed are Republican incumbents Supervisor Rod Crothers, Clerk Susie Butler, Treasurer Ginger Cole and trustees James Heyboer and Doug Westendorp. None of the candidates returned requested biographical and political position information. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 1, 2012 — Page 3 Dirty Dozen mud run draws hundreds Those daring to brave the wet start the Dirty Dozen on an 80-foot water slide. Julie Schaefer-Space climbs through a tire obstacle. (Photo by Julie Makarewicz) Many groups, like these young people at the start of the race, dressed according to a theme. YMCA camp counselors pose after participating in the Dirty Dozen are (from left) Peter Beck, Matt Johnson, Miguel Martinez, Dexx VanHouten, Ian Beck, John James and Matt Cathcart. (Photo courtesy of Jon Anderson). More than 350 participants braved the chilly weather, the warming waters of the 45foot long super slide and 11 muddy obstacles just to say they did it, said Jon Anderson, Pennock Hospital cardiopulmonary colleague and organizer of the inaugural “Dirty Dozen” event Sunday. “Families, friends and neighborhoods showed up to show their support for the United Way of Barry County and cheer on the runners, walkers and crawlers. There was much excitement, and some spectators found themselves returning to the event with a change of clothes so they could get down and dirty themselves.” “Pennock is committed to improving the health of our community, and we are committed to the work that is done through the United Way of Barry County. The Dirty Dozen was a way to engage the community on many levels and motivate families and individuals to get out and get active all while having fun in the name of a great organization,” said Sheryl Lewis Blake, Pennock chief executive officer and co-chair of this year’s United Way Campaign. All proceeds from the event will support Barry County United Way. Plans for next year are already underway. Race results will be posted at www.pennockhealth.com. 77572172 These young men hit the course after starting on the water slide. �Page 4 — Thursday, November 1, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Voting is a key element as an American citizen To the editor: Coming up Tuesday, Nov. 6 is a very important day for all qualified voters in the Barry County area. Whether you vote absentee or in person, it is your duty as an American to go to your place to vote, and vote your choices (not the government’s choices). It does take a little time to research the information about your choices. Do not just go to the polls without researching the candidates and the issues. Do not just listen to someone else (friends, family or Facebook) tell you how to vote. Don’t just rely on MSNBC or FOX News to make your decision for you. On any ballot with local or state proposals, take the necessary time to read the wording on your ballot. Your future will be in that vote that you placed. Make sure that you know where your polling places will be. Make sure that you have your ID, and that you look over the ballot carefully before you take the opportunity to place your votes. It is also very important that we make this area’s election workers have a tough day with all the people coming in to vote. We do not need the usual 25 to 30 percent. This year, we need at least 75 to 80 percent of the electorate voting. Results from this election (national, state and local) are going to be in place for a long time. This election will set the stage for the future of this Union. The people we put in office will be able to declare policy for a very long time. In America, “We the People” can take control of the government at all levels if we take the time, forget all the hoopla, and do some homework. You have the constitutional right to a private vote, do not feel you must tell anyone how you voted. So many agencies need to declare winners in every election. Make them wait like all the rest of us. Please vote for the right person, not the most popular or the chosen one. If you are Did you IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV flip-flopping around on some choices, look at how that person has conducted himself or herself. Take an old fashioned approach and go with what you want. I, as a card carrying American voter for many years, have gone with the system of looking at the man or woman. Will they do the job that they are being elected for? Or do they have the “Old Boys Club” label? Look out. If you take the time to vote, do it right. Do whatever you can to vote your choice and not for the “we need him or her” candidate. The future is now. Elections are very important. This year in the state of Michigan, we have state-wide ballot proposals that want us, the Michigan voters, to revise our State Constitution. It’s a trick. Look out. Take the old fashioned advice: If someone wants you to vote for constitutional changes, stop, look and listen to all sides. Keep the Michigan State Constitution intact for future generations to appreciate. To all the newer generations, get the memo and do your duty and vote for the future of this country with a merger of new and old fashioned ideas. Our state and national Constitutions are not dead yet. It’s time for all good people to come to the aid of their country! Stephen Jacobs, Hastings Obama is for other 99 percent To the editor: Some people seem confused about who to vote for for president Nov. 6. For me, the decision is simple. Romney would be an excellent president for the 1 percent. But I am not a millionaire, I am part of the 99 percent of Americans. For me, the choice is easy. President Obama clearly has the needs of the people — the 99 percent of us — in mind. He supports women, education, the environment, worker’s rights, seniors and medical care for all, to name just a few issues. President Obama cares about our nation and will continue to be a good leader. President Obama gets my vote Tuesday. Jackie Schmitz, Middleville see? Working together builds a better community A 1993 Chamber of Commerce brochure asks, “Can you imagine living in one of the 100 best small towns in America?” The brochure talks about Nashville residents Sandy Lundquist (left) and shopping in stores where Shirley Dexter took it upon themselves to rid village you know the salespeople streets of weeds and debris. With no fanfare, the two and they know you and cleared the better part of Main Street’s sidewalks. being so close to your place Businessman Gary White caught them in the act and of business that you can still snapped this photograph in early October as the run home for lunch. It also women quietly shaped up the landscape. Lundquist evokes the days of living 10 and Dexter are co-chairs for a new group dedicated minutes from open country to the growth and overall improvement of Nashville. and good fishing, yet being little more than a half-hour During the group’s most recent meeting, Rick from an international airport, fine symphony Moore from the Thornapple Trail Association orchestras and a number of industrial parks. congratulated the group, stressing the imporIt’s a place where you’re on a first-name tance of local volunteerism and “getting things basis with city officials, county commission- done.” He talked about the fitness trail that ers and other governmental officials. You can goes through Nashville and the number of volstill find an affordable home in a place where unteers working to expand the system. families settle down and raise their kids in the Moore mentioned the support of the Maple kind of place America was meant to be. Valley building trades classes developing “fit” That all happens in Hastings which, in strips along the route. The students are build1993, was selected by Norman Crampton as ing fitness stations to offer different levels of being among The 100 Best Small Towns in exercise for trail users. And in Middleville, the America. Boy Scouts are building kiosks to be used as At the time, area and national media outlets information centers which will be placed were contacting the local chamber of com- along the route. merce to learn more about Hastings and why it “We’re really gonna have to work together made the list. The local chamber office was to survive,” says Moore. getting calls from interested citizens and busiThese are just a few recent highlights of nesses wanting to know more about our town. what can be done when local citizens take it It was a great time for our community because upon themselves to make this a better place to of the acknowledgment for something that live for all of us. we’ve been promoting for years — Hastings If we expect our communities to continue as a great place to live, work and play. to grow and prosper, it’s important that local That’s why I was a bit disappointed to read leaders keep an open mind on how they view recently that the Hastings City Council turned requests from citizens throughout the year. down the opportunity to make Green Street Whether it’s a festival, a parade, a fundraisthe center of attraction for our annual er or even trick-or-treating, the way local leadHalloween trick-or-treating. As I was growing ers deal with these issues impacts the kind of up, Green Street was always considered a community we become in the future. must on the list of places to go – it’s been a The 1993 Chamber of Commerce brochure Hastings tradition. said, “Take a look around, look at what’s Yet, when former council member Dave going on, meet some special people and MacIntyre recently stood before the council to choose one of the best small towns in the request closing a portion of the street during country.” trick-or-treating to make it safer for kids, his The joys of small-town life still exist in request was turned down due to the expense of places all around our county – but we must putting up a few barricades. According to city never take them for granted. They exist officials, it would cost around $850 to set up because people like those listed in this column and remove the barricades before and after the continue to give their time and their talent to event. Some council members also questioned make this one of the Best Small Towns in why this year, and why just Green Street. America. For decades, Green Street has been the center of attention for the annual event, attracting more than 1,000 children. Probably the most important issue would be the safety of the kids, yet it relates to why Hastings was chosen over 20 years ago as one of the best. At Christmas time, many communities One of the most important responsibilities around the state promote certain neighbor- Americans possess is the right to choose their hoods as the place to see lots of lights and dec- leaders — the people who play a role in deterorations. They’ve become popular attractions, mining what kind of a country we will become drawing hundreds if not thousands of onlook- in the coming years. ers to enjoy the holiday spirit. As a nation, we’ve fought for the right to That could happen with Halloween in vote and should be vigilant in protecting those Hastings. So, when council members turned rights. We’ve also fought in counties around down the request to close off the street, local the world to help others obtain those same citizens and Hastings Rotary Club members rights. took it upon themselves to offer their services So, as Election Day nears - set aside some to get the job done — protecting children as time to look over the roster of candidates and they trick-or-treat through the neighborhood. the proposals you’ll find on the ballot. To see Our publications throughout the year spot- a sample ballot, go to www.michigan.gov/ light hundreds of community activities where vote, choose ‘public ballot’ from the buttons volunteers come out of the woodwork to help on the left, then select county and respective when needed. jurisdiction, and click on ‘generate ballot.’ Just last weekend, Jon Anderson and some This edition of the Banner includes numerous of his fellow employees at Pennock Hospital stories on area candidates. put together a challenge mud run to raise The economy still remains upmost on votfunds for our annual United Way fund drive. ers’ minds. So, as you sit down to make your The event was fun for all involved, plus it choice, know that it will go a long way in attracted hundreds of people to watch. More determining what the economy might look than 350 braved the mud and cold to help the like in the next four years. United Way. Over recent weeks in Nashville, a group of Fred Jacobs, vice president citizens has met to discuss what they can do to of J-Ad Graphics support their community and all its assets. Cast your vote Tuesday Cygnet corps Jan Atanay of Delton snapped this photo of a swan family Monday morning on Lake 21. Notice the lighter color on the adult swans (right); the cygnets still bear their “Ugly Duckling” feathers. We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Please include information such as where and when the photo was taken, who took the photo, and other relevant or anecdotal information. Do you know? Fedora lineup Do you recognize any of these men? Do you know why or when this photo was taken? The door has a sign for a doctor, possible an optometrist. The man on the right is likely Robert Sherwood. What can you tell us about this photo? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide What do you think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the questions posed each week by accessing our website www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. a little more information about the event to reunite the photos with their original clippings or identify photos that may never have been used. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@jadgraphics.com; or call 269-945-9554. Last week’s photo of FFA members drew several responses, including calls from two of men pictured. They are (seated, from left) Bob Case, Hastings ag teacher Ted Knopf, (standing) Richard Miller and Bob Shurlow. Miller and Case, who called the Banner after the photo was published, said they had received an award from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation for a soil and water conservation project they had completed through FFA. Miller said the photo was taken in the spring of 1955, shortly before he and Case graduated. Last week’s question: Monday’s final presidential debate now bring into focus the Nov. 6 election. Were the debates helpful in shaping your final opinion? 47% 53% Yes No For this week: We’ve finally reached the finish line. Let’s see how we do on prognosticating the finish ... q q Obama Romney �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 1, 2012 — Page 5 Long arm of the law shouldn’t extend to hand-picked officials IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV Absurdity is basis of proposals To the editor: It is an unusual event for me to be writing about anything political. I believe the voting privilege we have in our country is a very personal obligation. But as business owner, I am writing today about the great state of Michigan. A few months ago, I was fortunate to participate in the West Michigan Policy Forum, along with more than 600 business and community leaders from around Michigan. For two days, there was open and diverse dialog on the potential future policy directions for our state. Monday, I attended the Grand Rapids Economic Club luncheon where Gov. Rick Snyder was the speaker. Different from other times he has spoken, Monday, he briefly spoke and spent an hour answering questions, all related to the six ballot proposals. I have already voted on an absentee basis, and fortunately had time to review the proposals. The wording in them is very misleading. I find it offensive that proposals cannot be written so the average person can understand what they are voting on. The ballot proposals will have a huge impact on our state, and the information flooding the radio and TV is not accurate. Monday, Gov. Snyder, in a very non-partisan way, reviewed the proposals and the tremendous impact they will have on our state. For example, regarding Proposal 6, the new-bridge initiative, We have all seen the commercials that imply our schools will fail for lack of funds if an additional bridge is built to Canada. That is ridiculous. The bridge is not being built with our tax dollars — it is being built by Canada. After they are repaid by Canadian taxpayers and through tolls (in about 50 years), then it will be a revenue stream for Michigan. We need this bridge for commercial trade that will help continue the rebirth of Michigan. We need this bridge to attract new businesses to Michigan. We need this bridge so current employers do not leave due to poor access. Commercials supporting Proposal 4, which would allow unionization of home health care workers, imply that our elderly family members will get poor care if the proposal is not voted in. That also is ridiculous. What it would do is require family members who are taking care of their own parents to pay union dues. That is absurd. Proposal 2 would have a devastating impact to our economy, if passed. This will impact 170 laws and 18 constitutional provisions already in place to protect workers. It will provide unions incredible power over the state. Gov. Snyder, who clearly stated he is not against unions, said if it passes, it will begin an onslaught of litigation that could put our state on hold for three years, while the resulting legal mess is resolved. The uncertainty would move our state backward. The Right Place in West Michigan and similar organizations in Southeast Michigan are working hard to draw new businesses to Michigan. No business will want to relocate here, if this passes — and many might leave. There are too many other states to go to, with much less uncertainty. This would be devastating to the economy of our state. Gov. Snyder said he believes in Michigan and believes in non-partisan politics. The only way we can succeed is working together with a positive attitude. He knows how to make that happen. We cannot go backward, economically. I do remember the days when the expression was “last one in Michigan, turn the lights off.” We cannot have that happen again. We have a great state with great people. Please pass the word along. Proposal 1 is a “yes,” and vote “no” on the rest. Pass the word along to your employees, friends, children and neighbors. As Gov. Snyder said, we are all Michiganders. Let’s keep Michigan moving forward. Jamie R. Mills, Grand Rapids Regardless of data, Americans need to work together To the editor: Which president is to blame for gas prices and economic troubles? A letter writer can select datum that makes his case rather than looking at the bigger picture. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, gas price increased from $1.30 in November 1999 to $3.77 per gallon in September 2008 for a percentage change of 190 percent. By November 2008, gas prices had fallen to $1.95, for a percentage change over eight years of 50 percent. This decrease from September 2008 to November 2008 was caused by the financial meltdown when Lehman Brothers collapsed and many other financial institutions barely avoided bankruptcy. Over the past four years, the price of gasoline has risen from $1.95 to $3.31 per gallon, which is a change of 70 percent. If we selected September 2008 as the base month, since the economy had not crashed and burned yet, the cost of gasoline per gallon has decreased by 12.2 percent from $3.77 to $3.31 a gallon as of October of this year. Yes, the facts can be disconcerting when dissected. Hopefully, they us make us put things in their proper perspective. Our future should find all Americans rowing in the same direction so that our huge potential can be realized. It should be selfevident that continuing to allow our divisive political parties to inflict the death of a thousand cuts on each other and severely damaging America in the process is not acceptable in the past or in the future. We only have to look at ourselves to find who to blame for the current state of affairs. As Pogo would say, “We have met the enemy, and he is us.” Donald M. Wiggins, Nashville Barry County’s future will be determined Tuesday To the editor: When you examine the issues that surround Sheriff Dar Leaf, you have to think of the consequences to Barry County of supporting this type of behavior. Allowing a sheriff to perpetrate the type of behavior of looking the other way while his supporters commit crimes of animal cruelty and overcharge on government contracts — and not only doesn’t pursue them, but joins them, such as James Dull and Mark Englerth have done in the past — is both hypocritical to the oath of office and the people he swore to protect. His protection is to his friends first, make no doubt about it. Being a member of the Constitutional Sheriffs and Peace Officers Association and now going underground even more to the public scrutiny leaves but little doubt of the veracity of their commitment to this group. How can the public feel like they are getting fair treatment under the law when this type of behavior is so prevalent? Should the sheriff endorse candidates while this hands are not so clean? How can the public feel that they are being protected fairly? I would hope the new prosecutor will investigate these past happenings and report her findings to the people of the county when she is seated as the new prosecutor of Barry County. My way of thinking is that if you want to be an active part of government, you will work to support the people’s needs. Lower your department’s demands on the county budget. The sheriff controls $4.3 million of the county’s $14 million general fund budget. One would hope that his outside interests do not represent an expense for the taxpayers. With all of the smoke and mirrors he continues to use, transparency from him continues to remain questionable at best. The sheriff would want you to believe that he has tried to connect with everyone, including me, and discuss his issues — not so. The sheriff continues to blame others for his shortcomings, and excuses his own behavior with “I have tried to sit down and talk but they won’t ...” That’s hogwash; it never happened and never will. The county is in good hands with its dedicated staff members under the direction of the county administrator. These folks continue to seek qualified board members for dozens of community and regional positions that represent millions of dollars of services to county residents. Concerned voters need to be interested in these future relationships in which the county has a commitment to be involved. My challenger has never applied for a board or a committee position or attended a meeting of his expected involvement. Is this who we want to lead us? Honesty and integrity is what you will get from me, I guarantee it. Do the right thing. I am asking for your write-in vote Nov. 6. I will continue to do what I have done in the past — work diligently and honestly for all those in the 7th District. Jeff VanNortwick, Battle Creek To the editor: I am asking my fellow citizens of Barry County Commission District 7, to write in Jeff VanNortwick in the election Nov. 6. Jeff is the incumbent for this office. Over the past almost two years I have attended meetings of the county commission, and learned from listening and asking questions of the commissioners. My district is well represented by Jeff, and in speaking with him, I have found him to be well informed on issues, and also fair in considering how his vote impacts the public. He has taken the time to answer questions posed by his constituents and treated all with respect and civility. Commissioner VanNortwick is now engaged in a write-in campaign due to the low turnout in the recent primary election. Our county and District 7, need Jeff’s experience and counsel as we advance through difficult times. Now is not a good time to change horses. After the primary was held, it became public knowledge that Sheriff Dar Leaf had actively escorted and campaigned for opposition candidates to both Bob Houtman and Jeff. While that may have not been illegal, it certainly has the appearance of being unethical – and very poor judgement – on Dar Leaf’s part. Our justice system is supposed to be blind and unbiased. I suggest that our sheriff’s action was poorly reasoned and wrong. I have been a fan of Sheriff Leaf in the past, and said so publicly, but I disagree with his action in this matter. In the Oct. 18, 2012 edition of this newspaper it was reported in a letter by former commissioner Keith Ferris that in the 2007-08 term, “while performing an approved renovation project in the county jail, Jim Dull (working as an independent contractor-editor’s note) submitted an additional $2,200 expense for work completed. Later, it was proven in court that Jim Dull paid then-Commissioner Mark Englerth for working on this project.” The committee overseeing the work described above was made up of Commissioners Englerth, Don Nevins, Ferris and Sheriff Dar Leaf. Now we have our sheriff engineering an election to attempt to elect two of his handpicked and campaigned-for candidates, Dull and Snow. Would you like to hand pick your boss? It would be more than difficult for the sheriff’s commissioners to be objective and fair in a situation like we have here, especially in budgetary matters. Citizens of Barry County expect to have unbiased people in office. Please join your friends and neighbors in District 7 and write in Jeff VanNortwick. William F. Norris, Dowling Sheriff is protecting constitutional principles To the editor: But for the Oct. 25 letter to the editor titled “Sheriffs should enforce laws, not interpret them,” I had gained considerable respect for the wisdom and intellect of its author, Brian Reynolds. As I read his letter, trying to separate the rhetoric and innuendo from the meat of the issue, I found his point seemed to rest on a contentious opinion, if not a fearful concern that the Constitutional Sheriff’s and Peace officers Association would violate their oath of civil protection and would abuse Constitutional compliance to implement some kind of national coup on all of America, and specifically on Barry and Eaton Counties. CSPOA is a group of about 160 sheriffs from various counties across all 50 states that had come together in an educational environment to learn the historic importance of the Constitution, study its content, intentions and to honor its tenets. Cognitive awareness of the laws related to the Constitution has nothing to do with “interpreting” the Constitution, as Mr. Reynolds would have you believe. To insinuate Sheriff Dar Leaf, Sheriff Mike Raines of Eaton County and/or the CSPOA, all publicly elected officials, are in some way a national conspiracy group bent on the wrongful interpretation of the doctrine and principles of the Constitution is simply ludicrous. More insulting to basic reasoning and common sense is to label Sheriff Leaf, Sheriff Raines and the CSPOA group with terms like “unbalanced,” “mentally unbalanced,” “flawed human beings,” “political crackpots,” “delusional,” “cowboys,” “swashbuckling sheriffs,” and “vain.” At one point in his letter, Reynolds totally contradicts himself quoting Sheriff Leaf as saying, “We have a lot of people — even in our own community — who are scared about (the federal government).” Reynolds then writes, “Of course, he (Sheriff Leaf) is right about that. I have spoken to many of the same people. While some of their fears might be out of proportion, they are not misplaced.” So, why would someone who acknowledges the potential danger to the liberties and freedoms of our American democracy “are not misplaced” be so offended that Sheriff Leaf is dedicated to protecting those same principles to cover our backside? Sheriff Leaf is our county’s top elected enforcement official, who knows the Constitutional issues of authority and has taken it upon himself to consciously educate and prepare to protect our rights as he was elected to do. Reynolds kept stating in his letter, “Wow. Aren’t you proud of your sheriff now?” Just so there is no misunderstanding: I am proud of my sheriff and I praise God for his devotion to what often is a thankless job. Quite frankly, I think there are many other Barry County families, friends and neighbors who are proud of him too and in fact feel safer now that we know the degree and quality of his dedication to the safety of this community. The rest of the letter seems to address Reynolds’ lack of awareness of any threat, stating there was little or no “clear and present danger of official overreach, I think the people of Barry and Eaton Counties have far more to fear from a delusional sheriff than from the federal government.” Apparently, Reynolds has not fully comprehended the “overreach” of the recent National Defense Authorization Act 2012, specifically sections 1021 and 1022 of the NDAA, Public Law Number 112-81 signed into law by President Obama Dec. 31, 2011, which openly runs counter to the foundation of our nation’s rights and freedom as set for in the U.S. Constitution. Sections 1021 and 1022 prescribe military detention in an offshore prison, of any person, including U.S. citizens, without representation, legal cause or trial for an indefinite period of time. It violates the 4th, 5th, and 6th Amendments. It corrodes the ideals of presumed innocence and the fight to a fair trail. It infringes on freedom of speech, religion, assembly, privacy, rights to council, and any other rights enumerated as well as the safety from harm committed by politically powerful enemies of the Constitution, whether foreign or domestic, with emphasis on domestic. As per three-time Emmy Award-winning journalist Amber Lyon, sections 1021 and 1022 “gives the federal government the power to behave like dictators and arrest any American citizen without warrant and indefinitely detain them in offshore prisons without charge.” According to Lyon, confidentiality of sources could become a problem with journalists. NDAA will give power to detain journalists when refusing to reveal sources, calling it an act that is “aiding terrorists.” Pulitzer Prize winner Chris Hedges states, “NDAA is setting up a legal mechanism to criminalize dissent.” Even the American Civil Liberties Union calls it a “catastrophic blow to civil liberties.” Reynolds, you say we have far more to fear from our delusional sheriff than from the federal government. I wonder what Nakoula Basseley Nakoula would say. Arrested, and I believe still under lock and key, for producing an anti-Muslim film trailer that was falsely (my opinion) blamed for the Benghazi massacre. Original arrest was due to the video. Is this a 1st Amendment abuse? You decide. Or perhaps you would like to have been in the boots of U.S. Marine veteran Brandon Raub who was removed from his home in the middle of the night by federal authorities for posting comments on Facebook that someone took offense to and felt they were anti-U.S. government. I researched those comments and in my opinion they were mundane and commonplace compared to other postings I have seen on Facebook. Raub was detained in a mental institution, secluded for 30 days and mentally analyzed several times by psychologists. When he finally got his right to be heard by a judge, he was released immediately. That judge was U.S. District Judge Katherine v. Forrest who “permanently enjoined” Section 1021, calling the “indefinite detention” portion “unconstitutional.” In addition to the above two examples, our U.S. Congressman Justin Amash, is a co-sponsor of HR 3785 which was introduced by U.S. Senator Rand Paul to repeal Section 1021. Also, a Michigan State Rep. Tom McMillin has addressed this issue under HB 5778. Some may feel NDAA is of no concern to local authorities or communities. The folks of Allegan County, our neighboring county, recognized the dangers of NDAA 2012. They petitioned the Allegan County Board of Commissioners by way of a resolution stating in short “all agencies of Allegan County up to and including Allegan County Sheriff Department and all police departments in the jurisdiction of Allegan County are instructed to decline requests by federal agencies acting under detention powers of sections 1021 and 1022 of the NDAA 2012 that could infringe upon residents’ freedom of speech, religion, assembly, privacy, rights to counsel, or other rights not here explicitly enumerated as well as their safety from harm committed by politically powerful domestic enemies of the Constitution.” Perhaps the citizens of Barry County should consider a resolution for our board of commissioners. Are the folks of Barry County ready to step up to protect their rights under the Constitution? Let’s go back to the “clear and present danger” comment. Section 1021 and 1022 are already the law of this nation. We are already in danger and have been since New Years Eve, last December. Some important national, state and local leaders recognize the law as a clear and present danger, enough to initiate legislative action to repeal. What say you? Is this an “official overreach” on a federal level? Do the people of Barry and Eaton Counties have more to fear from Sheriff Leaf and Sheriff Raines than from the federal government? Again, you decide what the truth is. Is it with our locally elected sheriffs who go out of their way to expand their knowledge of protecting citizens and who are, in cases of federal detention without legal cause, perhaps willing to put their lives, careers, and elected office on the line to stand between federal authorities and presumed innocent citizens? It’s a no-brainer as far as I am concerned. Sheriff Leaf and Sheriff Raines are my pick. How about you? Gary Munson, Delton System creates bias among jurors To the editor: I received a letter, postmarked Sept.12, informing me that I was summoned for jury duty Oct. 22. To determine the place of appearance, I was obliged to call the preceding Friday after 5 p.m. and follow the instructions given by juror number. I arrived at at the instructed time, on the required date, and listened to jury selection relative to a high-profile criminal case prosecuted by an attorney from the State Attorney General’s office. I did not hear my name or juror number called, 14 others from the jury pool were impaneled and sworn in. The rest of the jury pool and the challenge rejects were dismissed. Each of us was handed a juror work certificate before we left. Three days later I received a letter, signed by the presiding judge, telling me I “did not appear” for jury duty, that I in possible contempt of court, “which could result in the assessment of a substantial fine and/or jail time (27A-1346 Contempts of Court sec. 1346 Michigan Statutes annotated).” The date on the letterhead was Oct. 23. It was only after I re-read my juror work certificate and read the judge’s letter again that I felt contempt of court. The juror work certificate did not include my name or juror number, but the judge’s letter of intimidation did. Intimidated jurors will react emotionally one of two ways: The fearful will attempt to appease the judge and prosecutor, both paid by the State of Michigan. This biases the juror toward the prosecution, in the manner of a schoolchild following the lead of a bully. The offended or angered will perceive government incompetence, and conclude that a court which screws up juror attendance could screw up evidence, too. I am old enough to remember the case against O.J. Simpson in California where the prosecution lost their credibility. Frederick Schantz, Hastings Commissioners should do homework To the editor: When I appeared before the county board Tuesday, Oct. 2, regarding a budget appeal, commissioners VanNortwick voiced concerns over how the sheriff’s department monitors, inventories, and audits ammunition. Commissioner VanNortwick then asked is there any reason the taxpayers in this county should become alarmed with the aligning of our sheriff with the constitutional party and their vow to protect and hold firearms and to do their own governmental treatment versus what we are seeing with Sheriff Mike Raines over in Eaton County? Is there any reason the people should be alarmed with hoarding of ammunition or firearms by our sheriff? I was unclear at the time what this had to do with a budget appeal, but feeling that Commissioner VanNortwick had a genuine concern regarding this issue, I responded. When I answered these questions I made the offer to Commissioner VanNortwick and any other commissioner to come to the sheriff’s office and make their own inspection of our armory to see just what we have in weapons and ammunition. Commissioner VanNortwick’s response was that he was only performing due diligence. That was four weeks ago. And as of now neither Commissioner VanNortwick nor any other commissioner has come to the sheriff’s office to check for themselves. Now I have to ask, if Commissioner VanNortwick was so concerned with this issue, why didn’t he follow up by doing his own inspection so he could make a report to the taxpayers of this county? It would appear to me that it was another political ploy and personal attack on the office of the sheriff by Commissioner VanNortwick. Further, to the best of my knowledge the constitutional party; Sheriff Mike Raines and our sheriff were not listed on any terrorist watch list, so I am confused by the innuendoes and claims made by Commissioner VanNortwick. I do not believe that there is any proof of Sheriff Raines or our sheriff being members of the constitutional party. But over and above that, how is aligning oneself with an organization that believes in the Declaration of Independence; the Constitution of the United States and the Bill of Rights a bad thing. Maybe a better question is, why haven’t the commissioners aligned themselves with an organization with these beliefs? Robert E. Baker, Undersheriff Barry County Undersheriff �Page 6 — Thursday, November 1, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads Area Obituaries Jeffrey Lynn Kelley Worship Together… Grant Robinson John F. Huntley, Jr. 77572041 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Rev. Ryan Wieland. Sundays - 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Service; Sunday School and Nursery available during both services (Summer Schedule - Adult Sunday School: 9 a.m., Worship & Children’s Programs 10 a.m.) Youth Group, Covenant Prayer, Choir, Chimes, Praise Band, Quilting Group, Community Breakfasts and more! Call the church office at (269) 721-8077 (M/W/F 9 a.m.-12 p.m.), e-mail office@mei.net or visit www.countrychapelumc.org <http://www.countrychapelumc.org/> for more information SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 . HASTINGS ASSEMBLY OF GOD 1674 S. State Rd., Hastings, MI 49058 Phone 269-945-2285. Sunday morning service times: 9 a.m. with nursery and preschool available and 11 a.m. with nursery, preschool and kids’ church available. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 8:45 a.m. Traditional Worship; 10 a.m. Refreshments; 10:45 a.m. Contemporary Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Youth Pastor Eric Gillespie. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. for children and youth, and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Junior and Senior High Youth Group 6:00 p.m. , and several adult small group opportunities. Wednesday Mid-Week Pioneers at 6:30 p.m.: Pioneer Club, 4 years through 5th grade. Adults: Marriage Enrichment class, Women’s Prayer Group and a Men’s Bible Study. Thursday: Senior Adult (50+) Bible Study at 10 a.m. and lunch at Wendy’s, 11:30 a.m. Third Thursday Brunch at 9:30 a.m. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Sunday, Nov. 4 - Worship Service 8 and 10:45 a.m. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Nov. 4 - Daylight Savings Time Ends; Men & Women’s Alcoholics Anonymous 7 p.m.; High School Youth Group 5-8 p.m. Nov. 5 Women of Faith Bible Study 7:30 p.m.; Recovery Bible Study 7:30 p.m. Nov. 6 - Brother of Grace 7 p.m.; Worship Committee 7 p.m. Nov. 7 - Wordwatchers 10 a.m.; God’s Children 5:30 p.m.; Sarah Circle 7 p.m. Nov. 8 - Pasty Flour Mixing 9 a.m.; Clapper Kids 3:45 p.m.; Clapper Kids 3:45 p.m.; Grace Notes 5:45 p.m.; Adult Choir 7:15 p.m. Nov. 9 - Pasty Meat Cutting. Nov. 10 - Pasty Sale. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 945-2645, fax 269-945-2698. Pastor Amy Luckey. http://www.discover-grace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot.com. Friday - 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday - 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday 4 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Lauer Family Funeral Homes 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings Fiberglass Products 945-2471 FREEPORT, MI - Jeffrey Lynn Kelley, age 48, of Freeport, passed away Thursday, October 25, 2012 at his residence. He was born December 16, 1963 in Hastings, the son of Michael Merle Kelley and Patricia (Truesdell-Kelley) Swihart. Jeffrey attended Hastings schools. He was employed at Bradford White in Middleville for 17 years. Jeff loved family, playing with nieces, nephews and cousins. He was always willing to lend a helping hand, to all he knew. Jeff also loved nature, collecting and caring for any injured wildlife he found, then releasing them back to nature. Jeff was preceded in death by his father, Michael Merle Kelley; and uncles, David Kelley and John Kelley. Jeff is survived by his mom, Patricia Swihart; stepdad, Ronald Swihart; brothers, Mick Kelley and William Kelley; sister, Beckey Kelly (Neil); grandmother, Doris Strouse; step-brothers and sisters: Christina (Todd) Warner, Angela (Chad) Wilbur, Shannon (Andrew) Cooley, Richard (Carey) Swihart, Teresa Hummell; nieces, Amber Fitzgerald and Kristal Kelly; nephew, Jeffrey Allerding; and aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. A memorial service will be held Saturday, November 10, 2012 at 3 p.m. at the Grace Brethren Church, 600 Powell Rd., Hastings, MI 49058. A luncheon will follow the services. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message for the family. Mark Gregory Pennock FREEPORT, MI - Mark Gregory Pennock, age 50, of Freeport passed away unexpectedly at Pennock Hospital in Hastings, on Saturday, October 27, 2012. He was born April 16, 1962 in Sullivan, MO, the son of Lee and Helen (Issgrigs) Pennock. Mark grew up in Sullivan, MO, graduating from Sullivan High School in 1980. He married Leigh Bailey on June 18, 1981, also in Sullivan, MO. Mark was employed by Michigan Lasercut in Grand Rapids, for 22 years. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, kayaking, singing and dancing. Mark was preceded in death by his parents, Lee and Helen Pennock. He is survived by his wife, Leigh Pennock of Freeport; son, Jason Pennock of Hastings and son, Jesse Pennock of Nashville. Respecting Mark’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held Saturday, November 3, 2012 at 10 a.m. at the Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. Rev. Carla Smith will be officiating the service. A luncheon will follow the memorial service at Jason Pennock's Residence, 520 E. Thorn St., Hastings. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message to the family. HASTINGS, MI - Grant Robinson, age 91, of Hastings, passed away Monday, October 29, 2012 at his residence. Grant was born on May 1, 1921 in Middleville, the son of Earl and Esther (Schleh) Robinson. He attended and graduated from Thornapple Kellogg High School of Middleville in 1939. Grant honorably served in World War II from June 2, 1945 through December 29, 1946, stationed in the Aleutions. Following the war he was employed at Middleville Engineering for a year. Grant and Carolyn Shellington were married on June 14, 1947. He and wife Carolyn worked as manager of Thornapple Manor, then called the County Farm. Grant farmed for 21 years on his 200 acre dairy farm on East State Road. He was a MABC technician and DHIA milk tester for Barry County. He retired from the Hastings Post Office after 12 years of service in 1984. Grant has been a member of the Grace Wesleyan Church in Hastings since 1947. He was a church treasurer and board trustee and a member of Giddeon. Grant was also a Hastings township treasurer. Grant and Carolyn traveled extensively in the United States, camping in their Airstream “condo on wheels” during retirement. He was a talented wood craftsman. Grant enjoyed gardening, reading and photography, as well. Grant was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Esther Robinson; in-laws, Emmett and Mary (Bouck) Shellington; brothers-inlaw, Howard Shellington, William Shellington and Robert Shellington; sistersin-law, Ruth (Willard) Kidder and Dorothy (Jerry) Barker. Grant is survived by his wife of 65 years, Carolyn (Shellington); sons, Lynden (Patty) Robinson, Gordon (Merry) Robinson, Ron (Patti) Robinson; daughter, Lois (Randy) Frantz; grandchildren, Sadie, Cale, Julia, and Kelley Robinson, Casey (Mitch) Edmondson, Sarah and Nicole Frantz, Nacole Kreiser-Budz, Nick and Christopher Kreiser and Alison (Mike) Stephens; greatgrandchildren, Noah and Logan; brother, Wayne Robinson; sisters-in-law, Frances Shellington, Kathleen (Smith) Sherman, Pat Shellington, Verna Shellington; and many nieces and nephews. Memorial contributions may be made to the Barry County Commission On Aging, 320 Woodlawn Ave., Hastings, MI 49058. Visitation will be held Thursday, November 1, 2012 from 6 until 8 p.m. at Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. The funeral service will be held on Friday, November 2, 2012 at 11 a.m. at Girrbach Funeral Home. Burial will follow the funeral service at Freeport Cemetery. A luncheon will follow the funeral service at the Barry County Commission on Aging. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, in Hastings, please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message to the family. HASTINGS, MI - John F. Huntley, Jr., age 71, of Hastings, died early Sunday morning, October 28, 2012 after an extended battle with emphysema. He was born in Detroit on November 14, 1940 to Frank and Ruth (McCarty) Huntley. He moved to Hastings as a small child and spent the majority of his life there afterwards. He attended Michigan State University, received his law degree from the University of Michigan, and his Masters of Divinity from Western Theological Seminary. He practiced law in Hastings for 30 years as a private attorney and served as a mediator and court referee as well. Following his legal career he was ordained as a Presbyterian minister. His pastoral work included serving as a guest minister for a wide variety of protestant denominations, and as a hospital chaplain. His passions included music, reading, nature, and learning. He is survived by his wife, Bonnie McBain Huntley; his daughters, Jill (Colin) Carpenter and Amy Huntley; his grandchildren, Asher Carpenter, Arie Carpenter and Natalie Mackson; his brother Craig (Sally) Huntley and his sister-in-law Judy Huntley. John became a Catholic late in life and services were held at the Saint Rose of Lima Church in Hastings on Wednesday, October 31, 2012. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Tribute Program, P.O. Box 1000, Dept. 142, Memphis, TN 38148-0142 Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message to the family. HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, Nov. 1 — November Reading Club, “Get Fired Up for Reading,” begins for pre-kindergarten through 12th grades; Movie Memories celebrates the films of Jeanne Crain with “State Fair,” 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 2 — preschool story time enjoys blanket stories, 10:30 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 3 — Lego Club’s Lego Extreme Team Challenge, noon to 2 p.m. Monday, Nov. 5 — computer classes learn Internet basics, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 6 — toddler story time enjoys stories about apples, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30; open chess club, 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 7 — 1st to 3rd Club enjoys lions, 4:15 to 5:15 a.m.; library book club discusses Unfamiliar Fishes by Sarah Vowell, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Call the library for more information, 269945-4263. Ray L. Girrbach Owner/Director 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 • 269-945-3252 Serving Hastings, Barry County and Surrounding Communities for 45 years •Traditional and Cremation Services •Pre-Planning Services •Large Parking Lot - Handicap Accessible •Serving All Faiths •Pre-arrangement Transfers Accepted 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 Family Owned and Operated www.girrbachfuneralhome.net �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 1, 2012 — Page 7 Barry Township Supervisor will face challenger Tuesday BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY by Gerald Stein NORTH N: A 10 4 2 M: K 10 8 3 L: K Q 8 3 K: 6 WEST EAST N: 3 M: A Q 9 L: A 7 3 K: K 8 7 5 4 3 N: 8 7 M: 5 4 L: 10 8 6 4 K: A Q J 9 2 SOUTH: N: K Q J 9 6 5 M: J 7 6 2 L: J 9 K: 10 Dealer: South Vulnerable: East/West Lead: 3N North East N 4N Pass South N 2N 4NT West Pass Pass The Hastings Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Bonnie Mattson Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 of groundwater contamination. The hypocrisy from the state is beyond amusing. Try to do something like this on private property and DEQ will bury you in cease-and-desist orders. Conversely, if the state wants it, their attitude is citizens better deal with it. How can local government impact public schools? Why should local government impact public schools? Isn’t that the job of the school board, the school administrators, and concerned citizens? In general, government tries to do too much, which results in the taxpayer footing the bill for one boondoggle after another. How will you approach the budget woes of local government? Long-term, I will try to change the mindset that government needs to be everything for everyone. This isn’t economically feasible nor is it the principle upon which this country was founded. In the short-term, I’ll use productivity and restraint to minimize the cost of government. Obituary Social News Audra Rayne, born at Spectrum Health Hospital on Aug. 16, 2012 at 11:59 p.m. to Ashley Glenn and Anthony Collins of Middleville. Weighing 8 lbs. 6 ozs. and 21 1/2 inches long. Proud grandparents are Linda and Don Rosendall of Middleville, Steve and Michelle Glenn of Wayne and Pat and Shelia Collins of Middleville. ***** Harper Ann Miller, born at Spectrum Health Hospital on Oct. 8, 2012 at 4:34 p.m. to Joe and Lindsey Miller of Middleville. Weighing 8 lbs. 8 ozs. and 19 inches long. Proud grandparents are Dean and Sonja Lambert of Hastings and Gordie and Janet Miller of Kentwood. ***** Riegan June, born at Pennock Hospital on Oct. 18, 2012 at 5:44 p.m. to Amanda and Ryan McIntyre of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 8 ozs. and 22 inches long. ***** McKenna Maree, born at Pennock Hospital on Oct. 20, 2012 at 5:38 a.m. to Curtis Norman Jr. and Kelsey Bodenmuller of Bellevue. Weighing 6 lbs. 15 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Taylor Ryan, born at Pennock Hospital on Oct. 19, 2012 at 7:00 a.m. to Autum Shriver and Joshua Sleight of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 6 ozs. and 20 1/2 inches long. ***** Whitney Lynn, born at Pennock Hospital on Oct. 21, 2012 at 6:42 a.m. to Corinna Gould and Andrew Robinson of Plainwell. Weighing 6 lbs. 15 ozs. and 18 inches long. ***** Frank R. Boniface HASTINGS, MI - Frank R. Boniface, age 95, of Hastings passed away Tuesday, October 30, 2012 at MagnumCare in Hastings. Frank was born November 19, 1916 in Prairieville Township, the son of Frank and Jennie (Raymond) Boniface. He attended school in Prairieville. Frank married Leta Jones on September 5, 1936 and they were married for 61 years until she passed in April of 1997. Frank retired from Ketchum Machine Company in Freeport after 20 plus years of service. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, travel and going out to eat with family and friends. Frank especially loved camping, hunting and mushrooming in and around the Gaylord area. Frank had a gift to gab, enjoying many conversations with family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Jennie Boniface; wife, Leta Boniface; five brothers and one sister. Frank is survived by his daughters, Maxine Swinehart of Plainwell, Pauline Hurless of Delton, Joan (Jim) Charles of Lowell, Lorraine (Arvin) Minard of Florida and his sons, Raymond Basil (Nancy) Boniface of Delton and Jerry Boniface of Delton; 17 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren. Respecting Frank’s wishes, cremation has taken place and no services are being held. Arrangements made by Girrbach Funeral Home, Hastings. Reids to celebrate 25th wedding anniversary Gary and Gina Reid will celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary on November 7, 2012. Newborn Babies In Loving Memory of our Marriage Licenses Timothy Glen Sleight, Middleville and Maria D. Osoria, Hastings. Michael Patrick Cross, Hastings and Courtney Kae Bennett, Galesburg. Robert Royle Brenner, Delton and Paula Kay Garrison, Delton. Joshua Francis Bossie, Holt and Amanda Dette Mayhew, Middleville. Mother, Grandmother, and GreatGrandmother Jennie Hause who passed away November 3, 2007 We miss you more than ever. Love you always ... Your Family Area Locations to purchase the Hastings Banner! Hastings: One Stop Shop (BP) (M-43 North) Tom’s Market Superette Family Fare One Stop Food (BP) (M-37 South) Hastings Speedy Mart (Shell) Bosley Admiral Penn-Nook Gift Shop P.B. Gas Station (W. State St.) BP Gas Station (M-37 West) Xpress Mart Family Fare Gas Station Woody’s General Store Middleville: Speedway Middleville Marketplace Greg’s Get-It-N-Go Shell Gun Lake: Sam’s Gourmet Foods Gun Lake Amoco Gun Lake Shell Orangeville: Orangeville Fast Stop Cloverdale: Cloverdale General Brown’s Cedar Creek Grocery Delton: Felpausch Shell Banfield: Banfield General Store Lacey: Clyde’s Sportsman Post Pine Lake: Pine Lake Grocery Dowling: Goldsworthys Dowling General Store Prairieville: Prairieville Fast Stop Woodland: Woodland Express Nashville: Trading Post Little’s Country Store Shell MV Pharmacy Nashville C Store Carl’s Lake Odessa: Lake-O-Express Lake-O-Mart Shell Carl’s Freeport: L & J’s Freeport Milling Shelbyville: Weick’s Food Town The Store at Southshore 77566089 Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • address? The first issue I will address is wasteful spending by the township government. One such example is the use of Hummers for law enforcement vehicles, these vehicles are not a cost-effective choice for the township police department as operating and maintenance costs for these vehicles are extremely high. How can local government impact job creation? The unfortunate answer to this question is that local government, all too often, impacts job creation negatively. In my 15-plus years as a business owner, I’ve many times been hampered by slow moving, over-regulating local governments. This is a cost which affects a business’ ability to hire employees. What is your position on medical marijuana and local enforcement? This is a freedom issue, one that was passed into law by voters. Therefore, if a person feels that smoking pot is beneficial to them, I will respect their right to do so. I just hope that person understands my right to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed. What is your position on banning tobacco smoking in public parks? Yikes, this used to be a free country. When is this madness going to stop? What is your position on hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, in Barry County? I’m against fracking due to the proven risk 77572038 Captain M. North looked over the Barry County Bridge Barge as it lay at rest at the Charlton Park Pier. It was time for winterizing the trusty vessel and time for putting her away for the winter. Captain North mused that it had been a successful year of bridge voyages up and down the Thornapple River, starting at Lake Thornapple, stopping at points along the way including the Charlton Park Pier, the Tyden Park Pier, and the Irving Township Pier. These weekly voyages had been successful bridge tournaments as well, with as many as seven tables each week on these popular cruises. Captain North was doing all of the last minute details before the Barry County Bridge Barge would be pulled from the river, wrapped in shrink-wrap, and stored away until spring came back again. A call from the shore caught Captain North’s attention. “Oh, Captain North. Captain North, it’s Vera and Rosy to see you. May we come aboard?” Captain North turned toward his two favorite bridge players, and he waved for them to step aboard. “Be careful,” he warned. “I am preparing the BCBB for her winter’s rest. There will be no more voyages this season.” As Vera and Rosy came aboard, they were breathless with excitement. “Oh Captain North, we know that there will be no more bridge cruises this year, but we just have to bring you something special.” Captain North looked up, amused as usual. “What did you bring me, Vera and Rosy?” he asked. “Tricks and Treats!” they both exclaimed in unison with peals of laughter coming from both of them. Captain North shook his head. “Do you mean Trick or Treat? This is Halloween time, you know.” “Oh, Captain North, we know about Trick or Treat. This is more than that. We are talking bridge talk here, you know.” Captain North knew that it was time to take a break from his winter prep work. “Sit down, Vera and Rosy, and let’s hear your story about Tricks and Treats!” Vera and Rosy took a seat at one of the last card tables still up. Rosy began as usual, “Captain North, we must tell you about our recent success playing at the Kalamazoo Club. We had such a day. May we share just one hand with you?” Captain North was relieved. “I think I have time to hear about one of your latest hands. Go ahead, please.” Vera chimed in. “You won’t be disappointed, Captain, on this hand. It has to do with the Law of Total Tricks. Do you know about the Law of Total Tricks, Captain North?” Captain North suppressed his smile and nodded. Rosy spoke next. “Captain, I was South in this hand, and I had a good six-card spade suit, and not many points. Only about nine high card points, but a good time for a weak-two bid with six spades and most of my points in spades. I opened as the dealer with two spades.” Vera immediately took up the thread. “I looked at my hand carefully, and I saw four more spades in my hand to go with Rosy’s six spades. My spades were good too with the AN and the 10N as well as two others. Do you know what I bid, Captain North?” Before he could answer, Vera almost shouted out, “I bid four spades, Captain North. Can you believe it?” Captain North only nodded. Rosy spoke again. “The contract was four spades in the South, and I was playing the hand. The lead was a safe trump lead since our opponents knew we had a lot of spades between us. The lead did not hurt us.” Here she paused for a second. “I thanked Vera for her wonderful bid. We have been playing the Law of Total Tricks lately, and Vera knew that I had six good spades, and she had four good spades. We added them together, got to ten, and we knew we had a good shot of making ten tricks with spades as trump. Such fun, Captain North.” Captain North could only nod and smile. “Making my plan was the next step on my way to making four spades. I saw that we had three losers once trumps were drawn. We would lose the AK, the AL, and the AM for three losers. Once the trumps were drawn, I led the JL, set up the diamonds, and lost the three tricks as expected. But, we made our contract of 4N.” Captain North nodded and commented, “Well done, Rosy and Vera. It sounds like you enjoy using the Law of Total Tricks to find a trump fit in your two hands.” “Oh, we do, Captain North. That is why we called out to you about ‘Tricks and Treats’ just a bit ago. We took our ten “Tricks” and we were one of the few pairs to make the right bid and so we took top “Treats” as well in the scoring column.” Both Vera and Rosy burst into laughter as Captain North could only smile and say, “Tricks and Treats? Yes, I see your point.” Vera and Rosy beamed as the Captain slowly stood up to finish the winterizing of the Barry County Bridge Barge. “See you in the spring,” he said, as Vera and Rosy skipped off the BCBB. Bridge Question for this week: What is Captain North’s first name? It has never been mentioned in all of the bridge columns about Captain North and Vera and Rosy. The correct answer will win a copy of the Hastings Banner with my autograph. Send your entries to the editor of the Banner. Answer will be announced next week if there is a winner. ***** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) Incumbent B a r r y Township Supervisor Wes Kahler is being challenged in Tuesday’s election by Greg Gay, who has no party affiliation. Incumbent Clerk Debra Knight, a Republican, is not being challenged, nor is f e l l o w Greg Gay Republican and Township Treasurer Judith Wooer. James Alden and Ricky Lawrence, both Republicans, are seeking two open trustee seats. Current trustees Carol Price and Roger Turner Jr. did not file for re-election. A questionnaire was sent to the candidates. Gay was the only candidate to respond. His answers follow. If elected, what issue will be the first you �Page 8 — Thursday, November 1, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of by Elaine Garlock A benefit concert at Lakewood High School for the family of Evan Pung promises a variety of entertainment. The Lake Odessa Community Library will host a fall event, Tea Time, Nov. 10 from 1 to 3 p.m. This annual venture is aimed to boost the building fund for the library. Sunday, Nov. 4, will bring a concert at Central United Methodist Church at 7 p.m. by the musical group King’s Choralers of Grand Rapids. Norwin Pierce, a Lakewood grad, is a member of the singing group. The public is invited. Thursday, Nov. 8, is the annual Memory Tree meeting of the Lake Odessa Area Historical Society. There will be eight trees on which ornaments will be hung as names are read. Refreshments will be served. This is another free event hosted by the local historical society. As a bonus, visitors get to view the permanent displays. The Ionia County Genealogical Society will meet Saturday, Nov. 10, at 1 p.m. at the Freight House. This will be the final meeting for Pam Swiler as president, a post she has held since the society’s inception in 1996. The Ionia County Chapter of Michigan Association of Retired School personnel will meet Thursday, Nov. 15. This will be the annual Christmas party with music by Andy McFarland and Friends. Andy is a retired band instructor at Ionia High School and current director of a volunteer band. Ronald and Marge Erickson were honored by family and friends, at the coffee hour of First Congregational Church Sunday, Oct. 21 to celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary. Their five children are Nancy Hickey of Lake Odessa, Paula Schray, Carol Henton of California, Mark and Janet Pennington, both of Lake Odessa. The Ericksons have enjoyed many winters in Florida. Several ladies from Central United Methodist Church gathered Oct. 16 for an allday sewing session. Andrea Gentner and her sister led the group in making dresses for little girls in Jamaica where the Gentners, their son from St. Johns and Pastor Karen Sorden are going in December. The so-called pillowcase dresses are made by simple directions with adjustable straps. Some sewed, some ironed, some wielded shears and others stuffed casings with drawstrings, so production line techniques could accomplish much in a short time. Thirty-five dresses were completed that day, and several others were taken home to be finished by the ladies later in the week. The following Sunday, the dresses were hung on racks in the sanctuary for all to see. This was a colorful lot of dresses. First Congregational Church hosted its annual harvest supper with turkey and all the trimmings Oct. 25. After the meal, Pastor Mark Jarvey enlightened his audience with a presentation on Guatemala, where he had recently visited as part of his Spring Arbor coursework on a project to witness social justice issues. EDWARD JONES ‘Scary’ investment moves to avoid A presidential election is almost upon us. But if you have young children or grandchildren, you know what’s really important this week is Butterfingers, not ballots, and Pop Rocks, not the popular vote. Yes, it’s Halloween time again, which means you’ll see plenty of witches and vampires scurrying around. You’ll no doubt find these characters more amusing than frightening, but you don’t have to look far to find things that are a bit more alarming — such as these scary investment moves: • Paying too much attention to the headlines — Some headlines may seem unnerving, but don’t abandon your investment strategy just because the news of the day appears grim. • Chasing “hot” investments — You can get “hot” investment tips from the talking heads on television, your next-door neighbor or just about anybody. But even if the tip was accurate at one point, by the time you get to a “hot” investment, it may already be cooling down. And, even more importantly, it simply may not be appropriate for your individual risk tolerance and goals. • Ignoring different types of investment risk — Most investors are aware of the risk of losing principal when investing in stocks. But if you shun stocks totally in favor of perceived “risk-free” investments, you’d be making a mistake because all investments carry some type of risk. For example, with fixed-income investments, including CDs and bonds, one risk you will encounter is inflation risk — the risk that your investment will provide you with returns that won’t even keep up with inflation and will, therefore, result in a loss of purchasing power over time. Another risk you will incur is interest-rate risk — the risk that new bonds will be issued at higher rates, driving down the price of your bonds. Bonds also carry the risk of default, though you can reduce this risk by sticking with bonds that receive the highest ratings from independent rating agencies. • Failing to diversify — If you only own one type of investment, and a market downturn affects that particular asset class, your portfolio could take a big hit. But by spreading your dollars among an array of vehicles, such as stocks, bonds and government securities, you can reduce the effects of volatility on your holdings. (Keep in mind, though, that diversification cannot guarantee profits or protect against loss.) • Focusing on the short term — If you concentrate too much on short-term results, you may react to a piece of bad news, or to a period of extreme price gyrations, by making investment moves that are counterproductive to your goals. Furthermore, if you’re constantly seeking to instantaneously turn around losses, you’ll likely rack up fees, commissions and possibly taxes. Avoid all these hassles by keeping your eyes on the future and sticking to a long-term, personalized strategy. You can’t always make the perfect investment choices. But by steering clear of the “scary” moves described above, you can work toward your long-term goals and hopefully avoid some of the more fearsome results. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 31.76 -.59 AT&T 34.63 -.37 BP PLC 41.73 +.33 CMS Energy Corp 24.22 +.25 Coca-Cola Co 37.04 +.43 Eaton 45.12 -.43 Family Dollar Stores 65.60 +.31 Fifth Third Bancorp 14.49 -.20 Flowserve CP 130.93 +.80 Ford Motor Co. 10.36 -.36 General Mills 39.85 +.37 General Motors 23.28 -.59 Intel Corp. 21.95 +.36 Kellogg Co. 52.90 +1.25 McDonald’s Corp 86.71 -1.25 Pfizer Inc. 25.43 +.24 Ralcorp 72.48 +.38 Sears Holding 66.69 +6.12 Spartan Motors 4.80 +.05 Spartan Stores 14.47 +.26 Stryker 52.19 -.06 TCF Financial 11.33 +.38 Walmart Stores 75.11 +.35 Gold $1709.85 +$3.15 Silver $31.80 -.15 Dow Jones Average 31,107 +5 Volume on NYSE 681M +51M SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN Wilt announces retirement from YMCA Memorization is best by Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Are you looking to replace your Social Security card just because you don’t have it? Then rest assured; you really don’t need to replace it. What is most important is that you remember your Social Security number. Remember, during your formal education, when you used to memorize passages from a book or answers for a test? In the same way, you should memorize your Social Security number. Knowing your Social Security number is important when it comes to work, taxes, banking and other types of business. Treat your number as confidential information and keep it protected. Memorizing your number means you don’t need to carry your Social Security card with you unless you need to show it to your employer. Keep it in a safe place with your other important papers. If you really do need to get a replacement card, it’s easy to apply for a new one. Complete an application for a Social Security card (Form SS-5) and show us original documents proving your U.S. citizenship or immigration status, age and identity. The application includes examples of documents you may need; you can find the application at www.socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber. Then, take or mail your completed application and documents to your local Social Security office. We will mail your Social Security card to you. If your card is lost or stolen, you can apply for a replacement for free. However, with some exceptions, you are limited to three replacement cards in a year and 10 during your lifetime. Learn more at www.socialsecurity.gov. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. SU 269-967-8241 YMCA Executive Director Tom Wilt has announced to the board of directors of the YMCA of Barry County his intention to retire. The YMCA’s director since 2007, Wilt said he plans to retire in the first quarter of 2013, but has agreed to help the YMCA with the transition for the new director. “We are thankful for Tom’s leadership for the YMCA,” said YMCA Board President David Solmes. “Tom has provided exceptional leadership for our YMCA, including embarking on an endowment campaign to help ensure the future of our YMCA. While we will miss his leadership, we are also confident that the YMCA board is ready to help find a new CEO to help us meet the needs of our community with a strong emphasis on the mission of the YMCA.” A search committee has been formed that will work with specialists from the YMCA of the USA to implement a nationwide search for the best possible candidate, said Solmes. Once finalized, the position will be promoted ! ISE R RP 06790990 �������� COME CELEBRATE WITH HIM @ SEASONAL GRILLE SURPRISE! FRI., NOV. 2ND – 9PM Country Chapel’s Annual Pork & Dressing Dinner Country Chapel UMC will host its annual Pork & Dressing Dinner on … Cell: 269-908-0491 Saturday, November 10th 07612475 $49 — NOON ’TIL FOOD IS GONE — The event will take place at COUNTRY Security System Installed CHAPEL 77572152 9275 S. M-37, DOWLING, MI • 269-721-8077 The Tickets: $8 for adults; $4 for children 6-12 years of age; children under 5 years of age are free The God’s Gals will also be having a Bake Sale. Please join us for this delicious and enjoyable event with Pork, Dressing, Mashed Potatoes, Green Bean Casserole, Squash, Cole Slaw & Pie. EMPTIES FOR EDUCATION 77564841 right individual,” said Solmes. “With the recent completion of our strategic plan, we are poised to continue to meet our mission as we serve more people throughout the county. We need the services that the YMCA provides now more than ever, and we have a great group of volunteers on the YMCA board to help set our direction for the future.” The search process is expected to take four to five months. The application process will be conducted through online submission process handled by the YMCA of the USA. Those interested in the position may apply at http://tinyurl.com/Barrycounty-ymca-ceo More information on the Y can be viewed by visiting its website, www.ymcaofbc.org. Karl is 40! Ty Greenfield ® through both local and national sources. “I have been blessed to serve this YMCA and work with exceptional volunteer leaders,” said Wilt. “When I started here in 2007, we all knew that the intent was to continue to build on the strength of past leaders and begin an endowment initiative that would allow this YMCA to be an independent organization into the future.” Wilt has led the YMCA through increased program development throughout the county and increased its endowment funds to support general operations, camp maintenance and the establishment of the Bob King Legacy Fund to help provide scholarships to families in financial distress. “This should be a great opportunity for the Several Delton Kellogg and Hastings High School students are dual enrolled, attending the Battle Creek Area Math and Science Center (BCAMSC) for a portion of each day. The Center provides advanced instruction to a select group of students from Barry, Branch and Calhoun counties. In an effort to support their transportation expenses, these students and their families are participating in the “Empties for Education” fund raising event. They would like to ask members of the community to help support their efforts, by donating returnable bottles and cans. Your donations will be accepted at the Barry County Telephone office, in Delton, during regular business hours. Please package your donations in clean, tied plastic bags. Thank you for supporting these gifted students. 77572087 Exercise helpful in retirement by Dr. E. Kirsten Peters I don’t know about you, but I find it all too easy to sometimes come up with a reason I cannot exercise on a given day. I tell myself that my life is too crowded with work and meetings, or that I’m too tired from sleeping poorly the night before. Mind you, if I do exercise I always feel the better for it. But there is what a scientist might call an “energy barrier” to finding what it takes within myself to go for a swim at noon or a significant walk after work. I find that as I get older, it’s not easier to come up with the energy to exercise. So in that sense, I can sympathize with people in retirement who find it quite a struggle to work up a sweat on a regular basis. In short, I’m sure it’s easy for older Americans to come up with excuses to avoid daily exercise. And some people do have medical conditions that prevent them from lifting weights or playing tennis. But it’s also true that most of us, whatever our age, could do better than we do. And the news is that even if you are in retirement, it’s not too late to start to enjoy the good effects of regular exercise. At least that’s the picture painted by a recent study from Sweden reported by the website WebMD. It was a big study, following 1,800 people for 18 years. People in the study were at least 75 years old when they were enrolled in the program. Half of the participants lived to be 90 years old or older. Results of the study showed that participants who swam, walked or exercised regularly in other ways lived an average of two years more than those who didn’t. And exer- cise was the single biggest predictor of how long a person in the study was going to live. Add in factors like not smoking and having a rich social life, and the study found that elderly people with the healthiest lifestyles lived about 5.5 years longer than those with the worst lifestyles. (The study didn’t include information on diet, a factor that might also make for some significant differences.) Gisele Wolf-Klein, M.D., of the geriatric education division of the North Shore-LIJ Health System, commented about the study to WebMD. “It’s been known for a long time that adjusting lifestyle behaviors at any age can be beneficial in terms of health and survival,” she said. That’s right. Both your health and your very survival can be impacted by working up a sweat each day, and that’s true no matter your age. Wolf-Klein has one anecdotal example of the positive effects of exercise in the elderly. Her mentor was a smoker until he had a massive heart attack after age 70. “He gave up smoking ‘cold turkey’ after that and began exercising on a stationary bicycle 30 minutes each day,” she said. “He is still doing it at the age of 94.” No excuses now — let’s get going. Dr. E. Kirsten Peters, a native of the rural Northwest, was trained as a geologist at Princeton and Harvard universities. Follow her online at rockdoc.wsu.edu and on Twitter @RockDocWSU. This column is a service of the College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences at Washington State University. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 1, 2012 — Page 9 Pioneer school boy ran away and became Civil War soldier, part 2 The following is part of a series that began in the April 30, 1914, Hastings Banner regarding Hickory Corners native Alonzo D. Cadwallader, and his recollections as a boy soldier. He was assigned to Company K, 17th Michigan Infantry when he enlisted just shy of his 15th birthday. He reportedly said he was 18 and from Kalamazoo. ***** The following morning’s reveille faintly penetrated far off dreamland and at first sounded like the soft hum of the bee as it sipped nectar from the flower, then it changed to the tones of a lute in the hands of some loved one seeking to beguile, and then the shrill tones of the bugle were heard as they were aroused from slumber. When the men arose and looked around o’er the yet unburied dead and noted the absence among them of many a familiar face, their hearts were sad as they thought of “man’s inhumanity to man.” Here brethren of the same blood were fighting each other for principle, the said-brother shooting brother arrayed in the ranks of the enemy. Half the horror of a fratricidal war cannot be told. The roll call revealed the absence of more than a fifth of those engaged in battle. No time was lost by unnecessary delay, for the decisive battle had not yet been fought. The haversack contained the frugal meal. The ammunition wagons, always near the front in times of danger, brought forward a full supply, and cartridge box and belt were filled for future use, and then the 17th with its brigade was soon in motion. As they advanced along the pike, slowly at first, the narrator observed the dead and dying, but one poor fellow who was undergoing his death struggle, with the rattle in his throat, particularly attracted his attention. He was young and early in his teens and the fortunes of war had snipped him. He was paying the penalty of those who caused the quarrel higher up. He thought that some Southern home would soon be draped in mourning for a hero it had sacrificed upon the altar of its country. The next three days and nights following the battle of South Mountain were spent in marching and counter-marching, for the troops were deployed by the guiding hand of the general like pieces on a chess-board. The two armies were maneuvering for position and advantage ere they again clashed, in a decisive battle. Two-hundred-thousand troops in that Maryland campaign then faced each other determined not to yield supremacy. One brigade was ordered to support a battery, and the soldiers laid on their arms, in the rear of the guns, ready to spring forward and defend them from capture, in case the enemy should charge them. The battery seemed to annoy the enemy greatly and drew the concentrated fire of their artillery. Pandemonium reigned in and around that battery as the enemy tried hard to silence it. Shells screamed and burst, and round shot whizzed and plowed the ground. The narrator observed the greatest danger was in the rear. The tendency was to overshoot, but many a shot and shell fell in and around the battery and among the troops supporting it. The battery’s guns were some distance apart, and the cannoneers not actually engaged in serving them, stood by, some distance apart, ready to spring forward and take the place of a disabled comrade. As they lay there intently watching, one comrade suddenly exclaimed, “See those shots go!” The narrator observed that by carefully looking in line with the shot he could distinguish a swiftly moving streak. The night before the great battle opened, which was to decide the fate of that campaign, the final disposition of the contending military units was made, to be disarranged, perhaps, on the following morning. The night was dark, and more than 200 guns on a side spit fire and flame, from commanding positions, sending forth their missiles of destruction; yet, nevertheless, it was a grand sight to behold. It resembled a fierce thunderstorm minus the wind and rain. A continuous roar and rumble like the artillery of heaven, and chariots of war speeding o’er rough pavements. Early the next morning, the 17th with its brigade, was in motion maneuvering here and there to counteract the enemy. About three o’clock in the afternoon, it advanced quickly down the pike and crossed Antietam Creek over a narrow bridge and deployed to the right between the creek and a high steep bluff and formed in line of battle. They were at the front now and on the firing line soon to be. With due respect to his superiors, the narrator thought, and still thinks, the crossing of that bridge was a military blunder and a useless sacrifice of life, for the enemy had their guns trained on that bridge and the creek could have been forded anywhere. When behind the bluff, they had a temporary shelter. The enemy tried to toss its shells over among them, but the shells overreached and exploded harmlessly in the rear. The crown of the bluff, with its steep and rugged ascent was covered with scrubby timber, and open fields lay beyond as they soon afterward learned. A skirmish line had been sent ahead to clear the way and feel out the position of the enemy, but some daredevils had evaded them and remained in the treetops at the brow of the bluff and opened fire on the line. They were, however, quickly disposed of. The order to advance was shortly given and the line was soon in motion. It moved forward slowly and laboriously up that steep incline RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP BUDGET PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Rutland Charter Township Board will hold a public hearing on the proposed Township Budget for fiscal year 2013, at a regular meeting to be held on Wednesday, November 14, 2012, at 7:30 p.m. at Rutland Charter Township Hall, 2461 Heath Road, Hastings, Michigan. THE PROPERTY TAX MILLAGE RATE PROPOSED TO BE LEVIED TO SUPPORT THE PROPOSED BUDGET WILL BE A SUBJECT OF THIS HEARING. Robin J Hawthorne, Clerk Rutland Charter Township 2461 Heath Road Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 948-2194 enemy seemed to take delight in bombarding them and worked their guns vigorously. Shells screeched and screamed, and round shot went bounding along the ground – safety lay in lying close, and Mother Earth was never embraced more affectionately. All things have an ending, they say, and the kaleidoscope of the battle changed. The enemy’s artillery fire slackened, and an advance was ordered – then the musket balls began to sing. Sgt. Tuttle [A James H. Tuttle of Jackson, member of the 17th Michigan Infantry, Company K, died Sept. 17, 1862. He was 24 upon his enlistment in June. Source: Don Harvey, Michigan in the War. org.] of Company K was struck squarely between the eyes by a musket ball. He reeled from the ranks near the narrator like a drunken man. The enemy, it was said, was in a cornfield just in front, their skulking forms could not be seen, but their musket balls sang like swarms of bees. The brigade charged up to and over a fence into a lane just in front of the cornfield and there, behind the fence, waged a fierce protracted conflict with the stalks. After a time, the enemy emerged from the other side of the cornfield, and the tide of battle receded. Another brigade moved in between and assumed the brunt of battle in a clear and open field beyond the corn. The narrator admired those brave fellows who stood up in line unflinchingly while shells burst in their faces. It was a hot place and they were soon relieved by other troops as the enemy slowly and sullenly retired. The field at last was won and would have resulted in the annihilation or capture of Lee’s whole army if it had not been for Col. Miles’ cowardly surrender at Harper’s Ferry, when aid was near, two days before Lee’s army, shattered and broken, slipped across the Potomatac into Virginia. The battle of Antietam was fought on the 17th day of September, 1862. The Union loss was 2,010 killed and 9,416 wounded. The Confederate loss was 3,500 killed and 16,399 wounded. (Continued next week) Trustee race to be decided in Johnstown Township In Johnstown Township, Republican incumbents Barbara Earl, supervisor; June Doster, clerk; and Karmen Nickerson, treasurer; are running unopposed. Incumbent trustee Karen Doster faces opposition from challengers Jeffrey Warren and Democrat Robin Johnson for two trustee seats. Three candidates are running as trustees for three non-partisan positions on the Dowling Public Library board: Cynthia Hart, Eve Sidney and Russell Trongo. Of the township position candidates, only Johnson responded to the Banner’s questionnaire. What is the biggest issue facing the township today? Johnson: I see a need to work with planning and zoning to be able to enforce guidelines to clean up unsightly/unhealthy conditions within the community where it’s apparent that properties are not maintained. What do you offer as a township leader? Johnson: 34-plus years working for the federal government, administrative experience providing oversight and guidance for an organization with over 1,000 employees, analysis experience managing a budget of over $7 million, and organization management experience as a program manager for several different programs. I’ve worked with private and government agencies. What differentiates you from other candidates? Johnson: I don’t personally know the other candidates, but I’m high motivated and genuinely interested in taking on the position of trustee and learning more about the township and doing the best I can to be an asset and trusted agent for the people in the township. What changes would you make in county government or its programs as they are currently structured? Johnson: I’m unsure. I need to be oriented, and once acclimated, canvass people and make suggestions where appropriate. Who or what provides you inspiration? Johnson: There are a number of individuals that I admire and are good role models who are strong, honest, try to do the right thing for others and themselves, and who have a conscience that keeps them who they are. I hope that I follow in their footsteps well. Hurricane Sandy elicits urgent need for blood Hurricane Sandy caused the cancellation more than 100 American Red Cross blood drives in 11 states along the East Coast, resulting in a shortfall of thousands of units of blood and platelets. “The Red Cross is urging immediate blood and platelet donations in areas unaffected by this storm,” said Todd Kulman, communications program manager for the Great Lakes Blood Services Region of the American Red Cross in a press release. “It’s the blood that is already on the shelves that helps save lives before, during and after a disaster.” While Sandy has impacted the number of people available to donate, hospital patients still need blood and platelets, despite the weather. Local residents may donate at two previously scheduled blood drives in Delton and Nashville. Friday, Nov. 2, a blood drive will be at Delton Kellogg High School, 327 N. Grove St., from 8:15 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 8, Grace Community Church, 8950 E. M-79, in Nashville, will host a blood drive from 1 to 6:45 p.m. Nationwide, around 44,000 blood donations are needed every day to meet the needs of accident victims, cancer patients, and children with blood disorders. If collections are negatively impacted by a disaster, the longterm needs of these patients could also be affected. Donors must be at least 17 years old, be in reasonably good health, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and not have donated blood in 56 days. To make an appointment to donate blood call 800-733-2767 or visit www.redcrossblood.org. O R A N G E V I L L E VOT E R S Hello, The next four years are important in the future of Orangeville Township. The nature of our area could become much more industrialized as gas wells are drilled, fracked, compressor stations, condensate tanks, and pipelines are put in. Our health, real estate values, and quality of life may be effected. The DEQ gets 1/6th "royalty" of the profits from the wells. No one is going to protect us if we don't push it. Thank you – George Williston For pro-active leadership ... VOTE FOR 77572076 No bugle was sounded or roll-call taken. They were anxiously awaiting the psychological moment – still there was delay. The enemy’s skirmish line had been forced back a quarter of a mile or so. A stone house was used as a redoubt – an apple orchard lay between the lines. Then and there, during that beautiful September morn while the dew was yet upon the grass and everything at peace but man, an act of heroism was performed worthy of a better cause. It was a case where discretion would have been the better part of valor. In the narrator’s company, Company K, there was a genuine daredevil. His name, after 50 years, has passed from memory, but the act itself is as clearly remembered as though it happened yesterday. He asked permission of the commanding officer to fill his haversack with apples from that orchard between the skirmish lines. The officer laughed and warned him of the danger. He persisted in his request and gained permission to go – the officer thought he would test his mettle – expecting he would exhibit the “white feather.” He left his gun and went unarmed. He walked briskly to the skirmish line and passed it. They watched him with bated breath. He reached the orchard and commenced to fill his haversack. The boldness of that unarmed soldier ought to have been his shield. A true soldier always takes off his hat at the exhibition of such nerve, but there are always cravens in an army. Some cowardly ruffian shot him down. Two men were sent out under a flag of truce to bring him in – he was wounded in the groin and lived but a short time. A shell was dropped into that house shortly after the incident, and it was quickly vacated. Activity suddenly sprang up all along the front – the skirmish lines were strengthened from time to time, and the soldiers ranged nearer to each other. The brigade moved forward a quarter of a mile or so when the enemy’s cannonading grew terrific with a front and angling fire. The line wavered and was thrown into confusion. The men were ordered to lie flat upon the ground. The order was quickly obeyed, not even an officer of the line remained standing. It was said the supporting batteries ran out of ammunition. The 77572243 A copy of the budget is available for public inspection at 2461 Heath Road, Hastings, Michigan. This notice is posted in compliance with PA 267 of 1976 as amended (Open Meetings Act), MCLA 41.72a(2) (3) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The Rutland Charter Township Board will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audiotapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/hearing upon seven (7) days notice to the Rutland Charter Township Clerk. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Clerk at the address or telephone number listed below. by aid of bush and rock, falling back at times and losing ground. It was an uncertain scramble for the top. When the summit was reached a broad expanse of farming lands appeared to view. There the line halted, and they laid on their arms to avoid the enemy’s artillery as much as possible – they were held in leach by commanding officers. That was a death-trap if the enemy had taken advantage of the opportunity and made a vigorous charge while they were struggling up the steep incline, or after they had arrived at the summit, for they were there without a particle of support, only from the batteries. The brigade could have been annihilated, but such are the fortunes of war. Chances are taken and opportunities lost at decisive moments that decide the fate of battles. As they laid there in the battle line awaiting coming events, the narrator made observations. Back in the rear among the mountains, flags of the signal corps wigwagged orders from commanding officers. At a short distance in front, and in full view, the skirmish lines of the contending armies were actively engaged. The lines were slender – one rank deep – and the soldiers ranged from three to four rods apart in their respective lines, and the lines were from 30 to 40 rods apart. The skirmishers tried to keep their formation regular and their lines straight. Those who could shelter themselves behind a stump or stone or rise or depression of the ground did so; others stood in the open. The two lines kept up a vigorous musket fire at each other. Not many fatalities were observed. The men were nervous, perhaps, and the lines were quite a distance apart for those old muskets – it required good marksmanship to be effective. Sometimes one line would charge and the other waver and fall back. It was a kind of a seesaw between them. That was really the beginning of the fight on the enemy’s right wing, but is only known in history as skirmishing for position. The decisive battle was to come. That night the narrator’s brigade slept in the line on their arms, ready for instant action. The next day at the first glimmer of dawn, they were astir and nibbled their hard tack. WILLISTON FOR SUPERVISOR Paid for by: Committee to elect George Williston, 10334 Keller Rd., Delton, MI. �Page 10 — Thursday, November 1, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Hastings Board of Education has no races in election With three seats on the Hastings Area Schools Board of Education up for election and just three candidates, there will be no school board races for voters in the district to decide when they go to the polls Tuesday, Nov. 6. Incumbent board trustee Jon Hart is running unopposed for a partial term ending Dec. 31, 2014; he was appointed to that seat after trustee Scott Hodges resigned from the post in November 2011. Valerie Slaughter and Louis Wierenga are running for the two six-year seats currently held by long-term board members Gene Haas and Patricia Endsley, who are not seeking re-election. Although his name will still appear on the ballot as a third sixyear candidate, Steve Williams has withdrawn from the race for health reasons. While there is no race for any of the seats on the board, the Hastings Banner asked board candidates fill out a pre-election questionnaire in order to provide constituents with an idea about who will be representing them on the board of education. Only Wierenga provided a photo. Jon Hart and his wife Shelly have lived in Hastings for 19 years and have four children — one who recently graduated from Hastings High School and three who currently attend Hastings schools. Hart has been employed with Hastings Mutual Insurance Company for 21 years. He has a bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University and a master’s degree from Western Michigan University. Why are you running for a seat on the Hastings Board of Education? I want to help lead our school system forward to ensure our children have a high-quality, competitive education and provide them the opportunity to have successful, productive lives in the future. I want to see us compete and work toward a vision leading us toward becoming a premier education system. How do you feel about transparency, Louis Wierenga and what, if anything, do you think should be done to improve it? Transparency is obviously an important issue. Best practices should be benchmarked and implemented to improve transparency. Improved communication and reporting is another avenue toward building greater transparency as mentioned above. However, they’re laws that require us under certain situations to maintain confidentiality and protect people such as under student discipline. What, in your opinion, are the most important issues currently facing Hastings Area Schools? We need to align expenses with revenues to have a balanced budget and a surplus. We have fallen behind in our facilities and it hurts our image. Class size is another big concern. Music, art, and foreign language are important to upgrade. I would like to see vocational program expand. What can Hastings Area Schools do to: • Increase enrollment? We need to implement strategic planning and sustain planning year-to-year, which addresses the key issues facing Hastings Area School System and more importantly, execute on the planning. This will lead to increased student enrollment. • Increase revenue? We have several areas where we need to seek additional funding through bond or millage proposals. If we want to continue to maintain high quality services and attract and retain high quality teachers, administrators, and support staff, we need to seek out new sources of revenue. What are your thoughts on privatization of services? I’m for privatization of services as long as the services received offer as good or better value at reduced cost to the school system and to our taxpayers. Valerie Slaughter graduated from Hastings in 1993, and earned a bachelor’s degree in business, organizational development and administration from Spring Arbor University. She is a claims executive at Michigan Insurance Company, has been secretary for Hastings Youth Athletic Association since 2006, and was the Hastings varsity volleyball coach this past season.. She has three children who attend Hastings Area Schools — Jason, 10th grade, Jesslyn, ninth grade, and Robby, second grade at Central Elementary. Why are you running for a seat on the Hastings Board of Education? I want to help create a school district that attracts families, has a foundation of teamwork amongst the teachers and administration, and that the community and parents are proud to support. How do you feel about transparency, and what, if anything, do you think should be done to improve it? Transparency is a key to building trust within the community and amongst the staff and parents in the district. What, in your opinion, are the most important issues currently facing Hastings Area Schools? Unfortunately, it all comes down to money. In order to offer better classes and extracurriculars, maintain buildings and keep valued teachers and staff, it comes down to getting out of deficit and maintaining a fund balance to support other areas that need to be addressed. What are your thoughts on privatization of services? In making cuts, unfortunately sometimes there are hard decisions, but my opinion is to keep as much within the district as possible. We want to support the community and the people working in the community. This is the only way to gain community support and trust. What can Hastings Area Schools do to: • Increase enrollment? Build a strong educational foundation and increase test scores to make the district one of the top in the area, which will help attract families looking to move, build or apply for school of choice. Finding “Saxon Pride” by working with community and staff to build a foundation of support. • Increase revenue? The main source of revenue for schools is enrollment and fulltime equivalent from the state. We have to work on keeping school of choice kids within our district and attracting families from other districts, as well as promoting the new home school program that increases FTE. Louis Wierenga is a Hastings High School graduate who has lived in Hastings and worked on a family farm his entire life. He and his wife, Mary, have a daughter, Lillian, who attends Hastings Middle School. Wierenga has not held political office but is the past president of Barry County Farm Bureau and is the head of trustees at Hope United Methodist Church. Why are you running for a seat on the Hastings Board of Education? I would like to help with rebuilding the trust in the school system that we had before recent years. How do you feel about transparency, and what, if anything, do you think should be done to improve it? I think all school meetings should be open to the public with no part being closed. What, in your opinion, are the most important issues currently facing Hastings Area Schools? I think the most important thing facing the school now is the lack of trust in the administration and the difficult funding situation for the students. What can Hastings Area Schools do to: • Increase enrollment? I think more vocational classes would help increase enrollment; not everyone is going on to higher education. • Increase revenue? Better management of school funds with the building funds and wiser choices on the part of the administration. What are your thoughts on the privatization of services? I think the school should look at the option, but I like seeing a familiar group of employees taking care of our student needs. that home health workers are not required to avail themselves of the training opportunities, and Home Help Service participants are not required to select service providers from the registry. Proposal 5 New tax limitation amendment In general, nearly all legislative actions require a simple majority vote (affirmative vote of more than one-half of the members elected to a legislative body). However, the Michigan Constitution currently imposes a supermajority requirement (either threefourths or two-thirds of the members serving in the Senate and in the House of Representatives) in certain instances, such as to raise school operating property tax rates or give a law immediate effect. If Proposal 5 passes, the state Constitution would be amended to prohibit the imposition of new or additional taxes or expansion of the base of taxation by the State of Michigan unless approved by a two-thirds majority of members in each chamber of the legislature or by a statewide vote of the people. The requirement would apply to any new state taxes, raising the rates of any existing state taxes and expanding the base of any existing state taxes. The two-thirds vote requirement would not apply when the legislature desires to eliminate a tax, to reduce tax rates, to reduce the tax base, or to authorize local taxes. In these instances, a simple majority vote would be required. If Proposal 5 is rejected, any existing tax limitations or supermajority vote requirements would remain in place. In all other cases, to change the tax rate, add or remove taxes, or change the tax base, a simple majority vote of the legislature is required. Major issues to consider: The rationale for the adoption of supermajority requirements is to restrict legislative powers to make it more difficult to enact tax increases or adopt new taxes. But the evidence in the literature and from other states is mixed. The growth in total state revenues in states with supermajority vote requirements have been similar to that experienced in the nation as a whole. To make up for reduced tax collections arising from supermajority vote requirements and to keep state budgets balanced, states often increase other taxes, fees and charges or decrease the amounts distributed to local governments, school districts, universities, and other entities dependent on state revenues. This can result in local property tax increases or tuition increases to balance the budgets of those entities. Proposal 6 New-bridge construction amendment Trade with Canada is very important to Michigan’s economic health, contributing directly and indirectly to Michigan jobs and income. For more than a decade, representatives from Michigan, the U.S. Federal Highway Administration, Transport Canada, and Ontario Ministry of Transportation have been pursuing construction of an additional international crossing of the Detroit River. If Proposal 6 passes, a statewide vote would be required before the State of Michigan could construct or finance a new international bridge or tunnel for motor vehicles (“new” being defined as a bridge or tunnel opened after Jan. 1). For the question to appear on the statewide ballot, proponents (parties outside of the Michigan state government) would have to gather signatures of registered voters equal to 8 percent of the total votes cast for all candidates for governor at the previous general election. The majority of voters in both the entire state and each municipality in which a bridge or tunnel would be situated must approve the proposal. If Proposal 6 is rejected, the legislature retains the right to approve capital projects, make state appropriations to this purpose, if necessary, and use all other constitutional and legal avenues to approve or disapprove the construction of any new international bridges or tunnels. Major issues to consider: Proposal 2 is intended to block, or stall, construction of the proposed New International Trade Crossing south of the existing Ambassador Bridge in Detroit. It is not a referendum on the proposed bridge, but a constitutional amendment that would require a statewide vote before the state government constructs or finances a new international bridge or tunnel. While it is clear that this proposal would require a statewide vote on proposed crossings going forward, there is disagreement on the effect of this proposal on the interlocal agreement already in place with Canada. Additionally, an unintended outcome of some ambiguous language in the proposal may result in a statewide vote being required for the construction or financing of any bridge or tunnel in the state — international or otherwise. Michigan’s courts would have to decide the ultimate impact of this proposal on the New International Trade Crossing. For more information, visit the council’s website www.crcmich.org. (Additional non-partisan sources regarding the ballot issues Banner readers may want to check include The Truth Squad and Michigan State University Extension.) BALLOT ISSUES, continued from page 1 Constitution. If Proposal 1 passes, PA 4 would be reinstated. If Proposal 1 is rejected, the preceding iteration of the law, PA 72 of 1990 would remain in effect; when PA 4 was suspended, PA 72 was revived. (PA 72 was revived pursuant to Attorney General Opinion No. 7267. This opinion has been challenged and is currently the subject of litigation.) PA 72 does not allow emergency financial managers to abrogate contracts or collective-bargaining agreements, nor does it provide certain other powers contained in PA 4. The legislature would have the power to introduce new legislation to handle financial emergencies should PA 72 still be deemed insufficient. Major issues to consider: At the time PA 4 was adopted, supporters claimed the intent of the law was to encourage locally elected officials and union leaders to make hard budget decisions in a time of economic difficulties and provide emergency managers with more tools to guide a local government out of fiscal distress. Opponents worry that parts of the law are undemocratic and unfair to residents, local government employees and retirees, bondholders, vendors and others. Proposal 2 Collective-bargaining amendment The recession has greatly affected state and local government budgets, resulting in decreased public sector employment. At the same time, policymakers in Michigan and other states have enacted a number of laws that are perceived to adversely affect public sector unions. Among those is the move by Indiana to become the first Great Lakes state, and 23rd in the nation, to enact a right-to-work law. If Proposal 2 passes, the right of public- and private-sector employees to organize for the purpose of collective bargaining would be enshrined in Michigan’s Constitution. The Michigan legislature would not be able to enact right-to-work legislation. The collective-bargaining rights of privatesector employees are established in federal law, so public employees of local governments, school districts and the state would see the most significant changes from this amendment. Under this proposal, the legislature would lose the ability to set limits on the terms and conditions of employment that are subject to collective bargaining, but it would retain the ability to prohibit strikes by public sector employees. If Proposal 2 is rejected, current laws would continue to set parameters within which col- lective bargaining exists for local governments, school districts, institutions of higher education and other political subdivisions of the state. The state’s civil service commission would continue to create the work rules and conditions of employment for state employees, and employee organizations would continue to negotiate with the state employer on matters not covered by civil service rules. Michigan’s legislature would retain the ability to enact right-to-work legislation in the future. Major issues to consider: The amendment would impact private-sector employees by prohibiting right-to-work legislation and has the potential to dramatically alter laws affecting public-sector workers. Most notably, public-sector employees and employers could bring any issue up for negotiation, including those that the legislature has previously deemed a management matter rather than a labor matter. The fundamental question of this proposal is whether the state legislature should have some say over the ability of public-sector workers to organize and the scope of issues that can be bargained, or whether the right of public-sector workers to organize and bargain on all issues is fundamental and should be enshrined in the constitution. Proposal 3 Renewable energy amendment Michigan’s current renewable energy standard, created by Public Act 295 of 2008, calls for investor-owned utilities, alternative retail suppliers, electric cooperatives and municipal electric utilities to generate 10 percent of their retail electricity sales from renewable energy resources by 2015. If Proposal 3 passes, 25 percent of each electricity provider’s annual retail electricity sales in Michigan would be required to be derived from renewable electric energy sources — namely, wind, solar, biomass and hydropower. The implementing legislation would create a phase-in period to put each utility on a path to reach this goal by 2025. If Proposal 3 is rejected, policymakers could still revisit the issue of renewable energy in the future and make legislative changes to require that a higher percent of total energy be generated from renewable sources, alter the types of renewable technologies that qualify under the act, and/or amend the manner in which compliance is monitored and credits are rewarded. Major issues to consider: In addition to reducing the amount of greenhouse gases and other pollutants produced in the state, this amendment would reduce the amount of coal Michigan buys from other states, and keep CITY OF HASTINGS REQUEST FOR BIDS The City of Hastings, Michigan is soliciting bids for the provision of two (2) year 2012 minimum 2500HD, 4WD Extended Cab Pickup Trucks for use by the Department of Public Services. Specifications are available from the Office of the City Clerk. The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in the bid proposals, and to award the bid as deemed to be in the City’s best interest, price and other factors considered. Bids must be clearly marked on the outside of the submittal package - “Year 2012 4WD Extended Cab Pickup Truck #1 and #2.” Bids will be received at the Office of the City Clerk/Treasurer, 201 E. State St., Hastings, Michigan 49058 until 9:00 AM on Tuesday, November 13, 2012 at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. Tim Girrbach Director of Public Services 77572105 more of those dollars in the state; coal is Michigan’s main source of electricity generation. However, the 25 percent standard may pose challenges in balancing the production and transmission of electricity, leading to redundant infrastructure to ensure reliable electricity transmission. The sources of renewable energy would be spelled out in the Constitution and may not be easily altered if the most cost effective or reliable source of energy changes before 2025. Proposal 4 Collective bargaining for in-home care workers amendment The Medicaid-funded Home Help Services Program provides in-home support to people who need assistance with personal care and household chores. The eligible individuals hire and fire home care aides who are paid by the state, with state and federal funds. The purpose of the program is to allow disabled and elderly people to stay in their own homes and out of nursing homes, which is often preferred by participants, while saving money for the state. If Proposal 4 passes, the limited collectivebargaining rights of approximately 42,000 home care aides would be guaranteed (currently, only state police troopers and sergeants have collective-bargaining rights enshrined in the state constitution), but aides would not be considered state employees for any other purpose and would not be authorized to strike. The Michigan Quality Home Care Council would be established in the state constitution and would serve as the public employer of home care aides for purposes of collective bargaining. The council would create a statewide registry of home care aides and provide training opportunities to aides and patients. If Proposal 4 is rejected, home care aides would continue to be employed subject to the same conditions as they were prior to the election. The legislature may choose to enact legislation to provide collective-bargaining rights for home care workers. Major issues to consider: The Medicaidfunded Home Help Services Program would remain in effect, regardless of the outcome of the proposal: this proposal focuses on the unionization of home care workers and the establishment of the Michigan Quality Home Care Council, not on the services available to the disabled and elderly. Proponents of the proposal argue that the registry and training opportunities provided by the proposal would improve the quality of care available to the disabled and elderly program participants, while opponents have countered NOTICE The Barry County Board of Commissioners is seeking applications from volunteers to serve on the following Boards/Commissions: Agricultural Preservation Board (4 positions: 1 representing Natural Resource Conservation, 2 representing Agricultural Interest, and 1 representing Real Estate or Development Interest) Commission on Aging Board (2 positions) Parks and Recreation Board (1 position, Citizen at Large) Region 3B Area Agency on Aging Advisory Council (1 position, Member at Large) This position requires completion of a special application form. Please contact the County Administrator’s Office to request a copy, at 269-945-1284. Applications may be obtained at the County Administration Office, 3rd floor of the Courthouse, 220 W. State St., Hastings; or www.barrycounty.org; and must be returned no later than 5:00 p.m. on Monday, November 19, 2012. Contact 269-945-1284 for more information. 77572097 Delton man shot while driving to World Series A bullet from the gunman who has shot at 24 cars along the I-96 corridor in Ingham, Oakland, Livingston and Shiawasee counties stopped a 46-year-old Delton man from attending the fourth game of the MLB World Series in Detroit Oct. 28. Though he missed the game, Scott Arnold may, fortunately, still have another chance to see the Tigers in the World Series. Arnold was driving east on I-96 near Fowlerville when a bullet hit his driver-side door and punctured his left buttock. No one else was in the vehicle. Arnold was treated at the scene and then transported to Saint Joseph Mercy Hospital in Livingston County. Police believe it may have been a random shot by a gunman who has reportedly fired 23 other times along the highway. Earlier that day, an 18-year-old driver reported having his rear window shot out near the Fowlerville exit. Arnold is the first to be wounded by a bullet. According to reports, Arnold told police he thought a tire had gone flat and pulled off the highway and into a gas station. That’s when he realized he had been shot. Livingston County Police said the victim initially refused to go to the hospital for treatment, but instead wanted to go on to the Tigers’ World Series game. Police believe the shooter is driving a 1988 Chevy Cavalier and is using a 9mm or .40 caliber weapon. Anyone with information about the shootings may call Detective Mark King, 517-540-7953. There is a $102,000 reward for information that leads to the gunman’s capture. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 1, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Russell W. Gleason and Wendy M. Gleason, husband and wife to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systms, Inc., as nominee for Regions Bank, its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated January 15, 2004 and recorded January 28, 2004 in Instrument # 1121392 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: Household Finance Corporation III, by assignment dated March 15, 2012 and recorded March 19, 2012 in Instrument # 201203190002759 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Six Thousand Eight Hundred Ninety-Eight Dollars and Forty-One Cents ($86,898.41) including interest 7.45% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on November 15, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That part of the Northwest one-fourth of the Northeast one-fourth of section 21, Town 1 North, Range 8 West, Described as: The East 12 Rods of the Northwest one-fourth of the Northeast one-fourth of section 21, Town 1 North, Range 8 West. Commonly known as 1801 Mill Lake Rd, Battle Creek MI 49017 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 10/18/2012 Household Finance Corporation III, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our 77571792 File No: 12-67167 (10-18)(11-08) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by James Bradley and Nancy Bradley, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Household Finance Corporation III, Mortgagee, dated October 28, 2004, and recorded on November 3, 2004 in instrument 1136631, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Five Thousand Six Hundred Fourteen and 30/100 Dollars ($95,614.30). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on November 15, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A Parcel of land located in the Northwest 1/4 of section 21; Town 1 North, Range 8 West, Beginning at a point which lies North 05 degrees 20 minutes West 75.00 feet from the Northwest corner of Lot 10, Arnetts Resort; thence North 85 degrees 43 minutes West 273.82 feet, thence North 05 degrees 20 minutes West 70.16 feet for the place of beginning; thence South 05 degrees 20 minutes East 70.16 feet, thence North 85 degrees 43 minutes West 30.83 feet; thence North 89 degrees 9 minutes West 30 feet; thence North 5 degrees 20 minutes West to a point which lies North 83 degrees 34 minutes West of the plat of beginning, thence South 83 degrees 34 minutes East to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: October 18, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #409653F01 77571662 (10-18)(11-08) NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF RIVERSIDE CEMETERY COMPANY OF HASTINGS, MICHIGAN A special meeting of the owners, partners, members, and stockholders of Riverside Cemetery Company of Hastings, Michigan will be held on the 7th day of December, 2012 at Three o’clock in the afternoon at 231 South Broadway, Hastings, Michigan for the purpose of authorizing the transfer of Riverside Cemetery to the City of Hastings. October 29, 2012 RIVERSIDE CEMETERY COMPANY OF HASTINGS, MICHIGAN 1003 West State Road Hastings, Michigan 49058 77572165 STATE OF MICHIGAN 5TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT - FAMILY DIVISION BARRY COUNTY PUBLICATION OF HEARING CASE NO. 08007762-NA PETITION NO. 12008395 TO: Amber McComb l/k/a 311 South Hanover, Hastings, Michigan 49058. IN THE MATTER OF: Lily Rose McComb, dob 07/04/2012. A hearing regarding jurisdiction over Lily McComb and termination of parental rights will be conducted by the court on November 16, 2012 at 8:30 a.m. in Barry County Family Court, located at 206 West Court Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 before Judge William M. Doherty. IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED that Amber McComb personally appear before the court at the time and place stated above. This hearing may result in the termination of your 77572241 parental rights. SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by PHIL W. HART, AN UNMARRIED MAN, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated June 16, 2011, and recorded on June 30, 2011, in Document No. 201106300006442, and assigned by said mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-One Thousand Six Hundred Forty-Five Dollars and Forty-Seven Cents ($91,645.47), including interest at 4.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on November 8, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: THAT PORTION OF THE NORTH 1 / 2 OF THE NORTH 1 / 2 OF THE NORTHEAST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 21, TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST, LYING WEST OF THE HIGHWAY, EXCEPT 2 ACRES ON THE SOUTH SIDE, BALTIMORE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 JPMC.000851 CONV (10-11)(1177571652 01) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Michael J McGill, a married man, joined by his wife, Kelly McGill, who is waiving dower, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Plus, Inc., Mortgagee, dated October 18, 1995, and recorded on October 26, 1995 in Liber 643 on Page 586, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Nationsbanc Mortgage Corporation as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Eight Thousand Nine Hundred FortyOne and 97/100 Dollars ($98,941.97). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on November 29, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land located in the Southeast 1/4 of Section 32, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, described as: Commencing at the Southeast corner of said Section 32, running thence Due North 870.43 feet to the centerline of Irving Road; thence North 47 degrees 22 minutes 30 seconds West 390.25 feet; thence North 54 degrees 17 minutes 30 seconds West 1,021.63 feet; thence North 79 degrees 18 minutes West 567 feet to the point of beginning; thence South 15 degrees 15 minutes West 308.20 feet to the railroad right-of-way fence; thence Northwesterly along said railroad right-of-way fence 450.70 feet; thence North 10 degrees 42 minutes East 319.50 feet; thence South 79 degrees 18 minutes East 475 feet to the place of beginning. Except A parcel of land located in the Southeast 1/4 of Section 32, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, described as: Commencing at the Southeast corner of said Section 32 running thence Due North 870.43 feet to the centerline of Irving Road; thence North 47 degrees 22 minutes 30 seconds West 390.25 feet; thence North 54 degrees 17 minutes 30 seconds West 1,021.63 feet; thence North 79 degrees 18 minutes West 567 feet to the point of beginning; thence South 15 degrees 15 minutes West 208.20 feet to the railroad right of way fence thence Northwesterly along said right of way fence 225.35 feet thence North 12 degrees 58 minutes 30 seconds East 313.85 feet; thence South 79 degrees 18 minutes East 237.50 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: October 25, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #413216F01 77571836 (10-25)(11-15) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Arthur W. Moredick and Dianne M. Weers, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to ABN AMRO Mortgage Group, Inc., Mortgagee, dated March 18, 2005, and recorded on April 15, 2005 in instrument 1144932, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Sixty-Five Thousand Seven Hundred Six and 19/100 Dollars ($165,706.19). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on November 8, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot(s) 3, Algonquin Shores Plat, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats, Page 55. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: October 11, 2012 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #411228F01 77571510 (10-11)(11-01) NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT; ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY SERVICE PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW. Notice under MCL 600.3278: Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale under MCL 600.3201 et. seq., the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. ATTENTION POTENTIAL PURCHASERS AT FORECLOSURE SALE: In the case of resolution prior to or simultaneously with the aforementioned foreclosure sale, U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate Trust 1999-2, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents, may rescind this sale at any time prior to the end of the redemption period. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited to the return of your bid amount tendered at the sale, plus interest. Default having occurred in the conditions of a Mortgage made by Ruth A. Eggleston and Terry L. Eggleston ("Mortgagor"), to Green Tree Servicing LLC (f/k/a Green Tree Financial Servicing Corporation), dated October 9, 1998, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry in the State of Michigan on October 12, 1998, in Document Number 1019220, et. seq., said Mortgage being last assigned to U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate Pass-Through Certificate Trust 1999-2 ("Green Tree"), by Mortgage Assignment dated April 2, 2012, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for the County of Barry in the State of Michigan on April 11, 2012, in Document Number 201204120004425, et. seq., on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due as of the date of this Notice the sum of $120,631.10, which amount may or may not be the entire indebtedness owed by Debtors to Green Tree together with interest at 6.75 percent per annum. NOW THEREFORE, Notice is hereby given that the power of sale contained in said Mortgage has become operative and that pursuant to that power of sale and MCL 600.3201 et. seq., on November 15, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., on the East steps of the Circuit Court Building in Hastings, Michigan, that being the place for holding the Circuit Court and/or for conducting such foreclosure sales for the County of Barry, there will be offered at public sale, the premises, or some part thereof, described in said Mortgage as follows, to-wit: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF RUTLAND, COUNTY OF BARRY, STATE OF MICHIGAN, IS DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE SOUTH LINE OF SECTION 9, TOWN 3 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, DISTANT SOUTH 89 DEGREES 07' 54" WEST, 439.05 FEET FROM THE SOUTH 1/4 POST OF SAID SECTION 9; THENCE SOUTH 89 DEGREES 07' 54" WEST, 439.06 FEET ALONG SAID SOUTH LINE; THENCE NORTH 02 DEGREES 49' 32" WEST, 791.67 FEET; THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES 13' 22" EAST, 439.35 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 02 DEGREES 48' 24" EAST, 790.97 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING; SUBJECT TO AN EASEMENT FOR PUBLIC HIGHWAY PURPOSES OVER THE SOUTHERLY 33 FEET THEREOF. which also includes any interest Green Tree may have in the 1998 MFGD Housing Mobile Home, Serial Number M0308512. The redemption period shall be six (6) months unless the property is established to be abandoned pursuant to MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of sale or fifteen (15) days from the date the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(b) was posted and mailed, or unless under MCL 600.3240(17), prior to the foreclosure sale the borrower follows the procedure set forth in that section to establish the presumption that the property is used for Agricultural purposes, in which case the redemption period shall be one (1) year from the date of the sale. Dated: October 4, 2012 U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior / Subordinate PassThrough Certificate Trust 1999-2, by Green Tree Servicing LLC, as Servicer with delegated authority under the transaction documents By: DONALD A. BRANDT (P30183) BRANDT, FISHER, ALWARD & PEZZETTI, P.C. Attorneys for Green Tree 1241 E. Eighth Street, P.O. Box 5817 Traverse City, Michigan 49696-5817 (231) 941-9660 File No.: 6140.1100 Ad #39457 10/11, 10/18, 10/25, 77571568 11/01/2012 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Joseph A Lively, a married man and Laura Lively, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registrations Systems, Inc., as nominee for Centennial Mortgage and Funding, Inc. its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated December 14, 2007, and recorded on December 20, 2007 in instrument 20071220-0005400, and modified by Affidavit or Order recorded on June 27, 2012 in instrument 2012-001648, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ninety-Four Thousand Four Hundred Sixty-Five and 36/100 Dollars ($194,465.36). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on November 29, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel 1: A parcel of land in the Southeast 1/4 of Section 18, Town 1 North, Range 9 West, described as: beginning at a point on the East and West 1/4 Line of said Section 18, which lies 1955 feet due West of the East 1/4 post of said Section 18, Thence South 225 feet; thence West 175 feet; thence North 225 feet; thence East 175 feet to the place of beginning. Parcel 2: Commencing at a point on the East and West 1/4 line of Section 18, Town 1 North, Range 9 West, which lies 1825 feet West of the East 1/4 post of said Section 18; thence South at right angels to said East and West 1/4 line 225 feet; thence West parallel with said East and West 1/4 line 130 feet; thence North 225 feet to said East and West 1/4; thence East 130 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 1, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #379217F02 (11-01)(11-22) 77572109 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage, made by MADISON D. HOWELL AND LINDA L. HOWELL, husband and wife, whose address is 3070 Madilin Lane, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagor, to MAINSTREET SAVINGS BANK, whose address was 629 W. State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as assigned in the Barry County Register of Deeds to Daemeon Richards and Jennifer Richards, whose address is P.O. Box 53, Hastings, Michigan 49058, and securing that certain Note between Madison D. Howell and Linda L. Howell, as Debtor and MainStreet Savings Bank, as Creditor, dated September 16, 2005, November 29, 2005 and May 6, 2003, and pursuant to that certain guarantee wherein Mortgagor, Madison D. Howell and Linda L. Howell, guaranteed the Note mentioned above and secured the guarantee with Mortgage described above. There is claimed to be due thereon, at the date of this notice, for principal and interest, the sum of SEVEN HUNDRED TWENTY-NINE THOUSAND EIGHT HUNDRED FIFTY-FOUR AND 25/100($729,854.25) Dollars with interest at the rate of 7.75%, as secured by the above-referenced mortgage as of this date. There also shall be attorney’s fees, unpaid real estate taxes and costs. And no proceedings having been instituted to recover the debt now remaining secured by said Mortgage, or any part thereof, whereby the power of sale contained in said Mortgage has become operative; NOW, THEREFORE, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that by virtue of the Power of Sale contained in said Mortgages, and in pursuance of the statute in such case made and provided, the above said Mortgage, will be foreclosed by a sale of the parcels of the premises therein described, or so much thereof as may be necessary, at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse, County of Barry, Michigan, that being the place of holding the Circuit Court in and for said County on the 15th day of November, 2012, at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, of said day and said premises will be sold to pay the amount so as aforesaid then due on said Mortgage, together with interest payable at the rate of 7.75%, together with late fees, legal costs, attorneys fees and also any taxes and insurance that said Mortgagee does pay on or prior to the date of said sale together with interest thereon as though on an open account at the rate of 5% per annum; which said premises are described in said Mortgage, to-wit: THE NORTH 1/2 OF THE WEST 1/2 OF THE SOUTH 1/2 OF THE NORTHEAST 1\4 OF SECTION 30, TOWN 4 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST, CARLTON TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN. The period of redemption will be six (6) months from date of sale. Dated: October 9, 2012 Nathan E. Tagg, Attorney for Daemeon and Jennifer Richards Drafted by: Nathan E. Tagg (P68994) Tripp & Tagg, Attorneys at Law 206 South Broadway Hastings, Michigan 49058 77571632 (269) 948-2900 FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Carl Forsythe, an unmarried man and Tammy L. Peters, an unmarried woman to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for America's Wholesale Lender its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated August 17, 2006 and recorded August 28, 2006 in Instrument # 1169197 Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage was assigned to: BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, LP, by assignment dated March 29, 2011 and recorded April 15, 2011 in Instrument # 201104150004237 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Seventy-Two Thousand Six Hundred Twenty Dollars and NinetyFive Cents ($172,620.95) including interest 7.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on November 29, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The East 132 feet of the West 30 acres of the North one half of the Southeast one quarter of Section 32, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, except the North 583 feet thereof; also the South 208.71 feet of the West 181 feet of the East 313 feet thereof. Also a strip of land described as: The North one half of the Southeast one quarter of Section 32, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, except the West 30 acres thereof. Also except the East 50 acres thereof. Commonly known as 11377 Davis Rd, Middleville MI 49333 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 10/25/2012 Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, LP, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File 77572033 No: 12-69983 (10-25)(11-15) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage, made by MADISON D. HOWELL AND LINDA L. HOWELL, husband and wife, whose address is 3070 Madilin Lane, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagor, to MAINSTREET SAVINGS BANK, whose address was 629 W. State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as assigned in the Barry County Register of Deeds to Daemeon Richards and Jennifer Richards, whose address is P.O. Box 53, Hastings, Michigan 49058, and securing that certain Note between Madison D. Howell and Linda L. Howell, as Debtor and MainStreet Savings Bank, as Creditor, dated September 16, 2005, November 29, 2005 and May 6, 2003, and pursuant to that certain guarantee wherein Mortgagor, Madison D. Howell and Linda L. Howell, guaranteed the Note mentioned above and secured the guarantee with Mortgage described above. There is claimed to be due thereon, at the date of this notice, for principal and interest, the sum of SEVEN HUNDRED TWENTY-NINE THOUSAND EIGHT HUNDRED FIFTY-FOUR AND 25/100($729,854.25) Dollars with interest at the rate of 7.75%, as secured by the above-referenced mortgage as of this date. There also shall be attorney’s fees, unpaid real estate taxes and costs. And no proceedings having been instituted to recover the debt now remaining secured by said Mortgage, or any part thereof, whereby the power of sale contained in said Mortgage has become operative; NOW, THEREFORE, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that by virtue of the Power of Sale contained in said Mortgages, and in pursuance of the statute in such case made and provided, the above said Mortgage, will be foreclosed by a sale of the parcels of the premises therein described, or so much thereof as may be necessary, at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse, County of Barry, Michigan, that being the place of holding the Circuit Court in and for said County on the 15th day of November, 2012, at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, of said day and said premises will be sold to pay the amount so as aforesaid then due on said Mortgage, together with interest payable at the rate of 7.75%, together with late fees, legal costs, attorneys fees and also any taxes and insurance that said Mortgagee does pay on or prior to the date of said sale together with interest thereon as though on an open account at the rate of 5% per annum; which said premises are described in said Mortgage, to-wit: THE EAST 1/2 OF THE SOUTH 1/2 OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 30, TOWN 4 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST, CARLTON TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, EXCEPTING THEREFROM THE FOLLOWING: PART OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 30, TOWN 4 NORTH, CARLTON TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: COMMENCING AT THE EAST 1/4 CORNER OF SAID SECTION; THENCE NORTH 00°37’24” EAST 542.33 FEET ALONG THE EAST LINE OF SAID SECTION TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE NORTH 89°22’36” WEST 309.60 FEET; THENCE NORTH 00°18’04” WEST 265.03 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 89°22’36” EAST 313.87 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 00°37’24” WEST 265.00 FEET ALONG THE EAST LINE OF SAID SECTION TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING; NOW BEING A PART OF RED OAK ESTATES CONDOMINIUM, ACCORDING TO THE MASTER DEED RECORDED IN DOCUMENT NO. 1136354, AND AMENDMENTS THERETO, EXCEPTING THEREFROM UNITS 5, 6, 10, 11, 12 AND 13. The period of redemption will be six (6) months from date of sale. Dated: October 9, 2012 Nathan E. Tagg, Attorney for Daemeon and Jennifer Richards Drafted by: Nathan E. Tagg (P68994) Tripp & Tagg, Attorneys at Law 206 South Broadway Hastings, Michigan 49058 77571637 (269) 948-2900 �Page 12 — Thursday, November 1, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES SYNOPSIS Barry Township Board Regular Meeting Held October 2, 2012 Regular meeting opened @ 7:00 p.m. ROLL CALL: 4 board members and 10 guests. Motion approved minutes with corrections and Treasurers reports as presented for September 2012. Motion approved agenda with 3 additions. Received Department reports. Motion approved MFR and Fire labor for DFD and HCFD. Motion approved D Knight and W Kahler as signers for all BPH paperwork. Motion approved to send letters to Fire Chiefs and Supervisors concerning the county wide AMA agreement. Motion approved requiring the Fair Lake connection fees be forwarded to Barry Township. Motion approved bills and check register for October 2012. Adjourned at 8:42 p.m. Respectfully, Attested to by: Debra J. Knight Wesley Kahler Barry Township Clerk Barry Township Supervisor 77572079 Case No. 12-109-CH CIRCUIT COURT SALE In pursuance and by virtue of a Judgment of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on the 23rd day of August, A.D., 2012 in a certain cause therein pending, wherein The Bank of New York Mellon fka The Bank of New York, as Trustee for the Certificateholders of CWABS, Inc., Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2004-10 was the Plaintiff and Stephen Vandermade, Tracy Vandermade, Household Finance Corporation III the Defendant(s). NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that I shall sell at public auction to the highest bidder, at public venue, at the Barry County Circuit Court (that being the place of holding the Circuit Court for said County), on the 6th day of December, A.D., 2012 at 1:00 o’clock in the afternoon, Eastern Standard Time, the following described property, viz: All certain piece or parcel of land situated in the City of Hastings, County of Barry and State of Michigan, described as follows: Lot 80 of Hastings Heights, according to the recorded Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 41. Tax I.D. 08-55-055048-00 Commonly known as: 1527 North Michigan Avenue, Hastings, MI 49058 This property may be redeemed during the six (6) months following the sale. Dated: October 11, 2012 Sheriff Dar Leaf Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Ronald S. Glaser (P46986) Attorneys for Plaintiff 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 (248) 335-9200 (10-11)(11-22) 77571583 SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by ROBIN M. ELWEN, A SINGLE WOMAN, to EXCHANGE FINANCIAL CORPORATION, Mortgagee, dated July 17, 2003, and recorded on July 28, 2003, in Document No. 1109466, and rerecorded on September 9, 2003 in Document No./Liber 1112854 and assigned by said mortgagee to MICHIGAN STATE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty Thousand One Hundred Seventeen Dollars and Thirty-Two Cents ($60,117.32), including interest at 4.500% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on November 8, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: THE NORTH 74 1 / 2 FEET OF LOT 4 OF BLOCK 4 OF H.J. KENFIELD'S, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN LIBER 1 OF PLATS, PAGE (S) 9 OF BARRY COUNTY RECORDS. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. MICHIGAN STATE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 USBW.001780 FHA 77571657 (10-11)(11-01) Case No. 12-141-CH CIRCUIT COURT SALE In pursuance and by virtue of a Judgment of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on the 17th day of July A.D., 2012 in a certain cause therein pending, wherein THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-9 was the Plaintiff and Teresa Herlein and Duane T. Herlein were the Defendants. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that I shall sell at public auction to the highest bidder, at public venue, at the Barry County Courthouse (that being the place of holding the Circuit Court for said County), on the 29th day of November, A.D., 2012 at 1 pm o’clock in the forenoon, Eastern Standard Time, the following described property, viz: All certain piece or parcel of land situated in the Township of Thornapple, County of Barry and State of Michigan, described as follows: Lot 8, Near Lane Estates No. 1, as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats, Page 7, Barry County Records Tax ID: 14-140-0008-00 Commonly known as: 12942 Near Lane, Caledonia, MI 49316 This property may be redeemed during the six (6) months following the sale. Dated: October 4, 2012 Mark Sheldon Deputy Sheriff Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Ronald S. Glaser (P46986) Attorneys for Plaintiff 43252 Woodward Ave., Suite 180 Bloomfield Hills, MI 77571391 48302 (248) 335-9200 (10-04)(11-15) IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN BANKRUPTCY OR HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY AS TO THIS OBLIGATION, THIS COMMUNICATION IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT IN VIOLATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY OR THE DISCHARGE INJUNCTION. IN SUCH CASE, PLEASE DISREGARD ANY PART OF THIS COMMUNICATION WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE FOREGOING. OTHERWISE, FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES US TO ADVISE YOU THAT COMMUNICATION FROM OUR OFFICE COULD BE INTERPRETED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND THAT ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AS YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE BENEFITS OF THE SERVICEMEMBERS' CIVIL RELIEF ACT. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Virgil D. Walters Jr and Judy L. Walters, husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated October 22, 2004 and recorded November 15, 2004 in Instrument Number 1137258, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Wells Fargo Bank, NA by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Three Thousand Nine Hundred Forty-Three and 90/100 Dollars ($93,943.90) including interest at 6.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 11/08/2012 Said premises are located in the Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Barry County, Michigan: The South 209.00 feet of the North 627.00 feet of the East 365.00 feet of the Northeast 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 25, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, Hope Township, Barry County, Michigan. subject to the right of way over the East 33 feet thereof for Gurd Road. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: October 11, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 326.9846 77571607 (10-11)(11-01) CITY OF HASTINGS NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that the Zoning Board of Appeals of the City of Hastings will hold a public hearing during its regular meeting on November 20, 2012 at 7:00 PM in the City Hall Council Chambers, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. SYNOPSIS PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP Regular Meeting October 10, 2012 Supervisor J. Stoneburner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Present: Supervisor J. Stoneburner, Treasurer K. McGuire, Clerk Owens, Trustee Grundy and Trustee R. Goebel Absent: none Also present were 23 guests. Pledge of allegiance and a moment of silence for our troops Agenda was approved. Minutes were presented to the Board and approved. Correspondence, if any was read. Public Comment was received. Barry County Commissioner report was given. Parks Report was given. Fire Departments report was placed on file. Police Department report was placed on file. Supervisor’s Report was received. Treasurer’s Report was received. Clerk’s Report was received. Approved to pay Township bills for $47,135.38 Approved Motions for the Pine Lake Weed Assessment Approved Motion on the Center Street Light Approved Motion on the BPH Committee Members Appointment Approved Motion to reappoint Sylvia Goebel to the Library Board Approved Motion to appoint Ted DeVries as Township Representative to the Library Board Approved Motion to adopt Ordinance No. 144 Approved Motion to approve a contract with Republic for recycling services, with every weekend service State of Upper Crooked Lake Public comments were received. Board comments were received. Meeting adjourned at 8:53 p.m. Submitted by: Ted DeVries, Clerk Attested to by: Jim Stoneburner, Supervisor 77572084 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Daniel L. Kramer, a married man, and Patricia L. Kramer, a married woman, original mortgagor(s), to Union Federal Bank of Indianapolis, Mortgagee, dated May 8, 2003, and recorded on May 15, 2003 in instrument 1104418, and assigned by said Mortgagee to MidFirst Bank as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Six Thousand Seven Hundred Nineteen and 15/100 Dollars ($96,719.15). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on November 8, 2012. Said premises are situated in Hickory Corners, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the Township of Bary, County of Barry, State of Michigan: The West 443 feet of the South 1009 feet of the East 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 35, Town 1 North, Range 9 West The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: October 11, 2012 For more information, please call: FC C (248) 593-1301 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #403049F02 77571498 (10-11)(11-01) CITY OF HASTINGS — FOR SALE — 2001 4WD CHEVY PICKUP TRUCK The purpose of the public hearing is to hear comments and make a determination on a variance request by owner, Brad Carpenter, 1140 North Michigan Avenue, Hastings. The City of Hastings, Michigan, will accept bids for the sale of one (1) 2001 4WD Chevy Pickup Truck and Snow Plow. This vehicle and equipment will be sold as-is without warranty of any kind. The truck has approximately 70,000 miles on it. Arrangements to view this vehicle can be made by calling 945-2468 weekdays between the hours of 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM. The applicant has requested a variance from Section 90-859 (3) (b) of the City of Hastings Code of Ordinances, that if granted, will allow a fence to be higher than six feet. Bids will be received at the office of the Hastings City Clerk/Treasurer, 201 East State Street, Hastings, MI 49058 until 9:15 AM on Tuesday, November 20, 2012 at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. Legal description of said property is: CITY OF HASTINGS West 66 feet of East 1/2 of Lot 23. The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in any bid, and to award the bid in a manner that the City deems to be in its best interest, price and other factors considered. Written comments will be received on the above request at Hastings City hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 until 5:00 PM on the day of the hearing. Requests for information and/or minutes of said hearing should be directed to the Hastings City Clerk at the same address. The winning bid, if any, will be approved at the City Council meeting on November 26, 2012. Winning bidder must be prepared to take possession with certified funds no later than November 30, 2012. The City will provide necessary reasonable aids and services upon five days notice to Hastings City Clerk (telephone number 269945-2468) or TDD call relay services 1-800-649-3777. No formal bidding forms or documents are required, but all bids must be in writing and sealed. All sealed bids shall be clearly marked on the outside of the bid package as follows: “SEALED BID - 2001 4WD CHEVY PICKUP TRUCK.” Thomas E. Emery - City Clerk Thomas E. Emery - City Clerk/Treasurer 77572107 77572103 STATE OF MICHIGAN BARRY COUNTY 58B DISTRICT COURT PUBLICATION OF NOTICE OF SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT FILE NO. 12-557-GC In the matter of John Fechner v Allicia Lupnitz. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS including: Allicia Lupnitz whose address(es) are unknown and whose interest in the matter may be barred or affected by the following: TAKE NOTICE: A Summons and Third Party Complaint were filed on August 23, 2012 in the 56B District Court, 206 West Court Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 before Judge Michael L. Schipper. Defendant has 28 days to file an answer with the court and serve a copy on the other party or to take other lawful action. If an answer is not file or other action taken within the time allowed, judgment may be entered against Defendant for the relief demanded in the complaint. Stephanie S. Fekkes P43549 Law, Weathers & Richardson, P.C. 800 Bridgewater Place 333 Bridge Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, Michigan 49504-5320 77571989 (616) 459-1171 THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. MORTGAGE SALE--Default has been made in the conditions of a Mortgage made by TIMOTHY LEE COLBURN AND JEANETTE ELLEN NORRIS, a single man and a single woman, Mortgagors, to NPB MORTGAGE, LLC, Mortgagee, dated September 13, 2005, and recorded September 19, 2005, Instrument Number 1153020, of Barry County Records, Michigan, which mortgage has been assigned by mesne assignments to First National Acceptance Company, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due as of the date of this notice $77,593.57, including interest at 12.95% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to the statutes of the State of Michigan, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public auction to the highest bidder, on Thursday, November 15, 2012, at 1 o’clock in the afternoon, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, Michigan. Said premises are situated in the Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 16 of Sundago Park, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, Page 71, Barry County Records; c/k/a 82 Sundago Park, Hastings, MI 49058 The redemption period shall be six months from the date of the sale, unless the premises are determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days. Please be advised that if the mortgaged property is sold at a foreclosure sale by advertisement, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 you will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale, or to the mortgage holder, for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: October 18, 2012 LeVasseur Dyer & Associates, PC Attorneys for Mortgagee Assignee P.O. Box 721400 Berkley, MI 48072 (248) 586-1200 77571824 (10-18)(11-08) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Sequoyah Stuk a married woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for Amerifirst Financial Corporation its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated May 19, 2011, and recorded on May 27, 2011 in instrument 201105270005466, in Barry county records, Michigan, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Seven Thousand Seven Hundred Thirty-Seven and 46/100 Dollars ($87,737.46). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on November 29, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A Parcel Of Land In The North 1/2 Of The Northeast 1/4 Of Section 12, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, Which Commences At The Southeast Corner Thereof; Thence North 26 2/3 Rods For a Place Of Beginning; Thence North 220 Feet; Thence West 198 Feet; Thence South 220 Feet; Thence East 198 Feet To The Place Of Beginning, Hastings Township, Barry County, Michigan. Also: A Parcel Of Land In The North 1/2 Of The Northeast 1/4 Described As Beginning At A Point On The East Line Of Section 12, 24 Rods North Of The North 1/8 Line; Thence North 2 2/3 Rods On Said East Line Of Section 12; Thence West 12 Rods; Thence South 2 2/3 Rods; Thence East 12 Rods To Place Of Beginning, Hastings Township, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 1, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #413723F01 77572044 (11-01)(11-22) IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT 248-5021502. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by William G Mosher, Samantha L Mosher, husband and wife, to Fifth Third mortgage - MI, LLC, Mortgagee, dated September 16, 2005 and recorded September 19, 2005 in Instrument Number 1153026, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Fifth Third Mortgage Company by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Four Thousand Eight Hundred Forty-Two and 90/100 Dollars ($104,842.90) including interest at 6% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 11/29/2012. Said premises are located in the Village of Freeport, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the Village of Freeport, County of Barry, State of Michigan: Lots 3 and 4 of Block 11 of Samuel Roush's Addition to the Village of Freeport, according to the recorded plat thereof, being a part of the North 1/2 of Section 1, Town 4 North, Range 9 West. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: November 1, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 200.9462 (11-01)(11-22) 77572092 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF A MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on September 19, 2006, by Daniel R. Welton and Judith Welton, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, given by them to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on October 17, 2006, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 1171503, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank by an Assignment of Mortgage dated November 15, 2011, recorded on December 1, 2011, in Instrument Number 201112010011202, Barry County Records, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of One Hundred Seventy Thousand One Hundred Ninety-Eight and 08/100 Dollars ($170,198.08); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, November 29, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF HASTINGS, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: Parcel “K”: Commencing at the North quarter post of Section 5, Town 3 North, Range 8 West; thence West along the North line of said Section, 1502.00 feet; thence South 47.67 feet to the centerline of Coats Grove Road; thence 335.05 feet along said centerline and the Arc of a curve to the left the radius of which is 358.10 feet and the chord of which bears South 38 degrees 08 minutes 10 seconds West 322.95 feet; thence continuing along said centerline South 11 degrees 20 minutes 00 seconds West 146.76 feet; thence continuing 169.62 feet along said centerline and the arc of a curve to the right the radius of which is 996.45 feet and the chord of which bears South 16 degrees 12 minutes 37 seconds West 169.43 feet to the true place of beginning; thence continuing 98.04 feet along said centerline and the arc of a curve to the right the radius of which is 996.45 feet and the chord of which bears South 23 degrees 54 minutes 20 seconds West 98 feet; thence North 73 degrees 30 minutes 34 seconds West 247.74 feet to an intermediate traverse line of the shore of Leach Lake; thence North 56 degrees 51 minutes 42 seconds East along said intermediate traverse line 137.21 feet; thence South 64 degrees 57 minutes 21 seconds East 86.06 feet; thence South 77 degrees 06 minutes 50 seconds East 86.58 feet to the place of beginning. Including lands lying between said traverse line and the waters of Leach Lake. Formerly Described as: A parcel of land in the Northwest fractional quarter of Section 5, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, described as: Commencing at the Southeast corner of Leach Lake Plat, according to the recorded Plat thereof, said point being 1376 feet West of the North quarter post of said Section 5; thence South 69 degrees 45 minutes West 326 feet; thence South 47 degrees West 69 half feet; thence South 36 degrees West 441 feet; thence South 21 degrees West 75 feet; thence South 16 degrees West 265 feet; thence Southwesterly along the highway 100 feet for the beginning; thence continuing Southerly along said highway 100 feet; thence West to the Shore of Leach Lake; thence Northerly along said Lake Shore to a point West of the place of beginning; thence East to the place of beginning. Commonly known as: 120 Coats Grove Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058-9509 Parcel Number: 08-06-005-042-00 The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: October 10, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, 77571813 MI 48933 (517) 371-8253 (10-18)(11-08) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 1, 2012 — Page 13 Irving Township leadership will Prairieville Township will see little change change with new supervisor by Julie Makarewicz Staff Writer Irving Township residents will soon see changes in leadership. Current Supervisor George London is not seeking re-election to the top position, but is seeking election to one of two open township trustee positions. Jamie Knight has filed for the supervisor’s job and is running unopposed in the November election after defeating challenger Charlie Boulter in the August primary. Township Clerk Carol Ergang and Jamie Knight Lynnette Wingeier Treasurer Lynnette Wingeier are both unopposed in their bids for re-election. London and Larry Brummel Jr. are unop- home computers to get information about elections, etc. And with the upcoming elecposed in their bids to fill two trustee seats. Below are questions posed to each candi- tion, there is a lot of work on the Internet.” Treasurer dates and their responses. No biographical Lynnette Wingeier, 46, is seeking re-elecinformation was available for Larry Brummel Jr. He currently serves as a township trustee tion as Irving Township treasurer. Wingeier has lived in Irving Township all and is seeking re-election. No photos are her life. She has two children, and she and her available for Ergang, London or Brummel. husband were involved with the Thornapple Supervisor Jamie Knight, 35, of Hastings has lived in Kellogg PTO and athletic boosters. She is also a member o the Caraway Street Irving Township for seven years and is seekministry at Peace Church in Middleville and ing the office of township supervisor. She has served as the Irving Township assists with children’s services and vacation deputy clerk for the past two years. She has Bible school. Why do you want to continue serving the an associate’s degree in administrative assisting from Grand Rapids Community College township? “I have enjoyed representing my neighbors and worked as an associate financial representative the Northwestern Mutual Financial the past 10 years as township treasurer. In Network for 10 years in addition to serving as 2011, I graduated from the Township Governance Academy, and during my studies deputy township clerk. She’s been president of the Friends of the drafted a mission statement that the board Freeport District Library since 2009, a Girl revisits and adopts on an annual basis. It Scout troop leader since 2008, and is involved summarizes my intentions as Irving in children’s religious education programs at Township’s treasurer: to serve the best interests of all our residents by providing and church. What have you been doing to prepare your- maintaining a safe, healthy and enjoyable self for the role of Irving Township supervi- place to live. I recognize the dignity and worth of public service and am dedicated to sor? In preparation for township supervisor, I the highest standards of integrity. I pledge to have been working with a local company to be self-motivated and continually strive to develop a website for the township. I have provide the most efficient, effective and fisalso been working with the current supervisor cally responsible level of service. How important is it to be able to provide to learn more about the supervisor’s role in high-speed Internet service throughout the tax assessments. What do you hope to accomplish in your township? “I am passionate and have spent many first six months of office? In my first six months as township supervi- hours trying to get high-speed Internet to our sor, I would like to see a website up and run- residents. Unfortunately, I don’t see a fix to ning for the township. I will also be taking this problem in the near future. But our resimany classes through [Michigan Townships dents can be assured that I am representing Association] to further my education. them [since] this has moved from just an Residents should know that I am here for Irving Township issue to a county issue that is them to answer any questions or concerns that being worked on [because] we partnered with the Barry County Chamber of Commerce and they may have. What skills/experience can you offer that Economic Development Alliance along with ConnectMi to work towards a solution.” will be useful to this position? Township trustee I am a well-organized candidate and have George London, 76, township supervisor great communication skills. Being on the Friends of the Freeport district Library Board, for 6.5 years, is seeking one of two vacancies as a township trustee. I have gained leadership skills. London is retired and presently serves as a Clerk Carol Ergang, 70, has filed for re-election member of the Freeport Fire Board, the [Baltimore, Irving, Rutland, Carlton, as Irving Township Clerk. She is active with Welcome Corners United Hastings] Fire Board and is chairman of the Methodist Church and has served on the Barry County Michigan Townships Association chapter. Habitat for Humanity Board. Why do you want to continue serving the Ergang was born and raised in the township and has been the township clerk for the township? “I would like to see a cooperative effort to past 11 years. She is a 1960 graduate of Freeport High increase economic activity throughout the School and says she enjoys serving the people entire county and to see a county-wide recyof the township, working elections and taking cling program get started. I am also very concerned about the fracking procedure for oil care of the Irving and German cemeteries. How important is it to be able to provide and gas and the potential environmental harm high-speed Internet service through the town- it could do to our water, soil and air.” How important is it to be able to provide ship? “High-speed Internet is very important to high-speed Internet service throughout the our residents and students so they can use the township? “The high-speed Internet is important for Internet in their homes. We can not get Internet service at the township hall location, business and educational pursuits. It should so my deputy clerk, and I have to use our be provided for all areas if possible.” The lineup will remain the same in Prairieville Township where Supervisor Jim Stoneburner, newly appointed Clerk Ted DeVries, Treasurer Kasandra McGuire, and Trustees Jim Grundy and Rod Goebel are unopposed. All are Republicans. A lastminute flurry of five write-in candidates will join Democrat G.R. Labrecque and Republican Rebecca Kahler to contest five open parks commission seats. Clerk Jill Owens did not seek re-election and resigned earlier this month. Only Goebel and DeVries returned the Banner’s requested questionnaire. What is the biggest issue facing the township today? Goebel: The biggest issue facing the township today is far bigger than the township, which is in good hands, is fiscally sound, and is pro- viding a good place to live and work. The bigger issues are the potential consequences of bad choices elsewhere on the ballot. DeVries: In my eyes, there is no one issue. There are many different ones that are important. I do not have a personal agenda. I will give all issues that come before the township board my full attention and will vote only after understanding the facts of the situation. What do you offer as a township leader? DeVries: As clerk, I am very familiar with the office. Some of my background includes over 30 years’ work experience emphasizing customer service, computer technology and general business; effective communication skills; and I am a certified election official. Goebel: Experience. What differentiates you from other candidates? Goebel: No response. Write-in candidates will impact election in Baltimore Township What looked to be a ballot of uncontested races in Baltimore Township has heated up with the late arrival of three write-in candidates for two trustee seats. Only the name of Arthur DeFields will be on the ballot. Richard Clark, Connie Case and Stephen Case, whose party affiliations are unknown, have thrown in their hats for the trustee posts. Supervisor Bill Miller is unchallenged, as is his fellow Republican Arthur DeFields Penelope Ypma Treasurer Mary Baker. Clerk Penelope Ypma, a Democrat, also is running unopposed. A questionnaire was sent to the candidates address? I would like to continue policies that help for Baltimore Township in regard to seeking office. Ypma and DeFields were the only can- preserve the rural nature of our township. How can local government impact job credidates to respond. Arthur DeFields, 66, of Dowling, has ation? I would like to encourage township resiserved on the Baltimore Township Board of dents to get involved in local government and Review for 3 1/2 years. If elected, what issue will be the first you volunteer opportunities. I would like to see increased recycling efforts for our township address? and promote the use of local goods and servExisting township issues. How can local government impact job cre- ices through a “buy local” campaign. What is your position on medical marijuaation? Keep regulations to a minimum on busi- na and local enforcement? I am not in favor of local government getting ness. What is your position on medical marijua- involved with the medical marijuana laws. What is your position on banning tobacco na and local enforcement? smoking in public parks? Stay with the law. As a fitness instructor, I would most likely What is your position on banning tobacco be in favor of banning tobacco smoking in smoking in public parks? public parks. There is no law against smoking. What is your position on fracking in Barry What is your position on hydraulic fracturCounty? ing, or fracking, in Barry County? I am opposed to hydraulic fracturing in Needs to be done by a reputable drilling Barry County. company. How can local government impact public How can local government impact public schools? schools? Encourage business growth within the Make sure schools stay with budget. Townships don’t have a lot to do with school township. How will you approach the budgetary woes business. How will you approach the budget woes of of local government? Provide the current level of public services local government? that we provide while maintaining our current Make sure money is not wasted. Penelope Ypma, 59, is currently serving a budget surplus, and refrain from imposing any new or increased taxes at the township second term as Baltimore Township clerk. If elected, what issue will be the first you level. DeVries: I’m already handling the duties of township clerk since I won the August primary. The current clerk has resigned her position as of Oct. 14 and I’m running unopposed. I am honored to have the opportunity to work with the board to serve the people of Prairieville Township. What changes would you make in county government or its programs as they are currently structured? DeVries: I really don’t have an opinion on that right now. Goebel: No response. Who or what provides you inspiration? Goebel: The American Dream: opportunity; liberty and government by law, not men; the Constitution and the Holy Bible. DeVries: Most definitely, my family. LEGAL NOTICES SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by ERIC W. BEADLE and JODI S. BEADLE, HUSBAND AND WIFE, to MORTGAGE PLUS OF AMERICA CORPORATION, Mortgagee, dated September 25, 2002, and recorded on October 8, 2002, in Document No. 1088998, and assigned by said mortgagee to U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Four Thousand Four Hundred Twenty-Four Dollars and Forty-Nine Cents ($124,424.49), including interest at 6.250% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on November 29, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: COMMENCING AT THE WEST 1 / 4 POST OF SECTION 28, TOWN 1 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST, THENCE WEST 107.00 FEET TO THE CENTERLINE OF BANFIELD ROAD; THENCE SOUTH 28 DEGREES 00 MINUTES EAST ALONG SAID CENTERLINE 1414.00 FEET TO THE TRUE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE SOUTH 28 DEGREES 00 MINUTES EAST, ALONG SAID CENTERLINE OF BANFIELD ROAD, 500.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 62 DEGREES 00 MINUTES EAST 383.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 28 DEGREES 00 MINUTES WEST 500.00 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 62 DEGREES 00 MINUTES WEST 383.00 FEET TO THE TRUE PLACE OF BEGINNING. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 77572245 USB.002825 FHA (11-01)(11-22) 77572126 77572122 77572128 tell people why you want something, be able to justify it and give a legal basis for doing it. I am looking forward to working with them. How are you going to work with city, township, county and state police? I have a good rapport with the state police, county and city. I don’t know how I can effectively prosecute or defend a case without working well with law enforcement, without communicating, learning what they think are the county’s strengths and weaknesses. You have worked with all three judges as a defense attorney, but what about as Barry County prosecutor? I have communicated with all three and all have been open and willing to meet with me to discuss things we could do differently, what’s working and how to use time more efficiently in court. Each of the judges is completely open to making changes for the better. How do you see the Barry County prosecutor fitting into the community? I think the prosecutor’s job is not only to prosecute cases, but to use our resources to educate people. I have talked to the Commission on Aging about elder-abuse issues. I would like to be more involved with the Substance Abuse Task Force. 77572130 After winning the primary election in August against Tom Evans, Julie Pratt is unopposed in the general election for the office of Barry County Prosecutor. Pratt said she is ready to bolster the strengths of the prosecutor’s office and make changes where needed. Her responses to a questionnaire follow. What issue will you address first when taking office in January? The first thing I want to do is be sure I have a good staff. As promised, we were not going to have anymore ignoring people or yelling at meetings, name-calling or swearing. It’s unacceptable. Soon after I begin there will be a new set of policies. In your first six months or year, what will be your focus? Establish a more formal system for the victim services program. Dovetailing that with the child advocacy issue, I am happy to say I am meeting with the people from Safe Harbor in Allegan County. Then I am going to meet with some volunteers who said they wanted to be involved. How do you see yourself working with the county commissioners? I see a professional relationship ... it’s a team effort. That doesn’t mean everyone will agree on everything. You have to be able to 77572124 Pratt promises to make changes as prosecutor �Page 14 — Thursday, November 1, 2012 — The Hastings Banner CANDIDATES, continued from page 1 today? Attempting to maintain acceptable service levels in all departments while balancing smaller and smaller budgets. What do you offer as a county leader? Four years of experience as a county commissioner and two years as chairman of the board. I am an excellent problem-solver. I have the ability to see both sides of an issue and seek out a responsible resolution. What differentiates you from other candidates? I am making decisions for the entire county that will impact people’s lives for many years. I’m more concerned with the long-lasting effects of my decisions rather than seeking out gratification for myself. I think others are more concerned with the political ramifications rather than what is best for Barry County. What changes would you make in county government or its programs as they are currently structured? I would like to see more cross-training of personnel from all departments. I’d like to maintain good customer service during vacations, retirements, etc. Who or what provides you inspiration? My son, Conroy, and my daughter, Laura. I’ve learned more from watching them grow then they will ever learn from me in their lifetime. Selfishly, when I volunteer and serve our community, I’m only attempting to make it a better place for my kids to live, work and play. District 3 Barb Cichy (D) v. Joyce Snow (R) Snow, 59, defeated sitting commissioner Robert Houtman in the Aug. 7 primary. She has been a resident of four townships in her more than 50 years of living in Barry County. Cichy, 70, is a 40-year county resident who, for the past 20 years has been a community activist. What is the biggest issue facing the county today? Cichy: The loss of budget revenue due to the reductions of the state taxable value on property within Barry County. It may take a decade to see the valuation back to where it was before the economy went into a recession. Meanwhile, the spending of funds should be carefully monitored. Snow: I feel the state of the economy is still the No. 1 issue we face as a county. In talking with people over the last few months, this was a recurring concern. What do you offer as a county leader? Snow: I have a very diverse background that has given me a foundation to understand issues from more than one perspective. I will listen to the constituents, and I will work with other commissioners, organizations and individuals to promote the economic and social health of Barry County. Cichy: Hopefully, my common sense and the ability, along with the interest to investigate issues before I cast my vote. What differentiates you from other candidates? Cichy: There are not that many differences. Candidates campaign for office because they have read or heard discussion on issues and concerns that affect people, property or the environment. I will bring a different perception to the board, I am a Democrat. Snow: I think my diversity differentiates me from other candidates. I have worked in nonprofit, manufacturing, education, workforce development and agriculture. This has given me many experiences, opportunities, and insights that most other candidates have not had. What changes would you make in county government or its programs as they are currently structured? Snow: I need to see how the total system operates from the inside by talking with employees and front line folks. I would look at departmental best practices that could be examples for others and help to identify redundancy and/or programs that are no longer relevant. Cichy: I would like to have the structure of the county’s different boards and agencies condensed so that residents will be able to understand and to visualize the transparency and accountability that should be within the board. Who or what provides you inspiration? Cichy: The residents of the county inspired and motivated me to campaign for the position of commissioner in Barry County. Additionally, I rely on the gift and blessing of the Lord for my everyday life decisions and inspiration. Snow: I am inspired by my parents who instilled in me the value of service, honesty and hard work. They are members of the Greatest Generation who risked everything so the next generation would have a better life. District 4 Jon Smelker (R) — Unopposed Smelker, 62, is a lifelong county resident making his first run for public office. In the Aug. 7 primary, he defeated Dean Bass and Curt Cybulski. Smelker is a U.S. Army veteran and a retiree from E.W. Bliss and the U.S. Postal Service. What is the biggest issue facing the county today? As long as the county commissioners continue to budget within our revenue stream and preserve and equity fund balance, economic development is the biggest issue we face. What do you offer as a county leader? I have attended every county commission meeting since deciding to run for office. This has given me an understanding of the issues facing Barry County, and I will be ready to serve from Day 1. I have leadership experience in my volunteer involvement, employment and military participation. What differentiates you from other candi- Leaders of county offices will remain familiar There will be no surprises in county offices following the Nov. 6 election. Among county officials, Clerk Pam Jarvis, Treasurer Susan VandeCar, Register of Deeds Barbara Hurless, Drain Commissioner Russ Yarger and Surveyor Brian Reynolds are all running unopposed. All are Republicans. Only Hurless and Reynolds returned the Banner’s questionnaire. What is the biggest issue facing your county office today? Hurless: Revenue sharing cuts have affected the county and the register of deeds office. The county has seen employees laid off, stretched beyond their means and office hours cut. These cuts have left many county offices able to fulfill only the basic, everyday duties. Reynolds: The biggest issue for me (and for nearly all county surveyors) is amendatory legislation to restore the remonumentation program to its former scope. A state administrative decision in late 2009 radically changed the scope of the program, to the detriment of Barry County and most rural counties in Michigan. What do you offer as a county leader? Reynolds: The county surveyor has a limited official function. Within those limitations, I offer a dedication to serve the best interests of Barry County. I fight for what is right for of the people Barry County. Separate from the office, I serve my community in a variety of volunteer organizations. Hurless: My work in the office for the past 13 years and filling in for the register as needed has provided the skills and experience necessary to lead the office. I am familiar with the computer systems, documents, laws and statutes. I know how this office operates. What differentiates you from past holders of the office? Reynolds: The county surveyor served an important function through the 19th century, but much less so during most of the 20th century. Beginning in 1993, the remonumentation program placed new (and truly important) duties and responsibilities with the county surveyor. The difference is mostly a matter of luck and timing. Hurless: There is a tremendous learning curve which is why many registers hold their position long term. Each register had strengths that helped develop the office into the excellent one it is today. My greatest strengths are the knowledge and experience demanded of this position. What changes would you make to your office and its program as it is currently struc- tured? Hurless: I will continue on the same efficient path under which the office was run by Darla Burghdoff. I will see through the completion of the conversion to the new software system so that the public is able to purchase documents online. I will review the office budget for any savings. Reynolds: As already mentioned, it is of primary importance that the remonumentation program be restored to its original scope. I would ask our state representative and state senator to get behind legislation that will make that happen. The amendatory legislation will be introduced early in the next session. Who or what provides your inspiration? Reynolds: Surveyors played a big part in our history. Mount Rushmore celebrates “three surveyors and one other guy” (Teddy Roosevelt is the odd man out). Mason and Dixon or Lewis and Clark come to mind. Among local 19th century surveyors, Lucius Lyon, John Mullett and Francis Hodgman were among the best. Hurless: My strong faith in God is a huge inspiration in my life. On a daily basis, my inspiration comes for helping people solve their issues and leave the register of deeds office happy. Primary was decider for Hope Twp. head After defeating incumbent Supervisor Patricia Albert in the Aug. 7 primary, Republican Mark Feldpausch will be the only name on Tuesday’s ballot for supervisor of Hope Township. Incumbent Clerk Deborah Jackson and incumbent Treasurer Arlene Tonkin, both Republicans, are not being challenged. Jackson was appointed clerk earlier this year after the resignation of Linda Eddy-Hough in February. Trustees David Messelink and Meryl Peake, both incumbents and Republicans, are uncontested. All candidates were asked to respond to a Banner questionnaire to share their views with voters, but none of the candidates responded. dates? As a retired person, I have the time to serve the people of Barry County. I understand there are two or more points of view on every issue and that working together is the only way to solve problems. What changes would you make in county government or its programs as they are currently structured? I would like to see the various departments be more user-friendly. They could publish their policies so a user would know what to expect on the first contact. This would also help the county commission fulfill its oversight responsibilities. Who or what provides you inspiration? My faith, my family and my community. District 5 Ben Geiger (R) — Unopposed Geiger, 25, is running for his first full term on the commission after having been appointed to fill the seat vacated by Mike Callton in 2011. On Aug. 7 he successfully fended off a primary challenge from Steve Pyrzynski. What is the biggest issue facing the county today? Closing projected budget gaps and maintaining quality customer service. I don’t shy away from tough decisions and am prepared to take these challenges head on. What do you offer as a county leader? In my two years as a commissioner, I’ve helped balance the budget, maintain a high credit rating and pay down our debts. I am proud of my record and the reforms I have supported. What differentiates you from other candidates? I have worked in the Michigan Legislature as well as the governor’s office. This has given me valuable insight on best practices for local government. I also have a deep understanding of new technologies and how we can best use them. What changes would you make in county government or its programs as they are currently structured? I have been an advocate for simplifying how our citizens interact with government. We can accomplish this by listening to their ideas, examining internal processes and enhancing our online services. Who or what provides you inspiration? First is to leave county government in better shape than I found it. Second is to raise the bar for county government in Michigan by offering second-to-none customer service. District 6 James DeYoung (R) — Unopposed DeYoung, 58, is making his first run for public office following a successful Aug. 7 primary victory over challengers Vivian Lee Conner and Mark A. Doster. He is a former administrator from Thornapple Manor. DeYoung did not respond to the Banner’s questionnaire request. District 7 James Dull (R) v. Jeff VanNortwick (R) Dull, 48, defeated incumbent VanNortwick in the Aug. 7 primary by a 93-vote margin from 983 total votes cast. He is a lifelong Barry County resident who established and runs a building and contracting business. VanNortwick, 61, announced a write-in campaign Oct. 4, following his defeat to Dull in the primary. He has lived in Barry County for 30 years, earned an agricultural technology degree from Michigan State University, and works in landscaping and nursery management. What is the biggest issue facing the county today? Dull: Shortfalls in revenue. The county could face a $700,000 shortfall in 2013 if revenue sharing from the state is cut. A $1.2 mil- Callton seeking re-election to 87th House District State Rep. Michael Callton is being challenged in his 87th District Michigan House of Representatives seat by Democrat Sherry Anderson and Libertarian Joseph Gillotte. Neither Anderson, a Hastings resident, nor Gilotte responded to questionnaires sent by Banner staff. The 87th District includes all of Barry County and most of Ionia County. Callton, of Nashville, was a Barry County commissioner for six years, a school board member for 15 years and a village councilman for five years. If elected, what will be the first issue you address? I’m already elected, but the big focus has been on improving the economy, which will create jobs. How can state and local government impact job creation? By keeping business taxes low, reducing burdensome regulations and improving the labor climate. What is your position on medical marijuana and local enforcement issues of the Michigan Medical Marijuana Act? Being a chiropractor, I look at medical marijuana as a health care issue. I know that marijuana can help with nausea and appetite for cancer patients. I do think there needs to be a more professional delivery system. What is your position on the building of a new Michigan/Canada bridge? The Michigan Chamber of Commerce, General Motors, Ford, Chrysler and Farm Bureau all think a new bridge will be an economic dynamo for the region, and I agree. I am concerned about financing issues. What is one thing you would change about our current health care system? There is not enough competition in most markets ... therefore cost of health insurance is higher than it should be. What can state government do to improve Michael Callton public education? Stop educating young people like they are all going to college. Many will work in the skilled trades and need a different kind of high school experience than those heading to universities. How do you see renewable energy in terms of Michigan jobs and the needed energy for a revitalized economy? I think we have to work on developing renewable energies, but Proposal 3 requires 25 percent renewable energy by the year 2025. Forcing the issue like this could result in much more expensive electric bills. What one thing would you can change about the Michigan tax structure? I would like to see the removal of the personal property tax. It’s not fair to double tax a business for trying to grow. No wonder Michigan loses so many jobs to other states. BOWLING SCORES Tuesday Mixed Boyce Milk Haulers 251; Barry County Red Cross 22.5; Hometown Lumber 22; Hurless Machine 21; J-Bar Antique Tractors 16. Men’s High Game & Series - K. Beebe 192-512; M. Bird 136; D. Wilkins 239-504; C. Steeby 168; C. Featherly 172; D. Blakely 187. Women’s High Game & Series - Sis 181512; N. Boniface 167. Monday Mixerettes Dewey’s Auto Body 237-5; Kent Oil 21-11; Dean’s Dolls 20-12; Nashville Chiropractic 14-18; Creekside Growers 13-19. Good Games and Series - E. Ulrich 188457; J. Rice 171-462; M. Rodgers 175-479; D. Snyder 184; V. Carr 187-508; N. Potter 159423; P. Fowler 162. Senior Citizens Sun Risers 21-11; M&M’s 18-14; Butterfingers 17.5-14.5; Three Gals & A Guy 17-15; Usedtobe#1 17-15; Ward’s Friends 1715; Just Having Fun 15.5-16.5; King Pins 1517; Kuempel 12-20; Early Risers 10-22. Women’s Good Games and Series - Y. Markley 149; E. Ulrich 167; Y. Cheeseman 154; J. Gasper 189-537; N. Frost 142-411; D. Larsen 158; M. Wieland 188-499. Men’s Good Games and Series - H. Bowman 210; L. Markley 162-432; D. Murphy 137-393; R. Boniface 169; G. Forbey 170-421; J. Kleinbrink 155; W. Talsma 201510; L. Brandt 210-558; W. Mallekoote 164434. Wednesday PM Court Side 24-8; Boniface Construction 2111; Hair Care 18-14; Eye & ENT 17-15; Delton Suds 16-16. Good Games and Series - E. Ulrich 166; J. Pettengill 130; S. Beebe 187-488; J. Rice 193; A. Tasker 148; Y. Cheeseman 191-469. Tuesday Trios Wash King 27-9; Sam 27-9; Cbs 22-14; Look Ins. 18-18; Team Turkey 18-18; Classic Trio 16-20; Lu’s Team 14.5-17.5; Coleman Ins. 14-18; Blair Landscaping 13.5-23.5; Ghost Team 0-36. High Game - Shirlee V. 191; Paula R. 190; Luanne P. 174. High Series - Shirlee V. 512; Luanne P. 501; Renee B. 481. Sat. Majors (Youth League) Grimm Reapers 9-3; Kit Kats 8-4; Walking Dead 8-4; Saxons 5-7; Leones 5-7. Girls Good Games and Series - L. Frost 67-146; C. Roush 204-495; S. Gross 97. Boys Good Games and Series - J. Clous 160; K. Kenyon 138-343; J. Elliott 137; K. Kavanagh 144. lion shortfall was predicted for 2012, but didn’t take effect and helped the county avoid going broke. VanNortwick: A steady job market. Graduates are leaving the area and the “brain drain” will affect us all. We need forwardthinking families, businesses, farmers, residents and local governments in this vital and progressive challenge to maintain and move the county in a positive and productive course for the future. What do you offer as a county leader? VanNortwick: I have demonstrated my commitment to this community and will continue to do so by helping to establish credible programs and supporting existing programs with the tools and the help that our talented individuals have to create the environment to excel and create the community spirit needed within the county. Dull: Old-fashioned values and common sense. People want to be asked their views and opinions — they do not want to be told what to think and be directed by their government. What differentiates you from other candidates? Dull: I’m more concerned with talking to my voters and getting their input and ideas. I was told that researching concerns is more important than listening to my voters, but I disagree. VanNortwick: My honesty and dedication. My opponent has taken money for services brought into question and has never applied to volunteer for a committee or board. My special interest is the people of the county and the future only. I have sought to improve my community with my time and skills. What changes would you make in county government or its programs as they are currently structured? Van Nortwick: The local governments and the county are performing their duties professionally. Democracy is working well when transparency is involved. There are opportunities and challenges as we evolve as a community, but I do not see a need to make any dramatic changes. Dull: I want to make government departments more user (voter) friendly. So when people have a question, they get an answer that makes sense, not a bunch of technical jargon that leaves them more lost than when they started. Who or what provides you inspiration? Dull: Problem resolution. I enjoy getting people solutions to their problems and questions. I may not get them the answer they want, but I get them an understanding of why the answer is different than what they asked for. Some sitting commissioners could take lessons from County Administrator Michael Brown. VanNortwick: Seeing a productive program that materializes and benefits the taxpayer. Individuals who work to deny caring folks their passion and concerns by stonewalling them and creating unnecessary obstacles give me inspiration and commitment as well to help them. Not providing a fair and even playing field is counterproductive. Pedestrian hit by car near Freeport The Barry County Sheriff’s Department investigated an accident involving a vehicle and a pedestrian on Freeport Road near South East Street Oct. 28. Preliminary investigation indicated that a Lake Odessa man was traveling east on Freeport Road where he collided with a pedestrian in the roadway. The pedestrian was transported by ambulance to a local hospital for treatment. His current status is unknown. The incident remains under investigation. Names are being withheld. Four people involved in two-car accident on M-43 A two-car accident at the intersection of M-43 Highway and Martin Road in Woodland Township left three people hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries Thursday, Oct. 25. An 18-year-old driver traveling east on M43 failed to yield the right-of-way when turning north onto Martin Road. He collided with a westbound vehicle, driven by a 48-year-old male, who was not able to stop and struck the turning vehicle in the passenger door. The driver of the eastbound vehicle was not injured, but his 61-year-old passenger was transported to Spectrum Butterworth by Hastings Mercy Ambulance. The driver and 22-year-old female passenger of the westbound car were transported to Sparrow Hospital by Nashville Ambulance. Officers said all occupants were believed to have been wearing seatbelts. Alcohol and speed did not appear to be factors. The investigation was conducted by the Barry County Sheriff’s Department and was assisted at the scene by Woodland Fire. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 1, 2012 — Page 15 Trustee seats to be decided in Yankee Springs Township Candidates for the board of trustees in Yankee Springs Township are running unopposed except for the two trustee seats where three candidates are on the ballot. Incumbent Mary Cook and primary victor Bruce Campbell are running as Republicans, while Shannon VandenBerg is running for a trustee seat as a Democrat. Supervisor Mark W. Englerth, born in 1955, lives on Edwin Drive. He is a graduate of Hastings High School and has an associate’s degree from Kellogg Community College in vocational education. He has been self-employed in the building trades for 35 years. He has been a resident of Yankee Springs Township for 23 years and served as county commissioner for District 6 in 2007 and 2008. Among his community activities, he includes the Animal Control building, the Payne Lake Road fire barn, Habitat for Humanity, and 15 years in the Barry County Republican Party. Some say the board is focused primarily on the interests of waterfront property owners. Do you agree? If so, how would you balance competing interests? The waterfront and lakefront lot owners make up the largest population of the township. Two-thirds of the township is either state park or game land. We always have to keep the interests of the overall township in consideration. What measures would you take to restore full library services for township residents in the Wayland school district? We need to have more discussion to find a solution to this issue, which is one of the primary responsibilities of a township, according to the Michigan Constitution. Do you support giving up direct local control of planning and zoning in the township? There is currently discussion to continue to use our current planning commission and the zoning board of appeals using local resident input and partnering with other government entities. Keeping local control and saving taxpayers thousands of dollars. Would you support a local millage dedicated to local roads? Not at this time. The township makes annual contributions to the local road commission of approximately $180,000 and still maintains a very healthy fund balance. Do you support additional renovations to the existing township hall or would you prefer to invest in a new structure? At this time so much money has been spent on the existing structure that careful consideration will need to be given as to how to serve our township needs. Clerk Janice C. Lippert, born in 1946, has lived on Park Drive since 1991. She is running for a fourth term as clerk. In 1995, she was deputy clerk and was appointed clerk in 1996 following the resignation of the elected clerk. She is a high school graduate and has taken business law courses and has credits from the Michigan State University Citizen Planner program. She is certified by the State of Michigan as an election official and by the Michigan Townships Association in accounts payable and payroll, general ledger and government accounting procedures. Her community activities include church membership, the Gun Lake Protective Association and charitable activities. Some say the board is focused primarily on the interests of waterfront property owners. Do you agree? If so, how would you balance competing interests? There is a difference in focus, not in interest. All residents are of equal interest; however our population is concentrated around the lakes. Therefore, more problems occur and require focus. The interests are equal, not competing. Water-oriented development is numerically overwhelming. What measures would you take to restore full library services for township residents in the Wayland school district? The services have already been restored to those residents willing to pay $45 (out-of-district fee). I believe the boundary district map of Henika Library could be revised to include all of the Wayland Union School District taxpayers. This can be done through a ballot proposal referendum. Do you support giving up direct local control of planning and zoning in the township? No. Yankee Springs is so different from Barry County zoning. Yankee Springs Township is recreational and lake-oriented. Less than 30 percent of our land area is habitable; the rest is water and state land. Barry County is mainly agricultural and urban. This would diminish our property owners’ rights. Would you support a local millage dedicated to local roads? Our township roads are in good shape. All taxpayers in Yankee Springs Township have funded road maintenance without a road millage. It is more fair to work within our budget and rely on special assessments roads (at residents request) to correct isolated areas to upgrade these roads. I say “no” to new taxes. Do you support additional renovations to the existing township hall or would you prefer to invest in a new structure? Renovations save tax dollars. New structure is wasteful, ego-driven excess. Treasurer John Jerkatis, born in 1945, lives on Ravens Way Drive and has lived in Yankee Springs for 36 years. He attended Thornapple Kellogg schools and holds an associate’s degree in drafting and design technology from Western Michigan University. He served in the U.S. Army from 1966 to 1969 and was discharged as a first lieutenant. Jerkatis’ work experience is in private industry. His involvement in township government began in 1980. His community activities include membership in the VFW and the American Legion and a fraternity. Some say the board is focused primarily on the interests of waterfront property owners. Do you agree? If so, how would you balance competing interests? I represent the concerns of residents and property owners of every square foot of Yankee Springs. Even though our lake properties are a large percentage of our population, I haven’t seem action by township government favoring interests of waterfront property owners over those in the rural and agricultural areas. What measures would you take to restore full library services for township residents in the Wayland school district? Access to the library services in the Wayland school district for Yankee Springs residents and property owners should be resolved between the residents, the school district and the library. The township can act as an agent for collecting and transferring funds agreed upon, if necessary. Do you support giving up direct local control of planning and zoning in the township? Yankee Springs is a unique and diverse area. The interests of the residents and property owners can best be protected by local control; the responsibility for planning and zoning, development and growth within the township must remain at the local level where residents can contribute input to maximum effect. Would you support a local millage dedicated to local roads? Township boards and county road commissions have practiced continuous maintenance of the roads through tax revenues received by the township. I do not favor a property tax millage for public road maintenance. I support creation of special assessment districts where residents want a more expensive maintenance procedure. Do you support additional renovations to the existing township hall or would you prefer to invest in a new structure? I see no reason for the addition to any township building. For public safety, it may be necessary to expand the parking lot at the Payne Lake Road fire barn when the facility is used as a polling place. That capital expense could be avoided by moving the precinct to another facility. Trustees Bruce W. Campbell, born in 1965, lives on Oakwood Shores and has been a township resident since 1998. He was a mechanic in the U.S. Marine Corps and has a degree from ITT in architectural design. Until acquiring a restaurant in the township, he has worked in private industry. His community involvement has been through donations to projects. Some say the board is focused primarily on the interests of waterfront property owners. Do you agree? If so, how would you balance competing interests? As a 13-year non-lakefront resident of Yankee Springs township, I don’t feel there is a difference. What measures would you take to restore full library services for township residents in the Wayland school district? I would like to review what has and is being done to resolve this issue, then see what I could do to help. Do you support giving up direct local control of planning and zoning in the township? I would review what is being done in other townships, then weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. Would you support a local millage dedicated to local roads? No, I’m not in support of a millage when we have a gas tax that is intended for our roads. Do you support additional renovations to the existing township hall or would you prefer to invest in a new structure? I would like to spend some time there to better understand the use of the current space before thinking of either a new building or renovations. Mary L. Cook, born in 1954, lives on Bowens Mill Road, has lived in the township for 37 years, and is running for her sixth term on the Yankee Springs Board of Trustees. She is a graduate of Thornapple Kellogg High School and has done some post-secondary work at Davenport and Kalamazoo Valley Community College. Cook has worked in the banking industry and is currently a site supervisor at the Barry County Commission on Aging. Her community involvement focused on scouting and athletic activities until she became active in the Commission on Aging and aging issues. Some say the board is focused primarily on the interests of waterfront property owners. Do you agree? If so, how would you balance competing interests? I do not. The number of lakefront lots is much greater than the number of non-lakefront lots, so it may seem that way. But we serve everybody equally. What measures would you take to restore full library services for township residents in the Wayland school district? There is no easy answer to this one. Henika Library wants one-third mill from the entire township when only the westernmost portion lies within their district. I would favor a special assessment on only those households affected by this. Do you support giving up direct local control of planning and zoning in the township? No. I believe we have served our own unique needs quite well by having a planning commission made up of capable local citizens. I also believe we would not realize any monetary savings because the county would have to hire someone to take on the additional load and we would pay for that. Would you support a local millage dedicated to local roads? Maybe some day. But for now, we are able to do what we need to do from the general fund. Do you support additional renovations to the existing township hall or would you prefer to invest in a new structure? I support the current plans for a modest addition to the current office area. I also believe we can improve the energy efficiency of this building. A new hall would require a huge debt that I do not favor. Shannon J. VandenBerg, born in 1956, lives on Payne Lake Road. He has lived in the township for 25 years and is a graduate of Kentwood High School. His background is in the building industry. He ran for the post of township trustee in 2008 in the Republican primary. In 2012, he filed as a Democrat. He appears on the ballot as the lone Democratic candidate in Yankee Springs Township. VandenBerg has described his community involvement as interactions within the community on a personal and work-related basis, saying he does his best to give the community an inside look at local government. Some say the board is focused primarily on the interests of waterfront property owners. Do you agree? If so, how would you balance competing interests? People do have a tendency to protect their own interests. Balance could be achieved by trying to put yourself in the shoes of those with competing interests. What measures would you take to restore full library services for township residents in the Wayland school district? A township committee would be formed with Wayland and Thornapple Kellogg residents. This committee could discuss restoring privileges for those Yankee Springs residents living within the Wayland school district. Do you support giving up direct local control of planning and zoning in the township? I would support discussion on the topic of redirecting the planning responsibility to the county level. However I do not see this option as giving up local control but rather it would be a potential and significant cost saving for the township’s consideration. Would you support a local millage dedicated to local roads? Regarding a local millage dedicated to local roads, I would support putting the question on a ballot. In that way the decision ultimately would rest with the voters. Do you support additional renovations to the existing township hall or would you prefer to invest in a new structure? The current administration has taken the option of building a new structure at a new site off the table. They have spent nearly $200,000 at the current location. This money was allocated within months of an administrative change. The current administration has taken the issue of investment choice from the incoming administration. Orangeville Township supervisor, treasurer facing challengers Only Supervisor Tom Rook and Treasurer Vicki Ritchie face opposition on the Nov. 6 ballot. Rook is opposed for the post of supervisor by George H. Williston who filed as a Democrat. Ritchie is opposed by Sharon Burgess who filed as an unaffiliated candidate. All other candidates are unopposed, including Clerk Jennifer Goy and trustees Robert Perino and Linda Ribble. Supervisor Republican Tom Rook, born in 1954, lives on Saddler Road. He is running for his third consecutive term as supervisor. He graduated from Martin High School and has a two-year college degree and has been a certified wastewater operator for 25 years. He is a past president and current member of the Michigan Townships Association, Barry County Chapter; he represents the township supervisors’ association and the Michigan Townships Association on the Barry County Solid Waste Oversight Committee. He also participated in building the children’s playground and the veterans memorial. “I enjoy what I’ve done,” he said. “We can do more. We’ve made a lot of progress.” Rook cited food programs, the building of the new town hall and the development of a community center with ball fields, a playground for kids, and the restoration of the mill pond. “Problems are going to keep coming at us,” he said, an allusion to the current fracking issue. “We are working on a road ordinance, so that if it comes to us, we can control the hours of operation and where they go.” Democrat George H. Williston, 57, is a teacher at Martin Public Schools and holds a master’s degree as a trades instructor, which he taught for 10 years at the Michigan Career and Technical Institute at Pine Lake. A 20year resident of the township, he is also a cabinetmaker/designer. Williston’s community activities have primarily been centered on education until neighboring state land was sold for mineral rights, at which time he became active in awareness and action activities. His primary concern is fracking. “What is going to happen if these leases are turned into drilling permits over the next five years?” he asked. “I don’t believe the state or the federal government are going to protect us. We can only do it at the local level.” Williston said he is outraged that the state received $9,700 for the lease of 800 acres of Fish Lake, across from where he lives. He also supports using the public trust argument in a lawsuit against the state. He said he has good leadership skills and that the supervisor should have regular office hours and be accessible. Treasurer Democrat Vicki Ritchie, of 11539 9 Mile Road, born in 1952, is running for a fourth term as treasurer. She is a graduate of the Delton Kellogg Schools. She has lived in Orangeville for 45 years and operates a hair and tanning salon. She also holds a real estate license. Her community activities are centered around her church and Orangeville Days. Among her accomplishments as treasurer was the introduction of the computer to township offices in 2002. “I started doing the tax bills and the tax roll. My husband and I fold them and stuff them in an envelope with the newsletter. In 2002, I saved the township $6,000 which the company was charging us,” she said. “The county pays us $2.50 for every parcel when I do the tax roll. I care about the community and the people. “ Sharon Burgess, born in 1944, lives at 11497 9 Mile Road and has been a township resident for six years. She filed as an independent candidate. She is a high school grad- uate with some college. Burgess is an over-the-road truck driver who worked in the retail industry before moving into transportation management. She offers bookkeeping, payroll, dispatching and computer skills. She has been a volunteer with the Red Cross in Kalamazoo for the past six years. She plans on retiring to devote herself to family and community activities. Castleton Township has no contested races Castleton Township voters will see no contested races when casting their ballots Tuesday. Republican incumbents on the ballot are Supervisor Cheryl Hartwell, Clerk Lorna Wilson, Treasurer Dorothy Semrau and trustees Michael Trahan and Earl Wilson. Only Trahan returned requested biographical and political position information. Trahan, 67, is seeking re-election as Castleton Township trustee, where he has served since 2008. Trahan has a degree in marketing and business from Ferris State University, is past president and board member of Barry County Chamber of Commerce; initiator of Joint Economic Development Commission; past member Hastings School Board Committee of 33 and past board member of P-Ring Credit Union. He has lived in the township for 12 years. What is your level of community involvement. I was involved in the chamber of commerce and JEDC working with local govern- ments to bring new employment to the area. I was active in the local school athletic booster club, serving as past president. Why are you seeking this position? I intend to continue to Mike Trahan represent all the people of Castleton Township by making sure their tax dollars are spent wisely. What skills or experiences do you bring? Current Castleton trustee, past president of Barry County Area Chamber of Commerce, sales manager of largest bus dealership in Michigan, dealing with many governmental agencies. What is the most important issue facing the township? The passage of the EMS millage renewal Proposal 1 and the other [local] millage (proposals 2, 3 and 4.) Voters need to understand these are renewals — not new taxes. What is your position on fracking? I oppose fracking. What steps would you take to improve the local economic climate? Local government needs to be transparent to all the voters and respond to their concerns. Many people have moved from the area. What will reverse this trend? Local government needs to try to retain the people who can contribute to the community by working with other governmental agencies to find companies that want to relocate to the Route 66 corridor and bring new job opportunities. What changes you would like to see? No response. Neon black-out raises nearly $500 for animal shelter The second annual Neon Black-Out “We Care” varsity football game against Grand Rapids Catholic Central Oct. 12 raised $495 for the Barry County Animal Shelter. The stands were neon-i-fied with glow-in-the-dark shirts, neon nails, hair, and face paint. Each year, the Hastings High School cheer teams vote on local causes in the community and nominate four. The high school students then vote by donating spare change, and the top change-getter is the recipient of all money raised during the campaign. Between students voting for a cause with spare change, a penny war that was won by the junior class, the cheer team selling “We Care” shirts and a donation made by State Grounds Coffee House, a check in the amount of $495.49 made payable to Barry County Animal Shelter. Presenting the check to Barry County Commissioner Craig Stolsonburg are (from left) Alyssa Turashoff and Kim Landon. Coach Diane Jager also is on hand for the presentation between the first and second quarters of the game. (Photo by Dan Goggins) �Page 16 — Thursday, November 1, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Prosecution rests, Michael Terpening defense begins by David DeDecker Staff Writer (Note: Some of the language in this article is sexually graphic) As part of its prosecution of Michael Terpening, lawyers from the state attorney general’s office spent most of the criminal sexual conduct trial’s first seven days calling witnesses in the criminal sexual conduct case. On Tuesday, Oct. 30, the prosecution rested and the defense started calling its witnesses. Terpening, 33, is accused of numerous acts of criminal sexual conduct with underage boys at the Bellevue group home he directed. Investigators gathered more than 8,000 pages of discovery information. Terpening has been free on bond since August, pending his trial, which began Monday, Oct. 22. The trial is expected to continue in Barry County Circuit Court, with Judge Amy McDowell, for the next week or more. Assistant AG Angela Povilaitis is the lead prosecutor on the case. Attorney Thomas Schaeffer and co-counsel Joseph Eldred are charged with representation of the defendant Michael Aaron Terpening. In her opening statement, Povilaitis told the 16-person jury that Terpening is responsible for his decisions and actions, nobody else. “He had sufficient authority in every sense of the word,” said Povilaitis. “They knew they had nowhere to turn and he knew that...the kids knew he was in charge. He controlled their money and privileges. He could get them into trouble with their foster care workers or probation officers. He controlled their visits to court and to their friends. He controlled when they would see their families. He knew their personal histories - why they were in the system. He knew their vulnerabilities. His predatory behavior was kept secret for years.” Povilaitis told the jury Terpening had staffed the group home, “The House Next Door” with family members and friends who rely on him for their livelihood. She said they knew they would continue to support him no matter what occurred. “Remember this phrase over the course of the next few weeks,” said Povilaitis. “You are here because of the choices and decisions that Mr. Terpening made. He will focus on the kids and their vulnerabilities and their troubles -- their issues. Make no mistake, it is the People of the State of Michigan versus Michael Terpening. We are here because of the choices and decisions that he made. Keep that focus on him. “His predatory behavior at The House Next Door was kept a secret, quiet, and in the dark for years... he finally assaulted the wrong boy. “Focus on Mr. Terpening. Focus on what he did. He will try to keep the focus on these troubled, vulnerable young men. He will put this on their behavior and their choices and their deci- sions. But you, ladies and gentlemen, are here because of one thing -- because of what this man did and the choices he made when he abused that position of authority and selfishly stole what he wanted from the victims for his own selfish, sexual satisfaction.” The prosecution called several social workers and foster care licensing agents to set a foundation for what Terpening allegedly engineered over the years. When Terpening expressed interest in becoming a foster group home, according to testimony, he was young and single, and running a animal refuge called EARTH Services on a Bellevue farm. One witness said, when Terpening applied for a foster home it was not typical since only one other single male had ever applied to be a foster parent. The witness testified Terpening first asked to start a home for young pregnant girls but was advised against it. A former foster care licenser testified Terpening expressed interest in what types of children he preferred for his group home — boys between 13 and 18 who were sexually active and sexually abused. He looked in the MARE book (Michigan Adoption Resource Exchange) and picked out the boys he was interested in having in his home, which according to the witness, was not typical either. She said Terpening asked for boys that were the hardest to place. He asked for a boy named Frank, who was not placed with him. He asked for a boy prone to public sex displays, who was not placed with him. He asked for a boy who was a registered sex offender , and that boy was not placed with Terpening. The first alleged victim in the trial had been in 10 places before arriving at the House Next Door program. He testified to being 15 years of age at the time. “Mike was the top dog,” he said. “The boss. The supervisor.” He told the court that, in May 2011, Terpening took him to one of his vacant houses and said if the boy would show him his penis he would buy him a pack of cigars. The witness said the defendant took him to a chicken coop, backed him against the wall and gave him oral sex, then masturbated while talking sexually to the boy. According to the witness, they then got into Terpening’s truck and went to a party store where he bought Swisher Sweets and made him swear “on his sister’s life” not to tell anyone. One of the farm hands, who was part of a rehab program, testified that he was supposed to meet Terpening at the newly built chicken coop. He told the court that, when he arrived, Terpening and the boy were already there. He said later Terpening asked him to change his story so Terpening and the boy arrived after he did at the chicken coop. After police investigated the chicken coop, Terpening asked him to clean the “Kennel House’s” basement floor and walls with bleach. On another occasion, according to the wit- Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 For Sale Automotive Estate Sale 100% WOOD HEAT, no worries. Keep your family safe and warm with an OUTDOOR WOOD FURNACE from Central Boiler. D-2 Outdoor Wood Boilers. (616)877-4081. 1999 FORD WINDSTAR: auto, all power, 3 seater, 158k miles. Runs good, $1,100, (269)795-0208. ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 FREE HEATCLASSIC Outdoor Wood Furnace from Central Boiler. Call SOS your “Stocking Dealer” Dutton, MI (616)554-8669 or (616)915-5061. GOLF CAR end of the year clearance sale, 1-800-3219616. For Rent OFFICE FOR RENT: Hastings 135 square foot office, furnished, in upscale office building near the Courthouse, $250.00 plus share of utilities (269)945-9585. WALL LAKE, DELTON: 2 bedroom apartment. References & deposit. No pets, 269-623-8218. Business Services BARRY MITCHELL CONSTRUCTION. NEW CONSTRUCTION AND REMODELING. No job is to big or to small. Indoor and outdoor, whatever you need I can help. Local, licensed and insured. Bobcat service available. Call (269)760-0808 for free estimates. In Memoriam IN MEMORY OF Philip Armstrong We thought of you today but that was nothing new; we thought about you yesterday and the day before that too. We think of you in silence we often speak your name; all we have are memories and your pictures in some frames. Your memory is our keepsake with which we’ll never part; God has you in his keeping but we have you in our hearts. Sadly missed by Pauline and family. PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 Help Wanted DRIVERS: CDL-A DEDICATED Lanes Company Drivers & Owner Operators. Team & Singles. $1,000 SignOn Bonus for 0/0. Fuel Discount. Safety Bonus Program. Excellent Fuel Surcharge. Open Board Drivers40CPM. 6mos verifiable exp. 800-599-0087. Community Notices DO YOU NEED your leaves raked? Hastings Y-12 FC Soccer Club will rake leaves for donations on Saturday, November 3rd. Call Bob 616-717-1725 Recreation WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are interested in leasing acreage for this years deer season. Call (269)795-3049 National Ads THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is deceptive, fraudulent or might otherwise violate law or accepted standards of taste. However, this publication does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the quality of goods or services advertised. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made in any advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you ask for money in advance of delivery of goods or services advertised. ness, Terpening took the boy into the kitchen of one his vacant houses and pursued the boy around the table and into the pantry. Terpening allegedly pulled down the boys shorts and gave him oral sex, and began masturbating, then he tried to turn the boy around. The witness said Terpening ejaculated into his hand and wiped his hand off with a plastic grocery bag. The grocery bag was found in the pantry by police and the DNA matched the defendant’s. Defense asked the witness, on cross examination, if he had ever looked in the pantry window and saw Terpening and his wife having sex. Defense was raising the doubt that a marital sex act may be the reason for the DNA sample. The witness said he was afraid Terpening would send him to a more secure group home and get him into trouble with his probation officer for previously fighting with another boy. He then told his Bellevue High School counselor about the two incidents just days after they occurred. In another line of questioning, the witness said Terpening would get boys to fight each other. The defendant allegedly asked the witness to beat up three other boys. The boy also told the court Terpening would take them to psychiatrists and ask for their medications to be changed. Alleged victim number two said he came to The House Next Door when he was 11 or 12 years old and is now 17 years old. He is living outside of Michigan. The witness was the first resident at THND and was very upset over the loss of his mother. He told the jury Terpening would come into his bedroom, sit on his bed, and start rubbing his leg from knee to within inches of his genitals. The witness testified he told Terpening to stop. “It was inappropriate and unprofessional,” he said. “The way he was rubbing was for a sexual purpose.” Judge McDowell asked him how many times this happened. He told the judge it was two or three different times. The witness then told the jury that, when he was missing his mother, he would scream while in his room. He said once when he was screaming, and only screaming, Terpening and three other men came in and taped him to the floor. The farm hand testified about an incident that happened in a break room on the farm. Povilaitis asked him about the break room when some of the workers were goofing around and telling jokes. He said there were several guys in the room and they were telling dirty jokes and rough housing. When one of the workers was sitting on the couch Terpening came over and grabbed his crotch. According to the farm hand everyone in the room was shocked and Terpening left the room. “I packed my bags and ran from Bellevue, Michigan as fast as I could,” said the farm hand. When asked by Schaeffer if he had ever said Terpening was rich and there was a lot of money to be made, the witness replied “No.” The next witness for the prosecution was a 22-year-old man who had spent some time on Terpening’s mother’s farm near Battle Creek. He told the court “sexual stuff” had happened a couple of times between the defendant and himself. He had previously been in 13 homes before being adopted. It happened for the first time when the defendant was ten. He was taking care of animals in the barn and Terpening came into the barn and allegedly raped him. “I thought it was my fault,” said the witness. “I didn’t think anyone would believe me and I suppressed the thoughts for a long time.” It happened a second time. Then he and his twin brother were sent away because they were accused of molesting their sister. He testified that he thinks Terpening made the accusation. He told the court he hadn’t seen Terpening since that time. Defense asked the witness about his memory and said the witness had several family members who were registered sex offenders. The prosecution asked how sure he was the acts were committed by Terpening in the barn. He told the court he was 100 percent sure. Accuser number three has been in 47 homes including THND, at which time he was 17 years old. He said Terpening was the “Big Cheese” and there were consequences for not doing what Terpening wanted. The witness admitted their relationship changed one day. Terpening was driving him to a court date and they had to spend four hours in the car each way. He told the court he is openly gay and thought the feeling was mutual with the defendant. He said during the ride there was flirtation and sexual language. According to the witness, while driving Terpening unbuttoned his own pants and pulled out his penis, then started rubbing the witness’ inner thigh. The witness said he gave Terpening oral sex while the defendant was driving. He told the jury Terpening told him not to say anything, but that he did not feel threatened. The witness said there were three more sex acts between he and Terpening including the fondling of genitals through his pants. In the “Kennel House” the two gave each other oral sex and masturbated. The witness said when they left there was semen on the basement floor. He told one of the staff about the incident but the woman did not believe him. The witness told the jury he did not want Terpening to get in trouble. He had seven or eight verbal recantations of his accusations against Terpening -- including one to Barry County Commissioner Jeff VanNortwick. The witness also appeared in three video segments talking about the incidents and the upcoming trial on Channel 3 News Dec. 27, 2011; on YouTube Jan. 4, 2012; and on a public access talk show with Judith Faye. “I was hoping it was all going to go away,” he said. “I have lost more than I have gained.” One of Terpening’s cousins took the witness stand for the prosecution. “He was like a brother,” she said. “ We did everything together.” The woman is 28 years old now and testified that, when she was 12 years old and in 6th grade, Terpening sexually fondled her when she was in the barn taking care of the horses. She said he came up behind her and put his hand under her bra and then put his hand on her pubic area beneath her underwear. Crying she said, “I didn’t want Michael to get into trouble.” At the time, she told her mom who said she would talk to Terpening’s father. According to the witness, no one in the family believed her. She said the family started to treat her terribly and kids on the bus started calling her a whore. The woman testified that Terpening’s sister recently gave her a letter to sign that said Terpening did not sexually abuse her and did not talk to the police about it in 1997. She said she didn’t read it, but just signed it. She said she was under pressure from the family to sign the letter on the spot. “I felt if I didn’t sign the letter I would be reliving life as I did when I was 12,” she said. Yet another witness, a 21-year-old worker on the farm, testified that Terpening took him to one of his vacant houses and said the man could live there if he “gave him head.” He told the court he stopped Terpening from touching him, but Terpening kept asking him for oral sex and saying he could then live in the house. The man did not show in court to testify on Friday, Oct. 26 because he didn’t want to talk about what happened. He said Terpening gave him a new life and a job, and he really didn’t want to testify. The prosecution wrapped up with their witnesses Tuesday morning, Oct. 30, and the defense started presenting its case. In his opening statement Oct. 22, lead defense attorney Schaeffer told the jury the prosecution would like them to believe only one side of the story. “She says focus on what we are accusing the defendant of doing, and disregard other evidence you are going to hear,” said Schaeffer. Schaeffer explained there are five alleged accusers and two of those accusers are main witnesses for the prosecution. He told the jury the two conspired to make accusations against Terpening, with a motivation to get out of the group home and to go elsewhere. He said there will be witnesses who overheard the two making plans to accuse Terpening of improper behavior. The second motivation for the accusations, said Schaeffer, was the possibility of making money. “These are felons of offenses of dishonesty and larceny,” said Schaeffer. “You will hear that they said ‘We’ve got a chance to make some money. Michael Terpening is loaded and has all this property. This is an opportunity for us to make some money.’” Schaeffer said Michael Terpening is a victim of system manipulation and that he is not a pedophile or a predator as accused. “The government wants you to believe the defendant has such a long-seated perverted problem, that he surrounds himself with damaged baggage. I submit, you will hear testimony to the contrary.” The defense is presently calling its witnesses to the stand and, after closing arguments, the 16person jury will be randomly reduced to 12 members. They will then go into deliberations and decide the fate of Michael Terpening. If found guilty on all or some of the charges, Terpening will face life in prison. POLICE BEAT Stray dog results in ticket for owner Hastings Police were dispatched Oct. 25 to a home on East Grant Street where a man was cornered by a stray dog growling and barking at him. When Hastings Police arrived, they were able to distract the dog long enough for the homeowner get to safety. The dog was apprehended with help from Barry County Animal Control. The owner of the dog was located and issued a citation for having a loose dog. Vehicle break-ins are increasing Hastings Police responded to two more vehicle break-ins Oct. 28. Officers responded to a residence on West Bond Street where a homeowner discovered that the trunk of his vehicle had been entered and his hunting bow and accessories stolen. He said his vehicle had been left unlocked and parked in his driveway. Police also responded to a theft of a wallet from a vehicle parked downtown. Pry marks were discovered on the driver’s door where the vehicle had been entered. Couple’s troubles get worse with daylight Deputies were called to a Arlington Street residence in Middleville the morning of Oct. 28 after an off-duty deputy reported a woman running across a gas station parking lot bleeding from the mouth and yelling for help. When deputies spoke with the 31-yearold Middleville resident, she said she was at the bar downtown and got drunk. She also said she was wanted on some warrants. She said when she got home her husband kicked her in the face and loosened her front teeth. When the husband was contacted, he told deputies the woman had come home after closing time and started scratching him on the face and neck and poking him in the eyes. He said she bit him and twisted his ear. That’s when he grabbed their son and locked himself and the boy in the bathroom, telling the woman he was going to call the police. He told deputies that is when his wife started punching herself in the face and yelling “Look what you have done to me.” The woman’s portable breath test registered .14 percent, and the husband’s registered .094 percent. The man was placed under arrest for an outstanding warrant. The wife was placed under arrest for domestic violence and four outstanding warrants. The case is open pending review. Roads turn slippery with wintery mix Hastings Police responded to an accident on South Hanover at South Street Oct. 30. Preliminary investigation revealed that a Rockford woman heading south crossed into the northbound travel lanes, left the roadway and hit a utility pole on the east side of the highway. The Hastings Fire Department and Lansing Mercy Ambulance service responded to the accident and extricate the 21-yearold driver from the vehicle. Speed and weather conditions contributed to the accident. The woman was flown to Spectrum hospital by Aero Med with internal injuries. Overnight guest leaves with hands full A man called Barry County Deputies Oct. 28 to report a friend had spent the night at his house and left after stealing money and two shirts. The Bellevue homeowner told deputies the 17-year-old Otsego girl spent the evening with him and when he woke up, $200 in cash was missing from his wallet. The girl was also gone. When she was contacted by deputies she said her boyfriend had picked her up while the man slept. She denied taking the money and the clothing. The case has been turned over to the prosecutor. Man attacked when picking up his children Barry County Sheriff’ deputies were called to a Gerke Drive, Hastings, residence on a domestic violence complaint Oct. 27. When deputies arrived, a 24-year-old woman was standing next to the garage. She told deputies the man inside had assaulted her. The man had come to the house to pick up his two kids from her and an argument started. He said she started throwing things at him and asking him to buy her booze. She then allegedly slapped him several times in the face. Deputies reported the man’s face was red in a manner consistent with being slapped. She registered a .079 percent blood alcohol level and she was arrested for domestic assault. The case is pending review by the prosecutor. Employee pockets extra pay and tools A Delton contractor told deputies Oct. 22 that an employee had collected $1,900 for a job and only turned in $1,300. He told deputies the same employee had pocketed $600 from another contract in September. The owner said he only found out about the discrepancy when the homeowner called with an issue and said how much money he had given the 28-year-old employee. He said the employee also was under investigation for stealing tools from his business. Deputies had the owner call the employee and arrange pick-up of the man’s final paycheck. Deputies had warrants to be served on the suspect, and he was arrested. The case has been turned over to the prosecutor. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 1, 2012 — Page 17 Assyria candidates run unopposed Assyria Township Assyria Township officials will retain their current seats after Tuesday’s election. Republicans, Supervisor Mike Timmons, Treasurer Elizabeth Miller and trustees James Miller and Eugene Waterbury are running unopposed. Three candidates returned requested biographical data and political position information, which follows. Supervisor Mike Timmons, 71, is the incumbent for the position of supervisor in Assyria Township where he has served since 2004. Timmons has a bachelor’s degree in public administration and has lived in the township 28 years. Why are you seeking re-election? I have the time to give, I enjoy helping people and there is some challenge to the job ... plus there are a couple of long-haul projects I want to finish. What skills or experiences can you offer that will be useful to this position? U.S. Navy, master chief boatswain mate. Retired as a chief warrant officer, 20 years as a U.S. Department of Defense analyst, Scout and 4-H leader; deputy in Ottawa County, Red Cross volunteer, band booster, animal rescue and foster, certified Methodist lay speaker , EMMAUS community since 1994. What is the most important issue facing the township? Roads and cemeteries. The county owns the roads, but without township assistance, there is increased potential for stranding of buses, emergency and personal vehicles. Balancing funds over the long haul is challenging. Cemetery administration; try to develop a plan for whoever has this job 50plus years down the road. What is you position on fracking? One well requires three to five million gallons of water drawn from lakes, streams, rivers and aquifers. Chemicals, including hydrochloric acid, biocides, emulsifiers and carcinogens, are pumped into the sub-aquifer rock. Backflow is released into the area. The potential risk outweighs the benefits of cheaper gas. Clerk Deborah Massimino, 48, is uncontested for the position of clerk, which she has held since 1998. Massimino has lived in the area for 21 years and has a master’s degree in public administration. She volunteers at the Barry County Commission on Aging. Why are you seeking this position? No answer provided. What skills or experiences can you offer that will be useful to this position? No answer provided. What is the most important issue facing the township? Increased cost to maintain roads and decrease of state shared revenue. What is your position on hydraulic fracturing (fracking)? No answer provided. What steps does local government need to Deborah Massimino Mike Timmons take to improve the local economic climate? No answer provided. Many people have moved from the area. What ideas do you have to reverse this trend? No answer provided. What changes would you like to see? No answer provided. Trustee James Miller, born in 1946, lives on M-66 in Nashville. He has served two terms as Assyria Township trustee. Miller went to the Michigan State Agricultural College and has lived in Assyria for 66 years. He is active in church, township, neighborhood and is self-proclaimed local historian. Why are you seeking this position? Assyria has had a very conservative board for many years. I wish to continue. What skills or experiences can you offer that will be useful to this position? No answer provided. What is the most important issue facing the town- ship? Funding fire equipment, keeping our roads in good condition. Keeping land available for cemeteries. What is you position on fracking? Don’t know enough about it. What steps does local government need to take to improve the local economic climate? Keep spending under control. Many people have moved from the area. What ideas do you have to reverse this trend? No answer provided. Lions’ Rushford earns her third trip to the State Finals Jessica Rushford will hope the third time is the charm. The Maple Valley senior is making her third appearance in the Division 3 State Finals this Saturday at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn after a ninth-place finish at her team’s regional meet in Jackson last Saturday. Rushford finished her regional race at Sharp Park in 20 minutes 13.1 seconds. She was 101st at the state finals as a sophomore, and moved up to 59th last year. The top 30 earn medals and all-state honors. The top 15 runners and top three teams from regional races around the state last weekend qualified for the state finals. Jackson Lumen Christi took the girls’ Division 3 Regional championship in Jackson, finishing with just 37 points. Hanover-Horton was second with 46, followed by Hillsdale 99, Napoleon 126, Quincy 131, Olivet 152, Leslie 161, Maple Valley 234, Bronson 256 and Union City 264. Behind Rushford for the Lion ladies’ team, Emma McGlocklin was 57th in 23:31.9, McKayla Lamance 59th in 23:56.1, Elizabeth Wetzel 70th in 26:14.2 and Lynzie Trumble 71st in 26:21.8. Hanover-Horton’s Megan Hubbard was the individual champion in 18:49.0. Hillsdale’s Madeline Richards was a ways back in second place, finishing with a time of 19:07.9. Jackson Lumen Christi had five runners among the top 13, led by Aubrey Penn’s thirdplace time of 19:19.7. Her Titan teammate Caitlin Clark was fourth in 19:23.8. Maple Valley’s boys were eighth, just like the girls, but with far fewer points. Lumen Christi won the boys’ title too, with 38 points, followed by Hanover-Horton 119, Napoleon 120, Jonesville 127, Quincy 131, Leslie 142, Bronson 179, Maple Valley 179, Hillsdale 213, Michigan Center 217, Union City 262, East Jackson 345 and Olivet 369. Andrew Brighton led the Lion boys, placing 23rd in 17:51.0. Austin Rood was 29th in 18:06.9, Micah Bromley 35th in 18:19.5, Kyle Brumm 43rd in 18:34.4 and Sam Benedict 49th in 18:57.8. Hanover-Horton’s Bryce Stroede was the individual champion in 16:17.3. Like Hubbard in the girls’ race, Stroede had a good lead at the end. Hillsdale’s Zach Hardway was second in 16:38.3, edging Lumen Christi’s Karl Berkemeier at the line. Berkemeier finished in 16:38.9. Berkemeier’s teammate Charlie Ludlow was fourth in 16:47.4. Lumen Christi had four in the top ten and five in the top 14 in the boys’ race. Hastings Police were dispatched Friday, Oct. 26, to the Hastings Post Office regarding a political protest being conducted on the sidewalk by a couple identifying themselves as Livonia residents and members of the LaRouche party. Alan Egre, 29, and Ema Reuter, 26, told the Banner that they have been traveling nationwide this political season to use party founder Lyndon LaRouche’s economic and social positions as a protest against the administra- The dirt on Sandy by Sandra Ponsetto Sunday, while Hurricane Sandy was threatening to tear up the Eastern Seaboard, leaving a wake of destruction, this Sandy wasn’t leaving much of a wake, chugging my way through Pennock Health Service’s new fundraiser for the Barry County United Way, the Dirty Dozen — a mini-mud run, featuring 12 obstacles. But, that which doesn’t kill us leaves us with some good stories to tell. “Well, I think this sounds like we need a first-hand account,” said Banner and Reminder editor Doug Vanderlaan, grinning. It was Monday before last, and I had just volunteered to write the promotional story on the mud run for the Oct. 27 Reminder. “You know I can’t run,” I said. It’s true; I can’t run. “It’s more than just running — you get to climb stuff. You to crawl in the mud,” countered Doug, grinning wider. “You can crawl through mud.” I couldn’t argue with that. As a mom, I’ve had a lot of experience with crawling and with various sticky substances, mud being far from the worst. “Okay,” I said. “If Fred puts up the entry fee, I’ll do it and write a column about it.” “You will?” asked Doug, obviously surprised that I had actually taken the bait. “Sure. Why not?” I said. “I can’t really run, and it won’t be pretty; but I’ll do it. All I have to do is finish it. They say the things you regret the most aren’t the things you do, but the things that you don’t.” It sounded good when I said I said it; but, I have to admit that over the next few days, I had more than a few moments of trepidation. When I told Doug I couldn’t run, I meant it, literally. An auto accident when I was 19 resulted in broken ankle that effectively ended my running days. The most vigorous exercise I’ve had in recent years was chasing an 8-year old boy around the stage at DeVos Performance Hall during Opera Grand Rapids’ production of “La Boheme,” in May. Nor was I under the illusion that I could transform myself from a spud to stud in just six days, especially since these last two weeks I have spent most of my evenings at the opera company rehearsing for the upcoming production of “Samson and Delilah” where, as a supernumerary, I spend most of my time waiting in the wings for a few minutes of stage time when I would mime such vigorous activities as wailing, moaning and pleading as a Hebrew slave and brushing Delilah’s hair, lighting a torch at the altar and carrying the sacrificial knife to the altar of Dagon as a Philistine priestess. It’s not exactly strenuous stuff. The hardest thing I have to do in this production is getting off the floor after kneeling for 10 minutes. The fact that I find getting off the floor difficult these days should have been a warning; but, I’ve never been one to pay much attention to warnings. As I stood shivering in the cold at the starting line Sunday at the top of an 80-foot homemade slip-n-slide ending in a murky pool of icy-looking water and looked out over the rest of the course — measuring a mile and studded with fences, head-high hay bales, tires and various other obstacles to crawl over, under and through — it suddenly looked a lot longer than it had from the road when I drove by earlier in the week. I hate to admit it, but Doug was right; I can crawl through mud. In fact, that was probably one of the easiest parts of the course for me. The plastic-covered hay bales? Not so much. After several attempts to get over the first of two, my co-worker Julie Makarewicz who, with my husband and youngest daughter, followed me around the course to document every mud-soaked minute, offered to get me a ladder. Although early in the course, at that point I was beginning to think that a crane and a winch was about the only thing that was going to get me over the bale. Still, after a few more attempts, I managed to clamber to the top of both bales, sliding, or rather oozing, over the second like a slug on a Coke bottle. I was huffing, puffing and wheezing, but I also smiling through the whole course. I enjoyed the good-natured raillery from Julie and my family and the humor and hearty encouragement from all the volunteers along the course. Besides the specter of my daughter posting the entire thing on YouTube hash- tagged, “Mom’s Epic Fail,” the jokes and encouragement were what kept me plugging along, even as I was tempted to make a break for my car and drive home for a nice steaming mug of hot chocolate liberally spiked with Bailey’s. I didn’t get an official time because I switched from the 23rd wave, which was slated to start at 4:20 that afternoon, to the second because I had to get to cleaned up and get to opera rehearsal by 6:30 p.m. But, my daughter, who video taped every second said it took me exactly 20 minutes and 45 seconds. Obviously, it wasn’t the fastest time posted Sunday afternoon, but I was satisfied. I met my goal — which was to finish and not get lapped by anyone in the third, or any subsequent, wave. Later that night as I sat warm and dry in the darkness of the wings at DeVos hall waiting for my cue, I thought with satisfaction of another challenge met — even if it is just giving up my couch-potato ways for an afternoon. I also remembered that it was almost 10 years ago to the day that I, a basic introvert and theater neophyte, auditioned to become a super at the opera and never looked back. You never know what will happen when you try something new. I talked to mud run organizer Jon Anderson Tuesday morning, and he said t approximately 360 people of all ages participated in the inaugural event and there are plans to hold the event again next year. Will I do it again? You bet. I was cold. I was wet. I was muddy and I was wheezing; but I was also having fun and it was all for a good cause. And, as I said earlier, what doesn’t kill you makes for a good story, and I love to tell stories. LHS girls knock off DeWitt for CAAC Gold Cup victory Politics comes to Hastings on Friday with a demonstration conducted by members of the LaRouche movement outside the Hastings Post Office. Political protest blocks sidewalks outside Hastings Post Office Hastings Banner reporter Sandra Ponsetto slithers over an obstacle on the Dirty Dozen course Sunday afternoon. (Photo by Julie Makarewicz) Hastings Assistant Police Chief Jeff Pratt (left) explains to political protesters Alan Egre (left) and Ema Reuter that, because their demonstration is obstructing the sidewalk outside the Hastings Post Office, they will have to move. tion of President Barack Obama. LaRouche, of New Hampshire, is best known as a longtime political activitist who has run for president eight times and has espoused warnings of financial crisis and conspiracy theories. Hastings police received reports that Egre and Reuter were allegedly harassing customers as they were walking in and out of the post office. When police arrived and spoke with the couple, they noticed a table that had been set up on the sidewalk and also a large standing sign. Officers informed the protestors they would have to remove the table and signs from the sidewalk. They did so without incident and left the area. Hastings Police Department reminds the public that they do have the right to a peaceful demonstration, however, city ordinance prohibits obstruction of any part of sidewalks. The Vikings swept through the best volleyball teams in the Lansing Area without dropping a single set. Lakewood’s varsity volleyball team won the second annual CAAC Gold Cup championship by scoring a 25-23, 25-13, 25-14 victory at DeWitt Tuesday. “The team adapted to a DeWitt team with a different line-up than what we faced (earlier in the season). The girls made the changes to finish them off in the last two sets,” said Lakewood head coach Kellie Rowland. Emily Kutch led the Vikings with 23 kills, 15 digs, seven service points and an ace. Olivia Davis had ten kills, six blocks, eight digs and three aces. Beth Tingley was the Viking leader in digs with 19, and added two kills. Viking setter Brooke Wieland had 37 assists, as well as five kills and two blocks. Lakewood also had Jordan Kietzman add nine digs, nine service points and three aces. Karly Morris chipped in six digs. Rowland said that Charlie Smith was the team’s unsung hero f the night, “doing so many good things that allowed others to play even better.” Smith finished with three digs, three assists and two kills. The Viking coach added that there was a great atmosphere, with the Lakewood student body, parents and supporters there to cheer on the team. “It is their commitment of support and energy that encourages us to play with Viking pride,” Rowland said. Lakewood opened play in the Class B state tournament by topping Hastings 3-0 in a district opener at Wayland Union High School Tuesday. The Vikings will face the host Wildcats in the district semifinal tonight at 5 p.m. The winner of that contest advances to the district final, which will be played Saturday at 10 a.m. �Page 18 — Thursday, November 1, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Thornapple Kellogg has county’s best XC teams by Brett Bremer Sports Editor There were gloves, mittens, sweatshirts, Under Armour, head bands, stocking caps ... Hastings’ Ariel Moore ran the race with a hat that looked like a cross between a polar bear and a sock monkey on her head. Delton Kellogg varsity cross country coach Dale Grimes joked with one of his girls after the race that she looked like she was wearing one of those puffy sumo suits because of the layers of clothing underneath her uniform. It was cold. It was windy. And for many of the runners it was just about fun and finishing off the 2012 cross country season at the Barry County Invitational which was hosted and won by Thornapple Kellogg Monday afternoon. The Trojan boys’ and girls’ teams won the county’s team titles. Hastings’ junior Trista Straube looked like she had a little more than fun on her mind as she pulled away from Thornapple Kellogg’s Melissa Winchester over the final few hundred meters to win the girls’ individual championship. She finished in 20 minutes 8.3 seconds, while Winchester was second in 20:20.4. Winchester and the Thornapple Kellogg girls will be running at the Division 2 State Finals in Brooklyn Saturday, but for Straube this was the last race of her season after placing 16th at their Division 2 Regional, which was hosted by Carson City-Crystal Saturday. The top 15 there earned spots in the state finals, as well as the top three teams. The top seven finishers earned All-Barry County First Team honors Monday, while the second seven finishers earned honorable mention All-Barry County. Straube and Winchester were the first two of five girls to finish in under 21 minutes on the winding course between the Thornapple Kellogg High School and Middle School. Maple Valley’s Jessica Rushford, a state qualifier in Division 3, was third in 20:38.8, while TK had Casey Lawson fourth in 20:48.3 and Olivia Lamberg fifth in 20:58.1. Moore broke up a big Trojan pack, placing sixth in 21:27.7. TK’s Janie Noah earned the final first team all-county spot, placing seventh in 21:34.7. She had teammates finish eighth, ninth and tenth behind her. Shelbi Shepherd was eighth in 21:47.9, Taylor Ward ninth in 22:12.4 and Bryn Beyer tenth in 22:16.3. The final four all-county honorable mention award winners were Delton Kellogg’s The Thornapple Kellogg boys’ and girls’ cross country teams celebrate their 2012 Barry County Invitational championships together after scoring wins Monday in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) and Anna Zuver 46th in 29:40. The county’s only individual state qualifier in Division 2, David Walter from Thornapple Kellogg, won the boys’ race in 18:15.0 - leading throughout the entire race. Hastings had Ronnie Collins second in 18:18.6, Chance Miller third in 18:28.8 and Jake Miller fifth in 18:51.0, but couldn’t get the fourth and fifth scores it need to top the Trojans. TK’s boys finished with 39 points. Hastings was second with 42, followed by Maple Valley 61, Delton Kellogg 98 and Lakewood 108. Delton Kellogg’s Jarryd Calhoun, an individual state qualifier in Division 3, broke up the Saxons’ top pack with his fourth-place time of 18:41.8. Delton Kellogg’s Jarryd Calhoun races to the finish line during the Barry County Meet Monday afternoon in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Andrew Brighton who was 18th in 19:59. Behind the two seniors, Calhoun and Haas, for Delton were Jacob Morgan 26th in 21:13, Dylan Kelley 27th in 21:29 and Alex Stevens 28th in 21:38. Lakewood had Nolan Stoepker finish 20th in 20:30, Tyler McDiarmid 21st in 20:31, Traviss Wilkerson 22nd in 20:33 and Ben Wakely 35th in 22:49. TK girls are Brooklyn bound The Saxons’ Jacob Pratt nears the finish line at the end of the Barry County Invitational in Middleville Monday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The Saxons’ Rachel Rimer races along at the start of the second mile during the Barry County Invitational Monday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The rest of the first team all-county performers were from Maple Valley. Austin Rood was sixth in 18:51.6 and Micah Bromley seventh in 18:56.8. Thornapple Kellogg had the first four honorable mention all-county performers, with Conor Leach eighth in 19:02.9, Joe Gaikema ninth in 19:04.9, Austin LaVire tenth in 19:10.6 and Daniel Vannette 11th in 19:11.2. Lakewood’s Daniel Sauers was 12th in 19:12.0, Delton Kellogg’s Zach Haas 13th in 19:14.5 and Maple Valley’s Sam Benedict 14th in 19:19.0. Behind the top three for Hastings, Jacob Pratt was 15th in 19:25 and Garrett Bowers 17th in 19:39. Just missing awards for the Lions were Kyle Brumm who was 16th in 19:33 and Christi Boze who was 11th in 22:20.8, Hastings’ Rachel Rimer who was 12th in 22:21.2, Thornapple Kellogg’s Morgan McNutt who was 13th in 22:37.7 and Hastings’ Maria Palacio who was 14th in 22:54.7. McNutt was honorable mention all-county, but didn’t score for her team. TK’s girls finished with 26 points. Hastings was second with 46, followed by Delton Kellogg 89, Maple Valley 89 and Lakewood NTS. Hastings’ fifth scorer was Olivia Rose, who was 16th in 23:13. Behind Boze for Delton, which is going to the state finals in Division 3 as a team, Sammi Cleary was 18th in 23:43, Megan Grimes 23rd in 24:37, Marcie Stevens 32nd in 25:45 and Liz Jackson 37th in 26:53. Maple Valley had Emma McGlocklin 22nd in 24:20, McKayla Lamance 24th in 24:39, Lynzie Trumble 35th in 26:31 and Ivy Braden 42nd in 28:04. Lakewood had just four runners, with Olivia Loutham leading the way with her 26th-place time of 24:54. Brooke Stahl was 31st in 25:09, Holly Leonard 44th in 28:34 Thornapple Kellogg’s Melissa Winchester (front from left) and Olivia Lamberg and Delton Kellogg’s Christi Boze and Megan Grimes work to stay in front of the pack at the start of the Barry County Invitational Monday in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The Trojans were hoping to be third in the days and weeks leading up to Saturday’s Division 2 Regional Meet hosted by Carson City-Crystal at the Fish Creek Sportsman’s Club. The top three teams from regionals across the state last weekend earned spots in this coming Saturday’s State Finals, at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn. “We were thinking it’s going to be tough, but we’re going to go for it,” said Thornapple Kellogg varsity girls’ cross country coach Tammy Benjamin. She changed her mind right before the race. “I got up Saturday and I said ‘no, we’re just going to go for it,’” she said. “We are not worrying about third, we are going to go.” And go the Trojans did, fast enough to earn a runner-up finish and a spot in the Division 2 State Finals. They beat two teams, Forest Hills Northern and DeWitt, who were ranked among the top ten teams in the state in their division. “I was never so happy to be second in my entire life,” Benjamin said. Forest Hills Eastern took the day’s championship, scoring just 50 points thanks in part to senior Clara Cullen who was the day’s individual champion with a time of 18 minutes 21.9 seconds. Thornapple Kellogg won the tight race for third with 90 points. Forest Hills Northern Thornapple Kellogg’s Casey Lawson races towards the finish line at the end of Saturday’s Division 2 Regional Meet hosted by Carson City-Crystal. (Photo by Julie Makarewicz) Thornapple Kellogg’s Conor Leach, (front from left) Danielle Vanette, and David Walter break out of the chute at the start of Saturday’s Division 2 Regional Meet hosted by Carson City-Crystal. (Photo by Julie Makarewicz) was third with 95 points, while DeWitt finished with 100 points. DeWitt’s top two runners will get to go to the finals, thanks to their top 15 individual finishes. While the DeWitt team just missed a spot in the state finals, so too did Hastings junior Trista Straube. An individual qualifier a year ago, Straube was one spot short just like the Panthers, finishing 16th in 19:27.5. Thornapple Kellogg’s Casey Lawson filled the final spot for individual qualifiers, finishing 15th in 19:22.2 Melissa Winchester led the Trojans in fourth place with a time of 18:59.3. TK also had Olivia Lamberg 20th in 19:41.1, Janie Noah 23rd in 20:01.1 and Shelbi Shepherd 26th in 20:23.7. “Those top five ran their fastest times of the year,” Benjamin said. “They ran the best race of the year. They were passing kids. They ran smart races.” “I can pinpoint three, four different kids that passed people all at the end. Third we looked good, but second they ran well. I was very proud of them and I’ve seen a lot. We’ve had a lot of success, but this is a team that really deserved to go and it was just cool to see them make it out of a region that was that strong.” St. Johns was fifth in the team standings with 136 points, followed by Ionia 153, Belding 183, Mt. Pleasant 199, Hastings 253, Alma 262, Comstock Park 264, Wayland 335, Midland Bullock Creek 343 and Lakewood 452. Behind Straube for Hastings, Ariel Moore was 36th in 20:41.0, Rachel Rimer 56th in 21:30.7, Maria Palacio 71st in 22:19.0 and Olivia Rose 74th in 22:40.8. Lakewood had Olivia Louthan 86th in 24:12.4, Lindsey Tooker 88th in 24:16.1, Mycah Ridder 91st in 24:42.1, Anja Gimse 92nd in 24:42.3 and Brooke Stahl 95th in 25:09.1. Thornapple Kellogg junior David Walter was in Straube’s place a year ago, although he has never run in the state finals before. He will now after moving up from a 16th-place regional finish to a 15th-place regional finish this season. He finished the race in 16:51.9, coming in a few seconds ahead of the 16th place runner. He’ll be the only boy running in the Division 2 State Finals from the area. Forest Hills Northern took the regional title with 77 points. Ionia was second with 78, followed by St. Johns 110, Forest Hills Eastern 112, Alma 121, Belding 129, DeWitt 176, Midland Bullock Creek 191, Thornapple Kellogg 241, Wayland 253, Mt. Pleasant 257, Hastings 287, Lakewood 420 and Comstock Park 433. Behind Walter for TK, Austin Lavire was 41st in 17:46.1, Daniel Vannette 48th in 18:00.3, Conor Leach 66th in 18:40.9 and Joe Gaikema 71st in 18:48.0. Hastings was led by Chance Miller’s 39th-place time of 17:43.0. Ronnie Collins was 46th in 17:55.8, Jake Miller 61st in 18:25.6, Jacob Pratt 67th in 18:45.4 and Brandon Gray 74th in 18:58.8. Daniel Sauers led Lakewood, finishing a little behind Gray. He was 77th in 19:10.4. The Vikings also had Traviss Wilkerson 81st in 19:32.8, Tyler McDiarmid 85th in 19:54.2, Ben Wakely 86th in 19:59.9 and Nolan Stoepker 91st in 20:39.8. Forest Hills Eastern’s Mowgli Crosby won the individual regional title in 15:59.9. Ionia had the next two finishers, with Brice Brown second in 16:09.6 and Brandon Winter third in 16:09.8. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 1, 2012 — Page 19 Delton Kellogg girls qualify for State Finals once again by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Delton Kellogg girls extended their streak. The Panther varsity girls’ cross country team will take part in the Division 3 State Finals at Michigan International Speedway (MIS) in Brooklyn Saturday thanks to their third-place finish at last Saturday’s Division 3 Regional Meet at Portage West Middle School. “It’s a big deal for these girls,” said Delton Kellogg cross country coach Dale Grimes. “Some of them it will be their third time at state with the team because this is their third consecutive year, so that’s exciting. It’s exciting to keep that going another year.” They’ll be joined at MIS by senior Jarryd Calhoun from the boys’ team, who is an individual state qualifier for first time thanks to his 15th-place finish Saturday. The top three teams and top 15 individuals from regional meets across the state last weekend earned spots in the state finals. Hopkins won the girls’ team title Saturday with 42 points. Hartford was second with 93 points and the Delton Kellogg girls third with 94 points. “Kind of knew we could end up either second or fourth there, because it was going to be pretty tight,” Grimes said. “Sure enough, it was one point between us and Hartford who was second. So, it did kind of play out. We were hoping for second at least, but we had Hopkins at our invitational so we saw them already this season and knew that they were loaded.” Hopkins’ top five all would have been individual state qualifiers, as they all finished in the top 14. Rachael Weber led the way for the Vikings, winning the individual regional championship in 19 minutes 10 seconds. Senior Christi Boze would have been the only state qualifier for Delton Kellogg. She was sixth in 20:24.1. Teammates Sarah Rendon and Sammi Cleary were just outside the top 15. Rendon was 18th in 21:48.5 and Cleary 19th in 22:00.5. Grimes was especially pleased with the way Rendon was able to finish. “I would say a vast majority of the season she’s been suffering and dealing with her back. So, she hasn’t been training like she should and conditioning like she should, trying to reduce impact on her back and here she steps up. She didn’t think she ran well, but I was really pleased with how she ran. For not training at all like she should and struggling with that back, I thought she did great.” Delton also had Megan Grimes 31st in 22:47.7 and Marcie Stevens 33rd in 22:51.4. Cleary ran her best time of the season, as did Danielle Morse who was 37th in 23:00.8. “It’s good to see those girls working hard as a team, and ultimately earning a spot in the state finals,” Grimes said. Calhoun has been working hard too. “I think Jarryd watched what Zach (Haas) has done the past couple years training-wise. Jarryd has always been a very strong competitor. Track season he ran sub-5 minute miles a few times. That built his confidence a ton. He started practicing, training a little bit harder, a little extra. Kind of like what he has seen Zach do in the past, and everything started coming together.” Both of them are seniors who are dealing with injuries a bit late in the season here. It slowed Haas enough Saturday that he finished 40th in 18:56.0. “So, Zach gets to see Jarryd go to state. It’s his first time. Zach has been to state a couple times, freshman and sophomore year, but it’s frustrating I know for him to be missing out on that as a senior and not competing with guys he should be competing with in these big races.” Delton also had Dylan Kelley 71st in 20:24.5, Alex Stevens 76th in 20:42.3 and Brock Mueller 81st in 21:11.5. Schoolcraft’s Zach Wehner won the regional title, in 16:28.4. Bridgman’s Cameron Bredice was second in 16:39.0. The team title went to Watervliet, which had the third, fourth and sixth place individual finishers. Watervliet finished with 45 points. Schoolcraft earned a spot in teh state finals with 84 points as did Bangor which finished with 107. Berrien Springs was fourth with 142 points, followed by Bridgman 167, Hartford 181, Constantine 184, Brandywine 207, Comstock 242, Hopkins 265, Coloma 276, Delton Kellogg 277, Parchment 292, Bloomingdale 320 and Fennville 362. DK seniors, coach see prep careers end by Brett Bremer Sports Editor An attack by senior Alisha Vanderwoude floated long, and that was that. After four straight seasons of winning the Kalamazoo Valley Association, and a runnerup finish this fall with the Panthers’ only losses coming to Schoolcraft, it was another KVA foe that ended Delton Kellogg’s varsity volleyball season on the first night of the Class C state tournament. Kalamazoo Christian outlasted the Panthers 18-25, 25-21, 19-25, 25-21, 15-13 in a district opening match at Hackett Catholic Central that didn’t end until well after 10 p.m. Monday. “It looked like (Vanderwoude) was going to carry us there at the end, and then the last ball was ... you know,” said Delton Kellogg head coach Jack Magelssen. That one last attack, and a few others, missed their mark, but Vanderwoude finished the night with 30 kills. She was also second on the team with 26 digs and added three aces. She certainly did carry her team throughout Delton Kellogg head coach Jack Magelssen (right) looks on from the end of the bench late in the fifth set of his team’s 3-2 loss to Kalamazoo Christian in the Class C District Opener at Hackett Catholic Central Monday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Delton Kellogg senior Rachel Parker (center back) tries to get her team fired up before the start of its fifth set against Kalamazoo Christian in the Class C District Opener at Hackett Catholic Central Monday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) the evening, and at the end of the third set. With the Comets and Panthers tied one set each, and tied 19-19 in the third set, Vanderwoude blasted four kills among the final six points in the Panthers’ 25-19 win. Senior Rachel Parker and sophomore Hannah Phommavongsa had huge digs for the Delton team during that run, and freshman setter Hannah Walker was solid throughout the night. “I thought Rachel Parker played her butt off. She did everything she could to will us to win,” Magelssen said. The Delton coach said it was some of the best volleyball he’d seen from his team. “In the third game, where we hustled and fought. We haven’t done that all year, flying around the court fighting. We saw that at least. A positive, because we haven’t done it all year.” Kalamazoo Christian responded to that flurry by the Panthers by taking a 9-2 lead early in the fourth set. Delton clawed its way back into the set, eventually trailing just 2221, but a Panther serve went into the net and The Panthers’ Hannah Phommavongsa passes the ball late in the first set of her team’s 3-2 loss to Kalamazoo Christian in the Class C District Opener at Hackett Catholic Central Monday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) then the Comets’ Allison VandenBerg blasted kills to put the set away for her team. Delton trailed again in the fifth set, 9-5, but rallied to take a 13-12 lead before the Comets scored the final three points. Stephanie VanderLugt led Kalamazoo Christian with 14 kills, seven blocks and two aces. VandenBerg finished with 13 kills. Kalamazoo Christian was slated to face Lawton in the district semifinals last night. Delton got 14 kills and five solo blocks from Faith Ferris. Walker finished with 49 assists. Parker had a team-high 31 digs, and Phommavongsa added 23. Kanoelani Chaffee had four aces, and Walker had three. Delton Kellogg seniors Vanderwoude, Parker, Sarah Cleven and Hayleigh Sexton aren’t the only ones who finished out their high school careers Monday. Magelssen said he is done coaching. “I’m going to go have fun with my grandkids,” said the nation’s all-time winningest high school volleyball coach. The Panthers were 29-22 this season, upping Magelssen’s win total to 1,832 for his career. He guided Portage Northern to ten Class A state championships, and two runnerup finishes, before coming to Delton Kellogg in 2005. He led the Delton girls to their first ever district and conference victories, as well as a trip to the state championship match in 2009 and the state semifinals in 2011. TK girls start fast, but have to rally for win over Portland by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Trojans were fired up. Molly Lark knocked two aces in her first run at the service line. Jessica Ziccarello and Sydney LeMay were pounding down sets from teammate Alaina Pohl. Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity volleyball team led Portland 4-1 in the first set of its Class B District Opener at Wayland Union High School Tuesday. The Trojans pushed that lead to 15-5, and eventually won the first set 25-13. They couldn’t sustain that level of play though, and wound up needing to rally to avoid going to five sets with the Raiders. They found themselves in a battle, which they won 25-13, 25-20, 22-25, 25-23. “I thought our first game was great,” said Thornapple Kellogg head coach Patty Pohl. “The second game we really lost momentum and they came back. I said on the sidelines we lost momentum, you’ve got to go out fired up. You’ve got to be aggressive and all that.” The Trojans weren’t able to come out that way in the third set, and Portland took advantage. Although, the Raiders never got too far ahead. The set was tied 22-22, before Portland won it. The Raiders got some big kills from Mae Johnson and Alexa Kaiser in that set, and solid play all evening from setter Nicole Green. The Raiders did carry some momentum from the third set win into the fourth set. They took an early 9-5 lead, but that’s when Ziccarello and LeMay really started to find their groove hitting the ball again. “Sydney was pushing everything, and honestly the whole night Jessica Ziccarello she was just awesome,” coach Pohl said. “I mean, she’s so consistent with her one error every time. She’s something else.” Eventually, Ziccarello blasted a kill to make it 10-8 in favor of Portland. Ziccarello and LeMay paired up for a block to win another point. LeMay pounded a kill for an 11-10 TK lead. Nicole Schondelmayer scored an ace. Then LeMay hit a kill off the face of a Portland defender and pounded another to the floor. A run of seven straight points put TK up 14-10. LeMay finished with 16 kills and Ziccarello had 13. LeMay also had seven blocks. From there the fourth game was back and forth. Portland managed to tie it up at 14-14. Neither team led by more than two points the rest of the way. A back row attack by Portland crashed into the net to finally clinch the win for TK. “I hate that part of volleyball,” coach Pohl said. “I hate the ups and downs and all of that, but I’m glad they pulled it off.” Alaina Pohl finished with 45 assists for the Thornapple Kellogg’s Crystal Smith slides across the floor to get to the ball as teammate Alaina Pohl looks on during the first set of the Trojans’ 3-1 win over Portland in the Class B District Opener at Wayland Union High School Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Trojans. Lark had a team-high 21 digs. Schondelmayer finished with seven kills as well as five blocks. TK also got nine digs from Jessica Morgan. The Trojans will take on Ionia in the sec- ond of two district semifinals in Wayland today, with Lakewood meeting Wayland in the first beginning at 5 p.m. The district championship game is slated for 10 a.m. Saturday. Thornapple Kellogg’s Jessica Ziccarello (5) races back from the net to celebrate with teammates (from left) Molly Lark, Crystal Smith and Jessica Morgan after a kill that gave her team the chance to serve for the match late in the fourth set Tuesday against Portland. (Photo by Brett Bremer) �Page 20 — Thursday, November 1, 2012 — The Hastings Banner No games, practices left for Saxons this season by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Junior Zach McMahon stood in the north end zone, helmet off, with a grimace on his face staring across Baum Stadium at Johnson Field. His senior teammate Eric Hart shared one last on-field hug with Hastings varsity football coach Fred Rademacher as their teammates flooded past them towards the locker room. “I’m proud of them,” said Rademacher. “They’re a great group of guys. They played hard until the end. It’s one of those sad realities of the playoffs. They’re cool, they’re great, but there is only one team in Division 3 that’s going to end up happy on the night of their last game.” Hastings running back Stephen Shaffer takes a moment by himself on the sideline late in Friday’s Division 3 Pre-District loss to Plainwell. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Hastings running back Jon French gets by Plainwell’s Jason McCauslin during a third-quarter run around the right side Friday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) “The thing I’m most disappointed in is that we don’t get to come out and practice again next week. They’re a great group of guys. We have fun at practice. We’ve enjoyed it. That’s the thing that’s going to hurt the most to me, not being able to be around them out on the football field.” Plainwell ended Hastings’ 2012 football season with a 35-16 victory over the Saxons in a Division 3 Pre-District contest in Hastings Friday. The Trojans did it with a combination of hay-makers and body blows. Plainwell’s Homer Roblyer returned the opening kick-off 87 yards for a touchdown. The next time his team go the ball it drove 86 yards in 21 plays, finishing off an 11 minute 19 second drive with a 1-yard touchdown plunge by quarterback Grant Pell. Extra-point kicks by Graham Hubbell had the Trojans up 14-0, and they led the rest of the evening. Plainwell got big plays to start each half. The Trojans led 21-8 at the half, and quickly pushed its lead to 28-8 when the Saxons fumbled the second-half kickoff. The Trojans scored three plays later on a 17-yard touchdown run by fullback Anthony Davis. “That was huge. That was huge,” said Plainwell head coach Darren Conklin. “So many times you come out and I think the kids, both sides, are nervous and it’s a punch in the gut. It just is. We’ve had it both ways. Tonight you couldn’t draw it up any better.” Conklin said he’d never even heard of anything like his team’s 21-play scoring drive happening before, let alone his own team pulling something like that off. The Saxons felt a little bit like the Trojans had taken a page out of their playbook. “Offensively, they just got people there,” Rademacher said. “They controlled the line of scrimmage. They did to us what we do to people generally. 15-play drives. We couldn’t get our defense off the field, and it’s tough to win when that happens.” Plainwell finished the night with 306 yards on the ground. Ryan Britton had 33 rushes for 210 yards, and found a lot of success for a time taking pitches from Pell and racing to the outside. Pell was just 1-of-1 passing, but that one was a 17-yard touchdown pass to Tyler White with just 3.5 seconds left in the first half. The Trojans moved 68 yards in six plays to get the final points of the first half, answering a 16-yard touchdown pass from Hastings’ Chase Huisman to Kenny Cross. Jon French added the two-point run after that first Saxon score. Hastings’ Kenny Cross (right) knocks down Plainwell running back Ryan Britton at the end of a run early in the third quarter Friday during the Division 3 Pre-District contest inside Baum Stadium at Johnson Field in Hastings. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Hastings managed 213 yards on the ground. Stephen Shaffer had 23 carries for 124 yards, and scored the Saxons’ second touchdown. Shaffer’s 20-yard touchdown run pulled the Saxons’ within 28-16 two and a half minutes into the second half, after Cross’ two-point run. A fumble and a pair of interceptions ended the final three Saxon drives, two of them inside the Plainwell 30-yard line. Huisman finished 3-of-6 passing for 29 yards. French led the Saxon defense with 11 tackles, and Cross had seven. Plainwell advances to the District Final Friday night, where it will visit Harper Creek who beat Charlotte 35-21 to start the tournament. Saxon spikers one and done 77572161 Saxon sophomore setter Erin Goggins gets in position to pass the ball during her team’s Class B District Opener against Lakewood Tuesday in Wayland. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Hastings junior Becky Barnard passes a Lakewood serve during the third set of her team’s Class B District Opener at Wayland Union High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Hastings sophomore setter Erin Goggins saw the tears coming and jumped over the row of folding chairs which comprised the Saxon bench at Wayland Union High School Tuesday. “Don’t cry. It was a good season,” she said as she embraced senior teammate Nikki Redman. “It was a winning season.” Somebody had to start the postseason against No. 1, and that somebody was Hastings. The Saxon varsity volleyball team fell 25-5, 25-15, 25-12 to Lakewood in the Class B District Opener in Wayland. Despite the rough end to the season, it was a good one for the Saxons. Their 28 wins puts them among the winningest varsity volleyball teams ever at Hastings. They just weren’t any match for one of the best teams ever from Lakewood The Vikings won the first six points in the opening set, and pushed the lead to 18-1 before Saxon senior Christine Maurer knocked her team’s second kill of the match. “I think the first game, it’s mental,” said Hastings head coach Val Slaughter of the slow start. “They know they’re going up against the number one team in the state. They know it’s their last game. My seniors are upset about that. They kind of got over it that second and third game, and they played a little bit better.” Lakewood head coach Kellie Rowland said she knew the Saxons were better than they The Saxons’ Corrie Osterink (left) and Grace Bosma (right) go up to try and block an attack by Lakewood’s Emily Kutch during the first set of their Class B District Opener at Wayland Union High School Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) showed in that opening set, but was really focused on keeping her team up for the rest of the match. “You have to try to keep them pumped and keep them going. Jordan (Kietzman) at one point had tears in her eyes, probably because she’s so pumped and couldn’t get it released in any other way,” Rowland said. Lakewood led the second set 5-1 and the third 6-1. In that third set though, the Saxons were able to battle back. They tied the set at 6-6, and were down just 10-8 later on after a Viking serve went into the net. The Vikings though pulled away from there. “They cover everything,” Slaughter said. “I think we had what, six kills and maybe four or five aces. They just cover everything. They’re all over on the floor. They’re a very good team. Have to give them props for that.” Beth Tingley led the Vikings in digs with 16, and added six aces. “One thing I think we did well was cover every inch of the court. It seemed like there wasn’t much open floor, and Beth did a nice job at that,” Rowland said. “We’ve got to go back, because Thursday is going to be a real contest. We’ve got to be ready. I’m a nervous wreck.” The Vikings will take on the host Wildcats in the first of two District Semifinals at Wayland Thursday. Thornapple Kellogg, who beat Portland Tuesday, will face Ionia in the other semifinal. Emily Kutch led Lakewood with ten kills and 12 digs Tuesday. Olivia Davis and Vanessa Reynhout had five kills each, and Taylor Vantland and Brooke Wieland had four each. Wieland also had 31 assists. Davis had four aces and Sunshine Young three. Kietzman chipped in eight digs. Ally Owen and Corrie Osterink had three kills each for Hastings. Rachel Quillen and Grace Bosma had four blocks each. GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-11-08.pdf e479eddfde303b42314e07080595e3fe PDF Text Text Terpening awaits sentencing Small towns source of economic development Vikings take district volleyball title again See Story on Page 4 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 15 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 44 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, November 8, 2012 County voters hold to GOP NEWS leanings in Nov. 6 election BRIEFS DKHS band, choir performing Veterans Day concert today The Delton Kellogg Band and Choir will be presenting a Veterans Day concert Thursday, Nov. 8, at 1:30 p.m. The free performance will take place in the high school gymnasium. The band and choir will combine to perform “America the Beautiful” and “Blades of Grass and Pure White Stones.” The band will play a piece that includes “Amazing Grace” and “Battle Hymn of the Republic.” A slide show of Delton area service men and women and pictures of historic events also will be featured. “We would like as many veterans as possible to attend,” said Band Director Sara Knight. Pierce Cedar Creek hosting artists Sunday Pierce Cedar Creek Institute is gearing up for its 10th annual Christmas Holiday Gift Show Sunday, Nov. 11, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission to the show is free. The Holiday Gift Show will showcase the work of more than 25 local artists and crafters. Nature photography, fused glass, jewelry, wood work, herbal gifts, and woven rugs are some of the unique gift items that will be available that day. The institute gift shop will also have items for sale, including nature guides, locally-made birdhouses, homemade dip and seasoning blends, fair-trade jewelry and children’s items. A soup and sandwich buffet lunch will be available. Pre-registration and payment are required for the luncheon and may be made online or by calling 269-721-4190. Veterans Day Sunday will include ceremony, lunch The Hastings American Legion Post 45 will hold a remembrance ceremony Veterans Day on the Barry County Courthouse lawn. Veterans Day, originally called Armistice Day, is held on the anniversary of the armistice that ended World War I at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month. American Legion Post 45 of Hastings welcomes the public and veterans from all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces to the ceremony Sunday, Nov. 11, at 11 a.m. Legion member Barry Wood will speak about the value of military service and the sacrifices made for freedom. The program will conclude with a 21-gun salute and the playing of taps. After the ceremony, the public is invited to join at the American Legion post just south of Hastings on M-37 for a free bean soup and cornbread lunch. The meal will be served from 1 to 3 p.m. Moose Lodge beginning stand-up comedy night The Hastings Moose Lodge will host a comedy night Monday, Nov. 12. “Moose Chuckles” is a free stand-up comedy open mic event featuring everything from firsttime comedians to professional comics in West Michigan. Doors will open at 8:30 p.m. Host Emily Allyn will start the show at 9 p.m. Moose Chuckles is planned to be a monthly show on the second Monday of every month. The Hastings Moose Lodge is located at 120 N. Michigan Ave. Guests must be 21 to enter. Non-members are welcome; no cover charge is required. Barry County voters followed their Republican Party heritage in Tuesday’s general election, despite the nation’s move to reelect Democrat Barack Obama to a second term as president. With 92.6 percent of county precincts reporting as the Banner went to press Wednesday, unofficial results showed that local voters gave the Republican Mitt Romney/Paul Ryan ticket 58.46 percent of all votes cast while affording the Obama/Joe Biden choice just 39.87 percent. Total turnout checked in at 26,361 of Barry County’s 43,886 registered voters, a 60.1 percent participation rate, though it lags more recent presidential election numbers. In 2008, the voter turnout was 66.93 percent. In the 2004 presidential election, 63 percent of Barry County voters cast their ballots. “It was my first presidential election [as county clerk], so I don’t have any background on voter turnout,” said Pam Jarvis, reflecting on an election day that still had not ended for her and for her staff Wednesday afternoon. “The things we encountered were not insurmountable.” Ballot difficulties in Johnstown Township, in one precinct in Barry Township, and in a City of Hastings precinct necessitated “retabbing” of the ballots Wednesday. However, other than in Johnstown Township, where results were not available, the re-tabbing was not expected to affect outcomes, Jarvis said. In Hickory Corners, election officials ran out of available ballots due to a miscommunication with the vendor provider. However, according to Jarvis, the vendor replenished supplies at all voting locations to avoid a similar depletion. “The clerk [in Hickory Corners] had some blank test ballots that were copied and which voters were allowed to fill in,” reported Jarvis. “Those ballot copies had to be duplicated later so the machine could read them, which was allowed under the provisions of the Bureau of Elections.” Barry County’s lean toward the Republican Party was also evident in the U.S Senate race, where Democrat incumbent and re-election winner Debbie Stabenow received 44.22 percent of county votes to Republican Pete Hoekstra’s 51.98 percent. County voters overwhelmingly returned Republican Rep. Mike Callton to his District 87 State House seat by a 62.7 percent to 33.5 percent margin over Democratic challenger Sherry Anderson. Barry County voters reflected the rest of the state in its defeat of all six proposals. The county’s perspective as a Republican stronghold was also evident in local races, most of which were already decided in the Aug. 7 Republican primary. Few Democrats challenged local Republicans Tuesday and four of the five who were elected had no chal- See ELECTION, pg. 7 Community vibrancy attracts hotel investor to Barry County by Doug VanderLaan Editor A community that has worked to perfect culture and recreation, community events and fine dining gets the credit for Barry County’s latest economic boost, a 62-room Holiday Inn Express and Suites which has broken ground on State Street just west of Hastings and is targeted for a summer opening. “I was looking for a vibrant community that needed a hotel, and Hastings exceeded my expectations,” says businessman Mike Moyle of Rockford, who’s following a similar venture in Greenville. “There’s just so much going on, not only healthy and vibrant businesses but different events like the jazz festival, the Gus Macker Tournament and the everything at the Barry Expo Center. Plus, there’s just some terrific restaurants.” For Moyle, it means a potentially successful business venture. For Hastings and for Barry County, he knows it will mean so much more. “We saw this in Greenville when we put the hotel up there in 2006,” relates Moyle, 52. “It changes the community from being a ‘drive through’ to being a destination. It helps local businesses, like the restaurants and the downtown, and just opens up the See HOTEL, page 9 The Bradford White iTEC center is ready for hands-on training and offers 24-hour customer support service. Dustin Bowerman, director of technical services stands outside the center on Eagle Drive in Middleville. Bradford White’s new iTEC facility provides training ground for excellence by Julie Makarewicz Staff Writer Bradford White’s new International Technical Excellence Center provides handson training and state-of-the-art technologies offering contractors, plumbers and wholesale distributors training and product knowledge. The center on Eagle Drive in Middleville hasn’t had a formal opening yet, but has already hosted more than 20 groups for technical training. “Everyone wants to see what we’ve got going on here,” said Dustin Bowerman, director of technical services. Once the facility is fully operational, he said he expects more than 50 groups from across the United States and Canada visiting each year for different training sessions lasting generally two or three days. Bradford White builds all of its products strictly for wholesale distribution, with company officials believing trained professionals should properly install and service the company’s water heaters. The training center was first considered more than 10 years ago, according to Bowerman. He said Bradford White acquired the property in 2006 and created the tech and warranty services department there in 2008. Two years later, the technical center was being planned as an addition. “We talked about it for a long time and it was just finally time to do it,” he said. The company broke ground for the facility in 2011 and completed it in 2012. Bowerman said a great deal of thought and planning went into the facility, making it a unique living demonstration of what Bradford White products can do for businesses, homes and industries. “The whole facility is really a working model – it’s our products in motion,” said Bowerman. No water is ever wasted at the facility. If it’s heated for demonstrations or training, an elaborate mechanical room recycles water into heating systems for the facility. Rainwater collected in containers outside is brought in for use throughout the facility. In-floor heating systems pipe water throughout the building. And outside snowmelt systems have been installed and demonstrated working under concrete, asphalt and stone. A technologically advanced classroom lecture hall has seating for 64 and includes a large projection screen that can be broadcast in other areas of the building. Digital recording capabilities also make it possible for sessions to be recorded. Cut-away examples of Bradford White water heaters give participants an inside view of the products. Additionally, a training room has 10 working stations geared toward groups of 15 to 20 participants. Here, participants get true hands-on learning experiences and close-up See FACILITY, page 3 TK ladies show off their talents in return to Brooklyn by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Thornapple Kellogg varsity cross country coach Tammy Benjamin is convinced that over the past ten years she’s had a few teams that should have finished among the top ten in the state. Those teams just didn’t get the chance, because they were unable to finish in the top three in their brutal regional. The last time the TK girls made the trip to Michigan International Speedway was a team was 2001. This Trojan team did earn the chance and, after a runner-up regional finish, placed fourth at the Lower Peninsula Cross Country Finals Saturday. The Trojans were just four points out of third place. “We really felt like we were peaking at the right time,” said Benjamin. “We were running better every week and really today was no different than what we have been doing for the last six weeks. They ran great last weekend and I knew they were going to run great today and they did. I mean, they ran great.” Sophomore Melissa Winchester earned allstate honors with her 24th-place time of 18 minutes 38.2 seconds. Winchester had lots of people to give her advice heading into her first appearance in See CROSS COUNTRY, pg. 14 The Thornapple Kellogg varsity girls’ cross country team, (from left) Janie Noah, Bryn Beyer, Shelbi Shepherd, Taylor Ward, Casey Lawson, Olivia Lamberg and Melissa Winchester, catches its collective breath as it heads through the chute following a performance which earned it fourth place at the Division 2 Lower Peninsula Cross Country Championship Saturday at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn. (Photo by Brett Bremer) �Page 2 — Thursday, November 8, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Chamber, Economic Alliance host annual Economic Summit Bonnie Hildreth (from left), president of the Barry Community Foundation, developer Mike Moyle and Mark Kolanowski, president and CEO of Hastings City Bank receive a Building Communities Award for the Business Development Revolving Loan Fund from Valerie Byrnes, the president of the Barry County Chamber of Commerce. Attendees of the 2012 Barry County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Alliance’s Economic Summit, which was held Thursday, Nov. 1, at the Barry County Expo Center in Hastings, heard a presentation on the county’s economic outlook for 2013 and learned about how some communities have used local investing to improve their economy. George Erickcek from the W.E. Upjohn Institute for Employment Research entitled his presentation “We will muddle through 2013.” “The national economy continues to muddle through at a pace that is disappointing to all,” said Erickcek. “The state economy continues to be driven by the car industry. Buy a car, it is the right thing to do,” he quipped before adding that, overall, Barry County is doing better than the state in terms of the economy. Erickcek said the state needs an additional 150,000 jobs per month just to break even, but only 114,000 jobs were created in September. “So far this year, employment gains have averaged 146,000 per month, compared with an average monthly gain of 153,000 [jobs] in 2011,” he said. “Nationwide, the unemploy- Jim Carr, Rutland Township supervisor and chairman of the Joint Planning Alliance, receives the Building Communities Award from Barry County Chamber President Valerie Byrnes. Barry County Chamber President Valerie Byrnes presents Bonnie Steinman and Jeff Steinman, owners of Hop Head Farms with the 2012 Economic Impact Award. Valerie Byrnes, president of the Barry County Chamber of Commerce, presents Scott Finkbeiner of ChemQuest of Middleville with a 2012 Economic Impact Award. Amy Cortese, keynote speaker and author of Locavesting, addresses the Barry County Economic Summit. Michael Spezia from the Gilmore Car Museum receives a 2012 Economic Impact Award from Valerie Byrnes, president of the Barry County Chamber of Commerce. State Rep. Mike Callton presents an award to Jeff Chaffin, CEO of Keltech of Delton, in recognition of his company being named one of the Michigan 50 Companies to Watch. ment rate dropped to 7.9 [percent]. However, the labor participation rate is down to 63.6 percent from a low of 64.1 percent last year.” Erickcek said consumer confidence appears to be on the rise, despite the tepid economic growth and stability. Citing information from the to the Conference Board, he said consumer confidence rose to 70.3 percent in September, up from 61.3 percent in August. Manufacturing is slipping; 16,000 jobs were lost in September, the second month of decline, he explained. “Still, [that is] up nearly 174,000 jobs in the last 12 months,” he said. Erickcek said the nation still teeters on the brink of a a fiscal cliff as the economies in Europe and China also founder. “We remain in unknown territory,” he said. “Too many people have been unemployed for too long, National banks are holding too much cash. Corporate profits are no longer tied to employment growth.” Erickcek added that income inequality continues to grow; and, while the housing market across the nation rose 2 percent during the past year, and 7.6 percent in Detroit, inflation Barry County Chamber of Commerce President Valerie Byrnes presents Bob Davis and Carla Wilson-Neil from Pennock Health Services with a 2012 Economic Impact Award. also has increased by 2 percent and few, if any, forecasters are calling for a slowdown in the recession. According to Erickcek, if the Euro-zone collapses, the United States does not fix its economic situation, or a serious conflict develops, the nation’s economy would suffer. However, if corporations invest in the United States due to changing cost structures, it could improve. Closer to home, unemployment continues to grow in Michigan. Erickcek said that in the past 12 months, a total of 47,433 jobs were created in the state, which is an increase of 1.2 percent. Of those jobs, 17,663 were in manufacturing, an increase of 3.5 percent in 12 months. However, 437,000 people, or 9.3 percent, are still unemployed. “Despite the bounce back in employment since 2009, the state’s manufacturers employ only 40 percent of the workers they did in 2000,” said Erickcek, who added that while building remains low, housing prices have seen an increase. “Turning to Barry County, unemployment is dropping and employment is expanding but gain at a sluggish pace,” he said. “The county remains highly dependent on the economic strength of its neighbors. Only 30 percent of county residents work in the county. Education achievement of the county’s workforce remains a worry.” Erickcek said the current unemployment rate for the county is 6.9 percent, with close to 2,000 people out of work. “Out-of-county earnings account for 39 percent of the county’s personal income,” he said. “More people have moved out of the county than in [to the county]; average out — 1,452, average in — 1,309.” In closing, Erickcek said it was not unreasonable to forecast that the local economy would be “ more of the same,” and, with only 30 percent of residents working in the county, it is also reasonable to ask why they are living in Barry rather than Newaygo, Allegan or Ottawa counties. After answering questions from the audience, Erickcek turned the podium over to keynote speaker Amy Cortese, author of Locavesting, who spoke about how communities and business people are investing their See SUMMIT, page 8 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 8, 2012 — Page 3 Hastings Mutual recognized as Elite Wellness Champion FACILITY, continued from page 1 Cutaway views of samples of water heaters give participants a chance to see inner workings. looks at the specific models and water heaters available. “It’s like we’re able to offer on-the-job training. It creates a great comfort level for our contractors who get to learn by actually doing,” said Bowerman. “Our training here can just be expanded.” “Here they get to work with actual products. You can tell me how it works all day long, but it’s so much easier if you see how it actually works. It just provides so much more comfort for our contractors using our products.” The facility has about 18,500 square feet of usable space including the customer support and tech service call center that is staffed 24 hours per day, seven days a week. For those who can’t make it to Middleville, technology also offers the ability for video conferencing with multiple locations at once and provides interactive service calls with technicians on site. The building earned Gold Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification recognizing its “green” initiatives. LEED certification is a green building rating system designed to promote design and construction practices that increase profitability while reducing negative environmental impacts. The system offers four certification levels with the Gold status being the third highest level. The Bradford White facility uses solar panels, in-floor heating systems, radiant heating outside melt systems, and even a 30,000-gallon rainwater collection system. There are bicycle racks, showers and special parking for alternative fuel vehicles. Bowerman said even the lighting fixtures in the facility are the most up-to-date, energy efficient models available. “When we started planning, these lights weren’t even available yet,” he said indicating lighting in the dining area where fixtures automatically calculate the amount of natural Even the flooring greets visitors to the iTEC center. light available and dim or brighten to meet needs. The facility includes a conference room, dining area and full working kitchen where meals can be catered. Bowerman said in addition to being excited to show the facility to contractors and people in the business, he’s also going to be working with area schools and hoping to provide partnerships for students. Bradford White is the only water heater manufacturer that can say its products are entirely made and manufactured in the United States and provides support service in the United States. “We’re very proud of being 100 percent American-made and we’re very proud to be in Middleville,” said Bowerman. “People some- times wonder where Middleville is, and we’re doing our best to let everyone know.” Bradford White Corporation is Barry County’s largest employer and one of the largest employers in the greater Grand Rapids area, with more than 1,400 employees working three shifts. The company produces a full line of residential, commercial and industrial products for water heating, space heating, combination heating and storage applications. The company is headquartered in Ambler, Pa. Bradford White acquired Niles Steel Tank in Berrien County in 2002 and Aero Environmental in Mississauga, Ontario, now known as Bradford White Canada. In 2005, the company acquired Laars Heating Systems in Rochester, N.H. An on-site Pilates class is one of the programs that led to Hastings Mutual Insurance Company being named a Wellness Champion. Hastings Mutual Insurance Company was recently recognized as one of Michigan’s Best and Brightest Wellness Champions for 2012 by the Michigan Business and Professional Association. Newly launched this year, the Best and Brightest Wellness Champions awards program celebrates organizations that promote the health of their employees by making their workplace and community a healthier place to work and live. In addition to being named a Wellness Champion, Hastings Mutual was honored with the Elite Award in the Best of the Best Medium Business category. “Health and wellness programs are at the forefront of every business looking to retain a healthy workforce, said Jennifer Kluge, Michigan Business and Professional Association/Michigan Food and Beverage Association president. “This year’s winning companies represent high standards and an exceptional commitment to healthy employees, healthy families, and a healthy community.” Fitness and wellness is an integral part of the culture at Hastings Mutual. The company offers extensive employee wellness support, including Weight Watchers groups and onsite fitness classes such as yoga, Pilates and boot camp aerobics. In addition, Hastings Mutual brings in registered dietitians to help employees create personalized nutrition programs. Fees for these programs are rebated to employees who maintain weight loss and a healthy lifestyle over time. “The wellness initiatives of our employees have created a spirit of health and wellness at Hastings Mutual,” said Julie Hutchins, human resources manager at Hastings Mutual. “Employees are taking control of their lives by getting healthy and, as a result, the business is being transformed. We are thrilled to be recognized as an Elite Wellness Champion.” To determine the companies that would take home the Elite category awards, the Best and Brightest Wellness Champions used the WellCompanies assessment, created and administered by Wellco, the nation’s leading wellness systems provider. Nominated companies were put through an examination based on eight criteria to benchmark and improve wellness program effectiveness: policies, environment, leadership, awarenessmotivation, assessment-intervention, incentives-integration, measurement and health care costs. This year’s elite winners excelled in all criteria required. The Best and Brightest Wellness Champions is an initiative that recognizes and celebrates quality and excellence in worksite health promotion. The program highlights companies that promote a culture of wellness and those that plan, implement and evaluate efforts in employee wellness promotion. This is the premier awards symposium that celebrates the companies that are making their business, their employees and the community a healthy place to live and work. GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. HCB Military Banking The classroom in the center seats up to 64 participants and is equipped with stateof-the art digital and recording technology. In honor of those who serve and have served our country, we offer a special package of products and services, including a free HCB Military Checking Account and free HCB Military Savings Account. In addition, we offer a personal banking relationship that encompasses your financial needs, whether that be help with budgeting, a credit review or retirement planning. Please visit our website or contact us at 1-888-422-2280 to learn more about how we may serve you. The workroom training center gives hands-on experience in repair and maintenance of water heaters. 77572255 �Page 4 — Thursday, November 8, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Terpening awaits sentencing on criminal sexual conduct by David DeDecker Staff Writer Michael Terpening, 33, was found guilty on eight of 12 criminal sexual conduct charges against underage boys at the Bellevue group home he owned and supervised. A trial which began on Oct. 22, concluded on Nov. 2 with Terpening being led away by Barry County Deputies. Barry County Circuit Court Judge Amy McDowell cancelled Terpening’s bond citing he was a danger to the community and himself. Sentencing is scheduled for Dec. 13. Michigan Assistant Attorney General Angela Povilaitis won the case by proving to the jury, beyond a reasonable doubt, that Terpening had indeed committed the acts of which he was accused. Povilaitis told the jury Terpening had staffed the group home, “The House Next Door” with family members and friends who depended on him for their livelihood. She said he knew they would support him and they would continue to support him no matter what occurred. She explained there were five known victims, all of whom were vulnerable young men placed under Terpening’s authority. Attorney Thomas Schaeffer and co-counsel Joseph Eldred represented the defendant by attempting to poke sufficient holes in the prosecution’s case. The defense diligently combined inconsistencies in witness memories, blurred event timelines, and tarnished victim histories to discredit testimony and weave doubt into the minds of the jury. Schaeffer named the five victims “accusers” to soften the legitimacy of their charges. He told the jury two main victims conspired to make accusations against Terpening. The defense theorized victim’s wanted to squeeze money from the property-rich Terpening. In his closing statement on Nov. 1, Schaeffer said the accusations and trial was nothing but a “Witch Hunt” and hysteria has surrounded the case. He painted a picture of a innocent man pursued by an angry mob. Povilaitis attributed the guilty verdicts to the amount, and quality, of evidence presented. “He preyed upon the most vulnerable of victims, foster child after foster child, young person after young person,” she said in her closing arguments. “It was the number of victims and the number of people willing to testify despite the tremendous pressure not to do so.” Both attorneys did not return phone calls in the week following the verdict. No surprises in Hastings Board of Education election With three seats on the Hastings Area Schools Board of Education up for election and just three candidates, there were no surprises when voters re-elected incumbent board trustee Jon Hart for a partial term and newcomers Valerie Slaughter and Louis Did you Wierenga for two six-year terms. Hart ran unopposed for a partial term ending Dec. 31, 2014, getting 5,279 votes. He had been appointed to that seat after trustee Scott Hodges resigned in November 2011. Valerie Slaughter secured her seat with 3,913 votes and Louis Wierenga brought in 3,407 votes. Although Steve Williams announced prior to the election that he was withdrawing from the race for health reasons, he still drew 2,480 votes. see? Naturally bedazzled A crop of fungi makes sure this rotting elm stump is not left bare, standing in a woodlot in Hastings Township. We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@jadgraphics.com. Please include information such as where and when the photo was taken, who took the photo, and other relevant or anecdotal information. Do you know? New Olds? Do you recognize this photo, taken in front of the old fire department and Hastings City Hall? Notice the bricks still showing in the street. Do you know these men or remember why this photo was taken by Barth Studios? What can you tell us about this photo? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event to reunite the photos with their original clippings or identify photos that may never have been used. If you’re able to help tell this Economic development growing in small towns Last week, I attended the Barry County Economic Development Summit and Business Expo at the Barry Expo Center. The annual event is sponsored by the Barry Economic Development Alliance to bring together business and industrial leaders to discuss jobs and the economic outlook for the county. George Erickcek, senior regional analyst for the W.E. Upjohn Institute, was on hand again to discuss how Barry County is doing in relationship to other counties in the state. Erickcek reported that the national economy continues to muddle through at a pace that was considered “disappointing” to most, but Barry County is doing better than the state as a whole. Erickcek mentioned that jobs, or employment gains, averaged 146,000 per month, compared to 153,000 in 2011. Yet, to see significant gains, we need at least 150,000 jobs just to break even, he said, putting us on a course of regaining jobs lost in recent years. Erickcek went on to say that conditions are improving, especially with consumers whose confidence seems to be on the rise. In recent months, Barry County has shown signs that things are getting better — it’s just slower than most expect. In Middleville, Bradford White is preparing to hold an open house for its new training center, adding jobs and bringing outside contractors to Middleville to learn more about its products. Plus, a major expansion is underway at the plant, moving certain production within the plant to gain production efficiencies and to expand shipping areas, meaning more jobs in the future. Another bright spot in Middleville is the recent expansion of ChemQuest which moved into Middleville’s industrial park with larger facilities that will allow the company to grow and to add more staff in the future. New buildings at the Gilmore Car Museum — which is now open year-round — and at the Hop Heads Farms new commercial hops yard and processing facility are a welcome addition to that part of the county. In Hastings, Pennock Hospital recently held a grand opening ceremony for its new dialysis facility at the Baum Health Center. And, earlier this year, Pennock completed a new Gun Lake medical clinic just east of Patterson Road. Pennock is also working hard to complete a major renovation at the hospital, keeping up with the needs of the community. And, just west of Hastings, ground was recently broken for a new hotel project, that if all goes well, will open sometime in 2013 – just across the street from a new retail strip that was finished recently — home to a Biggby Coffee shop, to Jet’s Pizza and to San Marcos Mexican restaurant — all new to the Hastings landscape. If you’re traveling south on M-37, Dr. Carrie Wilgus just opened the Southside Pediatrics Center, a facility that she says is “caring for the community one child at a time.” Plus, she has additional space available for other businesses or medical specialties. At the former Seif Buick and Chevrolet oil change and detail shop, Sign and Drive Rent-A-Car and motor sales recently purchased and remodeled the building, offering newer, quality vehicles for rent or purchase. At one time, there were 16 new-car dealerships in the county. Today there are none, so we welcome this family-owned business to Hastings. In downtown Hastings, the Barry Community Foundation purchased the former Hastings Presbyterian Church on South Broadway, making space for several nonprofit organizations, bringing them under one roof for economic benefits while saving a landmark building and bringing more people to work in the downtown area. This Saturday, the Hastings Radio Shack will be celebrating its newly expanded store with more merchandise and space to better serve its customers. These are just a few of the things hap- What do you photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@j-adgraphics.com; or call 269-945-9554. Last week’s photo of a half-dozen fedora-topped men standing on a sidewalk drew a couple of responses. Dorotha Cooper recognized in the background the window of the Coffee Shop, her parents’ business. And Bernie Weller knew that the name on the door was that of Dr. Caston, an optometrist, who prescribed a pair of glasses when Weller was in fourth grade (“I could not believe how good I could see once I got my glasses, he recalled”). Cooper said she thought the man second from the left was Howard Tredinnick and next to him was Richard Cook, then owner of the Banner. pening in the area. One big project that has plagued those traveling in and around Hastings since April is the completion of the two bridges and roadways in downtown Hastings. The Michigan Avenue bridge project was recently completed and opened and, earlier this week, the barrels were picked up along M-43 going north from State Street to the city limits, acknowledging the completion of a road project lasting over eight months. So, as we talk about economic development, Barry County has lots to brag about. As part of his presentation at the economic summit last week, Erickcek mentioned a few signs of strength nationally and the potential of the fiscal cliff that still looms on the national scene. Yet, Barry County remains a shining example of what is still happening in small towns all across the nation: Small town development continues to move communities like Hastings up the ladder of growth. Since Erickcek has been keeping records on Barry County, we’ve continued to look better than most and healthier than the state, as a whole. During the summit, Bonnie Hildreth, president of the Barry Community Foundation, announced a new countywide revolving loan fund, supported by some local families as an economic tool to make the hotel project a reality and to make investment funds available in the future. This revolving fund gives Barry County another asset in its toolbox to promote growth for generations. In the wake of a financial crisis, investors are faced with a stark choice: invest in Wall Street or settle for anemic interest rates on savings, bonds and CDs. There’s a better way says, Amy Cortese, author Locavesting and featured speaker at last week’s summit. Cortese’s book, subtitled The Revolution in Local Investing and How to Profit from It, gives local business leaders inside information on how to invest locally rather than in “the faceless conglomerates.” By doing so, local investors can earn profits while building healthy, self-reliant communities. Cortese offered suggestions in her presentation at the summit and got business leaders thinking about how we can use these tools by investing in local businesses and in entrepreneurs with ideas to make our community grow. She gave several examples on how other communities across the country have come together to save businesses and help others grow and expand. The idea isn’t new to Hastings, but it’s certainly worth reconsidering. Looking back to the late 1800s, two local businessmen, Chester and Richard Messer, who were officers at Hastings City Bank, promoted an economic development fund that was reported to be around $30,000. When I asked Brad Johnson, a local accountant, how much would that be in today’s dollars, he answered, “Millions!” The Messers wanted the fund to be used to attract business and industrial expansion to Hastings. They realized more than a century ago the importance that focusing on local business expansion would have on our community by providing jobs for our citizens. Barry County’s Economic Development Alliance continues to seek out these kinds of tools and resources to create a climate of retaining and attracting business and industry to our community. In a global marketplace where communication and transportation is becoming easier and more affordable every day, it’s imperative that we continue to promote the choice to live and to work in small towns. We must educate our business leaders on the opportunities small towns across the county and the state have to offer. Our local economic organization is working hard to make the message loud and clear — just like the Messer brothers did more than 100 years ago and like Cortese advocated last week. think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the questions posed each week by accessing our website www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. Last week’s question: We’ve finally reached the finish line. Let’s see how we do prognosticating the finish ... 70% 30% Romney Obama Fred Jacobs, vice president, J-Ad Graphics For this week: The traditional Veterans Day observance falls on the 11th day of the 11th month at 11 a.m. which, this year, will be a Sunday and in direct conflict with church services in many communities. Should patriotic ceremonies displace religious observances? q q Yes No �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 8, 2012 — Page 5 2011 was bad year for nearly 1,200 cats IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV Chief takes issue with candidate’s comments To the editor: I am submitting this letter regarding comments made by Barry Township challenger Greg Gay for supervisor. Regardless of the outcome of the election, I wanted to respond to Greg Gay’s comments. As Barry Township Police Chief, I take issue with Mr. Gay on two points. The first issue is in regard to the Hummer program. When I took over as chief of police in January 2010, I immediately identified the need for some type of utility vehicle equipped with four-by-four capability in order to handle all terrain as well as any in weather situations such as winter storms. Both Barry Township police cruisers are Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptors. I was familiar with a military program that provided reutilization of equipment for law enforcement at no cost, known as Defense Reutilization and Marketing Service Law Enforcement support office. At my previous employer, the Battle Creek Police Department, the Hummers came in quite handy during many facets of law enforcement, including major storms, and the maintenance costs for these vehicles were quite low. Through this program, the U.S. Military provided Barry Township Police Department with two Hummers at no cost. Both were in excellent shape with low miles and they were valued at around $37,000 each. They were not junk. Replacement parts for both of these Hummers were also available through LESO at no cost. During the past two winters, they provided assistance to a number of stranded motorists and in one case also provided service to rescue to a local resident; a mom who was trying to get to her children during a major winter storm. Our officers have used the Hummers from everything, including major accident scenes, traffic points during parade detail, tactical operations, training, to transporting large items of evidence. Prior to that, officers had to find other means to transport large items of evidence or property. Had Greg Gay asked these questions, I could have told him all this and much more, but he never did ask. As a matter of fact, he never once stepped foot into the police station to introduce himself, let alone do any research. As of this date, except for fuel, municipal plate and standard fleet insurance costs, there has really been no major cost of repair. Should they require service in the future, the police vehicle maintenance budget can be used or I can use drug forfeiture funds at no taxpayer expense. If one of them goes bad, it can be turned back in to the U.S. Military and replaced at no cost. Check with any other agency that participates in this program and they will tell you it supplements patrol operations and is very cost effective. My recommendation to Mr. Gay’s, check facts first. Second, regarding the medical marijuana law, Barry Township Police Department has and will continue to respect those laws pertaining to it in the state of Michigan, but when an individual or group of individuals uses this law as a guise to operate illegally, you can count on the police department taking the appropriate action to shut it down. When making that determination. It is the police chief’s call or decision, not the township supervisor’s. In addition, the Barry Township chief of police reports to a governing board, not just the supervisor. There would have to be unanimous decision ordering me not to enforce a violation of the law, and even if that were the case, in the end, I could request enforcement actions be taken through Barry County Sheriff Department or Michigan State Police. The residents of Barry Township are not stupid. When they call and report illegally drug activity taking place, they are usually, 99.9 percent of the time, dead on. So when one wants to make the inference that Barry Township Police Department is somehow taking their freedom away by enforcing a violation of the medical marijuana law, I say that’s just a bunch of misinformation. Victor E. Pierce, Chief Barry Township Police Department Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov To the editor: Our county has a problem that many people may not be aware of. I am referring to the number of unwanted cats and kittens that are brought to the Barry County Animal Shelter, either as strays or owner surrenders. Just last week, more than 50 cats and kittens came into our local shelter. The shelter has 16 cat cages in the cat room. The overflow of cats is being housed in movable cages placed in the shelter’s heated garage. Currently, adoption of cats and cats going to rescue groups barely makes a dent in the number of cats coming to the shelter. Sadly, the shelter is left with no other alternative but to euthanize so many of these cats, simply because there is no space for them at the shelter. (Our county shelter does not refuse any cat or dog.) Some of these cats are feral, or wild, cats and would probably never be able to successfully become pets. However, many of these cats have been pets that became lost or for assorted reasons are being given up by their owners. There are many ways the people of Barry County can help with this terrible situation. First, please be a responsible pet owner and have your cats spayed or neutered so they do not add to this problem. If you need financial help to pay for this surgery, call the Barry U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. more cats to patrol your barn, remember there probably is someone you know who hasn’t been as responsible in having their cats fixed and would be glad to give you one or two of their extra barn cats. And being the responsible person you are, you would have these new cats fixed to make sure your barn does not become a breeding ground for unwanted cats. And, if you are considering adopting a new cat or kitten, please look at our local shelter first. You can view the wonderful available cats either at the shelter or online at the www.bcac.petfinder.com site. You will feel great, knowing you probably saved this special cat’s life and also made room for one more cat at the shelter. Cats should not be considered disposable. The number of cats euthanized at our local shelter in 2011 due to lack of space was 455. Sick and injured cats added another 357 euthanized cats. And 382 feral cats (including temperament reasons) made a total of 1,194 cats that were not adopted or rescued or returned to their owners. We need to understand that this horrible situation is not something new. It is preventable. It is up to all of us to help reduce this number for this year and for future years to come. Kathy Wiggins Chair, Animal Shelter Advisory Board DNR story omits ‘elephant’ in the state game area To the editor: The most recent ‘DNR Showcase’ in the Reminder was interesting, but neglected to mention key information. The Gladwin Field Trial Area is slated for drilling exploration, and possible horizontal hydraulic fracturing for oil and gas. Michigan’s public lands continue to be under assault by major corporate industrial giants. The Barry State Game Area has had its mineral rights leased to the oil and gas industry also. What is coming to Gladwin will come to Barry County and the rest of the Lower Peninsula of Michigan. At the Gladwin Forest late last winter, a vast swath of clearcut forest was created that ranges from 400 to 1,000 acres. It is possible that this massive clearcut is intended to support the ruffed grouse and American woodcock habitat for the field trials, however, it does not resemble any description of the required habitats of the ruffed grouse or American Woodcock described by biologists. Areas surrounding this clearcut host streams, wetlands and beautiful lakes. When you step out of the clearcut into the woods along a two-track trail, you will notice what I saw and recorded this summer, nestled in the beautiful understory plants; survey stakes that demarcate the ‘well’ and ‘pad corner.’ I’ve seen these exact kinds of stakes in other formerly Pure Michigan forests at the South Excelsior well (Encana Energy) in Kalkaska County, and at the Richfield well (Devon Energy) in the AuSable State Forest near Houghton Lake. I have walked on the fourplus acre thick industrial gravel pads with all their infrastructure; chemicals and more chemicals, tanks of all shapes and sizes, trucks, housing trailer units, hoses, pits, pipes, dozers, drill rig, lights, and on and on, in our state forests! I have seen small up-north cottage backwoods trails transformed overnight into large steep-edged gravel roads. It was really good to read that his Field Trial Area in Gladwin is known as “one of the country’s most outstanding field grounds for Street closure benefited many To the editor: I want to commend the people who were involved in the closing of Green Street for trick-or-treat kids Halloween night. The evening was a huge success, and everybody had a great time. I am not sure who had the most fun, whether it was the people handing out candy and hot dogs, or the people who were receiving them. I hope we can do this again next year. Bill Redman, Hastings cover dogs that work grouse and woodcock.” This is a prime example of the importance of Michigan’s public lands to our tourism and outdoor sporting economy. However, the health and safety of the many world-class dogs that run at 30-minute intervals through the Gladwin Forest, as well as the horses, and humans that track their movements, are in jeopardy When contamination of the air, soil and groundwater begins from application of this heavy-duty industrial process called fracking, good times at the field trials could all be adversely changed in a New York minute. A study on “Impacts of Gas Drilling on Human and Animal Health’ was recently completed by the head of veterinary sciences in the Department of Molecular Medicine at Cornell University, Robert E. Oswald and Michelle Baumberger. Results indicate that there are direct, consistent, adverse and lethal effects on wildlife, humans, domestic pets, livestock and horses when exposed to the toxic air, soil and chemically contaminated water produced by unconventional drilling. Reprints of this study can be obtained by emailing Professor Oswald at reo1@cornell.edu. Michigan citizens have a chance to stave off the imminent despoiling of all of the public lands we have been entrusted to care for and pass on to future generations if we choose to act now. The DNR is in business with the energy industry through the public land mineral lease actions they are conducting semi annually in Lansing. The Department o Environmental Quality is paid by citizens to protect the water, while they are issuing permits to the oil and gas industrialists to contaminate our water supply. Only the Michigan citizenry can reign in this oil and gas boom juggernaut and their unaccountable poison practices that are setting us up for statewide oil and gas fields, and, as a waste injection well depository state. We are capable of creating good jobs using clean energy technologies without falling prey to unscrupulous energy conglomerates. Clean, safe best practices are possible by industry but will only be implemented when Michigan citizens demand it. To this end, Michigan Land Air Water Defense has field suit in Barry County Circuit Court to reverse the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Sale of mineral leases (to oil and gas companies) for Yankee Springs Recreation, Barry State Game Area, and the Allegan Forest/state Game Area. Corinne Turner, Michigan Land Air Water Defense Orangeville Township SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN Social Security helps veterans and active duty military every day by Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Nov. 11 is more than just a national holiday; Veterans Day is a time to honor the men and women who risk their lives to protect our freedom. For those who return home with injuries, it will be our turn to help them. If you know any wounded veterans, let them know about Social Security’s Wounded Warriors website, www.socialsecurity.gov/woundedwarriors. The Wounded Warriors website answers a number of commonly asked questions and shares other useful information about disability benefits, including how veterans can receive expedited processing of disability claims. It is important to note that benefits available through Social Security are different than those from the Department of Veterans Affairs and require a separate application. The expedited process is used for military service members who become disabled while on active military service on or after Oct. 1, 2001, regardless of where the disability occurs. Even active duty military who continue to receive pay while in a hospital or on medical leave should consider applying for disability benefits if they are unable to work due to a disabling condition. Active duty status and receipt of military pay does not necessarily prevent payment of Social Security disability benefits. Receipt of military payments should never stop someone from applying for disability benefits from Social Security. A person cannot receive Social Security disability benefits while engaging in substantial work for pay or profit. However, the work activity is the controlling factor and not the amount of pay the person receives or military duty status. We at Social Security thank all veterans and members of the armed services for all that they do — not only on Veterans Day, but every day of the year. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. The Hastings Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. County Humane Society, 269-945-0602. If you have a cat that you cannot keep, please try to find a good home for the animal. Ask your friends, relatives or co-workers if they are interested in adopting your cat. Spread the word using social networking. Only as a last resort, take your cat to the shelter. If you find a stray cat, if possible, try to temporarily care for the cat while you look for the owner by posting fliers, asking neighbors, notifying the shelter of the found cat (hopefully, the owner will come to the shelter and look at the found listing), and posting online and in the local newspaper. Again, take the cat to the shelter only when all else fails. If you have a feral cat colony on your property, consider a trap, neuter and return program. Research shows that when feral cats are removed from an area, other feral cats will come into the abandoned territory and take up residency. By spaying or neutering these feral cats, the population will decrease, but no new feral cats will come into the still-claimed territory. Again, the Humane Society can offer assistance in having these cats fixed. If you have a barn that you feel requires some cats to keep the rodent population under control, please do not let your cats reproduce. Have your cats spayed or neutered and you will have healthier cats. If you feel you need Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com GET MORE NEWS! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Bonnie Mattson • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 �Page 6 — Thursday, November 8, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Call anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 Worship Together… 77572184 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Rev. Ryan Wieland. Sundays - 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Service; Sunday School and Nursery available during both services (Summer Schedule - Adult Sunday School: 9 a.m., Worship & Children’s Programs 10 a.m.) Youth Group, Covenant Prayer, Choir, Chimes, Praise Band, Quilting Group, Community Breakfasts and more! Call the church office at (269) 721-8077 (M/W/F 9 a.m.-12 p.m.), e-mail office@mei.net or visit www.countrychapelumc.org <http://www.countrychapelumc.org/> for more information SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 . HASTINGS ASSEMBLY OF GOD 1674 S. State Rd., Hastings, MI 49058 Phone 269-945-2285. Sunday morning service times: 9 a.m. with nursery and preschool available and 11 a.m. with nursery, preschool and kids’ church available. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 8:45 a.m. Traditional Worship; 10 a.m. Refreshments; 10:45 a.m. Contemporary Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Youth Pastor Eric Gillespie. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. for children and youth, and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Junior and Senior High Youth Group 6:00 p.m. , and several adult small group opportunities. Wednesday Mid-Week Pioneers at 6:30 p.m.: Pioneer Club, 4 years through 5th grade. Adults: Marriage Enrichment class, Women’s Prayer Group and a Men’s Bible Study. Thursday: Senior Adult (50+) Bible Study at 10 a.m. and lunch at Wendy’s, 11:30 a.m. Third Thursday Brunch at 9:30 a.m. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Sunday, Nov. 11 - Worship Service 8 and 10:45 a.m. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Nov. 11 - Noisy Offering for Love, Inc.; Constitution Meeting aftger 2nd Service; Men & Women’s Alcoholics Anonymous 7 p.m. Nov. 12 - Adventurer Bible Study 7 p.m. Recovery Bible Study 7:30 p.m. Nov. 13 - Grand Rapids Pastor’s Conference 9:30; Youth Committee 6 p.m.; Vision Team 7 p.m. Nov. 14 Wordwatchers 10 a.m. Nov. 15 Clapper Kids 3:45 p.m.; Grace Notes 5:45 p.m.; Adult Choir 7:15 p.m. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 945-2645, fax 269945-2698. Pastor Amy Luckey. http://www.discover-grace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot.com. Friday - 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday - 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday 4 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball. Fiberglass Products 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 State troopers deployed to New Jersey to help in hurricane aftermath The Michigan State Police has deployed 24 uniformed personnel to New Jersey to provide additional law enforcement assistance in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. The MSP deployment is in response to a request from the New Jersey State Police for out-of-state support through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact . The convoy left the MSP Jackson Post Nov. 4 for a seven-day deployment, with patrols taking place from Nov. 5 to 9. Lt. Mike Krumm, Jackson Post commander, was selected to lead the mobilization, which consists of three sergeants and 20 troopers from the First, Fifth, Sixth and Seventh districts. (Hastings and Wayland are in District 5.) During the deployment, MSP members will provide law enforcement support and security for teams of emergency management officials in New Jersey as they assess the extent of damage in areas most severely impacted by Hurricane Sandy. “I am proud our department is able to quickly answer the call from New Jersey for additional law enforcement personnel to help protect public health and safety following Hurricane Sandy,” said Col. Kriste Kibbey Etue, director of the MSP and State Director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security. “Our thoughts go out to everyone impacted by the hurricane and we stand ready to provide additional support and resources should it be needed.” Additionally, a member of the MSP Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division is deployed to the National Response Coordination Center in Washington, D.C., providing assistance with coordinating requests for resources from states impacted by Hurricane Sandy. Search for state Christmas tree ends in Jackson The search for this year’s state Christmas tree has ended with the selection of the largest tree in the history of state Christmas trees in Michigan. Typically, the selected tree is 62 to 65 feet tall. The Department of Technology, Management and Budget has selected a 75foot beauty. The concolor fir was delivered to the Capitol lawn Saturday, Nov. 3 to serve as the 2012 state Christmas tree. After taking nominations from all across the state through the end of July, the evaluation process began, resulting in the selected tree from Jackson. The tree was harvested Nov. 2 at no cost to owners Anthony and Stephanie LaPorte, lifelong residents of Jackson. The tree was first nominated in 2009 and recently became accessible due to the removal of other nearby trees. This is the ninth tree to be selected from the Lower Peninsula; the other 18 tress have come from the Upper Peninsula. DTMB brought the tree to Lansing with help from the Michigan Association of Timbermen and the Great Lakes Timber Professionals Association. The timbermen cut the tree and transported it to Lansing at no cost to the state. The DTMB crew will then work with Hi-Ball Company of Lansing, who volunteers a crane and crew to set the tree. The lighting of the tree will take place the evening of Friday, Nov. 16, as part of the 28th annual Silver Bells in the City celebration. Silver Bells in the City is highlighted by the Electric Light parade, which is immediately followed by the lighting of the state tree, and a fireworks display cascading over the capitol Area Obituaries Marjory Jean Varney Brian Leatherman HASTINGS, MI - Marjory Jean Varney, age 87, of Hastings, died Friday November 2, 2012 at her family’s residence where she was cared for by her daughter Nancy . Marjory was born March 17, 1925 in Nashville, the daughter of Theron and Ruth (Hawthorne) Belson. She graduated from Nashville High School in 1942. She was employed at Tyden Seal Viking for 42 years, retiring in 1990. Marjory was married to Donald E . Varney in February of 1950. She met Don at a dance in Nashville and they continued for years dancing and racing their horses around Barry County. Don preceded her in death on November 19, 1979. Marjory was a member of the Eastern Star, enjoyed knitting, crocheting, collecting Coke memorabilia, and especially loved spending time with grandchildren. She loved to race horses and being involved with the Michigan Harness Association for 20 years. Marjory was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Donald; sister, Edith Maurer; stepsons, Jim Varney, Larry Varney, Ronnie Varney; stepdaughter, Pattie Messcar; great granddaughter, Gracie Marie Patten. Marjory is survived by her daughter, Nancy (Mike ) Hallifax of Hastings; daughters, Marcia Straley and Janet Webb of Hillsdale; as well as many loved grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren; sisters, Lucille Belson, Joyce Curtis, Della Keeler, Sharon Mead, Kathy Stout, Linda Dobson; many nieces and nephews. The funeral service was held Tuesday, November 5, 2012 at the Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. Interment took place at Rutland Township Cemetery. Memorial co Ztributions may be made to a charity of one’s choice. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message to the family. Brian passed away on November 3, 2012 at home surrounded by his family. He was born November 21, 1944 in Ypsilanti, MI to Franklin A. and Fanny M. (Nelson) Leatherman. He graduated from Caledonia Schools, attended New Mexico Highlands University where he played football until he was injured. He then transferred to Grand Valley State University, where he received his master’s degree. He was an educator and principal for 45 years in Caledonia Schools and then went on to teach at Grand Valley State University until his illness. He married Mary Ann Stephens in Grand Rapids on February 23, 1973. Surviving are his wife, Mary Ann of Nashville; children, Archie Leatherman of Bellevue and Stephanie Leatherman of Nashville; grandchildren, Logan, Moria, Maxwell and Ryan; brother, Nelson (Jeanine) Leatherman of South Carolina. Honoring Brian’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of his life will take place on December 2, 2012 from 11a.m.-3 p.m. at Kraft Meadows Middle School, 9230 Kraft Ave. in Caledonia. Those who wish to make memorial contributions are asked to consider the needs of the family. Lauer Family Funeral Home-Wren Chapel, 1401 N. Broadway in Hastings is entrusted to care for the family’s needs. Please share a memory with Brian’s family at www.lauerfh.com. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Lauer Family Funeral Homes State News Roundup 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 FAMILY FUNERAL HOMES dome, weather permitting. For more information, visit http://silverbellsinthecity.org. Air Zoo celebrating Veterans Day with free admission, open cockpits The Air Zoo is honoring those who have served and those who continue to serve the country with a variety of special activities and offers on Veterans Day. The Air Zoo will offer free general admission to veterans, active military, Guard and Reserve members and their immediate families Sunday, Nov. 11. Proof of military service is required. In honor of Veterans Day, the Air Zoo will also feature three open cockpit aircraft — the SPAD VII, North American B-25 Mitchell and North American T-28 Trojan, a walking tour of military aircraft throughout the history of war, and a scavenger hunt for kids. For more information about the Air Zoo’s Veterans Day celebration, call 269-382-6555 or visit www.airzoo.org. Public hearings set for city splash park, zoning amendments The Hastings Planning Commission will hold two pubic hearings during its next meeting at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 3. One hearing will be for a special-use permit and site plan approval for a municipal spray plaza to be located on the northwest corner of State and Church streets. The second hearing will regard amendments to the zoning code that would expand the flexibility of criteria for setbacks in the B-3 and B-5, mixed use, and the A-2, apartment/mixed use neighborhood edge, zoning districts. Hastings Community Development Director John Hart said during Monday’s planning commission meeting that he will present the site plan for the city splash plaza to the Hastings Downtown Development Authority at its next meeting and the Hastings City Council during its Monday, Nov. 26, meeting. Hastings City Manager Jeff Mansfield said the proposed amendments to the building code would allow businesses in the B-3 and B-5 zoning districts the same flexibility extended to the developers for the new Walgreens store on the corner of West State and North Broadway. He noted that setbacks in the B-1, downtown business district, and B-2, M-37 and M-43 corridor zoning districts would remain unchanged. In other business Monday, the commission discussed updating the comprehensive community plan. Mansfield was directed by the commission to approach municipalities in the Joint Planning Alliance — the City of Hastings and Hastings, Rutland and Carlton townships — about increasing areas zoned for industrial development. “We need to be proactive in the communities and take advantage of job creation should opportunities come along,” Mansfield said. “We have to believe that the economy will improve sometime in the future, and we want to be ready when it does.” HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, Nov. 8 — November Reading Club, “Get Fired Up for Reading,” continues for pre-K through 12th grades; Movie Memories celebrates Jeanne Crain with “Margie,” 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 9 — preschool story time enjoys apples, 10:30 to 11 a.m.; house concert featuring David Youngman, 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 12 — computer classes learn email basics, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 13 — toddler story time enjoys stories about “The Three Billy Goats Gruff,” 10:30 to 11 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30; open chess club, 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 14 — Royal Readers continues “The Hysterical History of the Trojan War,” 4 to 5 p.m. Call the Hastings Public Library for more information, 269-945-4263. �Social News The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 8, 2012 — Page 7 ELECTION, continued from page 1 lengers. Trustee Keith Murphy and Treasurer Jenee Phillips in Hastings Charter Township were unopposed Democrats. Clerks Penelope Ypma of Baltimore Township and Jennifer Goy of Orangeville Township also ran as unopposed Democrats. Only Vickie Ritchie, who won re-election as Orangeville Township treasurer, faced opposition, and it came from unaffiliated candidate Sharon Burgess. Democrat Robin Johnson was one of three candidates for two trustee positions in Johnstown Township. Results were still undetermined in that race as of press time. Results of all county, township, and village contests are listed in this issue of the Banner. Tabulations are based on unofficial reporting from the Barry County Clerk’s office as of Wednesday afternoon. In contested races at the county level, incumbent county commissioner Howard “Hoot” Gibson won re-election over Democratic challenger Tom Huis, in the newly redrawn District 1 by a 2,036-1,416 margin. Newcomer Joyce Snow outpolled Barb Cichy, 1,918-1,077 in District 3. In a “re-match” contest, Jim Dull, who won the Aug. 7 Republican primary over incumbent commissioner Jeff VanNortwick, had to repeat the performance when VanNortwick filed as a write-in candidate. Dull bested VanNortwick Tuesday by a 1,778-165 margin. A number of non-partisan races for school board positions and a millage request in the Delton Kellogg school system also dotted local ballots. Two road millage requests — one in Thornapple Township and one in Rutland Charter Township — both went down to defeat by approximate 2-1 margins. In Hastings and Lakewood school districts, candidates were elected without opposition. Incumbents Cynthia Ordway and Donald Haney were re-elected to the Thornapple Kellogg Board of Education. In Maple Valley, incumbents Tim Burd and April Heinze were re-elected to the board of e ducation along with newcomer Brian Green. In Delton Kellogg, incumbent Jennifer Bever and newcomer Kelli Martin were leading challenger Steve Hook, with one precinct yet to be finalized. With 77.8 percent of votes counted, the school’s millage renewal also looked to be approved by a 59 percent-46 percent margin. Among township races that drew interest were: • Barry Township — incumbent Supervisor Wesley Kahler held a 455-236 vote margin over challenger Greg Gay with one of the township’s two precincts being “re-tabbed” Wednesday afternoon. No word was available before the Banner deadline on an official result. • Orangeville Township — In addition, to incumbent Ritchie’s win over Burgess for the treasurer position, Supervisor Republican Thomas Rook was returned to his position with a 858-622 vote decision over challenger Democrat George Williston. “I’m glad to be re-elected and hope to continue programs to protect the environment,” commented Rook. “I thank all who voted for me.” • Yankee Springs Township — A three-person race for two open trustee positions resulted in incumbent Mary Cook and first-time candidate Bruce Campbell, both Republicans, being elected to the board. Campbell led the ballot count with 1,526 votes, Cook followed with 1,439, and Democratic challenger Shanon Vandenberg recorded 936 votes. “This feels good,” commented Cook. “I can retire after this term with a clear conscience. I thank all who voted for me.” Campbell, reached on Wednesday at his place of business, simply responded, “Thank you to all who voted for me.” BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY by Gerald Stein Karl Frohlich to celebrate 80th birthday Karl Frohlich will turn 80 on November 22, 2012. Surprise him with a card and birthday wishes. Send to: 2150 Lacey Rd., Dowling, MI 49050. Molly Hansen to turn 90 On Veterans Day, November 11, 2012, Molly Hansen will celebrate her 90th birthday! Cards and well wishes may be sent to her at: The Warm Friend, 5 East 8th Street Apartment 431, Holland, MI 49423. Jacquelyn (Jackie) Bachman turns 91 There will be a birthday celebration for Jacquelyn (Jackie) Bachman on Nov. 17, 2012 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Woodlawn Meadows, 1821 N. East St., Hastings, MI 49058. Cards only. No gifts please. Marriage Licenses WEST N: 7 5 4 3 M: K 6 4 L: K 9 5 4 K: 7 3 EAST Serenity Corcoran, born at Pennock Hospital on Oct. 22, 2012 at 12:01 a.m. to Crystal Rodriguez of Caledonia. Weighing 6 lbs. 7 ozs. and 20 1/2 inches long. ***** Carson Jay, born at Pennock Hospital on Oct. 23, 2012 at 3:15 p.m. to Ashley Anderson and Beau Steinke of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 15 ozs. and 19 1/2 inches long. ***** Levi Joseph, born at Pennock Hospital on Oct. 24, 2012 at 7:59 a.m. to Mike and Kristine Bekker of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 11 ozs. and 21 inches long. ***** Carson Jay, born at Pennock Hospital on Oct. 23, 2012 at 3:15 p.m. to Ashley Anderson and Beau Steinke of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 15 ozs. and 19 1/2 inches long. ***** Bryce Richard, born at Pennock Hospital on Oct. 24, 2012 at 7:39 a.m. to Kayla Fox and Andy Robins of Hastings. Weighing 8 lbs. 10 1/2 ozs. and 21 inches long. ***** Autumn Lynn, born at Pennock Hospital on Oct. 25, 2012 at 7:27 p.m. to Katy Wallace and Sam Bruce of Hastings. Weighing 6 lbs. 2 ozs. and 18 inches long. ***** Emily Elizabeth, born at Pennock Hospital on Oct. 26, 2012 at 12 noon to Jonathan and Amy Kalkman of Wayland. Weighing 5 lbs. 9 ozs. and 18 1/2 inches long. ***** Patton Michael, born at Pennock Hospital on Oct. 25, 2012 at 12:25 p.m. to Ashley Boomer of Hastings. Weighing 6 lbs. 1 oz. and 19 1/2 inches long. GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! NORTH N: M: A J 10 8 4 2 L: A Q J 10 8 3 K: 5 Newborn Babies Michael Robert Johnson, Nashville and Courtney Rose Mays, Charlotte. Thomas Joseph Brown, Plainwell and Kristina Louise Sperry, Plainwell. Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. N: A 10 9 6 M: Q 7 5 L: 7 6 K: A 10 9 6 SOUTH: N: K Q J 8 2 M: 9 L: 2 K: K Q J 8 4 2 Dealer: North Licensed / Insured / Local Call Scott 517-290-5556 • 877-448-1548 Vulnerable: Both 77572310 FREE Consultation & Estimates! ALSO EGRESS WINDOWS / MOLD REMEDIATION Lead: 7K ® West Pass Pass Pass Pass Pass Today’s column illustrates the wild distributional swings that can happen in a hand of bridge. Look at the hands and decide where you would want to play this hand. Would you consider hearts, diamonds, clubs, spades, or no trump? As it turned out, no trump did not make three; hearts did not make four; spades did not make four; and diamonds did not make five. The only suit to make five was clubs and doubled at that. How did it happen? Point-wise, North and South have almost the same number. North opened with one heart, the higher of the two six-card suits, and she had 16 total points. South responded with one spade, and he had 15 total points. With 31 points between them, how was it possible to make only one game with such powerful numbers? Actually, a bidding war of sorts went on between North and South, with South prevailing to the five club level, only to be doubled by East. That was a good piece of information for South to know. The dangerous opponent would be on his right hand side, and South would always play after East had played. After all three passes, the contract was set at five clubs doubled in the South hand. West duly led a trump, the 7K, to her partner East who had doubled the contract. East took the first trick with the AK, then took the AN, for the first two tricks for East/West. Where would the setting trick come from? Hoping to set up the 9N as the setting trick, East led the 10N hoping that partner might have the KN or could provide a ruff. No such luck. In fact, East/West have a Golden Fit in spades with eight spades between them. South captured the 10N with the JN, and drew three rounds of trump, depleting East of any trump tricks. The 9M to the AM in the dummy was led next. The AL from the dummy took care of the singleton diamond in South’s hand. A diamond led from the dummy was trumped in the South hand. Playing the top spades, the KN, the QN, the good 8N, and a final trump brought home the contract of five clubs doubled for the North South team and a well-deserved 750 points on their side of the score sheet. Looking at the four hands in a post mortem, it is easy to understand why East/West thought they had a good chance to set the contract. With the North/South team struggling to find a trump fit, it seemed obvious to the East/West team that North/South were mismatched. This time, the North/South team had the right combination to make a difficult contract in spite of not having a good trump fit together. The wild distribution in the North/South hands paid off big dividends for them this time. Another time, a wild distribution might cause North/South to exclaim that no one can make anything with such wild distribution. We know better, however. It can be done. ***** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) The Thank You I want to thank my wonderful staff and employees of the courthouse for giving me such a fantastic retirement party. I would also like to thank all of my many friends, co-workers, associates, colleagues and customers who attended my party or took the time to call, e-mail or send me cards. Your thoughtfulness will never be forgotten. It has been my pleasure for the last 21 years to work with you and serve you as the Register of Deeds. God Bless you all. Sincerely, Darla Burghdoff 07613851 77564841 South 1N 3K 4K 5K Pass GREEN LIGHT DRIVING SCHOOL LLC Hastings 517-852-0000 114 E. State St., Suite 3 Nov 26 - Dec 13 Jan 21 - Feb 7 Mar 4 - Mar 21 Apr 15 - May 2 Nov 26 - Nov 28 Dec 26 - Dec 28 Jan 21 - Jan 23 Feb 25 - Feb 27 Mar 4 - Mar 6 Apr 1 - Apr 3 Apr 30 - May 2 Nashville 208 N. Main SEGMENT 1 Dec 21 - Jan 5 Segment Feb 11 - Feb 28 Mar 25 - Apr 11 1 $299 May 6 - May 23 SEGMENT 2 Nov 14 - Nov 16 Jan 2 - Jan 4 Segment Feb 6 - Feb 8 2 Apr 1 - Apr 3 $40 May 21 - May 23 ON LINE American Safety Council Basic Driver Improvement Course (approved by the Michigan Dept of State) www.greenlightdriving.net 06794773 OPEN SUNDAY, NOV. 11TH • 2-4 PM $39 NASHVILLE/THORNAPPLE LAKE AREA 5 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath, 2200 sq. ft. Nearly 1 acre w/winding stream, spring fed pond, backing up to woods, view of Thornapple Lake. Newly remodeled - A must see! New kitchen w/granite counters, new siding and newer windows, fireplace. 1 stall attached garage and 1 detached garage. $124,900.00 Tony Lewis 77572315 East Pass Pass Pass Pass Dbl 06795140 North M 2M 2L 3M 4L Pass Pass of Grand Rapids, Inc. 957-0700 954-2811 www.tony-lewis.com �Page 8 — Thursday, November 8, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of by Elaine Garlock Tonight is the annual Memory Tree program at the Freight House with eight trees waiting to be decorated with the colorful round ornaments inscribed with names of departed. Family members are invited to hang the ornaments. Refreshments will be served. The public is invited. Sunday, Nov. 11, is Veterans’ Day. The Ionia County Genealogical Society will meet Saturday, with member James Moses of Lansing the speaker. This topic will be the history of money, its use and its evolution, especially on the American scene. The Tri-River Museum group will meet Tuesday, Nov. 13, a week earlier than usual, due to Thanksgiving the following week This meeting will be at the Blanchard House in Ionia, which is a real treasure, filled with period furniture, photos and other items from the Blanchard era of early Ionia. The women’s fellowship of First Congregational Church will meet Wednesday, Nov. 14. Tentative plans are for a field trip. Friends of the library are hosting Tea Time Saturday, Nov. 10, at the Lake Odessa Community Library. The event runs from 1 to 3 p.m. The title of the program is Revive, Renew, Repurpose with the speaker from a new local shop, Consignments by Sherrie. Get tickets in advance at the library. Sunday evening, the King’s Choraliers of Grand Rapids gave a concert at Central United Methodist Church with an appreciative audience. The singers hail from several towns in West Michigan, most with Dutch names. They are a professional group with a wide range of sacred music. Their winter schedule ranges from Holland north to Fremont. The 30 men were dressed in identical fashion. An added bonus for local people was to see former resident Norwin Pierce singing. He was the son of the late Leonore (Shellenbarger) Pierce, longtime resident on Fifth Avenue. Another plus was the appearance of Ruth Bylsma of Grand Rapids who volunteered to play flute during the offertory. Ruth attends Central church during summers since and husband Gordon have owned a cottage here for more than 20 years. Several members of the Shellenbarger/Pennington family attended especially to see Norwin perform. Graveside committal services were held Nov. 2 at Lakeside Cemetery for Alice Hoffs, age 110, with a Hoffs nephew Rev. Bruce Weirks leading the service. The service included the group singing “Amazing Grace” and daughter Louise Bartlett Peppel singing “His Eye is on the Sparrow,” favorite music of her mother. Local close relatives were members of the Klein and VanZyl families. Members and friends of First Congregational Church treated their pastor Rev. Mark Jarvie and wife Kathy to dinner at a Ionia restaurant Oct. 28 to celebrate National Pastor’s Week and also his Oct. 29 birthday. Mulliken Chapter 161 Order of Eastern Star held its installation of officers for 2013 Oct. 25 in the evening. Those installed were Marjorie Soderbery, worthy matron and Charles Hawlsey, worthy patron. Installing officers were Carol Upston, past grand matron; Rachel Florida PGO, installing chaplain Hope Smith, grand treasurer, installing Marshall and Nancy Wiers PGO the installing organist. Their next meeting will be Friday, Nov. 16. The Freight House was the scene of a gala dinner Friday evening, with more than 50 people attending. A gourmet meal was prepared by the food experts of the host LOAHS with table settings. The meal came in five courses with expert wait staff, mostly experienced waiters. Guests were seen from Sunfield, Ionia, Freeport and Lowell. Curried onion and apple soup, bourbon ham, chocolate raspberry trifle were among the tantalizing menu items. The railroad crossing on Jordan Lake Avenue is much smoother since the rebuilding that took place two weeks ago. The next crossing that needs repair work is on Tupper Lake Street. That, too, is a farm-to-market road, plus it gets dozens of semi-trucks with trailers bound for APEC, Franklin Metals, Lake Odessa Livestock Auction, plus trucks for local delivery. How many trick-or-treaters did people get? Good question. Those who live on a quiet side street such as Johnson Street might have anywhere from one to a dozen. If they live on Washington Boulevard they might have more than 170. How about Fourth Avenue, Fifth or Sixth Avenue? Those streets usually have far more than 100 youngsters knocking on the doors. Our telephones should be more quiet after Tuesday. We have been inundated with robocalls from all manner of prominent people urging us to vote in a certain way or visit Grand Rapids to see some notable with political purposes. Flyers are in the stores now for Christmas ‘Round the Town Nov. 23 and 24, with many homes open for sales plus the depot complex, the VFW, Pleasant Valley United Brethren Church and some Clarksville locations. One home is on Osborn Road in Carlton Township. Still time to set up owner-only 401(k) for 2012 If you’re a small-business owner, with no full-time employees (except possibly your spouse or business partner), you’re probably used to taking care of just about everything on your own. So, if you’re thinking of establishing a retirement plan — and you should — you might also be attracted to “going solo” with an “Owner-only” 401(k). An Owner-only 401(k), sometimes known as an Individual 401(k), has been around for a few years now, and has proven quite popular — and with good reason. This plan is easy to establish, easy to administer and, most importantly, gives you many of the same benefits enjoyed by employees of a company that offers a traditional 401(k) plan. These benefits include the following: • Tax deferred earnings — Your earnings aren’t taxed as they accumulate. • Tax deductible contributions — An Owner-only 401(k) consists of two components — salary deferral and profit sharing contributions, both of which are generally 100 percent tax deductible. If you choose to make Roth salary deferrals to your Owneronly 401(k), your contributions aren’t deductible, but you won't pay taxes on your earnings, provided you don’t take withdrawals until you’re 59-1/2 and it's been five years since your first year of Roth deferral. • Variety of investment choices — You can choose to fund your Owner-only 401(k) with a wide range of investments. And you can construct an investment mix that’s appropriate for your risk tolerance and long-term goals. Furthermore, an Owner-only 401(k) can potentially allow you to make greater contributions, at an identical income level, than other small-business retirement plans, such as a SEP IRA. In 2012, you can defer up to $17,000, or $22,500 if you’re 50 or older (as long as you don’t exceed 100 percent of your income). Then, in addition, you can make a profit-sharing contribution equal to 25 percent of your income (slightly less if you are SUMMIT, continued from page 1 money to improve their local economies. Cortese said small businesses generate 80 percent of jobs and 50 percent of the gross domestic product. She said small businesses also create a foundation for healthy, diverse neighborhoods and strong local economies across the nation. According to Cortese, just as buy-local campaigns help build communities and the local economy, so does investing in small, local businesses. During her presentation she gave examples from across the nation where groups of investors have pooled their money, invested in local businesses, both large and small, and improved their local economies. “Locally owned companies create jobs; the money stays local, and it adds to the local color and diversity,” she said. Cortese outlined four types of local investing: local investment opportunities networks, which connects local investors with business owners in need of capital; direct public offerings, where businesses offer stock and investment opportunities directly to the public; crowd funding, which is a a collective effort of individuals or businesses that network and pool resources for business start-ups, or expansion; and finally, a return to local stock exchanges, which all but disappeared from the American economy in the 1960s. In addition to the presentations, summit attendees saw the Barry County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Alliance give the following awards and recognition: Business Idea Pitch Winner, Tom Wilkinson. 2012 Liberty Bell Award recognition, J-Ad Graphics. Michigan 50 Companies to Watch, Keltech. 2012 Economic Impact Awards — Hop Head Farms, ChemQuest, Pennock Health Services, Gilmore Car Museum. Building Communities Awards — Barry Community Foundation, Barry County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Alliance, Hastings City Bank, Barry County Enrichment Center and Barry County Area Joint Planning Alliance. Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads BARRY COUNTY Area TEA PARTY MEETING 269-967-8241 06790990 7:00 pm • Tuesday, Nov. 13th, 2012 77572116 Speaker: Pastor Larry Saunders Middle Villa Inn 4611 North M-37, Middleville Gary L. Munson • 269-623-8464 Country Chapel’s Annual In Loving Memory of Pork & Dressing Dinner Frank Ellsworth Country Chapel UMC will host its annual Pork & Dressing Dinner on … who left us far too soon on November 9, 2011. We have many fond “memories” that has helped us through this year. Saturday, November 10th — NOON ’TIL FOOD IS GONE — The event will take place at COUNTRY Miss and Love You, CHAPEL 77572152 9275 S. M-37, DOWLING, MI • 269-721-8077 Mae, Stan & Bobbie, Priscilla & Doug, Linda & Tim, Wayne & Linda, Robert & Madeline, and all Grand and Great Grandchildren Tickets: $8 for adults; $4 for children 6-12 years of age; children under 5 years of age are free The God’s Gals will also be having a Bake Sale. Please join us for this delicious and enjoyable event with Pork, Dressing, Mashed Potatoes, Green Bean Casserole, Squash, Cole Slaw & Pie. EDWARD JONES 77572252 unincorporated). So, by combining the salary deferral and profit-sharing components, you can potentially contribute up to $50,000 to your Owner-only 401(k) in 2012, or $55,000 if you’re 50 or older. And these figures are doubled if your spouse also contributes to the Owner-only 401(k). However, you’re not obligated to contribute anything to your plan. So, if your business is slow one year, you might scale back your contributions, or put in nothing at all. Then, when business picks up again, you can get back toward contributing whatever you can afford, up to the maximum. Clearly, the Owner-only 401(k) can offer you some key advantages in building resources for retirement. But it’s not the only small-business retirement plan on the market, so, before you make a decision, you may want to consult with your tax and financial advisors to determine if an Owner-only 401(k) is indeed the right plan for you. But don’t wait too long. You’ll have to establish your Owner-only 401(k) by Dec. 31 if you want to receive any tax deductions for 2012. And in any case, the sooner you start putting money away, the faster the progress you will make toward the retirement lifestyle you’ve envisioned. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 31.94 +.18 AT&T 34.80 +.17 BP PLC 43.10 +1.37 CMS Energy Corp 23.65 -.57 Coca-Cola Co 37.42 +.40 Eaton 50.42 +5.30 Family Dollar Stores 66.34 +.74 Fifth Third Bancorp 14.59 +.10 Flowserve CP 140.89 +9.96 Ford Motor Co. 11.42 +1.06 General Mills 39.80 -.05 General Motors 26.19 +2.91 Intel Corp. 21.73 -.22 Kellogg Co. 54.76 +1.86 McDonald’s Corp 87.97 +1.26 Pfizer Inc. 24.71 -.72 Ralcorp 72.29 -.19 Sears Holding 66.76 +.07 Spartan Motors 4.98 +.18 Spartan Stores 14.47 NA Stryker 53.46 +1.27 TCF Financial 11.61 +.28 Walmart Stores 73.76 -1.35 Gold $1717.15 +$7.30 Silver $32.05 +.25 Dow Jones Average 31,245 +138 Volume on NYSE 638M -43M The vital grid by Dr. E. Kirsten Peters Some say it’s the most complicated machine we’ve ever built. We rely on it not just each day, but each moment of each day. It reaches into our homes, factories, offices and stores. And at times, it’s surprisingly fragile and subject to massive failure. I’m talking about the electrical grid. We’ve recently seen it tested by Superstorm Sandy. And I’ve been reading up on it in several sources, including in an interesting book appropriately called The Grid by Phillip F. Schewe. I think of the grid as that miraculous machine that starts with energy sources like coal or water behind a dam and ends up with a highly flexible form of energy that we can use in myriad ways. We run our heating systems, lights, computers, stoves, washing machines and more on electricity, banking on the grid being up and running to meet our daily demands. Occasionally a downed limb of a tree takes out a power line in a neighborhood. Usually such an event is nothing more than a local and temporary inconvenience. But the complexity of the grid is enormous, and sometimes that complexity has led to cascading series of events from an initial small problem leading to major regional outages. And that’s been the case even without events like hurricanes. There are several different examples of major grid outages not related to megastorms. Their causes and history differ. But a recent one occurred Aug. 14, 2003. People in New York City, Cleveland, Detroit and Toronto learned just how fragile the grid can be. In total, residents in eight states and two Canadian provinces were plunged into a world without electricity when the grid failed. Everyone suffered, some more than others. Some people were stuck in elevators, some in subway trains. It was a hot day in many places, and air conditioners immediately stopped working. Many people in New York City who relied on the mass transit system couldn’t get home — some slept in public parks or on the steps of public buildings. Still, what may be most impressive about the grid is that so often it functions well. That fact, of course, makes it easy to increase our dependence on it. The story of the grid starts in the Big Apple, and Thomas Edison stands at the heart of the tale. He was the first person to have a vision of what the grid could be and how much it could mean to our daily lives. Famous for inventing the lightbulb and phonograph, Edison also devoted a great deal of energy to the project of building the first grid. And I do mean building. A consummate inventor, Edison was also of necessity an industrialist. To make the first grid, he helped manufacture such things as circuit breakers, fixtures, wiring and conduits. Edison’s first major power station for the delivery of electricity to diverse customers was in Lower Manhattan on Pearl Street. The Pearl Street project was backed financially by the likes of J. Pierpont Morgan. On Sept. 4, 1882, Edison threw the switch that activated the Pearl Street system. Juice flowed down the wires from six sets of steam-generators, each large enough they were known by the nickname “jumbos.” The jumbos ran on coal (coal, it should be noted, still makes a lot of our electricity even today). Once the switch was thrown, the energy of fossil fuels was converted via steam to electrical energy flowing through wires Edison had connected. Edison’s grid worked, and he soon added many customers to the base he reached that first day. But Edison had used the type of electricity known as direct current or DC for his system. That’s the kind of electricity produced by batteries. In the end, it was shown that alternating current or AC power had advantages over DC for applications such as major power grids. In time, the national system was built using AC electricity. Still, the idea of the grid had been created by Edison. I would argue that that day in 1882 set the stage for the revolution in modern living the nation enjoyed throughout the 20th century and on to the present. Nothing is as transformative to our daily lives as a grid bringing electricity into homes, schools and businesses. As we have seen in the aftermath of Sandy, a world without a working grid is radically different from what we have come to expect in our daily lives. Dr. E. Kirsten Peters, a native of the rural Northwest, was trained as a geologist at Princeton and Harvard universities. This column is a service of the College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences at Washington State University. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 8, 2012 — Page 9 difficulty is in getting out again. The second night they worked their way along, slowly and cautiously, not making more than a mile or two and when daylight came the white tents of the militia could be seen a half mile or so beyond. They rested a greater part of the day and matured their plans. About 3 o’clock in the afternoon, they struck the pike and boldly walked toward the camp. They stopped at an orchard and filled their haversacks with apples, crossed the field and engaged the nearest guard in conversation and shared with him their purloined fruit. He was a loquacious fellow and they cultivated his vanity and good will. It was not long before they knew as much about the camp, the number and location of each regiment, as he did. Many of the militia wore the regulation uniform of a soldier, which greatly aided in their enterprise. They told the guard they had been out for a lark and had forgotten the pass. They would saunter along down the line, and probably, would meet some of the boys on guard who knew them and would let them in without disturbing the corporal of the guard, who usually gets crotchety over such matters of Pioneer school boy ran away and became Civil War soldier, part 3 way they approached the subject. Their reasoning satisfied their conscience and they acted accordingly. How to make a successful get-away was the problem they were then called upon to solve. The water supply was outside the guard lines, and soldiers with canteens passed without question, and, when the shades of evening began to fall, they gathered a few and passed the guard in the direction of the spring where they filled their own and left the balance of the canteens. When they arrived in Hagerstown about 10 or 11 o’clock at night, Busha expressed a desire and determination to board the train which was about to depart for the north. His comrade counseled otherwise, but he was determined to make the try that way and led on. Then walked bristly and boldly up to the train which was then well filled. An officer met the young military fugitives as they walked along beside the train looking for an opportunity to get on and sang out: “Boys! where do you belong?” – that question struck Busha dumb, since it was sudden, unexpected and unprepared for. The narrator saw the hesitation of his comrade and promptly came to his rescue and replied; “Oh! right down here!” – pointing to some tents near by. The officer then again questioned, “To the 144th?” “Yes!” was the reply, since there was no other plausible one – they were not posted. The reply satisfied the officer who ordered them to repair to their quarters. The two walked, crestfallen, in the direction of the camp, when out of sight of the officer, they changed their course and made for the suburbs and the open country and to the nearest woods where they carefully picked their way along through the underbrush. When daylight came, they sought the most obscure place in a thicket where they secured needed rest and sleep. When night approached, they were ready again for action. Busha lost his nerve and confidence. He began to see that they were up against the real thing, when they reviewed their experience with the officer who surely would have caught them if he had exercised his wit. He resigned his leadership and insisted that his comrade should engineer their get-away. When Lee raided into Maryland, about 80,000 Pennsylvania militia were rushed down to protect their border, where they remained in camp for some time after the battle of Antietam and until they were sure their presence would be needed no longer. Every precaution was taken to pick up those who could not give a good account of themselves, every stranger was looked upon with suspicion, and the roads and mountain passes were guarded night and day for 50 miles inland. Keen observation and careful study of the problem prepared them for the hazardous undertaking. They resolved to become mountaineers, when they reached the mountains, but a wellguarded valley and a line of encamped troops lay between. They nerved themselves to beard the lion in his den. It is an easy matter to penetrate a camp; the This is a concept drawing of the future Holiday Inn Express and Suites to be built on State Road, just west of Hastings. whole community to more opportunity.” Bonnie Hildreth, president of the Barry Community Foundation, which played a key role in Moyle’s entry to Barry County, has envisioned this kind of an opportunity for economic development for some time. “It just gives me goosebumps when I think of the capacity that the community foundation has to make a difference in this way,” says Hildreth. “Five years ago, we were looking at how to invest money and how to show we’re good stewards of the community. That’s when we started looking at data and how we were reinvesting our donors’ dollars. One area we lacked in was economic development.” What resulted was the establishment of an economic development fund in 2008 that, with 40 percent of grant-making dollars each year, grew to a $20,000 annual contribution. Additionally, the contributions of several area donors interested in creating sustainability for the economic development effort led to the structure of a revolving loan fund that now tops over $1 million in investment. With the assistance of the Lansing-based Great Lakes Capital Fund, the community foundation is now in position to loan funds to worthy economic development projects that, with their success, will repay money to the revolving fund and maintain a perpetual source of support for economic growth in Barry County. “The first investment for this particular fund looks like it’s going to be assisting in the building of a hotel,” says Hildreth, who points out the additional asset of keeping funds close to home. “The revolving loan fund has the ability to continue to be reinvested in other projects in the community. We get the money returned to us, and the money continues to get reinvested. “Instead of investing on Wall Street, we’re investing locally.” Assistance from the community foundation is one part of Moyle’s larger financial package for the hotel project, but it’s yet another example of community cooperation that convinced him to pursue the venture. “It didn’t look real promising,” recalls Moyle of those first days of consideration, “but it was just the amount of help we received from Rutland Township to make this work and from the city in those first meetings. The chamber of commerce was another key ingredient, and this will give them an opportunity to market the area.” Preliminary excavating work has been underway for several weeks, and Moyle says the race with the coming winter will determine the construction schedule and an exact opening date next summer. For Moyle and for all of the Hastings area, anticipation for the summer season has already begun. See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits CITY OF HASTINGS NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING SCHOOLS OF CHOICE DELTON KELLOGG SCHOOLS Delton Kellogg Schools is participating in the Schools of Choice for the 2012-2013 school year. Students who reside in districts adjoining Delton Kellogg’s district are eligible to be accepted. Notice is hereby given that two Council Members have called a special meeting of the City Council of the City of Hastings, as permitted by Section 5.9 of the City Charter, at 7:30 PM on Monday, November 19, 2012 in the second floor Council Chambers at City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. The purpose of the meeting will be to consider an appointment to the position of Mayor until the next regular City election. Delton has opening in all grades K-12. Applications will be accepted Nov. 19th - Nov. 30th, 2012. Send written requests to: Choice Superintendents Office The City will provide reasonable and necessary aids and services for persons with disabilities upon five days notice to the City clerk by calling 269.945.2468 or TDD call relay services at 800.649.3777. Thomas E. Emery City Clerk then waited for evening shade to thicken. They wandered about as any soldier would off duty and when the time came for them to act, they leisurely approached the guard and told him they had planned a little raid for forage that night and did not mind sharing with him the net result – he proved a squealer and warned them off. They made a show of departure and they guard resumed his beat – suddenly they made a dash across his line. It was so unexpected they were lost in the timber before he realized what had happened. He did not fire or raise any outcry. He probably felt chagrined at being out-witted, and thought he would be blamed and perhaps punished, and that after all, it would result only in a raid on some chicken-roost. They passed to the south of Chambersburgh and soon struck the mountains and shaped their course in a general way toward Pittsburgh with nothing but the sun and the stars for their compass. They beheld some rugged scenery as they scaled the mountains. (Continued next week) HOTEL, continued from page 1 77572180 77572306 The following is part of a series that began in the April 30, 1914, Hastings Banner regarding Hickory Corners native Alonzo D. Cadwallader, and his recollections as a boy soldier. He was assigned to Company K, 17th Michigan Infantry when he enlisted just shy of his 15th birthday. He reportedly said he was 18 and from Kalamazoo. This excerpt, from teh May 14, 1914, Banner, picks up just after the battles of South Mountain and Antietam. ***** The 17th bivouacked on the field so dearly won. During the two engagements the regiment lost approximately one-half of those engaged in killed and wounded. Company K mustered only 20 men. I would say here for the information of the lay, which every soldier knows, that Company C is the danger point in every regiment, since it carries the colors, and the enemy always tries to shoot them down and capture them if possible. It requires nerve to be the color bearer, and he is always held in high esteem and his trust a sacred one and one of honor, and the whole regiment guards the flag with zealous care. It is humiliating to allow their flag to fall to the ground in time of battle, and an unpardonable disgrace to allow it to be captured by the enemy. When the color bearer is shot, there are always willing hands to snatch the standard, ere it fall to the ground, and rear it aloft again, even to the last man, for it is the sacred emblem of their country which every soldier loves so well. The fiercest strifes always take place when the enemy charges and attempts to capture the regimental flag – then is when the shrill notes of the bugle are heard above the din of battle and calls: “Rally around the flag, boys, rally once again.” Sanitary conditions were promptly looked after – trenches were dug from three to four feet deep, about six feet wide, the length depending on the number near, and, in those trenches, dead soldiers were arranged crosswise, side by side, with their uniforms for winding sheets and a rail for a pillow, if handy by, where they were supposed to rest quietly and peacefully until Gabriel’s horn should sound on Resurrection morn. About two weeks after the battle of Antietam, the narrator and comrade, Eli Busha, of Company K, met one afternoon off duty and engaged in conversation – they were both of about the same age. Among other things discussed were ill treatment they had received from commissioned officers of the company. Capt. Thayer was the chief offender as they viewed them. He was wounded at South Mountain, but some wounds heal quickly, and they feared he would be more crotchety than ever when he again joined his command. Uncle Sam is not aware how tyrannical and domineering some of his officers are, who he elevates to power, especially the little fellows when epaulets are first assumed or he would raise a rumpus – their superiority must be demonstrated in some form or other, they seem to think and the poor soldier suffers in consequence. The soldiers expect and willingly yield to military discipline, since that is the only way to make military units effective and distinguish them from the rabble, but they do and have the right to expect that they will be treated like men with certain inalienable rights – not to be humiliated to gratify the vanity of an officer. Ill treatment is not a part of the contract when they enter military service. Whether the reasons the two soldiers had for leaving their command by the Frenchman’s route were adequate, will not be discussed – suffice it to say they thought so and acted on what they thought justifiable grounds. It requires nerve to take such a step, since the death penalty could be imposed in time of war – that was soon passed over in the discussion. The disgrace attached to the act was the serious matter of long debate and, nearly wrecked their plans, but as their object was not to evade military duty, they thought they could wipe that out by re-entering the service. The calm reasoning of the man they were not old enough to exercise, but the strong impulse of the boy they had in abundance. They were not used to ill-treatment at home – why should they endure it there – was the mere form. The guard hesitated as they made a show of moving on and asked them where they belonged. They named his own regiment, but a different company. Well, said he, if you are one of our boys, come in, I will not put you to any trouble. They hesitated before entering. They did not wish to impose upon the good nature of a stranger, they said maybe it might be well to call the corporal of the guard, they would wait a little longer and see if they could not recall to mind the pass. When they were fully satisfied, they had eradicated every lurking suspicion, if, indeed, he had ever had any, they accepted his offer, passed the line and mingled with the militia. They were in no hurry, but gradually worked their way to the other side of the camp where they planned for their exit. Running the guard-line is a dangerous trick when troops are at or near the front – that, however, seemed to be the most feasible, as an attempt to secure a pass would lead them into the presence and under the scrutiny of officers, which they did not care to risk. They selected a place in the line near some standing timber they thought the most vulnerable, and Delton Kellogg Schools 327 N. Grove Street Delton, MI 49049 269-623-9225 NOTICE TO BIDDERS BARRY COUNTY ROAD COMMISSION Sealed proposals will be received at the office of the Barry County Road Commission, 1725 West M-43 Highway, P.O. Box 158, Hastings, MI 49058, until 10:00 A.M. Monday December 10, 2012 for the following items. Specifications and additional information may be obtained at the Road Commission Office at the above address or at our web site at barrycrc.org Grass Seed Guardrail Cleaning Supplies Erosion Control Traffic Control Signs Nuts & bolts Scraper Blades The Board reserves the right to reject any or all proposals or to waive irregularities in the best interest of the Commission. BOARD OF COUNTY ROAD COMMISSIONERS OF THE COUNTY OF BARRY Frank M. Fiala Chairman David D. Solmes Member 77572302 D. David Dykstra Member �Page 10 — Thursday, November 8, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Barry County Election Summary for Nov. 6 Unofficial results Straight Party Republican REP Democratic DEM Libertarian LIB US Tax UST Green GRN Nat Law NLP 7,983 4,327 88 57 39 19 President Romney Obama Goode Stein Anderson Write-in REP DEM UST GRN NLP 15,330 10,454 141 139 30 127 U.S. Senator Hoekstra Stabenow Boman Matkin Mikkelson Litle Write-in REP DEM LIB UST GRN NLP US D3 Representative Amash REP Pestka DEM Gelineau LIB Write-in 13,458 11,449 498 223 167 74 20 14,884 9,669 987 46 State D87 Representative Callton REP Anderson DEM Gillotte LIB Write-in 15,741 8,425 859 65 Prosecuting Attorney Pratt REP Write-in 19,273 397 Sheriff Leaf Write-in REP 20,166 391 D5 County Commissioner Geiger REP Write-in 2,743 48 Write-in 5 Brown Write-in Barry Township Clerk D. Knight REP Write-in 601 13 Hastings Township Clerk A. Mennell REP Write-in 1,036 14 1,035 12 D6 County Commissioner DeYoung REP Write-in 3010 67 Barry Township Treasurer Wooer REP Write-in 622 10 D7 County Commissioner Dull REP Write-in Hastings Township Treasurer Phillips DEM 930 Write-in 13 1778 165 Barry Township Trustee Alden REP Lawrence REP Write-in 552 536 14 Hastings Township Trustee R. Mennell REP Partridge REP Wetzel REP Murphy DEM Write-in 842 816 835 763 13 Hope Township Supervisor Feldpausch REP Write-in 1,118 35 Hope Township Clerk Jackson REP Write-in 1,113 30 Hope Township Treasurer Tonkin REP Write-in 1,119 33 Hope Township Trustee Messelink REP Peake REP Write-in 973 998 33 Irving Township Supervisor J. Knight REP Write-in 1,244 18 Irving Township Clerk Ergang REP Write-in 1,267 15 Irving Township Treasurer Wingeier REP Write-in 1,307 8 County Clerk Jarvis REP Write-in 19,642 346 Assyria Township Supervisor Timmons REP 550 Staskus 252 Write-in 5 County Treasurer Vandecar REP Write-in REP 19,452 352 Assyria Township Clerk Massimino REP Write-in 682 63 County Register of Deeds Hurless REP Write-in Carlton Township Clerk Erb REP Write-in 19,426 348 Assyria Township Treasurer E. Miller REP Write-in 716 8 County Drain Commissioner Yarger REP Write-in Carlton Township Treasurer Forman REP Write-in 19,389 386 County Surveyor Reynolds REP Write-in Assyria Township Trustee J. Miller REP Waterbury REP Write-in 647 613 9 19,249 351 Carlton Township Trustee Smith REP VandeCar REP Write-in D1 County Commissioner Gibson REP Huis DEM Write-in 2,036 1,416 15 D2 County Commissioner Stolsonburg REP Write-in 3,189 49 Baltimore Township Treasurer Baker REP 676 Write-in 13 D3 County Commissioner Snow REP Cichy DEM Write-in 1,918 1,077 14 Baltimore Township Trustee DeFields REP Write-in 612 148 3,429 51 Barry Township Supervisor Kahler REP Gay 455 236 D4 County Commissioner Smelker REP Write-in REP Baltimore Township Supervisor B. Miller REP 659 Write-in 17 Baltimore Township Clerk Ypma DEM Write-in 615 14 Carlton Township Supervisor Carpenter REP 958 Write-in 18 961 14 990 7 870 850 25 Castleton Township Supervisor Hartwell REP 927 Write-in 25 Castleton Township Clerk Wilson REP Write-in 932 22 Castleton Township Treasurer Semrau REP 934 Write-in 24 Castleton Township Trustee Trahan REP Wilson REP Write-in 829 847 39 Hastings Township Supervisor Irving Township Trustee Continued next page LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE TO THE RESIDENTS OF BARRY COUNTY Notice is hereby given that the Barry County Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing for the following: Tabled Case Number SP-6-2012 Dennis & Deborah Hutchings Location: A vacant parcel on the North side of Fruin Rd near the intersection of North Ave. in Section 13 of Johnstown Township Purpose: Requesting a special use permit for an adult foster care home per Section 2307 in the Rural Residential zoning district. Case Number SP-10-2012 Robert & Leah Berkimer (owner); Verizon Wireless (applicant) Location: 9645 S. M-66 Hwy in Section 34 of Maple Grove Township Purpose: Requesting a special use permit for a Wireless Communication Antenna per Section 2386 in the Rural Residential zoning district. Case Number SP-11-2012 Thomas and Doris Niethamer (owner); Verizon Wireless (applicant) Location: On a vacant parcel on Martin Road north of Carlton Center Road(M-43) in section 17 of Woodland Township. Purpose: Requesting a special use permit for a Wireless Communication Antenna per Section 2386 in the Agricultural zoning district. Case Number SP-12-2012 Doug and Mary Cisler Location: 10756 Carlton Center Road in Section 24 of Woodland Township. Purpose: To construct a new home and use the existing cottage as an Accessory Dwelling per Section 2305 in the Recreational Lakes zoning district MEETING DATE: November 26th, 2012. TIME: 7:00 PM PLACE:Community Room, Courts & Law Building at 206 West Court St, Hastings MI Site inspections of the above described properties will be completed by the Planning Commission members before the day of the hearing. Interested persons desiring to present their views upon an appeal either verbally or in writing will be given the opportunity to be heard at the above mentioned time and place. Any written response may be mailed to the address listed below, faxed to (269) 948-4820 or emailed to jmcmanus@barrycounty.org. The special use applications are available for public inspection at the Barry County Planning Office, 220 West State Street, Hastings Michigan 49058 during the hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed between 12-1 p.m.); Monday thru Friday. Please call the Planning Office at (269) 945-1290 for further information. The County of Barry will provide necessary auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/hearing upon ten (10) days notice to the County of Barry. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the County of Barry by writing or calling the following: Michael Brown, County Administrator, 220 West State Street, Hastings MI 49058, (269) 945-1284. Pamela A. Jarvis, Barry County Clerk 77572304 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Joseph A Lively, a married man and Laura Lively, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registrations Systems, Inc., as nominee for Centennial Mortgage and Funding, Inc. its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated December 14, 2007, and recorded on December 20, 2007 in instrument 20071220-0005400, and modified by Affidavit or Order recorded on June 27, 2012 in instrument 2012-001648, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ninety-Four Thousand Four Hundred Sixty-Five and 36/100 Dollars ($194,465.36). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on November 29, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel 1: A parcel of land in the Southeast 1/4 of Section 18, Town 1 North, Range 9 West, described as: beginning at a point on the East and West 1/4 Line of said Section 18, which lies 1955 feet due West of the East 1/4 post of said Section 18, Thence South 225 feet; thence West 175 feet; thence North 225 feet; thence East 175 feet to the place of beginning. Parcel 2: Commencing at a point on the East and West 1/4 line of Section 18, Town 1 North, Range 9 West, which lies 1825 feet West of the East 1/4 post of said Section 18; thence South at right angels to said East and West 1/4 line 225 feet; thence West parallel with said East and West 1/4 line 130 feet; thence North 225 feet to said East and West 1/4; thence East 130 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 1, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #379217F02 (11-01)(11-22) 77572109 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Michael J McGill, a married man, joined by his wife, Kelly McGill, who is waiving dower, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Plus, Inc., Mortgagee, dated October 18, 1995, and recorded on October 26, 1995 in Liber 643 on Page 586, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Nationsbanc Mortgage Corporation as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Eight Thousand Nine Hundred FortyOne and 97/100 Dollars ($98,941.97). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on November 29, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land located in the Southeast 1/4 of Section 32, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, described as: Commencing at the Southeast corner of said Section 32, running thence Due North 870.43 feet to the centerline of Irving Road; thence North 47 degrees 22 minutes 30 seconds West 390.25 feet; thence North 54 degrees 17 minutes 30 seconds West 1,021.63 feet; thence North 79 degrees 18 minutes West 567 feet to the point of beginning; thence South 15 degrees 15 minutes West 308.20 feet to the railroad right-of-way fence; thence Northwesterly along said railroad right-of-way fence 450.70 feet; thence North 10 degrees 42 minutes East 319.50 feet; thence South 79 degrees 18 minutes East 475 feet to the place of beginning. Except A parcel of land located in the Southeast 1/4 of Section 32, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, described as: Commencing at the Southeast corner of said Section 32 running thence Due North 870.43 feet to the centerline of Irving Road; thence North 47 degrees 22 minutes 30 seconds West 390.25 feet; thence North 54 degrees 17 minutes 30 seconds West 1,021.63 feet; thence North 79 degrees 18 minutes West 567 feet to the point of beginning; thence South 15 degrees 15 minutes West 208.20 feet to the railroad right of way fence thence Northwesterly along said right of way fence 225.35 feet thence North 12 degrees 58 minutes 30 seconds East 313.85 feet; thence South 79 degrees 18 minutes East 237.50 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: October 25, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #413216F01 77571836 (10-25)(11-15) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Sequoyah Stuk a married woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for Amerifirst Financial Corporation its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated May 19, 2011, and recorded on May 27, 2011 in instrument 201105270005466, in Barry county records, Michigan, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Seven Thousand Seven Hundred Thirty-Seven and 46/100 Dollars ($87,737.46). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on November 29, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A Parcel Of Land In The North 1/2 Of The Northeast 1/4 Of Section 12, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, Which Commences At The Southeast Corner Thereof; Thence North 26 2/3 Rods For a Place Of Beginning; Thence North 220 Feet; Thence West 198 Feet; Thence South 220 Feet; Thence East 198 Feet To The Place Of Beginning, Hastings Township, Barry County, Michigan. Also: A Parcel Of Land In The North 1/2 Of The Northeast 1/4 Described As Beginning At A Point On The East Line Of Section 12, 24 Rods North Of The North 1/8 Line; Thence North 2 2/3 Rods On Said East Line Of Section 12; Thence West 12 Rods; Thence South 2 2/3 Rods; Thence East 12 Rods To Place Of Beginning, Hastings Township, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 1, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #413723F01 77572044 (11-01)(11-22) Call any time for Hastings Banner ads 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF A MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on September 19, 2006, by Daniel R. Welton and Judith Welton, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, given by them to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on October 17, 2006, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 1171503, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank by an Assignment of Mortgage dated November 15, 2011, recorded on December 1, 2011, in Instrument Number 201112010011202, Barry County Records, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of One Hundred Seventy Thousand One Hundred Ninety-Eight and 08/100 Dollars ($170,198.08); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, November 29, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF HASTINGS, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: Parcel “K”: Commencing at the North quarter post of Section 5, Town 3 North, Range 8 West; thence West along the North line of said Section, 1502.00 feet; thence South 47.67 feet to the centerline of Coats Grove Road; thence 335.05 feet along said centerline and the Arc of a curve to the left the radius of which is 358.10 feet and the chord of which bears South 38 degrees 08 minutes 10 seconds West 322.95 feet; thence continuing along said centerline South 11 degrees 20 minutes 00 seconds West 146.76 feet; thence continuing 169.62 feet along said centerline and the arc of a curve to the right the radius of which is 996.45 feet and the chord of which bears South 16 degrees 12 minutes 37 seconds West 169.43 feet to the true place of beginning; thence continuing 98.04 feet along said centerline and the arc of a curve to the right the radius of which is 996.45 feet and the chord of which bears South 23 degrees 54 minutes 20 seconds West 98 feet; thence North 73 degrees 30 minutes 34 seconds West 247.74 feet to an intermediate traverse line of the shore of Leach Lake; thence North 56 degrees 51 minutes 42 seconds East along said intermediate traverse line 137.21 feet; thence South 64 degrees 57 minutes 21 seconds East 86.06 feet; thence South 77 degrees 06 minutes 50 seconds East 86.58 feet to the place of beginning. Including lands lying between said traverse line and the waters of Leach Lake. Formerly Described as: A parcel of land in the Northwest fractional quarter of Section 5, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, described as: Commencing at the Southeast corner of Leach Lake Plat, according to the recorded Plat thereof, said point being 1376 feet West of the North quarter post of said Section 5; thence South 69 degrees 45 minutes West 326 feet; thence South 47 degrees West 69 half feet; thence South 36 degrees West 441 feet; thence South 21 degrees West 75 feet; thence South 16 degrees West 265 feet; thence Southwesterly along the highway 100 feet for the beginning; thence continuing Southerly along said highway 100 feet; thence West to the Shore of Leach Lake; thence Northerly along said Lake Shore to a point West of the place of beginning; thence East to the place of beginning. Commonly known as: 120 Coats Grove Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058-9509 Parcel Number: 08-06-005-042-00 The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: October 10, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, 77571813 MI 48933 (517) 371-8253 (10-18)(11-08) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 8, 2012 — Page 11 Continued from previous page Brummel London Write-in REP REP 1,173 1,125 21 Johnstown Township Supervisor Earl REP * Write-in Johnstown Township Clerk J. Doster REP Write-in Crothers Write-in REP 496 11 Maple Grove Township Clerk Butler REP 539 Write-in 5 Maple Grove Township Treasurer Cole REP 528 Write-in 5 * Maple Grove Township Trustee Heyboer REP 475 Westendorp REP 503 Write-in 5 Johnstown Township Treasurer Nickerson REP * Write-in Orangeville Township Supervisor Rook REP 858 Williston DEM 622 Write-in 4 Johnstown Township Trustee K. Doster REP * Warren REP * Johnson DEM * Write-in Maple Grove Township Supervisor Orangeville Township Clerk Goy DEM Write-in 1,077 24 Orangeville Township Treasurer Ritchie DEM 938 Burgess 343 Write-in 6 Orangeville Township Trustee Perino REP 954 Ribble REP 1,013 Write-in 36 Prairieville Township Supervisor Stoneburner REP 1,151 Write-in 22 Prairieville Township Clerk DeVries REP Write-in 1,149 17 Prairieville Township Treasurer McGuire REP 1,139 Write-in 14 Prairieville Township Trustee Goebel REP 1,065 Grundy REP 1024 Write-in 16 Prairieville Township Park Commission R. Kahler REP 995 Labrecque DEM 817 Write-in 206 Rutland Township Supervisor Carr REP 1553 Write-in 24 Rutland Township Clerk Hawthorne REP Write-in 1553 24 Rutland Township Treasurer Greenfield REP Write-in 1,556 25 Rutland Township Trustee Bellmore REP Flint REP Hanshaw REP Walters REP Write-in 1,371 1,326 1,306 1,285 50 Thornapple Township Supervisor Bremer REP 3,082 Write-in 48 Thornapple Township Clerk Vlietstra REP Write-in 3,072 37 Thornapple Township Treasurer Buckowing REP 3,039 Write-in 37 Thornapple Township Trustee Eavey REP Harrison REP Kenyon REP Wake REP Write-in 2,779 2,753 2,729 2,722 72 Woodland Township Supervisor MacKenzie REP 794 Write-in 11 See ELECTION RESULTS, pg. 16 LEGAL NOTICES Case No. 12-141-CH CIRCUIT COURT SALE In pursuance and by virtue of a Judgment of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on the 17th day of July A.D., 2012 in a certain cause therein pending, wherein THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-9 was the Plaintiff and Teresa Herlein and Duane T. Herlein were the Defendants. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that I shall sell at public auction to the highest bidder, at public venue, at the Barry County Courthouse (that being the place of holding the Circuit Court for said County), on the 29th day of November, A.D., 2012 at 1 pm o’clock in the forenoon, Eastern Standard Time, the following described property, viz: All certain piece or parcel of land situated in the Township of Thornapple, County of Barry and State of Michigan, described as follows: Lot 8, Near Lane Estates No. 1, as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats, Page 7, Barry County Records Tax ID: 14-140-0008-00 Commonly known as: 12942 Near Lane, Caledonia, MI 49316 This property may be redeemed during the six (6) months following the sale. Dated: October 4, 2012 Mark Sheldon Deputy Sheriff Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Ronald S. Glaser (P46986) Attorneys for Plaintiff 43252 Woodward Ave., Suite 180 Bloomfield Hills, MI 77571391 48302 (248) 335-9200 (10-04)(11-15) STATE OF MICHIGAN BARRY COUNTY 58B DISTRICT COURT PUBLICATION OF NOTICE OF SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT FILE NO. 12-557-GC In the matter of John Fechner v Allicia Lupnitz. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS including: Allicia Lupnitz whose address(es) are unknown and whose interest in the matter may be barred or affected by the following: TAKE NOTICE: A Summons and Third Party Complaint were filed on August 23, 2012 in the 56B District Court, 206 West Court Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 before Judge Michael L. Schipper. Defendant has 28 days to file an answer with the court and serve a copy on the other party or to take other lawful action. If an answer is not file or other action taken within the time allowed, judgment may be entered against Defendant for the relief demanded in the complaint. Stephanie S. Fekkes P43549 Law, Weathers & Richardson, P.C. 800 Bridgewater Place 333 Bridge Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, Michigan 49504-5320 77571989 (616) 459-1171 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-26215-DE Estate of Gordon C. Strodtbeck. Date of birth: 07/09/1936. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Gordon C. Strodtbeck, died 08/07/2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Judy Wanks, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court Street, Hastings, MI 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Robert J. Longstreet P53546 607 N. Broadway Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 945-3495 Judy Wanks 1107 W. Chicago Bronson, MI 49028 77572298 (517) 518-9757 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-26219-DE Estate of Ruth V. Roush. Date of birth: 08/24/1931. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Ruth V. Roush, died 08/26/2011. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Sue Roush, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court Street, Hastings, MI 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Robert J. Longstreet P53546 607 N. Broadway Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 945-3495 Sue Roush 4490 Bird Road Hastings, MI 49058 77572300 (269)945-5406 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by James Bradley and Nancy Bradley, Husband and Wife, original mortgagor(s), to Household Finance Corporation III, Mortgagee, dated October 28, 2004, and recorded on November 3, 2004 in instrument 1136631, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Five Thousand Six Hundred Fourteen and 30/100 Dollars ($95,614.30). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on November 15, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A Parcel of land located in the Northwest 1/4 of section 21; Town 1 North, Range 8 West, Beginning at a point which lies North 05 degrees 20 minutes West 75.00 feet from the Northwest corner of Lot 10, Arnetts Resort; thence North 85 degrees 43 minutes West 273.82 feet, thence North 05 degrees 20 minutes West 70.16 feet for the place of beginning; thence South 05 degrees 20 minutes East 70.16 feet, thence North 85 degrees 43 minutes West 30.83 feet; thence North 89 degrees 9 minutes West 30 feet; thence North 5 degrees 20 minutes West to a point which lies North 83 degrees 34 minutes West of the plat of beginning, thence South 83 degrees 34 minutes East to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: October 18, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #409653F01 77571662 (10-18)(11-08) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Carl Forsythe, an unmarried man and Tammy L. Peters, an unmarried woman to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for America's Wholesale Lender its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated August 17, 2006 and recorded August 28, 2006 in Instrument # 1169197 Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage was assigned to: BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, LP, by assignment dated March 29, 2011 and recorded April 15, 2011 in Instrument # 201104150004237 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Seventy-Two Thousand Six Hundred Twenty Dollars and NinetyFive Cents ($172,620.95) including interest 7.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on November 29, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The East 132 feet of the West 30 acres of the North one half of the Southeast one quarter of Section 32, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, except the North 583 feet thereof; also the South 208.71 feet of the West 181 feet of the East 313 feet thereof. Also a strip of land described as: The North one half of the Southeast one quarter of Section 32, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, except the West 30 acres thereof. Also except the East 50 acres thereof. Commonly known as 11377 Davis Rd, Middleville MI 49333 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 10/25/2012 Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, LP, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File 77572033 No: 12-69983 (10-25)(11-15) STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’S Estate FILE NO. 12-26209-DE Estate of LARRY L. DURKEE, Deceased. Date of birth: 02/22/1936. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Larry L. Durkee, who lived at 5301 Barnum Road, Woodland, Michigan died 05/23/2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Randy L. Durkee, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West Court Street, Suite 302, Hastings and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 10/25/2012 Robert L. Byington P27621 222 West Apple Street, P.O. Box 248 Hastings, Michigan 49058 (269) 945-9557 Randy L. Durkee 5301 Barnum Road Hastings, Michigan 49058 77572296 (269) 838-6823 NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF RIVERSIDE CEMETERY COMPANY OF HASTINGS, MICHIGAN A special meeting of the owners, partners, members, and stockholders of Riverside Cemetery Company of Hastings, Michigan will be held on the 7th day of December, 2012 at Three o’clock in the afternoon at 231 South Broadway, Hastings, Michigan for the purpose of authorizing the transfer of Riverside Cemetery to the City of Hastings. October 29, 2012 RIVERSIDE CEMETERY COMPANY OF HASTINGS, MICHIGAN 1003 West State Road Hastings, Michigan 49058 77572165 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF A MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on June 11, 2004, by Jeffrey L. Noteboom and Diane M. Noteboom, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, given by them to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on June 17, 2004, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 1129483, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank by an Assignment of Mortgage dated February 29, 2012, recorded on March 8, 2012, in Instrument Number 201203080002412, Barry County Records, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of One Hundred One Thousand Five Hundred Fifty-Four and 56/100 Dollars ($101,554.56); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, December 13, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF HASTINGS, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: Lot 17 and the West half of Lot 18 of East-Mar-Heights, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats on Page 22, Hastings Township, Barry County, Michigan. Commonly known as: 1630 Boulder Drive, Hastings, Michigan 49058 Parcel Number: 08-06-225-017-00 The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: November 1, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933 (517) 37177572291 8253 (11-08)(11-29) SYNOPSIS RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP REGULAR BOARD MEETING OCTOBER 10, 2012 - 7:30 P.M. Regular meting called to order and Pledge of Allegiance. Present: Greenfield, Lee, Bellmore, Hawthorne, Hanshaw, Flint. Absent: Carr. Appointed Clerk Hawthorne to conduct the meeting. Approved the Agenda as amended. Approved the Consent Agenda with corrections to September meeting minutes. Appointed Election Commission members. Adopted Resolution #2012-155 by roll call vote. Approved a 3-year contract with Hallifax Services for Sexton/Grounds and Janitorial services. Meeting Adjourned at 8:05 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Robin Hawthorne, Clerk Attested to by, Jim Carr, Supervisor 77572288 www.rutlandtownship.org THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. MORTGAGE SALE--Default has been made in the conditions of a Mortgage made by TIMOTHY LEE COLBURN AND JEANETTE ELLEN NORRIS, a single man and a single woman, Mortgagors, to NPB MORTGAGE, LLC, Mortgagee, dated September 13, 2005, and recorded September 19, 2005, Instrument Number 1153020, of Barry County Records, Michigan, which mortgage has been assigned by mesne assignments to First National Acceptance Company, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due as of the date of this notice $77,593.57, including interest at 12.95% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to the statutes of the State of Michigan, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public auction to the highest bidder, on Thursday, November 15, 2012, at 1 o’clock in the afternoon, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, Michigan. Said premises are situated in the Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 16 of Sundago Park, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, Page 71, Barry County Records; c/k/a 82 Sundago Park, Hastings, MI 49058 The redemption period shall be six months from the date of the sale, unless the premises are determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days. Please be advised that if the mortgaged property is sold at a foreclosure sale by advertisement, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 you will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale, or to the mortgage holder, for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: October 18, 2012 LeVasseur Dyer & Associates, PC Attorneys for Mortgagee Assignee P.O. Box 721400 Berkley, MI 48072 (248) 586-1200 77571824 (10-18)(11-08) SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by ERIC W. BEADLE and JODI S. BEADLE, HUSBAND AND WIFE, to MORTGAGE PLUS OF AMERICA CORPORATION, Mortgagee, dated September 25, 2002, and recorded on October 8, 2002, in Document No. 1088998, and assigned by said mortgagee to U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Four Thousand Four Hundred Twenty-Four Dollars and Forty-Nine Cents ($124,424.49), including interest at 6.250% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on November 29, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: COMMENCING AT THE WEST 1 / 4 POST OF SECTION 28, TOWN 1 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST, THENCE WEST 107.00 FEET TO THE CENTERLINE OF BANFIELD ROAD; THENCE SOUTH 28 DEGREES 00 MINUTES EAST ALONG SAID CENTERLINE 1414.00 FEET TO THE TRUE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE SOUTH 28 DEGREES 00 MINUTES EAST, ALONG SAID CENTERLINE OF BANFIELD ROAD, 500.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 62 DEGREES 00 MINUTES EAST 383.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 28 DEGREES 00 MINUTES WEST 500.00 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 62 DEGREES 00 MINUTES WEST 383.00 FEET TO THE TRUE PLACE OF BEGINNING. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 77572245 USB.002825 FHA (11-01)(11-22) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Russell W. Gleason and Wendy M. Gleason, husband and wife to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systms, Inc., as nominee for Regions Bank, its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated January 15, 2004 and recorded January 28, 2004 in Instrument # 1121392 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: Household Finance Corporation III, by assignment dated March 15, 2012 and recorded March 19, 2012 in Instrument # 201203190002759 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Six Thousand Eight Hundred Ninety-Eight Dollars and Forty-One Cents ($86,898.41) including interest 7.45% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on November 15, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That part of the Northwest one-fourth of the Northeast one-fourth of section 21, Town 1 North, Range 8 West, Described as: The East 12 Rods of the Northwest one-fourth of the Northeast one-fourth of section 21, Town 1 North, Range 8 West. Commonly known as 1801 Mill Lake Rd, Battle Creek MI 49017 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 10/18/2012 Household Finance Corporation III, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our 77571792 File No: 12-67167 (10-18)(11-08) IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT 248-5021502. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by William G Mosher, Samantha L Mosher, husband and wife, to Fifth Third mortgage - MI, LLC, Mortgagee, dated September 16, 2005 and recorded September 19, 2005 in Instrument Number 1153026, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Fifth Third Mortgage Company by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Four Thousand Eight Hundred Forty-Two and 90/100 Dollars ($104,842.90) including interest at 6% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 11/29/2012. Said premises are located in the Village of Freeport, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the Village of Freeport, County of Barry, State of Michigan: Lots 3 and 4 of Block 11 of Samuel Roush's Addition to the Village of Freeport, according to the recorded plat thereof, being a part of the North 1/2 of Section 1, Town 4 North, Range 9 West. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: November 1, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 200.9462 (11-01)(11-22) 77572092 �Page 12 — Thursday, November 8, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Routine county agenda carries compelling community stories by Doug VanderLaan Editor Amongst the tedium of committee appointments, budget adjustments and contract renewals and approvals, Barry County Commissioners got a glimpse into the heart and soul of their community during their committee of the whole meeting Tuesday . Besides the encouraging report from a new corrections department education program that’s already recorded nine high school diploma/GED graduates, commissioners also heard the story of a local community agency coming to the financial rescue of a county child care program, and were delighted to meet a transplanted Kansan applying for an opening on the agricultural preservation board and gushing about “y’all’s sandy loam soil.” “I’m pretty salt-of-the-earth,” said Fred Kibler who, with his Michigan-native wife, moved to the state this summer, “and I’m not trying to change anything, I’d just like to help.” Though he was the lone applicant for the agricultural board position and was recommended for approval to next week’s official county board meeting, commissioners recognized the value of Kibler’s future contributions. Kibler’s company was responsible for large wetlands mitigation projects and creek channel relocations in Overland Park, Kan., just outside of Kansas City. He’s worked in turf management all of his life and is a strong believer in conservation as an education topic for individuals and communities. “The type of soil y’all have, that sandy loam, is such a good soil,” pointed out Kibler. “[Growing] human food is getting to be more and more of a problem. We’ve all seen what happens with large conglomerate farming when one little thing goes through the whole crop. If we did have a lot of smaller farmers, like you guys still have up here today, that doesn’t get through our whole food crop so quickly. It’s more localized.” Local care and cooperation was also the subject of a presentation by Family Court Administrator Robert Nida, who informed commissioners that a $25,000 state grant that funds a “wraparound” program that seeks to keep financially at-risk families intact and children out of child care services had been reduced by $11,000 and threatened continuation of the program. “I was prepared to come to the board today and say ‘Look, I need $11,000 to make this program continue to run,’” said Nida. “However, Community Mental Health approached us and said, ‘There may be a way we can work this situation out. We feel some of the clients we serve are Medicaid-eligible and, if you work through us, we can make this program happen.’ “So, I no longer need to ask you for that $11,000,” said Nida, adding, “I’m so proud of the community we live in.” Commissioners felt some pride, too, in the request from Community Corrections Program Director Jeff Westra for approval of a renewal contract for educator Debra Kruse. “At the beginning of this calendar year, we started a new initiative of bringing our GED program into a better place,” reported Westra. “We instituted a new curriculum, a new testing system, and new overall technology to bring us up to par for students to get their GED or high school diploma. “With the changes we’ve made, we’ve had an 89 percent success rate in our test taking, and we’ve had nine students who’ve received their GED or high school diploma.” Commissioners unanimously approved a recommendation that the education contract renewal be forwarded for approval during next week’s county board meeting. The commission also received an update from County Administrator Michael Brown on the animal shelter initiative. Brown reported that 199 applications were received for the shelter director position and six have met job qualifications. All will be interviewed by Brown, who said he hopes to present the top qualifiers the Nov. 20 committee of the whole COURT NEWS Letitia Rae Jordan, 23, of Nashville was sentenced for uttering and publishing Oct. 31. Jordan was ordered by Judge Michael Schipper to serve 30 days in jail, with credit for four days served. She must pay $1,943 in court assessments and serve 36 months on probation. Schipper ordered Jordan to attend drug court. The last 19 days of her jail will be suspended pending successful completion of drug court. Mark Lewis Wellman Jr., 23, of Hastings was sentenced Oct. 31 for breaking and entering with intent. Judge Michael Schipper ordered Wellman to serve six months in jail, with credit for 83 days served. He must pay $2,763 in court assessments and serve 24 months on probation. Schipper ordered Wellman to attend mental health counseling and complete his GED while in jail. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 For Sale For Rent AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 WALL LAKE, DELTON: 2 bedroom apartment. References & deposit. No pets, 269-623-8218. GOLF CAR end of the year clearance sale, 1-800-3219616. HIGH EFFICIENCY CLASSIC- Outdoor Wood Furnace from Central Boiler. 25 year warranty. Call SOS your “Stocking Dealer” Dutton Mi (616)554-8669 or (616)9155061. TOTAL WOOD HEAT. Safe, clean, efficient and comfortable OUTDOOR WOOD FURNACE from Central Boiler. D-2 Outdoor Wood Boilers. (616)877-4081. For Rent MIDDLE LAKE RENTAL: 1BD apartment. All appliances included, washer, dryer, central air. 1st months rent plus security deposit. Call Joe (269)838-2650. NEED BUSINESS CARDS, envelopes, brochures or more? Call J-Ad Graphics at (269)945-9554. Business Services BARRY MITCHELL CONSTRUCTION. NEW CONSTRUCTION AND REMODELING. No job is to big or to small. Indoor and outdoor, whatever you need National Ads I can help. Local, licensed THIS PUBLICATION and insured. Bobcat service DOES NOT KNOWINGLY available. Call (269)760-0808 accept advertising which is for free estimates. deceptive, fraudulent or might otherwise violate law Real Estate or accepted standards of taste. However, this publica- HASTINGS GREAT ACREtion does not warrant or AGE 70 rolling, wooded guarantee the accuracy of w/stream. Private location any advertisement, nor the to build custom home or Priced to sell!!! quality of goods or services cabin. advertised. Readers are cau- $280,000. Call Bill Sikkema Prudential tioned to thoroughly investi- 269-488-0576, gate all claims made in any Preferred Realtors. advertisements, and to use Help Wanted good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when DRIVERS: CDL-A DEDIdealing with persons un- CATED Lanes Company known to you ask for money Drivers & Owner Operators. in advance of delivery of Team & Singles. $1,000 Signgoods or services advertised. On Bonus for 0/0. Fuel Discount. Safety Bonus Program. Excellent Fuel SurBusiness Services charge. Open Board DriversBASEMENT WATER40 CPM. 6 month s verifiable PROOFING: PROFESSIOexp. 800-599-0087. NAL BASEMENT SERVICES waterproofing, crack Recreation repair, mold remediation. Local/licensed. Free esti- WANTED HUNTING mates. (517)290-5556. LAND: (2) Families are interested in leasing acreage PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: for this years deer season. All real estate advertising in this newsCall (269)795-3049 paper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 Estate Sale ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. YOU WANT QUALITY at affordable prices when you buy printing? Call J-Ad Graphics for everything from business cards and brochures to newspapers and catalogs. Phone (269)9459554 or stop in at 1351 N. M43 Hwy., Hastings. meeting. Brown also reported that he is working with staff and volunteers at the animal shelter on policies and procedures he hopes will lead to more efficient processing of animals that are brought to the shelter, specifically a large influx of cats that are still, by necessity, being dealt with largely through euthanasia. Protocol steps are currently being put in place to not only increase adoptions and placement of animals at other shelters, but also to cap the fees associated with spaying and neutering and the need to compensate veterinarians for shelter work that can someday be done by animal shelter staff and volunteers. “Some things happen slowly, but, in some regards, that’s by design,” said Brown, referring specifically cooperation with area rescue programs to save animals from euthanasia. “We don’t want to end up participating with a facility that has good intentions but bad outcomes.” In other business, the commission approved the following recommendations for consideration at its Nov. 13 board meeting: • Re-appointment of Frank Fiala to a sixyear term as a member of the Barry County Road Commission, beginning Jan. 1. Fiala and applicant Don Willcutt, a former Road Commission member and chair, were interviewed by the board Tuesday prior to the recommendation that Fiala be re-appointed. • The appointment of Sharon Zebrowski to the Charlton Park Village and Museum Board in a citizen-at-large capacity for a three-year term beginning Jan. 1. • The re-appointments of David Tripp to the building authority; Kenneth Radant to the transit board; Janet Lydy, Dave Logan and Rick Moore to the Charlton Park Board; and Don Bowers and Robert Nelson to the Commission on Aging Board. All appointments are for three-year terms to begin on Jan. 1. • The approval of home repair bids to homes at 435 W. Clinton St. in Hastings and at 11486 Lighthouse Court in Middleville as part of the Barry County Home Improvement program as administers under a Michigan State Housing Development Authority Grant. The $29,580 bid on the Hastings home went to McKeough Brothers Inc.; the $32,729 bid on the Middleville home to Varney Construction. The Middleville home was also recommended for approval of a $34,358 bid for housing quality standard rehabilitation by Brian Appel Builders, to be paid from the same MISHDA grant program. • Approval of grant contracts with the State Court Administrative Office for administering of the drug court programs at the county’s district and circuit courts. For circuit court drug court, the county’s contribution to the program will be $78,400. The district court drug court is a new program requiring a county match of in-kind funds to total $41,795. • An increase of $300 in cash drawer funds for the county clerk’s office. Following audit recommendations, each employee has an individual cash drawer. The increase will allow each cash drawer to have $100 with which to meet customer change needs. • Approval of a request from County Prosecutor Tom Evans to purchase five years of credited service through the Municipal Employee Retirement Service. The actuarialdetermined cost of $126,594 must be remitted by Evans prior to his departure from his position Dec. 31. • Approval of a five-year auditing services contract with Rehmann Robson, the county’s auditor for the past five years. Annual costs increase from $30,200 for the fiscal year ending Dec. 31 to $34,000 in the final year of the contract Dec. 31, 2016. Abraham and Gaffney, county auditors for the seven years previous to the present Rehmann and Robson contract, also bid on the current award. After consultation with the county treasurer and POLICE BEAT Reality television visits streets of Hastings Hastings Police responded to a home in the 800 block of to South Church Street after getting a report around 10:20 p.m. Nov. 3 of a suspicious item in the street. Officers spoke with the caller who said he had been watching an episode of “Alaskan State Troopers” where troopers were dealing with a blasting cap. The caller said he stepped outside to smoke a cigarette, looked toward the street and saw a shiny object in the street. The caller told officers he looked at the object and read the words “Blaster cap.” Officers looked at the item, confirmed it was in fact a live blasting cap and called the Michigan State Police bomb squad. The bomb squad responded, disarmed the blasting cap and disposed of it. A Michigan State Police K9 unit also searched the area, including the Hastings Middle School area, but found no other explosive devices. Attempted entry foiled by glass The manager of Hometown Lumber in Nashville called police Nov. 3 stating someone tried to use a glass wheel cutter on the business’ front door. The culprit attempted to cut a square hole in the glass, but was unsuccessful. No entry was gained. Damage was estimated at $100. Fence not enough to keep man upright Hastings Police were called around 6:15 p.m. Oct. 28 to a home in the 700 block of North East Street regarding a man who appeared to be intoxicated and staggering as walked north. Propped by a wooden fence and with the help of officers to maintain his balance, the man registered a .20 percent blood alcohol level. During the investigation, a small amount of marijuana and two knives were found. Charges of being a disorderly person and possession of marijuana were issued, plus a request for a carrying a concealed weapon charge. He was placed under arrest and a report has been forwarded to the prosecutor’s office. Suspect tracked and questioned GIVE THE GIFT OF NEWS! Buy your loved one a subscription to the best source of news covering Barry County! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. local firm Walker Fluke and Sheldon on contract bid details, the recommendation to remain with Rehmann and Robson was made. • Approval of the 2013 health insurance plan for county employees. The four health plans in place for 2012 are recommended for continuation. On average, rates for the four plans have increased 9.4 percent. Employer contribution rates to employees will increase by 3.5 percent. Hastings Police responded to a home in the 500 block of East Marshall Street on a report of a suspicious person Oct. 29. As officers arrived, they saw a man attempting to enter a vehicle parked in a driveway in the 600 block of East Marshall. The man took off running after he saw the officers. Police chased the man on foot, but were unable to locate him. A few minutes after the foot pursuit, a Barry County Deputy saw a man matching the description of the suspect walking near South Hanover Street. Hastings officers interviewed the 22-yearold Hastings man who said he was walking home from a relative’s house. A Michigan State Police K9 unit was able to track a scent from the area where the attempted breaking and entering occurred to the area where the man was found. A report will be forwarded to the Barry County prosecutor’s office for possible charges against the 22year-old. Information wanted on pizza shop robbery According to Nashville Police, early morning Saturday Nov. 3, two people entered Good Time Pizza from the rear door using a crowbar. Officers responded after employees arriving for work called 911. Police surmised that suspects were familiar with the layout of the cameras and building. The cameras had been knocked around with the crowbar as the burglars moved about the business. Coins were taken from a machine and a box of deli meat from the cooler. A Michigan State Police canine unit was called in. The dog tracked the suspects south along the river where eight empty money bags were found and returned to the business. No money was kept in the bags at the time of the break-in. This is the second break-in at the restaurant the past three weeks. Call Silent Observer or Nashville Police, 517-8529866. Woman loses card a county away A woman told Barry County Deputies Oct. 19 that her debit card was missing and unauthorized charges were being made to the account. She reported last seeing the card when she paid for breakfast at a restaurant near Richland. The woman told deputies she suspected someone who uses the car. She provided a printout of her account charges and asked for a police report so she could dispute the charges with her bank. Since many of the charges were made in Kalamazoo County and that she probably had lost the card near Richland, deputies advised her to file a report with Kalamazoo authorities. The case is closed. Dog taken by bearded man A resident on Eckert Road in north Irving Township noticed a late-model maroon Chevrolet Suburban pull into her driveway Nov. 3 and idle there for several minutes. She told deputies later the same day, her dog went missing. The woman said her nephew had seen a man with a beard in the maroon Suburban take the blonde female Shih Tzu from the side of the road and place it in the vehicle. A copy of the report was given to the Barry County Animal Shelter. The dog’s owner said she would make flyers and post them in the area. The case remains open. Vacant home remains intact Deputies responded Oct. 30 to a kitchen alarm at a vacant home Waubascon Road in Johnstown Township. Deputies found the shoe prints on a dead-bolted front door. Officers entered the residence and called in the K9 unit, but no suspects were discovered. Nothing in the home was disturbed beyond the forced door. The homeowner agreed to secure the door, but no further action was taken. The case is inactive. Man’s scrap gets listed and freely lifted Deputies were called to a home on Winchester Drive near Shelbyville Oct. 29 in reference to missing scrap metal. The caller told deputies he had come to a rental property to do some work and noticed two aluminum I-beams, two trailer axles and eight tires were missing from the property. The man said his neighbor told him the items were on Craig’s List over the weekend and were listed as “free.” The man told deputies he estimated the value of the items at $1,700, and they were not free. No contact information was included on Craig’s List for the items. When deputies checked Craig’s List, they were unable to find the items. There are no suspects in the case. Minor fails test, pockets found pills Hastings Police observed two people walking in the 300 block of West Grand Street around 3 a.m. Oct. 31. Police made contact with the pair, due to the recent abundance of automobile break-ins. Officers reported an odor of intoxicants on the 20-year-old Hastings man. After the man admitted to drinking several shots, he was given a breath test which registered .09 percent. As police were placing the man under arrest for being a minor in possession of alcohol, they found two pills for which he did not have a prescription. The man said he found the pills on the ground. A report will be forwarded to the Barry County prosecutor’s office for review. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 8, 2012 — Page 13 Bittersweet end to running season for DK seniors by Brett Bremer Sports Editor “Molly, just dancing and singing,” said Delton Kellogg varsity cross country coach Dale Grimes. “No, more running.” Delton Kellogg senior Molly Egelkraut made her feelings clear though ... “No more cross country, bad! “No more running, yeah!” Delton Kellogg’s varsity girls’ cross country team saw its season end a the Division 3 Lower Peninsula Cross Country Finals for the third consecutive season. They finished 27th with 626 points Saturday at Michigan International Speedway (MIS) in Brooklyn. It was Egelkraut’s first appearance in the state finals. Christi Boze ran in the state finals with the team each of the past three seasons. “It’s sad,” said Boze. “Yeah, it’s sad not being able to run with the team again.” The experience of having been to the finals before though did help Boze, and some of her teammates. Boze was 102nd in 20 minutes 30.7 seconds. She ends her career fourth on the Panthers’ all-time top ten list for cross country runners. Delton Kellogg’s Christi Boze (1513) and Maple Valley’s Jessica Rushford (1713) work their way through the pack a few hundred meters beyond the start Saturday at the Division 3 State Finals. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The Panthers’ Sarah Rendon stays on the outside of the crowd early on in the Division 3 girls’ race at the Lower Peninsula Cross Country Championship Saturday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Delton Kellogg senior Molly Egelkraut races along during the first mile of Saturday’s Division 3 championship race at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Delton Kellogg’s Jarryd Calhoun closes in on the finish line at the end of the Division 3 boys’ race at the state finals Saturday in Brooklyn. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Boze knew not to get too thrown off by the pushing in the crowd at the start of the race. She knew not to get too excited about having the finish line in view when she came into the stadium and across the race track at MIS. It’s still a long ways away at that point. “You just keep wanting to pass the person in front of you to get one step ahead,” said Boze. The carried that strategy throughout, making a couple moves up through the pack after the two-mile mark. Junior Sarah Rendon has some state finals experience too, and used that to help her to a 166th-place time of 21:27.1. “Sarah Rendon ran the best time of her life, so huge redemption there for her,” said Grimes. “Sammi Cleary, I didn’t even have to make her mad about anything to make her run well today. That’s been known to happen a time or two. So, we’re making progress there. She’s running really well. Her second time. She’s only a sophomore and it’s her second time running at the state finals. I think that’s a big confidence booster for her also.” Cleary was 185th in 21:54.5. Delton also had junior Marcie Stevens 217th in 22:28.8, freshman Megan Grimes 223rd in 22:46.8, Egelkraut 236th in 24:10.0 and junior Danielle Morse 237th in 24:15.7. “We had Megan, and Dani (Morse) and Molly, three of them first time runners here at state. A little wide-eyed when we got here,” coach Grimes said. “I think the biggest thing, the most intimidating thing can be first of all the crowd that’s here and that start. It’s such a long start before you make the first turn and you’re almost a half a mile into it and you’ve been running straight, flat for the whole start. “The adrenaline is going and if you take off too fast there because it’s such a competitive crowd you can’t ever recover from that. If you take off too slow, you can’t get back into the race. It’s tough.” Macomb Lutheran North sophomore Gina Patterson seemed to have all the kinks worked out, racing to an individual state championship in Division 3 with her time of 17:43.4. Of the top eight runners in the race, six were sophomores. Runner-up Raquel Serna from St. Louis was the only senior. She finished in 17:59.8. Panther junior Marcie Stevens nears the finish line at the end of the Division 3 State Finals Saturday at MIS. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Jackson Lumen Christi edged Calvin Christian for the Division 3 girls’ championship, 167 to 171. Caro was third with 201 points, followed by Benzie Central 204, Lansing Catholic 237, Hanover-Horton 241, Macomb Lutheran North 275, Bath 288, Shepherd 299 and Mason County Central 332 in the top ten. Maple Valley senior Jessica Rushford ended her third trip to the state finals with a 45th place time of 19:39.8 - a new personal record. “I definitely improved from last year, and I was right on my pace,” said Rushford. “I had a lot of support from all my friends and family . I’m truly blessed to have them all. I just prayed the whole time that I could get through it and God provided me the strength.” Delton Kellogg also had senior Jarryd Calhoun running in the Division 3 boys’ race. He was 130th in 17:36.8 in his first trip to the finals. “He’s frustrated,” coach Grimes said. “He wanted to be in the 16s again, where he’s been a couple times this year. I think it comes back down to that calf that was bothering him. He missed a few days of practice, just nursing that a little bit and I think that set him back just enough to not recover and get into that competitive zone.” Things were very competitive at the top of the boys’ team standings. Jackson Lumen Christi took the title with 129 points. Marlette was second with 137 and Calvin Christian was third with 147. Benzie Central finished fourth with 187 points, followed by Freeland 196, Ithaca 216, Mason County Central 223, Watervliet 250, Stockbridge 261 and Lansing Catholic 312 in the top ten. Erie Mason senior Nick Raymond was the Division 3 boys’ individual champion with a time of 15:05.1. Hanover-Horton’s Bryce Stroede was the runner-up in 15:22.4. Lions’ improvements TK/Hastings girls continue through last match undefeated again It was a fast meet, and the Trojans were the fastest. The Thornapple Kellogg/Hastings varsity girls’ swimming and diving team finished off its second consecutive undefeated season by winning its second consecutive OK Rainbow conference Tier II championship Saturday in Hastings. The Trojans took the conference meet by 122 points over Grand Rapids Catholic Central and Calvin Christian who tied for second place. Conference records were set in half the events between Friday’s preliminary races and Saturday’s finals. Things went well from the get-go for the TK/Hastings girls. The team of Kayla Strumberger, Alexa Schipper, Hannah Bashore and Kayla Kroells set a new conference record, a new team and pool record in the CERC in Hastings in the 200-yard medley relay in the prelim’s. They finished in 1 minute 53.28 seconds, and came back to win the event with a time of 1:53.98 in the finals. The medley relay’s time was a state qualifying time. Those four Trojans earned all-conference honors, as did their teammates Libby Betcher and Jennifer Tuokkola for their performance at the conference meet. TK/Hastings’ Katy Garber was close, finishing just one point out of the final all-conference spot. Schipper had a great weekend, also winning the 100-yard breaststroke in 1:09.15, and setting a new team record with her runner-up time of 2:20.80 in the 200-yard individual medley. Catholic Central’s Taylor Vera won that race in 2:16.22. Strumberger also set a team record with a runner-up time of 1:03.27 in the 100-yard backstroke. That race was won by Wayland’s Sydney Hooker. Bashore set a conference record in win- ning the 100-yard butterfly in 1:01.57. Calvin Christian’s Tristyn Edsall had a big meet, winning the 100-yard freestyle in 54.30 seconds, after setting conference and pool records in the event in the prelim’s with her time of 54.04. Kroells was second in that finals race in 55.71. Edsall also set a new conference and pool record in the 50-yard freestyle prelim’s, with a time of 24.39, then won the finals race in 24.61. Kroells was third in that event in 25.83. TK/Hastings also had the team of Kroells, Garber, Kourtney Dobbin and Schipper place second to Calvin Christian in the 200-yard freestyle relay. The Squire foursome of Ana Estrella, Erin Brink, Megan Fryling and Edsall finished in a pool record time of 1:44.29, while the Trojans came in at 1:44.99. Calvin Christian also won the 400-yard freestyle relay, with the team of Estrella, Brink, Kylie Wilson and Edsall finishing in a conference and pool record time of 3:47.37. TK/Hastings was third in that relay, with Bashore, Dobbin, Marissa Swanson and Strumberger finishing in 4:02.76. Betcher had a runner-up finish for TK/Hastings in the 100-yard breaststroke, finishing only behind teammate Schipper, with a time of 1:11.69. Baily Sopjes from Wayland set a new conference record in the diving competition with a score of 359.60. Calvin Christian’s Ana Estrella won the 500-yard freestyle in 5:34.79. The TK/Hastings girls finished the day with 459 points. Catholic Central and Calvin Christian tied for second with 337 each. Wayland was fourth with 295 points, followed by West Catholic 187, Union 175, Creston/Central 167 and Ottawa Hills 121. by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The improvements the Lions made throughout the fall didn’t always show up in wins. Sometimes they did. Maple Valley’s varsity volleyball team closed out the Kalamazoo Valley Association season with an seventh-place finish at the league tournament hosted by Pennfield Saturday (Oct. 27). The Lions knocked off two teams there, Constantine and Hackett Catholic Central, who had contributed to their 0-9 regular season in the league. “We have improved every step of the way,” said Maple Valley head coach Sarah Carpenter. “The teams we lost to by 2, 3, 4, 5 points during the season, we came back and showed our improvement.” Maple Valley started the day by topping Constantine 19-25, 25-9, 25-16, 25-21. That earned the Lions the chance to face the defending league champions from Delton Kellogg in the quarterfinals. The Panthers scored a 25-4, 25-23, 25-16 win there. The Lions then fell to Pennfield in a close match, 20-25, 25-18, 25-8, before ending the day with a 25-22, 21-25, 15-8 win over Hackett Catholic Central in the match for seventh place. That final Maple Valley victory put the Lions in a tie with the Irish for eighth place in the final league standings. Schoolcraft ended Delton Kellogg’s fouryear run atop the conference standings, beating the Panthers 19-25, 25-19, 25-19, 25-20 in the championship match. The Lion season came to an end Thursday, with a 3-0 loss to Potterville in the Class C District Semifinals at Maple Valley High School. The Vikings topped the Lions 25-17, 25-18, 25-16. “Throughout the entire season my girls kept getting better, and better and better,” Carpenter said. “That’s all you can ask. They improved with every step. They came to practice every day ready to work hard. I’m very Maple Valley’s Kandys Larsen (left) and Loisa Larino leap up to try and block an attack by Potterville’s Katie Peterson Thursday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) proud of them.” The Lions continued to show improvements Thursday. Olivia Ricketts debuted her jump serve. Setters Timara Burd and Kandys Larsen had one of their best nights of the season setting balls up for the Lions’ top hitters - keeping them just far enough off the net. Potterville advanced take on Dansville in the district final Saturday morning at Maple Valley High School. The Aggies defeated Laingsburg in the first district semifinal of the The Lions’ Timara Burd sets the ball up during her team’s Class C District Semifinal against Potterville at Maple Valley High School Thursday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) evening Thursday. Dansville topped Potterville 3-1 in the district final. �Page 14 — Thursday, November 8, 2012 — The Hastings Banner CROSS COUNTRY, continued from page 1 Thornapple Kellogg sophomore Melissa Winchester nears the finish line, in 24th place, at the end of the Division 2 girls’ race Saturday at the cross country state championships. (Photo by Brett Bremer) the state finals, her senior teammate Casey Lawson who was an all-state runner as a sophomore, her big sisters Rebecca and Allyson who were both all-state runners themselves, as well as her coach. “Just to get out and then not to sprint too soon at the end because it looks a lot closer than it is,” were the two biggest pieces of advice said Winchester. She managed to take advantage of both pieces of advice. She was able to run with the rest of the all-state girls near the front for the whole race. When the competitors passed the two mile mark and eventually came back inside the race track at MIS Winchester fought the urge to take off, and saved some Thornapple Kellogg’s David Walter (center - 483) races along in the crowd at the start of the Division 2 boys’ cross country championship Saturday at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn. (Photo by Brett Bremer) energy to pass a big pack of girls in the final few hundred meters before the finish. That group included South Christian sophomore Alexis Miller, who Winchester battled throughout the O-K Gold Conference season and hadn’t beaten before. Miller was 26th in 18:39.5. “It was good to see her get all-state, especially since her sister just won the regional over in Wisconsin three hours before we ran,” Benjamin said. Allyson, a sophomore at Grand Valley State University, won the Division 2 Midwest Regional in Kenosha, Wisconsin, Saturday morning leading the GVSU girls to their 12th straight regional title. The greater Grand Rapids area showed off its strength with the top six teams at MIS Saturday being the top three teams from regionals hosted by Allendale and Carson City-Crystal. Forest Hills Eastern won the Division 2 girls’ championship with 93 points. Spring Lake was second with 150, followed by Grand Rapids Christian 182, Thornapple Kellogg 186, East Grand Rapids 231 and Forest Hills Northern 233. Two other teams from the west side of the state were seventh and eighth, with Gull Lake finishing with 236 points and Cedar Springs 275. Warren Regina and Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood rounded out the top ten with 277 and 332 points respectively. All seven Trojans ran their best times of the season, and six of them seven had career personal records. Lawson just missed all-state honors, which went to the top 30. She was 37th in 18:58.7. The final medalist was Byron Center freshman Karin Lee, who was 30th in 18:46.8. TK also had freshman Olivia Lamberg 61st in 19:30.9, Shelbi Shepherd 90th in 19:51.3, The Trojans’ Shelbi Shepherd (1344) works to get by Grosse Ile’s Christina Hoelzle (1314) as they near the finish line Saturday at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Janie Noah 95th in 19:53.7, Bryn Beyer 152nd in 20:32.4 and Taylor Ward 167th in 20:49.0. Grand Rapids Christian’s Julia Bos won the division’s individual title, running away from the field early and winning in 17:20.4. Cedar Springs’ Kenzie Weiler was second in 17:49.1 and Hamilton’s Molly Oren third in 18:03.3. Forest Hills Eastern was led by Clara Cullen’s sixth-place time of 18:10.6. FHE had two medalists, with Mary Kostielney 28th in 18:42.8, and the Hawks also had Lauren Allard 38th in 18:58.9, Abagail Bowman 44th in 19:11.2, and Angela Ottenwess 52nd in 19:20.1. Junior David Walter from the Thornapple Kellogg boys’ team placed 87th in the Division 2 boys’ race, hitting the finish line in 16:39.1, a time he said he thought was a personal record by a couple tenths of a second. “It didn’t go as good as I obviously planned for it to go, but I’m happy to be here,” Walter said. St. Clair took the boys’ team title with 114 points. Linden was second with 128, followed by St. Joseph 153, Cedar Springs 200, Mason 240, Chelsea 242, Gull Lake 260, Grand Rapids Christian 271, Otsego 282 and Ionia 304 in the top ten. Connor Mora was the individual champion, finishing in 15:04.2, outlasting Mason’s Tanner Hinkle who was second in 15:09.8. Vikes survive scare at Wayland; Trojans top Ionia by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Head coach Kellie Rowland called it being “very tight.” Senior outside hitter Olivia Davis called it “sketched out.” Whatever the lingo, the Lakewood varsity volleyball team wasn’t quite ready at the start of its Class B District Semifinal against Wayland Thursday. The host Wildcats raced out to a 17-6 lead in the first set. One thing that doesn’t hurt in that situation is having seven seniors on the roster, four who have four seasons of varsity experience. “We were through that last year (in the district finals with Thornapple Kellogg),” Davis said. “We always seem to, when we have our backs up against the wall we usually tend to push more and play well. I think we really took the opportunity when we needed to and pushed through it.” The Vikings got their seventh point thanks to some miscommunication on the Wayland side, then added their eighth on an ace by senior Jordan Kietzman. Pretty soon it was 1913, then 20-19, and eventually the Vikings tied the set at 21-21. Finally Emily Kutch blasted a kill and Brooke Wieland and Taylor Shook teamed up for a block that gave the Vikings a 26-24 win. They went on to a 3-1 victory over the Wildcats, earning a spot in today’s (Nov. 3) District Final against Thornapple Kellogg who beat Ionia 3-0 in the second semifinal at Wayland Thursday. The Vikings beat the Wildcats by the scores of 26-24, 20-25, 25-22, 25-20. They fell behind big in the second set too, trailing 17-6, and nearly came back thanks to a big service run by Sunshine Young, which pulled her team as close as 23-18. “We were very tight, very up tight,” Rowland said. “Being number one, seven seniors, I couldn’t calm them down at first, but when they calm down they do amazing things.” “They know point by point, by God, you’ve got to give us your best. They did some good things, at very crucial times.” Lakewood broke a 19-19 tie in the third set, with Wieland setting up Charlie Smith for a big kill. It was back to back tips for points by Kutch that broke a 16-16 tie in the fourth set, and Young added a couple of aces to help the Vikings pull away. Davis had a huge night attacking for the Vikings, finishing with 21 kills. Kutch added 15. Wieland had 39 assists to go with her five kills and 16 digs. 77572202 77572193 Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads Beth Tingley and the Viking defense along the back line responded to play well after a shaky start. Tingley finished with 24 digs. Kutch ended up with 11, as well as a teamhigh three blocks and three aces. “We knew they’ve been a powerhouse for a long time,” said Wayland Union head coach Kim Getty. “They built a program. We did everything we could to prepare, did a lot of scouting, a lot of dedicated practices to play against them, and had a game plan. They executed it well tonight, it just came down to who was going to hit the last ball in. That’s tough.” The Wildcats got 14 kills each from Krissy Dill on the outside and Haley Obetts in the middle. Alli Getty added 12 kills. Obetts and Getty did a solid job of limiting the Vikings in the middle at the net. Obetts, the Wildcats’ only senior, finished with seven blocks. Dill also led her team in digs with 18. Rachel Vanderbaan and Sam Merren each played well for Wayland, finishing with 16 digs each. Sam Geivett had 46 assists. Vanderbaan and Merren had four aces each. It was the first tough match of the postseason for the Vikings, after a 3-0 win over Hastings in the district opener Tuesday. “I feel like once we start getting it going, we always want to do better do more,” said Davis. “Our goal is always beat them by more, so I’m sure that will play a big role Saturday as well as revenge if TK comes through.” The Vikings wanted to beat Thornapple Kellogg by more last year in the district finals, but were pushed to five games by the Trojans. TK did advance to Saturday’s district final. The Trojans didn’t have much trouble topping Ionia in the district semifinals Thursday, scoring a 25-13, 25-23, 25-12 victory. Sydney LeMay had 12 kills for the Trojans, while Nicole Schondelmayer had six and Jessica Ziccarello had five. Crystal Smith led the Trojans in digs with ten. Alaina Pohl added nine, Lark eight and Jessica Morgan seven. Pohl also passed up 27 assists. TK got everyone involved against the Bulldogs. Holly Dahlke had four assists and a couple of nice attacks. Erin Scheidel came off the bench to knock a couple of aces. TK head coach Patty Pohl thought after Thursday’s match that her team could absolutely compete with the top ranked team in the state in the district final, if they played better than they did in the second set against Ionia. “That second game, they just were too relaxed,” said coach Pohl. “That middle game never should have been 25-23, and that’s what sets us apart from these other teams. They’re just not consistent. That doesn’t mean we can’t be on Saturday, but I hope they are.” BOWLING SCORES 77572190 77572196 77572199 Sunday Night Mixed Comebacks 91; Street Bowlers 19; You’re Up NShit 15; H2O 14; Sunday Snoozers 13; Straightliners 12; Heath Gang 5. Women’s good games and series - M. Daniels 187-530; J. Rice 201-492; A. Hubbell 161-464. Men’s good games and series - A.Miller 257-656; B. Rentz 242-648; B. Hubbell 214577; C. Santana 201-549; J. Shoebridge 181; B. Heath 164; S. Jewell 162; J. Craven 159. Tuesday Trios Washking 31-9; Sam 30-10; CB’s 22-18; Look Ins. 21-19; Classic Trio 19-21; Team Turkey 19-21; Coleman Ins. 18-18; Lu’s Team 15.5-20.5; Blair Landscaping 13.5-27.5; Ghost Team 0-40. High Game - Tammy D. 191; Paula R. 190; Sandi 180. High Series - Tammy D. 554; Paula R. 574; Shirlee V. 480. Monday Mixerettes Dewey’s Auto Body 30-6; Dean’s Dolls 2412; Kent Oil 22-14; Creekside Growers 1719; Nashville Chiropractic 14-22. Good Games & Series: T. Redman 143; C. Hurless 192-449; N. Potter 166-455; K. Fowler 234-553; P. Fowler 169-456; M. Rodgers 167; K. Eberly 186-541; V. Carr 189; S. Nash 162; D. Anders 178-491; E. Ulrich 161; P. Shellington 137-361. Senior Citizens Sun Risers 24-12; Butterfingers 21.5-14.5; M&M’s 21-15; Usedtobe #1 19-17; King Pins 19-17; Three Gals & A Guy 18-18; Ward’s Friends 18-18; Just Having Fun 15.5-20.5; Kuempel 14-22; Early Risers 10-26. Women’s good games and series: Y. Markley 139; E. Ulrich 169; G. Meaney 173; B. Maker 170. Men’s good games and series: J. Miller 178-515; J. Kleinbrink 155-450; P. Gasper 233-569; W. Talsma 190-503; R. McDonald 228-603; M. Saldivar 188-511; L. Brandt 224567; W. Mallekoote 161-425; H. Gibson 161; G. Waggoner 188-480. Wed PM Court Side 27-9; Boniface Construction 2214; Hair Care 21-15; Eye & ENT 20-16; Delton Suds 17-19. Good games & series: S. Stevens 138-391; Y. Cheeseman 160; E. Ulrich 179-464; G. Meaney 177-450; J. Shurlow 149-401; L. Elliston 187-479. Sat Majors (Youth League) Walking Dead 11.5-4.5; Grimm Reapers 115; Kit Kats 10-6; Leones 8-8; Saxons 5.510.5. Boy’s good games & series: W. Arnold 188; J. Ulrich 134; K. Kavanagh 140. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 8, 2012 — Page 15 Vikes go for first win in three tries against FHE by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Four teams ranked in the top ten in the state in Class B entered play in the regional tournament hosted by Thornapple Kellogg High School Tuesday. Two are left - No. 1 and No. 3. Lakewood, ranked first in the state in Class B, will look to advance to the Class B state quarterfinals when it takes on Forest Hills Eastern in Middleville tonight at 6 p.m. The top ranked Vikings have just four losses all season long, but two of those came against the Hawks they’ll face tonight. The Lakewood girls fell 2-1 to the Hawks once in two different tournaments at East Kentwood High School throughout the course of the season. “The one thing we have to do is outhustle them,” said Lakewood head coach Kellie Rowland. “We seriously have to outhustle them. We have to get into our offense. We went one set with them 31-29, so it has always been, we’ll kill them and then they’ll beat us. We’ve never played three out of five sets. It’s always been at a tournament, two our of three, and we’ve gone three every time. It’s been tight all the way.” The Vikings are one step further than they went in the state tournament a year ago, thanks to their 25-21, 25-21, 19-25, 24-26, 15-5 regional semifinal victory over No. 6 Holland Christian Tuesday in Middleville. “It feels good,” said Lakewood senior Emily Kutch. “People keep saying its our year to win it all, so we’re just trying to do our best to do that.” Kutch and teammate Olivia Davis blasted cross-court kills off sets from teammate The Vikings get fired up as Olivia Davis is introduced before the start of Tuesday’s Class B Regional Semifinal against Holland Christian at Thornapple Kellogg High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Brooke Wieland to score the first two points of the fifth set against the Maroons, and after a back and forth semifinal someone finally started dominating. Holland Christian head coach Katie Harvey used each of her two time-outs in the first eight points, a stretch in which the Vikings built a 7-1 lead. “We passed the ball. If you pass the ball, errors don’t happen. If you don’t pass the ball you can’t get everybody in the offense,” said Rowland. She credited libero Beth Tingley stepping up her game. “That’s what made the difference in the fifth set. She pulled it together and it was a fairly easy set to win,” Rowland said. Tingley had a team-high 24 digs in the match. While the Vikings’ passing improved, the Maroons’ suffered “I totally thought we had the momentum,” said Harvey, “and we know what we have do in fifth games. We’ve been in a lot of them this season, but we just got too emotional, and had too much adrenaline. We just fell apart.” Kutch had 18 kills and five blocks and Davis added 11 kills. Vikings top TK for district title again Lakewood’s varsity volleyball team shows off its district championship trophy after scoring a 3-1 victory over Thornapple Kellogg in the Class B District Final at Wayland Union High School Saturday. Team members are (front from left) Emily Kutch, Brooke Wieland, Olivia Davis, (back) coach Kellie Rowland, Beth Tingley, Taylor Vantland, Charlie Smith, Madison Neustifter, Taylor Shook, Sunshine Young, Jordan Kietzman, Gracie Shellenbarger, Vanessa Reynhout and Karly Morris. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Lakewood’s varsity volleyball team defeated Thornapple Kellogg for the second fall in a row in the Class B District Finals. The Trojans pushed the Vikings to five sets a year ago, but Saturday at Wayland Union High School TK managed to steal just one set from the top ranked team in the state. Lakewood earned a spot in this week’s Class B Regional Tournament in Middleville by outscoring the Trojans 25-17, 20-25, 2511, 25-8. Passing troubles hurt the Trojans much of the morning, especially on the serve receive. Lakewood’s Olivia Davis had six aces in the three sets. Brooke Wieland added three and Emily Kutch two. “Without the passing, we were not able to run our offense as usual,” said Thornapple Kellogg head coach Patty Pohl. The Vikings did their best on the other side of the net to limit the offense the Trojans did get going. They focused on taking away the Trojans’ attack through the middle. Vanessa Reynhout had six blocks, that head coach Kellie Rowland said “changed the game.” Wieland also had four blocks to go with her 38 assists. Many of those passes went to Kutch and Davis. Kutch led her team with 14 kills and Davis had ten. Reynhout finished with four kills. In the back defensively, the Vikings got 14 digs from Beth Tingley and 11 from Kutch. Jordan Kietzman and Wieland added six digs each. Sydney LeMay found enough space at the net to lead the Trojans with nine kills and nine blocks. Jessica Ziccarello added nine kills for TK too. Setter Alaina Pohl finished with 25 assists and eight digs. “I had an outstanding group of young ladies, who have great integrity and character,” said coach Pohl. “What more could a coach ask for?” “That's definitely what I told them after we lost. I said nothing about the match itself, except that sometimes when you want something really badly, it’s hard to just relax and play with confidence.” TK ends the year with a 44-12-2 record. Lakewood’s Emily Kutch (left) winds up to blast an attack past the block of Holland Christian’s Alyssa Garvelink and Hope Leppink early on in the second set Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Wieland helped out the defensive effort with 17 digs and also had 34 assists. Freshman Charlie Smith did a solid job of passing while Wieland was helping out in the back. Lakewood nearly avoided the fifth set, taking a 23-21 lead, but the Hawks rallied with a couple of kills and an ace by big junior middle Alyssa Garvelink. Garvelink finished with 28 kills, but Rowland was pleased with the defense her team played against her at the net forcing her to hit from the right side and getting hands on attacks that allowed teammates to pass the ball up. Holland Christian also got 39 assists from setter hope Leppink and 20 digs from libero Michelle Busscher. “Everybody played well as a team,” Kutch said. “We knew we had to take it one point at a time. We just brought it all together.” Forest Hills Eastern brought it all together in its semifinal as well, topping No. 9 South Christian 25-19, 25-17, 25-16 in its regional semifinal in Middleville Tuesday. “Our young girls have matured (since the last meeting with FHE), and we have probably more young girls than they do,” Rowland said. “That’s a key for us, that everybody comes in and plays hard and does their very best. That’s what we’ve got to have. We’ve been No. 1 and No. 2 back and forth all year.” The winner of Thursday’s regional final advances to the Class B State Quarterfinal, Thornapple Kellogg’s Nicole Schondelmayer (left) and Lakewood’s Vanessa Reynhout meet above the net during Saturday’s Class B District Final at Wayland Union High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Lakewood improved to 48-4 with the win. The district championship is the 21st for the Vikings in the past 24 varsity volleyball seasons. 77571580 Lakewood’s Jordan Kietzman sets herself to pass a Holland Christian serve during Tuesday’s Class B Regional Semifinal in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) which will be played at Allegan Tuesday at 7 p.m. �Page 16 — Thursday, November 8, 2012 — The Hastings Banner News on M-43/M-37 project is good and bad Traffic moving and barrels on the side of the North Broadway waiting to be picked up by construction crews Tuesday morning. This former Bank of America branch in Marshall is expected to be the newest branch of Hastings City Bank. Hastings City Bank expanding to Marshall Construction barrels funnel traffic on Green Street east of South Broadway to allow workers to work on sewers near the intersection. It’s a good news/bad news situation for Hastings, according to Michigan Department of Transportation communications representative Nick Schirripa. First the good news: The project is 99 percent complete. Paving is finished, barrels have been removed, and traffic is now flowing freely on the reconfigured portion of M43 from State Street north to the city limits. Schirripa said the only thing that needs to be finished on that portion of the project is a lit- tle sidewalk, ramp and seeding work. Now for the bad news: the M-37 portion of the project will not be completed until the spring of 2013. Contractors have barrels in place on Green Street between South Broadway and Hanover Street while crews do intersection and sewer work. However, due to the lateness of the season and falling temperatures, that portion of the project will not be repaved until the spring. However, Schirripa said the utility and intersection work is slated to be completed and barrels removed within another week. “We’ll have everything buttoned up before the snow flies, and the road will be open until the spring,” he said. Schirripa said the entire project was scheduled to be completed by mid-November, but engineers and contractors were slowed when they ran into problems with underground utilities on the M-43 portion of the project. HCB Financial Corp. announced Wednesday plans to open the seventh branch office of its subsidiary Hastings City Bank in Marshall. Pending regulatory approval, the office is scheduled to open in first quarter 2013. The company recently completed the acquisition of a former bank branch facility located at 124 W. Michigan Ave., in downtown Marshall. The facility served as a branch office of Bank of America until September. “This investment demonstrates a further commitment to our community banking model that has served us well for 126 years,” said Mark A. Kolanowski, president and CEO of HCB Financial Corp. “This acquisition expands our geographic footprint and provides an important opportunity for us to enhance our growth.” “The availability of this particular property created a unique opportunity for us to not only enter the Marshall market, but to enter in a historically significant banking facility dating back to 1930 that is front and center in the community,” added Kolanowski. “This is a fantastic opportunity for our organization. We were drawn to Marshall by its wonderful past and promising future and are excited to bring our brand of community banking to the area.” HCB Financial Corp. is a privately held bank holding company headquartered in Hastings. Hastings City Bank offices are located in Hastings, Middleville, Nashville Bellevue, Caledonia and Wayland. As of Sept. 30, the company had total assets of $257 million. ELECTION RESULTS, continued from page 11 Woodland Township Clerk Stanton REP Write-in 786 12 Woodland Township Treasurer Potter REP 823 Write-in 9 Woodland Township Trustee DeMaagd REP Neustifter REP Write-in 727 765 12 Yankee Springs Township Supervisor Englerth REP 1,774 Write-in 64 Yankee Springs Township Clerk Lippert REP 1,770 Write-in 55 Yankee Springs Township Treasurer Jerkatis REP 1,795 Write-in 43 Yankee Springs Township Trustee Campbell REP 1,526 Cook REP 1,439 Vandenberg DEM 936 Write-in 17 District 5 Circuit Court Judge McDowell 16,723 Write-in 272 Present your message to over 6,000 weekly paid readers of The Hastings Banner in our Annual &HOHEUDWH�WKH 6HDVRQ� 6XSSOHPHQW It’s the most wonderful time of the year for retailers. Make the most of your advertising dollars this season by promoting what you have to offer everyone to make their holiday a special one. In this special section you will find great holiday decorating tips, holiday recipes, gift giving ideas, and much more. 3XEOLFDWLRQ�'DWH��1RYHPEHU��������� Ad Deadline: November 16th, 2012 Ads space will be available in standard sizes: Full page . . . . . . . . . .$300.00 Half Page . . . . . . . . .$180.00 Quarter Page . . . . . . .$90.00 Eighth Page . . . . . . .$50.00 Add spot color for $50.00 • Full color for $75.00 Contact your J-AdSalesperson at 269.945.9554 Probate Court Judge Doherty Write-in 56B District Court Judge Schipper Write-in 16,594 270 16,031 286 Dowling Library Trustee - Baltimore Johnson 502 Kingma 495 VanDenburg 440 Write-in 5 Dowling Library Trustee - Johnstown Hart * Sidney * Trongo * Write-in * Freeport Village President H. Andrus Write-in 141 2 Freeport Village Clerk Write-in 30 Freeport Village Treasurer Kunde Write-in 135 2 Freeport Village Trustee Andrews L. Andrus Misko 99 Write-in 93 121 Van Noord Lytle Write-in 646 671 47 Nashville Village Trustee Hartwell Scramlin Zoerman Write-in 295 311 270 18 Woodland Village President Forman Write-in Woodland Village Trustee Denker Duits Martin Write-in 143 8 113 121 117 11 Woodland Village Trustee partial-term Kennedy 59 Steward 101 Write-in 1 Delton Kellogg Board of Education Bever 2,008 Hook 1,462 Martin 1,609 Write-in 25 Hastings Board of Education Slaughter Wierenga Williams Write-in 3,913 3,407 2,840 68 Thornapple Kellogg Board of Education Bryan 1,144 Essenberg 1,683 Haney 2,021 Ordway 3,602 Wissner 1,109 Write-in 78 State Proposal 1 Yes No 11,939 13,268 State Proposal 2 Yes No 7,675 17,964 State Proposal 3 Yes No 6,961 18,669 State Proposal 4 Yes No 7,800 17,712 State Proposal 5 Yes No 8,005 17,404 State Proposal 6 Yes No 9,743 15,833 Rutland Township Road Proposal Yes 760 No 1,217 5 Freeport Village Trustee partial-term Lobdell 75 Scholma 74 Sensing 74 Wierckz 72 Write-in 9 Middleville Village President Pullen 874 Write-in 28 Middleville Village Trustee Endsley Schellinger 749 681 Hastings Board of Education partial-term Hart 5,279 Write-in 81 Thornapple Township Road Proposal Yes 1,268 No 2,483 Lakewood Board of Education+ Gibbs 1,067 Potter 1,242 Delton Kellogg School Millage Proposal Yes 2,295 No 1,544 Maple Valley Board of Education+ Burd 837 Faurot 642 Filter 438 Green 677 Heinze 830 Write-in 20 * No official results as of Wednesday afternoon. + Barry County results only; does not include results from other counties within the district. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-11-15.pdf b05e1b82c47b20dc5e92a49c2fd52fff PDF Text Text Man sentenced in bar-fight death Congress could take lesson from veterans Fall All-Barry County athletes announced See Story on Page 10 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Pages 12-13 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 45 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 City approves six-month trial of extended parking time limit NEWS BRIEFS Great American Smokeout is today The American Cancer Society is marking the 37th Great American Smokeout Nov. 15 by encouraging smokers to make a plan to quit, or to quit smoking today. Research shows that while quitting is difficult for most tobacco users, people who use tobacco can increase their success in quitting with help. Quitters are most successful when using a combination of therapies, including resources such as nicotine replacement, counseling, self-help materials, and a strong support network of family and friends. The Barry-Eaton District Health Department’s monthly Quit Smoking Workshop. This free program is a no-pressure, one-time workshop that shows how to be smoke-free. For more information on this or other smoking-cessation programs, call 517-541-2624. The American Cancer Society has tools available to help with quitting. For more information, call the American Cancer Society, 800-227-2345 or visit www.cancer.org. Reservations, volunteers needed for Thanksgiving dinner A tradition will continue Thursday when the First United Methodist Church, 209 W. Green St., Hastings, again hosts its annual Thanksgiving Day Dinner for the community from 1 to 3 p.m. Normally 20 to 25 volunteers help with the dinner, which is enjoyed by about 200 people. The dinner is open to anyone who makes a reservation and a free-will donation. Call the church, 269-945-9574, or Margaret Hollenbeck, 269-945-4701, to make a reservation.. Volunteers interested in helping with preparations in the days leading up to the event should call Marcia Szumowski, 269948-2169. Conservation district board has two open seats Two positions on the Barry Conservation District Board of Directors will be up for election at the March 2013 annual meeting. The positions are each four-year terms, with those elected serving through spring 2017. District seats are non-partisan. Eligible candidates are residents of Barry County who are 18 years of age or older and can show proof of residency with one identification card. Additionally, a candidate must complete a nominating petition by obtaining signatures from five Barry County residents age 18 or older. Nominating petitions are available at the Barry Conservation District office, 1611 S. Hanover, Suite 105, Hastings (Secretary of State building). All petitions must be completed and submitted to the district office by 4 p.m. Friday, Jan. 11, 2013. The Barry Conservation District Board meets on the third Friday of each month at 7:30 a.m. in the Village View Conference Room at Pennock Hospital in Hastings. Due to Thanksgiving, the next scheduled meeting is Friday, Dec. 7. All meetings are open to the public. For more information about the Barry Conservation District and the role of its board of directors, visit the district office; view the website, www.barrycd.org; or call 269-948-8056. PRICE 75¢ Thursday, November 15, 2012 Vikings advance to Class B volleyball semi-finals Lakewood’s varsity volleyball team huddles together to celebrate its regional championship after topping Forest Hills Eastern in five sets Thursday in the Class B Regional Final at Thornapple Kellogg High School. The Vikings take on Dearborn Divine Child in the second Class B Semifinal at Kellogg Arena in Battle Creek this evening at 7:30 p.m. (Photo by Brett Bremer) by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Starting Tuesday, Jan. 1, those who wish to shop and dine in downtown Hastings will have an extra hour to do so before they have to move their vehicles — at least for six months. After a lengthy discussion, the Hastings City Council approved a request from the Hastings Downtown Development Authority to increase parking in the two-hour lots to three hours during a six-month trial period. Parking limits will remain the same for on-street parking and all other lots. DDA chairperson Patty Woods presented the request on behalf of the DDA. “We spent a lot of time over the last few years, trying to aim at getting better parking, allowing people to stay a little longer because we are really a draw now,” she said. “We do have nice restaurants. It’s really tough to eat at a restaurant and shop; or shop and eat at a restaurant. You can do one or the other within two hours pretty well. But, if you are here at all, any length of time ...” Woods said that while the first ticket for exceeding the two hour limit is only a warning and no monetary fine is involved, it isn’t conducive for people from out of town to plan a return visit. “I have seen this myself,” she said. “It does leave sort of a bad taste in their mouth.” The motion was approved by a 5-3 vote with trustees Don Bowers, Dave Jasperse and Al Jarvis dissenting. Bowers said he objected to the DDA asking for frequent changes in the city’s parking policy. Jarvis did not state a reason for his objection. During the discussion, Jasperse said the issue is not so much the time limit as the availability of parking, which would improve if all downtown merchants and employees would park in the all-day lots and leave the parking spaces closer to downtown businesses for customers. Woods agreed that some merchants and their employees are part of the problem. “We know we have some violators among our own merchants and merchants’ employees,” she said. “Part of that is an education thing. We are constantly looking at something we can do to make that better because that is part of the problem we have.” Hastings Community Development Coordinator John Hart agreed that some mer- chants and employees rotate their vehicles throughout the day in the two-hour lots and that behavior is not likely to change unless the city and the DDA develop policies to curb that behavior. “We know we have some violators among our own merchants and merchants’ employees. Part of that is an education thing. We are constantly looking at something we can do to make that better because that is part of the problem we have.” DDA chairperson Patty Woods “This is just really a test period to see if a three-hour lot accommodates our visitors from out of town,” he said. “If it doesn’t work, we go back [to the two-hour time limit]. If it does work, we’d like to talk about additional policy to remove those chronic violators out of the parking lots and into the all-day parking lots and streets which are two blocks from downtown.” Hart said that, so far, the DDA has taken a three-step approach to dealing with the merchant and employee parking downtown: Education, enforcement and provision of parking spaces. Hastings City Manager Jeff Mansfield said a parking task force was created five years ago to look into the growing problem, and the increased parking time limit is only one step among many, rather than a final solution. “We need to see, progressively, how this impacts [parking],” Mansfield said. “You don’t want to make all your changes at once because then you don’t know, really, what generated what impact. So, we make this one change, see what the outcome is, then contin- See PARKING, page 6 Election transition alters county board agenda by Doug VanderLaan Editor Lame duck status took hold at Tuesday’s Barry County Board of Commissioners meeting and all eight members — even the five who’ll be departing with the upcoming new year — felt its effect. After having interviewed and recommended for approval the appointment of nine citizens to county board committees at last week’s committee of the whole meeting, the commission tabled the action Tuesday, following direction from Board Chair Craig Stolsonburg and County Administrator Michael Brown. “This current board does not have the authority to appoint members to terms that begin in the next board’s term,” explained Brown. “The process is designed so that the current board does the advertising, does the interviewing and includes the new commissioners in that interview, which they attended. It then gets held until the new board gets seated, and one of the first items of business is to appoint those members. “Now, the new board could choose to accept the recommendations and appoint those folks. They could choose not to accept the recommendations and not appoint those folks and do something different. The thought is that, as long as everyone (new and present commissioners) is included, they’re familiar and, at an early meeting in the new year, they can appoint those folks and there’ll be no interruption in service.” Brown went on to explain that the advertising, interviewing and appointment process involves as much as two months’ time. To delay that process until after the seating of a new commission would create a significant hardship for committees awaiting the appoint- ment of new members. The Barry County Road Commission, with three members, was used as an example. With the expiration of Chairman Frank Fiala’s term Dec. 31, a delay of re-appointment — for which Fiala interviewed at last week’s committee of the whole meeting — will be inevitable pending approval from the new board at an early January meeting. Without having conducted the interview and a present board’s recommendation, the delay could leave the road commission with just two members until March. The other appointment recommendations made last week are Sharon Zebrowski to the Charlton Park Village and Museum Board and the re-appointments of Janet Lydy, Dave Logan and Rick Moore to the same board. Also affected are the re-appointments of David Tripp to the Barry County Building Authority, Kenneth Radant to the Barry County Transit Board, and Don Bowers and Robert Nelson to the Barry County Commission on Aging Board. The newly constituted board, which will consist of incumbents Stolsonburg, Ben Geiger and Howard “Hoot” Gibson and the newly elected Jim DeYoung, Jim Dull, Jon Smelker and Joyce Snow, can take immediate action on the appointments at the new board’s organizational meeting or at a special meeting following its opening committee of the whole meeting scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 8. “That means new commissioners could have three meetings the first day,” cracked Geiger. In other business, the board: • Approved an increase of $300 in cash drawer funds for the county clerk’s office, allowing audit-recommended efficiency in making change for office customers. • Approved home repair bid funds of $29,580 to McKeough Brothers LLC for a home at 435 W. Clinton St. in Hastings and $34,358 to Brian Appel Builders for a home at 11486 Lighthouse Court in Middleville as part of the Barry County Home Improvement program funded by a grant from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority. • Approved the amendment of the 2013 Child Care Fund Budget to accommodate the contribution of the Community Mental Health Office to assist with the Family Court’s “wrap-around” financial assistance program. • Approved the 2013 contract with the Michigan Supreme Court administrative office for administering grant funds to support the new District Court Adult Drug Court. • Approved a similar contract with the Supreme Court’s administrative office for funds to administer the Circuit Court Adult Drug Court. Funds for the circuit court program will be supplemented by a grant from the Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance program. • Approved the contract renewal of Debra Kruse, an instructor in the Office of Community Corrections. • Approved an application for additional credited service allowing outgoing Prosecutor Tom Evans to purchase five years of credited service through the Municipal Employees’ Retirement System. • Awarded a five-year auditing services contract to Rehmann Robson for annual fees ranging from $30,200 in fiscal year 2012 to $34,000 for the year ending in December 2016. • Approved the 2013 health insurance plan for county employees s recommended by the Barry County Healthcare Cost Containment Committee. • Approved the appointment of Fred Kibler to fill the remainder of a three-year term that began Jan. 1 on the agricultural preservation board. • Approved transfers and disbursements totaling $45,199 in claims, $8,400,250 in prepaid invoices, and $8,050 in commissioner payroll. In response to a concern from Geiger about the unusually high pre-paid invoice figure, Brown responded that $5,667,439 was a payment from the county’s trust and agency fund, over $4 million of which was forwarded to the state as a collection on the 6-mill state education tax, assessed as a property tax each summer. Additionally large payments of $1.3 million went to the Thornapple Manor Fund and $797,000 to the Thornapple Manor Building Authority Fund. • Received a request from Baltimore Township resident Don Bradstreet that the commission place his request for appointment to a Climate Adaptation Planning Committee on an upcoming county commission agenda. The proposed committee would work with the MSU Extension office and climate scientists to accumulate data for a summary report of community recommendations to meet longterm climate change. Bradstreet also informed commissioners that he attended a Nov. 9 meeting of the Barry County Solid Waste Management Committee which failed to produce a quorum of committee members. Bradstreet urged commissioners to consider means by which they could help ensure quorum attendance at committee meetings. The county board will meet next for a committee of the whole session Tuesday, Nov. 20, in the chamber meeting room at the county courthouse beginning at 9 a.m. �Page 2 — Thursday, November 15, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Veterans honored during special ceremony at Magnum Care Jason McClish of Heartland Hospice leads a Wednesday assembly to honor veterans at Magnum Care in the Pledge of Allegiance. In what organizers hope will become an annual event, Magnum Care in Hastings took time Wednesday to honor its 17 residents who served in the United States Armed Forces. “You endured hardship and you were willing to risk your life for our freedom,” said Jason McClish, account manager of Heartland Hospice, an affiliate organization to the Hastings-based home. After leading approximately 30 attendees in a recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance and then reciting a special poem for veterans, McClish assisted in a special “Veterans Pinning Ceremony” in which veteran residents received a special pin from Activity Director Carla McKelvey and a commemorative certificate. “It’s a good way to support residents and families on a day that we might not otherwise be here,” summed up McClish. Donald Moffet receives his certificate of armed services honor from Carla McKelvey during the first annual Veterans Pinning Ceremony at Magnum Care Wednesday. Magnum Care staff member Veanise VanderMeer helped assemble an honorary retrospective of residents’ service to their country. Assistant prosecutor may be called as witness in Curtis trial U.S. Air Force veteran Jack Fouts poses with his daughter Debbie Williams (left) and his wife of 59 years, Nancy, during the Veterans Pinning Ceremony at Magnum Care Wednesday. Burke Houghtalin Jr. served with the U.S. Army’s 10th Armored Tank Division in World War II. Helping honor his service are son Burke Houghtalin II, and grandson, Burke Houghtalin III. by David DeDecker Staff Writer In a glimpse into the possible defense of Chad Curtis, attorney David Dodge brought clinical and forensic psychologist Katherine Okla, Ph.D. to the stand Nov. 14 to establish her as an expert witness in Barry County Circuit Court. Curtis, a former Major League Baseball player, is charged with six criminal sexual conduct acts involving teenage girls attending Lakewood schools. Dodge’s questions of Okla focused on her expert knowledge in the suggestability of teenagers and how teenage perception can be altered by an authority figure. He questioned Okla about peer pressure and adolescent selfaggrandizement. Dodge wanted to know, in Okla’s opinion, if bringing a teenage girl into a government building and being questioned by the assistant prosecuting attorney would persuade the girl to change her testimony. The defense attorney will possibly call Barry County Assistant Prosecutor Chris Ellsworth to the stand on the matter. Ellsworth did interview one of Curtis’ alleged victims, and Dodge contends the girl’s story was significantly changed after Ellsworth interviewed her. Ellsworth told Judge Amy McDowell he failed to see how Okla being qualified as an expert witness in the Curtis case was relevant. He said the girl may have remembered more about the alleged acts in subsequent interviews, but the facts remained the same. Dodge countered by telling the court that Okla’s expert testimony was vital to a fair trial for his client. After nearly three hours of the hearing Wednesday, McDowell found Dr. Okla to be a reliable expert witness, and within certain court-established parameters, her testimony was relevant to the case. McDowell then granted Dodge’s motion to qualify Okla as an expert witness in Curtis’ trial, scheduled for January. Alex Henry receives his honorary veterans certificate from Magnum Care Activity Director Carla McKelvey. Man convicted in Barry County hangs himself in Kentucky While detained in the Madison County Detention Center in Kentucky on a parole violation, Charles Franklin Hoffman reportedly took his life Nov. 10 by hanging. Hoffman, 28, was sentenced in Barry County Circuit Court March 15, 2007, for operating under the influence of alcohol on Powell Road and causing a serious impairment or incapacitating injury to another person in an automobile accident. Charges of felonious driving and operating with expired license were dropped. Hoffman was sentenced the same day for delivery or manufacture of marijuana. Judge James Fisher sentenced Hoffman to 36 to 120 months on the driving charge and 29 to 48 months on the substance charge. As of press time the Michigan Department of Corrections did not respond with Hoffman’s parole violation or the reason he was in a Kentucky jail. Drivers should be on the lookout for deer More than 53,000 accidents in Michigan last year involved deer, and 918 car-deer collisions were reported in Barry County resulting in 23 injuries. Motorists are encouraged to look beyond the beam of their headlights for eyes of deer that may be near the road. Trying to dodge a deer is not a good idea, said Sheriff Dar Leaf. “The best way to avoid a deer-car collision is to slow your car down, flash your headlights and or blow your horn to try and scare the animal,” he said. Deer often move erratically, and swerving may cause loss of vehicle control, resulting in injury or even death, he said. Deer travel together. If one deer is seen the chances are others are also around so caution is recommended. “Remember to heed deer-crossing signs,” Leaf said. “If you do hit a deer, make sure you report it to your local police or the sheriff’s office.” For more safety tips visit the Michigan Sheriffs Association website at www.misheriff.org. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 15, 2012 — Page 3 Hurricane Sandy relief heading to New Jersey by Shari Carney Staff Writer Several shelters in New Jersey will be receiving donated items from family, friends, staff and students at Maple Valley Schools and the Hastings area, thanks to an appeal placed by Crystal Pash, former New Jersey resident. “The neighborhoods I called home have been reduced to rubble, sand, destruction and debris,” said Pash who lived in Seaside Heights and Belmar, N.J., from 1987 to 1993. Damages and power outages have forced many people from their homes. Shelters have a variety of needs that are changing daily, said Pash, who is in contact with several shelters, including one for animals. Dangers of potential gas explosions that could result from a compromised gas system have caused many people to evacuate who otherwise tried to wait out the power outage, said Pash. Her husband, Chris Pash, is a social studies teacher at Maple Valley High School. Students have been bringing items to his classroom, and the high school’s leadership class also is participating. People also have donated money. Maple Valley teacher Hillary Leatherman took junior high her class shopping to purchase paper goods, toiletries and non-perishable food. Lynn Osborn-Jones, who lives in Virginia, is one of Crystal Pash’s best friends from their days living in New Jersey. Osborn-Jones has an elderly aunt and grandmother who live in some of the hardest hit areas, said Pash. “This whole thing started with Lynn and I on the phone, simply trying to process the degree of devastation done to the area we call ‘home’ and trying to figure out what we could do to make things a little better,” she said. “I contacted a few friends, sent out a couple [of] Facebook posts asking friends to do what they could, whether it be a donation to the Red The devastation in Seaside Heights, N.J., devastation is evident after the wake of Hurricane Sandy. Crystal Pash of Hastings, former resident of Seaside Heights, is leading a relief effort to take needed items to shelters assisting those victimized by the hurricane. (Photo courtesy of Associated Press) Cross, a prayer, a hug for someone whose loved ones were going through this, or whatever they felt lead to do. From there, Lynn and I started thinking we could do more.” Without a plan or any knowledge on organizing a relief effort, the two friends focused on the needs of those who were braving the devastation. “It’s about all the people who desperately need help and about the generosity and kindness of everyone who’s offered a measure of support. I never expected this many people to get involved,” she said. “This is an amazing community of people, and I think it’s a good thing for everyone to know that.” Her former co-workers at Pennock Pharmacy in Hastings have proven instrumental in providing donations, said Pash, who had worked at the pharmacy for 10 years before leaving last November to care for her mother. “Friends from Nashville, Tenn., are helping, as well as friends as far away as Germany. It really is amazing,” said Pash, adding that her church, Nashville Baptist, is promoting the effort, as well. The Pashes plan to drive out before Thanksgiving, meet up with Osborn-Jones Students from Hillary Leatherman’s class at Maple Valley High School shopping for victims of Hurricane Sandy include (from left) Amanda Waddle, Marley Grinage, Alexis Guernsey, Adam Ryan, Danielle Struble and Jordan Reynolds. Social Studies Teacher Chris Pash will be transporting the items to shelters in New Jersey, where his wife, Crystal, lived from 1987 to 1993. (Photo by Hillary Leatherman) and spend most of the weekend making deliveries. “The Jersey Shore is not really what the TV portrays. That has given a lot of people a bad impression of the area. It really is a wonderful place with incredible people. In that respect, it’s not so dissimilar to here,” she said. The following items have been requested from shelters: personal hygiene and toiletry products, cleaning supplies (including buck- ets and sponges), blankets, new underwear and socks (all sizes, male and female), pet food, cat litter, pet cage liner material, warmers for hands and socks normally used for hunting or fishing, candles, hats, gloves, rubber boots, heavy-duty trash bags, towels, chicken broth, pasta, canned turkey and chicken, soup mixes and shovels. Call Pash, 269-908-9216, for additional information or to help in the relief effort. Gun Lake Tribe member speaks at federal center Hart-Dole-Inouye Federal Center in Battle Creek hosted a program Nov. 6 to share information on local Native American contributions and tribal efforts to help their members and surrounding communities. Defense Logistics Agency employees, contractors and others gathered for the program, which began with an invocation from Ron Komondy, an elder with the Mohawk tribe’s Wolf Clan. His comments were noted in the opening remarks by DLA Logistics Information Service Director Deb Greger who said respect has been a common theme in the Native American events – “respect for the creator, resources, family and others.” Greger, a Battle Creek native, remarked how the observance gave her the chance to learn more about the signs that Native American life in the Pennfield area may date back to the Crusades. Ed Pigeon, vice chairman of the tribal council for the Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi Gun Lake Band, began his remarks as guest speaker by explaining the principle of tribal sovereignty. Pigeon explained how the concept makes each tribe a miniature version of the states that comprise America. “You have your 50 U.S. states; within those you have 500 mini-states, each with its own tribal government and ways of doing things,” Pigeon said. Pigeon has more than 10 years of participation in cultural presentations and teaching activities throughout Michigan and is currently employed as the Gun Lake language and cultural coordinator. His instruction provides language skills through formal classes and in cultural workshops integrating language components. Beside his tribal council duties, Pigeon is also a board member for the Kalamazoo Poverty Reduction Initiative. Before gaming operations started, Pigeon said the funding for tribal programs was all Ron Komondy, an elder with the Mohawk tribe’s Wolf Clan, offers the invocation to help start the program. Estate Planning Workshop Ed Pigeon, vice chairman of the tribal council for the Match-E-BE-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi Gun Lake Band, offers remarks as the guest speaker for Native American Heritage Month. based on grants. With gaming revenues, however, he said all of the money earned goes into Present your message to over 6,000 weekly paid readers of The Hastings Banner in our Annual &HOHEUDWH�WKH 6HDVRQ� 6XSSOHPHQW It’s the most wonderful time of the year for retailers. Make the most of your advertising dollars this season by promoting what you have to offer everyone to make their holiday a special one. In this special section you will find great holiday decorating tips, holiday recipes, gift giving ideas, and much more. 3XEOLFDWLRQ�'DWH��1RYHPEHU��������� Ad Deadline: November 16th, 2012 Ads space will be available in standard sizes: Full page . . . . . . . . . .$300.00 Half Page . . . . . . . . .$180.00 Quarter Page . . . . . . .$90.00 Eighth Page . . . . . . .$50.00 Add spot color for $50.00 • Full color for $75.00 Contact your J-AdSalesperson at 269.945.9554 tribal programs that allow them to do more to help their members with health care, employment and more cultural programs. The 2 percent revenue sharing also allows the tribe to contribute $18 million to local communities. “In Wayland, the school district was able buy iPads for all of their grade school students and end ‘pay-for-play’ in their extracurricular programs,” Pigeon said. Increased revenues also allowed the tribe’s public safety department to grow, which Pigeon said benefits the local communities, as well. Their officer assists agencies in surrounding communities through mutual support agreements, “but they still know all of our children by name.” Michelle Moore, chief of business and administrative services for DLA Installation Support at Battle Creek, thanked Pigeon for his remarks. As she closed the event, Moore reminded everyone how special-emphasis programs share lessons about different cultures. She reminded the audience of former Battle Creek resident Sojourner Truth’s famous comments that, “No one is anything unless everyone is something.” Moore called upon those assembled to dedicate themselves to use special emphasis programs to not only learn about diversity but to commit themselves to supporting each other’s needs like “family.” For more information about the event, call the Equal Employment Opportunity Office, 269-961-4652. Attorney James Fisher, Randy Teegardin CFP, Hastings City Bank, Attorney Stephanie Fekkes, Attorney Chris Matthysse Thursday, November 29, 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. Hastings City Bank Trust and Investment Group is partnering with Law Weathers Attorneys and Counselors to provide an Estate Planning Workshop. Topics covered will include: • Major changes to our estate tax system, scheduled to begin January 1, 2013. Learn about these important changes. • Every estate plan should include basic building blocks. We will discuss these and why they are important. • A once in a lifetime opportunity to take advantage of current gift tax exemptions expires at the end of the year. Learn about this important change. • Long term care can deplete an estate. Learn how proper estate planning can take advantage of Medicaid funding to help avoid this outcome. The workshop will take place in the community room of the Hastings Branch, 150 West Court Street. Attendance is free to the community. Please reserve a seat by calling 269-948-5579. Refreshments will be served. 77572473 �Page 4 — Thursday, November 15, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Camoufowlage Congress could take a lesson from veterans Tery Holly of Lake Odessa took this photo recently of a great blue heron trying to blend in along a channel on Jordan Lake. Holly said the heron seems to live around the nearby swamp and has been a frequent visitor. “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” President John Fitzgerald Kennedy We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom, Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M43 Highway, Hastings 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Please include information such as where and when the photo was taken, who took the photo, and other relevant or anecdotal information. Do you know? Bazaar preparation Although the names are different and the styles have changed, the fundraising and craftiness continue. This looks like a photo promoting an upcoming bazaar. Do you know any of these women? Were they, in fact, promoting a bazaar? If so, for what organization? When? What can you tell us about this photo? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event to reunite the photos with their original clippings or identify photos that may never have been used. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@jadgraphics.com; or call 269-945-9554. Last week’s photo of three men in front of the old city hall/fire station looking at a 1947 Oldsmobile brought in just one call, from Dorotha Cooper. She thought the tall man in the center pointing at the car might be Winston “Windy” Merrick, who once worked at her parents’ State Street business, The Coffee Shop. Merrick also was involved in the American Legion, the draft board and worked for Consumers Power. She didn’t recognize the other two men. Do you? Have you On the 11th hour, of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918 an armistice between Germany and the Allied nations came into effect, so on Nov. 11, 1919, the first Armistice Day was observed. This past week, across the country, people remembered those who served in one of our country’s military branches so that we could remain free. It was 93 years ago, when President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed Armistice Day be held Nov. 11, saying, “To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with lots of pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations.” Each year we celebrate with parades, church services, flag raising and all kinds of special ceremonies. In 1926, the U.S. Congress declared the special day a legal holiday to honor our veterans. But on June 1, 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the bill to make Nov. 11 known as Veterans Day, to honor all service personnel regardless of when or where they served. In 1968, Congress moved Veterans Day to the fourth Monday in October, yet the action caused a lot of confusion since several states disagreed with the change. So, in 1975 President Gerald R. Ford signed the bill that would again designate Veterans Day to be observed each year on Nov. 11. Even today, many people confuse Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Both holidays were meant to recognize the men and women who served in our country’s armed services. Yet, Memorial Day is observed on the last Monday in May, which is set aside as a day for remembering and honoring military personnel who died in the service of their country. Veterans Day was intended to thank and honor all those who served honorably in the military, in wartime and peacetime. It’s easy for us to get caught up in our daily lives, missing the real meaning behind the special day. Currently, there are more than 22 million veterans who have served in our country’s armed forces — many of them returning to private life to serve their own communities. Most of us have a parent, grandparent, sibling or someone else who served or might be still serving. Some of them might be one of the veterans who offered their support when Hurricane Sandy hit the East Coast. So far, hundreds of veterans stepped up to aid families that became victims of the violent storm. They’ve volunteered with donations and a helping hand to help clean up neighborhoods, tear out waterlogged carpet and drywall and to help victims. These men and women are working street-by-street, home-by-home, leading the charge for post-disaster operations. Officials even requested donations during the annual New York Veterans Day parade to help the victims who lost their homes or were trying to get by without electricity. Looking back to President Kennedy, he said the gratitude for veterans should be measured in our actions not just words. Throughout our country’s history, millions have been willing to serve, even if it meant sacrificing their lives. And, many returned after the Gulf War and the Global War on Terror in Iraq and Afghanistan maimed for life. So, why shouldn’t we expect the country’s lawmakers to work together to solve the financial issues that threaten the economic stability of our nation? The election is over — now is the time to set aside the party bickering and get down to the people’s business of solving these issues with some old-fashioned compromise, in the interest of all Americans. Congress returned to work Tuesday to a list of unfinished business left over from last session when they vacated Washington to head home to campaign for their jobs. Now in this lame-duck session, lawmakers will have a number of issues to hammer out along with finding some compromise on a deficit-reduction plan — important work for even the best of situations. According to a report, the United States spends more on its military than the rest of the world combined — and nearly 10 times more than the No. 2 nation, China. Yet if the president and Congress can’t find a way to avoid the fiscal cliff that goes into effect Dec. 31, the military could suffer its biggest single cut in our nation’s history as programs face mandatory reductions created by lawmakers. As part of a deficit-spending agreement last year, Congress and the president agreed to automatic funding cuts if they failed to come up with a plan to cut the deficit by at least $1.2 trillion. Our country’s veterans have been there for us in war, in peacetime and when we’ve faced national tragedies like the recent hurricane. Shouldn’t we expect our lawmakers to show the same level of bravery and dedication to the nation as they search for the solutions that will keep our country financially strong and safe for generations? Fred Jacobs, vice president, J-Ad Graphics met? Karen Heath is co-owner of Secondhand Corners in Hastings. She was a board director for over 15 years with the Barry County Chamber of Commerce and its secretary for “umpteen” years. Heath has volunteered countless hours for the chamber and still works on several committees. She worked on the Downtown Development Authority for 15 years. Heath is currently in her third term on the board with the Barry Community Foundation. In July, she was voted to be chairman of the foundation, and will serve in that capacity over the next couple of years. She has also been an advisor for the foundation’s Youth Advisory Council. Favorite movie: A Susan Sarandon movie called “Dead Man Walking.” It’s a real true testament to forgiveness. Favorite book: I love entrepreneur books. I am in the process of reading Business Model Generation. I love this stuff, but for fun books I have just been through Pillars of the Earth and World without End, massive, epic books. If you could give anything to a person, it would be: Probably compassion. It plays into everything I do, especially in this business. Person you would most like to meet: Jesus Christ. I have a lot of questions for him. If you were president, you would think the government has forgotten that. Best advice ever received: I was very fortunate to be a manufacturing planner and study under [Edward] Deming. He said, ‘If you can’t explain what you are doing in a process, then you don’t know what you’re doing.’ I am still, to this day, putting processes together for everything we do around here. The things that have a good process in place are the things that work. Favorite elementary school memory: My best friend’s mother was my third grade teacher. When she passed away, he found box with a gift and a note from me. It was a handmade pin cushion I had given her in third grade. He told me as a teacher she had tons of stuff, but when she died there wasn’t much of it left. But, that pin cushion was one of the things she had kept. Best thing about Barry County: The people. We are learning every day to work together. That’s what’s so cool about it. It’s a testament to a downtown with no empty store fronts. We weathered the depression well. I really appreciate the forward-thinking people. It’s what drives our train. Karen Heath change: Their fiscal responsibility. I am the money cruncher and a money worrier. My dad always told me to pay your bills first. I Each week, The Banner profiles a person from the community who makes Barry County shine. Do you know someone who should be featured? Send information to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Veterans Day at Fort Custer National Cemetery (Shopper News photo by Shelly Sulser) What do you think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the questions posed each week by accessing our website www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. Last week’s question: The traditional Veterans Day observance falls on the 11th day of the 11th month at 11 a.m. which, this year, will be Sunday and in direct conflict with church services in many communities. Should patriotic ceremonies displace religious observances? 21% 79% Yes No For this week: Despite assurances that EHD, a disease affecting deer, cannot be transmitted to humans, some Michigan hunters have opted to take part in the firearms deer season, which begins today. Will EHD change your hunting plans? q q YES NO �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 15, 2012 — Page 5 State News Roundup U.S. Rep. Justin Amash will host academy night for high school students living in the 3rd Congressional District who are interested in learning more about the U.S. service academies Monday, Nov. 19, from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum in Grand Rapids. Officials from the United States Military Academy at West Point, the United States Air Force Academy, United States Naval Academy, United States Merchant Marine Academy and the United States Coast Guard Academy will provide information about the academies and the application process. Admission to the academies requires a nomination from the vice president, a U.S. senator or a U.S. representative. Students typically begin the admissions process in the spring of their junior year of high school. More information about the academy nomination process can be found at http://amash.house.gov/serving-you/militaryacademy-nominations The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum is located at 303 Pearl Street NW, Grand Rapids. Michigan’s wine grape industry growing The state’s wine grape acreage doubled over the past decade, according to a report recently released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Agricultural Statistics Service. The USDA report is based on the 2011 Michigan Fruit Survey, which collected data from grape growers throughout the state. The complete results of the survey are available online and can be accessed from www.michiganwines.com/fastfacts. Riesling is the most widely planted wine grape, with acreage nearly tripling in the past decade. Michigan producers are creating world-class Rieslings and earned more than 20 top awards in 2012 for Riesling wines in a variety of styles. The International Riesling Foundation lists Michigan among notable global producers. But Riesling isn’t the only star of the survey. Cabernet Franc acreage also tripled in the past decade. Pinot Gris increased nearly 300 percent. And Pinot Noir has replaced Chardonnay as the state’s second most planted variety, with acreage increasing 150 percent in the last 10 years. More than 40 varieties of wine grapes with at least two acres of production were reported. Traditional European varieties account for two-thirds of Michigan’s wine grape acreage. The balance is mainly comprised of hybrid varieties (crosses between European and native North American varieties). Traditionally, the wine grape industry in Michigan was concentrated in four primary counties: Berrien, Van Buren, Grand Traverse and Leelanau. Due to winery expansion around the state, the survey shows vineyard land exceeding 10 acres in each of the following counties: Allegan, Antrim, Benzie, Cass, Charlevoix, Jackson, Lenawee, Oceana, Sanilac and Washtenaw. Michigan ranked fourth in total grape production in the United States in 2011, behind California, Washington and New York, and ranked fifth in wine grape production. Michigan hovers between fifth and eighth place for wine grape production from year to year, depending on weather events that can severely influence regional production volumes in any given year. According to the Michigan Grape and Wine Industry Council, there are 101 commercial wineries producing more than 1.3 million gallons of Michigan wine annually. That number has increased from 32 wineries in 2002 producing 400,000 gallons. For more information about the Michigan wine grape industry, visit the council’s website, www.michiganwines.com. Send us your Now is time for citizens to campaign business news Every day we’re reminded of where the success of our community — or any community — is generated. Without businesses, both large and small, communities would have no tax base from which services, improvements and enjoyment originate. A business community not only provides jobs, it also offers the involvement and the giving that builds a caring culture. The Banner intends to celebrate our business community with a regular “Business Briefs” column that will inform our readers and our community of the vibrancy that a healthy business environment provides us all. We’re interested in your business news — from promotions to expansions from new hires to honored retirees. Send your news and your photos to us at by U.S. Mail or front desk drop-off at JAd Graphics Inc., 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058. Our electronic contact is news@j-adgraphics.com. We look forward to honoring Barry County business by recognizing your accomplishments. BBB warns about local timeshare scam Financial Care Associates, part of Financial Care LLC, has received an F rating from the Better Business Bureau. The business has been the cause of many complaints to BBB Serving Western Michigan in recent days. Consumers who own timeshares tell BBB that they have been contacted by Financial Care and told the company has a buyer for the owner’s timeshare. The timeshare owners are told to wire a processing fee ranging from Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV more than $2,000 to more than $4,500. The sale does not close as promised, and fees are not refunded. Calls and emails to the business are not returned. Financial Care Associates gives its address as 2885 Sanford Ave. SW, Grandville, which is actually a mailing address rental company by the name of Mail Box Forwarding. The owner of Mail Box Forwarding advises BBB that Financial Care Associates is no longer receiving mail at that address. BBB advises timeshare owners to never wire or pay money in advance to a timeshare resale company and to thoroughly check any timeshare resale organization prior to signing any agreement with them. Visit www.bbb.org for more information. To the editor: I may be terribly politically naive, but now that the election is over finally, perhaps we (the people who have had to endure $2 billion in spending by the major national campaigns and another $600 million in Super PAC spending) need to start and maintain an ongoing campaign of our own. We could call it the “We Want Something Better For Our Buck” campaign. Or, “The Return of Common Sense” campaign. Or, the “Remember Us?” campaign. As individuals (regardless of political persuasion), we now need to use every communication tool at our disposal to constantly remind those who were elected that their first job is not to do everything, anything (or nothing) to get re-elected, but that job No. 1 is to do the work of the people — our work — not the bidding of special interest groups, the agenda of lobbyists or the wishes of deeppocket donors. We voted for these officials. We are their special interest group. And, now, more than ever, we should demand that they put politics in perspective and do something — like actually govern. Yes, some on both ends of the ideological political spectrum voice legitimate concerns that need to be considered, but if nothing else, the recently concluded election reminded us that most of us bump into each other somewhere to the right or to the left of the middle. And, the somewhere-in-the-middle folks have had it with government by gridlock. We want something better for our buck. We want our political leaders to do what we have to do every day in all kinds of arenas. It’s called problem-solving through compromise and common sense. Why not a return to common sense by those elected to govern us? The time for each of us to engage our elected representatives is now. If not, we most certainly will ring in the new year with a recession (or worse) while we toast to $399 billion in automatic tax hikes and $102 billion in spending cuts. Additionally, the federal budget deficit, tax reform, immigration reform and entitlement reform are others on a long list of critical areas that can’t wait much longer to be seriously addressed, either. The special interest groups, lobbying organizations and deep-pocket donors have all had their turn. Isn’t it time for us — as individual citizens — to make our presence known to at least each of our elected federal and state officials? Isn’t it time to keep insisting that they now remember us, first and foremost, and actually do the work of the people? We don’t need to organize. We don’t need to meet. We don’t need to write bylaws or collect dues. As individuals, each of us just needs to commit to a campaign of our own. This newspaper regularly publishes “Know Your Legislators,” which contains contact information for federal and state office holders representing this geographical area. Readers should use it. Often. The Hastings John Hoek, Delton Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Bonnie Mattson Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 77572346 Students invited to learn about military academies 77572364 77572349 77572361 Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov 77572358 State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. 77572355 77572352 U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. Call any time for Hastings Banner classified ads 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 �Page 6 — Thursday, November 15, 2012 — The Hastings Banner PARKING, continued from page 1 to complaints from residents living near the school. Trustee Dave Tossava suggested the city talk to school officials about requiring teachers and staff to use the school parking lot rather than parking on Broadway and Grand streets where parents could otherwise park when dropping off or picking up their children at the school. Worship Together… of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Rev. Ryan Wieland. Sundays - 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Service; Sunday School and Nursery available during both services (Summer Schedule - Adult Sunday School: 9 a.m., Worship & Children’s Programs 10 a.m.) Youth Group, Covenant Prayer, Choir, Chimes, Praise Band, Quilting Group, Community Breakfasts and more! Call the church office at (269) 721-8077 (M/W/F 9 a.m.-12 p.m.), e-mail office@mei.net or visit www.countrychapelumc.org <http://www.countrychapelumc.org/> for more information SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 . HASTINGS ASSEMBLY OF GOD 1674 S. State Rd., Hastings, MI 49058 Phone 269-945-2285. Sunday morning service times: 9 a.m. with nursery and preschool available and 11 a.m. with nursery, preschool and kids’ church available. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 8:45 a.m. Traditional Worship; 10 a.m. Refreshments; 10:45 a.m. Contemporary Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Youth Pastor Eric Gillespie. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. for children and youth, and a variety of classes for adults. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Children’s Junior Church, 4 years through 4th grade dismissed prior to offering. Junior and Senior High Youth Group 6:00 p.m. , and several adult small group opportunities. Wednesday Mid-Week Pioneers at 6:30 p.m.: Pioneer Club, 4 years through 5th grade. Adults: Marriage Enrichment class, Women’s Prayer Group and a Men’s Bible Study. Thursday: Senior Adult (50+) Bible Study at 10 a.m. and lunch at Wendy’s, 11:30 a.m. Third Thursday Brunch at 9:30 a.m. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Sunday, Nov. 18 - Worship Service 8 and 10:45 a.m. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Nov. 18 - Adult Sunday School Forum (Sundanese Community Development); Quarterly Mission Ingathering; High School Youth Group 6 p.m.; Men & Women’s Alcoholics Anonymous 7 p.m. Nov. 19 - Adventurer Bible Study 7 p.m. Recovery Bible Study 7:30 p.m. Nov. 20 - Congregation Council Meeting 7 p.m.; Interdenominational Thanksgiving Service 7 p.m. at Emmanuel Episcopal Church. Nov. 21 - NO Wordwatchers 10 a.m. Nov. 22 - Thanksgiving. Nov. 23 - Church Office Closed. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 945-2645, fax 269-945-2698. Pastor Amy Luckey. http://www.discovergrace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot.com. Friday - 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday - 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday 4 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball. Fiberglass Products 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 May had asked Redman to look for a candidate for the seat, which Redman said he had done; and May had approved his recommendation of Tom Maurer for the post. Although he wished to support May’s final recommendation of Maurer, Tossava voted in favor of appointing Snyder. McNabb-Stange said she had interviewed both candidates and felt that Snyder was a better fit for the ZBA. SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN The hunt is afoot for Medicare Part D by Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Michigan’s deer hunting season is now open. Rather than deer, may we recommend setting your sights for the Part D Medicare prescription drug plan that’s best for you? You’ll have more time than usual this year, because open season is lasting longer than normal. If you currently are enrolled in Medicare and are considering changes to your Medicare Part D plan, act now. The “open season” runs from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7. While all Medicare beneficiaries can participate in the prescription drug program, some people with limited income and resources also are eligible for Extra Help to pay for monthly premiums, annual deductibles and prescription co-payments. The Extra Help is estimated to be worth about $4,000 per year. Many people qualify for these big savings and don’t even know it. To figure out whether you are eligible for the Extra Help, Social Security needs to know your income and the value of any savings, investments and real estate (other than the home you live in). To qualify, you must be receiving Medicare and have: • Income limited to $16,755 for an individual or $22,695 for a married couple living together. Even if your annual income is higher, you still may be able to get some help with 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 monthly premiums, annual deductibles and prescription co-payments. • Resources limited to $13,070 for an individual or $26,120 for a married couple living together. Resources include such things as bank accounts, stocks and bonds. We do not count your house or car as resources. You can complete an online application for Extra Help at www.socialsecurity.gov. To apply by phone or have an application sent by mail, call Social Security, 800-772-1213. For more information about the Medicare Part D prescription drug program, visit www.medicare.gov or call 800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227). Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. Grand Rapids office to have reduced hours Effective Nov. 19, the Grand Rapids Social Security office will be open to the public Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. – a reduction of 30 minutes each weekday. In addition, beginning Jan. 2, 2013, the office will close to the public at noon every Wednesday. While agency employees will continue to work their regular hours, this shorter public window will allow them to complete face-toface interviews and process claims work without incurring the cost of overtime. The significantly reduced funding provided by Congress under the continuing resolution for the first six months of the fiscal year makes it impossible for the agency to provide the overtime needed to handle service to the public as it has done in the past. In addition, Friday, Nov. 23, the day after Thanksgiving, all Social Security field offices will be closed to the public. Like last year, employees working that day will focus on reducing backlogged workloads. Most Social Security services do not require a visit to a local office. Many services, including applying for retirement, disability or Medicare benefits, signing up for direct deposit, replacing a Medicare card, obtaining a proof of income letter or reporting a change of address or telephone number are available online, www.socialsecurity.gov, or by calling 800-772-1213. People who are deaf or hard of hearing may call the TTY number, 1-800325-0778. Many of the online services also are available in Spanish at www.segurosocial.gov. Area Obituaries Darlene Kay Morrison Minnie Francis “Bea” Bare BATTLE CREEK, MI - Darlene Kay Morrison, age 67, of Battle Creek, passed away Monday, November 12, 2012 at Borgess Medical Center in Kalamazoo. She was born February 19, 1945 in Battle Creek, the daughter of Coy D. and Clarabelle (VanNocker) Houston. She married Donald Morrison on May 1, 1964 in Battle Creek. She enjoyed knitting, baking and traveling. Darlene’s favorite holiday was Christmas and she made each one memorable and special. She is survived by her husband, Donald; children, Denise (Ronald, Jr.) Hermenitt, Roxanne (Carey) Courtis, Neil (Maria) Morrison, and Eric (Nancy) Morrison; sister, Becky (Blaine) Sweatt; and grandchildren, Ron, Isabella, Alexander and Logan. She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Darwin Houston. Visitation will be held Thursday, November 15, from 2 to 4 and from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Bachman Hebble Funeral Service. Funeral services will be held Friday, November 16, 2012 at 2 p.m. at the Bachman Hebble Funeral Service. Burial will be at the Floral Lawn Memorial Gardens in Battle Creek, MI. In lieu of flowers memorial tributes may be made to the American Cancer Society or the National Kidney Foundation. Arrangements by the Bachman Hebble Funeral Service, a member by invitation Selected Independent Funeral Homes. (269)965-5145 www.bachmanhebble.com PLAINWELL, MI - Minnie Francis “Bea” Bare, of Plainwell, passed away November 8, 2012. Bea was born August 29, 1922, in Baltimore, Maryland, the daughter of the late Charles and Minnie (Adelong) Klinck. Bea enjoyed attending her great grandchildren’s wrestling tournaments, she was Grandma to the Delton Kellogg wrestling teams during the 90s, was a member of VFW Post #422 Auxiliary, spending time with her family and grandchildren was here life. Bea is survived by her children, Barry (Kathleen) Bare of Kalkaska, William (Shaun) Beardsley of Rose City, Richard (Virginia) Beardsley, Lynda (Tim) Thomas of Orangeville Township; goddaughter and godson, Sandra (Norman) DeHann of Bellville; six grandsons; three granddaughters and 12 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by two husbands, Richard Beardsley and Reuben Bare; sister, Agnes Scott. The family will receive friends, Saturday, November 17, 2012, 11 a.m. to noon, at the Faith United Methodist Church, Delton, where a memorial service will be conducted at noon, with Pastor Jeff Worden officiating. Burial will take place in Brown Cemetery. For a more lasting memorial, please consider memorial contributions to: Pennock Hospice or American Cancer Society. Please visit www.williamsgoresfuneral. com to view Bea’s online guest book or to send a condolence message to her family. Pearl S. Beers LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Lauer Family Funeral Homes of Commissioners, posthumously honoring Hastings Mayor Bob May for his years of service to the city and the community. • Approved Mayor pro-tem Brenda McNabb-Stange’s appointment of Michael Snyder as an alternate on the Hastings Zoning Board of Appeals. The motion to approve the appointment was passed by a 7-1 vote with trustee Bill Redman dissenting. Redman said 77572319 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. • Unanimously approved a motion to allow carriage rides during the annual Christmas celebration the weekend of Nov. 30 through Dec. 2. • Unanimously approved a liquor license for Vinnie’s Woodfired Saloon, located at 133 E. State St. • Received a proclamation from Craig Stolsonburg, chair of the Barry County Board HASTINGS, MI - Pearl S. Beers, age 98, of Hastings, passed away November 9, 2012 at Pennock Hospital in Hastings. She was born November 18, 1913 in Harrisburg, PA, the daughter of Forrest and Pearl (Weise) Shindler. Pearl attended John Harris High School and Harrisburg Business School. She married Ernest Beers on August 11, 1934. Pearl was employed by J.H. Troup Music Company in Harrisburg, PA, as well as Lorenz Music Company in Sacramento, CA, as a bookkeeper. Pearl enjoyed working in her yard and garden. She also enjoyed her pet dogs. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ernest Beers and daughter, Sandra Beers. Pearl is survived by her daughters, Judy (Bob) Wilson of Hastings and Diane (Charles) Haight of Lompoc, CA; her son, Rick (Sue) Beers of Redding, CA and 10 grandchildren and 27 great grandchildren. Respecting Pearl’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Burial will take place in San Luis Obispo, CA. Memorial contributions may be made to Samaritan’s Purse at www.samaritanspurse. org. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message for the family. EARLY HOLIDAY DEADLINES for The Hastings Banner 77572343 ue to improve from there.” In other business the council: • Discussed parking and issues around Central Elementary School. Hastings Deputy Chief of Police Jeff Pratt said that in recent weeks the city has stepped up patrols and has had its parking enforcement officer in the area during drop-off and pick-up times in response Monday, Nov. 19 at NOON for Classifieds, Display Ads, and New Articles �Social News The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 15, 2012 — Page 7 by Gerald Stein NORTH N: K Q 7 2 M: J 7 6 4 L: J 7 K: Q J 3 WEST Marriage Licenses EAST N: 9 6 M: A Q 9 8 L: Q 8 5 4 2 K: A 4 N: 8 3 M: 10 5 3 L: A 9 K: 10 9 8 6 5 2 Mathew Thomas, Rolla, MO and Donna MaryJose, Long Beach, CA. Martin Cruz-Valencia, Middleville and Yuriana Pacheco-Santos, Three Rivers. Christian Michael Berry, Hastings and Kimberley Lorena Hayward, Hastings. Steven Terry Geroy, Delton and Brianna Mary Visser, Delton. SOUTH: N: A J 10 5 4 M: K 2 L: K 10 6 3 K: K 7 Dealer: West Lois Kidder to turn 80 Vulnerable: Both On Tuesday, November 20, 2012, Lois will celebrate her 80th birthday. Cards and well wishes from family and friends may be sent to her at: Lois Kidder, Magnum Health/Rehab Hastings, 240 E. North St., Hastings, MI 49058; Rm. 1026. Lead: AK North East South Pass 3N Pass M 2M Pass Pass 2N 4N West M 1M Pass Pass HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, Nov. 15 — November reading club, “Get Fired Up for Reading,” continues for pre-K through 12th grades; Movie Memories celebrates Jeanne Crain with “A Letter to Three Wives,” 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 16 — preschool story time enjoys “The Three Billy Goats Gruff,” 10:30 to 11 a.m.; Taste of the Holidays recipe exchange begins, Monday, Nov. 19 — Hastings Library Board meets, 4 to 6 p.m.; computer classes learn Facebook basics, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 20 — no toddler story time; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 21 — teen advisory board meets, 3:45 to 4:45 p.m. Call the Hastings Public Library for more information, 269-945-4263. Ella Rose, born at Metro Health Hospital on Oct. 6, 2012 at 7:43 p.m. to Kayla and Bryan Holcomb of Freeport. Weighing 8 lbs. 8 ozs. and 22 inches long. ***** Hayden Lee, born at Pennock Hospital on Oct. 29, 2012 at 2:17 p.m. to Christina and Jeremy Orman of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 4 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Brody Charles, born at Pennock Hospital on Oct. 31, 2012 at 12:33 p.m. to Beverly and Joshua Smith of Hastings. Weighing 5 lbs. 13 ozs. and 18 1/2 inches long. ***** Preston Eric, born at Pennock Hospital on Nov. 4, 2012 at 4:39 p.m. to Rachel and Eric Greenfield of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 2 ozs. and 20 1/2 inches long. ***** Dakota Michael, born at Pennock Hospital on Nov. 1, 2012 at 12:04 a.m. to Mike and Mary Poirier of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 5 ozs. and 19 3/4 inches long. Storms celebrate 60th wedding anniversary Bill and Betty will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary November 22, 2012. They were married in Dowling and have lived in the area for the past 60 years. Along with their three children, Bill and Marilyn, Val and Fred, and Buzz and Jennifer, nine grandchildren and ten greatgrandchildren, they will celebrate the occasion with a family dinner. Join in their celebration of this monumental occasion by sending them a card at 1295 E. Dowling Rd., Hastings, MI 49058. 269-967-8241 06790990 ® Licensed / Insured / Local The Call Scott 517-290-5556 • 877-448-1548 FREE Consultation & Estimates! ALSO EGRESS WINDOWS / MOLD REMEDIATION 77572310 Recently, in the Defense in the 21st Century bridge class going on currently in the Battle Creek area, the emphasis has been on defensive leads, defensive signals, and being a good defensive bridge player. Because bridge players are on defense 50% of the time, it is important to hone your defensive skills by using defensive signals when it appears that your opponents have overbid. Today’s auction might be just the case. With West opening the bidding at 1M, which to me seems to be a questionable bid given that most modern players have given up on the 4-card major opening and have gone to the American Standard position of opening majors with a 5-card suit, still it happens, and the astute bridge player will recognize that bridge players like to bid. Today’s hand, taken from a similar hand found in Mike Lawrence’s 1973 bridge book How to Read Your Opponents’ Cards, shows what can happen when the defense plays their cards right. What do we know about the hands from the bidding? While the bidding on the West hand might be suspect, still it does and will continue to happen. West bid 1M with only four hearts and 12 high card points and one length point for 13 total points. North passed, and East supported the heart bid with three hearts, four high card points with the AL, and several dummy points. Quite a stretch, but nevertheless, it is done all the time. North and South entered the bidding with South’s overcall of two spades, showing a strong spade suit and good total points to go to the two-level in the bidding ladder. With West passing, North supported the spade overcall and bid 3N pass by East ended the East-West bidding, but South pushed on to 4N. With everyone bidding, something seemed amiss. Who had the points? Were there enough points to make a game when we all know that a major suit needs 25-26 points to make a game? Surely, someone was stretching here. Counting just the high card points, it is easy to see that East-West have 16 high card points between them: 12 in the West hand and four in the East hand. The North-South team has the rest with 10 points in the North and 14 in the South. That amounts to 24 and may or may not be enough to bring home the ambitious game of the North-South team. Will good defense prevail, or will the North-South team carry the day with a squeaky game made and scored? The defense always has the first shot and the opening lead. This is a crucial time for both defenders to be on the same page. They need to cooperate as a team to defeat the four-spade contract. The opening lead from West was the AK, not wanting to ruin the strong AM QM combination. Here is where East as a cooperating partner must give the proper signal for the defensive team. What did East play as a signal card on the AK led by partner West? Because East-West in their partnership agreement play attitude signals on leads from each other, East must signal to West that she did not want a continuation of the club suit. With attitude signals, a low card as a played card is a discouraging signal; a high card is an encouraging card. In this case, East knew that leading a second club would only set up the declarer’s club suit, and it would be easy for South to make the four-spade contract. East played the 2K, as discouraging a signal card as she had in her hand. The message here was loud and clear: switch to another suit. But which suit? Here West must make the right decision. East had signaled a discouraging sign. Find another suit. Ruling out the trump suit since it appeared that North-South have nine trumps between them, there would be nothing there. The heart suit must be protected to pick up two tricks, one with the AM and one with the QM. The only remaining suit was the diamond suit. West picked a low diamond on the second trick to lead back to her partner East. East took the trick with the AL and she knew the lead had to be a heart lead. The small heart lead from East trapped the KM in the South hand. West took the two heart tricks that they deserved and handed North-South a minus 100 points, down one trick. Good defensive bridge work is a team effort. Each part of the team must be aware of attitude signals, switching to another suit, and returning the right suit. The defense is on a race. They have the first advantage, and if they are to be successful defenders, then they must play their cards in the right order and claim the defensive prize. If East-West had not been using attitude signals, it is highly likely that West would have continued the small club lead at the second trick, handing North-South a game that they did not deserve to win. Attitude is the name of the game for defensive bridge players. ***** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) Newborn Babies NOTICE Cellco Partnership and its controlled affiliates doing business as Verizon Wireless (Verizon Wireless) is proposing to build a 199ft Monopole Telecommunications Tower, off Martin Road approx, 0.4 miles north of E. Carlton Center Rd., Woodland, Barry County, MI 48897. Public comments regarding potential effects from this site on historic properties may be submitted within 30-days from the date of this publication to: Trileaf Corp, Will Bates, w.bates@trileaf.com, 10845 Olive Blvd, St.Louis, MO 63141, 314-997-6111. 77564841 BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY 77572440 Florida 2013: January 21 - February 3 and February 4-23 Ray L. Girrbach Owner/Director Agawa Canyon Snow Train: February 8-10 Arizona & New Mexico: February 25-March 17 North American International Auto Show: January 26 - $55.00 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 • 269-945-3252 Valentine’s Day Mystery Trip: February 14 - $120.00 Serving Hastings, Barry County and Surrounding Communities for 45 years •Traditional and Cremation Services •Pre-Planning Services We are happy to prepare gift certificates for any occasion – the holidays are coming! •Large Parking Lot - Handicap Accessible •Serving All Faiths •Pre-arrangement Transfers Accepted Call or email for more information or a complete brochure! 517.647.2050 or 855.219.0085 hartzlertours@gmail.com Family Owned and Operated www. hartzlertours.com 7757248 Don’t delay, tours are filling fast, inquire today! 77572419 www.girrbachfuneralhome.net Complete tour information can be found at: �Page 8 — Thursday, November 15, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of EDWARD JONES Don’t overlook financial risks in retirement by Elaine Garlock Thanksgiving Day comes next week with trips “over the river and through the woods” to Grandmother’s house or elsewhere. The library event Saturday was a success with all the tables filled for an elegant tea served by library and Friends board members and library staff joining them. There was a variety of tea served, along with scones, sandwiches, breads, cookies and fruit. Guests enjoyed a presentation by Sherrie who has the new consignment shop on Fourth Avenue. Many door prizes went to lucky ticket holders. Coming programs at the library were announced. Guests were invited to bring their own tea cups. Thus the tables had many touches of beauty with the variety of china cups on display. The annual turkey dinner at Central United Methodist Church was enjoyed by more than 100 who came to enjoy a fine meal and mingle with others. The group included not only members of the host church but also those who regularly attend the Thursday night soup suppers and the respite care participants and their families. The evening opened with the attendees singing a Thanksgiving hymn followed by grace, rendered by Pastor Karen Sorden for whom this was a first-time event. The meal was served quickly by runners from each table who delivered the bowls of hot food after the diners had helped themselves at the salad bar. Diners also chose their own pie. The tables were well decorated with typical turkey, pumpkin and cornucopia decorations. First Congregational Church held its first soup supper of the season Wednesday evening with good soups, breads and desserts for those gathered for an evening of food and fellowship. Ed and Bonnie Leak had the misfortune to have an auto accident in Arizona, soon after their arrival there. They spend winters at Black Canyon City. Their car was a total loss, but they had only minimal injuries – mostly bumps and bruises. The latest Bonanza Bugle will be in mail boxes this week. One feature is an article written by Jeff Eckstrom about his childhood in Lake Odessa in the 1960s. Details about the bicycles of the time, swimming lessons and fun at the beach, trips on bikes to Woodland to go to Classic’s Drug Store and details of which boys were on which street by neighborhood. This issue also contains the stories used at the May cemetery walk. The Bugle is a bonus for members of the local historical society. It has had history from the village for the past 53 years. The Lansing State Journal had an article devoted to James Mulvany who is a volunteer caring for a city park in Mason. Jim was the vo-ag teacher at Lake Odessa High School in the 1950s. Voters who had not seen a sample ballot before the Tuesday election last week were likely surprised to see one of the candidates for Regent for the University of Michigan the name of Lupe Ramos-Montigny. She is a former teacher at West Elementary. She also worked in the summer migrant program. During her five years here, she resided with Les and Virginia Yonkers. Since she moved to Grand Rapids, she has been very active in Democratic party affairs and in the Hispanic community. mind, though, that stocks can reduce or discontinue dividends at any time and are subject to market fluction and loss of principal..) • Market Fluctuations — When you retire and begin taking withdrawals from your investment portfolio — that is, when you begin selling off investments — you’d obviously like prices to be high. After all, the classic piece of investment advice is “buy low, sell high.” But it’s impossible to try to “time” the market this way, as it will always fluctuate. That’s why you may want consider sources of income whose value is not dependent on what’s happening in the financial markets. Your financial advisor may be able to recommend investments that can provide you with this type of income stream. • Low interest rates — Many retirees depend on fixed-rate investments for a good portion of their retirement income — so it’s a real challenge when interest rates are low. Consequently, when you retire, you’ll certainly need to be aware of the interest-rate environment and the income you can expect from these investments. Longer-term fixed-rate vehicles may be tempting, as they typically offer higher rates than shorter-term ones, but these longer term investments may have more price fluctuation and inflation risk than shorter-term investments. Consequently, you'll still likely need balance between short, intermediate, and long-term investments to provide for a portion of your income in retirement. Retirement can be a rewarding time in your life. And you can help make your retirement years even more enjoyable by understanding the relevant investment risks and taking steps to address them. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 31.18 -.76 AT&T 33.95 -85 BP PLC 40.54 -2.56 CMS Energy Corp 22.98 -.67 Coca-Cola Co 36.16 -1.26 Eaton 49.47 -.95 Family Dollar Stores 65.82 -.52 Fifth Third Bancorp 14.00 -.59 Flowserve CP 136.55 -4.34 Ford Motor Co. 11.00 -.42 General Mills 39.35 -.45 General Motors 24.82 -1.37 Intel Corp. 20.28 -1.45 Kellogg Co. 53.82 -.94 McDonald’s Corp 84.64 -3.33 Pfizer Inc. 24.05 -.66 Ralcorp 71.24 -1.05 Sears Holding 59.90 6.85 Spartan Motors 4.74 -.24 Spartan Stores 13.81 -.66 Stryker 52.68 -.78 TCF Financial 11.09 -.52 Walmart Stores 71.81 -1.95 Gold $1725.05 +$7.90 Silver $32.46 +.41 Dow Jones Average 12,756 -489 Volume on NYSE 633M -5M Babiak named to Hastings City Bank board NOTICE TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PARTIES PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a Public Hearing will be held by the Prairieville Township Zoning Board of Appeals on December 5, 2012 at 7:00 P.M. at the Prairieville Township Hall, 10115 S. Norris Road, within the Township. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the item(s) to be considered at this Public Hearing include, in brief, the following: 1. A request by Richard and Diane Wright, 11515 Lakeshore Dr. Plainwell, MI 49080, for a variance from the rear yard setback requirements set forth in Section 6.17 “Non-Conforming Lots of Record”, to allow for the construction of a new residence with a reduced rear yard setback. The subject property 11515 Lakeshore Dr. – 08-12-320-043-00, is located within the “R2” Residential District. 2. Such other and further matters as may properly come before the Zoning Board of Appeals for this meeting. All interested persons are invited to be present or submit written comments on this matter(s) to the below Township office address. Prairieville Township will provide necessary auxiliary aids and services such as signers for the hearing impaired and audiotapes of printed materials being considered at the hearing upon five (5) days notice to the Prairieville Township Clerk. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Prairieville Township Clerk at the address or telephone number set forth below. 77572456 Jim Stoneburner, Township Supervisor Joseph J. Babiak Jr. has been elected to the Hastings City Bank Board of Directors, according to a press release from Mark Kolanowski, president and CEO. Babiak is currently the president, CEO and chairman of the Hastings Mutual Insurance Company, previously serving the organization as senior vice president of insurance operations and chief financial officer. “Joe brings to the board experience in strategic and operational planning, as well as a financial services background — a valuable skill set for us” said Kolanowski “He will be a wonderful addition to this board of community leaders.” Current board members are Attorney James Fisher, of counsel with Law Weathers and consultant for the Michigan Supreme Court, Matthew Garber, M.D., director of hospitalist program, Pennock Hospital; Barbara Hunt, accounting manager, Bethany Christian Services; Frederic Halbert, Halbert Dairy LLC; Scott McKeown, partner in McKeown, Kraai & Phillips PLC; William Wallace, past president and CEO of Hastings Mutual Insurance Company; Archie Warner, president and CEO of Harder and Warner Nursery Inc.; and Kolanowski. Babiak is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin, with a major in accounting, and is a certified public accountant. He has been active in the community, serving on the Barry County United Way Board and Allocations and is a member of the Hastings Cemetery Action Group. “I am honored to join the board of directors at Hastings City Bank,” said Babiak “and look forward to working with the board and management team to continue the success of Hastings City Bank and its reputation for excellence in the community.” Hastings City Bank is a full-service community bank with six branches in Bellevue, Caledonia, Hastings, Middleville, Nashville and Wayland. Call any time for Hastings Banner ads Call 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 to place your ad! HOPE TOWNSHIP BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF HOPE, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: TAKE NOTICE that the following is a summary of an Ordinance, being Ordinance No. 80, which was adopted by the Township Board of Hope Township at its meeting held on November 12, 2012. SECTION 1. REPEAL OF DEFINITION “BILLBOARD”. This section amends Section 2.1 of the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance entitled “Definitions” by the repeal of the definition of “BILLBOARD”. SECTION 2. AMENDMENT OF DEFINITION OF “SIGN”. This section amends Section 2.1 of the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance entitled “Definitions” by the amendment of the definition of “SIGN” to, among other things, list various specific sign types. SECTION 3. AMENDMENT OF ARTICLE IX. This section amends Article IX of the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance entitled “Signs and Billboards” so as to set forth extensive regulations regarding, among other matters, the size, number, location and manner of construction and display of signs in Hope Township. SECTION 4. SEVERABILITY. The provisions of this Ordinance are severable. SECTION 5 EFFECTIVE DATE AND REPEAL OF CONFLICTING ORDINANCES. This Ordinance shall take effect eight (8) days following its publication after adoption. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with this Ordinance are repealed. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the full text of this Ordinance has been posted in the office of the Hope Township Clerk at the address set forth below and that copies of this Ordinance may be purchased or inspected at the office of the Hope Township Clerk during regular business hours of regular working days following the date of this publication. Deborah Jackson, Clerk HOPE TOWNSHIP 5463 South M-43 highway Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 948-2464 When you retire, you may well have accomplished some important financial goals, such as sending your children through college and paying off your mortgage. Yet, you can’t relax just yet, because your retirement could easily last two or three decades, which means you’ll need at least two or three decades’ worth of income — which, in turn, means you’ll need the proper savings and investment strategies in place. And, just as importantly, you’ll also need to be aware of the types of risk that could threaten these strategies. Let’s consider some of these risks: • Longevity — None of us can say for sure how long we’ll live. But it's still important to have an estimate, based on your health and family history. So if you think you may live, for 25 years in retirement, you’ll want to withdraw enough from your investments each year to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle — but not so much that you deplete your funds before the 25 years have passed. • Inflation — We’ve experienced pretty mild inflation over the past few years. But over time, even a low rate of inflation can seriously erode your purchasing power. To illustrate: If your current monthly costs are $3,000, with only a 3% annual inflation rate, that would be about $4,000 in 10 years. And in 25 years at that same rate, your monthly costs will have more than doubled, to about $6,200. To help protect yourself against inflation risk, it's important to have at least some investments that offer growth potential, rather than only owning fixed-income vehicles, such as certificates of deposit (CDs). You’ll also want consider sources of rising income potential, such as dividend-paying stocks. (Keep in 77572469 NOTICE The minutes of the meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners held November 13, 2012, are available in the County Clerk’s Office at 220 W. State St., Hastings, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or www.barrycounty.org. 77572340 NOTICE The Barry County Board of Commissioners is seeking applications from volunteers to serve on the following Boards/Commissions: Agricultural Preservation Board (4 positions: 1 representing Natural Resource Conservation, 2 representing Agricultural Interest, and 1 representing Real Estate or Development Interest) Commission on Aging Board (2 positions) Parks and Recreation Board (1 position, Citizen at Large) Region 3B Area Agency on Aging Advisory Council (1 position, Member at Large) This position requires completion of a special application form. Please contact the County Administrator’s Office to request a copy, at 269-945-1284. Applications may be obtained at the County Administration Office, 3rd floor of the Courthouse, 220 W. State St., Hastings; or www.barrycounty.org; and must be returned no later than 5:00 p.m. on Monday, November 19, 2012. Contact 269-945-1284 for more information. 77572097 Joseph J. Babiak Jr. NOTICE TO BIDDERS BARRY COUNTY ROAD COMMISSION Sealed proposals will be received at the office of the Barry County Road Commission, 1725 West M-43 Highway, P.O. Box 158, Hastings, MI 49058, until 10:00 A.M. Monday December 10, 2012 for the following items. Specifications and additional information may be obtained at the Road Commission Office at the above address or at our web site at barrycrc.org Grass Seed Guardrail Cleaning Supplies Erosion Control Traffic Control Signs Nuts & bolts Scraper Blades The Board reserves the right to reject any or all proposals or to waive irregularities in the best interest of the Commission. BOARD OF COUNTY ROAD COMMISSIONERS OF THE COUNTY OF BARRY Frank M. Fiala Chairman David D. Solmes Member 77572302 D. David Dykstra Member CITY OF HASTINGS NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING Notice is hereby given that two Council Members have called a special meeting of the City Council of the City of Hastings, as permitted by Section 5.9 of the City Charter, at 7:30 PM on Monday, November 19, 2012 in the second floor Council Chambers at City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. The purpose of the meeting will be to consider an appointment to the position of Mayor until the next regular City election. The City will provide reasonable and necessary aids and services for persons with disabilities upon five days notice to the City clerk by calling 269.945.2468 or TDD call relay services at 800.649.3777. Thomas E. Emery City Clerk 77572180 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 15, 2012 — Page 9 LEGAL NOTICES Pioneer school boy ran away and became Civil War soldier, part 4 early hour by the lord of the manor – they expected he was still on picket duty — he had consulted with his wife and found she was entertaining guests. He came up the ladder and looked them over. The conversation was not free and cordial – he suspected something, and they knew it from his manner. He was unarmed. He had left his weapons at the station, so he could not hold them up. He did not say much, but they read him like an open book and were prepared to resist if necessary. “Well, boys,” he said, as he descended the ladder, “you will stay for breakfast?” “Certainly, was the quick and cheerful response – they were star boarders – they never lost a meal when opportunity invited. They kept an eye on him through the cracks in the barn and saw him slop slyly off towards the town. When he was out of sight, they went to the house. The demeanor of the lady had changed – she had made no preparation for breakfast – “would we stay” she asked. Certainly, they replied, if she would name the time, they could be there – they would take a little stroll in the freshness of the morn. They might look the town over if they had time. When out of sight, they took to the mountains again. When they neared the great city of Pittsburgh, they made a large detour to the south and struck the Ohio River. They dared not undertake the common mode of passage. The night was dark and the banks steep and thickly wooded. With difficulty they made their way down to the water. They tried to find a boat moored to the shore, but were unable to do so. They found a plank among some driftwood. The narrator suggested they disrobe, tie their clothes to the plank and swim the river. Busha declared he could “Swim like a stone and dive like a feather” – he had not learned the art. That raised a new and unexpected problem. The river was broad and deep, the water and night were chilly, since it was late in October or the first of November – they had lost their time reckoning. “Where there is a will there is a way” – the problem was soon solved. Busha rode the plank and carried the clothes, and the narrator swam the river and pushed his comrade before him. The passage was necessarily slow and laborious. The undertaking proved to be much more difficult and dangerous than anticipated – the current was strong and the plank had to be kept headed upstream with a slight angle toward the opposite shore, and, being partly submerged by the weight of the rider, was very difficult to manage. At times, it seemed to the swimmer as though it was an utter impossibility to accomplish the feat and save his comrade, but he resolved they would survive or perish together – if a cramp had seized the swimmer in the chilly water, two tragedies would have been enacted. How long they remained in the water they had no means of determining, but it was a long, long while ere they gained the opposite bank three miles or more downstream, and the swimmer was chilled to the marrow and exhausted. (Continued next week) NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF RIVERSIDE CEMETERY COMPANY OF HASTINGS, MICHIGAN A special meeting of the owners, partners, members, and stockholders of Riverside Cemetery Company of Hastings, Michigan will be held on the 7th day of December, 2012 at Three o’clock in the afternoon at 231 South Broadway, Hastings, Michigan for the purpose of authorizing the transfer of Riverside Cemetery to the City of Hastings. October 29, 2012 RIVERSIDE CEMETERY COMPANY OF HASTINGS, MICHIGAN 1003 West State Road Hastings, Michigan 49058 77572165 Case No. 12-141-CH CIRCUIT COURT SALE In pursuance and by virtue of a Judgment of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on the 17th day of July A.D., 2012 in a certain cause therein pending, wherein THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-9 was the Plaintiff and Teresa Herlein and Duane T. Herlein were the Defendants. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that I shall sell at public auction to the highest bidder, at public venue, at the Barry County Courthouse (that being the place of holding the Circuit Court for said County), on the 29th day of November, A.D., 2012 at 1 pm o’clock in the forenoon, Eastern Standard Time, the following described property, viz: All certain piece or parcel of land situated in the Township of Thornapple, County of Barry and State of Michigan, described as follows: Lot 8, Near Lane Estates No. 1, as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats, Page 7, Barry County Records Tax ID: 14-140-0008-00 Commonly known as: 12942 Near Lane, Caledonia, MI 49316 This property may be redeemed during the six (6) months following the sale. Dated: October 4, 2012 Mark Sheldon Deputy Sheriff Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Ronald S. Glaser (P46986) Attorneys for Plaintiff 43252 Woodward Ave., Suite 180 Bloomfield Hills, MI 77571391 48302 (248) 335-9200 (10-04)(11-15) City of Hastings NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that the Planning Commission of the City of Hastings will hold a Public Hearing on Monday, December 3, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. The purpose of the Public Hearing is for the Planning Commission to hear comments and make a determination on an amendment to the City of Hastings Zoning Ordinance which would allow the Planning Commission to have discretion in modifying the maximum front setback requirements for buildings in the B-1 (Central Business District), B-3 (Downtown Edge District), B-4 (West Business District), B-5 (Mixed Use District), and A-2 (Apartment Edge District) according to certain criteria contained in the amendment. Written comments will be received on the above request at Hastings City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. Requests for information and/or minutes of said hearing should be directed to the Hastings City Clerk at the same address. The City will provide necessary reasonable aids and services upon five days notice to Hastings City Clerk (telephone number 269-945-2468) or TDD call relay services 1-800-649-3777. Thomas E. Emery City Clerk 77572462 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Michael J McGill, a married man, joined by his wife, Kelly McGill, who is waiving dower, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Plus, Inc., Mortgagee, dated October 18, 1995, and recorded on October 26, 1995 in Liber 643 on Page 586, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Nationsbanc Mortgage Corporation as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Eight Thousand Nine Hundred FortyOne and 97/100 Dollars ($98,941.97). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on November 29, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land located in the Southeast 1/4 of Section 32, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, described as: Commencing at the Southeast corner of said Section 32, running thence Due North 870.43 feet to the centerline of Irving Road; thence North 47 degrees 22 minutes 30 seconds West 390.25 feet; thence North 54 degrees 17 minutes 30 seconds West 1,021.63 feet; thence North 79 degrees 18 minutes West 567 feet to the point of beginning; thence South 15 degrees 15 minutes West 308.20 feet to the railroad right-of-way fence; thence Northwesterly along said railroad right-of-way fence 450.70 feet; thence North 10 degrees 42 minutes East 319.50 feet; thence South 79 degrees 18 minutes East 475 feet to the place of beginning. Except A parcel of land located in the Southeast 1/4 of Section 32, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, described as: Commencing at the Southeast corner of said Section 32 running thence Due North 870.43 feet to the centerline of Irving Road; thence North 47 degrees 22 minutes 30 seconds West 390.25 feet; thence North 54 degrees 17 minutes 30 seconds West 1,021.63 feet; thence North 79 degrees 18 minutes West 567 feet to the point of beginning; thence South 15 degrees 15 minutes West 208.20 feet to the railroad right of way fence thence Northwesterly along said right of way fence 225.35 feet thence North 12 degrees 58 minutes 30 seconds East 313.85 feet; thence South 79 degrees 18 minutes East 237.50 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: October 25, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #413216F01 77571836 (10-25)(11-15) City of Hastings NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that the Planning Commission of the City of Hastings will hold a Public Hearing on Monday, December 3, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. The purpose of the Public Hearing is for the Planning Commission to hear comments and make a determination on a request for site plan approval and a special land use permit to allow a City Spray Plaza to be located at the northwest corner of State Street and Church Street. Written comments will be received on the above request at Hastings City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. Requests for information and/or minutes of said hearing should be directed to the Hastings City Clerk at the same address. The City will provide necessary reasonable aids and services upon five days notice to Hastings City Clerk (telephone number 269-945-2468) or TDD call relay services 1-800-649-3777. Thomas E. Emery City Clerk 77572460 Fracking News Vol. 1 On October 24 2012, Michigan Land Air Water Defense, (MLAWD) filed suit in Barry County Circuit Court against the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR). MLAWD maintains that, by leasing mineral rights in these specially designated areas, MDNR has failed to uphold its public trust duties, contained in the Michigan Constitution and Michigan Environmental MLAWD is seeking nullification of the results of two MDNR mineral lease Protection Act, to responsibly manage state held lands. auctions, held on May 8 and October 24, 2012, for parcels within state game MLAWD has retained the Traverse and recreation areas in Barry and City law firm of Olson, Bzdok & Allegan Counties. Howard; we anticipate a protracted legal battle with statewide implicaAt issue is the controversial oil and tions. We are a group of local citizens gas production method of horizontal and we need your help. Join us or send hydraulic fracturing, or “fracking” on donations to … or under the State Game Areas. MLAWD P.O. Box 335, Delton, MI 49046 Visit our website: www.milawdefense.org 77572458 The following is part of a series that began in the April 30, 1914, Hastings Banner regarding Hickory Corners native Alonzo D. Cadwallader, and his recollections as a boy soldier. He was assigned to Company K, 17th Michigan Infantry when he enlisted just shy of his 15th birthday. He reportedly said he was 18 and from Kalamazoo. This excerpt, from the May 14, 1914, Banner, picks up after Cadwallader and fellow young soldier, Eli Busha, of Spring Arbor, are making their way across themountains of Pennsylvania, after running away from camp. ***** Their progress was necessarily slow as they worked their way over the different ranges, often they had to retrace their steps or change their course, since ascent or descent was too steep for them to venture. On one occasion, in making a steep descent to avoid a long detour, when part way down, they lost their footing and went rolling and tumbling for 20 feet or more before they could stay their progress toward the bottom of a deep canyon. They fortunately escaped with a few sore spots. It was a wonder they did not get lost among those mountains. They lived principally on nuts – it was the time of the year when nature was the most bountiful in her food supply. There is a well constructed highway running from Chambersburgh over the mountains in the general direction of Pittsburgh. After a time, they ventured down on that thoroughfare and traveled nights. One moonlit night, the chattering hoofs of pursuing horsemen were heard just back of a bend in the winding road. It was sudden and unexpected, a narrow cleared field was on either side – beyond lay the woody side of the mountain. They were so closely beset they dare not attempt to cross the field in the moonlight. They jumped the fence lay down in its shadow. The horsemen passed and they sprinted across the open field and gained the mountain side and the protection of the brush and timber. After a short time, from their outlook, they saw those horsemen retrace their course and scrutinize either side of the highway — they had missed their quarry and evidently had not seen them. The two youths took to the mountains again and it was some time ere they ventured on to the highway again and, when they traveled there, it was in the dark of the moon. After they were 50 or 60 miles or so inland, they began to associate with the country people, avoiding towns by detour around. There was then no danger among the country folk, with them, nothing was too good for a soldier, they lived on the fat of the land. Since they were in their uniforms a plausible story had to be invented. They were taken prisoners, they said, at Harpers Ferry, when Col. Miles surrendered his 12,000 troops to the enemy. There were so many, and the Johnnies so hard pressed, they let their prisoners go on parole of honor – they were making their way to the parole camp at Columbus, Ohio. It was plausible and it worked. The narrator with his knife made a hole in the crown of his hat, which he said was made just before the surrender. “Oh, my! what a narrow escape,” the women folk would say. In speaking of the hat, calls to mind an incident at South Mountain. The 17th wore their hats in battle, which distinguished them from all others. The boys felt a sacred pride in what they helped accomplish there until one of the South Carolina prisoners they had taken gave his version of the affair – he said: “That regiment that wore hats did not know enough to know when they were whipped.” One evening they called at a house in the outskirts of a little town in a small valley between mountains and got their supper. The lady was very talkative and they gathered much valuable information. Her husband was out on picket duty. He belonged to an organization called minute men. They guarded the roads and mountain passed by night. The said they carried with them the soldier’s mascot – the grayback – their argument prevailed and they slept in the bar on the hay in an open loft. The next morning they were surprised at an STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-26226 DE Estate of Bert Martin Walker. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Bert Martin Walker, died 05/21/2008. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Stephanie Walker, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 11/07/2012 Matthew L. Glaser 2510 Capital Avenue SW, Suite 103 Battle Creek, Michigan 49015 (269) 964-9035 Stephanie Walker 256 E. Birdsall Battle Creek, Michigan 49037 77572449 (269) 275-9200 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Sequoyah Stuk a married woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for Amerifirst Financial Corporation its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated May 19, 2011, and recorded on May 27, 2011 in instrument 201105270005466, in Barry county records, Michigan, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Seven Thousand Seven Hundred Thirty-Seven and 46/100 Dollars ($87,737.46). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on November 29, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A Parcel Of Land In The North 1/2 Of The Northeast 1/4 Of Section 12, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, Which Commences At The Southeast Corner Thereof; Thence North 26 2/3 Rods For a Place Of Beginning; Thence North 220 Feet; Thence West 198 Feet; Thence South 220 Feet; Thence East 198 Feet To The Place Of Beginning, Hastings Township, Barry County, Michigan. Also: A Parcel Of Land In The North 1/2 Of The Northeast 1/4 Described As Beginning At A Point On The East Line Of Section 12, 24 Rods North Of The North 1/8 Line; Thence North 2 2/3 Rods On Said East Line Of Section 12; Thence West 12 Rods; Thence South 2 2/3 Rods; Thence East 12 Rods To Place Of Beginning, Hastings Township, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 1, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #413723F01 77572044 (11-01)(11-22) �Page 10 — Thursday, November 15, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Trust Estate Estate of Marion H. Longman, Deceased Date of Birth: December 10, 1921. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Marion H. Longman, Grantor of the Marion H. Longman Revocable Trust, under a Declaration of Trust dated Sept. 7, 2000, (the Trust), died September 1, 2012. There is no probate estate, and therefore no personal representative has been appointed for her estate. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the decedent, the decedent’s estate, or the Trust will be forever barred unless presented to Eric R. Longman, Sole trustee of the Trust, within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. November 10, 2012 Eric R. Longman, Trustee of the Marion H. Longman Revocable Trust under a Declaration of Trust dated Sept. 7, 2000 15928 Woodlawn Beach, 77572409 Hickory Corners, Michigan 49060. FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: James Shoebridge and Janice L. Shoebridge, a Married Couple to CitiFinancial, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 27, 2006 and recorded August 4, 2006 in Instrument # 1168134 Barry County Records, Michigan on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Nine Thousand Three Hundred Fifteen Dollars and Fourteen Cents ($99,315.14) including interest 6% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on December 13, 2012 Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots numbers 379, and the East one-quarter of Lot 380, of the City (formerly Village) of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded Plat thereof. Commonly known as 414 W Mill St., Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 11/15/2012 CitiFinancial, Inc. Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-70642 (11-15)(12-06) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Pieter L. Boer aka Pieter Boer, a married man and Michelle M. Boer aka Michelle Boer, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Birmingham Bancorp Mortgage Corporation its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated June 15, 2007, and recorded on July 17, 2007 in instrument 1183038, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fifty-Two Thousand Three Hundred Fifty-Seven and 68/100 Dollars ($152,357.68). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on December 13, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner of Section 25, Town 1 North, Range 10 West, and running thence South 00 degrees 21 minutes 32 seconds West, 1063.95 feet; thence South 87 degrees 35 minutes 50 seconds East 690.44 feet for the place of beginning of land herein after described; thence continuing South 87 degrees 35 minutes 50 seconds East, 309.56 feet; thence South 34 degrees 59 minutes 27 seconds West 324.39 feet; thence on a nontangent curve to the right with a radius of 531.16 feet; a central angle of 18 degrees 11 minutes 32 seconds, chord bearing a distance of North 55 degrees 04 minutes 11 seconds West, 59.97 feet a distance of 60 feet thence continuing on a curve to the right with a radius of 185.65 feet, a central angle of 46 degrees 37 minutes 28 seconds, chord bearing and distance North 28 degrees 31 minutes 28 seconds, West 146.94 feet, a distance of 151.07 feet; thence North 05 degrees 12 minutes 34 seconds West, 70.01 feet; thence on a curve to the right with a radius of 159.28 feet; a central angle of 16 degrees 28 minutes 14 seconds chord bearing and distance North 03 degrees 01 minutes 33 seconds East 45.65 feet, a distance of 45.79 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 15, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #364848F02 77572328 (11-15)(12-06) NOTICE TO CREDITORS Social Security Number of Decedent: XXX-XX1757. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Your interest in the estate may be barred or affected by the following: The decedent, Francis S. Rock, date of birth 2/11/1921, whose last address was 11611 Rock Drive, Middleville, MI 49333 died on September 28, 2011. The decedent was the settlor of the Francis Rook Trust dated October 12, 1999. There is no personal representative of the settlor’s estate to whom Letters of Authority have been issued. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the trust estate will be forever barred unless presented to the current acting trustee (whose name and address appear below) of the Trust within four (4) months of the date of publication of this notice. The current acting trustee is: Phillip H. Rock, 428 Michigan Avenue, South Haven, MI 49090. Notice is further given that the trust estate will be thereafter assigned and distributed to the persons entitled to it. Dated: October 3, 2012 Attorney for Trustee: David G. Ledbetter, P43671 Law Offices of David G. Ledbetter 1695 Service Road NE Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503 77572416 (616) 459-3333 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Robin Clemens and Timothy J. Clemens, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Beneficial Michigan Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 7, 2005, and recorded on January 10, 2005 in instrument 1139992, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fourteen Thousand Two Hundred Three and 85/100 Dollars ($114,203.85). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on December 13, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 9 and Lot 10, Block 12 of Daniel Striker's Addition except the West 1/2 of Lot 9, according to the recorded Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats of Page 11. Subject to easements, building and use restrictions of record. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 15, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #413940F01 77572434 (11-15)(12-06) NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE STEPHEN L. LANGELAND, P.C. A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTENTION PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has occurred in a Mortgage made by Jason E. Gleason and Frances J. Gleason to Omni Family Credit Union n/k/a Omni Community Credit Union dated December 12, 2002, and recorded on December 18, 2002 at Document No. 1093911 Barry County Records. No proceedings have been instituted to recover any part of the debt, secured by the mortgage or any part thereof and the amount now claimed to be due on the debt is $76,734.93. The Mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the property at public auction to the highest bidder, for cash, on December 13, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., local time, at the East entrance, Barry County Courthouse, Hastings, Michigan. The property will be sold to pay the amount then due on the Mortgage, together with interest at 5.75% per annum, legal costs, attorney fees, and also any taxes or insurance or other advances and expenses due under mortgage or permitted under Michigan law. The property to be sold is described as: Located in Barry County, Michigan: A tract of land commencing at the SW corner of the SE 1/4 of S9, T1N, R7W; thence N 400 feet; thence E 300 feet; Thence S 400 feet; thence W 300 feet to the point of beginning. Which has the address of: 7543 Cox Rd., Bellevue, MI 49021. During the six months immediately following the sale the property may be redeemed, unless determined to be abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241(a), in which case the redemption period shall be thirty (30) days from the date of sale. Dated: November 12, 2012 OMNI Community Credit Union By: Stephen L. Langeland (P32583) BUSINESS ADDRESS: Stephen L. Langeland, P.C. Attorney at Law 6146 W. Main St., Ste. C Kalamazoo, MI 49009 77572464 269/382-3703 McDowell issues sentence in bar-fight death Merwin Sam Sutherland was sentenced in Circuit Court Nov. 7 for assault and battery. Judge Amy McDowell ordered Sutherland, 37, to serve 45 days in jail with credit for one day served. Sutherland, of Lake Odessa, faced charges of involuntary manslaughter for the alleged assault on 51-year-old Randy Baker, also of the Woodland area. Sutherland was accused of punching Baker outside of the Woodland Townhouse Bar in the early hours of Jan. 7. The punch and Baker’s .23 percent blood alcohol level allegedly made the man stumble backward, fall and hit his head on the street. Baker was taken to Spectrum Health and remained in a coma for seven days before dying Jan. 14. “It was a tragedy for everyone,” said Carol Jones-Dwyer, attorney for the defense. “But, it was not criminal.” Sutherland must pay $648 in court assessments and serve 24 months on probation. He also was ordered by McDowell to participate in substance abuse testing, attend Alcoholics Anonymous three times a week and complete anger management courses. COURT NEWS Robert Charles Rowan II of Charlotte pleaded no contest in circuit court Nov. 7 and was sentenced for criminal sexual conduct, first degree. Judge Amy McDowell ordered Rowan, 32, to serve 12 months in jail with credit for 82 days served. He must pay $1,698 in court assessments and serve 60 months on probation. The last two months of his jail sentence will be suspended upon successful completion of probation. Rowan must pay $75 a month toward court assessments. POLICE BEAT Breaking up is hard to do Hastings Police were called to the 400 block of West State Street Nov. 11 regarding a physical dispute. Officers met with the victim who said he had gone to his ex-girlfriend’s house, and the two started to argue about him moving out. He said he was moving items to his vehicle when the girlfriend started to argue and punched his vehicle. They argued, he said, and the girlfriend slapped his face. When police questioned the 23-year-old woman she told them the man had “got in her face” and she slapped him. After completing the investigation, police placed the woman under arrest for domestic violence. Lights on Broadway are red and blue After seeing a vehicle drive through a red light at the intersection of Woodlawn Avenue and North Broadway Nov. 10, Hastings officers followed the vehicle south on Broadway and watched as it nearly struck a curb and accelerated to approximately 65 mph. They stopped the car near Apple Street and reportedly could smell a strong odor of intoxicants while talking with the 23-year-old Hastings driver. The officer asked the driver if he knew why he was being stopped. He told Officers that he drank five beers and two shots. The man’s breath test registered .27 percent blood alcohol level. He was placed under arrest and is charged under the “super drunk” law. Surveillance is key to crime Hastings Police spoke with an employee at Richie’s Koffee Shop who reported a significant scratch on her vehicle. She said she parked her vehicle behind the business at 4 a.m., and when she returned at approximately 1 p.m., she noticed a deep scratch on the back door of the driver’s side. She said she was positive the scratch had not been there before since she had just purchased the vehicle. A surveillance camera showed a man walk up to the victim’s car with an object in his hand and scrape the back door before putting the object back in his pocket. Police identified and interviewed the man who admitted to being in the area, but denied doing any damage to the vehicle. This investigation will be turned over to the Barry County Prosecutor’s office for review. Identity used in Land of Lincoln Barry County Deputies were contacted Oct. 29 by a Hastings woman who told them someone was using her Social Security number. The woman said she filed for unemployment in February, and at the time the unemployment office noticed an error and said someone was possibly using her Social Security number. She filed a complaint with the Michigan Unemployment Commission. She told deputies she had heard nothing on the matter since that time, but recently she was contacted by the commission, informing her they may have found the suspect in Illinois. The commission employee requested she file a police report and the commission would turn the confidential information over to law enforcement. The Michigan Unemployment Commission and law enforcement are now working to locate the suspect. The case remains open. Large-caliber bullet punctures garage A deputy was called Nov. 10 to a Wild Flower Drive home in Hastings in reference to a gun shot. The caller said he had been sit- ting in his tree stand the previous evening and heard the people on the next street shooting a .22 semi-automatic. The man told deputies he thought some of the shots had come close to him and heard one of the shots hit his house. He said he yelled at the people to stop. They apologized and quit shooting, he said. The following morning, the man discovered that a bullet had gone in one side of his garage and out the other. At the shooter’s home, the deputy found a small earth berm with a bale of straw at its base. In the distance, the deputy could see the roof of the complainant’s house. The man told the deputy his tree stand was just northeast of his house. When the deputy spoke with the suspected shooter, she said her friend was shooting a .357 into the bale and shot high. The woman said she is familiar with gun safety and had stopped shooting immediately. She said she did not want her young friend to get in trouble. The parties discussed the incident and no charges will be filed. Woman finds flat tires and broken window A Middleville woman called Barry County Deputies to file a malicious destruction of property report. She told deputies when getting into her car on Greenwood Street she noticed that one of the tires was flat. Then she noticed her other vehicle had a smashed window and a flat tire. Deputies found no apparent holes in the tires, but asked if she would have the tire store inspect the tires. The tire store found small punctures in each tire. Damage is estimated at $500. Shadows in the headlights leave damage A Delton woman on Perch Point Drive contacted deputies Nov. 4 to report that her pole barn had been vandalized. Deputies reported that the jam on the west entry door was cracked and the door sprung, plus the two-car garage door was wide open. A neighbor reported seeing a large Blazer-like vehicle near the property and a person walking back and forth in the headlights the night before. The neighbor had also noticed the following day that the pole barn’s garage door was open, but thought the activity was the owner or her son. The women said neither she nor her son were in the pole barn that day. Deputies reported that the garage door opener had been disconnected and the garage door sensors knocked out of place. Nothing was reported missing in the pole barn. Deputies have the name of a person of interest. Old photos lead to new violence A woman arrived at the Barry County Sheriff’s office Nov. 7 crying and hysterical at times, telling deputies she had an argument with her fiancé. She told deputies during the argument the 35-year-old Delton man threw her on the bed and began to choke her. Deputies reported seeing broken blood vessels on the woman’s neck and a bruised wrist. The woman said she fought back, scratching the man’s face. She told deputies she then left the Mullen Road home in Orangeville Township. When deputies spoke with the man, he admitted the argument had turned physical and said it was possible he had grabbed her in the upper chest or neck area. He said she was upset about some boxes of his high school items in the garage, and she went out of control. He told deputies he had let the woman take all her belongings and they returned house keys to each other before parting. The man also let the woman use his debit card to put minutes on her cell phone before leaving the house. The man was arrested for domestic violence, and the case is pending review by the prosecutor’s office. Girlfriend is protective of cigarettes Deputies and Barry Township Police were called Nov. 10 to East Shore Drive in Johnstown Township for a reported verbal dispute. The deputy spoke with a woman who said she and her boyfriend had been drinking beer all day and were intoxicated. She said her boyfriend gets mean when he consumes alcohol, and after an argument started, he alleged pushed her down. The woman refused to take a portable breath test. When the deputy spoke with the 67year-old man, he said his girlfriend started the argument by accusing him of taking her cigarettes. Reportedly, the argument lasted for about an hour before he knocked her down. The man’s Breathalyzer registered .15 percent. He was placed under arrest for domestic violence, and a charging request has been filed. Father tells son to get a life Deputies were called to a Cloverdale Lake Drive residence Nov. 5 on a report of domestic assault. According to the Delton man, he had gone into his 19-year-old son’s room and asked him to get his life together, which started an argument. Reportedly, there was yelling and shoving, then the son threw his father’s car keys into the lake. That’s when the father called 911 to report the incident. He told deputies at some point during the argument his eye-glasses had been knocked off and his thumb was cut. When deputies arrived, the son had left the house. The father told deputies he wanted his son out of the house and he wanted him arrested for assault. Deputies told the father he would need to go through an eviction process. Following up the next day, deputies were unable to located the son and his father had not seen him since the altercation on the previous evening. A charging request was made to the prosecutor’s office for domestic violence alleged committed by the son. Hooded man gets gas and goes A cashier at the Orangeville Fast Stop reported that a man in a dark-colored hoodie pumped $77 of gas into a red SUV and drove off on Marsh Road Nov. 12. She said the man, whom she said was in his 30s, had been in the store three days prior to the theft. Deputies will examine video surveillance from the store. Further information is pending. Unwanted guest reported in basement Deputies were called to a home on South M-66 near Nashville for a reported breaking and entering in progress around 11 p.m. Nov. 6 . The 911 caller said a man was inside his home. He told dispatchers his garage door was open, the water pump was running and lights were on in the basement. He had left the house with his girlfriend and thought he saw a shadow through the basement window, and then saw a man in the basement. He said the man had black hair, a full black beard, wrinkles and gray eyebrows. The caller also reported seeing a flashlight in his barn, and said his dog was missing. When the first deputy arrived, the homeowner said he saw no one leave the house or barn. When two more deputies arrived, the residence was checked, with nobody discovered. Deputies found the garage entry door jam had been damaged. The Michigan State Police K9 unit was requested. Nothing was found missing in the home or barn, and there was no damage other than the garage entry door. The case is inactive. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 15, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF A MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on June 11, 2004, by Jeffrey L. Noteboom and Diane M. Noteboom, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, given by them to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on June 17, 2004, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 1129483, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank by an Assignment of Mortgage dated February 29, 2012, recorded on March 8, 2012, in Instrument Number 201203080002412, Barry County Records, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of One Hundred One Thousand Five Hundred Fifty-Four and 56/100 Dollars ($101,554.56); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, December 13, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF HASTINGS, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: Lot 17 and the West half of Lot 18 of East-Mar-Heights, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats on Page 22, Hastings Township, Barry County, Michigan. Commonly known as: 1630 Boulder Drive, Hastings, Michigan 49058 Parcel Number: 08-06-225-017-00 The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: November 1, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933 (517) 37177572291 8253 (11-08)(11-29) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by David T. Gross and April I. Gross, as husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to SBC Mortgage, LLC, Mortgagee, dated December 10, 2001, and recorded on January 9, 2002 in instrument 1072786, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Chemical Bank f/k/a Chemical Bank and Trust Company as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Nine Thousand Nine Hundred Eighty-Five and 73/100 Dollars ($69,985.73). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on December 13, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Beginning at the Southeast corner of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 16, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, thence West 206.25 feet, thence North 206.25 feet, thence East 206.25 feet, thence South 206.25 feet to beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 15, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #404590F04 77572451 (11-15)(12-06) IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT 248-5021502. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Adam Howe and Holly Howe, husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns., Mortgagee, dated December 18, 2008 and recorded January 8, 2009 in Instrument Number 20090108-0000184, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Wells Fargo Bank, NA by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Nine Thousand Three Hundred Fifty-Five and 11/100 Dollars ($129,355.11) including interest at 6.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 12/13/2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Legal description: Township of Rutland, County of Barry, Michigan Beginning at a point on the East Section 11, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, distant South 00 degrees 18 minutes 52 seconds West 1906.22 feet from the Northeast corner of said Section 11; thence South 00 degrees 18 minutes 52 seconds West 478.22 feet along said East line to the centerline of West State Road; thence North 74 degrees 54 minutes 04 seconds West 104.71 feet along said centerline; thence continuing Northwesterly 330.11 feet along said centerline and the arc of a curve to the right, the radius of which is 764.48 feet and the chord of which bears North 62 feet 31 minutes 51 seconds West 327.55 feet; thence continuing along said centerline North 50 degrees 09 minutes 37 seconds West 184.50 feet to the East line of Hillcrest Road as shown on the Plat of Buenavista Heights as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats, Page 108; thence North 39 degrees 44 minutes 16 seconds East 104.16 feet (recorded as 71.13 feet) along said East line of Hillcrest Road; thence South 68 degrees 30 minutes 40 seconds East 75.00 feet; thence North 22 degrees 14 minutes 09 seconds East 3.93 feet; thence South 64 degrees 35 minutes 56 seconds East 44.67 feet; 52 degrees 24 minutes 41 seconds East 46.64 feet; thence North 35 degrees 20 minutes 00 seconds East 24.09 feet; thence South 58 degrees 26 minutes 57 seconds East 7.71 feet; thence North 32 degrees 40 minutes 03 seconds East 120.08 feet; thence North 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East 235.77 feet to the point of beginning. Subject to an easement for public highway purposes over the Southwesterly 33 feet thereof for West State Road. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: November 15, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 326.9994 (11-15)(12-06) 77572492 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by James W. Warner Jr, a/k/a Jim Warner a single man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated March 12, 2008, and recorded on March 20, 2008 in instrument 20080320-003150, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Nine Thousand Two Hundred SixtyTwo and 58/100 Dollars ($99,262.58). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on December 13, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Beginning At A Point On The EastWest Line Of Section 18, Town 2 North, Range 10 West, Orangeville Township, Barry County, Michigan; Distant North 89 Degrees 59 Minutes East 907.74 Feet From The West 1/4 Post Of Said Section 18; Thence Continuing North 89 Degrees 59 Minutes East Along Said 1/4 Line 239.22 Feet; Thence South 00 Degree 47 Minutes 10 Seconds East 160.00 Feet To The East Line Of The West Fractional 1/2 Of The Southwest 14 Of Said Section 18: Thence South 89 Degrees 59 Minutes West 140.00 Feet; Thence South 00 Degrees 47 Minutes 10 Seconds East 30.00 Feet; Thence South 89 Degrees 59 Minutes West 125.00 Feet: Thence North 00 Degrees 47 Minutes 10 Seconds West 89.68 Feet; Thence North 89 Degrees 59 Minutes East 25.78 Feet; Thence North 00 Degrees 47 Minutes 10 Seconds West 100.32 Feet To The Place Of Beginning. Subject To Easement For Public Highway Purposes Over The Northerly 33 Feet Thereof For Saddler Road And The Easterly 33 Feet Thereof For Dennison Road. Beginning At A Point On East-West 1/4 Line, Section 18, Town 2 North, Range 10 West Distant North 89 Degrees 59 Minutes 00 Seconds East 660.00' From The West 1/4 Post Said Section 18, Thence Continuing North 89 Degrees 59 Minutes 00 Seconds East Along Said 1/4 Line 486.96, Thence South 00 Degrees 47 Minutes 10 Seconds East 238.46', Thence North 89 Degrees 59 Minutes 47 Seconds West 165.00, Thence North 00 Degrees 47 Minutes 10 Seconds West 16.03, Thence North 89 Degrees 59 Minutes 47 Seconds West 323.41, Thence North 00 Degrees 24 Minutes 48 Seconds West 222.24' To Point Of Beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 15, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #414615F01 77572322 (11-15)(12-06) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Carl Forsythe, an unmarried man and Tammy L. Peters, an unmarried woman to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for America's Wholesale Lender its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated August 17, 2006 and recorded August 28, 2006 in Instrument # 1169197 Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage was assigned to: BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, LP, by assignment dated March 29, 2011 and recorded April 15, 2011 in Instrument # 201104150004237 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Seventy-Two Thousand Six Hundred Twenty Dollars and NinetyFive Cents ($172,620.95) including interest 7.125% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on November 29, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The East 132 feet of the West 30 acres of the North one half of the Southeast one quarter of Section 32, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, except the North 583 feet thereof; also the South 208.71 feet of the West 181 feet of the East 313 feet thereof. Also a strip of land described as: The North one half of the Southeast one quarter of Section 32, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, except the West 30 acres thereof. Also except the East 50 acres thereof. Commonly known as 11377 Davis Rd, Middleville MI 49333 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 10/25/2012 Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, LP fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, LP, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File 77572033 No: 12-69983 (10-25)(11-15) IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT 248-5021502. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by William G Mosher, Samantha L Mosher, husband and wife, to Fifth Third mortgage - MI, LLC, Mortgagee, dated September 16, 2005 and recorded September 19, 2005 in Instrument Number 1153026, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Fifth Third Mortgage Company by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Four Thousand Eight Hundred Forty-Two and 90/100 Dollars ($104,842.90) including interest at 6% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 11/29/2012. Said premises are located in the Village of Freeport, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the Village of Freeport, County of Barry, State of Michigan: Lots 3 and 4 of Block 11 of Samuel Roush's Addition to the Village of Freeport, according to the recorded plat thereof, being a part of the North 1/2 of Section 1, Town 4 North, Range 9 West. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: November 1, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 200.9462 (11-01)(11-22) 77572092 SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by ERIC W. BEADLE and JODI S. BEADLE, HUSBAND AND WIFE, to MORTGAGE PLUS OF AMERICA CORPORATION, Mortgagee, dated September 25, 2002, and recorded on October 8, 2002, in Document No. 1088998, and assigned by said mortgagee to U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Four Thousand Four Hundred Twenty-Four Dollars and Forty-Nine Cents ($124,424.49), including interest at 6.250% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on November 29, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: COMMENCING AT THE WEST 1 / 4 POST OF SECTION 28, TOWN 1 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST, THENCE WEST 107.00 FEET TO THE CENTERLINE OF BANFIELD ROAD; THENCE SOUTH 28 DEGREES 00 MINUTES EAST ALONG SAID CENTERLINE 1414.00 FEET TO THE TRUE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE SOUTH 28 DEGREES 00 MINUTES EAST, ALONG SAID CENTERLINE OF BANFIELD ROAD, 500.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 62 DEGREES 00 MINUTES EAST 383.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 28 DEGREES 00 MINUTES WEST 500.00 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 62 DEGREES 00 MINUTES WEST 383.00 FEET TO THE TRUE PLACE OF BEGINNING. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 77572245 USB.002825 FHA (11-01)(11-22) Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Joseph A Lively, a married man and Laura Lively, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registrations Systems, Inc., as nominee for Centennial Mortgage and Funding, Inc. its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated December 14, 2007, and recorded on December 20, 2007 in instrument 20071220-0005400, and modified by Affidavit or Order recorded on June 27, 2012 in instrument 2012-001648, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ninety-Four Thousand Four Hundred Sixty-Five and 36/100 Dollars ($194,465.36). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on November 29, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel 1: A parcel of land in the Southeast 1/4 of Section 18, Town 1 North, Range 9 West, described as: beginning at a point on the East and West 1/4 Line of said Section 18, which lies 1955 feet due West of the East 1/4 post of said Section 18, Thence South 225 feet; thence West 175 feet; thence North 225 feet; thence East 175 feet to the place of beginning. Parcel 2: Commencing at a point on the East and West 1/4 line of Section 18, Town 1 North, Range 9 West, which lies 1825 feet West of the East 1/4 post of said Section 18; thence South at right angels to said East and West 1/4 line 225 feet; thence West parallel with said East and West 1/4 line 130 feet; thence North 225 feet to said East and West 1/4; thence East 130 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 1, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #379217F02 (11-01)(11-22) 77572109 For Sale National Ads Help Wanted AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 TOTAL WOOD HEATSafe, clean, efficient & comfortable. Classic Outdoor Wood Furnace from Central Boiler. Call SOS your “Stocking Dealer” Dutton, MI (616)554-8669 or (616)9155061. THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is deceptive, fraudulent or might otherwise violate law or accepted standards of taste. However, this publication does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the quality of goods or services advertised. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made in any advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you ask for money in advance of delivery of goods or services advertised. Estate Sale Business Services COMMUNITY LIVING SUPPORT SPECIALIST for mental health treatment program. Job responsibilities include assisting in rehabilitation, recreational skills, and other duties related to program implementation. Experience in working with persons with developmental disabilities and mental illness helpful. Record keeping and data collection and entry skills desired. Clean driving record and ability to obtain Chauffeur’s license required. Send resume to Barry County Community Mental Health Authority, 915 West Green Street, Hastings, Michigan, 49058 or email jobs@bccmha.org. No phone calls. EOE. ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. BASEMENT WATERPROOFING: PROFESSIONAL BASEMENT SERVICES waterproofing, crack repair, mold remediation. Local/licensed. Free estimates. (517)290-5556. DON’T PAY HIGH heating bills. Eliminate them with an OUTDOOR WOOD FURNACE from Central Boiler. D-2 Outdoor Wood Boilers. (616)877-4081. For Rent MIDDLE LAKE RENTAL: 1BD apartment. All appliances included, washer, dryer, central air. 1st months rent plus security deposit. Call Joe (269)838-2650. Real Estate LOOKING FOR A caring, trustworthy, reliable independent female full time 5 days/24 hours, Sunday PM through Friday PM every week (weekends off) to stay with mom in her home in the Yankee Springs area. No certifications required. Would like references and history. Please leave name and number at (269)8383449. HASTINGS GREAT ACREAGE 70 rolling, wooded w/stream. Private location to build custom home or cabin. Priced to sell!!! ROOM FOR RENT $280,000. Call Bill Sikkema GET EASY CASH with ex$300/month, (269)672-6129. 269-488-0576, Prudential tra household goods and Preferred Realtors. tools. Advertise with classiWALL LAKE, DELTON: 2 fieds in the Reminder and bedroom apartment. ReferRecreation Hastings Banner. Phone ences & deposit. No pets, (269)945-9554. 269-623-8218. WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are inPUBLISHER’S NOTICE: terested in leasing acreage All real estate advertising in this newsfor this years deer season. paper is subject to the Fair Housing Act Call (269)795-3049 and the Michigan Civil Rights Act Help Wanted DRIVERS: CDL-A DEDICATED Lanes Company Drivers & Owner Operators. Team & Singles. $1,000 SignOn Bonus for 0/0. Fuel Discount. Safety Bonus Program. Excellent Fuel Surcharge. Open Board Drivers40 CPM. 6 months verifiable exp. 800-599-0087. NEED BUSINESS CARDS, envelopes, brochures or more? Call J-Ad Graphics at (269)945-9554. which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 Call 945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads �Page 12 — Thursday, November 15, 2012 — The Hastings Banner TK fills more than half of all-county girls’ XC team by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Delton Kellogg’s varsity girls’ cross country program has made a habit of reaching the Division 3 Lower Peninsula State Championship in recent years. They had some company in Division 2 this year. Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity girls’ cross country team finally emerged from its annual brutal regional to earn its first appearance as a team in the state finals since 2002. The Trojans finished fourth at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn Nov. 3, with sophomore Melissa Winchester earning the area’s only state medal. It was depth that got the Trojans to the finals, and helped them win an OK Gold Conference championship along the way. Delton Kellogg’s girls were 27th at the Division 3 state finals, after a runner-up finish in the Kalamazoo Valley Association. Those were the big team highlights of the 2012 girls’ cross country season for the Barry County schools. Thornapple Kellogg’s girls won the Barry County Championship Oct. 29, at the meet they hosted in Middleville. TK put four girls among the top seven and four others among the second seven to hit the finish line. The top seven at the Barry County Meet earned All-Barry County First Team honors this fall, while finishers eight through 14 have been named to the all-county second team. Girls’ Cross Country First Team Olivia Lamberg, Thornapple Kellogg: A freshman who was a big part of the Trojan team’s surge this fall, regularly finishing as her team’s third scorer. She was fifth at the Barry County Meet in 20:58.1. Barker was only one spot further back at the OK Gold Meet, placing sixth in 20:31.6 at Johnson Park. She was 61st at the state finals in 19:30.9. Casey Lawson, Thornapple Kellogg: The Trojan senior came up just short of earning her third state medal this fall, placing 37th at the Division 2 State Championship with a time of 18:58.7. Lawson was fourth at both the Barry County Meet and the OK Gold Meet. She fin- The 2012 All-Barry County girls’ cross country first and second teams. First team members are (front from left) Trista Straube (HHS), Melissa Winchester (TK), Jessica Rushford (MV), Casey Lawson (TK), Olivia Lamberg (TK), Ariel Moore (HHS) and Janie Noah (TK). Second team members are (back from left) Shelbi Shepherd (TK), Taylor Ward (TK), Bryn Beyer (TK), Rachel Rimer (HHS), Morgan McNutt (TK) and Maria Palacio (HHS). Missing from photo is second team member Christi Boze from Delton Kellogg. (Photo by Brett Bremer) ished the county meet in Middleville with a time of 20:48.3. Ariel Moore, Hastings: Running second for the Saxons most of the season, Moore was sixth at the Barry County Meet in 21:27.1. Moore had a great day at the OK Gold Meet, earning a medal with her ninth-place time of 21:23.9 at Johnson Park. Janie Noah, Thornapple Kellogg: Noah was the fourth Trojan to hit the finish line at the Barry County Meet, placing seventh in 21:34.7. A sophomore, her place at the county meet was the same as her freshman year. She moved way up in the OK Gold though, placing seventh at the conference meet in 21:09.5. Jessica Rushford, Maple Valley: A senior, she capped off her career with a 45th-place time of 19:39.8 in her third appearance in the Division 3 State Finals. That time was a new personal best. Rushford was third at the Barry County Meet, hitting the finish line in 20:38.8. She was also third at the KVA Championship, coming in at 19:52. Trista Straube, Hastings: The fastest Saxon just missed out on a second trip to the state finals in her junior season as she placed 16th at her team’s Division 2 Regional Meet. She came back with a vengeance to win the Barry County Meet in 20:08.3. Straube was the third-place finisher at the OK Gold Meet this season, coming in at 19:25.6. Melissa Winchester, Thornapple Kellogg: Winchester finished off a great sophomore season by making her first appearance in the state finals and earning her first state medal. She was 24th with a time of 18:38.2 at the Division 2 state championship in Brooklyn. Winchester was the runner-up at both the Barry County Meet (20:20.4) and the OK Gold Conference Meet (19:18.9) this fall. Girls’ Cross Country Second Team Bryn Beyer, Thornapple Kellogg: Beyer was tenth at the Barry County Meet with a time of 22:16.3. She helped the Trojans to their conference title with a 12th-place time of 21:40.9 at the OK Gold Conference Meet, and went on to place 152nd at the Division 2 State Finals with a time of 20:32.4. Christi Boze, Delton Kellogg: The Panthers’ senior leader, Boze closed out her high school running career by placing 102nd at the Division 3 State Finals with a time of 20:30.7. She was all-conference this season in the KVA, after placing fifth at the league’s championship meet with a time of 20:00. Boze was 11th at the county meet in 22:20.8. Morgan McNutt, Thornapple Kellogg: Not a regular scorer for the deep Trojan varsity team this fall, but someone who pushed the pack. McNutt was the eighth Trojan to finish at the Barry County Meet, but was 13th overall in 22:37.7. Maria Palacio, Hastings: A senior who ran a solid time of 22:19.0 at the Saxons’ Division 2 Regional Meet, to place 71st. She was 14th at the Barry County Meet in 22:54.7. Rachel Rimer, Hastings: The third in a trio of juniors who led Hastings all fall, Rimer was 12th at the Barry County Meet in 22:21.2. Rimer was the third Saxon to place at regionals and at the OK Gold Meet as well, her time of 21:30.7 put her in 56th place at her team’s Division 2 Regional hosted by Carson City-Crystal. Shelbi Shepherd, Thornapple Kellogg: A few seconds behind teammate Noah for the final spot on the all-county first team, Shepherd was eighth at the county meet in 21:47.9. She was one of five Trojans in the top eight at the OK Gold Meet as well, placing eighth at Johnson Park in 21:23.6. Taylor Ward, Thornapple Kellogg: One of three sophomores in the top seven for the Trojan team, Ward was ninth at the Barry County Meet in 22:12.4. She ran a time of 20:49.0 to place 167th at the Division 2 State Finals, after running a 21:13.0 that put her in 46th-place at her team’s Division 2 Regional Meet. Two of county’s fastest ended year at state finals by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Most of the best runners from Barry County’s varsity boys’ cross country teams walked off the course this season with an eye to the future. Only four seniors were among the top 14 runners at the Barry County Meet, which was held Oct. 29 at Thornapple Kellogg High School in Middleville. Only one of those four, Delton Kellogg’s Jarryd Calhoun, was among the top seven who earned first team all-county status for this season. Calhoun was one of two local runners to run again after the county meet, at the Lower Peninsula Cross Country Championship the following Saturday at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn. Calhoun ran in the Division 3 race, while Thornapple Kellogg junior David Walter took part in the Division 2 race. It was the first time running in the state finals for both of them. Walter led a young Trojan team, which included one senior, two freshmen and two sophomores, to the championship at the county meet this season. The Trojans edged their OK Gold Conference rivals from Hastings by just three points. Here are the 2012 All-Barry County boys’ cross country teams. Boys’ Cross Country First Team Micah Bromley, Maple Valley: Bromley earned honorable mention All-KVA this fall, placing 16th at the KVA Championship in Portage with a time of 18:04. Bromley was seventh at the Barry County Meet in 18:56.8. Jarryd Calhoun, Delton Kellogg: A senior, Calhoun earned his first trip to the Division 3 Lower Peninsula Cross Country Championship this fall. He placed 130th in the finals race at MIS with a time of 17:36.8. Calhoun was fourth at the Barry County Meet, coming in at 18:41.8. He was fifth at the KVA Championship in Portage with a time of 17:22. Ronnie Collins, Hastings: Chance Miller, Hastings: Jake Miller, Hastings: Austin Rood, Maple Valley: Rood was the Lions’ leader at the Barry County Meet in Middleville, placing sixth in 18:51.6. He earned honorable mention All-KVA this fall with his 17th-place finish at the conference championship meet, where he finished the course at Portage West Middle School in 18:08. David Walter, Thornapple Kellogg: Boys’ Cross Country Second Team Sam Benedict, Maple Valley: The final second team qualifier, Benedict placed 14th at the Barry County Meet in 19:19.0. On the fast course in Portage, Benedict earned a 25th-place finish at the KVA Championship meet with his time of 18:38. Joe Gaikema, Thornapple Kellogg: One of four Trojans to come across the finish line in less than a ten second span at the county meet, Gaikema was ninth in 19:04.9. A freshman, he was fifth on the team and 71st overall at the Trojans’ Division 2 Regional Meet where he finished in 18:48.0. Zach Haas, Delton Kellogg: The Delton senior finished off an injury plagued season with a 13th-place time of 19:14.5 at the Barry County Meet. He just made the cut-off for honorable mention All-KVA, placing 21st at the league’s championship meet with a time of 18:20 in Portage. Austin LaVire, Thornapple Kellogg: A senior who moved up and down in the Trojan pack. He was second on his team at its Division 2 Regional Meet, placing 41st in 17:46.1. LaVire was tenth at the Barry County Meet in 19:10.6. Conor Leach, Thornapple Kellogg: Leach, a sophomore, placed eighth at the Barry County Meet with a time of 19:02.9. He was well under the 19-minute mark at his team’s Division 2 Regional Meet, placing 66th in 18:40.9. Daniel Sauers, Lakewood: The Vikings’ leader when he wasn’t playing soccer, Sauers placed 12th at the Barry County Meet in 19:12.0. He also paced the Viking pack at its Call any time for Hastings Banner ads Call 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 to place your ad! The 2012 All-Barry County boys’ cross country teams. First team members include (front from left) David Walter (TK), Ronnie Collins (HHS), Chance Miller (HHS), Jarryd Calhoun (DK), Jake Miller (HHS), Austin Rood (MV) and Micah Bromley (MV). Second team members include (back from left) Conor Leach (TK), Joe Gaikema (TK), Austin LaVire (TK), Daniel Vannette (TK), Daniel Sauers (LHS), Zach Haas (DK) and Sam Benedict (MV). (Photo by Brett Bremer) Division 2 Regional Meet hosted by Carson City-Crystal, placing 77th in 19:10.4. Daniel Vannette, Thornapple Kellogg: A senior, Vannette was the second fastest Trojan at the OK Gold Conference Meet, placing 12th overall in 18:31.0. He was 11th at the Barry County Meet in 19:11.2. BOWLING SCORES Sunday Night Mixed Comebacks 25; Street Bowlers 22; You’re Up N Shit 20; H2O 20; Sunday Snoozers 16; Straightliners 16; Heath Gang 11. Women’s good games and series - S. Vandenburg 202-570; M. Daniels 221-549; M. Simpson 170-461; K. Becker 190. Men’s good games and series - R. Guild 269-675; M. Snyder 191-556; C. Santana 199522; C. Featherly 177-459; J. Craven 148414; B. Hubbell 197; E. Bartlett 187; S. Jewell 172; B. Kelley 165; B. Heath 159; T. Demott 155. Tuesday Trios Washking 34-10; Sam 31-13; CBS 24-20; Team Turkey 23-21; Look Ins. 22-22; Classic Trio 22-22; Coleman Ins. 20-20; Lu’s Team 16.5-23.5; Blair Landscaping 16.5-27.5; Ghost Team 9-44. High Game - Karen 213; Tammy D. 194; Shirlee V. 193. High Series - Shirlee V 550; Tammy D 536; Luanne P. 519. Monday Mixerettes Dewey’s Auto Body 30-10; Dean’s Dolls 28-12; Kent Oil 25.5-14.5; Creekside Growers 17.5-22.5; Nashville Chiropractic 17-23. Good Games & Series: S. Dunham 173462; K. Fowler 188; P. Fowler 161; B. Anders 173; T. Redman 135; J. Rice 180; L. Elliston 187; M. Rodgers 180. Senior Citizens Sun Risers 28-12; Butterfingers 25.5-14.5; M&M’s 22-18; Usedtobe #1 22-18; King Pins 22-18; Three Gals & a Guy 20-20; Ward’s Friends 18-22; Kuempel 16-24; Just Having Fun 15.5-24.5; Early Risers 11-29. Women’s good games and series: Y. Cheeseman 156-437; G. Scobey 203-523; J. Gasper 189; B. Maker 174-468; A. Tasker 155; C. Stuart 158-439; M. Wieland 180; N. Frost 157-420. Men’s good games and series: K. Schantz 178; D. Kiersey 205-557; R. McDonald 204; B. Terry 213-547; B. Akers 191; P. Gasper 222; L. Markley 156-408; D. Murphy 158; W. Mallekoote 173-458. Wed PM Court Side 31-9; Boniface Construction 2515; Hair Care 25-15; Eye & ENT 21-19; Delton Suds 17-23. Good games & series: S. Stevens 131; A. Tasker 162-386; M. Adams 150-415; B. Norris 118-309; P. Shellington 146; S. Beebe 187; J. Rice 204-550; L. Elliston 196-508; T. Christopher 199-517; K. Moore 141-347; P. Freeman 148. Sat Majors (Youth League) Walking Dead 14.5-5.5; Kit Kats 13.5-6.5; Grimm Reapers 12.5-7.5; Leones 9-11; Saxons 8.5-11.5. Girl’s good games & series: S. Gross 94. Boy’s good games & series: K. Kenyon 124; B. Hall 168-377; K. Keegan 149-385; C. Stout 180; C. Davis 81-239. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 15, 2012 — Page 13 Vikes and Saxons finished golf season in top 10 by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Two thirds of the varsity girls’ golf teams in Barry County ended their season at the Division 3 State Finals at Bedford Valley Golf Course in Battle Creek. A tough conference season once again got the Saxons and Vikings ready for the postseason. Hastings placed seventh at the state finals and Lakewood tenth. Junior Kylee Nemetz led the way for the Saxons, making it the fifth consecutive season Hastings has had an all-state golfer. The Saxons and Vikings were both runners-up in their own conferences during the regular season. Hastings finished just behind South Christian, both in the OK Gold Conference standings and at the state finals Olivia Barker where the Sailors were sixth. Lakewood once again did battle with Lansing Catholic in the Capital Area Activities Conference White Division. The Cougars bested the Vikings for the conference crown, then bested everyone at the Division 4 State Finals - finishing 54 strokes ahead of the runner-up team. Here are the 2012 All-Barry County girls’ golf teams. Girls’ Golf First Team Emily Barker, Lakewood: With a great freshman season Barker helped the Vikings to their first appearance ever as a team in the Division 3 State Finals. She had a 9-hole average of 45.9 this season, and an 18-hole average of 91. She was all-conference in the CAAC-White and also won an all-academic award in the league. Katie Brown Olivia Barker, Lakewood: A junior, she made her second trip to the Division 3 State Finals this season. She led the Vikings each day at Bedford Valley Golf Course, shooting a 92-89-181. She had a 9-hole average of 43.5 this fall, and an 18-hole average of 89.7. She was allconference in the CAAC-White and also won an all-academic award in the league. Katie Brown, Hastings: Brown had a great junior season for the Saxons. Her twoday total of 176 at the Division 3 State Finals put her in 17th-place individually. Brown tied for fifth-place at the OK Gold Conference Tournament at The Meadows with a 92, and also tied teammate Lindy Kloosterman for sixth at their team’s Division 3 Regional Tournament with a score of 89. Victoria Hager, Lakewood: The Vikings’ number three all season, Hager had a 9-hole average of 47.2 and an 18-hole average of 97. A senior who was a three-year varsity player, Hager was all-conference in the CAACWhite this season and won the league’s allacademic award as well. Lindy Kloosterman, Hastings: Honorable mention in the OK Gold Conference this fall, missing a spot on the first team by just two strokes. Kloosterman tied teammate Katie Brown for sixth at the team’s Division 3 Regional Tournament with an 89, and also placed in the top 11 at four other tournaments throughout the course of the season including the OK Gold Championship where she was eighth with a 95. Kylee Nemetz, Hastings: An all-state golfer in Division 3, Nemetz tied for seventh at the Division 3 State Finals with her 85-84169. She won two tournaments through the course of the season, the Comstock Invitational at Yarrow, and then the OK Gold Tournament at The Meadows. She was third at her team’s Division 3 Regional Tournament at Angels Crossing, where she shot an 87. Girls’ Golf Second Team Kennedy Hilley, Lakewood: Hilley was honorable mention all-conference in the CAAC-White this fall, helping her team to a runner-up finish in the league. She shot a 107 at regionals to help her team get to the state finals, then shaved off a few strokes there with a 102-100-202 over the course of the 36-hole tournament. Hannah Lamberg, Thornapple Kellogg: Lamberg was 28th overall in the OK Gold, with a 9-hole average of 58.2. Lamberg led her team at the first OK Gold Conference jamboree of the season. Kylee Nemetz Emily Barker DeeJay Minor, Thornapple Kellogg: Minor was named the Trojans’ MVP this fall. She was 22nd in the OK Gold Conference standings with an average of 55.1 strokes per nine, and led her team with a 115 at the conference tournament at The Meadows. Amanda Sarhatt, Hastings: One of two seniors in the Saxons’ top five, Sarhatt contributed the fourth score for her team each day at the Division 3 State Finals. She also helped her team to a regional championship, shooting a 102 at Angels Crossing. Singles guys fill many spots for all-county tennis by Brett Bremer Sports Editor It was kind of a tough fall for the Barry County varsity boys’ tennis teams. All three schools, Hastings, Lakewood and Thornapple Kellogg, had some trouble filling their line-up at some point during the season. Hastings and Thornapple Kellogg finished in the middle of the pack in the OK Gold Conference, which was a little less tough than it had been in the past due to the fact that Forest Hills Eastern and Caledonia left the league this fall. Lakewood had a tough time in the Capital Area Activities Conference White Division, which had solid showings from Portland, Williamston and Lansing Catholic again. Those top three teams in the CAAC-White finished fifth, 11th and 12th respectively at the Division 4 State Finals. The three local teams were mostly young though, and showed improvement throughout the season. Here are the 2012 All-Barry County boys’ tennis teams. Boys’ Tennis First Team Singles Justin Bergstrom, Thornapple Kellogg: An all-conference performer in the OK Gold, Bergstrom was third at the conference tournament. He finished the year with 11 wins at second singles for the Trojans as a sophomore. Chris Doxtader, Hastings: Doxtader was a consistent second singles player for the Saxons as a senior, winning nine matches. “His ability to hit good passing shots with both his forehand and backhand was his strength,” said Hastings head coach Ed von der Hoff. “The team will miss Chris next year.” Parker Haskin, Lakewood: The Vikings’ third singles player was named honorable mention all-conference in the Capital Area Activities Conference White Division this fall. He won eight matches on the year, and was named the Vikings’ Most Improved Player. He also won his team’s Norm Harris Most Dedicated award. Travis Himick, Thornapple Kellogg: Himick took over at first singles for the Trojans this fall, and took on opponents’ top players each afternoon. He won four matches this fall. Himick was a team captain, and earned allconference honors in the OK Gold at the end of the season. Stephen Nisbet, Lakewood: The Vikings’ first singles player, a four-year varsity player, won five matches this fall. He was a co-captain for the Vikings and was named his team’s co-MVP. David Parks, Lakewood: A senior who shared co-MVP honors this season for the Vikings. He won ten matches this season and was named honorable mention all-conference in the CAAC-White. Parks was a four-year varsity letter-winner. Ryan Thornburgh, Hastings: Thornburgh won eight matches this year, split between fourth singles and second doubles. “Ryan keeps his composure as well as any player that I have encountered,” said coach von der Hoff. “His ability to execute solid shots will only get better in the future.” Logan VanPutten, Thornapple Kellogg: A freshman who just started playing tennis this summer, VanPutten finished the year with six wins at third singles for TK. Head coach Steve Rosenberg said that early in the year. Marshall Cherry and Scott Garber, Hastings: The Saxons’ sophomore duo at second doubles, they won half their matches this year and finished as the runners-up at a couple of tournaments. “Marshall plays a very consistent game that features many very good backcourt winners,” said coach von der Hoff. “He also has a good net game and is showing improvement with his serve. Jaleel is a very powerful player that punishes opposing net players. He has the uncanny ability to hit winning shots even when it looks like he is beat.” Jaleel Richardson and Adam Shaeffer, Hastings: A pair of freshmen who teamed up at third doubles mostly this fall and won ten matches. “Scott developed into a solid consistent player that was very effective at the service line, and Adam covered the court while returning winning shots with the forehand and backhand,” said coach von der Hoff. Chris Doxtader Travis Himick VanPutten continually showed improvement. He was named honorable mention all-conference in the OK Gold. Connor von der Hoff, Hastings: von der Hoff earned all-conference honors in the OK Gold this fall, playing first singles for the Saxons. A three-year varsity letter-winner as a junior, von der Hoff won nine matches this year. “Connor is very competitive and at times extremely difficult to score points against,” said coach von der Hoff. Drew White, Hastings: At third singles most of the year for the Saxons, the sophomore White was named his team’s Most Improved Player and earned honorable mention all-conference in the OK Gold. “Drew uses quick reflexes to return all shots and quickly develops winning shots,” said coach von der Hoff. “He also agitates his opponents with his uncanny ability to return very good shots.” Doubles Mack Clisso and James Isola, Hastings: A pair of juniors who formed a very good first doubles team for the Saxons. They had a winning record together for the year at first doubles, 8-7. “Mack learned to control his competitive instincts and hit many good forehand winners,” said coach von der Hoff. “James has a very good backhand and always displayed a positive attitude on the court.” Boys’ Tennis Connor von der Hoff Second Team Doubles Cade Bowman and Hunter Herich, Thornapple Kellogg: Started the year as the Trojans’ number two doubles team, but earned the spot as TK’s top doubles team Annual YMCA Turkey Trot will be held Thanksgiving The YMCA of Barry County, Pennock Health and Wellness and Barry County United Way will host the fourth annual Turkey Trot 5K Fun Run/Walk Thanksgiving morning, Nov. 22. Check-in begins at 7:30 a.m. and the race steps off at 8:30 a.m. on Buehler Road and finishes at Camp Algonquin. This annual event provides families a fun beginning to their Thanksgiving celebration, said Ryan Rose, Y program director. “Many families and individuals have made it a tradition to come out and walk or run as a start to the holiday’s festivities,” he said. “This is a great way to engage the whole family in a healthy way — both mentally and physically.” Although some money is raised for the United Way and Y, the event is more about healthy family fun and collecting food, said Rose, adding that typically about 300 pounds of food is gathered that morning. The race will include men’s and women’s divisions, along with three family divisions, based on ages of the children. The first family in each division to have three runners cross the finish line will be the winner of that division. Walkers will also be a part of the competition. Since the first year, walkers have been included in the prizes, Rose said, either as top walkers or as part of the raffle at the end of the race. The fee is $15 per person or $35 per family, up to four participants. Each extra family member will be an additional $5. As a part of the registration fee, each participant is asked to donate a non-perishable food item that will be given to the Barry County United Way Fresh Food Initiative, which helps provide additional food resources for families in need. Registration is still open. Although the early registration (and T-shirt guarantee) deadline has passed, Rose said the sooner people register, the better their chances are or receiving a T-shirt. Registrations and more information on the Turkey Trot are available at the YMCA website, www.ymcaofbc.org, or by visiting the Pennock Health and Wellness Center. �Page 14 — Thursday, November 15, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Vikes need just three sets to earn spot in semi’s by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Lakewood only needed three sets to knock off Berrien Springs Tuesday, and earn a spot in the Class B Semifinals. That didn’t mean the match was much easier than the back-to-back five-setters the Vikings played to get to the state quarterfinal match at Allegan High School. The Vikings topped the Shamrocks 26-24, 25-13, 29-27. “We were a little uptight, a little pressurestruck I believe, but when we buckled down as we did in the second game we play very well,” said Lakewood head coach Kellie Rowland. She Shamrocks’ big hitter Holly Toliver blasted down kills to get her team the first two points of the match, then the two teams went back and forth throughout the first set. Eventually, the Shamrocks built a 24-22 lead, but Emily Kutch blasted a kill to get her team the ball back. A Shamrock time-out was followed by Kutch and Taylor Shook blocking an attack by Toliver. Olivia Davis then closed out the set with two aces for the down. That was our goal,” said Lakewood senior Taylor Shook, who led her team with three blocks. “We did it, and I could not be more proud of the front row. I am so proud of us. “It was about keeping an eye on her, where she goes. She goes left, we go left. She goes right, we go right.” Kutch added two blocks, and the Vikings only had nine as a team, but Rowland said getting a touch on the ball to slow it down for the back row defenders was important all match. Toliver even resorted to tipping over the block more often than usual. That helped setter Brooke Wieland lead the Viking team with eight digs. Beth Tingley had eight. Wieland also had 21 assists and seven kills. Wieland and Tingley were each able to find open corners at times with well-timed tips. Kutch led the Vikings with 14 kills and Davis had nine. Lakewood closed out the second set by winning 15 of the last 19 points, with big service runs by Kutch and Kietzman. “You lose a tough first game, the second game can sometimes be difficult,” said Berrien Springs head coach Jim Bermingham. “We kind of stoned up. Our faces, they had that glazed look, but then again they didn’t do that in the third game so that’s a good thing.” The third set was much like the first, with Berrien Springs moving out to an early lead, then the two teams battling back and forth. The Shamrocks led late again, 23-20, and again Lakewood rallied for the win. The Shamrocks changed up their rotation, to free up a couple other hitters and it actually improved their block, but not enough. Setter Jullian Wold had 24 assists for the Shamrocks. Desiree Scoggin finished with six kills and 11 digs. Taylor Weckel had seven digs. Jennifer Marren finished with five kills, five blocks and six digs. “I’m pumped,” said Shook. “I am ready for a good practice tomorrow so we can sweep them again on Thursday.” The Vikings take on Dearborn Divine Child in the second Class B Semifinal at Kellogg Arena in Battle Creek this evening at 7:30 p.m. Whitehall faces North Branch at 5:30 in the first Class B Semifinal. Lakewood setter Brooke Wieland leaps up to tip the ball over the block of Berrien Springs’ Alexis Sorce during the third set of Tuesday’s Class B Quarterfinal. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Lakewood’s Taylor Shook (left) and Emily Kutch (right) team up to block an attack by Berrien Springs’ Holly Toliver during the first set of their Class B Quarterfinal at Allegan High School Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Vikings. The ability of the Vikings to block, or at least slow down Toliver’s attacks was key. “We took her away at the end,” Rowland said. “She was forcing hits. That’s why she hit the net. She started hitting into our blocks. We tried to make her do something she’s not comfortable at. She had to come middle sometimes. With the left hand, she has to cut the ball to make a good clean shot. She’s tough, I’m not going to take anything away from her, but we stepped up and stopped her.” Toliver did still have a game-high 20 kills, along with nine digs and seven blocks. “All of us went in knowing they were going to set her up, so we went in to shut her The Vikings’ Jordan Kietzman stretches forward to receive a Shamrock serve during the third set of Tuesday’s Class B Quarterfinal at Allegan High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Lakewood’s girls get past their 2012 nemesis Lakewood senior Olivia Davis gets set to hit the final serve of Thursday’s Class B Regional Final, which her team won in five sets against Forest Hills Eastern at Thornapple Kellogg High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) 77572337 by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The ball hung in the air above the center of the court. The setter? The libero? The setter? Which one? No one. Pandemonium. As the ball hit the floor so did the Lakewood students. The Lakewood girls were swarmed by a mass of smiles, hugs and tears - some of them their own. “I just knew we had to be ready for it when they got it up, but when they didn’t it was tears of joy,” said Lakewood senior setter Brooke Wieland. “We expected it, but we just had to push. Our backs were up against the wall again and we just kept going.” After going 0-2 against Forest Hills Eastern at tournaments during the course of the regular season, the No. 1 ranked Lakewood varsity volleyball team got the win when it had to have it, in the Class B Regional Final at Thornapple Kellogg High School in Middleville Thursday. The previous two best of three matches went three sets, with the No. 3 ranked Hawks coming out on top. It was best of five in the regional final, with the Vikings winning in five 25-27, 27-12, 23-25, 25-21, 15-7. Lakewood made its first appearance in the state quarterfinals since 2008 when it traveled to Allegan and beat Berrien Springs Tuesday. The seven Lakewood seniors were in eighth grade in the fall of 2008. Since that quarterfinal match Emily Kutch, Olivia Davis and Wieland have been starters for the Vikings. Beth Tingley joined the varsity midway through their freshman year in the fall of 2009. “Kellie has coached us seven seniors since seventh grade. She hasn’t stopped,” Wieland said. “She keeps coming in for us. We commit ourselves, summer, winter and fall. We put in the hours. It makes everyone completely different come the start of the season, and it helps us tremendously in the postseason.” That foursome, along with fellow seniors Taylor Shook, Jordan Kietzman and Sunshine Young led the Vikings Thursday. “It’s exciting,” said Tingley, the Viking libero who played her best match of the postseason so far Thursday. “It’s probably the most, best experience I’ve ever had in my whole life. I never thought seven years of working this hard would pay off, but it did. “We worked so hard to get here. If it wasn’t for (coaches) Kellie, and Cameron (Rowland) and Claire (Rowland) and Jeff (Duits) we wouldn’t be where we are today. Lakewood’s Madison Neustifter gets a hug from coach Kellie Rowland after getting her regional champion medal Thursday in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Not even close.” Tingley finished the night with a team-high 17 digs. Kietzman and Wieland added ten each. Wieland, the setter, had 40 assists to go along with five kills and a team-high three aces. She also teamed up with Shook for a couple of huge blocks late in the fourth set. Shook finished with eight blocks total on the night and Wieland four. The Vikings aren’t the tallest team in the state, but they took advantage of their edge at the net against the Hawks. Davis and sophomore Vanessa Reynhout had two blocks each as well. While Forest Hills Eastern setter Holly Myer hit quick balls across the net for her teammates throughout the match, Wieland threw her sets up high to let her attackers get up over the Hawk block. “Emily (Kutch) was on fire. Oh, my gosh,” coach Rowland said. “She hit over .400. Emily Kutch had 24 kills with over a .400 kill efficiency.” Davis had 16 kills. “We knew the outside was ours,” coach Rowland said. “They are little on that right side. We knew Em and Olivia could swing. Olivia was a little cold to start, but she still had a way to score. They can’t forget about Taylor, Vanessa and Charlie (Smith). If we have to have them, they come in and it’s pretty open for them to swing away because they concentrate on the two outsides. We knew that.” The Vikings led for nearly every serve of the match. The only times that Forest Hills Eastern had a two-point advantage were at 31 in the first set, 27-25 at the end of the first set, and 25-23 at the end of the third. “I’m just so happy with our fifth-game play, because until this tournament I didn’t know what we would play like in a fifth game,” said Lakewood head coach Kellie Rowland. “But boy, they know how important it is to get in, and not make errors, and pound at them and make them try to come at us.” In the final seven points of the fifth set, the only one the Hawks won was on a serve by the Vikings’ that flew long following a Hawk time-out. It was the Hawks who put together late strings of points in games early. Lakewood led the opening set 20-11, before FHE rallied for the 27-25 win. In the second set, the Vikings also built up a 20-11 lead, but this time closed out the win quickly. The Vikings held a one- to four-point lead through most of the third set, before the Hawks pulled in front in the final few points. Lakewood held as similar lead throughout the fourth set. The big blocks by Wieland and Shook, and a couple of huge kills by Kutch though allowed the Vikings to force the fifth set. “We just kept executing,” Wieland said. “We never let them score more than two points in a row. We knew they were going to get a point here and there, but we had to keep coming back stronger.” Alli Gutschow led the Hawks with 16 kills. Myer had 49 assists. Jaclyn Goble had a teamhigh 25 digs. GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 269- 945-9554 for more information. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-11-22.pdf b1568a269b9cd93ff0af0cee782361ce PDF Text Text Shelter director candidate recommended Give thanks for what we have All-Barry County fall teams announced See Story on Page 2 See Editorial on Page 4 See Stories on Pages 14-15 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 46 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, November 22, 2012 State Champions ... finally ... State Champions! by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Amanda Blough was there. Heather Mitchell was there. There were Buches and Lynchs. Chelsea Lake, Ashley Morris, Laurel Mattson and countless other women from Lakewood’s volleyball past were there. It’s a safe bet Spetoskeys were gathered around a screen showing the MHSAA TV channel somewhere near La Crosse, Wisconsin. Cameron Rowland shouted from the front row, across the court from the benches inside Kellogg Arena in Battle Creek Saturday. Head coach Kellie Rowland paced back and forth in front of the Lakewood bench. Coach Clair Rowland sat on one end of that bench, along with fellow coach Jeff Duits. Duits’ wife Selena was in the stands. Try and convince any of them that there wasn’t another Duits, Emily, looking down from somewhere high above. All the years, all the work, all the tears, and finally at the end of a Lakewood varsity volleyball season they were tears of joy. Senior setter Brooke Wieland’s set went up and senior outside hitter Emily Kutch’s attack came crashing down for the last of 75 points. Lakewood’s varsity volleyball team earned its The Lakewood girls share hugs and tears of joy as they celebrate their 2012 Class B State Championship at Kellogg Arena in Battle Creek Saturday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) first ever state championship, winning the MHSAA Class B State Championship in three sets, 25-20, 25-18, 25-17 over North Branch. It was the culmination of six years of volleyball or more for the seven Lakewood seniors, four-year varsity players Kutch, Wieland, Olivia Davis and Beth Tingley, and two-year varsity seniors Taylor Shook, Sunshine Young and Jordan Kietzman. Sophomore Vanessa Reynhout and freshmen Charlie Smith and Karly Morris were big contributors. Sophomore Gracie Shellenbarger and juniors Taylor VantLand and Madison Neustifter did all they could to encourage, inspire and push their teammates. Now they’re all state champions. “It was amazing,” Wieland said. “We’ve worked so many years for this. Once again, we’ve been told every year since we’ve been in high school that we’re going to go all the way and we finally executed and made it happen this year.” The Vikings made it happen from the getgo Saturday. The first set was close, with North Branch leading 19-17, but the Vikings rattled off eight of the next nine points to earn the 25-20 win. “We had the size. We had the speed and we See CHAMPIONS, pg. 16 Emotions, consensus lead Hastings council to appoint Mayor Frank Campbell by Doug VanderLaan Editor Facing gridlock after failing on three consecutive votes to select one of three candidates as the city’s next mayor, Hastings City Council members took a deep breath Monday night and re-voted 6-2 to appoint former mayor Frank Campbell to the position. Monday’s special meeting was called to fill the position vacated following the Oct. 16 death of Mayor Bob May. The city’s charter mandates an appointment by the council within 45 days of the office becoming vacant to avoid a special election. Campbell was appointed to serve until the next council election in November 2013 at which time voters will decide who will fill the remaining two years of the four-year term to which May was elected in 2011. Campbell declared Monday his intention to be a candidate in the upcoming election. “I was asked to do this, and I’ve made myself available,” Campbell told council members, in reference to a letter from May’s widow, Deb, that was read into the record of Monday’s meeting. “This appointment, for a year, is in your hands. Then, for the final two years of the term, it will be in the public’s hands. I’m just honored to be asked to do it.” Deb May’s letter, expressing her husband’s dying wish that Campbell fill the remainder of his term, added to the emotion of a direct and tense meeting. That, and the fact that sitting council members Don City council veteran and former mayor Frank Campbell poses with Deb May, following his appointment Monday to begin filling the remainder of the late Mayor Bob May’s term. Bowers and Barry Wood had also declared themselves candidates for the appointment added to the tension. “I loved and respected Bob, he wanted the best for the community,” said Council member Jeri DePue, who played a key role in the eventual vote, “but I have a problem making my decision based on his dying wishes. I think it’s unethical. “Bob chose Frank, but that’s not why I’ll choose Frank, if I do. That should not be the basis for our vote.” When Campbell’s name was placed into formal nomination by Council member Bill Redman with support from Dave Tossava, it failed the required six votes from the sitting eight council members. Redman, Al Jarvis, Dave Jasperse, Tossava, and Mayor Pro-tem Brenda McNabb-Stange voted in favor. Bowers, Wood and DePue cast the no votes. Bowers then placed Wood’s name into nomination, to which Wood added the supporting motion. It also failed on a 3-5 vote with DePue, Jarvis, Jasperse, Redman and Tossava dissenting. With the last of three candidates remaining, Tossava provided the motion for Bowers, with support from Jasperse. It failed on a 4-4 count with Jasperse, Tossava, Bowers, and McNabb-Stange voting on the affirmative side. Addressing the impasse, City Attorney Stephanie Fekkes explained that, after not reaching a decision, the council would face calling a special election, the cost of which would approach $4,000 according to an earlier estimate from City Manager Jeff Mansfield. To reconsider any of the earlier votes would require a motion from a member of a vote’s prevailing, or winning, side to make such a motion. DePue, who had voted with Bowers and Wood to defeat Campbell’s first motion for appointment, then stepped up. “I nominate Frank Campbell,” declared DePue, to which Redman added a quick second. On the re-take vote, Campbell was given the mayoral appointment on a 6-2 count, with Wood and Bowers dissenting. “A house divided cannot stand,” sighed DePue in remarks made following the meeting. “I don’t like any of the three, but I don’t think fighting is a good precedent. That’s all we see in Lansing and Washington, D.C. I think we have to get behind whoever leads us.” Campbell, who served for over 26 years See MAYOR, page 3 Hastings teachers display picket signs during the board of education meeting Monday evening. Contract negotiations go visual at Hastings board meeting by Doug VanderLaan Editor A tunnel of picket signs awaited school board members as they arrived Monday at Star Elementary School for the monthly meeting of the Hastings Area School System. If there were too many signs to read on the way in to the building, board members had the entire meeting to review them as teachers took their message boards protesting the lack of progress in contract negotiations to the back of the gymnasium meeting room where they stood facing the board table for the entire meeting. “Our basic message was, ‘We said we’d give you 6 percent [reduction in salaries]. Why wasn’t that good enough?’” stated teacher association representative Wendi McCausey following the meeting. See NEGOTIATIONS, page 3 Hastings teachers display picket signs during the board of education meeting Monday evening. �Page 2 — Thursday, November 22, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Pilgrims gather for traditional St. Rose Feast Honoring a Thanksgiving Day heritage that began more than 20 years ago at St. Rose School in Hastings, students gathered in the parish hall Friday for the annual Thanksgiving Feast prepared and served by volunteer mothers. Students observed the Thanksgiving Day tradition with a number of classroom preparation activities, including the construction of Pilgrim hats and bonnets and special holiday placemats decorated with prayers of thanks for gifts provided. “We invite the staff of the rectory and of the school along with the students,” said St. Rose Principal Kyle Welter. “Our students learn that it truly is a dinner of thanksgiving.” Lizzie Beemer (left) and Sydney Woolf, in their pilgrim bonnets, pause to mark the special Thanksgiving Feast at St. Rose School in Hastings. Among the mothers on hand to serve the Thanksgiving Feast and decorate tables are (from left) Tami Saur, Deb Huver, Leah Woolf, Tammy James, Missie Caris and Julie Zull. Pilgrims (front, from left) Jamison Lesick, Collin Hawthorne, Aidan Makled, (back) Evan Murphy and Noah Short give thanks for their friendship prior to the Thanksgiving Feast. What would a Thanksgiving Feast be without cupcakes? While a decorative turkey stands guard, cupcakes await St. Rose students and staff members. Drew Gleeson leads fourth graders through the serving line at the St. Rose School Thanksgiving Feast. Serving are (from left) Julie Zull, Tami Saur and Tammy James. Middleville council approves smoke-free parks by Julie Makarewicz Staff Writer Parks and recreation areas within the village of Middleville will be tobacco-free zones following the Village Council’s 6-1 vote Nov. 13, approving a tobacco-free parks policy. Signs will be posted in the parks and along the Paul Henry Trail to notify users of the restrictions. The village will seek grant funds from the Barry-Eaton District Health Department to help pay for up to $200 of the sign costs. The village will need at least seven signs at a cost of $42 each. The policy will also apply to Calvin Hill, Spring, Stagecoach and Wildwood Parks in the village as well as the Paul Henry Thornapple Trail. The emphasis of the policy is on voluntary compliance. Council member Shannon Endsley was the only dissenting vote. “I can’t see why the village should spend $294 for a policy we can’t enforce,” contended Endsley. “People are adult enough to not smoke if it’s bothering someone else. I don’t think we need a policy for it.” Council member Sue Reyff said it’s more about protecting the parks and making sure everyone who visits can have a safe and enjoyable time. “Many people come to the parks and have allergies to smoke,” pointed out Reyff. “It’s nice to have these areas smoke-free.” It’s also a matter of safety, according to Council member Mike Lytle. “Especially in an area like Wildwood where it’s so wooded and the trail isn’t paved,” said Lytle. “A cigarette butt could burn down the whole place.” In other business: • Council approved its right to adopt the village master plan as revised and recommended by the planning commission. The master plan will be distributed to neighboring municipalities for review. After the 42-day review period, the planning commission will host a public hearing and then send its recommendation to the village council for final approval. The review of the master plan includes several minor changes from the plan adopted five years ago. The village is required to review the plan at least every five years. • An underground storage tank found on village-owned property at the corner of Larkin and Main streets, will be removed. The village approved a contract with Valley City Environmental Services of Grand Rapids for $2,880. The tank is believed to contain heating fuel oil and does not appear to be leaking. If the tank is leaking, the village will also have to have soil tested to determine the levels of contamination. Those tests will be done by Horizon Environmental at no cost. Horizon performed the baseline environmental assessment on the property and did not discover the tank, but said that it was not included in their scope of work at the time. If the tank is found to be leaking, tests will determine what additional steps the village must take the clear the site. • The 2013 meeting schedules for the village council, committee of the whole, planning commission, downtown development authority, local development finance authority, zoning board of appeals and wellhead protection group were approved. The village council will continue to regularly meet at 7 p.m. the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month; the committee of the whole will meet at 4:30 p.m. the first Tuesday of each month; the planning commission meets regularly at 7 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month; the DDA meets at 7 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month; the LDFA meets at 5 p.m. quar- terly on the third Thursday in January, April, July and October; the zoning board of appeals meets as needed; and the wellhead protection group will meet at 4 p.m. quarterly on the fourth Thursday in January, April, July and October. • A special events permit was approved for the 2013 National 24-Hour Challenge to be held June 15 and 16 with an anticipated 325 to 350 participants and more than 500 spectators. • A special event permit was approved for the Middleville Downtown Development Authority and the Middleville United Methodist Church for the Holly Trolley event from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Dec. 20. The trolley will give rides to people to view the holiday decorations and lights throughout the village. There will be caroling and music, and chestnut roasting, and other activities. • A special event permit was approved for the Lions Club’s annual Christmas parade. The parade takes place Dec. 1 with parade lineup at McFall Elementary School at 9:30 a.m. • Duane Weeks, department of public works director, told council members the west lift station work is completed and within budget. He also reported the sign for the intersection of Main Street and M-37 should be installed within a week hopefully. He said electrical service has been installed for the site. • Reyff commented that, in the future, she believes all village owned property for sale should be publicly noticed so anyone interested has opportunity to make bids. Her remarks come after the village approved sale of the property at 100 Arlington St. to Jeff Bohms for his State Farm Insurance business. Some council members questioned if the site was advertised for sale so the public had equal opportunities to bid on it. Recently re-elected Thornapple Township trustee dies at home by Julie Makarewicz Staff Writer Thornapple Township Trustee Patrick Harrison died Saturday, Nov. 17, at his home. He was re-elected to a four-year term as a trustee earlier this month and said he was looking forward to serving his community. Township Supervisor Don Boysen said Harrison’s death is a big loss. “He will obviously be missed a great deal,” said Boysen. “We really treasured his friendship and input on the township board. It was a big shock and a big loss.” Harrison had served on the township board for 10 years. He was a 1960 Thornapple Kellogg High School graduate and lived in the township most of his adult life. He was a member of the Parmalee Methodist Church and a member of the Thornapple Township Planning Commission. He retired from Steelcase in 1999, after working there 34 years. He also owned a small hobby farm. Among his survivors are his wife, Judy (Wiesenhofer), daughter Nickole and son Corey (Sonja) and five grandchildren. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Friday, Nov. 23, at Middleville United Methodist Church. Burial will be in Mt. Hope Cemetery. Visitation will be from 1 to 3 and 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 23, at Beeler Gores Funeral Home in Middleville. The family suggests people dress casually and honor Harrison by wearing anything John Deere. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting memorial gifts to Thornapple Township Emergency Services or Parmalee United Patrick Harrison Methodist Church. The township board will have to appoint someone to Harrison’s term of office. The board will likely consider appointments at its Dec. 10 meeting, which will begin at 7 p.m. in the township hall. The person appointed will serve for two years, then the position will be up for election for the remaining two years. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 22, 2012 — Page 3 County board recommends candidate to be animal shelter director by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer The Barry County Animal Shelter dominated discussion and action during the 3 1/2hour Barry County Board of Commissioners committee of the whole meeting Tuesday. NEWS BRIEFS Blood drives offer another option in giving During the holiday season, residents can give the gift of life by giving blood. Upcoming blood drives in the area include: Middleville — Wednesday, Dec. 5, at the UAW 1002 hall, 295 Washington St., from noon to 5:45 p.m. Vermontville — Wednesday, Dec. 12, at Maple Valley High School, 11090 Nashville Highway, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. Anyone who is 17 or older, weighs at least 110 pounds, is in reasonably good health and has not donated for 56 days is eligible to give blood. Visit redcrossblood.org or call 800RED CROSS to make an appointment. Humane Society straw giveaway is Dec. 1 The Barry County Humane Society will again provide free straw for doghouses and cat beds Saturday, Dec. 1, from 9 a.m. to noon. The straw will be available on a first-come, first-served basis at the Barry County Animal Shelter, located at 540 N. Industrial Park Drive in Hastings. The amount of straw available is limited this year, so those in need of straw should plan to arrive early. “If you or someone you know does not have a dog house for your outside dog and cannot afford one, the Humane Society may be able to help provide one,” said Mary Fisher, of the Humane Society. Questions should be directed to the Humane Society, 269-945-0602. In addition to approving a motion to recommend the Michigan State Police take over the Barry County Sheriff’s Department investigation of Animal Shelter Advisory Board member Marcia Tepper, who was appointed to the post by Sheriff Dar Leaf, the board also interviewed three candidates for the animal shelter director position and made its recommendation. The board also approved three other recommendations related to the animal shelter. When the county board conducts its regular meeting next Tuesday, it is expected to approve the nomination of Diana Newman of Battle Creek as the animal shelter’s director. The recommendation to appoint Newman was approved by a 6-1 vote, with Commissioner Ben Gieger casting his vote for Douglas Hoort of Lake Odessa, who, along with Janelle McFarlane, were among the three final candidates for the post. Barry County Administrator Michael Brown screened the applications and conducted the initial interviews before narrowing the field to three candidates. During its next regular meeting, the board is expected to approve the following: • A motion to change animal shelter policy to waive adoption fees for approved rescue organizations. • A memorandum of understanding between the Association for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and Barry County. • A motion supporting climate adaptation planning by Michigan State University Extension and Great Lakes Integrated Science Assessment Center. • The expenditure of $24,630 from the data processing fund to purchase network switches from NuWave technologies, and installation services provided by Syekon Inc. • A budget amendment to increase revenues and expenditures of $5,915. The amendment reflects an insurance claim reimbursement and expenditures for cleaning expenses after a sewer backup at the Barry County Jail Aug. 8, in the amount of $4,200, and a reimbursement of law enforcement personnel and corresponding expenditure in the amount of $1,715 to purchase tactical uniforms. NEGOTIATIONS, continued from page 1 A sizable crowd, including teachers dressed in education association shirts, attended Monday’s school board meeting held at Star Elementary School. McCausey’s remark was in reference to an original proposal by the teacher’s association to reduce salaries by 6 percent for one year to help the district address its current budget deficit. Differences over making the cut permanent in coming years kept the two sides from an agreement this past summer. “Now they’ve taken our original proposal and made it a 10 percent cut,” said McCausey Monday night, adding that it also was proposed to the association as an “off schedule” reduction, or a permanent reduction moving forward. Though teachers are working on the second year of a two-year contract, the agreement allows for a re-opener on wages only. The dis- trict has appealed to the union for relief on salary obligations due to the dire financial straits of its budget. “Our latest audit came in Friday and, at this point, we have a $622,607 deficit,” pointed out Hastings Superintendent Todd Geerlings in remarks made following Monday’s meeting and a Tuesday morning phone call. “We realize the difficulty that this has placed on our staff, but, at the same time, we also have that deficit staring us in the face.” Geerlings also called attention to the accuracy of financial projections, stating that the identified deficit figure in Friday’s audit report is only $1 different than the earlier estimate made by Tim Berlin, the district’s direc- tor of business services. The two sides have been working with a state mediator and are scheduled for another mediation session Dec. 18. Non-binding factfinding will continue with a state judge on Jan. 9. The fact-finding process will be followed by a 60-day “cooling off” period if an agreement cannot be reached after which the school district will be allowed to impose its final offer. “We’re working to get this district back to sound financial footing,” concluded Geerlings. “We want to work with our teachers.” MAYOR, continued from page 1 on the council, eight as mayor, was to be sworn in Tuesday. Redman, who earlier said that “this is probably one of the hardest and most important decisions that this council will make,” concluded Monday’s meeting by asking for a round of applause from the council and the audience of some 25 city officials and residents for the three candidates. “I want to congratulate Frank and Barry and Don for having the wherewithal to provide their ability and their time for this. I thank all of you,” said Redman. Several teachers spend the length of Monday’s school board meeting displaying picket signs at the back of the room. This Christmas Shop Downtown Holiday Happenings FRIDAY NOVEMBER 30 TH Manger Lighting 6:00pm Courthouse Lawn Christmas Tree Lighting 8:30pm City Hall & Library Holiday Hop 5-8pm Live Music Downtown Art at the Library 5-8pm Holly Trolley Rides sponsored by Hastings City Bank Christmas Village 5-8pm with Santa, Elves, Hot Chocolate & Free Gift Wrapping next to Richies Carriage Rides 5-8pm sponsored by Bosley Pharmacy & The County Seat SATURDAY DECEMBER 1ST Downtown Hastings Christmas Parade Shop Downtown Hastings ... where the Holidays begin! �Page 4 — Thursday, November 22, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Forum will discuss recycling options for Barry County The Barry County Solid Waste Oversight Committee invites county residents and community leaders to attend a recycling forum Thursday, Nov. 29, at 7 p.m. at the Commission on Aging, 320 W. Woodlawn Ave. in Hastings. In August, the SWOC contracted staff from Michigan Alternative and Renewable Energy Center at Grand Valley State University to compile a comprehensive report outlining existing recycling programs used by county residents, the programs’ effectiveness and gaps, or areas in the county having limited or no recycling options. The forum will provide information from this report and identify elements of and funding sources for recycling programs in other Michigan counties of similar size and nature, said Kim Walton, MAREC program director. She also will seek public input on how to support sustainable and affordable recycling services throughout the county. “There is no disagreement that recycling is an important issue in Barry County — most people and local officials would like to see more recycling,” said Walton. “The catch is how to pay for it.” Two pieces of state legislation allow for billing homeowners for recycling on property taxes, but other funding models also are used in Michigan, she said. However, with the con- Did you dition, elected officials are reluctant to enact any type of fee that is not supported by residents of the county, said Walton. The goal of this study will be to identify the preferred recycling model and funding options to pay for it. “In addition to knowing what is happening in Barry County, it is essential to understand what recycling programs are operating around the state and how they are paid for,” she added. “By looking at the different components of several recycling programs and understanding how the parts of the different programs either save or cost money is the key to developing a worthwhile recycling program in Barry County. There is very little opposition to recycling, but consensus on just how to fund a recycling program will be more difficult to obtain.” Walton said several recycling efforts are underway in Barry County, such as the hazardous waste collection events, tire collections, river cleanups, and recycling as fundraisers. Many local waste haulers also offer recycling services to their customers even without a mandate to do so and each of these efforts work toward keeping Barry County a cleaner and healthier place to live and work, she added. The following numbers are still being gathered, but are conservative and based on data collected locally: • Forty-five percent of Barry County residents do not have either the option of curbside recycling service or a local (within the township) drop-off site that accepts recycling. • About 16 percent of recycling here is done through curbside pick-up services. Participating residents pay an average of $42 annually to recycle, and each participating household recycles an average of 400 to 500 pounds annually. • Almost 85 percent of the recycling done by residents is taken to one of the drop-off sites around the county. Annually, the amount of material diverted from the waste stream in Barry County is through Curbside pickup — 159 tons; dropoff sites — 812.5 tons; and commercial recycling — 319.6 tons, for a total of 1,291.1 tons of waste being recycled in Barry County each year. But, said Walton, more can and should be done. She encouraged residents to take a brief survey on the county website. A paper copy of the survey can be picked up at the BarryEaton District Health Department on Woodlawn Avenue or at the Waste Management office located at the landfill. She also invites the public to the Nov. 29 meeting. see? Turkeys of a different feather When Ethan Caris, 9, saw these turkey vultures gathering en masse on the City of Hastings’ water tower across from his home last week, the St. Rose fourth grader grabbed his iPad and recorded this unusual site. Neighbors say they’ve never seen such an occurrence and speculate that the scavengers may be sunning off the recent plentiful meals from EHD-infected deer carrion. We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom, Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j- Do you adgraphics.com. Please include information, such as where and when the photo was taken, who took the photo, and other relevant or anecdotal information. know? Amazing grain Do you recognize these men? Do you know where they are or why the photo was taken? The grain pouring from the truck looks like rice. Do you know if it is? What can you tell us about this photo? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other informa- tion. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event to reunite the photos with their original clippings or identify photos that may never have been used. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@j-adgraphics.com; or call 269945-9554. Last week’s photo of four ladies gathered with items possibly for a bazaar drew just one response that the woman in the light colored dress might be Sally Robinson. Can you tell us more? Call any time to place your Hastings Banner classified ad 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 Give thanks for what we already have Today we celebrate what has been considered the beginning of the holiday shopping season. Yet in recent years, we didn’t even get a chance to put away our Halloween decorations before Christmas started showing up in big box stores. In the past, Thanksgiving was a day for families and friends to gather for the traditional meal, play some games, watch some games and just chill out. Recently, however, national retailers have jumped the gun by opening Thanksgiving Day, adding another big sales day to the famous Black Friday to increase their market shares. Big box retailers are coming under fire by employees who prefer to spend the holiday with their families. Employees and their families have been voicing opposition over earlier store opening times and being open Thanksgiving Day, making it difficult for them to enjoy the holiday. In light of these complaints, lawmakers in three states — Maine, Massachusetts and Rhode Island — decided to prohibit major retailers from opening on Thanksgiving Day. So despite national advertising, stores like Target and Walmart will not be allowed to open until after midnight in those states. According to the report, Target has been defending its holiday hours since the pushback started, stating that most of the employees who work on Thanksgiving actually volunteer for the shift to earn holiday pay. And even though some states have laws on the books preventing Thanksgiving openings, at least one is trying to reverse the law. Gov. Deval Patrick and the Massachusetts Retailers Association said they are looking into legislation that could reverse the ban. If the laws are changed, “it would have to be voluntary to work, and there would be premium pay, just like we have on other holidays,” said Patrick. Even with the complaints and the obvious disdain for the Black Friday creep, many stores will continue to open Thursday, nonetheless. But that doesn’t mean you can’t tell retailers how you feel about it. Maybe, when some sanity is restored, retail employees will be able to once again enjoy Thanksgiving with their families. For me, Thanksgiving has been a time to relax, watch some parades, football and to enjoy the annual family feast. In today’s fast-paced world, everyone who can should take the opportunity to enjoy the holiday. It seems just a few years ago, if I ventured downtown, the streets seemed almost eerie because every store except a couple of gas stations were closed. The places where you noticed any cars were the hospital and emergency, services along with a few churches, such as the Methodist Church which hosts the annual Thanksgiving community dinner. The Pilgrims celebrated the first Thanksgiving in 1621. The first celebration lasted three days and was attended by 53 Pilgrims and 90 Native Americans. The New England colonists were accustomed to regularly celebrating “thanksgivings,” where they set aside time for prayer by thanking God for the blessings they shared. Looking over the landscape today, some might ask, “What do we have to be thankful for?” Our nation is reporting more than 23 million people still out of work, while three states suffered huge losses during Hurricane Sandy, and our nation is on the What do you verge falling off the financial cliff. This is not what the In contrast, the Pilgrims faced death and all kinds of hardships that we cannot imagine, yet still gave thanks for what they had. Frederick Keonig wrote, “We tend to forget that happiness doesn’t come as a result of getting something we don’t have, but rather of recognizing and appreciating what we do have.” Thanksgiving teaches us to appreciate what we have and to work hard if we expect change our lives and inspire others to do the same. But most of all, we shouldn’t let the annual holiday lose its true meaning. It’s not the beginning of the most important retail season of the year. It’s the beginning of the holiday season and a time when each of us should look back at what has been and to think about what could be in the coming year. And, instead of loading up the family and heading to the bigger cities for shopping, think about the commitment local retailers make to our community and the importance your support will make in their future. Experts say that whenever you purchase goods and services locally, you make an investment in your community. According to a national report released by the 350 Project, a Minneapolis advocacy group, if half of the employed population in the country spent just $50 each month at their local independently owned stores, their purchases would generate more than $42 billion in new revenue. And, for every $100 spent at an independently owned store, $68 gets returned to the local community through taxes, payroll and other expenditures. The report went to say that when spending the same amount at a national chain, only $43 is retained in the local community. And if that same $100 is spent online, zero dollars are returned to the local community. If we expect our communities to grow and prosper in the future, then we must support them, or they will eventually go by the wayside. When I was growing up, my parents did most of their shopping locally. The only reason we drove to the major cities was to enjoy the Christmas lights and pick up those really hard-to-find items not usually available locally. Today, I realize that’s not possible — we’ve lost many of our local stores, so that most families find it impossible to purchase everything they want on their shopping list. To keep things in perspective, consider all the people around you and the benefits of living in a small community where so many are willing to help those in need. Think of those who’ve lost their jobs or might be experiencing health issues, a loss of a friend or family member. Maintaining a good attitude will help you find the things to be thankful for. So as we sit down with family and friends on Thanksgiving, let’s all give thanks for what we have and remember all those who have so much less. Time is rushing by, and before you know it, Christmas will be here and gone for another year. As the season passes, so will our economic woes — we just don’t know if it will be measured in months or years. Be positive and pray that the worst is over and that we will see better times in the coming year. Fred Jacobs, vice president, J-Ad Graphics think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the questions posed each week by accessing our website www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. Last week’s question: Despite assurances that EHD, a disease affecting deer, cannot be transmitted to humans, some Michigan hunters have opted to take part in the firearms deer season, which begins today. Will EHD change your hunting plans? 43% 57% Yes No For this week: Santa Claus, himself, has already been showing up in some cities, just in time to promote this week’s popular “Black Friday” Christmas sales. Is it too early to be welcoming Santa Claus and the Christmas season? q q Yes No �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 22, 2012 — Page 5 IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV Teachers shouldn’t be only ones taking pay cuts To the editor: No where in the article on the front page of the Oct. 18 Banner did I see where the principals, superintendent, athletic director, or financial director, that any of them are offering to take a permanent salary decrease. I don’t care if they have special degrees; they are no better. The teachers are the ones who teach and care for our students. They are Hastings education. Do the administrators take money out of their pockets to help classrooms? I think not. It was not the teachers who paid a retired teacher $75,000 for a book, the boards poor decision makers and more. The board members should have term limits. They should not be able to be on the board more than one term. We need new blood to keep up with new changes. Deb James, Hastings Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. The Hastings Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Middle School has released its honor roll for the first marking period of the 2012-13 school year, which ended Oct. 31. An asterisk (*) indicates a 4.0 grade point average. Sixth grade High honors Nicholas Abbott, *Rian Allen, Blair Anderson, *Claire Anderson, Alfredo-jose Arechiga, Gracie Arnold, Logan Ashcraft, Grace Beauchamp, *Sierra Bentti, Shelby Bolen, Prescot Bower, Abigail Bremer, Haliegh Burfield, *Victoria Byykkonen, Daisy Campbell, *Whitney Carlson, Thomas Carpenter, Alexander Clow, *Allison Collins, Brady Corrion, Amanda Cranmore, Shannon Culp, Cora Cunningham, Elizabeth Danis, Bryce Darling, Devon Dilno, Cody Dunn, Julia Ehredt, Kaitlynn Elliott, Cameron Ertner, Isaac Evans, *Noah Former, *Amber Fox, Garrett Gibson, Natasha Glasgow, Sean Green, Mikayla Guernsey, Olivia Hanson, *Lauren Harden, Devin Haywood, Kelsey Heiss, Wesley Heniser, Jaden Hickman, Allie Horning *Jack Horton, *William Hubbell, Corbin Hunter, Keely Jackson, Matthew Jacob, *Gretchen James, Elizabeth Jensen, Aaron Johns, Jesse Johnson, Ellena Keener, Deagan Leask, Breana Leonard, Brea Madden, Sadie Maitland, *Andrew Maurer, Alexis McCracken, *Alexis McDade, *Claudia McLean, *Justin McManamey, *Lindsay Meeker, *Katura Metzner, Kaleb Micklatcher, James Miller, *Shiann Molette, *Jeffrey Morgan, *Kassidy Morgan, Luke Morgan, Mary K Murphy, *Jonathan Nash, Gabrielle Nicholson, *Grace Nickels, *Kassidi Olson, Ethan Orcasitas, Hailey Pacillo, Clarissa Parish, Jaden Parker, *Connor Parmenter, Sydney Pattok, *Emmalee Peck, *Hope Peck, Conner Peterson, Miya Phillips, *Hannah Porter, Antonio Ramirez, Seth Ray, Haydn Redmond, Parker Reid, *Maxwell Richards, Alicia Rivera, *Roger Roets, Zarek Rudesill, Alexis Ruthruff, Andrew Shaver, Matthew Sherman, Kaitlyn Shook, Mitike Slagstad, Elise Smith, * Katelyn Solmes, *Benjamin Stafford, *Isaiah Taylor, *Grayson Tebo, Lynnsey Thayer, Jessica Thompson, Joseph Tinkler, Lainey Tomko, Christian Turashoff, Mikaela Twigg, Spencer Tyson, Emmalee VanSyckle, Allison Vastine, *Samuel Waller, Blake Walther, *Kassaundra Warner, Paige Woern, Trinity Yoder, Ellie Youngs, Carmen Zalewski. Honors Rylee Andrews, Madison Bell, Meghan Borton, Jared Burger, Samantha Craven, Megan Deal, Olivia Feldt, Katherine Friend, Austin Galaviz, Jessica Gaskill, Cameron Haight, Tobin Haines Jr., Breann Hall, Zachary Hall, Devyn Heath, Alicia Hernandez, Saebien Krebs, Braeden Lowell, Saralyn Main, Grace Mauerman, Chase Mesecar, Maci Michaels, Philip Morris, Cody Murphy, Brianna Planck, Melanie Post, Jett Russell, Austin Service, Jalen Simmons, Kenneth Smith, Maggie Spencer, Bailey Summers, Hayden Thompson, Juan Vargas, William Vereecken, Alfredo Visser. Seventh grade High honors Morgan Bartimus, Emma Beemer, Megan Birman, Ilie Bivins, *Callie Borden, Baili Bowers, Melanie Boysen, *Tyler Brown *Abby Burroughs, Aliyah Campbell, Kayla Carlson, Brian Cheeseman, *Jerry Christensen, Karlee Christiansen, Austin Christie, Samantha Clow, Chase Cobb, Garrett Coltson, Alleyna Davis, Mary Elizabeth DePriester, Terry Dull, Maggie Eastman, Madison Ellsworth, Zoe Engle, Alexis Evans, Morgan Feldt, Kaila Gillespie, Dylan Goodrich, Leah Hawthorne, Cayden Herrington, Matthew Hewitt, *Shayli Hinkle, *Lillian Hyatt, Samuel James, *Tyler Johnson, Margaret Keller-Bennett, James Kirchen II, Kenneth Kirchen, David Lane, Carley Laubaugh, Tessah Leary, Adam Lewis, Nash Martin, Sarah McKeever, Nathan Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Hastings Middle School names honor roll students Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Bonnie Mattson • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, Nov. 22 — Thanksgiving, library closed. Friday, Nov. 23 — Library closed. Saturday, Nov. 24 — Library closed. Monday, Nov. 26 — November reading club, “Get Fired Up for Reading,” continues for pre-kindergarten through 12th grade students; Taste of the Holidays Recipe Exchange continues. Tuesday, Nov. 27 — toddler story time enjoys dots, 10:30 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30; genealogy club meets, 6 to 8 p.m. Call the Hastings Public Library for more information, 269-945-4263. Meyers, *August Miller, Brandon Miner, Caitlyn Morris, Mitchell Morris, *Alizabeth Morrison, *Sydney Nemetz, Aaron Newberry, *Wyatt Owen, Citlali Perez, Emma Porter, *Emma Post, Chyanne Rea, Blake Roderick, Alexia Rodriguez, Jessica Satterfield, Leigha Saur, Cassie Sherk, *Joel Shinavier, Macey Shotts, *Aubree Shumway, Ty Sinclair, Brandon Smith, Samantha Smith, Wyatt Smith, Lindsey Spurlock, *Mason Steward, Chase Taylor, Colin Tellkamp, Mary Terpening, *Bridget Thayer, Pierson Tinkler, *Elliza Tolles, *Carter Tomko, *Ian Trutsch, Elizabeth Watson, James Wezell III, *Cameron White, *Lillian Wierenga, *Jordyn Wigg, *Nicholas Wilgus, *Harleigh Willson, Carson Winick, Julianna Wolf, Bridget Woolf, Madalyne Young, *Kylie Zimmerman. Honors Jesse Alexander, Alex Allerding, Madalyn Anderson, Jackson Barber, Gabriella Bare, Timothy Cary, Emalie Conroy, Alexander Diljak, Haley Fortier, Tanner Gardner, Dayton Graham, Alan Hammond, Bailey Hannan, Austin Hoffman, Lauren Howell, Caitlin Hyland, Gregory Jones, Beken Kaufman, Allera Keller, Dominic Lewis, Jackson Long, Andrew Newberrry, Austin Raymond, Tianna Richardson, Jaden Rosenberg, Margaret Rough, Michael Royal, Breanne Shaw, Briana Smith, Kadie Snore, Sophia Spurlock, Brandon Standley, Anthony Taggart, Logan Twiss, Meggen Tyrrell, Austin Walden, Mackenzie Watson, Austen Wilder, Brittany Wurm. Eighth grade High honors Mara Allan, Cheyann Arens, *Megan Backe, Jenelle Bailey, Abigail Baker, Olivia Barrett, Brianna Beck, Ian Bleam, Destiny Burch, *Zoe Campbell, Calvin Cappon, Emily Casarez, Chloe Case, Kayleigh Collins, Jonathan Cook *Abigail Czinder, Samuel Dakin, Jordan Davis, Jenna Ehredt, *Joseph Feldpausch, Mark Feldpausch, Logan Fish, Reilly Former, *Stevie Fuhr, Aaron Gibson, Mary Green, Rilee Hammond, Daniel Harrington, Claire Harris, Ethan Hart, Elizabeth Heide, Kourtney Hubbert, *Madeline Hutchins, Hannah Joerin-Horning, Nicholas Johnson, Samuel Johnson, Tatiana Jones, Alexis Kelmer, Ethan Klipfer, Katie Kuzava, Jack Longstreet, Noah Lumbert, Brittani Madden, Olivia Mead, Samantha Mitchell, Cassidy Monroe, Megan Morawski, Brenagan Murphy, Journi Neil, Jacklynn Nevins, Christina Osterink, *Emily Pattok, Timbree Pederson, Samantha Pennington, Alexandra Perkins-Craven, Kathryn Pohl, Amanda Pyrzynski, Ramsie Rairigh, Alexis Replogle, *Samantha Richardson, Alan Rivera, Trai Rohm, Trevor Ryan, Zachary Sanders, Charlie Simpson, Madison Smith, *Sandra Smith, Keigan Sochor, Madeline Solmes, *Emily Sprague, David Stephens, Hannah Trick, Kailee Tucker, Emily Turashoff, Michael Vandecar, Reese VanHouten, Sarah Vann, *Katherine Weinbrecht, Sydney Wenman, Drew Westworth, Dylan Williams, Troy Yoder, Ryan Zimmerman. Honors Meghan Anders, Virginia Arechiga, Brianna Arens, Morgan Armour, Michael Banister, Felicia Bates, Kipling Beck, Lauren Bloom, Alexis Bloomberg, Skyler Brower, Kayla Burger, Heidi Cooper, Jason Coykendall, Zackary Cummings, Lacie Cunningham, Jacob Dunn, Elijah Evans, Willliam Green, Tori Harding, Dillon Heath, Jazmine Heath, Hailey Hughes, Daniel Koneska, Nicholas Larabee, Liberty Larsen, Tamra Livingston, Makenna Lowell, Hailey Neal, Julianna Parker, Devin Planck, Tyler Slocum, Ryan Smelker, Kimberly Smith, Grace Trowbridge, Camille VanDien, Justin Voshell, Sarah Watson, Braeden Wescott, Lauren Wolfenbarger. Accident, emergency vehicle response explained In the article I submitted in August, I addressed the law regarding safe passing of emergency vehicles on a roadway. I failed to point out another type of vehicle included in the definition of “authorized emergency vehicles,” according to the Michigan Vehicle Code. This law also applies to road service vehicles, or wreckers, that are clearly marked and readily recognizable as a vehicles used to assist disabled automobiles and giving visual signals by means of a flashing, rotating or oscillating red or amber light. I apologize to all our hard-working tow truck drivers for failing to include this in the prior explanation and thank them for putting themselves in harm’s way to assist police and the motoring public. As a result of that same response, I was asked to explain the law regarding construction, utility and sanitation workers in the road right-of-way. Michigan Compiled Law states that upon approaching and passing a stationary solid waste collection vehicle, a utility service vehicle or a road maintenance vehicle with a flashing, rotating or oscillating amber lights, the driver of an approaching vehicle must slow down and maintain a safe speed for weather, road conditions and vehicular or pedestrian traffic and proceed with due care and caution. You can read the section of law for the complete definition of these vehicles, but they include any road maintenance vehicles under state or local authority or under contract with these departments, waste haulers including curbside trash collection, and service vehicles from electric, gas, sewage, water, telephone and cable providers. If you are in a crash, do the cars have to stay where they are until police arrive? They do not. Unless there are serious injuries or death involved in the crash, the law requires the driver or another licensed occupant to move the vehicle out of the main traveled portion of the roadway and onto the shoulder, emergency lane or median if it can be done in a safe manner. It must be able to move under its own power without further damaging the roadway or other traffic elements. This law pertains to moving a vehicle out of the roadway in order to keep from impeding traffic and causing other hazards. You must then wait on scene for a police officer to arrive. If you drive away from the location, you risk being cited. I know that when a police car is coming from behind you with its lights and siren on, you have to pull over and stop, but if it is coming from the other direction do you have to stop? This law applies to all of the “authorized emergency vehicles,” not just police vehicles. If the emergency vehicle is approaching with at least one flashing, rotating or oscillating red or blue light and an audible siren, whistle or bell, you must pull as close to the right edge or curb of the roadway as possible and come to a stop until the vehicle passes, regardless of the direction of travel. The reason for this is that occasionally that emergency vehicle will need to drive into the opposite or oncoming lane to overtake a vehicle in which a driver is not paying attention and yielding. When you find yourself in this situation, please take the time to look for additional emergency vehicles in the area before you continue driving. Motorists often assume there is only one vehicle overtaking them and pull back into the path of a second responding unit. Many collisions occur this time of year involving deer. Remember that the best practice when a deer crosses the roadway is to stay straight on course and brake to attempt to avoid the crash, but do not swerve. If you hit a deer, call the police to report it. An officer will take the crash report needed for your insurance company and may also need to destroy the deer or remove it from the roadway to avoid further hazardous driving situations. To legally possess the deer, the officer will need to issue you a permit indicating that it was “highway killed.” Anyone with a law enforcement question they would like answered here, should email waylandpost@gmail.com or call 269-7922213 ext. 364. �Page 6 — Thursday, November 22, 2012 — The Hastings Banner A Thanksgiving proclamation from 1862 The following was published in the Hastings Banner Nov. 26, 1862. Though the Civil War brought strife to the people of Hastings and all of Michigan, now – and then – we can be thankful for bountiful harvests, general health, civil and religious liberty, knowledge, education and all the other gifts bestowed. After 150 years, the intent of Thanksgiving has changed little. A Proclamation By the Governor Another year has passed away into history. It has been a year of great events; a year of civil war and all the bloody sacrifices, harassing doubts and alternating triumphs and defeats, which surely follow in its track. Vast armies raised from the midst of the people, have gone forth to fight our country’s battles, with a courage and constancy which will brighten the history of the 77572606 Republic for ever, they have beaten back the hosts of rebellion and despotism from the loyal States, and saved our homes from the horrors of invasion. Our liberties and laws are still preserved to us, .at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules and the power of the Government is gradually but surely being reof Hastings area churches available for your convenience... established, over all the territory of the Union. Rebellion is being punished, and upon the wicked authors of this unseemly strife is GRACE COMMUNITY HASTINGS ASSEMBLY OF GOD NEW BEGINNINGS falling the sure reward of their unparalleled sin. 1674 S. State Rd., Hastings, MI CHURCH CHURCH OF GOD The war is carried into the midst of their country, and the victo49058 Phone 269-945-2285. 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor Sunday morning service times: 9 MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, J.C. Crank cordially invites you to rious armies of the Union hasten on to strike them a final blow in a.m. with nursery and preschool (517) 852-9228. Morning come worship with us each Sunday the strongholds of the far South. There are solid grounds of hope available and 11 a.m. with nursery, Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening for a speedy victory and permanent peace. preschool and kids’ church availFellowship Time before the service. Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon While many of our homes are made desolate by the inevitable able. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth Kidder. Interested in knowing more casualties of war, and we mourn the heroic dead, there is consolagroup, adult small group ministry, about our church? Please feel weltion in the faith that the blood of the true patriot is never shed in CHURCH OF CHRIST leadership training. come to call one of these numbers. 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. vain. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) Pastor Collin Pinkston. Phone 269Our people under all their trials, still cling with unflinching firmSOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship Worship Together… .. OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. (Local) 269-945-3327. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Rev. Ryan Wieland. Sundays - 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Service; Sunday School and Nursery available during both services (Summer Schedule - Adult Sunday School: 9 a.m., Worship & Children’s Programs 10 a.m.) Youth Group, Covenant Prayer, Choir, Chimes, Praise Band, Quilting Group, Community Breakfasts and more! Call the church office at (269) 721-8077 (M/W/F 9 a.m.-12 p.m.), e-mail office@mei.net or visit www.countrychapelumc.org <http://www.countrychapelumc.org/> for more information SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 . 945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 8:45 a.m. Traditional Worship; 10 a.m. Refreshments; 10:45 a.m. Contemporary Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Youth Pastor Eric Gillespie. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. New! Starting... Nov. 25... Worship Service 9:15 and Children’s Sunday School (ages 2 thru 5th grade). Worship Service: 10:45 a.m. & Children’s Junior Church (4 years through 4th grade). Junior and Senior High Youth Group 6:00 p.m., and several adult small group opportunities. Wednesday Mid-Week at 6:30 p.m.: Pioneer Club, 4 years through 5th grade. Adults: Marriage Enrichment Class, Women’s Prayer Group and a Men’s Bible Study. Thursday: Senior Adult (50+) Bible Study at 10 a.m. and lunch at Wendy’s, 11:30 a.m. Third Thursday Brunch at 9:30 a.m. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Sunday, Nov. 25 - Worship Service 8 and 10:45 a.m. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Nov. 25 - Constitution Meeting after 2nd service; Men & Women’s Alcoholics Anonymous 7 p.m. Nov. 26 - Adventurer Bible Study 7 p.m. Recovery Bible Study 7:30 p.m. Nov. 28 - Wordwatchers Bible Study. Nov. 29 - Clapper Kids Bell Choir 3:45 p.m.; Grace Notes Bell Choir 5:45 p.m.; Adult Choir 7:15 p.m. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 945-2645, fax 269945-2698. Pastor Amy Luckey. http://www.discover-grace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot.com. Friday - 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday - 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday 4 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Fiberglass Products Lauer Family Funeral Homes 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 Area Obituaries Patrick G. Harrison MIDDLEVILLE, MI - Patrick G. Harrison, of Middleville, passed away November 17, 2012. Pat was born May 26, 1942 on the family farm (Harris Creek Road, Middleville), the son of Walter and Virginia Mae (Hoover) Harrison. A graduate of Thornapple Kellogg High School, class of 1960, Pat worked at Bradford White for five years and then became a loyal employee of Steelcase, retiring in 1999, with over 34 years of service. Pat owned a small hobby farm where he raised beef cattle and chickens, and grew sweet corn (the world's best), pumpkins and hay for family and friends. He also enjoyed hunting and collecting John Deere toy and pedal tractors. A member of Parmelee United Methodist Church, Pat served as chairperson on the pastor parish committee. Pat was recently reelected as trustee on the Thornapple Township Board where he served on the buildings and grounds committee, the Duncan Lake Sewer Authority, and was chairperson of the emergency medical services committee. Pat also formerly served on the Thornapple Township Planning Commission. On July 3, 1965, Pat married the love of his life, Judy Wiesenhofer, who survives. Pat is also survived by a daughter, Nickole Harrison; a son, Corey (Sonja) Harrison; grandchildren, Ethan, Emily, Sophia, Simon and Benjamin Harrison; a brother, Robert (Ellen) Harrison; sisters, Clara Jane Tucker, Virginia Irene (Richard) Ward, Christine Schad, Pauline Brower, and Josephine (Kenneth) Klumpp; a sister-in-law, Judith Harrison; and beloved nieces and nephews. Pat was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, W. James and William; and brothers-in-law, Thomas Tucker and Rex Schad. Pat will be remembered for his kind, compassionate nature. He loved his God, his family, his friends and co-workers. He was known for his fairness and diplomacy, willingness to listen, genuine interest in others, and telling jokes to bring a smile. Pat's family will receive friends Friday, November 23, from 1 to 3 and 6 to 8 p.m., at the Beeler-Gores Funeral Home, Middleville. Pat's funeral service will be conducted, Saturday, November 24, 2012, 11 a.m. at Middleville United Methodist Church, Middleville, Pastors Vance Dimmick and William V. Clegg Jr. officiating. Burial will take place in Mount Hope Cemetery. Please join the family for a luncheon at Middleville United Methodist Church following the committal service for a time of food and fellowship. Memorial contributions to Parmelee United Methodist Church or to Thornapple Township Emergency Services will be appreciated. Please visit www.beelergoresfuneral.com to view Pat's online guest book or to leave a condolence message for his family. David Arlen Sothard David Arlen Sothard, 71, of Buckeye, Ariz. died Oct. 4, 2012, at his home from a pulmonary embolism. Mr. Sothard was born April 23, 1941, in Nashville, to Donald and Norma (Biggs) Sothard of Hastings. He moved to Arizona in 1978 with his family after serving in the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Army. He was a retired elementary school music teacher and postal service carrier. He is survived by two daughters, Deborah Lynn Groseclose of Scottsdale, Ariz. and Melanie Ruth Sothard of Tucson, Ariz.; two sisters, Donna Matthews of Hastings, and Martha Misak of Hastings; one brother, Thomas Sothard of East Jordan; and two grandchildren. Cremation services were provided by the Neptune Society of Tempe, Ariz. Memorial services will be from 12:30 to 1 p.m. Dec. 3 at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, 23029 N. Cave Creek Road in Phoenix, Ariz. Three ejected when vehicle hits tree Two men and a woman were thrown from a vehicle after it collided with a tree on Lammers Road early Saturday morning. Deputies from the Barry County Sheriff’s Department, along with EMS personnel from Barry Township, responded to the accident just south of Ashby Road around 12:30 a.m. Nov. 17. No one in the vehicle was wearing a seatbelt. One man was flown by helicopter to Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo. The second man and the woman were taken by ambulance to Borgess. Alcohol and vehicle speed appear to be factors in the crash, according to the sheriff’s department. The accident remains under investigation. As academy grows, Maple Valley may reopen closed school by Shari Carney Staff Writer With an enrollment of 97 and at least six applications on her desk, Pathways Academy Director Kristine Stewart offered a restructuring of hours to the Maple Valley School Board at its meeting Monday, Nov. 12. Pathways Academy offers three options to a high school diploma for alternative to nontraditional learners. The pathways are virtual (online), adult and non-traditional. “At what point do we need to ask how many more kids can we reach if we had a different space?” asked Board President April Heinze. “This has grown way larger and faster than expected.” In response to a question by Trustee Mark Jorgensen regarding the anticipated 2012-13 goal for enrollment at the academy, Superintendent Ronna Steel said they had hoped for at least 40 students. The physical facilities committee will meet to discuss the feasibility of opening a portion of Maplewood School, said Steel. “At this point I’ve turned no one down,” said Stewart. “We do need to have a serious discussion about space.” Currently, Pathways Academy is housed in the administration office board room. Stewart proposed a realignment of hours to accommodate the increased numbers. “We have had several occasions where we have more kids than computers,” said Stewart. Teachers Wallace Woodman will be available from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Cindy Schwartz from 2 to 9 p.m., allowing for the learning lab to be open more hours. Board Trustee Tony Shaw asked if hiring another teacher is anticipated. Stewart said that by next year she foresees additional staff requirements. “It is a great problem to have,” said Steel, regarding the high enrollment. Call anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 Hastings Community Education & Recreation Center Will be Open … FRIDAY NOVEMBER 23 & SATURDAY NOVEMBER 24 Friday: Gym and Center: 6:30am to 9pm Lap Swim: 6:30am to 9:00am Open Swim: 12:00pm to 3:00pm and 6:00pm to 9:00pm Saturday: Gym and Center: 8:00am to 3:00pm Open Swim: 10:00am to 3:00pm 07615353 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 ness and fidelity to the institutions and government of our country. Trusting in God and the righteousness of our cause, they are ready to incur greater sacrifices and bear heavier burdens in the confidence and hope that the future will more than compensate for the past, and that the blessing of liberty will be permanently secured and greatly increased to our posterity. The destinies of nations and individuals are in the hand of God. For bountiful harvests, for general health among the people, for civil and religious liberty and the diffusion of knowledge and education, for the continued existence of the Republic and the triumphs of its arms, and for all the great and good gifts of a benign Providence, our acknowledgements and praises are due to Him alone. That we may suitably acknowledge our dependence upon Almighty God, and with reverent thankfulness give glory to Him. I do hereby set apart, and appoint Thursday, the 27th Instant, as a Day of Public Thanksgiving and Praise. I request that upon that day the people may assemble in their places of public worship and in their homes, and keep this day in the spirit in which our Fathers kept it, with pure, religious and patriotic hearts, full of faith and hope. Given under my hand and the great seal of the State, at the capital, in the city of Lansing, on the 15th day of November, in the year of Our Lord one-thousand, eighthundred, and -sixty-two. Austin Blair. James B. Porter, Secretary of State. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 22, 2012 — Page 7 Rutland township gets $200,000 for hotel property BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY by Gerald Stein by David DeDecker Staff Writer Plans are moving forward on a hotel in Rutland Charter Township on M-37 near Cook Road. The township will receive $200,000 for the 3.17-acre site on which a 64room Holiday Inn Express will be built. At the Nov. 14 township meeting, Supervisor Jim Carr said the check was scheduled to arrive before Thanksgiving. A letter of agreement between the township board and the Hastings City Council, which defines the meaning of “project” in regard to extending water and sewer services to the hotel site, was approved by the township board in a 5-2 vote with Trustee Rob Lee and Treasurer Sandra Greenfield voting against the agreement. In other business, the 2013 township budget was approved unanimously by the board. Estimated revenue from all funds for 2013 is $906,609 with all fund appropriations for 2013 at $915,083. In comparison, the 2012 NORTH N: 3 M: K J 10 3 L: 10 9 8 6 3 K: K 6 5 WEST N: M: L: K: A Q 10 9 Q752 72 10 9 3 J7654 86 J5 8742 SOUTH: N: K 8 2 M: A 9 4 L: A K Q 4 K: A Q J Dealer: North Vulnerable: North/South Lead: Pick It North Pass L 2L 3K 3NT East Pass Pass Pass Pass South K 2K 2NT 3L ? West Pass Pass Pass Today’s column features a bidder’s dilemma: stop at the safe game in no trump for a sure thing, or keep bidding for that elusive slam. What was South to do with his fourth bid in the auction? Pass for the sure game in 3NT or try for a small slam? Let’s look at the bidding and the points to see if there is any indication which way South should go. Think about the lead from the West hand while you are at it. Good defense is always important for the defenders. After three passes in this auction, South opened with a strong 2K bid, a modern day convention promising at least 22+ points, a forcing bid for partner, and almost always a game or slam try. East/West were silent the entire auction so little or no information could be gained from them. North responded to the artificial club bid by responding 2L, another part of the convention called a waiting bid, and she waited to hear more about her partner South’s big hand. South responded to the waiting bid by answering 2NT, another forcing bid with indication that the South hand was a balanced hand and ideal for playing in no trump. With this new information and some points and a four-card major, North elected to bid 3K, another artificial bid, the Stayman Convention, asking if South had a four-card major. North indeed had a four-card major in hearts to begin this inquiry. South responded to the Stayman request with an appropriate artificial bid as well, bidding 3K, denying that he had a four-card major. At this point, North had done all she could and placed the contract at 3NT. South, however, was not so sure this was the best contract for the North/South team. Would it be possible to make a small slam in no trump with South’s 23 high card points, missing one AN and partner’s 6-9 total points? Remember that a small slam needs 33 points to make on most slam tries. Would there be enough to make a small slam with fewer than 33 points? Adding up the 23 and 6-9 left South a bit short of 33 points. Did South bid again, or did he pass? What would you have done? South basically had three choices: pass, bid, or bid. The pass would have ended the auction, and North/South would have played the hand in 3NT. The first bid was an invitation to go to slam. How did it work? By bidding 4NT, South asked North if there was a possibility for slam. That put a lot of responsibility on North who cannot see the South hand. With 7 high card points and one for length in the diamond suit, North can only count the 22 South has bid and her 8 for a total of 30 points, 3 away from the 33 needed. North has only two choices here: bid 6NT or pass. What did North do? The final choice is with South, the original bidder: instead of putting all of the responsibility on partner North, South can blast his way to 6NT and hope for the best. While this might not be scientifically sound bidding, it does put the contract in 6NT without the danger of a pass by partner North. With three choices, South was the one to make the decision for the partnership on this hand. A pass would be to play in 3NT with the strong possibility that there would be overtricks because of South’s strong hand and good cards. A 4 NT bid would create a hesitant position on South’s part, putting all of the responsibility on North to make the slam decision. If North passed 4NT and it made 6NT, that would look bad for North. If North pushed to 6NT, and it did not make, then it looked like North made the wrong call. South made the choice for the partnership and pulled out the 6NT card. Three passes ended the auction: 6NT in the South. West would have the lead. What defensive lead might provide a winning defense for East/West? West had had a lot of time to think about the lead after all of the bidding by the North/South team. With one sure trick in the AN, should West lead the AN and then look for another trick somewhere? What about the QM? Might that be a potential defensive trick for East/West? Or should West play a safe lead by leading a diamond or a club in hopes of finding partner with a trick? Again, what would you do in this same situation? West did know something from the bidding of the Stayman Convention: North had one fourcard major, and South had neither a four-card heart suit nor a four-card spade suit. Would leading a major suit be the proper lead here? After much agony, West pulled out the AN for his lead against 6NT and led it. He was pleasantly surprised to see only one spade in the dummy, and he was glad that he had not led a heart. With not much help in the spade suit with only the JN, still East wanted West to know that there was something in her hand in spades, so East encouraged West with the 7N, promising something, even if it were just the JN. West continued the spade suit with the 9N hoping that East had the KN for the setting trick. Alas, South had the KN, and the remaining tricks, running the clubs, the diamonds and finessing the QM for 12 tricks and the small slam in No Trump. Both teams worked hard on this hand to reach the right decisions. While North/South prevailed this time, East/West had all of the right thoughts about making a good defensive plan. It did not work this time, but watch out, North/South. ***** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) township board agreed to become a partner at the price of $2,500. Byrnes said the dues can be reviewed on an annual basis. According to Carr, the partnership dues are already listed in the 2013 budget. Carr said Byrnes and the Alliance have been instrumental in bringing new businesses to the township including the new hotel. The township will pay $1,437 to the Michigan Townships Association for a sevenmonth membership. Clerk Robin Hawthorne said the membership is valuable to her, and she gets answers to many questions she poses to MTA staff. Board members agreed to reevaluate the value of membership before renewing it in June. The township board also voted 5-2 to approve the Rutland-Hastings Urban Services and Economic Development Agreement. Lee and Greenfield voted against the agreement. The next Rutland Charter Township Board meeting will be Wednesday, Dec. 12, at 7:30 p.m. in the township hall. Social News Newborn Babies Oliver Maxwell, born at Sparrow Hospital on Nov. 6, 2012 at 11:06 p.m. to Nick and Lynn (McCallum) Taylor of Mason. Weighing 7 lbs. 11 ozs. and 21 inches long. ***** Draven Micheal, born at Pennock Hospital on Nov. 6, 2012 at 3:18 p.m. to Tina Barbey and Bruce Tobias of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 6 ozs. and 19 1/2 inches long. ***** TWINS, Gabriel Alexander and Connor Joseph, born at Pennock Hospital on Nov. 7, 2012 to Timothy and Nichole Wood of Hastings. Gabriel was born at 12:26 p.m. and weighed 6 lbs. 2 ozs. and was 19 inches long. Connor was born at 12:56 p.m. and weighed 5 lbs. 13 ozs. and was 18 1/2 inches long. ***** Alexis Rose, born at Pennock Hospital on Nov. 9, 2012 at 10:13 a.m. to Dennis and Lisa Hansen of Dowling. Weighing 6 lbs. 15 ozs.. ***** Hanna Marie, born at Pennock Hospital on Nov. 9, 2012 at 8:42 a.m. to Jamie and Jesse Cappon of Hastings. Weighing 8 lbs. 5 ozs. and 22 inches long. ***** Mason Shane, born at Pennock Hospital on Nov. 11, 2012 at 4:55 p.m. to Shane and Michelle Slaughter of Hastings. Weighing 6 lbs. 15 ozs. and 19 inches long. Lykins brothers turn 88 The Lykins brothers will be celebrating their 88th birthday on November 25, 2012. If you would like to help them celebrate, please send a birthday card to: Charlie/ Sherm Lykins, 5282 Thornapple Lake Road, Nashville, MI 49073. Krammins to celebrate golden wedding anniversary Timothy Todd Blessing, Hastings and Diana Renna McDiarmid, Hastings. Francis Henry Bidelman, Nashville and Janet Irene Crawford, Hastings. On the first Saturday of December 1962, Charles and Verle (Melinn) Krammin were united in marriage at Holy Name of Jesus Church in Wyoming. Children of the couple are Dan Krammin of Hastings, Amy and David Shao of Palo Alto, California, Joe and Janet Krammin of Parchment. They have one grandson, Jack. A family get-together was held in July. They have enjoyed living on their farm on Durkee Rd. for the past 50 years. Licensed / Insured / Local 77572310 06795511 Miracle on 34th Street FREE Consultation & Estimates! ALSO EGRESS WINDOWS / MOLD REMEDIATION ® Driver The Thornapple Players will present Call Scott 517-290-5556 • 877-448-1548 $2,500 Sign-on Bonus The Adapted by Mountain Community Theater from the novel by Valentine Davies. Based upon the Twentieth Century Fox motion picture Miracle on 34th Street. NOV. 29, 30, & DEC. 1 AT 7PM & DEC. 1 AT 3PM & DEC. 2 AT 2PM in Leason Sharpe Hall Barry Community Enrichment Center 231 South Broadway, Hastings Tickets available in advance Progressive Graphics • • • • • Tickets are $8 for adults and $6 for senior citizens (62 and over) and students. 07615359 Questions, call 269-945-2332. or 269 945 9249 ask for Doug Hiring Solo and Team Drivers Great Benefits Package Excellent Home Time CDL-A Required Students with CDL-A Welcome 888-471-7081 www.superservicellc.com 07615351 77564841 N: M: L: K: EAST budget shows $906,575 and $911,113, respectively. Carr said cuts were made across the board again this year. A copy of the budget is available at the Rutland Township Hall. Green Gables Haven will receive $3,000 from the township to support victims of domestic violence. As in past years, the donation is in the budget. The board voted to forgive an outstanding tax bill $2,138 to Charter Cable for Internet cable buried along an old railroad bed. The township was informed by the State of Michigan the taxes must be paid to the state, not to the township. Valerie Byrnes of the Barry County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Alliance requested Rutland Charter Township become a partner, just as Thornapple Township and the Village of Middleville have already done. Byrnes will be asking all Barry County townships to become partners with the organization. The �Page 8 — Thursday, November 22, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of by Elaine Garlock Christmas ’Round the Town comes this weekend. Flyers are available in stores and at stops listing the private homes that are open, most with multiple exhibitors, and also the stops with several vendors. The Lake Odessa Museum Complex with its depot and freight House will have 10 dealers besides a sale of baked goods. Pleasant Valley United Brethren Church on M-50 West has several vendors, as does the VFW Post where lunch will be available. Likewise Pleasant Valley will be serving lunch. Spend locally. Why battle the crowds at the mall when you can buy clever items right close to home? St. Edwards Church has a new schedule for masses. Saturday Mass remains at 5 p.m., but the Sunday morning mass is now at 9 a.m., with two priests alternating between Ionia and Lake Odessa. The Lakewood varsity volleyball team won the Michigan state championship Saturday, with a score of 3-0 over North Branch. Lakewood’s height proved to be a factor along with the team’s fierce work and competitive spirit. Kellie Rowland has been their coach since seventh grade, so they are a close-knit group. Last week’s Retired School personnel Meeting was well attended with a lunch prepared by the Class Act group Heartlands. Gifts from the members amounted to several hundred dollars, which will go to Eight Camp for Christmas gifts for their young clients. Members were entertained by the Ionia Community Band, under the direction of Andy McFarland, a member of MARSP. Alethians of Central United Methodist Church met Nov. 13. Marti Lund gave a demonstration on candy making with her audience getting to eat the results of her work. It was a fascinating demonstration. Women of Central United Methodist Church met Monday, Nov. 12, with Sue Balderson of Hastings the guest speaker. Members brought their thank offerings, which were collected in a segment of the program led by Betty Shetterly using a theme of seeds. The Lakewood Ministerial Association this year did not hold its customary Thanksgiving Eve service due to a lack of members at the planning session. Monday, Nov. 26, the Mulliken Chapter 161 Order of Eastern Star will host a joint school of instruction with the Kalamo Chapter in the Masonic Temple with a potluck supper at 5, followed by the school at 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 2, the First Congregational Church of Lake Odessa will have a hanging of the greens at the 9:30 a.m. church service. Finger foods will later be in the dining room. The board of directors of the Lake Odessa Area Historical Society met Monday evening. The lease for the land on which the depot and freight house site has been renewed for another 25 years and another lease for additional acreage adjacent has also been leased again. Tentative plans were made for programs for the next six months. The village has invested in four new blue signs, at strategic locations on Tupper Lake Street to indicate the downtown Fourth Avenue location of police station, post office, village offices and stores. With Fourth Avenue running parallel to Jordan Lake Avenue, there is little indication on such a county road to denote where the heart of the town is. Even the two water towers are far removed from the town center. Governor appoints Middleville woman to special council Gov. Rick Snyder recently appointed Middleville’s Conny Raaymakers to the Michigan Interagency Coordinating Council for Infants and Toddlers with Developmental Disabilities. Housed within the Michigan Department of Education, the 21-member council advises and assists the department in providing early intervention services for infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families. Raaymakers is a behavioral psychologist in a Grand Rapids-based private practice and is a positive behavior support consultant for Grand Rapids Public Schools. Previously, she served as a behavior analyst and behavior specialist for the Hope Network’s Center for Autism and Developmental Adolescence res- Battle those low rates – with three types of income If you depend on fixed-income investments for at least part of your income, you probably haven’t been too happy in recent years, as interest rates have hit historic lows. Nonetheless, even in a low-rate environment, you can broaden the income-producing potential of your investment portfolio. However, before taking action, it’s helpful to know what the near-term direction of interest rates may look like. The Federal Reserve has stated that it plans to keep short-term rates at their current historic lows until at least mid2015. The Fed doesn’t control long-term rates, making them somewhat less predictable, but it’s still likely that these rates will rise sooner than short-term ones. In any case, rather than worry about something you can’t control – that is, interest rate movements – try to focus on those things you can accomplish. And one achievable goal is to create an investment mix that includes three types of income: variable, reliable and rising. • Variable income investments – Some variable income investments, such as certificates of deposit (CDs), offer significant protection of principal, and the value of your investment won’t change with fluctuating interest rates, provided you hold your CD until maturity. Of course, current rates are quite low, which means CDs provide you with little income today, but their rates have the potential to rise along with short-term interest rates. • Reliable income investments – When you purchase reliable income investments, which can include individual bonds, you have the opportunity to earn more income today, and more consistent income over time, than you’d typically get from variable income investments. However, you will likely also experience greater price fluctuations as interest rates change. Specifically, as interest rates rise, the price of your existing bonds typically will fall. • Rising income investments – When investing for income, you’ll want to keep at least one eye on inflation – because if the interest idential treatment program. Raaymakers has bachelor’s and master’s degrees in psychology from Central Michigan University and Western Michigan University, respectively. She will represent public or private providers or early intervention services and replaces Elaine Smiley. Also appointed were Sondra Stegenga of Holland and Stephanie Peters of Eaton Rapids. “These individuals are great choices for this board, and I am confident they will do outstanding work on behalf of the children and families of Michigan,” said Snyder. Appointees will serve four- year terms that expire Oct. 31, 2016. GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. 77572548 77572545 77572551 77572542 77572557 77572554 EDWARD JONES rates paid on your CDs and individual bonds are lower than the annual inflation rate, you may lose purchasing power. If this gap persists over time, it could grow into a real problem for you. Consequently, you’ll want at least some of your investment income to come from rising income investments, such as dividend-paying stocks. Of course, not all stocks pay dividends, but with the help of your financial advisor, you can find companies that have paid – and even increased – their dividends for many years running. And if you don’t actually need the dividends to supplement your cash flow, you can reinvest them to build your ownership stake in these stocks. Keep in mind, though, that companies can reduce or discontinue dividends at any time. Also, remember that stock prices will constantly rise and fall, so the value of your principal could decline. As you can see, all three types of incomeproducing investments – variable, reliable and rising – offer some benefits, along with some risks of which you need to be aware. But putting together a mix of these investments that’s appropriate for your individual needs, goals and risk tolerance may help you boost the productivity of the “income” portion of your portfolio – no matter what’s happening with interest rates. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 32.56 +1.38 AT&T 33.82 -.13 BP PLC 41.23 +.69 CMS Energy Corp 23.26 +.28 Coca-Cola Co 37.24 +1.08 Eaton 50.25 +.78 Family Dollar Stores 69.36 +3.54 Fifth Third Bancorp 14.48 +.48 Flowserve CP 138.23 +1.68 Ford Motor Co. 10.83 -.17 General Mills 40.46 +1.11 General Motors 24.93 +.11 Intel Corp. 20.25 -.03 Kellogg Co. 54.74 +.92 McDonald’s Corp 85.04 +.40 Pfizer Inc. 24.14 +.09 Perrigo Co. 101.92 -1.51 Ralcorp 71.12 -.12 Sears Holding 47.86 -12.04 Spartan Motors 4.61 -.13 Spartan Stores 14.08 +.27 Stryker 53.00 +.32 TCF Financial 11.34 +.25 Walmart Stores 69.02 -2.79 Gold $1731.60 +$6.55 Silver $33.12 +.66 Dow Jones Average 12,795 +.39 Volume on NYSE 661M +.28M Progress in breast cancer research by Dr. E. Kirsten Peters I have an elderly aunt who was diagnosed with breast cancer many years ago. She was treated and remained cancer-free for years. But I also had a next-door neighbor who got the same diagnosis. She was treated, but succumbed to the disease not too long after. My experience is not unique. Those of us who have been around the block a few times know people who have survived breast cancer and people who have died from it. Why the differences in results from person to person? Part of the reason is that breast cancer is really several different diseases. There are four major types of the disease, with variations in those four categories. The four major types have the challenging names of basallike, luminal A, luminal B and HER2enriched. Recently, researchers announced a step forward in studying the different types of breast cancer, a step toward coming up with better treatments down the road. Matthew Meyerson is one of the authors on a recent and major paper published in the journal Nature. He is a researcher with the Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston. Meyerson talked to National Public Radio about a project he and many other researchers completed, studying 825 breast cancer patients. “We basically studied the genomes of breast cancers from each of these women in comparison to the genomes of the rest of their bodies,” Meyerson said in an interview on NPR. As more knowledge about cancers accumulates, treatments can evolve in a positive direction. For example, certain genetic mutations may be behind basal-like breast cancer and ovarian cancer, especially in certain women. For them, it may be that future treatments could use ovarian cancer drugs for breast cancer treatment. In the language of these matters, patients and researchers alike like hope for a silver bullet that could be used in treatment — a medication or therapy plan that would make all the difference in survival rates. But Meyerson cautions that recent research, while promising, is a long way from anything like a silver bullet. “I think in the end, to treat cancer, we’re going to be developing a lot of specific silver bullets, but we’ll need to use them in combination,” Meyerson said. The lead author on the study recently published in Nature also used the metaphor of silver bullets. He said the disease is complicated, but that progress is being made. “The bad news is that [breast cancer] is complicated. And we have to figure out which bullet is to be used, where and when,” said Charles Perou of the University of North Carolina, speaking with NPR. Unfortunately, it may be years before treatment is changed due to the research recently announced. That’s often the way with science: good work on the research frontier may come years before practical applications are developed for real-world difference in things like medical treatment. That’s the case in part because research must run down many avenues simultaneously, some of which will yield fruitful results and some that simply will not. “[Doing] genomic screening, that’s not the end goal,” said Fran Visco of the National Breast Cancer Coalition. “That is simply a tool, a step on the way to figuring out how to save lives.” Visco is brutally honest about where we stand with respect to breast cancer treatment and the recent research. “We have to be careful what we celebrate. And we have to be careful what we consider to be a success. We are nowhere near success,” Visco said to NPR. Starting with an optimistic frame of mind, Perou said he thinks the new research might translate into treatment differences in two to five years. The most likely scenario is that treatment would first change for luminal breast cancer, the most common type of the malady. That’s the case because it has comparatively few mutations. According to the American Cancer Society, about 40,000 women die each year from breast cancer. That makes the malignancy second only to lung cancer in terms of deadly effects. Let’s hope the treatments for breast cancer improve at a recordbreaking pace. Dr. E. Kirsten Peters, a native of the rural Northwest, was trained as a geologist at Princeton and Harvard universities. This column is a service of the College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences at Washington State University. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 22, 2012 — Page 9 Pioneer school boy ran away and became Civil War soldier, final The following is part of a series that began in the April 30, 1914, Hastings Banner regarding Hickory Corners native Alonzo D. Cadwallader, and his recollections as a boy soldier. He was assigned to Company K, 17th Michigan Infantry when he enlisted just shy of his 15th birthday. He reportedly said he was 18 and from Kalamazoo. This picks up after Cadwallader and fellow underage soldier Eli Busha of Spring Arbor are walking home after running away from their Union Army camp. This column concludes the series. ***** Through Ohio their progress was more rapid and less dangerous. They did not shun the towns – boldness is a shield, it timidity invites detection. At one place where they stopped for a meal they meet an officer in uniform who wore a captain’s epaulets. They were heartily welcomed as his guests, but were surprised and embarrassed. They were in for it, however, and had to make the best of it – they could not do otherwise. They had unwittingly entered the trap and their care was then not to spring it – the narrator was the spokesman. “Too many cooks spoil the broth.” They had grown wise by their experiences. Busha was a Frenchman and talked French, with a little mixture of broken English, when he didn’t want to talk, but talked good English when he was in a talkative mood – so the Frenchman soon became a quiet listener. The most of their talk was about the war, in a general way, and the events that led up to it. The narrator was anxious to lead the conversation as far as possible from matters concerning himself and comrade, for those matters were delicate subjects of discussion at that time in the presence of and with an officer. At his first opportunity, the narrator led off in the discussion of events that led up to the events then afflicting their country. The discussion rambled o’er a field of which the following is a condensed statement: As early as 1835, a secret organization, called “Knights of the Golden Circle,” was organized in South Carolina by leaders previously engaged in the nullification movements. Its chief corner-stone was slavery, and its object the disruption of the Union. The organization spread rapidly throughout the South, and strange to say, many of those Knights abode in northern states. Those seditious Knights dreamed dreams of conquest as well as the disruption of the union, and organized filibustering expeditions to the South. The circle they had prescribed as Golden necessarily had to have a center – that center was Havana in Cuba. The empire they sought to establish had a radius of 16 degrees of latitude and longitude, reaching northward to Pennsylvania and southward as far as the Isthmus of Darien, and included within its borders the West India Islands and those of the Caribbean Sea, a large part of Eastern Mexico and the whole of South America. The insidious workings of that secret order continually encroached upon Freedom’s soil, and made it evident to the candid thinker that this republic could not endure divided against itself – part free, part slave. The Compromise Act of 1850 was passed as a pacifier, but it did not pacify. The moral sense of the people of the north was shocked by the passage of the Fugitive Slave Law, which compelled them to become slave catchers. In 1854, Stephan A. Douglas introduced a bill in the Senate for the erection of two territories to be called Kansas and Nebraska. The bill provided that the inhabitants of those territories should decide for themselves whether slavery should or should not exist within their respective borders. The proposed nullification of the Missouri Compromise raised a rancorous debate in Congress, but the bill passed, and Robert Toombs of Georgia boasted that he would yet “call the roll of his slaves on Bunker Hill.” Thus the breach widened – then came the civil war in Kansas in 1856, when every thinking man saw the irrepressible conflict that must arise in a government part free and part slave. Such a condition could not be tolerated, for it meant perpetual war. The Mason and Dixon’s Line was the Rubicon, [point of no return] the seditious Knights of the Golden Circle forced their followers across, and Walker’s invasion of Nicaragua and the promulgation of the doctrine of the “Ostend Manifesto” were but crystallizing and carrying out their dreams of Empire. Then came the Dred Scott decision by the Supreme Court of the United States presided over by Chief Justice Roger B. Taney, who delivered the opinion of the court, and, with the sanction of a majority of the court, when outside of the question of jurisdiction before the court, and delivered an extra judicial opinion and declared that the framers and supporters of the Declaration of Independence did not include the Negro Race in the proclamation that “all men are created equal,” which opinion was pigeonholed until after the election of President James Buchanan for prudential reasons. Then came John Brown’s raid and seizure of the armory at Harper’s Ferry in 1859. His capture, trial and execution, kindled the flame that brought speedily to a head the cankering political sore, and, April 12, 1861, the first gun was fired on Fort Sumter, and the Civil War was on. Thus the conversation ran with the captain who seemed surprised to find his young guest so well posted. He pressed them to stay with him for a few days and rest, but no, they were paroled prisoners and were anxious to report at their earliest opportunity. He thought he might secure them a railroad pass to Columbus. No! They appreciated his kindness, but they much enjoyed their tramp across country. They parted cordially. How different was their host from the captain of Company K. At a railroad station they passed along to a freight engine and engaged in conversation with the engineer oiling up the joints of his old iron horse. They soon won his sympathy. He had a brother in the service, their uniforms were passports on his train. He said he was against the rules of the road to take anyone on his engine, but if they would pass around to the other side so they could not be observed from the station, they might climb into his cab just before he pulled the throttle – at the next station he would have time to find a more convenient place for them to ride. They needed no second invitation to aid that accommodating engineer to violate the rules of the road. It was close quarters for four people in that cab, but they kept out of the way of the engineer and fireman as much as possible. They enjoyed the trip immensely as the old engine went pounding down the road – it was hilarious – much better than hiking across country, especially o’er mountain ranges, or the long weary march over dusty roads on a hot day with a 60-pound knapsack strapped to their back. When they arrived at the next station the engineer gave them a special – an empty palace car of freight variety. They found some empty boxes so they could sit by the partly open door and view the scenery when in motion. They were instructed to close the door when the train was at rest. Thus they were the honored guests of that patriotic engineer in the end of his run – a hundred miles or more. When they arrived near Jackson, their paths diverged and they parted company – Busha’s home being at Spring Arbor and Cadwallader’s on a farm a mile south of Hickory Corners. As the narrator was nearing home he passed a couple of farmers in a lumber wagon whom he knew, but passed them without recognition. After he passed, he heard one of them say, “I’ll bet that is Lon Cad.” He came up to the house across the field through the orchard and met his mother in the yard. She stood transfixed with surprise and astonishment when first she saw her son standing before her. It was the first news from him since his arrival in Washington, and she knew, from the papers, that his regiment had been engaged in the great battles of South Mountain and Antietam and had lost heavily in those engagements. Paltry words cannot begin to describe the anguish that had wrung her heart during those anxious days and sleepless nights. When one stops to consider that she was only one of tens of thousands of mothers, both North and South, who had had similar experiences, and then add to that the anxiety of wives and sweethearts and poor mourning sisters, and one can only begin to realize the horrors of a fratricidal war. The reaction that followed that great surprise the reader is left to conjecture, since it was too sacred for vulgar eyes to scan – angels only should view such scenes. That was more than 50 years ago, and that sainted mother has been dead more than 30 years, yet all is as fresh in heart and memory as though it was but yesterday. When finally she led the way into the house, her son refused to follow. She looked at him in astonishment, wondering if he was really flesh and blood or only an apparition. No, she said, you put the boiler on the stove, roll out the old wash tub and hunt up a change of raiment. The narrator did not forget his mother in that hour of joyful meeting. He wished to save her future care and worry. He had planned a great surprise for the graybacks. He had resolved that no army louse should cross the threshold of that sacred house. He planned a hot water bath for his military friends who had stuck closer to him than a brother – every stitch of his raiment was soused beneath the steaming water. The district school at Hickory Corners was attended during the winter. On the 12th day of March, 1863, Capt. Douglas of Augusta called for a soldier boy at his mother’s home – she claimed [Douglas] he had no legal title to her son, since he was under 18 years of age, and she protested. He had a duty to perform, he said. It was arranged that the soldier boy would meet him the next day at Augusta where he wished to take the train for Detroit to report. The appointment was promptly kept, and on reaching Detroit, habeas corpus proceedings were instituted in the district court of the United States for the Eastern District of Michigan, and the soldier boy was promptly discharged from all military authority and control and returned home again with his mother and resumed his school without much loss of time. He was free now from Company K and its captain whom he hated above all other men on account of ill treatment. It would naturally be supposed that with all of his experiences, a boy so young would not care again to enter the military service, for it was no guesswork with him – he knew what war was, but not so. It was not long after his release before he began to talk about re-entering the service and tried to win his mother’s consent, but she was obstinate and refused to listen to his pleadings. He argued that he was no better than other mother’s sons who were at the front, and, besides, he felt under a moral obligations to serve out the three years, at least, for which he had enlisted. She overruled every plea and threatened to whip him if he did not behave. He loved his mother as well as any boy could – yes, he adored her, but nevertheless he felt an irresistible call to the front again. He had a boy chum and schoolmate by the name of James M. Elliott. In after years Dr. Elliott, who at times exhibited symptoms of the war fever that naturally cemented the ties of friendship between them, and they began to plan and calculate together. Finally about the latter part of August 1863, they went to Kalamazoo and enlisted in the 14th Michigan Light Artillery, and they were soon performing the routine duties of camp life. Just how their mothers found out where they were, they did not know, but they found out and appeared on muster day and protested against mustering their sons into the United States military service on account of their age. The mustering officer grumbled and told the mothers they would have to go home and get the boys clothes, since he would not permit them to retain their uniforms if not mustered. The boys had sold their citizens clothes. The mothers replied that they had brought suits, so there was no excuse for the mustering officer and he ordered the boys to stand aside and refused to muster them. There they were – barred from the service on account of their age and the objection of their mothers. They felt humiliated when they donned citizens’ attire and bade their comrades farewell. They were preparing to depart for the front. The mothers pleaded with their sons not to run away again and enlist. The boys promised they would not enlist again without their mothers’ consent before they arrived at the age of 18 years. This ended the checkered career of a boy in war time. ~~~ Although Cadwallader lied about his age and then left his company without permission, history recorded his service, albeit under somewhat false pretenses. The official publication, Michigan Volunteers in the Civil War, printed in 1900, reads: “Cadwallader, Alonzo D., Kalamazoo. Enlisted in Company K, 17th Infantry, June 27, 1862 at Jackson for three years, age 18. Mustered Aug. 16, 1862. Present resident, Hastings.” He went on to write at least one collection of poetry. Cadwallader died Oct. 27, 1933 in Hastings at the age of 87. He is buried in the East Hickory Corners Cemetery. State News Roundup Most local leaders say personal property tax is complex, but important A majority of Michigan’s local government leaders believe revenue from the personal property tax is important to their budgets, according to a University of Michigan survey. The Michigan Personal Property Tax is assessed on businesses for property such as equipment, furniture and computers, and raises revenue in nearly every local jurisdiction. The tax has been a target of tax reform in Michigan among those who argue that its complexity makes it burdensome for both businesses and local governments, and that it discourages economic development by penalizing business investments. Distrust of the state may be a factor in tax reform. “More than two-thirds of local leaders tell us they don’t trust the state government to follow through on commitments it might make to replace lost personal property tax revenues,” said Tom Ivacko, who oversees the poll by the U-M’s Ford School of Public Policy. The poll, part of the Michigan Public Policy Survey series at the Ford School’s Center for Local, State and Urban Policy, reports that: • Among jurisdictions that report receiving the revenue, 51 percent say that the funds are important for their budgets. This increases to 83 percent of the state’s largest jurisdictions. • At the same time, many local leaders believe the tax has significant drawbacks. Despite those drawbacks, 46 percent of local leaders whose jurisdictions receive the revenue believe the funding is worth the difficulties the tax presents, compared to just 30 percent who feel the opposite. • Nearly three-quarters, or 74 percent, of affected local leaders would support elimination of the tax if the state replaces the revenues in full. Support drops sharply to 44 percent of leaders if the state were to replace most, but not all, of the revenue. The study, conducted April 9 to June 18, involved surveys sent via hard copy and the Internet to top elected and appointed officials in all counties, cities, villages and townships in Michigan. A total of 1,329 jurisdictions returned valid surveys, resulting in a 72-percent response rate. For more information, visit http://closup.umich.edu/michigan Michigan moves toward state/federal partnership health exchange Thursday, Nov. 15, was a key funding deadline. There are also multiple operational deadlines. The next major milestone is Dec. 14, when states must declare if they wish to operate their own exchanges. Under current federal rules, all exchanges must be operational by Oct. 1, 2013. 51 sex offenders arrested in statewide sweep The Michigan State Police announced Nov. 16 the arrest of 51 non-compliant sex offenders during Operation Verify, an initiative aimed at increasing compliance with Michigan’s sex offender registration law. This was the state’s ninth annual coordinated sweep. More than 90 federal, state and local law enforcement agencies participated in the statewide sweep, which ran from Oct. 16 to 30. During the sweep period, officers conducted compliance checks at the registered residences of 1,742 offenders, resulting in 51 arrests and 116 warrant requests for violations of the Michigan Sex Offenders Registration Act. The Michigan Sex Offenders Registration Act requires registered sex offenders to regularly report to their local law enforcement agency, sheriff’s office or nearest state police post to verify their address. A tier classification is assigned to each registered sex offender based on the requirements in the Act. In addition to Operation Verify, the MSP participates in several local and regional sweeps each year. The department also maintains a list of the most wanted sex offenders at www.michigan.gov/absconders. As of Oct. 1, there were 40,155 offenders on the Michigan Sex Offender Registry, of whom 37,261 were in compliance with registry requirements. Gov. Rick Snyder filed a grant application to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Service to collaborate with the federal government on a state partnership exchange. The governor said, however, that if additional federal deadlines are extended or the Michigan Legislature takes action authorizing a statebased exchange, then Michigan may exercise its option for the proposed MI Health Marketplace. According to a press release from the governor’s office Nov. 16, Snyder had not yet filed a declaration letter formally choosing Michigan’s path. “Ensuring that Michigan residents have the best available quality health care and customer service has been a priority from Day 1” he said. “I have felt strongly that a Michigan-run MI Health Marketplace could further accomplish this goal. That said, we must be realistic about how feasible implementing this could be under the current federal time frames. At this point, we’re moving toward a state partnership exchange. However, we will continue to work with our legislative partners and seek more details and clarity from the federal government to make a final determination on Michigan’s path forward – whether that’s a state partnership exchange or statebased exchange.” November 19, 2012 To whom it may concern: The Special Assessment public hearing for the Pine Lake Aquatic Plant Control Project scheduled for November 27, 2012 at the Delton High School has been rescheduled to a later date to be determined. Please check out our website at prairievilletwp-mi.org for more information and updates on this issue. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us here at the township office. Sincerely, Ted DeVries, Clerk Prairieville Township 07615287 The Middleville Village Council will hold a public hearing to receive public comment on the proposed Fiscal Year 2013 Village Budget at 7:00 PM on November 27, 2012 in the Council Chambers of the Village Hall, 100 E. Main Street, Middleville, MI 49333. PRAIRIEVILLE TWP. • NOTICE • VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE PUBLIC NOTICE THE PROPERTY TAX MILLAGE RATE PROPOSED TO BE LEVIED TO SUPPORT THE PROPOSED BUDGET WILL BE A SUBJECT OF THIS HEARING. The proposed budget will be available for public inspection at the Village Office, 100 E. Main Street, Middleville, MI beginning November 21, 2012. The proposed budget can also be viewed on the Village website www.villageofmiddleville.org Questions or comments may be directed to the Village Manager/Finance Director at 269-7953385. Dated: November 13, 2012 Elaine W. Denton Village Clerk 06796035 VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE PUBLIC NOTICE The Middleville Village Council will hold a public hearing to receive pubic comment on the proposed ordinance amendment to allow the keeping of chickens within the Village limits at 7:00 PM on November 27, 2012 in the Council Chambers of the Village Hall, 100 E. Main Street, Middleville, MI 49333. Questions or comments may be directed to the Village Manager/Finance Director at 269-795-3385. Elaine W. Denton Village Clerk 77572617 �Page 10 — Thursday, November 22, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Record meat exports benefit Michigan’s corn industry While not all the numbers are in, it appears that beef and pork exports from the United States will have another good year. In terms of volume, pork exports are on pace with records that were set in 2011, and beef exports are down from last year, according to a press release from the Corn Marketing Program of Michigan. In terms of value, through the third quarter of 2012, both pork and beef exports remain ahead of last year’s record-setting pace. Due to the livestock sector continuing to be the No. 1 consumer of corn and corn co-products, the Corn Marketing Program of Michigan partners with the U.S. Meat Export Federation to help increase worldwide demand for U.S. beef, pork, veal and lamb. Jim Zook, CMPM executive director, recently returned from the USMEF Board of Directors meetings in Indianapolis. In 2011, approximately 77 million bushels of Michigan corn and 513,000 metric tons of dried distillers grains — a co-product of ethanol production — were fed to livestock in state. In addition, much of Michigan’s corn and DDGs were fed to livestock in other states. Since livestock is vital to Michigan’s corn farmers, and consumption of meat in the United States has decreased in recent years, the CMPM board feels it is important to support the livestock industry by creating and maintaining export markets for U.S. meat. “Last year, the U.S. exported more than $5.4 billion worth of beef products and more than $6.1 billion worth of pork products, both of which were records,” Zook said. “For corn producers, the growth in the export markets for beef and pork means potential market opportunities for increased feed sales to these producers. [Since] the world population has now topped 7 billion people, U.S. farmers must be ready to feed that growing population — and exporting corn through meat is a great way to do it.” Just as a flourishing livestock industry is crucial to corn farmers, the international meat trade is essential to U.S. livestock producers. Annually, 27 percent of domestic pork production is exported, while nearly 13 percent of total beef production is exported. Last year, for the first time in history, both beef and pork exports broke the $5 billion mark for export value. Visit www.micorn.org for more information. LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Diana Marie Peters, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 10, 2003, and recorded on January 22, 2003 in instrument 1096042, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Flagstar Bank, FSB as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Fifty-Six Thousand Two Hundred Thirty-One and 43/100 Dollars ($56,231.43). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on December 20, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 69, Lynden Johncock Plat #1, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 93. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 22, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #402486F03 77572606 (11-22)(12-13) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF A MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on June 11, 2004, by Jeffrey L. Noteboom and Diane M. Noteboom, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, given by them to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on June 17, 2004, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 1129483, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank by an Assignment of Mortgage dated February 29, 2012, recorded on March 8, 2012, in Instrument Number 201203080002412, Barry County Records, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of One Hundred One Thousand Five Hundred Fifty-Four and 56/100 Dollars ($101,554.56); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, December 13, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF HASTINGS, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: Lot 17 and the West half of Lot 18 of East-Mar-Heights, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats on Page 22, Hastings Township, Barry County, Michigan. Commonly known as: 1630 Boulder Drive, Hastings, Michigan 49058 Parcel Number: 08-06-225-017-00 The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: November 1, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933 (517) 37177572291 8253 (11-08)(11-29) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Bonnie Clark a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Great Lakes Mortgage Company, LLC, Mortgagee, dated May 21, 2003, and recorded on August 15, 2003 in instrument 1111025, and modified by Affidavit or Order received by and recorded, and assigned to Fifth Third Mortgage Company as further evidenced in a Affidavit Of Lost Assignment dated September 18, 2012 recorded on September 26, 2012 in instrument 2012-004994, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy Thousand Three Hundred Fifteen and 10/100 Dollars ($70,315.10). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on December 20, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 44 of The Andrews Addition to the City, formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 22, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #402153F01 77572515 (11-22)(12-13) IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT 248-5021502. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by William G Mosher, Samantha L Mosher, husband and wife, to Fifth Third mortgage - MI, LLC, Mortgagee, dated September 16, 2005 and recorded September 19, 2005 in Instrument Number 1153026, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Fifth Third Mortgage Company by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Four Thousand Eight Hundred Forty-Two and 90/100 Dollars ($104,842.90) including interest at 6% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 11/29/2012. Said premises are located in the Village of Freeport, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Land situated in the Village of Freeport, County of Barry, State of Michigan: Lots 3 and 4 of Block 11 of Samuel Roush's Addition to the Village of Freeport, according to the recorded plat thereof, being a part of the North 1/2 of Section 1, Town 4 North, Range 9 West. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: November 1, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 200.9462 (11-01)(11-22) 77572092 SYNOPSIS ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING November 13, 2012 Meeting called to order at 7:00. All board members present. Approved minutes from the October 2, 2012 meeting with corrections. Treasurer’s report read and put on file. Fire report read and put on file. Approved hiring of probationary firefighter. Commissioner’s report read. Library report read. Parks and Recreation report read. Public Comment received. Approved motion to retain Republic Services. Approved motion to pay the bills. Approved motion to adjourn. Submitted by Jennifer Goy-Clerk 06795982 Attested to by Thomas Rook-Supervisor FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: James Shoebridge and Janice L. Shoebridge, a Married Couple to CitiFinancial, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 27, 2006 and recorded August 4, 2006 in Instrument # 1168134 Barry County Records, Michigan on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Nine Thousand Three Hundred Fifteen Dollars and Fourteen Cents ($99,315.14) including interest 6% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on December 13, 2012 Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots numbers 379, and the East one-quarter of Lot 380, of the City (formerly Village) of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded Plat thereof. Commonly known as 414 W Mill St., Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 11/15/2012 CitiFinancial, Inc. Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-70642 (11-15)(12-06) NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE STEPHEN L. LANGELAND, P.C. A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTENTION PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has occurred in a Mortgage made by Jason E. Gleason and Frances J. Gleason to Omni Family Credit Union n/k/a Omni Community Credit Union dated December 12, 2002, and recorded on December 18, 2002 at Document No. 1093911 Barry County Records. No proceedings have been instituted to recover any part of the debt, secured by the mortgage or any part thereof and the amount now claimed to be due on the debt is $76,734.93. The Mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the property at public auction to the highest bidder, for cash, on December 13, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., local time, at the East entrance, Barry County Courthouse, Hastings, Michigan. The property will be sold to pay the amount then due on the Mortgage, together with interest at 5.75% per annum, legal costs, attorney fees, and also any taxes or insurance or other advances and expenses due under mortgage or permitted under Michigan law. The property to be sold is described as: Located in Barry County, Michigan: A tract of land commencing at the SW corner of the SE 1/4 of S9, T1N, R7W; thence N 400 feet; thence E 300 feet; Thence S 400 feet; thence W 300 feet to the point of beginning. Which has the address of: 7543 Cox Rd., Bellevue, MI 49021. During the six months immediately following the sale the property may be redeemed, unless determined to be abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241(a), in which case the redemption period shall be thirty (30) days from the date of sale. Dated: November 12, 2012 OMNI Community Credit Union By: Stephen L. Langeland (P32583) BUSINESS ADDRESS: Stephen L. Langeland, P.C. Attorney at Law 6146 W. Main St., Ste. C Kalamazoo, MI 49009 77572464 269/382-3703 Delton Rotary, St. Ambrose deliver Thanksgiving baskets Members of Delton Rotary Club and St. Ambrose Catholic Church in Delton have been partnering for 14 years to distribute baskets of groceries to area families for Thanksgiving. This year, 25 families received a whole turkey, stuffing, potatoes, cranberry relish, corn, green beans, a pumpkin pie and more for their holiday meals. Rotary members make individual donations toward the food. St. Ambrose parishioners contributed all the canned goods this year. Pictured are (from left) Shirley Kishpaugh, Mike Martin, Steve Norris, Mary Ann Rebert, Barry Bower, Dee DeFields, Dan Hills, Cora Hills, Eric Pessell, Jeff Jennette, Cheryl Bower, Jennie Osgood, Jim Alden and Junior Homister. LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF RIVERSIDE CEMETERY COMPANY OF HASTINGS, MICHIGAN A special meeting of the owners, partners, members, and stockholders of Riverside Cemetery Company of Hastings, Michigan will be held on the 7th day of December, 2012 at Three o’clock in the afternoon at 231 South Broadway, Hastings, Michigan for the purpose of authorizing the transfer of Riverside Cemetery to the City of Hastings. October 29, 2012 RIVERSIDE CEMETERY COMPANY OF HASTINGS, MICHIGAN 1003 West State Road Hastings, Michigan 49058 77572165 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Pieter L. Boer aka Pieter Boer, a married man and Michelle M. Boer aka Michelle Boer, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Birmingham Bancorp Mortgage Corporation its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated June 15, 2007, and recorded on July 17, 2007 in instrument 1183038, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fifty-Two Thousand Three Hundred Fifty-Seven and 68/100 Dollars ($152,357.68). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on December 13, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner of Section 25, Town 1 North, Range 10 West, and running thence South 00 degrees 21 minutes 32 seconds West, 1063.95 feet; thence South 87 degrees 35 minutes 50 seconds East 690.44 feet for the place of beginning of land herein after described; thence continuing South 87 degrees 35 minutes 50 seconds East, 309.56 feet; thence South 34 degrees 59 minutes 27 seconds West 324.39 feet; thence on a nontangent curve to the right with a radius of 531.16 feet; a central angle of 18 degrees 11 minutes 32 seconds, chord bearing a distance of North 55 degrees 04 minutes 11 seconds West, 59.97 feet a distance of 60 feet thence continuing on a curve to the right with a radius of 185.65 feet, a central angle of 46 degrees 37 minutes 28 seconds, chord bearing and distance North 28 degrees 31 minutes 28 seconds, West 146.94 feet, a distance of 151.07 feet; thence North 05 degrees 12 minutes 34 seconds West, 70.01 feet; thence on a curve to the right with a radius of 159.28 feet; a central angle of 16 degrees 28 minutes 14 seconds chord bearing and distance North 03 degrees 01 minutes 33 seconds East 45.65 feet, a distance of 45.79 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 15, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #364848F02 77572328 (11-15)(12-06) STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY PUBLICATION OF NOTICE OF HEARING FILE NO. 12-26242 NC In the Matter of JORDAN WAYNE MAUCHMARBOURDO. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS including: whose address(es) are unknown and whose interest in the matter may be barred or affected by the following: TAKE NOTICE: A hearing will be held on DECEMBER 5, 2012 at 2:00 P.M. at 206 W. COURT ST., 3RD FLOOR, HASTINGS, MI 49058 before Judge WIlliam M. Doherty 41960 for the following purpose: A HEARING WILL BE HELD ON THE PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME OF JORDAN WAYNE MAUCHMAR-BOURDO TO JORDAN WAYNE BOURDO. THIS CHANGE OF NAME IS NOT SOUGHT FOR FRAUDULENT INTENT. Date: 11/09/2012 JORDAN MAUCHMAR-BOURDO 7266 LINDSEY RD. PLAINWELL, MI 49080 06796175 (269) 664-6634 FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Robert Frisbie and Terry Frisbie, Husband and Wife to HouseHold Finance Corporation III, Mortgagee, dated August 14, 2007 and recorded August 22, 2007 in Instrument # 20070822-0001177 Barry County Records, Michigan on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Ninety-Six Thousand Eight Hundred SixtyOne Dollars and Seventy-Seven Cents ($296,861.77) including interest 10.189% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on December 20, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That part of the South one-half of the Northwest one-quarter, Section 23, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, Rutland Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Beginning at the center of said section; thence North 89 degrees 49 minutes 30 seconds West 400.0 feet along the South line of said Northwest one-quarter; thence North 00 degrees 00 minutes 01 seconds East 1310.04 feet; thence South 89 degrees 37 minutes 30 seconds East 400.0 feet along the North line of said South onehalf, Northwest one-quarter ; thence South 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West 1308.64 feet along the East line of said Northwest one-quarter to the Place of beginning. Subject to highway right of way for Yeckly Road. Commonly known as 2520 Yeckley Road, Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 11/22/2012 HouseHold Finance Corporation III Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File 06795984 No: 12-71233 (11-22)(12-13) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 22, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Trust Estate of Rebbecca Rae Reed. Date of birth: June 14, 1947. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Rebecca Rae Reed died September 18, 2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the decedent, trust and trustee will be forever barred unless presented to the Trustee of the Living Trust of Rebbecca Rae Reed dated November 30, 1998, as amended within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: November 1, 2012 Vandervoort, Christ & Fisher, P.C. David P. Lucas P34466 70 W. Michigan Ave., Suite 450 Battle Creek, MI 49017 269-965-7000 Trustee: Lory Ann Biermacher 5220 N. M-37 Highway 77572612 Middleville, MI 49333 SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by ERIC W. BEADLE and JODI S. BEADLE, HUSBAND AND WIFE, to MORTGAGE PLUS OF AMERICA CORPORATION, Mortgagee, dated September 25, 2002, and recorded on October 8, 2002, in Document No. 1088998, and assigned by said mortgagee to U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Four Thousand Four Hundred Twenty-Four Dollars and Forty-Nine Cents ($124,424.49), including interest at 6.250% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on November 29, 2012 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: COMMENCING AT THE WEST 1 / 4 POST OF SECTION 28, TOWN 1 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST, THENCE WEST 107.00 FEET TO THE CENTERLINE OF BANFIELD ROAD; THENCE SOUTH 28 DEGREES 00 MINUTES EAST ALONG SAID CENTERLINE 1414.00 FEET TO THE TRUE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE SOUTH 28 DEGREES 00 MINUTES EAST, ALONG SAID CENTERLINE OF BANFIELD ROAD, 500.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 62 DEGREES 00 MINUTES EAST 383.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 28 DEGREES 00 MINUTES WEST 500.00 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 62 DEGREES 00 MINUTES WEST 383.00 FEET TO THE TRUE PLACE OF BEGINNING. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 77572245 USB.002825 FHA (11-01)(11-22) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Donald J. Daldos and Janice M. Daldos, husband and wife as joint tenants, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated November 10, 2004, and recorded on November 23, 2004 in instrument 1137660, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Seven Thousand Five Hundred Sixty-Four and 35/100 Dollars ($137,564.35). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on December 20, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Baltimore, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel B: That part of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 14, Town 2 North, Range 8 West, described as: Commencing at the East 1/4 corner of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West 659.50 feet along the East line of said Southeast 1/4 to the place of beginning; thence South 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West 329.75 feet; thence South 89 degrees 41 minutes 11 seconds West 1306.24 feet; thence North 00 degrees 18 minutes 32 seconds East 329.92 feet along the West line of the Northeast 1/4 of said Southeast 1/4; thence North 89 degrees 41 minutes 36 seconds East 1304.76 feet to the place of beginning. Subject to highway rights of way for Charlton Park Road The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 22, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #413865F01 77572509 (11-22)(12-13) Synopsis HOPE TOWNSHIP Regular Board Meeting Nov. 12, 2012 5 Board members present. 4 guests. Regular meeting opened at 7 p.m. Approved: Agenda Previous Minutes Standing Reports Bills Appointed D. Jackson to Library Board Weed Treatment programs for Wall Lake & Guernsey Lake Ordinance #80 Sign Ordinance Signing of Quit Claim deeds for paid off Cloverdale Park Property Expenses for MTA Conferences & Workshops Adjourned at 7:36 p.m. Submitted by: Deborah Jackson, Clerk Attested to by 77572503 Patricia Albert, Supervisor FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Kevin P. Purgiel, a married man and Nacole Purgiel, his wife to Fifth Third Bank (Western Michigan), Mortgagee, dated March 17, 2008 and recorded April 7, 2008 in Instrument # 20080407-0003797 Barry County Records, Michigan on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighteen Thousand Eighty-Five Dollars and FortySix Cents ($18,085.46) including interest 13.12% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on December 20, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot Number 1 and the West 52 feet of Lot Number 2 of the Aben Johnson's Addition Number 1 of the City of Hastings. Commonly known as 407 E Lincoln St., Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 12 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Fifth Third Bank, an Ohio Banking Corporation, as successor by merger to Fifth Third Bank, a Michigan Banking Corporation f/k/a Dated: 11/22/2012 Fifth Third Bank (Western Michigan) Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File 06795990 No: 12-71211 (11-22)(12-13) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Sequoyah Stuk a married woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for Amerifirst Financial Corporation its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated May 19, 2011, and recorded on May 27, 2011 in instrument 201105270005466, in Barry county records, Michigan, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty-Seven Thousand Seven Hundred Thirty-Seven and 46/100 Dollars ($87,737.46). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on November 29, 2012. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A Parcel Of Land In The North 1/2 Of The Northeast 1/4 Of Section 12, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, Which Commences At The Southeast Corner Thereof; Thence North 26 2/3 Rods For a Place Of Beginning; Thence North 220 Feet; Thence West 198 Feet; Thence South 220 Feet; Thence East 198 Feet To The Place Of Beginning, Hastings Township, Barry County, Michigan. Also: A Parcel Of Land In The North 1/2 Of The Northeast 1/4 Described As Beginning At A Point On The East Line Of Section 12, 24 Rods North Of The North 1/8 Line; Thence North 2 2/3 Rods On Said East Line Of Section 12; Thence West 12 Rods; Thence South 2 2/3 Rods; Thence East 12 Rods To Place Of Beginning, Hastings Township, Barry County, Michigan. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 1, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #413723F01 77572044 (11-01)(11-22) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Lena Thunder Aleman, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Charter One Bank, N.A., Mortgagee, dated May 5, 2005, and recorded on May 16, 2005 in instrument 1146513, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Four Thousand One Hundred Eighty-Eight and 19/100 Dollars ($124,188.19). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on December 20, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Assyria, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel in the Northeast one quarter of Section 34, Town 1 North, Range 7 West described as: Commencing at the Southwest corner of the West one half of the East one half of the Northeast one quarter of said Section 34; thence East 440 feet 5 inches for place of beginning; thence North 495 feet 5 inches; thence East 219 feet 7 inches; thence South 495 feet 5 inches; thence West to place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 22, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #410702F01 77572521 (11-22)(12-13) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Joseph A Lively, a married man and Laura Lively, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registrations Systems, Inc., as nominee for Centennial Mortgage and Funding, Inc. its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated December 14, 2007, and recorded on December 20, 2007 in instrument 20071220-0005400, and modified by Affidavit or Order recorded on June 27, 2012 in instrument 2012-001648, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ninety-Four Thousand Four Hundred Sixty-Five and 36/100 Dollars ($194,465.36). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on November 29, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel 1: A parcel of land in the Southeast 1/4 of Section 18, Town 1 North, Range 9 West, described as: beginning at a point on the East and West 1/4 Line of said Section 18, which lies 1955 feet due West of the East 1/4 post of said Section 18, Thence South 225 feet; thence West 175 feet; thence North 225 feet; thence East 175 feet to the place of beginning. Parcel 2: Commencing at a point on the East and West 1/4 line of Section 18, Town 1 North, Range 9 West, which lies 1825 feet West of the East 1/4 post of said Section 18; thence South at right angels to said East and West 1/4 line 225 feet; thence West parallel with said East and West 1/4 line 130 feet; thence North 225 feet to said East and West 1/4; thence East 130 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 1, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #379217F02 (11-01)(11-22) 77572109 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by David T. Gross and April I. Gross, as husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to SBC Mortgage, LLC, Mortgagee, dated December 10, 2001, and recorded on January 9, 2002 in instrument 1072786, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Chemical Bank f/k/a Chemical Bank and Trust Company as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Nine Thousand Nine Hundred Eighty-Five and 73/100 Dollars ($69,985.73). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on December 13, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Beginning at the Southeast corner of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 16, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, thence West 206.25 feet, thence North 206.25 feet, thence East 206.25 feet, thence South 206.25 feet to beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 15, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #404590F04 77572451 (11-15)(12-06) IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT 248-5021502. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Adam Howe and Holly Howe, husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns., Mortgagee, dated December 18, 2008 and recorded January 8, 2009 in Instrument Number 20090108-0000184, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Wells Fargo Bank, NA by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Nine Thousand Three Hundred Fifty-Five and 11/100 Dollars ($129,355.11) including interest at 6.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 12/13/2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Legal description: Township of Rutland, County of Barry, Michigan Beginning at a point on the East Section 11, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, distant South 00 degrees 18 minutes 52 seconds West 1906.22 feet from the Northeast corner of said Section 11; thence South 00 degrees 18 minutes 52 seconds West 478.22 feet along said East line to the centerline of West State Road; thence North 74 degrees 54 minutes 04 seconds West 104.71 feet along said centerline; thence continuing Northwesterly 330.11 feet along said centerline and the arc of a curve to the right, the radius of which is 764.48 feet and the chord of which bears North 62 feet 31 minutes 51 seconds West 327.55 feet; thence continuing along said centerline North 50 degrees 09 minutes 37 seconds West 184.50 feet to the East line of Hillcrest Road as shown on the Plat of Buenavista Heights as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats, Page 108; thence North 39 degrees 44 minutes 16 seconds East 104.16 feet (recorded as 71.13 feet) along said East line of Hillcrest Road; thence South 68 degrees 30 minutes 40 seconds East 75.00 feet; thence North 22 degrees 14 minutes 09 seconds East 3.93 feet; thence South 64 degrees 35 minutes 56 seconds East 44.67 feet; 52 degrees 24 minutes 41 seconds East 46.64 feet; thence North 35 degrees 20 minutes 00 seconds East 24.09 feet; thence South 58 degrees 26 minutes 57 seconds East 7.71 feet; thence North 32 degrees 40 minutes 03 seconds East 120.08 feet; thence North 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East 235.77 feet to the point of beginning. Subject to an easement for public highway purposes over the Southwesterly 33 feet thereof for West State Road. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: November 15, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 326.9994 (11-15)(12-06) 77572492 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Robin Clemens and Timothy J. Clemens, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Beneficial Michigan Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 7, 2005, and recorded on January 10, 2005 in instrument 1139992, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fourteen Thousand Two Hundred Three and 85/100 Dollars ($114,203.85). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on December 13, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 9 and Lot 10, Block 12 of Daniel Striker's Addition except the West 1/2 of Lot 9, according to the recorded Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats of Page 11. Subject to easements, building and use restrictions of record. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 15, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #413940F01 77572434 (11-15)(12-06) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by James W. Warner Jr, a/k/a Jim Warner a single man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated March 12, 2008, and recorded on March 20, 2008 in instrument 20080320-003150, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Nine Thousand Two Hundred SixtyTwo and 58/100 Dollars ($99,262.58). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on December 13, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Beginning At A Point On The EastWest Line Of Section 18, Town 2 North, Range 10 West, Orangeville Township, Barry County, Michigan; Distant North 89 Degrees 59 Minutes East 907.74 Feet From The West 1/4 Post Of Said Section 18; Thence Continuing North 89 Degrees 59 Minutes East Along Said 1/4 Line 239.22 Feet; Thence South 00 Degree 47 Minutes 10 Seconds East 160.00 Feet To The East Line Of The West Fractional 1/2 Of The Southwest 14 Of Said Section 18: Thence South 89 Degrees 59 Minutes West 140.00 Feet; Thence South 00 Degrees 47 Minutes 10 Seconds East 30.00 Feet; Thence South 89 Degrees 59 Minutes West 125.00 Feet: Thence North 00 Degrees 47 Minutes 10 Seconds West 89.68 Feet; Thence North 89 Degrees 59 Minutes East 25.78 Feet; Thence North 00 Degrees 47 Minutes 10 Seconds West 100.32 Feet To The Place Of Beginning. Subject To Easement For Public Highway Purposes Over The Northerly 33 Feet Thereof For Saddler Road And The Easterly 33 Feet Thereof For Dennison Road. Beginning At A Point On East-West 1/4 Line, Section 18, Town 2 North, Range 10 West Distant North 89 Degrees 59 Minutes 00 Seconds East 660.00' From The West 1/4 Post Said Section 18, Thence Continuing North 89 Degrees 59 Minutes 00 Seconds East Along Said 1/4 Line 486.96, Thence South 00 Degrees 47 Minutes 10 Seconds East 238.46', Thence North 89 Degrees 59 Minutes 47 Seconds West 165.00, Thence North 00 Degrees 47 Minutes 10 Seconds West 16.03, Thence North 89 Degrees 59 Minutes 47 Seconds West 323.41, Thence North 00 Degrees 24 Minutes 48 Seconds West 222.24' To Point Of Beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 15, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #414615F01 77572322 (11-15)(12-06) �Page 12 — Thursday, November 22, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Central Elementary School’s Young Citizens for November are Josh Brown and Emma Vann, pictured with teacher Jill Smith. Hastings Middle School Young Citizens for November, joined by assistant principal Teresa Heide, are (from left) Chyanne Rea, Claire Anderson, Cassidy Morgan and Dakota Lumbert. Hastings Exchange Club announces November Young Citizens St. Rose sixth grader Arthur Kensington, named his school’s Young Citizen for the month of November, is joined by teacher Amy Murphy. Named Young Citizens for November at Star Elementary School are Ireland Barber (left) and Erin Dalman, joined here by teacher Tammy Nemetz. LARGE or small, We Ship It All! Next Time, Ship Your Luggage! We make it simple, convenient & stress-free. Hannah Johnson and Jon Arnold are Northeastern’s Young Citizens for November. They are joined by teacher Alisa Willard. 1351 N.Broadway (M-43) Hastings 269.945.9105 OPEN MON.-FRI. 8:30 - 5:30 Drayven Hall, pictured here with teacher Dan Benningfield, is the Young Citizen for November at Southeastern Elementary School. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 22, 2012 — Page 13 Woman charged with animal cruelty is sheriff’s special advisor by David DeDecker Staff Writer Marcia Tepper of Middleville, the center of an alleged animal cruelty case, was released over the weekend on a $100 bond, according to Barry County District Court records. Tepper had a warrant out for her arrest and turned herself in to authorities. She has 10 days to arrange an appearance for arraignment on a charge of animal cruelty. Her alleged involvement in the animal cruelty charges came to light in April of this year when her home was sold following a foreclosure. When the new owner arrived to take possession of the house in mid-October, he found the floors covered in dog feces, and dead animals on the premises. The new owner said he will have to demolish the 10-year-old house because the damage to the interior is so extensive. Tepper is a special deputy advisor to Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf and for the City of Hastings. A November 2010 oath of office signed by both Tepper and Leaf stipulate her “commission is valid only when the abovenamed officer is temporarily engaged in the performance of duties as a member of [Barry County] Animal Control and under the direction of the sheriff or his duly authorized representative.” A second oath of office taken by Tepper stated she will “faithfully discharge the duties of the Office of Animal Control Shelter Board.” Sheriff Leaf said in a telephone interview Tuesday that Tepper came highly recommended for her work with animals in Ionia County and for reducing the euthanizing rate in that county. “We don’t know if she was euthanizing dogs at her house,” said Leaf. “We are still investigating, and the dead animals have been sent to a lab at MSU.” Also Tuesday, during its committee of the whole meeting, the Barry County Board of Commissioners, at the request of the Barry County Animal Shelter Advisory Board, approved a motion to recommend and request that the Michigan State Police take over investigation of the Tepper case. The motion was passed by a 6-2 vote, with commissioners Dan Parker and Howard Gibson dissenting. Shelter Advisory board chair Kathy Wiggins said her board was making the recommendation due to the conflict of interest created by Leaf’s appointment of Tepper. Commissioner Robert Houtman, who also holds a seat on the advisory board, said that besides the conflict of interest mentioned by Wiggins, the county board members also needed to be concerned whether animals from the Barry County shelter were among those that were abused or neglected and whether controlled substances from the Barry County facility were used to euthanize the animals. Gibson, said he was voting against the motion because he trusts the sheriff’s department. Parker said he didn’t want to give the impression that the commissioners did not trust the sheriff’s department. Retired sheriff’s deputy and current commissioner Don Nevins said that it was not a matter of trust. “I got nothing against the sheriff’s department. They got good investigators down there,” he said. “[But,] by the sheriff making that appointment, he could be involved in that investigation, too, or interviewed. I think it would be a good idea that the Michigan State POLICE BEAT BEA Soldier returns home to learn he was robbed Hastings Police spoke with a resident in the 600 block of East Bond Street and Nov. 13 were told that when he returned from Afghanistan, he noticed two rifles missing from his house. The rifles, a Smith and Wesson M&P 15, along with 1,000 rounds of ammunition, and a Century Arms sporter .308, were valued at $2,300. The weapons likely were taken between September and November. There was no sign of forced entry. Resident in the wrong place, wrong time Hastings Police went to a home in the 200 block of South Hanover Street Nov. 16 on a tip that a 31-year-old Hastings man wanted on a warrant was currently at the home. Police confirmed the felony warrant for possession of dangerous drugs and found the man at the address. He was taken into custody without incident. During the arrest, police reported smelling a strong odor of marijuana in the house. They asked another resident, a 19-year-old Hastings man, if he had been smoking marijuana. He told police he had not recently smoked marijuana. Officers found two small baggies of marijuana in the man’s front pocket and two pills identified as Zoloft and Alprazolam. Both men were arrested and taken to Barry County Jail. Husband unknowingly finances plane ticket A Shelbyville woman went to the Barry County Sheriff’s Department Nov. 5 to report credit card fraud. She said someone had used her husband’s credit card to purchase an $823 ticket from Lufthansa Airlines. The purchase was made Nov. 4 around 11:22 a.m., but it is unknown where the card number was used. She told deputies the card issuer had requested a police report. The bank, Wells Fargo, is investigating the theft. Gun-toting girlfriend scares off robber Barry County Deputies were contacted Oct. 31 by a Dowling man who said his girlfriend has seen someone stealing copper pipe from his Hutchinson Road home. The woman scared the thief off when she displayed a gun. The man said he had about 70 pounds of old copper piping piled in the yard just north of his house. The woman said she was in her sewing room when she thought she heard a knock on the door. She saw an old car in the driveway that she did not recognize, so she grabbed her rifle and cell phone before she went outside. Reportedly a man was putting the copper pipe in his back seat. The woman told deputies the 20-something man saw her and put up his hands when he saw the gun. He then got into his car, an older model maroon four-door, and drove away heading south. The copper is valued at $1,000. Photographs were taken of the tire tracks. The case is closed. DNA may lead to break-in at Delton restaurant Bowen’s Family Restaurant in Delton reported a breaking and entering Nov. 9. The owner told deputies the security light bulb had been unscrewed and the rear entry glass door was broken. He said the suspect took approximately $1,171 from the cash register. Reportedly, nothing else was taken. No fingerprints were found. There was a partially frozen wad of saliva near the broken back door and a sample was collected for possible DNA testing. Deputies interviewed employees. The case is closed pending leads. Man insists car is in the driveway The Johnstown Fire Department reported a vehicle in the ditch Nov. 11 near the intersection of Hickory Road and Mann Road. When deputies arrived, the driver of the blue Toyota was gone, along with the keys, and the windows were down. Deputies found a jar of suspected marijuana on the car’s floorboard, two glass smoking pipes and a tin of unidentified pills. They also found an envelope with a Hickory Corners address. During the investigation, two hunters stopped to say they had given an allegedly drunk person a ride to a house in Hickory Corners. After the vehicle was impounded, deputies went to the house where the man had been dropped off — the same address that was on the envelope. Deputies found the owner of the vehicle at the house. Reportedly, the 31-year-old Kalamazoo man was intoxicated. The man denied driving his car into a ditch and insisted it was in his driveway. He was placed under arrest for failure to report an accident and for possession of marijuana. Deputies later cited the man for reckless driving. His blood alcohol level test registered .118 percent. Further investigation revealed the man was wanted on two warrants out of Coldwater, but it was outside of the pick-up radius for the warrant. The case was turned over to the prosecutor’s office. Police take over the investigation because the lady was employed by Ionia County, or was a volunteer there, too. I would think the sheriff’s department would feel a lot better having that taken out of their hands.” Leaf said the Barry County Board of Commissioners does not have the authority to have the Michigan State Police take over the investigation of Tepper. “Our investigation is not a conflict of interest,” said Leaf. Reportedly, Tepper was struggling financially and allegedly euthanizing dogs at her home. The new owner said he found bags full of dead dogs on the property. If Tepper does not arrange for a court appearance within the prescribed 10 days, a second warrant will be issued for her arrest. (Sandra Ponsetto, staff writer, contributed to this story.) Suspect who runs from car and law is stopped by dog Nashville Police officers received a report shortly after 9 a.m. Friday, Nov. 16, that a local woman had been accosted by a man in the downtown business area of Nashville. The woman told Nashville Police Chief Jerry Schray that an unknown man had assaulted her and stolen the prescription drugs she had just filled at a local pharmacy. Schray searched the area and sent out a broadcast for the suspect, based on the woman’s description. Around 10:20 a.m. Hastings Police officers spotted white pickup truck matching the general description of the vehicle, which it stopped at the intersection of Woodlawn and Michigan avenues. As the truck slowed, a male passenger fled the scene, running south. Over the next 20 minutes, with the assistance of eye witnesses, Hastings Police, Michigan State Police and Barry County Sheriff’s Deputies pursued the suspect. A state police service dog also was called in, and the suspect was tracked to a garage several blocks away. As the dog neared the garage, the suspect fled, and the dog was released. The dog quickly reached the suspect, stopped him and remained with the suspect until pursuing officers intervened. The suspect was taken to Pennock Hospital for evaluation and then taken to jail. Hastings residence searched twice for suspected methamphetamine lab Following a raid on a Hastings home last month after reports of methamphetamine production, troopers from the Wayland Post/Hastings office had to return to the home again Nov. 10 because of reported continued meth production by a 33-year-old Hastings man. The original raid occurred Oct. 21 when troopers executed a search warrant at 530 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings, and seized many items used in the production of meth, as well as old reactions and finished product. Charges are pending as a result of the Oct. 21 raid. When troopers returned to the residence Saturday, they conducted a consent search of the residence to locate evidence of continuing meth production. As a result of the most recent investigation, the Hastings man was taken into custody on charges of operating or maintaining a meth lab, operating or maintaining a meth lab within 300 feet of a dwelling, possession of methamphetamine and possession of a schedule II controlled substance. BOWLING SCORES Sunday Night Mixed Comebacks 29; Street Bowlers 22; H2O 21; You’re Up N Shit 20; Straightliners 20; Sunday Snoozers 19; Heath Gang 14. Women’s good games and series - K. Becker 218-563; J. Rice 191; A. Hubbell 171; F. Ames 158; J. Shoebridge 137. Men’s good games and series - C. Santana 201-554; J. Craven 206-549; B. Hubbell 212; T. Santana 211; R. Snyder 187; B. Allen 185. Tuesday Mixed Hurless Machine 28; Hometown Lumber 28; Boyce Milk Haulers 27; Barry Co. Red Cross 26.5; J-Bar Antique Tractors 21. High Game - R. Gross 158; D. Benner 212; M. Burd 185; D. Blakely 211. High Series - M. Burd 443; R. Gross 437; D. Blakely 556. Monday Mixerettes Dewey’s Auto Body 34-10; Dean’s Dolls 29-15; Kent Oil 28.5-15.5; Creekside Growers 19.5-24.5; Nashville Chiropractic 19-25. Good Games & Series: N. Goggins 162429; P. Shellington 143-364; B. Anders 162; D. Anders 169; N. Potter 154-417; E. Ulrich 185-467; J. Rice 167-475. Senior Citizens Sun Risers 31.5-12.5; Butterfingers 26-18; M&M’s 25-19; King Pins 24-20; Usedtobe #1 23-21; Three Gals and A Guy 21-23; Just Having Fun 18.5-25.5; Kuempel 18-26; Ward’s Friends 18-26; Early Risers 15-29. Women’s good games and series: A. Tasker 138; Y. Markley 153-410; R. Murphy 164; B. Maker 180-454; N. Frost 183-459; C. Stuart 159. Men’s good games and series: G. Waggoner 167; B. Akers 192-545; D. Dimmers 200-475; R. Boniface 194-542; C. Purdum Sr. 206-517; D. Murphy 171; G. Bennett 166-422; K. Schantz 173; L. Brandt 179-509; W. Mallekoote 162; R. Walker 180459; D. Kiersey 186-533; M. Saldivar 179527; R. McDonald 231. Wed PM Court Side 32-12; Boniface Construction 28-16; Hair Care 28-16; Eye & ENT 25-19; Delton Suds 18-26. Good games & series: J. Pettengill 124349; B. Norris 124; A. Tasker 145-369; Y. Cheeseman 170-443; M. Adams 146; K. Moore 136-339. COURT NEWS Leroy Hill, 31, of Hastings was sentenced in Barry County Circuit Court Nov. 14 for failure to register as a sex offender and habitual offender, second conviction. Judge Amy McDowell ordered Hill to serve 12 months in jail, with credit for 42 days served. Hill must pay $448 in court assessments and serve 36 months on probation. A charge of habitual offender, fourth offense, was dropped. Christina Faye Segur, 43, of Hastings was sentenced Nov. 14 in Barry County Circuit Court for aggravated assault and being a habitual offender, third conviction. Judge Amy McDowell ordered Segur to serve 30 to 48 months in prison. Segur must pay $198 in court assessments. A charge of felonious assault with a dangerous weapon was dropped. Aaron Michael Roush, 35, of Delton was sentenced in Barry County Circuit Court Nov. 14 for larceny of a building. Judge Amy McDowell ordered Roush to serve 10 months in jail, with credit for 135 days served. Roush must pay $798 in court assessments. A second charge of building larceny and a breaking and entering charge were dropped. Heather Brooke Jacobs, 38, of Hastings was sentenced Nov. 14 in Barry County Circuit Court for operating under the influence of liquor, third offense. Judge Amy McDowell ordered Jacobs to serve 30 days in jail and 36 months on probation. Jacobs must pay $1,948 in court assessments. She must also complete drug court, cognitive behavior therapy and substance abuse testing. A charge of operating while intoxicated was dropped. GET MORE NEWS! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 Help Wanted Garage Sale For Rent DRIVERS: CDL A Dedicated Lanes Company Drivers & Owner Operators. Team & Singles. $1,000 Sign-On Bonus for O/O. Fuel Discount. Safety Bonus Program. Excellent Fuel Surcharge. Open Board Drivers 40 CPM. 6 months verifiable exp. Call 800-599-0087. INDOOR MOVING SALE: Friday & Saturday, Nov. 23rd,24th 8am-? Tools, furniture, household, fishing boat/motor, Troybilt Roto tiller, 10X10 vinyl shed on skids. Everything goes. Corner of M-37 & Airport Rd., Hastings. WALL LAKE, DELTON: 2 bedroom apartment. References & deposit. No pets, 269-623-8218. For Sale 100% WOOD HEAT- No worries. Keep your families safe & warm with a Classic Outdoor Wood Furnace from Central Boiler. Call SOS your “Stocking Dealer” Dutton, MI (616)554-8669 or (616)915-5061. AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 National Ads THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is deceptive, fraudulent or might otherwise violate law or accepted standards of taste. However, this publication does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the quality of goods or services advertised. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made in any advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you ask for money in advance of delivery of goods or services advertised. Business Services BASEMENT WATERPROOFING: PROFESSIONAL BASEMENT SERVICES waterproofing, crack Estate Sale repair, mold remediation. ESTATE/MOVING SALES: Local/licensed. Free estiby Bethel Timmer - The Cot- mates. (517)290-5556. tage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)901Recreation 9898. WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are inReal Estate terested in leasing acreage HASTINGS GREAT ACRE- for this years deer season. AGE 70 rolling, wooded Call (269)795-3049 w/stream. Private location to build custom home or cabin. Priced to sell!!! $280,000. Call Bill Sikkema 269-488-0576, Prudential Preferred Realtors. PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 �Page 14 — Thursday, November 22, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Vikes’ first district title highlight of soccer season by Brett Bremer Sports Editor There were highs and lows for the local varsity boys’ soccer teams this fall. Hastings did well in the new OK Gold Conference, but injuries hurt the team a bit. Thornapple Kellogg battled as best it could with an inexperienced squad. Delton Kellogg had a young team, and Maple Valley was getting its feet wet in new head coach Andy Roush’s program. The highlight of the season came at the end of the season, when Lakewood’s varsity boys’ soccer team earned its first ever district championship by knocking off Stockbridge 2-0 in the Division 3 District Championship at Fuller Street Field in Nashville. Lakewood had three players named honorable mention all-state in Division 3 for their efforts this year, and all three are among the honorees on the 2012 All-Barry County first and second teams. Boys’ Soccer First Team Ian Beck, Hastings: A three-year varsity player and a team captain this fall, Beck was named his team’s MVP after scoring 13 goals and recording 3 assists. Head coach Ben Conklin called Beck a team leader, who carried the team when injuries beset the Saxons late in the year. Maxwell Clark, Hastings: A four-year varsity player, Clark finished off his senior campaign with 10 goals and 2 assists. Coach Conklin said that Clark was a leader both on and off the field each season on the varsity. Drew Durkee, Lakewood: A junior forward/midfielder, Durkee was second on his team in goals this fall with 11. Durkee also had five assists on the year. Dylan Durkee, Lakewood: Durkee set a new school record for assists this season at Lakewood with 18, and also added 9 goals for the Vikings. A senior midfielder, Durkee was named honorable mention all-state in Division 3. Lucas Hansen, Delton Kellogg: A sophomore forward for Delton in his second year on the varsity, he earned all-district and honorable mention all-KVA this fall. Hansen was the Panthers’ leading scorer with 13 goals in his first year at forward. He played in the midfield as a freshman. Eric Jachim, Thornapple Kellogg: A team captain for the Trojans and an all-conference and all-district performer. Jachim scored 4 goals and had 3 assists in the midfield this year for the Trojan team. Ben Kolanowski, Hastings: A senior outside midfielder, Kolanowski scored 2 goals and had 4 assists this season. Coach Conklin said that Kolanowski’s impact on the field was much greater than those numbers showed. Travis Matthews, Hastings: The Saxons’ senior goalkeeper, Matthews saved 75 percent of the shots that came his way. Matthews and his defense recorded six shut outs this season, and averaged allowing 1.76 goals per game. Michael Redman, Thornapple Kellogg: Redman scored 3 goals and had 1 assist play- ing in the midfield and on defense for the Trojans as a senior this fall. Redman was named all-conference and alldistrict. Tanner Roderick, Hastings: A three-year varsity player, Roderick manned the center of the midfield for the Saxons. He scored nine goals this fall, and had seven assists. Coach Conklin said that Roderick “controlled the pace of the game for us very well.” Daniel Sauers, Lakewood: As a junior, Sauers was the leader in the center of the Lakewood defense. He was one of three Vikings named honorable mention all-state in Division 3 this season. Zach Young, Delton Kellogg: Delton Kellogg’s senior leader in the center of the midfield. Young was a four-year varsity starter, who had 1 goal and 3 assists. Young was a team captain for the second year in a row, and was voted the Panthers’ MVP by his teammates after an all-KVA and all-district effort. Boys’ Soccer Second Team Brett Bauman, Thornapple Kellogg: A senior defender and team captain for the Trojans, he did manage one assist despite playing on the other end of the field. Bauman was named honorable mention allconference in the OK Gold. Alex Cherry, Hastings: A center defender/midfielder who played a big role in the Saxons allowing less than two goals per game in his senior season. Cherry, at 6-4, played a big role in trying to limit scoring attempts on opponent’s set plays. Joe Eddy, Maple Valley: A junior captain for the Lions, Eddy scored seven goals and had one assist this year while earning all-district and honorable mention all-KVA. “Joe is everything you want from your striker position,” said Maple Valley head coach Andy Roush. “Arguably one of the fastest players in the area, Joe blends well with his teammates to find space and link up on scoring opportunities.” Brady Forman, Lakewood: The Vikings junior goalkeeper, he not only keep the ball out of the net but helped organize the defense in front of him. Forman was named all-state honorable mention in Division 3 after helping the Lakewood boys to their first ever district championship. Jacob Huyser, Thornapple Kellogg: A senior, team captain who played in the midfield and on defense for TK. Huyser scored 1 goal and had 4 assists this year, while earning all-district honors. John James, Hastings: A senior in the center of the midfield and the defense for the Saxons. Coach Conklin said that James “helped keep our team defense very strong this season.” Cole Mabie, Delton Kellogg: A sophomore center midfielder in his second year as a varsity starter, Mabie had a team-high 8 assists as well as 2 goals this fall. Mabie also earned all-district honors this season, and was an all-conference performer in the KVA. Kalib McKinney, Lakewood: Someone had to step up for the Vikings who lost their leading goal-scorer to graduation last spring, and that someone was McKinney. He led his team with 15 goals this year as it won its first ever district championship. Cody Newton, Hastings: A senior who made his mark on the outside of the Saxon defense. “He contributed many minutes this season, and helped bolster our defensive unit,” said coach Conklin. Joshua Sanchez, Maple Valley: A junior captain who came on strong for the Lions as the season progressed. “Joshua’s greatest attribute is his passing,” said coach Roush. “He is an excellent defender, who is superb at reclaiming the ball then transitioning it through the midfield into attack.” Joey Siska, Hastings: The Saxons’ top defender in the middle had a great senior season before injuries slowed him down. Coach Conklin said that Siska led his team from the back for the majority of the year. Robbie Welch, Maple Valley: A senior defender for the Lions who earned all-district and honorable mention all-conference in the KVA this season, while scoring three goals as well. “Robbie has a great understanding of the game, and led our team by example both on and off the pitch on numerous occasions throughout this year’s campaign,” said coach Roush. Local gridders took on some of state’s best this fall by Brett Bremer Sports Editor There are always tough match-ups throughout the fall. That held true in the Kalamazoo Valley Association, the Capital Area Activities Conference White Division and the OK Gold, the three varsity football conferences which have Barry County representation. All three leagues have a team playing in the state finals this weekend. Portland, from the CAAC-White, will take on West Catholic in the Division 5 State Championship Saturday at Ford Field at 7:30 p.m. South Christian from the OK Gold faces Detroit Country Day in the Division 4 State Championship at 7:30 p.m. Friday. Also Friday, Constantine from the KVA takes on Ithaca at 4:30 in the Division 6 State Championship. The local varsity football players gave their all against those state finalists, and on eight other Friday nights throughout the course of the regular season. Hastings was the lone varsity football team from Barry County to earn a spot in the state playoffs, falling in a Pre-District contest to Plainwell after a 6-3 regular season. The Saxons had the only local team with a winning record, but that didn’t mean there weren’t fine performances from guys across the county. Here are the 2012 All-Barry County Football First and Second Teams. Football First Team Offense Quarterback Grant Allison, Thornapple Kellogg: A senior leader for the Trojans, Allison completed 38 passes for 525 yards and three touchdowns. Allison also rushed the ball 67 times for 314 yards and three touchdowns. He had a long run on the season of 46 yards and a long pass completion of 49. Running Backs Garrett Miller, Maple Valley: The number two runner on the Lion team this fall, he ran the ball 89 times for 530 yards, scoring four touchdowns and running in two twopoint conversion attempts as well. On the defensive side, Miller played his third year as a starter in the Lions’ defensive backfield. He had 36 tackles and three passes defended. He was named honorable mention all-conference in the KVA. Cole Ritchie, Delton Kellogg: A senior leader for the Panthers, Ritchie carried the load on offense. He rushed the ball 128 times for 552 yards, averaging 4.3 yards per carry. Stephen Shaffer, Hastings: A junior who’s a two-year starter at running back for the Saxons. He led the county in rushing with 204 carries for 1,200 yards. He scored 15 touchdowns this year. At linebacker, Shaffer recorded 15 tackles, including four for a loss and forced one fumble. Ends Michael Eastman, Hastings: A great blocking tight end who also had five receptions for 144 yards and a touchdown. He was an all-conference linebacker in the OK Gold as well. He tied for the Saxon team lead with 48 tackles, and also had one sack, one fumble recovery and two pass deflections. Garret Mater, Maple Valley: Mater did a little bit of everything for the Lions. He played tight end, where he caught two passes for 18 yards. On defense Mater played linebacker and safety this season, finishing with 51 tackles, including four for a loss. He had five passes defended and caused a huge fumble in the Lions’ homecoming victory. Receiver Tyler Rush, Lakewood: Rush, a senior, hauled in 14 passes for 291 yards and three touchdowns during the course of the season. He was named an all-league punter in the Capital Area Activities Conference White Division, averaging 34.9 yards per kick and landing six of his kicks inside the opponents’ 20-yard line. Offensive Line Dayton Ashley, Maple Valley: A senior tackle, Ashley showed tremendous improvement in his second season starting for the varsity. He was voted the team’s most valuable lineman by his teammates, and head coach Brian Lincoln said “when we needed a yard or two we went to the left behind Dayton.” Eric Hart, Hastings: “One of the best football players we’ve had,” said Hastings head coach Fred Rademacher. Hart finished off an outstanding senior season by earning all-conference honors in the O-K Gold. At linebacker he added 35 tackles, including six for a loss and two sacks. He forced one fumble. Lars Pyrzinski, Lakewood: The Vikings’ strong-man on the line for Lakewood, he earned all-conference honorable mention in the CAAC-White as a senior. On the other side of the ball, at linebacker, Pyrzinski recorded 64 tackles including two sacks. He also recovered a fumble. He was named all-conference on that side of the ball. Jake Swartz, Hastings: Another senior who was a first team all-conference performer up front for the Saxons. Swartz had 15 tackles on defense too, including two for a loss and intercepted two passes. Dakota Warren, Delton Kellogg: A senior tackle on both sides of the ball. He was a three-year starter at center on offense before moving to tackle due to an injury. Warren led the Delton Kellogg defensive linemen with 12 tackles, including four for a loss. Kicker Aaron Ordway, Thornapple Kellogg: A senior, Ordway hit six field goals on eight attempts and averaged 32 yards per punt as well. He had a long punt of 67 yards. Ordway was also one of his team’s top offensive threats, rushing the ball 36 times for 283 yards and a touchdown. He averaged 23.2 yards per kick-off return as well. Football Second Team Offense Running Backs Dan Dykstra, Thornapple Kellogg: The power back in the Trojan offense, Dykstra led his team with 79 rushes for 422 yards and four touchdowns. Dykstra, a senior, also hauled in three passes for 41 yards during the course of the year. Jon French, Hastings: A senior, French rushed 92 times this year for 436 yards and six touchdowns. He was third on the Saxon team with 12 broken tackles and caught three passes for 96 yards and another score. At defensive back, French recorded 33 tackles, including three for a loss, and had two sacks, a forced fumble and an interception. Jason Slaughter, Hastings: The number two rusher for the Saxons as a sophomore, Slaughter carried the ball 72 times for 491 yards. He had his team’s top yards per carry of any back with more than ten rushes. Slaughter scored two touchdowns. Offensive Line Stefan Horvat, Hastings: A senior in his second year as a starter on the offensive line for the Saxons. Horvat helped his team rush for nearly 3,000 yards on the seasons. Blake Mast, Delton Kellogg: Pulled up to the varsity three weeks into the season, the sophomore Mast started the final seven games of the season for the Panthers. Head coach Ryan Bates said that Mast did a great job for his team. Charlie Reiser, Lakewood: A junior up front who had a solid year for the Vikings. He was named all-conference honorable mention in the CAAC-White. End Tyler Oesch, Lakewood: Oesch made some big plays for the Vikings throughout the course of the season. He caught just five passes, but they went for 105 yards, an average of 21 yards per catch. Receivers Austin Gonser, Maple Valley: A junior wide receiver, kick returner, and defensive back for the Lions, Gonser was his team’s top pass catcher hauling in ten receptions for 108 yards. He also rushed 27 times for 127 yards. On defense, Gonser tied for the team lead in interceptions with three and also had four passes defensed and a fumble recovery. Nate Stahl, Thornapple Kellogg: Stahl, a senior, was the county’s receiving leader this fall with 21 catches for 317 yards and a touchdown. That works out to an average of over 15 yards per catch. He had a long of 49 yards. Football First Team Defense Defensive Line Austin Darling, Lakewood: A senior, he recorded 44 tackles and 1.5 sacks. He also recovered a fumble. Darling was an all-conference defensive player and an honorable mention all-conference player as an offensive lineman as well. Nate Pewoski, Hastings: A junior who played on both the offensive and defensive lines for the Saxons, he finished the year with 12 tackles. He was named honorable mention all-conference in the OK Gold this fall. Peter Westra, Thornapple Kellogg: Head coach Chad Ruger called the senior Westra his team’s “run behind guy.” A three year varsity starter, Westra made plays all over the field on both sides of the ball for the Trojans. On defense, Westra accumulated 60 tackles as a D-lineman, including four sacks. Linebackers Jeremy Bird, Thornapple Kellogg: A senior, Trojan head coach Chad Ruger said that Bird is a quality young man who was the leader of his team’s defense all fall. Bird, who battled injuries throughout the year, was second on the Trojan team with 77 tackles including two sacks. Brandon Erwin, Maple Valley: Erwin led the Lion defense in his senior season, his first at inside linebacker, with 85 tackles and an interception, earning first team all-conference honors in the KVA. Erwin also rushed the ball 28 times for 120 yards. Zach Kilbourn, Lakewood: Another guy who came up big for the Vikings on both sides of the ball this fall. He had 48 tackles, 1.5 sacks and three interceptions, which earned him honorable mention all-conference in the CAAC-White. Kilbourn also led his team on offense with 561 yards rushing and four touchdowns. He was named all-conference on that side of the ball. Jack Tromp, Lakewood: One more strong two-way guy for the Vikings. Tromp had 56 tackles and a sack. He earned honorable mention all-conference in the CAAC-White at linebacker. Defensive Backs Miguel Arjona, Hastings: Earned first team all-conference honors in the OK Gold as a junior, picking off three passes and recovering a fumble. He also had five pass deflections to go along with his 21 tackles. CJ Bronkema, Thornapple Kellogg: A force on both sides of the ball, Bronkema had 46 tackles in the Trojan secondary and was named all-conference in the OK Gold. He had one interception and knocked down nine other passes. On offense, Bronkema rushed 42 times for 318 yards, averaging eight yards per carry. He also averaged 12 yards per reception, hauling in eight passes for 95 yards. He had three touchdowns on the year. Kenny Cross, Hastings: Tied for the Saxon lead in tackles with 48, Cross had tow tackles for a loss, forced two fumbles, recovered one and had four interceptions. On the other side of he ball Cross finished his senior year with 78 rushes for 470 yards and two touchdowns. He also had a 34-yard touchdown reception. Cole Gahan, Thornapple Kellogg: Another senior, all-conference defensive back in the OK Gold for Thornapple Kellogg. Gahan had six interceptions and knocked down 11 other passes during the course of the season. Gahan, a leader on Trojan defense, had 54 tackles too. Punter Tyler Hickey, Maple Valley: Hickey averaged 38.8 yards per punt this fall, but that was a small part of his value to the Lion team. He finished off a three-year varsity career at outside linebacker with 34 tackles, five tackles for loss, and a fumble recovery. He was his team’s leading rusher, carrying 129 times for 562 yards and scored two touchdowns. He carried his team to a homecoming victory with 33 rushes on the night. Football Second Team Defense Defensive Line Noah Newton, Thornapple Kellogg: Newton closed out his senior campaign with 37 tackles for the Trojans. Diego Pesina, Maple Valley: A senior who had a solid season at defensive end for the Lions, recording 42 tackles in the seven games he played. “It was an adjustment for him going from an interior lineman to the outside, but he did it with everything he had,” said coach Lincoln. Zach Rosenberger, Maple Valley: A junior lineman who played on both sides of the ball, Rosenberger was all-conference honorable mention in the KVA this year. He ended the season with 30 tackles, and coach Lincoln called him “a force in the middle and very hard for offenses to move.” Ben Jazwinski, Thornapple Kellogg: Another senior up front for the Trojan defense, Jazwinski finished the year with 39 tackles. He made a number of big plays throughout the course of the season, recording four sacks. Linebackers Zack Kidder, Thornapple Kellogg: Kidder, a senior, led the Trojan team in tackles with 79. He also had a sack and a pair of fumble recoveries. Matt Wehr, Maple Valley: Wehr moved from the defensive line to a linebacker spot for his senior season, and recorded 34 tackles. He changed positions a few different times during the season, and coach Lincoln said, “he never complained and always gave us his best effort.” He was honorable mention allconference in the KVA. Defensive Backs Paul Hager, Lakewood: Hager finished off his high school career with a strong senior season. He had 44 tackles, and added two interceptions and a fumble recovery. Zach Leinaar, Delton Kellogg: A senior leader at safety for the Panthers he made some big plays, picking off two passes, recovering a fumble and making seven tackles for loss. Leinaar finished off the season with 40 tackles. Zach McMahon, Hastings: A junior who head coach Fred Rademacher said had a very consistent year in the Saxons’ defensive backfield. McMahon had 25 tackles, including four for a loss. He recovered a fumble and had two interceptions. Tommy Mudge, Maple Valley: The Lions’ lockdown corner for much of his senior season, Mudge had six pass break-ups and three interceptions as well as 45 tackles. “He did a nice job matching up with the other teams’ best receiver for a second straight season,” coach Lincoln said. Punter Cameron Tobias, Delton Kellogg: Tobias averaged 41 yards per punt on his 14 punts this season. On offense, the junior was one of Delton’s top threats with seven catches for 152 yards. Coach Bates called him a great blocker for his team’s Wing-T offense as well. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 22, 2012 — Page 15 Four state champs on Barry County’s first team by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The 2012 Class B State Championship team from Lakewood put six girls on the 2012 All-Barry County volleyball first and second teams, including four four-year varsity players on the first team. Delton Kellogg also has a four-year varsity player on the first team as well. They’re joined on the first team by a pair of captains from Thornapple Kellogg. In other words, there was a lot of experience on some of the local varsity volleyball teams this fall. That experience helped the Vikings to their first ever state championship this fall, the county’s first ever volleyball state championship. Thornapple Kellogg and Delton Kellogg had solid seasons as well. Hastings and Maple Valley showed improvement throughout the season. Girls’ Volleyball First Team Olivia Davis, Lakewood: The first to step to the service line each match for the Vikings, the four-year varsity starter led her team with 71 aces (Lakewood stats are through district championship). At the net the senior outside hitter recorded 356 kills and 85 blocks. She also had 173 digs on the season. Emily Kutch, Lakewood: A senior outside hitter who played all the way around for the Vikings, Kutch closed out a four-year varsity career with a team-high 584 kills. Kutch also had 337 digs, 113 blocks and 65 aces throughout the course of the season. Sydney LeMay, Thornapple Kellogg: A team captain as a junior this fall, LeMay was honorable mention all-conference in the OK Gold, leading her team in kills with 414 and blocks with 174. “Sydney is a very talented player. Her strong play at the net helped our team beat several strong teams this year, including 11 Class A schools,” said TK head coach Patty Pohl. Alaina Pohl, Thornapple Kellogg: A team captain for the second season, Pohl earned allconference in the OK Gold Conference as the Trojans’ setter. She recorded 1,266 assists on the season. She also added 72 blocks, 60 aces, 67 kills and 339 digs. “Alaina’s quickness, her consistency and her ability to stay up and positive in matches was a big key to our success as a team this season,” said coach Patty Pohl. Beth Tingley, Lakewood: The Vikings’ libero finished off a four-year varsity career with a team-high 704 digs. As Tingley went, so too did the Viking defense. Tingley also had 56 aces, 21 assists, and 53 kills. Alisha VanderWoude, Delton Kellogg: One of the Panthers’ senior captains, VanderWoude finished off a great career at Delton Kellogg by earning all-conference, all-region and academic all-state honors. VanderWoude led her team in kills with 326, and also had a team-high 72 aces and 64 total blocks. She also finished the year with 216 digs. Brooke Wieland, Lakewood: The Vikings’ setter, who started on the varsity for four seasons, finished her senior year with 1,041 assists. Her ability to attack at the net or surprise opponents with well-placed tips led to her recording 294 kills. Wieland also contributed 270 digs and 103 total blocks on the year, while knocking 50 aces with her jump serve. Girls’ Volleyball Second Team Timara Burd, Maple Valley: A three-year varsity player and a team captain as a senior for the Lions, Burd spent much of the season as her team’s setter. Burd totaled 239 assists this year, while also connecting on 33 aces and 64 kills. Burd also had 187 digs. Jordan Kietzman, Lakewood: A senior defensive specialist in her second year on the varsity, Kietzman had 210 digs. Kietzman also had 52 aces on the year, while making just 14 service errors all year long. Corrie Osterink, Hastings: A senior captain who did a little bit of everything for Hastings. She was primarily a right-side hitter, but played all the way around and was the team’s back-up setter. Osterink had 22 aces, with the second highest serving average on the team. She was also second on her team with 168 kills, 52 assists and 209 digs. Ally Owen, Hastings: The Saxons’ leftside hitter, she played all the way around as a senior. Owen blasted a team-high 74 aces this season, recording a total of 254 service points. Owen also had 145 kills and 185 digs. Rachel Parker, Delton Kellogg: Another senior captain, Parker split her time between setter and defensive specialist this year - earning all-conference and all-region honors in the process. Parker led her team with 303 digs, and also had 29 assists., 27 kills and 15 aces. Rachel Quillen, Hastings: A senior middle hitter who played all the way around for the Saxons. She had a team-high 242 kills and 81 solo blocks. “She is a solid player and great team leader, with a great attitude,” said Saxon head coach Val Slaughter. Taylor Shook, Lakewood: The Vikings’ senior middle, Shook led her team with 131 total blocks, including 76 solo blocks. Shook also managed 144 kills throughout the year, and added 58 digs too. Jessica Ziccarello, Thornapple Kellogg: Another junior who earned honorable mention all-conference in the OK Gold this year, Ziccarello led her team in attack percentage and was second in kills with 337. Ziccarello also had 37 blocks this season as well as 156 digs. Top TK/Hastings girls among fastest in the state by Brett Bremer Sports Editor It was another great season for the Thornapple Kellogg/Hastings girls. For the second straight fall, the TK/Hastings girls were undefeated in duals and invitationals, then sent a handful of girls to the Division 1 State Finals, which were held last weekend in Holland. The Thornapple Kellogg/Hastings girls’ swimming and diving team is the only varsity team of its kind in Barry County. The top athletes from the squad have been named to the 2012 All-Barry County Girls’ Swimming and Diving first and second teams. Girls’ Swimming and Diving First Team Hannah Bashore, TK/Hastings: A junior, she was the OK Rainbow champion in the 100-yard butterfly, setting a conference record with a time of 1:01.57 in the event. She earned all-conference this season, then swam the butterfly leg of the 200-yard medley at the Division 1 State Finals for the Trojans. Libby Betcher, TK/Hastings: Just a freshman, Betcher was the runner-up to teammate Alexa Schipper in the 100-yard breaststroke at the OK Rainbow Tier II Meet. She was also fifth in the 200-yard medley there. Those two strong performances helped her earn all-conference this fall. Katy Garber, TK/Hastings: Garber had two fifth-place finishes at the OK Rainbow Tier II Meet this season. She was fifth in the 100-yard butterfly with a time of 1:05.35, and placed fifth in the 50yard freestyle with a time of 26.96 seconds. Kayla Kroells, TK/Hastings: Kroells swam the freestyle leg of the 200-yard medley relay for the TK/Hastings team at the Division 1 State Finals, where the girls set a new team record in the event. Kroells was a part of team, conference and pool records that were set in that relay in at the OK Rainbow Tier II Meet, and also placed second in the 100-yard freestyle and third in the 50-yard freestyle at the conference meet. Alexa Schipper, TK/Hastings: A senior, Schipper finished off a fine high school career with a couple more swims at the Division 1 State Finals. She was 15th in the 100-yard breaststroke in 1:07.21, after setting a team record in the prelims with a time of 1:06.71. Schipper also swam the breaststroke leg for the Trojans in the 200-yard medley relay at the state finals, where they set a new team record with a time of 1:52.00 in the prelims and went on to place 15th. She was the con- ference champion in both of those events, and also placed second in the individual medley at the conference meet. Brieanna Sheldon, TK/Hastings: Sheldon was the top diver for the TK/Hastings team this fall. She placed fifth at the OK Rainbow Tier II Conference Meet with her score of 306.45. Kayla Strumberger, TK/Hastings: The top Trojan in the backstroke, Strumberger swam that leg in the 200-yard medley relay at the Division 1 State Finals where the TK/Hastings team set a new team record. Strumberger was the runner-up in the OK Rainbow Tier II this year in the 100-yard backstroke, setting a new team record of 1:03.27 in the event. She was also fifth in the 200-yard freestyle at the conference meet. Marissa Swanson, TK/Hastings: One of the top freestylers for TK/Hastings. She was sixth at the OK Rainbow Tier II Meet in the 200-yard freestyle, and fifth in the 100-yard freestyle too. Jennifer Tuokkola, TK/Hastings: The Trojans’ distance swimmer, she was fourth in both the 500-yard freestyle and the 200-yard freestyle at the OK Rainbow Tier II Meet. Tuokkola earned all-conference honors for her performance that day. Girls’ Swimming and Diving Second Team Emily Borden, TK/Hastings: Borden scored with a pair of relay teams for TK/Hastings at the OK Rainbow Tier II Meet. She and her teammates were 12th in the 200-yard freestyle relay and 13th in the 200yard medley relay. Madi Cole, TK/Hastings: Cole just missed out on the scoring in the 500-yard freestyle at the OK Rainbow Tier II Conference Meet. She was 17th in the event. Alicia Czarnecki, TK/Hastings: A senior, she was a part of the Trojan relay team that placed 13th in the 200-yard medley at the OK Rainbow Tier II Meet. She was also a part of the 400-yard freestyle relay team that scored in 11th place. Allison Esther, TK/Hastings: A senior, Esther joined teammates Czarnecki, Borden and Kaitlyn Telfor in a 13th-place finish in the 200-yard medley relay at the OK Rainbow Tier II Meet. That group finished its race in 2:23.87. Raelee Olson, TK/Hastings: The TK/Hastings team’s number two diver for much of the season. Olson was ninth in the diving competition at the OK Rainbow Tier II Meet, finishing with 230.20 points. Lauren Ricketts, TK/Hastings: Ricketts placed tenth at the OK Rainbow Meet in the 50-yard freestyle, touching the wall in 27.61 seconds. Ricketts also had a 14th-place time of 1:15.66 in the 100-yard backstroke at the conference meet. McKayla Sheldon, TK/Hastings: Sheldon had a couple top 15 finishes at the OK Rainbow Tier II Meet, including a 14thplace time of 2:49.22 in the 200-yard individual medley. She was 15th in the 100-yard breaststroke that day in Hastings, finishing that race in 1:24.24. Laura Shinavier, TK/Hastings: Shinavier, a junior, placed 11th at the OK Rainbow Tier II Meet in the 100-yard backstroke, with a time of 1:13.02. Kaitlyn Telfor, TK/Hastings: Telfor placed 15th at the OK Rainbow Tier II Meet in the 100-yard freestyle with a time of 1:05.71. Telfor also helped a Trojan team to a 13thplace finish in the 200-yard medley relay at the conference meet. Swimmers set records at finals The Thornapple Kellogg/Hastings girls did exactly what they wanted to do at the state finals - they swam faster than they’d ever swum before. The TK/Hastings team of Kayla Strumberger, Alexa Schipper, Hannah Bashore and Kayla Kroells broke their own team record in the 200-yard medley relay at the Division 1 State Championships in the Holland Aquatic Center. Strumberger had a split of 30.03 seconds in the backstroke, getting the B race started in the finals Saturday. Schipper followed with a 30.09 split in the breaststroke, the fastest split in that stroke among the eight swimmers in the field. Bashore then took off on the butterfly leg, finishing that in 27.56. Kroells raced from one end of the pool and back in the freestyle, finishing her leg in 25.37. It all added up to a time of 1 minute 53.05 seconds and a 15th place finish. That wasn’t the team record race though. The foursome was actually even faster Friday in the preliminary race, finishing in 1:52.00. Schipper was the only one of the girls to swim in an individual event. She placed 15th in the 100-yard breaststroke with a time of 1:07.21 in the finals, after setting a team record in the preliminary race Friday at 1:06.71. Those two performances netted the Trojan team six points, and put them in 31st place. The Division 1 State Championship was the only meet the Trojan girls were at all year where team scores were kept and they didn’t win. It was West Ottawa that came out on top at the finals, finishing with 293.5 points. Farmington Hills Mercy was second with 272 points, followed by Saline 266, Zeeland 150, South Lyon 142, Rockford 139, Hudsonville 125, Novi 101, Clarkston 89 and Salem 81 in the top ten. Other performances from teams from this The team of swimmers in Holland for the 2012 Division 1 State Championship for Thornapple Kellogg/Hastings included Hannah Bashore (from left), Kayla Kroells, Kayla Strumberger, Alexa Schipper, Marissa Swanson, Libby Betcher, Kortney Dobbin and Katy Garber. side of the state included Grandville placing 20th with 29.5 points and Byron Center placing 21st with 21.5. West Ottawa was helped to the team championship by the performance of its 200-yard medley relay team. Colleen VandePoel, Chelsea Rish, Anna Battistello and Caroline Fender teamed up to with that event for the Panthers in 1:45.14, finishing .14 seconds ahead of the runner-up team from Zeeland. They followed that up with the team of Anna Babinee, Lauren DeShaw, Fender and Elizabeth Fris winning the 200-yard freestyle relay in 1:35.58. West Ottawa also had the state’s top Division 1 diver, with Dani VanderZwaag recording 425.45 points in the finals. SAXON WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE Complete online schedule at: www.hassk12.org FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 23 THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 29 A FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30 SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 24 TBA Boys Varsity Ice Hockey Manistee HS A Manistee Tourney 10:00 am Boys Fresh. Basketball Hastings HS Scrimmage H Boys Boys Boys Boys 8th A 7th A 7th B 8th B Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Duncan Lake MS Duncan Lake MS Duncan Lake MS Duncan Lake MS A H H A TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 27 Thornapple Kellogg/Hastings senior Kayla Strumberger takes off at the start of the 200-yard medley relay at the Division 1 State Championships in Holland. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Thornapple Kellogg/Hastings’ Kayla Kroells takes off as teammate Hannah Bashore hits the wall during the 200-yard medley relay at the Division 1 State Championship in Holland. 4:00 pm Girls Fresh. Basketball Otsego HS 5:30 pm Girls JV Basketball Otsego HS 7:00 pm Girls Varsity Basketball Otsego HS A A A WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 28 4:15 pm 4:15 pm 5:30 pm 5:30 pm Boys Boys Boys Boys 7th B 8th B 8th A 7th A Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Thornapple-Kellogg MS Thornapple-Kellogg MS Thornapple-Kellogg MS Thornapple-Kellogg MS 5:30 pm 5:30 pm 7:00 pm 8:00 pm Girls Girls Girls Boys JV Fresh. Varsity Varsity Basketball Basketball Basketball Ice Hockey Comstock Park HS/MS Pennfield HS Comstock Park HS/MS Warren Mott HS A A A A Times and dates subject to change MONDAY, NOVEMBER 26 4:15 pm 4:15 pm 5:30 pm 5:30 pm 4:30 pm Boys Varsity Basketball Hastings HS Scrimmage H A H H A Thanks to This Week’s Sponsor: Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, P.C. “Quality Care with Compassion” 840 Cook Rd. Hastings, MI 49058 Phone: 269-945-9520 Toll Free: 800-596-1005 Contact us on the web @ www.hoc-mi.com HASTINGS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS Contact Nancy 945-2742 or hastingsathleticboosters@gmail.com to sponsor the schedule 77572530 8:00 pm Boys Varsity Ice Hockey Manistee HS Manistee Tourney �Page 16 — Thursday, November 22, 2012 — The Hastings Banner CHAMPIONS, continued from page 1 had the quickness,” said Kellie Rowland. “Brooke Wieland our setter really stepped up with that ball. She felt it in warm-ups and the hitters were just like, ‘keep setting baby because it’s right where we need it.’” Wieland finished the night with 31 assists, as well as 11 digs, four kills and two aces. Lakewood really took off in the second set. A kill by Kutch, a well-placed tip by Smith, and back-to-back aces by Wieland propelled the Vikings to an 8-3 lead. The Broncos did get as close as 9-7, but Lakewood ended their rally there and then pulled away. “We have more size and more power (than North Branch) and I think that was the killer. Kutch and Davis, they were putting the ball away pretty easy over there,” Rowland said. Kutch had a team-high 18 kills and Davis added 14. A couple of big kills by Davis, off assists from Smith, helped the Vikings pull in front after the two teams were tied 15-15 in the third set. “Don’t give now,” Rowland said she thought as the Vikings chased the final few points. “This game, it’s such an intense game. It’s not over until it’s over. Oh my gosh, I didn’t want to go into a fourth game. The heart can only take so much any more, I’m not very young and they just really executed and did what they needed to do to beat them.” Davis hit a kill to make it 22-17 in that third set, then looked determined as she stepped back to serve. Her first attempt was an ace, her fourth of the match, to make it 23-17. After a North Branch time-out, the Vikings finished off the victory. Tingley matched Wieland for the team lead in digs with 11. Kutch added seven, Morris six and Kietzman five. The Vikings’ serve receive was excellent, allowing the team to run its offense smoothly. Only four times all match did the Broncos win as many as three consecutive points. Laura Willson had the Broncos’ only ace. Micaela Deshetsky led the Broncos with 11 kills and Willson had ten. Jamie Barrows had a team-high 20 assists. Rachel Fish led her team with 13 digs. The Vikings end the year with a record of 52-4. There was a parade on Main Street in Lake Odessa for the Vikings early in the afternoon, then the team traveled to the high school to get set for its escort out of town. “It was amazing,” said Young. “Everyone in town was just there for you, and it was the Lakewood’s varsity volleyball team shows off its hardware as it celebrates its 2012 Class B State Championship after a 3-0 victory over North Branch in the state final Saturday inside Battle Creek’s Kellogg Arena. (Photo by Brett Bremer) best feeling in the world. Then, the escort with the police and the firemen to Nashville it just felt so good. We made everyone in the town proud and just, it’s so amazing.” Class B State Semifinal The path to the state final was a little different for Lakewood senior defensive specialist Jordan Kietzman. Senior libero Beth Tingley said all her classmates started as ball girls for the Lakewood varsity volleyball team in about fourth grade. They got to know the coaches. They got to know the tradition. Kietzman transferred from Saranac in the seventh grade. “We took a gamble on Jordan in middle school,” said Lakewood varsity volleyball coach Kellie Rowland. “She was probably the last one that made the team. I said, ‘let’s do it. Let’s see what she’s got.’ “She’s shown a lot of improvement in one year (from junior to senior year). She’s one of our hardest workers and everybody on the team knows that Jordan is one of our hardest workers. Watching her is what makes them work. It really is.” After a 25-22, 25-9, 25-21 victory over Dearborn Divine Child at the Class B State Semifinal in Battle Creek’s Kellogg Arena, the Vikings had just one more day left to work, last Friday. “It’s wonderful to have a shot (at a state championship), especially with this group of seniors,” said Rowland. “They have made lots of sacrifices. They have worked hard. They never bat an eye no matter what I demand out of them or ask of them. So, now we have one The Vikings’ Olivia Davis hits an attack Saturday against North Branch as teammate Emily Kutch looks on from behind. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Lakewood senior Emily Kutch gets as hug from her father Carl before heading under through the tunnel made by her classmates following Saturday’s 3-0 win over North Branch. (Photo by Brett Bremer) more practice to get ready for one more step.” She said her seniors took over this year, and they certainly did it Thursday night . Tingley had a match-high 14 digs, and Kietzman was second on the team with six. Fellow seniors Olivia Davis and Emily Kutch took advantage of a smaller Divine Child front line, pounding 15 kills each. Senior Taylor Shook had a match-high three blocks. Senior setter Brooke Wieland had 31 assists to go with her three kills and six aces. The first set was back and forth. Rowland attributed that mostly to her team getting used to the Falcon attack which was more finesse than power. The Vikings had seen big hitters throughout their postseason run. Lakewood made the adjustments it needed too, and blew away the Falcons in the second set. The third set started the same way as the second. An ace by Kutch forced a Divine Child time-out, with the Vikings up 9-4. The rowdy Lakewood students, decked out in camouflage for the event, started the “see you Saturday!” chant at that point. It might have been a little early for that, but they weren’t wrong. The Falcons rallied to take a 15-14 lead, but the Vikings got the serve back with a kill by sophomore Vanessa Reynhout. Wieland stepped to the service line and hit four aces with her jump serve in a string of six straight service points to put her team up 21-15. “Once I get on a roll, it feels good,” Wieland said. “I just keep going at it. I get the rhythm going. I takes a little bit, but once I get the rhythm it’s just good.” Big blocks by Reynhout and Charlie Smith helped that run continue when Wieland wasn’t acing the Falcons. Morgan Blair and Jasmine DeMare had seven kills each for the Falcons in the loss. Megan Mancini put up 20 assists. The digs were split, with libero Christina Porada leading her team with eight and DeMare and Kori Schmidt adding seven each. Rowland said it was the plan to try and keep the ball away from Porada, and that part of the plan worked. Behind Tingley, the Vikings spread their digs around too. Freshman Karly Morris had five, as did Davis and Wieland. North Branch, ranked second in the state in Class B behind the Lakewood girls, bested Whitehall 25-18, 23-25, 25-16, 25-23 in its semifinal Thursday. The Lakewood Vikings and the Broncos last met in the state tournament in 2008, when the Broncos scored a 3-0 victory in the Class B Quarterfinals in North Branch. “We’re back to the drawing board tomorrow,” Rowland said. “One more practice to prepare tomorrow to try to finish the final step. North Branch is very good and we’re going to have to play out of our minds and play well.” Lakewood setter Brooke Wieland (left) and middle Vanessa Reynhout (right) go up to block an attack by North Branch’s Laura Willson during the first set of Saturday’s Class B State Championship match in Battle Creek. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Future Saxon Night will be held Dec. 1 77572527 The Hastings High School boys’ basketball program will host its 6th annual Future Saxon Night on Saturday, Dec. 1 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Hastings High School. Students in grades K-6 are invited to spend the evening with the basketball teams, with activities including basketball, volleyball, swimming, karaoke, and arts and crafts. Pizza, pop, and candy will be available for purchase. The cost per student is $5. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-11-29.pdf 7624e4a4886f8fda67b6e46e9656a200 PDF Text Text Survey shows what Delton residents want from bond Lansing looking to reform education – again Delton girls start hoops season strong See Story on Page 2 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 13 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 47 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, November 29, 2012 Proposed forensic audit called a ‘witch hunt’ NEWS BRIEFS Delton Moose hosting breakfast with Santa Youngsters can enjoy breakfast with Santa Saturday, Dec. 1, at the Delton Moose Lodge from 9 to 11 a.m. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available for a free pancake and sausage breakfast. The Clauses also will have a little time to pose for photos with good little boys and girls, and some elves will be available to print the photos. Children will be able to decorate frames for their photos. The lodge is on M-43, north of Delton. For more information, call 269-623-2112. Christmas parade will fill streets Hastings will host the annual Christmas parade at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 1. The parade will line up along East State Street near Boltwood Street, head west down East State Street, turn south down Church Street and travel to Center Street. The parade will head east on Center Street to the former Felpausch parking lot, where it will disband. State Police collecting for the holidays The Wayland Post Michigan State Police are organizing a drive to gather toys, food and clothing for needy individuals and families. The Michigan State Police has long referred to each of its patrol cars as a “Blue Goose” and hope to stuff the cars full of toys, food and clothing. MSP cruisers and troopers will be in the parking lots of Hastings and Plainwell Walmart stores Saturday, Dec. 1, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. All items donated will be given to the United Way of Barry County and Project Hope of Dorr for families in Barry and Allegan counties. Pets seeking ‘home for the holidays’ Barry County Animal Shelter pets will be featured in Home for the Holidays, an open house for the public to see the animals available for adoption. The event will be Wednesday, Dec. 5, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Barry County Commission on Aging on Woodlawn Avenue in Hastings. The Barry County Humane Society will also have coupons for $20 off the cost of spaying or neutering shelter pets being adopted. People who are not able to adopt a pet are encouraged to bring a small cat toy or dog treat to donate. Thornapple Trail reopening Dec. 1 The Paul Henry Thornapple Trail in Middleville will reopen Dec. 1. A portion of the trail was closed in November for deer hunting season. It will reopen Dec. 1 for non-motorized use throughout the winter. The trail starts at Stagecoach Park off Main Street in Middleville and travels southeast along the Thornapple River. by Doug VanderLaan Editor Add a parliamentary procedure rule book to the holiday gift list of Barry County Commissioners who, in Tuesday’s board meeting, thought they had approved a motion by a 4-3 vote, then learned later they hadn’t. The miscue involved the emotional and controversial animal control issue and led to some direct and personal charges. “Mr. Houtman is on a witch hunt,” said Commissioner Howard “Hoot” Gibson of fellow Commissioner Robert Houtman following the meeting, “and I’m not serving as a commissioner to waste taxpayers’ money.” It was Houtman who had proposed a motion that the county order a forensic audit of Barry County Animal Control operations for two general purposes: to conduct an inventory baseline of assets for newly hired Animal Shelter Director Diana Newman and to determine possible animal control department involvement in alleged animal cruelty charges brought against a special advisor to County Sheriff Dar Leaf (see related article in this issue). The 4-3 vote, with Houtman, Dan Parker, Joe Lyons and Jeff VanNortwick approving, overruled the votes of Chair Craig Stolsonburg, Vice Chair Ben Geiger and Gibson. Commissioner Don Nevins was absent. The decision was declared passed and it stood until the meeting approached its conclusion. “I’m sorry that I’m not up on parliamentary procedure, but the 4-3 vote for the audit is not enough votes to pass,” said Stolsonburg. “In order for a resolution like this to pass, it states a majority of the sitting, elected commissioners must approve. The four ‘yes’ votes isn’t enough, it takes five to approve.” County Administrator Michael Brown added his clarification, confirming that a final action vote did require a five-vote majority, though a recommendation for him to return to a future board meeting with information and data leading to a final action could be approved on a 4-3 vote. County Clerk Pam Jarvis righted the misstep by pointing out that her discussion notes indicated a board resolution for Brown to further investigate and that the 4-3 vote could stand. Saving face, however, did not quell the issue’s roiling undercurrent. “A forensic audit would tell us if controlled substances were used improperly,” said Houtman in reference to the discovery of dead animals at a foreclosed Middleville home belonging to the special advisor to Leaf who sat on the Animal Shelter Advisory Board. “I’m interested in more than just an inventory of what’s on the shelf today.” In remarks following the meeting, Houtman said he is concerned that the investigation into the animal cruelty allegations is not being conducted by the Michigan State Police — as recommended by the board last week — but by Leaf, a county employee who appointed the alleged animal abuser as his special deputy advisor. “We have an obligation to determine if our assets or pets were involved,” maintained Houtman, “this has got to see the light of day. If I was sheriff, I would want a third party involved. I believe the sheriff questioned her about euthanizing dogs at her house. How did that happen — and how many dogs were euthanized?” Leaf, who attended the board meeting but did not speak publicly, insisted at its conclusion that the investigation was complete and did not require state police involvement at the direction of the county prosecutor’s office. “It’s done, it was a misdemeanor,” said Leaf of the investigation. “She was a volunteer, not a full-time employee. If she had been drunk driving, it would not have been enough to involve the Michigan State Police. I’m concerned about the liability of commissioners trying her in commission chambers with very little evidence rather than in a court of law.” In a later telephone call, Leaf pointed out a similar situation with a parking enforcement officer in the City of Hastings convicted of indecent exposure. “Everybody’s talking about a conflict of interest,” pointed out Leaf, “but when the City had that problem, they did their own investigation and no one hollered then.” The cost of a forensic audit, estimated by Gibson to be $15,000 to $20,000, also escalated the concern of other commissioners. “I believe a baseline should be available to a new director,” offered VanNortwick. “To sensitize this with cost and putting some hysteria into the discussion is inappropriate. We don’t need to jump into an hysterical situation and try to derail this thing.” Gibson, who pointedly accused Houtman of mounting a witch hunt against Leaf, offered a caustic compromise as Tuesday’s meeting ended. “I would suggest that Mr. Houtman pay for the audit,” proposed Gibson. “If they find anything, we’ll reimburse him.” In other business, the board: • Presented its annual evaluation of Brown, rating his performance at 4.52 on a scale showing 5.0 as the optimum mark. Ratings were returned by seven of eight commissioners who evaluated Brown’s performance in 12 categories. Brown received a perfect 5.0 from all commissioners for financial management. Six of the seven provided a similar mark for interaction. Brown’s lowest rating came in delegation, though Stolsonburg remarked that “we’ve asked a lot of you this year. Not only were you our administrator, but you were equalization director, animal shelter director and Veteran’s Affairs director. Added Geiger: “Michael just raises the bar because he promotes such a professional culture.” Parker told the story of visiting recently with a Muskegon couple, one a township official and the other a county commissioner. See AUDIT, page 2 Steve Reid to lead Christmas parade as grand marshal by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer The theme of this year’s Hastings Christmas parade is “Joy to the World,” and that makes the selection of this year’s grand marshal particularly apt. Whether serving as the director of Love Inc. of Hastings, or promoting and organizing a variety of community musical events, performing original dramas or serving as one of Santa’s helpers, Steve Reid has done much to bring joy into the lives of others during the Christmas season, and all year round. “We wanted to honor Steve because he has done so much to support Christmas in downtown Hastings and beyond,” said Karen Heath, a member of the Downtown Business Team and one of the organizers of this year’s Christmas in Hastings weekend. Reid said he is honored to have been chosen to lead the parade, which steps off at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 1, in downtown Hastings. “It was Joan Foster from the Chamber of Commerce who got me started as Santa’s helper in 1981. As his helper, I’ve ridden on floats at the back of the parade, gone to Santa’s house and even ridden on the airplane to get Santa to the North Pole,” said Reid. “One year I even had to walk about half of the parade route before my ride came. But, this year I have the privilege of riding in a convertible from Salvation Army.” In addition to helping Santa, Reid keeps the Christmas spirit alive and well in Hastings by arranging for live music on the Holly Trolley since 1987. See GRAND MARSHAL. pg. 2 Steve Reid stands outside the office of Love Inc. in Hastings, where he has worked for more than 30 years. Many questions go unanswered in animal cruelty case by David DeDecker Staff Writer Controversy continues to swirl over the handling of an investigation into animal cruelty and abandonment charges brought against a Middleville woman whose foreclosed home was found two weeks ago by the new owner to contain dog feces on the floors and bags of dead dogs on the property. Because Marcie Tepper is a member of the Barry County Animal Shelter Advisory Board and a special deputy advisor to Sheriff Dar Leaf, some community members and groups are suggesting that the county sheriff’s investigation into the charges against her is a conflict of interest. At the request of the Animal Shelter Advisory Board, the Barry County Board of Commissioners voted 6-2 Nov. 20 to direct County Administrator Michael Brown to request that the Michigan State Police take over the investigation to provide third-party clarification of questions related to how many dogs were involved, from where they came, how they were killed, and if euthanizing drugs may have been used illicitly. However, in phone interviews with Brown and Michigan State Police Lt. Steve Harper, the Banner learned that only the county prosecutor or the Michigan Attorney General’s office may request the MSP to investigate a case. Contacted Tuesday, Barry County Prosecutor Tom Evans expressed confidence in Leaf’s handling of the matter. “Our office immediately issued charges with regard to the neglected animals, and the defendant will be brought to court,” recounted Evans of the actions taken by his office following receipt of Leaf’s investigative report. “The reports I have show a diligent investigation. Our office will review any additional possible charges that are brought to us.” Some question, however, why no effort was made to determine how the dogs died and if illicit use of euthanizing drugs may have been involved. Leaf told the Banner last week that the bagged dead dogs had been sent to the MSU veterinary college for autopsies, but reversed that position on Tuesday. “We never sent the dogs to Lansing,” said Leaf. “We had asked that, and the prosecutor’s office said ‘no.’ We tagged them and entered them as evidence, but [an assistant prosecutor] in the prosecutor’s offices said he didn’t want them.” Evans said, “The initially seized deceased dog had a necropsy performed at [a local veterinary office]. Given the state of decomposition, no cause of death could be determined. That dog is part of the charged offense. “We were informed by an officer on the scene, with regards to the deceased dogs found later, that they were very badly decomposed and were not suitable for necropsy,” said Evans. “We did advise the sheriff department that the dogs, including the necropsied “What it boils down to is the appearance of impropriety and conflict of interest. The proper way to address these concerns is through the Michigan Sheriff’s Association. They have best practices and standards in place and will review the investigation. I have advised the sheriff to seek the MSA’s counsel.” Prosecutor Tom Evans dog, did not have to be maintained.” Leaf said Tepper took possession of between four and eight dogs, since 2008, from the Barry County Animal Shelter. He maintained that the level of the charges and Tepper’s role as a volunteer — not a fulltime employee — precludes any suggested involvement by the state police. “It’s over, this was just a misdemeanor,” said Leaf on Tuesday of the investigation. “Everyone’s concerned about this being a conflict of interest, but she was a volunteer, not a full-time employee. This comes down to a couple of commissioners wanting to try her in the commission chambers rather than a court of law.” Evans said commissioners have raised the question of conflict of interest with the Sheriff investigating Tepper, his hand-picked volunteer. Evans said he has spoken to both Leaf and Harper about the situation. “What it boils down to is the appearance of impropriety and conflict of interest,” said Evans. “The proper way to address these concerns is through the Michigan Sheriff’s Association. They have best practices and standards in place and will review the investigation. I have advised the sheriff to seek the MSA’s counsel.” Leaf attended Tuesday’s county board meeting where commissioners voted to authorize Brown to look into the cost of a forensic audit which would include a record of the euthanizing drug inventory at the Barry County Animal Shelter. After the meeting, Commissioner Howard Gibson came to the Banner office to say there are no drugs at the animal shelter now and wondered how long it has been since a euthanizing drug supply was kept there. According to the Animal Control office those drugs have not been on hand since midsummer. The contracted veterinarian now inventories the required substances. (For a related story on the Tepper incident see the county commissioners’ meeting in this issue.) �Page 2 — Thursday, November 29, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Survey reveals what Delton residents want from upcoming bond Board refinances bond debt to save district $646,711 by David DeDecker Staff Writer The Delton Kellogg Board of Education Nov. 19 heard results from a survey showing what residents hope to get out of a bond proposal the board has scheduled for the May 2013 election. Citizens Rob Bunday and Geoff Stevens, members of a committee researching what physical improvements the community would like to see in the school district, presented the information. No dollar amount has been set for the bond proposal. The committee has worked over several months to compile a list of priorities in the schools. Three levels of priority items have been formulated with the high-priority items having a price tag of nearly $10 million. Bunday said the community indicated that overall goals of the proposed 2013 bond should be to support and improve education; improve school operations; save energy; address health and safety concerns; improve handicap accessibility; improve athletic facilities; increase community engagement; and enhance the curb appeal of the schools. Survey responders said the highest priority is paving and drive improvements. The next priority, and the lowest cost, is to replace windows in the elementary school with more energy-efficient windows. The main grouping on the list of priorities is to modernize science and computer labs in the middle school, update the vocational education shops in the high school, install new boilers in all three schools and replace the roof on the elementary school addition. Also on the top-priority list are replacing GRAND MARSHAL, continued from pg. 1 “It’s been a lot of fun,” said Reid. “We’ve had Frank Zappa’s guitarist, a member of the Classics Four, Mr. Blues, who makes up impromptu songs about the riders, Acoustic Christmas, a band from Grand Rapids. We try to have a wide variety of music — bluegrass, four-part harmony, oldies groups and more.” “My goal is to keep helping out with the trolley as long as I can,” said Reid. In addition to scheduling music for the trolley during the holiday season, with the exception of a three-year hiatus, Reid has scheduled musical groups for the Summerfest main stage since 1980. He also scheduled and promoted Community Music Showcase at Arby’s from 1991 until 2001 and last year’s Community Concert series. “There was so much appreciation for what we were doing at Summerfest — that is how we got started at Arby’s,” said Reid. “We scheduled 250 concerts during 10 years at Arby’s. My dad, [ Don Reid] videoed all the concerts for [cable] television.” Throughout the years, Reid has also performed two original dramas— one about Simon Peter and the other about Joseph. “I’ve done them inside and out,” he said. “I’ve performed them in churches, and one time we did a live drama of Mary and Joseph that went through downtown, with sheep and donkeys, and llamas instead of camels. We had angels on the roof of the cinema. It wasn’t until afterward that we learned one of the angels was afraid of heights — we haven’t seen her since,” he added with a chuckle. As the director of Love Inc. since Jan. 1, 1984, Reid has helped spread Christmas cheer to hundreds, if not thousands, of people during the holiday season through the agency’s Christmas basket program. Whether serving as the director of Love Inc., performing in a drama, organizing and promoting concerts or helping Santa, Reid said he enjoys what he does because of people’s reactions. “I like to help Santa with [public relations],” he said. “I ask them if they believe in Santa or if they are skeptical what Santa has brought them over the years,” he said. “I like to see people laugh when Mr. Blues makes up a song ... “People say a person has to be out of their mind to do all this, but it’s the only mind I have,” said Reid, who said he plans to keep planning concerts, working at Love Inc. and scheduling music for the trolley as long as he is able because it gives him joy, as well. “My wife, Joyce, died two years ago and she was very supportive of all of this when she was alive,” said Reid. “With her passing, this kind of helps fill in some of the gaps. “I have a picture of my wife with Santa and it is one of my prized possessions,” said Reid. “To do all of this, I have had to be over generous with my time, but she always supported me and I will never forget her for it.” Hastings kicks off holiday season with celebration beginning tomorrow Christmas returns to Hastings this weekend. The festivities start Friday, Nov. 30, with the Hastings Holiday Hop downtown from 5 to 8 p.m., featuring free Victorian carriage rides, a manger and tree-lighting ceremony, caroling, live music, an arts and crafts show at the library and more, and continues throughout the weekend with a production of “Miracle of 34th Street” by the Thornapple Players, and the annual Hastings Christmas parade at 2 p.m. Saturday. During the Holiday Hop, participating downtown businesses will be decorated for the season, and many will offer light refreshments for shoppers, as well as live music at some locations. Gift wrapping will be available at Our Favorite Things, 123 W. State St., with donations given to local charity and at the Christmas village set up inside the old Walker’s store next to Richie’s. While at the Christmas village, youngsters can visit with Santa and his elves, who will be serving hot chocolate. For an additional dose of old-fashioned Christmas charm, free horse-drawn Victorian carriage rides will be available, compliments of participating downtown businesses. Free rides on the Holley Trolley also will be available during the event and for the remainder of the holiday season. Special events during the hop will include a manger dedication on the Barry County Courthouse lawn and a tree lighting at Hastings City Hall at 8:30 p.m. In conjunction with the Hastings Downtown Business Team’s Holiday Hop, Hastings Public Library will hold its sixth annual Taste of the Holidays and third annual Art at the Library, from 5 to 8 p.m. During the event, 27 local artists will be located around the library, displaying a variety of creative works that can be purchased for Christmas giving. After shopping, guests may stop in the library’s community room and taste holiday goodies that are traditions in many local households and vote for favorites The Thornapple Players will present “Miracle on 34th Street” at 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 29, Friday, Nov. 30, and Saturday, Dec. 1. Matinee performances will be given at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 1, and Sunday, Dec. 2, in Leason Sharpe Hall inside the Barry Community Enrichment Center, located at 231 S. Broadway. For tickets, call 269-945-2332 or visit Progressive Graphics on South Jefferson Street in Hastings. The annual Christmas parade, which will be led this year by grand marshal Steve Reid and feature a theme of “Joy to the World,” will step off at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 1. The parade will march down State Street west to Church Street where it will turn south to Center Street then east continue to the old Felpausch parking lot. the high school gym floor and bleachers, the bathrooms/concession/ticket building near the football field, and replacing the track asphalt and surfaces. A major expenditure on the list is to purchase new furniture for 33 percent of the classrooms. Auditorium lighting and sound improvements are among the high priorities, as is replacement of auditorium seating. Doors and hardware also need replacing, according to the community, and are high on the priority list. Finally, respondents supported the need for two new school buses. Bunday and Stevens spoke about a second tier of priorities, with a cost of just over $6.5 million. A third tier tallies up to nearly $1.5 million and new fencing around the baseball fields. There were also numbers for new athletic facilities including a 21,500-square-foot community center priced at $4.56 million. Committee members working on the new proposal discussed a new team building, new multi-purpose gym in the elementary, an addition to the high school gym, a wrestling room addition, and elevated indoor track and a fitness center. One person asked whether building maintenance and upkeep for a new community center was included in the $4.56 million estimate. It is not. The next tentative community meeting to discuss the proposed bond issue is scheduled for Dec. 12 at the high school. In other business, the board unanimously approved refinancing of the remaining balance on 2003 school building and site bonds. The refinancing, a 7.444 percent savings, will reduce the district’s interest expense by $646,711 over the next seven years. Athletic Director Mike Mohn introduced nearly 30 scholar athletes from the fall season and congratulated them on their successes. He said the girls’ cross-country team had a cumulative GPA of 3.513 and volleyball had a team GPA of 3.49, making both teams recipients of first team Academic All-State Team honors. Mohn said the cumulative GPA for the 30 students honored at the board meeting is 3.55. Teacher Kim Nguyen and middle school principal Diane Talo spoke about a method of teaching called Strategic Instruction Model. Nguyen and other Delton Kellogg teachers were certified as SIM trainers recently and are bringing their expertise to the classroom. They may also bring their training expertise to other school districts. Talo said students are being asked to have increased levels of higher-order thinking and problem solving. She said standardized testing are changing to challenge students in these specific areas. “We are now prepared to rise to the occasion,” said Talo. High school principal Stewart Schofield told the board that a humanities trip to Chicago for the senior class is being planned for the spring. Board member Jim McManus said the building trades house is ready for winter, and students will be working inside the house. He said the project is on schedule. Marsha Bassett said the suicide prevention committee will host three speakers for a community parents night Dec. 10. The meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. in the high school audito- rium. The board approved the first reading of school policy changes and will begin a second reading review. During the public comment portion of the meeting, a resident shared his concern over people not stopping for school buses near his home. He said on three occasions, different cars have gone around the school bus when the flashing lights are on and the stop sign is extended. The man said his 7-year-old granddaughter has to cross the road after getting off the bus and that drivers are not even slowing down. He said a car once knocked over his mailbox while going around a school bus. The man asked the board to do something to educate people about safety issues, and if caught, the large fine and points that could be put on their driver’s licenses. The meeting then went into closed session for contract negotiations and student reinstatements. The next meeting of the Delton Kellogg Board of Education will be Monday, Dec. 17, at 7 p.m. in the elementary school. AUDIT, continued from page 1 “I started talking about our situation and they kept asking me, ‘What’s this guy’s name?’ I didn’t want to tell them.” • Approved $24,630 from the data processing fund to purchase network switches from NuWave Technologies and installation services from Syekon, Inc. • Approved the waiver of adoption and other fees to pay spay and neutering fees on a revolving basis through the use of donated funds for adoptable animals at the county animal shelter to approved animal rescue organizations. • Approved a Memorandum of Understanding between the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and the Barry County Animal Shelter for the Carroll Petrie Foundation Dog Rescue Project. The approved agreement will provide grants from the Petrie Foundation to shelters that increase the number of dogs saved through relocation. • Approved a budget amendment reflecting several adjustments for insurance claim reimbursements and expenditures for cleanup of a sewer backup at the jail, for purchase of tactical uniforms, and for line-item transfers of funds between the general fund and several department budgets. • Approved transfers and disbursements in the amount of $633,021. • Acknowledged and supported the application for grant funds from MSU Extension and the Great Lakes Integrated Science Assessment Center to establish a climate adaptation planning program for Barry County. • Approved the hire of Newman as the Barry County Animal Shelter director. Stopping for a school bus is the law by David DeDecker Staff Writer Area residents have recently expressed concern over what they consider a trend of passing school buses when the buses have stopped to pick up or drop off students. A Hastings resident called the Banner to say he witnessed several vehicles going around school buses when the buses were stopped and had signals flashing. A Delton resident stood during public comment at last week’s board of education meeting to say his 7-year-old granddaughter was in danger because cars were going around the stopped school bus. He said one vehicle had even run over his mailbox. Gov. Rick Snyder signed legislation into law July 3 that requires motorists to stop completely at least 20 feet from school buses that have turned on red flashing lights and engaged the stop arm when students are loading or unloading. SB1030 states motorists shall remain stopped until the school bus deactivates its flashers and retracts the federally required stop arm and the bus resumes motion. The law deletes a previous provision that allowed motorists driving through intersections, controlled by a traffic officer or a stopand-go signal, to pass a bus “at a reasonable and proper speed but no more than 10 miles per hour and with caution for the safety of passengers getting on or off the bus.” Parents are required to ensure children’s safety when approaching or leaving a school bus. “It is the responsibility of the parent or legal guardian to see that a child gets safely to and from the bus stop,” states the Michigan Department of Education on its website, www.michigan.gov/mde. “The school district provides transportation as a non-mandated service and establishes placement of the bus stops in accordance with the requirements of the law.” The lights on a school bus used to notify other traffic of an upcoming stop must be activated 200 feet from the stop, and so, bus stops must be at least 200 feet apart. The website also says the primary concern is visibility of the bus to other traffic and the consideration of stopping distances necessary for other motor vehicles in order to accomplish safe loading and unloading of the children. In general, state law requires 400 feet of clear and continuous visibility on a highway or roadway where the speed limit is more than 35 miles per hour, and 200 feet where the speed limit is less than 35 miles per hour. According to the Michigan Secretary of State’s website, www.michigan.gov/sos, three points will be added to an individual’s driver’s license for both “disobeying a traffic signal or stop sign or improper passing” and for “failure to stop for a school bus or for disobeying a school crossing guard.” Current law also states that if a vehicle illegally passes a school bus, the court considers it evidence the registered owner was the driver at the time of the incident. Sentencing guidelines show fines of $100 to $500 if convicted of illegally passing a school bus. Fine money goes to public libraries. The law also allows a court to assess convicted motorists a maximum of 100 hours of community service to be performed at local schools. A woman went before the Barry County magistrate this week for driving around a stopped Hastings school bus. She received a $250 fine. The court will forward the civil infraction information on to the State of Michigan. She may now be facing three to six points on her Michigan driver’s license as determined by the Secretary of State. The Thornapple Players will present Miracle on 34th Street 77572734 Adapted by Mountain Community Theater from the novel by Valentine Davies. Based upon the Twentieth Century Fox motion picture Miracle on 34th Street. NOV. 29, 30, & DEC. 1 AT 7PM & DEC. 1 AT 3PM & DEC. 2 AT 2PM in Leason Sharpe Hall Barry Community Enrichment Center 231 South Broadway, Hastings Tickets are $8 for adults and $6 for senior citizens (62 and over) and students. Questions, call 269-945-2332 or 269 945 9249 ask for Doug Tickets available in advance Progressive Graphics All seats are $5 on Thursday for Dress Rehearsal ‘Miracle on 34th Street’ opens tonight The Thornapple Players will present the Christmas classic, “Miracle on 34th Street,” this weekend in the Barry Community Enrichment Center’s Leason Sharpe Hall. Performance times are Thursday and Friday at 7 p.m.; Saturday at 2 and 7 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Brian Reynolds will play Santa in the Thursday and Saturday afternoon performances, and John Merritt will be Friday and Saturday night. They will share the stage Sunday afternoon. Here, Susan (Julia McLean) meets Santa (John Merritt) as Fred Gayley (Chris Cote) and some of the elves (Alyssa Dipert and Tommy Johnson) look on. Santa Claus will be at the Barry Community Enrichment Center at 6 p.m. Saturday and at 1 p.m. Sunday before the shows. The Barry Community Enrichment Center is located at 231 S. Broadway, Hastings. For tickets, call 269-945-2332 or stop into Progressive Graphics on South Jefferson Street in Hastings. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 29, 2012 — Page 3 More than 400 turn out for Turkey Trot More than 400 runners and walkers wait in anticipation of the fifth annual Turkey Trot 5K on a foggy Thanksgiving morning near Camp Algonquin. Winners of the Family Division 11- to 17-year-old family division are (from left ) Mark, Tom, Jerry and Griffin Christensen. Thanksgiving Day started off on a healthy foot for 406 runners and walkers in the fifth annual Turkey Trot 5K at YMCA Camp Algonquin. The weather cooperated for the event with temperatures in 40s at the 8:30 a.m. start of the race, said Ryan Rose of the YMCA. Sponsored by the YMCA of Barry County, Pennock Health and Wellness and the Barry County United Way, the event provides a fun venue for families to be active with divisions for runners, walkers and all ages, he said. As part of the race registration, more than 500 pounds of food was received for the Barry County United Way Food Bank. Winners of the 2012 Turkey Trot 5K Run are Jacob Pratt and Brook Brenner. Winners of the 2012 Turkey Trot in the 10-and-under family division are (from left) Heather, Jonah, Brian and Allison Teed. Overall run winners were Jacob Pratt for the men and Brook Brenner among the women. Walking winners were Dylan Johns and Ashlee Rizor. Fifty families participated in three divisions to encourage all ages get involved, said Rose. Winners of the under 10 and under family division were Brian, Heather, Allison and Jonah Teed. Winners of the 11- to 17-year-old family division were Mark, Jerry, Tom and Griffin Christensen. The adult family Division was won by Jerry, AJ and Mitchell Singleterry. Winners of the adult family division are (from left) AJ, Mitchell and Jerry Singleterry. HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Friday, Nov. 30 — November Reading Club concludes; preschool story time enjoys dots, 10:30 a.m.; Taste of the Holidays Recipe Exchange shares holiday treats; Art at the Library gift show, 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 1 — Lego Club has an Adventure in Lego-land, holiday style, noon to 2 p.m.; pictures with Santa after the Christmas parade. Monday, Dec. 3 — Taste of the Holidays Recipe Exchange continues. Tuesday, Dec. 4 — toddler story time enjoys snowmen, 10:30 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30; genealogy club meets, 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 5 — 1st to 3rd Club has fun with Christmas, 4:15 to 5:15 p.m.; Library Book Club discusses True Sisters by Sandra Dallas. Call the Hastings Public Library for more information, 269-945-4263. Ashlee Rizor is the winner of the adult walking division. Call for Hastings Banner classified ads 269-945-9554 �Page 4 — Thursday, November 29, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Masked visitor State legislators looking to reform education – again Tery Holly of Lake Odessa snapped this photo of a backyard guest. Holly said she thinks the critter was ousted by hunters, since his usual haunt is across the nearby channel on Jordan Lake. He left by twilight the day she took the photo, and hasn’t been seen since. We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@jadgraphics.com. Please include information such as where and when the photo was taken, who took the photo, and other relevant or anecdotal information. Do you know? Christmas afloat The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us iden- Do you recognize these ladies (and one man in the left corner) who appear to be working on a float for the Christmas parade? Do you know where they are working? What can you tell us about this photo? tify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event to reunite the photos with their original clippings or identify photos that may never have been used. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@jadgraphics.com; or call 269-945-9554. The man in the white shirt in last week’s photo, ‘Amazing Grain,’ was reported to be Kenneth Kelsey, pictured with his brother-inlaw, Ronald Lehman, said Lehman’s brother Harold and Kelsey’s daughter Jean Long. Both said the pair were pictured watching wheat be unloaded at the grain elevator that once stood at the southeast corner of Michigan and Apple streets in Hastings. Long said her dad may have been bringing in a load of wheat, or he may have just stopped to chat with his brother-in-law. [The childhood memories of Kelsey’s widow, Dorothy (Lathrop) Kelsey, were published earlier this year in the Banner.] Keep your friends and relatives informed and up to date with all the local news from Barry County. Send them... The Hastings BANNER To subscribe, call us at: 269-945-9554 What do you think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the questions posed each week by accessing our website www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. Last week’s question: Santa Claus, himself, has already been showing up in some cities, just in time to promote this week’s popular “Black Friday” Christmas sales. Is it too early to be welcoming Santa Claus and the Christmas season? 100% 0% Yes No For this week: Last week, the Hostess company — maker of the iconic Twinkie — announced its liquidation after both management and union workers refused to make concessions. Will you regret losing this piece of cultural history? q q Yes No Now that the election is over, Michigan’s legislators are using the lame-duck session to deal with some momentous issues. Two bills that could drastically impact the education system may be up for consideration. House Bills 5923 and 6004 would change the way the state funds education by creating a student voucher system that would impose a statewide funding district, rather than the community-based system we currently use. According to experts, House Bill 5923 would create a new type of school that would operate like a charter, draining significant resources from local school systems. House Bill 6004 would put the Education Achievement Authority, currently operating in Detroit, into law and give that authority broad control over student education in every district and the physical use of all public school buildings. These are major changes that should be investigated and debated in public so Michigan taxpayers fully understand the impact these changes would have on local districts. They both may be acceptable legislation, but a short legislative session doesn’t allow enough time to fully understand the implications. Lame-duck legislative sessions can be the devil’s workshop. Current legislators don’t have the time to fully study legislation, but they still are allowed the opportunity to push through bills that would never have chance of passage under normal circumstances. Looking at the pending legislation, one might question, “are legislators looking for a way to improve the quality of education or are they looking for a way to weaken teacher labor unions?” For years now, Michigan legislators have been pushing the charter school movement as a way to solve long-term issues dealing with education. Michigan got into the charter school business in 1994 when it approved 12 charter schools. Since then, the numbers have grown to 277, of which for-profit companies control 75 percent of all charter schools. The surge was brought on when the state lifted restrictions on the number of charter schools that can be opened. And, if House Bills 5923 and 6004 are passed, it will open the floodgates to unlimited growth. Has the charter movement been so successful that the state should throw the public schools under the bus in favor of private operations? Or, have we allowed years of underlying issues to impact the way we operate our schools? In a Los Angeles neighborhood plagued by poverty and violence, an exceptional pubic school classroom called Room 56 makes a case for increasing standards. The fifth-graders inside Room 56 are largely from immigrant families, most live in poverty, and few speak English as their first language. Yet, they play Vivaldi, perform unabridged plays by Shakespeare, and go on to attend some of the finest universities in the country. It’s their teacher, Rafe Esquith, who helps his students achieve these accomplishments. How does he do it? In his book, Teach Like Your Hair’s On Fire, Esquith gives teachers and parents the tips, techniques, exercises, innovations and the vision that’s made him one of the most celebrated teachers in the world. In his classroom, Esquith teaches his students to “be nice and work hard.” His students voluntarily come in early and leave late. They learn to handle money with an in-class economic system. They read great literature, tackle algebra, take field trips all over the country and play baseball and rock ‘n’ roll. But most of all, his students are treated with respect and are challenged to engage in a world of ideas. In his book, Esquith states his concern with the deterioration of our culture. “We’ve created a culture that considers athletes and pop stars more important than research scientists and firefighters, making it practically impossible to develop kind and brilliant individuals. “Yet we’ve created a different world in Room 56. It’s a world where character matters, hard work is respected, humility is valued and support for one another is unconditional. Perhaps when parents and teachers see this, and realize that my students and I are nothing special, they will get a few ideas and take heart.” Should we expect the problems facing Michigan’s public schools to be solved by adding more charter operations? Or are we afraid to challenge our schools to be more innovative in a constantly changing world? Another success story is the Khan Academy. It’s a nonprofit education program with a goal of changing education for the better by providing a free world-class education system made available for anyone, anywhere. The academy’s resources are available whether you’re a student, teacher, home-schooler, principal or adult returning to the classroom to prepare yourself for the new workplace. The program is the work of MIT and Harvard graduate Sal Khan. Khan says that so far, over 41 million adults and children around the world have learned from his special videos last year alone. Experts confirm that Khan’s step-by-step programs and practice exercises, which can be tailored to a student’s rate of learning, could revolutionize the traditional lecture driven school instruction. Khan’s program emphasizes mastery of a subject. “If you barely understand pre-algebra, there’s no point in making the student take algebra [as is required in Michigan schools]. A core grounding in basics is fundamental,” says Khan. In his program, Khan uses instructive video programs to take students through the exercises, working with them until they fully understand the problem — before going on to the next level. He becomes their coach — keeping track of their progress while helping them progress through the tutorials until they understand the material. Khan says that his company has put a lot of energy into making sure that the Academy empowers teachers by giving them access to the data they should’ve had for years. “You’ll know instantly if a student is struggling in multiplying fractions, or if they hit a streak and is now far ahead of the class,” says Khan. Looking at the impact these two educators have on students, one might ask, “Is the problem charter vs. public schools or is the issue buried deep within years of mismanagement of the entire educational system?” One thing for sure, the debate is causing frustration throughout the system — rather than creating the kind of environment conducive for a great education. In a recent Banner article about former superintendent Richard Guenther, we acknowledged his gift of leadership. “He was a straight shooter, not willing to pass the buck to anyone,” said one of his former teachers. Another teacher said, “He didn’t want any other school in the state to be better than ours. So he set high standards for the school and staff — which set the stage for the way he guided his ship.” In the same publication, the lead article talked about the Hastings teachers heading to fact-finding with the school board over contract negotiations considered at an impasse. Across the state, school districts are in trouble due to state funding cutbacks, reduced enrollment and increasing costs. However, experts are cautious to admit that Michigan schools have been under attack for several years now by debating achievement with silly slogans and measurement systems that have done little to create a better climate for students to achieve in. For years now, “we’ve allowed good teachers and parents to surrender to forces that sap their potential excellence,” says Esquith. “The demons are everywhere. Those who care deeply often feel outgunned by apathetic or incompetent administrators and politicians. Which means that expectations for children are often ridiculously low — meaning a child’s true potential will not be developed.” This isn’t the time to add more competition to an ailing public school system with even more pressure over their financial viability. We didn’t get into this mess in a few months — it’s taken years of abuse and mismanagement of the system, so we should expect it will take some time to get it turned around. “Young people in these struggling districts need a financially sustainable education system for which it is possible for both students and teachers to succeed,” warns Gov. Rick Snyder. “They need a system that efficiently directs limited taxpayer dollars toward smart, researchbased efforts proven to help all students perform at dramatically higher academic levels.” Snyder goes on to say, “We must embrace profoundly different expectations of our schools, teachers and students. If we expect success, we must encourage them to thrive by providing a structure that shuns complacency and mediocrity.” In districts throughout the state, teachers find themselves frustrated with the system and parents over the results, while politicians look for a scapegoat to place the blame on a system that seems adrift from the reality that the system is broken. We should look to Rafe Esquith and Sal Khan for some of the answers to our quandary. The solutions won’t be found in a new funding mechanism for public education — it has more to do with setting higher standards, looking for innovative approaches and setting clear expectations of teachers, administrators and yes, parents because they play a major role in their students success. The Hastings school board and administration must find a way to set aside their differences and move on. We’re coming up on the halfway mark of another school year. Which means the current students have around five months left of the current school year to learn the material necessary to proceed to the next grade level. It’s imperative that we place our full attention on student achievement by looking for new and innovative ways to educate our youth. This won’t get done if we’re bogged down with contract talks that sap the energy needed for higher achievement. It’s in the best interest of the staff and our community that our district becomes solvent once again. Looking back, much of the staff, administrators and school board were all on board as the system began its financial decline and did little to avert the inevitable. Let’s all agree that there’s plenty of blame to go around, but now is the time to put aside differences and work together to solve our immediate problems so we can get back to the real work at hand — that of educating our students. Fred Jacobs, vice president, J-Ad Graphics �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 29, 2012 — Page 5 Sunfield woman stabbed at friend’s house IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV McCauley was among the finest serving in Barry County courts To the editor A great many individuals have served the greater Barry County community with little recognition and these are some of the people I kept in my thoughts Thanksgiving Day. One was the Hon. Patrick H. McCauley, mentioned briefly as follows in the most recent Michigan Bar Journal: “... of Kalamazoo died Sept. 12, 2012. He was born in 1921, graduated from the University of Michigan Law School, and was admitted to the Bar in 1954.” That’s it. A life on the bench of some twenty-odd years, having handled the trials and sentencings of hundreds, if not thousands, of individuals warrants two meager sentences in the gospel for Michigan lawyers. Judge McCauley is one of only six Barry County judges I had the honor of appearing before over some 13 years of work here as a prosecutor. McCauley was a visiting judge for Judge Richard Shuster. He was a good, honest, humble and humorous man. Judge McCauley was the closest judge I have ever known to the likes of the few other Barry County judges before whom I appeared — the closest one could ever ask of a perfect judge. Whatever your side or standing, you knew with Judge McCauley that both sides would get a fair shake. He would do his best with whatever was presented. And in the end, you, your client, the defendant and the People would feel as though they had been listened to and heard fairly. With Judge McCauley, whether it had been a few weeks or a few months since his last sitting in for Judge Shuster, he would remember something about most everyone he came in contact with, either on the bench or back in chambers, and make a point of asking after that person, and then actually listening to the response. Judge McCauley was an at least partially retired jurist when he would do his Barry County gigs, and could always be expected to talk about his “back in the days” time as a boxer — after the morning’s business was finished. Judge Patrick McCauley was a good, humble and honest man, with a quick smile and a kind manner. He served Barry County well and deserves to be remembered for his service, and for what he brought to our bench when he presided here. Shane McNeill, Woodland Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. A Sunfield woman who spent Monday night at a friend’s house in Lake Odessa was stabbed by a man who apparently was upset with the homeowner. Lake Odessa Police officers responded Nov. 27 to a 911 call at the Lakewood Mobile Estates, located just off Tupper Lake Street, for a possible stabbing. Officers found the 23-year-old Sunfield woman, who had been stabbed multiple times. The suspect had already fled the scene in his vehicle, said Lake Odessa Police Chief IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV Pizza order brings appreciation To the editor: Recently at my work, a man called and ordered a pizza. I knew nothing about him, other than his name was Jesse and he liked pepperoni, bacon and ground beef on his pizza. When he came to pick it up, he ran into an old friend who also had ordered a pizza. They started talking, and I couldn’t help but hear their conversation. Jesse was in the military and was getting sent to Afghanistan on a nine-month deployment. He also had a very young boy at home and, when he would return, his boy would be just over 1 year old. I didn’t get a chance but want to thank Jesse for what he’s doing for this country. (And I apologize for his pizza having no ground beef; we had run out.) Courtney Sheffer, Delton GET MORE NEWS! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Mark Bender. The suspect, 38-year-old Daniel Hank Surline of Grand Ledge, was arraigned Wednesday on charges of assault with intent to murder; home invasion, first degree; aggravated stalking; and domestic violence. He is scheduled in Ionia County District Court Dec. 10 at 8:30 a.m. The victim, Emily Faul of Sunfield, was transported by ambulance to Spectrum Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids where she is listed in stable condition, “The victim had no relationship at all with the suspect; she was obviously at the wrong place at the wrong time,” said Bender. “It is believed the intended victim was actually the homeowner who had a past relationship with the suspect.” Lake Odessa Police were assisted in the investigation by Michigan State Police, Ionia County Sheriff’s Department and the Lansing Police Department. City approves urban services agreement with Rutland twp. by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer After years of negotiating, the City of Hastings and Rutland Charter Township have signed a resolution allowing the municipalities to move forward with an urban services agreement. The resolution, approved unanimously by the Hastings City Council during its meeting Monday evening, was approved earlier this month by the Rutland township board. In his written communication to the council, Hastings City Manager Jeff Mansfield said, “We look forward to this final step in the process of developing and approving the agreements. These agreements represent the culmination of many, many hours of hard work by many well-intentioned individuals seeking to do what is very best for our collective community. They certainly represent a ‘win-win’ outcome for all involved.” The resolution approved by the city and township includes three components: First, letter of agreement defining the project in the Rutland Charter Township/City of Hastings Urban Services and Economic Development Agreement as consisting of water and sewer mains extended to the site of a new hotel being constructed in the township just outside of the city limits; second, the urban services and economic development agreement to allow the city to provide urban services to the initial service district, which will include the site of the new hotel and property owned by the township and east of that site toward the city limits; and, third, an escrow agreement placing the urban services and economic development agreement in escrow until the project is completed. In other business, the council: • Approved a request from Rick Plite of Kisscross Events for a variety of accommo- Call 945-9554 for more information. dations to allow the 2013 Founders/BarryRoubaix Killer Gravel Road race to begin and end in Hastings Saturday, March 23, 2013, and hold a street party, including a beer tent, in conjunction with the event. Plite estimated the event could draw up to 4,000 people to the city. The council unanimously approved a motion to allow plans for the event to proceed under direction of city administration. • Approved amendments to the city’s 201213 fiscal year budget to reflect changes in revenues and expenditures during the first quarter of the fiscal year relating to the continuation of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Brownfield Assessment program, due diligence regarding to the city’s possible assumption of responsibility for Riverside Cemetery, adjustments due to the Michigan Avenue bridge project, and the Library Fund for Operations and Capital Improvements. • Accepted the resignation of Timm Oyer from the Hastings Public Library Board of Directors. • Approved a motion awarding a bid for engineering services and water main construction projects to Williams & Works in an amount not to exceed $29,975, as recommended by Tim Girrbach, director of public services. • Passed a motion approving the following sales and purchases as recommended by Girrbach: a bid for the sale of the 1993 Ford Super Duty Dump Truck to Thornapple Lake Estates for $12,5000; the sale of the 2001 Chevy pickup truck to Knowlco for $7,501; the purchase of a 2012 four-wheel drive utility truck from Henkel Auto Group for $47,952, without trade-in; and, the purchase of the two four-wheel drive pickup trucks from Berger Chevrolet for $73,222, without trade-in. See us for color copies, one-hour photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits Know Your Legislators: State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. The Hastings Licensed / Insured / Local Call Scott 517-290-5556 • 877-448-1548 FREE Consultation & Estimates! ALSO EGRESS WINDOWS / MOLD REMEDIATION IT Tech Position available with a busy multi-physician practice. NextGen experience preferred but not necessary. Extensive computer knowledge a must. Applicant must be a self-starter and have knowledge in server management. Please send resume with qualifications to: Administrator 1761 W. M-43 Hwy., Ste. 1, Hastings, MI 49058 or e-mail resume to swales@eyeent.com Charles Franklin Hoffman A.K.A. Riggs September 18, 1984 ~ November 10, 2012 Charlie’s parents, Karen L. Lawrence and Dee L. Hoffman are in deep mourning in his unexpected death as well as Charlie’s four sisters and five brothers. Charlie passed away in Kentucky and the family is holding a benefit to help raise money to bring Charlie back to Michigan to have him put to rest properly. All donations will be used for transportation and burial fees. Please join the family on: 77572685 02710070 MONDAY-FRIDAY 9:00-5:30 SAT. 9:00-NOON Banner (269) 945-5182 1-800-420-9080 149 WEST STATE ST. HASTINGS www.millerrealestate.net Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... 77572310 Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov Hastings Banner, Inc. Saturday, December 1, 2012 1:00 pm - 10:00 pm • Delton Moose ® The A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Bonnie Mattson • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY, DECEMBER 2 11:00AM-2:00PM Host: Jess Webb 6235 OAKWOOD DR. 1. OPEN HOUSE! Come see this move in ready up to date home on Dec.2nd * 3 lots & deeded access to Guernsey Lake there is plenty to offer * Choice of Delton-Kellogg or Hastings schools! Call Jess @ 616-350-7948 ...........................................$110,000 Directions: Take M-43 to Guernsey Lake Rd. & follow the signs. 77564841 John Jacobs �Page 6 — Thursday, November 29, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Worship Together… 77572619 Area Obituaries ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Rev. Ryan Wieland. Sundays - 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Service; Sunday School and Nursery available during both services (Summer Schedule - Adult Sunday School: 9 a.m., Worship & Children’s Programs 10 a.m.) Youth Group, Covenant Prayer, Choir, Chimes, Praise Band, Quilting Group, Community Breakfasts and more! Call the church office at (269) 721-8077 (M/W/F 9 a.m.-12 p.m.), e-mail office@mei.net or visit www.countrychapelumc.org <http://www.countrychapelumc.org/> for more information SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 . HASTINGS ASSEMBLY OF GOD 1674 S. State Rd., Hastings, MI 49058 Phone 269-945-2285. Sunday morning service times: 9 a.m. with nursery and preschool available and 11 a.m. with nursery, preschool and kids’ church available. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Youth Pastor Eric Gillespie. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. New! Starting... Nov. 25... Worship Service 9:15 and Children’s Sunday School (ages 2 thru 5th grade). Worship Service: 10:45 a.m. & Children’s Junior Church (4 years through 4th grade). Junior and Senior High Youth Group 6:00 p.m., and several adult small group opportunities. Wednesday Mid-Week at 6:30 p.m.: Pioneer Club, 4 years through 5th grade. Adults: Marriage Enrichment Class, Women’s Prayer Group and a Men’s Bible Study. Thursday: Senior Adult (50+) Bible Study at 10 a.m. and lunch at Wendy’s, 11:30 a.m. Third Thursday Brunch at 9:30 a.m. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Sunday, Dec. 2 - Worship Service 8 and 10:45 a.m. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Dec. 2 - Jail Worship 1 p.m.; High School Youth Group 6 p.m.; Men & Women’s Alcoholics Anonymous 7 p.m. Dec. 3 - Women of Faith Dinner Outing 5:30 p.m.; Recovery Bible Study 7:30 p.m. Dec. 4 - Brothers of Grace Dinner Outing 6:30 p.m. Vision Team Meeting 7 p.m. Dec. 5 Wordwatchers Bible Study 10 a.m.; Advent Supper 6 p.m.; Advent Vespers 7 p.m.; Sarah Circle Christmas Party 8 p.m. Dec. 6 Clapper Kids Bell Choir 3:45 p.m.; Middle School Youth Group 5 p.m.; Grace Notes Bell Choir 5:45 p.m.; Stewardship Committee Meeting 6 p.m.; Adult Choir 7:15 p.m. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 945-2645, fax 269945-2698. Pastor Amy Luckey. http://www.discover-grace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot.com. Friday - 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday - 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday 4 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball. 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 Ronald H.D. Armbruster HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 8:45 a.m. Traditional Worship; 10 a.m. Refreshments; 10:45 a.m. Contemporary Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. Fiberglass Products 1401 N. Broadway Hastings Keith Buehler CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Minister Collin Pinkston. Phone 269-945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Lauer Family Funeral Homes Norval E. Thaler 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits HASTINGS, MI - Norval E. Thaler, age 87, of Hastings, passed away November 21, 2012 at Woodlawn Assisted Living in Hastings. He was born February 11, 1925 in Freeport, the son of John and Anna (Roush) Thaler. Norval attended Freeport High School, graduating in 1942. He honorably served in the US Army Air Corp. as a aerial gunner during World War II. After the war Norval worked at the Freeport Creamery. He was a co-owner of Freeport Supply Hardware in the early 50s until 1976. Norval was the Barry County Clerk from 1976 until his retirement in 1988. Norval and Norma were married on July 10, 1945. He was a member of the Freeport United Methodist Church. Norval held several Barry County government positions. He was a board member and volunteer for the Barry County Habitat for Humanity. Norval also served as treasurer for many organizations. He had many interests that included, hunting, fishing, golf, bowling, softball, playing cards, singing and travel. Norval was preceded in death by his wife, Norma on January 21, 2008; three brothers and five sisters. He is survived by his daughters, Linda (Joe) Alberding, Sue (John) Biermacher; grandchildren, Scott Wilcoxson, Collin (Heather) Wilcoxson, Sarah (Mike) Garcez and five great grandchildren. Funeral services were held Monday, November 26, 2012 at Freeport United Methodist Church, 175 Cherry St., Freeport. Memorial contributions may be made to Habitat for Humanity. Arrangements are by the Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings, please visit our website to leave a message or memory to the family. www.girrbachfuneralhome.net. James D. Cool FREEPORT, MI - James D. Cool, age 62, of Freeport, died unexpectedly on Wednesday, November 21, 2012 at his residence. He was born November 24, 1949 in Hastings, the son of James A. and Dorothy R. (Woods) Cool. He attended and graduated from Thornapple Kellogg High School. Jim was the manager of the Hastings Airport for more than 20 years. He loved aviation and also enjoyed hunting and mushrooning. He was a long time member of the Hastings Elks Lodge. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Rebbecca Reed and brother, Rodney Cool. Jim is survived by a son, Andrew Cool of Freeport; sister's, Rosemary Count (Ray James) of Delton and Lory Biermacher of Middleville and many nieces and nephews. Respecting his wishes cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions can be made to charity of one's choice. Arrangments are by the Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. Please visit our website to leave a message or memory to the family. FREEPORT, MI - Keith Buehler, of Freeport, passed away November 26, 2012, at his home, with his family at his bedside. Keith was born August 8, 1927 on the family farm in Freeport, the son of Forrest and LuVada (Karcher) Buehler. A top ten member of the graduating class of 1944 at Freeport High School, Keith was a dairy farmer and hardware service man at Freeport Supply, where he earned the title of Freeport's Fix It Man. Keith will be remembered as a jack of all trades, and an avid hunter and fisherman. He enjoyed bowling, playing cards with family and friends, and participating in tractor pulls at Freeport Homecoming Days. Keith excelled at softball, earning a membership in the Freeport Softball Hall of Fame. A former boy scout and 4H leader, Keith was a former member of the Freeport Historical Society, the Freeport Volunteer Fire Department and a life member of the Knights of Pythians. On January 17, 1948 in Lacey, Keith married the love of his life, Nyla VanSyckle, who survives. Other members of his family include their children, John (Barb) Buehler of Freeport, Bonnie (Armand) Ranguette of Hastings, and Jerry (Kimberley) Buehler; a sister, Betty Usborne of Freeport; six grandchildren; eight great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Keith was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Milton and sister-in-law, Joyce Buehler; sisters, Vivian Vierk and Velma Humphrey; a brother-in-law, John "Stub" Usborne Jr.; and a nephew, John Usborne III. A funeral service will be conducted at Beeler-Gores Funeral Home in Middleville, on Thursday, November 29, 2012, at 11 a.m., Chaplain Amy Young, officiating. Burial will take place in Freeport Cemetery. Memorial contributions to Freeport Historical Society or Pennock Hospice will be appreciated. Please visit www.beelergoresfuneral.com to view Keith's online guest book, or to leave a condolence message for Keith's family. BATTLE CREEK, MI - Ronald H.D. Armbruster, age 95, of Battle Creek, died Sunday, November 25, 2012 at the Good Samaritan Hospice Residence. Ronald was born, February 21, 1917 in Sanborn, MN to Fred J. and Mary D. (Dammann) Armbruster and was a 1934 graduate of the Sanborn Public Schools and was first in his class. Ronald came to Battle Creek in 1962 from Philadelphia. Ronald served with the occupational forces of the US Army in Japan until 1947. He began his studies in mechanical engineering at the University of Cincinnati and received his bachelor of science from the Illinois Institute of Technology in 1957. Ronald had been employed by the Ault & Wiborg Co. of Cincinnati, the Wright Aeronautics Co., Black Clawson Co. of Hamilton, OH, the Continental Can Co. in Chicago and Newark, the Baldwin-LimaHamilton Co., the Crown Cork and Seal Co. and retired in 1979 after 17 years of service for the E.W. Bliss Co. of Hastings, and then worked for the Vermont Marble Co. until 1982. Ronald was a past president of the Battle Creek Engineering Society, past president of the Michigan Engineering Society, a member of the Urbandale Planning Council, past Chairperson of the Battle Creek Alliance of Neighborhood Councils, a member of the Tau Beta Pi National Honor Society and a member of the First Congregational Church. Ronald held an engineering license in Ohio and held seven engineering patents. Ronald traveled extensively in his work, he worked in Russia, Poland, Germany, England, Australia, Africa, Japan, China, Mexico, France, Puerto Rico, Canada, Hawaii and South America. Ronald became a licensed pilot at the age of 79; he also enjoyed music and played trombone in a Big Band. Ronald is survived by his daughters, Judy Cottrell of Wyoming, MI and Debra Noha of Edwards, CO; a son, Ronald Bliss of Anchorage, AK; six grandchildren and three great grandchildren; a brother, Willard Armbruster, of South Dakota and many loving nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Helen M. Cummins, in 1968 and Ella A. Tyler, in 1992, and brothers, Morris and Floyd Armbruster. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Thursday, November 29, 2012, at the Bachman Hebble Funeral Service, 223 N. Bedford Rd., Battle Creek. Memorials may be given to the First Congregational Church or the Good Samaritan Hospice. Please visit Ronald’s web page at www.bachmanhebble.com. Spetoskey helps Davenport to first National Tournament With a team made up almost entirely of players from West Michigan, Davenport University’s Women’s Volleyball team made its first appearance in the NAIA National Tournament Nov. 17. Sophomore Lexie Spetoskey, a 2011 Lakewood High School graduate, stepped in as a defensive specialist this season for the Panthers. Soon after the Viking varsity team took part in the Class B State Championship, Spetoskey stepped on the court for Davenport in La Crosse, Wisc. Her and her teammates fell 25-22, 25-23, 25-12 to No. 21 ranked Viterbo University in the opening round of the national tournament. Spetoskey had 11 digs and a kill in the loss. Kelse Moon, the Panthers’ lone senior, led her team with ten kills and ten digs. Amber Getty, a Wayland graduate, had 29 assists for the Panthers. Nicole Chase from Caledonia had eight kills. It was only the third time all year that the Panthers fell in three sets. Davenport set a new school record with its 32 victories this fall under head coach Megan Lenhart. Spetoskey was second on the Panther team this fall with 184 assists and fourth on the team with 254 digs. Getty had 1,229 assists to lead the Panthers, and Chase had a team-high 343 kills on the season. Call anytime for Hastings Banner ads 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 29, 2012 — Page 7 Calley, lawmakers offer plan to reform personal property tax BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY by Gerald Stein NORTH N: 8 4 3 M: K 4 2 L: K K: A K Q 10 5 3 WEST EAST N: K Q 10 5 M: Q 10 6 5 L: 8 7 3 K: 8 7 N: A 9 7 6 2 M: A 8 7 L: Q 2 K: J 6 2 SOUTH: N: J M: J 9 3 L: A J 10 9 6 5 4 K: 9 4 Dealer: North Vulnerable: North/South Lead: KN North 1K 3K Pass East Pass Pass Pass South L 1L 3L ® West Pass Pass Today’s bridge column continues the bidders’ dilemma. To bid or not to bid is certainly the question on today’s hand. If you hold the East or West hands in today’s auction, would you be willing to jump in with a bid, or would you be willing to let the North/South team bid away to a part score, even though it sounds like they have a misfit? It is a dilemma. What are the options here? With North/South vulnerable, North opened the bidding with 1K with 15+ points. East, with a five-card spade suit, elected to pass, feeling that the spade suit was not that good for an overcall. Remember, East, you are only at the one level. South responded with 1L after East passed, promising at least four diamonds and at least six points. With only seven points, and having heard nothing from partner East, West passed with four hearts and four spades and seven points. North’s second bid of 3K promised at least six clubs and better than opening count of 12 or 13 total points. By this time, East should have awakened and smelled the coffee. It appeared that North/South were in the minor suits, struggling to find a fit together. Did East regret not having bid the one spade bid when the level was low and the danger was even lower? To bid now at the three-level would take a lot of courage. East, unfortunately or fortunately, passed again. With seven diamonds in his hand, South placed the contract at 3L, and all passed. West, on lead, had listened to the bidding and knew that the minor suits belonged to North/South. The majors must belong to East/West. A good logical approach provided West with the KN for his lead, the top of a sequence, promising the QN to his partner. With three small spades in the dummy, East signaled an encouraging sign with the 7N, promising something in his hand. When the JN fell from the South hand, however, West needed to change the next lead to a heart. Leading the second spade would provide a ruff for South, a chance to draw trumps, use the clubs to throw away all of the losers in the South hand, and claim 12 tricks. West saw the JN fall, and he wisely elected not to lead another spade to his partner, but to lead a heart to his partner’s AM, keeping North/South to 11 tricks and a part score of 150 points. Did East/West miss a tremendous opportunity to compete in this auction? Suppose that East had bid one spade as an over-call immediately after North’s 1K opening bid. While the spades were not spectacular, yet there were five of them, and there were other points in the other suits as well. Now South could have bid 2L if he dared. With just a long diamond suit, no fit in clubs, vulnerable as well, South might have passed. West, having heard the spade bid by partner East, knew enough to compete to the 2N level. Now the bidding had changed this hand considerably. Now East/West had found a nine-card spade fit, and if North had bid 3K, East would have bid 3N, probably ending the auction. Three spades in the East/West versus three in a minor? That is the question. While the East/West team had little chance of making three spades, yet they would have been extremely competitive, would have bought the auction, and would have taken away the minor suit misfit from the North/South team. Even if North/South had continued to bid, they would have found that they had to bid at the four-level, and it would have been highly unlikely that they would have bid to the five-level and game in a minor suit. East/West could have interfered with the bidding to their advantage, and even though they would likely have gone down one trick, it would only be a mere 50 point gain for the North/South team. There are times, especially early in the auction, that a one-level bid is a good bid. Your partner might have your missing cards for a Golden Fit in your suit, and you might steal away a bid that might have gone to the North/South team uncontested. Keep bidding in Barry County. ***** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) CRIMINAL DEFENSE PROBLEMS? Free professional consultation for the whole month of December! • Drunk Driving • Drug Charges • • All of Your Criminal Defense Needs • Put nearly 25 years of experience to work for you! 501 West State Street, Hastings, MI 49058 269.948.9400 06796137 Ray L. Girrbach Owner/Director 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 • 269-945-3252 Serving Hastings, Barry County and Surrounding Communities for 45 years •Traditional and Cremation Services •Pre-Planning Services •Large Parking Lot - Handicap Accessible •Serving All Faiths •Pre-arrangement Transfers Accepted Family Owned and Operated www.girrbachfuneralhome.net Republican state leaders outlined on Tuesday a plan they said would keep Michigan’s economy moving forward by reforming the personal property tax, though any approved changes would not begin until 2014. The PPT is imposed on job providers for their commercial, industrial and utility equipment. The 100-year-old tax poses several barriers to job creation and economic growth, according to Lt. Gov. Brian Calley, Senate Majority Leader Randy Richardville and House Speaker Jase Bolger who presented the plan. Both Calley and Gov. Rick Snyder have been at work on the issue with a bipartisan group of lawmakers and stakeholders to reduce the burden on job providers while minimizing revenue losses to local units of government, many of which rely on PPT revenue. Supporters of the plan include the Fraternal Order of Police, Police Officers Association of Michigan and the Michigan Professional Firefighters Union, said Calley in a press release made available Tuesday. The proposal does not impose a new tax. Reimbursement funding to local units of government would come from a portion of the existing Use Tax, which is paid on out-ofstate purchases. Losses to the state’s General Fund due to the redirection of a portion of the Use Tax would be made up with savings realized through expiring certificate tax credits. “This is a fiscally responsible strategy that helps to lay the groundwork for a more prosperous future,” Calley said. “It’s an excellent compromise that balances the tax-relief needs of job providers with the revenue needs of our communities and schools. Michigan has come a long way in the past two years but we’re not content. We must eliminate obstacles to growth like the PPT, so that more families can get better jobs. Reducing this unfair burden on job providers will attract investment and expand local tax bases. This is a critical step that keeps Michigan on the right track.” The plan proposed on Tuesday would provide reimbursement rates to most local units of government at 100 percent for police, fire and ambulance revenue losses and at a minimum of 80 percent for everything else. It also holds the school aid fund harmless and fully covers school debt, according to a press release from the governor’s office. “The PPT is a tax that punishes job creation while providing essential support for local governments,” said Bolger, R-Marshall. “We need to reform this tax so that we can attract the investments that will create new jobs for Michigan’s workers. “I realize many communities rely heavily on the support they receive from the personal property tax. That is why it is essential to pro- vide full replacement funding for police, fire and schools. Things that are worthwhile are rarely easy and this tax reform is no exception. The House looks forward to working on this package with the Senate and the Governor’s Office to take another giant step forward in improving Michigan for hardworking families.” Richardville, R-Monroe added his resolve that the Senate would offer its support. “Reforming the personal property tax has been at the top of the Senate’s agenda for quite some time,” said Richardville. “This is a tax that literally punishes our job providers for growth and expansion. In order to support our local businesses and attract new companies and industries to Michigan, we have to continue to eliminate obstacles to job creation. Reforming the personal property tax is the next logical step in the process of getting Michigan back to work.” Specifically under the proposal: • Beginning in 2014, all of a taxpayer’s industrial and commercial property within a local tax collecting unit will be exempt, as long as the combined taxable value of such property within the unit is less than $40,000. • Beginning in 2016, new eligible manufacturing personal property and eligible manufacturing personal property that was new in 2012-2015 would be fully exempt. • Beginning in 2016, eligible manufacturing personal property that was new in 2005 or earlier will be fully exempt. In each subsequent year, one additional year is added to the exemption until all existing eligible manufacturing personal property is exempt in 2022. • Eligible manufacturing personal property means all industrial and commercial personal property located on a parcel of real property if the personal property is used more than 50 percent of the time in industrial processing or direct integrated support. • Regarding reimbursement of lost PPT to local units and school aid fund, 80 percent of non- police/fire/ambulance personal property loss will be replaced by the state, except for those subject to the “no reimbursement” threshold. There is no reimbursement for locals whose exempt personal property taxable value is less than 2.5 percent of their total taxable value for all property. • Locals could levy a special essential services assessment on the real property of exempt taxpayers at a rate needed to replace all of the lost PPT revenue that otherwise would have funded police, fire and ambulance services from their general fund. • Taxpayers claiming the eligible manufacturing PPT exemption will have to pay the ESA. School aid fund and school debt PPT losses will be fully reimbursed, and reimbursement will begin in fiscal year 2016. • In order to reimburse the locals for PPT losses, a portion of the state use tax currently going to the general fund will be dedicated to reimburse locals for PPT revenue losses. The use tax will continue to be capped at 6 percent. • The state general fund and the school aid fund will be reimbursed for the loss of the Use Tax revenue by the savings on the certificated credits that are expiring. • The local use tax component provides a mechanism for distributing certificated credit savings to locals that is not subject to the annual legislative appropriations process. The proposal calls for levying a new “metropolitan areas” component of the existing Use Tax on a statewide basis to generate replacement revenue for PPT reductions. At the same time, the state component of the use tax will be reduced by the amount of the metropolitan areas component so that total state and metropolitan areas use taxes will never exceed the current 6 percent rate, which is constitutionally limited. Under the plan, about 1 cent to 1.5 cents of the 6-cent use tax will be used for PPT reimbursement. • The 6 percent use tax will continue to be paid by businesses and consumers in the same manner as under current law. However, a “metropolitan authority” will receive the revenue generated by the metropolitan areas’ component for distribution to local taxing units as replacement for reduced PPT revenue. • Local revenue will not be distributed by the state, but instead by a metropolitan authority with statewide jurisdiction. Funds generated by the metropolitan areas component tax will be funds of the metropolitan authority, and not state funds subject to the legislative appropriations process. • The change in the Use Tax will be “revenue neutral” and will not increase total state and local taxes levied in Michigan. The levy will require statewide voter approval before taking effect. • The metropolitan authority will distribute the metropolitan component tax revenue to local units as replacement for reduced PPT revenue. Initially, the replacement will equal 80 percent of the non-police/fire/ambulance loss. Over time, a growing percentage of the reimbursement will be based on the amount of industrial real property in the taxing unit. Social News BUSINESS BRIEFS • Hastings Manufacturing Co. was named Vendor of the Year by Engine and Performance Warehouse as announced by Performance Business Magazine. The award is presented to vendors who perform well in distributions/sales policies, pricing policies, inventory, returns, labor claims, office support and shipping/packaging, according to EPWI. Bob Kollar, CEO, and Tom DeBlasis, vice president of domestic aftermarkets sales, accepted the award at EPWI’s conference in Colorado. • Carla WilsonNeil, chief operating officer of Pennock Health Services, has successfully completed the requirement to become certified as a Fellow of the American College of H e a l t h c a r e Executives. Fellow status represents Carla Wilson-Neil both a history of professional achievement and an ongoing commitment to excellence in health care. Earning the FACHE credential involves fulfilling multiple requirements covering both academic experience and professional and community involvement. Once certified, candidates commit to continuing education, professional development and recertification every three years. • Maggie Coleman, board chair of Pennock Health Services, was recognized by the Michigan Hospital Association for successful completion of the Excellence in Governance Fellowship. The program guides Maggie Coleman individuals through the process of generating new thinking, developing advanced knowledge and enhanc- ing efforts as community stewards and leaders. Coleman has served on the Pennock Health Service Board of Trustees since 2003 and has served as chair since 2010. • Jeff and Bonnie Steinman and Nunzino Pizza of Hop Head Farms in Hickory Corners have received verification from the Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program for their farmstead and cropping systems. The Steinmans and Pizza worked with a local technician to become verified by adopting environmentally sound land management practices. Hop Head Farms has 15 acres of hops and a full processing center to service a network of growers in the surrounding area. • David Muilenberg and Jeffrey Keessen of Discovery Financial have been awarded the Accredited Investment Fiduciary designation, allowing them both to provide fiduciary advice to retirement plan trustees. Discovery Financial provides retirement planning to executives and business owners in a variety of industries with offices in Ada and Hastings. Betty Cappon to celebrate 88th birthday Betty Cappon will celebrate her 88th birthday on Dec. 9, 2012. To help her celebrate you may send her a card at 764 Wellman Road, Woodland, MI 48897. Marriage Licenses • Laurie DeDecker, RN, has received certification as a healer and as a trainer in energy medicine through the nonprofit Healing in America. She has opened WoodsEdge Healing practice serving Barry County. Josephy Tyler Sparks, Shelbyville and Stacy Lynn Howard, Shelbyville. • Hastings Orthopedic Clinic has been awarded the Joint Replacement Excellence Award by Healthgrades, Inc., a developer and marketer of quality and safety ratings for health care providers nationwide. The award recognizes hospitals and practices for superior outcomes in knee and hip replacement or resurfacing. GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! • Hastings City Bank has been recognized as a five-star bank by Bauer Financial Inc., the nation’s leading bank rating and research firm. A five-star rating indicates one of the strongest banks in the nation based on excellence in areas of capital quality, asset quality, profitability, and others. Hastings City Bank, established in 1886, has earned the five-star superior rating for the past 11 quarters. Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. �Page 8 — Thursday, November 29, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of EDWARD JONES Don’t take a ‘holiday’ from working toward financial goals by Elaine Garlock Sunday, Dec. 2, at 7 p.m. in the sanctuary of Central United Methodist Church, the chancel choir will present a cantata “Season of Wonders,” celebrating the miracle of Christmas. Soloists will be Carole Reiser, Lori McNeill and Tom Reiser. Organist will be Patricia Werdon. The director is Ginny Kruisenga. The public is invited. Refreshments will be served. A free-will offering will be taken to benefit the Lakewood Christmas Basket project. Sunday, Dec. 2, First Congregational Church will have hanging of the greens at the 9:30 a.m. service. Following the service there will be finger foods served in the dining room. On Wednesday, Dec. 5, there will be a soup supper at 6:30 p.m. in the dining room of First Congregational Church, next week, with soup, breads, crackers and desserts. Everyone is welcome to attend. John and Debbie Stassek of Bloomingdale joined other family members at the home of her brother for Thanksgiving. Thanks to the wonders of technology, they were able to talk with and see the faces of their two adult children on the West Coast. Downtown lamp posts are decorated with lighted wreaths, installed by village DPW workers. Many families took advantage of last week’s mild weather to put up outdoor Christmas lights. Several graves at Lakeside Cemetery are decorated; some even with miniature Christmas trees, complete with ornaments. Operation Christmas Child is a charity instigated by the Rev. Franklin Graham, of Billy Graham. Typical for a first year venture is for a church to fill about 20 shoeboxes with small gifts for an unnamed child. This year, a first, Central United Methodist Church filled 63 shoeboxes with socks, toys and more. Last year, 12 countries provided gifts for children in 130 countries. More than 8 million packed boxes were sent in 2011. We’re well into the holiday season now. And while the holidays are joyous, they can also be expensive. In fact, at this time of year, many people make spending decisions they end up regretting. But you can enjoy the holidays and still stay on track toward your financial goals by following a few simple guidelines, including the following: • Set a budget — and stick to it. Whether you’re buying gifts or hosting holiday parties, you need to establish a budget and not exceed it. The people to whom you’re giving gifts and entertaining do not expect you to dig yourself into a financial ditch on their account — and they wouldn’t want you to do so, either. • Compare prices. With some searching, you can almost always find less expensive versions of those gifts you’re considering. But a word of caution: The earlier you start hunting for bargains, the better your chances of finding good prices. • Watch for “after-holiday” sales. The best bargains typically appear when the holidays are over. While these sales may not benefit you this year, they can prove quite valuable if you decide to “stock up” on gifts for the next holiday season. • Don’t over-use your credit cards. Try to limit your credit card purchases over the holidays. If you must use a card, at least pick the one with the lowest interest rate — and do the best you can to pay off the card quickly. Over the last few years, Americans have actually done a pretty good job of lowering their household debt levels — and that’s definitely a movement in which you’ll want to partici- pate. Keep in mind that the higher your debts, the less money you’ll have available each month to invest for retirement, college for your children or any of your other financial goals. • Avoid dipping into long-term investments. If you find yourself coming up short when dealing with holiday expenses, you may be tempted to cash out at least a portion of your long-term investments. But this should be avoided, for at least two reasons. First, depending on the account you’re tapping into, you may face penalties, fees and taxes. Second, and perhaps even more importantly, you’ll be depriving yourself of resources you had earmarked for your key goals, such as a comfortable retirement. Of course, you may eventually be able to replace the funds you’ve withdrawn. But in the meantime, you’ve lost out on the growth potential these investments may have provided — and that period of lost opportunity typically cannot be regained. • Build a “holiday fund.” It might be too late for this year but, once the holidays are over, set up a special account for next holiday season. Even if you put in only a small amount each month, you’ll be pleased with how much you can accumulate in a year. Keep the money in a liquid, low-risk account — one that’s separate from any money you use for your normal day-to-day expenses. By following these suggestions, you may be able to take some of the stress out of this holiday season — and possibly even brighten all the other seasons of the year, too. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 33.15 +.59 AT&T 33.62 -.20 BP PLC 41.35 +.12 CMS Energy Corp 23.95 +.69 Coca-Cola Co 37.42 +.18 Eaton 51.05 +.80 Family Dollar Stores 68.94 -.42 Fifth Third Bancorp 14.54 +.06 Flowserve CP 138.76 +.53 Ford Motor Co. 11.10 +.27 General Mills 40.62 +.16 General Motors 25.01 +.08 Intel Corp. 19.93 -.32 Kellogg Co. 55.45 +.71 McDonald’s Corp 85.92 +.88 Pfizer Inc. 24.25 +.11 Perrigo Co. 102.20 +.28 Ralcorp 88.80 +17.68 Sears Holding 46.05 -1.81 Spartan Motors 4.56 -.05 Spartan Stores 14.50 +.42 Stryker 54.22 +1.22 TCF Financial 11.77 +.43 Walmart Stores 69.50 +.48 Gold $1742.45 +$10.85 Silver $34.04 +.92 Dow Jones Average 12,878 +.83 Volume on NYSE 643M -18M State News Roundup Bill would require law enforcement reporting I recently sponsored Senate Bill 132, which would require private security guards or private college security forces to notify a law enforcement agency when a crime is committed. This measure was introduced in response to an incident at Andrews University, a private college located in Berrien Springs, where allegedly on more than one occasion a campus security officer failed to report a criminal matter to the local police, although it was the unwritten policy of the college’s Department of Public Safety to do so at the time. Typically, the practice is for a college’s private police or security guard to report the Call anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads 269-945-9554 incidence of a crime to the local police; however, this procedure is currently not in statute; therefore, reporting by a private officer is not specifically required by state law. Another example of untimely reporting occurred on the campus of the University of Michigan. While on a break, a medical school resident found several files containing child pornography on a computer in a locked lounge where residents work in the pediatric emergency department. The resident met with her supervisors and hospital security officials, sharing what she had seen and showing them the computer. She also met with the general counsel’s office and told them about it. The matter was considered closed a few days after the report was made. Unfortunately, university officials waited another six months before reporting the incident to university police. This is a crime that should have been reported immediately, not swept under the rug only to surface six months later. We cannot have a Penn State situation occur in our great state. My legislation would not have prevented the incidents at Andrews University or at the University of Michigan. But if passed, my bill would ensure that when a crime is committed, it will be reported to law enforcement agencies that have the necessary training to do a proper investigation in a timely manner. ESTATE PLANNING by… A PROFESSIONAL ESTATE PLANNER done… LOCALLY WITH 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE If you have Estate Plan needs go ahead and go to seminars, talk to other attorneys and even listen to those fly by night, door to door salesman and then come in to a truly experienced estate planning and have all of your Trust and Estate Planning questions answered, even questions that you don’t know to ask. Be sure to ask if other estate planners are familiar with the new Michigan Trust code, the HIPPA Act, and new regulations that have a major impact on proper estate planning, and if their price includes funding, or if that is extra? To avoid costly probate fees, be sure to hire an experienced estate planner. Tromp Law has been specializing in estate planning since 1988 and is well versed on the impact of all new laws and regulations impacting current estate plans. After looking around, call or bring in this ad to… 501 West State Street, Hastings, MI 49058 06796139 269.948.9400 For a FREE comprensive estate plan consultation for the entire month of December Gun Lake Tribe’s latest revenue sharing payments exceed $8.6 million Tuesday, the Gun Lake Tribe announced details of its fourth revenue sharing payments to the state and local governments. The State of Michigan received just over $7 million while the local revenue sharing board received nearly $1.7 million. Revenue-sharing payments are distributed semi-annually under terms of the tribal/state gaming compact. The figures were calculated on electronic gaming revenues reported from April 1 to Sept.. 30. “Since the Gun Lake Casino opened under two years ago, the Tribe has shared over $27 million with the state, local governments, schools and many others,” said D.K. Sprague, chairman of the Gun Lake Tribe. “That does not include donations made by our charitable giving program. This is another example of the Tribe living up to its word; promises made, promises kept.” Under the compact agreement, the Tribe agreed to share a percentage of electronic gaming revenues with the state and local governments. The local revenue share is based on 2 percent of net win from electronic gaming devices, while the state payment is calculated on a sliding scale between 8 and 12 percent. A portion of the current state payment was calculated at 10 percent of net win. The state revenue sharing payments are dependent on the continued preservation of exclusive gaming rights within the Tribe’s competitive market area, as defined by the gaming compact, which includes the cities of Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo and Lansing, as well as the entire counties of Kent, Kalamazoo and Ingham, among others. The local revenue sharing board receives and administers the semi-annual payments. The gaming compact prescribes mandatory funding to local municipalities for costs incurred due to the operation of the casino; public safety services; and replacement of tax revenue. The board established bylaws to govern the distribution process. In accordance with those bylaws, other possible uses for local revenue sharing money include funding for schools and civic organizations. Gun Lake Casino opened in February 2011 and now employs more than 800 team members. The Gun Lake Tribe has now shared more than $27 million with state and local governments. Two-year study aims to aid in right-size planning The Michigan Historic Preservation Network and the National Trust for Historic Preservation have announced publication of “Putting the Right in Right Sizing: A Historic Preservation Case Study.” The study, prepared by Brenna Moloney NTHP and MHPN preservation specialist, outlines lessons learned during her two years working closely with the cities of Saginaw and Lansing, and makes recommendations for these and other American cities that are undergoing the rightsizing process. “Right-sizing is a term coined to enable planners, city leaders and the public to enter into a conversation regarding the changes needed in the shrinking city,” said MHPN Executive Director Nancy Finegood. At the heart of the issue was the need to shift from the long-practiced planning with an expectation of growth to the need to manage a city’s contraction. Whether done consciously or unconsciously, right-sizing poses significant challenges to historic preservationists, said Finegood. In response to concern over seemingly unchecked loss of historic building fabric, the NTHP and the MHPN in the fall of 2010 created a preservation specialist position in the cities of Saginaw and Lansing. At the time, both of the target communities were undergoing some form of right-sizing planning. At the end of the two years of developing close working relationships with both communities, Moloney prepared this document on the state of right-sizing. The case study is designed for use across numerous disciplines (preservation, planning, municipal governments, community development corporations) to aid in efforts to incorporate historic preservation principles into right-sizing planning. The experiences in Lansing and Saginaw are intended to contribute to the growing knowledge base of information related to historic preservation and right-sizing, said Finegood. The case study provides a unique perspective on the issue that insists not only on well-laid plans but also on community involvement at every step of the process. This case study, she added, is intended to serve as a preliminary guide for historic preservation planning and advocacy in other cities across the country. Electronic versions of the study are available on the MHPN website, www.mhpn.org. Development Corp. The office will help Michigan companies to research, identify and capitalize on market opportunities in a broad range of industry sectors across Canada. Snyder met with Ontario and Canadian government officials and key business executives Sunday to strengthen trade relationships and attract job-creating business investments. Concurrent with the governor’s visit, business leaders from six Michigan companies are in Canada this week meeting with prospective partners, distributors and buyers to increase export opportunities from Michigan to Canada. In addition to one-on-one matchmaking appointments, the group will receive customized market research, market entry strategy and business service support. The trade mission is being led by the MEDC. “Canada is an important and viable market with great demand for Michigan products and services across multiple sectors,” Snyder said. “This trade mission will open doors for these companies by helping them identify and enter into new relationships here.” The participating companies are B&D Cold Heading of Taylor; baabaazuzu of Lake Leelanau; IMECO Corporation of Iron Mountain; Prime Solutions Inc. of Otsego; Ralco Industries Inc. of Auburn Hills; and RSVP International Worldwide Logistics of Kalamazoo. Michigan is the top state in the U.S. for exports to Canada, with Michigan companies exporting $23.4 billion in goods and services to Canada in 2011. Michigan exports to Canada represent 46 percent of the state’s worldwide total. The state is home to 243 Canadian-owned companies that employ 22,500 Michiganders in 702 locations. Michigan strengthens relationships with largest trade partner The Michigan Department of Treasury is reminding shoppers that purchases made online are not tax-free during holiday season, or at any other time of year. Michigan’s use tax generally applies to transactions in which the retailer does not collect sales tax. This happens most frequently when an individual makes a purchase from online retailers, through mail-order outlets or television shopping networks that do not have physical locations in Michigan. When out-of-state vendors do not collect sales tax on purchases, under Michigan law, the purchaser is responsible for reporting and paying the use tax. Taxpayers can report the use tax annually when completing and filing their Michigan Individual Income Tax Return. For more information, visit www.michigan.gov/taxes and click on the Sales and Use Tax tab. Michigan’s use tax is calculated at the rate of 6 percent. Purchases subject to the use tax include appliances, books, clothing, computers, DVDs/CDs, electronics, furniture, and pre-written computer software. Gov. Rick Snyder Monday celebrated the grand opening of the Michigan Trade Office in Canada that will promote trade, tourism and cultural exchanges between Michigan and Canada. “The Michigan Trade Office builds upon the strong foundation we have with Canada,” Snyder said. “It will add to the level of service we can offer our businesses, strengthen our relationship on many fronts, and expand mutually beneficial opportunities for our businesses and citizens.” The Michigan Trade Office provides a physical presence for Michigan with office space and staffing provided through a collaborative program of the Great Lakes Council of Governors and the Michigan Economic Cyber shoppers reminded to keep receipts and report use tax �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 29, 2012 — Page 9 “Contrary to rumors being spread, the wiring for the incandescent and arc lights is so well insulated and safe that people can even touch them without danger.” Hastings Banner July 9, 1891 Electric service started by group here in 1891 The new LaBarge line went into operation Thursday afternoon, Dec. 12, 1901. The Banner of that date reads that: “Last evening 2,500 volts of electricity were turned on from the water power at LaBarge for purpose of testing it and everything was found to be all right. It is expected to turn on the full 25,000 volts this afternoon. Hereafter, we may expect a regular day current of electricity, which will be greatly appreciated.” Connect other communities During 1913, lines of lower voltage were extended to the village of Caledonia from the LaBarge plant and in 1916, lines of 22,000 voltage were extended to the villages of Woodland and Vermontville. Since then, service lines have been extended to Alto, Clarksville, Sunfield, Mulliken and a number of smaller communities. Gas service here came about 13 years after the first electric lines were in operation. In 1905, the city council granted Fred W. Freese and associates a franchise to construct a gas plant and supply gas service to the homes, business places and industries of the commu- nity. This plant was constructed where the gas holder and regulator station of the Consumers Power Company [mid-1950s] now stands at East Center Street. It was in continuous operation until gas transmission lines were extended here from Lansing in 1930 to serve Hastings and other communities in Eaton, Ionia and Barry counties. Work on the first gas plant, according to a Banner news story in the issue of April 27, 1905, began during the week of April 13 of that year. Work progressed rapidly, and by the end of the month, brick walls had been erected for a building 28-feet-by-70-feet. Eight generators were included in the equipment. Plans for the storage tank had to be altered when water-bearing gravel was hit at a depth of 13 feet (the tank was supposed to go 16 feet underground). When completed, however, the tank was 47 feet in diameter and had a capacity of 25,000 cubic feet. Began making gas Service apparently began about June 25, 1905, for the Banner of Thursday, June 22, 1905, states that: “After having spent a week in slowly firing the retorts until they were brought to a white heat, the Hastings Gas Company started Monday, the actual manufacture of gas. It will take a little time for their product to force the air out of the pipes but by the end of the week, they will be ready to furnish gas to customers. Several business places and some homes are being piped for gas, and many more expect to use it. Mr. Ott is well pleased with prospects and looks forward confidently to a good business.” When gas became available, it was used considerably to supplement electric lighting in homes. Early electric service was a bit temperamental. Storms often interrupted service for hours at a time. As the quality of electric service improved, gas lighting became a thing of the past. One of the first uses of gas in residential homes was for cooking. To help the transition, many firms offered combination gas and wood stoves for those who lacked full confidence in this “new fangled” invention. But here, too, gas service grew in favor and the family wood pile soon became a thing of the past. Gas plant sold Shortly after the gas plant was in operation, it was sold to the owners of the Hastings Electric Light & Power Company, and the combined reorganized as the Thornapple Gas & Electric Company. This new concern continued in operation until 1922 when it became a unit of the Consumers Power Company. During the past 42 years, there has been a tremendous local growth in both the gas and electric business. In 1914, there were 1,350 electric customers and 650 gas customers. Now the Hastings division serves 15,000 electric customers and about 5,150 gas customers. Present demands for both gas and electricity are far in excess of the capacities of the local electric and gas plants, which Consumers took over in 1922, but are readily met by means of Consumers’ interconnected electric and gas transmission systems. Interconnected network Power for Hastings now arrives via high voltage lines from substations in Battle Creek and Charlotte, and both of these substations are tied into the interconnected transmission network. The electric power Hastings now receives is thus derived from a variety of sources. The small steam plant that originally served this community was discontinued years ago. Many rural lines now serve farm homes in Barry County and more than 200 rural customers have the advantage of gas service. Some of the greatest changes in the way of the life here during the 100 years that have passed by since the Banner first hit Main Street, Hastings, have been brought about by the tremendous developments in connection with the use of gas and electricity. Snyder says adaptability is key to state’s energy, environmental future This water wagon was actually a big wooden tank on wheels used for spraying water on the old dirt streets of Hastings. This kept down the dust, but the spraying had to be repeated often in warm, dry, sunny weather. [Photo reprinted from Hastings Long Ago, Book C, by Robert Palmer] named were F.H. Barlow, A.E. Keneston and A.E. Dickerman. Among the stockholders were Dan W. Reynolds, Chester and Richard Messer, W.D. Hayes, Archie McCoy, W.H. Goodyear, A. Black & Son, Richard Doyle, P.R. Dunning, Thomas Henry, Hams & VanArman, William Kelly, D.E. Fuller, Albert E. Renkes, Phin Smith, S.E. Phillips, R.K. Grant, C.M. Weaver, J. Russell, C.W. Jordan, Hale Kenyon, T.S. Brice, J.N. Wichwire, L.E. Stauffer and S.E. DeGroot. This group proceeded at once with construction work on an area now occupied by the north section of the Barry County garage at 301 Court Street. No information has been found relative to the capacity of the original plant which operated by steam, or as to the original rate schedule for private, use or as to the number of customers served during the first few years. Rumors are squelched Apparently there was some nervousness over the appearance of wire and poles in the city limits, because a Banner article of July 9, 1891, assured people that “Contrary to rumors being spread, the wiring for the incandescent and arc lights is so well insulated and safe that people can even touch them without danger.” The first complications of the scientific age had appeared. The Banner contains no record of when the new plant began operations. It must have been delivering current successfully during the later months of 1891, however, because the city council began investigating the feasibility of electric lights for city streets in late November of that year and eventually authorized the first contract on Jan. 12, 1892. First payment of a city electric light bill was noted in the council proceedings of March 11, 1892, when $8.80 was authorized to the Hastings Electric Light & Power Company. Reorganize company In 1901, there was a reorganization of the company with plans to operate on a much larger scale. New financing was obtained and the new company erected a hydro-electric plant on the Thornapple River about three miles north and east of Caledonia. This was known as the LaBarge Hydro-Electric station. It is now one of the inter-connected generating stations owned by the Consumers Power Company. The original capacity of 400 kilowatts has jumped to 700 kilowatts. [The LaBarge dam on 84th Street, Caledonia, is still in operation in 2012. That, along with similar plants in Middleville and Irving, are owned by Commonwealth Power Company of Concord, Calif.] Simultaneously with the construction of the hydro-electric plant, a 22,000-volt transmission line was built from LaBarge through Middleville to Hastings, where it inter-connected with the little steam plant that at this time (1901) had a capacity of about 200 kilowatts. Soon afterward the transmission line was extended to Nashville and Lake Odessa. This 22,000-volt transmission line was one of the first in this part of the country to carry so high a voltage. or on the road. This challenge has and will only grow over time. Michigan needs to take action to ensure reliability is an area of strength for all of our state today and in the future.” Affordability — “Michigan’s energy needs to come at an affordable price to our businesses and homes, yet our electricity prices are the highest in the Midwest, and most of the U.S. enjoys lower prices. The economy and stiff federal requirements have driven up costs, putting further strain on families and businesses. Having affordable energy is critical for all of Michigan. Environmental protection — “Energy choices must always recognize the responsibility to protect Michigan’s environment. Strict and comprehensive regulations on drilling and wastewater management work and many successful companies safely produce oil and natural gas while making sure Michigan’s waters remain clean. Protecting the environment is integral to Michigan’s energy future.” Based on those pillars, Snyder said efficiency, production, transmission and an overall comprehensive strategy are essential. An efficient energy system will accomplish the same or more while expending less energy, saving customers money and better protecting the environment, he said. Making sure enough energy is available will lead to lower costs and better reliability. Having an adequate means to store and distribute energy is also a requirement, Snyder contended, and partnering with the federal government on a national energy policy will help improve Michigan’s energy use. Energy-efficiency programs save on home and business energy use. Private financial institutions across the state will make more than $68 million available this year for efficiency improvements in buildings, and Snyder said more should be made available to increase savings. He said existing programs need to reduce paperwork and costs while increasing actual improvements by making smarter spending decisions on energy efficiency instead of on new infrastructure in high-demand areas. Snyder also called on the legislature to adopt a measure that would add energy efficiency information to home inspection reports. Increasing production and storage of natural gas and other energy assets, and using technology to revitalize aging systems, as well as developing new sources of energy and ways to deliver it are achievable goals. Snyder said a strategic natural gas reserve should be created for Michigan. The state owns many natural gas deposits, he said, and when private firms bring them into production, the state can either take its share in money or in natural gas. The governor said if the state owns gas, and the state owns storage, it could make sense to store that gas and sell it later at a better price. Environmentally, the governor said, Michigan must be strategic in making sure opportunities to enjoy Pure Michigan continue and grow. Snyder said reforming the way the state develops its environmental policies to a proactive, whole-ecosystem approach is what is needed to maintain and increase those See ENERGY, page 12 Fracking News As Michigan prepares to deal with the coming of massive shale energy fields that will be fracked, Michigan’s legislature is working on a bill that will among other things not allow your doctor to tell you what chemical is poisoning you if it comes from a fracking fluid. That’s right HB 5565 introduced April 24, 2012 by Lisa Brown will require the “health professional to hold that information confidential” to protect proprietary rights of the fracking corporations. The “Michigan Right to Know Law” is being ignored in this industry and many will suffer including our first responders who may be called to the scenes of accidents and spills. Emergency room nurse Cathy Behr in Durango, Colorado almost died from contact with fracking fluids. House Bill 5565 is currently in the Energy Committee of the Michigan House of Representatives for discussion. It requires the drilling companies to tell the DEQ what chemi- Vol. 2 cals they plan to use and that information will stay in the DEQ confidential unless written requests are made by health professionals who suspect poisoning. I ask, are they open 24 hours a day and how long will that process take? It means that the truckers carrying the fluids will not have the specific chemical information and the workers at the sites will not know what they are working with because the information will not be at the well sites. If your well is poisoned you will not know what to look for. House Bill 5565 seeks to legalize violation of the “Michigan Right to Know”, “The Michigan Firefighter’s Right to Know”, and “The Michigan Community Right to Know” laws to protect the gas and oil industry. Who has more rights in this State: large corporations or individual human being citizens? Join us in protecting Barry County State Land from this mess. MLAWD P.O. Box 335, Delton, MI 49046 Visit our website: www.milawdefense.org 77572704 The following undated article was likely from a mid-1950s Hastings Banner. Hastings began to modernize its lighting system in 1892. According to council proceedings for Jan. 12 of that year as published in the Banner, aldermen voted unanimously to install 12 arc lights of 2,000 candlepower each, distributed three to a ward. Current had already been available to homes and business firms for a matter of several weeks. Sign one-year contract But now Mayor Archie McCoy and Recorder John B. Roberts were authorized to make a one-year contract with the newlyformed Hastings Electric Power & Light Company at the rate of $75 per light, per year. According to the plan recommended by a special committee consisting of Alderman John Spence, W.S. Nelson, E.L. Sentz and Thomas Blinston, the lights were to be placed as follows: First ward: At corners of Michigan Avenue and Thorn Street; Michigan Avenue and Colfax Street and State Road and North Hanover Street (at that time, however, North Hanover from the Thornapple River to the city limits was called Elizabeth Street). Second ward: At the corners of State and Court streets, Hanover and Grand streets, and Walnut and Dibble streets. Third ward: Along Jefferson Street at State, Walnut and Clinton streets. Four ward: At corners of State Street and Broadway, Green and Market streets, and Green and Church streets. Twelve lights for the entire city wasn’t exactly a bold stroke – but even so, 12 lights were infinitely more than none at all – which is exactly what Hastings had before the council took action! Promoters cautious Although three electric power and light franchises had been voted by the Hastings City Council since 1888, results had been nil. Apparently the cautious promoters were never sure of an adequate return on their investment. However, the council on May 12, 1891, granted a franchise to Louis B. Bentley of Grand Rapids and his associates to construct a “suitable plant to generate, sell and supply electricity for light and power to the City of Hastings and the inhabitants thereof.” Included in the franchise was the right of the company to “use and occupy the streets, alleys and public grounds of the city for the setting of poles and placing of wires.” In return, the city was to have the option of light service at a rate not to exceed $20 per year for each 32 candlepower light and not to exceed $84 per year for each 2,000 candlepower arc light. Under those terms, the company was also to furnish the lamps, poles, wire and other material needed. Capitalized at $15,000 Apparently this new group was in earnest. At least the Banner of May 21, 1891, noted that on Wednesday of the previous week (May 13), “an Electric Light & Power Company, capitalized at 15,000 was organized with J.W. Bentley as president; W.F. Powers, vice president; Louis B. Bentley, secretary and B.R. Rose, treasurer. Directors Gov. Rick Snyder Wednesday delivered a special message on energy and the environment, calling for long-term, adaptable policies that ensure Michigan has the energy future generations need to thrive, while ensuring Michigan’s natural wonders are preserved and protected for years to come. The governor spoke from the W.K. Kellogg Biological Station in Hickory Corners, where he highlighted his vision for a comprehensive energy policy that safely and efficiently delivers an abundant supply of energy through a reliable infrastructure that is environmentally friendly. Snyder said keeping the air, water and land in Michigan clean and beautiful is essential to upholding the state’s 175-year tradition of environmental stewardship. “The reinvention of Michigan will not be complete without energy and environmental policies that make our state a place our children and grandchildren will still want to live, work and play,” Snyder said in a press release issued after the remote broadcast from the shores of Gull Lake. “We must pursue policies that can adapt with the times while still offering solutions that will provide a future for our kids.” Snyder said Michigan must identify adaptable solutions that will be good for the state not just in one possible future, but in many possible futures, and that opportunities exist for which action can be taken today without regret, despite any future uncertainty. In addition to adaptability, Snyder’s message highlighted three pillars of energy policy that every decision must stand upon: Reliability — “We all depend on having the power stay on: whether at home, at work, �Page 10 — Thursday, November 29, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE TO CREDITORS TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Patricia L. Burd, (date of birth May 10, 1928), Grantor of the Patricia L. Burd Living Trust dated September 5, 2001, who lived at 11250 Guy Rd., Nashville, MI 49073 died October 17, 2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the Trust will be forever barred unless presented to The current Co-Trustees, Anna Bender and Ronald Bender at 8800 Lacey Rd., Nashville, MI 49073, or to the attorney for the Trustee, Kathleen F. Cook, at 121 South Cochran Ave., Charlotte, MI 48813 within 4 months of the date of publication of this notice. Date: November 20, 2012 Law Office of Kathleen F. Cook Kathleen F. Cook P31842 121 S. Cochran Ave. Charlotte, MI 48813 06796222 (517) 543-7643 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Cora Lee Greenburg, an unmarried woman, original mortgagor(s), to World Savings Bank, FSB, Mortgagee, dated July 30, 2002, and recorded on August 13, 2007 in instrument 1085507, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Forty-Five Thousand Five Hundred Two and 23/100 Dollars ($245,502.23). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on January 10, 2013. Said premises are situated in Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 23, Supervisor's Plat of Long Point, as recorded in Liber 2 of Page 50, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 29, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #367213F04 77572639 (11-29)(12-20) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Bonnie Clark a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Great Lakes Mortgage Company, LLC, Mortgagee, dated May 21, 2003, and recorded on August 15, 2003 in instrument 1111025, and modified by Affidavit or Order received by and recorded, and assigned to Fifth Third Mortgage Company as further evidenced in a Affidavit Of Lost Assignment dated September 18, 2012 recorded on September 26, 2012 in instrument 2012-004994, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy Thousand Three Hundred Fifteen and 10/100 Dollars ($70,315.10). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on December 20, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 44 of The Andrews Addition to the City, formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 22, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #402153F01 77572515 (11-22)(12-13) SYNOPSIS HASTINGS CHARTER TOWNSHIP Regular Meeting November 13, 2012 Meeting called to order at 7:00 pm Pledge and roll call Seven board members present, 5 guests attended Approved October minutes & various dept. reports Appointed Library Board Representative Approved Salary Resolution 2013 2012 Budget Revisions Damages to Cemetery Rezoning parcels to Light Industrial 2013 Budget hearing 12/11/12 Approved payment of warrants Board member comments Public comment Motion to adjourn 8:19 pm Read full minutes on twp. website Respectfully submitted, Anita S. Mennell - Clerk Attested to by Jim Brown - Supervisor 06796365 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-26240-DE Estate of Sally Jean Barnes, deceased. Date of birth: 08/21/1935. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Sally Jean Barnes, died 08/11/2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Richard M. Delnay, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 135 E. South St., Hastings, MI 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. William M. Wright P23110 7077 N. Noffke Dr. Caledonia, MI 49316 (269) 945-6325 Richard M. Delnay 135 E. South St. Hastings, MI 49058 77572628 (269) 948-2165 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Donald J. Daldos and Janice M. Daldos, husband and wife as joint tenants, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated November 10, 2004, and recorded on November 23, 2004 in instrument 1137660, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Seven Thousand Five Hundred Sixty-Four and 35/100 Dollars ($137,564.35). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on December 20, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Baltimore, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel B: That part of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 14, Town 2 North, Range 8 West, described as: Commencing at the East 1/4 corner of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West 659.50 feet along the East line of said Southeast 1/4 to the place of beginning; thence South 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West 329.75 feet; thence South 89 degrees 41 minutes 11 seconds West 1306.24 feet; thence North 00 degrees 18 minutes 32 seconds East 329.92 feet along the West line of the Northeast 1/4 of said Southeast 1/4; thence North 89 degrees 41 minutes 36 seconds East 1304.76 feet to the place of beginning. Subject to highway rights of way for Charlton Park Road The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 22, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #413865F01 77572509 (11-22)(12-13) Keep your friends and relatives INFORMED! Send them The BANNER To subscribe, call us at... 269-945-9554 FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Kevin P. Purgiel, a married man and Nacole Purgiel, his wife to Fifth Third Bank (Western Michigan), Mortgagee, dated March 17, 2008 and recorded April 7, 2008 in Instrument # 20080407-0003797 Barry County Records, Michigan on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighteen Thousand Eighty-Five Dollars and FortySix Cents ($18,085.46) including interest 13.12% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on December 20, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot Number 1 and the West 52 feet of Lot Number 2 of the Aben Johnson's Addition Number 1 of the City of Hastings. Commonly known as 407 E Lincoln St., Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 12 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Fifth Third Bank, an Ohio Banking Corporation, as successor by merger to Fifth Third Bank, a Michigan Banking Corporation f/k/a Dated: 11/22/2012 Fifth Third Bank (Western Michigan) Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File 06795990 No: 12-71211 (11-22)(12-13) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF A MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on April 24, 2008, by Michael P. Scott and Laura A. Scott, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, given by them to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on May 12, 2008, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 20080512-0005083, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank by an Assignment of Mortgage dated August 23, 2012, recorded on August 27, 2012, in Instrument Number 2012-003840, Barry County Records, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of One Hundred Eighty-Eight Thousand Four Hundred Forty-Five and 38/100 Dollars ($188,445.38); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, January 3, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF CASTLETON, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: The North 436 feet of the West 500 feet of the Northwest quarter of the Northwest quarter of Section 12, Town 3 North, Range 7 West, excepting therefrom that part deeded to the Michigan Department of State Highways, as recorded in Liber 250 of Deeds, Page 531, and as recorded in Liber 250 of Deeds, Page 575, Castleton Township. Commonly known as: 954 N. M-66 Hwy, Nashville, Michigan 49073 Parcel Number: 08-05012-000-010-00 The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: November 23, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, 77572699 MI 48933 (517) 371-8253 (11-29)(12-20) STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-26248-DE Estate of Florence M. Girrbach, deceased. Date of birth: 01/02/1931. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Florence M. Girrbach, died January 5, 2010. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Timothy J. Girrbach, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at Ste. 302, 206 Court St., Hastings, MI 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 11-26-2012 William M. Wright P23110 7077 N. Noffke Dr. Caledonia, MI 49316 (269) 945-6325 Timothy J. Girrbach 102 Sherbrooke Ct. Hastings, MI 49058 77572637 (269) 945-3911 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Lena Thunder Aleman, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Charter One Bank, N.A., Mortgagee, dated May 5, 2005, and recorded on May 16, 2005 in instrument 1146513, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Four Thousand One Hundred Eighty-Eight and 19/100 Dollars ($124,188.19). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on December 20, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Assyria, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel in the Northeast one quarter of Section 34, Town 1 North, Range 7 West described as: Commencing at the Southwest corner of the West one half of the East one half of the Northeast one quarter of said Section 34; thence East 440 feet 5 inches for place of beginning; thence North 495 feet 5 inches; thence East 219 feet 7 inches; thence South 495 feet 5 inches; thence West to place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 22, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #410702F01 77572521 (11-22)(12-13) NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE STEPHEN L. LANGELAND, P.C. A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTENTION PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has occurred in a Mortgage made by Jason E. Gleason and Frances J. Gleason to Omni Family Credit Union n/k/a Omni Community Credit Union dated December 12, 2002, and recorded on December 18, 2002 at Document No. 1093911 Barry County Records. No proceedings have been instituted to recover any part of the debt, secured by the mortgage or any part thereof and the amount now claimed to be due on the debt is $76,734.93. The Mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the property at public auction to the highest bidder, for cash, on December 13, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., local time, at the East entrance, Barry County Courthouse, Hastings, Michigan. The property will be sold to pay the amount then due on the Mortgage, together with interest at 5.75% per annum, legal costs, attorney fees, and also any taxes or insurance or other advances and expenses due under mortgage or permitted under Michigan law. The property to be sold is described as: Located in Barry County, Michigan: A tract of land commencing at the SW corner of the SE 1/4 of S9, T1N, R7W; thence N 400 feet; thence E 300 feet; Thence S 400 feet; thence W 300 feet to the point of beginning. Which has the address of: 7543 Cox Rd., Bellevue, MI 49021. During the six months immediately following the sale the property may be redeemed, unless determined to be abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241(a), in which case the redemption period shall be thirty (30) days from the date of sale. Dated: November 12, 2012 OMNI Community Credit Union By: Stephen L. Langeland (P32583) BUSINESS ADDRESS: Stephen L. Langeland, P.C. Attorney at Law 6146 W. Main St., Ste. C Kalamazoo, MI 49009 77572464 269/382-3703 FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: James Shoebridge and Janice L. Shoebridge, a Married Couple to CitiFinancial, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 27, 2006 and recorded August 4, 2006 in Instrument # 1168134 Barry County Records, Michigan on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Nine Thousand Three Hundred Fifteen Dollars and Fourteen Cents ($99,315.14) including interest 6% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on December 13, 2012 Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots numbers 379, and the East one-quarter of Lot 380, of the City (formerly Village) of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded Plat thereof. Commonly known as 414 W Mill St., Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 11/15/2012 CitiFinancial, Inc. Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-70642 (11-15)(12-06) NOTICE TO BIDDERS BARRY COUNTY ROAD COMMISSION The Barry County Road Commission is offering for sale three 2012 GMC 1/2 ton Crew Cab SLE pickups. NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF RIVERSIDE CEMETERY COMPANY OF HASTINGS, MICHIGAN Sealed proposals will be received at the office of the Barry County Road Commission, 1725 West M43 Highway, P.O. Box 158, Hastings, MI 49058, until 10:00 AM, Monday December 10, 2012 for the following items. A special meeting of the owners, partners, members, and stockholders of Riverside Cemetery Company of Hastings, Michigan will be held on the 7th day of December, 2012 at Three o’clock in the afternoon at 231 South Broadway, Hastings, Michigan for the purpose of authorizing the transfer of Riverside Cemetery to the City of Hastings. October 29, 2012 RIVERSIDE CEMETERY COMPANY OF HASTINGS, MICHIGAN 1003 West State Road Hastings, Michigan 49058 77572165 NOTICE The minutes of the meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners held November 27, 2012, are available in the County Clerk’s Office at 220 W. State St., Hastings, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or www.barrycounty.org. 77572626 Specifications and additional information may be obtained at the Road Commission Office at the above address or at our website www.barrycrc.org. 3-2012 GMC 1/2 ton Crew Cab SLE pickups with caps 5.3 Liter 6 speeds 4 WD, Air, Cruise, PW & Locks, Keyless remote, Towing Package 1 Summit White, approx. 14,000 MilesMinimum Bid $24,000 1 Stealth Gray, approx. 25,000 MilesMinimum Bid $23,000 1 Silver, approx. 12,000 MilesMinimum Bid $24,000 The board reserves the right to reject any or all proposals or to waive irregularities in the best interest of the Commission. BARRY COUNTY ROAD COMMISSIONERS OF THE COUNTY OF BARRY Frank M Fiala, Chairman David D. Dykstra, Member 77572657 D. David Solmes, Member �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 29, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF A MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on June 11, 2004, by Jeffrey L. Noteboom and Diane M. Noteboom, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, given by them to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on June 17, 2004, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 1129483, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank by an Assignment of Mortgage dated February 29, 2012, recorded on March 8, 2012, in Instrument Number 201203080002412, Barry County Records, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of One Hundred One Thousand Five Hundred Fifty-Four and 56/100 Dollars ($101,554.56); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, December 13, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF HASTINGS, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: Lot 17 and the West half of Lot 18 of East-Mar-Heights, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats on Page 22, Hastings Township, Barry County, Michigan. Commonly known as: 1630 Boulder Drive, Hastings, Michigan 49058 Parcel Number: 08-06-225-017-00 The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: November 1, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933 (517) 37177572291 8253 (11-08)(11-29) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Pieter L. Boer aka Pieter Boer, a married man and Michelle M. Boer aka Michelle Boer, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Birmingham Bancorp Mortgage Corporation its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated June 15, 2007, and recorded on July 17, 2007 in instrument 1183038, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fifty-Two Thousand Three Hundred Fifty-Seven and 68/100 Dollars ($152,357.68). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on December 13, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner of Section 25, Town 1 North, Range 10 West, and running thence South 00 degrees 21 minutes 32 seconds West, 1063.95 feet; thence South 87 degrees 35 minutes 50 seconds East 690.44 feet for the place of beginning of land herein after described; thence continuing South 87 degrees 35 minutes 50 seconds East, 309.56 feet; thence South 34 degrees 59 minutes 27 seconds West 324.39 feet; thence on a nontangent curve to the right with a radius of 531.16 feet; a central angle of 18 degrees 11 minutes 32 seconds, chord bearing a distance of North 55 degrees 04 minutes 11 seconds West, 59.97 feet a distance of 60 feet thence continuing on a curve to the right with a radius of 185.65 feet, a central angle of 46 degrees 37 minutes 28 seconds, chord bearing and distance North 28 degrees 31 minutes 28 seconds, West 146.94 feet, a distance of 151.07 feet; thence North 05 degrees 12 minutes 34 seconds West, 70.01 feet; thence on a curve to the right with a radius of 159.28 feet; a central angle of 16 degrees 28 minutes 14 seconds chord bearing and distance North 03 degrees 01 minutes 33 seconds East 45.65 feet, a distance of 45.79 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 15, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #364848F02 77572328 (11-15)(12-06) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by David T. Gross and April I. Gross, as husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to SBC Mortgage, LLC, Mortgagee, dated December 10, 2001, and recorded on January 9, 2002 in instrument 1072786, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Chemical Bank f/k/a Chemical Bank and Trust Company as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Nine Thousand Nine Hundred Eighty-Five and 73/100 Dollars ($69,985.73). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on December 13, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Beginning at the Southeast corner of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 16, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, thence West 206.25 feet, thence North 206.25 feet, thence East 206.25 feet, thence South 206.25 feet to beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 15, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #404590F04 77572451 (11-15)(12-06) IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT 248-5021502. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Adam Howe and Holly Howe, husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns., Mortgagee, dated December 18, 2008 and recorded January 8, 2009 in Instrument Number 20090108-0000184, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Wells Fargo Bank, NA by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Nine Thousand Three Hundred Fifty-Five and 11/100 Dollars ($129,355.11) including interest at 6.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 12/13/2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Legal description: Township of Rutland, County of Barry, Michigan Beginning at a point on the East Section 11, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, distant South 00 degrees 18 minutes 52 seconds West 1906.22 feet from the Northeast corner of said Section 11; thence South 00 degrees 18 minutes 52 seconds West 478.22 feet along said East line to the centerline of West State Road; thence North 74 degrees 54 minutes 04 seconds West 104.71 feet along said centerline; thence continuing Northwesterly 330.11 feet along said centerline and the arc of a curve to the right, the radius of which is 764.48 feet and the chord of which bears North 62 feet 31 minutes 51 seconds West 327.55 feet; thence continuing along said centerline North 50 degrees 09 minutes 37 seconds West 184.50 feet to the East line of Hillcrest Road as shown on the Plat of Buenavista Heights as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats, Page 108; thence North 39 degrees 44 minutes 16 seconds East 104.16 feet (recorded as 71.13 feet) along said East line of Hillcrest Road; thence South 68 degrees 30 minutes 40 seconds East 75.00 feet; thence North 22 degrees 14 minutes 09 seconds East 3.93 feet; thence South 64 degrees 35 minutes 56 seconds East 44.67 feet; 52 degrees 24 minutes 41 seconds East 46.64 feet; thence North 35 degrees 20 minutes 00 seconds East 24.09 feet; thence South 58 degrees 26 minutes 57 seconds East 7.71 feet; thence North 32 degrees 40 minutes 03 seconds East 120.08 feet; thence North 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East 235.77 feet to the point of beginning. Subject to an easement for public highway purposes over the Southwesterly 33 feet thereof for West State Road. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: November 15, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 326.9994 (11-15)(12-06) 77572492 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Robin Clemens and Timothy J. Clemens, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Beneficial Michigan Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 7, 2005, and recorded on January 10, 2005 in instrument 1139992, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fourteen Thousand Two Hundred Three and 85/100 Dollars ($114,203.85). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on December 13, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 9 and Lot 10, Block 12 of Daniel Striker's Addition except the West 1/2 of Lot 9, according to the recorded Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats of Page 11. Subject to easements, building and use restrictions of record. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 15, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #413940F01 77572434 (11-15)(12-06) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by James W. Warner Jr, a/k/a Jim Warner a single man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated March 12, 2008, and recorded on March 20, 2008 in instrument 20080320-003150, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Nine Thousand Two Hundred SixtyTwo and 58/100 Dollars ($99,262.58). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on December 13, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Beginning At A Point On The EastWest Line Of Section 18, Town 2 North, Range 10 West, Orangeville Township, Barry County, Michigan; Distant North 89 Degrees 59 Minutes East 907.74 Feet From The West 1/4 Post Of Said Section 18; Thence Continuing North 89 Degrees 59 Minutes East Along Said 1/4 Line 239.22 Feet; Thence South 00 Degree 47 Minutes 10 Seconds East 160.00 Feet To The East Line Of The West Fractional 1/2 Of The Southwest 14 Of Said Section 18: Thence South 89 Degrees 59 Minutes West 140.00 Feet; Thence South 00 Degrees 47 Minutes 10 Seconds East 30.00 Feet; Thence South 89 Degrees 59 Minutes West 125.00 Feet: Thence North 00 Degrees 47 Minutes 10 Seconds West 89.68 Feet; Thence North 89 Degrees 59 Minutes East 25.78 Feet; Thence North 00 Degrees 47 Minutes 10 Seconds West 100.32 Feet To The Place Of Beginning. Subject To Easement For Public Highway Purposes Over The Northerly 33 Feet Thereof For Saddler Road And The Easterly 33 Feet Thereof For Dennison Road. Beginning At A Point On East-West 1/4 Line, Section 18, Town 2 North, Range 10 West Distant North 89 Degrees 59 Minutes 00 Seconds East 660.00' From The West 1/4 Post Said Section 18, Thence Continuing North 89 Degrees 59 Minutes 00 Seconds East Along Said 1/4 Line 486.96, Thence South 00 Degrees 47 Minutes 10 Seconds East 238.46', Thence North 89 Degrees 59 Minutes 47 Seconds West 165.00, Thence North 00 Degrees 47 Minutes 10 Seconds West 16.03, Thence North 89 Degrees 59 Minutes 47 Seconds West 323.41, Thence North 00 Degrees 24 Minutes 48 Seconds West 222.24' To Point Of Beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 15, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #414615F01 77572322 (11-15)(12-06) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Robert Frisbie and Terry Frisbie, Husband and Wife to HouseHold Finance Corporation III, Mortgagee, dated August 14, 2007 and recorded August 22, 2007 in Instrument # 20070822-0001177 Barry County Records, Michigan on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Ninety-Six Thousand Eight Hundred SixtyOne Dollars and Seventy-Seven Cents ($296,861.77) including interest 10.189% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on December 20, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That part of the South one-half of the Northwest one-quarter, Section 23, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, Rutland Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Beginning at the center of said section; thence North 89 degrees 49 minutes 30 seconds West 400.0 feet along the South line of said Northwest one-quarter; thence North 00 degrees 00 minutes 01 seconds East 1310.04 feet; thence South 89 degrees 37 minutes 30 seconds East 400.0 feet along the North line of said South onehalf, Northwest one-quarter ; thence South 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West 1308.64 feet along the East line of said Northwest one-quarter to the Place of beginning. Subject to highway right of way for Yeckly Road. Commonly known as 2520 Yeckley Road, Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 11/22/2012 HouseHold Finance Corporation III Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File 06795984 No: 12-71233 (11-22)(12-13) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Diana Marie Peters, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 10, 2003, and recorded on January 22, 2003 in instrument 1096042, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Flagstar Bank, FSB as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Fifty-Six Thousand Two Hundred Thirty-One and 43/100 Dollars ($56,231.43). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on December 20, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 69, Lynden Johncock Plat #1, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 93. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 22, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #402486F03 77572606 (11-22)(12-13) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by CARL D. MILLER and THERESA M. MILLER, husband and wife (collectively, "Mortgagor"), to FIRST FINANCIAL BANK, NA, a national association, of 300 High Street, PO Box 476, Hamilton, Ohio 45011-0467, dated February 27, 2006, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on March 7, 2006, as Instrument No. 1161010 (the "Mortgage"). First Financial Bank, NA, has assigned the Mortgage to CHEMICAL BANK, a Michigan banking corporation, of 333 East Main Street, Midland, Michigan 48640-6511 (the "Mortgagee"). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgagee is the owner of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Eighty-Four Thousand Nine Hundred Sixty-Eight and 78/100 Dollars ($84,968.78). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 10th day of January, 2013, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the Township of Carlton, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: A parcel of land in the Southeast one-quarter of Section 32, Town 4 North, Range 8 West, Carlton Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Commencing at the Southeast corner of said Section 32; thence North 89 degrees 53 minutes West 1320.4 feet; thence North 0 degrees 04 minutes West 1886.75 feet; thence West 550.37 feet to the Place of Beginning; thence South 175 feet; thence West 433 feet; thence North 28 degrees 40 minutes East 85.5 feet to the South line of Outlot A, Supervisor’s Plat of Bauer’s Resort; thence East 359 feet; thence North 100 feet; thence East 33 feet to the Place of Beginning. Except the East 33 feet for right of way, described as follows: Commence at the Southeast corner of said Section 32; thence North 89 degrees 53 minutes West 1320.4 feet; thence North 0 degrees 04 minutes West 1886.75 feet; thence West 550.37 feet to the Place of Beginning; thence South 175 feet; thence West 33 feet; thence North 175 feet; thence East 33 feet to the Place of Beginning. Together with all the improvements erected on the real estate, and all easements, appurtenances, and fixtures a part of the property, and all replacements and additions. Commonly known as: 304 Leach Lake Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058 P.P. #08-04-032-497-00 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys the premises at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee for damaging the premises during the redemption period. Dated: November 29, 2012 CHEMICAL BANK Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2487 (616) 752-2000 77572621 8723050-1 This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by DAVID A. GAIKEMA and MARY ELLEN GAIKEMA, husband and wife (collectively, "Mortgagor"), to SAND RIDGE BANK, an Indiana corporation, of PO Box 598, Schereville, Indiana 46375, dated April 23, 2004, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on April 28, 2004, as instrument number 1126578 (the “Mortgage”). First Financial Bank, N.A., a national association, of 300 High Street, PO Box 476, Hamilton, Ohio 45011-0476, was the successor by consolidation to Sand Ridge Bank, and subsequently assigned the Mortgage to CHEMICAL BANK, a Michigan banking corporation, having an office at 333 E. Main Street, Midland, Michigan 48640-6511 (the "Mortgagee"), pursuant to the terms of a Branch Purchase and Assumption Agreement dated May 11, 2006, and a Bill of Sale dated August 18, 2006, evidence of which will be placed of record prior to the date of sale (the "Mortgage"). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgagee is the owner of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Two Hundred Sixty-Three Thousand Three Hundred Forty and 96/100 Dollars ($263,340.96). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 10th day of January, 2013, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the Township of Yankee Springs, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: Lot 22 of Ritchie Woodlands, according to the recorded plat thereof; also commencing on the East line of Beatrice Avenue of the Plat of Ritchie Woodlands, 33 feet Easterly from the North lot line of Lot 22; thence Easterly parallel with said North lot line 100 feet; thence Southerly parallel with East line of Beatrice Avenue 50 feet; thence Westerly parallel with the South line of Lot No. 22, 100 feet to Beatrice Avenue; thence Northerly 50 feet to beginning, being a part of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 28, Town 3 North, Range 10 West. Together with all the improvements erected on the real estate, and all easements, appurtenances, and fixtures a part of the property, and all replacements and additions. Commonly known as: 2926 Beatrice Avenue, Middleville, Michigan 49333 P.P. #08-016-190-014-00 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys the premises at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee for damaging the premises during the redemption period. Dated: November 29, 2012 CHEMICAL BANK Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2487 (616) 752-2000 77572689 8730529-1 �Page 12 — Thursday, November 29, 2012 — The Hastings Banner SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN Expert answers questions regarding prescription coverage, children, visual impairment and more I need to make changes to my Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage. When can I do that? Open season for Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage runs from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7. The Medicare Part D prescription drug program is available to all Medicare beneficiaries. Joining a Medicare prescription drug plan is voluntary and participants pay an additional monthly premium. While you are looking at changing your plan, you might want to revisit the Application for Extra Help with Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Costs. If you have limited income and resources, you also may be eligible for Extra Help to pay monthly premiums, annual deductibles, and prescription co-payments. The Extra Help is estimated to be worth about $4,000 per year. To learn more, go to www.socialsecurity.gov/prescriptionhelp. For more information about the Medicare Part D prescription drug program itself, visit www.medicare.gov or call 800MEDICARE (800-633-4227). I applied for a Social Security card for my baby at the hospital, but the card came back with a misspelled name. What should I do? Find at least two original documents prov- ing your child’s U.S. citizenship and identity, as well as one proof of your identity as the parent. Then go to your local Social Security office to ask for a corrected card. The documents you show us must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. We cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents. To find out more, visit www.socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber. What are some of the documents Social Security will accept as proof of identity for a child? While you can use a birth certificate to prove age or citizenship, you cannot use it as proof of identity. For identity, we prefer to see the child’s U.S. passport. If you don’t have a passport, we may accept the child’s adoption decree; doctor, clinic, or hospital record; religious record (e.g., baptismal record); day care center or school record; or school identification card. We generally can accept a non-photo identity document if it has enough information to identify the child (such as the child’s name and age, date of birth and parents’ names). All documents must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. We cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents. To find out more, visit Banner CLASSIFIEDS Real Estate Card of Thanks For Sale HASTINGS GREAT ACREAGE 70 rolling, wooded w/stream. Private location to build custom home or cabin. Priced to sell!!! $280,000. Call Bill Sikkema 269-488-0576, Prudential Preferred Realtors. THANK YOU Many, many thank you’s to all the people and family who took the time to wish me happy 80th with a card or just stopped to tell me in person or taking me out to eat. You all made my day! Thank you again! Karl Frohlich AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is deceptive, fraudulent or might otherwise violate law or accepted standards of taste. However, this publication does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the quality of goods or services advertised. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made in any advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you ask for money in advance of delivery of goods or services advertised. ELIMINATE RISING FUEL COST- Clean, safe & efficient wood heat. Central Boiler Outdoor Wood Furnace. Heats multiple buildings. Call SOS your “Stocking Dealer” Dutton, MI (616)5548669 or (616)915-5061. In Memoriam IN LOVING MEMORY OF Myrtle M. Cuddahee 2/19/1938 - 12/2/2005 ClaraBelle Apsey 7/12/1914 - 12/24/2004 It seems impossible to believe so many years have passed since we lost both of you. So many things have happened in our lives and many more will take place but you both will be in our thoughts, our prayers and our hearts as we go on. Forever loved and missed so very much. Brian & Brenda, Brenda Gale, Cathy, Felicia, Glen Jeremy, Andrew, Dylan Azaria & Jaxson Estate Sale ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. For Rent WALL LAKE, DELTON: 2 bedroom apartment. References & deposit. No pets, 269-623-8218. Business Services PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. BASEMENT WATERPROOFING: PROFESSIONAL BASEMENT SERVICES waterproofing, crack repair, mold remediation. Local/licensed. Free estimates. (517)290-5556. Pets CHRISTMAS PUPPIES: CHIHUAHUAS born September 27th, $350. (269)9453525 Recreation WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are interested in leasing acreage for this years deer season. Call (269)795-3049 77564784 SAXON WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE Complete online schedule at: www.hassk12.org THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 29 WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 5 4:30 pm Boys Varsity Basketball Hastings HS Scrimmage H 4:15 pm 4:15 pm 5:00 pm 5:30 pm 5:30 pm FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30 Girls Girls Girls Boys JV Fresh. Varsity Varsity Basketball Basketball Basketball Ice Hockey Comstock Park HS/MS Pennfield HS Comstock Park HS/MS Warren Mott HS A A A A SATURDAY, DECEMBER 1 4:15 pm Boys Varsity Ice Hockey Bishop Foley HS 8:30 pm Boys Varsity Wrestling Lakewood HS Lakewood Scrimmage A A Boys Boys Boys Boys 8th A 7th A 7th B 8th B Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Kraft Meadows MS Kraft Meadows MS Kraft Meadows MS Kraft Meadows MS Boys Girls Boys Girls Boys Boys Girls Fresh. Fresh. JV JV Varsity Varsity Varsity Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Swimming Basketball Basketball DeWitt HS DeWitt HS DeWitt HS DeWitt HS South Haven HS DeWitt HS DeWitt HS Wayland MS Wayland MS West Catholic HS Wayland MS Wayland MS A H A H A THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6 6:00 pm Boys Varsity Swimming Byron Center HS A 6:00 pm Girls MS Cheer Thornapple-Kellogg MS A Times and dates subject to change A H H A The Chris Youngs Family supports the Saxons! H A H A A H A Go Blue! TUESDAY, DECEMBER 4 4:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:30 pm 5:30 pm 6:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm Basketball Basketball Ice Hockey Basketball Basketball Thanks to This Week’s Sponsor: MONDAY, DECEMBER 3 4:15 pm 4:15 pm 5:30 pm 5:30 pm 7th B 8th B Varsity 8th A 7th A HASTINGS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS Contact Nancy 945-2742 or hastingsathleticboosters@gmail.com to sponsor the schedule 06796325 5:30 pm 5:30 pm 7:00 pm 8:00 pm Boys Boys Boys Boys Boys What is the earliest age that I can apply for my Social Security retirement benefits? The earliest age to receive retirement benefits is 62, but you can apply up to three months beforehand. If you retire at age 62 today, your benefit would be about 25 percent lower than what it would be if you waited until you reach full retirement age. Even if you are not ready to retire, you still should sign up for Medicare three months before your 65th birthday. You can do both online at www.socialsecurity.gov/applyonline. What is Supplemental Security Income ? SSI provides monthly income to people 65 or older, blind or disabled, who also have limited income and financial resources. To be eligible, an individual also must be a U.S. citizen and resident of the United States or a noncitizen lawfully admitted for permanent residence. Some noncitizens, however, granted a special immigration status are eligible. To get SSI, an individual’s financial resources (savings and assets) cannot be more than $2,000 ($3,000, if married). For more information, read our publications, “Supplemental Security Income” or “Understanding Supplemental Security Income.” Both are available at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs. Are Supplemental Security Income benefits subject to federal income tax? No. SSI payments are not subject to federal taxes. If you get SSI, you will not receive an annual form SSA-1099 from Social Security. However, your Social Security benefits may be subject to income tax. Learn more at www.socialsecurity.gov. CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 National Ads www.socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber. LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Douglas R. Baker and Melissa M. Baker, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Washington Mutual Bank, FA, Mortgagee, dated April 27, 2007, and recorded on May 3, 2007 in instrument 1180067, and modified by Affidavit or Order executed on March 1, 2012 and recorded on March 29, 2012 in instrument 201203290003158, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Forty-Nine Thousand Nine Hundred Forty-Nine and 58/100 Dollars ($249,949.58). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on December 27, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the North 1/4 post of Section 13, Town 2 North, Range 10 West; thence South 89 degrees 44 minutes 37 seconds East, on the North line of said section, 1322.10 feet to the North 1/8 post of the Northeast 1/4 of said Section 13; thence continuing South 89 degrees 44 minutes 37 seconds East on said North line 774.23 feet to the point of beginning of the parcel of land herein described; thence continuing South 89 degrees 44 minutes 37 seconds East, on said North line, 547.87 feet to the Northeast corner of said section; thence South 00 degrees 32 minutes 18 seconds West, on the East line of said Northeast 1/4, 1322.90 feet, to the East and West 1/8 line of the Northeast 1/4; thence North 89 degrees 26 minutes 27 seconds West, on said East-West 1/8 line, 1325.07 feet to the North and South 1/8 line of the Northeast 1/4; thence North 00 degrees 40 minutes 03 seconds East, on said 1/8 line, 75.18 feet; thence North 87 degrees 15 minutes 02 seconds East, along an existing fence line and tree row, 811.90 feet to a point about 10 feet West of an existing fence line and tree row; thence North 01 degrees 03 minutes 05 seconds West, parallel with said fence line and tree row, 1208.45 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 29, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #329971F02 77572767 (11-29)(12-20) Do disabled children qualify for disability benefits? Two types of Social Security disability programs provide benefits for disabled children. Under the Supplemental Security Income program, a child from birth to age 18 may receive monthly payments based on disability or blindness if the child has an impairment or combination of impairments that meet the definition of disability for children; and the income and resources of the parents and the child are within the allowed limits. Under Social Security, an adult child (age 18 or older) may receive monthly benefits based on disability or blindness if the adult child has an impairment or combination of impairments that meet the definition of disability for adults; the disability began before age 22; and a parent of the adult child worked long enough to be insured under Social Security and is receiving retirement or disability benefits, or is deceased. Under both of these programs, the child must not be doing any substantial work. The child also must have a medical condition that is expected to last at least one year or result in death. Learn more by visiting www.socialsecurity.gov/applyfordisability. Does Social Security provide special services or information for people who are blind or visually impaired? Yes. Social Security offers a number of services and products specifically designed for people who are blind or visually impaired. For example, we make all our publications available in multiple formats including Braille, audio cassette tapes, compact disks or enlarged print. Also, most of our publications are available online in audio format. To get any of these products in alternative formats, contact us by going online to www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/alt-pubs.html; calling us at 800-772-1213 between 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday; contacting your local Social Security office; or mailing, calling, or faxing your request to Social Security Administration, Braille Services Branch, 6401 Security Blvd., L1141 West Low Rise, Baltimore, MD 21235, call 410965-6414 or 410-965-6407; fax 410-9656413. ENERGY, continued from page 9 opportunities. The functions and services ecosystems provide and the services residents want must be examined, he said, and data and knowledge must be used to guide decisions about what the state’s ecological and natural assets should be. “Our natural resources form the basis of life and the quality of life that define Michigan,” Snyder said. “Identifying our priorities and moving forward with resolve and purpose will help safeguard our precious resources while creating a better place for our families.” Land, timber and water management strategies that protect the character and productive capacity of natural resources must also be developed, Snyder said. What the state owns, and why, is a part of that land management. And with one-fifth of the world’s freshwater supply, Michigan’s water systems are central to placemaking efforts across the state, he noted. These resources impact all of Michigan’s economy as well as the lifestyles that Michiganders enjoy. “The timber industry is an economic asset to our state, especially in rural communities,” Snyder said, adding that there is opportunity to provide for responsible growth in this sector. He said a business plan will be prepared for the future of the state’s timber industry to identify and prioritize opportunities for growth. A timber industry summit will be convened next April in this effort. The Great Lakes are Michigan’s greatest natural asset, yet aquatic invasive species are increasingly threatening the ecosystem. Snyder said as the new leader of the Council of Great Lakes Governors, he will hold a Mackinac Island summit with the eight Great Lakes governors and Canadian officials to coordinate strategies to reduce the risk of new invasive species and ways to manage those already here so they do not devastate those precious resources. Trails are also an important contributor to Michigan’s quality of life and economy. Michigan has more total trail miles than most states, Snyder said, providing opportunity to make Michigan The Trail State. To accomplish this, the state must prioritize efforts to support and create trail connections. The governor called for the creation of a showcase trail from Belle Isle to the Wisconsin border that will team private and public trails into a signature Pure Michigan experience. Above all, Snyder said Michiganders should be reminded that ecosystems are all interconnected, and the best environmental solutions can solve more than one problem. “We are committed to reinventing Michigan and must work to support and enhance our efforts to protect our environment and ensure our energy future,” said Snyder. “With the help of both the Legislature and citizens, we will realize our full potential.” The entire Special Message on Energy and the Environment is available online at www.michigan.gov/documents/snyder. POLICE BEAT ‘Grandson’ arrested and needs money, twice Hastings Police spoke Nov. 20 to a couple who had received a telephone call from a caller claiming to be their grandson. He told the pair he was in Mexico. The alleged grandson said he had been pulled over by police in Mexico and needed $2,000 for bond. He said he did not want his parents to find out and asked them not to tell. The couple then wired $2,000 to the person they believed to be their grandson. They received a second telephone call, hours later, and were again requested to send $2,000 for an additional bond. The couple then wired the second $2,000, but soon after became suspicious and called their daughter and asked the whereabouts of their grandson. When they were told their grandson was home, playing on the computer, they immediately called the police. Baking biker stopped in street A 23-year-old Hastings man was stopped by police after they saw him riding his bike in the middle of a street without lights around 12:45 a.m. Friday, Nov. 23. He told officers he was just going home from a friend’s house. Officers asked the man if he had anything on him that he should not possess. He said he did not and gave permission for a search. The man then admitted to having a small amount of marijuana and gave it to the officer. He told police he was going to make “special brownies” for his friend and was arrested for possession. Homeowner reports suspected meth lab Hastings Police were visited Nov. 21 by a resident of West Grand Street bringing in what he believed were components of a possible meth lab in his home. He told police he had let a couple of friends stay at his house, saw some abnormal activity and found what he thought was the makings of a methamphetamine lab. He told officers he did not want meth around his wife and four children who were also in the house. Police met with a 26-year-old Hastings man and a 29-yearold Nashville man at the Grand Street home, where officers found an active lab. Meth lab components and a small amount of the illegal drug were confiscated, with help from by the Michigan State Police. The family was unharmed. Both suspects were arrested and remain at the Barry County Jail on $25,000 bonds. Hastings Police say this is the fourth methamphetamine lab recently located within city limits, and they encourage citizens to call police with suspected drug activity. Gaming system disappears while owner is hunting Barry County Deputies were called to South Main Street in Woodland Nov. 19 in reference to stolen video games. The homeowner said when he came home from hunting, his xBox 360 system, three controllers and 15 to 18 games were missing from his living room. The items are valued at $420. Deputies found no evidence of a forced entry. The man said no other items were missing from his home. The case is inactive pending additional information. Home repairs lead to argument, arrest Deputies responded to a domestic assault at a Bridge Park Road residence in Hastings Township Nov. 25 where a woman said she and her 32-year-old ex-husband were arguing over home repair and he started calling her names. The man began to leave the residence and the woman said she followed. She told deputies the man turned around and pushed her, causing her to fall. Then, she said, the man punched her in the arm before leaving the residence in his truck. Deputies contacted the man at his brother’s house. He told deputies during the argument the woman started throwing pieces of drywall at him, so he started to leave. She followed, kicking him in the shins and throwing pieces of drywall. He admitted to “slugging” her in the arm. The man was placed under arrest for domestic violence. The report was turned over to the prosecutor’s office. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 29, 2012 — Page 13 DK girls start strong against Allegan Delton Kellogg varsity girls’ basketball coach Mike Mohn takes a time-out to settle his team down after a forth quarter run by Allegan Tuesday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Delton Kellogg guard Brooke Martin (32) takes it strong to the hoop over Allegan’s Siera Ruffer Tuesday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) All-Barry County Corrections: There were a few mistakes in the 2012 Fall All-Barry County stories in the Hastings Banner Nov. 15 and Nov. 22. Three girls, Emma Anderson, Katie Beauchamp and Kourtney Dobbin from the Thornapple Kellogg/Hastings girls’ swimming and diving team should have been listed among the first team honorees on the AllBarry County Girls’ Swimming and Diving Team. Ronnie Collins, Chance Miller, and Jake Miller from Hastings and Thornapple Kellogg’s David Walter were listed among the first team honorees on the All-Barry County Boys’ Cross Country team, but their lists of accomplishments were omitted. Here are the entries that should have been included in the two stories. Girls’ Swimming & Diving First Team Emma Anderson, TK/Hastings: Anderson scored points in a couple of strokes at the 2012 OK Rainbow Tier II Meet. She was 12th in the 200-yard butterfly with a time of 1 minute 10.64 seconds and 14th in the 100-yard breaststroke with a time of 1:23.00. Katie Beauchamp, TK/Hastings: One of the top distance freestyle swimmers for the TK/Hastings team, Beauchamp was ninth at the OK Rainbow Tier II Meet in the 500-yard freestyle with a time of 6:12.75. A sophomore, Beauchamp also scored a ninth-place finish at the conference meet in the 200-yard freestyle with a time of 2:17.82. Kourtney Dobbin, TK/Hastings: The junior Dobbin was a part of the Trojan team that was second in the 200-yard freestyle relay at the OK Rainbow Tier II Meet. She also had a good meet in individual events, taking sixth in the 50-yard freestyle and eighth in the 100-yard freestyle. Boys’ Cross Country First Team Ronnie Collins, Hastings: The runner-up at the Barry County Meet, Collins hit the finish line in Middleville with a time of 18 minutes 18.6 seconds to end his sophomore season. Collins was also the Saxons’ leader at the OK Gold Conference Meet, finishing eighth overall in 18:23. Chance Miller, Hastings: Miller was one of four sophomores to finish in the top four for the Saxons at their Division 2 Regional Meet hosted by Carson City-Crystal. He led the team there with a 39th-place time of 17:43.0. He was third at the Barry County Meet in 18:28.8. Jake Miller, Hastings: Miller finished his junior season with a fifth-place time of 18:51.0 at the Barry County Meet, making him the third Saxon across the finish line there. Miller was the third Saxon to finish at each of the team’s last two meets, placing 61st overall at his team’s Division 2 Regional Meet with a time of 18:25.6. David Walter, Thornapple Kellogg: The Trojan junior earned a trip to the Division 2 State Finals for the first time this fall, placing 87th with a time of 16:39.1. Walter was the both the Barry County Meet champion and the OK Gold Conference Meet champion this season. He won the county meet in 18:15.0. Lake makes WHAC’s list of top frosh Chelsea Lake was among the six girls honored on the Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference’s All-Freshman team. Lake, a red-shirt freshman outside hitter for Cornerstone University, graduated from Lakewood High School in 2011. The Golden Eagles saw their season end with a 3-0 loss to Madonna in the semifinals of the WHAC Conference Tournament Nov. 10. The team could have used Lake in the conference tournament. She earned the AllFreshman honor despite missing the final five weeks of the season with a severe ankle sprain. The rest of the 2012 All-Freshman Team included Madonna’s Breanna Geile, Lourdes’ Michi Jimenez and Katie McKenty, Davenport’s Sidney Rodriguez and Siena Heights’ Carly Tillostson. “It was kind of fun to watch her grow up as a young lady and a young basketball player. I was pleased with that,” coach Mohn said. He also saw plenty of growth from junior point guard Sarah Rendon. Rendon finished with nine points, and teamed up with senior guard Rachel Parker to limit one of the Tigers’ top scoring threats. Blair Arthur led Allegan with 21 points. She knocked down four three-pointers. A strong night at the free throw line helped Delton stymie the Tigers’ second half charge. The Panthers were 9-of-12 from the stripe in the second half. TK girls score lopsided win on first night Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity girls’ basketball team opened the 2012-13 season with a 58-16 win at Kelloggsville Tuesday. The Trojans allowed the Rockets just five points in the first half, and scored 28 of their 58 points in the second quarter. Kelli Graham led the way for TK with 12 points and Victoria Fuller added 11. TK had ten different girls score in the contest. Crystal Smith added nine points, Molly Lark seven and Sydney Krol had six. Graham also had five steals and Smith four. Samary Givon, Kayla Shannon, Larissa Shumpert and Jennifer Stout had four points each for the Rockets. The Trojans play their home opener Tuesday against Ionia. Panther senior guard Rachel Parker draws a foul from Allegan’s Blair Arthur with a strong move in the paint. (Photo by Perry Hardin) BOWLING SCORES Sunday Night Mixed Comebacks 31; Street Bowlers 26; You’re Up N Shit 24; H20 23; Sunday Snoozers 22; Straightliners 21; The Heath Gang 14. Women’s good games and series - K. Becker 207-562; M. Daniels 214-551; M. Simpson 199-496; F. Ames 172-444; R. Hunt 151-354; A. Hubbell 182; J. Shoebridge 142. Men’s good games and series - E. Bartlett 215-591; C. Santana 240-571; C. Featherly 195-501; J. Craven 165-441; T. Santana 169; S. Jewell 160; B. Heath 153. Tuesday Mixed Barry Co. Red Cross 34.5; Hurless Machine Shop 34; Hometown Lumber 33; Boyce Milk Haulers 32; J-Bar Antique Tractors 21. High Game - D. Blakely 258; D. Benner 195; G. Hause 192; K. Beebe 191; S. Beebe 176; C. Featherly 169; B. Ramey 155; B. Norris 123. High Series - D. Blakely 622. Monday Mixerettes Dewey’s Auto Body 35-13; Kent Oil 32.515.5; Dean’s Dolls 32-16; Nashville Chiropractic 22-26; Creekside Growers 20.527.5. Good Games & Series: J. Alflen 175-510; J. Rice 200-563; L. Elliston 184; N. Goggins 160-445; S. Dunham 173; M. Rodgers 163; P. Shellington 138; S. Nash 146; D. Anders 155. 77572648 Delton Kellogg’s Kristen Mohn (21) drives baseline for a shot off glass over Allegan defender Corrie Wolthuis. (Photo by Perry Hardin) It was a good first win, and now the Panthers really need to get to work. Delton Kellogg’s varsity girls’ basketball team opened the 2012-13 season with a 55-41 non-conference victory over visiting Allegan Tuesday. The Panthers allowed just 12 points in the first half, and cruised to the 14-point win. “We came out of the chute really well, then got a little lackadaisical in that third quarter and let them reel it in a little bit,” said Delton Kellogg head coach Mike Mohn. The Panthers won’t get to be lackadaisical for a moment Friday as they open the Kalamazoo Valley Association season against Olivet. “We’ve got a lot of work to do tomorrow and Thursday,” Mohn said after Tuesday’s win. He did see plenty of good things Tuesday thought. Brooke Martin took charge on the offensive end, finishing with a team-high 16 points. Sophomore Kristen Mohn, coach Mohn’s daughter, stepped up and finished with 13 points and a team-high six rebounds. 77572646 77572644 77572650 77572653 77572655 Senior Citizens Sun Risers 33.5-14.5; Butterfingers 30-18; M&M’s 27-21; King Pins 26-22; Usedtobe #1 25-23; Three Gals & A Guy 21-27; Ward’s Friends 21-27; Just Having Fun 19.5-28.5; Early Risers 19-29; Kuempel 18-30. Women’s good games and series: N. Frost 154; E. Ulrich 170-466; B. Maker 172-459. Men’s good games and series: D. Murphy 139; G. Waggoner 188-522; R. Boniface 185500; W. Talsma 186-489; R. McDonald 236653; B. Terry 214-552; G. Bennett 153; K. Schantz 167. Wed PM Court Side 34-14; Hair Care 31-17; Boniface Construction 30-18; Eye & ENT 2622; Delton Suds 22-26. Good games & series: J. Shurlow 156; N. Potter 160; L. Elliston 179; A. Tasker 142379; Y. Cheeseman 157; E. Ulrich 220-526; B. Norris 119-336. Tuesday Trios Washking 41-11; Sam 35-17; CBS 32-20; Coleman Ins. 26-22; Look Ins. 25-27; Team Turkey 25-27; Classic Trio 24-28; Lu’s Team 23.5-24.5; Blair Landscaping 17.5-34.5; Ghost Team 0-52. High Game - Tammy D. 200; Donna 196; Renee B. 190. High series - Tammy D. 558; Donna 510; Linsey 507. �Page 14 — Thursday, November 29, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Defense helps Hastings rally late in loss at Otsego Lakewood senior Emily Kutch (center) is joined by her parents Stephanie and Carl Kutch as she signs her National Letter of Intent to join the Northwood University Women’s Basketball Program in the Lakewood High School Media Center Tuesday morning (Nov. 20). (Photo by Brett Bremer) Kutch follows state victory with basketball signing day by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Lakewood senior Emily Kutch went to the girls’ golf state finals as a freshman. She won a state championship with the varsity volleyball team two weekends ago. So naturally, she signed her National Letter of Intent to join the Northwood University Women’s Basketball Program in the Lakewood High School Media Center in front of friends, family, teammates and coaches last Tuesday. While even going to the state finals in two different sports is an incredible feat for a high school athlete, Lakewood athletic director Bill Barker and Lakewood varsity girls’ basketball coach Denny Frost made it clear that is not the only unusual thing about Kutch. Both mentioned that only about 1 percent of high school athletes will get any kind of a scholarship to play sports on the collegiate level. Frost said that the amount that get a full-ride scholarship, like Kutch, is maybe a tenth of that one percent. “It’s literally unheard of,” said Frost. Kutch is taking it all in stride. She’s excited to be getting back to basketball, but admitted that it’s been a little tough coming down from the high of winning a state championship. She said her first practice Monday was “a little shaky at first.” She’s known for a long time that basketball was the sport she wanted to pursue. “I’ve just been playing ever since I was a little kid,” Kutch said. “I just love to play it, play with the teammates, scoring those hoops, and then the atmosphere in the gym kind of gets your adrenaline going.” Once Northwood began pursuing her, she was sure it was a place she was going to love. “I felt most comfortable there,” she said. “I love the coaches and the atmosphere. The teammates I got to meet them, they were fun. The campus is really pretty. And, I wanted to go into business.” The Northwood coaches like her quickness and her length on the perimeter. Kutch averaged 11.6 points and 6.6 rebounds per game as a junior, earning all-conference honors in the Capital Area Activities Conference White Division for the second time. Her position has bounced around throughout her basketball career. She played in the post in middle school, but the Vikings needed her to play point guard as a freshman. She handled that task, and every other one thrown at her on a basketball court. “We are really excited about Emily signing with us,” said Northwood coach Jeff Curtis in a statement. “In fact, we were just talking last week that we wish she was here this year because she could help us right now. We are really excited about the youth of our program and the direction that we continue to head.” Kutch probably wouldn’t have minded being with the Timberwolves last week either. They were in Hawaii for the Oahu Classic. Kutch and the Vikings open their season Friday at home against Pewamo-Westphalia. Future Saxon Night will be held Dec. 1 The Hastings High School boys’ basketball program will host its 6th annual Future Saxon Night on Saturday, Dec. 1 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Hastings High School. Students in grades K-6 are invited to spend the evening with the basketball teams, with activities including basketball, volleyball, swimming, karaoke, and arts and crafts. Pizza, pop, and candy will be available for purchase. The cost per student is $5. OVER 20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE TRIAL & GENERAL PRACTICE The Saxons’ Rachel Quillen is bumped by Otsego’s Allie Thiel (right) and Amanda Metz (left) as she tries to get a shot up during the second quarter Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Hastings freshman center Maddie Dailey (right) and Otsego sophomore Sarah White tip-off the 2012-13 varsity girls’ basketball season at Otsego High School Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Saxons’ new style had its moments Tuesday. Steals by senior guard Taylor Carter and sophomore guard Grace Meade helped the Hastings varsity girls’ basketball team pull out of a 5-0 hole early in the season opener at Otsego High School. Full-court pressure defense also helped the Saxons dig themselves out of an 18-point hole in the second half against the Bulldogs. Hastings didn’t get all the way out of the hole though, falling 54-47 in the first game under new varsity head coach Andrew Mains. “It was a learning experience. I’m proud of the way the girls fought back. We were down 14 at half-time, and we only lost by seven I think it was,” Mains said. “I’m proud of the way we fought back. We’re young still. We start a freshman and a sophomore, so they’re learning how to play together right now. This is a good team. They’re going to win the Wolverine Conference. I grew up playing in that. There’s no doubt in my mind that they’re going to win that. This is like us playing a Catholic Central or South Christian.” It was a learning experience for the girls, and for Mains. He thought afterwards that maybe he should have gone to the full-court defense earlier in the second half. The Saxons started the game pressuring the Bulldogs, but after the Bulldogs’ Allie Thiel maneuvered the length of the court to put her team up 2012 early in the second quarter Hastings settled back into a half-court defense. Thiel was one of three Bulldogs in doublefigures. She had ten points. Shannon Nichols knocked down three threes and finished with 16 points. The Bulldogs also got 11 points from Sarah White. Carter and Maddie Dailey tied for the Saxon scoring lead with 16 points each. Meade added nine points and Rachel Quillen four. Dailey, the freshman starter, came up huge in her first varsity contest. She did an especially good job of setting picks on the perimeter and then rolling to the basket for open looks at the hoop. Hastings’ Grace Bosma (5) and Nicole Redman force Otsego’s Amanda Metz to turn the ball over in the back-court late in the first half Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Meade, the Saxons’ sophomore starter, was part of a solid back-court duo with Carter. “We’re extremely proud of how hard they’re working,” Mains said of Meade and Dailey. “Those girls both play AAU. They came to all summer weights, the summer track, the summer basketball so we’re extremely proud of the way they’re working together and the way they’re starting to develop.” After the Saxons’ early six-point run in the first quarter, but Bulldogs took control of the game back with Nichols and Kylie Hukill banking in three-point shots. Otsego led 1510 after one quarter, then pushed its lead to 28-14 at the half. The Bulldog lead grew to as many as 18 points in the third quarter, and was still at 17 points with five minutes left to play in the fourth before Hastings started whittling it down. Hastings heads to Comstock Park Friday, then will be at DeWitt Tuesday. The Saxons’ first home contest of the season is against Reeths-Puffer Friday, Dec. 7. www.tromplawoffices.com Hastings’ senior guard Taylor Carter dribbles past Otsego’s Shannon Nichols during the first quarter Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) SPECIALIZING IN: • Criminal Law / Traffic Tickets • Wills & Trusts • Divorce / Custody • Land Contracts / Mortgages • Foreclosures • Personal Injury • Bankruptcy • Drunk Driving • Estate Planning • Probate / Estates • Real Estate / Deeds • Collections • Corporations • Partnerships / LLC’s • Landlord / Tenant • Trial Litigation 06796135 GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! HASTINGS LAKE ODESSA Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. 269-948-9400 269-320-6008 877-596-1076 877-290-0715 Call 945-9554 for more information. 501 W. State Street Hastings, Michigan 49058 3619 W. Jordan Lk. St., Lake Odessa, Michigan 48819 e-mail address: tromplaw@cablespeed.com New Saxon varsity girls’ basketball coach Andrew Mains has a discussion with an official during the second half of Tuesday night’s season opener at Otsego High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-12-06.pdf deae99476e5632e1c7665d6af7d61031 PDF Text Text County-wide recycling option explored Raise taxes or cut spending? Winter sports teams previewed See Story on Page 9 See Editorial on Page 4 See Stories Starting on Page 15 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 48 NEWS BRIEFS Band, quintet presenting free concert Friday The Thornapple Wind Band will again be joined by the Coldwater Brass for its holiday concert Friday, Dec. 7, at 7:30 p.m. in the Hastings High School lecture hall. The Thornapple Wind Band will play some concert pieces, including “Moorside March” and “Exaltation,” as well as some holiday favorites, such as “Sleigh Ride” and “Greensleeves.” Also, for “Suite of Carols” by Leroy Anderson, the band will be split into a woodwind choir and a brass choir and each will play special selections. The Coldwater Brass quintet will perform “Gesu Bambino,” “We Need a Little Christmas,” “Christmas Time is Here,” “The Christmas Song” and “Deck the Halls.” For more information, call Mike or Kathy Scobey, 616-374-7547. Residents can meet new director Area residents will have a chance to meet Dr. Diana Newman, the new director of the Barry County Animal Shelter, Saturday Dec. 8, from 9 to 11 a.m. at the shelter. Newman will be available to meet people and share her vision for the future. “Please join us Saturday, and be sure to ask about the Home for the Holidays adoption event,” she added. The shelter is located at 540 N. Industrial Park Drive, Hastings. Open mic comedy night returning to Moose Lodge BANNER PRICE 75¢ Thursday, December 6, 2012 Commissioners approve forensic audit Recent suicides consultation into animal cruelty case are call to action by Doug VanderLaan Editor To some, the investigation into operations at the Barry County Animal Control Department smells like a rat. To Barry County Commissioners, who agreed Tuesday to consult with a forensic auditor on questions related to a Middleville woman whose foreclosed home and property was discovered last month to contain bags of dead dogs, the investigation may smell more like an onion. more technical review. That wasn’t enough for some commissioners, however. “I’ve had 25 to 30 calls since our last meet- ing about this (use of euthanasia drugs),” said Commissioner Don Nevins who later added, See AUDIT, page 6 “I’m not going to sit here and take the hit for spending money for a forensic audit, because we wouldn’t even be talking about this if the sheriff had done his job when he should have done it.” Commissioner Joe Lyons “It will be like peeling back an onion,” suggested County Administrator Michael Brown in describing how he envisioned the inquiry into determining if animals found on the Middleville property came from the county’s animal shelter and if some of the county’s euthanasia drugs had been used illicitly to kill the dogs. Marcie Tepper turned herself in to authorities last month and was given 10 days to arrange a court appearance for arraignment on animal cruelty charges. As of press time Wednesday, the arraignment has not taken place. Complicating matters has been Tepper’s status as a member of the Barry County Animal Shelter Advisory Board, appointed by Sheriff Dar Leaf who also made Tepper a special deputy advisor. Although he had provided two references for commissioners to consider as forensic auditors, Brown said he thought the county’s current financial auditors and new animal shelter director Diana Newman could provide an initial examination and then call in forensic auditing experts, if the situation merited a Secrets for Santa Claus Noah Lucas, 3, gets a chance to talk to Santa after the Christmas parade in Middleville Saturday. The Jolly Old Elf and some very able assistants have been spotted around the area in recent days, including at parades in Middleville and Hastings, as well as at Delton’s Hometown Christmas Tuesday. One of his next visits to Barry County will be the Christmas parade in Nashville Saturday, Dec. 15. (Photo by Julie Makarewicz) 2013 coming attractions: Hastings Spray Plaza The Hastings Moose Lodge will again host the standup comedy open- microphone Moose Chuckles event Monday, Dec. 10. Moose Chuckles is a free comedy show featuring everything from first-time comedians to professional comics. Doors will open at 8:30 p.m. Host Emily Allyn will start the show at 9 p.m. Moose Chuckles is the second Monday of every month. The Hastings Moose Lodge is located at 120 N. Michigan Ave. Guests must be 21 to enter. Non-members are welcome; no cover charge is required. Ball drop committee looking for vendors The planning committee for the fourth annual New Year’s Eve Community Celebration in downtown Hastings is extending an invitation to all nonprofit groups of young people or adults to participate in the event by selling refreshments or New Year’s Eve party items. Organizations must receive advance approval to participate. If interested, contact the planning committee for additional information by calling 269-8388407. Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 This site plan shows how the spray plaza and band shell will fill the vacant lot next to Hastings 4 Cinema. by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Coming soon next to a theater near you: a spray plaza for children and the young of heart to enjoy during the sultry days of summer and a mini-band shell to serve as a small concert venue. Monday evening, after holding a public hearing, the Hastings Planning Commission See SPRAY PLAZA, page 14 for Delton Kellogg Schools by David DeDecker Staff Writer Local and state data indicates Barry County has a higher rate of suicide than the state average, along with increasing rates of suicide attempts and threats called in to local law enforcement agencies. After four suicide deaths by current Delton Kellogg High School students or recent graduates, members of the Delton community and school staff realized something needed to be done, and they called in local experts to help. According to Delton Kellogg Board of Education member Marsha Bassett, the group has set goals to provide awareness to parents, students and residents to help them recognize suicidal thoughts and behaviors in their friends and loved ones and to provide tools, resources and courage to ask for help. The group is also looking to build partnerships within the region to address suicide-related issues and concerns. “We will need to seek grant funding for some of the larger programs we are considering, but with the alarming number of young people committing suicide in the area, we hope to find the resources needed to bring the necessary program into the school” said Bassett, who is also a parent and member of the district’s committee coordinating the suicide awareness and prevention efforts. Concerned citizens have met on several occasions, calling in experts, such as Judy Whitehurst from Gryphon Place in Kalamazoo, Dr. Cindy Cook from Calhoun Intermediate School District and Liz Lenz from the Barry County Substance Abuse Task Force, for input on the most effective ways to address the issues surrounding suicide. These efforts will include elementary, middle and high school students, staff and parents, who are learning the coping skills they will need in life. In an effort to take immediate effective action, Bassett said information has been developed for school newsletters and links and information have been placed on the home page of the school’s website, www.dkschools.org. The website contains information for students, parents and residents on signs of suicide and what to do if a person suspects someone is considering suicide. She said this is the first step in many efforts that are planned by the district. Plans are underway to expand the website, making it a meaningful source of research-based strategies to help those contemplating suicide and those suspecting others of taking their own lives. In order to educate the public, a parentcommunity night has been scheduled for Monday, Dec. 10, in the auditorium at the high school at 6:30 p.m. The evening will include several speakers and a panel of experts to answer questions. The program is free and open to the public, thanks to support of the Delton Area Rotary Club and Delton Parents Unite, a grassroots group of parents and students working to support activities and programs for young people of Delton. Consultant John Clement will present training in “Question, Persuade, Refer.” QPR is designed to help a person intervene with someone who may be considering suicide. Also speaking will be Michael Reiffer, a counselor from Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services, who is currently working on a part-time basis with Delton Kellogg students. Reiffer will present information on strategies to help parents raising teens and managing difficult emotions. He also will discuss the importance of developing interpersonal relationships as buffers against hopelessness, while giving parents tips to help develop children’s coping skills. The third speaker will be Judy Whitehurst, clinical director of Gryphon Place, who will present information about See SUICIDES, page 8 �Page 2 — Thursday, December 6, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Governor makes training center opening official Governor Rick Snyder cuts the ribbon to officially open the Bradford White International Technical Excellence Center. Pictured, from left, are Middleville Village Council President Charles Pullen, village council member Ed Schellinger (in back), Thornapple Township trustee Walt Eavey, Bradford White Executive Vice President and general manager Eric Lannes, Snyder, Bradford White director of technical services Dustin Bowerman, and Barry County Commissioner Craig Stolsonburg. by Julie Makarewicz Staff Writer Gov. Rick Snyder said Bradford White is a great made-in-Michigan story, and he toured the company’s new international technical excellence center Friday morning. The company officially opened the new center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and tours of the facility. Officials expect contractors, distributors and business people from all over the United States and Canada to visit and to train at the center. “This is a great made-in-Michigan story; it’s a leading-edge company,” said Snyder, who cut the ribbon along with Bradford White Executive Vice President and General Manager Eric Lannes and direcctor of Technical Services Dustin Bowerman. Located on Eagle Drive next to a cornfield in Middleville, Gov. Snyder said the training center is a shining example that business growth and excellence can take place anywhere in the state. “There are very talented people here and a talented workforce. Talented people continue to live and excel in this area and enjoy the quality of life here,” said Snyder. “The goal is to help companies find the best ways to be successful and create greater environments where jobs can flourish,” said Snyder of his administration. He said his office is working to find ways to support businesses, to help communities support businesses, to keep tax systems favorable for business growth and retention, and to allow businesses to be successful in the state. “These are great jobs and people here enjoy a great quality of life,” said Snyder, who reminded everyone that he spends a great deal of time in the area at his home on Gun Lake. Snyder got a tour of the facility and expla- nations of how the facility was constructed with energy-efficiency in mind. Bradford White builds all of its products strictly for wholesale distribution; company officials believe trained professionals should properly install and service water heaters. Bowerman said it’s a very unique facility offering visitors not only hands-on learning experiences with new Bradford White water heaters and technology, but also a facility that runs efficiently using natural resources like solar energy, and rain water to power the company’s needs. “This used to be just a pole barn,” pointed out Bowerman. “Roughly a year ago, we started on this project, and here we are today with a facility that will draw people from around the United States. This will really put Middleville on the map.” Bowerman spoke to a group of officials from the Village of Middleville, Thornapple Township and Barry County invited to the opening ceremony. Bowerman said the facility was intentionally built to inspire people to ask questions. From the state-of-the-art LED lighting, to tables in the dining area made from water heater parts and a trash can made from the outer jacket of a water heater, the facility makes visitors think outside the box. “Customers cannot escape what we do,” said Bowerman. “It’s an energy that’s all around them wherever they look.” The tech center classroom has seating for up to 64 participants. Bowerman said the smaller hands-on learning lab area is designed for groups of about 15. That allows participants to have about a 1-to-4 student to presenter ratio. The facility also features advanced technology to allow video conferencing and training Gov. Rick Snyder (middle) cuts the ribbon inside the Bradford White iTEC facility along with officials from the village of Middleville, Thornapple Township, and Barry County. for those who can’t make the trip to Middleville. Bowerman touted the facility’s use of natural resources, including a rainwater collection system that can collect up to 200,000 gallons of rainwater per year. Up to 30,000 gallons can be stored for irrigation and water needs within the facility. Solar panels help gather sunlight for energy needs. In-floor heating systems are throughout the facility. And outside, snowmelt systems are installed and demonstrated working under concrete, asphalt and stone. The building is in the process of earning Gold Leadership in Engery and Environmental Design, or LEED, certification recognizing its green initiatives. LEED certification is a green building rating system aimed to promote design and construction practices that increase profitability while reducing negative environmental impacts. The system offers four certification levels, with the Gold status being the third highest level. Bowerman expects more than 50 groups per year to visit the training center. Most classes will be from one to three days. The facility has about 18,500 square feet of usable space, including the customer support and tech service call center, which is staffed 24 hours per day, seven days per week. Bradford White makes all of its products entirely in the United States and provides support services within the U.S. “We’re very proud of being 100 percent American-made, and we’re very proud to be in Middleville,” said Bowerman. “People sometimes wonder where Middleville is, and we’re doing our best to let everyone know.” Bradford White Corporation is Barry County’s largest employer and one of the largest employers in the greater Grand Rapids area with more than 1,400 employees working three shifts. The company produces a full line of residential, commercial and industrial products for water heating, space heating, combination heating and storage applications. Gov. Snyder views the mechanical room of the facility with explanations from director of technical services Dustin Bowerman (right) and executive vice president and general manager Eric Lannes (middle). Bradford White executive vice president and general manager Eric Lannes (left) and director of technical services Dustin Bowerman (right) give Gov. Rick Snyder a quick tour of the training room within the facility. Gov. Rick Snyder talks with Village Council member Sue Reyff during his visit to the Bradford White center. LARGE or small, We Ship It All! 1351 N.Broadway (M-43) Hastings 269.945.9105 Officials from Barry County, the village of Middleville, and Thornapple Township take a tour of the facility. OPEN MON.-FRI. 8:30 - 5:30 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, December 6, 2012 — Page 3 Christmas season marches into Hastings BCN-Technical Services turned old press parts into holly-decked Christmas ornaments for the company’s entry in the 2012 Hastings Christmas Parade. The Hastings High School Marching Band prepares to play “Sleigh Ride” while marching through downtown Hastings. A clown from Hastings Cinema 4 Theater makes its way down the parade route on a tricycle. Children ride in a wagon pulled behind a truck carrying a vintage sleigh from Historic Charlton Park and Village. At Home Real Estate’s entry includes a Santa and Elf costumed characters. At Home Real Estate’s entry includes a Santa and Elf costumed characters. St. Nicholas waves to the crowds from the Emmanuel Episcopal Church entry. This float from Thornapple Valley Community Credit Union incorporates the lyrics from “Jeremiah Was a Bullfrog.” The parade’s theme is ‘Joy to the World.’ The Vermontville Maple Syrup Queen Megan Zank (right) and her court (from left) Shennondoah Fighter, Yulanda Sheridan and Gretchen Hakenjos, wave to Hastings parade-goers. �Page 4 — Thursday, December 6, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Raise taxes or cut spending to avoid fiscal cliff? ‘Blue Goose’ and more are stuffed for the holidays Michigan State Police Trooper Phil McNabnay and two young shoppers help “stuff the Blue Goose” with toys, clothing and food for area families Saturday. The children used a $100 gift card donated by Walmart to pick out what they thought other kids would want for Christmas. The goal of “Stuff the Blue Goose” is to donate enough food, toys and clothing to fill a MSP patrol vehicle. The donated items are then forwarded to the United Way of Barry County for families during the holidays. The Chevy Tahoe and a Dodge were filled to the brim. Did you see? The Ugly Duckling version 2.0 Tery Bailey of Lake Odessa was surprised when a family of mute swans that had been raised on the channel behind her house on Jordan Lake returned recently and she realized that one of the cygnets was actually a trumpeter swan. Mute swans, most easily identified by the knob on their heads, are an aggressive, invasive species, while the native trumpeter swans are on the state’s endangered species list. Bailey said all six of the young swans swam together since birth. “I was amazed that one never changed color. Turns out, it’s not a mute at all but a trumpeter,” said Bailey. Do you We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@jadgraphics.com. Please include information such as where and when the photo was taken, who took the photo, and other relevant or anecdotal information. know? Angels overhead Do you recognize any of these men or know why this photo was taken? Where are they standing? Although the angels above seem to indicate it’s Christmastime, the man on the right is wearing a short-sleeved shirt. That shirt seems to be bedecked with guitar images, so is he a musician? Or, are those ukuleles on a Hawaiian shirt? (Notice the disembodied left angel, the porcelain coffee pot and the pack of cigarettes on the table.) What can you tell us about this photo? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event to reunite the photos with their original clippings or identify photos that may never have been used. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Both. For months, especially since the election, Congressional leaders and the Obama Administration have turned their attention to the self-imposed fiscal cliff they didn’t want to address in the months leading up to the election. Now they have only a few days left in the scheduled legislative session to come up with a plan to avert a financial disaster or to agree to put it off again until sometime next year. In even more frank terms, the two parties continue to argue rather than work to find a reasonable solution to our economic woes. Republicans want to reduce the cost of government by controlling spending, while Democrats and the Obama Administration profess the problem comes from a lack of revenue and want to raise taxes on “the rich.” We must be mindful, however, of an important reality as this process unfolds. As officials look for new revenue sources, a number of benefits, if taken away, would negatively impact most taxpayers. Some are calling for taxing medical insurance benefits, eliminating the homestead exemption and increasing the death tax rates to bring in new revenue. If we look back, the best solutions to economic slowdowns have been found in a combination of raising taxes and cutting spending. During the recent election, seven of 10 voters said they preferred a combination of the two approaches: increasing taxes and cutting programs. The federal government reportedly now spends about 22 percent of the value of the nation’s gross domestic product per year while only taking in around 17 percent of GDP from taxes. Consequently, there’s no way we can get the deficit under control unless we do both. If social programs continue to grow and if we add a new national health care program to our country’s long-term debt, we must find an equitable solution to this fiscal crisis — sooner rather than later. In February 2008, I wrote an editorial that included comments by nationally syndicated newspaper columnist Charley Reese, who said that just 545 people are responsible for America’s woes. “One hundred senators, 435 congressmen, one president and nine Supreme Court Justices, for a total of 545 men and women selected from over 300 million American citizens, are directly, legally, morally and individually responsible for all the domestic problems that plague this country,” said Reese. Now this Congress wants to sidestep responsibility and wants us to accept the fact that the financial crisis needs a bailout to save our nation from financial insolvency. At no time did we see any leaders getting up on the table and yelling out. “We are headed for a crisis. We have the responsibility to protect the taxpayers from a financial meltdown. We must act now and save Americans from potential financial destruction.” As Reese said in his column, “Those 545 people, and they alone, are responsible for their actions. Their decisions are what got us into this mess in the first place.” Those 545 people, alone, still have the power to set us in a new direction. But now we, as taxpayers, must hold them accountable for finding solutions to these serious issues — even if it means they What do you Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@jadgraphics.com; or call 269945-9554. L a s t week’s photo of p e o p l e working on a parade float drew responses from longtime members of G r a c e Lutheran Church in Hastings. Sharon Bancroft and Shirley Beck said they recognized fellow parishioners in the photo that was likely taken in the garage of one of the Leary’s stores on East State Street (now Ace Hardware). They were creating the Lutheran church’s entry for the “Put Christ Back Into Christmas” parade in the early to mid-1950s. Bancroft and Beck thought that the woman sitting on the float is Carolyn O’Connor, the one on the bottom left is Louise Leary, and Matilda Trinklein is in the bottom center. They suggested that the man on the far left might be either Leon Corey or Jim O’Connor. Neither recognized the women on the bottom right. Beck remembered the time-consuming task of stuffing the chicken wire with toilet tissue (notice the rolls to the right). Bancroft said, “I have fond memories of those days and people, and we need still to put Christ back in Christmas, today more than ever. Thanks for the memories.” stay in session every day right on through the holidays. The House of Representatives is scheduled to be in session only 14 days in December, and the president is planning a vacation to Hawaii with his family while Americans, rich and poor, will be impacted if elected officials can’t come to some agreement before the end of the year. The president should change his demeanor to one of a militant facilitator and sequester leaders from both parties in the White House to work across the table rather than across televisions networks. Those leaders need to hammer out a reasonable agreement that both parties, working together, can use to convince the nation that they have the right medicine for a speedy recovery — and no one leaves Washington until there’s an agreement. Most experts agree that you can’t solve the problem by just raising more revenue — it will take both new revenue and spending cuts to get to any meaningful resolution. The best resolution has always been a healthy, growing economy. Since World War II, the country’s strongest years came when we were adding jobs and making purchases. In recent years, the overall economy has been measured by tepid growth, adding few jobs other than in narrow sectors along with consumer spending in very specific areas. The best safety net for all Americans is a job — always has been; always will be. So let’s concentrate on getting the economy going again. That’s the right medicine and it sends the message around the world that we’re serious about our deficit and are willing to do what’s necessary to get it under control. Corporate executives met with President Obama Tuesday calling for a balanced solution to the nation’s fiscal cliff and a long-term plan to deal with deficit and debt issues, including meaningful and comprehensive tax and entitlement reforms. According to a report released Monday, the manufacturing sector posted its weakest performances in three years — and executives warn the uncertainty over the negotiations in Washington, D.C., was a factor. The answers will be found in a compromise, by strategically increasing taxes along with adjusting entitlement spending that continues to grow out of proportion with future revenues. If taxpayers expect to see any action in the coming weeks, it will be found in strong leadership from both sides — not in accusations that create division and frustration. Our nation’s fiscal problems, today and beyond, come from the inability of these 545 men and women to legislate within reasonable budget projections. That’s left us with a national deficit of $16 trillion and growing — along with a weak economy and government spending that outpaces revenues. These conditions are not conducive to a strong and vital economy. The solutions are possible, but their success will only be realized if the leadership can come together looking for solutions -- rather than politicians looking to serve constituents. Fred Jacobs, vice president, J-Ad Graphics think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the questions posed each week by accessing our website www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. Last week’s question: Last week, the Hostess company — maker of the iconic Twinkie — announced its liquidation after both management and union workers refused to make concessions. Will you regret losing this piece of cultural history? For this week: Congressional lawmakers adjourn for the holiday break next week with crucial revenue and spending issues still unresolved. Would you be willing to pay more taxes to avoid going over the ‘fiscal cliff?’ q q Yes No Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, December 6, 2012 — Page 5 IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV Pittsburgh woman appreciates work by Barry Twp. police To the editor: A year ago I was scammed through my small business and had over $8,000 worth of T-shirts ordered and then stolen with bad credit cards. There is an international ring using Americans to have the shirts delivered to them here in the states. The FBI got involved and told me I would most likely never recover my money. One year later, I received a call from Detective Eric Gustavson of the Barry Township Police Department saying they had 41 boxes of my T-shirts that had been confiscated and were due to be auctioned off at their annual auction. That phone call was the beginning of a two-month process to get them returned so I could get reimbursed from my supplier. Detective Gustavson took the initiative to find me and work patiently to get the merchandise returned to me. I am from out of town and I must stay you have a very nice police department with quality people there. Chief Victor Pierce, Detective Gustavson and Officer Brian Keeler all kindly helped me through the process so my company could get reimbursed for a portion of what was stolen. I would like to come and visit your town someday and meet the people who worked unselfishly to help me recover my loss. Linda Speed, Pittsburgh, PA Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. The Hastings Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Bonnie Mattson Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 by Julie Makarewicz Staff Writer At the urging of state officials, the Village of Middleville is applying to become a member of the Michigan Main Street program at the associate level. The Downtown Development Authority made the application, and the village council endorsed the application at its Tuesday council meeting. “Members of the state felt Middleville would be a good fit for this program and that’s why we were approached,” said Village Manager Rebecca Fleury. She told council members there is no cost to become a member and no funds will be accepted by the DDA through the service. Being a member simply may allow the village to receive technical assistance from state experts on building, generating and maintain a strong downtown area. “The DDA felt this would be a way to obtain some technical assistance for the DDA to help promote the downtown. The DDA board would act as the Main Street board,” said Fleury. The Main Street program uses a four-point approach to strengthen commercial activity and improve buildings in a community’s downtown. Michigan Main Street was formed in 2003 and provides consulting services to up to three communities per year that commit to the four-point approach. That approach includes design, organization, promotion and economic restructuring. Fleury said making the application does not commit the village to being part of the program and does not ensure the state will accept the village as a partner member. “They could turn us down, or we could turn them down,” she said. If the village is accepted as an associate member, the Main Street organization will be formed to stimulate economic development and historic preservation in the downtown. The Main Street area will not include the entire DDA area — only the traditional Main Street areas. “I think any ideas on how to better our downtown area — any little help we can get — seems like it would be a good thing. Especially if it doesn’t cost us anything,” said council member Phil Van Noord. Council member Joyce Lutz voted against the application, saying she didn’t know enough about it to make an informed decision. She also questioned why the matter went to the DDA before going to the village council. “It seems like it should have come to us first — especially if they need a resolution from the council,” said Lutz. “It seems like we’re kind of after the fact.” In other matters before the council Tuesday: • Mike Lytle was re-appointed as village council president pro-tempore. He will assume the duties of the president whenever the council president is unavailable. Council President Charlie Pullen said Lytle has served in this capacity in the past and has done a good job. “I would like to have him on board again,” said Pullen. • Fleury reported the DDA LED sign is installed and will hopefully be working by Dec. 1. Lutz questioned why the sign doesn’t have some kind of “welcome to Middleville” address. “You don’t even know it’s Middleville,” she said. “It just points you to come downtown.” She also said the sign cannot be seen when approaching from the south or the west and that it signals out only the downtown area. Fleury said the DDA chose the sign and location. • Catherine Getty, zoning administrator, said the updated master pan has been sent to neighboring municipalities for review. A public hearing will be scheduled on revisions in January. • Fleury reported information about replacing the personal property taxes. She said should be of great concern, since 16 percent of the village general fund, or about $200,000, comes from those taxes. Fleury said she will keep the council informed and updated about the state’s progress in finding or creating permanent ways to replace those funds. “It’s something we’re going to have to watch very closely,” she said. • Allison LeRoy thanked the council its work with Bradford White on the building expansion. She said she’s pleased with what’s happened so far and is appreciative of the work between the village and the company. “You’ve helped it be as good as it could be for us,” she told the council. • Lutz questioned Lytle about a comment he made during re-election campaigns. She asked what he meant by wanting to get Middleville back to the way it was. Lytle said when he went to school in the 1950s, the downtown was thriving with many different businesses, and he wants to see the downtown filled and thriving again. State News Roundup State refinances bonds at historically low rate The State of Michigan closed last week on a refinancing deal at a historically low interest rate of 1.16 percent, which generated nearly 10 percent in debt service savings over the previous bonds. The bonds were issued to refund outstanding general obligation environmental program bonds. “The eagerness of bond purchasers to invest in Michigan is a testament to the strong financial turnaround that is taking place,” said State Treasurer Andy Dillon. “The bold actions that Gov. Snyder has taken to balance the state budget and make Michigan the ‘Turnaround State’ have made an impression on investors throughout the country, as reflected in the historically low rate we received on this deal.” The 1.16 percent interest rate was made possible by the economic recovery in the state, as well as sound financial decisions that have resulted in a consistently balanced budget, said Dillon. A record 15 bidders from underwriters throughout the country took part in the pricing Nov. 15. The overall savings produced will total $9.4 million, in net present value. Holiday shoppers started before Thanksgiving Michigan retailers began the traditional Thanksgiving-to-Christmas holiday shopping season with a head of steam caused by shoppers starting their gift buying early, according to the Michigan Retail Index, a joint project of Michigan Retailers Association and the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago. The state’s retail industry boosted its performance in October, setting the stage for what’s expected to be a solid holiday season, the latest monthly survey of MRA members found. “After a lull in September, sales rose for more Michigan retailers in October,” said MRA President and CEO James P. Hallan. “Others’ surveys point to early holiday shopping as a likely reason for the rise. More than half of consumers reported having started their holiday shopping well in advance of the Thanksgiving weekend.” Three out of four Michigan retailers expect to increase sales this holiday season, many by more than 5 percent, according to the Index’s September survey. Their forecasts are the most optimistic in more than a decade, noted Hallan. The October Michigan Retail Index found that 47 percent of retailers increased sales over the same month last year, while 34 percent recorded declines and 19 percent saw no change. The results create a seasonally adjusted performance index of 59.4, up from 54.0 in September. A year ago October it was 58.3. The Index gauges the performance of the state’s overall retail industry, based on monthly surveys conducted by MRA and the Federal Reserve. Index values above 50 generally indicate positive activity; the higher the number, the stronger the activity. Looking forward, 57 percent of retailers expect sales from November through January to increase over the same period last year, while 17 percent project a decrease and 26 percent no change. That puts the seasonally adjusted outlook index at 72.1, down from 76.8 in September. A year ago October it was 64.4. BUSINESS BRIEFS • Michael Puerner, vice president and general counsel for Hastings Mutual Insurance Co., has been elected a 2013 officer for the Insurance Institute of Michigan, a government affairs and public information association representing property and casualty insurance companies and related organizations operating in Michigan. • Hastings as been recognized as the 2012 Gus Macker Rookie Community of the Year by the Gus Macker Basketball organization based, in part, on the teamwork that made this past summer’s community event a success. Pennock Health Services and Brann’s Restaurant have renewed their commitment to be key sponsors for the 2013 event. • Garrett Bensinger of Independent Bank has been appointed a vice president of community banking for the Vermontville branch and five other local Independent Bank branches. Send us the business news from your company or organization and we’ll be happy to run it as space allows. Mail to Business Briefs c/o The Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058 or news@jadgraphics.com. Area Locations to purchase the Hastings Banner! Hastings: One Stop Shop (BP) (M-43 North) Tom’s Market Superette Family Fare One Stop Food (BP) (M-37 South) Hastings Speedy Mart (Shell) Bosley Admiral Penn-Nook Gift Shop P.B. Gas Station (W. State St.) BP Gas Station (M-37 West) Xpress Mart Family Fare Gas Station Woody’s General Store Middleville: Speedway Middleville Marketplace Greg’s Get-It-N-Go Shell Gun Lake: Sam’s Gourmet Foods Gun Lake Amoco Gun Lake Shell Orangeville: Orangeville Fast Stop Cloverdale: Cloverdale General Brown’s Cedar Creek Grocery Delton: Felpausch Shell Banfield: Banfield General Store Lacey: Clyde’s Sportsman Post Pine Lake: Pine Lake Grocery Dowling: Goldsworthys Dowling General Store Prairieville: Prairieville Fast Stop Woodland: Woodland Express Nashville: Trading Post Little’s Country Store Shell MV Pharmacy Nashville C Store Carl’s Lake Odessa: Lake-O-Express Lake-O-Mart Shell Carl’s Freeport: L & J’s Freeport Milling Shelbyville: Weick’s Food Town The Store at Southshore 77566089 Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Middleville submits application to join state’s Main Street program �Page 6 — Thursday, December 6, 2012 — The Hastings Banner AUDIT, continued from page 1 “This investigation needs to start right now. We owe it to somebody to find out what happened.” Though he voted with the minority in a 5-3 vote to hire Debra Pellerito of Kalamazoo to provide an initial forensic audit review, Commissioner Dan Parker echoed Nevins’ call for immediate action. “When I talked about taking our time [at last week’s meeting], I got people jumping on me,” said Parker. “We need to get on with it.” Parker said he preferred the phased approach outlined by Brown, and he voted with commissioners Craig Stolsonburg and Worship Together… 77572747 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Rev. Ryan Wieland. Sundays - 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Service; Sunday School and Nursery available during both services (Summer Schedule - Adult Sunday School: 9 a.m., Worship & Children’s Programs 10 a.m.) Youth Group, Covenant Prayer, Choir, Chimes, Praise Band, Quilting Group, Community Breakfasts and more! Call the church office at (269) 721-8077 (M/W/F 9 a.m.-12 p.m.), e-mail office@mei.net or visit www.countrychapelumc.org <http://www.countrychapelumc.org/> for more information SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 . HASTINGS ASSEMBLY OF GOD 1674 S. State Rd., Hastings, MI 49058 Phone 269-945-2285. Sunday morning service times: 9 a.m. with nursery and preschool available and 11 a.m. with nursery, preschool and kids’ church available. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Minister Collin Pinkston. Phone 269-945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 8:45 a.m. Traditional Worship; 10 a.m. Refreshments; 10:45 a.m. Contemporary Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Youth Pastor Eric Gillespie. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. New! Starting... Nov. 25... Worship Service 9:15 and Children’s Sunday School (ages 2 thru 5th grade). Worship Service: 10:45 a.m. & Children’s Junior Church (4 years through 4th grade). Junior and Senior High Youth Group 6:00 p.m., and several adult small group opportunities. Wednesday Mid-Week at 6:30 p.m.: Pioneer Club, 4 years through 5th grade. Adults: Marriage Enrichment Class, Women’s Prayer Group and a Men’s Bible Study. Thursday: Senior Adult (50+) Bible Study at 10 a.m. and lunch at Wendy’s, 11:30 a.m. Third Thursday Brunch at 9:30 a.m. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Sunday, Dec. 9 - Worship Service 8 and 10:45 a.m. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Dec. 9- - Noisy Offering for Love, Inc.; Men & Women’s Alcoholics Anonymous 7 p.m. Dec. 10 - Gracegram Deadline; Adventurerers Bible Study 7 p.m.; Recovery Bible Study 7:30 p.m. Dec. 11 - Grand Rapids Pastor’s Conference 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 12 - Wordwatchers Bible Study 10 a.m.; Advent Supper 6 p.m.; Advent Vespers 7 p.m. Dec. 13 - Staff Meeting 12:15 p.m.; Clapper Kids Bell Choir 3:45 p.m.; Grace Notes Bell Choir 5:45 p.m.; Adult Choir 7:15 p.m. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 9452645, fax 269-945-2698. Pastor Amy Luckey. http://www.discover-grace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot.com. Friday - 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday - 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday 4 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Fiberglass Products Lauer Family Funeral Homes 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings 945-2471 Howard “Hoot” Gibson against hiring Pellerito. It was Gibson who, at the board of commissioners meeting one week previous, termed the entire investigation a “witch hunt” on the part of Commissioner Robert Houtman and suggested a forensic audit could cost as much as $20,000. As described by Brown, however, the initial work to be conducted by Pellerito — a certified fraud examiner — would involve one to two days of seeking facts, interviewing key individuals and then providing a definition of the scope of the work that may need to be conducted, which could lead to an accurate cost for a full forensic audit. Brown’s estimate of the consultation was between $1,000 and $3,000. “This start to the peeling-onion stage is most appropriate, and it’s money well spent,” said Houtman. “I look at this board of commissioners and the people represented through us as having a responsibility to determine what happened [in the Middleville animal cruelty case]. “All county boards have a responsibility for animal control, and we have a right and a responsibility to know if we were involved. Asking for this to protect the interests of Barry County cannot be termed a witch hunt.” Commissioner Joe Lyons was hunting at Tuesday’s meeting for an answer as to why the board needs to take the blame for an investigation that the public is demanding. “I’m not going to sit here and take the hit for spending money for a forensic audit,” said Lyons, “because we wouldn’t even be talking about this if the sheriff had done his job when he should have done it. “My point is that we, as a board, get our feet held to the fire for calling for a forensic audit and spending county money when it’s something the public is demanding.” Lyons may have been referencing direct and candid remarks offered during the public comment portion of Tuesday’s meeting from citizen Jack Miner. “This issue demands justice,” said Miner in prepared remarks, “justice for the families that brought their animals to the shelter expecting humane treatment, justice for the people that worked and volunteered at the shelter, justice for citizens that funded and helped build the physical structure and want to know what the heck happened to their dream — and last, but not least, justice for the animals for which you have a moral responsibility. “The voters will put up with a lot from their elected officials because they know you are human and make mistakes. In fact, they will tolerate almost anything, except a real or perceived cover-up. The best example we have of this truism is the downfall of Richard Nixon,” said Miner. Lyons had direct words for Leaf’s handling of the affair, reminding commissioners that they interviewed Tepper for a position on the Animal Control Advisory Board, turned her down, then watched as Leaf appointed her as his representative to the board. “We all know what’s going on here,” said Lyons, “everybody needs to be honest and say what’s on their mind.” Lyons was referring, in part, to the commission’s vote Nov. 20 to recommend that the Michigan State Police conduct the investigation, due to the appearance of a conflict of interest on the part of Leaf. Stolsonburg reminded Lyons that the MSP could only be authorized by County Prosecutor Tom Evans to assume that authority. Evans saidd last week that he had advised Leaf to counsel with the Michigan Sheriffs Association on the matter. Leaf, who attended Tuesday’s meeting but was detained by an emergency call during discussion of the issue, missed Nevins’ question on whether the MSA contact had been made. “Yes, I called and they said ‘Send us an email,’” said Leaf, who stated following the meeting that he had yet to do so. “When I talked to the State Police they told me ‘We don’t determine it to be a conflict of interest, you’ve already done an investigation and you’ve got an arrest warrant.’ “What more do they want?” Leaf attributes the tumult to Houtman and Commissioner Jeff VanNortwick, who seconded Houtman’s motion Tuesday to begin a forensic audit. “I endorsed their opponents [in the Aug. 7 primary vote] and their opponents won,” maintained Leaf. “I know the public knows I did right thing. A forensic audit is fine, it’s their building. and they can do whatever kind of audit they want.” Leaf pointed out that a recent financial audit of the facility, conducted soon after animal control operations were separated from In Loving Memory of our Father, Grandfather & Great Grandfather RAYMOND HAUSE, SR. Who passed away Dec. 5, 1996. 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 We miss you. Love you always, your family 77572764 “All county boards have a responsibility for animal control, and we have a right and a responsibility to know if we were involved. Asking for this to protect the interests of Barry County cannot be termed a witch hunt.” Commissioner Robert Houtman animal shelter responsibilities last fall, cost the county $2,300 and he questioned why commissioners wouldn’t rely on Newman, the new animal shelter director, to do a capable audit as part of her responsibilities. Leaf also questioned Tuesday’s meeting process. “It [the forensic audit discussion] was not even on the agenda,” pointed out Leaf. “I leave the room and they vote on something I didn’t know anything about. It was almost like an ambush. “I’m offended for my staff by the comments from commissioners. If I’m corrupt, the whole department is corrupt. They don’t understand the collateral damage they cause.” In other business, the board approved formal recommendation of the following at its next meeting: • A change in the name of the Animal Control Shelter Board to the Animal Shelter Board to reflect the separation made last fall between animal control and animal shelter functions. Also recommended was a reduction in the board’s composition from 11 members to nine. The two eliminated positions would be those of Rebecca Neal and the designated sheriff’s representative position. The resignations of Chuck Reid and Kim Veldheer will create two openings on the board, for which the commission will advertise volunteer opportunity. • Direction that Carlton Township resident Eldon Shellenbarger consult with state legislators in regard to a requested amendment to the Barry County Animal Control Ordinance. Following a recent car accident with a cow running at large, Shellenbarger said county law enforcement officers were not able to investigate the incident because they did not witness the livestock in question. Shellenbarger sought the board’s assistance in rewriting the ordinance to establish investigations in similar future matters leading to the identity of the livstock owner for the establishment of liability and making such an offense more than a civil infraction. Stolsonburg said the ordinance falls under the state’s Farm Act, leaving change in the ordinance up to the state. “What good is this animal control ordinance, then?” asked Shellenbarger. “It’s not worth the paper it’s written on. This is a public health and safety issue, and, until we get some bite in the law, if somebody gets killed, it will be a civil infraction.” • Authorization for Barry County Transit Director Joe Bleam to apply for state and federal grants for the 2014 fiscal year and making Bleam the official transportation coordinator authorized to provide needed and requested grant information. • Approval to purchase recording equipment for the hearing room in the county Courts and Law building at a cost of $18,427 to replace aging equipment that is no longer maintained by the vendor. • A co-authorization with the judicial council, the administrative arm of the Barry County Trial Court, to create and enforce policies needed to maintain security for the courts and buildings housing the courts. The authorization will allow expedient implementation of security measures, such as identification cards and magnetometer compliance for county employees, trial attendees and courthouse visitors. • Approval of a Farmland and Open Space Preservation Program request from Randy and Shawn Durkee of Carlton Township. • Approval for the preparation and submission of a 2012 Michigan Blight Elimination application needed to receive money dedicated to the removal of blighted and abandoned homes and commercial businesses at nine sites in Delton, the city of Hastings, and Middleville. Planning and Zoning Director James McManus and Jon Hart of the City of Hastings said they expect several sites in Nashville to be added to the target list of blighted properties. • Approval of a 2013 fiscal year quote for workers compensation excess insurance coverage with a retention amount of $500,000 from the Midwest Company and renewal with Eagle Claims Management for third-party management services in the amount of $44,263. The next meeting of the Board of Commissioners is scheduled for Tuesday, Dec. 11, at 9 a.m. in the commission chambers at the Barry County Courthouse. Area Obituaries Ward Duane Pierce Patricia Kay Slater THREE RIVERS, MI - Rev. Ward Duane Pierce, age 82, was born on Aug. 5, 1930 in Grand Rapids, the son of Ward F. and Mary E. Pierce. He went home to the Lord on Sunday Dec. 2, 2012 at Three Rivers Health following a brief illness. Ward was preceded in death by his parents; an infant son; two wives, Joan (Holcomb) Pierce and Muriel (Casteel) Pierce. He is survived by two daughters, Melody Mitchell of White Cloud and Michelle (Dan) Robrahn of Middleville; a sister, Bette Zies of Burton, TX; 11 grandchildren; cousins and in-laws. Ward was a loving husband and father. After a variety of other occupations, he answered the Lord's call to the ordained ministry in 1967, and served faithfully in several United Methodist churches. He held several District positions within the West Michigan Conference as well as the General Church as Disaster Response Coordinator. He also served as Chaplain in the United States Corps of Chaplains, and the Free and Accepted Masons. He was active in service organizations in all of the communities in which he served and was an instructor for the American Red Cross for over 30 years. Visitation will be from 2 to 6 p.m. Sunday Dec. 9, 2012 at the Eickhoff Funeral Home in Mendon, and where a Masonic Rite will take place at 6 p.m. Sunday by F&AM Lodge #137. The first of two memorial services will take place 11 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 10, 2012 at the Mendon United Methodist Church. A second memorial service will take place 11 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2012 at the Lakewood United Methodist Church in Lake Odessa with Rev. George Speas, Rev. John Wait, and District Superintendent Rev. Tamara Williams officiating. His ashes will later be interred in Sherman-Mesick Cemetery. It is suggested that memorial donations be directed to any of the following United Methodist churches: Mesick, Harrietta, Brethren, Lake City, Wesley Park, Buchanan, Lakewood, Mendon, West Mendon, or to the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR). An online register is available and condolences may be left for his family at www.eickhofffuneralhome. HASTINGS, MI - Patricia Kay Slater, age 72, of Hastings, passed away Saturday, December 1, 2012 at Pennock Hospital in Hastings. She was born May 11, 1940 in Plainwell, the daughter of Allan and Maxine (Gill) Grinage. Pat attended Woodland High School, graduating in 1958. She and David Dean Slater were married on March 2, 1963 at the Woodland Methodist Church. Pat was employed at EW Bliss for five years and True Value Hardware for many years. She was a cub scout leader, a youth group leader at the Hope United Methodist Church, an avid cook, reader and shopper. Pat loved to spend time with the love of her life, David, children, and her beautiful grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Allan and Maxine Grinage; brother-in-law, Robert Heath; brother-in-law, Stuart Rose; father and mother-in-law, Forest and Ester Slater. Pat is survived by her husband, David Dean Slater of Hastings; sons, Christopher Slater and Todd (Jamie) Slater; daughters, Dena Rozell (Marty Hall), Jean (Jon) Christensen; grandchildren, Jessica Slater, Erika Rozell, Chase Slater, Dawson Slater, Haven Slater, Justine Christensen, Josh Christensen and Janelle Christensen; brother, Steve (Alma) Grinage; sisters, Gloria Heath, Gayle (Roger) Chase, Marsha (Lavon) Hamp, Paula (Brian) Killewald and many nieces and nephews Pat was a devoted and loving wife, mother and grandmother and will sadly be missed by all that knew her. A funeral service was held Wednesday, December 5, 2012 at Thornapple Valley Church in Hastings. Memorial contributions may be made to the family to help pay for medical expenses that have been incurred. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message to the family. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, December 6, 2012 — Page 7 SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY by Gerald Stein Medicare age is still 65 Ruth Leichleitner to celebrate 99th birthday N: 4 M: K Q 9 8 6 3 L: K J 7 4 K: 8 5 Ruth Leichleitner will celebrate 99 years of blessings on Dec. 13. If you would like to celebrate with her, please send a postcard to: 1821 E. Center Rd., Hastings, MI 49058. Dealer: East Vulnerable: Neither Lead: Pick It North ??? East Pass Pass South M 2M Pass West Pass Pass In a recent online bridge tournament, thirty-six tables played today’s hand. With neither side vulnerable, South elected to open a weak two-bid with eight high card points and six hearts. The hearts were good hearts. The weak 2M bid here is the ideal bid. With both East and West passing, North had to reach a major decision. What bid did North have to make since he had only one chance to bid it knowing that his partner had exactly what she said she had: six hearts and a minimum number of high-card points. North had a powerful hand. The fit in hearts is a given. Where should the contract be placed? What are the choices? Four hearts would be a sign-off bid indicating a game in hearts. Five hearts is a wishy-washy bid. Six hearts is a slam try in hearts with a small slam and bonus points for bidding and making a small slam. Seven hearts is also a slam try for a grand slam and all the possible points for this hand. What is your choice? Counting the high card points in the North hand is a good place to start to determine the correct and best contract for the North/South team. Knowing that the contract will be in the heart suit, North does the math: 18 high-card points with five hearts, five spades, one diamond, and two clubs. The diamond and the club suits are incredible holdings for North. There is not a concern in those two suits nor in the heart suit since North knows that they have eleven hearts between them. No, the major concern is the spade suit with a KN and four small spades. Here are North’s choices: go for the sure game in hearts and collect the game bonus plus any overtricks? Or go for the slam choices? Which slam? Again, what would you have done as a Barry County bridge player? Four hearts? Five hearts? Six hearts? Seven hearts? The huddle is over. It is time for action as a bridge player. Your decision? Bid the slam, of course. Six hearts or seven hearts? Time for another huddle, but this time, the decision seems easier knowing about the weak spades in the North hand. North pulled out the six heart card from the bidding box, and all passed. West had the lead. There was no hesitation on West’s part. The AN was the lead, of course. No sense in giving North/South a chance to take all thirteen tricks. The AN held the trick, and then West had to consider another lead. A trump lead or a club lead could not hurt. West chose the club lead, hoping that his QK might set up. South took the AK and drew trumps in two rounds, East showing out on the first time. South then took the AL, the KK, the KN, trumped a spade, led the KL and discarded a spade, led another diamond, trumped a diamond, led a spade, trumped a spade, led a diamond and trumped a diamond, led a spade, trumped a spade, led the last diamond, trumped a diamond, led a spade, and trumped a spade, and claimed. North/South had bid and had made the small slam in hearts. How did you do? In the online tournament, with 36 tables in play, 27 tables bid and made 6M. No one made an overtrick. Six bid and made 4M with two overtricks, and one bid 5M, making one overtrick. The message is obvious: when a spectacular hand appears, go for the most that you think you can make. In this case, most of the online players knew that this was an unusual hand, and that they should bid it to the maximum. Happy bridge playing in Barry County. ***** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) 1351 N. M-43 Hwy. P.O. Box 188 Hastings, MI 49058-0188 We Have a Colorful Solution... Whether your printing needs are complex color brochures or simple black and white forms, let J-ad Graphics design, print and deliver quality printed materials you’ll be proud of. Complete design, printing and bindery facilities in-house to handle all of your printing needs no matter how large or small. Call one of our Printing Specialists today! Publishers of: Tyler Tod Betterly, Hastings and Cynthia Ann Vandermoren, Jenison. •Hastings Banner •Hastings Reminder •Sun & News •Lakewood News •Maple Valley News •Marshall Chronicle & Community Advisor •Battle Creek Shopper •Lowell Ledger & Buyers’ Guide GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. To contact one of our Printing Specialists Call: Phone (269) 945-9554 Fax (269) 945-5192 Dear Dad, it’s your birthday And I want you to know I appreciate you more As the years come and go. All your good qualities Stand out and shine; Fathers are priceless, And I’m so glad you’re mine! PR Thornapple Wind Band and the Thornapple Brass Saturday. The Thornapple Valley Dulcimer Society will perform Sunday. Charlton Park is a collection site for the Barry County United Way Toys for Barry County Kids. “Please bring a new, unwrapped toy or a donation of nonperishable food or household supplies with you for to the event,” said Graham. Donations are currently being accepted and can be brought to the Upjohn House Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission to Of Christmas Past is $5 for anyone 13 and up, $3 for children age 5 to 12 and free for children 4 and under. For additional information, visit www.charltonpark.org or call 269-945-3775. Historic Charlton Park is located between Hastings and Nashville, north of M-79 at 2545 Charlton Park Road. Marriage Licenses Have a Printing Need? 1 OR OL Children and the young at heart can experience the holidays of yesteryear during Of Christmas Past at Historic Charlton Park Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 8 and 9 from noon to 5 p.m. The park’s turn-of-the-century village will be staffed by volunteers and adorned with festive decorations and fresh evergreens. Guests can take a sleigh (or wagon) ride, and then visit with St. Nicholas who will have plenty of candy canes for good boys and girls. “Try your hand at various crafts, including candle making, corn husk angels and sachets,” suggested Stacey Graham, office manager at Charlton Park. “Sample traditional food and drink, including wassail, plum pudding, roasted chestnuts and popcorn.” In addition, the Charlton Park Foundation Board will provide cookies at the Sixberry House. Live holiday music will ring through the church, courtesy of members of the Autumn Jane, born at Pennock Hospital on Nov. 16, 2012 at 9:02 a.m. to Kerri and Adam Zwerk of Lake Odessa. Weighing 4 lbs 15 ozs. and 17.5 inches long. ***** Roselynn Allene, born at Pennock Hospital on Nov. 19, 2012 at 3:55 p.m. to Bethany Johncock and Mike Mooney of Shelbyville. Weighing 7 lbs. 8 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Hailey Jo, born at Pennock Hospital on Nov. 21, 2012 at 1:58 p.m. to Ashley Forest and Tom May of Nashville. Weighing 5 lbs. 7 ozs. and 19 1/4 inches long. ***** Ellinor Rose, born at Pennock Hospital on Nov. 21, 2012 at 3:04 p.m. to Mercede and Colby Wilcox of Hastings. Weighing 6 lbs. 9 ozs. and 18 1/2 inches long. ***** Adelita Marie, born at Pennock Hospital on Nov. 22, 2012 at 7:31 a.m. to Danielle Hall and Randy Tobias of Delton. Weighing 6 lbs. 13 ozs. and 18 1/2 inches long. CO PIE Charlton Park will celebrate Christmas as it was in the late 1800s Newborn Babies s SOUTH: *H *O igh ne Q Ch •C eck H ua o ou lit •F olor ut o ol rP yF •C di Cop ur s n pe •B olla g & ies ho ilm cia t ls •C lack ing Lam to er vi in * Pro •P usto & W ce ati s: m l ng h ce an astic Ru ite d ss M Bin bbe Cop or i in e! ding r Sta es g* m p N: Q J 9 8 M: ---L: 10 9 2 K: J 10 7 6 3 2 before age 65 do not need to apply; they will be automatically enrolled in Medicare. There is no additional charge for Medicare hospital insurance (Part A) since you already paid for it by working and paying Medicare tax. However, there is a monthly premium for medical insurance (Part B). If you already have other health insurance when you become eligible for Medicare, you should consider whether you want to apply for the medical insurance. To learn more about Medicare and some options for choosing coverage, visit www.Medicare.gov or call 800MEDICARE. To learn more about applying for Medicare Only using the online application, visit www.socialsecurity.gov/medicareonly. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. I NT RI LP N: A 10 6 M: J 5 L: Q 8 6 5 3 K: Q 9 4 by Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist If you’re in your 60s, you probably know that the age to receive full retirement benefits has changed. However, the age to begin receiving Medicare has not — it is still 65. Even if you wait until after age 65 to apply for retirement benefits, you still may want to file for Medicare at age 65. If you want Medicare coverage when you first become eligible, we suggest you apply within three months of reaching age 65. You can do it online in as little as 10 minutes at www.socialsecurity.gov/medicareonly. Why go online to apply for Medicare? Because it’s fast, easy and secure. You don’t need an appointment, and you can avoid waiting in traffic or in line. As long as you have 10 minutes to spare, you have time to complete and submit your online Medicare application. People who started receiving Social Security retirement or disability benefits • EAST IN TIN G N WEST • N: K 7 5 3 2 M: A 10 7 4 2 L: A K: A K NG NORTH IG ES &D GRAND OPENING! Happy 65th Birthday MIKE HALLIFAX ~ 12-7-12 ~ Americans have never paid more at the pump than they did this year, according to GasBuddy. The yearly national average is running at $3.63 per gallon so far for 2012, and it’s all but guaranteed that 2012 will go down as the year with the highest average ever, said Patrick DeHaan, senior petroleum analyst for GasBuddy, in a press release issued Nov. 29. With one month left, DeHaan said it is mathematically possible that 2012 could close without becoming the most expensive year ever for American consumers at the gas pumps, but that would necessitate an unthinkable calamity. “We did the math, and the numbers don’t lie,” he said. “Last year’s average price of gasoline nationwide was $3.51 per gallon. The national average price of gasoline in the U.S. would have to drop to $2.35 per gallon or lower for every day for the remainder of 2012 in order for the 2012 yearly average price to fall below last year’s level. “There’s no question that the national numbers were elevated by major supply problems in California over the summer and more recently on the East Coast when Hurricane Sandy delivered major flood damage and power outages at northeastern refineries,” said GasBuddy’s Gregg Laskoski, also a GasBuddy analyst. “It reminds us exactly how vulnerable our nation’s fuel infrastructure is and why the U.S. should be looking to increase refining capacity where it is needed most.” For more information, visit www.gasbuddy.com. Sunday, Dec. 9th Noon to 5pm Love, your daughters, grandkids and great-granddaughters Barry County’s ultimate Shopping Experience! 06796731 Fill-ups in 2012 costliest yet 77572890 All products made in Barry County by Barry County Residents. CHECK US OUT!!! 1035 E. State St., Hastings, MI 269-948-9774 77572915 New Vendors Wanted! �Page 8 — Thursday, December 6, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of by Elaine Garlock The women’s fellowship of First Congregational Church will meet at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 12 for a cookie exchange. The refreshment committee that evening will be Doris McCaul and Marcia Raffler. Lola Haller will provide the program. Those attending are invited to bring a favorite Christmas ornament to tell the story behind it. The Lake Odessa Area Historical Society will meet Thursday, Dec. 13, at 7 p.m. in the Freight House for the annual potluck supper. Members and friends or guests are invited to join. The evening will include a program and reports on Christmas ‘Round the Town. The next meeting of Mulliken Chapter 161 Order of the Eastern Star will be Friday, Dec. 14, at 7:30 p.m. in the Masonic Temple. Meeting dates have been changed from Thursdays to Fridays. There will be no meetings in January or February. Chief Deputy Brian Peacock, son of Richard and Gayle Peacock, has retired after 26 years with the Eaton County Sheriff’s office. Much of his time was in teaching safety classes. His retirement party was last week Friday. The cantata presented by the chancel choir of Central United Methodist Church Sunday was well received by the full house of music lovers. The choir was under the direction of Ginny Kruisenga. In the fellowship hall, the Gentners and Banfields, with assistance from others, had a bountiful table of sweet goodies ready for munching. Visitors that evening included Doug and Dottie Lawson of Jackson in company of Bonnie and David Sckoville, James King of Big Rapids in company of his father Theron. Saturday, 15 members of the Garlock family from Big Rapids and Kalamazoo and points between were in Grand rapids for the memorial service for their uncle William Gedris, former president of Ideal Seating Company who had died earlier in the week. A full house awaited the start of the production “Stink, Stank, Stunk” Saturday at Lakewood United Methodist Church under the direction of John Waite. This was yet another program by the Living Stones and others from the host church. Kelly Sanderson was the choreographer. Tammy Mattice was in charge of costumes and Dan Mattice was in charge of the set, which included long ramps in the outer aisles. Tablesful of cookies in the dining room awaited the audience which lingered long for conversation, cookies and coffee. The same program was produced Sunday evening. The Lake Odessa Community Library is having Christmas Fun for Teens Tuesday, Dec. 13, at 3:45 p.m. They will decorate cookies and make a craft and also enjoy hot cocoa. This is for anyone age 11 to 18. On the same day, homeschoolers will be at the library at 1 p.m. for cookies and crafts. Those attending are asked to RSVP in advance. SUICIDES, continued from page 1 post-crisis intervention strategies. The group will then be joined by counselors from the district and Calhoun ISD regional school health coordinator Dr. Cindy Cook for a brief question-and-answer session. Resource tables will be accessible before and after the program with materials for participants to take home While older high school students will benefit from listening to the speakers, younger students and children will be offered ageappropriate activities coordinated by Heather Albee, integrated education director from Sherman Lake YMCA, and graduate student in counseling and psychology at Western Michigan University. She will be joined by members of the high school student council, plus National Honor Society and leadership students. In addition to the short-term goals, Bassett said the committee has proposed long-term goals and strategies, including rekindling in the district the Michigan Model health curriculum, which is a comprehensive K-12 health education program including elements relative to this initiative. Bassett said the district will be investigating the Good Behavior Game for elementary school students, SOS for the middle school students and Teen Screen for high school students. Bassett added that the district has been reviewing its Michigan Profile for Healthy Youth data to determine where the greatest need is before proceeding. The ultimate goal is to identify at risk students and have trained counselors available in the district to work with students identified to be at risk. For more information about the Dec. 10 program or the efforts planned, call Delton Kellogg Schools, 269-623-9225. NOTICE lowing Boards/Commissions: Agricultural Preservation Board (4 positions: 1 representing Natural Resource Conservation, 2 representing Agricultural Interest, and 1 representing Real Estate or Development Interest) Animal Shelter Advisory Board (3 positions, Citizen at Large) Commission on Aging Board (2 positions) Community Mental Health Authority Board (1 position, must be a primary consumer) Parks and Recreation Board (3 positions, Citizen at Large) Planning Commission (1position, term expiring 4/30/13) Region 3B Area Agency on Aging Advisory Council (1 position, Member at Large) This position requires completion of a special application form. Please contact the County Administrator’s Office to request a copy, at 269-945-1284. Applications may be obtained at the County Administration Office, 3rd floor of the Courthouse, 220 W. State St., Hastings; or www.barrycounty.org; and must be returned no later than 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 26, 2012. Contact 269-945-1284 for more information. NOTICE TO BIDDERS Specifications and additional information may be obtained at the Road Commission Office at the above address or at our website www.barrycrc.org. 3-2012 GMC 1/2 ton Crew Cab SLE pickups with caps 5.3 Liter 6 speeds 4 WD, Air, Cruise, PW & Locks, Keyless remote, Towing Package 1 Summit White, approx. 14,000 MilesMinimum Bid $24,000 1 Stealth Gray, approx. 25,000 MilesMinimum Bid $23,000 1 Silver, approx. 12,000 MilesMinimum Bid $24,000 The board reserves the right to reject any or all proposals or to waive irregularities in the best interest of the Commission. BARRY COUNTY ROAD COMMISSIONERS OF THE COUNTY OF BARRY Frank M Fiala, Chairman David D. Dykstra, Member 77572657 D. David Solmes, Member HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, Dec. 6 — Movie Memories gets ready for Christmas with “Remember the Night,” starring Fred MacMurray, 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7 — preschool story time enjoys snowmen, 10:30 a.m. Monday, Dec. 10 — computer class takes on how to edit photos online, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 11 — toddler story time enjoys the stories of Jim Aylesworth, 10:30 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30; genealogy club meets, 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 12 — Royal Readers party and rehearse “The Hysterical History of the Trojan War,” 4 to 5 p.m. Call the Hastings Public Library for more information, 269-945-4263. Area TEA PARTY MEETING 7:00 pm • Tuesday, Dec. 11th, 2012 America’s Survival...Your Thoughts? 77572880 Sealed proposals will be received at the office of the Barry County Road Commission, 1725 West M43 Highway, P.O. Box 158, Hastings, MI 49058, until 10:00 AM, Monday December 10, 2012 for the following items. Now that 2012 is drawing to a close, you may want to review the progress you’ve made this past year in many areas of your life — including your financial situation. By going over your investment portfolio and other key areas related to your finances, you can learn what moves you may need to make in 2013 to stay on track toward your important objectives, such as college for your children, a comfortable retirement and the ability to leave the type of legacy you desire. To get a clear picture of where you are, consider asking yourself these questions: • Am I taking on too much risk? Although 2012 has generally been a pretty good year for investors, we’ve certainly seen periods of considerable volatility. During these times, did you find yourself constantly fretting about big drops in your portfolio value? In fact, have you consistently experienced this type of worry throughout your years as an investor? If so, you might be taking on too much risk for your individual risk tolerance. Review your holdings to determine if you can lower your risk level without jeopardizing your overall investment strategy. • Am I investing too conservatively? Just as you can take on too much investment risk, you can also go to the other extreme by investing too conservatively. If your portfolio contains a preponderance of investments that offer significant preservation of principal but very little in the way of growth potential, you may be endangering your chances of accumulating the resources you’ll need to achieve your long-term goals. • Am I contributing as much as I can afford to my retirement plans? If you have access to an employer-sponsored retirement plan, such as a 401(k), 403(b) or 457(b), consider yourself fortunate. Your plan has the potential to grow on a tax-deferred basis, and you typically contribute pre-tax dollars — the more you BARRY COUNTY BARRY COUNTY ROAD COMMISSION The Barry County Road Commission is offering for sale three 2012 GMC 1/2 ton Crew Cab SLE pickups. Time for year-end review of your financial strategy? 77572904 The Barry County Board of Commissioners is seeking applications from volunteers to serve on the fol- EDWARD JONES Middle Villa Inn 4611 North M-37, Middleville Gary L. Munson • 269-623-8464 NOTICE TO BARRY COUNTY CITIZENS Hastings City-Barry County Airport is accepting applications for the position of (Member at Large) to serve on the Hastings City-Barry County Airport Commission. The Term is for 2 years, starting in 2013 ending December 31st, 2015. Please send resumes to: Attention Airport Board, Hastings City-Barry County Airport, 2505 Murphy Drive, Hastings, MI 49058. Must receive resumes by December 18th, 2012, any resumes received after December 18th will not be accepted. For more information call 269-945-6306 and ask for Mark. 07616044 put in, the lower your annual taxable income. Plus, your employer may match part of your contributions. So if you’ve been under-funding your retirement plan, ratchet up your funding in 2013. At the same time, you may still be eligible to contribute to an IRA; if so, try to “max out” on it. A traditional IRA grows tax deferred while a Roth IRA can grow tax free, provided you meet certain conditions. • Am I adequately protecting my income — and my family? Over time, you’ll experience many changes in your life — marriage, children, new job, new home, etc. Most, if not all, of these changes will require you to make sure you have adequate life insurance in place to help guard your family’s future, should anything happen to you. Furthermore, to help replace your income should you become disabled, you may well need to purchase an adequate amount of disability income insurance. • Do I need professional help? As the above questions indicate, maintaining control of your financial situation can be challenging — especially if you try to do it all on your own. You might benefit from working with a financial professional — someone who can analyze your situation objectively and make recommendations based on your risk tolerance, time horizon and specific goals. Before the clock runs out on 2012, take the time to ask yourself the above questions. The answers may well spur you to take positive action in 2013. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 33.49 +.34 AT&T 33.92 +.30 BP PLC 41.00 -.35 CMS Energy Corp 24.38 +.43 Coca-Cola Co 37.15 -.27 Eaton 51.28 +.23 Family Dollar Stores 70.71 +1.77 Fifth Third Bancorp 14.14 -.40 Flowserve CP 140.90 +2.14 Ford Motor Co. 11.31 +.21 General Mills 40.63 +.01 General Motors 25.41 +.40 Intel Corp. 19.97 +.04 Kellogg Co. 55.23 -.22 McDonald’s Corp 87.20 +1.28 Pfizer Inc. 25.16 +.91 Perrigo Co. 105.00 +2.00 Ralcorp 89.45 +.65 Sears Holding 42.88 -3.17 Spartan Motors 4.96 +.40 Spartan Stores 15.44 +.94 Stryker 54.35 +.13 TCF Financial 11.80 +.03 Walmart Stores 72.12 +2.62 Gold $1,696.95 -$45.50 Silver $32.93 -1.11 Dow Jones Average 12,951 +73 Volume on NYSE 631M 12M Too much exercise by Dr. E. Kirsten Peters I’m not going to give you permission in this piece to live a sedentary life, sitting at a desk at work all day and then on the couch watching television each evening. But medical science increasingly has some evidence of a general principal your mother warned you about: There is such a thing as too much of a good thing. A few folks really throw themselves headlong into aerobic exercise, running, biking, rowing or swimming for hours and hours each week. Most of these hard-core endurance athletes start young. Many fall by the wayside in middle age, but there are also those who keep going, completing marathons and similar events well into retirement age. What happens to the heart muscles of such titans of lifelong exercise? A recent British study set out to address that question. It found men ranging in age from 26 to 67 who were chronic and lifelong exercise kings. The men came from the ranks of Olympic teams in distance running and rowing, and from what the Brits apparently call the 100 Marathon club – a group that requires applicants to have completed at least 100 marathon races. Okay, we’re clear on the picture. These guys were and are fantastically fit. But what could be said about the hearts of the older men in the group compared to the younger athletes and also compared to healthy older men who may have walked around and gardened a bit but who didn’t do crazy things like run 100 marathons? Researchers used a new type of MRI exam on the three groups of men — the young and old athletes and the control group made up of the healthy older men who had never exercised strenuously day after day. The sophisticated MRI was capable of showing truly early stages of scarring, or fibrosis, of the heart muscle. Interestingly, none of the younger athletes had early fibrosis in their hearts, but neither did the older men who didn’t follow enormously demanding exercise regimes. Remember, the older men had been screened to be healthy subjects — not guys wheezing at every breath from decades of heavy cigarette smoking, nor men with heart defects or a history of heart attacks. But what was striking were the results from the older male athletes. Half of them had hearts that showed some muscle scarring. And the men with the fibrosis were those who had exercised the hardest and the longest. To repeat, the information from Britain doesn’t get us off the hook when it comes to exercise. Let’s face it, most of us Americans are generally in no danger of running 100 marathons over our lifetimes. Again and again, in one major medical study after another, the health benefits of exercise have been shown. Aerobic exercise, the sort of thing that makes you breathe deeply, is good for the old heart and lungs, and will help you ward off such maladies as Type II diabetes. And if you’ve noticed lately that you’re getting just a bit older, exercise is your best single bet to help combat the battle of the bulge. But it’s also true that completing more than 100 marathons may be a bit excessive. Here’s one final thought on the British study: Inquiring minds reading about such research programs might well ask why women were left out of the investigations. For years, it’s been commonplace to leave us females out of many research populations. The logic has been that women are different from men. (Yes, doctors have noticed that.) In order to have a simple study with only a few people in it, so the reasoning goes, it’s best to eliminate women from the research because their bodies might have differences that would affect the outcomes of the work. Thus, after medical studies of various types, doctors have generalized from results really known only for men but nevertheless applied to women. Mind you, we could reverse that logic. Researchers interested in heart health, diabetes, colon cancer or whatever could study only women – because after all, including men in such studies could complicate results. Then we could just assume what’s true for women simply must be true for men. That’ll be the day. Dr. E. Kirsten Peters, a native of the rural Northwest, was trained as a geologist at Princeton and Harvard universities. Follow her online at rockdoc.wsu.edu and on Twitter @RockDocWSU. This column is a service of the College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences at Washington State University. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, December 6, 2012 — Page 9 Read the history of Christmas card traditions added to special greeting card section, part 1 The following series of articles was taken from the Dec. 24, 1952, Sun and News as part of a Christmas card-themed advertising section. Beginnings Since earliest times many of the inhabitants of the world have observed that there is a period during the year when “the days begin to lengthen and the cold begins to strengthen,” and others express it, “when the earth began to waken under the kiss of light, when new hopes rose in frozen hearts.” It was the winter solstice when the sun, parent of fertility, began to rise over the world with renewed vigor and power after having been at the lowest point in the heavens. Some old opinions were that in winter the sun actually stood still for 40 days, based, no doubt, on the presence of the Midnight Sun. The northern people considered the sun as a wheel that alternately threw its glow upon the earth and away from it. This sun wheel was known as hweol and, perhaps, from this was derived our word, “yule.” The first Christmas card It is reputed that the first Christmas card, as we now think of it, was dispatched in 1845 by W.C. Dobson, one of Queen Victoria’s favorite painters. He sent lithograph copies to his friends. The following year, John Calcott Horsley, royal academician, was asked to design a card for Sir Henry Cole. It seemed that Sir Henry, finding himself very busy and not able to write a vast quantity of Christmas letters to his friends, asked Horsley to produce a card that he might send out in lieu of correspondence. Copies of this card are in existence. Horsley’s card depicts a merry family, three generations, leaning back comfortably. Kindly disposed toward the fruit of the vine, and celebrating their annual deed of kindness to the poor. There was “brimming cheer” for everyone, from Grandma to little Nell. Mr. Horsley’s drawing was severely criticized by the zealous friends of temperance, declaring the design was an out-and-out promoter of drunkenness. There was such an unwarranted to-do over the point that by the time Christmas 1847 rolled around, a number of people who might never have known about the Cole card were getting out one of their own. At each side of the happy family group, in smaller panels, were shown acts of charity: “feeding the hungry” and “clothing the naked.” The name of Louis Prang is an outstanding one in the history of Christmas cards. Prang was an exile following the German revolution of 1848 and the founder of L. Prang and Company, which introduced the art idea to public schools in the form of the Prang Method of Education, the first to develop the creative impulse in students and train them in good taste. Prang started to print cards in 1874, in Roxbury, Mass., using and perfecting a lithographic process that sometimes employed as many as 20 colors. At this period, it was common to offer prizes for the best design submitted. One, Dora Wheeler, received a prize of $2,000. Interesting changes have taken place in cards over the years. Some years they were extremely sentimental. Other years tiny animals were popular. Then the card design was switched to the ridiculous. Christmas tree history Since the earliest days, the bringing of evergreens indoors at Christmastime has been one of the first ways of giving the home a fes- tive air. As William Muir Auld says in his Christmas Traditions, “The graceful custom of the use of evergreens has its roots in the profound reverence of the Ancients for all natural phenomena. To their simple and unartificial minds, Nature was everywhere alive. Every fountain had its spirit, every mounting its deity, and every water, grove and meadow its supernatural associations. The whisperings of the trees through their leafy boughs was the subtle speech of the god who dwelt within, while the sound of the waves breaking over a pebbly beach was the joyous laughter of the divinities of the sea. And so, one thing is certain – evergreens were not first used for their decorative value but because of their significance and their ability to bring the world of nature to the indoors. Perhaps the use of trinkets on the tree dates from the early Roman days when it was common to hang little masks of Bacchus upon trees and vines to impart fertility to every side of the trees to which the wind turned the faces. Virgil refers to these dangling objects as oscilla and describes how a pine tree is laden with them. The use of evergreens was so closely associated with the garlands of pagan days that in many of the early church celebrations, they were forbidden. For instance, Bishop Martin of Bracae, in 575 forbade the use of all greenery and “other dangerous Calend customs.” It was therefore not until the 16th century that Christian homes were commonly decorated. In many European countries, fir trees were put up in rooms and adorned with roses cut from many colored papers, with apples and leafgold and sweets. Perhaps this decoration was reminiscent of the old beliefs that many trees bloomed at Christmastime. When Christ was born The definite date of the birth of Christ has been fixed by church council who gained their knowledge from the historical records of that period. The people of Christ’s day did not regard Jesus as the Messiah of God from birth, but merely thought of Him as becoming the Christian’s god when He was 30 years old, at the time when the Holy Spirit descended on Him at the baptism in the Jordan. St. Mark and St. John both begin with that event as being the first one of importance in Christ’s career. The principal holy days in the early church were Christmas (the birth of Christ), the Epiphany (the coming of the Magi to Bethlehem), Good Friday (day of crucifixion), Easter (day of resurrection) and Ascension Day followed by Pentecost (when the Holy Spirit descended upon the infant church with tongues). Christendom did not begin to date its years from the birth of Christ until almost 550 A.D., when the method was introduced by Dionysius Exiguus, a learned monk of Rome. In the 3rd century, the Western countries came to think of Christ as a god from birth, each of the four Gospel narratives testifying to this. This thought spread through the Mediterranean regions, but never reached the Far East. To the early church, Christmas from the start “bore the mark of being of Roman creation.” Between Dec. 25 and the Roman Calends were 12 days, which gradually came to be revered as Twelve Holy Days. Centuries later they were called Twelve Nights. Days were not reckoned by the early Germans, but nights were. St. John Chryostom, writing in 386, said Julian made an extensive investigation of the correct birthday of Christ and found that the Western churches all considered Dec. 25 as the Nativity date, although the Eastern churches claimed Jan. 6. There were scattering opinions that the birth of Christ should be observed April 20, May 20, March 29 and Sept. 29. St. Chryostom wrote, “They called this Dec. 25, the birthday of the Invincible One (Mithras); but who was so invincible as the Lord? They call it the Birthday of the Solar Disc; but Christ is the Son of Righteousness.” Julian, basing his opinion on the majority, went ahead and decreed Dec. 25 as the Nativity date for Christ. This was readily accepted by most churches because it had always been a holiday of some sort. Nevertheless, the Armenians did not accept Dec. 25 until after the World War. During these centuries they retained January 6 as the Christmas celebration time. (To be continued) County-wide recycling options explored by David DeDecker Staff Writer Local residents gathered at the Barry County Commission on Aging Nov. 29 to discuss how the county can develop a comprehensive recycling program, what the program should look like, and how to pay for it. The Barry County Solid Waste Oversight Committee has not yet made a decision concerning a county-wide recycling program. Grand Valley State University was asked by the committee to help with an assessment and then report recycling activity in Barry County. The objective of the partnership is to gather data and then develop a user-friendly and sustainable recycling plan for the county. Speaker Kim Walton of GVSU guided participants through a variety of recycling models. She is a program coordinator for GVSU’s Michigan Alternative and Renewable Energy Center. According to Walton, 21 of Michigan’s 83 counties have comprehensive recycling programs. In Barry County, 45 percent of residents have no recycling facilities available. However, the county recycles 135 tons of material per year through curbside pickup, 216 tons dropped off at township recycling sites and 320 tons from commercial ventures. So, with only 55 percent of Barry County having access to recycling services, 671 tons are diverted from the landfill each year and potentially used to make other products. Walton summarized five different recycling models, but ultimately each model came down to cost. Walton reminded participants there is a cost to all material entering the waste stream, whether or not it is reclaimed by recycling. Transportation and staffing are the two main costs. Volunteer time may cut staffing costs, as will using inmates or people sentenced to community service. Transportation of waste has many variables, she said. Funding can come from a variety of sources. Walton said the sale of recycling materials gathered typically brings in about one-third of the recycling program’s cost. In Allegan County households pay a fee of $25 to $50 per year for recycling. In Eaton County each house with trash pickup pays $7.20 for recycling. Other counties have “pay to throw” fees each time a person brings recycling to a site. Money to cover costs can also come from the sale of sorted materials. The first model Walton reviewed would require county-wide policy change. The model requires all waste haulers to offer recycling if they offer curbside service. Each hauler must record and report the weight of recyclable materials they have gathered, and they must promote the recycling service. This levels the playing field, said Walton. Homeowners under this model would be charged $40 to $72 for curbside recycling. Walton said many rural haulers are not happy when required to offer the service. The second model, a pay-per use plan, also requires county-wide policy change. This program charges less, she said, since the amount of landfill garbage goes down and the amount of recycling goes up. Walton said this model is a great incentive to increase recycling in areas, but as changes occur, the demand for different customer containers also increases. In the third model, townships set up and fund drop-off sites through local funding. Walton said this model is expensive and becomes more expensive as recycling rates go up. She said it also provides uneven coverage within a county and is subject to abuse by non-residents. The fourth model is a county-wide staffed drop-off site in which haulers are paid to pull the recycling bins on a regular schedule and take to a sorting facility. This model would require county-wide funding and would be available to all county residents. Again, this model is expensive to operate and requires at least a part-time staff. A county-wide staffed drop-off site in which the materials are marketed and sold is the fifth model she presented. Although partially funded by the sale of materials, all county residents would still be charged an amount for the system. However, as the price for recyclables sold goes up, the cost to the county and presumably each resident would go down. The model requires a building, material-handling equipment and a full-time staff. The final model presented is a regional system set up through cooperation of county governments. This model has the economy of scale, but may also have higher transportation fees. County cooperation may also slow down the implementation timeline, she said. Walton then compared the demographics of Eaton County to Barry County and what a recycling program in Barry County would look like if modeled after Eaton County’s successful program. Eaton has a population of 108,056 with 47,163 households, compared to Barry at 59,899 and 27,090, respectively. In 2011, Eaton County recycled 916 tons and Barry County, 812 tons. Eaton County currently charges each household $7.20 whether or not they use the recycling service. Walton said the annual surcharge yields $249,470. Waste hauler fees paid to the county currently are $1,245 for a total income of $252, 010. Plus the revenue generated from sale of recycled materials, which Walton estimates at $60,000, adds up to a total revenue of $312,010. If Barry County would implement a similar model, it would generate $95,048 in revenue from a $7.20 surcharge to all households. Current waste hauler fees would add another $1,000, she said, and estimated sales revenue from collected recyclables would be $80,343, for a total revenue of $176,391. At the end of the gathering Walton had participants fill out surveys. Surveys are also available for county residents at www.barrycounty.org/barry-county-solid-waste-committee. The Michigan Recycling Coalition, in its recent report, said that if Michigan could move forward to a 30 percent recycling rate, it would create 7,000 to 13,000 jobs, up to $300 million in income, $3.9 billion in receipts and as much as $22 million in additional state tax revenue. MRC Executive Director Kerrin O’Brien said in the report, “An investment of less than $8 per capita can yield nearly $500 million or about $50 per capita. This tells us how much a statewide recycling program would cost and how much we can expect in return. It’s a worthwhile investment.” For more information or to read the entire MRC report, go to www.michiganrecycles.org. Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads PUBLIC NOTICE GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Readers were greeted with Christmas card ads like this from Finkbeiner Implement Company. Finkbeiner Implement was on Russell Street just west of the Thornapple River. Call 945-9554 for more information. Report on Lead and Copper Monitoring for 2012 The municipality listed below did not successfully complete lead and copper monitoring requirements prior to September 30, 2012. This information is required under the Safe Drinking Water Act 1976, PA 399, as amended; R 325.10710, Collection and analysis of samples for inorganic chemicals; R 325.10734, Required reporting to the department of the 1979 Administrative Code. City of Hastings Department of Public Services Water Treatment Plant 135 West Mill Street Hastings, MI 49058 Violation – In accordance with R 325.10710a, lead and copper in tap water; monitoring requirements, acidification of first draw samples must be completed within 14 days after the same is collected to resolubilize the metals. The City of Hastings collected 21 water tap samples during the summer of 2012. Eleven (11) of the samples collected were analyzed successfully and none of the results exceeded the EPA’s action levels for lead and copper. However, ten (10) of the samples were not analyzed because they arrived at the laboratory after the 14 day time period during which they needed to be acidified. This is a violation of Administrative Rule R 325.10710a. Corrective Action Taken – To return to compliance, the City of Hastings must successfully complete monitoring requirements for lead and copper during June, July, August, or September of 2013. Compliance Status – The City of Hastings is in non-compliance with R 325.10710, Collection and analysis of water samples for inorganic chemicals (lead and copper). Tim Girrbach, Director of Public Services 77572919 �Page 10 — Thursday, December 6, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Donald J. Daldos and Janice M. Daldos, husband and wife as joint tenants, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated November 10, 2004, and recorded on November 23, 2004 in instrument 1137660, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Seven Thousand Five Hundred Sixty-Four and 35/100 Dollars ($137,564.35). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on December 20, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Baltimore, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel B: That part of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 14, Town 2 North, Range 8 West, described as: Commencing at the East 1/4 corner of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West 659.50 feet along the East line of said Southeast 1/4 to the place of beginning; thence South 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West 329.75 feet; thence South 89 degrees 41 minutes 11 seconds West 1306.24 feet; thence North 00 degrees 18 minutes 32 seconds East 329.92 feet along the West line of the Northeast 1/4 of said Southeast 1/4; thence North 89 degrees 41 minutes 36 seconds East 1304.76 feet to the place of beginning. Subject to highway rights of way for Charlton Park Road The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 22, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #413865F01 77572509 (11-22)(12-13) IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT 248-502-1400. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Judy McMillan and Ronald McMillan wife and husband, to Centex Home Equity Company, LLC, Mortgagee, dated October 26, 2005 and recorded November 9, 2005 in Instrument Number 1156026, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Soundview Home Loan Trust 2006-2 by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Seventy-Six Thousand Seven Hundred Eleven and 50/100 Dollars ($176,711.50) including interest at 8.8% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 01/03/2013. Said premises are located in the Township of Assyria, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The following described premises situated in the Township of Assyria, County of Barry and State of Michigan: The Northeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 15, Town 1 North, Range 7 West. EXCEPT: The North 544.5 feet of the East 400 feet of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 15, Town 1 North, Range 7 West. Subject to an easement for public highway purposes over the Northerly 33 feet thereof for Cox Road, and over the Easterly 33 feet thereof for Guy Road. This property may be located within the vicinity of farm land or farm operation. Generally accepted agricultural and management practices which may generate noise, dust, odors, and other associated conditions may be used and are protected by the Michigan Right to Farm Act. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: December 6, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 306.4731 (12-06)(12-27) 77572885 MORTGAGE SALE AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTIFY US AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by ELMER L HOLBROOK, JR. , A SINGLE MAN, Mortgagors, to Bank of America NA, Mortgagee, dated the 12th day of June, 2006 and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, for The County of Barry and State of Michigan, on the 16th day of June, 2006 in Liber Instrument No. 1166074 of Barry County Records, page , said Mortgage having been assigned to Green Tree Servicing LLC on which mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, the sum of Ninety Three Thousand Two Hundred Eleven & 41/100 ($93,211.41), and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on the 3rd day of January, 2013 at 1:00 PM o’clock Local Time, said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI (that being the building where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held), of the premises described in said mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due, as aforesaid on said mortgage, with interest thereon at 7.125% per annum and all legal costs, charges, and expenses, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sum or sums which may be paid by the undersigned, necessary to protect its interest in the premises. Which said premises are described as follows: All that certain piece or parcel of land, including any and all structures, and homes, manufactured or otherwise, located thereon, situated in the Township of Castleton, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and described as follows, to wit: THE EAST 51 FEET OF LOT NUMBER 69 OF 0. A. PHILLIPS ADDITION TO THE VILLAGE OF NASHVILLE, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF, ALSO, A PARCEL OF LAND DESCRIBED AS: COMMENCING AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF LOT 69 OF 0. A. PHILLIPS ADDITION TO THE VILLAGE OF NASHVILLE FOR THE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE WEST 51 FEET; THENCE NORTH TO THE SOUTH BANK OF THE THORNAPPLE RIVER; THENCE EAST ALONG THE BANK OF THE THORNAPPLE RIVER TO A POINT NORTH OF THE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE SOUTH TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. ALSO, A PARCEL OF LAND DESCRIBED AS COMMENCING AT A POINT WHICH LIES 232 FEET EAST OF THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF LOT 67 OF 0. A. PHILLIPS ADDITION TO THE VILLAGE OF NASHVILLE FOR THE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE EAST 53 FEET; THENCE NORTH TO THE SOUTH BANK OF THE THORNAPPLE RIVER; THENCE WEST 53 FEET; THENCE SOUTH TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING During the six (6) months immediately following the sale, the property may be redeemed, except that in the event that the property is determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241a, the property may be redeemed during 30 days immediately following the sale. Pursuant to MCLA 600.3278, the mortgagor(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 12/6/2012 Green Tree Servicing LLC Mortgagee FABRIZIO & BROOK, P.C. Attorney for Green Tree Servicing LLC 888 W. Big Beaver, Suite 800 Troy, Ml 48084 248-362-2600 GTSD FNMA HolbrookElm 77572873 (12-06)(12-27) This is an attempt to collect a debt, and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Please contact our office at the number below if you are in active military duty. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by RONALD K. HARNEY and JODI L. HARNEY, husband and wife, Mortgagors, to INDEPENDENT MORTGAGE CO. WEST MI, with offices at 4200 East Beltline, Grand Rapids, MI 49525, Mortgagee, dated January 8, 2007 and recorded January 9, 2007 in Instrument No. 1174850 and Modification Agreement recorded in Instrument No. 201004190004052 of Mortgages, Page which was assigned to INDEPENDENT BANK of 4200 East Beltline, Grand Rapids, Michigan, by Assignment recorded in Instrument No. 2012-005873. By reason of such default the undersigned elects to declare the entire unpaid amount of said mortgage due and payable forthwith. At the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on said mortgage the sum of ONE HUNDRED SIXTEEN THOUSAND THREE and 14/100 ($116,003.14) dollars including interest at the rate of 5.0% per annum. No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided and to pay said amount with interest as provided in said mortgage, and all legal costs, charges, and expenses, including attorney fees allowed by law, said mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the east door of the Barry County Courthouse, the place of holding the Circuit Court within the County of Barry, City of Hastings, Michigan, on January 17, 2013, at 1:00 p.m., local time. Pursuant to Public Act No. 104, Public Acts of 1971, MCLA 600.3240, MSA 27A.3240, the redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of the foreclosure sale, unless the property is determined to be abandoned under MCLA 600.3241a; MSA 27A.3241(1), in which case the property may be redeemed during the 30 days immediately following the sale or expiration of statutory notice period. The premises covered by said mortgage are situated in the Township of Castleton, County of Barry, State of Michigan, described as follows, to wit: Beginning at a point on the East and West 1/4 line of Section 33, Town 3 North, Range 7 West, Castleton Township, Barry County, Michigan, distant South 89 degrees 51'07" East 218.82 feet from the West 1/4 corner of said section; thence North 00 degrees 03'57" West 305.27 feet; thence South 89 degrees 51'07" East 325.84 feet (also described as 325.64 feet); thence South 00 degrees 03'57" East 305.27 feet to said East and West 1/4 line; thence North 89 degrees 51'07" West 325.64 feet along said 1/4 line to the point of beginning. Except and subject to an easement for public highway purposes for Highway M-79 (formerly Scott Road) as described in the document in Liber 238 of Deeds on Page 77. INDEPENDENT BANK, Assignee of INDEPENDENT MORTGAGE CO. WEST MI SCHENK, BONCHER & RYPMA Curtis D. Rypma P44421 601 Three Mile Road, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49544-1601 77572899 (616) 647-8277 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Bonnie Clark a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Great Lakes Mortgage Company, LLC, Mortgagee, dated May 21, 2003, and recorded on August 15, 2003 in instrument 1111025, and modified by Affidavit or Order received by and recorded, and assigned to Fifth Third Mortgage Company as further evidenced in a Affidavit Of Lost Assignment dated September 18, 2012 recorded on September 26, 2012 in instrument 2012-004994, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy Thousand Three Hundred Fifteen and 10/100 Dollars ($70,315.10). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on December 20, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 44 of The Andrews Addition to the City, formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 22, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #402153F01 77572515 (11-22)(12-13) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Chadwick M. Castine, a single man and Sharon Sinkler, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated December 24, 2004, and recorded on December 29, 2004 in instrument 1139383, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Seven Thousand Four Hundred Sixteen and 75/100 Dollars ($107,416.75). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on January 3, 2013. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 22, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, described as: Commencing at the intersection of the centerline of Finkbeiner Road and the North line of said Section which is 748.40 feet North 88 degrees 53 minutes 45 seconds East for the North 1/4 corner of said Section; thence South 42 degrees 11 minutes 15 seconds East 410.00 feet along the centerline of Finkbeiner Road, thence South 47 degrees 48 minutes 45 seconds West 260.00 feet; thence North 42 degrees 11 minutes 15 seconds West 410.00 thence North 47 degrees 48 minutes 15 seconds East 260.00 feet to the place of beginning: Except that part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 22, Town 4 North, Range 10 described as: Commencing at the North 1/4 corner of said Section; West thence North 88 degrees 53 minutes 45 seconds East 748.40 feet along the North line of said Section thence South 42 degrees 11 minutes 15 seconds East 256.0 feet along the centerline of Finkbeiner Road to the place of beginning; thence continuing South 42 degrees 11 minutes 15 seconds East 154.0 feet along centerline; thence South 47 degrees 48 minutes 45 seconds West 260.00 feet; thence North 42 degrees 11 minutes 15 seconds West 154.0 feet; thence North 47 degrees 48 minutes 45 seconds East 260.0 feet to the place of beginning. Subject to highway right of way for highway purposes over that part lying Northeasterly of a line which is 33 feet Southwesterly from and parallel with the centerline of Finkbeiner Road The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: December 6, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #412369F01 77572750 (12-06)(12-27) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Lena Thunder Aleman, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Charter One Bank, N.A., Mortgagee, dated May 5, 2005, and recorded on May 16, 2005 in instrument 1146513, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Four Thousand One Hundred Eighty-Eight and 19/100 Dollars ($124,188.19). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on December 20, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Assyria, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel in the Northeast one quarter of Section 34, Town 1 North, Range 7 West described as: Commencing at the Southwest corner of the West one half of the East one half of the Northeast one quarter of said Section 34; thence East 440 feet 5 inches for place of beginning; thence North 495 feet 5 inches; thence East 219 feet 7 inches; thence South 495 feet 5 inches; thence West to place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 22, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #410702F01 77572521 (11-22)(12-13) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by David T. Gross and April I. Gross, as husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to SBC Mortgage, LLC, Mortgagee, dated December 10, 2001, and recorded on January 9, 2002 in instrument 1072786, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Chemical Bank f/k/a Chemical Bank and Trust Company as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Nine Thousand Nine Hundred Eighty-Five and 73/100 Dollars ($69,985.73). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on December 13, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Beginning at the Southeast corner of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 16, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, thence West 206.25 feet, thence North 206.25 feet, thence East 206.25 feet, thence South 206.25 feet to beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 15, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #404590F04 77572451 (11-15)(12-06) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Douglas R. Baker and Melissa M. Baker, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Washington Mutual Bank, FA, Mortgagee, dated April 27, 2007, and recorded on May 3, 2007 in instrument 1180067, and modified by Affidavit or Order executed on March 1, 2012 and recorded on March 29, 2012 in instrument 201203290003158, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Forty-Nine Thousand Nine Hundred Forty-Nine and 58/100 Dollars ($249,949.58). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on December 27, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the North 1/4 post of Section 13, Town 2 North, Range 10 West; thence South 89 degrees 44 minutes 37 seconds East, on the North line of said section, 1322.10 feet to the North 1/8 post of the Northeast 1/4 of said Section 13; thence continuing South 89 degrees 44 minutes 37 seconds East on said North line 774.23 feet to the point of beginning of the parcel of land herein described; thence continuing South 89 degrees 44 minutes 37 seconds East, on said North line, 547.87 feet to the Northeast corner of said section; thence South 00 degrees 32 minutes 18 seconds West, on the East line of said Northeast 1/4, 1322.90 feet, to the East and West 1/8 line of the Northeast 1/4; thence North 89 degrees 26 minutes 27 seconds West, on said East-West 1/8 line, 1325.07 feet to the North and South 1/8 line of the Northeast 1/4; thence North 00 degrees 40 minutes 03 seconds East, on said 1/8 line, 75.18 feet; thence North 87 degrees 15 minutes 02 seconds East, along an existing fence line and tree row, 811.90 feet to a point about 10 feet West of an existing fence line and tree row; thence North 01 degrees 03 minutes 05 seconds West, parallel with said fence line and tree row, 1208.45 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 29, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #329971F02 77572767 (11-29)(12-20) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Pieter L. Boer aka Pieter Boer, a married man and Michelle M. Boer aka Michelle Boer, his wife, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Birmingham Bancorp Mortgage Corporation its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated June 15, 2007, and recorded on July 17, 2007 in instrument 1183038, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fifty-Two Thousand Three Hundred Fifty-Seven and 68/100 Dollars ($152,357.68). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on December 13, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner of Section 25, Town 1 North, Range 10 West, and running thence South 00 degrees 21 minutes 32 seconds West, 1063.95 feet; thence South 87 degrees 35 minutes 50 seconds East 690.44 feet for the place of beginning of land herein after described; thence continuing South 87 degrees 35 minutes 50 seconds East, 309.56 feet; thence South 34 degrees 59 minutes 27 seconds West 324.39 feet; thence on a nontangent curve to the right with a radius of 531.16 feet; a central angle of 18 degrees 11 minutes 32 seconds, chord bearing a distance of North 55 degrees 04 minutes 11 seconds West, 59.97 feet a distance of 60 feet thence continuing on a curve to the right with a radius of 185.65 feet, a central angle of 46 degrees 37 minutes 28 seconds, chord bearing and distance North 28 degrees 31 minutes 28 seconds, West 146.94 feet, a distance of 151.07 feet; thence North 05 degrees 12 minutes 34 seconds West, 70.01 feet; thence on a curve to the right with a radius of 159.28 feet; a central angle of 16 degrees 28 minutes 14 seconds chord bearing and distance North 03 degrees 01 minutes 33 seconds East 45.65 feet, a distance of 45.79 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 15, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #364848F02 77572328 (11-15)(12-06) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, December 6, 2012 — Page 11 Fleury chosen as 2012 Athena Award winner Rebecca Fleury Shauna Swantek Celebrating the principles and the inspirational qualities of the Greek goddess Athena, the Barry County Chamber of Commerce has named Rebecca Fleury, manager and director of finance for the Village of Middleville, as its 2012 Athena Leadership Award recipient. Fleury is Barry County’s fourth winner in a program that started in Lansing in 1982 and is now based in Chicago as Athena International. The Athena Leadership Award honors outstanding professionals for excellence in their fields and who provide valuable service to their communities by serving as role models to women in the attainment of professional goals and leadership skills. The local award review committee also recognized Shauna Lea Swantek as its 2012 Athena Young Professional Leader for Barry County. Swantek is the executive director of Putnam District Library in Nashville. “The review committee put great thought and discussion into its decision to honor Rebecca and Shauna as well-deserved Athena Award recipients,” noted Valerie Byrnes president of the Barry County Chamber. “All the nominees presented to the committee are worthy and amazing leaders within Barry County. I speak for all committee members when I say it is a humbling process to read the stories behind those that serve in leadership roles within our community.” Fleury was nominated by Jean Lamoreaux, event coordinator with the Village of Middleville. A variety of staff members and community leaders added their input with support letters that accompanied Lamoreaux’s nomination. “In my opinion, she is the perfect candidate for the Athena Award,” read Catherine Getty’s support letter. “She fully represents the highest level of professional excellence with a strong commitment of her time and energy to improving the quality of life for Middleville residents, while encouraging those around her to reach their full leadership potential, as well.” Fleury was hired by the Village of Middleville in January 2011, creating a teamoriented staff with a common vision and passion for serving the community. She received a master’s of public administration-local government degree from Western Michigan University while working full-time as the financial service manager for the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety. Fleury is involved with state and regional professional organizations and locally contributes her expertise as a board member of the Barry County Economic Development Alliance, treasurer of the Middleville Rotary Club, a solicitor with Barry County United Way and as a member of the Barry County Solid Waste Oversight Committee. Fleury and her husband, Matt, have been married for 23 years. The couple has two children, Ryan, 19, and, Jamie, 16. The Athena Young Professional Leadership Award was designed to recognize emerging women leaders who demonstrate excellence, creativity and initiative in their profession who provide valuable service to improve the quality of life for others in the community and who clearly serve as role models for young women both personally and professionally. Swantek, who was nominated by Emily Mater and Kathleen Welch, joined the Putnam District Library as director in December 2007, bringing a personal approach to leadership while cultivating a shared vision and personal connections with patrons and staff that have enhanced the quality of the library experience. As a former high school English teacher, Swantek has a special connection with teens. In 2009, she started a teen advisory group at Putnam District Library, providing teens the opportunity to contribute to the betterment of library programs while having a positive influence within the community. Swantek’s current community leadership involvement includes serving on the Barry Community Foundation Board since 2009, as board member at large on the Thornapple Arts Council and on the advisory council for Navigate, Barry County College Access Network, as a participant on the Barry County Broadband Initiative. The two Athena Award recipients will be recognized and honored at the chamber’s annual dinner Saturday, Jan. 26, 2013, at Yarrow Golf and Conference Center. The event, hosted by the Barry County Chamber of Commerce and open to Chamber members, prospective-members and community leaders, is a celebration of business and leadership in Barry County. Friends and family of 2012 Athena Award recipients are welcomed and encouraged to attend. The chamber will also present annual awards recognizing Chamber members for their service and success in Barry County. Reservations can be made to attend the annual dinner by contacting the Chamber at 269945-2454 prior to Jan. 7. Lakewood Area Choral Society presents final 2012 performance As the finale for its 27th year, the Lakewood Area Choral Society will present a concert of sacred and secular Christmas music at Lakewood High School Fine Arts Auditorium Sunday, Dec. 16, at 3 p.m. Dr. Robert C. Oster conducts the 112member adult choir, more than 90 of whom will be singing in this concert, entitled Angels We have Heard on High. The choir will be accompanied by Joy French. On various numbers, she will be joined by Lisa Bondarenko on piano and keyboard, and Cathie Ott on flute. Lisa Sterkenberg, president of the society, noted that attendees will not only get to hear a semi-professional adult choir singing a variety of Christmas music, they will also be treated to solos and ensembles, and have the opportunity to join in on sing-along numbers. Secular numbers by the choir include two songs from the movie “Home Alone 2,” “Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas” and “Somewhere in My Memory,” which will feature a quintet of LACS members Anna Williams, Lisa Bondarenko, Jon Cleveland, Marty Snoap and Larry Ott. “Somewhere in My Memory” will also feature a special video collage of childhood photos of LACS members. The choir will once again present its audience-participation version of “The Twelve Days of Christmas.” Among the sacred songs to be performed are traditional favorites such as “Angels We Have Heard on High,” “Adoration Suite” and “Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming,” as well as many others. The What Four Quartet will perform Mr. Santa” and “Never Saw You in the Twilight.” Members of the quartet include sopranos Sterkenburg and Williams and altos, Bondarenko and Nola Payne. Solo performances include “Ring the Bells” by soprano Janet James, and “Leise Rieselt der Schnee,” a German Christmas folk song, performed by tenor Klaus Schmidt. In lieu of tickets, a freewill donation will be collected. “With all this and more, the public is encouraged to attend,” Sterkenberg said. Call anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads 269-945-9554 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Betty L. Rosendall Trust Notice to all Creditors: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: Betty L. Rosendall, who lived at the 3320 Elmwood Beach Drive, Middleville, MI 49333, died November 10, 2012. The decedent died without probate assets. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the decedent or the Betty L. Rosendall Trust will be forever barred unless presented to Fifth Third Bank, a Michigan Banking Corporation, named Trustee, care of: Linda M. Johnson, Fifth Third Bank, 111 Lyon St. NW, MD #RMNR4A, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 12-6-12 Fifth Third Bank C/o Linda M. Johnson, MD #RMNR4A 111 Lyon St. NW 77572878 Grand Rapids, MI 49503 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate Estate of CLIFFORD A. CRAVEN. Date of birth: 06/30/1935. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: the decedent, CLIFFORD A. CRAVEN, died 11/21/2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to WANDA ALLERDING, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 WEST COURT STREET, HASTINGS and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 11/27/2012 TIMOTHY L. TROMP P41571 501 WEST STATE STREET HASTINGS, MICHIGAN 49058 (269) 948-9400 WANDA ALLERDING 600 EAST BROWN ROAD FREEPORT, MICHIGAN 49325 77572744 (616) 765-5107 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 2012-26230-DE Estate of DORIS MAE DEWEY. Date of Birth: October 16, 1926. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, DORIS MAE DEWEY, died October 12, 2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to DEBRA KNIGHT AND LINDA WOODEN, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West Court, Suite 302, Hastings, MI 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. DAVID H. TRIPP P29290 206 SOUTH BROADWAY HASTINGS, MI 49058 (269) 945-9585 DEBRA KNIGHT AND LINDA WOODEN 310 SCRIBNER STREET, DELTON, MI 49046 10797 NORTH SHORE DRIVE, DELTON, MI 49046 IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT 248-502-1502. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Warren Searles, Charlotte Searles, husband and wife and Thomas J. Alvey and Christina N. Alvey, husband and wife, to Fifth Third Mortgage - MI, LLC, Mortgagee, dated August 10, 2005 and recorded October 20, 2005 in Instrument Number 1154900, and , Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Fifth Third Mortgage Company by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Nine Thousand Eighty-Five and 59/100 Dollars ($109,085.59) including interest at 6.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 PM on JANUARY 3, 2013. Said premises are located in the Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The land referred to is situated in the Township of Hope, County of Barry, State of Michigan, is described as follows:Parcel C: That part of the South 64 rods of the Southeast 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 27, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, described as: Commencing at the Southeast corner of said Section 27; thence North 88 degrees 59 minutes 06 seconds West on the South Section line 867.54 feet; thence North 0 degrees 31 minutes 30 seconds East 534.59 feet; thence North 3 degrees 03 minutes 18 seconds East 30.26 feet to the Place of Beginning of the parcel of land herein described; thence North 3 degrees 03 minutes 18 seconds East 491.48 feet; thence South 88 degrees 59 minutes 06 seconds East parallel to the South Section line 481.53 feet; thence South 1 degree 15 minutes 00 seconds West 491.40 feet; thence North 88 degrees 59 minutes 06 seconds West parallel to the South section line 498.34 feet to the Place of Beginning. Together with and subject to an easement for ingress, egress and public utilities over a 66 foot wide strip of land the centerline of said easement being described as commencing at the Southeast corner of said Section 27, thence North 88 degrees 59 minutes 06 seconds West 867.54 feet to the Point of Beginning of said easement; thence the centerline of said easement runs North 0 degrees 31 minutes 30 seconds East 534.59 feet; thence North 3 degrees 03 minutes 18 seconds East 250.56 feet to the Point of Beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: December 6, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C.. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007 File No. 12-510737 77572910 (12-06)(12-27) SYNOPSIS PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP Special Meeting October 30, 2012 Supervisor J. Stoneburner called the meeting to order at 3:00 p.m. Present: Supervisor J. Stoneburner, Treasurer K. McGuire, Clerk DeVries, Trustee Grundy and Trustee R. Goebel Absent: none Also present were 0 guests. Pledge of allegiance and a moment of silence for our troops Agenda was approved. No Minutes to approve. Correspondence, if any, was read. Public Comment, if any, was received. Approved correction in the description of the proposed Pine Lake Aquatic Plant Control Project. Approved a new public hearing date of November 27, 2012 Approved the 2012 total appraised value for the jointly owned BPH fire department land. Approved the 2012 total appraised value for the jointly owned BPH fire department equipment/trucks. Public comments, if any, were received. Board comments were received. Meeting adjourned at 3:25 p.m. Submitted by: Ted DeVries, Clerk Attested to by: 77572869 Jim Stoneburner, Supervisor CIRCUIT COURT SALE BELOW WILL BE ADJOURNED FROM December 6, 2012 TO December 13, 2012 Case No. 12-141-CH CIRCUIT COURT SALE In pursuance and by virtue of a Judgment of the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on the 17th day of July A.D., 2012 in a certain cause therein pending, wherein THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-9 was the Plaintiff and Teresa Herlein and Duane T. Herlein were the Defendants. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that I shall sell at public auction to the highest bidder, at public venue, at the Barry County Courthouse (that being the place of holding the Circuit Court for said County), on the 29th day of November, A.D., 2012 at 1 pm o’clock in the forenoon, Eastern Standard Time, the following described property, viz: All certain piece or parcel of land situated in the Township of Thornapple, County of Barry and State of Michigan, described as follows: Lot 8, Near Lane Estates No. 1, as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats, Page 7, Barry County Records Tax ID: 14-140-0008-00 Commonly known as: 12942 Near Lane, Caledonia, MI 49316 This property may be redeemed during the six (6) months following the sale. Dated: October 4, 2012 Mark Sheldon Deputy Sheriff Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Ronald S. Glaser (P46986) Attorneys for Plaintiff 43252 Woodward Ave., Suite 180 Bloomfield Hills, MI 77572756 48302 (248) 335-9200 (12-6) SYNOPSIS PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP Regular Meeting November 14, 2012 Supervisor J. Stoneburner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Present: Supervisor J. Stoneburner, Treasurer K. McGuire, Clerk DeVries, Trustee Grundy and Trustee R. Goebel Absent: none Also present were 6 guests. Pledge of allegiance and a moment of silence for our troops Agenda was approved. Minutes from the October 10, 2012 and October 30, 2012 were approved. Correspondence, if any, was read. Public Comment, if any, was received. Barry County Commissioner report was given. Parks Report was given. Fire Departments report was placed on file. Police Department report was placed on file. Supervisor’s Report was received. Treasurer’s Report was received. Clerk’s Report was received. Approved to pay Township bills for $29,192.52 Approved the Resolution regarding Oak Drive Special Assessment District No. 04-1 Approved the Insurance Policy renewal with Burnham & Flowers Approved the quote for snow plowing for fall 2012 through spring 2013 Approved the budget meeting schedule in January Approved sending Clerk DeVries to the New Officials Training Phase 1 Approved the leave of absence for Chip & Karen Vickery from the Prairieville Twp Fire Dept Public comments, if any, were received. Board comments, if any, were received. Meeting adjourned at 8:18 p.m. Submitted by: Ted DeVries, Clerk Attested to by: 77572871 Jim Stoneburner, Supervisor FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: James Shoebridge and Janice L. Shoebridge, a Married Couple to CitiFinancial, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 27, 2006 and recorded August 4, 2006 in Instrument # 1168134 Barry County Records, Michigan on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Nine Thousand Three Hundred Fifteen Dollars and Fourteen Cents ($99,315.14) including interest 6% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on December 13, 2012 Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots numbers 379, and the East one-quarter of Lot 380, of the City (formerly Village) of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded Plat thereof. Commonly known as 414 W Mill St., Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 11/15/2012 CitiFinancial, Inc. Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-70642 (11-15)(12-06) NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Trust In Re: Georgia E. Otis, deceased. Date of birth: June 28, 1928. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Georgia E. Otis, who formerly resided at 61 Culbert Drive, Hastings, Michigan 49058 died October 5, 2012. Successor Trustee of the GEORGIA E. OTIS REVOCABLE LIVING TRUST under agreement dated January 3, 2011, gives notice to all creditors of the decedent that all claims against the Trust will be forever barred unless presented to Elaine Hammontree and/or Thomas Otis, whose address is 1455 Culbert Dr., Hastings, MI 49058 and P.O. Box 11, Gobles, MI 49055, respectively, the named Successor Trustees for said trust within four (4) months after the date of publication of this notice. Dated: November 21, 2012 Elaine Hammontree Successor Trustee 1455 Culbert Dr. Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 948-3902 Thomas Otis Successor Trustee P.O. Box 11 Gobles, MI 49055 77572897 (269) 628-5292 NOTICE OF JUDICIAL FORECLOSURE SALE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE IF YOU ARE A BORROWER ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY ATTENTION PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the circuit court at the request of the plaintiff. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest, as determined by the court. Barry County Circuit Court Case No. 10-618CH NOTICE OF JUDICIAL SALE JUDICIAL SALE IN PURSUANCE and by virtue of Judgment(s) and/or Order(s) of foreclosure in the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on the 12th day of January, 2012, in a certain cause therein pending, wherein HSBC Mortgage Services, Inc. was the Plaintiff and Jeff Schantz was the defendant. The aforementioned Judgment(s) and/or Order(s) established a debt owing to Plaintiff in the amount of $127,979.10, plus post-judgment interest at an annual rate of 8.125% and other amounts recoverable pursuant to said Judgment(s) and/or Order(s). NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that in order to satisfy said Judgment(s) and/or Order(s), in whole or in part, the property described below shall be sold at public auction, by an authorized sheriff / deputy sheriff or county Clerk/Deputy county Clerk, to the highest bidder, at the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, on the 24th of January, 2013 at 1:00 PM, local time. On said day at said time, the following described property shall be sold: property located in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, particularly described as The West 1/2 of Lots 1302 and 1303 of the City, Formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof.. Tax Parcel ID: 08-55-201-447-00 More commonly known as: 227 W South St, REDEMPTION PERIOD IS SIX MONTHS. For more information please call 248.642.2515. Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys for Plaintiff 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334-2525 T# 329389L02 77572736 (12-06)(01-10) NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE STEPHEN L. LANGELAND, P.C. A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTENTION PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has occurred in a Mortgage made by Jason E. Gleason and Frances J. Gleason to Omni Family Credit Union n/k/a Omni Community Credit Union dated December 12, 2002, and recorded on December 18, 2002 at Document No. 1093911 Barry County Records. No proceedings have been instituted to recover any part of the debt, secured by the mortgage or any part thereof and the amount now claimed to be due on the debt is $76,734.93. The Mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the property at public auction to the highest bidder, for cash, on December 13, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., local time, at the East entrance, Barry County Courthouse, Hastings, Michigan. The property will be sold to pay the amount then due on the Mortgage, together with interest at 5.75% per annum, legal costs, attorney fees, and also any taxes or insurance or other advances and expenses due under mortgage or permitted under Michigan law. The property to be sold is described as: Located in Barry County, Michigan: A tract of land commencing at the SW corner of the SE 1/4 of S9, T1N, R7W; thence N 400 feet; thence E 300 feet; Thence S 400 feet; thence W 300 feet to the point of beginning. Which has the address of: 7543 Cox Rd., Bellevue, MI 49021. During the six months immediately following the sale the property may be redeemed, unless determined to be abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241(a), in which case the redemption period shall be thirty (30) days from the date of sale. Dated: November 12, 2012 OMNI Community Credit Union By: Stephen L. Langeland (P32583) BUSINESS ADDRESS: Stephen L. Langeland, P.C. Attorney at Law 6146 W. Main St., Ste. C Kalamazoo, MI 49009 77572464 269/382-3703 NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF RIVERSIDE CEMETERY COMPANY OF HASTINGS, MICHIGAN A special meeting of the owners, partners, members, and stockholders of Riverside Cemetery Company of Hastings, Michigan will be held on the 7th day of December, 2012 at Three o’clock in the afternoon at 231 South Broadway, Hastings, Michigan for the purpose of authorizing the transfer of Riverside Cemetery to the City of Hastings. October 29, 2012 RIVERSIDE CEMETERY COMPANY OF HASTINGS, MICHIGAN 1003 West State Road Hastings, Michigan 49058 77572165 �Page 12 — Thursday, December 6, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Robin Clemens and Timothy J. Clemens, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Beneficial Michigan Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 7, 2005, and recorded on January 10, 2005 in instrument 1139992, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Fourteen Thousand Two Hundred Three and 85/100 Dollars ($114,203.85). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on December 13, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 9 and Lot 10, Block 12 of Daniel Striker's Addition except the West 1/2 of Lot 9, according to the recorded Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats of Page 11. Subject to easements, building and use restrictions of record. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 15, 2012 For more information, please call: FC H (248) 593-1300 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #413940F01 77572434 (11-15)(12-06) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Robert Frisbie and Terry Frisbie, Husband and Wife to HouseHold Finance Corporation III, Mortgagee, dated August 14, 2007 and recorded August 22, 2007 in Instrument # 20070822-0001177 Barry County Records, Michigan on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Ninety-Six Thousand Eight Hundred SixtyOne Dollars and Seventy-Seven Cents ($296,861.77) including interest 10.189% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on December 20, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That part of the South one-half of the Northwest one-quarter, Section 23, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, Rutland Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Beginning at the center of said section; thence North 89 degrees 49 minutes 30 seconds West 400.0 feet along the South line of said Northwest one-quarter; thence North 00 degrees 00 minutes 01 seconds East 1310.04 feet; thence South 89 degrees 37 minutes 30 seconds East 400.0 feet along the North line of said South onehalf, Northwest one-quarter ; thence South 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West 1308.64 feet along the East line of said Northwest one-quarter to the Place of beginning. Subject to highway right of way for Yeckly Road. Commonly known as 2520 Yeckley Road, Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 11/22/2012 HouseHold Finance Corporation III Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File 06795984 No: 12-71233 (11-22)(12-13) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT 248-5021502. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Adam Howe and Holly Howe, husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns., Mortgagee, dated December 18, 2008 and recorded January 8, 2009 in Instrument Number 20090108-0000184, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Wells Fargo Bank, NA by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Nine Thousand Three Hundred Fifty-Five and 11/100 Dollars ($129,355.11) including interest at 6.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 12/13/2012. Said premises are located in the Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Legal description: Township of Rutland, County of Barry, Michigan Beginning at a point on the East Section 11, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, distant South 00 degrees 18 minutes 52 seconds West 1906.22 feet from the Northeast corner of said Section 11; thence South 00 degrees 18 minutes 52 seconds West 478.22 feet along said East line to the centerline of West State Road; thence North 74 degrees 54 minutes 04 seconds West 104.71 feet along said centerline; thence continuing Northwesterly 330.11 feet along said centerline and the arc of a curve to the right, the radius of which is 764.48 feet and the chord of which bears North 62 feet 31 minutes 51 seconds West 327.55 feet; thence continuing along said centerline North 50 degrees 09 minutes 37 seconds West 184.50 feet to the East line of Hillcrest Road as shown on the Plat of Buenavista Heights as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats, Page 108; thence North 39 degrees 44 minutes 16 seconds East 104.16 feet (recorded as 71.13 feet) along said East line of Hillcrest Road; thence South 68 degrees 30 minutes 40 seconds East 75.00 feet; thence North 22 degrees 14 minutes 09 seconds East 3.93 feet; thence South 64 degrees 35 minutes 56 seconds East 44.67 feet; 52 degrees 24 minutes 41 seconds East 46.64 feet; thence North 35 degrees 20 minutes 00 seconds East 24.09 feet; thence South 58 degrees 26 minutes 57 seconds East 7.71 feet; thence North 32 degrees 40 minutes 03 seconds East 120.08 feet; thence North 90 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds East 235.77 feet to the point of beginning. Subject to an easement for public highway purposes over the Southwesterly 33 feet thereof for West State Road. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: November 15, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 326.9994 (11-15)(12-06) 77572492 This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by DAVID A. GAIKEMA and MARY ELLEN GAIKEMA, husband and wife (collectively, "Mortgagor"), to SAND RIDGE BANK, an Indiana corporation, of PO Box 598, Schereville, Indiana 46375, dated April 23, 2004, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on April 28, 2004, as instrument number 1126578 (the “Mortgage”). First Financial Bank, N.A., a national association, of 300 High Street, PO Box 476, Hamilton, Ohio 45011-0476, was the successor by consolidation to Sand Ridge Bank, and subsequently assigned the Mortgage to CHEMICAL BANK, a Michigan banking corporation, having an office at 333 E. Main Street, Midland, Michigan 48640-6511 (the "Mortgagee"), pursuant to the terms of a Branch Purchase and Assumption Agreement dated May 11, 2006, and a Bill of Sale dated August 18, 2006, evidence of which will be placed of record prior to the date of sale (the "Mortgage"). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgagee is the owner of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Two Hundred Sixty-Three Thousand Three Hundred Forty and 96/100 Dollars ($263,340.96). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 10th day of January, 2013, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the Township of Yankee Springs, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: Lot 22 of Ritchie Woodlands, according to the recorded plat thereof; also commencing on the East line of Beatrice Avenue of the Plat of Ritchie Woodlands, 33 feet Easterly from the North lot line of Lot 22; thence Easterly parallel with said North lot line 100 feet; thence Southerly parallel with East line of Beatrice Avenue 50 feet; thence Westerly parallel with the South line of Lot No. 22, 100 feet to Beatrice Avenue; thence Northerly 50 feet to beginning, being a part of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 28, Town 3 North, Range 10 West. Together with all the improvements erected on the real estate, and all easements, appurtenances, and fixtures a part of the property, and all replacements and additions. Commonly known as: 2926 Beatrice Avenue, Middleville, Michigan 49333 P.P. #08-016-190-014-00 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys the premises at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee for damaging the premises during the redemption period. Dated: November 29, 2012 CHEMICAL BANK Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2487 (616) 752-2000 77572689 8730529-1 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Diana Marie Peters, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 10, 2003, and recorded on January 22, 2003 in instrument 1096042, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Flagstar Bank, FSB as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Fifty-Six Thousand Two Hundred Thirty-One and 43/100 Dollars ($56,231.43). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on December 20, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 69, Lynden Johncock Plat #1, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 93. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 22, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #402486F03 77572606 (11-22)(12-13) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by CARL D. MILLER and THERESA M. MILLER, husband and wife (collectively, "Mortgagor"), to FIRST FINANCIAL BANK, NA, a national association, of 300 High Street, PO Box 476, Hamilton, Ohio 45011-0467, dated February 27, 2006, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on March 7, 2006, as Instrument No. 1161010 (the "Mortgage"). First Financial Bank, NA, has assigned the Mortgage to CHEMICAL BANK, a Michigan banking corporation, of 333 East Main Street, Midland, Michigan 48640-6511 (the "Mortgagee"). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgagee is the owner of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Eighty-Four Thousand Nine Hundred Sixty-Eight and 78/100 Dollars ($84,968.78). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 10th day of January, 2013, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the Township of Carlton, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: A parcel of land in the Southeast one-quarter of Section 32, Town 4 North, Range 8 West, Carlton Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Commencing at the Southeast corner of said Section 32; thence North 89 degrees 53 minutes West 1320.4 feet; thence North 0 degrees 04 minutes West 1886.75 feet; thence West 550.37 feet to the Place of Beginning; thence South 175 feet; thence West 433 feet; thence North 28 degrees 40 minutes East 85.5 feet to the South line of Outlot A, Supervisor’s Plat of Bauer’s Resort; thence East 359 feet; thence North 100 feet; thence East 33 feet to the Place of Beginning. Except the East 33 feet for right of way, described as follows: Commence at the Southeast corner of said Section 32; thence North 89 degrees 53 minutes West 1320.4 feet; thence North 0 degrees 04 minutes West 1886.75 feet; thence West 550.37 feet to the Place of Beginning; thence South 175 feet; thence West 33 feet; thence North 175 feet; thence East 33 feet to the Place of Beginning. Together with all the improvements erected on the real estate, and all easements, appurtenances, and fixtures a part of the property, and all replacements and additions. Commonly known as: 304 Leach Lake Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058 P.P. #08-04-032-497-00 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys the premises at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee for damaging the premises during the redemption period. Dated: November 29, 2012 CHEMICAL BANK Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2487 (616) 752-2000 77572621 8723050-1 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF A MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on April 24, 2008, by Michael P. Scott and Laura A. Scott, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, given by them to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on May 12, 2008, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 20080512-0005083, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank by an Assignment of Mortgage dated August 23, 2012, recorded on August 27, 2012, in Instrument Number 2012-003840, Barry County Records, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of One Hundred Eighty-Eight Thousand Four Hundred Forty-Five and 38/100 Dollars ($188,445.38); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, January 3, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF CASTLETON, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: The North 436 feet of the West 500 feet of the Northwest quarter of the Northwest quarter of Section 12, Town 3 North, Range 7 West, excepting therefrom that part deeded to the Michigan Department of State Highways, as recorded in Liber 250 of Deeds, Page 531, and as recorded in Liber 250 of Deeds, Page 575, Castleton Township. Commonly known as: 954 N. M-66 Hwy, Nashville, Michigan 49073 Parcel Number: 08-05012-000-010-00 The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: November 23, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, 77572699 MI 48933 (517) 371-8253 (11-29)(12-20) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by James W. Warner Jr, a/k/a Jim Warner a single man, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated March 12, 2008, and recorded on March 20, 2008 in instrument 20080320-003150, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Nine Thousand Two Hundred SixtyTwo and 58/100 Dollars ($99,262.58). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on December 13, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Beginning At A Point On The EastWest Line Of Section 18, Town 2 North, Range 10 West, Orangeville Township, Barry County, Michigan; Distant North 89 Degrees 59 Minutes East 907.74 Feet From The West 1/4 Post Of Said Section 18; Thence Continuing North 89 Degrees 59 Minutes East Along Said 1/4 Line 239.22 Feet; Thence South 00 Degree 47 Minutes 10 Seconds East 160.00 Feet To The East Line Of The West Fractional 1/2 Of The Southwest 14 Of Said Section 18: Thence South 89 Degrees 59 Minutes West 140.00 Feet; Thence South 00 Degrees 47 Minutes 10 Seconds East 30.00 Feet; Thence South 89 Degrees 59 Minutes West 125.00 Feet: Thence North 00 Degrees 47 Minutes 10 Seconds West 89.68 Feet; Thence North 89 Degrees 59 Minutes East 25.78 Feet; Thence North 00 Degrees 47 Minutes 10 Seconds West 100.32 Feet To The Place Of Beginning. Subject To Easement For Public Highway Purposes Over The Northerly 33 Feet Thereof For Saddler Road And The Easterly 33 Feet Thereof For Dennison Road. Beginning At A Point On East-West 1/4 Line, Section 18, Town 2 North, Range 10 West Distant North 89 Degrees 59 Minutes 00 Seconds East 660.00' From The West 1/4 Post Said Section 18, Thence Continuing North 89 Degrees 59 Minutes 00 Seconds East Along Said 1/4 Line 486.96, Thence South 00 Degrees 47 Minutes 10 Seconds East 238.46', Thence North 89 Degrees 59 Minutes 47 Seconds West 165.00, Thence North 00 Degrees 47 Minutes 10 Seconds West 16.03, Thence North 89 Degrees 59 Minutes 47 Seconds West 323.41, Thence North 00 Degrees 24 Minutes 48 Seconds West 222.24' To Point Of Beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 15, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #414615F01 77572322 (11-15)(12-06) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Cora Lee Greenburg, an unmarried woman, original mortgagor(s), to World Savings Bank, FSB, Mortgagee, dated July 30, 2002, and recorded on August 13, 2007 in instrument 1085507, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Forty-Five Thousand Five Hundred Two and 23/100 Dollars ($245,502.23). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on January 10, 2013. Said premises are situated in Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 23, Supervisor's Plat of Long Point, as recorded in Liber 2 of Page 50, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 29, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #367213F04 77572639 (11-29)(12-20) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THIS FIRM IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. MORTGAGE SALE: Default having been made in the conditions of certain Mortgage made by JUDITH L. MILAN, a single woman, of 1270 Norway Avenue, Hastings, MI 49058, to THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, acting through Rural Development, United States Department of Agriculture, with its Office being located at 4300 Goodfellow Blvd., Building 105, FC215, St. Louis, MO, 63120, the Mortgagee, the Mortgage being dated May 8, 1996, and recorded May 10, 1996, in Liber 659, Page 988 in Barry County Records, and the borrower having assumed a mortgage between ARCHIE L. LEATHERMAN and THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, acting through Rural Development, United States Department of Agriculture, the Mortgage being dated May 3, 1993 in Liber 570, Page 865, Barry County Records, such Mortgage being given to secure Promissory Note payable to the Government, and by reason of such default the Mortgagee elects to declare the entire unpaid amount of such Mortgage due and payable forthwith, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due as of December 6, 2012, for principal, interest and other charges, the sum of SIXTY NINE THOUSAND, NINE HUNDRED EIGHTY-SIX AND 92/100 ($69,986.92) DOLLARS, and no proceedings having been instituted at law or equity to recover the debt now remaining secured by said Mortgage, or any part thereof, whereby the power of sale contained in said Mortgage has become operative; Now, Therefore, Notice is Hereby Given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in said Mortgage and in pursuance of the statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, the said Mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the premises therein described, or so much thereof as may be necessary, at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the east steps of the County Courthouse at 220 W. STATE STREET, in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, Michigan, that being the place of holding the Circuit Court in and for said County, on THURSDAY, JANUARY 17, 2013 at 1:00 p.m., local time, and said premises will be sold to pay the amount due as aforesaid on the Mortgage together with 6.75% interest, legal costs, attorneys' fees and also any taxes and insurance that said Mortgagee does pay on or prior to the date of said sale; which said premises described in said Mortgage are situated in the State of Michigan, Barry County and are described as: A parcel of land in the Southwest onequarter of Section 2, T3N, R9W, Described as: Beginning at the Southeast corner of Lot 70 of the Plat of Smith’s Lakeview Estate No. 1 as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 2 in County Records, and running thence North 00 degrees 08 minutes East 109.48’ to the Southernmost corner of Lot 65 of said Plat; thence North 49 degrees 51 minutes East 167.19’ to the Easternmost corner of said Lot 65; thence South 40 degrees 09 minutes East 100’; thence South 49 degrees 51 minutes West 219.31’; thence North 88 degrees 42 minutes 30 seconds West 24.90’ to the POB. Being a part of outlot L. Rights of the public and of any governmental unit in any part thereof taken used or deeded for street, road or highway purposes. Right of way in favor of Consumers Power Company, recorded in Liber 356, Page 354, and in Liber 356, on page 520. Right of way to Michigan Bell Telephone Company recorded in Liber 354, Page 329. Also described as: Lot 81, Amended Plat of Part of the Northwesterly Portion of Outlot E, Smith’s Lakeview Estates No. 1, according to the plat thereof recorded in Liber 6 of Plats, Page 46, Barry County Records. During the six (6) months immediately following the sale, the property may be redeemed unless the property is abandoned, in which case the redemption shall be thirty (30) days from the date of sale. According to MCL §600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. For further information with regard to this foreclosure, contact USDA - Rural Development, Centralized Servicing Center, Foreclosure Centralization Initiative, 4300 Goodfellow Blvd., Building 105, FC-215, St. Louis, MO, 63120, telephone (800) 349-5097 ext. 4500. Dated: December 6, 2012 UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, acting through the Farmers Home Administration (now Rural Development), United States Department of Agriculture, Mortgagee Michael I. Conlon (P43954) Running, Wise, Ford, P.L.C. 326 E. State Street, P.O. Box 686 Traverse City, MI 49685-0686 (1206)(12-27) 77572892 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, December 6, 2012 — Page 13 HHS production of ‘A Christmas Carol’ opens tonight Starting this evening, Thursday, Dec. 6, Hastings High School will present “A Christmas Carol” based on the novel by Charles Dickens at 7 p.m. The cast and crew of approximately 40 students will also present the play Friday, Dec. 7, and Saturday, Dec. 8, at Central Auditorium in Hastings. “A Christmas Carol” is the classic tale of the miser Ebenezer Scrooge and how he learns the true meaning of season and the importance of opening his heart when he is visited by three ghosts on Christmas Eve. Members of the cast and crew are include narrators Anna Ellege, Christa Wright and Sara Porter; Ryan Carlson, Scrooge; Marshall Cherry, Fred; Jay Molette, Bob Cratchit; Emma Shute, first solicitor and Belle; Casey Demink, second solicitor and young Jacob Marley; Damon Cove, Marley’s Ghost and Larchmont; Sam Kobe, Ghost of Christmas Past; Matthew Maurer, Tiny Tim and Young Ebenezer; Emily Shafer; Shelby VanderMel, Fanny; Patrick Singleterry, Mr. Fezziwig and Topper; Whitney Martin, Mrs. Fezziwig; Ariel Leonhardt, Nell; Brian Cote, young Scrooge; Travis Raab, Graves and Nell’s husband; Abby Campbell, Ghost of Christmas Present; Sidney Dudley, Mrs. Cratchit; Elizabeth Cason, Martha; Maggie Marsh, Cratchit daughter; Sarah Main, Belinda Cratchit; Claire Green, Cindy Cratchit; Olivia Scrooge’s nephew, Fred, played by Marshall Cherry (right), gives directions to his maid, Gena, played by Naomi Van Dien. Rose, Elizabeth; Jaelynn Koning, Mary; Ashley Weinbrecht, Ghost of Christmas Future; Natalie Anderson, wealthy friend; Anna Pattok, Miss Grubb; Yara Van Spanje, Mrs. Dill; Naomi Van Dien, Gena; Amanda Nell, played by Ariel Leonhardt, and young Ebenezer Scrooge, Brian Cote, plan a future together. Sarhatt, Tess and townsperson; Avery Lomas, Tickets will be available at the door: $9 for Want and townsperson. adults, and $6 for students and seniors. 77572806 77572810 77572808 77572802 77572816 Wealthy Friend, played by Natalie Anderson, and Larchmont, played by Damon Cove discuss Scrooge’s upcoming funeral. 77572812 77572814 77572804 See us for color copies, one-hour digital and 35 mm photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS Bob Cratchit, played by Jay Molette, carries Tiny Tim, played by Matthew Maurer, as they arrive home from church. 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits �Page 14 — Thursday, December 6, 2012 — The Hastings Banner SPRAY PLAZA, continued from page 1 POLICE BEAT BEA Man does not play requests, is arrested Hastings Police were called to a residence in the 400 block of South Hanover Street Dec. 2 regarding a loud music complaint. Reportedly, officers had responded to the same address five times recently. Police spoke with the 33-year-old resident, who reportedly had been drinking and began to argue about the music. The man refused to keep the music down and was placed under arrest for being a disorderly person. He registered .16 percent blood alcohol level on a portable breath test. Woman caught napping while man leaves Reportedly, there were no apparent signs of forced entry into the garage or house. The generator was valued at $1,000. Reindeer take flight from city lawn Two life-sized reindeer lawn ornaments were reported stolen from a yard in the 700 block of East Thorn Street, Hastings, Dec. 1. The homeowner said he heard his dog barking the night before, looked out the window and noticed a vehicle and several people in front of his house. He told officers he didn’t think much of this because neighbors down the street were having a party. When he awoke the next morning, he said the reindeer were missing. The case remains open. Work van stolen from residence Hastings Police were dispatched to the 200 block of North Park Street Nov. 28 on a domestic violence complaint. Officers spoke with a woman who said she was taking a nap and her 27-year-old Hastings boyfriend had been watching her children. When she awoke, she said the man was gone and her children were unattended. When he returned, the two began to argue and she said the man grabbed her by the throat and threw her to the ground. Officers spoke with the boyfriend and placed him under arrest. Theft generates latent interest A Rutland Township resident reported his work van stolen Nov. 25. He told deputies he drove the van to his West M-179 residence the night of Nov. 23 and parked it near the driveway with the keys still in the van. He told deputies he has done this for years. When he left in a different vehicle that evening, the van was still there. Reportedly, when he woke the following morning, his wife asked where the van was. The white 2003 Ford E250 had all of his work tools and other items in it. The case remains open. Trail camera catches thief’s eye A resident the 700 block of East Grant Street, Hastings reported Nov. 28 that his portable Coleman PowerMate generator was missing from his garage. Approximately three weeks ago, he told officers, he had left his house to run some errands and returned to find the garage door open. He didn’t notice anything missing until he went looking for his generator. A Middleville man contacted deputies Dec. 3 to report the theft of a trail camera. His property borders state land, and he believes someone took his $150 Eyecon Blackwidow trail camera while on state land. He said he simply wanted to report the missing camera, in case similar calls came in. The case is closed pending more information. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 For Sale Help Wanted Business Services AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 DRIVER TRAINEES NEEDED NOW! Learn to drive for Werner Enterprises. Earn $800+ per week. No experience needed! CDL trained and job-ready in 15 days! 1-800-882-7364. Werner Enterprises. LOOKING FOR: a different kind of Christmas gift. Give them the gift of a clean car. Buy a gift certificate from Roy’s Detail. Call (269)9086776 for service options & prices. ELIMINATE YOUR HEATING bills. OUTDOOR WOOD FURNACE from Central Boiler. D-2 Outdoor Wood Boilers. (616)437-4334. DRIVERS: NEED HOME Time, Miles? Dedicated Home Weekly. NEW Signon Bonus $1,000. CDL-A, 1 yr. OTR. MTS: 800-748-0192 x208/x214. WOOD HEAT- CLEAN, safe & thermostatically controlled. Central Boiler Classic Outdoor Wood Furnace. 25 year warranty. Great summer sale. Call SOS your “Stocking Dealer” National Ads Dutton, MI (616)554-8669 or THIS PUBLICATION (616)915-5061. DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is Estate Sale deceptive, fraudulent or ESTATE/MOVING SALES: might otherwise violate law by Bethel Timmer - The Cot- or accepted standards of tage House Antiques. taste. However, this publica(269)795-8717 or (616)901- tion does not warrant or 9898. guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the quality of goods or services advertised. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made in any advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you ask for money in advance of delivery of goods or services advertised. Recreation WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are interested in leasing acreage for this years deer season. Call (269)795-3049 For Rent WALL LAKE, DELTON: 2 bedroom apartment. References & deposit. No pets, 269-623-8218. PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 77564784 LIFEGUARDS The Community Education and Recreation Center is looking for several part-time adult lifeguards that would be available to work weekdays. Applicants must be lifeguard and CPR/AED certified. Candidates should contact Jeff Wilbur at the CERC 269 948-4414 voted unanimously to approve a site plan and grant a special-use permit that will allow construction of the spray plaza, band shell and public restroom facility on the vacant lot on the northwest corner of West State and North Church streets next to Hastings 4 Cinema. The project is being funded by a $250,000 donation by Flexfab International; $87,950 donated the Hastings Rotary Club, which includes a $50,000 anonymous matching donation, $25,000 club donation, $7,500 anonymous member donation, and $5,450 combined member donation; and funds from the Hastings Downtown Development Authority. Hastings Community Development Director John Hart said Monday the park will be known as the Hastings Splash Plaza, but plaques will be incorporated into the site recognizing those who contributed to the park. Hart said the city plans to seek bids on the project in February and start construction in the spring, as soon as weather allows, and be completed by the end of June. The site plan for the spray plaza includes a brick retaining wall with columns to match the existing downtown streetscape, a 30-foot diameter ground-level jumping jet water feature that can be turned on by a button, raised decorative planters and built-in seating. More raised planters will separate the terraced seatwalls facing the mini-band shell on the north end of the plaza. The band shell will be big enough to accommodate trios, quartets and other smaller musical combos, similar to those that have performed across the street on the Barry County Courthouse lawn during the Fridays at the Fountain concert series, said Challenges move Chad Curtis case to Michigan Court of Appeals by David DeDecker Staff Writer After months of pre-trial motions and hearings in the criminal sexual conduct case against Chad Curtis, challenges to rulings made by Judge Amy McDowell will go to the Michigan Court of Appeals, moving the start of the actual trial in Barry County Circuit Court from Jan. 14 to sometime in early May 2013. Curtis, a former Major League Baseball player and Lakewood High School volunteer, is charged with six acts of criminal sexual conduct involving teenage girls attending Lakewood schools. Curtis’ attorney, David Dodge, has opted to challenge motions that he lost before McDowell in Barry County Circuit Court. Dodge argued Dec. 5 that Barry County Assistant Prosecutor Chris Ellsworth was a necessary witness in his client’s defense and motioned to have Ellsworth disqualified from the case in order to take the witness stand. In question, according to Dodge, was a brief meeting between Ellsworth and a thenwitness who has now been identified as a victim. The witness/victim allegedly told Ellsworth about an event between her and Curtis. No third party was present at the meeting, and Ellsworth did not record the conversation. Dodge said there was nothing unethical about what Ellsworth did or did not do, but Ellsworth needed to testify to what was said in the conversation. Ellsworth told the court that, as soon as the victim came forward with new information, he called a Barry County Sheriff’s detective who then conducted a forensic interview. McDowell denied Dodge’s motion to disqualify Ellsworth from prosecuting the case, saying the necessary information could be brought to light during the victim’s testimony, depending on Dodge’s skill with questioning. Dodge also wanted the court to clarify a motion ruling made three weeks ago. Dodge argued then that an expert psychology witness should be able to testify to case-specific behavioral science and the alleged victims in the case. McDowell said she had ruled previously that the expert witness can testify to general principles, but not to specific victim testimony-related analysis because that would be a “veiled attack on the victim’s credibility.” Dodge said he expects the Court of Appeals to rule on his challenges to McDowell’s rulings by the end of March. That will move Curtis’ trial to some time in early May. Call 269-945-9554 to place your ad in the Hastings Banner classifieds! This architectural drawing shows how spray plaza will look, facing west from Church Street. Hart. The band shell facility also will include a mechanical and storage room and two public restrooms. Hastings Planning Commission Chair David Hatfield commended Hart and other city staff members who worked on the project. “This is going to be a really nice addition to the downtown,” he said. In other business, the commission also unanimously approved a motion to recommend an amendment to the city zoning ordinances that would give the planning commission greater flexibility in establishing maxi- mum and minimum setbacks for new construction in most of the downtown business district and surrounding business districts, including the neighborhood-edge or mixeduse zone, but excludes the M-37/M-43 corridor west of downtown. During the public hearing on the amendment and discussion preceding the vote, Hatfield stressed that the amendment would not be more restrictive. Instead, it would allow more the commission more flexibility to approve site plans without requiring a variance from the zoning board of appeals. COURT NEWS Karen Cay Hamilton, 42, of Hastings was sentenced in Barry County Circuit Court Nov. 29 for assaulting, resisting or obstructing a police officer. Judge Amy McDowell sentenced Hamilton to 45 days in jail, with credit for nine days served. Hamilton must pay $698 in court assessments and serve 18 months on probation. The balance of her jail time will be suspended upon successful completion of probation. Hamilton must complete anger management counseling and pay $50 per month toward court assessments. The Barry County Prosecutor’s office dropped the charge of assaulting, resisting or obstructing a police officer causing injury. Catrina Ann Bagnoud, 26, of Hastings was sentenced Nov. 28 in Barry County Circuit Court for larceny of a person. Judge Amy McDowell ordered Bagnoud to serve nine months in jail with credit for 160 days served. Bagnoud must pay $698 in court assessments and serve 24 months on probation. The balance of her jail time will be suspended upon successful completion of probation. Bagnoud must have a mental health assessment, attend counseling take part in cognitive behavior therapy. She must pay $40 per month toward court assessments. A charge of unarmed robbery was dropped by the Barry County Prosecutor’s office. Special Holiday Hours Open Saturday, Dec. 15 & 22 8:30am to 1:00pm 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings (269) 945-9105 • (269) 945-2680 FAX Open Monday thru Friday 8:30 to 6:00 www. sunshinepackandship.com �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, December 6, 2012 — Page 15 Good senior group gets help from underclassmen by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Andrew Mains is off and running with his varsity coaching career after one year on the junior varsity level at Hastings High School. He hopes his girls are ready to run too. He wants his girls to play full-court defense and push the ball once they’ve got possession for it. “We’re trying to get them used to playing our up-tempo, fast speed,” Mains said. “Last year they were kind of a half-court defense. They would run down and run flex offense. We are trying to get them to push it a lot more. We want to get them to up the speed to use our quickness and speed on a lot of teams this year.” There are some Xs and Os to learn to get used to playing that style, but also a lot of conditioning to do. Mains coached the Saxon junior varsity last year, after some time as an AAU coach. He graduated from Gull Lake High School in 2006 and went on to play at Davenport University after that. He’s a young coach, and he’s got a couple of young players that are already doing big things for the Saxons. He said freshman center Maddie Dailey is averaging about 15 points per game through the first three contests of the year. Sophomore point guard Grace Meade is in her second season on the varsity. There are a lot of experienced ball players to lead the way for the youngsters too. “The nice thing about this group is we have Nikki Redman back, Grace Meade, Erin Gray, Rachel Quillen, Taylor Carter, Kaitlin Allan and Shelby Price,” Mains said. Other than Meade that group is all seniors. Mains said he also expects solid contributions from junior Grace Bosma as well. The Saxons are 1-2 on the season. They fell at DeWitt Tuesday after earning their first victory of the season at Comstock Park Friday night. “The nice thing is, in the first two games we got down by a quick ten points and these girls have not quit,” Mains said. “They continue to fight back. I can’t talk about their resiliency enough.” The Saxons are home for their next four ballgames, against Reeths-Puffer Friday night, then Lakewood Dec. 11, Hopkins Dec. 13 and Delton Kellogg Dec. 18. At Right: The 2012-13 Hastings varsity girls’ basketball team. Team members are (front from left) Kaitlin Allan, Alizee Sponga, Shelby Price, Taylor Carter, Erin Gray, Nikki Redman, Rachel Quillen, (back) head coach Andrew Mains, Becky Barnard, Haley Lyke, Maddie Dailey, Grace Bosma, Grace Meade, Katy DelCotto and coach Bill Wallace. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Saxon’s line-up very strong through the middle by Brett Bremer Sports Editor It should make for some pretty interesting practices. The Hastings varsity wrestling team has a ton of good to great middleweights this winter. There’s a list of returnees that includes Joe Siska at 140 pounds, Stephen Kendall at 145, Jason Slaughter at 152, Kenny Cross at 160, Chase Huisman at 171 pounds and Cody Newton at 189. “Our biggest hurdle will be that all those middle guys have got to spread out in weights,” said Hastings head coach Mike Goggins. “Some of them are moving up a little bit. Some of them are going to have to cut a little and get down. They would all really like to be 152 or 160 pounders, and they’ve got to go from 145 to 171, so that’s really the biggest problem. They’re all the same size, Chase, Kenny, Jason Slaughter, Stephen Kendall, Cody Newton could all be 52s or 60s.” He’s confident they’ll all get to where they need to be, which will make for a lot of interesting matches for the Saxons. “The good thing about that is they’re all experienced wrestlers that know what the sacrifice is and know that it’s not very much fun sometimes, but know that’s what it is,” Goggins said. “If they were younger it could be a problem, because they might not have the heart to get down there.” EYE & E.N.T. SPECIALISTS CENTER 1761 W. M-43 Hwy, Hastings (269) 945-3888 M-66 TIRE 7775 Saddlebag Lake Rd. (M-66) Lake Odessa Cross is a two-time state qualifier as an individual. Huisman is a regional qualifier, as well as a few of the Saxons’ lighter guys - Joe Siska at 140 pounds, Zach Wilcox at 125 and Aaron Williams at 119 pounds. Ethan Haywood returns to wrestle at 130 or 135 pounds, and on the other end Nate Pewoski returns, moving up to 285 this winter. Goggins said he expects to see a couple of freshmen at 103 pounds and 112 pounds, and there are a handful of guys competing for the 215-pound spot in the line-up “It’s a pretty solid line-up right through the middle, a little bit of questions on the ends. We’ll see,” said Goggins. The OK Gold Conference has changed a bit, with Forest Hills Eastern and Caledonia gone. There are now just four full wrestling teams in the league plus whatever group of wrestlers that Ottawa Hills is able to put together. The Saxons expect to be battling Thornapple Kellogg once again for an OK Gold Conference championship. The Saxons were second in the league last winter. Goggins said he also expects Grand Rapids Catholic Central to be good come tournament time. The Saxons open their season Saturday at the Greenville Duals. The league season starts Dec. 12 when the Saxons visit Wayland. DEWEY’S AUTO BODY 1111 W. Green, Hastings www.deweysautobody.com MacLEOD CHIROPRACTIC 327 W. Apple St. Hastings The 2012-13 Hastings wrestling team. Team members are (front from left) manager Sammy Ackels, Donavin Taggart, David Hause, Jeremiah Shaffer, Jason Slaughter, Ethan Haywood, Stephen Kendall, Zach Wilcox, Aaron Williams, manager Jessi Slaughter, (second row) manager Dani King, John DeVoss, Austin Morris, Alex Traister, Jesus Delangel, Colten Dillon, Lindsey Kuhlman, William McKeever, Quentin Wigg, Luke Leinaar, Justice Lamance, manager Abby McKeever, (third row) coach Dennis Redman, Nic Schaefer, Philipp Schwaiger, George Murphy, Travis Hoffman, Duane Kissinger, Tony Gibson, Tyler Youngs, Tom Patterson, Mitchell Sarhatt, coach Mike Goggins, coach Darrell Slaughter, (back) Jeremy Miller, Patrick Murphy, Nate Pewoski, Kenny Cross, Chase Huisman, Joe Siska, Cody Newton and Bret Thomas. (Photo by Brett Bremer) BOSLEY PHARMACY “A Full Service Independent Pharmacy serving Hastings & Barry County” 118 S. Jefferson, Hastings 945-3495 PRECISION AUTO BODY REPAIR 819 E. Railroad St. Hastings COLEMAN AGENCY 312 E. Court, Hastings 945-3412 “Since 1908” HASTINGS 616-374-1200 948-3170 948-9472 Lake Odessa • Dimondale • Mulliken Pewamo • Westphalia GOLE DENTAL GROUP KING’S ELECTRONICS & APPLIANCES STATE FARM INSURANCE PROGRESSIVE GRAPHICS Dr. Daniel Gole ~ Dr. Jason D. Gole Dr. Philip D. Gole 121 W. Woodlawn, Hastings 130 W. State, Hastings 948-2244 945-4284 TRADEMARK REALTY, INC. WELTON’S HEATING & COOLING 305 S. Broadway, Hastings 945-0514 www.TradeMarkRealty.com 401 N. Broadway, Hastings 945-5352 Paul Peterson 1215 N. Broadway, Hastings 115 S.Jefferson St, Hastings PERFORMANCE PLUS QUICK LUBE 430 W. State St, Hastings 948-8558 BRIAN’S TIRE & SERVICE 235 S. Jefferson, Hastings 945-9549 GEE & LONGSTREET LLP Attorneys at Law 607 N. Broadway, Hastings 948-8001 945-9249 AT HOME REAL ESTATE GIRRBACH FUNERAL HOME JOE & BARB’S SEPTIC SERVICE 328 S. Broadway, Hastings 3305 W. Quimby Rd, Hastings 945-3252 945-4240 50 N. M-37 Hwy, Hastings 945-3550 “Work with the people who make you Feel At Home” 945-3495 These sponsors help support coverage of your local high school sports teams. Please show your thanks by supporting these sponsors! �Page 16 — Thursday, December 6, 2012 — The Hastings Banner HHS lost just two from its district championship team by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Hastings saw two of its top three scorers graduate last spring, but almost everyone else is back from the team which won a Class B District championship a season ago. Senior Maxwell Clark was the Saxons’ scoring leader at about 10.6 points per game last winter as a junior. Also an outstanding defender, he and fellow senior Ian Beck will give opposing back-courts fits. Luke Heide, a strong outside shooter returns for his senior season in the backcourt as well. While roles might be a bit bigger for guys like Beck and Heide, there is also a bigger role for coach Steven Storrs. Already very involved in the offense, he’s taking more of the defensive reigns from coach Don Schils this season. Schils will still be on the bench for the Saxons as well, for a 20th season. There’s experience in the back-court, on the bench, and a bit in the front-court. Senior Eric Hart is back for his senior season, after missing parts of last season with an injury he’s getting a little bit of a late start this winter as well. He’ll be joined in the paint by fellow seniors Alex Cherry and Stefan Horvat, who each saw just a little varsity action a year ago. This will be the third varsity season for Hart, as well as Clark. Cherry and Horvat are each listed at 6-4, a couple inches taller than Hart, so the Saxons don’t have a lot of size inside. Storrs thinks his team can make up for some of that lack of size with its senior leadership and its overall experience as a group. The Saxons are 1-0 after a win over DeWitt Tuesday and will return to action at Alma Friday. Hastings visits Lakewood Tuesday evening. The OK Gold Conference season doesn’t start until the new year. The Saxons will be home for their first two league contests, against Wayland Jan. 15 and Ottawa Hills Jan. 18. The 2012-13 Hastings varsity boys’ basketball team. Team members are (front from left) Stefan Horvat, Luke Heide, Maxwell Clark, Michael Eastman, Eric Hart, Ian Beck, Alex Cherry, (back) manager Maria Palacio, coach Steven Storrs, Carson Williams, Danny Sprague, Jon Wilcox, Zach McMahon, Matt Johnson, Bo Morgan, coach Don Schils and manager Lindy Kloosterman. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Hastings High School finally adds bowling teams by Brett Bremer Sports Editor League bowling was interrupted at Hastings Bowl Wednesday night when it was announced that Kyle Hoyt would be coming around selling 50/50 raffle tickets. The announcement was met with applause. Hoyt is trying to raise funds for the new Hastings High School bowling club, which will have its first competition Dec. 29 at Hastings Bowl when the Saxons take on Sparta. Having a high school bowling team in Hastings is something that has been a long time coming in may peoples’ eyes. Hoyt’s daughter, Ashland, is in the fourth grade and is one of the state’s top bowler’s for her age. He said that folks from Pennfield and Gull Lake have been trying to talk him into transferring his daughter to their schools for high school so she can be a part of a high school bowling team. His answer to them has been, “I like Hastings.” He put together some statistics, some information and some numbers and presented it to Hastings High School athletic director Mike Goggins in early November. What was supposed to be a 15 minute meeting turned into a 45 minute meeting. “The biggest things that helped this time that hadn’t happened in the past were one, he came to me with a fully organized plan and two, maybe this should be number one, was the student interest,” said Goggins. A sign-up sheet in the high school gathered about 40 signatures of students interested in joining the club. Goggins said there hadn’t been that kind of response from students in the past. The other big key is that Hoyt is willing to work to make sure that the club can be a com- pletely self-funded organization. The plan was shared with the school board Nov. 13, and the Saxons are off and rolling. Hoyt said that community support has been tremendous so far. Flexfab, the Coleman Insurance Agency, Hastings Bowl and Feed Sack Fashions have helped to sponsor the boys’ and girls’ teams, and Hoyt is still looking for more help. Hastings had been the only team in the OK Gold Conference without a bowling team prior to the formation of this club. The club formed too late to get fully included in the conference slate this year, but the Saxons do plan on participating in the conference tournament Feb. 16 at the Middle Villa Inn in Middleville. Goggins said he wouldn’t be surprised to see the team become a self-funded varsity sport, like the Unity Knights hockey team, in the near future if interest remains high. Swim team looks to improve its depth Thornapple Kellogg/Hastings varsity boys’ swimming and diving head coach Tyler Bultema knows who his team’s leaders are. Now the Trojan team is trying to find out who can be right behind those leaders. Senior Daegan Mix and juniors Levi Ryfiak and Dexx VanHouten return to lead the TK/Hastings team, with the help of sophomores Jared Bailey, Ronnie Collins, Brandon Gray and senior Garret Bowers. Bultema calls that a good core of returning swimmers. “We need to build a more competitive WHITE’S PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO whitesofhastings@aol.com 945-3967 group of secondary swimmers,” he said. Freshmen will try and fill some of those secondary spots. The group of ninth graders includes Nick Meyers, Ben Anderson and Troy Boonstra. Bultema expects to have five divers who will be able to compete this season. The TK/Hastings boys started their season Tuesday, falling 85-82 at South Haven. TK/Hastings won both the freestyle relays in an effort to keep pace with the Rams. The team of Levi Ryfiak, VanHouten, Nate Ryfiak and Mix won the 200-yard race in 1 minute 45.68 and the MILLER REAL ESTATE 149 W. State St, Hastings 945-5182 BROWN’S CARPET ONE & CUSTOM INTERIORS GREEN LIGHT DRIVING SCHOOL LLC 208 N. Main (M-66) Nashville 517-852-0000 100.1 FM Hastings 269-795-4230 EDWARD JONES (269) 945-3431 HASTINGS NAPA 122 N. Jefferson Rd. Hastings 948-9696 RADIOSHACK OF HASTINGS HASTINGS CITY BANK 602 W. State St, Hastings “Safe & Sound Since 1886” 150 W. Court St, Hastings 269-945-4800 945-2401 Mark D. Christensen, AAMS Financial Advisor 421 W. Woodlawn, Hastings ICS TRAVEL LITTLE CAESAR’S 128 E. Court St, Hastings 269-945-3553 www.icstravel.com Home of the Hot & Ready Pizza! 216 N. Broadway, Hastings 948-2824 WOMEN’S HEALTH FIRST, PC HASTINGS ORTHOPEDIC CLINIC BARRY COUNTY LUMBER 225 N. Industrial Park Dr. Hastings Heers, senior base Sadie Walsh, senior back spot Chelsea Eldred, senior base Brianne Whiteman and junior flyer Michelle Howlett this winter. The Saxons will also get a boost with the return of senior flyer Faith Pearlman who took her junior year off from the cheer team. The Saxons are putting time in to try and improve their jumping this season. Hubbell said the team is getting great help in that from volunteer coaches Sara Radant, Alex Wendorf Emily Hoke and parent helper Deanne Stanton. Hastings opens its season with a trip to Byron Center Jan. 5, then will start the OK Gold/Green season Jan. 9 at Holland Christian. Hastings will host the conference Feb. 6. That will be the second of two home meets for the Saxons this season. They will host their annual Saxonfest Jan. 12. 616-891-8104 945-2963 4525 N. M-37 Hwy, Ste B, Middleville by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Saxons have strengthened their gymnastics over the years and it is paying off. Hastings’ varsity competitive cheer team was second in the OK Gold Conference a year ago, and ended up the year finishing a strong sixth at its regional meet. Hastings head coach Amy Hubbell said her team has set goals of finishing better at regionals this year, and finishing higher at its district than the fourth-place finish it had a year ago. The team also wants to do well in the new conference, the OK Gold/Green. The conference will be tough at the top, with Thornapple Kellogg from the Gold and Holland Christian from the Green expected to be both be very good once again. Hubbell said that her strong stunting and tumbling team is led by senior flyer Desi 632 E. Main St. Caledonia 122 W. State St, Hastings FIRST REHAB like sophomore Cheyanne Roush and junior Mitchell Philley. Right now there are just five dates for sure on the schedule. The competition with Sparta to start the season, the OK Gold Tournament at the end of the regular season, a trip to take on Marshall at M-66 Bowl in Battle Creek Jan. 2, a trip back to M-66 Jan. 6 for the Battle of the Baker, and a contest in Hastings against South Christian Jan. 29. Saxons gearing up for the challenge of new conference SEIF CHEVROLET BUICK PONTIAC HODGES JEWELRY 221 N. Industrial Park, Hastings 945-2479 team of Meyers, Collins, Gray and Levi Ryfiak won the 400-yard race in 4:16.77. TK/Hastings also had Mix win the 100yard freestyle in 55.75 seconds and the 100-yard freestyle in 2:25.74. Levi Ryfiak won the 200-yard individual medley in 2:25.74. TK/Hastings will swim again this evening at the Byron Center Tri, then will be off until Tuesday when it plays host to Unity Christian in the first home meet of the year. The paperwork isn’t all back yet, but the Saxons are expecting to be eligible to compete in the Michigan High School Athletic Association postseason tournament. There are currently eight boys and seven girls on the two teams. Hoyt said he’s seen a lot of progress already. On the first day he had kids rolling 30s, 40s and 50s who were up to 80s, 90s and 100s with just the tiniest bit of coaching. He said he has some strong bowlers too, 945-5110 10051 W. Green St. Suite G100, Hastings 1761 W. M-43 Hwy, Suite 2, Hastings 1108 W. State St. Ste 3, Hastings www.hoc-mi.com 840 Cook Rd. Hastings (269) 945-0922 (269) 948-PEDS (7337) (269) 945-8080 (269) 945-9520 Laura M. Doherty, MD & Laura J. Kota, MD These sponsors help support coverage of your local high school sports teams. Please show your thanks by supporting these sponsors! �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, December 6, 2012 — Page 17 Saxon defense shuts down DeWitt in 4th quarter The Saxons’ Stefan Horvat puts an offensive rebound back up for two points in front of DeWitt’s Raymond Stein during the fourth quarter Tuesday night. (Photo by Brett Bremer) FULL SERVICE FROM START TO FINISH The area’s most complete printing facility • Wilkes said Pierce worked hard chasing Smith around, and the other girls worked hard defending their responsibilities as well. It was slow going a bit on the other end to start for Maple Valley. The Lions scored six points in each of the first three quarters as the Irish built a 36-18 lead. Olivia Ricketts led the Lions with 11 points and Timara Burd added seven. Behind Smith for the Irish, Danielle Reits had ten and Chrissie Schnelker six points. Portland St. Patrick topped the Lions 6415 in the season opener in Portland Tuesday (Nov. 27). “They’re a good ball club,” Wilkes said. “They have an excellent 2-2-1 press and an excellent 2-3 zone they play. They applied a lot of ball pressure and took us our of our game real quick and real fast.” Ricketts had five points in the loss for the Lions and Emily Mattocks had three. The Lions return to action Friday night, when they travel to Delton Kellogg for another KVA contest. PRINTER? IN TIN G • Steve Skedgell • Steve Steward • Jennie Yonker • Bruce Fuller • Fred Jacobs • Brian Rayner- Charlotte Litho • Jonathan Jacobs- Lowell Litho SPECIALIZING IN MULTI-COLOR AND 4 COLOR PROCESS WORK WHERE NO JOB IS TOO BIG AND NEVER TOO SMALL! • • • • • • • • • • • Letterheads Business Cards Annual Reports Brochures Flyers Posters Political Signs Rubber Stamps Business Forms Newsletters Computer Forms SERVICING KALAMAZOO, GRAND RAPIDS, BATTLE CREEK, LANSING AND SURROUNDING AREAS DAILY! • • • • • • • • • • • Folders Books Stickers Invitations Labels Tags Envelopes Tickets Balloons Calendars Catalogs PICK-UP AND DELIVERY MAILING SERVICE TI IN PR ONE-HOUR PHOTO PROCESSING • Call one of our sales professionals today! PR by Brett Bremer Sports Editor It’s a work in progress. Maple Valley’s varsity girls’ basketball team started off the 2012-13 season 0-2 this week, falling to Portland St. Patrick Tuesday in the season opener and then to Hackett Catholic Central in the Kalamazoo Valley Association opener Friday night. The Fighting Irish topped the Lions 4129 in Kalamazoo Friday, but the Lion head coach Landon Wilkes said his team showed progress in every single quarter. There were better screens, then girls posting up better, then better bounce passes into the post. In the second half, the defense was better. The Lions went to a box-and-1, with Marissa Pierce focusing on Hackett’s Grace Smith. Smith made just two free throws in the second half, after hitting three threes and scoring ten points in the first half. Smith led the Irish with 12 points on the night. The Lions outscored the Irish 17-15 in the second half, with the help of an 11-5 fourth quarter run. Hastings forward Michael Eastman drives past DeWitt’s Raymond Stein early in the fourth quarter Tuesday night at Hastings High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) R LO Lions get a little better every quarter in first KVA contest Raymond Stein had nine points and Ryan Bennett eight. Hastings will be at Alma Friday. CO PIE utes of the first half and the first two minutes of the second half put the Eagles in control of the ballgame. “We came out in the second quarter and they had the same kind of pressure. Nothing changed and we did not answer the bell,” Mohn said. Aleena Janousek led the way for the Eagle team which had eight different girls score. She had 14 points. Hayley Walkouski finished with 13. Kristen Mohn and Mallory Sewell had eight points each for Delton Kellogg. Sewell added four rebounds. Brooke Martin had six points and eight rebounds. The Delton Kellogg girls are now 1-1 on the season. They’ll be home Friday night for another KVA contest, against Maple Valley. Eastman led the Saxons with 11 rebounds and Horvat had four. Behind Anderson for the Panthers, Looking For a The Saxons’ Ian Beck goes up for a lay-up between the Panther’s Andrew Walker (left) and Ryan Anderson (right) after a steal in the fourth quarter Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Olivet’s pressure gets to DK girls in KVA opener The biggest thing Delton Kellogg varsity girls’ basketball head coach Mike Mohn saw Friday night was that his team has got to get tougher. The Panthers were tough enough early on to handle Olivet’s pressure, but eventually the Eagles’ defensive onslaught was too much and the Eagles opened the Kalamazoo Valley Association season with a 48-26 victory over the Panthers in Delton. “They never stop guarding you. They get after you and they make life miserable. We should be handling that, and we didn’t,” coach Mohn said. At least, the Panthers didn’t handle it after the first quarter. Delton led the game 11-4 with two minutes left in the opening quarter. A 12-0 run over the final two min- enced centers Stefan Horvat and Alex Cherry getting their first real varsity action. The Saxons will get a boost when senior center Eric Hart returns to the line-up soon. Heide matched Anderson for game-high scoring honors, finishing with 15 points. Clark had 11 points. Eastman finished with nine points, Horvat seven and Cherry had four. N the Saxon defense went to work in the fourth. The Saxons held the Panthers scoreless for the first six minutes of the final period. The Saxons had and early lead in the game as Heide and Maxwell Clark drilled threes in the opening minutes. DeWitt led 12-11 after one quarter, then really slowed the Saxon attack down in the second quarter. Storrs said the Panthers played more zone defense than the Saxons were expecting, and the Hastings offense isn’t quite where it wants to be against a zone yet this early in the year, especially with inexperi- NG by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Saxon student-section had already finished its “it’s all over chant” when Ian Beck’s pressure at the top of the key forced DeWitt’s Ryan Anderson to fire a pass that sailed past the basket and slammed against the cement wall on the east end of the Hastings High School gymnasium Tuesday. After the Saxons passed the ball in and let the final ticks go off the clock it really was “all over.” Hastings’ varsity boys’ basketball team opened the 2012-13 season with a 52-41 win over visiting DeWitt. Beck and the rest of the Saxon defense was a terror for Anderson and the Panthers in the second half. The Panthers led 27-19 at the half, but managed just 14 points in the entire second half including just four in the fourth quarter. Anderson tied for the game-high with 15 points, but had just two in the fourth quarter. Saxon coach Steven Storrs said that Beck moved into the role as the Saxons’ defensive stopper last season, coming on really strong in their team’s district victory over Thornapple Kellogg. “Coach sat me down and said to me ‘you’re going to be a defensive stopper,’” Beck said. “Before the game, and in practices leading up to the game ,I knew who I was going to guard. I knew I was going to guard number 4 (Anderson) and I knew he was going to shoot it every time he got the ball. I knew my role before I got to the game today.” Beck finished the night with six points, five steals and four assists. He had a couple of steals that turned into break-away layups in the fourth quarter, helping the Saxons to pull away. “I felt like it brought some energy to my team as well as translating to points on offense with the steals,” said Beck. “It felt good to help out my team in a way other than offense. It felt like I contributed to the team and I did my role well. It felt good to get a win in the first game. It really sets the tone for the rest of the season.” Michael Eastman had a big offensive contribution early in the second half. He scored seven points in the first three minutes of the third quarter to help the Saxons dig out of their half-time hole. He hit a three with 5:06 left on the third-quarter clock that pulled his team within one at 2928. A little over a minute later Luke Heide hit the second of his three three-pointers in the game to put the Saxons in front. The two teams were back and forth throughout the rest of the third quarter, until IG ES &D Try our new advanced photo processing system using the latest in digital technology providing you with the highest quality reproduction possible. We process 35mm Advanced Photo System and 120 film on site. 1 Hour or Next Day Processing • COLOR COPIES • COMMERCIAL PRINTING • INVITATIONS & MORE Conveniently located near you! J-Ad Graphics Printing Plus Charlotte Litho 1351 North M-43 Highway (just north of city limits) Hastings, MI 49058-0188 144 S. Cochran (right on Charlotte’s Main Street) Charlotte, Michigan 48813 (269) 945-5078 Fax (269) 945-5192 (517) 543-4041 Fax (517) 543-2272 Marshall Printing Plus Lowell Litho COMPLETE BINDERY 514 S. Kalamazoo Avenue Marshall, Michigan 49068 WEB AND SHEETFED OFFSET PRINTING (269) 727-0091 Fax (269) 727-0090 105 N. Broadway St. Lowell, MI 49331 (616) 897-9261 Fax (616) 897-4809 �Page 18 — Thursday, December 6, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Delton has young wrestling team this season by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Being young and inexperienced can be weaknesses in high school wrestling. Those things might be weaknesses for the Panthers early on this winter, but Delton Kellogg varsity wrestling coach Dan Phillips thinks that those things might just turn out to be strengths. “They are willing and eager to learn,” he said. He’s looking for solid contributions from a handful of freshmen, Jake Reed at 145 pounds, Cody Reed at 160, Brogan Smith at 119 and Robby Madden at 103 pounds. Sophomore Calob Montes should contribute at 215 pounds. The Panther team doesn’t have a single regional qualifier back, although they only had one regional qualifier last winter. Evan Curtice should fill the 171-pound slot quite nicely for Delton. He was the Kalamazoo Valley Association runner-up at 160 pounds a year ago. Curtice leads a list of returnees that also includes 171-pounder Hunter Chilton, 285pounder Blake Mast, 130-pounder Kenmark Maligat, 135-pounder Bobby Bottom and 140-pounders Cameron Hudson and Aaron Addison. The Delton boys were fourth in the Kalamazoo Valley Association a year ago, and will be chasing the ultimate goals of winning conference and district titles this winter according to Phillips. Great team chemistry could help them get there, although Constantine and Schoolcraft will be tough again in the league, along with Parchment and Pennfield. The Delton Kellogg team opened its season at Hopkins last night. The 2012-13 Delton Kellogg varsity wrestling team. Delton girls team has experience, needs depth The 2012-13 Delton Kellogg varsity boys’ basketball team. Senior trio set to lead Delton Kellogg boys squad by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Steve Miknis is still a Panther, but the wardrobe has changed from Pennfield’s green to Delton Kellogg’s maroon. It’s as fresh start for the Delton Kellogg varsity boys’ basketball team this season, after one of the best seasons ever for the program last winter. Delton won the 2011-12 Kalamazoo Valley Association (KVA) championship, finishing the year with a 17-4 record. Miknis takes over as head coach and he’ll have a lot of new guys on the floor for him. “We lost a lot of seniors from last season WILLIAMS-GORES FUNERAL HOME and have three returners,” Miknis said. “This year, our goal is to be competitive and continue to grown on and off the court. I like what I have seen so far from this group in practice and I am very excited to get to work with this group of kids.” The three returnees in the group are senior point guard Zach Leinaar, senior power forward Zach Meyers and senior center Justin Ferris. The Panthers will be looking for some guys to step up and fill roles, guys like junior guards TJ Wooden, Jeff Minehart, and Sam Horrocks, senior forward Josh Arkwright, senior center Colton Tobias, junior forward SCRAPALOO Anthony Houtrow and sophomore center Gary Egelkraut. Defending the KVA championship won’t be easy. Schoolcraft, Olivet and Pennfield all have solid groups hitting the floor this winter once again. Delton Kellogg opens the season, and KVA play, Friday at home against Maple Valley. The boys will play the 6 p.m. game for the first half of this season on Friday nights in the league. Delton’s boys will be home for their first three contests, taking on Hackett Catholic Central Tuesday and Constantine next Friday (Dec. 11). BUCKLAND AGENCY 11235 Sprague Rd, Delton “Where Scrapbooking is Fun!” 10090 S. M-43, Delton behind Delton Floral 110 W. Center, Suite B, Hastings 623-7310 948-3720 11320 S. M-43 Hwy, Delton DELTON FAMILY PHARMACY HERB DOSTER PHOTOGRAPHER Joseph C. Roth, DO, John D. Kehl, PA-C, Boe L Bissett, PA-C 338 Grove St. (M-43)Delton 13266 Enzian Rd. Delton 623-5521 623-5250 664-4584 B ORIGINAL HAIR SALON 133 Orchard, Delton 623-5461 DELTON MEDICAL CENTER 623-5115 SEPTIC TANK SERVICE 3840 Harrington Rd. Delton 623-2089 • 945-5379 Fast Reliable Service For Over 50 Years GROVE STREET CAFE M-43 Hwy. across from Delton Schools Try Our Pizza Take & Bake, To Go, Dine-in 623-3777 Now Under New Ownership NAPA OF DELTON 126 Orchard, Delton Larger inventory, more in-stock parts 623-4804 by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Panthers have either played a lot of basketball, or they haven’t. Delton Kellogg’s varsity girls’ basketball team returns four three-year varsity players this winter, and five real key contributors from last year’s squad. Behind them though, there isn’t much experience. Panther head coach Mike Mohn said that he’s got four girls who have never played any basketball above the middle school or junior varsity level. “We have to stay healthy, we have to stay out of foul trouble, and we have to make good decisions,” said Mohn. “The experience will help us out through the long run.” That group of three-year varsity players includes senior Mallory Sewell in the post and senior guards Brooke Martin and Rachel Parker, and junior guard Sarah Rendon. TUJAX TAVERN 623-8310 PIZZA 623-6201 Sewell was all-conference a year ago in the Kalamazoo Valley Association, averaging 8.5 points and 6.9 rebounds per game and Parker earned honorable mention all-conference for her tremendous defense. Sophomore forward Kristen Mohn is also back on the varsity after moving up from the junior varsity late last season. Coach Mohn said he could see junior center Christy Gonzalez stepping up to help out Sewell in the post this season. Parchment and Olivet are expected to be on the top of the KVA standings once again. The Eagles have already knocked off the Delton Kellogg girls this season. Delton takes on Parchment for the first time in the first game after the holiday break. Coach Mohn thinks that’s as good a time as any to face Parchment’s pressure, giving his girls plenty of time to prepare for it. KATIE & CHRISTY’S MID-LAKES SCREEN PRINTING • MONOGRAMMING ACTIVE WEAR & TANNING SALON 623-8340 Specializing in Fund Raising Programs & Advertising Specialties M-43, Delton New Kitchen - Fantastic Food! www.mid-lakes.net Wall Lake Cottage Rentals 121 E. Orchard, Delton DELTON HARDWARE & RENTAL DELTON FLORAL & GIFTS DELTON POLE BUILDING 114 Maple St. Delton 102 N. Grove, Delton 10120 S. Wall Lake Rd (M-43) Delton 10036 M-43, Delton 623-2152 623-5455 • 623-4099 623-5353 623-3300 SIMPLY SWEETS GO GO AUTO PARTS CHAPPLE REALTY INC. DEWEY’S Accepting New Patients LYONS The 2012-13 Delton Kellogg varsity girls’ basketball team. Team members are (front from left) Madison Conrad, Sarah Rendon, Rachel Parker, Brooke Martin, Aleeha Davis, (back) Hannah Okeley, Brookelynn OMeara, Mallory Sewell, Christy Gonzalez, Alexis Shoup, Kristen Mohn and Brianna Russell. Fresh baked goods & cakes for all occasions! inside Grove Street Cafè 623-8047 7709 Kingsbury Rd. Delton (269) 623-2775 These sponsors help support coverage of your local high school sports teams. Please show your thanks by supporting these sponsors! 118 E. Orchard, Delton 623-4058 AUTOMOTIVE SALES & SERVICE Since 1957 - 11301 S. M-43 Hwy, Delton 623-6301 WestMichiganLakes.com deweys-auto.com SMITH & DOSTER SALES & SERVICE THE CLOSET 114 Grove (M-43) Delton 623-5111 Family Consignment M-43 Hwy, Delton - inside DELTON SUDS LAUNDROMAT 623-5385 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, December 6, 2012 — Page 19 The 2012-13 Delton Kellogg varsity competitive cheer team. DK cheer team wants to defend conference crown by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Delton Kellogg varsity competitive cheer coach Zoe Reynolds spent a little time with the Delton middle school teams recently. One of the key things her varsity has been working on recently is coordination on its round one and two jumps. “It’s a lot of repetition and a lot of training to get that core really strong to get height with the legs and having those arms on time,” said Reynolds. By the end of a couple of practices with the middle school girls, Reynolds was thankful for the work that gets done before the Delton Kellogg girls get to the varsity. All that work has paid off for the Panthers. They won the Southern Michigan Competitive Cheer Conference last winter, and they’re hoping to do so again this winter. Seniors Corinthia Andersen and Cassidy Morgan are back to lead the way, along with junior Kelsey Vaughn and sophomore Riley Smith. Reynolds said she also expects key contributions from sophomores Claudia Andersen and Emmalea Wooden. The Panthers are feeling good heading into the season. At their first competition Reynolds saw things to clean up, but no major problems. Round three looked good, it was mostly just precision things to work on in the first two rounds. The Panthers are hoping for more than just a strong showing in the SMCCC though. The postseason has a chance of being more pleasant for the Panthers as they’ve dropped down to Division 4 this winter. Delton also wants to continue improving on the school record high score it set last season. Create your own customized holiday cards & books! Holiday greeting cards in full color with your special message! Great Holiday Gifts! BOWLING SCORES Sunday Night Mixed Comebacks 35; Street Bowlers 29; You’re Up N Shit 26; Sunday Snoozers 24; H20 24; Straightliners 21; The Wild Bunch 18. Women’s good games and series - M. Daniels 190-546; K. Becker 215-540; K. Genther 160-476; J. Shoebridge 137-388; K. Plett 131-336; J. Rice 209; S. Vandenburg 203; R. Hunt 118. Men’s good games and series - C. Santana 223-570; J. Shoebridge 207-561; T. Santana 188-470; R. Guild 210; E. Bartlett 202; B. Hubbell 198; B. Allen 194; B. Heath 166. Tuesday Mixed Hurless Machine Shop 37; Hometown Lumber 37; Barry Co. Red Cross 35.5; Boyce Milk Haulers 35; J-Bar Antique Tractors 21. High Game - D. Blakely 205; D. Benner 204; C. Featherly 190; G. Hause 186; R. Boniface 185; Sis 180; B. Ramey 168. High Series - D. Benner 564 and C. Featherly 529. Monday Mixerettes Dewey’s Auto Body 38-14; Kent Oil 34.517.5; Dean’s Dolls 33-19; Nashville Chiropractic 25-27; Creekside Growers 22.529.5. Good Games & Series: V. Carr 181-498; S. Nash 134-389; N. Potter 151; S. Dunham 192; K. Eberly 179; D. Snyder 170; T. Christopher 188; L. Elliston 204; B. Hathaway 156. Senior Citizens Sun Risers 36.5-15.5; Butterfingers 33-19; M&M’s 30-22; King Pins 30-22; Usedtobe #1 26-26; Ward’s Friends 22-30; Early Risers 2230; Three Gals & a Guy 21-31; Just Having Fun 20.5-31.5; Kuempel 19-33. Women’s good games and series: E. Ulrich 172; P. Freeman 143-364; A. Tasker 169-406; N. Frost 182-489; G. Scobey 163; R. Murphy 197-500. Men’s good games and series: J. Klembrink 153; B. Terry 225-571; R. Boniface 195-486; R. Walker 180-507; H. Bowman 189; D. Kiersey 188-528; W. Mallekoote 179-443; D. Murphy 153-387. • Flat Cards • Folded Cards • Calendar Cards Wed PM Court Side 35-17; Hair Care 35-17; Boniface Construction 34-18; Eye & ENT 2626; Delton Suds 25-27. Good games & series: S. Beebe 174-472; M. Adams 167-480; E. Ulrich 190-486; J. Pettengill 137; P. Freeman 159; J. Shurlow 146; L. Elliston 177-489; T. Christopher 169. as low as 60 ¢ each Tuesday Trios Washking 44-12; Sam 38-15; CBS 33-23; Coleman Ins. 29-23; Team Turkey 29-27; Look Ins. 26-30; Lu’s Team 24.5-27.5; Classic Trio 24-32; Blair Landscaping 19.536.5; Ghost Team 0-56. High Game - Shirlee V. 203; Renee B. 178; Lindsey 170. High series - Shirlee V. 527; Renee B. 501; Donna 487. Thurday Majors Pocket Ponders 33-19; Hastings Bowl 3121; Red Rockets 31-21; Old Men 30-22; Arens Lawn 25-27; Muff Divers 24.5-27.5; HDR 24.5-27.5. High Games and Series - W. Lydy 201; H. Moore 205-569; M. Davis 267-737; P. Gasper 224-639; D. Rose 169; D. Gonzales 239-698; A. Taylor 186; B. Taylor 215-604; J. Barnum 209; D. Smith 224; B. Burke 153; D. Davey 161; D. Lundstrum 146; M. Magoon 201-614; D. Endres 235-671; J. Olin 202-551; D. Hiar 221-585; J. Gibson 207; C. Micel 224. Thursday Angels Riverfront Fin. Ser. 34-14; Moore’s Apts. 31-17; Varney’s Const. 31-17; Hastings Bowl 27.5-16.5; Miller Farm Repair 23.5-20.5; Cathy’s Cut & Curl 22-26; D J on the Roll 1533. High Games and Series - D. McCollum 181; C. Purdum 174; L. Brandt 175; K. Shumway 163; C. Doornbos 218-558; C. Gdula 175; M. Gdula 258-625; J. Myers 168; W. Barker 178-448; D. Curtis 177; C. Hurless 153; T. Dickinson 147; M. Weiler 145; B. Brown 166; J. Wood 178-450; L. Kendall 179; L. Jackson 142. SAXON WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE Photo Books Tell a story... create lasting memories! • • • • Holiday Books Wedding Memories Cook Books Family Albums prices starting at 13 $ Hard Bound - Soft Bound - Spiral Bound Just in time for the holidays. Capture those memories for years of enjoyment. All customized by you or with the help of our professional staff Complete online schedule at: www.hassk12.org THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6 WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 12 6:00 pm Boys Varsity Swimming Byron Center HS A 6:00 pm Girls MS Cheer Thornapple-Kellogg MS A 4:15 pm 4:15 pm 5:30 pm 5:30 pm 6:00 pm 6:30 pm 4:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:30 pm 5:30 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm Boys Girls Boys Girls Boys Girls Fresh. Fresh. JV JV Varsity Varsity Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Alma HS Reeths-Puffer HS Alma HS Reeths-Puffer HS Alma HS Reeths-Puffer HS A H A H A H SATURDAY, DECEMBER 8 TBA Boys Varsity Wrestling 9:00 am Boys JV Wrestling 10:00 am Girls MS Cheer OPEN DATE H Lakewood HS A Lowell MS (Lowell MS Inv) A MONDAY, DECEMBER 10 4:15 pm 4:15 pm 5:30 pm 5:30 pm Boys Boys Boys Boys 8th A 7th A 7th B 8th B Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Wyoming Jr. HS Wyoming Jr. HS Wyoming Jr. HS Wyoming Jr. HS A H H A TUESDAY, DECEMBER 11 4:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:30 pm 5:30 pm 6:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm Boys Girls Boys Girls Boys Boys Girls Fresh. Fresh. JV JV Varsity Varsity Varsity Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Swimming Basketball Basketball Lakewood HS Calvin Christian HS Lakewood HS Lakewood HS Unity Christian HS Lakewood HS Lakewood HS A H A H H A H Times and dates subject to change 7th B 8th B 8th A 7th A JV Varsity Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Wrestling Wrestling Duncan Lake MS Duncan Lake MS Duncan Lake MS Duncan Lake MS Wayland Union HS Wayland Union HS A H H A A A THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13 4:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:30 pm 5:30 pm 6:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm Boys Girls Boys Girls Girls Boys Girls Fresh. Fresh. Varsity JV MS JV Varsity Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Cheer Basketball Basketball Hopkins HS @ MS Parchment HS @ HS Hopkins HS @ HS Hopkins HS @ MS Wayland MS Hopkins HS @ MS Hopkins HS @ HS H H H H A H H Thanks to This Week’s Sponsor: Hastings Orthopedic Clinic, P.C. “Quality Care with Compassion” 840 Cook Rd. Hastings, MI 49058 Phone: 269-945-9520 Toll Free: 800-596-1005 Contact us on the web @ www.hoc-mi.com HASTINGS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS Contact Nancy 945-2742 or hastingsathleticboosters@gmail.com to sponsor the schedule 77572791 FRIDAY, DECEMBER 7 Boys Boys Boys Boys Boys Boys 1351 N.Broadway (M-43) Hastings 269.945.9105 OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:30 - 5:30 SAT. DEC. 15 & 22 8:30 - 1:00 each �Page 20 — Thursday, December 6, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LHS boys win by 20 in opener by Brett Bremer Sports Editor More than once the Viking coaching staff had to tell its players “you’ve gotta relax” in the lead-up to Tuesday’s season opener at Charlotte. New Lakewood varsity boys’ basketball coach Wayne Piercefield said that senior Alex Potter came up to him before the game and said, “my heart feels like it’s going to beat our of my chest.” Somehow the Vikings settled down and settled in. They knocked off the host Orioles 65-45. Piercefield said he thought his guys were just sick of beating each other up after a few weeks of tough, physical practices. They were really ready to lean on somebody else. Potter led the way, knocking down five three-pointers and finishing with 17 points. The Vikings were 10-of-18 from three-point range as a team, and shot better from behind the arc than they did inside of it. Jacob Buehler added nine points and three assists for the Vikings. Point guard Kalib McKinney had eight points to go along with eight assists. Dylan Durkee had six points as well as a team-high nine rebounds. David Parks contributed six points, six rebounds and four steals. McKinney led a total team effort against the Orioles’ non-stop full-court pressure. “There were two or three times in the first quarter where the ball never even hit the floor and we shot lay-ups,” said Piercefield. Lakewood raced out to a 30-14 lead in the first two quarters. “We had great help-side defense,” Piercefield said. “Charlotte tried to run a lot of ball screens and we helped extremely well. It was five guys, five guys working on the floor at all times.” Charlotte put together a bit of a run, but the Vikings held them off in a whistle-filled fourth quarter. The Orioles were 13-of-20 at the free throw line in the fourth quarter, and the Vikings went 5-of-14 at the stripe in the final period. That is one spot the Vikings would like to get better. They were just 13-of-31 at the free throw line for the night. Alec Trzeciak led the Orioles with 12 points. Latrell Lavenduski had eight and Donnie Prudden seven. Pruden got all seven of his points going 7-of-8 at the three throw line in the fourth quarter. The Vikings open Capital Area Activities Conference White Division play Friday at home against Williamston. Lakewood’s Jacob Buehler pushes the ball past Charlotte’s Jesse Haga for an easy transition lay-up Tuesday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) The Vikings’ Alex Potter was deadly from the three-point line at Charlotte Tuesday. He led all scorers with 17 points on the night. (Photo by Perry Hardin) A little help from everyone gets Vikings past P-W by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Ellie Reynolds had a big smile on her face after committing her fifth foul with 1:53 left to play Friday. The Lakewood senior guard made her way over to the bench, slapped a couple of fives, and sat down and covered her face with her hands before turning around with a smile to grab her water bottle. It was that kind of night for the Vikings - a little frustrating at times, but mostly good. Lakewood’s varsity girls’ basketball team opened the 2012-13 season with a 41-33 victory over visiting Pewamo-Westphalia. The Vikings could have won by a little more. Their lead was as many as 16 points in the third quarter. They could have won by a little less. The Pirates were 0-of-5 at the free throw line in the final 30 seconds of the game. “It’s a good win for us with everything that’s taken place,” said Lakewood head coach Denny Frost. “The girls stepped up and did the job.” Senior Emily Kutch led the way for the Vikings with 16 points, eight rebounds and four steals. She was 10-of-13 at the free throw line. Senior point guard Brooke Wieland had five points, to go along with three assists and three steals. The Vikings also got five points each from seniors Liz Campeau and Hannah Morris and nine points from junior Konnor Geiger. Lakewood’s Emily Kutch surveys the floor as she’s defended by PewamoWestphalia’s Madison Smith during the first half Friday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) “I give credit to Hannah. She didn’t play hardly at all last year. She worked hard this summer. She’s worked hard this fall and she played her butt off. She dug for loose balls, she got rebounds, she hit a big three when they were making a run. She did a lot of little things.” Morris’ three came with 4:35 to go in the fourth quarter, and accounted for the Vikings’ first points of the period. Pewamo-Westphalia scored the first six points of the fourth quarter to cut into the Vikings’ lead. The Pirates had it down to ten before Morris’ three made it 3219. The Pirates were as close as six points in the final two minutes. Madison Smith hit two free throws, after Reynolds’ fouled out, to make it 37-28. Hannah Thelen then completed a three-point play at the foul-line, after racing in for a lay-up following a Viking turnover with 1:43 to play, making it 37-31. “We got tired and we didn’t execute as well in the second half,” Frost said. “The first half, (Kutch) broke open for some easy shots inside and got to the free throw line. In the second half, as we got tired, we didn’t cut as hard. We didn’t pick as well. So, the offense got stagnant.” Campeau found space for a couple of inside buckets, Kutch attacked the basket well, and Geiger hit some big jumpers to get the Vikings off to their good start. “Ellie Reynolds who didn’t play a lot last year, stepped up and gave me good minutes,” Frost said. “McLean came in and played great defense, which is what we ask her to do. Lakewood’s Brooke Wieland dribbles around Pewamo-Westphalia’s Hannah Thelen during Friday night’s season opener at Lakewood High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) This Christmas Shop Downtown and you’ll find there’s more D iscoverto Hastings, explore this holiday season. Shop Downtown Hastings ... where the Holidays begin! 77572921 Make your shopping and dining experience a very special one this season by discovering the vibrant charm of our unique shops & restaurants. Konnor Geiger obviously was huge scoring nine points in her first varsity game.” Reynolds had three steals. Morris had a team-high four steals. McLean had four rebounds. Marlena Klein led Pewamo-Westphalia with 12 points and Smith added eight. With Wieland and Kutch controlling the basketball, the Vikings didn’t have too much trouble with the Pirates’ full-court pressure, but Frost said he expected it to be tougher against the talented Charlotte team the Vikings faced Tuesday. Kutch didn’t get to deal with it much. She only played three minutes before the fourth quarter because of foul trouble Tuesday. Frost called it a great win for his team’s bench though as the Vikings topped the visiting Orioles 38-35. Reynolds, McLean, Taylor VantLand and Geiger came off the bench to provide solid defensive minutes. “It was an ugly game from an offensive stand point, but the kids gave great energy at the defensive end and competed against a solid team,” said Frost. “Our bench won the game by keeping us in it until we could get Emily back in. We kept the game at our pace and didn’t allow Charlotte to get us into an open court game. They have some very solid perimeter players. We made them work for the points that they did get.” Charlotte took a 24-19 lead with a 14-5 run in the third quarter. Kutch came back to help the offense in the fourth, going 11-for-11 at the free throw line in the final eight minutes. She finished with 19 points and five rebounds. Wieland had a solid defensive effort as well, and hit a big three to cut the Oriole lead to three points in the fourth quarter. She finished with six points, four rebounds and four steals. Liz Campeau had nine rebounds to go with four points. Geiger had four points as well, and six rebounds. The Vikings open conference play against Williamston at home Friday. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-12-13.pdf 373411ede4b290c7c5b03ed019e65fb6 PDF Text Text State tax formula has commissioners steaming Leadership skills are more than miracles Delton Kellogg boys get first win, in OT See Story on Page 3 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 14 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 49 BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, December 13, 2012 Citizens ask for a full investigation into animal cruelty NEWS BRIEFS Band and choir concerts are this weekend The public is invited to attend the Christmas collage concerts which will be put on by both the Hastings middle school and high school bands and choirs Sunday, Dec. 16, in the high school gymnasium. The middle school band and choirs will perform at 2 p.m. and the high school band and choirs will begin their concert at 4 p.m. Both concerts will feature the sounds of the seasons. The steel drum band and high school jazz band will also be making appearances during the high school concert. Love Inc. seeking holiday help for families Some local families with children are still in need of individuals or groups willing to sponsor, or adopt, them this Christmas season. Anyone interested in more information about adopting a family for Christmas is asked to call Love Inc., 269-948-9555, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. Blood donations still needed during holidays Upcoming blood drives in the area include: Delton — Monday, Dec. 17, St. Ambrose Church, 11149 Floria Road; 1 to 6:45 p.m. Lake Odessa — Monday, Dec. 17, Central United Methodist Church, 912 Fourth Ave.; noon to 5:45 p.m. Hastings — Thursday, Dec. 20, Hastings Moose Lodge, 128 N. Michigan; 1 to 6:45 p.m. Anyone who is 17 or older, weighs at least 110 pounds, is in reasonably good health and has not donated for 56 days is eligible to give blood. Visit www.redcrossblood.org or call 800-RED-CROSS to make an appointment. Coat drive underway at Pierce Cedar Creek Institute Pierce Cedar Creek Institute is collecting new and gently used winter coats, blankets, gloves and mittens. Donations may be dropped off Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., or at any weekend program sponsored by the institute. “This is the eighth year Pierce Cedar Creek Institute has assisted Second Hand Corners providing used winter coats, mittens and gloves to those who can put them to good use,” said Michelle Skedgell, executive director at Pierce. “Our members and visitors have generously donated each year, bringing in bags of items that will help others stay warm. I guess you could say it’s an example of recycling at its finest.” Anyone who drops off a donation will receive a coupon for $1 off Sunday brunch at the institute, held the second Sunday of each month. Donations may also be given directly to Second Hand Corners, at the corner of State and Jefferson streets in downtown Hastings. Second Hand Corners delivers the winter gear and blankets to anyone in need this winter. by David DeDecker Staff Writer As the public awaits the court appearance of a Middleville woman arrested Nov. 17 on an animal cruelty warrant, some are now charging the Barry County Sheriff’s Department with attempting to cover up its investigation. Marcie Tepper, 54, has not be arraigned, nor has a date for arraignment been set as of press time Dec. 12. The Barry County Prosecutor confirmed he does know Tepper’s location though speculation varies on why she has not been arraigned or responded to key questions revolving around numerous dogs and pets found dead on her property. In a letter provided to the Banner and addressed to Barry County Prosecutor Tom Evans dated Dec. 9, a Middleville woman writes, “Several of the community believes there is a cover up going on with this case. We are asking there be a full investigation into this case.” The letter was also addressed to Barry County Commissioner Craig Stolsonburg. Through a Freedom of Information Act request, the Banner has obtained a copy of a Barry County Sheriff’s report and related documents that provide a glimpse into the affair. The investigation of animal cruelty charges against Tepper started with a home foreclosure sale. Before the new owner took possession of the Tepper’s former house in October, no charges were brought against her, even though people have now come forward to say that her conduct had been reported to authorities. The sheriff’s department report shows that an investigation has been made by law enforcement officers. When deputies arrived at Tepper’s former residence on Finkbeiner Road Oct. 13, they reported finding a dead, rotting dog in the garage. Five live goats were also found on the property. Deputies reported no one appeared to be living on the property. The new owner said he had purchased the home April 12 in a foreclosure auction. He told deputies he needed to wait six months before taking possession of the property. He said at the time of the auction there were at least four large white dogs at the property, along with several goats. According to the police report, the deputy and new owner entered the house Oct. 13 and found “the residence was completely disgusting and unfit for anything to live in.” A live dog, a Yorkshire in poor health, was running around inside the house, and the deputy transported the dog to the Barry County Animal Shelter. The Yorkie was treated by a vet for skin issues and flea problems. In a statement filed by the new homeowner, the man said he and a deputy entered the house to find it destroyed. He reported the floors were covered with dog feces, inches thick in some places. “The smell was overwhelming of ammonia, mice were everywhere,” the owner said in his Oct. 19 written statement filed by the sheriff’s department. “She didn’t think someone was going to buy the home. She thought the home was going to go back to the bank, so that is why she let the property get destroyed by animals. She also said she allowed several dogs to occupy the home freely. She said she would leave the exterior doors open so the dogs could roam inside and outside the home. I asked her what happened to the other dogs that I saw on the property six months prior. She would not tell me.” At the end of his statement, the homeowner writes, “I have been buying and rehabbing properties since 2005. This property is by far the worst condition I have ever seen. This home is beyond repair and will have to be See ANIMAL CRUELTY, pg 2 City voters to decide fate of Riverside Cemetery by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer Residents in the city of Hastings will decide the fate of the 150-year-old Riverside Cemetery on West State Road. Voters will be asked in May 2013 to approve an up to 1-mill levy to support operations, maintenance and improvements if the city acquires the property and makes it a municipal cemetery or if the private corporation that currently owns and operates the cemetery should dissolved and turn over its remaining funds and the cemetery to the state, which will abandon it. The Hastings City Council Monday evening by a 6-1 vote approved a motion to put the matter before voters. Trustees Jeri DePue and Don Bowers were absent. Mayor Pro-tem Brenda McNabb-Stange cast the dissenting vote. Prior to the vote, McNabb-Stange said she had presented the council with several pages of concerns and questions regarding the potential transfer of property from the Riverside Cemetery Corporation to the city. “I think we are rushing things because we have hardly gotten the information that we have,” she said. “But, primarily, one thing we do need is an opinion, formal legal opinion, regarding certain issues that are in the due diligence, like the fact, are they even a corporation?” McNabb-Stange said Riverside Cemetery does not show up on the nonprofit organization lists either. “I don’t know how we can get something from a corporation that doesn’t exist, if that is indeed the case,” she said. “I think it needs to be investigated and shown what the status is. I have a whole list of questions about disclosure issues, and ...” Hastings Mayor Frank Campbell said the city’s lawyer, Stephanie Fekkes, and the Cemetery Action Group’s lawyer, Bob Byington, have been working together. “I’m really comfortable with what is proposed tonight by them,” said Campbell, adding that the council is only being asked to establish a cemetery advisory committee and let the voters decide whether they want a millage to support the city’s maintenance of the cemetery.” McNabb-Stange once again stated that she had many concerns about the city acquiring the cemetery. “I understand mayor pro-tem’s concern, and I think that we as a council have our faith in our counsel, attorney, and if something is wrong with her opinion, then we need to do something about her,” said council member Bill Redman. “She hasn’t given us an opinion. She has never given us an opinion,” said McNabb- Members of Hastings American Legion Post 45 with help from the local Cub and Boy Scout troops conduct their annual Memorial Day ceremony in Riverside Cemetery. Monday evening Jim Atkinson said he and other Legionnaires are concerned about the condition and future of the cemetery. (File photo) Stange. Redman said Fekkes and Byington had been working together and he was satisfied. “I think it is up to the citizens whether they do or do not pay for this,” he said. Fekkes said she has not written a formalized legal opinion, as she might in larger matters; but, she had been in constant contact with Hastings City Manager Jeff Mansfield, addressing issue and concerns as they arose throughout the preliminary processes. Fekkes said she has checked with the State of Michigan and confirmed that the Riverside Cemetery Corporation is in good standing. See CEMETERY, page 3 Hastings teacher absences spike Tuesday Right to work legislation is passed in Lansing same day by Sandra Ponsetto Staff Writer While administrators in surrounding school districts reported an average number of teacher absences Tuesday, Dec. 11, Hastings Area Schools administration reported 35 teachers — nearly twice the recent daily average — were absent the day Gov. Rick Snyder signed House Bill 4003 and Senate Bill 116, making Michigan the 24th state to enact a “right to work” law. Representatives from the Hastings Education Association could not be reached for comment at press time to answer whether Tuesday’s spike in teacher absences had anything to do with the protests in Lansing, which drew thousands of workers and union representatives to the Capitol building in Lansing. Hastings Superintendent of Schools Todd See TEACHERS, page 3 Hotel construction progressing The construction for Hastings’ 62-room Holiday Inn Express and Suites is underway on West State Street across from the new building housing Biggby Coffee, San Marcos restaurant and Jet’s Pizza. “I was looking for a vibrant community that needed a hotel, and Hastings exceeded my expectations,” said hotel developer Mike Moyle of Rockford. “There’s just so much going on — not only healthy and vibrant businesses, but different events like the jazz festival, the Gus Macker Tournament and everything at the Barry Expo Center. Plus, there’s just some terrific restaurants.” Construction workers are pictured working on the cement block tower which will house the hotel’s elevator. The hotel is scheduled for a summer 2013 opening. �Page 2 — Thursday, December 13, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Departing county commissioners honored Dan Parker’s commemorative plaque calls out his “sound judgment and his skills as a consensus builder.” Parker (left) receives the plaque from Craig Stolsonburg. Posing Tuesday for its last official photograph as a county commission are (front row, from left) Don Nevins, Howard “Hoot” Gibson, Ben Geiger, Dan Parker, (back) Robert Houtman, Jeff VanNortwick, Joe Lyons and Craig Stolsonburg. Due to redistricting and results of the Nov. 6 general election, only Gibson, Geiger and Stolsonburg will be returning to next year’s seven-member board. Right: The award presented to Joe Lyons (left) by Ben Geiger recognizes him as “a key supporter of the five-year plan for the Hastings City/Barry County Airport to become self-supporting.” At 10 years of service, Don Nevins (left) is the elder statesman of the five departing county commissioners. Nevins also served the county as a sheriff’s deputy for 27 years. Craig Stolsonburg presents the plaque. A portion of Tuesday’s Barry County Board of Commissioners meeting was devoted to honoring five commissioners who will be departing from board service as well as County Prosecutor Tom Evans, who was unable to attend. Don Nevins was honored for 10 years of service, Jeff VanNortwick for six, Joe Lyons and Robert Houtman for four years each, and Dan Parker for two. Evans was appointed to serve as prosecutor in 2006 and served as elected prosecutor beginning in 2007. Board Chair Craig Stolsonburg and Vice Chair Ben Geiger presented commemorative plaques to each retiring commissioner, with Geiger not missing an opportunity to compare his shorter stature to the much taller Lyons and VanNortwick, who stood next to him. “I’ve always looked up to Joe, and I think I always will,” quipped Geiger, who, when introducing VanNortwick said, “Jeff is a big man, with a big heart.” Replacing the five will be newly elected James DeYoung, James Dull, Jon Smelker, and Joyce Snow. The board will be reduced by one member due to redistricting. Jeff VanNortwick (left) is recognized by his board colleagues Tuesday as “a passionate and vocal advocate for environmental and quality-of-life issues on behalf of the citizens of Barry County,” on a plaque presented to him by Board Vice Chair Ben Geiger. ANIMAL CRUELTY, continued from page 1 Among his many accomplishments noted Tuesday, Robert Houtman’s honorary plaque includes recognition for his efforts “to preserve and improve the lives of unwanted animals in Barry County through the creation of the Animal Shelter Advisory Board.” Board Chair Craig Stolsonburg (right) presents the plaque. Woody’s General Store 110 W. State Street • (269) 948-9840 Help Us Help Barry County Kids! BRING IN A NEW UNWRAPPED TOY and receive a FREE 2 Liter of any Coca-Cola Product (While supplies last.) SANTA Don’t Forget on Friday, Dec. 14 from 5-8 pm H NEW! H We have Assorted Knives and Radio Controlled Helicopters 77573136 Great for Gift Giving! torn down.” The new home owner and Tepper met a Barry County Animal Control officer at the home Oct. 15. The dog carcass in the garage was rolled into a tarp, double bagged and transported to a local vet for necropsy. On Oct. 17 the veterinarian’s office reportedly said, “Could not find any information on cause of death of the deceased dog because the dog was too far gone.” Tepper told the officer the Great Pyrenees dog had died 2 1/2 weeks prior from a tumor in its tail, and did not starve to death. When the officer asked her why she had not disposed of the body, Tepper reportedly said her yard was clay and she could not dig a hole. She told the animal control officer the Yorkie was vicious and feral and she could not catch it. She had left the house’s back door open so the dog could leave. Tepper signed over possession of the Yorkie, and the goats were also removed from the property. According to the police report, Tepper admitted to having too much pride to call anyone for help. The officer reported that Tepper said she has not had heat or electricity in the house for two years. Tepper said she was using portable propane heaters and had two operational circuit breakers to run the well for water. She told the officer she was so embarrassed of her actions and was afraid anyone to find out, especially Sheriff Dar Leaf because she had been representing him on the animal shelter’s advisory board. She said she wondered how she could tell the Sheriff she was living out of her car. Deputies received an authorized warrant from the Barry County Prosecutor Nov. 9 to pick up Tepper on animal cruelty. Animal Control officers again went to the Finkbeiner Road residence Nov. 16, in reference to a bag containing the body of a dead dog. Reportedly, several other bags were found, but were not opened until authorities arrived. Animal Control staff wore protective gear and air-filtration masks. As they approached the site, three dead dogs and a dead bird were discovered lying uncovered. According to the report, more plastic bags were found underneath that contained animals in various states of decomposition. Eleven bags were reportedly collected that day. “I observed at least one more dog, what appeared to be a calf, and four bags were decomposed too far to identify the species,” reads the report. “Those bags did have hair, fur and/or bones in the soupy contents.” Tepper went to the Barry County Sheriff’s Department Nov. 17 to turn herself in on the outstanding warrant issued Nov. 9. During the initial interview at the sheriff’s department, Tepper told officers that she had no permanent address and was living “here and there.” She was asked about the additional dead animals found on her property. Tepper said those animals were from three years ago. She told authorities she planned on burying the euthanized animals, but the ground was too hard and she decided to wait until she had the goats euthanized. When asked how the animals were euthanized, Tepper said they were taken to a vet. “It costs so much to have them cremated,” she said in the interview. Animals found on her property had been packed in double bags, and when asked if she or the vet had done the bagging, Tepper said she could not remember. When asked about the number of animals, Tepper said there had been five, but not all at one time. When told 11 different bags of animals were found, Tepper replied, “It didn’t seem like there were that many.” During the interview, Tepper was asked if there were any dead puppies. She replied, “I don’t know. They were small dogs. People keep pressuring you to take, take, take, and it’s like, but they are not adoptable and then what do you do, you know? Where do you turn?” Tepper was released on a $100 bond the same weekend. The sheriff’s department received an email from Tepper Nov. 17, saying she did remember 11 of 12 puppies dying. Tepper said the vet told her the puppies died of liver or kidney problems. She said the mother of the pups, which Tepper received from Alabama, had been vaccinated while pregnant. She states in the email she gave the puppies IVs, though she does not identify the content of the injections, but could not save them. A Nov. 21 sheriff’s report said the 11 bags of deceased animals taken from the Finkbeiner property were removed from the freezer and cremated at the Barry County Animal Shelter. While Animal Control staff was conducting the investigation, they discovered Tepper has a website that was still accepting rescues of Great Pyrenees. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, December 13, 2012 — Page 3 TEACHERS, continued from page 1 Geerlings said that two of the teachers were out of the classroom to attend meetings to discuss individual educational plans. However, he said that under the current contract, teachers are allowed a total of 10 paid absences each year and school administration does not have information regarding why so many were not in the classroom Tuesday. “I don’t know, and I really don’t want to speculate,” he said. “Over the last couple of weeks, since Thanksgiving break, we’ve had an average of 17 teachers out each day; but, that number includes teachers who are out of the classroom for conferences, IEPs, etc..” According to Geerlings, 14 teachers were absent from Hastings High School, seven from the middle school, 12 from Central Elementary, one from Southeastern Elementary, one from Star Elementary, and none from Northeastern Elementary School. He said substitute teachers are paid $75 per day, which means yesterday’s spike in absences cost the district $2,625. Maple Valley Schools reported nine teach- CEMETERY, continued page 1 “You may have a tax-exempt issues, that is what your question is,” said Fekkes to McNabb-Stange. “But, they are a legally recognized corporation with the State of Michigan.” Fekkes said many of McNabb-Stange’s other questions and concerns could be considered fine-tuning of the agreement between the city and the cemetery corporation. “We’re acquiring the assets of a corporation; we are not acquiring a corporation,” she said. “Riverside Cemetery will be dissolved; it will no longer be a viable, or working entity within the State of Michigan. What we would be doing after this point is determining what assets from that corporation will transfer to the City of Hastings prior to its dissolution. Obviously, real estate is the biggest portion of that.” She said McNabb-Stange’s issues and concerns will be addressed as they arise as the city and the cemetery corporation determine what assets the city is willing to acquire. McNabb-Stange said that if the cemetery has not been tax-exempt and is found to be in arrears, the city, upon acquiring the assets would become liable for those taxes. “I would never advise my client to assume that liability,” assured Fekkes. “If it was not properly tax-exempt, [the taxes] would run with the land; but, that is something that obviously, as part of the land transfer agreement, would dictate that those would be corrected before the closing of the sale or transfer of assets.” Fekkes said an existing driveway encroachment and other minor issues discovered during due diligence are not insurmountable obstacles. “Those are all things that in the transfer-ofassets agreement would be identified as something that would have to be corrected and remedied and transferred to us free of any encumbrances or liens,” she said. Jim Atkinson, a member of the Cemetery Action Campaign Committee and as a representative of American Legion Post 45, spoke in support of putting the millage before voters. Atkinson said as part of its annual Memorial Day observance, American Legion Post 45 conducts a ceremony at the cemetery, which includes laying a wreath on the grave of the first and the last veterans buried there. “Over the last nine years, we have gone to the gravesite of the last veteran buried at the Riverside Cemetery,” he said. “Four years ago, that veteran happened to be buried in the far southeast corner of the cemetery, on a big ridge that overlooks the river... We had to walk through, from the site of GAR Monument, walk through the cemetery to the part of the cemetery that is on the south side of State Road and we got a good idea of some of the repairs that [are] needed.” The head of the legion’s color guard at that time, Ron Miller, was extremely upset with the appearance of the cemetery, said Atkinson, and asked Atkinson, the legion’s adjunct, if the legion could volunteer to upgrade the maintenance of the cemetery. Atkinson said that after a discussion with Rod Newton, president of the Riverside Cemetery Board, he went back to the legion which determined they didn’t have enough manpower to take on the maintenance. “That didn’t stop us from thinking that that place really needed upgrading,” Atkinson told the council. “We have over 400 grave markers out there of veterans that are buried in the cemetery. And, of course, all of the people that have relatives buried out there get to see that place, and it does need some maintenance.” Atkinson said he is not sure the city council did enough to show its support during the previous two attempts to pass a cemetery millage. “I’m here tonight as a member of the campaign committee, representing the veterans that are interested in this, to tell that you it is a very, very serious issue for the American Legion, for the citizens of this community that have people buried out there and the future citizens that may be buried out there,” he said. Atkinson said that while the previous two cemetery millage proposals did not pass, there are not enough funds for the corporation to continue to maintain and operate the cemetery, creating an urgency that wasn’t there before, if Riverside Cemetery is to endure. According to Mansfield, the May special election would be conducted at no cost to the city because the approximately $4,000 cost would be paid for with funds from the Cemetery Action Group, which are being administered by the Barry Community Foundation. He added that the election would be in May to allow the millage, if approved by voters, to be on the books before the start of the city’s 2013-14 fiscal year. A second related motion, to create a cemetery preservation advisory board and transfer Riverside Cemetery perpetual care funds to the Barry Community Foundation for specified purposes contingent upon passage of the millage proposal, was also approved by a 6-1, vote with McNabb-Stange dissenting. In other business, the council: • Approved a request from Carl Schoessel to allow the closure of State and Jefferson streets from approximately 9 p.m. Monday, Dec. 31, until approximately 12:30 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 1, and also during that time allow a disc jockey and band to play music from a portable stage located at that intersection and a large tent to be placed on State Street between Jefferson and Church streets, as well as various other displays and sales for the fourth annual community New Year’s Eve celebration. • Held a first reading of Ordinances No. 487 through 491, which would amend the building setbacks in the A-2, B-1, B-3, B-4 and B-5 zoning districts to allow greater flexibility in maximum and minimum setbacks in those areas which encompass the downtown business and surrounding zoning districts with the exception of the M-43/M-37 corridor west of downtown. The council will hold a second reading on the proposed amendments during its next meeting, which is slated for 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 26. • Held a first reading on draft Ordinance No. 492, which would regulate fireworks in the city. The ordinance was prepared by Mansfield, who told said the State of Michigan allows municipalities to prohibit the discharge of fireworks in urban settings other than on a national holiday, or the day before or after a national holiday. However, he said the ordinance was only a draft, meant to prompt a discussion of whether Hastings needs such an ordinance. The council did not take action on the draft; the consensus of the members being to table the ordinance at its next meeting and delay further discussion until its first meeting in January to allow citizens to contact council members and express their opinion regarding the ordinance. • Unanimously approved an agreement, as recommended by the Hastings City/Barry County Airport Commission, with current manager Mark Noteboom for management services. Changes from the previous contract include an increase from a one- to a two-year contract; increase in annual compensation from $39,500 to $42,500 for each year of the contract; and a requirement that the manager give at least one annual formal report to the city council as well as the Barry County Board of Commissioners. • Heard a report from Hastings Director of Public Services Tim Girrbach in which he said the engineering firm has finished the legal descriptions of the Riverwalk Project Phase 2 and staff members are working on obtaining grading easements to forward along with the signed grant paperwork that needs to be submitted to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources before bids are let. Girrbach said plans are to let bids in February, with construction to start in the spring when weather allows. Girrbach also reported that the Department of Environmental Quality has notified the DPS that the city did not successfully complete it’s lead and copper monitoring requirements before the Sept. 30 deadline and has been fined $200 and must take corrective action. To return to compliance, the city must successfully complete monitoring requirements during June, July, August or September 2013. He said the that at no time has public health or welfare been jeopardized, nor will it be before the monitoring is successfully completed in 2013. • Heard a presentation from Barry County Area Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Alliance Executive Director Valerie Byrnes. She told the council that Hastings had been named the 2012 Gus Macker Rookie Community of the Year and that plans are already underway to make next year’s event even bigger and better. • Unanimously approved a charitable gaming license for Hastings Athletic Boosters to allow the organization to hold a reverse raffle fundraiser during March 2013. • Approved a bid from Secant Technology to improve technology related to the city’s primary servers and software and data backup system, as well as software upgrades for employee work stations, at a cost o $37,074, as recommended by City Clerk/Treasurer Tom Emery as part of the municipality’s 2012-13 Capital Improvement Plan. • Approved a pre-application for a Michigan State Housing Development Authority grant housing and rental rehabilitation in the city’s A-O zoning district which is a triangle bounded by the west side of South Hanover Street and East State Street and the south side of Green Street. The A-O zoning district is part of a larger area, which extends the triangle south to Hubbell Street, where approximately 400 volunteers participating in the 2013 Group Cares program are planning to work on home repairs and improvements for elderly or other homeowners in need. ers absent Tuesday, while Lakewood Public Schools reported six absent district-wide, and Thornapple Kellogg reported that teacher attendance in the district was average Tuesday. Delton Kellogg Superintendent Paul Blacken said six teachers were absent. A press release from the State of Michigan, dated Tuesday, Dec. 11, said SB 116, or Public Act 348 of 2012, and HB 4003, PA 349 of 2012 do not prohibit unions or collective bargaining and do not have an impact on workplace health and safety regulations; but, rathera the bills state that agreements between employers and unions can not require public and private sector employees to join a union or pay union dues. Police and firefighters are exempt from the new laws under PA 312, because of the hazardous nature of their work. Contract negotiations between Hastings Area Schools and the HEA have been con- tentious this year and have been turned over to the state for fact finding. Geerlings said the new legislation will not have an impact on the current contract. “I don’t see it having any impact,” he said. “I think the legislation has bigger and broader implications and won’t impact our current negotiations one way or the other because right now all our teachers are in the union.” State formula for replacing lost tax revenue has commissioners steaming by Doug VanderLaan Editor Fears of costly repercussions from a runaway lame duck state Legislature had Barry County commissioners scrambling at their official meeting Tuesday for a way to derail a package of bills designed to repeal Michigan’s personal property tax at the expense of Barry County. “This is on the table, it could be passed, and Barry County stands to lose $314,000,” Commissioner Chair Craig Stolsonburg said of the proposal that stands before a legislative session that was expected to adjourn for the year after final passage of Right to Work legislation Tuesday. If, in its final days of the current session, the Legislature does not address the personal property tax elimination proposal, the bills will move into the next legislative session which begins with newly elected representatives Jan. 9. “I don’t think that anyone disagrees that the personal property tax is a bad tax,” County Administrator Michael Brown told commissioners. “By doing away with it, it will move tides higher. The hope was that rising tides would float all boats, but this won’t float the county’s boat.” That’s because of a complicated formula embedded in the proposed legislation that would allow nearly 70 percent of Michigan counties to be reimbursed by the state for up to 80 percent of the revenue lost from no longer collecting the personal property tax. Unfortunately, under the formula, Barry County would not qualify. According to Brown’s explanation, properties valued at less than $40,000 would not pay the personal property tax, a revenue loss to the county of $314,000. If, according to the proposed legislation’s formula, the group of properties valued at less than $40,000 makes up less than 2 1/2 percent of a county’s general fund budget, the county is ineligible for the 80 percent reimbursement from the state. “Of our $14 million general fund budget, these properties account for 2.2 percent of our budget,” pointed out Brown, who also suggested the proposed legislation carries with it an “essential service fee” that could allow a $75,000 recoup. “It’s calculated by how much we spend on police, fire and ambulance expense,” said Brown. “You divide that into the general fund expense, and it allows Barry County to assess $75,000 in fees.” That didn’t satisfy county officials who protested not only the size of the revenue loss, but also the implications that would result from trying to collect the essential service fee. “The Michigan Association of Counties is concerned with the complexity, especially the service fee,” said Brown. “How would you assess it? Who would be eligible to levy this service fee and against whom?” “Plus, think of the administrative fees on our part to do it,” echoed Commissioner Dan Parker. Stolsonburg added the complication of residents questioning their assessed property values, especially at the baseline $40,000 mark. “Think of the appeals from people questioning if their property is worth $40,000,” pictured Stolsonburg. “The assessor will say it’s worth $40,000 and the resident will say, ‘You’re only saying that so you can raise more tax.’” By a 7-1 vote — with Commissioner Ben Geiger dissenting — and under a presumption that the Legislature would remain in session for the rest of the week, the board directed Stolsonburg to send a letter of concern to the Legislature along with a similar resolution passed months ago stating the county board’s opposition to replacement funding following a repeal of the personal property tax. “Because this is so important to local jurisdictions, it would behoove the governor and the lieutenant governor to put this into the next legislative session,” said Commissioner Jeff VanNortwick in a suggestion for the letter’s content. “This has too much gravity to be done in the next 72 hours.” In other business, commissioners: • Received the 2011 medical examiner’s annual report from Dr. Philip Croft. Croft, based at Sparrow Forensic Pathology in Lansing, serves as medical examiner for nine counties, and presented a comparative report of Barry County’s standing amongst the other eight. Croft pointed out that Barry County is one of few in the state to be accredited by the National Association of Medical Examiners. Parker questioned Barry County’s 21.2 percent of deaths reported to the medical examiner, next-to-the-lowest of the nine counties covered by Croft’s office. Croft responded that some incidents were likely referred to larger hospitals for more in-depth treatment where eventual death may have occurred. Also, the vast majority of local deaths are attended by personal physicians and are not reported to the medical examiner. Croft had high praise for Pennock Hospital, which, unlike many institutions in other counties, does not implement its own procedures in death examinations and certifications. “I’m very pleased with how Barry County works with our office,” summed up Croft. “Overall, Barry County is in the best position [of cohort counties[.” • Approved the $18,427 purchase of recording equipment for the hearing room of the courts and law building. • Approved the co-authorization with the Judicial Council for the security committee to create and enforce security policies for the courts and buildings housing the courts. • Approved a Farmland and Open Space Preservation request from Randy and Shawn Durkee of Carlton Township. • Approved a 2012 Michigan Blight Elimination application to the State of Michigan for assistance in removal of blighted and abandoned homes and commercial businesses in the county. • Approved a quote for workers’ compensation excess insurance coverage with a retention amount of $500,000 from Midwest and a one-year renewal with Eagle Claims Management to provide third-party administrative and claims management services in the amount of $44,263. • Approved claims in the amount of $124,806, pre-paid invoices in the amount of $2,751,699, and commissioners payroll in the amount of $7,623. • Authorized Barry County Transit to apply for state and federal grants for the 2014 fiscal year and named Joseph A. Bleam as the official agent to provide needed information to the state. • Approved a change of name for the Animal Control/Shelter Advisory Board to the Animal Shelter Advisory Board and removal of Marcie Tepper and Rebecca Neal from the board due to non-attendance of meetings. • Honored departing commissioners Robert Houtman, Joe Lyons, Parker, VanNortwick, Donald Nevins, and departing prosecutor Tom Evans (see related story). Warm Up to our Great Loan Rate! 1 Year at APR* 1% New reasons come with changing seasons... with this great rate, why wait? 77573158 �Page 4 — Thursday, December 13, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Leadership skills are more than miracles Santa visits Hastings Kiwanis Club meeting For several weeks now, Sheriff Dar Leaf and his department have drawn attention for their handling of an investigation into animal cruelty and abandonment charges brought against a member of the Barry County Animal Shelter Advisory Board who is also a special deputy advisor to the sheriff. The investigation began when Marcie Tepper’s Middleville home fell into foreclosure and the new owner found levels of dog feces on the floors, a dog carcass, a sick little dog running around the empty house, and bags of dead dogs on the property along with five live goats. Rather than turn the investigation over to the Michigan State Police or to seek advice with the Barry County Prosecutor’s office, Leaf decided his department could run the investigation with seemingly little or no concern whether there could be the appearance of impropriety or any potential of a possible conflict of interest. Given that Leaf and county commissioners have argued for months over shelter operations, this became the last straw for commissioners and they wanted answers. The sheriff’s decision to run the investigation turned out to be just the beginning of a list of bad decisions on his part. Last week, my wife Patti and I attended the Thornapple Arts Council’s production of “Miracle on 34th Street.” The play is based on the 1947 Christmas film that took place between Thanksgiving and Christmas Day in New York City, focusing on the problems that a Macy’s department store Santa Claus got into when he claimed to be the real Santa. The story is filled with life lessons that could serve Leaf as a politician and as an administrator. The biggest comes when Kris Kringle is accused of not actually being Santa Claus, and his attorney, Fred Gailey, asks for a formal hearing before Judge Henry X. Harper of the New York Supreme Court. Judge Harper doesn’t seem very concerned about the issue because kids don’t vote, but his political operative, Charlie Halloran, reminds him that parents do. Leaf, like Judge Harper, misjudged the importance of people’s concerns for animals when readers learned about the animals’ fate at Tepper’s residence. That’s no different than Judge Harper miscalculating the importance of Santa to every one — children who believe in the man and adults who believe in the magic that the story can bring. Judge Harper puts himself into an awkward position because his grandchildren and even his wife turn against him for putting Santa Claus on trial for lunacy. During the hearing, District Attorney Thomas Mara gets Kringle to admit that he is, in fact, Santa Claus and then Mara rests his case, believing he has proven his point. But Defense Attorney Gaily then stuns the court by asserting that Mr. Kringle is, in fact, the real Santa Claus and will prove his case without a shadow of doubt. During a recess, Judge Harper is taken into his chambers by his political advisor, Halloran, who pleads with him to get rid of the case because it will be disastrous for the judge’s upcoming re-election. At first glance, the Judge didn’t see the seriousness but, after some discussion about the possible implications, he directs Gailey to prove that Kringle is the one and only Santa Claus. So Gailey, with the help of the U.S. Postal System, manages to prove without any doubt that he is, in fact, Santa Claus. The play ends as you might imagine, when Santa is released from the courtroom just in time on Christmas Eve to The man in red makes a visit to the Hastings Kiwanis Club meeting Dec. 12. Here, Logan Rohe pauses before telling Santa his Christmas wishes. Club members brought their children and grandchildren to meet the Jolly Old Elf. Did you see? Eagle eye Tery Holly of Lake Odessa took this photo Nov. 29 of a bald eagle soaring over Jordan Lake near the north channels. We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@jadgraphics.com. Please include information such as where and when the photo was taken, who took the photo, and other relevant or anecdotal information. Do you know? Lion hearts What do you Do you recognize any of these Lions Club members? Do you know when or where the photo was taken? Do you have any idea why or for whom they were collecting food? The wrapped buckets contain items such as Quaker Oats, Hekman’s Saltines, Michigan potatoes (from the Gordon Schlegel farm in Remus), Florida oranges and grapefruit, Armour lard, Jell-O and even cans of plum pudding. (Notice the man just right of center holding a chicken.) What can you tell us about this photo? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event to reunite the photos with their original clippings or identify photos that may never have been used. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@jadgraphics.com; or call 269-945-9554. Last week’s photo of six men gathered behind a table for what could be a check presentation drew several responses. No reference to the original photo or confirmation of the names of the men could be found in the Banner’s archives. Readers suggested that the photo may have been at the former Presbyterian church. All agreed that the man third from left is Howard Frost, then president of Hastings Manufacturing Company. Others were possibly identified as (from left) Barney Drum, union president at E.W. Bliss; unknown; Frost; unknown; Don Siegel, officer at Hastings Manufacturing Company; and Robert Wilcox, union president at Hastings Manufacturing. Correction: In the ‘Amazing Grain’ photo, Harold Lehman should have been identified as the son of Ronald Lehman. Harold said he believed the photo was taken at the Farm Bureau Elevator in Woodland. bring toys to kids around the world. So, how does the play fit the local story? Leaf could have saved himself and his department from the appearance of a conflict of interest if he would have taken the time to sit down with the county prosecutor and local State Police troopers asking for their help with the investigation. Instead, he ignored the potential and put his office and the entire department in a risky position when he sent his officers to conduct the investigation. It was because of Leaf’s relationship with Marcie Tepper that county commissioners and the county Animal Shelter Advisory Board called for the sheriff to turn the investigation over to a third party. Yet, Leaf felt that his department could run the investigation without any problem, telling them, “the level of the charges and Tepper’s role as a volunteer — not a full-time employee — precludes any suggested involvement by the state police.” Leaf went on to say, “It’s over, this was just a misdemeanor.” Was he implying, like Judge Harper in the play, that it wasn’t a serious issue because it was just about a few animals? Or, was it because his department had something to hide? Leaf’s flippant attitude set the stage at a recent county board meeting where Commissioner Howard, “Hoot” Gibson suggested the process was nothing more than a “witch hunt,” supporting the sheriff rather than supporting his fellow commissioners in trying to get to the bottom of the issue. The case has little to do with Tepper’s employment status — it is about the abuse of animals and should have been taken seriously by all officials. For months now, the sheriff and county commissioners have been at odds over budgets and operations of the animal shelter which recently ended when commissioners took the responsibility for oversight of the animal shelter and put it into the hands of a new shelter director. With a change in management and the help of an advisory committee, commissioners are betting the shelter will increase adoptions and promote a better place for the county’s animals. For some, maybe the entire story has been blown out of proportion, but to others, animal cruelty is a serious matter and needs to be dealt with so that taxpayers are given the assurance that their elected officials follow protocol. I don’t know the entire story about Marcie Tepper who lost her home and now faces animal cruelty and other possible charges — but there are agencies throughout the county that offer help to those in trouble, yet the individuals must reach out and ask for assistance for the system to work. Mahatma Gandhi once said about man’s responsibility as a society to care for their animals, “The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way in which its animals are treated. I hold that the more helpless a creature, the more entitled it is to protection by man from the cruelty of man.” As we look back, I’m sure many will come to the conclusion that mistakes were made. Yet, it’s imperative that we learn from our mistakes so we don’t repeat them in the future. I suggest that Sheriff Leaf put the “Miracle on 34 Street” on his holiday movie list — it might give him some valuable administrative lessons in leadership, realizing that good leadership skills don’t come from miracles. Fred Jacobs, vice president, J-Ad Graphics think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the questions posed each week by accessing our website www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. Last week’s question: Congressional lawmakers adjourn for the holiday break next week with crucial revenue and spending issues still unresolved. Would you be willing to pay more taxes to avoid going over the ‘fiscal cliff?’ 20% 80% Yes No For this week: The gray wolf population has reached sufficient population levels that state lawmakers are considering a hunting season — despite protests of tribes that have a special tie to the animal. Should the wolf be a game species? q q YES NO �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, December 13, 2012 — Page 5 Sheriff’s department causes its own collateral damage IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV Protest coming from lame ducks To the editor: In my opinion, we sure have some lame duck county commissioner crybabies who were voted out of office by the voters. They are so hurt and disgruntled that they are willing to make a stink and to be tax-and-spend liberals by wasting taxpayer money for no good reason other than to be political. The taxpayers don’t have the money to spend, we don’t have deep packets. Be frugal with our money. The forensic audit could be done — or could have been done — by the state Department of Agriculture or the federal Drug Enforcement Agency. Seeing that the Department of Agriculture licenses the animal shelter, they could have done it for free — also all of these agencies would have done it for free if the commisioners had requested it. Then, if they found something, do a forensic audit. I am tired of my money being wasted. So long to the tax-and-spend liberal lame ducks. Good riddance (not Dan Parker). Elden Shellenbarger Hastings Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Rick Snyder, Republican, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400. State Senator Rick Jones, Republican, 24th District (Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties). Michigan State Senate, State Capitol, Farnum Building Room 915, 125 West Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. Send mail to P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI, 48909. Phone: (517) 373-3447. E-mail: senrjones@senate.michigan.gov State Representative Mike Callton, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, MI 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: mikecallton@house.mi.gov U.S. Congress Justin Amash, Republican, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 1714 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2255144. District office: Room 166, Federal Building, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Carl Levin, Democrat, Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-6221. District office: 110 Michigan Ave., Federal Building, Room 134, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 456-2531. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. GET MORE LOCAL NEWS! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. To the editor: “They don’t understand the collateral damage they cause,” (Banner, Dec. 6). Did I read that right and was that spoken by Sheriff Dar Leaf? I think it is time to share with the community the “collateral damage” my children and I have suffered due to either lack of protocol, corruption or excuses involving Sheriff Leaf and Tom Evans, our current prosecutor. I can reassure the community of how well the internal investigation regarding my personal situation was conducted — as long as it overlooks missing reports, lost pictures and ignorance of the tenets of domestic violence at the sheriff’s department. Luckily, I was able to furnish the photos of all the investigation reports since I had obtained them under the Freedom of Information Act before the department misplaced them. The first incident report I did not receive when I submitted a FOIA request, and it disgusts me that it seems now to be lost forever since the department told me it had changed its filing system and it would take too many hours to locate that report. So that day in my history is off the record and gone forever due to Sheriff Leaf’s lack of protocol, corruption or excuses. Protocol is defined as “the established code or procedure or behavior in any group organization or situation.” As a mother who left abusive relationships, I have encountered several ongoing issues here with confusion of duties of the Barry County Sheriff’s Department which I blame on lack of protocol, corruption or excuses. This confusion has led to further abuses that I’ve had to endure over the past years. Within the past few months, I had a deputy come to my home due to a civil dispute on parenting time that my ex called in. When the deputies arrived, my injured child was awakened during the night and put in a patrol car to be returned to his father. I was arrested on a Friend of the Court warrant and placed in the patrol car behind him, handcuffed. My child’s injury made it impossible for him to bend his leg, but he was still put in the back seat of the Barry County Sheriff’s Department vehicle which was disgusting to watch. My younger child stayed in bed asleep since I had a sitter and was bailing out upon arrival. Back up to Dec. 31, 2006. My ex assaulted me, and the sheriffs department took photos in the hospital of my fractured elbow, a blood clot on my backside and severe facial bruising that was the result of the domestic violence. My ex told the deputies he assaulted me, and it is clearly on the police report as such, but he never saw the interior of a sheriff’s patrol car. The deputy in charge of the investigation said to me that he did not see fit to arrest him in the afternoon since the kids would witness the arrest of their father, and I was not in imminent harm since I was in the hospital. Really? Did justice elude me because of a lack of protocol, corruption or excuses? Upon completion of his internal investigation, Sheriff Leaf told my attorney that he could not answer for his deputy not making an arrest. Really? Our elected sheriff cannot answer for one of his own? Is that from lack of protocol, corruption or excuses? The deputy did tell me he was offended I would ask him why he never arrested my ex since he had requested a warrant through Prosecutor Evans’ office. Really? A warrant request for a “warrantless arrest policy” on domestic violence? I did personally go to Tom Evans’ office to ask why they never sought charges. I was informed his office denied all charges. Really? When the suspect did not deny the assault and the injuries he inflicted on me? Tom Evans has refused to answer me. Is that lack of protocol, corruption or excuses? Most recently, I discovered that my house had taken a shot through the kitchen window. I called into dispatch to have law enforcement try to find out if this was a case of odd circumstance, a warning shot or something worse. The sheriff’s department responded to the complaint and the deputy took pictures for the report. The deputy said firearms was not his area of expertise but did convey that this would be handed to someone in the depart- ment who had more knowledge. I agreed, since I have been shot at in the past when fleeing to avoid a physical confrontation. In regard to that incident, the Barry County Sheriff’s Department was in charge of the investigation with the help of the Michigan State Police. There is no shortage of documentation from court hearings of the issue of my ex and his use of firearms. I am disgusted that with so much documented history of abuse that shots through a where children reside seems to be no priority to the sheriff’s department. Does it seem right that I have to worry about my children being victims of another shot finding its way through my home and hitting one of them? Why do I, again, witness a lack of protocol, corruption or excuses? We send our troops all over the world to fight for humanitarian rights, the right to live freely of abuse, punishment and torture. I am confused on how can I achieve this for my children and myself in Barry County. Is this due to lack of protocol, corruption or excuses? After all, the sheriff’s department has the time to respond to a civil complaint on parenting time, but have no time to investigate why my window has a hole in it — is that lack of protocol, corruption or excuses? There are good deputies in the Barry County Sheriff’s Department. I am sharing just a few minutes of my past to reassure county citizens of Sheriff Leaf’s ability to seek justice through his internal investigation into my circumstance. It left me with more questions, and I never got a sense of seriousness from him. I have voiced my concerns about the lack of protocol, corruption and inexcusable performance in the department and I have been harassed, followed and arrested. I am only one person, but how many more like me are out there? Doesn’t Sheriff Leaf understand the “collateral damage” that is caused from lack of protocol, corruption or excuses? Laura Christensen, Wayland Barry ISD program receives Binda Grant Laura Brandt, the autism spectrum disorder specialist at Barry Intermediate School District, wrote and received a grant for $525 to support the POWERteam (Peers Offering Wisdom Empathy and Respect) program at Star Elementary in Hastings. “This grant presents a great opportunity for the students I work with at Star Elementary,” said Brandt. “Receiving this grant lets us know that others understand and appreciate the importance of mentoring programs.” Brandt said the funds will be used toward the purchase of training and educational materials for the mentors, playground equipment, T-shirts for the mentors and the stu- dents in the program and periodic pizza lunches for the mentors. POWERteam, which is in its second year, exists to encourage positive peer social interactions between special-needs students and general education students, while increasing social awareness and acceptance within the school community for all students, regardless of their abilities or challenges, according to a press release from BISD Superintendent Jeff Jennette. Each semester, 12 fifth grade students are given the opportunity to apply for and participate in POWERteam. Chosen peer mentors attend four 30-minute lunch recess training CONTROLLER Thornapple Manor, Thornapple Manor, the Barry County Medical Care Facility, the Barry County Long Term Care Facility, is seeking a full-time Controller. Experience in Long-term care OPENINGS FORResponsibilities or within the HAS healthcare industry preferred. include financial statement preparation; budgeting; • Certified Nurse Assistants Medicare/Medicaid cost reports; year-end audit assistance; Part time and On-call functions. and a variety of administrative/recordkeeping • Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants Bachelor’s degree in accounting or business administration with a minimum of Full 5 years Time experience requested. Computer/spreadsheet proficiency is beneficial. We offer excellent wages, benefits, and working condiExcellent wage and benefit package. Salary commensurate tions. Applications can be completed Monday-Friday with experience. 8:30am-3:30pm in our business office, package or downloaded We offer a competitive wage and benefit in a team oriented environment. Interested candidates can fax their from our website at www.thornapplemanor.com resume, cover letter with salary history in confidence to Human No phone calls please. EOE Resources at (269) 948-0265, or can be mailed to: sessions. The trained peer mentors then interact in groups of two or three with a student with autism spectrum disorder during lunch recess. Monthly lunch meetings with peer mentors allow discussion of mentoring highs and lows, concerns and more, said Jennette. There are currently three students with autism in the program. Students are under adult supervision at all times, he added. The Binda Foundation along with the Barry, Branch and Calhoun ISDs, contribute to a consortium grant to help support programming in their districts. Call 269-945-9554 any time for Hastings Banner classified ads 77573148 2700 Nashville Rd * Hastings, MI 49058 Attn: Human Resources 06777226 A U C T I O N E E R i ng Auc ti on s m o —AUCTIONEERS— C KENDALL TOBIAS 77573144 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hastings 945-5016 VINCENT VERDUIN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Assisting Auctioneer NOTICE ✯ ✯ SHORT FAST ESTATE SATURDAY, DEC. 15TH AT 10:00 AM The Hastings Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Newsroom email: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising email: j-ads@choiceonemail.com John Jacobs President Frederic Jacobs Vice President Stephen Jacobs Secretary/Treasurer • NEWSROOM • Doug Vanderlaan (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Shari Carney Dave DeDecker Bonnie Mattson Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Jennie Yonker Chris Silverman Dan Buerge Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Barry County $40 per year in adjoining counties $45 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box B Hastings, MI 49058-0602 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, MI 49058 Check out www.auctionzip.com #23371 for more! Kendall Tobias, Auctioneer 1-269-945-5016 Canticle of Joy by Joseph M. Martin EMMANUEL CHOIR Mark Doster, Music Director Christmas Eve Emmanuel Episcopal Church 315 W. Center St. 24 December 2012 | 7:00 p.m. followed by … A Candlelight Communion Service 77573138 Brett Bremer Julie Makarewicz Fran Faverman Sandra Ponsetto • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • LOCATION: In Hastings at 328 S. Jefferson St. at the Thomas Jefferson Democratic Hall. DUE TO ABUNDANCE OF ITEMS MUST CLEAN OUT BUILDING Pr. of cast iron shoe forms; pr. of cast iron Victorian wall lamps, oil; marbles; picnic basket; sewing material; dollies, dress collars; Marilyn Monroe photo; quilted animals from log cabin quilt; Crabtree & Evelyn tin; antique basket; air brush equipment; sea shells; 6 lg. rolls of wrap. paper w/cutter; postcards and old greeting cards; red flora ottoman; tablecloth linens, 2 tables of all shapes/sizes doilies; Boy Scout handbook; deluxe TUCO picture puzzle; Charles & Diana spoon; Marvel Comics trading cards; 2 albums of baseball cards; 2 ledgers 1893-1894; Northwoods Bird Woman print; wool blanket; table lamps; leather desk tray w/lid; Royal 120 NT Cash Management System; old leather locking luggage piece; Boehmia Blue oil lamp w/shade; many styles of old cabinet handles, knobs, etc.; Santa Claus cotton gloves; Santa Claus suits, very nice; 2 Singer button holers in cases; 1948 oil lamp Model B table lamp, Washington Drop 1940-42, B 53 Clear Crystal; 1934 green crystal Aladdin Model A table lamp, Depression green w/nickel burner c.; Lincoln County Garden Club figure; picture art; death of J.F. Kennedy newspaper; birdhouse kit; sewing supplies, thread, needles; greeting cards from long ago; salt and pepper shakers. �Social News Page 6 — Thursday, December 13, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Worship Together… 77572927 Debora Elaine Bechtel Newborn Babies ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Rev. Ryan Wieland. Sundays - 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Service; Sunday School and Nursery available during both services (Summer Schedule - Adult Sunday School: 9 a.m., Worship & Children’s Programs 10 a.m.) Youth Group, Covenant Prayer, Choir, Chimes, Praise Band, Quilting Group, Community Breakfasts and more! Call the church office at (269) 721-8077 (M/W/F 9 a.m.-12 p.m.), e-mail office@mei.net or visit www.countrychapelumc.org <http://www.countrychapelumc.org/> for more information SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 . HASTINGS ASSEMBLY OF GOD 1674 S. State Rd., Hastings, MI 49058 Phone 269-945-2285. Sunday morning service times: 9 a.m. with nursery and preschool available and 11 a.m. with nursery, preschool and kids’ church available. CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Minister Collin Pinkston. Phone 269-945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 8:45 a.m. Traditional Worship; 10 a.m. Refreshments; 10:45 a.m. Contemporary Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Youth Pastor Eric Gillespie. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. New! Starting... Nov. 25... Worship Service 9:15 and Children’s Sunday School (ages 2 thru 5th grade). Worship Service: 10:45 a.m. & Children’s Junior Church (4 years through 4th grade). Junior and Senior High Youth Group 6:00 p.m., and several adult small group opportunities. Wednesday Mid-Week at 6:30 p.m.: Pioneer Club, 4 years through 5th grade. Adults: Marriage Enrichment Class, Women’s Prayer Group and a Men’s Bible Study. Thursday: Senior Adult (50+) Bible Study at 10 a.m. and lunch at Wendy’s, 11:30 a.m. Third Thursday Brunch at 9:30 a.m. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Sunday, Dec. 16 - Worship Service 8 and 10:45 a.m. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Dec. 16 - High School Youth Group 6-8 p.m.; Men & Women’s Alcoholics Anonymous 7 p.m. Dec. 17 - Adventurerers Bible Study 7 p.m.; Recovery Bible Study 7:30 p.m. Dec. 18 - Congregation Council Dinner Outing 6 p.m. Dec. 19 Wordwatchers Bible Study 10 a.m.; Advent Supper 6 p.m.; Advent Vespers 7 p.m. Dec. 20 - Middle School Caroling 4-6 p.m.; Adult Choir 7:15 p.m. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 945-2645, fax 269-945-2698. Pastor Amy Luckey. http://www.discovergrace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot.com. Friday - 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday - 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday 4 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Fiberglass Products Lauer Family Funeral Homes 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 1401 N. Broadway Hastings 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 Ilene Rogers Young Hilson to celebrate 85th birthday HASTINGS, MI - Debora Elaine Bechtel, age 52, of Hastings passed away Wednesday, December 5, 2012 at her residence. She was born October 25, 1960 in Battle Creek, the daughter of Douglas Edward and Carol Ann (Gutsue) Bacon. Debora attended Maple Valley High School, graduating in 1979. She went on to do some coursework through Davenport College. Debora married Donald Bechtel on May 23, 1991. Over the years Debora was employed by Hayes Green Beach Hospital, Pennock Hospital, Thornapple Manor and Maple Valley Schools holding positions that dealt with various aspects of Human Resources and management. Debora was a long time member of the Hastings Jaycees. She enjoyed spending sunny days at the water. Debora is survived by her husband, Don Bechtel; mother, Carol Raab of Nashville; father, Douglas (Wanda) Bacon of Battle Creek; daughter, Danielle Cook; son, Dustin Cook of Hastings; sisters, Cheryl (Nabil) Khoury of Oak Park, California, Rhonda Bacon, Tonia (Jay) Rideout and Karen (Bobby) Beatty of Battle Creek; grandchildren, Bradley and Zachary Hall, Jazlyn Jenson-Cook and Marley Cook, as well as many nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 12, 2013 at 1 p.m. at the Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, please visit our website at www.girrbach funeralhome.net to sign the online guest book or to leave a memory or message to the family. Clifford R. L’Esperance DELTON, MI - Clifford R. “Les” L’Esperance, of Delton, passed away December 6, 2012, at Borgess Gardens. Clifford was born February 1, 1923 in Muskegon, the son of the late Henry and Annie (Pointer) L’Esperance. Clifford worked for Post Cereal for 15 years, owned Quick T.V. in Kalamazoo. Clifford loved life and enjoyed fishing, ham/amateur radio and photography. He was a member of the American Legion Post. He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Emma (Hoplite) L’Esperance of Delton; his children, Richard (Sue) L’Esperance of Tampa, FL, Clifford (Leni) L’Esperance of Naples, FL, Nadine (Ken) Belonga of Plainwell, Jerry L’Esperance of Macon, GA and Ernie (Bev) L’Esperance of Bremen, IN; 13 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren; brother, Lionel L’Esperance of Naples, FL and sister, Margaret (John) Mills of Norfolk, VA. A funeral service was held at WilliamsGores Funeral Home in Delton, on Monday, December 10, 2012 with Pastor Jeff Worden officiating. Burial took place in Oak Hill Cemetery, Orangeville Township. Please visit www.williamsgoresfuneral. com to view Clifford’s online guest book, or to leave a condolence message for Clifford’s family. Ilene Rogers Young Hilson will be 85 on Dec. 26, 2012. She would enjoy hearing from old friends and former schoolmates at 770 River Rd., Hastings, MI 49058. Victoria Mae, born at Pennock Hospital on Nov. 23, 2012 at 1:10 a.m. to Sean and Leslie Gillum of Nashville. Weighing 7 lbs. 10 ozs. and 21 inches long. ***** Iley Ellen, born at Pennock Hospital on Nov. 26, 2012 at 7:59 a.m. to Elizabeth Lonergan and Zach George of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 14 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Zalia Lynn, born at Pennock Hospital on Nov. 23, 2012 at 2 p.m. to Sabrina Mackey of Saranac. Weighing 8 lbs. 15 ozs. and 19 1/2 inches long. Marriage Licenses Johnnie Ronald Stayton Jr., Hastings and Barbie Lynn Kubek, Hastings. Benjamin Russell Stowell, Lake Odessa and Ashley Rae Durham, Woodland. HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Pearl Stutz celebrating 90th birthday Pearl Stutz will be 90 years young on December 23, 2012. If you would like to celebrate with her, please send a card to 831 N. Hanover St., Hastings, MI 49058. Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads Thursday, Dec. 13 — Movie Memories gets ready for Christmas with “It Happened on Fifth Avenue” starring Don DeFore, 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 14 — preschool story time enjoys the stories of Jim Aylesworth, 10:30 Monday, Dec. 17 — computer class takes on “how to create digital photo movies,” 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 18 — toddler story time enjoys Christmas, 10:30 a.m.; young chess tutoring class, 4:30 to 5:30; genealogy club meets, 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 19 — teen advisory board meets, 3:45 to 4:45 p.m. Call the Hastings Public Library for more information, 269-945-4263. Ray L. Girrbach Owner/Director 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 • 269-945-3252 Serving Hastings, Barry County and Surrounding Communities for 45 years •Traditional and Cremation Services •Pre-Planning Services •Large Parking Lot - Handicap Accessible •Serving All Faiths Pre-arrangement Transfers Accepted • Family Owned and Operated www.girrbachfuneralhome.net Call any time for Hastings Banner ads 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, December 13, 2012 — Page 7 Create your own customized holiday cards & books! ‘The Nutcracker’ continues in Nashville this weekend Holiday greeting cards in full color with your special message! Great Holiday Gifts! This is the final weekend for “The Nutcracker” on stage in Nashville, presented by Step N' Time and The Revue. The show is directed and choreographed by Kim Rodriguez. Cast members hail from Hastings to Charlotte and Olivet to Lake Odessa. Great crowds enjoyed spectacular productions over the weekend, said Producer Bill Reynolds. Here, as an understudy, Rodriguez steps in as the maid/Sugar Plum Fairy this past weekend after Amy Fisher suffered an injury. Fisher is expected to take the stage this weekend. No matter who fills the role, Reynolds said the audience will be treated to a Christmas classic that brings the music of a Russian composer, a German writer and a French ballet instructor to the stage in Barry County. Shows are Friday and Saturday at 7 and Saturday and Sunday at 3 p.m. Tickets are on sale for reserved assigned seating; email therevue1@yahoo.com or call 517-749 1229. Main Street Theatre House is at 301 N. Main St., Nashville. • Flat Cards • Folded Cards • Calendar Cards BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY as low as 60 ¢ each by Gerald Stein by Gerald Stein Christmas time in Barry County is always a special time and season. As bridge players, have you finished your Christmas gift-giving for your favorite bridge partner, your bridge friends, or for yourself? Today’s column offers a few suggestions that might light up your friends’ eyes when they see the thoughtfulness that you have found for them in their bridge world. What better gift to get each and every month for the next twelve months than a subscription and membership to the American Contract Bridge League? For a mere $28.00, for new members, you will receive the monthly issue of the Bridge Bulletin for a full year. Chocked full of articles for the beginning bridge player, the advancing or intermediate bridge player, or the expert in your group, this gift will surely please your bridge friends. Leaving town for the winter? The Bridge Bulletin will follow you, and you will be able to easily find places to play bridge in your warmer winter climates. Order online by going to www.acbl.org and find the membership tab on the left side of the home page. Your friends will have their new welcome packets by Christmas if you order online today. A column of some time ago mentioned a bridge game that will make a great Christmas present for grandchildren or younger players in your life. Called Bidittle, this board game teaches younger players the fundamentals of bidding, trick taking, and the beginning of a lifetime of enjoyment in the bridge world. At $19.99, you can order this game online as well by going to the Bidittle website @ www.bidittle.com. The ages for this game range from 7-adults, and from 2-4 players, so you will be able to spend quality bridge time with one or several of your children or grandchildren. There is a reversible side for future advancement as the children progress through the basics of bridge playing. This is a great gift that you will enjoy as well. Looking for a complete set of 32 duplicate boards, 36 decks of cards, sets of movement cards, recap sheets, convention cards, traveling score cards, a copy of Duplicate Bridge by Alfred Sheinwold, and information on how to match point for your own home bridge club? A special offer from the online bridge supplier Baron Barclay will provide you a bridge game for up to 16 players at your home. A regular $200 value, this set can be ordered from www.baronbarclay.com for $149.00. This set makes a great gift for your friends or for yourself. Other bridge items at Baron Barclay include 20% discount on selected wooden bridge tables, chairs, and other bridge items. Books and software items abound in their catalog or in their online store. Of real value, if you are looking for a solid software program, take a look at “Bridge Baron 23,” a newly-released update of a software program for playing bridge on your computer. A sample of “Bridge Baron 23” can be downloaded prior to purchasing for your inspection. Want to look at another free software package? Go back to www.acbl.org and look at the free downloads for beginning bridge players. This will give you a good idea of the wonderful bridge programs that are available on your computer or on your phones. Not to be missed are also the book selections on Baron Barclay. They extend from bridge texts for students to mysteries, advanced play, and so much more. Request one of their catalogs be sent to you when you go online. Today’s final Christmas suggestion for yourself or your partner in the event that you will be in Barry County for the winter in 2013: how about taking a bridge class in February through the Institute for Learning in Retirement program through Kellogg Community College? A fourweek class on the four February Monday mornings will focus on “The Eight Most Commonly Used Conventions You Should Know.” Requested by the students in the advanced Defense in the 21st Century class, this class will include a review or perhaps a new introduction for some into the eight most popular bridge conventions used in the bridge world. Learning new tricks will be a great present to you or to others at this Christmas time. Contact the office of the Institute for Learning in Retirement in Battle Creek for information regarding times and fees for this class. Most importantly, students wanted lots of practice as well as instruction on such conventions as Stayman, Take Out Doubles, Weak Two Bids, Transfers and more. With Christmas only a few weeks away, I hope that you will be able to find just the right gifts for your bridge playing friends. Merry Christmas to all Barry County bridge players. ***** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: http://betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. Photo Books Tell a story... create lasting memories! • • • • Holiday Books Wedding Memories Cook Books Family Albums prices starting at 13 $ Hard Bound - Soft Bound - Spiral Bound Just in time for the holidays. Capture those memories for years of enjoyment. All customized by you or with the help of our professional staff 1351 N.Broadway (M-43) Hastings 269.945.9105 OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:30 - 5:30 SAT. DEC. 15 & 22 8:30 - 1:00 each �Page 8 — Thursday, December 13, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of by Elaine Garlock Tonight is meeting time for the Lake Odessa Area Historical Society. This is show and tell night. Guests and members should bring a Christmas or other item with a story behind it. First those attending will have a shared meal. The soup suppers, respite care and child care return to Fellowship Hall this week at Central United Methodist Church following a one-week recess due to the use of the two buildings for the Christmas basket project of Lakewood Community Services. With a smaller number of applicants this year, the basket project was finished each day in record time. Possible reasons are the closing of the mobile home park at Carlton Center and the use of Manna’s Market by many clients year round. Also the project was carried out a week earlier than usual. The Sunfield SPYs as always were there early and had their boxes out of the building by the time any of the others arrived to start. The Raynor family, the Brighton family and other regulars were on hand. New this year, a group from church recruited by Neil DeJongh, the Lakewood girls’ basketball team and coach Denny Frost made a big difference. The girls made multiple trips and also helped to get the building back in order. A fresh snow added to hazards the delivery people often encounter, such as cluttered stairs to second floor apartments, barking dogs guarding houses, alert and excited children whose parents are sleeping. This year a bag of potatoes went to each recipient. This and other foods came from Feed America (formerly Second Harvest). Gifts for all children registered came from local churches and from funds donated. Socks, mittens and caps also went to each child. Workers who did sorting and wrapping like were from several churches in the Lakewood district. Many drivers used their GPS devices to find the houses. There were far less use of maps and telephone books. On the second weekend of each month the VFW has its flea market on Fridays and Saturdays. Lunch is available. Booths are from rent. There is a meeting for amputees at the Ionia Commission on Aging on Hudson Street on the first Monday of every month. Saturday, Dec. 15, the Sebewa Center United Methodist Church will hold its monthly dinner with ham and scalloped potatoes from 5 to 7 p.m. The free movie at the Ionia Theater Dec. 20 will be entitled “The Glory of Christmas,” This is sponsored by the Ionia County Historical Society, which is also hosting an open house at the Blanchard House on East Main Street Dec. 16 from 1 to 4 p.m. Judy Johnson and Virginia Yonkers hosted their Johnson Street neighbors for a morning coffee in honor of John and Terri Catt, who were leaving the next day for their winter quarters in a warmer climate. The Rev. Ward Pierce, who died last week, had been the pastor of Lakewood United Methodist Church for 16 years before he went to Mendon. Help older parents avoid financial scams Here’s a disturbing statistic: One out of every five Americans over the age of 65 has been victimized by a financial scheme, according to the Investor Protection Trust, a nonprofit organization devoted to investor education. If your parents are in this age group, should you be concerned? And can you help them avoid being “scammed” so that they maintain control over their finances? The answer to the first question is “yes” — you should be concerned. Of course, as the numbers above show, most aging Americans are not being swindled, which suggests they can take care of themselves quite well. Still, it’s no secret that many fraud schemes target seniors because of their concentrated wealth and in many cases, trusting nature. And as much as you’d like to think otherwise, your parents could be susceptible to rip-off artists. Fortunately, in regard to the second question above, you can indeed take steps to help prevent your parents from being fleeced. Here are a few suggestions: • Observe their behavior. If you live close to your parents, listen closely to any new friends, investment deals or sweepstakes they mention during your normal interactions.. If you’re in a different city, try to stay abreast of your parents’ behavior by communicating with them frequently and by checking in with other family members or friends who have occasion to see your parents. • Urge them to watch out for suspicious e- Call 269-945-9554 any time for Hastings Banner classified ads 77573085 mails. You’ve probably seen them — the emails offering to “reward” you with huge amounts of money if you will only contact such-and-such from a distant country and then put up a “small” sum to initiate some illdefined transaction. You probably “spam” these without a moment’s thought — and you should urge your parents to do the same. Remind them that any offer that sounds “too good to be true” is, without question, neither “good” nor “true.” • Encourage them to further their financial education. Law enforcement agencies, health care professionals and reputable financial services providers all offer personal financial management programs designed specifically for seniors. Look for these types of programs in your area, encourage your parents to attend — and even consider going with them. • Become familiar with their financial situation. Having a serious discussion with your parents about their finances may not be easy — but it’s important. The more you know about their investments, retirement accounts and estate plans, the better prepared you’ll be to respond helpfully if they mention an action they’re considering taking that, to you, just doesn’t sound appropriate. • Suggest professional help. If your parents are already working with a qualified financial professional, they’re probably less likely to be victimized by fraud than if they were managing their finances on their own. And it’s a good idea for you to know their financial advisor, and for him or her to know you, as you may well be involved in your parents’ legacy planning. But if your parents don’t already have a financial advisor, you may want to recommend one to them, particularly if it’s someone you already know and trust. It’s entirely possible that your parents won’t need any assistance in avoiding financial scams. But, just in case, be prepared to act on the above suggestions. Your intervention could help preserve your parent’s financial independence. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 32.96 -.53 AT&T 34.15 +.23 BP PLC 41.17 +.17 CMS Energy Corp 24.58 +.20 Coca-Cola Co 37.86 +.71 Eaton 52.45 +1.17 Family Dollar Stores 64.68 -6.03 Fifth Third Bancorp 14.53 +.39 Flowserve CP 142.92 +2.02 Ford Motor Co. 11.49 +.18 General Mills 41.39 +.76 General Motors 25.45 +.04 Intel Corp. 20.65 +.68 Kellogg Co. 56.66 +1.43 McDonald’s Corp 89.62 +2.42 Pfizer Inc. 25.64 +.48 Perrigo Co. 105.42 +.42 Ralcorp 89.32 -.13 Sears Holding 43.50 +.62 Spartan Motors 4.93 -.03 Spartan Stores 15.43 -.01 Stryker 55.81 +1.46 TCF Financial 11.72 -.08 Walmart Stores 70.89 +1.23 Gold $1,710.00 +$13.05 Silver $32.96 +.03 Dow Jones Average 13,248 +297 Volume on NYSE 640M 9M 77573091 Be the hostess with the cupcakes 77573089 77573087 77573081 77573079 EDWARD JONES 77573083 The Great Twinkie Debate, launched by the Banner’s public opinion question in the Nov. 29 edition, drew the attention of one reader who sent a response by mail along with copies of two articles published in the Wall Street Journal. Sentiments about Hostess Brands Inc. suspending its production of Twinkies and other iconic bakery goods because of management and labor union disagreements have run high and, according to the Journal’s Nov. 24 edition, sparked a run on Hostess bakery outlets from Illinois to Wyoming. The Banner, by the way, due to a processing error, neglected to publish the results of its question to readers asking if they would regret losing the Twinke as a piece of cultural history. Among voters, 55 percent gave a “yes” response and 45 percent said “no.” Fret not, says Tiffany MacIsaac, a pastry chef in Washington, D.C., who gave the Journal her own “Hostess Cupcake 2.0” recipe. Though she told Beth Kracklauer of the Journal, that the treat is now an “immovable fixture on her menu,” she also confesses that “normally, the last thing I want is dessert, but I will totally eat that cupcake.” Here is a recipe, compliments of MacIsaac and the Journal, of the Twinkies cousin: Hostess Cupcake 2.0 White chocolate mousse: 2 large egg yolks 1 large egg 1 Tbs. granulated sugar 7 oz. white chocolate, melted GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. 1/2 C. heavy cream Devil’s food cake: 3 C. granulated sugar 2 1/4 C. all-purpose flour 1 Tbs. baking soda 1 1/2 tsp. baking powder 1/2 tsp. kosher salt 1 1/2 C. cocoa powder 4 large eggs 2 large egg yolks 1 1/2 C. buttermilk 1 1/2 C. strong brewed coffee, warm 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract 1 1/2 Tbs. butter, melted Chocolate glaze: 1/2 C. heavy cream 7 oz. bittersweet chocolate, chopped 1 1/2 tsp. butter Pinch salt 3 Tbs. white chocolate, melted To make mousse, place yolks, eggs and sugar in a bowl over a double boiler and whisk until warm to the touch, about 2 minutes. Remove from double boiler and whisk until thick, about 2 minutes. Drizzle melted chocolate into egg mixture, whisking vigorously until incorporated. In a separate bowl, whisk cream to stiff peaks. Fold into egg/chocolate mixture and place in a piping bag fitted with a large tip. Refrigerate until needed. To make cupcakes, preheat oven to 325 degrees. Sift sugar, flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt and cocoa into a bowl. In another bowl, whisk together eggs, yolks, buttermilk, coffee and vanilla. Slowly add wet ingredients to dry ingredients, whisking. Add butter and stir until just combined. Spray a 12-cup nonstick cupcake pan with cooking spray. Fill each cup halfway with batter. Bake until cooked through, 18 to 20 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to cool to room temperature before filling and glazing. To make glaze, in a small pot, bring cream to a simmer. Place bittersweet chocolate, butter and salt in a bowl. Pour simmering cream into the bowl and let sit 1 minute. Whisk until smooth. Working with one at a time, remove cupcakes from pan. Insert the piping tip into the top center of each cupcake and pipe in white chocolate until full. Wipe any excess off top of cupcake. Dip tops of cupcakes in glaze. Shake upside down to remove excess. Allow glaze to set 10 minutes. Place warm white chocolate in a piping bag with a narrow tip and pipe a line of loops across top of each cupcake. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, December 13, 2012 — Page 9 Christmas card traditions, part 2 The following was taken from an article in the Dec. 24, 1952, Sun and News as part of a Christmas card-themed advertising section. Christmas superstitions born lucky There is a Scottish belief that to be born on Christmas is to have the power to see spirits and even to command them. Sir Walter Scott said that the Spaniards imputed the haggard and downcast looks of Phillip II to the terrible visions he was able to see because he was born on Christmas. French peasants believed that babies born on Christmas have the gift of prophecy. In the Vosges [mountains in France] a baby born on Christmas Eve possesses the “gift of gab,” whereas the Christmas Day baby has less tongue and better logic. Daughters born on Dec. 25 will be wise, witty and virtuous. In Silesia a baby born on Christmas will become either a lawyer or a thief. English mothers used to take sick babies to the door Christmas Eve at midnight. Mary was expected to pass with the Christ Child. If the baby recovered, it was a sign that it had been touched by the Christ Child with healing fingers, and if it died, the Christ Child had called the baby to be His playmate in heaven. In middle Europe, it is said that a baby born at sermon time Christmas Eve portends that someone in the house will die within the year. A variation of this belief states that a certain group of Christmas angels is sent to earth commissioned to awaken a newborn infant from its first sleep and carry it to heaven. There it was honored by being placed in the choir of the Christ Child. Buy Christmas Seals “The unwavering support of Michigan people in the sale of Christmas Seals is Michigan’s best assurance of continued progress against tuberculosis, a deadly disease,” the Michigan Tuberculosis Association said. “Every family – every contribution – will help.” So buy seals now as your part in the fight against TB. A Christmas legend The spoons were moved The Tyrols were resplendent with moonlight, and unnumbered stars scintillated in their cold serenity. Inside the home of Andreas, the storekeeper, preparations were being made for midnight Mass, for it was Christmas Eve. “May I put my spoon in first?” asked Josef, “I am the oldest.” “You must wait until Grandmother places hers, since she is the most honored by years,” cautioned Mother. “After her, we will each place our spoons.” A large bowl of milk had been set on the little carved table. A treasured picture of the Holy Family rested against the wall so that the beam of a candle played full upon it. Now each member of the family chose his spoon to place around the rim of the bowl of milk. First Grandmother, then Mother and Father, for they were the same age; then Josef, and Gertrud, and Lizbet, and Hermann; lastly, mother chose a tiny spoon for baby Barbara, but it had to be stilted upon a small box. “We are all ready. Let us get into our warm clothes so that we may go to the church and thank our loving Father for sending the Christ Child to Earth – even as each one of us was brought from another world of hopefulness,” said Mother, and continued, “Whose spoon will be moved tonight? Only waiting will tell.” As the family knelt in the pew of the St. Nikolaus Kirche, Josef’s eyes often rested on the painting of the Holy Family which hung upon the wall above the high gilded altar. Josef that he could see a bowl of milk and a row of spoons but it was only the books and the chalice of the holy priest. He could hardly wait until mass was over so that he might rush home faster than the others to see whether his spoon had been moved. He knew that the milk had been placed as a welcome to the Holy Family. He knew that Mother Mary might feed the Baby Infant, and if so, the spoon she used would be moved. The one whose spoon was used would have great luck for the year. Josef desired that it would be his. As the strains of the organ dismissed the group of pious mountaineers, Josef rushed on ahead of the family. What did he see when he looked in the window of his home? Baby Barbara’s spoon was not there now. And the grandmother’s spoon was in the milk with the handle resting on the rim of the bowl. Who can say how the spoons became changed? General Admonitions In the Netherlands, they say to take a fir stick, thrust it into the fire and let it burn partially and put it under the bed. This serves as lightning insurance. In Ireland, it is believed that the gates of Paradise are always open on Christmas Eve. Dying then one would not enter Purgatory. In Scandinavia some families place all their shoes together, since this will cause them to live in harmony throughout the year. In many places, it is believed that nothing made of leather at Christmas will be durable, and in Hertfordshire wearing new shoes on Christmas is very unlucky. In Lancashire, Worcestershire, and Gloucestershire, no one will give matches, fire, or light to be taken from the home on Christmas Day, believing trouble will arise. In Shropshire and other sections of Europe, ashes must never be thrown out on Christmas Day for fear they will be thrown into the Saviour’s face. City of Hastings NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR AN APPLICATION FOR GRANT FUNDS TO THE MSHDA HOUSING RESOURCE FUND The Hastings City Council will conduct a public hearing as part of the regularly scheduled meeting on Wednesday, December 26, 2012 at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers on the second floor of City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings. The purpose of the public hearing is to gain citizen input prior to submission of a Housing Resource Fund grant application to the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) for targeted homeowner and rental rehabilitation funds. The application for funds will not exceed $600,000, and, if awarded, would be used for rehabilitation of owner-occupied, single family homes and tenant-occupied single and multi-family homes in the targeted triangle bordering State Street, Michigan Avenue, and East Green Street that will benefit low to moderate income residents. All activities of the grant project will be governed by terms of local program guidelines adopted by the City Council and approved by MSHDA. Further information is available by contacting the Community Development Director, John J. Hart at City Hall during normal business hours. Comments may be submitted in writing through December 26, 2012 at 5:00 PM or made in person at the public hearing. 77573162 Thomas E. Emery City Clerk There is a story current in Poland that Jacob’s ladder is brought back to Earth on Christmas Eve and that the angels scend and descend, bringing peace and goodwill to the Earth. Only saints have claimed to be able to see this ladder. Never launder a Christmas present before presenting it, since this takes out the good luck. The Gospel Story “And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. And all went to be taxed, everyone into his own city. “And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, into the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, to be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. And so it was that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her first-born son and wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. “And there were in the same country shep- herds abiding in their field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them; and they were sore afraid. And that angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day, in the city of David, a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you: Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on Earth peace, good will toward men. “And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even until Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph and the babe lying in a manger. And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. And all who had heard it wondered at those things NOTICE The minutes of the meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners held December 11, 2012, are available in the County Clerk’s Office at 220 W. State St., Hastings, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or www.barrycounty.org. Need wedding invitations? Stop by and check out the large selection at J-Ad Graphics Printing Plus North of Hastings on M-43 Highway in the grey barn NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Barry County Road Commission will hold a Public Hearing on its proposed 2013 Budget. The hearing will be held at the Commission Room located at 1725 West M-43 Highway, Hastings, Michigan at 3:30 P.M. on December 27, 2012. A copy of the proposed budget is available for inspection at the Road Commission office. 77573131 77572930 Fracking News Governor Snyder was at Kellogg Biological Station speaking two weeks ago on energy policy. He repeated the DEQ dis-information that fracking has been going on for 60 years in Michigan and used in 12,000 wells without a problem. Current horizontal hydraulic fracturing using the poisonous mixture of chemicals has only been used on 8 to 10 wells, thus far, in Michigan. This chemical fracking process developed by Halliburton is fairly new and is also exempt from any and all environmental laws and standards. In many other states where this poisonous process is being used many people and animals are sick from the air and water pollution caused by it. The US Geological Survey and EPA found fracking fluids in a deep aquifer under Pavilion, WY. Cornell University has documented livestock sickness in New York and Duke University has documented polluted water wells in Pennsylvania. These studies can be found online. So how can our DEQ continue Vol. 3 to mis-lead us? They get 1/6th of the profits out of these wells as “royalties”. People who lease their land are not told the same story as the stockholders of the drilling companies. In 2008 Cabot Energy reported on its Form 10-K, “Our business involves a variety of operating risks, including: well site blowouts; cratering and explosions; equipment failures; uncontrolled flows of natural gas, oil, or well fluids; fires; pollution and other environmental risks; and natural disasters.” Our Barry County public lands have been leased for drilling. MLAWD, a local group of concerned citizens has filed suit in Barry County Circuit Court to stop this from happening. MLAWD very much needs your financial help to keep this law suit going. Please help save our Barry State Game Area, Yankee Springs public lands, including these lakes: Fish Lake, Hall Lake, Payne Lake, Gun Lake. This damage is going to be permanent. MLAWD P.O. Box 335, Delton, MI 49046 Visit our website: www.milawdefense.org 77573134 The City will provide necessary reasonable aid and services upon five days notice to the Clerk of the City of Hastings, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. Telephone 269/945-2468 or TDD call relay services 800/649-3777. White Products Corporation, which today thrives as Barry County’s largest employer, is now known as Bradford White. The company placed this in a special Christmas card-type ad section of the Dec. 24, 1952, Sun and News. which were told them by the shepherds. “But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.” – Luke 2:1-19. “Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea, in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the East to Jerusalem, saying, Where is he who is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship Him. “When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born. And they said unto him, ‘In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written by the prophet; And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Judaea, art not the least among the princes of Judaea: for out of thee shall come a governor, who shall rule my people Israel.’ “Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men, inquired of them diligently what time the star appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem; and said, ‘Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him, also.’ “When they had heard the king, they departed: and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, until it came and stood over where the young child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. And when they were come onto the house, they saw the young child with Mary, his mother, and fell down and worshiped Him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto Him gifts; gold and frankincense and myrrh. “And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way. And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying, ‘Arise, and take the young child and his mother and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child, to destroy him.’ When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt.” – Matthew 2:1-114. (To be continued) �Page 10 — Thursday, December 13, 2012 — The Hastings Banner LEGAL NOTICES Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Cora Lee Greenburg, an unmarried woman, original mortgagor(s), to World Savings Bank, FSB, Mortgagee, dated July 30, 2002, and recorded on August 13, 2007 in instrument 1085507, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Forty-Five Thousand Five Hundred Two and 23/100 Dollars ($245,502.23). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on January 10, 2013. Said premises are situated in Township of Prairieville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 23, Supervisor's Plat of Long Point, as recorded in Liber 2 of Page 50, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 29, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #367213F04 77572639 (11-29)(12-20) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THIS FIRM IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. MORTGAGE SALE: Default having been made in the conditions of certain Mortgage made by JUDITH L. MILAN, a single woman, of 1270 Norway Avenue, Hastings, MI 49058, to THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, acting through Rural Development, United States Department of Agriculture, with its Office being located at 4300 Goodfellow Blvd., Building 105, FC215, St. Louis, MO, 63120, the Mortgagee, the Mortgage being dated May 8, 1996, and recorded May 10, 1996, in Liber 659, Page 988 in Barry County Records, and the borrower having assumed a mortgage between ARCHIE L. LEATHERMAN and THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, acting through Rural Development, United States Department of Agriculture, the Mortgage being dated May 3, 1993 in Liber 570, Page 865, Barry County Records, such Mortgage being given to secure Promissory Note payable to the Government, and by reason of such default the Mortgagee elects to declare the entire unpaid amount of such Mortgage due and payable forthwith, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due as of December 6, 2012, for principal, interest and other charges, the sum of SIXTY NINE THOUSAND, NINE HUNDRED EIGHTY-SIX AND 92/100 ($69,986.92) DOLLARS, and no proceedings having been instituted at law or equity to recover the debt now remaining secured by said Mortgage, or any part thereof, whereby the power of sale contained in said Mortgage has become operative; Now, Therefore, Notice is Hereby Given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in said Mortgage and in pursuance of the statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, the said Mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the premises therein described, or so much thereof as may be necessary, at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the east steps of the County Courthouse at 220 W. STATE STREET, in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, Michigan, that being the place of holding the Circuit Court in and for said County, on THURSDAY, JANUARY 17, 2013 at 1:00 p.m., local time, and said premises will be sold to pay the amount due as aforesaid on the Mortgage together with 6.75% interest, legal costs, attorneys' fees and also any taxes and insurance that said Mortgagee does pay on or prior to the date of said sale; which said premises described in said Mortgage are situated in the State of Michigan, Barry County and are described as: A parcel of land in the Southwest onequarter of Section 2, T3N, R9W, Described as: Beginning at the Southeast corner of Lot 70 of the Plat of Smith’s Lakeview Estate No. 1 as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 2 in County Records, and running thence North 00 degrees 08 minutes East 109.48’ to the Southernmost corner of Lot 65 of said Plat; thence North 49 degrees 51 minutes East 167.19’ to the Easternmost corner of said Lot 65; thence South 40 degrees 09 minutes East 100’; thence South 49 degrees 51 minutes West 219.31’; thence North 88 degrees 42 minutes 30 seconds West 24.90’ to the POB. Being a part of outlot L. Rights of the public and of any governmental unit in any part thereof taken used or deeded for street, road or highway purposes. Right of way in favor of Consumers Power Company, recorded in Liber 356, Page 354, and in Liber 356, on page 520. Right of way to Michigan Bell Telephone Company recorded in Liber 354, Page 329. Also described as: Lot 81, Amended Plat of Part of the Northwesterly Portion of Outlot E, Smith’s Lakeview Estates No. 1, according to the plat thereof recorded in Liber 6 of Plats, Page 46, Barry County Records. During the six (6) months immediately following the sale, the property may be redeemed unless the property is abandoned, in which case the redemption shall be thirty (30) days from the date of sale. According to MCL §600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. For further information with regard to this foreclosure, contact USDA - Rural Development, Centralized Servicing Center, Foreclosure Centralization Initiative, 4300 Goodfellow Blvd., Building 105, FC-215, St. Louis, MO, 63120, telephone (800) 349-5097 ext. 4500. Dated: December 6, 2012 UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, acting through the Farmers Home Administration (now Rural Development), United States Department of Agriculture, Mortgagee Michael I. Conlon (P43954) Running, Wise, Ford, P.L.C. 326 E. State Street, P.O. Box 686 Traverse City, MI 49685-0686 (1206)(12-27) 77572892 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Bonnie Clark a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Great Lakes Mortgage Company, LLC, Mortgagee, dated May 21, 2003, and recorded on August 15, 2003 in instrument 1111025, and modified by Affidavit or Order received by and recorded, and assigned to Fifth Third Mortgage Company as further evidenced in a Affidavit Of Lost Assignment dated September 18, 2012 recorded on September 26, 2012 in instrument 2012-004994, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy Thousand Three Hundred Fifteen and 10/100 Dollars ($70,315.10). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on December 20, 2012. Said premises are situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 44 of The Andrews Addition to the City, formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 22, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #402153F01 77572515 (11-22)(12-13) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Lena Thunder Aleman, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Charter One Bank, N.A., Mortgagee, dated May 5, 2005, and recorded on May 16, 2005 in instrument 1146513, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-Four Thousand One Hundred Eighty-Eight and 19/100 Dollars ($124,188.19). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on December 20, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Assyria, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel in the Northeast one quarter of Section 34, Town 1 North, Range 7 West described as: Commencing at the Southwest corner of the West one half of the East one half of the Northeast one quarter of said Section 34; thence East 440 feet 5 inches for place of beginning; thence North 495 feet 5 inches; thence East 219 feet 7 inches; thence South 495 feet 5 inches; thence West to place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 22, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #410702F01 77572521 (11-22)(12-13) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE SALE FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF A MORTGAGOR IS IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. DEFAULT having been made in the conditions of a certain Mortgage made on April 24, 2008, by Michael P. Scott and Laura A. Scott, husband and wife, as Mortgagor, given by them to MainStreet Savings Bank, FSB, whose address is 629 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, as Mortgagee, and recorded on May 12, 2008, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, in Instrument Number 20080512-0005083, which mortgage was assigned to Commercial Bank by an Assignment of Mortgage dated August 23, 2012, recorded on August 27, 2012, in Instrument Number 2012-003840, Barry County Records, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due and unpaid, as of the date of this Notice, the sum of One Hundred Eighty-Eight Thousand Four Hundred Forty-Five and 38/100 Dollars ($188,445.38); and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt or any part thereof secured by said Mortgage, and the power of sale in said Mortgage having become operative by reason of such default; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, January 3, 2012 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan, that being one of the places for holding the Circuit Court for Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder or bidders at public auction or venue for purposes of satisfying the amounts due and unpaid on said Mortgage, together with all allowable costs of sale and includable attorney fees, the lands and premises in said Mortgage mentioned and described as follows: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF CASTLETON, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN, DESCRIBED AS: The North 436 feet of the West 500 feet of the Northwest quarter of the Northwest quarter of Section 12, Town 3 North, Range 7 West, excepting therefrom that part deeded to the Michigan Department of State Highways, as recorded in Liber 250 of Deeds, Page 531, and as recorded in Liber 250 of Deeds, Page 575, Castleton Township. Commonly known as: 954 N. M-66 Hwy, Nashville, Michigan 49073 Parcel Number: 08-05012-000-010-00 The period within which the above premises may be redeemed shall expire six (6) months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with M.C.L.A. Sec. 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the time of such sale. Dated: November 23, 2012 FOSTER, SWIFT, COLLINS & SMITH, P.C. COMMERCIAL BANK Benjamin J. Price of Hastings, Michigan, Mortgagee Attorneys for Mortgagee 313 S. Washington Square Lansing, 77572699 MI 48933 (517) 371-8253 (11-29)(12-20) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Chadwick M. Castine, a single man and Sharon Sinkler, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated December 24, 2004, and recorded on December 29, 2004 in instrument 1139383, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Seven Thousand Four Hundred Sixteen and 75/100 Dollars ($107,416.75). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on January 3, 2013. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 22, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, described as: Commencing at the intersection of the centerline of Finkbeiner Road and the North line of said Section which is 748.40 feet North 88 degrees 53 minutes 45 seconds East for the North 1/4 corner of said Section; thence South 42 degrees 11 minutes 15 seconds East 410.00 feet along the centerline of Finkbeiner Road, thence South 47 degrees 48 minutes 45 seconds West 260.00 feet; thence North 42 degrees 11 minutes 15 seconds West 410.00 thence North 47 degrees 48 minutes 15 seconds East 260.00 feet to the place of beginning: Except that part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 22, Town 4 North, Range 10 described as: Commencing at the North 1/4 corner of said Section; West thence North 88 degrees 53 minutes 45 seconds East 748.40 feet along the North line of said Section thence South 42 degrees 11 minutes 15 seconds East 256.0 feet along the centerline of Finkbeiner Road to the place of beginning; thence continuing South 42 degrees 11 minutes 15 seconds East 154.0 feet along centerline; thence South 47 degrees 48 minutes 45 seconds West 260.00 feet; thence North 42 degrees 11 minutes 15 seconds West 154.0 feet; thence North 47 degrees 48 minutes 45 seconds East 260.0 feet to the place of beginning. Subject to highway right of way for highway purposes over that part lying Northeasterly of a line which is 33 feet Southwesterly from and parallel with the centerline of Finkbeiner Road The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: December 6, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #412369F01 77572750 (12-06)(12-27) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Douglas R. Baker and Melissa M. Baker, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Washington Mutual Bank, FA, Mortgagee, dated April 27, 2007, and recorded on May 3, 2007 in instrument 1180067, and modified by Affidavit or Order executed on March 1, 2012 and recorded on March 29, 2012 in instrument 201203290003158, and assigned by said Mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Forty-Nine Thousand Nine Hundred Forty-Nine and 58/100 Dollars ($249,949.58). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on December 27, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Commencing at the North 1/4 post of Section 13, Town 2 North, Range 10 West; thence South 89 degrees 44 minutes 37 seconds East, on the North line of said section, 1322.10 feet to the North 1/8 post of the Northeast 1/4 of said Section 13; thence continuing South 89 degrees 44 minutes 37 seconds East on said North line 774.23 feet to the point of beginning of the parcel of land herein described; thence continuing South 89 degrees 44 minutes 37 seconds East, on said North line, 547.87 feet to the Northeast corner of said section; thence South 00 degrees 32 minutes 18 seconds West, on the East line of said Northeast 1/4, 1322.90 feet, to the East and West 1/8 line of the Northeast 1/4; thence North 89 degrees 26 minutes 27 seconds West, on said East-West 1/8 line, 1325.07 feet to the North and South 1/8 line of the Northeast 1/4; thence North 00 degrees 40 minutes 03 seconds East, on said 1/8 line, 75.18 feet; thence North 87 degrees 15 minutes 02 seconds East, along an existing fence line and tree row, 811.90 feet to a point about 10 feet West of an existing fence line and tree row; thence North 01 degrees 03 minutes 05 seconds West, parallel with said fence line and tree row, 1208.45 feet to the point of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 29, 2012 For more information, please call: FC S (248) 593-1304 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #329971F02 77572767 (11-29)(12-20) IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT 248-502-1502. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Warren Searles, Charlotte Searles, husband and wife and Thomas J. Alvey and Christina N. Alvey, husband and wife, to Fifth Third Mortgage - MI, LLC, Mortgagee, dated August 10, 2005 and recorded October 20, 2005 in Instrument Number 1154900, and , Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Fifth Third Mortgage Company by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Nine Thousand Eighty-Five and 59/100 Dollars ($109,085.59) including interest at 6.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 PM on JANUARY 3, 2013. Said premises are located in the Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The land referred to is situated in the Township of Hope, County of Barry, State of Michigan, is described as follows:Parcel C: That part of the South 64 rods of the Southeast 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 27, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, described as: Commencing at the Southeast corner of said Section 27; thence North 88 degrees 59 minutes 06 seconds West on the South Section line 867.54 feet; thence North 0 degrees 31 minutes 30 seconds East 534.59 feet; thence North 3 degrees 03 minutes 18 seconds East 30.26 feet to the Place of Beginning of the parcel of land herein described; thence North 3 degrees 03 minutes 18 seconds East 491.48 feet; thence South 88 degrees 59 minutes 06 seconds East parallel to the South Section line 481.53 feet; thence South 1 degree 15 minutes 00 seconds West 491.40 feet; thence North 88 degrees 59 minutes 06 seconds West parallel to the South section line 498.34 feet to the Place of Beginning. Together with and subject to an easement for ingress, egress and public utilities over a 66 foot wide strip of land the centerline of said easement being described as commencing at the Southeast corner of said Section 27, thence North 88 degrees 59 minutes 06 seconds West 867.54 feet to the Point of Beginning of said easement; thence the centerline of said easement runs North 0 degrees 31 minutes 30 seconds East 534.59 feet; thence North 3 degrees 03 minutes 18 seconds East 250.56 feet to the Point of Beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: December 6, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C.. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007 File No. 12-510737 77572910 (12-06)(12-27) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Robert Frisbie and Terry Frisbie, Husband and Wife to HouseHold Finance Corporation III, Mortgagee, dated August 14, 2007 and recorded August 22, 2007 in Instrument # 20070822-0001177 Barry County Records, Michigan on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Two Hundred Ninety-Six Thousand Eight Hundred SixtyOne Dollars and Seventy-Seven Cents ($296,861.77) including interest 10.189% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on December 20, 2012 Said premises are situated in Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That part of the South one-half of the Northwest one-quarter, Section 23, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, Rutland Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Beginning at the center of said section; thence North 89 degrees 49 minutes 30 seconds West 400.0 feet along the South line of said Northwest one-quarter; thence North 00 degrees 00 minutes 01 seconds East 1310.04 feet; thence South 89 degrees 37 minutes 30 seconds East 400.0 feet along the North line of said South onehalf, Northwest one-quarter ; thence South 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West 1308.64 feet along the East line of said Northwest one-quarter to the Place of beginning. Subject to highway right of way for Yeckly Road. Commonly known as 2520 Yeckley Road, Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 11/22/2012 HouseHold Finance Corporation III Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File 06795984 No: 12-71233 (11-22)(12-13) AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTIFY US AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by ELMER L HOLBROOK, JR. , A SINGLE MAN, Mortgagors, to Bank of America NA, Mortgagee, dated the 12th day of June, 2006 and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, for The County of Barry and State of Michigan, on the 16th day of June, 2006 in Liber Instrument No. 1166074 of Barry County Records, page , said Mortgage having been assigned to Green Tree Servicing LLC on which mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, the sum of Ninety Three Thousand Two Hundred Eleven & 41/100 ($93,211.41), and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on the 3rd day of January, 2013 at 1:00 PM o’clock Local Time, said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI (that being the building where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held), of the premises described in said mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due, as aforesaid on said mortgage, with interest thereon at 7.125% per annum and all legal costs, charges, and expenses, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sum or sums which may be paid by the undersigned, necessary to protect its interest in the premises. Which said premises are described as follows: All that certain piece or parcel of land, including any and all structures, and homes, manufactured or otherwise, located thereon, situated in the Township of Castleton, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and described as follows, to wit: THE EAST 51 FEET OF LOT NUMBER 69 OF 0. A. PHILLIPS ADDITION TO THE VILLAGE OF NASHVILLE, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF, ALSO, A PARCEL OF LAND DESCRIBED AS: COMMENCING AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF LOT 69 OF 0. A. PHILLIPS ADDITION TO THE VILLAGE OF NASHVILLE FOR THE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE WEST 51 FEET; THENCE NORTH TO THE SOUTH BANK OF THE THORNAPPLE RIVER; THENCE EAST ALONG THE BANK OF THE THORNAPPLE RIVER TO A POINT NORTH OF THE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE SOUTH TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. ALSO, A PARCEL OF LAND DESCRIBED AS COMMENCING AT A POINT WHICH LIES 232 FEET EAST OF THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF LOT 67 OF 0. A. PHILLIPS ADDITION TO THE VILLAGE OF NASHVILLE FOR THE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE EAST 53 FEET; THENCE NORTH TO THE SOUTH BANK OF THE THORNAPPLE RIVER; THENCE WEST 53 FEET; THENCE SOUTH TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING During the six (6) months immediately following the sale, the property may be redeemed, except that in the event that the property is determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241a, the property may be redeemed during 30 days immediately following the sale. Pursuant to MCLA 600.3278, the mortgagor(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 12/6/2012 Green Tree Servicing LLC Mortgagee FABRIZIO & BROOK, P.C. Attorney for Green Tree Servicing LLC 888 W. Big Beaver, Suite 800 Troy, Ml 48084 248-362-2600 GTSD FNMA HolbrookElm 77572873 (12-06)(12-27) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, December 13, 2012 — Page 11 LEGAL NOTICES GERNER & KEARNS, PLLC, IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (216) 583-0660 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Ileta L. Campbell, A Single Woman, Martin O. Disbrow and Denise Ann Disbrow, Husband and Wife, to Fifth Third Bank, Mortgagee, dated February 27, 2008, and recorded on March 14, 2008, in Instrument Number 200803140002391, in BARRY County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty Six Thousand Nine Hundred Seventy Seven Dollars and Twenty Eight Cents ($86,977.28), including interest at 4.2% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the circuit court within BARRY County, Michigan at 1:00 PM o’clock, on Thursday, January 17, 2013. Said premises are located in BARRY County, Michigan and are described as: City of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan: The South 1/2 of Lot 73 of the original plat of the city, formerly village of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof. Property Address: 211 South Market Street Hastings, Michigan 49058 Tax ID No. 55-001-24700 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If this property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Fifth Third Bank (Western Michigan) Mortgagee/Assignee Gerner & Kearns, PLLC 526 Superior Avenue East, Suite 630 77573126 Cleveland, OH 44114 (12-13)(01-03) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Donald J. Daldos and Janice M. Daldos, husband and wife as joint tenants, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated November 10, 2004, and recorded on November 23, 2004 in instrument 1137660, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Seven Thousand Five Hundred Sixty-Four and 35/100 Dollars ($137,564.35). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on December 20, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Baltimore, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Parcel B: That part of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 14, Town 2 North, Range 8 West, described as: Commencing at the East 1/4 corner of said Section; thence South 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West 659.50 feet along the East line of said Southeast 1/4 to the place of beginning; thence South 00 degrees 00 minutes 00 seconds West 329.75 feet; thence South 89 degrees 41 minutes 11 seconds West 1306.24 feet; thence North 00 degrees 18 minutes 32 seconds East 329.92 feet along the West line of the Northeast 1/4 of said Southeast 1/4; thence North 89 degrees 41 minutes 36 seconds East 1304.76 feet to the place of beginning. Subject to highway rights of way for Charlton Park Road The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 22, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #413865F01 77572509 (11-22)(12-13) GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. Synopsis ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING December 4, 2012 Meeting called to order at 7:00. All board members present. Approved minutes from the November 13, 2012 meeting. Treasurer’s report read and put on file. Fire report read and put on file. County Commissioners report read. Library and Parks and Recreation report read. Public Comment received. Approved the 2013 calendar. Approved paying of the bills in the amount of $27,984.95. Approved meeting with the Barry County Road Commission on February 5, 2013. Approved motion to adjourn. Respectfully submitted, Jennifer Goy, Clerk Attested to by Thomas Rook, Supervisor 77572965 NOTICE OF JUDICIAL FORECLOSURE SALE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE IF YOU ARE A BORROWER ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY ATTENTION PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the circuit court at the request of the plaintiff. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest, as determined by the court. Barry County Circuit Court Case No. 10-618CH NOTICE OF JUDICIAL SALE JUDICIAL SALE IN PURSUANCE and by virtue of Judgment(s) and/or Order(s) of foreclosure in the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on the 12th day of January, 2012, in a certain cause therein pending, wherein HSBC Mortgage Services, Inc. was the Plaintiff and Jeff Schantz was the defendant. The aforementioned Judgment(s) and/or Order(s) established a debt owing to Plaintiff in the amount of $127,979.10, plus post-judgment interest at an annual rate of 8.125% and other amounts recoverable pursuant to said Judgment(s) and/or Order(s). NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that in order to satisfy said Judgment(s) and/or Order(s), in whole or in part, the property described below shall be sold at public auction, by an authorized sheriff / deputy sheriff or county Clerk/Deputy county Clerk, to the highest bidder, at the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, on the 24th of January, 2013 at 1:00 PM, local time. On said day at said time, the following described property shall be sold: property located in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, particularly described as The West 1/2 of Lots 1302 and 1303 of the City, Formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof.. Tax Parcel ID: 08-55-201-447-00 More commonly known as: 227 W South St, REDEMPTION PERIOD IS SIX MONTHS. For more information please call 248.642.2515. Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys for Plaintiff 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334-2525 T# 329389L02 77572736 (12-06)(01-10) IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT 248-502-1400. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Judy McMillan and Ronald McMillan wife and husband, to Centex Home Equity Company, LLC, Mortgagee, dated October 26, 2005 and recorded November 9, 2005 in Instrument Number 1156026, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Soundview Home Loan Trust 2006-2 by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Seventy-Six Thousand Seven Hundred Eleven and 50/100 Dollars ($176,711.50) including interest at 8.8% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 01/03/2013. Said premises are located in the Township of Assyria, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The following described premises situated in the Township of Assyria, County of Barry and State of Michigan: The Northeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 15, Town 1 North, Range 7 West. EXCEPT: The North 544.5 feet of the East 400 feet of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 15, Town 1 North, Range 7 West. Subject to an easement for public highway purposes over the Northerly 33 feet thereof for Cox Road, and over the Easterly 33 feet thereof for Guy Road. This property may be located within the vicinity of farm land or farm operation. Generally accepted agricultural and management practices which may generate noise, dust, odors, and other associated conditions may be used and are protected by the Michigan Right to Farm Act. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: December 6, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 306.4731 (12-06)(12-27) 77572885 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 12-26236 DE Estate of Carolyn Jean Ragucky, deceased. Date of birth: March 2, 1930. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Carolyn Jean Ragucky, who lived at 708 West Hickory Road, Battle Creek, Michigan died October 2, 2012. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Shayne M. Meder, named personal representative, or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court Street, Suite 302, Hastings and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: December 4, 2012 Vandervoort, Christ & Fisher, P.C. By: Nelson Karre P27639 70 W. Michigan Avenue, Suite 450 Battle Creek, MI 49017 269-965-7000 Shayne M. Meder 121 Adams Ave. 77572924 Riverside, CA 92518 SYNOPSIS RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP REGULAR BOARD MEETING NOVEMBER 14, 2012 -7:30 P.M. Regular meeting called to order and Pledge of Allegiance. Present: Greenfield, Lee, Carr, Bellmore, Hawthorne, Hanshaw, Flint. Approved the Agenda as presented. Approved the Consent Agenda as presented. Reappointed township library board representative, Nancy Topp. Reappointed Hawthorne and Hanshaw to Zoning Board of Appeals Forgave an erroneous summer tax bill on a taxexempt cable company. Approved a contract with Green Gables Haven in the amount of $3,000. 2013 Budget Public Hearing was held. Approved the 2013 Budget as presented. Approved the BCEDA request for financial support in the amount of $2,500. Approved the MTA membership. Approved the Intergovernmental Agreement letter. Approved and authorize the Supervisor and Clerk to execute the Rutland Charter Township-City of Hastings Urban Services and Economic Development Agreement. Meeting Adjourned at 9:22p.m. Respectfully submitted, Robin Hawthorne, Clerk Attested to by, Jim Carr, Supervisor 77573074 www.rutlandtownship.org MORTGAGE SALE This is an attempt to collect a debt, and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Please contact our office at the number below if you are in active military duty. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by RONALD K. HARNEY and JODI L. HARNEY, husband and wife, Mortgagors, to INDEPENDENT MORTGAGE CO. WEST MI, with offices at 4200 East Beltline, Grand Rapids, MI 49525, Mortgagee, dated January 8, 2007 and recorded January 9, 2007 in Instrument No. 1174850 and Modification Agreement recorded in Instrument No. 201004190004052 of Mortgages, Page which was assigned to INDEPENDENT BANK of 4200 East Beltline, Grand Rapids, Michigan, by Assignment recorded in Instrument No. 2012-005873. By reason of such default the undersigned elects to declare the entire unpaid amount of said mortgage due and payable forthwith. At the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on said mortgage the sum of ONE HUNDRED SIXTEEN THOUSAND THREE and 14/100 ($116,003.14) dollars including interest at the rate of 5.0% per annum. No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided and to pay said amount with interest as provided in said mortgage, and all legal costs, charges, and expenses, including attorney fees allowed by law, said mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the east door of the Barry County Courthouse, the place of holding the Circuit Court within the County of Barry, City of Hastings, Michigan, on January 17, 2013, at 1:00 p.m., local time. Pursuant to Public Act No. 104, Public Acts of 1971, MCLA 600.3240, MSA 27A.3240, the redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of the foreclosure sale, unless the property is determined to be abandoned under MCLA 600.3241a; MSA 27A.3241(1), in which case the property may be redeemed during the 30 days immediately following the sale or expiration of statutory notice period. The premises covered by said mortgage are situated in the Township of Castleton, County of Barry, State of Michigan, described as follows, to wit: Beginning at a point on the East and West 1/4 line of Section 33, Town 3 North, Range 7 West, Castleton Township, Barry County, Michigan, distant South 89 degrees 51'07" East 218.82 feet from the West 1/4 corner of said section; thence North 00 degrees 03'57" West 305.27 feet; thence South 89 degrees 51'07" East 325.84 feet (also described as 325.64 feet); thence South 00 degrees 03'57" East 305.27 feet to said East and West 1/4 line; thence North 89 degrees 51'07" West 325.64 feet along said 1/4 line to the point of beginning. Except and subject to an easement for public highway purposes for Highway M-79 (formerly Scott Road) as described in the document in Liber 238 of Deeds on Page 77. INDEPENDENT BANK, Assignee of INDEPENDENT MORTGAGE CO. WEST MI SCHENK, BONCHER & RYPMA Curtis D. Rypma P44421 601 Three Mile Road, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49544-1601 77572899 (616) 647-8277 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Diana Marie Peters, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 10, 2003, and recorded on January 22, 2003 in instrument 1096042, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Flagstar Bank, FSB as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Fifty-Six Thousand Two Hundred Thirty-One and 43/100 Dollars ($56,231.43). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on December 20, 2012. Said premises are situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lot 69, Lynden Johncock Plat #1, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 3 of Plats on Page 93. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: November 22, 2012 For more information, please call: FC J (248) 593-1311 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #402486F03 77572606 (11-22)(12-13) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by DAVID A. GAIKEMA and MARY ELLEN GAIKEMA, husband and wife (collectively, "Mortgagor"), to SAND RIDGE BANK, an Indiana corporation, of PO Box 598, Schereville, Indiana 46375, dated April 23, 2004, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on April 28, 2004, as instrument number 1126578 (the “Mortgage”). First Financial Bank, N.A., a national association, of 300 High Street, PO Box 476, Hamilton, Ohio 45011-0476, was the successor by consolidation to Sand Ridge Bank, and subsequently assigned the Mortgage to CHEMICAL BANK, a Michigan banking corporation, having an office at 333 E. Main Street, Midland, Michigan 48640-6511 (the "Mortgagee"), pursuant to the terms of a Branch Purchase and Assumption Agreement dated May 11, 2006, and a Bill of Sale dated August 18, 2006, evidence of which will be placed of record prior to the date of sale (the "Mortgage"). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgagee is the owner of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Two Hundred Sixty-Three Thousand Three Hundred Forty and 96/100 Dollars ($263,340.96). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 10th day of January, 2013, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the Township of Yankee Springs, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: Lot 22 of Ritchie Woodlands, according to the recorded plat thereof; also commencing on the East line of Beatrice Avenue of the Plat of Ritchie Woodlands, 33 feet Easterly from the North lot line of Lot 22; thence Easterly parallel with said North lot line 100 feet; thence Southerly parallel with East line of Beatrice Avenue 50 feet; thence Westerly parallel with the South line of Lot No. 22, 100 feet to Beatrice Avenue; thence Northerly 50 feet to beginning, being a part of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 28, Town 3 North, Range 10 West. Together with all the improvements erected on the real estate, and all easements, appurtenances, and fixtures a part of the property, and all replacements and additions. Commonly known as: 2926 Beatrice Avenue, Middleville, Michigan 49333 P.P. #08-016-190-014-00 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys the premises at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee for damaging the premises during the redemption period. Dated: November 29, 2012 CHEMICAL BANK Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2487 (616) 752-2000 77572689 8730529-1 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Lisa Stocks, unmarried, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated November 8, 2007, and recorded on January 17, 2008 in instrument 200801170000545, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Wells Fargo Bank, NA as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Seven Thousand Three Hundred Seventy-Five and 88/100 Dollars ($97,375.88). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on January 10, 2013. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 45 and 46, Melody Acres, according to the plat thereof recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 21, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: December 13, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #216699F03 77573121 (12-13)(01-03) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by CARL D. MILLER and THERESA M. MILLER, husband and wife (collectively, "Mortgagor"), to FIRST FINANCIAL BANK, NA, a national association, of 300 High Street, PO Box 476, Hamilton, Ohio 45011-0467, dated February 27, 2006, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on March 7, 2006, as Instrument No. 1161010 (the "Mortgage"). First Financial Bank, NA, has assigned the Mortgage to CHEMICAL BANK, a Michigan banking corporation, of 333 East Main Street, Midland, Michigan 48640-6511 (the "Mortgagee"). By reason of such default, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgagee is the owner of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage. As of the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Eighty-Four Thousand Nine Hundred Sixty-Eight and 78/100 Dollars ($84,968.78). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay the above amount, with interest, as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including the attorney fee allowed by law, and all taxes and insurance premiums paid by the undersigned before sale, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the east entrance of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan on Thursday the 10th day of January, 2013, at one o’clock in the afternoon. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situated in the Township of Carlton, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: A parcel of land in the Southeast one-quarter of Section 32, Town 4 North, Range 8 West, Carlton Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Commencing at the Southeast corner of said Section 32; thence North 89 degrees 53 minutes West 1320.4 feet; thence North 0 degrees 04 minutes West 1886.75 feet; thence West 550.37 feet to the Place of Beginning; thence South 175 feet; thence West 433 feet; thence North 28 degrees 40 minutes East 85.5 feet to the South line of Outlot A, Supervisor’s Plat of Bauer’s Resort; thence East 359 feet; thence North 100 feet; thence East 33 feet to the Place of Beginning. Except the East 33 feet for right of way, described as follows: Commence at the Southeast corner of said Section 32; thence North 89 degrees 53 minutes West 1320.4 feet; thence North 0 degrees 04 minutes West 1886.75 feet; thence West 550.37 feet to the Place of Beginning; thence South 175 feet; thence West 33 feet; thence North 175 feet; thence East 33 feet to the Place of Beginning. Together with all the improvements erected on the real estate, and all easements, appurtenances, and fixtures a part of the property, and all replacements and additions. Commonly known as: 304 Leach Lake Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058 P.P. #08-04-032-497-00 Notice is further given that the length of the redemption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days after the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600.3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor's heirs, executor, or administrator, or a person lawfully claiming from or under one (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys the premises at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee for damaging the premises during the redemption period. Dated: November 29, 2012 CHEMICAL BANK Mortgagee Timothy Hillegonds WARNER NORCROSS & JUDD LLP 900 Fifth Third Center 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2487 (616) 752-2000 77572621 8723050-1 �Page 12 — Thursday, December 13, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Late campaign paperwork costs newly elected officials by Doug VanderLaan Editor Four newly elected county and township officials are already making contributions to their new boards — even as they’ve recently taken their new offices or await assuming their positions Jan. 1. Due to late filing of required campaign finance reports, Jim DeYoung and Jim Dull, Barry County commissioners-elect; Melissa Steward, trustee-elect of the Village of Woodland; and Mollie Wilkins, Freeport clerk-elect have been assessed fines payable to the Barry County Clerk’s office. “I knew I was late, and, of course, I’m going to pay it,” said DeYoung, who was hit with a $1,625 penalty for late filing of a postprimary election report, as well as a late pregeneral election report. “They were simple forms, and I just overlooked them.” COURT NEWS Mollie Wilkins, Freeport clerk-elect Victor Wesley Hovorka, 32, of Battle Creek was sentenced in Barry County Circuit Court Dec. 5 for assaulting, resisting or obstructing a police officer. Judge Amy McDowell ordered Hovorka to serve nine months in jail, with credit for 61 days served. He must pay $1,198 in court assessments and serve 18 months on probation. The last four months of his jail sentence will be suspended upon successful completion of probation. Hovorka must pay $75 a month toward assessments. The Barry County Prosecutor’s office dropped a second charge of assaulting, resisting or obstructing a police officer and a charge of assaulting, resisting or obstructing a police officer causing injury. Sprague’s employment. The prosecutor’s office dropped the felony charge of habitual offender, fourth offense. Lenona Lynn Baker, 47, of Delton was sentenced Dec. 5 in Barry County Circuit Court for attempted welfare fraud failure to inform $500 or more. Judge Amy McDowell ordered Baker to serve 30 days in jail, with credit for one day served. She must pay $6,704 in court costs and restitution and also must serve 24 months on probation. The balance of her jail sentence will be suspended upon successful completion of probation. Baker must pay $30 a month toward court costs and $50 a month to the Department of Human Services for restitution. The Barry County Prosecutor dropped charges of welfare fraud over $500 and failure to inform. Anthony Tywonne Turner, 33, of Lansing was sentenced in Barry County Circuit Court Dec. 6 for attempted unarmed robbery. Judge Amy McDowell ordered Turner to serve 30 days in jail, with credit for 23 days served. He must pay $698 in court assessments, at least $75 a month. Turner was ordered to serve 12 months on probation, but probation will be dropped upon full payment of assessments. A charge of unarmed robbery was dropped by the Barry County Prosecutor. David Shane Sprague, 38, of League City, Texas, was sentenced in Barry County Circuit Court Dec. 5 for failure to pay child support. Judge Amy McDowell ordered Sprague to serve six months in jail, with credit for 70 days served. Sprague must pay $17,377 in court costs and restitution. He also must serve 60 months on probation. The last three months of his jail sentence will be suspended upon successful completion of probation. A wage assignment will be executed upon Robert Duane Collins Jr., 22, of Lansing was sentenced in Barry County Circuit Court Dec. 6 for attempted unarmed robbery. Judge Amy McDowell ordered Collins to serve 30 days in jail, with credit for 23 days served. Collins must pay $498 in court assessments, at least $50 a month. He was ordered to serve 12 months on probation, which will be dropped upon full payment of court assessments. He may serve time on the weekends. A charge of unarmed robbery was dropped by the Barry County Prosecutor. Kevin Wayne Heisler, 42, of Nashville was sentenced Dec. 6 in Barry County Circuit Court for firearm possession and operating under the influence of liquor, third offense. Judge Amy McDowell ordered Heisler to serve 24 to 90 months in prison for each charge, with credit for 112 days served. The two sentences will be served concurrently. Heisler also must pay $226 in court costs. Charges of felony firearms possession; operating with driver’s license suspended; revoked or denied, and unlawful use of a license plate, registration or vehicle title were dropped by the prosecutor’s office. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 For Sale Automotive Help Wanted 100% WOOD HEAT, no worries. Keep your family safe and warm with an OUTDOOR WOOD FURNACE from Central Boiler. D-2 Outdoor Wood Boilers, (616-437-4334. THE DETAIL WORKS gift certificates on sale now until Christmas Eve, 8am-5pm, Monday-Friday. (269)9480958 DRIVERS: NEED HOME Time, Miles? Dedicated Home Weekly. NEW Signon Bonus $1,000. CDL-A, 1 yr. OTR. MTS: 800-748-0192 x208/x214. ACHIEVE ENERGY INDEPENDENCE- With a Classic Outdoor Wood Furnace from Central Boiler. 25 year warranty. Call SOS your “Stocking Dealer” Dutton, MI (616)554-8669 or (616)915-5061 AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 NORDICTRACK TREADMILL: new aprox. $700, selling for $250, excellent condition. (269)948-2479 GET MORE NEWS! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Only $35 per year in Barry County. Phone (269)945-9554. Recreation WANTED HUNTING LAND: (2) Families are interested in leasing acreage for this years deer season. Call (269)795-3049 Business Services LOOKING FOR a different kind of Christmas gift? Give them the gift of a clean car. Buy a gift certificate from Roy’s Detail. Call (269)9086776 for service options & prices. “I filled out the paperwork, and I filled it out honestly, but there was no election committee, and I never raised any money. The form even wanted me to list the bank in which I deposited campaign money — but there was none, I never even had a campaign sign.” Estate Sale ESTATE/MOVING SALES: by Bethel Timmer - The Cottage House Antiques. (269)795-8717 or (616)9019898. National Ads THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT KNOWINGLY accept advertising which is deceptive, fraudulent or might otherwise violate law or accepted standards of taste. However, this publicaHelp Wanted tion does not warrant or DRIVER TRAINEES guarantee the accuracy of NEEDED NOW! any advertisement, nor the Learn to drive for quality of goods or services Werner Enterprises. advertised. Readers are cauEarn $800+ per week. tioned to thoroughly investiNo experience needed! gate all claims made in any CDL trained and advertisements, and to use job-ready in 15 days! good judgment and reasona1-800-882-7364. ble care, particularly when Werner Enterprises. dealing with persons unknown to you ask for money MENTAL HEALTH PEER in advance of delivery of SUPPORT SPECIALIST: A goods or services advertised. part-time position is available for a per support specialPUBLISHER’S NOTICE: ist in a mental health and All real estate advertising in this newssubstance abuse agency. A paper is subject to the Fair Housing Act peer support specialist will and the Michigan Civil Rights Act collectively make it illegal to support, mentor and provide which advertise “any preference, limitation or assistance to mental health discrimination based on race, color, relibeneficiaries to achieve com- gion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or munity inclusion, participa- an intention to make any such prefertion, independence, recovery ence, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under and productivity. Interested the age of 18 living with parents or legal individuals must be in re- custodians, pregnant women and people custody of children under 18. covery from sever mental ill- securing This newspaper will not knowingly ness and have received or accept any advertising for real estate is in violation of the law. Our are receiving services from which readers are hereby informed that all the public mental health sys- dwellings advertised in this newspaper tem. Send resume to Barry are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the County Community Mental Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. Health Authority, 915 West The HUD toll-free telephone number for Green Street, Hastings, the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. Michigan 49058. No phone calls. EOE. 77564784 DeYoung made his remarks following Tuesday’s Barry County Board of Commissioners meeting which he and his newly-elected colleagues, Dull, Joyce Snow and Jon Smelker attended The four take office on Jan. 1. Dull had already paid his $525 fine for a late pre-general election report, but said the paperwork was filed on time though it lacked a check in a mandatory authorization box that triggered the late filing report. “Oh well, the county needs the money,” quipped Dull, “easy come, easy go, I guess.” Steward is on the hook for a $230 fine due to late filing of a Campaign Statement of Organization report, which has yet to be paid. Steward did not return a voice mail request left by the Banner to her cell phone on Wednesday morning. Wilkins’ fine is still being contested and remains unpaid, in part, due to confusion over her election as a write-in candidate. County Clerk Pam Jarvis explained that Wilkins needed to file a pre-election Campaign Statement of Organization report, even though her write-in candidacy began just days before the November election. Because a $10-per-day fine begins after the receipt of the form and because a date has not been established for when it should have been on file, the fine currently stands at $20. That’s where the story gets confusing and Wilkins’ reaction to it all, somewhat amusing. “I filled out the paperwork, and I filled it out honestly,” said Wilkins of the first communication from the clerk’s office, “but there was no election committee, and I never raised any money. The form even wanted me to list the bank in which I deposited campaign money — but there was none, I never even had a campaign sign.” After receiving a second form, Wilkins said she’ll be happy to fill it out “but I guess I’m going to have to lie.” Campaign finance information is required of any candidate who raises more than $1,000 or spends a similar amount. “There’s no way I’d spend $1,000 on a $300-per-month job,” said Wilkins, who intends to keep a two-day-per-week schedule at the village office located directly across the street from her home. “I wasn’t even an actual candidate; my name wasn’t even on the ballot,” said Wilkins, who was stunned to receive 15 votes when she needed only one vote to win the election since she was unopposed. “I’ve only lived here eight months — I don’t know that many people.” Even Wilkins’ swearing-in ceremony was unconventional in that it had to be repeated at the county clerk’s office after she was improperly sworn in by a village trustee rather than a board officer. Jarvis said 40 days is the accrual fine limit on overdue campaign paperwork. If penalties are unpaid, the case is reported to the county treasurer, who is authorized to then attach a property lien on the offender. Several candidates on the November ballot have actually received money back from the county as refunds of their $100 candidate filing fees. The candidates were accorded the refund after filing the required petition signature document and having names verified by the county. Candidates for office are allowed the choice of filing a signature petition or paying a $100 candidate fee. Among those candidates listed in a customary check voucher reporting document issued to county commissioners Nov. 5 were county board candidates Barb Cichy, DeYoung, Ben Geiger; register of deeds candidates Barb Hurless and Linda Watson; clerk candidate Jarvis; prosecutor candidate Julie NakfoorPratt; surveyor candidate Brian Reynolds; and treasurer candidate Susan VandeCar. POLICE BEAT Guns, medicine taken in Nashville break-in Barry County Deputies were called to a residence on Guy Road in Nashville Dec. 6 for a reported breaking and entering. The caller said someone had forced entry into his home while he was at work. He told deputies when he returned from work, he noticed his coin jars were empty and they saw the back door was open. The man told deputies when he checked his bedrooms, a heavy-gauge black plastic box where is keeps his long guns was missing from the closet. The box was secured with two padlocks. According to the homeowner, the thief had gone through his cupboards and taken to bottles of medication. He said six long guns and a .45 cal pistol, $150 in coins, medication and a fabric shoulder bag were estimated at about $4,100. There are no suspects and no witnesses. The case remains open. Man’s lazy days end in arrest Deputies were called to a South Main Street residence in Woodland Dec. 6 for a reported domestic assault. The caller told dispatchers that an intoxicated man had assaulted her husband and daughter and that three young children were still in the house, locked in the bathroom with her. Deputies reported that the husband had an obvious injury to his right eye. The suspect, a 21-year-old from Grand Rapids was found by deputies on the back deck. When they asked him to leave the deck, he staggered and spoke with slurred speech. According to the report, the suspect also had a swollen and bloody lower lip. He became aggressive and swore at deputies, one of whom pointed a Taser and ordered the man to the ground. The suspect went to the ground, but continued to yell and spit at the deputies, challenging them to fight. He struck a deputy attempting to handcuff him. When the woman’s daughter was questioned, she told deputies the man was her boyfriend and that they were living at her parents’ house with her three daughters. She told deputies the man had been “just lazing” around her parents’ house for weeks and they wanted him to leave. She said the man was drinking and began kicking her, and her daughters started screaming for him to stop. She said her dad came into the room and a physical confrontation began between the two men. When questioned, the victim’s father told deputies he had heard his grandchildren screaming from the upstairs bedroom and confronted the suspect when he saw they were screaming at the boyfriend. The father said the boyfriend punched him in the eye and put him in a choke hold. The suspect was arrested and transported to jail where his blood alcohol level registered .246 percent. A charging request was forwarded to the Barry County Prosecutor. Neighborhood feud puts child in the headlights A woman called the Barry County Sheriff’s office Dec. 2 to report her neigh- bor had allegedly tried to run over her 5year-old daughter at the intersection of Lake Drive and Woodland Drive near Long Lake in Hope Township. Reportedly, there is a long history of disputes between the neighbors. The complainant said she had not seen the incident, but she had it on video from her surveillance camera. She was watching her daughter play outdoors when the 32-year-old female suspect allegedly drove toward the young girl at about 40 miles per hour before swerving at the last minute. The woman said her daughter had jumped into the van her husband was working on and told him the woman had tried to hit her with the truck. Upon interview, the suspect told deputies she did not speed up, swerve or try to hit the girl. The case remains open. Trail camera is out of sight A Nashville man reported the theft of his trail camera Dec. 1. The man said the $80 camera was mounted on a tree about 60 yards behind his Thornapple Lake Road home. No suspects have been identified at this time and the case is inactive. Garage is enough for thief Deputies were called to a home on South M-66 near Nashville Dec. 4 in reference to a breaking and entering. The homeowner called 911 to report her garage entry door window had been smashed and the door was open. Deputies found the door open on the attached garage, but saw no evidence of the residence being entered. The case is closed. Grinchy thief tears into presents A Dowling man reported that someone had entered his Bird Road home near the corner of Fruin Road in Johnstown Township Dec. 7. He told deputies he was away from the house between noon and 3:30 p.m. When he returned, he said presents under the Christmas tree had been disturbed, and wrapping on several packages had been torn off. The man told deputies other things were out of place and the rear door was open. Six guns were missing from an upstairs bedroom closet along with a laptop computer, digital camera and two Kindle eReaders. No fingerprints were found. There are no suspects and the case is closed. Engineless snowmobile takes a trip A man called the sheriff’s office Dec. 7 to report a snowmobile and trailer had been stolen from his uncle’s property on East Carlton Center Road. He said the snowmobile had sat on the trailer for the past five years after he removed the engine. Deputies contacted a possible suspect, but the man denied taking the snowmobile. The SkiDoo Mach 1 with no engine has an estimated value of $850 and the trailer is worth about $500. GET MORE NEWS! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 269-945-9554 for more information. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, December 13, 2012 — Page 13 BUSINESS BRIEFS • Sue Chase, Don Glasgow and Dale Morey were recognized for 20 years of service to Barry County Central Dispatch. Their dedication to the organization, to public safety and to the citizens of Barry County was commended at a Dec. 4 staff meeting. • A matching gift by the Feldpausch Foundation to the $16,500 raised during the foundation’s fifth annual golf outing provided a $33,000 donation to the Cancer Care Medication Fund at Bronson Battle Creek. The fund assures that cancer patients who have little or no insurance will have access to needed medications for their treatments. The Feldpausch Foundation was formed through the success of a three-generation grocery chain founded in Hastings in 1933. It invests its resources in local charitable causes. More than $100,000 has been raised through the golf outing over the past five years for local cancer programs. • Ian McGonigal has been promoted to regional vice president of sales and customer relations for GreenStone Farm Credit Services and will oversee five of the cooperative’s branches in west Michigan, including the Hastings office. GreenStone is Michigan’s and northeast Wisconsin’s largest agricultural lender and the country’s sixth largest association in the Farm Credit System. It manages approximately $6.2 billion in assets and serves nearly 23,000 members with 37 branch locations in Michigan and northeast Wisconsin. Send us the business news from your company or organization and we’ll be happy to run it, as space allows. Mail to Business Briefs c/o The Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058 or email news@j-adgraphics.com. SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN Statement is a gift to yourself by Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Give yourself the gift of your own Social Security statement this holiday season. You can get yours online. The online Social Security statement is simple, easy to use and provides estimates you can use to plan for your retirement. It also provides estimates for disability and survivors benefits, making the statement an important financial planning tool. To get a personalized online statement, you must be age 18 or older and must be able to provide information about yourself that matches information already on file with Social Security. In addition, Social Security uses Experian, an external authentication service provider, for further verification. You must provide identifying information and answer security questions in order to pass this verification. Social Security will not share your Social Security number with Experian, but the identity check is an important part of this new, thorough verification process. When your identity is verified, you can cre- ate a “My Social Security” account with a unique user name and password to access your online statement. In addition, your online statement includes links to information about other online Social Security services, such as applications for retirement, disability and Medicare. This holiday season, it’s likely you’ll be hearing some of your friends and family saying “you shouldn’t have” as they receive their gifts from you. That’s something to look forward to. But be sure you don’t find yourself saying “I should have” when it comes to planning your own financial future. Get your online Social Security statement and look it over. Do it again next year. It may be the best gift you can give to yourself in the long run. Your free gift is waiting at www.socialsecurity.gov/mystatement. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. State News Roundup MSP: Overall peaceful crowds attend rally in Lansing The Michigan State Police reported that the large crowds at the Capitol Tuesday were mostly peaceful. NBC News reported that as many as 10,000 people flocked to the capitol Tuesday to protest passage of “right to work” legislation. Throughout the day, union marshals and captains worked well with troopers and the House and Senate sergeant at arms to help maintain safety and order of people both inside the Capitol and outside, said Trooper Tiffany Brown in a press release. Police used pepper spray in a few incidents in which the crowds refused to release a trooper or were pushing troopers against a wall. The crowd did as told, and no arrests were made in those incidents, she said. Three people were arrested, Brown reported, two who refused to leave the Romney Building and one later who refused to comply with commands when more troopers were arriving to reinforce those already stationed at the Romney Building. All arrests were misdemeanor charges. All use of pepper spray came from individual containers carried by the troopers, said Brown; there was no mass deployment of pepper spray or tear gas. Troopers responded to a few minor calls for medical assistance and altercations between protesters, said Brown. No major injuries or medical emergencies were reported to the MSP. Charlevoix County is first ‘Connected Community’ in the country The Connected Community Engagement Program, managed here by Connect Michigan, supports the building of a comprehensive action plan for a “connected” community by reviewing the technology landscape, developing regional partnerships, establishing local teams, and conducting an More than 12,000 protesters attend a rally at the state capitol to protest a package of right-to-work bills voted on by the Michigan legislature Tuesday, Dec. 11. Approximately 2,000 ralliers were inside and 10,000 outside the capitol building. (Photo provided by Lansing City Police) assessment of broadband access, adoption and use. Working with Connect Michigan, Michigan State University Extension partner the Northern Lakes Economic Alliance provided staff leadership to organize and direct this effort. MSU Extension educator and NLEA president Andy Hayes explained that the certification came after a several-month-long assessment undertaken by Charlevoix County Community Engagement and the creation of the Charlevoix Broadband Action Plan. The plan contains specific recommendations of projects to expand digital literacy, build awareness of the benefits of broadband, help businesses with websites and social media, and improve the online presence of local governments, among other recommendations. “Achieving the status of connected certification affords a community an avenue to discuss its success and pursue opportunities as a recognized, technologically advanced community,” Hayes said. “This is an incredibly important part of our effort to develop highspeed broadband infrastructure in our region. This shows service providers that there is a market and a willingness to expand.” Michigan begins process to make new synthetic drug illegal The Michigan Board of Pharmacy has begun the process of the emergency schedul- ing of a class of synthetic drugs called Phenethylamine. Michigan Department of Community Health Director James K. Haveman issued an imminent danger notification Dec. 3 to the Michigan Board of Pharmacy within the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs to begin the process of making this class of chemicals illegal in Michigan. The scheduling of Phenethylamine drugs and a variety of amphetamine-like stimulants will not immediately take effect, but requesting an emergency scheduling is the first step in the process. Michigan has had 19 cases that resulted in emergency department treatment and while there have been no fatalities in Michigan, there have been five nationwide, said LARA Acting Director Steve Arwood Information regarding this new drug indicates that it’s coming in from overseas and being distributed within the state. In some instances, users have been physically combative with law enforcement and EMS personnel, said Arwood. Information has shown that use of these chemicals has resulted in severe physiological and psychological effects on users, who experienced hallucinations, disorientation, renal failure, seizures, rapid heart beat, shock, acute respiratory failure, central nervous system depression and more. The imminent danger notification by MDCH allows the Michigan Board of Pharmacy to create an emergency rule to schedule this class of chemicals as a controlled substance, effectively making them illegal in Michigan. Thornapple Kellogg takes Saxon Sports title at Grandville Challenge Shorts JV Wrestling Jeremy Miller, Alex Traister, Tyler Youngs, Jermiah Shaffer, William McKeever and Travis Hoffman from the Saxon JV Wrestling team won their flights at Saturday’s Lakewood Invitational. Placing second was Tony Gibson. George Murphy and Quintin Wigg were both third. JV Boys’ Basketball The Hastings JV boys’ basketball team defeated Lakewood Tuesday 46-33. Leading the way for the Saxons were Cole Hardin with 15 points and Drew Stolicker with 11 points. Peter Beck had five rebounds and Aaron Bronson had five assists and five steals. The Saxons charged out to a 26-5 first quarter lead at Alma Friday night and won 63-25. Leading scorers for Hastings were Bronson and Stolicker with ten points each points. Beck added eight points while Manny Quesada and Evan Hart each had seven. The Saxons leading rebounder was Evan Hart with five. Call anytime for Hastings Banner classified ads 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 The Trojans had three individual champions and took the team title as well Saturday at the eight-team Grandville Challenge. The experienced Trojans in the upperweights led the way. Cole Gahan edged Bay City Western’s Charles Proctor 7-5 with a take down in the second period of overtime to win the 160pound championship. The other Trojans didn’t need to wrestle near as long in the finals. Dan Dykstra in the 171-pound championship pinned Detroit Catholic Central’s John Sterelinck 1 minute and 36 seconds into their finals match. Pete Westra at 189 pounds stuck Farmington Hills Harrison’s Michael Robinson 31 seconds into their championship bout. TK had one other wrestler in the finals, Chris Poland at 119 pounds. He was pinned by Grandville’s Dakota Torravia at the very end of the first period in the finals. The Trojan team had four fourth-place finishes and three fifth-place finishes as well to best runner-up Battle Creek Lakeview. Detroit Catholic Central was third on the day and Grandville fourth. Ronaldo Sambrano at 112 pounds, Ryan Flynn at 125, Nick Flynn at 130 and Nick Iveson at 145 all placed fourth. Austin Sensiba at 140 pounds, Chad Geers at 215 and Hunter Herrera at 285 were the Trojans’ fifth-place finishers. TK was slated to travel to Grand Rapids Christian last night. Hornets’ 10 threes too many for the Vikings to overcome It all turned south so fast. Lakewood’s varsity girls basketball team led by eight points with a little over three minutes left in Friday’s Capital Area Activities Conference White Division opener against visiting Williamston. The Vikings fouled a Williamston threepoint shooter, then gave up an offensive rebound on the missed foul shot. The Hornets went back up with the ball to cut the Viking lead to three. After a Viking turnover, a defensive breakdown led to another Hornet threepointer and a tie ball game. The night ended in a 46-41 Williamston win. Those two key three-pointers were two of ten that the Hornets hit on the night. The Hornets spread out the Vikings defensively, and the Lakewood defense never made the adjustment it needed to to stop giving up open looks. “We got impatient and did not execute offensively down the stretch, and gave up some clean looks and they hit the shot,” said Lakewood head coach Denny Frost. “We can not give up ten threes and expect to win any game. “We didn’t have the same energy, which sometimes happens when a team is shooting well. We have to get tougher and play through it. We still had a solid chance to win the game, but did not make the plays when we needed. It wasn’t for lack of effort, we just have to work harder.” Lakewood had a 27-24 lead at the half, and improved that lead slightly by outscoring the Hornets 4-3 in the third quarter. Williamston outscored the Vikings 19-10 in the final eight minutes though. Laura Rosekrans led the Hornets with 20 points and Georgia Gregoricka added 13. Emily Kutch had 18 points to lead the Vikings, as well as six rebounds. Brooke Wieland had eight points and four steals. Konnor Geiger and Liz Campeau chipped in five points each. The Vikings are now 2-2 on the season. They fell in a non-conference contest at Hastings Tueaday. Lakewood will be at home against CAACWhite rival Portland Friday night. Special Holiday Hours Open Saturday, Dec. 15 & 22 8:30am to 1:00pm 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings (269) 945-9105 • (269) 945-2680 FAX Open Monday thru Friday 8:30 to 6:00 www. sunshinepackandship.com �Page 14 — Thursday, December 13, 2012 — The Hastings Banner DK girls get their first two conference victories by Brett Bremer Sports Editor Everything was going good for the Lions and then poof, it wasn’t. Maple Valley’s varsity girls’ basketball team handled Delton Kellogg’s full-court pressure, attacked the basket a little bit on the offensive end, and came out of the first quarter down just 9-7 at Delton Kellogg High School Friday. Then the Lions turned the ball over against the Panther pressure seven times in the first two and a half minutes of the second quarter. The Panthers pushed their lead to double digits during that stretch, at 19-7, and continued to extend the lead for most of the rest of the evening. The Lions started trying to force some passes through the middle of the Delton Kellogg pressure. It was a move that coincided perfectly for the Panthers with a new defensive alignment. “We went into our 51 press, which helped a little bit,” said Delton Kellogg head coach Mike Mohn. “Sarah Rendon, this was her first game as our interceptor which is our middle gal here. She kind of plays free safety back there, and we found ourselves a new interceptor. She was dynamite.” Rendon had a couple steals and a couple deflections during that stretch early in the second quarter. She finished the night with four steals and six points. Delton Kellogg also got a great defensive game from Rachel Parker, who finished with six steals and 13 points. “We went away from the things that we were successful with,” said Maple Valley head coach Landon Wilkes. “We lost our composure.” “I think a lot of it is, when we make a mistake we compound mistake, after mistake, after mistake rather than composing ourselves and doing what we need to do or what we had been doing. We were extremely successful I thought by just taking our time, reversing the ball.” The Lions managed just five points in the second quarter and four in the third. The Panthers worked their bench into the rotation in the third and fourth quarters, something Mohn was happy to be able to do, and the Lions kept battling. The Lions outscored Delton 14-6 in the final eight minutes. Wilkes said he saw his girls “going to the basket. Guards were penetrating and making things happen at the basket rather than just being content throwing the ball around the outside. “I think in the first quarter we did the same Delton Kellogg’s Christy Gonzalez (left) thwarts a shot attempt by Maple Valley’s Jacey Wood during Friday night’s contest. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Panther guard Rachel Parker puts pressure on Maple Valley’s Marissa Pierce on the wing during her team’s 52-30 win over the Lions Friday night at Delton Kellogg High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) thing against them. We attacked the basket and made some things happen. We didn’t score a boatload of points, but we scored some points to keep us in the ball game.” Olivia Ricketts did a good job of attacking the basket at times and led the Lions with 11 points. Alivia Johncock finished with six points and Johanna Kyle, Timara Burd and Emily Burkett had four points each. Behind Parker for Delton, Kristen Mohn finished with ten points, Brooke Martin seven and Mallory Sewell seven points and seven rebounds. Aleeha Davis and Christy Gonzalez had six rebounds each for Delton. The Panthers improved to 3-1 overall and 2-1 in the KVA with a 51-40 win at Hackett Catholic Central Tuesday. Sewell led the way in what coach Mohn called “arguably the best game of her high school career.” She finished with 23 points, 13 rebounds, four steals and five deflections that turned into steals by one of her teammates.. Parker also had a big night, finishing with ten points, five steals and five assists. Delton Kellogg was comfortably ahead late in the third quarter, with a 15-point lead, but the Irish cut that down to four points with 1:04 left to play in the fourth. “Silly shots and a couple of turnovers cost us most of the lead,” coach Mohn said. “We did hit eight free throws in the fourth to maintain a lead and eventually close it out.” The Delton visit Constantine Friday. Delton Kellogg’s Brooke Martin runs the Panther offense as she’s pressured by Maple Valley’s Johanna Kyle during Friday night’s KVA contest at DKHS. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Maple Valley was at Constantine Tuesday. Friday, led the Lions with 18 points. Johncock The Lions ran out to a 20-11 lead at the half. added eight points and McKayla Lamance Constantine battled back in the second half, had five. but the Lions held off the Falcons with a 17Constantine got nine points from Miranda 11 run in the fourth quarter. McGlothlen and eight from Michelle Smith. Timara Burd, who was limited by an injury The Lions are at Parchment Friday. TK ladies shut down Hawks in first half, go on to victory The Trojans knocked off former OK Gold Conference foe Forest Hills Eastern in a nonconference clash in Middleville Friday, 4534. Kelli Graham poured in 20 points for the Trojans and Crystal Smith added eight points, seven steals and five rebounds. Graham had five steals herself. TK also got seven assists and seven rebounds from Dahlia Beckett. The Trojans limited the Hawks to just 11 points in the first half, taking a 21-11 lead into the break. TK is now 2-2 on the year. Gull Lake topped the Trojans 59-43 Tuesday in Richland. The Blue Devils jumped on TK early, outscoring the Trojans 14-3 in the openingquarter. TK clawed back to within six by the end of the first half, but the Blue Devils eventually put the Trojans away by outscoring them 2213 in the fourth quarter. Graham had 13 points for TK and Erin Scheidel added 12. The Blue Devils got 19 points from Alexis Ahlert and 11 from Abbey Watson. TK travels to Hamilton for anonther nonconference contest Friday. It takes overtime, but Delton boys get first ‘W’ by Brett Bremer Sports Editor It wasn’t just the first varsity win for new Delton Kellogg varsity boys’ basketball coach Steve Miknis, it was the first for most of his young players too. Delton Kellogg improved to 1-1 in the Kalamazoo Valley Association with a 55-52 overtime victory over Hackett Catholic Central in Delton Tuesday. Colton Tobias scored the final bucket of regulation in the paint for the Panthers, tying the game at 43-43 and sending it to overtime. Zach Leinaar then started the overtime with a quick bucket and made some clutch free throws down the stretch to ice it. Leinaar finished with 15 points, seven rebounds and six assists. Tobias had 12 points and ten rebounds, and Josh Arkwright also added 12 points for the Panthers. Delton Kellogg led 41-33 going into the fourth quarter, but Miknis said his team The Panthers’ TJ Wooden drives towards the basket during the fourth quarter Friday night against Maple Valley. (Photo by Brett Bremer) job of slowing his team down in the second quarter, along with some foul trouble. Bromley led the Maple Valley offense as well, finishing with 15 points. Mater finished with 11 and Miller and Austin Gonser had nine points each. “I thought that Maple Valley shot the ball extremely well,” said Miknis. “I knew they had a couple good shooters coming in. Being their first game, on the road, you’d like to think they might struggle a little bit, but I mean they just kind of hit the ground running on us.” Delton Kellogg got ten points and nine rebounds from Zach Meyers and nine points from Leinaar. Anthony Houtrow added six points and five rebounds. Delton Kellogg will be at Constantine Friday night. Maple Valley will be back in action at Parchment Friday. “The guys seem motivated and really New Delton Kellogg varsity boys’ basketball coach Steve Miknis shouts instructions to his coach during the fourth quarter of Friday’s KVA contest against Maple Valley at Delton Kellogg High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) missed some easy shots early on in the quar- four points from Garret Mater and three from ter. Garrett Miller. The Irish battled back to tie the game at 41It took some solid defense to make that run 41 and then had a momentary lead before happen. The Lions did well on the defensive Tobias scored the final points of regulation. side most of the night. Hackett got 11 points each from Ted Rider, “What I like is the fact that these guys have Bryan Bradley and Mark Allwardt. a goal of not giving up 12 points in a quarter, The Panthers and Irish are now both 1-2 and they did it all the way up until the 15 overall on the season. points in the fourth quarter,” said Maple Delton Kellogg dropped its KVA opener Valley head coach Chris Ewing. “They stuck Friday against Maple Valley, 56-42. to their goal and achieved it.” Lion junior guard Micah Bromley had a litThe Lions allowed the Panthers just 11 tle wiggle in his step as he backpedalled away points in the opening quarter, and eight in from the three-point line with his tongue both the second and third periods. hanging out. “Bromley and Sam (Benedict) were really Maybe he knew it was the start of some- making it hard on their point guard to get the thing good. He’d just drilled a three-point ball up the court, and to see the court even,” shot to put his Lions up 35-27 21 seconds in Ewing said. “I think Tommy Mudge in the to the fourth quarter. After averaging just over middle kind of made it hard for them to get an ten points a quarter through the first three, the inside game going. Bromley and Benedict, Lions scored 13 points in the first 2:20 of the both of them, have just been all season and all fourth quarter to extend their lead to 45-27. offseason have been determined to be nonThe Lions went 11-of-19 at the free throw stop defenders. I think they showed that line from there to finish off a 56-42 win over today.” the Panthers to open the Kalamazoo Valley The Lions got off to a great start, building Association season. a 17-11 lead in the opening quarter. Delton That big run by the Lions to start the fourth hung around with a solid effort by its defense. quarter included a three by Samuel Benedict, Ewing thought the Panthers’ zone did a good strong right now,” Ewing said. “We’ve been working hard at keeping our fast-paced game. We’re not going to back down. We’re going to pretty much go all game, every game, 100 percent. Even in the fourth quarter we were still giving them full-court pressure, full-court pressure, and I think our depth on our bench outlasted their bench and they just couldn’t keep up anymore.” The Lions followed improved to 2-0 Tuesday by topping visiting Constantine 5543. Maple Valley raced out to a 30-22 lead in the first half. Gonser led the Lions with 19 points. Sam Benedict and Tommy Mudge added nine each. Constantine got 19 points from Payton White and 11 points and five assists from Justin Bontrager. DeltonKellogg’s Zach Leinaar is held up by Maple Valley’s Anthony Mahler as he tries to get to the basket during the fourth quarter Friday night. (Photo by Brett Bremer) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, December 13, 2012 — Page 15 Saxon pressure takes Vikes out of their offense by Brett Bremer Sports Lakewood hit ten threes in its opener and beat Charlotte. The Vikings hit nine threes in their second game of the season, and beat Williamston. In game number three, Hastings’ varsity boys’ basketball team limited the Vikings to three threes and the Saxons handed the Vikings their first loss of the season. Hastings improved to 3-0, and dropped the Vikings to 2-1, with a 50-31 win at Lakewood High School Tuesday. The Vikings knocked down a pair of threepointers in the first quarter, the second of which gave them an 8-6 lead. They didn’t hit their third until just 2:13 remained in the game, and it cut the Saxon lead to 15 at that point. “We really emphasized getting out to them,” said Hastings coach Steve Storrs. “We knew from the stats that they had more threes than they had twos, so we really emphasized The Saxons’ Luke Heide fires a shot up over Lakewood’s David Parks during the first quarter Tuesday night. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The Saxons’ Maxwell Clark (right) pressures Lakewood point guard Kalib McKinney as he brings the ball up the floor during the third quarter of Tuesday’s non-conference contest at Lakewood High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) the first possession of the second half led to a bucket by the Saxons’ Marshall Cherry and then Heide followed that with a three-pointer that pushed their team’s lead to double figures for the first time in the ball game. Cherry had an outstanding offensive night, finishing with 12 points. “He has made huge strides,” Storrs said of Cherry. “Every game he plays he almost doubles his experience at this point because he, except the last two games basically last year, didn’t see a lot of minutes. He was getting in at the end of games and that was it. It was kind of the same way with him his JV and freshman years. So this is his first real game experience.” “You saw tonight he is getting a little more confidence with his moves and he’s doing Vikes win three at Vicksburg tourney Lakewood’s varsity wrestling team opened the 2012-13 season by winning four of the seven duals it wrestled during the first week of action. The Vikings were 3-2 Saturday at the Vicksburg tournament. They beat Hopkins 61-12, Dowagiac 57-18 and Coloma 42-41. The two losses for the Vikings came in close duals. Three Rivers scored a 41-31 win over the Vikings and Vicksburg won on criteria after the two teams were tied 39-39. Lakewood had three wrestlers finsh the day with undefeated records, Jordon Bennett, Markus Temple and Jack Tromp. Tromp is just one of two seniors who are returnees to the Lakewood varsity line-up this winter. The other is 215-pounder Lars Pyrzinski. The Vikings split their two duals on the season’s first night, at Caledonia High School Wednesday. The Vikings fell to the host Scots 40-34 and beat Jenison 39-32. Dominic Solomon at 112 pounds, Jeremy Innes at 140 and David Bibbler at 145 had pins for the Vikings in the loss to the Fighting Scots. Pyrzinski was the lone Vikings above 152 pounds to win against Caledonia. He beat Joel Wenk 5-2 at 215 pounds. Bennett won for the Vikings at 152, 12-6 over the Fighting Scots’ Garrett Hubbell. Lakewood also had Austin Kietzman score an 11-1 major decision over Jordan Steiner at 130 pounds. Caledonia got pins from Matt Christensen BOWLING SCORES Tuesday Mixed Hometown Lumber 41; Hurless Machine Shop 40; Boyce Milk Haulers 39; Barry Co. Red Cross 36.5; J-Bar Antique Tractors 21. High Game - G. Hause 262; Sis 190; M. Snyder 189; D. Benner 187; D. Blakely 184; D. Wilkins 170; C. Featherly 169; N. Boniface 161; B. Smith 156; M. Burd 137; B. Norris 122. High Series - G. Hause 587; Sis 536; M. Snyder 521. Monday Mixerettes Dewey’s Auto Body 38-18; Kent Oil 37.518.5; Dean’s Dolls 34-22; Creekside Growers 26.5-29.5; Nashville Chiropractic 26-30. Good Games & Series: E. Ulrich 168; M. Rodgers 170; V. Carr 178-525; T. Redman 155-402; N. Goggins 161-409; K. Fowler 178. Lakewood Jordon Bennett (top) works his way to a win during Saturday’s tournament at Vicksburg High School. (103 pounds), Noah Williams (119), John Leark (125), Logan DeYoung (160), Jon Hubbell (171) and Zane Gorby (189). Other winners for the Scots were Jake VanderVeen at 285 pounds and Dakota Greig-Berends at 135. Trojan boys fall in their first two home games of the year The Hawks beat the Trojans every which way Friday. Thornapple Kellogg varsity boys’ basketball coach Mike Rynearson said that Forest Hills Eastern hardly ever allowed his team to get its offense running in its 62-47 non-conference win over the Trojans in Middleville. On the other end of the floor, the Hawks pulled down 17 offensive rebounds. “They shut us down on one end and just shot it as many times as they wanted on the other,” Rynearson said. The Hawks got up on the Trojans early, building a 20-6 lead in the opening quarter. They pushed that advantage to 38-19 at the half. Caleb Kigar led the way for the Hawks with 18 points. He had six offensive rebounds and 12 total for the night. Nick Hopkins finished with 14 points and five rebounds and Nate Loree had 12 points. some really good things for us.” Cherry also had a team-high seven rebounds. Michael Eastman chipped in six points, there steals and three assists for the Saxons. Storrs liked the way his team avoided having any kind of a let-down in the second half. Kalib McKinney led Lakewood with nine points. Colin O’Mara finished with seven and Jacob Buehler six. “We have the ability to be a very good team, but we have to go 110 percent every time,” Piercefield said. “We have to have every guy doing their assignment every time. That’s in practice, that’s in the game, all 13 guys in practice have to push each other to get “We never gave up. It wasn’t for a lack of effort. They played hard right until the final horn,” said Rynearson. Louis Koepke hit four threes and led the Trojans with 18 points. Kameryn Kidder finished with ten points and six rebounds for TK. The Trojans are now 1-2 on the season. They fell 87-58 to visiting Gull Lake Tuesday. The Blue Devils scores at least 20 points in each of the first three quarters, leading 41-29 at the break. Dean Kolstad led the way for Gull Lake with 31 points. Odell Miller added 11 and Cooper Quartermaine 12. TK got 17 points from Tommy Hamilton and 12 from Grant Allison. Koepke added nine points and Clay Francisco eight. The Trojans will be at Hamilton Friday. Lakewood was scheduled to open the Capital Area Activities Conference White Division season against Portland last night. The Vikings will be back in action Saturday at Maple Valley’s Jesse Snow Memorial Tournament. Hastings wrestlers win four of five at Greenville Duals Only the hosts beat the Saxons Saturday. Hastings’ varsity wrestling team opened its season with a 4-1 showing at the Greenville Duals. The Yellow Jackets topped the Saxons 50-27, but Hastings was perfect the rest of the day. The Saxons beat Caledonia 37-19, Spring Lake 61-12, Jenison 45-25 and Wyoming 5429. Kenny Cross and Chase Huisman had five wins each on the day for Hastings. Stephen Kendall and Jason Slaughter had four wins each. The Saxon team also had Mitchell Sarhatt, David Hause, Zach Wilcox, Ethan Haywood, Brett Thomas and Joe Siska win three times each. The Saxons opened OK Gold Conference action last night at Wayland, and Saturday will take part in the Coldwater Duals. Senior Citizens Sun Risers 36.5-19.5; Butterfingers 36-20; King Pins 31-25; M&M’s 30-26; Usedtobe #1 27-29; Early Risers 26-30; Three Gals & A Guy 25-31; Ward’s Friends 25-31; Kuempel 23-33; Just Having Fun 20.5-35.5. Women’s good games and series: E. Ulrich 164-471; P. Shellington 137-397; P. Freeman 150-381. Men’s good games and series: R. McDonald 222-614; B. Akers 208; W. Mallekotte 163; G. Forbe 174-451; G. Bennett 155; K. Schantz 178; L. Markley 155-445; J. Grassmyer 200-569. Wed PM Boniface Construction 38-18; Court Side 36-20; Hair Care 36-20; Eye & ENT 29-27; Delton Suds 28-28. Good games & series: B. Hathaway 176; J. Pettengill 125; B. Norris 117; L. Elliston 173; T. Christopher 174; S. Stevens 146-375; A. Tasker 137. Tuesday Trios Washking 45-15; Sam 42-15; Coleman Ins. 33-23; CB’s 33-27; Look Ins. 29-31; Team Turkey 29-31; Lu’s Team 28.5-27.5; Classic Trio 24-36; Blair Landscaping 23.5-36.5; Ghost Team 0-60. High Game - Luanne P. 268; Tammy D. 213; Shirlee V. 199. High series - Luanne P. 615; Shirlee 577; Tammy D. 562. Thurday Majors Red Rockets 35-21; Hastings Bowl 34-22; Pocket Pounders 33-23; Old Men 31.5-24.5; HDR 27.5-28.5; Arens Lawn 27.5-28.5; Muff Divers 25.5-30.5. High Games and Series - C. Wyman 224; J. Haight 200-556; D. Hiar 196-566; R. Furlong 189; J. Gibson 209-505; C. Micel 233-669; L. Bailey 236-609; D. varney 199; B. Taylor 203; J. Barnum 212-602; D. Rose 177-523; M. Miller 172; W. Lydy 181-521; H. Moore 222; M. Davis 247; D. Lambert 211583; R. Guild 234; D. Smith 202; K. Troyer 168; S. Ashley 183. Thursday Angels Riverfront Fin. Ser. 38-14; Moore’s Apts. 34-18; Varney’s Const. 31-21; Hastings Bowl 28.5-19.5; Cathy’s Cut & Curl 26-26; Miller Farm Repair 24.5-23.5; DJ on the Roll 18-34. High Games and Series - J. Myers 162; B. Furlong 120; T. Dickinson 153; B. Brown 143; J. Wood 145; C. Cooper 266-584; A. Moore 175-473; M. Moore 164; N. Taylor 146-419; D. Staines 189-516; A. Castelein 212; K. Shumway 206-513; C. Hooper 142; C. Doornbos 233-609; C. Gdula 156; C. Miller 166; B. Noteboom 167; L. Brandt 172. SAXON WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE Complete online schedule at: www.hassk12.org THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13 4:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:30 pm 5:30 pm 6:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm Boys Girls Boys Girls Girls Boys Girls Fresh. Fresh. Varsity JV MS JV Varsity Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Cheer Basketball Basketball Hopkins HS @ MS Parchment HS @ HS Hopkins HS @ HS Hopkins HS @ MS Wayland MS Hopkins HS @ MS Hopkins HS @ HS WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 19 H H H H A H H 4:15 pm 4:15 pm 5:30 pm 5:30 pm 6:00 pm 6:30 pm Boys Boys Boys Boys Boys Boys 7th B 8th B 8th A 7th A B Team Varsity Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Wrestling Wrestling Comstock Park HS/MS Comstock Park HS/MS Comstock Park HS/MS Comstock Park HS/MS Thornapple-Kellogg HS Thornapple-Kellogg HS H A A H A A THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20 FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14 5:00 pm Boys JV Wrestling Delton Kellogg HS 6:00 pm Girls MS Cheer Caledonia HS A A Times and dates subject to change SATURDAY, DECEMBER 15 TBA Boys Varsity Swimming Raider Sprint Relays @ GR Comm. College 9:00 am Boys Varsity Wrestling Coldwater HS Coldwater Duals A A MONDAY, DECEMBER 17 4:15 pm 4:15 pm 5:30 pm 5:30 pm Boys Boys Boys Boys 8th A 7th A 7th B 8th B Basketball Basketball Basketball Basketball Thornapple-Kellogg MS Thornapple-Kellogg MS Thornapple-Kellogg MS Thornapple-Kellogg MS A H H A TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18 4:00 pm Girls Fresh. Basketball Delton Kellogg HS 5:30 pm Girls JV Basketball Delton Kellogg HS 7:00 pm Girls Varsity Basketball Delton Kellogg HS Thanks to This Week’s Sponsor: H H H Amy Beck, M.D. • Dawn Rosser, M.D. Kathy Carlson, CNP Monday-Friday 8am - 5pm | (269) 818-0070 Creekside Professional Building 1761 West M-43 Highway, Suite #2, Hastings, MI 49058 HASTINGS ATHLETIC BOOSTERS Contact Nancy 945-2742 or hastingsathleticboosters@gmail.com to sponsor the schedule 77573062 The Saxons’ Marshall Cherry (50) battles to secure an offensive rebound during the first quarter Tuesday at Lakewood High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) getting out to the shooters and making them put it on the ground.” Hastings’ pressure on the Viking guards, led by Saxons Maxwell Clark and Ian Beck, didn’t just limit the Vikings’ threes it limited the offense overall. “Their pressure was forcing us out past the three-point line,” Lakewood coach Wayne Piercefield said. “We weren’t even getting any good looks. We weren’t setting solid screens and getting our teammates open. Once we got down we had a few guys try and do it themselves, and that doesn’t work.” Luke Heide hit five threes himself, and led his team with 19 points. The Saxon offense did slow down a bit with him on the bench in some foul trouble late in the first half, but a Viking turnover on better. It didn’t happen yesterday and then it carried over to today.” Hastings scored its second win of the season Friday, topping Alma 50-44 on the road. The Saxons got off to a slow start after a long bus-trip, scoring just two points in the opening quarter, but they only allowed six. “We had really good ball pressure again, and we turned them over a lot, which is what really got us going in that game,” Storrs said. Clark and Heide led the way for the Saxons with 17 points each. Clark hit three threes and Heide was 10-of-12 from the free throw line. Eastman added nine points and Cherry had seven points and ten rebounds. Alma got 14 points from Kyle Slagell, nine from Tim DeJong and seven from Curtis Doyle. �Page 16 — Thursday, December 13, 2012 — The Hastings Banner HHS beats one county foe, gets another Tuesday by Brett Bremer Sports Editor One of the Saxons’ big goals this season is to prove they have the best team in Barry County. The first step towards that goal was completed Tuesday. Hastings’ varsity girls’ basketball team improved to 3-2 on the season with a 51-47 victory over visiting Lakewood. The Saxons will face their second Barry County rival Tuesday when they host Delton Kellogg, then there will be two meetings with Thornapple Kellogg in OK Gold Conference action during the new year. In what Hastings head coach Andrew Mains called a “back and forth” game, the Saxons led throughout. It wasn’t until Grace Bosma hit the front end of a one-and-one at the foul-line in the final seconds to put her team up four that the Saxons could really feel comfortable. “Hastings was ready to play and we were not,” said Lakewood head coach Denny Frost. “You have to give the Hastings girls a lot of credit. They wanted this game more then we did. Our first road game and we didn't come out with the energy to play at the defensive end. We didn’t recognize the shooters and our interior defense gave up some easy baskets.” One shooter the Vikings couldn’t find was Taylor Carter. She led the Saxons with 23 points. She hit three threes in the game, and was 4-of-5 at the free throw line. Erin Gray had nine points and six rebounds for the Saxons, and Maddie Dailey added seven points. Lakewood got 15 points, 15 rebounds and two steals from Emily Kutch. Mains said his team did a great job of slowing down Kutch until the fourth quarter. Madison McLean, who Frost said added some great minutes off the bench, chipped in eight points and Broke Wieland six points and seven steals for Lakewood. “We did a nice job of getting back into a position to tie the game, but when you exert that much energy to come from behind, it is hard to make the plays on the offensive end,” Frost said. Hammerhead Swim Club is looking for new swimmers The Hastings Hammerhead Swim Club is looking for kids from the ages of 8 to 18 who love to swim. The Hammerhead Swim Club practices at the Hastings community pool every Monday and Wednesday night. The swim club is open to anyone who loves to swim and would like to be part of a swim team. The club includes swimmers from Hastings, Middleville, Wayland, Delton and other surrounding communities. The club runs two practices each evening, divided by age and ability. The club does travel to and host meets, but participation in those meets is optional. “Our goal is to have fun and to teach kids how to swim better and to swim competitively if they would like,” said Mike Schipper. New swimmers will be allowed to swim for a week without having to pay club fees to see if they like it. If you have any questions or would like more information please feel free to the club’s webpage at www.hammerheadswimclub.weebly.com or email team administrator Kim Kroells at hastingshammerheads@yahoo.com. The Saxons’ Taylor Carter (1) flips a shot up over Lakewood guard Brooke Wieland (10) during Tuesday’s contest at Hastings High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) “I am happy for the Hastings kids, they have worked hard the last couple of years without a lot of success, and they came ready to compete. Coach Mains did a nice job and had his kids ready to play.” The Saxons were ready Friday too, knocking off visiting Reeths-Puffer 55-48. Hastings ran out to a 20-9 lead in the opening quarter, and pushed that edge to 34-20 by the half. Hastings’ Erin Gray is hit across the arm by Lakewood’s Emily Kutch as she tries to put a shot up during Tuesday night’s non-conference contest. (Photo by Perry Hardin) The Rockets did respond to make it a game, outscoring the Saxons 19-7 in the fourth quarter. Taylor Carter led Hastings with 24 points. Dailey added 15 and Grace Meade ten. Nikki Redman shut down the Rockets’ top scorer, holding her to just two buckets. She averaged 18 points coming into the contest. Kalisa Williams led the Rockets with 12 points. Lakewood uses threes to beat Hornet boys in league opener Saxons honored for sportsmanship New varsity girls’ basketball coach Andrew Mains (center right) accepts a banner honoring the 2011-12 Hastings varsity girls’ basketball team as one of the National Guard’s and Basketball Coaches Association of Michigan’s Sportsmanship Award winners during Tuesday night’s contest with Lakewood at Hastings High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Lakewood varsity boys’ basketball team opened Capital Area Activities Conference White Division play Friday with a 57-51 win over visiting Williamston. Lakewood had another big night behind the three-point line, knocking down 9-of-23 attempts. Alex Potter hit two and finished with a game-high 17 points. Colin O’Mara drilled four threes and had 14 points for the Vikings. The Vikings started a bit slow, falling behind by eight points in the opening quarter, but picked things up to take a 35-28 lead into the half. Williamston took the lead in the third quarter, as the Vikings offense got a bit stagnant, but O’Mara hit a big three in the final seconds of the period to tie the game up at 4242. The Vikings showed some big improvement at the foul-line, holding off the Hornets by going 12-of-14 at the line in the fourth quarter and 18-for-23 overall. It wasn’t just solid shooting, but great defense that earned the Vikings the win. Lakewood head coach Wayne Piercefield was very pleased with his front-line players Luke Richmond and Dylan Durkee. Durkee had four points and Richmond none, but the defense they played on the Hornet’s 6-8 and 6-7 post players was tremendous. “(Richmond) fronted the post extremely well and didn’t let them catch it in the post,” said Piercefield. “(Durkee) blocked his guy out better than anybody on the floor,” Piercefield said. “He wasn’t getting any rebounds, but his guy wasn’t getting them either.” Jacob Buehler led the Vikings’ charge at the foul-line in the fourth quarter, going 7-of8 himself. He finished with 12 points as well as three steals. Kalib McKinney had five assists to go with six points. O’Mara had a team-high six rebounds. The Vikings were outrebounded by the Hornets 33-21 in the game. Williamston was led by Tom Cotter’s 16 points. Matt Meranda added ten and Riley Lewis eight. The Vikings fell at home Tuesday against Hastings in a non-conference contest, and will return to action Friday with a league match-up against Portland. Maple Valley wrestlers split their first two duals at Bath The Lions aren’t real experienced, with eight of the 21 wrestlers new to the varsity, but they’re off to a good start anyway. Maple Valley’s varsity wrestling team opened the season with a 1-1 night at Bath Wednesday. The Lions fell to Bath 42-31, but followed that up with a 42-31 win over Haslett. Maple Valley is led by junior Austin Davis, who won the 112-pound championship in the Kalamazoo Valley Association last year, and was a regional qualifier. Davis scored two pins Wednesday at 125 pounds, sticking Bath’s Rey Song in 1 minute 51 seconds and Haslett’s Jeff Fryer in 2:31. The Lions have a little bit of experience in the lightweights, with Davis, Sam Bonney, and Kodee Crouch all back. In the middle and upper weights returnees include Zach Pixley, Rodney Bement, Travis Franks and Nick Whitaker. Crouch, Bonney, Davis, Bement and Zackary Rosenberger all had two wins at Wednesday’s meet for the Lions. Crouch at 112 pounds and Bonney at 119 had forfeit wins over Haslett, and big wins against Bath. Crouch beat Bath’s Elliott Lip 13-2. Bonney pinned Bath’s Bonnie Baker in 54 seconds. Bement and Rosenberger had two pins each. At 152 pounds, Bement pinned Bath’s Sawyer Lucas in 1:00 and Haslett’s Bruce Gieson in 2:54. Rosenberger stuck Bath’s Caleb Meyers in :57 and Haslett’s Josh Palmer in 2:28. Pixley, Matt Reid and Dan Langman also had wins for the Lions on the night. The Lions were scheduled to go to Calvin Christian last night to take on the Squires and the West Ottawa Panthers. They’ll be in Portland for a tournament Saturday. Vikings will honor newest collegiate All-American Friday The Lakewood Athletic Association and Lakewood Athletic Department will be honoring Melanie Forman on Friday during halftime of the varsity girls’ basketball game against Portland. Forman was selected to the 2011 NAIA Volleyball All-American Third Team at the conclusion of her senior year. While at Indiana Tech University she set the school record for assists with 4,885 and was also named the 2011 WHAC Setter of the Year. A plaque featuring Forman and her accomplishments will be presented to her, courtesy of the Lakewood Athletic Association. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/539/HastingsBanner_2012-12-27.pdf 9be6c6f2f87bd7cc9e648253a314f2a8 PDF Text Text Pastor shares view on tragedy A special wish list for 2012 TK takes down Hastings in early conference clash See Story on Page 11 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 12 THE HASTINGS VOLUME 159, No. 51 NEWS BRIEFS Ball drop celebration will welcome in 2013 Live music, light displays, ice sculptures, face painting and precisely timed pyrotechnics will highlight the fourth annual New Year’s Eve Ball Drop and Family Festival in downtown Hastings Monday, beginning at 9 p.m. The intersection of State and Jefferson streets will be closed to traffic as disc jockey Jon Anderson and the Thornapple Jazz Orchestra keep the festivities hopping until the magic moment when Mayor Frank Campbell leads the crowd in counting down the closing moments of 2012. A newly constructed and lighting engineered New Year’s ball will again drop from atop the Walldorff Brewpub and Bistro into a fantastic light and sound display that will kick off the new year. A rousing version of “Auld Lang Syne,” more music by the jazz orchestra, and a last round of hot chocolate will complete 2013’s first, big celebration in Hastings. New year begins with nature hike New Year’s revelers may wish to keep the excitement of 2013 going by participating in the second annual New Year’s Day Hike at the Yankee Springs Recreation Area. Walks guided by park staff and members of the North Country Trail Association will take hikers on scenic two- or four-mile legs through some of the prettiest back areas of Yankee Springs. The event will begin with coffee and cocoa Tuesday at 11 a.m. at the winter sports parking area at 10060 Gun Lake Road. The first two-mile leg will stop at the Yankee Springs Inn Historic Site on Yankee Springs Road for more hot beverages. Rides back to the parking area will be available for two-milers, those moving on to complete the fourmile loop will receive a special commemorative gift. For more information, call park headquarters, 269-795-9081. GET MORE LOCAL NEWS! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. BANNER Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75¢ Thursday, December 27, 2012 Fracking top local story of 2012 As with most, 2012 was a year of contention and controversy, of hope and progress. Being a part of it provided a unique perspective for the Banner’s news staff which, as each year comes to a close, sits down to select the top ten stories that impacted the Barry County area the most. There was plenty of contention as fracking, our top vote getting story subject indicated. There was controversy, too, with the Hastings Area Schools filing a plan with the state a to operate on a deficit budget, the second highest vote-getter amongst our staff. But there was also hope and progress in the year just passed, chief being the pieces that polled third in our votes that covered the major bridge construction that Hastings enduring throughout the summer and much of the fall. There were also the wonderful stories chronicling the hope that came with Bradford White’s opening of the International Technical Excellence Center, a story that finished sixth in our poll of news staffers and the promise that the new educational program in Maple Valley brought that came with increased enrollment and even the possibility of reopening a shuttered school, a story which finished ninth on our list. There was also compelling news from the courts where County Prosecutor Tom Evans’ filing practices were publicly questioned by a defense attorney and a judge, a story that was given fifth place among our top ten newsmakers. The court saga of convicted criminal sex offender Michael Terpening wound itself through a variety of twists and turns and took ninth on our list. Animals occupied a lot of our readers’ interest and attention. As the county settled its difference over animal control and shelter operations, a story that took seventh place, all of Barry County became concerned about the mysterious viral death of deer, a ninth place story finisher, and that may have been due to the story that finished fifth, our equally mysterious weather that caused drought and loss of crops throughout the county. It was a year of concern, interest, and entertainment. Our hope was that it was also a year in which our readers became informed, engaged and active. In order, a synopsis of the top ten stories we tracked in 2012: 1. Fracking and leasing of mineral rights touched off protesters and supporters The process known colloquially as fracking, but more technically as horizontal hydraulic fracturing, and the auction on May 8, 2012 by the state of leases on 23,000 acres of state-owned lands in Barry County led to protests by opponents at various public and private meetings beginning in the spring and continuing throughout the summer of 2012. Supporters say that the process provides new jobs and more gas and oil plus revenues to the state and owners of private lands. They maintain that Michigan's stringent environmental regulations and the level of supervision by the state are more than adequate to provide appropriate environmental protection. There is also the issue of the rights of private property owners to derive income from their property. Opponents of the process say the risk is too high for any perceived benefits. The jobs are temporary; when the well has been exhausted, it is closed down and the jobs go away. Contamination of aquifers, air, and soil would lead to major health issues. A major source of frustration for opponents was discovering that local governments including county governments were barred from using zoning regulations to prohibit drilling. The largest lake in the county, Gun Lake, is located principally in Yankee Springs and Orangeville Townships. Tourism is the major source of income for many businesses. Orangeville is also the site of Fish Lake, all of whose land area has been leased. Yankee Springs State Park with almost a million visitors a summer also contributes heavily to the local economy. The single largest public meeting on the subject was held by the Pierce Cedar Creek Institute. The institute's mission, according to executive director Michelle Skedgell, was to provide information to residents about what leases meant and what rights property owners The expansion at Bradford White headquarters in Middleville and opening of the company’s International Technical Excellence Center was among the Banner’s top stories. (Photo by Julie Makarewicz) have when they are approached by a land agent. The meeting also dealt with the need for federal regulation. Currently, the chemicals used by well drillers are exempt from the Clean Water and Clean Air Acts. The federal Environmental Protection Agency is not expected to issue regulations until sometime in 2015. 2. Hastings Area Schools approves deficit budget/submits deficit reduction plan to state In June, the Hastings Area Schools Board of Education approved a deficit budget for the 2012-13 school year and submitted a deficit reduction plan to the State of Michigan, joining 50 other school districts across the state of Michigan that are also operating on a deficit budget. The board’s original budget for the 2011-12 school year projected an ending fund balance of $312,886. However, by the board’s June 18, meeting the projection had changed and the district was expected to end the year with a $430,797 deficit, which is why the board of education unanimously approved a deficitreduction plan. The Michigan Department of Education received and approved the deficit reduction plan. However, things have not been going exactly as the board of education planned. See TOP STORIES, page 2 Honors, contracts and final numbers conclude 2012 business for county board by Doug VanderLaan Editor Wrapping up business for 2012 took a little longer than Barry County commissioners anticipated Wednesday morning since the start of the year’s final meeting had to be delayed while awaiting a quorum of the eight-member board. Sardonic applause greeted the arrival of Commissioner Ben Geiger minutes after the meeting’s scheduled 9 a.m. start, and the five presiding commissioners quickly moved through an agenda highlighted by a resolution to honor the service of departing County Prosecutor Tom Evans. Reading from the resolution that capped Evans’ career, beginning with his stint as an assistant prosecutor in 2001, his first chief prosecutor’s position in Montmorency County, and then his return to Barry County as a chief assistant, an appointed, and then an elected chief prosecutor, Commission Chair Craig Stolsonburg noted some of Evans’ memorable accomplishments. “Recognizing the anger and confusion of crime victims, he implemented the concept of vertical prosecution with one case, one prosecutor,” read Stolsonburg, who also noted Evans’ establishment of diversion programs, allowing some defendants a second chance. “[He] received the 2012 David M. Shieber Life Saver Award presented by the Michigan State Organization of Mothers Against Drunk Driving for prosecution of drunk drivers and providing justice for drunk driving victims, said Stolsonburg who concluded, “the Barry County Board of Commissioners, on behalf of the citizens, extends a sincere thank you to Thomas E. Evans for his years of leadership and dedicated service.” Evans will be replaced by Julie Nakfoor Pratt, elected in November to the prosecutor’s position. In other business, the board approved: • A year-end budget amendment reflecting several adjustments to revenue and expenditure estimates made earlier in the year and previous to actual budget movements, allowing more accurate estimating at year end. • A contract agreement with Professional Benefits Services Inc. until Dec. 31, 2013, to provide short-term disability administration for Barry County employees. • The 2013 Barry County Annual Work County Prosecutor Tom Evans was honored by the Barry County Board of Commissioners and county citizens Wednesday for his accomplishments and contributions. Plan for MSU-Extension services, including one full-time clerical staff for the Extension Office, one half-time 4-H program coordinator, with an additional half-time 4-H program coordinator contingent upon continued United Way support at $27,500. • An agreement for airport management services between the county, the City of Hastings and the Barry County Airport Commission with Mark Noteboom through Dec. 31, 2014. • Transfers and disbursements in the amount of $91,242 and an authorization for auditors to transfer surplus funds from various 2012 county department budgets to the following internal service funds: vehicle replacement, data processing and building rehabilitation. The new 2013 county board will hold its first meeting Wednesday, Jan. 2, at 10 a.m. in the board chambers. An organizational meeting to elect officers and make committee assignments for the new board will precede a committee-of-the-whole meeting. The new commission will be reduced to seven members. Newly elected members Jim DeYoung, Jim Dull Jon Smelker and Joyce Snow will be joining incumbent commissioners Geiger, Stolsonburg and Howard “Hoot” Gibson. �Page 2 — Thursday, December 27, 2012 — The Hastings Banner TOP STORIES, continued from page 1 The 2011-12 school year ended June 31, 2012 with the district $622,607 in the red. This year’s budget is $3.2 million less than in 2011-12, however, the district hasn’t realized the savings in wages and compensation that it had hoped to gain through contract negotiations with the Hastings Education Association. Negotiations stalled in and were turned over to the state for fact finding in November, when the board and HEA could not reach and agreement as to whether the proposed six percent pay increase should be permanent, as the board proposed, or a temporary one-year reduction which could be renewed if necessary, as the HEA desired. The deficit reduction plan presented by Hastings Area School’s financial consultant Don Sovey and approved by the board in June called for $1.6 million in compensation and position reductions starting with the 2012-13 fiscal year, the proposal the board approved Monday starts with $1,386,463 for 2012-13, increases to $1.5 million for 2013-14 and tops out at $1.6 million for the 2014-15 fiscal year. “I think these budgets have been combed over and combed over so much that all the where further reductions could come,” said Sovey. “So, it comes down to compensation and positions.” Sovey explained during the hearing that districts spend 85 percent of their budgets on wages and benefits. In an interview Dec. 14, Hastings Area Schools Director of Business Services Tim Berlin said that, because the board has not been able to come to an agreement with the HEA, the projected ending fund balance of $1,097,642 on June 13, 2013, would be reduced to anticipate an ending fund balance of $858,887. 3. Bridge construction The Thornapple River waters passing through Hastings weren’t as troubled as the two city bridges that pass over them in 2012. Pressing city leaders into pulling logistical magic out of a hat, the Michigan Department of Transportation scheduled reconstruction of both the Michigan Avenue bridge and the South Broadway bridge for 2012. In a series of articles and work progress photographs, the Banner followed what was As of the wee hours of July 4, when this photo was taken, the Michigan Avenue bridge project was on schedule to open Aug. 10. It didn’t open until Aug. 22 just before Summerfest. Working at night is required during the hot summer months to aid in the correct curing of the bridge surface cement. Michigan Avenue was closed for nearly six months. The new bridge, which came with a $2.3 million price tag, is the fourth major structure to cross the Thornaple River at that site dating back to 1886. 2012 was the first full year of a special page in the Banner that featured photos of Barry County taken by readers or newsroom staff. Among the many featured photos was this one by Jeff Baurs, taken at Prairieville Township Park on the north side of Gull Lake. He captured streaks of lightning as they illuminated the sky Thursday evening, May 3. Bridge construction worker Miguel Romarez of Lansing (front, center) who was pulled from the Thornapple River and resuscitated in August is joined by some of his rescuers at a Hastings City Council meeting in October (front row, from left) Rob Neil, Bill Belson, Roger Caris, Joe Huebner, Rick Krouse, (back) Joe Robertson, Rick Hilton, Cory Lutig, Cleon Brown and Bruce Coenen. Shortly before noon Friday, Aug. 31, Romarez stepped into a deep hole in the bed of the Thornapple River while retrieving some painting equipment under the new Michigan Avenue bridge. The hip waders worn by the 57-year old Lansing man filled with water, and he was pulled under and downstream. After five minutes under water, his lifeless body was pulled out of the river about 100 feet downstream. Rescuers managed to resuscitate Romarez after about 20 minutes. He was taken away by helicopter but was able to return in October to thank his rescuers. The Gus Macker 3-on-3 basketball tournament swished into town the last weekend in June, bringing with it fans and players from across the state. Teams of all ages endured the 90-plus-degree temperatures for their chance to compete. Here, a player is one of many competing for the $500 slam-dunk prize in the shadow of the Barry County Courthouse. Hastings was later named the 2012 Gus Macker Rookie Community of the Year, and plans are already underway to make next year’s event bigger and better. (Photo courtesy of Rose Hendershot) The Thornapple River Expedition heads under the McKeown Street Bridge near Thornapple Manor Wednesday morning, Aug. 8, when nearly 100 canoes and kayaks make the journey by river from Charlton Park to Tyden Park. The paddlers began their sixday, 67-mile excursion from the Thornapple’s headwaters, east of Vermontville, to its merger with the Grand River in Ada. The main goal of the first Thornapple River Expedition was to bring awareness of the natural resource to residents of Barry County and beyond. YMCA camp counselors posing after participating in the inaugural Dirty Dozen are (from left) Peter Beck, Matt Johnson, Miguel Martinez, Dexx VanHouten, Ian Beck, John James and Matt Cathcart. More than 350 participants braved the chilly weather, the warming waters of the 45-foot long super slide and 11 muddy obstacles just to say they took part in the Dirty Dozen event Oct. 28 organized by Pennock Health Services to benefit Barry County United Way’s Live United Fund drive. (Photo courtesy of Jon Anderson). other areas have been reduced, I don’t know likely the biggest disruption of traffic in Hastings history. The $2.3 million Michigan Ave. project began on March 5 and initially used the fourlane bridge on Broadway as one temporary detour. However, when reconstruction of the Broadway bridge commenced on April 16, the reduction of traffic from four lanes to two caused, at times, massive backups but also produced wholesale rescheduling of household errands, school pickups and dropoffs, and personal tactical traffic planning. City leaders installed signaled intersections and timing-adjusted traffic lights based on anticipated traffic flow to manage backup and to allow businesses along the Broadway corridor to remain open throughout the project. The work drew the fascinated attention of hundreds of onlookers through the summer, especially when eight 100,000-pound concrete box beams were placed across the span on Michigan Ave. to form the deck of the new bridge. Though not commonplace, complications did cause some increased frustration and delay. In June, a portion of the city’s main intersection at State Street was closed for two weeks for storm sewer work and to allow telecommunication cables to be laid under the street. Underground utility work also produced delays though workers used evenings and Saturdays to move back to a schedule that eventually brought a ribbon cutting opening on Aug. 22 -- eight days ahead of the timetable. The Broadway bridge was part of the larger M-43 improvement project which transitioned the four-lane city thoroughfare to a two-lane route with a center turn lane throughout its span from State St. to the north city limits near Indian Hills Drive. As residents and travelers welcomed the return to efficient transport, the summer construction headache brought some heart-warming stories, too. In August, Davis Construction worker Miguel Romarez stepped into a deep hold while retrieving painting equipment under the Michigan Ave. bridge. His lifeless body was found 100 feet downstream and he was flown by helicopter to Bronson Hospital. Two months later, Romarez returned to Hastings and, at a City Council meeting, offered his thanks to the community for his miraculous rescue and full recovery. 4. Prosecutor’s document filing practice in question Continued next page �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, December 27, 2012 — Page 3 The north/south arteries through Hastings saw severe clogging after demolition of the Michigan Avenue bridge began in February, followed by repair work that led to lane reduction on the Broadway bridge in mid-April. Here, drivers get their first dose of congestion Wednesday, April 18, as north/south traffic on Broadway and Michigan is funneled down to two lanes. (Photo by Sandra Ponsetto) TOP STORIES, continued from previous page Diann Lemmen of Holland works on a painting of a pond with a group of whitebarked trees when the Plein Air Artists of West Michigan are invited by the Cary family and the Southwest Michigan Land Conservancy to use the Cary farm, next to Hastings High School, for an outdoor painting expedition April 14. The painters arrived prepared for forecasted rain but were graced with only gray skies and hints of sunshine throughout the day. Nearby, high school athletic competitions were taking place, including track, baseball and softball. (Photo by David DeDecker) One of the most talked about issues early in the year, certainly on the Banner’s “Letters to the Editor” page, occurred when the Barry County Prosecutor’s Office was taken to task The battles were heated, but the woolen uniforms were even hotter when Historic Charlton Park hosted nearly 700 reanactors for the Civil War Muster July 21 and 22. More than 1,000 spectators sought shady spots where they could watch history from 150 years ago come to life. (Photo by David DeDecker) Grafitti artist Sam deBourbon of Lansing works on the large installation on the fence of 1st Ward Park in Hastings. deBourbon was a visiting artist during the first week of Art Park, a four-week handson art program sponsored by the Thoranpple Arts Council, Barry Community Foundation and the City of Hastings. (Photo by Sandra Ponsetto) Emerald ash borers continue to kill off ash trees throughout the county. Here, a design left by the borers is exposed after bark falls from a tree in Tyden Park in Hastings. City parks lost more than 60 trees to the small green bugs. About a dozen trees at Fish Hatchery Park, 10 at Bob King Park and 42 ash trees at Tyden Park were removed during the year. by defense attorney David Gilbert. Gilbert accused the Prosecutor of deliberately filing court documents late. The public forum which followed Gilbert’s accusations may well have cost Prosecutor Tom Evans his re-election and propelled Gilbert to his recently elected position of county prosecutor for Calhoun County. A motion was made by Gilbert on Jan. 11 to strike the witness list and dismiss a criminal sexual conduct case, due to late filings of paperwork by the office of Barry County Prosecutor Tom Evans. Judge Amy McDowell heard the motion. Gilbert said he found it hard to believe the prosecution was not aware they were not complying on time. In one of Gilbert’s legal briefs he states fairness requires that to convict someone of breaking the law, the law should be followed by those enforcing it. Evans address the judge by contending, “Your Honor... certainly in a world where many of the things plead at pre-trial, it became a customary practice in this court, to not always attach a list.” McDowell said, “You mean you made it a practice not to attach a list?” “Your Honor, I’ve never, in the 10 years I have been here,” said Evans. “I believe I have shown, number one, Good Cause. As the court is aware that was a very hectic period, and I was doing motions and things on that very case. Gilbert then asked the Prosecutor, “How do I prepare for a case when you wait until the last minute to give me things that should have been given to me months before?” After defense and prosecution had presented their arguments to the court, Judge McDowell replied. McDowell said, looking at the documents, the defense’s request for a response to his motion was also not received within the proper time. “That was not complied with either,” she said. “It certainly seems like there is a history. That was not complied with and neither were several other things here. However, striking the list of witnesses is a very severe sanction. And, there is a long list [of witnesses] here. “I don’t find there is good cause, I can tell you that. Lack of planning is not good cause . . . You have four assistants, Mr. Evans, to help you. This seems to be a chronic problem. You have to understand the position Mr. Gilbert is in. I understand you were ill and the Christmas holiday, but you do have four people to help you. That’s why they are there, so you don’t have to take it all on yourself. But, that’s your decision. “Mr. Gilbert, because it is a very heavy A looming drought was the talk in town and on the farm in June and July, when continuous temperature readings above 90 degrees and weeks without rain caused crops in area fields to wither and curl. Here, Tim Spitzley of Lake Odessa examines a field of corn in mid-July. Rain began to fall in late July and early August, just in time to salvage this year’s field crops at slightly less than average yields. Farther south, however, in Indiana and even closer, in Branch and St. Joseph counties, redeeming rains arrived too late. After a week of serious competing in oppressive heat, 4-H members compete in the Great 4-H Race the final day of the Barry County Fair July 23. (Photo by Julie Makarewicz) sanction to have a witness list stricken and because it was not overly prejudicial to your client, the court is denying your motion to strike the witness list as well as dismissing the case.” A fish story that had sat quietly for decades grew a little bigger after the Michigan Department of Natural Resources confirmed that the nearly 70year-old state flathead catfish record had been broken. The late Elmer Rayner of Hastings had held the record since 1943. He landed a 47.5-pound catfish on the Maple River in Ionia County, using a bamboo pole. Readers then brought in copies of the photo, one of the photos was labeled “Ration Stretcher.” 5. Weather In a year of extreme high temperatures, rainfall, though sporadic, ended up only about three inches less than normal, according to Dave McIntyre and the National Climatological Hastings Weather Station. The irregular rainfall, coupled with the extreme heat, however, meant the water evaporated before it could get into the ground, leaving the area drier than normal. The winter of 2011-12 saw only 48 inches of snow, compared to a normal 70 inches for the area. The thermometer registered below zero only one day in 2012. Jan. 20, the temperature register just 1 degree below zero. March was warmer than usual, with five days of 80 degrees or above temperatures, the warmest being March 21 at 87 degrees. The month also saw many days in the mid- to upper 70s. On May 28, temperatures reached 91 degrees, the first 90-plus-degree day recorded for the year — but it wouldn’t be the last. June saw four days of 90 or above temperatures, with a high reaching 96 degrees June 28. Temperatures soared even higher in July, with 17 days of above 90 degrees. July 6, the highest temperature of the year was reached with thermometers topping out 102 degrees. July 5 saw a temperature of 100 degrees. August had only six days of above-90 degree temperatures, reaching a high early with 95 See TOP STORIES, pg. 14 �Page 4 — Thursday, December 27, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? My special list for 2012 Just enough Snow fell briefly Monday afternoon and again during the night Tuesday, bringing sort of a white Christmas to area residents. Most of the snow was gone by late afternoon Christmas day, but a light dusting remained on the bank of the Thornapple River in Tyden Park in Hastings, pictured here. We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Please include information such as where and when the photo was taken, who took the photo, and other relevant or anecdotal information. Do you know? Steppin’ up Do you recognize this man? Do you have any idea why he is in a room with four ladders? What can you tell us about this photo? The Banner archives have numerous photographs from the middle of the past century that have no date, names or other information. We’re hoping readers can help us identify the people in the photos and provide a little more information about the event to reunite the photos with their original clippings or identify photos that may never have been used. If you’re able to help tell this photograph’s story, we want to hear from you. Mail information to Attn: Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; email news@j-adgraphics.com; or call 269-9459554. Last week’s photo caught the attention of Pattie Lundquist and her sister Kristine (Gardner) Hanford, the latter of whom was the baby sister in the photograph. Hanford was the New Year’s baby for Barry County in 1949. The photo, which ran in the Dec. 29, 1949, Banner, was a follow-up on the nearly 1-year-old reigning baby. Hanford, who still lives in Hastings, was excited to see the photo and said she couldn’t resist sharing the original clipping, which reads, in part: What do you “Curiosity — Charming Miss Kristine Anne Gardner, Barry County’s New Year’s baby of 1949, peers questioningly at her first Christmas tree put up by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Willard Gardner, in the living room of their home a mile east of the McOmber school [on Brogan Road near M37]. Kristine is pictured with her half-brother, Donnie [Stutz], who is as proud of the little Miss as her parents.” think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the questions posed each week by accessing our website www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported the following week, along with a new question. Last week’s question: After the tragedy in Connecticut, Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder Tuesday vetoed a gun law that would have eliminated many gun-free zones. Should concealed weapons be allowed in hospitals, day care centers, churches, sports arenas and schools? 20% 80% Yes No For this week: As the ball drops on 2013, do you believe the new year will offer you more promise than 2012? q q Yes No Now that Santa’s been down the chimney, the presents are opened, and, hopefully, everyone’s had a blessed Christmas, it is time to turn our attention to a new year and reflect on the one nearly passed. The year 2012 will be one for the history books, due, in no small part, to the economy about which experts remain cautiously optimistic as it shows signs of getting better. At the same time, we’re all watching Congress to see how elected officials handle the ongoing “fiscal cliff” talks. Over the weekend, my wife and I watched Steven Spielberg’s movie presentation of Abraham Lincoln which focuses on the month of January 1865 and the passage of the 13th Amendment to the Constitution that proposed the elimination of slavery. The movie shows how Lincoln was engaged in day-to-day negotiations trying to get enough votes to pass the amendment and how he walked a tightrope between ending slavery and holding the Union together before the Confederacy surrendered. “I am a firm believer in the people,” said Lincoln. “If given the truth, they can be depended upon to meet any national crisis. The great point is to bring them the real facts.” As I come to my annual year-end awards in which I like to review some of 2012’s facts and poke a little fun at some community leaders, Washington, D.C., might be a good place to start the giftgiving this year. Remember, though, I don’t have enough time and space to recognize everyone on my list and my effort are good-intentioned. Keep Oscar Wilde’s comment in mind that “there is only one thing in the world worse than being talked about, and this is not being talked about.” So here we go with out annual farewell gifts for 2012: To President Barack Obama: Movie passes to “Lincoln,” to learn how a president was able to forge an agreement that would end a war, end slavery and bring the nation together. To the 545 men and women responsible for America’s woes: A crystal ball to view the future and to see the impact that 100 senators, 435 congressmen, nine Supreme Court justices and one president have on domestic problems that plague this country. To local lawmakers: The Cannonball Award to Rep. Michael Callton, Sen. Rick Jones and Lt. Governor Brian Calley for jumping into a pool of cold water at the Special Olympics fundraiser — and an invitation to run through the new spray park in downtown Hastings when its finished next year. To Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf: A super-size roll of heavy-duty garbage bags for his next “special investigation.” In addition, he will receive the newly released book, What is an Open Meeting? To County Prosecutor Tom Evans: A copy of the book from the Dummies series, written by Judge Amy McDowell, How to File Documents on Time. To Nashville’s Putnam District Library: Multiple copies of the best-seller, How to Win Friends and Influence People, by Dale Carnegie and check-out reservation for the three Nashville village council trustees who resigned, the village president who was arrested, and the chief of police who tried to resign. To newly elected Yankee Springs Township Supervisor Mark Englerth: A giant glass of fracking fluid to quench his thirst when he holds his next “special private ‘open’ meeting.” To Hastings High School teacher Ed Domke: The Pitchfork Award for his hard work and support for the welding program for students and adults at the high school, as well as other industrial arts classes. To Bonnie Hildreth, president of the Barry Community Foundation: The New Idea Club Award for bringing community organizations together under one roof and preserving one of Hastings’ oldest churches. (The New Idea Club was organized by Ida McCoy in 1925 to acknowledge good deeds in our community.) To Carl Schoessel: A three-dimensional glass ball with his image printed in full color to be used every year during the city’s annual New Year’s Ball Drop. To Barry County Board Chairman Craig Stolsonburg: The latest parliamentary procedure rule book written by former county commissioner Bob Houtman — after all, “it’s going to be a rough two years.” To Commissioner Howard “Hoot” Gibson: A Taser to protect himself in the event that he’s attacked during a county board meeting. To former commissioner Jeff Van Norwick: A pitchfork to go with his bib overalls, so, in retirement, he can keep prodding county government to stay on track. To County Commissioner Ben Geiger: Platform shoes so he won’t have to look up to any of his colleagues in 2013. To former commissioner Dan Parker: His own school bus, so he’ll always have reason to host his special holiday parties for TK school bus drivers. To former commissioner Joe Lyons: Season basketball tickets to the University of Michigan — since his MSU Spartans look to be tripping up. To County Administrator Michael Brown: A unicycle, an umbrella and a tightrope — to show commissioners it’s not just budgets that he balances. To Hastings Superintendent Todd Geerlings: The latest edition of Negotiating Made Easy written by the late Richard Guenther. To Valerie Byrnes, Barry Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development president: A limo and a cigar ... like all basketball stars get when they win an award like the Gus Macker Rookie Community of the Year honor. To Don Haney, Thornapple Manor administrator: Bonus pay for teaching state inspectors how to better understand the use of computers so they know good administrative management when they see it. For Hastings Mayor Frank Campbell: A copy of the hit rerun “Hastings Mayor, Again.” For Hastings City Manager Jeff Mansfield: A copy of the best-selling book written by Gov. Rick Snyder, How I Got My Own New Bridge. To Barry Intermediate School District Superintendent Jeff Jennette: A box of invitations for state education leaders inviting them to a forum to be held in Hastings titled “Progressive Education Programs Initiated in Barry County.” To Hastings Women’s Club president Donna Brown: A new driver’s license with a birthdate showing she still can’t be eligible for the COA Senior of the Year Award she received in 2012. For Hastings school board members: A copy of Charleton H. Sheets step-by-step real estate guide to selling property and avoiding losses, in light of selling Pleasantview School for $10,000. To Judge Bill Doherty: My personal copy of the book, Controlling your Emotions at Auction Sales — it’s a fast read. To Hastings High School teacher Vickie Sleevi: The Tempest in the Teapot Award. In recognition of her special abilities, she will receive one of our special Electra Taser units that puts out enough jolts to silence an entire angry mob. To former Thornapple Township Supervisor Don Boysen: A replica township office building in recognition of more than 30 years of service and to make his village collection complete. To Steve Youngs: A copy of the Thornapple Players’ newest production of “No Ordinary Guy” written by Norma Jean Acker. To Sheryl Lewis Blake, CEO of Pennock Hospital: The latest report released by the Obama Administration on How to Save Patients at Half the Cost – it’s a must read for medical professionals. To Hastings zoning officials: A copy of the new book found on the Walgreens newsstand Cornices Can Make a Building Appealing. To Hastings Mayor Pro-Tem Brenda McNabb-Stange: The honor of having her name on a plaque at the entrance to the Hastings Riverside Cemetery, along with a copy of “Hastings, 100 Best Small Towns in America,” to better understand what makes small towns great. To Hastings Councilwoman Jeri DePue: A leash so officials can reel her in when she gets out of control along with the book “100 Best Towns in America” to better understand small-town culture. To the Barry County Humane Society: A ‘Leaf’ blower to be used when things get out of control at the animal shelter. To Larry and Earlene Baum, Dick Groos, and Doug and Margaret DeCamp: A special tour on the Holly Trolley to view the impact they’ve made for generations to come throughout Barry County. And as I come to the end of my list, I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who gives their time and talents throughout the year to make Barry County and all the activities we enjoy so successful. As we begin 2013, let’s focus on the possibilities rather the difficulties we face in the new year. Fred Jacobs, vice president, J-Ad Graphics �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, December 27, 2012 — Page 5 State News Roundup Defense bill addresses Michigan Air Guard bases The final version of a federal defenseauthorizing bill would impose significant changes at Michigan Air National Guard bases located in Alpena and Battle Creek. “We will continue A-10 and KC-135 flying operations at Selfridge and will continue to aggressively pursue the airlift mission in Battle Creek,” said Maj. Gen. Gregory Vadnais, director and adjutant general of the Michigan National Guard in a Dec. 21 press release. “My goal now is to continue working with Gov. Snyder, the Michigan Congressional Delegation, the Council of Governors and my fellow adjutants general from across the nation to find the most equitable solution that protects the strength and functionality of the Air National Guard. Given the difficult budgetary challenges our country faces, it only makes sense to invest in the best value for America — he National Guard. Specifically, the Air Guard makes up 35 percent of the flying Air Force at only 6 percent of the budget.” The National Defense Authorization Act calls for the U.S. Air Force to make equipment and organizational changes in its inventory across the country. Both House and Senate negotiators stripped language form the final version that would freeze proposed reductions, thus indicating that reductions will certainly be implemented, including at the Combat Readiness Training Center in Alpena. CRTCs were uniformly cut across the Guard. “I am committed to working with the governor and our congressional delegation to retain our flying mission in Battle Creek,” Vadnais remarked. “It is the right thing to do for the state and the nation.” “The National Commission on the Structure of the Air Force will provide at least some level of transparency to the development of future Air Force budgets. We look forward to the end result of this study,” added Vadnais. The Department of Defense makes determinations regarding where inventory reductions occur and has the option of making significant reductions to the Michigan Air Guard Fleet. The final bill will be voted on this week. New Year a great time to quit tobacco Local parish shares condolences with Newtown namesake From the time they learned of a church that shares a similar name in Newtown, Conn., parishioners of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Hastings have felt a special tie to the community that experienced horrific tragedy Dec. 14 when a gunman opened fire at an elementary school. After all three masses at the Hastings church Sunday, parishioners were invited by Father Richard Altine (pictured here) to sign a four-by-six-foot banner that holds a photo of the local church and the lyrics to the spirit-filled song “Christ is Our Light.” The banner will be mailed this week to Monsignor Bob Weiss as a show of love and support in not only name, but also in spirit. IURP�RXU�UHDGHUV DNR should have been involved in Pine Lake weed proposal These are the “chemical cocktails” often referred to. Why not get a permit, provide education and supervision and help the residents to treat legally in the light of day? I am confident that the DNR would have helped with planning and education. If this had been done, I don’t believe we would be considering a special assessment district today. The Weed Committee is back with another survey. The 2007 survey claimed 36 percent of the littoral zone was covered with milfoil. The DNR found about 10 acres. the 2012 survey claims 38 percent milfoil, but the DNR was kept silent. The Aquatic Vegetation Assessment survey is required for the use of Sonar, or full-lake treatment. The survey must show a lake with weeds terribly out of balance and in need of radical treatment, since this treatment is so severe, it can only be repeated every three years by law. Our township must follow certain guidelines when approving a special assessment district. The special assessment district must be proven necessary and supported by facts. I think the survey is that proof. I don’t trust the survey, don’t think the assessment is necessary and don’t want full lake treatment. The definition of necessary is “absolutely needed to accomplish a certain result, essential.” I hope our township board will not burden unwilling taxpayers with a $400 assessment over the next five years to control Eurasian milfoil when spot treatment by owners can most likely get the job done. George Hoffman, Plainwell Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 945-9554 for more information. NOTICE The minutes of the meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners held December 26, 2012, are available in the County Clerk’s Office at 220 W. State St., Hastings, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or www.barrycounty.org. Frazee-Wood, Jr. Nicole Frazee and Elwin Wood Jr. are delighted to announce their engagement. The union of their love will take place May 18, 2013. Nicole is the daughter of Mr. George (Tom) Frazee of Comstock Park, and Sharon Frazee of Marne. Nicole graduated from NorthePointe Christian High School, received her Bachelor of Music from GVSU, and earned her Master of Music from East Carolina University in flute and piccolo performance. Along with being a free-lance flutist, Nicole owns Nikki’s Hawaiian Shaved Ice L.L.C. and is a business entrepreneur. Elwin is the son of Mrs. Margie Wood and the late Mr. Elwin Wood of Hastings. Elwin attended Hastings High School and graduated from Michigan State University with his Master of Business Administration. Elwin is a business entrepreneur and owns Woody’s General Store in Hastings. Introducing ... 77573343 Licensed / Insured / Local Call Scott 517-290-5556 • 877-448-1548 FREE Consultation & Estimates! ALSO EGRESS WINDOWS / MOLD REMEDIATION UDSA REAL ESTATE FORECLOSURE SALE 77573289 1270 Norway Avenue Hastings, MI 49058 Minimum Bid: $18,000.00 (or best offer above minimum bid) OFFER MUST BE IN FORM OF CERTIFIED CHECK THE DAY OF THE SALE DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY: 3BR, 1BA, 1 story w/full basement This description is believed to be correct to our best understanding DATE & TIME OF SALE: January 17, 2013 at 1:00 PM PLACE OF SALE: Barry County Courthouse, East Steps 220 W. State Street, Hastings, MI 48058 Dr Jason Gole welcomes dental hygienist Abbey McKeough as a provider at Gole Dental Group. The doctors and staff from Gole Dental Group are pleased to announce that Abbey McKeough has joined our team as a Registered Dental Hygienist. Abbey is a 2006 graduate of Hastings High School and local resident of Hastings. She recently received her state license after passing her state hygiene board exam and completion of the Kellogg Community College dental hygiene program in 2011. She is currently accepting patients of all ages for weekday and evening appointments. Please make it a point to stop in and welcome her to our team! 77573413 GET MORE LOCAL NEWS! information, call the American Cancer Society at 800-227-2345. • Health care provider, who can suggest or prescribe counseling, nicotine replacement medication and referral to services. • The Barry-Eaton District Health Department’s monthly Quit Smoking Workshop. This free program is a no-pressure, one-time workshop that shows individuals how to be smoke-free. According to the American Cancer Society, the benefits of quitting smoking are immediate. Within 20 minutes, blood pressure drops, and within 24 hours a person’s chance of heart attack decreases. The benefits continue for years, including reduced risk of lung cancer, stroke, and heart disease. “New Year’s Day is the single most popular day for giving up unhealthy habits. Quitting tobacco use now provides benefits that last a lifetime, and it is the single best thing that you can do for your health,” said Goul, health educator at BEDHD. “There are tools and resources available to assist with quitting, and to help with becoming tobaccofree in 2013.” For more information, call Goul, 517-5412624 or call the Michigan Tobacco Quitline at 800-QUIT-NOW (800-784-8669). 77573292 To the editor: The first of two public meetings concerning a special assessment district for week treatment at Pine Lake in Prairieville will soon be held at Delton Kellogg High School. It is my belief that the committee that researched and wrote the proposal purposely excluded the DNR from providing any input during the process. This special assessment proposal asks the residents to pay $227,135 over a five-year period. This is enough money to provide for whole lake treatment with Sonar on year one, followed by spot treatments in the following years. In 2008, there was disagreement among our residents concerning an aquatic vegetation assessment survey performed by ASI Environmental Technologies. The survey purported that 36 percent of the littoral zone of Pine Lake was covered with beds of Eurasian milfoil. The Prairieville Township Board asked the DNR to assess the milfoil problem in Pine Lake. The DNR inspected our 660-acre lake and found about 10 acres of milfoil. The DNR recommended spot treating those areas. The DNR also recommended that Pine Lake not receive a full lake treatment due to the depth and extensive areas of sand, marl and gravel. I have checked with the DNR and the recommendation for no full lake treatment stands. Four years have passed and neither the Pine Lake Association or any other group has organized a spring spot treatment program by owners. Most believe a number of owners have treated their own docks and shorelines. In recognition of New Year’s resolutions to quit tobacco use, the Barry-Eaton District Health Department is encouraging area residents to take steps to make their resolutions successful. Numerous proven and effective methods available to Michigan residents, said Tamah Goul, BEDHD health educator, including: • The Michigan Department of Community Health Tobacco Quitline, 800-784-8669, which provides free telephone coaching for the uninsured and those with Medicaid and Medicare, and free nicotine replacement medications for those who qualify. The Quitline includes extra help for pregnant and postpartum women. Information on quitting smoking and a free printable Michigan Smoker’s Quit Kit are available through MDCH by visiting www.michigan.gov/tobacco. • BecomeAnEX.org , which is a free, interactive website that shows smokers how to relearn life without cigarettes. The site, developed by the American Legacy Foundation in partnership with Mayo Clinic, offers a free, personalized quit plan and an online support community to help people prepare to quit and remain off cigarettes. • Tools from the American Cancer Society available to help with quitting. For more FOR INFO CONTACT: 800-349-5097 x 4500 Or USDA Rural Development 1035 E. Michigan Ave., Paw Paw, MI 49079 For future foreclosure sales and inventory properties access our website:www.resales.usda.gov 121 W. WOODLAWN AVE. HASTINGS, MI 49058 269-948-2244 �Page 6 — Thursday, December 27, 2012 — The Hastings Banner MSP reports decrease in fatalities over holiday weekend The Michigan State Police confirmed Wednesday that preliminary reports indicate four people lost their lives in four separate traffic crashes during the 2012 Lifesaver holiday weekend. In comparison, eight people died in eight separate traffic crashes during the 2011 Lifesaver Holiday Weekend. The 2012 Lifesaver Holiday Weekend ran from 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 21, through midnight Sunday, Dec. 23. Alcohol was a known factor in three of the four fatal crashes, and three of the four victims were not using seatbelt restraints. “These numbers are preliminary and only reflect those fatalities reported to the Michigan State Police as of 11 a.m. today,” Worship Together… of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 408, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Thursday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1716 North Broadway. Rev. Timm Oyer, Pastor. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Evening Service 6 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7 p.m. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Dan Currie, Sr. Pastor; Josh Maurer, Youth Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages,10:30 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service: Jr. Youth Group 5-7 p.m. & Sr. High Youth Group 7-9 p.m.. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 p.m., Awana, Bible Study, Praise and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information on MOPS, Children’s Choir, Sports Ministries. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Gary Simmons. Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (616) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Susan D. Olsen. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. ST. ROSE CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. Saturday Mass 4:30 p.m.; Sunday Masses 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Confession Saturday 3:30-4:15 p.m. ST. CYRIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Nashville. Rev. Richard Altine, Pastor. A mission of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hastings. Mass Sunday at 9:30 a.m. . WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelchair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. QUIMBY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-79 East. P.O. Box 63, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Rev. Bryce Feighner. (616) 945-9392. Sunday Worship 11:15 a.m. GRACE BRETHREN BIBLE CHURCH 600 Powell Road, Hastings. Pastor Bob Wilson. Church Phone 269948-2330. Pastor’s Home 269-9454356. bjw1633@sbcglobal.net. Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH OF GOD 502 E. Bond St., Hastings. Pastor J.C. Crank cordially invites you to come worship with us each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and Tuesday evening Bible study 6 p.m. with Rev. Calvon Kidder. Interested in knowing more about our church? Please feel welcome to call one of these numbers. Pastor Crank 269-979-8618; (313) 610-5730 or; Ed Blankenship (Local) 269-945-3327. COUNTRY CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 9275 S. M-37 Hwy., Dowling, MI 49050. Rev. Ryan Wieland. Sundays - 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Service; Sunday School and Nursery available during both services (Summer Schedule - Adult Sunday School: 9 a.m., Worship & Children’s Programs 10 a.m.) Youth Group, Covenant Prayer, Choir, Chimes, Praise Band, Quilting Group, Community Breakfasts and more! Call the church office at (269) 721-8077 (M/W/F 9 a.m.-12 p.m.), e-mail office@mei.net or visit www.countrychapelumc.org <http://www.countrychapelumc.org/> for more information SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIAS INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-7952370 and the rectory number is 269948-9327. Our church website is http://trax.to/andrewmatthias. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH M-37 South at M-79, Rev. Richard Moore, Pastor. Church phone 269945-4995. Church Website: www. hopeum.org. Church Fax No.: 269818-0007. Church SecretaryTreasurer, Linda Belson. Office hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Morning Worship; Sr. Hi. Youth 5 to 7 p.m.; Sunday evening service 6 pm; SonShine Preschool (ages 3 & 4) (September thru May), Tues., Thurs. from 9-11:30 am, 12-2:30 pm; Tuesday 9 am Men’s Bible Study at the church. Wednesday 6 pm - Pioneers (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 6 pm - Jr. High Youth (meal served) (October thru May). Wednesday 7 pm - Prayer Meeting. Thursday 9:30 am - Women’s Bible Study. COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand, Hastings; Floyd Hughes, Pastor; Myron Huebner, Music. Sunday Services: 10 a.m., Sunday School (all ages); 11 a.m. Worship Service; 6 p.m. Evening Service; 7 p.m. Thursday, Bible Study and Prayer. Call 269-948-2673 for additional information. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616731-5194 . HASTINGS ASSEMBLY OF GOD 1674 S. State Rd., Hastings, MI 49058 Phone 269-945-2285. Sunday morning service times: 9 a.m. with nursery and preschool available and 11 a.m. with nursery, preschool and kids’ church available. HASTINGS FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green Street, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Don Spachman. Office Phone (269) 945-9574. Office hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to noon. Sunday morning worship hours: 8:45 a.m. Traditional Worship; 10 a.m. Refreshments; 10:45 a.m. Contemporary Worship. 5th Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. Sunday School for PreK-5th and Nursery Care (infants through age 4) is available during both worship services. Share the Light Soup Kitchen serves a free meal every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH 2635 North M-43 Highway, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Pastor Daniel Graybill, Pastor Brian Teed, and Youth Pastor Eric Gillespie. Sunday: Nursery and toddler (birth through age 3) care provided. Worship Services: 9:15 a.m. and Children’s Sunday School (ages 2 thru 5th grade). 10:45 a.m. & Children’s Junior Church (4 years through 4th grade). Junior and Senior High Youth Group 6:00 p.m., and several adult small group opportunities. Wednesday Mid-Week at 6:30 p.m.: Pioneer Club, 4 years through 5th grade. Adults: Marriage Enrichment Class, Women’s Prayer Group and a Men’s Bible Study. Thursday: Senior Adult (50+) Bible Study at 10 a.m. and lunch at Wendy’s, 11:30 a.m. Third Thursday Brunch at 9:30 a.m. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Sunday, Dec. 30 - Worship Service 10 a.m. Sunday School 8:45. Dec. 30- Worship; Men & Women’s Alcoholics Anonymous 7 p.m. Jan. 1- Church Office Closed. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-9459414 or 945-2645, fax 269-9452698. Pastor Amy Luckey. http://www.discover-grace.org FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. Rev. Dr. Jeff Garrison, Pastor. Sunday Services: 8:55 a.m. Traditional Worship Service; 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service. Nursery and Children’s Worship available during both services. Visit us online at www.firstchurchhastings.org and our web log for sermons at: http://hastingspresbyterian.blogspot.com. Friday - 9 a.m. Pickleball. Saturday - 10:30 a.m. Praise Team. Monday 4 p.m. Pickleball; 7 p.m. Knit Wits. Wednesday - 4 p.m. Pickleball. 770 Cook Rd. Hastings 945-9541 945-2471 102 Cook Hastings 945-4700 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 N: M: L: K: 118 S. Jefferson Hastings 945-3429 WEST N: 10 9 3 2 M: --L: Q 10 9 8 5 4 K: A 10 4 Garrold “Gary” Crapo A85 K J 10 5 J73 QJ8 EAST N: Q 7 6 4 M: Q 9 6 4 L: 2 K: 9 7 5 3 SOUTH: N: M: L: K: KJ A8732 AK6 K62 Dealer: West Vulnerable: Neither N Lead: 10N DELTON, MI - Garrold "Gary" Crapo, Delton, passed away at his home on December 25, 2012. Gary was born August 14, 1943, in Battle Creek, the son of Robert and Stella (Belles) Crapo. Gary was a loyal employee of Hastings Fiberglass, working 40 years and eight days, retiring due to health issues in 2005. Gary was a civil war enthusiast, reading whatever he could about the war. He loved the outdoors, especially hunting, fishing, and mowing his well manicured and perfectly cut lawn. Gary was a very organized man, a place for everything and everything in its place was important to him. He loved his Ford Mustang, which he sold when his children arrived. Later he saved to get a Dodge Ram Pickup that he also loved. His great love was his family, especially his grandson Nate. He loved going to Nate's sporting events. On October 21, 1967, Gary married the love of his life, Dawn Holtman, who survives. Other members of his family include a son, Scott (Michelle) Crapo, of Hickory Corners; a daughter, Brenda (Brandt) Kearly, of Middleville; a grandson, Nathan Scott Crapo; a brother, Robert (Dianna) Crapo;, and several nieces and nephews. Gary was preceded in death by his parents; an infant child; a sister, Beverly Madison; a niece, Barbara Madison; nephews, Rob and Brian Crapo; and a great niece, Wendy Keeler. The family will receive friends, Saturday, December 29, 2012, from 10 to 11 a.m., at the Hickory Corners Bible Church, where a memorial service will be conducted at 11a.m., with Pastor Jeff Worden officiating. Private burial will take place in Cedar Creek Cemetery. Memorial contributions to Hickory Corners Bible Church will be appreciated. Please visit www.williamsgoresfuneral.com to view Gary's online guestbook or to leave a condolence message for his family. Newborn Babies Isabella Marie, born at Pennock Hospital on Dec. 12, 2012 at 10:36 p.m. to Jessica Mann and Kevin Barcroft of Hastings. Weighing 6 lbs. 6 ozs. and 20 inches long. ***** Natalie Alexis, born at Pennock Hospital on Dec. 12, 2012 at 3:08 a.m. to Kathryn and Lucas Drury of Clarksville. Weighing 7 lbs. 11 ozs. and 19 3/4 inches long. ***** Noelle Elizabeth, born at Pennock Hospital on Dec. 14, 2012 at 2:42 p.m. to Colin and Andrea Randall of Hastings. Weighing 7 lbs. 15 ozs. and 21 inches long. ***** Louie Gabriella, born at Pennock Hospital on Dec. 14, 2012 at 9:51 a.m. to Loni Lefers and Alex Snider of Middleville. Weighing 6 lbs. 12.5 ozs. and 20 inches long. **** Fiberglass Products 1401 N. Broadway Hastings NORTH Area Obituaries CHURCH OF CHRIST 541 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings. Minister Collin Pinkston. Phone 269-945-2938. Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 7 p.m. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Lauer Family Funeral Homes by Gerald Stein 77573334 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852-9228. Morning Celebration 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. BETTER BRIDGE IN BARRY COUNTY said Capt. Kari Kusmierz, commander of the MSP Training Division in a press release issued Wednesday. “Even though these preliminary numbers show a decrease in fatalities from this same holiday period last year, the Michigan State Police continues to urge motorists not drink and drive, to always use proper restraints and to drive safely. North East South K 1K M 2M Pass Pass Pass Pass M 1M M 4M West Pass Pass Pass As he walked back from his mailbox in southern Barry County, Captain M. North glanced through the huge stack of cards, flyers, requests, ads, and his favorite hometown newspaper, The Hastings Banner. With the Christmas season upon the area and the world, Captain North looked over the cards, knowing that most were from family and acquaintances wishing him a joyous and blessed Christmas Season. One card, however, struck his interest. “From Florida,” he spoke half-aloud. “Who do I know in Florida?” Captain North peered closely at the return address: “Destin, Florida? Who do I know in Destin?” Not making the connection immediately, Captain North saw the letters R and V at the top of the return address label. “Is someone trying to sell or rent me an RV for an extended stay in Florida for the winter? Hmmm…doesn’t sound like too bad of an idea.” Captain North tore open the envelope but saw no advertisement for a Recreational Vehicle. Instead, he read the following message: “Dear Captain North, Merry Christmas from the Gulf Coast! This is Rosy and Vera wishing you a Merry Christmas from the bridge clubs of Destin, Fort Walton Beach, and Pensacola, Florida. We are having a hoot down here playing bridge with all of the Snowbirds from Michigan, “Minn-na-so-ta,” and Wisconsin. We thought we would say hi and let you know about one of our most recent hands that we played with the LOL’s down here.” Captain North scratched his head. “LOL means Laughing Out Loud, doesn’t it?” Then he understood. Vera and Rosy were having fun with him again. “Ah, Little Old Ladies! I get it.” Captain North had to chuckle. Even when they were not here in Barry County floating down the Thornapple River on the Barry County Bridge Barge, they could still make him smile. Captain North looked at the enclosed bridge hand, but there was very little commentary. All that was written at the end of the note were these words: “Captain North, we played North/South as we usually do. For this contract, with 14 tables, most teams opted for a small slam. What do you think we did with this hand, Captain North? By the way, the lead was the 10N.” It was signed Vera and Rosy, and that was all. Captain North was amused. He constructed the bridge hand from Vera and Rosy on his kitchen table, and he prepared to see just what had happened and how Vera and Rosy had done down in the Gulf Coast region. West led the 10N after North/South had reached an uncontested four-heart contract. South counted on North with the 1K opening to have at least three clubs and 12 high-card points. With South’s hand having 18 high-card points, the idea that that there might be a potential slam hand in the two hands came to the captain. When North responded with a 2M bid, showing four hearts and a minimum hand, South settled for the game contract in hearts. With the 10N on the table, South was glad that he had restrained his enthusiasm for the North/South pair. With 12 points in the North hand and 18 points in the South hand, they had together 30 high card points, but not the 33 needed for a small slam most of the time. South was resolved to make the four hearts and call it a good bid. With the 10N lead, South played low from the dummy and East rose with the QN. South captured the QN with the KN. South next led the AM and was instantly in for an unpleasant surprise. No hearts in the West hand, and four to the QM in the East hand. This called for a review of the plan. West had played a high diamond signaling that she had something in diamonds. South played the 5M from the dummy, and East followed with the 4M. South next led the JN from his hand and played the 8N from the dummy with both East and West following on the second spade lead. South next led the 2K from his hand toward the dummy with the QK and the JK showing. West ducked the lead, and the QK held the trick for South. North then led the AN planning to discard the losing 6L on the AN. When East played a spade, South discarded the losing diamond. Next, the lead from the dummy was the 10M, giving up the trick to East, but keeping control of the trump suit. East took the QM, and led her singleton diamond, the 2L, hoping to get a diamond ruff if her partner ever got back in. South was prepared for that lead, however, and promptly put up the KL with everyone following suit in diamonds. South then led the 3M from the South hand to the KM in the dummy, taking another heart from East. Leading the JM next from dummy pulled the last trump from East. South then led a diamond from the dummy to his good AL, dropping the QL from the West hand. There was, however, no way to get back in time to use the good JL on the board. Leading the KK from his hand was the finishing touch on a well-played hand. West took the AK, and led back a small spade, avoiding the good club on the board. South, however, trumped the spade lead with the last good heart, and led the 6K to the good JK on the board, making four hearts plus one overtrick for a strong score of 450 for the North/South team. Captain North smiled to himself. Of course, Vera and Rosy had played it that way, and they had avoided the temptation to go on to slam when it was not there. In fact, when Captain North turned over to the back of Rosy and Vera’s card, he saw that he was right. “Nine tables tried slam and all failed. We were one of four tables to bid 4 hearts and make an overtrick for a top board on that round.” “Congratulations, Rosy and Vera,” said Captain North. “See you in the spring on the Barry County Bridge Barge.” With a smile, Captain North finished opening the rest of his mail. ****** (Gerald Stein, an Accredited Bridge Teacher for the American Contract Bridge League, teaches bridge classes at local schools and bridge clubs. You can visit his bridge blog at: h t t p : / / betterbridgeinbarrycountymichigan.blogspot.com) Ray L. Girrbach Owner/Director 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 • 269-945-3252 Marriage Licenses Serving Hastings, Barry County and Surrounding Communities for 45 years Ivan Clyde Hahhan, Middleville and Melanie Kay Flynn, Middleville. Curtis Matthew Norman Jr., Bellevue and Kelsey Maree Bodenmuller, Bellevue. Family Owned and Operated •Traditional and Cremation Services •Pre-Planning Services •Large Parking Lot - Handicap Accessible •Serving All Faiths •Pre-arrangement Transfers Accepted www.girrbachfuneralhome.net �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, December 27, 2012 — Page 7 Chamber prepares for a mid-century new year The following article appeared in the Feb. 2, 1950, Hastings Banner. Appointment of six committees to augment the already functioning three divisions of the Hastings Chamber of Commerce in carrying out one of its most comprehensive programs, has been announced by Stanley F. Cummings, president. Committees and their members are: New Industries, W.D. Campbell, chairman, Roman Feldpausch, Roger Wiswell, Paul Siegel, Charles Faul, Edward Goodyear, Homer Smith, Clifton Miller. Governmental Affairs: Charles Annable, chairman, Adelbert Cortright, George Dean, Stuart Cleveland, Allan Hyde, Einar Frandsen, W.L. Patten, Norbert Schowalter, Leo Barth, Earl Boyes. Cleanup - Paintup: Edward Storkan, chairman, Henry Thompson, George Lyndon, Carl Kaechele, C.F. Eckardt. Community Relations: J. Franklin Huntley, chairman, J.C. Adams, Herman St. Martin, Gus Wingeier, George Van Houten, Fr. John Dillon, Rev. Leon Manning, Arthur Wingerden, Roy Hubbard, Edwin Taylor. Membership: William Schilhaneck, chairman, T.S. Baird, Ray Olson, Thomas Taffee, Morton Bacon, Richard Loppenthein, Digory McEwan. Streets and Highways: David S. Goodyear, chairman, George Charpenter, Charles H. Leonard, Roy Thomas, Ken Laberteaux. A fourth unit, a rural-urban division, will be formed in the near future, Cummings said. The three divisions that have already been established by the chamber under the direction of Enar A. Ahlstrom, manager, who has been supervising the chamber’s reorganization since last June are established industries, retail merchants and Barry County Tourist and Resort. “We now have a solid working organization,” Cummings said, “and I am confident that this year will see the chamber of commerce chalk up one of the most impressive series of worthwhile accomplishments achieved by this organization in many years.” Each division and committee has definite objectives and projects to be accomplished in 1950. The Established Industries Division, comprised of members of the city’s manufacturing firms, is engaged in making an analysis of the various occupations and professions utilized in local industries. Upon completion of this study, the division will collaborate with the high school in a program to acquaint students with the job opportunities that exist in local plants and will assist in providing proper training for those who wish to qualify for them. It was pointed out by the division’s executive committee that students do not realize the variety of occupations and professions needed by local industries. The division believes if they are made aware of these opportunities and trained to accept them, it will not be necessary for many young people to seek their livelihood in other cities. Members of the Established Industries executive committee are Ernest Edison, Grand Rapids Bookcase & Chair, chairman; Joseph Skinner, Consumers Power, vice chairman; William G. Bradford, Hastings Mfg. Company, secretary-treasurer; Roy Thomas, Hastings Burial Vaults; John Armbruster, Kist Ice Cream and Beverage Company; Richard Gilbert, Pet Milk; Richard Compton and Lawrence Herrick, E.W. Bliss; Willard Gonyou, Royal Coach; Richard Cotter and John Lennon, Metal Tile Products; and Don Siegel, Hastings Mfg. Company. The chamber’s Tourist and Resort Division is nearing completion of its program, announced last fall. The group has already sent to the printers a Barry County Vacation Map, designed by the division’s executive committee. A total of 10,000 maps have been ordered for distribution through its tourist bureau at the chamber office and through other sources. The “lure book” on the county as a vacationland, also sponsored by the division, will be ready for distribution within a few weeks. Other projects undertaken by the division will be completed before the tourist season begins. Projects undertaken by the newly appointed committees, who will function under the supervision of the Chamber’s board of directors, are many and varied. This photo, which was published in the May 4, 1950, Hastings Banner, shows the symbolic cleanup effort of the city. The chamber announced earlier in the year its comprehensive program that included a city cleanup. Sweeping Up - Focusing attention on the week-long Cleanup, Paintup, Fixup campaign to make Hastings one of the cleanest cities in the country. City fathers helping to “spark” the drive included Mayor Jack Hewitt, (left foreground), Aldermen David L. Christian and Maurice Ingram, (background) Bob Klevorn, K-B Supply Company, and Gus Wingeier, of Roth Furniture and president of the Kiwanis Club. – Photo by Leo Barth. Among them are plans for the establishment of a Labor-Management-Citizens Committee, patterned after the Toledo, Ohio, committee that has gained national prominence. This project is being handled by the Community Relations Committee, which will also seek establishment of a community calendar of coming events to be handled through the chamber’s office. A city-wide cleanup, paintup, fixup campaign is being formulated jointly by the chamber’s committee and a similar committee to be named by the local Junior Chamber of Commerce. The campaign will be staged sometime this spring. A study of governmental and legislation action at all levels – city, county, state and national – is being undertaken by the Governmental Affairs committee. The group will focus its attention primarily on matters that affect business and industry locally, but intend to expand its scope as it progresses. A drive for new members is being planned by the membership committee, and the streets and highways group has been given specific objectives toward which to direct its efforts. Each committee and division will submit 77573358 77573349 77573346 77573355 77573352 quarterly progress reports and recommendations to the board of directors. Additional committees will be named as their need arises. LEGAL NOTICES MORTGAGE SALE This is an attempt to collect a debt, and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Please contact our office at the number below if you are in active military duty. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage made by RONALD K. HARNEY and JODI L. HARNEY, husband and wife, Mortgagors, to INDEPENDENT MORTGAGE CO. WEST MI, with offices at 4200 East Beltline, Grand Rapids, MI 49525, Mortgagee, dated January 8, 2007 and recorded January 9, 2007 in Instrument No. 1174850 and Modification Agreement recorded in Instrument No. 201004190004052 of Mortgages, Page which was assigned to INDEPENDENT BANK of 4200 East Beltline, Grand Rapids, Michigan, by Assignment recorded in Instrument No. 2012-005873. By reason of such default the undersigned elects to declare the entire unpaid amount of said mortgage due and payable forthwith. At the date of this Notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on said mortgage the sum of ONE HUNDRED SIXTEEN THOUSAND THREE and 14/100 ($116,003.14) dollars including interest at the rate of 5.0% per annum. No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided and to pay said amount with interest as provided in said mortgage, and all legal costs, charges, and expenses, including attorney fees allowed by law, said mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the east door of the Barry County Courthouse, the place of holding the Circuit Court within the County of Barry, City of Hastings, Michigan, on January 17, 2013, at 1:00 p.m., local time. Pursuant to Public Act No. 104, Public Acts of 1971, MCLA 600.3240, MSA 27A.3240, the redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of the foreclosure sale, unless the property is determined to be abandoned under MCLA 600.3241a; MSA 27A.3241(1), in which case the property may be redeemed during the 30 days immediately following the sale or expiration of statutory notice period. The premises covered by said mortgage are situated in the Township of Castleton, County of Barry, State of Michigan, described as follows, to wit: Beginning at a point on the East and West 1/4 line of Section 33, Town 3 North, Range 7 West, Castleton Township, Barry County, Michigan, distant South 89 degrees 51'07" East 218.82 feet from the West 1/4 corner of said section; thence North 00 degrees 03'57" West 305.27 feet; thence South 89 degrees 51'07" East 325.84 feet (also described as 325.64 feet); thence South 00 degrees 03'57" East 305.27 feet to said East and West 1/4 line; thence North 89 degrees 51'07" West 325.64 feet along said 1/4 line to the point of beginning. Except and subject to an easement for public highway purposes for Highway M-79 (formerly Scott Road) as described in the document in Liber 238 of Deeds on Page 77. INDEPENDENT BANK, Assignee of INDEPENDENT MORTGAGE CO. WEST MI SCHENK, BONCHER & RYPMA Curtis D. Rypma P44421 601 Three Mile Road, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49544-1601 77572899 (616) 647-8277 AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTIFY US AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE - Default having been made in the terms and conditions of a certain mortgage made by ELMER L HOLBROOK, JR. , A SINGLE MAN, Mortgagors, to Bank of America NA, Mortgagee, dated the 12th day of June, 2006 and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, for The County of Barry and State of Michigan, on the 16th day of June, 2006 in Liber Instrument No. 1166074 of Barry County Records, page , said Mortgage having been assigned to Green Tree Servicing LLC on which mortgage there is claimed to be due, at the date of this notice, the sum of Ninety Three Thousand Two Hundred Eleven & 41/100 ($93,211.41), and no suit or proceeding at law or in equity having been instituted to recover the debt secured by said mortgage or any part thereof. Now, therefore, by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, and pursuant to statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that on the 3rd day of January, 2013 at 1:00 PM o’clock Local Time, said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, MI (that being the building where the Circuit Court for the County of Barry is held), of the premises described in said mortgage, or so much thereof as may be necessary to pay the amount due, as aforesaid on said mortgage, with interest thereon at 7.125% per annum and all legal costs, charges, and expenses, including the attorney fees allowed by law, and also any sum or sums which may be paid by the undersigned, necessary to protect its interest in the premises. Which said premises are described as follows: All that certain piece or parcel of land, including any and all structures, and homes, manufactured or otherwise, located thereon, situated in the Township of Castleton, County of Barry, State of Michigan, and described as follows, to wit: THE EAST 51 FEET OF LOT NUMBER 69 OF 0. A. PHILLIPS ADDITION TO THE VILLAGE OF NASHVILLE, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF, ALSO, A PARCEL OF LAND DESCRIBED AS: COMMENCING AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF LOT 69 OF 0. A. PHILLIPS ADDITION TO THE VILLAGE OF NASHVILLE FOR THE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE WEST 51 FEET; THENCE NORTH TO THE SOUTH BANK OF THE THORNAPPLE RIVER; THENCE EAST ALONG THE BANK OF THE THORNAPPLE RIVER TO A POINT NORTH OF THE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE SOUTH TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. ALSO, A PARCEL OF LAND DESCRIBED AS COMMENCING AT A POINT WHICH LIES 232 FEET EAST OF THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF LOT 67 OF 0. A. PHILLIPS ADDITION TO THE VILLAGE OF NASHVILLE FOR THE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE EAST 53 FEET; THENCE NORTH TO THE SOUTH BANK OF THE THORNAPPLE RIVER; THENCE WEST 53 FEET; THENCE SOUTH TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING During the six (6) months immediately following the sale, the property may be redeemed, except that in the event that the property is determined to be abandoned pursuant to MCLA 600.3241a, the property may be redeemed during 30 days immediately following the sale. Pursuant to MCLA 600.3278, the mortgagor(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 12/6/2012 Green Tree Servicing LLC Mortgagee FABRIZIO & BROOK, P.C. Attorney for Green Tree Servicing LLC 888 W. Big Beaver, Suite 800 Troy, Ml 48084 248-362-2600 GTSD FNMA HolbrookElm 77572873 (12-06)(12-27) �Page 8 — Thursday, December 27, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Lake Odessa Financial FOCUS Furnished by Mark D. Christensen of by Elaine Garlock Tonight’s open house at the Congregational parsonage is on Fourth Avenue, not Sixth Avenue as printed in last week’s column. Sunday, retired pastor Rev. Joe “Graby” Grabell and wife Sue (Krebs) of Leland attended services at Central United Methodist Church. They were glad to see five of their Decker relatives in attendance also. Other visitors at the church included Doug Darling of Texas, a Curtis cousin of Sharlene Goodemoot, the Casey McDonalds of Grand Rapids, Matt Singh of Grand Blanc and Kalamazoo, the parents of Pastor Karen Sorden from Grant. The senior Mrs. Sorden was observing her 80th birthday anniversary on that day. Guests at the Garlock home Saturday came from Big Rapids, Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo and Hastings for an evening meal following the arrival of the MSU grads in the group who had attended the afternoon basketball game on campus. HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Thursday, Dec. 27 — Movie Memories finishes the Christmas season with “The Great Rupert,” starring Jimmy Durante, 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 28 — no preschool story time. Monday, Dec. 31 — library closed New Year’s Eve. Tuesday, Jan. 1 — library closed New Year’s Day. Wednesday, Jan. 2 — 1st to 3rd Club has fun with snow, 4:15 to 5:15 p.m.; no library book club this month. Call the Hastings Public Library for more information, 269-945-4263. LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE OF JUDICIAL FORECLOSURE SALE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE IF YOU ARE A BORROWER ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY ATTENTION PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the circuit court at the request of the plaintiff. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest, as determined by the court. Barry County Circuit Court Case No. 10-618CH NOTICE OF JUDICIAL SALE JUDICIAL SALE IN PURSUANCE and by virtue of Judgment(s) and/or Order(s) of foreclosure in the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, State of Michigan, made and entered on the 12th day of January, 2012, in a certain cause therein pending, wherein HSBC Mortgage Services, Inc. was the Plaintiff and Jeff Schantz was the defendant. The aforementioned Judgment(s) and/or Order(s) established a debt owing to Plaintiff in the amount of $127,979.10, plus post-judgment interest at an annual rate of 8.125% and other amounts recoverable pursuant to said Judgment(s) and/or Order(s). NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that in order to satisfy said Judgment(s) and/or Order(s), in whole or in part, the property described below shall be sold at public auction, by an authorized sheriff / deputy sheriff or county Clerk/Deputy county Clerk, to the highest bidder, at the Circuit Court for the County of Barry, on the 24th of January, 2013 at 1:00 PM, local time. On said day at said time, the following described property shall be sold: property located in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, particularly described as The West 1/2 of Lots 1302 and 1303 of the City, Formerly Village of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof.. Tax Parcel ID: 08-55-201-447-00 More commonly known as: 227 W South St, REDEMPTION PERIOD IS SIX MONTHS. For more information please call 248.642.2515. Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys for Plaintiff 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334-2525 T# 329389L02 77572736 (12-06)(01-10) SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by ADAM P. KITELEY and BETH A. KITELEY AKA BETH A. OWENS, HUSBAND AND WIFE, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated March 22, 2010, and recorded on March 31, 2010, in Document No. 201003310003378, and assigned by said mortgagee to THE HUNTINGTON NATIONAL BANK, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Thirty-Four Thousand Eight Hundred Seventy-Nine Dollars and Seventy-Two Cents ($134,879.72), including interest at 5.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan at 01:00 PM o'clock, on January 17, 2013 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: A PARCEL OF LAND IN THE NORTHEAST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 22, TOWN 4 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST DESCRIBED AS: COMMENCING AT THE NORTH 1 / 4 OF SAID SECTION 22; THENCE EAST 748.4 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 41 DEGREES 05 MINUTES EAST 610.01 FEET TO THE BEGINNING; THENCE SOUTH 41 DEGREES 05 MINUTES EAST 220 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 57 DEGREES 25 MINUTES WEST 200 FEET; THENCE NORTH 41 DEGREES 05 MINUTES WEST 220 FEET; THENCE NORTH 57 DEGREES 25 MINUTES EAST 200 FEET TO THE BEGINNING. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. THE HUNTINGTON NATIONAL BANK Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 77573329 HMC.001573 FNMA (12-20)(01-10) GERNER & KEARNS, PLLC, IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (216) 583-0660 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Ileta L. Campbell, A Single Woman, Martin O. Disbrow and Denise Ann Disbrow, Husband and Wife, to Fifth Third Bank, Mortgagee, dated February 27, 2008, and recorded on March 14, 2008, in Instrument Number 200803140002391, in BARRY County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Eighty Six Thousand Nine Hundred Seventy Seven Dollars and Twenty Eight Cents ($86,977.28), including interest at 4.2% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the circuit court within BARRY County, Michigan at 1:00 PM o’clock, on Thursday, January 17, 2013. Said premises are located in BARRY County, Michigan and are described as: City of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan: The South 1/2 of Lot 73 of the original plat of the city, formerly village of Hastings, according to the recorded plat thereof. Property Address: 211 South Market Street Hastings, Michigan 49058 Tax ID No. 55-001-24700 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If this property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Fifth Third Bank (Western Michigan) Mortgagee/Assignee Gerner & Kearns, PLLC 526 Superior Avenue East, Suite 630 77573126 Cleveland, OH 44114 (12-13)(01-03) SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by CHARLES D. MIDDLETON RN, A SINGLE MAN, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated April 19, 2007, and recorded on April 24, 2007, in Document No. 1179691, and assigned by said mortgagee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Seventy-Seven Thousand Eight Hundred Thirty Dollars and Seventy-Seven Cents ($77,830.77), including interest at 7.000% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan. at 01:00 PM o'clock, on January 24, 2013 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: COMMENCING AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF THE NORTHEAST 1 / 4 OF THE NORTHWEST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 35, TOWN 3 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST FOR A PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE EAST 325 FEET; THENCE NORTH 260 FEET; THENCE WEST 325 FEET, THENCE SOUTH 260 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 77573417 JPMC.001127 FHA (12-27)(01-17) EDWARD JONES Five reasons not to be a ‘do-it-yourself’ investor These days, you can go online and invest, for modest fees. You can also visit various websites for research and watch numerous cable shows for investment recommendations. So, why shouldn’t you be a “do-it-yourself” investor rather than work with a financial professional? Actually, there are at least five good reasons why a financial advisor can help make you a better investor. A financial advisor can: Ask the right questions — If you try to invest on your own, you may find yourself asking the wrong questions, such as: “What’s the ‘hottest’ investment out there?” A financial professional can help frame better questions, such as: “Given my individual risk tolerance and long-term goals, which investments should I consider to help me build a balanced portfolio?” In other words, a financial professional can help you ask the questions that can lead to better results. Look at your situation objectively — No matter how hard you try, you won’t be able to take all the emotion out of your investment choices. After all, your investment success will play a large role in some key areas of your life, such as your ability to enjoy a comfortable retirement. Consequently, if you think you’re not making the progress you should with your investments, you may be tempted to make a hasty decision to give your portfolio a “jolt.” Frequently, though, such choices can backfire. When it comes to investing, it’s better to invest with your head, not your heart. A financial advisor can analyze your situation, assess your risk tolerance and make appropriate recommendations. Show a deeper understanding of investment research — You can look up many types of financial data on your own. But do you know how to put all these pieces together into a cohesive picture? A financial professional, with years of experience and training, is generally more capable of finding the research sources and making the most sense out of the results. Put experience to work in making portfolio recommendations. Even if you’ve been investing for many years, you might be surprised at all the underlying influences that should go into making investment decisions. But a financial professional understands market patterns, the nature of diversification and other factors necessary in helping you make the right choices for your situation. Spend time looking for opportunities — Even if you enjoy the process of investing, the chances are quite good that you can’t spend as much time on it as a financial professional. That means, among other things, you aren’t constantly on the lookout for new investment opportunities. Nor are you always looking within your own portfolio for opportunities to rebalance or make other adjustments that can help you move forward toward your goals. But when you work closely with a financial advisor, he or she is exploring the financial markets for new investment prospects while regularly reviewing your portfolio for possibilities of upgrading quality, increasing diversification or making adjustments in response to changes in your life. The “do-it-yourself” route may be fine for home repairs. But when it comes to managing your investment situation, there are benefits to working with a professional. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. If you have any questions, contact Mark D. Christensen at 269-945-3553. STOCKS The following prices are from the close of business last Tuesday. Reported changes are from the previous week. Altria Group 31.66 -.93 AT&T 33.74 -.60 BP PLC 41.72 -.30 CMS Energy Corp 24.51 -.07 Coca-Cola Co 36.73 -.55 Eaton 53.47 -.41 Family Dollar Stores 62.83 -2.90 Fifth Third Bancorp 15.04 -.04 Flowserve CP 144.46 -.23 Ford Motor Co. 12.40 +.73 General Mills 41.00 -.77 General Motors 27.66 +2.17 Intel Corp. 20.64 +.32 Kellogg Co. 56.14 -.46 McDonald’s Corp 89.29 -1.23 Pfizer Inc. 25.08 -.56 Perrigo Co. 103.56 -.18 Ralcorp 89.30 +.13 Sears Holding 40.37 -3.93 Spartan Motors 5.10 -.04 Spartan Stores 15.87 -.25 Stryker 55.87 -.48 TCF Financial 12.27 unchanged Walmart Stores 68.57 -.93 Gold $1,658.80 -13.10 Silver $29.87 -1.77 Dow Jones Average 13,139 -211 Volume on NYSE 266M -507M Middleville council says ‘yes’ to raising chickens in village by Julie Makarewicz Staff Writer Chickens will rule their own roost in the village of Middleville. By a 4-to-2 vote last week, village council members approved an ordinance amendment allowing the fowl to reside within village limits, so long as strict criteria are met by the property owners. The chicken debate has been continuing for nearly a year after residents Stacey and Ruben Campos first brought it to the village council. They simply wanted the right to raise a few chickens in their backyard. Ironically, after the Campos have pleaded and worked with the village for months, they may still not be allowed to raise chickens even with the new ordinance approved. The Campos live in Bryanwood Estates, and, while they could meet the village requirements, neighborhood deed restrictions may prohibit farm animals. “I’m not sure what we have to do, but I’m just glad the village has approved this step,” said Stacey Campos. “It’s been a long time. We’ve learned a lot, and we’re very happy to have gone through the process. We just have to take it one step at a time.” Jim Ciluffo of Bryanwood Estates urged the council to deny the ordinance amendment. He presented what he believes are valid deed restrictions for Bryanwood Estates at an earlier meeting. Ciluffo said he fears allowing chickens will open the gates for requests for other animals and that he moved to Middleville to live in a residential area, not a farming area. The issue was heavily debated many times by the village council and the planning commission over several months. Council members Ed Schellinger and Mike Lytle voted against the ordinance Dec. 18 “I’m not for it,” said Lytle, who said he thinks it will be hard to monitor. “There could be four chicken coops that I have to look at from my backyard.” Schellinger voiced concerns about odors, increase of rodents and other pests, and possible diseases from the birds. Zoning Administrator Catherine Getty said a number of provisions in the ordinance allow the village to closely monitor the chickens. Before anyone can have the birds, a permit must be approved by the village which includes an inspection of the property and the chicken enclosure. Getty said that if complaints are made by neighbors, she or the zoning enforcement officer will investigate, and the permit could be revoked. “Some discretion is a good thing,” said Getty, “but if it becomes a habitual occurrence, then it could be subject to revocation of the permit.” Schellinger argued that the odor from the chickens will be noticeable especially after rains. “You can’t clean it up every day,” maintained Schellinger, “you’ll repeatedly have that odor.” Stacey Campos reminded village council members that the ordinance will allow each property no more than four chickens and no roosters. “They do not make noise like a dog,” said Campos. “We live in a village that is not immune to farm life. In the spring and fall you can’t deny odors from neighboring farms outside the village.” Council member Joyce Lutz said having four chickens would probably be less of a disturbance to neighbors than four large dogs. “This is an up and coming thing that is happening in a lot of places — even New York City,” commented Lutz. “I think we should give it a try.” Lutz, Charlie Pullen, Phil VanNoord and Sue Reyff voted in favor of allowing chickens. Council member Shannon Endsley was absent for the vote. The ordinance amendment also carries strict guidelines concerning the types of structures for the birds and setback requirements that must be met. Not every property within the village will be able to meet the setback requirements. Before the ordinance takes affect, it must be published and the village council must set a permit fee for permit applicants. Council members said they’ll discuss the permit fees at their January committee-of-the-whole meeting. SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN Expert answers questions about income, benefits and more I applied for a replacement Social Security card last week. When should I expect to receive my new card? On average, it takes approximately 10 to 14 days to receive your replacement Social Security card. However, if we need to verify documents you present as proof of identity, it could take longer in some cases. For more information about your Social Security card and number, visit www.socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber. What can I do if I think someone has stolen my identity? You should do several things, including: • File a report with the local police or the police department where the identity theft took place and keep a copy of the police report as proof of the crime. • Notify the Federal Trade Commission (877-ID-THEFT or 877-438-4338); • File a complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov; and contact the fraud units of the three major credit reporting bureaus: Equifax (800-525-6285); Trans Union: (800-680-7289); and Experian: (888-397-3742). Learn more by reading our publication, Identity Theft and Your Social Security Number, at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10064.html. I’m reaching my full retirement age and thinking about retiring in early 2013. When is the best time of year to apply for Social Security benefits? You may apply as early as four months prior to when you want your monthly benefits to begin. If you are planning to retire in early 2013, you may apply now. To apply, just go to www.socialsecurity.gov/applytoretire. Applying online for retirement benefits from the convenience of your home or office is secure and can take as little as 15 minutes. My wife and I live in Michigan, but plan to spend the winter in New Mexico. My wife will turn 62 while we are out West. Can she apply for benefits in New Mexico, or do we have to wait until we get back home to apply for retirement at our local Social Security office? These days, you don’t even have to be near a Social Security office to apply for benefits. Regardless of where you and your wife are living, you may apply for retirement benefits online at www.socialsecurity.gov/applytoretire. It’s so easy to do, and it can take as little as 15 minutes to complete and submit the application. If she prefers, your wife can file a retirement benefit application at any Social Security office — including the one closest to you in Michigan, New Mexico, or wherever you happen to be. I am about to apply for Social Security disability benefits. I have two children, ages 9 and 12. If my application is approved, will they get benefits, too? Or do the children also have to be disabled to qualify for benefits on See SOCIAL SECURITY, pg. 11 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, December 27, 2012 — Page 9 LEGAL NOTICES IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT 248-502-1400. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Judy McMillan and Ronald McMillan wife and husband, to Centex Home Equity Company, LLC, Mortgagee, dated October 26, 2005 and recorded November 9, 2005 in Instrument Number 1156026, Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Soundview Home Loan Trust 2006-2 by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Seventy-Six Thousand Seven Hundred Eleven and 50/100 Dollars ($176,711.50) including interest at 8.8% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 p.m. on 01/03/2013. Said premises are located in the Township of Assyria, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The following described premises situated in the Township of Assyria, County of Barry and State of Michigan: The Northeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 15, Town 1 North, Range 7 West. EXCEPT: The North 544.5 feet of the East 400 feet of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 15, Town 1 North, Range 7 West. Subject to an easement for public highway purposes over the Northerly 33 feet thereof for Cox Road, and over the Easterly 33 feet thereof for Guy Road. This property may be located within the vicinity of farm land or farm operation. Generally accepted agricultural and management practices which may generate noise, dust, odors, and other associated conditions may be used and are protected by the Michigan Right to Farm Act. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: December 6, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007-5041 File No. 306.4731 77572885 (12-06)(12-27) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Russell M. Peasley, a married man to Union Federal Bank of Indianapolis, Mortgagee, dated November 19, 2004 and recorded December 15, 2004 in Instrument # 1138757 and modified by agreement dated February 7, 2012 and recorded March 20, 2012 in Instrument #201203200002855 Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage was assigned through mesne assignments to: CitiMortgage, Inc., by assignment dated January 23, 2010 and recorded February 5, 2010 in Instrument # 201002050001068 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twelve Thousand One Hundred Two Dollars and Thirty-Four Cents ($112,102.34) including interest 4.375% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on January 17, 2013. Said premises are situated in Township of Maple Grove, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: A parcel of land in the Southwest one-quarter of Section 25, Town 2 North, Range 7 West, Maple Grove Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Beginning at a point on the West line of said Section 25 , distant North 00 degrees 16 minutes 09 seconds East 931.62 feet from the Southwest corner of said Section 25; thence North 00 degrees 16 minutes 09 seconds East 220 .00 feet along said West Section line; thence North 88 degrees 38 minutes 54 seconds East 650.32 feet; thence South 00 degrees 41 minutes 27 seconds West 220 .05 feet; thence South 88 degrees 38 minutes 54 seconds West 648.70 feet to the point of beginning. Model Year 1999 Make/ Model Crystal Valley Patriot VIN/Serial#: CV819ABIN Commonly known as 8797 S. Clark Rd., Nashville MI 49073 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 12/20/2012 CitiMortgage, Inc., Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File No: 12-72844 (1277573324 20)(01-10) FORECLOSURE NOTICE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for this purpose. If you are in the Military, please contact our office at the number listed below. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by: Diane Dallas, A Single Female to Option One Mortgage Corporation, Mortgagee, dated October 25, 2002 and recorded November 25, 2002 in Instrument # 1092382 and corrected by affidavit dated November 19, 2012 and recorded November 29, 2012 in Instrument #2012-007635 Barry County Records, Michigan Said mortgage was assigned to: Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Trustee for Option One Mortgage Loan Trust 2003-1 Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2003-1, by assignment dated July 20, 2007 and recorded July 30, 2007in Instrument # 200707300000298 on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twenty-One Thousand Eight Hundred Sixty-Four Dollars and Fourteen Cents ($121,864.14) including interest 7.5% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, Circuit Court of Barry County at 1:00PM on January 17, 2013 Said premises are situated in Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That part of the Northeast one-quarter of section 28, Town 3 north, range 8 west, described as, commencing at the intersection of the north line of said section and the centerline of Nashville Road (highway M-79) which is 1094.5 feet west along the North line of said section from the northeast corner of said section, thence south 23 degrees 45 minutes east 200.71 feet along the centerline of said road, thence southeasterly 410.72 feet along said centerline on a 1227.77 foot radius curve to the left, the chord of which bears south 33 degrees 20 minutes East 408.80 feet, thence south 42 degrees 55 minutes east 127.71 feet along the centerline of said road, thence south 47 degrees 05 minutes west 834 feet more or less to the east line of the west onehalf of the northeast one-quarter, thence South along the East line of the West one-half of the Northeast one-quarter 1447 feet more or less to the southeast corner of the west one-half of the northeast one-quarter, thence west along the east and west one-quarter line 313.5 feet more or less to the southwest corner of the east 19 acres of the west one-half of the Northeast one-quarter, thence north along the west line of the east 19 acres of the west one-half of the Northeast one-quarter 2640 feet more or less to the North line of said section, thence East 532 feet more or less to the place of beginning, subject to the right of way for highway purposes over the north 33 feet and over that part lying northeasterly of a line which is 33 feet southwesterly from and parallel with the centerline of Nashville Road (highway M-79) Commonly known as 1890 Nashville Rd, Hastings MI 49058 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 or MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale, or upon the expiration of the notice required by MCL 600.3241a(c), whichever is later; or unless MCL 600.3240(17) applies. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: 12/20/2012 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Trustee for Option One Mortgage Loan Trust 20031 Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2003-1, Assignee of Mortgagee Attorneys: Potestivo & Associates, P.C. 811 South Blvd. Suite 100 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 844-5123 Our File 77573313 No: 12-66766 (12-20)(01-10) IF YOU ARE NOW ON ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT 248-502-1502. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Warren Searles, Charlotte Searles, husband and wife and Thomas J. Alvey and Christina N. Alvey, husband and wife, to Fifth Third Mortgage - MI, LLC, Mortgagee, dated August 10, 2005 and recorded October 20, 2005 in Instrument Number 1154900, and , Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Fifth Third Mortgage Company by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Nine Thousand Eighty-Five and 59/100 Dollars ($109,085.59) including interest at 6.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the Barry County Circuit Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan in Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 PM on JANUARY 3, 2013. Said premises are located in the Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: The land referred to is situated in the Township of Hope, County of Barry, State of Michigan, is described as follows:Parcel C: That part of the South 64 rods of the Southeast 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 27, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, described as: Commencing at the Southeast corner of said Section 27; thence North 88 degrees 59 minutes 06 seconds West on the South Section line 867.54 feet; thence North 0 degrees 31 minutes 30 seconds East 534.59 feet; thence North 3 degrees 03 minutes 18 seconds East 30.26 feet to the Place of Beginning of the parcel of land herein described; thence North 3 degrees 03 minutes 18 seconds East 491.48 feet; thence South 88 degrees 59 minutes 06 seconds East parallel to the South Section line 481.53 feet; thence South 1 degree 15 minutes 00 seconds West 491.40 feet; thence North 88 degrees 59 minutes 06 seconds West parallel to the South section line 498.34 feet to the Place of Beginning. Together with and subject to an easement for ingress, egress and public utilities over a 66 foot wide strip of land the centerline of said easement being described as commencing at the Southeast corner of said Section 27, thence North 88 degrees 59 minutes 06 seconds West 867.54 feet to the Point of Beginning of said easement; thence the centerline of said easement runs North 0 degrees 31 minutes 30 seconds East 534.59 feet; thence North 3 degrees 03 minutes 18 seconds East 250.56 feet to the Point of Beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages, if any, are limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: December 6, 2012 Orlans Associates, P.C.. Attorneys for Servicer P.O. Box 5041 Troy, MI 48007 File No. 12-510737 77572910 (12-06)(12-27) NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE Default having occurred in two mortgages both made on July 31, 2007, by Michele E. Pare, a single woman, to Union Bank, and both recorded on August 7, 2007, in the Barry County Register of Deeds at Document 20070807 - 0000592, and at Document 20070808-0000654, respectively, on which mortgages there is claimed to be due and unpaid as of December 5, 2012, Two Hundred Nineteen Thousand, Eight Hundred Seventy Nine Dollars and 89/100 Dollars ($219,879.89) principal and interest; no suit or proceedings at law or in equity have been instituted to recover the debt, or any part of the debt, secured by the above mortgages, and the Power of Sale contained in the mortgages having become operative by reason of such default and pursuant to the statutes of the State of Michigan. Notice is hereby given that on Thursday, January 17, 2013, at 1:00 p.m. at the Barry County Courthouse, 220 W. State St., Hastings, MI, 49058, that being the place for holding the Circuit Court of Barry County, there will be offered for sale and sold to the highest bidder the property described in this Notice, at public sale, for the purpose of satisfying the amount due and unpaid on the mortgages, together with an interest rate at 10.75%, the expenses and charges of sale, including reasonable attorney fees, provided by law and in the mortgages, and also any sums which may be paid by the Mortgagee necessary to protect its interest in the premises. The parcel will be sold as one unit, as allowed by the mortgages unless otherwise selected by Union Bank. The land and premises in the mortgages mentioned is described as follows: LOTS 50 AND 51 OF ALGONQUIN LAKE RESORT PROPERTIES #1, ACCORDING TO RECORDED PLAT THEREOF, AS RECORDED IN LIBER 2 OF PLATS ON PAGE 56, BARRY COUNTY RECORDS The Real Property is commonly known as 2359 Old lroquois Trail, Hastings, MI 49058. The tax identification number is 08-13-050-05500. The length of the redemption period wilt be six months or shorter if deemed abandoned pursuant to law. If the property is sold at a foreclosure sale pursuant to this Notice, then under MCLA 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person that buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. MORTGAGEE: Union Bank Prepared By: Peter A. Teholiz (P34265) THE HUBBARD LAW FIRM, P.C. 5801 W. Michigan Avenue Lansing, MI 48908-0857 77573303 Telephone: 517-886-7176 Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Chadwick M. Castine, a single man and Sharon Sinkler, a single woman, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., Mortgagee, dated December 24, 2004, and recorded on December 29, 2004 in instrument 1139383, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P. fka Countrywide Home Loans Servicing, L.P. as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Seven Thousand Four Hundred Sixteen and 75/100 Dollars ($107,416.75). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on January 3, 2013. Said premises are situated in Township of Thornapple, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: That part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 22, Town 4 North, Range 10 West, described as: Commencing at the intersection of the centerline of Finkbeiner Road and the North line of said Section which is 748.40 feet North 88 degrees 53 minutes 45 seconds East for the North 1/4 corner of said Section; thence South 42 degrees 11 minutes 15 seconds East 410.00 feet along the centerline of Finkbeiner Road, thence South 47 degrees 48 minutes 45 seconds West 260.00 feet; thence North 42 degrees 11 minutes 15 seconds West 410.00 thence North 47 degrees 48 minutes 15 seconds East 260.00 feet to the place of beginning: Except that part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 22, Town 4 North, Range 10 described as: Commencing at the North 1/4 corner of said Section; West thence North 88 degrees 53 minutes 45 seconds East 748.40 feet along the North line of said Section thence South 42 degrees 11 minutes 15 seconds East 256.0 feet along the centerline of Finkbeiner Road to the place of beginning; thence continuing South 42 degrees 11 minutes 15 seconds East 154.0 feet along centerline; thence South 47 degrees 48 minutes 45 seconds West 260.00 feet; thence North 42 degrees 11 minutes 15 seconds West 154.0 feet; thence North 47 degrees 48 minutes 45 seconds East 260.0 feet to the place of beginning. Subject to highway right of way for highway purposes over that part lying Northeasterly of a line which is 33 feet Southwesterly from and parallel with the centerline of Finkbeiner Road The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: December 6, 2012 For more information, please call: FC X (248) 593-1302 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #412369F01 77572750 (12-06)(12-27) Notice Of Mortgage Foreclosure Sale THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. MORTGAGE SALE - Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Lisa Stocks, unmarried, original mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated November 8, 2007, and recorded on January 17, 2008 in instrument 200801170000545, and assigned by said Mortgagee to Wells Fargo Bank, NA as assignee as documented by an assignment, in Barry county records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Seven Thousand Three Hundred Seventy-Five and 88/100 Dollars ($97,375.88). Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue, at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on January 10, 2013. Said premises are situated in Charter Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Lots 45 and 46, Melody Acres, according to the plat thereof recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 21, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: December 13, 2012 For more information, please call: FC D (248) 593-1309 Trott & Trott, P.C. Attorneys For Servicer 31440 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334-2525 File #216699F03 77573121 (12-13)(01-03) FORECLOSURE NOTICE RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES, P.C. MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICEMEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY NOW OR IN THE PRIOR NINE MONTHS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE. Mortgage Sale - Default has been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by Richard Popenhagen And Rachel Popenhagen, Husband And Wife to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for Novastar Mortgage, Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 3, 2007, and recorded on January 24, 2007, as Document Number: 1175527, Barry County Records, said mortgage was assigned to Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for NovaStar Mortgage Funding Trust, Series 2007-1 NovaStar Home Equity Loan Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2007-1 by an Assignment of Mortgage dated October 01, 2012 and recorded October 11, 2012 by Document Number: 2012-005616, , on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Twelve Thousand Four Hundred Eighty-Five and 22/100 ($112,485.22) including interest at the rate of 8.62500% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, at the place of holding the Circuit Court in said Barry County, where the premises to be sold or some part of them are situated, at 01:00 PM on January 17, 2013 Said premises are situated in the Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: THE FOLLOWING DESCRIBED PREMISES SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF, COUNTY OF BARRY AND STATE OF TO WIT: BEGINNING AT THE EAST QUARTER POST OF SECTION 27, TOWN 1 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST; THENCE SOUTH 87 DEGREES 14 MINUTES 21 SECONDS WEST, ALONG THE EAST AND WEST QUARTER LINE OF SAID SECTION 27, A DISTANCE OF 664.55 FEET; THENCE NORTH 02 DEGREES 22 MINUTES 01 SECONDS WEST ALONG THE WEST LINE OF THE EAST HALF OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF THE NORTHEAST QUARTER OF SAID SECTION 27, A DISTANCE OF 1335.21 FEET TO THE NORTH LINE OF SAID SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF THE NORTHEAST QUARTER OF SAID SECTION; THENCE NORTH 87 DEGREES 34 MINUTES 45 SECONDS EAST ALONG SAID NORTH LINE, 205.17 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 02 DEGREES 20 MINUTES 09 SECONDS EAST, 284.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 87 DEGREES 34 MINUTES 45 SECONDS EAST, 460.14 FEET TO THE EAST LINE OF SAID SECTION 27; THENCE SOUTH ALONG SAID EAST SECTION LINE, 1047.27 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. SUBJECT TO EXISTING ROADWAY EASEMENT FOR HUTCHINSON ROAD ON THE EAST AND HICKORY ROAD ON THE SOUTH. SUBJECT TO ALL EASEMENTS, RESERVATIONS, COVENANTS, CONDITIONS, AGREEMENTS OF RECORD, IF ANY. Commonly known as: 14300 Hutchinson Road If the property is eventually sold at foreclosure sale, the redemption period will be 6.00 months from the date of sale unless the property is abandoned or used for agricultural purposes. If the property is determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 and/or 600.3241a, the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of sale, or 15 days after statutory notice, whichever is later. If the property is presumed to be used for agricultural purposes prior to the date of the foreclosure sale pursuant to MCL 600.3240, the redemption period is 1 year. Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower(s) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages are, if any, limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. If you are a tenant in the property, please contact our office as you may have certain rights. Dated: December 20, 2012 Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for NovaStar Mortgage Funding Trust, Series 2007-1 NovaStar Home Equity Loan Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2007-1 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302, 248-335-9200 77573308 Case No. 12OMI01272-1 (12-20)(01-10) SCHNEIDERMAN & SHERMAN, P.C., IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT (248)539-7400 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. MORTGAGE SALE – Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by RICHIE L. SMITH and FAYE L. SMITH, HUSBAND AND WIFE, to UNITED COMPANIES LENDING CORPORATION, Mortgagee, dated September 11, 1998, and recorded on September 17, 1998, in Document No. 1018002, and assigned by said mortgagee to The Bank of New York Mellon, f/k/a The Bank of New York, as successor-in-interest to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Trustee for Bear Stearns Asset Backed Securities Trust 2006-2, Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2006-2, as assigned, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Forty-Five Thousand One Hundred Forty-Eight Dollars and Sixty-Seven Cents ($45,148.67), including interest at 9.750% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public venue, At the East doors of the Barry County Courthouse in Hastings, Michigan at 01:00 PM o'clock, on January 17, 2013 Said premises are located in Barry County, Michigan and are described as: COMMENCING AT THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF THE SOUTHWEST 1 / 4 OF SECTION 1, TOWN 1 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST, RUNNING THENCE NORTH 50 RODS; THENCE WEST 48 RODS; THENCE SOUTH 50 RODS; THENCE EAST 48 RODS TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. EXCEPT THE EAST 330 FEET OF THE SOUTH 330 FEET THEREOF. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with 1948CL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 600 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. The Bank of New York Mellon, f/k/a The Bank of New York, as successor-in-interest to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Trustee for Bear Stearns Asset Backed Securities Trust 2006-2, Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2006-2 Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman, P.C. 23938 Research Drive, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, MI 48335 JPMC.001103 CONV 77573318 (12-20)(01-10) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THIS FIRM IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. MORTGAGE SALE: Default having been made in the conditions of certain Mortgage made by JUDITH L. MILAN, a single woman, of 1270 Norway Avenue, Hastings, MI 49058, to THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, acting through Rural Development, United States Department of Agriculture, with its Office being located at 4300 Goodfellow Blvd., Building 105, FC215, St. Louis, MO, 63120, the Mortgagee, the Mortgage being dated May 8, 1996, and recorded May 10, 1996, in Liber 659, Page 988 in Barry County Records, and the borrower having assumed a mortgage between ARCHIE L. LEATHERMAN and THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, acting through Rural Development, United States Department of Agriculture, the Mortgage being dated May 3, 1993 in Liber 570, Page 865, Barry County Records, such Mortgage being given to secure Promissory Note payable to the Government, and by reason of such default the Mortgagee elects to declare the entire unpaid amount of such Mortgage due and payable forthwith, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due as of December 6, 2012, for principal, interest and other charges, the sum of SIXTY NINE THOUSAND, NINE HUNDRED EIGHTY-SIX AND 92/100 ($69,986.92) DOLLARS, and no proceedings having been instituted at law or equity to recover the debt now remaining secured by said Mortgage, or any part thereof, whereby the power of sale contained in said Mortgage has become operative; Now, Therefore, Notice is Hereby Given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in said Mortgage and in pursuance of the statute of the State of Michigan in such case made and provided, the said Mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the premises therein described, or so much thereof as may be necessary, at public auction, to the highest bidder, at the east steps of the County Courthouse at 220 W. STATE STREET, in the City of Hastings, County of Barry, Michigan, that being the place of holding the Circuit Court in and for said County, on THURSDAY, JANUARY 17, 2013 at 1:00 p.m., local time, and said premises will be sold to pay the amount due as aforesaid on the Mortgage together with 6.75% interest, legal costs, attorneys' fees and also any taxes and insurance that said Mortgagee does pay on or prior to the date of said sale; which said premises described in said Mortgage are situated in the State of Michigan, Barry County and are described as: A parcel of land in the Southwest onequarter of Section 2, T3N, R9W, Described as: Beginning at the Southeast corner of Lot 70 of the Plat of Smith’s Lakeview Estate No. 1 as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Page 2 in County Records, and running thence North 00 degrees 08 minutes East 109.48’ to the Southernmost corner of Lot 65 of said Plat; thence North 49 degrees 51 minutes East 167.19’ to the Easternmost corner of said Lot 65; thence South 40 degrees 09 minutes East 100’; thence South 49 degrees 51 minutes West 219.31’; thence North 88 degrees 42 minutes 30 seconds West 24.90’ to the POB. Being a part of outlot L. Rights of the public and of any governmental unit in any part thereof taken used or deeded for street, road or highway purposes. Right of way in favor of Consumers Power Company, recorded in Liber 356, Page 354, and in Liber 356, on page 520. Right of way to Michigan Bell Telephone Company recorded in Liber 354, Page 329. Also described as: Lot 81, Amended Plat of Part of the Northwesterly Portion of Outlot E, Smith’s Lakeview Estates No. 1, according to the plat thereof recorded in Liber 6 of Plats, Page 46, Barry County Records. During the six (6) months immediately following the sale, the property may be redeemed unless the property is abandoned, in which case the redemption shall be thirty (30) days from the date of sale. According to MCL §600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. For further information with regard to this foreclosure, contact USDA - Rural Development, Centralized Servicing Center, Foreclosure Centralization Initiative, 4300 Goodfellow Blvd., Building 105, FC-215, St. Louis, MO, 63120, telephone (800) 349-5097 ext. 4500. Dated: December 6, 2012 UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, acting through the Farmers Home Administration (now Rural Development), United States Department of Agriculture, Mortgagee Michael I. Conlon (P43954) Running, Wise, Ford, P.L.C. 326 E. State Street, P.O. Box 686 Traverse City, MI 49685-0686 (1206)(12-27) 77572892 �Page 10 — Thursday, December 27, 2012 — The Hastings Banner PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF SPECIAL ASSESSMENT HEARING TO: 77573280 THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF PRAIRIEVILLE, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that as a result of petitions of property owners within the Township signed by the record owners of land constituting more than fifty (50%) percent of the total area of the hereinafter described proposed special assessment district, and upon motion of the Township Board of the Township of Prairieville, the Township Board proposes to undertake an aquatic plant control project in Pine Lake in Prairieville Township and to create a special assessment district for the recovery of the costs thereof by special assessment against the properties benefitted therein. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the District within which the above-mentioned improvements are proposed to be made and within which the cost thereof is proposed to be assessed is more particularly described as follows: The properties indicated by tax parcel numbers: 12-005-001-00 12-005-003-00 12-005-004-00 12-005-006-00 12-005-200-00 12-006-003-25 12-006-003-26 12-006-003-30 12-006-003-40 12-006-005-60 12-006-006-00 12-006-007-00 12-006-008-00 12-006-009-00 12-006-010-00 12-006-011-00 12-006-012-00 12-006-013-00 12-006-014-00 12-006-015-10 12-006-015-20 12-006-016-00 12-006-016-05 12-006-016-10 12-006-016-20 12-006-016-30 12-006-016-40 12-006-016-50 12-006-016-60 12-006-017-05 12-006-017-10 12-006-017-15 12-006-017-20 12-006-017-30 12-006-017-35 12-006-020-00 12-006-021-10 12-006-025-00 12-006-026-00 12-006-027-00 12-006-028-00 12-006-029-00 12-006-031-00 12-006-036-00 12-006-037-00 12-006-038-00 12-006-039-00 12-006-040-00 12-006-041-00 12-006-042-00 12-006-043-00 12-006-044-00 12-006-045-00 12-006-046-00 12-006-047-00 12-006-048-00 12-006-049-00 12-006-051-00 12-006-052-00 12-006-053-00 12-006-054-00 12-006-056-00 12-006-057-00 12-006-058-00 12-006-060-00 12-006-061-00 12-006-063-00 12-006-063-10 12-006-064-00 12-006-068-00 12-006-069-00 12-006-070-00 12-006-071-00 12-006-072-00 12-006-073-00 12-006-074-00 12-006-075-00 12-006-076-00 12-006-077-00 12-006-078-00 12-006-079-00 12-006-080-00 12-006-081-00 12-006-082-00 12-006-083-00 12-006-084-00 12-006-085-00 12-006-086-00 12-006-088-00 12-006-089-00 12-006-343-00 12-007-001-00 12-007-002-00 12-007-003-00 12-007-004-00 12-007-005-00 12-007-006-00 12-007-006-10 12-007-006-40 12-007-006-45 12-007-006-50 12-007-006-65 12-007-006-70 12-007-006-81 12-007-006-95 12-007-009-10 12-007-009-20 12-007-009-30 12-007-009-40 12-007-011-00 12-007-012-00 12-008-001-00 12-008-002-00 12-008-003-00 12-008-004-00 12-008-005-00 12-008-014-00 12-008-015-00 12-008-015-10 12-008-016-00 12-008-017-00 12-008-018-10 12-008-018-35 12-008-018-40 12-008-019-00 12-008-020-00 12-008-021-00 12-008-321-00 12-008-324-00 12-090-001-00 12-090-002-00 12-090-003-00 12-090-004-00 12-090-005-00 12-090-006-00 12-120-001-00 12-120-002-00 12-120-003-00 12-120-004-00 12-120-005-00 12-120-006-00 12-120-007-00 12-120-008-00 12-120-009-00 12-140-001-00 12-140-002-00 12-140-003-00 12-140-004-00 12-140-005-00 12-140-007-00 12-150-001-00 12-150-002-00 12-150-003-00 12-150-004-00 12-150-006-00 12-150-008-00 12-150-008-10 12-160-001-00 12-160-003-00 12-160-006-00 12-160-007-00 12-160-008-00 12-160-009-00 12-160-010-00 12-160-012-00 12-160-013-00 12-160-014-00 12-160-015-00 12-160-016-00 12-160-017-00 12-160-019-00 12-170-001-00 12-170-002-00 12-170-002-10 12-170-002-20 12-170-003-00 12-170-004-00 12-170-005-00 12-170-006-00 12-170-007-00 12-170-008-00 12-180-000-00 12-180-001-00 12-180-001-10 12-180-002-00 12-180-004-00 12-180-005-00 12-180-006-00 12-180-007-00 12-180-009-00 12-180-010-00 12-180-011-00 12-180-013-00 12-180-014-00 12-180-015-00 12-180-016-00 12-180-017-00 12-180-018-00 12-180-019-00 12-180-020-00 12-180-021-00 12-180-021-10 12-180-022-01 12-180-023-01 12-180-023-10 12-180-024-00 12-180-025-00 12-180-026-00 12-180-027-00 12-180-028-00 12-180-029-00 12-180-030-00 12-180-031-00 12-180-032-00 12-180-033-00 12-180-034-00 12-180-035-00 12-180-036-00 12-180-037-00 12-180-038-00 12-180-039-00 12-180-040-00 12-180-041-00 12-180-042-00 12-180-043-00 12-180-044-00 12-180-045-00 12-180-046-00 12-180-047-00 12-180-048-00 12-180-049-00 12-190-001-00 12-190-002-00 12-190-003-00 12-190-004-00 12-190-005-00 12-190-006-00 12-190-007-00 12-190-008-00 12-190-009-00 12-190-012-00 12-190-013-00 12-190-014-00 12-190-015-00 12-190-016-00 12-190-017-00 12-190-018-00 12-190-020-00 12-190-021-00 12-190-022-00 12-190-022-10 12-190-022-20 12-190-023-00 12-260-000-00 12-260-001-00 12-260-002-00 12-260-005-00 12-260-006-00 12-260-007-00 12-260-008-00 12-260-009-00 12-260-010-00 12-260-011-00 12-260-012-00 12-260-013-00 12-260-014-00 12-270-001-00 12-270-002-00 12-270-003-00 12-270-003-05 12-270-004-00 12-270-005-00 12-270-005-10 12-290-001-00 12-290-002-00 12-290-003-00 12-290-004-00 12-290-005-00 12-290-005-10 12-290-006-00 12-290-007-00 12-290-008-00 12-290-010-00 12-290-011-00 12-290-012-00 12-290-013-01 12-290-014-01 12-290-015-00 12-290-016-00 12-290-017-00 12-290-018-00 12-290-019-00 12-290-020-00 12-290-021-00 12-290-022-00 12-290-023-00 12-290-024-00 12-290-025-00 12-290-027-00 12-290-028-00 12-290-031-00 12-290-032-00 12-290-032-10 12-290-033-00 12-290-034-00 12-290-034-20 12-290-034-35 12-290-035-00 12-290-036-00 12-290-037-00 12-290-038-00 12-290-039-00 12-290-039-20 12-290-040-00 12-290-042-00 12-290-044-00 12-290-045-00 12-290-046-00 12-290-047-00 12-290-048-00 12-290-049-00 12-290-049-10 12-290-050-30 12-290-050-35 12-290-053-00 12-290-054-01 12-290-054-02 12-290-055-01 12-290-056-00 12-290-056-10 12-290-057-00 12-290-058-00 12-290-059-00 12-290-060-00 12-290-061-00 12-290-062-00 12-290-063-00 12-290-064-00 12-290-065-00 12-310-001-00 12-310-002-00 12-310-003-00 12-310-004-00 12-310-005-00 12-310-006-00 12-310-006-90 12-310-007-00 12-310-008-00 12-310-009-00 12-310-010-00 12-310-011-00 12-310-012-00 12-310-013-00 12-310-014-00 12-310-015-00 12-310-016-00 12-310-017-00 12-310-018-00 12-310-019-00 12-310-020-00 12-310-021-00 12-310-022-00 12-310-023-00 12-310-024-00 12-310-025-00 12-310-026-00 12-310-120-00 12-320-001-00 12-320-001-40 12-320-001-60 12-320-002-00 12-320-003-00 12-320-004-00 12-320-006-00 12-320-007-00 12-320-008-00 12-320-010-00 12-320-010-30 12-320-011-00 12-320-012-00 12-320-013-00 12-320-014-00 12-320-015-00 12-320-016-00 12-320-017-00 12-320-018-00 12-320-019-00 12-320-019-10 12-320-020-00 12-320-020-10 12-320-021-00 12-320-021-10 12-320-024-00 12-320-026-00 12-320-026-10 12-320-026-20 12-320-026-40 12-320-026-60 12-320-029-00 12-320-029-10 12-320-029-20 12-320-030-00 12-320-031-00 12-320-032-00 12-320-033-00 12-320-035-00 12-320-036-00 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12-540-016-00 12-540-017-00 12-540-018-00 12-540-019-00 12-540-020-00 12-540-021-00 12-540-022-00 12-540-023-00 12-540-024-00 12-540-025-00 See also accompanying map. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Township Board has received plans describing the improvements and locations thereof together with an estimate of the cost of the project in the amount of $227,135, has placed the same on file with the Township Clerk and has passed a Resolution tentatively declaring its intention to undertake such project and to create the afore-described special assessment district and has further tentatively found the Petitions for the project to be in compliance with statutory requirements. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the petitions, plans, cost estimate, and special assessment district may be examined at the Office of the Township Clerk from the date of this Notice until and including the date of the public hearing thereon and may further be examined at such public hearing. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that, in accordance with Act 162 of the Public Acts of 1962, as amended, appearance and protest at the hearing in the special assessment proceedings is required in order to appeal the amount of the special assessment to the Michigan Tax Tribunal. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that an owner or party in interest, or his or her agent, may appear in person at the hearing to protest the special assessment, or shall be permitted to file at or before the hearing his or her appearance or protest by letter and his or her personal appearance shall not be required. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that in the event that written objections to the project are filed with the Township Board at or before the hearing described herein, signed by the record owners of land constituting more than twenty (20%) percent of the total area within the hereinbefore described proposed special assessment district, the project to be funded by that special assessment district cannot be instituted unless a valid petition has been or is filed with the Township Board signed by the record owners of land constituting more than fifty (50%) percent of the total land area in that special assessment district as finally established by the Township Board. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that a public hearing upon such petitions, plans, special assessment district and estimate of costs will be held at LGI (Large Group Instruction) Auditorium at Delton-Kellogg High School at 327 N. Grove Street, Delton, Michigan, commencing at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, January 7, 2013. At such hearing, the Board will consider any written objections to any of the foregoing matters which might be filed with the Board at or prior to the time of the hearing as well as any revisions, corrections, amendments, or changes to the plans, estimate of costs, or to the aforementioned proposed Special Assessment District. All interested persons are invited to be present and express their views at the public hearing. Prairieville Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed material being considered at the hearing, to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon four (4) days notice to the Prairieville Township Clerk. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Prairieville Township Clerk. Ted DeVries, Clerk Prairieville Township 10115 South Norris Road Delton, Michigan 49046 (269) 623-2664 COURT NEWS James Michael Grantham Jr., 19, of Alto was sentenced Dec. 19 in Barry County Circuit Court for assault with a dangerous weapon. Judge Amy McDowell ordered Grantham to serve 12 to 48 months in prison with credit for 99 days served. He must pay $198 in court assessments and have no contact with the victim. Charges of carrying a concealed weapon and habitual offender, second offense, were dropped by the Barry County Prosecutor’s office. Donald Duane Barnes, 38, of Battle Creek was sentenced in Barry County Circuit Court Dec. 19, for operating under the influence of liquor, third offense. Judge Amy McDowell ordered Barnes to serve 71 days in jail with credit for 71 days served. Barnes must pay $1,948 in court assessments and serve 36 months on probation. He must pay $120 per month toward assessments, participate in drug court and day reporting. Charges of operating with driver’s license suspended, revoked or denied, second or subsequent offense, and unlawful use of a license plate, registration or title were dropped by the prosecutor’s office. Dustin Michael Kopf, 31, of Hastings was sentenced Dec. 19 in Barry County Circuit Court for breaking and entering with intent. Judge Amy McDowell ordered Kopf to serve 12 months in jail with credit for two days served. Kopf must pay $1,448 in court assessments and serve 36 months on probation. The last six months of jail his jail time will be suspended pending successful completion of probation. A work release was granted. He must pay $100 a month toward assessments. Charges of home invasion, second degree; conspiracy of a legal act in an illegal manner; and receiving or concealing stolen property of $1,000 to $20,000 were dropped by the Barry County Prosecutor. Levi Kenneth Pinks, 25, of Plainwell was sentenced in Barry County Circuit Court Dec. 19 for a probation violation and charges of home invasion, second degree; unlawful drive-away of a vehicle; and operating with driver’s license suspended. Judge Amy McDowell ordered Pinks to serve 23 to 180 months in prison with credit for 295 days served. He must pay $2,493 in court assessments. LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 2012-26269-DE Estate of KENNETH L. BELL. Date of birth: 0820-29. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, KENNETH L. BELL, died 7-2-12. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Patrick S. Hirzel, 835 W. Golden Avenue, Battle Creek, MI 49014, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court St., Ste. 302, Hastings, MI 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: December 21, 2012 Patrick S. Hirzel P23884 835 Golden Avenue Battle Creek, MI 49014 269-963-8484 Patrick S. Hirzel 835 Golden Avenue Battle Creek, MI 49014 77573422 269-963-8484 SYNOPSIS RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP REGULAR BOARD MEETING DECEMBER 12, 2012 -7:30 P.M. Regular meeting called to order and Pledge of Allegiance. Present: Greenfield, Walters, Carr, Bellmore, Hawthorne, Hanshaw, Flint Approved the Agenda as presented. Approved the Consent Agenda as presented. Reappointed Bellmore to the Planning Commission. Appointed A. Muma and reappointed R. Schaubel and M. Anger to the Board of Review. Adopted Resolution #2012-159, 2013 Board Meeting and Holiday schedule. Adopted Resolution #2012-160, 2013 Compensation Resolution. Adopted Resolution #2012-161, 2013 Budget Resolution. Approved a prepayment to Professional Lake Management for Algonquin Lake Weed Control. Appointed Siegfried Crandall for the 2012 Audit. Authorized Supervisor Carr to list the remaining parcels owned by the township with a realtor. Meeting Adjourned at 8:22p.m. Respectfully submitted, Robin Hawthorne, Clerk Attested to by, Jim Carr, Supervisor 77573340 www.rutlandtownship.org �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, December 27, 2012 — Page 11 Community leader shares perspective on troubling event by David DeDecker Staff Writer Because of his years of experience and service in the areas of faith, education and healthcare, Michael Anton, retired pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Hastings, provides an intriguing perspective on today’s world and, specifically, on the tragic events of Dec. 14 in Newtown, Conn. His observations during a recent interview with the Banner, adds illumination to a difficult retrospective. “I think beyond the gut reaction as a human being, citizen, and member of this national community, as a religious leader and, particularly, as a leader in a congregation that is part of the tradition of Christian faith, it would be really important number one, to be present,” says Anton, “and not to provide any type of supposed rationale for why this incident took place.” Anton, who continues to serve churches as a substitute clergy when the need arises, says comments by politicians such as “Newtown happened because we have taken God out of the schools, etc.” is not appropriate during a crisis such as this. Nor, says Anton, is telling a person, “This is God’s plan and all you need is faith.” “Be respectful of all the people who are directly involved,” says the pastor who’s also served his community in other capacities including terms on the Hastings Board of Education and the Pennock Health Board of Directors. “Be respectful of their feelings. Acknowledge their feelings. Don’t try to change their feelings. Recognize these are real feelings. “If the people are saying they don’t believe in God and don’t believe God could do something like this, just listen. Just be there, this is not a time for theological speeches, lectures and sermons. Be with them and allow them to evolve in their own process of healing, and let them express their feelings of pain. When they are ready to talk about their faith or God again, you will be there to listen and be responsive. That for me, from a pastoral standpoint, would be primary.” The type of act which took 26 innocent lives and claimed the life of the shooter is beyond comprehension says Anton. He expressed his concern about people using simple answers for such a complex situation. “Anybody with quick answers, quick solutions, or someone who simply says we are going to end this type of violence forever, is so unrealistic,” observes Anton. “It doesn’t speak to the needs of the people. My guess is there were many negative sermons in churches across this land. “The causes of this kind of evil machination are rooted in multiple corners, pushing both reasons and preventative solutions towards an ‘all of the above’ response.” Anton says one of the things a pastor needs to address with people is how we emotionally react to the acts of violence such as the most recent tragedy, to guns, and to gun control. He says there is no universal point of view on the matter within religious groups. One of the ways a congregational leader can help people, says Anton, is to lead a discussion. Anton explains that, when leading the discussion, recognizing family dynamics is critical. “I think many people are asking the question, ‘Why did his mother have an assault rifle?’ and maybe we will learn more or maybe we won’t.” he says. “Given the fact that there was a separation in the household, once he killed her, were the school children an extension of her? Were his feelings about his mother that negative? People need help recognizing how complex situations are and there are not just simple things to say or do.” Anton wonders how many suicides or homicides have been prevented by having easily accessible mental health services available. He says it is probably more common than the general public realizes and healthcare and mental health workers would agree mental health services are a vital resource within any community. “One of the upsetting factors in listening to the culture around you,” points out Anton, “is that some of the voices are so extreme. I remember when President Obama was elected in 2008 there was a statistical report that indicated firearm sales had increased many fold, POLICE BEAT BEA Thief even takes the empties Service rep asked too many questions Hastings Police responded Dec. 11 to a building in the 600 block of Hannah Lane for a reported larceny from a motor vehicle. Officers learned the caller’s vehicle was parked in her apartment parking lot, and when she returned, she noticed several items missing, including jewelry, cash, medication and empty pop cans. Police were told the vehicle had been left unlocked. There are no suspects at this time. A woman called deputies Dec. 12 to report that her ID had been stolen and someone had used her credit card to purchase items. The merchandise was sent to a Chicago address. According to the woman, her credit union called her Dec. 9 to inform her of many purchases made on the credit card. The credit union representatives said $671 of purchases had been made at Walmart online, and another $53 purchase was made from T-Mobile. The woman told deputies prior to the fraud she had been talking to a person at the Menards’ toll-free number about a purchase, and the person was asking a lot of unusual personal questions. When she confronted the phone sales representative, she said he got nervous and stopped asking those questions. A police report was filed, but the case is closed pending leads. Electronics get the brunt of argument Barry County Sheriff deputies were called to a residence on Cloverdale Road near Delton Dec. 4 for a domestic dispute. A 23-year-old Delton woman said she and her boyfriend had gotten into an argument and the 25-year-old man had shoved her into the wall. She told deputies she picked up their stereo and threw it. Reportedly, the man then picked up the television and threw it. She said when she began to walk out, the man picked her up to prevent her from leaving. According to the woman, the man then hit her in the face twice and she hit him back. She told deputies she tried to use the phone, but could not find it so she left the house and went down the road to a store to call her mother. The man told deputies there was some shoving, but no hitting. The case remains open and has been forwarded to the prosecutor’s office. Logging equipment may be scrapped A man reported Dec. 14 a number of items missing from his trailer on Bridge Park Road in Hastings. He told deputies two sets of logging chains valued at $500, a $250 come-along, and metal car ramps valued at $100 were taken from the trailer. There were no suspects, but the complainant told deputies he would be checking with Padnos about the items being sold as scrap metal. The case is inactive pending more information. Mom, daughter Teenager spices have different recall things up Deputies were called to a Bowens Mills Road home Dec. 17 for possible domestic assault. An adult daughter told deputies her mother had asked her to move out of the house, and she had started to pack up her belongings. She said her 52-year-old mother kept yelling at her and had pushed her. She told deputies it wasn’t a hard push, but she felt assaulted. Reportedly, that’s when the daughter grabbed as many of her belongings as she could and left the house to call 911. When deputies spoke with the mother, she said her daughter had come into the house yelling and trying to pick a fight. She said her daughter was out of control and would not stop yelling. The mother said she asked her daughter to leave and denied laying hands on her daughter. The case remains open and has been forwarded to the prosecutor’s office for review. Deputies were called to a South Marsh Road address in Shelbyville Dec. 4 for a possible narcotics investigation. In the home’s kitchen, a mother told deputies her 17-year-old son had thrown a plastic bag of “Spice” in the garbage can. She had told her son she didn’t want any drugs in the house, and he had thrown the baggy in the trash. He told his mother he didn’t want anything to do with it anymore, and that if he was acting weird it was because he had had 15 energy drinks that day. The teenager admitted to deputies he had purchased the substance as “Herbal Smoke” in Kalamazoo and smoked some. He said that after smoking a little bit he could not move. The unknown green substance was confiscated and sent to the Michigan State Police laboratory for analysis. The case has been turned over to the prosecutor’s office for review, and is open pending lab results. because there was conviction that the government was going to take guns away. “I could only look at that and not know whether to laugh or cry. Not in America -- it’s not going to happen. People are screaming about Socialism taking over and big government. Those are indeed issues of discussion, but nobody is going to take guns away. Particularly after the Supreme Court ruled the Second Amendment is inclusive of that right, whether or not everyone agrees with it. It’s not going to happen and nothing was done on gun control over the past four years. I do think there is a move to make better regulations, but that extreme voice seems so unnecessary to me. “Evil is a reality. However you think it originated, why it exists, or who started it. it’s here. People can call it by various names, but it’s here. Until that changes within human kind, it’s very sad to say, but Newtown is not the last. I think that’s a reality. “Now, what can we do to try to help alter more Newtowns? It seems to me there are so many complicating factors. Complex factors that enter into this such as family life, education, spirituality, and the legal side in terms regulation reform. “I am not a hunter. I don’t own a gun, but I am certainly not opposed to hunting or guns. What bothers me a great deal is a kind of macho American right ‘to own anything I want to own.’ I understand freedom, individual freedom, ends when it intrudes on another person’s freedom. My freedom essentially ends where it may potentially do you harm. Drawing an exact line is not simple or easy and I don’t know how we get that right. I am ignorant of the exact laws which regulate guns, they vary from state to state, but it seems it may be a place to start. There is a price for freedom, it is not free. Individuals are not just simply free to do whatever they want to do.” It’s been nearly 20 years since Anton served on the Hastings Area Schools Board of Education and he wouldn’t speak to the state of security in area schools today. He did concede that school security two or three decades ago was not locally a major concern. “Not anything like it has to be right now,” says Anton. “If we are to achieve some sort of Rev. Michael Anton served his community not only as a pastor, but as a school board member and as a trustee of the Pennock Hospital board. Even in retirement, his perspective is still widely sought. gun regulation is that going to solve it all? No. Locking school doors doesn’t obviously solve it all, even though it makes a more secure system. I talked to an elementary teacher from TK this week and she said they lock their classroom doors. That may be a more standard practice than I know. The young man [Sandy Hook Elementary] blasted his way through the locked door, but you do what you can do.” As the conclusion of his interview with the Banner nears, Anton observes, “Some of these shootings have occurred in churches. I am sure that if that happened to a congregation I was part of, I might very well have different feelings, but to think about security to the point of locking the door and having passwords [to get into church] would be very difficult for me. I know there are congregations which exist, particularly in high crime areas, that do have that type of security.” After the Dec. 20 interview, the Banner received an email from Anton explaining how he had just received an email update on the Concealed Weapon Bill from Gov. Snyder’s office. Anton wrote, “As I said, he [Gov. Snyder] might well have signed SB 59 if it had offered an exchange of deleting the right to carry weapons openly for the prohibition of concealing the same in gun-free zones. What I forgot was his requirement that the right to carry openly would be determined by the public or private property owners involved. That sort of ‘decision by individual or group’ would surely create a most confusing maze of ‘where I can’ and ‘where I can't,’ but his view advocates for that possibility. It’s a moot point now, but may surface later.” SOCIAL SECURITY, continued from page 8 my record? If you qualify for Social Security disability benefits, your children may receive dependent’s benefits based on your work record, even if they’re not disabled themselves. As long as you receive benefits, their benefits will continue until they reach age 18, or until age 19 if they are still in high school. If your children are disabled, however, at the time that they reach age 18, they may be able to continue receiving benefits into adulthood. For more information, visit our website on disability benefits at www.socialsecurity.gov/disability. I am 57 years old and I currently receive Social Security disability benefits. Can I still get my regular Social Security retirement benefits when I reach full retirement age? If you are still receiving Social Security disability benefits when you reach your full retirement age, we will automatically switch you from disability benefits to retirement benefits at that point. The money amount will remain the same. For more information, visit our website on disability benefits at www.socialsecurity.gov/disability. I’m 38 years old and have been approved to receive Supplemental Security Income disability benefits. I was surprised to learn that my payment will be reduced because I live with my mom. Why is that? SSI is a needs-based program, so any other income you receive — including non-monetary income such as help with your bills or other expenses — can have an effect on your benefit payment. Your SSI payments may be reduced if you are receiving food, shelter or monetary assistance. If you move, or if the situation in your mom’s household changes, be sure to contact Social Security. For more information, visit www.socialsecurity.gov/ssi. ‘Smuggling ring’ discovered in county jail I am trying to save up for a truck. I have $1,200 in the bank now and need a little more. How much cash can I have in the bank without affecting my Supplemental Security Income eligibility? The resource limit is $2,000. Unless you have other valuable resources, this means you could save up to $2,000 before you would become ineligible for SSI. We generally do Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 For Sale Business Services AFFORDABLE PROPANE FOR your home/farm/business. No delivery fees. Call for a free quote. Diamond Propane 269-367-9700 BASEMENT WATERPROOFING: PROFESSIONAL BASEMENT SERVICES waterproofing, crack repair, mold remediation. Local/licensed. Free estiDON’T PAY HIGH heating mates. (517)290-5556. bills. 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PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: Deputies at the Barry County Jail saw an inmate on garbage detail retrieve a book of matches in a plastic bag next to the jail’s dumpster. The matches led to an investigation of four jail inmates receiving tobacco from a man on the outside. Smoking and chewing tobacco were being placed near the jail’s dumpster to later be retrieved by inmates during kitchen detail. Arrangements were made by phone by an inmate. The first drop was the tobacco, but a second drop was needed for matches. A recorded phone conversation revealed details of the smuggling arrangements. The smuggler would not talk with deputies until a lawyer was present. The case was turned over to the prosecutor’s office. not count your primary car, the home you live in or certain amounts set aside for burial expenses as resources. In some cases, if the vehicle you’re saving for is part of a plan to return to work, you can have higher resources — but Social Security would need to approve your plan in order to exclude those resources. For more information, visit our webpage about SSI at www.socialsecurity.gov/ssi. All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. 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Please send resume to Lynne 645@gmail.com �Page 12 — Thursday, December 27, 2012 — The Hastings Banner Trojans topple Saxons in early conference clash by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The meetings between Thornapple Kellogg junior Austin Sensiba and Hastings junior Joe Siska in their team’s conference and district duals ended the same way last winter - with Sensiba on his back. Not this time. Now seniors, Sensiba took it to Siska Wednesday, outscoring him 9-4 in their 140pound bout during their OK Gold Conference dual. That win was a part of a four match run for the Trojans to start the dual, giving them a 13-0 lead, and TK went on to a 41-20 victory over the rival Saxons in Middleville. “That was a huge match and it’s something that Austin has been looking forward to I know,” said Thornapple Kellogg coach Scott Szczpanek. The Trojan coach has seen his senior 140pounder take some big strides since last winter. “He finishes a lot more. He doesn’t get to every position and think he’s got to end up with the guy on his back,” Szczpanek said. “He can move from one thing to the next thing. He can move in five different steps rather than just thinking we’re on our feet I’ve got to put him on his back. He has a much better game-plan I think.” TK started the dual with Ryan Flynn topping Zach Wilcox 5-1 at 125 pounds, Nick Flynn beating Ethan Haywood 6-2 at 130 The Saxons’ Joe Siska (bottom) begins to try and work his way out of the grasp of Thornapple Kellogg’s Austin Sensiba during the first period of their 140-pound match Wednesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) pounds, and Paul Haney besting Bret Thomas with a 12-3 major decision at 135. Hastings didn’t have a single take down in any of the first four bouts. Following Sensiba’s win, the Saxons rat- Hastings’ Ken Cross (left) takes down Thornapple Kellogg’s Cole Gahan during the third period of their 160-pound match in Middleville Wednesday night. (Photo by Brett Bremer) tled off three consecutive wins, getting a 4-1 win from Stephen Kendall over Nick Iveson at 145 pounds, a 14-4 major decision from Jason Slaughter over Nick Glowe at 152 pounds, and a 16-8 major decision from Ken Cross over Cole Gahan at 160. TK still led 13-11 after those three matches, and kept the lead all evening long thanks to consecutive pins from Dan Dykstra at 171 pounds, Pete Westra at 189 and Chad Geers at 215. “215 was also a big match,” Szczpanek said. “Chad Geers, this is his first year in the varsity line-up, but he’s a four-year wrestler. He’s just not had a spot, so it was kind of a little nervous seeing what his reaction would be. But he’s been doing a great job in the practice room and he wrestled like he does in practice which is tough and under control.” TK clinched the win over the Saxons when Ronaldo Sambrano scored a 14-1 major decision over David Hause in the 112-pound match. Even though the team victory was secure before he took the mat, TK state medalist Chris Poland still celebrated his pin of Nick Schaffer 22 seconds into the 119pound match with a clenched-fist roar towards the home crowd. Hastings added points thanks to Nate Pewoski’s pin at 285 pounds and Mitchell Sarhatt’s 8-6 win over Ryan Gorton at 103 pounds. The Saxons were without a couple of heavyweights, 171-pounder Chase Huisman and 189-pounder Cody Newton, but head coach Mike Goggins wasn’t sure their presence would have been quite enough to make up the 20-point difference. TK is now 10-1 overall this season, and 10 in the OK Gold Conference. Hastings is 1-1 in the league and 9-3 overall. The two teams met in one of the final duals of the conference season each of the past few years, making it a bit different for them to be meeting in December, but each of the coaches thought that was a bigger thing for the spectators than for their teams. “That’s just with the way the rotation works,” Goggins said. “It keeps getting moved forward farther and farther. It would have been the same kind of match (in January), maybe we would have had two in and they would have had two out, you just don’t know that. “The conference usually comes down to us two. We want to win the league. That doesn’t change. We can still win the league. We might be co-champions instead, but nothing has changed tomorrow that would have been. We’re going to practice tomorrow the same way we would have practiced whether we’d won or lost.” There should still be a big dual with major implications on the conference championship at the end of the league season. The Trojans will go to Grand Rapids Catholic Central Jan. 30, two days before the conference tournament, for a dual that was originally scheduled for last Wednesday. “Catholic Central, now the fortunate thing, we wrestle them before they get all the transfers that they’ve recruited into the building in,” Goggins said. “Middleville wrestles them afterwards, so it’s possible we could come into the league meet with the three of us all with one loss, then it’s a league meet then.” Hastings hosts Catholic Central Jan. 9. Szczepanek isn’t looking quite that far ahead yet. He said he gets just as anxious for league duals with Wayland and Ottawa Hills as he does for ones with Hastings and Catholic Central. “We need to make sure that we continue to do things that got us to this place, and we need to be better on December 20 than we were on December 19, and January 1 better than we were December 20,” Szczepanek said. TK returns to action Jan. 5 at Forest Hills Central High School. The Saxons will host the annual LH Lamb Tournament Jan. 5. The Saxons’ Mitchell Sarhatt tries to hold down the Trojans’ Ryan Gorton during the third period of their 103-pound match Wednesday, which Sarhatt eventually won 8-6 in overtime. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Lakewood edges Cavaliers by two in league dual by Brett Bremer Sports Editor There were wins, there were losses, and there were losses that were really wins for the Vikings. Lakewood’s varsity wrestling team improved to 2-0 in the Capital Area Activities Conference White Division with a 39-37 victory over Corunna at Lakewood High School Wednesday. Lakewood trailed 25-6 after the first six matches of the dual had been wrestled, but then scored five pins and one victorious decision in the next seven matches to clinch the victory. Senior Lars Pyrzinski finished off the Cavaliers by pinning Corey McKay 1 minute and 15 seconds into their 285-pound match, giving Lakewood a 39-31 edge with one bout left to be wrestled. Lakewood had Markus Temple score of pin of Zack Beach 2:40 into the 215-pound match, Garrett Phelps pin Cody Conklin 2:59 into the 171-pound match, Jordon Bennett pin Alex Hart 2:13 into the 152-pound match, and David Bibbler pin Mike Parker 1:09 into the 145-pound match. In all, the Vikings had six pins on the night. The Cavaliers had five. Both teams won half of the 14 bouts, seven each. Lakewood also had Justin Kietzman pin Dillion Birchmaier 3:57 into the 130-pound match. The only Viking to go six minutes for a win was Jack Tromp at 189 pounds. He decisioned Tyler Thayer 5-2. Avoiding a couple of pins at other flights was key to the Vikings’ scoring what head coach Bob Veitch thought of as an upset win. Logan Thomas was a conference champion for the Cavaliers last year, but couldn’t finish off Lakewood’s Dustin Johnson in the 119pound match. Johnson stayed off his shoulders to hold Thomas to a 10-0 major decision. At 140-pounds, Corunna state qualifier Dylan Cunningham was given fits by the Vikings’ Jeremy Innes before securing a 5-2 decision. Veitch also thought Phelps’ pin of Conklin was a big upset win for his team. “They just stepped up and did it for us, otherwise we wouldn’t have won that one,” Veitch said. Corunna got pins from Emillio Campos (112 pounds), Dylan Wibert (125), Dylan Cannon (135), Devin Robinson (160) and Tristan Sherbus (103) in the dual as well. The Vikings’ trip to Williamston Jan. 16 will be the biggest dual remaining on the league slate this season. The Vikings celebrated Veitch’s 600th career victory Wednesday, although he is well past that number once all of Lakewood’s postseason victories are added to the tally. “It takes good kids, a patient wife and a lot of years” to get that many victories, said Veitch. Lakewood is off now until heading to the LH Lamb Tournament in Hastings Jan. 5. Springport hands Maple Valley ladies their fifth loss Maple Valley’s varsity girls’ basketball team is 1-5 after a 48-23 loss to visiting Springport Friday night at Maple Valley High School. The Lions were held to just two points in the opening quarter, as the Spartans ran out to a 13-2 advantage. The Lions outscored the Spartans 8-6 in the second quarter, but the hole had already been dug. Springport came out in the second half and matched its point total from the entire first half, pushing its lead from 19-10 at the break to 38-19 heading into the fourth quarter. Ciara Sundermann led the Spartans with 13 points. Sam Bates had 12 and Kim Keeler eight. Olivia Ricketts, Timara Burd and Johanna Kyle had seven points each for the Lions in the loss. The Spartans improved to 5-2 with the win. The Lions are off now for the holildays and will return to action at home against Kalamazoo Christian Jan. 4. Lakewood 130-pounder Jordan Kietzman (top) works to put Corunna’s Dillion Birchmaier on his back during their match Wednesday at Lakewood High School. Lions finish December 5-0 by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Lions knew a sweep of their December schedule for a 5-0 start was possible. They just had to go out there and prove they could do it. The did. Maple Valley’s varsity boys’ basketball team is still undefeated after a 61-53 victory over visiting Springport Friday night. The Lions ran out to a 12-point lead in the first half, saw the Spartans battle back before the break, and then held them off in the second half. “Our full-court man-to-man pressure kind of made it very tough on Springport all night,” said Lion head coach Chris Ewing. Sam Benedict and Micah Bromley led that defensive charge. Benedict had eight steals in the contest and Bromley six. As a team, the Lions had 21 steals and forced 28 Springport turnovers. While the Lions put pressure on the Spartans all night, they put a little too much pressure on themselves in the second quarter. The Lions were up 12 with about three minutes to go in the first half, but turned the ball over seven times in a two minute span and went into the half up just four at 28-24. “We were just pushing the ball way too fast. We were out of control, and kind of forgot to bring the ball with us sometimes,” Ewing said. The Lions got settled down and it all worked out in the end. Maple Valley earned 30 free throws in the contest, and finished off the Spartans with a 10-of-17 performance at the line in the fourth quarter. Austin Gonser led the Lions for the night with 17 points and 16 rebounds. Garret Mater had 13 points, Bromley 11 and Tommy Mudge nine. Benedict added seven points, seven assists and seven rebounds to his impressive steal total. Springport got 18 points from T.C. Clark and 14 from Zach Keeler. The Lions are off now until Jan. 4 when they will play host to Kalamazoo Christian in a Kalamazoo Valley Association contest. Maple Valley is currently 3-0 in the conference. Ewing isn’t worried about any rust building up over the break. He thinks it will be good for some of his guys to rest up and heal for a while, and then get into smoothing some of the team’s rough edges before getting into the meat of the KVA season. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, December 27, 2012 — Page 13 TK digs out of hole, but Bulldogs hold on to win by Brett Bremer Sports Editor At first glance, the hole the Trojans dug themselves in the first quarter was just too much to climb out of. But it wasn’t. The Trojans did climb out. They just couldn’t stay out against Byron Trojan guard Tommy Hamilton crashes into Byron Center’s Quinn Humphrey as Humphrey’s teammate Cameron Shooltz (23) comes over to help out. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Center Friday night in Middleville. The Byron Center varsity boys’ basketball team scored a 51-47 win over the host Trojans in non-conference action. The Bulldogs led 23-10 late in the first quarter. “We dug ourselves a hole in that first quarter,” said TK head coach Mike Rynearson. “We just didn’t come out. They pressed us a little bit, and we looked like we’d never seen a press before and turned it over. We didn’t play with any kind of energy. We couldn’t stop the ball. Basically they did what they wanted to do.” The Trojans fought back though, pulling ahead 28-27 with 54 seconds left in the first half on a three-pointer by Louis Koepke which capped an 11-0 run by the Trojans. The Bulldogs raced the other way for a quick two points by Brandon Dinsmore though, then went on a 13-4 run in the fourth quarter to take control of the game back. Koepke’s three, which put his team up momentarily was one of seven threes TK hit in the ball game, on 25 attempts - a few too many for Rynearson. “Once they decided they wanted to start playing, we held them to six points there in the second quarter and got it right where we wanted,” Rynearson said. “Then we came out in the third quarter and they went to that 1-22 zone and we just, we got some looks out of it, but the bottom line is, we went to the free throw line four times. We didn’t do anything to try to go to the basket. We shot 25 threepointers, made seven of them, but basically what’s happening is we’re just chucking it up and we’re not getting second chances on those. They’re getting the rebound and running.” Grant Allison and Tommy Hamilton did try to attack the basket a bit. Allison had a bit of a tough time finishing, and Hamilton was in foul trouble all evening in large part because he was whistled for a charge three times. Hamilton still tied Cole Cronkright for the team lead with ten points. Allison, Clay Francisco and Koepke had eight points each. Byron Center got 13 points from both from the outside. We’ve got some young post players and they’re not real big, but we’ve still got to get them some touches. More people have to touch the ball. Right now, it’s too much one-on-one and quick shots, not enough touches and too many quick shots.” TK has some time to work out its kinks before it plays again. The Trojans are off until a contest against Plainwell Jan. 8. The Trojans are now 2-4 on the season. Byron Center’s Brandon Dinsmore (3) has to leap up to lob a pass over the trap of TK’s Grant Allison and Cole Cronkright (right) during the fourth quarter Friday night. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Sawyer Smith and Garrett Cross. Quinn Humphrey chipped in nine points for the Bulldogs. TK found its game a bit again in the fourth quarter. The Trojans though couldn’t hit another shot after Hamilton’s three with 49 seconds to play cut the Bulldog lead to 49-47 despite a handful of chances. “That’s the thing with these guys, they’ll and get all over the place, and they’ll trap, and they’ll hustle, and they’ll dive on the floor for loose balls. I just think we shoot too much The Trojans’ Clay Francisco puts a short jumper up over Byron Center’s Cameron Shooltz during the first quarter Friday in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Pressure defense gets TK ladies a couple wins by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Trojans’ ‘chaos’ press did what it’s supposed to do Friday night. It caused turnovers - a lot of turnovers. Those turnovers turned into plenty of points for Thornapple Kellogg’s varsity girls’ basketball team as it scored a 52-32 non-conference victory over visiting Byron Center. “It’s something that they like to run and when you find something your kids like to run, I mean they ask me to run chaos,” said TK head coach Jessee Bays. “If I tell them that we’re not going to run our press, they get kind of down. They love to run it and we have athletes this year that can run it, so that makes a big difference.” The Trojans really took over a couple minutes into the second quarter. The Bulldogs clipped TK’s 11-6 lead from the end of the first quarter down to 13-11 with a little run to start the second, but from that point on it was all Trojans. TK outscored the Bulldogs 32-9 in the final six minutes of the first half and the third quarter combined, a 17-5 run to close out the half followed by a 15-4 run in the third. The Trojans scored with Kelli Graham attacking the basket and Crystal Smith doing some of that and also knocking down a few jump shots. A pair of threes by Smith boosted the Trojan run in the second quarter. Smith finished with a game-high 23 points. Graham had 22 points, including a 10-of-14 performance at the free throw line. “I didn’t even know they had that many (points),” Bays said. “I thought some other people, because they played so well, that they had scored more points than they did. They are our two big guns. We need them to do that, but we need other people to score as well. I didn’t know it was that imbalanced, but I’ll take it.” Grace Possett and Erin Scheidel provided some ferocious defense, and Syd Krol had a solid night in the post for TK. Byron Center was led by Molly Babbs’ 12 points. Staci Brower added seven points for the Bulldogs. The Trojans improves to 4-3 with the win. TK is off now until Jan. 8 when it will visit Plainwell. TK girls earn a tie with the Wayland girls’ bowling team Wayland’s last throw could have given the Wildcats a win, but it didn’t total enough pins to top TK’s Sandra Gerou’s 192 in the second regular game at the Middle Villa Inn Wednesday. The Wayland and Thornapple Kellogg varsity girls’ bowling teams had to settle for a 15-15 tie. The two teams split the two Baker Games, with TK winning the first 122-118 and the Wildcats taking the second 155-151. That put the overall pin-count for the two contests at 273 each. TK fell to the Wildcats in the first regular game, 633-555, but got team points from Samantha Churchill’s 143 and the 94 from Cyhann Cross. The Trojans rallied to win the second regular game 659-599, with Churchill scoring with her 169, Gerou scoring thanks to her 192, and team points coming from Megan Reineer’s 142 and Abby Daugherty’s 79 as well. TK’s boys fell 26-4 to the Wildcats, getting their only points from a 195-158 win in the first Baker game. TK’s boys had good scores throughout the afternoon, but they were just outbowled by the Wildcats. Wayland took the second Baker game 229-157, with a final overall pin-count of 387-352 in the Bakers. Wayland took the first regular game 1,012 to 858, then the second 865 to 712. TK had a number of solid performances in the first game, including a 190 from Matt Miller, a 175 from Derek Chandler, a 174 from Jonathon Campbell, a 172 from Israel Torres and a 147 from Daniel Jousma. Call any time for Hastings Banner ads 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 Thornapple Kellogg’s Erin Scheidel (right) puts pressure on Byron Center’s Jillian Nickels during the third quarter Friday night. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Trojan guard Kelli Graham pushes past half court after a steal, while the Bulldogs’ Marisa Spetoskey gives chase, during the third quarter of their non-conference contest in Middleville Friday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Lakewood girls have as many turnovers as points by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Lakewood girls have dropped five in a row after a season opening victory. Viking varsity girls’ basketball coach Denny Frost called Friday night’s 49-24 loss at Corunna “a step back.” His girls had as many turnovers as points. “We were not ready to play. We were very sluggish, and it showed with 24 turnovers. Not sure if it was the long bus ride or the weekend before Christmas, but we just didn’t show up. I was confident that we were ready with our game preparation, but I really misread the team. We have to show up and play hard or we will not be in a game. Corunna is one of the better teams in the league, but they are not that much better then we are.” The Cavaliers led throughout, after holding the Vikings to just four points in the opening quarter. Lakewood also scored just four points in the third quarter. Corunna had a 2413 lead at the break. Corunna was led by Payton Birchmeier’s 18 points. Sam Lawcock and Lauren Ruess had six points each. Lakewood got 12 points from Emily Kutch and six from Brooke Wieland, but that pair combined for 14 turnovers as well. “We will go back to work and try to make some corrections and get better,” said Frost. The Vikings won’t have much chance to practice before its next contests, games at the Jackson Parma Western holiday tournament Thursday and Friday. Lakewood is now 1-5 overall and 0-3 in the CAAC-White. Vikings turn it over 30 times in conference loss at Corunna by Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Vikings can look forward to a lot more full-court pressure after Friday night. Lakewood’s varsity boys’ basketball team turned the ball over 30 times against the Cavaliers’ diamond press in a 75-48 Capital Area Activities Conference White Division loss at Corunna High School Friday. “We just turned the ball over left and right,” said Lakewood head coach Wayne Piercefield. “They pressed, like we knew they were going to. We knew exactly what they were going to do, and we for some reason kept throwing it to the other team. Then, it snowballed from there.” The Cavaliers built a 20-13 lead in the opening quarter. They scored at least 20 points in each of the first three quarters, adding 22 points in the second and 23 in the third. The Vikings had the Cavalier lead down to three points at one point in the second quarter, but that’s when the snowball really got rolling. Corunna pushed its lead back up to 17 points by the break. Corunna then outscored the Vikings 23-7 in the third quarter. M.J. Myles led Corunna with 21 points. Mikhail Myles had 17 points and Josh Fattal had 15. Lakewood got 13 points from Daniel Sauers, 12 from Colin O’Mara and eight from Alex Caudy. Piercefield said he was pleased with Sauers’ play off the bench against the Cavalier pressure, and that he was happy to see Caudy show off his athleticism in the contest. Lakewood will play in the holiday tournament hosted by Jackson Parma Western this Thursday and Friday. They’ll open play in the tournament Thursday against Concord at 4:30 p.m. If the Vikings win that game, they’ll play at 7:30 Friday night. If they fall to Concord, the Vikings will play Friday at 4:30 p.m. The Vikings are now 2-3 overall and 1-2 in the CAAC-White. �Page 14 — Thursday, December 27, 2012 — The Hastings Banner TOP STORIES, continued from page 1 degrees Aug. 3. So far, for the 2012-13 winter, the area has seen only 1 1/2 inches of snow. That includes two-tenths of an inch in October, none in November and one and a half inches in December. As the summer drought lingered here, farmers and consumers alike were concerned over the possible fallout of the dry weather on crops and food prices. Even the arrival of the Barry County Fair, which annually tends to bring at least one epic storm, remained dry and brown due to dead grass. However, the rains started in late July and picked up in early August, just in time to save most of this year’s field crops, which were slightly below average. Tree fruits, however, were nearly non-existent in the state. Hot temperatures in March caused buds on fruit trees to blossom, only to be killed by normal below-freezing temperatures in April. 6. Bradford White expansion and opening of International Technical Excellence Center Bradford White’s expansion of its manufacturing site in Middleville and the opening of the International Technical Excellence Center put Barry County’s leading employer on the Top 10 list. Gov. Rick Snyder visited Middleville for the grand opening of the iTEC center Nov. 30. “This is a great made-in-Michigan story — it’s a leading edge company,” said Snyder. Snyder toured the facility, along with township and village officials. The center will host tradesmen, companies and distributors from around the world to train and learn about the Bradford White water heaters and systems. While that state-of-the-art facility is completed, work continues on expansion of the manufacturing site. Bradford White Executive Vice President and General Manager Eric Lannes calls it “the largest single change we’ve ever done.” The additional 99,000 square feet and extra 117 parking space for trucks and trailers involved rezoning of several residential lots for the industrial site. Lannes said the expansion is needed for Bradford White to comply with new federal regulations governing how water heaters are made and distributed. The new regulations must be met by April 2015. 7. Animal care issues lead to restructuring, hiring of animal shelter director Few issues proved more frustrating and political than those revolving around the care of animals in Barry County in 2012. In what the Banner described as long-simmering acrimony, the Barry County Board of A new sewer line was critical to the Michigan Avenue Bridge construction. After the old one was removed, the new one was laid and progress picked up speed. Commissioners voted 5-3 on June 19 to recommend an ordinance amendment that reassigned animal control responsibilities and duties from the county sheriff’s department to a newly created department to be led by a director who would report to the county board. One week later, Commissioner Ben Geiger, citing projected 2012 budget issues, changed his vote and the proposal failed on a 4-4 vote. The double take outraged many in the community and even some commissioners like Joe Lyons who referred to “different factions” and the money concern as nothing more than a cop-out. The political impasse was characterized by some as having started between Commissioner Robert Houtman and County Sheriff Dar Leaf who disagreed on with whom authority for animal control should lie. Houtman addressed Leaf at a June 26 meeting, saying, “this is not a personal vendetta against you, Dar. This is about doing what the community asked for and paid for 12 years ago,” when it funded a new animal shelter building to be staffed by volunteers who had been displaced by Leaf. Commission Chair Craig Stolsonburg fashioned a compromise of sorts with a motion to split responsibilities with the sheriff’s department retaining the duties of animal control with animal shelter and care to be the responsibility of a newly created department to be led by a director reporting to the commission. The motion was approved, 8-0. Nov. 27, the county board recommended the hiring of Diana Newman of Battle Creek as its new animal shelter director. 8. First of three Terpening cases decided and sentenced Troopers and detectives from Michigan State Police Hastings Post arrested Michael Terpening on criminal sexual conduct charges on Aug. 24, 2011. The charges involves multiple teen victims. Terpening, a then 32-yearold Bellevue man, is the former director of Earth Services Youth Home. Terpening was bound over on 12 sex-related charges. On Dec. 27, 2011, a 19-year-old key witness recanted his testimony against Terpening and, on Feb. 2, Assistant Prosecutor Jessica Payne filed a motion for a gag order. Payne told the court as soon as the case was charged, statements started to be made about the victims in the criminal sexual conduct cases. On Friday Feb. 10, the case took a stunning turn when a representative from the Michigan Attorney General’s Office stepped in to take over the Terpening cases, citing “some sort of conflict of interest for the Barry County Prosecutor’s Office.” Assistant AG Angela Povilaitis argued Terpening broke bond when he attended a party on March 17 with one of the victims and minors present and was prohibited from having contact with either. On August 24, District Court Judge Michael Schipper made it clear Terpening was not to have any contact with any named persons in the cases. Povilaitis was again in Barry County Circuit Court on June 22 to present, on the record, a plea deal to the defendant to which the defense did not respond. Terpening’s trial on the twelve CSC charges began on Oct. 22. Jurors found Terpening guilty on eight of 12 criminal sexual conduct counts after a 10day trial. Povilaitis won the case by proving to the jury, beyond a reasonable doubt, that Terpening had indeed committed the acts of which he was accused. Attorney Thomas Schaeffer and co-counsel Joseph Eldred represented the defendant by attempting to poke sufficient holes in the prosecution’s case. The defense diligently combined inconsistencies in witness memories, blurred event timelines, and tarnished victim histories to discredit testimony and weave doubt into the minds of the jury. Friends and family of convicted sex criminal Michael Terpening gathered in Barry County Circuit Court on Dec. 13 to hear McDowell pronounce a 10 to 15 year sentence on the 33-year-old Bellevue man. Six other charges on Terpening garnered 66-day sentences and he has received credit for 66 days served. All the sentences are to be served concurrently. He is eligible for parole in 10 years. Looking forward, Terpening will take this case to the Michigan Court of Appeals. He also faces another trial in late winter for an insurance fraud charge, and yet another trial in early spring for a thirteenth criminal sexual conduct charge. These cases have been assigned to a special prosecutor from the Kent County Prosecutor’s office and not the Michigan Attorney General’s Office. 9. New programs launched within Maple Valley Schools this year have increased enrollment and may be a catalyst to open the recently closed Maplewood School in Vermontville. Pathways Academy is a virtual school that offers on-site mentoring to non-traditional students, including homeschoolers, those transitioning from the classroom to online and adult students, including inmates. “This is not a one-size-fits-all [program]” said Pathways Academy Director Kristine Stewart. “We will be asking ‘How do we get you to the diploma?’” The current facility housing Pathways in the administration offices is too small, and evening hours have been added. The growing enrollment has doubled from the original goal of 40 earlier in the year to more than 100. Maple Valley Academy, the second program offered in the district, combines kindergarten and first graders in a classroom that focuses on the individual, and students move at their own paces. The philosophy is based on the principles in the book Delivering on the Promise — The Education Revolution. Maple Valley Academy is expected to incorporate higher grade levels and as a result is anticipated to outgrow its current home at Fuller Street Elementary in Nashville. 10. Fatal virus spreads among deer In early September, Barry County residents began calling wildlife authorities about the alarming number of dead deer found around local ponds, creeks and lakes. The deer were victims of epizootic hemorrhagic disease, a virus transmitted from deer to deer by a biting fly called a midge. The midge is killed by a heavy frost. “The frost should have put an end to the EHD cycle for this year,” said DNR Biologist Sara Schaefer in October. “Reports have slowed down, and many of the deer hunters and farmers are coming upon dead deer as they are out doing other things. The carcasses are well decomposed. So far, the Department of Public Health has not been concerned about the carcasses.” As of Oct. 8, Ionia County still led the state in reported EHD cases in whitetail deer, at 2,077. Kent County followed with 1,073, and Barry County had nearly 913 reported cases. The state total as of Oct. 8 was 8,671, according to the state’s emerging diseases website. EHD had been reported in 33 of Michigan’s 83 counties. Eric Pessel, director of environmental health services for the Barry-Eaton District Health Department, said the virus is not communicable and does not spread to humans. He said the decaying carcasses present no danger to the public as a whole, even though many deer are found dead in one location. Pessell said the deer are not dying in public places, and they are more likely to die in rural areas on larger open tracts of land. Deer die-offs have been identified and recorded as EHD since 1955. Written reports of die-offs date back to the 1890s. Additional Michigan die-offs attributed to EHD occurred in Michigan in white-tailed deer in 1974, 2006, 2008, 2009 and 2010. All documented outbreaks of EHD have occurred from August to October and ceased abruptly with the onset of frost. 2013 RULES: 1. Parent(s) must be resident(s) of Barry County for at least six (6) months of 2012. 2. Parent(s) must notify The Hastings Banner by calling 945-9554 within 48 hours of birth. 3. Exact date and time of birth must be verified in writing by attending physician or midwife as being the first baby in 2012 born in Barry County. 4. Gifts must be claimed within 90 days with certification letter from the Hastings Banner. PRINTING PLUS BARLOW FLORIST & BARLOW CHRISTIAN BOOKSTORE Special Photo Package 109 W. State., Hastings Phone 945-5029 1351 N. M-43 Hwy., Hastings Phone 945-9554 • 945-9105 2 8x10, 2 5x7, 12 4x6 McDONALD’S 1215 W. State., Hastings Phone 948-8233 $25.00 Gift Card BOSLEY PHARMACY 118 S. Jefferson., Hastings Phone 945-3429 Gift Certificate Vaporizer PENN-NOCK GIFT SHOP WOMEN’S HEALTH FIRST, PC Located on the main floor of Pennock Hospital 1108 W. State St., Ste. 3 Phone 945-8080 • Fax: 945-8081 1009 W. Green St., Hastings $25 Gift Certificate (Ad space provided by J-Ad Graphics) Board Certified in Gynecology & Obstetrics Laura M. Doherty, M.D. • Laura J. Kota, M.D. $100 Gift Certificate 77573337 � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Hastings Banner Subject The topic of the resource Newspaper.HastingsBanner Description An account of the resource <strong>The Hastings Public Library wishes to thank Smith Imaging of Rockford, MI for their work digitizing the Hastings Banner.</strong><br /><br /><strong>The Library also wishes to thank all of the community members who donated money to support our digitizing efforts.<br /><br />The Banner Overview:</strong><br />The Hastings Banner newspaper has been published in Hastings, Michigan since 1856. The following history highlights are taken from Richard Cook's history as published in the 1956 Centennial Edition of The Hastings Banner, and recapped by Esther Walton in her From Time to Time column in The Banner dated April 12, 1984.<br /><br /><strong>Links to online copies of the paper follow the history section.<br /></strong><strong><br /><br /><br />Searching the paper:<br /></strong>The Banner, and all other PDF files on this history portal, are fully searchable. To search:<br /><ol><li>Click on the magnifying glass search icon in the upper right.</li> <li>Enter your search term(s) in the simple search box and press Enter or click on Search.</li> <li>Any PDF file on the site that contains your term(s) should be listed. Do not use the Advanced Search.</li> </ol><strong>See <a href="https://www.barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/676/How_To_Use_Online_Newspapers_8x11.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">How to Use Online Newspapers</a> for more information about using and searching online newspapers.</strong><br /><br />-----------------------<br /><strong>The Banner History</strong>:<br />C.S. Burton &amp; Co. were listed as the proprietors of the "Republican Banner", which first appeared here on May 1, 1856, with Dr. C. S. Burton as the publisher and Norman Bailey as editor.<br /><br />Publication office was on the second floor of the Rower Block, whose address was given as "corner of State and Church"; which corner was not specified.<br /><br />The objective of this publication was to win support for the newly created Republican party and thus counteract the influence of the Barry County Pioneer, a Democratic journal that had been published here since 1851. No copies of the first three issues of The Banner were saved.<br /><br />Make-up on the first journal corresponded with a pattern typical of most local journals then published. Page one contained a few columns of advertising, fiction (often a continued story), and a short feature of no particular news value. Page one was the "literary" page.<br /><br />Page two contained the editorial barbs, along with state news, political articles, Washington items and news of the national and territorial giovernments. Page three contained a few items of local news, sandwiched inbetween the local and foreign news.<br /><br />Page four was usually solid with advertising and as such was the editor's "bread and butter" page....Locally it was the pattern until the early 1880s.<br /><br />Several changes in ownership and management occurred during the first two years of publication, with J. M. Nevins taking over ownership interests on July 16, 1857. With the issue of May 7, 1862, "The Republican Banner" became "The Hastings Banner". Editor Nevins thought the village had developed sufficiently during the past several years to merit this recognition.<br /><br />Another major change in the management of The Banner came when Nevins sold the newspaper to George M. Dewey of Niles on March 14, 1866, who then took over as editor and publisher. Dewey, an ardent Republican and somewhat of a crusader, gave considerable space to editorial comment and party affairs and also directed pointed paragraphs against the saloons and local traffic in liquor. Dewey was the grandfather of Thomas E. Dewey, Republican presidential nominee in 1944 and 1948. Editor Dewey on May 4, 1870 changed the format (and name) of the paper to "Hastings Republican Banner". <br /><br />A fire in December 1883 burned The Banner plant (located in the middle of the block on the north side of State St. across from the courthouse). Files and back issues from August 1880 to December 1883 and the January 4, 1884 issues are missing.<br /><br />The Banner was purchased by Marshall L. Cook and George Bower on July 21, 1880. They changed the name to "The Hastings Banner". M. L. Cook soon became the sole owner and remained so until July 7, 1887 when Albert Nishern (M. L.'s brother-in-law) joined him. Albert Nishern sold his interest on November 6, 1889 to William Cook (M. L.'s younger brother).<br /><br />The Cook brothers partnership held together (56 years) ... Richard Cook followed his father into the newspaper business, and Richard's son William joined him. So the Cook family ownership continued for 85 years, from 1880 to 1974, when Richard and William sold the paper to High Fullerton. J-Ad Graphics became the owners of "The Hastings Banner" in August of 1981. Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Newspaper Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Hastings Banner Published 2012 Subject The topic of the resource Newspaper.HastingsBanner Type The nature or genre of the resource PDF Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newspaper Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource varies within year published Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/NoC-NC/1.0/ Rights Holder A person or organization owning or managing rights over the resource. Hastings Public Library and J-Ad Graphics Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available J-Ad Graphics Date Accepted Date of acceptance of the resource. Examples of resources to which a Date Accepted may be relevant are a thesis (accepted by a university department) or an article (accepted by a journal). ongoing Description An account of the resource Hastings Banner Published 2012. Specific issues may be incomplete or missing. Note some newspaper files are very large and may take some time to download.